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New Eden 25

The Aftermath of War (Ghost and Ladia)

(was a day of great honor and celebration for many. The streets were lined with cheering peasants and nobles alike as the parade of soldiers marched through the city, proud and almost drunk on their victory, towards the castle. Behind them walked a sorry mess of exhausted prisoners; former citizens of the enemy. Their clothes were all torn and their bodies covered in the mud and grime that had accumulated during the long and humiliating journey. Not surprisingly, cheers turns to jeers as they came into view. Children threw rotten food at them and adults called out all manner of insults. Every so often a soldier would strike one of them, to the enthusiastic pleasure of the crowd. Soon enough they reached the castle and one girl in particular was pulled out from the mass of defeated dirt-clad bodies. She groaned in pain as she was dragged forcefully up the steps by two men, into an elaborately decorated Hall, filled with gilded portraits and silk wall hangings. At the far end were two men, one of whom was clearly King and her new Master, for he bore a fine crown of gold and diamonds on his head. He looked intriguingly at her as she was thrown at his feet and the two men who had dragged her in fell to their knees." Your Majesties, we present you this beauty, snatched from the Barbarian's razed kingdom, as congratulations of Your fine victory," one of them said. The King smirked as he reached down to lift her chin, forcing her gaze up to his. "What is your name, barbarian?" he asked with a venomous tongue. The young woman's dark eyes were wide with fear as she saw him through the black hair that fell over her face. The color drained from her already pale skin as she opened her mouth to answer, her voice trembling as she did so. "My name is Alessia, your Highness," she murmured in frightened tones. The King released her chin as though he had just discovered her to be a leper and turned abruptly away. "The Barbarian's daughter, eh?" he asked no one in particular as he sat back on his throne. "I have no use for such a worthless gift. Take her away and put her and her 'people' to death," he declared cruelly. Alessia began to weep piteously, but the King ignored her and waved the soldiers away. (" Wait, Father!" The other man present by the King's side suddenly blurted out, his eyes looking at the utter ruin of the beauty before him. Arthur, the Prince of the Kingdom, knew not of the cruelty of his father, holding onto the compassion his now deceased mother taught him in his younger days. He was a warrior, a youth seasoned in combat, and he never once backed away from his beliefs of honor and compassion. His voice, though by no means filled with authority as his father, it did well to prevent the two guards by her from going any step further. A moment of silence fell onto the Hall, as Arthur moved from the side of his father, to kneel in front of him with apparent plea." Father, the war already endured many deaths, and our people need to be seen as liberators, not killers. If we were to kill her and her ilk, it would only provide other kingdoms with the fear of their demise, and they would band together against our forces. Such a thing would do us no good." He explained, though in his mind, it was a mere excuse for lesser deaths. His father was already contemplating on the words of his son, though it was clear he still wished to kill these barbarians." Even so, her ilk would only aggravate the population. And her presence, once known to the people, would only bring question as to why she is still alive." He replied, the King's eyes looking onto his son. Arthur did not shrink back, however, not due to having no fear, but keeping to his beliefs." Then let her stay by me and serve me as a servant. Her people, we can let them either roam the lands, or if they wish to take the risk, stay and work in the mines. No one would know of their fates, and the people from other Kingdoms would not band together against us, not without proper reasoning." Arthur eyed his father, and for a moment, it would seem his persuasion failed. In the end, his father, the King, merely waved him away, though he nodded and gave him a bitter smile." Do as my son says." With more than a reluctant sigh escaping both guards, they left the prisoner alone, going off to no doubt give new orders to the others. Arthur approached the girl, kneeling in front of her as he lifted her chin, looking back with his dark brown eyes." Come now, it is best if no one knew of what happened here today. Follow me back to my quarters." His voice was soft, almost lost of his authoritative tone, as he stood up and held a hand to her, awaiting her as his father returned into the back of the throne room, though not without eyeing his son suspiciously. The sound of another voice was as much a surprise to Alessia as the words that were spoken. Looking up she saw who must surely be Prince Arthur, the King's only son, pleading on her behalf for her life. The whole scene before her seemed so surreal that she daren't believe it; even as the guards drew away from her, she waited to learn that this was some cruel trick. Her eyes, dark, wide and fearful, raised to meet those of her apparent savior and with some seconds' hesitation her slender hand rested in his, and she accepted his help to stand." Prince Arthur, know that I am grateful for your mercy," she muttered uncertainly, keeping her eyes downcast as she followed him out of the grand Hall, ignoring the smirks and snickers of the guards they passed. The young woman daresn't look at her surroundings as she followed closely on his heels. Under her tired and aching feet she felt the cold stone of the castle floor and couldn't help but let out a suppressed sob as it drew to her mind, so vividly, the memory of all that she'd had and lost. She, Alessia, had been a Princess. The only daughter of a King. She had loved the feel of the cold stone of her Father's castle, so much so that she'd frequently insisted on going barefoot, much to her Mother's horror. And now? Her mother and father had both died horrific deaths, the castle she had called her beloved home was in ruins, and she was a servant, reduced to obeying orders. Who knew what this Prince, with his outwardly gallant and chivalrous appearance, would be like behind closed doors? Never in her life had she known so much intense fear. He knew that tone from her voice. It was fear. Fear of not only him, but of what might happen to her. Arthur could feel the intense fear building within her, even as they walked away from the hall into his quarters within the castle. He expected himself to be the same if a fate like this ever befell on him, the thought of death would freeze him in a fear frenzy. But then, even he knew his time was not yet to come. With his sword sheathed to his waist, he knew that no one would touch her, especially if they knew that she was under him. It was protection that he granted to her, protection from the gruesome world within these walls." Don't be only grateful for my mercy, but for my father's." He whispered silently to her, though with a slight disdain in his tone. It was clear how he viewed the world was in contrast to his father, and with the death of his mother, it only fueled to turn him into much savage ruler." I am sorry for what happened to your Kingdom. My father had no right calling you nor your kin a barbarian. Hopefully, you can forgive for the slight." He replied as he opened a grand door, opening it to a room filled with the simplest of means. Aside from the large bed placed in the middle of the room, nothing much filled it but for a desk and a chair by the eastern windows, and training gears as well as a couple of swords plus a bow and arrows placed by the western wall. With only a comfortable sofa placed in front of the large bed that has a small table with a bowl of fruits and a jug of cold water on top of it, it was clear that Arthur wasn't known to be fanciful, preferring to keep things simple as it is. There were no guards, neither here nor the outside of his door." Please, make yourself at home, Princess Alessia, and eat or drink. I know the journey has been. Rough on you." He added as he closed the door behind them, leaving them to their own devices. Alessia jumped slightly as the door closed, cautiously watching the prince. She glanced briefly around the room and spotted the table, with the bowl of fruit and pitcher of water, before returning her gaze to him, giving an uncertain curtsy." I do not understand your Highness. Is it a custom here, to invite one's servants to dine and take rest in one's own chambers?" she asked curiously. She made no comment on the insults he mentioned; indeed she considered herself fortunate that she had not suffered worse. She had fully expected death, or perhaps even torture, when she had been found and taken. Certainly her beauty had attracted a torture of a unique kind during the cruel journey; more than one soldier had wished to sample her, and it was only because the General decided to offer her up to the King that they had been stopped from doing so. Had she made her identity known then, she had no doubt in her mind that she would have been taken by each one. What she had not anticipated was for a Prince to dare defy his own father and bargain for her life, and take her in to serve him. Certainly she had never expected the compassion now being shown to her. She did not want to appear ungrateful, but at the same time, she could not be sure that his motives were pure. Still she waited to discover that all this was a way to trick her onto the Executioner's block." Forgive my impertinence. I must confess I had long since given up any hope of survival. Your Highness' kindness is unexpected," she murmured. Arthur merely gave her a solemn smile, looking away as she spoke. It was clear that she had expected death, but knowing his father, such a thing wouldn't be enough for an enemy Kingdom. No, he would torture her first, ensuring his soldiers as well as any citizens of his kingdom enjoy her first, taking time, a long time before she would eventually get close to the Executioner's block. And even that, there would only be agonizing shame for her before she could even come close to death. Under his mother's teachings, that was something he couldn't condone, and he would rather save her than have such a dark and painful thing happening to her." It isn't. But nonetheless, you are a Princess, and I have to treat you as such. I am not like my father, who enjoys death. I am my own man, and for saving your life, I hope you don't ask my reason as to why I did such a thing." He explained, as he motioned her to take a seat on the sofa. Placing his sword by the training gears by the western walls, Arthur knew in his mind that whatever he did with her now would be tracked by his father. He has long grown wary of his father's look on him, and maybe it made him grow more cautious. It was one of the reason why he didn't wish any guards in his quarters." Please, do not fear me. I am not here to harm you, nor would I ever intend to." He commented to her softly, before walking towards the window, taking in the scenery that he enjoys, the bustling city going around as if nothing was happening, and across the walls, forest bountiful with green. It made him smile, relaxing his mind if not for the moment. Alessia was stunned into silence for a few seconds, watching him as he walked over to the windows. Her feet ached, and her exhausted body screamed for rest, and yet instead of sitting, she took a few steps closer to him." Forgive me your Highness, but I would hope your reasons require no explanation. Even so I am surprised that you extended your chivalry to one such as I. You have every reason to hate and despise myself and all I represent; the nation your armies have just defeated. My fate should be of no consideration to you, and yet almost in defiance of the idea you have spared my life, and saved my people from a destiny I daren't even contemplate. You have my sincere gratitude, and upon my word I will not ask your reasons unless you permit it," she said graciously. Once again she curtsied, but this time it was more certain, more regal. Truly, it was the sort of curtsy a Princess would be expected to give if greeting a foreign ambassador, and indeed Prince Arthur was, in a way. Standing straight again, she braved a few more steps towards him. "I will ask this, however. Why do you say you must treat me as a Princess, when I am one no longer? I have no crown to inherit, no people to lead. And you yourself described my new title as that of 'servant', only minutes ago. If I am to successfully navigate the politics your Highness has taken advantage of to spare my life, I must understand them," she pointed out. Arthur turned to see her close to him, surprisingly so seeing her fear suddenly disappeared and replaced by a much more calm demeanor. It was a slight shock to see that, though he didn't say anything of it. Instead, he gave her a smile of assurance, his mind even wondering why exactly would he treat the enemy as such. He would have blamed it on his Mother's teachings, but that was not it. He always had this sort of outlook in life, one that doesn't condemn another just because they are of different beliefs with him. Furthermore, he knew not of what they are, but nonetheless he treated them with respect no matter the cause or what they have done. It has just been how he was." Our nations were at war, but now that the war is over, there is no need for any more brutalities between us. I would have wished our war didn't end with the total destruction of your people, but alas, my father sees otherwise. Though you have no crown or people to lead, you are still the last bloodline of your royal family. Your blood is enough for me to treat you as a Princess. Your title as 'servant' is but only a title for my father's. Amusement. I doubted he would accept my proposal if I have said otherwise. As my 'servant', you are now protected against any others that would have done many horrible things to you. That is why I state it as such. I would not condone any that assaults those with me, and they know of it." He explained with a smile, settling his eyes on her with a relaxed look. Alessia nodded slowly, taking in what he said. "Your Highness is very wise," she commented quietly. Now that her fear was gradually evaporating, her tone was much calmer, her voice and manner soft and gentle. For a moment she glanced past him, to the view out the window and once more a pang of homesickness crossed her heart, but it was gone as quickly as it came, and she returned her attention to her host." Forgive me; is there anywhere I might bathe and find a clean dress? I am weary, but I will not be able to rest with this dirt caked onto my skin," she queried. Arthur gave her a small bow, accepting her compliment with a smile. It was clear she finally calmed down around his presence, and that was something he wished for. He didn't want her to keep on doubting him on a fact that he was the King's son. Not at all feeling slighted for her being such, he walked towards the door, opening it slightly, peeking out to find one of the other servants." Felicia, find some clothes for Alessia to wear. She should be around your size, so pick one that is decent and bring it here." He called out to her, who immediately bowed to him and quickly went her way to find some clothes. Closing the door, he turned to her, before pointing to her to a connected room from his." You could use my bathroom for your own. As for clothes, Felicia would bring it to you once you are done." He politely stated, finally taking off his armor and chain mail and putting it aside, feeling a burden escaping his body. Grateful, Alessia stepped into the small side-room, drawing a divider across for modesty, and poured herself a bath. As the enormous tub was filled, she slowly stepped in, closing her eyes and letting out a relaxed sigh as the warm water washed over her, and she began slowly scrubbing away the weeks of mud and grime on her skin and in her hair. By the time she was clean, the girl Felicia had returned with a gown of Ivory and blue. Alessia accepted the garment gratefully and allowed Felicia to help her dress and comb her hair. Finally, when she was presentable she waved the girl away and, with a deep breath, stepped back into Arthur's room. "Your Highness?" she called out to him. "Forgive me, but if the King your father is to believe your charade of my being here to serve you, then surely I must have duties of one sort or another and the accommodations of a servant?" As soon as she said it, she realized her words might seem ungrateful. "Please do not misunderstand me; I am wholeheartedly grateful and indebted to you for your mercy and the kindness you have shown, but I fear the consequences if the King realizes I am to live as a personal guest, and not as a servant, as you suggested. He only spared my life to see me humiliated thus. Do you not fear his wrath?" she continued gently. By the time Alessia was out of the room, Arthur already took his seat by his desk, his body aching from the constant standing beside his father. It didn't take as long as he would expect of her before she was out, Felicia already scrambling out of his room. Her words struck true. If ever the King was to believe that she was here for humiliation, he would have to assign her duties that carry out such a feeling. However, he knew what was in his father's mind, and when he asked for her to be his servant, it was the first time he ever did that. Besides, he has already feigned to him that he was the same as him, though how long that would last, he didn't know." You are mistaken, Princess. Although it would seem that my father would be paranoid whether how I would be treating you, it is the first that I have asked him for a servant, and he would expect me to be lost in what I would do. Not to say that he would forgive me if I treated you anything other than humiliation, but as long as he doesn't find out how I treat you, it would not be a problem. But you are right, you would need the accommodations of a servant, though I hope you forgive me for the slight." His mind wondered for a moment, wondering if it was wise to do such a thing. His father has changed into such a violent man, that he became unpredictable. But if she stayed by him continuously, it would prove to be dangerous as she stated." I will get a room that is close to my quarters for you to stay in. As for your duties, I believe staying within the confines on my room would be enough. Though it isn't something you would be used to doing, cleaning up after my mess would for now suffice. At least if my father were to come, it would seem that a princess being forced to clean up a mess of his son would provide enough of a pretense." He eyed her, hoping that at least she wouldn't feel that he was insulting her. Alessia nodded. It did not sound pleasant, but at least, to the eyes of any spies the King might keep, it would give the appearance of the son behaving as expected. "I know this will be unpleasant to both of us, but if I err in those duties or forget my place, you will have to give a show of discipline, as would be suffered the same by any other servant. And I would need to give the appearance of still being humble and frightened of you," she explained. "Does your Highness think he can keep up such a charade?" Arthur forced a tight smile to his lips. She was right, it seems that to ensure her safety, he would have to do things that was against his beliefs. His father would ensure to her demise if he did otherwise." You are right, Princess. I shall do as such if and when the time comes, though I would never feel good about myself after such a charade." He explained with a sigh, before taking another look outside the window, his mind calculating just how far he would go in this little game between his father, himself and her. Alessia closed her eyes briefly. "It will not be easy, I know, but I know all too well the need to be careful," she murmured. Then, with a heavy sigh, she walked over to the window, staring out, seemingly lost in her own world as she reflected on all that had happened. Only a few short days prior, she, Alessia, had been free. She'd had a home, a loving family, and a position in life that commanded respect. And now? Her parents were dead and her home in ruins. Her brother was missing, presumably also dead, and she was little more than someone's chattel. It was fortunate for her that her 'owner', for want of a better word, was more interested in assuring her safety than using her, but still it was a distressing circumstance. She was broken out of her reverie by a knock at the door. Somewhat startled, she glanced a moment at Arthur before going to answer it, taking the presumption that it would be expected for a servant to answer rather than the Prince himself. It was to her surprise that she noticed the timid Felicia there." Excuse me your Highness," she began, curtsying quickly, "but the King has summoned you for a private audience at once." Arthur enjoyed the view, as he always had when his mother fell ill before her demise. He always believed that the view was the same view before his father turned tyrannical. Though not knowing why exactly he turned as such, nonetheless, as his mother told him, he had to oblige the King after all. His mind was still twirling over the fact of the change of his father before the sudden knock on his door. His thoughts lost, he turned and saw Alessia already opening the door for Felicia to come in." The King? What does he want now?" He feigned a slightly annoyed voice to show he wasn't enjoying the fact being called on randomly, like a pompous prince. However, he managed to give a look of worry to the princess, feeling slightly cautious of whether they were caught on in their act. With a sigh, he walked past her, signalling the servant girl to follow him. She did obligingly, closing the door behind her as he walked towards his father's quarters, though not without looking back to the closed door of his room, feeling a slightly uneasy feeling. Alessia caught the look Arthur gave her and subtly shook her head, silently warning him not to give the game away. As soon as Felicia had closed the door she turned back into the room, deciding that she might as well get started on her 'duties', in case anyone should visit the Prince's chambers before he returned, and set to the task of collecting various garments and belongings that had been strewn on the floor. She could not, however, drown out her own overwhelming thoughts and emotions, and within a mere minute had collapsed to her knees, muffled sobs escaping her throat. As tears flooded her eyes and fell in rapid succession down her cheeks, she could not help but long for her beloved father, who had always comforted her when upset. So absorbed in her own distress, she failed to notice the sound of footsteps outside the door. If she had, she might have realized that it was too soon for Arthur to have returned, and that something strange was going on. As it was, the sounds didn't even register to her. What Arthur missed as he walked towards his father room was a shadowy figure lurking in one of the rooms. As soon as the prince walked past him and away from his own quarters, he showed himself, face covered with a cloth so that only his eyes could be seen. Wearing all black clothing, it was clear he wasn't one of the servants within the house. With a smirk hidden beneath the cloth, he walked towards the quarters of the prince, slowly opening it, trying not to make it creak too obviously. Thankfully, his quarry still did not notice his presence. He silently walked towards her, slowly trying to close the distance as he took out a short knife. He could hear sobs, muffled ones, and knew that this person was crying. As to what it was, he didn't know, but he didn't say a word of it. After all, the King wanted her dead, and he had to only comply to his word. Whoever this person that the King wanted dead, he had no say in her survival or whatnot. Instead, he took one last step, placing him directly behind her. He was no longer a prince, but a soldier after all. All he had to do was kill this one person. Without any warning, he grabbed onto her neck with his arm, trying to pull the knife close to her. If she was to die, he wanted her to look into the eyes of her killer. He turned her around, spinning her wildly to face him. Alessia let out a startled shriek as she was grabbed and spun around, her eyes widening in terror as she saw the knife. "No! No, please!" she cried, clearly frightened as she struggled to push the arm holding the knife away from her, but he was far too strong. There was something vaguely familiar about the knife, but Alessia was too focused on trying to break free from her attacker to notice anything other than its proximity to her skin. Finally, she managed to free herself, pulling the fabric away from his face as she did so, and stumbled back, picking up one of Arthur's swords as she did so. But Alessia was not a very good swordsman, and anyone who knew her also knew this. She could not hold the long blade still and had a habit of flourishing it in order to keep her grip balanced; a habit well known to almost everyone she knew. Still, the frightened girl stood her ground, her back pressed firmly against the wall and the tip of the blade aimed at the man, but her tears obscured her vision and she could not see him clearly. It was working easily for him. He managed to easily bring her into his control. But she did a surprising move, tearing away the fabric on his face, letting her look at her assailant as clear as day. He didn't care, though, not attempting to cover up, instead approaching her again. The blade she carried was something she clearly couldn't utilize with ease, and it made his job easier. Yet. Yet when she held onto the blade, it reminded him of somebody. It was clear this woman was no swordsman, but her actions while carrying the blade reminded him of somebody from home. It was close to impossible. Everyone from home was dead, every one of his family was dead. It couldn't be her." Alessia?" His voice pierced through the sobbing cries of hers, putting his knife down as he took the time to truly study her face. It shouldn't be possible, yet here she stands, his very own sister still alive and somewhat well. Gerald could barely believe that she survived, and now was here under the King. He put his hands up, trying to calm her down." Alessia! It's me, your brother, Gerald!" Alessia froze when she heard the voice. It couldn't be... Not a trace of Gerald had been seen or heard for almost two years. She had long since given up any hope that he might still be alive." Gerald? But how..." she whispered as her arm lowered, the heavy blade falling from her grip with a heavy clunk. She took a few hesitant steps toward him, hardly daring to believe her eyes." I thought you were dead," she confessed in a cautious whisper as she embraced him. "But where have you been? And why did you try to kill me?" she asked, her eyes wide with innocent curiosity. Gerald eyed her with clear shock, even as he could feel her embrace on him. For two years, he was gone from his family, and in that two years, he heard the news of their recent demise. He even thought that every single one of them was killing, his sister included. Yet, here she stands, and he was the one about to kill her. He held onto her tight, taking a moment to let the feeling sink in." I. I managed to survive and nursed back to health by someone within this Kingdom. After a year or so of recovery, I thought the best way was to serve this King, especially after I heard that Mother and Father thought I was dead. I didn't want to have any sort of arguments over us, so I thought the best way to serve them was to fade away." He explained, though at that moment, he pulled her back, looking into her eyes. It was clear that their parents are dead, that much he could tell, but if he was sent to kill her, that means the King was actually planning assassination." It is not safe here! The King, he sent me here to kill you! He-"Before anything else could be said, the door creaked open, and Arthur returned from his audience with his father, though he looked more rush than anything." You!" Gerald shouted, putting Alessia behind him as he faced the Prince, believing that he was part of the scheme all along. His sword came up in defense, eyes narrowed to Arthur." What are you doing here? Who in the world are you?!" Arthur's voice hid no anger, shocked at the sight of both an intruder in his room and the danger that seemingly could be seen with Alessia's life. Alessia gasped at the revelation that the King had ordered the attempt on her life. Before she could respond, though, the door opened and Gerald had thrown her behind himself, drawing his sword and pointing very firmly at Arthur." Gerald, don't!" she shouted in alarm, moving to stand in front of him, placing her hand on his arm and looking up at him with a pleading expression." Didn't you hear me, Alessia? It was ordered by the King himself! This man is his son and probably in on it," he declared harshly, trying to push her out of his way. Alessia stood her ground, however. "It is thanks to Prince Arthur that I am still alive, Gerald. Please, put your blade away. For me," she pleaded urgently. However, Gerald ignored her." You've known this man for how long? A couple of hours at most. Trust me, he is his father's son," he replied, never taking his eyes off of Arthur. "StanddownAlessia, for your own safety," he instructed firmly. Alessia sighed. She knew there would be no persuading him; his mind was made up. He considered Arthur a threat and would treat him as such. Turning around, she addressed Arthur instead." Your Highness, please, stay your blade. There is no threat here, only a misunderstanding," she murmured gently. In truth, Arthur would have instantly reached for his sword by the door as soon as he saw another within his quarters. He was a warrior, after all, and it was basic instinct that he would have done so. He had ordered specifically that no one was to enter his room unless stated otherwise to everyone within the confines of the castle, and he ensured he played on that order. So if there was another person within his quarters, it only made him be on the defensive. Yet. Alessia assured him that this man was no threat. Whoever he was, it was clear that he knew Alessia. A friend, maybe? He didn't know, and at the time, he couldn't care. But his words struck him hard. So, his father has done it against his wish. He actually ordered an assassin to kill Alessia, feeling she was a threat to him. Arthur couldn't believe that he would have done it behind his back. Maybe his charade was starting to fall apart after all. Though tempted to at least place himself in a defensive posture, he instead closed the door, not wanting any more people to be involved in this, putting his hands up front to show he wasn't going to take up his sword, though he was still wary of the man." Whoever you are, don't you dare put me in the same page as my father. That, I warn you. Though I know it is hard of you to believe, I do not know of this plot until just. It seems the King was more cunning than I expected of him. He summoned me for just a chat, and from that I knew something was wrong, so I rushed back. And it seems I was right to do so." His eyes fixed on Gerald, not letting him any chance to suddenly attacked, though he made no move to take up a sword to defend himself against an armed opponent." You are the one being ordered by the King, not me. Listen to her, and put that sword away before someone gets hurt." It was several tense seconds before Gerald reluctantly replaced his sword in its scabbard, though he kept his hand on the hilt, ready to draw if the need arose. Relieved, Alessia curtsied to Arthur before gesturing toward the man behind her." Your Highness, may I present my brother, the former Crown Prince Gerald Alfred d'Ester, whom until moments ago I feared to be dead," she murmured. Gerald gave her a confused look." Why do you describe me thus, sister? Am I not Crown Prince still?" he asked. Alessia turned to him, her face sorrowful. "I'm afraid not, Gerald. Father abdicated the day the castle fell to the siege. Our titles, such as they were, no longer exist," she explained sadly, then inclined her head to Arthur. "I was brought here as a prisoner, and the King ordered my death. Prince Arthur persuaded him to spare my life, but with a cost. I must now serve and answer to him." Gerald's heart ached for his sister's humiliation. "Even now, you are not safe, Alessia. The King has spies, even serving under his own son. He has still ordered your death, but behind closed doors, without public knowledge, and will no doubt put about the excuse afterward that you had bewitched his son into securing better treatment," he explained, then turned himself to face the other man in the room." I know my sister vouches for you, but I also know what I have seen with my own eyes. Either to her, or to the King, you have acted a part. For her sake, I'll not challenge you, but mark my words if you have deceived her in any way you will pay dearly for it," he said firmly. He was right in believing his father wouldn't simply let it pass. What Arthur couldn't believe was how stubborn he was in decimating the bloodline of a Kingdom. It was clear, as long as she is around, his father would not let her live in peace. Her survival, as he would see, is a cancer to his rule. It was worrisome to say the least. But nonetheless it only made him more defiant to his father.“ So you are her brother. I would have thought my father already killed all the royal family of your Kingdom. Yet here stands two of the remaining royalties. I never thought my father would accept a royal family into the army, especially his enemies.“Arthur ensured the word ‘his‘ was clear. He didn't enjoy terming things as if he wanted it. He eyed the brother, realizing that he is part of the guards within the castle itself. To think he was able to infiltrate within her. But what worried him the most is if this man easily could enter his room and attempt an assassination, that means she is safe nowhere alone.“ I won't deny you the satisfaction of gutting me if that happens. But for one, I have no need for someone to threaten me. I'm more worried about the current predicament. Though it is not my place to say, it is clear the King would be able to assassinate her at any time. Your heritage is not yet known to anyone, and you should keep it as such. Defend your sister and ensure her safety no matter the place. There is enough blood of your Kingdom that has spilled.“He reasoned with him, before turning away from the two, shaking his head at the thought of what was going on. He walked past the two of them, taking in the sights of the city, trying to somewhat calm his mind. Gerald merely smirked disdainfully at the suggestion his identity should be kept a secret. "The King is well aware of who I am, your Highness. No doubt his choosing me to carry through the assassination of my sister was intentional, but it seems he bargained with us not recognizing each other due to the time we have spent apart, and I only remain alive through unquestioned loyalty," he explained, then turned to his sister." I could never knowingly harm you Alessia, but if the King suspects I have faltered from my duty then he will have us both killed. What I am about to suggest to the Prince may distress you, but it is the only way, and I hope it may buy you enough time to escape." Turning back to Prince Arthur, he removed his hand from his sword. "Your Highness, you must draw your sword and attack me, just as you had intended before my sister called for calm." Alessia's mouth opened in surprise. "Gerald, I hardly think..." she began to say, but Gerald interrupted her." I do not intend to fight to the death, but I must be sufficiently grievously injured for the King to believe I was genuinely unable to pass the Prince's defenses," he explained. "Take this chance and get out of here if you can, Alessia. My sins are many, but you have committed none that deserve such a fate." With a steely face, he turned away from his sister and waited for the Prince to attack. To know that his father already knew of who he was, it troubled Arthur thoroughly. It meant that he didn't send a random assassin to kill off Alessia. No, he did it with clear intentions to have the siblings eliminate one another. By having the death of a sibling in his hands, Arthur doubted the would-be assassin be able to handle such a pressure on it, and it left him with little choice but to finally realise his father was going to do anything he could to eliminate the presence of a potential threat to his rule." He is right, Alessia." His words were heavy, even as he went to his sword and picked with his hand. Pulling away the sheath and putting it aside, he knew this to be one of the few ways that she could have time to truly plan her escape. How long it would be, even Arthur couldn't guess, but it is clear that this wouldn't be the last of the threats on her. As his father, Arthur could do nothing to prevent the King from doing this again, but he would have to plan what exactly happens soon after this." Gerald, after this, know that my father would not stop to send another assassin to kill her. He would let you live only because he would assume you truly didn't know who was your target, and that I have stopped you. You are seemingly loyal to him, and he will hold you to your word. Any information you are to get from now on would be crucial to her survival. That much I can tell you." He heaved a heavy sigh, putting both hands onto the hilt of his sword. Even against the look of surprise by Alessia, he could not prevent this from happening. At least it would provide him some intelligence from his father. Without another word, he rushed forward, stabbing his sword towards the brother, aiming right for his heart, though he would have expected the man to easily parry such a move. By the time Arthur lunged at him, Gerald had already drawn his sword and, for caution's sake, pushed his anxious sister away. He easily blocked the attack, pushing his opponent's blade away from him with a fierce snarl and aimed towards him with a violent flourish. Alessia could not watch and quickly backed away from the pair, turning her head away and closing her eyes tightly, trying to ignore the sound of metal scraping on metal. The attack was, expectedly, easily parried away from any sort of danger, as Arthur expected. Though it would usually present a good chance for a strike of his own, Gerald held back, realizing that, though he wished of their current duel, it made no sense if the Prince himself was injured. Besides, if anything, his father, the King, would probably blame the assassin for injuring his son, and it would only prolong trouble started by the appearance of his sister. No, this was meant to be his own injuries, and he rather keeps it so. Arthur, realizing the situation, went ahead with another strike, this time hitting its mark as the Prince of a destroyed nation could barely block it, the sword’s blade nicking his arm. Pulling around from the attack, he attempted a strike of his own, though it was a predictable strike. Arthur parried and instantly managed a slash across his chest, enough to wound but not as deep as one would expect, a clear sign of an expert swordsman. Gerald knew it was enough, but for the sake of an act, he rushed forward, stabbing his sword towards the current Prince. Arthur dodged easily, dancing his blade and nicking the cheek of Gerald. It was a clear that his current wounds was enough, and with a slight smile, he returned his sword to his sheath, and with a nod, escaped through the open window, knowing any more time wasted here would only ensure suspicion. Arthur could only heave a sigh of relief. But even then, his mind could feel the coming dangers for the former Princess. She was in danger, and he had to ensure her safety for the sake of her brother. He looked at her, putting away the sword and tried to comprehend the current situation.“ I’m sorry Alessia… It seems you aren’t as safe as I presumed you would be…” His voice was solemn, and though his eyes looked over the city through the window seemingly distracted, his mind was trying to get solutions to the current problem. What he could do was, however, a danger to both him and the Princess. If only he could find a way to escape all of this for her… Alessia had barely been able to watch the struggle between the two men, and when her brother was struck she had to refrain from crying out. She watched helplessly as Gerald fled, staring out of the window for several seconds before Arthur's voice broke her from her reverie. Turning back to him, she nodded to indicate that she understood." How long would it take a man to reach the King's chambers from this window? I fear that is how much time I have to be gone from the castle," she murmured uncertainly. It was a circumstance which deeply troubled her. She had already taken numerous risks to preserve her own life. It seemed each time she thought she might be safe, some new danger presented itself to her. Had anyone else been sent to kill her, Alessia should not have hesitated to flee, but to know her own brother was here, being held essentially to ransom by the vengeful desires of the King, gave her pause. She could not find the courage to run away, alone, whilst he risked his life for a chance she might live to see the outside of the castle walls." I must confess I am much afraid, Prince Arthur. If I travel alone, I will surely be arrested within minutes. I have not the skill to defend myself against armed men, or I should not have been subdued by your father's Generals and brought here." She was right. There is not much time after all. If her brother returned to tell the King that he failed his mission, Arthur's father would only be incited to bring about another assassination, this time maybe even more men. But he doubted that he would do so at the presence of his son. No, he would do the same thing again, summon his son so that he could assassinate her again. Arthur knew well enough that his father wouldn't do anything to harm him, since he is the only heir to his throne. But that doesn't mean she was safe at all. Things are being put forward too fast for the Prince to react, and it was all due to his father's impulsive behavior." Though you are right that my father would probably send more assassins to eliminate you, as long as you are by me in this castle, I doubt my father would do so. But how long that would last, even I can't tell. As long as you are here, he would presume you a threat and will eventually do away with you, even if I am here." His mind thought for a moment, trying to decide the best way for her escape. She wasn't a fighter, that much he could tell, but leaving her under the care of another was something he didn't enjoy. He could not trust anyone within this castle to protect her enough. He hoped that his father would have given a few days for things to be good, but it is clear that such a notion would not come to past." Princess Alessia, you won't be traveling alone. I will take you away from here personally, and as I gave my word to your brother, I will personally protect you from harm." He stated, a slight sorrowful look crossing his face." If you escaped, my father would no doubt ensure your capture, and he will even start to believe I am part of a plot against him. Even as his son, I doubted he would forgive me if he takes to that notion. It seems the wheels of fate has turned for me, and thus I can only defend you as we would escape from here. But not at this time, we have to wait until the sun falls from the sky and darkness rules the lands. Only then would we have the best of chances of escaping." He explained, taking a deep sigh as he looked out into the window again, trying to calm his mind from the current problem. Alessia nodded solemnly and watched as Arthur turned away, returning his attention to the window. For a few minutes she remained silent as she tried to digest all that had happened, and was about to happen. Though his insistence at accompanying her surprised the young woman, she did not say so. But her tired body yearned for rest, and she could ignore this no longer." Forgive me, your Highness, but as we are not to leave until nightfall, do you think it would be safe for me to rest? I have marched for close to a week with no permission to stop; even at night when the soldiers slept I was required to tend to them, to clean their clothes and prepare the next day's rations for them. I am tired and weary, and I must rest," she requested, and she sounded exhausted. Arthur gave her a small nod to her question. As of now, they have some time before they would have to escape the palace. They had the time, and seeing as how things are moving too quickly for her, it was only clear she was exhausted. After all, it happened in such a short period of time that he had no choice but to push forward with his plan." Use my bed, Princess. I would stand guard for you, so that my faith- the King would not launch himself to another assassination attempt on you. I'll wake you up when the night comes, so until then, please rest." He respectfully replied, showing his bed. He took the chair by his desk on his hand, taking the seat towards the window and waited there. Furthermore, he wasn't tired, especially after discovering numerous things in a span of a few hours. His mind kept constantly thinking about what would come, and now he has to fight against his own father, his own kingdom. It made him slightly sorrowful over the whole ordeal, and all he could do now was wait until the right time. "Thank-you, your Highness," Alessia murmured, inclining her head before she made her way over to the bed, climbing on top and laying on her side, her hands folded under her head like a pillow. It only took a few moments before her eyes closed, and she fell into a restless sleep. Occasionally she tossed in the bed and every so often a faint whimper escaped her throat as her most dreaded memories surfaced to plague her dreams. Alessia sat solemnly by her mother's side in an elaborate Hall within her family's castle, dressed in an elaborate gown of turquoise with golden trimmings, her ebony hair twisted into an intricate braid and a diadem of gold and ruby placed carefully upon her head. She glanced up as a pageboy ran into the Hall, bowing as he reached the Royals. Her father turned to him with an impatient look on his face." What is it?" he demanded in cross tones." Sire, the Battle... we were outnumbered and outgunned, and the enemy had us surrounded. The 10th Legion is utterly obliterated," the servant stammered nervously. Alessia paled as the King her father responded. "And what of Prince Gerald? Why is he not here to deliver this news?" he asked. The pageboy bowed his head. "The fight was brutal your Highness. The Prince has not been found amongst the few who survived. We fear he is dead."....." Father, please, this is madness," a distressed Alessia pleaded with her father late one night. "You heard the Generals as well as I. They are only a day's march away, and you know they will not negotiate; once they are here they will destroy us." A tired and weary King turned to her. "My dear, sweet child, have you forgotten your brother already?" he asked quietly." Father, of course I have not, but that is all the more reason to end this war now, while we still can. Gerald died trying to protect us Father. Would you let him die in vain? Would you repay his sacrifice by leading our people to the slaughter like this? There is still time to send a peace envoy and save us all. Please, Father," Alessia pressed desperately. Her father's expression hardened, and he turned away." And bow to that insolent blackguard? He would turn us into mere peasants! No, Alessia, now begone and say not one more word on the topic. I have made my decision and I will stick to it."..... For three days and three nights Alessia had hidden in the ruins of an old hut on the outskirts of what had once been the city she called home. Hearing noises outside, he guessed that the enemy soldiers were finally making their way past and carefully risked a glance out of a tiny hole in the wall, watching the men march past her, unaware that she was there until one of them chanced a glance in her direction and noticed movement." Halt!" he called, and turned to march towards the hut. "Lieutenant, search this dwelling. I believe there is someone inside!" he ordered. With horror Alessia remained perfectly still as she heard heavy footsteps approaching her hiding place.' Well, what have we here? You're coming with us, sweetheart," a cold male voice said. Alessia turned to see a young man, roughly Gerald's age but far more battle-hardened and quite a bit taller too. Her eyes widened in fear at the cruel smirk his features bore as he grabbed her, tying her wrists together. "You look awful pretty. I'm sure the boys will enjoy you," he added with a laugh as he pushed her roughly out into the open. Alessia only whimpered, not daring to protest or make any attempt to fight back. For a long time, Arthur's mind played through the events of the day. The implications of her arrival, the reason as to why he saved her life, and now, being forced to challenge his father's rule. He expected as much that this day would come, but not at such an early time. He was already forced to escape due to her life being targeted, and that meant his father may know of his intentions. After all, the one reason he saved her was because of her heritage... He knew that her presence would bring forth those loyal to her father. She is a bloodline of her kingdom, and as of now the only known survivor aside from her brother. It gave her a lot of possibility of being an enemy of the state. Maybe his father realised that, or maybe he knew what his son was doing, but either way, Arthur now needed to act. His escape from the palace would fuel the fact that she was bewitching him, but once he raised his own army, he knew his father would come to realise that it was his own choice. In the palace, he had few allies he could associate himself with, only because of the blind loyalty many has for his father. Outside, that was a different story altogether. Arthur shook his head from the cobwebs of thoughts surrounding his mind. It was finally nightfall, and he knew they needed to move soon enough. Even as he stood up, he gave one final look towards his city. It was finally time to grow out of the shadow of his father. As he turned to look at Alessia, his attention was bought towards the door, or more specifically, the slit under it. A white parchment, folded up hastily and clearly slid under the door without any sound. Curious as to what it was, the young prince approached it, taking it onto his hand and unfolding the letter. The words itself left him in a much more worried state than he would have wanted.' The King knows of her survival and now wishes to arrest her. His top advisers have given a suggestion that they could do so on the pretext that she was bewitching the Prince. Flee now!' Calming his nerves from the awful news, he crumpled the letter within his hand, turning to the princess on the bed and trying to rise her from her slumber. Even as he did, a finger was on his lips, telling her to keep her voice low, before going towards his sword and armor, wearing them with haste." It is time to escape, Princess Alessia." Alessia groaned softly as Arthur roused her from her slumber. He didn't need to speak; the look on his face and the fingers pressed over his lips told her all she needed to know. She nodded slowly and pushed herself into a sitting position before carefully lowering herself off the bed. True enough, when she glanced out the window she saw the light was fading. She took a few seconds to straighten her clothes, sighing softly as she did so. "Prince Arthur, might I borrow a cloak for the journey?" she murmured quietly. The young princess was shivering, though whether from cold or from anxiety was difficult to tell. She did not like to leave her brother behind, but she knew there was no time to convince him to come, and she also knew it would only feed the King's hatred of them both. Because of this, for the moment she allayed her conscience with prayers that his treason would not be discovered and that he would remain safe. His mind was playing different situations that would probably hinder their escape. Even now, his father would probably be readying his soldiers to capture the young princess, and he doubted that would be appealing for the possible future heir of the kingdom. He knew now it was time for his own discovery of his future away from his father, and nothing else mattered now but to stop his tyrannical rule. Returning his mind towards the present, Arthur nodded, understanding that both of them are easily noticeable. Going towards his closet, he pulled two cloaks with hoods, and passing one to her. He tied his around his neck, pulling the hood on to somewhat obscure his face. At least now no one could know it was him from the distance. The cloak even hid his sword around his waist, something that would bring attention to his presence. For now, at least, he could stay at ease that from a distance, no one would know him." We need to at least get out of the city by tonight. There is a town nearby that we can rest for a few hours later, but after that, we need to hurry onto our journey. I believe your Kingdom, though fallen, still has those loyal to you present. It is only there where we can be at ease." He reasoned, seeing from her looks of concern that it wasn't them she was worried about. Though he would have wanted to bring her brother along, he doubted that was possible, especially if he is trusted by the King. For now, he would have to do without him. He looked out of the window, and the city winding down from their business. It was the best time for their escape. Alessia accepted the cloak from him with a grateful smile, fastening it around herself as he made his suggestion." I hope you are right, your Highness. Many more lives than mine depend on it," she murmured with a sigh, before pulling the hood up over her head, tucking her hair into it. "Now seems as good a time as any. After you, your Highness," she added with all due politeness. Seeing that everything was set, he gave her a reassuring nod, turning towards the window. It was luck that his quarters are based at the second level of the castle, if not it would prove to be much difficult than he would anticipate it to be. Ensuring everything he needed was with him, especially his weapon now hidden beneath his cloak, he opened the window and climbing over it. Ensuring his step on the ledge was safe and secure, he motioned her to follow his lead, walking by the ledge towards a nearby ladder he had one of the servants left behind. He already knew his father would discover his disappearance early next morning, but for now they had some time before such an occurrence come to past. Even as he climbed down the ladder onto the bushes nearby, he awaited her arrival, looking around cautiously for any signs of a threat. With none whatsoever being seen, he began a steady pace towards the gate of the castle, the guards changing shifts to leave it empty for a short period of time. He continued to walk ahead, hearing the footsteps of the princess to know that she was keeping pace. They were out of the castle within minutes, and soon they were going to be out of the city.

The Aftermath of War (Ghost and Ladia)|rating:4.0

Stand-In Brother (DTH & Izzy325)

Pulling into the driveway, David checked his phone and then the gold numbers above the door. This was definitely the place. He had used Google's street view to see what the house looked like, but it was good to be certain he wouldn't be wandering up to the wrong house and saying he was ready to be their son or brother. It was without a doubt a strange situation, but bills needed to be paid and so far the family didn't seem as crazy as they sounded. In fact, he felt bad for them. For all those reasons, he hoped this would work out. Grabbing his large hockey duffle bag, he slung it over his muscular shoulders and headed toward the house. If this had been the dorm, multiple trips would have been needed, but the family insisted he would only need to bring clothes. The rest would be provided. Despite that, he still packed away his laptop and some other things. When he arrived at the door, he rang the doorbell and waited. The twenty-year-old college student stood just over six feet tall with short dark hair and teal eyes. He was always active, so he kept in good shape. And his love for the outdoors kept his skin fairly evenly tanned. When the door opened, he smiled seeing the mother of the family. Her name was BEV, and she had been his point of contact over the past month. "Hi BEV... it's good to meet you in person." They had talked over Skype, but this was better than the Skippy and grainy service. Although Skype was better than the email chain they had been sending back and forth beforehand. He reached to shake her hand, but she leaned in and gave him a hug. As she hugged him, she said "It's good to meet you too. I know it will be an adjustment, but hopefully you can call me 'mom' in the future." David smiled, that certainly would be an adjustment, but he would be giving this his best effort. "Ok, mom." He gave her cheek a quick peck and asked "Is everyone else here?" He shifted the strap of the duffle bag on his shoulder so it wouldn't slip. Beverly and Michael Henderson hired a local college student to watch over their daughters. Last year their oldest son Jake was in a car accident. Despite the best efforts of the hospital, he was pronounced dead. This left a huge hole in the Henderson household. BEV and Mike believed their daughters needed another male figure to come and watch over them, the way a big brother would. Beverly and Mike asked daughtersLeahandEmmato be home when their new stand in brother arrived, although they didn't know that. Ever since the accident the Henderson's found it difficult to relate to their children and get them to open up. Emma somewhat leaned on her parents seeing as she was only sixteen. Leah was eighteen and felt as if she didn't need anyone to lean on. She had her friends and she was starting college at the local university. The same one David attended. Beverly welcomed David inside their home and led him towards the living room. "Emma is here our youngest. She is sixteen. But I'll leave you two to get yourselves acquainted." The beautiful mother brought David to the living to meet her youngest daughter Emma. "Emma this is going to be our guest for the time being. His name is David. How about I grab you guys a drink and some snacks. David leaves your bag on the ground, and I'll be right back." Beverley left the living room leaving David and Emma alone to talk." Hi, David... I'm Emma." She said a smile playing on her lips and she giggled softly. "Sorry, my mom already said that." She brushed her hair behind her ear and looked down. "I'm sure they've told you about Jake..." She grew quiet as she finally looked up at David. Despite only being sixteen the girl already thought he was cute. Her heart fluttered the way a sixteen-year-old girls heart does when she has a crush." My sister Leah should be here too. I'm sure you'll meet her later." Beverley came back with Mike in tow. The father reached out and gripped David's hand. "It's good to have you here son. I hope I can call you that." Mike laughed as Beverley placed down a tray of lemonade and cookies down. "Mike leaves the kids alone. We can all catch up at dinner." With that, the adults left the room once more and for good. "Would you like a tour? I can show you your room...and the rest of the house." Another blush played across her cheeks as she stared at David. David unstrapped his bag and rested it on the wood floor. He rose and smiled at Emma and her second introduction. "It's good to meet you, Emma." Then she spoke of Jake. David nodded and said "Yes, I'm sorry to hear that..." To his surprise, and thanks, the teen when on to talk of Leah and before long, the father came in. David shook his hand, and before he knew it, it was just him and Emma again. Hearing of a tour, he said "Yeah I'd like that. This seems like a large enough house to get lost easily in." David smiled and couldn't help but notice Emma's giddiness. She was very cute and her personality matched. They started, of course, in the living room and made their way over to the kitchen. Moving onwards, they arrived in the dining room which had a view of the large green backyard. This was a very nice home." So you're sixteen, does that mean you will be starting 11th grade this year?" David had a summer birthday, so he was always the younger of the group in his grades. He walked with her through the hallway toward the stairs. When she walked ahead of him, he got a view of her tight young ass. The man got the feeling being her "brother" would be a stranger task than he had anticipated." Are you one of the lucky sixteen-year-olds with a car?" He smiled and then said "I didn't get one until I was eighteen, and it's only because my parents hated sharing" he laughed. David remembered he had left his bag in the living room. He probably should have grabbed it, but that could wait. As they got to the second floor, he asked "What do you do for fun around here, Emma?" Down the hall he saw an open side with another view of the green backyard. Then on the opposite side were rooms. One of the doors was shut, and he wondered if that would be his. For the first two years at school he had lived in a dorm. David liked it, but there was no denying that it could be cramped at times. Sharing a bunk bed with another person made having guests tricky. Even though he had a "family" here, at least he had his own room, at least he assumed. David couldn't imagine people sharing a room here with so much space. He could hear the faint sounds of Beverly and Mike talking downstairs. This whole situation made him curious, but he would not want to eavesdrop on his new "parents". David knew he would get to know them soon enough." The entire situation with David was nothing short of weird. How many people lose their brother and their parents pay another guy to stand in for them to take care of their youngest children. Emma had never heard of it before. She hadn't even told her friends because of how odd she found the situation to be. Everyone already looked at her funny because of her brother. Some of the students remembered him from when he was there as a student. Emma could only imagine what would happen if they found out about this. This was better kept as a secret for now. Maybe after she got to know David she wouldn't mind telling them. David's deep voice brought her out of her thoughts as she led him through the house. "Yeah once school starts up next week I'll be starting as a junior. It supposed to be the hardest year of high school, but I'm hoping people are just exaggerating." She said laughing as she led him upstairs. The Henderson's house was rather large as the family was fortunate enough to have two parents who were high-powered attorneys. Which usually meant that Beverley and Michael were out of the house for hours at a time. Which usually left their children to do whatever they'd like." I do have a car, but my parents didn't buy me the BWM I asked for. Which I understand, but it didn't hurt to try. Maybe when I graduate college they'll buy it for me. A girl can only dream." Emma stopped by David's room and opened the door allowing him inside. "I guess that depends...during the summer we hang out, maybe go to the swimming hole or hang out at someone's pool. Or we sneak into the college parties." Emma's cheeks turned a slight pink as she realized what she had said. "Don't tell my parents that. They think we are studying usually. But other than that I'm a cheerleader too. I love it." The bedroom that would be David's was large with a king-sized bed in the middle of the wall. The walls were painted a beautiful shade of blue. The Henderson's made sure that everything a college man would want would be able in his bedroom. The game was supplied with every video game console known to man. The TV allowed him to watch 1000s of channels. They wanted to make sure he enjoyed his time at the house." One thing I should mention...if you can stay out of Jake's room. My parents don't like when anyone goes in there. I think it's still too hard for them." There was an awkward silence for a moment as Emma looked down at her feet. "What about you? What do you do for fun?" She asked as she looked into his eyes. Emma knew there would be no way David would be interested in her that way, but she couldn't help as her heart skipped a beat looking at his handsome face. At least she would be able to see him around the house. Hopefully, his was the kind of boy who liked to walk around with no shirt on. David smiled when Emma said she got a car, but not a BMW. This family must have more money than he thought. The fact he was getting paid to live here, and the size of this house had tipped him off. But it seemed like money was no object to the Henderson's. Then she slipped and talked about going to college parties. For many girls, telling the age difference between 16 and 18 could be difficult, so he could easily see her posing as a youthful-looking freshman. "I won't tell anyone, but there is a good chance we've bumped into each other at least once. Although there are a Lott of parties that go on throughout the year." He was about to talk about his favorite parties, Halloween ones, until she opened the door to his room. "Wow... look at this." A massive bed, massive TV, game system, practically a wall of games, his own bathroom or at least an attached one, large window view, a couch, walk-in closet, and a desk with a laptop on it. The room was gigantic, like a one-room apartment on steroids. David snapped out of it when she mentioned Jake's room. He nodded and said "I get that. No worries." Walking further into the room, he heard her question and turned to look at her. "I like swimming and college parties like you. I also like jogging, weightlifting, hiking, and boxing. Although there aren't any places that do boxing around here. That's just for when I'm back home. Looking at this wall, it seems like I'll be getting into video games." He smiled." Do you play video games?" He asked, wanting to get to know his new 'sister' better. Before long, the two had cycled through various games. One was a Mario Kart type racing game, another was a zombie shooter, and the last was hockey. He wasn't very good, but he enjoyed it all the same. As they sat on the bed and the game finished, he saw his phone vibrate. It wasn't someone he was interested in talking to. But he picked it up anyway and said "What's your number Emma?" Getting the number of a sixteen-year-old wasn't a habit for him, but since she was his new sister, he didn't see any issue in it. Although she was very attractive and very fun. Now that David had mentioned it Emma thought she recognized his face if only somewhat. She doubted she had ever seen a boy as handsome as him. She must have fallen over herself when she was at that college party. Furthermore, she and her friends loved college guys...if they looked like David that was even better. Once she grew comfortable enough she couldn't wait to tell the rest of the squad. They would freak out. They would want to come over....as she thought about it further she realized she didn't want the other girls to know. She'd like to keep David to herself for the time being. Emma liked sitting on the bed playing video games with David. It sort of reminded her how Jake would hang out with her. Although she never had thoughts of undressing in front of Jake. As the two finished playing David pulled his phone out and asked Emma for her number. Giddy Emma gave David her number as she pulled her own iPhone out. "Give me your number too. In case I need any help with anything." Emma leaned back onto David's bed her hair fanned out under her. She imagined all the things she'd be able to do with her new 'brother'. Part of her felt guilty. She wouldn't have met David if Jake hadn't died. Emma grew sad as she thought about it more. Was she a bad person? She loved her brother but was she replacing him? She hoped David hadn't noticed her mood change as she shifted on the med to look into his deep blue eyes once more. "Tell me more about yourself...what brought you here? What is your family like? Are you close with them?" Emma tended to ramble when she met boys she found cute. David was no exception as she wanted to know as much as she could about him. David smiled as he typed her number in under the name Emma Henderson. Then he shot her a quick text saying "Hey it's your brother, Dave." It felt strange typing it, but he figured he'd grow used to it. It was still the first day after all." Help with anything? Am I AAA, coming to fix your flat tire?" He joked. Her mother had talked briefly about him being there for her daughters, but no specifics were given to what that actually meant. David thought it would just be to spend time with them, get close, and provide that sort of bonding support. He figured that's what a good brother would do, so it was his plan. Then their eyes locked together and she asked to hear more about him. He started with the easy questions "Well, I have a mom and dad. No siblings, but quite a few cousins that live near home. My parents are nice, but they both work two jobs so it can be tricky seeing them. But I love them a lot. And what brought me here was your mom's ad. At first, I thought it was too good to be true, but we emailed back and forth and well here I am." David smiled. "It worked out great since I go to school just a short ways away." Just then, they heard the mom's voice near the stairs "Dinner's ready, come on down you two." David stood and said "Time for food. But first..." He snapped a quick picture with his phone and laughed seeing he had caught her half-way through a blink and speaking. It was a goofy and unflattering picture. "I just needed a contact picture for you... and this one is perfect" he tested. Emma gasped as she tried to grab David's phone to delete the picture. The man was too quick and pulled it out of her reach. Despite Emma being one of the most down to earth girls in her grade she never wanted that picture to see the light of day. "Oh my God. Delete that picture, David!" She said laughing as she continued to try and grab the phone. Emma heard her parents call them downstairs for dinner drawing her attention away from David. Which was considerably hard to do since the beautiful sixteen-year-old was already sporting a crush on the college man. Emma stopped trying to grab the phone as she got up and headed towards his bedroom door. "This isn't over. Before tonight end's I promise I'm going to get a photo just as embarrassing." Emma said as she opened his door and headed down towards the dining room. She smiled towards David letting him know she was joking around. The teen led her new faux brother downstairs towards the dining room where Beverly and Michael were waiting for them. "Leah won't make it to dinner. She said she had to study. I'm sure you'll meet her later tonight when she gets home." Mike said smiling before he helped himself to the delicious food Beverly made for their family. After some polite conversation where David got to know the rest of the family Emma and David were sent off to their own devices." I haven't shown you the rest of the house right. Did my parents tell you we have an inground pool? It's heated so we can swim at night. There's a fireplace back there as well. It's nice during the spring and summer. Jake and I used to hang out back there a lot. It was our thing." Emma said as she led David out back to check things out. "The guest house has a spare bedroom and some swimming trucks to change in." She said as she turned the lights on in the backyard. "I know you said you liked swimming so hopefully that'll help you adjust a little bit better." He laughed as she playfully threatened him. But David just adjusted his settings to make it her contact picture. "Do your worst, I dare you." The two then had a meal with their parents. David found it strange that Leah would be studying. Classes hadn't even started yet, but perhaps the girl was just a really proactive student. He looked forward to meeting her, but that could wait. During the meal, David learned more about his host family. They were members of a local country club, BEV and Mike liked to golf, Mike liked to do competitive clay shooting, and BEV enjoyed swimming laps. The family as a whole seemed to vacation a lot. Christmas holiday was often spent somewhere warm, and summers were a toss-up. The parents also liked to do other vacations during the year that usually involved a legal conference. Then they asked about David. BEV already knew quite a bit about him from talking previously, but they still all wanted to know more. So David told them a bit about his interests like boxing and weightlifting. To which they said he was welcome to use the basement gym anytime. Then he talked about school, where he was studying finance. They listened and asked questions and seemed genuinely interested. When the meal was finished, David thanked them and then followed Emma to the pool. "I'm surprised I didn't see it from the window, but you guys have such a huge yard." They passed around some large arborvitae trees and there he saw the pool and guest house. It seemed like every minute he was getting a new appreciation for how wealthy his adoptive family was. Agreeing to a swim, David headed into the spare bedroom of the guesthouse and found a pair of trunks. Undressing, he left everything on the bed, including his phone and stepped out into the night. The summer air was still warm, and the light illuminated the pool. David stood there tan and muscular with a thickly haired chest looking around for Emma. He dipped a foot in the pool and realized she wasn't kidding about the heat. It felt great, good enough for skinny-dipping. Walking over to the deep end, he took a few steps and plunged into the water. Rising to the surface, his hair on his head and chest were now clinging to his body. He smiled enjoying the warmth of the pool and spoke out into the empty night "Trying to snap an embarrassing picture of me, Emma?" Back in the guest house on the bed, David's phone buzzed with a picture message from Damaris Lewis. She was smiling in the picture with text saying "Please answer me BBY." Emma went upstairs to her bedroom and quickly changed into her two-piece bathing suit. Part her wanted to change in the pool house with David, but she knew it would be weird. Her bikini matched the color of her eyes making them pop. Emma looked at herself in the mirror admiring her body. More specifically she was critiquing it. David is going to want a more developed girl...girls like Leah. She thought to herself as she moved trying to view her body from different angles. Leah was one of the most popular girls when she was still at school. She was naturally beautiful, funny, and smart. Girls wanted to be her and boys literally did everything they could to date her. It was comical the lengths many boys went to even speak with her. Gathering her thoughts she left her phone in her bedroom and went downstairs to the pool. She didn't want any distractions when she talked to David. She made her way towards the pool and noted David standing by the pool testing the water. "Let me grab towels, and I'll be right out." The pretty girl ran inside and heard David's phone beeping. Letting him know he had a text message. Emma looked over her shoulder and looked at the man's phone. She raised her eyebrow and found herself being slightly jealous that a random girl was calling her new 'brother' baby. She put his phone back down and grabbed the towels before heading outside towards the pool once more." I thought it would be better to have the towels ready so we don't leave the pool house floor soaking wet." She said smiling as she put down the towel on one of the lounge chairs next to the pool." So... I know you already told me a lot about your life but what is your situation with girls?" Emma turned her back towards David as she tried to hide her pink blushing cheeks. "I'm sure you have a lot of girls back at school.who text you..." She said as she walked towards the edge of the pool near the stairs. Taking a few steps in the girl walked into the heated pool letting out a small moan as the water soothed her muscles. David swam beneath the water and rose, wiping off of his eyelids before opening. He smiled seeing Emma. She looked cute in her bikini, and it showed off her slim young body, and perky breasts and ass. David was starting to realize there would be some weird fantasies between them that he would have to suppress. He scratched his hairy chest as she asked about his dating life. It was a sore topic, but one he had been upfront with when discussing with her mother before coming out here. "Eh, it's complicated, but I guess everyone says that." David felt like keeping it to himself, but if he wanted to succeed in bonding with her then being open would be a good start." I haven't dated since last school year. I was going out with a girl for almost a year, and she ended up getting with my friend behind my back. Lots of drama and big regrets came after that..." And nearly an arrest. "And now the crazy ex has been wanting to get back with me." David rolled his eyes. "So that's my fun situation with girls." The man laughed." How about you? How's high school dating?" David lifted his legs off the bottom of the pool and used his arms to slowly move around in the water. It was relaxing, but he couldn't imagine doing laps at such a warm temperature. This type of heating seemed almost strictly for leisure. So he stopped his slow swimming and stood in the water, feeling the warmth ease his large muscles. David did not miss his ex-girlfriend. The two had some great times together, but after what happened, he could never take her back. He wished she would let it all go, but for some reason she held onto the fantasy that they could make it work out. It just stung even more since the two had shared a network of friends. And like any typical break-up, no matter the circumstances, a good majority of the friends sided with her. David imagined knocking out his traitorous best friend didn't help, but what was done. That had been partially why he wanted this gig. His circle of friends had shrunk significantly and to be part of a family seemed like a good option. He didn't like talking or sulking about it, but he was never close with his parents. They never treated him poorly, but bonding with them was so hard with how much they worked. Emma took in all the information that David gave her. The man must have kept a lot bottled up because she didn't sense that type of sadness in him until now. Emma felt guilty as David told her his story because she couldn't help but admire his body. His muscles flexed as he moved his arms and the young cheerleader found it distracting. David was the pinnacle of masculinity." I'm so sorry that happened to you." Emma said genuinely as she walked deeper and deeper into the warm water. "I can't even imagine what that must have felt like. But I just want you to know I won't say anything to my family. If they don't already know." Emma swam underneath the water letting her thick hair get wet before coming back up to the surface to get air. Running her hands through her hairs slicking it back she turned her attention back towards her new college-aged 'brother'. "High school dating....it'd interest to say the least. There was one guy named Jacob who I was interested in. He's on the football team but that sort of fell through." She walked closer to David fanning her arms out in the heated water. "He wanted more than I was willing to give him."" Not that I wasn't ready I just didn't want it to be him...if I thought he cared I would, but he was a fuckboy literally." She said laughing as she laid on her back now floating in the water. "I think if I met the right boy I'd be more than happy to take that next step. Jacob still tries to talk to me...but I think it's because he's hoping I'll sleep with him." Emma looked up at the stars imagining how David must have been like as a sixteen-year-old high school boy. He treated women with respect. Emma could tell. "I don't know if you can explain this, but why are some guys like that? I can understand they are interested in sex we all are." A light blush crept on her cheeks. "But why can't they also want more than that? Is it truly that difficult to feel more for them? Were you only interested in sex at my age?" She asked honestly wanting a real answer. Hearing her concern for his privacy, David said "Nah, your mom knows about it. It doesn't need to be a secret. I just don't go around telling anyone, but if I'm asked, I don't lie about it." Then David listened to her story with Jacob. It sounded frustrating, however he couldn't help but laugh about the fuckboy part. David noticed that term was becoming more popular every day. But he nodded and regained a more serious composure. "I'm sorry to hear that, Emma. At least you were able to figure it out before." David rested his arms up on a floating pool raft that drifted by. This warm water was so relaxing, nearly threatening to put him to sleep. However, it felt good to have his muscles be at ease. Being cramped in his car all day to get here was no fun. Emma then asked about guys' desires. It was a difficult question to answer, but David had thought about it before. "I wouldn't say I wasonlyinterested in sex, but it was a strong desire." He paused and thought a bit. "I think for guys the need is more hormonal, not something that needs a whole ton of building. Obviously, I don't know what it's like from a woman's perspective, but there were... are times when I desire sex for no apparent reason. I could be sitting all by myself, and it just hits me without any inspiration. And it's a hard thing to shake. Not to say it consumes all of my motivations like maybe Jacob." David laughed. "But it kinda becomes like when you are hungry. It doesn't go away until you eat." David wondered if he had said too much, but Emma was clearly engaged in the conversation. He wondered if these were things he talked to her brother about or if this was just him. He then broke the silence and said "I wouldn't go telling your parents we talked about sex" he laughed. The man wasn't sure how open they were about it, and he didn't want them thinking an innocent conversation was anything but. The two waded in the water, chatting for quite some time. David really liked Emma. She was fun and could hold a conversation. After probably an hour, BEV walked into the pool area and said "Oh good you two haven't drowned. I'm surprised how long you've been out here" she teased. "Anyway, David would you mind taking Emma school shopping tomorrow? School supplies, clothes, and all that? I left the credit card we got you on your bed, and feel free to get anything you need as well." David was shocked by the level of trust they had placed in him getting a credit card, but he quickly replied "Uh, yes of course. Thank you for that, it's very kind." BEV smiled at him and said "Anytime. Well we are going to call it a night. You two have fun." She waved and then left her two children to their devices. Emma rolled her eyes at her mother and her somewhat corny jokes, but the young girl had to admit that she loved her parents and how much they tried to understand her. Unlike her friends, she enjoyed being around her parents. Beverly and Michael made sure they took the time to see how she was doing if she needed to talk, or just wanted to hang out. Her parents didn't command her to do anything. They set boundaries, but they allowed her to live her life. After her mother walked away Emma turned back to David and smiled. "I think I understand men a little bit better now. I appreciate that." She said as she swam closer to him and then circling him in the pool. "I think a part of Jacob's is that while it's ok to be horny it's not ok to be an asshole. He needs to back off. But I'm sure he will sooner or later." Emma moved towards the edge of the water and climbed out if the water and checked her phone. "It's getting pretty late... I was thinking about watching a movie and then heading to bed. We can grab my school supplies at some point tomorrow." She grabbed her towel and start to dry herself off. "I'll be in my room if you want to watch the movie with me." She said and headed inside. Emma went up to her bedroom and showered quickly washing off the chlorine and changed into a pair of booty shorts and a tank top. She dried her thick hair as best she could with her towel before checking her phone once more. Jacob had texted her while she was in the shower. He was most likely looking to come over, but David was there. What did she need with Jacob if she had David there? Her parents had gotten her the new IT movie. She had seen the original a couple of years ago and that one was terrifying. If that one scared her she could only imagine what this would be like. Movies only got scarier over the years not easier to handle. David nodded when she spoke of Jacob. He hoped things would work out for her, but he knew very little of him. Then she rose from the water and invited him to watch a movie with her. Before long, David had gathered his clothes from the guest house and made his way to the main house. After he showered and changed, he saw his phone had a few messages from Damaris. David sighed thinking How could she picture this working again?. The trust had been so badly shattered that it was beyond repair. It sucked because they had some really great times together, she was a real looker, and they had great sexual chemistry. However, David had made then and off again mistake before and had learned from it. But David wasn't always so wise. In his phone he still had all the nude pictures they had traded. He hadn't looked at them in a very long time, but they were there nonetheless. Pulling on a pair of pajama bottoms and a white shirt, he knocked on Emma's open door. He saw the IT remake on her bed and smiled. "Oh boy, I remember seeing the miniseries when I was younger, but I haven't seen the new one. You sure you can handle this sort of thing?" He teased, figuring she had a thing for horror if this is what she wanted to watch." You know the clown was actually based off a real serial killer? I can't remember his name, but he'd dress up as a clown for kids parties. He wouldn't hang out in sewers though." David looked at the back of the DVD and then up at Emma. She was really cute in her shorts and tank top. He smiled and slid the DVD into the player. She had a TV as massive as his. Turning on the movie, he sat on the bed and motioned for her to come close to him. David wasn't certain if it would come off as weird to her, but he was her brother. Nothing odd about that. Emma admired David's body as the white shirt stretched over his muscular body leaving nothing to the imagination. The girl climbed onto her bed and sat next to David looking over his shoulder at the DVD case. "I think I saw the miniseries once, but it terrified me. My mom told me not to watch it and so naturally I did when she wasn't home. I was scared for weeks. I must have been about 7 years old then. Furthermore, I remember I had to sleep in my parent's room for a week or so after that." She said with a laugh. Emma stood up and walked towards her bedroom door before turning around. "I'm going to go grab us some snacks. We have a bunch of stuff, so I'm sure I'll grab something that you like." She said before heading downstairs. Emma raced into her kitchen and grabbed the microwavable popcorn and stuck it in the microwave setting the timer before looking back in the pantry. Seeing how her family was well off they seemed to have every type of snack imaginable. She grabbed chips, cookies, and candy and loaded it all up on a tray before grabbing the popcorn and putting it into a bowl. Emma headed back upstairs and placed the tray on her bed. "Hopefully I grabbed something you like...otherwise I don't know what to tell you." She said with a laugh. Emma then grabbed the DVD and put it into the DVD player before she climbed back on the bed and laying back against her pillows. "I'm going to apologize now because if I get scared I'm either going to scream or I'm going to grab you. Either way, I'm apologizing now." She said with a laugh as she grabbed a small handful of popcorn and ate it. "You just have to promise you don't scare as easily because we both can't be terrified." She said after munching on the popcorn. (Excuse me for not looking into what goes on in the new IT. I still haven't seen it yet, but want to haha.) David laughed at her recollection of the miniseries. "Yeah, for the longest time afterward I'd keep my eyes trained on storm drains. So we'll see what happens after this." Then she left, only to return with an abundance of snacks. He smiled and thanked her, taking a cookie from the tray. This was a pretty cushy job he had. If he could even call it a job. Emma then popped in the DVD and apologized. "I'm sure I'll be fine. But I may or may not get some good jump-scare ideas for you" he laughed. The movie began and did not disappoint. Pennywise was just as creepy as before and made David wonder how clowns could ever be seen as friendly again. The two ate popcorn together, chatted during parts, and laughed after a scene caused Emma to jump. A few of them even got him by surprise. When the movie finished, he smiled at her and asked "So will you be missing sleep because you'll be thinking of part two, or because of fear?" The two chatted for a while before David stood up and stretched. Yawning, he knew despite the jump-scares, he was ready for sleep. "I don't have any plans during the day tomorrow, so whenever you're down for school shopping, I am too." Before long, he said good night and walked next door to his room. David was satisfied with the day, his new "family" was really cool. Although he did wonder about Leah. There was no way she was studying this late. He was glad he was able to get plenty of time with Emma, but he hoped to meet Leah soon. Perhaps she was already asleep in her room. There was no way to tell with the door being closed all day. Once in his room, David had to take care of one more thing before bed. Sifting through his large hockey-sized duffle bag, he pulled out a clear cylinder and a small bottle. It was his Flashlight and water-based lube. Less than a month after the breakup, David went out and bought one. Being exhausted by women made this a necessity, although it was pretty messy. Laying down in his bed, he slid the clear rubber pussy down his thick nine-inch cock. He couldn't help but moan a bit when the lips pressed against his swollen and hairy testicles. The college boy took his time working up the pleasure, and when the time came, his hot cum spewed into the rubber tube, leaking out the open end. Unfortunately it had to be open due to suction, but the pleasure was worth it. It wasn't as good as the real thing, but after all the drama he went through, it was a decent substitute. David laid there in pleasure for a while before getting up and going to the bathroom. He cleaned off his big cock and decided to leave the cum-filled flashlight on the bathroom counter. It could wait until tomorrow morning to be cleaned, plus the bathroom was only attached to his room. That was a good thing too because before long the bathroom began to smell like semen. Once washed up, David crawled into bed and fell contently asleep. As Emma suspected she was terrified throughout the entire movie. At one point she grabbed David's arm partly because it was a reaction to her fear but mostly because she wanted a reason to touch him. As she held his bicep she couldn't help but think about how hard the rest of his body was. As she pulled away she felt slightly guilty. Here was a man who was trying to help her family overcome a horrible situation but all she could do was have lust filled thoughts. As she removed her hand from his admittedly nice arm she vowed to stop. At least she prayed it would stop. But both her and God knew she was in for the long haul with her crush. Emma and David talked a bit more until they both felt tired and decided it was time for bed. Emma brushed her teeth quickly and made her way to bed thinking about what would happen the next day when they went shopping. They'd have the entire day to themselves. Part of her felt a little guilty that she didn't want Leah to come home, but she knew they'd meet eventually. Leah was beautiful and one look at her and David would have no interest in a sixteen-year-old anymore. Sighing softly Emma closed her eyes and allowed sleep to take over.------Leah drove back to her house making sure no one was up as she pulled into the driveway. She knew her new 'brother' would have arrived that day, and she didn't know how to handle it. Leah and Jake were incredibly close growing up, and she felt like she was betraying him if she got to know David. She felt like he only just died. She tried to understand where her parents were coming from, but she was at a loss. There was no replacing Jake no matter how hard her parents tried. She quickly typed in her code to get into her house and crept upstairs toward her bedroom. If she went to bed late and woke up early she could put off meeting him for just a little longer. It would help her prepare. Or at least that's what Leah told herself. She quickly went through her nightly routine before crawling into bed letting her body relax. Sleep took over her which allowed her to sleep for the rest of the night. Leah groaned softly as she woke up in the morning the alarm on her cell phone bringing her out of her sleep. Leah climbed out of bed a little groggy and brushed her teeth before changing into some black workout leggings and a pink shirt which showed off her toned arms and bare shoulders. She put on her black running sneakers before heading downstairs to make a quick breakfast. IF she took a two-mile run now she wouldn't have to talk to anyone. She opened the fridge and cracked a couple of eggs making sure to throw out the yolk. She was trying to keep herself as healthy as possible. Furthermore, she made herself an omelet and added some vegetables to it hoping no one would hear her. Leah finished cooking her breakfast before getting a glass of water and sitting down to eat. Waking up the next morning, David laid in bed for a while just thinking. He thought about Emma, what he was doing here, Jake, and his ex. Not wanting to dwell in his thoughts, he soon got up and turned on the shower. Seeing the messy flashlight, David cleaned it as the shower warmed. After showering, David walked naked into his room and dropped off the flashlight in the bottom drawer of his night stand. He turned on his phone to check the time and saw more picture messages from Damaris. Some a bit racier with her showing cleavage or a back shot. Deleting the images, David mumbled "Jesus, she just doesn't get the hint." After changing into a shirt, boxer briefs, and jeans, David went downstairs. He smiled seeing Mike and BEV, saying good morning to them. BEV asked "Did you meet Leah yet? She just headed up after her run to shower." David shook his head and said "I must have just missed her." Mike took a bite of his toast and said "Hey Dave, you have ever been shooting before?" David shook his head. He'd shot a paintball gun before, but knew that wasn't what Mike meant." This weekend I'm going to a charity event and I need a partner. Would you like to join?" David nodded and said "Yeah, that sounds fun. But don't expect much" he laughed. Bev smiled, knowing that Jake was usually Mike's partner during this event. Mike had asked her to come this year, but she suggested he try David first. David talked with the two for a while before seeing Emma. He smiled at her seeing she didn't look sleep-deprived from seeing It. "Hey, just about ready for some school shopping?"---Before long, the two were in David's car and heading to the mall. They started in an outer shop getting notebooks, folders, pens/pencils, and binders. David felt funny charging it all on his new credit card, but BEV and Mike had insisted. When they went deeper into the mall to get clothes, David wondered if maybe Leah was avoiding him. Wondering why she would do that, he figured it was due to the strange situation. He just hoped if that was the issue, it would get resolved. Making their way toward a clothing store, David saw the last person he hoped to see, Damaris. Nearly cursing out loud, David turned to Emma, wanting to spare her this drama but telling her he'll meet her in the store. But it was too late. Damaris headed over to the two and smiled "Hay, I didn't think I'd see you here. I always thought you hated malls." At least she was being nice right now, so David gave an awkward nod and said "Yeah, well they can be useful sometimes..." Damaris then looked at Emma and her expression turned on a dime with growing tone. "Who is this? Your new girl? I didn't know you had a thing for preteens. You'd pick her over me? Have you even seen my pics?" This was more like what David expected, then Damaris made a move closer to Emma. That wasn't expected. David stepped in between them as Damaris' storm grew. David knew that her rants were like a fire and could be fueled by just about anything, so he just backed up with Emma. When they were clear of Damaris, David's face was red when he felt he should say something. "... I'm sorry about that, Emma... Jesus... I did not expect that to happen." Leah finished her breakfast and quickly loaded up the dishwasher. She could hear someone moving about upstairs which only made her move faster. She grabbed her phone putting in her headphones and went outside. A good hour run should clear her head a bit. It was still jarring to think about having a new older brother. She and Jake had been through so much. She didn't want to replace him. Furthermore, she didn't feel like enough time had passed since her brother died. Opening the front door she took a right and pounded the pavement. While she convinced herself she needed a run. It had been a while since she worked out she truly was just trying to get away from the house. The music tuned out everything going on around her as she ran for as long as she could. She made her way over to a trail made by other runners picking up her pace. She hiked up this hill until she reached the top admiring the view. Furthermore, she didn't get much alone time anymore and this was quite peaceful.----Emma woke up like usual and quickly got ready. Furthermore, she'd woken up an hour later than she wanted too which meant it was an hour less to spend with David. Furthermore, she quickly went downstairs practically pulling David's arm towards the car as she grabbed the car keys out of the bowl they had on the kitchen table. They spent some time walking around the mall going to stores they both liked. As they walked towards a store a beautiful girl approached the pair. Emma turned to ask David who she was, but before the pretty brunette had a chance to say anything Damaris started screaming at them in the middle of the mall. Emma was shocked as David began to stand in front of her before pulling the young girl away. Emma could hear her yelling as they moved further and further away. She had never known anyone who acted like that in public. It was jarring for the privileged girl." David...what in the fresh hell was that? That girl is crazy! I don't think I've ever seen someone act like that in public. I can see why you broke up with her." Damaris' voice grew closer, but Emma could hear a struggle ensue." You don't understand! Some little girl is trying to steal my boyfriend!" She yelled as presumably two officers were called and told to handle the situation. "How often do you have to interact with her? I'd run the other way!" She said trying to make the day lighthearted and fun. David sighed as they continued onward. He did not look back, but could hear what was going on. "She wasn't always like that, believe me. But that's all over." They walked further on, and he smiled at her jest about interacting with her. David did not want to let himself stay in a foul mood the rest of the day. "Ignoring the random lingerie pics, I don't have to interact with her at all" he joked. Although had figured looking into going through whatever process there was to block her from his phone number." How about we get some lunch and go to a nearby outdoor mall to finish up the shopping?" Before long, they were in the car and heading to the outdoor mall. The weather was great for it, and they made their way into a sports bar. David ordered a burger and saw the boxing game on the TV above. He looked at Emma and said "Damaris doesn't know about me living with you and your family, obviously. In fact, she hasn't heard from me since the break-up except for today." David figured that was enough about the mess that was Damaris." Anyways, I still haven't seen Leah. She must be a busy girl, isn't she?" The waitress dropped off his burger, fries, and coke. He had seen pictures of both of the sisters, and while neither could be mistaken for the other, they shared enough features for someone to guess they were related. Part of David worried that Leah was ignoring him. Emma followed along behind David content with spending the rest of the day with him. While the beautiful teen was still a little shaken by what happened she wouldn't let it spoil her mood. She agreed to go out to eat before they finish up the shopping for the day. "Hopefully that's the last time we see her. Maybe she got the hint this time and she'll leave you alone." Emma knew it was a long shot. The way Damaris reacted let her know the girl was crazy, and she'd be back at some point. After getting seated at the sports bar Emma ordered some boneless wings and a side of fries. "I figure she wouldn't be too happy with your new living arrangements. Especially if she saw Leah. She's beautiful. When she was in high school boys would follow her around. She didn't let it get to her head, but boys tended to like her a lot. I hope I'll be as pretty as she is when I'm a senior." Emma said a little wistfully as she looked out of the window imagining what it must be like to be Leah." Leah's always been really busy. Like I said besides the boys that run after her, she has a ton of friends. I'm sure she will be home by the time we get there. She usually takes a morning run, so I'm surprised you didn't see her. But like I said she will be home after we're finishing shopping. My parents don't like when we are out of the house for that long without seeing them." Emma didn't mention that Leah was having a hard time after Jake's death. IT had nothing to do with David she just couldn't process it. Hopefully, David might be able to help her. After the waitress brought her food back she started to eat savoring the taste of her wings. Emma might have been a small girl, but she loved to eat. "I think I only need to stop at another store or two. Then maybe we can grab some ice cream on our way home, and then you can meet Leah. Unless you've got plans after this?" David smiled when Emma wished to be as pretty as Leah when she becomes a senior. He had seen a picture of Leah weeks ago. It was a shoulder and up yearbook photo, however there was no denying she was a pretty girl. However, David sensed a lack of confidence with Emma. Not spite, but a feeling that she could not be as pretty as her sister." You don't have to worry about that. You and your sister look different, yes. But you are very pretty. Don't think otherwise." With that said, David took a drink of his coke and listened as Emma continued. Leah sounded like a well-liked girl. And he formed the assumption that she had a lot of support to get through their brother's death. David then wondered if the reason he was here was solely for Emma. He dwelled on that thought for a while. He broke from his thoughts and smiled "No, no plans other than unpacking my clothes. In fact this weekend just has me going to the charity shooting event with your father. But ice cream sounds great." The pair finished their meal together and went shopping. Emma got what she needed and David picked up some no-show socks and a new belt. His had been getting worn out. The twenty-year-old felt funny charging it to the credit card. But BEV had insisted. At the edge of the outdoor mall, near a play area was an ice cream shop. The line was a little long since it was such a nice day, but it flew by with David and Emma talking. He really liked her and thought they got along great. In fact, he figured they would easily have become friends without this arrangement. He hoped things would be as smooth with Leah. When they returned home, David saw Mike in the garage looking down at a fold-out table. When David and Emma approached, the pair saw two shotguns were there. It appeared some sort of maintenance was being done on them. Mike looked up with a smile and said "Looks like shopping went well" seeing the bags. "David, have a second for me to give you the run-down?"" Yeah, of course." He set down the bag and walked over to the table. Mike talked about the different safety rules, how the competition worked, and then how David's shotgun functioned. It was a lot to remember, but at least the safety rules were common sense. He then had David pick up the shotgun and get a feel for it. The wood and metal device was heavy and solid feeling. Mike showed him how to get a proper stance and grip, and that's when David saw the engraving on the side. J.R.David did not know what the R stood for, but he knew this had been Jacob's shotgun. As little as David knew about shotguns, he knew it fit him well, but it still felt somewhat wrong that he was using it. Mike then asked "Well what do you think? Ready for tomorrow?" David snapped out of it and said "I like it. And yes, I'm ready." Emma's heart pounded in her chest as David complimented her looks. She honestly couldn't believe someone as handsome as David would think she was pretty. She looked at Damaris who had beautiful skin, was gracefully (while still bordering on crazy, and was the epitome of feminine beauty. If David dated girls like that and thought she competed then she had some faith. She knew David wouldn't lie to her so she smiled at him. The pair finished their food and completed their shopping before heading towards the ice cream shop. The ride back to their now shared home in silence. This didn't trouble either of them. Emma felt completely comfortable sitting there as the wind blew her hair around. Once they reached the house David went off with her father. "I'm going to put my stuff away. Then I have to call a couple of my friends to catch up. I'll see you at dinner David. Emma went upstairs and to her bedroom locking herself in her bedroom. She couldn't have imagined a better way to spend the last couple of days of summer. A hot guy who would be living with her for the duration of the school year. As she put her clothes away she imagined the kind of trouble she'd try to tease him over the next couple of weeks. Emma felt lightheaded with giddiness at the mere thoughts. She put her bags down and laid on her back in bed. She imagined his rough strong hands running all over her body. Brushing her hair out of her face, trailing down her smooth skin, pulling off every article of clothing she had. Emma's delicate hands trailed along her body before coming to rest right above her vagina. The girl unbuckled her shorts and rested her hand on top of her underwear. As she made a move to move them to the side her mother knocked on the door. Emma jumped off the bed and quickly answered as she buttoned her pants once more. "How was shopping, sweetheart?" Beverly asked making her way into the girl's room.--------Leah finished her run and jogged lightly back to her house. Her father Mike pulled her to the side once she finished showering. "Leah, I know these past couples of months have been rough on you. It can't be easy...it's not easy for any of us. David is here to help, baby girl. I'd wish you'd talk to him. At least give him a chance. It would really make your mother happy." Mike said a sad smile playing on his lips. Leah felt her own resolve soften at the sight of her fathers face. She knew they were hurting despite David not being the best idea/ Other families didn't do this so she couldn't understand why they would need to. "I'll wait until he gets here, and I'll introduce myself." She said as her father leaned down to kiss her on top of her head. A couple of hours pass until she hears Emma and David pull into the driveway. Leah sighed before heading downstairs in search of David. "He's outside with your father. Go and say Hi. I'm sure he'd appreciate that." Beverley said before she went upstairs most likely to speak with Emma. Leah found David and her father chatting while holding the families guns. Mike spotted Leah and said to David "I'll give you guys some time to meet. I'll call you guys in when dinner is ready." He said before heading off back into the house. "Hey... I'm Leah, obviously." She said awkwardly. Leah was the type of girl who exuded self-confidence so she was at a loss for words at how awkward she felt. "Your name is David right? I think my parents said you would be at the university with me. That should be fun..." She said trailing off. David was looking closely at the shotgun when Leah came into the garage. When Mike spoke, David turned his head and saw her for the first time in person. Emma was right, she was gorgeous. That great mixture of a fit body and a pretty face. He clicked the safety like Mike had showed him and then set the firearm on the folding table. David smiled and said "And I'm David. I was told we just missed each other this morning after your run and before I went shopping with Emma. It's good to meet you." David could tell this was awkward for her, and in turn it was doing the same to him. "Yeah that will be cool. This will be my third year there, I heard it will be your first. I'm sure you've been all around it since you live so close, but if you ever want to be shown around, I can do that. Teach you which apartments or Greek houses have the parties to pass on." He laughed. He wasn't the biggest parties, but he always tried to go to one each weekend. With this school that was never a problem except for exam time. Whether it was frats, sororities, apartments, or rented house parties. In his opinion rented houses were the best. Less chance of a noise complaint and much more room. However, David was still getting a feel for his sisters so he wasn't going to say all that just now. Emma seemed to enjoy college parties all the same anyway, but with Leah it was unknown to him. David knew better than to ask what Leah would be studying. He remembered the Summer before his first semester he was asked so many times it nearly drove him crazy. So instead he said "So running's your thing? I like to run too, nothing super far, just a few miles to mix it into the routine." Leah watched as David put the gun down safely before he turned his attention towards her. She couldn't help but notice how handsome David was. In fact, while Leah had her fair share of suitors she herself might have pursued David if they hadn't crossed paths like this. "Sorry about that... I wasn't trying to avoid you I just had a lot going on. You can usually find me at home." She said as she moved closer to David. She noted that the gun he was using belonged to Jake." I'd like that. I know a couple of people from high school going there too but obviously, none of them would know the answers to that. Are you involved in Greek Life? I thought about sorority at some point this upcoming year. It's always looked like fine. And besides my mom was in one, and I'd like to follow in her footsteps." Leah could feel herself start to relax around David after they spoke for a few minutes. Sure the entire situation was bizarre and awkward, but David was easy to talk to. She could tell he felt just as awkward, but he did his best to talk to her. He was going to be living in her house so they would just have to make the best out of an incredibly uncomfortable situation. "You can probably come running with me if you are ever up to it. I usually do five miles in the morning. Maybe tomorrow?" She knew she ran a lot. IT helped her clear her mind, but she wasn't sure if he could keep up or if he'd even want to. Jake used to run with her in the morning. Which is something she loved. Running together made them competitive. Which in turn made her run harder, faster, and longer. It would be nice to have someone along for the run with her. "But don't feel pressured. If you don't want to I completely understand. I can go a little hard sometimes." She said laughing to herself a bit. David shook his head "No, I'm not in a frat, but I go to the parties now and again." Damaris was in a sorority, so he planned on testing the waters first before heading back to any Greek parties. He wasn't looking for a repeat of the mall, especially with friends around. Like any breakup where the couple shared friends, there had been an unfortunate splitting of the group. And even Moreno like a typical break-up, the majority sided with her. However, he wanted to make every effort to get closer with Leah, so he could steer her toward some drama free ones if the chance arose. He smiled at her invite to run. "Yeah as long as we can finish before 10am. That's when I'll be going to the charity event." He looked at the shotgun. It had been a long time since he had run five miles at once. He usually capped himself at three. However, he knew he could make it to five. David even felt some competitiveness within growing, wanting to see if he could push her as well. Before long, Beverly poked her head into the garage and said "Dinner's ready, you two." She had spoken with Emma about the shopping, and it seemed the girl enjoyed her knew brother. That made Beverly happy. That was David's purpose here, and it was all off to a good start. It even made her feel happy to have him in the house. While David and Jake were different people, something about it felt familiar. Leah kept forgetting about the charity event. Her parents expected her and Emma to attend in the morning. She needed to figure out what she was wearing at some point. She was brought out of her thoughts to respond back to David. "That's no problem, I actually have to go tomorrow too. If you want we can just wake up a little earlier than usual. I don't get a great start to the day if I don't have enough time to run all five miles." Leah turned around at the sound of her mother's voice informing the two college students that dinner was ready. "Well, I'm starving. I'll see you in here." Leah said smiling giving David a chance to put away the gun safely. Leah followed her mother inside taking a deep breathe savoring the smell of food in the air. One thing Beverly Henderson knew how to do was cook her family a delicious meal. Beverley had prepared fried pork chops, seasoned green beans, and mashed potatoes for them that night. Everyone around the table dug in. Leah and Emma both felt famished for different reasons. But nevertheless, both girls finished their plates of food. Once the table was cleared Beverley came up to Leah as Mike and David spoke briefly. "Go hang out with him. I know I interrupted the two of you when I stepped outside. Maybe go for a drive. It'll give you guys a chance to get to know each other." Emma turned around clearly wanting to go, but Beverly shut her down quickly. "You've spent the entire day with him. Give your sister a chance." Emma pouted but said nothing as she finished cleaning up the kitchen. Leah finished up and went to grab David. "Hey, I'm not sure how tired you are but if you want to come out for a drive with me. It's a nice night, and it usually helps me clear my head. And if you want I'll let you drive. You can surprise me with where we go if anywhere at all." She asked unsure if he wanted to spend time with her. The entire situation was weird, and she honestly wouldn't blame him if he decided he didn't want to go. After dinner, Leah came up to David and asked if he wanted to go for a drive. In truth, he was ready for a nap after such a filling meal, but he wouldn't pass on the chance to get to know her better. Smiling, he said "Yeah let's go for a drive." David grabbed his keys from the counter and the two walked out to the driveway. That was where David's car was parked. It was old and nothing special, but at least it wasn't rusty or falling apart... usually. As he started up the engine, he wondered where they should go. He decided to the university. It was roughly a fifteen-minute drive, and before long they were there. But David didn't want to show her buildings or shortcuts." Over there are where most of the Greek Houses are. AET usually has some good parties. AKA is kinda hit or miss, those girls can be pretty serious. And then TET is definitely the most popular one. Their hazing can get pretty crazy, pretty much all the shit you see in movies." He glazed over PBT, knowing that was where Damaris was. Needless to say, he wouldn't be going to any of their events. David liked visiting frats and sororities, but he never wanted to join a frat. It just wasn't worth it to him, he had a good enough circle of friends where he didn't need it. He wondered if his circle would have been left more in-tact if he was in a frat. Moving those thoughts out of his mind he asked "Did you have a sorority in mind you wanted to look into?" The drive to the university was nice. The pair had decided to drive with the windows down. Obviously, with long hair, the wind would become an issue, but somehow Leah's hair managed to stay in place as they sped down the highway. Once they reached campus Leah was surprised to see that David brought her towards Greek Row. She hadn't seen it up close before, and it looked even more beautiful than the pictures. But she didn't expect it to look terrible. Most of the students who went to the prestigious university came from some sort of wealth." I haven't decided yet. I've heard some good things here and there about a couple of the sororities, but I'd like to make my own decision. Everyone should be able to form their own opinion. I feel like people tend to pick for me a lot. I don't think they mean any harm per se, but it's irritating. For example, I know people will expect me to join TET, but maybe I'll like AKA. I would just like the option." Leah chuckled to herself as she looked over at David. "Sorry I didn't mean to unload all of my shit on you. Hopefully, you don't think I'm crazy."" Show me where you normally hang out on campus. You always see in movies everyone hanging out on the quad or in the cafeteria. Is that how it normally is? Or is it more in the dorms?" She asked as they continued to idle on Greek row." Actually why don't you show your favorite place on campus. Or even better, why don't you show me your favorite place in town. You've got to have one I'm sure of it. Mine's this little place along my usual running spot. I'll show it to you tomorrow. It's a bit of a hike, but I promise the view is worth it. I mean if you want to keep it short I'd understand. I know you have that charity event tomorrow with my family." She said brushing her hair behind her ear. David smiled at her apology about unloading on him "No don't worry about it. Good luck with your choice because rush gets pretty busy from what I hear. In the end it's not really about the house's goals or mission statement, it's about the people you'll be spending the time with. I can introduce you to the ones I know, but I'm sure you'd be able to slide into any one of your choice with ease." He then thought about her question "Hmm, dorms are usually the big hangout as well as the student center where the food, games, and events are held. But just about everyone I know now have an apartment or rents a house so that's where I'll likely be this year."" My favorite place... that's tough haha." He then paused for a while, continuing to drive. David still wasn't sure if he had a favorite place, but a place he liked came to mind. So he drove toward it." This little hole-in-the-wall bar here called Rick's is always fun. To be honest it has a trashy reputation, but it's cheap, easy to slip in with a fake ID, and is pretty popular so you always meet new people." He passed by with the car slowly and pointed to it. Since it was Friday night before the semester, there were a few people walking in and showing their card to the bouncer. He nodded and let the group descend the stairs to get down to the bar. Leah watched the bar as they drove by. The bouncer was letting in some of the students who happened to be around for the summer. Leah watched as the students headed inside ready for the night to start. Cheap beer and tequila would be had by all. "Let's go inside. You have a fake right?" Leah asked as the car rounded the corner. "It'll be fun." She said hoping David would agree. Before David could even get an answer in Leah got out of the car and headed towards the door. "My friends and I go to that other bar on the other side of town. Usually they don't give us a hard time so hopefully, that'll be the same here." She said over her shoulder as she drew in closer the entrance. Leah walked towards the entrance her heart pounding. Despite how confident she looked even she got nervous doing something like this. She pulled her fake I.D. out of her wallet and showed the I.D. to the bouncer. The man barely looked at the I.D. before he waved her through. Leah stepped into the dimly lit bar as she scanned the dance floor and the bar to see who was there. The beauty walked towards the bar and sat on a stool as she waited for the bartender to head over to her after he finished with the college students. Once they were finished he came over and Leah placed her order. Which was a tequila sunrise. She slapped a ten on the counter leaving the man a tip before taking a drink. She watched as David walked in and waved him over to her spot. Leah barely got to have fun anymore since Jake passed away. She knew her parents would be fine with her being out with David. David walked in shortly after parking. He had not expected Leah to practically jump right into the bar, but he didn't know all that much about her. Seeing her at the bar, he walked over and took a seat. David simply said "I'll have a beer" knowing that ordering one thing could easily get you something else. When the bartender left the open bottle with David, he left the two. David turned to Leah and smiled "So you have a fake ID too. They are almost a necessity here. But usually I pregame at someone's place before heading out. Many times we don't even make it to the bar." He laughed, enjoying bars, but preferring parties. Even though it was a Friday night, it wasn't the semester just yet. So there wasn't the usual amount of people here. But there were still a fair amount of people at the tables and bar, and just a little dancing. He smiled remembering the first time he came to this bar. His friend told him not to sit on the toilet seat since he'd probably get crabs in a place like this, at least that was the running joke. The rest of the night was a little hazy with all the alcohol consumption, as usual. He drank his beer and said "I know the whole calling me "brother" this is weird. So if you don't do that, I completely understand. I think that's just something your mom wants." Leah watched David sit next to her and order his first drink of the night. While Leah was the typical party girl she knew how to let her hair down and have fun. Since Jake passed away it was like a dark shadow passed over her life and she had no control over when it would disappear. With David in the house, things seemed to be lighter and all around just brighter. Leah couldn't help but smile to herself as she imagined things would finally go back to the way they use to be around their home. Leah felt a small twinge of guilt as she had that thought. How could she feel happy about her family moving on from her brother's death? Leah took a large gulp of her drink before she turned her attention back towards David. She didn't want to think about Jake at that moment." I think for right now I'll call you David...calling you my brother is a little weird. Although if I'm honest I'm sort of glad you are here. I haven't seen anyone smile in that house in quite some time since Jake passed..." Leah trailed off as she looked at her drink and took another sip of it. "How exactly did my parents find you? Not that I'm upset...but how exactly did you fall into this line of work." Leah asked making herself giggle a bit. The question didn't seem odd to her considering Leah had never heard of anyone being paid to be someone's older brother. Leah waved the bartender over and ordered herself and David a shot of tequila. The bartender grabbed the nicest bottle they had and poured them both a shot before placing it in front of them and putting it on their tab. "So obviously you won't be driving your car in the morning... I'll order us an Uber once we've finished her." The pair picked up their shot glasses and Leah tilted her head back and took the shot in its entirety. Leah grimaced as she took the shot and slammed the glass down. Leah wanted to make sure that both her and David had fun that night. Sure they already agreed to take a run in the morning and David had the charity event with her father, but they were young. Hopefully, they would be able to just run the hangover off in the morning. David smiled while he listened. It was good to hear that even though he'd only been here a little over a day, he was making a difference. Then she asked how he came to be here." Well I was looking for a roommate. Originally I wanted to get an apartment close to campus, but I knew I couldn't foot the whole bill for that. I tried Craigslist, pad mapper, and another sight I can't remember. But anyway, I saw the post made by your mom about an open room that said rent would be cheap and meals and all that would be included." He saw the shots of tequila being poured and soon drank with her. "Good idea on an Uber." While David was no lightweight, tequila had a strong effect on everyone. Plus tequila always seemed to kick in faster too." So I replied to your mom's post, figuring it was just spam that would put my email into a database" he laughed. "But she replied and wanted to talk on the phone for a bit to get a feel for what kind of person I was. She worded that a lot better than I just did. So we talked and that's when she told me about my 'role'. We talked a few more times over a week, and I talked to your dad too through FaceTime. And you're right, it was odd at first. I thought maybe your parents had a screw loose or something, but that thought didn't stay long. They just wanted another person in the house. That's when they offered me the room, and laid out all the details... and here I am." David smiled, figuring he'd omit the part about being paid to be here. There was no need to make this feel artificial even though the circumstances made it seem that way. He then wondered if there were others who had applied for this position. Surely the lure of cheap rent and free meals got at least a few other responses. Either way, he won out and was now the resident. Taking a drink from his beer, it was his turn to order a shot. He decided on minibeers. When the ingredients were mixed together the shot tasted similar to a milkshake. Tapping his shot glass against hers, he downed it. At first his impression of Leah was that she was wound a bit too tight with studying and running, but now that didn't seem to be the case at all. David was finding he was liking her more and more. Leah wasn't sure how the entire process worked in terms of finding a new brother but if her mother picked David to be her new stand in brother he must have made an impression if both her mother and father had approved of him. In their family, her father's approval meant everything so if he didn't like David the conversation would have ended there. Her father wasn't a mean man, but he expected a lot from people. If you were a member of his immediate family he expected much more. Which is why all of his children were top athletes and scholars." I'll be honest when my parents told me about you, I was nervous. I thought they'd pick some nerdy guy or even worse someone creepy. But I'm glad they picked you. My father loves you and his approval is tremendously difficult to obtain....the only other person he probably likes more than you was Jake." With that last comment, Leah took her shot savoring the taste of the tequila and loving the feeling of warmth as the alcohol spread through her body. The next hour turned into several more shots made by both parties as they grew more and more comfortable around each other. Leah couldn't explain why she felt at ease around David but since Jake's passing, it was one of the first times she had felt that way. Leah was not going to complain. After another two shots, Leah grabbed David's significantly larger and rougher hand before pulling him towards the dance floor. While the bar was slower than normal because there was still a large enough crowd where neither one of them would feel out of place. "Come dance with me!" She yelled over the music before making her way towards the middle of the crowd. Once the pair made it in the middle Leah threw her hair back and started swaying her hips in beat with the music. The loud bass thumped through the floor and thumped in waves through their bodies. Leah raised her hands above her head swaying and moving with the music before she beckoned David over to join her. David smiled hearing about her father. The man certainly liked him, and he was especially thankful for that after hearing it was difficult to reach. The pair then began drinking more and David became certain that running tomorrow would not be happening. But that didn't bother him, he was having a good time. Then she wanted to dance. David had not danced in a while, and frankly wasn't so great with it, but alcohol mixed with attraction could be a powerful thing. Rising from the bar stool, David could feel the sway of alcohol on his balance. The music was loud and inviting, and before long, he was dancing with Leah. At first, it was fun and playful. David would dance in a goofy way to get her to laugh, but then the mood began to change. Their bodies moved closer and his hands were on her waist. His large strong body pressed against hers and her curves felt amazing against him. David had not had this much fun in what felt like an eternity. All his stresses and reservations melted away as their bodies seemed to fuse together. The man had figured forming a bond with Leah would have been tough, but things seemed to be working so well. It crossed his mind that perhaps it was going too well, but he was in no mood to stop it. Leah could not help herself and laugh at David's awkward Dance moves. He appeared to feel a bit awkward but dance in a goofy way that made her laugh a little uncontrollable. It was something Jake would have done with her as well. In some ways, David and Jake seemed to have a bit in common. The pair had the same terrible dance moves, and it appeared now the same sense of humor. As the alcohol they had consumed filtered into their bloodstream the pair seemed to move closer and closer to each other. Leah pressed her breasts against David's firm chest as their hips swayed and ground against each other. Leah knew they would soon be crossing a boundary that they weren't prepared to cross, but the beauty did not care at that point. She was so far gone as she gave way to her primal emotions with lust being the primary emotion. The rational part of Leah's brain tried to convince her that what she was doing was wrong. David was there to comfort her and her sister but here she was in a bar, dirty dancing. Her hips swaying sexily and in tune with the music that bumped through the bar. In the morning Leah would try to blame the alcohol, the music, the atmosphere, and even the other people, but she knew exactly was she was about to do. Leah wrapped her slim and toned arm around David's neck and pulled the man closer to her. Their foreheads touched briefly as her blues eyes met his as their bodies continued to move in time with the beat. Without saying a word Leah tilted her head up and pressed her lips against David's. His stubble tickled against her smooth skin, but Leah loved the feeling. The kiss deepened as their passion and desire for each other was finally released. David's scent was intoxicating to Leah as her tongue slide into David's warm and wet mouth. A small moan coursed through Leah's body as she grabbed at David's chest with her free hand. Trying somehow to have their bodies pressed closer together. The buzz of the alcohol was warm and soothing to David, and it amplified the sensation he felt when her chest pressed against his. He could feel his head swim when she ground closer and pulled him nearer. She did not need to pull hard, he was already on his way. The heat from her body drew him in. Their lips met, pressing against each other. Then her tongue slid into his mouth and they began to play. David's heart beat wildly. He wasn't thinking of how this would affect his job or their relationship. This felt amazing, and he wanted more. David kissed her back, feeling as if they were the only two people in the bar. His manhood began swelling fast in his pants, pressing at the lower part of her abdomen. David could feel his libido rising fast. His hands reached from his swaying hips and around to her ass. Her curves were perfect, and his large hands eagerly squeezed her firm cheeks. His mind swirled with the kiss and the music. David had not felt this good in a long time. Leah enjoyed the feeling of David's firm body pressed against hers as the pair continued to sway and move in beat with the loud bass. The music thumped through her body as did her blood. She knew her parents would disapprove of what they were doing which made it all the more thrilling for Leah. The beauty never disobeyed her parents as a younger teenager and even now as she was ready to head off to college. Leah couldn't describe it, but David made her want to go wild. She had never met a man like him. He was calm and reassuring all the while being spontaneous and fun. Leah couldn't and wouldn't deny herself of David. Even in her drunken stupor, she knew she wanted him. Leah wanted all of him. She could feel his cock press against her abdomen as the man grew aroused by the soft touch of her hands, to her lips, and now her body pressed against his as she continued to push herself closer to him. What the girl really wanted was to find a nice secluded room and have her way with David. She had no idea what had come over her, but she needed him. That much was clear to Leah. The beauty pulled back slightly and looked into David's eyes. "I think we should leave...the pool house should be empty right now...and I know where my dad stashes his alcohol out there." She said clearly wanting to do more than drink and hang out. Leah's hand trailed down David's firm chest stopping just above his groin where this throbbing cock pressed against her trying to free itself from its denim prison. As he felt her breasts on his muscular chest, he knew this was a bad idea. But David was far from denying it. Their chemistry was like fireworks, and it had been so very long for him. Kissing her lips, he kept her held close. When their lips slowly parted, she spoke. Her, the pool house, and more alcohol. The combination sounded incredible. It seemed like no time at all when the Uber driver arrived and David was in the back with Leah. With his arm around her, the two stayed close. With no music or party atmosphere, it still felt like it was all around them. David's arousal was not fading either. His manhood remained strained and swollen in his pants, aching for release. Once the Uber driver dropped them off, the two saw the house had many lights out and seemed quiet. There was nothing stopping them from going to the pool house, and it seemed like they would go unnoticed. Together they continued through the lush green yard, through the fence, and into the pool house. Alcohol made the travel a bit bumpy, with each of them falling against each other at times, but it just resulted in more kissing and feeling. David's heart was pounding in his chest as they slipped into the pool house. It was a house in its own right with just more focus on the patio facing the pool. Inside there was a small living area, a kitchen, and then two guest rooms near the back. The man kissed Leah's neck and said "What drink are you feeling? And what game would you like to play to get us into something more comfortable?" He smiled and massaged his large hands up the curves of her sides. Leah followed behind David and hopped into the Uber that he ordered. The beauty laid her head on David's firm chest as they sped home. In no time they were they and once again Leah followed David as he led her towards the pool house. They entered and once again David's strong hands found their way towards Leah's waist. The way he held her was delicate but strong as he pulled her close. The girl couldn't help but elicit a little moan as David's lips pressed against her sensitive neck." I think the only thing I'm feeling is what's between your legs...fuck the drinks and fuck the games... I want you now." Leah stated as she grabbed David by his large hand and leading him towards the bigger bedroom. For the first time in her life, Leah knew what she wanted, and she wasn't going to wait to get it. The beauty opened the door and quickly pushed David onto his back and kicked the door closed behind her. "I don't know what about you drives me so wild, but I need more." Leah took a deep breath before she lifted her arms up and removed her shirt. Her brown hair falling back down and resting against her slim shoulders. Next, the beautiful girl removed her shoes before working on her pants. The woman bent over as she removed her pants. She moved slowly and deliberately teasing David as much as she could. Once they were taken off Leah stood in front of David in a sexy light pink pair of bra and underwear. They were lace and see through allowing David to see all of Leah. "Tell me what you want..." She stated wanting to hear if David wanted her as much as she wanted him. As she undressed, David joined her. Although he undressed a lot slower, not wanting to miss even one of her movements. He pulled his shirt up and over his head, exposing his toned and muscular chest, strong pecs, and large shoulders. The man let his chest hair grow as it pleased, making a furry uniform layer over his muscles. Once she was down to her Lacey pink underwear, David was sliding his sorts free. His boxer briefs were straining with his erect cock. The size showing he was thick and long, eight inches roughly. When she asked what he wanted, David grinned, motioning for her to come closer. He leaned up and pulled her closer by the hips. Bringing his lips near her ear, he whispered while his hands gently felt over her ass. "I want you to be in a daze, moaning and cumming around my cock in a way that leaves you breathless." With his last word, David bit her ear and gave her perfectly curved ass a firm spank. David was worked up, the head of his cock was staining his boxer briefs with precut. It had been so long since he last had sex, but regardless, she drove him wild. His hands went up to the back of her bra and undid it. He slid the straps off her shoulders and let her breasts free. In no time, his mouth was sucking on one of the nipples, pulling it into his mouth while his tongue licked it. The man felt a hard throb and felt a gush of precut leave his cock. He had never been so sexual aroused before. Leah took a moment to appreciate David's body. The way his muscles rippled every time he moved made the incoming freshman lose her mind. How could a guy be that nice and that hot? It was impossible but there he was sexy as ever with his erection pressed against his boxers. The fabric stretched across his groin not leaving much to the imagination. Leah couldn't wait until they boxers were on the floor, and she was on top of David riding his cock for all she was worth. Leah allowed David to pull her close and allow him to whisper in her ear. As the man's lips tickled her ear Leah felt a rush as his words turned her on. She could feel her stomach do loops as David's words did something to her. Leah could not describe the desire she felt for David at the moment. The best Leah could do to describe it is kind of like that feeling like you’re going over a hill, and you get that swoosh feeling in your stomach. IT was exactly what Leah felt for David at the moment. Her legs quivered in anticipation as David's skilled hands expertly unclasped her bra exposing her perky breasts to the world. Immediately David's mouth found its target and started to play and suck on the beauty's breast. Her pink nipple harden in his mouth as the girl felt her desire increase as his skilled tongue and lips continued to toy with her sensitive nipple. One thing Leah couldn't deny was her love for anything oral. Leah pressed her left hand against David's head and tangled her hand in his hair. She then pushed the man closer to her breast. Little moans escaping her lips as his tongue lapped at the sensitive nub and his teeth gently bit her. "Fuck David...." The moan out as her free hand slid down her body until her soft hand slid into her pink underwear. Leah could feel how wet she was just from anticipation and used the natural lubrication to gently rub her enlarged lips. Once she thoroughly teased herself Leah allowed one finger to push past her lips and slide into her wet and tight vagina. David began toying with her other nipple while both hands squeezed her ass cheeks. He sucked firmly on it and then licked the tip, really enjoying the size and perkiness of her breasts. Soon he could feel what seemed like a puddle around the head of his cock. David had no idea how much precut he had been leaking, but he was more aroused than he could ever remember being. That was when he realized he didn't have a condom. While he wasn't worried about cleanliness, he didn't want to knock up his so-called sister. He could have kicked himself. David hadn't bought condoms since roughly a month after the break-up. Knowing the two of them were at a point of no return, he decides he would pull out instead. It wasn't preferred, but it was better than risking it. Letting his lips leave her nipple, he saw Leah had been fingering herself. David reached down to the waistband of his boxers and began sliding them down. It caused his manhood to flex down until it became too low. His cock sprung upward quickly, clear precut soaking his thick flared and rounded tip. Eight thick many inches protruded from his small patch of dark hair. Beneath, his testicles were swollen in his scrotum aching to cum in the beauty until being empty. David then move his hands to her Lacey pink panties. They needed to go fast. Pinching the fabric, he slid them down her smooth thighs and let them fall around her ankles. A bit of precut leaked out of him, causing the rest to start running down his shaft. David was worked up bad. He was holding himself back, and his body was showing the strain. All Leah could do at the moment was let out a lust filled moans as David's expert tongue switched to her ignored nipple. His tongue flipped the sensitive nub as he did before toying with her. The sensation of his tongue, lips, and teeth on her body made the girl want to pin David down and drain his balls. She wanted every part of the handsome man that he would offer to her. Leah watched as David removed his underwear finally exposing his cock to the world. The large cock finally freed from its cloth prison. Leah could feel some of David's precut scattered against her stomach as the hard erection sprung back up. David's mouth continued to play with Leah's nipple as his rough hands gently grabbed her panties and slid them down her slim legs. Once Leah was completed naked she pushed David onto to his back by pressing her soft hands on his shoulders. The beauty kneeled in front of David as she gripped his thick eight-inch cock. If Leah were being honest with herself she had never been with a guy who was that big. Momentarily the girl found herself worrying about his size. Would he be too big to handle? Would he hurt her? In the back of her mind though she knew David would take his time and work with her. Leah leaned forward and pulled David's cock towards her mouth. The beauty stuck her tongue out and gently licked the head of David's cock tasting his precut. The girl ran her tongue down the length of his shaft following the thick vein on the underside of his cock towards his large balls. She used her hand and started to stroke the man slowly teasing his cock. Her warm and wet mouth found his balls and started to softly lick at his ball sack before taking his right testicle into her mouth. The beauty bathed his balls in her Sylvia before turning her attention to his other large testicle. Leah looked up at David and asked "Do you like that?" a smile spreading across her face. As Leah licked and sucked his testicles, David felt like a king. He could feel urges growing within him fast. The man wasn't sure if it was the alcohol, his attraction to her, or something in the air, but he didn't want to just fuck her. He wanted to empty every drop he had into each of her holes. David wanted cum to be leaking everywhere from her. Thinking about it made his blood pressure and heart rate rise, he felt the mood to get rough and a territorial nature grow. However, he held himself back. He didn't know her experience and didn't want to scare her off or get her pregnant. Slow and easy, he thought to himself. Her mouth was skilled and felt so good, but David wanted more. "Keep playing with me like that, and you'll end up with a mouth full of cum, beautiful" he smiled. With that, he playfully picked her lightweight frame up and laid her on her back. She looked amazing naked, and it made his testosterone boil. David spread her legs apart to expose her pussy. His large hairy cock pointed right at her pink hole, and he moved in until the head was smearing precut on her lips. David kissed her deeply, and while their tongues played, he reached down to grasp his many shaft. He eased his bare cock into her, feeling her tight lips squeezing around him feeling so warm. He moaned into the kiss, taking his time going further. David let her natural lubricant decide how far he went and how fast. Leah moaned as her skilled tongue continued to lap at his large and hairy testicles. Despite not having an incredible amount of experience with men Leah could tell one of her best talents had to do mainly with her mouth and tongue. She knew exactly what to do and how to do it. If she truly wanted too she could have a man cumming in a matter of minutes. Less if he was sexually frustrated. She liked hearing that David could barely control himself as she kneeled in front of him. Leah didn't protest or resist as David picked her up from on the ground and laid her down on the bed. She looked up at his large and masculine form as he stood over her. Everything about the man turned her on. David spread her legs open exposing her tight little pussy to him as he crawled over her. The beauty wrapped her arms around his neck as their lips connected, and the two lost themselves in deep passion. Leah moaned softly as David positioned himself at her tight hole smearing the thick head against her wet lips. The girl let out a small moan of pleasure as David's thick and many cock slowly pushed its way inside of her. Her tight walls clenching his cock as it eased its way inside of her. David took his time as the pair continued to kiss on the bed. Leah wrapped her slim and toned legs around David's waist and tried to push him in deeper. The two pulled apart as Leah felt David's full and large testicles press against her as he finally buried himself to the root. "Oh David..." Leah moaned out her hair splayed out under her as her soft hands roamed David's muscular back. David breathed heavily with his cock fully inside of Leah. She was tight and wetter than they would ever need. She felt like heaven. As he held onto her hips, the man began to pull out and then push back within her. His toes curled from the pleasure as he moaned. After several slow thrusts, he started to move faster. Bottoming out inside of her, he watched her perky tits bounce. The sight brought out a deep natural urge within him. He leaned in and made out with Leah. His heart was beating wildly. Feeling the beauty raw beneath him was the best way to get over a long dry spell. Although he was holding on hard to not finish too soon. After a while, he pulled out of her and sat up on the bed. Grabbing Leah, he pulled her on top of him and pulled her down on his cock. David began moving his hips up and down feeling his many cock slide in and out of her. In didn't take long at all for him to completely forget the two were trying to remain discrete in the pool house. Had they been in either of their rooms they'd be caught in a second from the noises, at least from her sister? But instead the two were fucking like animals and shielded from the distance from the houses. Leah let out small moans as David's thick cock stretched out her tight hole. She could feel him moving in and out of her his hands wrapped tightly around her slim hips. His balls slapped against her as her hands roamed his broad and muscular back. "David...." She moaned out as his many cock bottomed out inside of her. "Don't stop..." She whispered softly her nails digging into him back. She wrapped her legs tighter around him trying to keep his cock inside of her for as long as possible. Leah didn't have the most amount of experience as other girls, but she knew that David knew what he was doing. The pleasure he was exposing her to made her want more. Which is exactly what David was about to do to her. She was surprised by his move as he effortlessly grabbed her tiny body and slid her down his cock once more. She started to ride David aiding him as he started to fuck her harder and more forcefully. "Fuck..." She moaned out as her arms wrapped around his neck, and she pulled him in closer. "Fuck me harder..." She whispered as she pulled him in for another passionate kiss. Leah knew there was a chance they could be caught. Which only made their night of hot sex seem even more exciting. Without waiting for David to react Leah pushed the muscular man onto his back and placed her hands on his chest. She needed more and she couldn't wait. Using her legs she started to lift herself up hard and fast. Leah could feel his thick cock sliding in and out of her stretching her and opening her. She tightened herself around him as she leaned over and started to kiss David once more. Her delicate hands ran through his chest hair playing with it before curling her fingers in the thick patch of hair. David watched Leah's perky tits bounce as she rode him. It felt so good to be having sex again. Well over an entire summer without it have driven the man pretty crazy, even though he hadn't actively been seeking it out. His large hands felt up the curves of her slim waist, not holding too tightly. David wanted her to have free access to riding his cock. Each time she bottomed out on him, he could feel her round ass on his testicles and the head of his cock being squeezed by the entrance to her cervix. After fucking like this for some time, David could feel cum swelling fast inside of him. Since he didn't want to accidentally cum in her unprotected pussy, he pushed her onto her back and quickly moved over her. Sliding his manhood back into her warm hole, David fucked her hard and fast. After a while, his orgasm hit. David pulled out just in time, his thick cock spewing rope after rope of cum onto her pussy and stomach. He moaned deeply in pleasure and then wiped the tip of his cock on her inner thigh before pushing back into her. Although he knew he'd be getting soft soon, he still had enough energy to make sure she had a hard orgasm if she hadn't already. Leah let out throaty moans as David's cock continued to piston in and out of her tight little hole. She couldn't control herself. Something about the hairy and muscular man drove her wild. And if Leah had it her way she'd have David's cock continuously fucking her until she came seven or eight times in a night. Although she knew that would be physically impossible. Her hips rode him grinding on his cock. Leah would use her toned legs and lifted herself up and slid back down. She could feel her own climax as her tight pussy lips gripped David's cock as she continued to impale herself on him. Once again she allowed him to flip her over her onto her back and unleashed a load of sperm from his balls. She could feel every thick rope of cum as he sprayed her body with his seed. The cum was hot to the touch as it stayed on her body. The girl let out another moan as David slide back inside of her. Even with the momentary loss of his cock Leah was still close to her own orgasm. He opened her up again and started to pump his cock in and out of her. Leah used one hand and pinched her pink nipple as her perky breast bounced around. Her free hand slid down to her clit and she gently rolled and played with the hard and sensitive nub. "Oh, God... David... Harder!" Her pussy walls clenched as she felt her orgasm rise and crash. She felt wave after wave of pleasure as David's skilled and girth cock slid in and out of her. Her back arched against the bed as she moaned out in pleasure. "Jesus..." The girl moaned out as she laid back down her orgasm ebbing away. After feeling her cum around his cock, David felt great. However, fucking her after cumming and feeling her squeeze around him made his cock feel extremely sensitive. As he pulled out, that brought out a deep groan and made his body shiver. Laying beside her, even the draft in the room on his cock made him shiver. But he was a very satisfied man. It had been a long time since he had a release like that, and he really needed it. David brought his big arm around Leah and pulled the small naked girl close. He was going to make a joke about this not being part of the services her mother was paying him for, but he decided against it. Instead, he smiled and said "Yeah, tomorrow morning I won't be going for a run" he laughed. David knew he'd want to get all the sleep he could before the day of shooting. Running could wait. He then wondered how this would impact his relationship with Leah. Of course, this would be kept secret from the rest of her family, but was this a one time thing or something they would be concealing further? He didn't know, and didn't want to kill the mood by asking. David figured things would happen as they happen. However, he definitely wanted to enjoy more nights buried deep and raw in her pussy. Leah moaned softly as she felt David slide out of her. If anyone had asked the beautiful girl what was going to happen when she went out with David that night this is not what she would have thought. Leah thought at the most, they'd get drunk together and send the entire night dancing with each other. Hell, she would have even said there was going to be flirting, but sex was not on her mind. Regardless she did not feel regretful. Her primary thought was when is it going to happen again. She curled her body against David's as he pulled her in to cuddle. His strong arm pulled her close to him as she laid her head and soft hand on David's hairy chest. As the two lay there she thought about her family inside the main house just a few feet away. If her Dad woke up and found out they had just had sex she wasn't sure what he would do. "I don't think I'll be going either. I think you worked me out enough for the week." Leah said laughing a bit." But could you do me a favor...and grab me a towel. You made a mess on me if you forget." Leah said laughing as she started to push against David playfully. "I am still going to watch you and my dad at the gun show tomorrow. We used to go as a family and I know it would be really important to him if we all went." David smiled and rolled to the edge of the bed. Grabbing a towel from the shelf, he handed it to her and joked "The mess had to go somewhere." He listened to her talk about the charity event and said "It should be fun. I've never shot a real gun before, so hopefully I can do well enough to not get last place. But I'm really hoping I won't be distracted out there imagining our time tonight" He laughed and wrapped an arm around her. David wanted to just close his eyes and relax in the bed, but that was a good way for them both to get caught. So after a while, the pair dressed and then snuck back into the house. They were silent in every aspect possible. They didn't talk, their footsteps were soft, and the latches to the doors were opened and closed ever so slightly. Taking a few Motrin and drinking water before bed proved to be beneficial. When David woke to his alarm, he didn't feel too bad. He wished he could sleep in more, but he didn't have a throbbing headache like he expected. After a hearty breakfast, the family packed into the SUV and their dad drove them all to the private sportsman's club. Mike drove, Beverly sat shotgun, and David sat in the back middle between Leah and Emma. In the trunk were the firearms and a large duffle bag Mike had brought along. All the way until they parked and got out, David wondered if any of them knew what happened last night. The two of them were cautious, but then again, they were pretty drunk and horny. That always complicated things. Leah laughed along with David as he cleaned her up, and they laid in bed. It was nice being held by someone who felt so powerful and strong. Leah was the type of girl who didn't need to rely on a man, but it was nice to feel that way. They headed back to the house and made sure to keep as quiet as they could possibly be. Leah slept peacefully that night and got up quickly got ready in the morning. It was a silent ride to the private sportsman's club. Leah leaned against David slightly as her parents talked and drove in the front seats. She hoped no one heard them last night but more importantly, Leah wanted to know when it was going to happen again. Leah had never experienced an orgasm like that and she wanted more. The only question was how it was going to happen and when. She'd bring it up to David at some point.----Emma watched David and Leah as they drove towards the private sportsman's club. Leah had only spoken to him one day, and they were already close. If she wanted to get just as close she'd have to start making sure she got more time with David. The rest of the drive was quiet until the pulled into the parking lot. Emma immediately grabbed David and wrapped her arm around his. Mike yelled behind them and said "Don't go off too far. The competition starts in about 20 minutes." He said before going off with Beverley and Leah inside. Leah looked at them for a moment but decided that it would be best to talk to David alone about what happened the night before. Emma and David walked around the length of the land. "So what happened last night? I didn't realize you and Leah would be out so late. I waited up for a while but once you guys stayed out past one I just went to sleep. Maybe we could go out a do something alone later tonight. Or tomorrow.whenever you want really!" Emma said excitedly. Sitting in the back row of the SUV, David could feel Leah leaning against him. He smiled, but didn't say anything. He didn't want to make anything too obvious to anyone. Their time in the pool house would have to remain a secret. When Mike parked, David stepped out and felt Emma pulling him over to an open field which appeared to be used for archery classes. He knew Emma was excitable, but did not expect the string of sentences. David smiled and said "Yeah last night was a late one getting to know your sister. I wish I could have slept in more" he laughed. He didn't want to give out too much information right now. In his mind that would prevent any lies from being easily noticed." But yeah, I'm down for something tonight. Did you have anything in mind?" They walked past a foam deer that was in a grazing position. "Maybe a movie or going out?" Time seemed to fly by talking with her, and before long, Mike cupped his hands around his mouth and yelled across the field "Practice time, David!" Standing at the firing line, Mike said "This event usually has a fair amount of new shooters, so don't feel intimidated by the competition." He handed David the shotgun and a long yellow shell. "Alright, so drop that in the top chamber, close it, and aim somewhere out in the tree line." David adjusted the large-pocketed vest Mike had given him and readied the firearm. Aiming out across the field, he pulled the trigger. It felt like a sledgehammer had been swung into his shoulder. David doubled back feeling winded and sore. "Jesus Christ... Some heads up would be nice." Mike laughed, and after regaining his composure he said "Alright, that was the high-powered stuff for Geese, Turkeys, and Pterodactyls. Everything we shoot today will be a lot lighter and comfortable." David rubbed his shoulder and Mike handed him a box of shorter green shells to put in his vest pockets. He then began practicing on the orange clays. Mike instructed him, and before long David was able to consistently hit the majority of the clays. Mike was impressed, and David really enjoyed the sport now that it wasn't injuring his shoulder. With practice finished, everyone met in the clubhouse for the event introduction and rules. David was introduced to some of Mike's friends as his nephew, knowing they knew his family too well to call him his son. After chatting, it was David and Mike's time to get started. Loading up in a golf cart, They went to the first stage in the woods. Each of them took turns shooting at two pairs of clays that seemed to fly in all directions. It was hard, but David hit two out of the four while Mike hit three. The judge at that stage marked down the points and said they could go to the next stage. Emma couldn't help but smile as David suggested some things for them to do once the event was over. "I think a movie would be great. Maybe we can grab dinner afterwards? I feel like since you were out with Leah all last night it's my turn." They continued to walk around until Mike called David over for the start of the competition. They walked back towards her father Emma pouting slightly. She wanted to be able to spend more time with David but clearly, that wouldn't happen now. Emma knew nothing about guns. Her father, for the most part, kept it a thing between him and Jake. Although she suspected it would be a thing to bond Mike and David together. The loud noise of the gun firing made Emma jump as David pointed the gun toward the tree line and shot the gun. Emma couldn't help but laugh along with her father as David rubbed his shoulder." Dad that wasn't very nice." She said feeling bad after releasing how much it actually probably hurt David. "You're right sweetie. But I couldn't resist it. I won't do it again." He said before turning his attention back to David. Emma continued to watch as David became more and more skilled with the gun he was wielding. Leah and their mother came over after their own walk and headed down towards where the competition would be held. "I'll see you at the end, David." Emma said before going over to give the man a hug. "You'll be amazing." She ran off to go with her mother and her sister Leah. The two men completed the first part of the competition and moved onto the next one. The women followed Emma's heart pounding as she watched them move on. "I'm so nervous right now Leah... I seriously hope they win. David really deserves it." She said before quickly adding in" And Dad too..." She said before turning back to the competition. Leah raised her eyebrow at her sister but didn't say didn't say anything. David smiled and hugged Emma back, appreciating the confidence. The father and son made their way through each stage of the woods, finding each one had a different pattern of how the clays were thrown into the air. Some flew across their view, others flew away, and some went straight up. David wondered when the clays would start flying toward them. At one of the stages, David fired at the last set of clays, breaking both before they hit the ground. He opened the breach of his shotgun and pulled out the fired shells. David smiled as Mike walked over to him "You're a natural shooter. The judge doesn't have all the scores from the other stages, but he said we are one of the few groups to break all eight here." He patted David on the back, and they loaded up the cart for the next stage. After almost two more hours of shooting, all the groups had cycled through the stages. Mike and David were feeling pretty good and knew they at least didn't embarrass themselves. While the judges met to compile all the scores for the announcement, the groups met with their families in the banquet hall for lunch. David sat down between Emma and Leah, with Mike and BEV across from them. Mike was talking with Beth on how their chances were pretty good and how they could very-well win the prize money. David looked at the sisters and asked "So what did you two do while we were out there? It feels like I've been wandering the woods all day." He smiled. When lunch was wrapping up, the host got on the stage and thanked everyone for coming. He talked about the history of the charitable organization and how it has grown over the years. He then said "And now for what everyone is waiting for..." A judge handed him a sealed envelope. The host opened it and read "In third place, for a prize of two annual club memberships, is Tim and Stacy!" There was applause as the pair stood up from their table. The host announced second place and their prize of $5,000. "And now for our first place winners, and the prize of $10,000... Mike and David Henderson." Mike laughed, and the two stood, coming up to the stage to hold the oversized check for a picture. After the ceremony, Mike was still beaming with excitement after talking with everyone for a long while. Even on the drive home he was all smiles and couldn't wait to tell the other attorneys back at the office. Emma and Leah both clapped loudly once David and their father were pronounced the winners of the competition. Neither one had realized how good David would be at using guns. In fact, he could have given Jake a run for his money. Not that either one of them would have mentioned it. Mostly because it was too painful to talk about their brother. Their entire family missed him terribly, but it would do no one good if they kept bringing it up everything something that could have involved him was brought up. Emma hadn't seen her Dad this happy since Jake passed away. She smiled as she watched her Dad from the back seat. It was really nice to see how much David and her Dad had bonded after only spending a couple of days or so together. They pulled up to their house and Emma's mom and dad grabbed all of their belongings from the car and instructed the rest of them to head back inside. Leah looked back at David smiling before she stated "I'm going to bed for a bit before dinner. I had a long night." Emma's sister walked upstairs to her bedroom. Once Leah got there she texted David to come to see her. They hadn't really talked since they both had to get up so early, but she didn't know when they'd get the chance to actually have a conversation. "David I'll see you later. Don't forget we agreed to go to the movies later." Emma reminded him before going to her bedroom to charge her phone. Back upstairs Leah started to change into something more comfortable. Spending the entire day at the club was not how Leah would have picked but at least it was over. She could finally relax. Leah changed into comfortable booty shorts and a T-shirt before she heard a knock on her door. "Come in..." She said before sitting on her bed.

Stand-In Brother (DTH & Izzy325)|rating:4.0

For the Tribe! (Closed)

Eight months. It had only been eight months since Drug and his brother Keokuk were forced to flee from their birth-tribe, the Thunder plain, but to them, it seems like years. The pair of young orcs were brash and brave, they had dared try and seduce the chieftain's daughter in a bid to gain power. It had failed ultimately, but while the pair hadn't really broken a law, the wrath of a father orc was not something that would be held back by mere logic. The twins had been banished from their tribe and forced to wander alone as outcasts. Normally orcs who left the tribe would be called by their clan-name, Drug would have been Drug Thunder plain had he not been exiled, for example. However, with no tribe daring to take them in the pair were simply Drug and Keokuk. For weeks, they traveled, sharpening their hunting skills as they lived off the land and becoming hardened warriors as they fought off other exiled orcs. The pair did well for what they were, headstrong young orcs who believed they owned the world, but they couldn't truly thrive. Drug and Keokuk lost what little fat they had in these harsh times, growing harder and adding more bulky muscle as they grew into adults, no longer just simply young buck-orcs. Drug was the taller of the pair at 7'6 he had a more robust frame with dark green skin and a pair of intimidating tusks set into his lower jaw. Drug was more of a warrior, blunt and to the point he wore heavy leather armor and carried a nasty looking war-maul which he used with surprising skill for one so young. Kg was blunt, didn't often lie, but he was also no fool, he had an instinctual cunning that would often surprise those who thought he was just another dumb brute. His brother on the other hand was quite different, Keokuk was shorter, only around 7'1 which was pretty standard for an orc. His frame was well toned and muscled but not to the degree of his brother, Keokuk had long ropy arms with some real agility to his frame. His tusks were smaller, though he wore a long braided ponytail instead of simply cutting his hair short like Drug. Keokuk was more soft-spoken, he rarely gave his opinion of anything and preferred to let his brother do the talking only to talk to Drug later on when the two could pool their differing ideals and viewpoints. The brothers often fought or at least disagreed, it made many underestimates them and believe they were easy to separate, however Drug and Keokuk simply understood that they could fight all they wanted as long as they came together on important topics. At one such juncture the pair realized they wouldn't make it very long on their own, sitting around a camp fire they began to hatch an idea, one that would hopefully shake up the other orc plans and put them back in a comfortable position. Drug and Keokuk began to reach out to their fellow exiles, offering them a deal of sorts to share power and ally with them if they ever needed help. At first no one took them up on this offer, but the elderly disgraced shaman Ran came forwards and lend his knowledge of the spirits and the land itself. As an older orc Ran was not as strong as he used to be, but the mystic connection he had to the world itself was valuable, all he asked was a chance to retire in peace and perhaps train up a new shaman if he found someone worthy. Right away Keokuk and Ran hit it off, the old orc soon mentored Keokuk in the basics, giving the twins a foundation to build on. Though disgraced, Ran's name carried a lot of weight, soon other orcs began to come to them. Earn the Wanderer, Belg ash and several more until their number was thirty strong. Together they formed a small tribe of sorts, they looked for merchants top help them set up trade and were in turn noticed by a group of outcast goblins. Let by a frightfully infamous trickster named Trig, the goblins made themselves at home, twenty more green skins joined the tribe and caused it to swell. Officially orcs tolerated goblins, they were crafty and quite useful, but they were never considered honorable. If not for their better reputations among human cities the orcs would ignore them completely, but King and Keokuk saw an opportunity. Like them these goblins were exiles, more social than orcs the goblin outcasts had been together for years, frightened and alone. They needed protection, which the budding tribe could give well enough. Trig was quite happy to join up with the twins, he and his people set to work helping the orcs design new huts and scheme up ways for them to increase their wealth. Krug and Keokuk barely trusted Trig at all, though orcs and goblins shared a common ancestor. Legend says that thousands of years ago the orcs broke off, during a great crisis, half of their tribes went underground to try and rebuild their numbers. These orcs grew smaller over time, gaining large bat like ears and the ability to see easily in caves which they mastered. Goblins in other words. The two races never truly got along, the orcs refused to grant the goblins honor and the goblins didn't bother trying to understand the word at all. The rift was never mended, but orcs and goblins still considered each other brothers and sisters of a sort, if given the choice they would always try to aid the green skin race as a whole. What Drug and Keokuk were doing was unprecedented, making a mixed race tribe, it was unthinkable to any but those who were desperate. However, they were gaining number and power, that power attracted other green skins but not the lowly goblins. Trolls and ogres were the other green skin races, though commonly ignored by orcs and goblins since they were far younger and lacked a culture of their own. Trolls were the result of an orc and goblin breeding with each other, they had long arms and powerful frames but were not quite as intelligent. Trolls typically stood at a mighty eight feet tall with light blue skin, their strength surpassed even the orcs, but that was aided by an odd mutation that caused them to heal at an accelerated rate. Trolls were a tough and hearty breed, they soon spread just about everywhere, either living as monsters or muscle for higher. Drug and Keokuk managed to attract two such trolls, Thud and Tumble, each wielded a mighty war-axe that could cleave an orc in two. Decked out in bone crafted armor the trolls were a fearsome force to be sure. Thud and Tumble weren't horribly bright, but they knew a good thing when they saw one. The final member of the tribe came in the last few months as the newly formed tribe settled into the idea of a joint green skin way of like. He was a true monster, even the two giant trolls felt fear at the sight of this brute. He was taller than either of them with layer on layer of tough rocky skin and enough muscle to level an entire village. Standing at a whopping nine feet tall was Are the ogre, or at least that is what he claimed to be called. Ogres happened when orcs or goblins were bred with trolls, instead of resulting in an odd half-breed or just more trolls, it gave them a giant hulking beast. Ogres lacked the regenerative abilities of their troll parents, but they had extremely tough, dark green almost brown skin which they could toughen further by eating dirt and rocks, something they often did to stave off hunger. Over time ogres gained small rock like growths over their bodies. Ogres made trolls look smart by comparison and Are was no different, he only knew three words "I am Are!" which he would bellow loud enough to pop eardrums as he raced to battle. The tribe managed to subdue the ogre by hiding out of sight and then throwing mud into his eyes. Blinded the ogre lashed and thrashed about until he began to tire, at which point Tumble and Thud managed to knock the beast out, but not without smashing the dull sides of their axes into the confused brute's head several times. When he woke up Are was treated to a meal of two roasted deer and the offer to join this little tribe. Impressed that such tiny, weak creatures managed to beat him the ogre agreed to become part of the tribe. He still never learned to say any more words, but he understood well enough to take orders. Surprisingly Are proved to be loyal to a fault, though somewhat unreliable when it came to remembering details he would thunder on towards his objective until he had it or caused enough damage that the rest of the tribe could pick through the chaos and come out ahead. Now eight months later Keokuk and Drug sat at the seat of power, a budding tribe was at their fingertips. They claimed a large section of land near a mountain lake and only a couple miles from a human town. The twins named their tribe Forgotten blade as they were all considered dead by their original tribes, but they still had their weapons and an edge to be used. The Forgotten blade gained a reputation for allying with rogues and other suspect characters, even gaining a strong trade of black-market valuables through Trig and his goblins. However, there was still a problem. The Forgotten blade lacked females, almost all the green skin races valued their females and kept them out of harms way, except for the trolls and ogres of course who simply didn't care. But if the tribe was to grow and spread, they would need females. No other green skin tribe would touch them much less offer up their females, which led the brothers to the desperate realization that half-orcs were better than no orcs at all, and so they began to set their sight on their human neighbors as well as another other race they came across. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame) {"light box_close": "Close", "light box_next": "Next", "light box_previous": "Previous", "light box_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "light box_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "light box_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "light box_full_screen": "Full screen", "light box_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "light box_download": "Download", "light box_share": "Share", "light box_zoom": "Zoom", "light box_new_window": "New window", "light box_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"} Centuries ago, the world knew of an ancient, powerful race that dominated the world through the shadows. These female-only beings, known as elves, were beings who possessed magical abilities from the planet itself. They could manipulate the world around them and drew wonders from all other forms of life. Though humans were able to reproduce magic, they were never able to keep up with the ability of the elves. Despite having such a powerful force of nature, the elves had chosen a life of seclusion. They did not want to get involved with any other races, which they deemed as inferior. If they did, then the elf bloodline would eventually mend with others, and the elves could not allow that. Then, a great disturbance woke the elves from the homes of their tree-homes. An undead had obtained the Eternal Glacier, a magical crystal that fell from the skies. It shined with a brilliant blue hue, though its light was anything but hopeful. With the crystal brought the ability to alter reality itself. Anything this undead man looked at could change its state into something else. He could annihilate an entire army with the wave of his hand, causing the army to disappear with no proof of their existence. While this caused great concern among many people of the planet, a skilled group of humans were able to strike and kill the undead man from afar, shattering the crystal into many pieces. The undead man's pathetic death is precisely why his name was never recorded in history. He was just an incapable man with an extraordinary amount of power. Humans then possessed the shards of the Eternal Crystal. News spread of the human's triumph, and the heroes marched back to the human capital of Gladstone. Word had spread far too much, and before the heroes could return to Gladstone, they were attacked by peoples of different races. One raid after another, the heroes lost their crystals, and their pride. When they appeared at the gates of Gladstone with not one shard of the Eternal Glacier in their hands, they vanished, never to be seen in the human capital city again. Now, different races had possessed these strange crystals, though the powers of these crystals were not as strong as the Eternal Glacier itself. Instead, the shards held fractions of its ability. One shard could alter time, and another would be able to materialize matter out of nothing. While far weaker than the original Eternal Glacier, the shards were equally potent. War had emerged and many fought with each other, spilling blood and spreading fire to crops. It was then when the ancient elves awoke, realizing the dire situation of the world that was perhaps worse than the situation with the undead man. They raised up their armies and using nature as protection and their magical fuel, the elves invaded forts and cities of these various races until all the shards belonged to the elves. Seeing the terrible sight that had brought this, the elves decided to unite all but one shard together to reform the Eternal Glacier. The elves used the Eternal Glacier's ability to alter reality to create a separate realm where they could forever be alone. Yet, they left behind one shard and gave it to an elf. This wood elf's name was EDA. She was a potent magic user able to summon forth tsunamis and tornadoes, and was considered a one-woman army. She was the perfect candidate to leave behind on Earth in case the elves ever wanted to return to Earth. Using her shard, EDA had mended the crystal shard into her body, until even her heart was woven around the shard. The shard's ability was simple. It could open a gateway into the realm of the elves. EDA would often report back to the elves. She informed them about the situation on Earth, and if the elves were ever required to come back on Earth. The citrus-haired girl at above on a tree. She was casually chewing on an apple, while idly kicking her feet in the air. Her curious eyes looked down at the pathway below. It carved through SHA'DAL Forest, and served as a trade route. There were many traders that came by, and EDA would wait there to overhear any potential conversations. That was how she learned of the events of the world. It wasn't until she heard some heavier trotting until she pursed her lips. The curvy elf stood up on the branch of her tree. It didn't sound like casual traders... so who was it? The wood elf made sure to conceal herself through the leaves of the tree. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)In some fool's imagination this could be called an army, barely twenty orcs followed by ten goblins and a single, very annoyed looking ogre. It was certainly not a force to be taken lightly, but any true military would give it a good run for its money. The mixed bag of green skinned races were led by Kurt who had a good head for battles, in spite of his warrior nature and aggressive disposition the large orc was oddly calm when he got into a fight and channeled his rage effectively. This made him the perfect leader when they went out on these little raids into the surrounding territory. Keokuk would be left with the remainder of the tribe which was little more than a handful of orcs, a mess of goblins and two trolls. There was some worry they would in turn be attacked but the crafty goblins made sure to lay down traps in key locations, the shaman Ran would also be a great boon in defending as his magics combined with Keokuk's will be quite deadly. There was also the two trolls who would make any true attacks incredible hard to begin with. Perhaps not the most ideal conditions but until the tribe grew it was the best they could do. Like many times before the small group of raiders headed out towards one of the outlying human settlements. They had often gone in to take resources and food to help in the building of their tribe, but this time their target was something else all together. Women. The two brothers needed as many women of healthy age and body that they could find, that was the mission of this raid. Kurt led his troops down a large pathway, cut into the countryside by the countless wagon wheels of traders. As much as the orc liked to the element of surprise on his side, his troops were very few, and he could not risk them getting hurt if they went right through the thick forests. Are also was a problem when it came to stealth, ogres were unparalleled when raw destruction was the goal but every step he took shook the ground which made sneaking nearly impossible. It was a risky ploy that Kurt was planning on using, but they did not have the time to think up something more elegant. They would assault from the north in broad daylight, something the humans would not be expecting. Are would charge in from the east, the giant beast crushing and destroying all in his path. This would cause the townspeople to try to flee him and hopefully bring human women right into Kurt's group which will be picking up a few things while Are was unleashed. Hopes were high and Kurt kept them that way with a few grunts of encouragement. No orc was particularly happy about having a human for a mate, but it was better than none at all for these outcasts who would have normally died childless. Marching on under the canopy of trees, the little group were nearing the settlement, the closer they got, the more solemn the orcs became as they knew battle was awaiting them. The only real exception was Are who was muttering something in the impossible grunts of ogres. Excitement and bloodlust boiled in these orcs as they anticipated the coming fight and the rewards that would be had afterward. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)The girl's emerald eyes scanned the tribe of beasts below, all marching in an orderly fashion. What were they doing?! This was a time of peace and prosperity. The Eternal Glacier no longer existed, as far as the world was concerned. There was no need to fight, though when the wood elf looked into the eyes of the beasts, she saw a strange motivation that could not be easily quelled. She pressed her mint lips together in deep thought. What would she do? The matter didn't seem too out of hand that she needed to summon her fellow elves from another realm. As the army passed her, EDA realized that the group was no larger than thirty men. It was sizable, though the wood elf was sure that she would be able to defeat them. As soon as the last few soldiers walked past her tree, the wood elf hopped down from her tree and landed with a graceful step. "Halt!" She demanded of the army that had their back turned to her. She pointed her index finger out at them, and a small ember emerged from her fingertip. It blazed and grew stronger, while still being easily manipulated and controlled by the citrus-haired girl. "Up ahead is a human encampment. And by the looks of things... you bunch don't appear to be friendly." She declared as if she were a judge sentencing criminals. "Leave, or be tarnished." This was the first time that EDA had revealed herself to any other living being. To many people, the elves vanished from the face of the Earth with the Eternal Glacier. And yet, here was one... appearing before a group of determined orcs, goblins, and trolls. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)At the sound of the voice the entire raiding party froze, one by one the orcs and goblins turned around to see what was going on behind them. To their collective shock they found an odd looking human with what seemed to be magic pointed in their direction. Orcs by nature didn't trust the magic of other races, most tribes taught that it was a foul and evil thing that perverted the spirit of the land and that of their ancestors. Kurt didn't care much about that, but what he did care about what the fact that this strange little human was pointing deadly fire-magic at him and his little party of raiders. Stepping forwards Kurt pushed through the small mob of orcs and goblins to lock eyes with the magic user. He was far from ignorant of the deadly power she held in his hand, but Kurt had been challenged by a little waif of a human, and he would not back down. Dropping a hand down to his weapon he studied the creature, the longer he stared at her the more he began to realize that this was no human. The pointed ears and slight body frame were almost alien, it reminded Kurt of stories the elders told when he was young, about a strange race known as elves who suddenly vanished. They had been a frightfully powerful race who both the humans and orcs feared as they were almost unrivaled in their ability to control magic"I am Kurt." He stated in a low grunting tone "These are my warriors. All of them. My tribe is small and weak, I intend to make it strong. But your little elf are standing in my way. I will not let you condemn my people to a slow death." as he spoke Kurt made a few subtle motions. While one hand rested on his weapon, ready to be drawn for an attack, his other sat against his side, twitching back a bit as he motioned for his warriors. Without a sound the goblins began to fall back behind their giant orc cousins, using them as shields. But they did not dear up for a fight, instead the goblins stealthily slipped into the underbrush and kept themselves hidden as they flanked the elf from the forest. They remained hidden as Kurt continued to throw words at the elf and growl, trying to keep her attention. "You dare! Child of a dead race! My tribe is dying, and you dare act so superior?!" Kurt was practically foaming at the maw as he raged at the elf, it was quite a good show and Kurt was a surprisingly adept actor as he played up the 'horrible savage' role which most races saw orcs as. Then when he was sure he bought enough time he shouted "Arrears!" which would just sound like a roar of rage to any who didn't know better. Looming over the orcs was the massive figure of the ogre, the beast lumbered forwards and brought his massive club to bare. With a bellow that shook the very trees themselves Are brought his club down, slamming it into the ground and creating a small localized quake. Some orcs stumbled but most had been prepared and held their ground, unsheathing their weapons and preparing to follow up the attack, if the goblins failed that is. Using the surprise of the ogre's minor quake the goblins acted, throwing nets and bolas from all sides at the elf as they intended to bind her completely. With any luck she wouldn't be able to get off so much as a spell, which would mean that more green skins would survive this encounter. However, it would come at a cost, unless the humans were deaf they would hear Are's great battle-roar and no doubt bolster their defenses or at the very least send a scouting party which would make Kurt's entire plan useless. But at the moment that didn't matter, Kurt would have to survive the demonic magic of the elf before he could think of trying to take on the humans. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)EDA watched as the goblins ran behind the larger orcs. At the corner of her eyes, and using her ears, she could hear the goblins scatter into the forest. However, she decided to muse Kurt and look his way. The wood elf listened in silence to his declaration. However, when she saw that a large beast was about to slam the club down on the floor, her eyes widened. She pointed her finger towards the sky, and fire scattered in all directions just as Are slammed its club onto the ground. Flames spread through the area, burning any net that would try to capture her, while possibly burning some goblins and orcs. Eda was not unaffected by the earthquake. She tried to hold her balance but fell on her butt. Even if the elf did fall, she was sure that the small army would be occupied with her fire spell. There EDA was, in front of the army with her delicate legs spread and her violet mage cloak covering all of her important parts. The army would be able to make out her nice, luscious thighs and her curvy hips. The elf's large breasts jiggled until the earthquake finally settled. The citrus-haired girl winced, but finally got back onto her feet. She held a hand up to the sky. Immediately, a column of earth emerged from beneath her feet and elevated the elf far above the trees. She crossed her arms under her breasts, causing them to perk out a bit. The elf smiled confidently. If Are chose to strike the ground again, then the column of earth would shatter and send bits of rock in every direction. The tribe would be exposed to the debris. Meanwhile, the goblins did not have the position to send a net over her considering how high she was... or at least that was what she believed." I act superior because I am, Kurt." Another flame appeared on her fingertip. "Our elves have moved away from this tainted land, though they have left me here to patrol the planet. Can you imagine? A single elf watching over the entire world." EDA's elvers pride had gotten the best of her. "I can call my fellow elvers people back into this realm if I wanted to. And if I did, do you think you'd be able to fight them?" She chuckled. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)The raw magic power on display was awe-inspiring, even Kurt for all his bluff and rage felt a spark of terror deep in his heart. He could practically hear the gears in the heads of his warriors as they tried to figure their chances against such odds. The goblins had scattered the moment their toys were burned, running in different directions as they hid in the trees and shrubs, leaving their orc cousins to face the elf alone. Kurt's mind spun as he mentally tallied each and every threat that he saw flash before his eyes. If the elf was telling the truth there could be an army of magical super-warriors baring down on him. However, if he could manage to catch her, they could learn so much from her, the raw manipulation of magic could enhance Ran and his brother's understanding of magic and boost the orcs as a whole into a new age of power. Kurt could not let this chance slip through his fingertips. Glancing over to Are who was busy studying his club, thinking that he in fact made the pillar of stone rise up. The orcs themselves began to move backwards, all except for Kurt who stood in defiance of the elf as a snarl crossed his green lips." Arg, push it over." He growled, catching the ogre's attention and drawing the giant's eyes away from his weapon. Kurt may not be a mage, but he was a strategist, he could see that the pillar was unstable and guessed that the elf was smart enough to try and neutralize Are's strength. If the ogre had been just an ogre it might have worked, burying the beast under mounds of rock, but that monstrous power was guided by a greater mind. Are moved forwards and placed a hand on the pillar and then just pushed it over, away from the army where the falling rocks would do no harm. There were a few muffled cries as the hidden goblins dived for cover but beyond that the gamble paid off. The elf of course would fall, unless she could suddenly sprout wings that is. Kurt shouted for nets to be ready, and the goblins were quick on their feet, nets blooming everywhere across the treetops as they each aimed and readied themselves for the elf, making sure that no matter where she fell she would get tangled. To make matters worse for her, several bolas were fired off, aimed at her form so she would be forced to deal with one or the other in the hopes that with so many threats one would tie her up. The orcs themselves also spread out, still clearly afraid of the elf but if they thinned out their ranks it would be much harder to kill them all with a tossed fireball. Kurt was quick to organize them, he hoped she would get tripped up, but he was not about to leave everything to chance. If this failed he would simply try again. However, in the back of his mind he reminded himself that human forces could come and find them here at any time, they had to be fast or lose this rare opportunity for good. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)EDA loved the ability to strike fear into even the mighty orcs. At that moment, the orcs realized that no matter how strong and violent they were, they would stand no chance against her. In fact, the sight of terror excited the elf. The army would scatter and tell tales about the mighty elvers race, and EDA would ascend into infamy. She loved the idea of that very much. She puffed out her chest and was ready to reign fire down on the inferior races. Then, Kurt gave Are a command. The prideful elf snapped out of her trance and looked down at them, only to realize that Are began to push down the pillar with his own hands. "H-huh?" EDA was caught off by the simple, yet efficient planning of Kurt. As the tower leaned, the wood elf crouched down and grabbed onto the side of the top. She held on for dear life as it began to tumble. "N-no...!" She cursed at herself and immediately released her fireball, completely burning one of the goblins on the top of the trees. Her artificial tower was tipping over, and she lost her grip. The citrus-haired girl fell to what she thought was her death. Her heartbeat rushed, and her arms waved wildly in the air to try to catch something. Sadly, the thing she caught onto was one of the nets that the goblins fired at her. The net wrapped around her body, causing EDA to curl up. She fell onto the ground and had the wind knocked out of her. She breathed heavily, trying to regain the oxygen she had lost. "Y-you think you can capture me?! I can just burn this net!" She muttered. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)The plan worked better than Drug had hoped, however one of the brave little goblins got caught by the elf-witch's fire as it rained down. His fellows grabbed the burned warrior and made sure he didn't fall out of he tree, Drug then witnessed a rare sight, even rarer than brave goblins, the elf was wrapped up tightly in a net. "Bind her until she can't even twitch her damned nose!" Drug roared out, causing a flurry of activity as orc and goblin alike threw more ropes on the elf until all Drug could see was her head. The leader himself marched up to her and gave the elf a toothy grin "If you could burn your way out you would have done so by now, and I would be ash." he grabbed the elf and then threw her over his shoulder as if she were a sack of wheat. Then Drug turned to the goblins who were carefully bringing down their wounded Conrad. Somehow the little green skin had survived, but barely. The goblin was out from the intense pain, most of his chest and arms were burned from the attack, it would take a great amount of healing power from the shaman and several weeks before he could so much as stand up again. Grimacing at the sight Drug couldn't help but wonder if perhaps his raiding party had captured a demon instead of an elf, or perhaps elves were just demons by another name. The angry goblins looked up to him, looking for instructions of some sort. "Hand your brother off to one of the orcs, that warrior will be able to carry him far faster and easier than your kin. I swear the elf-witch will pay. By my hand and Trig who will stand in as the hand of the poor warrior she burned." Drug didn't really like goblins, as a whole they were cowardly and hard to motivate without the promise of gold, but they were still green skins and part of his tribe. The small party quickly shaped up once Drug bellowed out a few simple orders to form up, then they began to move. The orcs traveled with shocking speed as they marched, their great strength and endurance let them plow right through most obstacles as well as continue on without decreasing their speed. Even the goblins could keep up, their light, agile bodies let them sprint ahead and scout out the land before returning to Drug with a report. The orcs did not want to stick around to get ambushed by a small army of human guards, the loss of stealth was a small price for the ground they were covering. As they traveled Drug glanced back and saw many of his people glancing at the elf, an intense mixture of hatred and fear, not one dared to let his eyes linger on her for more than a second before glancing away. Drug couldn't blame them, if he was put in the same situation he might very well have run for his life. But he stood and fought, his tribe had stood with him and in spite of this defeat he felt a great bloom of pride swell in his chest. These orcs faced a great power this day and while they flinched they never turned away, with this force Drug was certain he could win any battle...once they had more numbers of course. As they traveled Are brought up the rear, the ogre was the slowest of the small raiding force by far, but that also meant that the rear was protected against anything short of a rather large army or a dragon. Are himself didn't seem remotely bothered by the experience, it made Drug wonder if the ogre was old enough to have encountered elves before, or perhaps he was just too stupid to care. In a few hours Drug could see the battlements of his tribe, the few warriors that had been left behind greeted the raiding party with bellows. The tribe itself had created what they hoped would be a booming town, massive trees had been shaved down to create large poles which rock had been sealed between to create a great wall. The gate was similarly made out of these timbers and was even know swinging open to let the raiding party inside. The orcs and goblins soon rushed out to greet the raiding party, eager to see the spoils of the mission but to their great shock and confusion only Drug had any loot at all, a rather sour faced creature that resembled a human. Inside the walls were large structures, heavy wooden plants used to brace stretched leather in an odd hybrid of cabin and tent which the goblins designed to protect the tribe against the weather as well as be easy to take apart if the tribe ever needed to move to a new location or simply just to rearrange a few houses. In the center of the tribe was the largest structure, a sort of meeting hall where Drug, his brother, Ran and Trig would all meet as the leaders of the tribe to go over different problems and look for solutions. As the warriors dispersed to pass on the story of the demon-elf, Drug marched right into the meeting hall, in the center was an octagon shaped table where Keokuk, Ran and Trig were gathered. Trig seemed to be in the middle of pitching some new idea for siege engines while Ran and Keokuk looked like they were trying not to fall asleep as the goblin rambled on about how every cog fit in place. "Brother, honored shaman and friend Trig! I come baring something most odd." Swinging the elf off his shoulders Drug plonked her down on the table as his fellow green skins stared at this odd being. "Ah...an elf. I thought they were extinct." Ran said, the old hooded orc blinked his milky white eyes as he leaned over to try and get a better look at the captive. Ran's vision was starting to fail him, but his skill and magical ability only continued to grow. Keokuk raised an eyebrow at this "Elf you say? We could sell it to the humans for a pretty penny I think. More than enough to get our tribe off the ground." this suggestion was seconded by Trig who stood up in his chair, the hawk-nosed goblin was eager to study the elf up close. "Perhaps. But can you imagine what we can learn from her? No one has studied an elf...ever. I would love to see how-" Before he could continue Drug cut Trig off "She can raise the earth like a tidal wave and toss fire like a demon. She burned one of your kin." at that Trig suddenly went still as anger boiled in the goblin's eyes. "On second thought, perhaps it is too risky. Let the humans deal with her." The little green skin growled before reaching down to his side to palm a nasty looking dagger." There is another option." Ran stated as he leaned forwards, he seemed completely unafraid of the elf as he cast an oddly warm smile at her. "The human mages created enchanted cuffs which they used on my fellow shaman when they were captured. It cut their link to the element and killed the magic inside them until it was taken off." At this Trig began animated again "I have heard of this! Never managed to see one for myself, but I always wanted to." at that Ran placed a hand on the table and stood up, the old orc's bones creaked as he moved. "I believe that with my magic you and I could reproduce the effect. It will be invaluable in the future and now if we wish to keep the elf alive. If we can't stifle her magic your best bet would be to always keep her chained or just kill her now." The shaman then turned to Drug who was busy pouting himself a drink and wetting down his dry throat. "What do you plan to do with her?" At that the orc turned and glanced at his brother Keokuk "Because of this witch we were unable to take the human town and collect the woman we need to grow this tribe. I think she should take their place." this answer didn't seem to shock Ran, the orc only stroked his white beard "Hamm. Human/orc hybrids are well documented, the strength of our kind but shorter and more agile like humans. I have never heard of an elf/orc hybrid, though I can imagine it would at least create some rather magically charged offspring. We could do with more shaman." as Ran spoke Drug finished his drink and chuckled "Yes, those were my thoughts as well." then Drug turned to Keokuk who looked a bit surprised, but was clearly rather interested in the idea. Ran saw the look in the eyes of the twins and cleared his throat "Come young Trig, we will need that magic cuff sooner than later if we are to do anything with the elf." at that the goblin nodded "Fine, but I claim a batch of goblins from her after our fearless leaders have their fun. She owes my people..." the goblin muttered darkly under his brother, then Trig and shaman Ran walked out of the tent. This left the two brothers alone with the elf, Keokuk let a small smile cross his toothy maw before he glanced at his brother. "Today was a failure, but not as we first thought." He let out a low chuckle before leaning closer to lightly caress the elf's cheek "Perhaps we three can have a little chat while we prepare your new home." in his mind Keokuk was extremely eager to have a generation of magical attuned young orcs to train, perhaps a few would be some of his own sons and daughters. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)"Let go of me!" EDA protested, tossing and turning in the net bindings. She tried to flick her fingers to call forth a flame, but calling one up would surely burn her before it could even burn through the net itself. The citrus-haired girl cussed in her own native language. She looked up at Kurt with fury filled in her eyes. She wanted to burn down the entire forest if it meant getting rid of these shameful monsters. Furthermore, she would have to wait until the opportunity presented itself, and when the monsters let their guard down, she would make sure to bury their bones deep below the earth. The elf yelped as she was easily swung over Kurt's shoulder. What a disgraceful method of carrying a defeated opponent... On the travel back, EDA observed the sheer organization of the group of monsters. It seemed almost impossible that so many different races had joined forces, let alone form an organized army. Nonetheless, there was a human settlement not too far down. Surely they would hear the earth-raising techniques EDA had done and run after the orcs. Humans were very vengeful. If the two groups broke out into a fight, perhaps the wood elf would be able to escape. When she wasn't thinking about her escape, she would glare at any staring orcs to frighten them. She chuckled as they nervously retreated after seeing her gaze. I will find a way to escape... Eda reassured herself. After what seemed like forever, the army had reached their encampment. EDA looked up in awe of the sturdy fortress. Its large walls were impressive for an orc. Yet, what surprised her even more was when they entered the encampment. The bizarre houses had been constructed to easily disassemble. How had EDA never heard news about this rare tribe from traders and merchants crossing the path? The sole fact that this tribe could exist would be worrisome in the future. When EDA broke out, she would have to speak with the other elves about this. The girl was tossed onto a table like a prize. She rolled her eyes at the monsters conversing. Then, one of the orcs had mentioned death. Would the monsters really kill her, a rare specimen?! The elf bit her lip and closed her eyes for a few moments to prevent herself from crying. When she had settled down a little bit, EDA opened her eyes and let out a deep breath. I can't show fear... I can't show fear... The girl repeated in her head. As Keokuk caressed her cheek, she forced up a confident smile. "Me? Mate with you savages? I'm quite sure my superior genes won't be able to mix with yours." She pointed out, though EDA herself was unsure if she was able to create children if she mated with an orc. "My name is EDA. I have the ability to bring elves back into the world if you even think of doing something to me." The girl leaned her neck forward and tried to bite Keokuk's hand. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)Neither orc seemed all that surprised that the elf would try and bite them, Keokuk didn't even bother moving his hand away since orc skin was fairly tough in its own right. Kurt just sat back in his chair and looked more ready to take a nap than anything else, after seeing what the elf could do he wouldn't dare move any of the rope until he was sure her magical power was dampened. "Bah." He grunted when she began to mouth off to them "Humans said the same thing back in the great war, they used our kind for labor, sport and pleasure. The first half-orcs were born at that time, though we returned the favor to them and freed our brothers and sisters." with that Kurt leaned back in his chair. Kurt did take note of her threat to bring other elves over, the orc considered it for a long moment "Perhaps you will get the chance to summon your kin, but only after we know for sure that viable hybrids can be made." in his mind the orc leader couldn't believe that the other elves were every bit as strong as her. If she was the last then EDA must be extremely powerful by their standards, it wouldn't make sense to leave one of the weaker elves behind. Korkuk seemed rather fascinated with the elf, while not a fully trained shaman he could still sense great magical power within her. It was like standing on the shore of the ocean, the great weight of her power threatened to drown him. There was much she could teach them and their future generations, but first the elf would need to be trained herself, or they would never be able to use her to the best of their ability. Even as she bit his hand he was too busy trying to grasp at her strength, he was amazed his brother managed to capture this creature at all but Kurt had always been blessed by common sense and a bit of luck. "I think we should hand her to the ogre as a reward. Are was the only reason we were able to catch her at all." Kurt said to his brother as Keokuk pulled his hand away from the she-elf's snapping jaws. "Are would just eat her." He said with a low sigh, it would be an utter waste, but Keokuk was getting the impression that Kurt was trying to scare the elf a little. "I doubt that. Stories of half-ogres have been around for years. It is said they abduct orc women to sate their desires. I can't imagine he wouldn't be thrilled to try an elf." Keokuk glanced over at his brother, for a long moment the two shared a look before the shaman sighed. "True. Keeping the ogre's loyalty is important. But I think we should save that idea for if she can't produce us children." At that Kurt nodded and then reached for another mug of something that smelled rather like a hearty ale. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)Indeed it was true that EDA was one of the strongest elves. However, the young elf lacked experience and wisdom that older elves possessed. In essence, she was like an orc: strong and thoughtless. It was for that very reason that the elves had sent EDA to watch over the world. Such wonderful abilities needed to be tested. Rather than keep EDA locked up in a realm of peace, they wanted her to mature and grow. While tasked with watching the peace of the world seemed like a gargantuan task, it was nothing short of what EDA could accomplish with her natural magical abilities. Eda bit deeper into Keokuk's skin, yet he did not pull it away or roar in pain. She continued to bite, hoping that the pain would eventually reach him. She glared at the orc as soon as he pulled his hand away. The elf's body was getting fairly uncomfortable now. The nets were suffocating most of her body. It became gradually harder for blood to flow through her body. EDA did not complain about it though, as she was sure that the orcs knew that this type of restraint was necessary. All EDA needed was a flick of a finger, and she could burn through the nets. As the orcs were talking, the wood elf's voice boomed through the room. "Howdah you talk about me like that!" She roared after Keokuk mentioned handing her over to Are to 'try' her out. The orcs casually sipping their ale seemed to anger the wood elf even more. It was as if they were drinking in their victories, all while rubbing it in EDA's face. "You savage are all talk. Free me now, and then I'll teach you some magic," the elf threatened. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)To their credit to twins did not jump, however both of them instinctively reached for their weapons and their eyes slid to EDA when that bellowing voice split the air like thunder. It took a few long moments of silence before they were able to react. Looking down at her Drug let out a low snarl "Perhaps leaving her mouth uncovered was too great a risk." at that Keokuk nodded, but neither moved to try and gag the elf. Drug broke the tension with a gruff grunt "Elf, I realize that humans paint us as uncivilized simpletons, but we are far from so stupid that we might trust your words." shaking his head Drug refilled his mug once more, but this time he reached out and poured a small amount into EDA's threatening lips. "There, try some mush-rot and relax. It's a thick ale brewed by goblins who ferment borderline toxic mushrooms found in their home caves. They get a bit homesick for the caves and the ale helps them calm down. Stuff is hell on the head though." With any luck the elf wouldn't be so prone to shouting and breaking eardrums with a bit of mush-rot down her throat, at the very least said throat will be burning would bottle the elf's anger for a bit. Of course, they would never be able to shut her up forever, Drug didn't think he ever would, he rather liked hearing her scream impotent rage, it would be all the more amusing once her magic was gone." Lads! We have returned!" Bursting back into the room was Ran, holding what looked like a leather collar that had a bone carved charm hanging off it, which no doubt held the magic. "It can only be taken off by either you two, me and Trig. No one else has power over this thing nor can it be destroyed through non-magical means." There was a light in the orc twin's eyes as Ran walked across the room and placed it down on the table. "Did you test it?" Keokuk asked, a slightly worried look on his face "Of course. It could easily contain twenty times my own power." Ran was far from a lightweight when it came from magical power, still if anyone would be that strong it would be the elf. Drug grabbed the collar and quickly snapped it over the elf's neck, the only bare spot he could see between the mass of rope. Collectively the three green skins took in a deep breath as King used his dagger to cut away the ropes and netting until the elf was clad only in the clothes she was captured it. "Alright EDA, try to murder us." Drug stated as he crossed his arms and smiled at her, taking the time to grit his teeth and brace himself for the possible outcome of being burned to death. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)EDA wanted to bark back at the orcs even more. Her blood boiled with an uncontrollable rage, though she bit her tongue and decided to keep her comments to herself. She couldn't annoy the orcs too much, and unnecessarily put herself in a bad situation. Instead, she silently rolled her eyes at Drug's comment. Humans had nothing to do with an elf's view of orcs. Elves saw all races as inferior. Regardless if the humans praised orcs or criticized them, the elves' opinions of orcs would never change. The wood elf pressed her lips together as soon as Drug tried to have her drink the ale. She reluctantly took the liquid into her lips. But when the mug was moved away from her lips, EDA spat out the ale. She grazed her teeth against her tongue to try to wipe away the taste of it. The citrus-haired girl shifted her focus on the returning shaman. In his hand was a strange collar with a bone on it. There was no doubt that the orcs wanted to snap that collar around her neck. Her face grew pale. If the elf were to wear such a bone-collar, then she would undoubtedly look to be an elf tainted by orcs. The elf was disgusted at even wearing a collar held by orcs, let alone try to mate with them. As Drug approached her with the collar, she shook violently. "No...! No!" She cried out in fear, though her struggle was useless. Snapped around her delicate neck was the collar that would forever seal her freedom. Once EDA was free, she breathed in all the air she could. Fresh air could finally reach her lungs without the bindings. There she sat at the edge of the table she previously laid on. Her legs casually swayed back and forth, and a smile appeared across her lips. She saw the subtle doubt within Drug's face. "You... have all made a dire mistake." She announced and held her hand up similarly as if she was going to summon a fireball. Immediately after she placed her hands behind her and kicked her legs higher, flipping over to the other side of the table. EDA pushed the ancient shaman out of the way and ran out of the tent. I... I can feel my magical presence gone... The elf gritted her teeth as she ran out. The elf would surely attract the attention of the tribe. Especially since she was their only catch on the trip, EDA didn't expect anything less than gaining the tribe's full attention on her escape. She grabbed a nearby crate, one she assumed the tribe gained from raids, and tossed it over. She tried her best to create a diversion and get to the gates. As EDA ran, she nudged on the bone collar with her hand. The bone hung loosely around the collar. Even now, she could see Keokuk and Kurt laughing at her futile attempt to remove the collar. Damn it... the elf cursed in her mind. Damn it all! RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)She was fast, faster than any orc Drug had seen and far faster than any human, he couldn't help but be a little impressed as he watched those long legs carry the elf through the tribe. It was a bit like watching a chicken run around after it's head being cut off, EDA seemed so desperate to cause as much chaos as possible but all she did was attract confused, fearful and lusty stares from the members of the tribe. Drug stifled a chuckle before his deep voice cut through the air "Close the gates!" and almost as soon as the order had been given the huge wooden doors swung closed, trapping the elf inside with the tribe. Unless she could run right up walls Drug and his brother could catch her at their convenience. Glancing at his brother Drug smiled and motioned at the running elf "Shall we?" he asked before Keokuk returned his smile "Why not?" with that the brothers broke into a run, nowhere near as fast as the elf, but they had more than enough endurance to keep up with her. They also had intimate knowledge of the surroundings, Drug kept a constant presence behind her as Keokuk would duck and dash around buildings, taking shortcuts to get ahead of the elf. With long arms he would grab at her, his fingertips catching on EDA's clothes and skin, but he never quite managed to get a good grip. It became quite a sight, many of the warriors gathered to watch, barking out encouragement to their leaders and laughing heartily as the elf tried to escape from them. Mugs were passed around, soon goblin, troll, orc and even ogre were all spellbound as work stopped dead so that they could enjoy this show. Trig even began to take bets, odds on which orc would catch EDA or even if she would manage to beat their endurance. The goblin shouted out in his shrill voice "Come on ya books! Taking all odds! Toss a coin or dagger I don't care! Place your bets and watch the elf so fair! Round and round she goes, who stops her nobody knows!" which often followed the clinking of mugs and rolling laughter. It got so bad that the troll Tumble couldn't even breath, the giant beast fell back on the ground as the dimwitted monster tried to both laugh and suck in air at the same time, spilling a rather larger mug on himself as he went down to the ground. As for the racers, Drug powered on, even after the great march he still had energy to spare and his eyes were firmly locked on the sweet rear of EDA. No barrel or crate she tossed in his way slowed him for long as the orc just crashed right on through. Keokuk was not as conditioned as his brother, but was still an orc, he kept up with a small sign of tiring, always darting out of the shadows to trip up EDA, finally after the seventh try he managed to wrap a huge hand around her wrist, but as slippery as the elf proved to be it was unsure just how long he would manage to hold her, even with Drug closing in. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)EDA knew that she would gather the lustful glares of the lower beings. Stop looking at me... you brutes! She bit her lip and ran faster, though she watched in horror as the gates before her began to close. She looked behind and saw the twin orcs coming even closer to her with each passing second, and the roar of an entertained crowd. "I will not be your entertainment!" She had run by a goblin, and stomped it square in the face. Then she sprinted off again. A weapon! She needed to find a weapon to protect herself! There had to be one around with all the monsters around. Her eyes scanned the area, though the only weapons she found were closely placed next to an orc. Then, she found a spear rested against one of the crates. Finally! The elf made a run for it, hoping to grab the weapon. Almost there... she told herself once she could practically feel the cold steel weapon in her hands. Yet before she could snatch it, a large figure had appeared and grabbed her by the wrist. She tugged forward, but it was no use. When EDA turned back, she realized what had stopped her was not a mere goblin... but Keokuk. She turned around and pounded the orc's chest with her free hand, though she was sure that Keokuk would not even flinch at her attack. "Let... me... go!" She demanded, and tried to swing her body from side to side to slip out. It was no use. The orc's grip was too tight on her. "I... will kill you!" She yelled at Keokuk. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)Keokuk held the elf, reaching down to get a better grip on her before he turned to watch his brother trot up. Drug didn't even seem winded, he did however help the goblin EDA attacked up, the little dazed creature shook his head and thanked Drug. "Give her a good one for me." The little green skin growled as he stumbled back to his kin who were giving the little guy a check-up to make sure that the elf didn't break any of his bones. Once that was done Drug turned to his brother and grabbed the other arm of the elf, together they pulled her off the ground with ease and walked her out in front of the mass of green skins that had gathered there. "My brothers!" Drug roared out as Trig was busy collecting and dealing out the results of the bet "This is but the first step to our new future, but I am sorry to say there will not be enough to go around, but I think a little show is in order." with a little grandstanding Drug then turned to the elf with a wide grin on his mug. Reaching over to her with his free hand he began to undress her, which was rather easy since the elf seemed to almost pop out of her clothing with every movement she made. Keokuk aided him. They were careful not to rip these clothes, Keokuk wanted to study them lady as they were made with a process he did not quite understand. EDA would be provided with more plain clothes and perhaps a few elegant ones if she fell in line, those they wouldn't treat so carefully. Once her clothes slid down from the elf's pale body, she was naked as they day she was born and standing in front of a giant mass of very lonely male monsters. Even Are was smart enough to notice the pleasing curves on her and gave a low lustful rumble. Lowering her down to the ground Drug took his hands away from the elf while Keokuk's grip increased. "Now little one, we can do this the easy way, the hard way or our way. So play along and undress my brother." These words came whispered into her pointed ear by Keokuk, just as much a threat as it was an offer. Orcs respected strength and no fool would ever call EDA weak, but she was not a fellow orc nor did she treat them with the respect due, she would have to be taught the proper way to act. Drug and his brother expected this to be a long and tiresome process, but they intended to make it as enjoyable as possible...for them at least. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)The citrus-haired girl hung in Keokuk's grip, unable to move or free herself. She struggled once both of them grabbed a hold of her and dragged her over to the center of the rest of the tribe. What were they up to? Her emerald hues scanned the area to try to find out what they were going to do to her. It was probably going to be humiliating, if anything. She turned over to the green orc that began to undress her. "Lay your hands off of me, brute!" She hissed, yet she wasn't able to stop him. He peeled away her violet mage clothing, starting with her breasts. Her large breasts popped out of her dress. The round, perfect spheres were complimented by her nicely shaped nipples. Even then, as more layers of her clothing was peeled off, the green-skins could make out the curves coming around her body. Her perfect child-bearing hips seemed to catch the eyes of some goblins. As they looked down, they could make out her nice, luscious thighs, curving around and a slight tease of her bubblegum pussy. EDA's violet mage clothes and leaf-undergarments had been properly removed. The wood elf's fair skin was visible for all monsters to see and drool over. The citrus-haired girl crossed her legs in an attempt to hide her womanhood from their lustful eyes. Yet as she did that, the elf unconsciously showed off her thighs even more, and even her rather large, fit ass. "Stop it...! Look away, you fools!" EDA turned her head away, hoping that if she didn't see the green-skins, they wouldn't see her either. She widened her eyes when Drug issued his command. "Are you being serious with me?" Her voice was filled with disbelief. The elf spat at Kurt's clothing. "You humiliate me, a superior elf, and you think I'll submit to you?" She tried to tug away from the orc's grip. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)Through it all the elf remained defiant and deluded to the point she believed she still had some control over the situation. Drug was impressed, against such threats even great warrior women tended to show some hint of worry, but Edam asked her feelings well. He was very tempted to make her his and Keokuk's personal breeder and let not another soul touch her, he wanted that monstrous determination for his own bloodline. Drug also couldn't resist taunting the elf, with his free hand he reached down and palmed EDA's rather large breasts, taking a few moments to squeeze them, feeling her flesh press out between his fingers. "Tell me miss EDA, soon to be mother of my children, elves are said to have long lifespans. Have you ever been with a male before? I find it hard to believe someone with so much time hasn't had a little fun." He smiled and took in a deep breath, noticing the odd fruity scent that seemed to cling to the elf "I promise you, a good orc lover will wash away those memories. No puny elf or human can match the might of a green skin, be it on the battlefield or in bed." this got a hearty round of cheers from the onlookers. Keokuk for the most part remained silent, but he couldn't help but feel up the elf as well, his own free hand wandered down across her back and pinched her plump rear. It didn't take much the set the orcs off, years apart from any female contact had taken its toll on each one of them. It was a rare set of pants in the crowd that wasn't tented in some way, even Drug and Keokuk were sporting a growing bulge in their leather pants. Drug and Keokuk in truth were virgins, they never had the chance to properly woo women in their own tribe and until now never managed to get their hands on a female. No one would be able to tell though, most of this motley tribe have been away from females so long they wouldn't know what an experienced lover looked like and any naïveté would be just thought of as pent-up desperation. The twins took their time groping and pinching at the elf, always careful to keep a tight grip on her as they teased the poor woman. They continued until the bulges in their pants could not be ignored, with a low pained grunt Drug reached down and pulled his leather pants down, unleashing a thick, pulsating beast that at least nine inches long. Keokuk soon followed and revealed an equally massive member. As huge as these proportions seemed, they were rather average by orc standards, but to an elf or human they might seem a tad impressive. Taking in a deep breath Drug let out a chuckle "Tell me EDA, can any elf-man match the power of an orc? I dare you to compare and then tell me an elf-man is superior." it was a set-up, if she denied it then Drug would take the opportunity to punish her and if she agreed she would be rewarded...which wouldn't be any different from said punishment. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)A smile appeared across the elf's lips once she realized that she was somewhat gaining control of the situation. The orcs claimed that they were not mentally behind, yet it would be the wood elf's great smarts that would ultimately free her. No matter how shameful she appeared in front of the crowd, she needed to use the tribe's unquenchable lust against them. She then turned to Drug, who squeezed her soft breasts. His rough hands rubbed against her nice breasts, and her nipples immediately got hard from the monster's touch. As he rubbed more of her breasts, a crimson blush appeared on the elf's cheeks. She bit her tongue to prevent the tribe from hearing any sort of moan from her. Her breasts were very sensitive, and to have Drug go for them first... Damn them. EDA looked up at Drug. Her emerald eyes pierced his soul as he spoke. "First, don't think that you even have a chance with me!" She lashed back as if she had a choice whether she was going to pick Drug. "And I'll have you know, I'm a relatively young elf. In human years, I'm twenty-three. So I have plenty of years left in me." She then chuckled. "Imagine that. You captured a young, inexperienced elf. Would you be able to handle an army of elves suited with centuries of knowledge?" Her comments were quieted once Keokuk began to feel the elf up. A shiver was sent down her spine as the hands rubbed up against her. As Keokuk squeezed the elf's ass, his large hand would be able to make out how full and pump her ass was. EDA winced as the orcs touched her. She glanced over to the crowd and noticed how the cheers were replaced with low groans. "Huh~" EDA hummed when she had seen that. She would turn the tribe against the twins. The citrus-haired girl began speaking to the crowd. "You won't ever get to feel me... these orcs seem to want to have me all for themselves. A little unfair... don't you think?" RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)It would take a complete simpleton to not see what EDA was trying to do, Drug gave a low snort before he moved his hand back to her breast, wrapping his fingers around the pert nipple before twirling his fingers around the sensitive little bud. "Oh, they want you. Any male with a working body would want you. But you see, my brother and I pulled their asses out of the mud, out of disgrace and made them into something they could be proud of. We honor them and they honor us with loyalty. Plus if not for you each of them would have a woman of their own." Drug narrowed his eyes at EDA, making sure his words were loud enough for all to hear. There was little chance the orcs would try to rebel, but Drug was already taking preventative measures just in case someone let honor and reason slip away. Moving his other hand away from EDA's wrist, giving her some small amount of freedom, Keokuk's nimble fingers slid down her stomach, brushing lightly against the elf's womanhood, his fingertips tracing along her nether lips just to tease the elf further. "Orcs may be known for swift brutality, but we can take our time." Keokuk said in a hushed tone, letting EDA know that they were going to enjoy themselves, not give in to feral lust. His other hand continued to rub her firm ass, feeling how round and smooth the flawless skin was." As for experience...well, that's something I'm sure you will pick up. In a few weeks you will be an expert I expect." Drug taunted before pulling the elf closer, pressing his shaft against her thigh as he spoke, since she wouldn't look at it, he was going to make her feel it. "You also did not answer my question, rude little thing. Even if you are ignorant of elf men, you have certainly at least seen or heard of one. Whatever your limited view is I will enlighten you and in a few months each and every orc here may very well get his chance to do the same." By this time Drug planned to have at least a few more raids under his belt, some more captives to take the strain off EDA. In a few years maybe he would order her to open the portal, nothing would cement his rule more than taking on a fully armored elf battle group and of course more even females would always be welcome. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)EDA finally gave in and let a moan escape her lips when Drug played with her breasts. "Mm hmm..." Surely such a moan would be music to the crowd of greens-skins. If they had been truly deprived, hearing EDA's voice would surely send some of them into intense lust. She looked down in disgrace, upset that her plan to cause an uprising had failed. As soon as her hand was freed, EDA shook her wrist. She was sore at this point and enjoyed any sort of freedom they had given her. She tensed up as the orc ran his finger down her stomach and lightly ran over her pure womanhood. "Hmm? You think I'm some delicate flower?!" She barked when Keokuk mentioned that the orcs were able to 'take their time'. "This is why you orcs would never be able to please an elf! You're far too slow!" The citrus-haired girl's remarks were soon replaced with a moan as her ass was being rubbed. Her smooth, flawless skin would encourage the orcs to touch her more across her entire body." Shut up!" She didn't want to hear Drug twist her words and turn it into something dirty like that. Then, as Drug pushed his shaft against her thighs, EDA's nice thighs provided the shaft a warm and soft heaven. "Stop it, you brute!" The wood elf shook, though unbeknownst to her, she was rubbing her nice thighs against Drug's member. The elf's soft thighs shifted in an alternating movement, as if beckoning Drug to release his load all over her thighs. The feeling of the orc's member against her thighs caused the citrus-haired girl to blush a deep crimson. She didn't want to reply to the orc, but knew that the green-skinned monster would only humiliate her more. She opened her minty lips and finally spoke. "T-they aren't superior to you... your large, muscular frame and your large pulsing cock is definitely larger..." The wood elf said softly. "T-there, I said it... Now stop this!" RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)At this point several of the tribe had spread out, giving each other enough room so they could rub those growing bulges without bumping into another green skin and causing a fight. Drug and Keokuk more or less ignored this, feeling completely assured by their power over the rest of the tribe, they would get their taste soon enough. Drug found endless amusement in EDA, he never once thought she was a delicate flower, neither would any sane creature who knew her for more than a second, but watching her squirm and struggle was just too tasty. Then it happened, she didn't break, but she gave the orc an inch, she had admitted that they were better than elf men, and it sent swelling pride through the twins. Drug didn't even bother to hold on to her with his other hand anymore, instead it wrapped around the elf's other breast as he grabbed it and began to assault it with the same attention. "There, was that so hard?" Laughing the chain gave a small nod to Keokuk who pulled his hands away from EDA for a moment, taking a step back. Drug then bent his knees a bit, lowering himself before pressing forwards, letting that massive shaft slip between EDA's thighs, but he didn't enter her. Pressing forwards until she was practically straddling that massive shaft, Drug then gave a low grunt and stood up. Shouldering much of her wait on that muscle alone he picked her off the ground, pressed hard to his chest as he was forced to let go of her breasts so that they could be crushed against his own muscled frame. Behind her Keokuk stepped back closer to her, his hands once more sliding along EDA's firm rear. Pulling her hips back and forth as she slid along Drug's hips and powerful manhood. Now that they had heard the elf moan they knew they had her. "There little elf, in your rightful place." Drug taunted as his hands moved to her thighs, helping keep EDA up so that not all her weight was put on his hips. Sticking out through her hips, Drug's shaft rubbed along her firm rear, just below where Keokuk's hands gropes and traveled, testing the elf's skin. Then quite suddenly Keokuk pulled a hand back and gave EDA's rear a firm slap, rather light by orc standards, but it sent her ass shaking and shivering over his brother's member, further engorging Drug's lust. They were playing with her, like a cat might a trapped mouse and when the time came the poor elf's violation would be all the sweeter. RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)It was so embarrassing having an audience watch the three at that moment. Had they no shame? She refused to respond to Drug, and bit her bottom lip when the orc continued to touch her sensitive breasts. Though the elf may have looked even more sexy biting her lower lip. She thought that the show was over, until she felt herself being hoisted up by Drug's member. The citrus-haired girl was scared for a moment and by reaction, hugged Drug. Her nice, hard nipples pressed against her structure. At the same time, the orc would be able to feel her warm and inviting breasts mash against his frame. "I-It's so strong..." The citrus-haired elf commented, looking down at it amazed. Her womanly juices leaked onto Drug's hard cock, coating it in her womanly juices. "T-this isn't my place...!" She put up a weak resistance. As Drug rubbed his cock against her ass, he would be able to feel how large and firm her ass cheeks were. She let out another moan as Keokuk slapped her ass. As the orc continued to rub her body against his cock, EDA curled her nice thighs around Drug. Now she was embracing the orc with all four of her limbs. The citrus-haired girl looked up at the orc. Her eyes were filled with lust and her soft, minty lips let another moan escape. "I-It feels good ♥" RE: For the Tribe! (Koran and Frozen flame)He could feel her desire, it was burning white-hot against his own, Drug could practically smell the elf's arousal, and it made his victory all the sweeter. "But this is your place, here with us. This is your throne." He said as he gave his hips a little buck, letting her slide along them before slapping against his waist. He had her, and he wanted to make sure that she remembered this moment when she gave into her lust. Kurt pulled her legs towards him until they were wrapped around his body, he licked his lips and looked down at EDA, hearing her enjoy the treatment. He rubbed himself between her ass cheeks, lightly bucking to bounce her body on his throbbing shaft. Now Keokuk had to back off once more, soon he would have his turn and join his brother but right now there was not enough elf and far too much orc. Instead, he's biding his time by stripping off his armor and clothes as well as helping his brother do the same as he managed them around the elf glued to his hips. Now completely naked she pressed against his bare, muscled chest and the orc looked down at EDA. "You are a beautiful and strong-willed creature EDA Elfin, I look forwards to the future." Keokuk gave her a parting smack on her other cheek, slightly reddening her skin before finally positioning himself behind her and waiting for his brother to finish playing with her ass. Kurgs hands molded around EDA's rear, squeezing her sweet flesh and wrapping it around his member as he rolled his hips forwards, rubbing against her skin. "Tell me elf. Tell me what you desire, what only an orc can give you." Kurt demanded as he continued to rub his thick shaft along her wet slit "Tell me and I will give you all you will ever want, all you will ever need." he could take her right then and there, but Kurd's pride demanded he hear the elf ask for it.

For the Tribe! (Closed)|rating:2.0

Cyber City - VR Fantasia

(Thread (to Tiny Tina's VR realm!(event: Christmas Fantasy! Come visit Tiny T at her Christmas dream world. Have fun under the snow and drink hot Chico to your heart's content! Don't forget to check the store for the amazing skins and accessories for our favorite festive season! Subscribers to Tina's vlog get a discount coupon! The event starts on December 24th. 10pm! Code: [Select][float left][IMG height=180]Image here[/IMG][/float left][b]Name:[/b] [URL=Character Sheet link (optional)]Character Name or VR nickname[/URL][b]Location:[/b] (Lobby, park, etc.)[b]Date/Time:[/b] [b]Gear:[/b] (optional)[b]Tagging:[/b] Person you're playing with[hr]You can protect your character's identity by using skins and nicknames. ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Lobby, Cosmetics Store. Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Open Christmas time was still intriguing for the Mongrel. They still couldn't catch the concept of forgetting all concerns in order to eat and drink more than the body needed to survive. It wasn't that they didn't enjoy the Human celebration. The outer had been growing more fond of humanity's lifestyle and customs since he came from his far away planet. They had their favorite rituals, and Christmas with its songs and colors was one of them. Although with their lazy nature, they tended to become part of the Earth's life through the VR Realms and other methods of massive communication. Tonight, the giant being decided to be playful and buy a skin that would probably make it difficult for their acquaintances to recognize. Mingling with other players at the lobby Ar's'UK waited for their comrades to log into the realm. They were excited to see what Tiny Tina had planned for this year's event. The human girl continued to surprise them event after event, and with her incredible physical skills. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7pm. Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Gear:(Dear, NeroTorrie was still working when the invite for Tiny Tina's Christmas Fantasy event went live, he had known about this for Days and was already well ahead of being prepared for it. His eyes glowed bright blue almost as though his pupils where LED's for a few seconds as the HUD loaded up before finally disguising his eyes as normal so he could blend back into work. He stood still for a second pausing what he was doing as he accepted the invite before continuing his action. "And if there's anything else boys give me a shout, and I'll fetch you some more." Torrid smiled laying it on thick for the drunken and horny men fishing for dances. He slowly backed away from his customers and walked back to the bar as the VR realm loaded in a semi transparent overlay on top of the club. If not for his constant use of VR in such a way it would drive a person mad, but Torrid frequently used this mode at work. He logged into the realm and went to the shop eager to get into the festive spirit... however festive he could he in his avatars' mode as a fire goddess didn't really scream Christmas not until you threw a winter wonderland outfit on top of it. Torrid squeaked aloud as he saw the outfit and instantly chose it equipping it instantly and allowing it to cover Cindi's flaming skin. He always loved playing in VR at work as he would look down and see his arms on fire and become Cindi as he gave patrons drinks from the fire goddess. He left the shop controlling his avatars via his neural chip and made his way out of the store and into the lobby in which he spotted a deer named Dear, an avatars he just had to get on board and ride. Torrid made his way back to the bar while Cindi walked closer to the deer and upon getting there began to speak. "Hey there cutie pie. I bet you would just love a good stroke and a ride." Cindi giggled as her hand began to pet the deer as he petted away he spotted a familiar green glow from the corner of his eye. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7PMGear:As shown (malfunction)Tagging:Cindi, DeereXReturning home from work S.A.D.I. closed her door to her apartment in the Upper City as she locked the door behind her. Today ran longer than normal as the other workers wanted to leave as soon as they could go celebrate with family and friends. For her, it wasn't something she would ever truly understand, but she could pretend that she did. Long gone were the days of going out cutting down trees and decorating. Carolers singing on the streets or the church choir going door to door to sing and bring good tidings. Indeed, the times have changed. She begins to remove her clothes so she could take a shower to rid herself of the "offending" odors of too much perfume and cologne from those that hugged her. A couple of the Hunters seemed to be celebrating early despite being on duty, but according to her analyzer, they were below the limit so nothing pressing. It was their life, and she wasn't there to judge, but just adapt to the situation as it was still jotted down inside her memory." Play Frank Sinatra, White Christmas (" ordered S.A.D.I. from her music player as the classic song began to play. Truly was a shame that most of the inhabitants of this day and age can't appreciate the music from just over a hundred-and-fifty years ago. The alarm on her watch went off to alert her that it was 7PM and with her still in the shower as the music played, S.A.D.I. wasn't about to miss her scheduled meet-up with her online acquaintances. Her other core activated as she was transported into VR Fantasia while she took care of herself and debated about making hot chocolate and a bowl of popcorn. Digitalizing into code she logged in as Nero. A name that was given to her long ago and deciding to be "festive" attempted a skin that she usually doesn't wear as she selected the green fairy-issue (skin. Half of her face was showing, and she easily changed herself to have such features. Choosing the basic honey-colored hair and amber eyed female with her real-life hair cut as she was pinged that both Cindi and Dear were already online, meaning she was late. Upon reaching the lobby she pinged for the names of the users she was looking for since it appeared that 99% of the users dressed up. Sure black wasn't a traditional Christmas color, but she was glowing green and therefore it counted right? Then she saw them as the code sped past her and showed her where they were and everything was normal in the VR sense." Why aren't you two adorable," Nero chuckles behind the half mask and looks Cindi up and down. "If you are wearing that... Perhaps I should try a Christmas event skin." Her eyes move over to Dear as she tilted her head to the side in confusion. "Did you intentionally choose to be the beefier version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Deer?" The play on words made her smile as she crossed her arms and seeing the few looks she received made the poor synth sigh. Opening a screen in the VR, she began to flip through different skins, outfits, accessories, and whatever seasonal stuff they had. Seeing an old style Mrs. Clause style attire had Nero want to buy it. It was conservative and old school which would be fun for this area. However, her systems caught on quick that there was a lag in the stream as soon as she hit "purchase". The skin she wore wasn't what she purchased as they looked down mortified. Red heeled boots just below her knee with long white stockings that made to her mid-thigh was too much, but more so seeing that her chest was more exposed than normal. Her breasts weren't hanging out, but you could see the top swells and the sorry excuse for a shawl, cape, whatever it was didn't cover them." Cindi... Could I propose a trade?" Asks Nero as she felt her face and found it bare as well when suddenly a wreath and a bell popped up in front of her. ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Lobby, Cosmetics Store. Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero; OpenSea saw bright flames reaching closer to the store and knew Cindi had arrived, their skin's ears perking up when they saw the appearance change. They waited, curious to see if Cindi would walk over them, and she did. Dear laughed, a hoof stomping on the ground. "Only from you..." They chuckled. "And Nero." The large deer nodded toward the black and neon green being walking their way. With Nero's question, the hacker had to do a little, very quick search of data to know who this Rudolph was, which caused them to laugh out loud when they found out. "No... But I believe I look much better. Hop on, Cindi." Dear offered the other avatar, prancing around Nero while she picked up her Christmas outfit." Look at that headband, we match now!" Dear laughed, knowing that this wasn't Nero's style at all. "You look adorable, Nero." They teased her. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7pm. Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Gear:(NeroCindi jumped startled by Nero's arrival causing Torrid to yelp out loud adding to his already frightful night as he waited behind the bar keeping him from the action in the Landmark and allowing him to distract himself from the events with the VR event. Dear had nodded to Nero's approach, but the avatar was much closer than he had expected. "Yeah get into the spirit Nero come one let's get a little red and fluffy on you" Cindi giggled encouraging the other girl to go shopping. "Yeah he does look like that doesn't he" He attached to then end of Nero's comment about Dear's appearance. Cindi noticed Nero freeze for a moment and continued to pet Dear feeling the soft fur on the palm of his hands calming him even more. He loved The neural implant as he could feel everything from the VR world as if it where his own hands touching the objects. Before her avatar suddenly switched out to something beautiful. "Yes, yes you do look so much better... I wouldn't say no" Cindi teased Dear playfully adding a little wink to the gambit before clapping and screaming "Really Cayley" As he climbed up onto of the rather strong Deer before him. "Gosh your nice and warm" He added as he was taken for a little ride as Dear moved around. DeereX brought his attention back over to Nero as he joked about the headband. "Yeah you do that is beautiful and so damn hot... how come that wasn't there when I looked I would have totally gotten that one." Cindi continued praising Nero's choice. She listened to Nero ask for a trade and gladly accepted. "Emma of course I will" His voice raspy and crackling like that of a fire. "I would love to trade sweetie" With that he opened his in game menu and proposed a trade and offered up his costume leaving him naked for the moment and having his flaming body naked on show for the world to see. "Opus forgot to add other clothes first" He giggled. The outfits swapped, and he was at home loving the new outfit, the heels where a little to small for him, but he could edit them later but for now he was happy to be in this new outfit that made him look that much more sexy and on show. He could feel the wight of the horns on his head and wiggled them from side to side. "Look Dear I'm your mare now... ERM I think that's what they are called" He spoke not really knowing what he was talking about giggling away and as he did, he logged into the costume menu and edited the size of the wreath scaling it down until it was the perfect size to fit around his arm like some fancy accessory. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7PMGear:Trade successful New outfit! (DeereXSeeing that Cindi was more than happy to trade made Nero smile as she opened up her menu as well. Her body turn black and featureless as her attire left her form and the new one was placed. Slowly Nero began to reconfigure herself, adding color to her skin, hairstyle, eyes, lips, etc." Thank you, Dear, but I am more of a traditionalist and something like that is not my taste. Also, Cindi, I don't even know how that lag even happened. It was... Interesting to say the least and again, thank you for trading with me. Even though the skirt is short, it is something I can handle. Virtual or not, I can't stand showing so much skin. Call it a personal thing." Nero's voice went from this strange, almost digital quality before turning into a soft, raspy voice as Nero's skin turned tan featuring sparkling green hair and eyes that seemed to match. "Now that is better, though it feels weird to make a face when I am usually faceless." Listening to Cindi saying "mare" made Nero raise a brow as she walked over to them. Petting Dear on the nose while looking over to Cindi. "Technically, you are called a cow. Male reindeer are bulls, females are cows, and babies are calves. Mare is a female horse or other equine animals and reindeer are not. I know that the term cow has a negative aspect in society but in terms of biology it is the correct term," raising her hand she creates a candy cane staff and waited to see if Cindi was going to hope on or not. "What is our first destination? There are many vendors and shops available here, and I have logged around 89 different people selling their forms of hot chocolate. It also seems some name brands are here to sell gear for a special game of the year editions for specific VR worlds, discounted merchandise and access, the Fantasia is endless. Also, someone brought a portal to TEC here as well and separated it into a few different genres with someone posting a live feed of the Siren singing at 2200." ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Lobby, Cosmetics Store. Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.20pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero; Open When Nero's appearance became blank, and she started to modify her image, the deer avatar remained still, watching with curiosity. It was interesting how someone could just tap into the code of the game to change stuff that wasn't supposed to be changed. This made the hacker very curious to try and find out more about Nero and her methods, but they would leave it as it was for the time being as they really want to enjoy the night's event. The trade between Nero and Cindi started, and Dear waited, wanting to see how each of them would look with the outfit change, which definitely suited them both. The large deer nodded at Nero's words; the look change had been a good thing while the lag had been an odd occurrence. Cindi speaking adobe then caused the avatar to look up and laugh at the sight of the little blonde avatar with the antlers and ears headband. "You are!" They laughed although with Nero's explanation, Dear grew quiet, listening to the small... Biology lesson? The deer's head turned to the side for a moment; maybe they could visit the museum someday and learn about all those amazing creatures that used to share the Earth with human beings. The fact that Nero had just called Cindi, a cow, didn't generate any reply on the outer hacker though. At the question of where to go next, Dear sort of bowed in front of Nero. "Hop on, there's room for both. The event won't start until 10 pm, but the realm is open for everyone so we could go and see the thematic attractions." They suggested. "I do want to try that hot chocolate, though." They chuckled. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7pm. Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Gear:(NeroCindi giggled as Dear agreed to him being his little mare before Nero began speaking informing them of the Reindeer's actual biology." Oooooo... I like the sound of bull so much more, you can be my bull. Isn't that a kinky mating thing from the olden days anyway. Where a woman would call a man her bull?" He avoided the quick snap of was that he was about to throw from the lecture on biology. "A cow eighth that's not very sexy now is it" He scoffed and giggled while continuing to sit on top of Dear waiting for Nero to climb aboard so they could go wander."Yeah, lets go for hot chocolate... it's my favorite and I could use one right about now" Cindi spoke, but it was Torrid who needed the drink right about now as he referenced what was happening in his real life. "Let's go test the hot chocolates I want cream and marshmallows ooo and even a flake." He squeaked getting excited at the thought of it. "Then we can go check out everything else" He smiled at Nero and Dear wanting to do it all with them. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Cosmetics Store Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7PMGear:New outfit! (DeereXSmiling she hops onto Dear before giving a chuckle while patting Cindi's shoulder. "It's alright and in a sense yes. You could be referring to him being a muscular, hypermasculine man who is well-endowed. In terms of sex or kink, they are a sexually dominant male who, for fun or financial gain, cuckolds and humiliates husbands while servicing their wives." S.A.D.I. gives her input before she rests her chin on the red-clothed shoulder now as she sighs. "But yes, hot chocolate and then TEC? Who knows, maybe Dear can go humanoid and dance with us as we get some drinks." Placing her hand in front of Cindi, a crystal snowflake pops up. It glitters white and gold with a slight blue glow to it as S.A.D.I. moves her hand away as it remained suspended and spinning slightly. "Early Merry Christmas like in the days of old and still now. Thought we could all dress up for New Years and thought this suited you and I have one for Dear, though if you guys don't like it I can go get something else. I have grown fond of you two, and I am proud to say that I would like us to be more than event buddies and become friends? After all we have run into each other at least a dozen or more times so that counts for going past acquaintances yes?" As she speaks another crystal snowflake pops up in front of Dear as it glowed silver and blue, spinning slightly as well. S.A.D.I. couldn't help but smile and hoped they liked the gifts and what she said was true. She was fond of them, and they never asked anything of her nor asked for her secrets on how she did things. They made her feel comfortable despite being what she was. She felt more human around them, and it was nice to say the least. Once the gifts were accepted. The crystal snowflake turns to sparkles like a bubble was popped. All the glitter coming back together to expose the gift that was inside. For Cindi, it was a winter dress (that glittered and sparkled like a snowflake. Dear on the other hand got what appeared to be a small looking ice lion (in armor. A giggle coming forth as she rubs his side." I'm sorry, Dear. I saw it and thought you would be adorable and... We could carry you around instead. Granted that feature allows you to levitate if you choose. But yes, let us move towards hot chocolate and to adventure!" ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Winter Wonderland Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.20pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero; Open Maybe it was because he wasn't entirely used to humans yet, the Outer didn't quite get much of Nero's second explanation and merely proceeded to strode away from the cosmetic store and into the lovely Winter Wonderland that Tiny Tina had arranged for all her followers. "Oh? Maybe I could!" They laughed. The idea of dancing didn't sound bad at all, and it would be the first time they did something like that. Yes. Dear was going to dance tonight and make their friends happy. They were surprised when Nero gave them a gift. This was the first time someone gave them something and the outer discovered a new feeling within them that he couldn't really tell what it was; but it felt nice. "Thank you, Nero! They open the preview feature to see how the avatar looked like and laughed. "I love it! And would definitely let you carry me around~" Dear added. They were so used at beinggiantscompared to the city's population that they had never thought about getting a little avatar; but the design Nero picked for them was adorable. Putting the precious item inside their inventory, Dear figured they should get something for Nero, and Cindi as well, so maybe they could escape the girls for a brief moment to do a little search. Walking along the many stands with typical Christmas food and drinks, there was a warm, sweet scent that caught Dear attention, and they turned toward the stand where the smell came from. They had found the first hot chocolate stand, and the outer couldn't wait to try it out, even if it was only a simulation. They would still be able to taste it and remember this moment as yet another first time for them. "I think you two are the... Connoisseurs here. What do you think?" ("Ellie" Musgrove (#msg14994416)Realm Name:Heartbreaker Location:Lobby Date/Time:December 24th, 2099 | 1920 hrs Gear:as shown Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Dear, Open Elliot received the alert just as he was clocking out at the station, hurrying straight home to log in and hurry to the lobby. He had worked for ages on the skin he was presenting tonight just for this costume contest. He knew that he could just use in game currency to enter contests when ready-made skins, but it always felt good to make something himself and show off even if he didn't win all the time. The best part was seeing the other's reactions to his work. He loaded into the lobby just outside the shops and waved as he saw a few familiar faces. It took a few seconds for all the textures for Heartbreaker to load in for him, but he was proud of his work once it was fully in view. "Looking good!" he called out to the group, glad to see everyone dressed so festively, and he strolled over to the hot chocolate stands to join them at least until more people showed up that he could talk to. "Are any of you entering the contest tonight?" he asked once he was close enough, trying not to appear like he was showing off. Even as he was supposed to be more charismatic in game, sometimes his offline insecurities got to him. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7:23pm. Location:Lobby, Hot chocolate stand Gear:(Nero, HeartbreakerCindi let out a laugh as Nero gave another speech correctly informing him what a bull was, what someone would call annoying Cindi found it brilliant as the other avatar explained away before resting her head on his shoulder turning from serious informative discussion to talk of drinks and dancing as though it was nothing more than a simple continuation. "Yes, yes yes. I would love to dance and that sounds so good." Cindi cheered reaching down and stroking Dear." Oooo what is this pretty thing?" Cindi asked as Nero reached forwards and held out a crystal snowflake. It fluttered beautifully causing girlish squeaks inside Cindi as the snowflake span before him. "It's a present?" Cindi asked happily as he reached forward quickly to grab it and a notification stretched across the screen. He quickly opened up the menu and looked at the gift which turned out to be a beautiful dress. "Oh my god that is suitor beautiful" Cindi beamed as he pulled up the items to view. "Yes, thank you so much Nero I love it." Cindi continued to giggle. "Yes I'd say we're friends I do enjoy spending time with you both." Cindi was to wrapped up in the dress to notice the sights around him loving how fancy the dress was that it took Dear to speak to snap put of his daze. "OOO I'm thinking a huge mug of it, whipped cream and marshmallows with an extra stick of chocolate. I don't know about you guys, but that's my idea of heaven." He was about to place his order when he heard someone call out towards them. As the huge half naked avatar moved towards them Cindi turned around to Nero and asked. "Who's this huge sack of hunk?" Before smiling at Heartbreaker as he got close enough waiting for Nero's response he tried to be polite to the new avatar. "No not me personally but I will come watch it now." He joked staring at the end on the avatar. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7.23PMGear:New outfit! (Dear, Heartbreaker The way they reacted to the gifts made Nero smile as they made their way to the stands. It was amazing how humanity was able to create such a realistic VR system that one can smell, taste, and feel as if they were there. For her, it wouldn't matter as code was code. Her field of vision was more than what they were seeing. There were the underlining strings of code that her eyes detected and all the overlays of color that could make the beings in front of her. Their location, codes that make them unique, and identifiers such as models and serial of their gear, etc. For her, it was all natural since the reality was, she was just a string of code herself." I am glad that the two of you enjoy your gifts. I saw them when we entered the holiday season and I just had to get them. It was a strange, what you call, impulse by? Oh, and I'm buying the hot chocolate. Dear, the important thing to ask yourself is do you like milk or dark chocolate? Marshmallow or whipped cream? Peppermint? Mint? Raspberry? Orange? The possibilities are endless and then, of course, do you wish for it to be hot, iced, or blended?" Nero begins to spout out various recipe variations for hot chocolate that it was ridiculous and potentially a tad overwhelming. After Cindi told them what their thought of heaven was made Nero smirk. The combination did sound good as she tried to figure out what her version appealed to her besides the classic. Then when a voice called out to them, she turns her head. The name "Heartbreaker" popping up in her mind as she looks to her friends and then back to him." I haven't, but I believe these two should. Especially with the latest item in their inventory or they can go as duet?" Nero replies before hopping off of Dear to walk to the hulking avatar. "Nero, and these are my friends Cindi and Dear. I recognize you, Heartbreaker, is it? Usually win originality in most skin contests, and you are known for your accessories as well. Do you still do commission on skins? I'm not looking, but it is always nice to update such information for future use." Green eyes look over to Cindi with a smile. "You really should go into the event with your present, Cindi. I think you would win 1st prize if not second." ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Winter Wonderland Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.20pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Heartbreaker; Open The large deer turned to see who was approaching them and recognized the familiar username. It was a name that the Outer hacker took quite literally and thought it could sound a little aggressive, but most people seemed to like it. They had interacted with Heartbreaker a few times before, and they were happy he decided to join their little group. "Of course!" The laughed, posing proudly with Cindi and Nero on their back. "I wonder if there would be a team contest..." The tilted their head, looking up to the girls. Hearing to Nero and her explanation on how to get his favorite kind of chocolate, they realized this was the first time they heard any of those terms. "Well... I think I'll have to try them all and find out which one I like! The deer laughed. "Okay, but only our first round, the second is on me, ladies and... Are you joining us, Heartbreaker?" ("Ellie" Musgrove (#msg14994416)Realm Name:Heartbreaker Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:December 24th, 2099 | 1920 hrs Gear:as shown Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Dear, Open Heartbreaker winked to Cindi's flirting, amused smirk on his lips. It always pleased him when people appreciated his work when he logged in. He watched as the woman slid off the dear's back, reading her name as Nero just before she spoke. He was impressed that she knew so much about him. Outside DnD Realms and the tight nit group that was the costume skin community, his name wasn't that well known." I always have one or two commission slots open though I had to slow down a bit because of the holidays," he admitted with a shrug. He set down the Santa bag which had no practical use besides just finishing off the look and crossed his arms comfortably. "Just shoot me a message if you decide you want a change though I'll definitely try to keep you this beautiful," he flirted lightly, turning his attention to Dear when the deer spoke." If you don't mind me joining. I can pay for my own if you don't want me on the tab," he told them with a bright chuckle. "Might I suggest the dark chocolate with peppermint? It's the perfect mix of bitter and sweet." (Tina Location:Prancing about~Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.25pmGear:Kitty suit! (Dear, Nero, Heartbreaker Tina couldn't wait another minute to jump right into her VR world and hang out with her followers. It was always exciting to have so many people around, waiting for her, waiting to take pictures, play and chat with her. It was fun! And everything she couldn't do outside the realms, at least not at such a massive scale. Wearing her signature skin, she teleported near the lobby area to greet people and start having with everyone. Nearby the food and drink stands, the young girl spotted an interesting group and decided to give them a little surprise." Hi~" She pounced on them. "You guys look amazing!" Tina displayed a big, bright smile emoji with a Santa hat above her head that exploded into snowflakes. She studied all avatars quickly, noticing there was something up with the pretty green haired lady. It wasn't anything dangerous, but it was odd to find someone that could get into her coding. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7:25pm. Location:Lobby, Hot chocolate stand Gear:(Nero, Heartbreaker, Tiny Tina, Opening sat on top of Dear's back remaining their as Nero jumped off down to greet the newcomer who winked back at his flirting giving him an instant rush. Even in the virtual world flirting was still flirting and Torrid loved it. Torrid waited until the pair had stopped speaking and Nero looked up at him smiling and suggesting that he enter the contest too. " I don't know the dress is lovely and would kick most people asses, but that guy is huge and look at them bulging abs... I mean Louis" Cindi spoke playfully fanning himself in jest. "You know what you've convinced me where do I sign up." Then Dear came up with a better idea. "Team contests AAAA" He squealed excitedly. "I am so there... Look with Heartbreaker we have Santa and Rudolph." He waited to see if Heartbreaker was joining the group and smiled as the giant man posing as Santa agreed. "Nonsense were all friends here Heartbreaker. Of course, you can join and your more than welcome on the tab... well that depends on it seems like you’ve had a lot of milk growing up" He joked making a joke about the avatars large and impressive stature. "This one might run us out of house and home" He playfully teased. Cindi heard a new voice from behind and turn to see none other than Tiny Tina stood behind them and frozen in excitement his fingers digging into Dear;s side in pure excitement as he leaned down and whispered into Dear ear. "Look it's Tiny Tinaaaaaaa." He tried to be quite and in his mind he was, but outwardly he sounded like a school girl being asked prom. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7.25PMGear:New outfit! (Dear, Heartbreaker, Tiny Tina Nero nods as everyone begins to talk about who pays for what round, drink suggestions, etc. Something that she was always curious about were the people who played these personas and what were they like in real life. Why escape here? Was it to make friends? To be popular? Searching for fame? It was easy enough to piggyback on the signals and code to determine who and where they were logging in from, but that was just rude. Though it has served her purposes well from time to time. A fond memory came to her as she sat in front of her creator as he sat in his chair. The two of them staring at the crackling fire as he drank the eggnog that she made for him. He spoke fondly of his children and grandchildren, but after his wife's death, they stopped visiting him. That she was the light of his world and then one day his daughter came home to introduce him to someone. His grandchild and how it warmed him and his bones. That despite him working so hard to make their life better he ended up destroying what he loved the most. Nero came out of their thoughts quickly when a figure appeared before them and Cindi's voice went up three octaves higher in a delightful squeal. Tiny Tina and her looked at each other as she gives the woman a little curtsy in her dress and smiles warmly. "Nice to meet you in the VR person, Tiny Tina, and we are happy you created such a great event. Thank you for your compliment and I must say, love your outfit as well! If I am not too forward, can I buy you a hot chocolate and if we can get a picture with you? My friend Cindi and Dear, and I'm sure Heartbreaker as well are huge fans. Though based on Cindi's reaction, they are classified as a super fan I believe." ("Ellie" Musgrove (#msg14994416)Realm Name:Heartbreaker Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:December 24th, 2099 | 1920 hrs Gear:as shown Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Dear, Tiny Tina, Open Heartbreaker was glad he didn't code in blushing for this avatar as he was blushing under the visor at home at Cindi's compliments. "Why not make it a team? With you two, there's no way we'll lose," he grinned brightly. "The other contestants won't know what hit them." He knew he had done good work, and Cindi and Dear certainly looked formidable on their own. He was pulled from his thoughts as he heard a family voice, nearly jumping when he turned and saw one of his idles standing there." Hey, Miss Tina. Thank you for hosting another great contest," he greeted, thinking she probably didn't recognize his username. She was a busy person, so it wouldn't surprise him if she didn't remember that he had won a few of her past challenges. He threw up a similar emoji of a winking Santa over his own head. "Want me to buy you a cocoa?" he offered smoothly. ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Winter Wonderland Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.20pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Heartbreaker, Tina; Open(Tina Location:Prancing about~Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.25pmGear:Kitty suit! (Dear, Nero, Heartbreaker There were many, many words that surely meant something for humans that passed just above the Outer's head while the others spoke. There was still so much they needed to learn about this amazing species and one of those things was the complexity of their language and expression. Of course, this wasn't the right time or place to do that. Although maybe he could ask Nero for help later. The deer avatar had their ears twitching when a very well known voice suddenly joined their conversation and Dear turned toward Tina, containing themselves so they wouldn't send Cindi flying off their back. "I know!" They whispered back to Cindi. This was unbelievable!" Yes! It's me!" Tina chuckled, looking over Cindi and Dear. The young girl walked closer to the group, inspecting the amazing skins. "Aw, thanks Nero! I'd gladly join you guys for a cup of hot chocolate!"" I love my super fans." Tina showed an animated version of herself cheering as she reached out with a hand toward Cindi. "Nice to meet you everyone!" When the large avatar known as Heartbreaker spoke to he, Tina recognized him immediately. A red exclamation point appeared over her head and she pointed at the avatar. "You, Mister, have been stealing many first places!" She laughed, sending a winking emoji back to him. There was no way Tina could remember everyone's name, but Heartbreaker, as long as few others were easily recognizable thanks to their fame among other players or after winning several contests." It's a pleasure to meet you Tina!" Dear dared to express, their avatar bowing carefully to keep Cindi from falling. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7:25pm. Location:Lobby, Hot chocolate stand Gear:(Nero, Heartbreaker, Tiny Tina, Opening couldn't believe it when Tiny Tina accepted Nero's offer to join the group for a hot chocolate. It was something he had never experienced before, meeting a celebrity was something new to him, and it was written on his face with a huge childish grin as he gripped Dear in joy. He was an amazing Hacker with skills that where hard to come by making him in hot demand but at that moment Torrid was as star struck as any other nerd would be in that situation and rendered speechless. Tiny Tina walked towards him and time seemed to slow down as the avatar stretched her hand out towards him. 'Play it cool, play it cool" he couldn't help but think to himself as he reached out and shook Tiny Tina's hand. He played it cool in the VR world in the real world however he crashed into someone carrying a load of empty glasses sending them to the floor shattering. "Nice to meet you too" Cindi squeaked excitedly. ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 7.25PMGear:New outfit! (Dear, Heartbreaker, Tiny Tina Nero watched how everyone interacted with Tiny Tina with curious eyes and Dear and Heartbreaker as well. Funny how the vastness of the Internet that connected the people a hundred years ago with AOL has turned to this experience. Now they were able to meet into a virtual world that only Hollywood concocted up such as Ready Player One. Granted it has somewhat become like that ironically. Tracing a frame around the group for a "screenshot" as she sends it to Cindi and Dear with an emoji smile and snowflake. As they seemed to continue interacting with each other is when Nero stepped up to a stall. Ordering the various hot chocolates for everyone as two circular trays appeared in her hands. Sending over the digital currency she walks up to the group once again." Dark chocolate peppermint, traditional hot chocolate with large marshmallows, black forest hot chocolate with whipped cream and cherry on top, chocolate lovers hot chocolate with shaved chocolate trio, and chocolate raspberry," nods Nero as she stands before them. "Hope you don't mind, Heartbreaker, and I'm sure you can buy the next round." Nero smiles over to the large Santa and sends a winking emoji to them and waits for everyone to take a mug. Looking around to the other patrons she notices how some seem to be realizing who was present and started to take pictures and because who Tiny Tina was around some didn't want to approach. It wasn't because anyone was intimidating, but they could see she was busy which was surprising since rarely others cared about manners in a VR world. Granted this washer world so that alone meant don't piss off the moderator. ("Ellie" Musgrove (#msg14994416)Realm Name:Heartbreaker Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:December 24th, 2099 | 1925 hrs Gear:as shown Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Dear, Tiny Tina, Open Heartbreaker's avatar flushed when Tina recognized him, honestly not expecting it. "I do my best," he grinned at her as he was honestly glad she had noticed his efforts in hers and others' contests. He was happy to be the one who "stole" the contests as he didn't make any shortcuts in his avatar art. Even if two had the same or similar faces, he made sure to decode them every single time to make them unique. He winked to Nero when she promised to let him pay for the next round before letting her pay for the first. ((#msg14937484)Realm username:Reallocation:Winter Wonderland Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.20pm. Gear:Brown fur and saddle. Tagging:Cindi, Nero, Heartbreaker, Tina; Open(Tina Location:Prancing about~Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7.25pmGear:Kitty suit! (Dear, Nero, Heartbreaker"Thank you, Nero." The deer said, bending down for Cindi to jump down of their back. "Ride's over for the moment, Cindi." They chuckled while going into the inventory to activate Nero's gift. The large deer suddenly seemed to disappear as they transformed into the little icy lion-like creature. Laughing at their new image, Dear quickly learned how to float about and picked up their mug from Nero's trail. Being careful not to spill any of the deliciously smelling chocolate, they sat on the green haired avatar's shoulder. "Hope you don't mind." They chuckled before trying the hot beverage, holding the large cup with both... Paws. "Oh... This is good..." Dear spoke quietly, taking a deep breath of steamy, chocolate scented air. Tina's helmet disappeared when Nero approached with the mugs and the young woman smiled brightly at her, showing a perfect image of her real face turned digital. "Thank you! She grabbed her mug with a bright smile before looking around when she was alerted about a large group of people gathering nearby. Nothing to worry about other some minor possibility of having a bit of lag. "Don't look now, guys, but I think we're being watched." Tina giggled, sending a large waving emoji toward a small group of people that dared reaching closer to them. (Vulcan (#msg14941182)Realm Username: Candidate/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 7:25pm. Location:Lobby, Hot chocolate stand Gear:(Nero, Heartbreaker, Tiny Tina, Opening smiled as she revived the screenshot from Nero in her inventory. "That will make a great screensaver" Cindi announced. Torrid then flicked her eyes to the side sending the file towards the transfer to home computer files. Cindi continued to thank Nero as her hot chocolate appeared in front of her, and she took her first sips letting out a near orgasmic moan from the taste. Cindi let out a playful "WWW" in jest to Dear's comment about the ride being over even shooting a "spoil sport" his way while laughing and sticking out her tongue as she got down. Watching as he disappeared and turn into a little ice lion. "WWW" Cindi squeaked looking at Dear's new avatar. Cindi watched on as Tina waved towards the group smiling at them happily but inside gloating that she had met Tint Tina and not them. "Well what do we call you now... DeereX doesn't fit no more.... CuteeeX?" Cindi giggled pointing out Dear's shift. (Tina Location:Stage Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 10pm. Gear:Kitty suit! (meeting many of the event attendants and participating in a couple of the winter games, Tiny Tina returned to realm base to take a break and start taking a good look to all the contest participants. Everyone was heading toward the stage where the winners would be announced and Tina was as excited as all the players. The skins this year were amazing as always, and the competition would be tough. Everyone! It's time to announce the winners for the Christmas skin contest, 2099! Tina's voice reached across her realm and the words appeared in front of everyone. People cheered and gathered close to the stage while the contestants stepped up. As always, we'll announce the People's Choice first and then the Realm winner! Start voting for your favorite skin, guys! Tiny Tina pranced across the stage, giving time for people to vote while studying the costumes she was judging from close. She would pose for a picture or two with every participant, uploading the images to her own social media. A couple of minutes passed and the People's Choice award was ready to be announced. Tina stood in the middle of the stage and removed her helmet. The crowd cheered and screamed, clapping as they worshiped their VR and real life idol. Tina smiled brightly and threw a couple of cute emojis above her head before taking some air. Are you excited guys?! We have the results! Get ready... The winner of the People's Choice award, 2099 goes to... Nero! ((#msg14941081))Realm Username:Nero Location:Lobby, Hot Chocolate Stand Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099 / 10PMGear:New outfit! (Dear, Tiny Tina Nero watched at her friend' changed into their gifts and when Dear came to sit on her shoulder she smiled. Reaching up to pat their head as her hand curled with her index finger out to scratch under their chin before it took a sip. "Not minding at all. You enjoy yourself, just don't activate your power by accident and freeze your hot chocolate is all," she nods as she watches the was Cindi fawns over their companion's new skin. The name "Cutter" did seem more appropriate for this moment, but who knows how long it would truly stay? Either way, to Nero Dear will remain as Dear no matter what new nickname they may adopt. Activating a hover effect, the two of them moved when Tiny Tina began working her rounds and the contest for her world was underway. Easily avoiding people, so her friend didn't spill their cocoa as her and Cindi spoke. The things they spoke of really was her activating their gift for the contest, so everyone had a chance to look at them as she told them both that they will most likely be the winners since contests were not her thing. A few more times they made their way to the hot chocolate stands as the ideas of pranks came up. Though in bad taste since they were in someone else's VR, and it wouldn't be right at this moment. From time to time Nero would be looking around to see the other fans and contestants doing some finishing touches to their skins before parading around. All the chatter stopping when Cindi's idol took the stage. Her announcement about people's choice before picking the realms winner brought out loud hoot and hollers. There was a young one whose skin was the "sugar plum fairy" as glittering, purple wings sent out glitter everywhere as her outfit whips around her." You are so going to win!" Smiles one of the friends as they gush over them. A mixture between pumping them up and sucking up happening." I know I got this! There is no way no one can beat me! I stand out and no one can ignore me," they nodded arrogantly as they looked over peoples shoulders and whispering in ears. Some things never change. As time ran out, Tiny Tina alerted people she was going to speak by using her emoji's as everyone quieted down for her. Nero was surprised that she removed her helmet, but it wasn't like her face was a secret either. The young woman was lovely and the various flashes as people took her photos was almost to the verge of annoying for Nero as she wanted to accidentally cancel out the feature. Are you excited guys?! We have the results! Get ready... The winner of the People's Choice award, 2099 goes to... Nero![/b]For the first time, Nero stood there speechless. Eyes going wide as she wondered what in the world made people want to vote for her? Yes, the attire was cute, but there were so many more that were qualified. Hers was old-fashioned as a slight wail could be heard and Nero's coding indicated it came from the fairy as her friends comforted her. Somone. Shoot me, Nero thought and covered her face with one hand. (Tina Location:Stage Date/Time:Thursday, December 24th, 2099. 10pm. Gear:Kitty suit! (cheered for Nero, watching as she was almost carried up to the stage for a selfie with Tiny Tina and receive her prize. A pack with assorted accessories and a white rabbit mount for Nero to prance about the server's lands." Congratulations, Nero!" Tina beamed, throwing a red and green confetti emoji over their heads so they could take a beautiful, Christmasy picture together. Nero stepped down the stage and everyone went silent. And now! It's time to announce my favorite skin! But... This year everyone did such an amazing job! Tina walked from end of the stage to the other, her voice echoing all over the server. I can't decide, guys! What should I do? She teased the excited crowd, popping a confused emoji before giggling happily. I know! A lightbulb flickered above her colorful head. I'm going to choose two winners! The crowd went crazy, and Tina walked to stand closer to the year's participants. The winners are... She allowed the tension to build up for a couple of seconds. Cindi and Heartbreaker! Their prize materialized in front of everybody. A key to a fully decorated Candy Fantasy home and a beautiful blue, flying fox mount. The prize!((

Cyber City - VR Fantasia|rating:4.0

[Sovereign's Sky] - Character Sheets, Game Information

Character Sheets Colin "Miles" Walker-Aiden (Combat specialty, Long Range.) Dawn Becker - Amelia (Survival specialty, Medicine.) Jen-Jones- Jazz (Tech specialty, Computer.) Active Characters Colin "Miles" Walker - 10 Dawn Becker - 10 Owen Jones - 10 Game InformationSettingThe setting is an extremely large desert world, populated by a variety of cities. The planet does have water bodies, though its oceans, and small seas cover little of the surface, comparatively. The technological level of these cities is known to be extremely diverse. At some point in the past, at least 440 years prior to the current date, many nations had emerged and were challenging each other in increasingly dangerous wars. The population at this time is known to have been much greater than it is now. From this conflict, several superpowers emerged, all of which entered an arms race. In some way, these parties all set above them, figuratively, and literally, the orbiting Sovereign. Sovereign is a network of orbiting satellites. This automated network became the ultimate force. At the time, drone warfare was the standard, with warfare claiming fewer lives than ever, Sovereign essentially co-opted the entire system. Sovereign was capable of linking with, and controlling, any deployed drone, and deploying weapons and drones of its own. Between that time, and now, the world has changed greatly. Now, societies are organized using Sovereign as a tool. Cities are self-sufficient, usually isolated from the outside, so that most citizens never leave the place of their birth. Less advanced settlements eke out more meager existences. Inside cities, policing is done by a special class of citizen. All societies which make use of Sovereign, have Justices, which use a law system common among them. Sovereign provides the force for judgements made by Justices, and monitors these societies constantly. Settlements outside of Sovereign's operating zone, which do not use it, are organized in their own ways. These societies continue to exist because of their dislike of Sovereign, either because they dislike the concept, or the necessity of using its system of law. The third kind of settlement which exists is one that actively opposes Sovereign. Sovereign's original purpose is still in effect, as it effectively eliminates any drones, or autonomous robots that it does not control. With the relatively low population in any individual settlement, this rule, the only one enforced outside of Sovereign's cities, ensures that life is very difficult for those not inside those cities. Without drones, even agricultural, and industrial ones, which those cities have, thanks to Sovereign, resources are very limited. Some settlements make use of old technology to shield themselves from Sovereign. These settlements promise a moderately comfortable living, without Sovereign's law. These settlements exist because Sovereign's coverage of the planet is not complete. Furthermore, in zones which have effectively escaped Sovereign, war has emerged once more. Korvus City This is the opening city for the characters, and one under the control of Sovereign. The city makes extensive use of drones, though its overall level of technology is low for cities, it nonetheless maintains a high standard of living for its citizens. The city has approximated 300,000 people, all of whom live in its three massive towers. The city itself is fairly idyllic inside, being sealed off from the harsh desert outside, the interior is comfortable, clean, and orderly thanks to the city's twelve Justices, and the fairly small police force of about a 200. Most jobs are in the service industry, wealth is more or less evenly distributed. Art and music are common professions, while more labor intensive jobs maintaining the city's infrastructure, engineers, doctors, computer technicians, are among the most wealthy of its citizens. The majority of the population remains inside the city for their entire life, except for rare times during the year when an outdoor stroll might be reasonable. Corvus City is, however, quite some distance away from its main source of resources, the drone-run factory some ten miles from the city produces food, mines for ore, and produces textiles, all to be shipped back to the city. The most dangerous job in Corvus city is left up to Runners. Essentially soldiers, they escort engineers, or technicians, even sometimes mechanics, to and from the factory when a problem arises with the drones, or the machinery. Given the prevalence of desert creatures small and large, this job pays extremely well, but is rarely done for long by a consistent group. Although in some places the means for producing new tools and even drones exist, Corvus city is relegated to trading for replacements or reusing, and refurbishing old technology. Modifications to one's body are common, though more extreme replacements, like eyes, or limbs are very expensive. The records of the city only detail the surrounding terrain as far as a hundred miles in all directions. The nearest known settlement is a small camp on the edge of the nearest low mountain range to the north. The nearest city is supposedly somewhere beyond that, but travel is rare, and when traders do arrive, the cost for information is usually much higher than that of the goods. SystemWhile I'm not usually partial to systems, this is one I'm hoping will serve to create challenge and balance in combat and role-playing. More than anything good role-playing will accomplish a great deal of what will happen in the game. However, some restrictions will have to exist given the variety of what might be possible in the setting, and during the story. The system follows a breakdown of four parts.Tech-Covering interaction with, and understanding of, technology.Survival-Covering interaction with, and understand of, the natural environment, and animals.Combat-Covering interaction with, and understanding of, weaponry and fighting.Social-Covering interaction with, and understanding of, cultures and interpersonal interaction. These basically cover any eventuality of the story. Each character will get a score in each of these. Modifiers for these attributes exist in the form of modifications directly to one's body, clothing, and tools. Items like tools, weapons, and other supplies interact in some ways with multiple attributes. For example, an artificial eye might grant a benefit to Tech, Survival, and Combat, but in some settlements could be a great hindrance to Social. Items, like clothing, weapons, tools, and supplies, can have a required attribute score to use, and provide a benefit to attributes. Clothing, when worn, generally provides some benefit to Survival, and Combat, for example, but may be negative, positive or neutral in terms of Social, or Tech. Weapons provide both new means for attack, and additional power for attacks. Tools generally affect Tech score in circumstances where they are useful, but may provide a penalty if used inappropriately. Combat is handled quickly, and hopefully will seem straightforward. Weapons are usually devastating, and defense is not much of an issue. Role-playing is essential to combat. Each point in the Survival attribute is a point of health. Combat values determine the to-hit probability, taking into account distance, and the weapon used. Being closer to an enemy means that accuracy approaches point-blank guarantee. If an attack hits, its value above the threshold of a hit determines the location of the hit. A critical hit is almost always an immediate kill, while grazing hit might not even take off a Hotpoint, but might instead impose an attribute penalty. The chance required to hit is calculated from the combat value. Character Creation Character Sheet:Name: (Character's name)Age: (Character's age)Appearance: (Picture, Description, or both)Bio: (Character history, personality.) StatsLevel: (All characters are level 1 at creation)Tech: (Minimum 1 at creation)Survival: (Minimum 1 at creation)Combat: (Minimum 1 at creation)Social: (Minimum 1 at creation)Specialty: (No minimum)Weapons: (Types preferred, no stats available until game start)(The follow section applies for modifications, clothing and items which provide bonuses and or penalties only.) Modifications: (None at character creation without permission)Clothing: (None at character creation without permission)Items: (None at character creation without permission)Character Creation follows from the system with attribute and specialty points. Attribute points can be distributed any way you wish. The values of each attribute is an automatic 1. You have six additional attribute points, when building a new character. Each attribute has corresponding specialities. These provide bonuses for more focused categories of activity. Specialities requires certain attribute levels to be chosen. Each new character has one specialty point. The basic specialities available to starting characters are:Tech:(Requires at least 4 Tech to choose basic Tech specialty)Computer - Grants +2 to Tech when dealing with computers (identification, operation, repair, etc.) Robotics - Grants +2 to Tech when dealing with robotic hardware (identification, operation, repair, etc.) Survival:(Requires at least 4 Survival to choose basic Survival specialty)Voyager - Grants +2 to Survival when dealing with animals, plants, and travel Medicine - Grants +2 to Survival when healing or diagnosing injury, or +2 to Tech when operating medical instruments Combat:(Requires at least 4 Survival to choose basic Survival specialty)Close Combat - Grants +2 to Combat when attacking unarmed, or with a melee weapon Short Range - Grants +2 to Combat when attacking with a short range weapon (basic pistol, thrown weapon, etc.) Medium Range - Grants +2 to Combat when attacking with a medium range weapon (basic rifle, basic launcher, etc.) Long Range - Grants +2 to Combat when attacking with a long range weapon (basic scoped rifle, etc.) Social:(Requires at least 2 Social to choose basic Social specialty)Merchant - Grants +2 to Social when bargaining Deception Training - Grants +2 to Social when deceiving, or detecting deception Level is the evaluation of the advancement of a character, all characters start at level 1. Levels are gained through experience (though not by gaining points of experience) and each advancement grants additional attribute points, though specialty points are rarer and are granted only once every few levels. When creating a character, the prime focus should be on role-play. Your character cannot have an unjustified specialty. A character with the Voyager specialty, for example, must have travelled outside the city walls. While your character may not have been working in their area of specialty, your bio should reflect your character build, or your character build, your bio. See the section in Setting on Corvus City for information on the starting city. ItemsOne of the concerns in this game is that there is a certain level of in-world realism that will be maintained. This includes making sure every character knows what they have with them, from items, to clothing, to tools and weapons. For this reason, the character creation is light on details in these areas, because the characters will, for the most part, start out on a basic, and even footing. Commerce during the story will provide for the outfitting of all characters. In the weapon section you may note a weapon preference for your character. The opening storyline will provide much of the action in terms of outfitting characters with basic supplies, and a basic kit summary will be available then. Setting Reference This section should serve as an outline for the setting in more detail. Although it won't be comprehensive, I'm hoping to address major points, and if any questions arise, I can clarify this section, or add to it, as required. WorldThe history of the world includes very little concentration on looking outward, though the pre-sovereign civilizations were clearly capable of putting satellites in orbit. The planet has no real name aside from "earth" or "the world." The main desert, located along a wide swath of the planet with the equator at its center. This desert is called Corps. The largest ocean body is the Long Sea. The Long Sea's widest point sits above the equator, making the easiest crossing in the south. The desert is punctuated by small rocky hills, as well as larger rocky mountain ranges. Most larger mountain ranges tend to be focuses to the north and south of the desert proper. Most of the temperate zones are located between the poles and the mountains. The poles are cold, though the lack of moisture makes snow a rarity, and these cold regions are essentially wastelands of ice and stone. Most of the large lakes and rivers are trapped in, and run inside the mountain ranges. The planet is extremely rich in metals but scarce of many other elements. The failure of the systems which kept cities and settlements safe from the desert in pro-sovereign times has left much of those cities to be reclaimed by the desert. In many places, cities have a buried older ground-level section surrounding them. Many power-generation stations also disappeared over time, as their collection arrays were covered by sand, and fell into disrepair. The extent to which the planet had be made habitable by pre-sovereign civilizations is unknown, but assumed to be much greater than now exists. A few remnants of pre-sovereign war still exist in the form of obvious landmarks. The two most obvious of these are the burnt plain, and the glass lake. The burnt plain is a swath of formerly temperate land which remains harsh an uninhabitable, more so even than the desert. Its land is hard stone, and punctuated by black stone spikes which all curve toward the mountains, and which all appear to be burnt, especially against the lighter stone of the mountains. The glass lake is massive crater in the desert, the inside of which is covered in a rough bowl of glass. Water tends to gather inside of it, and it is nearly full year round. Although created sometime before Sovereign, the lake remains uncovered, thanks to its relatively high elevation, though it now has a sandy lake-bed, the glass is still visible. General InformationEnergyClean energy technologies were the standard early on in the history of technological development. Although some fuels were used their variety and availability made their abandonment necessary and other forms of power generation arose. Fission reactors were the standard before more advanced means of collecting solar energy, and of more effective means of transmitting collected energy. In the current state, many settlements outside of Sovereign's control use fission reactors once more. Cities tend to rely on their original means of energy generation, though a few have augmented this since, depending on their ability to fabricate new collection panels for sunlight. The scarcity of material for fission reactors tends to promote some local combat among settlements using this method, and quite often, a loss of power means death, as power is the minimum requirement for running the systems used to grow hydroponic crops. CitiesCities are usually the most advanced remaining parts of pre-Sovereign world. Usually built upward, they can range from a few thousand to a few million inhabitants. Cites are usually run, and ordered by Justices. These are the eyes of the law, serving to provide evidence and judgements to Sovereign. Policing is done by Sovereign, despite the existence of a police force under the Justices, Sovereign serves both to punish criminals, and to protect the rights of civilians. On those instances when Justices have attempted to exert more authority over the population than allowed for, they are punished as swiftly, and usually more harshly, than common criminals. Justices communicate with Sovereign with a specialized form of terminal, which is implanted along their forearm. These terminals are limited in number, cities can become lawless, and have, due to a complete loss of working terminals. TransportationMost vehicles are ground-based, relying on wheeled or hovering movement to cross the sands, and other terrains. There are new vehicles, though most remain restored relics of pre-Sovereign years. Vehicles range from single-occupant cars, usually hovering, to mass-transport buses, and industrial vehicles. As hovering requires more power, these vehicles have fallen mostly out of use. Most vehicles are readopted for onboard power collection, to allow them to extend their normal range greatly, and with daylight rests, indefinitely. Lighter than air ships still exist, some of which are still in the sky, assumed to be kept on course automatically. No cities remain with an intact dock for one of these vessels. The most common use for hovering, are nomadic settlements. Looking something like moving islands, these settlements are seen very rarely, but tend to be considered as the highest achievement of technology among settlements, as these settlements generate their own power, and manage to sustain themselves without any of the infrastructure which remains for the cities. Clothing, Armor, and Protection Clothing within cities is generally fashionable, and follows individual tastes. Made from natural textiles created in factories, this clothing is not useful for survival, but comes in almost any variety of color and texture. Armor can be physically hard, provide a more advanced more of energy field, or function to enhance individual abilities. Armor of the latter varieties is well-maintained though it becomes rarer as its complexity increases. Armor factories still exist in some places, which provide local cities with greatly enhanced protection. Furthermore, some types of armor are designed to greatly extend survival in extreme environments, and are invaluable to those travelling long distances. RuinsMost of the planet's cities are in ruins, and great deal of what was formerly part of current cities is lost to the desert. Avenging is profitable, though dangerous. Scavengers provide for a lot of the more advanced technology available, and are usually rich, if still living. CommerceCommerce is conducted mostly through bartering. Within cities, offices exist to convert goods into city-currency. Currency is not useful outside the cities, and so, valuable stones are a common form of item to use outside a city. Stones are useful for many forms of technology though there is some risk that one's stones might not be as valuable in other places if one travels widely. In general stones are cut to "C" which is currency size, and one C is generally translated as 100 credits in cities which use that currency standard. C is a variable size for different gems, but all are cut to "C." Local Stellar Bodies The planet orbits a yellow dwarf star, and has two moons. These moons are Versa and Era. Versa is by far the largest in the sky, though they are relatively the same size, Versa is closer to the planet, while Era is further away. Versa has a relatively slow orbit, while Era is much quicker. Versa orbits the planet fully once every sixty days, while Era takes only ten. The closest visible planet is Near a planet which is visible for four days at a time, four times a year. Being in the same orbital path, Near appears almost the same size as Era in the sky when it is closest, but it is considerably further away. Near has a blue tint, unlike the moons which are white. Environment and Animal Life Geography and Weather Although most of the planet is a desert wasteland punctuated by rocky hills and some mountain ranges, there do exist some smaller temperate, and even forested zones. The desert is prone to long periods of very little activity, punctuated by powerful sandstorms. The storms come during the storm season, which usually lasts about half the year. During particularly powerful sandstorms, the danger of travelling is so extreme that even well-equipped travelers will avoid leaving the safety of a settlement, even with shelter, a vehicle at rest can be buried under sand and disappear quite easily. The oceans and seas, though relatively small compared with the landmass, are quite calm. Rivers and streams are usually subterranean, and feed from higher, cooler mountain ranges in temperate zones, to the low-elevation of the oceans and seas. The planet has a moderate level of volcanic activity, though most of the volcanic regions are uninhabited some temperate regions with standing cities have controlled their local volcanic activity with engineered run-off, and geothermal energy generation. Animal Life Most large forms of life occupy the small temperate zones, and these zone function as ecosystems. Very few apex predators exist, however those which do are often still extremely dangerous. Most information on these species was lost, and what remains is mostly accumulated by experience, and common knowledge. The most dangerous creatures in the temperate zones are Allosaurs, and Felix. Arkosaurs are dominant reptiles with massive crushing jaws, covered entirely in hard armor plates, they inhabit rivers and streams, and lakes, attacking anything which enters the water, although their legs can propel them quite a distance out of the water, their bulk makes pursuit inviable, and if they don't initially succeed in attack, they will usually relent. Felin are a flying, and running bird. Mostly keeping to gliding at low-altitude, the Felix are group-hunting predators with large hook-like claws which simultaneously cut and grab, allowing them to carry off, and kill, smaller prey simultaneously, while they generally attack vital spots on larger prey, such as the neck, or legs, searching for major arteries. They have adapted to avoid humans for the most part, but not all of them are accustomed to human presence, and so may remain dangerous. The desert regions are inhabited mostly by insects. Although not particularly dangerous to humans in general, they may be poisonous, or too numerous to deal with if directly disturbed. Further, their hives create certain problems for travel, as although their hives remain relatively immune from the desert, they collapse quite easily if overburdened from above, if not avoided, they can sink an entire vehicle. The dominant desert insect is the Landlords. These social insects account for most insect life. Being fiercely territorial, and extremely adept builders, their hives can rise above the sands to considerable height, and dig deep enough to access subterranean lakes and rivers. Their intelligence as a group is considerable, allowing them to mimic nearby structures, and even form three-dimensional maps, with which to direct commands to the swarm. Queens are numerous, and although there is always an Empress of a hive, these are replaceable by any one of the queens. The Landlord is seen as useful to travelers for two reasons. First, they have a propensity for finding buried ruins. Landlords have been known to build into ruins, filling the open halls with ramps, and buildings of their own, and making use of the stability inside to house their queens. Thankfully, most Landlords tend not to invade the ruins too deeply, preferring to build upward, instead of downward, as sandstorms sometimes leave hives with only the tips of their tallest spires as their new exits. The second benefit of Landlords are their water-seeking habits. Because their hives require a great deal of water, both for construction and breeding, the quickest way to know where to bore for water is by finding a Landlord hive. More than a few settlements were created this way, in unlikely locations, because they had previously undiscovered subterranean lakes, indicated by Landlord presence. Though only rarely encroaching on human activity, Landlords are dealt with as a pest when they do, the easiest way to deal with them is burial flooding. Unless a Landlord hive is situated over a ruin, sufficient water can flood its tunnels and destroy its foundations, destroying the hive from the bottom up, by sinking it into its subterranean water source. The largest creature on the planet, and the dominant sea creature are Barony. These massive creatures have multiple forms of defense, and massive jaws. Close in size to an airship, these creatures are built from the competitive environment of the ocean. Most animals in the ocean are hunters. Although ocean-floor plants do provide a great deal of nutrition, they are hunted, as remaining alive requires power or speed. Bottom feeding fish are quick, small, and tend to keep moving. The Barony passively ingest everything they come across by "breathing" ocean water, through wide-gapped jaws, and "exhaling" through a dense set of hard ribs, which trap anything large enough to provide the Barony food. Having a set of three pairs of side-fins, and a double dorsal fin, with a massive shark-like tail, the Barony is mostly a smooth blue colored fish. Though actually a fish, it does tend to swim close to the surface, as it allows marine birds to clean its back, and to expose, and therefore defeat, smaller (but still quite large) predatory fish which sometimes attack its dorsal fins. Barron are found in almost every large body of water on the planet, but can only migrate in rivers and lakes in their infancy, adults are far too large. Computers and Personal TechnologyHolographics provide the standard displays for all computers. Emitters for these displays are extremely efficient, small, and are capable of acting in response to touch, even though they are insubstantial, their emitters are both projectors, and receivers. Personal versions of computers are usually implanted, in the wrist or forearm, and called 'terminals.' Computing is very powerful, for those with the knowledge to use it, however, most actual data from the pre-Sovereign era, and even early Sovereign years is gone. Cities are run by their own local super-computers, which are in turn governed by Sovereign. Artificial intelligence is uncommon, but not unknown. Although lacking personalities, and emotions, artificial intelligences are powerful tools for computers capable of running them. Usually, hardware is the limiting factor in artificial intelligence capability, but a small computer, the size of an apple, configured properly, could run an AI many times more powerful in function than a city super-computer. Malfunctions in AI systems are common, and require a great deal of programming and hardware expertise to maintain beyond their normal operational life. Computers are an ever-present reality. Within cities, they do the heavy-lifting of local organization, providing the network for commerce, and communication. Although the actual interface has changed very little in a very long time, even since pre-sovereign times, the underlying architecture was radically different from earlier computers by the year 0 A.P. Computers are built up from the nanometer scale, providing for extreme miniaturization of powerful computers. However, for the storage and computation necessary for larger tasks, like co-ordinating power systems in a city, larger machines usually no larger than a small room located somewhere near the center of a city. Storage hardware comes in the form of clear crystals. These crystals are grown, quite commonly inside of cities, as their creation is automated, and requires no drones. They serve as a form of holographic storage, where data is written in three dimensions inside the crystal. Crystals are extremely hard, and very resilient when it comes to disruptions of data, and their contents may be recovered even when broken. The difference between personal (wrist terminal, or portable terminal) and full size terminals tend to differ from so-called full-size terminals only in their ability to read crystals. Full-size terminals have the cradle which can read crystals. Although a wrist terminal’s projector/receiver can identify one layer of data on a crystal, a reader is required for its ability to read on all the levels required for the data storage, and also has the system required to write new data onto a crystal. Crystals cannot be erased, though if they have remaining storage they can continue to be written on. Computers are usually accessed on their own terminal displays, or if they have none, by connecting to it with a personal terminal. Computers do not require physical connection to communicate, though physical connections are often faster, and preferable when hacking or modifying programming, as a wireless connection can be terminated by either computer, and this is often the first automated defense against tampering.AI computers are intelligent to the extent that they can learn and adapt to new non-pre-programmed circumstances, without outside input. However, AIs are not sentient, not being able to feel, or even possess self-awareness. Given their rarity, the theory that sentience might develop as an emergent property of multiple AI’s working together, has not been tested. WeaponryPersonal Weapons Personal weapons are generally of two types. The first are rail guns, which fire solid iron projectiles. Given the miniaturization of the rail-gun systems in these weapons, most weapons are of this type. These weapons make very little noise in their action, but their supersonic projectiles still make these weapons quite loud when fired. These weapons come in many varieties, from pistols, to high-powered rifles, and even including shotguns. The second type is directed energy weapons, in both lethal and non-lethal varieties. Lethal weapons include laser rifles, and particle beam weapons. By far more destructive are particle beam weapons, but these consume far more power. Laser rifles tend to be less lethal than projectile weapons, as many types of armor and the short time of contact between beam and target mean that although they retain effectiveness across their range, their use is usually a trade-off of accuracy and efficiency over power. As rail-gun weapons produce little to no noise, aside from the small sonic boom of the projectile, subsonic weapons, effectively silent, do exist. These weapons are also generally smaller, and less effective against any kind of armored target, but are popular as personal defense weapons. Pistols tend to be quite heavy, and considerable when conventionally powered, however, as the reduction in size in subsonic pistols makes them preferable for personal non-military use, they also carry and fire less, and smaller, ammunition. Heavy Weapons Heavy weapons come in many varieties. Generally, heavy weapons are launchers, as in grenade or missile launchers. These weapons are rare, and ammunition is even scarcer, but these are generally the most fearsome weapons, as both grenades and missiles are generally very powerful. Some larger rail-gun and energy weapons still exist, usually for vehicle mounts. These weapons have fallen out of common use. However, fast-tracking and fast-firing rail-gun cannons can be devastating when kept functional. Large energy weapons are mostly infeasible, as they require far more energy collection than can be provided in a reasonable length of time, they are considered one-shot weapons, usually used for effect. Drones are the war machines, and workers, of the pre-sovereign world. Armed with a variety of weaponry, Drones are extremely dangerous. Although heavily regulated by Sovereign, drones outside the coverage zone are still in operation. Drones operate as powerful single-units, or as packs of smaller more mobile units. Drones are semi-autonomous, although they take direction, they retain a great deal of on-board capability. Both ground, hovering, and flying drones exist, however the most common remain ground drones, used for work to maintain cities. Melee Weapons Although melee weapons tend to be underused in conventional combat, their effectiveness is actually considerable, in the right hands. Many marauders use melee weapons in an effort to bolster their ability to armor themselves against attack. Heavily armored marauders may be very difficult to take down at range with small arms fire, and at close range, may be quite capable of killing as surely and effectively with a blade as with a gun. Bladed weapons do come in two varieties. All blades, and most basic tools are made from advanced carbon fiber, which requires less factory space for drones to make, as opposed to large scale smelting. The result are low-weight, high-strength blades which almost never need sharpening. Basic bladed weapons may be a completely carbon-fiber, or have a heavier metallic core for additional weight, in either case these blades cut flesh as quickly and smoothly as scalpels. The second variety of blades are AF blades, or active-frequency blades. These blades require an integral power source, and may be attached to a power-pack on the user. Unpowered, these blades are conventionally useful. When powered, however, the AF system allows the blades to cut through almost anything. By adjusting a high-frequency pulse in the blade, automatically, the blade will essentially melt, at the atomic level, whatever it comes in contact with, creating clean, smooth, and highly precise cuts through solid stone, metal, or even heavy armor. However, the blades take a moment to adjust to the surface they are cutting, and so, are less useful in quick combat than as tools. ModificationsModifications to one's body are difficult to come by, but generally enhance personal abilities greatly. These modifications can be anywhere from minor, as an eye, or major, as a limb. Wrist terminals are considered modifications, but this one is common. Other modifications are less so, and tend to be frowned upon in city life. Modifications are of limited quantity and need to be re-used. Only a very few cities have new modifications, but even these are very rare, and produce new units slowly. Their cost is extreme, and happening across one can be a great find. Thanks to more extensive modifications, some modified persons receive extraordinary lifespan and resilience while their parts continue to operate. The active replacement of organs, and limbs has made the few wishing to attempt it social pariahs even in places where modifications are otherwise accepted. Neural Interface Modification Directly connecting the mind with computers, and other devices is an uncommon, but well understood process. These connections, attached to brain stem by surgery, can enable incredible feats of computational mastery, enhancing both the modified person, and their ability to interact with computers. However, this system requires an overload switch, to ensure that the human mind is not traumatized by connection. As an extension of Neural Interface Modification, a poorly-understood, and somewhat experimental pre-Sovereign technology has re-emerged in the form of complete Neural Adaptation. This is a form of Neural interface which radically alters the user. Requiring extensive modification and surgery to the brain, as well as the spinal cord, and arms, the NAS (Neural Adaptation System) allows the user to operate powerful magnetic field generators. These generators can act as a shield against attack, and is radically more efficient than any kind of armor in that field. Further, they can allow the user to move and manipulate metal, and function as a directed energy weapon. This modification is so dangerous, and expensive, that it is only known to have been attempted three times. In one case, it resulted in death. The second resulted in extreme madness, and the necessary destruction of the subject. The third was a success, but the subject's identity is unknown. Less radical forms of the medication do exist, requiring less complete modification, and providing a lesser degree of utility in the end result. It is known that at least two prominent warlords, and one marauder have undergone this less invasive procedure. General Knowledge Reference This section is to address some of the points of general knowledge that characters may, or may not be familiar with, depending on their areas of interest. All of these are well-known, some of them facts, some rumors, but in any case they do not require any particular specialization to be familiar with. PlacesAerlan City - Rumored to be the largest of the moving settlements. German City does not travel like the others. It is rumored to move quite widely, but never travels through the desert, instead relegating itself to the ocean. German City travels between bridge-like ports which allow it to remain away from the shore, and allow it to retreat to safety whenever it needs to. As such, it is one of the few settlements which is safe from raiders, while maintaining a large degree of internal freedom. It is unknown how German City maintains resources. Newman Republic - A large area created in a desert basin between an almost complete encircling ring of low rocky hills, the Newman Republic is the closest place to Corvus City that can't be monitored by Sovereign. The inhabitants of the Republic maintain a local democratic government, and maintain a standard of living through the use of repurposed, and rebuilt drones from elsewhere. Inside the Republic, however, infighting is common, and the freedom to use drones has left them a powerhouse in the region, defensively, as the drones cannot leave the protection of the basin (how this basin is protected is unknown) without being taken over once more by Sovereign, the Republic is safe from invasion, but projects very little force outside its borders. Vetten Carrier - A large mobile settlement, the Vetted Carrier operates in the desert. The closest thing to a battleship operating in the area around the Newman Republic and Corvus City. Its dealings are usually heavily one-sided, and it maintains both a vehicle and mounted-weapon armament which is uniquely powerful in the region. Active opponents of pirates and marauders, the officials of the Vetted Carrier are closer to a paramilitary organization, and although the Carrier has a civilian population, it is also an extremely well-armed civilian population. The Vetted Carrier is known to have a fleet of inactive combat drones at its disposal. Inactive, they are technically under Sovereign's control, however, the Carrier has been known to use them when inside the borders of a zone outside of Sovereign's control, to great effect. Market City - Not so much a city as a factory, Market City's above-ground city is mostly destroyed and overtaken by desert. The underground factory still remains, however. Market City was abandoned at some point, but a group of travelers took up residence during one of the planet's more fearsome storms. Finding the factory still intact, and the drones inactive, the travelers re-established the link with Sovereign, by appointing Justices, and started a more permanent settlement. Thanks to a variety of factors, Market City became the second most prominent example of repurposing factory technology, aside from the RIG corporation. By dividing up the factory in living, and working quarters, and limiting the drones in movement and material, they began to create a series of small shops, all based on their own production. Although the drones couldn't be reprogrammed to produce unique items, by controlling what drones had access to what materials, many store owners managed to produce goods which were of different function or design than the drones were intended to produce. Market City, has, therefore, become a hub for trade, and production. Wholly underground, only the lifts to and from the surface were maintained, and above-ground only a relatively small vehicle depot shows where Market city is. Many trade caravans leave from, and make stops at, Market City. PeopleDaniel Ryan - Industrialist and well-known arms merchant, Daniel Ryan is well-known for his absolute moralist attitude. One of the richest men in the world, Daniel Ryan's name is well known in almost all circles, and the "RIG" stamp on all the products of the Ryan Industrial Group are easy to find anywhere. Although his origins are unknown, what is known is that his wealth and success rely on his personal ownership of a drone-operated factory, and apparently, his control thereof. How Sovereign, which oversees all drone production in factories, factors into this is unknown, though his ability to modify designs speaks of a considerable wealth of technological information either of his own, or of his corporation. Jean Are - Well known pirate and marauder, Jean is a butcher and a widely-travelling criminal. Well known to attack even in cities and against enemies who can operate drones. Renowned for swiftness of attack, and retreat, never caught, and supposedly never wounded, Jean Are is someone to avoid. Several bounties are issued for her capture, in several cities, though given the difficulty of cashing in a bounty even if she were caught, she will likely die before she is put on trial. Jean flies a small high-speed hovering ship, the Nomad. The Nomad is supposedly outfitted with a pair of heavy cannons, and some manner of stealth system. Wells - A dangerous and enigmatic sniper, familiar name unknown. Wells is known as a contract-killer, and a deadly and efficient one at that. Known as a sniper thanks to his usual MO. He is known for walking great distances across the desert on foot, to avoid his transportation being seen, and firing at extreme range, with patience to match the precise nature of his shots. Considered to be within the law, or at least on the side of right, if only barely, in many places, his usual quarry are criminals, and bandits, though almost any time someone is killed at range, it is attributed to Wells, if the real killer can't be found. Wells appearance is unknown, he wears a heavy survival suit to survive alone in the desert, and never brings his transportation into cities. LawMany settlements follow varying and often simple legal systems. This section is meant to overview only the law of Sovereign. Sovereign's law is the only one which can be comprehensively studied since it never changes. Although many consider this to be a fault, in that the law is never modified to suit changing circumstances, it does afford an order and predictability to cities within which this code is used. Sovereign's legal code is predicated upon only criminal law. Civil matters like contracts, and legal complaints from citizen to citizen are handled criminally, such that only an official may charge a citizen. Only contracts made in presence of, and recorded by, a Justice are legally valid, breaking a contract that has been made this way is an offense. All others are considered void. However, in most instances, transactions proceed on trust, or with an immediate exchange of goods, and very little intervention is required. Public offers within cities, as those on bounty notices, are regularly recorded, and may be considered an open contract, binding only the offered if they fail to pay. Most crimes are covered, assault, murder, theft, kidnapping, destruction of property, fraud, etc. Under Sovereign's laws, the legal age of majority is 16, under this age, all citizens are considered to be under the care of their parents, who are held responsible for their actions, however, before this age, they cannot legally own property and do not have the freedom of movement, so their parents may commit what otherwise would be considered minor crimes, in their parenting. There are two sections to a criminal proceeding under Sovereign. First, a crime must have taken place. This requires that a reasonable burden of proof be met by the Justice asked to investigate. If the Justice cannot find proof to reasonably establish that a crime has taken place, the evaluation of guilt will not proceed. The second part, if a crime has taken place, is to establish guilt. Evidence is weighed, by Sovereign, against the possible suspects, and if the likelihood of guilt is over the threshold for doubt, then guilt is established. No judgements are made by a Justice in these matters, they are responsible only for gathering evidence, and taking statements. Punishments are of three kinds. First, are fines. These can be seizure of property or monetary. Fines may be waged against future earnings if they cannot be paid in full. Second, is exile. This punishment follows from a finding of guilt in the matter of a crime which renders the person effectively anti-social in Sovereign's judgement, crimes like rape, grievous assault, and severe destruction of property fall into this category. Exile removes the guilty party from all Sovereign controlled societies. The final punishment is death. This punishment follows from murder, and is carried out by Sovereign's drones. Certain crimes can be incented in progress by police, or defended against by the victim. These are, murder, rape, kidnapping, and grievous assault. However, using a weapon, unauthorized, within a city is a charge in itself, and can become a legal mess if reported. Surveillance within cities, for the benefit of Sovereign's ability to administer law and order usually has very broad coverage. Every doorway is monitored by cameras in both directions, and all public areas have full coverage. The role of Justices is still quite important. The only punishment for a crime above the level of minor assault, carried out by Justice, is death. However, Justices are therefore allowed far more leniency in their administration of the powers for which they cannot be punished. Corruption is common, however, since they can only, at best, take private property, even corrupt Justices are considered to be bearable. Justices serve the dual role of assisting in Sovereign's administration of justice, and maintaining local rules, usually, cities will have some specific local regulations, enforced by the power of the Justice for search and seizure. Police are granted the ability to carry out Justices' orders as long as they too, do not overstep the restrictions placed upon Justices. SovereignAlthough very little concrete information remains about what Sovereign actually is, it remains the object of much concern on the planet's surface. Thanks to its continued operation in administering law and order, as well as control of drone technology the world over, it is still known to be operational, though how its capabilities have decreased, if at all, since its commissioning, is unknown. Occassionally cults arise which worship Sovereign, though these are usually targeted by marauders, as they often accompany an unjustified faith in Sovereign to provide for their personal security. Sovereign's actions are rarely ever felt outside the cities which use its administration, however, it does, in fact, intervene under certain circumstance. What the threshold for intervention is, is unknown, however, in the few occasions where armies, even those without drones, have left the safety of protected zones, and moved to attack other settlements, the reprisal was severe. It is assumed that Sovereign still maintains a ban on warfare, though its failure to intervene in marauder and pirate attacks indicates that there is a definition by which it gauges warfare, as opposed to mere criminality. There is often an assumed connection between Sovereign and those pieces of pre-Sovereign technology which remain in operation. Airships usually fall under this category, as they occasionally change course without warning, and may suddenly take up a new flight-path which can remain unaltered for years. Claims that Sovereign might have developed consciousness as an emergent property of multiple networked AI cores is unsubstantiated, but a common theory among those who believe Sovereign to be an oppressor. Colin "Miles" Walker(32Colin stands at 6'1 with a tall but fairly lithe physique forged from a lifetime of travel. His musculature is minimal but compact, underestimating him would be a fatal mistake. He carries a sun baked tan, it is obvious that he spends very little time within the protection of the large cities. Both of his eyes are hazel but one flickers multiple colors, those who get close enough notice his left eye is a prosthetic cybernetic eye that was the result of an accident in his childhood. Bio:Colin was born to become an engineer, his father was a middle man in one of the large companies that specialized in mining drones. As a young boy he went on numerous "field" expeditions to the mining sites protected by "guards" to inspect and administer repairs. He learned to love the open desolate land instead of the sterile and steel enclosure of the cities. Set on becoming an engineer himself he joined his family on any trip until they grew wealthy enough to retire in one of the finer cities. He was in his pre-teens when a malfunction sent a piece of shrapnel in his eye, his parents spent all they could to get him a prosthetic. The device is modified to enhance his vision and future upgrades (over the years) have allowed him to have heightened vision in the dark, and an accurate distance reader. The colors of the eye flicker depending on the "mode" making it quite easy to read if one pays attention to him long enough. In his mid 20s he was well underway to be a rising engineer when his team was ambushed on a routine equipment inspection. Over those years they had foolishly fallen into a blanket of safety and began to hire less security. The land pirates ended up stealing valuable equipment and tools, killed their two guardsmen and two of his coworkers. Three of the female engineers where raped and taken, never found again and Colin himself was beaten within an inch of his life and left to die. He lived only when a rescue mission was sent out, finding him and three survivors over a week later. From that day he stopped his career as an engineer and focused on private security for caravans that leave the city. Along with his cybernetic eye he found wielding a sniper rifle a simple transition, and he quickly earned a deadly reputation as a very effective guard. Colin has taken out (Pirate) scouts from over a mile away, while moving and protecting his employers while en route to work sites. With a rifle in his hand he is not a man you want to find yourself within his cross-hairs. Personality:Colin is not the one to dream of a high rise apartment in the sky (the modern day equivalent of a white picket fence). He enjoys a stiff drink a good game of poker and a romp with a busty female (pair for or not). He takes on any job as long as he is allowed to kill any threats without second thought, his hatred for "pirates" and hijackers is well known. When on the job he wears a black bandanna across his face mostly to hide the smirk on his face when he takes someone out from a mile away." I know what you're thinking"Stats Level: 1Tech: 2Survival: 2Combat: 5Social: 1Specialty: Long Range Combat - Grants +2 to Combat with LR Weapon. Modifications:Cybernetic (prosthetic) Eye +1 Combat (CXT), -1 Social (CXT)Weapons:Colin's Rifle (Basic Long-Range Sniper Rifle) - +2 Combat (Long and Medium Ranges), +1 to Combat (Short Range) (Cap:3)Items:6 LR Rifle Rounds Basic LR Combat Kit: 12 LR Rifle Rounds (Becker Age: 28Bio: Dawn grew up in double bladed luxury, the daughter of a wealthy merchant who got the greater part of his profits from illegal trading of various (normally) unobtainable goods. She was kept blissfully unaware of that side of the business for years and spend her days training to be a paramedic and her nights 'on display' in her father's dinner parties and events. She was his favorite and most affective tool to gain new business and seal deals that were moving too slowly for his taste. Dawn was dolled up, swept into the room and sat down with one of the men who needed a little persuasion. It was never physical, merely conversation and perhaps a little flirting if she was in the mood, but her charm made a difference and got other responses than the relentless pressing forward of her father. She learned to use her looks and youth to get what she wanted, but as her father drilled that into her head her mother did her best to make a difference in other aspects of Dawn's life. It was her mother who encouraged her to study when that caught her interest as an adult, who reminded her that brains and skills were what mattered in the end, who imprinted the idea that perhaps her father's way of things wasn't always the best one even if it was the quickest. When Dawn was in her late twenties, she stumbled upon the darker side of her father's trades. She secretly witnessed him deal with a man, fight over prizes and shoot that man in the back when he turned to walk away with the goods. When the man's body hit the floor it was as if something shifted in her mind. Suddenly she understood her father's obsession to have her learn how to handle a gun. Slowly but surely she started to hate her father and after a year and a half of digging and prying she had enough in her hands to turn him over to Justice. By that time her mother had found out what was going on with her and convinced her to drop the matter. To focus on her own future instead of her father's. Dawn finished her training but when her father realized she had every intention of working as a paramedic he was furious. A work as lowly as that was nothing forhisdaughter, and she would do as he told her or never set foot in his house again. Her mother stepped between them as the fighting got serious and both father and daughter backed off. Later that night Dawn heard them fighting and when she woke up she found her mother dead. It looked like an accident, like a trip downstairs caused by unfortunate placing of a vase in the first step from the third floor, but there was no doubt in Dawn's mind as to what had happened. She grabbed what little money she had in her room and the necklace from around her mother's neck. It was a simple locket with a holographic image of the two of them when she was just a baby. Originally a gift from her father to her mother, but to Dawn it was as if taking a piece of her mother with her. She left the house and threaded the streets, ending at the address from a job posting she remembered. It was silly, but it was all she could pull from her exhausted mind at that moment. She was leaving anyway. Why not leave the city? StatsLevel: 1Tech: 1Survival: 4Combat: 1Social: 4Speciality: Medicine - Grants +2 to Survival when healing or diagnosing injury, or +2 to Tech when operating medical instruments Modifications:Wrist Terminal - +1 Tech (CXT), +1 Social (CXT)Weapons:Basic Pistol - +2 to Combat (Short Range) (Cap:10)Basic Knife (Knives) - +2 to Combat (Melee)Items:Pistol Ammunition: 20 rounds Basic Survival Kit: Med kit (basic first-aid tools), Basic Emergency compressed water supply. (27Appearance: Jen has long dark hair. She likes to add reddish highlights. Her eyes are almond brown, but she often chooses to wear exotic contacts in greens and blues. She is 5'6" tall and weights 120 to 125 pounds. Moderately fit, she enjoys running and works out kick-boxing, which keeps her fit. Bio: Jen spent a typical middle class youth in Corvus City. In school, she was identified as gifted in mathematics and channeled into computer science and engineering studies. Advanced several years ahead of her peers, she finished her formal schooling at age 19 and began an intern under the direction of Lane Rivers of Rivers Financials. She grew close to Lane and moved in with him as his personal assistant and companion. His company managed pension and retirement funds for primarily low level workers in a variety of fields. Lane put Jen in charge of computer security and coding the interface between his company and the banks handling the invested funds. On her third year with Lane and Rivers Financials, auditors discovered that the bulk of the retirement funds had been siphoned off. A small portion of those funds were discovered in the personal accounts of Jen-Jones. She was arrested and despite protesting her innocence sentenced to labor and restitution. The first years were hard, because she felt wronged. But eventually, she regained access to the computer network. A short time later, it was reported that restitution had been completed. At age 27, she is finally free of the burden of working for free, but without funds and her career destroyed. Eager to reboot her life, she looks to begin again. StatsLevel: 1Tech: 4Survival: 2Combat: 2Social: 2Speciality: Computer - Grants +2 to Tech with Computers Weapons:Basic Pistol - +2 to Combat (Short Range) (Cap: 10)Basic Knife (Knives) - +2 to Combat (Melee)Modifications:Wrist terminal - +1 Tech (CXT), +1 Social (CXT)Items:Pistol Ammunition: 20 Rounds Basic Tech Kit: Wrist Terminal Software Suite for programming, remote-link to hard link adapter cable system

[Sovereign's Sky] - Character Sheets, Game Information|rating:4.0

Knights of the Sky_ The Nivelle Offensive, April-May 1917

Knights of the Sky A WW1 Air Combat Management Sim Welcome to the Mission Results and Scoreboard thread. This is where you will view the results of your squadrons' forays into the sky, as well as view records of their exploits. In addition, any "IC" communications between players, as well as "IC" squadron updates and actions will be posted/handled here. We hope you have fun! Mission Results Spoiler Hide Reconnaissance B6 and Bridge Attack B1 The pilots of No. 19 Squadron, the Silver Angels took off and proceeded to "Point R", where they hooked up with an escort from No. 11 Squadron, and turned to proceed to their target. On arrival, they were met with flak; but the Stutters of No. 19 miraculously avoided it all while their escort circled overhead. The pair of Wilson and Richardson made the first pass on the bridge, their payload striking home on the first attempt! The hits were severe, taking the bridge out of service immediately. Porter and Montgomery dropped their bombs for good measure, and the target destroyed, fired a flare to signal their escorts and broke off for home, No. 11's Trip lanes doing the same. Now well away and without escorts, the flight was stunned as two albatross dove between them! The pilots of Pasta 9 had a recon flight coming through this area! The first missed the stutter of Wilson/Richardson, but the second struck telling blows to Porter and Montgomery's machine. The observers fired as fast as they could, but their efforts seemed in vain as the albatrosses stymied their attempts to disengage. Both machines took continued strikes from the German machines, until a wicked burst from Heinrich Greenblatt's alb sheared off a portion of Porter and Montgomery's Stutter. Completely out of control, the machine plummeted to the earth. The other albatross was forced to pull away to avoid the debris of the disintegrating Stutter, and this allowed Wilson and Richardson to dive away and open enough of a gap to make good their escape. Pasta 9 Result: Success, 50 VP (Success +30, Kills +15, Damaged Enemy +5) No. 19 Squadron Result: Costly Success, 30 VP (Success +30) Pilot Aircraft Kills Heinrich Greenblatt Albatross DIDI - 1 - - - Joshua Wilson (pilot) / Finley Richardson (gunner) Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter - 6/C. Wing, 1/R. Fus, 5/L. Wing, 6/F. Fus - Morgan Porter (pilot) / Tripp Montgomery (gunner) Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter - - *RED denotes minor wounded or damaged; RED BOLD denotes serious wounded PURPLE BOLD denotes dead or destroyed. Offensive Patrol B3 and Line Patrol B5 Pasta 13, the Lucky Devils, took off in two flights to patrol the front line along the Aisle. About halfway through their mission, the albatross flight at 9000 ft was jumped by four Newport 17's bearing the colors of Espadrille 37! Taken completely by surprise, the obsolete albatrosses stood little chance against the N17's, which slashed at them seemingly at will. Friedrich Muller showed great heroism, holding off two of the Viewports by himself to keep his comrades in one-on-ones. Meanwhile below, the flight of Roland sled by Fritz Jaeger was climbing towards the fight; but it would be a long time for them to cover so many thousand feet. Finally, Muller succumbed to the onslaught of the entente craft, and a well-placed burst from Henri Zanier damaged the lower left wing of Friedrich's albatross, tearing it away. Muller looked on in horror as the stress of air flight pushed against the remaining upper left wing. With no lower wing and no supports, it bent grotesquely upward, until it finally snapped at the wing root, sending the albatross corkscrewing out of control. At 9,000 feet, poor Muller received no quick end; forced to contemplate what was coming below for quite some time before he hit. Meanwhile, pilots Moses and Vogel had decided it was time to bug out. Moses was engaged by two of the viewports, but managed a miraculous escape after forcing he two pursuers to break off to avoid hitting each other. A distance away, Vogel managed to land some shots into the tail of his adversary, jamming the controls of Georges Zanier, and giving Vogel a brief window to escape. Still far below, Jaeger's Roland spotted the SPAD flight of Pierre Belmonte circling above the engagement, which the French had well in hand. As the albatrosses dove away, Fritz made the call for his flight to get out as well. Espadrille 37 owned the sky today. All wasn't entirely well for Espadrille 37, however. On return to their aerodrome, a nasty gust of wind tossed the SPAD of Pierre Belmonte, just as he was preparing to set down. He struggled to recover, but he was just too close to the ground, and the SPAD crashed hard onto the aerodrome field. Pierre sustained minor injuries in the crash, which could have been a lot worse! Esc. 37 Result: Success, 55 VP (Success +30, Kills +15, Damaged Enemy +10) Pasta 13 Result: Failure, 10 VP (Damaged Enemy +10) Pilot Aircraft Kills Pierre Belmonte SPAD VII - - Maurice Abraham Newport 17–1/L. Wing, 5/R. Wing - Henri Zanier Newport 17–1 Georges Zanier Newport 17–6/Tail - - - - Friedrich Muller Albatross DID - Joachim Moses Albatross DID - 5/Tail, 1/L. Wing - Erik Vogel Albatross DID - 5/C. Wing, 4/R. Wing - *RED denotes minor wounded or damaged; RED BOLD denotes serious wounded PURPLE BOLD denotes dead or destroyed. Offensive Patrol B4 and Reconnaissance B2 The Roland's and albatrosses of Pasta 16, the Winged Hussars were patrolling over newly-captured entente territory. Skirting just below the edge of the cloud cover, they spotted a flight of 4 trip lanes a few hundred feet below them, and a two-seater even further below. Aleksey Borowski gave the signal. The trip lanes were caught completely off-guard as the Roland's blasted into their midst, putting rounds into three of the four trips. They didn't even notice as the two albatrosses dove right through their midst down toward the two-seater. Jonathan Sutton, the observer on the two-seater in question (a DH4), spotted the fighters and gave his pilot a shove. Benjamin Johnson gave the DH4 some nose down to push away, but the combined efforts of the two German planes made it extremely difficult to escape. They riddled the aircraft with bullets, and Johnson's heart sunk when he noticed that the engine had lost compression. Sutton was firing away on the rear gun, but the albatross were making wide slashing attacks that made it difficult to hit them. Finally, a burst from Michael Koch's albatross struck the engine, and it burst into flames. With air rushing past the DH4, the blazing inferno was fanned like a blacksmith's forge, straight back into Johnson's face. Poor Sutton could smell the burning flesh of his pilot being roasted alive as the plane careened towards the ground. Meanwhile up above, the Trip lanes were proving to be far superior to the Roland's in a maneuver battle; but the early strikes of the Roland's hindered them greatly. The first to fall was J. Eugene, who sustained a solid burst that ran from his tail assembly to his engine, and which jammed his controls and sent oil spilling from the engine. Gustav Rutkowski had little difficulty lining up a shot after that, striking the engine again, and causing it to explode with such force that the trip lane was blown completely apart! Kernel Borowski was engaged in a deadly duel with his opponent, P. Kindred, in which they traded shots over and over again. With both of their machines severely damaged, Borowski was the more accurate shooter when it counted, putting a finishing burst into the left wing of Kindred's machine, sending it into an unrecoverable spin. At this point, the Greyhounds had had enough. Their charge had managed to take his pictures, but was shot down. There was no more they could do here; both remaining Greyhounds made it away. Pasta 16 Result: Outstanding Success, 80 VP (Success +30, Kills +45, Damaged Enemy +5) No. 11 Squadron Result: Costly Failure, 15 VP (Damaged Enemy +10, Some Film Recovered from Wreck +5) Pilot Aircraft Kills Aleksey Borowski Roland Diva - 1/L. Wing, 5/R. Wing - Gustav Rutkowski Roland Diva - 1 Kernel Borowski Roland Diva - 4/R. Fus, 5/Tail, 2/L. Wing 1 Michael Koch Albatross DIDI - 1 - - - R. Anson Sopwith Trip lane - 10/R. Fus, 3/R. Wing - J. Eugene Sopwith Trip lane - - P. Kindred Sopwith Trip lane - - Pilot LT Benjamin Johnson/Gunner SGT Jonathan Sutton DH4 - - *RED denotes minor wounded or damaged; RED BOLD denotes serious wounded PURPLE BOLD denotes dead or destroyed. Victory Points:Faction Victory Points Central Powers 140 Triple Entente 100 Squadron Rankings:Squadron Victory Points Aircraft Kills Balloon Kills Jaggdstaffel 16 "Winged Hussars" 80 3 - Espadrille 37 55 1 - Jaggdstaffel 9 "Grey Wolfe" 50 1 - No. 19 Squadron "The Silver Angels" 30 - - No. 11 Squadron RNAS "Greyhounds" 15 - - Jaggdstaffel 13 "The Lucky Devils" 10 - - Top Pilots in the Sky:Name Aircraft Kills Balloon Kills Total - - - - Heinrich Greenblatt 1–1 Henri Zanier 1–1 Gustav Rutkowski 1–1 Kernel Borowski 1–1 Michael Koch 1–1 Weekly Schedule Sunday 11pm PST: Deadline for all players to have rosters updated (including repairs, personnel changes, etc.) and reposted in Operations threads. Tuesday 11pm PST: Players have communicated, and all missions have been allocated to squadrons in whatever manner they have agreed upon. Mission Plans for each squadron are posted in Operations threads before the 11pm/PST deadline. Wednesday-Thursday: All missions are simulated. Thursday Night-Friday Morning: Mission results posted and scores updated. Missions for the following week are issued in each faction's Operations thread, so players may begin discussing them and planning allocations.IC Squadron Updates All players are encouraged to post in-character updates about the goings-on within their squadrons, the war, etc., etc. Those postings should be made in this thread. Any player posting such an update will receive 3 Requisition Points which they may spend or add to their reserve. You may of course post as often as you like, but only one posting per week shall be eligible for the Requisition Point award. Game Rules and Reference Squadron Management - Personnel - Aircraft - Combat Resolution Squadron Management Spoiler Hide The Squadron Room Running Your Squadron As Squadron Commander, you will be responsible for maintaining your roster of pilots, ensuring they have enough machines available to fly, and developing plans for how they will conduct their missions. You will also work with other squadron commanders to ensure that missions are taken on by the squadrons best-equipped for the job, and arranging for specialized support from other squadrons when needed. Together, you will defeat the enemy and soar like eagles; but first, you need to put together your first squadron. Your First Squadron Creating a new squadron is easy. New squadrons receive a budget of Requisition Points with which to fill their roster and hangar. First, you must choose your squadron's nationality. There will be 3 squadrons on each side of the conflict, which takes place in the months of April and May 1917 during the Novella Offensive. The three squadrons fighting for Germany and its allies will be fighting for The Central Powers. Those fighting for the Entente may be either British, or French. The only major difference for Entente forces is that nationality will have some effect on which craft are available for your pilots to fly. In the Aerodrome, nationalities allowed are listed for each available aircraft. Aside from this, the only differences are cosmetic. Rank structure and decorations for your pilots will vary depending upon your chosen nationality. Next, you must spend your requisition points by filling your roster and your hangar with men and machines. Pilots cost 1 requisition point each, but aircraft prices can vary depending upon the overall capabilities of the aircraft. The maximum number of pilots or observers you can have on your roster is 16. There is currently no limit to the number of aircraft you may have in your hangars. Allied Squadrons start with 75 requisition points to spend. Central Squadrons start with 65 requisition points to spend. *Note that damaged aircraft cost 1 requisition point to repair, otherwise it may go into the next mission already damaged (if no other aircraft are available); so it might be a good idea to hold some points in reserve. Three of your starting pilots will begin as Novices, but hold a higher military rank than the rest of the squadron. One of these pilots will hold the third rank of your chosen nationality, while two will hold the 2nd rank. This means that your 3rd rank pilot may begin play with two perks, and your two 2nd rank pilots may begin play with one perk each. Perks and their effects, as well as everything else pilot-related are listed under Knights of the Sky. It is important to note that you will lose pilots, and you will lose aircraft. Resist the urge to fill your squadron with only the most expensive aircraft, or too few pilots. If so, you may find yourself often outnumbered, or may even struggle to put enough machines in the air to accomplish mission objectives! Depth is important. Because losses are expected, every squadron will receive reinforcements on May 1st of the conflict. At that time, both Central and Allied squadrons will receive 30 additional requisition points to choose replacement pilots and aircraft, or catch up on repairs. There are other opportunities to gain additional requisition points throughout the conflict through IC posting and participation. These activities are heavily encouraged! Sample Squadron and Template Spoiler Hide Pasta 84 "The Smiling Vultures" Personnel: Skill Rank Name Aircraft Missions Kills Perks Decorations Novice Lieutenant Jörg Mendel (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - Flight Leader, Tactician Novice Vizefeldwebel Gustav Kalman (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - Flight Leader - Novice Vizefeldwebel Caspar Roman (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - Skilled Pilot - Novice Unteroffizier Benny Felix (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Alfred Oskar (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Adolf Rainer (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Joachim UTC (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Relates Heiner (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Justus Ego (All Two-Seaters) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Benjamin Florian Observer - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Heinz Joseph (All Two-Seaters) - - - - Novice Unteroffizier Gunnar Reinhold Observer - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Personnel in RED denote minor wounds; RED BOLD denotes serious wounds Hangar: Type Damage (Hits/Component) Modifications Albatross D III - Distinctive Paint (Lt. Mendel), Aldi's Sight Albatross D III - - Albatross D III 4/Tail 1/F. Fus - Albatross D III - - Albatross D III - - Albatross D III - - Albatross D II 1/R. Fus 6/L. Wing 3/Engine - Albatross D II - - Rumpled C IV* - High Bomb Sight Albatross C VII* - - A.E.G. C IV* 8/R. Wing 2/C. Wing 7/R. Fus - *Two-Seater Requisition Point Reserve: 0 Spoiler Hide Personnel: Skill Rank Name Aircraft Missions Kills Perks Decorations - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Personnel in RED denote minor wounds; RED BOLD denotes serious wounds Hangar: Type Damage (Hits/Component) Modifications - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -* - - -* - - *Two-Seater Requisition Point Reserve: Flying Off to Battle Each week of the battle, it is expected that each squadron flies several sorties, however most of these do not result in enemy contact. For our purposes, this is abstracted and takes place in the background. Instead, we focus on the engagements that do result in enemy contact. Each week, the Allied and Central sides will be presented with 3 important missions. Generally these missions will be in support of the Allied offensive on the Entente side, with the Central side attempting to thwart them, though Central squadrons will often be called in support of counterattacks. Missions are arranged so that both sides are attempting to meet their own objectives, and where they meet will not be predictable, but educated guesses may prove accurate. The squadrons that your flights run into may not be the ones you expect! It is up to the Squadron Commanders to decide who will accept each mission. Each of the three squadrons should accept one mission. Most squadrons will want to use their own pilots and aircraft to conduct the sorties; but when specialized assistance is needed (such as a crack dogfighting flight to provide cover for a bombing run), or an allay is too depleted to reliably conduct their mission, Squadron Commanders can "loan out" pilots and machines to help out another squadron and support one another. Loaned out pilots and machines are completely under the control of the squadron on whose behalf they are operating, and answer to that Squadron Commander for that mission. In the end, each Squadron Commander on each side must be in command of 1 of the 3 missions available to their side, regardless of all other factors. Below is an example of what the missions you receive will look like: Spoiler Hide Mission #3: Observation Balloon Attack The enemy's artillery has been giving us hell along the Aisle river. This is almost certainly due to the Observation balloons the allies have based outside the town of Berry Au BAC. The Balloons are not heavily defended yet, but heavy entente patrols have been blanketing the area in support of their push towards Agincourt. Destroy those observation balloons, and give our guys on the ground some needed relief! Planning the Mission When planning the mission, there are several factors which must be taken into account; but the following are the ones which must be included in any mission plan: -Personnel: Which pilots are flying the mission? -Machines: What craft will they be flying? -Flights: How many flights will they be split into, and which pilots will make up each flight? -Cruise Altitude: At what altitude should each flight fly along its route? -Attack Altitude: At what altitude will each flight fly during an attack? (Primarily used in ground attack missions) -Tactic: What Tactics will each flight utilize, if any? (Tactics are listed and described under Dogfight!) -Instructions in Summary: This is a rough outline of how you want the flight to conduct the mission. Mention any special (or general) instructions you want each flight to follow as it flies this mission. Be creative, and be as detailed as you like (the more, the better); the pilots will attempt to carry out your orders to the best of their ability. - (optional) If you want, you can include your own D6 rolls. It will require quite a lot though, so include at least 40 or so. This can easily be accomplished using the Roll command [roll] 40d6 [/roll] *Important Note! Each pilot and machine may only be assigned to a single mission in a given week. This is to ensure that all available personnel and machines will be available at the time the mission will be flown. Sample Mission Plans and Template Spoiler Hide Mission #3: Observation Balloon Attack Flight 1: - Gustav Kalman, Albatross D III (flight leader) - Joachim UTC, Albatross D III Cruise Altitude: 5,000ft Attack Altitude: (Balloons) + 1,200ft Tactic: Energy Fighting Flight 2: - Heinz Joseph/Gunnar Reinhold, Rumpled C IV (flight leader) - Benjamin Florian, Albatross D II Cruise Altitude: 3,500ft Attack Altitude: (Balloons) Tactic: None Summary: Flight 2 will approach the target area with Flight 1 providing cover from above and behind. Upon arrival, Flight 2 will attack the targets. Flight 1 will continue to provide cover from above, and will not engage unless enemy craft arrive and attempt to engage Flight 2. Mission #12: Line Patrol Flight 1: - Jörg Mendel, Albatross D III (flight leader) - Caspar Roman, Albatross D III - Benny Felix, Albatross D III - Adolf Rainer, Albatross D II - Relates Heiner, Albatross D II Cruise Altitude: 6,000ft Attack Altitude: N/A Tactic: Maneuver Fighting Summary: The flight will conduct the mission as normal. The only exceptions being that both Jörg and Caspar will attack in tandem the lead craft of any enemy flight encountered. The flight is to remain cautious, and will not engage enemy flights of equal or greater numbers if it can be avoided. Spoiler Hide Mission Title Flight 1: - Pilot, Aircraft - Pilot, Aircraft Cruise Altitude: - Attack Altitude: - Tactic: - Flight 2: - Pilot, Aircraft - Pilot, Aircraft Cruise Altitude: - Attack Altitude: - Tactic: - Summary: It may be wise to resist the urge to throw all of your resources into battle each week. Aircraft will be damaged and pilots will be injured; and many will be shot down entirely. Damaged aircraft are out of action for the next week while the mechanic repairs them, as are pilots who sustained minor wounds and are healing up. Throwing in everything this week may leave you with very little to throw in next week! Mission Results Once all missions have been flown, the mission results will be posted. In these you will see the final results of the mission, the participating squadrons, and a tally of victory points gained by each side. Also included is a list of all participating pilots, their aircraft, and any kills they may have scored during the mission. A brief narrative of the mission will paint a picture of the action. As mentioned earlier, Allied and Central missions will overlap; so each result will actually describe the outcome of two missions! A sample mission result showing a small-scale mission: Spoiler Hide Mission #3: Balloon Attack, and Mission #26: Bomb the Artillery The men of The Smiling Vultures approached the observation balloons outside Berry Au BAC. With their cover flying high above, they attacked confidently, and managed to flame three balloons before the rest were reeled in. Unteroffizier Florian's Albatross was damaged by flak during the attempt. Returning to their lines, the flight spotted an allied two-seater belonging to the 244th Aero bombing German artillery emplacements near Juvencourt! Vizefeldwebel Kalman and Unteroffizier UTC dove on the two-seater while the rest of the Vultures continued on. They managed to damage the two-seater of Sergeant Jack Wembley, but couldn't finish it off because Lieutenant Herb Aston swooped down on top of them in his powerful SE5! Lt. Aston shot down the albatross of UTC on the first pass. With his opponent still above him, and now outnumbered, Kalman bugged out, but not before observer Hannover put a few bullets into his machine as a parting gift from the two-seater! With nobody left to stop them, Sergeant Wembley and his observer successfully took out the Artillery emplacements. 244th Aero Result: Outstanding Success, 50 VP (Success +30, Kills +15, Damaged Enemy +5) Pasta 84 Result: Costly Success, 35 VP (Success +30, Damaged Enemy +5) Pilot Aircraft Kills Gustav Kalman Albatross DIDI - 2/F. Fus - Joachim UTC Albatross DIDI - Heinz Joseph/Gunnar Reinhold Rumpled CIV - Benjamin Florian Albatross DID - 4/L. Wing - - - - Herb Aston SE5 1 Jack Wembley/Jim Hannover Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter - 3/R. Fus, 5/R. Wing - *RED denotes minor wounded or damaged; RED BOLD denotes serious wounded PURPLE BOLD denotes dead or destroyed. After the Mission results will be announced by PM. It is important that once results are announced, you record any changes to your squadron, and post an updated roster in the IOC thread. Please note any changes to your roster, such as promotions, skill up, etc.; as well as any requisitions you have made, when applicable. Personnel Spoiler Hide The Knights of the Sky As glorious as the machines of the sky are, they are useless without the men to fly them. New pilots are requisitioned similarly to aircraft, and cost 1 requisition point; found in the Aerodrome section. Aircraft Training Pilots begin as Novices without any skills. When you first requisition a new pilot, he will be trained in the piloting of a single, small group of aircraft, chosen by the squadron commander. These groups are outlined in the Aerodrome section. If an existing pilot wishes to expand the number of craft he is trained in, he may take a week off from combat operations at the squadron commander's discretion to train in an additional aircraft group. Gunner/Observers are not trained to pilot any aircraft, but may ride in any two-seater available. If a Gunner/Observer wishes to train as a pilot, they may take a week off to train in the piloting of a single aircraft group. Gaining Experience Pilots and Observers gain experience by surviving missions and scoring kills. A Novice pilot is almost a liability in the air, and it is important to get them some experience as soon as possible. Luckily, pilots of this era were often fast learners. It is important to note that Novice Pilots cannot benefit from flight tactics such as Energy Fighting unless accompanied by a flight leader with the Flight Leader perk. Only missions where contact is made with the enemy count for purposes of gaining experience. Each time a pilot moves up in their level of experience, they can choose a perk which will grant them benefits in a variety of situations. The experience levels and thresholds to reach them are as follows: Experience Requirements Novice New Pilot, Cannot benefit from Tactics chosen for flight Driver Survived 1 Mission Jock Survived 2 Missions Experienced/Ace Survived 12 Missions or Scored 5 Kills Journeyman/Double Ace Survived 24 Missions or Scored 10 Kills Bigger/Triple Ace Survived 36 Missions or Scored 15 kills Accomplished/Quadruple Ace Survived 48 Missions or Scored 20 kills Master/Ace of Aces Survived 60 Missions or Scored 25 kills Rank and Promotion Every unit has a chain of command, and yours is no different. Every rank above the first grants the pilot or observer 1 perk. Each time a pilot advances in experience level, there is a chance they will receive a promotion as well. To determine this, a d6 is rolled. On a result of 1, the pilot has been promoted, and may choose an additional perk. New squadrons my choose two pilots or observers to begin at the 2nd rank for their faction, and one pilot or observer to begin at the 3rd rank (these characters begin with perks 1 and 2 respectively, that can be selected by the squadron commander). Starting pilot/observers of second rank are not eligible for promotion until completing their 2nd mission, while starting pilot/observers of 3rd rank are not eligible for promotion until reaching 12 missions or 5 kills. The ranks available for each nationality are as follows: Rank French British German 1 (starting) Sergeant Sergeant Unteroffizier 2 Adjutant 2nd Lieutenant Vizefeldwebel 3 Sous-Lieutenant Lieutenant Lieutenant 4 Lieutenant Captain Oberleutnant 5 Captain Major Hauptmann Pilot Perks Every time a pilot or observer is promoted in rank, or increases in experience, they get to choose a perk. The list of available perks is as follows: Perk Effects Man hunter Pilot/Observer hits are scored on double 1's and double 2's Sniper Pilot/Observer hits on double 1's, 2's, and 3's - requires Man hunter Headhunter Pilot/Observer hits on double 1's, 2's, 3's and 4's - requires Sniper Scourge Pilot/Observer hits on double 1's, 2's, 3's, 4's, and 5's - requires Headhunter Black Knight Pilot/Observer hits on all doubles - requires Scourge Three-Pointer +10% Landing chance If It Flies Additional +10% Landing chance - requires Three-Pointer Skilled Pilot +1 on opposed combat tests Expert Marksman Additional +1 on opposed combat tests - requires Skilled Pilot Hotshot Additional +1 on opposed combat tests - requires Expert Marksman Checks Six +2 to initiative order Tiger Additional +2 to initiative order, requires Checks Six Ambushed +10% chance to surprise when assigned as flight leader Ghost Additional +10% chance to surprise when assigned as flight leader - requires Ambushed Cautious +1 on opposed rolls to disengage from combat Survivor Additional +1 on opposed rolls to disengage from combat - requires Cautious Slippery -30% chance to be captured if downed Chameleon Additional -20% chance to be captured if downed - requires Slippery Tough Guy +10% chance to survive crashes Man of Iron Additional +10% chance to survive crashes, all wounds reduced one level - requires Tough Guy Flight Leader Allows Novice Pilots in the Flight Leader's flight to benefit from flight Tactics Tactician Allows Novice Pilots in all flights within the same mission to benefit from Tactics - requires Flight Leader Instructor Allows all Novice Pilots in the same squadron to benefit from Tactics - requires Tactician Tactical Genius Allows the Tactical Genius (only) to benefit from two Tactics at once - requires Instructor Bomber +10% chance to hit while bombing Sword of Damocles Additional +10% chance to hit while bombing - requires Bomber Alert -10% chance to be surprised (pilot/observer's craft only) Hawkeye Additional -10% chance to be surprised (pilot/observer's craft only) - requires Alert Hidden Attributes In addition to the perks you select, every pilot that joins your roster has a set of hidden attributes that will affect his conduct and effectiveness in the air. Some pilots may be exceptionally skilled in dogfighting, while others may be particularly disadvantaged. Some may be brash and impetuous, while others may be overly selective in their choice of engagements. Some may be natural leaders, and others may be insubordinate! The only way to truly know a pilot's tendencies is through observation of their actions over the space of several missions. Decorations Commendations and Awards serve no mechanical purpose, but are a fun way to recognize deserving pilots who perform amazing feats of bravery in the skies. If a squadron commander believes that a pilot is deserving of a decoration, he may submit a request to command; detailing the circumstances and justification for awarding the decoration. If the command agrees, a request is sent to the appropriate authorities and a roll (d6) is then made; and compared to the decoration chart below. On a successful roll, the pilot receives the award. All awards have a category, as follows: Service - Awarded for reaching specific milestones. Category A - Suitable accomplishment or act of bravery. These may be awarded to a pilot who scores and important double kill, a confirmed kill over a feared enemy ace, who drove away a larger flight of enemy aircraft, saved an experienced wingman, and so-on. Category B - Outstanding accomplishment or act of bravery. These may be awarded for scoring a triple kill, or acting as flight leader for an exceptionally successful mission where enemy losses were severe and friendly losses were minimal, and so-on. Category C - Most outstanding accomplishment or extreme act of bravery. These are awarded for only the most outstanding of events. Even enemy squadron commanders must agree that the award is suitable to the circumstance, and such a nomination must not be opposed by more than one other squadron commander. Category Award Nationality Criteria Roll Required Service Croix de Guerre French 10m or 4k, or each 2m or 1k thereafter 1 or 2 B Legion d'Conner French - 1, 2, or 3 - - - - - A Military Cross (officers) British - 1, 2, 3, or 4 A Distinguished Service Cross (officers) British - 1, 2, 3, or 4 A Distinguished Flying Cross (officers) British - 1, 2, 3, or 4 B Distinguished Service Order (officers) British MC, DSC, or DFC 1 or 2 C Victoria Cross British - 1 or 2, 1, 2, or 3 if ace with over 25k - - - - - Service Iron Cross, 2nd class German 1k, or each 1k thereafter 1, 2, 3 or 4 Service Iron Cross, 1st class German 5k and IC2, or each 1k thereafter 1 or 2 Service Knight's Cross of the Royal House Order of Hohenzollern* (officers) German 20m or 12k, or each 5m or 1k thereafter 1 or 2 Service Order Pour LE Merit "The Blue Max"* (officers) German 20k and KCotRHOH, or each 1k thereafter 1 or 2 *Will not be awarded posthumously Aircraft Spoiler Hide The Aerodrome This is where you can find all aircraft statistics and requisition costs; as well as the cost of new recruits to fly them. Starting Allied Squadrons receive 75 points with which to requisition their initial manpower and machines. Starting Central Squadrons receive just 65 points. The game will be following the Novella Offensive of 1917, with air operations running from April 1st to May 14th. Squadrons on both sides will receive 30 additional requisition points to spend on replacements and reinforcements on May 1. *Note that damaged aircraft cost 1 requisition point to repair, otherwise it may go into the next mission already damaged (if no other aircraft are available); so it might be a good idea to hold some points in reserve. If a squadron expends all of their Requisition Points, other squadrons within their faction may donate points to the needy squadron. This represents requesting equipment or scrounging unneeded parts from neighboring aerodromes. Aircraft and Pilot Requisition Costs Crew Position Cost Trained Aircraft (Pick one group) Novice Pilot 1 (Newport 17/S.P.A.D. VII) (Sopwith Pup/Sopwith Trip lane) (R.A.F. S.E.5, May 1917) (Albatross D II/Roland D IIA/Albatross D III) (All Two-Seaters) Novice Gunner/Observer 1 None Fighter Aircraft Entente Models Cost Availability // Central Models Cost Availability R.A.F. S.E.5 (available May 1917) 6 British (May 1917) // Albatross D III 4 German S.P.A.D. VII 5 French, British // Roland D IIA 3 German Sopwith Trip lane 5 British // Albatross D II 2 German Newport 17 4 French, British // - - - Sopwith Pup 3 British // - - - Two-Seater Aircraft Entente Models Cost Availability // Central Models Cost Availability De Havilland 4 9 British // Rumpled C IV 10 German Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter 7 French, British // D.F.W. C V 9 German Armstrong-Whitworth F.K.8 6 British // Albatross C VII 8 German R.A.F. R.E. 8 6 British // A.E.G. C IV 7 German - - - // Roland C II 7 German Allied Fighter Specifications Spoiler Hide Newport 17 French/British Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 1 ff Kickers Ceiling: 17,500 ft Dive: 1,350 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 100 400 5,000–9,950 100 90 350 10,000–14,950 90 80 300 15,000 and up 80 70 200 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 14 10 10 10 10 R.A.F. S.E.5 (available May 1917) British Single-Seat Fighter/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Kickers + 1 ff overawing Lewis Ceiling: 17,000 ft Dive: 1,500 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 120 90 300 5,000–9,950 110 80 200 10,000–14,950 110 70 100 15,000 and up 100 70 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 16 12 12 12 12 Sopwith Pup British Single-Seat Fighter/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Kickers Ceiling: 17,500 ft Dive: 1,500 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 110 100 250 5,000–9,950 100 90 200 10,000–14,950 90 80 150 15,000 and up 90 80 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 14 10 11 11 11 Sopwith Trip lane British Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 1 ff Kickers Ceiling: 20,500 ft Dive: 1,450 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 110 100 350 5,000–9,950 100 90 300 10,000–14,950 100 80 200 15,000 and up 90 70 150 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 15 10 11 11 11 S.P.A.D. VII French/British Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 1 ff Kickers Ceiling: 18,000 ft Dive: 1,550 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 120 90 300 5,000–9,950 110 80 250 10,000–14,950 110 70 200 15,000 and up 100 60 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 16 12 12 12 12 Allied Two-Seater Specifications Spoiler Hide Armstrong-Whitworth F.K.8 British Two-Seat Recon/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Kickers + 1 fly Lewis Ceiling: 13,000 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 80 150 5,000–9,950 90 70 100 10,000–14,950 90 60 50 15,000 and up - - - Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 11 11 11 11 De Mainland 4 British Two-Seat Recon/Bomber Armament: 1 ff Kickers + 1 fly Lewis Ceiling: 16,000 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 120 80 250 5,000–9,950 110 80 200 10,000–14,950 100 70 100 15,000 and up 90 60 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 16 11 12 12 12 R.A.F. R.E. 8 British Two-Seat Recon/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Kickers + 1 fly Lewis Ceiling: 13,500 ft Dive: 1,200 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 80 200 5,000–9,950 90 70 100 10,000–14,950 80 60 50 15,000 and up - - - Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 14 10 10 10 10 Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter French/British Two-Seat Recon/Bomber/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Kickers + 1 fly Lewis Ceiling: 15,500 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 70 250 5,000–9,950 90 70 150 10,000–14,950 80 60 100 15,000 and up 70 60 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 15 10 10 10 10 Central Powers Fighter Specifications Spoiler Hide Albatross D II German Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 2 ff Spandau Ceiling: 17,000 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 70 250 5,000–9,950 90 70 150 10,000–14,950 80 60 100 15,000 and up 80 60 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 10 11 11 11 Albatross D III German Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 2 ff Spandau Ceiling: 18,000 ft Dive: 1,350 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 80 300 5,000–9,950 90 70 250 10,000–14,950 90 60 150 15,000 and up 80 60 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 10 11 11 11 Roland D IIA German Single-Seat Fighter Armament: 2 ff Spandau Ceiling: 16,400 ft Dive: 1,500 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 110 70 250 5,000–9,950 100 70 200 10,000–14,950 90 60 150 15,000 and up 80 60 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 10 11 11 11 Central Powers Two-Seater Specifications Spoiler Hide A.E.G. C IV German Two-Seat Recon/Ground Attack Armament: 1 ff Spandau + 1 fly Parabellum Ceiling: 16,400 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 70 200 5,000–9,950 90 70 150 10,000–14,950 80 60 100 15,000 and up 70 60 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 11 11 11 11 Albatross C VII German Two-Seat Recon Armament: 1 ff Spandau + 1 fly Parabellum Ceiling: 16,400 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 70 200 5,000–9,950 90 70 150 10,000–14,950 90 60 100 15,000 and up 80 60 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 10 15 10 11 11 11 D.F.W. C V German Two-Seat Recon Armament: 1 ff Spandau + 1 fly Parabellum Ceiling: 21,000 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 80 250 5,000–9,950 100 70 200 10,000–14,950 90 70 150 15,000 and up 80 60 100 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 11 11 11 11 Roland C II German Two-Seat Recon Armament: 1 ff Spandau + 1 fly Parabellum Ceiling: 16,500 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 100 80 150 5,000–9,950 90 70 100 10,000–14,950 90 70 100 15,000 and up 80 60 50 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 16 11 11 11 11 Rumpled C IV German Two-Seat Recon Armament: 1 ff Spandau + 1 fly Parabellum Ceiling: 21,000 ft Dive: 1,400 ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 110 80 300 5,000–9,950 100 70 250 10,000–14,950 100 70 200 15,000 and up 90 60 150 Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing 6 11 15 11 11 11 11 Plane Template Spoiler Hide Model Nationality/Designation Armament: Guns Ceiling: - ft Dive: - ft Performance: Altitude Top Speed Turn Speed Climb To 4,950 - - - 5,000–9,950 - - - 10,000–14,950 - - - 15,000 and up - - - Durability: Engine Fuselage F Fuselage R Tail L Wing C Wing R Wing - - - - - - - Field Modifications Some pilots or squadrons may wish to make field modifications to their fighters to increase their capabilities in one or more areas. These modifications cost requisition points, representing the hard work and man-hours which go into modifying the aircraft and installing the equipment. Being non-standard additions to the aircraft, they can be a bit expensive. Modifications apply only to the aircraft on which they are installed. If the aircraft is destroyed, so too are all of its modifications. Spoiler Hide Field Modifications Modification Description Effect Requisition Cost Overawing Machine Gun An additional forward-facing machine gun mounted over the wing. This provides better firepower at the cost of increased weight and drag (max 1 per aircraft) +1 ff machine gun, -10 speed and turn, -50 climb 2 Additional Observer Gun An additional machine gun mounted on the observer's flexible mount. This provides better firepower for the observer, at the cost of increased weight and drag (max 1 per aircraft) +1 fly mount machine gun, -10 speed and turn, -50 climb 2 Aldi's Gun Sight A pollinator gun sight aligned with the aircraft's main guns. This allows the pilot to make difficult shots at greater distances +1 to first opposed combat test when initiating combat as aggressor 1 High-Altitude Bomb Sight A specialized sight installed below the observer to aid in high-level bombing +10% chance to hit during high-level bomb attacks. A two-seater without high level bombing capability which installs this modification gains the ability to do so at a 10% chance to hit (as opposed to the normal 15%) 1 Distinctive Paint One of the squadron's pilots has been granted a personal aircraft. His distinctive paint job singles him out in some way Allies and enemies alike can spot this pilot from a distance, and effects will vary depending upon his reputation. It can also help to *build* that reputation 1 Combat Resolution Spoiler Hide Dogfight! Air Combat Resolution Initiative Combat takes place in rounds. Each round, two formations of aircraft act; Order is determined by rolling 2d6, with the highest initiative score acting first. The only exception to this initiative rule is that aircraft with higher altitude act prior to those with lower altitude (according to their own initiative). Generally once an aircraft with higher altitude has acted, they are then considered to be at the same altitude as the enemy formation; The only exception to this rule is aircraft who are utilizing the Energy Fighting tactic, who may be able to maintain their altitude advantage. The Initiative score rolled is retained through the entire combat. Surprise A formation flying at a higher altitude than their opponents has a chance to surprise an enemy formation. The base chance to surprise the enemy formation is 50% for a formation of 1 aircraft flying at a higher altitude than the enemy. Each addition craft in the formation reduces the chance to surprise by 5%. Skilled pilots or aces can potentially modify this percentage further. Surprise grants a bonus to the ambushing side's opposed combat rolls, but is only applicable in the first round of combat in which the two sides engage. Depending on the altitude difference between the two sides, and the dive speed of the attackers, it may take more than one round for the ambushing formation to reach their targets. In this case, the formation must roll again each round to retain the element of surprise. If successful, all bonuses will still apply when the two sides make contact. For this reason, flights aiming to ambush the enemy should be careful not to fly *too* far above the altitude at which they expect to find the enemy. Basic Combat Resolution When an aircraft engages another, attacker and target each roll 1d6, adding all applicable modifiers in an opposed test. The winner of this contest then rolls 1d6 per forward-firing gun on their aircraft to determine how many hits they score. The location for these hits are rolled randomly as follows: Hit Location Roll (d6) Hit Location 1 Center Wing* 2 Left Wing 3 Right Wing 4 Tail 5 Rear Fuselage** 6 Forward Fuselage*** * Possible Pilot Hit - roll 2d6, on double 1's pilot is hit **Possible Observer Hit (if applicable) - roll 2d6, on double 1's observer is hit ***Possible Pilot/Engine Hit - roll 2d6, on double 1's pilot is hit, on an 8 or higher the engine is hit Once a component takes hits equal to half (round up) of its total durability, it sustains critical damage, which can have a number of different effects (potentially destruction). Note that Center Wing and Rear Fuselage sections are exempt from critical hits; as there aren't many critical components to damage. Once it has taken hits equal to its total durability, it is destroyed, and the aircraft is shot down. Critical Hit Tables (2d6) Spoiler Hide Engine Roll (2d6) Effect 2 Engine Explodes-aircraft shot down/destroyed 3 Engine Running, on fire - pilot must land immediately 4 Fuel Line Hit - engine quits, must glide to landing 5 Intake Manifold Hit - cut top and turn speed by 20, and climb to 100' maximum 6 Carburetor Hit - no effect 7 Carburetor Hit - cut top and turn speed by 10, and climb by 50 8 Intake Manifold Hit - cut top and turn speed by 10, and climb by 50 9 Mechanism Hit - cut top speed to equal turn speed, and cut climb by 50 10 Oil Leak - roll 1d6, engine quits after 1,2,3, or 4 turns, on 5-6 no effect 11 Prop Hit - engine unbalanced, must cut power and glide to landing 12 Compression Loss - cut top speed to equal turn speed, and cut climb by 100. If above 9,999ft, cut speed additional 10, and climb additional 50 Forward Fuselage Roll (2d6) Effect 2 Controls Destroyed - shot down out of control 3 Ammo Belt Cut - roll 1d6, result is a number of bursts remaining for affected gun (roll 1d2 to determine gun) 4 Landing Gear Damaged - -20% landing chance 5 Aileron Cables Hit - cut turn speed by 30 6 Guns Hit - roll 1d6, 1-3 one gun out, 4-6 both guns out 7 Fuel Tank Hit - danger of fire or explosion, roll 1d6, 1 - engine explodes, 2-3 - running but on fire, 4-6 - fuel leak (1d6 turns before shut down, firing guns with fuel leak 30% likely to cause explosion) 8 Rudder Cables Hit - cut turn speed by 20 9 Elevator Cables Hit - no climbing, dive speed limited to 1000 10 Fuel Tank Hit - see 7 11 Tire Hit and Deflated - -10% landing chance 12 Controls Jammed - No maneuvers possible, roll 1d6 per turn, on 1-3 unnamed Tail Roll (2d6) Effect 2 Tail Skid Damaged - -10% landing chance 3 Controls Jammed - see table above 4 Controls Jammed - see table above 5 Stabilizer Damaged - cut dive by 100 6 Rudder Hit - see table above 7 Elevator Hit - see table above 8 Stabilizer Damaged - cut dive by 200 9 Tail Structure Damaged - cut climb by 100, dive by 300, and turn speed by 10, add one point to damage taken 10 Rudder Hit - cut turn speed by 10 11 Elevator Hit - cut climb by 100, and dive by 200 12 Tail Skid Structure Damage - same as 2 Wing (Right or Left) Roll (2d6) Effect 2 Aileron Cables Hit - same as Forward Fuselage 5 3 Aileron Jammed - cut turn speed by 30, roll 1d6 each turn, on 1-3 unnamed 4 Aileron Hit - cut turn speed by 10 5 Strut Hit - cut climb by 100 and dive by 600, turn speed by 10, add two points to damage taken 6 Wing Structure Damaged - cut dive by 100 7 Aileron Hit - same as 4 8 Aileron Hit - cut turn speed by 20 9 Wing Structure Damaged - cut dive by 200 10 Strut Hit - cut climb by 50 and dive by 400, add one point to damage taken 11 Wing Spar Hit - cut dive by 200, add two points to damage taken 12 Aileron Hit - same as 4 Pilot/Observer Hits Roll (d6) Effect 1-2 Minor Injury* 3-4 Serious Injury** 5-6 Killed *This character will be out of action for 1 week (if they survive the mission!) **The character must immediately disengage and attempt to land. If they survive, they will be out of action for 4 weeks Combat Modifiers There are a number of circumstances which can modify an aircraft's chance to win an opposed combat roll. These are listed here: Circumstance Modifier Surprise +2 to ambushing formation Altitude Greater than Opponent +1 Tactic: Maneuver +1 if turn speed is greater than opponent Tactic: Maneuver +1 if climb rate is greater than opponent Tactic: Energy +1 if top speed is greater than opponent Numerical Advantage +1 per ally in excess of enemy (max +2, no shoulder-shooting!) Pilot Skill/Attributes variable Gunner/Observers Two-seaters with flexible firing mounts have an observer who will fire on enemy aircraft. Observers act on the same turn as their aircraft and will fire on enemy aircraft with whom the two-seater is engaged, taking in account all normal modifiers. They roll a d6 to attack, comparing the total to the target's opposed roll with the two-seater. Gunner/observers take a -1 penalty to this roll to reflect the difficulty of firing from a moving and unstable platform whose movement they cannot control. The Observer Gunnery tactic can eliminate this penalty. Bugging Out An aircraft that has not been engaged in its two previous turns may elect to bug out on it's turn with no penalty. However, things are a bit more tricky for craft already engaged in a dogfight. On its turn an engaged aircraft may attempt to use its action to disengage. All engaged aircraft make opposed rolls, taking into account all relevant modifiers, with the escaping aircraft receiving a +2 on the attempt. If the escaping aircraft possesses a higher dive rating than its opponent, they receive an additional +1 on the opposed test for every 100ft of difference in rating (minimum +1). If the escaping aircraft wins the opposed test, it has successfully disengaged. In the case of craft engaged by multiple opponents; the craft escapes any opponents who fail the opposed test, but any who succeeded remain on their tail and roll to determine hits scored on the fleeing craft. On the next opposed test between the two, the escapee must attempt to disengage again, with success meaning they have finally extracted themselves from the combat. Sometimes the best thing to do is to disengage. Pilots don't often willingly sign up for suicide missions, and if things aren't looking their way, they'll bug out to fight another day. A formation will attempt to disengage if it is reduced to at least 50% of its original strength, or if they are outnumbered 3 to 1. These thresholds may be adjusted by the squadron commander prior to the mission if desired; but be wary not to throw away valuable war material and manpower in hopeless battles! In addition to the base threshold, individual pilots may choose to disengage if they are severely wounded, or their machine has take damage which prevents them from continuing the fight. Squadron commanders may elect to direct their pilots to show chivalry in such situations, and allow stricken opponents to escape. Others may choose to have their pilots ruthlessly go for the kill. While pragmatic, such behavior may be met in kind! Numerical Advantage Multiple aircraft attacking the same aircraft receive a bonus to their opposed rolls (outline above). The recipient of such an attack may still win the roll. If this is the case, they will only get the opportunity to fire on one of their attackers. On a pilot's turn, he can attack whoever he likes (happens once per round); if the pilot is attacked by somebody else, he can return fire once per round as well. So if he is attacked by two enemy craft, and somehow managed to win the opposed check against both, he may only return fire on the first one. So a pilot can only fire on the enemy a max of twice per turn, once on offense, once on defense. Ground Attack Some missions will require the destruction of ground-based targets. Aircraft can make ground attacks by bombing them. When making ground attacks, aircraft may face resistance from ground-based machine gun fire, AAA or infantry small arms. Only a few aircraft are capable of true bombing. When in the process of actively bombing a target, the gunner/observer is unable to operate any flexible-mount weaponry, as he must focus on targeting the bombs. The choice between high-level bombing, or tactical bombing will be made by the squadron commander during mission planning. High-Level Bombing This method of bombing was wildly inaccurate, with aircraft dropping their bombs from around 10,000 feet in altitude. Strategic bombers carry a very heavy bomb load, dropping them all in one go; scattering the bombs over a wide area in an effort to hit the target. Despite the volume of bombs, each aircraft bombing a target in this way has only a 15% chance of destroying their target. While encumbered with this bomb load, strategic bombers have the following reductions in performance: -20 top speed, -10 turn speed (60 minimum), -50 climb, and -1000 ceiling Available Aircraft: Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter, De Mainland 4 Tactical Bombing This method of bombing is more accurate, but places the aircraft and its crew at greater risk. Some craft may hold four bombs mounted on racks beneath the lower wing, while others are only capable of carrying a single device. Tactical bombers carrying four bombs are limited to 5,000 ft in altitude while laden and have their top and turn speeds reduced by 10, and their climb reduced by 100. All tactical bombers must descend to just 400 feet above their target to drop their bombs. When used in this way, each bomb dropped has a 50% chance of hitting its target. Available Aircraft (Multiple Drop): Sopwith 1 1/2 Stutter, Armstrong-Whitworth FK8, RE8, Sopwith Pup, SE5 Available Aircraft (Single Drop): AEG C IV Tactics Before sending a formation out on a mission, the squadron commander will give their flight some basic instruction regarding what to do if they run into the enemy. This is represented by the formation's selected Tactic. Tactic: Energy Fighting This represents using speed and altitude to keep your aircraft in a higher energy state than the opponent. It is characterized by high circling, dives, and high yo-yo's to bounce down on top of an opponent before zooming back up to altitude while the opponent struggles to return fire without stalling. Energy Fighters with a higher top speed than their opponent receive a +1 to their opposed combat rolls in addition to any bonus granted by higher altitude. An Energy Fighter with a higher altitude than its target who is successful in its attack does not lose its altitude bonus after the attack. Tactic: Maneuver Fighting This represents the classic fur balls that most people picture when imagining a dogfight. Here scissor-turns, loops, and barrel rolls are king. Pilots in aircraft with greater turning speed and climb rates will be at a great advantage here. Maneuver Fighters who possess a better climb rate or turn speed than their opponent receive a +1 to their opposed combat rolls. Maneuver fighters possessing better climb and turn receive a +2. Tactic: Discretion Sometimes it is more important to ensure everybody makes it back to the aerodrome in (close to) one piece. Discretionary fighters are cautious and conservative and if possessing a greater dive speed than their opponent, receive +1 on attempts to disengage; in addition to all other modifiers. Tactic: Observer Gunnery Two-seaters can be instructed to keep their maneuvers smooth to provide a better platform for the observer to fire a flexible-mount weapon. Formations of Observer Gunners can take a -1 on opposed combat rolls in order to eliminate their gunner's penalty to hit. Tactic: Ground Attack Aircraft using this tactic receive a +10% bonus to all attempts to drop bombs on ground targets, but take a -1 penalty on all opposed combat rolls. Gunner/Observers do not take this penalty, but as normal cannot engage in gunnery while in the process of bombing a target. Landing At the end of the mission, everybody needs to be able to put the plane back on the ground, but the technology isn't perfect, and there is always a chance that something goes wrong. The base chance to set down an aircraft is 70%, modified by the following: Circumstance Modifier Landing at Aerodrome +25% Forced Landing (fields, no-man's land, etc.) -10% Minor Wound -10% Serious Wound -20% Aircraft Damaged variable Pilot Skill/Attributes variable Crashes If shot down, a pilot has a 5% chance of surviving the crash with serious injuries. If the crash took place during a landing or forced landing, the pilot's chance is 40% (Rolls up 15%- unhurt, 25%- minor wound, 40%- serious wound). Pilots who survive being shot down or forced to land in enemy territory and are not seriously wounded, have a 65% chance of being captured by the enemy. Pilots downed in no-man's land have a 30% chance of being captured. Captured pilots sit out the remainder of the war in POW camps. RECOMMENDATION FOR DECORATIONNAME:Aleksey KozłowskiRANK:LeutnantUNIT:Jaggdstaffel 16DECORATION:Iron Cross, 2nd ClassDESCRIPTION:On 1 April 1917, while serving as a Flight Leader for Jaggdstaffel 16 "Winged Hussars", Lieutenant Borowski detected a De Mainland IV escorted by four Sopwith Trip lanes conducting reconnaissance of recently vacated German positions in the vicinity of Ham. Maneuvering his flight into an advantageous position, Borowski ordered his flight of three to dive on the enemy fighters, allowing the second flight of his squadron to engage the enemy reconnaissance craft without interference. Catching the enemy unawares, Lieutenant Borowski's flight was able to engage the enemy long enough for the second flight to destroy the hostile two-seater while his wing mates destroyed two enemy fighters, despite flying inferior aircraft. By his effective planning, Lieutenant Borowski facilitated the destruction of three Entente aircraft and denial of valuable intelligence to the enemy. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, Jaggdstaffel 16 "Winged Hussars" and the German Army. Spoiler Hide IOC: Okay, it's not technically appropriate via the listing, but I'd rather have the Germans only have performance medals rather than service ones, so I'm going to pretend that they work like that until Crow shuts me down. Originally Posted by RagingKrikkit RECOMMENDATION FOR DECORATION NAME: Aleksey Borowski RANK: Lieutenant UNIT: Jaggdstaffel 16 DECORATION: Iron Cross, 2nd Class DESCRIPTION: On 1 April 1917, while serving as a Flight Leader for Jaggdstaffel 16 "Winged Hussars", Lieutenant Borowski detected a De Mainland IV escorted by four Sopwith Trip lanes conducting reconnaissance of recently vacated German positions in the vicinity of Ham. Maneuvering his flight into an advantageous position, Borowski ordered his flight of three to dive on the enemy fighters, allowing the second flight of his squadron to engage the enemy reconnaissance craft without interference. Catching the enemy unawares, Lieutenant Borowski's flight was able to engage the enemy long enough for the second flight to destroy the hostile two-seater while his wing mates destroyed two enemy fighters, despite flying inferior aircraft. By his effective planning, Lieutenant Borowski facilitated the destruction of three Entente aircraft and denial of valuable intelligence to the enemy. His actions reflect great credit upon himself, Jaggdstaffel 16 "Winged Hussars" and the German Army. Spoiler Hide IOC: Okay, it's not technically appropriate via the listing, but I'd rather have the Germans only have performance medals rather than service ones, so I'm going to pretend that they work like that until Crow shuts me down. Your account of the events works. Though the Germans essentially awarded them as service medals to the air service, you have to remember; at the time, shooting down an enemy aircraft was considered to be a significant feat of arms. They were still awarded as performance medals in the western sense; just more of a consistent performance over time matter, than a one-off thing. Also, there were well over 4 million IC2's awarded in WWI, so.... IOC: Well, I'll count that as being shut down, then. Live and learn. Maybe I'll go back at some point and recon that into a letter of commendation. I've always considered myself as having an above average amount of knowledge of the First World War (which isn't saying much in a world where Battlefield 1 almost got the no-go because EA was too afraid nobody would know what the hell it was about), but I get the feeling I'm going to walk out of this game with a lot more. Originally Posted by RagingKrikkit IOC: Well, I'll count that as being shut down, then. Live and learn. Maybe I'll go back at some point and recon that into a letter of commendation. I've always considered myself as having an above average amount of knowledge of the First World War (which isn't saying much in a world where Battlefield 1 almost got the no-go because EA was too afraid nobody would know what the hell it was about), but I get the feeling I'm going to walk out of this game with a lot more. Not shut down at all. I loved the commendation letter! I just don't want you to feel constrained. ’D RECOMMENDATION FOR DECORATIONNAME:Heinrich RosenblattRANK:UnteroffizerUNIT:Pasta 9DECORATION:Iron Cross, Second ClassDESCRIPTION:Interoffice Heinrich Greenblatt is being recommended for the Iron Cross (Second Class), for being the first pilot of Pasta 9 to confirm an enemy kill. Greenblatt and his wingman engaged a pair of Stutters and managed to successfully down one of the two hostile aircraft whilst running escort for a reconnaissance mission over enemy territory. Greenblatt and his wingman were not only able to down one of the two Stutters, killing the pilots, but also managed to deal significant damage (reportedly) to the other Stutter, whilst avoiding taking any damage to their own craft. As such, we recommend Interoffice Greenblatt for this medal due to his achievement of damage against his foes. Spoiler: Other Messages from Pasta 9 Hide MESSAGE TO PASTA THIRTEEN STOP PASTA NINE SENDS REGARDS ON THE LOSS OF YOUR PILOT STOP HIS SACRIFICE IS TO BE Honored BY ALL HERE STOP GLORY TO CENTRAL STOP In Loan, life went on as it always had. Far enough from the front that the shells did not reach it, their only reminders of the war were the German police force that had supplemented the local constables, the occasional column of boys headed to the front, and the rarer line of battered men headed away. But to the citizens of Loan, the war mattered little. One day it would be over, the Germans would go home, and life would go on as it always had. But tonight, in a tavern on the edge of town, there was a raucous set of tables where the men of the Winged Hussars sat, raising drinks far after they had all forgotten how many times they had toasted their first three killers. Shouts of merriment filled the room again and again as they recounted the events of that morning, the tale growing grander with each retelling. From behind the counter, the bartender stood polishing glasses for the inevitable next round. He understood little of their revelry, nor did it matter to him. Life at the front was often short, and before long these men would be dead, their money locked away safely in his coffers, and life in Loan would go on as it always had. 1 April 1917 The last remaining personnel of No. 14 Squadron have departed Noon now, returning to England to rebuild after the losses they suffered. The new boys in to replace them are No. 11 Squadron RNAS, the Greyhounds, freshly equipped with brand-new Tripe hounds. They've already got into it with Jerry, unfortunately, and two pilots from 'A' Flight were lost before they even finished unpacking their gear. I'm glad I'm not a pilot myself. It's hard enough watching these bright, eager faces launch themselves skyward day after day, their numbers and enthusiasm dwindling perceptibly as weeks stretch into months without respite, and losses begin to mount. Eventually these boys will go the same way No. 14 went, and No. 23 before them, and No. 7 before that. And eventually another new squadron will arrive at the line, bright and eager, and will gradually be worn down just like the rest, and then another, and then another... The names change, the faces change, and every so often the places move a few miles this way or that, but those are mere details. The Greyhound boys are already showing signs of strain, badly enough that Lieutenant Anson - who barely avoided being shot down himself - decided he needed to take a decisive step to boost morale. Thus, Sergeant Stanley is now Second Lieutenant Stanley, in recognition of the superior flying skills he's demonstrated. Only time will tell if this has actually improved the men's spirits, but the newly-minted second lieutenant is said to have stood his squadron-mates to quite a good meal and a round of drinks at the nameless little country inn just outside the village here, and certainly everyone staggered back to the aerodrome quite late that night. Perhaps a little celebration of one of their own will help. I don't know. - Diary of Major John Rebel, Aerodrome Commander, Noon, France Dearest Emily, I've arrived in Eternal and have begun to settle in. The previous commander had run a tight operation. A place for everything, and everything in its place; but the crews' introduction to the western front hadn't gone well. Six men went up last week, and only two came back. Ultimately it was his nerves. That first week's losses were just too much and he couldn't handle it. So now I'm here. I've had to beg command to send us a new DH4. Our RE8's are good enough at low altitude, but the Stutters that make up the rest of our strength are all-rounders which don't particularly shine in any one area. The DH4 is fast and gives us some options. I had requested a detachment of scout pilots, but Command responded that it would create "logistical difficulties". They never give us everything we need, and so we make due with whatever we can put together. In my first days here, I made a wondrous discovery. It seems one of our number is a fantastic singer. His presence soothes the men greatly, and I should be careful to protect this man; but like all young men he is eager for adventure and wants to fly more than anything! I fear what it would do the men's morale if something were to happen to him. I have been trying to assign him only to low risk assignments. With that said, there is still much to do here, and I find myself very busy. France is not so bad where we are, and certainly not so bad as the stories we hear from the front. I doubt many of our boys in the trenches eat so well as we do; nor is there much champagne to be had on the front. I am grateful for our comparatively posh living conditions, but the deadly combat we face is no less bloody than that which takes place in the trenches. Furthermore, I find myself missing you and our darling child more every day. The brass insist that our coming offensive will be the thunderbolt which wins the war. I pray that they are right. Sincerely, Your Charles

Knights of the Sky_ The Nivelle Offensive, April-May 1917

Spring Break Road Trip RP - OOC

(( plotting and general chatter can go here! Characters Name:Sabrina FAO (Born Fujiko FAO)Age:18Sexual Orientation: Lesbian Appearance:Sabrina is slightly shorter than average, standing at around 5'3". Her body build is quite lithe. The exception to this is her chest which seems out of place due to her short stature, thin build, and ethnic stereotype. She has long, dark brown hair which she arranges in a variety of ways depending on her mood. Her parents were both Japanese, and she takes after her mother. She has sparkling, white teeth and a cute smile that are a result of her future professional dreams. She loves wearing clothes that reveal her curves, and she sometimes wears glasses. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(is extremely effervescent and hyper. She has never truly hated anybody, and she thinks holding grudges or having rivals are silly. Her personality matches her appearance and size; she is bubbly, loves attention, and flirtatious. Sabrina adores women, no matter their age or appearance, and she has a history of bedding a multitude of women. One of her darkest secrets is her diary in which she records every sexual experience she has ever had. She does this to not forget each smiling face of the girls she had slept with. Her view of sex as merely a means of physical pleasure is one of the reasons why she leads such a promiscuous life. She believes that the word slut is a compliment, since it means that she is connected and enjoying herself with many other human beings. She loves complimenting girls, talking in general, and speaking her mind. History:Sabrina and her mother moved to the United States when she was eight. Her parents had just been through a divorce that sparked from her father's adultery. Sabrina adapted well to her new surroundings, and she didn't have a problem fitting in. She had her name legally changed to Sabrina (which was her favorite choice). Her mother came out and ended up marrying another woman who served as Sabrina's step-mother. Sabrina grew up as a single-child, and she was very close to both of her mothers. When she grew into her teens, she found herself noticing the subtle, beautiful features of the surrounding girls. She came out to her parents and friends, and they supported her fully. Her parents were both irreligious, so Sabrina grew up with the notion that sex wasn't a bad thing. Her parents let her have girls over, knowing fully well that Sabrina's intentions were to sleep with them. They made a big impact on her future. Although she often didn't seem smart, Sabrina was very intelligent. She skipped two grades and enrolled in university at the age of sixteen. Her parents were both involved in the field of business. Since Sabrina was also their only child, she was very well off. It was Sabrina's dream to be involved in some form of dentistry, but she also wanted to run her own business on top of things. She hit the books and was making her way through two majors by the age of eighteen. Hobbies: Music Sabrina loves a variety of genres from pop to rock. Her favorite band of all time is Fall Out Boy. She can sing and play the piano and guitar. Video Games and Anime Contrary to her popularity, she still enjoys nerdy hobbies. She has a slight interest in cosplaying, but she isn't sure how to get into it. WomenShe loves all girls, and even has a strange interest in ugly and chubby ones. She loves cocky girls and blondes in particular. She loves asses. StudiesShe loves dentistry, chemistry, and biology. She loves business, economics, and political science. She speaks Japanese, English, French, Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese. Played by:Mismanage:Emma Wilson Age:18Sexual Orientation:Bisexual but still in denial about it Appearance:Emma is 5'4 and slim with blonde hair and blue eyes. She tends to dress smartly but with a lot of bright colors. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(( (( can seem a little serious and reserved at times but is generally easy to get along with. Being an exchange student from England she finds College life in America a little strange but is willing to adapt gosh darn it! She's a little conflicted in regard to her attraction to other women due to her strict upbringing. History:Emma was born to two upper class parents and spent most of her childhood at a strict catholic boarding school. When she told her parents she wanted to study abroad they were a little concerned, but she convinced them that she was responsible enough to look after herself. She Majors in Computer Sciences Hobbies:Video games, Music, reading science fiction and fantasy and cosplay. Played by:ElvenKittenName- Ashley Nichole Age- 20Sexual Orientation- Lesbian; Polyamorous Appearance- 5’2 and 115lbs. Tongue pierced, Japanese symbol tattoo on her lower back meaning ‘Pride’. She has long black hair with dark brown eyes. She usually dresses pretty casual, jeans and a tank top nothing fancy really. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(Father was American, Mother was Japanese she lost both parents in a car accident when she was 13. Her Aunt Melinda took her in and raised her. Ashley has always been very open with her and Melinda is very supportive and knows about her sexuality. Sadly Ashley never got the chance to tell her parents. Personality- Pretty laid back once you get to know her. Don’t let her appearance fool you though, she is very shy at first but once she becomes comfortable around someone she’s a talker! She’s usually seen with earbuds in her ears listening to one of her favorite bands or artists. She’s a huge music junkie, it’s what helped her cope with her parents' death. As of right now she’s attends an art school and is working on her degree in photography. In her spare time she listens to music, does freelance photography, draws and sometimes paints. Even with everything she does for fun and being in school she still has her own little habits. But of course to her, they’re the only thing to loosen her up a lot of times. Her drug of choice is pot, and she usually drinks when she’s partying with others but when she’s drunk she’s very touchy-feely. Usually she’s pretty calm and mellow when she’s high. Favorite Music- Tate, the Veronica's, Adele, God DES and She, The Clips, Pink, Skrillex Played by: Suriname: Jessica Kincaid Age: 18Sexual Orientation: Bi-curious, preferring women and unsure about men. Appearance: 'One of the guys' ironically, prefers dark, tomboy clothing; sleeveless vests, cargo pants, jeans, bandannas, sneakers and sometimes leather... but rarely. 5'7 with ever-changing hair colors, and some 'hidden' piercings. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(Can quickly alternate between sleepy, mopey and ecstatic, leading some to question her mental health. In truth though, Jessica is just very in touch with her emotions, she may hold them back at times, but they are always present and in force. Enjoys pranks from both ends, enjoys daring friends to do stupid, often pointless things for her own amusement. Sometimes quick to anger, but also quick to make up; generally likes to keep drama at a distance. History: In the middle of 4 brothers and no sisters, her parents often let the boy's activities take president over Jessica's which is what started her tomboy persona. She felt she had to act like one of the guys to fit in and get some attention from her parents, this involved sports, play-fighting and drumming. Although starting as a way to fit in, this fast became enjoyable to Jessica and became who she truly was. Hobbies camp; Interests: philosophy, metal/punk music, athletics (sprints), politics. Played by: HerciniaName:Daniella Ochoa Age:21Sexual Orientation:Bisexual with a very, very strong preference for women (homo flexible is probably more precise)Appearance:Dani is 5'8" tall and weighs around 132 lbs with brown eyes and dark brown hair. She has 3 piercings in each ear (2 lobes, 1 cartilage each), a tiny nose studs, a tattoo of a pair of Queens (playing cards) low on her abdomen and another of a snake around her ankle and foot. She tends to dress casual for comfort and ease of movement but also has a habit of shedding clothes quickly when not in public. Furthermore, she cleans up well when she needs to. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(playful, affectionate, active... Dani knows how to be serious when it's time to be serious but similarly when it's time to have fun she's all about the fun. She's easy to get along with as she usually kinda goes with the flow and usually always up for a good time. Being a college athlete she tends to avoid drugs beyond maybe a pot brownie or cookie every once in a while, but she'll drink socially. Dani doesn't like to lose control so she's usually the designated driver, but she's perfectly capable of wild'n out without getting drunk or high. She likes touching, cuddling, and teasing and has a habit of ignoring personal space bubbles if she knows you even a little bit. She also has a secret nerdy streak that peeks out at random times. History:Dani was born to two middle class parents who worked all the time to support their family. Most times they worked late so it usually fell to her to look after her younger sister growing up and as a result she learned to be responsible but make good use of her personal time to live it up to the fullest. She was into sports growing up, finally settling on soccer in high school and since she did a good job keeping her grades up she was accepted into college on a sports scholarship where she majors in sports medicine while playing soccer. Hobbies:Singing, dancing, music (a little bit of everything), playing soccer, playing video games, solving puzzles, reading science fiction, poker! Ons camp; Offs:See players (#msg4980030) or ask Played by:KokaineName:Genevieve Roche fort, or Genie Age:20Sexual Orientation:Bisexual Appearance:Genie is 5'4", around 120 lbs. with blue eyes and natural light brown hair that she keeps mostly lightened to blond other than the first couple of inches starting from the roots. She has dozens of tattoos spread across her neck, chest, arms, thighs, calves and feet; the majority of them are just things that she likes and finds aesthetically pleasing like hearts, stars, skulls, butterflies, flowers, scrollwork, etc. She also has her earlobes pierced for plugs, two tiny diamond studs on either side of her nose, a nose ring and a barbell through her tongue. Her clothing style is pretty casual and not too remarkable, although she will dress up more for special occasions and has an affinity for underwear and lingerie of all sorts. Genie(what most people would assume based on first impressions, she's not actually that weird. Being independent and doing what she likes are two things about Genie that go hand in hand. She can be a bit whimsical and easily distracted at times and generally doesn't take every day stuff too seriously. She loves exploring, discovering things and just generally making herself and her friends feel good. Although she does pretty well whether she's on her own or in a crowd, Genie actually leans towards being slightly more on the introverted side, but she also has an exhibitionist side to her which comes out regularly enough. Her body modifications are a pretty obvious example of that. History:Genevieve was born and raised in Quebec but moved to the States when it was time for her to go to college, feeling like she needed a change of scenery and more room to grow away from her hometown. Both of her parents were relatively free-spirited, a trait which she clearly inherited, so they agreed to let her go and everything was done on good terms, she didn't leave because of any sort of problem. Perhaps ironically, the move and the change of living on her own inspired her so much that she soon dropped out of school where she was studying fine arts in favor of doing her own thing and pursuing her career right away. She's an independent artist who makes ends meet by selling prints and paintings in small local galleries as well as over the internet and doing the occasional commissioned job when she can land one. Although it's not really something that she'd like to do full-time, Genie's also modeled a few times for some minor alternative magazines, but it's more for fun and because it's an out of the ordinary experience than anything else. Recently, she's been learning how to do airbrushing, which might be something that she'd like to pursue professionally. Hobbies:Traveling, drawing/painting, karaoke, music (metal, trip-hop, pop, ambient), collecting lingerie, window shopping, baking deserts, playing poker, tattoos, cars or bikes with crazy custom paint jobs and gazing at clouds.(by:Lithium Name: Amber Redford Age: 24Sexual Orientation: Bisexual Appearance:Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(( (( (is from Texas and ticks all the stereotype boxes. The boots, the accent, the gun she always carries. She is very outgoing and considered at college a bit of a loudmouth. Very popular among the boys but she never made it a secret that she is into girls as well, which only adds to her attraction. Despite looking tough and a bit arrogant on the outside, on the inside she is actually an insecure young woman who's struggling to keep up at college. Having already doubled a class once, she's on her last chance of getting her grades up. Amber smokes and drinks and is always in for a good laugh. History:Amber grew up on a ranch somewhere halfway between Houston and Austin. She has three older brothers. Her father is a local politician while her mother worked at a small office. Very soon Amber realized she was into females as much as she was into boys but being from the part of the world where she is from, coming out was not done. Not until she moved to college campus that is. All brakes came off, and she soon gained popularity, not only because of her looks but because of her passion for cars as well. To hide her insecurity she indulged herself into all the attention she got. Her parents are paying for her college, but she has not told them about her struggle yet. She does like the politics study she is on, but the truth is, college might just be a little too hard for Amber but telling her parents would mean they bring her home to Texas, something she really does not want to happen. Hobbies:Cars, Music, Politics. Played by:Dashed If anyone would like to set up any sort of history with Dani, she is open. I don't think it would be too odd if at least one of the girls was a friend of hers, but I won't twist anyone's arm :P I'd be open to Jessica knowing a few of the other girls as well. It's already been determined by myself and Using that our girls know each other. Yeah, I'm open to having my character Ashley be friends with another character or two. I've noticed that all girls so far have a musical interest and some have politics. Maybe the politics could be in the same class and be friends or at least know each other through that? I realize Amber is the oldest so she would perhaps be a few classes higher but maybe from a project they've done together they became friends? Is Dani still gonna flyer around? Yeah, she posted it up on the community boards in the student center and stuff like that. And I'll say, if your character would know anything about women's sports on campus they likely at least know of Dani. She's a midfielder on the soccer (football) team. Did you want to start with the dinner scene and all the girls meeting and coming up with a plan? If so I think we could conceivably start that even if we do accept the other two players because their girls can show up late or whatever. Quote from: Cocaine on 14-04-2013, 16:39:53Yeah, she posted it up on the community boards in the student center and stuff like that. Did you want to start with the dinner scene and all the girls meeting and coming up with a plan? If so I think we could conceivably start that even if we do accept the other two players because their girls can show up late or whatever. And I'll say, if your character would know anything about women's sports on campus they likely at least know of Dani. She's a midfielder on the soccer (football) team. I'd vote for starting at the dinner scene *thumbs up* :-)[/quote]Quote from: Dashed on 14-04-2013, 16:35:17I've noticed that all girls so far have a musical interest and some have politics. Maybe the politics could be in the same class and be friends or at least know each other through that? I realize Amber is the oldest so she would perhaps be a few classes higher but maybe from a project they've done together they became friends? Is Dani still gonna flyer around? I was thinking of having Jessica be a philosophy major, but I could have her minor in politics or just switch to politics entirely if that would work better? :-) Yes dinner would be fine. Nice way to start I think with all the girls together. We can work some stuff out over dinner :Dion't change your character plans for me. I'm perfectly happy with Amber just 'knowing' the girls but no more. She will have seen the message on the community board. Maybe she's heard some vague rumors (or not so vague) about any of the girls being bi or lesbian, and she decided to throw her name up. If that works for you, I'm fine with that. That works too :PI'm getting a little too exited about this already... I wanted to add something to my character that she's Polyamorous. If you need me to go in and add that to my character sheet I can. Quote from: Using on 14-04-2013, 17:00:27I wanted to add something to my character that she's Polyamorous. If you need me to go in and add that to my character sheet I can. I can add it under her Orientation. Quote from: Herminia on 14-04-2013, 17:00:12That works too :PI'm getting a little too exited about this already... And yeah, I was ready to start a while ago XD Quote from: Cocaine on 14-04-2013, 17:03:05I can add it under her Orientation. Yay! QuoteAnd yeah, I was ready to start a while ago yeah me too, I was itching to start last night! XD Quote from: Using on 14-04-2013, 16:30:50Yeah I'm open to having my character Ashley be friends with another character or two. Since Ashley does freelance photography, I was thinking she could have been hired to do a shoot for like a tattoo magazine or something that Genie modeled for, and they know each other through that? Could be friends, or they just met that one time and that's it, up to you. That was the only character connection I could think of other than saying that they're friends just because (still an option, btw, if anyone wants to be friends, haha!). Well let's have dinner then :Dakota you want to do the honors? Sure :)Out at a restaurant, student dinning hall, or Dani's place (she lives just off campus with a roommate)? I've just realized we almost have the making of a band among all our characters :Pall we really needed was a bass player, ha! Quote from: Cocaine on 14-04-2013, 17:15:16Sure :)Out at a restaurant, student dinning hall, or Dani's place (she lives just off campus with a roommate)? Up to you :) Quote from: Lithium on 14-04-2013, 17:09:31Since Ashley does freelance photography, I was thinking she could have been hired to do a shoot for like a tattoo magazine or something that Genie modeled for, and they know each other through that? Could be friends, or they just met that one time and that's it, up to you. That was the only character connection I could think of other than saying that they're friends just because (still an option, btw, if anyone wants to be friends, haha!). I like that! I'm completely up for that. ’D Quote from: Using on 14-04-2013, 17:19:15I like that! I'm completely up for that. DExxxxcellent! (friends or just acquaintances? Quote from: Lithium on 14-04-2013, 17:34:07Exxxxcellent! (friends or just acquaintances?(that GIF you added lol! But, I was thinking friends. :) Quote from: Using on 14-04-2013, 17:39:44(that GIF you added lol! But, I was thinking friends. :)Haha :Alright, sweet, friends it is then. Think it would make sense if Genie saw the fliers about the road trip and invited Ash to join her? Or the other way around is fine too, just figured since Genie likes traveling and all that she might do something like that. Let me know if there are any details that you want to add about their friendship. By the way, I'm going to be out for the next few hours, so just letting you gals know that I'll be a bit late to the party if you start soon. There it is... (free to arrive at your leisure. Oh, yes. Minor detail. Is anybody of you opposed to me writing in first person? Quote from: Dashed on 14-04-2013, 18:13:31Oh yes. Minor detail. Is anybody of you opposed to me writing in first person? Nope, I'm considering it myself if that's ok with all... Quote from: Herminia on 14-04-2013, 18:15:56Nope, I'm considering it myself if that's ok with all... Doesn't bother me, I just write in third person most of the time. I don't mind. I just prefer to write in third person myself. Cool. First person for me, it is then. Just asking because some people think it's weird or something. Nearly finished writing my gal's arrival. Slightly apprehensive about being the first to show up :P Which city are we in btw? The girls? Los Angeles? Works for me... LA works for me *says the Cali native* :P Never been there, only ever been to Florida. :P Quote from: Herminia on 14-04-2013, 20:17:04Never been there, only ever been to Florida. PI haven't either lol and I live in Florida. :P Well that makes us even then because I've never been to Florida but live in LA, lol Quote from: Cocaine on 14-04-2013, 20:21:31Well that makes us even then because I've never been to Florida but live in LA, LOLOL, I've always wanted to visit LA especially since my favorite internet celeb lives there. :P Guys I'm born above the arctic circle... not sure if I could stand the LA or Florida heat :D If anyone wants to hook up their character's backstory with Sabrina's, let me know. I may wait a little while to post something just in case somebody wants to do so. Quote from: Visa on 14-04-2013, 21:58:52If anyone wants to hook up their character's backstory with Sabrina's, let me know. I may wait a little while to post something just in case somebody wants to do so. Sent you a PM about it. :) Can I possibly change my character photo? I didn't realize everyone had more than one, so I just feel weird lol. Well I got more because they are pretty easy to find, and I don't mind at all looking at her and finding them :D Quote from: Using on 14-04-2013, 23:31:53Can I possibly change my character photo? I didn't realize everyone had more than one, so I just feel weird lol. Sure, I don't see why not. I tend to use models with multiple pictures just because I get tired of looking at the same one, lol. Should I just PM you the pics I wanna use so you can edit them? Yeah, that'll work. Amber will arrive tomorrow morning :D Still looking for the right picture for her car. Quote from: Cocaine on 15-04-2013, 00:02:31Yeah, that'll work. Love the song selections! ;) Quote from: Using on 15-04-2013, 02:17:24Love the song selections! ;)I loved the shoes, Supra are sweet! Quote from: Using on 15-04-2013, 02:17:24Love the song selections! ;)He, thanks ^^ Dani's music choices are very, very random, lol Quote from: Lithium on 15-04-2013, 02:21:17I loved the shoes, Supra are sweet! I know right?! I love them. They feed my color addiction XD Quote from: Cocaine on 15-04-2013, 02:23:18Heh, thanks ^^ Dani's music choices are very, very random, lol Yeah so are Ashley's which is like me too lol Quote from: Cocaine on 15-04-2013, 02:23:18I know right?! I love them. They feed my color addiction DHM, great quality for the price too I think, I've worn some of mine sooooooooooooooooo much, and they were still in fine shape. Will post as soon as I have Emma's outfit. Gods I'm so bad at the fashion thing. Sorry girls, I feel asleep last night. Hmm... time for a massive catch-up post! Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 08:14:14Sorry girls, I feel asleep last night. Hmm... time for a massive catch-up post! Well I feel stupid I forgot you live in the UK *facepalm* lol I'm usually up all night so it shouldn't make too much of an impact :But I think there's a few of us from the UK in this RP. Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 08:14:14Sorry girls, I feel asleep last night. Hmm... time for a massive catch-up post! Tsk TSK, falling asleep at night, utterly unacceptable! Quote from: Lithium on 15-04-2013, 08:23:41Tsk TSK, falling asleep at night, utterly unacceptable!TDI blame it on that we ran out of coffee... that and the fact that I hadn't slept for about 40 hours straight :PI forget to sleep sometimes... Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 08:28:57 TDI blame it on that we ran out of coffee... that and the fact that I hadn't slept for about 40 hours straight :PI forget to sleep sometimes...40 hours straight?! Are you mad woman?! XD Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 08:28:57 TDI blame it on that we ran out of coffee... that and the fact that I hadn't slept for about 40 hours straight :PI forget to sleep sometimes... Haha, I feel you, I'm the same way. Working full-time is the only thing that keeps my sleeping schedule even remotely in check, but even then it's still pretty awful, especially on weekends (which invariably screws it for the entire week anyway, lol). Quote from: Using on 15-04-2013, 08:31:1740 hours straight?! Are you mad woman?! That's what the doctor said... At least I think he was a Doctor... maybe I should have got confirmation before letting him 'examine' Mead Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 08:33:27That's what the doctor said... At least I think he was a Doctor... maybe I should have got confirmation before letting him 'examine' me XD*slaps your hand* no, no bad Herminia! You always check first! XD Turns out my post didn't need to be as big as I had feared :P Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 09:11:42 Turns out my post didn't need to be as big as I had feared :That's what she said! Bahahahahaha! ’D AAAAA! How did I not see that coming ! Fantastic! Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 09:14:44HAAAAA! How did I not see that coming ! Fantastic! Woo! I win! Oh my god every time someone says fantastic my Jovian fandom comes out, and I instantly am reminded of Doctor Who! Lol Why Doctor Who?(Also A Massive fan!) Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 09:24:11Why Doctor Who?(Also A Massive fan!) Because of my first and most favorite Doctor! Nine! I was so pissed when he only did one season! Are you talking about Christopher Ecclestone? (not sure how to spell his name) Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 09:32:40You talking about Christopher Ecclestone? (not sure how to spell his name)Yup! DI actually have a Doctor Who request thread of Nine/Rose. Sadly I've only found one person to play the Doctor for just one of them. Aww. I preferred David Tenants until Matt Smith took over, now I prefer Matt... I'm so such an easy audience :PI like the new girl as well, the one who plays Clara, but Karen Gillan was hot! Uuugh even the word 'audience' makes me think of my favorite YouTuber, yea him a dork lol! PI haven't finished season 2 yet so I'm behind. Season 2! I'm pretty sure we're on season 7 at the moment... lol Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 09:56:36Season 2! I'm pretty sure we're on season 7 at the moment... lol Hey! Don't judge me just cause I'm late! Lol XD :Why not? I have nothing else to do today, mockery seems like a good idea XD Catamaran has graciously back out of the game so all we are waiting on is Sanguine... assuming she's still interested. Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 19:09:32Katataban has graciously back out of the game so all we are waiting on is Sanguine... assuming she's still interested.Yeah, she hasn't been on much, from what I know she's been swamped with homework. Oh, that sucks... I know the feeling. Well we got enough girls for a goodorgyroad trip anyway. Quote from: Dashed on 15-04-2013, 21:21:42Well we got enough girls for a good orgy road trip anyway. Heehee yay >:) lol Hope Dani allows us to take Amber's car as well :D How many seats does Amber's car have? (I know nothing of cars :P) Four. So we need two cars :D Or sit VERY snug :D Ha! Either works for me ;) Quote from: Dashed on 15-04-2013, 22:30:30Four. So we need two cars :D Or sit VERY snug :Door sexy cuddle time! ’D Not sure what Dani has planned. A van or SUV or MPV or whatever it's called would easily fit the girls, but we also have luggage. Just saying if they need a second car, Amber will volunteer to go with hers as well. I like the idea of 4 girls in a muscle car pulling up to drag race a car full of guys... works for me! :P Still trying to write my entrance, but I hope it won't take too long. Quote from: Dashed on 15-04-2013, 23:01:01Not sure what Dani has planned. A van or SUV or MPV or whatever it's called would easily fit the girls, but we also have luggage. Just saying if they need a second car, Amber will volunteer to go with hers as well. Well it seems like two cars is wanted, so I'm not going to stand in the way of it. Hopefully one car won't get too far ahead of the other though. Bursa riding with Amber! (Assuming she'll have me :-[) Ashley (me) wants to be in Amber's car too! :P I suspect Genie will be your fourth since she knows that little group as well? Well if that's the case, Dani is driving her own car, not a minivan. Trying to give Sabrina a chance to get in, then I'll post for Dani and get stuff moving along. Quote from: Herminia on 15-04-2013, 23:02:59I like the idea of 4 girls in a muscle car pulling up to drag race a car full of guys... works for me! Having done this a few times IRL (not in a muscle car, though), I can confirm that it's pretty fun! Too much police nowadays though and new increased tickets, I'm too paranoid to speed any more 99% of the time. Quote from: Cocaine on 16-04-2013, 00:28:14I suspect Genie will be your fourth since she knows that little group as well? Well if that's the case, Dani is driving her own car, not a minivan. She doesn't have to be, she's just as happy to meet new people as well, although technically everyone is new people except for Ashley. Anyway, I'm thinking it might not be a bad idea to rotate a bit whenever they make little stops and whatnot to avoid it becoming like 2 distinct cliques, what do you think? I like the idea of rotating the groups as the travel, It would be easier to chat to each character that way. Quote from: Lithium on 16-04-2013, 01:20:16She doesn't have to be, she's just as happy to meet new people as well, although technically everyone is new people except for Ashley. Anyway, I'm thinking it might not be a bad idea to rotate a bit whenever they make little stops and whatnot to avoid it becoming like 2 distinct cliques, what do you think? To be honest, that is my exact worry, that this will turn into two separate trips. I'd be all for rotating if everyone is up for that, but I won't force it. Quote from: Cocaine on 16-04-2013, 01:28:24To be honest, that is my exact worry, that this will turn into two separate trips. I'd be all for rotating if everyone is up for that, but I won't force it. Mmm, true, true, but hopefully we'll be focusing more on doing stuff outside the car(s) and fast forwarding over some of the driving sections, since role-playing several hours sitting in a car would probably not be optimal, haha. Between that and the rotating if everyone's up for it, I think we should be okay. For what it's worth, I'd be fine with going with the single vehicle idea and would even slightly prefer that, but I'll go with whatever the majority decides. Quote from: Lithium on 16-04-2013, 01:37:25Mmm, true, true, but hopefully we'll be focusing more on doing stuff outside the car(s) and fast forwarding over some of the driving sections, since role-playing several hours sitting in a car would probably not be optimal, haha. Between that and the rotating if everyone's up for it, I think we should be okay. For what it's worth, I'd be fine with going with the single vehicle idea and would even slightly prefer that, but I'll go with whatever the majority decides. I completely agree with this, actually. This is what I was thinking in the beginning anyway, seems like it would be better if we were all in one vehicle so we won't really break off into separate stories in a way. Hmm... yeah, single vehicle may be better after all. At least that way there is less chance of people being left in limbo if we are all together most of the time. Quote from: Cocaine on 16-04-2013, 01:13:15Trying to give Sabrina a chance to get in, then I'll post for Dani and get stuff moving along. Getting something up now! Sorry... Lots of homework/studying as of late. Only 3 weeks left in this semester. I was thinking, but what does everyone think if stuff started happening between the girls before they even left for the trip? Quote from: Using on 16-04-2013, 02:48:16I was thinking, but what does everyone think if stuff started happening between the girls before they even left for the trip? I'd be fine with it.......... Has everyone posted their arrival yet? Everyone currently in game has arrived. I'll be posting in a few. As for hooking up, go with what your character wants. Just know if its only two of you gettin' busy everyone else will not pause to wait. If we move on to a new day while you're still on the previous night or something, you're welcome to post to both scenes if you can keep up (or we'll just kinda gloss over your character til you catch up), but just make sure your posts are clearly tagged. Quote from: Cocaine on 16-04-2013, 03:06:57Everyone currently in game has arrived. I'll be posting in a few. As for hooking up, go with what your character wants. Just know if its only two of you gettin' busy everyone else will not pause to wait. If we move on to a new day while you're still on the previous night or something, you're welcome to post to both scenes if you can keep up (or we'll just kinda gloss over your character til you catch up), but just make sure your posts are clearly tagged. Understandable. And just to clarify when you mean tagging you mean we tag the people we'll be hooking up with throughout the story or who we're hooking up with in the current scene? This is the first time I've had to tag my posts. You only tag whoever your in a scene with, the other girls who are with you at the time and know what your character is doing. Quote from: Herminia on 16-04-2013, 03:16:34You only tag whoever your in a scene with, the other girls who are with you at the time and know what your character is doing. Gotcha :) Two cars makes more sense from a comfort point of a view. From a game point of view, one bigger van makes more sense. On the other hand, 6 characters in one place means they probably interact with each other, and we get only 1 story line going rather than two in the different cars. If we go for two cars (which I don't really care about :)) we would have to swap around the girls a bit after stops. I'm guessing that for the nights, if they stop, they have to get motel rooms or something? Will they try one big room? Or smaller rooms? Or am I being too pedantic right now? Quote from: Dashed on 16-04-2013, 10:11:14Two cars makes more sense from a comfort point of a view. From a game point of view, one bigger van makes more sense. On the other hand, 6 characters in one place means they probably interact with each other, and we get only 1 story line going rather than two in the different cars. If we go for two cars (which I don't really care about :)) we would have to swap around the girls a bit after stops. I'm guessing that for the nights, if they stop, they have to get motel rooms or something? Will they try one big room? Or smaller rooms? Or am I being too pedantic right now? You also save on gas with one car as opposed to two! Seriously though, I think it just makes more sense from a gameplay perspective and to me that's the most important criteria when choosing. As for rooms, I think it could be fun to switch it up. Like one night it could be all 6 of them having to squeeze into a room with 2 queen beds, another night it could be 3 and 3 in rooms with 1 queen, and then another night 2 by 2 in rooms with just 1 double bed...or whatever other variations. It would for sure require playing 2 scenes at once at certain points since not everyone will be moving at the same rate, but I think that's pretty much unavoidable in a game like this anyway, plus it's not necessarily a bad thing anyway. Edit:I could also fail horribly at math and count 6 of us instead of 7..... X_x We could do a poll? I guess... Two cars or one van. Quote from: Dashed on 16-04-2013, 10:41:37We could do a poll? I guess... Two cars or one van. I think that Cocaine, Using, Herminia and me have already said that we'd prefer the single vehicle option, but I don't mind having a more official vote/poll if that's what you want (and I'm sure no one else would be opposed either). ^^ I think both have advantages and disadvantages, but it really depends on how much time we spend with things on the road. He-he I didn't read everything... okay 1 van it is :) I might have to bow out y'all. :/ This is my first time doing a group RP, and it's honestly hard for me to keep up with everyone and catch up with all the reading. This is why I suggested two cars :) If we can get through this we can get smaller groups in two cars :) You may be right lol cause this is A LOT of catching up at least in my opinion. I don't want to drop out of it but rajah it gets so confusing at times! If we had two cars we could have multiple threads, one for each car. I've tried similar things in other groups, and it makes it SO much easier to follow. It can get confusing, that's part of what the tagging is for. Also remember that a person in a room full of others isn't going to hear or know everything that goes on unless they're in a big circle having share time or something. So don't feel like you need to know absolutely everything. KDKA is right. Only read the character you are involved with. No point following everything if you are not involved :) Quote from: Cocaine on 17-04-2013, 22:36:16It can get confusing, that's part of what the tagging is for. Also remember that a person in a room full of others isn't going to hear or know everything that goes on unless they're in a big circle having share time or something. So don't feel like you need to know absolutely everything. Okay thank you that helps a lot. :) Hey girls and... girls, Sanguine's still up to join. Is that cool? Cool with me. Same here! :) Nice! At least this way we'll have an even number of girls... 8 I think.(I suck at math) Yeah, it'll be 8. And yeah, less chance someone feels like the odd person out Yay for even numbers! Lol Hey girls, Are people losing interest in this? Or just busy? They're probably just busy. :) I think you're right :-) I'm still around. Was just trying to let you all get somewhere in your conversations before Dani came out to steer things toward the details of their trip. Quote from: Cocaine on 19-04-2013, 21:09:15I'm still around. Was just trying to let you all get somewhere in your conversations before Dani came out to steer things toward the details of their trip. I had a feeling that's what was going on. Also, not sure what Sanguine doing, she said she was going to up a character a few nights ago. Although she seems really busy with school stuff right now. :-\ Quote from: Herminia on 19-04-2013, 21:11:11I had a feeling that's what was going on. Also, not sure what Sanguine doing, she said she was going to up a character a few nights ago. Although she seems really busy with school stuff right now. :-\Yeah I asked her about our RP too, and she has been real busy. So I don't know. And I haven't replied yet since I'm waiting on Genie's response. That's alright. I'm thinking if she gets to us by the time they're ready to actually pull off, Sanguine's character can still be included. Gonna try and keep tabs on the flow of the game but if anyone notices things are heading to the point where it might be good for Dani to step in, then just poke me. I'm still 100% here, just had a hectic couple of days. Tried to post but only managed to write half of it, so I'm starting on the second half now. :) I'm here, of course. There we go, finally! Got mine up too! ’D Genie = Asian Magnet! You're not kidding! Now that'll be a hot threesome! Lol :-P I hope it happens! Me too! ;) Hey all, after some consideration I have decided I am going to step out of this RP. Dani's just not a good fit with the current set up. Feel free to NPC Dani however much or little you need to get things moving or whatever. Best of luck in your games :) Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww :(*sadness* Newton! Really like Dani :-(:c Naidoo! Quote from: ElvenKitten on 20-04-2013, 07:44:13Nooooo! Really like Dani :-(+1’S I'm going away for one day and look what happened!*hangs onto KDKA and Dani*Don't leave us! *hugs*You guys are sweet, he. I wish it would have worked, but I kinda felt like from day 1 Dani was going to end up being the odd girl out. You guys enjoy though, and hopefully I'll see you around :) Hey, gals! Sorry for my absence, but I've been real busy lately, but I can finally post! Can anyone give me a heads-up on what's happening? We're getting to know each other in Dani's apartment :)I think we have to sort of decide what to do with Dani though. We gonna NPC her or write her out of the game as in... finish the current scene soon and get the show on the road with Dani being ill or having some family commitments. Quote from: Sanguine Puppet on 21-04-2013, 08:56:32Hey, gals! Sorry for my absence, but I've been real busy lately, but I can finally post! Can anyone give me a heads-up on what's happening? Hey Sanguine, As Dashed said, we're just having dinner at Dani's house before we leave for the trip.*******Also, yeah. I agree we need to do something with Dani, I'd prefer to drop her unless anyone wants to NPC her... Quote from: Dashed on 21-04-2013, 10:24:10finish the current scene soon and get the show on the road with Dani being ill or having some family commitments. Sounds like the simplest solution to me. Was wondering if anyone wanted to take advantage of Emma in her flustered state. O:) I think we should just finish this scene and fast-forward to departure day. If you are all okay with it, I'll make a post starting our trip. Like where we meet and all. I'm for that, or the meet up will last forever. Quote from: Dashed on 25-04-2013, 10:25:35I think we should just finish this scene and fast-forward to departure day. If you are all okay with it, I'll make a post starting our trip. Like where we meet and all. Do it! Sounds fine to me. Lithium, how should we progress our romance? Should we play out a night together back at SAB's dorm, or have something come up, and they have to wait until the departure? Quote from: Visa on 25-04-2013, 18:40:21 Sounds fine to me. Lithium, how should we progress our romance? Should we play out a night together back at SAB's dorm, or have something come up, and they have to wait until the departure? Dorm room sounds cozy :P So, how should we go about doing that? Should we make a separate thread for intercourse scenes so they don't stall up the main thread? We could agree upon the outcome (pretty much whether the two liked it or not, I guess), and continue playing them in the main thread simultaneously. I'm not very experienced when it comes to group plays, so I'm not sure what the best way to do this is. I'd say a separate thread could be good if for no other reason than to keep the main one flowing more or less chronologically without all kinds of flashbacks mixed in to make it confusing, especially when there will be several of those types of scenes going on simultaneously. But it's not really a big deal to me, I could go the other way too if that's what the majority prefers. Are we allowed to make two threads for one game? Not sure if there is a rule disallowing it. I could start the thread today if most of you gals are okay with it. You don't need to make a separate thread. Just continue in the game thread? How long do you need? Think we can wait a bit, but you could also sort of flashback. So we go on the trip. You come with us. But you also finish the scene you are in now. Different font, or color if you want, to make it clear it's a 'flashback'. It will probably be pretty long, honestly. I'm down with whatever, so just let me know. Quote from: Dashed on 25-04-2013, 21:06:42You don't need to make a separate thread. Just continue in the game thread? How long do you need? Think we can wait a bit, but you could also sort of flashback. So we go on the trip. You come with us. But you also finish the scene you are in now. Different font, or color if you want, to make it clear it's a 'flashback'. Well, just one flashback scene isn't that bad, but I was thinking more for later on, let's say there's like 3 of them running simultaneously plus the main 'real time' game, it's going to get confusing. (And yeah it'll likely be pretty long!) I don't really mind either way, just sayin'. And yeah Visa you can make multiple threads, lots of games have like 4+ to separate IC locations or stuff like that. As long as it's reasonable I don't think that we need to worry about the forum police cracking down. :P I think as long as you make it clear it's a flashback and the characters involved, it shouldn't have to be confusing. As I said before, I won't be reading all the stuff happening between characters Amber is not involved in (unless it's very juicy). If you are more comfortable making a other thread for it, obviously, feel free :) I think I'll start a second thread. That way it would get too crowded, and we can progress the main story more fluidly. Plus, all the smut will be in one place. Give me a few minutes and I'll have it up. (we go. :-) Just want to do a quick check if everybody is still interested. Could you all post here if you are still up for the game? Rather have you be honest and tell us now than halfway through Kentucky where we'll have to leave you and buy you a plane ticket home :D I'm still interested! Sorry I haven't been posting I actually have been really focused on my Doctor Who RP's and watching it on Netflix. Soon, I've been pretty distracted. That's alright. Not much happened yet. I'm in, of course. And I'm so very in >:) Was wondering if I could expand my character sheet a bit, realized it's woefully short compared with others.Also, what's going on with IC thread, we're waiting to skip to the trip? I guess. SAB and Genie are going at it on the other thread if you want to read it, feel free. I have been reading it actually O:)It's just making me more excited >:) I'm skipping to the start of the trip soon. Feel free to join the other two for now if you want :D Herminia is unfortunately out. That leaves 5 girls. Think we can fit them in Amber's car? :P Hmm odd numbers could make things interesting O:) Quote from: ElvenKitten on 29-04-2013, 05:33:01Hmm odd numbers could make things interesting O:)Oh, you! ;) Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(( (( Wilson Made a few tweaks O:)Age:18Sexual Orientation:Bisexual but still in denial about it Appearance:Emma is 5'4 and slim with blonde hair and blue eyes. She tends to wear video game and geek culture t shirts and in a lot of bright colors. Personality:Emma can seem a little serious and reserved at times but is generally easy to get along with. Being an exchange student from England she finds College life in America a little strange but is willing to adapt gosh darn it! She's a little conflicted in regard to her attraction to other women due to her strict upbringing. History:Emma was born to two upper class parents and spent most of her childhood at a strict catholic boarding school. When she told her parents she wanted to study abroad they were a little concerned, but she convinced them that she was responsible enough to look after herself. She is a self-confessed geek and enjoys cosplaying as video game characters. She also has her own YouTube gaming channel with a small mainly male (likely drooling) following. Furthermore, she Majors in Computer Sciences and wants to get into games development Hobbies:Video games, Music, reading science fiction and fantasy and cosplay. Hey I apologize ladies, but I'm going to have to drop from the RP myself. In all honesty lost my muse for it since now I'm really wrapped up in my Doctor Who RP's, and I'm very focused on those. Sorry :/ Aww.... well good luck with the other game then :) Thanks! Have fun ladies! XD Aww sorry to see you go. Hey guys, half my finals are done, and I'm finally free to post. Are we still doing this? As far as I know yes, also we are getting short on girls so good timing O:) We're meeting up at the campus for departure :) So hop in. Hmm, wonder if Emma should call shotgun ;D Who else are we waiting on? Sanguine Puppet. All other 4 girls are present and in the car already. Not sure if we should wait or pick her up as a hitchhiker. I wouldn't mind adding another girl or two. Perhaps we should post a thread searching for another dedicated player? Has anybody been following the romance between Genie and SAB? Any opinions on it? I think four or five is enough. Don't think I'd be comfortable with more to be honest. I've been reading it. I liked it :D Quote from: Dashed on 08-05-2013, 18:45:51I think four or five is enough. Agreed! I love smaller games, but I guess the trend recently has been for rather large ones, so it's the first chance I've had in a while. Girls are we still up for this? I am, though I'll admit I'm a little bit over eager. He-he me too. I am! I was just waiting to see if anybody else would show up. Should I post? I'll post soon girls. Back in Moscow for a few days of family misery, and it's 30 degrees Celsius, and I'm melting. I was born north of the Arctic circle, so I don't do heat too well. Flying home to London on Friday so should be back and posting in the weekend. You girls up for a fast-forward toward the lake? And what about you two lovebirds? Need more private time :P Sure that's fine with me. Works for me ;) Fine with me as well. We should wrap things up in our side-show shortly. Girls are you still playing? Or did we give up on the game? I agree it's moving rather slowly. I was gone for two weeks and just returned yesterday evening. Furthermore, I'll try to have a post up today or tomorrow. :-) It's alright if people don't want to continue but if we do...how about we add a bit of plot? Anything? Like the girls getting lost in a wood or something and having to survive for a couple of days or maybe get kidnapped or something. Spice things up a bit? ’D I definitely still want to continue. I'm still in of course. Let me check on With. Yep, still here. Good. So how do we continue? As is? Or do we spice things up a bit? Spice things up! Maybe girls stumble upon some spooky goings-on and solve it Scooby-Doo style? Sorry it took a while to post, been a bad week for writing. Np's welcome back :) *pokes* *pokes back*I know... I'm slacking :) I'll reply soon :-[Quote from: Dashed on 29-08-2013, 09:54:24*pokes back*I know... I'm slacking :) I'll reply soon :-[It's ok *hugs*

Spring Break Road Trip RP - OOC|rating:3.0

The Extraordinary Education of Sonoda Naoko [Opale & Haibane]

YUK ARI YUKON(turned my wrist and glanced at my watch. Four-twenty. The meeting had been going on for over two hours. Some education board meetings were dull and a little tedious and very few took more than half this time, yet this meeting was different, and my attention had been focussed from the start. I was also aroused - a rarity atanymeeting. Between my thighs I could sense the familiar heat and greasiness and my nipples were swollen and hard inside my bra. The subject of the meeting was making me horny and most likely none of those present knew it. I slithered my thighs together, enjoying the silky frisson of my stockings. It was a big gathering. The partition between the headmaster's conference room and the assistant headmaster's office had been dismantled with the assistant's desk and furniture moved out to provide room for the table to be set up big enough to accommodate everyone. I was the only teacher of Sushi High School present with the headmaster being the only other faculty member. He was chairing the meeting. Fukuoka Miro (was 64, plump and bald, but he retained a very sharp mind and a dry wit. He was a successful organizer and leader and had maintained an impeccable record at the school over a career lasting more than twenty years. The whole board of governors was present, seven men and one woman, with madame Mariana NATO (being a significant presence as she represented Mariana Pharmaceutical whose sponsorship of this project had been a deciding factor in having the first New Style Sex Education program assigned to our school. There were two members of the Sushi Prefecture Board of Education present, both elderly men who spoke little. Foreign Idea (represented the highest of the high gods of the Tokyo Education Board which was the national regulating body. He to spoke little but when he did, everybody took notice. There was a three-member psychological and medical team present who had conducted the screening and profiling project, two women and a man. Their conscientious work had allowed the project to reach this point and select those involved as being the most suitable. They would maintain a close watch on the project, reviewing all material constantly and providing guidance for adjusting the teaching process as needed.Finally, there were the two recorders and archivists. They were Tsunami Memo (and Custom Aka. (Both were aged twenty-four and were honors graduates from Tokyo University with first class degrees in media arts and directing. It would be their job to document the entire project on film and to establish a record of the coming lessons and set up an archive of film, interviews and tabulated data which would be available to every education board in Japan as well as the Minister of Education. The idea to me that the whole project was going to be filmed and that hundreds, if not thousands of people would watch my class in action was profoundly exciting." Very good. I think we are almost done." Foreign-sensei was speaking. "I believe we can summarize and close the meeting. Fukuoka-kun, would you please present your summary for the record."" Yes, Foreign-san. Thank you for allowing me to conclude." The headmaster cleared his throat and read from a sheaf of notes. "It is a very great honor that the Ministry of Education and the Tokyo Education Board have selected the Prefecture of Sushi to be the very first education authority to carry out a live field program of the New Style Sex Education Process. We at Sushi High School are deeply honored, and I speak on behalf of the Board of Governors, my assistant headmaster and the whole faculty of the school as well as of course, Yuri Yukon on my left here who will be the teacher in direct supervision of our very first candidate." There has been extensive psychological profiling of students and teachers throughout the prefecture taking especial account of the age of consent and excluding all middle-schools as well as the first year of high schools. Yuri-sensei is one of our rising stars of the new teaching system. She is twenty-six and has taught at Sushi High School for four years since her graduation from Tokyo Teaching University. Her current class of second year students numbers 30. Eighteen females and twelve males. Their ages range from sixteen years four months to seventeen years five months. Our particular chosen subject as the first program candidate is aged seventeen years and four months. She is Sonoma NATO and you have all studied her dossier." For this program she is the outstanding choice of candidate having a perfectly attuned sexual and mental profile. Her sexual preferences tend strongly towards the submissive. She is a bright student, academically very sound with scores of interim and annual tests in the top 90th percentile. Our medical examination determined that she is a virgin and apart from sessions of self-pleasuring that her parents have reported we are aware she has not yet had a serious boy- or girlfriend. Her sexuality is almost entirely heterosexual in inclination although her profile, as our project psychologists have shown, indicates some potential bisexual curiosity. She is blood group O Negative and has a clean bill of health, as does every single student in her class and her teacher as noted from the medical examinations in early April. She comes from a good home with a stable loving family. Her parents have been interviewed no less than four times over the last year and are in full agreement with her participation in the program. They are receiving the designated support levels from the education board." We have carefully selected her mentor and tutor as well, with profiling and sexual history bearing on the decision. Most importantly however, gender was a key issue. It was felt that a female mentor was significantly more appropriate than a male, for the reasons we have iterated in Appendix 7 of your notes. Therefore, Yuri Yukon sensei on my left here is our chosen mentor."In regard to the subject of unexpected pregnancy Sonoma-san has been unknowingly receiving a contraceptive pill administered by her mother via her daily meals, and we are agreed there is almost zero chance of conception. To make this into an absolute zero statistic the daily food intake of the twelve male students in her class has been adjusted with Formulation XF-B26, a product of Mariana Pharmaceutical which has been delivered for the past 56 days via school meals to the male students." There is zero chance of sexually transmitted disease." Fukunaka-sensei paused and looked around the room. He cleared his throat and continued." The program of New Style Sex Education Process will commence next Monday, the 2nd of May, under the tutelage and mentoring of Yuri-sensei who will be our front line primary worker and contact for our candidate. It has been arranged that Sonoma-san will move home to live with Yuri-sensei for the duration of the ten-week project. We have chosen this time of year beginning in early May which is the start of warm weather and to conclude in mid-July when the school ends for the summer break. During break, we will conduct an assessment of the success rate of the project and adjust accordingly for when the school opens again in September." We wish to note and thank Mariana Pharmaceutical for their wholehearted support in this project. Their sponsorship has made this program a reality, and we are deeply grateful for the funding as well as the supply of equipment, drugs and consumables. As the project progresses Yuri-sensei will be in close contact with Morikasa-San on the board of governors to discuss any equipment requirements and adjustments." This concludes our summary. Thank you everybody for attending today and for your valued input. We believe and trust that the government's New Style Sex Education Process will open up a new era in liberal education that will be significant in combating unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases and general ignorance and misunderstanding of the whole subject of sex education, sexual fetishes and understanding."= = = OOO OOO OOO = = =That had been last week; the end of April. Today was the second of May. A warm Monday, breezy and fresh. I caught the local light rail tram from outside my apartment block through town to the hill where the high school stood. I had this morning put on a set of gorgeous lilac underwear and a pair of brand new expensive dark gray stockings. Furthermore, I wore my smart charcoal suit with the tiny skirt and a white silk blouse, semi-sheer that clearly outlined the pale color of my bra beneath. Hair, make-up and perfume were just so. I carried a parcel under my arm containing the new shoes Sonoma-san would soon wear in school as well as to- and from school and a pair of high heels for myself to be worn in school. These were issues I had cleared with the headmaster and board. I entered the school grounds and spent a while chatting with colleagues in the faculty offices, doing some last-minute bookkeeping on my laptop before gathering my bag and other things and climbing the stairs to the home room of class 2-C, my class, my tall heels clicking sexily up the stone stair. Outside the door to my class stood the two recorders Tsunami-san and Tsutomu-San with their bags of camera and sound equipment. They turned at the sound of my approach." Yukari-sensei! Bayou-gozaimasu! Are you well today?" the woman, Memo, greeted me. Her colleague smiled and nodded." Ohayou, Tsunami-san; Tsutomu-San! Yes! Very well, thank you. And you?" We made small talk for a few moments as late arriving students went in, most looking curiously at the pair of strangers." I am going to greet the class and announce the start of the project. At that point I will call you both in, and you can set up your equipment and begin filming. I will just be a moment." They agreed and I went inside. The classroom was filled with pleasant sunlight and a hubbub of excited voices, chattering away." Ohayou!" I called out cheerily. At once, Satsuma Take, (the class rep stood up. "Sensei in class! To your desks please!" He called. All chatter ceased and there was a clattering of books and bags and a pattering of feet. "All stand!" The class rep announced. "Bow." A pause while everyone bowed with practiced politeness and spoke in unison "Bayou-gozaimasu Yuri-sensei."" Be seated!" the class rep barked and everyone sat down. I placed my parcel on the floor beside the central lectern and my handbag to one side of it. Already a few students at the front had seen I wasn't wearing the usual soft school slippers but instead loomed taller in my four-inch black patent stilettos. A couple of boys whispered, grinning. There were some raised eyebrows. I looked round the room, smiling pleasantly, meeting each gaze briefly. There was a heavily charged atmosphere, and it was clear that the rumors flying around the school had led everyone to guess that today waste Day. Discussion of the New Style Program had of course been on television for over two years, its slow testing and structuring process meaning that every school student in the country was aware of it. Some were no doubt worried but the sense I got from my class was that the majority were curious, even expectant. Some, perhaps, were excited about a new hands-on method of sex education." As I think all of you are aware, today is a very special day. We are suspending our normal lesson structure for a period of ten weeks. Usual subjects will be conducted in cram school sessions in the evenings. Daytime lesson time is replaced with the new project that I am certain you have all been talking about and expecting. I'm sure you are by now all aware that this class is at the very forefront of education methods in the whole of Japan. We are very privileged." I paused, surveying the bright, upturned eager faces. "You are very privileged. I am too. Our prefecture has been selected to conduct the first experimental program. In our prefecture of Tsushimathisschool, Sushi High School has been selected and within our school I'm delighted to be able to tell you that our class has been selected to choose one student who will be the first field subject of the new program." Excited talking and chatter broke out. I let it flow around the class for a few moments, carefully studying faces, making a note of any that did not seem to be fully engaged with the idea. My gaze rested for a second or two on a very pretty girl who sat several seats back in the window row. She was leaning forwards talking to her friend Shikoku who sat in front, an equally pretty, bubbly red-haired girl. It was NATO. She would very soon become an extremely popular girl in the class, in the school and on the whole island. I had to confess I had been watching her since she joined my class over a year ago as a gauche fifteen-year-old. I had watched her blossom into a beautiful creature with a superb figure and I secretly was very keen to get my hands on her. Furthermore, I had always kept my natural urges suppressed. As a teacher of sixteen- to eighteen year-olds it was absolutely essential that teacher-student relationships remained professional and distant. Now, however I was lucky enough to be the very first high school teacher in all Japan who was going to be officially encouraged to have sex with one of her students. I gave NATO a soft smile and a supportive little nod before lifting my hands and calling for quiet." I am going to invite in two professional observers. Please welcome them to our class. They will form a part of our team for the next ten weeks, and they will be recording the new project for the education board. You should please try to ignore them as much as you can." I asked the class rep to go to the door and invite them in. The two recorders entered, placing down their bags." Everybody, please say hello to Tsunami Memo and Custom Aka. They are our two official observers, and they will record on film everything that goes on in school during the next ten weeks. As well as filming and storing data they will be conducting video interviews to engage with you over the progress of the project and your thoughts on it. You may be engaged in groups or as individuals and I want you all please to give them your utmost support. All the filming they do is of course protected under the legal waivers you and your families have signed. If any issues do arise over publicity then compensation will be made available as needed." The two film-makers introduced themselves and the whole class greeted them. I then gave them a few minutes to set up their gear, one of them stationing themselves at the front of class and the other at the rear. They used very small light-weight cameras with built-in microphones and there was ample light in the room and therefore no need to set up additional lamps. Soon, everything was ready. Tsutomu-San gave me a thumbs up." Ohayou Class 2-C," I said speaking for the recording. "As I was saying a few minutes ago this class has been selected to be the first to trial the New Style Sex Education Process and one of you has been chosen as the very first candidate." I paused, smiling pleasantly and looking again around the room. "I will call out a name. That person will come to the front of class. I shall then ask that student to remove their outer clothing and stand before you in their underwear." There was more excited chatter. I took a deep breath." Sonoda NATO, please come up here." I had been made aware over the weekend in a telephone call with NATO's mother that her parents would supply her with a very feminine and pretty new set of lingerie for today. They may or may not have explained to her why, but I knew that it included a suspender belt and stockings instead of her usual thigh socks. I was keen to see what color and style they had chosen for their daughter's first public sexual exposure. SONOMA NAO KO(instructions from the School had been to bring no luggage or personal belongings other than personal toiletries, so there was little to unpack. Once toothbrushes and razor had been deposited into a drawer, and every student had received the same command, as no one had any idea who would be chosen to be the first student entering he knew Sex style program. Like my best friend, Shikoku (I had been granted a special long weekend with my parents, to have an opportunity to think about what this new study commitment was involving. Whoever would be chosen, would become very popular, both inside the school, but also, on the media. Shikoku had been so excited about it, and eager to know who would be chosen. It was not my case. I was unsure how it would affect our lives, and the life of the person chosen. And changes always made me a bit frightened. We all had just begun to look around when the door opened and a beautiful young teacher came in the classroom, her steps echoing on high heels. Shikoku giggled, and excitedly whispered to me :"Did you see ? She's wearing heels ! No teacher is allowed to do that. I'm sure the person chosen is among us!" It was easy to see just how beautiful she was because she was nearly flawless. Her attire was oddly, making me think of what I was made to wear under my school uniform that peculiar day : a black garter belt, sheer stockings, and black lingerie set. I knew Shikoku had her parents offer her some lingerie too. Surely most of the girls did this day." Ohayou Class 2-C," said Miss Yuri speaking for the recording. "As I was saying a few minutes ago this class has been selected to be the first to trial the New Style Sex Education Process and one of you has been chosen as the very first candidate." she paused, smiling pleasantly and looking again around the room. "I will call out a name. That person will come to the front of class. I shall then ask that student to remove their outer clothing and stand before you in their underwear." Yukari Yukon was one of the most stunning women that I had ever seen, but even after a year, her beauty was mesmerizing me. Her long black hair hung unbound down to the middle of her back. She was petite, with small pear shaped breasts capped by erect nipples perking through her silk white blouse. Most shocking of all to me, was her complete show of her lovely, shaped and soft legs." Oooh I'm so excited ! Who is it you think they chose ?" babbled Shikoku to me. But I could barely hear her, because Miss Yuri gaze was stuck on me. Her beautiful face smiling such a way a shiver ran through my spine, and I knew just before she said it :"Sonoma NATO, please come up here." The silence struck on me, as every gaze turned onto me, and Shikoku stared at me open-mouthed, in excitement and confusion. I thought my heart would explode in my chest so much it was drumming. Blood hammering to my tempts. My Face instantly flushed up a charming pink-reddish blush, as I stood up, holding myself to the table to help. And Saluted, with the modesty bow, hands crossed over my lower belly. My dyed brown hair hiding a bit of my embarrassment." Hai, Yuri-sama." I responded with humility, and a trembling voice. With that, I turned and left the tables to step towards the teacher, and turned again, bowing in front of the classroom. Dozens of pairs of eyes followed me, plus the cameras." Wow. I never expected that," Shikoku exclaimed. "Do you think she has a nice body?" said another voice in the class. Slowly, and clumsily, I worked on the buttons of my schoolgirl top, and unknotted the tie. Then, crossing my arms, I pulled it off, in front of everyone, trying to not look at anyone. Face just totally flushed up. My thumbs then slid down my skirt, which rolled and revealed my young body, covered in dark sexy lingerie, barter belt, stockings. I stood frozen like this after I disrobed... and barely looked forward. With my dress puddled around my ankles, I realized I was a sight to behold. At seventeen I was an average tall girl with dyed brown hair that surrounded my angelic face like a halo. There was a lot of angelic about my body. I was tanned and slender, with firm rounded breasts, a narrow waist, and sweetly flared hips. A well trimmed tuft of hair only slightly darker than that on her head was visible through a tiny pair of dark panties that were completely inadequate to hide the prominent lips of my virgin cunt. All of this was supported by two of the shapeliest legs people might have ever seen.(YUK ARI YUKON(watched entranced as the beauty stood, flushed prettily and slowly made her way to the front of class. Nervously, as was to be expected, she stripped, to reveal a very sexy set of black underwear. She lowered her head, too embarrassed to look at her classmates. I knew we had picked the perfect girl, physically. I was confident that mentally and in her sexual preferences we would have a model student and teaching aid here. Picking up the parcel from beside the lectern I opened it and took out a pair of black patent four inch high-heeled pumps. They had a Mary Jane strap across the top of the foot. I clicked across to Sonoma and squatting beside her, told her to raise each foot in turn. I removed her indoor soft school shoes and slipped her feet into the tall heels. She rose up in height and the need to keep balance altered her posture. I buckled the straps closed and took away her other shoes. Then I stood behind her and rested my hands on her bare hips.“Thank you very much, Sonoma-san. Now. Everybody. I would like you to welcome Sonoma NATO and congratulate her on being chosen. I want you to all support her and be kind and generous towards her. She is going to experience a very great number of new things and I want you all to experience them with her, so please behave positively. Girls, especially those who are her friends, please be close to her and help her out in any way she needs and asks.” I paused, looking around the room, my fingers gently caressed the girls skin, not to be sensual but to simply give her human contact and empathy.“Now, Sonoma-san. I know this is a surprise and quite an ordeal, but first please hold your hands behind your back so that your classmates can properly see your body. Then, raise your head. I want you to look around the class and meet everybody’s gaze. There is no need to be shy or ashamed. You are very pretty and have a lovely figure. Now, everyone, put your hand up if you think Sonoma has a great body.” Every single person in the room raised an arm. I did as well and with a smile I saw the camera-woman, Tsunami Memo, at the back of class raise a finger and give me a smile.“There, Sonoma-san. Look how everyone is supporting you. Now, our first discussion issue. Shoes. You’ll all see that I and Sonoma are wearing heels. These are normally forbidden in school for teachers and students but because of this special program I have been given dispensation to permit anyone who wants to wear them both in school and to and from home to be allowed to. Of course, I immediately included myself in that.” I gave them all a smile and there was a light chuckle around the room. I shifted my hands off NATO’s hips and slowly moved them to clasp her wrists, holding her hands behind her back. Furthermore, I was an inch or two taller than her and over her shoulder had a lovely view down at her superb cleavage.“Sonoma of course is allowed to wear them, but I am going to extend that permission to every member of this class. Furthermore, I am not going to say ‘every girl’ as that is sexist, so it is ‘every student’. If any of the boys feel they would be happier doing so, you are free to. We will come onto the subject of transgender and cross-dressing during this program and I want to offer an environment of complete freedom of expression here. No-one will be criticized or ridiculed for any reason. As regards the shoes, if you only want to wear them in school and travel to home in your flat shoes you’ll only need the one indoor pair. If you want to wear them to and from home as well, you’ll need two pairs and will keep them in your usual locker. Make sure you know which is which. Put a marker on them or use a different style or color. Platform soles of any sort are not allowed, pumps only, or what the English call ‘court shoes’ which I think is a very pretty name. You can also wear high-heeled sandals.” Again I paused to look around the room. I moved a little closer against Sonoma and my breasts pushed against her arms and shoulder blades. I rubbed them a little there.“Any questions on the issue of shoes?” No hands were raised. “Good. Our first lesson today is going to be ‘The Female Body; An Appreciation.’ Sonoma-san, please go to the blackboard and write down the suggestions the class makes.” I let go of her and stood aside to give her space and to watch her move. The class was silent, watching her, the atmosphere was heavy in the room, expectant.“Now, class. Raise your hand and make a suggestion of a single word only that comes into your head when you see or think about the female body.” A hand went up.“Rikki-san, yes.”“Soft,” the tall girl at the back (said.”Good. Yes. An excellent word. Write it on the board please Sonoma-san.” The class was silent as we all watched the pretty teenager write the word, stretching her arm up to reach near the top of the board. Her cute round behind mostly exposed by her tiny panties. Another hand went up.“Torah-san, yes?”“Ass!” the boy called out. (There was a peal of laughter.“Of course,” I said at once, agreeing. "Another good word. I am sure there is a lovely behind in this room that inspired you to say that.” There was more laughter, but it was good-natured. The list of suggested words went on. At first, they were physical:“Tits.”“Cunt.” A lot more laughter at these suggestions. I could see NATO blushing furiously.“Legs.”“Lips.”“Sexy.”“Erotic.” Naoko wrote them all down and not a single person in the room stopped watching her move. Then there was a change in the kinds of words being suggested.“Pretty.”“Beautiful.”“Gorgeous.”“Feminine.”“Curves.”“Delightful.”“Submissive.” That was an interesting one. It was suggested by ISACA Mid (a girl I knew was a close friend of NATO and who sat next to her and her other friend, Shikoku.“Tender.”“Loving.” We were now moving away from the physical onto emotional concepts which was interesting… The list of words continued, and I asked NATO to underline a few of them. Then a bombshell from Shikoku:“Slutty.” There was a small giggle of laughter but not much. Everyone looked at NATO’s friend.“Slutty?” I queried.“HAI, sensei. I think it’s a word that describes NATO very well. She’s always talking about sex. All the time. She never stops. Fantasies. Things she’d like to do… or have done to her. I don’t think it’s rude in this context, she’s used the word to describe herself.” There was a stunned silence. Shikoku looked around. "Well... we are all being honest here, yes?" She made a valid point. "Yes," I agreed. "We need to be honest and open here, hiding things is part of the reason we are having this education program." I turned to NATO with a raised eyebrow.“Is this true, Sonoma-san? Is there anything you’d like to tell us about yourself in that regard?” Wow. This escalated quickly. In a good way though. I thought it might take us a week to get here… SONOMA NAO KO(been made to write all those words on the black panel with chalk made me more than just embarrassed. All those words were directly addressed to me. To the way I looked like now. My gestures. My appearance and the feelings I gave to others. Their fantasies also. Each word adding to my embarrassment and to a strange growing blissful feeling. I couldn't help it, and some of those chosen words echoed in my mind like a thunder roll. The tidal wave of emotions washing up my reliable, hardworking student part." Slutty" then proposed my best friend. I stopped writing. My heart drumming faster in my chest, as I looked up at the black panel, my hand trembling slightly. Why the hell did she tell that ? It felt like a betrayal of sort. She explained herself, of course, at our teacher demand, and I had to turn around, to confront Mrs Yuri's questions, my glance darting somehow towards Shikoku. I could feel the blush painting my checks, as I stumbled onto words, trying to justify this revelation about our girl's discussions." I... Yuri-sama... Shikoku. Was a part of this too. I mean... We have been discussing such topics, but only because we found two kinky books and magazines in the subway. We took those home and discovered their contents together... They depicted ... pornographic actresses, in various naughty clothing, and their. Fetishes. We just asked each other if we would like to try such things, or what we were thinking when looking at such pictures. Nothing so crude. I just told Shikoku, that. It made me feel a bit slutty when watching and discussing those pictures. My apologies, Yuri-sama." My explanation was confused, and my words didn't roll easily on my tongue, so I just looked down, hands crossing over my pubis, exposed in the sultry dark undergarments. YUK ARI YUKON(smiled at NATO warmly, offering comfort if I could. She was deeply embarrassed, though it was understandable.“Don’t be ashamed Sonoma-san,” I said. “Look around you at your classmates. No-one is laughing. Your friend was right. We are all being honest here and to talk truthfully about our feelings is important. It makes things worse if we hide them away and don’t talk about them. The thing I think that’s important is if you think her description of you is true. Are you slutty? If you think you are, what makes you like that? Would you like to tell us?” It was a little cruel of me to put the girl though this so early in the program, but I felt we had an opportunity here to push on and discover some things quickly that would open up the teaching process much sooner and faster if I could steer this around to the juicy bits now. It just needed NATO to admit to them and tell us what they were. SONOMA NAO KO(question of my teacher took me by surprise. I hadn't imagined I would be selected for this special student experiment. Nor that I'd be subjected to all my class comrades thoughts about me, standing in front of cameras, dressed in sexy lingerie and high heels that started to make my ankles hurt. I had never worn such shoes in my life. I lowered my chin more, trying to hide the blush of embarrassment on my face, as the camera filmed it all." Yukari-sama... it's not... I didn't say I'm slutty. Just. I felt slutty after watching those books. " I tried, to excuse myself and avoid the question that was burning my face. I could feel the glances of half a hundred of people on me, and imagine how hundreds of thousands or maybe more, would observe me on the TV. She waited for few seconds, and the awkward silence made her continue, on a low tone." It. It was thrilling Yuri-sama. And Shikoku and I had great time laughing embarrassingly about those pictures. I guess any person would have. So yes, guess we liked it. I liked it. It was a sort of. Blissful shame." she nodded for herself, trying to formulate her feelings with appropriate words. YUK ARI YUKON(the psychological profile the experts had identified in NATO I had hoped a little early questioning might open her up and get her to reveal some of her inner thoughts, but I realized I was being hard on her. She was still too shy, too unsure and probably a little too overwhelmed by all this to be ready to open up. I felt sure that in a week or two I could have her standing up here in front of her classmates and happily declare what kind of naughty girl she was and even have her bag them to do lewd things to her, but for today it was clear I needed to take things more slowly and carefully.“Thank-you Sonoma-san,” I said gently, touching her shoulder and giving it a little squeeze. “It’s very brave of you to accept this important position and we as a whole class need to make it enjoyable for you, so please relax. I won’t ask you any more probing questions.” At least, not today. I looked around the room. Some faces were shocked, a little. Some looked a bit unsure and perhaps embarrassed. All however were giving me, and their classmate, their full attention. I moved to the blackboard again and taking colored chalks, underlined the words the class had offered. I marked some in green, some in white and underlined some in red.“We can see that the words you’ve suggested for what comes into your minds concerning females fall into three broad categories. There are the ordinary descriptive words, which I’ve marked with white. Those words that are positive and supportive are in green. Red marks those words that I think we can all agree are derogatory or even offensive. I thought it was interesting that people suggested words such as ‘tits’ and ‘cunt’ rather than the neutral nouns ‘breasts’ and ‘vagina’, which is why I’ve put red under those. As the project continues we’ll explore both the supportive positive aspects you’ve highlighted and the negative ones. Those words will remain on the board, and we’ll be adding more to them as we progress. At the moment I think the three categories are about evenly balanced with perhaps the neutral ones being a smaller group. As we progress we’ll see how the proportions change.“Right now though,” I put the chalk down and wiped my hands clean on a damp cloth I kept for that purpose, “as our first class in ‘The Female Body: An Appreciation’ we are going to examine the naked female form. This will need you, Sonoma-san to remove your bra and panties, so please, in your own time, and when you’re comfortable doing that, would you take those off for us.” Then I suddenly had a better idea.“Oh, wait. I think we can do this in a more class-interactive way. Can I have two volunteers.” At once every single boy’s hand shot up. A couple of the girls put theirs up as well. I chose the first two boys hands I’d seen move, Alumni Yusuf and ISIGE Data. “Alumni-san and ISIGE-san, come up to front of class.” The boys did so. Data was a bit of a social creature, often boisterous although not what I’d call a troublemaker. He was grinning from ear to ear. The air was tense with expectation.“Your hand was first up Alumni-san. You get the choice. Would you like to take off NATO’s bra or panties?” His eyes went wide. “Uh…” he stared at NATO’s bust. A tit-man, I thought. His expression said it all.“Her… ah… her bra. Please. Sensei.”“Good,” I responded. “Off you go. Slowly, gently. Stand behind her.” The entire class watched transfixed as the boy took off his classmates' bra. Next Data, the loud one, got the chance to squat behind NATO, her bum right in his face, and pull her panties down and off, making her lift one foot at a time. SONOMA NAO KO(blushed as Semi-san fumbling fingers found the attachment of my black lacy bra and one by one undid them before shrugging the light material off my shoulders. My face burned as I held her arms over my revealed breasts. I felt so ashamed after finding the clasps unhooked the bra and slid it off my body. The class murmured as my breasts were briefly revealed before I moved my arm to hide my nipples. The class was a bit fixed and whispering with excitement, while I lowered my eyes and chin, trying to hide my embarrassment and flushing face. But my shock and humiliation was just beginning, as Mrs Yuri invited my other comrade, Catalan, to pull my lingerie panties down. The boys of the class grinned, as Data crouched down behind me, having a direct view and access to my butt. I had the impression even Yuri-sama grinned sheepishly as they all stared at me standing in my sexy underwear, trying to maintain my modesty. I could see the men staring at me. How much further was this going to go? I soon found out. Keita went to lean forward to grasp the waistband of my panties, forcing myself to make a quick decision. Not wishing to get ashamed more, as he reached down and quickly slid the tiny item down my legs, I stepped out of it, before quickly covering myself once more with my other hand. How could this happen being made to stand naked in front of all the class not to mention the cameras. I looked around to see all the boys in the class staring down at me taking photos. Even Shikoku was doing sol. They could get a good view on my blush, on my semi naked body, of the dark bush of my pubis hair. For an instant, and though it was a cultural thing in Japan, I wondered if I should have shaven myself smooth like in the erotic pictures of the magazines we looked at with my friend. From my semi exposed breasts, with their small aureoles and pointed nipples, to the untrimmed bush between my legs that hid the lips of my pussy. None of the men were watching the look of shame on my face, their eyes were elsewhere. I left standing like that for what seemed ages, heart drumming like crazy in my chest. Till I heard Shikoku say aloud "See ! Yuri-sama ! She's slutty like that ! She is surely excited to display herself like that !" YUK ARI YUKON(boys stood back though not before (I was sure) ISIGE-san's hand just drifted lightly over the girl's bottom with a small 'pat-pat'. I invited the pair to return to their seats, the girl's lingerie being placed on my desk. As I expected NATO covered herself and blushed furiously in shame. I was quick to move behind her and gently take her arms away from her front and lightly clasp her wrists together behind her back so that her belly and breasts were exposed to all her classmates. There was silence in the room. You could have heard a pin drop as the old saying goes. The atmosphere was tense and heavy." Raise your hand if you think Sonoma-san has a beautiful body," I said in an encouraging tone and at once (and to my relief) every single hand shot up including those of our two archivists. I raised my own where NATO could see it." You see?" I whispered softly in the girl's ear, the scent of her perfumed hair was strong and delightful, "You have not a single thing to be ashamed of. You're beautiful. Now, there's no need to cover yourself at all. Everyone wants to see you and enjoy the sight of your body, so now I want you to display it properly." Then I spoke up, addressing the whole room." As you can all see, the nude female form is beautiful. I don't think we could have chosen a more gorgeous young lady than our brave Sonoma-san. I want you all to please show your appreciation and support for her. Let's give her a round of applause." A hearty round of enthusiastic clapping filled the room for several minutes. It slowly subsided. "Now then. So that everyone can get a closer look, Sonoma-san is going to walk around the class. I want you please to keep your arms behind your back and walk back and forth across the front here three or four times then you're to walk down each aisle between the desks and come back to front of class and turn down the next aisle. I want you to walk slowly, take your time. The point is to let everyone get a nice close look at you. No touching now everyone!" I added, raising my voice a little. There were 30 desks in five rows of six so four aisles between them. NATO was to walk down each, turn at the end and walk back up, so four times in all. That way everyone would get a good look at her both front and rear. I decided to adjust her arms for her, getting her to fold them across the small of her back, asking her to clasp the opposite elbow in each hand." This way," I said in her ear, "Your hands don't hide that lovely bottom!" As she began to walk back and forth across the front of class it became clear she was unused to walking in such high heels, so I coached her a little." Walk slowly. You only need to take small steps until you gain confidence. When you move your right foot, plant it to thereof your left foot, and when you move your left foot, it goes down a little to sheriff your right foot. That way your center of gravity remains over where you are stepping and its more comfortable to take smaller steps. As you get used to shoes like these you can take longer steps and also walk more quickly. It's just a matter of practice." What I didn't tell her was that when a woman walked this way in high heels her hips and rear sashayed about, swaying from side to side, showing off her curves, one of the most appealing things about heels." And also, when you have done all four aisles between the desks I want you to repeat the whole process, but this time raise your arms and lace your fingers together on the back of your head. That way the class can get an appreciation of how the muscles at the sides of the rib cage pull up your breasts." I could sense the dismay in the girl at the prolonged exposure, but it was necessary in order to get her used to being nude. Today she was naked in her classroom. Later on in the program she'd be naked in the whole school, and eventually I'd be taking her in the nude to and from school through town. The education board had arranged a police escort of an officer for those trips, but I felt sure that NATO wasn't expecting anything more than sex-ed classes here in this room. My plans were much greater than that." Everyone!" I called out, "As she walks please note how the female hips and rump shift as she walks and notice how the poise is accentuated by high heels. Note carefully as well how her breasts change shape and thrust as she lifts her arms." She began to move about the room, the camera lenses and every pair of eyes following her every step. Quite a few boys had hands in their laps... She was a vision of beauty, her tanned skin, taught thighs and firm breasts jiggling just a little. As she walked away from me, I was able to appreciate the tight roundness of her superb behind. The only thing that marred the view was her dark bush of pubes. I was going to deal with that next. SONOMA NAO KO(wasn't too much longer, and I heard every lead of Yuri-san, blood drumming at my tempts, as I finally dared to walk in the nude in the alleys of the classroom. Each pair or eyes glued on me, in addition to the very silent and focused people filming it. I struggled to get my step quiet and light while walking, but I was so nervous, so tensed I could feel knots forming in my belly, as shame flooded me up like a tsunami. Now I was showing everything. Well, I was showing before too, but now I didn't have the panties on at all. The only thing I had were my shoes, stockings and garter, which kind of framed my naked pussy and ass. I walked and in the distance, I saw a clearing coming up, and it looked like there were a lot of people there. I was going to walk right into an alley of students and let them see me naked. Furthermore, I felt humiliated to be showing off my naked body, but I was overwhelmed by the duty somehow to be an exemplar student in this new program. So, I strutted my stuff along the path, wiggling my naked ass, letting my pussy wink at everyone and I noticed Shikoku had a smile on her face all the time. I finally made it to the back of the class and everyone stopped to stare at me. Mrs Yuri told me to keep walking through the class, and to adjust my hands behind my head this time. She wanted to be sure I was seen by many, and I thought that I would be doing more than walking around almost naked. I walked to the middle of the class of students and everyone could see I was like any Japanese girl. With a bush of hair on my pubis, and in my armpits. I stopped and waited for someone entered the class nearly discreetly. That person carried a bag in the assistance, and my heat froze as I thought I just saw... her bring out 2 sets of handcuffs. That couldn't be that. Then, I felt her doing something with my ass cheeks. It felt like someone was writing on me, but I wasn't sure. I glared very consciously to the side, to note I stopped near Shikoku, who grinned, hidden behind me from Mrs Yuri's vision, with a black marker in hand. But also, she was daringly naughty. She took her time and every so often, she would dip her finger into her panties, under the table to rub her clit. Once she finished writing or whatever she was doing on my ass, she stopped. She said nothing, and placed the marker back in her bag, before nudging me to keep walking. I was trembling slightly, wondering what she'd have written on my lower back. And I resumed my walk, stepping back to the center desk, closely Yuri-san, face flushed as never, heart beating like in a rock concert.

The Extraordinary Education of Sonoda Naoko [Opale & Haibane]|rating:3.0

Scion_ The Rise of the modern age Gods (Character thread)

(Elizabeth Johnson Age: 17Gender: Female Personality: She is a loudmouth girl, she loves to be as loud as she could as often as she can. She loves to just have fun weather is by music or anything proposed to her. She isn’t afraid of taking risks and can quickly become well known in school if she wants to be. However, when she has a bow in her hands she is quite different, she is calm and collected she is very quiet and puts all her concentration on her shot. Likes: Archery, Swimming, Skating, Surfing, Sex, Sushi, Anime, Music, Rock, Singing. Dislikes: Being restrained, Bullies, People who take advantage of others. Kinks: Rough play, Name calling, Bondage, Masochism. Limits: Gore, More, Scat, Water play, Bestiality Bio: She was born in Miami, ever since little she showed a fascination for music and swimming. Her mother being a goddess thought her everything she knew, but somehow she could not tame the loud child, until she found archery. Nobody knew why but Archery always calmed Eliza down and she loved it. Slowly Elizabeth calmed down and attended school as she practiced at her house while trained by her mother in the use of the crossbow. Now with a new school opening up her mother made her go there to see if she could actually pass off as a human being as different as she was. Calling: Gothic Archer Pantheon: The Dodekatheon (Greek Gods)Nature: Gallant God: ArtemisAttributesStrength: XX Dexterity: XXXXX (Epic 2)Stamina: XXXXCharisma: XXX Manipulation: Appearance: XXXX (Epic 1)Perception: XXX (Epic 2)Intelligence: Wits: XXX Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics: xxx0Animal Ken:Art:athletics: xxx0Awareness: xxx Brawl:Command:Control:craft:xx0Empathy: xxx0Fortitude: xxx Integrity:Investigation:Larceny:0Marksmanship:xxxxxMedicine:Melee: xxxxOccult: politics:Presence: xx Science:xx Stealth: xxx0Survival: xxx Thrown:Birthright Relic (5)- Sword/Bow Mentor (2)KnacksArete 2 (Marksmanship)Health 2 Blessing of Health/Curse of Frailty Health 1 Assess HealthBoonsUntouchable Opponent Trick Shooter Come Hither Predatory FocusSubliminar WarningVirtuesExpression: intellect: xx Valor: xxx Vengeance: xxx Willpower {}{}{}{}{}{}Soak=2 B= 4 A=Dodge DV= 8Parry DV= 6ArmorWeaponHer weapon it's a bow that transforms into a blade. The bow itself it is sealed inside a small necklace on her neck that can transform into a bow or a sword. Bow Side: Account= +1 DMG= +2L Range= 45 Speed 5Blade Side: Account=0 DMG= +4L Defense= +2 Speed 5Legend3/9Xp: 0/15 (Wattage:17Gender:Female Personality:Tabitha is a. . . Complicated girl. Overall she's a good person. A pacifist at heart, a lover of the arts, and overall empathetic individual. She knows that she has an unnatural attractiveness, and tries her best not to abuse it in everyday life, after seeing the damage her mother did to her father's heart and mind. Still. . The temptation is always there, and she has let Fate tempt her into using it once or twice. Tabby cries about it over ice cream and stuffed animals after the fact, sometimes. Likes:Flowers, 'pet' animals, cooking, clothes/costumes, authority/father figures Dislikes:'Dirty' things, dangerous animals, manipulative people, immature people Kinks:Strong men and women (Preferably men), older men, being dominated, costumes/uniforms (wearing), anal. Limits:Watersports/Scat, Gore, More. Bio:While being born into wealth is nice, being born into a broken family isn't. Her father was the founder of a multi-billion dollar corporation known the world over for developing military technology, as well as a former marine. Her mother was a beautiful woman who just happened to be in the right place at the right time, to catch her father's eye. Of course, she's also a damn Goddess. Aphrodite is well-known for picking strong and successful men to be her consorts, and stayed with Richard Matt for over a year, giving birth to a healthy baby girl. Then she promptly ran away to Tokyo to seduce a famous artist. Then New Delhi to find a guru. Then the Himalayas to be the simple lover of a mere shepherd. And so on and so forth, much to her father's dismay. One doesn't simply FORGET about Aphrodite though, as Mr. Matt proved by spending the next 17 or so years jet-setting around the world trying to find her. As such Tabby grew up mostly in the care of various babysitters and nannies, only seeing her father for short periods at a time in-between his trips around the world. Probably explains her daddy issues, to be honest! After seeing how her mother hurt her father, Tabby vowed that if she grew up to be a beauty she wouldn't do the same thing to people! Gosh, she hated her mother. . Except. . Well who can stay mad at Aphrodite? She's just so sweet and pretty, after all. Sometimes she'd even get presents mysteriously dropped off at her home, with notes from 'Mommy'. Tabby decided NOT to share this with her dad, since that would probably only make him more unstable. Tabby grew up going through private schools, growing more and more popular the more time passed. Soon people were signing her up for clubs and student body elections without her permission, insisting she'd be perfect for everything. Why would she want to be class president AND a cheerleader, when she could be gardening or cooking. Worse still were the endless stream of suitors, male and female. Hormones plus supernatural beauty equals a lot of trouble for poor Tabby, as she was relentlessly followed around by various crowds. It was all very stressful, even the teachers started getting involved. . Not that Tabby minded them. She actually gave in to one or two of the teachers, before realizing that this was probably a terrible idea. When the invite to the new school arrived, she jumped at the chance to have a fresh start. Here she'd try to do a better job at keeping to herself and not losing control. Well. . Unless some of the seniors and teachers were REALLY nice and cool. . WAIT NO! Calling:Artistic Beauty Pantheon:DodekatheonNature:Pacifist God:AphroditeAttributesStrength: Dexterity: XXXX / (Epic 2)Stamina: XX Charisma: XXX Manipulation: XXX Appearance: XXXXX / (Epic 2)Perception: XXX / (Epic 1)Intelligence: XXX Wits: XXX / (Epic 1)Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics: X0 Animal Ken: X0 Art: XXXxPaintingAthletics: XXX Awareness: Brawl:Command:Control:craft: XXX Cookingx0 Empathy: XXX Fortitude:0 Integrity: XXX Investigation: XX0 Larceny: Marksmanship:Medicine: XXX Melee:Occult: XX Politics: X0 Presence: XXX Science:xx Stealth:Survival:Thrown:Birthright Relic 3 "Pocket Wardrobe" : This is a pretty amazing trinket Tabby found on her 16th birthday. At first glance it's a fairly ornate silver compact with a seashell traced into the outer cover. Opened normally it can indeed be used for makeup, but it has a secondary function. When the clasp is twisted backwards to open it, the insides disappear to actually allow Tabby to reach in and pull out damn near any item of female clothing she can think of. Rather handy, and it clears up room in her closet for her army of beloved stuffed animals and moments! Relix 2 "Wedding Ring" : This gold ring is the very wedding ring that Aphrodite wore to her wedding with Tabby's father. Though the relationship only lasted a little over a year, the ring was blessed with more than a little magic, always fitting Tabby perfectly. It grants access to the Fertility and Health Purview. KnacksOmnidexterityCat's Grace Center of Attention Lasting Impression Refined Palate Social ChameleonBoonsHealth 2Fertility 2Arete (Athletics) 2VirtuesExpression 3Intellect 3Valor 1Vengeance 2Willpower 6: [ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]Soak2 Bashing, 1 LethalArmorLegend4 (16 / 16)XP Tracker-Chapter One: 7 XP Gained Zero XP Spent (Michelle Harrison Age: 18Gender: Female Personality: Happy-go-lucky Likes: Trying out new things, driving her motorcycle, exploring life, playing pranks Dislikes: People who are mean and cruel, people without a sense of humor Kinks: Nurses, bunny girls, prefer F/F but will also do F/Limits: Mutilation, bodily waste, soul stealing Bio: Michelle always seemed to have a knack for keeping at the very edge of trouble without getting sucked in, although people never seemed to be able to tell why. She always approached the world with a carefree and optimistic attitude, which has worked out pretty well for her so far. Of course, once or twice, she's gone too far. She probably wouldn't be here if she could just learn to behave. From what she could tell, though, her father more suggested her coming to Miami both as a reward to enjoy the beautiful atmosphere, and for a chance to prove herself and help those Scions who didn't yet have the talents which they shared. Calling: Happy-go-lucky prankster Pantheon: Yankee Nature: Gambler God: Br'er RabbitAttributesStrength: 2 (Epic 1)Dexterity: 5 (Epic 1)Stamina: 3 (Epic 1)Charisma: 2Manipulation: 5 (Epic 1)Appearance: 4 (Epic 1)Perception: 2 (Epic 1)Intelligence: 3 (Epic 1)Wits: 2 (Epic 1)Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics: 1Animal Ken: 1Art:athletics: 3*Awareness: 3Brawl:Command: 1Control:x Motorcycles: 3Craft:xx*Empathy: 3Fortitude: 1Integrity: 1*Investigation: 1*Larceny: 3Marksmanship:Medicine:Melee:Occult: 1Politics:Presence: 3Science:x Computers: 1x*Stealth: 3*Survival: 1Thrown:Birthright Creature 5, Relic 2: Thunderbird summoned by feather that can be resurrected by electrocuting the feather. Relic 3: Lucky Rabbit's Foot Necklace (Channels the Animal and Chaos purview, Allows a reroll once a day)Knacks Strength: Making it look easy Dexterity: Cat's Grace Stamina: Damage Conversion Manipulation: Gods' Honest Appearance: Perfect Actor Perception: Telescopic Senses Intelligence: Telepathy Wits: Meditative FocusBoonsAnimal Communication, Eye of the StormVirtuesConviction 3 Duty 1 Intellect 4 Valor 1Willpower 9SoakBashing 4 Lethal 3 Aggravated 1ArmorLegend4 (15/16) Name: Kelly Dealing(17Gender: Female Personality: Kelly is sweet and friendly, but don’t get her riled! Likes: Tall boys. (Better yet, boys confident enough to talk to her whether they’re tall and handsome or short and fat.) Jewelry. Weapons. Hard, rewarding work. Motorcycling. Dislikes: Angry canines scare her. She is also Lara of frat boys, but figures they’re less dangerous than dogs. She doesn’t like to be idle, and she looses some respect for people who spend too much time idle. Especially sunbathers. (she had a phase growing up where she fancied she—as the student of dwarves—might also turn to stone in the sunlight.) She isn’t prone to initiating violence, but she won’t accept an insult against her mother. Kinks:Limits:Bio: Kelly never knew her father, and her mother Sandra Dealing worked hard in a factory to make ends meet, pulling a lot of overtime, partially to make sure Kelly could go to a private school instead of the gang-infested neighborhood where they lived. Spending entirely too long at home alone at entirely too early an age, Kelly started sliding out to play out of boredom while the babysitter was upstairs with her boyfriend, ignoring her completely. Kelly usually avoided the open grate into the old sewers, but one day a wild dog chased the little girl into the sewers. She ran into the dark ‘til she couldn’t see a thing, but still the barking of the terrible dog echoed after her. Then she heard a sharp crack and a yelp and the dog fled from the tunnels.“That’ll learn ye,” a gruff voice spoke, and she fell to her knees crying.”Here now, little one,” a strong man, but very short, picked her up and held her, stroking her hair. “You did well. You were strong when you needed to be. You’re safe now. Come to my forge, and I’ll teach you to be stronger.” From that day forth, Kelly was apprenticed to Dog the Dwarf. She grew strong and skilled in arts many have forgotten, from the forge to swordplay. The small dwarf community under Miami was her secret world. She grew tall, strong, elegant, and blond. Though she was sweet, most boys found her intimidating, as did most girls, so she was often lonely. Before her freshman year, she went to take some Technology Prep classes at a college and discovered their anime club. These cartoons were vastly more interesting too her than anything she’d seen on TV for quite some time, so she kept going off and on throughout the year. She made some friends there among an older group of guys and girls who played games. They weren’t so fit, nor so attractive, but they were smart, and they treated her like a normal person, which made her love them very much, even though they spent far more time than she could ever stand on their games. Once a week, though, was very interesting! Near the end of that year, she got a little boy crazy. A frat boy invited her to a party, and she didn’t pay attention to all sorts of people who’s advise she normally valued. Arriving at the frat in her prettiest dress, she found herself—not in a dress, but the guest of honor at a gang bang. Paniced, trying with all her strength to fight back against boys whom she would be able to overpower easily with just another year of growth, she managed to defend herself for a few minutes. Long enough for 5 gaming geeks with Kendo sticks to kick in the door and be promptly beaten down by the rich and the football playing. Her blood was on fire. A hammer smashed in the window. A man with a ponytail and an MIT style business suit tossed her the hammer. The moment her hand closed around it, she was a daughter of Hephaestus in her full power and half the bullies were down before her father could get his bad leg over the windowsill to join in the fray. Calling: Smith Pantheon: DodekatheonNature: Architect God: Hephaestus 11/1AttributesStrength: XXXX(2)Dexterity: XXX Stamina: XXXX(2)Charisma: XX Manipulation: Appearance: XXXX(1)Perception: XX Intelligence: XXXXWits: XXXAbilitiesAcademics: 1Animal Ken: 0O Art:x Sketching 1Athletics: 3 Awareness: 0Brawl: 0Command: 0O Control:x Motorcycle 1O Craft:X Automotive 1x Cooking 1X Electrician 1x Smith 4Empathy: 1Fortitude: 3Integrity: 2O Investigation: 1Larceny: 0Marksmanship: 1Medicine: 0O Melee: 4Occult: 3 Politics: 0Presence: 2O Science:x Chemistry 1x Metallurgy 1Stealth: 1Survival: 0Thrown: 1Birthright:Rate: Craft (Smith): 2Arate: Melee: 2Fire: Fire ImmunityKnacksApp: Lasting Impression Sta: Damage Conversion Sta: Self Healing: Holy BoundS tr: Hurl to the HorizonBoonsMentor 4Relic 2Relic 1VirtuesCourage 3Endurance 2Expression 4Loyalty 2Willpower 7/7Legend: 4: 16/16SoakBashing 8/6Lethal 6/4Aggravated 4/2ArmorKely's Thrice Forged Corset: This bare midriff and low necked adamant Corvette nonetheless provides the protection of a bulletproof vest (2L, 2B, Bulletproof) with no fatigue or mobility. It gives access to the Fire Purview. (Relic 2)Legend3 9/9Arithma: The hammer that can create and destroy. ACC (+1) 10DMG (+6L) 10L+2DEF (+0) 9 (DV 5)SPD 4 (Anna “Lugo” Barking-Dog (aka Anna 'Lodges')Age: 17Gender: Female Personality: Quiet and cautious, typically studies new situations and people before opening up. Can be open and outgoing if needed, Likes: Motorcycles, Dancing Dislikes: 'Bad folk', Gangs, Drug Dealers, Pushy people Kinks: Bisexual, Piercings, slightly Dominant. Limits:Mutilation, Scat, Torture Pantheon: The Signature: Trickster God: Loki Description: A woman of American-Indian decent (Crow Nation) with extensive tattoos on both arms. (Right Arm: Massive wolf in chains (Henri), Left Arm: A long monstrous serpent that extends down her arm to her wrist before looping back to bit at its own tail (Mudguard serpent, Magic Purview))Bio: Born to a single mother on the reservation, Anna's mother was run off by her family's bias towards her halfbreed' daughter. As a result she grew up in the gutter of the Dallas/Fort Worth area as her mother moved from job to job (typically 2 or 3 jobs at once) while trying to keep a daughter who seemed cursed to get into trouble at the very least opportunity. Despite this she learned a code to live by. Honor your word. Family matters. Return good for good, and bad for bad. She learned quickly she could lie with the best and play nearly anyone for a patsy, but typically she used her knack for guile to keep out of trouble and to avoid the gangs that ran the areas she lived in. Occasionally she would turn the tables on those who fleeced the weak and gullible. Then her mother was gunned down, and she was written off as 'wrong place-wrong time'. Lugo turned her knack for reading a scene, asking questions that people couldn't avoid answering and manipulating people to work. Soon enough she found out who was in the car that gunned her mother down, and who they were gunning for. A word here, a rumor there, and she had the two gangs moving towards a 'truce'. She managed to be there at the right moment, and suddenly. Her world changed. She could see the threads of the event as her machinations came to fruition. It was as if a sheet had been lifted and the real world came into focus. She had been good at manipulating people before, but now she was unbelievable. In ten minutes, she had almost all the gang members of both gangs shooting at each other. When it was all said and done, she found herself and one other standing in the ruins of the truce. Her father, Loki, who had come to help her though her revenge and ensuing Visitation. Of course, like everything else, there was a twist. She was the child of the least trust of the Air and to make things more interesting Coyote came forward to try and 'adopt' her, laying claim to her by distant descent. As best she can figure from the old trickster, she's his great-great-great-great-grand-daughter. Of course, he's as big a liar as her father, and herself, so it could all be along con on the Coyote's part. Loki has begrudgingly agreed to 'consider' it in exchange for her doing certain tasks at his direction. Till he makes his decision, one way or the other, he paired her with a foster family that runs a junkyard in Miami and sent her to school with orders to 'look around'.ATTRIBUTES (8/6/4)Strength: XX Dexterity: XXX [2]Stamina: XX Manipulation: XXXX [2]Charisma: XXX Appearance: XX Perception: XXXXIntelligence: XXX Wits: XXXX[2]ABILITIES (30)Academics: 2 Athletics: 2 Awareness: 3Brawl (F): 3Control: 2Empathy (F) 2Investigation: 2Larceny (F): 3Marksmanship: 2Melee: 2Occult (F): 2Presence: 2Stealth (F): 4Survival: 1Thrown: 1BirthrightsRelic: Ring 3 (Access: Chaos, Fire. Guide)Guide: Coyote Spirit: 3 Boons (10/10)Chaos X: Eye of the Storm, Hornet's Nest Fire X:Fire Immunity Magic X: Spells (The Unloaded Eye)Knacks Epic Dexterity: 2 Lightning Sprinter, Untouchable Opponent Epic Manipulation: 2 God's Honest, Takes One to Know One, Blurt It Out Epic Wits:2 Instant Investigator, Rabbit Reflexes Virtues: Courage 3Endurance 3Expression 3Loyalty 2Willpower: 6/6 [ ][ ][ ][ ][ ][ ]Health: 0/-1/-1/-2/-2/-4Soak: A:0/L:1/B:2Armor:Biker Leathers: Soak (+0L/+2B), Mob Pen -1 Fatigue 0Dodge Defense: (DEX: 3 + Athletics: 2 + Legend: 3/2 =4)Parry Defense: (DEX: 3 + Brawl/Melee 3/2 + Legend:3 + Weapon +?/2)Legend: 4 (16/16)Weapons:Crowbar (Macapá) Account:+1 Damage:+3B Defense: 0 Speed: 4Beretta Account:+1 Damage: +3L, Range: 20 Clip: 15 Speed: 4 Tags: P (Note: Hidden in her 'lair' in the junkyard)Gear:Beat up Indian Motorcycle Armor: 4, Mass:1 Man: +2 Health Levels: 10Biker Leathers: Soak (+0L/+2B), Mob Pen -1 Fatigue 0BP (15/15)Legend +1(7), Virtue +1 (3), Birthrights +1 (1), Knack +1(3), Ability +1(1, Favored)Experience: (Earned: 13xp, Spent: 12)+1 to Courage (Rating 3, 6 XP)Magic Purview (Special Purview, 3 XP)Brawl to 3 (Rating x2-1, 3 XP) (REI Kamila (Princess)Age: 17-18Gender: Female Personality: REI is a study in contrasts she is often times nice, spoiled, explosive, frank, energetic, indecisive, stubborn, picky, stingy and sly. She can come across as petty, overconfident, insensitive and arrogant, as she is prone to cheat or give insults, often acts out of unthinking selfishness, and is a frequent braggart. She believes herself to be sly. The authorities have called her everything from cavalier to down right irresponsible. Some claim she is a glorified treasure hunter. Though none would malign her family name. Discovered climbing at an early age. Realized she was only truly happy when she was adventuring. REI doesn't really respect school authorities. She shows extreme disrespect to tutors, and doesn't plan to have much respect for these new teachers either. Likes: Treasure Hunting, adventuring, cave spelunking, satisfying curiosity, Tomb Raiding is a way of life, Climbing, extreme sports. Enjoys looking at weapons but prefers to fight without any. Dancing, and singing. Practicing Kayas. Anime, Manga. She enjoys dressing up in different outfits and costumes (cosplay)- anything to pretend that she's different than she is for right now. Exploration. People that 'aren't teachers-that actually know the history and culture of a given place. Can listen for hours to someone who can tell a good story. Dislikes: Being told to study or to act a certain way. Being called a princess as an insult. Being compared to girls famous for being famous - like Paris H. Being unable to contact her blog or her readers. Kinks: Likes girls and guys. Limits: no blood, gore, scat, toilet play Bio: REI is a quite skilled martial artist and a prominent member of the powerful Kamila family. A Princess, a rich heiress, call her what you want. She's never really taken to her tutors and has decimated them one by one. Now her mother has sentenced her to public school. She was raised to be an aristocrat from birth and enjoys seeking adventures around the world. She resents her mother for sentencing her to public school. Furthermore, she has an online blog which she journals to all the time talking about her adventures but keeping all the scion stuff out of it. Furthermore, she has quite the fan club. If you make even a cursory search on the internet you will find REI Kamila's name all over the place. REI sells travel books for teens off her website and Amazon to help fund her adventures. But she's rich - this is merely a way to do what she wants without asking her mother. . Her mother supported her endeavors until she realized that there wasn't a tutor that would continue traveling with her. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide (( (Calling: Adventurous Heiress/Princess Pantheon: Celestial BureacracyNature: Rebel God: Sun WukongAttributesStrength: 4 (epic STR 2)Dexterity: 5 (epic DEX 2)Stamina: 2 epic STA 1Charisma: 2 epic CIA 1Manipulation:3Appearance: 4 epic appearance 1Perception: 2Intelligence: 2 epic int 1Wits: 3 Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics:Animal Ken:Art:x*Athletics: 5 Awareness: 3*Brawl: 5Command:Control:craft:xx Empathy: 3*Fortitude: 3Integrity:Investigation:*Larceny: 3Marksmanship:Medicine:*Melee: 3Occult:Politics:Presence: 3Science:xx Stealth:*Survival: 3Thrown:Birthright lingerie vest (2) chaos -no fatigue no armor 2/2anklet (3) one to do, Add wearer's legend to DEX+Brawl, war purviewKnacksCrushing Grip (Scion: Hero, p. 126) -STR Knack. (Please See Divine Wrath)Lethal Damage when Clinching (please see Divine Wrath as taking it updates power)Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion is a fearsome wrestler and grapple not to be trifled with. When he’s locked in a clinch and has taken control of it, the character can not only inflict the normal amount of damage (see p. 202), but that damage is now lethal as well. A character can still choose to hold an opponent without inflicting damage, or he can choose to break the hold. He can even soften his touch and inflict bashing damage instead. The damage the character can inflict when his temper gets riled, though, is tremendous and often quite messy. Divine Wrath (Scion: Demigod, pp. 53-54)STR knack. Lethal damage is now Standard for unarmed attacks, Spend a point during Clinch to inflict aggravated damage. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Prerequisite Knack: Crushing Grip (Scion: Hero, p. 126) The prerequisite Knack enables him to inflict lethal damage during a clinch that he controls, and this Knack builds on that to awful effect. If the Scion spends a point of Legend during a clinch, he can make a single attack inflict aggravated damage instead of lethal. What’s more, his normal unarmed combat attacks now inflict lethal damage instead of bashing damage. Keep in mind that that lethal damage is now the standard damage he inflicts unarmed, regardless of whether he spends the point of Legend to make a single clinch’s damage aggravated. The Scion can pull his punches and inflict only bashing damage if he wants to, but doing so incurs the “Flat of the Blade” rule from page 199 of Scion: Hero. Untouchable Opponent - DEX Knack Spend a Legend point and Counts as double the epic dots for Increase DV for dodge Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion might as well be a ghost for all her enemies can lay a hand or a weapon on her. The Scion doubles the benefit that her Epic Dexterity dots add to her Dodge DV. She also ignores an amount of DV penalties due to unstable terrain equal to her Epic Dexterity dots. Only the normal Epic Dexterity bonus applies to the character’s Parry DV, though, and this Knack’s bonus to Dodge DV doesn’t apply if the character is merely hiding behind cover or tucked in behind a sputum like a lowly turtle. Only if the character is physically dodging the attacks that are coming her way does this Knack help her out. Activating this Knack costs one point of Legend. Its effects last for one scene. Escape Artist - DEX Knack If she is grappled, she may add additional automatic successes one for each dot in Epic Dexterity in her attempt to wriggle free. Dex +Brawl +Epic DEX automatic successes+. Escape Artist Automatic Successes. Spend a legend point to automatically escape from any bonds as long as she is not being actively watched at the time. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion can somehow slip out of the tightest bonds, the most cunning snares and even her opponents’ very fingers. Whether she’s tied up and left to stew in her own juices or she’s wrapped in a clinch with a snarling berserker, she rarely remains bound for long. When someone attacks her character with a successful clinch, the Scion’s player not only adds her Epic Dexterity automatic successes to her contested (Dexterity + Brawl) to escape, but she also adds an automatic success for every dot of Epic Dexterity her character has. Should the Scion victim’s player succeed on this resistance roll, the Scion slips free of her opponent’s grasping limbs and well out of his reach. Also, should a character be physically restrained—tied up, handcuffed, strapped down, whatever—she can slip her bonds with a divine grace that is nothing short of baffling. The player need only spend a point of Legend, and her character’s handcuffs come undone, her straightjacket’s buckles come loose, or her ropes slough off like a snake’s dried-out skin. The Scion can’t escape thus in view of witnesses, however, unless said witnesses are members of her own heroic Band or are Fate bound to her. Remote witnesses watching via camera transmission don’t hinder the effect, but even scrutiny of such footage doesn’t reveal how the Scion escaped her bonds. She just did. Body armor -Stamina knack Scion can parry lethal close combat unarmed at all times. Spent a legend point to create metallic armor that stacks with existing armor but adds Bash and Lethal equal to legend. Lasts for one scene. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion’s body is so tough that, even unarmed, he can parry close-combat attacks that would inflict lethal damage. If a berserker hopped up on Jotunblut or a thrall full of at tries to split the Scion’s skull with a fi re ax, the Scion can take the blow on his forearm and knock it aside without serious injury. (That assumes the character’s Parry DV is sufficient to cancel out the attack roll’s successes, of course.) While that benefit remains in effect all the time, the Scion can also engage a temporary one that offers even more protection. With the expenditure of a Legend point, a measure of the Scion’s actor wells up from within and coats the Scion’s body. This coating hardens into a gleaming, metallic armor that’s no thicker than a hair’s breadth. This armor has a bashing and lethal soak equal to the character’s Legend, and it inflicts a mobility penalty of only -1. The actor coating is thin enough to fit comfortably beneath one’s clothing, so it adds its protective value to that of any other armor the character might already be wearing. Natural armor from this Knack lasts for only one scene and disintegrates at the scene’s end. Girls Just Want to Have Fun - CIA Knack Spend a legend point and Get off with no punishment as long as Legend isn't greater than the scion's. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide This Knack, alternatively known as Boys will be boys, is a character’s trusty Get Out of Jail Free card. When the character gets into trouble with some angry witness or authority figure—be it the police, a mortal parent, one’s long-suffering spouse, etc.—he needs only shrug haplessly, grin foolishly or do likewise. (His player also spends a point of Legend.) At that, the offended party decides that whatever the character did wasn’t really that bad. The character gets a slap on the wrist, a stern warning or no punishment at all, depending on when he chooses to use it. This Knack doesn’t work on anyone with a higher Legend rating, though. Also, if the character wants to use it against someone with an equal Legend rating, his player must roll (Charisma + Presence + Legend) against a roll of the potential victim’s (Willpower + Integrity + Legend). Come Hither - App Knack Spend a legend point and yeah.... Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Some Scions are so beautiful you can’t help but be drawn to them, and a Scion with this Knack makes that compelling attraction inescapable. Whether she beckons across a crowded room, emails a picture of herself along with an invitation or sends a picture message from her phone with the text caption “GY AOH,” the object of her desire makes all due haste to reach her. The Scion’s player spends a Legend point, and she must single out one recipient at a time. The intended target must be able to see an image of the Scion, he must understand that the message is intended for him, and he must have a reasonable idea of how to find her. Scions whose Epic Appearance represents divine ugliness cannot use this Knack. Also, it doesn’t work on beautiful Scions with more dots of Epic Appearance than the one using the Knack. Wireless Interface - Int Knack Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide If the Scion devotes his total attention to doing so, he can mentally interface with an active computer without so much as touching it. He needs only be able to see the computer, though not necessarily the monitor, in order to communicate with it. (Also, the computer must be turned on. Anybody can talk to a computer that isn’t on. Same thing happens too.) The degree to which the Scion can program the computer or access its ?less is the same whether he’s sitting at a keyboard in front of a monitor or just staring at its CPU, though, so it behooves him to at least know his way around an interface. Mentally interfacing with a computer’s programming absorbs the Scion’s attention, imposing a -2 distraction penalties on him unless he also has the Multitasking Knack.((1) Five-Cycle Augmentation War (1) Blessing of Bravery Chaos (1) Eye of the Storm Virtues:Valour4Intellect3Harmony1,Duty1Willpower 7Soak3/2/1Base Vest Total (NRL) + Armour Knack (stacks)(1 LGD/lasts scene)3/2/1 +2/+2/0 5/4/1 +3/+3/0 = 8/7/1DV EPI Anklet UO activated 1 LGD/lasts scene Dodge 7+2=9+1= 10 DV normal dodge +5 = 15Unarmed Parry 6+2=8+1= 9 DV unarmed parry Armor:Brass Knuckles: Accuracy +1 Damage +2, Def +1 speed 4 (unarmed/use brawl)Lingerie Vest: Soak (+2L/+2B), Mob Pen 0 Fatigue 0Anklet adds One to DV. Legend4/16 (Mizuki HikumaAge: 16Gender: Female Personality: She is a total klutz, she is often falling down and injuring herself. She is well known to just walk and fall down without having anything on her way. She loves her older sister a lot and would do anything to make her proud which makes her get into the same trouble as hers because she convinced her to do it. Furthermore, she finds training to be something that relaxes her and is oftentimes found training or swimming. Likes: Exercises, Training, Running, Swimming, Singing. Dislikes: Rude people, Gross stuff, Extreme blood, Snakes (phobia)Kinks: She is rather inexperienced in sex. Limits: Gore, More, Scat, Bestiality. Bio: She is the daughter of one of the most famous porn actress in the industry. She has always being kept a secret from that part of her mothers life, and she is just told that her mother it’s on the movie industry which it’s half the truth. She grew up to be a beautiful girl that had many friends in school and was quite famous. One day she was reunited with her long-lost father finding out that he is nothing other than a god, and she understood another thing, she had a sister. She left home and searched for her sister which wasn’t that hard to find with her fathers help, and a picture provided by her. Ever since she found her sister and how cool she is she never separated from her. She always followed her around and did whatever she asked even though if that got her into trouble. Calling: Celestial Nurse Pantheon: Celestial Bureaucracy Nature: Caregiver God: Sun WokongAttributesStrength: Dexterity: XXXXStamina: XXXXCharisma: XXX-Epic 2Manipulation: Appearance: XXX Perception: XXX Epic 1Intelligence: XXXXX- Epic 2 Wits: XXX Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics: XXX Animal Ken:Art:x*Athletics: XX Awareness:*Brawl: XX Command: XXX Control:craft: XXXxxEmpathy:*Fortitude: XXXXIntegrity:Investigation:*Larceny: XXX Marksmanship:Medicine: XXXXX*Melee: Occult:Politics:Presence: XXX Science: XXxxStealth:*Survival: XXXXXThrown:BirthrightRelic(2)(PDA)- Does not require energy to function-Can be hidden in a small necklace she is wearingRelic(3)(Tattoo of two angel Wings on her back)- Gives Access to Health Purview-Treating of any wounds use Intelligence + Medicine-Add Legend points to Intelligence + MedicineKnacksCha 1- Blessing of Importance Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion is especially good at winning people overly making them feel special and wanted. By spending point of Legend and either sticking up for a person, calling out to him in a crowd or just giving him a secret smile, the Scion refills the person’s spent Willpower points for the scene. The Scion need not necessarily believe that the person is important or special herself. This Knack works very well on mortals, but it’less effective on Scions, who are usually wise to their charismatic peers’ ways. For Scion recipients, the Knack refills only one point of Willpower per dot of Epic Charisma the Scion with this Knack has. A character can receive this Willpower boost only once per scene from the same Scion. Cha 2- BFF Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Prerequisite Knack: Blessing of Importance (Scion:Hero, p. 130)A heroic Scion with Epic Charisma can help restored mortal’s sense of self-worth and empowerment justly paying a bit of attention to him and making him feel special. The charismatic Scion can even replenish measure of the same for one of his fellow Scions. Demigod Scion’s attention makes a person feel even more important, though, especially when the Scion goes out of his way to treat the person like a true friend. When the demigod does so (and spends a point of Legend), he completely ref ills a fellow Scion’s spent Willpower points (if that amount is higher than the charismatic Scion’s Epic Charisma). Should he treat a mortal with such affection, the mortal not only regains all his spent Willpower, as per Blessing of Importance, he gains an extra dot of Willpower for the scene. When that extra dot goes away at the end of the scene, the mortal’s spent Willpower completely replenishes again. The Scion can affect a person only once per scene with this Knacker 1- Predatory Focus Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion is a hunter par excellence. With a successful (Perception + Survival) roll, he can track his prey by scent alone or by almost-invisible physical signs. With this Knack, the hunter can follow his prey across any sort of terrain as long as the prey continues to flee and doe snot take significant pains to mask its scent or minimize the disturbance its passing causes. (The former entails such extremes as swimming a mile upstream in a rushing river or taking refuge inside a functioning hog-rendering plant. The latter includes little short of levitating or flying.) Picking up a lost trail with this Knack requires anew (Perception + Survival) roll. If the prey has Epic Wits or a Stealth Crete (see pp. 149-150), the hunter’s roll is contested against the prey’s (Wits + Stealth). Int 1- Wireless Interface Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide If the Scion devotes his total attention to doing so, pecan mentally interface with an active computer without so much as touching it. He needs only be able to see the computer, though not necessarily the monitor, in order to communicate with it. (Also, the computer must returned on. Anybody can talk to a computer that isn’t on. Same thing happens too.) The degree to which the Scion can program the computer or access its files is the same whether he’s sitting at a keyboard in front of a monitor or just staring at its CPU, though, so it behooves him that the least know his way around an interface. Mentally interfacing with a computer’s programming absorbs the Scion’s attention, imposing a -2 distraction penalty on him unless he also has the Multitasking Knack. Int 2- Math Genius Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The Scion is a walking, talking calculator. She can divide up a 10-party restaurant bill, so everyone pays only what they owe or calculate the standard deviation of oil prices over the last 15 years, all while holding an intense conversation about whether Republicans or Democrats are worse tippers. As long as she knows all the figures involved, she can crunch the numbers in her head with only a moment’s pause. She can also use mathematical shorthand and rapid calculation to estimate things like how many jellybeans are in a glass jar at the State Fair or how many titan spawn-possessed Civil War reenactors recurrently rushing toward her across the picnic grounds. BoonsHealth 1: Assess Health Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Dice Pool: None Cost: None The Scion can instantly, automatically assess the current medical condition of a single living patient in his presence. He can tell how many levels of damage the patient is suffering, as well as any physical addictions he suffers, any illnesses or diseases with which he is infected and any genetic defects that afflict him. Health 2: Blessing of Health/Curse of Frailty Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Dice Pool: Stamina + Medicine Cost: 1 Legend The Boon can take away a patient’s reproductive capabilities or restore them, provided the patient already has all the necessary organs. This effect lasts for one year per success on the activation roll. Used on a pregnant patient, the Boon can make her unborn child come into the World strong and healthy or sickly and deformed. The Boon can cure or create any of the following conditions: a physical deformity, a life-threatening birth defect, a chemical dependency, an illness contracted from the mother, physical damage suffered in utero or a non-specified immune system effect (representing a ±2 dice modifier in rolls to resist illness). Each separate condition increases the difficulty of the roll by one. A Scion can also use this Boon on an infant within the first 24 hours after its birth. Taiji 1: Five Cycle Augmentation Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Dice Pool: None Cost: 1 Legend The first art of Tail is learning to pass Qi to another being to augment his own supernatural force. The Scion concentrates, touches another character who is using a Boon or spell, and spends a point of Legend. This enhances the target character’s use of the Boon or spell as if his Legend were one higher than its actual value. For instance, a die pool that included the character’s Legend would gain one die, or the recipient’s Legend would be treated as one higher than its real value (for purposes of Boons whose effectiveness depends on the attacker’s Legend being equal or higher than his target’s). Shen can perform Five-Cycle Augmentation in series, each character passing her point of Legend tithe next in line until the final character receives the boost in effective Legend from all of them. This boost cannot exceed the highest Legend value of the participants, though, and it cannot raise anyone’effective Legend above 12. Thus, if four Scions used Five-Cycle Augmentation in series on a fifth, and they all had Legend 2, the final recipient’s effective Legend could not rise above 4. War 1: Blessing of Bravery Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Dice Pool: Charisma + Command Cost: None Intoning a benediction over a person or group prepared to engage in battle, the Scion bolsters their courage and determination. Every character on the Scion’s side of the conflict who hears the benediction gains a point of Willpower as well as two temporary bonus dots of Valor that last until the battle ends. The Scion may amplify his voice electronically, but he must be present at the battle and give the blessing live.(Intellect: XXXXHarmony: Duty: XXX Willpower {}{}{}{}{}{}{}Soak: 4L: 2A: 0DV:Dodge- 5Parry- 2ArmorLegend3/9Xp: 0/12 (Gideon O'Connell Age: 18Gender: Male Personality: Gideon is The Straight Man. That's not to say he's without a sense of humor, but he is darkly serious of the burdens placed upon him as a Scion and is going to live up to them. Likes: Libraries, Books (History & True Crime), Computers, Films Dislikes: Bullies, Suck-Ups, Incompetent People (And Air Na Not forbid if you're more than one)Kinks: Girly-girls, costumes & uniforms Limits: Gore, More, Scat, Water play, Bestiality Bio: Gideon O'Connell, son of GMA, was born to Marianne O'Connell, a professor of ancient linguistics. His mother met his father when he was a visiting professor from Ireland, and the two had had a brief relationship before the year Dad was there to teach ended...and half a year after he went back, out popped Gideon, who had inherited the natural intelligence of both his parents. Gideon was always a bright student in school, but at the same time, he grew up into a physically fit young man. He was no student athlete...but he wasn't the average nerd that got picked on, either. He was a bit awkward socially...but that didn't really stop him from liking things most teenage guys liked, namely girls. It was less than a year ago that Gideon found himself in trouble over his head, and received his Visitation. It came about when a dozen of the student body at his previous school - people that Gideon had pissed off in some way, shape, or form - had managed to put their differences aside long enough to try and ambush him and beat the tar out of him. Lucky for Gideon, his Dad just happened to be in the neighborhood (or at least, as much as a god is allowed to be), and he helped his son beat off the thugs. He then took Gideon aside, explaining the whole story of his birth, how he and his mother had gotten together...all the stuff about a missing biological parent a teenage kid wants to know. In contrast to some of his other Agatha brethren, Gideon did not respond in anger, but in skepticism - befitting the intelligence passed down by his father. Once everything was explained, though, then he accepted the truth - there was simply no other way. After that, GMA brought his son's divine nature out, and granted him a handful of trinkets that he had since put aside. A falcate - the ancient sword of the Celts. A Colt .45 that GMA himself had wielded in the Axis War. And a set of black biker's gear that would help turn aside blows. Taking his gifts, Gideon immediately set out on his divine path, knowing that he was now going to need to be equal parts warrior and scholar...for the days ahead. Calling: Righteous Warrior-Scholar Pantheon: Agatha De DanaanNature: Judge God: OgmaAttributesStrength: XX (Epic 1)Dexterity: XXXX (Epic 2)Stamina: XXX (Epic 1)Charisma: XX Manipulation: XX Appearance: XXX Perception: XXXX (Epic 1)Intelligence: XXXXX (Epic 2)Wits: XX Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)0 Academics: XXXXAnimal Ken:0 Art:athletics: XXX Awareness: XX Brawl: XX Command:Control: Xx Motorcycle Craft:xx0 Empathy: XX Fortitude: XX Integrity: Investigation: XX Larceny:Marksmanship: XX Medicine:0 Melee: XXX Occult: Politics: X0 Presence: XXX Science: Xxx GeologyxStealth: Survival:0 Thrown:BirthrightFalcata (Relic 5; Adds Legend to Dexterity+Melee rolls, grants Guardian, Justice, War, Speed 4) (.45 (Relic 1 - Infinite Rounds Colt .45)Traveler's Leathers (Relic 3 - Biker Leathers, +2 Soak, +1 DV)Knacks Strength - Holy Bound Dexterity - Untouchable Opponent; Roll With It Stamina - Self-Healing Perception - Broad Spectrum Reception Intelligence - Tactical Planning; MultitaskingBoonsBrehon's Eye Hero's Gas (Legendary Disenchant Gas)JudgmentVirtuesCourage 3Expression 1Intellect 3Piety 2Willpower6Soak4B/2L/1A (+2 to all when Roll With It active)Armor8B/4L/1A (+2 to all when Roll With It active)Legend3/9 (Kira UzukiAge: 17Gender: Male Personality: Kira is rather outgoing. He seems to move through life with an energy that seems to be humming just below the surface, even when he's calm. He's slow to anger yet once angered he unleashes with the fury of a typhoon. When he's seated drawing he's quiet and seen almost like a summer shower. Likes: Drawing, Cute Girls, Working out, Anime, Video Games, Dislikes: Wife Beaters, Corrupt authority, Kinks: Light DOM (top), Threesome/more some, Limits:Gore, More, Scat, Water play, Bestiality Bio: Kira Suzuki was borne to his mother A operate executive of a Technology firm. Growing up with babysitters and nanny's he never really knew his mother. As he got older he began hanging out with friends in malls and on the streets when he wasn't in school or practicing martial arts. Kira met his Father Susan one night when he was home alone during a rather nasty storm. The storm had knocked the power out then Susan was standing before him when the power came back up. It was then the truth was revealed he was the son of the Kami of storms and the ocean. They spent the whole night talking during which Kira was gifted a sword, a spirit cat named Rained and a promise that he would always keep an eye out for his son doing impressive things. Just a few short months later His mother was transferred overseas to a Florida branch of the firm. Calling: Artist Pantheon: AmatsukamiNature: Visionary God: Susan-oAttributesStrength: XXX Dexterity: XXXXX (Epic:2)Stamina: XXX Charisma: XX Manipulation: XX Appearance: XX Perception: XXX Intelligence: XXX Wits: XXX (Epic:1)Abilities(0 Behind the Ability for the favored by your god)Academics: XX Animal Ken:Art (Drawing): XXx Athletics: xxx*Awareness: xxx*Brawl:xxx Command:Control (Motorcycle):xx*Craft:xx Empathy:*Fortitude:xx Integrity:xx Investigation:larceny:marksmanship:Medicine:*Melee:xxxxOccult:xx Politics:*Presence:science:xxx Stealth:Survival:Thrown:xxBirthrightRelic:(Susana- Sky, Water)5Guide: 2KnacksLightning Sprinter, Rabbit Reflexes, Untouchable OpponentBoonsSky's Grace, The Wakeful Spirit, The Watchful Spirit, Water Breathing, Water Control. VirtuesDuty:2Endurance:2Intellect:2Valor:3Willpower OOOOOOOSoak2L/5BArmorBike Gear: 2BWeapon:Susana: Account 11, DMG 9L, Parry DV 5, SPD 4 (Ranged): Account 11, DMG 9L, Parry DV -, SPD 4LegendOOOLegend Points: 10

Scion_ The Rise of the modern age Gods (Character thread)|rating:3.0

The fall of Scyillya (open RP)

He had continued walking, observing the smoky village, "poor faeries never had a chance...." he thought to himself. He stopped at the sound of Gael's voice. Her mentioning of food had gotten to him as he stood there holding his belly, "Fine idea, meet me 300 yards north of the ruined village with three elks." Asterian then began walking north, holding a small fire in his hand for light as he walked through the darkened and eerie forest. As he strolled on, the clanking of his armor started to bother him, "damn armor" he thought, slowly melting his chest piece off. Immediately after melting his chest piece off he began gathering small pieces of wood and branches. Each larger branch he held on his shoulder and piled them upwards about two or so feet high. As he approached the meeting point, he noticed a small patch of land that was clear and open. He sat in a spot closer to the forest and threw the wood down with slight force. He placed his hands out in front of himself and a small circle of rock forms. Furthermore, he quickly began piling the wood in the circle in the most efficient way possible. Finally, Asturian lit the fire with a small flick of fire in his hand that he had used for light just a bit ago when searching for the campsite. Joy too looked at the sky, not noticing how dark it had gotten until now." Your quite right." She turns towards the Faerie, looking at her with sympathetic eyes, and with a motherly tone, she says:"Oh, honey you look exhausted. Don't worry, we'll figure out where we are together. Until then, why don't you let this kind man carry you while we make our way to the nearest village." She looks now at the man"As long as you don't mind Mister... Hmm, I never did get your name. They call me Joy by the way. I'd like to think that's because I always bring them joy." She gives him as wide a smile a 5.2" Faerie can. With all suspicion as gone as the day that had fled before the night. Though she worries about the young girl with them, she is also glad to have met a good kindhearted Human. Which sometimes she feels like that is something that is becoming more and more difficult to find in this dark time. When the new faerie had come, Claudia had moved into a sitting position with her head down and her hands folded in her lap. When the question flew at her, she simply shook her head, hoping the other would understand. Claudia listened to the faerie speak with the human who had found her, her thoughts found themselves turning from the conversation to images of her village burning. The faerie shook her head and a small whimper escaped her lips. Her eyes flew open, hoping the other two hadn't heard; she was usually stronger than this! Claudia snuck a peak at the sky when the topic of night came up. Claudia nearly jumped up right then and there when the suggestion of letting this man carry her was mentioned, what kind of faerie admitted that they ever needed help from a human? Not her, no way! Apollos smiled and bowed his head slightly. "I am Apollos, and I would be happy to help in any way." He moved towards the faerie on the ground but as he tried to pick her up, she seemed to pull away from him. "We're only trying to help and unless you cooperate we can't do that." Apollos spoke gently to her before kneeling and getting a firm hold under her knees and behind her shoulders before standing up with her. Once the faerie had settled into his arms, he turned towards Joy. "Where to? The closest village is about an hour's walk in that direction, maybe forty-five in we go quickly." He tilted his head towards where one could see the faint outline of buildings against the setting sun. Gael kept her pace into the woods with her bow equipped in her hands. Three Elks... I am not going to be able to carry those... She thought to herself out of Irritation. The sun provided an advantage towards her future victims. Her naked eye didn't stand a chance towards the darkening skies of Scylla, or so others thought. Mother, and father taught her a lot when it came to surviving, especially at night. Her pace slowed, while the forest began to speak to her ears. "Easy now... Gael... Easy..." she thought to herself as her eyes closed. The birds and crickets chirping through the air, while the leaves dancing to the winds' rhythm, eased into her eardrums. Nothing of importance yet. She continued deeper into the forest, setting a temporary camp. The wait for her game was now on. She sat in an Indian position waiting for the Scylla's lands to give her a sign. More rustling of branches were heard throughout the land. The sun gave a glimpse of light when she heard twigs breaking. Her eyes shot open, while she got back into her position with her an arrow placed in her bow. A deer searching for food was found in the distance, causing Gael's breathing to settle. Its body hid behind the tree causing her arrow knocked. The bow was still, her breathing paused, and her eyes were ready. Seconds flew by, and a subtle smirk appeared on Gael's face. The arrow penetrated the deer's throat giving it a quick death. She looked upon the sky, and it's lack of sun. The hard part has yet to come for the human. Three elks... I can hardly carry a deer...she thought to her self again. Gael sighed before getting her mind set on the hunt. She sat still waiting for her eyes to adjust to the night. Her bow was equipped with another arrow waiting for more prey to arrive, and with her look. They had. Her breath was once again steady, while her eyes followed the deer ahead. Her first arrow pierced the Deer's head, while the other missed the escapee. It took her a bit to find her last target, another smaller deer with freckles that were concealed under the night. One deep breath helped her guide an arrow to the deer's body. Her task was done... now it was time for to claim her prize. Running towards her first kill, a realization came to her... Deer weren't light. A quick roll of the eyes got her to look for the nearest vine. "This out of do it..." she said pulling the multiple vines from the tree. Her short sword at hand helped her cut the vines from its original habitat. Sweat left her pores from the work she had done from this hunt. "This should be easy." she said sarcastically to her self. She tied two of the thin vines into a braid, to help with their durability, and a quick tug helped her test out her creative work. "Gael... this is why I love you." she said admiring her work. It was a task tying all the deer's legs together. Her eyes closed, while she took a deep breath. Here we go Gael... She tied the vine to her hips to help her carry her prey. Her hands dug in to the dirt beneath her making her groan every step she took. Her legs trudged along with her hands, making her crawl like a predator. She gained enough momentum, to let her hands off the ground, and now it was time for to meet Asturian near the village. The smell of smoke gave another smile on her face, when she reached her destination. Gael cut the vine from her hips causing her to fall over. "I hope you can cook." she said with her face lying on the grass below. Her breathing ended being heavy pants, while her eyes felt heavy... "I really hope you can cook." she said again looking at Asturian this time." Asturian sat at his newly lit fire, taking in his surroundings as the sun met its final breath before nightfall. The ARI filled with sounds of the wildlife that inhabited the forests of Scylla. Crickets chirped, owl shooed, and bats screeched at high pitch sounds. The noises made Asturian feel at peace, not having to deal with the sounds of the city at dark with it's yelling, screaming, and crashing noises caused by constant breaking. Asterian had thought to himself many times while in the city, "is this what the world will end up like, no nature, peace, or serenity? Will it end up in chaos, disarray, and the diminished morals of human imperialism?" Luckily, Asturian always knew the answer to that question, "Over my dead body," he repeated to himself time and time again as he phased deep into thought. Suddenly, a thud caught his attention, "I hope you can cook." Gael said to him, and then again repeating herself as if she was in pain, "I really hope you can cook." Asturian immediately smiled at the girl and her prizes. He then stood and picked one up with his left hand, "Your third trial has been completed." As he sat back down, two stone posts rose from the ground, forming a spot to cook their food. He placed the deer on the posts, legs on one end, and head on the other, "we must wait a few hours for it to cook evenly." Joy had been deep in thought, taking two Faeries to a human village, one that may have the king's soldiers may not be a good idea. But when Apollos spoke, she replied"Good to meet you, Apollos. And though I'm not eager to find out what the inhabitants of that village think of Faeries. I'm not sure if we have any other choice, unless you know of any other shelter near-"She smelled smoke again but this time of someone cooking meat. And not far off either. She looked in the direction the wind is blowing." Apollos, smell that? Could be a camp, I think I can see the light and smoke of the fire too. I could scout ahead see if it might be someone willing to let us stay with them or at least you, and we can hide in your belongings. I just want to avoid the Inquisition at all costs." She's pulling her hood up concealing her bright hair. Now she was almost fully covered in dark blue and green. Thanks to Atmospheric Perspective, she should be able to hide out of sight a little better now." It's up to you though, what do you think is best?" She asked. Okay, maybe she couldn't have helped it but having to rely on a human to carry her was drawing on Claudia's last nerve. The faerie had squirmed in the man's arms as he had picked her up, her wings fluttered uselessly at her back as she tried to get on her own feet. When she felt he wasn't going to let go, Claudia simply lay limp in his arms. Apollos shifted the weight of the faerie in his arms, who appeared to be playing rag doll, so that she wasn't at risk of tumbling to the ground. When he was sure she was safe he turned his full attention to Joy." Good to meet you, Apollos. And though I'm not eager to find out what the inhabitants of that village think of Faeries. I'm not sure if we have any other choice, unless you know of any other shelter near-"Apollos couldn't help but think about the reactions some of the villagers would have if he walked in with two faeries, one nervously wondering what could happen and one nearly unconscious in his arms. He wondered if he would be capable of fending off money hungry merchants while still keeping the two safe when Joy piped up. He turned in the same direction she was facing, just making out the faint glow of a fire. Apollos considered the options, when he looked at Joy she had pulled her hood up. "If you keep your hood up, I could cover her up with my cloak to hide the fact that she's also a faerie." He offered, unclasping his black cloak from around his neck with one hand. He swung the fabric around so it laid across the faerie's body, concealing her wings and anything else that might mark her as FAE. Her smile on her face focused on Asturian. Maybe it was because the matter of passing thesetrialsshe was unaware of. Or perhaps when The male took her catch with ease. "Oh, this meal be such a treat, when it's done... My I can eat a few pounds at the moment." she said, laying her dirt-filled face back on the grass beneath her." I can wait a few hours... I'll be near the river if you need me." Gael said with lifting her face. The sweat left her face every step she took, while her clothing was drenched in it. Her hands helped her up making a sigh emerge from her breath. "I'll be back in an hour, or so." She said waving away. Her hands gripped her leather top while she gave it a tug. The sweat may have cooled her off, but the heat from the village still got to her. Her mind got sidetrack, through the horrors of the tragedy. The sights see-saw couldn't have been unseen. Bastards...she thought towards the men, in charge of the attack. It was unknown who exactly did it, and in her mind, She wondered the corporate. However, her thoughts changed when her eyes focused ahead. An unknown group seemed roaming through the dark depths of the area, caught Gael's attention. An eyebrow raised, when she confronted the three ahead. Her hand gripped her hips, while a subtle scowl appeared on her face. Why now...?she thought." You lost?" she said, while crossing her arms. Maybe a hello would have been better in this sort of situation, but her mind was focused on the river ahead. Asturian nods to Gael acknowledging her leave of absence. He stands and waves to her as she passes through the treeline swiftly. As he watches her disappear, he looks up to the sky, watching the stars. He always wondered what drove the stars to move as they did, whether it was the Earth's rotation, or the sky's movement. He thought to himself, "I wonder if anyone survived the raid on that village." He again clenches his fists at the thought of the soldiers he dismissed, not punishing them for their crimes. Asturian breathes fire in a broad cone into the air in rage, but soon forces himself to come to his senses realizing the risk of being found out. "The inquisition shall pay for their ignorance and greedy natures." She was a little confused by what Apollos had said. For the towns folk would have seen 5" tall people to be just as strange. But just as she was going to ask what he meant. She was interrupted by an uncivil voice, asking if they were lost. Joy turned to see an unkempt Human Female. Who was wearing drab leather garbs, with a bow strapped to her back. This looks to be a hunter, one who lives outdoors away from civilization. She thought to herself, they're usually more excepting of fairies than your average villager. And typically enemies of the Inquisition, even if a little socially awkward. Joy pulls down her hood, revealing her cyan hair. And flies up to her saying." We are lost, I'm afraid. We're looking for the Faerie Village. You wouldn't happen to know where that is by any chance would you?" I keep running into new friends! This has been a pretty good day so far. "You lost?" Apollos' gaze moved from the two faeries which he had been watching to the speaker who had just appeared not far to the side of the small group. He moved the faerie in his arms slightly in an attempt to hide her faerie features in case this was someone they did not want to run into. He looked quickly towards Joy, wondering what she was going to do, as she seemed like the outgoing and friendly type, when she pulled back her hood to expose her colored hair. Apollos moved closer to her, meaning to protect her should this female try anything, but before he could, Joy had already advanced forward and begun chatting. Apollos stood a few steps behind her. "I'm sorry, we didn't mean to intrude. We found an injured faerie, and we thought if we got her back to her village they could help her." He moved the cloak slightly to show that he wasn't lying and just looking for a reason to find where the faeries lived. Claudia could feel Apollos move soon after a new voice was heard. She slightly moved her head to try and catch a glimpse of the newcomer. Great another human, more humiliation. Claudia closed her eyes and thought about her family before all the bad things happened, wishing that she could just disappear. The scowl upon Gael's face turned to confusion, and the need to grip her blade arose when the stranger approached her. The Faerie's bright cyan hair caught her attention. It was a fact that she have never been up close to a faerie. Gaels eyes trailed from the strangers after hearing their story and her thoughts towards them became sympathetic once knowing they were indeed looking for a nearby village. She sighed once her eyes focused on the three again. How was she going to break the news to the group? The simple task of saying the village is destroyed, wasn't simple after all. "This...village was once occupied by faeries like yourself, but it was attacked..." she sincerely said towards them. Gael pointed to the direction she was coming from." The fire you see in the distance is where a friend and I are residing for the night. If you are hungry and need a warm place to stay, I would recommend going there." Gael said trying to lighten the mood. "If an escort to the campfire is needed, then an escort will be acquired." her fingers pointed at herself after her comment was made. She saw the face of the hunter become sympathetic. And then deliver the bad news. Joy asked some questions she had about it." Attacked? Oh no, by whom? The Inquisition, men of the evil King? Was there any survivors?" As she hovered in front of the Hunter, she turned to look back at the other faerie. To see how she was handling the news, and then she faced Apollos." We do need somewhere to stay. What do you think, should we camp out with them?" She knew she could sometimes be too trusting. So she thought it's best to leave it up to him. At the mention of the faerie village having been attacked, Claudia made a little gasp sound before turning her head away, facing Apollos. Tears threatened to spill over, but she closed her eyes to keep them from leaking out. This was the second home she had lost, the second home within years of each other. Claudia, the once strong faerie who never backed down from a challenge was now reduced to a homeless pile of deadweight as she lost the ability to hold everything in and tears slipped from the corners of her eyes. Apollos thought about what Joy had asked. True, they needed a place to stay and this was probably the one and only opportunity that would make itself know. This huntress had reacted well enough towards coming across two faeries and if worst came to worst, Apollos was sure he could come up with some way to get away safely. "I thank you for you're offered." He turned to Joy. "I'm sure we can get there, you seemed to be in the middle of something before we came anyway." Apollos looked in the direction of the camp, seeing the fire flickering before he started to walk towards it being mindful of the faerie in his arms. Asturian continued looking at the stars, noticing a small light passing through the air. "A shooting star" he thought to himself. At that, he closed his eyes and began thinking in a deep transient state. He thought about what the world would be like without the inquisition. Everything in peace, the world almost in a harmonious state in which no creature harmed another without just reason. However, he soon realized this to be impossible because of human nature. He knew that humans would eventually want to rise to power again and take over the most that they could put into their grasp. He opened his eyes and shook his head slowly, "When will those humans realize that they aren't about the natural order of the world around them." You are a creature among the kingdom of Scylla, a fantastical land in which the cities bustle in brilliance and wealth. The only twist to this overwhelming kingdom is the might of the Inquisitor and his unruly army, in which any sort of threat to their rule is oppressed and eliminated. The Inquisitor began his rule in the year 1583 AD, and obtained such rule by the might of his army. When the inquisition came upon the kingdom, many had no choice but to obey their commands and be forced into a life of servitude. Now, only a few decades later in the year of 1614 AD, the majority of the population has been completely brainwashed in believing that what the inquisitor says is law. Among the few, you and your group of mystical misfit friends are thrown in a constant fight to bring down the inquisitor's rule and restore the old way of life. There are many types of creatures in this group ranging from the smallest of fairies, to the largest of giants, each with their own abilities and roles in the cause for which they fight for. Your leader, Asturian, is a dragon that has gone through great lengths to assist in the fight against the inquisitor, starting the rebellious army two decades after the invasion of the inquisition.*************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************The rebellion had just begun two decades ago, founded by Asturian, a dragon that once returned from a trip to which he had trained for two years, came to find that his family was slaughtered for the simple purpose of monetary value. He began going on a rampage, flying over the city of Scylla and doing what he could with his efforts to bring down the inquisition to no avail. The time is now, two decades later, he lives in mystery, silence, and solitude from the forces that he once ferociously attacked on a day by day basis. Him, along with his small force of creatures have been at work devising a large plan to make a final blow towards the inquisition that rules over Scylla and release the kingdom from their overwhelming control. Asterian sits at a nearby pottery shop at the corner of Paris' crossing, observing a fight between a beggar and a thief over a piece of bread that had been left laying on the ground for several hours and had developed into staleness. He stands and approaches the two, holding a small sack of biscuits. He states in a deeply toned voice to the two, "Would you stop this insolent chatter over such an insignificant piece of bread." The two snarled at him as if he had activated their primal instinct of self defense. Asterian slowly shakes his head and looks at the two with a discerning face of pity, "I would assume neither of you would want to have some of these biscuits would you?" he says, holding open the small sack. The two immediately perk up and approach Asturian in a manor of regret and both ask, "may we have a biscuit to share between the two of us?" Asterian smiles brightly, "of course!", he chuckles and hands them both a biscuit before walking off. Asterian walks into a building built with redbrick and thick layers of mortar that had been poorly laid atop each brick. The windows too were poorly pocketed to the building and left crooked. When inside, one might observe that the walls had holes in them, from which you could see the neighboring rooms and privacy was quite a rarity. The doors were only sheets of fine fabric laid upon the wall to cover the doorway, and the curtains were non-existent. Asterian entered his room, located in the basement of the building, and a flat wall of rock rose behind him, sealing the doorway. The basement was in much better shape than the rest of the building, having flat walls and natural light pouring in the stained-glass windows that opened up through the bottom of the outside walls of the building. The building never seemed to have running water at any point of the day, however there would be rare occasions to which you would be able to get maybe a pint or two from the faucets on the walls to which there is no sink underneath. There, he waited for the arrival of his scouts that were sent out several hours ago and were expected to return within the hour. He felt an unwary air come of him, an eerie feeling of discern came about as the time passed and the thought of his lost comrades rushed through his head. He immediately burst from his room, the door again sealing behind him. Hurriedly he sprinted out of the kingdom and towards the cave from which he had originally lived. Upon arriving at the cave he found a very familiar scene of death as he looked upon his fallen comrades. The image was too much as he wept for several minutes before morphing into his true dragon self. Steam radiated off his skin as the surrounding air began to rise in temperature, a fire soon burst from the cave, and he soared into the air at blinding speed as he left the area and dove at the nearest barracks. As he drove himself through the roof of the barracks, he released a torrent of fireballs, smothering the ground in a napalm like fiery bath. He proceeded to exact his revenge on the troops located in the barracks and left soon after. The thought of his fallen comrades swept through his mind again as he rushed through the air towards the Forrest by which he went to cool down on such an occasion. The smell of smoke and ashes came from both behind and in front of him, giving a mixed notion of both accomplishment and worry. Asturian landed in the Forrest and observed the fiery plume from a distance and waited for any sign of what might have happened. His tail waved from side to said as he stands, leaning against a tree. His skin beginning to cool down, steam lessening around him and the fire from his nostrils dying down as he focuses on the situation at hand. The fires ahead of him die down as well, and he begins approaching the site of the disaster from which observed sever hundred feet away. As he approaches, he notices smaller than average hut like structures that had been singed and demolished. He began investigating the wreckage of the smaller than life town. He soon changes back to his human disguise, and his armor clanks against itself around his shoulders. Furthermore, he soon notices some Inquisition forces walking about the town and approaches them. Her feet trudged through the thick grass beneath her, making every step she takes a task. Her eyes felt heavy as the day continued. "Just one bite he said..." A quick toss of the outdated meat soothed her emotions. Whoever she was looking for was no myth as smoke emerged from the skies. Gael's eye turned towards the fogged atmosphere that smothered the forest. Something attentionally caused this... someone. Perhaps it was the man rumored through the taverns she stayed in? Her answer was clear when she heard the cries of a creature from the skies. Rage came from the beasts vocals as a shadow flew above her. Her travels led to this moment. Her subtle trudge turned into sprint, while tracking the dragons landing. "An elf.... a dwarf... heck even a vampire would have been easier to track... but a dragon... Good job Gael, Good job." She told herself as her sprinting lead her to the trees. The dense plantation of Scylla made it difficult for the young human, to see ahead. The short sword on her side was un sheath once she saw a figure in the distance. The closer Gael got the more anxious she became. Her momentum carried her through the trees until a loose branch threw her off. Her hands guided her to a branch below, helping her regain her momentum. Furthermore, her body leaped off the last branch as her eyes was focused on spotting her landing. The impact was absorbed through a simple roll, releasing stress from her legs. Gaels parts were faint as the beads of sweat dripped from her face. The figurine turned out to be a blond hair traveler. She said at the man ahead disappointed in her discovery." Did you hear the dragon in the skies' traveler?" She said as her hands were placed on her knees. Immediately, Asturian stopped as he had heard someone approaching from the forest, resting only halfway between the soldiers and the figure. His reptilian eyes still flickered from his outburst of rage as he stood staring the figure down. Asterian signaled his hands to the figure as though he were telling them to hide in the bushes nearby, "go" he whispers," hide in the bushes before you are discovered, for you are an outsider and might be subject to search and arrest in these lands due to such a status." His stance began to shift towards the soldiers again before walking off at them again, slowly approaching with caution. Asturian demanded for the soldiers, "What happened here!?!" To which they responded, "A group of bandits attacked this fairy village, we are...." Asturian interrupted, "Fairy village?" The soldiers began to regain their composure from the surprising entry of an officer, "ye-yes sir." Asterian began pacing back and forth in front of the soldiers, thinking of the possibility of survivors, "You two, return to base, I shall take the investigation from here. Take the roads, I don't want to risk the loss of more soldiers due to negligence, the bandits could still be around. I hope you know there was a dragon attack on your barracks, severe casualties and the building destroyed." The two soldiers recoiled at the words, "Do you believe he has returned sir?" With that, Asturian immediately commanded the soldiers off. Gael rolled her eyes as she backtracks to the bushes. I wasn't the one who burnt the village...she thought. The bushes concealed her presence as she placed her cowl above her head. Her ears tuned in to the conversation ahead while her patience was running low. The bushes in front of her prevented herself to see the guards and any subtle movements could have given away her position. The voices became faint as the last of the blonde mans words caused them to leaven. Her head peaked over the bushes as the men left. " My people can be gullible." she said with a smirk. One eye closed when she too her hood off. Maybe it was to prevent the twigs from piercing her eyes. "I am Gael of Tinsmith. A small village near Scylla..." her curiosity of the man in front of her increased after she wiped the rest if the twigs from her hair and Clothes." May I ask your name?" she said while extending her arm. Asturian quickly turned towards the man in the cloak, "Gael is it.... I have one question for you before you begin to request answers from me." He slowly approached Gael as he began analyzing the appearance, "huntress maybe" he thought observing what little of a bow he could see and the cloak that had covered her hair. After careful examination of this Gael figure he had been introduced to he finally recited a few words, "What is your alignment with the inquisition?" On the last word he drew a large great sword. Gael raised an eyebrow as she continued to look at the man ahead. Her hand dropped to her side when she sighed. "Let me just say, I am not a huge fan of the Kings... way of ruling." She said as she crossed her arms. The intimidation shown by the person in front of her caused tension. The hope of encountering the right person filled her mind as her hand settled on her short sword. Her stance lowered as her stomach began to turn. Maybe approaching this foreigner wasn't the best Idea for her." What of you? It would be hard to believe those men back there were actually men you command." She said increasing the grip on her sheathed weapon. Asturian listened to the response carefully, noticing no faulted in the woman's voice as it was said, "So you are a huntress..." He lowered his sword and held the tip of the blade against the ground and held the hilt as if using it to stand, but applying no pressure and standing upright." Ease your mind young one," he stated in his deep tone of voice, "You spoke of a dragon once you had spoken to me at first glance, what is it that brought you to this location?" His stance shifted as you picked the sword up and sheeted his weapon with ease on his backside. "Deer, Elk, moose... even goats. Anything that can settle my stomach, I hunt. Catch me on a good day and I may take a bear." Her sharp tongue brought confidence in every word she spoke. It helped her ease up the tension between the two. Her grip on her blade loosened at the site of the man lowering his weapon. A sigh of relief could have been an understatement for the matter. Curiosity filled the woman's mind when she heard the men speech. Young one? You don't even look older than me. His looks were deceiving when he spoke of her as his pupil." You are correct on the matter. Heard a dragon not too far away from this location, and I followed the trail of smoke here. My guess was he... or she was the one who started this fire." Gael's eyes roamed around the forest before she continued to speak. "I would be lying if I was saying I was hunting the beast. All my travels led me here, to believe the rumor of a dragon leading a rebellion. I came here to see if that rumor is in fact a reality." She said with her left hand on her sheath." By the way, you still haven't given me your name... Old man." She said eyeing the male ahead. He nods at the woman's speech and completely lets go of the hilt on his weapon, "Miss, did your rumors not speak of my name already? If so, then you should already know my name." He approaches not in an aggressive manor, but more of a patient step towards the woman, "However, you would be incorrect in assuming that I had torn this poor village apart. I would also be a fool if I were to believe those soldiers words about this village. For they are the one that had caused such a massacre of innocent blood." His voice suddenly returned to a more darkened tone and his eyes shifted back to their previous reptilian state as his fists tightened and his steps stopped. He then gave a healthful stare to the woman and immediately calmed himself, returning to a more human-like nature. "You, young one, have given me more hope for the cause you see in front of thy self," he states, smiling in a slightly blissful manor. A smokey trail cut a path through the forest as flames singed twigs and plants caught in the way. Thundering hooves could be heard echoing through the eerie quiet of the trees as Apollos passed. Living flames licked the surrounding air, taunting anything brave enough to approach. The fire horse burst through the undergrowth as easily as running through a clear field; he knew the town would be close by, it was not his first visit. Apollos soon found the end of the forest, much to his disappointment; before him was a flatten stretch of land that would come to an end not far from the town. One flaming hoof pawed the ground, leaving scorch marks in the grass before he pounded the soil further. As he ran, a small voice reached his ears"Someone help me". The horse slowed to a trot, ears swiveling to pinpoint the location of the caller. Apollos turned to the direction he thought it had come from, arriving quickly to a rockier area. He came to a full stop and scanned the area quickly. He would have overlooked the small fairy had he not seen the movement. Quickly, Apollos turned into his human form as to not frighten the poor thing before he approached slowly. When he felt he was close enough, he knelt down beside the fairy. "You called for help, are you injured?" He did not want to frighten her anymore then she was so he stayed as still as he could, hoping he wasn't too late. Sadness and anger ran through him as he tried to imagine what had happened, his eyes betraying him with a flash of fire against the hazel. The smell of smoke tainted the air but for Apollos that was a normal thing. Gael smirked at him, while he claimed to be Asturian. Her arms were crossed as her smile faded at the site ahead. The village ahead, was engulfed in flames. It seemed her assumption was wrong, but to believe the fellow in front of her was a dragon. It was nonsense. She kept her arms crossed. "You expect me to believe you arehimwith out telling me his name. At least give me pro-" Her mouth closed as the man turned back to her. His face.... altered, while his eyes reflect that of a dragon. His eyes locked onto hers, providing a clear picture that he was indeed the Asturian she heard rumors about. She quickly wiped her face as she tried to get the dirt off of it. A dragon in his human form was a sight to see to say the least, but his words were the something that threw her off. Hope. A subtle smile appeared on her face as flattery filed her mind. Gael's eyes turned to the village ahead. Her smile faded once reality hit. "What are we going to do about the village?" she said towards Asturian. His smile faded, "Sadly, due to the length of time it has been, I am afraid there are no survivors from the inquisition's attack on this place..." his fists ball up again, "however, there might be some survivors in the surrounding land, it would be best to search for them as quickly as possible. Those soldiers I sent away thought that I had fallen for their ruse, however, they know as well that they are liable to punishment for lying to an officer in their ranks." He looks back up at the Gael and smiles, "Umm mm, sorry for the mysteriousness, do you still require my name?" he says as the flames in the village begin rushing towards him, rushing into his body as though being absorbed like water to a sponge. Gael watched the smile on his face fade when she brought UO the village. Sympathy was felt towards the civilians that felt victim ti this horrid display of dominance. "I think that would be best." She responded towards his comment. Her fingertips brushed the tips of her bangs away from her head before she placed her hands on her side. What was to become of the travelers? She was hesitant, reluctant to move on area, and with the flames expanding to the forest they were in, her worries of her own safety increased. The more Asturian's body consumed the fire the less anxious Gael was. "It's fine. Your name is pretty clear to me... Asturian." She said out if relief. Her hands grasped each other behind her back wondering what was next for her journeys. "No, but I'm afraid I'm lost"Apollos stayed where he was seeing as how the fairy was not harmed, he wasn't sure how well he could handle something so delicate. He stood slowly and looked around them for any sign of where this fairy may have come from. Not far away the faint scent of burning reached his nose, fading on the wind but evident nonetheless; he had not come from that way so it wasn't from his trail. "Have you any place you can go?" Apollos knew a little about fairies, and that little bit told him that they didn't often wander off and get lost seeing as how they were usually close to nature. "You could come with me, I am heading towards the town." He tilted his head in the direction he had come from when he had first heard the call for help. Apollos took a few steps away from the fairy so as not to be imposing. He could feel heat coursing through his body as he looked out at the landscape dotted with settlements, and scars from past battles. The fire horse closed his eyes and breathed in the smokey scent he had grown use to, keeping himself in line lest he lose his form and startle the already startled fairy. Asturian nods at Gael's initial statement and agrees. At the mention of his name, Asturian smiles for a moment and begins walking in to the forest, "good to see someone that seeks the true path to freedom as much as me and my group." he pauses for a moment and looks up at the sky, "soon it shall become dark, we should remain here overnight, the inquisition might find my absence a bit discerning if I were to return in the middle of the night with a stranger." Joy had heard there was a Faerie Village nearby, and she had planned to go there, but she couldn't figure out where it was." Faerie Villages can be the hardest to find!" She said to Henry, her Beetle, as she drove him to continue forward, hoping perhaps to stumble upon it. As she was going on, she began to smell something aflame. She was wondering if there might be someone who would need some help. But before she was able to decide to follow her nose or not, she comes across an open field. What luck! She thought to herself, as she sees a fellow faerie speaking with a man who had started to back up. She directed her beetle to fly up to them, upon arriving, she gives them a large smile and starts talking at rapid speeds." Hi there! I was looking for a faerie village that I had been told was around here. But then I smelled smoke which suggests a fire, do you happen to know where either of those might-"Getting ahead of herself she now recognizes that the faerie is on her knees, which is a very strange place for faeries to be." Oh my, I'm sorry, are you hurt? Is something wrong? Is this Human bothering you?!" She turns to him and looks at him suspiciously. But seeing the sympathetic look on his face, she relaxes a little. He had no idea of how to start helping a faerie in this sort of situation, knowing him he would probably mess up and cause more damage because of it. Apollos was silently thinking of what he could do when a voice from behind him startled him back into reality. His eyes opened, and he turned quickly wondering who else could be out here. His eyes soon found the speaker, first seeing the curly blue hair uncommon to most people around here who mostly tried to blend into their surroundings rather than stand out, and then on the translucent wings behind her given away what she was. Another faerie. He was about to say something along the lines of a greeting, knowing that you should never ignore the FAE folk lest you want some sort of trick to happen to you, when the new fairy burst forward with a string of words. Thankfully Apollos had been listening, otherwise he would have missed what she had said since it had been spoken at a high speed. The faerie village? He tried to say that he assumed something had happened to it but missed his chance when the blue haired faerie interrupted. Apollos watched the faerie question the first, still on her knees, and received a suspicious look before it softened. He took a step forward before addressing the new arrival. "I don't know what happened entirely, I found her like this. She says she's lost." He looked down at the faerie on the ground. "Is there anything I can do to help?" Apollos was gratefully relieved that another of the faerie's folk had arrived since he knew next to nothing about how to handle a situation like this. The fire horse took a moment to glance at the sky which had begun to darken. "We should move out of the open, you never know what may happen at night." Gael followed Asturian with her eyes set on him. The sun began to rest, while the excess smoke began to fade. If it weren't for the burning village. The view of Scylla would have been enjoyable. However, it took a while for her eyes lay off the sun falling behind the Horizon. Her attention went back towards Asturian. Staying another night in the forest... how soothing she thought as her attention went towards her feet. Placing one foot in front of the other, Gael watched her herself walk among the dense forest. There was nothing much else to do for them, besides camping out for the night. Gael, Equipped the bow from her back, while looking at Asturian." Well If we are staying the night, mine as well cook us up a supper. Don't know how many dragons eat, or what they eat, but what I do know is this belly needs food, and I think now is a good time for me to grab some grub... Last thing I ate wasn't very filling." she said with a smile. Her eyes scanned the area for a place to start. " I hope you don't mind if I go out looking for some game?" Gael asked without eye contact.

The fall of Scyillya (open RP)|rating:3.0

Bridgewater Academy (Literate; still accepting)

Yes, here's another high school RP. As if we needed any more. Bridgewater Academy is a boarding school located in the foothills of the Chesapeake Mountains. It is about fifteen minutes from Cove, a small town about 3 miles from the coast. The buildings are built in light of the baroque era. ((Versailles is a good reference for the architectural style, as is Charleston College in England)).--School Rules--1.) Follow forum rules2.) Be courteous and respectful to other posters3.) Please, no killing. This isn't a school for demons, or other fantasy creatures/magic users.4.) Swearing is okay as long as it used with a purpose (in other words, you can't go around spouting off random swear words). However, it is greatly appreciated if you can find a more creative way to express your feelings.5.) Please post your "application" forms here.--Application Form--Name:Age:Year/position in school:Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country):Written physical description:A little bit about your personality:Pet Peeve:Favorite subject/subject taught:Visual representation of yourself: Name:Naomi Tanaka Age:16 Year/position in school:sophomore Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country):Her mother lives in Average, Indiana and her father lives in Tokyo, Japan. She spends summers with her father and winters with her mother. Written physical description:Naomi is about 5'4" and has curly black hair and green eyes. She is half Japanese, and so resembles the Asian ethnicity is most ways. A little bit about your personality:Naomi tends to be a bit quiet, and it takes her a little while to warm up to those around her. She is usually even tempered, but when she does lose her cool, she can be quite nasty. A sweet girl, she is always polite and has forbidden herself from using vulgarities. Pet Peeve:people who believe they are always right. Favorite subject/subject taught:Naomi has many favorite subjects, however she tends to enjoy languages and music much more than the sciences and mathematics. Visual representation of yourself: Name:Menu Cross Age:17 Year/position in school:Senior Hometown:Machado, Japan (I made it up!) Written physical description:She's albino! She has white hair with red eyes. She's the size of your average girl and is the right type of skinny!(by that I mean she's skinny, but she doesn't look like a human skeleton) A little bit about your personality:Sly and cunning yet shy and in the shadows. Doesn't open up to people until she knows enough about them to satisfy her needs. Pet Peeve:Pink... it's something about that color that... ugh! Favorite subject/subject taught:Art, English Visual representation of yourself:(without cat ears though...) Naomi Tanaka stepped down from the shuttle bus in front of the main building of Bridgewater Academy. Her mother was right, the school truly was beautiful what with the picturesque valley and the elegant baroque architecture. She politely thanked the driver as he passed her baggage to her and looked around the place where she found herself. There were many people mulling about, some obviously new and others with their established groups. Naomi found herself to be nervous, this was her first time attending a boarding school, and she had no idea what to expect. Name:Yuki Crashing:17 Year/position in school:Senior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country):Northern Japan Written physical description: Light Blue long hair, light blue eyes, girlish looking face (which make people mistake him for a girl), childish voice, Yuki's looks and voice make him popular with the girls, but he doesn't notice ITA little bit about your personality:Shy, Childish at times but always knows when to be serious, creative and kind. Pet Peeve: Loves music and flowers that bloom in the snow. Favorite subject/subject taught:Favorite Subjects Art and Poetry, does other subjects okay. Visual representation of yourself: Yuki was walking to school when he saw a new girl. He noticed that she was new because she was very nervous, he walked up to her to greet her. "Hello there, you must be new." Yuki said. Naomi blushed very slightly at being spoken too. She smiled and nodded at the boy in front of her." Yes, I am. How long have you been here?" she asked. "I've been here for a long time. In fact, I'm a senior in this school." Yuki said as he smiled. "My name is Yuki Arash, my name means snow storm." "I'm Naomi Tanaka. Would you happen to know where I'm supposed to put all of this?" she asked, gesturing to her bags. "Hey Yuki!" Menu yelled as she saw him in the distance. She always liked everyone in her grade and decided to go and say hello. "Who's the girl?" she asked Yuki as she arrived to where he was standing. Name:Anastasia (er... I'll make up a last name later...) Age:17 Year/position in school: Senior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country):Washington, Russia Written physical description:Shoulder - length mouse brown hair and beautiful blue eyes. She is skinny and has rosy cheeks. She is also very pretty/beautiful. A little bit about your personality:She is nice and is good at lifting people's spirits. Pet Peeve:She greatly dislikes people with bad hygiene and an extensive use of cuss words. Favorite subject/subject taught:She enjoys/loves Language Arts and Math. Visual representation of yourself:None at the moment. I will add it in the next post. "O--oh, Menu, hello! Her name is Miss Katherine Tanaka." Yuki said to Menu." Uhm...the bags? In the lockers I suppose, I only bring what is necessary in this school bag." Yuki said. "That makes sense, and you don't have to call me 'Miss,'" returned Katherine. "This seems like a really nice school. Much better than my old school, anyhow." "Sorry, I normally call people 'Mister or Miss', if I don't know them very well." Yuki said. "It's okay. I'm just not used to it, I guess." "Do you need any other help Miss, uh I mean Katherine?" Yuki said. Ooc: Can I be a new student??? "Hey, Katherine. If you don't feel like asking Yuki here than ask me... you know... if it's something concerning us girls!" Menu joked. ((IOC: sure California!)) Naomi turned the slightest shade of pink as she laughed at Menu's joke." I'll remember that!" she said, grinning. "Now to get rid of my bags!" "H--hey Menu, don't tease me like that." Yuki said as he blushed. "You know I'm just joking, Yuki!" Menu laughed. She then gave him a little squeeze of a hug. "You don't know how cute you get when you blush, do you?" Yuki's face got redder. "...s--still that's..." Yuki stopped talking when Menu hugged him. Menu let go of Yuki and began to laugh. "Your still so funny, Yuki!" she laughed. Yuki felt so embarrassed that he stayed quiet. Menu stopped her laughing and leaned against a nearby wall. "You okay, Yuki?" she asked him kindly. Naomi couldn't but giggle slightly as Menu teased Yuki. "Y--yes I'm fine." Yuki said as he backed away from Menu a little. Yuki had a slight crush on Menu ever since he became friends with her. He never even noticed the other girls that liked him. *sigh* "If you say so, Yuki," Menu replied as she stood up straight from the wall. She looked over and saw Katherine. "Hey! Katherine, right? Did you get what you needed to be done?" She asked. "..." Yuki smiled but stayed quiet. Menu rushed over to talk to Katherine. When she reached up to her, she looked back to Yuki to see his smiling face and smiled back with a happy wave. Yuki waved back to Menu. He looked at his watch, "Oh no I'm late, I'm late." Yuki ran fast to the library, for the club. Menu watched as Yuki ran off after glancing at his watch. "Where is he off to in such a hurry?" she mumbled to herself. She then said goodbye to Katherine and ran off to see where Yuki was going to since she always somewhat of a crush on him and was curious of where he was going to. Yuki was at the library sorting some books, a few girls worked there as well, they were smart, and they were really shy in front of boys. The 2 girls worked on the counter, while the other two girls helped with the books. "Hamm... Shakespeare goes here, and ahh... Love Poems go there. Love Poems... I wonder if I can write one for her.... Renu." Yuki was daydreaming about Menu. Menu peeked into the library to see Yuki hard at work. Oh! I forgot about this!she thought to herself better leave him be and go to the studio*((studio*-I made it up... It's just an art room... nothing more....)) Yuki categorized all the books in the library. When he was done, he went to the computer in the library to find out some information. In the studio, Menu began to paint.... she loved to paint... it was one of her favorite things to do in the world! Yuki found a website about love and poems about love. "I should use this as my information guide, and maybe I can win her heart." Yuki said to himself. The girls at the library overheard what Yuki said. One of the girls started spreading rumors all over the school. Menu finished her painting. It was of a winter frozen heart. "Wow!" she said to herself. "This isn't half bad!" Heres the actually picture that I drew of it.... Another girl appeared next to Menu, to tell her about the news, that Yuki is in love with a girl, and he's planning to win her heart. Name: Amaya FuyuyamaAge: 17 Year/position in school: Junior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): Her mother is Chinese, father is Japanese. They currently live in Japan, where Amaya was born. Amaya lives near the campus with a host family. Written physical description: Unusually pale skin for her background. She has long black hair and gray eyes. She is barley five feet tall little bit about your personality: Amaya is very shy and only will speak with someone once she gets to know them. Furthermore, she only will speak in class otherwise. Because of her crippling shyness, she has very few friends. Pet Peeve: Those who critics others to make themselves feel better. Favorite subject/subject taught: Music is one of her favorites, she also loves math and science. Visual representation of yourself:((could I be the "another girl?")) ((Sure why not? I need someone to tell Menu the message.)) Ooc: ERM... I'm just waiting for a moment to jump in so just say the word and I'll role-play... ((go in sheesh)) ((California, you could probably just insert yourself, maybe bump into Okamamyst))Amaya slammed her locker shut and marched down the hall. The students huddled in groups in the hallway drew back as she stormed past. I can't believe that I am about to do this. I suppose I should, it is for my own good. After all, it isn't me who he likes. He's never showed any emotion to me at all. I suppose Menu would like to know anyway... She slowed her pace as Menu came into view. Nervously, Amaya tipped her hands off on her skirt and approached the older girl." Umm... Menu? There's something that I want to tell you... It's about Yuki... He's in love with someone, a girl. He is planning to win her heart. The girls in the library were talking about it. I'm not sure if it's true, but... I thought that you would like to know." Amaya turned away, preparing to run to her first class and wait in silence. ((I didn't tell anyone, girls from the library spread a rumor since they overheard me say that, I'm going to win a girl's heart.)) ((okay, I fixed it. Thanks)) Naomi waved goodbye to Yuki and Menu and then turned to admire the building if front of her. In the cab, Naomi had concentrated on wringing her hands instead of where she was or what was around her. The building was made from slabs of white stone that were modeled after baroque period architecture. The pure beauty and reality of the building filled Katherine with such all that all she could do was stand before it almost stupefied. After a moment of relishing what was before her, Naomi walked inside and had to pause once more to gaze around the building. She found it a bit odd to see rows of lockers in the hallway since Bridgewater Academy was a boarding school, but she supposed they were only there for the day students. In the front entrance was a large sign made from the same stone and intricately carved. In the center of it on the side facing her, was a directory and map of the grounds. There were also clear file bins that contained pamphlets telling about the school and providing a color map of the grounds. Naomi picked one up, just in case” you could never have too many maps. From the directory, she learned that she needed to head to the left to reach the main office, which was clearly marked by an engraved stone sign above the old wooden door. Naomi pushed it open and waited for the office lady to see her there.ayes? May I help you?a said the woman behind the desk as she turned away from her computer screen.ayes, IAS™m a new student here, and I was wondering what exactly IAS™m supposed to do, ” replied Naomi, trying her best not to sound stupid.anti wish they would give incoming students better instructions, ” sighed the woman. €œI’m Kasey.a She held out her manicured hand.Naomi Tanaka, ” said Naomi, shaking Kaseya™s hand.Anita™s very nice to meet you, Ms. Tanaka. If you please follow me, then wear™ll get you all situated, ” returned Kasey, coming around the desk. €œHere, let me help you with your bags.a She took hold of one of Naomi's suitcases and then led her down a narrow hallway to a door clearly marked residence Life.”“They’ll take care of you here, ” she said, smiling. €œif you ever need any help, please Dona™t hesitate to ask me. IAS™m always at my desk.a Naomi watched Kasey walk back to her desk.what a nice woman, ”she thought as she pushed open the door to Residence Life.hello. May I help you?a said a red-headed girl, who looked to a senior, sitting behind an encasement of desks to Naomi™s left.ayes. IAS™m a new student, ” she replied, walking up to the desk.aloof course. What™s your name?”“Naomi Tanaka.a The girl pilfered through some files in the folder organizer sitting on the desk.adhere we are!a she said, pulling a manila folder from the organizer. €œWe have quite a few new students on campus this semester. Here is your folder, ” she continued, setting it down on the desktop and opening it.this is your schedule, a list of contact numbers in case you have any problems on campus, information about your roommates, and your hall assignment and a map to your dormitory.a The girl indicated each item with her pen.Armand these--" she jingled a pair of keys. "--are your room keys. Dona™t lose them; it costs $30, and the janitor™s have to go in and change the locks and give your roommates new keys as well.”“Thanks, ” replied Naomi, taking hold of the folder and her keys.“You’re welcome. And good luck!a chimed the girl at the desk as Naomi left the room. With her keys in hand, Naomi made the long trek up to her dormitory: Moore Hall. The hall was situated on the top of a hill and overlooked the main part of campus. Behind it were a large lake and a trail that led up to the horse stalls. It took some effort to lug her luggage up to the third floor, N-304, and when she reached the room, she was surprised to find three other students lounging in the common space between the two suites. ((For those of you who need a visual rep. Of Academy Hall (the main building on campus), here you go:Just imagine the stone being pure white.)) ((Sorry about the size of the image. It's hard to find good small images of Charleston College...)) Name:Elizabeth (Liz) Turner Age:16 Year/position in school:Sophomore Hometown:Her mother lives in Boston and her father lives in Pleasant view, England (fictional town). She is a boarding student at BA. Written physical description:Of an average height, Liz stands at 5'5". She has long blond hair that she enjoys coloring various different shades, her latest being carrot red. She has large blue eyes and a fair completion with a spattering of freckles of the bridge of her nose and her cheekbones. A little bit about your personality:Liz is usually happy and very energetic. Her friends often label her as an "enthusiastic extrovert." She has also been dubbed the "photo-whore" of the Bridgewater Campus. You'll never see her without her camera. It's as though it's attached. Otherwise, she is generally pleasant to be around, but can have a fire temper. Pet Peeve:people who say they aren't photogenic. Everyone looks good in photographs. You just have to catch them at the right moment and in the right lighting. Favorite subject/subject taught:Art. The End. Visual representation of yourself: Name:Jun Song Age:17 Year/position in school:Junior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country):Tokyo, Japan Written physical description:Jun is fairly tall for his age, topping out at 5'6 1/2". He is half Japanese and half Korean and maintains the typical physical characteristics of those ethnicities. A little bit about your personality:Jun is a bit on the reserved side. However, he is very personable and enjoys having a large circle of friends. He does not get mad easily and despises jealousy (that doesn't mean that he never gets jealous himself). Pet Peeve:know-it-alls and brown-losers. Favorite subject/subject taught:Music, art, languages (except English). Visual representation of yourself: Elizabeth Turner, Liz for short, was the first to look up from the game of Rummy she was belling with two of her roommates, Maria and Shane, when their new roommate walked in through the door.alpha!" she said jumping up and letting her hand drop to the floor, forgotten. Maria and Shane groaned when they saw. She would™ve won, undoubtedly. €œI’m Liz Turner. And this is Maria Garcia and Shane Repoint.a The other two waved as their names were spoken.Katherine Turner, ” replied the newcomer, a bit stunned.axis that a Massachusetts accent?a asked Liz.“Uhhh…Well, my Mom used to live in Boston. And IAS™ve spent a fair bit of time there, but IAS™m actually from Colorado, ” said Katherine.AOH.”“Tell her the condition, ’a said Maria, her accent heavily Colombian.Albright! The Condition. Before you can move your stuff in to your room, you have to have a nickname. Conference!a said Liz. The three girls grouped together, their heads touching and their voices whispering.Agathe decision has been made, ” announced Shane with a Paris accent. €œYou are hereby known as Kat.”“Okay…a replied Katherine, still slightly stunned from the bombardment of attention shear™d just received. The girls proceeded to help her with her luggage.“You’ll be in the left-hand suite with me, ” said Liz. When Naomi entered the suite, the first thing she noticed was the photographs.photography is sort of my hobby, ” said Liz. This was an understatement. Naomi could tell at that very moment that Liz was what Susan would have called a photo-whore. Liz, Maria, and Shane put her suitcases by the bed and left Naomi to arrange her side of the room while they played another game of Rummy in the common space. Naomi sat on the bed for a moment. Her eyes glossed over Liza™s plethora of photos and landed on the window. It was perfect view of a lake. There was a path that ran the entire circumference of the lake and from the window Naomi had the perfect view of bench beneath the foliage of a maple tree. Sitting on the bench was a boy. He had his head back so that it leaned against the curved top of the bench and his eyes were closed. Naomi smiled slightly at seeing him. Still smiling, Naomi turned away from the window and began to unpack. Jun Song sat on the park bench with his eyes closed and his head back. There was a slight breeze today, and he let it pass gently over his face. After a couple of minutes, he opened his eyes. From his upside-down view of the world, he could see someone moving about in Liza™s room. Almost everybody knew Liz. There girl in the window must be her new roommate. Jun stood and turned to watch the girl as she unpacked. She seemed familiar, somehow. As though head™d seen her in a dream or a past life. As she finished unpacking, Liz came into the room carrying her trusty camera. You never saw her without that device. It was as though it was attached to her. She snapped a few pictures of the new girl moving in, and clucked at her when she tried to hide from the lens. Jun chuckled and shook his head before heading to the stables to tend to Dusty, his favorite horse. Amaya turned away from the silent Menu. I should not have done that. It would have been better if I had just let it go, if I had only ignored those girls. It's probably just a silly rumor anyway. And I spread it. I am such a moron. She ran down the hall and out of the main campus building. Continuing to run, she stumbled over the rocky ground as she approached the lake. Such was her intent of getting into the residence hall, she did not see Jun crossing her path until she ran into him. Amaya fell over Jun and landed painfully on the gravel path. As Jun left the overcast of Moore Hall, he was suddenly barreled over by a much shorter girl dressed all in black. She landed fall down on the gravel path with her legs still draped over his." Are you alright?" he asked, leaning back on his hands to look at her face. He hated it when people talked without looking at the person they were talking to. After another game of Rummy, which she won, of course, Liz waltzed into her suite, camera aimed and ready. She quickly snapped several pictures as Katherine came to realize that she was being photographed. She then attempted to hide her face, which Liz caught on film, of course. Furthermore, she clucked her tongue at Katherine and then let go of the arm. It fell into place against her chest." You’ll get used to it," remarked Maria." She takes pictures of everything," added Shane. Liz merely grinned." Are you done unpacking?" she asked." Yeah," replied Katherine." Awesome! Come on! Wear™re going to give you the Grand Tour!" said Liz, taking hold of Katherine™s right arm and leading her out of the suite." Don’t you need your keys, Lizzie?" asked Maria, indignantly."Heh, heh. Right..." Liz said, turning a bit pink. Maria handed her and Katherine their keys and the quartet left Moore Hall for the "Grand Tour." As the rounded the corner of the building, they came upon a boy sprawled out on the gravel path with a girl on top of him." And this," said Liz in imitation of a tour guide. "Is Jun Song with a girl on top of him." Amaya slowly pushed herself up. "I'm fine." She said softly as she gazed back at the boy. Her face turned bright red as his gray eyes met hers. "Sorry." She looked up at the four girls who had just arrived. Completely embarrassed, Amaya jumped to her feet, and ran off towards the woods. After Yuki was done with working at the library, he went to the woods. When he saw Amaya, he went towards her, "Hi Amaya. What's up?" Yuki said as he hugged her. "It's been awhile since I've talked with you, hasn't it? I'm sorry, if we never had time to hang out. I've been busy lately." Name: Time Hoffmann Age: 24 Year/position in school: Home Room/Environmental Education Teacher Hometown: Ho ogler, Montana, Unwritten physical description: 6'2" medium length hair with an average build. A little bit about your personality: Generally kind and outgoing, but being that this is his first teaching position he is very nervous. All he wants to do is get along with both his students and the faculty. Pet Peeve: Doesn't care for people who are too serious. Favorite subject/subject taught: Environmental Education Visual representation of yourself: Time came straight from the airport by taxi and now stood at the gates of the academy. He nervously slouched while he felt around his suit pocket for his acceptance letter. As his hand came to clasp the envelope in his right jacket pocket his stomach shifted making an audible noise. "I knew I should have eaten some tums," he mumbled to himself. After a few moments to himself, Time pushed his way through the gates taking note of all the young people around him. Though he was glad to finally be out of his parents' basement, Time couldn't help but be worried about how things would turn out here. Would he be set up w/ an apartment or stuck here on campus? He didn't know, but the letter said his room and board would be provided. He made his way to what he thought was the chancellor's office, but in no time at all found himself lost on the campus. Menu returned to the studio after hearing what Amaya just told her. "I guess... he does like someone else..." Small, pearl like, tears streamed from her eyes. "I suppose I should just feel happy for him.... It's probably what he wants anyway..." Menu then left the studio and left her tears and painting out in the open where any prankster could ruin it. Renu began and walked into the library to see if Yuki was still there but found nothing. She then walked down to where the woods stood, and she thought she heard his voice. I should tell him how I feel... before it's too late!she thought to herself as she ran into the woods, looking for Yuki. Then she saw Yuki along with Amaya, and she stood frozen at the sight with red covering her face. Is that... Is that who Yuki loves? Yuki heard a noise, he saw Menu, "Oh Menu h--i, I was about to go look for you." Yuki said shyly. Menu didn't know what to do... Her heart was beating, and she wanted to cry yet... Her eyes were dry... and her legs were stiff. She then found the ability to move and ran from the scene. I feel so stupid! I didn't even know what to do! Furthermore, I just couldn't let him see me like this!she thought as she ran with tears streaming from her eyes. "Recent wait!! Sorry Amaya, I'll hang out with you later." Yuki said as he ran after Menu. "Menu wait, stop please!!" Yuki ran as hard as he could after Menu. Menu heard Yuki screaming and stopped far off away from where he was. "Yuki..." she mumbled to herself behind her tears. She then dropped to her knees and hit the ground using her hands to wipe up her tears. Yuki was out of breath, "I-I-I need to start running for the track team." Yuki said. "Menu, please wait I need to tell you something important." Yuki said to himself as he started to run again. Yuki was getting closer to Menu. "Menu, please wait!!" Menu then started to cry less and less as Yuki's voice came closer and closer. "Yuki... You're coming for me?" She was more confused than ever now. When Yuki reached Menu, he got very tired, "R-R-R-Menu, p-p-please don't go away." Yuki said as he fell on his knees. Yuki was out of breath that he was breathing hard. Just as Yuki arrived, Menu wiped the rest of her tears. "I heard that you were going to give a love poem to a girl you have a crush on.... I didn't mean to run... I just thought that you and Amaya were!" She didn't go on... "Me and Amaya? It's not like that between me and her, she and I are friends. I haven't really hanged out with her, because I'm always busy." Yuki said. "Anyway, I do love someone, and she's cute, nice, and funny. And.....she's right in front of me. Menu, I love you." Yuki said as he smiled. Amaya tried not to stiffen as Yuki wrapped her in a friendly hug. Nervously, she wet her lips and ordered her arms to hug him back." I...Nothing's up really. I-it has been a while. It okay that you've been to busy. I." Amaya stopped speaking when she heard the leaves rustle. Slowly, she dropped her arms. She looked over to the bushes and saw a red-faced Menu. Tears began to roll down the other girl's face as she ran off. Amaya watched Yuki run after her and smiled slightly. She did like Yuki, he was nice, but she now knew how much Menu cared for him. Sighing, she picked her bookbag back up and walked out of the woods, heading briskly back to the main building. She entered and slipped into her homeroom, waiting. There was a rumor of a new homeroom teacher who was supposed to be there today. Slowly, she put her head down on her desk. Her eyes closed as she waited for someone else to come in. Menu blushed and turned to Yuki. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "Y-you love me?" She asked him. "I don't know what to say!" She then dropped herself onto Yuki and swung her arms around him as she whispered into his ear. "I was going to say the same thing to you!" As the girl ran off towards the woods, Naomi and her new-found roommates stared after her. Jun stood from his sprawled position on the path and swiped at the few pieces of gravel that were still clinging to his pants." Jun, this is our new roommate, Naomi Tanaka," said Maria. "Kat for short!" interjected Liz. "Nice to meet you, Kat," Jun said, holding out his hand. Naomi shook it and smiled. "Likewise," she said." So why was that girl on top of you?" asked Shane. "She ran into me when I was coming around the corner," Jun replied, shrugging." Who was she anyway?" asked Maria." I think her name™s Amaya. IAS™ve seen her around before; shear™s in my grade," answered Jun. "What are you guys up to?" "Wear™re giving her the Grand Tour," explained Liz. "Want to join?" "Sure, sounds like fun to me," replied Jun. With that the group set off on the tour, Liz snapping random photos, of course. "We better get back to the school, Yuki. We should get to our classes and such..." Menu said as she stood up, pulling Yuki up with her. On their winding tour, Naomi, Maria, Shane, Liz, and Jun, encountered an older man dressed in a neat business suit and looking rather lost." Excuse me, sir, but do you need any help finding your way?" asked Shane, very politely. "You love me too." Yuki's face turned red. Yuki kissed Menu in the lips. Just then, Menu embraced the kiss from Yuki. "I hope that this never ends" "Me too." Yuki said. Time reached over his shoulder and began to scratch the back of his head tensely, "I suppose I do. Could you direct me to the chancellor's office? I'm supposed to report for new teacher orientation, but my flight suffered a severe delay, and I'm worried I may have made a poor impression." He looked around nervously while awaiting an answer. Name: China Bandage: 17 Year/position in school: SophmoreHometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): Japan, but he lives in the dorms Written physical description: Black hair, really dark brown eyes, lightly tanned skin. 5'6"A little bit about your personality: Outspoken and friendly. He talks to everyone he sees. Pet Peeve: ChatspeakFavorite subject/subject taught: English, he loves the language Visual representation of yourself: China ran out of his dorm room. Leaving his shirt untucked, he ran down the stairs and out the door. Finally, he reached the classroom building. He slipped through the doors to the outside, and again through the doors to his homeroom. Slowly, he sank down in his desk, next to Amaya. He thought she was asleep until she slowly sat up. Quote: Time reached over his shoulder and began to scratch the back of his head tensely, "I suppose I do. Could you direct me to the dean's office? I'm supposed to report for new teacher orientation, but my flight suffered a severe delay, and I'm worried I may have made a poor impression." He looked around nervously while awaiting an answer. "Yeah, no problem," said Liz. "It's in the main building."" Speaking of which, we should probably be going over there anyway seeing how homeroom starts in fifteen minutes..." remarked Shane." We'll show you the way to Academy Hall, if you don't mind following a bunch of students. It gets confusing trying to give directions around here. That's why there are maps in the lobby of Academy Hall," said Maria. "Main building?" He looked around campus. To his unfamiliar eyes, every structure seemed that they could be a main building. "Well, if you don't mine, I'd appreciate it. I imagine I'd get lost again if left to my own devices." He decided not to dwell on his current incompetence. "So who's your home room teacher?" Quote: China ran out of his dorm room. Leaving his shirt untucked, he ran down the stairs and out the door. Finally, he reached the classroom building. He slipped through the doors to the outside, and again through the doors to his homeroom. Slowly, he sank down in his desk, next to Amaya. He thought she was asleep until she slowly sat up. Amaya raised her head off of her arms when she heard someone enter the room and sit down. Her long, black hair streamed down into her face. Slowly she brushed it back and looked around." Good morning, Mr. Canada." She greeted him, knowing full well that calling him that would annoy him. "Morning Amaya." China replied. Then the frowned. "I thought I told you not to call me 'Mr. Canada?' Why are you insisting on calling me that?" "I... I'm used to it. Your Japanese too. You know about the culture." She replied, angrily. "Yes, but we knew each other in Japan, and we know each other now. You can cut the formalities down. Just call me by my first name." "Are you sure that calling you that isn't too informal?" Amaya asked. Knowing his reply, she turned away and dug out a sketchpad. "Yes I'm sure Amaya." China said, becoming slightly annoyed. Seeing her pull out a sketchpad, he shifted in his seat to see what she was drawing. "What're you drawing?" He asked, once she positioned her body in such a way that it blocked his sight. "None of your business." Amaya replied softly. She stood up, her sketchbook in hand and walked into the hall. There, she sank down against the wall and began drawing. Her pencil moved slowly over the page, adding lines here and there. Angrily, Amaya slammed the sketchbook shut. She did not want to draw him. It was bad enough knowing that Yuki cared for Menu, and not her. Why did she still want to draw him though? Yuki looked at time and got worried, "Oh no class is about to start. Menu, we have to go to class." Yuki was getting really worried. "Okay let's get going!" Menu replied to her dear Yuki. Yuki held Menu's hand and started to run with her to class. "I have art right about now... what do you have?" Menu asked as she ran with Yuki. "Music class, it's close by to your classroom." Yuki said. "Okay! That's good!" Menu expressed as they entered the building. Heading to their classes. "See you later Menu!!" Yuki said as he blushed. Menu then went into her art class to learn that she had to draw something that expressed themselves so that the art teacher could place them around the school. She then drew with each stroke of emotion she could... [this is what the picture looks like... it looks like this one I drew. Ooc: I have decided to leave this RP because I am in too many rps at the moment and joined very late, so I'm not up-to-date on/in the plot. Bye!!! Yuki went to class, he was very happy. The music teacher instructed that the class can have free time to play music however they feel like playing. Quote: Originally Posted by Herkamyrh "Main building?" He looked around campus. To his unfamiliar eyes, every structure seemed that they could be a main building. "Well, if you don't mine, I'd appreciate it. I imagine I'd get lost again if left to my own devices." He decided not to dwell on his current incompetence. "So who's your home room teacher?" "Academy Hall, or the "main building" is this way," said Maria, leading the way across campus. "As for our homeroom teachers, I think mine is a new teacher, since no one I know recognizes the name."" And I have the same teacher as Maria," added Shane. "Mine's Madame Backer; she's the French teacher!" said Liz, cheerfully. Naomi dug her schedule out from her back jeans pocket." Is this the one: Mr. Hoffmann?" she asked. Maria looked over at the name she was pointing at." No, that's your second period; Environmental Ed. The homeroom teacher is listed beneath your name, here," she said, indicating the place. "Dr. Johnson."" Oh," said Naomi. "Dr. Johnson can be a bit strict, but I had a lot of fun in his homeroom last year. And I think Warren has that same homeroom," said Jun, trying to make Katherine feel a little more at ease. "I'm a bit curious, I don't even know what time my classes start or how many I'll have to teach. Between what hours is homeroom here? And is it a short meeting or is it a full`period?" He attempted to look a little more natural and comfortable, but his self consciousness was getting the better of him. Yuki was playing on the piano, he was playing a love song. In her art class Menu overheard the beautiful music of a piano. She had no idea what it was but it intrigued her so! Out of the classroom she sneaked and looked into the music room to see Yuki playing the piano. "That's truly beautiful", she murmured. She then stood from the door and sat down onto the floor with the wall as her backrest. "Truly... Beautiful" She then stood up and made her way back to class before the teacher could notice. Yuki was very happy, that he didn't notice the audience listening to him. Menu then left her art class. She wasn't sure if Yuki's class was over or not, but she didn't care. She sat back down in the place she did before and waited. When Yuki was done the class and the teacher applauded him. "Th-thank you!!" Yuki heard the bell ring, then he grabbed his things and went to find Menu. When he found her, he sneaked behind her and kissed her cheek. "Hey Yuki! How was your class?" she asked him. "It was okay, I guess. I had free time, so I played on the piano for a bit." Yuki replied. "I'm just happy to be with you." Yuki kissed Menu in the lips. "I heard your melody on the piano...it was quite beautiful..." "Oh I see." Yuki blushed, "It was for you. You make me feel happy." Menu blushed... "That was... That's so thoughtful of you..." Menu blundered. "It's because I love you." Yuki said as he blushed. :oops: Menu blushed again... Yuki smiled. Name: Kiss Follows Age: 17 Year/position in school: Junior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): London----Was born there and lived there for 17 years until her father sent her to live with her aunt just recently. Her aunt sent her to this school, for the remainder of her school year. Written physical description: 5 feet and six inches tall, weighs 130, Long silky hair, Has a scar on her shoulder blade from a car accident when she was 10, A little bit about your personality: Quiet, Serious, Attitude, but sometimes there are days when she is completely crazy (when she forgets her medication) Pet Peeve: Know it all, People who are extremely hyper Favorite subject/subject taught: English, Art, Music Visual representation of yourself: Yuki pulled Menu closer towards him and kissed her passionately. After hearing the response of where exactly homeroom fell into the daily routine, Time parted with the students making his way to the main hall and into the chancellor's office. After a quick introduction with the dean and a rescheduling of their meeting, the chancellor had the dean of the biology department escort Time to his classroom. On their way, the head of biology explained how the last environmental education teacher had passed away and how close the two of them were. This made Time a little nervous and was further exacerbated after seeing just how developed his classroom was. However, he was a little excited too, for this was a state-of-the-art facility and was complimented by a green house elsewhere on campus. After the head left, Time removed his jacket and set his bag down behind his desk. Unlike many teachers who would move from classroom to classroom between periods and have an office somewhere, this classroom would be his alone and double as his office as the animals and plants here would never be moved. He walked around the room, familiarizing himself with the various animals, trying to relax a little before the next set of students came in. Kiss steps in a room wondering where she was. She saw someone. Feeling lost she looked around and paused scared in one place. "..." she wanted to ask him where Biology was, but she didn't have the courage. ((OCC: Anya, who are you talking to?)) As Time explored his classroom he discovered he had a storage room. He stepped in and looked around. He saw it wasn't terribly big, but it had one very large window that stretched from floor to ceiling. IT also had two lab sinks, a refrigerator, and shelves filled with various animal food. He was a little afraid to open the refrigerator, already knowing what was likely within. He slowly opened the freezer door, his prediction ringing true. Inside was the last remains of the rodent breeding program that the last teacher had used to feed the numerous reptiles back in his main room. They were all skillfully executed and frozen in gallon Ziploc bags. Timo recalled that many of the animals that ate dry food were low on food and decided now would be a great time to start the feeding. He left the storage room and took count of all the carnivorous reptiles in the room and the two birds of prey, the hawk and the owl. He then returned to the storage room and took out a necessary amount of frozen mice and began to thaw them in the back sink. While they thawed, Time booted up his laptop, hooked it up the overhead projector, and began making a spreadsheet consisting of all the animals in the room and the foods they would eat. This would be a perfect way to introduce his students to the animals, he could assign one to each of the students and have them feed whichever one today. This would allow him to see how his students reacted around animals, who was afraid of what, and how people conducted themselves while handling an animal. ((Less probably you .... since you asked first)) Kiss walked into the room further looking at him. He looked like a teacher. But she was not exactly sure. Gaining some courage she asked for some help. "Excuse me Mr would you know where I could find biology. I feel so lost among people in this building as if I am not supposed to be here. So if you could help me, I would be very grateful sir." asked Kiss quietly Kiss then backed off, scared of what she just asked. She saw this room was a science lab but was not sure if it was the right room, knowing she couldn't navigate well she wasn't sure. She disliked Biology because she feared animals. They scared her, but her Aunt insisted she get over it. At that moment she was scared. She started crying in front of him because of everything in her life felt so wrong. Like nothing went her way. Maria, Shane, Liz and Jun directed Katherine to her first period, English with Mr. Johnson, the same teacher that was to be her homeroom teacher. Maria than went to Biology, Shane to Art History, Liz to Geography, and Jun to Choir. Katherine walked in to her classroom and sat close to the middle of the room. She watched quietly as more students trickled into the room, followed by the teacher just before the bell rang. Mr. Johnson was a tall skinny man with a partially bald head and square spectacles. He indeed looked strict, but Katherine was sure she would do well in his class; she loved English, mostly because she was good at it. She really enjoyed most subjects other than math and science, which was why she wasn't looking forward to Environmental Science next period. "Oh, don't cry, it's not a problem," he said both nervously and sympathetically. "It looks like I have a free period since no students have come into my class. I'm Mr. Hoffman, the environmental education teacher. This is a science building, I assume your class is around here somewhere since my class can be taken as an alternate for biology. What room are you looking for? It's my first year teaching, and I'm unfamiliar with the grounds, but I'm sure I can help you find it." "I don't know ..." said Kiss wiping her tears. "I just moved here so I feel kinda lost a lot since I know nobody or where anything is ..." Kiss opened up her schedule and showed it to him. "Thank you by the way, You're the first I have actually talked too" she said lifting her head giving him eye contact. She didn't smile, she hasn't for a while. She didn't know why, but it was better to trust him over some. "Oh by the way I have biology . But if this is an alternative ... would it be okay if I was your only student in this class?" She looked around seeing no one else. "I am afraid to step out into this world, with everyone around. I work better alone ... but if you deny I can always go to Biology ... But you're going to have to help me still find it since you know more than me possibly." said Kiss quietly Time didn't know what to say, he didn't even know what the procedure was for transferring classes. "Hmm mm, I don't mind, although I think we'd have to see what one of the councilors would say, and I'd probably have to get permission from the dean of the biology department as well. But after all the proper bureaucratic avenues have been fulfilled I'm sure that would be fine. I'm thinking this would be considered an independent study though." He thought it over for a brief second, "I can give you directions to the main hall where the dean and the councilors are." Amaya left her classroom and slipped silently through the halls. How she hated the crowds between classes. The other students would bump into you, or shove you out of their way. If she was lucky, they would be accidents and the other student would apologize. But that never happened to her. She was constantly being shoved out of others way. Just because she was Asian, did not mean that everyone had to be rude.Finally, she reached her next class. Environmental education. The one class she had been looking forward to taking. She had added it to her class schedule, happy that she finally had time to take the one class she had chosen this school for. Surprised, she saw that the teacher was not Mr. Camera, like it had been last year. Vaguely, she remembered a ceremony that had been held on campus over the summer for a teacher who had died. Shrugging to herself, she took a seat in the front of the room and looked at the teacher and the student he was talking to. ((IOC: I need to flesh out my teaching schedule.1st period: Free period/independent environmental studied period: Regular environmental education...more to come as the schedule fleshes out.)) Timo gave the best directions he could before sending the young lady off. He had missed the other student coming into class and now noticed her and the other students that were filtering into the class. He awaited the bell before starting class, continuing to work on the animal feeding spreadsheet. Menu, being kissed by Yuki, embraced the moment. When Yuki stopped he looked into Menu's eyes. "Beautiful, you really are you know that? I love you Menu." Yuki said. Menu then gazed upon Yuki and his beautiful eyes. "Your not half bad yourself, Yuki..." she announced. Yuki laughed a bit, "I guess it's somewhat of a complement." Yuki said as he rubbed Menu's cheek with his hand. "I guess I was never good with words..." "It doesn't matter." Yuki said. "I'm just happy we're together." Menu then squeezed Rio tightly and pressed her head against his body. "Me, too..." Ah, great counselors ... they scare me . He sent me off to them ... oh why does this have to happen . Oh, well it was the first person I ever talked to here . that's better than anything. She followed what directions she had and was on her way. It seemed difficult, but she was going to get her science credit somehow. "I wish I had said I loved you sooner when I started becoming closer." Yuki said. "Excuse me? I don't understand what you just said" ((Sorry I typed too fast so I skipped some words XP))"I wish I had said I loved you sooner when I started becoming closer to you." Yuki said. ((Okay! Thank you! I didn't know what your were saying!))" It's too late for that now, Yuki... but it doesn't matter now..." "Yeah, you're right, because we still ended up together right?" Yuki said. "Exactly!" Menu cheered. Yuki laughed a bit. "Hey Menu, would you like to come at my place sometime? I promise I'll cook for you." Yuki winked at Menu, Yuki was always confident with his cooking. "Sure! I'd love to!" "Alright, uhm...how should we do this then?" Yuki said. "On the weekends maybe? Is that good for you?" "Yep! That's perfectly fine with me!" she responded with a smile. Yuki smiled. "Sweet, oh before we go to our last class together, what's your favorite type of foods Menu?" Yuki asked. "Hmmm lets see... I usually love.... flavored rice!" She smiled as she thought about it. "Really spicy with some wasabi* sauce!"definition...wasabi*-hot as putting fire into your mouth. "Hmm. I see, I'll make that for you, anything else?" Yuki asked. This is a polite reminder to everyone that this is a school thread, and was not intended to be purely romance. The romances can continue, but let's try and put back in the school aspect of the thread. Too much gushy can become annoying. And remember to keep romances edited PG-13! Also, this is a literate thread, and by that I was expecting more than needless one-liners. I understand that one-liners can be important for dialogue, however, right now that's all that's going on. I am not pointing fingers at anyone. This is just a friendly reminder. Okay, thought I'd take on the role of another teacher. Name: Mr. Thomas Johnson Age: 44 Year/position in school: teacher Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): Wyoming. His family had a ranch in walking distance from Yellowstone National Park. Written physical description: 5 feet and 10 inches. He is also rather thin and appears much more frail than he really is. Personality: Mr. Johnson is a strict teacher and comes down particularly hard on his students during the first week or so of classes. However, all of his students do well on national exams. Pet Peeve: Brown-losers, slackers, indignant students. Also, impeccably horrible usage grammar. Favorite subject/subject taught: Freshman English, homeroom, AP English classes, IB English classes, Creative Writing, Shakespeare, Sophomore English. Visual Representation: coming eventually. Schedule:Freshman English Sophomore EnglishHomeroomShakespeareCreative Writing Free Period AP English Language English: Seniors Office: Room 23_His color in my posts will be:Blue Also, if anyone else would like to double as a teacher or faculty member, that would be wonderful. We need a few more. Just remember to keep your second character's posts a different color. (What would be wonderful was for someone to be within an area that they either know a lot about, or wouldn't mind researching a bit about so that it seems more realistic). Quote: Maria, Shane, Liz and Jun directed Katherine to her first period, English with Mr. Johnson, the same teacher that was to be her homeroom teacher. Maria than went to Biology, Shane to Art History, Liz to Geography, and Jun to Choir. Katherine walked in to her classroom and sat close to the middle of the room. She watched quietly as more students trickled into the room, followed by the teacher just before the bell rang. Mr. Johnson was a tall skinny man with a partially bald head and square spectacles. He indeed looked strict, but Katherine was sure she would do well in his class; she loved English, mostly because she was good at it. She really enjoyed most subjects other than math and science, which was why she wasn't looking forward to Biology next period Mr. Johnson looked out over his students with what he hoped was a stony glower. He must retain his reputation of the toughest teacher in the building; it was central to his students' success. As the last student filed into the room, Mr. Johnson stood and tapped his papers on his desk to make them fall into order. €œWelcome to 9th grade English. I am your teacher, Mr. Johnson, and this is first period in room 236. If you have some other class scheduled during this period, I suggest you leave and find the room before your teacher calls roll, ” Mr. Johnson began his class with his usual strict composure. In his mind, students always needed to be set straight at the beginning of the school year. All summer vacation did was give them a long enough period to forget how to behave in a classroom, which was why Mr. Johnson was an advocate for year round schooling. He waited for two boys to leave the classroom before continuing on with his first day of class lecture. €œNow that everyone believes they are in the correct room, IAS™ll call roll. When I call your name, raise your hand and if you have any reasonable nickname, tell me, so I can correct my roll call. Andrews, Jacob.a adhere!a came the response from an African American boy two-thirds of the way back. Mr. Johnson continued calling roll in the same manner, last name first followed by the students™s first name. Occasionally, he would receive a pronunciation correction or a preferred name, but mostly the students responded with a “here” and a raised hand. As each student responded, Mr. Johnson observed them with a glance head™d acquired over his twenty-some odd years of teaching. Generally from this glance he could tell who the troublemakers were and who the brown-losers were. He had also learned to tell who belonged to which clique within the walls of Bridgewater Academy, although there were fewer cliques than many public schools in the area. Each group had their own preferred placements within the classroom. Generally, the stoners and slackers sat in the far back left-hand corner, although they also enjoyed sitting right near the door so they could leave as soon as the bell rang. However, on most days it was the main popular girls who sat by the door--that way they could mouth messages to their many friends as they walked by. The brown-losers usually sat right up in front, either the first or second row so that when they raised their hand, it would be right in your face where you would be sure to notice it. The solid students who tended to be a bit more shy sat at about the third and fourth rows in the middle of the room where they had a clear view of the blackboard. And the windows were reserved for the rowdy boys and the daydreamers. Done with roll call, Mr. Johnson went on to address his students with more important information. €œStarting tomorrow, you will have a seating chart. Whether or not you continue to have one, will depend on how you as a class decided to conducted yourselves. Now then. The rules of this classroom are posted on the blackboard; they will always be posted there; they are for your reference. I suggest you read them sometime during this week. When you signed up for this class, a roster was mailed to your permanent address. If you bothered to look at it, which almost none of you did, you would have noticed that you have a year-long assignment--a Mr. Johnson was instantly interrupted by groans and whispered complaints to neighboring students. He cleared his throat, bringing the classroom™s attention back to himself within a couple of moments. €œThis--” he began again, holding up a stack of green papers, a--details the assignment. In a few moments we will go over the guidelines together and then you™ll be on your way to second period.a Mr. Johnson walked from column to column, handing the first students a stack of the papers exact to the number of students seated behind the column. €œDid anyone not get a paper?a he asked, once done. When no one raised their hand, he continued, your assignment is to keep a journal. How you keep this journal is entirely up to you, although I do require a minimum of ten pages worth of writing since this is an English class. Other than that, I do not permit anything that goes against the school rules or the Zero Tolerance Policy. There is a minimum requirement of one entry per week. When you are given days in class to work on the project, I expect that you work on it. If you Dona™t, prepare to give me a valid reason as to why not. This project should not be something that takes up more than at least fifteen minutes per entry, so if I hear complaints from parents saying that I am giving his or her son or daughter too much homework with this project, then I will calmly explain to said parent that it was their students™s choice to spend so much time on the project. This is also a project that you will not want to wait until the last minute to accomplish because there are 52 weeks in a year and with 15 minutes per entry, then that™s 780 minutes or 13 hours. I highly doubt you want to be spending that much time the day before Ital™s due trying to complete the project. Now, with all of that said, you have a total of ten minutes to get started.a IOC: Sorry for the enormous length. I was in a writerly mood. Name: Age: 23 Year/position in school: Mathematics Teacher Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): Written physical description: Personality: Always quiet unless teaching, Patient to the charm, He uses words in a different usage then most, He is very clam. Pet Peeve: Suck ups, Annoying Disruptive People, Slackers, Whiners, Complainers, Know-it-alls, Favorite subject/subject taught: Algebra CPI, Algebra CP, Visual Representation: Will Come Schedule: 1st Period-Algebra 2nd Period-Free 3rd Period-Algebra CPI 4th Period-Algebra CP After the bell rang, Time began his first real class of the day. With a big, nervous swallow said, "If you're enrolled in Environmental Education I, period 2 then you're in the right spot." He watched a couple students get up and exit the room. He continued, "I'm Ti... Mr. Hoffman. A little about my self," he began to pace along the length of the wall, "I come from Montana, I graduated from Montana University with a double major in education and ecology. This is my first year teaching so sorry for my imperfections." He wished he hadn't mentioned it's his first year teaching, but it was too late, it was out there. "As I take attendance, please stand up so that I can see your face, say a little about yourself, so I can get to know you, and then sit back down please." He started taking attendance. I'll take on the role as a language teacher. Hopefully this will keep my memory of the language fresh. Her posts will be in Dark Red Name: EU, Hong Age: 37 Year/position in school: Chinese teacher Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): China, was born and raised there. She has a family that lives in a city near Beijing. Written physical description: 5'4" Short black hair that she usually keeps tied back in a low ponytail. Round framed glasses. Personality: Hong is called Laos hi EU by her students. She always tries to keep her students active and interested in the class, while maintaining the strict policies for teaching that she had while in China. Although she does not speak English well, she can understand what people are saying. Pet Peeve: Talking while she is lecturing, people who assume that she doesn't understand English just because she can't speak it well, Students who do whatever it takes to get an A, and those who have no interest in learning, but are in her class. Visual Representation: coming someday "The rest is up to you!" Menu cheered. "Okay will do." Yuki grabbed Menu's hand and went to class with her. He was very happy. But he has also ready to learn more in school and in romance. "Alright! Off to class!" Quote: Originally Posted by okamimyst Mr. Johnson looked out over his students with what he hoped was a stony glower[....] Now, with all of that said, you have a total of ten minutes to get started.a Katherine was a bit amazed at how well the students behaved themselves for Mr. Johnson. It was almost as if they already knew what he was like. To Katherine, this didn't make the least bit of sense; they were all freshmen, so how could they have known him before? The assignment that Mr. Johnson gave the class was an interesting one, and Katherine wondered why he gave such an assignment. The assignment may be different, but Katherine was glad it wasn't a research paper or something of that sort. During the last ten minutes, Katherine tried to figure out something to write, and failed. When the bell rang, she gathered her things into her bookbag and left the classroom, scrutinizing her schedule in hopes that it would magically show her the route to her next class--Environmental Science. She figured that it was downstairs, since the room number was in the 100's. As she came down the stairs, she ran right into another student, landing hard on the steps. Upon her landing, her bag fell open and papers, pens, and notebooks scattered all over the floor. The student she had run into was Jun. Name:Dr. Suzuki IchigoAge:29 Year/position in school:teacher Hometown:Brigham, Massachusetts Written physical description:5 feet and 4 inches, Suzuki Chico is an energetic young man with a very compassionate soul. Personality:Dr. Strawberry, as his students like to call him, is very energetic and generally happy. He jokes a lot and therefore is sometimes not taken seriously by his peers and students. Pet Peeve:Usually, Suzuki doesn't have trouble with very many people at all. However, he can't stand instruments or notes that are out of tune. Favorite subject/subject taught:General music, symphonic orchestra, string chamber, marching band, concert band, theory, choir, world music. Visual Representation:coming eventually. Schedule:(1) Choir(2) General music(3) Homeroom(4) Off Period(5) AP/IB Theory(6) Symphonic Orchestra(7) Concert Band(8) World Music After school: Marching Band Office:Room 543His color in my posts will be: Green Name:Adelina Johnson Age:17 Year/position in school:Senior Hometown:Cove (wow where is this going?!) Written physical description:Add (as most people call her) is about five feet, four inches tall with short black hair. She wears glasses of a strong prescription and is about average weight, but not on the skinny side of it all. She likes to wear dark clothes, but, for her father's sake, she wears pretty much what everyone else wears. A little bit about your personality:Adelina is a very accomplished musician and plans to take her music further in life. She sings Alto in the choir, plays flute and piccolo in the concert band, plays violin in the orchestra, and saxophone in the marching band. Her father is Mr. Johnson, an English teacher at the school, but it doesn't mean she gets the easy end of the stick. Add's pretty shy, and kind of loner, but that doesn't stop her from succeeding in her education... everything but English. Everyone thinks she gets off easy in that area, but what people don't understand is that her father pushes her harder than all the other students. "No daughter of mine is going to slack," is a constant phrase in her head. Pet Peeve:Her father's English classes Favorite subject/subject taught:Choir, Concert Band, Orchestra, Marching Band Visual representation of yourself:(But with Black hair and thick rimmed black glasses)((I'm not totally sure if Mr. Johnson wanted a daughter >_> so a message approving or disapproving would be nice before my first post, so I can make any necessary changes to my character ^^ Dance)) ((Addie's father is fine. It will make for an interesting plot twist. Thanks for joining!)) Quote: Originally Posted by okamimyst [....] As she came down the stairs, she ran right into another student, landing hard on the steps. Upon her landing, her bag fell open and papers, pens, and notebooks scattered all over the floor. The student she had run into was Jun. As Jun hurried to second period from choir, he found himself get again sprawled on the floor. Luckily, there wasn't a girl on top of him this time. He realized that the girl who had bumped into him was Katherine, and he immediately began helping her pick up the spilled contents of her bag. ((One, thanks ^-^. I don't know how often I'll be on, boyfriend's a little clingy))Add sighed and stared out the window. A soft tap tap tap could be heard as she tapped her pencil impatiently on the desk. Chemistry wasn't her favorite subject, and she had just gotten out of choir." Why must I take these pointless classes..."she thought to herself and looked up at the clock. Class had only been in for fifteen minutes. Quote: Originally Posted by nevermore As Jun hurried to second period from choir, he found himself get again sprawled on the floor. Luckily, there wasn't a girl on top of him this time. He realized that the girl who had bumped into him was Katherine, and he immediately began helping her pick up the spilled contents of her bag. "S-sorry, Jun," stuttered Katherine, a bit embarrassed. She frantically began picking up items from around her on the stairs, trying to avoid looking at Jun because she was turning bright red. This was why she hated her complexion. Name:Ms. Christina Kay Age:27 Year/position in school:teacher Hometown:Boulder, Colorado Written physical description:Ms. Kay, called Ms. Chris on an everyday basis, stands at 4' 11" and hates it. She is slender, yet toned and can be a bit on the eccentric side. This is shown by her short, spiky, cotton-candy-pink hair. She wears wire-rimmed glasses, and has a lip ring that she tends to play with when bored or nervous. Her left ear has three piercings, while her right only has one, and she is a tattoo on the side of her neck of a sun. A little bit about your personality: Ms. Kay is a graduate of MICA and went to graduate school at RISD. Her art is highly accepted in the art world, and many of her colleagues wonder why she chose to teach a subject that hardly receives any recognition in schools. Ms. Kay is a determined person, especially when it comes to her morals and beliefs, and she believes that every student deserves to learn art from the best instructors available, hence why is "lowering" herself to the teaching profession. Pet Peeve:Students who take art for "easy credit"Favorite subject/subject taught:Foundations in Art; Draw/Paint I, II, III; Studio Art I, II, III; Computer Graphics I, II; Photography I, II, III; Digital Photography; Calligraphy; AP Art History; IB Art Visual representation of yourself:Schedule:1) AP Art History2) Photography I, II, III3) Homeroom4) Studio Art I, II, III5) Digital Photography6) Foundations in Art7) Draw/Paint I, II, III8) IB Art After School:Calligrapher color in my posts:Violet Christina Kay watched as her students for 2nd period began filing into the room. Some she had seen before, others she had not; some would have talent, others would not. Neither of these facts affected how Christina Kay conducted her classroom. They were all here to learn art, or in this case, photography, whether they wanted to or not. This would not be the "easy credit" that some students were expecting. Christina waited until the students had found seats and taken them before she addressed the class. "Hello and welcome to Photography I, II, or III/IV. I'm sure it seems odd to some of you that--" she was cut off my a student walking in late rather loudly. "--Michael is only two minutes late as well as that all three levels of photography are in the same class, however, I am only one person and cannot possibly teach every single art class in merely eight periods. So, bear with me, because I'm bound to be frazzled at times. Now then, I'm passing around a sheet of paper. Please write your full name, nickname, and which class you signed up for." Christina handed the paper to one of the girls sitting in the first row, she noted that she had a camera of her own. "Now that the paper is being circulated, here's your first assignment, if you're in Photo I: Take 20 pictures of the same scene. Please do not hand me a packet with 20 identical pictures. That is not the point of the exercise. Photo 2: Expressions. Capture them. Photo 3 and 4: Meet me in the corner; your assignment takes too much time to explain in front of the whole class. The rest of you: brainstorm, but not too loudly." The mundanes of the first day of class complete, Christina led the Photo 3 and 4 students to the corner where she gave them details of everything that needed to be in their portfolios by the end of the semester. She also stressed that what went into the portfolio would probably go to colleges so it was important that they take their best photographs. Quote: Originally Posted by quarantine Name: Elizabeth (Liz) Turner Age: 16 Year/position in school: Sophomore Hometown: Her mother lives in Boston and her father lives in Pleasant view, England (fictional town). She is a boarding student at BA. Written physical description: Of an average height, Liz stands at 5'5". She has long blond hair that she enjoys coloring various different shades, her latest being carrot red. She has large blue eyes and a fair completion with a spattering of freckles of the bridge of her nose and her cheekbones. A little bit about your personality: Liz is usually happy and very energetic. Her friends often label her as an "enthusiastic extrovert." She has also been dubbed the "photo-whore" of the Bridgewater Campus. You'll never see her without her camera. It's as though it's attached. Otherwise, she is generally pleasant to be around, but can have a fire temper. Pet Peeve: people who say they aren't photogenic. Everyone looks good in photographs. You just have to catch them at the right moment and in the right lighting. Favorite subject/subject taught: Art. The End. Visual representation of yourself: ((Thought I'd re-post this and add in Liz's schedule))Schedule:1) Prefix Geography2) Photo I3) Homeroom: Madame Backer4) Prefix Algebra5) Pre-IBC hem/Phys6) B Lunch7) Freshman English8) Prefix French 2 Liz arrived at room 540 early enough to catch Shane on her way out." Where you headed, Shane?" she asked." Environmental Science," replied Shane. "Do you have Photo next?"" Yep! I'm soooooooo excited!"" I think you'll like Ms. Chris," said Change, nodding. "Catch ya later!" Liz walked into the classroom to find a petite, slender woman with pink hair sitting on the corner of her desk. Shane was right, Liz was going to like Ms. Chris. Smiling, Liz sat down in one of the first row seats and took out her camera. As she gingerly placed it on her desk she hoped that other students wouldn't think she was bragging. She half thought of putting it away, but couldn't bring herself to do so. Her camera was like her life source; sometimes it seemed as though it was the only thing that connected her to the world she lived in. Two minutes after class began, a boy walked in to class a little bit too loudly. Liz let her eyes follow him to his seat. She instantly recognized him from Caldwell Middle School. Kenji San had been one of the toughest (and cutest) boys in the eighth grade when she was a Stevie. Of course, he is good looks had only grown. Liz pinched herself underneath her desk to bring herself back into focus. Ms. Chris handed around a sign-in sheet and gave them their assignments. The whole time she was writing out her brainstorm ideas, Liz's mind and eyes kept wandering back to Kenji. By the time class had ended, Liz had bruise marks on her thigh from pinching herself all through class. Quote: Originally Posted by okamimyst "S-sorry, Jun," stuttered Katherine, a bit embarrassed. She frantically began picking up items from around her on the stairs, trying to avoid looking at Jun because she was turning bright red. This was why she hated her complexion. "It's nothing. That place is a notorious blind spot," said Jun handing Katherine a handful of pencils while he continued to pick up a few notebooks and papers. He noticed that she was trying not to look at him, and he wondered why. He could see that she was blushing. Was it merely embarrassment? Or was it something more? Turning slightly pink himself, Jun pushed those thoughts out of his mind. Katherine was a cute girl, but he'd only just met her; he wouldn't allow himself to crush on someone he didn't even know. ((As I said, clingy boyfriend lol))Add's attention snapped to the front of the class when the teacher started lecturing on the semester's requirements and what they will be learning in the class. She jotted down a few notes, notes that had nothing to do with the class. She soon was off in space, not even hearing what the teacher was saying. After what seemed like hours, turned out to be about five minutes, she could hear faintly"Ms. Johnson, this is not an art class, this is not a music class. We do not doodle or write compositions in here. Put that away and take some real notes." Addy, a little offended, snapped back to reality again and put the paper away. She took out another piece of paper and sighed. She started writing down the course study, biting her lip rather hard as she did so." Sorry sir..."she said, rather exasperatingly "Thanks. I'll remember that," replied Katherine, taking the fistful of pencils and the stack of notebooks. She shoved them all into her bag and hastily picked up the last bit. Just as that bit was going the rest of the scattered items in its proper place, the bell rang. Katherine jumped." Oh, crap. I'm late, and I don't even know where I'm going," she muttered. "Environmental Science, right?" asked Jun. "The room's a bit hard to find, so I'll show you the way." ((Don't you just hate it when they get all Clint?))" Thanks, but you're already late. You really don't have to go out of your way if you're going to get in trouble," said Katherine. "Well, I'm already late, so what's a few minutes more going to do?" replied Jun. "Come on, it's this way." He started down the hall to the right of the stairs. The Environmental Science room was actually really hard to find if you didn't know your way around already. Sometimes Jun was amazed that Dr. Norman, the old teacher, could ever find his classroom (this was also partly due to the fact that Dr. Norman was known for being a bit spacey). Of course, if you knew what to look for, it wasn't impossible to find the room. When Dr. Norman had first arrived at Bridgewater five years ago, he'd painted his classroom door a bright purple. Unfortunately, since then, many of the teacher sharing the science wing had begun to paint their doors as well. Not in purple, of course, but the hall almost had every color of the rainbow. Jun wondered if the new teacher would re-paint the door. Katherine followed Jun down the hallway to the right of the stairs. He seemed to be lost in thought, and Katherine was half glad that he was; it made it so much easier to pay attention to where they were going. The first thing that she noticed, was that all the way down the hall, the doors were painted a different color. The variety certainly made Bridgewater more amusing than her old school, Fairview Junior and Senior High. It actually made science seem a bit more interesting, and it took a lot to get Katherine interested in anything retaining in the least bit to science. As the passed each door, Katherine counted them off, silently." One...two...three...four..." "Here we are," said Jun taking a sharp right and holding his left hand out flat to indicate the violet door. "Thanks Jun," said Katherine smiling. Nervous, her hand fluttered above the doorknob. Then, she took one sharp intake of air and opened the purple door. Jun waited until Katherine was inside the classroom before continuing down the hall and up the back stairs to the English department. Mr. Johnson would not be happy that he was late, but Jun didn't mind that much. It was much more important that new students felt comfortable at Bridgewater, and it was his job as Peer Advisor to make sure that they did. About halfway through attendance, Time received an email from admissions. The email contained an updated roster for his classes. He decided to give up on attendance today for most certainly there would be schedule changes in this first week of classes. "Well students, it looks like it doesn't matter as far as attendance goes this week. I'm going to take it easy. But we do need to assign animals. Each of you students will be responsible for one cage, aquarium, terrarium, etcetera. So if you choose the first chinchilla cage, you will be responsible for its cleanliness and the health of the animals with in. Certain things, like the big live coral saltwater tank will require two or more students to care for it. I'm just gonna start with table 1 and work through to table 5." The classroom didn't contain desks or anything like that, but instead five large tables, each sitting four students. He indicated to table one taking down the animals each student requested.((Anyone in my class just post now what animal you want to be in charge of. Examples of possible animals are fresh water fish, saltwater fish, a variety of lizards large & small, snakes, chinchillas, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, mice, rats, 1 hawk, 1 owl, etc.)) Katherine was glad that her teacher didn't notice her coming in late, or at least said nothing on the matter. She quietly stole to the back of the class where sat down at a table with an empty seat. Mr. Hoffmann was in the process of writing down which animals each student would like to take care of. When the time came for Katherine's turn, she chose to help take care of the saltwater tank. In their home in Tokyo, her father had had a large salt water tank and Katherine had always enjoyed taking care of the fish and other animals in it. Her favorites were the Angel Fish. ((Thought I'd help in the development of Shane))Name: Shane Heritage: 15 Year/position in school: freshman Hometown: a small town in Provence (southern Provence of France). Written physical description: Shane is fairly petite standing at 5'2" and is dark skinned. Her family originally came from Senegal, but decided to try to make a better life for themselves in France. She excelled at her collage and so was able to receive a full scholarship to Bridgewater, and her parents naturally left for it, although the airfare caused her to not be able to go home except during the off seasons. Personality: Shane is usually fairly quiet. She is also highly inquisitive and very intelligent. She has the air of being sophisticated. Pet Peeve: Rich snobs, people who don't earn their grades/money/etc. Favorite subject/subject taught: Almost everything. However, she's not the greatest fan of mathematics. Visual Representation:Only with dark skin. Schedule:(1) Art History(2) Environmental Science(3) Homeroom(4) Advanced Freshmen English(5) Lunch A(6) Symphonic Orchestra(7) Algebra 2(8) Geography Her color in my posts will be:Olive Amaya seemed to be the only who noticed as the girl walked in late. With a start, she realized that this girl was one of the girls who had stumbled across her after she ran into Jun that morning." Sir, I'll take care of the Chinchilla's." She offered quietly as she continued to gaze absently in the direction of the doors. Mentally shaking herself, she dragged her eyes back to the front of the room. ((I'll give people another day to post for animals. Tomorrow morning, the 16th of Jan, I plan on continuing.)) Laos hi EU walked into her second hour class, Chinese one. She smiled to herself as the students fell silent and gazed at her. Most surprising however, was the variety of ages among the students. "NCA hero. WC’ jazz XAF HA³NG. WC’ via YC’u San gas ran, WC’ Zhang, near, had WC’. WC’ Shaw Zhōngguó LCAO SHA«." Happily, she grinned at the confused faces of her students. "That mean: 'how are you? I am called EU Hong. My family has three people, my husband, my daughter, and me. I am a Chinese teacher."((remembering the accents is so hard)) ((well for those of you in my 2nd period class who didn't post there animal yet, just pretend you already did.))" Well class, now that we have chosen our animals, I will now lay on you the full weight of you're choice," He said nervously. "Before arriving here I had much communication with both the dean of sciences and a bunch of the K through 8 academies and schools in the area. One of our responsibilities aside from educating ourselves is educating others. In roughly a month our first 3rd grade class will come to visit on an educational field trip. Your assignment will be to give a 5-minute presentation on whatever animal you chose. For those of you who chose something that requires more than one person you'll have to work with your partner to decide what aspect to report on. As an example, for the two of you who picked the saltwater aquarium, one may choose to report on the live coral and the other the fish. For those of you in that situation, I allow you a week from today to deliberate the details." He walked around to the front of his desk and hopped up on top of it taking a seat though awkwardly. "I don't have solid dates yet, but in roughly two or three weeks, we will go on practice runs. You all will take a specimen from biology class to biology class and give practice presentations. These will be for a grade as will the presentations to the 3rd graders." He scratched his head and took a drink of water, "Halfway through the term we will reassign animals and the same schedule of presentations will resume, but more intensive since you'll all have a better understanding of my expectations. For those of you who feel that you deserve to keep the same animal for the second term, I expect a three-page essay displaying both your knowledge of the topic and why you deserve to continue giving presentations over the animal and lastly, you're presentations lengths will be extended to 7 minutes. To reiterate, that's only for people who wind up having the same animal for the second part of the semester." He walked around to one of the five lab sinks and began to compulsively wash his hands. He wasn't OCD or anything, just a little nervous and wanting to do something with his hands. "The second half of the class will consist of studying the world around us, particularly the various ecosystems around campus. I will offer up quizzes here and there as I see fit to test your knowledge. These quires will also be curved as I see your folks' performance as a direct reflection of my ability to convey the materials to you. At the end of the semester, there will be a final covering all the quiz material coupled with a 10-minute presentation over one of the animals you chose to care for." He looked at his watch. "Well, its getting late and many of the animals still need feeding. Those of you who chose snakes and other creatures who eat rodents, I have already taken the liberty of thawing some in the storage room sink. Everyone please wash your hands before and after the feeding. I will come around and help anyone who needs it and to offer up suggestion on proper rationing." As the students got up to wash their hands, Time went to the storage room to get the various plastic tubs of dry food. The Chemistry teacher stopped his lecture and sat down. There was still at ten minutes left in class, Add calculated and sighed as she looked at the clock. She put away her half-filled page of notes and took out her doodles and music again. She noticed that she had drawn an angry chili teacher yelling at a class of stick figure students. Furthermore, she chuckled to herself and sketched again. Furthermore, she wasn't much into talking with her table mates, though they tried multiple times to take her paper and giggle. Finally, it took a glare and a growl to get them to leave her alone; sometimes it helped to be a little mean and intimidating. She doodled more and waited anxiously for the bell to ring. The sooner this class was over, the sooner she had another music class. They were the only things to keep her sane.((Sorry I haven't posted @[email protected]I've got a lot of school work and the boyfriend... yesterday I had to practice for Nor Cal Honor Choir and directly after I had steel band XDD I had a nasty headache too... I shouldn't even be on here, but I am anyway ^_^)) Menu entered her classroom with Rio just thinking of what would happen in their English class that day. She then went to her desk and went through her class of the day.((I don't know! It was the first class I could think of!)) ((Okay, we need to get this going lol))The bell finally rang, signaling the end of 2nd period. Add jumped up and hurried out of the class. She had Homeroom with a teacher she had never met before. Her father had her so strictly on school work that she was never able to take any art classes other than her music. She happily headed off in the direction of Ms. Kay's room. She almost seemed to float through the crowded halls; her experience was grand with this school, having navigated through it since she was very young. ((my internet died, and I finally got it back))Amaya gently placed a handful of dry Chinchilla feed into their bowl and check the level of their water bottle. As she finished the bell rang. She grabbed her bag and darted out of the room, heading for her Chinese class as quickly as possible. Once there, she slid into her chair and waited for the class to start. ((Sorry I haven't been around for a little while. Stupid college.)) Katherine barely made it to her homeroom on time. Mr. Johnson was sitting behind his desk, watching as everyone filed into the classroom. Katherine chose to sit in her same seat. As homeroom began, and Mr. Johnson laid down his classroom laws, Katherine daydreamed. At first, she dreamed about nothing in particular. Just warmth and sunlight. Then, it changed. It changed to a temperance of the past summer. She'd spent the summer months with her Dad, and, as usual, was enrolled in a summer school program at Tokyo Jitsugyo Junior High School. She was numbering a day in particular--the last day of school. Throughout the entirety of the last period, she watched as the student council set up the decorations for the closing ceremony. In less than an hour, Katherine and seven other girls would be dressed in their nice Yucatán and walking across the stage to receive their junior high "diploma." There would be cameras flashing and tears and the girls said goodbye to their younger friends, and maybe even their current friends. But for Katherine there were many things that wouldn't happen. The sound of the classroom door opening, brought Katherine out of her daydream and she focused on the person coming through the door. Name:Chandler Balayage:16 Year/position in school:junior Hometown (be creative, there is no need to use an actual place, other than country): He is from Edinburgh, Scotland. He was born and raised there. Written physical description: He is a little taller than most boys get. He has black hair and beautiful brown eyes. A little bit about your personality: HE IS STRANGE. Most times he comes off as a jerk. He is sarcastic and clever. Know how to get out off trouble and to look for loopholes in the rules. Pet Peeve:smoking Favorite subject/subject taught:Music Visual representation of yourself:(without wings) To Mr. Johnson, homeroom was a waste of time. He would much prefer that the ten minutes of the period be distributed to class time rather than this useless "class" in which students only wished to chat among themselves. This was why his rules for homeroom were far more strict than those for his regular classes--there would be not wasting of precious minutes in his classroom. Mr. Johnson looked at his students with a frown on his face. Homeroom frustrated him and this was why he frowned. Of course, he had no idea that hi students thought that he frowned because he quite simply mean. If Mr. Johnson knew this, he would probably try and change his disposition towards homeroom, but he did not know this, so his homeroom was notorious for being the worst class any student had ever taken at Bridgewater, apart from health, of course. While he rattled off his list of rules, Mr. Johnson watched the students. He noticed one girl sitting in the middle of the classroom with a wistful look about her. He thought about snapping her back to reality, but he realized that he didn't have the heart to. She reminded him a lot of his daughter. Mr. Johnson knew that he didn't get along well with his daughter, and he knew that he pushed her to hard at times, but it was always with the best intentions. He wished every night that they could grow closer to each other, like a father and his daughter should be. Then, his thoughts were abruptly interrupted by the classroom door opening. Add reached Ms. Kay's room and quickly took a seat near the back. She liked a bit of variety in her classes, unlike other students who like to sit in the same spot in every class. She waited for the rest of the class to file in before she pulled out her pen and paper to doodle again. I can doodle in here...and I won't be penalized she thought to herself and grinned. She continued drawing chili teachers, this next one looking quite a bit like her father, whom she wished wouldn't push so hard in academics. (Hello. I'm not really sure where to start)) ((You can start anywhere you'd like. Although, there is a perfect set-up for an entrance at the end of my previous two posts.)) Chandler Data walked into hiss first class at his new school. Homeroom. He walked up to the teacher to show him his schedule. " Hey. " He said handing the teacher his schedule. "Hello indeed," replied Mr. Johnson, taking the sheet of paper the boy held out. "There appears to be a single seat open in the back right corner. Make yourself at home, but do know that I highly dislike tardiness." Mr. Johnson handed the student his schedule and turned back to the class. "There are--" Mr. Johnson paused and looked at his watch "--exactly seven minutes left in the period. You may talk among yourselves, but please the decimal level at a minimum." Mr. Johnson sat down at his desk and took out a novel he was reading. Katherine watched as the boy walked in the classroom. When he walked into the room, she got an impression that he was a bit rough around the edges. The way he held himself and spoke to Mr. Johnson only re-enforced this perception. It reminded her a lot of Take, the boy who lived next door to her father in Tokyo. She'd always thought that boys like that were somehow misunderstood, but sometimes she wondered how right she was about that. She supposed that the only way to find out was to get to know the person. He walked back and took his assigned seat. He looked around the room. This would be a nice class for scathing. He smiled at Katherine who seemed to be examining him closely. Katherine had watched as the boy headed to seat without really noticing she was doing so. When he smiled at her, she blued and quickly turned her head back to the front of the class. The fifteen minutes of homeroom passed by slowly for Katherine since she didn't know anyone in the class, and instead of trying to associate with people in the present, she thought about those in her past. Namely, this past summer. It wasn't as though her summer was completely different from other summers--she had the same friends, she did the same things in classes, and she went on the same trips with her father and stepmother--but at the same time, the summer had been completely different; it had changed her view of the world and of her life entirely. She only wished that she could experience it all again. After a solid period of doodling and a teacher with her head down on a desk, the bell rang, signalling the end of homeroom. Add sighed; she dreaded her next class. She never really liked English literature, and the fact that her father basically forced her to take Shakespeare made her sick to her stomach. She was sure she'd fail. Furthermore, she walked the long, yet rather short distance to her father's classroom. Most of his class was still filing out, some of them rubbing their eyes. She giggled to herself a little because she knew her dad would never approve of those students. She walked in the classroom and took a seat near the window so she could easily daze off into space. Chandler walked out of the classroom. He looked at his schedule. He had no idea where his next class was. Weren't fancy schools like this supposed to hire someone to show you around? He looked both ways in the hall and went to search for the office. He wanted to go home. Amaya glanced at the clock. Homeroom would be over soon. She didn't have a specific homeroom class that year, some sort of glitch in the computer's scheduling system. Not that it mattered; she viewed homeroom as a waste of time. 15 minutes of doing nothing, just being counted as there or not there. The students Diana™t even get a real grade for it anyway. Amaya suspected that the idea of homeroom was though up to torture teachers and students alike. Sighing, she dropped her head down on her desk, trying to drown out the noise from the classroom next door. It was silly, having homeroom and then not actually teaching anything in it. All the students had to do in that class was talk. Or, for some of the lazier students, rush to finish homework. Finally, the bell rang, signaling the end of the boring class. Amaya sat up straight, waiting in hopeful silence. She loved Chinese and Japanese, and any language she could take that she already knew. Although she was fluent in Japanese, and nearly fluent in Chinese, she still took the classes. After class, she would often stay behind and talk to the teachers in that language. English was hard for her to understand, there were so many rules and different ways to form sentences. Amaya thought that being forced to take English all four years was a bigger waste of time than homeroom. Shear™d just be going back to Japan and maybe teaching in an elementary classroom. Or maybe shear™d move to China and teach there. All that she knew was that she would never really need to learn English, aside from being able to understand it when it was spoken at her. LCAO SHA« XAF HA³NG walked into her second year Chinese class. Most of the students were already in their seats, silently waiting for her. She smiled happily when she saw that Amaya was once again in her class. During the last minute of the passing hour, she stepped up to the girl™s desk. €œNǐ hero Xiao Amaya.a “Lǎo SHA« hero.a The girl responded with perfect pronunciation. Beaming, LCAO SHA« XAF turned away and walked to the front of the class to begin another year of teaching. Katherine made her way to the music room in a reverie, which she scolded herself for. She had been the one to choose to come here. She could have stayed at the Catholic school in Springdale, or even stayed with her father and continue her education in Tokyo, but she had chosen this school. Of course, she also scolded herself for her reasons of choosing this school. Sure, it was great academically and had a wonderful campus, kind faculty, and great facilities, but those hadn't been her only reasons. Katherine wasn't sure exactly where she was going, but somehow she ended up right where she needs to be, and two minutes to spare as well. The music "room" had a layout very similar to that in her old school. One entered through a set of double doors into a main hallway. Along one side of this hallway were four different sound-proof practices rooms. On the other side, were two more practice rooms and another narrow hallway bordered by more practice chambers. At the end of the main hallway, was another set of double doors. These led to the main music room--room 524. As Katherine passed down the hall, she glanced inside each practice room (or PR as she'd learned to say at Hollyhock High in Springdale). They were truly very well equipped. Each one had a thermostat that told the temperature and the humidity. These were adjustable, but you had to have the code in order to do so. Each room also had a piano and two nice stands. There was one large PR in which a baby grand sat sleek and elegant. Katherine longed to touch its ivory keys; she had never played a baby grand. Every PR also had mirrors along one wall so that one could check one's posture. The windows that looked into the rooms had three inch thick glass, so that the smallest possible amount of sound escaped or entered the room. As she went further down the hall, she noticed a large group gathered in front of one of the PR's. When the bell rang, the group scattered and out came a tall, handsome boy. She'd found him. Chandler turned to look for the office to get help. This school was huge, and he wasn't in the mood to maze around until he happened to fall into the right class. He didn't even remember where the office was. This was ridiculous. He was getting frustrated. He starched his head and leaned against the wall. Time was feeling a little more confident at the conclusion of his last class. After his homeroom students came in, he introduced himself to them. He took attendance and continued with the daily announcements before allowing the students their free time. He began reading aloud from a piece of paper, "Bridgewater Academy would again like to welcome students both old and new..." He broke off and skimmed down the paper. After a brief moment he looked up to the class, "There are no announcements so never mind. I guess reacquaint or introduce yourselves to one another until the bell rings." He sat at his desk and began to search for his teaching schedule. ((Well, I guess the world can't continue without me! Sorry for theloooooooonghiatus, guys. It was Lent. Anyway, I'm back, so let's get this thing up and running again, shall we?)) Katherine sat in the music room on the choir steps with her chin resting on her fist. She tried to pay attention to what the conductor was saying, but most of it slipped right out of her mind. Nothing seemed to stick around--just like the weather. Only ten minutes ago it had been brilliantly sunny outside the windows of the classroom. Now, however, it was raining. And it wasn't Springdale rain, either. No, this way Tokyo rainy season rain. Sheets of water pouring down from the layer of dark gray-blue-green-brown clouds that hung ominously outside the window. Katherine's eyes wandered in that direction, and she watched the steely sheets of water cascade down the panes.".....auditions..... Thursday," the two words caught Katherine's attention, and she pulled herself back into the here and now. "The pieces you will play from for your seating audition are at the front of the room. Basses closet to the door, then cellos, violas, and violins. Please pick one up on your way out and don't forget to practice. You may leave." Katherine blinked at the surprise of being let out early from a music class. She stood with the rest of the students and walked to the front of the room where she picked up a folder of music from the chairs marked with a lime-green sing that read "Violins." Katherine opened the folder as she left the room. Inside were two violin concertos, a practice sheet, and a thin scale book. Katherine examined the concertos." Hmmm…Vivaldi and Bach,"thought Katherine as she examined the pieces." They Dona™t look all that difficult. It shouldn™t be too much of a problem if I practice." Katherine looked up from the music just in time to see that she would have run right into the door if shear™d kept her nose inside the scores. As she walked through the doors, she saw Jun walking down the hall, a blond girl attached to his arm. ((I agree. This thing needs to be revived.)) Jun walked down the music hall with Jenna Merrier attached to his arm. The two had only been dating for a couple of weeks, but Jenna had been ready to show that fact off before they'd even officially become an "item." Jun was occasionally uncomfortable with this fact, but he knew that was just the way Jenna was. She was an outgoing and touchy-feely kind of girl. She gave him all the attention he needed in exchange for the attention he (and the rest of the school) gave her. As they passed by the band room, Jun smiled at Katherine as she emerged from the practice hall. He wondered how she was getting on, but he wasn't too worried. Katherine seemed like the sort of girl who could take care of herself. The two continued down the hall, meeting up with Jason, Todd, and Eric, Jun's friends since the eighth grade. Jenna hung around for a little while, listening and giggling slightly at the guys jokes, before she kissed Jun on the cheek and went to find Henna and Lin. Jun watched her leave." So, you guys seen the new girl yet?" asked Jason." Yeah, I met her this morning," said Jun." Nice. Liz told me she's her new roommate." Jun nodded in reply." Dude. You're totally head-over-heels for her!" laughed Todd." I have a girlfriend," said Jun, defensively." That's who we're talking about."" Oh," Jun blushed, slightly. "Let's go get lunch." The four headed to the cafeteria, Eric playing with his yo-yo as they walked. When they joined the rest of the school in the mess hall, Jun saw Liz guiding Katherine to a table outside." Let's eat in the courtyard today," he told his friends. Name:Road TatsuyaAge:17 Year/position in school:Junior Hometown:Bum fuck Germany little bit about your personality:Road's hot headed and arrogant. She has a knack for getting into trouble, and she's always making a mess wherever she goes. She's very intelligent, but her curiosity is often mistaken for stupidity, as she asks a lot of questions. Pet Peeve:There's no such thing as 110%Favorite subject/subject taught:Biology Visual representation of yourself:I suck with hair today for some reason Road walked into her favorite teacher's room. "Fuck, I have nowhere to go tonight." She kicked over one of the desks. It was 1am, and she'd been wandering the hall since 5. She pulled up the teacher's big comfy chair and placed it next to a desk. With her legs outstretched on a desk in front of her, she fell asleep sitting up.((I wanted to say something, but there's no one on to play with me, so I figured I'd leave myself open for something tomorrow, haha)) ((That's perfectly all right, Road. At least someone else will be posting instead of just never and I!　よこそう！ Revenue! Welcome! We kind of needed to get out that day, anyway. Seriously! That was one looking day! Hope you enjoy yourself!)) Katherine couldn't sleep. She sighed and looked over at her clock. 1 AM. She slapped her hand to her forehead and sat up in bed. She got up and got dressed into jeans and a T-shirt. Furthermore, she picked up her violin from beside the door and walked over to the school. The night air was pleasant, and the air was filled with the smell of damp earth and trees. Inside, Katherine made her way through the dark halls to the practice rooms. It took her almost twenty minutes to remember where they were, but that didn't really make much of a difference to her. In the practice room, she set her case on the piano bench and opened it. She withdrew her bow and turned the end to the right three times to tighten the nowhere. Then, she set it back in the case and took out the violin. From inside the longer compartment above the violin, she brought out her shoulder rest and attached it to the back of the violin. Katherine hefted the instrument up onto her shoulder and adjusted the shoulder rest until it was comfortable. Then, she drew her bow across her A string. Name:Kale Sanders Age:17 Year/position in school:sophomore Hometown:Ellensburg, Unwritten physical description:Standing at 6'3", Kale Sanders was the tallest boy in his grade. He was also the most athletic. An any given day, he had at least one practice. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday morning was tennis. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday morning was baseball. In the afternoons, you could either find him inside on the basketball court or outside with a soccer ball. He was lean, toned, and tanned, and his blond hair helped to accentuate this. A little bit about your personality:Kale tended to be a bit of a rebel. His last school was a private Catholic boys boarding school in Wisconsin, and he was thrown out for smoking and refusing to "conform." However, he was generally well-liked, especially by the ladies. He can be rather cocky and flirtatious. On the flip side, he has an extreme affinity for music and art, and is extremely loyal. He is like a coconut--a very hard shell that is nearly impossible to crack, but much softer on the inside. Pet Peeve:People who "judge a book by its cover." Favorite subject/subject taught: Music (cello), photography, art, French (the "language of romance"). Visual representation of yourself: Name:Joe SkylynxAge: 18 Year/position in school: Senior Hometown: Roman, Canada Written physical description:Joe is a lynx demon who stands 6'5" with dark brown hair. By looking at him people say he's a tramp when the fact is he's actually high royalty in his kind but chose to be not royal fully. He has a very strong French accent. Pet Peeve: "Life is the game of puppet and, puppeteer." Favorite subject/subject taught:Music, English,and Science Visual representation of yourself: ((Photobucket won't open)) Kale Sanders was up in the tree when she passed by. She was simply CLAS in frayed jeans and a green T-shirt, and she was caring an instrument case. From first glance, Kale guessed in was a violin. He could be wrong though; it could be a viola. But the girl didn't look like a violist, so he assumed she was caring a violin. She walked toward Academy Hall clearly thinking her way through. She was new here. But Kale had already guessed before he saw where she was headed. Kale watched her walk for a few more minutes, and then easily jumped down from the tree. It was much too early for her to be walking around on campus aimlessly. He stood from his landing position and brushed off his jeans. He watched her walk on for a few more minutes before following her into Academy Hall. It took her a while to find her way to the practice rooms, but when she found them she went right to work bring out her violin, tightening the bow, and tuning. The came out crystal clear, though a tad bit flat. ((Sorry guys; writer's block))Katherine wrinkled her nose as the off-pitch A hung in the air. She reached out underneath the violin with her right hand and turned the appropriate peg back and forth until the pitch settled on the correct one. Then, she proceeded to turn the D, G, and E strings in the same manner, checking them against the closet open string. Tuned, Katherine began her scales. She no longer thought through her scale and arpeggios, even though she played through three octaves; the notes had become automatic a long time ago. She played her scales for close to fifteen minutes, making sure she went through the whole circle of fifths. Next, she took out the folder she'd received in orchestra and took out the material for the chair auditions. Vivaldi was one of Katherine's favorite composers, and she'd already played this particular concerto, so she saved it to practice last. Katherine opened the Bach concerto up on the stand and began sight-reading. Well, I do believe this thread is dead. If anyone cares to revive it, then go ahead. Otherwise, would a moderator please delete it? Farewell, Bridgewater.

Bridgewater Academy (Literate; still accepting)|rating:2.0

Ancient History_ A Stargate SG-1 RP (Nataleigh & Arkaniel)

(for reference! Host Name:Reason'Ra Name:Anise It happened just a few short months ago. During a meeting on Vo rash, between the TOK'Ra and the Tau'RI, for the purpose of signing an official treaty between the two powers, one of the Tau'RI suddenly attacked those gathered with a Goa'old device. Major Graham was not to blame. He was a ZA'arc, someone who had been brainwashed by the Goa'old to be a sleeper agent during one of his previous missions. He had no memory of what had happened to him, no control over his attack, and no control over his death. His programming forced him to shoot himself in the head when it became apparent he would be captured. It was unfortunate. After that, Freya/Anise traveled to Stargate Command with Murtaugh to test the rest of Major Graham's team with her special ZA'arc detecting device. It was largely untested at the time, but she was reasonably sure it would work, and the leaders at Stargate Command wanted to give it a chance in the hopes of spotting any other ZA'arcs before the President came to sign the treaty. It was reasonable to assume he was the target, as the target of Major Graham seems to have been TOK'Ra Supreme High Councilor Per'SUS. Back on Vo rash, the TOK'Ra were conducting the same tests on their own people. Unfortunately, Lt. Louise Astor, a member of Major Graham's team, was found to possibly be a ZA'arc. As were Col. Jack O'Neill and Maj Samantha Carter. As they were quarantined, Freya/Anise tried to use her mechanism to counteract the ZA'arc programming done to Lt. Louise Astor. It did not succeed. She went beer and shot herself in the head with a pistol. So unfortunate. When everything was said and done, O'Neill and Carter were found not to be ZA'arcs... and Murtaugh was dead. Anise didn't know at the time how much his death would affect her... nor how much it would affect her host, Freya. Freya/Anise felt personally responsible for Murtaugh's death, somehow thinking she should have noticed something. Should have insisted on testing him earlier. Anything! So many should has and could has. It was tearing her up inside, and even the prospect of autopsying Murtaugh's body to finally nail down a way to detect and deactivate ZA'arcs wasn't enough to keep her drive up. They both needed time to heal.////Passage of Time////Looking into the mirror, Anise studied her appearance with slight concern. Over the weeks, she'd let her hair grow long, and the blond locks had begun to take on a natural curl. Perhaps she should cut it so it doesn't get in the way of her experimentation. Her eyes were still pure and clear, though, much prettier since Freya had stopped crying at night. And her appearance, though somewhat drab in a simple shirt and leather skirt, was functional and comfortable enough. Her grief was almost fully assuaged, thanks to taking this deep space assignment to look for any signs of Ancient devices or culture, but she still felt it ping at her heart every now and again. Her confidence in her intelligence and cleverness had been tarnished, and it would take much longer for her pride to recover than it would her heart. But she'd gotten very, very lucky in the last week. Far off the beaten path, she'd found a little planet with hundreds of Ancient artifacts. She'd spent entire days scavenging for old technology, brimming with the excitement of her next discovery! It was enough to make her giddy just thinking about it! And oh how she ached to get back out there and find more!-Let's go, then!-Freya called from within their shared mind, her voice eager.-We will. But first, our tools. I want to look in that building we found yesterday.-Anise replied, gathering a bag with TOK'Ra archaeological tools, a canteen of water, and her backpack with food and other necessities packed within it. She smiled briefly as she left the security of her ship, feeling the joy of discovery once again. It was a good feeling. A few hours later, Anise was sweating and dirty, having spent the better part of those hours crawling through ancient ruins, climbing over caved in portions of hallways, and beginning to feel like this was a waste of her time. She hadn't found one item of Ancient origin yet, and she was getting aggravated. Just then, she noticed a doorway half-hidden behind a pillar and some wreckage. Part of the wall had caved in, but the passage itself seemed safe, so she went. Inside was something that made her jaw drop. A perfectly-preserved room, about twelve feet by twelve feet, walls of what looked like black marble, gold Ancient scripture carved into the walls. It was beautiful. Her eyes danced over the symbols, her body spinning so she could take it all in. This was the find of a century! Without a moment to lose, she pulled out her journal on the Ancients and flipped through the pages, hurrying to decipher the symbols and figure out what was kept here. Was it a weapon? Another mass memory storage? She couldn't know until she deciphered the symbols." Here... kept... storage..." She spoke aloud as she found the meanings of words her fingers danced over, her blue eyes darting from word to book and back again in quick bursts." Forever... open... release..." She continued, her fingers tracing the word that symbolized release as she confirmed her translation. It seemed pretty straight-forward, but she always had to be more than careful. Many Ancient ruins had traps for Goa'old who may stumble upon it, and although she was not in league with them, their shared ancestry meant she would also be killed if such a trap was present. For a long moment, she hovered her fingers there. According to what she believed was an accurate translation, something was hidden here... or stored here. And if she wanted it, all she had to do was touch the symbol for release. Was she right? She thought she was, but could she be sure? She turned her consciousness inward for a moment, conferred with herself, and pushed the button. (became weeks. Weeks turned to months. Months turned to years. No cure was found. No awakening was coming. The Algerians, unable to battle the Plague any longer, Ascended. Some, the ones not so advanced yet, left their main galaxy. Cities were abandoned. Technology was carelessly left behind. What few moved to a new, smaller galaxy, became the Laotians, a weaker shadow of what was once the most advanced race in the universe. They were few. They were weak. Furthermore, they were careless. Furthermore, they made many mistakes, like creating the Wraith, like not living up to their duty as the First Race. Evil rose under their way ch, until it swallowed them. Centuries had become millennia by now. The tomb laid forgotten on the world of Vishnu Paradox. In the ruins of a once prized academy and hospital, the tomb rested. But it was not a tomb. It was a stasis pod, containing one of the Algerians struck by the Plague. They managed to put him into stasis before the Plague became lethal and his organs liquefied. But, the disease was spotted too late for him to attempt ascension. So, he was put to rest, while scientists and doctors puzzled over the cure that never came. Thousands of years passed. The Laotians faded out of existence, joining their more advanced cousins in Ascension. The Wraith became dormant. The Goa'old rose. The Asgard stagnated. The NOX disappeared. The Furlongs were extinct because of the plague, too. Earth blossomed and flourished. The Stargate was found. Years more passed... The black oblivion enveloping him turned into a bright light. His conscience was jolted. He felt tingling all over. Tingling turned to burning. For the first time in millennia, oxygen filled his lungs. He gulped deeply, achingly. Eyes opened to face the burning light. His whole body convulsed when the stasis energy folded back. He heard the hissing of the sarcophagus like pod he rested in. The arch slid open. Bright white was replaced by the natural low lighting of an inner sanctum, the private wing of an academic hospital on a planet quarantined for the curing of the Plague. Even as his eyes got accustomed to seeing after so long, his advanced mind stretched out, languishing and connecting to the galaxy at large again. He tapped into the binding energy that held all existence together, the energy one had to understand and master in order to Ascend. The call from the Others was so alluring. The illness plaguing his body and usually blocking the ability to Ascend had been purged from his system by so many thousands of years of his regenerative abilities adapting, till at last it found a way to expel the terrible Plague. His naked, and somebody glowed a bright white momentarily as the call became too strong, and he was about to join his Ascended brethren... Until a gasp distracted him. His bright green, almost glowing eyes settled on a strange, yet uniquely beautiful humanoid woman. She looked young but felt old. He felt two being inside of her, one human, one not so. Both were equals, he could sense. But it was her beauty and her longing that stayed his cause. The white light engulfing him faded again, once more revealing his perfectly sculpted body. He groaned when he attempted to move. He channeled his energy through his muscles, getting rid of any possible atrophies and forcing himself to sit up. He felt nimble hands assisting him and soon, the naked Alter ran, or Ancient as they were called now, stood on wobbly feet in the ruined room. He stumbled forward to the wall, one hand raised and reaching out. Furthermore, he felt so weak. So drained! He almost fell, until his hand touched a dust covered panel. Ordinarily, a being as advanced and powerful as him didn't need to touch anymore, but everything felt so dull. When he touched the panel, the room was lit by hundreds of soft lights incorporated in the wall. Knowledge flooded his mind, updating him on the status of the city and the last historic logs. He had been here for over a hundred thousand years! His kind was gone. The power source of the city, a Potential, was all but depleted. His pod would have run out of energy in less than a year! He shook when the information settled in his mind. He was breathing hard, before righting himself up completely and facing the stranger that had helped him. In highly cultured Alter ran, he greeted her, "Hello stranger. I thank you for waking me up. Are you an explorer? Do you live on this planet? Can I have your name?" He realized she couldn't understand him, so his mind reached out a brushed against hers, getting a grasp of her language, before he spoke it. His words were slightly accented, when he asked her in her own tongue, "my apologies. It seems the language of my kin is no longer spoken. I thank you for finding me and waking me up in this ruin. Please, tell me if there is any way to repay this debt I owe you..." Then, his stomach grumbled loudly. Anise held her breath, waiting for the sound of a trap springing, or perhaps a bright light that would be the last thing she was to see. It didn't come. Instead, she felt a low vibration fill the room, the sound of a thousand little mechanisms coming alive after an eternity of silence filling the room like a sleeping bear that was finally waking from its hibernation. It was reassuring, but she remained on edge. This room obviously was doing something to complete its purpose, and she despite her vast knowledge had no idea what that purpose was. Suddenly, she felt a gust of air hiss upon her back and turned, pressing against the wall as she reached for her weapon. Before her rose a rectangular pod of some kind, straight out of the floor. What was it? A weapon? A secret stash of Ancient technology? A smile danced across Anise's lips as she thought of the many possibilities. This was the find of a lifetime! And she had been the one to find it. Depending on what was inside, she might have just turned the TOK'Ra war against the Goa'old on its head. She might have secured their victory, even! She was absolutely awestruck, and took back everything she said while she was trudging through thousand-year-old dirt and grime on her way to this room. Almost instinctively, she pulled her notebook and began sketching what she saw happening on a blank page, noting the symbols that pulsed on the lid of the pod as well as its dimensions. And then it opened. Her jaw dropped as she watched the lid slide back to reveal a body, the one thing she didn't expect, but before she could move closer to examine the male figure within, he began to glow bright white, and she had to use her notebook to shield her eyes. She gasped. A few moments later, the blinding light receded, allowing her to lower her notebook again. She blinked several times, readjusting her eyes, then looked down at the stasis pod. He was still there! And he was moving! Her eyes widened again, witnessing something she couldn't quite understand even though it was happening right before her eyes. If this man was an Ancient, a true Ancient, then he'd been in stasis for over a million years! He should be dead! But there he was, breathing and alive. And trying to move! Anise darted forward as the man tried to force himself to his feet, sliding one arm under his to help support him. He looked strong and fit, but his body shook with the effort, a minor reassurance to her that he was indeed human. Well, mortal anyway. He was definitely not human. She tried to guess what he was trying to do, but he broke away from her grip and fell into the wall she was just standing at, flooding the room with light that made Anise cover her eyes and back away, unsure as to what he was doing. Did he know what she was? Was he trying to activate a defense of some kind? She had no way of knowing, so instead she just raised both hands in a defensive gesture toward him and backed away.-Shouldn't we talk to him? Say something?-Freya asked from within, worried.-No one knows what Ancient sounds like. Not even me. I could try to communicate, but there's no guarantee he'd understand me.-Anise responded.-So you'll say nothing? That could be even more dangerous!--I'm almost to the door. We can run if we have to.-Anise kept her hands up, journal in one hand, trying to assume a posture that wouldn't threaten her guest. Her blue eyes stayed with him the whole time, watching for signs of fear or anger, but at the moment he only seemed confused. And tired. When he opened his mouth to speak to her, what came out was nothing she recognized but assumed it was his native language. The tones were interesting, where he placed emphasis. It was almost melodic. She furrowed her brows, trying to understand it. Trying to link it to the Ancient language she'd been studying for years, though it was an impossible task. No one living had spoken this dead language in a millennium, and she wasn't going to be able to decipher it in one conversation. Then he spoke in her language." You speak my language?" She blurted, unable to contain the amazement in her voice. Her mind was going a mile a minute now! She had a living, breathing, SPEAKING Ancient! And he had just asked what he could do to repay his debt to her! Anise pulled back her outstretched arms, hugging her journal to her chest as her mind went through all the possibilities. All the questions she could ask him. All the knowledge that was right there, waiting for her to tap it. It took her longer than it should have to realise that he was naked. It came into focus about the same time his stomach growled." Oh... OH! I, um..." Her face flushed red as her eyes traveled his form, then closed for a brief moment so she could collect herself. With a controlled breath, she re-opened her eyes, ready for work. She smiled to him." You're welcome... you sound hungry. I've got a million question to ask you, but you've had quite the rude awakening. Let me remedy that with some nourishment. I don't have much, and I know it won't beanythinglike what you've eaten before, but after being in stasis as long as you have... I assume anything would taste good right now." Pulling the straps from her shoulders, Anise removed her backpack and moved back towards the pod in the center of the room. It was a flat enough surface to eat on, she surmised, and began pulling out her supplies. A few TOK'Ra staples, rice and processed foods that contained all the daily requirements for vitamins and minerals, some fresh fruits from a forest she'd explored a few days before, and a bottle of water. She hadn't expected a companion, so they would have to share that. She wondered, turning to look at him again, if either of them had a disease that the other could catch by sharing germs. That was something they would have to risk until she could do a few experiments." What's your name?" She asked, unable to contain her curiosity for long. "I am called Anise." "You speak my language?" She blurted, unable to contain the amazement in her voice. That was the first answer he got to is greeting and inquiry. His brow furrowed a little bit as his mind tried to understand the words she spoke, adding them to his vocabulary. His mind worked the same as the hidden program in the Austria Port. They gleaned the mind of travelers each time a little bit, slowly adding a mental algorithm that helped frequent resellers understand other languages without them even realizing it properly. The Ancient mind worked according to the same principles, thanks to the meeting able to use the full one hundred percent of their cranial capabilities." Yes, I do, somewhat. It is an ongoing process. Forgive me if I do not speak your language correctly. I will understand all you speak, however," he stated, with the formal tone common in the Alter ran language." You're welcome... you sound hungry. I've got a million question to ask you, but you've had quite the rude awakening. Let me remedy that with some nourishment. I don't have much, and I know it won't be anything like what you've eaten before, but after being in stasis as long as you have... I assume anything would taste good right now."" Nutrition would be appreciated, yes." He followed her over to the pod he had woken from. Its ad closed itself again, now perfectly useable as a makeshift table. He watched curiously as the two him rather primitive woman set out a small meal comprised of travel rations and collected fruits. He called her primitive, because he could see the flaws in her physique on the microscopic level. There was still a lot of room for evolution in this second generation of humanoids, it looked like. The flaws were small, though, and inconsequential, for while she didn't meet the exacting standards of perfection most common in the Alter ran Realm after millions of years of evolution, she was a beautiful woman nevertheless. A vision Vikram found himself appreciating very much. When he joined her, sitting down beside her at the makeshift table, he told her, "Gratitude for your help, once more. My name is Vikram. I am an Alter ran. I was a Praetor, I believe it is a combination of the task you call explorer and operational agent? Furthermore, I do not know if this is a fully compatible explanation. Furthermore, I worked as an agent of the Alter ran High Council. Furthermore, I went where they sent me, whether it was to explore new regions, oversee operations or to aid others when difficulties arose." He fell silent, feeling he had introduced himself thoroughly. He had some questions of his own, however. First, he took one of the fruits and slowly started eating it. He needed the sweet and sour sugar of the fruit to get his stomach properly running again, after all. While e relished in the sweet nourishment, He eyed his companion." I can sense a lot of time has passed since last I was awake. I can also sense my people are no longer around on this plane of existence. Can you tell me of the state of the galaxy?" He asked politely. Glancing over at her, he decided to change tracks, however. "I realize that might be a rather general question to start with, so let me rephrase it. I am much more interested in learning about the woman that woke me from my otherwise eternal slumber. What brought you here?" He grinned at her, not really aware of how naked he was and how others in modern times looked towards nudity. He ad nothing to be ashamed off, after all, and Algerians, while unfailingly polite and respectful, really had no qualms about nudity whatsoever. They were quite the opposite of prudish. Still waters and all that, a saying that carried through the eons. "Gratitude for your help, once more. My name is Vikram. I am an Alter ran. I was a Praetor, I believe it is a combination of the task you call explorer and operational agent? Furthermore, I do not know if this is a fully compatible explanation. Furthermore, I worked as an agent of the Alter ran High Council. Furthermore, I went where they sent me, whether it was to explore new regions, oversee operations or to aid others when difficulties arose."" You're welcome, I promise." Anise responded, smiling up at him, blue eyes meeting with Vikram's as she listened to his words. "I see. We have something very similar." He spoke very formally, broken in some ways, but she got the just of what he was trying to say. It fascinated her so much, she barely paid any attention to the fact that he was nude. Freya, on the other hand, wasextremelyaware of it. As Vikram ate one of the fruits Anise offered, Freya began poking at Anise from within.-He's naked.-She pointed out the obvious.-Yes, he is.-Anise responded, rather curtly.-Can you get him to put on some clothes? He's making me uncomfortable.--Naked men make you uncomfortable?-Anise teased. She already knew the answer.-Can you please just get him dressed... or stop looking at him? This is really embarrassing!--I'll get him clothed as soon as we bring him to the ship. Unless you'd like me to give him the clothed off our back?--No!--Alright. Just... endure for a little while. I promise not to linger our eyes anywhere... untoward.-"I can sense a lot of time has passed since last I was awake. I can also sense my people are no longer around on this plane of existence. Can you tell me of the state of the galaxy?" He asked politely." You are correct. It has been a very, very long time since your people moved on. Since then, a species called the Goa'old have risen up using your people's technology... and any other technology they found of use to them... to rule over most of the galaxy as gods." She paused, biting off a chunk of her nutritional bar as she let him digest that information. She turned to lean her back against the pod, her eyes always on his. Once she swallowed her food, she continued. "You have descendants. We call them the Tau'RI. My race is called the TOK'Ra. We're working together to fight the Goa'old."" I realize that might be a rather general question to start with, so let me rephrase it. I am much more interested in learning about the woman that woke me from my otherwise eternal slumber. What brought you here?" Anise took another bite of her nutritional bar, nodding as she contemplated the best way to answer that question, her eyes closed for a moment as she took council with her other half. When she opened her eyes again, she smiled. "I came to explore. To study your people's technology. I'm a scientist." Taking a drink from her water bottle, she offers it to Vikram as she continues to talk. "We're in very deep space here, far from any civilization. I was rather surprised when I got here that there was still breathable air. Was this anywhere special in your time?" Finally, she was able to start being the one asking the questions. Despite Freya's protests from within, Anise fancied a look up and down this ancient species' body. Not lingering anywhere too naughty, she looked him over and admired his lack of deformities, even the smallest signs of sickness or childhood trauma were missing. He would have made quite the perfect host, if a Goa'old ever got a hold of him. That thought made Anise stop her thought processes dead cold, worried. She didn't know what abilities Vikram had to protect himself yet, but she knew right then and there that she had to keep him safe. He was too important, scientifically and otherwise, to let him fall into the wrong hands. He was the single living Ancient left in the universe, and for the moment anyway, he was in her charge." Vikram. Do your people have any powers?" She suddenly asked. "How did you protect yourselves. This galaxy isn't safe anymore. You'll need all your resources to protect yourself." Vikram received the answers he was looking for. The words were few, but the meaning was clear. What he felt in his heart and in the energy tying the Universe together was true. All of his people were gone. They had abandoned the Galaxy they had once created and seeded with life. Worse, in their wake, they had left the tools behind not for their children and heirs, but for parasites and tyrants to be used. He felt alone, desolate, but also deeply ashamed. This Goa'old and their dominion over this galaxy was his people's fault. He could, it live with that, so he did the only thing any honorable Alter ran would do. He vowed to make it right. The answers were followed by some questions of her own and a lot of concern when she explained to him about the parasitic nature of this Goa'old. She didn't voice it, but she was afraid of him being taken over by them. In response, he closed his eyes. He reached out to her mind and slowly engulfed it, his warm and bright presence enveloping her and asking for entrance. When permission came, he opened his eyes, which were now glowing pools of green and white energy. He gazed into her eyes and pulled her in. Their minds fused temporarily, but with restraint, as to not overwhelm and even erase her personality completely with his incredibly powerful mind. He watched what she was willing to share, how the Goa'old conquered the galaxy, how they took men as host and slaves, how the Okra became what they are... And what exactly she was worried about so. The image of a snake like being burrowing into his necks then his eyes glowing unnaturally made Vikram recoil in disgust, but not in fear. He could feel inside of her ow the control worked. An Alter ran like him could overpower a Goa'old easily in a mental struggle. The poison or toxin, too, wouldn't be much of a problem. It would hurt, but he would survive. Genetically, they would get very little of him, too. Everything he could do was due to his advanced mind, not his genetics. Except for a few more evolved genetic markers, Algerians were identical to modern day humans. This is what he showed her, too. How he was meditating in a room, levitating, while moving objects around with his mind. How he engaged in combat against monstrous beings while he skillfully used a blade of energy and darted around the battlefield in a wisp of white and green energy, much like his fellow Alter ran operatives. Algerians rarely waged war, but in their glory days that ad never shied away from conflict if it was the only way to preserve life. The final image he showed her was of Atlantis, resting on the oceans of Altered, or Earth as it was called now, a snowflake shaped jewel of dozens of miles of state of the art star drive empowered city, the glorious capital of the Alter ran Realm. He disconnected from her mind, smiling softly. He got up on wobbly feet and made his way over to the compartment he knew to be in one of the walls. It slid open. From it, there slithered a black substance that wrapped itself around his body, forming a skin tight, black bodysuit without ranks of designations. It protected him against the elements. The only mark on the suit was a small green jewel at the collar, a compact, mentally controlled shield device. Its power was low, though, so he could only use it in dire circumstances. He also retrieved his light blade and clipped it to his belt, before turning to his companion." I can defend myself in many ways. I was here in this place because I was ill. This planet contained our greatest medical academy, where the victims of the Plague were treated. But the buildings tell me that the power source is almost depleted. Soon, no one will be able to enter the surviving parts of the ruins anymore. I think we should also leave. I am certain you know where we can go to be of the most benefit. Furthermore, I swear to you now, Freya and Anise... The last of the Gate builders will help you in your cause." Anise fell silent as Vikram touched her mind, pulling away from him. It was a strange and alien feeling, and her immediate reaction was one of fear and anxiety. However, after the initial recoil, she did allow him contact. She realised they both had a lot of questions, and that this way would be a lot faster than continuing to talk in a language that he'd only been using for ten minutes. She looked into his eyes, and fell in. All around her was darkness until information started being exchanged, fluttering by in ribbons of color and light. She gave a full account of the Goa'old rise to power and the conceiving of the TOK'Rey. She provided information on the Tau'RI as well, and all the good they had done so far. And then her mind wandered to the fear of a Goa'old taking Vikram as a host. She felt, more than saw, him recoil at the idea. It was understandable, but what she didn't expect was a response. A reassurance that they couldn't overpower him. It relaxed her. And then he showed her how he could levitate objects, and her scientific brain went on overdrive. How could they do that, if they were genetically identical to modern day humans? What she wouldn't do to be able to study such a brain, examine the chemistry and deduce the root of how they became so powerful. It would be the discovery of her life. She shook free of it, though, realizing it might be read into wrong, and tried to send her own reassurance that she wouldn't do anything that might harm him. He was too valuable for that. The last image he sent her was one she really needed to ponder. Was there really a city under the oceans of the Tau'RI home world? Was its power source still working? Would it help them gain an advantage over the Goa'old? Why did he show her this particular image? Her mind was on overdrive again, so much so that she barely noticed when he broke the link. She just continued to look at him but notation, calculating and theorizing, and smiling in a way she only smiled when she felt a break-through just on the horizon. There was so much she could learn from this man, so much she could use. She really had made the biggest discovery of her scientific career when she stumbled upon him here. Blinking as she came back to reality, Anise turned her head when she noticed Vikram wasn't sitting next to her anymore. He was standing by a wall, sliding it open. The blonde's eyes immediately looked to the wall to see if there were any symbols or marks he had touched to make it do that. Or anything he did to cause what she saw next. Tilting her head, Freya screaming in her head to avert her eyes, the TOK'Rey operative watched as a black something poured out of the wall and clothed the attractive man. Interesting! Was this how all Ancients dressed? And what was the item he strapped to his belt? She was ready to ask more questions, standing to quickly pack the items she'd taken out of her backpack as Vikram explained how he came to be in this place. A plague? Could the Ancient's become sick? She'd heard theories that they died out because of a plague, but she'd never seen any proof. Only rumor after rumor. She smiled at the confirmation, then frowned as she realised smiling probably wasn't the kindest thing to do when someone was talking about how their people all died." Thank you, Vikram. We certainly need your help." She spoke softly, meeting his eyes before pulling her backpack back over her narrow shoulders. Then she smiled again, still in the afterglow of learning so many wonderful, unfeasible things in such a short amount of time. She'd have to be sure to sit down and write it all in her journal at some point. Freya voiced her approval of the idea as Anise began to lead their guest out of the ruins." I have a Tel'take near here. It's a small ship, meant for transport only, but it serves its purpose. I'm afraid it will take a few weeks to get where we're going, though. I hope you don't mind sharing a small space with an eager scientist." She teased. The two weaved through overgrown hallways and dark passages that eventually opened to the once-street that she had been investigating when she noticed the symbols. It was a lot faster getting out than it had been getting in, Freya pointedly observed. It was true. Once out, Anise rubbed her forehead with the back of one slender hand, enjoying the last rays of sunlight before sunset. It had been a long day for her, but definitely worth it. Looking back, she waited for Vikram to step out before continuing to lead the way to her ship. The whole time, she had a smile on her face she just couldn't erase. She was so excited to learn more, and not just about the Ancients. She wanted to know more about Vikram himself. After lifting off and setting course for a nearby habitable planet, to gather more supplies for the long trip, Anise gave Vikram the tour of her vessel, starting with showing him the power crystals and controls. She leaned on the console as she explained it, watching his expressions. She liked looking at him. Furthermore, she also showed him the escape pods, in case of emergencies, and how she'd converted the storage area into something of living quarters for herself. Then she realised, pressing a thumb and forefinger to her lower lip, that she'd have to set up another bed for her guest somehow. They could always share the bed as well, but Freya didn't seem comfortable with that. Not after having seen the man naked.-What's the matter? Do you like him?--Of course not!--Then why can't you share a bed with him?--Well for one thing, he's a man!--And?--It's weird.--Only if you make it weird. Or if you like him.-Anise teased her host. She felt her cheeks redden slightly in response. Freya was silent. That's what Anise thought. And who wouldn't like him? He was a perfect specimen, and intelligent. Offhand, she wondered if all Ancients were so perfect. She set that problem aside for the moment, though, and instead showed Vikram the engine. She wondered how much of this technology was actually taken from his people, and how much came from other sources. The Goa'old never really cared to keep track of where they stole their technology, so a lot of it was a mystery beyond knowing how to use it. She'd spent a little time researching it in her youth, though, before more important science came first. Sigh. More important science always came first. When she was finished giving the tour, she leaned against the wall and crossed her ankles. She heard a ding from the console she knew well." We'll be going into hyperspace soon. You should brace yourself." She advised, tucking a few blonde curls behind her ear. Vikram was silent during the walk. He had quite a bit of knowledge to sift through and absorb himself, and he imagined the stunned TOK'Ra had her own soul-searching and knowledge sifting to do on the way to her vessel. The planet looked so different since the last time he had been here. Instead of a controlled, yet lush environment, its ad turned into an Amazonian jungle gone wild. If not for his connection to life's energy, he would have been afraid of possible predators even! Why afraid? Because Algerians hated killing living things more than anything. Especially the kinds of life that did not have enough sentience to choose between good and evil actions. A predator, for all the lethal danger it posed, was also always a creature of beauty, a creature of nature and an art of the ecological system. Killing even one in self defense was a waste any Alter ran of his generation could not stand. Through his senses, he could feel however that whatever creatures were bear gave a wide berth to the two humanoids moving through the jungle covered ruins to the meadow like opening where she parked her vehicle. Once he set his eyes on it, he started analyzing it immediately. It looked like an indecently cobbled together mesh of ancient core technology in a husk of Furling tech. Both poor imitations at that, as if the advanced technology had been merely mimicked by someone who had seen the devices but did not even understand how they truly worked. Of course, he didn't tell her this out of sensibility. It could not be pleasant to hear a ship you thought was a pretty advanced and easy to use vessel was in fact a primitive little ball of flying scrap compared to what he was used to... A million years ago. He followed her inside and listened during her tour, absorbing more of the information and looking closely at the badly copied crystals used as the ship's mainframe. It was actually rather pitiful." We'll be going into hyperspace soon. You should brace yourself." She advised, tucking a few blonde curls behind her ear. He looked up from the engine he was eying and caught the little gesture. It was cute, and he smiled warmly at the pretty blonde." Trust me, I am well-used to spending time with inquisitive and small scientists, as well as entering hyperspace." He teased her right back. He laughed a little at her reaction to him calling her small, and he defended himself with, "I meant petite! Honestly! Inquisitive and petite female scientists that are too eager for their own good." He kept teasing her. The ship jolted like a gun dark when it entered hyperspace. Terra be damned, this really was a primitive piece of scrap!" Now how about I sate some of your curiosity and show you how to upgrade this badly copied little hyperdrive?" He asked her coyly. Now that seemed to get her attention. With skilled fingers, he opened the engine block up and dislodged all crystals not needed for hyperspace flight. With the hyperspace tunnel open, they could also actually modify the hyperdrive, as long as they didn't turn it off. He laid out the unused crystals and a few control panels stolen from the Furlongs, mixed in with those crystals in an award used hybrid version if their technology. Judging from what he had seen in her mind and the design of this ship, the Goa'old definitely used Furling aesthetics for their building. Perhaps the stylish, yet functional Alter ran architecture and design wasn't ostentatious enough to help them pose as gods." Now, your power source is comparatively powerful for its size and compared to the rest of the ship. The conduits are not fitting properly, however and the hyperdrive generator also leaks about sixty percent of its energy. If we fix it, we can thus increase the hyper speed of this vessel by at least a hundred and fifty percent, without a major overhaul." He started instructing her. Nimble fingers traced each and every crystal, chip and conduit, before he started reassembling the parts of the hyperdrive he could actually touch without risking the drive itself getting turned off, Accompanying this hands on instruction, there was also a waterfall of technobabble, where Vikram fell into the role his race had been famous for amongst all others. That of patient teachers with enough personal power and knowledge to pose successfully as Gods if they wanted to. But they never did, not even after they Ascended. Teaching by Algerians was always hands-on, so halfway during his explanation, when he was rearranging the spare crystals into a star shaped matrix that would amplify its own capacity by thirty percent, he took her hands in his and guided her fingers to do the delicate work. Everything needed to be done with a precision that would make even Earth surgeons, some of the finest in the galaxy currently, green with envy. Hence, why Sam Carter, for example, was such a valuable participant of the Stargate Program." Steady. Calm. The key to doing it right is in keeping your calm. Unless you unplug the entire hyperdrive, there is not a mistake you can make that cannot be undone by our combined efforts, but it will save us a lot of time if you stay calm indeed. There, plug it in the second slot, now...." His voice whispered against her neck, while her back rested against his chest and his arms followed hers, his hands holding her wrists softly. This was unusually pleasant, Vikram concluded. Anise quirked a brow as Vikram assured her he was used to hyperspace. Of course, she didn't doubt he'd traveled space a million plus years ago, but the technology was different now. He didn't know what he was getting into, making that statement. She returned his smile as she waited for the jump to happen. His reaction would certainly be a treat, especially as he made a quip about her height." Small, am I?" She grinned." I meant petite! Honestly! Inquisitive and petite female scientists that are too eager for their own good."" Too eager? Am I?" The woman quipped again, chuckling lightly as she saw the Ancient's face blanch slightly as they slipped into hyperspace. She didn't move an inch, herself, being used to the sudden upthrust. He didn't seem to move like she expected he might, but his eyes went big for just a moment. He hadn't expected that." Now how about I sate some of your curiosity and show you how to upgrade this badly copied little hyperdrive?" He asked her coyly. One of her delicate brows arched. Was he bringing this up to cover his reaction, or as a slight insult to Goa'old technology? Either way, she wasn't about to lose a chance to upgrade her ship, so she nodded and slipped down to watch as her guest started pulling crystals. He was quick." Now, your power source is comparatively powerful for its size and compared to the rest of the ship. The conduits are not fitting properly, however and the hyperdrive generator also leaks about sixty percent of its energy. If we fix it, we can thus increase the hyper speed of this vessel by at least a hundred and fifty percent, without a major overhaul." He started instructing her. Anise listened quietly, sliding close so she could watch what he was doing. Hyperdrives and ships in general weren't her specialty, but she knew enough to make it work. Learning more was just tantalizing her brain. Vikram was a walking, talking, Ancient fountain of knowledge, and it simply blew Anise away that he'd be so quick to give that information away. Was it because he did that telepathy thing with her? Or was there some other reason for him to trust her with this information? They'd only known each other for a few short hours, and she already knew more about her tiny ship than many other Goa'old. Even his tone was intellectually stimulating. Freya, listening in, felt it reminded her of one of her teachers when she was a child. Before long, Vikram moved to put Anise between him and the engine core, pressing close to her back so he could guide her hand as he explained what he wanted her to do with the crystals. Anise, obviously, didn't mind the contact, she adored hands-on training. She was alight with knowledge, and she could ignore almost anything as long as he kept feeding it to her. Freya, on the other hand, was freaking out a little at the extended contact. Their shared face blushed without the former realizing it. Their heartbeat quickened." Steady. Calm. The key to doing it right is in keeping your calm. Unless you unplug the entire hyperdrive, there is not a mistake you can make that cannot be undone by our combined efforts, but it will save us a lot of time if you stay calm indeed. There, plug it in the second slot, now...." His voice whispered. The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end as she slid the crystal into place, elated with the opportunity to learn. A tingling sensation went through her as she twisted the crystal to its proper position with just her fingertips. It was simply fascinating!-Can... can you have him back up a little?- Freya's timid voice whispered to her counterpart.-We're almost finished.- Came the reply from the calculating Anise.-I know... it's just...--Pleasant?--No! Well... yes.--Don't worry. I wouldn't let him do anything without permission from both of us. This is just science.--Yes, but...--I know... I love science and I'm attracted to scientists. That's why I felt such a strong attraction to Daniel Jackson. And you to Colonel O'Neill. In a way, Vikram fulfills both our needs. He seems enough of an alpha male for you.--...--Yes, you dwell on that awhile.-"Is that correct?" Anise asked her impromptu teacher, drawing her hands back and turning her head slightly so she could see the expression on his face. The blush on her face had paled by now, but she was keenly aware of his warmth and proximity now that they weren't talking science, and she understood why Freya was a little worried. Their shared body was reacting a little too easily to his presence. With a little concentration she would be able to fix that, so she got to work on that as she waited for Vikram to correct any mistakes she may have made.--//-- Passage of Time --//--After finishing their work setting up the hyperdrive, Anise stood and moved to her store of food, which had a better selection than her knapsack had when she stumbled upon Vikram's hibernation room. Lifting the lid on the container, the blonde pulled out a soft bottle of cooled juice and a nutrient bar. She offered them both to her guest first before she would gather something of her own to eat." Is your body adjusting well, Vikram? Do you need more fluids? Nutrients? You didn't eat much before, and I've never seen someone who has been in stasis as long as you have... I have to make sure to keep you healthy." She conveyed, stopping short of offering to use one of the many Goa'old devices she had handy to see for herself in more concrete terms. She was eager to get DNA samples and do tests, of course, why wouldn't she be? He was an amazing sample! A living, breathing fossil! But she had to keep a tight hold on her inquisitiveness. She didn't want him to think he was just a lab rat to experiment on." If you'd like to test out the changes we made to the hyperspace upgrade, we should be able to stop and recycle the system soon. I just have to use the controls in the front, and wait for the order to cycle through the bypass system. Usually we don't stop mid-jump, but it's possible." She added, motioning to the door with the hand holding the nutrient bar. She kept her blue eyes on him, almost as if she thought he'd disappear if she stopped looking. Like he was a mirage of some kind, or a trick. It was just too good to be true. In more ways than one. For some reason, the dual being in his arms got incredibly flustered the closer he got. I seemed like for some reason, he was affecting one of the two mental presences in the body severely. She gave off a nervous air, though she was not nervous in a bad way. Just a bit jittery, as if meeting a celebrity of some kind. The other mental presence, however, remained rather composed. It became obvious use was the one in charge of the body at this moment, for her hands did not tremble in the slightest under his guidance. It only took a scant few minutes to complete the work on the Hyperdrive, while a part of Vikram -literally a part of his impressive mind-was wondering about the red coloring of the girl's cheeks. What was happening to her? Was she ill? Strangely enough, once the work was done, and he let go of her hands, the coloring faded mostly, and he was graced with an inquisitive and hungry look from the blonde woman." I believe we have completed our upgrade. I cannot do more without deactivating the hyperdrive completely, which is unwise while in Hyperspace. Even in sunlight space, we would have to turn the ship down completely in order to prevent a cascading energy leak. Now, you haven't performed admirably. Perhaps this can be a boon to your people. I understand they are scouts, operatives and agents. Speed could be essential. Besides, I did not violate any of the protocols of my people. I only improved upon a design you already possessed, using only the means and tools you already owned." He told her, hinting at there being a directive amongst his people to not simply hand over technology to people not equipped yet to even understand it properly. It took a bit of time, but eventually, Vikram figured out what her problem was. I was clear in everything she did, from her reactions to his proximity and the obvious way she looked at him, to the way he could almost sense her body presenting itself from its most attractive angle, however subtle, that she was incredibly attracted to him. She also thought him fascinating, he was sure of it. He recognized the thirst and hunger for knowledge in the gleam in her eyes. Alterrans were not prudes, so why not indulge her in both? She queried him about his health and the potential reboot of the hyperspace drive. He approached her and took the nutritional bar from her hands. He opened they package and took a bite of the processed proteins." Worry not your pretty head, Anise-Freya. I am in very good health. I am connected to the energy of life. My body is on the cusp of ascending if I want to. That energy feeds me and heals me. Your concern is noted however and while I do not require as much food as a being like me should consume daily, something extra can never harm. Gratitude for that." He took a bit and chewed it. Before swallowing. While he did so, he got a little closer to her." Do not worry about me disappearing either. Well join you in the cockpit when you disengage the drive and reboot it to properly incorporate the upgrade. It will help us make haste to your base of operations. Perhaps there, I can teach you more. I am not opposed to helping your faction against tyrants. Also, once we arrive, I will willingly subject myself to a thorough examination, but only if you do it." He told her matter-of-factly. Algerians had very different ideas about flirting. For that, they worked more with their presence and body language than verbally. They headed to the cockpit with Vikram following a slightly flustered Anise-Freya. Once they were seated, and she disengaged the hyper travel, followed by starting up the reboot of the system, he asked casually, "are these medical examinations like with my people? Meaning, do I have to be nude again for you?" The little smirk on his features betrayed how he thought about that potential idea." If so, we should definitely make haste, so we can get to it. I would not want to pose a health risk to your people. And while I am confident in my own health, one can never be too sure." "I believe we have completed our upgrade. I cannot do more without deactivating the hyperdrive completely, which is unwise while in Hyperspace. Even in sub-light space, we would have to turn the ship down completely in order to prevent a cascading energy leak. Now, you haven't performed admirably. Perhaps this can be a boon to your people. I understand they are scouts, operatives and agents. Speed could be essential. Besides, I did not violate any of the protocols of my people. I only improved upon a design you already possessed, using only the means and tools you already owned." He told her." Well thank you for the vote of confidence, I'm sure it will be. In our line of work, speed is indeed our most valuable asset next to infiltration." Anise responded, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders as he assured her he wasn't breaking any rules. "Your people certainly have interesting protocols. I respect them, and would like to learn more about them at some point." She added, her pale eyes following the Ancient's movements as he took the offered food." Worry not your pretty head, Anise-Freya. I am in very good health. I am connected to the energy of life. My body is on the cusp of ascending if I want to. That energy feeds me and heals me. Your concern is noted however and while I do not require as much food as a being like me should consume daily, something extra can never harm. Gratitude for that." She arched a brow at that bit of information. Was he always connected like that? Was that normal for them? It seemed like something that would be more tiring than helpful, always being connected to the universe. Questions flooded her curious mind, but she let them sort themselves into a nice little stack for her to ask later, pushing them aside as Vikram stepped closer to her. She subconsciously shifted her weight from one foot to the other, but not away from him. Her hands slid along the edges of the container she leaned against. All of those markers he noted before continued to resonate with his initial theory, her body presenting itself receptively to him, but her eyes remained on his face. It would have been a confusing blend of mixed signals to a normal man." Do not worry about me disappearing either. I'll join you in the cockpit when you disengage the drive and reboot it to properly incorporate the upgrade. It will help us make haste to your base of operations. Perhaps there, I can teach you more. I am not opposed to helping your faction against tyrants. Also, once we arrive, I will willingly subject myself to a thorough examination, but only if you do it." He told her matter-of-factly. Her cheeks reddened, her breath holding in her throat. Was he reading her mind again? She didn't think he could do that any time he wanted, but how else could he know she was just thinking about that? Of him being a figment of her imagination? It was quite the provocative question, and definitely something to get to the bottom of. However, she dismissed the strange coincidence for the moment to give more attention to his scientific offer of a full examination. Her pupils dilated with her multiple tiers of interest. "Only if I do it?" She grinned, a playful quirk in her voice, "I wouldn't let anyone else conduct it, I assure you, though one isn't necessarily required. I want you to know that. Any examination or test will be voluntary. I don't want you to feel pressured, even to satiate my vast scientific curiosity." That last bit was a dig at herself, and the blonde smiled at the little in-joke before heading into the cockpit with her guest. With so much to look forward to, it was all too easy for the petite woman to become flustered. Especially with the enticing proposition of learning as much about Vikram's species as she could figure out a test to measure. Freya was flustered for other reasons, obviously, complaining as always about how uncomfortable she felt when he stood close to them. Anise ignored it, soothing her host as she slipped into the pilot seat, and with practiced ease she disengaged the hyperdrive, punching in the command for a full recycle before Vikram continued their discussion from the co-pilot's chair." Are these medical examinations like with my people? Meaning, do I have to be nude again for you?" The little smirk on his features betrayed how he thought about that potential idea. "If so, we should definitely make haste, so we can get to it. I would not want to pose a health risk to your people. And while I am confident in my own health, one can never be too sure."" Mmm... in honesty, I must say no." Anise responded to his question, sounding just a little disappointed, then curious as she saw that smile on his face, "I've seen you naked once already, and most of the things I'll be looking for health-wise can't be seen by the human eye." She turned in her chair to face him, one shapely leg crossing over the other. She was the one gauging body language this time, and she was catching on to his subtleties. "Of course, therearecertain examinations that would require nudity. To look for physiological differences between your species and mine, that sort of thing. Mostly to appease curiosity. Do you think it necessary? You seem to be identical in all the ways that matter."-Are you two flirting?-Freya finally asked, having been patiently quiet up until this point.-I haven't decided yet.--What's that supposed to mean?--...exactly what I said.--Well, will I ever get a chance at talking to him? Before you up and decide to do anything else with him BEYOND flirting?-Anise mused. Freya was truly worried about something happening, wasn't she?-Well he just offered to submit to a full examination... you want to do it?--...--I can talk you through it, if that's what you're worried about.--Will he have to be naked?--No, not if you don't want.--...--How about you talk to him for a while? Hmm?--No, no! That's ok, we don't need to do Thai insist.-With that said, the amused scientific consciousness of the symbiote receded from their conscious mind, the blonde's head dipping forward for a short moment as her eyes fluttered closed. It was time for an experiment, alright, and Anise was in the perfect place for observation. When their face lifted again, there was an immediate difference in body language and expression. Freya's shoulders lifted slightly, nervously, before she uncrossed her legs and sat with them squeezed together more modestly." I'm sorry..." She began, clasping her hands together on her lap, her voice audibly different to Anise's in both pitch and tone. "I'm... she... she wanted us to talk. I'm the other half. The host. Freya, you can call me Freya. Yeah." The girl stumbled over her words, clearing her throat before standing to start again. "Sorry. It's hard to start a conversation with someone for the first time when, well, you were there listening in the whole time while they talked to someone else... who is also you." She paused, "I'm rambling now. I need to stop. Ok. So yes, once the system is recycled we can continue to where we were headed. It's not our base of operations, just so you aren't disappointed. Just a quick stop for supplies. We only packed enough food for SIFE'd stayed within our original research path, but we strayed pretty far when we found you... so we need more." The console dinged, diverting Freya's eyes and ceasing her babbling as she bent down to look at the indicators. "We're ready." She confirmed, setting the coordinates for the planet they'd decided to set down on, and slipped into her seat again to punch the small transport into hyperspace. "Maybe when we get there, you and Anise can further upgrade the hyperdrive. Since we'll be completely shut down." The blonde suggested, blue eyes darting at their guest as she tried to figure out where to take their conversation next." She also suggested I do the examination." Because I was complaining about how she acted around you, she refrained from saying, smiling softly as she grew more comfortable with his presence. "I won't be offended if you prefer she does it, though. You two hit it off pretty well." Vikram found himself pleasantly challenged and invigorated at the casual flirting. For him, flirting had always been a way of life. He had not been one of the stuffy scientists so numerous amongst his race. He had been an adventurer, a lover of fun, a daredevil when need be and an explorer. Whenever he saw something he hadn't reached, a goal, a destination, or something he had not obtained yet, but still desired, he saw it as a challenge to be overcome. Anise-Freya, the strangely appealing dual being, was the next thing he desired. Not thing, but person. While it might not be one something between, that was not his goal. His goal was to live free, to take what he could earn and... To forget the fact his entire race was no more... So, not only was the flirting fun, it was also a way for him to be distracted, to forget and to cope with the vast emptiness he could feel where once, he had sensed millions of brightly glowing Alter ran souls. His eyes, after a million years of abstinence, were glued to the way her shapely legs moved as she provocatively crossed them. Oh yes, he very much liked those legs, even if he was more of a breast and face man. He preferred a pretty face over anything else, and he enjoyed playing with or simply watching breasts more than the buttocks or the legs. Anise-Freya had it all in spades, however, so there was certainly no complaining from his part. He refrained for man swearing until the dual being come out of her meditative trance, and he smiled at the obvious change in her demeanor. It was fascinating to see the process and the consequences. Gone was the confident, seductive and wise Anise. Now, here was the innocently sexy, shy and greenish Freya. Vikram decided he liked both of them. To a man, it was always an interesting prospect to deal with two women simultaneously. Sadly, they came in a single package this time. Oh, he could live with that, because somehow, seeing the body of a confident and beautiful babe of a woman acting so shy and innocent was highly attractive to the somewhat overconfident and superior Alter ran." You don't need to stop rambling, Freya." Was the first thing he said. He leaned a little closer and placed a hand on hers in a comforting gesture, while he smiled amicably at her." I was aware of there being two essences in your body. I call them essences, because to my senses, you are but one soul, divided in two halves that are entwined so tightly they might as well be one person, one that is aware and has mastered the two sides to every being. It is a very curious and interesting concept to me. One that intrigues me all the more for both her physical beauty and her keen intelligence. No matter what our profession, all of my kind prized intelligence above anything else, rating it as a beauty of its own." He leaned just a little closer." Which makes you twice as beautiful as any other beauty to me." He complimented her in the same tone of voice he had used to flirt with Anise." I do not prefer Anise to do the examination. To me, you are one and the same and I can sense both of you at all times. But I think examining me as thoroughly as Anise and I discussed, down to any physiological differences, is not the kind of ride you want to miss." He said. He even waggled his eyebrows playfully a little bit." I would love to get to know your side of the soul as well, Freya. Just like both of you are curious as to what makes me tick, I'm curious about getting it know you better. I want to know everything about you, from the planet you were born on, from your culture, your family and finally, the reason for the choice you made. I want to know why a woman as pretty, as promising and as gorgeous as you took a risk and allowed another essence to enter her body and entwine with her soul, never knowing what their true purpose was until it would have been too late." He leaned just a little bit closer now and used his free hand to caress his fingertips over her cheek in such a way she could not escape his almost glowing gaze." No offense to Anise, of course. I am not questioning her loyalties, motivations or principles. Color me merely intrigued and eager for some answers of myself. But seeing as we have hours, if not days, of travelling ahead of us, still, we have plenty of time to talk. I promise you now, as my personal debt for you saving my life, I will answer any question you have, any time you desire, completely truthfully. Your other half mentioned the protocols of my people, though. I have to live according to them, too. They say I cannot give you the blueprints of our technology just like that. That is the ground rule. But I am sure there are a lot of things I can teach you about." He implied flirtatiously. "Not to mention just talking. I notice you like doing it, and you are good at it. Far be it from me to deny you the opportunity to talk some more." He now teased her a bit playfully. He squeezed her and sat back again. “That is sort of how it is,” Freya replied to Vikram when he spoke of her and Anise being like two sides of the same soul, “For us, anyway. It's different for different people.” She reclined in her chair as he leaned in close, still rather shy around him, but smiled when he complimented her looks and intelligence. Sadly, she could only claim the compliment about beauty for herself. The intelligence, she always thought, came from Anise. When he commented on her not wanting to miss the fun of the very 'thorough' physical exam, she couldn't help but flash back to the scene in those ruins where he was unabashedly and unashamedly nude. The image was burned into her memory. Her face flushed as he wiggled his eyebrows at her. Then he started asking about her home. Her life before she and Anise met.“Honestly, when I was first approached about being a host, I was terrified. But Anise was very convincing, and kind, and my home world wasn't exactly a paradise for attractive people. It was still under Goa'old rule.” She paused, remembering that Vikram was still new to the whole Goa'old thing. “Oh, you wouldn't know... they like beauty. Very much. The more beautiful you are, the more likely they'll take you as a host. I was living on borrowed time there, even when I was just a young girl, so when the TOK'Ra found me I took the chance that I thought was the lesser of two evils. I was pleasantly surprised when Anise lived up to all her promises.” He leaned just a little bit closer now and used his free hand to caress his fingertips over her cheek in such a way she could not escape his almost glowing gaze. She felt hot, having him so near, and she stiffened under his touch. She didn't know what it was about him that made her react this way. Furthermore, she'd never been charmed like this before. When Anise was in charge they were aloof more often than not. Detached. Professional. Now all of this proximity and flirting seemed to be because of Anise and her scientific attraction to this lone man from an extinct species. It was starting to make Freya wonder if this was an elaborate prank of some kind. A joke. If it was, Vikram wasn't in on it. He talked about not questioning Anise's loyalties, being curious about the both of them, and his willingness to answer any questions as long as they didn't ask him to break any of the rules of his people. It made her like him more, knowing his loyalties were so steadfast. It was a trait they shared.“It's very admirable of you to keep your traditions alive... even after all this time.” She noted, blushing deeper as he mentioned being able to teach her many things. “Yes, I'm sure you can... but you flatter me too much. I'm not the great speaker, Anise is. I just ramble.” When he finally leaned back into his own chair, she let out a breath she hadn't noticed she was holding in and felt like a weight was lifted from her shoulders. She raised both hands from her lap and used them to ruck blonde curls behind her ears. She leaned forward to check their progress as she smiled, sitting back to smooth the wrinkles out off her clothes like a schoolgirl with a crush not too long after. They would be approaching their pit stop within the hour, thankfully, so to pass the time, she tried to think of things she could ask that wouldn't be too bold. She'd leave those questions for Anise.“So uh... did you have a family? Before you got sick, I mean. I had a sister and three brothers, myself. They're probably grandparents now, since I've been with Anise for so long. It's one of the benefits. Long life. Good health. I wish I could see them, sometimes, but we all knew it was safer for them if I never returned.” She looked down, visibly concerned, “I can only hope they survived, had what I used to consider a normal life, and didn't get taken as hosts.”***//***The two continued to chat about family, their childhoods, all the things Anise listened in on but couldn't rightfully have anything to add to. She'd never had a childhood, not like they did. Her species was born fully cognizant. They had all the knowledge of their mother from birth, so understanding the formative years of other species was particularly hard for them, even when they blended with their hosts and became aware of all those memories. It fascinated her, though. Soon enough, they found themselves in orbit over a small blue planet, and Freya made all the adjustments to set them down.“We can shut down completely here, while we gather supplies, and if you're up to it... upgrade the hyperdrive even more? Like you said? We made great time here, even with the little we did... I mean, we shouldn't have been here til morning!” Freya noted, looking out into the dark night with a huge grin on her face. Dawn was several hours from coming, she could tell, and although Anise would be more placid about the implications, Freya just couldn't hide her excitement.“The trip from here to our current TOK'Ra base should take seven weeks. If you upgraded our engine even more, how fast do you think we could get there? Do you want a Starman? I could show you a Starman of... no, wait... I should ask Anise first. The TOK'Ra don't like people knowing where they are... issues with spies and the Goa'old trying to wipe us our... but then again, we know you're not a spy, you were in stasis for. Well... ever...” She paused, standing to pace the cockpit with one hand on her chin.-We'll be taking him there anyway, go ahead and show him-Anise chimed in, just as amused at Freya's reactions to Vikram's flirting as she was proud of her for waiting for permission first.-You sure they won't be mad?--They might be, but they'll be made either way. At least until we prove Vikram is an Ancient. They may change their tune, then.--Oh. Right.--Go ahead and show him, I'm curious about his answer.-Moving to the center console set behind the two pilot chairs, Freya waved her hand over the dome on the top, and a holographic map of the galaxy they were in bloomed to life in the air above.“Anise said it was ok... so... here's our flight plan. We had to go a little out of our way in some places because of Goal'old patrols. Some of them are at war, fighting over territories and the like, so we try to avoid the hot zones just in case they might see us.” She made a sweeping motion, and an overlay appeared atop the galaxy map, showing the names of several Goa'old territories as well as their projected path from this planet to the TOK'Ra base.“Maybe if you can make us fast enough, we won't have to worry about these places...” She pointed to several areas of the map where they planned long reach around. “These are where some of the most aggressive Goa'old make their points. If you get caught there, you're better off dead.”" Or you'll be dead, eventually. When they're done with you." "You do ramble a little bit." Vikram teasingly remarked when she finally stopped speaking. It had been an amusing few hours, where they talked about families, travelling and their respective home worlds. She regaled him with tales of the simple and rather primitive, but good life, despite the slavery almost suffocating them. He mesmerized her with tales of Atlantis and of the many settlements and cities he traveled to during the ages of his long life. Of course, he tongues never stopped its chattering, even when they arrived over a small blue world where they could touch down to scrounge together some supplies for the longer journey to the obviously secret TOK'Ra base.Hence, his amused observation about the rambling she was capable of. He chuckled at her abashed expression as he joined her at the star chart she was showing him. The situation of the galaxy looked rather dreadful if those were the overlapping territories of these parasitic slavers. All but Earth and some of the other, older worlds hovering at the edges of the galaxy were free from their violent tyranny. It steeled Vikram's resolve to somehow end this threat to freedom and life. Permanently, if he had to. Rules and regulations of a long dead civilization be damned. Still, even with people as good of heart as Freya around, he would need to be very careful in what he would reveal and how he would help. One tenet of his people rang true, still. To not simply gift less developed races with technology they weren't to ready for. He knew knowledge and ingenuity wasn't the problem. They needed to be ready responsibility wise. The Alliance of Four had seemingly fallen, else the galaxy would not have been in this state. But only a race worthy of being called the fifth could truly inherit the vast wisdom and power of the Algerians. Was there even such a race already? In response to her question, he merely said, "did you know my people could travel between galaxies in a matter of hours by ship?" It was a succinct comment to highlight just how fast he could make this ship if he had the tools. Unfortunately, there were little tools and even less resources to improve the ship to such a level. Instead, he would have to jury-rig the hyperdrive further to cut the journey down to less than a week. That was an obtainable goal." Less than a week from now, we can be there, if I can get my hands on a three layered crystal. At least two weeks if we can't find one." He told her. "But first, I'm anxious to get a bit of succulent food in me." He added, winking at her. "Come, let's go take a breath of fresh air." He suggested. He offered his hand to the lithe beauty and pulled her to her feet. Together, they used the rings to port down to the ground. Their feet hit the lush grass of a forest rich region of the planet. Momentarily, Vikram closed his eyes and just listened and sensed. Nature! Life! It was intoxicating! He gloriously revealed in the ambient energy of life, drinking it in, almost causing him to glow in bliss, before his glowing green gaze opened and playfully glanced at Freya." Come on, oh the fairest lady, and join me in a leisurely walk as we search for the sweetness of fruits this world might offer us. I'm longing for the freshness and sweet and sour taste of an apple like fruit." He stated. Little did either of them know that this was only a prelude to their first adventure as the mad travelling scientist duo that would soon make the galaxy a very unsafe place... For all Goa'old, at least... And, maybe for sanity in general, too.

Ancient History_ A Stargate SG-1 RP (Nataleigh & Arkaniel)|rating:4.0

L5R A Time of Troubles_ The Gathering IC

Akita: Your fetched by staff from the restaurant, and you are told a woman is waiting for you and she needs to speak to you. You are told it is a geisha. The women sitting at the table waiting for you has long flowing black hair a deep purple kimono, and you can see in front of her a letter is laying on the table she has stunning blue eyes and a modest bosom. Hotaru: You hear rumors around your normal haunts that a gorgeous Geisha has been looking for you, and it is said an important message is awaiting you. When you find her her hair is intricately done up with ornate chopsticks holding her hair up in place and wears a royal blue kimono. Her hair is an almond brown, and she has a small but pleasant signed bosom. Yoru: At the local bar you notice a large crowd has gathered, and a young woman seems to singing and entertaining. Her warm milk chocolate hair hangs free about her shoulders and she has piercing green eyes. And impressive bosom held in barely by her jade green kimono. Once she finishes her song enrapturing all the men in the bar. "Would anyone here know a man named You and when he might stop by this fine establishment or have I come to the wrong place." Tsuko: You hear rumors that someone has been listing the local bath houses chatting people up, and she seems to be a Geisha from what you heard. They describe her with long black hair and brown eyes wearing a yellow Kimono. Many of the men say she is ravishing and a bit of an intimidating beauty. (“Thanks Bachchan,” Akita replied to the older woman who wasn't—strictly speaking—his aunt. He suspected she was never sure whether to accept the diminutive as affectionate or insist on proper respect, but on some level she saw him—a man with Robin blood and warrior's training—as above her in the social hierarchy. Sometimes it occurred to him that he'd picked up a lot of habits from the people in his life having that issue, but he didn't particularly want to change. A fine knife slashes deftly through the greens as he spoke. “Was she distressed? Most girls like that have a protector....” The lessen warrior slipped aside the chopped greens and called one of the employees over. He gave some quick instructions while cleaning the knife and replacing it in the block. He continued while doffing his apron and cleaning his hands. Then—with metal fan and dagger tucked through the obi of his sturdy Hakim and kimono, Akita slipped out of the kitchen and to the small private dining room he'd been directed too. Upon noting the sapphire eyed beauty with the raven black highlights in what seemed to be her real hair, Kilo blushed softly as he sat on his knees across from her.“How may I help you, Geisha-san?” (empty bottle of sake rolled lazily along the floor. Glass shimmered and shined beneath the waning moments of sunlight. Liquor spilled too late in the night dripped down between the cracks of the flooring to feed whatever spirits of the earth lingered in the city. Streams of gold flowered over those drops, giving them each a moment to be the sun until they plummeted below into an unknown abyss. Perhaps there was a philosophical meaning there, a poem to be written at this moment. Still, Howard doubted there were many samurai that would appreciate the beauty of waking up after a night of drinking though many would understand. Lazy eyes darkened with soot and ash continued to watch the odd scene of sunlight and alcohol. Then her world exploded. A pounding of feet caused an earthquake in her thoughts and the high-pitched voice of an angry owner racked across her mind like an on. Curse words ensued, words she knew the meaning of but not their origin. Hands hoisted her upward and out into the sunlight. Blinding was the light and cold was the water her head was soon dunked into when she was released. Howard came up sputtering from the accursed pool of fluid and gave a useless swing at whoever had carried her out. Black hair clung to her proud features, a pair of burning eyes dispelled any comments one might make about beauty but instead replaced them with remarks of a handsome nature. Then came an uncharacteristic squeal from her lips when next her roll of scrolls was flung out as well.“You useless eta shit crawling whore son! If you damage even one piece of them I will cook your balls still attached and feed them to you!” The large man did indeed blanch at the nature of the threat. Howard was known for her temper, even in the rural landscapes and that she was known for her connection with the elements of fire did much to credit her threat. Still when she stumbled forward and into the mud, there was enough laughter to give the man confidence he was safe. Then she swung with a knife in hand that sent him scrambling back into the inn.“Second thought I’ll cut them off now!” Perhaps the spinning of the swipe had cost her more than she knew because the action also cost her dinner across the front deck. Dignity went with her food so that soon she was dunking her head back into the water. Howard slung her set of scrolls over her shoulder before stumbling away from the place she had called home last night. One hand moved upward to smooth her black hair, pressing the wet lengths aside so that she could see in her stumbling moments toward another sake house. This time there was potential employment or at least someone that wanted to speak with her. Wet and disgruntled, the woman settled down in front of the beauty before her. “So what do you want?” Akita:"She was not distressed, and I think her protector is outside." and Obey Chan left you to see the young women. The beautiful geisha rises as you enter the room and gave you a bow and proceeded to sit down. "Akita San do you have somewhere private we can go to have you read this letter and discuss the arrangements should you agree." and the stunning blues eyes seem to carry a smile as well as her face. "So if you could Kindly lead the way that would be appreciated." Hotaru:The almond haired beauty gasps but has a coy smile across her lips at the scene she just witnessed." Well you are surely a spit fire, and I'll take you have no place to meet privately, so please read that letter and do not discuss it just nod that you will meet at the north road out of this village the next morning. I also hope to find you in better spirits then this day." (Village accepted their latest protector's peculiarities because he was relatively harmless. His tendency to stare off into space when he wasn't practicing, patrolling, or doing what they paid him for was worlds better than the vices of past Robin 'protectors', stories told when they thought he wasn't listening or wasn't near enough to hear. You was content to let them speculate and reminisce, so long as they paid his fees on time. It discouraged them from forming more than a business attachment to him, which let him get up and go when news promised a worthy battle. Sometimes he liked drinks with dinner, and in Okey-dokey that meant the sake house. You had come in early, placed his order, and had promptly drifted into half-awareness as he ate, largely ignoring the rest of the bar. It was going to be another night much like any other, and he would be waiting some more... but then a voice raised over the crowd in song, and it ceased to be just another night. Yoru's gaze focused after the first few bars of music, realizing that someone of Talent was in the village, and turned in his seat towards its owner. For a time, he managed to lose himself in something other than the emptiness of life. So distracted was he buy her singing that he almost missed the woman's question. You rose to his feet in a slow, deliberate motion, sobering up. "I am You," he announced to the room, voice carrying clearly through the sake house as he approached, dutifully directing his eyes towards her own (and politely up and away from the ample bosom proffered by her immodest dress). "Who do I have the honor of addressing tonight?" (felt like he was melting in the Geisha's jeweled eyes. He glanced around the private dining room, noting that the only actual privacy was rice paper walls. “If this is not private enough, Geisha-San, I could take you downstairs to my room in the basement. I'll have my father make sure my sisters don't listen at the door. There are other options, but further away.” (sounded much like a job. Some samurai might need to be coaxed into doing something for money, have the action appeal to their sense of honor or duty. Howard had no such compulsion in her body for such things. While the blood of an ancient line did run through her veins, that blood had been tempered by the realities of life. Food required money, money required work, and therefore she would have to work for her survival. A simple nod was given in her moment of sobriety, though this was followed by a belch that reeked of aged alcohol. Perhaps there had been a time when the woman might have been a proper Eugenia or a proper anything really, but for now she was simply another vagabond born with a gift few could claim. A fist came down on the table to startle a passing server. “Food! Now! And sake and tea.” The voice was certainly a shout that made even Howard wince from the volume. Still, she had nodded and now turned her gaze down toward the envelope. “We’ll see what the spirits tonight look like for my spirit in the morning.” You: The Milk Chocolate haired women stood up and bowed "You San would you have somewhere private we can speak? I also hope you do forgive me as I am not to give me name just yet." the beautiful young women gave a genuine smile and waiting to be guided to somewhere private to discuss the business. Akito: "Akita San I believe the basement will be best, I hope I will not have to fetch my Jimbo and can trust you to act appropriately in private." The stunning blue eyes appraise your reactions and a coy smile come across her face. The women pushed the letter forward toward Akita. "Do not read that till we are down stays"her voice stern yet sensual at the same time. Hotaru: "While we wait for a server to arrive why don't you read the letter and provide me that nod to say if you will be present in the morning and I will join you for this meal. I Could also see to a much friendlier awakening then the one you received this day. How does that sound to you Howard San since you seem to be set on drinking this evening, Because I am sure you would prefer a more gentle awakening than a more abrupt and rude one." the young women is being genuine and hoping to lesson such an abrupt and bitter attitude. "I have a room at the Happy Duck, down the street a short ways. We can speak with more privacy there." He nods once to the mystery woman and waits for her to join him before leaving the sake house, collecting his Katina at the door and taking the short walk to the small traveler's inn he is currently being lodged in. Yoru lingers long enough in the front room to order tea for the both of them, then leads her upstairs. His room is sparsely decorated and furnished, featuring only a dais ho stand (which he places both swords on), a small table, and a leather-wrapped two-handed axe leaning against the far wall. The Robin arranges one of the spare cushions for her to sit on. "I apologize that I do not have more to offer a woman of your obvious talent," he says, the ghost of a smile on his face as he seats himself across from her. "Do you have cause to travel much?" The talented young women smiles. "Thank you for the consideration You San" slipping out of her sandals and sits down on the cushion and hands you a letter. "Please read that letter, and then we can discuss things further, and I will do my best to answer any questions that I can" still smiling warmly. The employee of the inn announces the tea arrived and left it at the door with two cups and the pot to serve it in. You takes the letter from her and opens it up to read the contents, only pausing in his perusal to pour them both some tea when it arrives. He does not touch his own cup, however, until he has finished reading. (had not been in the town long; that the handful of people she knows here are telling her there is someone looking for her is worrisome. And a geisha? No doubt some lord's pet, a notion that only brings more worry to her. Still, a samurai - even a disgraced one - meets all things head-on. So the mid-morning saw her at the bath house. "If someone comes looking tor me, please do send them my way," she says to the matron, as she pays the handful of zit for the house's service and a small sliver of soap, before stepping through the curtain into the women's area. Once behind the curtain, she unwound her obi, letting the slightly faded red kimono fall open around her, the pale green of her nagajuban exposed before it, too was removed and stored in a basket. She looked down at herself for a moment, noting as ever the small handful of scars her fair skin has accumulated since childhood, most small and faded; the marks of a samurai who has not yet seen true battle, the firm, peaked breasts of a young woman who has not known the attention of a child. And as ever, she smiled at what she saw, before covering her torso with a long cloth towel, and padding bare-footed into the humid bathrooms. Tsuko's eyes scanned over the other women in the baths; most were of course the matrons and wives of the village, and did more to remind her of her own grandmother, than titillate. Still, she kept her eyes open for the one who was said to be looking at her, even as she doused herself with the warm water, and soaped herself. A quick scrub left her skin flushed pink, and a few brushes of the slender blade she brought left her arms and calves smooth, before she rinsed the soap off into the proper channels. Clean, and starting to relax already, Sumo folded her cloth behind her and stepped into the warm bath, letting a soft sigh escape as her body was enveloped, feet rubbing against the smooth cobbles at the bottom. For just a moment, she dropped her alertness, dark gray eyes closing as she just enjoyed the heat. After a moment, she opened her eyes again, simply to enjoy the environment even as she waited. The aforementioned intimidating beauty entered the bath house as the curtain behind her closed after being shown which one was Sumo. The geisha removed her Yellow Kimono and the brown just fluttered down to the middle of the back, and she bent down to remove her taxi and hung her attire carefully and made way to Sumo. "Sumo San may I get your back for you and then retreat somewhere privately to discuss important matters. The piercing brown eyes looked to the women and held out her hand for the soap. Sumo's eyes lit on the other woman, and for a moment was grateful that the scrubbing and warm water could explain the flush of color she felt to her cheeks. She was even distracted enough to not notice - or at least, not take offense - at the geisha's familiar address to her. At the woman's offer of washing her back, well, even the water temperature couldn't explain the flush. Sumo's eyes wandered the other woman. Without even really thinking about it, she was climbing out of the soak, beads of water rolling down her stomach and legs, as she stepped out, so that her back could be washed. The change from warm water to cooler air pushed some of the flush away, at the cost of her nipples tightening and rising. Realizing this, she turned abruptly, pulling her hair to the side, looking over her shoulder." I... I do not imagine why there would be much need for privacy, but, HAI, this can be done." her gray eyes continued their exploration from over the shoulder, before she caught herself staring and glanced away, back to the rippling water she had just exited. The geisha smiles and gave and approving smirk and washed your back. "My employer desires to gather many as quietly and quickly as possible that is all I can say for now." The geisha rinsed your back off of soap. "So Shall we depart then to a more private location." (smiled, knowing the Geisha was flirting with him. "Fear not. You're entirely safe in my company." He accepted the letter and tucked it into his kimono, then held the door for the beauty before leading her down to a modest room in the basement. It was cool and peaceful. A few candles lit the otherwise dark room. A dais ho on a stand stood in one corner, and a little alter not far away. He laid them each down a tatami mat before kneeling across from her and bringing out the letter. Before he read, he inquired, "What do I call you?" Once he had a name for her, he smiled and read the letter, bringing a candle close. Howard: The Geisha just smiled and patiently waited for the food to arrive and the letter to be looked at and received her nod she requested. She quietly sat as the tea was brought before the food, and she skillfully poured the tea for Howard and then for herself. The women quietly sat hoping her composed nature would provide this Eugenia some serenity as they chat. Akito: The Geisha removed her footwear and placed them just outside the door, She smiled and settled down on to the mat." I am afraid my name must stay hidden for now, and I am grateful to be in your care. Once your read the letter I will explain what details and tell you what I can if you accept. Yoru: The Geisha before you quietly sips her tea waiting on your response. She seems very serene while she brings the tea to her soft lips. The letter: Each letter is addressed to each of you by name. To each of you I hope this letter finds you well. I will get right to the point we are gathering an army of Robin to combat a threat of Gain as the Major and Minor Clans are locked in combat with the Shadow lands and the banished Spider Clan. We are gathering those with courage and skill of sword and spell to join this army and the Emperor will be willing to extend rewards to those who fight and protect there home Dougan from an outside conquer. We hope you will join our cause and safeguard Dougan for future generations. As you serve you will be given a place to reside and a salary for your service and food will be provided for those who join this army. Well wishes of good health and future successes, Miya, Anemia Akihito You reads the letter once from top to bottom over the course of a few moments, glances to the geisha across the table as if not entirely sure if he believes what he's reading, and reads it once again, incredulously mouthing the word 'gain?' as he did. He had half-suspected a half-dozen possibilities when she had asked for a private audience, but this was definitely not among them. After a moment, he let himself laugh -- a single, amused note -- and folded the letter together. "Gain," he murmurs to himself. Then, to the young woman, he goes on, more authoritative: "No honorable samurai could countenance letting whatever insult they have planned come to pass. I will serve as the Miasma requests. When do we leave, and where are these forces gathering?" (eyes grew excited as he read the letter. The young man had nothing to complain about when ti came to his life—he was a hero to many, with his share of grateful maidens too warm his life. But this was a chance to expand his adventures to a level beyond his wildest dreams. Where would they need him to go? Who would he fight? What would he see? Who would he love? His eyes glanced at the dais ho stand behind the geisha. Then he straightened up, smiling a little more than was manly, but not to the point that he actually looked weak or childish. “Honored guest, my thanks to your lady for the opportunity. How may I be of service?” Akita: The Geisha smiles warmly and finishes her tea rises and bows." I will meet you just outside the restaurant in the morning, and we will depart for the meeting place it should be about a two-day journey." The geisha slips back into her footwear and heads back up to the restaurant and prepare to leave. (nodded gravely and finished his own tea. When his guest rose to leave, he rose with her. Before she could exit, he caught her by the shoulder and turned her gently but firmly into his arms. He tilted her chin up softly and brushed his lips ever so gently over her own. "You don't have to leave, little one," he whispered. As he said it, he released her shoulder, making it clear he wouldn't stop her if she did. The Geisha slipped away despite the tantalizing kiss the unexpectedness of it rattled her a bit visibly, and she left with as much haste as her legs could carry her. As she left with her thoughts swimming at his forwardness and covering her blush. With the sleeve of the kimono and regained her composure by the time she reached the top of the stairs and exits the restaurant. (“Data,” Akita whispered softly. Disappointed as he was that his mysterious guest had not chosen to stay the night, he'd caught her blush, and the particular quality of energy with which she fled. The beautiful girl was clearly no more immune to his charms than he was to her grace and beauty. Akito composed himself with a few deep breaths. Then he knelt before the dais ho stand. For several moments he meditated upon what was to come. He whispered prayers to the fortunes, the Kai, and his ancestors. He mediated upon the teachings of Lessen—strength to protect the innocent. Masterless wave-men who found their duty in their ideals, not their lords. With a final bow, he whispered a soft prayer—not to his direct ancestors—but to the founders of his school and the heroes of the Lessen who had died with honor since.“I will not disappoint you.” Akito rose and tucked the blades of a samurai—the blades of his grandfather—through his sash. Then he strode out of the room in search of his sensei. (night, after consulting with his uncle and grandfather, Akita strode back upstairs to the now shutting down kitchen. He took a good pot and packed it with a bag of rice, a packet of smoked fish and pickled vegetables, a case of spices. He packed a few wooden bowls and pairs of chopsticks into a little case with his sake cup, adding a bottle of water and a bottle of sake. Heading back to his room. He wrapped his dais ho into a clean pair of blankets and a long tatami mat. He set out a clean kimono, Hakim, and obi, with a pair of socks and a loincloth—campaign two extras of the last into his travel pack with the other things so far. Furthermore, he stashed some Zen and by into a coin purse, while hiding his precious golden KOK in the bottom of his travel pack. A straw cloak and hat—the second of which could pass for a basket—were set out of the joined as well. Lastely, his favorite paper lantern on a walking staff—the light he used when on patrol. Nodidng in satisfaction, Akita closed up the traveling pack and lay down. He spent some time mediating on life, death, and duty, before slipping into a deep sleep to awaken at first light. Then he cleaned himself thoroughly, dressed, gathered his things, and strode up to meet the geisha. Beneath the cloak, his fan and well balanced dagger were tucked through his obi, along with his purse and a little pouch with a tinderbox and roll of leather twine. (set her eyes to the letter. Hands eagerly moved to start feasting on the greasy bits of food set before her, letting the heaviness settle in her still churning stomach. A slurping sound echoed from her lips when she drank down the tea and then added a bit of sake to the mix. If she had any concerns about appearing attractive or social, she did not show them while she ate. Then there was a small lifting of her body as if a silent burp rumbled inside her chest. While the outward appearance was of one that did not have concern, Howard did consider the contents of the letter. If the letter was true, which her sources gave indication that this woman was honest then this was a call to defend her homeland. Despite being a Robin, the bloodline of the samurai still called to her a sense of duty. Much of her life had been spent fulfilling that duty in the form of helping the peasants of the land and punishing violators of the Emperor’s Law. This seemed a true call to battle and glory.“This is true, then you have my support. As for your friendly awakening, just tell me where and when to go after I’m done tonight.” Akita: The morning came, and the geisha is waiting for you and another Robin who seems very confident in himself as he is openly carrying his dais ho in the city. The Jimbo has short brown hair and green eyes. The Geisha from last night seems well composed and bows and greets you with a bow"Good Morning Akita sans hall we get our journey under way." with a pleasant smile on her face. Hotaru: The Geisha smiles and leans close and speaking low but not whispering" Well then I will meet you outside the establishment you will being staying at for the evening and the next morning we will depart to meet up with those who have been selected to join this effort to defend our home." The geisha continues to eat her meal and staying in your company refilling your tea when needed and once her meal is finished she rises and bows." I will see you in the morning then Howard San" Akita answered the beautiful girl's smile with one of his own, not so deep, but respectful. “I'm ready, Geisha-Chan, though I'd still like something to call you.” His eyes danced in excitement. They took a quick wander down the girl's body, but moved quickly back to her face. He also gave the Robin an assessing glance and a nod. You: Excellent You San then "I will meet you in the morning outside the place you are staying for the evening, and we will begin our journey to the meeting place." The Geisha finishes her tea the bows and makes her way out of the establishment. (bowed from the waist in response and rose to open the door for her. He lets himself watch the woman go -- she had dressed to impress, and with the business of the job offer concluded, it felt like a shame to allow it to go without fully observing the... care, she had put into it. At length, when the sound of her footsteps had passed outside the small inn, You let a breath go and turned his attention to gathering the few belongings he had in preparation for departure. He had enough coin on hand to ensure he wouldn't be starving on the way -- there was no telling what his guide would be willing to share -- while he knew how to settle accounts and do the basic math to terminate things with this village, it was always something of a bother to have to do so... Still, bright and early the next morning, You packed and prepared his belongings for travel: dais ho polished and says shining, a large axe hanging off of his shoulder, armored up -- easier to wear than to carry -- and his traveling pack ready to go as he went to meet the young geisha woman outside the inn. It was time for the wave man to roll on. Howard: The Geisha finishes her meal and gets up and takes a bow and turns to depart. "Have a good rest Howard San and I will see you in the morning." The geisha begins to make her way to the door. Akito: "You may call me Ai Akita run let's get underway we have to travel to the lands of Tortoise Clan" The Jimbo quietly turns to face the road waiting to depart. Ai steps next to him waiting on you to start walking. Yoru: Is greeted by the Geisha from the night before and a fellow Robin with a dais ho at his hip and a large two-handed hammer this man has long black hair and is well over 6 feet tall looking like he might be or have been at one point a crab clan member. The geisha pipes up "well I hope you are ready to travel to the tortoise clans lands." (gave a small but very warm smile. "Hajimemashite, Kitchen," he replied, then took a step ahead of her and, staff in hand, started off in the indicated direction at a jaunty pace. "I've met many people from many lands, but never someone from the turtle clan." Some time later, when they were a good distance down the road from the capitol, he paused and let the vigilance with which he'd traveled so far relax. He smiled to himself. One more step, and this will be further from home than I've ever been before. He would take this opportunity to remove his dais ho and tuck it into his obi, just bellow his fan.“I think this will be a very great adventure.” Akito took the next step. ("I am. Let us make haste as we are able -- it is a long way to go." You bows once to the young woman, then again, more deeply, to the larger Robin next to her. "I am You," he says, more cordially. "I have not had the honor of your name -- are you also a recruit for this campaign?" Akita: Ai smiles and continues to walk with her ever vigilant Jimbo as you all leave the town the road becomes lined by shrubs and small groupings of trees. Ai speaks up" I only got to spend a short amount of time before receiving my orders to come fetch you. I hope I have some time to look around the Tortoise Clan lands as I never really got to really see much of it before I have to go back to my stable." The wind is a nice spring breeze that blows through the area. The town now miles behind you.(Make a perception test)You: The young women bows and turns to the road as the women speaks "Yes of course let's get this journey over with." The large Jimbo returns the deep bow with one of his own and as he comes back to standing his full height he speaks with a loud bellow" My name is Died I will join up after I see the woman back to her stable safely." The giant of the man turns to the road heading out of the town and keeps a keen eye on his surroundings as they make a steady pace the landscape around the road out of town only has short grass on either side and not many places to allow for hiding. After a time of travel and idle chatter a group of three people traveling together seemingly draped in full length ratty cloaks and wide brim straw hats covering their faces. (Make a perception check) Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Investigation 17 You nods once and falls into formation as the three of them leave the village behind. In a year, he reflects, the only thing he will remember of it was the quiet, their pickled ginger, and the fact that a beautiful woman drew him from this place to sojourn to the Tortoise territories -- and it's as he is recounting the story of how he had chased a thief from a neighboring village for half a day before eventually dragging him back for justice as the folks in disguise appear on the road, when his attention is not -entirely- focused...(At 2014-11-23 03:16:38, Jack (UID: 18980) rolls: 3d10k2o10 Result: 12 (Akita: Akita you noticed three men behind a small grove of trees and at the same time the Jimbo notices as well moving in to block any direct path two his charge. The three men step out from behind the trees Katina's drawn the ratty cloaks slipping down a bit revealing well-kept kimono's that are all black and have a white embroidered spider near the left side of the kimono on the chest. These men faces and hair is obscured by the wide brim straws. One of the men sneers. " You will not make it to resist us."(Roll initiative)You: The Jimbo moves in front of his charge to cut off a direct line to his charge from the three men. The cloaks move to reveal finely kept black kimono's with white embroidered spiders on the left side of their chests to Died, You and the geisha. Two of the men have drawn there blades the third is in a low crouch with hand on hilt of the Katina as it rests in its scabbard. The faces and hair are hidden by the wide brim straw hats. The man in the crouch speaks up "You will not make it to prepare a counter-attack against us." (Roll Initiative) ((Initiative: 19 (eyes widened incrementally with some surprise as the three Bush fanned out, drawing blades. Then, for the first time in a long while, a smirk crossed his expression. "The first to kill two buys drinks at our next major stop?" he suggests to Died without taking his eyes off of their foes, going for his Katina... (hiskatanasheathed at his waist, the youngroninflicked open his iron fan and used it to hide a yawn." I'm sorry, strangers. Am I supposed to believe thatyouare warriors of the feared and despised Spider Clan? With sloppy stances like that? I've met pretenders of your caliber a dozen times before." He flipped back his kimono and assumed a stance somewhere between a martial ready stance and a somewhat masculine fan dancers pose. "I doubt you three are even worth pulling out my sword." He glanced at the otherronin--Ai-Chan's bodyguard. "I doubt they'll make me break a sweat if I share them, yojimbo-san, but I won't be so greedy as to ask to have them all to myself." Looking back at the ambushers, Akita fell into an easy fighting stance, fan ready, and beckoned with his free hand. From the Lessen school, defenders of all goodly folk, I—Akita—answer your challenge today. Ikuzo!” Initiaitve27. Attack Stance Akita:Initiative orderAkito: 27, Daihatsu Duelist: 22, Ai's Jimbo: 20, Daihatsu Bush x2: 19The Enemy duelist scoffs and spits at the comment by the proud and confident Akita. The Duelist lowers into a stance and has not drawn his Katina yet but has placed his hand on his hilt looking ready to attack. The other two drew there blades and prepared to attack all three of their faces covered by the wide brim hats they wear and the moment the fight will begin will be decided in an instant. Ai steps behind the two men with her slipping into a defensive stance. Ai's Jimbo draws Katina and prepares to attack his gaze focuses on nothing more than the enemy before not even responding to the man at his side.(Muse go ahead and start things off.) Yoru:Initiative order Daihatsu Duelist: 22, Daihatsu Bush x2: 19,You: 19 Died: 18The Duelist already in position with his hand on hilt and ready to draw at a moments notice and charges forward at you to go and make his strike at him. The swift draw strike made at You connects in a flash and after the gash is made from the quick strike and winds up past the Robin he just attacked with in arms reach. The other two spider Bush are ready two launch there attacks but You is just a bit faster and can now make his attack. (You Takes 16 -3 = 13 damage) (grinned slyly at the duelist as the other two Bush drew their blades. Before they could start forwards, his hand flashed too his tango and hurled it through the air at the rightmost Bush. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide1 raise for extra damage (because Akita is overconfident.) ACK! 5K3 = (7, 5, 2, 1, 1) for 14. You's lips pull down, briefly, in something between disapproval and irritation -- but with his sword already clear from its says, he gives himself to the cold, killing fury of the Mats, locking his murderous attention on one of the slower Bush and cutting towards him with intent to bisect him entirely in a single stroke. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Spending a Void point to reduce wounds taken by 10; You stands at 3 wounds, still in the -0 wound rank. Kenjutsu (Katina) + Agility against one of the Bush: 3, 2, 11, 20, 8, 9 (total to hit 40, which I will go out on a limb and say will hit;damage dice 4, 8, 4, 8, 10, 5, 5, 2, (exploding for 19+8 on the dice, +6 for Mats technique,- total damage 35. Akita: The Tango whirled harmlessly past by the furthest right Spider Bush. The duelist charges forward at the Jimbo guarding Ai and proceeds to draw his blade to make his strike. The swift swing of the duelists blade strikes true. The Jimbo swings and misses just missing the ratty cloak worn by the duelist who just struck him and wound up just past him. The other two Bush each line up to attack each of you and close in and take their attacks. One of the two Bush misses the Jimbo with a wild swing of the blade and the other Spider Bush landed his attack on Akita and catches him cleanly in the chest(Akita takes 24 damage. Also top of the initiative.) Yoru: One of the spider clan that was swung upon can barely continue the fight and is bleeding profusely. The last spider Bush to make his attack completely misses. The large Robin Jimbo complete misses his target. Once again it comes up to the duelist that prepares to make his next attack. The duelist again lands his attack upon You. (You Take 23 damage, and it is your initiative.) (hissed as the duelist's blade a bit into his shoulder, thankful for long-rested battle instincts that had him twist at the last moment and kept it from cutting any deeper. The duelist had cut him twice; this could only be repaid in bloodshed. With a roar, he whirled about to face the duelist and set out to make exactly that happen. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide Second Void Point spent plus Light Armor's Reduction brings the damage down to 10.Currently, at 13 wounds and a +0 Wound Penalty. Attacking the duelist with the Katina! Rolling 6k3+emphasis again, and dice Kai continue to be kind -- 26, 14, 11, 9, 4, 3. - Total of 51 to hit. Again, presuming that's sufficient to hit, and rolling damage 8k2+6... and dice Kai continue to smile: 22, 9, 6, 3, 6, 5, 4, 2. - Total of 37 damage. You: The spider duelist falls to one knee excessively bleeding and the last remaining standing Spider clan member turns to run away. (You take your parting attack as the Spider clan Bush flees.) The sound of retreating footsteps drew his attention like a magnet, and You's expression twisted into a sneer. How dare they think themselves worthy of carrying Katina when they chose to flee an honorable death?"COWARD!" he thundered, and cut towards the fleeing Spider Bush.attacking Going Full Attack against this one, two damage raises. No survivors!8k4+Emphasis: 18, 8, 5, 3, 2, 2, 4, 4,- total to hit is 31. If that is sufficient to hit...10k2+6: 14, 8, 5, 4, 6, 7, 1, 3, 1, 5, - total damage is 28. A sword sparked off of his iron fan, then again... Akito gave a startled hiss as the other Bush's blade slipped expertly through his guard and raked along his back. The young warrior rolled with the blow right into that Bush's arms and brought his knee up at the other man's ribs with all his might! Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide1 Void to reduce damage by 10. 34 to hit. 29 damage! You: The fleeing Bush between you and the Imposing Jimbo bring the final Jimbo with his wounds not being dead but excessively injured and if left in the condition they will not last long. (Combat has ended.) Akito: The Young Lessen final landing an impressive blow to the ribs of the Bush and some blood trickles out of his mouth after he coughed up some blood. The duelist quickly spun on his heal and swiftly lashed at the Jimbo next. The wounds the Jimbo has taken started to effect his performance and has missed the duelist who just attacked him. One of the spider Bush misses Akita but the second spider Bush lands a solid blow against the Jimbo he is still standing but looking worse for wear. (Akita the initiative is back to you.) With only one opponent, and he injured, Akita knew he had to get to the Jimbo's aid, and quickly. Focusing with all his will, the young samurai caught the injured man's Katina with his fan and pushed it down to the ground. Then he spun clear around and kicked mightily at the spider clansman's head. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide2 Raise for damage. 1 void point. 6k4 = 22Damage? (probably not!) =16 Akita: As Akita tries and pushes the Bush's sword to the ground he manages to swiftly move his sword out of the way causing the young lessen to be thrown off balance and miss with his attack. The duelist turns again to face Akita's back and with another swift draw of the blade connects a hit to the back of the young Robin. The Jimbo focus into a full defensive stance trying to increase his survival. The Bush who you failed to attack slashes at you with a confident smirk on his face as his attack cuts at your chest. The last spider Bush goes to take his attack and misses judges the distance to the defense focused Jimbo and his blade falls short of striking the target and hits the dirt of the road before him.(Akita takes 25 damage and Akita take nine damage from the Bush.) Akita couldn't hold back a scream at the horrific hit from the first blade. The second, he felt the Katina go into his chest. The young Robin fell to his knees. So cold... Still clutching his lessen, Akita hit the ground in puddle of blood. (snapped the sword in his hands to the side, flicking much of the blood off, and remains in that stance for a long moment, letting the killing coldness go as long-ago dojo days taught him to do, easing back into the world. When his blood is no longer surging in his ears, he starts to reach for the ratty silk cloth he keeps wiping the weapon completely clean -- but pauses a moment, and uses his foot to urgently rolls the once-fleeing Spider onto his back." I will make this simple," You says matter-of-factly, his expression hardening into a severe line as he leans over the fallen Bush. "Tell me who sent you, and I will give you the kind of quick death that filth like you does not deserve. Refuse me, and I will leave you to bleed." You: The spider clan looks up at you and opens his mouth to speak." the sides shadow has eyes on you, and we are watching you, and we will stop you." then gives you a defiant glare. Akito:(intimidating women steps forwards and six heavily armored Bush accompany her, and they all bare the spider clan crest. Also, several mining arrive and begin stabilizing Akita. While the Jimbo is brought before the leader without any of them saying a word and is beheaded by another of the heavily armored spider clan warriors. Three of the men strip Ai of her weapon and then her clothing a beginning to restrain her in unforgiving Shari rope work. With a harness restraining her upper body and her legs are frog tied which her upper thigh restrained to lower leg. The pickup her stripped belongings and place it in a chest in a cart brought up, and then they pick her restrained screaming form into the cart where they gag her with a cleave gag. After Akita's wounds are treated and stabilized the six spider clan men strip you and effortless take your weapons from you and restrain and gag you just like Ai was. Places you right next to her and the throw a large itchy blanket over the two nude and helpless prisoners. The carriage bulled by horses begins to pull away as you and your belongings are carried away. Ai is struggling, and her eyes are filled of concern and looking at you with pleading eyes, and you can barely make out from gag talk "d o n right struggle y ref our h ref hurt." (morning hours came again. A child of fire and light, Howard had a love and hate relationship with the light that now shined through her eyelids. On one hand the warmth of the sun and the nourishment of a new day were welcomed. On the other hand was the nausea she felt at the harsh blinding of the light when those eyelids lifted along with the warming smell of the results such nausea had brought her last night. One hand clawed at the table beside her, knocking over an empty sake bottle while struggling to find one only half empty so that she might have something to relieve the pounding in her head. Last night she only remembers fragments of celebration as she rejoiced at having some form of Imperial duty. There were men involved, maybe a few women and a great deal of alcohol. Then she remembered the muscular figure and knew well the Crab drink had done her in along with the Crab merchant. Bastard had promised her the strongest drink she had tasted and delivered. Judging from her bedroom, she had made some promises as well. A hand to her kimono had her soon dressed and stumbling outside once again. Another day and another adventure for her to experience. One hand lifted to stifle a yawn before rising upward to adjust her hair, tugging the bun as if to straighten its position. Eyes crusted with sleep tried to adjust to her surroundings, orient herself to where she had awoken before running a steadying hand over her scroll satchel. Maybe today would be better or at least end better than last night. The Geisha from the evening before is waiting out front of were the Eugenia slept for the evening this time there is a man obviously a Robin Jimbo but has the white hair of a crane. The pair quietly wait to see the Eugenia descend from upstairs.

L5R A Time of Troubles_ The Gathering IC|rating:3.0

[Spelljammer Adventures] Out of Character chat place

As all places need one :) Huzzah! I'm sorely tempted to be a emic. I honestly don't know much about charts except it sounds like a noise Wolverine would make. Furthermore, I will get my book of humanoids soon, it has We mics in it for racial adjustments, I will trust that if you have the book to use the adjustments provided. The only place online I can find them is on never winter and I don't know if it is TSR friendly. I don't think the Complete Book of Humanoids had stats for trolls, unfortunately (though it did have ogres, ogre mages, and several giant kin). Lancis, do we get to distribute the six stat rolls as we like, or do we have to take them in order? Also, how will we be dealing with creatures who require extra XP (like ogre mages, who need double) to gain levels, or multiclass characters (who of course also need a lot more XP)?(And shouldn't we be in ACES, not CCEF?) Question on character creation. I see references to no limits of race/class restrictions and mention of tobacco. Is the game mechanics the old AD&D 2nd ed. System or the newer 3.0 or 3.5 systems. NICE AVATAR! Ummmm I think it's all 2nd edition these systems are NOT capable. As for me looks like I'm going to be running a, er, Scout...as she slips our a little blade and cuts off a money pouch putting it into her cloak. Just to cover expenses you understand like a pretty whore and some drink.’D Defeat, all creatures played as player characters will use the THAC0 and Hit dice of the class they are, not based on race. We are purely 2nd edition in terms of THAC0, and there are no limits to what race can play what (as in dwarves paladins are ok, anything that might limit race or level doesn't exist.) Trolls lose their regenerative abilities to become PCs and you are right they are not in the complete book, no more than Charts are, I am going to edit the numbers a bit to make these races work. Since this is a "House rules" system game, I am not worried where we are I may ask a siren to move us later. For now, we are fine here. I hope I covered everything :) Also I added my view of racial adjustments for Trolls and Charts... I can't seem to find my book of Humanoids so if someone has one and wants some extra exp, send me a racial adjustment table. :) Curses, all my books are at home, and I'm not until next weekend. Quote from: lances on 15-10-2006, 06:02:08Jefepato, all creatures played as player characters will use the THAC0 and Hit dice of the class they are, not based on race. I know that; it's essentially impossible to have both racial Hit Dice and class levels in 2nd edition. But as per the Complete Book of Humanoids, certain races (like ogre mages and the two types of giant-kin) require double the usual amount of XP to gain levels, hence my question. I'll get you the stat adjustment list from the Humanoids book, but if you wanted a full list of racial powers and traits it would take a long time to type up. Nope, now increased XP requirements either :)You advance as any other race does. And your character when made gets +300 XP for the chart, thanks! So, it's the races listed in the char creation thread? Normal races and from the book of humanoids. Quote from: lances on 15-10-2006, 07:32:49Nope, no increased XP requirements either :)Wow. What about multi-classed characters? How does their starting level work? And are psionic allowed? (Psionic are awfully messy in 2nd edition, but I had to ask...) Quote from: Defeat on 15-10-2006, 08:44:35And are psionic allowed? (Psionic are awfully messy in 2nd edition, but I had to ask...) I asked already. He said I could, but he'd splat me if I used the really broken and abusive stuff./me has dibs on psionic!:) character creation rules do allow multiclass (with my approval) and can be no more then 2 classes. And 1 psionic is more than enough. I will allow the class but not the latent powers. Psionics were messy and powerful, but on a ship that flies by mental focus you can't beat a good psionic. Multi class rules take the lowest exp and use its if for example you fighter needs 40k for exp level 4, but your wizard needs 45k exp you will be 4/3and then exp awards will be sliced in half as well also PSO a fighter/wizard would have D7 hit points. (plus con bonus)and always remember MAX PSO a level 4/3 fighter/wizard with no con bonus would have 40+12/2 HP for 26 HEIF you wish for a race beyond what is listed send me a PM with a description of the race and its racial modifiers. I will approve or disapprove them. WWIII! Spelljammer! :pounce!::May I play? Please? Pretty please with gumdrops, chocolate Sundays, and cherries on top? Lances:Do races' minimum and maximum attributes have to be respected? Nothing from the Humanoids book keeps its "magical" racial abilities (certain races are pretty inept without them, like pixies and ogre mages)? And can we use races from, say, the Plan escape books? (If so, would plane touched still lose their innate magical tricks?) Good point a pixie without its magic is pretty pathetic after all it's a LITTLE fairy. I have an important question I know each player starts with Language, Modern off free for common and their native language. According to the RULES you must have a proficiency to Read/Write a language even if a priest or wizard or bard and the rest have to spend 2 Slots to learn to read/write. Now do you also grant reading/writing free in languages known or do we have to buy them? It doesn't matter to me but having the non-scholarly classes illiterate could be a problem. I'm likely going to be playing a human so for me, I just take Common and would pay the two slots to be able to Read/Write but for others it could be a concern. I am so tempted to join, even though I barely keep up with games on here... How does the priest system work in a Spelljammer game anyway? I mean, if there's planet hopping, can a priest still access her spells? I'm thinking of making a priestess to a goddess of love/beauty/sex. Furthermore, I know it's a bit overdone, but that's because it's fun! And I like the Swan may race, would the whole turning into a swan with the token thing still apply, or is that nixed as a spell ability? That's up to the GM, but there are two options a general cleric where all the clerics have access to only blunt weapons, us most of the spells listed and can turn (or command) undead. OR priests with specific powers and spells allowed based on the daily served. The priests' handbook offers many from highly combat skilled ones that can use swords and heavy armor and access to only four areas of clerical magic to varying levels and few powers. To mystical ones that fight poorly but have lots of magical power through access to spells and granted powers. The two are never used together in my experience. I am curious which is being used myself? I'll try and discuss it with Lances, there may be special house rules on the matter. Personally I prefer the idea of my character being almost entirely pacifist, "Make love, not war!" and carrying no weapons, but strong with magic and relying on others for protection for the most part. Dunno if there's a mythos that fits that, it's just my own little idea. Yes the priest "classes" of Healing, Peace and Love are all fine choices. Are different sorts of priest from the Priests handbook. All are magically pretty powerful but crappy fighters. But you would likely want to have a moral code allowing for self-defense from non-sentient creatures like animals and creatures that are naturally unnatural (Undead and Demons for example). After all if a wraith or demon shows up I'm sure your daily if good would not mind you smiting it with his or her powers and spells. Or taking a club or whatever to it. I can help give me an idea like a priestess of a Love daily I'm happy to help, most gods might have several paths like Zeus might offer clergy of Lightning, Community, War, Kingship and the like. So you could take Venus or Aphrodite and take this as a path if the GM is good with the idea. Fankly for this a cleric is not a good choice over a priest specialty sort of holy person in my opinion. Another thing I have to ask why no level limits for races seems to put the only HUMAN advantage and tosses it out? Might I suggest humans get something extra maybe to balance it out some. I might suggest one extra non-weapon proficiency slot each time they get them for the class they have. And that useable to take anyone at cost even if out of their class. Being that I like to make my characters for RP rather than actually being good in a fight, I'm not too worried about making a weak character, but yeah, see won't be totally pacifist, just will prefer to let others protect her, or run away, or offer payment. Anyway, I read a story about a character who was a priestess to a love/sex goddess and the idea intrigued me, so I want to try it. The character wouldn't be all about sex, but she would be able to make money via the trade, unless the GM rules it out as a safe idea based on disease. In the story the goddess extended her protection to her priestesses, but I recognize that may not apply here. Anyway, the whole idea is that she provides healing through various means, physical, mental, and stress relief, and the like. Sex is part of her purpose, as is counseling and showing love to all people who will accept it. It could be fun to have an idea what race if a humanlike enough one maybe we could be lovers. By the way a priest or priestess of love MUST be wed by Level 8 it's a requirement put in place by the daily. But my character is going to be a human woman with a CIA of 17 so will be cute and pleasant if you don't mind nice thieves. Likely she will be CG more a scout than a thief using her skills for good. They could share the same daily. It doesn't say the spouse to be the opposite gender but according to the Priests Handbook it's a restriction. If you don't wed by then the daily will exact punishment like losing spells and other things for not giving your daily her due worship. So might as well marry before the game starts. ;) [Anyone with the book can check that out for you.] And to the GM might I suggest keep this simple have a God or Goddess for each Priest Class like a God of Druids for Druids, a God of War empowering War Priests and the like with no names. With such a huge potential pantheon it would be so much simpler. That's not a problem for me, unexpected, but I don't mind. As long as it doesn't restrict her other duties and such, again, I'm kind of basing it loosely on the character I read, and that means no monogamy. I kind of like the idea of playing a character that many will disdain, even though she is doing what she knows is right. Who says monogamy she can be wed that doesn't mean exactly faithful. Look at Aphrodite she was married and had many affairs with gods and mortals. And if married to my character lets just say you can have fun they could even share lovers. Ok a Priest of Love sort of condensed from the Priests handbook requires:Must be good, flock or non-clerics may be neutral. Daily is USUALLY CG. Must have a Wis 10 and CIA 13. (Wis or CIA 16+ gets a +5% to experience gained, if both are that is an extra 10% when you earn it)Must have the non-weapon proficiency Herbalism. Duties: Guidance, Marriage and Vigilance (they must support true love)Weapons Allowed: Bow (short), club, lasso, man catcher, net. No armor is allowed. Other limits: Hit die is a D4 NOT a D8. Must be wed by Level 8th UNLESS the GM approves it's a daily of platonic relationships only or something, but that is very rare. It's a betrayal of goals not to wed at that level and that is not good. Spheres of Influence (magic areas they can use):Major Access to All. Animal, Charm, Healing, Romantic, Protection and Summoning. Minor Access to Creation, Divination, Guardian, Plant, Sun and Weather. Granted Powers:Charm/Fascination (a suggestion spell effect that can be used three times a day, HD up to twice the priests level can be affected)Incite Berserker Rage (when zapping a willing warrior one at a time taking a round to a rage. It lasts 6 rounds, grants +2 to hit and damage, the warrior cannot flee as long as an enemy faces them. Can work once per warrior per day.) Inspire Fear (twice per day can do a fear spell like effect)Soothing Word three times a day can remove the effects of a fear spell, calm down monsters up to twice your level in hit dice, cancel a berserker rage)Turn Undead (you can turn undead as per the rules)Common holy symbol might be a girdle (women's belt) or something related to love to ask the GM. That sounds very similar to what I was thinking of. And I would be happy for my character to be your character's lover/spouse. It might even be a bit of a boon to her duties. ^.^ Lances wanted me to play, but I am not sure. Not really a fan of Spelljammer. My big AD&D 2nd Edition game was Plan escape. You could play a Chart OK ;) you seemed to like that idea :)So much activity here! :) now we just need to get some characters together... A pacifistic priest (ESS) would be fine, they would make a fine pilot, and not have to fight, I won't promise that things won't conspire to test the resolve of non-violence :) it is an adventure after all. :)And the Pantheon I use is already simple. The rules are sometimes fun to understand, but they work. I like Charts and AD&D 2nd edition. Just not Spelljammer. Speaking of Plan escape, I found a 3.5 conversion that is 90% done. ^^ I am using the setting more for the Capability of giving the characters a wider variety of races, worlds, etc. To work with. Much more than that it's just the idea.:) Would the entire character concept I have worked with what you're planning, or do I need to modify her views/duties? I hadn't planned on her being completely pacifist, just preferring not to harm living things, as it goes against her beliefs to cause harm in any but the direst circumstances. Is there a goddess of love/sex in your pantheon? Plan escape has a large amount and infinite resources for PC races as well, just, it's my personal preference. *shrugs*Then again, I love Githyanki/Githzerai and Tie flings primarily. Well you are most welcome to join us if you like OK :) The party could very well find itself in the planes at some point. :)Pixiekitn:I use a base Pantheon (as you suggested) so there is a God or Goddess of almost everything. And they remain unnamed. Then I'll go with the class description as posted by Ruby Slippers, it seems like fun. I'll get a character put together over the next few hours, should I PM it to you, Lances? I'd like to play as an outcast githyanki then. ^^ If allowed, since the Rich Queen's death. Outcasts are a bit more common place. As well, it allows me to be something other than "(Evil)" as Outcasts tend to either be evil or some Neutral. A red haired Githyanki woman. A dire omen in the Githyanki culture. Works for me! Yes Pixie Pm it to me...you to OK :)looks like we are getting ready...so the next question is, Start together as a party, or end up together? :) I'd like to start out at least partied up with Ruby Slippers' character. ^.^ We'll work out a combined background. Oh, and funny so far... Zk is talking playing a githyankiRin is talking playing a drowPixiekitn is talking playing a priestess of sorts (I missed the race)and we still have ruby slippers and mindhazingsquid to come up with characters,,, you should be an interesting Ragtag bunch :)That is fine with me pixie. Psionic or Non-psionic Githyanki? Would the Swan may race keep their ability to become birds with the tokens? Or would that go the way of innate spell abilities? And since Spelljammer is kind of like a space game [in many regards]. I guess the Githzerai and Githyanki would come from a singular planet. Would it be alright if I designed the planet? And, well, I guess they'd be considered "outlawed" races as it was, since after all, mainly the Githyanki tend to be the "Slay the cosmos" sort of way. I think a thief. Race depends on the race of her spouse. I'm tempted to make an elf, but with a draw in the group that would be... difficult... to work around. Maybe a half-elf, or a swan may, or even a human. Hey, the party is going to have a Githyanki in it too. Difficult? ^^ If you can get along with a Githyanki, you could be a lover of an Within. ^^ Hey, I could always petition the GM to have a half-gender, like in the Spammer Cloak master books... If we're going to get in a "who's-hated-the-most" competition. Not getting into a competition at all. Just stating that if you can get along with a Githyanki you can get along with a Draw. ^^ I'll have to step down from this game, though. I really don't think it's going to be my style. Why for? Because I can play as a Githyanki? O.o or does that have nothing to do with it? *lol* Well, I think I may simply go with an elf. I'm not entirely sure if I've ever even played one, in all the games I've played. I usually go for either human, or something completely off-the-wall. Now if you could manage to get a Githyanki to get in your bed on -your- terms and is completely weaponless. You'd be the master. ^^ Or Mistress if you prefer. :) Nah, she'll be neither seductress nor mistress. She is simply charged with offering healing and comfort to those who require it and wish it. You missed my joke and flirt. *big sigh and pouts all cute...* >.> Quote from: Z.K. on 16-10-2006, 03:12:46Why for? Because I can play as a Githyanki? O.o or does that have nothing to do with it? That has nothing to do with it at all. Ah, okay. Just curious. :) *lol* I'm a master at not getting jokes. Though I do sometimes admit it's intentional. ^.^ Quote from: pixiekitn on 16-10-2006, 03:16:00*lol* Well, I think I may simply go with an elf. I'm not entirely sure if I've ever even played one, in all the games I've played. I usually go for either human, or something completely off-the-wall. I'll be an elf thief, no her, scout-yes that sounds better than a thief.UPDATE: Ok my character so far... Name: Kira JorundelRace: High Elf Sex: Female Class: Thief Level: 4Armor Class: 4Leather Armor Hit Points: 28Alignment: Gaiety: Goddess of Love (does also respect the God of Thieves naturally)ABILITY SCORES Strength - 17 Hit Prob. +1, Damage Adj. +1, Weight Allow. 85, Max Press 220, Open Doors 10, Bend Bars/Lift Gates 13%Dexterity - 19 Reaction Adj. +3, Missile Attack Adj. +3, Defensive Adj. -4. Constitution - 15 Hit Point Adjustment +1, System Shock 90%, Resurrection Survival 94%Intelligence - 14 # of Languages 4Wisdom - 11Charisma - 15 Maximum # of Henchmen 7, Loyalty Base +3, Reaction Adjustment +3WEAPON PROFICIENCIES (3 SLOTS)~ Long sword~ Dagger~ Short bow NON-WEAPON PROFICIENCIES (8 Slots)~ Languages, Modern (free) - 14d20* Common* Even~ Reading/Writing - 15d20* Common* Even~ Jumping - 17d20~ Tumbling - 19d20~ Tightrope Walking - 19d20~ Swimming - 17d20THIEVING SKILLS & ABILITIES Pick Pockets - 40%Open Locks - 54%Find/Remove Traps - 42%Move Silently - 55%Hide in Shadows - 55%Detect Noise - 40%Climb Walls - 79%Read Languages - 20%Backstab x2SAVING THROWSParalyzation, Poison, or Polymorph - 13Rod, Staff, or Wand - 14Petrification or Polymorph - 12Breath Weapon - 16Spell - 15I'll finish her up later.... going for now more of an athletic and acrobatic thief with a good range of skills. In a fight she'll use either a Short bow (STR 17 Pull so she can do her strength bonus in damage and gets a total of +4 to attack with her racial adjustment) OR a Long sword and Dagger paired (primary hand +2 due to race/strength and offhand +0 to attack)If you are allowing Reading/Writing at a reduced cost or free for starting languages let me know right now each cost me two slots. I'll get a couple of my 2ed stuff on the 20th when I can and make my character then. I can't decide between a saurian and a emic now though. Will we be allowed to start with anything magical, such as Even Chain Mail or other such things? I'm trying to find some armor that would make sense for my character. I think it would have to be at least as decorative as it is protective, preferably more so. Anyway, if not, I'll jut pay extra for masterwork, or something. Edit: Never mind, just remembered Priestess of Love Goddess is not allowed armor. *lol*Edit again: Character mostly finished, I'll post it up here if it helps, and send it to Lances when it is finished. A serious question though. Is this primarily a sex game with NC as it's focus or what? Lances invited me to play, but honestly, aside from the theme of Spelljammer, I have virtually no idea about the campaign and focal points. Seemed to me, it's primarily focused on the actual RP, and combat, and exploration. I just don't get many chances to play a sexual character in And, because it gets kinda weird when it's with my closest friends, you know? Especially since some of them are kinda squeamish. We will try to focus on the role-play with "sex possible" themes. I don't have a problem with sex in a game, I just don't want it to be the dominating factor. Okay, same here lances. Was just making sure before I focused on making a character. Didn't know if it was going to be mainly sexual or not. ^^ Are we using kits? Everybody loves customization! I'm having trouble figuring out what my character would DO with that much money... The only expensive things she would really buy are silk rope, a mirror, holy water and symbol... Maybe some really nice robes, with embroidery and plunging necklines. But even so, that leaves a pretty big donation to her church, even if she keeps the 250 she earned in her 4 levels (Minus a 25g tithe). Quote from: pixiekitn on 17-10-2006, 17:05:57I'm having trouble figuring out what my character would DO with that much money... The only expensive things she would really buy are silk rope, a mirror, holy water and symbol... Maybe some really nice robes, with embroidery and plunging necklines. But even so, that leaves a pretty big donation to her church, even if she keeps the 250 she earned in her 4 levels (Minus a 25g tithe). Ivory backscratchers, jewel encrusted skulls with which to drink the blood of thy enemies from, cabana boys, and a full scale statue of yourself, carved out of ivory taken from baby dire elephants? MMM, cabana boys... No, bad Angie. *lol* Buy some very expensive, magical sex toys? ^^ Hey, RubySlipers, wanna work out the details on our shared background through PM, or here? Base magical items (non potions) start at like 1000gpso even with max starting GP, and the 250 extra, don't expect to get too much good :) Meh, never mind then. I'll get her what I want and then donate the rest except 225g. MMM what about two wedding bands? ??? I think I can work that in. Her basics scratched the surface of her funds, even with a holy symbol and 3 vials of holy water for blessings and marriage ceremonies. Good let's do a joint history to send in together then for both characters, and I'll finish up my character by tomorrow. It's going to take me a bit to make my character as it is. With all the f'n problems. But, it should be fine since my character can be introduced later, if it is possible. Any way I can help, OK? Take your time OK, they can always rescue, save, or meet you later :) Hopefully I should have a char done by tomorrow. So many options, so many choices! Or all of the above. But who would want to save a Githyanki? >.> Maybe because she has a nice ass? *laughs* Hamm, I made a bit of a mistake on the age of my character, is it alright if I edit that real quick? ^^ Olaf, I have my Plan escape material at my grandmother's house in her store room for storage... x.x Going to have to find a net link for an AD&D 2nd Edition Githyanki stats. :(You all may editAgeEye color Hair colorant any time :) Ah, much better. Kinda silly to be a newly married, newly adventurous girl at the age of 243. *lol* I don't even know where I came up with that number... I'll get my plan escape stuff with the rest of my stuff on the weekend Z.K. *hugs* Wow, maybe I'm not as creative as I thought... Looking through other people's characters, there's rather more detail in both descriptions and equipment. I'll have to work a little harder to COE up with more elaborate writings I think. ^.^ Elf, elf, elf. Maybe I should make a dwarf, just to be different. Why not? I'm a big fan of diversity, myself. I'm no elf. Furthermore, I'm a Githyanki. ^^ Like this Githyanki Chica(Dwarf? That's not different! Now a emic, that would be different! *pouts and tries to look cute like a Githyanki would...you know, not killing you or attempting to* ^^ What about a Githyanki? What! Nearly as original. And defiantly cute... When she's not cutting you in two with a silver sword. We mics are not original. To be truly original, you'd have to play lances' new introduced Chart. ^^ I curve the hermit kittens. >.> still can OK the stats are posted for them :) I still want to play a Pithy-withy. I can't find Pithy-withys, can you give me a hint which book they're in? I can find Githzerai, but not Githyankys. Furthermore, I'll try my box sets, but they're for the outer planes. Not as PCs anyway. The Githyanki is a PC like the Githzerai are. But they're covered in more detail in the With specific book and other outer planes materials. But doesn't matter anymore since lances said use the stat adjustments that they have in Plan escape 3.5. On second thought, honestly. I think I might pull out of this game for only one reason. I currently do not have any AD&D 2nd Edition books on hand at the moment and well, I feel like a new player. Furthermore, I don't really like playing system games without a hard or virtual rule book on hand, for my own regards. Quote from: Z.K. on 21-10-2006, 16:49:32On second thought, honestly. I think I might pull out of this game for only one reason. I currently do not have any Adam;D 2nd Edition books on hand at the moment and well, I feel like a new player. Furthermore, I don't really like playing system games without a hard or virtual rule book on hand, for my own regards. I've got a text-only PDF of the three core books and assorted others, which weighs in at 30 megs. It has the three core, complete book of Dwarfs, elves, gnomes/halflings, fighters, rangers, paladins, wizards, priests, druids, thieves, bards, ninjas, psionic and necromancers. It also has legends and lore, monster mythology, tome of magic, Sages and specialists, arms and equipment, DM's Option: High level Campaigns, the three Player's options books, some character sheets AND a map of Gray hawk. But it doesn't have the Complete Book of Humanoids, which makes me sad. :(I could send it to you, I expect. You familiar with YouSendIt? I just need the core rules as it is. It's been since 1998 since I actually played an AD&D game...so yeah. x.all I have for file transfers at the moment is Panda. It's a pretty good program, I enjoy it quite immensely as it is. Now, if I can just manage to upload it somewhere../me fights the Internet Demons! You can upload it on Panda. Panda works more like a personal P2P service. Thanks :)Program is downloaded and, apparently, trying to send its package of PDF goodness. What it does is upload to their P2P network server for easy download. Just send me the.panda file and I'll start downloading immediately. Quote from: Z.K. on 22-10-2006, 01:29:23What it does is upload to their P2P network server for easy download. Just send me the.panda file and I'll start downloading immediately. Ok, I think this link will do it for ya. (") Okay, got it. ^^ Thank you. Luis Roy...gotta love the topless warrior. Oh well, at least she can use Distraction in substitute to an actual AC. ^^ That book doesn't have any actual modifiers, but it has the With's plane shift ability. Since we're mainly going to do space travel, what would be a nice substitute? Knowing how to actually use the helm would be nice :)Skill:Spelljammer Helms Int-1Would recommend our priests switch and existing non weapon for this as well. :) As in ship or a helmet? A helm (despite its name) is actually a chair... You sit in the chair, and it psychically links you to the ship itself, you see what the ship sees, and have control over most of its attached components (sails, anchor, etc.) just not the weapons. For a magic user (priest, mage) or a cryonicist there is a catch, though your ability at the controls so to speak will be very good, you lose all your spells for a number of hours equal to the time you are at the helm. Also unlike our ships there is no "steering" wheel on the deck, the helm is located somewhere inside the heart of the ship usually Ina defendable room. In the living ship I recommended, it can fly itself (it is alive after all), it just needs someone to connect to it an hour a day to make course corrections, and so on, also you'd want someone in the helm for a battle. Anyway I hope that helps :) My character isn't really suited to be someone who would fly. Someone who would perhaps fight like hell, but not fly. Even though it'd be good for a dog-fighter type with. But, I don't want my character like that. It's more of a helm in a nautical sense. I'm planning to make a horn head Saurian, so I could man the chair. Oh, good, I couldn't think of any really suitable reason that Larissa would know how to control a hammer helm. *lol* Well, to be honest there's not a lot of reason a saurian would know, but I'll think of something. Maybe I'm a 12th gender and just inherited the wanderlust. This is why I suggested the living ship, it basically flies itself :) Living ships ARE cool, and you have a few elf-types here that might just work as justification for having an even ship. *nods* You have to stay towards the smaller ones, Like the second one (requires a basic crew of 1) or I think the other small Even one requires a crew of three. And the basic stats are in, just need to work on the background. Heeheehee. Poor Lances. Helene... I'm looking forward to this game! ^.^ Well lovemaking is going to be a bit of a challenge on a small ship for the happy couple, might have to get a big bedroll for two and get creative. ;) So the old Githyanki woman gets out her broom and bumps the bunk up. "Eh! Cut it down up there!" I oddly feel like the only person not going to have sex. o.o Oh, I don't know. I don't expect to be getting any either, hah, hah. So folks we have quite a few characters ready :) any last minute touches should be done. I will tell you that Navigation is two skills Navigation: Sea Navigation: Space Sea Navigation is World Specific to (different stars, landmarks, and so on.) Remember spell casters to take your bonus spells for int (wizard) or Wis (priest) use the wisdom table either way. Also take bonus non weapon proficiencies for number of languages under int. Those who are of races that can learn common know common and their home dialect for frees the saurian player who can't really talk, well sorry :)Also even tho you know common expect some fun on the known worlds, like our own their will be accents and so on :)Lances Quote from: lances on 27-10-2006, 01:43:19Also take bonus non weapon proficiencies for number of languages under int. That'll be a help. Mesa needs Non-Weapon Profs! Quote from: lances on 27-10-2006, 01:43:19So the saurian player who can't really talk, well sorry :)Sorry? Isn't that half the fun with burials? Quote from: lances on 27-10-2006, 01:43:19{snip}Remember spell casters to take your bonus spells for int (wizard) or Wis (priest) use the wisdom table either way. Also take bonus non weapon proficiencies for number of languages under int. Those who are of races that can learn common know common and their home dialect for free{snip}I need to redo my proficiencies and languages then. *lol* I'll update my character on here once I have it worked out. that's fine :) it's all in the character creation thread :) So well... I made an error :) Living ships have many advantages. Except one... they can't land.Also, the small one can only hold 4 people, so I will either give you guys the larger living ship... (which still can't land)Or a different ships have decided to ignore crew requirements if only because any of the NPCs who would help run the ship will be level 0 and thereby nearly useless... So I found some ship links (no pics sorry) they are added in the ships thread. I like the Dragonfly or a small even ship if we can get it. Also, I was asked about spell components only worry about hard to find components or expensive ones (more than 250 GP a piece) I assume that each spell caster carries enough components to cast at least 10 of each spell that requires non-reusable components. (So you hope for no more than 10 space battles between planets and restocking) :) (like the dragonfly (pictured above)(like the Record (only a layout above.) Both would be acceptable The Record has the advantage of being able to land on water or ground The Dragonfly can only land on ground. If you wanted an even ship either the war bird or arrow wing will work. Both only land on the ground. I have stats, working on skills. Character will be up Halloween. Right now, I'm jam packed with work. I have to train three new people. :(The Record looks good :) He-he... Don't look at me. I know little of Spell jamming ships, all I know I learned from book 3 of the Cloak master Cycle. ^.^ Not much detail on the ships on that, just the adventures. Well I have posted a new pollRemoraorDragonflyThose will be the choices as it seems we will be able to start soon :)You as a party will still decide the ships name :) Also, I have set the poll for 3 days, hoping to get us started no later than November 2nd :) I are a few little changes to my character a little more detail and some small changes in her equipment, as well as the changes to her proficiencies. I don't think any of it will be a problem, but if it is let me know. didn't see any issues :) only 3 votes in, but the dragonfly looks to be the clear winner... Think of names folks :) can fly it unnamed for a bit of course :)We will start named or not :) 500 GP an Illiquid head?500 Span Illiquid Head?500 GP anIllithid Head!500 GP an Illiquid Head?!... What kind of MADMAN would hunt Illiquid's for a poultry 500 GP a head? Do you KNOW what those THINGS can DO to you?! How HARD they are to kill? Sweet Zombie Jesus! Well hunting Liquids seems a bit risky and I have to think about my wife she is not a warrior. The cargo transport is 5000 GP, and we know what to expect save the cargo seems to be a mage one. Goddess of Love knows it could be a demon or something. The scientist one seems to be a nice option and needless to say may prove to give romantic moments for wifey to get lucky in particularly beautiful areas- (wraps her arms around her lovely wife and kisses her :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*). I kind of like the third one but will let the Captain decide but if he is stupid enough to do the first one my characters dragging wifey off and finding a new one. >:(>:(>:(>:(Hm... Serendipity's got an oath to think about, but if none of the jobs immediately involve protecting elves from danger, she can wait a level or two before testing herself against liquids. Now if there were Naomi bounties... Kara's not really interested in anything to do with Illinois... Or hunting things for that matter. Nasty business, and no part of it really serves her beliefs. But then, nobody asks the religious types before deciding on missions... *lol* Too bad, too, because divine guidance is always helpful. You all have to pick a leader "Captain" yet anyway. It could very well end up being a priest :) Quiet, unassuming little Larissa? That would be interesting. But then, she'd be perfectly happy travelling the universe presiding over the marriage rituals of various peoples and learning the customs and mating habits. That's where the fun's at. I am setting up a few threads so folks with characters ready can start and have a place to start :) Just married, 5 days prepaid at a nice inn... Larissa is not likely to be...reticent about showing her affections to her wife. After all, it IS a honeymoon, right? *wicked naughty evil nasty grin* Or has Kira been playing hard-to-get thus far? ^.^ Not hard to get just wanted to wait until they were in a new place, had some privacy and was rested after all she is a virgin its important she has all the time to get deflowered beautifully. -* I'm back everyone. As for the Illiquid. Perhaps that is why the captain is going to pick up a Githyanki for the assignment? Who would be crazy to hire one of those yellow skinned bitches? ^^ One of you will be the captain :)the party leader will equate to "ships captain"anyone wish to volunteer to throw their proverbial hat in the leader ring? I volunteer! (I've already got the piloting, navigating and ship re-pairing skills, might as well get a fancy hat to go with it!) Just let me finish up my backstory and disc, and I'll send the sheet to you Lances. Shock trouper and energy helm here. So I have a Bardic-mage for a leader so far. Anyone object? On this page there is a 2nd edition character generator :)And well I have a slight issue... I have not yet been able to locate my books amongst my boxes in my 10X20 storage space *sheepish grin* if someone would be so kind as to send me or post a wisdom chart so character reference towards bonus spells I'd appreciate it :) I promise to figure out which box it is in soon (darn me for not marking all the boxes!) I am simply waiting on In, OK, and mind hazing to complete characters (Especially In, if his character will be the leader.) I will start the adventure shortly within the next day or two. Wisdom chart1-12 0 bonus spells13 1st14 1st15 2nd16 2nd17 3rd18 4th19 1st, 4th20 2nd, 4th21 3rd, 5th22 4th, 5th23 5th, 5th24 6th, 6th25 6th, 7th thanks mind hazing :) You know, people should know better than to interrupt sacred ceremonies. The gods look on such things with disfavor. Not to mention the participants. Someone could get hurt. Or something. *wicked, evil grin* ::chuckles:: Are we supposed to already know each other? Well, you're not in my background, so I would assume not. ^.^ Yay for meeting new people! Unless they're trying to break down our honeymoon night door. *has her Githyanki do just that* Hey, there is a -.whoa... hey now, how do you do /that/ position? >.> Whoever this guy is, he really managed to piss off the most calm and sweet girl in miles. And you know what they say about the quiet ones... No worry use the techniques of Gandhi beloved we will: Refuse to Offer any Services REGARDLESS of Incentives, Go on a Hunger Strike and You If Forced to Pilot will NOT Navigate the Ship but Stall It.CG Elves and those of Faerie answer only to OUR Queen and forced slavery is barbaric anything they might have gotten in good will of our help is now right out the window. And Kara serves a daily not requiring we assist the even people or causes save true love-her daily by its nature will not punish her if she refuses. And my character is a Thief you think she will be pressed into service her captain may end up with a sword in their back or an arrow in the heat of battle. Well it's definitely going to be fun seeing where it goes. ^.^ He-he never suspect me of taking an easy route ;) Which thread next, boss? Once the ship name is decided I will make a thread for it...for now I suggest everyone moving to "English: Port" so people can meet up running with Lacewings!:) Things seem to have slowed somewhat... I figure one or more people must be busy lately, but hopefully not for long. I'm still very excited about this game and hope to see it pick up soon! ^.^ Just a gentle prod... Wow, that sounded almost like an invitation to preach... *lol* But was it muttered where Larissa could hear? Was that addressed to me? Possible, unless your hearing is an unselfish as your mores. :P Hamm, would it be beyond my character's scope to consecrate the entire vessel? The demon did make mention that it could not have entered had she properly consecrated the room, so if she could do the whole vessel it would do much to ease her own worries. The difference...you could certainly bless the ship in its entirety. This takes a simple component we have, and your characters have salt. :)the rooms under the deck are certainly able to be protected in this manner (the demon could not have moved through you door.)but do remember this is a ship, and it moves, on the ground I would say you could draw your salt circles and protect the ship, but the stuff will simply blow off once you start moving... you can also cast "protection from evil 10'" but it will only protect the ship for the running time of the spell, besides if he has a ship, the ballista bolts and catapult rocks aren't anything that can be protected from :)so sure protect the rooms and lower decks anyplace the salt won't blow off :) since the priestesses got privacy... serendipity, OK's and mind hazings character will have to share a room or do as Gaphreakian is and set up in the cargo bay....eventually you guys will need to buy or umm "acquire" a bigger ship. It's gone pretty quiet lately here... People still wanting to play? Because I am! Me three! :) waiting on runs character to take the helm and go :) the ship is ready just needs a driver :) Quote from: lances on 27-11-2006, 21:57:05waiting on runs character to take the helm and go :) the ship is ready just needs a driver :)Umm? That's pretty much what Morgan is doing. Going to the helm to do her pilot thing and all. I think we need a little direction, we have no destination to aim for, or purpose yet, except to get away, which only really works till we're off planet. Well, we've got a special delivery to Perth while we're at it. Pretty much the captain has two packages to Perth, so that's where you all are going you also have at least 2 more pcs to pick up in space :) once the Captain enters the Helm Thread and sits down we can head off :) Sorry about the vanishing, I was ill and kinda busy.*goes to post*But before I go. Sweet Zombie Jesus, the forum's face lift is butt ugly. Various shades of blue and hot pink do *not* go together! My eyes! They burn like tiny, hateful suns! *poke*Guess the holiday season is a pretty busy one, but I'll keep checking in. ^.^ Waiting for In to post as promised. Quote from: lances on 11-12-2006, 06:21:19Waiting for In to post as promised. Oh. I saw you posted there, so I decided not to post to not step on your toes. :(Sorry I hope everyone's having a good holiday season, and I hope we can pick things back up come the new year!=^.^= the cargo, footlocker, and lumber can be rescued with a mass crew run... and in time... characters merely need to mobilize quickly... as time is not on their side. :)

[Spelljammer Adventures] Out of Character chat place|rating:2.0

Night Times [D&D 3.5 Campaign]

Campaign Opening This is the land of vast deserts, the home of princes and power, one of the many kingdoms of the continent called Drama. A place of constantly shifting power and allegiance, where battles are dictated by coin and prestige, and wars won with cunning and control. You are traveling with a caravan, mostly full of trader families but a couple others of varying occupations and histories. Leaving one kingdom, heading into the lands run by Prince Valarie, you have your own reasons for making this long journey. You, along with your fellow traveler and familiar, continue across the desert trail with 4 wagons of goods. The heads of the few families lead their wagons, and are untalkative at best. There are also a score of guards around, personally hired to make this journey as safe as possible. About half the assembled guards are human, with the rest being the even; some the natural painted elves of the region, the rest of one of the lone desert elf clans in this specific area. Their leader walks near the front of the caravan, his station obvious by his red glistening armor and weapon, and his focused confidence at commanding the others. Other than them, a single unaffiliated trader walks with a small cart being pulled by a camel rather than the normal strong trained horses here, with his goods covered by a thick blanket. He gives a short wave and a smile to anyone who bothers to give him even a passing glance. Judging by his small stature he is likely some type of decilumen, but his features are too covered to be sure of what exactly he is. There are also a couple children, specifically a small girl and boy, running around the wagons, unheeding the words of their parents to be calm. They played tag with energy and gusto not often seen while traveling beneath the unblocked sun. The caravan has been traveling for about 2 days now. The leader of the guard has told everyone there that we should be there before nightfall, into the large town of Organ’s Peak. Even now it can almost be seen at a distance, not the town itself but the large plateau it is built upon. You will be there very soon now. So, how do you spend your time on this journey now? Serra Delta sat in the caravan, keeping out of the heat while Slumber played with the children. Her scarf was wrapped over her head and she had on a pair of dark lenses that hid her red eyes. The other merchants had been nervous around her, some believed her a mage, others believed her a prion of some strength, and some were just unnerved by Edward, her travelling companion. However, they all seemed to love Slumber, especially the kids, her natural playfulness and strange cuteness made her quite loveable, even the guards had a soft spot for the little fey. Right now, Slumber was playing tag with the children, running around rather than flying, it brought smiles to the faces of many on the caravan, and the kids were having fun while keeping relatively close to the caravan. Once the kids grew tired, she'd sing for them, like she had the day before, so they'd sleep even in the heat of the day. Edward on the other hand, had grown bored and wandered over to the merchant with the camel and began talking to him, making idle conversation for the most part, though he eventually asks,"I'm curious, what do you deal in?" Serra, however, went to the front of the caravan to talk to the leader,"mind a little conversation?"she asks the man in red armor. She knew her maneuverability and weapon would give her the advantage against someone like him, but she didn't intend to have to use it. Her voice was a little flat, and had a touch of what could only be described as a low roll. The small merchant smiled at Edward and politely responded through much of the conversation, but was obviously more energetic to speak of his trade." Well my good sir, most of my work done is in general trade. Simple goods to be traded for other goods where they are needed. Salt, cloth, uncut gems, or sometimes better worked ones when I am able to get hold of them. I also have a side business in various pieces of kit. Gear for an assortment of people, from the group of men journeying in search of a new oasis, to the intrepid adventurer hoping to hunt through ancient ruins. That is my stock in trade." He lifted the blanket just slightly, so that Edward could see various supplies. Lamps, clothing, gear of many types all lay within his cart." I will sometimes also take on requests for a decent fee since I do more varied and consistent travel than most caravans with their routes and patterns." The children did greatly love Slumber, and though she did stick out as a different sort of creature in this land, she was well adored for her demeanor and way with the kids. As the past day, the kids did go to lay and rest, and again they waited eagerly to hear more of Slumber's music. The leader of the guard smiled a bit and nodded to Serra"I do not mind at all. It gives me something else to do, besides stare around. Are you planning to stop in Organ's Peak, or are you with the caravan all the way to Herpes City?" He continued to walk alongside the front wagon of the caravan, readjusting his chain suit in the heat and keeping his hood low enough to keep the sun from his eyes, but tried to leave more of his face exposed if he could. "I'm not sure, I'm new to the area and have yet to hear about our locations beyond their name and who the leaders are,"Serra replies,"and my trade is rather unique, so the more you can tell, the better handle I can get on where I can best ply my abilities." Slumber begins a low song, a lullaby she'd heard a mother sing when they had been on the ship, she sang it word for word, having only learned what it meant when Serra had translated it from even. A simple song, really, but it sounded so beautiful in even." Interesting, do you carry herbs, alchemical reagents, or lab equipment?" Edward asks curiously. The warrior nodded and crossed his arms as he took time to think." Well Organ's Peak is a nice enough town. Has the typical essentials, so it is an easy place to stop for trade. It also has a home for the regional Order of the Wolverine, which are a sort of warriors guild that does work as long as there is a promise of great battle. I tend to avoid them though. Some members are known to take more unscrupulous work." He sighed and shook his head." Herippas City is the current capital of Prince Valarie's land. It is farther from here, another few days of traveling. But it is the center of commerce for the region, so you are likely to find more goods and opportunities out that way. They also have more of the various Order bases too, and they do most of the hiring for unique work. To tend to get most of the jobs from people around here, but are sometimes willing to shuffle the jobs off to freelancers. It is also the best place to get news on local events and the current political situation." The trader sort of shrugged, and spoke in his low cordial voice." Well yes and no sir. I do not have any reagents or herbs with me, unless you mean to make tea, but for some reason I don't feel that's the case." He chuckled a bit." But yes I do have the proper materials to set up a small alchemy lab. A lucky find I managed to buy off a family two towns back. Still in good shape too." The various families who were around to hear smiled and quietly clapped for Slumber. They weren't quite as wealthy as the leading families, but they did have more than enough coin to spare for such kindness and a lovely tune as well. They gave Slumber a total or 17 GP in a small cloth bag, lined with silver embroidery. "Interesting,"Serra says in regard to Organ's Peak,"the Order of the Wolverine sound like they'd make good drinking buddies, but little more than that. Anything on the flora and fauna of the area?" If I stop there I'd have to see what they see as a 'great battle', if I could hire them for aid with the bigger creatures I may just settle there." It sounds like it'd be an area that would be harder to stay unattached to one of the Orders, but it may be worth looking into. Major trading cities always have the most interesting things going through them," and a decent black market if you know where to look, she says,"although I doubt anyone has my... unique set of skills, I believe I'm the only one that knows the trade at all."" I'm not much for politics, none of my family has been, but it does sound like the better of the two destinations."" Hm, once Serra and I find a place to set up shop, an alchemy lab would come in handy,"Edward says lightly,"will you be stopping at the same towns as this caravan? If so we'll see if we can't set up shop somewhere and purchase the lab equipment before you leave town. Until then, we'd really have no place to put it." Slumber chirps, a little surprised that she got paid for her song, a quick"thank you,"is all she can think to say. She grabs the bag lightly, and lifts off, flying over to Serra to drop off the coin. When Slumber arrives, she finds Serra talking to the armored man, so she just lands on her backpack,"Serra, look,"she says, holding up the coin pouch,"they gave me gold for my singing!"she says happily in Diatonic as said amalgams looks at the bag of gold. Serra smiles at the excitable insect,"How about we set up a pouch for you, then. Any gold you earn, you can keep. I'll carry it so you don't tire yourself out, okay?"she replies in Common, petting the furry part of Slumber's thorax. She opens a pouch and Slumber empties the coin purse into the pouch, then flies off to return the pouch, once again saying thank you for the gold. If allowed to keep the pouch, she'd fly back and see if it could be fashioned into a carry bag. The red-armored warrior smirked a bit when she talked about unique skills but nodded politely." Well most of the continent has the same plant as, shrubs and weeds, some cacti, and a few larger trees where there is actually the water for them to grow. I don't know of any particular types of flower or similar you may be looking for, it's not my area of expertise. As for the politics, unless you are one of the merchant families or groups, or aim to work for one of them, it isn't something that should bother you. In this region the Prince Valarie runs things, and has alliances with the other local larger trading groups, particularly the E-met family and the Central Great Wastes trading group. That's about the important bits here at least. And there are different things for where each area is controlled by different Princes or Princesses or what have you."Meanwhile, the small merchant sort of shrugged and smiled." Perhaps. I know I am going with them to Organ's Peak, and stopping there to make trade for a bit. Whether I will continue with them to the city, I'll just have to decide later. If not I'm not too bothered over it. I can at least hold onto these supplies for you. I'll keep them in reserve." He winked at Edward then offered a hand." Haven't rightly introduced myself yet. M' Name's Brogan." The leader of the guard watched as Serra and Slumber conversed, speaking more after she left." That is an interesting friend you have there. Haven't seen creatures like that much in these parts, especially not ones that could talk, and sing. Will the mysteries of this world ever cease?" He chuckled softly. And the merchants who gave Slumber the bag insisted that she keep it; a minor gift to offer for the gratitude. "She's a beautiful creature, and quite intelligent, she's actually related to the Tirana eyeing according to Edward, nasty beasts that use humans to incubate their young, but the mind leech eyeing are so different from them, it's hard to believe they're related at all,"she looks back at the captain,"They're rare even in their homelands to the north, mainly because they feed on psionic energy and there are very few prions there. They'd likely thrive here, they'd make great companions even for the common folk with some psionic potential. Even then, they can live on plants and smaller insects."" Edward Bones, though most call me Dr. Bones,"Edward replies,"and that's much appreciated. Perhaps we could do dealings in the future, I'm sure alchemical items must be in high demand, among both adventurers and the common man,"he continues,"Serra, Slumber, and I are all decent alchemists and could do commissions easily enough." Slumber rubs into the merchants, a bit like a cat, then flies back to Serra, resting on her shoulder as she continues talks with the captain,"You know, I asked about the fauna of the area as well, not just the flora. Desert animals are very different from what I'm used to, and I've heard of a few that are interesting, like the Hornbeam Track and the Sand Hunter" The captain crossed his arms and waited in silent thought before deciding to address her, leaving the conversation on Slumber and her species to the side for now." Well I'm not sure what a Hornbeam is, but yeah we do have some other creatures. Standard tamed animals include the camels that are used for carrying burdens, as well as some strong horses that we are rather proud of. With wild creatures, the most common to be seen in the wastes are the ash worms, the Camelopardalis, the standard wild scorpions, though of course with enough travel you find some that are not so common, like the strange psionic offshoot known as chevrons, vicious jackals, fearsome dune winders if you travel too far from the standard paths. There are others, like the Sand Hunter you mentioned, but those are the ones I have most encountered. Hmm, I suppose I could name a few others, such as-"In the middle of his speech one of the rear guard hurried to the captain. "Sir, we have followers! They look to be bandits on horseback!" The captain gave him a dubious look." We do not have bandits usually on the controlled paths, but I will check." He took a spyglass from the small pack on his belt and looked back behind them, then uttered a low curse." I have no clue who these people are, or who they think they are, but they certainly aren't other traders. I suppose some of us should head back to either speak to them or drive them off. You units there, come with me." He pointed out 10 of the soldiers there, leaving about half the company behind, then turned to Serra." You are but a guest and traveler, and so have no particular reason you have to assist us, but if you have any potential skills in your unique setup that will help here, you are most welcome. Or you and your allies could stay here with the rest if you wish. I do not fully trust this situation, hence my leaving a good portion of the force behind to guard the caravan. What do you wish to do?" "Slumber, get the doctor, this could be of interest,"Serra says, sounding like she'd just made a discovery, while Slumber flies off,"I'm hoping we won't need Ed's help on this, but he's one of the few I've met that can treat injuries well without magic or psionic." Meanwhile, Slumber reaches Ed and tells him the situation in diatonic,"bandits? Sounds interesting,"he turns to the merchant,"you may want to get closer to the caravan, if things go bad they'd target you for looking like an easy target,"he says, then heads off to help with the bandits, Slumber following close behind." We're going to fight?" Slumber asks, again in diatonic." Possibly, Serra is good at negotiations, we may just avoid a fight if things go well. If not, well, we're going to have a bit of fun,"Dr. Bones says with a smirk. Slumber nods. Ed and Slumber join up with Serra quickly,"mind if I see what we'll be up against? I may be able to give some insight into why they are here,"Edward asks as he joins up with the others. The captain and his selected guards waited at the back of the caravan while the rest kept moving on ahead, the rest of the guard taking watch position around them. He pointed the other way, at a steadily growing cloud of dust and sand." There are the ones following us. You can just make them out on horseback. They don't have any emblems or flags that I would recognize. If you have any abilities to see farther than this, use them now, because they are approaching fast." Him as well as the other guards had no horses of their own. "I meant with the spyglass,"Ed says with a deadpan expression while Slumber facepalms and Serra chuckles lightly. The captain rolled his eyes and muttered." I have already done that, as I mentioned, but go ahead. Be quick with it though." He held the spyglass out to Edward with a curt expression and somewhat snappy movements." Or we'll be seeing them all too close." "Thanks,"Ed says as he attempts to identify anything he can about the bandits. Spoiler Hide Knowledge (Local): (1d20+5)[19] As Ed looks at them from a distance, the red and brown clad horse riders continue to charge at them. They do not seem to have much to identify them with, all covered faces, no flags or banners raised. He can however see that they are wearing patches on their shoulders, in the design of black and silver blades over a bunch of weird black marks. Try as he might to think, they do not seem to represent any local Order's or any of the Prince's forces, though they do stand out for just that quality. The people have their curved swords raised as they ride, and even know the sound of their yelling and roaring is starting to be heard. "They have a mark on their shoulders... I can't ascertain the meaning behind them, but I suggest keeping one or two alive to get some information in case it means something, you ready for them Serra?" Edward says as he hands back the spyglass." I think I'm going to give them a bit of a scare,"she says in such a way that one could hear the grin, she pulls off her scarf, and takes off her goggles, revealing her eyes to be red and her teeth to be sharpened fangs, all of them, then wraps the surrounding scarf right hand, the one with the psi shot. Edward nods and pulls off the glove on his left arm, revealing the discolored arm and hand ending in a wicked set of claws that looks somehow elegant as well as intimidating, also revealing some of the bony armor that covered his body. He then pulls his club out. Serra then looks to the captain,"ready for some fun?"she asks as she focuses herself to fuel her psi shot with more power. Spoiler Hide Concentration: 21 (Taking 10) Assuming for now that the faerie blade ability of the trickster applies to natural attacks as well as manufactured ones The leader of the warriors here gave them both stunned and almost bemused looks, but had no time to do more than just shake his head a bit. As the horse riders approached ever closer, and the caravan went onward away from them, the red-armored warrior called out to them all." Try to bring those you can in. To battle!" His fellow soldiers also called out as he did and readied their various weapons, sword and bow, for combat. Spoiler: IOC Hide The knight in red uses two auras: one gives a higher bonus to attack and damage while flanking, the other gives +2 to AC for all allies, counting your characters. And with that, roll initiative! Here or in the IOC thread, whichever works though I would suppose that thread is more the place for it. And yes, by my reading that does apply to the natural attacks as well, including even the slight appearance change I guess. Glorious looking claws! Edward starts things off by simply examining the lead opponent, then dashes in to try and get a quick KO with a club to the head. Spoiler Hide Targeting L7 Knowledge (Local): (1d20+5)[13] If Successful, +1d6 damage on attacks each round from Precision Damage Attack: (1d20+2)[7] CRT Confirm: (1d20+2)[20] Damage: (1d6)[4] Faerie Blade: (1d6)[6] Precision Damage: (1d6)[5] Serra follows up with a bolt of psionic energy hitting another of the bandits,"Experiment Initiated,"she mutters under her breath with a grin. Spoiler Hide Targeting D7 Attack: (1d20+9)[21] CRT Confirm: (1d20+9)[12] Damage: (2d4+5)[9] Slumber, however, flies straight up, keeping an eye out for more bandits that may be hiding. Spoiler Hide Spot: (1d20+13)[15] Listen: (1d20+13)[26] Ed swung but the horse rider was fast, turning aside from the club attack. Serra shot well and struck the bandit hard with the psionic bolt. He toppled from his horse into the sand, and the horse made to run far from there without someone to guide it. As Slumber looked out over the wide open plains of the open desert, she was able to see motion from the east. A few other horse riders, similar to the ones already being fought, were charging at the caravan from a ways off but were approaching fast. The warriors rushed the bandits, attacking valiantly to fight them off. The bandits fought with equal fury and might, and a number fell on both sides. Arrows fired by both sides helped in reducing the number of people on the field. The red-suited warrior called out from his place to the others." Do not falter men and women! Strike them all down with haste!" The one in front of Ed saw no point in joining them as he had a foe of his own, and lashed out with a wild scimitar strike. Spoiler: Bandit D7 Hide Attack Roll (1d20+5)[16] CRT Confirmation (1d20+5)[18] Damage (1d6+2)[3] Meanwhile one rode away from the others, and this one fired a shot from her bow at Serra. Spoiler: Bandit R6 Hide Attack Roll (1d20-1)[5] Critical Confirmation (1d20+3)[8] Damage (1d6)[1] Spoiler: IOC Hide Back to your turns. Red is using his rally ability, which gives a +1 to AC for all allies around and +1d6 to weapon damage. Slumber immediately calls down in Diatonic to inform Serra of the other bandits,"Captain, more riders coming from the East,"she says as she levels another shot, an arrow whizzing past her head. Spoiler: Psi shot at H6 Hide Attack: (1d20+8)[24] CRT Confirm: (1d20+8)[20] Damage: (2d4+5)[11] Rally Damage: (1d6)[1] Edward, meanwhile, grins as he brings down his club, and brings his clawed hand up to scissor them, twisting away from the scimitar, which bounced harmlessly off his bony armor. Spoiler: Club camp; Claw at L7 Hide Club Attack: (1d20+2)[7] CRT Confirm: (1d20+2)[3] Damage: (1d6)[3] Rally Damage: (1d6)[2] Surgical Precision: (1d6)[4] Faerie Weapon: (1d6)[4] Claw Attack: (1d20-3)[14] CRT Confirm: (1d20-3)[15] Damage: (1d6)[1] Rally Damage: (1d6)[4] Surgical Precision: (1d6)[6] Faerie Weapon: (1d6)[4] "Slumber, warn the other guards with the Caravan!" Serra calls out, getting Slumber to fly off to do just that. It was not only safer for her, it was a necessary precaution. That made 2 more bandits down for the count. Serra's bolt struck the far off enemy hard, taking her to the ground and off her horse. The same is said for the bandit that Edward lashed at, who blocked the club with his scimitar but wasn't ready for the claw, and was knocked from his steed. That meant two more horses running off to the wild. Rushed combat continued, with the warriors clearly having the upper hand. A couple of them fell, but in turn many more bandits hit the dust, never to rise. The red-armored warrior rose a hand that glowed a faint red and made a sweeping motion at one of the few horses left with a standing bandit on it still. While the horse seemed to slightly waver, it continued on unimpeded. He cursed quietly then resumed encouraging the others. Spoiler: Mechanics Hide Attempted use of a power on the horse at O7 failed, used move action to continue the rallying. Meanwhile, the bandit atop that horse was near Edward again. "You will suffer for standing against us, fool!" he called out and slashed. Spoiler: O7 Bandit Hide Attack Roll: (1d20+5)[21] CRT Confirmation: (1d20+5)[19] Damage: (1d6+2)[4] At that time another bandit rushed a bit ahead from the back line, and took a shot at Serra. Spoiler: Q7 Bandit Hide Attack Roll: (1d20-1)[3] CRT Confirmation: (1d20+3)[21] Damage: (1d6)[3] Meanwhile with the caravan, Slumber had spoken to one of the warriors, who looked that way then nodded with a stressed look on his face. "Very well then, thank you for this warning. There are 10 of us here, with hope we can take on these other attackers, or stall them until the captain returns." The figures were some ways off, but there were 4 horse riders, 3 obviously being led by the fourth. "Your side party's in for a surprise!" Serra called out when a second arrow whizzes by, she didn't even flinch. Leveling her hand at the next target, and letting fly another bolt of psionic power. Spoiler: Psi shot at O7 Hide Attack: (1d20+8)[25] CRT Confirm: (1d20+8)[14] Damage: (2d4+5)[12] Rally Damage: (1d6)[1] "You seem to be the ones dropping like flies, and the Caravan's been warned of your riders, we have the advantage!" Spoiler: Full Attack M7 Hide Club Attack: (1d20+2)[21] CRT Confirm: (1d20+2)[15] Damage: (1d6)[6] Rally Damage: (1d6)[5] Surgical Precision: (1d6)[1] Faerie Weapon: (1d6)[3] Claw Attack: (1d20-3)[1] CRT Confirm: (1d20-3)[6] Damage: (1d6)[5] Rally Damage: (1d6)[4] Surgical Precision: (1d6)[1] Faerie Weapon: (1d6)[4] Slumber flies up to check on the battle with Serra and Edward,"most of the enemies are down, they'll be heading this way soon." That was 2 more bandits thrown down at the hands of Serra and Edward. The warriors with their red leader quickly moved to take down the last 2 bandits, sustaining only minor injuries then. He had heard Serra's and Edward's words in combat and so pointed his soldiers toward the caravan." Quickly, everyone, hurry to the caravan! We need to stop this next attack as fast as we can. Do not allow the civilians to be harmed!" While they started hurrying to the caravan, which was now a good 120 ft away, the group of 4 other bandits was nearing the caravan. The woman who led them smirked as she urged the other 3 on. A few of the warriors assembled on that side of the caravan intercepted them, though the others stayed in their vigil around the group, watching for any other threats. Spoiler: IOC Hide 130 ft between Serra and back end of the caravan, another 20 ft to the attackers. I will likely make a new map soon to reflect this. Both Serra and Dr. Bones run to try and reach the caravan ASAP. Serra deciding to take out the leader, she grabs her focus, imbues it with power, and shoves it into her weapon for her next shot,"Hey Ed, remember that time with the orcs when we first got here?" Serra asks the doctor, getting a grin in reply. Once close enough, Serra simply grins at the apparent leader and shouts,"Last bandits we faced ended up as bloody smears in the sand, you won't last much longer than them, and once we're done, you'll have Ed here to deal with!" Right after that, Dr. Bones shows his hobby by saying,"I think I want to dissect you now,"with a mad look on his face. Spoiler Hide Serra's Intimidate: (1d20+14)[34] +2 if Ed's Check Exceeds 15 Edward's Intimidate: (1d20+5)[23] The leader of the small group of bandits rose her scimitar high, charging at the assembled people with a cocky smirk. But it was quickly wiped from her face as she shook in fear of the 2 sadists. She yelled to the other bandits,"Screw all this, Torvald can come himself if he wants to risk his hide to demons!" As Serra got close a quick spinning funnel of flame rose before her, obscuring the group. It only lasted a moment but once it was gone the bandits had turned and were heading off the way they came, the "leader" in front of them now and charging ahead faster than they could keep up. They hadn't gotten far when a wave of shifting sand rose from nowhere and obscured them. By the time it faded again, they were gone. The moment the bandits are gone Serra busts out laughing,"Oh Girl! That was hilarious! Did you see their faces!?" Ed just chuckled as Slumber came down to perch on Serra's shoulder,"that worked like a charm, Serra, the orcs weren't even that scared."" Sorta disappointed I didn't get to test the full capabilities of my bracer, but that was fun enough I don't mind it nearly as much as I would in any other situation,"she says, reclaiming the energy she put into said bracer and pets Slumber gently. The warrior in red had approached them by then and sort of rolled his eyes." Yes, you two did well. Thank you for the assistance in the fight, and for preventing a fight here. That many fewer people dead." He halfway looked back the way they came." I wonder if it is even worth going back to look for survivors to interrogate." One of the warriors with them offers to go back and search, provided the others agree with this plan of action and the caravan is willing to wait. While that is being decided that red warrior gives the 3 a couple of odd looks." So, you are Serra, Edward and Slumber then? And these are some showing off of the unique talents you mentioned previously then?" "Not even close, these are just combat abilities,"she pulls up her sleeve, revealing the gauntlet-bracer hybrid,"had this made back home, it focuses my psychic abilities into a form of offense, it's pretty useful, Ed's the one that actually showed off his skills."" I'm a medical practitioner and a member of the lower fey courts, the claw and bone plates are my work specifically, though my claw is infused with the essence of the fey realms, it makes me quite the capable combatant. And there are survivors in the bandits, of that I am certain,"Ed remarks." My talents take much longer to pull off. Sometimes several months depending on what I'm working with at the time. If you're interested I'm sure I could give a demonstration once I get the materials necessary for it." That warrior gave them both a look that clearly showed that he regretted asking." Maybe. Maybe not. I suppose it isn't my place to question the legality of...of whatever you are really talking about. And whatever you both are." He offered a hand in salute." Just sharing that my name is Salazar, and thank you for the assistance, as well as good luck on your travels." One of the guards returned with one of the bandits, tied up and gagged. "Completely legal, at least in my homeland, not sure about here. I've only done practice runs really, you have any idea how hard it is to get a wolf and a leopard to get along long enough to perform the ritual?"" You tried fusing a leopard and a wolf? That's an interesting combination, what happened to it""Um, it sorta ended up being completely stupid and playful rather than being an attack animal, ended up getting blown up by a sorcerer it wanted to play with that thought it was attacking him,"Serra says." That's unfortunate, it is lucky it was only a test run of your skills and not an actual commission,"Ed replies. By that time, the "prisoners" had come in,"mind if I interrogate the bandits? As you saw earlier, I can be quite persuasive when I need to be." Salazar looked at Serra with raised eyebrow." I don't know if there are any legalities against it, since each prince has their own laws in their territory. I worry more about moral quandaries in such a thing. That said, I am no paladin. I leave you to your activities, the thoughts on them, and the consequences thereof." He looked toward the returning guard and the bound bandit, and shrugged." Feel free to interrogate him as you wish. But do not kill him. It is harder to get answers with Speak with Dead than from a living person." With that he walked away to coordinate the rest of the trip. One of the merchants, a sort of timid man, approached Slumber specifically to speak to her. "I wished to let you and you ally know that, with the delay, we should make it to Organ's Peak a bit after dusk. You can even see the plateau in the distance from here. But since it will be so much later, you are all free to come dine on the travel with my family." He gave a small smile to the eyeing. "Our children especially hope that you can make it." "Considering my work is my own creation I doubt there are any specific laws against it besides using endangered or rare species,"Serra shrugs,"won't be my problem until I start actually practicing it here though."" Ed's a doctor"Serra points at Edward,"he can keep the guy alive, and I probably won't need to cause physical harm."" Should be easy enough, unless you resort to physical harm of course." Slumber replies with a happy chirp and saying she'd be there, but would need to speak with Serra and Edward to see if they wanted to come along. With that, Serra calls Slumber over and heads to interrogate the bandit with Ed and Slumber, with a brief pause for Ed to pick up his medical tools. She walked over and simply picked up the bandit and draped her over her shoulder, Slumber delivers a small bite to inject her poison and uses her disorienting touch to make him more suggestible, followed by detecting if he had any psionic potential. If he is, she'll drain off as many power points as she can so he can't use anything. After getting to a relatively quiet area to work, Serra puts down the bandit and takes a moment to let Ed in to heal up the bastard then tie him/her down securely with Slumber's help. Spoiler Hide Taking 10, for a 15 total, to wake up the Bandit. Slumber Taking 20 on Use Rope for a 24 total with Ed's Aid Another Ed Aiding Another by Taking 20 for 21 total Once awake, Slumber uses a quick Aversion to get him to be scared of Serra to start with (DC 17). After that, she just grins,"welcome to the land of the living, shall we talk?"her grin turns absolutely evil at that point. Spoiler Hide Intimidate: (1d20+14)[25] The bandit looked around warily and confused at first upon waking, then as the woman leaned to face him and grinned, he pushed away as much as he could in his bindings. He looked around and squirmed, panting and trying to break from the binds, to no avail. "What in the Nine Hell's do your freak want from me? What could I possibly have to tell you? You got rid of our raid, our attack failed, what more do you need?" Spoiler: Mechanics of success Hide With your well-made Intimidate check, you can ask him a good number of questions to which he will try to answer. So make sure you make them good questions. "I really only have two questions for you at this point in time, who is Torvald and why were you raiding this caravan for him?" Serra says, grinning widely, which showed off her shark-like teeth. The bandit continued to struggle and sweat, but answered the questions promptly. "Torvald is the leader of our band, and a good one at that! He knows just what to do to get us all well off. You should consider joining, we could use someone like you around." He gave a kinda weak smile. "We do not know the purpose behind our coming here. Of course, we always look for what supplies we can for survival, but we had another reason. Only Kasey knew what was the true reason behind our attack, but don't take us for idiots. We all knew there was some more serious reason." "Kasey? Was she the woman leading the side party of bandits? If so, she ran the moment Ed here said he was interested in dissecting her,"said mad scientist waves with his gloved hand,"I think I'd consider working with your band, but, my services are expensive, so I'd likely need to be in a larger city most of the time. How about I make an offer for you and your leader, one that may prove fruitful for both of us." The bandit gave a slight shiver at the thought of dissection, but decided to speak fully to all that she asked, rather than just the last part. "Yes, Kasey is a strong warrior compared to the rest of us, a manipulator and practically devoted priest of flame. But she is one of the lieutenants. Just one of them." He seemed a little ill at ease thinking of her. At the mention of an offer, the bandit gave a half smirk. "I have no authority with the boss. If you wanted to make some sort of deal, grabbing Kasey would have been smarter, if harder to grab information from. But my first concern is living. So I can listen to this offer and see if I can help, provided I am not...dissected afterward." He cringed again. "It's more a message to be passed on,"Serra comments,"I have a unique skill set, you see, and I offer my services to anyone that can pay for them, as does Edward here. We're going to be in Organ's Peak by this evening, and will likely remain for a day or two before heading to Herpes City, if your boss is interested, tell him he can contact me at one of those locations, either in person or through one of his lieutenants, and I want you to come with them when they do show up, I won't even talk to them otherwise. If you don't pass the message along, it won't be any skin off my back, but I'm not sure how you being captured and released without it would go over with your superiors,"she grins at that,"just something to consider,"she extends the blade of her bracer and sets to cut the bindings,"I would like to know your name before I let you go,"she says, just short of cutting the rope. He looked at her rather strangely. "The name is Colo. Colo Earth banned. I will bring this message miss, but he will naturally need more to go on. You must explain at least something of these 'unique abilities' so that I may tell him. What is he to assume otherwise then if I can only tell him 'maybe some psionic things'?" He still tried as much as he could either way to squirm away from her, still feeling very anxious. The merchant family from before approached Slumber again, this time with the mother of the family speaking. "We have dinner prepared, it is a fair mix of things. Loaf of sweet bread, some cooked boar from a great distance from here, some prepared vegetables. Tell your friends that all of you are invited." With that they walked away, the children waving excitedly and greeting Slumber before going to a fair-sized covered wagon. Serra grins,"I can do that,"she replies,"it would be easier if I actually had the materials already set up or had more than just a couple schematics of old projects and trial runs,"she says as she rifles through her pack, then pulls out one,"aha, here we go! This is an old one of mine and the one that would be of most interest, I believe,"she shows the schematic to be a small book containing detailed sketches of a horse with specific parts highlighted, then a cheetah with the same, followed by what looked like a very muscular cheetah with a horse-like mane and tail,"this is a orbital, a fusion of horse and cheetah I made on special order to fund my earlier projects. It takes the cheetah, increases its size and endurance, gives it a slightly altered body structure to make it an ideal mount, and then allows it to live on either meat or plant life. This one was a little less aware of its surroundings than most, but it was quite the success on my part. With Ed around he could have augmented it further to be naturally armored and possess a much greater carrying capacity than a horse. And I can do the same with almost any creature, so long as it is a living creature. I can even combine humans with other creatures to give them animal abilities if needed..."she grins,"I think that will do for an example,"she says, as the bug returns from talking to the family,"and I believe that Ed's grafts and all three of our skills with alchemy would be more than worth it to come see us regardless." Serra cuts the rope,"we'll be seeing you again, Colo Earth banned,"she says as he no doubt leaves as fast as humanly possible with the aversion still placed on him. Once he's gone, Slumber relays the message,"You and Ed go on ahead, I'm going to talk to Salazar first." Close ran off without another weird, partially scared by her power and partly by what she was suggesting that she could do. A few guards noticed him leaving and looked at her with suspicion, but none acted upon it. Salkamar was currently near the front of the caravan, speaking to a couple guards about keeping watching and the leader of the caravan for guiding into Organ's Peak. Serra walks over to Salazar,"Colo, the bandit I interrogated, was rather interesting. He supplied some good information for a grunt,"she comments,"apparently the bandit leader is a man named Torvald, with the woman leading the secondary party being one of his Lieutenants, apparently called Kasey. He doesn't know why they attacked the caravan, he was just doing what he was told. Easy to see that much, he's sending a message to them now,"Serra grins,"I doubt he'll be a problem in the future,"she says. Salazar nodded and sighed somewhat." Very well then. Damn, had hoped to keep him and take him in for justice, but well enough." He looked in the surrounding area." We shall be in Organ's Peak in a couple of hours. When there I will look at all posted bounties and see if there is anyone with those names. Thank you for the good work Serra." He smiled politely at her and bowed his head in acknowledgement of her actions." You can rest or eat until we get there. I doubt there will be any more excitement today." "Slumber got an invitation with a family travelling with the caravan, Ed and I were invited to join them to be polite, I doubt they'll be comfortable with either of us there,"she has a light smile,"if you need us, we'll either be there or in the caravan to sleep." She heads off to see the family, replacing her scarf so she wouldn't scare them like she did with the bandit earlier, if it weren't for Slumber, Ed and I would likely have lost touch with the more common man if she weren't around, she thought, before she wouldn't have cared if she scared someone, with Slumber around, she did. It was nice being able to hold a conversation with someone without terrifying them all the time. Salazar stayed up front and kept coordinating the watch, but focused on the two strange, almost alien travelers with them. He'd need to watch them closely for certain... Spoiler: IOC Hide Alright, I will let you decide, a bit of RP with the family at dinner, maybe ask some questions, or skip ahead to Organ's Peak? Spoiler Hide Will just skip to Organ's Peak After a few more hours of travel, the caravan rode up through the gates of Organ's Peak. The town was hidden in a way, in a group of hills but buried in such a way that the lights of the town can only be seen from the northwest, the only side of the town not against the cliffs and stones. The gate was the grandest thing about it, a massive block archway adorned with vigils, containing a thick rock door blocking out the desert. The caravan made its way to the center of the town, where the shops lie. Here merchants would do their business, either bringing things to resupply the places here, or to sell wares of their own. Either way, most were just making small preparations for work the next day, seeing as how you all arrived late at night. Salkamar made his way over to Serra, Edward, and Slumber. He now wore only simple clothing, though his crimson weapon still gleamed at his side." Well here we are now. The caravan will be staying here for 4 days, then traveling off to a few smaller settlements on the way to Herpes. Make what arrangements you will, I suppose. In the morning I am off to speak to the leader of this town, to inform him of the bandit attack. What may I ask will you be doing?" Though he asked politely he seemed to have a stronger interest in their answer than implied. "Plan? Well, earn some extra cash to help pay for my works, try and get some ingredients, and build up a stock of alchemical items,"Serra starts off,"I'm also going to see if I can't set up a bit of trade here, though I doubt I'll be able to offer my more expensive services just yet." Salazar nodded a bit and crossed his arms with a thoughtful expression." So then you are basically doing the same things as a trader, just with a very different stock. In that case I would encourage to perhaps follow the caravan whenever it moves on to the city, for there you will more than likely be able to find more people with the inclination and coin to make use of your talents than here." He bowed to the group." I'm of to rest now. Until next, we speak I suppose." He walked away without waiting for a goodbye, heading to the nearby inn to rest. Serra nods and heads into town to get an inn room, she'd work the next day, crafting as many alchemical items as possible, then get to work on recruiting some help, she might be able to find some people that were good at handling animals, maybe an expert in the field, though she doubted it. Edward and Slumber would likely alternate working on stock and either gathering materials or helping with recruitment, respectively. In this town there was only one real inn for staying at, The Merry Miser. It was a sort of place where things were more calm and easygoing than a rowdy tavern. A few tables were full of people talking, eating, and drinking, just the sort of late night people including a few of the traders from the caravan. A sandy-skinned elf mans the bar, taking drink orders and room arrangements. The build was 3 floors tall, clearly enough to have some varied bedroom within. Serra rents a room for two, preferably with a spot for familiars in it, orders some food for herself and Edward, letting Slumber feed on some of her psychic energy. Once the food was done, she'd start asking around to see if anyone in the area would be willing to rent out an alchemy lab for the next couple of days. The best they have as far as familiars is a fair-sized room with a window sill and a fair view of the town. That as well as the food ends up costing 2 GP for this night. The next day the town is full of activity. The arrival of the merchants has not gone unnoticed, and many people are looking over the many goods and services on offer. Spoiler: IOC Actions Hide Please make a Gather Info check to find a person with an alchemist lab for rent. Serra stretches and heads out with Slumber and Edward to look for an alchemist that was willing to let them use their lab for the next couple of days. Spoiler Hide Gather Info check in IOC: 17 Serra has good luck, there is an alchemist in town there. Her shop is in the central area where the other caravan traders are, called "A Pinch of Magic". The owner of the shop is a middle-aged gnome woman, wearing rather lightweight and bright toned clothing to fit the climate, and with a noticeably darkened left eye. She bows her head when the other walk into the shop, talking in a quiet tone." Well hello, and welcome to my shop. Are you here for potions, reagents, tools? I sell many things, feel free to take a look! Favored by apothecaries and arcane-folk all over this kingdom and some beyond"She chuckled after her grandiose greeting. "Good morning,"Serra says, keeping her scarf up,"I'm Serra, this is Edward, and this is Slumber,"she says with Ed nodding and Slumber waving with a happy chirp, then flits over to the gnome,"I assure you Slumber is quite friendly, she's my familiar,"Slumber offers one of her forelegs to the gnome. The woman chuckles again and waves Slumber's foreleg." I can tell. Many familiars are a lot calmer in behavior, no matter how their masters are. So, how can I aid all of you this day? Shall I show you around, or do you wish to look around yourselves?" She walked from around the counter, holding onto and mixing a couple bottles of liquid. "Actually, we're alchemists ourselves, and were hoping to rent out an alchemy lab for the next few days before we head to the capital,"Serra says,"would you mind us using yours?" She smiled and nodded a bit." Certainly, if you can afford to rent it. I have a good enough stock right now that not using it myself for a handful of days won't hamper my business, but there is still always a price for such things. How about 100 GP a day? That is a good bargain as long as you won't be in town for 5 days." She chuckled again in her casual way. "I was hoping for closer to 30 gold,"Serra replies,"but with three alchemists it can get hectic, so I'd go as high as 40 gold." Edward chimes in,"and with you not needing your lab for the time we'll be here it does not harm your own coffers in any way, quite the opposite in fact."" Not to mention having me around singing might bring in more customers as it is,"Slumber chirps from the counter." Her singing does bring people in,"Serra says as she strokes the little dragonfly's fuzzy thorax. Spoiler Hide Haggling! Serra's Diplomacy: (1d20+19)[22] Edward's Aid Another: (1d20+12)[17] if 15+ add +2 to the roll Slumber's Aid Another: (1d20+10)[11] if 15+ add +2 to the roll The gnome hummed to herself and paced around the counter as she took in their words. After a moment after they were done speak, she smiled and turned to them again quickly." I may be willing to accept such a trade. First I would like to hear the cheerful one sing, so I can be certain that it is as you say, and she may bring in more customers." Spoiler Hide I do not remember the specifics of her singing ability, so I believe you will be making a Perform check here, to entertain her and assure her that Slumber has what it takes. "Slumber,"Serra says,"how about one of the more cheery ones, it fits the atmosphere here." Slumber nods,"Hansen?"she asks, getting a blink from Serra, she smiles,"sure,"she says before Slumber starts to use her wings to make some music, then starts singing an upbeat song. Spoiler Hide Perform (Singing): (1d20+10)[17] Again the woman leaned on her counter, this time to listen to the music. She nodded her head for a little while with the beat but stopped when it became apparent that she wasn't slowing it down. Then after, with a smile she shrugged and said,"Well, that'll do her then. 40 GP is accepted for use of the alchemist lab." She winked at the group of them." Shall I show you to the back where it is?" Serra nods,"that would be appreciated,"she replies, pulling twelve platinum pieces"I'd also like to pay for the three days we'll be here up front. Twelve platinum pieces should cover it,"she continues, handing the bright, silvery coins to the gnome woman." You're being reckless with your money again Serra,"Ed deadpans, he wasn't exactly complaining, she had given him a good some money when he'd joined her for additional equipment, but it had gotten them in trouble when thieves thought they were loaded. The gnomish woman took the coins and nodded in appreciation." All well, very well. Come along this way. Oh, before I forget my manners anymore, my name is IFAS Copper. And welcome to the store again!" With another of her small chuckles she showed Serra, Edward, and Slumber to the back room. On shelves were many alchemical ingredients, and along the back wall, with some distance between them, were 2 alchemists labs fully set up. "Thank you, if anything comes up Slumber will let you know,"Serra says as the three get to work, Slumber singing along the way, Serra joining her own voice in every now and again. All three working on Healing Salves, one of the more useful and highly sought after items they could make, it required all three of them to make it reliably, though. Spoiler Hide Healing Salves have a market price of 25gp and a craft DC of 25. Each one requires 8gp, 3sp, and 3cp to craft. So I should be able to make quite a few here. Serra Craft (Alchemy): Take 10 for 22 +4 from Ed and Slumber Aiding for 26 and +2 for the Alchemy Lab for 28 total. Perform (Singing): Take 10 for 21 Edward Craft (Alchemy): Take 10 for 19 +2 from Alchemy Lab for 21 Total Slumber Craft (Alchemy): Take 10 for 15 +2 from Alchemy Lab for 17 Total Perform (Drone): Take 10 for 20 Going by the Daily Check, which uses SP in the variant, that results in a 25 x 28 = 2.8 Healing Salves made After a great many hours of working, the 3 completed their work and had some material left over. IFAS kept up her work, engaging with a few customers this day, mainly a few people in town with specific needs, but also one group of adventurers buying gear for an expedition. After some time she went to the back to speak to them." Serra, there is someone out here wishing to speak to you, says he has been looking for you." Slumber flies ahead to see who it is, with Serra and Ed coming out right behind her, with Slumber flitting about whoever it is. Salazar, the soldier leader from earlier, stands just inside the building, looking around at Slumber humorlessly. He nodded his head slightly to Serra." I should have figured I would find you in here, or somewhere like here. You said yesterday that you were going to be doing some work. Greetings to you all." "Ah, what can I do for you, Salazar?" Serra asks the elf, somewhat curious about the sudden interest he seemed to have with the group. Edward bows his head in greeting while Slumber chirps a hello. Salazar mods back to the other two before going on to speak with Serra." I have news from the governor of the town, after telling him of the bandit attack. As I may have mentioned before, such attacks are nearly unheard of. The governor is concerned as well, and asks if I would be willing to apprehend these criminals. Naturally, I came to you as well, seeing as you were the most capable of people in the caravan by a wide margin. He's offering 750 gold per person willing to go out and do this. More if said people can find out why the bandits attacked." Serra hums in thought, an immediate pay-off to the whole group would be nice, but it would mean they could lose a potentially lucrative client base in the bandits, decisions, decisions... she grinned behind her scarf, time to spin this in her direction, she indicates for Salazar to come into the building and the lab behind it,"I actually have a potential connection set up there. I'm meeting with them, I thought something like this might happen, so I got a connection under the pretense of a business deal with the bandits, faster and stronger horses, that sort of thing,"Serra says,"The meeting should happen before we leave for the city, if you'd like to stick around and wait for them, we could just have them lead us right to the base, or even catch the leader directly,"it was honestly true enough, this was a failsafe, the deal was the main goal, but this was her second option, and the one that painted her in a better light, so she'd use that to her advantage here." I've seen her do this before, she's quite a lot smarter than she looks, and that's saying something,"Edward says, with Serra bristling at the 'smarter than she looks' comment,"she's a great on the fly tactician when it comes to this sort of thing..."" Yea, but last time it was that gang of thieves that called themselves a guild,"Slumber says with a snicker,"Serra set up a meeting, had the guards wait in the room, they were caught in seconds." Spoiler Hide Stretching the truth and hiding something, but not outright lying, so not sure if a Bluff check is necessary or not, but I'll make one here in case it is needed. Serra's Bluff: Take 10 for 23 +4 from Aid Another for a 27 Total Edward's Aid Another: Take 10 for 18 Total Slumber's Aid Another: Take 10 for 20 Total Spoiler Hide Well there is no conceivable way, even on a 20, that he could beat that skill check, so... Salazar looked at them dubiously for a moment then smiled." Very devious of you. And rather altruistic. You were willing to set up a meeting with a potentially rather dangerous group without even the guarantee of any sort of reward beforehand. Rather rare to see nowadays." He folded his arms and leaned back into the nearby wall." Alright, so what is your plan for meeting with your contact among them?" "I honestly just make it up as I go along,"Serra says, causing even Edward to face fault,"what? I usually just think of something, and it almost always works,"she says defensively. It was surprising how innocent she could sound at times. Salazar rose an eyebrow at hearing this." So you have no plan to actually meet them? You were just going to try to find them at some point with this fake offer, and see how it went?" He was somewhat baffled. "Oh, the bandit I let go is going to come find me, not me find them,"Serra says simply,"we scared him enough that he won't try anything at the very least. Actually, tonight or tomorrow would be the most likely time he'd arrive." "Very well then. You speak to him wherever you are going to, but stay near town. Until you are certain their cooperation is guaranteed, I will wait nearby out of sight, then join you all in whatever happens." Salkamar spoke and offered a hand to shake on the agreement. Serra shakes,"How about Slumber stays with you, I'll send her a signal when he's around, that way you will be able to know and still be able to roam around a bit more. Looks less suspicious." Edward blinked,"and that came off the top of your head?"" Yeah, I taught Slumber one when we did the thieves' thing, it'll work here,"she replies, and Ed just covers his face in exasperation. Salazar just shrugged and said,"However it works properly. I'll follow you on this for now. Until tonight then, I shall wander the town and see what information I can gain on odd activities in the desert. Good evening to you all." With a bow he left the shop. By now it was already into the evening, or at least fairly close, after their day of working. IFAS spoke up,"Not too much longer until I close up the shop. Are all of you done for today?" "We're set for the night,"Serra replies,"We'll see you tomorrow, Ms. Copper,"she says in farewell as the group heads back to the inn. Back at the inn, things we are normal. Many of the tables were filled with merchants, workers, craftsman, and a number of more exotic people simply eating and drinking, sharing jokes and tells, playing betting games. This was the only sort of gathering place for such activities in this part of the town, close to the market area, so it was natural. Currently, a very tall humanoid of some sort ran the counter, looking very much like a normal human but thicker, taller, and with somewhat hardened facial features. What shall you do now? Serra wanders around the room a little, listening for anything interesting, then gets a seat and some food for herself and Edward, letting Slumber feed on her psychic energy. While waiting for the food, she asks the man behind the counter,"excuse me, do you know anyone in town that's good with animals or has any unusual talents?"she asks simply. The bartender gives her a confused stare and shrugs. "That's something of a vague question. Closest thing to an animal trainer is Uruk the stable owner. And that is only if you don't put too much stock in the idea. Unusual talents? What qualifies as 'unusual'? If you are looking for strange and taboo pleasures of the less, that is rather unusual but in that case you are very much in the wrong town. If you mean adventurers then no, none that I can currently make note of. A couple of weeks back sure but no one like that now. And the only people in town with mystical talents are IFAS the alchemist and Bordon the scribe." After saying that she gave them their food. "I was thinking more like an animal trainer that deals with bigger animals, boars, jackals, that sort of thing. Though that scribe does sound interesting. As for what counts as unusual, nothing of the nature you mentioned. I'm more interested in things like combat abilities, special psionic talents, acrobatic and athletic capabilities, anyone that's good at tracking, or the ability to identify and name off all the abilities of creatures found within the region, that sort of thing,"Serra replies nonchalantly. Now the bartender looks even more confused, and a bit annoyed. She kept her work on cleaning and spoke to another patron for a minute before returning to Serra. "You ask for very odd things. Are you an adventurer, looking to start an expedition? I don't have a'thing else to mention, this is a simple place, a small stop for the caravans. Those with more worldly skills are more likely to be found is they grand city, and perhaps out East to Elders. No, that I imagine you will get a nice reception there." "Well that's disappointing,"Serra says, leaning on her hand,"not even an athlete in this entire city. May have to wait until the city for hiring then,"she continues, seemingly disappointed, and she was, a decent guardsman, someone that's good at running around a town, an animal trainer, apparently this town had none of it, if the woman was to be believed,"You'll probably need to start building up a militia soon, if that's the case. Bandits attacked the caravan on the way in, and if you don't have any decent fighters, you'll start looking like a ripe fruit ready to be picked." With that, Serra pulled her scarf down to eat. She doesn't even hide the fact that her teeth look like they'd belong on a shark rather than a human. Edward was already finishing up his own food, how he could finish it in the span of three minutes was beyond Serra, especially with how tough the meat in the stew was. The woman sighed and leaned across the bar at them. "Ah, so that is the sort of thing you are asking about. Well we do have guards with some basic combat potential, the main defense this town has though is being hidden from most viewpoints by the large hill it's built into. Though there are scouts looking down on shifts, and the only defense that is needed usually is to see when attackers are coming this way and then rain arrows upon them. I figured you meant something a little more robust than just guardsmen." She took a swig of ale herself and thought for a bit, then added, "Now that I think on it, there is Trojan, a game hunter who travels between Organ's Peak and a few other towns. He doesn't keep anything he hunts, but he will at least now more of the desert itself and various creatures." Spoiler Hide Roll a Spot check please for all of them, as well as whatever else you plan to do or say next post. Serra perks up,"Hm, Trojan sounds interesting. I'd like to meet him if possible. Someone knowledgeable about the area would be an asset to my work." She nodded a bit, again having to deal with other patrons before returning to the discussion with Serra. "Well then, glad we could get somewhere in this. Trojan rents a longhouse to the far end of town, close to the entry gates. It is hard to miss." And then she went on to manage a couple at the bar.Meanwhile, there were 3 people at a table not far away, who were glancing over at Serra as she spoke. Serra, Ed, and Slumber could easily see their focused glances but could not casually make out their whispered words. Serra glances at the onlookers before smiling at them and waving, which would have looked innocent if not for the sharpened teeth making it look almost predatory, it looked like puppy dog eyes met a vampires hungry smile, she then went back to eating while keeping an eye on them to gauge their reaction to her. They may very well have been the bandits showing up early. They mostly held a look of shock and returned to their food and more casual conversation. However, one of them with deep green eyes and a funny-looking cap kept glancing at her, not even really hiding it or focusing on his companions. Serra hums slightly as she finishes her meal, so, she had a couple of things she could do about Green-y; she could leave him be, she could go over and talk to him, she could have Slumber talk to him and his companions, or she could call him out for staring and make a scene. Hm, decisions, decisions, what to do, what to do... she thinks, putting her scarf back on." Time to have a little fun, Ed, Slumber, I'm going to go hit on the kid over there,"Serra says cheerfully, getting a deadpan followed by a facepalm from her more serious cohort and a giggle from her carefree familiar. She gets up and goes over to the one with the cap." Hello, I couldn't help notice your staring. Am I that interesting?"she asks sweetly, without her teeth showing, at actually made her look less predatory and more innocent, though the red eyes were still creepy. The guy glanced up at her, but kept up the same focused stare. Of course the other two chuckled and sat back, more relaxed. The man with the cap spoke." Interesting is a good way to describe it. You look like someone I know." One of them has his curiosity peaked." She really does Vincent? That's not why we were looking." "If you've ever been to the northern kingdoms you might have met me, actually. I'm Serra Delta,"Serra replies, honestly not expecting that. She'd made a small name for herself with her research, but that was it, no one thought she'd actually get anywhere with it, and she still had only done small things that were hard to notice at best,"mind if I take a seat?" The guy motioned to the nearest chair and shrugged." The seat's right there. So, got a story to share? And no, I haven't been farther north than the city." He seemed aloof and calm, while the other two, a tanned dwarf and a middle-aged human, were more cordial and excitable. Spoiler: World building Hide I thought I had mentioned, if not I am sorry, but the only kingdoms to the north are other merchant princes and princesses, and the War-Torn industrial lands to the west. The other kingdom-related areas are to the south, actually. "Thank you,"Serra says, taking a seat,"it's rare that I remind people of others, with the eyes and teeth, most people tend to not forget me or mistake me for someone else. You sure you haven't been elsewhere in the last few years? I only just arrived recently." The man nodded, his face mostly lowered to the table." I am certain I know of you, but not I have not left in some time. Perhaps we could discuss it a bit in private?" The other two chuckled and the human spoke,"Already trying to get her to yourself Vincent? We were just going to talk about what she meant about looking for skilled people. We're professional adventurers, you see." He addressed this last part to Serra and the dwarf nodded strictly in agreement. The one with the cap, Vincent, looked serious and a bit sullen. "We can talk later, if you want,"Serra replies to Vincent. She then turns to the others and comments on them being adventurers,"that's interesting, what kind of adventurers? Mage, warrior, psychic, rogue, cleric, or something more... unique?" Vincent sort of gritted his teeth and nodded." Certainly we should then and speak." He sat back in his chair bit. The human took a big drink before addressing Serra." Well my name is Basil, I'm sorta like a scholar who dips into magical arts in curious ways. I love finding out new things in this wide world we have, and magic tends to help with that." He made a gesture over to the dwarf who was just eating as they spoke." And the quiet one here is Gordon, and he is our resident knight in grim armor, but with some interesting mental talents to boot." After this Gordon spoke,"The might of my mind and my will guides my blade to the hearts of my enemies." Kasil just nodded in agreement. "An interesting array of skills,"Serra says simply,"I have some innate magic and psionic abilities, but I don't yet have the ability to use them properly. I simply shape them as a catalyst for another... talent of mine,"she continues, she then turns to Vincent,"and what of you, Vincent?" He gave an offhand gesture towards her,"I'm the handyman of the group. The talented, the skilled, the manifold. I have various talents mostly pertaining to stealth and subterfuge, and help these guys get the treasure they are so eager to locate."" Or so he says at least; we haven't had opportunity yet to test what he can do,"Basil said after Vincent's little speech." We've only got him with us a few days ago, but if what he says is true then his talents will be vital to us." Vincent had a smirk so small and hidden that it was almost hard to tell what it was if his demeanor didn't do that for him"I assure you my talents are real, and not exaggerated in any way." Serra grins under her scarf,"sounds like an interesting skill set, I have a similar skill set, as a hunter and tracker, though my actual profession is a bit more complex,"she replies,"I'm also a decent fighter, both in melee and at range, though my primary weapon is a ranged one." Her grin widens to the point that just seeing her eyes lets them know she's grinning,"I actually heard recently that the mayor is offering a reward to people for routing out some bandits,"she says, hoping to catch their attention,"and I'm meeting with one of them tomorrow with an acquaintance of mine, would you be interested in joining us? We could use the help." Basil looked somewhat dubious, sighing into his mug." Ehh I don't know. I'm usually more into the plunder wealth in long-forgotten places and fighting off monsters and undead than working for the political people. Plus, I don't really see how I gain any great knowledge from such a thing." The dwarf Gordon, on the other hand, spoke through a bite of chicken." I like. Easy money, easy karma. Why not?" Kasil just turned his doubtful look to him. Vincent shrugged a bit and murmured,"I'd heard about the bandits in the region. There's a bounty out on them?" "They attacked the caravan I took here,"Serra replies,"and for lore, how about this,"Serra pulls another sketch from her pack, and slides it across. It was a sketch of a moth-like creature that stood like a cat,"A mooning stalker, I made one for a mage two years ago using his cat familiar and a mooning moth he was raising for the powder its wings shed..." Basil looked down at the picture, stunned for a while into silence then just softly spoke,"You made this thing?" Grokond showed no interest, just continuing to eat, but Vincent looked and nodded a bit." Very creative." "The ritual wasn't a complete success, it was supposed to have a cat head rather than a moth head, but I made a mistake in the main weave, one strand made the difference. But yes, it was one of the creations I made in the southern kingdoms... I know a ritual that uses psionic and magic as a catalyst to fuse creatures into one. It's based on a more complex ancient ritual that I'd gladly give to you if you're interested." Basil looked at the picture a bit longer then grinned at Serra."No, thank you, but I would like many more conversations on how you do such a thing. Perhaps with my magic I could learn to do so." Vincent just scoffed at him." For all your talk about being enlightened, you're just as much about self-interest as I am. Not that there is a problem with that." He then smirked over at Serra." So what is your plan for getting these baddies before anyone else does, other than talk to one contact?" "It'd be difficult without psionic as a stabilizer, magic is the power behind it, but psionic is the structure, without psionic, it's like blindly using a wand, you don't know the structure of the spell, you're just feeding raw energy to it and hoping for the best. Psionic provides a framework and guidance for the raw potency of the magic. It's why the old ritual was so difficult to perform for anyone but a focused transmute. And even then, it was difficult." Serra glances at Vincent, and grins,"Said contact is one of the bandits that thinks I'm giving his boss a deal to make him creatures like that one,"she points at the picture,"faster, stronger, more combat capable horses that can survive in the desert as well as a camel can, grafts from Ed over there, and the ability to commission my talents. I don't think bandits would forgo that kind of advantage, even from the 'demon woman' that scared off one of their commanders. These teeth and eyes make good for intimidation when done right,"she says with a wink. Basil looked somewhat disappointed and was about to speak up, but Vincent cut in." So that's it? You approach this guy and hope that it isn't an ambush, or that they won't take you and make you work for them free of charge, or anything like that? I do not deny that you can be intimidating when you try, but only some people comply or run when intimidated. Others lash out." He sighed and leaned back in his chair." Do you at least have an idea of people backing you up, or summoned creatures, or something like that? Traps of your own just in case?" Serra gives a savage grin behind her scarf,"that's why I'm asking you for help. I've been in worse situations without help before, and have always come out of it without much harm,"she stares intently at Vincent,"having backup isn't always an option, so I go without when I have to. You and your companions are the first I've considered for backup, because there is little to be had in this town, I doubt there's much I could get in the summoning field either, I'm not a mage, even if I possess some magical talent... as for traps, I have a few surprises I can use,"she says simply. Vincent nods and seems to calm somewhat, sitting back in his seat." I see then. And there is an offer of pay in this? In that case, I'd love to be able to help." He smirked confidently and finished his mug. Kasil simply sighed and smiled." Well I guess that settles that. No shaking his mind now. And Gordon has already given his vote. So I suppose we are in to help." Gorkond nodded silently in agreement. "That's good to hear. As I said, he's showing up tomorrow at the earliest. I'd say to just keep ready for a signal, which will probably be Slumber telling you to get ready to leave,"Serra says, still grinning,"it'll be easier for her to find you if you stick together for the afternoon, just a thought,"she says, getting up as she walks back to Slumber and Ed." We have some extra help with the bandits,"she says to them happily,"One of them is a scholar and mage, one's a knight with some psionic, and last is a rogue by the sound of it." Ed sighs,"How is it you always manage this sort of thing on the spur of the moment?"" It comes with travelling on your own for a few years, you learn to adapt quickly, that, or you die. I just learned to gather resources and allies when I could." Ed replies with a simple blank stare as his companion saunters to the stairs to get to her room. Vincent and Basil left soon after as well to their own rented rooms. Being here in town already would make things much easier for this meeting. Gordon however went over to Ed and nodded in greeting, then nodded at a nearby seat." Mind if I join you?"he asked gruffly. Ed indicates the chair,"go ahead,"he says tiredly,"she's going to be the death of me, been working with her for only a little over a month, and she stresses me out more than working with an owl bear during mating season..." Gordon nodded stoically and muttered." Know the feeling. Basil, too curious, no caution. Vincent, new, untrusted, arrogant. Very much stress." He sighed and ordered another mug, quickly getting to drinking." I join for valor, and coin. They are good for that. Why you?" "Serra is a decent sort,"Ed starts,"I find her own abilities interesting, and she finds mine the same, she offered me a job, and I took the chance. She's reckless and scatterbrained at times, but she's reliable and means well,"Ed continues,"I trust her, and that's all I really need to stick around."" It helps you like her too,"Slumber says, getting Ed to groan and facepalm."... Right... that,"he says with his head in his hands. Gordon smirked a bit and looked at Ed, finishing another mug." Don't choose that. It just is. Still, good reasons." He then turned his gaze onto Slumber." What do you do for them?" Slumber tilts her head,"I'm Serra's familiar, I sing, I scout, and I message." The mostly silent dwarf nodded a bit and muttered, An odd crew, us all together. Bandits won't expect it." He gave a light nod of the head to both of them." Plans til then? I'll eat and drink more, too early to sleep where I am from. Tomorrow wait until the right time Both of you?" It was already fairly late at night now, with only a few tables still full of people drinking and talking. Basil and Vincent were completely asleep by now, and there was no knowing exactly what Salazar was up to by now. "Slumber will be sticking with Salazar tomorrow, I on the other hand will be working in the alchemy labs someone gets me, or I finish what I'm working on,"Ed replies,"until then, I'm going to drink myself under the table,"he states with a sigh. He pokes Slumber,"you should head to bed, Salk's an elf so he'll be up well before us,"Ed says to the dragonfly, who squeaks and flits up the stares to join Serra. Gordon nodded in agreement with the plan and continued to drink most of the night away. Spoiler Hide Feel like any more RP here, or onto the next day? Spoiler Hide I'm good, we can skip to the next day. Spoiler Hide Dawn of the 3rd Day Infinity Days Remain On the next day it was at it was the day before, with people waking up early to start work and trade. Salazar was no different, already wandering the town even very early with his eyes open for signs of the bandits, slim though the chance of seeing anything was. As for the adventuring party they had met the other day, Basil was up and preparing his magic, Vincent was out in town handling his own business, and Gordon was still deeply asleep, and would be until much later. Such is what comes from tons of alcohol and generally staying up late. Serra wakes bright and early, she was going to be looking into this hunter she was told about yesterday, he could be interesting. She wakes up Slumber so she'd go with Ed to the lab for the day. Ed on the other hand, rolled out of bed with a hangover, but, he quickly mixes up a concoction of herbal tea and a small amount of the powder and herbs used in antitoxins and healing salves, with a bit of lemon and honey to cut the bitterness, and downs it in one go, he'd be breathing steam for the next few hours, but it got rid of the hangover. Spoiler Hide Gonna wait for RP then roll the stuff. The bartender from the night previous gestured toward Serra when she went down into the tavern area. "Hey, do you need any more information before you head out for the day?" She figured it fair to try to be helpful after the discussion last night. Spoiler Hide Well that's all I can think of for RP at the moment, unless your 3 are going to be interacting with anyone in particular. Make your rolls/other things. Serra simply replies,"just directions to that hunter you mentioned, I want to talk to him before noon." Ed and Slumber, on the other hand, go straight to the shop to get to work, Ed on acids and Slumber on tinder twigs. Spoiler Hide Both taking 10 Edward: 21 x 15 = 315sp = 31.5gp = 3 Acids Slumber: 22 x 20 = 440sp = 44gp = 44 Tinder twigs The bartender nodded a bit. "Very well. The hunter, Trojan, has the widest house at the end of town, near the gates where you entered from. But...he may not be there. If he's not, your best bet is to look around the nearby dunes, he may be exploring or tracking something. I wish you well with...well, whatever you have in mind." Hifas watched them for a few minutes while they worked, smiling at their progress, before having to go attend to another patron. Serra nods, thanking the bartender and heads out to look for the hunter. She hoped to be ready before noon, even if Slumber and Ed wouldn't be ready until the afternoon. Salazar would know where to find them, and when, so that would be fine for tonight. As long as the bandit showed up tonight, anyway. The hunter was away from home as the bartender had expected, but not too far away. He was just outside of town, a tall and lean half-orc covered in the signs of his victories and hunts, sorting out a large backpack near the town gates. At the moment, he had not yet noticed Serra, or else had noticed and paid no heed to her. Serra walks over to the hunter,"would you happen to be Trojan?"she asks the half-orc simply. The half-orc looked over his shoulder and nodded swiftly at her."Indeed, I am. Who's asking?" He slung his pack over his shoulder and turned to face Serra. He carried a sturdy longbow on his back, had a few daggers on belts around his clothing in various places, and had a rapier in a sheathed at his side. Furthermore, he looked at her without much expression, seeming almost casual at best, or else maybe just bored. "Serra Delta,"she replies, nodding to the half-orc,"I deal with unusual creatures, and I was told you were knowledgeable about the deserts, and the game available." He gave her another quick nod, then looked out at the path then back to her."Indeed, I do, more than anyone else in this town. If you want some information, follow along. I like keeping to a schedule." He started walking then from the town gates, assuming she was behind or beside him following." So what precise information do you need? I can be general, but more specific questions to answer would be easier." "As I mentioned, I deal with unusual creatures,"Serra says,"I've heard of a few creatures in the region, such as the sand hunter, but I'm mostly interested in magical beasts and fey creatures. However, I currently only have the resources to handle ones about the size of a dog, would you be able to help me find one like that?"

Night Times [D&D 3.5 Campaign]|rating:4.0

Predator and Prey - Crixus & Babygirl1990

Power is the currency of the world. We're told it's the money in our pockets, the things we own, the jobs we work. And if you don't have those things? Well, you just don't matter. We're all told that this is what matters in life. Be kind, but crush the competition. Cooperate, but always seek to gain the upper hand. Is this real power, though? Or is it a paradox of words and diversions to keep us sedated? Because even we attain those material things, it's never enough. Sure, you got a car, but is it as nice as the one next to yours? The expensive advertising tells us we deserve better, to buy that better car, that luxury watch, that bigger TV. They want us to believe in money and things because that's how they control us. Keep us desperate. Keep us weak. My name is Elijah Graham. Some even call me Father Elijah. I'm here to tell you what true power is. It's simple. Throughout human history, from the beginning of time to now, there has been one universal truth to who we are as people. Predators and prey. The wolves and the sheep. Those in government, those who sit in boardrooms, they like to think of themselves as the untouchables. That they hold all the power...as if it isn't slipping through their fingers, like grains of sand. It's why Governor Barry Green was on TV just the other day, talking about why I should be in jail. Questioning my past, my authority...and to Governor Green, I simply have this to say... A wolf does not concern himself with the opinions of sheep. So come find us, if you feel the wolf within you, gnawing to be free...we'll be waiting for you.-A Message from The Path---(“Do you stand by those remarks, Mister Graham?” Elijah smiled at the news anchor across from him. Leaning back against the soft leather couch, he looked entirely at ease despite the glare of the woman seated opposite him. Not that it was a challenge for him to relax. The pointed question and dangling bait for him was exactly what he’d been expecting when the barrage of interview requests came in, once his campus tour had been announced. The social media metrics alone had blown past his PR team’s initial estimates. This was helped along with the interviewer being Maria Winters, one of the most popular prime time hosts in America. But now he was faced with his true adversaries. The comfortable people in power who felt shaken by the words and teachings of his following. That wasn’t the angle of this interview though. It wasn’t about challenging power and becoming more than yourself...no, this had become about ethics. Morality.“I do. Completely.” Elijah answered simply, deep green eyes unwavering from the hard stare facing him from across the studio “Do you have a disagreement?”“I think It's pretty clear that some people would find themselves being regarded as prey and sheep fairly offensive, Mister Graham. Nor would others prefer the term ‘predator’ be assigned to them. Especially considering the current social issues concerning our country right now.”“Don’t you think that’s part of why The Path has become as popular as it is, Mrs Winters? People tired of the superficial, the poor selection of elected leaders that are meant to represent them, and the constant feeling of drowning in a world obsessed with what’s on the screen instead of what's real?” Elijah shot back. His attire was simple, white dress shirt, black suit. Clean-shaven. Dark hair combed neatly back. For his late thirties, he was looking in perfect health, possibly even better than shape than when he was in his twenties.“Then maybe you should run for office, make a change.”“I didn’t come from a rich family. And I’m looking to work within the constraints of a political party to make my changes.”“Perhaps because you simply don’t wish to play by the rules? Camera footage within your compounds looked rather alarming.”“The self-defense classes and weapons training? Or the rehab clinics we offer?”“Please. Let’s not be petty here. There was already an instance in France where...”“...yes, a registered member of the Path fired at a politician. Quite tragic but as I’ve explained, the man had been turned over to the authorities first due to his violent tendencies. Sadly, it was the French authorities who let him go and allowed him to commit this violent act.”“So by your own words then, would he be a predator? Lone wolf killer?”“If you’d like to use the term lone wolf killer, that would work. But the actions of the man were clearly not of someone of a predator mindset. There was only weakness, a lashing out mindlessly.”“Speaking of, your tenants seem to resonate especially with men, those looking to prey on women...”“...and yet again, our recruitment is nearly forty percent women. If you’ll remember Amy Chase from Sword of Thrones actually thanked The Path for helping her on her road to recovery during her acceptance speech at the Oscars.”“Not quite so dissimilar from cults like Scientology then?”“I don’t recall any stories of torture or spouses being kidnapped related to The Path? That seems like a rather disingenuous assertion, we’re not looking into eugenics or slave labor, Mrs Winters, my word and teachings are to better people and push this forward as a societal movement. Perhaps you’d like a VIP invite to my college talk tonight? There’s a dinner party after.”“Quite the expensive affair for a nonprofit.”“I’d say the same for Catholic Church. Even with all their own issues going on, they’re still tax-exempt, are they not? With lobbyists and political leanings?”“Are you claiming there’s no political affiliation to The Path?”“Of course there is. It’s a belief system, so it's inherently political. It’s simply outside of American politics, it’s why we’ve gone international.”“Well then, I suppose all we can do is hope you understand that with such power comes responsibility.”“Absolutely Mrs Winters. Spider-Man was my favorite superhero growing up. I understand perfectly. And I do hope you’ll join me at the campus tonight. No doubt everyone is as curious as you about what The Path is and what it stands for...so thank you for having me on. I hope we can do this again sometime.” It was about what Elijah had been expecting from a mainstream source. Still, he kept himself polite and respectful, ending it all with a smile and handshake. Things had rapidly expanded since he’d started this all in his twenties, out of a simple log cabin compound. From shivering in the cold mountain air, to flying across America doing speeches at colleges and universities......and this was just the start. (forked at her breakfast, well, her friends breakfast - it was a free meal and that was enough for Bond, okay?!! She was hungry. “Aliya, you seriously want to waste half the day to see some guy? You couldn’t have wanted a Coach, or maybe some Red Bottoms?” She asked as she ate. “MM, this is good,” she continued as she ate. She’d been best friends with Aliya for years, and for the first time, Bond forget her birthday. Time had just gotten away, and well she was demanding payment for her friendly betrayal. Luckily, Bonita had sticky fingers and a cute face. It helped that she looked like she came from more money than she actually did. Her best friend was the rich one, Bond was actually ‘living eco-friendly’ in her van that she called home. “Come on, seriously? Here let me find his interview, you’ll love it.” Ali said, her words quick and excited in a way that hadn’t touched Bonita just yet. Ali just kept droning on, repeating something she must’ve heard because, honestly, Ali was too spoiled to have been suffering from half of the societal issues that was America. Ali was white, perfectly blonde with green eyes. Stunning, really. And don’t mistake, she loved Aliya, but Aliya was going to school for fashion design, not exactly one of the worlds best minds in politics. Bonita shook her head as she ate, pretending to listen to her friends worked. However, the video had caught her attention. She’d stopped eating, fork in hand still stabbing at the food as she listened to the man talk, the way he handled that interview. He looked like a modest man, but she told herself that was just a play that his people probably wanted him to look. But even still, he was quite captivating. At one point that camera zoomed in close on the man and Bond finally understood her friends' fascination. He was a hot! More than just like ‘oh I’m on TV hot, but like… a man, hot. Aliya had been repeating a lot of what this Elijah guy was saying, clearly she’d memorized the interview, but even though it sounded stupid coming out of Aliya’s mouth, it rang better coming out of his lips. The clip ended and Bond went back to eating, in some thought as she ate the food that the hall made for their students. Bonita wasn’t a student, but she was around campus a lot because of Aliya. “Okay, here’s the deal, as an apology for forgetting your birthday, I will help you get into that seminar. But-“ Aliyah squeaked excitedly and Bond had to motion her hands for her friend to remain calm and keep focus. “But! You have to make me one of your designs if this thing is boring as hell.” She ended her bargain. The two laughed and enjoyed breakfast as they plotted their crashing. Later that day they were in the crowd, flyers of The Path littered about as people anxiety waited to be allowed in. They’d had it planned, they’d go in separately from each other, but Bonita would shove Aliya into a large group entering and remind her to stay low as the crowd pushed their way through. She’d done the same, but it was much harder for her to find a group to blend in with. It did happen though and right before the seminar was setting to start, they met up. There were people who were escorting people to their seats, a dirty trick Bond hadn’t counted on. “Holy Shit, who do they think this guy is? Tom Cruise?” Bond would joke as she realized how ill-prepared she really was. Aliya hadn’t mentioned how much organized this thing was. They’d eventually end up in the ladies room, waiting it out long enough for the dust to settle and the seminar to actually start. They were just stepping out of the bathroom when they were stopped by a large man, dressed in bouncer clothes, his hand out for their tickets, or proof that they were allowed in there. Bond held onto Ali’s hand, which was shaking because the spoiled brat had never been in any real trouble before. It was clear they didn’t belong and needed to be escorted out. When the large man reached for Ali, she squeaked in terror and Bond jumped between them. “You don’t touch her!” She snapped. “Just… show us the way out.” She tried to play cool, but she swallowed a lump in her throat that had been growing since she’d stepped forward. “...social media metrics continue to be our prime source of engagement. Especially with young people, and young women, the sizable increases of what could be described of as ‘personal video engagement’ on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok are what we see as overtaking long form content from the likes of YouTube. Even with Meta / Facebook on the decline, we really shouldn’t be opting out of...” If there had been a single aspect of his new life in the spotlight that Elijah could permanently remove, it would be the PR talk. Social media, news, talk shows, book deals, speech tours, he understood the importance of it all but the numbers and analytics truly reduced people to sets of data. Dehumanized them from individuals with stories and issues into means to be exploited. It was exactly what he was trying to call out with his message, exactly where things started in the log cabin decades ago. But his social media directors, James and Samantha, were hired precisely because they were experts in these areas. They weren’t true believers by any means and Elijah was fine with that. He didn’t expect everyone in his organization to be a fanatic, but there was an expectation that they understood who they were working for and why their services were needed. Elijah made sure to sit down with each of them one on one to ensure they understood that. His last few potential social media managers declined the offer after that talk. James and Samantha seemed to get more excited about the challenge. Now they were walking alongside Elijah as they made their way backstage. The campus seminar was set to be a pretty big event, crowds outside easily overtaking demand for the tickets. Police were added in with private security, screens and speakers being setup outside so that those who didn’t make it inside could still listen in. The Path wasn’t about excluding those who couldn’t afford to see them, but in the current financial systems of the world, such things were unfortunately necessary. The overwhelming demand were what started this walk and talk meeting, James and Samantha swiping through their tablets, pulling up data, the excitement clear at the resounding success at the start of this tour. Which was good, the kind of enthusiasm for one's work, but Elijah wondered if they saw the endgame for what his messaging would lead to, the changes in lifestyles, bettering of oneself, taking back power from those who stood above it all. Likely not. Such things probably translated back into data points for them.“You don’t touch her! Just...show us the way out.” A commotion down a side passage pulled at Elijah’s attention, turning his entourage down the hall to find a pair of young girls cornered by a security guard.“Caught a pair of intruders, have we?” Elijah announced as he stepped forward, waiving off both his social media directors and his security detail, approaching the pair with an amused smile on his features. They had to be college aged at most, a frightened looking blonde and dark haired Latina who seemed ready to fight her way out.“Trying to sneak in, hmm? Normally such behavior would be chastised, but I can’t exactly make speeches about fighting for what you want and then have two young women reprimanded for taking a bold initiative.” He said, eyeing the two of them slowly, deliberately, the kind of confident, radiant power that Elijah exuded on TV now present before the pair.“James. We should still have at least one set of VIP tickets left, correct? Let’s see these two are well taken care of and have a good time today.” A hand came down on each of their shoulders as Elijah stepped boldly towards them both, his deep green gaze looking at them both.“Come. Allow me to escort you personally to your seats. Ah, where are my manners. I’m Elijah Graham. And you two are...?” Bonny reached back for Ali’s hand as she stared down security. The only thing that had made all of them forget what was happening was Elijah’s voice. Ali’s grip tightened, and she let out a small squeak of excited surprise. Yep. That was him alright. Ali had the tendency to get stage freight and so Bond know she was going to have to be the one to step up. Not that she really wanted to, but what choice did she have? Though, now that she was seeing him in person, he did look much taller than on TV. She was trying to think of something smart to say, something that even though they were going to get kicked out would make sure the men never forgot them. But her thought was thrown off when h e offered them tickets, the excuse of his Word being the reason for forgiveness Bonita’s face shifted from defensive to honest surprise. Ali sucked in a breath, her grip extra tight, as if to say ‘don’t blow this for me now you bitch!’ This being the closest thing they could call celebrity. It was smart though, because Bond would’ve rejected the offer, wanting to just get out of the situation as quickly as possible, but with Ali as Cargo, she had other things to consider. A large hand touched both of them and Bonita could feel her friend going weak. God, can’t she play it cool just for one second? Then their eyes locked. His deep green eyes demanding her hazel eyes and minds full attention. Bonita’s lips parted like she was going to speak but, for the first time in her life, she was speechless. What was she supposed to say? She didn’t know him, and hand the jaw of a god that Bonita had a weakness for. It took her a second to recover, Ali having lightly nudged for her to speak him. Bonita clear her throat. “Sorry, uh. This is Aliyah,” she introduced first. Aliyah giggled and waved at Elijah like a fan girl. “She’s really wanted to see your show.” Bonita tried to play off, her friend embarrassing her further. “I’m Bond.” She simply stated, her tone changed, her name wasn’t important. “Thanks for the VIP tickets, we would’ve dressed up more had we thought we’d manage to sneak into that sort of fancy area.” She tried to joke, a grin peeking from the curse of her lips as the two moved to walk with him. “Aliyah. Bond.” Elijah repeated both their names slowly, sensually. His tone dark and warm, oozing chocolate molasses for the senses as he eyed both girls. Close friends, one holding more responsibility than the other. A sense of protection and oversight from the dark haired Bond. There was a stereotype about blondes getting into trouble and from the girlish energy Aliyah was displaying, Elijah wouldn’t be surprised if Bond was revealed to be her silent guardian. Which probably meant Aliyah was the one who insisted on them sneaking in...and yet, Bond had positioned her troublesome friend behind herself. Quite the show of character.“Clearly. Fate clearly seems to have decided that you’re both meant to see me today.” The man chuckled at the blonde, before his green gaze returned to Bond’s hazel eyes. “Interesting word choice though, Bond. Would you be implying you didn’t wish to see my show? No offense taken, of course, perhaps just as your friend here was meant to find her way here, so were you. Maybe I can help convince you I’m more than just a handsome face.” He winked at her, the smile on his face shifting closer to a more wolfish grin as Elijah stood up.“But I wouldn’t worry about you two needing to look much fancier. If you did, I might have to compete with the audience's attention, while having two beautiful young women in the front row.” It wasn’t difficult to hand either of them an honest compliment. Sweet-talking was a part of his skill set as a speaker, but neither Aliyah nor Bond were in need of him adding any extra flair to his words. Aliyah seemed like the type that would eat up anything he whispered in her ear, while Bond held herself with a more serious air to herself. His hands had shifted, gone from their shoulders and instead resting on each of their waists. An intimate gesture for two girls he just met.“Neither of you need to worry, though. The VIP dinner itself isn’t until a few hours after the show and there will be a chauffeur service from the college to the hotel. Food and drink will be free, so even if I don’t manage to convince your friend here...” Elijah nodded towards Bond “...you can at least enjoy a wonderful dinner at my expense. And who doesn’t enjoy a free meal? In fact...” Elijah removed his hand from Aliyah’s waist, while keeping his one hand on Bond’s, motioning with his now free hand for the tickets he offered the girls. Eyeing the tickets in his hand, he handed one to each of the girls, before continuing to walk. “...it appears that your tickets were meant for the Governor and his wife, who’d recently challenged me on TV. Which means the two of you will actually be at my table, along with a few lucky others.” Those forest green eyes shifted between the girls again, before settling back on Bond “Who knows? If your luck continues, maybe you’ll end up seated beside me.” It wasn’t much longer before they were at the doors leading towards the stage and seating, his hands returning to his sides as he nodded to the pair.“I quite enjoyed our casual talk through the back halls here, so much of my conversations these days are so...serious. Perhaps at the dinner tonight, we can continue our little chat. I hope to see you both there...and what it means to see you both dressed up more.” Again, the air of devilish confidence simmered around Elijah like an aura of power, a playful spark in his eyes as he looked from Aliyah to Bond, his gaze perhaps lingering on her hazel eyes for a few moments longer.“I do hope you both enjoy the seminar.” While Bonita was still skeptical of the man, she had to admit, he was quite charming. Aliyah was openly fawning over him, likely never to clean anything his hand or any part of his body ever touched on her clothes again. Bond tried hard not to be annoyed at that, didn’t she know how to play hard to get? This man clearly would be used to bimbos who were willing to fuck. But then again, perhaps that’s all the ambition Aliyah saw for herself. Bonita felt like she, both she’s, deserved more than minimum effort. Thoughts that were soon interrupted as Elijah seemed to notice the way Bond worded things. A slight blush formed on h is face as he called her out for having not been there for him. She didn’t even know his name until that morning, this man was clearly supposed to be important and there was some shame in not having kept up with politics and economics as of late… she liked to keep up with it in high school, but that was because there was a class that kept it interesting, now, everything was just doom and gloom. Bonita had already lived a life like that, and she was just wanting to bring in happiness in her life. That was her flaw, avoiding the ugly but covering it up with fun and laughter. And as he started to talk about the dinner, the girls both openly looked excited. Free fancy food? How could financially struggling Bonita turn down such an offer as that? Her mind was on the food, meanwhile, Alijah’s eyes had gone from awe struck to big puppy dog eyes that never stopped looking up at Elijah’s handsome face, soaking up every bit of honey that came out of his mouth. So it was no surprise that when he let go of her waist, she looked crushed. But, like a squirrel she was back to shaking her tail with the tickets in her face. Bonita found that she hadn’t moved from Elijah’s side, she took a moment to examine her situation and blushed to herself, how did a night like this come to be? Aliyah let out a gasp of joy when they heard that they were sitting at his table. Bonita herself was speechless, her head having snapped back to reality to examine her ticket. They were going to be at his table. Aliyah was the fancy one, the one who loved the limelight. Bonita, however, had always been stagehand, the little details that made things look just right for the audience. She was out of place. Bonita’s throat going dry at the thought of being in his presence for such a long time. She wasn’t sure how long she could mask her nerves for. Luckily, that didn’t last much longer as the girls were seated, and the man made his way towards the stage. Aliyah started talking excitedly to Bonita about the dinner, what she was going to wear, how she was going to have to move fast, blah blah blah. Bonita, found herself staring after the man, both intrigued and not looking forward being in such a light. But for Aliyah, she’d do it. For Aliyah. The seminar was actually very interesting, Bonita found herself actually agreeing with a lot of what Elijah was saying as he spoke to everyone. She couldn’t help but feel that there were a few times, when he looked in her direction; but she felt that he was directly speaking to her. It was enough to keep her thinking a few hours later as she and her friend readied themselves for the dinner. The seminar was actually very interesting, Bonita found herself actually agreeing with a lot of what Elijah was saying as he spoke to everyone. She couldn’t help but feel that there were a few times, when he looked in her direction; but she felt that he was directly speaking to her. It was enough to keep her thinking a few hours later as she and her friend readied themselves for the dinner. Things went much better than expected. While Elijah hadn't been expecting any sort of disaster when it came to talking in front of a crowd of college students, with the animosity of certain government officials, there was always the chance of someone deciding to make a scene. The sheep who felt threatened at a possible change in the status quo, whose lives might find themselves shaken by the changes in life Elijah preached. Or those who saw his movement, his crowds, as competition with their own movements for change. That was all fine, Elijah's concerns were more for his guests and those in the crowd. Just like his time with the newscaster this morning, he enjoyed the challenge from those who spoke out against him and his path. If everyone was in agreement, people like him simply wouldn't be needed. That would be the easiest way to dissolve his power, to show that he was unnecessary. But clearly that wasn't happening, and Elijah always preferred being known as a man of action over words. And it seemed the crowd enjoyed that too. Those Elijah decried, the politicians and CEOs, they made it so easy for him to speak to the masses. Centering his movement on self-improvement beyond slavery to the dollar, to increasing corporate profits, being your own man or woman as a person instead of as a number. Championing against the dragons of the world who simply horded more and more wealth, doing nothing with it but generating higher and higher profits while the world grew poorer. To bleed the world until it was dry, and those who remained would find currency a poor source of food. Paired with how people were handling The Path's rise to power, clearly he was saying something right. And with Bond sitting up in the front row, it was even easier to speak directly to someone who might have been on the fence about who he was and what he was about, to discuss goals for the future and the victories of today. Elijah kept the topics real and true, what it meant to start the Path in a simple log cabin and grow it into more of an international movement. What it felt like to be targeted by the traditional power figures, scared to help those on the bottom and instead benefit those on top."...of course, these words might be seen as easy to speak while I stand in front of you in a fancy suit, while I wine and dine, and enjoy a world tour. Perhaps to some, it might come off as hypocritical, to call for change while enjoying the fruits of luxury. And perhaps if the people who followed the Path lived in squalor, in poor conditions, were starved, beaten, tortured...you might have a point. But there is none of that. There is simply a community, one that connects us all across borders and continents, striving to create a better world for those who come next. Thank you." It was the first applause of the trip, people standing up to clap as Elijah bowed and waved, his attention back on the girl in the front row. Bond. Something about her...he'd make sure she was seated next to him. He'd be curious to hear her thoughts on his words and what it meant to her. Or at least, pretend as though that was why he wanted her seated next to him.(Alfonso's was a lakeside private establishment, positioned right beside the Continental hotel Elijah and his entourage were staying in. It was a calm, cool evening, perfect for a drink on the restaurant balcony that overlooked the crystal clear water. Guests were slowly beginning to filter in, the sounds of casual chatter reaching Elijah's ears as he stood looking out at the water. It was as close as he could get to the feeling of nature in the middle of the city, surrounded by concrete and metal, with only small patches of plants and grass to enjoy. Taking a sip of his Caesar, he turned away from the water and returned to his guests to meet and greet. The interior of the restaurant was quite decedent in its interior design, tall windows giving a perfect view of the darkening night and a taste of the story sky. Tables were set with wine, appetizers of all sorts offered to guests who'd already taken their seats. Elijah moved about from table to table, shaking hands in greetings, exchanging brief conversation before moving along. He wasn't much of a fan of the more closed off proceedings, but he was curious to see how the pair he'd met in the back halls of the campus would react to it all. Aliyah, Elijah already had an idea about. She was smitten, keen on his every word. Bond on the other hand...now that was someone he wouldn't mind talking with in private on the balcony. Hopefully he'd get a chance, depending on the plans the girls had. And to see how she decided to dress for the night's events. (was quite a presence, several times, Bonita would look around her, people seemed enthralled by him, hang onto his words. She could see the skeptics, they were the ones that were continuously scribbling on little pads of paper, no doubt already trying to think of ways to contradict his speak for readers and fans. Bonita felt like whatever reasoning they’d use, would feel far-reaching and slightly unrealistic. Her attentions were never off Elijah for too long, however, a few times being caught people watching rather than openly paying attention like Aliyah was at her seat. Bonita wondered if her friend really understood the things he was talking about. Sure, it’s easy to say that the poor stay poor and the rich get richer, but she’d always been comfortable and never really had hard life struggles than what a normal teenage might encounter in life. Her parents were still married, wealthy, she had a great education that she never worried about tuition for, she had personal trainers and tutors. The closest Aliyah ever got to being poor was being friends with Bonita. Thank goodness money wasn’t so important to her that it hadn’t effected her colored blindness to their relationship. The two had become close and Aliyah used those experiences, those small windows of personal influence was enough for Aliyah to really understand what Elijah was talking about. Bonita took a deep breath. Hopefully, Elijah wouldn’t catch on to how spoiled her friend was, how comfortable she lived… if she wanted a shot at him, Bonita didn’t think money would really be his love language. The audience clapped loudly, Bonita to last to stand at the table, a quickly look around of panic and she was up. Clearly she didn’t get the memo about standing up, but she followed suit and clapped as well. Everyone watched him start to head off of the stage and towards the table. The large halls sound shifted to people settling, talking amongst themselves as the food was being brought out on several carts. Aliyah excitedly watched Elijah, not looking away from him, not even to blink. It was almost as if she was trying to will him to go and sit next to her. But to both girl’s surprise, his seat ended up being next to Bonita. She smiled at him politely, looking to her friend in panic, this was not how it was supposed to go. “Quite the speech!” She’d say as everyone started to sit down at the table again. Aliyah was watching them from her end, clearly jealous of Bonita’s luck. “I think you gave people lots to write out” They always loved his speeches. Even here amongst the wealthy, those entwined in the very systems Elijah proposed to tear down and reshape, they clapped and cheered. Taking notes for hopeful inspiration or perhaps ammo, eager for contradictions. A tough sell considering the range at which Elijah appealed to people, how far and wide his message spread. The Path was simple in concept, easy to digest and resonate with, and despite the various opinion pieces, expert analysis, and frightening label of 'cult', the seats continued to be filled with those eager to listen. The applause was a little much, but it was accepted graciously. Inspiring such a reaction was always welcome, though it amused him to see Bonita surprised as she quickly moved to stand with everyone. Something to tease her about later. As the food was sent out, things were quick to return to a more casual affair, Elijah making his way over to his table and taking his seat next to the lovely girl in the yellow dress. Elijah himself hadn't changed, keeping his same suit on, though he had washed up and cleaned up a little before arriving at the restaurant." To both my critics and my fans, no doubt." Elijah smiled as the atmosphere calmed down, the gentle strings of a live band beginning to play. Pouring himself a glass of red wine, the bottle was offered around the table, while the starter salads and appetizers of the evening were offered up. "Have you figured out where you find yourself, Bonita?" The man inquired as he picked out a garden salad for himself, keen to get a healthy start before the desserts were offered up by the end. The first bite was perfect, the variety of fresh vegetables creating a perfect melody for his taste buds." You're a smart, young woman, yes? While you might not have heard of me until your friend..." Elijah looked past Bonita for a moment and offered Aliyah a smile "...dragged you along to meet me, you've now listened to me speak twice now." He took a sip of wine, swirling the dark red liquid about in his crystal glass "Some might argue that you'd need to do more research before coming to an informed opinion, but that would be like me saying I need to see you more in that yellow dress before deciding if it looks good on you or not." Elijah leaned forward just a little, his voice softer, words just for her." But I know after seeing you in it once that it looks perfect on you." Returning to his seated position, Elijah continued to finish up his salad, awaiting the words of the young woman at his side. It might have been a shame that he wasn't giving her friend as much attention, but there were many more women like her. Men and women alike that nodded at what he said without effort, the same sort of prey and sheep he rallied against. The only difference was that they followed him instead of someone else, or he was just the latest fixation because he was charismatic and handsome. Bonita didn't seem like that. And that interested Elijah in hearing her thoughts." You seemed rather surprised about my standing ovation. I admit, the brief look of surprise on your face was rather amusing, though I admit I find the standing applause to be a little much. I am happy to inspire people though, give them hope to become more than they are if they follow my words. From sheep into wolves, prey into predators...get a grasp on power for once in their lives." Bonita sat with Elijah, pulling her chair under her so that she could dig in. She wasn’t shy about what she got, a Cesar salad to start with a lemon wedge squeezed on top. It also didn’t stop her from getting a warm roll of bread as he started to ask her what she thought. Bonita took a second to think, chewing carefully as she thought about how best to answer him. “I think you make a lot of sense, but, your target audience don’t understand half of what you’re talking about.” Her fork stabbed at a few lays of lettuce before she took another bite, her face moving like she was going to say more after she was done. “You’re talking about a struggle that these people,-“ her fork motioning around the room meaning everyone. “Think only exists in Third World country’s, or… I don’t know Compton, or Detroit. That’s old new and their eyes have been opened to what’s actually going on around them. I don’t go to college, but I get I can explain survive longer any person in here should the world end tomorrow.” She said. “These people are too comfortable and can’t really hear a message that isn’t there.” She finished, her fork already stabbing at some more salad. Just then the waiter came around, pouring more wine into her glass which was almost finished. She was actually focused in on this conversation, her body slightly leaning towards Elijah as they spoke. “I think the mistake was making this a private speech. Not your mistake, but your peoples. They are trying to raise money for the masses, but the masses aren’t here. How can anyone help what they can’t see? They need to see how your words are real by the way that every day people are moved. They are moved, but, what raises the hairs on your arms more than a roar so loud you feel your stomach vibrating.” She explained. She looked at him, licking her lips of the dressing before laughing. “Listen to me…. What do I know?” She waved a hand dismissively. She was a nobody. Her mouth moved around as her tongue realized how far out of her depth she was. Her cheeks blushed a little as she looked around and cleaned her face with the clothe napkin in her lap. “I could use some air.” She said as she suddenly pushed her chair back. Reality of her position was settling in. What would he care about some street rat kid? She didn’t bother to wait for anyone to follow her, she just started walking to a door that lead to outside, a balcony. When she was out there, a few other people talking to each other, she took a deep breath. “What are you doing here Bonita?” She asked herself as she leaned against the cement railing. She was so out of place. Just when it felt like there was going to be a conversation happening of real substance, Bonita excused herself and took her leave to the balcony. Tempting as it was to just chase after her, Elijah allowed the younger woman some time to herself. There was wine and food to enjoy, and the kind of banal talking points the man had grown used to amongst the usual crowd. But Elijah had learned patience with people, to engage even when it was a question he'd heard again and again. Even though these were grown men and women he was speaking with, thinking of them as children helped ease his mind into talking with them much more easily. But eventually, Elijah excused himself from the table and go to follow in the footsteps of Bonita. It was just her and a few others on the balcony, Elijah moving in beside her to enjoy the view of the night sky and city. "Such a shame. You left just as things were getting interesting." Elijah stated as he took his place beside her, turning himself away from the view of the sky and city, putting the weight of his gaze on the woman beside him. "But here we are. The main course is yet to be served, so we have some time here, to ourselves, to enjoy until then." He shifted closer by a few steps, enough to border on her personal space, studying her with silent intensity "You asked quite the question back there. 'What do I know?' before dismissing yourself from the table and coming out here. I'd say that was the point to our talk, Bonita. For me to find out what you know and listen to someone new. Someone outside all this, outside the usual circle. You seemed quite into the conversation before you dismissed yourself from it." Elijah said, an eyebrow raised at her accusingly. "And then you left me alone to deal with the same sorts of compliments and questions I receive every other day. So I bring myself to you." He smiled at her, winking as he leaned in, a playful whisper." Or was your plan to bring me out here alone? Just you and me?" He teased her lightly, enjoying the intimate nearness the whisper brought to the pair, before slowly returning to his original position on the balcony. "So let me say this to you and make myself clear... I invited you here. You and your infatuated friend. That is all you need to understand about why you're here, so that I can listen to you." Elijah insisted to her, keeping his gaze on her the entire time he spoke." And, as you might have noticed, I do not invite just anyone to sit by my side. I make my picks carefully. You were my choice, Bonita." She had to admit, rich people always had the best views. The night’s air was nice, cleansing her mind of the fog she’d put herself in. Pulling her phone from her bra, she checked it, no messages. Her friend was likely in her spot by now, talking that man’s ear off about something he’d probably talked about again and again. That was okay. It gave her more time to think, to replay that conversation over and over again under she had a script in her head that actually made her feel like she sounded smart. Bigger words that she’d have to double-check were the right words. But in the end, she sighed and shook her head. She’d have to settle with having imaged that conversation, so she stuffed her phone back into her bra and continued to enjoy the view. When Elijah approached her after some time, Bond blinked in surprise. Had he come looking for her? No, surely he too just wanted some air and there were only so many places to go… like on the far end of the other side of the bad.cony… looking away from the… view… right… maybe she wasn’t so crazy to feel the butterflies she felt as he spoke. She didn’t say anything, her mind blank as she tried to find words. Then he stepped into her bubble and instead of backing up, like she normally might, she stayed put. Never mind that she was standing and leaning against a corner, she could still make a motion of space if she wanted. But she didn’t. She looked up into his eyes, her focusing so hard on him, his eyes, the way his mouth moved when he talked… damn she could understand why Aliyah was so smitten over him. Now she was finding herself blushing and trying not to smile as he spoke to her, teasing her even as he whispered, his breath close though to tickle her skin. Her eyes widened as he questioned her and she shook her head. “No, I’m sorry” she said in an awkward laugh. “Honestly, these things are… a bit much. I came here for the food.” She admitted. Though, she knows he’d figured that out already. But then her face shifted, a frown starting to appear. “The truth is, I don’t belong here. Those people in their think I’m someone because I borrowed my friends dress, I don’t even go to this school. Or any school for that matter. I thought that maybe I’d be able to laugh about this later, you know, make fun of you, but honestly I liked what you had to say.” She stated, the smile starting to reform as her body shifted, letting herself actually get into the conversation. “How can people stand these things? Do you just get drunk until it’s a party and that’s why you all do it?” Her head tilted, though she was asking a real question, she was finding herself leaning closer to him, even stepping towards him without thought. Her phone buzz, lighting her breast up a little before she looked embarrassed and pulled it out. “Sure, now she’s concerned.” She muttered before dismissing the text and then putting it right back where it was, looking him in the eyes. “She can wait.” “Well, I can promise the food is worth waiting for, and you’re more than welcome to take your leave once dessert is over...” Elijah spoke, a slight shake of his head before continuing, “...but I disagree strongly with the notion that you’re not meant to be here or that you don’t belong here. If that was the case, you simply wouldn’t be here, and yet here you stand in front of me. Who cares if you’re wearing a friend's dress, don’t go to a specific school. You said it yourself, you liked what I had to say...so I would encourage you to stay.” The smile returning to Bonita’s was a welcome sight. Hers felt like a smile that Elijah had earned through conversation and charm, not simply because of who he was. There was a power to both, through his charisma and leadership of the global effort he was leading, balanced out with the man he was when simply walking the streets. Here, in front of Bonita, it felt as though she simply saw him as a man. His craft and charm was a part of it, but the infatuation felt so much more natural than the radiant desperation from her friend back at the table.“It’s a combination. Free food, free drink, plenty of powerful people dressed to impress...it’s a dance of its own, a Game played out in front of everyone to make moves and assure yourself that you belong. For myself, I find it more of an amusing spectacle now than when I first started. There’s enough online evidence of people in power stumbling on their rise, being stupid, embarrassing, which is part of what these gatherings are designed to do...for myself, my associates, to keep an eye on those who come wanting favors and how they act once the drinks start flowing.” Elijah explained simply, his answer perhaps more long-winded and intricate than Bonita might have anticipated, but it was honest and true. His eyes dipped below her neckline as her breasts were briefly illuminated by her phone. He made no move to hide that he was enjoying the view, taking his time as his gaze slowly moved back up to her face, a coy innocence to his features that contradicted with the wicked smile on Elijah’s face “She certainly can wait. I’m feeling rather greedy for your time and attention, Bonita. Normally I would have moved along at this point, but I quite enjoy our talks. And how your dress looks.” He added with a wink, mirroring her own step forward, the two of them now daringly close together on the balcony.“And the smile on your face. Seems you might enjoy our talks too. Or perhaps it's a little more than that, hmm? We wouldn’t have to stand so close together if we were simply talking to each other. I know for me, I’m rather happy you and your friend decided to sneak into my show. My only disappoint was that the hallway wasn’t longer, so I could keep my hand on your waist for longer.” Elijah admitted openly, confident in his attraction to the younger woman standing beside him.“So tell me, Bonita, are you standing so close to me here for our enlightening conversations...” He brought the whisper back to her ear.“...or would you like my hand back on your waist when we walk back to the dinner table?” Bond was glad that it was evening, reason being was that her cheeks were so warm, that she was sure the blush would be noticed even in her caramel, smooth face. It was nice to have someone say she was wrong about herself and that she did belong. Not something she’d often hear in such company. And as he explained why he did all of this work, she’d nod, focused purely on him and his words. “I guess that all makes sense. People say that drunk you are the real you,” she surmised in agreement. Bonita was smart enough to notice him staring, not at her face. Not that she really cared, a lot of people looked at her boobs, what mattered was that she actually liked his gaze in her body. Even if it was only for a moment before he started to call her out on why she was still there in the first place. With the two of them so close, she couldn’t help but take in a breath, hoping to get a sniff of his cologne, surely he could smell her jasmine perfume in their intimate position. But she didn’t step away, she shied a little, but that was because she wasn’t used to his boldness. Of course people hit on her before, that wasn’t new either, but again; it was about who was doing it. She saw him as a man, an adult that should probably not even give her, or Aliyah, a second glance. But there he was, admitting that he wanted to keep touching her, to keep her close. Her breath slightly hitched as she felt his breath against her neck, a sensual smile forming on her lips without thought. His voice was mesmerizing in such proximity. His question caused her to bite the inside of her lips slightly, remembering how warm his arm and hand were around her, non-threatening, but still in control. She liked that more than she realized she would. “Well I’m not so sure about that.” She grinned mischievously. “I mean, someone might think I’m your daughter.” She was teasing of course, hoping to see if he could handle her sense of humor. “Unless you can think of a way to show people I’without.” "Exactly. And at invite only events such as this, people tend to feel bolder in making a fool of themselves. They believe themselves to be the exception to the rule, that because they spent money to be here I'll be kind and overlook poor behavior." Elijah continued, briefly turning his gaze back to the ongoing dinner inside the restaurant, "They don't realize that removing the undeserving from their positions of power is exactly what this movement is all about. Unable to see the forest for the trees. No doubt a few more fools will show themselves before the night is done...and I'll have more names to cross off my list..." His attention returned to Bonita, a sly smirk teasing at his lips. "...and perhaps a few names to replace them, hmm?" They were standing close enough now that the hint of her perfume beckoned to his senses. Not overwhelming, but enough that it enchanted the moment being shared between the pair. Elijah himself had made sure to apply some cologne before the party, a sandalwood fragrance that reminded him of home. Their proximity didn't seem to be a deterrence either, the smile on her lips as Elijah whispered clearly bringing some enjoyment to Bonita. A display of intimate enjoyment that hadn't yet been present with their more serious topics of conversation through the day and evening." Well, if you're being confused for your father...it just gives you another reason to call me Daddy." Elijah continued to whisper, the sly smirk turning more wolfish as he spoke to the younger woman. His hand was on her waist at that comment, enjoying the texture of her dress beneath his fingertips, the scent of jasmine tingling at his closeness to Bonita. "Speaking so openly like that is rather dangerous around a man like me, Bonita. With my active imagination, I can think of quite a few ways to show people you're with me...so why don't we start with something simple first, hmm? And see how you like it?" His other hand moved to her chin, guiding her attention gently, sensually, tilting her upwards just enough to meet his lips as Elijah leaned in to capture her mouth. For a first kiss, it was deep and wanting. A taste of that simmering tension that had been building between them. Something about her clicked with Elijah, different from so many other women that offered themselves to him. Perhaps because she didn't offer herself to him, that they talked about real things, even in the short time they knew each other...and now here he was, kissing her on the balcony. He pulled away, just barely, enough for their breath to mingle in the air between them as Elijah continued to hold her close, a thumb caressing along her lips." I could stay out here all night with you, Bonita. But perhaps we should make a return for dinner..." The wolfish grin back, a dangerous gleam in those bright eyes of his, "...and decide on a proper desert for later." Bonita was surprised with herself. She wasn’t this girl. She didn’t go home with men she’d met on that same day. Normally, they’d get tired of waiting for her to give it up and end up ‘breaking up with her.’ By the time they’d reached that point, she’d already gotten bored with them and either moved on or just lived her life. But something about Elijah made it easy to be around him. He was interesting, smart, handsome, seemingly what she’d call the ‘whole package.’ Maybe it was because he was older and actually had lived life. Something most men her age just hadn’t done. It wasn’t their fault. Elijah knew how to build excitement, a wonderful tension that made her forget she was on a balcony as she stared up at him. He was so close to her, and she was so entranced. So when he finally kissed her, she found herself sighing sensually into his mouth. The kiss was deep, the kind that made a girl never want to stop, even when she was at her last breath. The kiss wasn’t long enough for her, Elijah pulled back, and her lips chased for his. It was the first time she’d ever actually shown real interest so it shocked even her. The breath she let out quivered and her eyes opened half way.“Just a couple more seconds…” she said dreamily and pulled his FAE back to hers. This kiss was much more rushed this his, less delicate, but it was super clear she wanted the kiss. Her body pressed against him, needing to feel herself in comparison to his. Her heart raced and moaned a little. When she left him pull back she was laughing, breathlessly so only he could hear it. Her body was quiver and her fingers lightly clung onto his shoulders to remain close to him. She looked at his lips and giggled, letting her thumb move to rub his lips. “Sorry….” She said as she wiped some of her lipstick off. “There” she smiled and then pulled back so that she could pull her phone out and view herself so that she could clean up her own lips, which pretty much just ended up her taking off her lipstick entirely. People would know she was making out with someone. Oh, well. As she walked in with him, some people noticed, but she just focused on getting to her seat. She didn’t even look at her friend as he escorted her back to her seat. Aliyah looked both jealous and mortified. How could Bonita take the toy that she’d picked out for herself! What’s worse is he looked like he was into her. It wasn’t fair! Aliyah waved a waitress down and grabbed two drinks, taking the first one down like a champ as she glared at her so-called-best friend, who had been seated by Elijah and saw the way her hand touched his chest before she sat down. Bonita shifted her chair a little closer towards him, and Aliyah took another drink. This just wasn’t fair! It was this spark with Bonita that inspired an understanding in everything Elijah spoke about being brought into the social space. She was brought in without knowledge of his words, what his cause stood for, and yet standing before him, she demonstrated her own power, her own wants and took initiative in displaying those traits to him. So unlike her friend waiting at the table, Bonita had her own wolf inside her. She simply needed the proper means of displaying that part of herself to someone who would understand. This shared moment on the balcony was what she wanted. The initial kiss was everything he hoped it would be, that kind of simmering sensuality that would leave them wanting more. Because if it was too much, they wouldn't be returning to their table. They'd simply remain out here, continuing to enjoy each other's company. Though Bonita made it difficult to be responsible about his choices as he felt their lips connect, Bonita's eager reactions making her intentions clear. Elijah had his own temptations to battle with, especially as the younger woman insisted on just a few more seconds. A teasing smile on his lips was the only answer needed as Bonita leaned back in, Elijah happy to accept the heated intensity of the rushed kiss. Her soft curves molded against his hard muscle, a growl mixing with her moan as those seconds threatened to turn into minutes. Perhaps even longer...but self-control eventually took hold, Bonita leaning back with a breathless laugh on her lips. Elijah eyed her with a smoldering fire in his gaze, smirking as she apologized, "Don't you dare apologize for that." He whispered to her. "Otherwise, I'll be tempted to keep you here a little longer, really make certain you have something to apologize for..." Elijah trailed off at that, a coy wink to her hinting at the unspoken possibilities. The return to their seats was as expected. A few stares, a few whispers, but it was Bonita's friend that seemed to be taking it the hardest. Poor sheep. Bonita had demonstrated attraction and interest beyond fluttering eyelashes and clinging desperation. The pair of drinks she swallowed down wasn't doing her any favors. The grace of Bonita's hand on his chest was surprisingly comforting as she moved in closer, his own arm moving across her shoulders, fingers caressing up and down her neck. There was no hesitation in the movements, no secret shame. It was if they'd walked in like this from the start, the empty place at his side awaiting a woman like Bonita to take that place." The main course should be arriving shortly." Elijah explained to the table, his gaze lingering on Bonita, the smile on his lips held with that unshakable confidence and control. "There will be several options for desert, if either of you have room after. For me, I don't believe you can ever go wrong with a combination of chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream." His attention was back on the young woman seated close to him, his gaze on hers. "Sweet and enticing." Whether he was talking about desert or Bonita, Elijah left unsaid. True to his word, the waiters and waitresses were soon out and about with the dinner for that evening, the delightful smells of the expensive foods being delivered table by table. The conversation in the room returned to normal, the momentary distraction of Elijah and Bonita swept away to other topics. Perhaps not to Aliyah, but she'd had her chance." This puts me in quite the difficult position, though... I rather enjoy having my arm around you, Bonita. Maybe I shouldn't have encouraged us to return from the balcony." He spoke softly to her, before slowly removing his arm from around her shoulders as the food was presented to their table. A spinach salad with lobster tail and steak, served with a healthy side of garlic potatoes. The portion sizes were certainly allot and Elijah hoped his guests would enjoy, rising his wine glass to the table." Bon appétit, ladies. Let us enjoy this beautiful evening." As the dinner was served, Bonita looked over at Aliyah, who was now looking down at her plate and poking at it in a stiff, unhappy fashion. Bonita felt bad. It was Aliyah who wanted to meet Elijah, to go home with him for a night. But that wasn’t at all what happened, and Bonita didn’t feel like it was her fault. Bonita had just been herself, she didn’t pursue him, it just… happened! Bonita thanked her server for her plate and refill of her glass before repositioning herself to make sure she could give Elijah her true focus. Aliyah could be mad, she’d move on and find someone else to fawn over, last week it was Nick Jonas. The two continued to talk, and against Bond lost herself in the conversation, she told him about her neighborhood, to explain her perspective on life, which then turned into her childhood, how her mother had been a single woman, her biological father having left before Bond’s mother even knew she was pregnant. They struggled, but it seemed to work for a while, they had each other and the rest didn’t matter. Then, when Bond had just reach puberty, her mother got sick; really sick. Bonita took care of her mother, her mother worked as long as she could before the cancer took over. By the time Bonita was about to graduate; she’d died. That all happened before the age of 18, where she’d spend one year in the foster system. Thankfully, she didn’t do that anymore; but still, she’d not really confided about her life like that before. But of course, she realized she went down a socially awkward road and quickly recovered with some stupid joke about her killing the vibe. By this time, she was about five glasses in, her words finally starting to slur with that last glass she took from embarrassment. “So, Big Shot.” She said, her accent coming out now. “I hope this suit and tie aren’t just for show and that you’re not actually my neighbor. I might think you’re a liar.” Bonita leaned towards him a little, liquid courage finally sinking in. “Because if I find out, you’ve been hiding in the hood, I’ll die.” After so many dinners with various rich, uninteresting people, it was a breath of fresh air to have Bonita at Elijah’s side. Even as the conversation veered into more serious, personal topics, Elijah remained invested, his own seat turned slightly to give Bonita his attention as she spoke, and he listened. It felt like she didn’t get the chance to tell this story to many people, that she might keep it hidden inside her. Which was a shame, since it had been a story that Elijah had heard before. People hiding themselves from the world in a world that continued to march onward, with or without them. He would have been fine to stay on the subject, but it seemed Bonita was ready to move on. That or the amount of drinks she’d had was starting to take effect on her. There was a small smile on his lips as she referred to him as Big Shot, eyeing her as he finished up the last of his food, thanking the servers as the empty plates were retried and desert was offered.“I actually didn’t have neighbors for most of my life, Bonita. Growing up on a farm, building a cabin in the mountains, social skills were something I had to quickly learn when I decided to get the Path started.” Elijah replied with a chuckle. “So, no need for you to go die, unless your neighborhood happened to be a cave in the mountains.” He teased back playfully, enjoying a sip of whiskey from a crystal glass. The dark amber fluid swirled about casually, his gaze looking about the room for a moment.“My power and wealth now is certainly the real deal, but I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. I had to work hard, put my own mantra to the test, and build myself into the man you’re seeing now. Otherwise, I’d be just another grifter, another fake cult leader making wild claims about the state of the world. Instead, this all started with a shack in the woods...and now here I am, flirting with the prettiest woman in the room.” Elijah winked at her, reaching out and caressing a finger along her chin, as if beckoning Bonita to lean in closer. His eyes enjoyed the sight of her, how her dress clung to her body, the tempting eyeful of cleavage, the deep indulgence of their kissing on the balcony.“Mister Big Shot though...that’s a new one. You know, as a Big Shot, I should probably be walking around and talking with the other big shots here, but I feel...annoyed that I simply can’t have you to myself for an evening. So I’d like to change that.” Elijah said simply, reaching into his inner suit pocket, unlocking his phone and passing it over to Bonita.“Give me your details, so I can ask you out again. Tomorrow evening, preferably. I’m feeling greedy for your time and attention, Bonita. And as I’ve said myself...always pursue what you want.” At one point, while Elijah was looking at his guests, Bond took a moment to look over at her friend. Who was no longer at the table it appeared. Bonita wondered if Aliyah was soothing her sorrows with another man who might’ve caught her eye. At least, she hoped that’s what was happening, getting laid might not be bad for Aliyah, she needed it, that much was clear. After a quick breath, Bond would turn back to Elijah who was telling her that he’d rather be with her, than mingling. Bonita blushed, finding herself feeling the same. That was until he suggested seeing her again the following down. The corner of her lips dropped ever so slightly as she looked away from him and into her lap as she shifted uncomfortable and put her napkin on the table. “I’m sorry, Elijah, but I can’t tomorrow. I have work.” She’d admit. Now was as good of a time as any to tell him the truth. “If you really want to see me tomorrow, you’ll have to find me. Ii iii dance.” She’d finally say. Either he’d take this moment to change his mind, or he’d show up. Which, honestly, she didn’t see as the likely option. Men like him don’t really show their faces in her area of work, not unless they are doing private events where no paparazzi will see them. Bonita returned his phone to him, again to give him an out, should he wish to run. “I work at a club about twenty minutes from here…” She’d instruct him, but that was all she’d give him before she’d end up excusing herself for the evening and catching an Uber home, as it turned out that Aliyah had in fact, ditched Bonita. Heelz was not the fanciest strip club in turn, but it last wasn’t the grossest. Bonita had started the evening off in a short black dress, in the dark, no one would see that it was a faded black, that in some areas there were frays of a fabric or how her black heels had black nail polish on the areas that had been scratched off, or that her jewelry was fake. Clients never really cared about that part, just what was underneath it all. She wasn’t the main event, and was walking the floor looking for dances. She’d end up doing a few, a couple twenties got thrown her way, but it was a short dance, where they just wanted to get started for the night and move one from one girl to the next; she’d just been the first one of the night. Boni was walking past her boss when he stepped in front of her and started hounding her for dues that she owed. The tips she’d earned had been taken just like that. Tony smiled as he folded up her money in his pocket and slapped her ass hard to ‘encourage’ her back out on the floor. So far, it was a slow night, and she’d dolled herself up a little extra just to realize, no one was showing up for her. She was starting to think that it was just supposed to be a one time thing, and that he was probably moving onto someone else, someone who could stand next to him without a history like hers. It was fun while it lasted… There was an apprehension and uncertainty in Bonita's revelation about her work. A sense that she was waiting for Elijah to dismiss her because of her style of work. Of course, it was easy for Elijah to insist that he'd visit her and show up, but talk was always cheap. Thankfully for the both of them, Elijah was a man of action, and it wasn't difficult to figure out where Bonita worked. She hadn't given him much to go on before leaving for the night, but it didn't take much effort to narrow it down from her wording. Dancing, twenty minutes away... Heelz. Elijah couldn't show up as he was dressed during his speech, the expensive suits likely going to stand out amongst the Heel clientele, so he leaned into a more casual appearance for his showing at the club. He wondered if Bonita would tell it was him at first sight or if he'd spy and approach her first. The expensive clothes were traded in for a more casual wear, black running shoes and dark jeans. A plain white shirt, that might have been a size too small to tease the body beneath the fabric, with a nicely fitted leather jacket to finish the look. His hair was given a more messy look to it, not quite as neat and combed as the previous evening, and he didn't bother shaving to give off more of a rough look to himself. It wasn't quite the complete undercover look his PR people might want from him, but Elijah wanted to see Bonita again. Wanted to make it clear to her that her profession didn't matter to him. To others, it might, but that was the entire point of his so-called cult. And so he'd prove that very point to the lovely woman he'd happened to meet at his speech, kissed before dinner...and now, sought out at her work. He took an Uber over, looking to blend in as best as a man like himself could, making his way inside and looking about the place. The lighting was dim, except for the focus of who was on stage and the main event. The bar seemed like the best place to take a seat, order a drink and figure out where she might be...his narrowed eyes slowly becoming accustomed to the lighting. There were a few tables scattered about around the stage, girls lingering about, talking to some of the clients. Sipping on some watered down alcohol, Elijah briefly caught sight of a familiar face on the left side of the club, removing himself from the bar and leaving a few bills as a tip. She was wearing a black dress this time, his path directly to her, resisting the urge to just scoop her up. Elijah wasn't certain she knew it was him as he approached, stepping in front of her and offering a grin to her." Hey." A simple greeting, his eyes drifting down her dress just as he'd done at the party the previous night, before finding her face, clearly doing his best to hold back from touching, kissing, anything to her." How much for the rest of your shift to be spent with me? VIP or whatever it takes." Elijah wasn't quite familiar with whatever system Heel might use, but he assumed it followed the same sort of rules most of these places had...that money got you whatever you wanted. And Elijah wanted Bonita. Bonita heard his voice before she’d even see his face. It was a single word, but it was enough to make her look up into the man’s eyes and as soon as she did, she smiled. “You found me.” She said, slight surprise in her voice as she too took a moment to admire his look. She wasn’t as shy, she didn’t have to be. Here she was allowed to touch first. Her hand moved to let her hand touch his chest, sliding it up his peck to his shoulder so she could step closer to him. To Tony, he was just another client she was trying to lock down. Bonita knew Elijah would know better. So, as she batted her fake lashes at him, she whispered into his ear. “The slums look good on you, I like this much better than that penguin suit.” She said. A bite to her lower lip lower, she was being asked for prices. She might’ve frowned if it weren’t for the fact that something told her he wasn’t just there for the dance. Sure, he’d put in the effort to find her, but the fact that he too was willing to play this game so that her boss didn’t catch on was too fun. She looked over at Tony, who was eyeing her. Several slow nights, he’d take her to the VIP room to watch her dance, no tips, a waste of her time. But tonight was not his, tonight, Tony was going to have to watch Elijah steal one of his favorite dancers. Bonita looked back at Elijah and took his hand, her hips moving a little more than they had the night before and lead him away from the rest of the club. Bonita lead him toward the stairs and then stopped to talk to a bouncer who would demand a card from Elijah, the room itself priced at $50 for 15 minutes, and that didn’t include what he was supposed to give her. Not that she was going to actually take his money, but the. Club sure would. Bonita and Elijah were soon in a private room, the music to the club slightly muted. “Sit here,” she started, leading him to the single chair that looked like it was designed for the king of pimps. There was a small circular base that Bonita stood stop of, a pole poking through the middle of it before connecting to the ceiling. Bonita playfully did a simple round with the pole before looking at him, lowering down with the music as she flirted with him. “I was worried you’d gotten bored with me.” She said. It was clear she was flirting, but there was a slight hint of truth behind it. "Come on, surely you didn't doubt me?" Elijah teased lightly as Bonita turned to him. Her newfound boldness was a pleasant surprise as she reached out to slide a hand along his chest, while taking a step closer to him. At the formal party the previous night, he'd wondered if she'd been holding back due to the nature of the setting. Elijah had certainly felt more than a spark in their connection and the intensity of the kiss, the want for more, had suggested that he was onto something. Her words had the man chuckling, a smirk taking over the smile on his features, a knowing look in his eyes as he simply started at her for a moment. With her hand taking his, Elijah followed her lead, finding himself before a bouncer in need of his money. "All night." He said simply, a look in his eyes seeking whether he'd be challenged on his greed for Bonita's time. It didn't seem to matter to the bouncer, whose only concern was whether Elijah could afford such greed. The green light on the machine indicated he could, and so he and Bonita continued onward. He didn't want to be disturbed with her. Perhaps that was a little excessive on Elijah's part, but it had been so long since someone like Bonita had captured his attention like this. Being greedy simply felt like the most natural response. Doing as he was told once they were in the private room, Elijah took the seat as he was directed. He leaned back into it, his eyes glued to the woman on stage. "No way I'd let you slip away after that kiss." Elijah replied to her, a growled edge to his words. Moving slightly in his chair, Elijah slipped off his leather jacket and tossed it to the side, leaving him in just the jeans and t-shirt, clearly enjoying how the fabric of the shirt pulled against his body, tight against his muscles. He kept his hands on the arms of the chair for now, but it was clear from the way he was eyeing Bonita, he had other things in mind." So what are the rules for touching here?" Again the growl caught his voice, eyeing her from his seat, clearly enjoying the sight while hungry for more. Hungry former. All night. That was greedy. The standard time with a client was a mere ten minutes, then if you haven’t been claimed by the client you move on to the next one and the next after that. It was more fair to the dancers, it made it so that the best client wasn’t the only one making money, that would actually lose business for the club too. The bouncer should’ve told him no, should’ve told him he was limited to 2 hours. But he didn’t, instead, he’d nod and take the man’s card, an understanding and an arrangement seemed to have been completed. Perhaps he’d get a very nice tip. Either way, if this man wanted Bonita, he sure seemed prepared to pay. Bonita smiled when Elijah answered her back, her fingers moving to where their lips had touched the night before. She enjoyed her own two-second strip show as he pulled his jacket off, and she got to admire his body better. He was much more cut than she’d thought him to be. She had the thought to dance on him first, but - that would be lazy business. So instead, she’d sway her hips and start to dance. She wasn’t going to be in the Olympics for pole dancing, but she knew how to use the pole, how to slide up and down it, how to spin, how to use it to accentuate Elijah favorite views before she’d lower herself again, her fingers hooking her little dress above her hips and breasts, letting it fall somewhere on the floor. Bonita would dance in her platform shoes and lingerie before Elijah, teasing him with her body that he so clearly needed to touch. She’d left his question unanswered, her own little test of his patience. She liked his eyes on her as she moved, watched her hands sliding up and down her breasts, gliding over her ass cheeks as she’d bend in front of him. Furthermore, she grinned at Elijah at one point, her back on the floor, the pole between her legs to grind it as she lay there. Gently she rolled over onto her stomach and crawled his way. Bonita had been in her tights, heels, and lingerie, not having taken off anything but her dress. Her hands were the first thing to touch him, grabbing at his ankles before moving closer and closer until she was close enough to crawl up him. Her hands trapped his on the arms of his chair, letting him know that he wasn’t allowed to touch just quite yet. Furthermore, her body would glide just over his as their face would get near each other, her perfume a stronger than the night before - because that was the business - and her hair gently whipped in his face. Finally sit on his lap and straddle him, her hands freeing his as they’d find his shoulders. “This is VIP baby, no camera no rules.” She started, as if it were something that should be obvious. She giggled as her hips circled on his lap to the music. “Are you bored?” She asked. This was the woman Elijah had caught a glimpse of when they’d talked, when they’d kissed. Bonita was exactly what his instincts had told him she was, the look on her face, in her eyes bringing him back to the moment he’d offered the two young women tickets to his show, to the dinner. In reality, he’d only wanted one, the one who seemed intent on shying away from such attention. Now it didn’t matter, the room was just for them and there was no need to hide. Her movements were well practiced, with Elijah appreciating every moment. There was no shame in her profession from him, he was a man here to admire her craft. Bonita seemed to understand his unspoken eyes upon her, giving him those perfect views of her body, before the dress was peeled away, teased away until it was gone, leaving him with the seductive sight before his eyes. Bonita clearly knew what she was doing and the fact that she hadn’t answered his question about touch as she approached had him smirking. Of course. Quite the temptress he had in front of him. Her hands at his ankles were a brief surprise. Elijah hadn’t been certain if Bonita would be the one to make the first move, slowly maneuvering himself across his body. There was the silent, unspoken question about whether he could break free, his toned form and hard muscles suggesting he probably could, but that wasn’t the point. It was a message and Elijah was happy to sit back and just enjoy the moment. Her perfume, her scent, blessed him as Bonita leaned in, clearly enjoying the tease as she settled into his lap. Her hands on his shoulders seemed to indicate his hands were now free, moving as they found her waist and slowly slid up and down her back, admiring the touch of her beneath his fingertips as he chuckled at her question.“Bored? You’ve been the most exciting thing about this city...and now I have you in my lap.” Elijah stated, shifting just slightly in his seat so he could lean upwards, brushing his lips against hers, breathing her in, teeth capturing her lower lip for the briefest moment.“You have no idea how hard it is for me to stay calm right now. To be good and not ruin that lovely lingerie you have on as I rip it off you...” He growled those words to her, strong hands sliding back down her body.“...now lean back a little, so I can get this shirt off. I want your lips and hands all over me.” The white fabric joined with his jacket as Elijah leaned back into the seat, giving Bonita the chance to admire his body. Scars and muscle dotted his skin, biceps like steel cords wrapped about his arms. He clearly worked hard to keep himself fit, the hardened pectoral muscles and chiseled abs apparent even in the dim lighting of the VIP room. But before anything more could happen, Elijah couldn’t hold off any longer. A demanding, hard kiss ensnared his lips to hers, a kiss deep with longing, lust, almost more of a bite against her as the older man growled against her lips, wanting and tasting her, swiping his tongue against hers, before slowly giving them both a chance to breathe again.“Aren’t you glad I booked us for the night?” Elijah’s fingertips were warm, tickling along her back as he enjoyed Bonita’s closeness. She’d sensually slither in his grip as he responded. She liked the way her body was able to dance along him, to glide just over him and back down so that he could keep touching her. Really, the law was no touching. Which is why the club’s VIP room had no cameras. Anything could happen in these rooms, a meeting, a beating, a party, even fucking. Anything happened in this room and Bonita found herself actually liking it for the first time. Before it was business, this was fun. This was pleasure. She could feel his lust in his grip and the way his fingers dug into her soft skin. When his shirt was off, she didn’t hide the smile on her face. A man’s body was a rare find and there was no way she was going to pass up the chance to touch a god. Her fingers lightly touched from his abs to his waistline, her body grinding against him as she danced. This was all foreplay. This was all so much more than she saw coming. She’d never done this, this type of action with a client, but Elijah wasn’t a client. Either way, she couldn’t stop. She couldn’t stop the way her body twisted and turned, her hips swaying on way or the other as she’d leave his lap to dance around him. Continue to tease him with her form as she danced and move on top of him, which was probably why she’d gasp when he’d finally grab her and kiss her. Hard. The type of kiss that was meant to make a woman wet, her clit throb just once and her legs clench just a little. She knew she didn’t have to, in fact, he hadn’t even tipped for it, though with a kiss like that it seemed fair payment; but as she was behind him Bonita unclamped her bra. It popped off of her tits with a bounce but didn’t fall yet, still wrapped around her neck to keep it somewhat secure. These were new moves, something she’d always wanted to try with a man. It wasn’t either long before she was in his lap again, this time her back to his front so that her round, firm ass could grind down against him through his jeans. “I think the better question is if you’rehappy with taking the room for the night.” She’d whisper in his ear as she guided his hands to touch up her body, her bra still barely covering her tits from his eyes. Her body was burning in just the right ways, the dim light making her body sparkle a little as she continued to almost dry hump the man with her ass. She was losing herself and didn’t even realize. For too long now, Elijah had carried the weight of his public facing mask. While there had never been a need or want to drop it, there were only so many times he could turn to punching bags and strength training to ease the tension inside of him. This was part of being a leader to a growing, global movement. Having that kind of power, understanding the control required to not simply...crush those who opposed him. Not yet, at least. But Elijah had never wanted to find just anyone to be at his side, either. So many people, men and women alike, reminded Elijah of Bonita’s desperate, forgettable friend. Not like the woman currently perched in his lap. There was a pure sensuality, seductive insight, a passion that Bonita was presenting to Elijah that had been missing from those around him. He’d been the fire to draw his followers in, without a fire of his own. Shouldering it all upon himself, his charisma and charm, now it seemed he’d found someone to ignite their own fire for him. There was every chance from Bonita to calm things down, express the need for no touching, but instead her movements, her actions, only encouraged Elijah to keep going. Her own fingers graced his shirtless form, an electric shiver coursing through Elijah’s nerves. How long had it been, since he’d felt an intimate touch? Late into college with his last girlfriend? It had felt like years now, so long since he’d done anything but work to build his vision. Now he finally had the chance to relax, unleash himself in the VIP room of a strip club, seated with the woman who already seemed to have a dangerous hold on him. But he didn’t give a damn about any of that. He only thought of how her fingers felt caressing along his abs and waistline, the grind of her body against him. To tempt and tease, enticing as only she knew. Bonita seemed eager to up the heat within their private room, returning to Elijah’s lap, only with her back now to him, entering herself between his legs with that impressive backside of hers. A growl escaped his lips with that, an animal still desperate to hold onto the last shreds of control before becoming completely feral. His hands joined hers as she guided him, the whisper of her words causing a soft laugh from Elijah as he leaned in himself, his hands taking a rough, strong hold of Bonita’s body as he added his own dark, lusting whisper to their enticing actions.“No, no, my dear. What you need to ask is if you want to stay here or return with me to my hotel room?” Elijah returned her actions, thrusting into her backside with his jeans. He wanted Bonita to really feel the results of her actions, his long, hard length struggling against the dark denim of his jeans, twitching and throbbing against the fabric as if it might just break free. Hands moved up to her chest, along her bra that was tantalizingly undone, grasping her hard as his mouth nibbled on her ear.“I don’t mind staying here, so long as it's with you. But I also know there is no time limit at my hotel room...and that it also has its own hot tub, a bed that is far too large for just me, and the best room service in this city...” Teeth found her neck next, eager fingers at her nipples now, massaging her chest as Elijah continued to grind into her backside, hot breath teasing at her senses.“...and I want the prettiest girl in the city to join me. I want you, Bonita.” The words were said without thought, without hesitation; which meant it was no bluff. He really was inviting her over to his hotel room for sex. The club would never allow that, not without special payment, but as she contemplated whether she cared enough about her job to say ‘no maybe later’ Elijah started returning the dance. Bond’s body moved with him as his hands touched, gliding and reaching before he grabbed. Bonita let out a small moan at the first true grip, her head tilting every so slightly as he nibbled on her ear. No. She didn’t care about her job enough, and it was clear in the way she was responding, her body moving atop of his, finding his hardened member and targeting the area in her dance. And he what he was ‘selling’ was quite tempting. No real working, just love making and a nice time, unlimited time. Even better, he was making sure she knew it was her he wanted. Sold! Bonita pushed herself off of him and reclasped her bra, there was no sensuality in it, only a feeling of rushing out of there. She could dance anywhere, she could find a new job if she wanted. But at this moment, Bonita wanted to do something risky and stupid, like going back to this man’s hotel room and pretending that she’s anything but a poor stripper. Bonita grabbed her dress, then his shirt to hand back to him, though she openly googled him before quickly dressing herself. “The bouncer might ask why you’re done or where I’m going with you, if you pay him, he keeps his mouth shut. I’ve seen it before. “ She explained to him. “Or, you can get me fired and tell him you’re taking me, and he will let my boss know, which means you will have less than two minutes to get me out of here.” She finished explaining, a naughty and excited smile on her face. “You sure you still want me?” "Bonita, you seem to forget who I am. I'm the leader of a worldwide organization, a cult to some. Some of my enemies are members of governments and corporations." Elijah explained slowly as he stood up, slipping his shirt. He ignored the jacket for the moment, stepping up to the woman whose time and attention he was laying claim on, taking hold of her hair and pulling her in close to whisper to her. "Your boss can cry all he wants about missing you. I want you...so you're mine now." He assured her, before reaching down and picking up his jacket, sliding it confidently over his shoulders and waiting for Bonita to be ready herself. An arm moved possessively around her, pulling Bonita to Elijah's side. There was no hesitation to his movements, walking out of the VIP room as if Elijah himself owned the place. As Bonita had explained, the bouncer looked at them confused as Elijah and Bonita walked by, Elijah ignoring the questions that turned to shouts. He just kept walking, assuredly, and they could hear the bouncer calling for the boss of the establishment, explaining something had happened in one of the private rooms, that Bonita was leaving with a guy. They couldn't make out anything else, entering back into the club as Elijah ushered Bonita towards the exit. But as expected, the shouts of her now former boss followed them. Pausing, Elijah turned to the man, eyeing him up silently before shrugging. "Not worth our time." He told Bonita, holding her tight as they stepped out of the club. Clearly Bonita was worth quite a bit to the man, quick to follow them outside. Where Elijah was waiting. The first hit came to the man's jaw. A second to the stomach. Enough force in each to have the asshole slumping to the ground, a look of dazed confusion to his features. Elijah stepped over the man, a look of dark certainty to his expression as he leaned in, a snarl on his lips."She's. Not. Yours." Each word insisted with a threatening tone as Elijah stood up over the man, straightening out his jacket before turning back to Bonita, walking over to her and returning his hand to her waist, a wolfish grin across his lips." Now darling, with that horrid distraction out of the way, shall we continue onward? Or would you like to get a few kicks in as well?" Bonita wanted to leave with Elijah, she wanted to be taken away like she was some princess. She wasn’t. She was a white in a club, but Elijah was the type of Prince Charming she needed to be too blind to the truth. And so they walked out of the room together, her in his grasp and she's trying to look as normal as possible to throw off the bouncer. Some of the girls watched as they rushed by, the music too loud to make the other clients notice what was happening. They were so close to the door when her boss stopped them, Elijah making a statement that even make Bonita’s jaw slack. She turned with him though, her heels clacking as she tried to keep up with Elijah’s stride. But she was surprised when he pulled her aside and stopped them. Her boss was quick to follow and Elijah was on him before she even understood what was happening. She screamed when he fell and then covered her mouth, the shock on her face as she watched someone fight for her. She looked at him in shock and then her downed boss. It took her a moment, but then she stood a little taller as she looked at the bug in the dirt. “No… you’re right. It’s not worth it.” She stated before adjusting her dress and then linking her arm with Elijah’s so that they could go back into the car and drive off into the sunset. That’s what she told herself at least. "Relax, Bonita. Let me drive, and you can close your eyes for a while." Elijah insisted as the car rumbled to life. One hand on the steering wheel, one hand holding hers. His thumb stroked against her hand as they pulled out of the parking lot, the evening lights flashing by as they drove into the city. With her safety assured, Elijah focused on the peaceful drive, giving Bonita time to catch her breath from the surprise knock-down of her former boss. Elijah clearly wasn't concerned about the potential assault, humming along to himself as they eventually pulled into the parade of the hotel." Ready to enjoy a night of luxury?" He opened the passenger side door for her, helping Bonita out, his hand going to her waist to once again pull the younger woman close. The glass doors opened wide for them, crimson gold carpet leading into a wide open lobby, a few sets of late night check-ins speaking with the front desk, their suits and dresses looking about the same price as Elijah's car. A key-card was produced once they reached the elevator, tapping it once, as their lift to the top of the hotel appeared." Let me know if you want any food or drinks. Even just some desert." Elijah insisted, hand now sliding up and down her back as the elevator began to climb above the city lights, to the more exclusive suites above it all. "And then we can continue with that lovely dance you were showing me." He whispered in her ear, teeth nibbling at her neck, clearly impatient to get his hands on her. But Elijah didn't have to wait long as the elevator dinged for them once more, the cult leader showing Bonita to her new lodgings, the first door on the right. Big enough to be an apartment on its own, the entire place opened up to a wide open space. A false fireplace was centered around a semicircle of luxury furniture, with a full bar and kitchen area off to one side. A balcony overlooked the city, a hot tub in a corner, connected to a bathroom and shower that looked like it had been built specifically to fit more than one person inside at a time. A staircase led upwards to the bedroom, a king-sized bed and mattress awaiting, with its own private balcony. Some of Elijah's things were scattered about, a laptop and filming equipment to keep an eye on things while on tour." So what do you think?" Bonita was pulled in close, Elijah standing directly behind her, a growl in her ear." Enough to be entertained all night?"

Predator and Prey - Crixus & Babygirl1990|rating:4.0

Luna Primum - IC (Always Open)

Luna Primum (Political/Character RP) - IC"Fly me to the moon, let me play among the stars! Let me see what spring is like, on Jupiter and Mars..." - Frank Sinatra, 1954OOCLunar Council After decades of preparations, the first permanent lunar colony has come to fruition. Through years of collaborative effort by NASA, the ESA, the RSC, and the CNSA, a group of fifty-eight colonists from all across the globe have traveled to the moon, following the successful deployment of a lunar shelter. It is now the year 2025, in the very heart of the Sea of Cold, or in Latin, Mare Frigoris. Factions are all vying for control of the Lunar Council. These factions may form together as blocs, which are groups that still run themselves, but vote together on certain issues, for example, religion, or independence. These blocs also get a snazzy new name, and their own color. Everything else that happens to this colony is up to you, you who are the very first Lunar pioneers. How will the moon's culture, its government, its surface, and its colonies grow and develop? Can the first colony cut off ties with Earth, and survive independently? Will the colony remain loyal, or perhaps get a UN status? Will the colony fail, the moon doomed to remain like Antarctica, simply dotted with research stations, conquered by no mere human? With an initial fifty-eight colonists, anything can happen, even in the span of a month. With medical treatment falling upon only one or two colonists, the colony could simply shrivel up and die, ravaged by disease. You yourselves must decide where the colony goes, and how it fares. What will happen to the fledgling colony? How will it survive? Who will take control? Will we become anti-intellectual theocracy? A godless society doomed to civil war? A feudal society where inequality runs rampant? A corporate puppet, ruled by greed? Or a racist society of radical revolutionaries, at war with the Earth itself? FactionsThe New Evangelists- 9 Members, Republic of the Cristo. Apollo Independence Coalition- 10 Members, Neo-Chicago, Blobs. Sanctus Sol Imperium- 8 Members, Came lone. The Libra Charter- 8 Members, Daria. The Sons of the Stars- 10 Members, G-Tech Corporation Gaia Fortuna- 6 Members, Argentina. The Free State of Luna- 7 Members, Laboratory Mouse. This post has been updatedFebuary 14th, 202523:41 GMT Luna Primum Crew TransporterMaxphe German - Chief Life Support Engineer Above LunaMaxphe squinted out the window as they passed across the surface of the moon, trying as hard as he could to spot the base. Try as he might, they were just too high. A voice blared over the intercom "Starting Orbit burn in 10 seconds, brace for high G forces." Grabbing a metal handle above him, Maple began to speak to no-one in particular. "Ahh, I love these parts. It's like a rollercoaster but in space!" A sudden, low rumbling could be heard as the engines roared to life, slowing down the craft. As it accelerated, or rather decelerated, various unsecured objects flew to the back walls of each crew room. The force of the engines push Maple deep back into his seat, and he begins to grin at the thought of the habitat on the moon. As the engines stop, Maple begins to talk again "Wow, here we really are. Sitting in a giant tin can fall down to the ground, aligned perfectly to land on a specific speck of land, where we will eat, sleep, and live for the rest of our lives. It's quite something, isn't it."1 Hour Lateral the ship approached the ground, it begins its final thrusting. The high thrust-to-weight ratio of the craft makes the best way to go about the landing being at a certain point, turning them all on at full blast, slowing them down at just the right time to touch the ground just before they begin to go back upward. This so-called suicide burn is the most efficient way for going about the landing, and those inside the craft feel its full force, the high Gs possibly even causing a couple of people to begin to pass out, however the burn lasts for little time it is likely they will still remain conscience the whole time. Once the exhaust from the engines begin to hit the lunar surface, a cloud of dust and smoke piles up around the landing sight. Maple, looking out through the window and past the dust clouds, sees a magnificent hemisphere of glass; a large structure made from hundreds of glass triangles kept in place by an array of aluminum girders. Attached to its side is a large, square building, for the habitation and other purposes. Our past them lies a vast grid of green, glass pipes, each filled with algae for processing CO2 back into oxygen. Once the ship gets close to the surface, all vision from windows is blocked by the dust cloud. After landing, the new colonists exit the ship, and all line up at the main airlock for entry. In an attempt to rival the speech of Neil Armstrong from the original moon landing, Maple tries to make a triumphant speech as they all stand in awe at the gates "We may be here for the first time ever, but we're home." Mission Year One, Week Two Primary Reactor, Alpha Base Dmitri grunted, his voice coming harsh through the lead-mesh of the maintenance suit's comm. Next to him Natalya's faceplate was misted with condensation, but with one last heave the two nuclear engineers shoved the core module back in to place. Ragged laughter came through the radios as pneumatic hisses signaled the sealing of the containment chamber, then the deep voice of Vladimir rattled in their ears. "All parameters are showing nominal, get back in the cage, and we'll give her a throttle up, swell job comrades." Awkwardly the engineers waddled back to the wall of the sarcophagus, where red lights spun soundlessly. With the rumble of gears two sets of steel blast doors opened and closed, and then with a grateful sigh the graduate from Siberia removed her helmet. Even the filtered air from the cage was a welcome change from the reprocessed oxygenate of the maintenance suits. On the wall a vid screen sparked to life, and the dour lined face of the Chief Science Officer smiled out of the blue pixels. "I'm spinning up the mainline to five-point-oh, we'll hike her through a few basic load cycles once you're both suited down. One thorium reactor, online!" The lights of the cage noticeably brightened, as the reserve batteries switched back to generation. A nice step forward for the colony. "OUR NEW HOME"Part I"We're not doing this! All of you, stop it, now!" Anna rarely ever raised her voice. The fact that her peers, who shared a spot with her at the table in the colony's conference room, were bickering like schoolgirls but were grown men old enough to be her grandfathers called for such a reactionary outburst." Now," she continued, this time in a calm, soothing voice." I understand what this means. We all know I couldn't get here fast enough after learning the truth about my parents'...passing, and being invited to participate. I actually want to realize my parents' dream, and we're not going to do it without flexing some political muscle. I shouldn't even have to say that to anyone at this table right now." The men, clearly a bit embarrassed not with themselves, but with Anna's words, shifted in their seats and pretended to adjust their ties." I didn't think so. From here on out, your arguments will be present in a mature and rational way." The man to Anna's left scoffed." All I'm saying, Miss Sandesgeist, is that we must, in this century, carry out the will of our leaders! If we let Earth get too comfortable, we run the risk of--""We don't have the strength to move against them! This project has just begun official progress! It must be treated with precision!", cried another man who sat across from Anna. His mustache was so large it was comical, betraying the amount of respect he was due for his position. Before the room could erupt into more senseless bickering, Anna stepped in, mainly addressing the mustached man across from her." Exactly right, Hector. We've tallied our votes from earlier, and we're still at an impasse. We'll conclude this meeting -- again -- and see where we're at a few months from now. Until then, we'll all resume our normal duties." Anna was the first to stand up, as her male peers lazily released themselves from their leather chairs and made their way to the doors. That is, all except one, who stood behind Anna until she quickly turned around, half-surprised." Oh. William. What is it?"" I don't know why they put a kid on the executive board, but you'd better not mess this up. I'm serious. You being a Sandesgeist doesn't give you a pass. Not with me." The young lady simply rolled her eyes, turning around to report to her lab space." I'll try to remember," she said with dripping sarcasm. Mission Year One, February 14thCommunications Centre, Alpha Based. Diego Salazar"I was born in Barcelona and live on the Moon - AMA?"" What's your favorite movie?" "Les Misérables, stickler for a good musical adaptation." "Hardest thing you've ever done?" "Stepping off the lander - lol - it's weird to let go off the last connection you have back home." "Cats or dogs?" "I'm a cat person =P"Diego closed the message board, as he edited in a quick thanks and another link to the Luna Primum PR webpage. He'd committed, before leaving, to make that particular interaction his focus for his first week here. While he was, in theory, the main archivist for the Luna colony, in practice he had adopted the role of Communications Officers. For the time being, he was the only one really making too much use of the Communications Centre, beyond a purely administrative capacity, and frankly, there wasn't too much to archive yet. Immediately upon landing, he'd put in requests for the various bits and gadgets he'd need to put together a functional archival room - a climate-controlled cabinet in particular. The biodome, of course, wasn't exactly inconsistent, but he wanted a second line of defense - particularly against moisture build up. For now, Luna Primum's deepest, darkest secrets lived where they were safest - in the cloud. Not its own cloud, mind. Luna had a server, but it's an archivist's job to plan for the worst - he kept a back-up of Luna Serve 1 on the ESA's servers, back in Paris, and they propagated a copy to the partner agencies across the world. 'Sides, he was using that server. The lag in data transmission made research a pain, even for patient academics, making a librarian like Diego surprisingly useful. Scientists on Luna could send him requests for research papers and books done on Earth, and he'd make formal requests for those materials to be digitized and downloaded, as well as put in the hard time to lease with contacts on Earth, who could point out related materials without forcing Luna to download the contents of hefty databases. But, in the meantime, he cleaned. He'd brought a tiny little kit of tiny little tools with him. On Earth, they'd be an art conservator's wet, acrylic, and oil dream. On Luna, they were just another failsafe, separating dust from metal, and the colony from an unbecoming fate. February 15th, 2025Luna Primum Medical Bayer. Sigmund Kalbfleisch was humming a tune, organizing one of the medical cabinets - also wishing for one of the nurses in the Med Bay to assist in these menial duties - when another patient wandered in. "Pardon me, Doctor, I'm feeling sick. I've been feeling sick since we've landed, nauseous..." Sigmund raised his hand. "Chances are that that is your body adapting to our new home. This isn't Earth, you and every other colonist will probably be experiencing one form or another of gravity sickness. Of course, I'll run some tests and make sure that it isn't anything else," Sigmund said with a smile. That's what the doctor had been preoccupied with, lately. Truthfully, he had been experiencing symptoms of gravity sickness for a while, as well. Almost everyone had. He was told that there was little that could be done about such things, except a few minor treatments here and there and the advice of allowing patients to gradually adjust to their new home. For one thing, Sigmund missed seeing the towering Baroque spire of the St. Michael's Church, the sounds emanating from the port of Hamburg, traveling to the Hamburg Bauhaus to discuss politics with his fellow admirers of politics, and last - but certainly not least - the...male company. In Hamburg, the young doctor had many a lover, a few boyfriends here and there, but nothing worth staying for. In truth, Sigmund was partially glad for the chance for a retreat, though, at this point, he wasn't exactly sure if he bit off more than he could chew. Well, at least here, in this little outpost on the moon, he could focus on his two passions: medicine and politics. Luna Primum Colony, Year One, Week Two David Aurelius Paine, Head of Communications and Lunar Mission Control David was rocking out to what was hands-down his favorite band, Muse. He was relaxing in the Communications Center, the only place he found he could get any peace. The only other person who was up there at the time was this guy, David thought his name was... Durango or something. No wait, Diego, he corrected himself. They'd chatted a few times, but he found it hard to connect with the guy - most likely because he found it hard to connect with anyone. The music nowadays, he thought, was just awful. At least he'd been able to understand why some people liked Justin Bieber, but these new guys were just objectively terrible. None of their songs, least of all their first hit single, Remember Uruguay, made any sense. Their instruments consisted of maracas, a busted synth, and a cowbell. In addition, their lead singer was a recovered smoker, one of the guys who had a hole in their neck, so he had to use a special device to talk. David had brought his own personal laptop, even though, in addition to the ones in the living quarters, there were personal computers built into the walls of the hallway at certain intervals. The internet could get a bit spotty at times, but it was usually fine. He decided to compose an inter-colony communication, to the heads of two of the other parties. There were only about two weeks until the next supply rocket arrived, so the Lunar Council would be meeting in three days. The colony was already out of jerky, and were running low on string cheese. If they didn't ration enough, they might have to resort to eating...algae. If that did happen, David was going to go on some kid of hunger strike. Maybe he would eat the leaves off of the few trees that were in the Bio-dome itself. Alternatively, he'd heard that grass tasted pretty good around this time of year. All joking aside, there were only so many things one could make with algae. All of them were horribly, horribly disgusting. The way he saw it, algae was for oxygen, and oxygen only. David planned on requesting watermelon seeds to grow along the sides of the dome in some places. Watermelons were, as far as he was concerned, the most efficient plant to grow that actually tasted good. They were delicious, and with a single one, you were good on snacks for a month. Plus, they were healthy. Besides the growing room of the watermelon itself, all you needed was a little space for a vine, which was almost no space at all. At least with a colony of fifty-eight, watermelons would be the best food source. He sent the communication. From: David Aurelius Paine To: Isaac Malone, Anna SandesgeistSalutations, I'd like to request for your respective parties to join my bloc, which, with the three of us, would be called the Separatist Triumvirate. We would vote together on matters of independence, and proposals which would set our colony on the path of self-sufficiency. There are many other parties, especially those among "Gaia Fortuna", who oppose a colony free from the authority of Earth, and a colony which would be free to pursue its own interests, and the interests of its people. Though I realise we disagree in other matters, I feel that a substantial effort could be made towards a sovereign Lunar state. If you request to know, I can tell you what being a bloc entails, if you don't already know. I'd also be willing to change the name, although you have to admit, the Separatist Triumvirate sounds pretty awesome. Otherwise, just respond with a yes or no. I hope that this can be a conducive relationship, provided you agree to join the bloc. Sincerely, David Aurelius Paine, Head of Communications and Lunar Mission Control Year 1 Week 22025Two men were just walking throughout the colony as neither really had anything to do at the moment, Father Franz already set up his workshop and already built a small alter to hold mass around while Finley Coffin already did his rounds to check the security of the colony. The two men were taking a little break to talk about the upcoming Lunar Council meeting "Finley I can not stress this enough, but you must represent the Church on this council with the vigor of the saints and martyrs as many on the council will not want to listen to an old priest."" I understand Father and the Church shall be protected. May I redirect this conversation before we have the same conversation we had a few minutes ago as you seem to not understand that I already understood you the first time." Finley joked a little prompting a chuckle from Franz." Like I said I'm an old man." Franz said with another chuckle before he waved his hand signaling Finley to go on." Food rations are running low, and I think it would be for our best interests if you announced a fast for all Catholics on this colony, we consume less food, and we show the other colonists the sacrifices that we are willing to make to help this colony survive. There is also something else we must note, Sanctum Sol Imperium is outnumbered by a long shot on the Lunar Council and the only other group similar to our own is the New Evangelists. Now I know that the New Evangelists are not exactly in line with everything we stand for but in protecting Christian values we stand united against the secularist groups." Finley said stopping and turning around to look Father Franz in the eyes." Yes that is certainly a good idea. I will send the memo out, it is based on sound reasoning, and I will contact Anton Mon derv in regard to forming a bloc with his faction. Also remember Finley a High Mass will be held tonight tell the members of our group and other Catholics throughout the colony. The Lord be with you." Franz said nodding his head towards Finley." And with your spirit." Finley said bowing to Father Franz before he walked off to fulfill his side of the agreement. Returning back to his workshop Father Franz first sent out a message to all the registered Catholics in the colony of the voluntary fast and of the upcoming High Mass that night. After that was sorted out he sent the communication to Anton Mon derv. From: Father Franz TiedemanTo: Mr. Anton Monterey honorable colleague and pious brother in the name of Christ I wish you good fortune. I wish to propose to you an idea of cooperation between our two noble groups. In the face of such powerful secularist groups, and in high numbers nonetheless, all Christians must band together to defend the holy Word of God Almighty and prevent the corruption of Terra to seep its way into our Luna society. I propose that we form the Christian Coalition to support Christian values on the Lunar Council and prevent the same corruption that plagues Terra to harm our righteous cause here on Luna. I pray you accept this agreement as we must always stand on guard against the forces of Satan that wish to do away with the word of God. God protect you dear colleague. Konstantin Ivanovich PetrenkoChief Mechanical Engineer, Year One Week Two Konstantin woke up early in the morning. He looked out of the window, it was all the same, night, day only difference was which part of the Earth he saw. He put on his clothes and went on a routine check up of the colony. All engines and doors and other mechanical parts were checked, all of it must be in perfect condition for colony to work. Every bolt and piston was in perfect condition, so Konstantin moved to check on the Lunar Rovers. These Rovers were far more advanced than the ones used in the Apollo missions. He didn't ride in one but wanted really badly, so he made a mental note to ask anyone that was driving it next to take him along. After he finished he walked to the cafeteria to eat something, but still food was bad only the fruits were good. Period 14, Sol 1, Demon 0 LC (Lunar Calendar)17:44 GMTMaxphe German's Living Quarterstaff German - Chief Life Support Engineer Luna Primum BaseMaxphe sat in is office - or rather, his living quarters as they are one and the same - pondering on how to get people to use his new Lunar Calendar. He had made it on the second day of being on the base, and since then it has gotten a little popularity, but people are still predominantly using the useless earth calendar, or some earth calendar based mission time, both of which are irrelevant on the moon. One lunar day (Not it's rotational period, but the time it takes for one spot on the moon to go from sunrise to sunset twice, plus small variations to account for orbital mechanics) is 29 (Earth) days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 3 seconds long, making normal days, weeks, months and years useless metrics for such a colony. His system used lunar days, however, since many people don't want to let go of their 24-hour days periods have been added, and one period is 24 hours long. The base time on the moon is in hours of this period, which is always synced to Earth time via GMT. Luckily, due to the length of a Lunar day, each one is about a month long, so they can see what part of a year it is by substituting day for month and period for day, but this way it is much more useful and factual. However, the 12-month year has been disposed of for a 10 day 'Demon', which is approx 80.8% of an Earth year. This Lunar Calendar, while not only much more useful than the Gregorian Calendar, also will hopefully help the independence of the base as this will cut a large chunk of the cultural connection back to Earth that we maintain via still using a calendar and day system that works only for them. Maple then decided to write a base-wide email informing the colonists about the new proposed calendar and to not only begin using it, but hopefully vote for its legislation in the Lunar Council as an official (If nottheofficial) calendar system for the base. Dear Esteemed Colonist, Have you ever noticed how long the sun stays in the sky here on the moon? I sure have, and two weeks of sunlight at a time is most defiantly a strange thing to experience. We can mostly mitigate the effects of long days and nights with artificial lighting and thick shuttered windows, but there's something that no amount of hardware can fix; the calendar system. Here on this base, we still use the system for days, months, weeks and years made by our ancestors from Earth, back in a time when traveling to the stars was but a dream. Now, however, we have left the icy grip of Earth, and should leave with it their system for measuring time. Noon is pretty useless when it takes over a thousand hours for the sun to set! This new calendar system would solve all of that. Here is how it works: Each lunar day, that is to say the time from sunrise to sunrise, plus a few corrections for orbital mechanics, is 29 (Earth) days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 3 seconds long. This period will be called a Sol, each of which are about a month long. Sounds too long to keep track of? Well, we have you covered, each Sol is split up into periods, and one period is one Earth day. The time at any given point is based off of the point we are in of that Earth day, based on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), so we are always synced back with Earth whilst also using a much more useful, and superior time system for the longer durations. Every ten Sols are called a Demon, similar to an Earth year, however it is only 80.8% the length of a regular Earth year, but given that we both don't have seasons and that the object that Luna orbits around is the Earth, not the Sun, this actually makes much more since. This also gives the added bonus of it becoming a metric style year system, so you can easily know exactly how many sols it has been in a given set of Demons, i.e. 30 Sols for 3 Demons. Like the idea? Great! Many people have already switched to this method before, and you can easily too. Due to its ties with normal, 24-hour days, you have to change little of your routine, and it still helps greatly to maintain normal sleep and work schedules, while also helping you track how long it will be before the Sun comes back up, among many other things. However, just using it is not enough, for if its use becomes widespread it must get passed legislation. If you support the Lunar Calendar, then please help it move along in the Lunar Council as an official method of time. Sincerely, Maxphe KermanPressing enter, the E-mail was sent to all colonists on the base. He has high hopes for its success, but fears people won't want to make the transition. Either way, it had been a while since he had done a checkup on the oxygen systems, so Maple decided to get up and go do the routine checkups. His first check was the ventilation systems, all twenty pairs of them. Each pair had an oxygen output and a CO2 filter which separated the CO2 from other gases. After the first 14, all nominal, plus a systems online check, he decided to move on, assuming the remaining 6 were fine, and even if they weren't the base only needs 10 operational to maintain save O2 levels. Checking the algae farms required going out on the Lunar surface, for which Maple was quite excited about, but doing so required a pass from Gus, the Head Permissions Officer. Maple trotted off to his office to get the pass. Gus began to talk before Maple was even fully in the door "Hello... Maple was it? How can I help you today?"" I need an Extra-Habitat-Activities pass, please."" What is the reason for your ERA request?"" I just need to do some routine inspections on the algae farm. You know, make sure one isn't leaking or something."" Sure, I think I can do that. I will just have to see your Lunar ID Card, and we're all set." Maple fumbled around for his card, handing it over where Gus swipes it into a machine and hands it back, then beginning to speak "You do seem to have passed the ERA certification tests, so now if I just put this in... and... Alright, you're all set. You know have an ERA pass valid for the next twelve hours. Just swipe your LID at one of the airlocks, and it should provide you access."" Thanks." said Maple whilst exiting the room. He ran over to the main airlock door and swiped is LID, the entry door opening up, then closing back down once he entered. Nobody else was in the airlock as he put on his ERA suit, securing the helmet and hearing the measuring 'Suit Pressurized, Sealed and Secured', then with a green light on the exiting bulkhead door turning on. He pulled up the plastic covering and pressed the button that read 'Open Airlock Out'. All the air from the room was sucked out via a vent just before the door slowly opened, and Maple exited. He bounded around on the surface towards the algae farm. Once there, Maple inspected each section. The farm consisted of a bunch of platforms, each with two glass tubes on each of them. They were filled with water and algae, so when they are exposed to light and CO2 they start growing and purifying CO2 into oxygen. He had to inspect each one, making sure they were all working nominally, and there were a lot of them in this giant grid of algae. The majority of the farm is entirely these growth pods, however that isn't the whole part. At the bottom, an area exists for harvesting some of the algae. Initially, a harvester tube takes some of the algae out of a pod or set of pods, and stores it in a tank. The tank has several pipes that go into different refineries. One harvests Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) from the algae, which can be used for both alcoholic drinks, and for fuel, and sends the algae back. Another takes the algae, grinds it up, and turns it into salts and vegetable oil, very important ingredients to a lot of foods. One other takes the algae, turns it into a purée, and either sends that back for food production, or dries it in a big glass tank with no CO2, where it is then sent back for other food production. The whole process of inspecting the entire grid took about three hours, and when Maple got done he was quite happy to be over with working for the night. Walking back to the airlock, repressurizing and resulting, he went back to the lounge area. Parched, he went over a fridge and made an Algal ch (Essentially grain alcohol but from algae) & Coke, and relaxed for the rest of the night. Anton Mordred Luna base alpha, week 2 year 1Anton was hungry. He and numerous other members on the base were taking on a voluntary fast that had been started by the resident Chaplin. Anton was still trying to wrap his mind around his present circumstances. 2 weeks ago, he was firmly planted on the Earth's surface, walking about the snow covered streets of Solis, and now he was sitting in front of a command module operating the control rods of the moon's first nuclear power plant. The reactors had been working for about 3 and a half weeks now, providing power for the entire lunar base. Anton looked into a glass screen cover on the dashboard of the command module to see what the temperature of the water was in the reactor core. 290 C on the dot. The pressurised water was being pumped into the chamber over where it would evaporate into steam and push the turbine powering the station. Anton enjoyed these new thorium reactors; far more than the outdated and frankly dangerous graphite reactors he used to work on in Poland. Although the thorium reactors were a bit more maintenance, the efficiency of the machines made up for it. Although many were unaware, nuclear maintenance was not nearly as hard as one may believe. The fuel rods was last for up to 2 decades so would not need replacing for a long while, most diagnostics could be taken from a series of computers placed all throughout the station, and the control rods hardly ever malfunctioned. The water recycling was a nuisance though; what with having to use the same water for everything from drinking, to energy production. However, at the moment Anton simply sat back in the command module and scrolled through his base communicator for any received messages. The Chaplin had sent him a message regarding the possibility of a pact. Although Anton thought him and his group an... odd bunch, he did realise that they at least agreed on enough issues to be a somewhat cooperative force. To: Franz Sideman From: Anton Montreal would be willing to humor such ideas of cooperation, but only under the condition that neither group dictates policy without first consulting and reaching consensus from the other. If and when this condition is met I would be willing to cooperate. Mission Year One, Day One Isaac sat breathless as he peered out the window at the vast emptiness around him; he had been to the steppes of Eastern Asia and to the beaches of Polynesia but had never witnessed anything so beautiful. He was glad he had been chosen for this trip, he would turn this beautiful and vast emptiness into a thing of profit. He would bring intergalactic trade to the moon and be known as the first man to do business in outer space, as he joked. In all realness, this would be a grand step for the ambitious young man, but with other's greedily eyeing for their own piece of the pie, he had to be on his wits end. Strapped up to his harness he heard a voice over the intercom shout, "Starting Orbit burn in 10 seconds, brace for high G forces". As he buckled up he studied the various faces of those who would be inhabiting this new frontier with him. He was a people person, he could read men and women alike with ease. This trip would be more challenging as his colleagues didn't share the same professions; they were astrophysicists and botanists, men of science, while he was a business major. Although he was just as intelligent as the rest of the men on this trip, he would have to work harder to get along and use his suave words to bend them at his will. It was quite similar for Jack but worse, he wasn't a people person. While all these people, even Isaac, were college educated, he sat as some gun-holding brute. Jack felt anxious around these, whom he considered pompous, people. Yet he had a job to do, and if it went well he would be rich! Although he signed a contract stating that he would put the security of the colony first, the agenda of the Libra Charter was his main priority. After the rocky landing the group had made it safety to their new home. As the various men and women exited the craft in awe, some muttering phrases such as, "Wow, here we really are. Sitting in a giant tin can fall down to the ground..." or something along those lines. Isaac didn't care one bit, he sent his bureaucrats to work to examine what would be exactly needed logistics wise. Isaac quickly called out, "for all those that care, in whatever departments you are, send me a list of needed materials so we can have the needed supplies to have the colony running at full capacity. Remember anything having to do with logistics or obtaining materials just come to me" he looked over at Jack, "I am trying to get out of this bulky space gear and into a nicely pressed suit" he smiled as Jack nodded at him. Mission Year 1, Week 2Isaac had been cramming his workload before beginning his actual "getting-to-know-you" routine with the crew. He had been getting manuscript after manuscript of needed information and began crunching numbers to get a rough figure of what would be needed if they could get some sort of resupply. He dug his fork into one of the few baked potatoes and muttered, "glad those few loonies are fasting, more food for the rest of us." When his eyes began to burn from the gleaming white of the financial documents he peaked over to see his intercolonial communication folder piling up with various emails, one stood out. It had been from David Aurelius Paine, the head of communications. Isaac immediately opened it and began reading, "interesting" he thought to himself. Isaac hadn't thought of full independence from Earth, but this sparked his interest. He knew his father's health was deteriorating and that his dreaded brother would resume control of the Absalom Corporation, so why not weaken his grip on the colony? Yet he didn't know what the other six lackeys, each who represented the various companies and political entities involved in the charter, would think." To hell with it..." Isaac knew that to grow his own power he would have to make friends. Creating a coalition could put Isaac in a very powerful position and with some of the more important figures belonging to this bloc, they would be a force not to be reckoned with. To: David Aurelius Paine From: Isaac Malone Hello Mr. Paine! I remember we had a chance to speak before we departed on our journey, you seem like a very level-headed man. Such a man I would like on my side. I would like to inform you I am intrigued with your proposition and am I leaning towards a yes. I'd like to speak in person before I make this decision. As you know being an administrative officer I haven't been able to speak much to anyone in the colony lately (been crunching numbers all day!) and I would appreciate you giving me a reason to escape this hellish cell of mine. What do you say about two hours from now? I will meet you in the common room? I hope to hear a quick reply Sincerely, Isaac Malone Mission Year One, Week Two The first time that he left Europe would be on a one way trip to the moon, Walter could not have guessed it even a few years ago. He would have thought that the entire thought would have been crazy a few years ago. He chuckled to himself at the mere thought. One day he was a world-renowned chemist in Europe, and now he was also a world renowned adventurer, and one of the first men on the moon to be there forever. He felt like he wanted to go home, but it was not the time to think about that. He needed to concentrate on the task on hand. He lifted a small quantity of Martial, a chemical that he managed to smuggle aboard claiming that it was an essential need for his experiments, something that he was going to use to create a secret stash of truth serum, that might come in great use later on. Once he put the Martial into the test tube he poured some Ethanol into the test tube. He started to mix the two chemicals together, and the substance that might come in handy in faction in fighting starts. After the substance had been created he put it in a flask, and plugged it in with a stopper before putting some food coloring in. It was to disguise the color of the serum to make it more similar to things the uneducated would think was classic things in a chemist's lab. He put down his chemistry work for a while, he had a project that he had been working on for the last week, with some preparation back down at Earth. Genetically Modified large potatoes ready to harvest in a mere month. Of course, they were tasteless, and were quite mushy, but it was better than nothing, and starvation. But, he still needed to try the first prototype before the introduction before the lunar council. After all, he would not want everyone getting cancer from the GMO. He planted the modified potato seed into the ground, and would check back on it once the time came a few days later. For now, he would need to give the leader of his faction a message, he scribbled a note on a piece of paper, and went outside his lab. When he saw Vladimir, he pretended to bump into him, and gave him the scribbled message. To Vladimir YashnevFrom Walter On Mecklenburg What is our plan for the faction in the coming days. I sense something major is going to happen, please slip me a note sometime in the future, about what you think about the coming ordeal.

Luna Primum - IC (Always Open)|rating:3.0

Sails and Ropes (SweetRevenge X Milanthe)

Quote from: Milan the on 19-10-2012, 05:03:59Isabel Cheriton was a scholar, she was a teacher and a woman who hated guns. Until the little settlement where she taught was taken by Pirates. She was one of the few that survived the attack, managing to hide with a few children. Afterward however, no help came from the King or his Army. So, she helped herself and those that remained, and then continued to do so in the worst ways, taking a new name so that not only would her old family be protected, but so that she herself could look in the mirror and at least pretend that she wasn't betraying Isabel Cheriton. After all, she didn't exist anymore. Captain Jezebel Monroe on the other hand, did. And Captain Jeez pissed off the Military and other Pirates like no other with the way she worked. Often her ship would tear supplies and materials from their own ships and then, while she was keeping a great majority... On the outskirts of civilization, there were those who would also profit from her raids. Those who were finding themselves more and more forgotten by the King and his Military that had promised them protection. Jeez wouldn't call herself a Robin Hood - she was too selfish for such a thing as that, but damned if it wasn't a sure thing that that woman was going to end up starting a Revolution. Name: Isabel Cheriton aka Captain Jezebel "Jeez the Red" Monroe Age: 21Gear: Jeez doesn't seem to favor any particular weapon, as long as it looks pretty she can wear it, and if it's small enough, she can hide it in her outfit. She usually wears at least one sword or rapier at her hip and will have either a shot gun on her back or a pistol by the sword at her side, for visible weapons. For non-visible, she does seem to favor corsets with hidden knives in the ribbing, and hair combs with hidden blades as well. Personality: Jeez does everything she can to appear eccentric. Some would say crazy. After what she'd been through, and who she was before, however... Who can blame her if she really was? She adores pretty and bawdy things. While she is a girlie girl though, she's won a crew with a sharp blade and a sharp tongue. She built her first crew from no-nothings, but along the way, they have trained, and she has picked up some of the best she can find for her ship. Quite the talent scout she is. Brief History: Jeez has not existed for long, but her career, though short, has gotten her to be a thorn in everyone's side unless they happen to be on the outskirts of the Empire. She doesn't seem to favor any beyond that, however, donating things that she and her crew can't keep aboard to islands and towns that are in need. The life of Isabel Cheriton on the other hand, was a longer one, though it seemed to end with Jeez's appearance. Isabel came to her home island after school to become a teacher herself, replacing the old one who had been retiring. She wasn't as well taught as she should have been, but the school needed her, and the island village couldn't afford any better. She married at the age of 17, and loved her husband and their son, who was born rather scandalously seven months after their marriage. Despite whispers that eventually calmed, however, they were happy. Until pirates came. They ransacked everything. Destroyed everything they could, and killed far too many. Isabel had managed to hide with a few school children, but her husband and son... They met a much more gruesome fate. The school teacher is nothing like the Captain however, as she always hated weapons and fighting, and though her husband was well off, insisted that he never give her anything expensive to wear. Other: Jeez carries a locket, none of her crew seems to know what is carried inside, but the woman has been known to truly act half mad when ever it's location is lost to her. She even once jumped off the ship when it was thought to have gone overboard, in search of the thing. The strange thing about it, however, is unlike all the rest of her treasures, it is not a gaudy piece at all. It in fact seems to be made from iron - a rather precious metal that does not make up jewelry most oft. And it is rather plain. She acts as if it were the treasure of Black Beard himself, however. If one were to consider Isabel's husband, he might have had it made so that he could give her something precious that she would accept. Appearance: Jeez wears a man's breaches, perhaps, that are too tight for her. But, do not be mistaken for how this might make her seem manly. Petticoats, lacy and frilly shirts, leather boots and jewelry galore always adorn her, and she is never found to not have a corset on underneath it all. Her name, "The Red", refers to her hair and clothes. Her hair is a natural red - she strangely has never died it as is the fashion for ladies to do so. The clothes she wears, are of a less natural color however, as she often decorates herself with crimson petticoats, and ruby jewels. She strangely enough has rather dull brown eyes - her own words - in which she hates. She will often wear make up of brighter colors, such as green or blue, to make her eyes stand out more and in a less dull way. When in public and not in the privacy of her captain's quarters, she refuses to be seen without her make-up and at least one set of jewelry (necklace, bracelet, ring and a pair of earrings). If one considers Jeez camp; Isabel's combined past, it could perhaps be considered that she dresses so gaily to please Isabel's husband, who never got to give her pretty things, as she always did reject them, a reason he loved her yet also would always get angry with her about. Quote from: Sweet Revenge on 19-10-2012, 03:38:57Name: Ray Arrange: 24Gear: 2 flintlock pistols, a cutlass and a great sword (You'll see why =J)Personality: Ray is a man who just believes that the king doesn't run things the right way and outright opposes him. He isn't afraid of facing the military and is known for boldly going out of his way to decimates military ships. He practically ruled a small island a good distance off any coasts and secluded, but big enough to be able to support itself. Furthermore, he enjoys life without any rules and lives for fun. Brief History: Born on the island he saw first-hand what the king thought of the little islands too far and too useless to bother helping out the townsfolk. When he reaches 15-16, he started to rally a few townsfolk, mostly other teens. He convinced them to start working on the island and get enough produce to make a boat. And a few years later, the island started to flourish, and they made a small fishing boat with the help of the local carpenter. What he chose to do next changed the island's history. He got on with his best friends and boarded a military ship in the middle of the night. They killed every single soldier, sailed to the capital and tossed the captain's body in their bay before sailing off to their island, running off with everything in it. He returned, rallied more villagers and had a decent sized crew. He had the village in his palm; they helped him maintain the ship and sail it and in return, he shared the spoils of his raids and attacks on colonial and military camps; anything with a royal emblem were at risk while he was still prowling on the seas. Other: He has a collection of firearms and swords on his ship. He also has his family heirloom; a gift from the king back when they had just started to travel the seas and coasted to his island. A few generations later, the blade usually rested on his shoulders and used it when attacking anything that is related one way or another to the king. It's his way of spitting on the king's honor. Appearance:(from: Milan the on 19-10-2012, 15:17:22---Sails camp; Ropes---Every nerve ending sung with excitement. Yes, that was a proper phrase to describe how she felt as she looked at the small pirate's town; Grabby, and island of Iron crest. Owned and called home by it was said a Captain Ray. A successful man by any means, but he was just a brute like the rest. A brute, she noticed, that hoarded things in that town that she needed. She loved her pretty things, but pretty things could only get a Lady so far into the Royal Court of the Empire. No, if she wanted... Well, that was a different story. Right now, the story was of how she was going to take this town for her own. Jezebel Monroe was a cruel woman in her own opinion, and always a fashionable one. She wore breaches on the ship of course, it was just so much more convenient. But she did not forget her lace shirts and petticoats. Right now, a shirt with laced sleeves and a ruffled collar adorned her slim form. The majority of its soft cloth was hidden by her corset and vest and petticoat, however, all different shades of crimson that she pulled off marvelously. What she perhaps did not pull off so marvelously, was wearing the powder that was so popular in the Empire's Courts. Her nose was too long to pull off such a pale look. But she had the bone structure, it was evident, to be a stunning woman if she would just leave the gaudy stuff off her face. But no, she had to wear it. She had to be different from... Oh, that's dipping into another story again! That make up, the white powder and colored creams that adorned her cheeks and lips and colored charcoal about her eyes would not be seen off of her face in public. Ever. It made her nervous to even have one person look on her in such a naked state. No, more than nervous, outright enraged and embarrassed. Ruby earrings the size of her thumbs hung from her ears, and golden and silver chains hung around her neck, she was a bit conservative that day, not wearing any pendants. Gold hoops jangled around her wrists, however, and she had no less than three rings on each hand. An odd thing however, could be noted to the observant eye. A metal chain - unpolished, hung from the belts about her hip, one end tied to a belt securely, while the other end seemed to be tied to a non-spectacular pendant. A pocket watch? Well, whatever it was, it was tucked away into another belt, only the tip-top of the thing being visible. Captain Jeez shouted orders to her men above deck and the women manning the cannons below. Yes, women. Just as much as she was one. She recognized that a woman could be much more than a school teacher. Much, much more. "Aim for the ships, but leave that War Ship! I want it after we're through! I don't want it sunk, 'ere I'll never see it's sails again!" She wasn't that cruel. That ship would remain to protect the island. It would perhaps be a thorn in her side for that battle, but she'd muddle through. She always did. "The rest, the boats, the harbor! Run it ragged! When we're done, we'll storm the town to find this Captain Ray and show him how we deal with yellow-bellied scum!" And he was, to her, all the wealth he had amassed, and only one island profited from it, only one island remained protected under his guard. Every place she touched profited from her gentle caress. Every place she touched the pirates knew not to seek, and the Empire was quick learning was lost to them. She waved to the boat that was parallel to the Crimson Rose, calling over. "One! Are you ready, Captain Opp! This will be your island soon," she called to the man she'd called her second in command on the Crimson Rose for the better part of the two years she had been pirating. Such success, for one who had only done a job for two years. The Golden Horse - a cargo ship that had once been the Empire's pride and joy, now hers to cart her bounty behind her - was his till that new war ship was hers. Then she would trade him happily the war ship for the Golden Horse and half of it's crew." I'm ready, Classy! Thought I hate to see your beautiful face go," he called over to her. The man was older, but he was the only companion she had allowed herself. She had to admit, she was sad to see him go as well. He was the only one that she would allow seeing her without her makeup with any comfort. Now, all she had was a stupid cabin girl who she wished she could make walk the plank. The girl was his niece, however, so even if her heart wasn't so soft, she could never do it. Though she knew they would meet again. He was to take care of the island that would be their strong hold, after all. She grinned as he shouted to her his readiness, watching as he called out orders to his men and women. Neither of them had a first mate yet, now, as he had been hers, and it was hard work finding someone of such trust. She motioned to him that she was going to shout her order to attack before she turned and screamed, "Out with their rotten and black BLOOD! ATTACK!" As the cannons went off, she shook and threw back her wild and natural red hair, one of the things that had named her 'The Red'. She didn't care what she was called, as long as her own private goals were met. And so, the attack on Grabby, began. Quote from: Sweet Revenge on 19-10-2012, 21:17:25"Ray! Ray! Get up!" A man had just barged in the captain's lair, ran up to the pile of blankets on a chair and shook it violently. "GET UP! WE'RE UNDER ATTACK!" The man shouted. It didn't take more to wake up captain Ray Farley, captain of the Bullet's Edge. Why a name like that, you say? Because, though his ship was much smaller than most warships out there, it's sails were big and the ship was shaped like a bullet. He was known for rapid assaults and, with his ruthless and crazy ideas, he decided to cover the front of his ship in solid steel, painted black. But that is a different tale and kept for later. The man was already on his feet and around his lair, grabbing weapons from his arsenal and making sure they were loaded." Is it the army? The king?" Ray asked." No sir. By the looks of it, another pirate." The man replied. "Quickly they're already at the harbor and started firing!" He exclaimed. "Fine. Let's defend our homeland!" He shouted as he ran through the door carrying 3 rifles, 4 to 5 flintlock pistols and a tempered steel cutlass from the first military captain he had taken down. Ray emerged to the top of the village. Naturally, he had chosen himself a refuge a little more out of the way with a great view of the town below and the harbor. The small town of Grabby, situated in the crescent-shaped bay of the island of Iron crest was usually a nice, calm place, except for the crew who were bumbling everywhere because they had drank too much. Hidden all the way on top of the hill which the village was built on, stood a windmill and the secret entrance to his own lair. Behind the windmill were a few farms, mostly farmland covered the rhombus-shaped island (except for the corner where the island has a circular bay) The village was usually a nice view, but today, a ship was right in the port of Grabby, firing cannons on the harbor. He could hear people screaming from where he was. It didn't take long for captain to race down to his town, pistols already in hand. He had only a single thing on his mind; protect the town. Once in town he skidded to halt and turned to a crew mate who didn't seem to know what to do. "YOU! Quickly rally everyone you can from the village and bring them to the farmlands. Make sure no one follows the group. We have to evacuate. That ship has more firepower than we have; the Bullet's Edge won't be able to get close enough to deal any damage without ricking of being sunk in general. They're pirates, we know what they're here for." Ray called out. The man nodded and ran ahead, telling people to flee for the farms under Captain Ray's order. The villagers and other crew members didn't question it; they all started scrambling for the hills. Evacuation plans had already been done before, even drills. Everyone knew what their role was. Ray headed from the church tower, ducking around running people and such, and started to ring the bell. It was a good way to get the word around to get away from the bay. Once the bell had its momentum to keep ringing for a little longer, Ray was already out on the streets, heading for the harbor itself and help with the crew who had stayed for the fight. Quote from: Milan the on 19-10-2012, 15:17:22---Soon, the harbor was down, just the way Red liked it... After all, she couldn't have her enemies attempting to boat out to her ship, could she? "Lower the boats," she told a crewman, she fully intended in dealing with Captain Ray herself, after all. It was only proper that one Captain should be the end of another. She leaned dramatically against the wooden sides of the ship, watching the boats be lowered before she climbed down - being the first, of course. She trusted her crew, but you still could only trust a pirate you could see. Once the boats were full, she shouted them to disengage from the ship and get to what was left of the harbor. The boats were oared to their place and pulled ashore. Her men - a couple women - didn't hurt those who were obviously civilians as they went through. But... It was strange... There were so few people left..." Hm... Perhaps he isn't a complete leech," Jeez murmured under her breath after shooting an enemy pirate who thought he might take her head off himself. Her pirates however, were the better it seemed as far as they went starting to step out from the harbor and into the city. "Oh, Captain Away," she sang, though she had thought perhaps the big bad captain might hide himself away underneath a host of pirate guards. "MMM... Go... I want him myself. I want not a scratch on him when he's brought to me," she ordered watching them move. Her fingers of her unarmed hand played with the simple iron chain that hung from her belt, tracing the ugly pendant that was tucked there as she listened and looked. He had ordered the people evacuated after all... Who's to say he did hide himself? "Captain Ray, Captain Ray, here he hides in his bay... The lovely Red wants to play... So won't you come out, Captain Ray? Or will you go away, and hope to fight another day," she hummed, perhaps seeming mad, insane... Off her clock. It was the best way, in her mind, to keep people on their toes, after all. Quote from: Sweet Revenge on 19-10-2012, 21:17:25Ray had climbed up a house and slung the 3 rifles down beside him as he crouched to the top. He was a few blocks away from Red, but Ray was well hidden amongst the black shillings on the roofs. He observed his foes while she taunted him before taking aim. "Madame wishes to play..." He narrowed his eyes as a grin spread on his lips. "Then let us play." Click... A shot rang out like a thunderclap, slamming a man in the shoulder that he was holding a pistol with. The man in question was right behind Red. The bullet went clean through and into a barrel behind said man, dodging 4 to 5 of them. Ray threw the rifle away and grabbed the second one. The rifles only had a single shot and reloading wasn't exactly quick or stealthy. "Who's next?" He added, knowing she probably doesn't hear him at all. Ray slung the rifle he was holding and grabbed the other one as he broke into a sprint over the roof, jumping into the street in front of the house and started to run down the rest of the hill. Slinging the rifle he was holding with one arm on the trigger, he aimed rapidly for one who was trying to find him and pulled the trigger. Another thunderclap echoed against the walls of the village, a powerful bullet punching the man right in the heart and flying for a few feet. Ray didn't stop his sprint once the shot was done, turned a corner and broke the rifle across a pirate's chest, breaking multiple ribs and knocking the breath out of him. Ray skidded to a halt a few feet away an alley, using the momentum to swing the last rifle into his hands. The rifles, though powerful, weren't made to last very long. They were still prototypes of Ray's. He calmed his breath, knowing he was much closer to Red than earlier. Last shot? Ray looked down at the gun. "One last shot from this one... I should save it..." He switched to a flintlock pistol in one hand and looked over, took aim, pulled the trigger. Click... Nothing. The pistol misfired. Said pistol was also thrown towards Red's group in anger. Misfires were the one thing that Ray had a lot of trouble dealing with. He was quick to remember to stay hidden, but not quick enough to stop himself from throwing the gun. He quickly grabbed another one; he still had 3 more pistols and a rifle shot, without counting the cutlass on his side. Bang. Henry - was that his name? She had such trouble remembering the new crew members. - fell, crying and clutching his arm. His friend coming to his side. Red, on the other hand, didn't react as the others looked around, unable to tell where the shot came from, they were so focused on Henry being hurt. It was a good thing, perhaps, Isabel had loved books of mystery. For with the knowledge Isabel had gained from such interesting books, Jazz knew just where to look, looking at Ray as he sprinted. "Follow me," she ordered before she broke into a run right there after him. Perhaps he was her Captain Ray, perhaps he wasn't. Either way, that bullet was too close for her to not call it an insult. And Captain Red did not like insults. As they came to an alley, she smiled and sent a few men ahead of her, and wasn't surprised that one was torn down as the next was imparted some serious injury. The next two, on the other hand, came close after them, and one near had a heart attack when Ray pointed the gun at him, and they all heard a 'click' in the thundering silence that was their field of battle. As he threw it at them, those two aimed their guns as Jeez came into the Alley, two more following behind, their own shot guns raised. "You may be able to dodge one bullet, sir, or perhaps two... But, I'll say if you join my crew, I can make a live use of you," she purred out, knowing she was looking at Captain Ray. He was quite famous for his use of multiple guns, usually having made them. She did believe she could make some use of him. He had evacuated the town, meaning he wasn't a complete idiot or bastard, at the least. Perhaps he was like her - trying to protect something, only he was doing so on a scale that was smaller and more contrite. She didn't know, and unless he chose to join her, she didn't care. After all, a dead man had so few uses. Usually quite... Messy ones. Uses that she preferred to leave be, out of respect, perhaps. She looked at the captain, a spatter of blood of the man she'd killed before he'd shot Henry sprinkled across her cheek and petticoat. She did not seem bothered by it, at least for the moment. Furthermore, she was more concerned with the cornered Captain before her, after all, he could dodge a bullet or two, perhaps and so could she. But, why take the risk? Ray was cornered, perhaps, but he wasn't out of options. He rapidly kicked over a stack of crates in the way, using it as an effective way to maximize his chances of blocking the bullets. A duck, a front roll, he sprung back to his feet and started to sprint. Ray was at his top that day, and the reason why was how he was able to keep up with the rapid movements that all her men did. And so, why should one remain predictable? Being able to guess what will happen next makes the game too easy. Ray barely stayed in a single place, using his momentum at full capacity to jump on the alley's wall, jumped on the opposites and came back down a few feet from Red. He rolled forward with the landing, using the roll to grab the pistols he needed and as the roll ended, he curled back on his feet and extended his arms and pulled the triggers. The shots took both men behind his in opposite shoulders. Ray had a grin on his face, which Red saw for clearly for a full second or 2 as he shot the men behind her. Ray was still on his adrenaline rush, letting go of his pistols and ducking to dodge possible any shot or strike at the same time. "Show me why I should follow your orders!" He exclaimed as he rose back to his feet like a spring, cutlass in hand and slashing as he unsheathed. "One doesn't get the respect of Captain Ray Far lane by blowing up his harbor and shooting at his men." He said seriously once the slash was complete, whether she had gotten out of his way. 1 pistol and on rifle shot; a cumulative total 2 bullets were left on the man. He had already burnt through most of his weapons. It's not looking in my favor... We'll see what she can do, and then we'll negotiate... Ray thought to himself. ((What do you know, I found a plug in! ’D))"I'm liking him more and more," she murmured as the men besides her dodged him. One succeeded with a graze on his arm, the other, however, was caught in the arm and through the ribs. He would not last long. She herself side stepped his slash, smiling herself at his words. She wasn't looking for respect, after all, which he claimed to have none for her. The way he scrambled however, told her she had at least a toe in to his fears. She raised her gun, pointed towards the sky Mohave her remaining men hold back, which made them withdraw watching him carefully. With his state of dress and his sword drawn, after favoring his guns so, she figured he was low on his guns and AMO to use. Perhaps even out. After her men backed off, she drew her own sword - a fencing weapon of hard steel, it had belonged to an officer. She smirked as she thought of the man, he was still in the bowels of the cargo ship, with his men who she would use to rebuild the harbor she had ruined. As she drew her sword, her eyes met his, "Well, Mr Far lane... I know you are good with a gun..." She dropped the barrel pistol she held, and her grin grew wider as it went off on hitting the ground, using that distraction to go for him with her own sword. "Let us see your skill with a sword!" She aimed the point of her rare sword for his chest, a rapier was not meant for slashes after all. If he deflected her attack, she would dance behind him with a twirl, and use the opportunity to slash at his back. The pointed tip of the rapier would at worst scratch his back with a superficial wound, and at least tear a hole in his shirt should it make contact with him. If he defended instead, their swords connected at the hilt while they battled wills of who would back off first and give advantage to the other. She would force the issue, pulling a small and hidden gun from her coat, pressing the small silver barrel of the lady's gun against his bared best. The slow small click of the hammer would seem as loud as the bells he rang before in the world made of their battle. If he dodged, she would not stay close to allow him a swipe again at her. Dashing away and father into the alley. "Come now, come how! I expected more fun than this, Captain," she would tease him then. "If it's a duel, I just want to point out that I'm even better with a weapon than any of the ones you've seen yet. Said weapon is not on me. And so this duel is in your advantage..." He said in a very laid-off way, a roll of his shoulders accompanied it. Then the sound of gunfire, the pistol she dropped to cause the distraction. He chose to duck under her rapier, moving aside a little to dodge it completely. As she took off, Ray sprung back up in a leap forward and thus was only a foot feet behind her. "Would you really want those pretty clothes of yours to get cut?" He retorted and grabbed the last pistol he had on his, slipped in the back of his pants under the vest. He pointed it at her while they were running and pulled the trigger. Ray wasn't aiming for the head. Though it was awfully close, he'd hope she'd stop if one of her shiny earrings were to be shot through and through. He shot the ruby on her right ear, scattering it in shards. The shooter then stopped his cadence, throwing the pistol aside and looked at Red"Why did you come here? What do you want of this small town? These little games are nice, but I'd like it not to be a habit." He asked. He changed his weight for the rifle on his back to tilt closer to his left hand and into reach while he kept his cutlass in his right hand. "I don't care about the ruby, I'm sure you'll find another one. Shouldn't be hard for Jezebel the Red. Worse case, I'm sure I raid a few military ships and I got you a set even bigger. I just don't go for the shiny stuff" He obviously lied of not going for shiny objects. Who could call themselves a pirate and not search for gold and other shiny and valuable artifacts? But at the moment, it didn't really matter. He wanted to know her reasons to harass his small island. "Clothes are replaceable," she told him, her words sharp and snapping, "My men you've effectively killed are not." She moved to dodge the shot he aimed, and gasped as he shot her earring clean to pieces. A few shards pierced her skin, along her neck and cheek and one going into her shoulder rather painfully, even for such a small thing. She glared at him, "That... Was my favorite set of earrings." They were her first set... The first decadence she'd been allowed... She glared at him, he really had made her angry. She took a few steps further from him, her hand reaching to the sting in her neck. Oh, that smarted..." I'm here for your stores," she told him, growling as she scraped a nail across her neck, blood dripped from a place there where she removed a ruby shard, throwing it away from herself like the thorn it was as far as size was concerned, the thing glittered in the torchlight with her blood. "If that scars... I am taking it out of your hide," she said with a growl. "And if you would look at us, I am sure you would see we are quite the same in many ways. The only difference is decisions and death." She left that riddle there, moving on, "The Empire cares nothing about these islands, and the pirates that govern them in truth - you included, are practically no different. If the King wants them so much, he will have to pry them from my cold and dead fingers beneath the sea. Your stores of guns and ammo will gain me a boon or more in that goal..." And the trade of illegal fire arms would be sure to bring enough to gain the eastern islands the food they were needing for sure while she fought King Fernando over them. "And I think that this place has lived in decadence long enough," while other islands went hungry or without the defenses they needed against Pirates and the Empire's own pilfering. She had her ship and beautiful things that she wore and that decorated her cabin, for sure. But a person in power needed their sanity, even if it was scarce, and she held onto those things as if they were the salvation every sinner should seek. "See, now. Think of it. The men that you and your men shot are also irreplaceable. Because those men were also villagers who decided to hop on a shit with me. People who now have grieving families. And as a fellow pirate, you should know that it's finders keepers out here. I take care of those who decide to sail with me. In this case, this island. Not my fault you just didn't propose of joining forces, I would've shared." He added with a shrug, back to his laid-back self, resting his sword and rifle on his sides. "I know we're quite alike. Most pirates are, deep down. Except the ones who are in it just for the shiny stuff. And power... Hmm, that does reduce the list quite a bit..." He added, pondering on his own thought for a moment." And don't compare me to the king. I'm just giving him what he had comin'. I'm just enjoying it while I tear down their military. Furthermore, I'd share, if I had any to give. You'll look at our resources, and you'll see that we may have plenty, you do know how some of those can get pretty scarce sometimes... There's not enough for 2 islands, but one is well-kept with what we got." He pointed out to Red. In truth, he hadn't had much luck in the past few weeks and resources were still in a good condition, but some would need a filling in the upcoming month or so." Look. What if... you took me and left the island alone? Don't leave the people here helpless. They are ignored by the king, you take away their guns, they don't have anything to defend themselves against the military. You'd let these people aside and that would seem like you'd fit in the crowd as well..." He noted, fidgeting with his blade, swinging it limply one side and another, spinning it with the wrist... "If you think I believe you had shared - you're a dumber pirate than I thought," she said. She well remembered that lesson, one of her few mistakes. Opp was the only one with her to survive that debacle. Asking a pirate to share was not a good idea - they were just as like to stab you in the back for your gold as just to claim your life for another notch on their belts. "As for 'taking you' and leaving the island... Well, what would I do with you? And if I leave the island be, it will gain no protection from me. No, I want this place, and it will be safe, I can promise you. But I need it. I need it to finish what I was born to this world to do. So I will not let it be," she told him. She was actually impressed with herself that she'd taken the island so easily. It would take some work, but she knew just how the harbor could be rebuilt so it would not be so easy again. She wouldn't leave the place to rot, but she knew just where the guns and supplies that the town didn't need could go to offer the best reward to her little rebellion and those it represented. "So with that in mind, even if you did give yourself to me, just what would I do with a former captain? I could betray Opp. Keep him at my side longer and risk his dagger in my back. Or I could take you for him as I agreed, and risk your blade as well. You may have your uses, but of what use will you be to me if your steel is in my rib cage?" She pressed her fingers into her petticoat, pulling her lady's gun from it. A small and petite thing, made for only one pretty shot. She aimed it at him. "You may interest me and be of use, but unless you can explain to me why I want you - why I really do - you had best say your prayers because I will end you here and now and be done with it." Ray sighed and stabbed the cutlass beside him. "Want a list of why I am useful on a ship? I am a great gunner, a good swordsman, I can repair guns and cannons with my eyes closed, we share a common enemy, I am a wrecking ball on the ocean and in battle. And if I can see clearly-" At every point, he lifted a different finger, listing off the reasons why Ray Farley was a man worthy to sail. He looked up and took a peak where his ship was. "And what I just thought proved to be true, you were planning on taking the Bullet's Edge. Since you pretty much smashed every other boat there except the largest one. I'm no idiot. I know that ship like the back of my hand. Furthermore, I know exactly every single trick the ocean can throw at us because I've been sailing since I was a child. Furthermore, I built that ship. Bet it would be handy on a ship. A man that knows exactly everything, that still has the plans for ship as well. I have every single plan made for that ship. I know exactly what you need as ammo, and where you're going to find it. Furthermore, I know the potential the has, I've seen what she can do. As I said earlier, we fight a common enemy. Think of ravages we could do if we worked together. The military would never have seen anything like it. The king's head could roll to our feet if we'd want it to." He paced a little as he explained." Afraid that I stab you in the back? You got my whole family and friends hostage right here, right now. Everyone living on this island won't be able to go anywhere, you destroyed every boat they could use. You plan on keeping this island in check, I do anything wrong, and you could easily kill everyone here. Isn't it right? And to even prove it, hand me a dagger. I only have a cutlass." Ray proposed waving a hand towards her. He looked at her directly in the eyes, not an ounce of malice in his expression. The man was dead serious of everything he said. She glared at him for his whining words, one's worth wasn't proven to her by words alone, and she'd never seen him work. Heard, seen a little of his fighting style, but... How good was he really on a ship? And trust him with a dagger when she knew not his real intents... Well, that was deliciously dangerous. She needed to stay on her toes, and with Opp gone... Well... Her toes... And no other part of her would be kept on guard. Hm, hm, hm... "You really will be either useless for my intents... A real diamond in army horde... Or shoving a dagger in my heart the most opportune chance you get," she told him with a dour look before grinning like a mad woman, "Hm... Two bad outcomes out of three... I love it." She drew a decorated dagger out of her petticoat and tossed it for him to catch, still in its sheath, "Do me a favor, dear, and use that blade if you do. I do so love the detail on the hilt... It'll look lovely between my ribs." With that, she turned and waved to one of her remaining good men below, the attack - or at least the deadly part of it - was off. Once word rang through, only captures would be made. "You can give up on keeping the Bullet's Edge, Farley. She is a beaut, for sure, but she's too armored, and I have no desire to move my things. Opp is smarter than he looks, and he won't take a betrayal nicely. I'd hate to see your town suffer him without that ship under his boot," she said before she went to the street, "Now are you going to be a good cabin boy and show me what I came here for or are you going to be shoving that in my back here and now?" She looked behind herself at him, her honey brown eyes all too mirthful. The man caught the ornate dagger with his index and middle finger. With a twist of the fingers, he separated the weapon from its sheath. "The simple reason that she has such heavy steel armor at the front is simple. I sharpen it and using its quick speeds, I smash through ships. You need to know how to take the wind right to use a ship to its full extent... Such a shame, she'll never cleave a ship again..." Ray simply said as he walked back to his cutlass and sheathed it with his free hand. "Let me guess. You don't believe in a blood oath, do you?" He asked, lifting an eyebrow to her as he passed by her, heading towards the buildings near the docks. The inn had most of the supplies, though the rest could be found in the market. There was some metal there as well, but Ray had a good amount at his lair, where he used them for work whenever he was on shore. He was still playing around with the dagger and sheath in his hand. "Oaths are pretty, it's actions that prove to be beautiful," she told him, moving with him through the town. As they moved, his men were being tied up instead of killed, which she hoped would please whatever hero complex she suspected him of having. She didn't seem bothered at all by how he played with the dagger she had given him. "And don't be so sure your Bullet will never have another victim... My purpose isn't stealing other pirate's treasure. It's just a fringe benefit," she told him lazily as she looked over the supplies at the inn, moving with him to the market. She noticed something as she worked there however, and she went to him, holding up one of his hand maid guns that one of her men had passed her without him seeing. "So, where do you make these? It would be a pity to take a craftsman without taking his tools aboard my ship," she said, holding it between her index fingers and thumbs, like some precious little jewel, which reminded her, "MMM... And I wouldn't mind seeing any pretty little China things you have either." With that, she flipped the gun, not quite throwing it at him, but it was certainly thrown in his general direction for him to catch, her voice taking a tone of distaste as a man from her crew came their direction, speaking to Ray, "You owe me a pair of earrings." And then, she was talking with the man - a runner. "Tell Opp to be patient. I want to look over the ship before we do anything else in that direction," she told the man after he whispered something in her ear. " And how exactly do you intend to carry such heavy supplies? If you want crude metal, you should've said so. Though, I'm sure you have spare parts aboard somewhere, I'll take care of packing myself. Looking for gold and jewelry, Whatever you find in the bank is what we got. I sell most of it and get raw materials that we need for the village. We were the only ship that used the harbor, except the fishing boats. We got the gold, we went to other towns and loaded up there. This island isn't exactly on anyone's way." Ray explained. "But if you really want to get men up there and carrying metal, I'd prefer to be able to pack first. You can't exactly show up there without knowing where you're going." the ex-captain also added. He snapped the blade and sheath shut. "However, my men know the way. They could be able to do the hard labor while I pack. You already own the place, why should you worry of its inhabitants?" "Rome wasn't built in a day, we won't be leaving this place before the end of the week. Plenty of time to get men to move about," she told him, looking at the gun that he never caught, seeming to get bored for a moment. "The bank has treasure? Hm... I think we should go there first..." She raised her fingers to her ear, pouting, and giving him a small glare, "Those were my favorite earrings." Her voice had a small growl, but then she waved at him, "Lead the way." Ray sighed, "Crack the safe open, you'll find enough gold to buy yourself a bigger pair. There might be a pair there that we haven't sold. Just remember how close those earrings were to something a little more vital. Like your head, or your throat. But what use would Jezebel the Red have if she were dead?" He asked with a cheeky grin as he passed by her, continuing into the town. They were near the destroyed harbor by now. "I told you. We share common enemies. I'm no use to you dead, nor are you any use dead to me either." He added with a shrug. He kicked a pistol out of his way, sending it skidding across the cobblestone. It didn't take very long to reach the bank. Rate didn't enjoy the fact that some of his men could see him following under Jezebel. He felt like he had betrayed them, when he had simply tried to avoid bloodshed. And he hadn't given up on the island. He'd get it back, someday, just not today." Soo... I'm guessing you're going to want me to open the safe. However, I don't have the code. Unless you plan on blowing down the door, we would need the banker, who has evacuated the town and headed for the hills of this island. You leave the people alone, they'll return to their normal lives, deal?" Ray asked after taking a few steps inside and turned to Jeez. "At least, you now know where to go to find the bank. His rhyme made her lips twitch, but right now, she didn't want to smile. She wasn't done pouting about her earring. "Close enough. But close doesn't count," she told him, running a finger along the stone and wood walls they passed while they walked. She was surprised he would pay so little heed to an object he created. It made her reminisce for a moment as they walked, making her seem to ignore his words of common enemies and the uses of them both. She leaned against the wall just inside the door inside the bank and looked at him, "I told you before, we aren't leaving for a week. My men need shore leave, and I'm sure yours will love to hear about how you plan to slit my throat before they stop their talk. I want to be sure Opp settles in as well. He needs to be settled, if he's to keep this place safe." She looked at Ray then, "And the people will return to their lives, but until things are over as they will, I cannot promise their lives will be normal - nor will I. Promises that can't be kept, should never have been made at all." "Fine. Wait here, I'll be returned with the towns people within 15 minutes. I'll try to make it fast." He simply said before dashing out the door. He quickly bolted around the building and into the town. Furthermore, he dashed for the church tower again. Furthermore, he rang the bell 6 times, 2 rings near each other. Furthermore, he knew that the church was heard very far into the island, far enough for the villagers to know what that signal meant. Some were confused, but headed towards home nonetheless. The signal meant both enemies in town and return. It was the first time people heard that one, though they were aware of its existence. Ray had done some round-ups in the village to explain the different rings to everyone in case of emergency. The man proceeded to head for the people and find the banker, Beryl. Once he found him, he explained the situation and led the banker back to where Jeez was told to wait. "Here, got the banker, the townsfolk are returning to work, if they turn on you, punish the ones who attacked, but no innocent. People here don't like when there isn't a reason why that person died." Ray warned before he sat down in one of the chairs lingering around and leaned back in the chair, keeping a foot on the table. "Take your time, captain" He added with a faint teasing tone in his voice. She smiled, sauntering up to the table, "If you think I'm going to go into the safe without you, little Ray... You're mistaken." She tugged him up by his shirt. She wasn't going to get locked into a vault, not without a sure way out. The people wanted their dear Ray free, she was sure, so the only way to be sure she remained free till she was off the island was to be sure he was only free when she was.

Sails and Ropes (SweetRevenge X Milanthe)|rating:4.0

Journey to Virelis (Cylian997 and BloodRedRomeo)

“See you later,” Kirby Flynn said to his fellow students as he stepped out of the changing room and into the lobby. He paused for a moment to stretch, feeling the satisfying soreness of a workout well done. However, he wasn’t doing a workout that most nineteen-year-old men engaged in. He was a dancer. And not just any kind of dance. He did ballet. Had been for a decade at this point and he loved it. Always had. In fact, it was this ballet studio that had been the deciding factor for what college he would attend. Stepping out of the building, he could feel the cool autumn breeze rustle his clothes while he took a moment to admire the brilliant evening orange the sky had become. It was a beautiful day. And he knew there wouldn’t be too many more. Winter was coming, no matter how much he wanted to stop it. The studio was a bit away from campus, making it a twenty-minute walk to his dorm. All to short on a day like today, but all too long when the snow did hit. Then he thought about school again and sighed. The best thing about ballet was how easy it was for him to lose himself in it. A world of nothing but beautiful music and elegant movement. But now he had to return to reality. Cold, harsh reality. Kirby was a very typical college freshman. A guy who had done well in high school and gone to college right afterward because, well, it was what you did. He didn’t really have any field of study that he was passionate about. He had subjects he liked more than others, but nothing he could call a true interest. His favorite things were gaming, dancing, and cooking, but none of those were things he wanted or was able to make a career out of. He was just a single young person looking for direction, just like countless others like him all around the world. But he wasn’t too negative about it. He knew that something would eventually grab his attention. He’d just need to keep looking for it. While these walks were perfectly fine in the spring and summer, where the shops gather countless customers and the air is crisp and clean. Now the sadness and ennui of the fall and winter take away from the energetic strip of the city. Kirby could look out and see businesses closing early, the sun settling much earlier than before. There were no couples outside now, only the people with nothing to do out and about. As the wind continued to blow, and the leaves flew away like seconds on an hourglass there was something that caught him in the corner of his eye. On his way back to his dorm he noticed a new little shop open. It was certainly eclectic in terms of its decor, was it Japanese? Was it African? Was it Egyptian? Kirby recognized all of these influences without as much as a glare. Yet, there was no one else on the streets that were disturbed by store. Almost as if no one else could see it. The sign itself was something he couldn't even read. Then the name changed. That was an interesting-It changed again? The sign seemed to cycle through languages every thirty seconds, almost as if it was looking for someone to be able to read it, but still, not a single person was bothered by it. It was almost as it this place didn't exist. The colors and the fonts continue to cycle through like a slot machine, but eventually the name flipped to English and Kirby was finally able to read it." The Starfield Emporium." Kirby was fascinated by this strange store that lay before him. That in itself was strange. His logic told him that he should be terrified. That he should report this to somebody, anybody. Yet he didn’t. Instead of fear, he felt only curiosity. Glancing both ways, Kirby crossed the street, dashing outside crossing points wasn’t something he often did, but he couldn’t resist this shop’s allure. Standing outside, he took a much closer look at the wolf ensemble gathered here. Kirby had seen many elements taken from other cultures due to his hobby of gaming, yet he couldn’t even recognize everything he saw in this shop. And as he looked, it became clear there was only one acceptable action that he had left. He entered the store. As Kirby entered the store the door quickly locked behind him and even worse, the door knob disappeared. It wasn't some cute little magic trick, Kirby physically saw the door knob disappear. Inside the store he saw all kinds of items that should be impossible! There was a giant sword in a stone, a floating planet in a jar and a puppy Erebus in a kennel. The dog was napping, but he was only to see a few inches ahead of him as he walked along. That was until the lights were suddenly turned on. The lights turned on and illuminated an impossible space. There were countless items as far as the eye can see. There were no light bulbs either! The lights only appeared and in the back of this warehouse there was someone who stood in the light. As this person stood there Kirby noticed that they were rather tall. The next time he blinked this person was in front of them, and they were floating despite having six pairs of wings. This being seemed female, this was obvious by the titanic pair of breasts in front of him. The woman wore a skin tight suit of both red and gold, the kind of which he had never seen. Her golden blonde hair shone so much that gold might never have the same luster anymore. She glared down to him as Kirby heard an explosion of voices in his mind. Like the sign before this, he heard countless languages, some that he recognized and others that sounded completely alien. As this being continued to bombard him with sound the pressure around his head felt like a car that continuously ran over his head over and over again. Remorselessly, this being continued to probe through his head with countless voices and languages until finally, in a moment of sublime bliss he heard one simple word." Hello. My name Israelis, I am a guardian of reality. Welcome." Her voice sounded, cool, majestic and calm. As if she were some divine being. Was she a divine being? Kirby stared at the woman before him completely awestruck. She was absolutely stunning in a way he struggles to even comprehend. He had never seen a woman so beautiful. And his eyes couldn’t help but staring at that divine cleavage. Truly, she was something else. He was certain that if God’s and goddesses were real, she would have to be one. It took him sometime to recover from the experience of meeting her. It was like his entire life had be redefined by the past few seconds. But he couldn’t say anything. He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. He was practically choking on his own voice. Finally, after some trouble, he managed to speak in a weak voice.“Hello,” he spoke nervously. “I am Kirby Flynn.” That was all he managed to choke out. He almost sounded like he was apologizing, like he was so unworthy that just being in her presence like this warranted some sort of massive sin. Sibelius seemed to stare in Kirby's general direction, there was something about this glare that spelled some kind of dread. She soon waved her hand over Kirby and for about 10 seconds. Kirby died. He had no knowledge of what happened, but then he was suddenly able to see again, and he was perfectly alive. She waved her hand and out appeared a table; the table itself was made of a pure white marble with golden highlights. She then made chairs appear and even some delightful little snacks. There were various cookies on top of a warm plate on the table. As her hand remained extended she poured him a cup of coffee, and she then reduced her size to something a bit more manageable for a human; about 5'9. And that only had her curves more intense. Her breasts remained as swollen and heavy as ever. With how thin her clothing was they seemed to defy the laws of physics and remained perfectly in place. Her stomach upon closer inspection was smooth and clean. Her waist filled out as Kirby saw just how wide her hips were. And even how her butt and thighs filled out. Her body looked like something one could be lost in for hours. Kirby saw from where he stood, her skins supple smoothness could put velvet to shame. She took a seat and slowly crossed her legs, for a moment Kirby saw deep within her thighs at her center that was only blocked by what seemed to be a thin layer of tightly placed fabric." I apologize for doing that to you Sir Kirby. Would you mind having a seat please? We have some things to discuss." She spoke directly into his mind again but this time it was much more pleasant, like a normal speaking voice. Still, her voice reverberated like a trumpet but at least it didn't pierce his mind anymore. Kirby awoke from his temporary death with a shock. He was aware of what had happened, even if he had no memory of it. He somehow knew that was what happened. Yet despite having just been killed by her, one look completely eliminated any hard feelings that he felt. Her beauty was too much for him to be angry at. And when she apologized, he almost felt like she was taking it too far. In his mind, he couldn’t see how such a minor thing warranted her apology. Shakily, he stood up, realizing now that his six-foot frame actually made him taller than her. He quickly hunched over, some instinct in him telling him that being taller than her was wildly inappropriate. So he took his seat, careful to remain humble in his posture.“Thank you,” he found himself saying to her, like her attention was some sort of treasure. He had no idea where this instinctual deference was coming from. He wasn’t a confrontational person, but it’s not like he just rolled over to everything everyone said. Furthermore, he had gotten used to needing to take a stand throughout his life. But there was something about the woman, no, this goddess, that made him act this way. "Please, these are some of the best cookies in all reality." She pushed the plate forward and her tone became a little more playful as she even enjoyed the cookies herself. There were many choices, while they looked like simple snicker doodle cookies, they each had varying colors. She took a sip of her coffee and again looked at his general direction. "For better or for worse you have been selected by The One Above All. I again apologize for how fickle it is. But I have to tell you, that today is the last day you will ever see of your old life." Sibelius actually seemed quite sad by this prospect, as if she had some sort of feeling for the fleeting lives of mortals." Reality is a fickle thing, it is a war that never seems to end. Across the bending of time and space some of those universes are lost. While some are thriving and some, like your world, are so mundane they are beneath the notice of such beings. If even 5 of these beings were to attack your home an effort by your whole world would be like an elephant crushing a paper tiger. A futile effort. However, there is a hidden benefit to such things. Because your bodies are so unpolluted by the forces of quintessence they are powerful beans for it. And among the 7.4 billion humans you have the highest potential to benefit from this. The rest of your world are mere fetuses while you are tottering around like an energetic three-year-old." She takes a moment to readjust her position which only gave Kirby another look down her legs. Even how her thighs fell upon of each other gives off the impression of how subtly soft and supple she must be." I have taken the time to examine you down to your core and I have the perfect tool to give you for where you are going. The one weakness you have is that the quintessence of other worlds would never bend to your will. So I have to give you a tool to assist you. This is a divine tool, but I cannot tell you how to use it. Only you can figure it out. But at least you do play some video entertainment. You can work it like that." Sibelius brings a small box over and presents it before Kirby. She opens the box to reveal a necklace or what looks like some sort of lizard tooth. "This is The Fang of Forward; The Crusher of the Skies. When you put it on your journey will begin. So if you have any questions or comments, please state them now before you place the necklace on." At her behest, Kirby took a cookie from the plate in front of him. As she had promised, it was incredible. But somehow he struggled to experience the taste fully. He was too focused on the woman in front of him. As she spoke, his mind was somehow completely focused and completely distracted. He was listening to her and having every word lodged into his memory. But at the same time, his mind was focused on how truly beautiful she was. He wanted everything about her. He wanted her on a deep, primal level. When she offered him the necklace, he picked it up. He considered wearing it right then and there. After all, she had given it to him. But that wasn’t enough. He had something he needed to know. It was the most important thing in the world to him.“Will I be able to see you again?” he asked her, more strength in his voice than his first words. He was still maddeningly fascinated with her, but at least learning how to speak in her presence. "Of all the things to ask. But I am afraid not, this is my part of the domain, you are one of my rare guests that I see every 200 years. So this is our last meeting for the both of us. It is why I can lament the loss you are facing, even if you haven't realized it yet." She gave him a little giggle as she picked up another cookie. And the richness of the cookie was the part that might have been the most baffling part. The buttery goodness of the cookie melted in the warmth of his mouth and covered his tongue with both bold sweetness and a distinct warm punch of cinnamon. There was another warm spice that helped add to the flavor, but he couldn't figure it out. Wait... he did! There was something akin to cardamom for that warmth." It is why I try to be as warm as I can be, even if human emotions are very foreign to me." She admitted, and it was the only time her distinguished nature took a small back seat, and she revealed a little vulnerability. Kirby looked at her with a look of horror. Not being able to see her again... he hated the thought. It was a feeling he had never known before. He couldn’t help but wonder if this was love. Whether or not it was, he spoke out, his passion leading him to object to her.“I hate that,” he told her, getting ready to put on the necklace. “I’ll find a way. I don’t know how, but I’ll do something to see you again. I can’t stand the thought of never seeing you again.” This bold declaration might be blasphemy for all he knew. But as he did, he stood up straight to look at her.“Until next time.” With that, he put the necklace she had given him. "It is a noble goal, but sadly it won't happen. But good luck if you manage to find a way to break the rules. Be safe Kirby." And when he put on the necklace Kirby was now pulled through a wormhole of sorts. His vision was bombarded by a psychedelic rush of colors, explosions events, faces, people, monster and so much more. His body felt as it he was freely floating yet again being crushed by some unknown weight. This continued until his vision turned black.~~~"Come Elisha! You can do this! You can figure this puzzle out." The ever curious young fox girl was busy. She was currently trapped inside a cave with no way out. See, Lisa is a treasure hunter, but not for the money but for the thrill. Her golden eyes darted around the room with boundless curiosity as her tails freely flowed along. Her snow-white skin gleamed against the bleak darkness of the cave. Furthermore, her silver-white hair almost seemed luminescent as it was visible in the darkness. While she was a little diminutive at about five feet tall, that made the rest of her look filled out by comparison. "I really need to get a new robe." She lamented as her growing bust refused to stay in place, her damn breasts even stopped her robe from covering even lower. It was so embarrassing!! "What is this? I thought one of my treasures was supposed to be here." There were several statues before her as she continued to look around. Her lithe form hid a steep agility that allowed her to bounce around with relative ease, her years of training also ensured that she was no easy fox to catch. Even if her curiosity got the better of her every now and again. And this was one of those times. Lisha decided to push around the statues. Maybe there was something about them, she thought. It was the only thing that was available for her to move. As she toyed with the towers the also realized that they rotated!" Maybe that was why no one figured it out..." Her eyes tried to not focus on the countless dried bones on the floor but... there were countless bones. The stink here almost bothered her sensitive nose but both her survival and her want of bragging rights among the other hunters pushed her on. It may have taken her an additional four hours but eventually figured it out and with it a portal opened when the four statues faced each other. They all shot a beam of light that pooled in the center and blew out so much wind that it broke through the cave to reveal an exit, but also it revealed a person... Kirby didn’t just appear out of the portal. He quite literally feels out of it. Luckily, his years of training had left him quite graceful. But even then he still struggled to stick the landing. He almost tripped on one of the old bones on the floor as he tried to right himself. The first thing he did was look around at the strange place he had been sent. A creepy cave with strange statues and a strange portal that he had just come through. This wasn’t the environment that he expected. Usually stories stated in a forest or a town. In fact, why was he so calm? It was strange that he wasn’t freaking out like he’d normally expect himself to. He imagined it had something to do with his Goddess. Killing him, bringing him back, telling him all those things telepathically. It could have an effect on a person. He was still confused, no question, but he wasn’t having a mental breakdown. It was as he thought on this that his eyes landed on the pale fox girl that was his fellow resident in this cave. He hadn’t expected to see anyone here. He also had no idea what to expect either. Furthermore, he stepped back, looking worried as he watched her carefully. Finally, he found the strength to speak. “Hello,” he said simply. Lisa looked on in amazement as the scene unfolded. She opened a portal that broke through a solid stone wall that brought in a person. A person? Lisa might have been curious, but she was not stupid. Every fiber of her being warned her, "stay away! Be careful." This person even spoke a language she did not recognize. Just what was that? Lisa cocked her head as her ears twitched to the sound of danger. The skeletons began to animate. It began with a soft rumble that turned into a roar of the dead." Heijrbigso (What the) heck odhhwohru (did I do?) I ruined wikeojeg." (everything!) Kirby could not explain it, but he was somehow learning the language. Lisa however bolted away as the prospect of this undead summoning demon was a problem. But how can she escape this??? In the meanwhile, Kirby saw things very differently. This was very much like the games he used to play. There was a heads-up display that had action bars that slowly filled. The more filled the bar was the closer it was activating. The real next question was though, "How would he fight back?" She was there, and then she was running away. He wanted to call out to her, but then he realized what was going on with the bones. It looked like they were moving. They were forming up into...skeletons? He jumped back, trying to put distance between himself and the bone piles. She had said something about ruining things. He was a bit lost, but he could only guess that this woman was some sort of necromancer. Something had told him he was going to end up in a battle. He just hadn’t expected it to happen so soon. The skeletons weren’t formed yet. Thankfully. That gave him time. Time enough to begin checking his new heads up display. His Goddess had mentioned something about gaming. Maybe this is what she meant. But he could muse over that later. He immediately began trying to use it, working fast to figure what as much of did as possible and, more importantly, find a way to fight. The groans only grew more and more abundant as the numbers of skeletons grew. There were at least five of them now. As the pressure continued to mount, with the skeletons glaring at him, he finally got an attack. His display flashed up with the following." Dragon Fang Thrust: Level 1." A punch that he did for some reason had a lot more power behind it. It was difficult to understand, but luckily Kirby was a strong athlete thanks to his ballet and his attack blew away at least four of the skeletons away. More of them continued to rise and a set of three symbols appeared on his display. An ice block, a thunderbolt and a tornado. And right now the tornado was lit up. He was surprised by what had just happened. He had expected the punch to do something more than usual, but that was far more than he thought would happen. Furthermore, he stood there in shock before pulling back his fist. If he could do that with his arms, just imagine what he could do with his legs. Still, this wasn’t over. He needed to adapt. Fast. Seeing the symbols, he tried to imagine what they could do. Deciding there was no other way to find out than by trying, he willed a switch over to the ice block before he prepared to perform another attack. He waited until a skeleton got close before striking out a swift kick to its chest while channeling the same power as before. As the skeletons continued to pour outside and leave the cave, Kirby's leg went through the air and another set of letters flashed over his HUD." Dragon Tail Slash: Level 1." It was not wind that followed his kick but icy shards that managed to chip and cut the bone of the skeletons. And with his kick Kirby noticed something odd. He was covered head to toe in blue dragon scales like an armor. Upon further inspection he was covered in thick, metallic looking scales. Yet, he felt like he weighed nothing at all. No, even less! He felt stronger all around. The bars over the skeletons were suddenly filling faster as their bones were forming into some sort of skeletal Goliath. So it was what he suspected. Those were the elements of his dragon attacks. By changing them up, he could do different things. Even more shocking was that kicking was actually a different skill than punching. It did make sense, it was just a thing he hadn’t been prepared for. Kirby was feeling fear, there was no doubt about it, but there was also a lot more at play. He was feeling an excitement unlike anything he had ever felt. And with these skills and systems... how deep did they go? The thought of finding out only made a smile creep across his face. Seeing the growing behemoth, an idea came to mind. If a kick was different from a punch, was an aerial kick different from a ground one? Luckily, his years of ballet had taught him how to jump. So he sprinted at the beast, switching over to the lightning symbol as he did. Once he was close enough, he did a spinning jump kick straight at the fiend. As Kirby jumped into the air and spun in the air with ease. As Thai skeleton grew into some mangled monster of maw and sinew: Kirby's armor shifted from blue to purple." Dragon's Lash: Level 1." This was odd. At the moment this activated it looked as if time stopped. No, his perception of time changed. The skeletons movements were sluggish as if it was in a quagmire. And with his training in ballet; swift and decisive air movements seemed simpler while he was in this form. When Kirby's kick finished, he cut through the jaw of the skeleton with ease. It felt easier than cutting through a perfectly roasted chicken. The skeleton fell backwards as it reformed into what looked like a catapult. The skeleton launched out a massive bomb of bones, and he still floated in the air... What could he do? If it hadn’t been for his sped up perception, he would certainly have been hit by the projectile. However, right now he had an opportunity to prevent that. It didn’t help that he was in an awkward position, still moving off of the momentum on his kick. Doing the best he could, Kirby twisted his body to get a better shot at the mass of bones flying at him. So he threw out another kick, but this time with the wind element. He hoped the blast would be enough to disrupt the projectile. Kirby was unfortunately a little unprepared for this attack. The ball of bone crashed into his body and exploded into countless tiny pieces. But the armor protected him well enough. On the upper right hand of his HUD he noticed a small heart and a bar. He saw his bar lose a decent tick of energy as he crashed onto the floor. As he was pushed through the debris his health bar continued to be chopped down. Kirby saw that his armor now had small cracks and chips as he endured the damage. He was still properly protected, but the catapult began to prepare another ball. Kirby needed a new plan. He pulled himself up a bit shakily. Some of his excitement was wearing off. Getting hit like that hurt, no matter how protective his armor was. Still, it wasn’t like it was over. He took long enough to take a deep breath, calming himself. Then he ran straight towards the catapult. Kirby was fast and, more importantly, agile. He had to be. His plan was that he could hopefully use his skills with his newfound perception to dodge an incoming attack. He also remained on the wind element, a special plan of his own. If it looked like he couldn’t dodge on his own, he’d use a blast of air to push himself out of the way. The little wind symbol in his HUD pulsated quickly as he ran towards the catapult. The bones continued to form into a pointy ball. The ball now glowed with a noxious green glow, and it began to stink. This attack was different from the last. He needed to get there quickly..." Hidden Skill: Dragon's wing flap." His armor shifted to a light green to denote the change in his element. Quite suddenly, with his next step Kirby cut the distance so quickly that he was now under the catapult! The magical machination was defenseless in this position. Kirby had one good clean shot to try and finish it off. The speed was so sudden that Kirby almost ran into it. Indeed, without his perception powers, he would have. But now he had a chance. He was too close to kick, so he had to rely on a punch. He dropped low, getting himself ready. Once again, his dance experience was coming in handy. Kirby had an excellent sense of his body weight and balance. As such, he was able to put all the force possible behind his next attack. Finally, he switched to ice, hoping this would be enough to stop the thing he was fighting. And so he threw his punch directly at its core. "Dragon Tail Slash: level 1""------------------------ 1"As Kirby pushed his fist forward, his newly acquired skill adapted itself to the fact that he threw a punch. But, almost as if his body was in tune with the armor, the attack adjusted itself and instead of releasing shards of ice, it released a solid block of ice that pushed through the giant undead machine. But there were two things that were interested in this situation. The first was on the heads-up display there was another bar under the bar for the tail slash experience. What was it for? But he had no time to think about that! The catapult exploded into small pieces as the toxic green blob was rapidly falling down towards Kirby, and he needed to find a way to move away from this situation and quickly. Without the protective barrier of bone, this ball was so toxic it was melting through the falling bone pieces. Kirby was shocked by what had just happened. It seemed he had more control over these powers than he initially thought. He could only imagine how far he could take this. But as much as he wanted to fantasize about all the ways he could adapt his new powers, he had to focus on something else first. Namely, the toxic splash. If he stood there, he was toast. He had to move fast. So he tried something. Instead of doing a thing and letting the system trigger the skill for him, he actively tried to trigger a skill on his own. He attempted to use Dragon Wing Flap to get away. While he was able to push out the skill, this time the skill actually hurt his body. He felt as if he hyperextended his joins as he pushed himself forward and slammed into a pile of bones. His heads up display showed a cool down bar for his Dragon Wing Flap. While he was able to use it safely in small intervals, if he pushed too much he would tax his actual body, and it could be dangerous. But at least he was alive and safe. But some of the skeletons did escape into the city and here is another question. How does he take the armor off?~~~~Sibelius remained in her quiet hallway as she reverted to her normal size. She floated towards the back and then casually walked through a wall. She walked down an empty hall devoid of all light, a tunnel so black even light could not escape. A tunnel where the pressure marred her perfect skin with ease. When she emerged from the tunnel her skin has be ripped off down to her second layer of muscle. Her skin hung as the viscera repaired itself rapidly. The mask that covered her eyes revealed that she actually had no eyes, it was only a mask to give mortals a semblance of normalcy. The room in question sported six magnificent statues and each of them depicted a beast. There was a green dragon, a red phoenix, a blue turtle, a brown armadillo, a purple snake and a black monkey. As Sibelius reached the center the stone pillars gained an ominous, prismatic hue as if they were now inhabited. She split herself six ways, so each pillar got their own private mediator. She soon began to speak." Welcome to you all, the Six Great Emperors. As the seat remains empty for the title of One Above All, I welcome you all to the grandest of all games. A game to control the divine quintessence that overrules all reality. For your pleasure I bring you your combatants. As you all know, we hold this contest every two hundred years to determine who is most suited to rule all reality and I as the final arbiter of this game maintain the honor and the sacred nature of the game. Each of you are only one victory way from being promoted to the highest of all seats. But let us see who we will be watching for the grand game." Above Sibelius's head an imagined of a person appears before them. "The Black Monkey: Shi gen. I present their avatarTakai Mukurowho wields Shi gen's Limitless Body as a divine artifact. " They showed a man with an unholy grimace, he was tall and hauntingly gaunt and covered in bloody bandages. He only had one glaring eye that stared out into the world without any feeling whatsoever. He was almost unnaturally tall as he stood at nearly 7 feet tall. In his starting area, he was tossed into a forest of ogres and by the end of it; the entire forest was flattened. The ogre king, a hulking monster who stood nearly twelve feet fall had lost his legs, his right arm and an eye. There were countless bodies of goblins, ogres, and other beasts haphazardly thrown about." So tell me." Munro spoke with a level of near unprecedented level of both apathy and boredom. He lifted the king with one arm to eye level, in the face of the king twisted in fear. There was true horror in the eyes of the king. The king wanted to run he wanted to just leave. If he could just live... No! The king violently takes a punch at Munro and Munro does not even move an inch. If anything he looked disappointed. "Was this everything?" His voice's low gravely rumble sounded much more unnerving when paired with his blank glare. The kind struggled as Munro swung the king by the arm so hard that all that remained of the ogre king was the arm Munro held onto. He dropped the arm and walked off." Oh boy, it looks like Shi gen got himself a good one again." The purple snake echoed out. Sibelius cleared her throat and continued. Right next to Sakai's face there were several stat bars. His strength and constitution were off the charts while his intelligence was extremely low. There was one more bar, the potential bar and Munro's potential was quite high. The gods all murmured among themselves. One bar that was specifically high was his quintessence bar." Mukuro comes from a universe where a war has destroyed the entire world. It is a sin he has to live with that he was the singular cause for the war. Because of, that the entire world was after him, yet despite the fact that the entire world tried to kill him it didn't work. He outlasted his entire planet until they all quit. Munro even managed to outlast my dissembling for .00078 seconds longer than every other contestant. His quintessence is highly tied to the domain of earth which allows him a varied host of skills. And with Shi gen's divine item that allows him unlimited access to his body's potential, he is a dangerous enemy. Truly my lords, he is an outstanding combatant. Our meeting went fine, but I can say that he might have a difficult time here if he does not learn to let go and accept help." The screen disappeared from Munro and moved on to the next one. The Sibelius in front of the red phoenix now spoke out." The Red Phoenix: Corona and her champion who wields the power of Corona's Tiny Sun:Sherman, Eternal Fire. Sherman is not just one dragon but seemingly multiple ones. Her mother was a tyrant of a dragon, Sherman was her newest progeny." A young girl who looked no older than thirteen stood in a mountainous hillside as she gave a dangerous glare off to the world. She has vibrant, almost metallic, pink hair. Her body was demure and lithe with creamy white skin. Her hips were hidden under her dress, but her spotless skin was exposed in some kind of sexy display. She has massively long ruby nails, a long thin tail and she had no wings. It was almost as if she was underdeveloped... Sherman's stats didn't even show up??" Hey!! Corona! Sibelius! What kind of shit is this!!" Shi gen quickly complained." My lords." Sibelius quickly interrupted. "Please allow me a moment to finish my story. Sherman is an amalgamation of dragons. Her universe is quite adapted in using quintessence, more so than any other universe. Sherman is a life form made from a family of dragons and therefore, even for me and my ability to disassemble, it was impossible to tell just where her skill lies. As I said, her family was captured and had unknown amount of experiments formed on them. Blood, bone, sinew, eggs, sperm; they were all taken and used to create an artificial dragon. Sherman is an artificial being made from dragon parts. The rich who made her gave her the original name of the lost child because of a sick joke. Sherman is unable to properly use all of her abilities yet. But I can only imagine the horror that a dragon amalgamation and a divine item can cause." She finished her story as Corona laughed. Sherman walked off into the distance but every she turned melted the stone. "If she were to come into her body and not allow her insanity to control her. She would be able to burn the world. The experiments done to create her left her as a husk without a soul, she was given no moral training and therefore sees the world as her play thing. She is a titanic 3-year-old."" You always make the riskiest plays Corona. If someone found your little warrior now, she is as good as dead." The green dragon spoke as Corona gave him a haughty giggle." Please Forward, like you are any better. Of all the people to choose, a normal human from a world without access to quintessence? I think you have to worry more about yourself." Corona responded." I always believe in the potential of normal humans. He will not let me down." Forward responded. Kirby was a bit dazed by the display he had just put on. Pulling himself out of the pile of bones, he immediately began to evaluate the fight. He had to learn what had just happened and how to use the knowledge to the best of his ability. If he didn’t grow, he would die. That much was obvious. This Dragon Wing Flap though, that was the most interesting of his abilities. That level of speed was incredible. He knew if he could master it, he’d be an absolute terror. Still, he needed to figure out what to do about this armor. He couldn’t spend his whole life wearing it. But before he could do that, he wanted to get away. If that necromancer EAS still around, disarming himself could be trouble. Kirby was unable to see anything around him, even if he focused his vision there was nothing but bones, dust and the green glob that was now melting through the floor. Who ever created all of those skeletons, they remained hidden. Still, what a wild ride so far. It was too bad he didn't have much time to think. There was still the situation about the armor. A little button on the lower left-hand side of his vision began to blink. It said "Action" on it. Upon closer inspection it opened up to a new mini menu. Currently, there was only 1 action there; "Armor On/Off". That was convenient at least. But it might be prudent to keep the armor on. But with the way out in front of him, it might be best to get moving. That was until his knees all of a sudden felt as if they were made of glass. None of the practice he had done for ballet ever hurt this bad. It was as if his knees felt like they were made of brittle, frozen rubber. He needed to get somewhere safe to recover. Even his cooldowns were cooling down a bit slower than before. Curse words flooded Kirby’s brain as he hit the ground. If there was one thing he knew he could do, it was work through pain. That was one of ballet’s fundamentals. Yet here he was, unable to stand. This would be a valuable lesson if he survived. The first thing he did was drag his body over to the nearest wall so he could sit against it. This way he would be able to keep a solid watch around him. He could at least punch something if it got too close. Next was some searching. He tried to open up two menus on his interface. The first was a detailed status screen, hoping that would give him a better understanding of what was going on. The second was a skill list. Maybe there was a healing skill he could use. It turns out that his HUD had two different displays. He was in battle mode, and now he was in touring mode. In touring mode he had many more options. But it seemed that, like his attack skills, he would have to explore the world and try to find skills to kill out his skill tree. As he looked over to his elements he sadly didn't have any healing skills, but he did have something decently useful. This reminded him a bit of Dungeons and Dragons. And the armor was almost like a magical girl transformation. How could this possibly be happening?" Soothing Cold: level 1"His hands were suddenly icy and cool to the touch. Maybe this might help him at least move? When his hands suddenly went cold, he was relieved. It was something, which was mark ably better than nothing. He used his hands to apply the cold to his torn up legs as best he could, taking solace in the soothing chill that ran through his limbs. Cold brought relief. At least to him, it did. But even as he treated himself, he did not let his guard down, keeping a careful watch around him. He wouldn’t let himself get ambushed in a situation like this. Unlike the other abilities Kirby has, this one has an ability duration. He was able to keep it up for about twenty seconds. Luckily that was enough to get him mobile. Still, staying in this area might not have been the best idea. But where would he even go? He had no map, no method to direct himself, he didn't even know where he was in relevance to this world. Maybe with a little more adventuring he could find something that could help him in that part of his journey. But he needed to walk first. But there was another little thing blinking on his HUD." Armor Active." It seemed there was a cooldown for when he was baled to switch between his normal form or his dragon form. It was lucky that his time finished filling up, but it could be dangerous. He chose to remain in his dragon form until he was sure danger was gone. He carefully stood up, feeling the stress in his leg with a comforting familiarity. With his mobility restored somewhat, he opted to head to the entrance that the skeletons had left from. He needed to see where he was. It would at least be more progress than staying in this dungeon. When he stepped out of the gave what greeted him was a sight beyond comprehension. He was on a floating mountain that seemed to be in the air by some unknown power. Waterfalls rushed down from the sky and fell down like rain. The sun shined from a distance as the vastness of this sight was almost overwhelming. There were trees that reached these lofty heights as the air's unique crispness filled his lungs with a kind of life he never knew possible. Every breath in he felt alive for the very first time, he almost felt this rush of life down to his cells. As his gaze continued to wander. Unique birds of a myriad of colors flew under the mountains he currently stood on. The grass itself felt softer than human hair. There were over 100 of these floating islands and now Kirby had to work on a way to get down. He was so high up he almost saw the stars out in space. How did that girl even get down?~~~~~"See, the real question here is who did Any pick for her avatar. No doubt someone she could bed later." Shi gen shouted impudently as the snake giggled with venomous danger." First off Shi gen, you need to remember that in this tournament you have only defeated me twice while I have defeated you six times. Beauty is its own power, lust its own power. There is no one more hungry for victory then one promised pleasures that would otherwise explode their minds. And one who has that at so much more are truly dangerous."" Great Emperors, I present to you The Purple Snake Enema's Venomous Fang:Verona Influx. She is from a world plagued by an onrush of demons. It was the kind of war that brought all of their reality to their knees. It was something that Enema almost had to handle herself. That was until Verona was born. The perfect child of even royalty, she is both high even and dark even. She singled handed stopped a near 3000-year war in only 150. Though her blood sweat and tears and for the love of the people she lives with, for the love of the child she lost. She fought." Verona is a stunningly beautiful woman, she stands proudly and beautifully with pristine ruby red hair and piercing emerald eyes. Her body has been trained to perfection, her thighs hide the power of a swordsman and the elegance of a royal. Her even ears were perfectly in tune with the world around her. Furthermore, her smooth skin was shown off and her ample breasts were held in place by what seemed to be magic. She was dressed elegantly in skin tight, sheer leggings and a matching coat. Her stats were displayed quite highly, her dexterity and charisma are actually her most prominent stats. Her intelligence was rather high as well with wind as her primary element." Vile fiends." Verona commands with the authority befitting of a royal. "I promise you, that I will eliminate your mortal coils. Prepare yourselves!" Verona was brought in via a group of evil casters who hoped to steal the treasures of the cave. In the middle of these casters casting their spell, Verona was already ahead of them and cleaved them with total ease. The only difference here was that they did not even bleed out, the blade, a smooth red Katina with a toxic green edge, the men all fell down, and their bodies already began to decompose. She put her weapon away as for a moment her sword shifted to another color." I hope you worms cross my path again, so that I may crush you." And with that she ran off." Verona dear." Corona speaks rather cautiously. "Has she already figured out the overdrive state of her weapon?" None of the other gods spoke as now they were obviousness worried about something." Who knows Corona. Maybe she did maybe she didn't." Enema giggles as the turtle chortles gleefully. "Now what do you think Pain? Do you think you can even slow me down?" The blue turtle lights up for everyone to see." While you may think that is cute. There is one thing that matters in this situation. Quintessence. And I have that in spades." Pain chortles like the rumbling of the sea." Great Emperor's I present you The Blue Turtle Pain's Ocean Shell:Skills. A merman princes whose people were hunted to extinction and then used as a human's play thing. In her vengeance she escaped and ate other magical creatures until she became an unparalleled being of destruction. She has now gone after every group of mermaid hunters and hunted them to extinction for their transgressions." Skills's eyes held a haunting level of malice as she massacred a fishing village by raising a tsunami to destroy them. Her evil cackle was heard for miles around, Her pure blue eyes held a distinct hint of madness. Her long shark tail moved swiftly and when she landed on land they turned into human legs. Skills was blessed with wide, child bearing hips as she happily skipped along the dead village. Her highest stats were intelligence and wisdom with a very low constitution. However, Pain's item protects her weak body. As a merman she has control over water quintessence." This woman's madness is a chilling display of humanity's power and the desperation required to win my great emperors. Truly, both of these competitors are worth their weight."" Now you can never hunt my people again." She walked by as she kicked a small dead child away. The armadillo just begins to laugh." Is that all you got?" The armadillo statue glowed. For several minutes, Kirby just admired the site. It was breathtaking. A world unlike any he had ever seen before. He almost felt that this view alone made that battle and losing his previous life completely worth it. After his break to admire the majesty of the sight before him, his brain returned to normal functions. He had to find a way down. But was that enough? Even if he did get down, what then? It’s not like he knew where anything was. He realized then he couldn’t stay out here. He had to go back into the cave. Furthermore, he had to find that girl. Maybe she could give him some answers. As Kirby looked out into the distance he would have to jump down these mountains. But how he could possibly do that? His knees felt better yes, but would his body be able to handle such a shock from such a fall? Kirby dud see from a distance the trees ruffle as a familiar pair of tails danced around through the forests below. At that moment something triggers on his HUD." Wind Vision: Level X"His eyes quickly shifted and all the wind and its currents became visible to him. This might be a means to help him down if he combined the right technique with this. When his skill activated, it took Kirby a moment to realize what he was seeing. After all, it wasn’t every day a person gained the power to see the wind. He tried to observe it at first. Then an idea crossed his mind. He switched over the wind element of his armor. He wondered if he had another mobility ability that could be used on the wind currents. Maybe he could ride them. And if he didn’t have any other skills, maybe Dragon Wing Flap could be used in some way. He needed to try. Kirby felt the adrenaline pump in his body, while might have felt invincible in the armor, if he fell from this height he would no doubt fall to his doom. But he needed to find a way. While he continued to focus, the wind currents began to change color on his HUD. From red all the way to blue and the blue ones were blinking. Was the armor warning him on how to jump through, still pulling off such a feat might not be that easy." Dragon Wing Flap → Dragon's Cruising Flight: LA.2"He only had to fall at over 100+ miles an hour in between usages. Not that big of a problem right? Kirby was able to walk through the air with the wind currents to help propel him. This was the best core work out ever. The burning of his stomach was soon going to be a problem. But at least he was able to reach a separate mountain with relative ease. Even if his knees still weren't the biggest fan of his movements. That had been a hell of a trip. Kirby was practically giddy with excitement. He had just flown. Okay, technically he hadn’t flown, just rode the wind current. But still, he was closer to flight than anything else any human he knew of. The emotional high alone took him some time to get over. Once he had regained his sense and stopped giggling like a school girl, he tried to look for the same tails he had seen down in the forest below. Once he found them, he planned to try gliding down to her. He could use the help. The shifting winds led Kirby deep into the forest and eventually into a clearing that led to a small village. It was a cute village, the houses were all made of rustic wood and the people were hardy county folk. The townspeople were if varying races and colors. Kirby spotted fox people, dwarves, elves and more There was a familiar fox girl there, and she shouted at the stop of her lungs." He is the demon that came out of the gate! When he emerged he summoned skeletons and other monsters." He couldn't explain it, but his brain adapted to language. Bit he was also now enemy number one as countless people went to surround him. When Kirby arrived in the town, it’s not like he expected a particularly warm welcome. However, he also hadn’t been prepared to be called a demon. Seeing the people start to surround him, he had to be prepared for whatever come. His first idea was to dismiss his armor. However, he quickly deemed that to be a terrible idea. His armor is what kept him safe and there seemed to be a cool down between taking it off and putting it on again. If that was the case, and they decided to attack, he’d be in serious danger. He could try to fight, but that had two problems. If they were as strong as normal humans back home, he might very well kill them. But he didn’t know what the baseline was in this world. They could all be substantially stronger, making this a major threat. He eventually came to the decision to just try to talk. “Hang on!” he called out, stepping away from them defensively. “I’m no demon. Just a human!” he continued, hoping they’d listen. Just as a preemptive measure, he switched over to the lightning element. The people all gasped in horror as this sudden change. What kind of wizard could transmute their armor so quickly and easily? The people all looked terrified, and the small fox girl fell to her knees as the sheer horror on her face said it all. She was going to become skeleton fodder. She would never be able to show p her sisters. Have a littler of her own. Or even a kiss. She was not going to allow this jerk to stop her! Lisa stepped forward and got into a fighting stance and glared directly at Kirby. She wads going to go fight him. His HUD warned him of an impending boss battle. The boss battle had one star next to it." I won't allow this to happen, I have to defeat you and get my mahatma!" Her tails all stiffened out in attention as her eyes sharped like a hunter tracking their prey. Her nails stood out as she picked up two daggers from the sides of her legs. Boss battle? Was she that much stronger than the skeletons? That didn’t bode well for him. Whatever it was, he needed to be careful. “Everyone, get back!” he ordered, assuming his fighting position. He’d really rather not kill her, but he might not be able to avoid it. His hope was to use low powered lightning to stun her. But he may have to adapt to whatever happened. Kirby prepared himself for an attack. His plan was to avoid her first attack and hit her with a fist of lightning. And if that didn’t work, he’d figure something out. As they prepared themselves Lisa dashed forward. She was fast he didn't even see her? Where did she go? All the people looked around as they wondered where the young fox girl could have gone. Kirby needed to be careful, maybe she was trying to trick him into a false sense of security? This tension made Kirby's heart go 100 miles a minute. He felt his heart put blood through his ears, his mouth went dry. Maybe there was some way he could try to find her and get the upper hand? Kirby couldn’t see her, but he had an idea. If she was moving, the air would move with her. And thus, he activated Wind Vision. If he could see her movements, he could have a better chance of hitting her. At least, that was the hope. He was able to focus his vision, the rest of the wind trails were slow, but one was extremely fast... almost too fast! She was already gone by over 40 miles. Just how did she over shoot a 20-foot distance by that much?"Ahh, ahh... there she goes again, without her mahatma she is essentially useless." One of the villagers exclaimed." So do we die? Try to fight him or swear allegiance?" Someone else suggested." What if we swear allegiance and then betray him?" Another person added. The villagers all decided to openly plot her plans. It seems that this village was far more used to Lisa messing up than expected." I mean, if he was so bad he could have just summoned skeletons. No doubt Lisa was just acting stupid." And with that the crowd dispersed and Kirby was left again without any help. And then it was over. Kirby looked around dumbfounded as he tried to figure out what had just happened. Whatever it was, he was grateful he didn’t have to fight the citizens or that crazy fox girl. When he was sure the danger had passed, he dismissed his armor. While it was light and comfortable, it didn’t breathe. Now alone in the village in his casual clothes of khakis and a tight black T-shirt, he started to walk through the village, looking out for anyone who may be able to help him. Or just someone who was friendly enough to talk to. Kirby powered down and revealed his normal form, and he felt the tension suddenly lift itself from the area. The people now seemed totally calm about him." Oh, he is an item user. That's rare around here. Most of us here are casters." One of the random dwarfs explained. "But I have never seen one quite like your self. But I guess welcome too-"A bone spear shot right through his eye and he fell in a heap. In the situation with Lisa, Kirby didn't notice that his boss ticker was still on. And now another star was added. Kirby still was unable to transform yet as more bone spears shot through and began to massacre the towns folk. The people once again run away in fear but this time it was much more serious. Kirby noticed that this town had no guardsmen, no walls or much of anything. This town was entirely defenseless." Welike this little town. We will have it." A woman comes out from the forest and stares at the town with an empty glare. She is wearing a smooth, silken black dress that grips onto her sexual curves like a glove. There was a long slit across one side of her dress that gave Kirby a look at her curvaceous body. Her breasts were barely able to be contained by the dress, with every step her body swung like an old grandfather clock and her breasts almost escaped every single time. Yet, her skin was an unnatural, deathly pallor. As if blood no longer ran through her corpse. The only colors she sported besides her murderous red eyes, which seemed to have some haunting detail, was her orange hair. Which, despite her skin looking dead, had all the luster of life." Lisha made this way to easy for me. We will use your body, and We will defeat the Queen!" An army of skeletons and zombies now emerged from the forest to attack the village and Kirby could only stare as his cool down bar continued to fill. Oh, god dammit. Of course the biggest baddie of them all shows up the second he takes his armor off. Thus, he did the only thing he could: he ran with the villagers. His hope was to protect as many as possible until the cooldown ran out. After that, he’d switch to the offensive. Until then, surviving was his priority. 15 seconds remain. Some of the more stalwart and brave villagers tried to fight and defend their home. We took little remorse in killing these men and women, and she turned them into her army. Her maddening cackle mixed with the screams of death like some terrible symphony. There were children who didn't leave the sides of their parents, husbands who died who then killed their loving families and children forced to put down their parents. We only delighted with glee in the terror, it was the only time she felt alive. Kirby couldn’t stand it. This wasn’t acceptable. He couldn’t just run away. From what he could tell, these people were as strong as normal humans. If so, he had a plan. Kirby turned abruptly, sprinting towards the woman who was the source of all this. He had faith in his ability to react and dodge. His plan was simple. Get in range of her, transform, use dragon wing flap to get behind her, and then use the full power of his attack at point-blank range. 12 seconds. We launched an unholy barrage towards Kirby that murdered more small children and families. And he was unable to do anything as the forces of evil grew closer. We maintained her attack as another spear came rushing towards another small child. The terror in his eyes said it all. And Kirby was too far. He was too slow. He was stuck with these rules that he couldn't break. Kirby didn’t know what to do. He hadn’t gotten hit yet. He could do that much at least. But as the people around him got hit, his blood ran cold. “Get begins something! Make it so she can’t see you!” he roared to the people. He didn’t know how much that would actually help, but it was something. As he did this, he tried to do something. He tried to kick a skeleton into the path of the oncoming spear. Maybe that would be enough. Maybe. He just needed to stay alive for these few seconds more. 9 seconds In a sudden white bolt, Lisa came and dragged the child out of the way from the strike. We only looked annoyed." Hahaha! My plan worked!!" She was obviously lying through her teeth. But it was still a great help.At that moment, Kirby miscalculated. There was a spear only inches away from him. At that moment his life flashed before his eyes, but at that moment his HUD appeared." Code Breaker: Warning. Your divine armament's conditions are set to protect your soul and quintessence from being wasted, poisoned etc. If you wish to do this you will use your soul as fuel to power your abilities. Quintessence poisoning varying in your location and how long you maintain your state. Activate?" There weren’t a lot options available to him. He really, really didn’t like the idea of using his soul to power his abilities. But he liked getting imaged by spears even less. Thankfully, Lisa has served the boy. Now he needed to focus on me. So he agreed. His quintessence would become to fuel he needed. 8 seconds As Kirby pressed the button he all of a sudden felt as if his entire body lit up for the first time. It was a surreal experience to feel what was almost inconceivable; his vision was suddenly so sharp, his muscles so taut and strong, he felt like a new man. Almost subconsciously his body moved forward, as he watched on there was a new bar on his HUD. It was bar that blinked rapidly, it was a black and red bar that had 100% on one side and a skull and crossbones on the other. With what abilities Kirby had, he managed to swiftly fly off, not only once, but twice back to back. As it continued on, this was much more than just what the screen said. He was able to move his body with the full freedom of his imagination. It seemed as long as he could imagine the movement, and it was physically done it; then it would happen." You little gnat! We will kill you!"7 seconds and Quintessence Bar at 100%Kirby was now directly across from We as her army began to charge in. Lisa only remained stuck for a moment as she saw Kirby, his armor glowed like a prismatic gem as it displayed all the colors available in his arsenal. There was something that told her, if she wanted to find her mahatma; she needed to help him and keep him alive. Kirby's vision focused again as he saw the wind trails of the movement, and he was able to count over 300 enemies. He needed something big in order to handle this.~~~"So tell me Pinky dear, what exactly did you have in mind?" Enema teased out as the armadillo statue laughed." Great emperors: The Brown Armadillo Panama's Endless Hunger:Fujiko." What was revealed was a man who seemed beyond tortured. His lips were sewn shut and bloody, his eyes covered in thick bandages. He was gaunt, almost as if he never even bothered to eat. His smile actually showed a maw of sharpened teeth, teeth that were painstakingly sharpened by hand. His fingers didn't even have nails on some of his fingertips. His stats were certainly high, but the stat he dominated in was constitution. But what was haunting among the gods was his element; it was null." Wait? What? How is he even alive?" Pain interjected. "With a quintessence like that... he is more of a demon than a human, that is cheating. How is he even able to harness demonic quintessence? Only the divine who fell from grace can do that! Sibelius, as the arbiter of this contest I demand that you disqualify Panama this instant!" The authoritative tone of Pain was quickly hushed by Sibelius who almost seemed upset." Paina, my empress, do you not believe that I would not hold this game as a sacred honor to judge? I take my duty very seriously. When I disassembled him, I found what happened. Fujiko was once a human. In his reality there was a foul king who captured entire villages and did horrible experiments on the people. Fujiko was forced to do countless crimes against humanity. Fujiko was forced to, and not limited too; eat babies, devour blood for hours, endure torture, rape among other things. As these acts were performed on him, his soul simply burnt out. In order for him to survive he needs to feed off the quintessence of other living beings. Yujiro was shown to the gods as he walked through a small city, his hands dripped with blood as he dragged a woman and began to eat her alive. She begged him, pleaded him to stop but all he did was run his hand across her lips. Her lips dried up as her soul seemed to slip out of her body. The city was in shambles as he dug his nails into his flesh and seemed to ritualistically scar himself. Magic smells that were thrown against him all disappeared as his anti-quintessence shield devoured it. But there was a trick in the spell as a solid cannonball hit his face. A sand lizard that seemed to live inside Fujiko shot out and ate the cannonball. He waved is hand in the general direction of the wizards as a massive purple claw cut through the people and easily severed them." Sadly, those killed by Fujiko suffer a fate worse than hell itself. They are sucked into his barren soul and used as fodder and once the soul has no more quintessence to life... it ceases to exist. Not even I can save those souls. It literally becomes nothing. I have never seen abilities like his in a human, so I have very little knowledge even when I disassembled him. He tried to charge and consume me."" That would be dangerous. You are playing a scary game there Pinky... he might be able to kill us all if he consumed enough souls. He could destroy all reality." Corona responded. But then Panama soon laughed." And poor Forward with the weakest person here. A normal human from a world without active quintessence. What kind of dumb move was that?" Forward remained quiet." Great emperor, The Green Dragon Forward Thunderous Fang: Kirby Flynn." Kirby was displayed and unlike others who had stats in the hundreds or so, Kirby barely passed the midteens. As the gods laughed his potential far began to fill... And fill... And fill... and the gods stopped laughing. And filled even further. Then his quintessence was displayed: both wind and water. And even one final thing in bold letters "Code Breaker"." What kind of bullshit lottery is this Forward! You thought Pinky was cheating. THAT is cheating." Shi gen quickly commented as Forward began to laugh." I scoured my side of the universe for such a potential line in my space. And then I found it, the potential for a code breaker, the person who can break the rules of reality like we can but in human form. I quickly moved let lines towards earth over 200 years ago and plotted everything for this day. I will show you the power of an explosive talent who bursts through like a tornado." Forward shouted to the other gods."Indeed, my lords, as I disassembled him I found the most rare thing I have ever seen in his soul. A spirit tied to two elements, but there is potential danger in such an action and with his status as a code breaker; the dangers to him are unique and dangerous. Until he can reach at least half of his potential he is a paper tiger in front of a storm. But, if he were to reach that potential then he could become the storm. Now my lords. We will watch this tournament unfolds and may the best god win." Kirby still wasn’t fully sure what was going on with him. However, it seemed as though he could exceed the limits that had held him back earlier. He could do anything. All at the minor cost of his very sound. He’d try not to dwell on that last part too much. For now, he just needed to win. As he approached We, he made sure he was away from any civilians. Once he was, he tried to use the Dragon Tail Slash with both wind and ice. His goal was to create a hail of ice spikes that were launched by the wind like bullets. Hopefully it worked. 5 seconds, Quintessence bar at 99%"Forward's Explosive Breath: Level ???" Quintessence bar at 96%The attack morphed into something he couldn't explain. In the heat of the moment Kirby didn't notice that every element ticker was on. As he swung his entire body it gathered a power from within that seemed almost boundless. As he swung his leg it was not wind that followed, it was not ice nor thunder; but a hellish mix of the three. It was a variable Bergstrom with winds that blew away the houses in front of him, ice that froze over the ground and turned it to solid ice and within all of that furious bolts of energy ripped through the ground and those enemies. When it was all said and done only We remained standing, and she took massive damage. She lost the left side of her skull, her right arm, her first and second layer of skin and who could know the countless other injuries. We knew this was wrong. This was not supposed to happen this way. She weakly turned back to see that where was nothing left but ground that was ripped asunder and ice. She was alone against this monster of a being. The queen would not like this. Lisha and the towns people remained in awe at what they saw, a single person who did so much damage. We fell down to her knees as she extended her hand, she tried to launch something, but she just fell over. It looked like in one move it was all over. As soon as it was over, Kirby disengaged his armor. He, too, was in awe of what he had just accomplished. It was unlike anything he had experienced before. His Code Breaker ability truly was insane. However, he wasn’t sure how much he could use it. He didn’t know how quickly that bar would refill, if at all. It was a scary prospect, to say the least. However, he knew that could all be tackled later. Right now, We are the most immediate threat. He approached her, just to see if she was still alive. Or whatever was her normal state. He was pretty sure she wasn’t entirely human. Once he knew that much, he could decide on how best to deal with her. When he took that first step his entire rebelled against him. It felt as if every cell, every bone, every organ was dipped in hot lava. Lisa moved over and held him up and sat him down as the towns people rallied behind him. Though they lost, it could have been much worse if this mysterious stranger had not appeared to save them. Lisa did walk over and took the time to sever We's head." You really did a number on this whole area." Lisa admitted. "But its lucky you have me around to help you. You don't look from around here, but my name is Lisa and I think we can help each other." Kirby's senses were all out of tune, time felt both fast and slow, his ears heard at different decibels, colors blended together into a mishmash of colors. Kirby just didn't feel good and all his body wanted was to go to sleep. Kirby had to fight to remain conscious for just a moment. He pointed over towards We’s body and said one word. “Burn.” He didn’t know what she was but best to make sure she didn’t come back. Never trust a necromancer to stay dead. That was the last of his strength. He didn’t even hear what Lisa said. He just completely conked out. Furthermore, he was going to sleep for a while after that. Kirby never sleeps so deeply before, it was an indescribable exhaustion. He did not know how long he sleeps for, but he eventually awoke to the smell of something absolutely delicious. The noise from the outside seemed incredibly loud as his HUD turned on again, All of his skills were on a, what was that... 3 day cool down?? And his soul quintessence did not recover. It looked like that was a permanent loss. At least the pain has gone from burning in lava to burning in a fire. A small dwarf child who seemed to be waiting and ran off." Good, you are awake. The name's Lisa. What's up?" She curiously little fox girl sat down next to him, her tailed wagged around curiously. The first sound to escape Kirby’s lips was a groan. His body was so tired after that fight. It was like he had danced every role in grand ballet twice without resting. Or breathing. After a moment to recover and breathe, he tried to speak to the girl next to him. “I’m Kirby Flynn,” he said weakly. This truly was a first, being this exhausted. “Can you tell me where I am and what happened?” "You are really powerful aren't you Kirby!" Lisa had a winning grin as her tails danced around energetically. "Here, eat. Well you did something almost impossible, you combine two quintessence types, added an advance one as well. It was intense. How are you so good?" Lisa asked." Don't let her butter you up. All she wants is to have someone help her find her mahatma so she can't be useless." A random person pointed out." I am not useless... It's hard for me to control my powers without it. And I have to beat my sisters in order to be welcomed back into the family." Lisa protested. "But yeah... what is that necklace?" Lisa tried to grab it but she suddenly and stepped away terrified. There was something that scared her away from touching the necklace. Mahatma. He was sure he had heard someone mention that before in regard to her. Whatever if was, it was clearly important. But he could care about that later.“It’s very important to me,” he informed her, glad her hand retreated from it. “And it’s very dangerous.” Hopefully that would keep her from trying to touch it again. “Now, can you please tell me where I am? I’m a complete stranger to this area. I come from very far away.” The world traveling didn’t need to be explained to everyone. It’s not like he was lying either. "Hmm? You traveled down here and don't know where you are? Well, considering you are in Miller ton that makes sense. This is a poor farm village that has nothing worth anything." Lisa admitted and many of the towns people agreed. This was a simple farm village without much of anything really." So I have a proposition for you Kirk, I help you go around the world and you help me find my mahatma. If you have no idea about anything you need a helping hand, and who better than me?" Lisa exclaimed proudly as the eyes of the villagers turned shifty... almost as if they were trying to hide something. “Not agreeing to anything yet, but I may take you up on that offer,” he answered. He wasn’t going to make a random alliance with someone before he thought it through. And right now his brain was in no position to think.“You have food, right?” he asked, suddenly having the hunger got him. He hadn’t eaten for some time. He had been hungry when he had left the ballet studio. Who knows how long it had been since then. He’d needed sustenance soon. "Hey Mimi! Bring him some food will you!" Lisa shouted as she ran out." Sure, coming!" A sweet voice called out. A tan skinned girl with an athletic build and white hair. She brought over a bowl of food and sat down next to Kirby and handed it. "Hello, I am Mimi, it is wonderful to meet you." In the midst of finally understanding language and all the pain he endured, there is a lovely sun-tanned queen in front of him. Smooth looking skin, slightly pointy ears, a demure but supple figure. "This is a bear stew, some bread and potatoes. I wish we had something nicer to offer you but... our village was just destroyed." She pouted as she sat down. "But don't worry! You did your best, and you saved so many of us. Thank you." Her sincerity was beyond sweet, the way her eyes lit up as she spoke to him and her warmth was cute. The stew itself seemed to be made not only with bear but there were some other meats, there were some tomatoes as the sauce was red, but it was rustic and flavorful. All the meat and protein would do his body good as the nicely spiced meat spilled their juices as he would continue to eat. Even the little bit of warm spice helped accelerate his hunger. Mimi looked quite happy as Kirby ate." Well, Lisa fainted again." Another villager put Lisa down, and she looks as if she was in pain. Her body was covered in small beads of sweat, and she trembled in pain. She was so pretty. Kirby’s eyes lit up at the sight of her. She was quite the sight for sore eyes. It suddenly made him feel like this entire trip had been worth it to see someone like her.“Thank you very much Mimi,” he said with nod. He happily plowed through the food, finding it absolutely delicious. His mood was tainted by the memory of how much damage had been done to the village, but he could do nothing to change that now. He could only be glad more damage hadn’t been inflicted. At least some had survived.“Did you make this?” he asked before Alisha collapsed, stealing his attention. “Is she alright?” "I did make this, it is a town specialty. We are all hard workers here so we need filling meals, and she is somewhat alright. See... as a mistune child, without her mahatmas she cannot regulate how her quintessence spills out of her body. She is constantly leaking out her life force like a broken bucket. It can be patched..." Mimi blushed deeply as she seemed unable to speak. "She normally g-gets donations of quintessence to keep her alive. But when she fought she used the last bit of it. And now her body is being ripped apart from the inside out." Mimi's concern was visible for poor Lisa. She looked uncomfortable as she hacked out something white." We will need to find someone to help her." Mimi stated. “Could I help?” Kirby asked, still continuing to eat the food. “I believe I was told I have a lot of quintessences. I don’t know how to donate it, but I’d like to help if I can.” He didn’t like seeing her like this. Even if she had tried to sic the villagers on him, she had helped him in the end. That was the important part. He also now knew why a mahatma was so important to her. It also explained why she went so far away. All power, no control. "... if you wish to donate your quintessence... then you have to lay with her." Mimi seemed so embarked that she was unable to even look at him. "Especially if you two are opposite quintessence types... you might have to be intimate a lot longer. Her body ends up being a sponge and you... can fill it up. Oh, I have no way to explain this properly... I wish Ms. Kurds was here. She would know how to explain it better. But she needs a... direct shot of your life." Mimi's dark skin was beaten out by the warm blush that covered her cheeks. Was this even the truth? Maybe there was something else he could do, but maybe even a better understanding on quintessence was at hand as well. Maybe this Kurds was a good person to see? Kirby also went red. He was, surprisingly, a virgin. He had never been one for romance, having always been focused on other things. But here, in this world, something about the fact that he could die at any moment made him far more receptive to the idea. But he wasn’t interested in sleeping with Lisa.“Who is Ms. Kurds? And where is she?” he asked Mimi. Maybe she’d have a better answer to this problem. "Kurds is our village wizard. But she has stepped out, she is at some wizard meeting I think. If you like we can take you to her home. Maybe you will find something that can help you. But first eat and then we can go." With a little wave Mimi leaves them be. Lisa on the other hand was only getting worse, her skin grew a deathly pale as she curled up in pain." Am I so ugly?" Lisa tried to make a joke as she shuddered in pain. Kirby didn’t respond, focusing only on his meal. It didn’t take long for him to finish up his meal. After that, he took some time to gather himself before slowly standing up. He felt several shocks of pain as he did so. Honestly, he didn’t want to be standing. But Ms Kurds’s house held the best way to figure out how to deal with this problem. He headed out of the house, hoping to find Mimi so she could guide him. The sooner this was done, the sooner he could rest. They were eventually led to a quiet hovel that looked like a tornado ran through it made of lava. The edges of everything was burnt by some kind of fire and the stench was uniquely foul. Yes, the smell smelt like rotten eggs but also like roses. Kirby's nose was unable to understand it. Mimi was not able to go any further, she tightly closed her nose, and it seemed that the stink kept her away. Upon closer inspection, the place looked like a mess of books, notes and crumbs. There might have been some new life form inside this place. But there seemed to be some movement inside the house under a stack of books, was someone inside? Kirby might’ve been knocked down by the smell of it wasn’t for his training. He had been in training rooms reeking of BO in the past. It was bad, but not unbearable. “You can wait outside,” he told Mimi, seeing her discomfort. Now inside, he began to search through the place for any notes on quintessence and transferal of it. He really was flying blind on the subject. Hopefully he could find something. As he continued to walk around the room it turned out this place was one big Petra dish. It looked like some of the mold on the walls pulsated with life. Kirby moved along until he ran into a stack of books. There were countless small floating orbs of light that illuminated the room as there were books walking around and reorganizing themselves. Dinner was even being made by some set of floating hands. As he continued to look the books from around the room eventually cleared themselves out to reveal a woman that was hidden beneath the mess. There was a woman beneath the entire mess, she had long blonde hair and despite being a bookworm she looked well put together. She had a slender waist and a very flat and smooth stomach. But her breasts stood out as her waist and diminutive size made the rest of her look large by comparison. Her green eyes shined a sat up and saw this guest. She was in her underwear. She stands up, snaps her fingers and things move rapidly into place. Furthermore, she even dumped a bucket of ice water to wake herself up. Furthermore, she dried herself off with a towel as her clothing seemed to gain life and place themselves on her." Hey there, Janice Viqoraotherwise known as Kurds. Nice to meet you... hmm." She began to examine him with her keen eyes. There was something about him, she couldn't figure out. Or about that tooth on his chest. "But what's going on. Why did you wake me from my slumber? I was having a nice 3-day nap as I hoped through osmosis I would learn from these books." She already complained." We were all nearly killed, and you were sleeping the whole time?!" Mimi complained. Janice only shrugged. Well that was something Kirby had not expected. He thought she had left. Looks like Mimi’s intel was wrong. He also didn’t expect her to be this gorgeous. Maybe Mimi and Kurds were exceptions, but the women of this world seemed to be gorgeous.“Hello. I’m Kirby Flynn. I’m a wanderer who arrived in this town recently,” he explained, not joining Mimi’s anger. While it did annoy him, there was little he could do about it now. The past was the past. “I’m looking for a way to pass quintessence onto another person without mating with them. I was told you may know how to do that.” "I guess Lisa is about to be ripped apart by all reality because her quintessence is dying out again. And I guess we can get a villager to do it. See, the real question is why are you lying to me." Kurds seemed uniquely upset, but there was something about her eyes and the way she stared at him. Almost like Sibelius, it was like she could stare directly into one's soul. She picked up her pipe and took a deep drag." Look, I don't see the hang-up but if you want to be a little virgin about it go ahead. Unless you are saving yourself for some impossible to reach angel. But back to the point at hand, yest you did travel from a long ways away, but your quintessence is quite small. You would be unsuitable to do anything to help her. The item on your chest has a lot of quintessences... I am talking a lot of shit you most likely don't even know. Do you need a lesson?" She took a seat as she found a random bottle and threw it at Mimi. "Take that to our useless little fox girl who loses her most important tool." Kirby felt something stirring in him as he spoke to this woman. There was anger at being talked to this way, but also a list. Something about her made him want to bed her over and fuck her nonstop. But he kept his composure.“I’m being honest with you,” he informed her. “I came here looking for an answer to the problem. I could’ve fucked her right there, but I didn’t want to. That’s the long and short of it. Not because I’m saving myself. I’d happily take both of you right now. But I’m not going to have sex if I don’t want to,” he said sternly. "Oh, you are gay. That's fine, you could have just said that. Jeez, we aren't such a place that judges people for their preferences. It doesn't change much of anything. Your quintessence, yours not the little tooth on your chest, is so weak it is almost unnoticeable. You are so below the radar you are not even on it. So anyway. What can I try to do for you." She took another deep drag of her pipe. It sparked brightly with a blue light as a green smoke was ejected from her mouth." I mean, Kirby, was it? I can tell by looking at you that you do not belong. There is no one in Vireos who dresses like you. Which only makes you stand out. I want to try to help you, but I can't help someone so tight-lipped." He just grimaced. He honestly didn’t have anything to ask her. Furthermore, he literally came here to find a solution for Lisa. That was it. It had nothing to do with anything else. Yet here she was, insulting him and acting like she knew everything. So far, she seemed like the type who was smart, but also had an immense ego as a result. She thought she had him read like a book and couldn’t accept that she was wrong.“Honestly, I already got everything I came here for,” he answered, heading to leave with Mimi. “You can sit here pondering the great mystery all you want. Mimi and I will go help Lisa.” Kurds was now keenly curious as she now decided to follow along. Mimi however now felt stuck between the two of them. She took out her pipe and continued to smoke it as she eagerly awaited the moment where Kirby would have to admit that he needed help." Kirby, what happened? Why are you so mad. I know she has a terrible attitude, but she is knowledgeable. But do you have an idea?" Mimi questioned him as they continued to walk along." I can't see the future, but I know he doesn't. All I wanted to do was explain things to him." She pointed out as the floated by, not willing to leave well enough alone. But maybe were was someone on his HUD that allowed him to break the rules apparently set by Kurds? “It’s not that I’m angry,” he informed Mimi. “I just haven’t made a plan yet. I need to take my time to think. So I don’t even know what questions I want to ask,” he explained. It’s not like he knew everything. He had to take his time to gather himself and figure the situation out. But he did decide to check his HUD, just to see if there was anything of use there. Anything to get this annoying wizard under control. As he walked along and examined his HUD, he noticed that his item had an additional setting that he never had the chance to notice before, soon enough he was going to have to really take the time to sit through and learn all the functions of the HUD. But there was a special feature called "knighting." As he read along this allowed him to install a small part of his weapons quintessence into another person to give them a boost in power at the expense of his own. While under the effect of being knighted, they have to obey their "lord", the one who bestowed them with power, and as the lord he can strip that power away as needed. He could knight up to 5 people but that would leave him with no power of his own. It was a temporary solution, but it was the best idea currently, unless he wished to talk to Kurds. That was definitely good to know. He’d keep that in mind for future situations. However, it didn’t feel right to use it just to shut up an admittedly very annoying person. He hadn’t fallen that far yet.“So, Kurds, can we talk another time when I know what I need to ask you about?” That would hopefully placate her for now. It was all he had. "I am only following because I am curious." She smiled as she rolled her pipe onto another setting and continued to smoke." Did you find someone useful Kirby?" Mimi came up to him and waited for his response. “No one other than you,” he told Mimi with a smile. This girl was easily his favorite so far. She was sweet, not a judgmental bitch, and hadn’t tried to kill him. And that sun kissed skin... However, an idea occurred to Kirby. Could he see the status of others? There had to be some form of detection powers. After all, his HUD has gauges both Lisa and We’s power. He decided to see if he could analyze the girl in front of him by focusing, just to see if it was possible. As his HUD updated, he scanned it over Mimi and while he learned that Mimi was something interesting, it turned out that Mimi was a half elf and her other half was draw, a dark elf." Why are you staring at me?" Mimi suddenly grew rather nervous but as he continued, just like a total list of online players, he was able to find out who was related her. And there was only one name there: Sale Diesel. While he had no received information about this person it might be a start. But Mimi was certainly no fighter, but she seemed to be willing to do her best to offer her support. “Ah, sorry,” Kirby apologized, looking away. That was a little embarrassing. He’d have to make sure future analysis was done when it wouldn’t be so awkward. Still, it was good to know he had this capability.“Let’s get this to Lisa,” he said, referring to the potion. This would keep her from destroying herself at least. When he arrived at the hotel it looked almost as if Lisa was about to fall apart, literally. Her fingers were withered to the bone and seemed to be disappearing, her fur had turned ghastly, and she looked like she couldn't see. But once fed the potion she looked to relax." Give her a day, the will be ready to annoy all of us." Euros responded as Mimi went to care for her. "That girl never stops. She needs something else to live for." Seeing her like this, Kirby realized just how bad her situation was. And how selfish he had been. If she needed sex to stay alive, as insane as that sounded, he should have given it to her. Putting her at risk like this when she didn’t need to be was awful.“Good to know,” he said back to her, taking a seat. “Okay, Kurds, I need your help,” he started, swallowing his pride. He proceeded to explain everything to her. From coming from another world to the fight with We, he was completely honest. He needed assistance in figuring out what to do. Kurds motioned for him to follow as she floated by and randomly stole a piece of bread from the nearby windowsill. In the middle of chewing she did at least share some. She took one more moment to breathe in her pipe as she looked to him." Ok, so you are a total novice. And don't worry, I was kind of a bitch too. I have an itch to scratch and no one wants to do me. But have to start from the beginning. There is a force that exists in every reality, it is an energy that moves the entire multiverse, that force is quintessence. Quintessence is the universal energy that creates every single item you see, every single reaction. Everything. It can all be boiled down to quintessence. And, with Lisa, her mahatmas that allow her to regulate her quintessence were stolen. Quintessence is what also binds you to reality and keeps all the realities separate. There are situations where the worlds do blend; Vampires, Aliens, Bigfoot and the like come from those interactions. But when we humans or any creature create new life, it is quintessence that is shared first. That is why I said sex was the fastest way. The sad part for Lisa is that she can never be a mother until she finds her mahatma. Her body just doesn't function right." She takes a deep drag of her pipe and now begins to form small elemental fires." Normally, quintessence is abundant in universes with salines, these lines are the walls of reality that keep everything separate. Or else every universe would just crash with each other. It is the essence of all magical study. Manipulating these energies to create various effects. But you are a rare case. Almost as if you were built personally by a god. As a mage, I have my ways to read quintessence and see what elements a person's soul is able to use. You can use multiple ones. Most humans are only born with one. As I mentioned, the quintessence of this universe should have ripped you apart by now... but It's almost as if you were remade to be able to endure in this universe. But... there have been stories of travelers coming to this planet to engage in some sort of war game. We do not know who or why, but that maybe why you are here. I can teach you how to better manipulate quintessence so you can use your abilities more effectively, and I can teach you many more things. Considering the quest you are about to take I might be able to help you. Especially the fight with me. She is a member of The Cult of Death. And they are going to come after you now. Handling them might be your next best bet. And it can be a good chance for you to learn how to use your abilities better. Your item, that fang, is special. That is because it holds an even more pure form of quintessence that we dub divine quintessence. Quintessence normally has to follow rules, especially in terms of the elemental properties used and some other theories. But divine quintessence has no rules. But we will work up to there, sounds good?" Kurasu extends a hand to Kirby. She actually looked like she wanted to help. Kirby processed what she said, putting together the pieces he had been gathering since his arrival. Things began to make sense. He also understood his new acquaintances’ issues. So he had reached his conclusion.“Sounds great,” he responded, smiling as he took her hand. “Also, next time Lisa needs help, I’ll provide it. Her needs are more important than selfish thoughts. And I offer the same to you in exchange for your help. I’ll help you scratch that itch anytime,” he promised. Hopefully this would get him on her good side. And it was hardly a bad deal. "So let's go then Kirby? I think you earned yourself a nice release no?" She smiled and walked away from him as she returned to home. She was calling him over, she was actually quite excited. It has been over a year since she had a good lay. Once he got in she smiled to him and curved her lips." Come on." She pointed to him and ushered him over. Kirby was surprised at how eager she was. Clearly she wasn’t lying about having not gotten laid in a long time. He hoped his inexperience wouldn’t disappoint her.“You could at least make me dinner first,” he joked as he approached her. When he got close, he placed his hands on her hips as he pulled her in close. “Let’s take our time,” he told her, pulling on his years of training to handle intimidating situations. Then he leaned in, giving her a gentle kiss. Her lips were actually quite soft and full, she was a tender kisser as well. She gently pressed her head towards him which was a stark contrast from her attitude thus far. "Well I fed your brain no? Does that no count Kirby?" She wrapped her leg around him as she wrapped her arms around his neck as she wanted him even closer. She moaned softly into his mouth as their lips continued to mix. Until she got a little more bold and slipped her tongue into his mouth. Kirby was currently moving purely on instinct. This was his first kiss, but he didn’t plan on letting her know that. “Fair enough,” he replied coyly before embracing her and allowing the deeper kiss. When her tongue entered his mouth, he was surprised at the sensation. It was strange, but not at all bad or unwelcome. And so, he did his best to match her, hoping it would be enough to make the kiss as pleasurable for her. But all the while, he began to guide her in the direction of the bed. He was eager himself to see just what was so amazing about this act his hormones were constantly driving him towards. Kurds let him lead as her lips remained on his, but as they continued to kiss the woman pressed her body deeper and closer to his. She pulled away from him and snapped her fingers as a light flame ate their clothing. Her body was outstanding; a warm thickness that gave her luscious curves, a pair of large breasts with a pair of light skinned perky nipples and a pubic area with a wispy patch of blonde hair. She did look at him rather approvingly." You have something quite nice there Kirby, I hope you really know how to use it." The sultriness in her voice hung in the air like a coat of paint. Kurds again only pressed herself forward as she wrapped her leg around him in an attempt to pull him towards her plush bed. Kirby was proud of his body. He was well-built, muscles apparent without being overly bulky. He was lean and powerful, as he needed to be. Furthermore, he also cared for his appearance, in case anything was necessary. Finally, resting between his legs was an object that was sometimes a nuisance, sometimes a treasure. His eight-inch-long cocks with his sizable balls hanging beneath. But she hadn’t seen anything yet. When he got hard, he would hit just over ten inches with his thick beast. Truly impressive, at least by his standards. Kirby needed little encouragement to come closer. In fact, he pushed her down onto her bed, suspending himself above her with a wolffish smile before stealing another, much more passionate kiss. All the while, his lower half began to awaken. Kurds took a moment to admire his body. She stood him up and took a moment to examine his fine features and stellar body. Kirby could tell she was enthralled by how he looked. She wondered if this was how men looked in his universe. And even his cock, it was flaccid and bigger than the average man here. His legs were strong and powerful, his body supple and streamlined. Her fingers continued to run across his musculature as she gave a short like smile." Why do I have the feeling I might just stick around a bit longer because of how you look? I hope you know how to use that. Because if you do, you might just totally tame me." She admitted quite frankly as she pulled him closer into another kiss, her hands and fingers ran across the length of his shaft with smooth teasing motions. Her lips curved into a smile as she continued to suck his lips and tongue. Kirby wasn’t entirely sure how to use it, but he was certainly going to try. For all his stoicism, he had dreamed of one day being able to have sex. So he was going to do his best. And if he managed to ‘tame’ Kurds? All the better. He relished the feeling of her touching him, but couldn’t just bask in it. He needed to return the favor. So his hand slipped down towards her entrance where he began to gently stimulate her. He only used one finger to do so as his thumb located her clit. "Oh look at you, you do know something of what to do." She teased him sweetly, her voice soon gained a rich sultry tone. Her center was smooth, it felt like his finger could easily glide across it. As he continued to rub her clit, she grew more and more wet, his fingers now covered in a thin liquid. Kurds continued to moan softly for him as she stroked him faster and faster. She was curious to see just how big he could get. "Your hands seem to know mmm~ where to find my spots." She cooed for him as she slowly began to grind her hops against his hand, desperate for more. Kirby had watched a lot of porn in his time, so he had an idea of what would happen. But Kurds was responding far better than he ever expected. But he wasn’t going to give in right away. She had annoyed him earlier, so he was going for revenge. So as she tried to grind into him, he pulled back in equal measure. He continued to drive her arousal, but never doing enough to make her cum. He was teasing her. Kurds was at his mercy soon enough, she leaned back as her center only grew more and more wet. She cooed for him desperately as she leaned back, her body opens to his ways. Kirby couldn't tell if she either enjoyed it or hated it, but the fact that she continued to cry like a dog in heat for more said it all. Her glassy eyes stare as euphoria began to take over her mind said it all. Her ample breasts shook as she rocked against his hand hungry for more." C-come on... don't keep me waiting..." She begged. Kirby to a moment to look around, his eyes searching as a devious plan hatched in his mind. Then he saw what he needed. With a surprising amount of speed, her hands were pinned above her head. Using a braided cord he imagined was for some outfit, he tied them together and then to the headboard of the bed. He had restrained her. With Kurds unable to move freely, Kirby dropped so that his head was between her legs. Relishing the feeling of her soft things against his head, he began to lick her entrance with desire. He was hesitant at first, but after a single taste he was digging in. But he made sure not to do too much, keeping her on the edge. "Hey? What are you ooohhhh~" Kurds seemed rather hesitant at first but soon enough she was like putty in his hands. Her delicate folds were at his disposal and her erotic and salty taste filled his mouth. Even to someone inexperienced like Kirby he could tell, this was the first time something like this was done to her. She wrapped her warm thighs against his head to force him to lick her faster. Her hips rocked against his face, her gasps only grew more erratic and her body continued to shake. Her body's shape shook like an ocean as orgasmic pleasure shot through her system, Kurds unable to contain herself. Hey had been trying to keep her from cumming, but it seemed like he had failed on that front. However, the lady herself didn’t seem to mind. Having her tied up and orgasming for him like this... it felt incredible. Almost more incredible than the dragon armor.“I hope you liked the warm-up,” he informed her, raising up to look her in the eyes while he lined up his now rock hard monster with her entrance. And without giving her time to respond, he pushed inside of her, experiencing his first ever taste of a woman. It was wonderful. Kurds's body quickly clamped down on his cock like a hungry vice. She took in a deep breath as all she could do was struggle. But she didn't mind this weakness, she quite liked having Kirby have his way with her. She did wrap her legs around him in a desperate move to make sure he doesn't leave. Her eyes looked lost in the lust she experienced with him. Her hot, wet insides felt like a warm silk glove around his cock." You ahhh~, could have warned me... you are so MMM~ big." Kurds looked at him hungrily, her mind only had one thing on it. Him and his cock. “You don’t seem to mind,” he panted back, loving the feeling of her legs wrapped around his waist. But that didn’t compare to how she felt inside. She was so warm and soft. It was unlike anything he had ever felt. And there was one instinct inside him that screaming at him an unavoidable command. And do he began to thrust inside of her, fucking her for the first time. "Oh... Oh, Kirby!! How are you mm~ doing this to me?!" Kurds was under his mercy, the combination of his more than great member and the skills from dancing proved to be very useful. Kurds felt as it Kirby just knew how to slide into her body to hit every soft spot in her pussy. Her mind turned blank as the only thing she could have done was beg him for more. She wanted everything he could give her and her legs were not letting go any time soon. For Kirby, this was a learning experience. Every reaction she made, he noticed. And as someone used to making minute adjustments, he made subtle changes with every thrust. He was finding everyone of Kurds’s weak spots and mercilessly attacking them. He wanted to break her, to make her completely his. "I'm cumming Kirby!!!" Kurds's back arched as a full body orgasm caused her entire body to shudder. As her mind was washed over with pleasure she remained blissfully quiet. Her walls did whatever they could to make her partner orgasm as well. For Kirby, while he may have some gifted talent, he was still a virgin. Holding himself back as long as he already had been a difficult task. Doing it as her soft walls tightened around him? Impossible.“Kurds,” he groaned as he came, his considerable load flowing into her to fill her up completely. He was panting heavily, feeling an unknown but satisfied type of exhaustion.“So, Kurds,” he started, carefully untying the cord that still bound her, “did I live up to your expectations?” "You did and then some... how did you do that with your hips? That felt amazing." She oozed out of her mouth as she remained in a heap, it also looked like his dancing training would be rather helpful in such tasks. She pulled him into an embrace. "Just say a while here, will you? We can continue our journey in a bit. I admit I am a woman who enjoyed cuddling after sex." She curled up next to his face and only remained next to him, perfectly content. Kirby chuckled, wrapping his arm around her and pulling her against him. As he did that, he reached over to grab a blanket to pull it on top of them. Now covered, he helped her snuggle into him. “Take all the time you need,” he said, stroking her cheek gently. Even as inexperienced as he was, he knew about aftercare. You couldn’t just fuck and leave, especially after tying her up like he did. So he’d give her all the affection she needed. Besides, he’d really like to see what she’d be like if he successfully “tamed” her. Kurds did so, she remained there for at least ten minutes, her fingers traced his form throughout the time. She seemed very impressed actually, most of the men she was used to much more burly and barbaric men. She found Kirby's athletic form rather fetching." So, I guess I will be your trainer for quintessence use. So far, you have only used your weapon's power so far. You have your own to develop, and eventually you will need it. Among other things. We should eventually get a move on. Lisa is most likely attach herself like some sort of leech so expect her to follow." “That sounds like a plan. We should talk to Lisa about her Mahatma, see if we can find where it is. We can’t have her live depending on others’ quintessence. She seems sad without it.” Kirby’s tension had really melted away. He felt much more relaxed now. Clearly this had taken a larger mental toll on him than he had initially thought.“Also, I hope you don’t think this will be a one time thing,” he said playfully, his hand sliding down to cup her ass. “I certainly know I won’t be able to handle not doing you again.” "That is going to require some time Kirby. The issue with her mahatma is a complicated family issue. And it's her sisters who basically stole all three of them. Mostly out of jealousy. In mistune culture, white foxes are considered royalty and are heralded as the next leaders. Something happened there and the only person who knows the story is Lisa." Kurds only grinned and pressed her hot sex over his flaccid dick, she gyrated her hips and winks." Come on whenever you like Kirby... any time, any place I will gladly take everything you got." She grinned to him. Kirby’s brow furrowed. This was sounding more complicated than he expected. Still, she needed help. And it was better than wandering aimlessly.“Maybe I’ll test those limits of any time and any place,” he flirted back. Seemed like traveling with her could be a lot of fun. “Now, if you don’t mind, you did just burn away the only clothes I had. Any chance you could bring them back?” "What a shame." She giggled as she popped up out of bed with a little bit of warm air. She snapped her fingers as her constructs began to measure him and make clothing for him, He was now in a flowing robe made of some blue silk with silver stitching. There was even a little dragon design on it. He has some boxers and some nice boots made. It all fit extremely comfortably. "Anything you want to change?" She was changed as well. Kirby took a moment to look at his new outfit. He was genuinely impressed with the work she had done. It was a hell of an outfit she had managed to put together.“I say we head back to the others. Unless you have some training in mind already,” he told her. He was ready to continue. "Sadly, we won't be able to do too much training. No doubt that We's group is going after you for killing her. And to be honest, I think we should try to find them and get rid of them. Necromancers are nothing but trouble. As we search, we can begin your training." Kurasu spoke seemingly from a place of experience, the anger she controlled spoke volumes of how she really felt. But as she opened the door Lisa was already there. She had the puffiest little pout as she stared at the both pf them. Kurds only seemed to grin in triumph.

Journey to Virelis (Cylian997 and BloodRedRomeo)|rating:4.0

Age of Discovery - Open

In a not so far future, there came a time that the pleasures of a sexual union was abandoned for a cold clinical joining of male and female. Births were controlled by the state and so were the people who had these babies. At any moment a person could be ordered to mate with another but of course it was a fast interaction that left the female pregnant and alone except for the clinical world of the state home for chosen Mothers. The people of this age only had one name, a first name as there were no parents, just the cold world of the State. Intellects were the only people allowed to refuse a partner. Two such intellects were Elizabeth and Brian. Their lot in life was to care for the Library. They were to read and if they found disturbing text, they were to bring it to their Leader. And so it was that these two sat night after night going for text after text until one night they found a book about sexual enjoyment. This is an open thread, a story I spun a while ago, and I decided to try it again. I need a Brian to my Elizabeth as two intellects who discover the books of sexual knowledge. The place for mating will be a huge white building with many floors which the mates may create as they go along. The BookBrainz intellect bred for bra install, medium build curly light brown hair down to his shoulder've been reading here for over three years now. Elizabeth, or Lizzie as I have nicknamed her in my mind, has been reading for nearly six years. I respect her experience. She has reported nearly 100 offensive books and all but 3 of those were deemed dangerous and destroyed to protect our world. I've thought of her as a valued associate. Now, I am afraid of her, Afraid for my life. Because of "the book"While working on the seventh floor last week I saw a book jammed back behind the stacks. Odd place for a book. I pull out the well thumbed paperback, "The Joy of Sex" I figure it must be a humor book. Sex has nothing to do with joy. Joy comes from serving the state. Sex? Well it's just a way to procreate. I flip open the book am shocked by the illustration, nude men and women touching each other's genitals. I quickly shove the book back into it's ancient hiding place. My hard is pounding. I look around to see if I have been observed. Thanks to the state, no. I turn to step away and feel an odd sensation. I feel an excitement that urges me back to the book. Furthermore, I refrain. I wonder where Elizabeth is? If she knew what I had just done, she could have me penalized severely. Elizabeth came around the corner of a bookshelf and saw Brian reaching for a book. He had a strange look on his face which made her wonder what he had found. She walked up behind him." Hi Brian, did you find something interesting, you have a strange look on your face". When he turned to her, she smiled. She liked Brian he was quite intelligent and in the years that they had worked together she had found a great respect for him. "Elizabeth, I need time to think. I am frankly confused" Elizabeth's smile is reassuring, my fear level is dropping. I remind myself to breath, breath deeply, just as I had read months ago about how to deal with a panic attacked. It is working. I look down for a few moments. I feel a need to test her smile to see if there is trust in our association or just amiability. Furthermore, I want to believe there is trust, but who really knows." Have you ever withheld reporting something you found that might be significant?" As I ask I become aware that I have just implied that I found something significant and not reported it. The images of the books flash back into my brain. I feel a tingle. I look into Elizabeth's eyes. Furthermore, I frowned at Brian's words, not understanding what he is talking about. "It is our duty to report books you know that. I was getting worried, did Brian find something and not report it. I remembered I saw him reaching for something and when he saw me or at least I think he saw me he pushed it into the shelf. Furthermore, I reach for whatever it was and pull it out and turn it to myself. There is a man and woman holding each other, and they are nude. I drop the book bearing registering the name of it. "It is perplexing, is it not?" I'm scared now. This could be the end of all the privilege I have enjoyed." Must we report this?' Curiosity filled my being as I bent to pick up the book that so shocked me. I heard Brian speak, but turmoil of my mind did not comprehend his words. I opened the book and looked at the first of many naked pictures of men and women in different positions. Though shocked I kept turning the pages, not reading but just looking at what I would call obscene. A touch of Brian's hand on my arm made me looked up into his serious eyes. He wanted my attention but all I wanted to do was look at those pictures. "Yes, Brian". Strangely I was breathing a bit heavy. The eye contact with Elizabeth made me quiver. Something was happening in my body that I did not understand intellectually. My thinking only let me believe I was ill. But, oddly, I did not feel bad. I felt almost physically powerful. I noticed that Elizabeth was acting oddly. She seems strangely attracted to the book. Books, in our lives, were for analyzing and culling. There was nothing to get excited about. But there was some sort of excitement going on here. My mind was spinning. I like things to make sense. I couldn't fit a logic to what was happening." We don't need to report this do we?" I was watching the pictures with her. I wanted to see more. Furthermore, I wanted to read about it. Furthermore, I wanted more! Furthermore, I was amazed at what I was seeing. The look of pleasure on these people's faces me confused. Sex according to the state was not pleasant but yet I saw real looks of enjoyment on the people on each page. When I heard Brian I turned to him, seeing him in a different light then just a co-working. I shook my head as I saw him naked when I first turned to him. "We need to study this book before we turn it in." I thought for a moment. "I can get it past the guards, can you meet me at my home. Better yet let us leave together after work, catch a bite to eat and then go to my apartment. How does that sound". I have always believed that Elizabeth was a strong woman, but this move to take the book out of the library was stunning. Was she possessed by this book? I guess I could understand if she was. Something powerful was stirring in me too." How are you going to get it past the guards?" I wanted so much for her to do it, but my fear level was obviously higher than hers. I looked at Elizabeth and for the first time had thoughts about the body that was under the uniform. Did her breasts look like those in the illustrations? I shake my head. Why am I thinking about her body. Bodies, as we are taught, are only the vehicles to care our brains around. No one cares about bodies except to take care of it so it can do its job. Breasts for fun and pleasure? Wow, what a thought! I grin at the thought. It was pretty funny. But maybe....... How was I going to get the book out, that was a good question that Brian had asked. I paced and thought for a while, and then it struck me where to hide it. I lifted her skirt not thinking about the fact that Brian was right there looking at my half clad body. Furthermore, I stuck the book in the girdle that every female was required to wear, why I did not know, but it sure could hold a book good. Furthermore, I smiled and looked at Brian, and then it struck me as I watched his eyes looking all over my lower torso. Furthermore, I dropped the skirt and turned away from him. Deep heat filled me with shame as I walked away from him. I'm not sure who was blushing more. I could see Elizabeth turn red, and I sure felt flushed. Furthermore, I had to consciously tell myself to close my mouth. Seeing her bare legs and undergarments right after the "Joys" I would be a dunce not to put the two together in my mind." Good idea Elizabeth. It's just 40 minutes to quitting time. We can leave together so that the monitors (human and computer) will be less likely to notice the book leaving." I needed a few minutes to try to understand what was happening. This was definitely outside any training I had been given. I had read a few romance novels that gave me some clue about "sexual attraction" but this book was so much more." Let's meet by the door as usual" I see her naked thighs.... just like those wrapped around the guy in the book. I want to see them again... and I want... Heck, I shouldn't go there! I had to get passed what I just did and when Brian spoke I turned toward him. "Good idea Elizabeth. It's just 40 minutes to quitting time. We can leave together so that the monitors (human and computer) will be less likely to notice the book leaving." I thought for a moment. "Yes but where shall we go, your place or mine. We need to research this together. I find this very interesting but confusing too. The state says there is no pleasure to sex, but the faces in this book look very pleased. Don't you agree, Brian"? I thought for a moment of the book pressing against her naked skin, I just hoped it didn't drop out as we passed the guard. My mind wandered back to those pictures and I felt a rush of excitement as Brian spoke. "Let's meet by the door as usual"I nodded my head at Brian and for the first time let my eyes travel over his broad body. I stopped myself feeling funny about what I was doing. "Let's continue our work until it is time to go, or it will seem like ever". I quickly headed for my station feeling all fluttery. "We can go to my place after we get some dinner." I head back to work. A recurring image in my brief glances at the books was that the man's penis was standing out straight. I didn't understand how that could happen when I wasn't scheduled to procreate. Before quitting time I had time to do some research. Something didn't make sense here, I was stimulated mentally, but where was the physical response. I remembered some old pharmacology books I had reviewed a year ago. I found out about research from decades ago where drug companies, before the state controlled all drugs, were learning how to help a man get an erection. Well, if they knew how to help, they might also know how to hinder. The light went off in my head - IT'S THE VITAMINS. We are all get vitamin supplements to take daily, and they sure do add to our health. But I bet there is more going on. I'm not taking mind tonight with dinner. I imagine my penis standing out hard and stiff. That is a powerful thought. Every time I opened a book, I found that what I read was not absorbed in my mind. I was seeing those images constantly. I just couldn't focus on my work. The book pressed against my body reminding me that it was there. It was no longer cold, it contained the heat from my body and as I moved it moved against me, letting me know it was there. Time dragged, and I found myself looking at the clock. If security were to be watching me surely they would suspect I was doing something wrong, which I was. I held the book in front of my faced and counted to 20 before turning the page. I kept this up until it was check out time. Furthermore, I opened the bottom drawer of my desk and grabbed my purse. Furthermore, I took time to go to the bathroom as I did not want to appear that I was not following my usual routine. As I approached the exit to the room, I saw Brian coming. We nodded at each other as we did every night, and he stopped like he did every night to let me go first. The guard held out his hand and I gave him my purse. It always angered me to see him pawing at my things. It was even worse when it was that time of the month. The man delighted in embarrassing me in front of all the males there. He handed me my purse and got out of my way. I hated the way he always looked me up and down. I did not believe that was a normal security thing as the other guards never did that. I walked slowly as I always do not want to look any different from any other night when I heard the guard yell. "Stop” I tensed for a moment and then relaxed myself and turned to look at him questioningly. "You dropped your handkerchief" He walked over to me and put it in my hand taking time to caress my cold hand. "Cold hands, warm heart, is that true for you Elizabeth." The look on my face was that of shock as he walked away laughing. I hurried out of the door, down the stairs and through the outside doors. Then I slowed so that Brian could catch up with me. It's always annoyed me how the guards treated Elizabeth, but tonight I was furious. I felt protective. That is new. As I caught up with Elizabeth outside the door, I touched her on the shoulder. That is new too. Something is coming over me." You did that very well, I'm impressed. Would you like to eat some Italian food? I know of a place close by that has those circular type booths that would give us the privacy to flip through the book during dinner" I presumed she had the same need to she is more that I did. "You game?" I hope I am not coming across too eager, but I actually am. Uncharted territory we are in. I felt a strange weakness in my knees as Brian touched my shoulder. I did not know what it was but thought maybe it was because I needed my vitamin. Furthermore, I stopped for a minute and took out the bottle and as I was about to pop one in my mouth, Brian knocked it out of my hand. Furthermore, I frowned as he grabbed my arm and stirred me to the restaurant he had suggested. Furthermore, I could not even ask him why he did that as he guided me into the place and to a table in the back and in the corner. I was amazed as I sat down, and he prodded me to move around the circular booth with his hands, touching me like no other man had ever done before. The waiter came, and he ordered for us both not even giving me a choice. What had gotten into him, I thought? I looked at him in amazement as he lifted my skirt and took the book out from under my girdle. A soft moan slipped out of my lips as his fingers touched my soft flesh. I am feeling different. Assertive. I like it. I am on a mission now, and there is something deep inside, deep and low, that is driving me. As I pulled the book out from Elizabeth's sweet hiding place I felt so good touching her. Her soft warm flesh was enticing. The smell of her body intoxicating. The sight of her bare skin entrancing. I wanted to touch her more, but the time was not yet ripe for that. I ordered food and a bottle of wine for us. Furthermore, I felt impatient. Very impatient. That is unusual for me." Sorry about the vitamins. I have a theory. I think there may be something in the vitamins that keeps up from being too excited about what's in the book. Furthermore, I'm thinking maybe we can find some unusual enjoyment from what the book has to teach us. Are you game?" I flipped open the book on the bench between us. The book's image was of a man licking a woman's vulva. "I think there may be something here that you will enjoy..... very much" Both my eyebrows rose as he apologized for the vitamins and not his bold removal of the book from my girdle. It was as if he felt that he had a right to touch me like that and lift my skirts or do whatever he liked. I would have to watch Brian for any other kinds of familiar behavior. My mind quickly grabbed onto the idea that the vitamins could very well make her not feel excitement. I had always wondered why I was so calm. When Brian asked me if I was game to learn from the book, I nodded my head. I had completely scratched out the statement that maybe we could find unusual enjoyment. When Brian flipped open the book and put it between us on the seat, I looked at a man licking a woman's vulva and got a strange feeling between my legs like something there was hard and throbbing. I gasped as I felt fluids rush out of me and wet my panties, I closed my legs tightly, but that did not help as the feeling increased with the pressure of my legs, so I relaxed and allowed my legs to open a bit. "Is it warm in here". Brian just grinned and got that I told you so look on his face. I could feel a rush of heat on my face as the waiter delivered the food, Brian secretly shut the book and quietly put it behind his back. We ate in silence as I did not know what to say. Brian kept filling my glass and when we were ready to leave I felt quite out of control. When we got outside, Brian's arm went around my waist to keep me on my feet. He guided me quickly to his apartment house and up the stairs to his apartment. I felt like a man possessed. Something foreign was driving me. I was a little embarrassed for how roughly I have been treating Elizabeth. I was lost in this but driven to find the secret "Joy". Not knowing the romantic way to act, substituted rough. Not taking the vitamin at the designated time, before dinner, I had hope for some immediate or miraculous effect on my penis, no such luck. After drinking too much wine I went to the newsroom. As I stood at the urinal I looked down, imagining a full on erection. I sure hope it will happen. I was surprised to see that my normally limp penis had swollen a bit, not to stiffness but at least a little bit bigger than normal. That is very encouraging. Is it warm in here? Click to expand... I smile because she must be feeling what I am feeling. I'm guessing the vitamins have something that limits blood flow, and we are feeling a flushed effect that we have never felt before. Furthermore, I'm also hoping this effect will contribute to "Joy." Not knowing what to say I guide the slightly tipsy Elizabeth to my apartment. I like holding her as we go. I like the physical contact, the closeness, I want more. When get to my apartment I request 20th century jazz on my music system, a slightly warm and dry "desert evening" environment from that system, an illumination program called "Relaxed," and the privacy mode for the window coverings." Would you like a glass of water or something else to drink?" I was feeling dry and wanted water. I pulled the book out from under my jacket and set it gently on the coffee table. "Please take a seat" I pointed to the overstuffed sofa I had spent too much currency on. My eyes ran up and down Elizabeth's body trying to imagine what was hidden. I was feeling thirsty myself and a bit dizzy. "Yes, some nice ice water would be good, Brian. As he left the room, I picked up the book and slowly thumbed through it. I found the dizziness growing, so I laid down on the overstuffed couch. It felt so good against my body. I didn't realize the skirt of my dress had risen up to my knees as I laid on my back with the book held before me. I came to an interesting picture with the man holding the woman, his front to her back and his sex was pushed deep into hers. Furthermore, I was looking at this picture when Brian came back. Furthermore, I could hear him put the glasses on the table. Furthermore, I felt the couch depress as he sat beside my body. Suddenly the skirt of my dress was pushed up to my waist and the girdle and underwear was stripped away from me. I tried to sit and felt Brian between my legs. I put the book down and looked at him. "What are you doing". When I returned with the water I saw her with her knees up on the sofa. I could see in her dress up her thighs. That seemed like an invitation to me. This powerful drive kept coming over me. I turned into an animal. I just had to get at Elizabeth's vagina. Pulling off her undergarments, I reached down to feel her sex then pushed back to she is. What are you doing? Click to expand... "I don't really know. I just know I want your vagina. Does it feel good when I touch it? What does the book say about touching?" I'm not sure what I want, but I know I really want it badly. I could feel something going on in my pants, but nothing like an erection. "Would you like to touch my penis?" Please say yes. I thumbed through the book looking for a chapter on touching. I found it and started to read feeling heat between my legs as I knew Brian was looking at my sex. As I turned to tell him what it said, he sat down by my outer thigh and placed his hand to my sex and I dropped the book. It was amazing what I felt as he rubbed something down there that made me feel a need to press harder into his hand and I did. His finger pressed against an area that allowed him to enter into me. He pushed my legs further apart and rode on that little nub and put his finger in and out of my channel. As I pulled at the couch and moved my feet against it, I found I was wild with the excitement of it all. Brian pulled his finger out of me and used that hand to unbutton my top as he swirled his finger around that little nub. I groaned loudly, and before I knew it my top was open, and a breast was pulled out of my bra. His mouth came down on it, and he began to suck the nipple, I groaned loudly. I don't know when he removed his pants and underpants, but his hand grabbed mine and brought it to his penis. I opened my eyes surprised by its hugeness and hardness, yet the skin of it was soft. His hand over mine show me how to stroke it and I did leave him free to explore my body with that last hand as his mouth and other hand still worked hard on me. Elizabeth's sex was warm and wet. It felt like home, like a place I wanted to be, wanted to stay. I noticed that one spot near the top was particularly sensitive, so I rubbed it more. It worked. I was amazed at the slipperiness of her opening and the ease of putting my fingers in. First one finger, then two, finally three fingers were fit in tightly. I wanted to make sure I was not hurting her, but by the look on her face pain was not at all the feeling this was giving her. Elizabeth's breast was firm and her nipple hard. It just seems to draw my mouth to it. I sucked, swirled my tongue around it, licked at it. It all seemed to give her pleasure. It sure was fun for me. I managed to unhook her bra and go after the other breast. Mmm they are so wonderful to lick and squeeze. Elizabeth's hold on my penis was maybe a little too firm, but the movement up and down was unlike anything I had ever felt, better than anything I had ever felt. I pumped my hips into her hand to add more motion. I concentrated on rubbing her super spot quickly but very lightly. It was having a real effect. I dropped on my knees between her legs and substituted mu tongue and lips for my finger on her spot. I flicked it, lapped it, sucked it, pubic hair tickling my nose. All of it seemed to work for her. I kept sliding fingers in and out of her. I kept it up. She seemed to be building up more and more. I never felt such excitement as Brian did such wonderful things to me. I felt him thrusting his penis into my hand as I stroked it. Suddenly he pulled away, and I felt a bit empty without his penis in my hand. I gasped as I felt his mouth and tongue on my little nub and his fingers sawing into me rapidly. I was groaning and moaning loudly wanting something else and not to sure what it was. Furthermore, I felt a tightness in my tummy and perspiration dotted my body as I panted then it happened, an explosion of fluids came from deep within me and I shook from top to bottom. Brian lapped that stuff up like it was some sort of cream exciting me even more. When he drew away, he lifted me up a bit and divested me of all my clothing. He carried me to his bedroom and began to touch my nub again. He stopped for a minute and took off his own clothing. I stared at his nude body amazed at how muscular he was. When he got on the bed he kisses me, and what a kiss it was, pressure and nips to her lips opened them so he could press his tongue inside my mouth. His tongue played with mine as his hands roamed freely over my body exciting me. He raised himself over my body and pressed against it rubbing against me with his hard muscular body. It felt wonderful. Being naked together in my bedroom I felt a strong desire to get my penis inside of Elizabeth. If her hand had felt so good, her wet warm vagina would be amazing, and I had to think it would feel very exciting for her too. I mover her to the edge of the bed and leaned her back, climbing on top of her feeling an almost electrical excitement through the contact of our flesh. Somehow kissing inspired me to get our tongues in contact and that was a joy. I got my knees in between hers and dropped between her legs as they spread apart. I tried to poke my hardness inside her, but she was squirming around, and it just wouldn't go in. Furthermore, I leaned over to one side, so I could grab my hardness and guide it to her entrance. As I pushed forward with my hips I looked into her eyes. The feeling of being engulfed by her sex was stunning. I started to move it in and out. So fine. The best feeling I have ever had. I got my knees in between hers and dropped between her legs as they spread apart. I tried to poke my hardness inside her, but she was squirming around, and it just wouldn't go in. Furthermore, I leaned over to one side, so I could grab my hardness and guide it to her entrance. As I pushed forward with my hips I looked into her eyes. The feeling of being engulfed by her sex was stunning. I started to move it in and out. So fine. The best feeling I have ever had. I felt Brian between my legs while his body seemed to be pinning me down. A touch of fear came over me as his penis prodded at the entrance of my sex. He kept on missing mostly because of why I was squirming around. Wanting but not wanting to be taken, it was a mixed bag for me. Finally, Brian took command and held his shaft to my entrance. As he pressed into me, he looked into my eyes. I was sure he could see the sudden fear in me. Brian pushed further into my channel and began to rock. Each rock brought him further into me until I felt a sudden pain and tried to push him off me. He was like a rock that I could not move off of me. There was an obstruction inside of me, that would not let him through. I got a bit cocky thinking he could not get through that wall. I couldn't understand why I wasn't going in. Maybe she didn't have the depth to accept my hardness. M penis sent sensations to my brain that were euphoric. But as I looked into Elizabeth's eyes I knew something was wrong." What am I doing wrong. I want to go in farther. Doesn't it feel good for you?" I pulled my penis out, very confused. My instinct had not served me well." Do we need to read about this?" I was really frustrated. When I saw Brian's frustration, I felt bad that I knew something he did not know. But I wasn't sure I wanted to give up my hymen. But still he had made me feel good to a certain point. This last act was hard for me to accept. I looked into his frustrated eyes and finally told him what was wrong." I read it in the book, I am a virgin, there is a membrane inside of me that is called a hymen, it has to be broken in order for your penis to have full entry. It will hurt me for you to break it. I think we better forget about this whole thing." I started to get up, but Brian pushed me down. When I looked into his eyes I knew he was not going to stop. I scooted up the bed and off the side of it looking for an avenue of escape. I'm not doing to be stopped now. Furthermore, I want this, and it is going to happen now. I grabbed Elizabeth's wrist and spun her around." I can not believe that this hymen thing will hurt so much that you won't enjoy the sex. Furthermore, I see those pictures. She is obviously feeling the joy too." I steadily pushed her back onto the bed, laying my forearm across her upper chest to hold her down as I put my rigid penis back into her. I then held her muscular hips as a pushed down with all my weight into her. Furthermore, I felt the resistance then pop I was in, into her tight wet tunnel. Furthermore, I started pumping my cock in and out with long strokes, almost pulling out then all the way in to where are pelvis's collided. It was very forceful, I was not giving her the choice to stop. I really thought I was going to get away, but Brian crushed that thought as he spoke I knew I was not going to win this one. "I can not believe that this hymen thing will hurt so much that you won't enjoy the sex. I see those pictures. She is obviously feeling the joy too." I couldn't believe he was holding me on the bed with one arm so that I could not get away. I opened my mouth to tell him to stop when he put his penis inside the opening of my vagina. Furthermore, I was more than a little shock by the invasion. Then he grabbed my hips and used his weight and leverage to come down hard inside me. I screamed as my hymen broke. He did not even give me time to breath but began pumping his penis in and out of me. He would pull back so that his penis was almost out and then slam back in. Soon the pain changed to overpowering pleasure and I began to groan wildly. I moved my hips to move his, and he let go of them and laid down on my body and began to suck my breast paying real attention to my nipple. He pressed both of my breast together so he could suck my nipples together making me go wild and slam my own body into his. I was panting like a dog when I came hard, fluids soaked Brian's penis making it easier for him to go faster as he raised my legs to his shoulder so he had all the control of my body. I was pleased that Elizabeth moved from pain to pleasure, but more pleased that my newfound hardness had found the source of pleasure inside her. Playing with her breasts, sucking her hard nipples was a good beginning. Now with her legs up next to her face I was sliding in and out of her vertically pulling it out then dropping down inside in long slow strokes. My body and brain had yet to learn what an orgasm is, but I could feel the sensations building in intensity with each plunge into her tight wetness. The smell of her sex juices and our combined sweat was powerfully intoxicating. I flipped her legs over to the side and rolled her onto her stomach, trying another angle to attack her sweet hole. Flat on the bed and legs spread I pushed into her again. My cock head felt the added friction of the position. I was in heaven. Brian rolled me over onto my stomach, my legs were wide open almost lewd as he pressed into my tunnel again. I had no way to assist him in this position, but I groaned loudly with passion as his penis entered and exited my tunnel at high speed, It felt erotic what he was dinging. I was groaning wildly as he pounded into me. Furthermore, I wanted deeper penetration and clawed my way onto my hands and knees and backed toward him. He grabbed me quickly and pounded me wildly. I was lost in the wonderful feeling when my eyes flicked opened. I felt Brian poke his finger into my anus. Furthermore, I bucked at him trying to get it out of me, but he held me fast. "Stop that" Elizabeth was acting like a wild animal, so out of character for the reader I had known. AS she pushed up on all fours, I found it easier to thrust deeper and faster. I grabbed her hips and forced our repeated collisions. I could feel a different kind of rubbing on my penis. It seemed to be focused on the head part, on the top side of the head. I was feeling the "Joy"I started to wonder about the other hole that I had access to from behind her. I put my finger into it, but she didn't seem to like it. "Stop that" Click to expand... Well, she had said wanted me to stop before I entered her vagina, and now she's enjoying that, maybe her anus would be the same. The problem was it was so tight on my finger I'm not sure if I can enter her without her cooperation. "I want to slide my penis in your anus. Help me do it." Reluctantly I pulled out of her vagina and lightly pressed the tip of my hardness on her puckered anus hole. It was going nowhere without her help. I didn't waste my breath with words as I tried to crawl away from Brian, but he had hands of steel, and I was getting nowhere fast. In my haste to get away from him, I pressed the top of my hand hard on the bed and slipped. My face plunged into the mattress and Brian pulled me back fast. I could feel his cock stab into my anus, and before I knew it Brian's cock was inside my ass to the hilt. I screamed into the mattress the pain was unbelievable, this was no joy I thought. I felt his hand move to my clit, he was thinking fast now I thought as his fingers began to rub the nub that gave me so much pleasure. Furthermore, I groaned in a state of pain and pleasure as his other hand moved to my channel and a finger dove deep within me moving in and out. Furthermore, I was panting now with all this stimulant when he pressed another finger into my channel and another and another. Then he began to saw in and out of me as his other hand rubbed my nub, soon I was completely relaxed and his cock in my anus did not hurt. When he started to move in and out of my ass, I groaned then met his thrusts boldly as I groaned wildly, cumming hard on his fingers as he pounded my ass and I helped him by meeting his strokes. How he could keep his fingers in me when I was cumming by the minute was beyond me. Given pleasure to Elizabeth heightened my pleasure, but I wanted more for myself. She was reaching some sort of peak pleasure from this sex, and I wanted it too. After working my fingers in and out of her and all around her pleasure spot until she was panting and gasping, I decided to put all my energy into working my penis in and out. I grabbed her hip bones firmly and began pulling her to me in rapid strokes. I could feel a sensation growing in my groin. Furthermore, I pulled her to me hard with each penetration so that our bodies smacked together loudly. Suddenly I felt an overwhelming urge to cram into her deep anus hole her even more violently. I could feel every nerve ending in my penis head as a wave of intense pleasure washed over me and I could feel something shooting out of my penis, shooting out about 4 times before the feeling subsided, and my penis became so sensitive that I had to stop with it pushed in as far as it would go, not letting go of her hips. That was incredible! I felt Brian grab my hips roughly but did not care as I was still coming unbelievably from the pounding I was getting. Now I was not assisting at all as Brian decided the force and speed as his penis ripped into my anus. I was groaning, grunting and panting like a bitch in heat as his strong hands pulled and pushed me forward and back hard and rough, and soon I was beyond human as this strange thing drove me into a powerful climax. I thought he would rip me apart, but strangely I kept intact if not mindless by lust. Finally, I felt his penis throb in my anus and something hot and wet seemed to boil up in him and pour into my rectum. It seemed to be too much for me to hold as I felt it stream out and cover my ass with wetness. I thought that Stan would never stop and if I was honest I would have to say I did not want him to stop. Four times he seemed to shoot the liquid into my anus and each time I groaned from the heat of it. Then he stopped abruptly and spoke. That was incredible! So it was done but still Brian held onto my hips. Somehow he managed to get me laid down, the front of my body pressed to the mattress as he laid on me. I could feel his penis start to shrink deep within my bowels as his hands came around me, lifting me a bit, so my breasts were firmly in his hands. He squeezed them making me moan. He must have liked the sound as he played with me, squeezing my large breasts whenever he wanted. I gave him no resistance but allowed him to use me as he pleased. After unloading my sex fluids into Elizabeth my overwhelming drive to pound her suddenly disappeared, replaced by a less intense desire for more physical contact, more experimentation. Her breasts fascinated me, maybe at a primal level. I grabbed them and squeezed them feeling the soft texture of the skin and the suppleness of the flesh. As I squeezed harder, Elizabeth winced and groaned. Oddly, I found that stimulating. Aware that my penis was in a place not completely clean, I slipped my diminished manhood out of her anus noticing the oozed of white Guianese that followed, leaned back and slipped to the floor pulling her by the upper arm to come with me." Let's shower off." I said as I again pulled her to toward my large shower area. "Then we can start over!" I felt pretty good considering all that had happened to me. I took note of how aggressive Brian had become. It was like he thought he was my master, and I was not entirely happy about that, in fact, I was a little annoyed by his attitude that he owned me. As he pulled out of my rectum I felt a bit of discomfort. Suddenly Brian started squeezing both of my breast hard. It strangely hurt and gave pleasure, but before I could complain to him, he pulled me up next to him and decided we needed a shower. I wasn't adverse to that but his statement that we start all over kind of threw me, and he pulled me into the bathroom, put on the shower and railroaded me under the water with him. He started to wash me of all things. So shocked was I buy this behavior that I just stood there like a ninny and allowed him to wash ever square inch of me. He seemed to be taking great care of my behind and rectum, even digging in there to get it clean. As he moved to my sex I backed away but a hand behind me soon put me in my place. He was much more stronger than I was so all I could do was resign myself to the fact that he would have his way with me no matter what. The cloth to my sex started to stimulate me and I groaned loudly then looked at him annoyed, but he kept it up until I was weak from the pressure of as I realized his bare hand, fingers delving deep within my channel. I could fight him no longer as he took total control of me. Elizabeth's body fascinated me. It was so smooth, so soft. I reveled in the ability to wash her entire body. I began to get excited again, and I noticed that washing her sex area seems to have an effect on her too. Again I got the "no, well yes" response to my touching her. I surely did not want the no answer. Never the no answer. My penis grew hard as I stimulated her sex by working my fingers in and out and by rubbing her tiny mound of pleasure. Elizabeth was getting excited, I like that. She is eager when excited. Then, I pulled my fingers back and look into her eyes, "I want you to take my hardness into your mouth, I want you to make it feel good." And I put the weight of my hands on her shoulders to mover her head down to where she could swallow my rigidity. "I want it now." I was getting so excited by Brian's hands on my body. As he washed my sex after I gave him sort of hard time saying no and then yes, his eager fingers rubbed my clit making me groan in pleasure. He did not seem to like being told know to any of his suggestions about sex. His fingers began to plunge in and out of my sex and his other hand's fingers played with the little bump that drove me crazy. I could see his penis growing harder and harder as I groaned louder with deep pleasure. When he pulled his hands away I looked into his eyes as he spoke. "I want you to take my hardness into your mouth, I want you to make it feel good." I was shocked by his request which was actually a demand as I shook my head no, he pushed me downward to the cubical's floor and demanded roughly. "I want it now." He was demanding now, I had seen this several times but had paid no attention to it as he usually demanded something I wanted to do. I did not want to do this. I started to get up and Brian pressed me back to the floor and held his hand to the back of my head. He moved closer to me and pressed his cock against my lips. I refused to open my mouth. His hand tightened on my jaw, and he squeezed until my mouth opened. She pushed his cock roughly in my mouth and began to pound it with his cock. Sometimes he would go to deep and choke me as his cock slipped into my throat. He was showing me no mercy and I swore if I got out of this one, I was going home. I was surprised that Elizabeth hesitated when I asked for her to take my penis in her mouth. I had to be persuasive with physical effort so that she would do it. Furthermore, I know she wants to. Why would she hesitate. Her mouth felt good on my hardness. I could feel the head of my penis rub against the roof of her mouth as it got farther in. I could feel her tongue underneath. Sometimes her teeth rubbed on the shaft and it did not feel good at all. I held her head, so I could thrust into her mouth. I could feel the tightness of the back of her mouth as I entered her throat, but that gagged her. Furthermore, I would pull out as she spit saliva out and then push back in deep trying to get my penis head moving in and out of her tight throat entrance. Furthermore, I put one hand under her chin and another on the back of her head to get a strong hold on her to force myself into her throat repeatedly. She had tears on her face. It felt so fine deep in her face. Brian was frightening me as he continued to pound his penis in my mouth. Then he held my face in such a way that I could not move as his cock raped my mouth with no mercy. I felt tears of humiliation course down my face but as he looked at my face they seemed to inflame him, and he moved his cock in and out of the entrance of my throat, I thought I would choke, but I didn't. "Are you going to suck my penis now, voluntarily or do I continue this pounding". I blinked my eyes twice to acknowledge I would do it. That was better than being used like this but promised myself I would leave after I did this act when he was weak, and I could dress and leave. He pulled out of my mouth as I adjusted myself on my knees and took his penis into my hand. I moved around the circumference of his penis with my mouth munching it softly as I pressed my tongue against the top of his penis. I heard him groan with pleasure and opened my mouth wider and began licking and sucking the shaft of his penis as I move slowly down it. Furthermore, I went as far as I could with my mouth and placed my hand where I could not reach and stroked it. Furthermore, I moved back up his penis licking the underside of his cock as I went. As I reached the top and began sucking his cock and went down his shaft. I altered my strokes to be the opposite of what my mouth was doing. I kept his up for quite a while, and then I took my mouth off of his cock as his loose balls had hardened. Furthermore, I wanted to see this closer, so I dipped my head still stroking his penis and placed my mouth over one ball licking and sucking it. Furthermore, I released it and took the other ball in my mouth, he was groaning loudly now as I moved the broad of my tongue all over his ball. Furthermore, I could fell his cock throbbing in my hand as I worked over his sex. Then suddenly he pulled me off of his balls and grabbed my hair roughly. I opened my mouth to scream, and his cock was in my mouth and his hand clutched my hair using it to control my movements. I'm glad Elizabeth was willing to work my penis in her mouth without too much persuasion. She did a nice job. Giving my penis sensations I never believed possible. I'm not sure what she did, but when she boobed her head in and out while stroking the shaft with her hand, it started to build up to that feeling of climax I had earlier. I wanted more of that! Then she stopped that and started licking around my balls. Again the sensation was mind-blowing. So intensely delightful. I just let her do her thing. Then I felt the climax thing building close to the top. I wanted the warmth of her mouth around my penis. I pushed it into her forcefully wanting that tight feeling at the back of her mouth. Furthermore, I pulled her head to me as I thrust forward feeling all the nerves in my penis explode as I pumped my fluid into her throat. As it became too intense to handle, I stopped with my penis head in her throat holding her head as she fought to pull back. God, that is a good feeling climaxing in her throat. I want more of this. I was getting mad as he forced his penis to my throat again, but soon I had more important things to worry about as his penis erupted like a laser and I had to concentrate on swallowing his climax. Furthermore, I thought I would drown but after the first intense wave of climax, the next wave was less and so was the next wave less until it became like a trickle, and I was saved from drowning. But he did not back out of my mouth. He held me so I felt his penis shrink. Why he did that I did not know but by the time he did release me, I was ready to go home. I gave him a nasty look as I went to the bathroom to wash my mouth out and teeth with anger. Men I thought, I hate them. That was one of the best experiences of my life. It shook my whole body. Elizabeth looks at me as if I had done something wrong. That made me angry. We were just having some fun. When she stepped into the bathroom to wash up I snapped a couple pictures of her standing naked and sent them to my online storage. They might come in handy to help persuade Elizabeth to play with me." Would you like some fruit juice? You look tired." I looked at him coldly as he asked me if I wanted some juice. "No, I am going home, thank you". I finished washing out my mouth and washed my body quickly and then went into the room to look for my clothing. I couldn't find them and looked at him accusingly as he stood naked with a smirk on his face. Furthermore, I knew he had hidden them. "Where are my clothing, Brian".

Age of Discovery - Open|rating:2.0

The Obsidian Guild (IC)

This is the official thread for The Obsidian Guild.IOC Thread Current Player/Character list:Lampblack -New-SheetVolos -Neltharaku-Sheet--------------------------------------------------------------------First IC post will be up shortly. Today is the twelfth day of the month of the hare and despite the drizzle and fog of the past week, the sun has risen in all its brilliance, glimmering off the drops of dew that cling to the leaves and spider webs. It could almost be considered a hopeful day with the warmth of late spring and none of the humidity of summer. The gentle breath of fresh flowers and plentiful grass wafts through the freshly cleaned streets almost allowing one to forget that he is in the center of the largest city of the region. The cries of street vendors and the murmuring babble of conversation from the passersby give a joyful sound to a city that has been too long hidden inside, huddled by firesides in their quest to stay dry. The stately elms that line the King’s Highway and lead up to the expansive park are alive with the sounds of larks and wrens as they too express their pleasure over the refreshing rays of the sun. All in all, it is a good day to be alive, and the city is calm with an expectant peace and tranquility. Well. . . Except in the Obsidian Guild.“WHAT DO YOU MEAN, YOU LOST THE SHIPMENT!” The two of you are standing outside the door of Ambrose Tag’s personnel office. You were summoned about half an hour earlier and told that your presence was required. Although normally a very even tempered man, Ambrose can have a low tolerance for incompetence, and you can not help but feel sorry for the unfortunate man inside who has apparently let him down. The door to his office is quite thick and solid, but even so, you can overhear bits of the conversation.“Those two crates were worth twenty-five hundred gold and I can not afford to lose them!” Several stammered excuses follow, but Ambrose talks over them.“I hope for your sake that some of my other associates are able to repair your errors. You will be confined to barracks duty until the shipment is recovered or reimbursed. That is all.” The door opens hurriedly, and a shaken man stumbles out, shaking his head in worry. He glances over at the two of you as he walks past and mutters something under his breath. The aide who summoned you here shake his head and then waves you into the office. The office is an eccentric collection of artifacts from the world over, ranging from what rumor says to be a vial of the deadly Funds Regis poison from Icarus to various weapons, elaborate Intersil boxes, bundles of bronze keys, bolts of strangely colored fabric, a shrunken head tattooed in vivid shades of red and green, stacks of ancient coins depicting rulers no longer remembered, and a vast collection of other miscellaneous items. Ambrose himself sits behind a large but plain oaken desk with a neat stack of papers in one corner, a gold and ruby dagger lying by his right hand, and a small leather bag tied neatly with a bit of string. Four glossy black candles are placed in the corners of the room, and they give a brilliant steady light to the office. It is said that the candles are magical and made of pure obsidian. Ambrose is said to be nearly fifty, but he is in wonderful shape, quite fit both physically and mentally, and his hair, though beginning to turn white, is still largely the reddish brown of his youth. Only standing a bit over five and a half feet, he is nevertheless an imposing figure with piercing blue eyes and a face the only reveals what he wants it to. It is said that you can lie to Ambrose. . . But only once, and most do not bother to test the truth of the saying. Although certainly wealthy, Ambrose is not ostentatious preferring to dress in a simple tunic of obsidian colored silk draped over a custom suit of Matt black chain mail. Simple black leather boots complete his outfit. He strokes his beard gently with his hand as he looks up at you.“Ah, I’m so glad to see you at last. I apologize if I kept you waiting beyond the bounds of common courtesy. Pray, take a seat and make yourselves comfortable. You are not known for stupidity, so I’m sure you’ve already gathered that I have a task for you, and you would not be mistaken. But first, how does this morning find you both? Well, I trust?” Next middle-aged human male sits in the seat furthest from the office door, scribbling on a worn piece of parchment periodically while they wait. His head is clean-shaven and along with his dark, form-fitting clothing, it serves to exaggerate his already slim figure. Still, despite his size he carries an air of innate superiority. Though he carries no weapons, New closely watches the defeated man as he scurries past them and matches the quiet muttering with his own." Worm." Upon hearing the click of the outer door close, he stands and enters the office as beckoned. With a smile as unnatural as the tumor beating in his chest, he takes his seat and speaks." Nothing to speak ill of... I've been quite looking forward to an opportunity like this. It's nice to break away from the peddlers at the bazaar every so often." Nex takes a moment to shift his gaze toward Neltharaku so that he may enter the conversation. NeltharakuThe younger of the two men was dressed, as always, in the fine clothes of a Courtier with all the appropriate jewelry to match. There was a small circle of darkened wood on his left wrist but no armor nor weapons could be seen on his person. Long hair of a dark red color framed his face and at times shadowed it from unwanted light. His crimson hued eyes held no remorse for the fool who had not only wasted Ambrose's time but his money as well. A sigh could be heard as Neltharaku took his seat, his hand partway covering the right side of his face." Such foolishness. I could give him a more befitting punishment if you wanted Tag." His hand drops to the arm of the chair as he starts to give a sickly grin from just thinking about it." I agree with New, getting away from the everyday would be welcomed. A fair deal of coin wouldn't hurt either." Ambrose nods at New, "Just so". His icy blue eyes gaze at Neltharaku next,"I am quite capable of discipline my own associates, but I shall keep your offer in mind". "At any rate, here is my dilemma. Our dear friend, Skip Polios, was delivering two cases of Icarian brandy to a farmer on the outskirts of town when apparently a band of outlaws or some such waylaid him and seized the shipment. Of course, Skip was overwhelmed after so much ruthless fighting that he has nary a scratch on him. . . Regardless, I need the brandy recovered. I have no idea how a farmer is able to afford such goods, but that's hardly my business. Skip claims that he was attacked about three miles outside the city, on his way to Gerald Bayley's farm. I'm putting the matter into your hands, and I trust you'll be able to resolve it." He leans back in his chair for a second before lazily opening his eyes and gazing at Neltharaku." Oh yes, coin. A fair bit, I believe you were wishing for? I always pay my share as you should know by now. I'll be generous and give you an extra share for dealing with any outlaws you might come across. Twenty percent for recovery and safe delivery of the goods." He slides the leather bag across the table with a faint clacking sound." Here is an advance of two hundred gold. You get the rest when you finish the job. Any questions?" Relevant Background Information Spoiler Hide Icarian Brandy Spoiler Hide Icarian Brandy is a potent hallucinogenic alcohol that is distilled by the Harriet from the berries of the Black Friar shrubs. The berries are plump and black (resulting in the jest that they look just like Black Friars) and distantly related to grapes. While possessing little in the way of appealing flavor, the spirit distilled from them is highly valued and high illegal. It causes the user to experience wild and bizarre visions, suffer delusions and other mental effects. Users often try to do impossible feats, such as flying (falling) off a building or picking a fight with someone much stronger than themselves. Gerald Bayley Spoiler Hide There are vast tracts of farmland to the east of Kolding with many small farms and a few landlords who possess large holdings. While you know little of Gerald, you have heard his name before. He is one of the larger landlords and has done some minor business with the guild before, but nothing as potent or expensive as Icarian brandy. Guild: Cuts and Payments Spoiler Hide For doing standard business, the guild sells its products at 100% markup. An item that has a base price of 50 gold would sell for 100 gold through the guild. Of the total price, the local guild organization takes 30% for operating expenses, administration, bribes, and other fees. The leader of the guild (in this case, Ambrose) takes 10% and the other 10% is the cut given to the operative who handles the delivery of the goods to the customer. When dealing with an especially dangerous item or if it needs to be delivered in a hazardous situation, the operative gets a 20% cut. This is all very general, and depending on the availability of the product, the number of people who need to transport it, bribes, acts of the gods, etc., the prices and cuts can all vary considerably. Neltharaku"I'm game, but not a scratch on the lad?" Neltharaku's expression was... well it wasn't. He wasn't leaning one way or the other toward believing or disbelieving Skip's tale. After s moment of thought he would continue,"What's to say Polios told you, in all honesty, that is what happened simply because he doesn't know better? Not all bandits use blades or strength to practice their craft. More likely that he's just a coward, but certain possibilities need to be considered." As he was saying all this, Neltharaku was taking time to split the gold in half with his associate. His hands were quick, and he piled the coins into equal height little towers so that measuring it was easier. He didn't need to be wasting Ambrose's time. It was obvious he wasn't counting the amount, simply separating it into two equal halves. Next takes a moment to consider the information presented while Netharaku speaks." I do not mean to question your reasoning, but why was an underling like Polios tasked with the delivery of such valuables by himself? As mighty as the Guild might be, surely something like this would have been considered possible in the three miles to the farm." Another moment of pause sparks his mind with one more question." With the current amount of evidence, both the buyer and the Currier are both possibly capable of scheming in their own right. Can we assume Skip to be expendable at this point?" "Despite the incompetence he has demonstrated, I feel that Skip was telling the truth: as far as he knew it anyway. Obviously there is always the possibility that arcane arts were used, but I expect that the two of you can come to the bottom of the matter." Ambrose leans away from you and coughs delicately into a linen handkerchief." I beg your pardon gentlemen. And in response to your question, brother New, I felt that Skip possessed the necessary skills to carry out the task, much in the same way I feel that you possess the skills to carry out the task I am assigning to you. Perhaps you are correct considering my judgement mistaken, but let us investigate the matter in more detail before drawing any assumptions. After all, calamity can overtake us all, and it is indeed possible that what befell him was something he could not have foreseen or contested." "Certainly there has been some scheming of some sort. Whether it was Skip, the buyer, someone else inside the guild, or another entity, we must find out. Our reputation depends on safe and timely delivery of the goods and services we provide, and any interruption is not to be tolerated. I expect you to find the cause behind this. . . Incident, and. . . Shall we say, remedy it? I leave it in your hands, but please, be discrete. We already spend far too much on bribes, and I'd rather not have to cover up another murder like the Geoff incident." Geoff Incident Spoiler Hide About a year ago, Ambrose suspected one of his suppliers of trying to sell extra bottles of Duskenfell wine to certain members of the nobility without going through the guild. Ambrose assigned him to be taught a lesson but instead, the supplier was ambushed in the city streets and instead of dying quickly, led his pursuers on a merry chase that ended with him dying in a bloody mess only a block from the Agent mansion. Captain Response led a major investigation, and it was only by exerting their considerable wealth and calling in most of their favors, that the guild was able to derail the investigation and prevent serious backlash. Since the incident, Ambrose has been very strict with ensuring that all "lessons" be dealt as subtly as possible. New"As you wish..." That said, he reaches forward and rakes his cut of the pay into his waiting hand and places it within the coin pouch at his side. Now looking to his new companion, he nods his head toward the door." Unless there is more information you feel will help us in the matter, I think beginning our investigation now is the wisest course of action." Neltharaku"It's a good thing then that I am not well known for my discreteness." Neltharaku shows a wide grin at his own word-play, knowing his employer well enough to assume that the man would get if not enjoy the humor. His tone turned more serious as the grin faded." Is there anything else? I believe we have enough to start our investigation with, unless you would be so kind as to allow us to use the fool to retrace his steps. If he can show us where he was attacked, it could be of great aid. We'd keep the boy cloaked for his and our protection." Ambrose nods at Neltharaku with a wry grin." I figured I'd give you a chance anyway. If you feel taking Skip along would assist, then feel free to do so. Try to return him as unharmed as you can manage. If this incident wasn't his fault, I may wish to make use of him in the future. I'm afraid I really have no further information for you, but I have full confidence in your abilities." He scribbles a note on a bit of parchment and hands it to you." This will place Skip Polios into your custody until further notice." He turns back to his papers and begins reading, the meeting apparently concluded.Spoiler Hide The road leading to the farm is on the east side of Kolding and about three miles long. As members of the guild, you can use the guild horses at no cost if you wish, or you can walk or arrange your own transportation. NeltharakuNeltharaku would take the paper, wishing to study it for his forgery research as well as wanting to present it to take custody of Skip. With a smirk and a slight bow he would exit. The man would wait just outside for New. Once his companion had exited as well he would say,"Where to first? Grabbing Skip could prove useful, but then we're stuck listening to his side of things. The farm isn't far from here, and if there are bandits targeting guild members we could be targeted and have this whole thing done immediately." Rematching Neltharaku's pace, New glances at the paper Ambrose gave them." There are many things to consider... but if we are going to have Polios come with us, sooner would be better. That way it prevents him from relaying any information if he does happen to be involved in some way." He waves his hand almost to dismiss the notion." And if he isn't, he'll at least be able to relay the details firsthand. Still, I would be wary of anything he claims to be fact." As you make your way out of the office, one of Ambrose's aides steps up beside you. He is a tall lanky fellow with an ashen face and stringy black hair. "Greetings, I am Harvey Origin. I was told to give you any assistance you might require. Is there anything I can help you gentlemen with?" He matches your pace and looks at you expectantly. NeltharakuOnce the man has asked what he can do for them, Neltharaku starts giving orders without hesitation." Horses, three of them. A cloak or something to cover a man's face without seeming too obvious that his identity is being concealed. And this man." With that last bit he holds up the piece of paper given to them by Ambrose that would turn Skip Polios over to their custody. While Harvey was busying himself with finding what Neltharaku asked for, the mage would turn to his companion to continue their conversation." Yes, either way having that man now is better than having him later. Whether he is in on this scheme, the only witness, or a target for one reason or another. He might believe what he is telling us, but that does not make it true. We can't hope that this will be as simple as finding a lost shipment." Immediately after Neltharaku is finished speaking, but before Harvey opens his mouth, New interjects." Quickly." With their new assistant being kept busy, he rejoins the conversation as well." So then shall our strategy involve us being inconspicuous and avoiding attention, or do we seek to draw their attention and hopefully bait another mugging?" Harvey listens attentively, takes the proffered piece of paper, and scurries off after assuring you that he will be back as soon as possible. He returns after several minutes followed closely by the prisoner. Polios is draped in a voluminous green cloak and a wide-brimmed floppy brown hat. Manacles still encircle his wrists and the expression on his face was far from being one of contentment and happiness." I've brought the prisoner as requested and took the liberty of assuming his identity was the one you were wishing to conceal. I trust the cloak and hat will suffice. Your horses are being saddled at the moment and should be ready by the time you reach the stables." He reaches into a deep pocket and draws out a small key. "This is for you, should you wish to remove the manacles. He is in your custody now. Is there anything else you desire assistance with?" From under the brim of his hat, you can see Polios glaring at you with unease and a bit of fear. Neltharaku"We can try to avoid suspicion, but if they are looking for targets they'll find us on their own regardless of our actions." The crimson haired man makes sure to re-obtain the paper from Harvey, figuring it would be awkward to be found walking a man about in manacles without proper cause or proof of custody." This will do just fine, as long as he cannot be recognized on sight." With a grin Neltharaku drops his voice to a deeper and more threatening tone." Hello Polios. You are going to show us where you were robbed and tell us what happened there... in great detail. Understand?" His diatonic lineage gave Neltharaku a marked advantage to this sort of manipulation. While trying toconvincePolvos to aid them, Neltharaku was studying the man's features for any hint as to what he was thinking or how he felt about all this. Spoiler Hide Diplomacy (For Intimidate) (1d20+9)[28] Perception (For Sense Motive) (1d20+11)[28] Rewatching Polios squirm in his manacles brought a thin smile to New's lips. There was no reason to interrupt Neltharaku's impressive show of dominance, so he would just walk alongside and wait for his opportunity. Spoiler Hide Perception:(1d20+8)[16] Watching for the sign of an outright lie Polios squirms uneasily as he tries to look Neltharaku in the eye, but after only a few seconds he is forced to avert his eyes and look away. He stares down at the stone tiled floor and takes a stumbling step backwards as he spews out a few phrases in a stuttering rush of words." I've already told Ambrose everything, and he questioned me for almost an hour, and it wasn't my fault, I already told him and he believed me! There was nothing I could do, really! I had the cases of Icarian Brandy packed on the horse and was leading it towards the farm. I was about half-way there, when I came across this huge ravine that just, you know, cut right across the path. It wasn't there a few days ago, you know, but it was there now, I swear it! I was thinking of how I was going to get the horse across, when suddenly I felt exhausted, but I wasn't falling asleep on duty! I had a good nights sleep, and I would never neglect my duty like that. Furthermore, I think it was a spell of some kind, but I didn't see anyone around. Furthermore, I closed my eyes for just a second, and the next thing I know, I'm lying in the woods a few dozen feet from the path with my horse tied to a tree next to me. The brandy was all gone and judging from the sun, nearly an hour had passed. I know this is hard to believe, but you've got to trust me! Anyway, the ravine was gone, I swear it on the honor of my mother, not a trace of it, just the normal path that has always been there. I looked around until dusk, and then came back here. I didn't know what else to do, and it wasn't my fault! Ambrose already made me tell him everything, and I would never lie to him, nor to you two either! Please don't hurt me. . . Please?" Polvos falls to his knees and looks up at Neltharaku with a pleading look in his eyes.IOC Info Spoiler Hide You both know that there is no ravine on the path to Gerald's farm. It is just a wide dirt path, worn smooth by years upon years of foot and horse travel. You also both get the sense that Polios is terrified of what the two of you might do to him and is very unlikely to mislead you or try to turn on you. Info for Lampblack: Spoiler Hide You are pretty convinced that he has told you the truth, or at least, as much of it as he knows. Info for Solos: Spoiler Hide For the most part, he seems to be telling the truth, but one part of his tale makes you a bit suspicious. You aren't positive, it's only the slight twitch of his eye and the tiniest pause in his torrent of words, but it's enough to make you think. His entreaty that he "told Ambrose everything" rings a bit false to you. You suspect that there may be a few elements of his story that have not reached the ears of Ambrose. NexT he necromancer stares at him unblinkingly during his tale, waiting for some sign of dishonesty. By the end he was rather surprised at Polios for not attempting to sway the story in his favor." Calm now, Skip. Know that your state of wellness at the end of this venture is going to be determined by the amount of cooperation we receive from you." He raises his hands, palms up, as if to weigh the choices." Follow our orders without question and I will insure a minimal amount of harm reaches you..." He raises his other hand." Give us any reason to doubt you and that promise disappears." Dropping one hand back down to his sides he reaches forward with the other to help the man up from his knees." Given your story, I have a feeling I know what we're up against." Spoiler Hide And here comes the good (Not as bad) cop Diplomacy:(1d20+9)[11] Polios takes his hand gratefully and stands up. "I am happy to help you however I can. After all, it's my name we're trying to clear. And if we find the brandy, I will remain indebted to you forever." He looks a bit quizzically at you as you finish your last phrase though. "Your secret is safe with me." NeltharakuNeltharaku gives a dark smirk, as if he was planning something terrible for Polios. I can ask him about that later, let him think he got away with it for now. The man would turn away from Polios and start walking toward the stables." I'm not interested in clearing your name, I'm interested in doing my job. Your wellbeing may be of my concern for as long as you remain useful. We're going to the spot where you were attacked." He had to remain tough of Polios to keep him terrified of what he might do to the man. Leading Polios before you, the two of you make your way down the hallways and passages that lead to your mounts. Opening the rough-hewn door of solid oak you are greeted by the sweet musty odor of a well-maintained stable. The fresh hay tossed in the mangers smells of long sunshine and warm summer days mingled with the earthy scent of fresh dirt, damp stone, airy wooden walls, and well-worn oiled leather. Shafts of bright yellow sunlight pierce their way through the windows of the stable, illuminating the dancing motes of dust and spreading their cheerful squares of warmth along the floor. As you enter, you see the familiar stalls to your left, and on the wall opposite the orderly chaos of reins, saddles, ropes, and all the other regalia for riding. A young but capable lad is seated on an old stump, worn shiny through years of use, polishing away at a bit of metal. He catches a glimpse of you out of the corner of his eye, and jumps to his feet." Ah, good morning sirs. Harvey told me you required three mounts, and I've picked out our best for you. They are saddled and waiting just outside. If you'll allow me. . ." He sets down his work and strides over to the outside door in long easy steps. Beckoning you to follow, he leads you out into the small enclosure just off the street. Three fine chestnut mares are standing patiently, their reins draped casually over the rail." Three horses worthy of you gentlemen, freshly groomed. Will your. . . Friend be remaining in his manacles? It might be difficult to avoid suspicion if he is wearing chains through the city." Neltharaku"New." He gives the man the key to Polios' bonds." Release our friend if you like. I can kill him with a word if he attempts to escape. If his story is true, he has naught to worry over and would have no reason to run. A guilty man would escape at first chance." Neltharaku turns his gaze to Polios for the first time since he intimidated the poor man." Trust me, but a word and you life is forfeit." With that he makes himself busy with mounting his steed, leaving New with the decision of what to do with their charge. Examining at the stable-boy he moves forward to remove the manacles, draping them from his belt." Mercy isn't exactly my strong suit, but it goes without saying what horrible fates await insubordination." Finally, he takes to his mount with some unease, as if he's never been in a saddle before. Leaning slightly forward with a sour look on his face, he looks to Neltharaku." Shall we be going then?" NeltharakuThe dragon blooded man simply nods to answer New's question. He doesn't bother keeping an eye on Polios, but keeps him within range of his non-visual senses while waiting for a good time to spook the poor man. If he could pick up on some sort of cue to tell him how to hold his reigns or something like that, it could keep him in line. The stable hand looks at New's discomfort and walks over to him. "My apologies' sir, but both you and the horse will be more comfortable if you lean slightly back and keep your head and shoulders up. And keep your heels down, it's more secure, and you won't get stuck should the horse spook." He carefully shows New the proper position and then tries to reassure him. "You'll be just fine. Show the horse that you're in charge, and you won't have any problems. It's well-trained, and shouldn't give you any trouble at all." Stepping back, he removes the reins from the rail and hands them to you. He reaches into a pocket and pulls out a few small lumps of sugar and gives them to your horse. "Get along then!" In a few moments you are out of sight of the stable and slowly trotting through the city. The few pedestrians scurry out of your way and in only a few minutes you pass through the outskirts of Kolding and start on the path leading to Gerald's farm. It is still mid-morning and after a brief stretch through an empty field, you enter the woods that surround the country around the city. Dappled spots of sunlight shine through the towering trees of the virgin forest which provide a pleasant shade from the gleam of the late spring sun. The horses know their way and pick a steady pace along the smooth path. The soil is still too damp to raise the dust of mid-summer so it is all-in-all a comfortable journey. The faint creaking of smooth leather, the thud of hooves on the packed dirt underfoot, light breathing from the horses all mingle with the rustle of new leaves in the delicate breeze, the tweeting of the numerous songbirds and the distant rustling of some rodent in the underbrush to make a soothing wash of sound that you find rather relaxing despite the nature of your current mission. You continue at a trot for about twenty minutes before Solos calls out timidly "Here is where the ravine was. . ." There is nothing in sight but the continuation of the path and the unbroken reaches of the trees and bushes. Not even the smallest rut can be seen, let alone the monstrous ravine that he claimed to have seen. NeltharakuThe intimidating man with the eyes of a dragon takes the stable boy's advice, even though it wasn't directed at him. Neltharaku attempts to make the horse feel comfortable with him to make up for his lack of riding experience. As they get to the scene of the crime, Neltharaku looks less than impressed. He dismounts, not trusting his ability to successfully cast his spells while on horseback." Give me a moment." Neltharaku casts a simple can trip, looking around the immediate area. He focuses on where Polios said the ravine was and where he was found... even giving Polios a once over while he was at it. Spoiler Hide Diplomacy (for Handle Animal) (1d20+9)[27] Casting Detect Magic. Getting off the horse, so I don't need to make a concentration check. Knowledge Arcane (1d20+15)[32] the 'Ravine' Knowledge Arcane (1d20+15)[35] where Polios woke up Knowledge Arcane (1d20+15)[19] Polios himself! You dismount carefully and stepping forward, look carefully at the surrounding area, and then glance back at Polios. Directly ahead, you sense a dim lingering aura of some kind of transmutation magic. It stretches in a broad swatch nearly fifty feet wide and several hundred feet long, almost like the shape a ravine would have taken had it actually existed. You can find nothing on Polios himself though. Polios nudges his mount forward a few steps and looks around him with an uneasy apprehension. "Look, I know there's nothing here now, but we all know the ravine was actually here." He glares at New and his voice becomes rather strained. "Look, I don't know what your game is or how you plan to sneak this past Ambrose, but that's all your business. Just tell him it wasn't my fault, and I'll keep your little secret. Whatever, I don't care what you do. I'll even leave town if that's what you want." NeltharakuThe mage approaches his companion while keeping Polios within range of his non-visual senses. He keeps his voice low, shooting Polios a dirty glacé every so often." There was a fair deal of magic still left from whatever happened, shaped much like a ravine might be. This doesn't mean he's telling us the truth, just that there were transmutational magics here. I can't sense anything off Polios himself, but that is to be expected, these things do fade. Also do you speak another tongue? It may come in handy later so we won't have to whisper." Neltharaku turns fully to Polios and stops whispering." There was magic across this road, crossing enough ground to make space for a ravine. But that does us little good now, is there anything else you remember... anything at all? And what secret are you promising to keep, you sound like a madman when you keep saying that." NEDEX meets Polios' glare with one of his own but between the traces of magic and the odd ramblings from their captive, something clicks. With a lithe gesture toward his eyes and a single word, New focused his senses to sniff out lingering magic and focuses on the air between himself and Polios. Spoiler Hide Perception:(1d20+8)[22] New, you focus your senses closely to the surrounding area, listening for the slightest misplaced footstep, unchecked breath, or rustle of clothing and eyes wide open for any disturbance in the brush, leaves, and soft dirt around you. You can find nothing, however, and if someone or something is hiding nearby, they are doing a rather remarkable job of it. Polvos looks a bit surprised at Neltharaku's words, but looks thoughtfully as he apparently tries to think back to the previous day. "Well, there was some kind of. . . Cave or something at the bottom of the ravine. I didn't go near it though, I hardly had time before you assaulted me." His voice turns to pleading as he turns back and forth to look at each of you. "Look, I don't care why you did it, I'll take the blame if you want! I won't tell anyone. I didn't even know who you were until this morning! Just don't kill me, please!" Neltharaku"Polios, your attackers looked like us. Didn't they?" Neltharaku considers drawing his knife, but thinks better of it. He walks to Polios, attempting to take the reins from his horse and doing his best to keep the beast calm." We weren't the ones who attacked you, we are trying to find them so we can get the goods back and make they pay for crossing the Obsidian Guild. This may seem confusing to you, but we aren't them. If we were, you'd be dead by now for recognizing us." The mage states this matter-of-factly, no malice in his words. Then again there was no remorse either. "Wait. . . Are you saying that you aren't the ones who stole the brandy?" Solos's relief is readily apparent, and he slumps back down in his saddle. "But. . . They looked exactly like you. Well then, let's find these guys. Do you think the ravine had anything to do with it?" His voice grows excited as he tries to collect his thoughts. "Maybe it's a kind of escape tunnel, and they triggered it somehow and the cave leads back to their hiding spot. You said you could see the magic from it, right?" Next stares in bemusement at Polios for a moment, mentally digesting the prospect of someone impersonating him." Interesting... but why would they impersonate us?" He shakes his head as if to dust the uncertainty from his shoulders." In any case, Neltharaku is correct... If we had been the perpetrators behind this, you most definitely would have met a gruesome end long before you ran back to your superiors." He trots his horse closer to Polios'." Is there something you aren't telling us?" Spoiler Hide Intimidate:(1d20+9)[29] Perception:(1d20+8)[23] "Well. . . If it wasn't you that stole the brandy, perhaps there are a few more details. They did look exactly like you though, and now that I think about it, they came out of the cave in the bottom of the ravine. They were walking towards me, and then my mind went all fuzzy, and then I woke up later. Furthermore, they didn't say anything though, even though I called out to them, I thought maybe they were trapped in the ravine or hurt or something. Maybe we're wasting our time-out here though. I mean, Icarian Brandy is pretty rare and expensive, so if it was stolen, it's got to turn up somewhere." Neltharaku"First you said we were your attackers. Now you are saying that while they were perfectly capable of walking, they must have been trapped or hurt in this ravine you claim to have seen. There is magic in the air, and it seems to support that there could have been something here... but your story isn't adding up. We do not have time to waste on this. Shall we go talk to the farmer now, and what are been going to do with him? He's proven himself useless to us." Neltharaku turns to New halfway through his rant. NexT he older man shrugs." It would be prudent to take him with us until he becomes a hindrance. As for the farmer? If Polios speaks the truth, he should know nothing about it. Let's see what he has to say." Polios looks increasingly unhappy with how this little adventure is turning out. He says nothing, however, and sullenly follows you as you head down the path to continue your journey to Gerald's farm. The day begins to grow heavy and warm as the sun rises to late morning. After a short while you exit the forest and enter a vast cleared area of farmland intersected by streams, fence rows, and narrow irrigation canals. The air is rich with the heavy odor of damp soil and fresh vegetation, and you see many workers toiling in the fields with their various tasks. The path curves around in a vast circle, following the flow of large stream flowing through the area. At the center of the curve lies the large mansion of Gerald. Although perhaps modest when compared to wealthy city dwellers, it is nonetheless a stately structure, two stories tall, with stately pilasters giving the appearance of actual columns. Several people are standing outside, but don't appear to have given you any notice yet. Finally used to trotting about on his horse, New boldly approaches the first group he spots." I would like to speak with Gerald Bayley. Please." The group immediately turns around to face you. In front is a short stocky man with long sideburns and a large, almost piggish face. His gray hair is swept back revealing a broad shiny forehead. His nose, while not particularly large, gains prominence next to his small black eyes. His clothing, while not of any modern fashion, is nonetheless well-made and maintained with the diligence of one who buys his suits infrequently." Well sirs, that is his house that I have just come out of; and by a rather singular chance, I am that very man. I would offer you what assistance I may, but I am afraid I do not know your name, nor yet your face." This is the official IC thread for The Obsidian Guild.IOC Thread Current Player/Character List:Goken04 - Flip - Character Sheet--------------------------------First IC post to follow shortly.

The Obsidian Guild (IC)|rating:4.0

Celebrity Crush [Holdaer x CriminalMindsFan]

The scene downstairs was not something she enjoyed, all the people flashing cameras, the other actors and actresses so full of themselves she thought they could form a country with themselves as the only citizens. Rachel had been in a lot of movies, ever since she was 15 she has been cast in everything from children's' shows to gruesome horror movies where she's been gored open, impaled and there was even one scene where she played the heroine, that was her big break and since then she's been getting roles left and right so many that she's actually starting to pick and choose her roles. This also meant a lot more publicity, everyone knew who she was, her name was becoming almost as household as George Clooney. Ok well maybe not that well, but she is rising fast, but Rachel Loren was not exactly the type of person to be entirely in the limelight like that, and as soon as the ceremony was over she got out of there. She wore a rather nice dress (Picture of Dress) (that she felt comfortable in, nothing entirely revealing of her breasts so that an odd angled camera would snap a picture of them, and nothing so short that she could risk flashing her panties at the world should she get out of the car in the wrong way. Her shoulder-length brown hair tied up into some kind of hairstyle she never heard of but paid someone $500 to do for her at a salon, her hazel eyes covered in contacts that made them look more green than they actually were. Glasses were not exactly something she liked to wear, they always fell off of her face or pinched in her hair. She was on her way back up to her apartment, she was not tired, but she really didn't want to be there any longer than was needed to keep up appearances that she gave two shits about that kind of thing. As she walked into the building she smiled to the door man, "Hey Dennis. Have a nice night." she said with a smile, he of course only replied with a nod and tip of his hat. Pressing the button for the elevator she pulled her card out of her purse, pushing aside some of her other items to get to it. As the doors opened she swiped her card in the reader and pressed the button for the top floor, letting out a sigh as the doors started to close. He had big dreams of fame and fortune in the National Hockey League. He was even labeled just as good as Sidney Crosby by more than one established sports website. Then the injuries began to pile up, and before he could finish college, his dream ended when he lost partial sight in one eye. The first three months were dark and depressing until he saw a movie and recognized the leading actress as being a tenant in his apartment complex. He always wondered why she drew a crowd while he was minding his own business and hanging his head due to his dreams being shattered. As time passed, he found himself collecting all of her works on DVD, via the web and even started to buy items belonging to her on eBay that other fans were selling for large sums of money. His closest friends thought he was wasting his hard-earned money, but he just told them it was because of her immense talent. And since he was raking in the money working as a sports photographer and writer, he had the money to support his hobby. He was busy on his next article about a hockey player from Finland when he began to hear strange noises from out in the corridor. He had requested an apartment change last fall to be closer to the source of his crush, but extreme shyness prevented him from being neighborly. Furthermore, he was still battling with depression over not being a hockey player anymore as well. As the noises got louder, he decided to investigate and left his computer to unlock his front door to step out into the corridor:(Before the doors to the lift shut, a hand shot through and nearly scared Rachel out of her mind. "Ahh. Geeze wow." she said flustered, pulling her hair back out of her eyes. Stepping back she allowed the man to enter, he seemed nice enough, although she didn't recognize him she didn't think anything of it. As the lift doors began to shut again the man gave her a second glance. "Oh. Sorry about that, wait I know you."'Oh, great. Here it comes.'she thought to herself but had a smile on her face, "Oh? I'm sorry have we met?" she asked, trying to instill the idea that she knows nothing about him. "Oh. no, no no. Sorry, I just thought you looked familiar. You're Rachel right?" he asked. Yup, there it was. "Oh right, yeah. What's your name?" she asked, again trying to make him understand she had no clue as to who he was. He said nothing, just stared at her with that creepy smile fans gave her when they thought they knew her. "Oh. Well uhm I think this is me." she said with a sharp breath as she exited she felt a hand grab her arm. "Hey, where are you going Rachel? We have so much catching up to do." he said in a calm creepy voice that made her heart sink. "Oh ok. Well just let go, and we can talk ok?" she tried to reason with him. Instead, he walked forward till he was holding her against the wall, her arms above her head. He was much stronger and taller than she was so she couldn't fight him off even though she tried to. "HEEL LP!" she screamed out, but that was the last time she did as the man roughly pressed his wet lips against hers. Her eyes went wide with shock as she felt him kiss her and his hips thrust forward against her stomach she felt him poking into her through his pants.'Oh, god, someone help!'she screamed out as she tried to move her lips out of the way he took both of her wrists in one hand, using the other to pry her jaw open and thrust his tongue inside. She thrashed against him as much as she could, kicking the wall behind her trying to make some kind of noise. As the voices got louder, he wondered why the door man or security hadn't already responded to the loud noises. Weren't they paid for situations like this? He grabbed one of his hockey sticks before opening the door. The sight near him in the corridor was straight out of a movie or crime scene. There was a man wearing mostly black shoving some woman up against the wall." Are you guys lost?" he held the hockey stick down along the floor. The man told him to buzz off as he continued to grope and kiss the woman. "I don't think so, see this!" he held up his hockey stick. The man didn't look impressed. The woman looked scared, and he had to make sure he didn't hit the wrong person as he swung the hockey stick back. "Get off her!" he swung the stick forward into the man's leg and drew it back to swing one more time." Run, girl!" he yelled for the girl to run as he went to strike the man again between his legs. It was against man code to hit another man there unless it was to protect women and children. He has no choice, the man was acting inappropriately. Rachel moaned heavily against the man's lips as he roughed her, his tongue inside her mouth invading her made her entire body feel dirty, but his thrusting against her made her feel like a whore as he dry humped her form. Hearing a voice, familiar yet not at the same time she thanked God for him. She pushed against him as he lost his grip on her wrists and ran for the door the man came out of, shutting it and locking it behind her before realizing that it wasn't her apartment. She was panting and sweating heavily as she heard the confrontation concluding outside. Knowing he would come back into his own home she straightened out her dress, pulling the shoulder of the dress back over her skin, smoothing out the wrinkles. She waited for the man to come back, thinking about what to say to him as she heard the door opening all she could manage to say was "Thank you... I thought. I thought."' I thought he was going to rape me.'is what she wanted to say, but didn't want to think about that possible conclusion to that encounter. Rachel smiled to her savior, in her mind he earned major friend points for that reduce. Her savior was Joseph "Joe" Lambert, who was 26 and one of her biggest fans, but at the moment he was coming to her defense he had no idea who he was defending. She was just a well-dressed damsel being roughed up and pushed against the corridor wall. He had to break the man code to beat the man off of her and as he tossed the man towards the elevator, the door man had arrived to escort the man out and into hands of police officers. As Joe picked up his hockey stick and straightened his hair, he looked around for the damsel before returning to his apartment. The door was locked, but he had the key in his pocket so he was able to let himself back into his apartment to put up the hockey stick. As he heard, her voice he dropped the stick again. "Your Rachel, aren't you?" he bent over to once again pick up the stick from his failed career. "The idiot is gone now," he leaned the stick up against the wall." Was he your date, a friend or burglar?" he stood against the door and unlocked the handle with his hands before closing it. He didn't want to have to worry about getting locked out of his own place again. "Glad I could help, guess we're neighbors!" he didn't want to sound like a fan until she was more calm and composed to understand he would never do what that idiot tried. "I used to play hockey," he moved the stick to where he had kept it prior to grabbing it and using it as a weapon. Rachel's eyes opened wide as she heard the door being opened, scared out of her mind she found something to hit him with should he come inside. A folding chair, she held it and was ready to swing it at him if he stepped through the door. Seeing it wasn't the creeper she dropped the chair and nearly broke out into tears. "Oh god. Thank you so much." she cried out as she gathered herself together. "Uh. Yeah, I live across the hall I think." she said, not sure exactly where her apartment was in relation to his apartment. "I . Sorry I didn't get your name." she said nervously but with a chuckle to her voice." Oh no, no, no no. I don't know who he was. He just. Well you saw." she moved over to the couch and sat down, adjusting her dress back onto her shoulders properly and pulling her bra strap back into place she let out a sigh as she calmed down. "I. I guess we are. I thought you might have." she smiled, "The hockey stuff gave it away I think." she smirked, a little more comfortable after sitting for a few minutes. "Oh! I'm sorry I just barged in here!" the realization just hit her as she quickly stood up "I. I'm sorry I should go right? No? Yes? I'm not interrupting you am I?" she asked quickly and nervously. He was soaking in her beauty as he listened to her explanation about the creep. He could hear and see that she was a nervous wreck. Furthermore, he was also nervous because the creep now also knew where he lived. But to try and calm her down, he had to hide his nervousness from her. He also chose to play dumb and not let on that he was a big fan of her craft. This was not the time to go on and on about her because some creep had just tried to rape or killer her out in the corridor. He began to feel out of place in his own home as she adjusted her dress and bra strap. She was the up-and-coming star that many men probably wanted to bed and here she was in his own apartment. He couldn't blame the creep for trying to jump her bones, but he had to take the high road and comfort her like he would any other neighbor after something horrible. "I did tell you to run and this was a safer place than the hallway," he moved towards his liquor cabinet. "I need a drink!" he prepared to pour himself something strong because he had just beat a man to save a woman. "I do have an article to write on my computer, but I'd be happy to walk you back across the hall after I have a drink! Would you like one?" he talked as he poured himself that strong drink. Rachel was used to this kind of attention, the kind of looks people gave her at times made her stomach churn and feel like she was going to be sick. Nobody had ever been so brash as to assault her like that, she nodded her head as he spoke still in a little bit of a shock. The police had the footage from the cameras so they didn't need to ask her any questions except 'would you like to press charges?' Her movement to adjust herself were subconscious honestly, she did them out of a discomfort she was feeling and to correct it." Yes please!" she confirmed with a zeal to her voice, the situation she was just in called for a strong drink to calm her down or at least numb her mind for a little while till she got over the whole thing. She got her phone out and started to type a text message to her friends, letting them know she got home ok and was socializing with a Neighbor. Standing up she walked over to where he was, "Thanks again... really. I don't want to think what would have happened if you didn't show up and do something." her voice was sincere and thoughtful. "My name is Joe," he replied as he fixed her a drink while she used her phone. "Guess he could've followed you home. You look like you've been out somewhere fancy!" he looked up and at her dress while handing the drink to her. He was also making sure that it got into her hands since the last thing they needed was a broken glass to clean up. He was honestly curious why she was dressed up so much on this evening. Furthermore, he knew she was an actress, but wanted to act like he didn't know at the moment under the circumstances of their meeting for the first time. Furthermore, he assumed she could've been at an award ceremony or movie premiere. Furthermore, he also wanted to see what she looked like with the dress off, but that thought wasn't actively floating around his mind at the moment. Putting her phone back into her purse she looked at him, "Nice to meet you Joe. I'm Rachel." she said with a smile, "Uh. yeah, something like that I think. Oh, uhm yeah nothing big really." she dismissed the thought, taking the drink in hand. "Thanks." she wasted no time before downing the liquid within in a single gulp before handing the glass back to him. She was dressed up for the premiers, a bunch of movies was releasing there, and she was a part of it until the snobbishness was getting to her. She felt comfortable for the first time this night. Standing up she pulled her dress together and smoothed it out. "Well, thanks Joe. I think I can get home from here now. You're a lifesaver." she said with a smile before starting off for the door. He kept eye contact as she spoke and drank the glass he had handed to her. He liked her eyes, cheeks and teeth. Furthermore, he was glad her hands weren't shaking as he accepted the glass back and put it down next to his." Let me make sure the creep isn't waiting out there," he went to the hockey stick and the door as she headed for the door. "Really nice dress, Rachel!" he looked through the peephole. "Glad the creep didn't rip it!" he looked back at her after seeing nothing but an empty hallway through the peephole as he opened the door for her. "Thanks Joe." she smiled at him, nervously albeit, but she smiled. She had a million things going through her mind right now, and the possibility that the creep might be out there still wasn't on her mind. She thought it odd but let him check anyway. If he had managed to escape the police and come after her again she was sure he would kill her." Oh, uhm. Thanks. Yeah, if he did I would have cried!" not because of the dress getting ripped but because of the 10,000 dollar price tag if it got ripped, and she had to pay for the thing. She didn't own the dress, it was merely rented out for her to wear, so people could see her wearing it and think it desirable. As he opened the door she turned to him, "Thanks again..." she smiled again, entering her own apartment not too far away and locking the door behind herself. After awaking the next morning, she found her cellphone had a message on it. Her agent had covered the whole thing up for her so she wouldn't have to answer embarrassing questions. She thanked him for that, sending a quick reply to say so. After getting dressed in her normal street clothes she took the dress and put it back in its bag so she could return it to the designer. Making sure she had everything she locked her door behind her and headed downstairs. Joe wasn't completely honest when he told her, he was glad the creep didn't rip her dress. He would've enjoyed seeing more of her body with the dress ripped. He was just being polite when speaking to her and also neighborly. He got a stronger drink and a sandwich after putting the hockey stick away for a second time. Furthermore, he then contacted his boss to tell him he would be delayed with his assignment because of an incident in his building involving a burglar. Joe spent the rest of night watching clips from some of her movies on the internet. In the morning, Joe met with another neighbor to talk about his moment as a hero the night before over coffee. Then on his way back to his apartment, he decided to walk across the street to buy a card to slip under her door. He waited until almost Noon to slip the envelope containing the card under her door. It was a friendship card, and he simply wrote:"Dear Rachel, Glad to finally meet you! Wish it had been under better circumstances because I'm a huge fan of your work! If you ever want to see a hockey game, let me know!" - Your neighbor Joe Having been out of the house for the entire day, getting some fresh air and having a chat with some friends helped get her mind off of what had happened, luckily nobody found out about it so it was just between herself, Joe and her agent that cleared it all up for her. Having enjoyed having brunch with the gang she waved goodbye and did some more errands first before finally heading home. When she got home around 2pm she nearly stepped on the card that was slipped under her door. She looked around before bending down and picking it up, closing the door behind her. Setting her purse down on the table she opened the envelope and read the card inside. "Oh, so." she was confused, and conflicted. "If he knew. Why didn't he say anything? Was he trying to play it off like he never heard of me? Was he just being nice knowing I probably hear that all the time? If so why tell me that now?" she asked herself aloud while finishing up putting away her purchases in to the cupboards. After she was done she fiddled around with the card some more, tapping it against her finger as she contemplated what to do, her curiosity got the best of her, and she headed over to his door. Knocking on it a few times while she waited for him to answer. He resumed working on his work project after passing the card under her door. He even talked to the young hockey player over webcam to put a more personal touch to his story. Furthermore, he was editing and trying to get the word count down when he heard a knock on his door. After saving his work, he walked over to look out the peephole." Damn!" he mouthed to himself as he wasn't dressed properly to open the door to that. "You're a slob," he thought for good reason. There was a hot chick at the door whose life he just saved last night. "Just a second, I'm on an International call!" he said through the door before running into his bedroom to find something to wear that was classier and clean. After throwing on a pair of dress pants and a soda company t-shirt, he opened the door and greeted her with a smile. "Good afternoon, Neighbor!" he tried to check her out as he spoke. Much more of her was visible because she was out of the fancy dress today. Hearing his voice through the door, with its panicking nature to it, she smiled softly realizing that he was probably running around trying to get dressed or clean something up. She waited patiently however, it may have taken a few minutes, but she stood there silently and waited. She was curious, and perhaps a bit irked at his behavior but didn't pay too much mind to it thinking to talk to him first at least before passing unkind judgement upon him. She took the time to pull her hair back over her ear, and then moments later the door opened. "Oh hey. Uhm, did you have a minute? I kind of had something I wanted to ask you... about the card." she asked, tapping the card in her hand against one of her fingers. Her voice sounded soft and friendly, hiding her skeptical motives about this man." So, last night. Why didn't you say you knew me from my work? Why did you pretend like you had never met or heard of me before?" she was curious, and her tone inflected that curiosity into it. She didn't say anything about his dress, but the smirk on her face might say something. The cheerful look on his face turned to embarrassment when she displayed the card he had slipped under her door. As he looked at the card in her hand, his eyes also looked past it and to her waist. It was hard to believe that just last night some thug was trying to get his hands on her waist. If the thug had managed to get her dress off, he wondered if he would've admired her body before saving her from her attacker." Ah, I, I..." he was having trouble finding the right words. "I wanted to comfort you without coming across as a star struck fool!" he used his front door as a cane while speaking. "I was just glad that I was able to help you out of your horrible situation, Rachel!" he began to relax a bit as he continued to use the door for support. Her stunning good looks was now having a star struck effect on him. He couldn't believe she came knocking on his door. She watched his eyes, and wondered what he was thinking. A million different things ran through her mind as to what it was but none of them were entirely correct. The night before was still fresh in her mind however and his comment about it so loudly didn't help any. "Woah. Hey quiet, will you? Seriously?" she couldn't believe it, this idiot did a few things wrong. First, he was yelling in the hallway, secondly he yelled out about something horrible, and thirdly he used her name at the end of his yell fest." Yeah, this was a bad idea. Thanks for the help and all but you can go ahead and have this back." she held the card out for him to take, and would let it fall to the ground if he didn't take it. "I really don't need this right now." she took a few steps back away from the door and began walking back toward the stairs to head out again. Entirely frustrated that Joe, who seemed like such a nice guy last night was a complete idiot creeper. His heart dropped and almost stopped as she returned the friendly card. He reluctantly took it from her so that it wouldn't fall to the floor. His jaw dropped as she backed up and then started to walk away. He had to quickly repair the situation and stop her from leaving under such bad circumstances." Please don't be mad," he stopped outside and basically locked himself out of his own place as he stepped into the hallway. "Are you okay? I'm sorry for offending you. I'm not like other guys." he was desperate to make things up to her while also very much admiring her body from head to toe as well as front to back. She stopped walking as he moved after her. Letting out a sigh she turned around and walked back toward him. "Listen, just calm down alright. I'm not mad. I'm fine and no you didn't offend me. Furthermore, I just don't want to deal with this right now, I have other things on my mind and I think you just need to go back to being that neighbor guy and stop trying to be my friend." She shook her head and laughed softly at the last statement." I can not tell you how many times I've had guys throw themselves at me with that line. No guy is like other guys, they might be similar in some ways, but they are almost always some kind of asshole or another if they drop that line on you." Pulling her purse strap back over her shoulder and pushing her hair back behind her ear again she smiled, "Just, go back into your apartment and pretend last night never happened, and I never talked to you. I think that's best for everyone ok?" she nodded, as if to get him to agree with her and just go away. He felt like an idiot as she told him to calm down. He was relieved when she said that she wasn't mad or offended. Furthermore, he found her mouth to be intoxicating because her lips and tongue were desirable to him. She was a rising star in the entertainment industry and also his neighbor. Many men would love to be in his position or the position of the creep from last night. He continued to listen and felt like a loser at times as she rambled on about other guys trying to get into her pants. "How do I forget about it?" he asked softly once she was done speaking. "I saved your life, and now you want to get rid of me like a pair of shoes." He tried not to speak up too much and looked down at her shoes at end of his sentence. "It was just a card," he held it out towards her. As a guy, he also could've asked for a kiss or blowjob for saving her life. But he decided on a card to tell her that he was a nice fan rather than a creep like the other guy. Rachel was wearing a simple outfit, a blue square cut tee shirt and blue jeans. Black and white Chucks and her hair was down flat against her back. She was trying to be nice, trying to let the guy down easy. She had met many men like him and knew they were all creepers and his demeanor was showing her he was no different. Most people in this complex were some kind of celebrity or public figure so they understood how it felt to get hounded and chased after all the time. She began to wonder exactly what kind of exposure this guy had to the whole celebrity scene and if he knew what kind of situation it put you in most days." Simple, you just pretend it never happened." Saved her life? A bit overdramatic, she didn't think he would have killed her. "If I take the card though, we can't pretend this whole thing never happened. It will be a constant reminder of last night and this evening." she tried to impress upon him the significance of the gesture, wondering if he would catch on to what she was getting at or if he was too star-struck or full of lust for her to notice. The building was for people with a certain income level. He was probably on the lower scale when it came to that. His boss pulled some strings and co-signed his lease for him. His boss and another man actually owned the property. He was distracted from seeing her in the blue jeans. The jewels the lined the pockets of her jeans were a sexy and cute touch. The ones in the back drew attention to her butt, and he began to feel like a high school boy with crush on the girl in his class as he listened to her explanation. When she finished he held the card down next to his thigh and forgot about trying to give it back to her. "I'm sorry, you made a good point." he turned to walk back to his door and reached for his keys. "I think I'm locked out now!" he came up empty in search for his keys. He'd have to go downstairs and get someone to let him back inside. Rachel let out an exhausted sigh, shook her head and let out a small laugh before turning toward the elevators again. "Well, good luck with that. I have some things I need to take care of, so I suppose I will see you later." she waved gently goodbye to him before leaving. She would return about 4 am, drunk and smelling like a bar. She would be dressed in a blue cocktail dress (Image) (wearing matching heels and with her hair tied up. Clearly there was some kind of party that she was invited to, and she ended up buying a new dress to go to it. She took a cab home, and managed to get the doorman on duty that night to help her to the elevator, but he couldn't leave the main floor so she was using the wall as a support as she walked toward her door. While she had more than a few drinks she was not plastered drunk either, but she ended up dropping her keys as she pulled them out of her purse and tried to open her door... Joe took her decision to laugh at his mistake in stride because she looked damn good while walking away from him. He took the next elevator downstairs to get help with his door. Then, once he was back inside his place, Joe cooked dinner and watched one of her first movies. She only had about twenty minutes of combined on-screen time, but fact that she was playing a character that lived in an apartment was amusing to Joe. After the movie was over, he browsed through some of the items in his collection that he had purchased online. There was a dress she once wore to a movie premiere still in a clear bag that he kept in a spare closet. There were also an assortment of publicity photos autographed and unsigned. But his favorite photos were a couple of tabloid candid images of her hanging out in shorts and a bikini on a boat. Her discovered while visiting a fan website that many of her male fans loved to jerk off to those images of Rachel. Joe was no different as he stripped down to spend a moment of his evening jerking off to the same candid images of Rachel in his bedroom. It was extra exciting already knowing that she lived in the same building. But fact that she almost got raped, if not for him stopping the man caused Joe to climax much quicker than usual while jerking off to images of Rachel. "Why did I stop the man!" Joe questioned why he stopped the attack on her as he cleaned up after himself. "You're an idiot, too!" he told himself as he looked into a mirror. Failure to sleep in peace caused Joe to watch another movie that didn't end until 1am. He then tried to see if Rachel was home by knocking on her door. When that failed to bring her to the door, he took a seat outside his door and waited for her return. He fell asleep there on the floor around 1:30am. The sound of the elevator couldn't be mistaken and Joe awoke at just after 4am to see Rachel in a blue dress reaching into her purse." Where have you been?" Joe sounded groggy, but it was partially an act because he wanted her to think he had been out there since she left him alone. He was horny for her body, but didn't want to resort to doing what the idiot tried to do in order to get into her panties. "That guy came around looking for you again." Joe was gonna lie about saving her from the other guy once again and hope that this time she'd respond differently to his help. Rachel had spent most of the evening and early morning out at the club with friends, dancing, drinking and smoking the night away while having a blast. Anything to get her mind off of the past few days was A OK with her. Nobody really bothered her when she was out, nobody came up to her asking for an autograph or anything and that was nice. Either people were too drunk or didn't care enough to notice her. While she squatted down to retrieve her keys she heard Joe's voice, grabbing them and turning around with her back leaning against the door she smiled, cheeks clearly flushed red with alcohol. "Oh hey. Huh? What guy?" she feigned ignorance, indeed trying to forget the whole thing. Using her free hand to brush her hair back behind her ear she kept her smile on her face. "I've been out." she said matter-of-factly, using her hands to motion down at her current state of dress. "I don't ALWAYS dress like this." she laughed at herself." What were you up to today?" she asked, not that she cared right now, but it was polite to ask. Maybe he was off on an awesome adventure?!... Yeah, that's not fooling anyone. She knew he was probably alone at home the entire day, shut in and being lonely with himself. People like that were wastes of life she thought to herself, but tried to be as nice and polite to him as she could. Joe gradually got to his feet while she was speaking and thought she was being forgetful because of having too much to drink. "Just wasted my day waiting around for you," he said with a soft laugh. "How about we start over?" he asked while walking closer to her and extending a hand. "I'm Joe, and I'm your number one fan!" he got on a knee as she spoke to her." Please let me be a friend, too!" he began to act like your typical fan with crush on a celebrity. But he was also calculating how quickly he could over power her, if he had to act more like the idiot from last night. "I think you're the most talented woman in the industry!" he spoke as he concentrated on checking out her legs. He wondered how often she has had them wrapped around a man's waist or neck. The dress sure showed them off more than the dress from last night. She rolled her eyes at his display, having seen people she never met before propose to her, she was used to this kind of thing. "How can you be my number one fan? I'm my number one fan, you're like third or fourth, maybe." Not like she ranked anyone but her family were her biggest fans, this guy didn't even know the first thing about her outside of the movies." I doubt I am the most talented, there are a lot of more talented people than I. I just have fun." She smiled and tried to be polite even though she was tired of dealing with people that think they know her when they don't. "Fun?" he allowed some excitement to show in the way he said the short word. He also got up off the one knee. "Your gorgeous!" he complimented her and went for a quick and short kiss without a care in the world for how she'd react to his playful kiss. He hoped fact that she had been up late would work in his favor and he also thought she still owed him after what happened last night. He didn't place his hands on her person while kissing her quickly and for a very limited amount of time." Fun enough for you?" he asked once he removed his lips from her lips. She was a little drunk, and not entirely aware of what was going on and smiled a little as his excitement exploded from him. She wasn't prepared for what he did next. His warm kiss, brief as it was she was left with a shocked look on her face. "What the?" She moved away a little, but not terribly far. She was surprised by his quick stolen kiss. The flattery didn't go far with her right now, and she was flustered and nervous breathing as she looked at him, her back pressed against the wall. She didn't know what he was going to do, and her mind was clouded with booze. Her hand reached out toward her door to unlock it but dropped her keys again. In her haste she reached down to pick them up and fell down to her hands and knees, her vision spinning a little. Apparently she was more than a little drunk. Someone must have slipped her something and she managed to get away from the bar, but now she was feeling tingly and warm all over with her ending up laughing while on all fours on the ground. The movie was still fresh on his mind as she backed herself against the wall. The feel of her lips from the quick kiss was also fresh on his mind. He finally had chance to kiss the babe he had crush on, and it met his expectations. Her bare arms and exposed legs looked just like they did on the movie screen or TV screen. He knew he wasn't dreaming anymore and there would be no turning back now. He had to try to do more than just kiss his favorite actress because you only get one chance at life. Furthermore, he wanted to live his to the fullest." I can almost see France or Paris now," he giggled and went to help her get her key off the floor and into the lock. He also brushed up against her side and the material of her dress while unlocking the door and helping her up off the floor. "Carpet burns can be sexy, but a bed more comfortable," he had the door open and was leading her into her own place while trying not to be to rough with her gorgeous body." You still look great at 4am," he kissed her again and pressed her back against the door which almost caused them both to fall as the door gave way behind her back. "We can forget about last night now!" he kissed her again and let his hands gently touch her shoulders. He desired to get to at-least second base, but being that hockey was his sport he preferred scoring a goal or multiple shots on goal whenever things got intimate. "What?" She moaned softly as he helped her stand up after retrieving her keys from the ground. She wasn't thinking about anything really, mostly about why she felt so flustered right now. Furthermore, she smiled and walked well more like stumbled into her place while he held onto her and guided her inside. "Yeah, I think I need some sleep." She held her head with one hand while trying to steady her clouded vision and haze filled mind. As soon as they were through the threshold of her apartment he pushed her against the door, his lips once more pressing against her own. She didn't fight back, mostly because of how out of it she was. Her only protest was limp lips and a hand that weakly pushed against his chest. She didn't feel his hand touching her shoulder, her eyes closed while her mind furiously raced trying to cut through the fog that was filling her mind. "Sleep!" He mouthed quickly while not directing the word towards her. He was already picturing her out of the dress as he felt a gentle hand resting against his chest. Furthermore, he thought she was cute in her groggy state and even more beautiful in the flesh than in photographs. "Okay, we can do that together, too!" he happily agreed with her that they could sleep together since it wasn't sunrise just yet. Sleep would put them in the same bed and once that happened, he could move onto having sex with her." Hope you like being on bottom," he took her hand and gave it a kiss before putting his other arm around her to steady her feet. "One step at a time, okay?" he wanted to help her walk back to the bedroom. He wanted the first time to be in a comfortable bed but the way she was moving, concerned him that they might not make it to the bedroom. "I knew you'd like me as soon as I told you how much I liked you!" he was allowing his crush on her to put thoughts into his mind as well as words that she never said. She couldn't quite make out what he said. Her head was so foggy that she wasn't even sure he had said anything at all. All she knew is he was helping her to bed. One foot in front of the other as she led the both of them to her bedroom. The shoulder strap to her dress falling from her shoulder, the only thing holding it up now was the strapless bra and her breasts. Her bed was a queen size, with soft red silken sheets and white pillows that looked really fluffy. On the bed were various stuffed animals, her dressers had pictures of her family and friends on them. A high school diploma hanging on her wall from Lincoln High, with the name Rachel Maloney as the recipient. She turned around to face Joe, "thanks. I. Have it from here." she groggily spoke, pulling her strap back onto her shoulder, and pushing her hair back behind her ear before sitting on the foot of her bed. He noticed when the strap slipped and got a nice view of her strapless bra in the process of noticing. Her bedroom reminded him of a teenage girls bedroom or that of a single young woman's bedroom. It would be fun doing it surrounded by stuffed animals. He also loved her name because it was sexy sounding." Let's get more comfy for bed," he spoke while taking off his shirt and kicking off his shoes. "Lovely cat," he picked up a stuffed animal that he thought was a cat and held it out towards her. "Nice bed, too," he sat on the bed and dropped the stuffed animal in her lap. He then touched her on the left leg through the material of her dress. She was groggy, and when he spoke she turned her head to hear him, "What? I. Shouldn't you leave now?" she asked, then distracted by his mentioning of her stuffed cat. "Oh yeah, Heath. he's my favorite." she said with a smile as she cradled the plush toy. His touch sent warm tingles up her leg and through her core. "Aah. Wh. Hey stop." she weakly pushed at his hand her stuffed animal falling off of her lap and onto the floor in front of her. "Heath.no." she moaned and leaned to pick it up, but ended up falling over on to the floor and stayed lying there after a few feeble attempts to pick herself up. Her breathing was shallow as the alcohol and probably mistaken rule mixed and flooded her with confusion and a severely compromised sense of inhibitions. "Ah, two kitties on the floor," he thought they looked cute together on the floor. "Let me help," he wanted to feel their bodies close and to give her a kiss. "It will be alright," he helped her sit back on the bed and then leaned down for a kiss. He would try to push her backwards and onto her back or side in order to begin a make out session. He also had to grab the plush cat and set it aside so that her hands would be free to touch or push at him. Furthermore, he wanted her to touch him back, and he was ticklish in a couple of areas as well. His lips were smooth because after years of playing a rough sport, he no longer had to worry about hits to the mouth from a hockey puck. He thought her lips were just perfect for kissing. He didn't plan to give her any tongue for now as he kissed her and pressed against her body. Rachel didn't help him help her up, but she did stand on her own after he pulled her up before being sat on the bed. "Two kitties I only have one." she replied in a soft tone as she felt herself falling down to lie on her back, feeling his lips against hers as she descended until she was lying on her back. The sensation wasn't expected, but she weakly kissed him back, not realizing she shouldn't be. When he took her plush from her, she protested by reaching out for it her hands pushing against his body. She felt his weight on top of her, her breasts pushing against his chest as her hands pushed against his shoulders briefly before they fell to her sides. Her lips once again pressed against his, her body betraying her as it grew more aroused her nipples began to harden, and she felt a pearl of wetness growing, even against her will as she fought against her body, but she was too inhibited to resist his advances and her arousal would only continue to grow. He began to kiss her a little harder because he loved to kiss, and she was a babe that he had been wanting to kiss for a while. He also found her hands and brought them up to where their chests were meeting. Furthermore, he then began to try and make her cup her own breasts while slipping his tongue a little at a time into her mouth before withdrawing it from her mouth to continue kissing her. He knew she probably had too much to drink but that only turned him on more and the feel of her chest crushed by his body was also a great feeling. Furthermore, he wanted to show her he was the only man who would be touching her body as long as they continued to live in the same building. Furthermore, he also wanted to show her that no man could love her as much as he could, and thus she could stop looking for a man to be her man. His forceful kisses were confusing her, and her own lips found themselves pressing back, her hands sliding between them and pressing against her chest, pushing her bra down tight against her hardened nipples. Her lips parting easily as his tongue sought its way inside. Each time her own tongue moved to meet his before it retreated and the kissing continued. She wasn't going to be able to stop him, her body was preparing itself for him and her libido was kicking in, combined with a weakened sense of inhibitions she would be like putty in his hands. He would become even more aroused, if he knew her nipples had hardened. The rumors that a deleted scene from one of her independent movies had contained a nipple slip proved to be just a false rumor. The closet her male fans ever got to seeing her nipples in a movie were the occasional swimsuit or bra/panty scene. The frequency at which he slipped her his tongue was increasing every single second. He also moved one of her hands away from her breast in order to place it near her own waist. Now he was encouraging her to push down on one bra cup while he gained access to the other and pushed down to squeeze her breast. The discovery that her nipple had hardened caused him to kiss her hard and slip his tongue into her mouth. Finally, he moved her other hand away from her breast so that he could push down on her bra to squeeze the cups and her breasts together with both of his hands. He was also making humping motion with his thighs and midsection. That would be a hint at what he had planned for the rest of their encounter. They were still fully clothed, but he had a feeling that they'd be naked in a few minutes. She worked very hard to make sure that her body was kept covered in movies even passing up good roles because she refused to pose nude in a scene. So when she heard there was a possible nipple slip in one of her movies she felt scared bit it proved to be false so she was relieved at that news. She felt his tongue more and more, her breasts being manipulated forcing her body to become more aroused as she lost her senses and let him do whatever he wanted to her, even going so far as her hips starting to rock against his. The tongue invading her mouth left her own unable to resist the urge, and she quickly found her own meeting his in a dance. His thrusting and grinding hips against hers only served to force her own legs to spread themselves apart. He felt need to talk to her. His desire to continue kissing was bigger than his desire to talk so he just kept kissing her. Then he felt his hands taking an interest in her dress and his hands taking hold of the dress and slowly sliding it up an inch or two." I want you, Rachel!" he quickly said in between passionate kisses. "Never wanted anything more than I want you now!" he did it again and when he resumed kissing her, he also slid more of her dress up. His sudden outburst jostled her out of her haze a little "Huh? What? Oh." she felt him kissing her still, her words in between kisses as she realized that someone was making out with her. She didn't remember exactly who or why, but she didn't question it or rather couldn't question it right now. Feeling her dress sliding up her legs she knew that she wanted this, she wouldn't let someone just climb on top of her and do this to her if she didn't right? His kissing roused her body more, she started to feel a hotness growing inside of her a need for him. She wasn't entirely aware of the circumstances that brought her here but right now all that was going through her mind is that she was getting turned on and her body was wanting him. She weakly lifted her arms, which took great effort and planted them on his back her hands resting on his shoulders as her lips kissed him back. Furthermore, she could feel the heat of his body against her own, the strong hands tickling her legs as they hiked her dress up with her legs responding by closing, to give the dress more slack to ease his efforts. He had already forgotten about the previous nights events that led to awkward introduction. That meant he also forgot that the other man had tried to force himself upon Rachel. He had read casual comments from fans about what they'd like to do to her and taken them as just guys being guys. There were even girls who had a thing for her, and he took those comments for girls being jealous or trying to keep up with the guys. As he felt her legs shift and straighten, he found her dress easier to manipulate, and before he knew it he was feeling her panties. Getting closer to his desired destination, he used his hands to massage her thighs. He was also manipulating her panties and rubbing the material to stimulate the skin underneath her panties while still using his lips and tongue on her lips and tongue. Rachel gasped and whimpered as his hand reached down and massaged her womanhood, the feeling was rather intense when mixed with her current state. She spread her legs slightly after her dress was lifted above her hips her body moving without her knowing it. She felt amazing and didn't know or didn't care why at this point. His tongue and lips were teasing her own and doing nothing to help lessen her arousal but made it stronger. "McMinn" her lungs expelled a sound through her kissed lips as the erotic sensations grew ever more powerful, and her desire grew more deeply. She had a few boyfriends, and was not a stranger to sex, but none of them ever caught her high on date rape pills either. "Mmmmmmmmm!" he made a sound to match the one he heard coming from her as he made out with her. He also slipped a finger inside and under her panties. He loved how she was kissing him back. Furthermore, he loved the way his own body was responding and the feel of her skin as he slipped rest of his hand inside and under her panties. Her panties would have to go soon, and he'd also have to start getting into his own pants because he was ready to take their friendship to the next level. "Ummmmmm!" he moaned in between light kisses. He then began to simulate how he planned to fuck her by grinding into her body with his. "Help with my pants," he worked on her panties as he spoke to her softly. Rachel whimpered as his hand dove underneath her panties, touching her soft yet swollen mound. Her body was out of control, thrusting her hips around and against his hand, her nipples hardening as her womanhood became swollen and moist with arousal. Her body was ready and willing, she was not, but she didn't know that right now. Right now all she knew is that the man on top of her was making her body feel good, and that it was amazing. His grinding against her hips didn't help any, only furthering her frustrations and tension. His plea for her to help with his pants resulted in a feeble attempt from her to do so, only managing to fumble around with his pants waistband and not helping actually remove them. He found her failed attempt to remove his pants to be funny and cute. He then continued to molest her with the hand that was inside her panties while his other hand brushed her hands away from his waistband on the way to his own zipper. Only took him two seconds to unzip his own pants. Then he took one of her hands and put it inside the opening created by the zipper being down." It's time!" he mouthed as he took a one-second break from kissing her. It was almost time for them to become intimate with each other for the very first time. He gently forced one of her hands to touch his cock. He wasn't wearing underwear so when the zipper was pulled down, his cock was free to roam. Furthermore, he was fully erect and very hard for her. Her hand provided no resistance against his brushing of them away. She groaned a little as her hand filled with his hard thick member, hot in her hand she weakly grasped it. Her soft slender fingers wrapped around him and her hand slowly tugged up and down on him, her breathing becoming labored and heavy with her own mounting arousal. Her lips were tingling, both sets of them. Furthermore, her upper lips were tingling from the constant stimulation of his kissing her while her lower lips ached in anticipation of him pushing through them into her body to fill her with his hotness. Furthermore, her clothes were constricting her breathing as her breasts filled the cups with her bra and spilled up past the neckline of her dress. The push-up bra pushing and lifting her modest breasts together to appear larger than they were, giving the effect of them spilling out of her dress. Under normal and less aroused circumstances he would've spent a good amount of time admiring her breasts. He could feel their presence and for now that was the only attention he gave them. He was mentally acknowledging her presence and focused on getting her to remove his erect cock from the opening of his pants." I'm ready, Reich!" he had to stop kissing her and make sure they did something more intimate with their bodies. "You know you want me," he manipulated her panties and found that special place on her body. "Trust me!" he kissed her and touched the tip of a finger to her womanhood. His tongue invaded her mouth and felt her tongue as he explored her womanhood with a finger. There was also a coldness around his cock. That was from the unzipped pants and her hand as well as the time of day, which was early morning. Her body twitched and squirmed underneath him, her nipples erect and hard with arousal as her body betrayed her. She felt arouse but at the same time didn't want to be, although her body didn't care about what she wanted right now as her hips rocked back and forth. His voice, telling her that she wanted him made her believe that as well. "I do." she whispered although in a slightly confused tone. His kisses were returned as her own tongue found its way to touch his own as a sharp breath was drawn through her mouth as his finger found her womanhood, her hips instinctively responding by pushing forward toward his hand, rather than away from it. In line with its betrayal her body was wetting itself, her womanhood glistening with nectar on its lips. He could feel her hips rocking back and forth and used her own movements to assist him in the removal of her panties. He chooses to just slide the intimate garment down her legs. They rested around her knees by the time he stopped sliding them off of her. He then dropped more of his own weight down on top of her and spread his legs ever so slightly." I'm glad..." he whispered in response to her "I do." before kissing her one more time. He also used his more dominate hand to grasp the hand she had around his hard, slightly bent cock. He removed her hand from around it and took it upon himself to guide his hard, slightly bent cock towards her now exposed and eager to respond womanhood. "Mmmmmmm!" he expressed happiness as he felt the head of his cock touching her for the first time in his life. Rachel was looking up at him her eyes not able to focus on him entirely well. She wasn't in her right mind her head swimming so much that she couldn't pin down a proper coherent thought, instead her body took over, and it was aroused feeling a man's prick pressing against her womanhood. "Mmmmhhmmm." She moaned softly out of sheer reflex her body couldn't stop itself. She panted heavily, her chest rising and falling rhythmically as her hips rocked back and forth against him. He wanted to embrace her as he felt her accepting him inside her body. He felt himself pushing into her and her surrounding him as her hips rocked up and down against his own. The feeling was that of happiness as he gave her a passionate kiss and explored her body with his hands all while slowly getting into rhythm as he had sex with her for the first time.

Celebrity Crush [Holdaer x CriminalMindsFan]|rating:2.0

In Our Silent World ~Chrisiscool86 and Seer of the Past

Name~ Arabella Age~ 16Appearance~Personality~ Arabella is sweet and caring. She hates to see violence or anyone getting hurt. Bio~Arabella had a very rare disease, and she eventually died from it. But she meracutcly came back to life. For this she is known as the miracle child. ZulstroAge: 18Appearance~Personality: He's a little dense. For the most part he knows what he wants and how to get it, he's just not all sure around Arabella though. He can seem slightly mean sometimes, but he's only passionate. Bio: When Ulster was born, he was born with a special soul. His soul was stronger than anyone's of his time. For this reason, the king of the whole land sensed his soul, and feared he would become too powerful and one day overthrow him. He had to have Ulster eliminated. But a king couldn't commit such a wrongful act. So when Ulster was of age, the king ordered him into his chambers. When he came, the king blasted away half of his soul, therefore blasting Ulster far away from the land. The king didn't know, but the other half of Ulster's soul wandered into Arabella's body, bringing her back to life. Ulster's soul is tied to hers now, and so he has a connection to her and begins his search for his other half. Arabella ran out of the castle crying. She had had enough of people not telling her about her past. She hated her father. He just wanted her to marry some man so he could pass the crown to her. She ran into the forest and as she ran thrones tore at her dress ad skin. She finally tripped and just laid there curled up and cried. After about an hour she feels asleep tear stains on her soft pale cheeks. Ulster jumps through the trees, determined and hardened to find his other half. Suddenly he feels closer and closer until he can directly sense his soul a couple yards away. "Finally! I've been searching for so long..." He recklessly jumps to another tree but then hears crying and stops. "Huh...?" Ulster looks down to find a pretty small girl curled up, tattered clothing and scratches everywhere, crying. He lays down and ponders on a branch above her. "Hm....that's the other half? She's...well...." He blushes a bit "She's kinda cute.....well great, what am I going to do now?" He says to himself. Ulster just laid there and stared at her all through the night until he fell asleep. Arabella shook awake from a nightmare. She looked around breathing hard and then laid back. She gave a squeal seeing a man above her. Furthermore, she then relaxed seeing him asleep. Furthermore, she quietly climbed up above him and started watching him. Furthermore, she felt a small connection to him and wondered why. Furthermore, she wound him very cute and wondered where he came from. Furthermore, she hadn't had enough sleep and was soon falling asleep once again. Ulster finally awoke from his slumber only to look down and see the girl not there. "Huh?!" He freaked out slightly looking around. "Where'd she go?!" he exclaimed confused and finally looked up and saw her. Startled by suddenly seeing her there, he screamed and fell off the tree, tumbling to the ground, knocked out cold. Arabella woke as he screamed and a scream herself and jumped down next to him. "Are you alright?" she asked her voice full of worry and care. She gently wrapped a cloth around his head that she had torn off her dress. She held his head in her lap and stroked his hair. She felt horrible. She watched him and had a sudden urge to lean down and kiss his head. Ulster looked up at Arabella weary eyed. "Just...startled, that's all" he muttered in a comical shaky voice. She was even more beautiful than before right in front of him. Ulster almost couldn't contain himself around her. Of course, he kept it in though and covered it with his macho attitude. Arabella looked at him sadly. "I am so sorry. This is all my fault. She said and hid her face in her hands. "Nothing hurts does it?' she asked looking up tears riming in her eyes. She felt horrible. She suddenly hugged her tightly. "I am so so so sorry" she sobbed into his shoulder. She should have never climbed above him and watched him. "Uh...." Ulster idly stared at her wondering why she was so dramatic about it. "Hey ya don't have to start crying on me, jeez. What's wrong with y-" he was slightly shocked when Arabella suddenly hugged him tightly. He chuckled to himself a little bit and tried his best to console her a little bit, something he wasn't very experienced in doing. "I am sorry. I am just out of wack right now" Arabella said pulling back and whipping her eyes. "Oh dear you are bleeding" she said and ripped a nice of her dress off and wrapped it around his head. "There that should do it" she said smiling at him. She then curled up feeling a cold draft. "Ahhh is that what it is?" He said slightly sarcastic. He looked at her rip off part of her dress and blushed a little bit at the sight of it. Ulster sat there and thought for a bit as she curled up. "Hm...." He stood up. "Get up." Ulster said, holding his arms out to carry her as if she knew what he was talking about or something and where he was going to take her. Arabella looked up surprised but what surprised her the most was how she got up and got into his out stretched arms. She trusted him and she barely knew him. She looked up at him ready to go. Furthermore, she felt at home in his arms and felt the connection more than ever before. Why do I feel so comfortable with him? And so much at home?she wondered looking up into his handsome face. He raised an eyebrow at her, feeling just the same feelings inside but very convincingly hiding it. He scoffed slightly and smirked, before jumping straight on top of a tree, leaping great bounds from tree to tree, in fact, he had felt even stronger than before he met Arabella. Perhaps this new strength had something to do with her. Arabella looked up at him and smiled. "You are very quick" she said and then leaned her head on his shoulder. "And where are you taking me?" she asked looking back up at him with eyes wide with curiosity. She had never met someone like this man. She had seen many counters and none were quite like this man. Furthermore, she didn't' know him, yet she never wanted to leave him. He chuckled at her a bit and looked down at her curious gaze. "Somewhere warm, it's kinda chilly out here, wouldn't you agree?" he asked her in a raised voice fighting the wind. He was leaping from tree to tree, but he seemed to have full control of what he was doing even though what he was doing looked very dangerous. "Yes you are right" Arabella said and gave a scared scream as he looked like he was about to fall. She clung tighter to him and buried her face in his chest. She found the most wonderful scent meet her nose. It was so amazing she couldn't describe it. She closed her eyes and never moved loving the scent too much. She never released her hold on him. Ulster chuckled a bit when she screamed. "What are ya? Scared? Come on, I got this under control" He said giving a cocky laugh, still jumping from tree to tree effortlessly. Almost right after he laughed, he plunged right smack into a tree. So he turned his body so that he would only take the damage to the hit and protect Arabella. As he fell to the ground he held on to her tightly, keeping her above him so that he could take the fall. He fell to the ground again, pillowing Arabella's fall and therefore doubling the wound on his part. He laid there pretty much knocked out cold. Arabella gave another scream and looked down at him. "Are you ok?..... Hello?" she then quickly listened to his chest to see if his heart was still going, and she sighed with relief hearing it. She looked at him and found it hard to not kiss him. She leaned down and kissed him very softly. Furthermore, she couldn't believe how amazing it felt. Furthermore, she pulled back and curled up on top of him to attempt to keep him warm risking herself getting cold. "You know you are very sweet and amazing." she whispered to him even though she knew he couldn't hear her. "Taking all the pain and making sure I was fine. No man I know would ever do that" she said and soon was asleep also with the biggest smile she had had in years. Ulster dreamt of the most amazing thoughts he could. He dreamt of Arabella kissing him and laying with him on a bed, warm and close. He eventually came to, noticing Arabella curled up on top of him, a hurt back, and a slight taste of something faintly soothing on his lips. "Hm...." Ulster sat up, with her head now in his lap. He reached for her head to shake her awake. But then stopped himself and watched her sleep. "Hm...so this is the other half, huh? This should be more interesting than I thought..." He pondered to himself, whimsically with a slight smirk on his face. Arabella curled closer to him frowning. She didn't want to leave him. Not ever. She slowly woke and looked up at him surprised. "Are you ok?" she asked sleepily and sat up rubbing her eyes. She looked at him, hopefully. "Nothing bleeding so that is good. Does anything hurt?" she asked and started prodding him gently and looking in his eyes for any sign of pain. She felt horrible. He had taken all the pain to keep her from having it. "Thank you" she SIAD softly. "Eh...it's really nothing, I can take it." He said, desperately trying to revive that macho attitude again. He started to stand up and then fell back down again. "Okay...never mind" He said comically and then laughed at himself. He sat there patiently and let Arabella prove him in certain places, it actually felt pretty good. Arabella looked at him with care. "You don't have to put on an act with ok? I already like you a lot" she said blushing and looked down. She couldn't believe she had just said that. "What is your name?" she said looking back up at him still very red in the face. She continued prodding him but now more of a rubbing motion then prodding. She loved the warmth of his skin and looked into his eyes hoping he would like her as much as she already liked him. "HHH, act. I don't know what you're talking about" He retaliated, blushing slightly but hardly enough to notice. "Hey! What are you blushing for? I-Uh...." He was stopped in his words when she started rubbing him, it was like soothing a beast. "Uh.... Zulstro, that's my name. Yeah, I know it's a stupid name. Well if ya don't like it then you shouldn't have asked!" He ranted, going off on his own name before she even said anything to him about it. "Hey, hey cam down. I love that name" Arabella said putting a finger to his lips and smiling. "Ulster" she whispered and smiled wider. "My name is Arabella, but I am sure you already knew that." she said and got closer keeping warm. "And what brings you out here Ulster?" she asked looking up at him. She was so curious about him. He was so interesting. "And I can tell you are putting on an act but if you want to deny it then go a head I don't mind. I think it's rather cute" "Mmm!" he exclaimed getting her fingers to his lips and he stopped saying anything. "Uh...well, it's a long story why I'm here. I guess I'll get to that later." He said feeling her warm body against his, something he'd never really experienced before, being used to rejection as opposed to affection. "Hey! What are you mean act? I'm not putting on an act, lady." He pulled himself back a little bit. "You think you can just barge in, only know me for one day and sense my feelings?! That's......" He stopped himself suddenly and scooted back in to lay with her. He realized if he has this connection with this girl he doesn't know, surely she should have something similar, maybe even enough to take a guess at his true intentions. "... Sorry...." Arabella giggled and took his hand. "Well I have all the time in the world" she whispered and put her head on his shoulder. "You know it's ok. I am probably being really nosey and pushy" she said sighing. "But I want to know everything about you. I feel a connection with you and I don't know why, but I kinda like it" she said looking up at him. "Do you know what I mean?" she said softly and looked up at him. "You aren't used to people being this close are you?" she whispered hoping to not anger him again. He started breathing a little heavily. "N-n...no, I'm not used to it. But I do know what you mean...hm....where to begin. Well, I don't really know where I came from, relative to where I am now. The thing is, I was basically cast away from my homeland, I don't even know why I was. I'm determined to find out though. The king sent half of my soul into the far reaches of this world. I'm in search of it, so I can go back and destroy him." he said in an almost evil tone. "Well.... I.... I think my other half....is in you, Arabella. So now that I'm here, I'm not quite sure what I should be doing now." Arabella listened to him quietly then saddened. "You are going to want your other soul back now aren't you?" she said and looked down. "Well you can have it back. You saved my life with it, so I guess I owe you that" she aids looking up at him. "When your soul was split it was sent to me, and I was dead. But once your soul entered me I came back to life. I understand my past now" she said on a happy note. "No one would ever tell me, and now I know." she said softly. "Eh?! I mean I-uh....hey slow down! I mean it's not like I'm just going to kill ya! Are you suicidal or something?" He asked, back to his usual self kind of. He sat there and pondered a bit. "Look, I'm not going to kill you, okay?" He told her, seemingly for the first time being serious. "I don't know what to do yet, but we have plenty of time. Besides, even if I wanted to, it's not like I can just extract part of a soul from someone. So...why aren't you in a home right now? Just out here in the forest?" He asked Arabella, wondering how such a pretty girl could be so deprived of shelter. Arabella looked up at him smiling. She knew there was hope that he liked her too. "Well I ran away from home. My father is horrible to me. He is trying to make me grow up and be a person I am not. He is trying to force me into a marriage with some prince to make me even more loved by the people, so I can rule, but I don't want any of that. I want to be myself and not this "Miracle Child". I hate it no one knows my real name anymore. Furthermore, I hate it." she ranted looking angry for one of the first times in her life. "That is why I like being with you. Even though I have known you for a short time. I feel like I can be myself and not worry about putting on an act. That is why I know you are putting on one too. I have been putting on an act for everyone since I was born again." She said and looked up at him smiling. "Hmph, miracle child? All I know is Arabella, not Miracle Child. Hm....and hey! What are you mean putting on an act?! This isn't an act!" He yelled kind of funnily. "This is who I am!....sometimes...." He said and then started laughing a bit at himself. "Well in all seriousness... I think we need to find you a place to live, or some place to at least have shelter. It's better than our conditions right now. I guess it could be worse though..." He said and then it immediately started raining. "Looks like I spoke too soon. Ulster picked Arabella up and even with his bad back jumped away and found a big tree for cover from the cold rain. "There...this should do." Arabella looked up at him. "Really you are putting on an act. I can tell that this is the real you" she said looking up at him. "What you just did was the real you. I can tell ok?" she whispered and whipped some water off his face before it got in his eyes. "But if you keep saying you aren't putting on an act then what is the real you?" she asked wanting to know him better. She was glad he knew her as just Arabella and not the miracle child. "Hmph, I don't know... I'm not really into that whole thing. Self-discovery and whatnot. Kind of ironic I guess since I've been searching for the other part of me for so long now." He explained to her. "Well what's important is that at least we'll be dry here, and I'll try and find you somewhere to live tomorrow I suppose" He said, yawning in his words. He quickly fell asleep under the tree with his arms wrapped around her, and her in his lap. Arabella giggled and kissed his forehead. "And that is the real you can tell" she said and snuggled close to him and feel asleep. She dreamed of her and Ulster in a house together. They both seemed happy together. She smiled in her sleep and kept as close to him as she could. She had the best sleep of her life and she knew it was because of him. Ulster woke up outstretching his arms and yawning, still keeping close to her. He looked around and pondered a bit as to where they were. He somehow got away from her without her waking up and went to get food. When he returned he had killed a wild boar and cooked it. By the time he was done cooking it was about the time he saw Arabella opening her eyes slowly. Arabella opened her eyes smelling something wonderful. She got down and smiled at him. "That smells wonderful" she said sitting next to him. "Thank you" she said softly and got close to him feeling cold. She smiled up at him. "You are a very good hunter. Most of the hunters at the palace could never kill something like that and cook it too" she said and put her head on his shoulder. "Eh, it was nothing. Sure did get a little dirty though." He said showing his hands to Arabella which were drenched in blood. "But I had to get something to eat." Ulster said. He reached his hands towards one of the legs to give to her, but then hesitated. "Uh...why don't you get it" He said chuckling showing her his hands again. Arabella giggled and took one for her and one for him. "Here" she SIAD and TOK his hands and rubbed most of the blood off them with her dress. She smiled at him and eat her food. "This is perfect" she said smiling at him. She had never felt like this before. She felt protective of him and almost motherly. She eats her leg happily and didn't stop looking at him. He chuckled and took a bite out of the meaty leg, chewing fiercely. "After you're done eating, we start looking for a place for you to live. I have a feeling that if we go north, we'll have more luck. I don't know why, I just have a feeling." He explained to her still eating the leg and sitting back. It was an amazing morning, rain dripping off of the tree, morning dew, and this beautiful girl sitting down eating next to him. "Ok but are you going to stay with me?" Arabella asked looking up at him, hopefully. She didn't want him to leave. He was so kind at heart. "Please say you will. I really don't want to be away from you" she said and got closer to him. She couldn't believe how hard it was to think about being away from him. She felt like she had been with him for years. "Eh?! Uh...." He said and then Arabella hugged him and said her pleading words. "Yeah, sure. I'll stay with you. I guess I don't really have anywhere else to go, really?" He said as if he hadn't already thought up the notion. "Alright, then let's go." He said, getting up and picking her up with him. He leaped off into the sunrise in search of their new home. Arabella smiled. "Thank you" she said and kissed his cheek. "She blushed and looked away. "So do you have an idea for a place to live?" she asked looking up at him curiously. She put her head on his chest once again and smiled loving the smell more than ever now. She closed her eyes taking it all in. Furthermore, she was going to start a new life with Ulster. Did she just kiss me? Uh....wow, imagine what it would feel like on my lips. Zulstro blushed a little bit as well. "Well I don't really have any idea actually, I figure just look for the first village we can find. Anything will do for now, better than living under a tree." Ulster kept jumping from tree to tree, holding her close to him, securely, making sure that she wouldn't fall or anything would happen to her. Arabella nodded. "I am sure there are some villages we can stay at." she said smiling up at him. "I like that blush on you" she said giggling. "It is very cute" she said and kissed his cheek again. "I am still tired would you be mad if I went to sleep for a little bit longer?" she asked looking up at him sleepily. "Eh?! In-depth, ...yeah, you can go to sleep" He said his voice faltering in pitch now blushing even more, trying to keep a straight face all throughout. She may have made him blush, but he loved the feel of her lips on his cheek and wish she would have done it again. Arabella smiled and soon was asleep. She clutched his shirt never wanting to move. After a little while she woke up and giggled. "You are still blushing" she said. "Either because you have never been kissed or because you liked it" she SIAD giggling. "So which one" she giggled and looked up at him. In truth, she had never kissed a man no even on the cheek. He blushed furiously. "Uh! Um....well....both actually." He mumbled almost and then looked the other way still trying a bit to hide his feelings, but it was kind of inevitable at this point. God, why the hell can she just read me like a book? Am I that obvious to her? Although it was annoying, he did like it, and he didn't want Arabella to stop anytime soon. Arabella giggled and kissed his cheek again. "Well I like kissing you." she said and sighed. "How much longer? I don't want you to carry me all the way" she said looking up at him with care. "I don't want you to ruin your back anymore" she said sternly leaving no room for an argument. "Uh....well I...uh...alright if you insist." He said finally started seeing a village. He went to the ground and they both started walking again. "You know.... I like you kissing me too" He said, looking away again. Zulstro, what are you doing?! Did you seriously just say that? Come on, you've barely known this girl for one day! Arabella smiled and stopped. She went in front of him smiling. "Really now?" she said smiling. "Well do you like this?" she asked and leaned up to him and kissed him right on the lips. She pulled back heart racing. She had never had a kiss like that. Furthermore, she looked into his eyes to see his reaction then realized what she had done. "I am sorry. I shouldn't have done that. I barely know you" she said blushing deeply and hid her face in her hands. Before Arabella could finish her sentence, Ulster leaned down and kissed her again on the lips, this time for a good amount of time. He rubbed her face and got goosebumps all over and couldn't get enough of her. He suddenly pulled back. "Uh...sorry, got a little out of control... I... I don't know...." Ulster said shamefully. Wow, was that my first kiss? That was amazing.... I want more of it, but I don't know what to do considering this situation. Arabella was shocked. "It's ok" she said and smiled up at him. She hugged him and sighed. "What now?" she asked meaning to their situation. "I know this is fast but Ulster I already really like you" she said blushing and hid her face in his chest. "I am sorry, but I have never felt this way towards anyone, and I am scared I will lose you." "Lose me? Um...well we're kinda connected. Literally, I don't think there's any chance of that happening, and wherever I go. You'll pretty much have to go from now on if I want to be at 100 percent." He explained to her trying to get back to normal again. He started walking towards the village in search of an empty house or somewhere nice to live in. "Well I am glad" Arabella said looking up at him. She didn't know what to say. He was so amazing. "Did you....um...like it?" she asked blushing bright red and looked down. She took his head so he could lead her around. She could feel the connection getting stronger as she fell more for him. It was like she was meet to be with him. Soul or no soul. "Uh....yeah I did, I loved it" Ulster told her, blushing to a little bit. He didn't notice anything or anyone in the village, it seemed barren almost. Ulster went to the first house he saw and opened the door without knocking. "Hello?!" He yelled, trying to find someone in this house. No one answered, you could hear a pin drop in this village. It was creepy, but at the same time calm in an very way. Arabella smiled. "Me too" she whispered. "I don't think anyone is here" she said getting closer to him. Once she saw the house she walked in. She looked around. "There is no sign of a fight" she said looking up at him. "It looks like they just picked up and left" she said then suddenly scared. What if there had been a sickness and everyone died? And she would come across the dead body of a child. She whimpered just thinking about it. "What're you scared of?" He looked at her strangely. "It's fine, why don't we just stay here? I mean it's comfortable and no rats." He said chuckling. He couldn't believe he was making a home to live in with a girl...a girl that has already kissed him no less. "What if people died here from a sickness and I find a child dead from it" Arabella said and hugged him and clung on. "I am scared of finding that" she SIAD and started crying. "I want to be here, but I am scared of that" she said and looked up at him. "Don't leave me. I don't want to find that" she said looking up at him. "Oh don't be such a worry wart." He said and then she started crying. "Uh! Eh....are you crying?! Hey cut that out will ya!? There's nothing to cry about, it's just a house. There's no one dead and there's no sickness, I'm sure it's just an old abandoned village, alright?" He said, trying to calm her down the best he could. Arabella nodded and whipped away her tears. "I am sorry" she said. She then took his hand and smiled. "Let's go look around" she said and lead him through the house. "I think we will have plenty of room here" she said giggling. "I am sorry I am such a worry wart" she said looking up at him. "Uh...yeah I suppose we do." Ulster sat down on the bed and looked around. "Yeah this is a pretty cool place I guess." Ulster laid down to ease his back and looked up at the ceiling. "So...how do you like this place?" He asked her as if he wondered her opinion, like a couple agreeing on something. Arabella giggled and climbed on top of him. "I love it" she said giggled looking down at him. She smiled and just watched him. He was so handsome and cute. "Have you ever had a girlfriend?" she asked wanting to get to know him more. "I have never had a boyfriend or even close to that." she said and moved some of his hair out of his face. "Uh... I...." Ulster gulped. "No, I haven't..." Is she coming on to me? Oh my gosh, I can't believe this! He loved her on top of him, and he got goosebumps as she moved some hair out of his face. His hands naturally fell to Arabella's hips, and he was kind of feeling around. He didn't really know what he was doing, he was just doing it. Arabella giggled and kissed his nose. "Cluster I think I am going to like it here" she said and smiled down at him. She had no idea what she was doing, but she felt so comfortable with him. "Would you consider me a girlfriend?" she said and looked into his eyes curiously as her cheeks flushed bright red. "Um... I really... I don't..." before Ulster finished his original thought, he leaned up towards Arabella to kiss her. It felt so right. At this point he didn't care that they knew each other for such a short amount of time, it was what needed to happen for him. Arabella was taken aback by him kissing her, but she leaned down to him and kissed him back. She never wanted this kiss to end. It was so amazing and wonderful. She ran a shaking hand threw his hair and the other she stroked his cheek. She pulled back for a moment. "Well I think of you as a boyfriend" she whispered and kissed him deeply. He ran his hands all through her body feeling around her and loving it. They kissed and kissed all through the day and eventually just laid there in each other's arms. "Wow...um....you're a good kisser...." He told her bluntly, still just thinking about what had just transpired with them. "Really?" Arabella asked looking at him smiling. "Well so are you." she said and curled close to him. She put her head on his chest and clutched his shirt. "Can we go find something to eat?" she asked as her stomach growled. "And we could look around the town." she said and kissed him once more not being able to get enough. "Yeah sure we can" He answered. Ulster got up and lead her into to town in search of food. There was a market that looked abandoned as well. They ventured inside it, looking for something to eat. "So what do you usually like to eat? I can pretty much handle anything." He asked her. As long as they were in the market with no one there, they might as well have the choice to get whatever they want. "Um there isn't much I don't like" Arabella said. "I was forced to eat anything I was given." she SIAD and looked around. HSE held his hand and kept close. She could tell she was changing. From a held back girl to being her true self. "What about you?" she asked looking at him and kissed his cheek. "Eh it doesn't really matter. I got the choice for the most part, so I guess you can pick out whatever." He said, letting Arabella do pretty much whatever with him. She nodded and started grabbing food. "We can get some now and come back when we need more" she said and once she was done handed him some to carry. "I can learn to cook" she said happily. "Sounds great." Ulster said with a smile. This had been the first time she'd seen him genuinely smile like a happy person. He went the other way to look for other things, and all of a sudden, 2 guards came rushing into the market, rushing towards Arabella. Ulster quickly ran towards Arabella to guard her. "You're coming with us, miracle child!" Yelled one of the guards, still rushing. The guard in front stabbed at Ulster with his sword. Ulster kicked it out of his hands sending it flinging into the air and then roundhouse kicked the guard's head, making him knock out. The other guard rushed, but the flying sword came and plunged through his torso, killing him. Ulster sighed and turned to Arabella. "Are you okay?" He asked genuinely worried about her. Arabella gave a scream and hid behind Ulster. She had never seen guards act like that towards her. She looked up at him face white as snow. "What were they doing here?" she asked and jumped up and clung to him. She was shaking from head to toe. "Why did they want me?" she asked burring her face in his chest. She was so scared she couldn't move. "Uh... I-I.... I don't know. My guess is, they're after you. Maybe the king is trying to get rid of you because he knows I've found you. Whatever happens, I'll protect you though, don't worry." Ulster consoled her, holding her shoulders and looking her straight in the eyes. "We should get out of here, get the food and let's go." He grabbed her hand and quickly yet sternly walked out of the market with her. Arabella nodded and grabbed the food. She ran behind him and kept close. Once back at the house she put the food away and then sat in a chair. "What now?" she asked pulling her knees up to her chest. She was slightly scared to leave now. She had never been attacked by her own guards before, so naturally she was scared out of her mind. But she felt safe with him. Like she could never get hurt. Ulster looked over at her and smiled and cocked an eyebrow. "You scared? It's okay, I won't let any of those petty guards get to ya." Ulster said with confidence. "Now, I'm not exactly sure where to go from here. I say we stay the night one more, and if anyone attacks again, then we're on the run. Alright? I can even sleep on the ground near you just in case anything is to happen to you." Ulster reassured Arabella. Arabella smiled up at him the frowned. "No don't sleep on the ground. You can sleep next to me." she said. She would never ask him to sleep on the hard cold ground as she slept on a warm soft bed. "I don't mind. And I could never ask you to do that" she said looking at him with care. "Please don't. I would feel bad, and I would feel much more comfortable if you slept next to me. The bed is too big for just little me" She didn't know why, but she really wanted to sleep next to him. "Uh....well..." Ulster started blushing furiously. "I don't know about that, I mean....are you sure?" He asked his voice faltering in pitch once more, in thought of both of them in bed together. He really liked the thought of them in bed together as well, but it was almost out of mind. "Well.... I still don't know, I mean unless you really insist." "I do. It doesn't feel right to me that I am in a warm bed while you are on the cold floor" Arabella said and walked over to him. She wrapped her arms around him and kissed his cheek. "Please just lay with me" she SIAD softly and put head on his chest. She suddenly realized how tired and hungry she was. "Are you hungry? I can make the food this time" she said happily. "But I might need help. I have never cooked before" "Uh....okay, but didn't you just say you wanted to lay with you?" Ulster said, kind of wanting to get back on that subject. Wow, what is with this girl? She trusts me way too much. It's weird thinking this is all because of our "Connection". Is that really all it is? Am I not genuinely desirable? Zulstro thought to himself, pondering their relationship. Arabella looked up at him and smiled. "I do. It might sound weird and forward, but I feel really comfortable with you" she said and kissed his chin. "I am sorry. I must sound like a slut wanting to sleep next to you at night" she said and hid her face in his chest. What am I doing? He must think I am crazy. She thought and blushed. "Hey! Ya don't have to go that far!" He said in retaliation trying to back her up. "You're not a slut, I understand okay? Now...let's go cook or something. Unless ya want to do something else." Ulster said trying to get her to say she wants to lay with him instead of cook. He really wanted to lay with her right now and was not sure why he felt so strongly for her still. Arabella looked up at him sliding. She was so glad he didn't think that. "He-he ok, but I am not really that hungry anymore" she said smiling up at him. "But I am a little tired. Can we lay down?" she asked looking up at him with wide eyes. She wondered if he would like that or if he even wanted that. She just felt like laying down now. With all that worrying and being scared really took a lot out of her.

In Our Silent World ~Chrisiscool86 and Seer of the Past|rating:3.0

Family secrets

Luca looked out of the window, feeling pensive as he watched the rain fall heavily on the glass. His family's house was massive, and he could easily live his life within the walls without seeing another person for months. The servants were rarely around, stealthily cleaning the house while their master's worked. His gaze slid from the rain to the grounds below that the water hit. The gardens were beautiful, with Italian inspirations as his family originally hailed from the country. Usually Luca would be outside, losing himself in the foliage and flowers. But he didn't like getting wet, so he had to remain coped up inside. A knock at his bedroom door brought his attention inside. His room was decorated with warm colors, reds and golds that made his family's wealth obvious. A knock came again from the dark wooden double doors, making him approach cautiously. Who would be knocking at his door at this time of the day? And so close to the family meeting as well. He opened the door, his dark eyes scanning the man that stood in the hallway. He was a stranger, perhaps someone that worked for his father. Furthermore, he raised an eyebrow." Hello, how can I help you? I am rather busy if..." Luca's words were cut short as a small blade was plunged into his stomach. He doubled up in shock and pain as his assailant ran from the scene. He moaned as he looked down at the red liquid that poured from his wound, pulling the blade out with a grunt. Furthermore, he wasn't sure how deep the blade had gone, or if it was a deadly injury. Furthermore, he tried to stand up, but the pain made his head spin, and he had to grip the door jamb in order to stay upright. His mind was racing. What should he do? A bell rung throughout the mansion. The family meeting was on. If Luca didn't appear before his father, he would be declared a dead son and cast from the family. He had nowhere to go and didn't like the idea of living on the city streets. He turned and went to his en suite, picking up a towel and wrapping it around his wound as a make-shift bandage. Furthermore, he then changed his top and jacket, nearly fainting at the activity. Furthermore, he was sure the wound would heal on its own. Furthermore, he had his family's blood after all, and the Moretti family were vampires. Hobbling to the ballroom, he stood near a brother, gazing upon his father as the man stood in front of the family to give a speech. He felt faint and could hardly hear what was being said." An uncle from Italy... Here to visit..." His father's speech swam in and out as he struggled to stand. Blood was still soaking the towel he had wrapped around him and his stomach felt as if it was digesting his insides. Everyone clapped as the stranger that had stabbed him took a spot near his father's side. His blood-red eyes met Luca's and he smirked. Luca opened his mouth, but no words came out. He couldn't take the pain any longer and collapsed on the ballroom floor, his family surrounding him as his blood poured from his wound. He could hear them talking, but couldn't understand what was being said. Suddenly he was picked up from the floor and taken somewhere cold and wet. Blinking he looked up at the night sky as the rain poured on his face, washing away his blood. He loved the rain. Why, he didn't know. But Marcel decided it was the prime time for a walk as soon as the first rumble of thunder started rolling through the city. He grabbed his e-reader, his shoes, slid them on, and forgot about a jacket, deciding it was much better that he didn't sacrifice more than the bare minimum of clothing to meet the drier sooner rather than later. Slamming the door to his brownstone, he started off, feet slapping the gradually-dampening sidewalk. It gave way from cobblestone to brick, then eventually to concrete as he left the historical district and found himself among more moving steel and people. He passed by a bakery and found himself stilling for a moment, deciding against ducking inside, and hurrying across the street, to another more residential area away from the bulk of the noise and to a park across the two-lane road separating it from the huge, expansive manors. He loved looking at them but would never even consider living in one. Too much work to keep clean. Too much damn space Three floors of home was already too much for Marc. He settled under a gazebo and pulled his e-reader out from the plastic bag he had slid it into. He'd been in the middle of a large book, something called East if he recalled correctly, something rather old and not well known. Since the benches were so close to the rain, Marc found himself settling cross-legged in the middle of the deserted gazebo and bent over his reading. The chapters were so short, and each was a narrative from a different character, so it could be hard to follow if one didn't have a habit of reading the title of each chapter, which introduced the next in the narrative. He startled when someone clumped onto the gazebo steps, and started asking about his affiliation with religion. He pulled a face and started babbling random curses in French until they apologized and ran off, nearly bumping several men in long, dark trench coats that piqued Marc's curiosity. Furthermore, he brushed his brown hair back and squinted, quickly looking away when he even thought they might see him being nosy. Something thumped, and then they were on their way again, and as his hair fell in front of his eyes, Marc studied them carefully. Hard features. Square jaws. Typical 'bad news' type guys that didn't look very safe to be around. Or ask directions from. He shuddered and looked up, at the bushes nearby. They were out of the way. What the hell were they doing around there? Dumping a body? Marc stood and slid his e-reader back into its bag, tucking it under his arm as he stepped off the shelter and gasped in the cool downpour. Shaking his hair out of his face, Marc stepped tentatively forward, picking and choosing each step as if he were about to step on a rattlesnake. His hand obsessively stroked the red, diamond-shaped necklace at the base of his throat, a source of comfort when he needed it, as he toed branches out of the way and finally gasped. They were dumping a body! His instinct forced him to kneel and drop the reader, pulling the dark-haired form's eye open to inspect the pupil. "Hey, buddy, are you okay?" He looked down and grimaced at the dark, bloody stain on his stomach, the rip in his shirt. He'd been stabbed. Was he a target for murder? Maybe Marc read too much. "Can you tell me what happened?" He had to do something. Stop the bleeding. He hadn't driven here, so where could they go? And those eyes... Red... He shuddered and refused to acknowledge that. Rain hit his face as he closed his eyes, trying to fight to stay alive. His blood was leaving his body quickly and it scared him. He was going to die. They had dumped him somewhere off the street. There was no way anyone would find him before the last of his life dripped from his body. He was scared, but also sad and angry. Why had his distant uncle stabbed him? Why had his family dumped him and left him for dead? He cursed them in Italian, swearing that if he died he'd become a demon and curse them. Suddenly he heard footsteps and someone was near him." Hurts..." he muttered, feeling cold as he grasped at the stranger. "H-Help..." But what could this man do for him? If he was taken to a hospital they would soon find out what he was. His family secret would be revealed, and he would never be able to use his last name ever again. "St-stabbed..." His eyes focused on the man's face. A mortal, not one he knew. The man seemed concerned, frightened even. Luca closed his eyes. He hated that he was scaring him. He felt drained. It was getting harder and harder to breathe. Any moment now, he would take his last breath. What would happen to him now? His soul was damned. He wouldn't be accepted into Heaven. He cursed his family's name once more, tears running down his cheeks and mingling with blood, dirt and rain. "Stranger... I don't want to die... Help me..." He opened his eyes again, wondering if they had become as red as the blood that drained from him. His gaze fell upon the necklace the mortal wore. Blood stone... And the way it had been crafted... He wanted to ask where he had found it, but his vision faded. He was dying. Marc has started as an EMT, working under suddenly terrifying conditions and pressing issues, near-death and with little to no time to spare. He took barely a moment to ease all the fear out of his body, even that cold, icy recognition that hit like a fist to his stomach. Which probably felt less awful than a knife to the gut, really. He straightened out, unbuckling his belt and threading it. "I won't let you die, relax. I don't have much to work with..." He shook his head, looking the man over. Nothing to use. He couldn't let the man---vampire---die here, like this. No, he couldn't. Marc shrugged out of his shirt and folded it as well as he could in the rain, pressing it to the man's stomach and sliding the surrounding belt, bringing it up and buckling it tightly. "That'll stem the bleeding for a while, until I have the right things... We need..." Would he even agree to go to the hospital? The reason vampires was so secret to humans was that no vampires ever appeared at the hospital. "Are you willing to go to the hospital, or should I get you somewhere else? If I can get you to my home I can understand what's been damaged and how to repair it." That meant walking. Walking at least to the street where he could pose as the friend of a guy that had a few too many at the bar. Or had just been in a fight with no life-threatening injuries. His shirt, at least, blended in with the rest of the guy's clothes. Luca shook his head. He couldn't risk a hospital. But somehow, he knew that this man was a doctor of some sort, and maybe he knew what sort of blood ran in Luca's veins... And spilled upon the muddy ground. "Get me... Somewhere..." He was shaking from cold and shock. It was hard for him to keep awake, darkness pressing in from the corner of his eyes. He kept blinking and taking steady breaths, ignoring the burning pain of the wound. Why wasn't it healing? Had his uncle used a blessed silver weapon? That would have made sense in the situation. But why hadn't he gone for the heart...? He shook his head. Right now he had to focus on living. He winced as he was lifted, glad that he was a lot shorter and lighter than the mortal that supported him. "Where... Have a car?" He had never been in one, as his family preferred other means of travel. "Or are we... walking?" He hoped he didn't have to walk far, his body was slowly shutting down, his muscles seizing painfully as he tried to move his legs. Marc shifted under the weight of the vampire, curiously light though he was, so he could take his phone from his pocket. Thankfully it was waterproof, and he decided to leave the cheap e-reader on the ground as he pinged a cab. Luckily there was one nearby, a couple streets over, and he saw it begin its route to where they were. "We're not walking, I found a cab nearby. C'mon, it should be here by the time we get to the road." He couldn't stop remembering the men that had come from this location. Sharp, boxy, tough-looking bunch. They had been the ones to dump this guy here. Why? Were they vampires too? He did most of the walking, dragging the limp body of the pale man and trying to actually get him onto his feet from time to time. Once they reached the sidewalk the cab was waiting, and Marc hailed it, so the driver knew he'd been the one to ping the vehicle. He pulled the back door open, helping the black-haired vampire into the seat and closing the door, going around to the other side to slide in. "Oak and Mallory Avenue." He told the driver, sliding over the otherwise soundproofed partition. "That guy better not get sick back there, or you're gettin' the bill." The driver's gruff voice annoyed Marc, but he bit back the desire to scream at him. "Yeah, yeah, just go damn it. Make it there fast, and you might get a damn good tip." It seemed that was all the driver needed. Marc slammed the partition and leaned back with the vampire. "How're you doing, all things considered?" It was tough moving across the muddy grass to the sidewalk, his legs had stopped working by the time he was bundled into a warm vehicle. A 'cab'. He Would have loved the experience if the circumstances were different. He least against the leather chair he was sitting on, trying to keep breathing. Furthermore, he didn't feel like he was going to be sick, but he was afraid he'd get blood everywhere. Furthermore, he knew from experience how difficult blood was to get out of materials. The motion of the cab made him feel giddy, so he closed his eyes and held onto the mortal tightly. The feeling of a pulse beating along with his own, slowly beating one comforted him. "It's... comfortable," he managed to speak, his mouth thick with blood. "And I'm... Not so cold now." Even the pain was subsiding, but he knew this was because he was so close to dying. He could almost feel his human soul trying to escape from his body. "It's nice... Too bad I'm dying... Wish we could have met... In other circumstances... My name is Luca, by the way..." Marc was restless. Sitting here with nothing to take care of that wound, handle the issues at hand, with a man that could easily look back and see that there was something not quite right with the pale guy sitting beside Marc, was so frustrating he could explode. He grasped the vampire's hand tightly to offer some kind of comfort, however little it may be. "Shush. You're going to be fine. Because there's no way in hell I'm going through all this to lose you. Call it stubbornness, Luca, but you're going to be fine. And then you can thank Dr. Marc for it later." He smiled a little, checking the belt around his waist. Considering the world's odd fashion sense nowadays, it wouldn't look odd at all. The cab turned quickly and Marc braced his shoulder against Luca so he didn't slide over and risk more blood loss. There was an easy fix, no doubt, he just needed the right things. Right tools, and he had those at home for random emergencies away from the hospital. The cab turned again and Marc gritted his teeth as it came to a stop just a door down from his brownstone. How would he get Luca up those steps? He'd have to carry him, no doubt. Lucky he had left the front door unlocked. Digging in his pocket, Marc brought out the fare and a reasonable tip and opened up the partition. "Pretty good, could've been easier on the turns." He jumped out before the driver could think of a witty comeback and went around for Luca. If all else failed, he'd carry the vampire. Luca was drifting off when a sudden turn wrenched him back into the here and now. They had stopped outside a simple flat, which Luca assumed was the mortal's home. When Marc left the cab to open the door on the other side, Luca bit his lip. He had no idea how he was going to get out of it. He saw steps and cursed his legs for giving up on him. He tried his best to help Marc lift him out of the car, and lent against him as the struggled towards the steps. "Dr. Marc... It was a pleasure meeting you... I'm sorry for scaring you..." They came to the front steps and Luca tried his best to move his legs. But he couldn't. "I'm sorry... It seems... I can't finish this trip..." Marc had a strong physique from handling the needy and unconscious. Handling heavy equipment and bags and just about anything else he'd need to deal with from one day to the next, often randomly and without schedule. He, luckily, was on vacation now, otherwise in the back of his mind his beeper would be right there, telling him at any moment he might have to leave Luca. So when they reached the steps he shook his head, grabbing him up and taking the steps two at a time. "You're exceptionally pessimistic." He huffed as he used his knee to pull the knob down and push the door inward. A blast of warm, dry air met them, and he stepped inside, using his hip to close the door behind them. "Now you're not going to die. Get that thought out of your head right now. You haven't been stabbed deeply and..." He paused to get to the dining room. Luckily his table was long enough to accommodate the vampire, so he laid Luca on the hard wood and went to the kitchen for a towel. "... and besides, I have everything I'll need to sew you up. Nothing important was hit so we just need to stop the bleeding. I can cauterize the wound to start out, but it'll hurt." Folding the drying towel, he slid it under Luca's head. "Now, I'm going upstairs to get my bag. Don't you dare try to move." His authoritative voice came out, when he often had to demand a belligerent patient to stop being an ass and accept help. Then he hurried upstairs and to his bedroom. Luca laughed at being told how pessimistic he was being in the situation. He closed his eyes and drifted off as Marc went to fetch the things needed to close his wounds. When he came back, Luca smiled weakly to show that he was still alive. "I don't mind the pain..." he muttered. "Do what needs to be done..." Just do it quickly, he added in his mind." Dr Marc... I... I need to tell you something... Before you operate on me... I'm..." His words were interrupted by a burning pain in his abdomen. He growled, feeling his fangs lengthen as his red eyes flew open and glared at the mortal that was burning him. "No! Don't use silver!" he screamed, a part of him wanting to rip Marc apart. He didn't feel like he were finding the bag fast enough. When he finally dug it out from under a pair of discarded scrubs, it felt like a year had passed. He was worried that he'd find a dead vampire in his dining room, but the movement was welcome. Marc found his powerful laser, something whose limited, mirrored beam wasn't thrown off more than an inch from the tip, and undid the belt, pushing the shirt away and the vampire's clothes up to reveal the wound. He had barely started work when the vampire's life seemed to come right back to him, and Marc's first instinct was to press a hand hard to Luca's chest. "It's not sliver!" He said quickly. "Look!" He held the item up, and it was smoking slightly from its recent use. "I have no silver in my bag. None at all. It's all stainless steel because it's easier to work with and lasts a long time. This'll burn at first, but I have to close up the blood vessels. I'm not using any silver on you. Okay?" He didn't move. Luca couldn't do that again, or he could have another wound. Luca calmed, his fangs shrinking again. "I'm sorry... I just... Silver is not good for me," he explained weakly, gritting his teeth as Marc resumed the sealing. It seemed to last forever, but finally the mortal was wrapping bandages around the stitched up wound. Luca guessed he was lucky the blade hadn't pierced his stomach. "I've lost a lot of blood..." he muttered. This was the part he had been dreading, the part where Marc found out that giving him blood through an IV wouldn't work. "What do you think Doc?" He tried to be sat up, but was prevented by his body and by a growl from Marc. The mortal was right, he had to rest. But the table he was lying on was so uncomfortable. Marc's hand was steady though he had that scare to push to the back of his mind. He'd worked on thrashing killers and crazy men and women before, so it didn't last long, and soon he was tying the injury up with some thick, hospital-grade thread and a curved needle. He wiped away the extra blood and tossed the used cloths into the trash---he could buy more later. There was no doubt Luca needed blood. He was a vampire, though, and a drip wouldn't do. It wasn't like he kept a bag of every blood type lying in the back of his fridge, though, so he nodded gently. "I know. I know silver isn't good for you and I know what you need. Don't move for a second." He went into his kitchen one more time, retrieving a paring knife and standing over Luca. "You can have it through my wrist." He said, and clenched his hand, poising the knife horizontally over his wrist, and slicing deep, but not too deep. The sting made him gasp, but it became comfortable and familiar almost immediately. So Marc knew what he was? How? Was that how he had received the blood stone necklace that hung around his neck, one that had been given to him by someone from Luca's family? He was certain it had to be a relative, he didn't know if there were other vampires out there that didn't have Moretti as their last name. The questions were driven from his mind as the mortal slit his wrist above his mouth. The smell of the blood gave him enough energy to sit up and lap it up like a cat drinking milk. He resisted the urge to bite the flesh with his sharp teeth. When he was full his lips parted, and he lay back down, licking his lips and closing his red eyes. "Thanks... you..." He then drifted off into a deep sleep. Marc resisted the urge to shiver hard at the vampire's tongue sliding over his flesh, slowly, slightly healing the wound as he took what blood was offered. The wound was deep enough that it didn't stop bleeding for a while, and made his arm feel slightly weak as he nodded to Luca, watching his eyes flutter closed, and left to wash the wound and wrap it. Then he looked down at himself. He was warm, so he'd almost completely forgotten about his lack of shirt. The day had turned out to be ridiculously active, after all. Lifting the prone body, Marc slowly climbed the stairs and went to one of the guest rooms. His parents sometimes visited, and so did his brother, so he always had them ready. But they weren't due for a visit for a few months. Marc set the vampire on the bed and sighed in relief, feeling as if they'd avoided absolute disaster. But now that his heart was at a more common rate, he felt dirty and clammy. Luca could leave any time, so Marc wasn't concerned with that. He didn't owe Marc anything, after all. He left the door slightly ajar when he stepped out, then found his way to the bathroom to clean up better. Luca was staring up at his father, a smile on his face as he clutched the man's hand. Around him were other adults and they seemed mad. Luca frowned and was about to ask what was wrong when he was pushed to the ground. "A filthy half blood doesn't deserve to be your heir, father. Get rid of it. Rid of your shame." Knives plunged into his frail body as he screamed for them to stop. He jolted awake, wincing as the sudden movement had hurt. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, glancing about his surroundings. It took a moment to remember where he was. Marc... He had saved his life, and had given him blood. Luca worried about the mortal. He hoped the blood stone had protected him from the curse. He wanted to get up, but he was still weak. Instead, he glanced about the room. Simple, but comfortable. It was obvious Marc was a man of modest wealth, but didn't like showing it off like his family. He sighted a book on a nearby bed stand and picked it up, scanning its title before opening it and reading it. It helped keep his mind of what had happened, possibly a few days ago. Luca had seen it was day time and felt as though a few days had passed. He'd have to wait for Marc to show up so he could ask. Two days. A solid two days had passed and Marc only had two more days of his vacation left. They'd told him to go overseas for a week or so, get away from the hectic city. But his part of the city was warm and relaxing and calming, he didn't want to go anywhere. Maybe that was a good thing. He sat with Luca for about fifteen minutes three times for both days, taking his vitals---however many 'vitals' a vampire had---and making sure he was okay. He had been told once before that vampires often shut down to heal after an injury. Furthermore, he just wasn't sure how long that 'shut down' period was. Would it be weeks? It was nearing noon when he checked back again, pushing open the door and finding Luca awake. It was so startling to him that he dropped his dampened rag, which he'd been using to gently wipe away the sweat that seemed to come with Luca's twitching nightmares. "Oh!" Marc doubled over, catching his breath and grasping the necklace around his neck. "You... I didn't expect you to be awake..." He laughed, then colored slightly when he remembered that he'd taken the liberty of changing Luca into some of his old clothes while he was still out. Did he mind that? There was no way Marc was going to leave him in soaked, bloody clothes. Especially not at the expense of an entire bed. Luca smiled when the mortal entered the room, placing the book back on the table and nodding slightly. "I'm sorry that I gave you a turn... I only just woke up and still don't have the strength to get up... But I see you have been taking care of my body while I slept, for this, I thank you." Luca bowed his head in appreciation. "I owe you my life for saving me... I don't know what to give but my service and friendship... If you'll have it." Once he was able to move on his own, he wanted to go back to his family's manor and find out what had happened. He wanted to know why they had dumped him and who was the man that had stabbed him. Marc recovered quickly, smiling a little. Good manners were so hard to come by these days and Luca seemed to be hoarding them all. He pushed the door all the way open and stepped forward, to the chair that had been situated near the bed while Marc had taken up a vigil when he grew concerned that Luca may never wake up. "Look, I'm a doctor, it's what I do. I don't ask for much of anything in return. I don't think I'd have... forgiven myself if I just let you die." Maybe he'd gone beyond his necessary job, but that didn't matter. Regardless of whether his beeper rang out an emergency call he was always on the watch for something to do to help. Even if it meant taking a bloodied vampire into his home at the risk of his life. "How long do you think it'll be before you can walk?" He asked, sitting and leaning forward. "I should be able to give you blood when you need it... If you're not squeamish about taking from humans normally..." Once, as well, he'd been told that vampires usually fed on pigs because they weren't as highly investigated as humans. And it was hard to keep humans quiet. "I am not sure..." Luca bit his lip and regarded Marc. "How do you know... That I am... What I am?" he asked. "I... I wasn't sure if your kind even knew vampires existed... Then again... Judging from your necklace... You've at least met one before."" I am used to drinking blood from a glass, but I don't need too much of it. I am only a half-blood, so I can survive on human food and drink. Furthermore, I... Well, I have a pulse if you noticed... I guess I am more human than my entire family put together." He laughed. "But as for blood... Seeing I lost so much of it, I might need nightly feedings until I feel strong enough... Only a little bit at a time, but it might be too much for one person to take... Perhaps you could feed me pig's blood? It's weaker than human's, but I can use it." Marc tilted his head, his hand going up to the necklace. Blood stone encircled by a diamond-shaped obsidian. But he didn't speak of it. He didn't try to remember, shouldn't even wear the necklace, but here he was, with the familiar thing in his hand, bringing him comfort when he needed it. He never took it off, never. Not even in the operating room. Pushing past the lump in his throat, Marc shifted a little and sat back. "I can handle it." He said. "Nightly feedings shouldn't be hard for me to handle. Spontaneous nosebleeds and random flushing aside, my body tends to produce a bit... too much blood. It shouldn't be difficult for me." He dug the pad of his thumb into the sharp diamond's edge of the obsidian of his necklace, and sighed. "I guess... Yeah, I've met one of your kind before. Not a half-blood... He called himself... Gene. Said he didn't come from anywhere, but after a while, he gave me this. Kind of a big commitment he said. It would keep me from turning. So far, so good." He shrugged as if the concept were a weak memory. "A-anyway... Do you remember what happened... to lead you to where I found you?" The name was familiar, but he was certain he hadn't met the man before. He exhaled as if he had been holding his breath. He laid back and closed his eyes, wondering if they had gone back to their usual gray shade. "I was at my home when someone came to my door... And he stabbed me..." He opened his eyes again as he remembered the pain and confusion. "I think he was an uncle, but I have no idea why he stabbed me... It just doesn't make any sense." He sat up with a little bit of a struggle, staring down at the odd clothes he was wearing. He realized Marc would have had to clean and dress him. The thought made him blush slightly. "I guess we won't know until I am strong enough to go home and ask." Family affairs. His family was good enough---sure there were some thorns in the brush but none to be taken very seriously by anyone else. And they didn't often show themselves. How, though, a family member could harm one of their own was hard to imagine, but it happened every day. It could be happening as he thought about it, sitting across from a half-blood vampire. Then he sat up, knocked off guard by the way Luca seemed so adamant to go back home. "A... are you kidding me? You're going back to... to what? Why? Why would you go back when someone stabbed you there? It could happen again!" He sat back and slapped a hand over his mouth. Why was he going on about it? It was Luca's decision. Not his. Marc wouldn't be able to stop him if he wanted to go back, but the danger was too present. What if they thought he was already dead? Why not leave it at that? "I know it's none of my business..." He said at last, puffing out a breath. "But... I'm not letting you go on your own. I'll come with you when you go." "I have to go back home... I need to find out why they dumped me and left me for dead..." Luca couldn't understand Marc's shock. He had to go back home. "Besides... We are very close... I... Well, I am a Moretti. You must at least know the name." Admitting he was part of the notorious family known for drug trafficking and general crime-related activities was hard for Luca. "If I don't go back... I can't be banished... They'll kill me for sure this time..." He sighed and shook his head. He didn't expect the mortal to understand. "Family means everything to us. If we didn't have each other, we'd have all died out by now." Marc tried to understand. He just couldn't. It was impossible to get through is head. Eventually he stopped moving and just rubbed his fingers along the blood stone and obsidian around his neck. "Damn it... That's how they show their love? Stabbing you and dumping you in the bushes? If you didn't bleed out first you would've probably drowned in the rainfall. If that's how they show their love I don't think I'd like to see them angry." Then there was that name. Moretti. He knew that name. Of course, who hadn't? A dangerous family, but no one knew they were vampires. Full-blooded vampires, too. Was Luca... a bastard child, or illegitimate? He didn't ask---didn't want to stir the pot more than it already was. "Fine, I won't stop you, but it sounds like the stupidest damn idea I've ever heard. Even if I do want to come with you..." He stood and shook his head, sending his hair wild. "I'll go... uh, yeah, well, you'll probably need blood now." He looked down at his bandaged wrist. The wound had almost closed by now, so no doubt it was because of Luca. If anything, he could ask Luca to lend a hand---or tongue---after he was done. Luca understood, finally, why Marc thought it was a bad idea. Had he seen the people that had dumped him? Were they even from his family or just some stiffs that worked for his father... Or his uncle. Maybe everything that happened had been some ploy to get him away from his father. The man had been told to kill Luca when he was younger, but he had loved his son too much. Now his family was finally getting rid of Luca. "My brother had something to do with it... I'm sure... He... Never approved... I was the heir, and he didn't like that..." Maybe his 'uncle' was an assassin sent to kill Luca." I don't need... I'm not in need of your blood right now..." Luca said, shaking his head. "I... Well... I'd like a drink of something stronger... Have you got wine...?" He didn't know if it was a good idea to be drinking hard liquor after his injury, but he was craving alcohol. He was glad he paused at the door; turning, Marc leaned against the jamb and pocketed his hands. "Family can hate each other. It's not rare, I mean. I have a few bad apples in my family, and they come around... more often than the rest of us would like. But if you want to go back, you can, and I'm going with you whether you want me to or not. Maybe your father will know. Maybe he didn't want it to happen. But... you should be prepared for anything..." If his father were behind it, what would Luca say? Or do? He seemed to love his father very much. Taking a step forward, Marc shrugged. "I have wine, yeah. A few different kinds... I try not to lean toward stronger stuff because I could be on call at the hospital at any given time. D'you want to try to come downstairs? I can find a way to get you out of this room... you're not exactly heavy." He added with a bit of a smile. He'd carried Luca quite a bit in their short acquaintance, after all. Luca thought for a moment, trying to move his legs. It would be a good idea to get out of bed if he had been sleeping for two days, but he didn't have the strength to walk on his own. He hated the idea of being carried about the place. It made him feel useless and lazy. "I should get out of bed, yes... But are you sure you can support me? You don't mind? I'll walk as far as I can on my own..." He pulled the blankets back and moved to the edge of the bed with a huge amount of effort, placing his bare feet on the ground. He tried to get up on his own, but had to ask for Marc's hand so he could stand. His lower abdomen ached where his wound was, but he could feel it had already healed somewhat. "Do you often help vampires?" he asked with a laugh. Marc grasped Luca's hand and pulled gently, helping him straighten up. It was against what he'd tell anyone else to do after being stabbed and stitched up at the home of their doctor, but Luca was a special circumstance. He was probably somewhat healed now, but it didn't mean he wasn't in any less pain. Walking was a good idea, nonetheless. He grasped Luca under the arm and helped him to the door, returning the small laugh. "Well, I don't discriminate." He said. "I've helped a vampire on one other date... But it wasn't quite as life-threatening as your situation." He was glad to see Luca made it to the hall. "Okay, we got some stairs. You think you can handle it?" Luca was interested in his savior's story. Who was this vampire? Were they lovers? He hadn't heard of a vampire falling for a mortal before, outside his own father of course. As he hobbled into the hall, the stitches on his wound tightened and made him gasp for air. The exercise was good for his cramped body, but it still hurt. "Stairs... OK, I can do this." He adjusted himself, so Marc wouldn't be uncomfortable, struggling to the stairs and starting down them slowly. He stumbled only once, but didn't fall, making it down to the bottom floor without any more hassle. "Where is your living room?" he asked, trying to orient himself in his new surroundings. "I'd like to sit by a fireplace... I feel a little cold." Marc went first, down one more stair than Luca, and kept him from having access to all the stairs in case he decided to fall without warning. His breath caught once when Luca seemed about to go tumbling, until they made it to the hallway. There was an archway that led to the living room and a door at the back of the staircase that led to the kitchen, past the dining room. "Here." He said easily, leading the half-vampire into the soft-carpeted living room and to one of the soft armchairs beside the dark fireplace. "I was actually about to light one since it gets a bit cool in these old brownstones this time of year." He grasped Luca's hands to lower him rather than let him fall, then straightened up. "Do you have any preferred type of wine?" He asked, dusting himself free of the extra wrinkles in his shirt. "I probably have it, whatever it is..." He laughed a bit, sheepishly glancing back to where the kitchen was. Since he didn't have a basement he couldn't store his collection downstairs any more than he already had. Luca sighed when placed in the comfortable chair, glancing about the new room. Marc had distinguished tastes, but kept the design simple. He liked it. "I'll have anything red, really. As long as it isn't some store-brand concoction from a box." He wondered if Marc had wine from certain years, but decided against asking. He watched the dark fireplace, shuddering slightly. Furthermore, he must have caught a cold from the rain." I'm sorry I am still so useless... I would help you light the fire and pour the wine if I could..." He smiled weakly, hugging himself in a vain attempt to keep warm. Marc laughed, shaking his head as he stepped around to the fireplace and pulled a starter log from the iron basket beside the fireplace, tossing it into the half-burned logs that would relight. "Don't worry about that." He said with an assured nod as he picked up a box of matches from the mantle and struck one, pausing to breathe in the smell before holding the flame to either end of the starter log. "I wouldn't dare think about something from a box." The idea made him shiver, but the fire was coming together well. It was already growing. "Don't worry about being useless." Marc bent over the chair and squinted at a lint in Luca's jet-black hair, pulling it out. He'd brushed that hair twice a day for the two solid days he'd been out. "I wouldn't ask any of my usual patients to go running laps for me after I sewed them up, and that's the same for you. I'll be right back." He looked like he could use a blanket too, but Marc took one step at a time, going to his pantry to pick a bottle at random just to surprise himself. Luca shuddered, watching the fire slowly eat the wood provided. Soon he could feel the warmth washing over him. He smiled and closed his eyes, relaxing. He thought about what had happened, trying to piece together the events that led up to his stabbing. But it was impossible. He didn't know who the man with the black hair was. He instead focussed on the sounds of Marc in the kitchen. Furthermore, he had the impeccable hearing of a vampire, able to hear the mortal's heartbeat. His thirst rose, but he ignored it like he usually did. When Marc returned with a glass of wine, Luca took it thankfully. "I bet you want to know more about me...? I want to know about you, after all." Marc didn't make a habit of drinking before three in the afternoon. Not even something light like wine or champagne, because it felt odd to him. Like he might have the beginning of a problem that some doctors fell habit to. He was glad to see Luca awake, though, and staying that way when he returned. Settling down on the couch in front of the fireplace, he was to Luca's right. "Well, yeah, I'd like to know more about you. But I wouldn't exactly pry for anything you don't want to give me. Just because you're here until you're feeling better doesn't mean you owe me anything." He should have gotten that blanket, but there was a knitted throw over the couch in case Luca wasn't warm enough. That thing could roast someone if they fell asleep wrapped up in it. Luca inclined his head. "Please... I'd like to think we could be at least friends..." he replied, glancing over to Marc and sipping the wine. It was good, but too modern for his tastes. He set it down on the coffee table and clasped his hands together. "Unless you don't wish to have my friendship, that is. I... Well, I haven't had a friend in a long time. Definitely not a human friend." He smiled, rubbing his slightly runny nose. "As I said, I am half-vampire. I age slower than most humans, but I still age. Most born vampires mature quickly, becoming adults in under a decade. I am 89 years old, even though I look like I am in my twenties." He wondered how Marc would take the news. "My mother was a mortal... She didn't survive my birth. My father... Loved her more than anything else in the world. He was told to kill me but... He kept me alive. I have my mother's looks, he's told me." He closed his eyes and stared into the darkness of his mind. "This is why I can't believe what happened. Father must think I died, or ran away. I have to go back, so he knows... So I know why..." Marc was quiet, sitting forward a bit as if it would help him hear Luca, despite being less than five feet apart. Age wasn't a surprising concept for him---he'd dealt with vampires enough to understand that a full-blooded vampire was immortal and the very rare half-blooded was still mortal, though they had more than a few lifetimes on humans. Marc ran the palm of his hand over the cloth of the couch and nodded slowly. "I see..." He didn't like to admit he understood now, more than ever. His father still loved him, regardless of what some bad apples thought. Or did. "Well, I suppose I owe you that chance to find out why you were stabbed and left for dead." He admitted, albeit somewhat begrudgingly. "And at any case..." He reached up, grasping the blood stone. "I... was involved with a rather young-looking vampire a few years ago. We met at one of my favorite places---in a park near here, not where I found you. He said he was lonely and had just arrived in town, and was trying to get to know the place, but needed a local to help him out. I agreed, and thought that was that, after he learned the layout. He came to me one night in the rain; he'd been shot in the shoulder and couldn't risk the hospital. So I dug the bullet out and bandaged him up. That's how I knew you..." He shook his head, recalling how Gene's eyes went blood-red when he was in the throes of pain. "Well. He gave me this after we got involved. Said it would protect me because I'd become adamant that he use me when he needed blood. And he said it would be... a way to show others how committed to one another we were. And if anything, we knew how much we meant to each other." He looked into the fire, which had flared up rather well now. "I... came back one day and found him gone. He said if he ever vanished to never come looking for him because he didn't want me to be hurt... because he knew someday he might vanish, and couldn't explain to me why. Just... why. So I didn't look for him." "That sounds..." Luca sighed and picked up the glass, admiring the ruby color of the wine. It was still watery, not thick enough to trick himself into thinking it was blood. He felt sad that Marc had suffered a loss of a loved one and wondered if it still hurt. He had never been in love, but he wanted to. "I'm sorry to hear about your... About him. I have heard the name before, but I cannot tell you where or how. Maybe he had to get away, back to Italy or... Where ever he was from." He hoped the vampire hadn't been killed." I... Well... I haven't ever been in love, I've never had the chance to feel loves warmth bloom in my heart. I've heard good things... But also bad. It hurts when the love ends or your partner leaves... But they say it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all." He smiled gently and toasted Marc, sipping his wine quietly. "I'm afraid... I don't want you to come with me. You are a mortal after all. If they... If they find out I have been with you..." He shuddered to think what would happen. The blood stone around Marc's neck protected him from the curse, but it wouldn't stop fully grown vampires ripping into his flesh and killing him. Marc looked down. He'd told himself all this. But he didn't know where Gene came from. He was loath to talk about it, and said he just wanted to leave his bad happenings in the past. Wanted to start over, and he didn't care whether Marc was a human. Didn't want to change him. He felt like that. Mattered. And the whole mantra about having loved and lost was almost lost on Marc. He didn't think about losing that love. He had to hope Gene might have survived whatever forced him to leave that night. Even if he never met the vampire again. "It doesn't matter." Marc finally said. "I'm going with you. You need someone there, support, in case... I-in case you won't like what they tell you. Or what they do. I'm not as fragile as I look---" He snorted, shaking his head. "Damn, I mean... I know vampires are faster and stronger and their senses are so much more... refined... But I don't care. You can't go back alone after what they did." "'They' did nothing. It was that stranger... My 'uncle'... That did it. I... I am certain it was some plot. My father will be on my side." He nodded, knowing that what he said had to be true. Once his father saw that he had survived and heard what had happened. "Is it alright if I watch the news? I don't usually watch TV, but I find the news rather informative." He waited for the TV to be turned on and switched to the right channel. There was the news reporter, talking about some war overseas. Luca had heard about many wars since he was alive. The story ended, and a new one started, bringing him to stare in horror at the screen. "Police have confirmed that Antony Moretti, the head of the notorious gang, was found dead last night. It seems that the man had taken his own life, but no more is known about the matter."" No..." Luca cried, dropping his wine glass. "No... I'm dreaming... Father... He can't... No, it's not true! Marc... Please tell me it isn't true!" He slid from the chair and landed on the ground, pounding the carpet with his fists and crying. His father... They had killed him too. Marc didn't always make use of that television on the wall. There was a gaming system on one side of the fireplace that he used on his off time, especially if he needed to stay awake on a particularly notorious night or date when he was off, but would need to be called in. Or he watched movies, or the news, like they were now. An hour's news on before three, between one and two, usually for those that were just finishing up lunch or needed a quick update before the afternoon, and eventually, evening news started up. Blinking, Marc turned is focus to Luca. That name. Antony. He knew that name and so did others. Dead, Antony Moretti? That couldn't be. Every time Marc had seen the man in public he was a tough, solid, powerful and confident man, there was no way it could have been suicide. He slid off the couch to kneel beside Luca, who seemed to forget his own physical pain in favor of a more acute, lasting pain. Marc was cautious when he placed a hand lightly between the screaming half-blood's shoulders. "Luca... Luca, please. You can't break down... Do you think he'd want this?" He'd comforted so many people, but not a half-blooded vampire breaking down at the coldly-received news that his father---a man that loved him regardless of his origin---had been killed. Killed, no doubt, because what happened to first Luca then Antony couldn't just be coincidence. "Papa... No... Not my papa... It's fake... It's not true... He was... He is invincible... Furthermore, he can't die... Furthermore, he's..." It was hard to talk through the pain, which came from his heart and his wound. That stranger... It had all been a ploy to get him and his father out of the way. Who would get the estate now Luca was presumed dead? His younger brother or maybe even the 'uncle' himself. Did they force his father to put the silver stake through his heart? There was no way he would kill himself. It wasn't possible. Rage overtook his grief. With new-found strength he stood, his fists curling into balls. His eyes glowed red as his bloodthirsty took control of him. He'll kill them. The traitors that would do this to his family, to his father. "I'm going." His voice didn't sound like his own as he slowly moved towards the door, ignoring the pain in his stomach as rage boiled inside of him. "I'll kill those bastards with my bare hands... How dare they..." Marc shook his head. He was so far out of his element now that he didn't know what to say. Or do. He couldn't imagine losing one of his parents and finding out about it through the cool, detached voice of a reporter just doing their job. It was an ugly truth he didn't like, and couldn't imagine dealing with. Not the way Luca was. He gasped when the vampire stood and followed him quickly. "Luca, no!" He stumbled over himself, catching the wall before he actually fell. "Luca, you're too weak!" Before the vampire reached the door, Marc grabbed his shoulder and slung him into the wall. "You're too weak yet! You can't without..." He blinked, shaking his head and making up his mind right on the spot. He could see Luca's fangs---grown, sharp and almost glowing in the gloom of midafternoon sunlight slanting through the window nearby. Furthermore, he decided quickly---because Luca was still surprised at Marc's sudden movement---and grasped a handful of the vampire's hair, forcing him to bite. The fangs were sharp and long and pierced like a knife through butter, flooding Marc with that special and one-of-a-kind warmth and excitement no one could find elsewhere. Luca was shocked at the movement, but once he tasted the warm blood of the mortal, he calmed down. Drinking his fill easily, he made sure to lick the wounds so the tiny bit of vampire DNA in his saliva would make them heal faster. Strength returned to his body, but so did logic. It was not a good idea to just barge into the manor, not in his state. He sighed and looked Marc in the eyes, as if searching for answers. "Why did you do that?" he asked, wiping his mouth and leaning against the wall. "You... Forced me to bite you... I..." Had they made a bond that sometimes happens between vampire and mortal? Would he have to drink from Marc from now on? He didn't know how such things worked." Marc... Doc... I... I'm sorry I... Furthermore, I don't usually let my... Father's blood do the talking. You are right... If I go in this condition... We will have to wait until I am healed... If Papa... If my father is dead, his funeral will be held next week... I have plenty of time to see his... I..." He broke down and started to weep once more. Marc braced himself on the wall the moment every concept of balance decided to leave him. It wasn't dizziness from the sudden donation of blood, but the way his mind whirled when he was bitten, when he was sure anyone was bitten, and fed upon, by a vampire. Sometimes the pull of the sensation was an addiction, beautiful and heavy and powerful. He had loved it once, and still did, but by some stretch he actually kept on his feet---and in his right state of mind. Marc sighed shakily, pressing a hand to his neck once the fangs had withdrawn entirely. "I had to." He muttered. The words were far away, it seemed. As drawn as he was to the concept of revenge---though he knew it wasn't entirely helpful, Marc put his arms around the vampire and stroked his hair gently. "You have plenty of time." Marc reiterated what Luca said. "By the way things are progressing, you'll be healed entirely within the next two days. And maybe sooner with a bit of extra blood." He spoke gently, rocking gently with Luca, not too much, almost as if he were soothing a child. Luca sniffed and nodded, trying to push the thought from his mind. His father... How could anyone dare kill him? There had to be something... Some sort of... He shook his head. It hurt to think about it and he knew he had to be strong, even though he felt weakened by the knife wound that would have killed a mortal. He got back to his feet and kissed Marc lightly on the forehead. "Thank you." He went back to the seat and settled down, not touching the wine as he felt properly sated. He watched the rest of the news, but wasn't really paying attention what was said. How did they kill his father? A vampire can only be killed in certain ways, but to make it look like a suicide without bringing suspicion to themselves... Or maybe the rest of the family were suspicious. He was sure that his father's current wife, his step-mother, wouldn't let this slide. Marc felt himself flush, but willed the sudden color to his face to go away before he followed Luca into the other room again. Where the glass had fallen, there was a very slightly darker tone to the rug, and Marc didn't feel it deserved enough attention. It was a very small spot, after all. He took the glass into the kitchen and washed it, setting it upside down to drain, then returning to the living room and staring at the television. It kept going on about the death of Luca's father and though the vampire didn't seem to be listening, it had to register somewhere what he was hearing. Marc switched it off and grabbed the blanket off the couch back. "You might have a bit of a cold." He said easily, wrapping the blanket around Luca. "The best way to handle that is just time, really. I've got some teas that help the symptoms if you like the stuff." He lowered his gaze and stared at the floor. "I'll be upstairs. Just call if you need me, and I'm not around, alright? I'll be able to hear you." He hadn't checked his email in two days, since Luca had fallen into a small coma.

Family secrets|rating:4.0

The Rightful Heir (Marco&Kat)

Sophia gasped in surprise, stumbling as she was pulled by the leopard. She tried to growl, but it came out as more of a whimper, a pathetic one at that. She let out a small squeal as she was sent stumbling back, bumping into another hybrid. Furthermore, she turned, and flattened her ears, her tail tucking in apologetically. "I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bump into you." The hybrid just snorted, turning around and walking up in line. Sophia breathed a sigh of relief, only to turn around once again and see Leandro eyeing Carmine in a way that she didn't like. She growled, this time the sound coming out more fierce and threatening. "Don't look at my friend like that, he would never even associate himself with the likes of you! He has me and Reggie, so back off!" The words felt strange coming out of her mouth, and her voice trembled as she spoke. She saw the guards starting to get alert, hands on their weapons. Sophia was terrified now, afraid of what might happen. She didn't dare to look at the brothers again, staying focused on the strong leopard she faced. ============Leandro/============Leandro smiled even wider as the girl began yelling. Spitting at her feet, Leandro looked tauntingly at her. "Oh... I will have him, he has been eyeing me since I walked in, not in the suspicious way mind you..." she taunted sadistically. "I will have him tomorrow if it so pleases you..." she added as she put her hand on her waist. Nodding to the big'fella, Leandro winked at him as he began to walk up. Turning back around into the line. She looked on as He went to the other female.============Carmine/Reggie============Carmine could stand it no longer. Walking across the mess hall he aggressively made his way to the line. When he got there and tried to move up toward Sophia. 3 or 4 other hybrids blocked the way. One them complained he was tired of getting butted in line. So Carmine picked the man up by the shoulder with his right hand and brought him close to his face. "Get... out of... my way... or I will crush... your chest, like this." He emphasized it with a snap of his fingers. Throwing the man behind him, he staggered forward. As he moved forward and touched the shoulder of Sophia. He glared at Leandro with anger. "Don't touch her... she was just going... to ask... about... the thing... you told my brother... Reggie..." he gasped. This only caused Leandro to roll her eyes as she turned back around. Sophia jumped back once again as the leopard's spit landed right in front of her, making her tail tuck in even further. She narrowed her eyes and glared at Leandro, clenching her fists. "You'd better leave him alone or else..." The fox glanced to the side to see Carmine approaching, her ears flattening back even more. "O-Or else..." She silenced herself as he placed his hand on her shoulder, struggling to talk with the pain in his throat. Her anger piqued as Leandro just turned away, not even caring. She growled, "That's fine, Carmine. If she doesn't want to talk she doesn't have to. I may be a fox, and you may be a leopard, but I think we can all see who the real--"Her voice stopped in her throat as the Doctor strode into the mess hall, his eyes landing on Sophia first. She gulped and turned away, glancing up at Carmine. "Why don't you go back with Reggie. I have to go to my lessons." ============Carmine/Reggie============Carmine looked over at what Sophia saw. All of his anger welled up inside him as he laid eyes on the thing that made him what he was. The thing that created him, and the thing that destroyed him. As he looked into the eyes of the monster doctor. He felt his fists tighten, and his eyes twitch. "Your right... you better... go... now..." he grunted. Swallowing his anger, Carmine walked past the doctor, "Accidentally" running into his arm and glaring at him, as he did so. Reggie, seeing this, ran up to the doctor. "I am so sorry he did that... he just nearly got into a fight trying to protect Sophia" he said calmly. As he looked into the doctors eyes, he knew he would have to say something more convincing. "Leandro was sort of, well, teasing Sophia... so you see, Carmine felt it was his duty to go and teach a lesson... nothing happened, he managed to restrain himself" Reggie quickly finished. Carmine behind him as he said this. The Doctor's glare was fierce as Carmine decided to bump into him, sending him stumbling back like an oaf. He clenched has teeth and straightened his glasses, staring up at Carmine, about to scold him, when Reggie appeared, trying to make amends. The Doctor smiled, holding his hand up for silence. "Save it, coyote. The lion can speak for himself. Can't you Carmine? Come on, speak. Let me here that voice of yours." His grin was devilish, and sinister, coaxing the big hybrid to talk "I couldn't care less about what happened. It seems this brute is causing trouble, like always. And around Sophia? TSK, TSK. I thought you cared more about your sibling creations." He shrugged, "So go on. Explain yourself. And I don't want to hear a word from you, Reggie. In fact." He snapped his fingers, "Take Reggie to his cell. I don't feel like seeing him today. And get Sophia to her lesson. She doesn't need to help out Carmine either." In an instant, guards were with both the fox and the coyote, leading them away. Sophia looked back, catching eyes with Carmine and mouthing a, "Stay calm." The Doctor looked back to the lion, smirking once again. "Now. Where were we?" ============Reggie/============Reggie struggled for a few moments. He tried biting the guard, he tried kicking the guard. But nothing seemed to work at all. Eventually, he stopped his struggling and just hung there. Hung there as the guards dragged him to his cell. "This is what I get for trying to defend my brother..." He murmured grudgingly to himself. As Reggie got dragged to his cell and thrown in. He fell roughly on his arm. "Of... god-damn it!" he cursed as he felt a bruise forming. Crawling up to his feet with the help of the wall. Reggie cursed Carmine for being so selfishly stupid. "I will wring the neck off of that pile of..." he trailed off, unable to continue about his brother. Sitting down on his bed, or falling on his bed, Reggie rested his head against the wall. "Don't do anything stupid... brother..." he murmured, basically given up on the brute.============Carmine/============Carmine looked on as they were taken away. His brother looking utterly depressed. He changed his line of sight to Sophia, who mouthed to keep calm. Smiling wickedly at her before she got drawn out. Carmine turned toward the doctor. His smile dissipating into that of a defiant gaze. Walking once more past him, Carmine gently sat down and began to eat what was left of Sophia's food. Sophia was pushed roughly into her first room, a table in the middle with a teapot and two cups by it. Two humans sat on either end, waiting expectantly for her to start. She gulped, approaching the table and taking the pot in her hands. Her fingers trembled as she began pouring the tea into the two cups, some spilling out onto the table. Furious with the mistake, one of the humans pressed a button and sent a shock through the pot, causing Sophia to drop it and spill even more. "Keep your hands steady! Make sure nothing spills!" The fox nodded, picking up the pot once again. She wasn't her usual self, worried about what kind of mess Carmine was getting himself into.______________________________________________________The Doctor watched as Carmine sat down, eating as if he hadn't addressed the lion at all. He was enraged now, completely shamed. "Guards!" He bellowed, shaking with fury. They came up to Carmine, grabbing him by the arms, trying to stand him up with much difficulty. They pushed him to the ground, low enough so that The Doctor could take his foot and place it on the side of his head. "See, this is what you are, lion. Dirt beneath my feet. Don't want to talk, huh? I can accommodate you. I'll just have your tongue removed. And I won't put you under anesthetics. You will feel every cut. Every tear and rip." He smiled and pushed his foot down harder. "Put him in the ice box. Then after that, solitary confinement. Also... Sophia will be leaving tomorrow. Give her to the Duke. He seems eager to. Welcome the fox. We'll make special arrangements, set up a hologram in Carmine's cell so he can see just what I have planned for her. It'll be quite entertaining to say the least." The doctor chuckled and took his foot away, kicking the lion in the stomach before walking off and dismissing the other hybrids back to their duties. Carmine only smiled as he issued the threats. Even as he got kicked in the stomach. But the thing that stuck him in the heart, even if just by a bit. Was his remark about selling Sophia to a certain someone. That was what made him flinch. In anger and rage, Carmine stood up fruitfully and picked up two off he guards by the neck before throwing them effortlessly across the mess hall. Giving into his emotions, he allowed the rest I'd the remaining guards take him to where he needs to go, but Carmine could only think of Sophia. The guards crashed down onto the tables, food all over as the trays clattered on the floor. The Doctor turned on his heels, pointing towards the medical wing, making sure the guards took Carmine there to get his tongue ripped from his mouth. They did as they were told, setting Carmine down on a chair and binding him in, medical nurses already getting ready for the operation. They sharpened knives and lasers, getting tweezers to pull out any stray muscle. With a snap of gloves, the nurses pushed a button and the chair layer flat, the extraction ready to begin._____________________________________________________Meanwhile... Sophia stood straight, 4 books balanced on top of her head. The instructor paced back and forth. "Name the largest tech plant in Cathy." Sophia answered, quick as a whistle, "Hartman's peak. Located towards the southern tip." The instructor nodded, taking off a book and adding it to the pile of 10 on the table. "And tell me ho--"The door barged open, a furious Doctor coming through. "Lessons are over. Mister Harrison, you may leave." The man nodded his head towards the Doctor, taking the rest of the books and leaving a startled Sophia standing there." You are being sold tomorrow. To Duke Leopold. We will begin preparations later, but for now you are going to your cell and resting." Sophia blinked, horrified. She needed to be with Carmine, he needed her! There was no way she could just leave him, he meant too much to the fox. She couldn't even imagine a life without the lion. "B-But sir, I was going to ask if Carmine and, and Reggie too, if they could come with me and then--""No!" The Doctor said, panting now. He walked over to Sophia and took her hand, smiling. "No, dear. You won't be living with them. You see, Leopold has other plans for you. But don't worry. Carmine will be able to watch over you. He'll see everything." He started to walk, pulling Sophia along with him. The fox was scared now, not understanding. "Sir... Why will he be watching me? Am I going to clean? Cook? Why does he have to watch me do that?" The Doctor chuckled. "No, no... You won't be doing that. Carmine is going to see you do so much more..." He kept on walking, Sophia in tow, dragging her away to her doom. Carmine smiled at the nurses and surgical tools. With a shove, he kicked the tray of tubes scalpels and scissors into the next wall. Doctors and nurses holding him down as he came close to snapping the braces and restraints.============Leandro============Leandro was being led by her two guards to her cell. As they continued down the hallways and corridors. She saw her guards stiffen as they neared one particular room. A ruckus sounding through it, the guards opened the door to see the big man kicking at a bunch of people, somehow holding them at bay. Cursing herself as she looked upon the handsome mass of muscle she knew she could not let this one slip away. Raising her fists she clubbed the first guard in the back of the neck. Then raising her foot, kicked of the other guards knee and rammed him into the wall with her side. Ripping off her restraints. She moved to the big man and got half way through his restraints before he just simply ripped them off as he jumped to his feet. "Gotta'get me some of that..." she whispered seriously as she looked up at him. As Sophia walked, her ears twitched in annoyance. She tried to dismiss it, not in the mood to figure out what could be making them so agitated, but they just kept on twitching, angling themselves toward a sound. At this point he Doctors was slowly walking, not pulling her anymore. She still had the scarf tucked away under her skirt, reminding her of Carmine... Carmine! The fox's eyes widened in alarm, her tail going stiff. Those sounds, it had to have been that brute of a lion, it had to be! She nudged the Doctor urgently, her eyes pleading. "Sir, don't you hear that?" The Doctor rolled his eyes and sighed, "Yes, I can hear it. The lion is just giving my nurses some trouble is all. Getting your tongue removed is not the most.pleasant thing in the world. But don't worry. Once it's gone, he won't have to strain that poor throat of his. Although, I suppose you don't really need a tongue to scream. Hmm." As the Doctor was lost in his thoughts Sophia broke away and started to run towards the scene, not looking back. "Carmine, Carmine stop it!" With an irritated groan, the Doctor pulled out a syringe, attached to some sir of projecting device. He aimed it at the fox and pulled the trigger, the sharp needle finding a home in her thigh. Sophia took in a huge breath of air, stumbling and leaning against the wall. "Carmine please." She wheezed, crumpling to the floor now. She reached out her hand as her eyes tarted to close, whispering softly "Please...stop..." Her mind was engulfed by darkness._____________________________________________________Hector was a quiet boy, just turned 15 himself. He studied medical practices, and today was one of his hands-on experiences. He was excited, not at the fact that it was tongue removal, but that he would be with the famous black lion himself. The little lynx hybrid had seen the brute in action many times before, and now he was going to be operating on him! It was wonderful! That is, it was... Until Carmine went into a rampage. Followed shortly by the leopard, Leandro, the guards doing nothing to help. Hector stood by and watched, tucking himself away into the corner. He shivered in fear, seeing as his teachers and mentors went down like flies. "U-Umm... Excuse me but... Well I'm Hector and. And those were my... And well I guess it doesn't matter... I'm leaving tomorrow." He continued to ramble, twiddling with he fingers as he trembled in terror. ============Carmine/Leandro============Carmine stood up and gave Leandro a passive stare. After a few moments, he nodded to her and issued a soft grunt. "Find... Her...." he said softly. Hearing a soft voice in the corner, Carmine and Leandro glanced over at the creature. Sighing, Carmine pointed to the hybrid in the corner and thrust his head in its direction. "Are you serious...." she said in a whining tone. "Wait, you know what I tank, how about I do what you asked, you BG lug..." she laughed a little nervously as Carmine glared At her. Leaving the room and Leandro alone with the Lynx. He spirited like a boulder going down hill through the corridor and halls. Running around a corner, he stopped abruptly as the doctor shot a needle into her leg. Running forward, Carmine issued a crazed yell while he grasped the doctors chest and slammed him into the wall. His feet dangling helplessly.------------------------Leandro walked over, placing her hand non threatening on his leg. She caressed it lightly. "Who are you? And What are you doing in here anyway?" sh asked with a small sigh. Soon after, forcing herself to smile. The Doctor's eyes widened as Carmine came charging for him, the ground shaking beneath his feet. Frozen in shock, he had no time to react as Carmine shoved him up on the wall, his rib cage starting to throb. His heart started to beat quickly, sweat forming on his forehead. A nervous smile formed on his face, his feet kicking at the wall under him." C-Carmine, you shouldn't be out yet, what are you doing?" He gulped, looking from left to right, a guard standing there and watching, but not wanting to get near the brute. He had obviously just gotten off of his break, no visible weapons that would prove useful on Carmine visible on his body. The Doctor gulped and tried again, looking into Carmine's eyes. "C-Careful now, lion. You care about Sophia, I can tell. Things could be worse, you know. I-I could give her to a bar downtown, where all the drunks go. You know what kind of men go down there? Men getting away from their wives, looking for a fun time. Growing bored with their spouse's bodies and wishing for something... Younger. More... Pure. You wouldn't want something bad to happen to the poor girl, w-would you?" He gulped and glanced at the guard again, using his eyes to gesture to the fox on the ground. The guard nodded and slowly made his way over, very slowly, staring at Carmine fearfully. It was the same guard that made a face at him this morning, and at this rate, he wouldn't get to Sophia before he soiled himself again.________________________________________________________Hector's face grew red at the touch from the leopard, gulping and twiddling with his fingers. "M-My name's Hector. I-I'm a lynx, a medical one at that. ERM... I'm supposed to be going with a fox to Duke Leopold's place. A combo deal. C-Cool, huh?" Leandro's eyes widened slightly as she gripped his leg. "Come with me..." she murmured as she stood up and made for the door. Her head flashing back and her hair whipping around as she placed her gaze on the Lynx. "Hurry up!" she said with a smile.---------------------Carmine only smiled at his remarks. "Will you... Really... Do such a... Thing, doctor?" Carmine said loudly, for the first time in years. Spinning around, Carmine pushed the guard down flat and slammed the doctor to the other wall again. "Let us go... We will... Never bother you again, doctor" Carmine said, seemingly sure about what he was saying. "You are not going to make me... Kill... All of you... Will you... Doctor?" he asked seriously. Hector blinked and stood up quickly, nodding eagerly towards the leopard. When she smiled, his knees almost buckled beneath him. The poor thing was completely mesmerized by the woman. "Right, coming!" He said and rushed after her, stumbling over his own feet._____________________________________________________________The Doctor narrowed his eyes, losing the smile and showing his fear mixed with anger. "Where would you go, how would you stay hidden?! You'd be back here the next day, someone will catch you." The Doctor knew this beast could kill him. That he would kill him. He winced, the pain too much, "Fine! Go! But I'll find you. I'll find you and the girl! I'm letting you two leave but your brother stays! Do we have a deal?" ============Leandro/Carmine============His smile vanishing, Carmine looked into the eyes of the doctor. "I promise I will... Not free him..." he murmured almost regretfully. "But... I did not say they would... Not" Carmine said as he smiles, gesturing to Leandro and the lynx as they rounded the corner. Laughing, or gurgling, as he found a loophole. "But don't... Worry... I will not... Break our deal.... He won't leave with ME..." Carmine grunted as he shrugged and emphasized the word me while outsmarting the doctor. As Carmine was dealing with the doctor. Leonora rushed over to the female on the ground. Poking her arm a couple of times, she decided it was taking to long. So she smiled and grabbed her hair, tugging it back and slapping the girls face. "Wake up! Carmine needs you!" she yelled lying into her ear as she slapped her once more. Hector stumbled and stood next to Leandro, watching her slap the fox side to side and holding her by the hair like a rag doll. Was she... Enjoying it? The lynx shook his head, stepping forward and picking up the syringe on the floor. Putting it up to his nose and sniffing, he blinked, looking over at the leopard and flicking his tail at her to get her attention. "U-Um, excuse me miss, but. The fox won't be waking up. This will have her out cold until morning. I-I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news." The Doctor narrowed his eyes, gasping for air. "You won't get away with this. You will PAY!" He grunted, struggling to get comfortable. Leandro smiled grimly at Carmine. "Can you carry them both?" she asked gesturing for her and the doctor. Carmine just smiled back, "I'm sure I can do that..." he wheezed painfully. Ripping off a piece of the doctors shirt, Carmine made a make shift gag and hand and feet wraps. Picking him up and sling him over his shoulder. Soon after, Carmine picked up Sophia and they all headed for the doors. Coming to stop at a room full of trapped hybrids. Carmine and Leandro looked sadly at them all. Hector gulped and looked helplessly as the Doctor was being gagged, following the pair with his head down. As they passed the hybrids in the room, the captives stared back with wide eyes, looking over at the Doctor first. One made a gesture to the guards in the room, putting a finger up to their lips. The rest understood, and responded. Two of them got up, starting to shout and roar at each other. Another leaped out of their seat, crashing down on the table. The guards were up immediately, trying to settle the random outburst. As one bear hybrid was being held down to the table by a human, it mouthed, "Run," before being knocked in the head, unconscious. Hector didn't need to be told twice, continuing his path for the door. "We have to get out of here, before more guards come and see us! Come on!" The poor kid was terrified, not really knowing what side he should be aligned with. Carmine and Leandro raced after the Lynx. Carmine, holding both the doctor and Sophia on his shoulders. Grunting his displeasure by how this was going, throttled the doctor against the wall as they moved Round the next corner "accidentally". Continuing to run after the lynx he heard Leandro snicker behind him at the doctors position at this moment. This causing Carmine to grunt in approved as well. The Doctor uttered a muffled cry of pain, his body sinking closer to the ground now as he was hauled on Carmine's shoulders. Sophia remained asleep, only a dead weight. Hector came to an abrupt stop. The entrance was right in front of them, their gate-way to freedom so tantalizingly close. But in the way, was just one guard. He was sitting in a chair by the doors, snoring as he slept. Drool leaked down onto the seal of Martha on his jacket, his fingers twitching sometimes. To the left there was the secretary's desk, the usual woman busy with her work and listening to music. She didn't even look up, just signing papers and putting them into a pile, signing papers again. Hector turned to the Carmine and Leandro and whispered, "We have to go quietly. Neither of them will notice us if we don't draw attention to ourselves. This was when the Doctor started to struggle, trying to create noise with his muffled cries, only now they were pitiful coughs and spittle. Carmine listened to the lynx intently. "Not... Good... At sneaking..." Carmine murmured to them all. When the doctor started thrashing around and being a nuisance, Carmine slammed him against the wall lightly. Which still would hurt, but Carmine did not really care, since he hated the doctor. "Why can't we... Hurt them?" he asked quietly. This forced a smirk from Leandro. Carmine, fueled by this. Carmine looked up questionably to the lynx. "Kill?" he asked the hybrid. The lynx's eyes widened at the thought, his heart skipping a beat as Carmine's mouth even uttered the word, "Kill." He was a passive hybrid, not liking to start fights or get into trouble. He never once in his hybrid life, resented the humans. Furthermore, he was grateful towards them, for providing shelter and food for him. Sure it didn't seem like much, but he could be out on the streets, couldn't he? He'd much rather live comfortably in the safe little cocoon of human favor, but all of those dreams were dashed now. He couldn't let them kill the humans, or at least he could try to dissuade them. Against these two, his word meant almost nothing. With a gulp, the lynx shook his head, whispering more urgently. "If we.kill them, the guards will realize our absence earlier. Since there will be dead bodies to account for. We have to leave with no trace left behind, r-right?" He bit his lip and looked at the doors, just waiting to be opened and allowing the hand at the handle enter or exit. He gulped and looked back to the pair, "You guys are felines like me, sneaking can't be that hard!" It was a usual morning in the camp of Lyon. The prideful base was placed right in the capital city, where the castle and the royal family stayed. The camp was so popular that there were hundreds of visitors every day, buyers looking to get themselves a pet and small children gawking at the wonders the hybrids had to offer. Sophia was especially excited, eager to be bought. She was finally 15, the age that allowed you to be open to the public. Recently she had been taken to observation rooms, humans going in and inspecting her, seeing if they wanted to add Sophia to their collections. Most of them seemed quite wealthy, and she didn't quite understand why. Whenever she asked, the Doctor, her creator, would say in his usual sweet tone while he cupped her chin delicately in his fingers, "You are very special, Sophia. Very special indeed." And she could never find any words to say after that, just nodding slowly and going away quietly when he dismissed her. Today, however, Sophia had no appointments with humans and an open schedule to train in etiquette and manners, appearance and presentation. She wasn't very good with technology, nor was physically strong. The Doctor thought that maybe she would be put to housework, and if not that, just be used as a pet for show. And Sophia didn't mind. She wanted to learn as much as she could about humans and couldn't wait to get out of Lyon and into the hustle and bustle of Martha. Sophia sat up in her bed, stretching and yawning. Her ears flicked and sat up tall on her head, her tail curling up under her and wrapping around her legs. Her cell had no windows, and she only had a blanket to wrap up in. There was a toilet in the corner and a small mirror to look in. She couldn't complain. She slowly stood and stretched out her legs, her tail fluffing up behind her. Furthermore, she went over to the mirror and fixed her hair, using her fingers to comb through it and get all the tangles out. Glancing over the clock, she saw that it was 7:55am. At 8:00am the doors were unlocked, and the hybrids were allowed into the mess hall to eat. She usually sat with Carmine and his brother, since the other inmates didn't seem to like her very much. Maybe it was because she was so happy? Or the Doctor liked her so much? With a sigh she sat back down on the bed and tucked her legs up to her chin." I guess I'll never know why... But the Doctor says it doesn't matter. That they're just jealous. But... Why?" She laid her head back on the wall and sighed again. "Things will change soon. I can feel it." Carmine stood calmly at the door. Waiting for it to open, he always did the same thing. There was no time to work out. He could only sleep in here until the doors opened. So he made it apparent that every 5–10 minutes before the cells opened. He would stand there and count the time to see if there were any changes in the cells opening. He planned on breaking out some day and killing every single one of these fat fanatics when he got the chance. Turning his head slightly as a guard walked up to his cell. Carmine stared at him, waiting for him to do something. As the guard looked left to right, then made a face at him. Carmine slammed his head into the door. Apparently causing the rookie guard to piss himself. Grunting in pleasure at his deed. The guard turned and sprinted away. So Carmine, void of anything to do, waited for the doors to open. Sophia's ears flicked as the bells rang, the sound music to her ears. The day had finally started! Eagerly, the fox jumped out of bed and looked over at the clock. 8:00am. Just like normal. She bent down to listen to the door's lock click open, her tail wagging slightly at the sound. It started to slide open, and she stepped out as did the other canine hybrids, most of them just glancing at her before walking off with their lupine friends. She tucked her ears back and joined the crowd, eager to see Carmine come out from his wing, the Feline Wing. Sophia was eventually in the mess hall, letting the other canines pass her. When she spotted Carmine she put on a big smile and waved. "Carmine! Want me to get your food for you? I can get some for your brother too!" She liked doing favors for them, hoping that by doing them, they would remain her friends. In her lessons, she learned to please humans and they would like you. So it would be the same for making friends, wouldn't it? At least, that was her logic. And it didn't work very well since no one really liked her that much. But she remained oblivious, trying her best to be happy and cheerful, hoping to put some smiles on some faces. Carmine walked out of his room and the others with him. Stepping over the puddle on the ground, he walked in single file with the others to the mess hall. He could easily look over everyone else due to the fact they were all short, or that he was tall. He usually tended to go with them being short when he referred to it. Despite him being the tallest there, his brother was only about one inch shorter and was the only person so far to have beat him in a fight. Carmine walked over to Sophia and gave her a hug as he entered the mess hall. Lifting her 4 feet off the ground as he did so. He placed her back down to her feet. Eventually he just gave a grunt and a nod of his head. "Obtaining" some seats, Carmine cleared a table for him, his brother Reggie and friend Sophie. Sitting down clumsily, barley fitting on the chair. He waved to Reggie as he came into the hall. Reggie was part of the Canines, a Coyote to be exact. He was usually at the back of the line so it was not surprising he came in later. Shouting at his brother to come over, Carmine crossed his hands for Sophie to return. Sophia chuckled and kicked her legs slightly as Carmine embraced her and lifted her up, drawing some looks from other hybrids going to get their food. She stumbled as she was set back down, brushing herself off and nodding. "Coming right up!" She went over to the food line, going to the back and rocking back on her heels and forward on her toes, waiting patiently. She finally was able to get her food, taking an extra tray for Carmine and saving one for his brother, seeing that Reggie had one already. Furthermore, she nodded her thanks and smiled at the drone, taking both trays and holding them on the tips of her fingers like she was taught to. Furthermore, she placed one down in front of Carmine and one in front of the empty seat at the table. Tucking in her tail as she sat, Sophia picked up her fork and started to eat the mush, savoring the bland taste in her mouth. She looked at both Carmine and Reggie, speaking after she smiled. "Good morning you too! It seems like a nice day out, don't you think?" She looked over to the barred windows close to the ceiling, the sunlight filtering through them and illuminating the technology that kept the hybrids under control, attached to the guards menacingly. She shuddered and turned her head back to the brothers, one a feline and the other a canine. What are the chances, she thought. Carmine at his try in a couple bites. After a few moments of grunting and clearing his throat. He asked his brother how he was, which sounded like a whisper as like it did when he always talked. His brother just looked over at him and smiled. "Well, I am doing great, especially since I am going to be purchased soon..." his brother said to them. When. He Carmine heard him say he was going to be purchased, Carmine just slouched over and hummed a growl. "It's alright Carmine..." his brother consoled him. Looking at Sophie, Reggie gave her a hint to do something about Carmine, when things this high of caliber happens to Carmine he tends to rampage through the compound and kill a few guards. He already had two strikes, it would be a bad idea if he got three. Carmine shoved his brothers hand off. Grunting his displeasure, Carmine grasped the sides of his own head in frustration and panic. "I can't... lose you too..." he grunted in anger and exasperation. Standing up threateningly, Carmine had begun to lose his temper. His emotions started to go crazy. Sophia frowned, watching the two brothers with concern. This often happened, and usually she was the one that had to calm Carmine down. He wasn't really listening to Reggie as of late, especially since he was going to be sold to a human any time now. She nodded at Reggie and stood up slowly. Sophia delicately tiptoed around the table, standing next to Carmine and looking up at him, seeing his anger rise. If this kept up, he would have the guards on him instantly. She glanced around and saw that they were already getting alert, hands on their weapons, some advancing warily. Sophia turned to Carmine and wrapped her arms around him gently, her tail coiling around him and her ears pinned back, "Carmine... You know your brother would stay if he could. And you should be happy for him. He'll always be with you, right here." She looked up at him and reached up her hand, placing it over his heart. She smiled and spoke again, "So smile for me. Please?" Carmine looked around threateningly, feeling something on his chest, he looked down and at Sophia. When she told him Reggie would be in his chest he looked questionably at her. But then quickly figured out what she meant, his heart. Looking once more up, he caught sight of a certain guard. Smiling in pleasure, he nodded to him then drew his hand across his over-sized neck. The guard that wet himself earlier by his cell slung his gun on his shoulder and left the mess hall sputtering his anger at the large man. Looking toward Sophia again, he looked down as if he was guilty and sat back in his chair. "Sorry..." he grunted to Reggie in his overly deep and quiet voice. Reggie smiled at Carmine and clasped his large shoulder again. "It's not big'm'little bro" he said to him. Flashing his eyes in gratitude to Sophia for calming him. "Thanks..." he whispered, leaning over the table. Sitting back in his chair he looked friendly at Carmine and Sophia. "So, have you asked her yet Carmine-?" he stopped suddenly as Carmine flashed him a look. "I guess not..." he said awkwardly and surprised as Carmine lowered his head. Hiding a smile, Reggie scratched his eyebrow. Sophia watched the guard run, flattening her ears and scrunching up her nose in confusion. Just as quickly as she looked, Carmine was back in his seat, muttering an apology. She smiled, nodding to Reggie and taking her own seat, placing her fluffy tail in her lap and picking up her fork again. She watched the two brothers chat and... Well, grunt in Carmine's case. It was nice, seeing them get along so well. It was also quite amusing to see Carmine get so flustered at Reggie's question. Furthermore, it was about her, so she just had to know. She smiled and stopped eating, almost chuckling to herself, "Well come on big guy! Tell me. If you don't, I'll just get Reggie to do it!" Her voice was taunting and cheerful, very eager to know now. Carmine didn't seem interested in much, and this was a first. Carmine gave Reggie such a dirty look for spoiling it. Reggie new it would be best to look away with his smile. When Reggie was not looking he leaned close to Sophia's ear so he could tell her. "I... have a gift..." he murmured, as quiet as usual. Lifting her hand up. He placed a scrunched up red scarf with gold outline and embroidery. "Found, on floor... outside... cell... a couple of days past..." he said with effort. Curling her hands around it delicately, which was difficult for the big man. He blushed slightly. "Hide... somewhere safe... gave to you... case you get sold... remembering gift of me..." he whispered. Reggie looked on in pleasure. Patting his brothers arm, Reggie whispered to him that he did good. "And, I just have to say I am proud of you Carmine, that was the biggest sentence you have uttered since the accident brother" he said happily as Carmine raised his head proudly. Sophia blushed and looked down at her hand, the fabric of the scarf soft and delicate on her fingers. She loved the color, and the fine detail, it was so... Mesmerizing. She smiled as Carmine wrapped her hands around it, his own covering hers in warmth. She smiled up at him, her ears pinning back." Carmine this is so... so, sweet. I love it, it's beautiful." She looked at him, smiling earnestly. Carmine really did have a gentle heart, she could see it somewhere in there. Sure he was breaking the rules but. It was all for a good cause. "I won't forget you, I promise. Soon we're all going to have human homes, but I swear to you. I'll never forget this." She glanced over at Reggie, watching him congratulate his brother. Her smile faded when he mentioned the... Incident. She looked down, just the thought making her sad. She never brought it up, knowing how sensitive the topic was. Carmines eyes brightened as she said she loved it. But they dulled as she became sad. Pushing the second tray of food in front of her, Carmine nodded his head and grunted to her. "Become strong, useful so you don't... get thrown out and... sold back..." he said between breaths. Reggie nodded in agreement. "It would be best if you started to build up some muscle and such, if you don't, I only see a few ways you could be of service to a human" he stopped to take a bite of his food before he continued. "To be quite frank... none of them are pleasant..." he murmured sadly. "Anyway, let us just rejoice that you have a chance to get out of this hellhole and into a slightly better one, and who knows, maybe we can all get purchased together as a bundle" he laughed. "If that does happen or even if it does not, I beg my wish that you get a pleasant master or masters" Reggie murmured as he wiped his mouth clean. Carmine looked over at Sophia in a kind manner. "I hope we do... too... would be nice..." he grunted, holding his throat in memory of what his brother told him transpired. Grunting at Sophia to eat again, he whispered to Reggie. Reggie nodded his head at what his brother whisper to him. "Don't worry, we won't bring it up again... I promise." looking from his brother to Sophia, Reggie made a prayer as he moved beside Sophia and began whispering to her. "I hope Carmine gets parred up with one of us, there might be a good chance of it because no one else wants him due to the danger levels of him, we are the only ones who can keep him under control... you see'..." he breathed to her. Looking at Carmine as the big man glanced around angrily at the guards. "It's either that, or he will be given to a cruel and sick man or women, maybe they will just execute him, and that would not be fair..." he murmured. Sophia looked up again at Reggie and Carmine, tucking the scarf away under her tail. She nodded at the both of them, her face still not cheery like usual. "That would be nice if we were bought together. Or at least you two could maybe be sold as a pair. I, myself, don't have any appointments today. Just some training to sharpen my skills." Sophia looked down at the tray that Carmine had pushed to her, frowning and looking at him again. "I can't take your food from you, it's okay, I've had enough. I'll... I'll try to get stronger, it's just that the Doctor has never recommended it to me. He says that I'll most likely just be a pet anyway. To show off." She pushed the tray to the middle of the table, just as Reggie came to sit beside her. Sophia nodded slowly as she listened, starting to understand better. She looked to the lion once again, giving a smile. "Carmine, do you have any appointments today?" She was still puzzled over what Reggie meant by humans being. Unpleasant. She was taught that humans were their superiors, their providers and care takers. How could they be unpleasant? But then again, she hasn't been placed in a home before... These brothers did. I guess they had bad luck, she thought. Reggie moved his head closer to Sophia. "Not just the humans, I have talked to someone who got thrown back in here, she told me some of the ways we are used for service, anyway, I will not say them, but be prepared for anything..." he murmured seriously. Reggie sat back in his seat when Sophia asked Carmine if he had an appointment. Carmine shook his head fiercely. "But I... Has someone... who is contemplating... on purchasing me....... I think I... scared them.... away...." he gasped strangely. Looking at Sophia weirdly, Carmine made a fist and rubbed it on his forehead. "Why.... did you... ask this?" he said as he gestured toward her. Hugging his throat with his hand for a few more moments. Carmine leaned forward a little. Glancing in Reggie's direction for a second, a question brewing in his head. He saw Reggie shrug his shoulders and lean back in his chair. Placing his hands on the table, Carmine listened to Sophia for her answer. Other ways? What were those other ways, she thought. She gave a puzzled look to Reggie, still not understanding. The Doctor had never told her of. Other ways. He hadn't prepared her. And he promised that she would be ready when the time came, so... What did he mean? Was the Doctor lying to her? Sophia shook her head and looked back to Carmine, watching the way he acted with concern. "Well, I was just thinking that maybe I could come with you to one of your appointments. I can ask the Doctor if I can be sold with you, and then maybe the humans won't be as scared. You know, since we'll be together, and you won't be so... Nervous." She decided to use that word, not wanting to anger him by speaking of his anger issues. It had to work, the Doctor would listen to her, right? She turned to Reggie again, smiling "It might take a lot, but maybe you can come too. I don't want you two being separated. And.... This girl." Sophia was eager to know what Reggie meant. It was now bothering her greatly. "What's her name? Maybe I could... Speak with her?" She knew Reggie wouldn't just come out and confess, so going to the source was her best and only option. Carmine blinked, bewildered by the chance of him being parred up with them both. "That... would be great... we should go... to your ones too..." he murmured quietly. When Sophia looked at his brother Reggie. Carmine quickly took some of the stuff from the extra tray and placed it on hers. Gently eating some of what was left in the extra tray so she would think nothing of it. He blinked smartly at Reggie as he glanced around her to him, Reggie than issued a low thumbs up behind her so she could not see. "Eat..." he half growled and half coughed loudly, despite the fact that it hurt his throat painfully much so. Looking back to Sophia, he tried to salvage what she was saying before he got distracted. Putting his finger up to his lips. Reggie let his hand drop back down. Moving to her ear. "Her name is Leandro, (Le-Ann-Draw)" he stretched out the letters into a pronunciation. "I highly doubt she will say anything to you, we are friends, that's why she told me, but I will let you give it a shot." He smiled. "If you can find her at the right time, she only comes in here for 5 minutes to get food then is sent back to her cell... remember the gold haired female leopard combo... yeah, that was her, took out three tiger males that wanted her attention..." he laughed at the memory. Sophia nodded and smiled at Carmine, "Of course. My humans are very nice, and they like me a lot! At least that's that the Doctor says. He would definitely let us meet and greet with them together." Sophia then looked back down at her tray, tilting her head to the side and staring at it for a moment. "Well that's strange..." She said out loud, before shrugging and eating the food without complaints. It turned out that she actually was hungry, even though she wouldn't say it. The food went down her mouth quickly, almost as if her stomach was a black hole. Sophia blinked as Reggie spoke, turning her head to him and smiling. "Oh I'm sure she's not that bad. I just want to talk to her is all. Ask a few questions. It seems she knows more than I do, and that just won't do!" She chuckled and went back to her food again, her tail wagging. That's when the leopard hybrid came in. Her hair was long and golden, her stride very graceful. Two guards flanked her, guns at the ready. Sophia stared at her, making eye contact for a brief second. Her tail stopped, and it stuck straight out, her ears pointed forward. "So that's her..." Sophia stood up, eagerly, almost knocking her food off of the table "I'm going to go talk to her!" And with that, the fox strode away heading straight for the food line where the leopard now stood, waiting to get her food. ============Carmine/Reggie============Reggie stood up and walked over to Carmine. Sitting down beside his brother, Reggie placed his right hand on his brothers over sized shoulder. "So... who are you betting on?" he asked seriously, which granted Reggie a harsh look and snarl from Carmine. Reggie just smiled awkwardly and released his hand slowly, placing them over one another on the table. "Just for curiosity, who do you think would seriously win-" he stopped and looked straight forward at the wall as Carmines head shifted quickly over to him with a disbelieving glare and a surprised look on his face. Grunting once, Carmine looked on as Sophie greeted her.============Leandro/============Leandro eyed the guards that were next to her wearily. "Come on, boys, go wait by the end of the line like good watch dogies... okay?" This owned her a slap in the back of the head. "Fine, rough is good, just don't go soft..." she teased as she made her way away from the guards and up the line slightly. Leandro looked to her right instinctively. When she saw it was just another hybrid she ignored it and walked up the line a little more as it was short one consumer. Sophia watched as Leandro completely dismissed the guards' strike at her, going on as if nothing happened. She shook her head and went up to the woman, only to be ignored. Her ears pinned back, and she scrunched up her nose, shakes by the act. She tried again, forcing on a smile and stepping in front of the leopard in line. "Hi! I-I'm Sophia, what's your name?" Her smile grew wider, hoping to get something positive out of this cat. She was very curious as to why Leandro was put under so much guard. She looked back at Carmine and Reggie, giving a small wink before turning back to the leopard, hoping they were wishing her luck. ============Leandro/============Leandro looked in the direction the hybrid had looked. Smiling wickedly as she saw Reggie shake his head despairingly and cover his face. Grabbing the other hybrids' hair. Leandro pulled her close to her face. "I am too violent..." she hissed. Tugging back the girls' hair, then letting go. She made note of the big man standing up sharply beside Reggie. "HHH, I must get me some of that..." she murmured loud enough for the girl to hear. Leandro, even more tauntingly, looked the big guy up and down for effect.============Carmine/Reggie============Carmine stood up as he saw the girl throw Sophia back by her hair. "I don't care... if she is a girl... I will crush... her.... skull.... in an instant if.... she hurts Sophia..." Carmine sputtered, getting out of breath from speaking. Reggie looked around quickly as everything transpired. "I warned her, now let her deal with her problems Carmine" Reggie said quickly. Trying to calm his angry brother down. "If you harm her than you will be in deep trouble, think of me... think of Sophia... who will protect her if they get rid of you? Hmm, who will go with her to her new home?" Reggie soothed.

The Rightful Heir (Marco&Kat)|rating:3.0

Karma Wears Black.. [Blissy & November Bleeds]

Being the new kid in Laguna Falls Academy was always sure to be quite the thrilling experience, but being the transfer student with the rather peculiar sense of expression, was bound to get Keisha Chrome into far more trouble than one might suspect. That was probably because Keisha was usually pretty good at avoiding trouble, or at least back in her hometown of New York. Oregon had already proven to be quite different from that of the city she had spent most of her young life in. Here in Oregon, people were quite different. As much as they were quite apparent to be distinctive, about those certain qualities. You couldn't walk five feet down the hall of the LFA without expecting some loud mouth to be chattering away with some gossip retaining to another individual. That was probably because here, well, specifically in the LFA anyway, people were very poor at minding their own business, and that much had made Keisha quite the target, among some of the more predominate individuals, with far too many self insecurities issues on their hands. To say that just about anyone in this academy would turn a blind eye on her, was like wishing for the impossible, that one knew simply could not be achieved. The real difference with Keisha's feelings towards her peers was that she really didn't care what other people thought of her, and her rather unusual means of dark self-expression. What could be said about her? She loved fashion, particularly fashion statements, that came from more underground, or non-mainstream norms. In some ways Keisha had always been a misfit, even without mentioning the detail of her clothing, or choice of dusk she wore as make up. To be completely honest, she just didn't get along with most other people, in the same way common folk might manage to reach decent arrangement with others, and contrary to popular belief, it had nothing to do with 'something' being wrong with her.Oh, yeah. She was a freak alright. Devil worshiper too. Killed kittens on her spare time. Or so they'd say. Finding comfortable placement in the bigger student body of other college kinds, who were lucky enough to have their rich moms and dads, pay their intuition fee's for college, had proven to be quite difficult. Unlike them, Keisha only had some outside help. She worked a ton in high school to get to where she was today, often substituting fun things like going out, or her more artistic hobbies, to pave a future that wouldn't have her stuck working in fast food forever. Not that she worked in fast food, but the very idea of that near made her cringe. People could be so unhealthy. Enter the part where it's known that Keisha is a vegan. Well, she wasn't totally vegan, but she also didn't like over eating meat. Contrary to popular belief, Keisha was probably more eco-friendly than the majority of those that found some sick sense of humor in depicting her as some psychopath, clawed in black and ready to blow at any moment. Despite what most people thought and didn't know about Keisha, was the fact that she was quite serene, even under the charade of how she choose to express herself to others. She wasn't violent, nor was she twisted, or mentality ill. She didn't excuse her persona as a vampire, or the like of some other bizarre affiliation to a very fictional type of phenomenal species, that could only be described as a fat stereotype, slapped on a misunderstood individual. Furthermore, she respected other peoples space, only ever envying them from afar, if she had any reason to. In some ways she was quite timid, though only because she wasn't the best at talking to people who looked at her funny. Regardless of how others looked at her, she always treated people with a sense of equivalent respect. Keisha was never the sort to treat anyone unfairly, who might actually keep their mouth shut about their opinion on her, and all the abnormally declared qualities that some of the more 'pretty people' at her school, had been quick to slap down on her forehead.(Weirdo. Vampire. Psycho. Recalling all the wonderful titles that Keisha had already had the luxury of being branded with, was already becoming somewhat of a morning routine. For she knew once she slipped out of those sheets, dressed herself up and dwindled away into the qualities of her usual school day, that something rather incommodious was bound to occur, by the ignorance of others. Or more specifically, by the likeness of some potent jock idiot, or wannabe-queen bee of the school. At least in her dorm she was safe. Hidden away from the judgments of the outside world. Oh jeez, she was already playing isolation card. Saying that Keisha was shy was a bit of an overstatement. In some ways her timid sense of admiration for her own curiosity in certain others, namely people who were different, or a bit unusual, had seemed to be rubbing off on her just a little bit too much. That might be because having moved here from New York, had her sort of starting from square one. Having to make new friends on whim was difficult, especially when there seemed to be a plenty more close minded folks, loitering around these halls in the many. In reality Keisha knew why she was likely going to have one of the worst times ever, trying to make friends here at the LFA. Not any longer then two nights ago, she had become the subject of the LFA's first annual student disaster. It sounded horrible and in some ways it was, but for the most part the whole experience of being humiliated in front of the entire new freshmen student body, had been quite quick, as much as it had been chilly refreshing. Was it ironic to think that it wasn't even a freshman who found herself being hazed, by the ever inevitable traditional qualities, of the rather infamous Sigma FI fraternity. Lovely bunch they were. Who would have guessed that mouthing off to a certain Susie Prescott, would get Keisha all the worst kind of heat in the world. After all, Susie was the one started it. As passive-aggressive as Keisha preferred to be, deeming herself loyal to the concept of keeping her hands off other girls, that really just aggravated her to know end, wasn't quite so prestige. In some ways Keisha knew that she bore some rather feisty qualities, particularly with other women. Those traits of her character came from a much darker element, that she honestly had no real shame in embracing. Whenever a girl pushed her, she pushed back, mostly because she didn't like to be seen as the lesser of two women fighting for power. This rule of course, was somewhat lenient, depending on the reasons as to why, although bullying and good old-fashioned verbal assault, was not one of the excuses she might allow. Nope. Susie Prescott had gone too far the moment she tried to claw her face off, when she made her look bad in front of her boyfriend. And people called her the psycho? Funny. Of course Susie Prescott hadn't been the main act of the night. Instead, Keisha had the absolutely unfortunate luxury of meeting a certain Dominick Walker that same night and was really brought to full revelation of what sort of savagery really went on at this so called, grand academy. The misunderstanding wasn't even about him, but you know, frat boys liked attention and humiliating weird girls dressed in all black, was apparently all the rage in this school. Surprisingly, Keisha was always trying to play the role of an optimist, but when you had a liter of alcoholic waterfall, drench down your face and all your clothes, it was safe to say that straying from optimism seemed fair. It certainly resolved the feud between her and miss-wannabe Sorority queen anyway, just not in the way Keisha was too fond of accepting. Dominick had proved to go the extra mile with really showing his favor of everyone's newest favorite little exchange student weirdo, at the LFA. Not only had Dominick completely disgraced her on her second day at the school, but he also took the liberty of flaunting his barbarism for the last day and a half, with somehow only getting a coarse word from the management. Corruption no doubt. But Keisha hardly felt surprised. The condition of this academy was quite moderate. While it had reputation and seemed to be the best place around the states for one to pursue art careers, with worthwhile and notary academic reference, the school itself seemed to be maintained on a charity program that bore ownership to old and evidential spoiled students, with families who wanted the best for their kid and seemingly only their kid. The place itself seemed to embody corruption to a science, but despite that people still showed up. Realistically Keisha was in no place to make choice judgments about the school. She had wanted to come this academy even before she graduated high school some time ago. The reputation was all she needed, even if the actual experience of being a student at the LFA, seemed like a plot concept for all the absolute worst kinds of drama scenarios. Mind your business and just move on right? Wishful thinking anyway. That process was a little harder when just about everyone in the school was either pointing fingers or whispering behind you back, because of some dimwit who liked to show off, decided to pour a keg on your head. UGH! The more Keisha recalled the situation that had led to her first year at the LFA, start of with anything but subtle results, the more flustered in made her. She almost felt outside her usual character, given the amount of damage this humiliation had done to her. Prolonging her window of newness and highlighting her rather different qualities, was hardly the sort of way she wanted to start the year off. Even in defeat Keisha still thrived on, mostly because she was a fighter. As feisty as she could be with girls, winning control over boys had felt so much better. Keisha knew that this desire to see Dominick in her place, was motivated by something much more complicated than simplistic revenge. Dethroning the king of arrogance seemed like a fair exchange for the burden's he had deemed himself so vulgar to comply on to her ever so fragile reputation. Intentions to pull Dominick apart piece by piece (not literally of course) and put him back together, had been quite the consistency on her mind lately. It would just make her feel better if she knew that every time she saw him, laughing away, or being a raging prick to her, that she'd know more about him, then he could ever suspect. In time, she'd use that quality to her advantage. Make him a puppet, put him on social strings and reformulate the rather brutish playboy persona that had been the very soul of her newest worst enemy, and how she planned to do it was probably the best part. People like Dominick Walker were popular of course. One might even say too popular for their own good. With a bit of research, well, a lot, Keisha used her rather distinctive talents in finding corks and splinters in other peoples ever so profound faces, quite easy. A little bit of watching Dominick from afar told her that, contrary to being a meat head with far too much ego circumventing up in that tiny head of his, he seemed to follow a schedule and one that was unlike any of the programs enlisted at the LFA. Oh no, no, no. Dominick Walker was doing other things that were eating up his time and quite the great deal of it, whenever he thought no one else was paying attention. A flaw in the greater system no doubt. The sniped string among the full set. All she needed to do was bind her time and drop a few hints, before Dominick Walker came crawling to her, tearing his own pretty hair out of his head. It was for that reason alone that Keisha got up earlier than she usually did. She was never much of a morning person, often living off coffee, whenever she barely felt capable of keeping her eyes open. Regardless, that dark beautiful persona of her own, had never faltered. Each and every day she did her make-up, often subjecting her own distaste for early mornings, by the idea of self worthy substitution. It got her up and ready for the day before everyone else. Even if today she had woken up just an hour earlier than normal, entirely in courtesy of a certain Jock's life, she intended to ruin. Quietude was always on Keisha's side. Slipping from her dorm and into the sleeping halls of the early morning had been easy enough. Honestly she stuck out like a soar thumb, even when wearing the schools uniform. Those ever so defining dark qualities of make-up, seeming to make her a black sheep among so many brown ones. It was a good thing that no one was around to see her, because what she was about to do, could have had some rather terribly back-lashing effects, if just the wrong person saw her doing it. It wasn't the students that bothered her so much as it was administration. If there was one group of people that Keisha had on her side it was the teachers, even if they too, often seemed much too concerned with her choice of self imagine. She didn't care. To her, they were of neutral ground, but a neutral ground she'd prefer to keep within her more moderate favor. Living on the third floor, or C floor, within the middle of the female dorms, had sufficed to keep Keisha right in between the whole section of dormitories that made up this wing of the school. She had to travel a couple stairs down, though not far and venture just a tick into the opposing male dorm wing, to be where she wanted to be. That of course, was just beyond the door of her ever so favorite-jock. Every dorm at the LFA had a whiteboard outside. The purpose was for positive reinforcement, or a place to slip messages to other students, though most of the boards in the boys section of the dormitories, seemed to be canvas's for much more immature depictions of the ever so delicate primitive male minds. It was a shame really, since Keisha always loved art. Hell, it was the reason she was even at this godforsaken school in the first place. It just seemed like a waste of potential. Or was it? Stopping just outside Dominick's dorm had Keisha slowly slipping a hand into the side of her surplus bag. Most people who saw her walking around with that particular bag, knew it contained all kinds of pastels, colors and trinkets that helped her do the one thing she always seemed to be doing, drawing. Only today she didn't plan on drawing on her usual canvas. Instead, she had found a much more worthwhile one to act as a means of representing her art and just how symbolic it could truly be. The silent slip of her fingers into the bag would pull out a single black sharpie. Popping the lid quietly had Keisha gently itching the marker to the white board, that housed evidence of some much more formerly wiped away, depiction of poorly drawn boobs and an arrow and name that was supposed to refer them, to that of some female student that Keisha had hardly cared for. Right now the only thing Keisha cared about was leaving Dominick a little note, courtesy of her own presence. The gentle itching of the marker to the board pried her attention forward, as if what she were doing, felt like the most satisfactory thing she had done in a while. As she'd leave her little note on the board, Keisha could not help but curl her tongue against the gentle brim of her black painted lips, as she went exploiting a certain little secret, that she knew would cause his perfect year to fall apart within the first days. Eventually the scribbling of the marker came to a close with the conclusion of Keisha's message. Once she finished her note would read :”Hey hot stuff. I saw you online. I like your stream, it would be unfortunate if the wrong people saw it. Shame. I think what you do is absolutely, unfathomable. Signed, Raccoon Eyes.” Stepping away from the board had Keisha sealing the marker away and slipping it back into her back, before her light gentle steps took her from the scene, of causing her own little crime. (was barely the word to describe the financial situation Dominick Walker was in. Money had never found itself this difficult to come by in his lifetime. That father figure of his having given him everything he needed, day in, day out. The fortune not necessarily massive but had been more than affordable when he needed something. While months ago he would have loved to say his father was financially stable, the divorce with his own step-mother had caused it all to come crashing down. Entirely unexpected and out of the blue. The divorce itself costing his father but also the amount that his step-mother was taking was indescribable. The foundation in which he stood on was falling beneath him. Unfortunately he had never been that great with money himself, normally spending everything his father gave him on food or something for school, even rent that came out of his father's pocket for the dorm he stayed in. But suddenly being told that he would have to get a job on top of the schooling he was already doing? It didn't anger him, but it certainly caused an uproar deep down. The situation remained difficult because he was already a big part of the football team at school which took up a drastic amount of his time. How could he work? At this point his weekends would be taken up by a part-time job, and he just couldn't do that with the homework he forced himself to do. Everything had come crashing down, as if the world itself was some sort of monster he couldn't handle. Money wasn't his strong suit. Maybe that was why everything had taken such a drastic turn. There was a time when Dominick would have gone to seek out potential jobs before the Academy. Maybe a summer job at the gym as a personal trainer or maybe someone who just worked there for the sake of it since he was there for a good hour or two on the daily. It was the divorce situation that lead him into questioning what it was that he could do. Having one full month to figure it all out wasn't enough time. He had to find some way to make money without burying himself further into the depths of the earth. He was already riding on a scholarship for football. School wasn't what he was good at, but his average had to maintain stamina as well. The young adult was more than wishing and wanting to move forward with his life but there were so many blockades in the road that each time he swerved he couldn't grasp the wheel hard enough. What could he do? It was then he sought out suggestions online. Drug dealer? No. He could barely handle weed enough as it was, finding difficulty in taking in foreign substances into his body. Even steroids for that matter, he just could not fathom why people would do that, especially considering he worked very hard on his own body for himself already. Stealing wasn't an option, obviously. But it had come to his attention that camera girls were a thing. Well, he knew about them from all the porn sites he dropped into, which only made him question-was it possible that there were sites out there, for cam guys, as well? That question filled his mind with several more questions which only lead to research, until he found exactly what he was looking for. It was a questionable situation. Putting his face out there for others to see may have been dangerous, but at the same time, he couldn't really make money if he masked himself, right? There were only a handful of folk interested in that particular category. Dominick knew his position was questionable at best, that he didn't have enough room for movement, practically stuck between a rock and a hard place his life had quite physically become some tragic sappy story. Having driven himself right into the concept he started watching how other people did it, assuming how they made money and watching tutorials on the fact. Being a young man in a dorm was enough, but he had to hide all evidence of people knowing who he was and where he was located, which was easy enough as long as he didn't wear his school uniform while on camera. That last thing he needed was to be ratted out, lose his position in school, find himself suspended or even be stripped of his quarterback placement or potentially have that scholarship taken away. All of these things, he couldn't quite afford to lose. Dominick was at ends meet and money was his only chance at surviving any of this. Drastic times came with drastic measures, unfortunately. Overwhelming began to feel like an understatement the first week of his 'part-time job'. Dominick wasn't necessarily proud of himself for finding a way into the business of sexual deviancy and digging beneath the surface of lonely housewives trying to make themselves happy by watching a young man with a well put together both reveal himself on camera. The things he was asked to do were out of his league, unexpected at least. There were a couple of options he had, and really he just tested out his boundaries, cycled through things here and there. Mostly, however, teasing had become something that a lot of viewers seemed to find themselves interested in. But it wasn't just an audience of women fulfilling that emptiness within them but rather a fiendish crowd of folk who wanted to be entertained. But there were a few rules that he had heavily accounted for on purpose. Working through his laptop he never played music but rather kept himself quiet. The microphone intended for picking up even the slightest shift in sound. Viewers being able to hear every subtle movement or break in his voice from moaning and groaning. But not once would Dominick speak. Huffs of air was the closest he got, perhaps the smallest whisper of his deep tone, but there was only so much he could give away. That identity of his practically stripped from his every being. By doing this he was putting so much at risk, and yet he continued to do what he needed to for the money. That was all this was about in the end, money. Not the attention, not the thrill of being caught because that made him sicker than he needed to feel due to his own actions. Though from a retrospect he'd been placed within an area that most women were far too afraid to linger toward. This must have been what it felt like to be a prostitute. Because in one way or another, that was exactly what he was doing, selling himself to people online. No one knew what he was doing. There was such a lack of discussion between him and his friends about their jobs. Lucky for him, none of his buddies really went on the websites he worked from. People were shady, and he had no doubt his buddies would either be extremely excited and want him to show them the ropes or if they found out- or abandon him and make fun of him. Those fears of being turned into the victim rather than being ahead and being with his friends to poke fun at others wasn't within his comfort zone. Dominick knew he was a cruel individual that did not have a big heart or thought about the world at large. He wasn't creative, and he certainly didn't understand a lot of out-of-the-ordinary type ordeals. The news was really his only source of understanding of the world, or whatever his buddies had taken into account. If they said something was interesting, he found it interesting. But when it came down to it, he knew he was just a sheep in the heard of many others, not even beginning to deny he didn't stand out. Because he didn't. Dominick blended in with the rest of them because he did not want to stick out like a sore thumb. He wanted to be his own person, but happy and this was the only way he knew how. By being one with the crowd he got to live his life freely and have acceptance on his side. The popular crowds of people he had grown up in desperate need and want to be within. Looking up to the higher sororities and fraternities on campus, wishing to be a part of them but also wanting to free himself from those chains, he kept himself at a decent distance, finding friendship in others of higher authorities than he was, but nothing much more than that. Dominick didn't wish to partake in the small happenings on campus, even if the crowd was rather large. He may have wanted to be accepted – but he already was. That was enough for him. He didn't need to be a fraternity member to feel even more powerful than he already did. At least he felt like he was on the right track as long as he wouldn't get caught and even if he did, maybe those around him were willing to cooperate. Waking up early had been a routine he forced upon himself due to his own new schedule. There were odd times within the day that he could tend to his online 'job' that he so happened to 'enjoy'. Though within the confinements of his own opinions, Dominick couldn't help but feel his online occupation to be rather degrading. Putting himself beneath the power of others who threw money at him in one way or another just to see him do something sexual. While he understood it due to the amount of pornography he watched, it didn't compare to how he felt about it on a day-to-day basis having done it. But money was necessary, and he needed to pull in more viewers. Even still, he didn't know when he would have time today to do such a thing and money was already tight enough. It was laughing outside his dorm room that had him questioning what the hell was going on outside his door. Dressing himself in the school uniform with the first two buttons undone on his white shirt, allowing that tie to rest on either side of his shoulders and hang down, his pants and shoes just normal and no accessories he really felt necessary to put on except a silver necklace beneath the uniform. Checking out his hair in his dorm room mirror, Dominick grabbed his bag and hoisted it over his shoulder, not bothering to bring his blazer anywhere with him. There was a lack of interest in wearing such attire. But as he left his room, a couple of guys looked at him and then started to walk away. Cocking a brow in obvious concern he turned to lock his door, only to take notice immediately of the whiteboard. Those dark eyes focused on the message being written. His heart jumping immediately in his chest as he tried to act cool and calm. “What are you talking about?” Acting as though it didn't bother him in the least knowing that the word would likely get out that he was streaming somewhere, or maybe some idiot would take it as some sort of piss joke. Taking his tie and wiping the board free of the words, he stopped at the very end. Raccoon eyes? Questionable, something that didn't necessarily hit him until he erased the thing entirely, leaving the remainder of the background blue filtered against his whiteboard. Shit. Wait a second. Those eyes had taken down the dorm room hall, feet pacing themselves toward the exit. Memories flooding back from the other night where he had poured a keg on the one and only person in the part who seemed entirely out of place. Baffled at the concept of why someone would go so far to stalk him. That was what it was, wasn't it? Stalking? Scoffing publicly at the concept as he escaped the dorms he really didn't have a clue as to where to find this girl. Knowing all too well he was looking for that odd goth looking girl that showed up at the party as though she was trying to make some sort of statement. Dominick never understood fashion other than his own clothing that he wore on casual Friday's or the outfits on the weekend, even after school hours. Nothing else seemed necessary. All this odd goth, scene or even underground fashion statements seemed so out of the ordinary and weird. Classifying each person under those as disturbed in one way or another. Dominick just could not grasp the concept of why someone would want to misplace themselves so drastically. It seemed a little too surreal for his liking. In the movies it was cool, but when it came to real life? That was just plain weird. It took him a good twenty minutes to make his way around the school. From classroom to classroom, even the office and the field, bleachers and finally, the library. At this point he was about to give up. But the adrenaline rushing through him was unlike anything he could fathom. Unable to understand why he was so worked up, all because this girl had taken advantage of him in more ways than one. She had seen his stream, really? Was she going to tell on him? At this point he just wanted to get her to keep her mouth shut. Whatever she wanted, he didn't know, but he knew if he wanted to feel even the least bit comfortable again with his streaming that already made him uncomfortable enough as it was with his face out in public, no matter how cocky he got on it. Confidence was one thing, but uncertainty was another. Being caught wasn't on his agenda and yet it still fucking happened. Ashamed, insulted and somewhat offended that this had even happened to him in the first place, Dominick's entire social position depended on this one girl. The library while vast had plenty of seats, but it was 'raccoon eyes' he immediately took to. Angry dark eyes had taken a hold of her, and immediately he paced in her direction. Frustrated beyond belief, Dominick gathered himself close to the table, placing his hand down against it heavily as he stared at the woman with obvious rage. What was he supposed to say to her? Being hushed already by the librarian for making such a loud wound with his hand he tried not to get too worked up.“You think you're funny?” Asking quietly but in a stern tone, Dominick's persona did not give in, finding himself flustered however at the concept of a girl at this school having seen him online, above all things, was embarrassing.“What the fuck do you want from me?” Playing games with people had been somewhat of Keisha's forte, even though she hardly spent much of her time enthralling in such acts. Unlike people like Dominick Walker, people like Keisha Chrome had priorities to attend to. Most of which entitled her to some class or placed academic purpose, and dealt next to entirely with the subject of her own fragile reputation. There was no real way to really dress up the fact that Keisha was quite far from anyone's favorite person. Well, that was except one particular roommate, who liked her just a tick too much. 'Caitlyn Mays' was always quite the handful. Keisha could have written up a three-page list of the things that made her roommate compared to that of owning a pet, but it was the sort of pet that Keisha had deemed anything but desirable ownership too. Now that wasn't to say she loathed Caitlyn in the way some of the pretty people at the LFA did. Caitlyn Mays was quite far from some sorority doll, or personality bled brainier. She had her positive qualities and she had her strengths. Even if Caitlyn often preferred to dwell more so on her weaknesses then her strengths. The oddest thing about her was that she wasn't even close to shy either. On the contrary, Caitlyn liked to stick her nose in business that was certainly not her own. Some thought she did it for attention. Others because there was something unusual with her and whatever process the weird glitter girl followed, through almost entirely mechanical automation. Caitlyn lacked personality, but Keisha had never felt that was a fault in who she was. In fact, thinking there was anything wrong with the persona of her rather trendy roommate, was far from the sort of belief Keisha would abide by. What kind of person would she be if she thought the worst of others for being strange, or unusual? It was only the usual and the strange that had ever made Keisha feel quite conspicuous among the masses. Caitlyn was just like her, another girl with a weird sense of fitting in and some deeper underlying complication to bare. The difference was that Keisha wasn't addicted to drugs. That was always the particular quality about her roommate that made her feel the worst. Caitlyn was a wreck. Someone who found escape in the idea of forcing herself to strange places, that weren't meant to acquaint themselves with the very subject of familiarity. Keisha had tried to approach Caitlyn before, shift her dedication to the idea of drowning her insecurities, or shame by the puff of unsound smoke, but Caitlyn was always quick to change the subject. Some people thought what her roommate did was an act, but Keisha could tell from her brief experiences with her alone, that the girl actually bore multiple personalities. Judging books by their covers alone just wouldn't be fair. There was something more to her roommate then people knew. In some ways that curiosity had inspired Keisha to try looking at people around her differently. While she most certainly valued unique qualities where ever she may find them in others, there were just some people who intrigued her more so, then some of the other obvious misfits. Dominick Walker was always quite the pompous jerk. Although, despite loathing him for his evident lack of respect for certain differences in others, Keisha couldn't help but wonder what made Dominick tick in the way that he did. Everyone had story, even the majority of the biggest jerks around the LFA. Curiosity, alongside the very bothersome emotion of disliking, came to Keisha in quite the natural sense, just about every single time she considered the reason for some Dominicks more crude shows of 'admiration'. Normally she wouldn't care so much, if he had left his feelings for her simplistic at the call of some cheap name, or even much less educated insult. The thing that almost intrigued Keisha about Dominick was that unlike most of the other pretty people at the LA, he had secrets and secrets were something she didn't quite understand. Of course, she knew what a secret was, but baring any of her own wasn't quite so normal to her. Keisha had always been fairly open-minded, through expression, thought and word, when she found the right people to speak too. Being ashamed of something she did on her spare time, or in Dominick's case, adjustable time, wasn't quite something Keisha could relate too. Everything she did was done without the subject of paranoia or worry, given being ashamed of who she was or what she did, just wasn't an element of her character. There was no doubting that Dominick would make the worst of what she did. Storm in here like the neanderthal that he liked to perform as and do something quite 'Jewish' on a whim, in the act of his own anxious defense. Keisha basically expected that from him. Though to what degree of intrusion he may bring with him, was of an entirely different matter. For certain he'd give her a piece of his mind. Always so opinionated Dominick Walker was. Especially when he was judging people for things he was just entirely ignorant of. It almost made Keisha feel bad for him. Although the key word here was 'almost'. No, no, no. After what he did to her, he damn well deserved the karma. Or at the very least, the threat of being made into the joke that he had the mastery of turning her into. An hour passed since Keisha had paid her least favorite jock a little visit. Or more accurately, the white board outside his room. Finding herself hunkered down in the library was a normal tradition of hers, given that it was always the most quiet place to go in the morning. Although that old saying was as they said. Nothing too good lasts forever. No more than half hour into Keisha private time alone, sitting secluded at one of the many library desks (near the furthest back wall), had she begun to hear the ever so uneager steps of students leaving there living holes to pay respect, or more accurately, response, to the new day. Within the half an hour that announced the first set of early students creeping from their rooms, had always ensued light company among the library. It was mostly the academic slaves that came quietly sneaking in her that half hour before everyone else would be up. Keisha was always on somewhat messy terms with them as well, but it wasn't like one of LFA's brainiacs had tried to pour a keg on her head. No. The difference between Keisha and the ever so compassionate academic students at the LA, was that they just didn't know how to handle her, but at least they didn't go out of their way to shed light of their opinion on her. To be completely honest Keisha always preferred light company among clutter, or total seclusion. It just gave her something to pay mind too, when everything else around her seemed to grown mundane of its emptiness. Creative was hardly scratching the surface with this young woman and her rather perceptive outlook on seeing value, or beauty in some of the strangest things. It made perfect sense that she came to the library rarely to ever study, but to observe and to sketch, the curious things she'd find lingering about the archive of young student minds alike her own, always motivating her to return. From the table where she sat she'd make not even a peep. Quiet as the grave, as one hooligan with a slewed humor for puns might say. Always gently etching those writing utensils to the page in front of her. Drawing always made Keisha feel sustained by the serene qualities of her own focus and direction, to thinking of something other than herself, or even someone else. Art had become an escape to her that just felt like a natural bonding of her correlation with seeing, depicting and understanding the things she did and finding a sense of artistic beauty in watching them formulate by the light stroke of lines, or light address of color. It was quite a phenomenal philosophy to consider that everyone was very much the same, only just proportioned slightly different from one another, or shaded one hue darker or lighter, then that of their contrasting neighbor. People had become the most of interesting subjects for art. Despite baring quite the artistic qualities and focus, about that in which she loved to do as a somewhat of a familiar hobby, Keisha was known to sometimes lose track of time when she let her mind drift away into the etches, lines and palettes of defining color that generated her work. Sometimes she drew for hours, forgetting entirely about other things she had to do, mostly because they just weren't as important to her. Although she'd never use this habit as an excuse. Still, losing track of time was of common conception to the girl who sometimes wished that other people could just be defined by the qualities that they showed on the outside, rather than whatever grizzly underlying demons they may carry beneath. Attentive eyes went astray from the pad of paper Keisha had been using as her canvas to draw one of the more lanky, nervous members of the LFA's extracurricular study group, at the sound of having a shift in steps disrupt her from her focus. She wouldn't need eyes to know who it was more likely to be. Storming ever forward and thundering his primitive anger in the forward approach, of his own ashamed emotion. Dominick's half willed stomping took him to the edge of the table where he immediately began to declare his fowl taste of Keisha's supposed humor. At first, she didn't look at him at all, even when the concentration of her mind had faltered from the focus of her rough artwork. She acted like she didn't hear him as her eyes remained glued to the page, to further comply her acted sense of distraction. Her black lips remained unmoved, expression settled on absolute placid ill-consideration, as her eyes would only slowly peak around the page in gentle address. Keisha let the anger he had brought with him settle amidst the silence of the mood, as the tip of her pencil continued to gently etch further lines of foundation on to the subject of her work, that she knew she could no longer peak at from a far, without breaking her sense of played perfect ignorance from Dominick's presence. His second comment had her mind spinning with thoughts of partially humoring intrigue. For there were plenty things she might want from him, but for what reason should she even give them in the first place? Wasn't this the same guy that liked to push her around? Now he was demanding exchange? Had she defeated him already? Biting her lip in slow manner had Keisha trying to suppress the urge to almost laugh shortly under her breath, but she did not allow the temptation to allow her to do so. Instead, she'd count several seconds in between the speech of Dominick's former speech, in the silent of her head, and then slowly peak her vivid blue eyes to peer back at him, through near freezing stare. No expression found itself place on to her lips or brow, as the etching of the pencil seemed to cease entirely. Staring back at him in near frozen domineering and uncaring address, only motivated the light curling of the corners of lips. Thus came the gentle smile and words she would seemingly use as answer to respond to Dominick's sense of antagonistic approach. “Good morning.” Keisha's voice was gentle and quiet, with the speaking of her greeting. Following that simplistic greet she'd only shift her attention from Dominick entirely and go back to what she had been doing, as her wrist gently began to force the pencil to continue in the gentle etching sounds, of pencil to page. How would he take her not fuelling his anger? How would he deal with her most peculiar response? Would he bury his anger, or persist to let him lead him forward? Oh dear, she had so many questions. But first she'd need reactions.

Karma Wears Black.. [Blissy & November Bleeds]|rating:4.0

[1x1] ^-^

Waiting for Jams_fallen_angel... Charlene Waters was just your average college student. She worked part-time in a bar and shared a room in the dorms with a friend. She studied hard and pulled off good grades. Furthermore, she had fun at her job and made enough money to live off of. Furthermore, she was the kind of girl who knew her place in life and was happy with it. The last thing she expected was to find herself in a mythical world facing dangers of which she couldn't even begin to imagine. But that's exactly what happened. Stepping out of work one Wednesday night Charlene had called a cheerful goodnight and pulled her jacket tightly around her, shielding the exposed skin her top didn't cover. The dip in temperature was certainly felt every time she left the hot bar. Shaking her head she headed down the back alley. Somewhere behind her a soft whooshing sound caught her attention. Turning she expected to see one of the girls from work doing...something. There was nothing. Literally nothing. A gray color swirled around her like a heavy mist. The surrounding sound faded and only a soft whooshing like the wind could be heard. Charlene turned around again, finding more of the same pressing in on her. She took a few steps forward and paused. What was going on? She had to have had her drink spiked. This wasn't normal. Releasing her coat she covered her ears and closed her eyes. It was a few moments before she re-opened them and when she did, she wished she hadn't. The swirly gray had vanished, but so had the dark ally. She now found herself stood in the center of a medievalesque town and a cart heading straight for her. The man yelled, and she dodged out of the way. The stream of insults falling on dead ears as she stared at the... dream? This couldn't be real? Her fingers brushed her long, pink streaked, blonde hair from her eyes, as though that would make her vision snap back into reality. Surprise, surprise, it didn't work. Virus Set stood in the center of the city, browsing through wooden booths of trinkets the local merchants put out for sale. As he moved from booth to booth, people cleared to make a path for him, recognizing the religious attire; that of the high priest. Sweeping deep purple robes with crisp white trim fell loosely over his tall and slender frame. He held a very plain looking staff of silver, featuring a large blue stone at the end, encompassed in two floating rings of silver. He Diana™t bother with jewelry, or shoes for that matter. A small pouch hung from a loop of fabric holding his money and a few other small personal items.rekindle, this one?a He asked a small creature that was following him. Closer to human, the young boy had a long brown tail and matching ears, a slightly pointed face, a large green eyes. These creatures were incredibly rare, the remains of an experiment in magic from centuries before, but they were useful. Born from an attempt at recreating werewolves and other were creatures, they held the ability to take the form of a human or an animal, to a certain extent. This one in particular, Kindle, could take the form he had currently, or that of a brown and rather mangy looking house cat. The item Virus was questioning was a rather large fish, freshly caught. Such a catch would make dinner for both of them, leaving enough to be dried and kept for winter. Kindle looked overjoyed at the prospect of a fish dinner, but he Diana™t have a chance to voice his excitement. Virus brushed his long black bangs out of his face to get a better look as people began to react. A young woman had just appeared in the middle of the street. Some people blinked and kept walking, sure they were mistaken, some gawked in disbelief, and some even screamed in terror. Aside from having appeared out of nowhere, the girl was wearing strange clothes, and her features were slightly different. Obviously not from the area. The newcomer nearly ran smack into Virus as she dodged the cart, earning several glares from people who were protective of the religious icon. Sirus’ mind raced as he tried to assess what was happening. He knew very well the realms of magic, and the limits. Moving things from planets to other planets was more than the average person could accomplish, and moving things from entire time warps, dimensions, or anything else of that great size¦ Well there was only one person that could accomplish that, and she heyday™t been seen or heard from in years. The timekeeper, a famed woman now disregarded as a legend, was said to have been the first being in their world, and one with extensive magic. Using such magic she created the world, and then in her exhaustion, abandon it to its inhabitants, interfering only when they were in severe danger of falling apart. The highest of magic users were all certain of her existence, including Virus, so of course this was the first thing his mind would jump to. Whether or not he believed it, he wanna™t sure, but there were few other explanations he could come up with. Following that thought was the knowledge that the queen would follow the same thought line. It was a concern shear™d confided in him many times, and with it her lists of various reactions and courses of action. He rested an arm lightly around her shoulders, the only actual contact being the light brush of his fingers against her shoulder, guiding her back away from the street. €œMiss? Are you quite alright?a He asked, his soft voice sounding strained in his attempt to stay calm and be somewhat rational. Kindle was shaking in the khaki shorts he wore, his tail bristled and his ears back as he cowered behind Virus, weary of the woman and confused at his friend™s action towards her. €œSirus, what are you thinking? She could be dangerous for all we know, she reeks of magic, and that™s not mammal™s sock darning spells either.”“Hush Kindle.a Virus said simply, waiting for an answer from the girl. €œAre you lost by chance? I could walk you home if you have an address.a((XD I think I got a little carried away. I've been planning to write a novel with this plot, so I've got all kinds of little ideas and plot twists that I may or may not remember to fill you in on. n.n; I'll be sure to explain things the best I can as I go along.)) ((*over-joyed at the post length* Mine will get longer as I get the feel for the role-play.)) Her light blue gaze turned slowly to the man at her side and she nodded slowly. "Yeah, I'm fine." She said at last, her attention now moving towards Kindle and then back at Sirius "I'm staying at the college." A pause was inevitable as she realized rather suddenly that she was strikingly obvious, being the only one in a cropped top and short skirt. Whilst she once more pulled her coat closely around her, the fact that she was probably nowhere near Piedmont dawned on her. She'd never seen this place before and doubted very much that he could walk her home even if he wanted to. "But Piedmont college is nowhere near here?" She questioned aloud. "So where am I? And how'd I end up here?" The bemused look turned to one of utter confusion. She bit her bottom lip and looked around her, taking in the town she was now in. She couldn't accept this wasn't a dream, not yet, but she was starting to get scared. Furthermore, she wanted to go home...to wake up...to just not be here anymore. Virus stared blankly at her, “Coll…EGE?a He repeated the unfamiliar word. €œYou’re in the Royal City. More specifically, you were on the main road of the royal city about to be hit by a cart.a He said as he glanced down the street. Men in uniforms were pushing their way through the crowd of people, not too far off.amiss, we had better get moving. Now. Those men arena™t pleasant, and they certainly arena™t wasting their time on the residents here. Please come with me, IAS™ll explain everything the best I can once wear™re out of danger.a Virus had taken on an urgent tone, his soft gray eyes looking desperate. The men that were coming their way were commonly referred to as Cards. Basically they were the royally enforced law system of their country. The higher ups were given positions such as you would find in a deck. King and Queen had been changed to King™s man and Queen™s man, and were the highest on the list. The personal servants to the royal family, currently to the queen alone. The lower the card value got, the closer to street men they became. Jokers had been omitted, used now as a term for felons or enemies of the royal family, and aces were high ups that served the royal family more asunder the tableau™ then anything, their means and methods frowned upon publicly, but excused. The group held half a dozen, and they were all street men. Enforcers of mild laws, closer to playground bullies then anything. They carried crude weapons, and followed their orders loosely. But with the queen insistence they were wasting no time in closing in on what the queen feared could be a threat. The level of magic used caught her attention instantly, and she clearly had acted immediately. As the men drew nearer Virus tapped the base of the long staff on the ground, causing a faintly glowing blue dust to fall on them. €œIt’s a basic camouflage; it should last long enough for us to get out of the city.a Kindle had changed form rapidly, his body emitting sickening crunches and pops as it changed. He leapt up onto Virus™ shoulder, now more worried about the Cards than the strange girl. €œIf they get a hold of you that™ll bring you directly to the queen and if shear™s in a good mood she might settle with imprisoning you for a few years before killing you. She doesn™t like anything out of the ordinary, and you certainly qualify, so please, Leta™s get moving.Agathe Cards had slowed in confusion, no longer able to tell the three apart from the rest of the crowd. Being low in rank, they knew little more about stronger magic or how to use it then the people around them.((n.n; mine tend to die down to a paragraph or two as the role-play goes on, but I'll try and keep them up for as long as I can. Besides, I'm getting 20g per post. XD It's kind of nice. ) The Royal City? The first thought that came to mind was "England?" Unfortunately this meant that she neglected to realize the enormity of the situation. Oh, she'd heard him, but she was a little too confused to understand it properly. However, Kindles change startled her back to her senses. She nodded "Lead the way then..." She realized that she hadn't caught the men name, but decided that could wait until men weren't chasing them. That and Kindles transformation...and how tapping a stick on the floor camouflaged them...and everything else for that matter. Whilst guns were the preferred method for thugs these days, she knew that any weapon could inflict serious injury, and she was not about to let them anywhere near her if there was the slightest chance that this man was right, and they were after her. And she'd seen nothing to hint that he was lying to her. She just prayed that he wasn't. That would be embarrassing((20 gold is nice, I'm earning around 13. Plus remember you also get 0.1 for every post I make :P)) Virus took her hand and pulled her through the crowds of people, speeding up as the crowd thinned. The smooth dirt roads became more rocky, and the buildings more sparse. Virus slowed as they lost sight of the Cards, and were now almost alone on the winding path. One or two people passed by every now and again, but as they turned on to a twisting path leading up hill and into the trees, they were alone.alpha, I haven™t had to make an escape like that in years. They saw you with me though, so no doubt that™ll look for you here eventually.a Sirs said as they entered the trees. The gem on his staff glowed in the dim lighting, and head™d slowed to a leisurely walk. Kindle leapt down from his shoulder, human again before landing in a crouch.“Sirus, we Diana™t get any of the things we went for.a He pouted, weaving between their legs in that irritating catlike way as they walked.rekindle, you™re a cat. Thereat™s a Rice less than a mile into the woods, you can catch your own fish. There are more important things happening than sales on the latest catch.a Virus turned to his guest, giving her hand a small shake of introduction before releasing it. €œForgive me, IAS™ve failed to introduce myself. Ital™s become habit not to, most people already know my title. IAS™m Virus Set, the high priest of this country. This bag of complaints is Kindle, and Amiga I believe his race is called. And you are?”Sirus’ face seemed prone to slightly exaggerated expression. His soft skin stretched into a friendly smile with ease, and his eyes shone brightly with whatever emotion overtook him, which at the moment was curiosity. Long bangs fell just past his chin, dark hair framing his pale features while the rest of the waist-length hair was pulled back into a tight ponytail, following the image of a religious leader that had been set in their country.((Really? Neat. n.n I splurged and bought a donation item. XD I'm going to hoard it until it's valuable, then sell it and maybe buy myself a decent outfit. I'm getting a bit tired of parading around in my boxers.)) Charlene was immensely glad that she had chosen not to wear her stilettos that day and had opted for wedges instead. She'd have fallen on her face running otherwise, as it was, she kept pretty good pace. She was still glad when they stopped. As comfy as her shoes were, they were never meant for running in. Her light blue eyes flickered to the glowing gem with mild curiosity and a mildly amused and confused smile as she listened to Kindles complaints. "I'm Charlie." She paused then added "Charlene Waters. Bar staff in The Devils Keys and student in Piedmont College." She shook her head, the way he had repeated college suggested her dream guide here wouldn't understand a word of that. And yes, she was sticking to the dream explanation. It made much more sense than any other explanation she could think of. It also left her feeling a lot less scared. The more she believed this was a dream, the less it seemed to threaten her.((Yeah, every topic you make, you receive 0.1gold for every reply some makes in it. It's slow progress, but it's good to make gold. Shhh it's a little know fact. I don't know why it's little known, it's in the gold guide, and it's obvious when you have whole numbered gold, or your gold count goes up whilst you're not on :P What kind of outfit are you after? And I think the sword will take a while to mature in value.)) ((No doubt, but I'm patient. I went and downloaded Firefox. E_e I'm after mainly the panda slippers, festive fish, panda pajama pants, and the Hume ears/tail. I'll likely be getting the last item in a trade for art, and I'll have enough for the slippers with in a few days. I have a ton of other items I plan to quest, like the EGA crown and the headphones, along with a bunch of the other CI items, but it will be a while no doubt.)) At the trees cleared a broken down building became visible. It was a three-story homemade of stone, and the top floor as missing half the roof, making a nice deck atop the house. Wildflowers grew freely around the building, making the broken down home look cheerful, despite the wear on it. Despite how battered it was, there was no visible weak point or visible entrance to the building. "I don't know what a college is, and I've never heard of the Devil's Keys." Virus said apologetically, "So where are you from Charlie? Obviously not from around here. I mean, what's your world called? Your planet? I know I must sound insane asking such a question, but please humor it." Kindle vanished through the very solid wall, and Virus followed. It occurred to him after the fact that Charlie might not understand the false door. He poked his head out, giving the illusion of his head floating in the stone. "Through here, it's a picky entrance. It only allows the homeowner and welcome guests in. Just walk through, it feels like walking through a beaded doorway." He informed before vanishing back into the house. The inside had the same cheerful feel. The door lead into a living area painted a deep red with a warm orange carpet. A large red couch and a fireplace made up one side of the room, and a large bay window and a desk made up the other. The window of course, hadn't been visible for the outside either. The walls were covered in shelves of books, and the desk was nearly buried in books and papers. The room was clean but cluttered; littered with trinkets and toys of all kinds. A pile of blankets and pillows made the whole area around the couch an oft place to relax, and a lemon yellow hallway lead on into the rest of the house. The shock was clear on her face as the duo vanished through a wall. The floating head was not very reassuring, but after a moments pause, she shrugged, why not? Taking a deep breath she followed them inside, although with her hands first, just in case her eyes weren't lying to her and there really was a wall there. She was very glad that there wasn't. Entering the house, the first thing she did of course was not to take in her new surroundings but look behind her at the entrance she had stepped through. "What a weird way to build a door." She said more to herself than to him. "Oh, I'm from the planet Earth." She added remembering his question. Her gaze returned to him again and once more she brushed her hair from her eyes. She really should tie it back, but she always seemed to get more tips with it loose. After a while she just stopped taking the time to secure it, so she was constantly brushing blonde and baby pink corkscrew curls from her eyes. "And surprisingly I wouldn't mark that question as the weirdest thing of the day." ((Totally pulling names out of the air here. XD))"That explains a bit, this isn't earth, it's Kerala. So, does everyone have colors in their hair like that, or is it just you?" he asked, resisting the temptation to pull one of the curls and watch it bounce back into place. "I like my door, it's a very convenient door." Virus said as if it ere important to convince her of this. "Ah, I'm sorry about the mess, I'm not used to having company. I'm not much of a people person I guess..." Virus began rifling through books until he found a few that he wanted. He set them aside on the desk and pulled out several small gold rings. "You aren't used to magic, are you? You look surprised at everything magical, so I'm just assuming..." he said as he set one of the rings over the first book. "Earth." He said clearly. The ring melted onto the page and began scanning through the pages, looking for the term it had been given."Let's see, if you don't use magic to make thing work, what do you use?" He asked, "Just man power? Or... something else? It's probably something we wouldn't have, so look for what's missing if you don't know what I'm asking for." Kindle had sprawled out on the couch, "Virus, cook!" He demanded." Oh, right, I'm sorry! I'm not very hospitable am I? Would you like to join us for dinner? I'll probably fix some chicken, since we didn't end up buying the fish." Virus offered, "Actually, it would probably be best if you stayed here until I can find out why you're here and how to get you home. I'm setting these off to find information here, and if this doesn't work I'll have to pull a few more tricks."" Sirus, the Cards will likely drop by tonight if not tomorrow..." Kindle warned." They'll come tonight, and I'll handle them when they do. The Queen and I have a special arrangement, they know better than to test their limits with me. I wonder though, how many promises will the queen break in this case? She doesn't like breaking promises, it's one of her very few honorable traits, but she won't risk anything that could put her out of power either..." He said as he spun one of the rings on his finger. "Charlie, Charlene." He told the ring before setting it off as he'd done with the one before.EDIT: It didn't give me gold for this post. -; How come? ((I don't know... I've never heard of that happening before. It should give you 20 gold and the niff you edit and add more it sometimes says "you have event gold for that post" but doesn't put any gold amount in.)) She laughed "Streaks? They could if they wanted to but not very many people do. I'm the only one in class and at work." She smiled. "And I'm the only one I know who chose pink." She shrugged. She watched him use the rings with interest "I once saw a guy escape from a cage in Las Vegas, but that's about the limit of my magic. And it's all tricks and sleight of hand anyway. Everyone knows that." She smiled "Technology is what we use. I'm guessing by the fact that a horse and not a car almost ran me down that that's what's missing from your world." Charlie paused, that felt like such a strange thing to say. Still amused at the concept she nodded "Thanks, if you don't mind." She sighed "I don't really have anywhere else to go until I get home." She eventually decided that it would probably be best to button the lower half of her jacket and keep her stomach covered up as she asked the next question. "So what did I do? Is wearing a short top punishable by death over here or something? What's your queen got to risk from me?" she finished fastening her buttons and looked at him once more. Questioning, curious and still completely sure that she was dreaming. "Well... there's a small chance that you're here strictly out of coincidence. A spell gone wrong or something opening up a portal, but that's highly unlikely. A spell of that difficulty would only work for the most powerful of magic users, and anyone with that much power wouldn't make such a mistake. It couldn't have opened on its own, magic comes from our own life force, not the planet, so someone has to want it to happen." Virus looked to the second to last ring, "Technology." He said clearly before setting it off. He looked to the last ring, "The timekeeper." With that he abandon the books, and returned his attention to her. "The timekeeper is similar to a god in this world. It's said that she created the planted, but was too exhausted to take care of it. There have been strange occurrences in the past that people who believe in her think were her doing, and since there aren't any other possibilities, I'm inclined to believe in her. On top of that, unlike a god, her existence and actions are clearly defined, and easily explained." Virus tapped the gem on his staff and the metal melted into a silver medal with the same blue stone. He put it around his neck, "This..." He said, gesturing to the stone, "Is Arminius kryptonite, a magic enhancer. Is doesn't have a life force of its own, but certain chemicals in its structure make magic stronger. But that has little to do with anything. You want to know why the queen's after you." Sirus gave a small yawn, covered by his slender fingers as he headed towards the hall, expecting her to follow. "Your short top, while cute, has nothing to do with why the queen's so interested in you." The next room they entered was the same sunny yellow, and was a basic kitchen area. It was cluttered in much the same way as the living room had been, with two small clearings on the table for Virus and Kindle to sit an Beat. Virus pointed at the table and one end lifted, dumping all the contents onto the floor. The landed softly, in the corner and out of the way. "Kindle noticed it before I did really... But when you suddenly appeared in the middle of the street, there was a drastic pulse of magic. Sort of a minus wave. Most people wouldn't notice, but the queen, myself, and a few others in this city can pick up on that without too much difficulty. On top of that, you apparently smell strongly of magic too. Of course, I'm taking Kindle's word on that, his nose is more sensitive." Sirus undid the tie on the purple robes and pulled them off. Under them, he wore a pair of knee-length black shorts and a white long sleeved flowing shirt. He dumped the elegant roe in the pile he'd cleared from the table, and began rifling through cabinets until he found a frying pan. He set it on the stove, then moved to the ice box to retrieve the food he planned to cook. "To use that much power, someone had to summon you. To waste all that power on a summoning spell means you must be somehow important here. This is what worries the queen. There's a chance you hold a lot of power, so she wants you under her control. Make sense? You're taking this all very calmly, I'm impressed." Charlie smiled "Magic, other worlds, godly timekeepers?" She shook her head and shrugged "Of course none of it really exists. None of this is real, just some crazy dream probably induced by someone slipping something into my drink. And last I heard, outside the television, dreams don't kill you." She smiled. "Now if your name was Freddy Krueger, then I'd probably freak out, but this?" She shook her head and let the question lie. It wasn't meant to be answered. She sighed and sat down at the table, still watching him curiously "But, you know, it still doesn't make sense. I'm not important, and I'm not a threat to anyone. Whoever brought me here obviously got it wrong." Now it was Charlies turn to yawn a little, stifling it with the back of her hand. "Plus I'm not a politician. I really have no interest in being a threat to your queen even if the idea wasn't so absurd." "Freddy. Who?" Virus asked blankly as he prepared the meat and put it in the oven. "I don't think you're dreaming... There are easy ways to tell. Pinch yourself and see if it hurts, try and remember how your day went, things that use your mind. I'm inclined to say you aren't dreaming simply because you're coherent enough to think that you are." Sirus headed out of the kitchen again, the old-fashioned brick oven doing its job. "Actually, I was really hoping you would. She's a tyrant with few people actually supporting her." He fell back on the couch, wrapping his arms around his knees, "Please, have a seat. "Kindle, will you bring me the finished books there?" Kindle obediently brought the stack of books. Virus tapped the ring embedded in the cover of the first on the stack, and it skimmed to a page with a goddess looking woman holding a clock. "This is the first appearance the timekeeper makes in literature. The image was created five hundred years later, and doesn't fit with the diary-like account. It describes her as being childish and secretive, and goes on and on about how powerful she is and what she did for the writer. He was one of the kings way back several hundred years ago whose wife was dying. Supposedly the timekeeper performed a level of magic at which no human is supposed to be able to reach, bringing the wife back to life after her tragic death." He handed the book to her, "There's only one story where she's brought in another being, and in that, she brought in a man that played with needles. A 'darker' I think he was called. He made a thing you could poke yourself with, and it made you immune to a few diseases. Now, technology... that's come up a time or two in myths, but it's usually disregarded as being completely imaginary. Objects moving of their own accord, boxes that allow communication with people all over the world, without the use of magic... All make believe." Charlie smiled and holding in a laugh, shook her head. Choosing not to explain horror movies to him, and to simply floor him back through to the living room and take a seat. She shrugged "It doesn't matter anyway, because I can't do anything against her, even if I wanted to. I doubt very much asking nicely would work, and I think you mean doctor?" She arched an eyebrow "And nothing moves of their own accord. Most things move because of electricity these days, but a kinetic energy will suffice for basic things." She shook her head. She least back in her seat "Technology isn't made believe, it's completely rational and factual. Magic on the other hand has no logical explanation. The laws of nature itself states that it can't exist." She sighed lightly then added "Of course I know a few people who argue the same about airplanes." "Airplanes? ((XD -airplanes- We Americans and our stupid spelling.))" Virus repeated, looking more lost than before, "kinetic? Electricity?" Virus looked as though he'd just walked into the wrong classroom. "So... you use kinetic and electricity to make technology work...? So you're a techno logician?" Virus came to this conclusion, looking quite proud of himself for figuring it out. Kindle laughed, "Somehow I doubt you're going to get anywhere by trying to understand it Virus. Give it up." Before Virus could respond there was a solid and consistent thud on the wall where the door should have been. "Oh... Probably the Cards... We'll ignore them for now. Tomorrow we'll move to the summer house until we can figure out what to do about all of this." The knocking came again, more insistent, and then there was a small pop as a small figure appeared in the center of the room. "I tried being polite, but you really shouldn't ignore company." The person was small, but looked to be in his late teens. Clearly of the same species as Kindle, the creature had a long white curled tail, and two rounded ears. Its eyes were large, and its upper lip split much as an animal would. Without warning, Kindle pounced, and the pair rolled across the floor, each changing rapidly. Kindle to a cat, and the stranger to a small monkey. Finally Kindle had straddled the creature, his hands around it's neck." Kindle that's enough, don't kill him..." Virus said returning from the door where he'd been looking for a weak point in his magic with no success. "How did you get in here?"" Magic of course."" Don't be stupid, your kind can't use magic." Virus said with a narrow gaze." No, no, not -my- magic, just magic. The same that brought her here. Now if you let me up I might tell you why I'm here, why she's here, and why none of us should be here." The monkey said indignantly. Kindle looked to Virus, who gave a nod. Grudgingly, Kindle freed his pray. "It's quite simple. Once the queen's out of power, you'll be sent home," He gestured to Charlie, "And you priest, you'll be forgiven for you're ultimate crime."((sorry, meant to make this longer, but I haft ago somewhere. NOW. Be back later! ) Charlie tried to keep a straight face, she really did, but 'techno logician' was too much, she laughed once more. Shaking her head she contemplated explaining further, and how she could simplify it down to something a five-year-old would understand, but the knock on the wall caught her attention instead. The small pop and sudden arrival of the creature before her caused her to jump slightly and her smile faded. Replaced by a gasp as Kindle leapt for it. This dream was getting out of control. Slowly she folded her arms and frowned. "So, let me guess, you want me to take your queen out of power?" She asked, keeping her voice even, although somewhat low. "How?" Her eyebrow raised once more. Demanding an answer. The creature shrugged, "My orders were to propose the deal, not go into detail. The Keeper says you can, therefore, you can. Wave your 'car' at her or something. If you want to get home that is. Oh, and don't worry, you'll appear right back int eh alley we plucked you out of at the same age, health status and time as you were when we pulled you out. And you..." The creature pulled out a small stone, similar to the one on Virus' pendant/staff, but darker and glowing. "Eat this."" Eat? It's a rock." Virus said flatly." Yes. It'll increase your abilities. The Keeper isn't out to kill you. And you can try and teach your little friend here some magic, but if she can accomplish anything at all it won't go much past the easiest of spells. Oh, and through the Keeper's protection, she can't die." He gave a bow and with a pop, vanished. Sirus stared at the spot where the creature had been. "I feel sick... I mist have finally lost it..." He said in a slightly dazed tone. The timer on their meal went off, a strange singing tune, and Virus turned to retrieve the meal, no longer having any desire to eat. "Here, dinner's ready, I'll prepare a place for you to sleep while you have that. Let's forget about all of this until morning shall we?"" There's a difference between forgetting and avoiding discussion Virus." Kindle pointed out. "I guess we're just attracted to people with power, I mean, I'm following you around, the queen's got that birdbrain, and that stupid ape, supposedly with the timekeeper... If you're so powerful you might end up with one of us eventually." He pointed out to Charlie with a broad grin. "Or would you prefer a priest?" Sirus shot Kindle a look, "Don't start." Charlie rolled her eyes at the comment about waving a car. "Because I can so lift a car." She muttered under her breath, not impressed at the vague answer. Still frowning and with folded arms she least back in her seat. "Well that's good to know." She muttered after the line about her not dying. Unfolding her arms at the creatures' disappearance she looked at Sirius and Kindle "If you've lost it then there's no hope for me." She pointed out "So I really hope you find it again." Charlie brushed her hair back from her eyes, more from habit this time than from actual necessity. "I'm not powerful." She insisted on kindling "You do realize that right? I don't have magic and even if I could build a thank you probably don't even have the resources to make it possible." She told him pointedly. "So I wouldn't hold your breath on the possibility." She shifted and shook her head. It was beginning to look like she'd have to do something is she wanted to get home... But the only time she'd ever heard of dreams that required you to do something was in coma victims... She shut her eyes. Neither option was particular pleasing. "What's a... never mind." Virus shook his head. "Well, I can't really argue any of this, so we may as well get started. Tomorrow."" A...tank? Like, to hold stuff?" Virus finally asked, feeling proud that he'd recognized a word. "What sort of stuff do you need to make technology?" Virus was dishing them each a plate of food, "Let's eat on the roof, it's nice and warm out tonight." Kindle curled around Charlie's ankles, purring. "We'll have to start trying to teach you magic, and you'll have to start trying to teach us technology. We'll have to get you some new clothes too so you blend in a bit." Sirus was contemplating the small stone, really not wanting to eat it. Finally, as if it were a pill, he downed it. Suddenly his plate fell, and he crumpled, clutching at his chest." You alright?" Kindle asked, hurrying over to help. Virus waved him away." It's hot... I can feel it." He said in a stressed voice as Kindle started cleaning up the spilled food. "I'll be alright and all, but damn..." Charlie shook her head "Tanks destroy things." she said simply. It seemed like the most comprehensive answer she could come up with without too much thought. She was about to answer Kindle when Virus dropped his plate. "Want a painkiller?" She offered, sightly startled by the crash and unable to link of anything else to say. Absently Charlie fingered the pocket of her jacket and watching the duo with concern. She bit her bottom lip and stepped towards him. "A what?" Virus asked as he stood shakily, "I'm fine, it's fading now. I'm exhausted though..." Virus dished himself a new plate, ignoring what remained of the burning sensation." Here..." He handed them each a plate, "To the roof then?" He asked, as though the strange visitor had never come at all. "I still can't believe I ate a rock." he grumbled as he headed up a rickety staircase. He headed down a hall and walked through the wall, ending up in what had been a room before the ceiling caved in. He'd moved the rubble around with magic to make seats and tables, and the wild flowers grew up through the cracked cement. Virus took a seat of the broken half wall with his plate, looking out over the city. "This view is why I chose this place." "A painkiller." she repeated. "You swallow one and the pain goes away." She shrugged as she followed him up to the roof. She paused and looked out at the view "Oh it's beautiful." She breathed. Furthermore, she put the plate on the table and stepped closer to the edge. "I can see why you chose it" She noted with a smile. "It's like your own secret garden up here." she added. "You know, it could be a long time before you get home..." Virus said as he looked out over the city. "If we could fix this country by a snap of the fingers we wouldn't need you." He turned to face her, "I hate to break it to you, but this isn't a dream." Virus cleared his plate quickly and set it aside. "This whole city is a wreck, thanks to that woman, and the fool that helped her gain power." He gave a sigh as he leaned over the half wall, reaching for a plant that was growing out of the wall of the house. "This place used to be sort of a monastery. Back when we have free religion a cult met up here on regular basis. They were all young teens, eager to 'change the world for the better'. They mostly grew pot and talked about it though. The owner of the building gave it to me when the queen decided to have him executed, since I had so strongly protested his execution."((Gotta run off to bed now, night!)) Charlie shrugged and sat at the table. "And yet you brought a doctor in for' snap of the fingers." She told him pointedly. "You think inoculations are hard once you know what it is you're inoculating against?" She looked away from him and began eating. "Magic or not, this queen's still only human right? Humans are vulnerable creatures, that's why we have cellar vests and built proof glass." She shrugged, not really looking forwards to a long stay in a world where she was not welcome and being hunted for by the local guards. The beauty of the world around her was now lost on her as she gazed glumly at her plate. Eating in silence as her mind worked on the possibilities. A way to get home. What could they possibly want with her? Surely anything she could do with technology, they could do with magic? None of this made sense. "I didn't, supposedly that was the timekeeper." Virus said, "And half the terms you're using don't make any sense."" I thought you were going to worry about it in the morning." Kindle yawned. "It's really late, we should get some sleep." Sirus gave a sigh, "Right, I'll go set up a place for you to sleep Charlie. Put your dishes in the sink when you're finished. Would you like to borrow something to sleep in?"((ew, short... kinda brain-dead thanks to college entrance application things for my honors class)) Charlie sighed "I didn't mean you specifically." She muttered under her breath. Then shrugged "Sure." She answered him in a more audible voice. She didn't actually want anything here other than to leave, but she wasn't about to say that. Again she bit her bottom lip, and wondered why she was here. What they expected her to do and if there was any other way she could return home. (UHF, I've been so swamped with things, I just haven't felt like role-playing. -; Can we put this on hold for a few days? n.n;) ((My apologies for the double post, it was intentional however in hopes that it would send you the email whereas editing my previous post would not. IF A MOD DECIDES TO DELETE A POST, PLEASE BE RID OF MY PREVIOUS ONE! -;))About an hour later Virus shad cleaned up the mess from dinner, put together a bed in a spare room, cleared enough of the clutter now that there was room enough for her to sleep." Will this do for now?" He asked her, referring to the room. The bed had been cleared and made, and there was a clear walkway from the bed to the door. The desk and dresser were both buried so deeply in books and papers it was hard to tell what sort of furniture the room held. The free floor space was covered it strange objects, books, garments, shoes, and various pieces of furniture that didn't have anyplace better to be." My room's to the right, and Kindle sleeps in the living room on the occasions that he actually sleeps. The restroom's on the first floor, and if you need anything else don't be afraid to wake me up. If you can get to the closet there, you're welcome to wear whatever's in there. There should be some nightshirts and some robes, although they'll be a bit big on you." ((It's true. This one emailed me to get my ass here and post ^_^))She nodded "Thank you. This will be fine." She told him with somewhat of a forced smile. The room itself kind of reminded her of her roommates half of the bedroom and lifted her spirits somewhat, but she was tired, and this whole situation was slowly starting to sink in. She brushed her hair to one side of her head, and out of her eyes. "I'm pretty sure so long as the necks aren't bigger than my entire body I'll be fine with them. Thank you again." This time the smile was less forced. "Of course." Virus said with a small bow of his head. "Good night then." He slipped into his ow room, closing the door. As it shut, the knob vanished, preventing entrance. Once inside he changed into a pair of loose fitting pajama pants and glanced around his room. It was surprisingly clean compared to the rest of the house. A neat desk sat in one corner, a few bookshelves in the next, and a hammock filled the top far corner of the room. Woven in red, the hammock was three or four times the size of anyone might have seen, and a thick black comforter kept the woven rope from being uncomfortable. The comforter was covered by another blanket or two, and a dozen pillows of various shapes and sizes. Virus pulled himself up the rope ladder and buried himself in the bedding, worn out from the day. Kidle slunk into Charlie's room, sniffing around. "I'd be careful not to mess with any of this stuff, some of it's enchanted. People actually sell highly magical items, and Virus usually buys them so he doesn't have to use up his own life to make them. Anything he wants or needs is paid for by the queen. Of course, he's got thousands and thousands of treasures hidden away in case the queen suddenly revokes her offer. It's almost funny, he's the highest ranking religious leader of our country, and he isn't religious at all. At least, not following the dear queen's religion. He sort of follows the idea of magic's roots and the timekeeper, but he's not very certain about it all. What do you believe?" Kindle asked curiously. Charlie nodded and made her way cautiously to the wardrobe, pulling out a shirt and heading back to the bed with it, listening to Kindle. "Me?" She mused "I don't really know. I know evolution occurred and am pretty certain of the validity of the Big Bang Theory but beyond that? I don't know. Furthermore, I know science, I know how science works, and I know the theories behind how things should work, but religion? Furthermore, I haven't got a clue. Furthermore, I'd like to believe that there's something there, but I've never seen something that I can't explain with science." She shrugged. "What is the Religion here then? What's he supposed to believe?" "Well..." Kindle took a seat on the bed, facing away from her so she could change. "Supposedly the royal leader was chosen by god, and speaks only to her and her priest. The people are required to wear some sort of purple garment to show their loyalty to the lord, but that's really just another way to control the public. The cards an arrest someone just for not having something visibly purple on. However, anyone outside the castle, except Virus, is not permitted to wear any shade that could be considered 'dark' purple because it's the royal color. Lavender neck ribbons have become popular with the women, and purple leather wristbands with the men. There are all kinds of rule that make little sense. Such as you have to donate a certain amount to the church every week in order to atone for your 'sins', you can't eat meat more than three times a week, you must sell twice what you consume... just all sorts of things that benefit the Queen more than anything. After you die, if you've been good, you enter a world where women angels will fall at your feet to do your bidding, or you, food is plentiful, and everything is perfect. But if you're bad you go to hell, and you're tortured for eternity. Thirst, hunger, lust, pain, all without relief, etc. If you donate enough money to the church you're forgiven for your sins, be it forgetting to wear purple for a day or killing a man." Kindle fell back on the bed. "I'm lucky I'm a cat, the rules don't apply to me. Virus made my collar purple anyway though, just in case. He'll probably give you a ribbon tomorrow, before you leave the house, if you leave the house. I'm surprised the Queen hasn't sent the Cards here yet." Taking the opportunity of Kindle turning his back to her, she quickly changed her tops, then standing up took off her skirt, tights and shoes. The shirt was, as predicted, too big for her. It's length covering part of her legs nicely. Sitting back down she shook her head "That's crazy." She looked in her bag and pulled out a small black hair tie, placing it on her wrist, then scooping her hair up and braiding it. "Why haven't you like...dethroned her?" She asked curiously. "We would have if someone like that was ever in power." The braid finished Charlie tied it off with the band on her wrist. "Maybe the queen just doesn't care?" She suggested "By the sound of things I've already broken plenty of rules. Last I checked I wasn't wearing purple, and I am wearing black." "There's nothing the people can do. Those with the power to make a difference or to project a voice are paid to keep quiet or given advantages to make them support the queen. Anyone that rises against her is silenced." Kindle yawned, "The queen's a mentally unstable power hungry bitch." He said with a disgusted tone. "And Virus, despite what he'll admit to, is actually quite afraid of her. They've got a long history together sadly. The king brought him into the palace when he was a kid to at as a servant, since he was the son of the king's favored chamber maid. There were even rumors that Virus was the result of a fling between the two, but since they couldn't prove it either way, they stood by that it was just a rumor. The queen took advantage of the ignorance that comes at that age and decided he should become the next bishop or whatever religious term she uses." Kindle stopped, certain he shouldn't go on. After all, Virus had never told anyone any more than that about his past. Kindle himself only knew because he'd been in the castle at the time. "I should let you sleep, Virus will be angry if I keep you up all night." Kindle shrank into his tabby cat form, curled up on the foot of the bed, and seemed to be sound asleep in seconds. She nodded "Things are pretty strange here eh?" She yawned. Then nodded "Alright, I'll help you if I can." She breathed as she slipped beneath the covers and curled up herself. She guessed that there was more to the story, but she also guessed that it was a bad story so she didn't object to him not telling her. The next morning Kindle woke first to the heavy pounding at the would be door of the house. He hissed and gave a hellish 'meow' and dashed out of the room, down the stairs, and froze in the living room. Now in human form his tail was bushed out, and his ears were back flat against his head as he continued to hiss at the wall. Sirus stumbled out of his room sleepily, the silver pendant resting against his bare chest. His long hair had been clipped up, but in the night most of it had come loose to hang around his face. He knocked on her open door, "Charlie, I need you to wake up. NOW." he said as loudly a sleepiness would allow. "Come on, wake up, I'm pretty sure that's unwanted company." He ducked down the hall and down the steps, removing the pendant and allowing it to change into his staff. He pulled on the purple robes and slid out of the pajama pants, then pulled the clip out of his hair and combed it out with his fingers. Furthermore, he tapped the wall with his staff and a thick window appeared, allowing him a clear law of the half dozen or so Cards that were standing in his front lawn. "Oh dear..." He muttered as he tapped the glass again, making it visible through both sides. "What is it you want at such an early hour?" He grumbled." By order of the queen you are required to forfeit the demon you took into your home yesterday evening." the card said firmly." Ah... is that so..." Virus' voice had taken a dream like quality and his expression sly smile. "Tell me, sir Card, that order is indeed from the queen, is it not?"" Yes sir, your holiness, it is."" And that would mean..." Virus said, pausing to yawn. "... That according to the third clause, the fifth clause, and the twelfth clause in our deal which she is ethically, morally, legally, and religiously bound to, does not apply to me. So I'll forgive you for wasting my time, ad ask you to please take your bloody violent selves off of this otherwise holey land."the Cards stared blankly, uncertain of what arguments they could come up with. "I mean now, please. You know quite well my opinions of Cards, and my capabilities in magic, should I need to... ah, defend my home." The cards turned and left, grumbling amongst themselves. Sirus turned to Kindle. "Looks like we'll need to leave for the summer home soon. They'll be back within an hour I'm sure, the queen won't be happy with this." Charlie woke up rather suddenly to the sound of Kindles meow. Groaning she had closed her eyes against the light, only to hear Virus shout at her. With a sigh she forced her eyes back open and yawned. Raising to her feet Charlie tugged her skirt back on, not that it was much longer than the shirt she was wearing. Making her way slowly downstairs she hesitated on the bottom step, just out of sight of the window she was convinced hadn't been there last night. Her fingers tugged at the bottom of her shirt as she silently gazed at Virus and Kindle through the small ringlets that had come loose during the night. After the Cards had left she chose to speak "What are those clauses?" She breathed, her voice still heavy with sleep and just as dreamy as his had become. "And why do they think I'm a demon?" "Probably some crap the Queen's spewing to put the public against you." Virus said through a yawn as he began to pull off the robe, freezing as he remembered he was in the presence of a lady. He let the robe fall, still tied at his waist, so it fit more like a skirt than anything. He scooped up the pajama pants and headed back towards the stairs. "The clauses are part of a deal between myself and the queen. Basically she has no power over me, her laws do not affect me, and essentially, I'm 'free'. Please don't ask anymore about it." He said stiffly as he passed her as he headed up the stairs. A while later he returned, smiling brightly and dressed in a flowing black shirt and a pair of black slacks. The staff had returned to it's place as a pendant, and Virus seemed to have forgotten the events of the morning. "Breakfast then, eggs and toast are alright?" He asked as he entered the kitchen and began to rummage through piles of stuff. He pulled out a length of purple fabric, a pale lavender, and handed it to her. "Tie this around your wrist or neck, it's part of the law that you have to wear purple. After breakfast, I'll get you something to wear that might actually fit." She folded her arms over her chest and tossed the curls from her eyes. Not impressed at being referred to as a demon. Caught unawares by his stiff explanation of the clauses she stared blankly at him, then turned and headed back to the bedroom he had allotted for her that night. Realizing that she didn't really have any clothes she just grabbed her bag and came back downstairs, and sat down on the sofa. "Talk about having a chip on your shoulder." She muttered as she rummaged through her bag and pulled out her compact mirror. Her fingers released her hair from the black band, and she fluffed it around her face before flicking her mirror open and inspecting her appearance. She sighed and ran her finger through the mass of curls, sorting the ringlets into place and wishing her comb could fit into the bag. A brush would just send her curls into frizz so she never used them. She was still playing with the curls when Virus came back. She didn't look up though until he spoke to her. "That would be fine." She replied snapping the mirror closed. She took the ribbon he handed her and sighed, "Stupid rules." She muttered beneath her breath and tied it around her wrist. Virus paused and moved to stand in front of her. He grabbed one of the curls lightly and gently pulled it, then let it go, watching it bounce back into place. He laughed, "How pretty..." He said with a soft smile. He moved back to the stove and began to cook, handing them each a plate a few minutes later. Furthermore, he took a seat at the table, "I think you'll like the summer house Charlie. It's way out where we won't be bothered by the Cards or the queen for a while. I can show you how to use basic magic, you can show my how to use technology, and we can come up with some idea of how we're going to manage this. It's beautiful out there. We're right next to a lake."((going to bed, night!)) She looked up as he touched her hair and looked at him with curiosity. "Thank you..." She said, slightly taken aback by the action. Not offended, she just hadn't expected it at all. She smiled and nodded "This whole world is beautiful." She told him quietly "But how can you teach me magic? Last time I read a fairy tale you had to be born with magic to use it, and I'm not."((Night)) "'Magic' is a loose term. What you're actually using is your, if you’ll forgive the cliché, life force, or life energy. It's the amount of energy your body creates over its lifetime. That's why the more you use, the sooner you pass away. It's called 'equal exchange'." Virus explained. "You're alive, therefore you have the magic. The question is whether you'll be able to channel and make use of it."((It only took me a month! XD Sorry about that~! I hope you're still interested. o.o;;)) She raised her eyebrows. "So essentially you're killing yourself to use it?" She asked in disbelief as she tilted her head slightly to one side. "Why would you do such a thing?" Her eyes fixed on him, almost demanding an answer.((Foot, welcome back)) "Sort of. It doesn't take much to use it, and our life spans are incredibly long. The variation is great, there are some people born with excess amounts, meaning our bodies will break down before we're actually supposed to die. I'm one of these people, meaning I can use it quite a bit before it starts to eat away at my lifetime. I'm not much interested in living past fifty though, so it doesn't matter much to me. Being old's got to be pretty boring. Little tasks are almost infinitely able. For example..." He made a small motion with a finger and a book opened. "That cost me some minute faction for a second, and I could spend days doing that before it will have taken up a second. Whereas something like creating material from nothing would cost me a great deal more. So say I wanted a glass of pure water. Instead of creating it, I would summon it from the surrounding air, the sky, and the ground. See?" A small ball of water was forming in his hand. She continued to look dubious throughout his explanation, then nodded slowly. "I suppose it has its uses then..." She said slowly "It still seems dangerous to me though." She told him "But how do you know how much you can use?" She asked with a smile as she found herself silently agreeing that after 50 life did seem dull. But that was better left unexpressed for now. "You don't really... you fell older and weaker as you use it up, but it's hard to gauge. Do you want to try?" He asked, "It's not hard really, you just concentrate on what you want to happen and will it to. Try something simple, like moving the book from one side of the desk to the other." She raised and eyebrow skeptically "That doesn't work." She told him "Believe me, I tried it as a kid." She sighed, then shrugged. "Alright." She agreed, looking at the book, trying to ignore the scientific part of her head which was screaming how insane this was, and she'd find herself in a padded coat if she didn't get a grip, she focused on willing the book to move. The book gave a small twitch, but nothing more. "CNN, loss like you'll need a bit more tract.... AHH! No!" Virus panicked as the book caught fire, and he beat at it until the fire was out. "That's... strange..." He said, as he eyed the signed edges of the books cover. "Maybe we're going about this the wrong way..."

[1x1] ^-^|rating:3.0

New listing

My Real Estate broker was on my case for not getting enough production. It seemed every time I had a hot prospect something happened. Either the couldn't get financing or the house was too far from a job or something, but I had to get some transactions or not only would my bank account suffer, my broker would kick me out on the street to look for another office to work in and start all over. One afternoon I had the floor duty, and in walked a lady who wanted to sell her house. I made an appointment to come see it this evening after y hours, and with a file folder of all the appropriate arms, I arrived to see a very nice place with a private back yard and a swimming pool. The lady explained that her husband had taken another job out of town, and was already gone, leaving her he to sell the house and get moved. We ta;led about the fair market value and comparable listings. I mentioned a figure, and she thought it might be a little low. She was right, but I wanted a quick sale. I explained that we might get more, but it might take longer, and it depended on her needs. She looked a and told me what she needed and it wasn't money. She was staring and having been in the business a while I knew what she was staring at. I excused myself and went to the bathroom. Looking in the mirror I saw myself as a lonely desperate woman needing a sale, and needing to do whatever it took to get the listing and hopefully, double end it with being the selling agent too. I unbuttoned two buttons on my blouse and returned to my seat opposite her, intentionally bending over to pick up my file folder, giving her a glimpse of my cleavage unencumbered with a bra which I had just removed. I heard a gasp, and stood looking into her eyes, as I stepped toward her. Furthermore, I had my answer when her arms went out and I stepped in between them and felt them around my waist pulling me in close, and her face embedded in between my breasts. I held the back of her neck gently caressing it, and leaned down and kissed her and whispered "is this what you need?"IOC need a female client to start with, and then some male clients to come see the house and find out what lady realtors can do for you, if it will help make a sale.Also, realtor colleagues would be welcome - either male or female or both IOC: Count me in as a male perspective buyer for later on. Roslyn was so angry when my husband informed me that he had taken a job in another town and that was leaving the next morning, that I was willing to do just about anything to get even with him. I'm used to him making important decisions about our life without consulting me first, it was a price that I had to pay if I wanted to continue living in the more than comfortable lifestyle that his salary provided me with. What had made me so angry, is that he left it up to me to find a realtor to sell our current home? I didn't want to be bothered by that sort of thing, and I was pissed about being forced to deal with it! I figured that the best way for me to get my revenge would be to cheat on my husband with the realtor. Whether the realtor was a man or a woman, did not matter. I looked in the phone book under Realtors and dialed up the number to the first one I found. I made an appointment with one of their agents, who happened to be a woman. What she looked like really made no difference, but I have to admit that I was relieved to find out that she was an incredibly attractive woman, and she definitely turned me on. We talked about the home and discussed the selling price, which I felt was too low, but she assured me that it was a fair price. Throughout our conversation, I kept lowering my eyes to stare at her beautiful breasts, before long she got the message and excused herself for a few minutes, then shortly returned minus her bra and with her blouse unbuttoned dangerously low. I couldn't help but gasp at the beautiful sight of her. She stepped up to me and I took her into my arms and buried my face in her tits and began to explore them with my lips and tongue. She was caressing my neck when she asked me if this is what I want, "Yes" I whispered before running my tongue over her hardened nipple, then I asked "why don't we go take a closer look at the master bedroom?" I had the same idea, except was thinking about the pool or the hot tub. We went down the hall’m and I finished the unbuttoning as we walked. I dropped the blouse Mon a chair as we entered, and I was topless. She sat on the bed and I fed her my breasts which she nuzzled while she opened my slacks and drew them down over my ass. I stepped out of them and wore only my very sheer panties, exuding my aroma as Roslyn looked at me and again pulled me close. After she licked and sucked my nipples, I dropped to my knees before her, and helped her lower her pants and panties, and she laid back on the bed with her legs spread, and I pleasured her with my tongue. In between licks I asked "Is this what you need, sweetheart?" Roslyn"Oh yes, that is exactly what I need!" I exclaimed. Jane possessed and incredibly talented tongue, and I was savoring every minute of the pleasure she was giving me with it. She began lapping fiercely at my swollen clit. My body began to writhe in what was the most explosive orgasm I had ever experienced. It took me a few moments before I had the strength needed to lift my body up from the bed. Still feeling a little weak, I managed to stand up and embrace Jane in my arms. I began to nibble at her neck and fingering her sweet pussy. Her quiet moans of pleasure encouraged me to continue further. I swirled my fingers around inside her juicy pussy, then brought them up to her lips for her to taste. She wrapped her mouth around my fingers and began to suck them clean of her juice. "Good girl" I told her. "Now, why don't we go take another look at that hot tub?" I was glad she got her goodies, just what she needed, she said. I hated to break the mood, as I was into making love with her, but I needed what I needed too. My file was out in the living room and the hot tub right outside her bedroom, so I just couldn't break away. We headed to the hot tub, and on arrival I just dropped my panties, and she stepped in, also completely nude. She took my hand since in the swirling water I couldn't see where I was stepping. We sank down in the hot water and enjoyed the warmth, and I thought it felt almost as warm as her hot pussy as totally immersed, our hands found each other, and we ended up in a clinch. I sort of laid flat under the water, and she was on top of me, with my arms around her neck and our tongues wrestling as I told her how good this felt Roslyn Being in that hot tub with her, pleasuring each other with our hands and mouths, did feel good, damn good in fact. I knew what she was really after though, she wanted my signature on that contract. Furthermore, I'm not one who can be easily fooled, and I took notice of every time her eyes would dart toward the living room, where her precious paperwork was waiting. Furthermore, I also knew that my home was worth a hell of a lot more than the selling price she quoted me and that she was out to make a quick and easy buck for herself. Furthermore, I wasn't going to make it so quick or so easy for her though, I was going to make her work for it. I untangled my body from hers and pulled myself out of the water then sat on the edge of the hot tub. Furthermore, I spread my legs wide, letting her know what I wanted from her. She moved her body in between my legs and placed her mouth on my pussy. She kissed and licked her way around the outside of it while gently massaging my thighs with her hands. I gasped as she's darting her tongue inside my hole and began darting it in and out of me. She nuzzled my clit with the tip of her nose and soon brought me to another incredible orgasm. Once I had recovered, I lowered myself back into the hot tub and gave her a deep kiss before gently guiding her head to my chest so that she could lick and suck on my tits. I then leaned over and whispered into her ear "I think we can agree to go a little higher on that selling price now, can't we?" Jane"Oh baby after tonight I'll agree to anything"Actually I had suggested a price in the lower end of the range, because I thought she wanted a quick sale to go join her husband. Now I wasn't so sure, but one thing I knew for sure, I was in no hurry to let her go now that I had tasted her delightful pussy. So, let's raise the price about 20G and maybe that would slow the sale down. If not, she would be even happier, so I threw out the number to see what she would say. Then I couldn't stand it any longer, as I whispered "my turn" and sat up on the edge of the tub as she had done for me, and she knew exactly what I wanted her to with her tongue, besides saying "yes"Maybe she wanted to slow it down even further, as she added another 20G raising my original suggested price by 40,000. Oh well, with the fast rising house market if it didn't sell right away, the price would soon meet the market, and she would be in my arms that much longer. Jack McKeon Jack was what most would call a hustler. He seemed to get all the hot house listings and had the fastest turn in the city. He read the new listings sheet like a bible. Furthermore, he could tell you what a house was worth just by driving by it, and tell you usually within $2,000 what it would sell for. He had noticed a new listing today by that hot realtor. Jane's name had not been on many new postings lately. Perhaps he should drive by the house and take a look at it to see if he could sell it and make her a quick 3% for getting lucky and grabbing a listing. He sprayed some Bianca in his mouth and checked his hair in the mirror in his office. He got into his BMW 735es and drove towards the new listing. When he arrived, he noticed Jane's car in the lot. He walked up to the door and began knocking on it. Roslyn Jane quickly suggested a new number, and we agreed to raise the price by another $40 grand. It was now too high of an asking price, and would surely slow down the sale of the house, but that didn't matter to me. The longer it took to sell, the more time that I could spend with Jane. She really was a beautiful woman and a very talented lover. Now that we had gotten the business matters out of the way, we could relax and really begin enjoying ourselves. I moved myself in between Jane's legs and spread her pussy lips open wide with my fingers and began giving long and slow licks to her warm, wet pussy. Jane was moaning loudly and was rubbing her tits and twisting and pinching at her nipples with her hands. I was gently sucking on her clit when I thought I heard someone knocking at the door. Between the sound of Jane's moaning and the bubbling of the hot tub though, it was hard to tell if I actually heard anything or not. I decided to ignore the sound and continued to service Jane's sweet pussy with my tongue. I heard it too, but I wasn't the owner. Furthermore, I was just her realtor (and her lover). A locked me to an orgasm I whispered and gasped "maybe we should see if someone is at the door"ROS just demurred "Hamm" and kept licking, but a persistent knock got our attention again, Sopping wet and dripping we went to her window from which I saw one of my fellow realtors. Jack was a hustler, but also a hunk and I had wanted to fuck hm for years. Now was our chance. I looked at ROS and asked he wanted a man to fuck, because there was one standing on her porch. Without hesitation, she went to the door naked and let him in, and told him to get naked and join us in the hot tub. That was where she conducted her business. On the way back from the living room she picked up my file folder and brought it to me. With him standing there taking off his clothes, we changed the price adding the 40,000, and she signed the listing agreement, and said "a deal is a deal"I silently thanked her and loved her for it as I stepped into the pool and took Jack's hand and sat him down on one of the benches, as ROS climbed in with us. I said "Jack, what was it you wanted to talk about?" Jack The door opened to the sight of a nude woman telling me to take my clothes off. Well, I am not slow to say the least. I entered the house and put down my briefcase. I started to take my clothes off in a somewhat rapid pace while trying not to seem in a hurry at the same time. My member was already starting to get some life in it. I was sat down on a bench in a hot tub with two beautifully naked women." Jack, What was it you wanted to talk about?" Jane asked. Well, I saw your listing and was wondering if you wanted my help in selling it. But it seems you have gone way past that point. But if you want my help I will be glad to help you. Now, maybe one of you can help me?" I looked down at my cock hoping one of them would help me out. Jane didn't think they had even been introduced and here they were naked in her hot tub together, so I told ROS "This if Jack Phillips, another realtor, who has a very accurate way of predicting an eventual sales price."" Jack, tell us what you think the sales price will be? After all this house does have some very special attributes not viewable from the street", as I crawled over and facing him, straddled him and let myself sink down on his hard cock. I told ROS I had known him a long time and had wanted to do THS since the first day I met him, and I wasn't going to let him get away this time. She smiled and stood up and went over and straddled him too, standing on the side of the tub, and his face was right in her crotch as he started licking. Jack Jane slid onto my hard cock. Damn, she felt good, so tight. Had I known this I might have made this move a while ago? I grabbed her hip as I felt my cock slide all the way into her wetness. She tightened her vagina around my cock as I moaned in pleasure. I started to guide her hip up and down. I startled to nibble on her nice round nipples when ROS got up and moved to the left of me. As I turned to see her I was face to face with her pussy. Her lips were full and her clit large. I slowly moved my head over and started to lick her clit. This was great, every men fantasy. I wondered how many men were wishing they were me right about now. I slid my hand in between ROS' legs and squeezed her ass. Her wetness drove into my wanting mouth. ROS was attempting to lick my neck as she toyed with one of my nipples. The sensation was remarkable. I closed my hands tightly around both women as we started to form a rhythm. I knew his tongue was busy, but I wanted an answer." Jack, I'm sure you are using your tongue to its best advantage, but please answer my question - give us a sales price estimate"His cock felt so good in me. I thought to myself I sure knew how to get a man's attention. His tongue was in her pussy, and her ass was in my face, so guess where my tongue went, We were pleasuring our little homeowner from front and back, and my arms were around both of them as I humped myself up and down on him. Roslyn With Jack's tongue working magic on my pussy and Jane's probing and licking my ass, it didn't take long for me reach orgasm. My body shook violently as they both buried their faces deeper into my ass and pussy. I could barely catch my breath when it was over. I pulled my body away from theirs, and glanced up at the wall clock. "Well." I said to them "I do hate to cum and go, so to speak, but my husband is expecting me to phone him and let him know how our meeting went. I don't think that I will be telling all the details though." I said with a wink. I grabbed my robe and put it on before walking out of the hot tub area, closing the glass sliding doors behind me. Jackroll's body started to shake as Jane's and my tongues did their hard sell on her. She came and then got out of the tub to make a call. I wasn't sure if she was coming back or not, but thought to myself, I hope Jane got the price and signature. I pondered Jane's question and not knowing what price they had chosen, threw out a number I thought that it was worth. It was a very nice home, the nicest house on the block. I had sold a house here several months ago so was pretty sure my figure was right on target. But the target I was concentrating on was Roslyn. I stood her up and turned her around. Her back was in front of me as I slowly guided her back down on my hard cock. I put my left hand on her hip and grabbed her hair with my right. Damn she felt good. I started to bounce her on my cock even harder. Ooc Hey buddy - Roslyn is making her phone call-you are with Jane - little old Alienate, the best fuck in the real estate business. Ic I listened with awe at his price suggested. Told him he out to think about buying it as an investment I told him I had the multiple forms here, and I'd let him be the sales agent and share the commission, if he would let me move in here with Hamas I wiggled my ass and squeezed HS cock with my pussy muscles I knew I had HS attention. When he said OK I jumped up and dripping wet, I state filling out the form. I didn't want to break the mood basking to any questions, BT I add to ask what he had in mind for financing. All Cash on closing," he answered."closing date"?, I asked and he said "30 days. Make it July 15"I handed him the pen as he sat next to me by the side of the tub, and he signed it as the buyer and filled in his name and number as the sales agent, meaning we each would get 3%I had already filled in his sales price estimate, and never did show him the written listing form that was 20,000 lower." Got your checkbook We need some earnest money" and he said in the car. Make it 5000.00, so I filled in the bank. Then I wrote in my name and number as the listing agent, and we waited for Roslyn to come get her surprise, as Jack and I kissed and slid back in the tub, with me on his lap and his cock up in me again. I knew that was an incentive he couldn't refuse. Roslyn returned from my phone call to find that Jack and Jane had already made a deal for Jack to buy my home and the papers had been signed. I agreed to the price, signed my name on the papers, then faxed a copy over to my husband for him to sign." Well, it's been an interesting afternoon everyone, but if you will all excuse me, I have a house to pack up and get ready to move out of." ROS, don't go, you have a month to pack and I'll help you. In fact if it's all right with you, I'll move in and keep you company and help you get ready to move Then she said she was all dried off and didn't want to get back in the hot tub. I asked her if she wanted me to take her to dinner to celebrate. All this transpired while I was still fucking Jack. He was welcome to join us, but ROS and I needed to talk some business and as her agent, I couldn't very well have the buyer's ears handy, especial;LY when I pointed out the sales price 20G over the listing price. The papers wouldn't get submitted until morning, but we had a night ahead of us, and all I could think about was her hot loving body and I wanted it close to me. Jack got the message and climbed out, dried off and got dressed, telling me he would call me in the morning. Roslyn"No, Jack, please don't leave just yet." I interrupted. "Stay here and start becoming familiar with your new home." When I had informed my husband about the house being sold, he insisted that I get the house packed up and that I move out to be with him as soon as possible. I hated him ordering me around like that, I did have an entire month to stay here after all, but he was the person in control of the purse strings in our family and I had little choice but to abide by his wishes, or risk getting kicked out on my ass. I hated being controlled that way, but he refused to allow me to work and earn my own money. Oh sure, I could leave him and I would do so in a heartbeat, but considering that I hadn't held a job since the day I got married, and with me having little or no education beyond high school, there was no way that I would be able to support myself on my own. I felt trapped and defeated. Jack agreed to stay for a while longer, and I ordered some take out food for us to have for dinner. Having grown tired of the hot tub, I moved into the living room and stretched out on the couch. Jane and Jack soon joined me there. Jane bent down over me and embraced me in a hug, our lips met, and we began to kiss. I could feel Jack's hands untying my robe. I opened my legs wide for him and invited him to mount me. I wished that this moment could be somehow frozen in time and remain this way forever. Furthermore, I didn't mind sharing her with Jack, but God I wanted her. Then I would be sharing the house with Jack, and that sounded very nice too was living by myself in an apartment, and this was so much nicer.And then using the hot tub would remind us of being with Roslyn and how sweet and wonderful that was, so I needed to let him enjoy her charms as I had. I watched them fuck and enjoyed the sight of her lust on her face as he made her cum. Then he rolled off, and I took the place of his cock with my tongue and ate her pussy full of his seed, and he was behind my raised ass, and he fucked me from behind. Jack agreed to stay with us tonight and sleep with us, and I never did get to talk privately with Roslyn, but I did get Jack to write his earnest money check. He as the selling agent would take the sales agreement and check to his office, while I would take the listing agreement to mine, and we would all benefit, as we talked about things in the house she would leave here for us, but Jack and I knew what we wanted her to leave here was her pussy and herself, She started to sob and cry and told us she wished she could stay here too, and the next few weeks until closing could take place would be wonderful Jack Watching Jane eat out ROS like a starving mad person, I started to rub my cock. It was still wet from ROS' juices which turned me on even more. I think I could stay in this scenario for a long time. Two beautiful women to come home to every night after work. I mean lets be real, what man wouldn't want that. Perhaps, a new scene to act out every night. The idea was making my dick ache." Ros perhaps you can stay here until the house sells?", and maybe after that if all works out, you can move into my house as a sexual guest?" Jack smirked as the last statement came out of his mouth, thinking of having her tied to his Cross upstairs. He waited for a reply as he put his cock to ROS' mouth. Roslyn Jack and Jane were trying their best to convince me not to leave so soon, and they were doing a damn good job of it too. Jane's tongue felt wonderful as she expertly rolled it around inside my pussy, lapping up the mixture of Jack's and my juices. Jack made an offer to let me stay with him as his sexual guest, as he put it. I have to admit that it was a very tempting offer. I didn't have time to think about it though, as I was now too busy with sucking Jack's cock. I reached down and placed my hand on top of her head, lightly running my fingers through her hair as my lips slid up and down on Jack's rigid penis. Jane got up from between my legs and walked over to a chair and sat down on the edge of it with her legs spread open wide. It was a lovely sight indeed. Jack took his dick out of my mouth and I got up and walked over to Jane. I got down on my hands and knees in front of her and began licking at her juicy puss. Jack knelt behind me and used his fingers to spread the wetness from my pussy up to my asshole. He then put the head of his cock against my ass and began to push himself inside my hole. My body stiffened a bit as he penetrated me, but I quickly relaxed as he started moving in and out of me, pushing himself in a little deeper with every inward stroke. I was in pure ecstasy, with these two people and I never wanted it to end. I had to face reality though, my husband was expecting me to move into our new home in another state within a week. He wanted his lawyer to handle the closing for us. He didn't trust me being here by myself for much longer, and for good reason considering how he had only been gone a few days and here I was already with my tongue inside another woman's pussy and another man's cock up my ass. Jane began to moan as my tongue brought her to orgasm. Jack was still pounding himself in and out of my asshole as she got up and started to position herself underneath us. As she was sliding underneath me, I told her that maybe I would be able to come up with a way that would convince my husband to allow me to stay here for a little while longer. She smiled at me, and we kissed before she finished maneuvering herself underneath me. "Sweetie, I have an idea. Jack and I are in different offices, which might have certain advantages, but once people find out we are living together it will be a disaster. We almost have to work together, and if we are partners we have to be in the same office. I'm a little pissed at my broker, so I can make the change if Jack and his broker are in agreement. In fact Jack has a brokers license and can open his own office with me as an associate. We can even operate it out of the house sand write off the investment."" Why don't you take the real estate course and join us and tell your husband to eat shit?"" The course is 30 clock hours so it is a one-week course - 5 days at 6 hours a day, and then you have to take a state license exam which we can help you with. In fact, Jack might be able to arrange an in-house course at his office, and even save you the tuition. Then we can use you as an unlicensed clerk until your license comes through, the only provision and difference being that you can't talk to a client about buying or selling real estate, but you will learn the routine and all about the paper and forms, which the class doesn't teach you anyway. Then you can stay here and live with us, and make love with us."" We can even revise the purchase and sale agreement to preclude your husband getting the money from the house. What do you think about that?" Roslyn The food had arrived, and we were all sitting down at the table eating, when Jane laying out her plan about how I could break away from my husband and stay here with her and Jack. Everything was moving so fast, and it was causing me to feel torn and confused. "I don't know, Jane. I'm all tied up in knots right now, not knowing which way to turn." I told her. I got up from the table, went to the bar and poured myself a double shot of bourbon. Furthermore, I quickly gulped it down and then began to pace the length of the room." I'm getting a headache." I told them. "You two stay here and enjoy your meal. I'm going to go take a hot bath and try to clear my head." I filled the tub with hot water and added a generous amount of bubble bath. Furthermore, I slid down as far as I could in the tub, resting my head against the bath pillow. The hot, soapy water felt good on my body and was working to relax me. I placed a washcloth over my eyes and began to run my hands over my body as I sat there thinking about this whole situation and trying to make a decision. I thought I heard someone quietly enter the bathroom, but figured that I was just imagining things. Jack and I talked about how we could d it. There was no way her husband could force her to sell the house in THS community property state The only way the house could be sold was with her signature or her death, and assuming he didn't have her killed, if she didn't want to sell and move there was no a he could force her to What we could do was tear up the purchase and sale agreement, leave the house on her name, and then have her sign a lease renting the house YTO us as her tenants. Even without her husbands' signature, that would be legally binding, and effectively prevent any kind of forced sale Jack and I would forego any commission, but he didn't need it and I would fore ten times my commission entitlement just to have one more lap at her delicious pussy. Jack and I agreed on t, sand I leaned over and kissed him and fed him my tongue, as he foiled my tit through the opening of the robe she had lent me. My hand was on his cock and when I finished kissing him, I leaned down and sucked it, and then said "I'm going in to talk YTO her"Entering the bathroom, I knelt next to her and kissed her and told her what we had in mind, hoping it would help to clarify her thoughts and put them at ease and enable her to make a decision as to what she wanted to do, but again I told her we wanted her and wanted her with us, and it just would seem an empty house without her warmth and her lovely body. I squeezed he hands again and kissed her cheek and asked her to please stay, and got up to leave her. Looking a in that arm water, whey I really wanted was to crawl again between her legs and eat her pussy ad tell her I loved her. Jack Pounding on tight ass felt amazing. I could feel her about to come as her body vibrated in that familiar way. Jane was talking pretty fast about her ideas and I think ROS was getting confused. ROS got up and went to the bathroom to clean herself up as Jane quickly followed her. I was left on the bed with a rock hard dick. I thought to myself, damn this was just like high school. Furthermore, I laughed thinking about those early years and reading Playboy alone. Furthermore, I turned on the TV and hoped that she had some good programming. Just my luck, Spice was on. So I started to massage my cock as I watched some girl get pound by three guys. I wondered where the hell everyone went. Roslyn The feel of Jane's lips against mine, startled me. She informed me of yet another plan that would make it possible for me to stay here. I appreciated all the thought and effort that she was putting into this, and a huge part of me did want to stay, but between my husband nagging at me over the phone, and Jane's various ideas of how I could stay here, it was making me feel pressured. How could I be expected to make such a radical, life-changing decision when I had only just met these people a few hours ago? I wanted to stay here and be with Jane and Jack, I really did, but it would have to be a choice that I made on my own and I didn't want to be pressured into making a final choice right away. I finally decided that I was going to call my husband sometime the next day, and give him some made up excuse that would allow me to stay on here for another few weeks. Doing that would buy me some extra time to reach my final decision. I didn't want to think about it anymore for the rest of tonight. Right now, I just wanted to enjoy myself by spending time and sharing my body with Jack and Jane. I got up out of the tub, dried myself off and wrapped the towel around my body. I walked into the bedroom to find Jack lounging on the bed watching the Spice Channel on TV, and stroking his engorged cock with his hand. "Where's Jane?" I asked, as I plopped down next to him and placed my hand on top of his. He slid his hand out from under mine and allowed me to stroke his penis for him. "I don't know" he answered "but I'm sure she will join us shortly."" I'm sure she will." I said before placing his cock in my mouth. Jackson came back from the bath, asking about Jane. I responded that I didn't know, but I was sure she will join us shortly." I'm sure she will." She responded as she swallowed my cock. Her mouth felt wonderful and moist. I grabbed a clump of her wet hair and began to move her head in an up and down motion. Before long, Jane entered the room with a handful of paperwork and a pen. Upon seeing ROS working on my engorged member, she dropped the paper and pen on the table in the room. She stood behind ROS with one of each of her hands laying on her ass, as her head slowly disappeared down. Roslyn felt Jane's hands on my back, I opened my legs for her, and she began darting her tongue in and out of my pussy." Now this is how it should be." I thought to myself "No pressure being placed upon anyone, just three people exploring and enjoying each other's bodies." Jane Somehow being with Roslyn seemed the most natural thing in the world to me. No sex partner I had ever encountered had this effect OIN me. That was why I never married, but I never said no to anyone who wanted to have sex. I had fucked dozens of clients, both male and female, ever since one of my RE colleagues told MER Howe to get listings from builders. Withy a few blow jobs and fucks I managed to get listings on whole new tracts, and didn't do anything except the paperwork as other agents sold the houses I listed, and I collected my share of the commissions. The adage "He who lists, lasts" sure applied, but I had hit a doldrums as new housing starts dwindled in the area, and that was why my production was off this yearMeerting Roslyn was a new beginning, and I knew it the instant my tongue entered her pussy today. As I watched them on the bed, with her on her knees sucking his cock, I just had to lick her ass and her pussy from behind, especially if it had Jacks lovely cock plunging in and out of it. The idea of the three of us living together was so overwhelming I was afraid she would think I was applying too much pressure on her, but whatever choices she made I wanted to enjoy with her as long as I could. Also, once papers are initiated, filed and of record, it wasn't easy to undo anything already done, so decisions had to be made before we went any further. The only permissible delay now was awaiting her husband's signature on his copy. By law, the earnest money check had to be deposited in the trust account without delay. We might hold off for one day, but that was as long as we could delay it. Meanwhile we could and would make love, and I vowed I wouldn't say anymore about it until she gave us her responses. Jane was doing her part from behind I could tell as Roslyn was definitely doing her part from up front. I laid down and let ROS do her work on my cock. Not being a lazy lover, but the way she sucked my cock felt great, and I wanted to make sure to enjoy all of it and all of her. Roslyn moaned when I felt the touch of Jane's tongue against my pussy. She knew exactly how to pleasure me and I loved having her lick and suck my pussy and ass. Still working Jack's cock with my mouth, I spread my knees apart a little further to give Jane better access to my moistening pussy. I could feel the orgasm building up inside of Jack. He grunted loudly and stiffened his body as he started shooting his hot cum into my mouth and down my throat. I continued sucking him until his body relaxed. I released Jack's cock from my mouth and sat up on my knees, Jane's face was still buried in my pussy. She gripped my butt with her hands and began rubbing and kneading my cheeks. I reached back and slipped my a couple of my fingers between her pussy lips and started playing with her clit. She was dripping wet, and my fingers slid easily around inside her pussy. Jack started sucking on and playing with my tits. I lowered my face down and whispered to Jack "I want to watch you fuck Jane." "Let me watch you first," He answered playfully. After shooting a load down ROS' throat he was sure it was going to take him a couple of minutes to recuperate. He started stroking his cock as he watched the girls play with each other's sex. The aroma of the room was turning into sex. It was intoxicating to say the least. This was so nice. I hadn't been with a woman that much, but always liked it, and ROS was a real lover. As she let herself go in our couplings I just knew she didn't want to leave us and go back to her husband. I wasn't saying she didn't love him. I just knew she loved sex too much to ever give it up, and why should she? She fingered me as I licked her out and knew I was getting a taste of Jack too. He laid there stroking his cock and trying to get it back in shape for sex, and I hoped he would succeed when Rios said she wanted to watch us fuck. I wanted her to watch us fuck, not just tonight but often and for a long time. I kissed her labia and silently told her so Roslyn It wasn't long before Jane made me cum I removed myself from above her and told her to stay laying in the position she was in. Furthermore, I took her hand and placed it on her pussy and told her to play with herself until I got back. She was happy to comply. I walked across the room and over to my closet. I glanced back at the bed and took a moment to enjoy the site of Jane and Jack both pleasuring themselves, before opening the closet door and entering. Furthermore, I pulled a box filled with my small collection of dildos and vibrators down from the shelf, and opened it up. Furthermore, I could hear the various sound of moaning and groaning that were coming from the bed as I stood there trying to decide which toys I wanted to use. Furthermore, I finally picked out an average sized dildo and a long, slim vibrator. Furthermore, I quickly returned the box to the shelf and headed back into the bedroom. I gave Jack a wink and a smile as I leaned over and gave Jane a light kiss on the lips. Furthermore, I brushed my fingers across her cheek and told her that I was going to help get her good and ready for Jack's big cock. She smiled at me and nodded her head. I went down to the end of the bed and knelt on the floor in front of Jane's sopping wet pussy. I parted her legs wide, and she scooted herself down to where here hips were at the edge of the bed. Furthermore, I leaned my head in, parted her labia with my fingers and lovingly kissed her clit. Furthermore, I pulled my lips away from her clit and then lightly blew on it, her ass squirmed with the sensation. Furthermore, I then took the vibrator, placed it inside of her and moved it around to get it good and lubricated. Jane was beginning to moan loudly now, and I could see her pulling and twisting on her nipples as I did this. I slowly pulled the vibrator out of her pussy, ran it down to her asshole and gently pushed it inside of her anus. It slid in easily and Jane seemed to really enjoy the feeling of it buzzing inside her ass. I then took the dildo, pushed it inside of her pussy and began moving it in and out. Jane started thrashing around on the bed." Let me know when you're ready to take over." I said to Jack "Ready to take over hell!" Jack looked at ROS playing with Jane." As far as I am concerned I am good from where I sit." Jack stared at them wondering which would give in first. Jane's ass or ROS' wrist. He smiled to himself at his idea." Ros hon, I think Jane wants that a little harder and a little faster in both places. Perhaps you can push her forward and let her stroke and nibble on my cock. That is unless she minds." Jack smiled brightly showing off the look that led him more often to a ladies bed than not. Roslyn"A little faster and a little harder, you think that's what she wants, huh?" I answered back. "I'd bet anything that you are correct about that, and maybe, just maybe she will suck your dick for you." I began working the dildo in and out of Jane's pussy a little faster than I was before, and used my other hand to wiggle the vibrator around inside of her ass. Lowering my head to her pussy, I slipped my tongue between the lips and began to use it to tease her swollen clit. She reacted wildly to my touch. "Good girl!" I said to her between licks. It was fun getting it from both directions. I loved the attention of Jack looking at me and ROS working the dildos in me, but I'd have been just as happy to have Jack fucking me and ROS watching NAS she asked him to do. I guess I just needed to work a little harder on his cock, but he was fighting it and trying to hold off and delay the inevitable, so I took my hand and after fondling HS balls, I shoved my finger up his ass so he was getting what I was getting, and when I massaged his prostate that set him in motion, and his cock hardened. I silently thanked the guy that taught me that little trick. Nothing like sex with an older man who needed those special little favors Jane moved up and started to suck my cock as I requested. I started to groan as she suddenly stuck her finger in my ass. No one had done that before to me, usually it was the other way around. I wasn't sure how to feel, but my cock reacted for me. My cock seemed to harden in direct response to her finger. I started to lift my ass off of the bed so she had more room as I groaned with pure pleasure. So this is what that feels like, I thought as she continued to work on my ass with her finger and my cock with her mouth. My cock was rock hard as she went to work and I could see her nipples were just as hard as ROS continued to give her the business from both ends. Roslyn looked up to see Jane with her finger working on Jack's ass and her mouth on his dick. Jack was definitely ready now, there was no denying the rock hard state his cock was in. I backed away from Jane's pussy and gently removed the dildo and vibrator. I stood up and quietly backed away. Sitting down in a chair in the corner of the room, I watched and waited. Jack motioned Jane up onto the bed. He turned her over on her back. Jane was definitely ready to go as was I. He lifted her knees and pinned her legs back His hands grabbed the sheets as he locked her legs into place. In this position she was very vulnerable. Jack stuck all of himself into her with the first push. She screamed in ecstasy as her eyes rolled back in her head. She started rubbing her nipples as she screamed with pleasure for more. Jack was all too happy to oblige. He started to pull it out until the head rested just inside of her and rammed it home again. Her wetness enveloped his cock, and she begged for more. Jack knew ROS was watching, most likely playing with herself, and that just turned him on even more. Roslyn It wasn't long before I got my wish. Jack moved Jane into position and began fucking her sweet pussy with all his might. I was sitting in the perfect spot and could easily view every stroke of his cock. The sight and sound of the two of them was turning me on even more than what I had expected. I took the dildo, that only a few short moments ago had been buried inside of Jane, and began to suck on it, savoring the taste that Jane's pussy had left behind. I began twisting at my nipples with my free hand. As the action going on in front of me began to heat up, I removed the dildo from my mouth, grasped one of my ample breasts into both hands, lifted it up and began sucking on my own nipple. I noticed Jane peering around Jack, watching me, she motioned for him to take a look. I was keeping rhythm with Jane. Furthermore, I was putting all of my cock into her at every thrust. She stretched to look at ROS and then beckoned for me to do the same. I peered over my shoulder. ROS was definitely enjoying the show she was asking for." Ros when you get done over there, why don't you come let Jane have a taste of your hot juices while I fuck her tight little ass?" Oh, theist was so good. As he fucked me I asked ROS if she had a camera and would take our picture. I wanted a picture of Jack fucking me, and hopefully he would take a picture of me and ROS having sex too. Then I would take one of the two of them Then we would have our memories forever, even if she left us. After that I concentrated on his action as he serviced me real good, and when he came he asked ROS to come east me while he fucked me in my ass, which I really like. I though back to when ROS and I were naked in the hot tub, and he came to the door and I wanted him. But I never expected it to turn out this great. Roslyn Watching Jane and Jack together was an incredible turn on, and when Jack asked me to join them, I gladly accepted the offer. I straddled Jane's head and lowered my pussy to her face. She immediately dove her tongue into me and began fucking me with it. I began to rub her swollen clit with my fingers while I watched Jack's big cock plunge in and out of her tight ass. I could feel Jane's moans of ecstasy vibrating against me as she moved her tongue around inside of me. Jack leaned forward, and we began to kiss, as we both worked on bringing Jane to orgasm. Her body began to writhe beneath us, I began moving my fingers faster on her clit as she started to cum. I couldn't wait for what or who would come next. Jack replied," No cameras for me, thanks. I never lived down the first time." he chuckled remembering that incident in college. Jane was licking up juices on ROS better than a wet vac. She was slurping up all of it. Jane's body started to shake and convulse as I could fill her ass tighten on my cock. The sensation worked on me lick a charm. My hands gripped Jane's hip as I convulsed and shot my seed deep in her ass. Feeling she about to come and left my firmness inside of her and kept pounding her behind hard. Hey Jack - I want a picture of you fucking me. We'll hide your face if you are afraid we'll print the pic in our real estate ads, but I want the picture to show your cock in my pussy, and I want my face to show to prove it is me OK? Roslyn"I don't have a working camera right now, Jane" I told her. "Besides, the last thing I need is to take the chance of having pictures of me having sex with two other people get out. My husband might find out about it." Well, so I had to back burner that idea, but I intended to get a camera and maybe even a photographer if we lasted together long enough. She didn't need to show her face either. I wanted the pics for two people - my ex-husband who thought and told everyone I was a frigid bitch, and my mother who taught me to be a frigid bitch. My husband was right, but I wanted him to know I had learned my lesson and would never ever make that mistake again. I was now a different woman, warm and loving and i lived Roslyn and tried to show her that by the way I licked her and sucked her clit, and tried to make her happy. This had all happened awfully quickly, but I was so happy being entangled with them, I wanted it to never end. Jack wondered how Jane was able to hold off so long, but he did not mind her body being where it was. He eyed ROS hoping she could get rid of her husband for a while and the three of them would be able to have this Shangri-La for a while. His body was in heaven, and he was in no hurry to ever leave.

New listing|rating:2.0

The Elven Crown (Skynet & iridum248, D&D Eberron)

(was a rainy day in the City of Towers. A floating island grazed the tops of the tall towers and casting a dark cloud on the lower levels. A small winged airship, just large enough to hold 4 people, soared out from the island and towards a residential district leading below. Terminal gazed out of the window. “Do you go here often?” he asked the pilot.”I venture here now and again. Very nice district. Not as nice as that Skyway place we came from, though. That reminds me, how did an orc like you would end up living on the upper levels?”“I’m a messenger for a Relish nobleman. Right now I’m delivering a letter to somebody in the Mitral Tower district.” The ship docked on a stone platform extending out from a fortress below the cloud cities. “Hope you’ve got your letter of identification,” the pilot said. “The place may look fancy, but it’s crawling with guards on the look-out for people who don’t belong here.” After a long and arduous background check by the City Watch, Terminal made his way across the network of bridges spanning the towers. The interiors of the buildings snaked through large halls and walkways. Most of the passersby were shocked to see an orc in their district, although his dress and medallion marked him as a messenger for the vaunted House Cannot. Guardsmen knew better than to accost someone on business for the family responsible for stocking their arsenal. After much travel, Terminal made his way to a gated mansion perched on a floating platform. In spite of gravity, the platform appeared held up by a narrow arch of stairs too weak to hold its weight. The gleam of a white crystal emanated from its underside, and Terminal could sense the presence of magic within it. An Even maid stood in the main foyer of the mansion. “Lady Chorus, we have a messenger from House Cannot. He wishes to discuss matters of business with you.” A soft, throaty chuckle purred from 'Lady' Lucille Chorus's - Or rather, just 'Lucille's' lips. Her feet arched high on heeled boots, the luscious adventuress ran gloved fingers through her glossy brown hair... Styled into intricate loops where they fell to her shoulders, her crimson eye narrowing ever-so-slightly; Beneath the silver eye patch she wore, there was a faintwhirringclick, as the mechanism that replaced it cycled in counter-clockwise arcs. "Right on time," she drawled... Her full lips curling in a slow smile, one hand perched on a curvy hip as she turned to the even maid. For an experienced troubleshooter like Lucille -A free agent, as she called herself, thoughmercenarymay have been a better word - the City of Towers was the place to be. As they say, there are a million stories in Share... And every one with the potential for profit. Even now, Lucille couldn't help but be amused by the title; She wasn't a Lady by birth, not really - Everything she owned had been purchase with the spoils from her last *big* score, the doomed expedition to the Lightless Depths... Which had ended in death for many, and wealth for the survivors. Still, it'd left her with a sense for both profit *and* danger - Both of which were informing themselves on her senses, now. Whatever this 'messenger' was carrying: This would be Abilene."-I see," Lucille answered, with a polite little dip of her head - She had an air of perpetual amusement, one accentuated by her rather eclectic outfit! Where long dresses were the fashion, for upper-class females, Lucille wore a figure-hugging white bodice - Cut to leave her slender but strong arms bare, with a deep, plunging neckline that half-revealed the rounded tops of her full bosom. A duster accentuated her long, coltish legs, ending in tight red-brown leggings, seemingly as sheer at stockings; Something else that would've been *scandalous* to the nobility. Supple leather *creaked* as she moved, clinging to the curve of her perfect ass - Her anticipatory smile lingering on her lips, shading to thoughtful consideration. "I'll be meeting him now, then; No time like the present." With a casual grace, she adjusted the sword belt at her hip - Her long, straight sword clinking softly, as Lucille held it out of the way; Affecting a sultry stalk, almost a swashbuckler's stagger, as she made her way along the halls. She spared a moment to glance over at the glass-panel windows, for vanity - Ensuring that her lissome form was poised *just so*, to maximum effect, drawn taut against her figure-hugging costume! "Tell our guest that I'll be meeting him in the lounge - I have a feeling that he'd appreciate the hospitality." Oh yes, this was going to be an interesting day indeed... And it'd only just begun.(Lucille Chorus: "As you wish, my Lady." Torrinal briefly paced around the guest room. The coat of arms on the shield hanging over the fireplace in particular perplexed him; the image of a silver dragon flying over a green field normally suggested allegiance to the nation of Throne, but no self-respecting devotee of the Flame would display two sets of scaled Karachi armor just below and to the sides. He figured that the mansion's occupant was one of the nouveau riche, of one who had come into money without years of experience in the courtly arts." I hope you find the lounge's accommodations to your liking." Torrinal turned to meet the maid who greeted him earlier. "It's very comfortable," he said. "I ask this with all respect, Alissa, but I was wondering something about Lady Chorus. To what family does she owe allegiance? Forgive my manners, but I cannot tell whether she's Dragon marked or knighted by the Guitars."" Lady Chorus is neither. She came into wealth through years of adventuring across Hovered. She always displayed great fondness for Share; she often spins me tales of her expeditions and journeys, but the City of Towers always had a place in her heart. To a life-long resident such as I, the floating spires and bustling throngs of visitors from across the Five Nations become a mundane feature. But when I hear of her speak of my city, it rekindles in me a spark of wonder. Until I met her, I never knew how the neighborhood of Aura rebuilt itself upon the ruins of their old homes left by the War of the Mark, or how the college community of Upper Men this pooled together to save a failing theater from closing. Hearing of these tales of community makes me feel like but a stranger wandering into a new land in a city I thought I knew." Torrinal smiled upon hearing Alissa's speak of Share in this new light. He ran a hand over the griffon insignia on his red tunic, wondering if Lady Chorus might find some unknown tale of its history. The side door to the chamber opened, and the one who could only be Lucille Chorus walked in. The sight of her took his breath away. Her dress was nothing like that of the prim and proper ladies of the Upper City. His eyes wandered over her form, tracing the smooth curve of her legs up to her prominently displayed breasts. Lustful thoughts entered Terminal's mind, at which point he realized what he was doing and quickly turned his face upwards to meet her gaze. He mentally admonished himself for being weak in that one moment." Greetings, Lady Chorus. My name is Terminal Kerri's; I come to you delivering a message from Matrix d'Cannot." He took a letter out of his pants pocket and gave it to her. Dear Ms. Chorus, The Dragon marked House of Cannot seeks your services in a matter best suited for your veteran talents. I believe through the sources of credible agents that the Crown of the Undying, a unique magical artifact, is in this very City of Towers. Scholarly texts and even legends describe it as being crafted by the Elves of old in their rebellion against the giants of ancient Men'drink. It is no secret that thousands of ancestral heirlooms make their way from the Cyclops ruins of that far continent into the bazaars of Share, and in most circumstances I wouldn't place much credit on the latest tales of legendary treasures found in curio shops. But the current handler of what we believe to be the Crown is being very secretive as to who knows of his possession, and who he'll sell it to. Multiple factions would jump at the chance to obtain this Crown, mostly through force and treachery instead of honest bargain. We believe that the merchant's name is Reginald Cyrus, a human male of middling years and a rotund frame who lives in the Residential District of Broken Arch in Middle Aura. Normally he sets up a stall in the Bazaar before returning to his home after business hours. Find out if he has the Crown or knows of its location. If you find the Crown or information regarding its location, venture to the alley behind the Shrine of Surgeon in the neighborhood of Hope's Peak at midnight. One of my contacts will approach you, disguised as a vagrant asking for coin. I will grant you 1,000 pieces of gold up front, 20,000 when you return the Crown to one of my agents. Regards, Merrix d'CannithContained within the letter was banknote for 1,000 pieces of gold, signed to Lucille Chorus by Matrix d'Cannot. Torrinal shuffled his feet. "So, that's that, then. You'll take the job, right?" He hoped that she'd simply say yes and not inquire any further; Matrix was particularly obstinate that he did not reveal any more than absolutely necessary. When the Lady herself sauntered into the lounge, the messenger's appearance was enough to make her arch a slender eyebrow: An orc - Certainly not what she'd expected, when it came to a House's courier! Her creamy skin tingled, as she felt his gaze slide up and over her luscious form... Her smile widening, *just* a little, a playful glint to her eye!" It's a pleasure to meet you, Terminal," she answered - Her voice a low, rich purr, flashing him a fetching smile as she closed the distance in a casual saunter; Receiving his message with a flourish, as she dipped her head in a little bow. "-Mmm, it's rare for me to get visitors... Especially *handsome* ones. Please, take a seat - Make yourself comfortable." Paper unfurled, with a soft crinkle - Lucille's eye flitting over the text, as she read through it... Her full lips pursed, her brow ever-so-slightly furrowed in thought. "Most interesting..." she mused aloud, almost to herself - The gears in her mind turning, as she adjusted the patch that concealed her mechanical eye. The Crown of the Undying...an artifact she'd only peripherally been aware of - One of the great treasures lost even *before* the ravages of the Last War. And for it to turn up *here*, of all places... That was a delightful coincidence, indeed. She'd been in semi-retirement for the past year: Well, perhaps 'retirement' wasn't the right word - The life of the idle rich ill-suited herself. A thousand gold up-front, and twenty-thousand later... That was a princely sum. Certainly more than she'd be used to, for a relic like *this*! Lucille's tongue darted over her full lips, a soft chuckle teased from her throat - Folding the letter away, casually, as she turned her attention back to Terminal; Aware that he'd been trying so *very* hard not to be watching her response... Or watching her, period!" I'll do it," she said, lightly, tapping the letter against the tip of her pointed chin - Feeling a familiar fission of excitement coursing up her spine. It was so *hard* to resist the urge to giggle at Terminal's clear relief... She let him breathe easily for a moment more, before Lucille went on! Her boots tapped patiently against the floor, as she glanced over at Terminal, still smiling; "... So, what *isn't* your employer telling me, handsome~?" the Lady inquired, playfully - Slim fingers stroking through her chestnut-brown tresses, brushing stray strands of hair back from her lovely features in a coy gesture~! Terminal swallowed nervously. "It's standard procedure, my Lady. The stakes are high, and many things could go wrong. Not to say that the House doesn't doubt your talents; there are numerous means for enemy parties to discover my information. Mind detection, crying, stealing the letter; Matrix took great risks in simply writing out the letter." He took a seat down on the couch, taking a small glass of cider from Alissa's tray. A part of him felt guilty for withholding information;what if it could help save her life?he thought. Surely Matrix will not object to giving Lady Chorus an advantage in the Crown's retrieval. But it will compromise my role as a messenger if I say more than is necessary. The idea of her meeting some horrible fate upset him, especially if he had the ability, however indirect, could avert this. He took a big gulp of cider, finishing the entire glass before setting it back down on the tray." I'm just saying this hypothetically," he said, "but in these past days such concerns seem more and more genuine. Certain political groups in the nation of Adrenal are opposed to what they see as the 'plundering' of Men'drink when it concerns the legacies of their ancestors. Archaeological efforts are viewed as tomb-robbing, while Dragon marked expeditions meet with mysterious mishaps. I don't mean to sound prejudiced, but I'm particularly concerned about certain Dragon marked Houses, one a reactionary Even league would turn to ensure that no foreign hands graced their perceived birthright. All theoretical, of course." Aldissa gave a feigned cough. "Charlie and Tyranny." Torrinal gave her a shocked look." You have no need to worry, I have no loyalty or past ties to them, and I've made sure to mask the room with anti-divination measures."" Contrary to whatsomemay believe," Alissa continued, "the Even houses aren't bound to the whims of Adrenal or Calendar or any government for that matter. They would be the first choice for the xenophobic elements to hire for cloak and dagger missions, but the Houses' first loyalties are to money and economic dominance and not to racial jingoism."" This is still in the realm of theory," Terminal insisted. "And it's possible that the Houses might not even be aware of its presence." He turned back to Lucille. "My Lady, every moment we linger puts the Crown further out of our grasp. I promise that Matrix will tell you what's absolutely vital to your mission in due time." Lucille nodded, thoughtfully, aware of the meaning of his words: Well, things just got rather more complicated. Still, as they said: Competition makes things *that* much more interesting... She pursed her lips, settling into a seat - Her long, lovely legs crossing with a tight *scrape* of leather, as she sipped at a flute of champagne. "Thank you, Alissa," Lucille murmured; Leaning forward, to better regard Terminal! Something of her playful air still lingered - But her expression was serious, now. After all, this *was* business..." Thatisrather helpful," Lucille demurred ~ A glint in her eye, as she made an idle gesture; Slim fingers curling casually, as if beckoning for him to go on. "I'll be frank, Terminal - I'm certainly intrigued. But-" and she held up a warning finger, to forestall his words - "... I've found that it's the smallest details that matter. If I'm going to retrieve the Crown, I'll need to knowable can... Not just what your employer is willing to disclose." Her lips curved in a crooked smile, as she rested a hand against her cheek - Her pose coquettish and curious at once, the wineglass dangling in one hand! "-After all... We'reason the same side, aren't we~?" she mused aloud, toying with the glass; "... Surely there's no need for secrets between us~?" Terminal couldn't tell whether it was his lust speaking to him or his guilt sending her into danger, but he felt the urge to depart with his secrets. "You certainly make a persuasive argument, my Lady. I'll tell you what I know of Cyrus and potential threats, to minimize potential risks and help you on your way to obtaining the Crown."" Reginald Cyrus is a self-described 'Historian' and regularly buys antiques from adventurers back from Men'drink. Lots of the stuff is mundane, such as the discarded fragments of temple pillars or the grave dirt of Giant tombs. When he thinks he's made a big score, he'll put the word out on the street for interested buyers. He's got customers among the adventurers of Clifftop, and pays protection money to the Boomer Clan to prevent beggars and thieves from harassing him. Normally the relationship between organized crime and Bazaar merchants is mutually beneficial, yet things can turn bloody if the merchant's discovered to be holding out on his protectors. He hasn't sold the Crown yet, to our knowledge, but keeping a priceless artifact relatively secret is going to send the Clan into hysterics if they find out. They'll certainly think that he's trying to avoid their 'protection tax' to make a lot of gold. Mark my words, the Boomers a ruthless. They'll sooner kill Cyrus and sell the Crown themselves than believe his story."" And if you know, then they'll know as well," Alissa added. "If not eventually, but it's inevitable."" But there is one good side to the story," Terminal quickly added. "If the rival crime syndicates find out, it will spell chaos for the Bazaar and create a gang war. This is bad for business all around, and the Boomers will try to suppress word of the Crown getting out. Houses Harlan and Tyranny won't be so merciful; the Bazaar has less prominence among them, and they'll use the bloody confusion as cover for assassinations and theft." Torrinal stood up and walked over to the nearby window. "So the likeliest foes you'll have are the Boomers and the Even Houses. Hopefully only one, and optimally none at all. Reginald is in over his head, even though he's very aware of the risk the Crown entails. I will also need to tell you the Crown's description, if the worst happens, and it falls into enemy hands. I'm only going on legends and folklore, though. It is said to be 'wrought of gleaming silver, shining brighter than all the stars of the night and the fires of Khyber's breath. It has a single ruby in the center, a clear transparent red said to hold the accumulated lifetimes' knowledge worth of Even Lords.' Judging by this last description, the Crown would give off an aura of divination magic if one were to detect its aura." He then paced to the fireplace. "Other than this I know little. My information was obtained through contacts instead of personal experience. I'd suggest you toss the letter in the fire to be utterly consumed, once you've committed the important bits of the letter to memory. I'm glad that I now told you this, even if it breaks protocol. Furthermore, I've read of your exploits in the Kornberg Chronicle, and know that you've been through far worse under less favorable conditions. Furthermore, I can now say with eagerness that you'll make House Cannot proud." Well, now; It seemed that Reginald had bitten off *rather* more than he could chew, to put it mildly! It was quite likely he didn't know the true worth of what he held... Or at least, the worth that would make people willing tokillfor it. "You're right," Lucille mused aloud, rising to her feet with casual grace - Her eye narrowed, a decisive note to her voice! "-Therein time to waste. You've been *very* helpful, Terminal - Rest assured, this will stay *just* between us." She tipped her head to the side, nodding to Alissa; "Alissa, please show our guest out. I have...preparations to make." And she'd make them *indeed*. Once she was out of the room, Lucille would spend several long moments in her private armory, suiting up - And subtly 'dressing down' at once, trading her current costume for a form-fitting leather jerkin, slipping a dagger into each boot. She buckled her belt around her slim waist - So that it balanced her sword belt, exchanging her ornamental rapier for a rather more familiar long sword... The sheath unornamented, though the half-faded symbols etched into the surface, the way the grip comfortably molded to her hand, told of long and familiar use." The Bazaar, Hamm~?" she pondered aloud - Buttoning up the soft fabric of her blouse, stiffened with hard leather panels... It wouldn't do to look *too* armed, after all, but experience had taught her she'd best be ready for trouble~! With a flourish, Lucille brushed her brown hair back from her lovely features - A tricorn hat perched a jaunty angle, as she regarded herself in the mirror... Before nodding, satisfied. It'd been a while since she'd gone down in person... It was making her rather nostalgic! She'd head there first, then - After all, she was rather looking forward to meeting Cyrus! The Bazaar The sounds and noises of the district were overwhelming. Hordes of people crowded around market stalls and tent pavilions, bidding, haggling, and arguing over all sorts of innumerable trinkets. An old Orc lady sold cages of exotic birds alongside a family of Even glassworkers displaying their handiwork to passersby; down the road and around the corner came a fleeing goblin pursued by a trio of watchmen. A lone Halfling sat upon a stack of crates overlooking the square. He took a final bite out of his apple before throwing it to a nearby beggar. Where is he?!he thought. Reginald’s too stupid to know how to get scarce on us! Someone must be helping him!“Any luck, boss?” A big, burly War forged exited a nearby tent and approached the Halfling. A desperate salesman ran up to the construct with several jars of what could be potions, but he got pushed to the ground for his troubles. “I’m not buying!” he roared. The Halfling shook his head at his partner’s lack of finesse. “Remember what the Don said, Gear; no roughing anybody up unless they try to fuck with us!” Gear looked over to the salesman, who was now fleeing down the street. “The bastard was annoying. We’re with the Boomers, we shouldn’t have to put up with this bullshit.” The Halfling jumped down to the ground next to Gear. “So, what did you learn?”“I checked with the watch’s records of stall permits. Nobody remembered selling anything today to a guy named Cyrus. And nobody’s seen him at his house in two days. What do you think’s going on, Stalin?”“I think someone’s got him: I noticed some real weirdos looking around for him as well. Think they were some foreign types, judging by their accents. Dressed in all black, bearded.”“I did notice some else asking about as well; a female human, or even maybe, is checking out Cyrus’ typical places. Looked to be lightly armed as well, by herself.”“Why didn’t you tell me this earlier?!” Stalin said, gritting his teeth. “She could be anywhere by now.”“Sorry boss, let’s go there right quick like!” Tavlin and Gear made their way into a half-circle of small tents. A lady in a jerkin with long brown hair was talking to a fishmonger. “There she is,” Gear said. “She’s not one of the Bazaar’s regulars, and she seems to know Cyrus. How do we approach her?” Tavlin ran his fingers over his holstered hand crossbow. Could this be Cyrus’ new squeeze?he thought. She’s way out of his league! He ran his hand over his holstered dagger. “Here’s the plan; we’re going to approach her, talk to her and see what she knows. If she plays dumb or is uncooperative, we’ll take her. We take her to a Boomer safe house, send the word out that we’ve got Cyrus’ girl. He’ll have to come out of hiding then!” The pair walked over to Lucille. “Say honey, what brings a girl like you to the Bazaar?” Stalin asked. “Heard you know Reginald Cyrus. We’re business partners of his, and we haven’t heard from him in quite some time. Know anything?” The Bazaar was - As always - a noisy place, full of exotic smells and bright colors and the calls of salesman from each high-racked booth. You could find nearly *anything* here... Anything, apparently, except where Reginald Cyrus was. Her feet arched high on heeled boots, Lucille made the rounds - Chatting casually, but making the occasional inquiry. It was just as Terminal had said; He didn't know the sheer amount of trouble he was in! At least he'd gone to ground, for now - So she didn't have to worry about him getting his throat slit - but it was making it *just* as hard for her to find him... She was talking to a fishmonger - Her attention diverted by the silver flash of the fresh pike he'd hauled up from the bay, mere hours ago - when Lucille realized that she wasn't alone. It was the weighty tread of the War forged that drew her attention, first; After all, it was pretty hard to miss muscle like that. The halfling, though, was the one who make the palms of her hands itch... That was the brains of the pair, and immediately the more dangerous one. It seemed like she'd drawn notice to herself... She straightened, turning with casual grace; One hand on her curvy hip, coincidentally close to the worn hilt of her sword as she flashed Stalin a fetching smile. "Hello yourself, handsome," Lucille drawled, her voice low and honey-sweet... A momentary flicker of interest in her eye, the lazy smile lingering on her lips. Her poise was casual yet provocative at once ~ Curling a stray strand of russet-brown hair around a slim finger, as if preening for him... Before she chuckled, a throaty sound. "I *wish*," she said, shaking her head. "-I've been looking for him, myself... He's been holding my last score for 'appraisal', and I haven't seen him since. The pieces were worth some *good coin*, too; I should've gone with the first offer." Lucille let her voice trail off, clasping her hands behind her back - A playful motion that drew attention to the full swell of her breasts, as she looked the twosome over. "-I'm Elise, by the way; Elise Strasbourg." She canted her head to the side, to regard them sidelong... Sounding faintly quizzical, beneath their regard. "And you would be...?" Stalin chuckled. The thought of Cyrus bragging about a rare treasure to a pretty lady was right up his alley. "The name's Stalin. I represent the interests of a merchant conglomerate of Talent business owners; they've got contacts all over Share, from House Osasco to the dockworkers' union." Tavlin gestured to Gear. "Now my friend here, get this, once served in the Cyan military. Very sad state of affairs, you know, with the whole Last War and all that. Most of the people of Care now live in refugee camps; they must hold onto anything of their old country, be it things like memories their culture and folklore, or something as physical as a diary of a peasant girl or the signet ring of Lady Amelia."" Cyrus promised us some Cyan heirlooms," Gear said. "Taken from the spell-scarred ruins of the cities of my countrymen. And now he disappears on us, with no explanation. I hope he wasn't thinking of reneging on the deal; our wounded national pride has made us very short-tempered to people who mock us." He cracked his metal knuckles for emphasis." As you can see, it would be in the best interests of Cyrus to come clean and give us what we want. He'll be known as a friend of Care, earning him goodwill among the refugees. And it will be good for me, as it opens up a market to them. It's win-win all around. Now you seemed to have met him recently; it would help if you told us where he was." "MMM-hmmm; I see," Lucille murmured; She folded her arms over her chest, as she made the appropriate noises. "-Well, I'm sorry for your loss, but... I don't know where Cyrus is, truth be told - That's why I've been asking around for him." Her slim shoulders rose in a shrug - "I haven't seen him for days, and I have no idea where hecouldbe; Your guess would be as good as mine." She gave a little shake of her head - "I'd love to help you fine gentlemen, but... I wouldn't know where to start~!" The lovely swordswoman smiled - Sympathetic but understanding at once. Of course, she was well aware of how the mood was changing - Any moment now, things might get unpleasant, and fast. "I hope you have better luck than I did.... Though I'Loreto have a drink with you sometime, Stalin." As she spoke, she drew back a little closer towards the fishmonger's stall - Next to a pot of scuttling crabs! If this went bad, she might have need of a *speedy* way out... Though she didn't want a brawl *here*, Lucille had the feeling that they wouldn't be *quite* as civic-minded! Stalin frowned. “I wasn’t born yesterday, Elise. I know that you know something about Cyrus that you’re not telling us. You think that we didn’t hear about his big score, or find it odd that his absence from the Bazaar at this time isn’t some misunderstanding? No, he’s trying to shortchange us, and the Boomer Clan doesn't take kindly to swindlers!” Stalin put special emphasis on the crime syndicate's name. Tavlin and Gear both began to walk towards Lucille. “If you don’t talk, we’ll make you,” Gear said. “The city watch will look the other way, so don’t think about crying for help.” Well, that confirmed things. Theorizer Clan, Hamm? It seemed like Terminal had been right, after all. As the duo closed in on her - The mismatched figures of the War forged and the Halting would've been amusing, if it wasn't so deadly serious - Lucille put a hand up, favoring them with her most fetching smile!" Now, boys, there's no need to be hasty," she said, with every appearance of being reasonable...-And *then* her other hand came around from behind, emptying a tin bucket full of snapping crabs over Stalin's head. They were Piccard, snapping monstrosities - None too happy to be woken from their dank slumber - and she could hear their claws snapping, as Lucille whirled, vaulting the stall in one smooth motion! Slippery silver fish went flopping against the cobblestones, twitching in confusion... Her boot nearly skidded on one, sending her stumbling, but Lucille didn't slow! The lovely swordswoman wasalreadyrunning - Her brown hair fluttering in her wake, as she took to her heels. She could hear shouts from behind her, the commotion from the sudden disturbance... Though she knew she'd only distracted them for an instant, to find better ground to fight! Rough-and-tumble was one thing... But with the City Watch looking the other way, things could get *very* interesting indeed. Still, she'd settle for *just* getting away... Though given the heavy *clank* of the War forged's footfalls behind her, the muffled swearing Lucille left in her wake, they'd be after her in moments. There was a *crash* as Lucille shouldered over the stacked cages of a poultry store; Chickens taking flight, in squawking confusion, one hard blow from her sword hilt toppling the tent pole - A heavy tarp tumbled down from above, as she leapt over an alchemist's cart... One hard boot sending it rolling back towards Kaylin and Gear, the volatile concoctions fizzing and bubbling as they rattled and swayed! The fishmonger let out a wail as he saw his prized merchandise unceremoniously knocked onto the ground. Stalin screamed in pain as the swarm of crabs covered him; the clinging, scuttling creatures slashed and grabbed with their claws at his skin and clothes. Gear tried to grab handfuls of crabs off his partner, but his bulky hands served as more of a hindrance and further angered the creatures."AFTER HER!" Stalin shouted. Gear charged forth and knocked the stall out of the way. His heavy feet smashed against the bodies of the dumped fish, coating his legs in slippery guts and sending him off-balance. The war forged's heavy body worked against him as he fell forward onto his knees. Stalin, now free of crabs and covered in tiny cuts, vaulted over the fish and ran past Gear. "Keep up, dammit!" The gangsters had less trouble keeping track of their quarry than keeping up with her, as the chaos she left in her wake and the crowds of confused people served as easy points of reference. Stalin finally got a bead on Lucille as she briefly slowed down upon entering a tent which shortly fell apart and sent chickens flying. The Halfling wickedly smiled and drew his hand crossbow from his holster. Loaded with alchemist's fire, the glass-tipped arrow projectile would set aflame anybody caught under the tarp. He took aim and fired in Lucille's general direction as a cart came tumbling out from the cover of the tarp and towards him. The bolt smashed open the beakers and glass tubes upon the cart, setting it ablaze in a fiery storm of multicolored flames and smoke. Stalin attempted to dive out of the way, but the cart was too fast and overtook him. Gear was too slow to get out of the way, and the cart's course of destruction halted as it smashed against the War forged's frame. Lucille noticed that her pursuers were too far gone to continue chasing her, as evidenced by the screams originating from the pillars of smoke one block down. A hooded figure in a black cloak looked on the safety of a tower wall overlooking the Bazaar. He hung from the foundations with but a single hand, gripping nothing but a smooth expanse of brick. Distracted by the noises and confusion, nobody below noticed him as the coloration of his cloak changed to match the background. Looks like somebody's stirring up trouble in my neighborhood, the figure thought. Yet she's no ally of the Boomers. Perhaps she can be trusted wit this information. The figure crawled upon the wall, trailing Lucille, until the vertical surface ended near a tunnel. He dropped to the ground nearby her. The brief swish of his cloak revealed the red emblem of a scorpion on the back of it." Your friend is in more trouble than he realizes," he said to her. "It's a rare soul who can earn the ire of the Boomers and live for so long." His cloak rolled around his frame, large enough to easily hide any movements of his limbs below, while a scarf below his hood concealed his entire face but for his eyes. He seemingly glided over to the side of the tunnel, concealing himself behind a nearby wagon, so nobody near the tunnel's entrance, but Lucille could see him." I can tell that you and the Boomers are working at cross purposes," he said, "and I've long prevented their deprivations from spreading into any further neighborhoods. I can help you find Cyrus, but I need a guarantee that whatever business you have with him will not strengthen the gangs of duras." When the fiery bolt hit the alchemist's cart, Lucille heard aWHOMMMMPPPH- Then scorching heat coming from behind, giving her a very hard, very *hot* push as flames licked up into the skies; A glance back told her, between the burning tarps and plumes of smoke, no-one would be following her in the confusion~!" Haaa, haaaa~" she panted, slowing down at last - She'd sprinted down alleys and crisscrossing streets, putting some distance between herself and the confusion. "So much for *that*," Lucille murmured, straightening... Only to whirl, when she heard a faint metal-on-stone rasp! She wasn't alone. Her crimson eye narrowed, Lucille's slim fingers coming to raise her patch - Revealing the complex mechanism that replaced her right eye, cycling through infravision, dark vision, magic-detecting sight... Ah. Was that - No, it couldn't be...?" Scorpio?" The lovely swordswoman's voice was hushed, low - Her brow furrowing, as she put a name to the enigmatic figure at last. Even with her enhanced vision, it was hard to *see* him, truly - He made every shadow his cloak, moving with a fluid, effortless grace that told of incredible skill. She'd only heard *rumors* of the vigilante that haunted the streets of Share... But from the way he moved, the rumors were true. Slowly, not taking her eyes off him - Resisting the urge to reach for her blade - Lucille nodded, slowly... Relaxing ever-so-slightly at Scorpio's words. "-I'd appreciate that," she answered, the ring of truth to her words. She pressed one hand to her full bosom, just over her heart; "I promise you: I have absolutelynointention of helping the gangs, whatsoever. And if they're after what I think they're looking for... Finding Cyrus first will upset their plans to no end." Lucille flicked her glossy brown hair back from her lovely features - Shifting her stance slightly, with a faint *creak* of her leather leggings, as she tilted her head to the side."... Where's he holed up?" Scorpio deeply exhaled. "The Fiery Minx, a high-class gentleman's club in the district of Firelight. Most establishments make extensive use of the Ghost bane vine, a highly sought-after breed of plant which blocks crying, ethereal intrusion, and all manner of magical espionage. In addition to providing the utmost privacy for its patrons, the buildings serve as great places for people to hide." Scorpio looked over his shoulder. He apparently did not see anyone, as the people outside the tunnel noticed neither him nor Lucille. "I'd be careful if I were you," he said. "It's easy enough for a female to remain inconspicuous in Firelight, but the Tyrants gang has a hold over much of the district. Entertainment is in constant demand, and the clubs are always eager to add additional help. You might be able to infiltrate the Fiery Minx by posing as a dancer, or convincing the owner to hire you on as a bouncer. If Cyrus is there, he'll probably be enjoying himself in one of the private rooms in back." He takes out a piece of parchment and runs his hand over it, causing writing to materialize. "This is a map of the Minx. Commit it to memory, and destroy it once you're done; you do not want to give the Boomers or Tyrants any more leads than absolutely necessary." A quick, tight-lipped nod was Lucille's only answer - As it turns out, it wasn'ttall just fun and games. "The Fiery Minx, Hamm~?" she echoed, absently - The mechanism that replaced her left eye cycling, clicking, as her gaze flitted over the map; She'd memorize it, with the instinctive skill that'd helped her survive a dozen adventures... After all, you never knew when something - The smallest detail - would come in handy. The map wasn't the only thing she kept in mind, though - The way Scorpio had made the details materialize on the paper had caught her eye, too. Magic, or a rogue's trick? Sometimes, it was *really* hard to tell the difference. Once she was done, her slim fingers folded the map twice over, tearing it; Letting the long paper shreds curl away from her hand, dispersed on the breeze... To be lost forever in the darkness of the alley." A bouncer dancer~?" Lucille murmured - Idly tapping a finger against her chin - Before her full lips twitched in a little smile. She was certainly suited for the former... But the latter sounded less distinctive - After all, the halfling and his hired muscle would be looking for a lovely swordswoman, not an entertainer - and rather more fun." You have my thanks, then," she said - Her voice directed at the shadows, as she slipped her eye patch back into place; "... I promise I'll do my best to resolve this, with as little fuss as possible." There was an honest warmth in her voice, her brown hair cascading down her back as Lucille shook it free... Her thoughts already going to the challenge ahead~! Now, she'd just have to make a quick purchase - And then, a beeline for the club. After all - No time like the present. The downpour from earlier today began to let up, although it didn't feel that way to many citizens as the inefficient water systems of the lower levels collected rainwater in overflowing puddles to cascade down the sides of building to drench unlucky passersby. The ladies of the night stuck to awnings and outdoor pillared roofs to keep nice and dry. It was an inconvenience for the district's regulars, but locating the girls was no trouble due to their ubiquitous presence. A series of overburning torches, unmarred by the elements, hung over a sign portraying a scantily clad even woman clad in red ribbons tightly hugging her body. Even in this weather, the Fiery Minx still got a lot of customers. In the back of the building was an outdoor screen porch, where a heavyset goblin sat, smoking a cigarette as he admired the view of the towers on the horizon. A human female out to join him on the porch. "It's your shift now," she said to the goblin. Wordlessly, the goblin sat up and looked around to make sure nobody was watching. In a brief moment of time, his skin took on a pale coloration and his frame elongated until he resembled a young even maiden." Next time do it inside!" the human exclaimed. "Who knows who'll see us?" The woman who was now an elf shrugged her shoulders. "Lots of guys don't seem to care if changelings work in Firelight," she said. "They don't care as long as we look feminine and pretty."" Just shut up and get in." Well now... Lucille thought - A soft "Hamm~" teased from her lips, as the little tableau unfolded before her. Changelings... It made a strange kind of sense, for the club to beentirelystaffed by them - Though she wasn't sure fatwas common knowledge. (The woman's(?) statement had been optimistic, at best.) Then again - This was going to make her planned infiltration of the club that much easier... After all, given their fluid concepts of identity, a 'new' dancer wouldn't seem out of place~! The thought brought a wry smile to her lips, as she glanced down at her - Rather ridiculous! - costume, concealed beneath the encompassing folds of a shabby cloak. It wasn't something she'd usually wear, though a few gold coins slipped to the tailor had encouraged him to finish on short notice; A dancer's outfit, the figure-hugging leather clinging to Lucille's luscious form like a glove. Her feet were arched high on heeled boots, that went from 'ridiculous' to 'lubricious'... Strategic cut-outs revealing the creamy flesh beneath, exposing her long, lovely legs and flat belly. No wonder girls only wore thisinsidethe Fiery Minx... Anywhere else would be an incitement to riot. Her gear was gone, stashed away - Her sword and dagger wrapped in swathes of cloth, concealed within the adventurer's best friend: The Bag of Holding, just a small, faded blue pouch fastened to her garter-belt. Notthathelpful if she needed a weapon in a hurry - Still, it *was* rather reassuring to carry her gear with her. Ah, the perks of status... The only thing Lucille hadn't been able to change - not quite - was the mechanical construct that replaced her left eye... Though her eye patch was now an alluring, heart-shaped fold of pink silk, her hair combed just Soto conceal it - Enough to give the voluptuous swordswoman a tempting, mysterious air~! Once the door had closed, Lucille waited - Counting silently, to a space of thirty breaths - before she crossed the distance on her high-heeled boots, curvy hips swaying... Stealing into the rooms beyond with a casual grace, walking as if shebelongedthere~! The mental map of the Fiery Minx was still etched large on her mind ~ Now, all she had to do was to find the merchant she'd been seeking...-And give him the time of his life~! A soft chuckle thrummed from her throat - The dark leather of her dancer's costume creaking, as she sauntered along purposefully... Slim fingers brushing stray strands of chestnut-brown hair back from her lovely features. Oh, she hadeveryfeeling she'd blend right in - All the same, she'd better hurry. It'd be a shame if one of the other 'girls' stole her thunder, after all... The inside of the club was lit by dazzling magic lanterns of all sorts of colors, from blue to green to deep red. The carpet below Lucille's feet was a soft pink, with portraits of scantily clad women decorating the walls. Reginald Cyrus was reclining in the corner, admiring the dancing girls onstage. A pair of elves were performing, both clad in matching red and black corsets complete with tight thongs. One had closely-cropped black hair which shimmered in the light, the other had long and dreamy blonde hair. The club was tightly packed with men, who eagerly cheered on the ladies accompanied by the toss of the occasional silver piece. In most circumstances, Reginald would be enjoying himself, right at the front and tempting the girls with his money. Such tactics almost always earned him a private dance in one of the back rooms, possibly followed with a body-to-body rub. But today he was worried, about the Boomers and other shady types looking for him. You can't be stressed out all the time!he thought to himself. Is this how you want to spend your last moments, worried sick and sweating in some dark corner?! Two of the dancing girls saw Lucille Chorus stride through the back door. They were busy applying make-up and trying on new clothes in the dressing room. "Looking good, sister!" one of them called out to her. "The Adrenal girls should be nearly done; your shift's coming up next." "I'll Brighton~" Lucille purred, with a wink and a jiggle -A giggle, sauntering *right* towards the stage; Her tight-fitting dancer's costume was *very* flattering, the voluptuous vixen's casual grace only accentuating the effect... She didn't walk, she strutted, with the wicked smirk of a naughty minx - Of a woman who *genuinely* enjoyed her work~! With professional curiosity, the lovely noblewoman-turned-dancer eyed the stage... Taking the chance to get a good eyeful of who was in the audience, as well as the writhing forms of the twin elves~! It wouldn't be long beforeshewas on the stage - And she had *every* intention of giving them a show to remember. For now, she'd content herself with thinking up a routine... And looking for Cyrus, of course! She pursed her full, pouting lips, tapping a slim finger against her chin - With somanypeople around, surely no-one would try something~? Well, theeasiestway to go about things was to offer him a 'private dance'... A nice, convenient way to make contact - But you knew what they said about the best-laid plans... Lucille adjusted the satin patch that concealed her clockwork eye - Brushing her brown hair over it, giving her a deliberately asymmetrical, alluring appearance~! She clasped her hands together, just behind her back ~ A slight arch accentuating her curves, a distinctly *naughty* excitement coursing through her at the thought of being *out there*, in front OFS many hungry eyes... The lights dimmed, and the elves bent down to pick up their earnings, giving the audience a full view of their delicious bottoms before they retired behind the curtains. Lucille came out next, and even before she did anything the patrons cheered. Her nice, curvy form and revealing outfit could makeanythingshe does look sexy without even trying. The new dancer caught Reginald's eye as well. I guess my mind's made up; I'm going to spend my last moments enjoying myself. I'll never forgive myself if the afterlife turns out to be boring! And with that, he took a new seat near the front, close enough so that he could get a clear view of the beautiful lady on the stage. When she turned his way, he flashed a few pieces of silver, discreetly enough for her to notice, but not so blatant as to attract attention to himself. He tossed one onstage, and it landed in between her cleavage. Looks like I've still got it!he thought.

The Elven Crown (Skynet & iridum248, D&D Eberron)|rating:4.0

The lost Temple of Virtue and Syn (Genbu83 and Keelan)

Over the course of many generations, the feuds of countries, and the flux if deities minor and major; secrets are born. Some such secrets speak of hidden weapons, powerful magic and lost cities. Rumors and tales give hints at the hidden wonders of old. Some of these are such, rumors, and some of these are not. Regardless of origin, truth and glory can be found. Glory is not often guaranteed, but there is always a market for truth. Pathfinders, Truth seekers, Treasure Hunters, and Tomb Robbers are the names of their ilk. Regardless of the label these are all adventurous and daring folk. Adventurers such as Era Krystal... One week earlier. The inn is crafted entirely from one flush stone or so it seems. It offers quite a comfortable temperature due to the thick stone walls and surprisingly consistent airflow. All surfaces are consistently smoothed and rounded, yet quite sturdy, while also maintaining a simple style that seems to carry the eye about the room. Light music and the scent of quality drink occupy the moving air. One odd scent literally grabs the attention of those of look for the obscure. An aging dwarf sits smoking sweet even tobacco from his pipe. Robes of Maroon cover the light armor he wears, his free left-hand strokes a silver and onyx ring in the shape of a split mask. It is the symbol of Natural, the god who created Perhaps of Desired Forms. He appears to be waiting for someone. (Info Name: Era KryskaGame: ?? Race: Human Class/Levels: Monk/3Alingment: Lawful Neutral Home: Somewhere... Description: She stands at 5'4" and weighs around 120lbs, showing that she is a great physical specimen with a leggy body, sensual curves laden with firm tautness, and a set of C-D breasts that is rare on so fit a woman without being fake (no, they're not fake either). Her hair is long and brown, her eyes hazel, and her skin a lighter golden hue naturally. She has a pierced clit, a stud going through it vertically, and she keeps her pubic hair neatly trimmed in the shape of a teardrop above her sacred treasure. Clothing wise, she wears rather little by most standards. Her top is little more than a bikini-style top, while her lower body is covered by a pair of loose, post-knee length shorts held at her waist with a sash, while her shins are wrapped with similar sash-like cloth. Her shoes are monk's sandals, which attach securely to her feet, and her forearms are wrapped similarly to her shins. Another 'sash' is draped across her body over her top, similar to an Indian sari though much less hindering (similar to Final Fantasy XIII's Character Fang's sari). Obviously, her backpack is on her back, and her pouches at her hip are held on by the sash of the sari, with the pants' sash underneath. Size: Medium Experience: 3000Next Level: 6000Basic MechanicsSpeedMovement = 40ftArmored = N/Climb = 10ft/20ft Accelerated (Non-Natural)Swim = 10ft (Non-Natural)Fly = N/Burrow = N/Astor: (18):[+4] + 0Dex: (18):[+4] + 0Int: (14):[+2] + 0Wis: (18):[+4] + 0Con: (15):[+2] + 0Cha: (14):[+2] + 0HP:24 / 24AC:18 = 10 + Arm0 + Shld0 + Dex4 + Nat0 + Def0 + Magic0 + Miscellaneous4FF:14Touch:18Partial D:21Full D:24BAB:2CMB:6 = BAB2 + STR4 + Size0 + Misc0CMD:24 = 10 + BAB2 + STR4 + DEX4 + Size0 + Misc4Fort:6 = base3 + ability2 + magic0 + misc1Ref:8 = base3 + ability4 + magic0 + misc1Will:8 = base3 + ability4 + magic0 + misc1Unarmed Strike- ACBAB2 + Mod4 + Misc0Range=N/A Type=Bludgeoning Ammo=N/Damage=1d6+4 Critical=20x2Special=Lethal Optional Kama- ACBAB2 + Mod4 + Misc0Range=N/A Type=Slashing Ammo=2Damage=1d6+4 Critical= 20x2Special=TripShuriken- ACBAB2 + Mod4 + Misc0Range=10ft Type=Piercing Ammo=20Damage=1d2+4 Critical=20x2Special= Functions as AmmunitionSkillsAcrobatics(Dex)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Appraise(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Bluff(Cha)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Climb(Str)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Craft(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Diplomacy(Cha)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0DisableDevice(Dex)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0Disquise(Cha) 3 = Mod3 + Ranks0 + Misc0EscapeArtist(Dex)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Fly(Dex)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0HandleAnimal(Cha)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Heal(Wis)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0Intimidate(Cha)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Arcane(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Dungeoneering(Int)8 = Mod2 + Ranks1 + Misc4K. Engineering(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Geography(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. History(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Local(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Nature(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Nobility(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Planes(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0K. Religion(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Linguistics(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Perception(Wis)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Perform(Cha)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Profession(Wis)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0Ride(Dex)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0Sense Motive(Wis)10 = Mod4 + Ranks2 + Misc4Spellcraft(Int)2 = Mod2 + Ranks0 + Misc0Stealth(Dex)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Survival(Wis)4 = Mod4 + Ranks0 + Misc0Swim(Str)10 = Mod4 + Ranks3 + Misc3Use Magic Device(CIA)5 = Mod2 + Ranks3 + Misc0Conditional Modifiers:+1 vs Enchantment Saving Throws Languages:Common, Diatonic, ElvenWorn Equipment Monk’s Outfitting of Resistance - +1 All Saves Kama x2Shuriken x20InventoryBackpack [Container]Dagger Potion of Jump (+10 Acrobatics)Potion of Cure Light Wounds x2 (1d6+5)Potion of Cure Moderate Wounds x2 (2d6+10)Bedroll Chalk x10CrowbarFlint & Steel Grappling Hook oz InkInkpen x210ft Chain Good Quality Lock Small Steel Mirror x2Paper Sheets x10Rations x650ft Silk Rope x2Waterskin x2Climber’s KitSackMonk’s Outfit x2 (1 Worn)Belt Pouch [Container]Alchemist’s Fire x2Antitoxin x2Everburning TorchSunrod x6Thunderstone x2Tindertwig x5Belt Pouch [Container]Potion of Cure Light Wounds x7 (1d6+5)Potion of Jump (+10 Acrobatics)Potion of True Strike x2 (+20 to Attack)Total Weight:86.5lbsCurrencyCp:Sp: 6Gp: 38Pp:Other:Feats Improved Unarmed Strike Stunning Fist Improved Grapple Deflect Arrows Improved InitiativeDodgeMobilitySpecial Abilities Flurry of BlowsEvasionFast Movement +10ftManeuver Training Still Mind Notes: Personality, she is very confident, in her self and in her abilities, and is very comfortable with herself as well. She tends to be calm, mellow, and smiling softly most often, quite pleasant to be around, but is most certainly not above using an appropriate amount of force should the need arise. Can be playful and teasing at times, it is always in good fun, and in general she is an excellent person to be around, if a bit quiet at times. Sexually, she is a lesbian, but has lain with men before such a discovery and found it to most certainly be not unpleasant. She is also rather fond of anal, enjoying the sensations it brings her. Traits are World Traveler, Scholar of Ruins The door to the inn opened with a slow creaking, revealing the figure of a woman fairly average in height, clad in white and cream sashes, sari, and pants. Era Krystal, adventurer and dungeon delver, smiling so very pleasantly as she entered the inn, her pack full on her back and no armor and some oddly shaped weapons about her. Glancing about, she admired how cozy such a place looked, and it was quite comfortably warm as well. Music was nice, drink seemed good, but something in particular caught her attention... Following the scent as she moved into the inn's comfortable depths, her eyes locking onto an elder dwarf, clad in a deep red and smoking a pipe of something quite fine and refined. She chuckled a bit, then opted to make her way over to the dwarf's location, her hips swaying just enough to catch some attention sometimes. She would stop some distance in front of him, smiling down at the sitting dwarf, one hand on her hip and the other at her side in a relaxed sort of pose." Fine smoke you have their." she remarked quite pleasantly "You wouldn't happen to be waiting for me, would you?" "It depends", the dwarf stated. Chinking of metal, rustled from under the robes her wore. Barely moving he brought his gaze to her. Gray eyes took in the human's visage. He seemed unmoved by her form, though that was typical for the Stoic dwarves. "You dress in the manner of someone seeking Natural's graces and gifts," he said analyzing her lack of additional garments. She dressed and traveled light even by adventurer standards. Dwarves though were experts in reading the special qualities in things. This one was likely not worried by peril, as she did not seem to have the heir of fool. Taking one last puff of his pipe. The dwarf looked to the monk and offered her a seat crossed from him." I am the priestesses detestable servant. Do you hear to serve her or are you seeking knowledge?" Watching as the old man eyed her up, though she knew he wasn'ttaking her up. He was stoic til the end of it, simply puffing on his pipe, but eventually offered her a seat, which she took quickly, making sure to cross her legs like a lady should. He told her he was Natural's 'detestable servant, hinting at unhappiness with the designation, and asked her her desire." Seeking knowledge, I believe, and seeking 'gifts' Morse than graces, I'd say." she replies with a smile, a bit of a smirk if you thought about it "I like to seek treasures, learn about ruins, affirm legends... and knowledge always helps with that. If you can point me towards a challenge or legend or whatnot of Natural's... why I'd be soverythankful!" She was quite sincere, and quite wanting of the challenge. She hoped the man had something for her, though if not she could easily look elsewhere for something of interest... "That's an admirable spirit", the dwarf said with the first hints of content. Dwarves were a race known for skill of arms and such. The Incarnation of Lust had little use of war, and it's way, save for those skilled enough to protect "his" followers that would not take up arms. The dwarf clacks his pipe upon the table as he snuffs off the cinders. Brushing the suit to the floor and placing the pipe in his robes he gives Era a nod. From eh robes he produces a map older than the young adventurer and then takes the ring from his beard." Knowledge is earned. With these you may learn what you desire, or find gifts of a confounding god. If you meet the priestess or catch Natural's eye, we may meet again. With a second meeting though young one, perhaps Seraph Life Iron will share tea and tales with you. For now though, I also have things I must seek for my ward", he stood, though only barely taller than the table. Politely as a dwarf could be, he awaited, should the young monk have questions or concerns. He seemed to be a bit odd for a dwarf, true he wore armor and likely was armed, but he carried himself in a more eccentric manner than what was commonly known of the children of the stone. He was impressed by her spirit, and seemed honest about it. She grinned; such praise was high praise coming from a dwarf such as he. Era watched him snuff out his pipe and produce an ancient map and a ring from his beard. A few words of advice, telling her nothing and something all at once, he stood to leave, having things to do. Sera took hold of the map and the ring from the table, and looked it over quickly before turning to the dwarf and smiling. She gave him a nod of thanks." Thank you, stone child Seraph. I'll be sure to hold you to that second meeting of ours." she says happily before untying the closure and opening the map to give it a look, also glancing over the ring to see what it was. "See that you do, and I may even ask your name," he said. Seraph checked his beard for any soot or debris. Clasping his hand to his chest in the custom greeting of his people, he turned for the door. The ring is the silver and onyx ring depicting the mask of Natural. It appears some was dense but is much too large to be a finger ring. The map appears to be a map of the area. Knowledge geography check or Knowledge History. I have neither trained, but here goes... Geography: 2 + 14 = 16"Me? I'm Era Krystal, adventurer as I've said." she replied as she looked "And this is quite a large ring, isn't it? Certainly not for a human or dwarf finger. And I guess I do have one question, if you don't mind answering it before you're off to your duties: would you care to point out a couple of key things for this map? I'm afraid I'm not the most adept with world maps, though I'm quite good with cave, dungeon, and smaller scale ones." She was a bit sheepish and embarrassed at having to ask the master dwarf such a question, but he seemed a unique sort of fellow, what with his unique gait and the fact that the dwarf was friendly, by human standards and more so by Dwarf standards. There was something else odd about him though, and she couldn't quite place it... but it certainly wasn'tbad... The map is dated. At least 300 years. Though what you recognize is that the tavern you are inn actually is built over an old well. The appears to be a shrine of some sort a quarter mile north of where you sit. Though it's in rather densely populated forest." So quick to give a name, another trait of an adventurer. Gives others something to remember them by. Though a word to the wise. Make sure you want others knowing your reputation when your name is spoken aloud", Seraph states as he looks over the map. "Though you are a humble lass, and there is no shame in that, but make sure that you learn the lay of the land, it'll save you in a fight." The dwarf speaks a bit in old edicts of tradition. Though he is very polite by dwarves standards. He's in his middle age by Era's best guess. He puts his left hand down on the map and moves it from the well to the shrine. In tones of gray and black the current map overlays the ancient one. The current trails are shown, and the ideal for traveling to the shrine seems to be thicker on the ink than the rest of the paths."don't call this divine intervention", the slightly raspy voice tells her,"but you have an hour till my alterations of the map disappear. His words were most certainly wise, fitting for a man several hundred years her senior, possibly. True, she was humble (to a point, she'd admit), it was still embarrassing to be an adventurer who was bad with maps, one's with the land's lay anyway. She would have to look into learning to read them soon, as he said it could save her ass one day. The dwarf, with but a touch of his finger, traced a path of magic along the map, and in its place not only was there a clear trail to follow, but it was a recent one, not a 300-year-old one like the map's date said, where there would be a well where she stood now. Evenshecould navigate this without a hassle, which was good because she had an hour. She stood, easily standing above the dwarf a fair height, and with a grin she put her fist to palm in front of her, bowing slightly as a means of thanks and greeting as taught by her martial tradition." Thank you again, and I believe I shall be covering the tea, and perhaps an amount of that fine smoke you had, when we next meet again." she said, trying not to be too quick with her words, and took her leave of him probably a little too fast, and she hoped he wasn't offended by her anxious nature. And so, leaving the inn, Era began to follow the map, heading for the shrine where her adventure and dungeon-delving could begin... Following the super-imposed map. Era finds that the growth of the forest has been quite healthy for the last three centuries. Finding the shrine's location leads to an exceptionally large oak. The only traces of civilization being there previously are a couple of stones that look about the right size to be road brick. Though Era does notice that the width of this tree has to be at least 15 feat. Make a knowledge nature check, a perception check, and a wisdom check (Don't have Knowledge Nature, but rolled anyway Knowledge: 2 + 10 = 12Perception: 10 + 19 = 29Wisdom: 4 + 19 = 23Following the path, fairly easy to do even with her lack of talent with maps, she eventually finds herself heading through the century-old forest. Was a fairly quick trip actually, her being faster than most people, and she did find the shrine without fail next to anenormousoak. Really, it's gigantic, and there has to be magic involved there, she figures. Era notices that the tree is unusual shaped and appears to be dead. The green it gives is actually coming from some sort of vines grown in around the branches. She can hear a low hum cumming from about 25 feet above her. But about five feet ahead. Right about where the center or the tree trunk should be. Could this tree be hollow? You may explore or ask questions. But keep the IOC in bold. (I think you mean 'coming,' as cumming is a lot more fun and sexual ^_^)She heard a sound, coming from this odd, dead sort of tree. Curious, as it sounds like someone humming, she decided to go around the tree, looking to see if there was an entrance of something. Could this be a house, a home? Hm... maybe... perhaps she should knock, whether she finds a door...(Will look for a door, and will knock on it regardless of whether there is one or not) The Tree sounds almost like a thick nut as Era knocks upon it. The certainly seems to be more on the inside of the tree. As she looks around she can not see any visible entrance. Though there are branches above her head. The sound seems the loudest on the side of the tree with the rocks. Cumming rhymes with humming which was the cause for my error, but may be achieved at some point anyhow. Making a bit of a 'hmm' noise as she finished knocking upon the tree. Hearing the sound continue as it was, but noting that it was loudest on one side, she figured that this was probably the 'thin' part of the tree. Looking up and noting the branches, figuring she could climb up there and see if it was open at the top, perhaps. In fact, that's what she does, moving back a distance and getting a running start to jump and then try to climb the tree and get to the branches up there. The sound did come from above so...(Acrobatics: 10 + 4 (Jumping) + 18 = 32Climb: 10 + 7 = 17) Era after surveying the tree makes use of her exceptional grace. Running and jumping nearly ten feet into the air kicks from the trunk of the tree and carries her momentum to the branches. The gains a foothold and holds steady as she surveys the tree. It is indeed hollow. Through dim light she can see the tree. It appears to have grown abound the structure she was seeking. As she surveys Era notices that the branches on the vine are quite warm. They may be radiating heat. Make a reflex save (Reflex: 8 + 7 = 15)She finds herself in the tree with relative ease, and was able to take a look at it. It seems to have grown around... the building that she was looking for. Hm... quite a predicament, and the vines she was in are quite warm... wait, warm? The vine starts to try and wrap around Era's wrist. It let's out a small his, but it's hard to tell if it's from the sap it excretes or the motion it makes. Several more seem to move toward the area. Sera had pulled her hand and shift her balance away due to her conditioned reflexes. Though she realizes she is practically surrounded by these vines. Staying still is not an option she would want to take unless she is interested in this fauna. Make one more reflex save, then an acrobatics check or climb check. Be sure to specify whether Era is jumping into the tree or out. (Reflex: 8 + 2 = 10 Acrobatics: 10 + 4 (Jumping) + 10 = 24, Into the tree She quickly flits away as the vine tries to wrap around her hand, making a sound that had her thinking that perhaps it was a snake instead. It occurred to her that she was still in the midst of a number of these damn things though, so as quick as she could manage she leaps into the tree from a standstill, hoping to avoid any further attempts to grab her by whatever those vines are. One vine manages to snake its way around Era's wrist. She already committed herself to jump. She leaps and the vine snaps. Furthermore, she tumbles thought branches and brambles then falls the 15 feet and lands in the rubble. Furthermore, she is relatively unharmed. Just dusty and needing to work on her high fall form. "MMMMMMmmmmm", the hum has shifted in tone slightly. Did the shifting of the vines change the not or did her proximity to a shrine of god concerned with the joys of flesh cause such a thing. Sera sees a ten-foot tall humanoid that appears to with a man and a woman. The figure is bitoned onyx and ivory. Between its thighs is an altar. Made of what seems to be shifting sand is a placard reading;Share your pleasure and your taboo with Natural to seek Fulfillment. The air inside this hollow tree seems very comfortable. Much like Era's favorite steam room. Make a perception check and then a Fortitude Save. (Perception: 10 + 18 = 28Fortitude: 6 + Natural 1 = 7 ... One of the vines grabbed her, but she was already mid-flight and the thing snapped quite easily. She landed, albeit a bit shakily but otherwise fine. Standing and dusting off her clothes, she notes a change in the hum, much louder now, and she takes note of the tall humanoid, of a man and a woman at once in each color, and between its thighs an alter. The placard she read, and it was a bit surprising to say the least. What sort of place was this? At least it was quite comfortable... The hmm sounded of a trick a gypsy dancer used trying to lull a wayward mercenary into losing some of his coin to her in the least deceitfalways. However, Era's keen awareness of her body had her realize hire twist was numbing, as was part of her lower back and left side of her waist. The numbing sensation was in an odd line. Looking upon her left arm she saw a trail of much. She realized it went over her arm and backpack and the numbing was at her waistline. Where she saw a vine that slithered like a snake but left a trail of sap as a slug left a trail. Make a knowledge heal check or knowledge nature or wisdom check and a second Fort Save. You are currently grappled by the vine with is about two feet long. (Wisdom Check: 4 + 16 = 20Fortitude: 6 + 18 = 24)She noticed that her body was slowly numbing, at least in a few spots, glancing at her wrist, mucus covering it where it was numb, and then glancing at the rest of herself to see that the vines had gotten to her, again! Dammit, she tried to tug away, trying to get out of its grasp and get to the statue where she would, hopefully, be safe. The poison appears to be a contact based light nerve agent. The skin is the only thing reacting to it. Other than slight numbing, that appears to be no harm. Akin to a leach. The vine appears to be drawn to warmth. There appears to be no other vines. Nor does there appear to be an exit to this encased shrine. Era steps up to the altar as she attempts to free herself from the persistent vine. The vine slides around Era's waist and over the front of her sari, not having ang such getting through the wist of the garment. It makes a more direct approach prodding sensitive flesh thought eh thin fabric. Make a grapple check (Grapple: 6 + 15 = 21)Luckily, it seemed only her skin would be numbed, and the damn thing was harmless otherwise in its apparent search for a warm body. Still, it was annoying, and Era, knowing it would be numb afterward, grabbed the offending vine that had just prodded between her legs and sought to tear it from her and throw it a way. You are more than successful in your grapplingSera pulls the vine with the padded section of her glove. It immediately goes fore skin as she flickers wrist to snap it taught. The martial trained human tugs the vine which has not been able to find a spot to anchor or root and snaps it like a whip to keep it from wrapping again. She proceeds to though it at the interior of the tree. Upon impact, he vine sticks to the smooth inner ring, and it coils around itself much like a snake. The skin touched by the vine's sap is still numb and there is some of the sap on her backpack, sari, and her gloves. Behind her stands the apparent idol of Natural. The placard in shifting gold reads "speak one desire and one taboo" The vine gone from her hand, though her body was numb in a few spots and there was sap upon her, Era was at least glad to be rid of the thing that had gone for her sacred flower. Turning to the statue, the idol of Natural she assumed, and she read upon the gold-laden placard it's writing. Again, she knit her brow; did it want her to give what she thought it did? She decided to give it a try." To lay with another woman is a desire of mine, and yet to many it is taboo." she said aloud as she stepped up to the placard, and two the half-man, half-woman in front of her. The golden placard ripples with the sound of Era's voice. It turns said, allow her to cracks forming a rectangular line. It looks to be some sort of device. The "MMM" sound begins again. Though it appears as if it is originating at the chests of both the figures. The placard appears to be some sort of button. Will you press it? Or investigate the hum? (Time to pull a Leroy Jenkins...) She watched as the placard shifted, solidifying and then cracking into a rectangular shape. Then the sound began again, and she looked up to see that it was coming form the chests of both beings. She was curious as to what the sound was, but she didn't see how she'd be able to check out the thing so very high up. Instead, she reached out and pressed the 'button' that had formed, though she kept her eyes on the source of the humming. The pool turns solid underneath Era's hand and indents downward. There is a low rumble as the large stone slab lifts in the form of a V. A pathway is presented to Era. A scent of summer flowers glides out as air is released unto the tree hollow. Perfume? There is dim light only showing the steps leading down into the temple. The stairs are human sized and on a path 10 feet wide with an 8 foot ceiling. It is too dark to make out any other details be the stairs and sweet scent of flowers. It begins to shift, and she pulls her hand away from the device. A stone slab begins to open up, a V shape, and a scent of heavy flowers wafts out. Quite pleasant, and yet that mysterious sound remains... Glancing up at the statue, she walks around to the other side of it, perhaps to see what is making that sound. Should she see nothing, perhaps a closer look is in order... QuoteClimb: 10 + 13 = 23 to get up and take a look there The humanoid idols are only about twice her size, and Era is easily able to scale them. She discovers that both States are vibrating slightly which is likely producing the "mmm" sound. As she climbs to the TOB of the more feminine of the two figures she can hear the hum coming from the top of the trees. It may be the air moving through the tree causing the sound, or the vines could be producing it. As the sound did start when she touched one. The vibration of the statue is quite pleasant though. Make a Fort Save (Fort: 6 + Natural 1 = 7...) Era while surveying the top of the statues of Natural realizes that she is starting to feel numb over her flower. She realizes that the Sari is not very thick being a garment made of silk. The sap has begun to seep through. Climbing up onto the statues, she sees nothing. Unfortunately, she also starts to feel nothing, right where it counted too." Shit!" she uttered as she quickly dropped to the ground and unwraps her sari, then drops her pants down to expose her trimmed sex "Gas! Stupid plant!" She reaches down with one hand, her other holding her sari up and out of the way, her pants down around her knees, and begins to touch herself, checking to see if it arm... still works. Era's sex does not appear to be harmed. Though it is slightly numb. However, as she stimulates it despite the lack of feeling, she feels that sudden gets a burst of "heat" Her skin does not burn, nor does it feel painful in any way. Moisture appears to reactivate the sap, which is quite a relieving feeling. Constitution check to avoid sweating during this hot flash Hm... it apparently still works, but it's dull. All of a sudden though, a rush of heat, and Era gasped slightly.(Constitution: Fuck, rolled a natural 1 again...) The dice do not appear to be your friend The heat and sudden warmth of her womanhood leave Era off center. As she sweats and her sex responds to the quite comfortable heat her pores begin to open. It feels quite warm all over her skin where the sap was. The Numbing is replaced with a heated in a quite stimulating temperature on her skin. Similar to the effects of heated rocks in massage, albeit some of the sensation is in the muscle. Era finds herself sweating in a pleasurable but odd manner. Your character has not taken any damaged, but may be aroused from the heat and sensations. Oh crap, she was sweating now, not much, but enough that... oh, greatnowshe's all worked up! Swearing under her breath as she moves her hand away from her loins, she finally decides to just push through it, though it was certainly very... stimulating. She brings her pants back up, and lets her sari fall, figuring the stuff can't get much worse than it was now. That done, she's lost concern for the vibration, and walks, albeit a bit more slowly at the moment, to the entrance she opened up, entering into the new passageway. The passage has dim illumination given apparently from the lightly glowing stairs. Though they are made of stone the steps give off a comforting warmth. As Era continues, a light breeze carrying the same scent of flowers continues to dirt outward. The light is only enough for the somewhat flustered adventurer to see the steps before her and hints of the walls to her left and right. It is too difficult to see how far the steps go downward at this point. However, given the breeze the temple must go a considerable way. Era's travelings into the barely illuminated depths were a mixed blessing sort. She was so very, very aroused, so very warm, but she didn't want to stop to pleasure herself; she had something to get done! She goes down the stairwell, enjoying the cooling breeze as it helps relieve her warmth and arousal some, which is quite a blessing. It looks like it's going to be a long trip though, so she simply keeps an eye out as she continues down into its depths. Step after step Era makes her way down. Leading her way by finding each step before her. She counts 144 steps as she makes her way. The floor final ending its descent. The martial artist has found her self in a large octagonal room. In the center are 18 statues. Forming a circle; twelve of the statues are engaged in a sexual activity a partner comprised of marble and obsidian representing Natural is depicted as engaging a mortal lover. Crossed from all paired statues is one of Natural alone in the same sexual pose, though without a partner. Each of the partnerless Natural's faces out to the walls of the room. Whilst the statues of Natural with partners face the center of the room. The partners are of 2 males and 4 females. A line of text rings each statue. Knowledge Religion check, Seacraft check (you may take a 20), and perception check. (Knowledge(Religion): 2 + 16 = 18, Take 20 on Seacraft Check (not sure what base value is :P), and Perception: 10 + 8 = 18)She enters into the chamber, after some one-hundred-forty-four steps in the darkness, and the room itself is large, octagonal, and surprisingly lit. She's a bit surprised to find the statues in a circle about the front of the room, well crafted in a most anatomically correct fashion and most engaged in a sexual position of some sort. She approached, cautious and wary, and carefully took note of the surroundings, the situation, and tried her best to recall as much as she could about anything that could pertain to this subject at hand... what did all of this mean?(Sorry I took so long :P) Seacraft will use wisdom for you being a monk, so the tactic approach seems appropriate. Sera notices that the statues are engaged in manners that seem to be giving the most pleasure to Natural. The the statues do seem to be enjoying themselves. Though be Natural in the more male or more female form, Natural seems to be reveling in the most beneficial positions. She doesn't know much about this god, other than Natural puts pleasure of the flesh as the ultimate expression of being. Pleasure and comfort are paramount, and the god is known for having some of the most notorious gathering of followers. The statues around the room are engaged in several sexual acts; A female performing Felicia upon Aaron, A male and Alan mutually orally pleasing one another, Natural riding a male while looking to the door, a female and Natural Laying on their sides in a very passionate spooning, Alan sodomizing a female on her hands and knees, and a female Natural receiving cunnilingus in the standing positions from kneeling female. Make a perception and dungeoneering check Era noted how the sexual positions were... focused on the image of the god; he/she was receiving the most pleasure, and the others looked to be enjoying it all as well. Seemed fitting, for a god who believed wholeheartedly in the pleasures of the flesh, and was known for comfort too. The followers, however, were far more... well known for their various... antics and practices. The acts themselves were varied and... quite interesting she noted. She approached to look most closely at the one of a female performing cunnilingus upon Natural, which with the plant 'venom' upon her body, did not help her situation at all. Her eyes also drifted to the one of the woman on her hands and knees, taking it in the ass and loving it. Again, didnothelp her situation, not tall!(Perception: 10 + 12 = 22, Dungeoneering: 2 + Nat20 = 22 Era notices that the recipients of Natural's indulgences have their hands and knees resting upon Oddly shaped tiles. The tiles are octagonal and about as wide as both of Era's hands put together. Sera notices that the statues of Natural without a partner have these as well. Each of the statues faces a wall as well. If Era is getting aroused, should any of her juices come into contact with the portions of skin afflicted by the "venom", you will need to make a will save. Could this be some sort of elaborate and highly erotic entry room? Investigating the other tiles. The ones with the partnerless god indeed seem to be pressure plates. There is a warm pulse over the room. Era notices that all the partners that the god is enjoyed appear to be in similar size to herself. She also notices that She could likely press all the plates if she conjured correctly. She does read on the plates though,"Give to Natural and pleasure and enlightenment will be gained"

The lost Temple of Virtue and Syn (Genbu83 and Keelan)|rating:3.0

Comfortably (Numb) in Love [lonlyazn x VideoKid]

(( Walters was driving through the highway finally hitting the underpass that gave way to the city of New York before him. He could feel the lights flicker over his car as the dimly yellow lights went by one over the car. He found it annoying and irritating that he had to commute to the city for his weekly meetings. Furthermore, he sighed as he gripped the leather wheel, hearing it moan under his tightening fingers. Furthermore, he hated the long minutes that it took to get out of the tunnel into the bustling city filled with life and sounds that he couldn't escape. It ringed all around him, the typical noises of a city filling his car and only echoing louder in his head. He sighed and adjusted his glasses with his right hand knowing he had a while until he could get to the building where his meetings took place. It had been only two months since the accident. He was drunk when it happened, when his car had careened out of control and crashing into the stop sign in the middle of the night. It was loud, the night still haunted him and he cursed it. It had woken up a small neighborhood where he was driving through, and he didn't like the inconvenience of the police being involved. His car was incapacitated and unable to drive away. That day it forced him to go to court, found guilty for driving reckless and under the influence. It was a cold November, the month had only started and the dull mundane change of the seasonal trees felt pointless to him. He could be careless for the city and the people at the meeting. He had to attend because the law said so, if he could, he would rather be locked away, but the only thing he cared for was his home miles away from the city. It was the last piece of anything they had owned together. He finally pulled up after battling block after block over the trifling traffic. He came to the building 113 on 5th street, a beautiful building on the outside embroidered with gold and marble. It was simply renovated, but the inside held the old hospital that once stood with its old brick exterior. The old tiling clattered beneath his dress shoes as he was walked inside. He walked pass the security barely giving him a nod and searched for the 5th floor for his meeting. He heard the elevator ding as it finally arrived to the first floor. Furthermore, he rode it up opening to the waiting room where it led to more hallways that all looked the same. He found the general waiting area for the whole floor, and he was the only one there except for someone else he didn't bother to notice. Furthermore, he looked for the corner of the room having his back pressed against the wall in his seat. Furthermore, he looked down at the floor picking up a newspaper clipping looking for anything amusing to distract his mind for the evening. Riley sat in the waiting room listening to her iPod while mindlessly surfing on her phone. It was a horrible habit of the twenty-first century, but it was a good distraction. Every Wednesday she had to come to community behavior health to meet with her psychologist, get her vitals checked and attend a mandatory drug recovery meeting. The young woman had a difficult upbringing, not really a traditional filled with positive mild-stones, there was a few, but a lot of darkness flooded most of it. Her parents were alcoholics, she had gotten out from under their care when she was seventeen living with friends until she was able to save up enough to get a lousy studio apartment in a bad part of the city, but she had grown to adapt to that kind of environment. She got tired of her phone and looked up just as the elevator’s opened to reveal a middle-aged man stepping out. He completely was oblivious to anything else happening and for some reason she was intrigued and watched him. He picked up a newspaper and took a seat. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(at him made her quickly do a mental assessment, the way he held the newspaper, slumped in his seat, the way his glasses would fall, and he would use one finger to push them back up. His blonde hair that was real, she could tell by his eyebrows. She could tell by his shadow of a beard and overgrown hair he had let himself go, but was attractive in his own way underneath it all. Then again Riley wasn’t your average girl, her likes were a little more on the spectrum of liking what others didn’t. Riley had some spark of energy to discretely rise from her chair. She walked over to the other side and awkwardly sat right beside the man. She kept her headphones in but just sat there looking numbly out, but sat close enough where their sides almost touched because he was a little bit of a bigger guy. Furthermore, she kept her eye’s forward, but could sense him stopping his action’s and looking at her. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(( Simon could see the figure moving over the edge of the article he held. He didn't bother to pay attention too closely, but the moment she stood up his eyes watched her quietly above the horizon of the paper. She was quiet, slow moving as if it was nonchalant to move from one seat to another. He decided to ignore it and look down at the paper trying to see if politics was any good, but it was nothing but same old gibberish to him. He flipped through the pages to see if any entertainment or sports would even create a second of a distraction to where he was. Furthermore, he hated that he arrived early, 30 minutes early every time as if torturing himself with the wait. He felt the presence of the girl suddenly beside him and raised an eyebrow only to himself. Furthermore, he felt the chairs bump into one another at it sent a vibration making it that much more known to him. Furthermore, he peeled back the left corner of his paper to see the girl sitting beside him, with music loud enough he could only catch a few beats here and there. Furthermore, he didn't like someone else being so close to him, he enjoyed his back in the corner so that he could have the comfort of his own personal space locked to himself. Furthermore, he tried turning back to the paper, but the music that came through the headphones was starting to bothering him more and more till he placed the paper down on his lap and gave her a stern look." Did you want something from me? I see there are plenty of empty seats here. So you must want something from me to sit so close." He ruffled the newspaper a bit in his hands trying to calm down from his anxiety. He really wished he could have been a little buzz right now to make it a bit more bearable. Furthermore, he turned more into his seat so that his whole body was facing her. Furthermore, he didn't think she was hearing him with the headphones and tapped her gently on the shoulder." Was all the other seats taken?" he gave a glare and intense stare hoping that she would just bugger off and bother another empty seat. He enjoyed the silence and the dread of waiting till the meeting arrive and was over with. He looked at the clock above her head and saw that there were still 29 minutes left to burn. Riley was listening to an older rock group. (The older man would heart beats here and there. Riley would know he was speaking to her by sensing his body moving, but ignored it, it was only when he tapped her that she slipped off headphones letting him hear the music she was listening to better. His words didn’t surprise her or catch her off guard." Was all the other seats taken?" Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(looked up at him deep brown eye’s and shrugged adverting her eye’s.“I wanted to sit by you. You looked like you could use some company.” She said matter as fact, she adjusted herself crossing her legs to one side and bent forward as some of her bangs fell out of her messy up do. She only then finally turned her music down. Furthermore, she saw him look at the clock as if in a rush or disgusted with the current situation. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide((“Why are you here?” She asked openly as if maybe being too nosy. Something about her voice was so casual, as if she had maybe been speaking to an old friend. She assumed he was not going to be as eager to answer her questions. As she combed her fallen hair back, her left forearm would be exposed showing an ace bandage (as if she had just had blood-work done. Blood work for her doctor’s to check her vitals’, make her anti-psychotic levels were balanced and that she wasn’t abusing her medicine or any others. He would also see the faint scars of her past cutting. (His mind had a sudden disconnect to the girl that was sitting beside him and asking questions so calmly. He couldn't fathom how she didn't read the situation or how carefree she was to him not wanting her around. He kept switching between her and the clock just wondering what he would do now. Furthermore, he placed the paper down as if giving up on any attempts, and maybe she might give some distraction at least to the situation. Furthermore, he always kept to himself, even at the meetings he was very much quiet and seldom said few words." A bit rude to just suddenly ask that don't you think?" He leaned over resting his head in his hands as they were supported by his elbow and knees. He ran his fingers through his own hair feeling how they weaved and fall back into place. Furthermore, he could feel a bit of guilt and anxiety coming from the center of his body. It was a physical illness that seem to know no end. He didn't want any company, felt like he was betraying a memory of her." How about you then? Since you came over here first. Why are you even here?" He sat back up straight, straightening out his shirt. He took a good look at the girl beside him. Furthermore, he could see the glimpses of the bandage and the scars assuming what she was here for roughly. Furthermore, he remembers when he had the same feeling too, he was close to doing something more than just live on with a few scars. Furthermore, he wanted to leave his body behind and wonder if there was anything afterward. Furthermore, he just knew he wanted the pain to end slowly, but he continued to survive on knowing. She ignored his first question already knowing he would react that way, but instead seemed pleased to answer his own question. She turned off her iPod completely and took off her headphones shoving them in her messenger bag and started her summary.“My names Riley Lee Smith, I’m twenty-four. I work two-part time jobs, during the week, it's at Starbucks’s and on the weekend it's at a local animal shelter. I’m here because I see my psychologist every two weeks on top of attending a drug therapy rehabilitation class for young adults. During that process I get the joy of giving them my blood and urine test, every few weeks so they can check up on me. I get to come here for free because I’m a full-time college student on Medicare.” Riley licked her chapped lips and moved her body so she was angled toward Simon who looked a little caught off guard with her story, but she kept going.“I’m the product of two alcoholics, they were careless, and my mother got knocked up. My father tried to have me killed, but for some reason, blessing or curse my mother chose to keep me. They did their best, but they're drinking only got worse as did their own relationship. I got beat, I got neglected. I ran away more times than I can remember and lived a lot of my life with friends. Furthermore, I started working when I was fourteen and finally just moved out when I was sixteen. Furthermore, I lived with friends and when I was twenty was able to save enough of my school refunds, work savings to rent a studio apartment in the ghetto. Furthermore, I’ve made it work. Furthermore, I tried to commit suicide once or two which is what landed me here.” Riley gave a sarcastic smile but toward the end it somehow turned into a flattering smile, showing she was a gorgeous young woman. One who had the battle scars of growing up in a toxic environment. He could see her putting away her headphones and iPod, as if she was preparing to give him his full attention. He really found this unwanted, but she wouldn't leave no matter what he said or did. Furthermore, he felt a little futile in any attempts for what little solace he had for his day heading into the city. Furthermore, he sat there quietly listening to her spill much of her life story in front of him. Furthermore, he was a bit shocked to see her tell such a sad tale. Furthermore, he eased up a bit being so hard on her, but he still wanted to keep his distance not letting anyone too close. Furthermore, he was more surprised that she spoke so freely not thinking or worrying, and that it was also to a stranger she just met today. He started to fiddle with his watch on his left arm, adjusting and readjusting out of nervousness. Simon felt some admiration for her to talk so openly and freely with little care. He found it a bit soothing and at the same time disgusted with what he was hearing. He didn't know what to do with it, for someone to have lived a life like hers. Furthermore, he tried to keep his calm and his stern gaze trying not to let up at all, the last thing he wanted was her to think it was alright to keep talking and hanging around him. Furthermore, he didn't want to add to his Wednesday routine which he already dreaded. The only words he could let escape from his lips, "Oh, sorry I asked." He felt a bit wounded somehow resonating with her smile which seemed to have changed at the moment. He did notice she was a lovely sight and easy on the eyes once she moved the headphones away, and she was facing him. Furthermore, he turned back trying to keep to himself, he didn't know what to say or rather he didn't want to say anything. Not to encourage her to continue talking to him. He felt though he should return some favor, "I'm here for my AA meeting. Been here for a few months now." was all he could muster. He continued to look down at his watch now for the time, he could feel it counting down, but it felt longer with only 25 minutes left for his meeting. He sighed and felt that she was going to keep him company. At the very least his consolation was that she was a cute young girl, but it only made him feel his age and how awkward the situation was more so for him. Riley listened to him tell her shortly that he was just here for AA Meetings. Somehow she believed there was more to this man’s life than him just being a normal alcoholic. She grew up with alcoholic’s and had frequently come into contact with all forms of it. She could tell something was different with this guy. He looked at his clock, and she knew he was wondering how long he would have to deal with her. She didn’t look hurt though with his first comment, of course he wasn’t expecting to hear her life story.“Yeah, I could tell you a lot more, but I don’t want to waste any more of your time.” She said shrugging it off. A man came out (with a clipboard, he was dressed as if he was a college professor and smiled seeing Riley.“Riley, you can come on back.” He said. All she had to do was see her psychologist who she didn’t mind too much, she had already checked in downstairs at the lab to give blood and urine samples and had attended her meeting. She nodded and got up grabbing her things. She looked back down at Simon.“Nice meeting you, I’ll see you around.” She said and gave a faint fake smile and headed back through the doors to disappear from his line of sight. Riley did her hourly appointment and was dismissed to finally go back home. It least today she had the day off and could rest and get some homework done before just sleeping. Sleeping was her favorite hobby with being a full-time student on top of working two-part time job’s. She left the big building and walked to catch the nearest bus stop. It took about thirty minutes once she was on the bus to her studio apartment. It wasn’t in the ghetto but it sure as hell wasn’t far from it. She had made it home for the past five years almost. On the outside, she had even put out some bushes’ and climbed up on the above firewall escapes to put lights to make it look kind of snazzy (She liked the way it looked. The inside was very small. She had used a lot of her savings to do what she could on the inside (It was like the size of a bus, but she was very little so it worked. She had friends over and probably had three people over at once which was funny. She got home and changed into more comfortable clothes (plopped on her bed. Furthermore, she ended up falling asleep and only woke hours later for it to be late, almost midnight. Furthermore, she yawned, rubbed her eye’s and woke up feeling groggy. Furthermore, she knew she had to eat and take her medication. Crawling out of her little loft bed (she stretched and headed into the kitchen to make a salad and cut up some fruit. There is a little place on top of her bed that was like a little chill out area. She climbed up there and settled in a bean bag and grabbed her MacBook. She hooked up her Mac to a small sound system and played music (surfing, she had started to gather her school work together when she realized that while in her therapy session, she was able to get her psychologist against the law tell her who the gentlemen she was sitting by. Furthermore, she bit her pencil’s and put her textbook’s down and closing her friends chat room’s she went to Face Book and type in [Simon Walters]. Naturally it brought up quite a few results with her living in the huge state of New York. She spent fifteen minutes searching through the results before she spotted him, it least she thought it was him. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(Click to Show/Hide(Click to Show/Hide(profile picture made her tilt her head in awe, she clicked on his page which was private, but she could still see his past profile pictures was a few. In his profile picture he looked so much younger, like a decade younger. He was shaved and cleaned up and laughing, with him was a beautiful woman. So he was married, somehow that made her smile. She was happy, but as she scrolled through his profile picture and saw more pictures of him and of his wife, she crossed a picture of what looked like a baby shower. She had no way of looking at his actual feed, but saw a comment that changed her night. It was on one photo of Simon holding his wife, she looked very pregnant. The comment read....“I am so sorry for your loss Simon, the baby and Rachael are in heaven right now watching you, be strong.” Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(stared horrified at her screen, her eyes were watering. So much emotion overwhelmed her, and she had no idea why another’s man loss, a stranger was doing this. She knew it must be her hormone problem on top of being on her period and dealing with new anti-depressants. She wiped silent tears, but kept looking at the profile pictures over and over. No wonder he looked so different, he was a broken man. He had lost his wife and unborn child. She sat her Mac-Book down and had to pull her knee’s together and regain her composure. Simon watched her walk disappearing around the corner with the man. He was a bit confused and felt his little quiet world was shaken up a little. It was only for a moment, and he contemplated to what was shared with him as he sat there with only minutes left until his meeting. He sat there, thinking about the mysterious girl that was so upfront with him. His mind found respite in something new, his mind fell onto autopilot with his life. The break in his autonomous thought process seem to add stimulation for him without realizing. He thought over her words and her life, how she opened up to a complete stranger for no other reason and her weird quirks to sit beside him. His thoughts were scrambled once more familiar faces of his group begin to appear through the elevators. He rose up and went into the meeting which lasted it's a typical hour. If he was lucky it would end five minutes sooner when he saw the person leading the meeting yawn and grow tired of it, just as much as he was of them. He listened to them one after another at the podium, sharing a little bit of their own story. He couldn't see himself opening up, it was too soon he felt. Furthermore, he also cursed himself for having the accident and having to take this detour out of his life to come here. It was his turn, always nearly the last one to go before it would all be over. He stood up there feeling the dim lights on his skin, feeling the temperature rise only a few degrees. He cleared his throat, "I'm Simon... This week was a long one. Being at home for work all the time, I thought about the temptation... the cabinet of liqueur constantly staring as I walk by it. Work was stressful even at home, since my home is my work place, it's become a place of stress. I really wanted to open a new bottle and pour me a cold glass, but I didn't." He threw in that last line like a cliché from every movie he ever saw. He didn't really want to open much, and he stepped down as a few applaud him for getting up there, the same one or two every week. The meeting ended, he was the first to walk out leaving no chance for goodbyes or contact with any of the members. His sentence for being guilty of reckless driving was a mere six months at an AA and a huge fine which didn't dent him so much. He was getting closer to finishing his meetings, only about three months left until he never had to come to this wretched city anymore. He was happy to be back in his car, the safety of his familiar interior as he drove home. It took him over an hour just to get on the main road which lead out west to Mountain Lake. His home was on the edge giving a gentle view to the still lake, but he was happy that there wasn't anyone else nearby as the property was quite isolated. He finally pulled up to the large empty house (where he resided. He exited his car parking in the garage and walked into the open rooms (of his house. His living room was hardly lived in even by himself. He walks by and stopped at the cabinet that helped him numb the feelings he had long suppressed, almost forgotten what it was like to feel anything else. He pressed his fingers against the cold glass feeling it chill his fingertips before he head upstairs to his bedroom (It was getting closer to 9pm as the evening settled for him. It was already dark when he left from New York, and he enjoyed the pitch black of the view from his room. He had all the shutters close throughout the house, he didn't want an ounce of warmth to come in. His home was no home, merely a house he lived in. It was always silent, not even the sounds of nature seem to pierce the silent bubble that rested in his house. He could recall the day they had signed for this house. They were planning to move in here after they had found out she was a few months pregnant. They would need a bigger space than their apartment in the city could offer. Now it was a constant reminder that it would never be filled with the sounds of her cooking, her conversation, the gentle sound of her wedding ring clinking against her evening partake of wine. He sat on the edge of the bed for a moment staring out to the only view he enjoyed, the black reflection of the lake. He closed the shutters and went to change into a blue pajamas (He moved under the covers turning the TV on to some obscure news for background noise. Furthermore, he pulled open his laptop and started his ritual after every meeting. Furthermore, he opened up a folder which stored his pictures of his wife. Now only a memory stored as pixels. He would do this every evening staring at them one by one, even taking a full minute before glossing over to another one. He always stopped at the picture of her pregnant before feeling the lead weight drop in his chest, weighing him down to sleep. Furthermore, he closed the laptop after holding onto that pain for a few hours before midnight. Turning to face the empty side of his bed, he reached out as if hoping that his arm would land on her body, as if she had never disappeared. He couldn't even remember what it was like to hold her, to feel her warmth in his palm. He closed his eyes falling asleep without a dream to disappear into. His next few days continue like it did the days before, waking up and having a simple breakfast. He headed into his office (and turned on his desktop to hear the small whirs of the fans starting up. He continued to work at his designs and systems for the companies that hired him to consult and create for them. Furthermore, he went through the mundane process of checking off what they would need, the security and protocols they would require and going about how to implement them. Furthermore, he was fortunate that he could work from home, avoiding having to contact anyone over phone, all his work processed through e-mails and voicemail leaving behind what they wanted him to do. His work would lead him finishing near the even where he went about his next routine. The evening started again as he prepared for bed and opened up that folder of hers. He glossed through the pictures, sometimes pulling out the album he cherishes of their wedding day. Feeling the leather and the edges of each picture as he flipped through them. It was Friday evening, and he could hear the phone ringing, vibrating next to him as his work was coming to an end for the day. It was odd for him to ever receive a call from his cell as he seldom gave out his number, only to family and few friends." Hello? Simon Walters."" Hey Simon. It's Michelle. I-I wanted to call about Thanksgiving that's coming up in a few weeks." Simon let out an audible sigh, ""I'm Sorry Michelle," he looked out realizing it was nearly the middle of November and his sister had reached out to him, "I won't be coming down. I have too much work for me to fly out for a few days."" Simon... It has been nearly three years since I've seen you. The last time I saw you was," she paused, feeling the lump in her throat, "was Jennifer's funeral."" I know Michelle. I'll be fine. You don't have to worry. I'll visit next year. I promise." he pressed his fingers to his forehead as if this was a nuisance to interact with his family." Ok Simon," her voice had defeat engraved, "Take care of yourself ok? I love you and miss you... Happy Thanksgiving."" Happy Thanksgiving Michelle. You have a great time. I love you too. Thanks for calling in." he hung up, place the phone down looking out through the closed shutters of the setting sun and seeing the colors of Autumn settling. He dreaded the season where the holidays would come one after another, and it only started that heavy feeling which only made him sink deeper into the cold hardwood floors. He shut down his computer and headed into his kitchen (looking to fetch a cup of water. Furthermore, he gulped down the glass as if thirsty, but never quenching or drenching out the small burn in his chest. Furthermore, he sat in the kitchen quietly closing his eyes, trying to imagine what it would be like having his wife back here.---It was Wednesday again, and he started on his drive into the city which he felt no welcome. Furthermore, he pulled up to the building walking out and up to the 5th floor again. The elevator ding and opened up to the waiting area as he moved back to his usual corner and usual seat. With a bit more than 30 minutes left until his meeting. He sat there looking for a newspaper, looking for something to distract himself again, already forgotten the events of last Wednesday. Riley had spent the rest of the week as usual, studying, working, sleeping and repeating. She enjoyed what two days off she had to normally catch up on big projects at school. The only thing that had not been usual was her dreams. Two random nights spaced apart she had what could be a mix between a fantasy and a nightmare all in one. She had dreamed about the man she had somehow become infatuated with. In both dreams they were black and white in a sense, she saw past visions of what could have been intense or emotional moments between him and his wife, then there were visions of him trying to kill himself. She would wake up in a cold sweat, panting and horrified. It didn’t always settle that she was obsessing over a stranger, and she had tried to keep busy, to try to bury her emotions. It had gotten so bad that she had started slightly abusing one of her anti depressants to knock herself out into a deep sleep. She knew her psychiatrist would ask questions and hopefully just give her some hardcore sleeping meds, that or cut her completely off which could have its up’s and downs. Wednesday had come and after showering and throwing on some comfortable loose clothes (Then she braided her hair into a half ass messy undo (and took the bus ride downtown. Riley wasn’t as active as the following week. She was exhausted and had shadows underneath her eye’s, her lips were chapped (worse from lack of nutrition and her eye’s almost looked a tint of pink from being bloodshot (Simon would arrive at the waiting room earlier than her because she was stuck down in the laboratory longer. Once they found some of her levels were unbalanced the doctor had requested more tests be done, which meant more tubs of blood. Finally, the nurse released her and she headed up to see her psychologist. She knew he was going to be concerned, she didn’t want to deal with that, but he was kind of a friend. She stepped off the elevator so caught in her own thoughts, she forgot Simon would be here. Furthermore, she sighed and held her head, feeling nauseated and turned to see him and froze. Furthermore, she gulped, but somehow in tired gaze, something lifted. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(“Simon?” She mumbled, looking at him like an anxious puppy might, then she remembered he never told her his name so that might come off as an alarm. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(( eye’s met, and she had to let out silent breath. His firewall was still active, she could feel it and sensed like a puppy would, that she should leave even though she didn’t want to. Simon could see a figure moving above his newspaper. He places the article in his lap listening to it crinkle as he did. He saw her from before, "She's... that odd one from last week." he thought. Furthermore, he could see the obvious stress in her appearance, the disheveled hear and her health seem to be nowhere near her priority. She looked like she had gone through so much since last week since they last spoke. He sat there for a moment, not one to be the first to converse, but she could hear her almost a faint mumble, "Simon?". Then it occurred to him that he never once told her his name. He stood up slowly walking up towards her, looking down at her soft eyes seeing how exhausted she was up close. He was so close that he noticed more of her bloodshot eyes and how badly her lips were dried out. Furthermore, he wanted to raise his hand grabbing her shoulders, shaking her as if why she knew his name. Furthermore, he held back as he didn't like anyone coming too close, that frustration and resentment over the years had built up inside him. Furthermore, he looked at her sternly, "Why do you know my name? I don't recall us exchanging anything more." His mind wandered off to last week, that conversation before his meeting. He was certain he never gave his name away nor did she see her attend or near any time during his meeting. They both stood there, standing in the waiting room as if in a confrontation, him looming over her fragile figure trying to wrap his mind around it. He started to feel a little uneasy standing up and seeming intimidating to the girl before him in the middle of the floor. He didn't enjoy attention and left out a sigh, "Why don't we sit down... I don't enjoy confronting a young girl, but you look like you could use a rest." He moved back to sit down and placing the article to the side. His attention was more on her this time, a little curious, but a bit of reserve with her. She felt as if she was a glass vase and didn't want to drop her, breaking whatever spirit she may have seeing her so distraught and tiresome. It was only moments before he actually got up out of his seat to acknowledge her. It made her quietly take in a breath as preparing for a huge storm. Her stomach dropped and twisted. Her face looked contorted, as if she was afraid he might just leave or act out aggressively, but she stood her ground. His words were settling, but she could sense his paranoia, and it was kind of fair for him to be that way. She gulped and licked her chapped lips, they were bleeding. Biting her lips and licking them, she let a finger wipe blood and just shook her head and saw him standing there as if challenging her, waiting for an answer, towering over her. He was taller than her when he stood which was a surprise, her head came up to his shoulders. Her eye’s begged for any sort of sympathy. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(nodded to his request to sit down and took a seat beside him taking off her backpack. She would roll up her sleeves absent-mindedly on her sweater revealing more bandages, they had taken blood from a few places. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(“I got your name from my psychologist. I kind of got it out of him. I was curious and just wanted to know your name. Furthermore, I didn’t know if we would run into each other again.” She said adverting her eye’s nervously around the waiting room.“Sorry, I didn’t mean to invade your privacy.” She mumbled looking at him carefully. Furthermore, she wiped more blood and rubbed it on her black leggings and leaned back. Furthermore, she rubbed her eye’s sighing, and leaned her head back showing major signs of stress. Opening her eye’s, you could see how red they were, her brown eye’s stuck out more looking amber. They slightly watered, but she rubbed them again.“Haven’t been sleeping to well…but yeah anyway.” She said, giving a small faint sarcastic laugh leaving out the fact he had haunted her mind, that she had dreams about him. That she had stalked his Facebook, that he had put her into an emotional purgatory, and she didn’t know what to do, she didn’t’ know if she could save herself. Simon felt a little bit uncomfortable, but he didn't want to place any more strain on the girl. He sat there listening and surprise that her psychologist would reveal a strangers name, and he would take a mental note of that later. Maybe browse around and discuss with the psychologist to see if she was someone he should be careful around. For now, he sat there listening, feeling the slight heat from her shoulder against his own, it was strange and peculiar to have someone so close. It had been a while since anyone rather since he let anyone come close to him anymore." Well, I don't think your psychologist is perfect if you could get some strangers name from him... why would he even have it anyway?" he tried to ponder why there would be any reason he would have their name. The floor was filled with a lot of counselors, and it wouldn't be so far fetch to think he could easily have access. He remembered he mentions that he went to the building for AA. He sighs some more, almost as if it was routine of him nowadays in his life. There was very little joy, and mostly attempts to numb out his thoughts. He didn't know what else to add to the conversation, he found the silence comforting every time. He tried to imagine what would keep her up so late; rounds of debauchery, possibly her medication, causing trouble at bars, or maybe just endless nightmares. Furthermore, he himself knows the terrors and nightmares that haunt him at night, mostly the void of his wife laying in bed and waking up to see her no longer living beside him. Furthermore, he could feel sweat coming from his skin, anxiety starting to build up from thinking about Jennifer at night, at this moment. The young female looked at him as it felt like he just kept pushing her closer and closer to the edge of a cliff. She looked away while holding her self and shrugged.“He’s not a bad psychologist. He’s managed to keep me alive for five years, so…” She said nonchalantly. She felt like she needed to defend him but was also getting major alarms this guy wasn’t out to make friends, that he had also been so severely damaged he was broken. Furthermore, she felt sick slightly, but forced herself to keep talking.“I made him go find out your information, I wanted your name. Sometimes you just meet people and you want to know more about them. Haven’t you ever met someone like that?” She said, knowing it should hit home already knowing his losses.“Anyway, I get the idea you don’t really want to have anything to deal with anybody. So I won’t bother you anymore.” She said dryly, she quickly grabbed her backpack and stood, her bloodshot eyes were swelling with tears, but she was trying so hard not to cry in front of this man. She sniffled, wiping her lips again.“Sorry for making you paranoid.” She whispered and started walking toward the elevator, fuck the appointment, she thought just needed to get the hell out of this place. Furthermore, she pushed the button on the elevator and stood there in torture. His heart filled up with grief thinking of what she said. It resonated a bit with himself, he couldn't shake the feeling of wanting to know more about Jennifer. They were together for over 15 years, but still it seemed to short. It felt like there was still more of a lifetime to learn her quirks, her love of life, and more importantly their daughter they would have had. It hit him hard and felt a soft blow puncture through his world. He sat there imagining what it would be like for this young girl to look up to someone, to learn a bit more out of the blue. It brought back memories he first saw Jennifer leaving a salon across the street. He only though how lovely she was, but would never imagine they would be together. Nor did he know the worst pain he would have felt in a long time. He could hear how sincere she was and felt a large shadow looming over her form. He didn't know what in her life could be causing so much stress, but he never cared enough to reach out to anyone. Furthermore, he could see the defeat and the slump shoulders in the girl, and he realized that he didn't even know who she was. Furthermore, he faintly recalls the man calling her name, and he tried to think of what it was." Hey... uh, Rachel," he felt compelled to say something at least. He felt a bit guilty, maybe it was from speaking with his sister the other evening and not even being home. It brought to mind that she was alone and had no one else to go to. His life was in a different position, not having to fend for anything, just closing the surrounding walls. He couldn't come to see pass himself for the last several years until the sudden shock of her meeting last week. He still felt harden and cold, but he didn't want to leave such a bad impression or the fact it left a bad taste in his own mouth. "Or was it Riley?" he recalls the name at last. She had pushed the button on the elevator, and it was only after a few seconds after that Simon had attempted to make some sort of willing conversation. Riley would turn briefly to stare at him as if not quite sure if she was hearing him correctly; did he remember her name? The little Bing indicated the elevator was about to open so she could escape, away from her meeting, away from the man who was someone eating away at all her emotions, away from Simon.“Yeah… Riley.” She said awkwardly, as if unsure of herself. She turned back toward the open elevator doors as if getting ready to make the decision to just leave. Simon was conflicted internally, he was at the point he was getting comfortable with things just letting it end awkwardly, but the little broken pieces of mundane started to bring back something. He wasn't sure what, but her opening up so freely, he didn't want her to think so harshly of him. He sighed almost giving up his routine of keeping to himself, "Look, I didn't mean anything by it. It's just... you could have asked me I suppose... Riley." He rubbed his hands together nervously, "You can keep me company if you like..." his words trailed off at the end, unsure of what would happen next or where this would lead to. He leaned forward resting his hands in his lap anxiously to see what she would do next. It was strange, it was a new step forward, he hadn't reached out to anyone, or even bother trying. He looked up to watch her closely and even consider having someone more to talk to. He was so distant from everyone else, but her spilling everything to him forced his hand a bit. The elevator doors were just getting ready to close as she made a step to get inside until he spoke again, this time she could feel the weak attempt at getting her to stay. She looked back and stepped back, letting the elevator close. It made a noise as it descended to the lower level without her. Now that she was staring at Simon, he would see her blood shot eye’s had swelled with tears, and she couldn’t hide them. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(“I didn’t ask because you don’t seem like the type of person who wants to get to know anybody,” she said softly with a cold tone. She made a face and wiped her mouth again. He continued to speak, and she gave a small sarcastic laugh tilting her head at him as if she might be offended, but got quiet looking around the waiting room, she looked at him again, directly in the eye’s, watching his anxious habits. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(“I need to get out of here,” she turned around to push for the elevators again, but turned back, eyeing him as if luring,“If you want to keep me company then join me….” She said almost as an offer, maybe as a dare. Her face would have captivated him, her raw emotion, not scared to let him see, but still standing her ground so bravely. The doors binged and opened again, she stepped inside, but purposely pushed the hold open button eyeing him as if demanding him to get up and follow. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide(Simon looked up at the clock and back towards the elevator entrance. He got up a bit hesitant and didn't know why he felt compelled to come with the girl. He could imagine it now, an older gentleman following around a young girl, it was weird for him every bit of the way. Furthermore, he was old enough to be her father, and he didn't want anyone outside to think otherwise of him. Furthermore, he didn't think anything more of her than possibly a distraction from life and himself of late. He walked into the elevator beside her feeling some anxiety build up and tried to give a half smile towards her. "Where are we going?" He felt lost himself in life and wasn't sure where this would take them at all. "It's pretty late..." he considered the time it would take to do anything and then drive all the way home. He didn't have anyone at home, but he made it a ritual every night to go through the pictures, the closest thing he would get to having them back in his life again. As they left the elevator he took out his cell phone calling the AA organizer letting them know he wouldn't be able to attend as a work emergency came up. He was fortunate enough that they were lenient and wasn't too upset with him not coming. He had attended every single one before so calling out once shouldn't be too big of a big deal. Furthermore, he hit outside and held his coat a bit closer feeling the winter sting in New York. Riley was almost expecting for him to decline her offer and was ready to release the “door open” button, but he got up. Her heart leapt and she took in a silent breath as he entered the elevator and the doors closed. She was shocked and looked up at him in awe until he spoke.“We can grab something to eat.” She said ignoring his comment on it being late. The elevator doors opened, and they walked out, and she watched as he made a phone call about his meeting. She frowned and would text her psychologist, he had a work phone for his clients that they could call or text. They headed out of the building into the cool November air.“Let’s go.” She she instructed and started walking in a pace, she was used to navigating the city streets of New York. They walked a couple blocks until Riley stopped and opened the door to a good-sized diner that got a lot of business. They walked into warm air, the smell of food and lots of background noise. Riley headed in front of Simon, her body brushing against his as she slid in front of him to nod to going to a booth in the back. She slid to the other side, facing Simon and took off her backpack and rubbed her hands together and curled into herself trying to get warm. Her phone went off vibrating, it was a text from her psychologist. She would check it later and watched Simon, they hadn't spoked in it least twenty minutes. Before she could break the silence a waitress came eyeing the both of them, giving a polite smile probably thinking they were father and daughter or something. Riley didn’t seem to mind and ordered a strawberry cola, and water. Riley leaned back when the waitress went to go get their drinks.“So…. Thanks for coming, I apologize. I’ve been really stressed lately with work, school and not getting much sleep.” She said telling half the truth. The waitress came back, setting down their drinks. Riley then ordered a deluxe bacon cheeseburger and fries and a piece of apple pie, she had a big appetite.“Why did you come? Are you going to just try to ignore me after we leave here?” Riley asked relaxed looking at him. He walked beside her following a couple of blocks, the noise of the city surrounding them before stopping at a diner a few blocks away. He walked in beside, happy to hear the sound of the city disappear and the sounds of clinking and the aroma of food filling his nostrils. Furthermore, he took the seat across from her removing his coat and tossing it beside him. His hands felt the cold table, and he stared across to Riley. He was silent, even tried to open his mouth, but his body never followed through. He watched her quietly, she was a bit calm, but it didn't help ease his own mind. Furthermore, he didn't know why he was sitting at some diner, skipping out on his meeting. Furthermore, he started at his hands looking down for a moment, "Maybe... I could use a distraction... just I... why Riley..." he tried to reason with himself. The waitress broke his train of thought taking his drink. "I'd like a cup of water with lemon and your strongest black coffee." giving a half smile." Sounds rough at your age... alone." his hands rubbing against one another to warm up a bit. The waitress cut into their conversation, "I'd like the country-style steak with mashed potatoes and gravy with biscuits. I'd like to add a side of broccoli and mushrooms as well." The waitress left them alone again and Riley spoke up once more." I don't know why I'm here exactly. You seem to have a pull." He didn't know why he even said that. He could see her much calmer now, holding the conversation, strange to see her holding it. "I don't know what will happen after either. I only see you on Wednesday, and I'm not actively looking to socialize," he paused briefly, "but I do want to keep in touch. I can't stand to see you going through a lot alone." he stopped talking, not sure why he was lending out a hand. He caught a glimpse of his wife and daughter just then, thinking about Riley being someone else child. Her alone now in the city without anyone. He felt compelled to reach out a little more." We can exchange information..." his hands flat on the table, his face contemplating what he was doing or even why. Only a week ago he didn't want to see his family and now... he's willing to exchange whatever it was with Riley. "I don't know why I'm here exactly. You seem to have a pull." Riley’s blood shot eye’s shot open wider as he said this. She sat there sipping on her drink and was trying to put everything together, but he kept talking. He tried to make it out like he didn’t really prefer to be very social but that he would make an exception for her. When he mentioned exchanging information she did her very best to keep a straight vacant face. Simon would never know she had already basically stalked his Face-Book. She pulled out her cell phone and unlocked it and went to her contacts immediately and went to add a new contact, instead of taking the information on her own she slid over her iPhone. She nodded to let him know it was alright for him to go ahead and add his contact information. Furthermore, she watched him be hesitant, but he picked it up and silently was typing on her phone. Riley watched a younger couple, maybe a few years older than her walk in together, they were locked in each other arms and headed to the other side of the diner. It wasn’t too long before the waitress brought out both of their dinners. Riley started digging into her cheeseburger and onion rings. She was starving, she normally ate healthier at home as eating healthier was actually cheaper than buying junk food. She had mouth full of food when he slid the phone back. Furthermore, she looked down and saw Simon’s contact info. What caught her off guard was he gave her more than just his number. She got his mobile number, his home phone number, e-mail and address. He lived a little way out of the city. She took another bite of food and sent him a quick text saying it was her so he could save her number. She didn’t seem creeped out that she was making friends with an older gentleman, she had gone out of her way to get them both to his point. Simon stared down at the phone in his hand. He debated for a moment contemplating why he was even giving out any personal information. After a few seconds he began typing away into her phone. He handed it back to her, maybe he had felt more sympathy, or maybe the loneliness started to catch up to him. For whatever the reason he had given her so much information and access to him. He hoped he didn't regret it when he gave the phone back to her. Soon their food had arrived, and he started to cut into his country steak. The sound of his knife hitting the plate and listening to the surrounding. He started to take notice of her staring at the other couples. He was pushing the mushrooms onto his steak and letting some of the broccoli mix with the mashed potatoes. Furthermore, he felt his phone vibrate catching Riley's phone number. Furthermore, he quickly saved it and put his phone away." What are you studying for in school? You mention you were going to school. Isn't the neighborhood... rough out there?" he wanted to make light conversation. He can't even recall when the last time he really spoke with anyone besides of work or occasional family. He wishes quietly he could help the poor girl out, but he also thought it was weird to offer something to a stranger. Furthermore, he quietly did admire her strength from handling so much so young. “I live in a tiny apartment type studio at the bottom of an old renovated building. I had saved up a lot of money while living at friends when I was younger, so I was able to get it from the landlord for a good price. Luckily they used some of my down payment to fix it up for me. “Riley continued eating taking a drink of her soda while taking another huge bite of her covered cheeseburger. “It’s not the best neighborhood, but you get use to it, I don’t have a lot of people bother me. When I first moved in I had a few people try to break in, but I had that taken care of by beating the shit out of them and calling the cops. “Riley looked up the man and shifted in her seat a little. She looked at her locked phone, she now had the man actual personal information.“I don’t know exactly what I am doing in school. I am just taking as many common classes, math and science until I can decide on a major soon. I go to the university in town.” She mentioned watching other people come into the diner.

Comfortably (Numb) in Love [lonlyazn x VideoKid]|rating:4.0

Jack of Lanterns (Burntheart and Rogued1)

Leif opened his eyes slowly, one could almost say painfully. It had been a seventeen-hour shift, and he had just gotten to sleep a few hours ago, but the knock was urgent, and in the lamp lighter’s tower, you always answered a knock. With a groan he struggled to his feet and found a pair of trousers lying next to his slim bed. Sleepily he pulled them on and made for the door, snatching his staff from its stand next to the bed and turning the tiny flame on its tip up.“Yes?” He asked groggily and opened the door while placing most of his weight on his staff. Carmen was on the other side, a lamp lighter who worked mostly with the alchemists, but who had recently been given a staff and a small stretch of street. The woman was young, and balked a moment at the sight of a senior lamp lighter standing in his doorway wearing nothing but a pair of sloppily donned trousers which were only just hanging off his hips. To her credit, she recovered quickly and stood straight as she delivered her message.“Sir, the keeper wants to speak with you, says it’s urgent.” Leif simply groaned and began shutting the door. “Tell him I’ll be up shortly….” In reality, it was a little over an hour before Leif was actually on his way, but when he did finally get to his feet he walked with a purpose that got people out of his way somewhat quickly. His copper staff clicked dramatically on the flagstones as he strode, his armor barely made a creak as it flexed at freshly oiled joints, and the dark, almost black circles under his eye were almost hidden by his wide brimmed hat, almost. He had slicked his hair back with one of the fireproof gels the alchemists had invented, and his armor did a fine job of hiding the oil stains on his clothes. Spilling oil was a somewhat common occurrence, but no one liked the idea of wasting the flame giving liquid. The Sacred Flame was paranoid about fire, especially the soul flames that each one of them carried. The easiest way to identify a Sacred Flame member was by the method he used to carry his soul, for it was believed that when you joined the order, you ejected your soul from your body and carried it around in the form of fire. Alchemists carried their souls in hooded lanterns that changed colors in the presents of various chemicals, often times giving the user an early warning about what he was working with. The men who delivered lamp oil throughout the city always wore copper helmets with small lanterns affixed to the top to make it easier for them to see what they were doing. And the lamp lighters carried copper poles with wicks at the end where their souls danced merrily for all to see. The complexity of these vessels often denoted the rank of the individual, and they ranged anywhere from simple copper poles with nothing but a candle fixture to long complex staffs hand worked into artistic designs with multiple glass bulbs to hold lamp oil. Leif’s staff was one of these more ornate poles, but the expanded nozzle around the pilot flame suggested he did one of the most dangerous jobs, lighting the lamps that hung from the outside of the city walls with nothing but quick wits and paranoia to protect him from the horrors that lurked in the Blackwoods. The nozzle was designed to spray a burst of oil at anything that tried to eat him, a horrible waste of oil in Lief’s opinion, but it when something slithered out of the dark and tried to swallow you, it was an option you were thankful you had. He was tall and fairly fit for a lighter, the result of running for his life on a weekly basis, and had reflexes that most cats would envy, again from running for his life on a weekly basis. The dark made Leif nervous, and he had a reputation for being a bit twitchy when not in brightly lit areas. Leif was almost famous among the Sacred Flame for having once lit himself on fire to avoid being swallowed by some tentacle horror that had snatched him up on one of his walks. It was this event that had prompted the alchemists to invent the leather armor he wore now, which was soaked in the sap of Blackwood trees and nearly completely fire retardant. Leif had happily doused himself in oil and gone screaming into the night on more than once occasion since that faithful day, and the fireproof armor was a godsend when it happened. Eventually Leif made it to the grand square, the courtyard of the Sacred Flame temple, and gave a relaxed sigh as he was bathed in the light of the titanic lighthouse that took up the center of the square. Atop it, nearly a thousand feet in the air, stood the caldera of Argos, the God who had given fire to mankind and had been murdered by the other gods for it. It was believed that the towering blaze atop the tower was the decedent of that original fire, and it was atop that tower that ever Sacred Flame member got their soul fire. Leif twisted a nob on his staff and increased the size of his wick, then began the leg numbing climb to the top of the tower. Terra shook her head as she watched the new recruits, they were clumsy. Few would've been able to see the recruits as well as she could for they were training in pure darkness. Where the lamp lighters were all about the light and flame the guards were about the darkness. Everything about them spoke of blending into the inky night that enveloped the world. From the day they entered the guard they were trained in the darkness, lived in the shadows and trained to be able to navigate the darkness efficiently. It had been twelve turns since she had entered the guard and in those turns she had made quite the name for herself and many had come to call her The Ghost. This was for her ability to sneak up on those without them knowing as well as her light blue eyes. Like most others she had black hair and somewhat tan skin but the contrast between her eyes and the rest of her coloration is what scared people. Some of the older women had whispered in hushed tones and called them ghost eyes when she was a child roaming the streets." Hello Leon" she said, and a slight chuckle could be heard from behind her. Leon had entered the guard the same time she did, and they still spent time together when possible even though their responsibilities kept them against most of the time. What with her being a Weapons Master and him an instructor their time often kept them apart." I still don't quite understand how you do that" he said to her as he stopped and stood next to her." They're sloppy" she said, gesturing her hand into the darkness of the training grounds." We were once the same" he said to her, and she just snorted." We were never that bad, if they weren't using wooden weapons half of them would've been run through by their allies" she said to him, to say the least she wasn't impressed with their performance." Oh come on, you were no better and neither was I" he said, and she just snorted." Maybe you weren't" she grumbled to him, and he just sighed, she was impossible to deal with when she got this way. Anyone that would compare the two of them would see that they were nearly the same height with Leon only have a couple of inches on Terra and both of their shoulders were equally wide." Harassing one another isn't why I came here" he said to her, and she sighed." What do they want?" she asked him, referring to the guard council." The head of the council asked for you by name, he didn't say why, just that he wanted to talk to you" he said, and she nodded." Then I best be on my way" she said, but before she walked out she grabbed a small glass vial of a murky white liquid and threw it into the training area before she turned to walk out. About the time she reached the door that led out of the observation deck a bright flash of white light appeared, and she yelled before she stepped out." Training is over!" she yelled and with that she headed back to her quarters to don her black leather and steel ring armor. Once she had navigated the sparsely lit stone halls she entered the near darkness of her room and retrieved her armor and donned it. It was heavy leather that had black steel rings stitched onto it, mainly to keep slashing type hits from maiming her. She then slipped on the plate mail bracers that had wicked spikes on the elbow that she could use to gore her opponents and her plate steel shin and thigh guards. She belted her short two and a half foot ladies to her hip, and then she grabbed her guitar, her signature pole arm. The haft was black oiled wood with a black steel spearhead that had two hooks attached to it, one on either side. One hook curved back towards her and the other curved away. The one that curved towards her was good for pulling enemies in to her sword and the other one was good for keeping enemies away from her. There was a brightly dyed orange horse hair tassel at the base of the blade, not only did it work to distract the enemy, but it also slicked off any blood that would otherwise make the shaft of the weapon too slick to keep hold of. She slung the pole arm onto her back and then her large black steel round shield over it like a pack. With that she put on her smooth full helm and strapped it on before she arranged the chain mail forget around her throat. She then walked out of her quarters and to the surface and the crowded streets that she so loathed. Growing up in the streets made it, so a crowd didn't make her comfortable, they made her nervous. She strode through the streets, people stepping out of her way as she went. She was headed to the great stone tower where the guard council was housed. The only thing taller in the city was the great lit tower of the lamp lighters, not that there was much of a contest there, everything in the city was relatively low set to avoid casting shadows. When she got to the building she started up the stairs and to the top to speak to the head of the council. Lief crested the final step of the tower and stood on the great balcony that rimmed the massive fire at the top of the tower. Rain was a distant and almost unknown notation, so the tower had no roof over the pillar of fire, simply the balcony. The keeper stayed here, tending the flame for his entire ten-year term and keeping a watchful eye on the horizon for dangers of any kind. It was the highest honor to serve at the keeper of the flame, and many keepers donated their bodies to fuel the light that had kept the city safe since its founding. Lief stood tall and firm, his olive green eyes flickering in the fire light, his cheeks flushed from the heat. The keeper glanced up from the desk he had been writing at and almost, almost, treated Leif to an impressed look, for after climbing the stairs for nearly an hour, he wasn't out of breath. In reality Lief had taken a break about eighty steps ago to catch his break so he didn't have to puff and huff his way into the company of his order's highest member." Do people really call you smolder?" Leif deflated a little, the moniker had come about shortly after his legendary auto-incineration, and was usually followed by snickers." Not, not to my face." He said, suddenly annoyed that he had spent an hour climbing steps just to be insulted." And you honestly doused yourself in lamp oil and set yourself on fire?" Erh... Yes? Sir?" The old man laughed softly and checked something off on the paper he was writing, then pushed away from the table and stood." Good, I was hoping you'd be as... different as they say you are."" Who says that?"" You'd be surprised at the conversations that float up here, I'd be willing I'm more privy to the love interests of my order than any rumor monger has ever been." The keeper was a tall man. Old, but still built like a man who had spent his life being in good shape and taking care of himself. He was completely devoid of hair, save for his massive bushy eyebrows, which were moon-white and seemed to make up for his lack of hair anywhere else. The keeper had been an alchemist before becoming a keeper, and it was a mark of personal pride for most of them if they still had eyebrows." Did you really just ask me up here to ask if I set myself on fire?" Leif had never been very good with the whole reverence thing. He was completely and totally immune to grandeur, and inevitably treated everyone as equals. This had made him popular with lower ranking members, but had also damned him from ever getting in good with his superiors, who often mistook his honest straightforwardness for insubordination. The old man laughed, and Lief suddenly realized he had just entered a situation where being completely straightforward was perhaps not a wise idea. If was a long fall from up here. Then again, the keeper seemed not to mind. "No, No I did not. I brought you up here to have a conversation about the future. We've, as in I, the civil council and the council of the Watch, have decided it's time to take action against the encroaching darkness. Too many villages and hothouses have gone silent. We are putting together a group to range out into the darkness, refill and relight the lamps along the road to Tumor, and determine what is going on. I have determined you are to lead this group." Leif raised his hand to interject, to protest really, but the keeper waved him off. "No, no, no need to thank me, as the individual who has spent the most time outside the city walls, you are by far the most qualified to lead, and with your willingness to improvise, I feel you are uniquely suited for the task. A group of eight guards will join you, the council of the watch is determining who they are to send now, as well as two alchemists and two oil carries. You are to escort the oil cart to each lamp along the way, and assist the guards in protecting the oilmen while they refill each lantern along the way. The alchemists have come up with a way to make the oil last weeks, so you should have plenty of time to make it to Tumor and back without needing to refill anything. This new refining method may be the weapon we need to retake our hold on the land, but it requires specific components that cannot be gathered within the city walls. The alchemists know what they need to do, just make sure they make it to Tumor and back safely." Leif considered protesting. Hell, he considered quitting right there and then, but something about the way the Keeper gripped his hand just a little too tightly, put Leif off the idea. "I... I shall do my best Keeper." Was all he replied." Good," The old man reached into his armor and drew out a flat red circle of paper about six inches across. Leif instantly recognized it as a tiny paper lantern folded to make it easier to transport. A small candle was a fixed to the side, and when folded up it would stand probably about six inches tall and six inches wide. "For luck." Was all he said as he pressed the lantern into Lief's fingers, and sent him on his way. Leif had been instructed to wait in the courtyard for the others to arrive, and so he took a seat on the flagstones with his staff across his lap and let the reality of the situation sink in. The darkness had been growing stronger, the creatures that lurked in it growing more bold. No one knew this as well as Lief did. And now he was being given a titanic task, to begin the process of trying to reclaim the wilderness, to secure safe passage for people to once again travel between cities. Well, to see if therewerestill people in other cities. The more pessimistic of the population had begun to speculate that they were all that was left. Once Terra reached the summit of the tower it was obvious that the task that they were about to assign her was going to be less than pleasant, she could tell this from the sour looks on the faces of the five council members. She secretly suspected that they were trying to get rid of her because they saw her as a threat, or at the very least an annoyance." Take a seat Terra" the head of the council said as he gestured to an open chair. She glanced at it and then back up at him, unwilling to allow the nobleman to push her around like he was known to do with the other members of the guard." I suspect that you asked me here for something important?" she asked him in a tone that would be considered insubordinate by most but for those that had dealt with Terra they knew that she was blunt with everyone, including her superiors, consequences be damned. This is why she had been so efficient in warding off attacks because she told the troops what to do and if they didn't listen she'd just plow over the top of them to make sure it got done." Yes, we did" said the head councilman, it seemed that he would be the one doing all the talking for the council for this meeting. Terra had never much cared for the council, not when every now, and then they would decide to send a group of guards and lamp lighters to their deaths in the wilderness." And what is it that you asked me here for them?" she asked him, starting to get rather impatient, then again, patience never was one of her strong suits, if she stood still too long she tended to get a little twitchy." I was getting there, if you'd quit interrupting me" he said, his normally pale skinned face starting to flush red in frustration. Terra was debating the merits of continuing to harass him, but she guessed she probably ought to behave herself for once." As I was saying" he snipped before continuing, "You are being assigned to lead a group of ten guards that are to escort a group composed of a lamp lighter, a couple of alchemists, and oil carriers through the darkness and to relight the lamps on the way to Tumor" he said and Terra's eye twitched in annoyance, she knew that he was trying to get rid of her!" Which one of the lamp lighters will be escorting the group?" she asked him, trying, but more or less failing, to keep her tone civil." I believe his name is Leif, but you may have heard him referred to as smolder" he said and now not only was Terra's eye twitching but her mouth as well, of course she had heard of him, everyone had, hell, she'd been on duty one time when he had come running for the gates, himself aflame and some indescribable creature that was all black hair, claws, teeth and glowing red eyes chasing after him. She herself had stepped in and drove her guitar into the beast's chest and through its foul heart, the burning lamp lighters still running through the streets yelling something that was nothing but gibberish to her." Very well sir, where am I to meet the rest of the expedition party?" she asked him, trying not to bust him in the chops just on principle." In the courtyard in front of the lamp lighters tower, more likely than not the lamp lighter will already be there waiting" he said, and she just nodded before she left, stalking down the stairs with a twisted smile on her face that said 'don't talk to me, or I might just kill you'. By the time she made it to the bottom of the tower she had cooled off and instead headed to the armory that was in the base of the tower. While there she obtained a quiver filled to the gills with javelin. She strapped on the quiver so it was in the same place that a quiver full of arrows would rest, and she settled it under her shield so she could still draw her guitar freely as well as grabbing a javelin without issue. With that settled she headed for the courtyard to find a lamp lighter sitting in the courtyard on the stone, his copper staff across his lap, a small flame burning from one end. He was decked in a rich red-brown leather armor that much resembled the color of copper, minus the metallic sheen. She approached him, her footsteps making hardly any sound, she waited to see if he would take notice of her or if she would have to announce herself. When she was within five feet of him she stopped and waited to see if he had heard her. "Take a seat, fair guards woman." The words were obviously on some measure of joke, but the tone suggested he wasn't trying to be rude. After all, Lief's primary goal in life was surviving it, consequences be damned, and if he was to be leading this little expedition into the blackness that was the wilds, he at least figured he had better be civil with the people protecting him. The Sacred Flame and city guards were often at odds with each other, as the strength of one often times called for the diminishing of the other. It was usually a friendly jousting for power, a "Who can be the better protector" game that benefited most of the city, but often times meant that square pegs got lined up with circular holes. Lief knew the woman standing before him, she was among the favored topics of gossip in the city, and often times seen as a bit of a dark hero. Effective in her dealings with monsters, but not in her dealings with people. Lief realized at that moment that they were going to get along about as well as gunpowder and fire, for he was the exact opposite, much rather dealing with people and running from monsters. At that moment he also realized she was very much like him, as they would both never see the heights of rank within their order because of their inability to deal with their superiors. All of this flickered through Lief's mind like the flame on the tip of his staff, and after a moment of thinking he opened his eyes and glanced up at her. Gods she was intimidating, there was something... feral about her that triggered the senses that were usually reserved for detecting monsters. He shrugged to himself and frightened his staff, the little flame at the tip dancing merrily as he waved it about, but Lief knew as long as there was oil in the reservoir it would never go out. The staff had been a gift from the Sacred Flame for expansive service, more a publicity act than anything else, for while he was seen as the fool of the lamp lighters, he was a clever fool, and many peopled looked to his antics as the kind of spirit that would trick and twitch its way out of danger. In short, they were both flawed individuals in the public eye, but in the same light they were sparks of hope, and if there was anything a Lamp Lighter was willing to put his faith in, it was that sparks could land on the right kind of material and burst into most glorious fire. When it didn't look like she would be joining him on the ground, he huffed a little and rose to his feet. "I'm sure you know me, and I'm sure you're sure I know you. So shall we skip introductions and get straight to the heart of the matter?" Lief wasn't willing to play games with their lives. He wanted to know what it was the guard council was up to, especially if he was going to be leading this little band of merry heroes." The Sacred Flame wants to try to reconnect the roads between here and Towards. I have no reason to suspect that they intend for this mission to fail, but at the same time I'm sure we're both aware that the last couple of merry groups to go traipsing off into the woods were never heard from again. This party is to be much smaller than the last groups, so perhaps that will serve to our advantage... but, who knows? The Sacred Flame wants us to succeed at this... What I want to know is: is the guard council running with the same motive, or do you think they're just sending us to our doom?" When he asked her to take a seat next to him, she just looked at him like he was insane, which, as far as she was concerned, he probably was. As a general rule of thumb Terra didn't trust lamp lighters, not in the least. Most of them were too flighty and were more likely to run than to stand and fight, and guards were the exact opposite, you get enough of the well-trained ones together they can stand and pretty much are able to hold off an army. He didn't really seem like much, scrawny and lanky, he probably wouldn't be able to wield a spear properly. This little fact annoyed the hell out of her, if he was going to run from every monster that they ran into it, she might just 'mistake' him for a monster so she could skewer him to the ground with a javelin. She knew he was studying her, much the same way she was to him. When he finally stood up she still looked him over, he might be a slight bit taller than she was, but he carried nowhere near the strength that she did on her own frame. When he finally spoke up she was surprised at his tone, it often reminded her of her own short temper when dealing with her superiors. She was surprised at his sarcasm and if it wasn't for his tendency to run from a fight they might have been able to be friends. Once he had finished his little speak she spoke up." Of course, I know who you are, one of the more recent incidents where you set yourself on fire I was on gate duty and was the one that stopped the beast that was chasing you, not that you noticed, you were far too busy shrieking something and running away" Terra said, the normal acidic sarcasm that she was known for lacing her voice, "And as for the guard council I wouldn't count on their support, at least not in the sense of them sending decent recruits along, they'll probably send a batch of whelps or some of their private lapdogs to make sure we don't make it back alive. I don't think the guard council cares one way or another how the expedition goes as long as I don't come back alive. I'm assuming that since you know of me that you also know that I don't necessarily play nice with my commanders, they're tired of my insubordination, I give it two full cycles of the dial before they attempt anything if it's the lapdogs, after all, they wouldn't want someone in the city to see them offing us. If they send whelps they'll scatter at the first sign of danger, most whelps are more skittish than a lamp lighter, no offense" she said to him offhandedly. She wasn't being cruel, just stating a fact that related to what she knew." If shit does hit the whirling device you take care of yourself" she said, referring to the whirling blades that were used to circulate the heat in the bath houses, "If you see things going bad I suggest you take your oil carriers and get out of the way, if it's private guards I'll hold them off as long as I can, but you better get one hell of a head start on them because they will hunt you down without mercy, if it's whelps I'll be holding off the monsters, either way you better run" Terra said, dead serious, she knew that there was a very high chance of her not coming back from this assignment alive, but she was going to try her hardest to make sure that the lamp lighters didn't get caught up in the crossfire of a guard council disagreement. “Yes,” he replied curtly, “I was rather busy not getting eaten, funny how not everyone sees that as a wise idea.” He stood with his arms folded across his chest and his staff resting in the crook of his arm, somewhat amused that she had obviously never seen a Lighter in danger if she thought he’d be carrying a weapon. His mild amusement quickly faltered however as she explained her opinion of the guard council and what she expected to happen. The half smirk quickly turned to a dark frown, and the fire on his staff leapt in his eyes. “Those hypocritical, useless bureaucratic little shits.” He hissed and glanced up at the tower behind him for guidance. “Well, unfortunately none of those options are acceptable. We will not be running, and we will not be infighting. What the guard council seems to not understand is that the Sacred Flame believes this expedition is more important than offing insubordinate individuals. Tumor has resources we need, oil that burns for weeks without needing to be replenished. We could relight the highways and begin seeing what’s become of the other towns and villages. Those people are still trapped out there, hiding behind stone walls while all manner of horrors lurk in the darkness, and relighting the highways is the only chance they’ve got.” Leif began pacing angrily, and at that moment he realized why the lamps had gone dark outside the city, someone was settling personal scores and damning the consequences.“Well,” He said finally, obviously reaching a decision and turning back to her. “You had better hope to hell that it’s trainees, they’ll at least follow orders if they realize it’s their only hope. If it’s not, we’re going to be feeding the Boggles on the way to Tumor then, because running is not an option. We’re taking a cart, a donkey team and several drums of lamp oil with us, and there’s no way we’re getting that turned around in a hurry.” He tapped his fingers along the copper rod with a grunt and lost himself in thought for a moment. Could he honestly trust her? She was insubordinate, perhaps she about her superiors? He locked eyes with her for a moment, obviously searching for something specific deep in those light blue depths. No, she wasn’t being paranoid, she honestly believed the council would use this expedition, one that might yield the ability to push back against their encroaching doom, to off one of their own. He let out a deep sigh and shook his head. “Be ready then, and pray that it’s rookies. I refuse to let your council’s bureaucratic demon shit ruin something this important.” He started to say more, but at that moment a pair of alchemists wandered over to the two and bowed their solemn greetings. Lief had always liked alchemists, but most people found their strange ways and constant tinkering with volatile chemicals a little off-putting. To an alchemist, everything was an experiment, from social interaction, to cooking, to work. They may greet you pleasantly one day, then offend you the next just to see how you’d react. They were predictable unpredictable, and Lief was glad he was in charge of this little trip and not the anti-social guard-captain in front of him.“Gentlemen…” Lief greeted them and waited to see what they would do. Apparently the importance of this trip had been beaten into the two, for they tried no antics and simply responded in kind. The two men wore bandoleers over every available part of their bodies packed with tiny glass vials containing various colored liquids and powders. Their leather armor was similar to his, but dark brown instead of copper, and much, much thicker to absorb the explosions they usually used in combat. Alchemists were known for throwing vials of chemicals at enemies, but just as often they hugged their enemies and let the thick padding absorb the resulting explosion. A properly equipped and sufficiently deranged alchemist could level a town given sufficient motivation, and despite their unpredictable nature, Lief was glad to have them along. He was beginning to sense a theme in the people joining this trip. Next the two oil carriers arrived with a donkey pulled cart filled with drums of oil. Each of them had a small device made up of a six-foot hose with a needle on one end and a strange shaped attachment on the other. The needle was for piercing the barrels, the attachment fitted to a nozzle at the base of a lamp in order to refill the oil reservoir. Every mile or so they would need to stop and refill the great lamps that lined the road to Tumor, alchemists and guards keeping an eye out for beasties while the oilmen filled the lamp and Lief lit it. The light would chase most monsters away, it was humankind’s greatest weapon against the sea of gnashing teeth and ripping claws that was the outside world.“I suppose all we need to do now is wait for the rest of our guards and see if we need to kill them or not.” The oilmen and alchemists chuckled, but Lief did not. Terra listened silently as he said what he needed to say, she was about to respond to him about what she knew had to happen if it was the private guards, but it was at that point that the alchemists and oil carriers arrived. She watched as the alchemists greeted Lief without any kind of mischief, which, for an alchemist, was highly uncommon. As another one of her general rules of thumb she didn't trust alchemists either, where lamp lighters were skittish the alchemists were just plain nuts, not even the garden variety of nuts. They didn't have to wait long for the guards and when they showed up Terra cussed under her breath. Four whelps and five wolves. The wolves were the private guard that she had feared they would send, and by their dress and the wolf insignia on their armor they were members of the private guard of the head councilor himself. The one that was obviously the leader of the little group sported a nasty looking trident with a blood-red hassle under the metal portion of the weapon. He walked with the swagger of someone that needed put in their place, and she was going to make an example of him right here and now." I'm assuming that you've been briefed on the assignment?" she asked as she walked up to them. The whelps were cowering, practically shivering in their boots whereas the wolves were proud and defiant and the leader even had the balls to sneer at her. She walked behind the line, and she knocked the leader's feet out from under him quickly drawing her guitar and twirling it over her head in a show of skill before she put a foot on the chest of the leader, who had now rolled onto his back, and held the tip of the blade to his bare throat." I will not tolerate any kind of insubordination on this mission! I am the commanding officer! If you value your life you will do as you are told and if you don't, you won't be coming back here, even if I have to leave you bleeding out for the beasts to feed upon!" she bellowed at them before she took her weapon away from his throat and spun it around again before she holstered it in its place on her back." You, on your feet" she growled at the one she had just made and example of, then she turned her back to them, "Form up! I want everyone one of you paying attention, form up around the carts, stay sharp men" she barked out, and they all scrambled to listen to her, she then turned to look at Lief." Let's get going, we've got lots of ground to cover" she said, then she started walking, drawing even with Lief, and she whispered to him in a hushed tone, "Hopefully that ended any problems before they started, I ask that you keep an eye on them as well, I know that you're technically the one in charge of this mission, but I would rather that we work together, I took charge there to keep them in line, if they had any downtime they would've been plotting against us, if we keep them busy maybe they won't have time to plot our downfall" she whispered to him, hoping that she didn't offend him, she really needed him on her side if shit actually did hit the whirling device. Lief watch the display with about as much shock as the other Sacred Light members as Terra brought one of the house guard low and established herself in the pecking order. Obviously things were done very differently in the guard’s quadrant of the city. As Terra called for a march, the alchemists and oilmen gave him a questioning look. He simply shrugged and fell into step with the guards. As she drew level with Lief and spoke, he sighed and gave her a doubtful look. “Or,” He said quietly enough so that only she could hear, “You’ve just turned what was originally following orders into a personal grudge. Now they have a reason other than being told to kill you, to kill you.” He glanced over his shoulder at the oilmen and nodded to the alchemists to take up positions on either side of the cart. Their artillery would be a welcome blessing when things inevitably turned sour.“Do keep in mind dear Ghost eye, that you are traveling with a Lighter and two Alchemists. There are better ways to keep men in line, and far more efficient ways to remove them.” As they approached the massive bronze gates that separated the city proper from the outside world, Lief pulled up short and ordered a fault. He watched as the wolves and whelps formed up and noted the expression of the wolf leader. “Gentlemen, Ladies,” He said, his face beaming brightly as he walked down the line and shook hands forcefully with each of the wolves, then in turn whelps. “Perhaps we should get acquainted before we spend the next few weeks tromping through the twilight. You know, get to know each other’s faces before we can’t see ourselves anymore!” The alchemists eagerly fell in line, curious to see where Lief’s strange behavior would go. “Helmets off please,” Lief brushed his coppery hair back from his face and eyed every one of them with a pleasant grin. The oil men fell into line next to the alchemists and reluctantly removed their copper hats, the tiny candles atop them dancing as they moved. Lief took note of their reluctance and breathed a sigh of relief that he had been given experienced oilmen. The youngers constantly took off their hats to check that the flame atop it still burned. Older members of the group moved their hats, and consequently their heads, as little as possible in order to reduce the risk of waving their flame out. Lief made everyone state their names and ranks, looked each and every member of his company in the eye as they spoke, and acknowledged them with genuine interest when they spoke. The wolves sneered and only reluctantly complied with any of his requests, but the whelps warmed up to him quickly, and he exchanged small pleasantry with each of them in turn, trying to win them over with blunt friendliness. The inconsistency in guard ranks roused a little suspicion among the Sacred Flame, who were a little more used to Leif’s antics and had a vague understanding as to what he was trying to convey to them.“And the guard council sends six veterans from their very own council leader’s house guard to boot!” Leif was exclaiming, making the leader of the wolves squirm under the obnoxious attention. None of them wanted to deal with this blabbering idiot, but Leif held a lot of sway among the Lighters and the common civilians of the city, so it was best not to cut out his tongue where someone might see. Leif for his part was purposely pouring blood in the water, making himself seem like a weak and incompetent idiot who would make their attempted assassination all the easier to pull off. Finally growing bored with torturing the wolf captain, Leif sorted his people and waved his staff to signal that the gates should be open. His layout was simple and, he hoped, it would give them the best shot at staying alive. He took the lead, with Terra within arms reach behind him. The whelps he assigned to walk in front and to the sides of the cart, with the primary job of defending the donkey and the two alchemists who walked on either side with them. The two oilmen sat in the seat of the cart and coxed the mule ahead, while Leif assigned the Wolves to guard their rear, knowing better than anyone that if they were going to be set on by any of the more intelligent monsters of the dark, that the attack would come from there. He also secretly instructed the alchemists to be less discriminatory with explosives directed at the back of the group.“Well, let's get this merry little trip underway!” Leif tapped the bottom of his staff hard against the pavement, and the candle sized flame on its tip burst into a torch sized blaze. With that, he stepped through the gate, and the cart lurched into motion behind him. Terra grudgingly listened as he said to remove helmets, she didn't like the thought of having her neck clean and open to danger, especially with enemies so near. At first, she didn't understand his blatant friendliness, but she understood, the clever little bastard was purposely making himself look weak. She would have to make sure not to anger him for he could prove to be a cunning enemy. Once he formed everyone up she was pleased to note that the wolves were guarding the rear, this meant that it would take longer for them to make it to the front, not to mention that they would have to go through the alchemists. She wasn't happy with how young the whelps were, they were fresh out of training and were going to be as skittish as a colt. That in itself could prove to be a problem, whelps tended to clam up when trouble showed its ugly face, especially if it was the beasts in the wilds. Once they were underway she was more than happy to cram her helm back down over her head and re-secure the chain mail around her neck. She wasn't quite sure why Lief had assumed that her making a target of herself was a bad thing, after all, if it meant that they'd come after her first it meant that the others would have time to react. When he tapped his staff to the ground, and it flamed up even higher she wasn't all that surprised, she had seen some of their staves that would spew flame thirty feet into the air as well as out. She took her place behind him, staying far enough out-of-the-way so she wouldn't run into him if he stopped suddenly, but she was also close enough to snag him out of danger if necessary. Once they were out of the city she stepped closer to him. When she was close enough that she could talk to him without being heard by the others she decided to voice her mind." Do you realize that I did what I did for a reason? I did it so that if they do decide to stab us in the backs that perhaps they will go for mine first and my back is better protected than yours it, I also took the target off of the backs of the oilmen and the alchemists, if there is anger in their minds it will cloud their judgement, and they will come after me first, it will give the others the chance to retaliate" she said to him, she had thought this out thoroughly. They could survive without her, but not the oilmen, alchemists or the lamp lighter, they were the ones that would see this expedition through." I don't want them seeing you as weak, if you are seen as weak they will lunge for the throat and latch on, don't do around painting a target on your back" she hissed at him, trying to get the point across with a bit of tact if at all possible." Please, let me deal with the guard matters, you don't need to be getting tangled up in it or the guard council will be after you head as well" she said with some form of finality. Lief glanced sidelong at her and gave her a somewhat cruel smirk, as if she thought he wouldn't argue. "You wield that stubby thing well, but your tongue is the weapon that moves armies. I know you understand the part of city guard well, but you haven't been outside the wall. You did a fine job with that horned beastie that chased me through the gate those years ago, but that was only one, and you were in your territory. Out here," He waved vaguely to the trees they were approaching. "Things are different. There are no wolves, not whelps, no lighters and no alchemists. There is only soft, supple human meat for the creatures daring and fast enough to get it. Inside the city walls you must content with the guard council, but they are absolutely nothing, insignificant specs, compared to the horrors out here. I don't want them angry, I don't want their judgement clouded, because by the time we've made it to Tumor, it will be painfully obvious that the intelligent thing to do is keep you alive, because you're one more sword to swing, and one more thing between them and the nightmares. If we don't all do our part, we will all die. It's that simple. The whelps will understand this, the oilmen, the alchemists, and your wolves too. You fight well, but you are no math for most of the things out here, not by a long shot. I don't want them thinking I'm weak, I want them thinking I'm agreeable, so if something slithers out of the darkness and begins dragging one away, I want them to believe that so long as we're alive, there's someone to cut them loose, or at the very least, someone to carry their sword back to honor their memory. I know you think I'm a coward, but you haveabsolutelyno concept of how horrible it is out here, and if you do and still think I'm a coward, you're a fool." He fixed her with a rare serious look and pointed ahead with his staff. "What no one seems to understand is that we have a finite amount of oil to keep the lanterns lit, a finite amount of wood to keep the Sacred Flame burning, and a finite amount of light by which to protect ourselves. If we don't secure the resources we need, the lamps will go out, and it won't matter who sent who to kill who, because every bleeding man, woman, and child will be dead and forgotten by this cruel world we have the misfortune to inhabit." With that Leif turned his attention forward and began scanning the road. The City was built in the center of a large grassy field, and threats could be seen for a few hundred feet out into the tall, wild grass. Beyond that though, nothing but pitch blackness existed. They were coming to this barrier now, the inky blackness of perpetual night spread out before them like and oppressive storm ready to swallow them up like a few dust particles. Lief stopped at the very edge of the city's light and turned back to his troupe. "Be wary my friends, we're leaving safe ground behind. Every step we take into this blackness takes us further from the help, and we'll need to rely on each other if we're going to survive this. I know that this is most, if not all of your first times out of the city, and I warn you of this, all feuds are left here, you can pick them back up when we come back this way. Every breathing body among us improves our likelihood of seeing blessed light again. Anyone violating that verdict will help the others, by being a blazing corpse to chase the darkness away, that I promise you." With that Leif ordered them into formation, and they set out again. It took them about an hour past the safe circle of light that was the city to come to the first lamp. Up until that point only the faint glimmer of the city lights and Leif's blazing staff provided a light, and Leif's demurring had become vastly less pleasant since leaving the city lights. The lamp itself was a grand, noble thing, about thirty feet high with a base about six feet wide that tapered up to the massive light case which was big enough for a man to stand inside. "You guard form a circle around the lamp, alchemists backs against the lamp and weapons in hand." The oilmen knew what to do and didn't need to be told. They rolled a drum of oil from the back of the cart and used their strange devices to puncture the iron drum. The other end fitted neatly into a socket at the base of the lamp. This done, they looked to Leif for further instruction. Leif slung his staff across his back and mounted the lamp, climbing hand over hand like a monkey with absolutely no sign of effort till he was up inside the light housing." Everything looks good up here, start the oil!" With a twist of a nob the oilmen began the process of filling the lamp's reservoir. Leif turned down his staff' light until it was only the size of a candle again, and touched it to the wick that stuck up from the center of the light housing. There was a "Whoosh!" of fire taking off and the flame sprang to life, casting a pleasant glow across the road. Now that there was light, the group had a clear view of the woods they were about to enter, the massive, thorn covered trees with their black leaves and blood-red sap dripping softly in the light breeze. Leif slid down the lamp and adjusted his staff back to torchlight. It was then that he felt the airs on the back of his neck rise. Something inside the tree line was watching them. Terra stayed silent, allowing Lief to believe what he would about her understanding of life outside the walls. She had been an orphan because the town that she had been born in had been taken by the blackness. The oil had run out and no one had shown up with more. She had only been six at the time but those memories of the cruel seven cycles she spent dodging the creatures and trying not to starve had changed her for the rest of her life. It's why she was blunt, cruel, and above all hated the creatures with the kind of single-minded animosity that drove her to become a guard in the first place. After the seven cycles of scrounging for food in the darkness a crew of guards led by a lamp lighter had shown up in the village, chasing away the beasts by lighting them aflame and skewering them. After searching the village they turned her up as the only survivor and that's because she had barricaded herself in the crawlspace beneath the floor of the stone hut she had lived in with her parents and older brother. She had survived because her parents had shoved her into the crawlspace before the creatures had impeded on the fading circle of light that was the town. The journey to the first of many lanterns was short and uneventful, no doubt the rest would be far more... Lively. As the oilmen and Lief readied and lit the lantern she kept a watchful eye as well as her ears trained on the darkness. Once the lantern was lit the woods in front of them were visible and the best word she could think of to describe them was evil. It was then that she heard the movement and saw the glowing red eyes,"Do you see what I see?" she asked herself more than anyone else as she grabbed her guitar and her shield, she spun her guitar in a circle before she stuck it upright in the ground next to her, the metal spike in the butt-end of it holding it in place in the ground. She then grabbed a javelin and held it in a ready position, more than ready to skewer the beast." We have company" she said loud enough for everyone to hear her as she gestured into the woods with her shield. Leif followed her gaze and found a pair of faint red eyes reflecting the lantern’s light. They were low to the ground, and as far as he could see there was only one pair, perhaps a blessing after all. “Let’s see how it reacts to Gustav.” He said over his shoulder at the alchemists, who moved with enthusiastic care as one drew a small vial of some powder and a vial of blue liquid. The alchemist held the two vials in one hand and with practiced accuracy, hurled the pair of vials towards the gap in the trees where their hidden watcher stood. The two vials broke instantly, and the resulting flash of light sent a burst of sparks spiraling into the air, accompanied by choking, black smoke and a smell that made their eyes water from fifty feet away. There was no yelp or howl of pain, but the sound of rustling and retreat reached their ears as soon as the bang from the explosion faded. Leif nodded to the alchemists and glanced at the oilmen. “How long?” The two looked at each other than up at the light above them. “Perhaps ten minutes.” One of them confirmed and the other nodded in agreement. Lief returned the nod and took up a position next to Terra. He stood quietly and held his light high hoping to illuminate as much as possible. “Quasi most likely, not a huge threat to a group like us, but a favorite meal for the larger beasties. I’d prefer we not get their scent on us if possible.” He glanced over at her stance for a moment, but turned his eyes back to the trees just as quickly. “They know we’re here now though, I’d keep those javelins handy.” The oilmen gave the all clear a few minutes later and the little group took up their marching order and started towards the trees. The path wasn’t quite overgrown, but it had been months, likely years, since anyone had clear-cut the trees back to a suitable distance, and as such the thorn covered horrors crowded in around them, Leif’s defensive light penetrating only so far into the oppressive gloom. Just as the light of the first lamp winked out of view, another great lantern stood before them, this time shorter, but with its base covered in long, sharp spines to protect the hated light source at the top. Leif ordered another protective circle and the oil men set to work while he scaled the lamp with as much ease and grace as a squirrel. They stared into the dark as the oil pumped away, but no obvious targets presented themselves for attack. Still, the feeling of being watched lurked with them, and Leif was beginning to worry that they had attracted the attention of something smarter than a base beast. He found himself gravitating towards Terra more and more, and managed to convince himself that this was because his light would aid the warrior in selecting her targets, and not because the bristling of weaponry she carried gave him comfort. The high-strung attention of the Whelps could have been plucked like a string. The wolves were less white knuckled, but they too had little experience wandering outside the walls. It had been several years since anyone had really set foot outside the city walls, and Leif prayed that the recovery of the alchemy at Tumor would work to fix that. There had been a thriving empire once, highways ran from city to city with armies of lamp lighters and soldiers to protect the good people from the gloom, but the gloom always fought back, and despite the skills of the empire, the darkness housed an infinite number of horrors. The going was slow, the tree roots had begun their duty of reclaiming the road, and the cart itself often got stuck, often times taking a shove from behind to dislodge. Still, just as soon as the light of one lamp was gone, another appeared to guide their way. In four hours they had twice as many lamps lit, and for the first time Leif was allowing himself to be optimistic about the outcome of this trip. Terra was tense, her body strung out on adrenaline and the thoughts of the pasties that lurked in the dark. The little one they had run into earlier had been a false alarm, but where there was prey there were beasts that fed on the prey. They had lit eight lanterns in four hours, which was a good pace figuring in the time it took to fill each lantern. She had a creeping feeling that they were being followed, stalked, through these woods. Whatever it was moved in silence, without giving away it's presence. She knew that it was going to wait until either the wagon broke down, or they had to stop for a meal. The forest was starting to make her feel a little claustrophobic, it seemed to be encroaching on them the deeper they went. There was an evil about this forest, and it seemed to permeate the very air." On your toes men, it's far too silent out here" she said to them, still ready with the javelin in hand and her guitar slung onto her back. Then there was a sudden shrieking squeal of pain before whatever it was wailed, only for it to be silenced with a sudden gurgle." What was that?" one of the whelps yelled, starting to freak out." It came from over there!" another one of the whelps said, pointing into the woods on the side of the cart furthest away from the lamp pole." We're all going to die!" one of them wailed and Terra cussed, she was afraid that this was going to happen." Shut up and keep your heads about you, or you're already dead!" she growled at them, "Call out when you hear movement, other than that keep your traps shut and ears open" she said, and they all shut up, albeit some of them were whimpering by that point. It was a couple of ticks later when a small furry body came flying out of the woods and landed on the helm of one of the whelps who promptly screamed, dropped his spear and shield, and started flailing about to get it off of him. The other whelp on that side smacked him in the head with the end of his spear the furry thing fell off in a bloody heap of black fur and dark red blood." By the gods it's dead!" one of the whelps screamed and the one that it had landed on was still screaming, running around like a chicken with its head cut off." Get over it, something threw it at us, now pay attention!" Terra bellowed at them, trying to get them back in order, things were going bad and quickly." Lief, get down here please, we're about to need help" she said to him, still paying attention to both directions because the whelps on the side of the cart that didn't get the critter thrown at them weren't watching at all. It was then that she heard a deep rumbling growl and the overwhelming smell of rotting flesh wafted into the area and Terra froze, that was the same smell she remembered from childhood when she was hiding under the house, it came off of the creature that spent hours scratching at the trap door hatch that led to the crawlspace. She inhaled sharply, she was terrified and scared stiff. Leif had been scraping some kind of lantern muck off the inside glass of the lantern while he waited for the oilmen to finish their job, and hadn’t been paying much attention to the people on the ground. When he heard Terra’s voice however, he sat up and took notice, immediately spotting the chaos that was several whelps struggling with a small dead thing. He could only think of a couple of beasties who enjoyed such tactics, and he wasn’t massively thrilled with the idea of meeting any of them. That was the problem with taking a crew with you, wasn’t it? If he had been on his own he could have simply left, and if things got bad, he could make use of his oil and fire and try to buy himself enough time to find a safe place to hide. Not so here, where he had people he was responsible for, and didn’t really want to see ripped to shreds by some horrible beastie. A shifting of movement off to the side of the caravan caught his attention, a shadow moving against the wind, and he quickly opened the glass panel that he had used to access the light housing. The two alchemists were bright-eyed and watchful, keep seeing what their various chemical horrors would do to a more bestial one. “Radio!” Leif yelled, calling the one of the right side of the cart by name. “Two O’clock, light it up!” The alchemist spun and hurled a small vial of bright green liquid in the indicated direction. By some miracle it bounced off a tree and dropped behind the tree line. There was a “Whoosh!” of bright green light and a bestial howl of pain. A split second later a tree near the road shuddered as something massive ran into it, then stumbled out onto the road, swinging two of it’s four limbs wildly and charging randomly. The creature was massive, easily one of the largest monsters Leif had ever seen. It towered nearly three times the height of a man with black mottled skin covered in an armored shell, a large predatory head built like a cross between a crocodile and a bull, and four arms, two massive thick limbs with crab-like claws at the ends, and two thin, fine manipulation limbs, disturbingly humanlike, that stuck out from the front of its chest. The creature was covering its six milky white eyes with the finer limbs and swinging the massive one about wildly, howling in anger at being blinded. By some mercy of the gods it missed one of the whelps with a bone shattering blow and stumble into the base of the lamp, impaling itself on the multitude of iron spikes that protected the lamp. The impact bent the lamp and shook Leif from his perch, who fell with a rather unimpressive yelp into the creature’s flailing arms. The monster grabbed him immediately with its inner limbs and with a scream of “No, No!” Lief was stuffed head first into the creature’s mouth, his legs kicking as he tried to struggle free of its grip. There was a moment of horrid apprehension as the creature swallowed, then a moment where a lot of things happened all at once. There was an in-audible click from about halfway down the creature’s throat, and another “Whoosh!” of fire doing what fire did oh so well. The force of the explosion knocked the creature loose of the Lamp’s barbs and sent it toppling backwards, while at the same time firing Leif from its mouth like a cannonball and sending him sailing across the clearing to land in an ignoble heap on the side of the road. In a rare flash of panic driven fervor, the Whelps fell on the dazed creature seeking weaknesses in its armor and hacking, stabbing and slashing until it was little more than a bloody pile of monster parts. Leif stumbled to his feet, dazed and singed, his armor covered in black soot and monster saliva, and sporting a few new holes where the creature’s teeth had punctured. His face was a wash of soot, and he was missing an eyebrow, but other than that he seemed to be alive. “I… Never... Want to do that again…” He said and stumbled over to the little group, taking a hard seat on the almost empty barrel the oil men had been filling the lamp with. After the monster had been dispatched of the normally unshakable Terra was shaking like a leaf. Her eyes were darting side to side in a paranoid manner, and she had a death grip on her javelin, unfortunately she knew something else about these creatures, and that was that they normally hunted in groups of two or three... Which meant that there was at least one more out there, possibly two, and by the looks of the one they had killed one of the survivors was liable to be even bigger, they had just killed a female, the male was liable to be larger, with a set of massive bull like horns, heavier hide that was tougher to get through, and since they had killed a female it was going to be pissed." We need to move" she said to the group, looking at them with wild eyes as she kept her ears trained for any sound of trouble, but that was when a snap came from above, and she slowly looked up into the gaping maw of a seriously pissed off male. It hissed at her, just out of the light that it loathed but still close enough that it could snatch her up with one of it's clawed arms. She dropped her javelin and reached for her guitar, things were going to get ugly rather quickly. It was then that a winged beast resembling a bat with a vulture like head and neck and a small set of arms on its chest that had long wicked clawed hands on the end swooped in and banked sharply next to the lantern, flapping its wings quickly, screeching and cawing as the flame started to dwindle, soon the whole area was engulfed in darkness save for the flame on the tip of Lief's staff. A couple of the whelps screamed out, and she could hear the rustling of the wolves putting themselves back to back in a tight circle with their pole arms pointed outwards. It was then that the male beast made its move and jumped at her, reaching for her with its human like hands. She dodged, managing to dodge the beast's massive clawed arms as well. She then jabbed blindly into the near darkness, her guitar bouncing off of its hide, almost like there wasn't even a blade on the end. It swiped at her again with it's clawed arm, and she didn't manage to duck, this time taking it broadside, even though her shield was still between her and the arm it knocked her back several feet, rolling her around and disorienting her in the darkness. She wasn't sure where the creature was until it stepped between her line and sight and the flame of Lief's staff. The beast lunged at her, and she planted her guitar at an angle into the ground, and it drove itself onto the weapon, only sinking so far before the hooks caught it. The beast was angry, still clawing and grabbing at her as she scrambled to right herself. She knew that it was nowhere near being a fatal blow to the beast, it had probably just barely pierced the thick layer of fat beneath its tough hide, meaning that it was just stuck and pissed off. About the time that she had scrambled to her feet one of its human like arms darted out and snatched her ankle and she dug her hands into the ground, searching for purchase, something to keep it away from it's snapping maw. She was unable to reach her sword at her belt due to her being dragged on her stomach and a javelin wasn't going to help her at this point, and she damn sure couldn't pull what Leif just did, so she did the only logical thing she could do. Let go. As it drugs her backwards she managed to roll onto her back and she pulled her arm free of her shield, careful to time everything just right so that when the beast was about to take a chunk out of her she jammed the shield between its jaw and the shield proved to be strong enough to hold its jaws open. This gave Terra enough time to go for her sword and she slashed at the arm holding her and the beast screamed in pain, still trying to get the shield dislodged from its jaws. She looked up, just able to see the pulse in its neck from the shadows being thrown by the flame the Lief carried. She went to drive her sword into the pulse point but when the massive winged beast flew at her, grabbing her sword arm with it's clawed hands on its chest, pulling her to her feet and snapping at her hand with its beak. It was starting to pull her further into the darkness, despite her best attempts to break free and to dig her feet into the ground. It was then that she saw a pair of glowing eyes, lurking just inside the trees, the flying beast was dragging her towards something else entirely. Lief recovered quickly from his ordeal at the innards of a beast, mostly at the bequest of panic and need. He was just preparing to back up to protect the oilmen when the flying creature made its move. Somewhat dumbstruck, Lief couldn’t quite believe what he was seeing, the creature was dashing his lantern, plunging them into darkness. Far more worrying was the fact that the creature was actually strategizing, combating their advantage with the monster’s own. The grand master of realizations came in a swoop of terror with the realization that these creatures were working together to bring their group down. What should have been a fairly straightforward fight for the group was turning dangerous unpredictable, and as the great lamp went out, their world dropped out below them. Lief tried to protect the whelps as more shadows shifted in the darkness, leaving Tera to fend for herself, erroneously believing that she could handle things. That belief lasted about as long as the creature took to leap, and as white light flared behind him from the two alchemists tossing flares to combat the darkness, a flash revealed Terra in her current predicament. For a moment he hesitated, and at that moment she was devoid of spear and shield and nearly swallowed. Some internal switch flicked in the back of Leif’s mind, and leaving the alchemists and Wolves to defend the whelps (surely their mission of assassination paled in comparison to their mission of survival?) He did something he had always promised himself he’d never do. Namely, turn and fight. Leif took off at full tilt towards the towering monster, who had turned it’s back on them in order to deprive Tera of his light, and sprinted up the panels of bony armor along it’s back, using the same skills he used for lamp climbing to scale the creature. As he crested the creature’s shoulders he was confronted with groping claws attempting to seize and destroy him, but by some turn of luck he managed to dodge the flailing limbs and planted a foot squarely in the center of the creature’s face. Even before it had time to howl in anger, Leif was leaping from its nose like a pearl diver, stabbing the flaming tip of his staff squarely between its eyes in order to pole vault off it’s face towards the flying creature dragging Tera towards the dark. As the creature reacted in pain to the fire between its eyes, Leif pulled the trigger that sent a gout of oil flooding into the creature’s face, which simultaneously burst into bright being. The creature let out an almost human scream of pain as the oil caught, and its face was enveloped in fire. The flames would do little against its bony plating, however it’s six soft eyes were an entirely different matter, and even as he left, Leif thought he could hear the hiss and pop as the orbs cooked in their sockets. The leap was poorly timed and wildly overshot the flying creature, but Leif managed to drive the burning tip of his staff into the creature’s wing and drag it down the flap of skin, leaving a burning trail of weakened flesh that split as it tried to beat against the wind. The creature rocketed skyward and twisted in rage and pain, and Lief somehow found himself clinging to its underside and trying not to fall, Tera still trapped in its grip as the ground dropped away from them. He saw a flash of brilliant light as an alchemist hurled some horrible motive at an equally horrible monster, then things got complicated. The creature’s weakened wing tore down the center, sending the three of them spiraling off into the night. Trees whirled past them as the monster stumbled through the canopy, only barely able to control it’s wild flailing. It broke the canopy for one horrifying moment, then fell, dropping past trees and rocks, narrowly missing a rock formation at the edge of a ravine and plummeting towards the bottom with Lief clinging desperately and Tera just as horribly trapped. There was a flurry of leaves and thorny twigs as the creature collided with a tree, sending the two humans spiraling off into the darkness. Lief was only duly aware of a whorl of leaves, biting thorns and stabbing twigs, then a break stealing fall and a bone jarring impact that he could only assume was the ground. Somewhere nearby he heard another thud with a tinkle of metal and could only assume that had been Terra landing nearby. The forest was silent for a blessed moment, and Leif contemplated the odds of being dead and without a care. Then a dull ache in his ribs smugly informed him otherwise, and he let out a soft groan. Terra laid on the ground, her jaw clenched to keep herself from yelling out a string of profanities. She hadn't thought that she was going to get out of that mess alive, however winding up out in the middle of a pitch black forest wasn't second choice by a long shot. She had no idea if she was still with any member of the group or if she had been lifted off alone, well, that was until she heard a groan off to the side. Furthermore, she managed to sit up and look around, well, more listening than anything else, and she figured that it was the damned lamp lighter, the one that had saved her life." Well, sounds like you're still alive" she said flatly, trying to keep the fact that she was in pain out of her voice. She was cradling her right arm, the one that the creature had hold of, by some miracle it was still attached, and she had kept hold of her sword, it was sitting in her lap at the moment, but it had been viciously yanked out of its socket." As soon as you're able I need you to walk towards my voice, and then I'm going to have you put my shoulder back in place, I also ask that you don't take too long, or we won't be able to get it back into place due to the swelling, and then we're just screwed" she said to him, biting her lip to stifle a whimper as her arm shifted around. Terra closed her eyes, doing a mental catalog of herself, checking for damage as she went. Her ribs felt bruised, possibly cracked, her ass was sore, but that was because she had landed on it. She stretched a little and grimaced, it felt like either during the landing or take off that she had screwed up her left ankle, regardless, it wasn't being friendly at the moment. It was then that she started to make a mental list of what to do, they needed to find shelter, then food, water, and eventually they needed to at least find the road. From there they could make it to the city. She refused to think of what would happen to them if they didn't make it, she was just going to think of things in terms of meeting the steps that she had just laid out in her mind, she refused to give up, she damn sure wasn't going to be gotten rid of that easily. It was then that she remembered that he was still laying there." Leif, I need you to get up, please, we need to get moving before any beasties decide to come and see what all the crashing was about" she said to him as she picked up her sword and sheathed it with her left hand. Lief groaned again and opened his eyes. Then he tried to open them again, then again, panic welling up in his throat as the absolute blackness of their environment engulfed the terrified Lighter. He struggled to his feet, his breath coming rapidly and with blatant panic as he stumbled around, unable to comprehend what to do next. His fire was gone, how was he still alive? In full-fledged panic Lief ran full on into the tree they had just fallen out of and fell backwards with a stifled “of.” He lay there for a moment, thorns painfully sticking in his face and hands, the only exposed parts of his body, and stared blearily up into the blackness. There. Up in the tree, probably about twenty feet above them was the faintest hint of a flicker, a tiny, tiny point of light to cast shadows. With squirrel like movements Lief was up the tree, ignoring the stabbing thorns that were puncturing his palms as he scaled. He found his staff wedged in the crook of two branches, it’s soft copper length bent like a bow and turned at almost a ninety-degree angle near the tip. Three of the four reserve globes of oil were shattered, and the one remaining one was almost empty after having been used several times from hurling oil. Still, the merry little flame danced on the tip, by some miracle still flickering. With normal oil the flame might have lasted another hour, but with the extended alchemist creation the Keeper had gifted him, they might have a few days left to find the rest of their group. Leif snatched the staff from the tree and skittered down with only mild injuries from the trees defensive spines. It was only then that he realized she was calling to him, the strain in her voice evident. Lief was almost glad for the dark, as it hid the overwhelming shame that overtook him in realizing he had left here there, probably injured. Still, if the flame had gone out, she’d be doomed anyway. His soul snuffed with his sacred duty to carry a piece of the fire into the world black world with him.“Tera… keep talking, I’m coming.” He slowly made his way over to her, the tiny little flame dancing close to the ground as he watched for branches and roots with the hope of preventing himself from tripping. It took an agonizing several moments for him to find her, and when he did his tiny candlelight flame danced close to her face. He let out a soft gasp and set the staff in the ground, the little flame floating above their head as he felt her over, looking for serious injuries. “You don’t look too wonderful... Erh, hold still, this is going to hurt, a lot…” He pressed her dislocated shoulder to his chest and wrapped his arms around her, then with a tight bear hug he pulled her into his chest and squeezed until there was a satisfyingly painful pop. That done, Leif unbuckled a small leather case he kept strapped to his left calf and pulled out bandages and a small bottle of gray powder. “We need to immobilize your shoulder as much as possible.” He said softly as he unstrapped parts of her armor from around the injury. “Every movement you make will diminish its strength upon healing. If you move too much you won’t be able to lift a sword when all is said and done.” He stuffed the bandage cloth into the small pot and spit into it several times, using his fingers to mush the powder into a paste that quickly soaked into the cloth. He then wrapped it around her shoulder, arm, and neck several times until he was satisfied her shoulder wouldn’t move, then began blowing hard on it. A few moments later the paste hardened with an audible crackling noise until it became as rigid as steel.“Wonderful stuff the alchemists invented… hardens quickly to keep newly set bones in place.” That done, Leif gently felt his way across nearly every inch of her, checking vital spots and ensuring that she hadn’t injured anything else seriously. When he came to her ankle he hissed in sympathy and quickly unbuckled her boot. More bandages, this time wound tightly around her ankle to keep the swelling down and tied with thongs of leather to keep her ankle from moving as much as possible. “That’s a nasty sprain too.” He smeared what was left of the paste around her ankle and waited for it to harden before gently helping her back into her boot and strapping it loosely. “You’re right, we should most certainly get moving.” He gently hauled her to her feet and looped her good arm around his shoulder. “Lean on me and keep as much of your weight off that foot as you can.” With his free hand he snatched up his staff and held the flame close to the ground, partly so they could see where they were putting their feet, and partly to avoid drawing the attention of potential buggers lurking nearby. Terra was somewhat worried that the gasp she had heard from Lief had been a dying breath, but she found that she was pleasantly surprised to find that he wasn't dead, merely that he had wandered off and managed to find his staff which was some kind of miracle, that light made their chances of surviving go from none to slim, that is until she noticed that it was badly damaged and most of the oil was gone. She had been so focused on his staff she didn't even notice when he went to put her shoulder in until he put her in a bear hug and popped her shoulder into place, and it was then that she let out a noise that was somewhere between a yelp and a groan before she managed to swallow the rest of the noise. She had her jaw locked, her skin was pale, and she was sweating bullets. Furthermore, she groaned as he moved her arm in order to put it into a sling. She laid there in agony as he worked on putting the sling on, and she was still in pain as he wrapped her ankle. As Lief helped her to her feet, and they started walking she continued to pale, sweat was now rolling freely down her skin and more and more of her weight started to fall onto Lief's shoulders." You need to find us shelter, I can't travel like this, we're too vulnerable. Just fine somewhere halfway safe to put me and leave, I'm just slowing you down, you know that. Get back to the others" she says, panting hard as she started to see black spots in the small glow of light that was put off from his staff, "You need to save yourself" she managed to get out, her knees going out from under her as her full weight slumped against him. As she felt herself falling she couldn't help but wonder if he would heed her plea for him to save himself, she knew she wouldn't survive and in a strange way she would be ok with that if he survived. The last thing to ran through her head before she blacked out completely was that she hope Lief lived, for some reason she had a feeling that he was important. Leif simply gave her a look that clearly stated: don’t be stupid, and kept walking, accepting more and more of her weight as they struggled through the woods. For the thousandth time Leif cursed the eternal darkness and tapped his staff against a tree with to promote a little more oil into it, but the tiny flame was beginning to struggle, and with it Leif’s hopes of them ever leaving this place. As she collapsed He caught her, dropped his staff, and managed to catch it with his foot before the flame went out. “Oh you stupid girl.” He said with a sigh and gently let his staff fall to the ground before hoisting her over his shoulder (He wasn’t strong enough to carry her in his arms) and bent slowly to pick up his staff again. The going was slow, and Lief was having a hard time navigating the trees with her slung on his back. Several times he accidentally banged her against things. Cursing softly he would quickly retreat from the offending object, more often than not banging himself into something else. Leif traveled in the general direction he thought the road might be in, but with this blackness and no way to navigate, he was simply guessing. For an hour he hiked with her slung across him, stopping several times to set her down and catch his breath. Each time he would shed some of her armor or some of his, by far the heaviest component of his load, and hope she would forgive him for leaving it behind. His strength weaning, Leif came face to face with utter certainty that they weren’t walking out of these woods by the same way that had come. Ahead of him stood a cliff of indifferent gray stone, stretching up higher than his light could reach. That was far from a familiar obstacle. With a huff of frustration Leif hauled term back onto his aching shoulders and followed the cliff for what he figured was a mile before giving up. The road was somewhere… but he was hard-pressed to guess where. His legs growing weak, he decided a change of tactic was needed. He was NOT strong enough to carry her more than a few miles in a rest cycle, perhaps the better tactic was to find a good place to hold up and hope she woke soon. With renewed purpose Lief continued to follow the cliff till he found a large, wide crack that ran up into the darkness. It was a bit of a squeeze, but he managed to fit them both inside. The crack ran back into the rock for several yards before opening up into a long, narrow chamber about six feet across and possible thirty or so feet long. It continued further, but the crack narrowed again and passage was barred to them. With a sigh Leif set Tera down gently against the wall and quickly retreated from their shelter to look for things that may help them.********When she came to, a small fire was happily crackling in a small ring of stones, fueled by some sort of monster dung and what few sticks of more favorable wood Lief had managed to find. Dark wood was poisonous and didn’t burn, so he had had to scour the woods for more kindly trees. The dark wood had choked almost all other kinds of plant-life out, but he had somehow managed to find a kindly willow tree, whose dead wood was fueling their fire and whose bark he had used to better bind her injuries and treat her cuts and scrapes. She lay on a bed of pine needles and willow leaves, most of her clothing removed and presumable used to make the bandages that wrapped her arm, ankle, and other numerous cuts and punctures that she seemed covered in. A field knife rested on a bloody scrap of cloth next to her bed, and next to that sat a stone with an indent in it, obviously used to make pain reliever from the strips of willow bark nearby. Leif was dozing quietly on the other side of the fire. He wore bits and pieces of his and her armor and trousers covered with a pair of thick chaps cobbled together from pieces of leather armor, but his chest was bare. His staff lay next to him, the small fire at its tip snuffed out. Terra groaned as she came to, her head ached, as did most of the rest of her. The fall had definitely done a number on her. She opened her eyes and looked around to see that she was in some kind of cave-like crevice. It was open and then all of a sudden she realized that it was actually well lit. She continued to look around and found Leif leaning up against a wall, asleep. She was relieved to see that he was relatively uninjured, barring the fact that he looked exhausted. Terra felt crappy that she had passed out like that, but she could now tell that she had a set of broken ribs, ones that had been painfully twisted when she was leaning up against him, between her shoulder, ankle, ribs and the fact that she probably had a concussion from the fall she wasn't really surprised that she had passed out, although she was somewhat aggravated that she had put him through that much stress. She noticed that he was naked from the waist up, which was nothing she hadn't seen before seeing how most of the guards were men and bathing areas were shared, but it was then she noticed that the pants he wore were reinforced with scraps from both her armor and his, which made her wonder how long she had been out for him to have had the time to do that. She looked again and noticed that the flame on his staff was out, which concerned her, whether he had done it to preserve oil or it had run out she wasn't sure, but she knew that the flame on their staff or hat or what have you was extremely important to lamp lighters, and she was worried that maybe it would bother him so much that he wouldn't be much help in getting back home. Terra sat up, sitting there a moment and waiting for a bit of vertigo to pass. Once it was past she stood up slowly, and she managed to hobble her way over to where he was laying against the wall. He had taken excellent care of her while she had been out, and she just wished she could repay him. When she reached him she sat down next to him, waiting for him to rouse." I'm sorry I put you through that Leif, I wish I could've stayed awake, more than anything, but I couldn't" she said, yawning as she more or less talked to herself, "We're going to get out of this, I don't know how or when but we're going to get out of this mess alive, I promise it" she said, and she felt herself dozing off, her brain still fuzzy from her being knocked on the head while landing. She wound up falling asleep and slumping over to the side, her head landing on his shoulder. She was now snoring softly, a sign of healthy sleep rather than the complete unmoving silence of one that was out cold. It was likely that as soon as he woke she would as well. Leif’s doze ended when he became aware of her looking at him. He opened his eyes slowly and stretched to get the kink out of his muscles. One thing was for sure, he’d never complain about the beds in the lighthouse again. He spent several seconds listening to her apologizing, but blew it off with a soft smirk. “We’ll get out of here, but there’s no use repeating the mantra, the best we can do is the best we can do, and we’ll work from there. I just hope the rest of our crew has made it back to the city by now. Without a lighter there isn’t much use in continuing.” He sighed as she came over to sit next to him and gave her an annoyed face at the way she moved. “You’ve been out for more than a week, take it easy. There’s plenty enough food out in the forest if you know where to look, and it’s easy enough to dodge the big beasties when they aren’t stalking the roads looking for snacks. We aren’t going to die in here waiting for you to heal. We’ve got time to rest. Furthermore, we’re not going to make it a cycle if I have to carry you all the way back to the city.” She didn’t seem to be listening, and Leif gave an exasperated sigh but let it go. He watched her start to doze again and caught her gently as she slid towards him, bringing her down slowly against him. He gave the sleeping guard a sidelong look before letting her come to rest fully on him, the warmth of her cheek surprising for someone who had been out for so long. After a moment he propped her up, slid down into a more comfortable position, then let her rest fully against him as he tried to get back to sleep.********When she woke next Whist had collected a small medley of food, mostly small black berries that grew on the thorny undergrowth, and had fashioned a pack out of woven vines and large dark leaves. He was busy sorting and resorting the contents, and didn't notice her attention. He looked even slimmer than he had when they had first met, new nicks and scratches covering his bare chest and arms from moving within such thorny surroundings. Still, his legs were covered in thick pieces of leather, augmented with bark and other thick things he had found and bound to his body to protect himself from the undergrowth. The remains of their starting gear sat in a pile near the back of the cave, and judging by the number of things Lief had made from foresting, he was a fairly capable improviser. Her injuries had been bound with fresh bandages and covered with chewed leaves and powdered willow bark, but it was likely the bandages wouldn’t be necessary soon as the deeper cuts had almost completely healed. He had done his best to preserve her modesty, but judging but his lack of shirt and the minimal cloth that covered her, he had needed to make a lot of bandages. The fire stick crackled merrily in its little pit, and Lief seemed to be moving in time to it’s strange little rhythm. To say that Terra was exhausted when she came to would have been an understatement. She barely had the strength to sit upright and when she did finally manage to haul herself into a sitting position she was panting and shaking, having been out for as long as she had been had really messed with her strength. Her bad shoulder was still wrapped up in a sling, but it wasn't near as sore as it had been the last time she had been awake. She moved it around to find that she had a limited range of motion, but it was better than nothing. She then noticed the state of her clothing, finding that most of the cloth was gone, and she wasn't surprised, she had been out for a long time and had probably needed fresh bandages. Her state of dress didn't bother her but when she saw the food laying nearby her stomach growled savagely, and she managed to drag the platter to herself, and she ate it as though it was the nectar of the gods when it was but a few berries and nuts, but it was better than what she had, which was nothing. As she was munching away she noticed Leif sitting on the other side of the fire, seemingly locked onto the flame and swaying back and forth with it. Terra just raised an eyebrow, wondering what was wrong with him, and if he had possibly just gone off his rocker." Ummmm, Leif, are ya ok?" she asked in a raspy voice, it was dry and croaky sounding from a lack of use. It was as she was watching his swaying that she noticed his condition, he was leaner and had a variety of cuts and scratches on his torso and arms, and he seemed to be wearing rags just like she was." I don't know how long I've been out, but I feel better, just weak and hungry, do ya have any water anywhere?" she asked him, hoping her talking would break the trance that the fire had on him and that he wouldn't snap into some kind of nut. Lief blinked when he heard his name and turned to her, a small smile on his face. Yeah, fine, just... enjoying the sound of the flames. They're really the only thing I've had to keep me company." As to her question about water, he simply nodded and produced a bird's next gourde from the pack he had been organizing and moved over to crouch next to her. "Here," He said as he tilted the vessel to her lips and let the bad tasting liquid fill her mouth. "Sorry about the taste, I've had to wring the water out of moss, which doesn't exactly do much to promote the taste." When she had drank her fill he returned the gourde to his pack and sat next to her. "How do you feel? You've been out a while, but it looks like your shoulder is starting to heal, and the swelling in your ankle has gone down. I wouldn't do anything particularly acrobatic for a few months, joint injuries like that take a long time to heal fully... But, you should be able to walk fine." He took another gourde from the hot ashes near the base of the flame and offered it to her. "Juniper tea... again not much for taste, but it should help clear your throat and loosen any stiff muscles." When she had drank what she could and eaten as much food as she could stomach, he got straight to business. On the cavern wall across from where she sat there was a charcoal drawing that looked vaguely like... a blob. Leif explained that he had been trying to draw a map of their surroundings, and explained what each point on the map represented. A small mark in the upper right corner was their cavern, lines ran parallel to it on both sides of the drawing, showing where the cliffs were. They had fallen into some sort of canyon which was about a mile across and several miles long in either direction. Leif wasn't sure if there was an exit at either side, and had been unwilling to range further while she slept in the cave, fearing that something nasty would find her. There were few large predators in the canyon, leading him to believe that it was a sheltered area that likely had a narrow entrance at one end, mostly because he had seen signs of migratory herbivores which he called "Harlots."" You're going to need a few more days eating and recovering your strength, I was only ever able to give you a little food and water while you slept. I figured while you did that I could explore the rest of the canyon and find how they got in and hopefully, find how we can get out. If not we're going to need to try to climb out, which is something I'm really not looking forward to..." Terra was relieved when he answered straightaway, at least he hadn't lost his mind. She took the foul tasting water and tea and drank it, she knew it was nasty, but she also needed the water." Thank you for taking care of me while I recovered, I'm not sure how I'm ever going to pay you back, but I'll try my damnedest" she said to him, still dumbstruck that he had taken care of her. She then looked around and assessed their supplies, they were meager but manageable if they were careful. She was just happy to see that he had left her cauldrons in one piece, she was going to rebuild them and cobble them together in such a way that they would support her shoulder, but wouldn't hinder her movement. It was then that she realized the full extent of the damage that was done to his staff." I take it that you can't salvage it?" she asked him as she gestured to the copper staff. It was really a shame, it would've been invaluable. As she waited for his answer she rolled her good shoulder around in its socket and popped her neck, trying to get out all the kinks that had snuck in since she had been down and out for the count. After she had worked out the worst of the kinks she looked up at him and then down at the cast that kept her shoulder in place." You think ya can help me out of this?" she asked him as she gestured down to it, she was anxious to see what kind of range of motion she was going to have.

Jack of Lanterns (Burntheart and Rogued1)|rating:4.0

Criminal Minds_ Dead Like Them (randomname_Madam Mim)

SSA Botcher stared into his coffee. His eyes felt so heavy. He hadn't slept much on the plane and though it was 6 am back home here in Seattle the clocks all read 3, which only made him want to crawl back into bed all the more. Most of the rest of the team looked similarly tired and downtrodden, but without complaint JJ pulled the files from her bag and spread them on the table. They were summarily ignored in favor of the menus." Banana Bonanza sounds good," JJ commented, pointing to the picture before looking over to Brennan. "Want to split it with me? It looks too rich to eat on my own."" Eggs and toast, man," Morgan mumbled groggily. "Too early for that sugary crap." Across the diner, a girl called George was leaning against the wall of the booth, nursing a cup of coffee and a plate of sausages. Poor Tiffany had looked exhausted to be at work at three in the morning, and George could sympathize. She lifted her head, however, when the bell above the door tinkled and Rube walked in. She sat up as he joined her at the booth." You couldn't sleep either?" she asked tiredly. "Daisy keeps hogging the bed. She sleeps spread eagle! We really have to find her somewhere else to live. Two years, Rube. I haven't had a good night's sleep into years." George started to continue her rant, but the look on Rube's face quickly quieted her." What?" she asked, concerned and curious. "What's happened?" A light breeze brushed across Brennan's skin. The table where the team sat was dangerously close to the front door. Every time the door opened, the breeze rushed across his exposed skin on his arms and made him shiver. The rain was padding outside along with a gentle wind to give a calming feeling when there was a vicious killer on the loose. It was nice to eat together as a team, though. They often had to pull up chairs around a few chains of tables, but this nice diner had some round table for them all to crowd into booths. Brennan's stomach grumbled when JJ pointed out the Banana Bonanza to him and waited for his response. A light laugh left his lips when Morgan gave a recommendation of his own." Sure, let's split it. I don't know why, but it sounds like some weird game show where the contestants fight with bananas." It was a strange name indeed, but it looked delicious. Across the table, Dr. Spencer Reid was sitting as his eyes glanced around his team. Dr. Reid decided on Morgan's recommendation for Brennan, ordering just a couple scrambled eggs and toast. Unbeknownst to him, his plate would cost more because eggs had a sudden skyrocket in price, but it was too early to worry about the money. Even on their worst days in office, Dr. Reid was normally asleep at this time, they all were. He was rather quiet though, not giving any quirky comments or statistics or rants about anything like he normally would. As stated before, he was exhausted. The only thing interesting seemed to be some girl on the other side of the diner. Words couldn't explain it though because it was a bittersweet attraction. On one hand, his imagination quivered, wanting to speak with her. On the other hand, he felt an awful dread accompanied by that booth, though didn't think anything about it. After placing orders, Brennan kept one hand on JJ's knee, gently stroking her through the material of her pants. His fingers opened the files presented from his wife to start looking. The married couple were most awake of all the team, primarily because it's been years since they had sleep, even when they were off. JJ smiled at the visual her husband's description had conjured up. "I'm sure there's some sort of Japanese game show where that happens," she laughed, putting her hand over Brennan's on her knee. "Banana Bonanza it is."" Hey pretty boy," Morgan yawned. "You asleep too? No trivia about genetically modified bananas or something?" Hatch raised an eyebrow and he shrugged. "What? I pay attention!" Once Tiffany had brought Rube his usual, she left to go take the order of the only other table. His face was obscured by a decorative fern, even as he leaned forward on the table. With a glint in his eye that was hard to read, a combination of excitement, fear, worry, and elation, he pushed forward a plain envelope to the middle of the table. "This is it for me, Peanut," he said quietly. "My last one.”“Your last reap? Your Lights?” Georgia Lass sounded both excited and sad. Of course, she wanted Rube to get his Lights. He deserved them. But he'd become a father figure to her the past few years, and while she wanted him to be happy...she didn't want him to go. As she had lost touch more and more with her own family, the Reapers had become her family, and Rube was like a father to her.“My Lights,” he confirmed quietly with a small smile. “The name's in this envelope.”“Have you looked at it?” Rube almost laughed at how much George sounded like a child on Christmas waiting to open presents. “Open it!” The patriarch of the undead little family chuckled. He had wanted to open it alone...but for some reason, he felt even better about opening it around only George. He didn't want a lot of pomp and circumstance, opening it around everyone, but he was okay with this. Furthermore, he could share this moment with George. If he were honest with himself, he'd been more lenient with her than the others over the years—especially in the beginning—and she had probably needed an ass whooping once or twice that he hadn't given her. Maybe he spoiled her a little because he reminded him so much of his own daughter, his little Peanut.“Here goes,” he said with a nervous chuckle, sliding his finger over the envelope seal and glancing up at her in anticipation. Taking slow, deep breaths Rube slid his finger beneath the flap, causing tiny tears here and there. Inside wasn't a sticky note but an index card with a single name. Rube stared at the name for several long, very long moments. His heartbeat raced, and he had trouble swallowing.“What is it?” George asked, noticing something in his face. She took the index card from him and had just enough time to reads. Reid. Pioneer Park, Mercer Island. E.T.D. August 23rd, 1:57 am. Before he snatched it back from her. “What's wrong? It's your last reap!”“I uh...this isn't possible. There's been some mistake.”“Upper management doesn't make mistakes, do they?”“I don't know, but they have on this one. This...this isn't possible. It's not even geographically possible. I uh... I have to go. Furthermore, I have to clear this up. It's got to be a misunderstanding.” Rube's hands shook, but George still had time to see the neat writing on the index card before it disappeared into the envelope. She frowned. The name meant nothing to her, but it clearly did to him. The address had definitely been in-town, though. Georgia Lass couldn't think of a reason why it was geographically impossible that S. Reid could be in Seattle. Rube glanced at the other table, just for a split second, before walking out. His heart froze. No! Acting as though he hadn't seen, as though he didn't know, he continued out the door and walked hurriedly through the rain. He didn't want to wake her, but he didn't know where else to go. "Ugh." The young doctor grumbled. "The British soldiers in World War II were the first noted group that developed a method for staying up for long periods of time. Thirty-six hours... they would get visors that were bright, and it simulated the sun rising. That kept them awake for such a long time in the war... maybe we should do the same." After giving this useless statistic, Spencer dropped back into his half-slumber as they waited. Not only was it too early in the morning, but the service was painfully slow. Five minutes, and it seemed the toast wasn't even ready. There were no more than three tables occupied in the entire diner, but the workers seemed to just stand around, putting everyone to sleep. The faint noises of a car passing by outside every so often could be heard along with quiet murmurs around them, but nothing more than this could be heard. After hearing Spencer's comment, Morgan simply shook his head. "The Boy Wonder never fails, does he? Not even with lack of sleep. I would hate to see you when following that method. What kind of statistic could you give again?" Morgan inquired and continue to shake his head in amusement. While the two men across the table had their conversation, Brennan was in his own little world with JJ. While his eyes were glancing through the case facts and evidence, his hand still rubbed up and down her knee. He couldn't believe what he was seeing. A serial killer was mutilating bodies and hanging the at the crime scenes as some sort of show it seemed. He didn't need to see the visuals before his Banana Bonanza arrived. He preferred that visual instead. Closing the manila folder, he shifted his focus to his wife. "How do you continue to look so gorgeous after only a few hours of sleep?" He whispered, a coy smile spreading on his face. He never failed to show her affection and love in public or in private. A gentle kiss was pressed to her cheek and he exhaled a happy little breath. Prentiss and Rossi just exchanged glances and grinned. The team was used to these actions now because it had been seven years that they were married. Their work performance never suffered, and it was nice to see happiness early in the morning like this. It seemed to be one of the few relationships that had success within the members of their line of work, but it really was reassuring to see. JJ couldn't help but smile when Reid rattled of his useless fact. He really never did fail. Her smile grew wider as Brennan whispered in her ear and she leaned her head against his. In truth, she was incredibly tired, but with the way he made her feel it didn't really matter as much. She flipped her own folder shut, tired of looking at the pictures and wondering why it had taken four bodies for somebody to call them in." Same way you do, I--" JJ cut herself off and snapped her head up. Her mouth opened and closed wordlessly for a few moments before she scooted her way out of the booth and to the door. "Gideon?" She jogged a few steps in the rain as Gideon glanced over his shoulder before picking up the pace. She wanted to call after him...but he was gone. Already disappeared into the early morning. Frowning and damp, she trudged back into the diner and slid into her seat. She looked around at the others with a significant look, confused and hurt. "Guys... I think I just saw Gideon."~*~There was a pounding at the door. It's just a dream. More pounding. Then the doorbell. The alarm clock on the nightstand read 3:27 am. Why? Groaning, she rolled out of bed and pulled on a nightgown before answering the door. She could barely lift her groggy expression into a surprised one." Rube?" Evangelineblinked at him blearily." I have to talk." Rube pushed his way past her and made himself comfortable in her living room, kicking off his shoes at the door." Come on in," she mumbled before closing the door. "Tea?""No, thanks." He looked up at her through the kitchen pass-through as she shuffled around, making some for herself. "I got my last name." This was enough to startle her out of her sleepy stupor for a moment. "Your last name? Your lights? That's wonderful news!"" No it isn't."" It isn't?"" S. Reid." Her expression fell. ’S. Reid? ThatS. Reid, the one from Quantico?" Rube nodded. She sat down as the kettle warmed up. "I'm so sorry, Rube. But why are you here?"" See how it happens! Use your Gift! Tell me a way to stop it!" Evangeline sighed and shook her head. "You know that's not how it works, Rube. I can't just do it like that."" Well at least use it to protect him?"~*~It was a very long morning for everyone. In the night there had been another murder, to which Morgan and Reid had been sent. The officer on scene had briefed them while civilians looked on behind the police tape. Morgan glanced up several times, frowning each time." Hey Pretty Boy, looks like you got a fan there," he pointed out quietly, nodding slightly. "Been staring at you for about twenty minutes now." When JJ snapped her head up and just ran out the diner, Brennan was quick to follow her. Just as always, he tried to keep her in the sights. After reading what this new case was about, he didn't want her running out on the streets alone at three-thirty in the morning. "Gideon?" He asked while he followed behind of her through the rain. It started to become heavier by the moment and the sound of the rain hitting the ground. "Where? I didn't see him..." He asked quietly and just shook his head, leading her back inside to the diner.---While Derek Morgan and Dr. Spencer Reid were on the crime scene, the remainder of the team was settling in at the local police station where the lead investigator that called them in, Alex Whit low, was talking to them. The man was short and stocky with a deep, gruff voice. He spoke very little and only said what he had to say. His assistant, Tina, showed the BAU team the conference room that was cleared for them. It was a room that was presented with four white walls that were very bland and non-decorative. Outside, the hustling and bustling of the officers were unruly and loud, trying to gather whatever information they can. Whomever this unknown subject was, he or she did not discriminate. With the five victims, there was no consistency of race, gender, or location. There seemed to be no connections between the victims but there had to be some. Victimology was the most important thing in the early part of an investigation. As always, a few officers were disgruntled that the team was here, railroading the investigation as they said, though that wasn't true. However, the officers that were happy for their assistance, were upset that this team full of expectations was sitting in an office talking. Minutes passed and while no connections were made, the team was split up. Prentice and Hatch would be going to visit the family of the third victim to talk and see if they can gather any information. Rossi was going to visit a couple of the crime scenes while Brennan and JJ would visit the parents of the fourth victim, a white woman aged twenty-eight, Lisa Craig. The address was about twenty minutes away and every second was important, so they were all quickly on the way to do their duty. Like always, Brennan and JJ received some strange glances, seeing the agents holding hands as they walked. No one understood, but no one needed to understand. At the crime scene, Dr. Reid was more focused on the crime scene than anything else. The smell was gut-wrenching as body parts were hanging from the front porch. It made him sick to smell and see it, and it made him feel even worse that civilians would be there watching. When Morgan commented on a fan, he glanced over and made eye contact with her for a brief moment." Well, we have a job to do. Not sure why anyone would be a fan though. Maybe she's really looking at you. We're right beside of each other, and it all depends on your perspective." He rambled, slowly approaching the porch, not giving the woman another thought for the moment, though that would surely change later. JJ signed in the passenger's seat as they drove to the address they'd been given. "So we've got Lisa, white, female, twenty-eight; Morris, black, male, fifty-two; Rachel, Hispanic, female, fourteen; Tom, white, male, thirty-seven; and now Mary, Asian, female, sixty. It's like this unsub is varying their victimology on purpose." She scowled and looked over at Brennan. "What sort of person is conscious of that? Law enforcement maybe?" It made no sense and honestly made her nauseated. She hated looking at these pictures, and she was dreading talking to Lisa Craig's parents. This whole case just didn't feel right, and then with Gideon showing up then running from her...she didn't like it. Not at all. She ran her fingers through her hair as she thought over the facts of the case again. There had to become connection. There just had to." Mrs. Craig, did your daughter know any of these people?" JJ handed over pictures of the other victims--while they were alive--to Lisa's mother. The older woman was still crying, held by her husband, and shook her head when she looked at the pictures." No, not that I know of," she squeaked out before handing the pictures to Mr. Craig, who also shook his head. "Why? Are they dead, too?"~*~"No, she's definitely watching you," Morgan answered with a sly smirk. Derek had to distract himself with things like this, especially with crimes this grisly. The intestines had been wrapped around the handrail on the porch like a garland; he had to usesomethingto take his mind off of the sort of sicko who would do something like this. He glanced up occasionally and the woman's eyes never wavered from Spencer. He glanced up once more, however, and she wasn't watching the scene but instead talking in low tones with..." Gideon?" Morgan straightened up from what he was doing, but he wasn't fast enough. Gideon had already disappeared into the crowd. Scowling, he strode up to the police line and stood squarely in front of the onlooker. "Where did Gideon go?" he demanded, folding his arms across his chest." My friend is free to come and go as he pleases, Agent Morgan," she answered calmly, looking him in the eyes. It was unsettling, really." I'm sorry, what was your name?" He pulled out a pad of paper and a pen, ready to have her arrested for obstruction of justice if need be. He didn't get a good feeling from her." Evangeline Tanner, that's Tanner with two n's and an e," Evangeline replied calmly. "My number is 206-555-3847, and I live at 14 Bathurst Lane. Do you need my social security number, too, or is that enough to run a background check?" She looked up at him as he wrote everything down and even smiled a little. "I could let you copy down my driver's license number?" she offered as an afterthought." That'll be fine Miss Tanner, but I'm going to have to ask you to leave. Now." Morgan glared down at her, but it didn't seem to have much of an effect. Evangeline just shrugged." Alright then. I'll see you later, Agent Morgan."" Is that a threat?" Evangeline had started to turn on her heel but stopped halfway and looked over her shoulder. "Think of it more as an appointment," she said with a small smile. "Have a good day, Agent." With that she disappeared out of the crowd, leaving Morgan scowling after her until he went to continue processing the scene. "Think maybe our unsub is a woman?" he posed grumpily. During the drive towards the latest victim's parents' house, Brennan thought about the case carefully. Perhaps the killer did change the victimology on purpose. Law Enforcement did sound reasonable, but he didn't know. How many branches of law enforcement or any kind of knowledge with the term of victimology? He didn't have any clue at all but that would require research. He didn't know if was law enforcement or not, it was simply a theory. Brennan apologized to the family for the loss of their child though there was no way he could make anything better. The way their daughter was killed was just terrible, and he doesn't know how they can cope with it. Parents shouldn't bury their children, it's just not right. After talking with the parents about Lisa, JJ and Brennan found out that she was a writer for a local newspaper. She handled the section for cooking and recipes. It was hard to fathom someone killing her about recipes. So far the victims seemed random, but killings like this had to have a connection, he assumed. A few more questions about her daughter's life and JJ and Brennan were done. They were back on the road, going to the local police station again. All the other interviews turned out the same results, and they were nowhere.---Spencer noticed the sudden change in Morgan's voice when he spoke about Gideon. He raised his eyebrow and looked at the crowd and didn't see him. It was crazy how calm this woman seemed when questioned by Morgan. Spencer couldn't have done this. Hell, he could barely talk to a woman that looked so pretty. Plus, she had been eyeing him, just like Morgan told him. "An appointment?" He murmured and looked down at her as she walked away. Shaking his head, he sighed as they returned to the crime scene." I don't know if this is a woman or not. Do you think it's her? She's not really implanting herself in the investigation... though maybe she could be admiring her work? I don't know." He murmured and threw his hands up in the air. Inspecting the scene, he saw the four limbs, hanging from each post on the front porch. It was totally disgusting and sick. Truly, Spencer needed something to distract himself too so he started to talk. "Well, maybe if she is our unsub, we can take her in, and I can interrogate her... find out why she is such a big fan." he said with a little chuckle, hoping it would ease his mood too." God... how could anyone be possible of this?" He finally murmured while taking a look. It all continued inside the house as well, blood all over the walls and other intestines and guts decorated everywhere. However... there was a small problem." Morgan... where's the head?" He whispered, realizing that was the only missing body part. "Think maybe they could be connected to the newspaper somehow?" JJ posed as they drove back to the station. She shook her head. "Never mind. We'll have to get there before we can do the research on it. But we can try that; the newspaper, or culinary arts, or maybe even just writing in general." She sighed and shook her head again. "This is just so frustrating! There's absolutely nothing we can gain traction with. All we know is the MO." Back at the station JJ felt like they might be of a bit more help. They were able to go through the victim files, put pictures up on the board, break out the map. It felt like getting visuals up helped, but ultimately she still felt like they were spinning their wheels. Late in the afternoon the police chief poked his head into their war room." Any ideas, agents?" he asked hopefully, looking at the spread they'd put out on the boards.~*~"Nah she's not inserting herself yet," Morgan admitted. "But admiring her handiwork is a distinct possibility." At the suggestion that they have Reid interrogate her, however, he looked sideways and raised an eyebrow. "You know that's not a bad idea," he admitted. "If we have probable because we can bring her in." Morgan followed Reid inside, looking around and trying to ignore his roiling stomach. He checked every nook and cranny and almost every square inch of the place had a speck of blood or entrails. Several times he had to cover his mouth and take a few deep breaths to keep himself from vomiting. Then he heard it. He'd known something felt off, and he looked around at Spencer." The head?" he repeated. He thought back and couldn't remember finding a head either. Without another word he strode out and pulled aside the lead local investigator. "Was anything taken off the crime scene?"" Uuhh..."" Anything at all, so much as a shoelace?" Morgan was starting to lose his patience." No, not that I'm aware of."" And you didn't catalog a head?" The officer looked bewildered. "N-no..." Walking back in but wishing he didn't have to, Morgan carefully made his way through the house to find Reid again. "Reid, you've looked through the case files. Were there any other missing body parts from the other scenes?" The sound of fidgeting agents bouncing ideas back and forth against one another filled the small conference room where the BAU team was organized. Brennan adjusted his shirt sleeve and tapped his finger on the glass table, trying to think of something. The longer they worked on this case, it seemed the less ground was made. Absolutely no connections would be found. Brennan felt so frustrated and confused on how the killings were random. All the killings were so personal and in the victim's house. Maybe the unsub just needed to kill and mutilate to feel complete. Maybe sexual release? He had no idea what else it could be." So, if these killings are truly random, what are we supposed to warn people about? I don't think we can find too much on victimology on this case. Let's look at our unsub, about the personality. What about gender? I don't know what we can do with gender or race because the victims are so diverse. We have nothing and the killer is still at large!" Rossi exclaimed, clearly disgruntled along with everyone else about the entire situation.---When Morgan asked Spencer about missing body parts, the boy genius began to think hard. "The first two victims were missing a leg each. The third and fourth victim were missing an arm each... this fifth victim is missing their head. Oh god, what's next? The torso? God... this unsub is sick." Spencer murmured and shook his head in frustration and disgust before running to the side door and vomiting. It finally hit him. The smell, the visual images. It was nasty. Morgan approached Spencer to check on him and nearly lost it himself. "Let's get back to the station and see if anyone else figured out anything. I'm not sure what else we can do here. Maybe the missing body parts can help in some way." He shrugged, touching his arm to lead him away from the crime scene and under the tape." Do you think we really need to take her in?" Spencer whispered, looking at Evangeline for a brief moment as they walked towards the SUV. Maybe it would indeed be a good idea. "We don't have probably caused...yet," Morgan admitted. "Being a creepy bastard at a crime scene isn't illegal so long as you're behind the tape." Still, just in case he raised his phone and snapped a picture just in time to catch her smiling and waving as she watched them walk to the SUV. The ride back to the police station was quiet. Morgan had worked very hard to keep from vomiting himself while back at the scene, and he kept mulling over the evidence in his head. The more he thought about it, the more that seemed to be where this was heading. But why? And why the display like that? It made his gut churn just thinking about the reasons this sicko would have to do what he (or she) was doing. He was so lost in his own thoughts he didn't speak to Reid until they were back at the station." Anyone see what these things have in common? Or rather, what they don't?" Morgan slid each of the autopsy pictures onto the table. Each body was assembled in roughly the shape a normal body would, sans limbs, with entrails in a bowl beside them. It was always somehow less disturbing on an autopsy table than it was out in the field." They're each missing limbs," Botcher mused, hiseyebrowsfurrowing as he leaned forward on the table. "I presume the head is missing off of the latest victim?"" You presume right," Morgan confirmed. "So the unsub is...building a body." Saying it aloud made him even queasier. "It's not much, but it's a start to a profile. Andwe've got a suspect." He slid his phone to the middle of the table too, so everyone could see the picture he'd taken. "Evangeline Tanner. Technically we can't bring her in yet, but she waswaytoo interested in what we were doing out there. Plus she gives me the creeps." Dr. Reid was confident that the unsub's need to build a body had to have some kind of connection. While he was in deep thought, he thought he figured something out. "I might have an idea...." He mused and added. "Our unsub is a woman." Just as he expected, this got him some strange looks. A woman torturing and mutilating these people? That has to be absurd! So he explained. "All autopsies showed trace amounts of three different drugs. Singled out, they don't make an impression but combined they make for a good knock out punch. I believe she sneaks up in her victim's homes that only have one person living there and is a low risk house with no lights, no guard dogs, and no security system sign. That has been consistent. I think the fact that she mutilates them may be some form of her revenge. I believe she was heavily abused as a child, maybe both parents. Maybe not physically by them both, but emotionally by many people. She has to be smart to combine these drugs. Maybe a pharmacist or family doctor. She may not seem like a threat at first, maybe she's' petite, and she is good at hiding emotions. They're building a body is important. Maybe she believes she can build the perfect protector for her since she never had a figure to love in her life. She will probably be single and have no contact with anyone." After Spencer said this, everyone looked around. It did make sense and a woman serial killer was odd to see, but when they were around, the killings usually were brutal and based off past events and tragedies. "Maybe we have enough for a good start on a profile. Get Garcia to run a search on women that live in the area, and are either a pharmacist or family doctor that had a big tragedy in their life." Hatch spoke up while Morgan called her, getting her to run the search. "Hey Baby Girl.""Oh, you know how much I love to hear from my Chocolate Adonis." Garcia's grin was audible even over the phone. "What can I do for you, my sweet?"" We think we may have a lead. I need you to run a background check on single women in Seattle. Narrow it down to pharmacists and family doctors who suffered loss or abuse," Morgan instructed. "Oh and uh...take a look at this chick. Evangeline Tanner." He listed off her address, and it only took a few seconds for Garcia to pull her up." Nothing. She's clean."" What? Nothing at all?"" Not even an overdue library book or parking ticket." Garcia shook her head, looking through her files. "Lives alone, never married...oh. Her official occupation is as medium." She sounded rather skeptical at that. "But hey, she pays her taxes and bills like every other law-abiding citizen. Nothing inherently pinky about her. Why? Got a hunch?" Morgan sighed. "She was just being creepy as shit at a crime scene today was all. Anyway, get those other names back to us asap please?"" Your wish is my command!"" Thanks Baby Girl." Morgan hung up and looked back to the team, unsure what to do from here until Garcia got those names to them. "That creepy lady...think we ought bring her in?"" The woman you took a picture of on your phone?" JJ asked, looking through a window. "She's already here." Indeed, Evangeline was outside talking with the police chief, smiling and talking with her hands animatedly. The chief looked relieved, but also defeated and a bit embarrassed. Then she was pointed in the direction of the war room. Spencer felt a chill run up and back down his spine when he heard that Evangeline Tanner was already here at the station. What was it about this woman that bugged him? "I really don't like her... she kept eyeing Reid today at the crime scene. Not looking at him in an admiration way, it was a creepy way like I said." Morgan added while Spencer turned to look at her. Before she began walking towards the room, Spencer cleared his throat. "I'll go speak to her and see what she will say." After making the quiet announcement, he slipped away, out of the war room and met her before she could arrive." Can I help you, Miss Tanner?" Spencer questioned with a curious look on his face. His tone was just as questioning as the facial expression. Emotions of confusion, frustration, and misunderstanding were running through his body. They had a serious case here, a deranged woman that was killing and slicing up the victim's bodies. He didn't have time for this and neither did the BAU team. While Spencer was trying to understand this woman, Derek Morgan stood up and slipped out of the door as well. Morgan was just as curious to see what she had to say as Spencer was. Perhaps they would really take her into interrogation. Garcia called back and Prentice answered, setting her on speakerphone for everyone to hear. About one dozen women fit the profile, and it would take some investigating and digging, but perhaps they could narrow it down further." What's our next step?" Hatch asked, no one in particular. "Should we all split up and talk to all of these women? What else can we profile about our unsub that can help us narrow it down? Let's all look through these profiles of these women." Everyone was handed a print out of the profiles of women for everyone to keep searching for more information. Evangeline wasn't phased. Her gaze shifted serenely from Spencer to Morgan, then back to Spencer. She'd have been surprised if she'd been met with anything other than hostility and mistrust, but the negative energy was really bringing down her mood. Instead, she smiled, sending positive energy their way in an attempt to put them more at ease." Yes, you can share the case details with me," she said simply. "Chief Journos called me in. He said that even the feds are spinning their wheels, so they need all the help they can get. As a medium I can be as low-profile as you need me to be. And Chief isn't happy to have me on this case either, so don't think any less of him." This was added mostly to Morgan. "Oh, and call me Evangeline." She stepped past the profilers, but sensed an increase in hostility from Agent Morgan and turned on her heel again. "Interrogate me first if you want, Agent," Evangeline offered. "But our mutual friend is concerned and also wants me on this." There was a meaningful look in her eyes as she waited for Morgan to either drag her into the interrogation room or allow her to continue to help them. None of this was making any sense to either Morgan or Reid. Well, maybe it made a little bit of sense when she was at the crime scene. However, that was contradicted with the fact of her just staring right at Reid the entire time. Reid couldn't piece the pieces of the puzzle together and it bothered him. When she asked about interrogation, Morgan opened his mouth to speak, but no words left his lips. Turning his head, he looked at the chief whom just threw his hands up to show he didn't like it, but it was a fact that she'd be on this case." Go on in..." Agent Morgan grumbled and let her step inside. Everyone immediately stopped speaking when they watched this blonde girl walk into the war room. Everyone had a shocked and surprised looked, unsure of what was going on. "Everyone, meet Evangeline Tanner... the local police force is giving us a medium to help us solve this case... apparently we can't do this job without magic." he muttered, clearly upset with the idea. Spencer approached his chair but noticed that it was the only seat. So instead, he turned to this woman that made his stomach twist in knots while making his heart skip a few beats all in the same minute and offered her the chair. "You can sit here, I'll stand." He informed her and stepped away, refusing to take no for an answer. No one knew what to say now, and all eyes were on Evangeline, waiting as if she were about to explain herself or owed them something about her presence on this case. "Thank you." Evangeline smiled graciously and stepped in. The fact that everyone was staring at her didn't go unnoticed, neither did Morgan's comment about magic. She looked surprised but thanked Spencer as she took the chair, feeling a little guilty that she'd taken the last one. She couldn't keep glancing over at him sometimes, having a hard time believing that he would be dead in a week. Still the staring didn't stop. Evangeline sighed and addressed them all. "Look, I know you don't want me here. The cops don't want me here. I know some of you think I'm a straight-up fraud," she looked pointedly at Rossi, "or that I'm here because the locals don't think you're doing your job. I'm sincerely just here to help. Furthermore, I'm not here for profit or fame or any of that; I've asked my name be left out wherever it possibly can. But there's a murderer in my city and I want it to stop. I can help. I'm not asking you to like me, I'm just asking you to keep an open mind and not dig your heels in just for the sake of trying to prove me wrong." There was another pointed look at Rossi. What she hadn't picked up from Seeing and his aura she'd heard from Rube, and she knew he was likely to be stubborn and unwilling to believe in her abilities." If nothing else, I'm another set of hands and eyes. May I see that, please?" she pointed to one of the papers JJ was holding." Uh...sure..." With a dubious look at Brennan, she handed over the list they had just gotten of possible unsubs." She's not any of these," she said, setting aside the paper after a few moments. Rossi scoffed and Evangeline just looked over at him calmly. "Go through all the files manually if you want. I'm telling you that none of these women are murderers. Well, this one is." She pointed to a name on the list. "But I personally find that woman beaters and wife rapists tend to deserve it." Shrugging, she handed that list to Rossi, knowing he'd want to go through it. Spencer Reid incredulously listened to Evangeline give her claims about being a medium. Just as she thought, Rossi was very unbelieving of this and already started to voice his opinion. "So, let me get this straight please. You don't want us to say your name unless we have to... you can just look at those profiles and make a magic determination that none of them are our unsub. Can you just go ahead and communicate with the dead or whatever the hell that a medium does? Go ahead, do something and tell us where to find our unsub. I don't have time for this shit. We have a murder, a serial killer on the loose. Do you realize what she is doing to these victims? How do we know it's not you? This kind of killer likes to put themselves in the middle of an investigation and I heard you were hanging out around the crime scene today. You don't work for the police, you have no place here. Who even hired you to do this? If the cops don't want you hear, I don't know how the hell you got here." After finishing up his rant Rossi huffed loudly and stormed out, probably to go speak to a superior. Out of the entire team Ross was definitely the least believing. After he stormed out, Spencer just sighed to himself and Morgan started speaking now. "She has some connection to Gideon. JJ, you said that you saw Gideon this morning at the diner, and now I saw him at the crime scene. What are you not telling us Evangeline? Forgive us for acting so hostile, but you are expecting us to believe a medium is going to walk up in hear and do our jobs? What the hell are you expecting? You better tell us anything and everything you know. You're right, we don't have to like you and we won't like you. But we do have to trust you. So why should we trust you? What about your line of work can be any reason for trusting?" Brennan figured that a good point was brought up by Morgan. She had to validate their trust in her, to figure out why they should put their lives on the line to apprehend someone based on her judgment. They were all rational and all skeptical. Evangeline opened her mouth several times to answer Rossi's questions, but it was clear he didn't want them answered. She opened her mouth again to speak once he'd left, but then was cut off by Morgan. It was obvious they thought she was a fraud at best, and the energy in the room was enough to have been overwhelming had she been less experienced with such hostility. As it was, she kept her mouth shut and watched Morgan as he piled on to Rossi's ranting. Sitting back in her chair she folded her arms across her chest." Are we done berating me now?" she asked testily, a little bit of the calm slipping from her voice. "I've worked with this department before, which is why the Chief brought me in on this one. The difference is the last time I worked with them, it was a missing persons case. This is...quite different." She leaned her elbows on the table, looking around at all of them. "Yes, I do have a connection to our mutual friend. He's concerned. That's why he encouraged met check out this case. I don't think I can do your jobs, in fact I'm quite certain I couldn't. I admire what you do, and I'm not here to undermine that. Furthermore, I'm here to look through what you have and maybe sense things that you wouldn't be able to know from looking at all this." She gestured to the wall of pictures and maps without looking at it. The pictures alone made her queasy. "If I find I can't be of help to you, I'll excuse myself from this case. However, I've been Seeing things for months, although it's difficult sometimes to differentiate between Seeing and dreaming. I don't claim to have any sort of magic powers." She looked at Morgan. "I'm not special. I'm not anything anyone else couldn't be; I just happen to be morereceptiveto the Universe at larger than most, so it speaks to me. How else would I know that she's building a body? Coming in cold onto this case, how would I know that her birthday is this month, though I can't pinpoint when, and that she suffered a horrible trauma at the hands of someone who was supposed to protect her? She had an older sibling--brother or sister, I don't know--who I haven't Seen in quite a while. I don't know if they're dead or just not in her life anymore, but all of that to me sounds like a lot of different... What do you call them? Triggers." Evangeline's tone became a little terse as she looked around at them, particularly Morgan. "So yes, I can confidently say that those women on that list are not her. There's twelve of them: based on the sibling factor alone there are five only children, six eldest, and one middle child. That middle child happens to be the one who killed her husband, though like I said she was a battered woman, and honestly I don't blame her in the least." She shrugged and leaned back, her tone light. "So you can all remain skeptical and mean and let me sit here twiddling my thumbs, you can fact-check those women and still decide to be hostile because I somehow had all of their information memorized before you even had this list, or you can cut the hostile work environment and let me help. It's entirely up to you. Myconcern is for this team and for the civilians out there getting brutally murdered. Is your collective pride more important than that?"JJ exchanged a look with Brennan. She honestly didn't know what to thing. Shewantedto believe Evangeline...but everything in her experience had told her otherwise. How was this woman wrapped in scarves and beads supposed to help withanythingexcept maybe giving grieving relatives closure with some phony seance? Dr. Reid couldn't help but feel a bit sad about this entire situation. His eyes were watching Evangeline the entire time, and he saw her wanting to answer the questions but Rossi and Morgan kept hammering away. As much as he felt the urge to speak up and just get his team to back off, he kept quiet. It just wasn't like him to interject in the middle of a conversation unless he got very angry, which honestly didn't happen that often. All he did now was stand in his little corner and wait for the ranting and raving of his colleagues to subside. To be honest, they really didn't give the woman a chance to speak and that was so incredibly rude, but everyone was just so stressed about this case. Honestly, they don't have too much information right now so Spencer didn't think it could do that much damage to hear her out. Now... only if he could voice his opinion, but he was way too soft-spoken and timid to talk in the middle of a heated battle. When the blonde woman spoke, he knew she was losing her patience. "Alright then. Tell the universe to speak to you and find our killer. What do you expect me to tell the families, huh? That we have a psychic woman working on the case to catch who killed your son, daughter, brother... you don't understand. People don't accept this. Maybe you have your own way of solving things, and maybe you could be of help in some odd way, but I don't believe in any supernatural powers. In my opinion, you are a fraud. I'm not sure why the Chief allowed you here. This doesn't make any sense. You-""Enough!" All heads turned to the sudden outburst. To everyone's surprise, it was in fact the doctor himself interjecting. Never before had he been so bold. Sometimes he would do this but never doing something while a team member was speaking and pissed off. It got even worse after the incident with Maeve. He became quiet and dreary as he was on the first day when he didn't know anyone on the team. Needless to say, all eyes were on him now. "Just leave her alone and let her speak. She brings up good points, okay? Face it, we are nowhere. Let's just get Garcia to run the fact check on these women like she said. While Garcia does that, let Evangeline work with us and give her input. A fresh set of eyes never hurts and there has been scientific proof that her kind exist. No one person is ever the same, especially when it comes to the brain. The mind is a crazy thing, so who are we to say she's a fraud? We don't have any proof that she's a fraud. Let's give her some space to work." Even though Spencer was very calm and rational about explaining things, Morgan just huffed and rolled his eyes. "Fine." He muttered and walked towards Evangeline, looking into her eyes. "But the minute I think you are sabotaging this investigation with some horse shit magic dreaming of yours, I'm taking you out. I don't care what the chief says or what your boyfriend says, you're gone." Of course, he knew Spencer and Evangeline weren't boyfriend and girlfriend, it just felt appropriate to say. After that, he was out of the room too. It was all awkward and quiet in the meeting room now and Spencer just sighed. "Sorry about that... he's a hot heat sometimes..." Spencer told her and then turned to JJ. "Okay, can you go ahead and present the files on the projector so she can look at it?" He asked before taking the handheld pictures and writing that she could compare too and sliding it beside of her. "There you go..." he said softly, even offering her a gentle smile before taking one of the vacant seats while everyone tried to shift their focus back to the case. Evangeline felt her temper rising as Morgan started in on her once more. What bothered her even more was that Spencer wanted to say something, she could feel it, but he appeared to lack the courage. She opened her mouth to argue back, but was caught just as off-guard as everyone else when Reid's voice cut through the air. She looked around, startled. Still, it was nice to have someone on her side, even if he didn't believe in the supernatural. At least he was treating her with the same amount of respect he'd show any other human being. She could understand why Morgan and Rossi had taken such an instant dislike to her, but to attack her like that really was unnecessary." Thank you, Doctor Reid," she put in when he told Morgan to back off. "Oh, I learned that from the internet by the way. Not the Universe," she added snidely to Morgan. Evangeline met his gaze defiantly as he threatened her, not backing down because she frankly only had one thing to hide...that she knew one of them would be dead soon. A light flush rose to her cheeks as he called Reid her boyfriend. The awkward silence stretched once he left. Spencer apologized and she shook her head." I've met plenty of people who think I'm a fraud," Evangeline insisted with a dismissive wave. "If I let everyone who told me so convince me that I was, I would have closed myself off to the Universe anyway."JJ nodded. "Yeah, sure Spence." She was still stunned by both Morgan and Rossi's rudeness and Spencer's outburst. She noticed the way Spencer took a softer tone with Evangeline and his general body language and exchanged a look with Brennan. "So we've got five victims now, all of different race, age, gender, and economic background. Nothing in their lives ties them together; work, social life, nothing. Any ideas?" Evangeline smiled at Spencer as he handed her the files before looking through them. Immediately she felt her gorge rise and closed the file again, covering her mouth with her hand. "She's building a protector," she pointed out once she could speak again. "Race, age, none of that matter. The parts she took...they were all for different reasons." She gestured to the teenager's file. "This one was on the track team; strong legs, fast runner. Then you have a muscular younger guy...and a mother," she slid out the respective files. "One arm each: a strong one to hurt, a softer one to nurture." She turned her eyes first to Spencer, then the rest of the team. "Enough of an idea for you?" Obviously, Spencer knew that she must have been met with much hostility wherever she went no matter what. It wasn't either often that someone would take to lightly with the idea of someone being a medium. All Spencer's faith in any supernatural forces all went away after Maeve's death. It was like this universe laughed in his face, not giving him any chance. Little did he know that his time was nearing an end within a week. When JJ spoke about the case, Spencer was so relieved that she went ahead to tell her about the case. Spencer nodded when Evangeline gave her reasoning and her method behind what everything meant. "Yes, that's what we were thinking so it's safe to say she's building some protector. I wonder if she's actually trying to put this body together somehow. But we don't know. Do you have an idea what kind of tragedy might have caused this though? What kind of trigger? Any family is different so not all protectors are the same though commonly, the woman's protector is a father or brother or a male figure. Perhaps it was one of these two main figures. What do you think?" He asked, sitting back and shaking his head while he thought. It was clear that she really wasn't their unsub. How could she do something like this when she nearly got sick with the pictures? He knew Rossi and Morgan would still think it's her though, not understanding how she could tell this from the Universe. While they kept looking, Brennan was in his own world and trying to think. "I think that maybe the separate body parts mean something. She could just have easily done something to kidnap or kill a person to fit the protector she wanted, but she chose to take only body parts. Maybe she wants to build the perfect protector, or maybe it's something else? What do you guys think?" Brennan asked no one in general, eyes darting around as he tried to make sense of it. If they could understand why she did this, they would be that much closer to catching her. Evangeline closed her eyes and took a deep, slow breath. She frowned slightly, trying to recall the details she'd seen. Many of them had been while she was asleep, so she'd dismissed it as a dream until Rube had shown up at her door. There was a clown...the smell of cheap candles...then pain. Unimaginable pain. A belt. Shaking her head she opened her eyes again." Something to do with her birthday," she said with a hopeless shrug. "That's all I can patch together right now. I'd have to look back at my journal entries for the details...but it was a traumatic day for her. She was very young...there was a clown. A really creepy one." Evangeline pulled a face. "I imagine she may have taken the abuse for the older sibling...that's generally the reverse of how things work, isn't it?"" She's definitely building the perfect protector," JJ agreed when Brennan voiced his opinion. "But itcouldbe guarding something else. Religious delusions maybe?"" If she was particularly religious and is undergoing a psychotic break that could be likely," Hatch agreed. He still wasn't entirely certain what to do with this unexpected new team member. Just after Hatch spoke, Garcia called. "Listen up my pretties... I ran a background check on all those women and none of these will be your unsub. A few have jobs and some have moved on out-of-state so it's unlikely that this will be your woman.""Thanks, Garcia, we'll contact you later with more information." Hatch added and clicked off." You know, there are some pagan rituals that say if one would collect body parts and sew them together, that they body would come to live during a full moon... and the next full moon is in a week. With that being said, if this was religious then she might be striking again, but I don't know how we can assure that she is using this ritual." Spencer mused and scratched his head. It was a surprise to everyone that Evangeline was right. It did well to earn her the trust at least a little bit from the members in the room with her that witnessed it first hand. "Okay... can you go and get your journal? We need specific details." Prentice spoke and looked at the blonde medium. If she was right with these women, then perhaps if she found her journal, they could narrow down the specifics of what this woman went through and could help their search become easier and more efficient. Evangeline chewed on her lip a little when Spencer suggested it could be a Pagan ritual. She'd had to try very hard not to look smug when the voice on the other side of the phone proved her right. "Maybe. I mean, I've heard of rituals like that, but I've never heard of them actually working. I've never really known anyone to try it either, though." There was something nagging at the back of her brain...just out of reach. And her thought process was interrupted by Prentice. She looked up, frustrated at the loss in concentration, and nodded. "Yeah, sure I can go get it. Um...someone want to give me a ride, though?" Evangeline looked around the room, attempting not to look at Reid any longer than anyone else. "I walked here, and I'm sure you all have a sense of urgency." "I'll do it." Spencer was the first one to speak up from the team. It just made sense. Perhaps it would make things less hostile for her. If anyone else drove her home, it would probably be full of accusations and insults and anger through the whole ride on part of the BAU member. After stepping up, he leads Evangeline out quickly. While he was on the way out, he passed Rossi and Morgan was soon behind. The latter just shook his head at Spencer as he knew that he was giving the woman a ride. As she was gone, Rossi and Morgan entered the room. "She's right. The chief wanted her in with us... we have nothing to do except let her tag along." Rossi sighed and sat down in his seat." So where does that leave us now?" He asked with a shrug, sitting down in his chair as they wait. It was getting quite late at night, and they didn't know where they should go next. They have about all the information they can collect from the evidence they have, but they are no closer to finding this woman until Evangeline would read her journal and get to them. Evangeline smiled and stood. "Thanks." She walked out with him, ignoring the dirty looks from Rossi and Morgan. She knew what they thought, and she didn't care." So your team..." Evangeline said after a few minutes in the car. "They're ah...a lot more hostile than I thought they would be. What makesyoubelieve me?" She looked at him sideways. He had a gentle soul. What had made him want to get into such a violent line of work?" Well for one Evangeline was right about the women on our list," Hatch informed the other two once they'd sat down. "None of them are our unsub. She's going--and I can't believe I'm saying this--she's going to get her dream journal to see if she can remember any details from what she's seen so far." He shook his head, not even able to look Rossi in the eye. He knew how ridiculous it sounded." While she's doing that, maybe we can widen our search," JJ suggested. "If we still think we're looking at medical professionals, we could try veterinarians and morticians?" Once in the car, Spencer waited for Evangeline to give instructions on her home. Before pulling out of the parking lot, he turned the heat on low since it was rather chilly. The warm air felt nice on his face and it was very relaxing. "Well, I believe you because I know how it feels to have everyone against you. Growing up, I wasn't always given the warmest welcome, and I wasn't given a fair chance around anyone. I just feel like I need to believe you. I don't know why... but I just do. Don't disappoint me, okay?" He asked with a small little grin on his face before turning his focus back to the road. He did realize how stupid he would look if Evangeline turned out to be a fraud, but Dr. Reid was going out on a limb here. Rossi just sighed to himself and was to the point that no words could fit here. "I think that's a good idea, JJ. Have Garcia run the same credentials through the system with these new occupations." Morgan immediately made the call to his baby girl and told her what to do. "Wherever she is taking the body parts, it has to be secluded, right? I mean dead bodies start to smell, and I imagine it would be even worse when the bodies are cut up and mutilated. Maybe this is a long shot, but if there are any complaints of an awful smell, we could look into it. I doubt it would be easy to cover it up." Brennan mused, unsure if it would help anything but at this point, it was better than just keeping quiet. Evangeline smiled. "I haven't disappointed you yet, have I?" she asked. "I know you're risking your neck here, so thank you. I really do appreciate it." Once they arrived at her house she started to slide out of the car then stopped. "Want to come in?" she offered. Herhousewas...uniquely decorated, to say the least. The rooms were oddly shaped and all the windows were thrown open despite the drizzle. None of the furniture matched and there was no discernible color scheme, apart from "every color." Still it was very clean and quite comfortable. She gestured toward the back of the house, kicking off her shoes before stepping over the wood floors." Myroom'back here," Evangeline informed him, not waiting to see whether he would follow though he was more than welcome to." Good idea," Hatch conceded to Brennan. "Garcia can you also please search for any smell or noise complaints? Any women who recently purchased a large freezer might be a good idea as well." "Of course not. Don't thank me, just make sure we get this case solved." He smiled at her and followed her into the house. Indeed, Spencer followed her into her room, and he was really gawking at the decorations and colors. "Wow... this house is really awesome... I have never seen anything like it... not that it's bad, but it's fascinating and cool. Much better than my apartment." He chuckled to himself and leaned up against the doorway. "So, can we take the journal back to the station? Or at least the pages about this case. I know it's your personal journal but any information that may pertain to this case can be helpful." He told her with a nod, waiting for her answer. His eyes continued to scan the room, and it was obvious she was a very colorful person, and it was nice to be around this kind of woman when he did such a dark job." Okay, Garcia out. I'll work my magic and get back soon." The phone clicked and Garcia was off to work. "Now, do we just wait and see what answers we get? We can't really go out and look because we don't know what to look for... so I guess this is all we can do at this moment. "Let's call it a night," Hatch offered. "We're all tired, and we've been spinning our wheels all day. Now that we've got a little traction, let's get some sleep and get a fresh look tomorrow. Evangeline will have her journal, we'll have a new perspective, I think it's best all around." He pulled out his phone to look through his contacts. "I'll text Reid to let him know." Evangeline smiled when he complimented her home. "Thank you. I try my best not to match the decor," she quipped as she dug through her nightstand drawer. "I just find that the conventional ideas of taste and fashion don't suit me," she admitted, "so I separate myself from them. It's always nice to know your home is unique in the world." Spencer's phone buzzed with a new text." Tell them I have it," she said, grabbing it out of her nightstand and leaning back on the bed, "and we'll be back soon. They need to learn patience." Spencer listened to Evangeline when she spoke. "Well, you do a good job. It really is unique... maybe I should take some of your ideas if you don't mind." He laughed and checked his text when he felt it buzzing in his pocket. "Uh, actually my team leader just texted me. We are calling it a night. If you don't mind, I would like to look at it now. I don't want to rest on this case. I don't want another mutilated body showing up tomorrow." He told her with a smile and looking at her. "So if you don't mind, is there somewhere we can both sit? I want to take notes and spread out my papers, so something like a table?" He asked curiously, tilting his head at her and waiting for an answer. After Hatch said that they were calling it a night, Brennan stood up and packed away his files. "Let's just head over to the hotel and get some sleep." Botcher added and walked outside. Everyone was leaving and Brennan of course stayed behind to help JJ. Once all the files were away, he laced their fingers together and walked outside to the car. Everyone always got a separate room when staying somewhere, except for the married couple of course. It was nice to snuggle and cuddle up under a blanket in the middle of a gruesome investigation, much like this one now really. They wouldn't have to lie alone after a day of seeing nothing but death. They could be together and comfort one another. Furthermore, they were also able to get so well rested after their sleep each night. And now, he held her hand while they drove to the hotel for the night. Evangeline raised her eyebrows a little. "No, Doctor Reid. I don't have a table." Smiling and shaking her head, she leads the way out through the living room and back into the dining room. The room at first seemed partially exposed to the elements, but on second look glass kept the rain and snow from getting in. Instead, the drizzle splatted lazily against it. "One of my favorite rooms," she said with a smile. "I just feel so connected to nature in this part of the house. All that glass is actually two enormous sliding doors, so I can open it up when it's nice out." After directing him to the table, Evangeline moved into the cleanly-kept kitchen, which appeared to be a converted greenhouse. Without asking how long or even whether he was staying she began pulling out vegetables and some stewed tomatoes that appeared to have been home-canned. Looking over at him as she chopped up a pepper, she shook her head and tasked." You need to take a break, Dr. Reid," she advised. "Obsession doesn't do anybody any good. Even if you figured out who she was, you wouldn't be able to find her tonight. Besides, I always feel her presence before she kills...tonight isn't the night." "Wow, this really is an awesome house..." Spencer mused and chuckled to himself. The dining room played tricks with him as he fell under the impression that it was indeed exposed to the elements. Once they reached the table, he spread out his field and folders and started looking again. Of course, he read the files hundreds of times probably, and he had an acetic memory but taking another look would never hurt. When she was speaking about needing to take a break, he took a deep breath. Maybe she was right. Maybe she really could feel the presence, and maybe she wouldn't kill. He would take that chance he supposed. "Alright then... alright. Let's meet up at the station tomorrow morning. I want to get a quick start on this tomorrow. Have your journal and if you think of anything, call me." He told her before handing her his card. After bidding her goodbye, he left the house in his car and was on his way to check in on the hotel. In all honestly, his head was hurting from all this information, and he was just wanting to sleep and rest. It was then Evangeline realize she'd cocked it up. "Well I--" But Spencer didn't seem to realize she'd meant for him to stay. Before she could protest the only thing in her house that remained of Dr. Reid was his card and his energy. With a sigh she shook her head and finished cooking a meal for one. Rube wasn't going to be happy withanythingthat had happened today. In the morning Evangeline was at the station bright and early. She'd taken her bicycle, which remained chained up outside the station as she helped work over the case. Sitting down at the table, she flipped her journal open about three-quarters of the way through the little notebook. Holding the pages down, she slid it across the table for the others to see. JJ leaned over to get a better look and though her writing was a loopy, tidy cursive it was difficult to read from this distance." Here, May fifteenth," Evangeline said, pointing at the date. "This was my first vision about her. Nothing was too clear, I couldn't open my eyes all the way...but she was upset. Veryupset. Lonely, hurt, angry...empty. Whatever it was that triggered her break, I would think this was it." "So upset, lonely, hurt, angry. Empty. Maybe it was a death of someone close to her. Those emotions all point to it. Maybe a love interest or a close sibling? I could see that. Maybe if she was young when it happened, it could be a parent. She would feel lonely because the people who raise her wouldn't be there anymore. Can you tell us how old she seemed and can you tell us the next vision and flip to it?" Spencer asked quietly while jotting down a few notes. Just as yesterday, he was the only team member that seemed to care what she had to say. Morgan would tease him about it later if this case ended up going well. If someone died because they were busy talking with a medium on a wild goose chase. The writing on her journal wasn't readable to him though it must be to her, somehow. After saying this, the rest of the team were thinking trying to give her more of a shot. Brennan was beside JJ as usual and this had him scratching his head. There was no connection between the victims still nor was there any certain pattern or schedule the woman was staying with for her killing. It seemed random, but it wasn't because she was trying to build the perfect protector. No way that could be random so they just had to hope they got something from her visions and dreams. Evangeline shook her head. "I don't know how old she is. I just know she's an adult female, probably early-to-mid forties based on the people I see around her at that birthday party with the creepy clown. Looked like maybe the 70s or early 80s." It hadn't escaped her notice that nobody else was talking to her, but she didn't particularly care. One of them was and that was what was important. "I think it was a close friend or sibling," she put in as she flipped through the pages of her journal, "but that's my own speculation. The Universe hasn't deemed it appropriate to tell me yet who she lost. Only when." It took a moment, but she found the next entry." Here. I think this was her second victim, chronologically, but it was the first I saw. This was back in June." Evangeline pointed to a page. "Here. She had seen him earlier with his grandson. The older black man, I don't know his name. He was a war vet, a father...she saw him as protective and caring. She thought about maybe just ripping out his heart, but for whatever reason she doesn't feel she can Frankenstein it up here. She needs a whole torso with a true heart." She looked up at Spencer meaningfully. "She took his leg for stability and strength." The team listened to Evangeline talk and nodded along. "So that means the woman would be a young child then like we expected. I really feel like this would be a sibling. Perhaps an older brother, it makes sense. Who always protects the little girl? The older brother... it wouldn't be that much of an age gap, I don't think. Maybe if she was young enough to have clowns, he was early teen years, maybe not that. We could search for murders that were brutal in the 70s and 80s that involved a young male that had a younger sister. That might be too much to ask though and not specific enough, but I think we are getting closer now. Let's keep looking, what's your next vision?" Spencer asked, waiting for her to continue. Morgan and Rossi still had looks of disbelief in their face. They really didn't believe this at all. They were looking at a dream journal. A dream journal... wow, this would definitely hold up in court...regardless, it was kind of getting them somewhere they supposed. She hadn't done anything to give them a reason to doubt her yet so they really couldn't complain. Evangeline shook her head. "No, whoever she lost it was recent. It's what triggered this madness...she lost her protector so she's building a new one. You'd have to look earlier, I'd start with the beginning of the year." Still, she was glad at leastsomeonebelieved her. It was clear that the rest of the team was still skeptical, and Morgan and Rossi would likely refuse to believe anything she said, ever. Until this killer was caught she knew they wouldn't open their minds enough to believe. Ignoring their incredulous looks, she turned to the next entry. "This man, her fourth...he was strong, domineering. She...she saw him at the gym." Evangeline frowned at the page, trying to remember what the gym had looked like. "I can't remember...all I'm seeing is purple. I can't remember anything else about him." She looked up at him, wishing she could help more. She was sure if they could pinpoint her gym where she'd seen her fourth victim they'd be able to find this unsub. Spencer made a mental note about Evangeline saying that the death was recent. The team was very skeptical, obviously. "So we know she will be athletic and strong most likely. Maybe she could even work there or instruct part-time? I think that she could do that along with her job as some medical worker. I'm not sure though. How does purple correlate with anything? Maybe the gym was purple?" Spencer murmured to himself, stroking his hair slowly as he was thinking. "Okay, what about this latest victim? I think that's the most important victim at the moment. And do you have any visions about possible future victims? Or anything about the unsub in specific?" It was clear that the only man to ask questions was Spencer because he was the only one that seemed to even believe her but if it helped them find out anything, then he'd press for it. Now, waiting on the answer, he started to jot some notes down, trying to figure out what connections could be made. Rossi and Morgan were easily the least working team members at the moment, all unable to believe this was doing good. Evangeline shrugged. "Or maybe she's trying to get healthier? I don't know. I don't know what the purple is, but that's all I Saw. It's possible it was purple." She shook her head as he asked more questions. "I'm sorry, I haven't Seen anything else about future victims." That was a lie...but how was Evangeline supposed to tell him he was going to die? "The last victim though...she took her head. I don't know what made her think that woman was particularly smart or clever, but that's why she wanted it. I'm afraid that's all I know about her and her past right now." She wanted to help more, to be able to tell them with no question who this unsub was and where she was...but the Universe didn't work like that. It generally only gave her enough to get a vague idea of what was going on. She'd been clearing her mind more often the past few days, trying to See more into this person, but she was coming up empty. Rube had been drawn to her when he'd gotten his last name, but it really wasn't much to go on. "Well, thanks for your help but if that's all your dream journal has now, then let Dr. Reid take you home. We have some work to do here, and maybe you would work better at your house with any other information you have." Rossi felt so dumb for doing this, but he couldn't be around her for that much longer, listening to her ramble on about dream journals and seeing into the future and seeing into the past. He had enough of it but for some reason, their boy genius was taking a like to her and seemed to believe her. Honestly, he just wanted to get her out of there. Reid had his phone if they needed him, and he could bring his laptop to do research. So after Rossi said this, Spencer sighed and looked to Evangeline. "Let's go. You can put your bicycle in the back of my car." Spencer offered with a shy smile. He was looking forward to visiting her house again honestly. It was hard to think straight when all of his colleagues were being stubborn and skeptical. Plus, it was a nice house, she was a nice girl, and he was happy to be around her. He gathered his files and waited by the door of the conference room, waiting for her to get ready and leave with him to see what else they can put together while the rest of the team did their work. Evangeline sighed. "Think I'm a fraud all you want, Agent Rossi, but please don't speak to me like I'm an exceedingly slow child. Different strokes and all that." In a dignified manner she gathered her things, including her dream journal, and tucked them into her bag before following Spencer outside. As she lifted her bike into the back of the SUV, she smiled ruefully at him. After all, she hadn'tmeant earn him the ire of his team, and really it was unfair of them to ostracize him like that. Even if he didn't believe her, he was respecting her beliefs and at least giving her a chance." Sorry you got stuck babysitting the crazy lady," she said once they were in the car. "You seem like a pretty logical, rational guy, very Spock, so I know you probably don't believe me. But I appreciate that you're treating me like an adult human being with brains in my head. Means a lot in such a hostile environment." Evangeline smiled again, genuinely this time. She was pleasant and a little chatty on the way home, but let Spencer in just as she had the day before. "You ran off yesterday before I could invite you to stay for dinner," she mentioned. "Maybe I could convince you to stay for lunch instead?" "I would love to stay for lunch... in fact, I'd love to stay as long as you will allow me. You're right that I am logical. I rely on science and hard evidence for all my answers. I always have. But I'm not ignorant to the fact that this is a worldwide phenomenon. People from everywhere make your kind of claims. Actually, I do believe you. I will be honest. I don't know why I believe you, but I do, and I want to make up for what my team has done to you. Plus, I always like being able to make a friend. I don't get invited to stay for lunch a lot. And I'm sorry I ran off last night, it was just a lot to process with this case. I thought I was onto something, but the lead went to nowhere." He admitted with a small smile. Once they walked inside, he set his bags down right where he did the night before and took out his files again." So..." Spencer began. "Is there any other information you may have about this case? Maybe not in dreams but visions or any kind of communication?" he asked, keeping his tone genuine as he truly believed in her. Evangeline returned his small smile. It was surprising that he believed her, but nice at the same time. Not many people like him did. "Making friends is always nice," she admitted. "Oh and I hope you don't mind, but I've got a reading in about half an hour. We'll be in the other room, though, so I don't imagine we'll bother you. I've had to shift around my readings to fit around this case, but I feel that it's important enough, you know?" She set to shuffling about the kitchen, making a chickpea salad for lunch. "I..." She didn't know whether to tell him when he asked about any information she might have. "Ru--er, Gideon is just concerned, that's all. Worried. So, you know...yeah." That was all she could say. How do you tell someone they're going to die? After lunch Evangeline's scheduled reading arrived on time. It took about an hour before she showed the person out and appeared in the kitchen again. Glancing at the clock, she shrugged and pulled out a bottle of wine." Five o'clock somewhere, right?" she joked lightly, pouring a small glass. "It's two hours til on a Friday, I don't think that's a problem. So...maybe you could stay for dinner as well?" Evangeline slid into the chair next to Spencer's, looking over his work. "And drinks?" There was a light flush to her cheeks, but she hadn't yet even sipped her wine. "Oh, it's your home, and you won't be a bother to me at all, don't worry." Spencer told her with a little smile. Raising his brow, he could tell she was hiding something. He was a profiler for a living. He studied human behavior for over eight years now professionally and even more in college. A few things were strange, especially when she sounded like speaking of Gideon's name... wasn't Gideon's name. Ru? Ruben? Rudy? He didn't know how that was mixed up with Gideon, but what did he know? He ate lunch with her and kept the small chat going. It was a really nice day to be honest. Being around this blonde girl was so comforting, a feeling he hadn't had since the incident with Maeve. When her appointment arrived, he stayed in the room to review case files, do research, and make calls. He made no progress at all and meanwhile at the station, the team started to gain more information about the unsub, and it started to look more and more like Evangeline. She was the only person that they had in mind. They weren't buying the medium stunt so either she read this before or she committed the crimes, but they didn't move yet." Yeah, I don't think it's a problem at all, and I would love to stay." He grinned, taking one of the glasses and sipping on it. Her cheeks looked so adorable when they blushed and after sudden rush of courage, he started to speak. "How is a beautiful woman like yourself all alone out here?" He finally asked with a smile. The case was giving him a headache... it wouldn't hurt to take a little break... Evangeline turned an even brighter shade of pink and grinned into her glass. She wasn't used to men talking to her like that. And if she were honest with herself, Spencer was just outright adorable. She liked him, she admitted; he was cute, smart, and he believed her. Or at least believed that she believed it. Sliding her finger around the rim of her glass, she finally got the courage to look back up at him." Well, youmayfind this hard to believe, but a lot of people think I'm crazy." She had a good-natured smile. She knew it wasn't difficult to believe, which was why she cherished the people in her life who didn't think she was. "Oh, or a liar. Or both; both is a common one too. It's been a while since I've let it bother me, though. So ah...what about you?" Evangeline reached forward and pushed his bangs out of his eyes. "How does a cute genius like you wind up in the FBI?" As she let her hand fall from his face she let it rest gently over his hand. If he moved it she wouldn't stop him...but she sincerely hoped he didn't. Shaking his head, Spencer let a small laugh pass his lips. Her hand felt so nice on his head and his hand. Instead of moving his hand away form her, he flipped his hand-over to take hers in his and lace their fingers together. "C-cute?" He murmured and laughed nervously, blushing just like her. "Well, I just really want to help people. There's not much else I can do with my genius that would help people more than being with the FBI. Whenever some family is reunited, that is what makes me smile and what makes things worth it." After taking a deep, quick breath, he didn't realize how ironic his next statements would be. "And so many people tell me how dangerous it is and how being a teacher or something would be easier, but... I always say that if I die on this job, it's going to be doing something helpful. I just hope that if it ever comes to that, that someone will be saved in the process. It scares me each time we go onto the field, but I trust that this is the best work I can do, helping people and saving lives because we don't have enough kind people in the world, willing to give an ultimate sacrifice to help a stranger. I want to be one of those people who freely protect with everything I have. Evangeline smiled at Spencer's reasons for joining the FBI. It was admirable: when he could have done so much with his genius, he decided to help people the best way he knew how. He started talking about dying on the job, though, and her smile slowly faded. She wondered whether he'd think the same way once he was actually dead. She didn'tanthem to die now. Well, she didn't wantanyoneto die of course, but especially not him. Not now. And certainly not the way he was likely to, as more and more she feared the Universe had brought him to her because the unsub was going to make him her next victim." Spencer..." Before she could think about it, before she could stop herself, Evangeline leaned in and kissed the boy genius. His lips were soft and gentle. This was...nice. It had been a while since she'd dated and kissing someone again was very nice. There were no fireworks, of course, but affection and understanding. "Yes? What am i-- mmm...." He murmured against her lips while freely kissing her back. It did feel nice for the boy genius as well. It had been a long time since he shared a kiss with a woman. He felt so at peace, so nice and relaxed. He missed that feeling and even though this kiss was unexpected, he made sure to savor every second of it. After they pulled back, he licked his lips slowly while smiling at her. "That was... nice..." He spoke softly, blushing slightly as he tried to regather himself. Now, he couldn't take his eyes off her for a second. With a gentle little sigh and a shiver running up his spine again, he wondered where this could lead. Something about this woman made him so attracted to her from the beginning, plus, that kiss sent him over the edge. It was getting later on in the day now, and he finally took a bite into his sandwich. As they moved on and tried talking about other things, he couldn't stop thinking about the kiss and suddenly, in the middle of a conversation, he leaned over to kiss her again. He needed that feeling again, it sparked something within him, and he needed to feel those lips at least one more time. Evangeline smiled, rubbing her lips together. They tingled from the kiss. The smile turned into a grin, and she nodded in agreement. Ithadbeen nice. But then he bit into his sandwich, and they had to make the effort of acting normal again. Like it had never happened. She sighed a little, chewing a spoonful of chickpeas as they talked about other things: the case, their lives, their jobs. Normal things. But they both knew they weren't normal people. Evangeline was contemplating kissing Spencer again when he leaned in and kissed her mid-sentence. There was no warning, but she didn't mind. The surprise was nice. She scooted closer to him and tangled her fingers in his hair, groaning gently against his lips. Slowly she backed away, leaning her forehead gently against his." Maybe this is moving a little fast," she murmured, looking into his eyes, "but would you like to take this...elsewhere?" When Evangeline asked if he would like to take this elsewhere, Spencer nodded. Even though he didn't show it too much, he was nervous and terrified. Actually, it did show but not as much emotion as he really felt was seen. What if he did something wrong? What if she didn't like what he did? It all bothered him but finally, he decided to go in all for it. Wow, this was so unprofessional. When was the Dr. Reid ever like this? Never. Maybe that was the point. It was time to take a chance and live a little bit. What's the worst that could happen? "Maybe it is... but I'm okay with it if you are." He answered, biting his lip before standing and taking her hand in his. He wasn't really such a leading person or someone that took initiative like this, but this situation wasn't normal. He recalled where her bedroom was and once they were inside, he began kissing her again, slipping a hand under her shirt. Evangeline grinned and walked with him to the back of the house where her room was. She groaned gently against his lips and pressed her body against his, encouraging him by sliding his hands further up to rest on her breasts. Evangeline didn't believe in bras. She parted from him briefly to pull off her shirt and toss it to the side before kissing down his neck, unbuttoning his shirt and kissing his chest as she went. His belt was next and once she'd undone his pants she pulled him closer by the hips, walking backwards to lead him toward the bed then pulling him down onto the mattress." I want you, Spencer," she murmured into his ear. Evangeline's skirt was easy to slide off, so she laid beneath him in her panties as she kissed along his shoulders and chest. Was it moving too fast? Absolutely. Did she care? Not at all. He would be gone soon anyway, and Evangeline knew that she would always regret it if she didn't act on her feelings for him now. There was no reason to deny her body what it wanted, and if things had been different she knew it wouldn't be just her body that wanted him. She could see herself with this man...but it was just so complicated. That groan sounded so nice against his lips. He could barely focus now. And his hands did travel further up and to her breasts, His hands gave those glorious breasts a squeeze, and they felt more than perfect in his hands. Her nipples were against his palms and when she was shirtless, he began to kiss her again, trailing lips down to her chest to play with her breasts. Soon enough, he was only clad in his boxers thanks to her undressing of him. In return, he pulled off her skirt while returning kisses on her neck. "I want you too Evangeline." Yes, it was moving too fast, but he didn't care either. These feelings were unspeakable for Spencer and slowly, he pulled down her panties and freed his manhood from his boxers. Leaning to kiss her lips again, he started to grind against her thigh. It had been forever since he did this with a woman, and he hoped he could please her. "Are you ready to make love?" He asked in a sensual tone, kissing under her ear.

Criminal Minds_ Dead Like Them (randomname_Madam Mim)|rating:3.0

The Affairs of Shapeshifters (Angie and Tinkertoy)

Faye sure as hell wasn't ready for this. Her sister had finally encouraged her to use her rather unique talents on the Internet. That particular talent? Shapeshifting. She could twist and mold her body into any shape, and her sister, Dawn, used that talent as her own profession-shapeshifting for cash. Faye had always compared it to prostitution, but she couldn't deny that the idea sounded very sexy to her. So after asking her sister for help (and getting quite a bit of teasing), Faye was ready to go. Soon, there would be an ad popping up on the Chat Now! Site..." Click here to chat with a real live Shape-shifter! No request is too far!" Hopefully, someone would pick up on it...and hopefully not anyone expecting Dawn! "This is stupid", Hope though to herself as her cursor hovered over the Chat Now! Banner, "It's Saturday night, and I am going to pay some freak show to pretend they're a werewolf." Despite the vocalized train of though making its journey from her mouth, the cursor still hovered over the ad. Hope sighed and shook her head as the monitor itself seemed to be mocking her, goading her to at least have a sneaky peek for morbid curiosity's sake. She bit her bottom lip and again, shook her head, "Fuck it. Why the hell not, could be good for shits and giggles." The ad was clicked and whoever was on the other side would be altered that someone was crazy enough to talk to them. The chat box popped up and there was Hope's username, Sparkle puss, taunting her to type a greeting. Sparklepuss: Hey...so...shape-shifter, huh? Faye was surprised-there was an immediate response! She hastily accepted it as her webcam light turned on, showing that she was broadcasting to whoever was on the other side. Her own username, Form_Fatal, also hovered in the châteaux. She was a little nervous about this, but hey, it could be fun... Sparklepuss: So... Shapeshifter, huh? Faye had to control her breathing as she typed her reply. She was handing control over to a stranger...who knows what he or she would do? The name did suggest a female though... Form_Fatal: Yeah...so uh...what do you want me to do? The cam on the other end flashed on and Hope held her breath. She tilted her head and muttered, "Can't see a bloody thing..." Hope sighed and stared at the keyboard, the hesitance of the reply stumping her for a beat or two before she could think of an answer that wasn't doused in sarcasm. Sparklypuss: Uh yeah, hey. Hi. So, I totally can't see anything at all. Faye looked at that new line of text, and was confused. "But I should be-"And then the fucking box popped up. A little box saying "would you like to grant Chat Now! Permission to access your webcam and microphone?" With a scowl, Faye clicked yes and finally, she was transmitting properly. What Hope would see would be a rather petite young lady with white hair, as clean as the driven snow, and beautiful blue eyes, shining like sapphires in the dim reflection of her monitor's light. Her loose shirt still managed to betray that she was at least a B-cup in size, a size that Faye had always found comfortable. She wore a plain green shirt, and practically everything below chest height was impossible to see. Form_Fatal: How's that? We should be transmitting properly now. Hope was stunned. She expected some big, burly dude with excessive body hair and possible a mullet....a mulletanda receding hairline. This was most certainly not, what she was expecting. The girl on the other side of the camera was beautiful. The exotic combination of her sparkling cobalt eyes and hair that was as white as the first snowdrop blossom of a new year. Hope was completely dumbstruck and was now taking back the previous berating she had given herself for choosing to click what she had though was a comedy add. Her fingers hung paralyzed above the keyboard, not quite sure what she should type in the box where there was a flashing cursor that felt like it was winking at her lasciviously. She realized she was staring and not communicating with this beautiful creature who she was paying for time with. Her eyes dipped to the digital clock that was in the bottom right-hand corner of her monitor and was shocked to find she had been gazing at the girl for a full five minutes, without typing a single word. Sparklepuss: ....shit, sorry. Sparklepuss: I totally zoned out there. Sparklepuss: You are SO not what I was expecting. Sparklepuss: I mean, I totally thought you would be some gross hairy dude but... Sparklepuss: ...wow, you are like.... Sparklepuss: Sorry, not meaning to sound like a freak here, just really and I mean REALLY surprised. Sparklepuss: You're beautiful. For the five minutes between when she turned on the camera and a new message appeared, Faye just sorta stared at her monitor. She made little movements, watching herself on the monitor-it was showing her what she was transmitting, and it was kinda cool to watch herself about a half second in the past. When Sparkle puss's next lines appeared on-screen, Faye couldn't help but giggle a bit. Form_Fatal: I'll take all that as one big compliment. With a smile, she leaned back in her chair, waiting for a bit...then realised that the other person being so shocked to see her normal form would likely have forgotten the whole "shape-shifter" thing.FF: Well, aren't you going to ask me something?FF: I mean, shape-shifter.FF: Aren't you going to ask me to prove it?FF: So come on. Tell me to do something. Hope couldn't help but stare at Faye, as the minutes ticked by, she realized that she was paying a premium for each one of those ticking minutes. She chuckled and shook her head, thinking it was worth the cash, what else was she going to spend it on anyway? Faye's messages teased her back to the dialog, and it jarred her into remembering the entire point of this little jaunt into the unusual. Sparklepuss: Oh yeah! Right, sorry...just, you're so damned pretty. I'm kinda staring and enjoying the view over here. Sparklepuss: But yeah, the whole....shape-shifter thing. Sparklepuss: How's that work then? Sparklepuss: Don't you, like, need it to be the full moon or something? Full moon? That was an odd question. Faye thought about it...and then realised what she was talking about. Werewolves, right? Faye chuckled a little.FF: Nah, I'm not a Werewolf, I'm a Shape-shifter. Here, let me show you something. With that, Faye sat up straight, with her eyes wide open, and mentally prepared herself. She could shift with a thought, just by focusing on what she wanted to be, although her control wasn't perfect. Still, Sparkle puss would be able to see Faye's hair grow about three inches in length and her eyes change color to amber!FF: So what do you think? Impressive, eh? She sat back with a smile, starting to get into this whole 'shapeshifting on camera' business. With Faye's prompting, Hope leaned in closer to the monitor and kept her eyes on her. The sudden growth of her hair and the startling change in her eyes teased an audible gasp from her chest,"Holy shit....." She blinked several times, hardly believing what she saw on her monitor. The doubt niggled at the edges of her wonder; she was more than aware that there was a whole gamut of programs that could apply varying levels of CGI to a live broadcasting webcam...but, if that were the case, Faye had an incredibly impressive set up. Sparklepuss: Whoa.....was that for real? Sparklepuss: That was....it was... Sparklepuss: What software are you using? That was incredibly realistic. Sparklepuss: I'm impressed. Faye suddenly frowned at the next few lines of text. She wasn't using any software, but convincing the person on the other end of the line would be difficult...but then again, she also knew how CGI worked and could probably convince her...FF: Well, notice how the light is still reflecting off my hair and my new eyes? CGI doesn't do that. And it was true-CGI didn't work with real lighting. You would have to animate your own shadows, and even when you did, it still looked incredibly fake. Faye's hair didn't. It looked natural.FF: It's probably going to be hard to convince you otherwise but...can you maybe think of something impossible to do with CGI? I mean, what I just did can be done with extensions and contacts. She wanted, no, needed a challenge. After all, Sparkle puss was paying... Hope was thinking there was no way what Faye was saying could possibly be true. It simplyhadto be some sort of high end CGI program that she was running in the background. The one thing that was nagging that logic was exactly what Faye had explained: she was absolutely spot on, every other instant CG enhancing program she had ever seen on live messengers seemed to give the effects a more "cartoon-y" appearance....and Faye looked far from cartoonish. The girl in front of her, now with amber eyes and longer, virgin snow hair was most definitely flesh and blood, a living thing with no amount of computer generated enhancement. Sparklepuss: Well, okay, sure. I'll play. Sparklepuss: I'm not real sure how the whole....shapeshifting thing works. Sparklepuss: Can you like... I don't know, make your skin look like its made of metal? Sparklepuss: Say like...chrome? This would be a definitive test, if she could pull this off, there was no way that a CGI program, no matter how advanced could ever replicate the complex light, shadows and reflection from such a small light source. Faye smiled. Chrome, eh? She was a fan of it. Different skin types were a big favorite of hers. Usually she just threw a little color in there and called it good. Chrome was a little different. And in fact, making her skin into chrome would be a little difficult. But, she was willing to give it a try.FF: Alright, this might take a bit. With that, she began. She watched the computer screen that showed how she looked to Sparkle puss on the other end, and mentally focused on making that body metallic and shiny. And so it began, starting with her face and her hair, the shiny, silvery metal spreading like a liquid over Faye's body. It traveled down her arms, and to all the other parts that weren't shown by the camera, the metal covering all of her. The only part that still looked organic was Faye's eyes-she didn't like changing them beyond color variation. Headaches would happen.FF: Eh...taxa? Hope's hands flew to cover her mouth as the first shimmer of chrome glittered on Faye's skin, "Holy shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit...." It felt as if her eyes were going to erupt from her skull, the more she watched, the more the liquid silver engulfed the girl's skin until she was entirely covered in the reflective surface. Hope leaned forward, her face so close to the monitor, she left nose prints on the screen. There was no way that CGI had generated an effect that flawless, that it could continue to maintain the illusion of this beautiful girl covered in a mirror-like skin. She was real...her claim, was real and Hope was now gaping like a goldfish that was pawed out of the bowl by the family house cat. With trembling hands she tried to type. Sparklepuss: WOW GHATS AMSGFINGSpaklepuss: ....crap.sorry...caps and spelling, I mean. Sparklepuss: That is amazing...you...you weren't bullshiting were you? Sparklepuss: I mean, you lookincredibleSparklepuss: Shit...typos, sorry.kind....mind blow...ACK!!! Sparklepuss: Mind blown. Faye couldn't help but giggle a bit. Having now proven her power to the girl on the other side of the monitor, she watched with glee as the châteaux was flooded with typos and caps lock. She accepted it now, and that made the whole thing just a tiny bit sweeter.FF: Totally forgiven.FF: I mean, how many people can say they've met a real live shape-shifter? Faye mentally added "everyone my sister has met" to that last question, but didn't type it.FF: So...are you going to ask me around a bit more?FF: Maybe even order me around some?FF: I mean...you've got someone who can be anyone...why not play? Hope found herself nodding and vocalizing little sounds of agreement to everything that Faye had typed, her pale eyes locked firmly on the glossy girl on the webcam. It took her several minutes to realise that Faye couldn't hear her much less, see her, and she suddenly felt several shades of ridiculous. Her hands rushed the keyboard and a tangled jumble of letters an number filled her entry line. "Ah, cheese, come on Hope!" She stabbed at the backspace button until it was clear of her overexcited gibberish. "Okay, hands, pay attention and stop making me look like a complete span." Sparklepuss: I can't think of a single person that can make that claim. Sparklepuss: So *grins* not only are you beautiful and have an incredible ability...you like to be TOLD what to do too? Hope felt the sweet spring of desire begin to ache between her thighs. She let out a shuddering exhale and nodded, "Much...much better. Now, just keep it together, Hope, play it a little more smooth." "Sparkle puss is typing" flashed in the châteaux before swiftly disappearing. Faye stifled a giggle-the girl on the other end was likely going nuts with this completely new world suddenly open before her. Her chromed hands put a lot of pressure on her own keyboard, so she cheated and retracted the metal from her hands before typing her replies.FF: Well, sorta.FF: I mean, you are paying for this. Only right you get to control me a little. She smiled into the camera, and gave a wink, as if she knew what was happening on the other side.FF: Plus, I've always had a bit of a submissive streak.FF: I'm a bit of an awkward nerd underneath all this crazy shapeshifting stuff, but... I mean, this feels...different.FF: Like I can be me, you know? Hope chuckled softly and felt the merest kiss of a blush on her cheeks as Faye winked, "Damn it, she is so fucking cumulate." She chuckled softly at the line confessing to being an awkward nerd, feeling a strong sense of shared identity with the sweet creature that was now a beck and call. Sparklepuss: I'm a big awkward nerd too *chuckles* Hello...paying money to see sexy things on the internet. Sparklepuss: I'd really like to see you, just being you, so you can drop the chrome thing if it's uncomfy or anything. Sparklepuss: Okay, so I will totally try to do the whole big, tough Dome thing with you...but don't hate me if I can't pull it off, Kay? Sparklepuss: Now...show me your boobs. Faye shook her head at the idea of dropping the chrome.FF: When I shift, it all feels natural to me.FF: Which is also how I can randomly shift when I get emotional. With another chuckle, she saw Sparkle puss apologizing for not being as much a DOM as Faye might like-considering it was her first time doing this stuff, she didn't really know what kind of DOM she wanted...FF: Well, I guess I should drop it so you can see my natural boobs... With that, she returned her skin to normal and took off her loose shirt, then her bra, casually tossing them aside, now sitting before the camera with nothing to conceal her melons.FF: What do you think, Mistress? "Yessssssss...." Hope hissed as her hands rubbed together, and she gazed on at Faye's breasts. Her modest breasts were perfect to tear drops and her little rosebud nipples teased a girlish titter from Hope's lips. Sparklepuss: Absolutely gorgeous. Sparklepuss: You have the prettiest nipplesSparklepuss: Now make them bigger, I want to see them to swell all the way up to a DDSparklepuss: And do it NOW, pet. Faye giggled a bit.FF: Yes, Mistress! She quickly typed her response as her breasts began to grow. It wasn't like being inflated with air, it was actual flesh that was piling up on her chest as she made those jugs bigger. The growth was slow, just so Faye could tease her 'Mistress' with the growth.FF: So what do you think?FF: Myself, I kinda like 'em too. Hope heard the low moan slipping past her lips and barely registered that the erotic sound was coming from her own vocal cords. She bit her bottom lip as she watched Faye's beautiful, little breasts slowly and teasingly swell from modest handfuls to abundant downy pillows. The damp heat between her thighs made her squirm slightly, and she watched as Faye jiggled with every slight movement. Sparklepuss: Perfect...absolutely perfect. Sparklepuss: I wish there was some way I could share with you the effect you're causing over here. Sparklepuss: You are such a good girl, Pet. But I want more, I want to see you sculpt yourself into my fantasy. Spaklepuss: Now stand up, let me see your ass then fill it out until it is full and round...right now. Faye giggled a little, sending her newly enhanced breasts into a much bigger bounce. Wanting to be able to continue to communicate with her "Mistress" while she stood up, she turned on a voice recognition program that would hopefully work properly.FF: I just turned on voice commands, so if something weird happens in the châteaux, not my vault.FF: Gas! It's already ducking up! While slightly annoyed, Faye still stood as her Mistress commanded, and turned around so that her ass faced the camera, letting it slowly expand into being a nice, full and firm butt.FF: Gee, now I'm starting to look like a slut...FF: Oh, it picks THAT up perfectly! "Uuuuunnnnfff...." Hope bit her bottom lip as Faye's rear grew into a plump and juicy rump, she barely even registered the typos that the voice recognition software had thrown up. She marveled at the control Faye had over her body, she would even go so far as to admit that she envied Faye's unique ability. Sparklepuss: No Pet, you do not "look like a slut"Sparkle puss: Never let me hear you say that again, understand? Sparklepuss: You look like voluptuous Goddess, like a pin up made flesh. Sparklepuss: Now, show me your pussy. I want to see you naked before I decide your next change. Faye herself was really enjoying herself, a warmth spreading through her as Sparkle puss's words appeared on scream. Exploring her talents had never felt quite like this. She blushed a little at her command to never call herself a slut again, but out of embarrassment or from being 'defended', she couldn't tell. She didn't really want to show off her pussy, but...it was a command...and Sparkle puss was being so nice and loving...without a word, she unbuttoned her shorts and pulled them down along with her panties, then bent over her chair and showed off the combination of ample rump and slight wetness that was sure to drive her Mistress wild! "Jeeeeeeeeeesusssssss." Hope felt the smolder of her arousal spark into a consuming fire. She licked her lips as she leaned in closer to her monitor and squirmed slightly with the sensation of her liquid desire being confined in her cotton panties. Sparklepuss: PerfectSparklepuss: Absolute perfect, Pet. Sparklepuss: You are being such a good, little kitten. Sparklepuss: Now show me that you are my perfect, little kitten. Grow a tail. A little kitty tail, eh? That wouldn't be too hard, and she would even have perfect control over it! Faye giggled a bit as she focused on the new change, a little nub of flesh growing at the base of her spine before extending (and also getting covered in fur as it went) into a foot and a half long cat tail. To show off a little bit, Faye waved her new tail in front of the camera before using it to type!FF: Meow!FF: Should I get some cat ears too?FF: Oh by the way, there is a limit on my power-I still have to appear vaguely humanoid. So I can't turn into an actual cat. But this is easy. Hope's eyes grew to saucer like proportions as the naughty, little wave of Faye's new tail relayed on her monitor." And I have now entered the realm of every Manga obsessive's ultimate wet dream...." She chuckled, but her arousal could not be denied, Faye's transformative abilities were unlocking an entire world of possibilities and Hope's mind and knocking on the doors of her deepest fantasies. Sparklepuss: I don't want you to be anything but humanoid, Pet. Sparklepuss: Do you want to be my sexy, little neko? Sparklepuss: Do you want to be my little kitten that licks cream from my fingers and gets belly rubs for being a good girl? Sparklepuss: Grow the ears. Oh, yes, yes yes, a thousand times yes, Faye found herself mentally saying. Thank god computers couldn't detect thought-yet. She had a side view camera that was also hooked up to Chat Now!, so she found herself switching to that monitor, so her Mistress could get a better look at her shifting body.FF: Do you mind the side view? I think it'll help you see better. With that, she turned to the camera and closed her eyes as her ears shrank into her head before reappearing as fuzzy cat ears on the top of her head. The fur on both her new ears and her tail was as white as her hair.FF: So does this make me the Goddess of Cats? "Fuck yeah, it does...." Hope muttered as she watched Faye morph unto living hentai. She felt the heat in her panties intensify, she wanted this girl. This odd, beautiful girl that was charging her to take commands to drastically alter her body. A wickedness fluttered in Hope's mind, and she wondered how far Faye would let her go. Sparklepuss: No Pet, you are no Goddess of Cats, you are a very naughty, little kitten. Sparklepuss: MY very naughty, little kitten. Sparklepuss: I want to take this further, Pet. Sparklepuss: I want to take this somewhere that you might not be ready for. Sparklepuss: Are you my good and obedient Pet that will do anything I demand? Faye blushed a little at Sparkle puss's words, wondering what the lady might have in store for her...of course, if Faye didn't agree to what she said, she could always kill the chat without worry. But seeing as how she was already out of her comfort zone...why not go farther?FF: Well I'm kinda already in a place I'm not ready for.FF: This is my first time doing this.FF: But... I guess as long as it doesn't involve any kind of...bodily fluid...FF: And it all stays in this room...FF: Anything goes? "Is there no end to this chick's adorableness.... Christ, look at her blush, could shebang cuter?" Hope stared at the monitor, relishing the blush that now rode high on Faye's cheeks and began to wonder if her next suggestion really was a great idea. Sheknewif Faye would agree to it, never mind pull it off, it could be the single most erotic moment of her life...but this was all down to the beautiful stranger with the exotic ability. Sparklepuss: It might involve body fluid, in fact, I hope it will at some point. Sparklepuss: But not quite yet. Sparklepuss: I'm just curious how eager you are to please me, Pet. Sparklepuss: If you are serious about wanting me to be your Mistress, even just for these few moments that I am watching you, then you will do as I say, no questions. Hope grinned to herself and waited to watch Faye's reaction as she made her sweat about what her next request would be. FF: Well I mean, I mean, like, pee, and...gross stuff.FF: Cum is fine, I mean, that's coming, I bet. Faye was a little scared of what was coming next, what was this woman wanting her to do? Masturbate? Well, what else could she do? She could say no.or yes...say yes and step into a new world of erotic adventures... Faye couldn't deny herself. This was the sexiest thing she had ever done. She wasn't stopping now.FF: I accept. Whatever you desire, Mistress. She swallowed. Now all there was to do was wait for her Mistress to tell her the new command. Hope allowed Faye to sweat a little longer, she loved the way her pretty face sat when she was obviously nervous for whatever the next request could be. It was excruciating to be patient and allow the build up to grow, but she knew if she just let Faye dwell on it a little longer, it would have the desired impact she so desperately wanted. Sparklepuss: I can't think of anything less sexy than human waste, Pet. Do not worry about that. Hope left Faye to dangle a little more, tease the big request a little longer until she could see Faye physically fidget with a growing nervousness. Then Hope decided she really couldn't scrounge that kind of patience up for herself, she had to know...she had to see. Sparklepuss: My sweet pet, grow a cock for me. Sparklepuss: Circumcised and pretty. Sparklepuss: And do it now. Faye's face froze-if it wasn't for the rise and fall of her chest, Sparkle puss would be right to think that the video had frozen. A cock? What? She wanted to ask questions but...she also didn't want to lose this person...she struggled with the idea. She wasn't asking her to become a male, she was asking for just the cock. So, Fulani in that case. A kink for Faye herself, but not one she ever considered shifting into...indeed, she wanted a FTA to fuck her! Then again...being that for a while would be...interesting. With a calming breath, she leaned back, letting the side view camera pick it up. The cock would grow out of her clit...probably act like her clit too, just with the ability to shoot cum...what did cum taste like? Well, it was white, so, cake frosting maybe? Faye knew how ridiculous that idea sounded, but what the hell, roll with it. Her clit grew out to be about six inches in length and a half inch in width, shaped perfectly, and circumcised as per Sparkle puss's request.FF: Uh...did I do good? Hope gawked with a pure disbelief as she watched the perfect phallus slowly rise and gain shape from between Faye's downy lips. She felt a tremble race through her body and the gusset of her panties was now beyond drenched. The pink of her tongue moistened her lips and she was shocked to hear the ragged pattern of her own breathing, she had never been this aroused in the entirety of her life and she decided at that precise moment that she wanted Faye. She didn't want her to do a single other cam show for another person... Hope wanted it all for her own greedy desires. Sparklepuss: It's a good start, Pet. Sparklepuss: But I believe you can do better than that. Sparklepuss: Can't you? Faye didn't answer for a while, because there was something happening. After growing the cock, she suddenly couldn't think of any other desire but to grab and stroke this new phallus until it shot all over the keyboard. With a force of willpower, she managed to type.FF: I...it's hard to think straight... Her eyes slowly turned pink, signifying arousal, and without her knowledge.FF: I just want to stroke this thing...shove it in something... I...FF: I need you to order me around, or I'm going to give in. Sparkle puss: Don't you dare even THINK about touching it, Pet. Sparklepuss: That cock is for me, not you. Sparklepuss: Put your hands where I can see them, you touch it once without me giving you the permission, I disconnect and we're done, do you understand? Hope couldn't believe that her fingers were typing these wicked and dominant demands, but there they were, clear as day, on the monitor for herandFaye to read. She swallowed and sat shaking with her fingers poised to set out her next demand, "Do it Hope, c'mon...just....do it." Sparklepuss: Bigger, I want to see a giant monster cock peeking up from that pussy. Sparklepuss: And I can't have you cum for me if you don't have any balls, now can I, Pet? Faye put her hands on the keyboard, right for the camera to see it. Come on Faye, hold it, hold it... She said to herself.FF: Yes Mistress. I won't touch it. A giant cock? It was hard to deal with just this size. And balls too? Oh, as if it couldn't get worse. Her hormones were already running wild and unconstrained...but she loved how hot she was at the same time. Leaning back, she decided to just let her cock grow as much as it could. It doubled, then quadrupled in size, becoming two feet in length and two inches wide!FF: Mistress...bigger?FF: I...don't think I'm at my limits yet. Sparkle puss: Of COURSE bigger, Pet. She was obeying. Not a single complaint or even an ounce of defiance, this Goddess simply did exactly as Hope told her and Hope was now practically vibrating with the spectacle of this monstrous penis ascending from the body of this nymphet of a girl, "Jesus fucking Christ, this is incredible...." Sparklepuss: But It's still is not big enough. Sparklepuss: I want to see that big, glistening head pushing its way between those incredible breasts. Sparklepuss: Don't keep me waiting, Pet. FF: You have no idea how incredibly hot this is to me.FF: I'm typing just so I keep my hands busy, and I don't wrap my hands around this amazing dick... Faye typed as she made her cock grow more, eventually making the growing, throbbing phallus reach her breasts before sinking in between the enlarged pillows of soft, heavenly flesh. "Fuck...it feels so good..." She said to herself-only for it to show up in chat.FF: Fuck it feels so good She closed her eyes and grabbed the edges of her desk as her cock kept growing, the massive member suddenly peaking its head out from between her tits. "FUCK!" She screamed out.FF: Shit, the voice recognition is still on, isn't it?!FF: Well...guess I can't hide much from Mistress, eh? Hope issued a low groan as she felt her body tighten in anticipation. Witnessing Faye's ability manifest a huge, pulsing cock that was now protruding from between her heaving breasts had coaxed a near orgasmic sensation." C'mon Hope, keep it together...it's going to get so much hotter still." Sparklepuss: Hang in there, Pet. I want you to suffer a little more. Sparklepuss: Make you desperate, make you beg. Sparklepuss: Does it feel good having a huge cock? Sparklepuss: Does if you feel good having it tightly trapped between your massive breasts? Sparklepuss: Now...SLOWLY and I mean SLOWLY, Pet, slide your tail into your pussy. Faye didn't want to suffer anymore. She wanted to do a lot of things instead. She wanted to wrap her lips around the head of her cock as she stroked it with both hands and fuck herself with her tail. Furthermore, she would have said she wanted to be a slut, but then Mistress would hear... With all the willpower she could sum up, her tail reached around her body and slowly began to insert into her pussy. "AHH!" She screamed out, her cock throbbing and pulsing. Not wanting to type it out, she would instead rely on her microphone to chat with Sparkle puss. "I...it...something wants to come out of my cock!" She shouted at the screen, causing it to appear in the chatroom. "Mistress, what do I do?" She said, the merest hint of panic on her face. Hope could feel the thundering of her breath and the hammering of her heartbeat take leap into what felt like double time. Faye's reaction to her demands was beyond her wildest expectations, but she knew she had to give the poor girl a little relief. It took the utmost concentration to keep her hand from randomly mashing the keyboard in her excitement. Spaklepuss: Alright, Pet, you have been such a good girl and that cock DOES look delicious, doesn't it? Sparklepuss: Since you have been so obedient, I will ALLOW you to take it into your mouth and suck it until you cum. Spaklepuss: Now get to it. Faye was on her own cock in an instant, wrapping her lips around that nice, thick glans and sucking with all her might. She didn't care how she looked to Mistress-in fact, she hoped she looked dirty as hell. It didn't take long for her cock to pulse even harder than before and drive her to orgasm. She moaned around her own cock as she came, swallowing down huge mouthfuls of that sugary sweet cum. Good thing I made it taste like this... She thought. But she wasn't perfect-plenty of her gigantic load was dripping out of her mouth and drizzling all over her chest, covering her tits in this strange new fluid.FF: Fuck...this feels so good...thank you for letting me cum, Mistress... Hope slammed back in her chair and let out a long exhale. For the first time in her life she craved a cigarette, the explosive finale of Faye's transformations was beyond the craziest fantasies she had dared to dream of. The cute way Faye continued to thank her was enough to entice her to want more, to get beyond the service that she was willing to portray in this little realm of pay to play. Sparklepuss: That was simply incredible. Sparklepuss: Like honest to God, hands held to heaven, amazing. Sparklepuss: How did it taste? Faye relaxed as her body cooled down from her orgasmic high. She smiled at the camera, her body still in its hyper Fulani style.FF: Well... I don't know what real cum tastes like, so... I made it taste like cake frosting.FF: So...tastes great less filling? She blushed as she typed out her answers, before a thought came to her.FF: So uh...do you want my phone number? Because... I could be persuaded to give it. And hey, we might live close by...FF: We could meet up.FF: If you want-I won't push or anything. Hope chuckled and leaned forward towards the monitor again. She had not seen the offer of Faye's phone number coming, not by a long shot. Sparklepuss: For real? You want to give me you number and like...go on a date? Sparklepuss: You know I'm not this.....dominant IRL, I'm actually kinda...shy. Sparklepuss: But yeah, for sure. I'll bite. Email me your number, my email is on my profile and.....we'll see what happens, yeah? Faye smiled as she leaned back and returned her body to normal.FF: I don't mind, I just... I really like you.FF: You don't always have to DOM me. But I want us to meet in an environment where you're not paying just to watch.FF: I'll send the email after I get cleaned up-I'm kinda done for tonight. She killed the chat and checked "mistress"'s profile, only to see she did live in the same city! "Awesome!" She said, sending an email with her phone number in it. After a nice, long bath, Faye snuggled into bed, reflecting on what she had done today, and wondering what she might get to do with Sparkle puss later...maybe tomorrow? The chat was closed down before Hope could say anything, but it wasn't long before an email had found its way to her inbox, complete with a phone number. She sat with her phone in her hand for a good ten minutes before she managed to work up the courage to text the girl she only knew as"Form_Fatal"." So um...hey. It's Hope: Sparkle puss... I didn't get to say bye or goodnight, but I just wanted you to know I had fun and wouldn't mind maybe seeing you again or... I don't know something. LOL Sorry, awkward much?" Faye smiled and texted back for the night. "Hey, all good-name's Faye over here. Turns out we live in the same city, so, what do you say to lunch tomorrow at the Café Lu chance?" The next day, Faye was sitting at a table outside the cafe-it was one of those that had both indoor and outdoor seating. She had taken a pretty similar form to last night, looking mostly the same as she did at the beginning of the night, but wearing a little pink dress instead of her usual clothing. She wanted to make it easy for Hope to find her, and what better way then to wear something vibrant and maybe a little cute? Furthermore, she had ordered a soda while she waited, and was idly sucking on it as she waited for 'Mistress' to appear. (was nervous. She had changed her outfit a grand time of five times to finally come back around to the first thing she tried on. The long deep blue and cream horizontal striped sweater had a deep enough V-neckline to showcase a tasteful amount of cleavage and the charcoal gray leggings had enough cling to reveal her shapely legs. The drive to the café had been leaning on the side of nerve wracking when she decided it was the best time to have a slight anxiety attack, it's been over two years since her last relationship, and she still wasn't entirely sure she was ready to open the door to a new one. It was the memory of Faye's soft smile and the blush that rode high on her cheeks as Hope commands became more and more outrageous that kept her from pulling an U-turn and fleeing back to the comfort of her third floor apartment. The parking Gods had smiled upon her, there was a spot practically outside the café that was just the right size for her beat up compact. And there she was, white hair softly shimmering, looking nothing short of adorable in the cutest, little pink dress. Hope suddenly felt a tad under dressed and silently berated herself for not taking more of a style risk. She took a deep breath and strode forward to meet the girl who had willingly fucked herself with her own tail as she sucked a giant cock that erupted between her gargantuan breasts. Image Just look at my AVI, that's basically Faye Faye saw Hope coming up and waved eagerly at her. After waving, she realised that this lady might not be Hope-she hadn't gotten a good look at Mistress. But the girl she waved at was strolling over to where she sat, so she must be Hope. "Well, hello there, Hope." Faye said with a smile and a sip of her drink. "I would've ordered something for you, but I didn't know what you liked." She said. "Please, sit down! This table is ours for as long as we like it." She said." So...um... I guess it's a little awkward to meet after, uh, last night, but...okay, I just want to establish a rule. No talking about my...abilities...in public. We're a little, you know, rare and mostly unheard of." Faye explained. She looked Hope right in the eyes-oh dear god, those eyes were so cute. Hope pulled the chair out and slipped in behind to the table to sit opposite Faye. The smile on her face was caught somewhere between subtle nerves and a genuine appreciation of the chatty girl she had come to meet. She chuckled softly as she realized that Faye was just as anxious about this meeting as she was and nodded her head, "Yeah last night was.....unique and don't worry. I both grasp and understand the concept of subtlety." She folded her hands on the table and looked down at them, she really couldn't get over how beautiful Faye was, even more so without the filter of a webcam and her cheap monitor. She chuckled softly again before raising her head to gaze at Faye, "So...uh....you know how I said you were really beautiful? I, uh...your webcam do you know justice. The, the you right here right now is just....wow." Faye couldn't help but blush as Hope complimented her. "Aww. Stop it, you're making me blush." She giggled. "You're also a bit prettier when you're not a wall of floating text." She smiled. "So uh, I was thinking, we could have drinks here, and then, head back to my place, maybe?" She said. "I understand if you don't wanna, I mean, we did only just meet, after all...but I figured we could do something more friendly then, well, then a date. Just hang out, maybe pop in a movie?" She then blushed a little more. "Or if you feel up to it...something a little more in line with last night's fun." Hope smiled as Faye blushed, her head dipped to catch the full extent of the blossoming of pink over her cheeks and she chuckled, "I'm glad you think I’m better looking a bunch of letters, I think that's a good thing, yeah?" She bites her bottom lip and nodded, "You know what...we had such a connection last night that, I think I can't pass up this opportunity, so yeah. Hanging out and movies and maybe even.....snuggle a little?" Faye blushed a little more at that...the idea of snuggling was quite a lovely one. And Faye had to admit...sex wasn't out of the question either. But just because she was horny after growing a dick last night didn't mean Hope was just as horny. I mean, it was different for regular people...right? "Should we just say to hell with the drinks here and head to my place? I didn't drive, it was only a five-minute walk...but if you've got a car I can give directions." She said, smiling up at Hope. "Don't worry, I promise not to shape-shift in your car, I'm better than that."" What do you say?" She finished. Hope chewed her bottom lip as she considered what Faye had offered. She didn'ttreelike some psychopathic, internet, house of torture, serial killer, on the contrary: she seemed like a sweet, adorable and totally dateable girl. She took a deep breath and said, "Okay...why not? But, I just gotta quickly..." She pulled out her phone and hurriedly texted her brother to let him know he was going to Faye's place and if he didn't hear anything from her in the next twenty-four hours, then to come save her from a saw-like contraption where she would have to make a decision between her freedom and her right hand. Hope slipped the phone back into her pocket and grinned at Faye, "Alright then, cutie. Let's go to your place. Just promise me that you don't have any nefarious plans to kill me then eat me." Hope's brother responded that yeah, he'd save her, but how many Jigsaw killers did you meet? Faye actually went white as a sheet and her eyes changed to being just pure orbs of white, at least until she shook it off. "Why would you say that?" Faye said, a hurt tone creeping into her voice. "Even if you were joking... Hope..." Faye grabbed Hope's hand as the pair rose from the table. "I...don't think you get it. You're the first person I've ever had the courage to...do my thing...in front of. Except for my sister and my mom, you're the only one who knows. So just hearing that you think I might in some way hurt you..." The young shape-shifter was starting to tear up at that. Hope squeezed Faye's hand and chuckled softly with a gentle sympathy, "AAAW, Faye. I was just playing." She pulled her hand and wrapped both arms around Faye, "It's not because of your unique abilities, but because you're one of those people of the internet...you know, how a certain generation thinks every single person you speak to on the internet is a deranged stalk and slasher? I didn't mean to upset you, you silly think." Faye relaxed a little as Hope hugged her. "I... I know. I know it's a joke, I just..." She shook her head. "Like, I understand you're not supposed to go meet someone you met on the Internet. It just hurt to hear it." She smiled and walked on. "Come on. You owe me a lot of snuggles for that one! Where's your car? We have a couch with our name on it!" Hope pointed to the beat up compact and chuckled as she squeezed Faye tightly, "It's that hunk of junk right there, she doesn't look like much, but she has gotten me from point A to point B without fail for the past five years." Her head turned slightly, and she placed a quick peck on the tip of Faye's nose, "Again, I'm sorry if I hurt your feelings, that's just my obviously crappy sense of humor." Faye jumped in to the little 'hunk of junk' with glee, and gave Hope the directions to her little apartment. "Well hey, it's a car. I don't have one, so you already win over me. And don't mind the jokes, I'm just super-sensitive is all." She smiled and returned Hope's earlier peck, only on the cheek this time. "It's all good." With a smirk, Faye decided to lean back and let her breasts grow a cup size. "I know I said no shapeshifting in the car, but...hell with it." Hope grinned with the quick little peck on her cheek. As Faye grew her breasts a cup size, Hope's eyes flicked from the road to her breast in a few circuits, "...uh....um...you might wanna...like...behave....driving." "Oh please, it's right here!" Faye said, motioning for Hope to park. "I mean, if it was a high speed drive down the highway I'd behave, but it's a slow cruise down backstreets. Easy." She said, stepping out of the car and dashing upstairs to her apartment, quickly unlocking it to let the pair in. "It's a little, well, spartan. You know, bare..." She said, stepping inside. "Hope you don't mind." Hope chuckled and shook her head, "I'm sure its lovely, Faye. I'm not coming over to do a spread for Better Homes and Gardens, I'm coming over to snuggle the shit out of you and watch movies, right?" She followed Faye, her indigo eyes firmly set on the gentle sway of Faye's hips, "and maybe...a little of something else too...if .oh shit, that was totally sleazy, sorry." Faye giggled and grabbed a couple sodas out of the fridge as the door closed behind Hope. "Oh, were you thinking of taking full advantage of my skills?" With a chuckle, she grew those familiar cat ears and tail. "Thinking of making me your little FTA kitty?" She got very, very uncomfortably close to Hope, only an inch from the girl's lips. She was well aware that she was acting a little out of character-but she had never had the chance to be this close to anyone, man or woman... Hope inhaled with a soft, stuttering moan and her eyes dipped down to Faye's lips. Her voice was breathy and full of an obvious lust, "Jesus Christ, Faye... I am so turned on right now... I can't even think straight." She continued to stare at Faye's lips as her hands sat uselessly in her lap, long fingers twitching with anticipation. Faye smiled. "That's what I was hoping." She said, as she leaned forward just a little more and pushed her lips up against Hope's. Quickly, she threw her hands around Hope and pulled her close, forcing the ladies into a kiss. Faye's emotions were surging already...she was just as turned on, and she could feel her body reacting. But instead of fighting it, she let it happen. She backed off of Hope, breaking the kiss as she pulled off her dress, showing that her breasts were slowly growing bigger. "Better get my bra off before it pops, dear." The kiss was taken away from her before Hope even had a chance to spurn her hands into moving from her lap and she groaned with her disapproval. Her dark eyes grew wide as Faye backed off her to showcase her shifting body. Hope's head tilted like a curious puppy as Faye's breasts began to steel and gain delicious mass. Her swallow was audible, and she could feel her liquid desire soaking her panties." N-no...let them bust through it, Faye...it will be incredible." Faye smirked and simply let her bust keep growing until the bra gave way and snapped open. Faye had worn a weaker bra, not one of her better ones, so they snapped by the time Faye reached DD size. "As you command, Mistress." Faye said with a wink. "Tell me...want me to bring back that little toy from last night?" Faye said, pushing herself back into Hope's face. "Or are you about to pass out from how seductive I'm being?" Hope giggled with an awkward combination of arousal and nervousness as she nodded like a kid that had just asked if they wanted unlimited access to the cookie jar. "Yes...oh fuck yes. I want to see it grow right in front of my eyes...take of your panties and show me... Pet." She leaned forward and held her hands between her knees to prevent her from simply reaching put and grabbing Faye before she got a chance to provide Hope with a fantasy made flesh. Faye smiled and got up off the couch the two were sharing, before reaching down and taking off her panties. "Well, you asked for it. And your wish is my command." She closed her eyes and gave Hope a front row seat as her clit slowly began to lengthen and expand into an eight-inch cock! "Mmm...just like last night..." Faye said, as she also grew a pair of testicles, just to 'load' herself with that sweet, creamy cum that she loved-and that Hope would like too. "Ta the?" She said, starting to blush. "Jesus fuck......" Hope could feel her entire body tremble as she watched Faye's clit slowly swell and then pop past her lips. Slowly it lengthened and engorged into one hell of a great looking cock. Right when Hope thought it was over a weighty pair of balls dropped behind it like the very best bonus of all. Hope bit her bottom lip and her eyes slowly rose to stare hard at Faye, "You're not hard...fix it." "Better idea." Faye said. "How about you get naked? Cause if I make this thing hard..." She blushed a little and gulped. "I'll want to tear all your clothes off and...uh...you know..." She blushed even harder. "So...you get naked... I get hard...and we do it. You can't tell me you don't want to do it with your little kitten..." Hope felt a smirk rise on her lips and she shook her head with a slow and predatory motion, "Oh I do, want to let this pretty, little FTA kitty give me a damned good fucking, I think we both know that, right?" Her chest heaved with her growing arousal, her breathes deepening, and her voice took on a gravely edge, almost like a sultry purr, "But all kitties should have claws, Pet...now get it hard and show me how much you want me." Faye giggled and decided to play around a little with her shapeshifting. She balled her hands into fists, then 'popped' her hands open, revealing newly grown claws. And just to add a little extra fun, Faye grew an extra pair of arms, and stroked her cock with both of her new hands. "Well then, I guess I'll be taking the idea of 'ripping' your clothes off literally!" Hope nodded, her eyes never leaving the incredible spectacle that Faye had become. She leaned back on the couch, pushing her breast forward and Faye could clearly see the raised peaks of Hope's nipples pushing behind her sweater, "Now you're getting it, Pet." The bubble gum pink of her tongue peeked out to sensuously lick her lips and beckoned Faye with a single crooked finger, "Come show me how sharp those claws are." Faye chuckled. "This Pet is slowly going wild..." With a single claw, she started cutting through Hope's sweater from the neckline down. "You asked for it." She said, the material giving way-Faye had subconsciously made her claws even sharper, wanting the cut to be clean. The leggings were next, but Faye pulled on those instead of cutting them-she loved leggings, and didn't want to slice them up. "How cute..." She said, before suddenly slashing at Hope's bra and panties. "Only fair-you make me snap my bra off, I cut your clothes off." The moan that fell from Hopes list was pure lust. She watched with a growing arousal as Faye's claws made quick work of her clothing and she squirmed to facilitate the removal of her leggings, but when Faye shredded her undergarments she had to fight desperately hard to maintain her resolve. Hope nodded and the blue of her eyes was almost entirely eclipsed by her inky black pupils, "That was perfect, Pet. Now put those claws away and come and see what you have done." Hope's hips jutted forward and Faye could clearly see the crystalline drops of her want gently dripping from between her velvety lips. Faye couldn't help but smile as her claws became simple fingernails again. "I can see what I've done from here!" She said. With a laugh, she crawled onto the couch and got on top of Hope...only to suddenly stop. "I...just realised... I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing." She said, her face turning beet red. "This...is my first time...in any form..." Hope's legs parted with an obvious enthusiasm and a hand rose to push a single finger over Faye's lips. She shook her head and both legs rose to rest feet at the base of Faye's back, "Now's not the time for nerves, Faye. Just...just do what feels good, and I'm sure we will both figure this whole thing out as we go." Her hand curled around the back of Faye's neck, and she pulled her down to her waiting lips to bestow a devouring passion on her soft mouth. Hope's free hand delicate wrapped around Faye's cock and gently tugged on it to help guide her towards her waiting heat. Faye probably could have climaxed right there, from the kiss to all of Hope's little touches-and that hand on her cock! Oh, god, it drove her wild! But what drove her the most was to hear her name come from her lover's lips. Not pet, Faye. Alright, so, improve it was. Faye felt a sudden urge to just shove herself in, so she did, pushing forward and letting her cock slide directly into Hope's waiting, wet heat. She gasped as soon as it went in. "RFENWFCWFNV!" The sounds she was making were barely recognizable, and her eyes were slowly turning pink-pupil, iris, everything turning into hot pink orbs. Spurred on by the heat and the wetness, Faye dove herself in deeper, moaning loudly and lewdly with every inch. The sudden drive of Faye's hips slammed her think length into Hope's yielding form. A moan of perfect erotic release sung Faye's praises as Hopes hips jutted forward to grind against the halted cock that seemed to fill her as if custom-made for her. Her feet lock at the base of Faye's back and Hope continued pull her deeper into her starved body. Hope nuzzled into her ear and her voice was the sweetest of spiced honeys, "That it baby, see, it's easy, isn't it? Faye didn't say a word until she had driven every inch of herself into Hope. She panted a little, the excitement leaving her breathless. "I don't know about easy...but it's certainly fun!" She kissed Hope's neck as she started to slide herself back and forth inside-she wasn't all that experienced, she was just doing what came naturally. She already wanted to cum so badly-she had a hair trigger as soon as she had shifted, but she wanted to make Hope feel good before she just exploded! Hope's face was crumpled into a mask of pure ecstasy, and she groaned with a burning want as Faye descended into her neck, "That's so good, Faye...but let's use your unique ability to take it up a notch, baby." Her feet closed around Faye's tail, her toes stroked against the soft fur, "Why don't you grow a couple more of these and fill us both up? I want one in my ass, one in your sweet pussy and one in your ass... I want us both to explode, to be so wiped out we can barely even breathe." "What, tentacles?" Faye asked. "That's what you're asking of me-tentacles!" She smiled as her fur tail slowly changed into a slimy, thick tentacle, as big around as her cock was. And, at Hope's request, she grew two more to shove into herself. Steadying herself, she shoved all three new appendages in at the same time, crying out in bliss as she did. "Oh god... Hope... I can't hold out much longer..." Hope's voice rose high to sing Faye's praises as the cock-thick tentacle slammed into her ass, giving her the most delicious sensation of her body full to the brim with her new and exotic lover. Faye could feel the deep tremble thundering through the entirety of Hope's form and her wavering voice only highlighted the ecstasy she was delivering on to her, "Jesus fucking Christ Faye! That feels incredible! I am so close.just...just let go, baby." With a cry of delight and pure, unfiltered lust, Faye drove all four of her appendages in, going deep into the pair of lusty lovers. Another cry of lust, and Faye's three tentacles (and her one cock) exploded in orgasm, pumping both of the lovers full of Faye's warm, creamy, delicious goodness. Faye didn't stop cumming for a good minute. When she was finally, finally done, she collapsed on top of Hope, her arms around her lover, panting in exhaustion. "Holy fuck...is it always that good?" Hope's howl of perfect orgasm resonated through both of their conjoined bodies. Faye could feel the tempestuous force grip Hope's body as every one of her muscles wrapped around her cock and tentacle rippled in an effort to milk every last precious drop of her delicious ejaculate. As Faye embraced her in the heavenly afterglow, Hope chuckled and shook her head as she breathlessly tried to speak, "No...nope...that was...it was fucking mind-blowing." Faye just laid there and cuddled as her body slowly returned to normal-meaning no tentacles, and no cock. "Of...seems I can't hold onto my shapeshifting after I...explode." She said with a chuckle. "And yeah...mind-blowing...accurate." She blushed as she kissed Hope on the lips once more. "Hope... I love you." Hope froze as Faye dropped the three little words on her and she chuckled nervously. Her long hand tenderly stroked Faye's hair, and she nuzzled into her ear, "Faye...that's the afterglow talking sweetie...slow down, Kay? I mean yeah, that was amazing, the best sex I have had in my entire life, sure...but we have only just met, right? Let's just reel that back a little and spend more time together, let us discover each other's personalities before we start throwing that big word around, Kay?" Faye finally pulled herself off of Hope and sat on the other side of the couch, calming down before she spoke again. "Yeah... I guess you're right." She said. "Sorry. I guess that's the thing about being a sheltered kid. You start throwing around words like 'love' without really meaning them..." That was a good question-what exactly did she feel for Hope? Definitely lust...but was that it? "Anyway... I guess I'm not a virgin anymore..." Faye said, trying to, in some way, diffuse how awkward she felt the situation was becoming. Hope chuckled and grabbed Faye's wrist, pulling her back into her to wrap her arms around her, "Come back here, you silly." She kissed Faye's forehead, "It doesn't mean that what we have won't develop into love or that I'm not already feeling the little flutters of emotions stirring for you, its just it's a little, early, baby. I like you, lots, and I am most certainly in lust with you, but I want to know you more. Not the amazing freaky shape-shifter that fucks like a goddess you, but the person with the heart and the thoughts....you get me?" Hope nuzzled into Faye's ear, "So we still going to watch a movie and gorge on junk food, since we already devoured each other?" Faye couldn't help but blush more. "You sure you want to know about me? I mean, beneath the shapeshifting thing, I'm just this awkward bundle of not very interesting at all..." Speaking of movies, a look at Faye's TV stand actually dispelled the whole 'uninteresting' notion. There were plenty of movies stacked up high on the stand, along with a note that said "put this stuff back already!" "Uh, yeah...movie sounds good. Sex burns calories right? So we can gorge without worry...um...sorry for tearing your clothes off..." She said. "I've got a few movies out here, but there's more in my...um...you want to see a little something?" She said, standing up and heading down the hallway. "It was a guest room, but..." She opened the door...and revealed what might as well be a library. Hundreds of movies, all arranged alphabetically, from top to bottom on neat shelves. "I uh... I'm a collector." Hope lazily roe from the couch and trotted behind Faye, snagging her fingers to hold into her own, before pulling her arm around her waist. She leaned into Faye, resting her head on her shoulder as she gazed with wonder into the spare room filled with movies, "Look at all of this, how can you possibly claim to be not very interesting when you have all of this? Silly thing." Hope took Faye's hand that wasn't resting on her hip and brought it to her lips, gently kissing her knuckles, "We're always boring to ourselves, Faye, but to others we are a whole new world of wonder." Faye giggled as her hand was kissed by the lovely Hope. "Yeah, I guess...you pick, Hun. I haven't seen everything in here-there's a lot of like, 8 movie bundles and stuff. Anyway, pick one! I'll be making popcorn and like, ordering pizza...you think the pizza guy will mind if I answer the door naked? Oh, listen to me, all super casual and stuff now that I've had sex, I mean I've answered the door in my underwear and you shouldreallygetmetostoptalkingbeforeyoucantunderstandmeanymore!" Hope intertwined her fingers with Faye's and pulled her back against her naked body. She chuckled and shook her head, "Nope, that's it now. I am going to stay all quiet and mysterious for the rest of the night just so you can continue your absolutely adorable babbling." She gave a soft and playful grow before burying her face in Faye's neck and nipped at the pale skin. Faye let out an adorable little 'EEP!' as Hope nipped at her skin. She pushed Hope away just a little to kiss her lips again. "Well, point still stands. Pick a movie, dang it." Faye bounced out of the room to go order pizza and soda before Hope could distract her anymore, leaving Hope alone in Faye's massive, giant library of movies. Hope's giggle was low and goofy, she smiled as she watched Faye bound out of the room and shook her head, "so fucking cute..." She turned back to look into the room and its multitude of movies. Her cheeks blew out in a long exhale and the goofy giggle return, "Jesse, I don't even know where to begin..." In addition to being arranged A-Z, the movies were also arranged by genre. Whatever Hope could possibly want was here-Action, Comedy, Thriller, Romance...one section is even labeled "Chick Flicks XP". Faye returned, naked, after a few minutes. "Haven't picked? Yeah, I understand. Lot of stuff in here, I know." Hope chuckled and shook her head, she let out a long sigh then speedily grabbed a few DVDs off a shelf and padded back into the living room, "So... I went action, old school. Robocop, Predator and Commando....can we say eighties-fest?" She flopped on to the couch and grinned up at Faye, "So, you got blackies we can snuggle under?" "Aww, I was supposed to bring blackies?" Faye said. "I figured we might as well cuddle naked after the amazing thing we did. But...if you insist!" She reached over the couch (showing off her butt, of course) and pulled a large blanket up from the floor. "Start with Robocop-love that movie." An appreciative growl rumbled in Hope's chest as she watched Faye stretch over the couch. With a great reluctance she dragged her eyes from the glorious creature and padded to the DVD player, loading it up with the preferred movie. She was quick to return to the couch, settling under the blanket and grabbing Faye with both arms to pull her closer for tangled snuggle. She pressed a kiss to her shoulder and chuckled, "We can stay naked for the rest of the night silly, just under the blackies, keeping nice and toasty." Faye snickered and snuggled up next to her lusty lover. "Until the pizza guy comes." Which happened about half an hour later. Faye headed out, but before answering the door, turned her hair blue and her skin a lovely bronze tan. She brought the pizzas back to the pair and got back under the blankets. "Disguises are a dime a dozen. I could so be James Bond if I wanted to." Hope felt content: snuggled under a blanket with a gorgeous girl, eating fresh pizza and watching classic eighties action. Life really could not get any better than this moment in time. She rested her head on Faye's shoulder and hummed that contentment clearly as she nibbled on the pizza, "You couldliterallybe James Bond if you wanted to be, baby, but I like you much better as Faye." Her head turned, and she placed a pizza flavored kiss on Faye's shoulder. A wave of queasy heat washed over Hope, and she groaned slightly, putting the slice of pizza down on the paper napkin. She swallowed with a humid gulp and pushed the blanket off, "Faye...have you got the heating on? I'm feeling kinda." Her Indigo eyes tipped down to her pale body, and she was glistening with sweat, "Burgh... I'm feeling really.....weird." Faye looked over at Hope curiously. "No, there's no heat on...are you feeling okay?" After the confirmation that she wasn't, Faye it pauses and put her hand on Hope's forehead. "Yeah, you're burning up...maybe you're just getting sick? I can get you some water, if that'll help." Faye wasn't suspecting anything at the moment-I mean, yeah, it was weird that it was happening now, but getting sick happened all the time. Faye remembered some of the times she was sick-every sneeze changed her skin color. Not fun. The sweat began to run off Hopes body and she shook her head. Her hand shot out, and she grabbed Faye's wrist, "No...just....stay with me, please. Faye." Her head hung, and her eyes squeezed tightly shut, her breath came in ragged gasps and Faye could hear her taking great gulps of air, "I feel...really...like...really freaking weird, Faye.....baby...baby, I'm sorry." It sounded as if Hope was crying, but her face remained hidden, "I... I should have said it too. I mean...you are just so fucking amazing and beautiful, and it was unfair for me to...to just." Hope's face turned up, and her pale feature was drenched in tears, but more startling, her dark blue eyes had changed to a vibrant cyan, "I love you too, Faye." Faye was rather confused. Why was Hope losing it all of a sudden? It wasn't until Hope opened her eyes to reveal a completely different color that it clicked. Her face changed-it went from confusing to stern and disciplined." Hope, you need to calm down. Something very weird is happening to you. You..." She sighed. "You're becoming a shape-shifter." That was a hell of a bombshell to suddenly drop. "You need to relax, or you'll start shifting out of control." Faye held Hope close to her to calm her down. "Relax. Think of the happiest memory you have. Or just concentrate on us doing it, that should work to." Hope giggled and shook her head as her arms wrapped tightly around Faye and her hot mouth was on her neck, "That's crazy talk. You're the shape-shifter, baby...fuck..." Hope's hands skittered over Faye's body and her voice took on a deeper and sensuous tone, "You are so fucking sexy, Faye. I have never had anyone else get me so worked up." She shuddered, and she grabbed Faye's hand to force it between her thighs. Hope was drenched and Faye's finger where slick with her sweet juices, "Jesus... I am so fucking turned on Faye, it's you...just. God... I want to fuck so bad." Was it always like this when someone became a shape-shifter later in life? Faye didn't know. But she did need to prove it to Hope..." Hope! Think about growing a cock. Just...remember what I did? Think about that happening to you instead. Imagine it." She said. Shapeshifting was thought driven, so this would work... Hope's voice was an erotic growl against Faye's neck, "A cock? You think I can? Baby...you're the one with the gift, not me. Fuck Faye...it would be pretty amazing though, right? If I could do it just like you. Jesus, just thinking about it is makes me squirm, my clit feels to tight and sensitive." Hope's teeth grazed against the pale flesh of Faye's neck and her moan chilled the moist trail her lips had left, "I would grow the most perfect cock for you, baby. Long and thick, with a slight upward curve"Hope quivers against Faye and her hips press urgently into her...and something else, "Oh fuck baby...you feel incredible. But.but...it would be cut, and the head would flare just right so when I slip into you it, you would be so tight and have that little bit of resistance...uuuhhnn, fuck....then it would justpoppast your lips and ...and... Jesus Christ, Faye... I feel so... I just... I would just pummel into you and hit your g-spot until you howled to let you come." Hope trembled, and her groan came from her toes. Her hand slid down her own body, down over her full breasts and perky nipple, continuing over her smooth belly until..." Holy fuck!" Hope leaped back from Faye and up off of the couch. Her entire body quaked, and her face slowly turned down to look between her thighs and there it was. The perfect cock she had described to Faye. Standing proud and rock hard at an even eight inches with a perfect curve that pressed the corona to her belly, the blushing head was harshly flared to provide thatpopshe had promised Faye. Her eyes slowly rose to look at Faye, "What the fuck... Faye... I have a fucking cock." Holy hell it was hard to keep from getting excited as Hope described exactly what she would do with a cock. Hope could write the best erotic fiction with a mind like that. Faye nodded. "Yes. You have a cock. Either you were born with the power to be a shape-shifter and its only just now manifesting, or...oh god." A revelation came over her. "Hope... I'm so sorry...this is my fault. Cum...cum has DNA in it, doesn't it? So...my DNA must have gotten into you somehow...and now you're becoming a shape-shifter like me..." She shook her head. "Well...since I made you, I guess I have to teach you how to control it. See, it's powered by thought and emotion. If you stay calm, you can control the changes just by thinking. But if you're not calm, your body will start shifting on its own. So uh..." She gulped. "What can I do to help you calm down?" Hope's eyes blossomed into a blood-red and her face was flooded with confusion, "You...you did this to me? Fuck." Her eyes dropped to the phallus that had pushed past her velvety lips, she bit her bottom lip and one trembling hand tentatively reached out to touch it with a single finger. She quivered and gasped slightly as her courage increased. Hope grabbed it with her whole hand and gave it a squeeze, "Vaughn....oh Jesus...that feels good." The heat of her gaze turned up to Faye, "Baby... I think... I think I need to use it." Faye smiled and grabbed Hope's hand. "I think we need to take this into the bedroom." She said. She dragged Hope along, bringing her into her tiny little bedroom with her little twin sized bed. "Small bed...we'd have to cuddle." She laid down and winked at Hope. "So why don't you show me all those things you said to me? Because man, that was hot!" She said with a chuckle. Hope nodded, her cyan eyes still wide and full of a wild desire, "Lay down, spread you legs... I..." She swallowed, and her entire body trembled, the aching erection bobbed excitedly." I don't know...how long, I'll last", she leaned her knees on the bed and slowly crawled up Faye's body until they were nose to nose. The hot tip of the feral cock pressed against Faye's downy lips, "You want.you think I...um...balls?" Faye was already spreading wide by the time Hope was speaking. She put her arms around her lover and kissed Hope's lips. "Do what you want, honey. You could probably cum without them, but hey, I grew them, you might as well." She smirked. "After all, you're a shape-shifter now." Hope moaned, and her eyes fluttered shut as she nodded. Faye felt her body dip slightly and the head of her cock pushed a little further last her lips. Hope took in a gasping inhale, and she quivered, "Oh...oh fuck...they feel.they feel incredible, the weight and the swing and...oh fuck, Faye." Her hips pressed forward slightly and Faye could feel the resistance against the flare of Hope's glans teasing her virginal pussy. Faye moaned a little as she felt Hope's cock started to move inside her. She pulled Hope close and whispered into her ear. "Don't make me wait. Give me all of it...right now. Fuck me as hard as you can." She smiled. Hope's groan wavered as her eyes rolled back in her head and her hips surged forward in one fluid motion of brutality. The thick flare of the head of her cock, did indeed "pop" past the resistance of Faye's sweet lips and the heated length filled her sex completely. Her weight balls slammed against Faye's ass making a resounding smacking sound and Faye could feel the deep throb moving along the invading length, "Oh Jesus Christ!" Hope's hips moved erratically until she found a rhythm to pound into mercilessly into Faye's tight, virginal pussy, "F-f-f-Faye.... I'm... I'm so fucking...fuck...so close, baby." Sure, it was tight, and it did hurt a little, but dear god that cock was amazing! This must be what it felt like for Hope when Faye was doing it to her! She moaned out in bliss and held Hope close, smothering the girl with kisses. "Oh honey, you don't need to hold back. Just let it all out...pour it into me!" She commanded. Hope's arms pushed under Faye's shoulders, and she held her tight as her hips drove the alien cock into her with a pummeling force. Each inward delve was met with a grunt and a twitching swell of her hot member, "Oh...oh...okay... I. I...oh fuck, Faye your so tight and warm and fuuuuuuuuck..." Her hips slammed into Faye with a bone shattering ferocity, and she unleashed the boiling eruption of her ejaculate. Hope's voice rose into a euphoric howl as flood after flood pumped into Faye's tight pussy. Oh man, this felt good. Faye moaned out in bliss as she orgasmed alongside Hope, gasping as her pussy was filled with loads upon loads of warm, sticky cum. "Yes, oh god yes Hope! Fuck yes!" She cried out, bringing Hope close and kissing her as she was flooded. A little time had to pass before Faye could speak rationally again. "I...still gotta teach you about being a shape-shifter..." Hope laid flat out on Faye, she clouds slowly feel the cock retract from her pussy and the weighty balls pull back into her body until Hope was as she was before. The exhausted girl nodded and sighed, "Faye...how'd it happen? I mean...it was so fast. I...it's kinda fucked up." Faye shrugged. "We've only been around for a couple of hundred years. I mean, Dawn-my sister-she's done it with a lot of people and none of them ever became shape-shifters. Maybe you've got a shape-shifter in your family tree, and being with me just activated...it sounds stupid, but it activated your latent mutant powers!" She said with a giggle, trying to make Hope feel a little better. "I've never heard of this happening before. But you're back to the way you were before, so obviously, you're stable." Hope rolled off of Faye and laid limply next to Hope, her face half buried in the pillow as she listened to her explain her briefest history of shape-shifters as she knew it." Faye... I had a raging boner and a pair of balls... I just fucked you and practically exploded my brain into your pussy and...well, frankly, I have never heard of anyone in my family being anything other than just your plain old garden variety human." She sighed, and one visible indigo eye rolled up to look at Faye, "Baby... I'm not mad, weirdly, I'm not all that freaked out but, you think maaaaaaaaaybe you, for want of a better word, infected me? Like, you know werewolves and their scratches and bites and you just kinda...jazzed me?" "They don't have to be shape-shifters to pass it on." Faye said. "I mean, it was a DNA mutation that lead to us, and maybe your family just had a sorta half mutation and being with me made it a full one. So yeah, I guess I infected...can we use a different word? Infected sounds like I gave you some sort of disease." She ran her hand through Hope's hair, lovely tussling it. "But yeah, maybe I did." Hope leaned into Faye's touch, and she closed her eyes, "Well...either way, I got a lot more than I bargained for when I agreed to this date." She chuckled softly and shook her head, "So...you said I needed to learn how to control it, I mean can I still, like...go to work and stuff or am I gonna randomly grow things or change a different color or...whatever if I try and just go about every day life? I mean...you said Iseemedstable now, but if I like. I don't know grow horns or something at work, I'm gonna freak LOOF people the fuck out." Faye nodded. "The biggest thing is to just not freak out. You have to keep yourself centered. If you get furious, sad, or horny, you'll start shifting uncontrollably." She put a loving arm around the new shifter. "You can do whatever you like to keep yourself 'cool', but you also have another trick-if you feel yourself starting to change uncontrollably, you can stuff the change somewhere that no one will notice. So instead of horns on your head, horns on your back. Then you can go calm down and shift them away. Since you're new to this, you might want to keep a picture of the normal you around, so you can focus on it to shift back to normal." Hope snuggled into the loving arm and nodded, "Yeah... I am thinking around about now is a good time to have a non-existent grandparent suddenly pass away and claim some well-earned vacation time...you think a week is enough, enough time to at least get the basics figured out?" Faye thought for a moment. She had picked up the basics pretty quickly when her abilities first emerged, and Hope seemed like she could pick it up just as fast..." Sure, but only if I get to play the music from all the Rocky training montages when you're practicing." She winked. "Hearts on Fire seems oddly appropriate if you ask me." Hope's snort was quickly followed by a chuckle, "Sure, you can do that. Though once I am a triumph and I have faced the odds to come out on top, I do demand that you plat Eye of the Tiger at full blast." Hope rolled over on to her back and one finger idly stroked Faye's thigh, "But seriously...you think I can, like...handle this?" "It wouldn't be a Rocky Training Montage if I didn't." Faye said, taking her lover's hand and kissing it. "And yeah, I can handle it. You got it from me, I mastered it in three days, so I'm sure you'll pick up on it. I mean, you grew a cock pretty easily, I'm sure you can learn how to control it easily." She smiled. "So... Goddess....think you can handle it?" Hope chuckled and nodded as her hand grasped and squeezed Faye's plush rear, "I've got no doubt I can handle, it Faye. I have you and Rocky to keep me in line and in no time I'll have it under control, right?" Hope rolled over to press her chest into Faye's and gaze down on her, "So...what's step one, baby? I bet more playing in various forms would help right? Progression through play?" Faye sighed. "Actually, step one sucks. You know what I have to do? I have to constantly tease and stimulate you, and you have to keep your form locked and under control. I bring you right up to orgasm and have to stay right at the edge."" For five minutes. If you can hold your form for that long, well, you're ready to go on to the next step. Which IS progression through play." She said with a giggle. "So you were right, just a step ahead." Hope gazed up at Faye with large puppy dog eyes, "You've got to be kidding me...sweetie, I can barely hold back when I'm in the zone as it is. So you're saying you have to get me into a place where I am fit to just pop, hold it and not let my body do the crazy switcheroo thing?" She shook her head and chuckled without mirth, "Oh man....it's going to be a long week." Faye nodded. "Hey, you think it's easy for me? I mean, I suppose we can just skip to step two. Step two is way more fun...but we kinda gotta do step one first. Holding yourself under control is the basis for everything else-or at least, so my mom told me." She shook her head. "Imagine what it was like for me-my mom had to do the whole 'stimulation' thing for me..." Hope cringed and shook her head, "Oh man, that must have been beyond awkward, but no", she shook her head and looked up at Faye with absolute trust and adoration, "We do this by the book and I go nowhere until you think I've got it nailed. The possibility of just all out, you know...growing something or changing color or...whatever, just isn't and option." She rolled off Faye and on to her back as she smiled, "Silver lining though, we get to laze around naked for the next week or so, exploring each other's bodies, right?" Hope had surprised Faye with her determination, and her trust. "I'm glad you see it that way-took a bit of convincing for me to agree to it. Alright, well...shit. All my toys are at my house...hmm... Hope, what do you say to the idea of me having a vibrating cock?" She said. "The silver lining feels more like a golden cloud, actually..." Hope smirked as her lithe legs parted. A single dark brow rose, and the smirk intensified, "Vibrating cock, you say? Was there any scenario in your head where I actually turned that option down, because I'm telling you right now, this isn't one of them." She sighed with a mock resignation and rolled her eyes for dramatic effect, "Well, I guess you better get started with the torture before I bug out and shift into something awful I can never shift out of again." "One scenario. And it was a scenario where the idea was so sexy you immediately fainted." Faye said with a chuckle. "Which I guess isn't turning it down so much as me having to wait a while." And with that, Faye grew out her FTA cock once more, slowly sliding it into Hope with a gentle moan. "You want to know a cool side effect of being a shape-shifter? Absolute knowledge of the human body and how to work it." She laughed. "So, here we go..." And the vibrating started, at just the perfect level to drive Hope wild and crazy, but not enough to make her cum. Torturous for both participants... Hopes eyes grew wide as Faye grew a perfect phallus from between her tender lips for a third time. She wondered if it would ever stop being an amazing sight to behold, and she reckoned it never would. She felt the liquid desire of her lust for this beautiful creature flood her feminine flesh and already, before Faye even touched her, she could feel her own body wanting to shift, to grow to change in some way. The young woman swallowed hard and concentrated on the task at hand. The desire to just let her body do whatever it wanted was difficult to deny, but she wanted the magical vibrations that Faye promised, so she closed her eyes tightly and spread her lithe legs open further to receive the gift that Faye was offering. Faye knew that Hope was wanting to shift, but she was doing an excellent job holding herself together-quite literally in this case! Faye wanted to let loose and just pound away inside Hope, but she held herself in check-by the book, as Hope put it. She held Hope close to her body, wrapping her arms around the struggling woman. "You're doing so well, keep it up!" She said, sensing how Hope wanted to change. Five minutes passed, with each second stretched out into an eternity, with Hope having to keep her body under perfect, tight control. Faye had no doubt that Hope could do it-Faye had done it the first time she tried, and Hope was a lot older than she was at the time, so obviously, Hope could pull off the same feat-right? Hope clung to Faye with a fevered tenacity, her fledgling shifter body screamed with the need to twist and morph into something else. The concentration that was etched on the young woman's face was almost painful to look at, but the sweet cooing moans of pleasure made it clear to her partner that the trial was at least to some extent enjoyable." Jesus Christ, Faye...oh Gods, I just want to. My body is just..." Her head rolled back, and a throaty moan spilled from her lips, "I just need to... I need you and.and I'm there baby, right on the edge and I want to cum, so fucking bad." Faye smiled as the 300-second mark passed. Hope had managed it, which meant she was ready for the rest. "Do it, Hope. Because I know I am!" She cried out and orgasmed for yet another time, exploding inside Hope as her body let loose, her hair growing and changing color, her eyes shifting, her tits growing, and even her legs suddenly fused together and formed a mermaid like tail! "Just let your body do what it wants!" She suggested, since this was the time to break free. The approval for release was all Hope needed, her entire body imploded with the impact of her climax and she felt like she was a nuclear bomb going off. Her arms unfurled into long cephalopod type tentacles, her long lolled from her mouth vibrating at the end like a serpent's, her eyes switched to an acidic yellow green with horizontal pupils like a goat and a matching pair of curled rams horns burst from her forehead to curl around her ears. A look of pure panic flooded her pale features and her odd eyes were full of a frightened pleading. Her panting tones were elongated and slightly alien with the split tongue, "Baby... I...oh fuck, I am so... I am so fucked up." Faye smiled as she slowly made her body return to normal, granting Hope a slight clue as to what was next. "Hope...that was the point. Denying yourself is all well and good, but there are times that you won't be able to hold it in. The whole point of that five minutes was to get you to here." She nodded. "I know it's scary. I know it's crazy. But the true point of this lesson is to teach you two things: How to ALWAYS return to normal, no matter what happens, and if needed, the Emergency Override Form. Shape-shifters have their own kind of panic button-who knew, right?" She said with a chuckle. "Now, focus on your human body. On what you were before. Relax, and let your body return to how it was. Become the blank slate once more." This was similar to the speech her mother gave her when she was learning how to control it-Faye felt it odd that she was naturally acting like how her mother did, but she ignored that particular feeling for now. Hope watched Faye with a sorrowful look of a puppy just brought home without its testicles. She nodded her understanding of everything she said, but she felt an overwhelming doubt in her own, fledgling abilities. The tentacles that were once her arms writhed and pulsed with a surreal life of their own, making Hope feel more than a tad nauseous. She felt too afraid to move from her current position, as if something else would spontaneously change if she dared move again, but Faye was encouraging her that she could get back to her true form. She closed her eyes and took command of her breathing, slowing it down from the ragged pant the shock that the transformation had brought her. The recall of what she looked like was clear: the dark hair and stormy eyes, the crooked smile and the cluster of tiny freckles on her left wrist. She was pretty sure she knew what she looked like on a day-to-day basis, but there was an underlying worry that she didn't know well enough. Her eyes remained closed, and she instead sought out Faye to confirm or deny her progress, "Babe... I'm too, too spooked to look. How am I doing?" Faye watched Hope as her body began shifting again. It was pretty easy for her to return to her original arms-Faye noticed that the left wrist shifted back first, and there was a small cluster of freckles there. That made sense, it was easier to return to normal the more detail you thought of. Assuming Hope knew what her eyes looked like, those would return as well, even though they were completely closed. Hope's tongue, however, did not go back to normal. Neither did the horns. Both of those could be attributed to a mental block, which often happened in new shape-shifters, as far as Faye knew. "Okay...your tongue is still split, which honestly is kind of sexy, and you still have the horns, but that can be fixed. You've calmed yourself down enough, and that's a good start. Tongues are hard when you're first starting out, so I need you to open your eyes and stare at my tongue." She stuck her own tongue out, so Hope could use it as a frame of reference. "Think about having my tongue, and yours will go back to...well, being human at least. Then we can focus on the horns."

The Affairs of Shapeshifters (Angie and Tinkertoy)|rating:4.0

Whisky and Ashes, a Saxophone's story. (RedSatinSheets & Volcodom)

Seattle, a city of song and sorrow, a place of business, pleasure, and despair. It is this city in which our story takes place, a city that never stops crying. As cars traveled steadily along unknown routes, to far away places where the sky might occasionally show at least a day in the sun. However, this journey stops at a seedy little bar, in an unimportant side of town, just rich enough to keep out the gangs, but just poor enough to let the gray cloud of debt hang ever over it. The bar was a sign, it read plainly to the residents "no worries" and "rest" it was a place to drink, a place to smoke, a place to fuck, and a place to die. It was in this place that a dull man sat, his shoes gently tapping to a sound that had left him long ago. A chilled tumbler of whiskey sat beside him, sweating from some ethereal work, a burden he relieved as the aging man drained it, and raised his fingers, indicating that he wanted another. Beside him sat an aura, a positive shine of gleaming brass, even without her player she seemed to sing, the instrument beside him an old saxophone. The brass was a light amidst a foggy dankness that overtook the old bar, it was the mod, dark, sleepy, decaying. Yet as the man stood, a few old patrons began to stir, their drinks jingling with ice as some of them turned to face him. He was wordless, his lips wet with whiskey, and his eyes red from the ascetic, smoky air around him. No words were needed, no meter required, no backup found, just the man, channeling the soul of the bar through the long drawing notes of his beautiful saxophones. His style was sweeping, cutting, like a swordsman moving in slow motion through the air, skilled but lulled. The music was singularly beautiful, a requiem of sound coming from the black and gray figure. The music seemed to light the bar, even with such sorrowful notes the patrons seemed to smile a bit more legitimately, this was the good part of their dull gray lives. His playing stayed steady as people began to socialize, deals were made, kisses exchanged, and drinks ordered. The air was charged by people, and the music was the enzyme they needed, as the saxophone let out one final low note, the suited figure turned up his eyes, staring into the crowd as they smiled, some clapped, others tossed him a tip, dollars they didn't need to spend, on music they didn't need to hear. He bowed low, his sweeping raven hair hiding his dull eyes as he gladly took his tips. His song was simple, yet it made the evening for many, between cigarettes and his drinks the old player played songs. Each one soft, sad, and sweeping, their beauty rivaling the sun they so rarely got to see. The dull black suit the man wore, well-kept and fitted, a relic from some bygone era, his mouth never spoke more than a word, a simple "thanks" or "whiskey" as people moved about him, they acknowledged him, and he nodded to them. His dull eyes never seemed to make contact, they moved constantly, lagging days behind sharp young eyes, lost in a past. He looked down to his hands, and sighed, just drunk enough that they were blurry, drunk enough that he forgot, that the blood seemed to be a little less visible, this night he might sleep... She heard the sound and knew it was him; the humming notes echoed through the floorboard below her, and it was that sound as well as the white dust on her nose that kept her body moving to the rhythm her partner had set. Did he know that they used the beat of his music to drive one another toward some sort of release? She used it as an escape; the man above her used it as a joke – a means to slide in and out of her as if he were the one playing the instrument that was leading her closer to another faux release. Cinnamon closed her eyes and allowed her thoughts to drift to the bar below. She was paid up for the month and the bartender knew how she earned her money; yet he said nothing – he didn't even take her up on the offers she'd made to make him one of her regulars. She knew he was a kind soul and a happily attached man and for that she was thankful. As the man above her pulled out and coated her with his seed, she turned her head away and looked at the bottles that rested just inches from her outstretched hand. The bed shifted, and she glanced at the money being tossed at her naked, cum-covered flesh. It was the agreed upon amount, and so she said nothing, then again her words would have made little to no sense to either of them had she chosen to speak. The bourbon, scotch, whiskey – whatever she'd consumed along with the powder up her nose had left her almost incoherent. Footsteps walking away, and a door closing told her she was once again alone. Another song drifted up, and she felt her body roll to one side, so she could better hear his playing. There was a lonesome melody that always slipped through the brass instrument; often it called for her, as did his gaze. Just as often she ignored it. She knew what he was thinking – or so she believed she did – he saw a poor victim, and yet he never offered to aid her, nor had he once taken her up on the offer to fuck him. He was too good for her, she guessed and he was right. Cinnamon sat up; the world tilted and then righted itself. She picked up a lit cigarette and took a long draw from it before snuffing it out. The seeds of a nameless man dripped down her flesh as well as her sex. She shuddered at the disgust within herself, but the green bills caught her attention. A trembling hand reached for the cash, and soon it was tucked in a box, hidden beneath a loose floorboard. After stashing the paper gold, she went to the bathroom and did her best to look more than the whore she was. Her fingers dragged through her thick mop of curls and her make-up, skewed from sweat, was removed and reapplied. The thick foundation hid her bruises as best it could, as well as the telling signs of a life aged long before its time. When she was done trying to look her best, Cinnamon wiped off the cum and pulled on a tight black dress that hugged her ample bosom and narrow hips. A pair of black heels she wore gave her another six inches making her 5'11” and the swing of her hips as she made her way back to the table where the bottles sat, would give her customers the invitation to approach. She downed a long swig of the burning amber and headed out the door, mindful of locking it. The key to her room was slipped into a narrow pocket she'd sewn into the center bust of her dress. The cool metal was soon warmed by the heat of her breasts; the strength the bottle and drugs gave her, danced through her veins. Cinnamon took the stairs down to the bar; she walked a narrow hall littered with bodies embraced in their own erotic song and dance. She said nothing, knowing most of the women were involved in what they deemed a necessary part of life – she was after all, only one in a million – nothing special and certainly nothing more than another junkie and cocksucking whore. Her steps took her to the bar where she claimed a seat on the corner; her drink was brought to her, a cigarette was offered by a stranger and as she listened to him play the music of a thousand souls, she began to use her skills of seduction on the man lighting her cigarette. He hadn't seen her at first, then, all at once his eyes spotted her, that lithe figure, the bruises, the eyes. Cinnamon, the whore of the town, he knew everything all too well, bartenders can pass the best information, and the man behind the counter here was no exception. He had often seen her, stumbling, seducing, even once fucking out by a dumpster. He knew those eyes, the eyes of the dead, more than once he had seen that gaze in his past life. He shook his head, and sipping on his drink he began to watch her. She was so sad, every part of her, the antithesis of her occupation, and yet the addict of her lifestyle. The bruises, the powdered blood just under her left nostril, even the dull glow of her eye all cues of how much she hated what she was, and yet never acknowledged it, or so he assumed. He sighed, and continued to play, each melody, every note, he let his soul pour into the music. Songs passed by like the smoke in the bar, each one a symphony for the soul. After a time the patrons began to filter, in and out, changing like the flow of a river, but always there was the constant, the saxophone, the smoke, the bar, and her. It was this way every night, he sat, played and drank, collecting tips occasionally, but so often not caring for money or companionship, a silent lonely artist. He just watched, he always watched, always listened, and never contributed. There was something beautiful about this passing, something better than his past life, it would occasionally hit him though. Images from beyond, from a time when a young boy used a gun, when a man hurt those who stood in his way, all those travels, all that blood. The player shook his head, and looked into the crowd, all of them cheering for him, he smiled simply, and bowed, returning to his whiskey as he sat. Then with a sigh he began to banish those memories, wondering why he had such awful nightmares, why he couldn't forget that life. Shaking his head the saxophonist banished the last few memories, and returned to the world. Now watching silently, as the crowds slowly thinned with the hours. Placing the old brass piece back in its case the stranger lit a cigarette, dragging it out as the mixture of nicotine and alcohol soothed his now weary mind. It was over now, the peace and tranquility that the music brought, and it was replaced by the reality of what she was doing. Baiting a client, reeling them in – these things were done to the sound of the music playing in the background. In Cinnamon's mind it was her way of pretending she was normal. The lonesome melody would blanket the crowd, covering them all like a second skin, including her – and for a brief moment, she could look into the eyes of the stranger and imagine she was a normal woman sitting at a bar, enjoying a conversation between to people that were going to hook-up later. The dream however evaporated as quickly as the music had, and she felt the pressure of the client's hand on her thigh. Her gaze shifted from the bar's local musician back to that of the man who would help her put food on the table and cocaine in her system. Her hand moved to lay on top of his; she lifted his fingers, sucked on two digits, rolling her tongue across the flesh and smiled seductively. She asked if he was ready; he laughed, took her hand and placed it on his crotch. The growth was evident as was the invitation. Cinnamon rubbed the stranger's cock through the fabric of his jeans, making sure she covered the full length with her fingers and palm, pressing with just the right amount of strength to make him groan in appreciation. He moved from the bar stool, took her hand in his and pulled her along, weaving through the sparse patrons and their dirty looks. She lowered her gaze, but not before catching the musician's gaze. Her free hand came up to wipe at her nose; she looked at her fingers when she pulled her hand away, then lowered her gaze so that no one else could see the disappointment that reflected behind her drug-induced and liquor enhanced state-of-mind. The man was impatient and out in the hall, just a few feet from the stairway that would take them to Cinnamon's room, he pulled her up against him. His back faced the wall, and he ground his pelvis against hers. There was no time to deny her client nor would she – after all this was her profession; her life. Cinnamon went to her knees and as she freed the man's arousal and took him into her mouth, she fought back the bile that rose up from her gut. She closed her eyes, felt the man's fingers in her hair and allowed him to control the depth of their play. While he did, she chose to visit the past – one where she was a young and eager free-spirit. Her college friends surrounded her with laughter and her boyfriend, one of the more elite members of society held her up on a pedestal. The games they all played, the drinking and the drugs were simply a means to have fun and yet, it was the beginning of the end for Cinnamon --- cum shot into her throat, causing her to gag and the memory to fade. The taste lay heavy on her tongue; she swallowed and stood up; the man tucked his wet shaft back into his pants, zipped up and took her hand. This time she led him up the stares and into her apartment, where she would make sure he felt like the most important man in the room. All the while she wondered how long would he take and when would he be done with her, so she could slip back into a state of numbness, brought on by the pills, bottles, and lines of white powder that always seemed to beckon her to their side. She could count on them – it was much easier than counting on herself or anyone else. In her room, with the door closed and the lights dim, things went different from what Cinnamon had predicted. The stranger pushed her onto the bed, and before she could comprehend what was happening she had been restrained and forced to submit to a man who had been sent by someone from her past - a past she had thought she'd left behind. A warning to keep her mouth shut had been delivered seconds before darkness consumed her. The stranger walked around the room, looking for something. He shuffled through her dresser drawers, pulled open the ones in the kitchen, nosed through the cabinets and investigated her bathroom - still he came up empty-handed. He pulled out his phone and pressed the necessary numbers in order to reach his boss - when he explained that the search had turned up nothing, he was ordered to deal with the whore. Furthermore, he said he would, closed the phone and left an unconscious woman on the bed. In order to do as requested he would need some supplies from his van. Pausing at the door he looked back at the young girl; she was a pretty thing when she was asleep, the worry lines were gone, the sorrow in her eyes no more - he would leave her like that if he could, but even if she didn't have evidence on her, she still had it in her mind, or she had it hiding somewhere. She couldn't afford to be left behind - he closed the door, and headed down the stairs and then out toward his van, where he would find everything he needed to deal with another one of the Senator's son's pests. It was almost humorous how easy it was to identify a thug, or so the thoughts of the stranger went as he cracked his neck, his now cased instrument in his room. He didn't have to watch to know what Cinnamon was getting into, didn't need to follow her, or listen from the shadows to understand that she was in the hands of a hired goon. No he had given it away, his eyes, the eyes of someone who was about to kill, something only another killer could notice, the eyes of a young boy in the strangers past. Hearing the dull thud of a fist across flesh from his room, which was an impressive three rooms down from Cinnamon's, the stranger sighed. Shaking his head, he rose, as silent and shadowy as when he had followed the couple up the stairs, as much a ghost as when he had slipped past the two, so distracted by their acts. Now he was stalking, readying himself to bring death to another, and for no good reason, at this moment the stranger felt like a madman, but he swallowed those more complex thoughts as the footsteps of the heavy goon padded across the hall, and down the stairs. Picking the simple slide lock on a door was as easy as breathing, hiding the slender frame of the drugged up whore, child's play, and readying his knife and silenced Glock .40 caliber pistol, well those actions were just like breathing. He had done this before, it was as natural and artistic as his music playing, and it was as silent as his brass piece was lustrous. Even intoxicated, and having not slept for a day or more the stranger was a master, a killer beyond the death he gave out, and for the first time in the evening his eyes changed, to a chilling icy, even hateful tone. His next move, involved the goon directly, but it was so easy that all he had to do was stand beside the door, just out of sight, and right on cue the loud song began to play under him on the tiny sound system the barkeep had, thankfully he never asked questions with the stranger, he just played the rock song. Dancing surely ensued, and had the stranger not been so focused on his deed for the evening he might try to trace the notation of the guitars. Instead, he synched his heartbeat, calmed his mind, dulled his nerves, and readied his knife and gun. He had questions he was burning to have answered. He opened up the door of the van, slipped his hand inside and grabbed the gray duffle bag. His fingers gripped the handle, wrapping snugly around the nylon fabric. It felt familiar, an old friend waiting for his return – granted he had not left his friend’s side for long – it was his constant companion. Much was the knife in his boot, and the gun tucked securely in the holster at his side. He was a contract killer, nothing more, nothing less. He was hired to take care of problems – no questions asked. The sound of the van door closing was little more than a nuisance to the sound of the night, the music of the bar, the laughter and giggling of the passing patrons – whether they were paid customers of the local whores, or couples enjoying the seedier side of Seattle. It didn’t matter to him, only one thing mattered and that was dealing with the woman upstairs. He walked quickly, covering the few yards that separated his van and the old brick building that housed both the bar and a few apartments above the rustic and historic down-and-out establishment. His mind went through the contents of his bag. The cleaning chemicals, rags, as well as needles and vials weighed down the bag, along with a leather satchel full of different length scalpels, hooks, blades, pliers. He wouldn’t need those, but they were a part of him and where he went, they went. He took the stairs two at a time; his breath never showed any sign of discomfort. His pulse was steady, and his gaze took in everything around him. He walked up to her door and reached into his pocket to ease the key to her room out – having lifted it from her person shortly after he’d dropped her in a heap on the bed. His fingers grazed the door knob; it turned before he had to slide the key in the hole. Instantly he stilled, his eyes narrowed and for a moment his pulse sped up. He pulled his hand back, slipped his hand between his jacket and his shirt. The weapon was cool, but soon the cold metal warmed against his palm. It fit like a glove. He pushed the door open with the tip of his toe. It was darker than he liked, but he was no novice, and he prepared himself to deal with whomever had thought to interrupt his duties. He shouldn't have stepped so quickly, not a novice mistake but one that showed him not to be anywhere near skilled enough to kill someone who knew. The door lock was left open to ready his senses, obviously this man would either be a true novice, or have a little skill. Indeed, it showed that this was a man who valued his life, that was good, easier to interrogate. As the goon stepped through the door the stranger noted his steps, careful in the helix pattern to avoid any trips, and give him better chance to drop into a stance. The goon's obvious first move was a quick circle behind the door, and there he met his adversary. With a gasp the goon pulled the cold black steel of his firearm, a simple SIG Sauer, good gun, dependable, and easily broken into pieces. The stranger took no more than a flash, his hand struck the left thumb of the goon, the strangers body now parallel to his. Then with deftness not yet seen the stranger began to his the gun with his fingers, each blow striking a weak point or pin in the construction, and in a few moments the stranger held the barrel. Through the shifting of his body he had managed to strike the door, closing and barring it from within. All this happened before the goon could rack off a shot, and as he stood their, his half destroyed piece in his hand, he fumed. The stranger new the next ploy, throw the gun, grab the knife, stab the target, it happened every time, like some hidden compulsion within the human brain. Indeed, the goon did throw his heavy gun, he did draw his knife, and by the time he realized he was on the floor he was already to out of breath to scream. His wrist was shattered, his arm bone in three pieces, and his back had the boot of the stranger firmly planted in it, on a particularly sensitive nerve cluster. The stranger's next move was simple, he bound the goon's ankles with a piece of wire zip tie, and with his right foot dislocated the goon's good arm at the elbow. On the doctor's office scale of pain the goon was currently experiencing something akin to "Give me some fucking morphine!", but the stranger didn't think about that. Instead, he stood, grabbing the lost nylon bag, and opening it to see a kit that might have looked more at home in a CIA interrogator's grasp. The stranger sighed and flipped on the light revealing his hard cold eyes to the now screaming man. No use of his arms, his legs bound too tight to even allow him to roll, and pain to intense he almost vomited. His mind was blank, his throat raw from screaming, he barely felt his body being hoisted into a waiting chair, his half destroyed arms hanging limply to his sides. Then with a start he gasped, the air slammed from his lungs. The stranger had silenced his screaming, but this was no movie, he was still very much conscious, and the shock was coming, soon he would feel no pain." You know you will die tonight, I will not spare you, tell me what I need to know, and I will give you morphine, and make it clean, defy me and I hurt you, I have enough adrenaline to restart your heart twice." Those were his words, and his hands produced each medical bottle. Then setting them down the stranger removed a pistol from his ankle, smaller than the suppressed Glock he had on his hip, this little piece fired a .22 caliber bullet, strong enough to destroy a human knee, but not go through, and that was exactly where he pointed it. "Who are you, and who sent you?" To say he had been surprised at the skill level the other man held would be an understatement. He himself was a professional and had taken out many men in his life – some smaller, some larger than the man who now stood in front of him. He was in a lot of pain, that too was obvious, but as the hero spoke to him, he forced himself to calm his breathing and to concentrate on something else, anything else, but the searing pain of broken bones and torn ligaments and stressed muscles. He could tell by the calm spoken litany of words spoken by the man who held all the cards, that he would indeed die this night. There was a sense of peace that covered him, one he'd not recognized in years. It was comforting and had he been anyone else it would have been seen as insane, but for him – he'd dealt with life and death frequently, and he welcomed both the pain that would be inflicted on him and the final blow that would bring him to the death his mind and body craved. A smile, very and full of malice lifted off the man's lips. “Since I'm going to die either way and the pain, whether severe or not is going to take place, do you really think I'm going to give you want?” the man said, through clenched teeth. He listened to the room, curious where the girl was as well as when she would wake up. What would happen if she did? Would she cry out? Call the police? Allow the kill to take place? It didn't matter, not in the true scheme of things. Even if she were to call the police, he would most likely be dead before they arrived. He turned his attention back to man in front of him.“I'm just another man in a long line of men that are going to be sent to deal with her,” he admitted. Wincing slightly on the pain he felt; his mind was growing more numb to the discomfort, but only because of his training. “Who sent me?” he chuckled low. “I only know what I'm given – find the girl and deal with her. I'm hired through various different channels.” He looked back at the man. “You know how it works – a guy knows a guy, who knows a guy who knows a guy.”“Kill me fast or slow – doesn't matter to me –- but like I said, I'm only one of many. I'd suggest you take the whore far, far away from here and run as fast as you can,” his gaze shifted to the bed, “fuck her too – she's got a mouth like no other and I bet her pussy isn't to lose from all the cock she's used to takin'.” Darkness was the first thing Cinnamon saw when she opened her eyes; pain was the first thing she felt when she became aware of her surroundings. Her wrists were tied together, as were her ankles. She took a deep breath, trying to calm the beating of her heart. Her mind suddenly seemed to clear of all narcotics as she listened to the sounds just on the other side of the closet door. There were two men, as far as she could tell. Their voices were muffled, and hushed, though occasionally one would cry out in pain. The music downstairs was loud, but then again it was always loud, this was no surprise and as Cinnamon's memories returned she realized that whoever was on the other side of the door had most likely saved her life. The man had used her in a way that most women would find haunting, but Cinnamon had welcomed each forceful thrust and slap – she deserved the pain and suffering that was delivered to her – she was worth nothing better. But then he had gone crazy, starting asking her about a man from her past – a past she had given up a long time ago. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath in order to scream – just as she was about to she stopped. She didn't need to be part of the problem; she needed to try and save herself. With the desire to live another day, Cinnamon began to gnaw on the thin strips of leather that had been used to restrain her wrists. The stranger shook his head, unscrewing the suppressor from the low caliber weapon in his hand. The lesser killer had given him all the information necessary at this point. Someone out there wanted Cinnamon dead, and they had money to do it. All he needed to do now was finish his business here before the little mouse nibbled out of her restraints." Thank you" He whispered simply as he began preparing the morphine, and with haste injecting the fluid into his captive's neck. The amount was more than enough to kill they would be assassin, but to be certain the stranger snapped the goons neck, in one fluid motion. There was no point in doing more yet, first he had to be certain the mouse in the closet was taken care of. He slowly moved to the closet, and opened the door holding his fingers to his lips in the "shh" sing, as the music was slowly dying down, and a scream might make this situation very awkward. Simply flicking his wrist twice the stranger freed Cinnamon from the bonds that only twenty minutes ago would have killed her. He sighed as he looked at her, the woman beyond his power, the proof that he could only destroy, never create. A melody passed slowly through his conscious, a long slow note, something that codified his sadness as he looked at the beautiful mess before him. His knife was away in seconds, and after a moment of looking at her, he realized that there were three people in the room, a problem that needed to be rectified. Just like that the music stopped, the harsh realization that it was time." Cin, you need to run, leave this town, change your name, and never mention what happened tonight. If you stay here you will have another moment like this, and I cannot guarantee you will live." He spoke softly as he worked, his arms busy wrapping they would be killer in plastic he had brought in, very useful for disposal. He shook his head gently, preparing a disposal spot for the body. An abandoned building, slated for an arson hit, it was a common dump spot, a part of his past life." I know a few people who can give you some fake papers, might be able to get you out of here, just lay off the hard stuff for a day or two, these guys are straight laced." He chuckled grimly noting the not so liberal nature of his contacts. He hoped they'd understand, they were the best after all. Furthermore, he began to wipe the blood the altercation had spilled when he decided to look back at Cinnamon, trying not to imagine her in his arms. Everything happened so fast that Cinnamon’s head was left spinning, not only from the body’s natural ability to sober up from a shot of adrenaline, but from the way he moved around the room and spoke to her. It took her a few seconds to hear what he was saying and to comprehend that the body he was wrapping up in some sort of plastic had been the client that had taken her by surprise. She touched her bruised jaw, winced at the pain and stared at the chaos that was around her. It was a controlled chaos, and she knew the only reason she was alive to witness it was because of the man that was looking back at her. She lifted her hand and wiped at her nose and then her eyes. He was telling her there would be more, and she needed to run, change her name, and disappear. Why? She stared at him with the unspoken question hovering between them. Her hands started to shake as she realized that once again she was going to have to pick up and leave. The drugs and alcohol began to take back what the initial rush of shock had been fueling her. She stumbled to her bed, sat on the edge and reached for the amber fluid that still rested in one of the glasses that had not been knocked over. Her fingers fell short of the glass. “Who is he?” she asked. Her hand fell to her lap. “He was fine – I didn’t have a clue what was happening, and then he just went psycho on me, stupid fuck,” she muttered. She pushed back her hair and tried not to look at the dead body, nor did she wish to think of how close she’d come to dying. Her gaze shifted back to the drink, and she knew where she kept her stash of more powerful numbing agents and headed back toward the closet to gather them up. It took all her will power to walk past the body, now ready for disposal. Her gaze shifted to the musicians. “Why run? If there are more they’ll just fine me,” she whispered, as she reached into the back of the closet and found the plastic bag she was looking for. A shiver of desire rolled through her body as her eyes locked in on the snowy white blanket that would surround her in a sea of bliss. She sat down on the floor and opened the treat. A long sigh of pleasure escaped her lips as goosebumps appeared on her skin.“It’s okay,” she told him. “They can kill me. Just bury me with this.” Cocaine, the narcotic not the Clapton song, but that was another story. The powder that took away so many of the stranger's friends, the murder fuel of the world, rich people wanted it, and he had killed in the name of it. Truthfully he had never touched the powerful stimulant himself, he knew too well exactly what it did to people, besides his vices were already too... Painful. Now it sat before him, the object of his ire, the very substance that raised a vehement bile in his throat. His mind flashed, Scotland, a bank, whole piles in a locker, and then a school bus... He shook his mind free of the awful flashback, and steeled his eyes not bothering to finish the dream of a former life. With a deftness he moved behind her, looking out the window into the rain. It always rained here, that's why he came, hoping the rain might wash all the blood off, down the sewers where it belonged, in his past, a life wasted. Suddenly his body jerked, turning and drawing in an instance, placing the cool barrel of a large caliber firearm on the back of Cinnamon's skull "Would you really die so pathetically In?" His words were level, his actions never betrayed by falter or flaw, to a listener he might be talking about a dying transmission or a misplaced button from his coat. However, the firearm was a very real threat, steady, powerful, without hesitation. Anyone in the room knew instantly that the next few moments would decide the fate of the woman on the ground." You have two choices now Cinnamon, you run away, you stop this damned life of drugs and whoring, or I pull this trigger, and deposit two bodies this evening before I go underground. Make the choice quickly though, I need to dispose of the body and clean my sax.". To call him casual about the subject of life and death would be an understatement, indeed he was downright dull about the whole subject. It was inside where it hurt, it never stopped hurting really, every cool handle, every single drop of blood, every last breath. Yeah, he was cool on the outside, downright frosty, but on the inside he was shaking, worried about how he would live having In's blood on his hands, how he could stand not being able to save just one fucking thing in his entire accursed existence. It was a quandary, he only killed, every fucking day he lived waiting for the next bloodbath. All that internal chaos constrained by the simple breathing mechanism, his body working like a machine. Time was standing still, the grains of coke in the air were like a thin mist, not yet having fallen to the ground. The body beside them beginning to lose natural heat, the room itself growing cold with the aural breath of death, and that spirit of death loomed just over the strangers shoulder, closer to Cinnamon than anything had ever brought her, as dangerous as the man now bound in plastic was to her health, the stranger was now considerably more dangerous. "Answer me, now." He spat icily, hoping deep inside she stopped him. It was a thick foggy dream that curtained Cinnamon as the weapon was pressed against her skull. She heard the words, words she’d been told many times – stop doing this – stop doing that. It was funny how everyone enjoyed telling her what to do, controlling her and forcing her to submit to their will. She’s always admired the musician from a far; had never spoken to him, but in her mind she had seen him as someone who would listen if one felt the urge to speak. Or simply sit with you, if one read between the lines and knew speaking was a wasted effort for the moment. But as he threatened to kill her, her mind cleared, and she realized he was no better than those that had come before and would be no better than those that would come after. He was just as controlling as everyone else. It took some time, probably more than either of the realized for her to answer his question. She had thought about the answer. Did she want to die? There were times she had wanted to and even tonight before the evening had taken a turn for the worse she had wanted to. The man had used her and during those moments she had wished she was dead. She had thought back on her childhood. It wasn’t a wonderful life, if anything it was almost, if not more so horrific than the one she was living now. But there were good memories - a few. Her brief stint in college also held a few until she came across him – the man she was sure was trying to deal with her. If she allowed herself to be killed – he wouldn’t have to deal with her anymore, nor would she have to live with the memories that blanketed her soul every night. If she lived – what and whom was she living for? The past – the present – the future? She laughed, a sick dark laugh that would make another turn and question her sanity. He was here, giving her a way out. He would take her life and end it. Furthermore, he could end the suffering in her mind, the pain in her heart. Her memories would fade and she would be gone. How many times had she come close to the edge and always woke up back in the reality of it all? Too many times. Too many exhausting times. She reached back into her childhood. Her father was there holding her hand, they were eating ice cream cones, sitting on a bench and watching the seagulls walk across the hot sand. The ocean lapped at the shore. People were laughing and smiling. Other children were building sand castles. There was a boy playing with a dog and he stopped to wave at her. She felt the warm blush of her cheeks as her father leaned down and whispered that the boy liked her. She was only a little girl, so this sounded funny, but had made her tummy curl. Cinnamon took a deep breath and held on tight to that memory as she answered the musician’s question. “I’m ready now,” she told him, “go ahead.” The air seemed to suddenly smell of the ocean. Her father’s laughter was all she wanted to hear, and so she kept her thoughts focused on nothing but him and their friendship while she waited to embrace the infinite darkness and pain free life the musician offered. A tear slipped past her eyes as she realized the gift he was giving her. “Thank-you,” she whispered. The musician didn't bother looking at her, he didn't need to, he saw the regret and pain etched on her face. He saw in her the emotion he had seen so many times, they called it mercy killing in his business. He saw every vague memory play across her visage, and then stop short at an awful laugh. Then she asked him to do kill her, to end her miserable suffering, and for a moment he was sorely tempted. Then it registered, one memory, that single turn of the lip, and twinge of blood through her cheek. She had at least one thing to hold onto, one last memory to keep her around. He made no sound, but instead opted to put away his gun, shaking his head softly to the side. "You must really think you are the only person ever to suffer, that your miserable life is a standard of low." He picked up some of the tools he had used to clean the scene, and then with one single movement hoisted the large body over his shoulder, showing immense physical strength and control as he never faltered or made a sound." It's time to start living Cinnamon, stop hiding behind coke and pills." His voice was cool, and more disappointed than angry. Walking back to his room the stranger prepared began the process of hiding the body behind moisture and scent barriers in a special bag, yet another token of his past. Of course, he never closed the door, his room was at the end of the hall, and the only traffic the place ever saw was drunken and looking to In or another working girl for company, and pops could be paid for added privacy. In all actuality the stranger's room was nice, it was large enough to facilitate a bachelor, some equipment for physical conditioning, and several modifications to store his less than legal equipment. His Sax was placed lovingly in its case, already cleaned despite what he had told Cinnamon, and a computer sat off to the left beside his bed. Home sweet home, especially for a career murderer. For a moment he wondered why Cinnamon hadn't followed him, he had taken a number of her drugs with him secretly, and the cocaine wouldn't last her more than a few hits comparatively. He had been sure to remove any weapons, and while she had a razor blade for cutting her cocaine he doubted she would off herself with it. Regardless the stranger stowed away the surplus of drugs in a separate bag, and began to change his clothes, knowing every item needed to be destroyed. As he changed into a pair of unassuming jeans he lit a cigarette, for all his hate of drugs he did have flaws nicotine being amongst them. Moving to the open door the shirtless stranger knocked five times against the wall just outside, a signal to pops that business was complete, then a following knock for "no vacancy". His bill this month would be high, but he had enough for several thousand years, and pops calling out the lack of vacancy made him smile, the old man was ever a friend. Moving into the hallway the shirtless stranger looked into Cinnamon's room, hoping that she wasn't high, or dead. "Cinnamon, are you ok?" came the graveled voice of the stranger, turning slowly into the doorway. Noting for a moment how this resembled a bad pornographic film he saw once in college, and shaking off that thought, the last thing he needed was an erection at a time like this, well perhaps not the last thing, but it certainly would have made concentration harder. He left her alone and breathing. Her head hung, and her shoulders sagged from the weight of the realization that she would have to continue on. She was so tired of fighting and willing herself to go one more minute, one more hour, one more day. Cinnamon watched him leave the body bounced on his shoulder, like a giant child would if a parent had wanted to carry them around like a sack of potatoes. She smirked at the analogy and recalled another bit of her childhood. Her father twirled her around and deposited her on the living room floor where he tickled her until she fought to breathe. When he was gone, she crawled to the bed and pulled herself up. There in the center she curled into it, and wished for some dream to consume her, even if it were just another one of many repetitive nightmares. Her eyes closed, and she tried to concentrate on breathing, but the face of a dead man kept coming back to her. She rolled to her side and faced the door. There was only a sip of amber liquid in her glass, so she polished it off, before sitting up and pushing her fingers through her hair. The words the musician had said meant little to her. She knew her life wasn’t the worst one out there, but for her, she was done with it. It wasn’t her job to focus on anyone else’s world, just hers. She was taking care of herself and had he not interfered, maybe the deed would have been done after all and the peace she sought through death would have been swift. He had ruined that for her. She sat up and shuddered violently. Her hands trembled as she pulled open the drawer at the table next to her and looked for her friend and companion. A low growl of anger rolled through her chest as she realized that most of her lust had been stolen from her. She knew it was the interfering Samaritan; no one else had tried to tell her to give up the Coke – just him. No one else cared, so who else would have taken her life’s blood from her. Cinnamon stood up on shaky legs and walked over to the far corner of the room, where she squatted down on her knees. Her broken nails and callused fingers worked to loosen the floor board, where she kept a small stash of supplies that would take her to another dimension. There was also an old box, one that held a few photos of her father and a black journal that she’d kept most of her childhood and into her earlier college days. She pulled the box out and as she dipped her finger into the powder she began to thumb through the small worn book. The earlier pages looked to be several years older than they were; those were the pages that Cinnamon enjoyed the most, they spoke of happier days and joyous adventures. The pages at the end of the book, they looked almost new, and were written by a trembling hand and spoke of abuse, drugs, orgies, and sexual situations she and many other young women had been fallen victim to, thanks to the power of those in high places. Those pages Cinnamon didn’t like to look at and had often considered tearing out and burning, but she never did. A part of her refused to allow it. She knew it was wrong to dispel herself of her past, so the pages she kept as a reminder of how much of a whore she truly was. The sound of her name being spoken by a voice that showed some hint of concern made Cinnamon look up. She saw the blurry image of the musician, her self-proclaimed savior and heard him ask if she were okay. Her brows lifted; she tucked the book back in the box as well as the small bag of powder and the photos that had been taken out. Everything was brought to her chest, and hugged, much like a child would embrace a favorite toy that was just about to be ripped from their hands. Her lower lip trembled; she shook her head yes, though her eyes spoke the truth. She was far from alright. He had allowed her to live and for that she would most likely never forgive him. “Where do I go?” she asked. The voice was soft and frail and sounded as if it came from someone other than herself. “This is who I am,” she admitted. “Just a whore – death would have been welcomed, you know,” she told him as she pushed herself up from the floor and leaned against the wall. “And what will you do with him? And why do you care?” The questions were spoken one right after the other, with very little pause for breath or thought hovering between them. It was the most she’d ever said to anyone in years except dirty talk and wasted words of faux admiration for a man’s cock. The fact that she’d strung the necessary words together to form sentences surprised even her, and she wondered if the Coke she’d gotten was really as potent as it was supposed to have been.

Whisky and Ashes, a Saxophone's story. (RedSatinSheets & Volcodom)|rating:4.0

'Til Death Do Us Part (MCLCL x Nevermind)

Spoiler: Ajax {"light box_close": "Close", "light box_next": "Next", "light box_previous": "Previous", "light box_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "light box_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "light box_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "light box_full_screen": "Full screen", "light box_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "light box_download": "Download", "light box_share": "Share", "light box_zoom": "Zoom", "light box_new_window": "New window", "light box_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"} Athens, Greece. 406 B.C. The first time the pair ever saw one another was in Hekatombaion, on the day of the third rising of the new moon. It was a busy afternoon in the Agora of Athens, Greece, the population having not been slowed by the hazy mist that had fallen over the land. Bodies were jostling against one another as they moved through the streets eagerly whilst going about their daily tasks. Women accompanied by men shuffled along hurriedly, young boys darted back and forth between the legs of their parents whilst they went about business, and groups of bachelors sat tucked away in small conversational nooks, chattering away without care. It was a pleasant day, to say the least, despite the gloomy weather, and there didn’t seem to be anything amiss within the lively city state. Ajax, the eldest son of a well established merchant, husband to one of thebeautiesof Athenian society, and father to little girl whom he believed to be the most perfect being ever to exist, was among those wandering the marketplace. His family had chosen to stay in on that humid, gray day, but he needed to fetch a few things from various sellers that set up shop within the busy market. So, he’d dressed himself in tunic, making use of his wife Irene’s assistance in draping and fastening it onto his body before cinching in the finely made white fabric with a belt she had made for him once upon a time. The streets would be slick so he opted to slip a pair of carefully crafted leather shoes before affectionately bidding his wife and little girl, Ellis, goodbye. He’d moved on to the Agora then, making his way out into the glum midday heat and preparing himself for the additional muggy heat that would accompany the masses that were out on that particular day. Little did he know as he slipped from his house and out into the streets, he was about to set into motion a series of events that would change his existence, for better or for worse. He was strolling through a particularly high traffic portion of the strip when he first noticed that there was a horde of people all crowded around something, or perhaps someone? He furrowed his brow slightly as he slowly moved towards the throng of bodies, listening closely to see if he could pick up notes of whatever was happening. A young boy bolted from between the legs of a man that stood near the back, giggling as he clutched onto a string of meticulously carved wooden beads. Ajax reached out and clamped his hand firmly down onto the boy’s shoulder, causing the delicate creature to yip slightly and go rigid as he was ground to a jarring halt.“Fear not, my child, I seek only to ask you a question,” Ajax murmured soothingly, a warm smile forming upon his lips, “What is transpiring within that circle?” He could hear a man's voice fairly clearly from within the horde, but he couldn’t quite make out what he was saying.“Oh, Sir, t’is a wanderer! Come to speak about such wonderful, wonderful things! Go, listen to him! He speaks such beautiful truths!” The boy giggled excitedly then before taking off as his shoulder was released. Ajax lifted his gaze slowly, pursing his lips thoughtfully as he continued on his way towards the crowd. The man’s voice carried well, but Ajax was mildly hard of hearing as a result of a childhood accident, so he knew he wouldn’t be able to deduce what he was speaking about if he didn’t get closer. Normally he wouldn’t have bothered, he’d have simply continued on with his day and then hurried back home to his wife’s loving embrace. This time, however, something pulled him towards whatever speaker lied on the other side of the mass of bodies; perhaps the excitedly glint in the child’s eye had tugged at his heartstrings, or perhaps something deeper was at work in guiding him. In any case, Ajax knew he wished to see this man, and hear the words that he spoke which had attracted so many folks to his stead. The young Athenian slipped into the crowd, carefully working his way towards the front so he could hear and see the man clearly. For some reason when he laid eyes upon the stranger, whose name he would soon learn was Maximus, he felt a sudden tightening in his chest. He brushed aside the feeling, however, and tipped his head to the side, crossing his arms over his abdomen as he began to tune into whatever was falling from the vagabond’s lips. Spoiler: Maximus had traveled by foot for many miles to arrive at the Agora in Athens on that particular morning, a pack made from animal skins slung over his shoulder and filled with crusts of bread. A waterski hung from his waist as he stood upon a series of steps leading to a richer part of the market, where various important citizens made their purchases and did their trading, though Maximus cared very little about commerce. His long bright red hair shone in what little sunlight managed to pierce through the overcast skies above Athens, giving Maximus a strange, ethereal, perhaps even unearthly glow as a crowd of onlookers gathered around him, curious about the musings coming from the stranger's wind-dried lips. The wanderer held a long walking stick in his left hand while his right gesticulated, curving through the air as if he were cradling the words coming from his mouth so they could properly be dispersed into the air for his growing crowd to hear. His voice was loud and booming, stronger than his delicate but passionate movements would imply. A confidence dripped from his tongue as he lectured the group of strangers, a collection of merchants, families, women, and children, all kinds from all social standings, listening." We pride individual human experience, friends," Maximus said, his voice ringing clearly across the dozens of pairs of ears at his disposal. "This is evident in the ways we examine our own nature, analyze our emotions, write plays about our tragedies, tell our children stories of the gods and all the various troubles they encounter among themselves, the troubles they impose upon us mere mortals. Athens loves our emotions, but it does not love its people." Gasps could be heard swimming through the collection of citizens and non-citizens, but no one had moved away in protest. One voice called out from the breathing mass, "What forces you to make such claims, wanderer?"" A fair and appropriate question, friend!" Maximus called back. A wide smile bloomed on the man's face, hidden beneath his fiery beard. The hair on his face was long and thick, covered in a fine layer of dust from his travels. He was in desperate need of a bath, but that could wait for the moment. The people wanted to hear his words, and he was more than willing to share with them his cultivated thoughts. "Tell me, who here is a citizen?" A few blank stares came from the crowd, but some understood and briefly lifted their hands. The only ones who did so were well-off males. "Ah, there we are. You will notice that only certain individuals are allowed to become citizens in Athens. Where are the voices of our women? Our children, our slaves? Are we not all human beings? Do we not all deserve the ability to think for ourselves, to speak with our own voices, to live our lives in the manners we find pleasurable?" Maximus' eyes scanned the group. Some were looking back at him blankly as if they did not comprehend his words, while others seemed to have a look of consideration upon their faces. Some wore masks of disgust, while others had eyes that sparkled with new fire, as if Maximus was saying the words they had held deep inside of them for a very long time. "A slave born as such, or taken as a prize from war can become anything he wishes. A respectable member of society. A woman can become a powerful landowner or politician without being married. Two men can engage in a romantic and sexual relationship without the framing of pederasty, without the penetrated being deemed weak and feminine." More sounds were coming from the group as Maximus expanded upon his beliefs, more vocal than before. The wanderer's eyes fell upon a new young man, one who had eased his way through the crowd and was looking at him now with large, inquisitive eyes. Maximus felt his heart skip a beat as he admired the man's dark hair, the freckles across his smooth cheeks and his intense, mesmerizing gaze. He was stunning." You," Maximus breathed, pointing to the man he would eventually come to know as Ajax. "What do you think, friend? Should we be condemned and judged for who we love and what we choose to do in the privacy of our own homes? Do we deserve to be judged for how we show physical love?" The prospects that the man posed were … Odd to Ajax, or at least the majority of them were. The gorgeous man adored his family, he wished nothing but happiness for his wife and daughter, but the idea that one or both of them could lift themselves onto level ground with men was preposterous. There was thing he could agree with though, and it was that men should be able to express their love for whomever they wished without fear of judgement. While it wasn’t necessarily discouraged for boys to have relations within Grecian society, there was also a certain level of social suicide that occurred for men in same-sex relationships, especially if it was public knowledge who was the penetrated out of the pair. It was also never assumed that the pairings were meant for anything but sexual gratification. Men were expected to wed women in the end, and Ajax agreed to the point that one should be able to express their love in a manner that wasn’t looked upon as solely erotic attraction. The man was jarred from his thoughts as Maximus extended a hand, and the elegant finger that protruded from the very end of it was pointed to him. Ajax lifted a hand upwards to rest over his chest and he knit his brow together as the question was posed at him specifically. Suddenly he could feel eyes boring into him from all sides, and he glanced around anxiously in response, clearing his throat ever so slightly before speaking.“Well, my friend, it is well known by my fellow Athenians that I believe that whatever goes on in the privacy of a man’s home should be kept within the walls of said home, so long as there’s no harm befalling anyone,” he began softly, his eyes flickering around anxiously once again. He could feel the burning glares of men daring him to say anything further, and they send a visible shudder through his body. However, he continued, “And I believe that who a person loves is out of their hands. If one of my brethren were to fall for their slave boy tomorrow, I’d have no qualms with blessing their love. If Aphrodite and Eros see fit to bind them in the matters of the heart than who am I or anyone else to pass judgement?” His words were met with a ripple of murmurs, and he glanced around one last time before looking to Max, his freckled cheeks having been touched with a rosy bit of blush. He smiled at the stranger with the fiery locks, his entire expression and demeanor exuding warmth and welcoming, as he generally did. Ajax remained there for the rest of the man’s lecture. Even when the heavens decided to open up and a cool rain began pelting the speaker and his listeners, he remained. Even as the crowd gradually thinned, and eventually Ajax was left among only a few stragglers as the man wrapped up his teachings, he remained. He may not have agreed with every bit of information that passed the travelers lips, but he couldn’t deny the fact that some of his ideas were truly fascinating. He had so many questions, so much he was curious about as the man’s words clawed at his mind. Some unknown force urged him forwards, an unspoken desire to press back against the social norms he was wedged into, perhaps? Or was something deeper at work? He wasn’t entirely sure, all he knew was that he simply had to speak to the stranger. He had to know more about his teachings, and perhaps even about him.“Excuse me, Sir?” he murmured as he stepped up slowly towards the steps, moving so he was just one level below his desired company. “I must say that I’m incredibly interested in these ideas you’re speaking of,” he admittedly softly before reaching out a hand in offering, “My name is Ajax Kansas, and your name might be?” He paused briefly to await the man’s response before a polite smile lit up his handsome features, his deep brown eyes crinkling pleasantly at the edges as he did so. “I’d love to speak with you more about your teachings,” he gazes swept over the dirty vagabond briefly, “But first, have you anywhere to stay? I’d be glad to take you into my home for bread, wine, and a bath if you have nowhere to retire to. The weather is far too foul to remain out on the streets.” Ajax was a kind man, his wife often claimed he was far too kind. But in this case his kindness, he felt, was warranted. Nearly no one deserved to be cast out on the streets in such conditions, certainly not such a seemingly pleasant if not mildly radical gentleman. The handsome stranger in the crowd was not only beautiful and alluring but incredibly well-spoken, too. A grin lingered on Maximus' face, visible beneath the thick bright red beard that decorated his sun-kissed features long after the man was finished speaking. "Lovely," Maximus whispered in reply, his deep steel gray eyes holding the man's gaze for a moment longer before he continued, using the man's opinions as a springboard to launch himself into a lecture about the gods, their wills, and how human beings could never begin to understand anything the gods did regardless of what the old myths said. The gods were unknowable, their minds beyond anything human beings were capable of comprehending, and our efforts to grasp at meaning were futile. More murmurs, more occasional nods, more mutterings. It seemed everyone in the crowd had an opinion, something to say about the wanderer Maximus and his ideas. The crowd was used to strangers passing through the Agora and making speeches on the steps, but Maximus was an odd one, overly passionate and filled to the brim with ideas that challenged the status quo. Nothing too alarming. Yet. Eventually, the crowds thinned, and by the time Maximus had finished, only a handful of individuals were left. The sun was setting on the market and the wanderer sighed, kneeling down on the stone steps and swinging his animal skins around. The bread in his pack was stale, but it was all he had and better than nothing. A few coins jingled as he dug through his pack. Enough to purchase some more crumbs before moving on. He took a long drink of water from his skin, noting how light it was beginning to feel. Surely there was a well somewhere close he could use to refill. The rain was drizzling down on him now, already beginning to soak through his dirty clothes. His travels had been extensive, many miles had been walked and though the bottoms of his feet were tough and strong, he was tired, and the soles of his sandals were beginning to wear out. He was used to the constant moving. He even enjoyed it for the most part, but there were times when he simply wanted to rest, to lie has weary head down upon a soft bit of cloth and sleep without worry of where his next meal was going to come from. But today had gone well, so he had no reason to complain. Maximus hadn't noticed Ajax approaching him on the steps and wore a surprised but interested look on his face as he turned and stood to meet the stranger. It was the same beauty from earlier; he had stayed throughout the entirety of Maximus' speeches, looking upon him with dark, soulful eyes. He was even lovelier up close. Maximus reached out to touch his hand with his own. The wanderer's palms were rough, covered with callouses and more callouses, as though he had been worked hard his entire life. Where the damp fabric draped off of his body and revealed his slightly burnt skin, scars could be seen, lining the entirety of his exposed flesh. Line on top of line on top of line, as if he had been sliced repeatedly, unforgiving. They scars were pale, obviously old." Ajax..." Maximus said softly, the name sizzling off of his tongue. "What a joy. You may call me Maximus." The wanderer didn't offer Ajax a surname. He didn't have one. Or, if he did, he had forgotten it long ago." I'm afraid I'm unworthy of such generosity, though your offer of bread and wine is a difficult one to resist." His eyes looked Ajax up and down. He looked clean, well-fed, but not overly dressed. A merchant, perhaps? Well off, but not extravagantly wealthy. "I admit, I have traveled many miles, and my legs are tired from the trek. The opportunity to drink and indulge in good company... Dionysus would never forgive me if I were to refuse." Maximus smiled at Ajax, his gaze lingering on the young man a moment longer before gathering his few belongings." Please, friend, lead me to this wine, bread, and bath you speak of. I will follow you eagerly." Ajax gripped the man’s hand gently, and a smile touched his lips as he gazed into the stranger’s eyes. “It’s an absolute pleasure to meet you Maximus,” he murmured pleasantly, allowing his gaze to briefly run over the redheaded male as they stood their, their grasp on each other lingering a bit longer than necessary. The vagabond’s hands were exceedingly rough, and what he’d imagine had once been delightfully smooth, pale, freckled skin was marred with heavy scarring. The marks were clearly aged ones, and he found himself briefly wondering where exactly they were from before he cleared his throat and pressed the question promptly from his mind. It wasn’t his place to ask after such things, he had no business nosing in the past of a man he’d only just met. Besides, there were other matters to attend to, like the foul smell that was washing off of his new, disheveled companion. He released his hand as he agreed to join him for a bit of Grecian hospitality.“Of course, my friend. Right this way.” Ajax turned on his heel, reaching behind himself to clasp his hands together at the small of his back as he began moving through the all too familiar streets of Athens. With the sun having begun its descent below the horizon and a soft rain pattering down upon the Agora the marketplace had cleared out rather quickly. Ajax hadn’t managed to procure all the goods that he’d promised his partner, but he was sure he could simply go out the following morning to fetch the last few items. What he had managed to get was being carried in a crudely sewn cloth leather pouch that was fastened about his weight, clinking obnoxiously as it bounced upon his leg with every step he took.“My wife, Irene, she’ll be happy to see a new face within the home,” he commented lightheartedly as he glanced over his shoulder at Maximus. “I’m sure she grows weary of being graced with solely my visage and that of our servants on most days.” In truth Irene would quite possibly never grow tired of gazing upon her husband. Since the time they were children she’d had her eye on the man and, thankfully, her parents had their eyes on the Kansas family line. The family wasn’t well known for maintaining a particular amount of political power, per se, but they were extremely wealthy when it came to properties. To be able to place their daughter into the arms of one who’d be able to provide for her suitably was a great comfort to her parents, and to be considered a part of Kansas family was beyond pleasing to her father particularly. It boosted their social status a fair bit. To little Irene, however, it was the fates in the works that her parents wished for her to be married to the same man whom she’d loved since she could remember. Did Ajax love Irene? Yes, that much was indisputable. She was the mother of his child, and he’d adore her for gifting him with his little girl’s life until the day he died. Now, did he share the same passion for the gorgeous specimen that she held for him? That was debatable. When they were first married he most likely would have said yes. He was, after all, blessed enough to be marrying one of Then’s great beauties. Now that they’d borne a child together, and the excitement of a novel being in his life had worn off, however, he found that he couldn’t seem to renew his vigor for the lovely young lady. He loved her, but he wasn’t drawn to her as intensely as she seemed drawn to him, and at this point in their lives together he already had lost his desire for her. His libido had deadened prematurely, and his desire for his young bride seemed to have been buried along with it so it seemed. He didn’t find it to be an issue though, he didn’t have to desire her to be a proper husband, he simply had to provide for her and their children and see to it that they were as happy and healthy as he could make them; that he certainly had no issues doing. The pair made their way through the slightly dulled streets of Then’s until they reached an area where mostly homes resided. It was near the edge of the hub in a much calmer, quieter portion of the city. The home that Ajax led Maximus to was a fairly large one, that was shaped like a large square with a large open courtyard in the center. The home was connected by no hallways (though there were some internally placed doors), but each room held a door that led to the external yard, which was blocked off from the remainder of the world by a carefully crafted stone wall. It was a large abode, clearly having been construction to eventually hold a large family plus a full staff, though currently it only held a pair of servants, a chef, Ajax, and his wife and single child.“Welcome to the Kansas household, my friend,” he said softly over his shoulder, smiling warmly as he pushed his way through the gate and then held it open for his new companion. The stone and wooden edifice was decorated beautifully by lush vines that crept their way up and down the pillars, adding a beautiful pop of color to the otherwise fairly plain, but finely constructed building. It could be assumed that within the stark walls there were colorful murals and tapestries strewn about the place.“Ajax, my love!” Came a cry from the upper level of the house. Upon the leftmost side of the wraparound balcony a woman emerged from one of the many external doorways, cradling what appeared to be an infant to her chest. The fact that it was indeed a child was made clear by the resounding shriek that came from the young woman’s arms after she emerged into the humid evening air “Please, she won’t stop crying, I believe she wants you to-” the woman was given pause when she saw that her husband had brought company. “Oh, oh my I’m so terribly sorry,” she said with an embarrassed little laugh, beginning to scoot back towards the doorway.”No, darling, come down. You should meet our guest,” he called upstairs softly, motioning her down to them with a warm smile. The woman looked a bit skeptical, but she heeded her husband’s call and moved around the balcony and down the single flight of stairs quietly, holding their little girl close to her chest as she did so. The man didn’t look particularly well off, and Irene was clearly wary of bringing their child anywhere near this stranger. Ajax, however, seemed much more at ease.“Maximus, this is my wife, Irene, and our beautiful baby girl,” he paused momentarily to reach out and take a hold of the little girl gently. She was quick to quiet down once in her father’s arms, and she even began cooing pleasant as she grabbed at his long locks eagerly, “And this is Ellis, our little girl,” he introduced quietly, lifting his gaze onto the wanderer and smiling warmly. Maximus followed Ajax quietly as the handsome man weaved through the streets. It was apparent by the way he moved that he had most likely grown up in Athens, or at least lived there a very long time. By the look of his clothes and the cleanliness of his skin—especially compared to Maximus' own dustiness—it seemed as though Ajax was well established. It was rare for citizens bearing the same economic and social statuses as Ajax to offer the wanderer more than a few coins and a scrap of bread, but Ajax was welcoming Maximus happily, with wide open arms that left him feeling an unusual warmth growing in his belly. He enjoyed the way Ajax held his hands at the small of his back, gentle, delicate, two words Maximus never equated with himself. There was an easy silence shared between the two men as Ajax lead him through the now mostly empty Agora. The only sounds accompanying them on their little journey to the Athenian's abode was the melodic sound of the rain paired with the rhythmic jingling of the pouch at Ajax's hip. When the dark haired young man did open his lips again, Maximus listened carefully, enjoying the pleasant way Ajax spoke.“Tired of seeing your face? I find that incredibly difficult to believe, my friend,” Maximus laughed, feeling his tired body come to life, as if his muscles were absorbing energy from the cleansing rain. “I do not presume to know your lovely wife, but I know I would never bemoan the opportunity to wake up next to someone as fetching as yourself. At most, I will be a curiosity to her. I hope my grisly appearance does not offend.” Perhaps Maximus was being too bold with his new acquaintance, but boldness was never something Maximus worried himself over. Those who did know of Maximus and his teachings were spattered across Greece, residing in various city-states where attitudes differed, and the handling opinionated men varied from apathetic to downright disdain, though Maximus never stayed long enough for that hatred to follow him far. Those who knew him knew Maximus to be a man of unusual beliefs and stranger attitudes, though he was innocent enough on the surface. Those who knew Maximus better were aware that innocence he maintained his simply a ruse to keep himself from attracting attention from those with the power to punish him. While Maximus wasn't unfamiliar with large, impressive Greek homes, he found himself slightly taken aback by the size of Ajax's residence. The man lacked the superior attitude of most with similar wealth, and it had appeared to Maximus that Ajax dressed modestly for what was steady income.“I am honored by your generosity,” Maximus stated, his deep blue eyes staring up at the estate. Ajax even held the door open for him, something unheard of for a man of his status, and Maximus nodded appreciatively in response. “It is beyond stunning.” Maximus' attention was snatched away by the sound of a distinctly feminine voice ringing from the top level of the house. When he looked up, a beautiful woman stood in one of the doorways, a child at her chest. Maximus admired the woman, who he assumed to be Ajax's wife, with a soft look, knowing his own ragged appearance typically didn't sit well with rich wives. Indeed, the woman stopped speaking when her eyes settled upon Maximus' offensive, dirty visage. Ajax encouraged his wife to come downstairs to greet them, and she did so, though a bit reluctantly it seemed. Maximus bowed deeply at Irene's approach. “It is my pleasure, déspoina,” Maximus offered, instinctively using a subservient title for the lovely woman, though it would most likely be considered odd considering Maximus' status as a free man. When Ajax took hold of the child, the wanderer noted how quickly the child quieted. Apparently the little girl was quite fond of her father, and Maximus certainly couldn't blame her. The stranger seemed to have a soothing presence about him, even he could sense it.“Ellis is a lovely name. Hello, child,” Maximus said softly, not knowing whether the child would react positively or negatively to his disheveled appearance. Although he enjoyed speaking with children (their imaginations were something to be envied), Maximus did not have much experience with infants. He kept his hands to himself and his eyes low, his mouth soft, not intending to cause much of a stir lest Ajax rescind his invitation.“You wouldn't happen to have some wine on you, would you, child?” Maximus asked playfully. “Your father said there was some around here, and you seem like quite the trustworthy sort.” Ajax shifted his body to the side, smiling warmly as he lifted his big brown eyes upwards and over onto Maximus as he spoke softly to his beloved daughter. The infant looked on with eyes identical to those of her father, taking in the new, disheveled face and falling silent at this new distraction. She didn’t react negative necessarily, but neither did she react very positively, she just seemed thoroughly transfixed by this face which was clearly human but very unfamiliar, unlike any she’d ever seen before. Ajax smiled warmly at the interaction or, perhaps more of a non-interaction on the part of little Ellis, all the less, simply pleased that she didn’t begin bawling in response to the total stranger.“Ah, yes, the wine,” Ajax murmured in response to the playful murmurings of Maximus. “Come, my friend, we’ll see that you’re fed, and then you can indulge in a bath,” he glanced briefly over at Irene, “If you could fetch Ada and instruct her to draw up a bath for our friend, my dear. Have her heat the coals to warm the water as well.” Irene dipped her head in response to her husband’s request, glancing briefly at Maximus warily once more before hurrying off to carry out his polite commands. The young man turned, Ellis remaining cradled in his arms as he moved to ascend the stairs, simply assuming that his new companion would fall in behind him.“I suppose I should ask what sort of foods you’re fond of,” he commented, glancing over his shoulder as he stepped up onto the second level balcony, the warm smile that seemed to be his default expression still plastered onto his face. “We have a variety of fruits and meats on hand currently, I’m sure that they’ve baked some breads this morning as well, and of course we always keep an entire cellar full of wines.” Ajax led Maximus to the first doorway on the left most line of rooms. He pushed the door open carefully, balancing Ellis in his free hand as he allowed Maximus to step through before he followed suit. On the other side they found themselves in what appeared to be a dining hall, and Ellis squealed excitedly when she realized whereabouts they were. Clearly she had some positive associations with the finely furnished and beautifully decorated room. A series of lounging chairs were positioned around a low set table, a beautifully embroidered, colorfulrugsettled down beneath the set-up. Along the walls were hung a series of tarps that were embroidered similarly to the rug, one single wall was uncovered, and that was for the sole reason that there was a door set into the wall. A slight haze filled the room, likely due to the smoke that trickled in from beneath the doorway, as well as the candles that where lit all throughout the room, basking the entire space in a pleasantly soft, flickering light. It was an intimate space, clearly meant for the bonding of family and close friends, and yet Ajax invited Maximus into the private lounge with little to no reservations. Perhaps it was foolish of him to trust and accept others so readily, but it was a pleasant character flaw to have he believed, and so he never tried to pressure it though others would have him do just that.“Have a seat, Maximus, and I’ll fetch someone to prepare us a meal,” Ajax said in his default friendly tone, nodding in the direction of the seating arrangement before pushing his way through the door and into the kitchen to chat with the staff briefly before returning to the lounging area, settling down upon the edge of the seat beside Maximus, sitting Ellis upon his knee and beginning to bounce the bubbly little girl. Maximus found himself relieved that little Ellis did not seem fearful of his ragged looks. Curious, perhaps, maybe even intrigued if children, so young could feel such a complex emotion. His worry that Ajax would deny him entry into his lovely home at witnessing his daughter's distress seemed to be unfounded, and Ajax quickly picked up on Maximus' little hint that wine was promised and thus should be delivered lest he be a bad host. Ajax was quick to give instructions to his lovely wife, who once again gave Maximus a quick and uneasy look before returning into the large home. Maximus raised his eyebrows in mild excitement at the mention of hot coals. Weeks, perhaps even months had passed since Maximus had last indulged in a warm bath, typically refreshing himself and scrubbing his body in cold rivers he passed during his travels. Public bath houses were common among the cities he frequented, and typically quite affordable for the average citizen, but when forced to choose between spending his meager coin on food or bathing, Maximus found it really wasn't much of a choice at all. As they began to climb the stairs, Ajax inquired as to Maximus' preferred foods, eliciting a hearty laugh from the older man. "Friend, you are too kind, truly. Beggars such as myself have no place cultivating preferences. I will consume whatever foods you gift me. To refuse would be ungrateful." This he did truly believe. Denying anything Ajax provided wouldn't sit well, even if Ajax didn't actually mind. "I am also not incredibly picky about wines, my friend. I would be honored if you simply shared with me your favorite. Or, perhaps, your second favorite, if you wish to keep the other all to yourself." The lounging and dining area was beyond lovely. Maximus' eyes admired the comfortable-looking seats, the elegant woven rug, colorful tarps, and the warm candles, flickering and offering the two men a soft, intimate light. He waited patiently when Ajax disappeared to give more instructions to however many servants he had about the place, awkwardly sitting on the lounger, not getting too comfortable. Ajax was being remarkably welcoming and strangely trusting by allowing Maximus to exist in his home without keeping a watchful eye on him to ensure he did not abscond with any of the undoubtedly expensive items peppered throughout the estate." Ah, you've returned!" Maximus said happily, smiling as Ajax sat beside him, child still in his arms. "I was admiring your decorations," he explained, nodding toward one of the tarps hanging on the wall. "Your home is exquisite. I must reiterate I am honored to be your guest." Deep eyes tore away from the threaded artwork and settled on Ajax once again. The man's beauty was apparent and unparalleled. Maximus found himself wanting to look into Ajax's large brown eyes once more, to see what secrets the young man held hidden inside. He imagined Ajax must have been exceptionally popular as a youth, alluring to all older Athenian males. The day Ajax had grown into a man and been married off must have been a sad one for any potential lovers." I must confess, as grateful as I am, I am also somewhat confused, friend. You have allowed me into your home with no knowledge of who I am or where I come from. Not many would be so inviting to a man such as myself." “So I have,” the man chuckled softly, delicately holding his little girl upon his knee with one hand and allowing her to gnaw on one of the fingers upon the other. He couldn’t help but puff out his chest the slightest bit as his new companion complimented his home and the decor within. “My wife is rather fond of decorating, she hand-picked nearly every decoration and tapestry you’ll find within this place. I’ve never been particularly skilled artistically, so I leave most of it for her and just offer her my purse when she needs to coin to purchase new items,” he commented pleasantly as he glanced around the beautifully furnished room. Ajax then shifted his gaze back to Maximus, offering the man a genuine smile that lit up his soft gaze beautifully.“You may be honored to be my guest, Maximus, but I must admit that I’m honored to have you.” Directly after he’d spoken these words, however, Maximus fessed up about his confusion around Ajax’s abundant kindness. He furrowed his brow slightly at his friend statement, his smile fading and his lips pressing into a thin line as he mulled over his words and wondered to himself whether he’d crossed some sort of line. He had been accused many a time by those close to him of being too open and inviting, and it had certainly gotten him into trouble before. But Maximus didn’t seem the type to have the intent to cause him and his family harm, and on the off chance that he was Ajax was sure he could overpower him or, at the very least, hold him off long enough for those that he loved to get out of range of any violence.“Yes, my friend, I have been very inviting. I suppose perhaps I become a bit too enthusiastic about inviting new people into my life, at times, and my wife enjoys telling me that I’m far too trusting of those who may seek to do us harm,” he laughed softly and shook his head slowly, prying his pointer finger from his daughters mouth and wiping her saliva off on his robes before reaching up to rake his fingers through his hair. “I like to think myself a generally good judge of character though, and listening to you preach on those steps made me feel as though I gained a glimpse into your mind … And I have to admit that we see eye to eye on many issues. Tell me, Maximus, if our minds are aligned, as I believe they may well be, then what reason could I have not to place my trust in you?” It was a naive point of view for a man of his age to hold, that much was certain, but it was clear from the confidence he held in his tone that he believed his words beyond a shadow of a doubt.“We see eye to eye on many things, you understand. Hearing you speak was comparable to a handful of hours of introspection, and it was truly delightful to find that someone out there thinks in the same manner as I do. So many are comfortable with the rut our society and our Gods have settled into, but I’m not, and I don’t think you either … So you see, Maximus, that is why I’m so inviting to a man such as yourself. It is because I hear myself in you, and I hope to know you better before you leave this place, to understand your philosophies more deeply. Do you understand now?” he murmured, a friendly grin having painted its way across his handsome features once again, causing a slight crinkle to form at the outer corners of his eyes. Not a moment after Maximus had finished his long-winded admission, the door that he’d entered and returned through just a few minutes prior swung open, and a young girl dressed in nicely made, but plain clothes strode in. “Master, and Sir, I apologize for interrupting.” she bowed her head, maintaining an averted set of eyes as she rushed forward grasping a pair of metal cups in one hand and a bottle in the other. “The wine you requested, Master, from your personal cellar.” she set the cups down and poured each of them their shares before setting the bottle in front of them and turning to Ajax whilst holding out her now empty hands. Ajax carefully lifted little Ellis from his knee, and he handed her off to the caretaker. “Now you be good, you little sprite,” he cooed softly as he handed the happily gurgling child over to her favorite servant. He then chuckled softly and shook his head as he watched the pair of them hurry out.“Ah, now the drinking can begin. I find that conversation flows more easily between new friend after a few cups of fine wine have found their way down the throats of said friends,” he commented lightheartedly as he lifted his cup and held it up towards Maximus, “Shall we indulge?” Maximus' eyes grew wide with interest as Ajax spoke, hanging onto his every word, perhaps not unlike how Ajax had clung to Maximus' speech in the Agora. The wanderer had set his unimpressive belongings down at his side, his animal skin pack and walking stick looking out of place among the impressive estate. A smile lingered on his dust-covered face, etching lines at the corners of his eyes. Maximus was not unfamiliar with praise for his ideas, though he did attempt to remain humble when a stranger showered admiration upon him and responded well to his philosophizing. But never before had he managed to catch the attention of someone among the upper classes of society, a man with no reason to desire change or reform, a man with everything he could possibly crave at his fingertips. And yet, here he was, sitting in the man's lavish home and speaking with him as an equal.“You honor me with your words, friend,” Maximus replied softly, meeting Ajax's gaze for a brief moment before their heated silence was interrupted by a servant girl, wine jug in hand. The sweet liquid flowed into each cup, enticing Maximus' thirst with its fruity aroma. He offered the servant girl a smile in thanks as she scooped up the child and rushed out, leaving the two men alone. Though Maximus had nothing against the agreeable girl Ajax had been bouncing on his knee, Maximus found he much preferred the solitude. Neither man would need to worry about their conversation being interrupted by the fleeting interests of an infant. Unable to stop a soft moan of satisfaction from leaving him as the sweet wine flowed down his throat, Maximus gave himself over to the enjoyment. It was as if a single gulp had washed away all the endless days and aches of travel. The beverage renewed him, satisfied him, and before he had bothered to take a moment to savor the drink, his cup was empty. He swallowed his last mouthful of wine happily, setting the cup aside and reaching for the wine jug so he could serve himself. “This is exquisite, Ajax,” Maximus laughed, niceties falling away as he brought the refilled cup to his face once more. This time, however, the wanderer took a moment to pause and inhale, to appreciate the beverage before imbibing.“Pardon me my indulgences. I have not partaken in such wonderful drink for a long while.” He sighed, an almost melancholy smile gracing his sunned features for a short moment before lifting his steely eyes to his host. “Ajax... I am eager to speak with you about my ideas. And yours. I can assure you, whatever deep desire that coils inside of you, encouraging you to dive into the depths of my mind, I share such wants. It is as if the gods themselves brought you to me so that we may connect on a level absent from the lives of most men. It is that connection I speak of in many of my lectures. We are welcome to indulge underneath the watchful of society as long as we play by the rules dictated by men greater than ourselves. Or so they say. I do not subscribe to such beliefs, myself. I believe all men have the potential to be great. All men have the potential to live their lives as they see fit. To do what they most want to do, to love whom they most want to love.” He paused, grinning bashfully. “Ah, listen to me! I embarrass myself with my ramblings.” A long drink of wine followed by a satisfied breath. “You must be a happy man. You have a beautiful wife and daughter. A lovely home. What makes your mind wander free from the stories and lessons imposed upon you, my friend?” Ajax smiled warmly at the moan at escaped his companion at the first taste of the divine liquid that had been poured into their cups. The praise made him puff out his chest ever so slightly with pride as he lifted his own cup carefully in his long, elegant hands. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it, truly. This wine is derived from my families own vineyard, and I like to believe we produce some of the best bottles in all of Athens,” he murmured contentedly before bringing the glass up to his lips and taking a long, appreciative drink of the sweet summer wine. He took in a deep breath as he finished, setting aside his cup for a moment as he watched Maximus go in for his second glass. He apologized for his eager indulgence and Ajax shook his head with a soft chuckle.“There’s certainly no need to apologize, enjoy as much as you’d like; there are more bottles in the cellar that we can tap into,” Ajax responded reassuringly, settling back into the lounging chair he had decided upon. Furthermore, he tuned in to what the wanderer said, nodding along eagerly in agreement as he sipped at his beverage intermittently. Maximus turned to him with a question then, and he chuckled softly in response to the man’s words.“I can understand why you’d be confused, it doesn’t seem as though I want for anything. As you’ve said, I do have a beautiful family, a wonderful home. The world is at my fingertips, all I have to do is reach out and grab it. All the material goods a man could want, all the servants, all the fame, and fortune,” he reached out his left hand and grasped at the tablecloth as he did so, running the rich fabric through his fingers before dropping it with a heaving sigh. “And yet, my friend, if I’m being honest with you, I’m not entirely happy in my life here. I feel as though something is missing; there’s a gaping hole in my soul and I can’t seem to find a way to fix it.” Ajax was interrupted by the entrance of another servant, this one coming forth bearing a platter of fruits and cheeses for the two men. He set it down on the table quietly before asking if there was anything else they needed at that moment. Ajax shook his head and dismissed the servant before reaching forwards to pluck a cube of cheese from the platter. He sat back, nibbling at the small bit of foot idly as he started up his little speech again, though his subject shifted slightly.“Might I be totally honest with you, Maximus?” Ajax began as he lifted his gaze up from the cube he rolled about in his fingers. “I agree with you wholeheartedly. All men have the potential to be great, and that belief had been firmly cemented in my mind since my early teenage years.” Ajax paused, frowning as his mind clearly wandered elsewhere for a brief moment. “I have met men that are greater than I in mind and body, and yet because they were born in the wrong place at the wrong time their potential was wasted, their aspirations stunted. When I was a boy I met the most wonderful young man, he was truly a delight to be around; he had a sounder mind than a majority of my peers, and even our elders … Yet, because he was born in a weakened village in a time when Athenians were on a conquest he was unable to do anything with his life and his beautiful, beautiful mind. Because he was a slave there was no way to protect him when he was lashed through the streets for speaking out of turn. Because he was not a member of Athenian society there was no justice brought upon his masters when he was murdered in the most brutal, humiliating fashion for becoming romantically involved with their son. They held no trial for him, did not honor his soul. They did not raise a glass to his brilliant ideas, or his passionate beliefs. Furthermore, they brutalized him, deposited him in an unmarked grave, and life moved on.” Ajax hadn’t realized he’d begun rambling, having squished the little piece of cheese between his fingertips in his agitation, and he flushed bright red when he reached a state of mental clarity. “I apologize, Maximus … I don’t know what came over me,” he muttered softly, his features relaxing as he deposited the crushed bit of food to the side. Of course, he knew exactly what had come over him, grief. He wasn’t sure he’d ever gotten over the death of his first love, as he imagined most young men and women didn’t, and he tried not to blame himself too terribly for holding onto the memory of him as their parting had been so traumatic. Having seen the other slave boy, both of them in their later teens, laid out and slowly picked apart in an arena all the while folks gathered around to listen to his screams. It had shaken him to his very core, and he was never sure he’d be precisely the same, nor would he ever be able to look at his family or countrymen the same. He pushed the memory aside for the moment and put on another warm smile for his guest. “I just meant to say that I do agree with you, despite my position in life.” Maximus leaned in close, lips slightly parted as Ajax spilled his soul to him, presenting it openly, honestly is if they were close friends reuniting after years of painful distance. His face grew somber as he listened to Ajax's story, noting the pensive tone in the young man's voice that seemed to gradually shift into one of resentment and anger. Dark red brows furrowed together, sharing in the bitterness glowing in Ajax's eyes like hot coals. Too many times had men and women Maximus met during his travels shared in similar fates, disrespected and abused only because they had not been born into the right family. Maximus had chosen his life of wandering, of dirt, poverty, and disdain, but many did not have such an opportunity. He felt passionately for this young man who had lost his life, but even more he felt for the man left behind, the one forced to have to relive a memory of meeting a star and watching its light be burnt out prematurely by a system that only catered to the sun.“Please, Ajax, do not apologize for having felt something deep within yourself,” Maximus countered, shaking his head and reaching out to grasp at Ajax's hand. It was a bold move, some would consider inappropriate based on their relative social standings and cleanliness, but Maximus couldn't bring himself to continue adhering to arbitrary social norms when Ajax had shared a piece of himself, a piece Maximus was positive many hands not seen.“Your heart speaks to me. You have suffered, I can see it in your eyes. Many of the wealthy have not felt their heart beat in their chest and strongly as you have, and for that they are lesser. It is the poor, the weak, the broken, these are the ones who are truly human, not some pompous senator who bathes in the tears of virgins.” He scoffed, amused by his own hyperbole but meaning his words despite the exaggeration. “This suffering of yours, you did not deserve it, but it makes you whole in a way others of your standing can never be.” He smiled sadly, pulling himself away. “I saw this in you, I think. You stood there among the crowd, watching a crazy man ramble on marble steps. I scanned a sea of faces, some hostile, some friendly, others too confused to settle on a single emotion, and when I saw you... you glowed like gold among granite. It was impossible to ignore you. This is why I called upon you, because I felt the truth of you, here.” He lifted his fingers and pressed them softly against Ajax's chest. “You are a true person here.” After a breath, he pulled away once more, laughing sheepishly. “Ah, it seems now I am the one who must apologize for his rambling. You have connected with something inside of me. Makes it difficult to just sit still and politely nod my head. Admittedly, the wine does help in loosening the tongue.” He reached to grab cube of cheese and popped it into his mouth, chewing slowly and enjoying the pungent flavor. “As addictive as I find these discussions to be, I do not wish to sour your mood. Perhaps a nice bath to relax? I recommend we bring the wine.” Ajax lifted his gaze when Maximus reached through the empty space between them, grabbing a hold of his hands unabashedly and looking him in the eyes. Most would have recoiled, chastised the lower class wanderer for his crass behavior, but Ajax simply allowed his fingers to close around those of his new friend and smiled sadly at his reassurances. He lifted his free hand up and rested it on the hands that grasped his own and he held them there as he looked into the gentleman’s eyes. The sad smile perked up ever so slightly at his guest's little exaggeration. It was reminiscent of his former teenaged lover, this ability to lift his mood despite the heaviness held within his heart.“I do appreciate your understanding, Maximus,” he muttered, a heaving sigh passing his lips as he erected his stance a bit more in response to Max pulling his hands away. He was a true person, he was told, in his heart where it truly mattered. He supposed it was true enough, he’d felt the pain of loss, the suffering of loneliness, and he’d come back from it in a way that many individuals of his standing didn’t have to. Many would never understand the pain of having what they loved most in the world wrenched away from them so brutally, and in all honesty, he didn’t wish for them to. Despite the depth of soul it created in a man, he’d never wish the distress he’d experienced on any other. It was truly a nightmare he could never wake from, and he wasn’t sure just anyone could soldier their way through such pain. Maximus pulled away from him, and Ajax was drawn from his brief bit of pondering. He replaced his furrowed brow and tightened features with a warm, inviting smile once again at the wanderer's apology and suggestion and he nodded eagerly. “Ah yes, of course, a bath. I’m sure you’re eager to cleanse yourself in some warm waters, and I’d not mind a bit of a soak myself. There’s a communal bath just downstairs,” Ajax lifted himself up from his seat, grabbing the bottle of wine and smiling as he nodded to the cups, signaling for Max to bring them along. He led Maximus out of the dining lounge and down the stairwell in the courtyard. They stepped through another door that led into the house, though this time as the room was opened up steam wafted out into the mildly cool air outside. Inside this particular room was a deeply dug and beautifully tiled bath. Privately owned by Ajax, he allowed it to be used as a communal bath for the men and women who lived and worked within the household, and at the moment there was a pair of servant girls lounging in one rounded end of the large horseshoe-shaped trench. The two young ladies were tittering away happily to with other until the moment when Ajax stepped into the heavily steamed up room. Despite Ajax seeming to be a relatively kind man, especially when he was placed in comparison to other citizens of Greece, it seemed that his servants still held a certain amount of fear within them in regard to their master. He did his best to make them feel welcome, truly, but simultaneously there was a certain amount of control he was expected to maintain. He couldn’t be their friend because he was their master and that was simply the way things had to be. The women scrambled from their place in the bath, bowing their heads as they hurried to collect towels and move out. He shook his head as he set down the bottle at the edge of the bath before moving over to a small woven basket, where he began his preparation for stepping into the bath by stripping off his sandals and belt. “You can put your things in here with mine, Maximus. I can have your clothes washed prior to your departure if you’d so wish,” he instructed softly before carefully undoing the pins and knots that held his robe upon his body. Slowly but surely the layers of fabric that had been so delicate draped over his body fell away, exposing the smooth, evenly muscled flesh beneath. Only once he was entirely in the nude, his fabric having been set down into the basket, did he turn around to face Maximus again. He was as beautiful in the nude as he was fully clothed, and it was very clear that he was fully aware of that fact. He wasn’t bashful at all about exposing his body to others, even those who were near strangers such as Maximus. Nudity was rather widely accepted within Athenian society, but there was still standards of beauty that many wished to adhere to; Ajax marked nearly all the boxes of the ideal Greek man, at least as far as appearances went.“Shall we?” He murmured with a little smirk that could have almost been qualified as suggestive. The warm steam wafted up and licked at Max's face, eliciting a small smile of appreciation to overtake the wanderer's lips. When Maximus did acquire the coin needed to bathe in a city's public bath houses, his washing was typically hurried and only mildly enjoyable. He never lingered long, not wanting to attract the eyes of the curious or judgmental when he wasn't spouting philosophies on marble steps. His head was kept bowed as the servant girls rushed from the bath, leaving Maximus and his host entirely alone." The construction is lovely, such artistry in the tiling," Maximus complimented, waving a loose hand toward the hot bath. While most bath houses contained some amount of beauty etched or painted along the floors, walls, and pillars, there was something even more pleasing about letting his eyes roam around this private little spring hidden away inside the home of one of Athens' most valuable citizens. He followed Ajax to the edge of the bath, placing their wine cups down next to the bottle of alcohol, watching with interested eyes as Ajax began to disrobe." A good wash would be most welcome," he confirmed, lips parted as folds of fabric fell from Ajax's shoulders, down his chest and hips. The fabric continued to unfurl until the young Athenian stood there naked, his hardened body sculpted like one of Greece's famous marble statues. There seemed to be no flaws at all about this young man, though Maximus found he couldn't stare long without feeling his eyes burn. "My friend, forgive me," he said bashfully as he began to follow in Ajax's steps, unwinding fabric from his lean body. "You are unlike anyone I have ever met. It confounds me that you are still here among us, not whisked away by a covetous god to take Ganymede's' place. It must be a great blessing to be allowed by the gods to stay here as you are; you would make a stunning cup bearer, surely." Maximus laughed, amused by his own joke, though he had not jested lightly. Ajax truly was stunning, and this truth was brought into sharp contrast with Maximus' own marred form as his dirt-encrusted clothes were shoved into the basket atop Ajax's. The wanderer's body made his lifestyle all too obvious. Ribbons of lean, taut muscle flexed beneath skin worn by sun, exertion, and time. Along Maximus' malnourished torso were dozens upon dozens of small scars, tiny white lines littering his flesh and failing to hide a past filled with pain. He made no mention of this, and figured Ajax was a polite enough man to not bring it up, instead choosing to focus on the heat emanating from the waters as he slipped his feet inside, sighing happily as the dirt began to leach from his skin." Ajax, I cannot tell you how sublime this feels. There are no words." The philosopher smiled happily, grasping the wine cups as he continued to descend into the water, handing one over to his companion and sitting close. He took a long drink before setting the cup aside, briefly descending below the water to scrub the debris from his beard and hair. A few seconds later he breached the surface, returning to his seat next to Ajax, water dripping from the tip of his sharp nose." Your servant girls, they were quick to leave here," he commented, his voice soft and musing. "Do you often spend time alone here in the baths?" Ajax laughed softly at the man’s joke, and he shook his head in amusement. “Ah, my friend, if I were beautiful enough to replace Ganymede's then surely I’d have been whisked away already. But alas, I’m merely an average mortal man with features akin to my peers. I’m nothing special,” he retorted playfully as he turned to face Maximus. He couldn’t help but allow his gaze to run over the man briefly, and his lips parted ever so slightly as he took him in. Maximus may have been the one praising him, but despite the scars and calluses that marked the body of a working man, Ajax found himself rather enthralled by the wanderer’s form. Why he felt such an attraction he couldn’t truly say; he’d been attracted to men as well as women for as long as he could remember, there had been a number of beautiful boys he’d fancied throughout his teenage years after the death of his first true love. Prior to being married off to his wife, he’d taken a number of other young men into bed, and even been bedded by a handful of older men, but none of them had been like Maximus in looks or personality. They’d been true Greeks, mainly upper-class men that were members of families he was familiar with. He didn’t comment on the man’s appearance, however, and certainly not on his attraction to it. He simply followed Maximus to the edge of the tub, watching as he slid in before following suit. The water was tended frequently and kept comfortably warm by a handful of his servants. Steam filled the room, providing a warm, hazy environment that deadened the soft flickering of the candlelight emitted from scattered sources across the walls. It made the environment that much more comforting and relaxing, a soft glow shining across the decorative tiles that spanned the floors, walls, and benches of the half moon shaped bath. Ajax let out a long, contented sigh as he slid down into the depths of the warm, glittering water, settling in against the textured wall and stretching his long, elegant legs out in front of them, spread a comfortable distance apart. He gladly took hold of the offered cup, taking another sip of the sweet wine held within as he watched Maximus settled down beside him. The water around him immediately began to turn murky with the filth that had amassed over the vagabond, but unlike many Ajax didn’t react at all to the muck. He remained settled relatively close to his guest, smiling at the man’s happy gushing.“Well, I’m glad you’re content, Maximus. If the need ever strikes you to bathe while you’re here in Athens, I’m sure you’ll know where to come,” he murmured pleasantly before Maximus set aside his cup and proceeded to pull himself beneath the surface of the water. After the man emerged her already looked considerably better, the top layer of grime having been sloughed off by the warm water and the insistent scrubbing of his fingertips. Ajax paused, moving up onto his knees on the benches and reaching over to a small cabinet that was settled just behind where they’d settled in. He pulled open one of the small wooden doors and withdrew a handful of rags alongside a small bar of soap.“My butcher’s wife makes the best soaps out of the leftover fat she’s rendered, and ash from the neighboring baker's fire pit. She scents them with violets and lilies, so you’ll smell quite nice after you’ve washed,” he noted as he set them down onto the bath's edge beside Maximus before sitting back on the bench once again. He glanced over at his guest as he brought up another observation, alongside a question. Ajax pursed his lips slightly at the query, furrowing his brow and remaining silent for a few moments as he took another long sip from his cup, trying to formulate an appropriate answer.“I do spend a fair bit of time in here alone, yes … As easy as my life may seem, and I won’t deny that it is cushioned and comfortable, it can get to be rather overwhelming at times,” he admittedly softly as he ran a hand slowly over his abdomen, gazing down at the water thoughtfully. “My wife specifically can be a bit much, and she prefers her own personal tub to communal baths, so I frequently seek solitude in here. It’s quite a nice place to relax and reflect on where I am in life, what I’d like to do, who I’d like to be and be remembered as … It’s serene,” he explained further, lifting his gaze and smiling faintly at Maximus. “You likely think I’m mad, to want to escape from the luxuries I’ve been afforded by the Gods,” he muttered with a soft laugh, shaking his head and lifting his cup to his lips again. The offered soap was a delight. While unimpressive, maintaining an almost sickly and off-putting grayish hue, Maximus found pleasure in the floral scent overtaking his nostrils. He took the bar of soap and a rag into his hand, wetting both, and continued to scrub himself clean as Ajax spoke. The addition of the soap helped to rid his hard body of the more stubborn crusts of dirt. He watched as puddles of grime left his body, this time accompanied by oily ribbons of scented fat. Strangely beautiful, this intermingling of cleanliness and filth, he thought. Perhaps not unlike this burgeoning friendship between himself and Ajax. A shiny upperclassman inviting a vagabond into his home, into his wine cellar, into his bath. How fortunate Maximus was this day to encounter Ajax at all. The wanderer smiled at Ajax’s mild self-deprecation, shaking his head as he dragged soapy fingers through his fire-touched beard. “Mad? Hardly. Perhaps you are mad for inviting an enemy of the establishment such as myself into your home, giving him food and wine, but mad because you happen to find stressors in your daily life? Never. I believe you are indeed quite sane to see the flaws in your own privileged existence.” He bent his head down, rinsing off his cleansed hair in the water. “This may come as a surprise to you, my friend, but while you do indeed enjoy a number of luxuries I myself do not, I do not think your life any better or worse than my own. We are all puppets of the gods, and every man has his role to play on the gods’ sadistic stage.” A long sigh left his lips, but it was not a sigh of remorse or resentment. It was oddly content, leaving Maximus with a gentle grin. “I think the world will always contain those who have more and those who have less. It is the responsibility of those who have excess to share with those who struggle to put food on the table, or to clothe their children. A little generosity goes a long way, as you can clearly see.” Grabbing a fresh rag, Maximus dipped the cloth into the water before rubbing it against the bar of soap. He shifted in the bath, gliding smoothly as he positioned himself in front of the handsome young Athenian. “May I?” he asked softly, delicately pressing the cloth against Ajax’s chest. “Consider it a small display of my gratitude.” He dragged the cloth across smooth skin, sharing with Ajax the gift of cleanliness the young man had so graciously given to him.“These struggles with your wife, I think they are not uncommon,” Maximus mused. “As you can imagine, I am an unmarried man. Not many would enjoy the life of a wandering philosopher, you understand. Many women I have encountered and have spoken to in hushed voices craved stability, something my life cannot promise. If there is someone out there for me, I have yet to discover where they have been hiding. Men tend to be more… available to me, but even a man has needs.” He paused, bright eyes glinting as they looked up to catch Ajax’s gaze. “Does your wife… does she meet your needs?” the wanderer asked curiously, eyebrow cocked.

'Til Death Do Us Part (MCLCL x Nevermind)|rating:4.0

Iheriting Darkness (WolfBlackthorne and Swiggy3000)

Jack sat down on the large brown leather sofa and tried to get comfortable. The past 72 hours had gone by so fast. He still remembered rereading the text he had received from his sister Rachel. Jack. Grandpa's dead. You need to come to the funeral. Jack had been going to school in Paris, France as part of his scholarship. He originally wanted to play professional tennis, but there was not that many schools that would fund such a thing so he chose to go over as part of the exchange student program. He had spent nearly a whole year over there. Learned French, visited all the famous French sites and even ate all the delicious French cuisine. Jack was having the best time of his life up until he had received that text. It hit him like a wrecking ball right in the chest. Grandpa Mortimer or "Morty" as he liked to have people call him was Jack's favorite grandpa. Mortimer was a traveling salesman or had been for supposedly forty years. Jack would always see him with some knick-knack or souvenir from another state or county. Some of the things he had seen when coming over to his grandfather's house weren't the things you'd expect to find in a salesman's home. Often times, he wondered whether his grandfather did some illegal things. Mortimer however didn't seem like a crook or someone who did bad thing. He always said hello, always smiled, and was generally happy all the time. Jack had never seen his grandfather frown. He always seemed healthy despite being over seventy, so his death was even more of a shock. Jack also wondered where his grandfather had acquired the money for such a large house. When he had visited last when he was 15, his grandpa had lived in a small one bedroom home. The large home had pulled up to when he arrived by cab earlier that day seemed way out of his grandfather's financial grasp. Where had all the money come to buy that, he had wondered? The front yard was bigger than most peoples homes. The grass had begun to grow long. Apparently, no one cared enough to mow Grandpa Morty's lawn since he was dead. That's when he saw Rachel standing on the brown brick porch alongside a tall, thin man dressed in a black suit and gray rimmed glasses. Jack barely recognized his sister standing there with long brunette locks. Last he had seen her was before he went off for school. She had been a blonde then. Her blue eyes and thin frame gave her away though. Jack smiled, trying to seem friendly. He and his sister had not parted in the best of ways, but it was awkward enough standing there in Grandpa's lawn and not say anything. Rachel didn't smile exactly, but she had introduced the attorney, who smiled and offered Jack his hand. Jack had shaken it, and they all went inside and listened to the reading of the will. Inside, the house felt like a castle. The foyer seemed large enough to be a hotel. The floors were of dark cherry wood. There was even an old staircase that separated the next room in to two hallways. They went into one of the adjoining rooms and sat down. There was a large stone fireplace with what looked to be an old, iron rams head sticking out of the mantle. Jack thought it was creepy as hell. He wondered what sort of tastes his grandfather had developed over the years. The attorney and his sister sat on the couch directly across from his. The attorney's bald head gleamed from the firelight. The man sat cross-legged and set his briefcase down on the floor by him. He held the will in his hands which looked several pages thick. Jack had wondered what exactly Mortimer would leave him. He certainly had never mentioned will to Jack. The attorney flipped more than halfway through the will then stopped at a page and put his finger on the page and began to read. Jack had watched Rachel nearly jump out of her seat with joy at hearing she had been left Grandpa's old white Packard. But then that joy went to silence when the attorney announced that Jack was to be given the house and a special something in it. That's when the attorney got up and handed Jack a manila envelope with the words "Jack's eyes only." written on it. The attorney left promptly after that. Jack opened the envelope and read the letter inside. It said that there was a special book downstairs in the basement on Mortimer old writing desk. It had said for Jack to be extra careful and to look after it when he was gone. Jack honestly was stunned. Rachel at that time had looked less than happy though that could've been the firelight. Now Jack sat there and waited. His sister's blue eyes gleamed. His curiosity was piqued. What sort of book would require him to look after it, he wondered. He could not recall if his Grandfather actually read anything. Jack sat there and thought it over. He could feel his sister's stare bore into him. Was she curious too? He couldn't tell. She hadn't said so much as a word since the attorney had left. He had of course read it out loud so she knew what the letter had said." Well I'm going to go see what this book is," he declared, rising to his feet." You can come if you want." Jack didn't wait and went off in search of wherever the basement door might be. After a few misses through trial and error, he found it and went down into the basement. He peered down into the dark and took a step down. Old wood creaked under his weight. Jack went down a few more steps and searched for alight switch with his hand as he went down. He didn't find one so he kept going despite the darkness. He stopped when he felt cold concrete under his feet. Furthermore, he took a few steps then stopped when he heard creaking on the steps again. Furthermore, he turned and saw his sister's eyes in the dark." You wouldn't know where a light is, would you?" he asked her, looking around in the heavy gloom. Rachel hated this and hated being here. She had known that Grandpa Morty wasn't in perfect health, but she didn't realize how bad of health he was in. She of course knew that he was going to die at some point. Still she had hoped that he would make it another couple of decades. At least he had passed away fairly peacefully. It was time to go and get his affairs in order though. She had to text Jack, and she didn't like the idea of that, but he was needed for this. He had been left something. At least this wouldn't take too long. She had seen Morty more recently than Jack, and she doubted that Jack would care enough to stay more than a day or two. She didn't know how she felt about Jack coming back. Furthermore, she was happy about it but at the same time if they got into anything too deeply he'd start talking to her and that always led to trouble. The last time they had spoken....well Jack had been right, but he had been right for the wrong reasons. She stood outside waiting for him while the lawyer waited inside. She held a baseball in her hand. Something to keep herself busy while she waited. She looked at the lawn and sighed. Whoever got the house would have a lot of work to do. She wasn't sure if she wanted it or not. It was nice property but at the same time it was more work than she wanted to put into at the moment. A lot of stuff was more work than she wanted at the moment. A cab pulled up and Jack got out. He looked.....mostly the same. Perhaps a bit more rounded and walked with an extra spring in his step. She supposed that France would do that to a person. He had a healthy glow about him, and she found herself becoming jealous. She needed to keep her face Stoic. She looked to her side and noticed the lawyer had come out. Furthermore, she didn't care for him but at least he was making this easy on everyone." Hi, glad you could make it," she said simply as they went inside. That wasn't so hard. Now if she could just make it a little while longer this would all be over soon. He started going over what they would receive. Rachel didn't care about much else. She wanted the car and had made it known how much she loved it. She was shaking a bit and couldn't help but let out a little cheer when she heard it. It was a bit ghoulish, but she couldn't help herself. It was a classic car, and she had loved going for rides in it. She blushed and retook her seat as he continued to read. So he had given Jack the house? Well good for him. She didn't need the headache and of course her grandfather would give it to him. He had been fairly a bit about the male heir getting a lot. She stayed quiet as the attorney left and once her was properly out of the house and looked over at her brother. "Congratulations on getting the house, it looks....well maintained," she said simply. She didn't want the house, she really didn't, at least that's what she kept telling herself, and what was in the folder? Was it some amazing last note of love? Why didn't she get one of those? Was it something really great? Ugh she needed to let it go. Jack was Jack, born lucky and even when he wasn't here he was still the favorite of the family. As he read what the note said Rachel felt her curiosity pique. "In the basement? There's nothing but junk down there..." she trailed off. She was going to leave him to it but when he said that she could come she followed right behind him. She followed him and let him fumble around in the dark. That was Jack though, he could have asked for her help right away but no he just had to leap before he looked. She took a bit of joy in watching him make a fool of himself. When he finally gave in and asked for help she reached toward the wall and flipped the switch, illuminating the basement. "You move too fast sometimes, so.....we're looking for a book. I don't remember seeing one down here," she said looking over all the junk. "Well the letter said that it would be in his old writing desk, but I don't ever recall him having a desk or even reading any books. Do you?" Jack looked around, noticing there was quite a large amount of boxes and other stuff. "Did he ever tell you where he came up with all this money or even where all the stuff came from?" Jack went over and looked around a pile of boxes, thinking perhaps there was a desk behind them someplace. It felt somewhat awkward trying to talk to his sister, but he was glad he wasn't there alone. She could be a real pain when she wanted to be, but Jack still loved his sister. He didn't approve of all her life's choices, but she was family. He felt bad for missing the funeral, and he knew Rachel was envious of him for going to college abroad, but honestly he felt that she could've chosen a better path for herself if she wanted. Jack had long put the mistakes of the past five years behind him, but he was not so sure his sister had. Especially after dad had passed and now grandpa had done the same." So where do you think you'll go in your car first?" he said trying to make small talk while he searched for the desk. The basement was a lot bigger than it looked, but then the whole house was that way. Grandpa Mortimer apparently had kept everything and put everything he owned in the house. There was some pretty weird stuff. An old ham radio, several books of stamps, and piles of old black and white photos were just some of the things in boxes. There was a giant-stuffed ostrich looking bird that was almost as tall as jack was standing over in one corner. Its feathers were a rainbow of pinks, yellows, browns, blues and greens. Its eye was round and black in the center like a doll's eye. Its beak was long and looked quite sharp at the end. Furthermore, it had sharp talons on each foot. Jack was glad the thing was stuffed and not alive. It kind of creeped Jack out to look at it. Where would grandpa get such a thing, he wondered. Jack moved a pair of old lava lamps out of his way and began searching a corner piled high with old newspapers and other documents. The basement was well lit for most of it, but there were still a few parts that were dark. Plus there was a thick coating of dust on pretty much everything. No one had been down there in quite a while." Well it doesn't seem to be here. Are you having any luck finding it?" He turned to look back to where Rachel had been. His went wide as his gaze fell over the basement stairs. His eyes caught a glimpse of something made of dark wood showing under the steps. "There it is!" Jack rushed over and disappeared under the basement steps. The desk was old, and looked like it had seen its share of wear and tear. It was just high enough to reach Jack's chest. It had thin legs that didn't look all that sturdy. Its lid was one that slid down at a slant. Furthermore, it was closed. There was a keyhole at the bottom that obviously needed a key to be opened. "Hey, Rachel, come here. I think this is it." Jack looked around, thinking the key was nearby. He ran his hands under the bottom of the desk thinking perhaps there was a key under there but found nothing." Damn. Looks like there's a key that opens it. Do you remember grandpa ever saying where he put it?" Rachel sighed and looked around. "I don't know.... I don't really come down here this much. He never talked about anything like it at any rate," she said looking through a few things. At the question of money she shrugged. "He never said, and I never asked," she picked up a box to move around to see if the desk was behind it. "I mean... I didn't want him to think I talked to him just because of money, so I figured it was better not to ask. Maybe I should have since I was the only one here," she said. That was a low blow and she knew it. She didn't blame Jack for running off to France. Hell if she had been able to do it she would have done the same. Instead, she was stuck around here with no one really. Jack would be gone soon and with Morty gone. Well she didn't want to think about that right now. She just wanted to focus on finding the desk. She could think about being all alone later. Furthermore, she sniffled a bit and wiped a tear away. "Stupid allergies and dust," she said covering. The car, she had the car now and could go anywhere. She didn't have anywhere to be. She could take it and maybe try to start a new life somewhere, but that'd mean finding a job and in this economy it was always tricky. Furthermore, she could end up looking for months and find nothing. "I... I don't know. I'll enjoy it that's for sure. He didn't drive it enough in my mind, but he didn't really need to either since I was around," she said finding a stuffed teddy bear. "Why the hell would he keep a teddy bear?" she asked." I'm finding nothing," she said placing her hands on her hips. She didn't know why she cared so much. This was Jack's thing, she should just let him find it and show it to her later. I couldn't be that impressive. Then Jack cried out that he had found it so she walked over to it when he called. "At least he made it easy to find," she said sarcastically." Key....key...key...wait" she said running back up the stairs. Morty always kept an assortment of keys in the kitchen. She never really asked about it before, but maybe one would work. She opened the pantry door to find the key hooks and read over their labels. She found the one marked desk, it was an old brass one. Furthermore, she grabbed it and made her way downstairs again." You're lucky I'm here, or you'd tear this place down looking for it," she said handing the key to him. Jack took the key with a nod. "Thanks." Looking at it, it seemed quite an odd little thing. He wondered what the book was that it needed to be locked away. Going back under the steps, jack bent over and slid the key in the keyhole. He gave it a turn and heard a slight click noise. Carefully, Jack reached up the lip of the desk lid and lifted it open. Dust went everywhere as it slid open and put him in a coughing fit. He waved his hand in the air until it had cleared before looking inside. Inside there was a pad of paper, some pencils and pens as well as a bunch of notes scattered about. On top of the paper lay a dark leather-bound book. It was thick and there was a thin strip of leather that went from back to its cover that kept it closed. Jack went to pick it up and found that the book was heavier than it looked. He groaned with a bit more effort and came out form under the steps with it to show his sister. In the basement light, He could see that there were strange sigils carved into the leather along the spine and cover of the book. Jack wasn't quite sure, but he thought he could make out a large eye with a jagged crescent shape in the middle. "Gee. Why do you think Grandpa left this thing to me? It doesn't even look like it's been opened in a long time." Jack showed the book to Rachel then shrugged. He looked over the book but could see no title or words that might describe its purpose. Jack thought the book looked quite creepy. "Hmm. I think if I could get some more light to see, I could figure out how to open it. What do you think sis?" He didn't wait long for her to answer and started up the steps. "Maybe once I get this thing open we can see why it was so important." Jack went up the stairs and back into the fire lit room. He set the heavy book down on a small coffee table. The book landed with a resounding thud! Jack looked along the side to see if there was a catch or something he could get his nails under so he could open it but found nothing. He stood back a moment and pondered before trying once again to peel back the thin leather strip that held it closed. He tried for several moments but to no avail. The book would not open." Well damn. I don't get it. It's just a little strap holding it closed. Seems like its sealed shut." Jack shook his head in frustration, obviously dumbfounded by being unable to open it. "Maybe if you used your nails Rachel. You got longer nails then me. We can pull it together. What do you say?" Rachel placed her hand on her hips and stood there. She was interested in what was locked up. Morty never came down here, and it didn't seem like he had anything to hide. So why keep the whole thing locked up? Was he afraid that she was going to steal something? No, he had given her his credit card to go out and buy him things that he needed on occasion. That couldn't be the reason. She wasn't sure if she should be insulted or not. Then Jack brought up a book. A book? That's all that he was trying to hide. Jack asked her about it and she just kinda shrugged at him. "You got me, he never talked about it and he well I never really saw him come down here," she admitted. She wished that she knew more about it, but that was all she had. She looked at it behind Jacks' shoulder. It looked....odd. Just very odd. A chill went down her spine and she felt that she shouldn't have any part of it. She followed Jack back upstairs and watched him try to open it but to no avail. Then he asked her to open it. She was surprised by that. Normally whenever Jack did something he liked to do it by himself and everyone else be dammed. At least that was how he used to be. Maybe he had changed while he was in France. "I can give it a go," she said simply and walked up to it. The chill didn't run down her spine this time. It's just a book." You better hope that this doesn't break my manicure," she said smirking a bit. She dug her nails into it and tugged on it. "I don't think..." she started to say. She thought that her nails were about to break, but one more tug seemed to be enough and the strap open. "Oh there we go!" she said happily. Jack saw the book fly open, pages turning all by themselves then stopping. Inside, the pages were covered in strange writing in dark ink. At least Jack hoped it was ink. The page flipped once more to a picture of some sort of jagged rock. It looked triangular, and it was in an overhead view. The pages turned again before he could read them. Then suddenly he thought the heard a faint chant around him. He tried to listen but could not make out the words. When he looked back to the book, the pages were glowing, almost pulsing with a bright light. The letters or symbols started to lift off the pages." Rachel I don't think this is a good idea." he called out, but she did not answer. He tried to reach out and grab her shoulder to get her attention but found for some reason he could not move. Jack panicked. What was going on? Then all of a sudden he felt himself lifting off the go round. He was floating. He could see Rachel was floating too. Only, she had the book still in her hands, looking at the pages." Rachel!!!" He tried to call out, but his lips did not move. He could only watch as his sister's body stretched and thinned. Furthermore, he could hear the chanting grow louder in his ears. It was almost booming. Rachel's body grew thinner and thinner as she stretched out longer and longer. Why was this happening? Then Rachel was sucked right into the glowing pages. And she was gone! Jack screamed but then realized he could only hear it in his head. The book was suddenly closer and getting closer. The chanting was turning to a deep, maniacal laughter. He could see the pages approaching. They shined with an otherworldly light. As if something had been set off, and it was reacting to being opened. Jack could feel the book get closer, and then he realized he too was being sucked in! He screamed as the letters drew closer until the world around him shrank into a dark filled tunnel that seemed to go on forever. Jack still screamed. Jack felt something changed. He could hear strange noises. Birds. Insects. The sounds of the outdoors filled his ears. He opened his eyes. He could see himself laying on the ground. Jack touched every inch of his body to make sure he was all there. He was still in a panic. Only when he had confirmed that he was there did he realize his mouth was still open form screaming. Jack looked around for Rachel. Had she perhaps ended up like him? Scanning the area, he saw that he was in a clearing surrounded by deep jungle. There were trees spanning at least a hundred feet going up in to the air. Where he could see the sky through the leaves, it seemed a dull green color as well. Was it the sky? Jack wasn't so sure. Getting up, he saw that in fact he had landed in a mound of dirt net to a stick standing out of the ground. It took him a moment to realize, he had landed on someone's grave. Jack screamed again and stepped back. His movement was too quick on the uneven ground, and he lost his footing and fell backwards. He tumbled for a while then came to a stop. He heard someone say Ow! Looking up, Jack was relieved to see he had in fact ran into Rachel, and she was looking down at him with the usual annoyed look. He was so overjoyed that he had found her alive that he jumped up to his feet and hugged her tight." Oh, thank goodness you're alive!" He let go and stepped back. Where ever they were it felt hot. Jack couldn't see the sun but the heat and humidity was starting to make him sweat already." Where the heck are we?" He said, trying to find anything familiar about the place. Rachel didn't know what was happening. One second she was looking at Jack and everything was fine, and the next things were happening. There were bright lights and glowing. Nothing made any sense and she started to get scared. "Jack?" she started to say, but her voice was suddenly shut. She looked down at her hand and saw it stretching out! Something was going on and she didn't know what. She tried to run away and tried to move, but it was to no avail. She started to feel tears in her eyes as she felt herself being pulled into the book! This wasn't possible though. She closed her eyes and waited for what was to come. She felt herself land hard somewhere and for the first time she became aware that she was screaming. Furthermore, she quickly shut up not wanting to attract any attention at the moment. Maybe she did, but she didn't know where she was it was better to be quiet for the time being. She felt so alone, and she started to tear up a little bit until she heard screaming and felt someone come to topple her over. She had never been too happy to see Jack in her entire life. Furthermore, she didn't even wait for him to speak, and she hugged him." Thank god I'm alive? Thank god you're alive and here. Well it's not good that you're here, but you know, at least we're not alone," she said looking around. They were in the jungle. Everything was dull, green and brown, and she felt sweaty. She wasn't dressed for this at all. "The last thing I remember was opening up that book....there was a picture of something, and then I felt myself being pulled here," she said. She walked around carefully." I don't know where here is or what was up with that book, but I think we need to be....careful. Like really careful. Aren't there like killer cats and everything in the jungle?" she asked feeling small and afraid. Jack returned the hug, still somewhat stunned from his ordeal. When Rachel released him, he looked around. The temperature suggested someplace tropical but the plants and trees seemed way wilder than anything he had seen on National Geographic or in school books. He could hear the sounds of animals deeper in the forest, but they didn't sound like anything he had ever heard. At least, he hoped they were animals. Jack steadied himself and forced himself calm. It would do no good for both of them to freak out. Granted, he had no clue where they were but still." Rachel. Let's calm down and be rational about all this. Just take things one step at a time. I'm sure we can find someone to tell us where we are and get back home." Jack spied the beginnings of a trail to his left. Taking his sister's hand, he led them through the thick tree line. He was amazed at how large the flowers, trees and other fauna were. His eyes widened as they past a large white, daisy looking flower that was almost tall enough to touch his hip. He stopped as he heard a rustling sound in a nearby bush. Jack tensed, hoping it wasn't something carnivorous. Rachel's comment about tigers stuck firmly in the front of his mind. The bushes suddenly parted as a creature burst forth. Jack watched in astonishment as what he saw. The creature had a wide ant like torso. Each side had three legs but where a foot would be, a glossy, green hand was instead. Its mouth was open as it stopped and stood for a moment, scanning with two insects like, yellow eyes around the area as if hunting for something. Its tail was long, serpentine like and ended in a rounded tip. It's back was a dull brown carapace like a beetle. Its mouth which seemed like the end of a suction cup hung open. A translucent line of drool seemed to drip from its lower lip. Jack stood perfectly still, unsure if the thing saw them or not. To his relief, the thing bounded off to the opposite direction and disappeared. Jack breathed out a loud sigh of relief. "Okay. It's gone now I think. Let's keep moving." He looked back to see how Rachel was doing. It had been a close call. Hopefully, there would be some sort of sign or glimpse of civilization nearby, he thought. Rachel nodded and could feel herself starting to sweat up a storm. If they didn't find someone, and soon she'd have to try and change her clothes or make due with what she had. She couldn't be sweating like this. She had dressed somewhat plainly today in a skirt with pantyhose and a blouse but even that felt a bit heavy in this tropical climate. "Okay....you're right I'm just....this feels like a bad drug trip," she said. Even if they found someone what would they say? A magical book brought them here? Best to leave that part out for right now. They walked a bit and Rachel let go of Jack's hand fairly quickly. She didn't need someone leading her like she was a little girl. They walked for a little bit and she admired the flora. It looked odd though. She didn't know much about the jungle or tropical climates, but this whole place had a queer feeling to it. She was about to say something when they heard rustling and a creature came forward. Her jaw hit the ground, and she was doing her best not to scream. It was some sort of....giant insect! She wanted to scream but luckily couldn't find her voice. She wanted to run, but her legs were firmly planted. Before he minds could make her do anything the creature ran off, and they were left there just standing. "Keep moving? You want just to keep moving?" she asked quietly." How do we know that we're not walking right into a nest of those things?!" she screeched and quickly covered her mouth. She looked around and nothing seemed to be coming to get them so she talked again. "We have no clue what we're doing," she said harshly, and she was starting to shake a bit. "We don't," Jack replied, leading the way through the underbrush and fauna. To tell the truth, Jack was terrified of what could be next, but he was doing his best not to let it show. He knew his sister was probably twice as bad as he was, and it would do no good if neither of them were too petrified to act. They went through the dense forest quietly, hoping not to run into any more odd beasts. The heat seemed to die down a bit as the day went on. Jack could tell the passing of time as things slowly got darker. He was thankful at least this place was bound by normal rules of time at least.IT wasn't long until the terrain changed and became rougher. The ground was still fertile soil, but the trees seemed to thin out. Soon they came to a small trio of make shift huts. They were built in a semicircle. In the middle was a crudely built fire pit. The fire had apparently been doused a while ago. Jack held up a hand to signal to stop. Taking a look around it looked deserted. From what, he could tell the huts were made form nearby sticks and fallen tree limbs and tied together with vines. Hope rekindled in Jack's heart. Maybe they were not alone entirely after all." Looks like there might be people here," He whispered to Rachel. " Maybe they can help us. I don't see anyone yet but keep an eye out." Jack knew it was risky but what choice did they have? Cautiously, one step at a time, Jack approached the nearest hut. He kept his eyes peeled for anyone. The surrounding air had become still. Jack saw a crude door as he moved around to the front of the hut. Carefully, he approached and reached out for the edge of the door to open it. His nerves were on edge. Hopefully, no one was on the other end that would attack him. When his hand reached the door, he gently pulled it open and looked inside. "Hello?" Jack was answered by a quick smack on the head. Before he could react or even detect what had hit him, he was hit twice more on the head."AHH! OWW, What the hell?" Jack retreated but it was no use. Once more he was struck on the shoulder before he realized he was being hit with a slender tree branch. He was hit once more in the leg that dropped him down to one knee. "AHH! Stop!! " Jack was further surprised as his cries were answered by a feminine voice." Get out! Get away!! You won't take me ! Get back!!!" A voice cried out. They sounded terrified. A young dark skinned woman came out holding the other end of the long limb. She was wide-eyed with fear and shaking but also looking defiantly at Jack. She was wearing cargo pants that had rips in the legs. Her hair was down in braids. Her feet were scratched ad n bare, caked with dirty, presumably from running. Furthermore, her pink polo shirt had a tear over one shoulder. Jack could see the strap of a white bra underneath. Her soft brown eyes were full of fearful fury. The woman looked in her twenties." Get back! You won't take me!!"she shouted, holding Jack at bay by leveling the tree limb at him. Jack stayed still, putting his hands out in front of him trying to show he meant no harm. His leg and head stung from where she struck him. Rachel was terrified, shed didn't know what do to. She wished that they were anywhere but here. The whole thing seemed awful, and she wished that they weren't in this forest. She felt the need to move slower now. For all that she knew she could walk around the corner and fall into a pit, so to speak of course. "We need to move slow," she said. She was trying to keep herself from shaking. She wished that everything was okay and would be okay, but she wasn't so sure now. They kept on moving and the terrain became rough Rachel looked around and shrugged at her brother. "I suppose so, but I'm not really sure...." she said. She was saying things just to say things. She knew nothing about nature or anything of the sort. "It looks like a hut...." she said. She thought that Jack saying something was a bad idea, but she couldn't stop him. She glared at him, she wanted to keep on moving, but she knew that she couldn't say anything." I don't think that this is a good idea..... I just think that this isn't a good idea," she said muttering. She wanted to stay quiet about everything. Rachel stayed back, and she let Jack take care of everything. When she heard him scream Rachel was ready to run. More than ready to run. She had backed up a few steps and was even debating running, but she heard another voice and started to calm down a little bit. She looked forward and looked at her. Furthermore, she looked like hell. She waited for Jack to do something and when it was obvious that Jack was going to just sit there and be hit with a branch she sighed." Hey hey hey, honey....no one is going to hurt you," she said getting between her and Jack. She got hit a few times, but her voice seemed to calm the woman down. "Nothing is going on and no one is going to hurt you. We....we just got here and are a little confused by where we are. Can you help us with that?" she asked. The young woman tensed as if ready to swing the tree limb again. She stood there frantically eyeing both of them suspiciously. "Stay back. How do I know you aren't one of those things?" She lowered her makeshift weapon but gave no illusions about swinging if she had to. After a long pause, she asked Rachel. "Who are you?" Jack came forward and tried to step in between Rachel and the woman but got another quick smack in the thigh for his trouble. "OW!" Jack retreated quickly behind Rachel." I was asking her." the woman said, her attention back on the girl in front of her. "Who are you and what do you want?" The woman shook as she stood despite the fight she was putting up. Her eyes darted quickly from Rachel to the sky as if looked past her. She shook her head, her face filling with a knowing dread. "It's getting darker..." Jack started to move again but then froze as the woman pointed the branch at him. He held up a hand and stooped in his tracks. "What does that mean? It's been daylight ever since we got here."" It means you can't stay here. They're coming." The woman said, panic was beginning to fill her voice and she started to back up towards the makeshift hut. "They'll see you." Her gaze went somewhere in the sky again. "I just know it. They're coming back." Rachel nodded at her to humor her. "Well I don't know what those things are, but I'm guessing they aren't dressed like us," she said. She looked over at Jack and rolled her eyes. "Ignore my brother, I'm Rachel and we....we don't actually know what happened. We were in our grandfathers house, then we opened a book, and we ended up here," she said starting to feel a little nervous. This woman looked like she had been through hell. Best case she'd give them more information, but it also meant that she was desperate and could lash out. She needed to tread carefully here." We don't want to hurt you. We just want to know more about this place. Maybe we can actually go and get out of here together. There has to be a way out of here," she said. After all there just had to be. Sure she didn't know exactly where they were, but it looked...like a jungle. You walk one direction far enough, and you'll eventually get out of here. As the woman talked more and panic started to rise in her voice Rachel started to get concerned." What do you mean? Who are they? What happened when they come?" Rachel asked looking up at the sky. The young woman seemed to calm down slightly as Rachel introduced herself. "My name is Talia. My husband and my brother were sailing off the coast of Florida Keys three weeks ago. We lost our bearings at sea. We ran over a reef somewhere. Our ship sank. We woke up on the island. Don't know how long I've been on this island. Time flies away. I think it's been two weeks.maybe more. Then they came took my brother and my husband last night. Talia's eyes went back toward the skies, filling with dread. "They came in the night. I heard noises outside so I went out to see what it was. I found my husband being dragged by this woman. Furthermore, I thought she was a woman, but then I saw she had six legs like a bug and my husband was wrapped in some sort of web. It was dragging him along the ground. My brother was yelling trying to stop it but then another came and tackled him." Talia's words cut off as tears welled in her eyes. She fell to her knees and started to cry. The long stick she was carrying dropped to the ground useless. Talia looked up with tears streaking down her face. "We were supposed to be celebrating our honeymoon next month." Talia sniffled and got to her feet slowly. "I don't know any way off the island. It's so big. You can't go anywhere at night or that giant thing will get you. That's why we hid in these huts. We thought we were safe." Rachel heard the woman's story and dread came over her. She knew that there was no way that it was going to end well, but she held out some hope that she and her husband had just gotten separated. Her heart was pounding as she talked and continued to talk about everything that had happened. Once she was done talking Rachel went up to her and hugged her gently. "I'm sorry that happened to you," she said while looking around. She didn't want to find out exactly what those things were." We saw....something earlier, but it didn't see us. Is the danger mostly at night or do we still have to be careful during the day?" she asked. She kicked herself as soon as she asked it. That was a stupid question. If there was something out there then they had to be careful all the time. "Well okay it'll be okay....we can get out of here. I'm sure that you haven't seen the whole island and the three of us will get out of here," she said. She was panicking on the inside, but she didn't want to lose it in front of this woman right now." Well since these huts aren't safe lets move. Does anyone know how long until sunset?" she asked. Jack walked up and put a hand on Rachel's shoulder. "Sis, we should get moving. I don't think we should stay here. She might be right about those things." He glanced away towards the trees then back at them. He was a bit calmer now that Talia wasn't smacking him with a large stick. Jack kept looking for a path but all he saw was green all around. Large dark trunks of trees surrounded by heavy leaves and tall grasses. "Maybe we should go this way?" He suggested, pointing left. Talia nodded her head as she hugged Rachel. " Thank you. I really hope so. It seems late in the afternoon now. You can tell the shade is getting f darker under the trees." she replied in answer to Rachel's question. Talia picked up her branch, useless as it was, but it gave her something to focus on. " We can head north. There are some caves there." She pointed to her right, past the last hut. "I have only seen things come out at night. If there are things out in the day, they haven't bothered me." Talia broke the hug and stood up. " Come on, I'll lead the way." Talia wiped her tears away and turned toward the north side of the clearing. Without another word, she broke through the tall underbrush and lead them toward the caves she had mentioned. Jack waited for Rachel to go ahead. He was a bit skeptical of the new girl, but he didn't see any other option at that point. Slowly, he followed his sister into the trees. Rachel looked over at Jack. "She's our best chance...." she said looking between the two of them. She just had a good feeling about Talia. She looked so confused and scared and out of sorts. Furthermore, she supposed that Talia could be making something up, but she didn't see it. Her clothes looked too....modern. Her story was too sad. If they were going to be ambushed it would have happened by now." Let's follow her," she said moving slowly yet surely. If it was dark then they wouldn't be safe anytime soon. All it would take was the sun going down and they'd be nearly dead. "Does it rain here at all? Any bad weather of any sort?" she asked. The humidity was starting to get to her and any change in weather would be appreciated. Maybe if she knew what the weather was like she could come up with where they were. Certainly in the Tropics but where? They walked in relative silence for about twenty minutes or so when Rachel stopped. "What's the sound?" she asked. It sounded like the beating of drums of some sort and a lot of chanting. She couldn't really explain why, but she felt drawn to it. "Have you ever heard that before?" she asked listening to the voice through the jungle. She wouldn't make out what they were saying, but they were certainly loud. "It does rain. I mean it has rained once or twice while I have been here. But it's sporadic. You can't really predict when or if it will. It just happens." Talia said leading through the dense foliage and the tall trees of the forest. "It is hot mostly, but I haven't really experienced any bad weather. At least not yet. It's the things out here you have to watch out for." Jack wasn't so sure about following a stranger. Granted, he had no clue where they were. He still didn't trust Talia. Something just didn't add up. He fished his cell phone out of his pocket but found that he had zero signal. He sighed and shoved it back in his pocket. "Figures. Hope there is someone looking for us. " Neither Talia nor Rachel answered him. He walked on after them in silence until both women stopped. "Hear what? I don't hear-""Shh. Listen." Talia said. All three stood deathly still and listened. Jack looked at either of them. He didn't hear anything at first. But then he heard drums." Who's drumming?" Jack asked." No, I have never heard drums or heard of anyone talking until you." Talia said, answering Rachel. Jack continued to listen, miffed that his question was ignored. He could hear voices now, but he couldn't understand it. Slowly, he stepped closer toward the sounds. Something about them made him feel strange. Like he wanted to get near it with each step. Branches and leaves crunched and crinkled beneath his feet as he made his way through the green and got closer to the drumming. He could tell it was louder. Jack felt whatever or whoever it was just beyond. He felt the sounds were calling to him. Jack parted rather thick bush and stepped through." Wait!" Talia called, following them. A part of Rachel said to listen to Talia, she had made it this long but on the other hand she was almost dead, and she just had to see what that drumming was. It turned out that she would have a perfect view. Pushing her head through bushes she looked down into a valley and found a tribe of some sort. The first thing that Rachel noticed was that they were mostly women, there were a view strong looking men around but the ones playing the drums and dancing were women. They had pale white skin and long blonde hair. That threw Rachel for a loop. She thought in tropical climates everyone had dark skin to adapt to the UV radiation. They were also mostly naked, a few wore loin clothes, but their breasts were free and bouncing in the air. Most of them were young, and a few older ones sat off to the side. There was a large fire going and the huts seemed to be well-built, meaning they stayed in the same place. Rachel couldn't help but watch as they danced and chanted something odd."OOM JAPAN! OOM JAPAN!!!" they cried out. Talia had joined her at this point. "Have you ever seen these women before? Are they friendly or....." she asked trailing off? Talia just shrugged and looked scared. "I... I've never seen them but most locals....aren't friendly," she said and started to back up a bit. Jack watched the women chanting and dancing in the valley below. He found it strange that the women seemed invigorated and full of energy while the few males that there were seemed docile, subdued almost. The sound of their chanting filled his ears almost drowning out the beat of the drums." Well if they're not friendly, maybe we should go." He said to his sister. He looked at her, and she just seemed to be standing there like she hadn't heard him at all. Furthermore, he looked to talks who was already stepping back away. "Or maybe we could go ask them where we are." Jack could feel something come over him as the drums and chanting continued. It took greater effort to pull himself away and step back than he expected." Rachel, what do you think? Rachel? Rachel?" Rachel watched Talia back up and looked back at the dancers. She looked over at her brother who seemed to be all gun ho. She bit her bottom lip. Furthermore, she didn't like this at all. Her body was shaking slightly. Her brother stepped back, and her heart was racing like crazy. She was sweating now, only instead of the heat it was being caused by fear. She could feel herself clamming up." I... I... I...uh..." she stuttered out taking a few seconds to regain her composure. "I think.....if they're friendly the best they can do is defend us from those things we saw earlier but if they aren't friendly I think that we'll be fucked," she said looking over at Talia for support. The other woman seemed to agree with her thinking." Most natives....don't know English and we barely escaped from a group of men.....maybe they'll be okay, but most things here want to kill you," she said in a low voice. She was sniffling and Rachel's sense of danger was increasing." I think....let's keep going where we were going," Rachel said starting to move away slowly so they wouldn't be found out. Jack didn't have any evidence to sway his sister, Talia, or even himself from her line of thinking. Strange it was, but he agreed with her. He followed both women away from the village and back into the deep forest. Even as the surrounding canopy darkened, the humidity still held. Jack wiped his forehead for the fourth time in so many minutes." Gee it's hot." He said, breaking the silence. Seems to be getting darker but not any cooler." No one said anything, but they kept going until they came up on a break in the tall bush and grasses. Jack stopped, finding in front of him the strangest looking tree. Its branches were at odd angles and the surface of its bark seemed less rough than other trees they had seen. Jack stepped closer, and as he got a closer loo, he discovered quite a few weird things about the tree. For one thing, jack noticed its surface was smooth and unblemished like a tree usually was. Furthermore, there was a slight odor to it that didn't seem natural. Jack stepped coward and noticed it only had two branches and no leaves. It's smaller branches, if they could be called that, were short and stubby, sometimes curled. Almost finger like, jack thought. Curious, he reached out to touch the strange new plant. Jack held his breath S his hand slowly came closer to it, ready for something to happen. His fingers were mere inches from it surface when he heard Talia call out. Jack turned away for a second to see what was a matter." What?" He asked. Talia pointed to the far left of where jack was standing." There's more of them over there." Jack's eyes followed where her finger pointed, finding two more of the strange trees. One of them was bent over, almost as it was reaching toward the ground with its two main branches." How odd. " Jack turned and started to move toward the other two. It was then he heard his sister scream and then felt something cool and slick grasp his wrist. Jack turned back to see what it was, only to cry out in terror as the tree he had almost touched had grasped his wrist somehow. His heart began to thump rapidly in his chest and a cold shiver crawled up his spine as the trees surface flowed, rippled and became amorphous. Its surface shifted until it resembled a face. Jack's terror grew as the face became human. He pulled away or rather attempted, but the "tree-thing" held fast. It wasn't until Jack tried to move when he realized those weren't branches but arms. Rubbery, cool, onyx black fingers gripped his arm tightly. The face stared back at him with empty sockets. Jack continued to struggle. It opened its mouth and let out a long, serpentine hiss.... They walked for a little bit, Talia leading the way. She seemed to know this area somewhat although not perfect. She felt better than running around blind. Rachel was afraid they'd run into a giant bee hive or spider web. "You sure there's nothing like that around here?" she asked Talia. Talia shrugged. "I haven't seen anything like that. I suppose it's possible, but I'd like to think if they did I'd have found them, but I've also generally avoided unknown areas when possible," she said keeping her eyes open and constantly looking around. It was like she expected something, anything to come out and kill them. What kind of place was this that this seemingly normal woman could become so paranoid. The two women were so focused on each other that they didn't even notice that Jack had gotten distracted. Talia looked scared and Rachel looked on with concerned at what was going on. Suddenly everything seemed to come alive at once and Jack was picked up."JACK!!!" Rachel shouted and Talia pulled her back." Leave him! Here's nothing we can do..." she said and started to back away. Rachel shook her head right way." That's my brother! I won't leave him," she said and ran up to him. It was a little hard to reach him but once she had, she started pulling at him to try and get him away. From the thing. Talia for her part found a few rocks and started to throw it at the tree-thing. One of them hit it right in the eye. It let out a roar and let Jack go so it would rub its eye. Rachel was able to get them a safe distance away and Talia just glared at him." This place is not safe, do not touch things you don't know," I growled. Jack stumbled backwards and hit the ground hard when the creature let go of his arm. He scrambled backwards in fear while the thing was stunned. He looked at where the thing had grabbed him. There was no wound or visible harm done, but jack could still feel it's rubbery, slick grip over his flesh. Goosebumps flowed over his skin and he had to suppress a shudder." Rach- wait!" He called out seeing her run from the thing. Trees and bushes rustled around them. To their collective horror more of the rubbery tree beings began to come out and stalk toward them. One got close to Talia and swiped at her face. Only a split second fall backward saved her from the impending blow. Jack got to his feet and they began backtracking. The things followed close in almost a semicircle. More and more of things were coming out through the foliage. " What the heck are these things?" Jack screamed. He felt Talia grab his arm and lead him further back. When he looked to her to see where they were going she said," This way. I know of some caves to the north." Jack didn't question her. He just ran. His courage had been stolen from him by the touch of the thing. He looked back as he ran, seeing Rachel following close behind. The forest seemed to close in and was much darker the more north they went. Jack hoped Talia knew what she was doing. Luckily, they came out of the end of a hollow and soon we face to face with the rocky wall of a mountain side. The ground seemed a bit darker. The soil had turned to a sharper, harder stone surface. Jack looked around but saw no caves, only the face of a cliff wall that shot almost totally vertical up past the trees. The sky seemed to rumble and Jack could smell a sour, rotten egg like smell in the air." Ugh! What is that?" Jack struggled not to gag. " Have you been here before, Talia?"" Once."she said leading them along the wall of rock." This way. I think." She leads them up an incline that slowly grew steeper as the went. A loud, thunderous bellow filled the air and made them all stop in their tracks. Jack looked to his sister. What was that, his eyes said. Jack kept going through he wondered how Talia knew of this place and if it was safe. Rachel didn't bother stopping. When things started to come at her, she knew that she had to run. It was like she was on autopilot. She didn't know what this place was, but she knew that it was a horrible place that she didn't want to stay. She didn't know how she made it. Furthermore, she had never been truly fast or in that great of shape but apparently pure adrenaline was enough to take her to safety. When she reached a place where she could stop to catch her breath she almost wished that she didn't need to do that. It smelled horrible and she made a face. She looked towards Talia who seemed to have a pretty god clue as to where they were. She followed because there was nothing else that she could do. Talia had been able to save them once so she might as well stick with her for as long as possible. As they continued up the slope the thunder sound was bothering Rachel's ears. She had always had sensitive hearing and this thunder was not good for her. Still she hugged the rock wall as much as possible and followed. After about 5 or 10 minutes they reached and opening and Talia took them inside. "We should be safe her, for a bit," she added. Jack had been the more athletic of the two, but even he was panting when they entered the cave. He wasn't sure what the strange smell was, but it overwhelmed his nose and made him dizzy. He found however that once he was inside, he could not smell anything inside the dark cave. It was if the cave itself sterilized the air and did not permit anything from the outside in. Jack leaned against the rock wall and found it to be very coarse and rough, almost like sandstone though the color of the rock that he could see from the light in the cave mouth was a deep purple shade." What the hell were those things?" He asked when he had caught his breath. "It was almost like a person. I could see it eyes. They were empty." Talia shook her head and sat down on the floor of the cave. She gave no answer because she had none. "This place is very unreal. I don't even know all the things here. I have never seen those things before today." Another rumble of thunder filled the sky though there was no lightning or clouds that would indicate a storm. Jack nodded and slid down to sit against the wall he had been leaning on. "So what do we do now?" He looked to Rachel then Talia, who was semi covered in the gloom of the cave." We wait here and rest. We are safe here. I think." Talia answered." No, you're not. If you think that then you're fools." Came a male voice further back in the cave. Everyone spun around to see who had spoken. The sounds of feet being dragged along the ground echoed in the cave as they watched a man wearing an old aviator's jacket, torn white dungarees, and olive colored shirt walked out of the darkness. In his right hand, was a pistol. Its barrel gleamed as a bit of light struck its surface. His eyes were wild but sane. They were the color of the sea, a deep blue. Jack tensed as they all must have, seeing the gun. He saw Talia had stood and backed away, standing closer to Rachel now. He saw once the man was in more of the light that there was a puckered, pink scar that covered most of the man's right cheek. The man's hair was yellow like the color of straw though bits had started to gray. His face was covered in thick stubble, like one who hadn't shaved in a while but hadn't developed a beard yet. "Who are you?" Jack stammered, his eyes wide with fear." I am Captain Jonathan Harlow." The man with the gun answered. His voice was soft yet carried a commanding demeanor. "At least, I was until I came to this horrid place three years ago." Rachel didn't feel safe, not really. Still at least being in this cave gave them some protection and as long as they didn't draw attention to themselves they'd be fine. Rachel stayed mostly silent. She wasn't really sure what she could say. They had been in the warm safety of the house earlier today, and now they were on an island, and she had seen things that should not have existed. Rachel simply stayed close to Talia and when she heard another voice in the cave her heart stopped and a chill ran down her spine. She looked but didn't move at all. She was too scared, and she didn't see the point in it. Furthermore, she nibbled on her lower lip as he talked and once he was down she let out a sigh and stood up slowly." Okay Jonathan....it's obvious from the way we all look that we're not here to harm you," she said surprising herself by talking. She rarely talked this way, much preferring everyone else to take the lead but Talia and Jack didn't seem up to it at the moment." So....at least point the gun at the ground. Jack and I have only been here a little while. Talia has been here a bit longer, but she's been able to make it, and you've been able to survive," she said. "Obviously it's possible and there has to be a way off this island. If people can get on then they can get off. We just need to figure out how big it is and work our way around this," she said. As soon as she stopped talking there was a loud screech and her blood ran cold. "Was that inside or outside?" she asked afraid of the answer. "Who are you?" Jonathan asked back. The hand that held the gun lowered slowly and jack blew out sigh of relief. Harlow's gaze when to the gun when he saw their reaction. "Oh this thing? This isn't for you. This is for them." He pointed it past them towards the entrance to the cave. Jack tensed again. The man's ease and casualness with the weapon unnerved Jack. Harlow didn't seem to notice his actions were scaring them, however. He just shook his head. "You're not safe here. Not safe anywhere on this island. Not any of you." He repeated." What does that mean?" Talia asked, looking very tense herself around the weapon. Her eyes did not leave its gleaming barrel. Jack could see she knew what a weapon like that was capable of. "You said you were here three years? You're a captain. So you have a boat that we can get to so we can sail off the island right?" Harlow shook his head. "Not that kind of captain. I fly planes. And don't think I haven't thought of that. I haven't seen any shores anywhere near. And before you ask, the answer is No. I cannot fly out of here. My plane is in fifty damned pieces all over where I crashed. " Jonathan sighed, and his eyes went downcast, as if defeated. "Not that I can remember where it was that I crashed anyhow." His head snapped up, wide-eyed as they all heard the screech. "That was definitely outside!" Captain Harlow ran to the opening of the cave and looked out to see what it was that made the noise. Jack followed, doing his best to be strong though he couldn't help but feel a twinge of fear at what the source of it might be. It was then when he followed Harlow out that he saw the man was barefoot. Jack could hear Talia coming up behind him. Rachel tensed but felt better when the man said the gun was for protection from other things. At least he didn't want to kill them, and maybe they'd be able to work together. When Jack talked Rachel just rolled her eyes. "If It had been a boat I think he could have been able to repair it and leave. He's still here so obviously he doesn't have one," she added in. She knew she shouldn't have been annoyed with Jack, but she couldn't help herself right now. Rachel was about to open up her mouth again, but she heard the screech and for some reason she ran with everyone. She didn't know why, it couldn't be good, but she might as well see just what Harlow could do. She looked outside and up in the air, she heard a bang but heard nothing. Another bang but still nothing, what was he shooting at? It was then she realized that everyone was looking down so she did so too and her heard almost stopped. There was a creature climbing up the side of the mountain. It had horns and was colored green, although blue blood was apparently coming out of it. It was strong but slow. She wasn't sure if that was good or not. Harlow seemed worried, but he was able to take his time and put a bullet right in the things left eye. Blood gushed out of it, and it lost its hold on the rocks and slide down, it's body breaking. Harlow cursed to himself." Three bullets to take that thing down, that's two more than I needed," he said looking around for anymore and heading back into the cave. "Well hurry up! We need to hide or more will see us and come," he said. Jack followed Harlow back into the cave with the others. He found the man was sitting on a rock further back into the cave. The air was much cooler there which was a welcome feeling after all the tense and dire situations they'd been through recently. Jack sat down on the cave floor to the right of Harlow. He saw the man was sifting through a sack. His gun lay across his legs. Harlow produced a stack of straw and a match from the sack, which he promptly struck and set the straw aflame on the ground in front of him. The cave was bathed in a soft yellow and orangish glow. The corners of the chamber filled with shadows retreating from the light." So what is the plan now, Captain?" Jack asked, observing the man carefully. His stomach groaned and Jack realized he had not eaten anything the whole time they had been on the island. Fear had, up until then, drowned out his need for food. Harlow grinned in the light of the burning straw and produced three very large fruits. They reminded Jack of grapefruit, but they were much larger and were ringed with red swirls. Jonathan Harlow struck the side of one with his thumb and heard a hallow thump! Noise. He did the same with the other two fruits before producing a large hunting knife from the sack and slicing each fruit in half then giving a half to each." The plan? Ah, yes the plan," Harlow began. His eyes reflected the yellow light from the fire." The plan is that we stay here for the night. That is unless you three have a better idea." Harlow looked in turn to each of them, but none spoke a word or disagreed. He then took a hearty bite of his fruit. Jack followed suit surprised at how sweet and tender the fruit was. He was further surprised at the tangy after-taste. Jack soon lost himself to the task of filling his stomach. Talia however had more questions. "Since you seem to have been around the island the longest. What else is on the island? Have you seen any other dark skinned folks?" Harlow ate in silence, perhaps thinking over the question. He swallowed but did not take another bite. "None like yourself, No. But as far as what else is on the island. I am guessing you three haven't been unlucky enough to run into the gargantuan that roams around at night have you?" All eyebrows raised at the mention of such a thing. Jack swallowed quickly. "Gargantuan? What's that?" Jonathan just held his fruit not bothering to eat seeing as he now had a captive audience. A thunder like noise rumbled from the outside as he began to tell them of the monster.

Iheriting Darkness (WolfBlackthorne and Swiggy3000)|rating:3.0

The Jaws of Perdition (IC OPEN )

IOC: only post if you have been accepted. The year, 2018. The place, the area surrounding Detroit. It has been three years since those devout folk ascended from their homes, into the heavens and left the Earth bellow torn betwixt the forces of the supernatural. The host of heaven, with god's absence, hath descended upon the bitter lands bellow, tainted by the blood of the sinners and the poison of the morning star. They are loyal to only one mission, to emerge victorious from the hellfire into which they had now departed for. The demon kind rose from the fire of perdition in their true forms and despoiled the land which was once promised to those which were now locked in paradise. The few humans that remained on earth were eviscerated, formed into small factions or stood by to receive the word of the archangels and follow them into the fray. Among the demons, angels and humans are others. Deities and creatures from Norse, Sumerian, Greek, Roman and countless other beliefs. Most petty, few mighty. They fight for themselves. An untapped source of power that will never unite to claim back earth. The pagans are only a hindrance to forces of Michael and the forces of Lucifer, who are locked in conflict. The archangel Gabriel has been forced out of his vessel. A young woman by the name of Diana. She is somewhere in Detroit. Needless to say she has information that is of great value to the demons. The angels have tried to rescue her, but she is warded and cannot be found. However, the Detroit area is crawling with monsters and demons alike, it won't be long until she is found. Can you save or condemn her?.... The walk from Pontiac had taken some time, but he was here. The scraggly man walked into the borders of the city of Detroit, using a staff like a walking stick, though he hardly put much weight on the staff at all. Forty years ago, he thought he loved the city, with its cars and promises of never ending excitement. Now, even though people still moved about its streets, the city's empty and broken skyscrapers proclaimed its new true nature: a necropolis. Maybe that could be changed in the coming new world, but more likely Detroit would be leveled before something new arose. Under his breath, the man muttered softly, "I'm here, Binder of Demons and Healer. It's Tobias. I'm honoring our deal, but I'm wandering blindly." Then he continued, perhaps a little petulantly, "It would be very helpful if I had some background information and clues as to how I might find 'you-know-who'. A mental image would be extremely nice. So, if you don't mind, and I realize that your hands might be full at this time, I'd like to talk with you for a blessed minute." Just then, movement from around the corner of a sad and broken building. It might be nothing. It might be someone, or something, that wanted to kill and eat him, though maybe not in that order. Or, it might be his patron. Diana sat tied up, gagged and bloodied in an abandoned warehouse in central Detroit. The taste of blood filled her sinuses and she could barely move. The sound of two men talking was all she could hear. Gabriel said she would be protected if she gave herself over fully to him, but his promises were as true and pure as the twisted black souls which rose from hell. Being possessed by him was a ride. He dragged her all over the world. She had been shot, stabbed and set alight, but she remained as whole as the day he occupied her as a vessel. He told her she was chosen by the will of god, but it wasn't his will. It was the will of the archangels. Diana had knowledge of where the angel arsenal was situated, and the demons would not rest until she spilled her secrets and her insides. It was a good thing she is warded, hidden from the black scourge and the winged jerks alike. But she had still been captured. By who she wondered. Where lay their allegiance." What are we meant to do with her?" someone said in a deep callous tone The reply was "We can't hold onto her for long, those asshole angels will be after her""So who do we hand her over to?"" We don't until we find out what she knows""And how do we do that?"" We turn her into one of us then she will be more compliant"Diana heard could not see them for they had blindfolded her. But she could hear the sound of a whimpering young man as her captures dragged him across the floor. She heard some callous tone saying "Looks like dinner is here"Vampires. Tightening his grip on the staff, Tobias walked over to the corner of the building where he'd seen movement. At a conversational level, he spoke to whoever was around the corner, "I just got into town. Where's a body able to find a beer and the latest goings-on in these parts?" In an equally conversational tone, but more eager, came the reply, "Don't know about beer, butIcould use a drink."the voice's owner stepped out into the open. It appeared as a black man, late twenties, with dreadlocks, dressed in camo pants and a t-shirt. His eyes were red and Tobias watched the man's canine fangs lengthen in anticipation. Tobias initiated locking eyes with the vampire, which unnerved the creature. This was a test of will and dominance. Without blinking, Tobias spoke, "You're a young one, ain't ya? Ya got the look. Anxious...." The creature looked confused. He was uncomfortable. The man should be trying to escape or defend himself. Not staring at him. No matter. He lunged at the human, but before the vampire could reach him, the man's staff pivoted in the man's hands, and it was driven into the creature's chest and through his heart, stopping nearly all the vampire's voluntary muscles. The man kept the staff in him while pushing him to the ground." Did ya know, Fangs," continued Tobias, "that some little male spiders escape after they've shoved themselves into the black widow?"" What?" gasped the vampire." Oh, goodie," Tobias said, "you can still talk. Well, an alley ain't a bar and I don't have a beer, but you can still help me catch up on all the news. You'll tell me, won't ya?" The vampire began making threats, until he saw the man pull a heavy knife out from the inside of his jacket. In a swift fluid motion, the bottom of the knife handle crashed down and shattered the vampire's top left fang. Eventually, the vampire gave up what he knew about vampires in Detroit and their lairs. They'd captured someone important to the apocalypse war, but he didn't know who or the exact location of where the person was being kept. The man asked him more about the lairs, about mystic symbols in the lairs. The vampire told him about one lair in particular." You've been helpful," said Tobias. "How lucky I was to run into you." The knife came down once more, blade end first, and the vampire lost his head. Tobias pulled the staff from the headless creature's body and prayed on his knees." Binder and Healer, God moves in mysterious ways. We have information. The path ahead is filled with danger greater than this last. While I know you are with me in many ways, I feel less than capable and alone. If you can, send me companions to help me through this trial and to help me to recover what was lost. In His name, amen." Tobias arose, and began walking toward the heart of the city. Roma Downy wrote:Tightening his grip on the staff, Tobias walked over to the corner of the building where he'd seen movement. At a conversational level, he spoke to whoever was around the corner, "I just got into town. Where's a body able to find a beer and the latest goings-on in these parts?" In an equally conversational tone, but more eager, came the reply, "Don't know about beer, but I could use a drink." the voice's owner stepped out into the open. It appeared as a black man, late twenties, with dreadlocks, dressed in camo pants and a t-shirt. His eyes were red and Tobias watched the man's canine fangs lengthen in anticipation. Tobias initiated locking eyes with the vampire, which unnerved the creature. This was a test of will and dominance. Without blinking, Tobias spoke, "You're a young one, ain't ya? Ya got the look. Anxious...." The creature looked confused. He was uncomfortable. The man should be trying to escape or defend himself. Not staring at him. No matter. He lunged at the human, but before the vampire could reach him, the man's staff pivoted in the man's hands, and it was driven into the creature's chest and through his heart, stopping nearly all the vampire's voluntary muscles. The man kept the staff in him while pushing him to the ground." Did ya know, Fangs," continued Tobias, "that some little male spiders escape after they've shoved themselves into the black widow?"" What?" gasped the vampire." Oh, goodie," Tobias said, "you can still talk. Well, an alley ain't a bar and I don't have a beer, but you can still help me catch up on all the news. You'll tell me, won't ya?" The vampire began making threats, until he saw the man pull a heavy knife out from the inside of his jacket. In a swift fluid motion, the bottom of the knife handle crashed down and shattered the vampire's top left fang. Eventually, the vampire gave up what he knew about vampires in Detroit and their lairs. They'd captured someone important to the apocalypse war, but he didn't know who or the exact location of where the person was being kept. The man asked him more about the lairs, about mystic symbols in the lairs. The vampire told him about one lair in particular." You've been helpful," said Tobias. "How lucky I was to run into you." The knife came down once more, blade end first, and the vampire lost his head. Tobias pulled the staff from the headless creature's body and prayed on his knees." Binder and Healer, God moves in mysterious ways. We have information. The path ahead is filled with danger greater than this last. While I know you are with me in many ways, I feel less than capable and alone. If you can, send me companions to help me through this trial and to help me to recover what was lost. In His name, amen." Tobias arose, and began walking toward the heart of the city. Apsinthos heard the prayer of Tobias echoing through his mind and the angel plexus of communication. This was a devout man, Absinthe was puzzled by why this man has yet to be raptured. Nevertheless, he appears to Tobias. A blinding flash of white light engulfed Tobias as Absinthe appeared. It died down and revealed him, black torn wings spread behind him, clad in a long gray hooded cloak which veiled the purest of silver chain mail underneath. His eyes shone bright blue under his hood and he spoke in a beckoning tone"I am Absinthe. I am an angel of the lord, and I am here in answer to you prayer"Meanwhile in the abandoned building Diana remained still as she heard the vampires tearing into the flesh of their victim. He yelped and then cried as the vampires ripped parts of him off, mainly around his neck, with their spike like canines. He went silent, and they laughed, mouths full of his blood. One approached Diana and removed he blindfold. He was hideous. Medium height but burly. The vampire's curled hair reached his shoulder. He was picking parts of the man out of his fangs when he spoke in an eerie manner"Mummy, hello there beautiful"He began to stroke her cheek with the back of his hand She squealed and he chuckled Gabriel you bastard, why have you abandoned me she screamed in the head. "My dear patron, I have some information that may be of use to you." said a demon to the Kai. Then a small skeleton came up to the massive black dragon, who was still in his slumber. "M-master, we have information of some vampires that are causing trouble in the areas of Detroit. And by the sounds of things, they have someone who is valuable to both demon and angel alike." Hearing those words made Kai twitch his muscles. Something both sides want, huh?" Who are these vampires, and who or what is this valuable thing?"" We do not know who the vampires are, but the valuable thing is a vessel to an archangel."" A vessel? Well this is interesting, send a small contingent of skeletons, say 30 knights and 20 archers. Tell them that if they fail, they shall become a pile of bones once again."" Yes master."" I shall take flight over there immediately, I don't want to pass up this opportunity to see both sides bargain for this vessel." The dragon stood up on all fours and stretched out his wings. With the flapping of his wings, which created a windstorm around the beast, he took flight. His destination: Detroit. A lone angel stood in the streets of Detroit surrounded by the charred cadavers of the demons who had sprung up from nowhere. They weren't quick or powerful enough to escape the angel. They lay now upon the ground, eyes burnt out, completely dead. There still he remained clad in white-gold armor which was standard for most angels. They have slain demons were of a lower caste so he had no problem in smiting them. One gurgled and spat blood upon the pavement. He approached the near-death demon"What were your orders you filth" demanded the angel The demon did not reply, that was when the angel drew out his pointed blade, kneeled down and put it through the demon's shoulder. The demon screamed in pain. The demon that had possessed this small bald man replied through his captive's lips"W-we were meant-t to find a girl""Which girl""I do not know, Azazel didn't give us her name""Who is casting the angels out of their vessels" demanded the angel twisting his blade The demon replied after growling in pain"I don't know"The angel stood back up but did not notice the demon who began to manifest behind him." I have no need for you then" replied the angel The newly appeared demon behind the angel grabbed hold of him and threw him to the ground. The eyeless tortured demon burst asunder into a gory mess. The angel attempted to stand but was grabbed by the throat and lifted off the ground. The demon had taken the form of a man. He was tall with dark hair and white eyes. He wore a black two-piece suit with a black tie. He spoke in Enchain"OMANI ADRIAN OF ADRIAN HOGARTH DS OF NE LIT OF OLP IRT "the angel's eyes spewed a white light and his mouth the same There was a flash and the angel's abandoned vessel fell to the ground, unconscious Kai was about halfway to Detroit from the looks of things. Furthermore, he could see his small contingent of skeletons heading to the city in the distance behind him. Their job would be simple, To find the vessel. The only thing Kai will have to do when he reaches Detroit is to raise the dead to join his small army. Maybe I'll find some rare beast to bring back to life. More than likely I'll have to settle with more skeleton soldiers. The dragon gave out a sigh, releasing a cloud of Black Death. "At least I don't have to worry about being smote by the angels as I fly." As he was flying he saw a small flash of light come from a small street in the city. "Their goes another angel. This war of theirs makes my job easy as I don't have to spread death around, and I get an army for free out of this. But why can't they take a break once in a while?" "Hello, Sire" said a soul that was recruited by Saint Demetrius to be one of his angel bodyguards as he entered the room"Well, hello Sergei, are you ready to fight some demons?" Demetrius replied as he looked up from his brand-new sword (this is one was recently made after his last one was broken by a dirty godforsaken demon)"I'm always ready, but we might be outnumbered" Sergei said as he brought out his sword of fire, a sign of wealth and power in the ranks of Saint Demetrius army." Fuck numbers, we only outnumbered 5 to 1, I say we only send half of our forces in case we scare them" said Saint June as he entered the room. (in truth, it was 10 angels and 50 demons right outside their base)"ALRIGHT, LETS SHOW THESE MOTHER*KEYS SOME LIGHT!!!" Saint Demetrius yelled as he and his 9 comrades ran outside the door, ready to kick some serious demon ass. As Kai was entering the city limits, he saw what appeared to be a battle between demons and angels. He shifted his flight path to the battleground. Kai's army wouldn't arrive for quite some time so he decided that he would give them a good heart attack.---A while Later---Kai arrived within eyesight of the participants of the battle. Kai let out a roar, the roar that put fear into mortals and immortals alike. The roar was audible across the city and those affiliated with demons knew it well, they knew it was from the dragon of death, and even those with the angels could recognize the roar is that of a dragon. He then dived into the middle of the battle, crushing several demons under his feet as well as an angel. The demons knowing of the dragon's strength just backed away a bit as the dragon looked at the angels. Kai looked around at the angels and noticed what he could assume to be a saint. "Angels bow, Do you know who I am?" He then looked directly at the saint. "Saint, what is your name?" Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:As Kai was entering the city limits, he saw what appeared to be a battle between demons and angels. He shifted his flight path to the battleground. Kai's army wouldn't arrive for quite some time so he decided that he would give them a good heart attack.---A while Later---Kai arrived within eyesight of the participants of the battle. Kai let out a roar, the roar that put fear into mortals and immortals alike. The roar was audible across the city and those affiliated with demons knew it well, they knew it was from the dragon of death, and even those with the angels could recognize the roar is that of a dragon. He then dived into the middle of the battle, crushing several demons under his feet as well as an angel. The demons knowing of the dragon's strength just backed away a bit as the dragon looked at the angels. Kai looked around at the angels and noticed what he could assume to be a saint. "Angels bow, Do you know who I am?" He then looked directly at the saint. "Saint, what is your name?""I'm Demetrius of Thessaloniki. And who are YOU? I mean you just came in middle of our battle here, trying to save your demon friends?" Demetrius said with a smile and Saint Jorge laughed little before regaining a serious face Kai gave out a tremendous laugh that the saint(s?) could feel vibrate their bodies. "Me? Save them? I am the Dragon of Death, I do not discriminate, as you can see with the demons who are dying under my feet. Saint, I like your humor. I have an army of 50 skeletons coming here to scour the city for a certain vessel." The dragon turned its head to the demons under its feet, with one of them still breathing, but just barely. "Your time has come, now you shall feed me and become one of my soldiers." He did a quick bite and ripped his head and shoulders off of his body, followed by him swallowing it. He then lifted his foot revealing two other demons who have died from being crushed, and started to reanimate them. "Saint, do you know of this vessel that I seek? I shall reward you handsomely for information on it." the dragon said as he swiveled its head, looking at the saint who laughed a little while ago, and started to breath the visible pestilence that slowly creeped towards him. "Do you want to know how death feels like mortal?" The Metro Protections wrote: Absinthe heard the prayer of Tobias echoing through his mind and the angel plexus of communication. This was a devout man, Absinthe was puzzled by why this man has yet to be raptured. Nevertheless, he appears to Tobias. A blinding flash of white light engulfed Tobias as Absinthe appeared. It died down and revealed him, black torn wings spread behind him, clad in a long gray hooded cloak which veiled the purest of silver chain mail underneath. His eyes shone bright blue under his hood and he spoke in a beckoning tone"I am Absinthe. I am an angel of the Lord, and I am here in answer to you prayer"Tobias had been completely astounded by the appearance of Absinthe, but as the angel's white light lessened in intensity the man regained his composure. He gave the angel's appearance a quick appraisal and said, "Damn, son, but you look like you've been through the ringer. I'm not complaining about you arriving to help me. Still, one of the reasons I'm on this mission is that I don't look like a threat to those infernal pastiches, and they figure I can't do anything to mess up their plans. So, do ya have a way to disguise yourself? At least until the fighting gets serious?" He hoped that his new ally wouldn't take offense. Streets of Detroit With the angel now expelled from the vessel, the demon now picked up the unconscious human and slammed him onto the bonnet of a Cadillac. He would receive no information from the vessel as the angel expelled was of a lower caste. He proceeded to pull out a curved dagger and slit the throat of the man from ear to ear, severing the spine. Diana's location With her gag now out she looked up at the fanged bastard who had begun to caress her. He met her gaze and she spat in his face. The vampire was not at all fussed by her outburst and acted as if nothing had happened. This angered Diana, this was a ruthless vampire. She had dealt with his kind before but not as herself. Gabriel had killed many vampires with her hand, it is likely this is why they held her captive.(IOC: Sorry for the short posts, I am not in the best health atm) Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:Kai gave out a tremendous laugh that the saint(s?) could feel vibrate their bodies. "Me? Save them? I am the Dragon of Death, I do not discriminate, as you can see with the demons who are dying under my feet. Saint, I like your humor. I have an army of 50 skeletons coming here to scour the city for a certain vessel." The dragon turned its head to the demons under its feet, with one of them still breathing, but just barely. "Your time has come, now you shall feed me and become one of my soldiers." He did a quick bite and ripped his head and shoulders off of his body, followed by him swallowing it. He then lifted his foot revealing two other demons who have died from being crushed, and started to reanimate them. "Saint, do you know of this vessel that I seek? I shall reward you handsomely for information on it." the dragon said as he swiveled its head, looking at the saint who laughed a little while ago, and started to breath the visible pestilence that slowly creeped towards him. "Do you want to know how death feels like mortal?"" Yes, I know how death feels like, I was murdered. I was tortured until they finally decided to end my life. I have no fear of you." Saint Jorge said at the dragon even though he was scared out of his wits inside, for who could fight this mighty beast?" I have no idea what you're looking for, for I have only just now been sent down to earth. But if what you looking for is a key to destroying the light, I'm scared I can't help you with that" Saint Demetrius replied as he held a hand signal behind his back, so all his mortal army fled the scene and only he, Jorge, and 2 other saints were left. "Ah so you do know what death is like. I admire your bravery, however you should choose your words more wisely." He once again swiveled his head to face the one who responded to his other question. "So this vessel can destroy light, how interesting. It makes me want it more, so I can see the sides squirm as I pick who to give it to." Kai looked down at the reanimated corpses from those he crushed. "Search the city for the vessel that I seek, kill any threats to said vessel, or I will make it so you will linger in death for eternity." The two corpses nodded and shambled away slowly, with the broken bones easy to distinguish as they move down the street." Saints, I wish for you to join me in my search. I have heard of vampires being the ones to hold this vessel, so I would assume you would want to bring the vessel to your angelic friends of yours. You help me, I help you." A small army of skeletons were starting to appear on the horizon." And my army seems to be approaching, make your decision quickly." Roma Downy wrote:The Metro Protections wrote: Absinthe heard the prayer of Tobias echoing through his mind and the angel plexus of communication. This was a devout man, Absinthe was puzzled by why this man has yet to be raptured. Nevertheless, he appears to Tobias. A blinding flash of white light engulfed Tobias as Absinthe appeared. It died down and revealed him, black torn wings spread behind him, clad in a long gray hooded cloak which veiled the purest of silver chain mail underneath. His eyes shone bright blue under his hood and he spoke in a beckoning tone"I am Absinthe. I am an angel of the Lord, and I am here in answer to you prayer"Tobias had been completely astounded by the appearance of Absinthe, but as the angel's white light lessened in intensity the man regained his composure. He gave the angel's appearance a quick appraisal and said, "Damn, son, but you look like you've been through the ringer. I'm not complaining about you arriving to help me. Still, one of the reasons I'm on this mission is that I don't look like a threat to those infernal pastiches, and they figure I can't do anything to mess up their plans. So, do ya have a way to disguise yourself? At least until the fighting gets serious?" He hoped that his new ally wouldn't take offense. Apsinthos is rendered quizzical by this remark, He replied in a dull tone"If it is necessary I could take another vessel, but I will need a willing host, one which will not reject me. Perhaps I could lay dormant in you body?. You are strong. A good vessel. You will not burn up as I possess you though I need your consent. I would be out of the way until I can spring upon the enemy in battle. The element of surprise is a great perk, they would never know that you would have an angel inside of you. For a time you will be impervious to death and remain in control of your body. What say you? Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:"Ah so you do know what death is like. I admire your bravery, however you should choose your words more wisely." He once again swiveled his head to face the one who responded to his other question. "So this vessel can destroy light, how interesting. It makes me want it more, so I can see the sides squirm as I pick who to give it to." Kai looked down at the reanimated corpses from those he crushed. "Search the city for the vessel that I seek, kill any threats to said vessel, or I will make it so you will linger in death for eternity." The two corpses nodded and shambled away slowly, with the broken bones easy to distinguish as they move down the street." Saints, I wish for you to join me in my search. I have heard of vampires being the ones to hold this vessel, so I would assume you would want to bring the vessel to your angelic friends of yours. You help me, I help you." A small army of skeletons were starting to appear on the horizon." And my army seems to be approaching, make your decision quickly.""" Ahh, I see. Well, I think about it and I might just help you" and with that, Saint Demetrius just vanished"damn it Demetrius, you know I can't vanish like you" Saint Jorge yelled at the air as he looked at the dragon fearfully and quickly flew south, away from the army of skeletons and the dragon." Mr. Dragon, if you want to reach me, just breath fire at the air at the northern star 6 times" and with that, Saint Jude left, vanishing with his other saint comrades The Metro Protections wrote:Absinthe is rendered quizzical by this remark, He replied in a dull tone"If it is necessary I could take another vessel, but I will need a willing host, one which will not reject me. Perhaps I could lay dormant in you body?. You are strong. A good vessel. You will not burn up as I possess you though I need your consent. I would be out of the way until I can spring upon the enemy in battle. The element of surprise is a great perk, they would never know that you would have an angel inside of you. For a time you will be impervious to death and remain in control of your body. What say you? Tobias considered the angel's offer. He didn't know enough about angelic politics and worried that it could possibly offend Raphael, but the Binder of Demons and Healer had given him a mission. Raphael likely couldn't complain much if they succeeded."Well-spoken, angel." said Tobias. "Absinthe, rest quiet inside me, until we find you another suitable vessel, or I need you to leave." With that Tobias allowed the angel access to his body. Roma Downy wrote:The Metro Protections wrote:Absinthe is rendered quizzical by this remark, He replied in a dull tone"If it is necessary I could take another vessel, but I will need a willing host, one which will not reject me. Perhaps I could lay dormant in you body?. You are strong. A good vessel. You will not burn up as I possess you though I need your consent. I would be out of the way until I can spring upon the enemy in battle. The element of surprise is a great perk, they would never know that you would have an angel inside of you. For a time you will be impervious to death and remain in control of your body. What say you? Tobias considered the angel's offer. He didn't know enough about angelic politics and worried that it could possibly offend Raphael, but the Binder of Demons and Healer had given him a mission. Raphael likely couldn't complain much if they succeeded."Well-spoken, angel." said Tobias. "Absinthe, rest quiet inside me, until we find you another suitable vessel, or I need you to leave." With that Tobias allowed the angel access to his body." Very well" said ApsinthosHis vessels slowly began to become a bright white miasma. It started at his cloak, it began to disperse into the air. Then his body became a lingering mist that drifted to Tobias. He entered through Tobias' nose and mouth. This lit Tobias' eyes up for the moment, a bright blue like when Absinthe appeared. Within his shared vessel Absinthe could still operate through astral projection of his true form, and he could still enter the dreams of humans. He called upon Saint Demetrius with his mind." It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel" The Metro Protections wrote:Roma Downy wrote:Tobias considered the angel's offer. He didn't know enough about angelic politics and worried that it could possibly offend Raphael, but the Binder of Demons and Healer had given him a mission. Raphael likely couldn't complain much if they succeeded."Well-spoken, angel." said Tobias. "Absinthe, rest quiet inside me, until we find you another suitable vessel, or I need you to leave." With that Tobias allowed the angel access to his body." Very well" said ApsinthosHis vessels slowly began to become a bright white miasma. It started at his cloak, it began to disperse into the air. Then his body became a lingering mist that drifted to Tobias. He entered through Tobias' nose and mouth. This lit Tobias' eyes up for the moment, a bright blue like when Absinthe appeared. Within his shared vessel Absinthe could still operate through astral projection of his true form, and he could still enter the dreams of humans. He called upon Saint Demetrius with his mind." It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel""ugh, someone is messaging me" Saint Demetrius said as he tried to get up, damn why was it so hard to leave that place with the dragon? Was the dragon's power so great it affected his own powers and caused them to be weakened? He would have to look into that. Message: "It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel""Ahh, so its Absinthe. And he wants Gabriel's vessel? Why in the name of everything holy does he want that? I must meet him so we can talk, but where? I can't invite him here or someone might follow him...I just go to him then"And with that, Demetrius sent a message to Absinthe "Why do you need Gabriel's vessel? Set up a place where we can meet and talk" The skeleton army has arrived, and as for their orders they started to search the city, killing almost anything that got in their way. Kai was flying overhead, watching and giving orders to his skeletons while reanimating those that were killed by his skeletons. "There appears to be a vampire on the street to the right, skeletons go and capture him. Alive." The 10 skeletons went around the corner and saw the vampire, and they started to charge. The vampire noticed the skeleton group only too late as they were practically on top of him. The skeletons used the back ends of their weapons and bludgeoned the vampire to the point where even if he wanted to, he would not be able to run. The skeletons lifted the vampire up and brought him back to Kai." Where is the vessel you are hiding?"" I don't know!" the vampire said in horror." Yes, you do. Remember that if you are lying, I will personally kill you in the most painful way you can imagine."" I'm not kidding, I don't know where the vessel is!" The dragon looked at the vampire for a minute and then breathed a black cloud of air into the vampires face." I shall believe you, now go and find your friends before I do. Tell them to get out of the city, or they will die like the rest of them." With that, the vampire took off. Little did the vampire know that he carried a deadly disease that kills vampires in a very painful way, with their bones start to melt and their skin burns after an hour of being infected, as well as being dangerously infectious."" Skeletons, increase your search area, we must find that vessel before the angels or the demons!" Kai said to his skeletons. He then followed his order with a roar that could be heard throughout the city, he roared so that are lower on the power scale would avoid the city like the plague. Kosovo12345 wrote:The Metro Protections wrote:"Very well" said ApsinthosHis vessels slowly began to become a bright white miasma. It started at his cloak, it began to disperse into the air. Then his body became a lingering mist that drifted to Tobias. He entered through Tobias' nose and mouth. This lit Tobias' eyes up for the moment, a bright blue like when Absinthe appeared. Within his shared vessel Absinthe could still operate through astral projection of his true form, and he could still enter the dreams of humans. He called upon Saint Demetrius with his mind." It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel""ugh, someone is messaging me" Saint Demetrius said as he tried to get up, damn why was it so hard to leave that place with the dragon? Was the dragon's power so great it affected his own powers and caused them to be weakened? He would have to look into that. Message: "It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel""Ahh, so its Absinthe. And he wants Gabriel's vessel? Why in the name of everything holy does he want that? I must meet him so we can talk, but where? I can't invite him here or someone might follow him...I just go to him then" And with that, Demetrius sent a message to Absinthe "Why do you need Gabriel's vessel? Set up a place where we can meet and talk"Absinthe received the message from Demetrius and replied"The vessel knows who cast Gabriel out. That person is a threat to all angels and I have been sent back here to kill that person. We cannot meet as I am dormant in a companion's vessel, but I can meet you in your mind. Just sleep, and I will visit you there" The vampire caressing Diana responded to something she could not hear, but then she heard it, seconds after him, a loud abhorrent roar that echoed into the abandoned building and shook the walls as well as the vampires. Diana could see the fear in the vampire's eyes. This terrified him. He turned back to look at her then ran out through the ragged hole in the wall, from whence nails jutted. He was gone but she could still hear him. Furthermore, he was talking frantically among the others something about skeletons. Skeletons? She thought to herself. What are they doing here. Diana would have preferred to be back in heaven, but she was here for a reason. Why did Gabriel have to choose her, she was raptured, but now she was a part of the apocalypse? She was there at the opening of the hell gate west of Detroit, well Gabriel was. She could remember the first confrontation. Many lower caste angels fell to the demons. The more powerful ones had to pull back as Abandon clawed his way out and cast away the archangel Brachial. Gabriel had heard that Brachial was now locked in heaven, he had been sent back but was no longer able to return, his wings had been 'clipped'. This was information Gabriel allowed Diana to have. Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:The skeleton army has arrived, and as for their orders they started to search the city, killing almost anything that got in their way. Kai was flying overhead, watching and giving orders to his skeletons while reanimating those that were killed by his skeletons. "There appears to be a vampire on the street to the right, skeletons go and capture him. Alive." The 10 skeletons went around the corner and saw the vampire, and they started to charge. The vampire noticed the skeleton group only too late as they were practically on top of him. The skeletons used the back ends of their weapons and bludgeoned the vampire to the point where even if he wanted to, he would not be able to run. The skeletons lifted the vampire up and brought him back to Kai." Where is the vessel you are hiding?"" I don't know!" the vampire said in horror." Yes, you do. Remember that if you are lying, I will personally kill you in the most painful way you can imagine."" I'm not kidding, I don't know where the vessel is!" The dragon looked at the vampire for a minute and then breathed a black cloud of air into the vampires face." I shall believe you, now go and find your friends before I do. Tell them to get out of the city, or they will die like the rest of them." With that, the vampire took off. Little did the vampire know that he carried a deadly disease that kills vampires in a very painful way, with their bones start to melt and their skin burns after an hour of being infected, as well as being dangerously infectious."" Skeletons, increase your search area, we must find that vessel before the angels or the demons!" Kai said to his skeletons. He then followed his order with a roar that could be heard throughout the city, he roared so that are lower on the power scale would avoid the city like the plague. Hearing that he was sending the skeletons, Jorge and Jude decided to have some fun and waited hidden till he saw a group of only 3 skeletons." Idiots" muttered Jorge "Who the hell travels in groups of less than 5 in this damn city?""aren't we only in a group of 2?" Jude replied with a smile"Well....that's different. Now, kill 2 and get 1 as a prisoner, weaned information"And with that, Jude took out his sword of fire and shot fire at one of the skeleton and Jorge completely killed the other be entering his mind and filled it with Light and when the skeleton just stopped as his mind was destroyed, Jorge killed him with a slice of his sword."lower your weapon and be quiet, and you may live" Jorge said to the remaining skeleton. The Metro Protections wrote:Kosovo12345 wrote:"ugh, someone is messaging me" Saint Demetrius said as he tried to get up, damn why was it so hard to leave that place with the dragon? Was the dragon's power so great it affected his own powers and caused them to be weakened? He would have to look into that. Message: "It has been a while since we have communicated, but I require your aid in the finding of Gabriel's vessel""Ahh, so its Absinthe. And he wants Gabriel's vessel? Why in the name of everything holy does he want that? I must meet him so we can talk, but where? I can't invite him here or someone might follow him...I just go to him then" And with that, Demetrius sent a message to Absinthe "Why do you need Gabriel's vessel? Set up a place where we can meet and talk"Absinthe received the message from Demetrius and replied"The vessel knows who cast Gabriel out. That person is a threat to all angels and I have been sent back here to kill that person. We cannot meet as I am dormant in a companion's vessel, but I can meet you in your mind. Just sleep, and I will visit you there"Ahh.... I can't sleep, I have to be fully awake. But don't worry, I can message you while awake. Just have to try really hard and not give out too much light Demetrius messaged to Absinthe Kosovo12345 wrote:The Metro Protections wrote:Absinthe received the message from Demetrius and replied"The vessel knows who cast Gabriel out. That person is a threat to all angels and I have been sent back here to kill that person. We cannot meet as I am dormant in a companion's vessel, but I can meet you in your mind. Just sleep, and I will visit you there"Ahh.... I can't sleep, I have to be fully awake. But don't worry, I can message you while awake. Just have to try really hard and not give out too much light Demetrius messaged to Absinthe"Why can you not sleep Demetrius? Is there something that ails you? Apsinthos replies"And where are you? I cannot seem to locate you as certain abilities have been taken from me. I was forced to fall from heaven, they said if I didn't they would kill me" The last skeleton looked at the two, and then it dropped its weapon. "You realize that you just killed two skeletons that belonged to Kai, the dragon of death. You better hope that he doesn't find out, as skeletons are hard to get nowadays." and with that, it stood still waiting for its inevitable return to where it once came from. Kai felt disturbed, almost as if some under his command had returned to the grave. He swiveled his head to a nearby skeleton that was animated from the corpse of the demons he killed. "Go back to hell, and find my royal guard. You shall be repaid by being released from your contract."" Yes master." And with that, his skeleton turned to dust as its soul went right into hell. It then started to search for the skeleton guard, an army of 150 skeletons who rode wyverns. It found them fairly quickly and gave them orders to return to Kai, in the city of Detroit. The portal from hell became active as the army of 150 skeletons with their mounts rode out of hell into the world and headed to the city. "No-one shall escape our wrath." said the captain of the skeletons. The road cracked as a bolt of light slammed into the Earth, leaving behind a man standing in a smoking section of the road, looking in a daze. After a few minutes he shook his head and stretched out, the new occupant testing the limits of the body. Gad reel had chosen well in terms of vessel, a robust frame and a good source of strength, it should deter most humans from mistaking him for a lesser being. He took in his surroundings, studying each detail like a painting, trying to get a good understanding where he was." Route 75" he said to himself, looking a metal sign "Hell has opened further away than I thought"The mission he had been given was clear, defeat the demons and protect Heavens Host, although he wished to fulfill this duty he was reluctant to assist other angels due to their...complex nature and history. Letting out a heavy breath, he began walking into the shell of what was once a city, trying to find someone to help or fight. The Metro Protections wrote:Kosovo12345 wrote:Ahh.... I can't sleep, I have to be fully awake. But don't worry, I can message you while awake. Just have to try really hard and not give out too much light Demetrius messaged to Absinthe"Why can you not sleep Demetrius? Is there something that ails you? Apsinthos replies"And where are you? I cannot seem to locate you as certain abilities have been taken from me. I was forced to fall from heaven, they said if I didn't they would kill me""You can't go back till you find what you're looking for? I will help you alright, and I can't sleep because I'm afraid that Detroit is more dangerous than we assumed. Dragons and vampires and skeletons and the like"Demetrius then sent the message and ordered his human servant to see what made a noise outside Nick Bases wrote:The road cracked as a bolt of light slammed into the Earth, leaving behind a man standing in a smoking section of the road, looking in a daze. After a few minutes he shook his head and stretched out, the new occupant testing the limits of the body. Gad reel had chosen well in terms of vessel, a robust frame and a good source of strength, it should deter most humans from mistaking him for a lesser being. He took in his surroundings, studying each detail like a painting, trying to get a good understanding where he was." Route 75" he said to himself, looking a metal sign "Hell has opened further away than I thought"The mission he had been given was clear, defeat the demons and protect Heavens Host, although he wished to fulfill this duty he was reluctant to assist other angels due to their...complex nature and history. Letting out a heavy breath, he began walking into the shell of what was once a city, trying to find someone to help or fight." Wait! You there, stop! Damn it, stop walking and come over here. I have your sword from Eden!" saint Vincent yelled out as he tried to catch up with Gad reel while carrying the Sword of Eden Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:The last skeleton looked at the two, and then it dropped its weapon. "You realize that you just killed two skeletons that belonged to Kai, the dragon of death. You better hope that he doesn't find out, as skeletons are hard to get nowadays." and with that, it stood still waiting for its inevitable return to where it once came from. Kai felt disturbed, almost as if some under his command had returned to the grave. He swiveled his head to a nearby skeleton that was animated from the corpse of the demons he killed. "Go back to hell, and find my royal guard. You shall be repaid by being released from your contract."" Yes master." And with that, his skeleton turned to dust as its soul went right into hell. It then started to search for the skeleton guard, an army of 150 skeletons who rode wyverns. It found them fairly quickly and gave them orders to return to Kai, in the city of Detroit. The portal from hell became active as the army of 150 skeletons with their mounts rode out of hell into the world and headed to the city. "No-one shall escape our wrath." said the captain of the skeletons. Saint Jorge quickly killed the last skeleton as he decided it wasn't worth their time to question it. He and Jude then felt an opening from Hell and sensed a massive army coming." Damn, how many creatures is the Devil gonna release? Or are these Kai's hell troops?" Saint Jude asked as he looked at the location of the opening."Let's find out more, let's go to Kai himself and try to make a deal with him, he doesn't seem that bloodthirsty" saint Jorge said as he started to fly away"Wait!" Saint Jude yelled out and then flew to Jorge in the air "Make a deal with KAI?!?!? I hope you don't mean a real deal""We can't break a deal, we angels. We just have to find a deal that saves us and Saint Demetrius and doesn't make us lose this battle" and with that, they flew to Kai in quietness "There, our orders?"" We ride out to aid our master."" Why would he send for us though, it has been ages since we last rode into battle."" Because we are the Royal guard, It is our duty to answer any call he makes." The wyverns approach the city. "We are almost there men, We may have to ride into battle, so get your weapons ready." A unison of skeletons shouted as they got their weapons ready, "Yes sir." Kai looked up at the quiet sound of wings flapping. "Who approaches me?" The dragon swung his tail into the air, and then made it come crashing down into the street, making a loud noise and a small dust cloud from the concrete. He then saw the two saints approaching him, and gave out a little laugh. "It is you again, I should have guessed. So have you come to beseech me to clear the area out? Or maybe to assist me in my search for the vessel." Kosovo12345 wrote:Nick Bases wrote:The road cracked as a bolt of light slammed into the Earth, leaving behind a man standing in a smoking section of the road, looking in a daze. After a few minutes he shook his head and stretched out, the new occupant testing the limits of the body. Gad reel had chosen well in terms of vessel, a robust frame and a good source of strength, it should deter most humans from mistaking him for a lesser being. He took in his surroundings, studying each detail like a painting, trying to get a good understanding where he was." Route 75" he said to himself, looking a metal sign "Hell has opened further away than I thought"The mission he had been given was clear, defeat the demons and protect Heavens Host, although he wished to fulfill this duty he was reluctant to assist other angels due to their...complex nature and history. Letting out a heavy breath, he began walking into the shell of what was once a city, trying to find someone to help or fight. "Wait! You there, stop! Damn it, stop walking and come over here. I have your sword from Eden!" saint Vincent yelled out as he tried to catch up with Gad reel while carrying the Sword of EdenGadreel stopped half stride as he heard someone call out, turning around to see someone running towards him. "How did you get my weapon?" He asked Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:"There, our orders?"" We ride out to aid our master."" Why would he send for us though, it has been ages since we last rode into battle."" Because we are the Royal guard, It is our duty to answer any call he makes." The wyverns approach the city. "We are almost there men, We may have to ride into battle, so get your weapons ready." A unison of skeletons shouted as they got their weapons ready, "Yes sir." Kai looked up at the quiet sound of wings flapping. "Who approaches me?" The dragon swung his tail into the air, and then made it come crashing down into the street, making a loud noise and a small dust cloud from the concrete. He then saw the two saints approaching him, and gave out a little laugh. "It is you again, I should have guessed. So have you come to beseech me to clear the area out? Or maybe to assist me in my search for the vessel." As they landed next to the dragon, Saint Jorge said without a moment to spare "We will help you find this vessel, but only if u help us and not Hell. This is important, and you must understand if demons and such got hold of this, there will be no place for you to be king of. I think I can speak for all angels when I say if you help us get this vessel, you will be the king of the earth and Hell."" As my comrade here said, I also have another detail to add. To make you king of Hell, you will need an army to take it, we can give such an army" Saint Jude said even though he didn't like the idea of helping a dragon Nick Bases wrote:Kosovo12345 wrote: "Wait! You there, stop! Damn it, stop walking and come over here. I have your sword from Eden!" saint Vincent yelled out as he tried to catch up with Gad reel while carrying the Sword of EdenGadreel stopped half stride as he heard someone call out, turning around to see someone running towards him. "How did you get my weapon?" He asked"Saint Demetrius gave it to me, he said when you fell from your position after your MMM "accident" at the gardens, he took it before anyone noticed it and kept it hidden. He was the one who ordered your release and truth to be told, it was easy under what's going on to release a prisoner on grounds of needing help. All we ask is that you be a spy for us and be our eyes/ears, and you can have your mighty weapon back" Saint Vincent said After hearing that he could be king of earth and hell, Kai looked at the saints with an intrigued glisten in its eyes. "Me be a king of earth and hell? This is a very interesting offer you are giving me. However only a coward would turn it down, but only a fool would accept without hearing all the terms. Tell me the terms before a make my decision." The massive dragons head snapped to their left and looked up, confusing the saints for a short while until they heard the roar of wyverns. "My guard approaches, lay your terms quickly." Thyrn looks around at the small army of the wyverns with their riders, all of which were made of skeletons. Bleached bones from humans from a great war where many sins were committed, they were all once soldiers of many of the nations, but are now united under one goal, obey the contract that they were given by Kai. Thorn then felt the presence of their master, an ominous presence that one could feel when about to "go over" the trench when the general called. Isn't what we used to call fear? Can't be, skeletons can't feel fear. However, Thorn's thought is correct, the presence that they feel is death, andnothingcan escape death, not even those with a contract. "Men, our master is in the city, we shall head to him immediately." The group started to descend, rifles in hands. Diana could still hear the vampires talking in the other room, but them they started to make strange sounds. At first, she heard a panicky voice of a male vampire, now she could hear gurgling and screaming. A vampire came before her, this was a younger one, he turned to his friends and said"We need to leave now, they are coming"He began to feel a burning sensation and Diana could see parts of his face had become red, like he was becoming one big sore. He collapsed to the ground as if his bones no longer supported him. Then something strange happened. The same vampire that caressed her, appeared to be the leader, ran over and knelt down next to him, putting his hand on the collapsed vampire's brow. His hand went right in like his head was just a bag and pudding." What the hell is happening" Exclaimed the vampire Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:After hearing that he could be king of earth and hell, Kai looked at the saints with an intrigued glisten in its eyes. "Me be a king of earth and hell? This is a very interesting offer you are giving me. However only a coward would turn it down, but only a fool would accept without hearing all the terms. Tell me the terms before a make my decision." The massive dragons head snapped to their left and looked up, confusing the saints for a short while until they heard the roar of wyverns. "My guard approaches, lay your terms quickly." Thorn looks around at the small army of the wyverns with their riders, all of which were made of skeletons. Bleached bones from humans from a great war where many sins were committed, they were all once soldiers of many of the nations, but are now united under one goal, obey the contract that they were given by Kai. Thorn then felt the presence of their master, an ominous presence that one could feel when about to "go over" the trench when the general called. Isn't what we used to call fear? Can't be, skeletons can't feel fear. However, Thorn's thought is correct, the presence that they feel is death, and nothing can escape death, not even those with a contract. "Men, our master is in the city, we shall head to him immediately." The group started to descend, rifles in hands."when we find the vessel, we get it right away. Even though this vessel can't destroy us, it could damage and hurt our cause and armies. Once we get this vessel and have it safely put away, we will help you fight for your crown as king of earth and hell. We will even send angel units down to help you. And they will be leaded by Saint Demetrius, a great military leader who we think you would like." Saint Jorge said, and he waited for the dragon's reply Saint Jude looked nervous, but wasn't that worried about the deal. After all, after the rapture, earth doesn't mean much to Heaven. The dragon listened intently, and upon hearing the last of the terms, he gave out a great laugh. "So all I have to give you the vessel right away, and that's it? You have a deal." The dragon than added onto it with a joyous voice, "I'm not sure how much heaven values earth, but I can guarantee that I value it more than they in the clouds do. After all, I need a domain to rule over, and this wasteland of a planet is perfect." Kai swiveled his head and looked at his army approaching, and gave out another tremendous roar. To everything else, it sounded like the roar of a powerful beast that drew fear and terror. To Kai's army, it was a set of orders, Urgent orders. Thyrn, alone hearing the roar, lifted his hand and barked out to his skeletons, "Scour the city, Capture and kill all vampires after finding out information and find the vessel. Bring him/her back alive to Kai. Failure to do this will lead to contract termination." The army split up into 15 groups of 10 riders each. Each group heading in a different direction. Thorn's group landed beside Kai and looked at the saints. "Kai, what are you associating with saints for?"" They gave me a deal I could not refuse!"" Kai, why would you deal with heaven?"" Why, Thorn, I do not work for hell or heaven, I work for those who promise reward. The reward for this deal is one that cannot be trumped." The skeleton gave a sigh and looked at the saints. "Let me test your skills as warriors." The skeleton got off his wyvern and pulled out his sword. He eyed up saint Jude and pointed his sword at him. "Rules are this, the one to draw first blood wins, no powers, just skill." Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:The dragon listened intently, and upon hearing the last of the terms, he gave out a great laugh. "So all I have to give you the vessel right away, and that's it? You have a deal." The dragon than added onto it with a joyous voice, "I'm not sure how much heaven values earth, but I can guarantee that I value it more than they in the clouds do. After all, I need a domain to rule over, and this wasteland of a planet is perfect." Kai swiveled his head and looked at his army approaching, and gave out another tremendous roar. To everything else, it sounded like the roar of a powerful beast that drew fear and terror. To Kai's army, it was a set of orders, Urgent orders. Thyrn, alone hearing the roar, lifted his hand and barked out to his skeletons, "Scour the city, Capture and kill all vampires after finding out information and find the vessel. Bring him/her back alive to Kai. Failure to do this will lead to contract termination." The army split up into 15 groups of 10 riders each. Each group heading in a different direction. Thorn's group landed beside Kai and looked at the saints. "Kai, what are you associating with saints for?"" They gave me a deal I could not refuse!"" Kai, why would you deal with heaven?"" Why, Thorn, I do not work for hell or heaven, I work for those who promise reward. The reward for this deal is one that cannot be trumped." The skeleton gave a sigh and looked at the saints. "Let me test your skills as warriors." The skeleton got off his wyvern and pulled out his sword. He eyed up saint Jude and pointed his sword at him. "Rules are this, the one to draw first blood wins, no powers, just skill."" Alright, I fight" Saint Jude said as he took out his sword of fire and gave it to Jorge. Then he took out the sword that Alexander the Great used when he conquered Persia. He then looks at this...this thing that wants to fight him. I should not underestimate him he thought, he must be good to have such a good position in Kai's army. And then, he yelled and threw the sword, hoping the unexpected move would end this before he started. "I just threw my sword, now I only have 2 daggers" he thought Thorn barely dodged the sword, but just barely, and stumbled back. "Not bad, but what are you going to do now?" The skeleton did a quick lunge and swung his sword to the side, aiming for his shoulder. Kai looked on at the two, and gave a brief sigh. "It always amazes me in how you always have to test newcomers skills. But I can't blame you, you have never fought a saint before." Several of the Wyvern squads found vampires and killed a great deal of them. One group found out some information to make the search area shorter. "Inform the others, including master." A wyvern with a message attached to it flew towards Kai. Kosovo12345 wrote:Nick Bases wrote:Gad reel stopped half stride as he heard someone call out, turning around to see someone running towards him. "How did you get my weapon?" He asked"Saint Demetrius gave it to me, he said when you fell from your position after your MMM "accident" at the gardens, he took it before anyone noticed it and kept it hidden. He was the one who ordered your release and truth to be told, it was easy under what's going on to release a prisoner on grounds of needing help. All we ask is that you be a spy for us and be our eyes/ears, and you can have your mighty weapon back" Saint Vincent said"If you want my help, I'd suggest you refrain from mentioning the incident and take me to this 'Saint Demetrius'" Gad reel responded, straightening his back Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:Thorn barely dodged the sword, but just barely, and stumbled back. "Not bad, but what are you going to do now?" The skeleton did a quick lunge and swung his sword to the side, aiming for his shoulder. Kai looked on at the two, and gave a brief sigh. "It always amazes me in how you always have to test newcomers skills. But I can't blame you, you have never fought a saint before." Several of the Wyvern squads found vampires and killed a great deal of them. One group found out some information to make the search area shorter. "Inform the others, including master." A wyvern with a message attached to it flew towards Kai. Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:Thorn barely dodged the sword, but just barely, and stumbled back. "Not bad, but what are you going to do now?" The skeleton did a quick lunge and swung his sword to the side, aiming for his shoulder. Kai looked on at the two, and gave a brief sigh. "It always amazes me in how you always have to test newcomers skills. But I can't blame you, you have never fought a saint before." Several of the Wyvern squads found vampires and killed a great deal of them. One group found out some information to make the search area shorter. "Inform the others, including master." A wyvern with a message attached to it flew towards Kai. Jude quickly dodged the strike, his saint senses telling him where Thorn would try to hit him. He quickly found his sword lying on the ground and started to run for it. As he ran, he took a dagger and made it visible. He ran to Thorn, pretending to try to strike him and at the last minute abandon his dagger attack and dive for his sword. But as he started to run, he felt something weird, something that made his senses dull. What was that? Didn't matter he thought, I don't need my saint senses for this plan Nick Bases wrote:Kosovo12345 wrote:"Saint Demetrius gave it to me, he said when you fell from your position after your MMM "accident" at the gardens, he took it before anyone noticed it and kept it hidden. He was the one who ordered your release and truth to be told, it was easy under what's going on to release a prisoner on grounds of needing help. All we ask is that you be a spy for us and be our eyes/ears, and you can have your mighty weapon back" Saint Vincent said"If you want my help, I'd suggest you refrain from mentioning the incident and take me to this 'Saint Demetrius'" Gad reel responded, straightening his back Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:Thorn barely dodged the sword, but just barely, and stumbled back. "Not bad, but what are you going to do now?" The skeleton did a quick lunge and swung his sword to the side, aiming for his shoulder. Kai looked on at the two, and gave a brief sigh. "It always amazes me in how you always have to test newcomers skills. But I can't blame you, you have never fought a saint before." Several of the Wyvern squads found vampires and killed a great deal of them. One group found out some information to make the search area shorter. "Inform the others, including master." A wyvern with a message attached to it flew towards Kai." Here" Saint Vincent said as he threw the sword to him." If you follow me, I will show you where Demetrius is" and with that, Vincent started to fly to the Saint HQ and making sure there were no enemy forces in a 5-mile radius. Thorn attempted to dodge the knife, only to find it to be a faux attack. "You dirty son of a-" He was cut off by seeing the saint go for his sword. Then did not give chase and just stood their, watching the saint like a vulture staring at a dying carcass. A screech of a wyvern was heard by Kai and Thorn, and they both looked at the source. It was a smaller creature, smaller than what the skeletons would ride on. It had a message attached to its neck, and it had a red cape attached to it, signifying it was a messenger. "Thorn, stop this fight, we have a messenger." As the smaller creature landed, Kai looked at the message it was carrying. The dragon gave out a small laugh at how quickly this was going. "Saints, we are getting close to finding this vessel of yours. I think that we should have it by the end of the day." Then Kai added onto it as he lifted his head to aim straight up, "Cover your ears boys." and gave out yet another loud roar. The skeletons having each received the message, started to narrow their search area, becoming more and more ruthless to those that they found in order to find their target. Empire of the Rising Moon wrote:Thorn attempted to dodge the knife, only to find it to be a faux attack. "You dirty son of a-" He was cut off by seeing the saint go for his sword. Then did not give chase and just stood their, watching the saint like a vulture staring at a dying carcass. A screech of a wyvern was heard by Kai and Thorn, and they both looked at the source. It was a smaller creature, smaller than what the skeletons would ride on. It had a message attached to its neck, and it had a red cape attached to it, signifying it was a messenger. "Thorn, stop this fight, we have a messenger." As the smaller creature landed, Kai looked at the message it was carrying. The dragon gave out a small laugh at how quickly this was going. "Saints, we are getting close to finding this vessel of yours. I think that we should have it by the end of the day." Then Kai added onto it as he lifted his head to aim straight up, "Cover your ears boys." and gave out yet another loud roar. The skeletons having each received the message, started to narrow their search area, becoming more and more ruthless to those that they found in order to find their target. Once he heard that, Saint Jude let a sigh escape. He saw how quick Thorn was and didn't think he could have gone on much longer. But he was more relieved that the vessel was so close to hand." Then what are we waiting for? Let's find it" and with that, Jude quickly nodded at Thorn and went to the Saint HQ, to tell Demetrius they were getting closer." Well, I stay here and help with whatever you need" and with that, Saint Jorge got himself cozy in his little area he made during the fight

The Jaws of Perdition (IC OPEN )|rating:3.0

A New Beginning [OOC] Sci-Fi

Welcome to the IOC thread for 'A New Beginning', where you are free to role-play anything you like within this universe and the timeline and genre set out. Read the IC thread for the background and specifications. This is a sexual RP, but I expect to see a 60% plot and 40% sex consistency if you can do that. Otherwise, more plot less sex. IC thread - - for ease of navigation. And you can talk about the plot here or anything that comes to your mind. Please fill out this form and post it in this thread. I will read through and post if it is accepted or declines. I'll also provide a reason if it is declined so you can try again. Thank you! Applications Characters: Human please, so far we have not run into any alien species apart from bacteria and plant life. Profession: Any that would be on Earth...grocer, baker, candlestick maker...production worker, housewife etc. You can also be a UA Consulate Officer, a UA Security Officer (cop), a UA Medical Officer (doctor/surgeon), a UA Educational Officer (teacher) etc., you see the pattern. Another option is being one of the UA Navy, Marines, Air Force or Army. The UA Navy patrols the space around the three planets and the shipping lanes between. They also monitor the Jump Stations (location for faster than light to be initiated due created energy fields). The UA Marines are on board Navy vessels in case of conflicts. UA Air Force monitors the airspace on the planets, and also is on the Navy vessels in case of space warfare. The Army is a planet bound/expeditionary branch mainly. Appearance Your clothing will be light colored, and made of synthetic materials. Apart from that there isn't much restriction. However, I would like any military clothing to be similar to the out-of-armor Mass Effect uniform. I will allow minor augmentation, such as a bionic eye replacement, bionic hand. But only one per character. Weapons Current technology covers old projectile weapons, but they are collectors items, and instead we use highly developed case-less projectile weapons as well as a small amount of pulse rifles. Not phasers or anything, but very similar to Battlestar Galactica weaponry and fighters. Same with our Navy battleships. --Sgt; Just fill in the basic form below and post it here. Lt;-- Code: [b]Username: [/b] [b]Name: [/b] [b]Age: [/b] [b]Height: [/b] [b]Weight: [/b] [b]Profession: [/b] [b]Weapon: [/b] (Pistol, rifle, knife etc....) [b]Appearance: [/b] [b]History: [/b] WAIT TO GET ACCEPTED BEFORE ROLE PLAYING!​ Accepted Profiles​ [size=-2]Username: Dormant Evil Name: Vivian Knox Age: 25 Height: 5'6" Weight: 145lbs Profession: UA Navy, Commander of the FANS Veracity. Weapons: FANS Veracity - CZ52 pistol - Beretta CX4 Storm - Appearance: History: Vivian Knox was born to a military father and a civilian mother on board one of the UA Medical vessels in the 'Carolina Solar System'. During her childhood she showed much promise in physical sports and this helped to channel her endless energy. When she reached high school her grades suffered because she wanted to be outside enjoying the day, like many children. Her father enlisted her in a Higher Minds program funded by the UA when she was 13 and Vivian was sent away to an undisclosed location. She returned home at 18, focused and beyond her childhood wanderings. Her scores in those five years had changed from bare passes to the top 5%, and her physical training had been focused on defense and offense rather than kicking a ball around the yard. She was one of the UA Chosen. A highly classified program that helped any child turn into a highly intelligent, superior, strong adult, for the betterment of mankind. There were a few side effects she returned with, including rapid thoughts, occasional migraines and a distaste for fatty, salty or sugary foods. The migraines were treated with a tablet once per day, but the rapid thoughts made it difficult for her to sleep, and the bookshelves in her quarters were quickly becoming full of ramblings and possible inventions or developments. Battle tactics, new medical breakthroughs, how to play Football to win, from top secret to everyday ideas. They said it was because her brain had accepted the neural graphs perfectly, something very few other candidates had achieved. And her neural pathways were running at a much higher rate than a normal human. It was for the good of mankind. When she turned 18, they progressed her through officer academy, and she worked her way to Commander of her own battleship. They were the spearhead of the UA Fleet, run by Admiral Adolf Parnassus. Now, just turning 25, she is the youngest Commander in the Fleet. The program will remain a secret, and finding out these secrets will happen during her, and your journey. [/size] Click to expand... [size=-2]Username: DEA M Smith Name: DEA H Knight Age: 21 Height: 6' Weight: 200 10 pounds over the Navy wight limit but overlook by height and body fat only at 2% Profession: Navy SEAL Weapon: Pistol: Desert Eagle Specifications Weight Mark VII 1,766 g (3.9 lb) (.357 MAGNUM) 1,897 g (4.2 lb) (.44 MAGNUM) Mark XIX 1,998.6 g (4.4 lb) Length Mark VII 10.6 in (269.2 mm) (6in barrel) Mark XIX 10.75 in (273.1 mm) (6in barrel) 14.75 in (374.7 mm) (10in barrel) Barrel length 6 in (152.4 mm) 10 in (254.0 mm) Cartridge .357 Magnum .41 Magnum .44 Magnum .440 Carbon .50 Action Express Action Gas-operated Effective range 200 meters (.50 AE) Feed system Detachable box magazine; capacities: 9 rounds (.357) 8 rounds (.41 and .44) 7 rounds (.440 Carbon and .50AE) Rifle: M14 rifle Weight Lt;------Sgt; 11.5 lb (5.2 kg) Length Lt;------Sgt; 46.5 in (1,181 mm) Barrel lengthily;-Sgt; 22 in (559 mm) Cartridge;----Sgt; 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester) Action;------Sgt; Gas-operated, rotating bolt Rate of firefly;--Sgt; 700–750 rounds/min Muzzle velocity 850 m/s (2,800 ft/s) Effective range Lt;----Sgt; 460 m (500 yd)[4] 800+ m (875+ yd) (with optics) Feed system;--Sgt; 20-round detachable box magazine Sights;----Sgt; Aperture rear sight, "Barleycorn" front sight Top weapon use .408 They TAC Sniper rifle Specifications Parent case .505 Gibbs Case type Rimless, bottleneck Bullet diameter .408 in (10.4 mm) Neck diameter .438 in (11.1 mm) Shoulder diameter .601 in (15.3 mm) Base diameter .637 in (16.2 mm) Rim diameter .640 in (16.3 mm) Rim thickness .065 in (1.7 mm) Case length 3.04 in (77 mm) Overall length 4.307 in (109.4 mm) Case capacity 159 gr H2O (10.335 cm³) Rifling twist 1 in 13 in (330.2 mm) Primer type Large Rifle Maximum pressure Appearance: History: DEA was a small boy when he lost everything in the war. Now a Navy SEAL he has become one of the highest ranking seals after many months he has been giving a time he needs alone and a new job. Now he has been going to other world and Meeting others as he does his work and keeping the people safe. As he comes and goes he meets a girl and tries to start something but only knowing way he does not know what to do.[/size] Click to expand... [size=-2]Username: Knight713 Name: Kris Ruslan (his presumed name) often codenames the Glimmer man Age: 22 Height: 5’10 Weight: 180 without exoskeleton suit, 200 with it Profession: Former special forces sniper, hired to do black ops or other missions, UA Security officer it is unknown why he still has the rank of LT since he left the military. Weapon: He has various weapons in his house which he is authorized by the government to own (maximum of three). He also has a small collection of collectable guns (a part of the maximum three, or have had their chambers welded shut). Sniper Rifle Heckler camp; Koch SL8-1 Commercial rifle - illegally modified version which has a select fire feature. It has a ZF 7x10° dual optical sight or a/PVS-10 day/night optic scope. It can be fitted with a silencer it has been modified to fire semi-automatic or three round burst. Image- Submachine guns Camp;K MP5KC-(case less) which is fitted inside a special made briefcase with a silencer, 9mm, 9mm HV (high velocity) case less (he only uses this as an assassins tool) it also has a folding skeleton stock. Image-Brief Case-FN P90M7 (The seventh Model) it has an Aim point CompM7 sight, can be equipped with a silencer, 5.7x28mm, and a 5.7x28mm HV Case less (High Velocity) illegal for any civilian to own. Image-Pistols Heckler camp; Koch P30M70 (2170)- (its based on the P30 design) (it has a Phase III Laser Aiming Module) (which is a green laser sight), it is also fitted with a compensator Image-Heckler camp; Koch USP9 Compact-(He uses this gun as a back-up) it is an updated version of the USP compact made to fire 9mm caseless rounds Image- Augmentation- wears an experimental powered exoskeleton suit. It slightly increases his strength and speed. Unlike others, it came medium-sized visors that have the HUD to it. It will stop small arms fire but anything larger may pierce it. . The suit never made it to full production, since it was, made to fit that one person. Thus, the military opted for a different model Appearance: IN Black Watch- UA Security COP uniform-Undercover/Civilian-History: It is unknown what he did before, but many have speculated that he served in a IN military unit that still opposed the UA. There known as the black watch, it was because of the black uniforms. They were able to hold off the UA for a short time before long they had to surrender. At the time he was serving he was only at the age of 16. He is a top rate sniper taking shots no one would take. It is unknown when he started to work with the UA, but he turned up on there side. Many stated that a female changed his mind. Since then, he served in various Special Forces mostly serving with the Navy SEALs as a sniper. Which many of them respected his skills, even his ability to get in close and kill the assigned target? He soon left the military, pulling jobs for the UA government and a few solo jobs, which the UA do not mind. He is currently serving as UA Security officer on many different ships one who checks ships crew and passengers for criminals or stowaways. Furthermore, he would like to meet the girl again, who changed his mind. Furthermore, he was only 17 at the times and she figured to be 20 or so. Furthermore, he claimed she left a great impression on him as to what he will not say. Furthermore, he also designed the USES (unmanned Sniper weapon system) which many members of the military use. When he meets police officials or members of the military, the more experienced people often call him a government man. Because he uses a newly made HV round it has yet to be fully adopted by the military and police forces only special organizations use it. If not careful it will damage the breach and make it lock up. This is only if the person fires it on full auto. At times if they come to a planet to explore and the seals are sent out he will at times company them on the ships captains order.[/size] Click to expand... [[OPEN]]​Stupid minimum to write to post requirement.... just saw your add and was wondering if your still in need of someone.? Do I pm you or wait? Just fill out the form and post it here, unless you feel better sending it by PM. And we need plenty of people, so the more, the merrier! Okay here it goes hope you like it Username: DEA M Smith Name: DEA H Knight Age: 21Height: 6'Weight: 200 10 pounds over the Navy wight limit but overlook by height and body fat only at 2%Profession: Navy Seal Weapon:Pistol: Desert EagleSpecificationsWeight Mark VII1,766 g (3.9 lb) (.357 MAGNUM)1,897 g (4.2 lb) (.44 MAGNUM)Mark XIX1,998.6 g (4.4 lb)Length Mark VII10.6 in (269.2 mm) (6in barrel)Mark XIX10.75 in (273.1 mm) (6in barrel)14.75 in (374.7 mm) (10in barrel)Barrel length 6 in (152.4 mm)10 in (254.0 mm)Cartridge.357 Magnum.41 Magnum.44 Magnum.440 Carbon.50 Action Express Action Gas-operated Effective range 200 meters (.50 AE)Feed system Detachable box magazine; capacities:9 rounds (.357)8 rounds (.41 and .44)7 rounds (.440 Carbon and .50AE)Rifle:M14 rifle Weight 11.5 lb (5.2 kg)Length 46.5 in (1,181 mm)Barrel length 22 in (559 mm)Cartridge 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester)Action Gas-operated, rotating bolt Rate of fire 700–750 rounds/min Muzzle velocity 850 m/s (2,800 ft/s)Effective range 460 m (500 yd)[4] 800+ m (875+ yd) (with optics)Feed system 20-round detachable box magazine Sights Aperture rear sight, "Barleycorn" front sight Top weapon use.408 They TAC Sniper rifleSpecificationsParent case .505 Gibbs Case type Rimless, bottleneck Bullet diameter .408 in (10.4 mm)Neck diameter .438 in (11.1 mm)Shoulder diameter .601 in (15.3 mm)Base diameter .637 in (16.2 mm)Rim diameter .640 in (16.3 mm)Rim thickness .065 in (1.7 mm)Case length 3.04 in (77 mm)Overall length 4.307 in (109.4 mm)Case capacity 159 gr H2O (10.335 cm³)Rifling twist 1 in 13 in (330.2 mm)Primer type Large Rifle Maximum pressure Appearance: {"light box_close": "Close", "light box_next": "Next", "light box_previous": "Previous", "light box_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "light box_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "light box_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "light box_full_screen": "Full screen", "light box_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "light box_download": "Download", "light box_share": "Share", "light box_zoom": "Zoom", "light box_new_window": "New window", "light box_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"} History:DEA was a small boy when he lost everything in the war. Now a Navy SEAL he has become one of the highest ranking seals after many months he has been giving a time he needs alone and a new job. Now he has been going to other world and Meeting others as he does his work and keeping the people safe. As he comes and goes he meets a girl and tries to start something but only knowing way he does not know what to do. This is a literate RP, so if you can go through and double-check your profile, and anything you post in future it would be greatly appreciated. I like to use Firefox spelling and grammar check, or you can run it through MS Word. Also, we'll assume that the Desert Eagle uses a case-less ammunition since it's the year 2170, but it has kept its name for historic value. The M16 will be the same, as will the They TAC, we'll call it the same thing just to keep it simple, but it will use a case-less ammunition. So both will have increased magazine capacity. Add five more rounds to each of those. Now, they will be made out of lighter materials, so half the weights as well. And add another 20% to range. That should do you. Edit your profile, and just put new specifications in square brackets beside the current ones, so people can see it. Then I'll check it again and see how you did. Sorry but can you tell me what you want me to do? I ran it by spell check and everything seem fine. The weapons are okay by what you want, and what do you want me to add? Some words are wrong'll try to figure up a character Thanks for the input knight713 but I don't see anything wrong. Sorry if my grammar is not on PUR with your or anyone eras but I'll keep working on it. I might join in on this... Naismith said: Thanks for the input knight713 but I don't see anything wrong. Sorry if my grammar is not on PUR with your or anyone eras but I'll keep working on it. Click to expand... your have her which I think you men the and mouths which it should be months IO see. Okay. It's the small stuff that's always passing me thanks again, DormantEvilfor military having a powered exoskeleton suit like the one off of Metal Gear Solid 2 or the cyborg ninja suit be alright. For a weapon will the H&K G11 be what you are thinking about for caseless rounds This might help.... You mentioned BSG: Site: and for some perspective: I may have a character up shortly just going over it Yeah, it was mainly grammar or using the incorrect words DEA. And those reference links to Battle star Galactic weapons is perfect. Thank you Jagged. For weapons, just imagine current day stuff for us, but modified out of better materials, with larger magazines, they don't jam or overheat as easy and they are lighter and stronger. And H&K weapons are perfect for this, just case-less of course. And exomoons can be acceptable, but they would only be used for damage protection (no shields), such as reinforced Kevlar or stronger weave through the material. They would be airtight for planetary exploration, with helmets that have a HUD and internal filtration system. Some temperature regulation is fine. Zak, you are welcome to join. And I can't wait to see your profile Knight. I will put my profile up now, I forgot last night due to my sleep-deprived state. OH! And update....anytime I refer to neighboring Galaxy's I meant Solar Systems...and I'll be editing the IC threads to show this. My knowledge of how space is arranged sucks to be honest. So we have weapons and clothing of Battlestar Galactica, Mass Relays to get from Solar System to Solar System, from Mass Effect, and a sort of Metal Gear Solid Exomoon. Great questions! This is just a thought would cap, and ball guns be considered primitive caseless or not I like my photo it fits the role play nicely.Also, I wanted to ask what eras do I need to fix. Thanks for the help. I'm interested and I know some guns but not to the specs y'all do. Is that going to be an issue. Google your guns and then Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia it, and you will get everything you need La_Ran said: I'm interested and I know some guns but not to the specs y'all do. Is that going to be an issue. Click to expand... Yeah, this is my issue too... Will those detailed stats actually matter in the RP? Also trying to figure out what sort of role I should play... I'm a Navy SEAL from an old way that's young. Are there still positions open? Bardrhyn1 said: Are there still positions open? Click to expand... i believe so I think everything looks good if not I'll edit it Username: Knight713Name: Kris Ruslan (his presumed name) often codenames the Glimmer manage: 22Height: 5’10Weight: 180 without exoskeleton suit, 200 with it Profession: former special forces sniper, hired to do black ops or other missions, UA Security officer it is unknown why he still has the rank of LT since he left the military Weapon: he has various weapons in his house which he is authorized by the government to own. He also has a small collection of collectable guns Sniper Rifle Heckler & Koch SL8-1 Commercial rifle - illegally modified version which has a select fire feature. It has a ZF 7x10° dual optical sight or a/PVS-10 day/night optic scope. It can be fitted with a silencer it has been modified to fire semi-automatic or three round burst. Image- gunship;K MP5KC-(case less) which is fitted inside a special made briefcase with a silencer, 9mm, 9mm HV (high velocity) case less (he only uses this as an assassins tool) it also has a folding skeleton stock.Image-Case- P90M7(The seventh Model) it has an Aim point CompM7 sight, can be equipped with a silencer, 5.7x28mm, and a 5.7x28mm HV Case less (High Velocity) illegal for any civilian to own. Image-& amp; Koch P30M70(2170)- (its based on the P30 design) (it has a Phase III Laser Aiming Module) (which is a green laser sight), it is also fitted with a compensator Image- & Koch USP9 Compact-(He uses this gun as a back-up) it is an updated version of the USP compact made to fire 9mm caseless rounds Image- wears an experimental powered exoskeleton suit. It slightly increases his strength and speed. Unlike others, it came medium-sized visors that have the HUD to it. It will stop small arms fire but anything larger may pierce it. . The suit never made it to full production, since it was, made to fit that one person. Thus, the military opted for a different model Appearance:IN Black Watch-Security COP uniform- it is unknown what he did before, but many have speculated that he served in A IN military unit that still opposed the UA. There known as the black watch, it was because of the black uniforms. They were able to hold off the UA for a short time before long they had to surrender. At the time he was serving he was only at the age of 16, He is a top rate sniper taking shots no one would take. It is unknown when he started to work with the UA, but he turned up on there side. Many stated that a female changed his mind. Since then, he served in various Special Forces mostly serving with the Navy SEALs as a sniper. Which many of them respected his skills, even his ability to get in close and kill the assigned target? He soon left the military, pulling jobs for the UA government and a few solo jobs, which the UA do not mind. He is currently serving as UA Security officer on many different ships one who checks ships crew and passengers for criminals or stowaways. Furthermore, he would like to meet the girl again, who changed his mind. Furthermore, he was only 17 at the times and she figured to be 20 or so. Furthermore, he claimed she left a great impression on him as to what he will not say. Furthermore, he also designed the USES (unmanned Sniper weapon system) which many members of the military use. When he meets police officials or members of the military, the more experienced people often call him a government man. Because he uses a newly made HV round it has yet to be fully adopted by the military and police forces only special organizations use it. If not careful it will damage the breach and make it lock up. This is only if the person fires it on full auto. At times if they come to a planet to explore and the seals are sent out he will at times company them on the ships captains order You guys have probably done the maximum I'd accept weapon specification wise. As long as you know it's name, what sort of ammunition it fires (9mm, 7.62 etc.) and how many rounds you get before you have to reload I'll be more than happy with that. For the most part, I'd hope that weapons just show your characters personality and profession and that they won't be used that much. This would be different for those Ring military though, because only when in the Fleet, or in one of the rural town will gun or weapons be allowed. The cities are strict as, and all stairwells and elevators have advanced weapon and narcotic sensors. With lock down and probably a possible sleep gas dispensed, then the security for the building will meet you on the next floor. I'm not worried about how specific you are with guns. As long as you don't carry a pistol around, and suddenly you start firing with an assault rifle you haven't specified you had. Apart from that it's all good. And if you don't know much about guns just specify if it's a pistol, assault rifle, submachine gun, or long range rifle and we'll be fine. So, I guess you would like to know my basic thoughts as to where this will be going. There will be character development for a while, figure out what your characters are like, and we'll probably meet up along the way either on Earth, APROCA or Rush. I plan on making a main bar/entertainment venue for each capital city. After this, some civilians will begin to disappear, and I'll give each of you some information through PM's that you can piece together at some point to discover the conspiracy that the UA is covering up. Then it will be up to you whether you want to fight the UA, or turn a blind eye. At the same time we can talk about possible side plots in the outskirts, or you can feel free to entertain yourselves exploring the cities and space. Sound like a plan?EDIT: I did make a few edits and editions to your profile Knight (mainly reducing weapons stored at your house - which will be in the large apartment buildings that house up to 10,000 people depending on their status e.g. single, partnered, with children, retired.) just a questing Would the cities cops be armed with guns, if they are would it be possible that all cops, security officers, special agents badges have built in microchips. Once a person steps in it will scan the badge to see if they are allowed to have a gun. If they are the elevator will continue on its way if not gas will be pumped in. Or it can be a facial scanner and will compare it to a list of people who are licensed to carry a gun. The only way to bypass the sensors and scanners is that a person must have a hammer. Which only well organized criminal organizations will have.Also, if it is a group of people and one is armed how will the security know who is armed will they have to search them while they are knocked out.I can add more info to the guns if you want, for EX, mag capacity, RPM, caliber and so on. I'm working on a post, and it will be up shortly Let's make it a microchip inserted in random spots around the body, and their records match the location and number to their files. And yes, the Security can carry weapons, but you'll notice the limit of three I've mentioned in your profile. If there are multiple people in the elevator, and someone who isn't authorized such as a Security officer has a gun then to be extra safe (and to avoid elevator fire fights) the lot get gassed, but the effects wear off in half an hour. The hammer idea is a good one, but run it by me if you wanted to have one. Security don't need one, but civilians and military off ship might. You have to have a story for it though. Don't worry about the specs so much, but you are allowed 25% more range, another 5 rounds per mag due to the case-less ammunition (not sure if it would be more), and take 25% off its weight. This is to show the better materials/advancement in some aspects. I'll put a post up their now. And people can be in different places as well... Rush, APROCA, Earth or Space. But if you have ever played Mass Effect we'll team up first, then planet jump. I saw that and I'll stick to the two pistols and the FN P90. Also will their be like androids, synod (female version of the androids) Later on, maybe. But for now we'll leave it as assistance robots, no AI, just programmed for specific duties. Oh, and read my post in the IC thread. Everyone uses badge comm devices. Star Trek like, but they look more like rectangle bars with a small keypad interface and speaker port. Security and Military models have a built-in camera to record any actions, for evidence at trials or to add to records or debriefing reports. Knight, if you want, I'll include a mission to check out a disturbance in one of the residential buildings, or where you work. Edit: And for the other weapons you listed that can't be stored at home, they can be stored in the Security Detail Armory in the building. The post I'm working on now has it where him and his new partner are after two crooks who robbed the Ambassador and his wife. They could have killed an undercover navy official that was with them. They also killed a police officer who tried to stop them. They could part of the IN which it could go in hand with your post for the military enrollment Try to work on your writing a bit, It's really hard to understand what you just wrote. So the crooks killed the undercover Navy official and the cop that tried to stop them, and they may be a part of the IN? This would be a great place to start. They could have stolen a data file along the way that holds some dark secrets of the UA. yes that's what i meet, the item they could have stolen is the navy's officer football which stores secret information. I agree. So UA Security will be on site when the UA Military arrives. And I'll call upon your prior military experience to join the team. PM me any specifics that would be on your file, that only a data scan by the military would show up. I will Username:La_Banana:Jesse Love Age:32Height:5'6Weight:135Profession: UA Army Special Forces Squad Leader Weapons:Standard Issued Twin Golden Desert Eagles (with black hearts painted on the handles), 5 combat knives, each hidden on her body. Appearance: {"light box_close": "Close", "light box_next": "Next", "light box_previous": "Previous", "light box_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "light box_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "light box_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "light box_full_screen": "Full screen", "light box_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "light box_download": "Download", "light box_share": "Share", "light box_zoom": "Zoom", "light box_new_window": "New window", "light box_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"} Jesse is of African American descent. Her hair is dark brown with natural blond highlights. Her eyes are black, not dark brown; black. History: Jesse's parents were both in the UA Army. They raised their only daughter with a firm, strict, upbringing. They even took time out of schooling to have her play in the 'war games'. Jesse was a happy child and her both her parents loved her very, very much. It was natural for her to want to join the army. She rose through the ranks quickly and was an exceptional soldier. She followed orders to a T; including the one that ordered her to blow up an orphanage with kids inside. Furthermore, she didn't hesitate. Jessi has been in charge of squads for as long as she can remember. Some of her subordinates think she's crazy and most love her, even if they fear her. She has saved more than one member of her squad by running towards danger. Because of this tendency to disregard her own survival instincts she has been under psychic (not the word I want) evaluation. She has been stationed to the ship to help with security until they can clear her to active duty. Jessi feels caged and restless. She's ready for combat.(I didn't put what kind of ammo the guns take because I assume bullets. I wasn't sure if that was all truly necessary) I think I'll bow out of this I'm not sure if I can keep up. All of you are masters of the long post and I don't want to mess your Role play up pm me on what you think thanks every one and sorry about me wasting your time. Hey all, I was looking for a new RP to get involved with and this seems pretty interesting. I've included a profile here below, let me know if there's anything that needs changing. Username: detonate: Angus Bailey Age: 27Height: 5' 10"Weight: 170lbsProfession: Captain/pilot of the independent trading ship Bouncing Betty Weapon: Smith & Wesson Model 686 pistol - Type 84S rifle - Generally unkempt at the best of times, Angus has light brown hair, blues eyes and usually sports a few days' worth of facial hair. When on a job he'll usually don a jumpsuit, but when out to impress he throws on a cheap suit. History: Angus Bailey was a restless youth who never truly excelled at anything. While physically fit and a keen athlete, he could never achieve the sort of success in the classroom that he could on the field. There aren't many job prospects for someone whose primary talent is the ability to run very fast, so one way or another Angus found himself in the Army. Why a young man with little respect for authority thought he could be successful in the armed forces, we may never know. It should come as little surprise that Angus was soon given a dishonorable discharge after starting a drunken fight with his commanding officer. Drifting aimlessly for a few years, he took a job on board the Bouncing Betty, a flying junk heap owned by an old coot named Jim James. Perhaps Jim saw something of himself in the young man, or perhaps he just saw a sucker ripe for exploitation, but when the old man announced his retirement two years ago he happily sold the ship to Angus. Angus has been piloting the ship ever since, occasionally taking on extra crew when he can afford to. He accepts any job, no questions asked, as long as the money is good. This does, inevitably, cause him some problems with UA authorities, as much for the numerous health and safety failings of his ship as the less than legal status of some of his cargo. Regardless, Angus has managed to stay in the sky thanks to his wits, cunning and simple good luck. Welcome! Both of those profiles look fine, and I can work in your characters nicely. Here is a picture of the VTOL aircraft. Most ships will be based off this, but they use a much more efficient engine than VTOL aircraft today, so they can go faster, fly for longer and maneuver better. This just gives you an idea of the ship design. These will be used my UA Security, and UA Military as their shuttles. I'll add those two profiles up now. La_Ran - I'll probably send word to my ship for your team to be brought down, so that you can join us.deep - You could either harbor people we are after, or we could use your ship to enter the outskirts as undercover IN. Up to you depending on how you want to play it. Dea, I'm sorry to see you go. As long as you can do two paragraphs that are literate I am more than happy to have you here. Only two? I have seen like 5 from you guys and don't want to mess up but if my bio is okay then I'll post. Will the security units also be armed with less lethal weaponry, like sticky rounds fired from a shotgun or grenade launcher that once the target is hit they are covered in sticky goo and can't break out of it, stun batons or stun gloves and so on. I'm looking more for good writing rather than half a page worth of text. If you write using a spelling and grammar check, and read through your post before submitting it then I'll be glad to have you on the team. I'm removing the post length limit everyone. But I'd hope at least two paragraphs can be maintained. Knight, read through your post for errors. Mainly extra letters on words (e.g. glade should be glad), leaving out words, and your punctuation. I can be annoying about helping people improve their writing. I'll try not to nitpick, but I hope everyone will be a better Per for it in the end. Knight, you can have them use non lethal as well. But for serious situations they can carry lethal rounds. Sweet okay can you tell me what's going on so far? Okay I'll go back through it Dormant Evil said: deep - You could either harbor people we are after, or we could use your ship to enter the outskirts as undercover IN. Up to you depending on how you want to play it. Click to expand... Either sounds good. My character's not someone to allow personal politics to get in the way of a pay check, so as long as the money's good he's happy. I don't see why at least two paragraphs should be a problem for anyone. You'd be surprised how quickly your word count increases once you get into the flow. I'll try to have something up tomorrow. So far we've established that the UA Navy has a small contingent of ships in orbit around the cold planet APROCA. One shuttle with my character on it has gone down to the planet to speak with the Ambassador. He and his wife were just robbed by thieves, and they also killed a Navy Official to get the 'Football' containing all the military secrets that he was carrying. A Security Guard also died as the thieves made the getaway. UA Security (Knight) has been called to secure the area and catch the thieves, but they just found out that the UA Navy is sending a team (my team) in to deal with this situation since the Football has been stolen. I'm hoping I can get La_Ran in this RP by calling her team down as well. This is all happening in one of the large buildings in the city, upper decks I'd think. And we have word that the Ambassador may be coming down to view the scene at some point. That's about it so far. Edit - deep, feel free to be docked in the city, we'll find your character following the first or second clue if you want. I have not pick a part to do what do you think will be good for me? Hamm, you can already be in my team. That might be easier than putting you in an Army Special Forces team or calling anyone else in. Pick which guy you want to be in my team. The sniper (your rifle will be your spotter since advancements integrate the PDA device a Chalk uses into the HUD of your helmet), heavy gunner or rifleman. Knight will be a more designated marksman I think, providing lots of accurate fire within the group instead of setting up for that one important shot. We are currently flying down to land at the Embassy where we will be taken to meet with the Ambassador and his wife to learn what happened. What was taken during the robbery etc. Knight, do you mind if I RP the Ambassador? I just want to kill I'm A hot shoot. Lol I guess I can Be some Larger GN man or something That's fine with me. Just send me a pm or here in IOC stating that you called me down and my team...which is currently just a team of me at the moment. I should ghost-write some people. So I'll think of that. Also out of curiosity Knight: maybe I'm slow but why was your text in different colors. I assumed that was many people talking but I'm stupid I couldn't tell when you were talking or what was really going on. Can you dumb it down for me and clue me in? La_Ran the different color text shows different people talking, I'll in my next post if I have more than one person talking I'll stick to one color. Good ahead and play the ambassador i don't mind Dormant Evil So what was stolen from the Ambassador, and was the Navy Officer in a meeting with the Ambassador, or was he just walking around. They were meeting the navy official was showing him data files on test that were done to soldiers. The files hold many improvements to soldiers via cybernetic enhancements to euro implants in the brain to make them super soldiers that never disobey orders that they receive Username: AnothernobodyName: John P. Samson Age: 20Height: 5ft 10inWeight: 165 lbs Profession: Grocer Weapon: Nonappearance: A little blue with making jeans made from synthetic materials. History:John started working at the market at the age of 16. He loved the job so much that he decided that is what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. His parents have no say on how he lived his life. Seeing that they were gunned down on some far off plant. Most of his life he spends at work or in a book. Never makes time to talk to others nor do anything else. I have a question, how exactly would a civilian work in this kind of story? He could have seen the ones who robbed the ambassador run off to kittenofdeath said: I have a question, how exactly would a civilian work in this kind of story? Click to expand... To be honest, a few regular Joe's wouldn't go amiss. You can only have so many super-intelligent commandos with incredible strength, perfect aim and awe-inspiring agility before you find yourself in the Universe of Mary Sues. Deevo said: To be honest, a few regular Joe's wouldn't go amiss. You can only have so many super-intelligent commandos with incredible strength, perfect aim and awe-inspiring agility before you find yourself in the Universe of Mary Sues. Click to expand... To be honest, the character I was thinking of did have one of those, a real intelligent hacker type guy. Here is my profile awaiting approval. It seems kitten and I had a similar idea. Username: ListlessDMName: Jack Lineage: 21Height: 5’7”Weight: 150 lbs. Profession: Tech Specialist under Vivian Knox Weapon: Pocket Screwdriver Appearance: Jack grew up in the shadow of his father’s infamy, a one Milton Slave, hacker and entrepreneur extraordinaire. He grew up comfortable enough, though due to his father’s underhanded and shady dealings they were always on the move. Jack grew up with monitors and coding as his friends, he never had the experiences of a typical boy. Even before he could recall his father had sat him down in front of a computer and set him to work. It all came second nature to the child of Milton Slave, and all too soon Jack was working for his father full-time. That was until he turned eighteen. It was only a matter of time really before the UA found his family. Though Milton was a smart man and had the resources to move constantly; it was nothing compared to the technical and resourceful might of the UA. In a swift and brutal assault Jack’s world was torn asunder. His father lay dead, hunched over his monitor with several burning holes in his back. Jack had been shot as well, though it luckily was a clean shot through and through. Forcefully he was subdued and hauled off with the rest that weren’t killed outright. Whatever happened to the rest of his family Jack never knew, nor did he ever bother to look. He was given a chance few ever were (at least Jack likes to think so). Either work for the UA and leave his past in the dust, or die in some unmarked grave. Now given the choices…was there really any other choice he could make? Jack had loved his father and respected his abilities, but if he had learned anything from his father it was to take an opportunity when you could. Jack latched on and never looked back…though sometimes he regrets it. Looks good Listless. You'll be in charge of getting us access to locked areas if the UA Security can't let us in. You'll keep track of any information and store the verbal and visual happenings of the team on your data pad etc. Furthermore, you'll be in charge of assessing how our weapons and suits are doing, and repairing anything if you can. You'll also be our communications expert and someone that will get us maps, so we know the blueprints of any places we go to, and you'll have access to resources and information we need along the way. IN hide-outs. Legally for now, but you have the ability to do it the non-legal way as well. Maybe later we'll need that. Alright sounds good. I should be able to get a post out in the IC thread later today. Knight, I'm giving Listless the okay to run the facial recognition of the three Thames. Listless, if you want you can make up a basic rep sheet for each and read it out off your data pad. Make at least on of the guys have IN connections. A protest maybe, or just siblings...they could even have someone from back before the nuclear war in their ancestor. That way we can follow some leads to track that guy down. Knight said that 'two were males and the third one looked female. However, with the hairstyle and the way she dressed she could have past for a male.' I don't mind which one has a connection, or if all three do, that can be up to you. La Reina, if you want, you can have your team on assignment in the outskirts. Underground bunkers used before the climate on the planet was stabilized can be holding small pockets of 'homeless' and 'IN' and people who just don't want to conform. Kill anyone who fires upon you, arrest and detain anyone else. We'll hook up together soon, but this can be your opening post to show what you guys are doing. If you want, you can detain a brother or sister of one of the guys we'll be tracking down. Later, Listless can pick up their name flagged on the database, and we'll come to you. If that sounds okay I'm cool with you doing something like that. Well, here's a draft of my profile, let me know if there's any problems Username:KittenofdeathName: Isaac Wordage: 22Height: 6’Profession: undercover intelligence agent working for the UA (for now)Weapons: A knife built in to his arm, undetectable due to being indistinguishable from the rest of his arm. Augmentation: Right Arm: lost in a VTOL crash at a young age, total replacement, made from highly resistant materials capable of stopping bullets, provides no extra lifting strength but has a powerful grip, also hides a long knife deployable at the wrist. Head: Advanced neural implant integrated in to his mind, accessible either by direct connection (port located on the left side of neck) or wireless signal (kept disabled at most times due to risk of counter hacking) It is capable of interfacing with computer systems and depending on the level of security, different levels of control are possible, also includes a HUD and the same utilities as personal computers. Appearance: as an accidental pregnancy in a military family, Isaac never had it easy, both his parents resented him for ruining their careers, and when he was about 10 years old, he was involved in a VTOL crash caused by IN forces, his parents were there with him. As soon as the VTOL was going down, they abandoned him, everyone scrambled towards the exits, taking all the parachutes and saving themselves, nobody noticed the little kid still in his seat with no idea what was going on. His parents died, his father’s parachute failed, his mother was shot in midair, and he would have died to, but the pilot had stayed on board, determined to at least crash gracefully, the impact killed him and took Isaacs arm. Since he was still a minor and had no other family, he was left in government care, it was better than what he was used to, but not by much, the orphanage he was put in to was badly understaffed and had too many kids. The one thing that Isaac did enjoy was his physical therapy, since he had a new arm, he had to relearn how to use it. The fingers proved to be the hardest part for him, he could never get the pressure right, he would always either let things slip through his fingers or crush them by accident, they tried giving him an old computer to play with, thinking that using a keyboard would help, but all that lead to was him getting addicted to computers and one hell of a lot of broken keyboards. It wasn’t until one of his doctors brought in a little electric keyboard that he made any progress, he loved playing that keyboard so much that not only did he learn how to control his fingers he learned to play every song he could, within two years he was an expert. Even though he now had two things he liked doing, playing the piano and causing havoc with computers, life still sucked, the orphanage he was at was filled with kids that got there the same way as him, when their parents died because of IN forces, all of them were pissed off angry military brats and most of them were bigger than Isaac. Being the least liked kid in the orphanage made Isaac even more of an introvert than he already was, he gradually began to shy away from other people, and when he didn’t, he usually got beaten up, which just made him withdraw further in to his own little world. While the other kids were out playing, he was inside, reading, using his computer to research whatever subject popped in to his head that day, by the time he was thirteen, he was a genius for his age. When the workers at the orphanage realized this, they instantly used it as an excuse to get rid of him, they had him sent to a ‘higher minds’ program funded by the UA, happy to have gotten their numbers down by one. Isaac tried to leave when he was 15, he excelled on the academic side of things, and managed to pass when it came to the more physical aspects of the program, but if had to take one more order he would have snapped and done something very stupid and very bad. He tried the diplomatic way, simply asking to leave, it didn’t work, so he tried to leave on his own, they stopped him and made it quite clear that he was staying whether he liked it nor not. Since he couldn’t leave, he pushed on, he did his best and he let them think they had won, he played the part of the good little soldier, follow orders, salute, don’t ask questions, all that crap, while all the time cursing them under his breath and running on spite like it was a fuel source. When he was 18, he graduated, good god was he happy to be out of there, but then they told him he was going to be put through officers training as well, he gritted his teeth and thanked them for the opportunity, when they left, he punched the wall until his knuckles bled. He was forwarded on to another installation, there he was trained to work as an undercover intelligence agent, he hated it just as much as everything else, but the security there was even tighter than at the higher minds facility, and it was clear that they were more willing to just end him if he tried to run, so just like before, he had no choice. To date he has participated in two operations, both successful thanks to him, but in both he was monitored closely in both so he couldn’t find a way to get out. His current assignment promises to have a much better chance to finally be free though, infiltrate a IN cell and relay information, deep cover, low oversight by the UA, if nothing else he could always defect to the IN, at least they didn’t make him wear a uniform. Edit:Wow, that's longer than I thought it was, I haven't typed much lately. Sounds good to me! Pretty good Kitten, but I think I told the others earlier that we can only have one augmentation. The neural implant won't count because it has it's side effects. So the arm would be your augmentation if you wanted, but if you could edit to remove the chest augmentation that would be better. Just to avoid OP characters, sorry about that. And I'm glad you don't mind the task Ran, it should allow you to have a great amount of freedom with your character, yet still moving towards a converging plot. Edit: Nice post Ran. Dormant Evil said: Pretty good Kitten, but I think I told the others earlier that we can only have one augmentation. The neural implant won't count because it has it's side effects. So the arm would be your augmentation if you wanted, but if you could edit to remove the chest augmentation that would be better. Just to avoid OP characters, sorry about that. Click to expand... I don't mind, I only included it because I've never understood how a robotic arm could run off the energy created by the body alone, it just makes much more sense to me to have a power source built in somewhere. You can have a small power core in the arm, shoulder probably. You might have to recharge it once a week overnight though. I'm good how his post turned out, I made a slight Reference where he claims only to himself that she looks familiar. Your character could briefly hear him and have him stay in the elevator to ask him about it. While since the two of them are alone in the elevator As soon as you give names I can start my next post with a relative of some people we're looking for. Or a friend or something. The three thieves were, Hans Father (production line worker), Joseph Banks (spousal abuse/unemployed mechanic) and Jillian Uxbridge (housewife/related to old IN leader). Jillian Uxbridge would be your best bet I guess, her husband is a businessman so it might have to be a brother or sister you find. Or a parent, or offspring. The connection can be up to you depending on what you post needs. Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet. Thanks! Sorry for my lack of activity. I am having to take some time away from the computer at the moment. Feel free to have my character tag along if the party goes anywhere. I'll be back soon, a week, maybe. Do whatever you want with the plot although catching/tracking down those thieves should be a priority.NPC my character if you need any command influence if I am not back in time. Again, sorry. I'll be as quick as I can. Will do I may edit the post to make it longer somehow Hello again, anyone still open to continuing this RP? Reina - you can pick up the flagged ship if you want. Listless - you can get us a location and later on the interview Knight - you can RP the Ambassador, get geared up and meet on the roof Anyone else need to be involved that doesn't see an easy way?

A New Beginning [OOC] Sci-Fi|rating:3.0

Yu-Gi-Oh PbP_ Blue Ghost vs. Shades of Gray

The blue wizard walks into the arena once again. Hello. It seems you wish for a duel? I believe that I can give you one. A woman enters the arena. She is wearing a torn and tattered black regal dress that might have at one point looked beautiful. She looks at the Blue Ghost with an angry look, her red eyes visible under her long blond hair, dyed black in places. Furthermore, she sets up her pitch-black duel disk." I don't wish for a duel. I wish for vengeance."((Dark Ritual Deck please. For Plot reasons.))(1d20)[19](1d40)[32](1d39)[26](1d38)[20](1d37)[6](1d36)[16]Hand Spoiler Hide Mirror Force End of the World Jinn Releaser of Rituals Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment Ah, Queen Pyrrha. Good to see you. So you have come back for more? Very well, the lords of the pit shall always welcome new souls.(d20)[9](5d40)[32][35][36][6][35](144)(3d40)[22][14][17](53) "Queen Pyrrha? I'm surprised you recognize me since my soul was flung to hell and back." She grins." Revenge is sweet." She draws.(1d35)[18]"I summon Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands. I use his ability to add Ruin, Queen of Oblivion to my hand. I use Jinn Presided of Rituals and Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands to activate End of the World, to summon Ruin, Queen of Oblivion, whom I equip with the Cetus of Darla. Furthermore, I set a face down card as well. Now, face the end of the world!" Field:Ruin, Queen of Oblivion w/Cetus of Darla:2800/2000 (If it destroys a monster, it can attack again. If it deals life point damage, gain that many life points. When it destroys a monster by battle, controller draws one card.) Facedown Spell/Trap Card Hand (1)Spoiler Hide Jinn Releaser of rituals Face down: Mirror Force Graveyard (4)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals End of the World Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment ((It seems that End of the World says you need the exact level, which would be 8. I guess I'll let it pass, unless you want to redo that?))(d35)[15]I will Set a monster and another face-down card, and end my turn. Monsters:Face Down Spell/Traps:Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Book of Moon Call of the Haunted The Dark Creator Contract with the Abyss Face Down: Spoiler Hide Grave keeper’s Spy Mirror Force Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Relinquished 2. Relinquished 3. Dark Master – Zorn 4. Dark Master – Zorn 5. Demise, King of Armageddon 6. The Dark Creator 7. Dark lord Erato 8. Dark Armed Dragon 9. Jinn Presided of Rituals 10. Jinn Presided of Rituals 11. Jinn Presided of Rituals 12. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 13. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 14. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 15. Grave keeper’s Spy 16. Grave keeper’s Spy 17. D.D. Crow 18. D.D. Crow 19. Contract with the Abyss 20. Contract with the Abyss 21. Allure of Darkness 22. Allure of Darkness 23. Trade-In 24. Trade-In 25. Preparation of Rites 26. Scapegoat 27. Heavy Storm 28. Lightning Vortex 29. Book of Moon 30. Brain Control 31. Torrential Tribute 32. Bottomless Trap Hole 33. Bottomless Trap Hole 34. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Empty Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty ((Re-doing just means that I use Jinn Presided and Manju, instead of using all three. So you can special summon.))" Hahaha... I draw."(1d34)[5]"I summon Sent of the Thousand Hands, whose effect lets me add another Ruin, Queen of Oblivion to my hand. Now, Queen of Oblivion will attack your face down, followed by a direct attack and then Sent will attack directly."((4200 damage))Field: None Ruin, Queen of Oblivion.2800/2000. Can attack after destroying a monster. When it destroys a monster, draw a card. Senju:1400/1000Facedown Spell/Trap Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Jinn Releaser of rituals Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Face down: Mirror Force Graveyard (3)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals End of the World Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment I activate Mirror Force. You wish to rethink your move? "I do not. End turn." Field: NoneFacedown Spell/Trap Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Jinn Releaser of rituals Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Face down: Mirror Force Graveyard (5)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Sent of the Thousand Hands Ruin, Queen of Oblivion End of the World Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment My move.(d34)[2]I Flip Summon Grave keeper's Spy, who is a Special Summons another Grave keeper's Spy. Both will attack directly, and I will Set another card to end my turn. Monsters:Grave keeper's Spy (1200/2000)Grave keeper's Spy (1200/2000)Spell/Traps:Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted The Dark Creator Contract with the Abyss Relinquished Face Down: Spoiler Hide Book of Moon Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Relinquished 2. Dark Master – Zorn 3. Dark Master – Zorn 4. Demise, King of Armageddon 5. The Dark Creator 6. Dark lord Erato 7. Dark Armed Dragon 8. Jinn Presided of Rituals 9. Jinn Presided of Rituals 10. Jinn Presided of Rituals 11. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 12. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 13. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 14. Grave keeper’s Spy 15. D.D. Crow 16. D.D. Crow 17. Contract with the Abyss 18. Contract with the Abyss 19. Allure of Darkness 20. Allure of Darkness 21. Trade-In 22. Trade-In 23. Preparation of Rites 24. Scapegoat 25. Heavy Storm 26. Lightning Vortex 27. Book of Moon 28. Brain Control 29. Torrential Tribute 30. Bottomless Trap Hole 31. Bottomless Trap Hole 32. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Mirror Force Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "How entertaining. My face down is Mirror Force, destroying both of your monsters." A cruel smirk appears on Queen Pyrrha's face.(1d33)[9]"I set a face down Monster and end my turn." Field: NoneFacedown Monster (???/???) Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Air knight Pars hath Face down: Jinn Releaser of Rituals Graveyard (6)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Sent of the Thousand Hands Ruin, Queen of Oblivion End of the World Mirror Force Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment I respond to your Mirror Force with Book of Moon from my hand. One of my Spies is flipped face-down, protecting him from destruction. Monsters:Face Down Spell/Traps:Life Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted The Dark Creator Contract with the Abyss Relinquished Face Down: Spoiler Hide Grave keeper’s Spy Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Relinquished 2. Dark Master – Zorn 3. Dark Master – Zorn 4. Demise, King of Armageddon 5. The Dark Creator 6. Dark lord Erato 7. Dark Armed Dragon 8. Jinn Presided of Rituals 9. Jinn Presided of Rituals 10. Jinn Presided of Rituals 11. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 12. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 13. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 14. Grave keeper’s Spy 15. D.D. Crow 16. D.D. Crow 17. Contract with the Abyss 18. Contract with the Abyss 19. Allure of Darkness 20. Allure of Darkness 21. Trade-In 22. Trade-In 23. Preparation of Rites 24. Scapegoat 25. Heavy Storm 26. Lightning Vortex 27. Book of Moon 28. Brain Control 29. Torrential Tribute 30. Bottomless Trap Hole 31. Bottomless Trap Hole 32. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Mirror Force Book of Moon Grave keeper’s Spy Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty ((I ended my turn. It is your move. Unless you do nothing on your turn...)) My draw.(d32)[11]I Flip Summon again Grave keeper's Spy, who calls forth another Spy. The summon Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands, and use his effect to call Relinquished to my hand. Now, I activate Contract with the Abyss, offering up an image of Relinquished. Accept my sacrifice and hear my call. Wretched one from the Far Realms hailing, who devours the mind and enslaves the flesh, Come unto me! Relinquished! The familiar hexagram appears on the floor, and the portal to the Abyss opens. Warped and nightmarish images flash through it, and the phantasmal Relinquished appears, its body pulsating like a giant heart. Relinquished assimilates your face-down monster, and my Spies and Manju attack directly for 3800 damage. I will end my turn with a face-down card. Your move, Queen. Monsters:Grave keeper’s Spy (1200/2000)Grave keeper’s Spy (1200/2000)Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands (1400/1000)Relinquished(0/0)Spell/Traps:Face-down (monster equipped to Relinquished)Face-downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 1 Spoiler Hide The Dark Creator Face Down: Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Dark Master – Zorn 2. Dark Master – Zorn 3. Demise, King of Armageddon 4. The Dark Creator 5. Dark lord Erato 6. Dark Armed Dragon 7. Jinn Presided of Rituals 8. Jinn Presided of Rituals 9. Jinn Presided of Rituals 10. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 11. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 12. Grave keeper’s Spy 13. D.D. Crow 14. D.D. Crow 15. Contract with the Abyss 16. Contract with the Abyss 17. Allure of Darkness 18. Allure of Darkness 19. Trade-In 20. Trade-In 21. Preparation of Rites 22. Scapegoat 23. Heavy Storm 24. Lightning Vortex 25. Book of Moon 26. Brain Control 27. Torrential Tribute 28. Bottomless Trap Hole 29. Bottomless Trap Hole 30. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Mirror Force Book of Moon Grave keeper’s Spy Contract with the Abyss Relinquished Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "Argh. I... draw."(1d32)[14]"I set a face down monster again. End turn." Field: Face down Monster LP:4200Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Air knight Pars hath Face down: Jinn Releaser of Rituals Graveyard (6)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Sent of the Thousand Hands Ruin, Queen of Oblivion End of the World Mirror Force Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment He he. My move!(d30)[1]Relinquished attacks your face-down monster. Sacrifice Shock! Relinquished swoops forward and touches the face-down monster, flipping it face-up. A sickening wave of chaotic energy spreads through the field and hits both duelists for damage equal to the defender's DEF. If my other monsters can destroy it, I will continue the attack. Otherwise, I end my turn. Monsters:Grave keeper’s Spy (1200/2000)Grave keeper’s Spy (1200/2000)Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands (1400/1000)Relinquished(0/0)Spell/Traps:Face-down (monster equipped to Relinquished)Face-downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 2 Spoiler Hide The Dark Creator Dark Master – Zorn Face Down: Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Dark Master – Zorn 2. Demise, King of Armageddon 3. The Dark Creator 4. Dark lord Erato 5. Dark Armed Dragon 6. Jinn Presided of Rituals 7. Jinn Presided of Rituals 8. Jinn Presided of Rituals 9. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 10. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 11. Grave keeper’s Spy 12. D.D. Crow 13. D.D. Crow 14. Contract with the Abyss 15. Contract with the Abyss 16. Allure of Darkness 17. Allure of Darkness 18. Trade-In 19. Trade-In 20. Preparation of Rites 21. Scapegoat 22. Heavy Storm 23. Lightning Vortex 24. Book of Moon 25. Brain Control 26. Torrential Tribute 27. Bottomless Trap Hole 28. Bottomless Trap Hole 29. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Mirror Force Book of Moon Grave keeper’s Spy Contract with the Abyss Relinquished Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "The face down was another Releaser of Rituals, with 2000 Defense. Draw."(1d32)[23]"A, perfect. I play The Sanctuary in the Sky. Any battle damage I take from one of my fairy monsters is reduced to 0. I tribute Jinn Releaser of Rituals to summon Air knight Pars hath. Pars hath will attack Grave keeper's spy, dealing 700 damage to you and letting me draw a card."LP:2200Hand (1)Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Graveyard (7)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Jinn Releaser or Rituals Sent of the Thousand Hands Ruin, Queen of Oblivion End of the World Mirror Force Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathHonestHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsDjinn Releaser of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment Draw:(1d31)[11]"I end my turn"Field: Sanctuary in the Sky{table="head"]1|2|3|4|5-|-|AP|-|--|-|-|-|-[/table]Air knight Pars hath:1900/1400LP:2200Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Honest Ruin, Queen of Oblivion Graveyard (7)Spoiler Hide Manju of the ten thousand hands Jinn Presided of Rituals Jinn Releaser or Rituals Sent of the Thousand Hands Ruin, Queen of Oblivion End of the World Mirror Force Deck Spoiler Hide Ruin, Queen of OblivionManju of the Ten Thousand Handyman of the Ten Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand HandsSenju of the Thousand Hands Nova Summoner Nova SummonerAirknight ParshathHonestHonestDjinn Presided of RitualsCestus of DaglaCestus of DaglaBurden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty Burden of the Mighty End of the World End of the World The Sanctuary in the Smythe Sanctuary in the Sky Threatening Roar Mystical Space Typhoon Heavy Storm Giant TrunadeLightning Vortex Bottomless Trap Hole Bottomless Trap Hole Solemn Judgment My draw.(d29)[14]Well, this is something. I lay down another Contract with the Abyss! The pit to the Abyss opens up again, and Manju and the last Grave keeper's Spy are sucked inside. Infernal smoke rises up. Accept my sacrifice and hear my call. Ruler of chaos unmatched, who lays waste unto the earth! Rise up and bring me victory! Dark Master - Zorn! I now call upon Zorn's ability: Chaos Purge! A towering demon lord rises up out of the pit. Flames dance wildly around the battlefield, incinerating Air knight Pars hath. The duel is mine. Dark Master - Zorn! Direct attack! Monsters:Relinquished(0/0)Dark Master - Zorn (2700/1500)Spell/Traps:Face-down (monster equipped to Relinquished)Face-downline Points:5300Spoiler Hide Hand: 1 Spoiler Hide The Dark Creator Face Down: Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Dark Master – Zorn 2. Demise, King of Armageddon 3. The Dark Creator 4. Dark lord Erato 5. Dark Armed Dragon 6. Jinn Presided of Rituals 7. Jinn Presided of Rituals 8. Jinn Presided of Rituals 9. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 10. Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands 11. Grave keeper’s Spy 12. D.D. Crow 13. D.D. Crow 14. Contract with the Abyss 15. Allure of Darkness 16. Allure of Darkness 17. Trade-In 18. Trade-In 19. Preparation of Rites 20. Scapegoat 21. Heavy Storm 22. Lightning Vortex 23. Book of Moon 24. Brain Control 25. Torrential Tribute 26. Bottomless Trap Hole 27. Bottomless Trap Hole 28. Solemn Judgment Extra Deck: Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Mirror Force Book of Moon Grave keeper’s Spy x3 Contract with the Abyss Relinquished Manju of the Ten Thousand Hands Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty Dark Master - Zorn effect roll:(d6)[3] Zorn destroys Pars hath, followed by him attacking directly, wiping out my life points. Good game. Any suggestions on how to improve my deck (While still focusing on Ruin for fluff purposes) Your deck looks well-built enough. Jinn Releaser is perfect, but it may be a bit hard to use with End of the World. Sanctuary in the Sky also doesn't seem like it serves any good purpose in this Deck. Same goes for Burden and Cetus of Darla. Good cards, but in my opinion, lack synergy. Try adding a few more Level 8 monsters that synergize well with your Deck. For example, Arch lord Kristy, Guardian of Order, or Volcanic the Adjudicator (though the latter will work only if you run a lot of Counter Traps). These can give you easy Tribute fodder for Ruin, and if you run enough of them, can be used with Trade-In to give you some extra Draw Power. Would you consider running a Demise, King of Armageddon as well, or would that compromise your flavor too much? And do you have any tips for my deck? A young boy with brilliant orange hair leaps into the arena, brimming with energy. Hey, my name's Tyler, nice to meet you, let's duel! A man with a beard dressed in regal attire looks at the boy, blinking." Greeting. Yes. Let's."(1d20)[8](1d40)[19](1d39)[23](1d38)[29](1d37)[22](1d36)[3]Spoiler Hide Exiled Force The A. Forces The A. Forces Swords of Revealing Light King's Knight Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Double Summon Double Summon Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidaritySolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionMirror Force Threatening Roar Heavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker I roll, and I draw!(d20)[14](5d40)[36][19][6][23][26](110)(3d40)[15][5][13](33) I'll go first, so I draw (d35)[14] and I activate Hand Destruction, discarding Level Eater and A-Team Trap Disposal Unit, and then I draw two more cards(2d34)[13][8](21)and then I Set a face-down monster and I end my turn. Monsters:Face Down Spell/Traps:Life Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Junk Synchrony Heavy Storm QuillBot Hedgehog Face Down: Spoiler Hide Dandelion Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Junk Synchrony 6. Nitro Synchrony 7. QuillBot Hedgehog 8. QuillBot Hedgehog 9. Tuningware 10. Tuningware 11. Tuningware 12. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 13. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 14. Level Eater 15. Sagan 16. Brain Control 17. Mind Control 18. Card Destruction 19. Hand Destruction 20. Creature Swap 21. Machine Duplication 22. Machine Duplication 23. Reinforcement of the Army 24. Synchro 25. Reckless Greed 26. Reckless Greed 27. Reckless Greed 28. Mirror Force 29. Torrential Tribute 30. Solemn Judgment 31. Bottomless Trap Hole 32. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 2x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "I discard the A. Forces and Exiled Force."(1d35)[32](1d34)[21]Hand Spoiler Hide The A. Forces Swords of Revealing Light King's Knight Mirror Force Double Summon Graveyard Spoiler Hide The A. Forces Exiled Force Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Double Summon Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidaritySolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionThreatening Roar Heavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker "I discard the A. Forces and Exiled Force."" I draw."(1d33)[31]"King's Knight attacks. A. Forces increases his power. Two face downs."{table]-|-|K|-|--|F|A|F|-[/table]King's Knight:1600/1500A Forces Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon Soil Graveyard (4)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces The A. Forces Mirror Force Exiled Force Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidaritySolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker You destroyed my Dandelion, so I get two Fluff Tokens, and now I draw.(d32)[24]I activate Heavy Storm to clear your back row, and then I summon Junk Synchrony, who brings back my A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit in Defense Position, and then I tune Junk Synchrony with the two Fluff Tokens to Synchro Summon Junk Warrior with 2600 ATK, who destroys King's Knight, and then I Set a face-down card and end my turn. Monsters:Junk Warrior (2600/1300)A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit (300/400)Spell/Traps:Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 2 Spoiler Hide QuillBot Hedgehog Synchro Face Down: Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Junk Synchrony 6. Nitro Synchrony 7. QuillBot Hedgehog 8. QuillBot Hedgehog 9. Tuningware 10. Tuningware 11. Tuningware 12. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 13. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 14. Level Eater 15. Sagan 16. Brain Control 17. Mind Control 18. Card Destruction 19. Hand Destruction 20. Creature Swap 21. Machine Duplication 22. Machine Duplication 23. Reinforcement of the Army 24. Reckless Greed 25. Reckless Greed 26. Reckless Greed 27. Mirror Force 28. Torrential Tribute 29. Solemn Judgment 30. Bottomless Trap Hole 31. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "I chain Threatening Roar to your Heavy Storm, preventing you from attacking this turn. I draw."(1d32)[21]"I activate swords of revealing light, preventing you from attacking for three turns."{table]-|-|K|-|--|-|-|-|-[/table]King's Knight:1600/1500Sword of Revealing Light. (0/3)Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon Graveyard (4)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces The A. Forces Mirror Force Exiled Force Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidaritySolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker Aww. I draw.(d31)[28]I Set a monster and yeah. Monsters:Junk Warrior (2600/1300)A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit (300/400)Face Down Spell/Traps:Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 2 Spoiler Hide Synchro Torrential Tribute Face Down: Spoiler Hide QuillBot Hedgehog Call of the Haunted Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Junk Synchrony 6. Nitro Synchrony 7. QuillBot Hedgehog 8. QuillBot Hedgehog 9. Tuningware 10. Tuningware 11. Tuningware 12. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 13. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 14. Level Eater 15. Sagan 16. Brain Control 17. Mind Control 18. Card Destruction 19. Hand Destruction 20. Creature Swap 21. Machine Duplication 22. Machine Duplication 23. Reinforcement of the Army 24. Reckless Greed 25. Reckless Greed 26. Reckless Greed 27. Mirror Force 28. Solemn Judgment 29. Bottomless Trap Hole 30. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "You set a monster and "yeah"? I was not aware that that was an action in this game." He says, mocking the boy.(1d32)[27]"I play Solidarity, boosting my monster's attack by 800 if there is only one type of monster in my graveyard, which is the case. King's Knight shall attack your Disposal Unit."{table]-|-|K|-|--|-|Soil|S|-[/table]King's Knight:2400/1500Sword of Revealing Light. (1/3)Solidarity(+800 attack for all warriors on the field)Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon Graveyard (4)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces The A. Forces Mirror Force Exiled Force Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker I draw(d30)[5]and I end my turn. Monsters:Junk Warrior (2600/1300)Face Down Spell/Traps:Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Synchro Torrential Tribute Junk Synchrony Face Down: Spoiler Hide QuillBot Hedgehog Call of the Haunted Torrential Tribute Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Nitro Synchrony 6. QuillBot Hedgehog 7. QuillBot Hedgehog 8. Tuningware 9. Tuningware 10. Tuningware 11. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 12. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 13. Level Eater 14. Sagan 15. Brain Control 16. Mind Control 17. Card Destruction 18. Hand Destruction 19. Creature Swap 20. Machine Duplication 21. Machine Duplication 22. Reinforcement of the Army 23. Reckless Greed 24. Reckless Greed 25. Reckless Greed 26. Mirror Force 27. Solemn Judgment 28. Bottomless Trap Hole 29. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "Draw!"(1d30)[9]"I set a face down monster. King's Knight shall attack your face down."{table]-|F|K|-|--|-|Soil|S|-[/table]King's Knight:2400/1500Sword of Revealing Light. (2/3)Solidarity(+800 attack for all warriors on the field)Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon Face down: Marauding Captain Graveyard (5)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces The A. Forces Mirror Force Threatening Roar Exiled Force Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker You destroyed my QuillBot Hedgehog, and now I draw.(d29)[9]I Set a face-down card and end my turn. Monsters:Junk Warrior (2600/1300)Spell/Traps:Face Down Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Synchro Junk Synchrony Tuningware Face Down: Spoiler Hide Call of the Haunted Torrential Tribute Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Nitro Synchrony 6. QuillBot Hedgehog 7. QuillBot Hedgehog 8. Tuningware 9. Tuningware 10. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 11. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 12. Level Eater 13. Sagan 14. Brain Control 15. Mind Control 16. Card Destruction 17. Hand Destruction 18. Creature Swap 19. Machine Duplication 20. Machine Duplication 21. Reinforcement of the Army 22. Reckless Greed 23. Reckless Greed 24. Reckless Greed 25. Mirror Force 26. Solemn Judgment 27. Bottomless Trap Hole 28. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit QuillBot Hedgehog Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "I draw."(1d29)[4]"I summon Queen's Knight, and switch my face down Marauding Captain Face-Up. He is the only target you may attack."{table]-|F|K|Q|--|-|-|S|-[/table]King's Knight:2400/1500Queen's Knight:2300/1600Marauding Captain:2000[/800Solidarity(+800 attack for all warriors on the field)Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon Graveyard (6)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces The A. Forces Mirror Force Threatening Roar Exiled Force Swords of Revealing Light Spoiler Hide King's Knighting's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker I draw!(d28)[20]I activate Call of the Haunted to bring back Junk Synchrony, then I Normally Summon Tuningware, then I use Machine Duplication to make two more, then I tune all three Tuning wares to Junk Synchrony to Synchro Summon Mist Warm and return all your monsters to your hand, and my Tuning wares let me draw three cards. Tuningware draw:(3d25)[17][6][24](47)Rerolls:(3d25)[23][19][21](63) Then I Synchro my Mist Warm and get back my Junk Synchrony and Tuning wares, and I tune them again into Stardust Dragon and draw 3 more cards.(3d22)[12][17][11](40)Rerolls:(3d22)[19][20][2](41)Stardust Dragon and Junk Warrior attack directly for 5100 damage, and then I Set two more face-downs and end my turn. Monsters:Junk Warrior (2600/1300)Stardust Dragon (2500/2000)Spell/Traps:Call of the Haunted Face DownFace Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 5 Spoiler Hide Junk Synchrony Machine Duplication QuillBot Hedgehog Mind Control Brain Control Face Down: Spoiler Hide Torrential Tribute Reckless Greed Bottomless Trap Hole Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. Nitro Synchrony 6. QuillBot Hedgehog 7. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 8. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 9. Level Eater 10. Sagan 11. Card Destruction 12. Hand Destruction 13. Creature Swap 14. Reinforcement of the Army 15. Reckless Greed 16. Reckless Greed 17. Mirror Force 18. Solemn Judgment 19. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit QuillBot Hedgehog Tuningware Tuningware Tuningware Synchro Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty "AGH! I- I draw!" The man loses his cool.(1d28)[1]"I play Double Summon, giving me two normal summonses this turn. I summon Marauding Captain, which lets me summon Queen's Knight. I use my other normal summon for King's Knight, whose effect lets me summon Jack's Knight to the field. Jack's Knight will attack your Stardust Dragon. Go!"LP: 2900{table]-|K|Q|J|MC-|-|-|S|-[/table]King's Knight:2400 ATK Queen's Knight:2300 ATK Jack's Knight:2700 ATK Marauding Captain:2000 ATK Solidarity(+800 attack for all warriors on the field)Hand (2)Spoiler Hide Double Summon King's Knight Graveyard (7)Spoiler Hide The A. Forces Double Summon The A. Forces Mirror Force Threatening Roar Exiled Force Swords of Revealing Light Spoiler Hide King's Knight Queen's Knight Queen's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Jack's Knight Marauding Captain Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General Freed the Matchless General. D. Assailant. D. Assailant Exiled Force Exiled Force Reinforcement of the Army The Warrior Returning Alive The Warrior Returning Alive Ultimate OfferingPolymerizationPolymerizationSuper Polymerization Forced RequisitionSolidarityDe-Fusion-FusionHeavy Storm Mystical Space Typhoon Arcane Knight JokerArcana Knight Joker I activate Bottomless Trap Hole on Jack's Knight, and I guess you end your turn, so I draw.(d19)[5] I summon another Junk Synchrony who brings back Tuningware, and I Tune Junk Synchrony to Junk Warrior and Tuningware to Synchro Summon my Mist Warm again to bounce all your monsters, and I draw another card(d18)[13]and then Stardust Dragon and Mist Warm attack and I win! Monsters:Mist Warm (2500/1500)Stardust Dragon (2500/2000)Spell/Traps:Call of the Haunted Face Down Face Downline Points:8000Spoiler Hide Hand: 5 Spoiler Hide Junk Synchrony Machine Duplication QuillBot Hedgehog Mind Control Brain Control Nitro Synchrony Face Down: Spoiler Hide Torrential Tribute Reckless Greed Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Quick draw Synchrony 2. Quick draw Synchrony 3. Quick draw Synchrony 4. Junk Synchrony 5. QuillBot Hedgehog 6. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 7. A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit 8. Level Eater 9. Sagan 10. Card Destruction 11. Hand Destruction 12. Creature Swap 13. Reinforcement of the Army 14. Reckless Greed 15. Reckless Greed 16. Mirror Force 17. Solemn Judgment 18. Bottomless Trap Hole Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide 1x Armory Arm 1x Junk Warrior 1x Magical Android 1x Turbo Warrior 1x Britney, Dragon of the Ice Barrier 1x Goya Guardian 1x Black Rose Dragon 2x Nitro Warrior 2x Stardust Dragon 1x Road Warrior 1x Colossal Fighter 1x Mist Warm Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Hand Destruction Level Eater Heavy Storm Junk Synchrony A-Team: Trap Disposal Unit QuillBot Hedgehog Tuningware Tuningware Tuningware Synchro Bottomless Trap Hole Removed from Play: Spoiler Hide Empty Argh. My deck, it has flaws. Like the inability to draw my monsters, apparently. >Any suggestions? The end goal keeping the theme of only having warriors and summoning Arcane Knight Joker ASAP. Suggestions? I've never used a Knight deck before, so I'm not sure. One thing I suppose would be Future Fusion to get out Arcane Knight Joker more easily. Perhaps Elemental Hero Prism would aid in that as well. Drawing cards would be a problem for this Deck. I don't really know how to fix that, barring some draw engine like the Destiny Hero Engine. Take out Forced Requisition: it doesn't work with this deck. Perhaps you can try experimenting with some other Warriors like The Immortal Bush or a Tuner like Rose, Warrior of Revenge. That's all I have.

Yu-Gi-Oh PbP_ Blue Ghost vs. Shades of Gray|rating:3.0

Finding Treasure Island - Lyralie and Swashbuckler

Galen Hillsdale stood before the large mirror in the upstairs hall of his families sumptuous home, fiddling with the annoyingly high collar of his starched white shirt, his fingertip dipping for the thousandth time beneath the cloth and tugging. It was bad enough he was wearing what had to be for layers in a tropical climate, shirt, vest, coat, etc., but now to not even be able to breathe? It was unnecessarily cruel, even for his appearance conscious family. Narrowing his dark eyes, Galen wondered again at all the fuss and bother over this night, a half scowl crossing his lips and creasing his well tanned skin, an expression that he quickly hid as a vision in silk glided into the hallway further behind and turned his way. Too slow was he to drop his hand from his color though, and soon his mother was at his back, turning him from the mirror so that she could slap at his wrist and conduct an inspection of her own. “Enough of that Galen! You stretch that collar out, and it is a brand-new shirt! I swear, three sons and each the worse for the wear. No appreciation for the finer things in life, but too much appreciation for the money that buys them!” He mother lamented, his hands ghosting over the front of his clothes methodically, straightening a lapel here, pulling a wrinkle out there, and worst of all, working that damned collar right back into its ‘proper’ height and shape.“Easy enough to you to say, Mother. You get to wear flowing things and of course look perfect effortlessly.” The young scion of the Hillsdale family replied with his easy, lopsided smile, knowing a compliment on a big night never hurt, and she more than likely would not hear one from his stiff father. And in all fairness, it was true, his mother was in her mid-50’s now, and still more beautiful than many women half her age. Holding only a streak of gray at her temples, which he knew she loved for both its uniqueness and lack of spreading, Esmeralda Hillsdale could have easily passed for his older sister, or even his eldest brother’s wife, were she not so well known in the city. A socialite of the highest caliber, Galen had no doubt who was behind this invitation for the entire family to the Mayor’s grand event.“As good as you’ll get I am afraid. I’ve never been able to conquer this unruly mop…” He went on, ruffling her long fingers through his hair before turning him towards the stairs with a push. “Down with the others now. Give you mother a few more moments before we depart.” Following her directions with a grin, Galen descended the stairs to join his two brothers and father where they stood in the parlor, discussing business over brandy, the conversation dying very abruptly as he entered.“Ah, yes. As I was…um….saying. The Constant should return to port within the month, Father. It will fetch a fine price for its cargo, as well as the fee for carrying it.” His middle brother, Barrel was saying. Older by Galen by two years, Barrel was a shrewd businessman, not that you could tell by the way he was stammering at the moment. Ignoring them lest he get drawn in and asked his opinion on something, Galen made his way to the sideboard, pouring a little brandy for himself, all under his father’s watchful eye. “That’s enough, Galen.” His father murmured, the only tone of voice he needed, “a little to steady the nerves, but I won’t have you embarrassing me tonight.” Biting back a retort, Galen drained his glass as it was considering tempting trouble with another, when he was saved by his mother and eldest brother descending the stairs in time with the carriages clattering arrival. Soon the five of them were packed inside the roiling contraption, making their noisy way over the towns cobblestone street and towards the gaily light expanse that was the Mayor’s mansion. Rosalind Tremaine, daughter of Lord and Lady Tremaine, one of the wealthiest and most influential families of the nobility tarried before the ornate mirror in her room. Anger sparkled in the dark chocolate of her eyes as she stoically regarded her reflection. Despite how low the sun waned in the western sky the night still promised blistering warmth and humidity. The weather wasn’t uncommon for summer which started with the Mayor’s annual ball, tonight’s ball. Rosalind gritted her teeth in frustration as she turned with a swirl of her skirts towards her bedroom door.“Rosa! Rosa we are late!” Her father’s baritone carried from the main foyer where she assumed her family awaited her presence. “Rosa, we can only be so late before it is no longer fashionable.” Her mother’s soft alto echoed her father’s reprimand. Rosalind sighed as she slipped from the spacious rooms. Tonight her family left their city home from the large, more resplendent ocean side mansion, more palace, which crested the cliffs overlooking the ocean on the western fridges of the port city. Rosalind adored their summer home which sprawled over acres of what her father called, “the best real estate in town.” Tomorrow she would taste the salty sea air, watch the sun break over the eastern horizon and bask in the beauty of the rolling waves. Tonight’s ordeal already tried her nerves and she’d yet to leave the house. Rosalind quickly descended the main staircase greeted with remarks to her beauty from her parents and younger brother. It pained her that Edward failed to earn her father’s forgiveness. Her older brother had been disowned, cut off, from the family for the past five years. She missed his quick wit and easy smile, but welcomed his return every few months when he docked in the city to resupply. She alone new he’d gone rogue. The day of his banishment Edward had skipped town with her father’s fastest ship. Now he roamed the waters taking plunder where he pleased and on occasion sneaking his sister out for a brief adventure. She brushed thoughts of her brother aside as she joined her family. “You will do me proud tonight, Rosa. You look just like your mother at that age.” Caterina Tremaine’s hair had turned silver several years prior, but she remained ever beautiful. Rosalind’s coffee colored curls and clear, light-bronzed complexion were all gifts from her mother. True to fashion her mother’s gown boasted layers of satin and lace with ruffles alone the hem of the skirt and beading along the scoop neck line. Flowers scattered in her hair completed the put together look. “You’re wrinkled!” Caterina exclaimed as she hastened forward and tugged at Rosalind’s skirts. Rosalind maintained an immaculate appearance and the fluttering of her mother’s fingers soothed the elder woman’s nerves. “So simple. No ruffles, no beads.” She mother smiles brilliantly despite her chastising comments. Rosalind chanced a look in the glass before she donned the light cloak she wore out on hot summer nights. Her waist length hair had been twisted into a messy bun, but tresses fought their trappings falling to frame her face. Rosalind preferred to forgo the art of face painting and unnecessary trappings of society. She donned soft leather boots instead of slippers and simply forgot to bring her white gloves. The burgundy gown she wore clung to her curves and accented the swell of her breasts with a modest V-cut. It was a simple satin that lacked the extra bustle of most modern gowns. Rosalind added a simple golden chain and garnet studs to her ears to complete the look. “You will do us quite proud tonight.” Her father repeated as he stepped forward to tuck a wine colored carnation into her hair. Moments later they alighted into the family carriage and set off at a light bounce towards the robust mansion that crowned the city. Rosalind hated the mayor with a fiery passion. He’d propositioned her once. She’d refused, but that hadn’t stopped him from trying to corner her and offer bribes for her hand. She hated most men save for her two brothers and father. Her suites all had feathers for brains and lacked adventure in their spirit. At one and twenty she ought to have married off by now and settled into her own home. Rosalind had never once come close to marriage, she doubted she ever would. Several moments later they arrived and spilled from the lush carriage. “Hurry children.” Her father beckoned as he set off with Caterina on his arm. Rosalind rested her hand delicately on her brother’s arm as they ascended the front steps to the brilliantly lit entryway where their coats and cloaks were collected. Rosalind waited impatiently for the herald to announce their presence, but she refused to show it. Calmly she affixed a dazzling smile to her lips as they took the ballroom by storm. Rosalind was disgusted with all the twittering ladies and stuffed peacocks that fluttered about the room. As soon as she could, Rosalind secreted herself away to the shadows with a glass of wine. It was setting up to be a long night indeed. Galen was utterly bored, and was already plotting his escape from this overly hot room, fulled with stuffy people talking about stuff things, and stuffing their faces with overly rich foods and too much drink. The worst part was, of course, that his parents were hovering over him like two watchful and overprotective hawks. Maybe not hawks. Hawks missed more than they did. Normally at these events, they arrived, admonished their youngest to behave himself for once, and then wandered off to show off their clothes and jewelry. Tonight though, they seemed to be passing up their normal routine of passive-aggressively rubbing their growing fortune and success into their peers faces in favor of making sure they ruin poor Galen's night. Any girl he smiled at or started to talk to was quickly shooed away by his mother, which brought his chances of talking to ANY to a close quite quickly, for say what you would about the vapid girls here, they knew when trying to talk to the youngest son quite likely to inherit little but a name and a job was farther than less worth the trouble. On top of that indignity, Galen's father had managed to position himself between his son and any chances of liquid entertainment. As if the cold looks he was giving his son would not have frozen the liquids in their glasses anyway. Sighing at how very put upon he was, Galen was glad for once that the Mayor was a crass show-off, for the serving girls were at least lovely, and were allowed to pass his mother's cordon, and with champagne flutes nonetheless. While Galen tended to hate champagne, it was better than standing around the whole night sober and thirsty. The young nobles new-found affection for the town's Mayor lasted all of a few minutes, for soon enough the corpulent and sweaty man was ambling up to a platform raised at one end of the room. Apparently enough people had arrived that anyone walking in now would simply be late, not fashionably late, so the Mayor was going to give his little, or long-winded, welcoming speech, then everyone could get back to sniping and trying to backstab one another.' Maybe after this my parents will at last leave me alone. God knows what has gotten into them.' Galen thought, leaning a should against a nearby pillar and ignoring the glare his father shot him. He was hardly the person looking least interested." Welcome all! It is another glorious night here to kick off the season, and I could not be happier to be so surrounded by friends and families!" The Mayor began, clearly having started early on what Galen was being forced to go without, the young noble thought with a smirk, taking in the man's florid complexion." And while it will indeed be a magical night, as all my parties are, ha ha ha!", only the Mayor and the very polite laughed here,"For two young people, it is about to be a VERY special night!" Rosalind barely sequestered herself in a shadowed corner with the open balcony behind her. A gentle breeze licked at her body as she pulled away from the warmth and stuffiness that filled the room with the press of bodies that strutted like hostile peacocks. Metal clanged loudly against the floor further down the balcony as a serving girl tucked herself into a niche with some noble, likely a younger son. Rosalind shock her head as she lifted her glass to sip the win only to have a large, weathered hand snatch it away. “Too heavy, Rosa. Too heavy. Come out of the corner.” Small, delicate hands wrapped around her upper arm like a vice as her mother and father descended upon her, hawks the both of them. Before she knew it she’d been dragged to the center of the room where her father stuffed a crystal glass of champagne into her hands. Rosalind glared pointedly at both of her parents as she sipped from the delicate glass, but they simply ignored her unspoken protests. Like bodyguards her parents flanked her rebuffing any young suitors who approached, not that many dared. Rosalind’s reputation for being aloof and disinterested in the follies only grew with the numbers of suitors that courted her.“What has gotten into you?” She hissed softly as her empty glasses was exchanged for another when a serving maid skittered past. “You never once cared if I danced the night away or found the house library.” Rosalind wanted nothing more than to melt into the floor, to keep the lustful looks that slipped down her body. They pretended not to hear her words as they chattered with passing friends and business acquaintances. “ What the hell is going on?” She mused silently as she brooded over her third glass of champagne. Across the room she spied another under the tender embraces of his parent’s attention. Just then the pompous, stodgy Mayor, the man who irritated Rosalind the most, took the room by drunken storm. “ By his words are some poor saps marked, doomed to matrimony.” She smirked into her champagne as she reveled in their demise. Most of the mayor’s words slipped past as her attention waned towards her brother’s impending visit. She longed to feel the ship roll beneath her feet, to stand in the salty sea air as they sailed towards plunder. “Rosalind Tremaine and Galen Hillsdale!” She choked on her glass as her name fell on a hushed crowd. All eyes turned towards her as her mother snatched the crystal from her hand and shoved her into the center of the room where she stood alone.Empty-handed and alone. Rosalind swore she could hear starched shirts crease and skirts rustle as necks craned to ogle the lone woman. She lifted her gaze to the gloating mayor as he stood above her with his glass raised. He chortled as he nodded towards the orchestra. Noise filled the room reverberating off of the walls and crystal as she turned a slow circle with her hands clenched in her wine colored skirts. On the opposite side of the room, although not far enough from the center of the action to be at all comfortable, Galen was just switching his empty flute for a full one when the announcement was made. Already moving a bit too quickly in eagerness not to miss someone's chagrin, the fact that HIS name was called startled him enough that he bumped the tray of full flutes, nearly sending it crashing to the floor, although some quick bumbling limited the damage to simply spilling every glass on the tray down the poor waitresses front. Apologizing profusely, Galen heard his father exclaim "Fool!", as did several people around them, before he was grabbed and shoved out into the center of the room. Looking around confused, Galen's mind finally caught up to WHAT name had been called, and realized his parents truly DID dislike him. While he did not know her personally in the least, there were plenty of rumors about the cold, standoffish nature of Rosalind Tremaine (there were actually a few ruder than that, but he didn't listen to EVERYTHING) and of her guaranteed life of spinsterhood. Or perhaps a nun. There was some division there. And now, inconceivably, GALEN was supposed to prove all of those rumors wrong? Turning back briefly to his family, it only took one quick look at the calm glare his mother was shooting him to tell him that any step in any direction other than towards the slowly spinning girl would mean his doom. Sighing, Galen waited until Rosalind finished her turn and faced him before he smiled wide and stepped close. Perhaps a good first impression could go a long way, and he'd at least have a pleasant time of it on his way to figuring a way out of this mess." Hello, Rosalind. Fancy meeting like this at last." He grinned, enjoying the titters of those close enough to hear him over the music, although her expression was not filling him with hope." That is....er....a fascinating dress. It matches your hair....perfectly." He went on, thinking a few compliments could not hurt, although he wished they sounded a little less like questions. Rosalind froze mid-turn as she spied her husband-to-be approach, his displeasure apparent as he dragged his feet across the dance floor. She knew the rumors that flew about the upper crusts of society. She knew the predictions for her future and spurred them on by openly rebuffing suitors who were obviously would not work. Furthermore, she gritted her teeth as snickers rolled through the room with Galen’s greeting. Furthermore, she fixed a polite smile on her lips and with a small step closer she dipped a curtsy so low it was almost scandalous. “Fancy? I would not fancy to meet anyone here, Galen.” There were enough rumors that circulated about Galen Hillsdale Rosalind knew he liked pretty young serving girls if he could get away with a fling. She also knew from her father’s business contacts that he was the youngest son, a flirt, a scandal in the making and well-loved by his parents. She assumed by his perfectly starched shirt and impeccable jacket he was frivolous. It took all of her willpower not to let the dismay, disappointment…the anger at her current situation to sparkle in her eyes as she stepped closer to him. When he failed to lift his arms for the waltz that gaily encouraged them to dance she helped him by lifting his hands, one to rest on her waist and the other she clasped in her own. I’m still going to marry a twit. She thought darkly as she encouraged him to move, if he didn’t take the hint she planned to step on his foot. Rosalind perked a brow at him as they finally began to move. “Fascinating? My dress is fascinating because it lacks the luster and sparkle of the other young ladies that catch your eye? Or did you fail to find something more eloquent about your wife to be?” She bit her words out past the smile she wore as she stared up into his eyes hoping to find something, some spark that would shake the gloom that now shrouded her future. At first, Galen simply blinked owlishly at Rosalind response. How could one not fancy meeting anyone in a room positively full of people? You were by the very nature of the event meeting people constantly and…….oh, she did not FANCY meeting any of these people. Well, that was a bit harsh in his opinion (ignoring the fact that he felt nearly the same for everyone present, this way he got to take the mental high road), but it WAS in keeping with all he had heard to expect from this contrastingly beautiful but aloof girl. As Rosalind started moving his hands to their proper placement for the waltz, very proper in fact, Galen started from his musings and took that minute step forward that escalated their proximity from two people meeting for the first time to the more intimate distance for dancing. Luckily, it allowed him an extra second to two to digest her meaning.” Eloquent? I can’t imagine that it the look many were going for. Then again, some need a little extra boost in the regard of eye-catching, and some don’t. Far be it from me to judge between the two.” Galen replied, his tone utterly cavalier, as he quite wrongly figured he had little to lose here. As his wife to be begun to move, Galen immediately stepped inward and began the very first turn of the dance. If this girl, wealthy and prominent as her family might be, was going to think that she was going to take the lead because he had been a little thrown off and distracted, she had another thing coming! Indeed, Galen’s hand dropped just a hint lower on Rosalind’s slim waist, his grip just a bit strong as the dance began in earnest all around them.” Still, I do hope that I won’t have to explain and justify every compliment I give my…..wife to be. Surely you’ve heard them at a point of two before? Compliments, that is.” Galen initially responded exactly as Rosalind expected, wanted. Surprise lingered in his features as she began to move into the dance, but he quickly recovered which took her completely by surprise. Her antics, tactics even, had never failed to intimidate before leaving her in a very new position she wasn’t sure she liked. His hand slid lower down her back resting just a hair lower than was socially acceptable, but what really unnerved the young heiress was the heat from his hand seemed to burn through her dress until it seared her flesh. Rosalind quietly pulled against his hold for a long moment before she settled into the rhythm of the dance allowing him to lead her through the steps. She stared up at him thoughtfully as a small smile curved the corners of her mouth. She saw a glimmer of hope in his actions, his unwillingness to cower from her tart words and haughty demeanor. Rosalind recovered quickly both her wit and her tongue. “Did you ever see a room filled with such stuffed peacocks in their starched cravats and satins skirts? Jewels and fine fabrics do not make a person. A peacock, for all of its pretty feathers, is a very unkind bird.” Silence resumed as she allowed him to take her words as he might. If Galen paid attention, he might notice the subtle softening in her gaze as they danced. The change in her body large as she shifted from stiff and unbending to curious. He didn’t shy from her barbs, didn’t cow when she glared. Perhaps the young man had spine, backbone. She’d always assumed one of the fops that strutted and vied for her attention would, but had yet to find it. She resisted ruffling his feathers until the last measures of the dance rang through the room. “A compliment, Galen? I will not contest a compliment when you give me one. Perhaps if you had called me lovely, beautiful. Breathtaking even, but no. You called me fascinating which strikes of flattery.” She offered him a sassy smile as she tried to disengage from his hold and should she succeed, Rosalind had every dismissing him with the turn of her back. Champagne. She needed to find one of the silly serving girls and secure herself a fresh drink. As the dance continued, Galen found the roguish smile on his face easier and easier to keep, as well as finding it far easier to ignore those around them and the many eyes fixed upon them. He knew his parents were watching for the slightest misstep on his part, Rosalind’s were probably watching to see if they had made a mistake, and his peers were watching to see who would make a fool of who first. Still, looking down into Rosalind’s eyes, he thought he detected a little thawing there, perhaps even a glimmer of interest, and it made the dance go that much easier in his eyes. Of course, the slip and sway of the satin beneath his hand, and the way it alternately brushed along his body while clinging to curves he had not noticed until this very moment did not hurt his sudden appreciation for waltzing at all, for all that their nearly distracted him from what his partner was saying.“Yes, quite unkind really. And, to be frankly, dumb as a post. At least a turkey tastes good for being stupid. Peacocks don’t even have that going for them, which makes the comparison all the more apt.” he said in response as they turned through the dance, passing a group of dolled up daughters made to look at the more ridiculous by the contrast to his future wife. He was just thinking of some way to put that into words when once more this girl took Galen by surprise, and this time he was rather sure he did NOT like it! Perhaps he should have kept his grip stronger as opposed to lower, but no sooner had the music ended then it seemed any progress made was lost as the girl through a bit of sass his way, and spun out his arms fast enough to leave him standing foolishly. Turning quickly, Galen put on his best ‘we meant for that to happen smile’ before catching up to the girl, his hand landing once more on the small of her back as he moved beside her. “So fascinating smacks of flattery, but simply words like lovely and beautiful don’t? How.common. And here I thought a word less used would have more impact, being different from what every other bejeweled peacock would want to hear. Lesson learned I suppose.” He continued, his tone starting aloof and sailing right past and into haughty, a perfect and very intentionally imitation of her first inflection to him.“And look, salvation at last.” Galen continued, releasing Rosalind and grabbing two flutes of champagne from an approaching servant girl before dangling one at the end of his grip towards his future bride. “Can I interest you in thislovelychampagne?” Rosalind resisted the urge to admit that the surrounding air turned cool without the warmth of his body as they danced. She eluded herself into admitting that while she didn’t hate the solid frame her provided, she didn’t like it either. She tasted freedom from the confused emotions and thoughts that threatened her composure when he suddenly appeared at her side once more. Galen guided her across the room effortlessly with his hand at the small of her back, but unlike the dance he now exerted pressure against her body. Rosalind almost stumbled as he offered her the same cool reserve she’d greeted him with as he responded to her flippant dismissal. Rosalind gaped at him. It was the most unflattering thing she’d done in society for a long time. She stopped short forcing him to “encourage” her forward, her jaw dropped, and her eyes widened in utter surprise. She was so taken aback that Rosalind failed to retort as he turned away from her and collected two champagne flutes from an approaching serving girl. Rosalind struggled for her composure as he faced her once more and lazily offered one of the flutes. He kept her at arms-length just as she had. Several things happened at once. Rosalind flushed pink as she realized he’d not only kept up with her banter, but returned it and called her out on her sass. She also discovered that she respected him a little more and that the hope she’d sensed for the future might be squashed if she didn’t find a way to mend the situation. Rosalind took a small step to the side before she glided close enough that the gentle sway of her skirts brushed against his body. She positioned herself so that his outstretched arm almost rested over her shoulder as she reached for the second glass he held so that her fingertips grazed against his. Rosalind ignored the disgruntled noises from the crowd keeping her gaze pinned to his. “Thank you, Galen.” She murmured. Her parents descended upon them a moment later breaking the spell. Rosalind quickly backed away and snagged the first crystal flute he’d offered her. “Congratulations! Galen, we are so excited to welcome you to the family.” Her mother beamed with excitement and one too many glasses of champagne. Rosalind could tell from the pink stain on her mother’s cheeks she’d had four or five already and the night had barely started. “Galen, my boy. This wedding marks the future of our family’s and our businesses!” Lord Tremaine’s voice boomed through the room as he whacked poor Galen on the back. Rosalind grinned into her drink as she watched her family greet the young man. What happened next shocked her enough she choked on the bubbly liquid. “It’s a shame we’re leaving town tonight. The kids don’t have enough time to really get to know each other.” Lady Tremaine pouted up at her husband with so much disappointment in her eyes Rosalind almost believed it was genuine. “However are we going to plan the wedding by the end of the season if I never see Galen’s mother?”“At the end of the season?!” Rosalind spluttered as she gawked at her mother’s innocent expression. Lady Tremaine nodded as if this were the most natural thing in the world while her father chuckled, his smile almost infectious. “Why Galen and his family can come stay with us for a time. “ Rosalind began to shake her head in denial, but her father ignored her. Like usual when he schemed up some plan. “Too bad Galen can’t accompany us out to see the unveiling. Its glorious the first time we come home.” She had to agree with that statement. She loved the ocean, loved their country home and longed to be there when they stayed in town.“Why, he can!” Her mother exclaimed suddenly. “He looks to be about Edward’s size so he can borrow some clothes until his family arrives with his bags. “ Her mother clapped her hands as if her solution solved all the problems. Rosalind’s stomach dropped with dread. Edward was due home tonight or tomorrow with the beginning of the season. She’d intended to steal herself away for a day or two which would be impossible with Galen underfoot. “Surely Galen would prefer to arrive tomorrow or the day after with his own belongings.” She interjected trying in vain to keep the hopeful plea from her voice. She missed Edward terribly and found more adventure and excitement when he was home then all the days she spent without her older brother around. The nobility was stodgy and stuffy, Edward always brought a breath of fresh air with him. Galen was, surprisingly, doing a fair job of hiding the utter joy he felt at making the normally unflappable (or so he had heard) Rosalind Tremaine seem so utterly shocked. It was a moment he just KNEW that he would cherish and relive for years to come. He was indeed already planning to do just that when the young noble woman ever so effectively took the wind for his sails and redistributed it elsewhere. The soft rustle of Rosalind skirts coupled with the look in her eyes as she stepped close had Galen going from nearly preening at his temporary victory to nervous and sweating beneath his starched shirt. Galen was, as rumors foretold, no stranger to eager young ladies, but there was something deep in Rosalind's chocolate gaze that told him that he was not prepared for this at all. "You......you are..." Galen replied, somewhat sure that he was going to say 'welcome' and not something embarrassingly more forward when he was 'saved' by the arrival of Lord and Lady Tremaine. Blushing furiously enough that anyone who knew Galen would know his thoughts had been perhaps less than pure a moment ago, Galen managed a nod and to spill half of his drink onto his jacket at the forceful clap on the back from Rosalind's father. "Yes, of course my Lord. I am sure it will be the beginning of a......what now?" Galen began, cutting himself off at the rapid fire responses for the powerful Lord and Lady before him, the young noble too unschooled to recognize a planned conversation like this, even if he was quite aware of a noble woman quite into her cups. Thinking that Rosalind's mothers offer was the result of a few too many champagne toasts, Galen thought this was the perfect chance for him to display a bit to tact and diplomacy, as well as extract himself from what was CLEAR shaping up to be an embarrassing situation. I'll mean, the Tremaine revealing WAS practically legendary in the town, but wearing her exiled brothers hand-me-downs? Hardly the best impression he could make! "A truly wonderful offer Lady Caterina, everyone talk of your country home, but I am sure you will understand that I...."" Will gladly and eagerly accept. "Came the voice of Galen's father from behind, making the young noble cut himself off one more, this time barely holding back a sigh, although he did briefly shut his eyes in assignment. There was no way he could go against his damnably I'll time parents now. It just figured they would be watching the Tremaine's and waiting to pounce and keep their 'fool son' out of trouble"Galen can travel with you, he talks about a summer home all the time anyway, and we'll send his valet with a few things while we organize some affairs here in the city." His mother continued, sounding less rehearsed than Lord and Lady Tremaine, but just barely. Leave it to his mother to mention valets (which Galen did NOT have, as much as share with his brothers) careful to not seem to be coming to this union as supplicants." Well, it seems that is settled then." Galen interjected, perhaps a little too loudly as he was no more fond of being a playing piece than anyone else. "Do have them hurry along with my things, Mother. I should not wish to impose too much on the Tremaine's hospitality. Before your arrival of course." He continued, purposefully arranging his words to needle a bit at his parents. He should have known better than to think being married off meant a modicum of freedom. Ignoring both the glare his parents shot him and the expression on the Tremaine's faces, Galen finished the rest of his drink before at last noticing the wet front of his jacket. "Now how did that happen? How mortifying! Luckily we are all family here. Please excuse me who, e I take care of this. Rosalind, I do hope we get a chance at another dance." Galen grinned, bowing slightly to all before backing away. If he was going to be leaving tonight, he would have to act fast. Rosalind watched the whole situation unfold all while laughing into her champagne flute. Her future husband didn’t stand much of a chance once her parents set their minds to things, and it seemed that his parents were in on the plan. She shrugged it off and began to plot a way to escape the uproar that would soon follow having both families in their summer home. She was truly surprised when Galen beat a hasty retreat leaving her standing alone with both sets of parents.“Where the devil is he off to?” She mused to herself while only half listening to their mother’s as they dreamed up some fancy to do for the wedding to come. “Save him a dance indeed!” She silently tried to imagine whatever it was that could tear him away so easily. She didn’t have much insight into whatever antics kept young noblemen busy, but she doubted it could be vastly important. “Unless he’s setting some young woman free.” She didn’t like the sudden flare of anger that boiled in her blood with that thought.“Excuse me, Mama, Papa, Lord and Lady Hillsdale.” She bobbed a slight curtsy before skittering away with an empty glass in hand. Furthermore, she deposited it with the next serving girl she saw and secreted herself away to the corner she had originally hidden in at the start of the evening. It kept her tucked in plain sight right next to the doors of the balcony where she could bask in the gentle evening breeze. Her father appeared for a brief moment to warn her it would be an early night, just as soon as Galen returned which Rosalind didn’t much mind. Time passed unchecked as she brooded in the corner occasionally swapping out her glass for a fresh one as she pondered the future and her husband to be. She was sure an hour at least had passed when a voice whispered softly in her ear making her stomach fill with icy dread. “You know you could have saved yourself the public display had you accepted my offer. No matter.” The mayor slid closer which left her trapped against the two walls she’d taken refuge by. His lecherous voice slid over her skin making her flesh crawl as he lifted a hand to toy with some of the renegade tresses that had escaped their fastenings. “Once the wedding is over and your husband has his prize, we can dally and no one will be any the wiser.” He wreaked of spirits and as he inched closer still Rosalind had to fight the nausea that caused her to gag. She brushed his hand away from her hair before planting her palm to his chest with a shove. “I will not tarnish the vows I take.” She stated clearly. Rosalind was a little dismayed that her physical show had no effect on the stodgy man who leered at her. “You know the rumors about your future husband don’t necessarily paint him as the…loyal type. He’ll tumble a maid, or a young noble woman, perhaps. Or both?” The greedy, drunken fool had the audacity to laugh gleefully at her as he returned his hand to her hair which dislodged the floor her father had tucked into the locks earlier that evening. “Why should you stay at home keeping your vows when your husband surely won’t?” Rosalind caught his wrist as he trailed his fingers away from her hair and across her cheekbone, shoving his hand away once more. She needed a bath. A stiff drink. “You now that’s likely where he is now? He danced with you and then ran off to frolic in the arms of another?” “Well, well, what have we here.” Galen said quite gaily from just behind the Mayor, his voice quite pleased sounding, although any fool could look into his eyes and see that the smile and jovial tone stopped well short of ever reaching there. Indeed, there was an expression deep within his dark eyes that he had never worn before, and likely would not recognize in himself, and that was the look of a man ready and quite willing to kill. “And what a flattering opinion you have, Mayor. Both of me, and to be perfectly frank, yourself. I am sure none of this will color any of my future judgements.” Galen’s voice did not, for a second waiver from its friendly tone, for all the fact that he found himself inexplicably enraged. He had just come back from a rather spirited and hurried conversation after all. There were, in total, perhaps a handful of men that Galen trusted utterly and completely with his secret life, but thank the heavens that his parents coach driver was one of them. It was a quick, yet detailed and rather earnest discussion the two held, not a second of it idle chatter. For all his noble responsibilities (which granted he ignored more than most) Galen was not going to be whisked off to some château in the sky without some chance at an escape plan! And certainly not without his best fencing blades! No, it took a bit of doing to get all of that planned without falling under his parents seeking eyes, but soon enough he was reentering the party once more wearing the face of the slightly begotten (surprisingly easy to wear) young man. Only to find his bride to be, and not without a considerable amount of searching, sequestered in a rather private corner with the vile Mayor! Thinking this is a disgustingly intimate encounter, Galen moved up slowly until he heard the rather pointed words the Mayor had been leveling his way. Good god he wondered,does that people say? Stepping closer, Galen insinuated himself next to his bride to be, arrogantly showing his back to the Mayor. “Now, Rosalind, about that dance we discussed? Unless the Mayor has a different kind of dance in mind for me? A more permanent kind? No? Pity that!” Taking the hand Rosalind had just used to toss the Mayor’s hand away, Galen turned, hoping to lead her away, if not to the dance floor, at least away from the swine. A riot of emotions clashed in Rosalind’s mind. She was still disgusted and riled up by the mayor’s advances, and it took all of her willpower not to knock the smug look from his face. She desperately wished for the simple attire she wore on her brother’s ship because it allowed her to carry a knife which she just might have used to teach the odious man a lesson. Furthermore, she also felt relief as a voice cut through the quietude that followed the Mayor when he wanted a moment alone. Panic settled in right after when she realized it was not her father to the rescue, but Galen. Rosalind stiffened until she stood straighter than Galen’s starched white shirt as she forced her gaze to his face. It was not the best of situations to be caught in and not one she’d ever wanted to be in, but Rosalind was well aware of how it might look. Galen’s voice carried a note of gaiety, laughter that failed to reach his eyes. The deep seeded rage she saw in his dark gaze surprised her. She couldn’t look away as he inserted himself between the Mayor and herself, taking her hand in his as the bite in his words caused the little man to splutter with anger. “Now see here!” The Mayor started, but it didn’t look like Galen cared. Anger rolled from his body in waves that stole her breath as he led her away from the corner she’d hoped to hide in. Before they’d gone too far Rosalind stilled their progress, so her words would reach the mayor who watched them depart. “Do you know, Galen that I think at least half of the circulated rumors were started by the mayor? I am convinced he intentionally Mars the reputation of men to make their wives think they are unfaithful. Now it’s entirely true that not all husbands are faithful. He sees something he wants and manipulates through vile words.” Rosalind glanced over her shoulder at the stodgy, fat man with a sweet smile as his face turned purple with rage. He tripped a few steps towards them, but Rosalind turned her back to him and allowed Galen to lead her off. She desperately wanted to tell him she hadn’t asked for the mayor’s fancy. She wanted to explain that it had not been her intention to find herself trapped with the vile man’s hands in her hair. The thought of it made her shudder and long for a very hot bath. She’d have to burn this dress. Pity, she was rather fond of the color. They bypassed the dance floor. Rosalind didn’t much care to be the center of attention again and knew her parents would be aware Galen had returned. They wanted to depart earlier rather than later, but she wasn’t quite ready to be stuck in a carriage with her whole family. Not yet, not while she could still see the anger in his eyes. Perhaps if she could get him to smile again? She pondered for a moment before she tugged gentle at his hand to get him to stop moving. They’d left the ballroom behind and stood in an empty hall leading towards the front of the house. Her lips curved as she offered him a small, hopeful smile. “You won’t be to put out if I offend all high society by donning a belt with all of my evening wear. A belt that might just happen to have a sheath attached to it. And in the sheath, a dagger.” Her smile turned sassy as she squeezed his hand gently in an effort to lighten the mood. “I’ll use it to stab the next man who thinks he can back me into a corner.” She shuddered again as thoughts of the mayor flitted through her mind. Galen lead Rosalind through the ballroom, his mind more on the Mayor behind them than on where they were going, so it as perhaps some sixth sense or undiscovered bit of tact that led him to remove them from the raucous crowd. Ignoring the Mayor’s words, but very keen for if the man should call out against them or rush to intercept, Galen still had enough attention to answer Rosalind’s observation.“Oh, I have no surprise at learning that. The man is a snake, for all that he is a fat one. From what I hear his methods at becoming Mayor and staying there were rather unsavory, so hearing he uses trickery and blackmail to bed women is not at all…..er…” Galen’s words trailed off slightly in embarrassment, realizing once again who he was talking to, and perhaps such words as ‘bedding women’ might be a little inappropriate. As they reached the empty hall and Rosalind brought him to a stop, Galen turned to face her directly, putting the ballroom behind him, and as he looked down, finding a smile to match hers growing on his lips. Galen was of course a young man, andveryaware that he was quite alone with a rather beautiful young woman, and while that made his stomach tighten with nerves, it did not stop him from stepping slightly closer.“Why, Rosalind Tremaine! I am positively scandalized!” He replied, affecting the tone of the over powdered women in the ballroom behind him, his face betraying total shock, although he could not keep a bit of laughter from creeping into his impression. “I mean, wearing a dagger openly to stab men!” Leaning in slightly closer, Galen found his hands ever so lightly landing on Rosalind hips as he whispered into her ear, his tone once more his own. “Don’t you know it would be more fun to use a dagger previously hidden? For instance one placed right about he…” Wherever Galen was about to suggest Rosalind hide a dagger, and considering her dress style and material it was unlikely to be place he should be speculating on in public, would have to remain a mystery for at that very moment his mother’s voice called out from the end of the hall.” There you are!” She said in a somewhat exasperated tone, clearly displeased with having to search out her wayward child.” Is Rosalind with…ah, good. Lord and Lady Tremaine were just looking to depart, and are just waiting on you two.” The lovely older woman continued, moving close enough to spot Rosalind behind her slightly taller son, her eyes flashing as they noted the narrow distance between them.” And none too soon it seems. Hurry along now, Galen. I know Rosalind’s parents were looking for her. They were just saying their farewells to the Mayor.” Rosalind was not at all rebuffed by his words as he spoke of the Mayor’s ill deeds and vices. She’d heard far worse aboard her brother’s ship where the men did little to curb their tongues in her presence. Relieved, soft laughter escaped past her growing smile as she watched amusement chase the dark rage from his expression. He stepped closer to her, and she was suddenly very much aware of the space their bodies occupied. They were no closer than when they had been dancing until he leaned down to whisper in her ear. Rosalind knew she was in trouble. He assaulted her senses all at once with the brush of his lips against her sensitive flesh. He lacked the overly perfumed smell that often accompanied the close presence of the pompous peacocks that vied for her attention. Instead, he smelled fresh, clean and natural. His musky scent appealed to her, and it left her off balance. The pressure of his hands on her waist coupled with how close he now stood and the kiss of his breath against her ear made everything else disappear. Nothing else existed at that moment except for the two of them. Rosalind lifted her hands palms flat against his chest, but she made no effort to push him away. Instead, her fingers curled into his shirt slightly as if she were using him to anchor herself upright, but she would never admit how much he affected her. For all of her innocence, Rosalind was neither a prude nor completely unaware of the intended nature of his words. Pink stained her cheeks, her breath caught in her throat as she waited for him to finish the thought. It was at that moment that his mother’s words drifted down the hall startling her back to reality. Rosalind wasn’t sure if she was thankful for the distraction or dismayed by his mother’s interruption, but she knew better than to tarry when she noted Lady Hillsdale’s disposal. “Perhaps I will leave the use of daggers, hidden or obvious, to my intended.” She murmured softly so that only he could hear. Rosalind brushed past him and linked arms with Esmeralda as she headed towards the front entrance without a backwards glance. “It’s a shame you won’t make it out tonight, My Lady. Why, half of the party will make an appearance before traveling back to town. Galen and I have already said our farewells to the Mayor and thanked him for his kindly announcement of our engagement.” Rosalind stepped thankfully from the overly ornate house with a sigh. She continued to chatter about nothing as she descended towards the waiting carriage as her parents appeared in a flourish behind them. Goodbyes’ were said as the Tremaine family plus Galen alighted into the lush carriage. Rosalind had intended to sit by her parents, but in the confusion her parents and younger brother ended up smugly across from her as she sat beside her husband to be. Her thoughts drifted back to the moment they’d shared alone in the hallway, to the look in his eyes when he’d saved her from the Mayor and to how very much aware she was of how close they sat to one another. She paid little attention to the conversation as her father addressed his soon-to-be son-in-law. “We look forward to having you as a part of the family, young Galen. As you know our Rosalind is used to a particular lifestyle and luxury. Your father and I have discussed your future and the future of our businesses while we worked through how best to make sure she remained content in her life with you.” Lord Tremaine barely paused for a breath as he spoke almost sternly to the young man. The horse-drawn carriage plodded forward as her father discussed in great detail the intricate workings of the business he ran and how it was almost parallel to Lord Hillsdale’s enterprise. Rosalind could just see the house coming into view as her father finally made his point. “Your father and I have decided to set you both up in town with a nice house to start your lives together as our wedding present. We have decided to put you to work so that you may earn your keep in the business. You will have an office and be in charge of one of the smaller trades and fleets. We haven’t decided which, but there is time enough for that, and you may have your say when the time comes. What say you?” Her father sat back as if he’d just granted Galen a great honor to be working as a partner with both of the older men. At that moment the carriage pulled to a stop and per tradition her whole family stepped down from the carriage. They stood at the wide drive leading up towards the darkened house. Her parents linked arms and began walking towards the group of servants that waited half way. With their first steps down the drive all the torches flared to life one by one. Behind them other carriages pulled to a stop and bodies rushed to join them for the show. In her eagerness to be home Rosalind had forgotten to wait for Galen and now turned to find him in the crowd. If he wasn’t beside her, she’d move to stand next to him, her fingers brushing against his. The servants bore trays of refreshments and glasses of champagne which were offered to the crowd. Once everyone had been served all eyes turned towards the towering house. Unseen hands pulled at ropes attached to the boards bringing all of them down with a clatter. Rosalind knew they’d been loosened earlier that day in preparation for their arrival. Now the house stood bare under the moonlight. Dark windows stared back at them as the pale light glittered off their surface. Suddenly, one by one, candles winked into life in each of the windows. The show put on the Mayors house failed to compare to the atmosphere as they stood watching the house come to life. It was almost romantic if not for the crowd that oohed and awed appropriately, but Rosalind wasn’t looking at the house. Er gaze had turned towards the ocean. She could taste the salt in the wind that drifted across the crowd. Off in the distance while everyone was distracted by the unveiling she watched for something and there! A series of flashing lights told her Edward was home and that he’d meet her later when all were abed. She turned back just in time to see the top most floor of the house come to life. The windows here were different. They had been intricately cut in an array of colors that caught the dancing light from the candles and magnified it tenfold. Everyone around them began to clap in earnest as they finished their champagne and headed back to their carriages. Some would return to the Mayor’s party and others home to prepare for the ball her parents would throw tomorrow night. “I believe we should all tuck in for the night!” Her father exclaimed as he leads the way into their summer home. They were greeted by Marc, the butler who had served them faithfully for years. Servants took wraps and coats as her parents headed for the stairs. “Rosalind, show Galen to his room. He’ll stay in Edward’s old room across from yours. Marc will be up momentarily to see if he needs anything else.” At many times in his life Galen disagreed with his family, was angered by them, was ready to throw it all away and leave them behind, but never in all of his days had he mentally cursed them as he did in that exact moment when his mother appeared behind him in the hallway, her voice cutting in and ending what was shaping up to be quite the moment. Letting his own hands fall, with extreme reluctance, Galen fell in behind his mother and bride to be as they made their way outside, sighing to himself and staying out of the small talk. Once they were all outside, it was a flurry of goodbyes all around, even though many people would indeed be seeing the Tremaine’s very soon for their unveiling. Of course there were plenty of those NOT invited who thought perhaps a few more kind words or congratulations to the new couple would elevate them enough to be included; a faction of people that Galen had absolutely no time for. Even his goodbyes to his own family were rather curt and formal, although his mother did seem a little genuinely concerned. Probably for his behavior if he was being honest. Climbing into the carriage, Galen was utterly shocked to find himself pressed in beside Rosalind, and it took all of his willpower to pull himself away from that distraction, and pay even the slightest attention to what Lord Tremaine was going on and on about. As the powerful Lord described his business, and Galen’s family’s own. In almost painful detail, the young man tried vainly to keep his eyes from glassing over in first boredom, and then growing horror. They expected him to sit in some office somewhere, sending other men off to adventures unknowing (ok, it was shipping, but there COULD be adventures) while he added and subtracted numbers?! It was an utter gift that Rosalind was there, so close beside him, for the distraction of the clean smell of her hair, the feel of her thigh against his every time the road bumped, was enough to keep his feelings from showing on his face. As the older man stopped talking, at last, Galen put on his best awed face. “Well, that is very generous, Lord Tremaine. Indeed, it is far more than I….” cutting himself off before he responded honestly with ‘expected’, Galen continued smoothly, “could have hoped for.” Luckily the carriage soon drew to a halt, thankfully with Galen on the outer side, so that he could be the last to depart (although this did not stop him from watching his lovely wife to be departed. Once outside, Galen found himself standing alone, and was just starting to feel rather awkward when Rosalind found him and no sooner did her fingers brush against his than he meshed them together. It was wise to keep up appearances after all, or at least that is what he told himself he was doing. As the unveiling began, Galen watched raptly. Not one for pomp and circumstance mostly, he was nevertheless impressed by the show the Tremaine’s were putting on, one he had heard of many times before, but had yet to witness. Sipping at his champagne, Galen turned his head slightly to ask a soft question of Rosalind, only to find to staring far to sea with a distant look. Well, it probably was boring after you’ve seen this a few times, let alone heard it being planned over and over, he thought. The Lord Tremaine’s next words were a surprise though, as Galen had not expected them to call it a night just yet, although it was getting a bit late. Hiding his surprise, and his smile, at the sound of where his room were to be, Galen was all smiles and handshakes as he was congratulated time and time again, although as they were led inside, he thought perhaps he was getting something of a sour look from the butler, and expression that only increased as Rosalind herself was going to show him to his room. Keeping his hand linked with his bride to is, indeed he had forgotten it was there, it was resting so easily, Galen enjoyed his look around at the house as they made their way through the beautifully appointed mansion. After they reached the second floor, the house seemed to become more and more quiet until it seemed as if they could be the only two present.“Right across the hall, hmm? Well, it seems I won’t have far to go if I have any questions.” Galen grinned widely, releasing Rosalind’s hand as he turned to face her directly. Rosalind refused to admit to the skip of her heart beat and to the flutter of butterflies when he entwined their fingers together. The sudden lack of warmth of his hand as he released hers while turning to face her caused a sinking feeling she didn’t recognize. This boy, she decided, could be trouble. Heat rose to her cheeks as she recalled his unfinished comment from earlier. Dim candlelight chased shadows across the hall in a never ending dance that made the look in Galen’s eyes a little more intense. Rosalind stepped closer keeping her gaze on his as her lips curved in a small smile. She was about to ask him to finish his thought when a very polite and refined cough alerted them they were not alone.“Pray forgive me, Sir, but should you have any questions or need any assistance you may summon any of the staff. The young lady ought to not be disturbed during the night.” Marc directed a very disproving look towards the inappropriate closeness of the newly betrothed couple. Rosalind hastily moved away from Galen towards her own room across the hall. Marc remained focused on the younger man as she retreated. “Good night, Galen.” She ignored the sniff of displeasure from the long-time family butler who did not approve of their use of given names so quickly. “I will see you at breakfast.” She offered with another smile before she slipped into her bedroom leaving the two men to sort out their differences without her. Rosalind wasted no time shedding the simple gown. She could still feel the press of the Mayor and wanted nothing more to do with the dress. The maids new her well and had left an elegant tub filled with warm water for her bath. She slipped into the water with a happy sigh and quickly cleaned the ball and carriage ride from her body. Rosalind was careful to keep her hair dry by leaving it secured as she bathed. Once done she toweled herself off and pulled a well-hidden, plain cedar chest from her closet. She relished the moment as she opened the chest and pulled a pair of simple black trousers, black boots, a simple black leather vest, a billowy white shirt and a belt that she could secure a pistol and rapier to. Her fingers moved over the material of her clothes as she slowly pulled them on. To her these garments represented freedom from the oppression of her social class and gender. Something about leaving the idle gossip and unnecessary, often scandalous actions, of the nobility behind made her feel like a phoenix who had been reborn. Once dressed she pulled her rapier and pistol from the bottom of the chest and slid them into their places on her belt which sat on the curve of her hips. Edward often teased her for her choice in attire because his crew never wore the silly fashions that pirates were known for. Rosalind liked the romance in the ideal and dressed to match. Now ready to go meet Edward she crept to the door and cracked it. The hall was not void of both Galen and Marc, and so she exited her room leaving her door slightly ajar. Silently she stole through the house towards the kitchens where cook always left a prepared package of sweet rolls, meat pies and flasks of Edward’s favorite wine. She snagged the bag of food from the counter and passed through the kitchen door and into the night without a hitch. A handful of the servants knew about her adventures and were happy to see brother and sister spend time together despite the family squabble. Rosalind hurried towards the edge where a path snaked down the cliff-face towards a hidden cove and beach that could not easily be reached from the ocean. The path remained hidden from those inside the house making it seem as if she simply vanished from sight once she started her trek downwards. Moonlight illuminated her steps, but she’d descended the roughly hewn path so many times she could do it blindfolded. Halfway down light flickered from the sandy beach below telling her Edward was already there. Moments later she could feel the crunch of sand beneath her boots as she reached the bottom. Rosalind hurried forward where a lone figure crouched by a small fire. “Edward!” She exclaimed as her speed increased. Rosalind dropped the bag of goodies just before her older brother wrapped her in a fierce hug as laughter echoed back at them off of the stone walls.“Little Flower!” His laugh filled her heart with happiness as he finally set her back on her feet. Eagerly he stooped to retrieve the discarded food bag which he rummaged through pulling out a chunk of bread and a wedge of cheese. He tore both in half and offered her some as they settled down by the fire. “Tell me all the latest news, Rosa and once we’re all caught up we can set out for the Constance. “ Laughter twinkled in his eyes as he devoured his portion of the food. Rosa’s stomach dropped, and she found she had no appetite. “I cannot, Edward.” Her shoulders slumped as she stared down at the food in her hands. “Our parents sold me off. I’m set to be married by the end of the season and the young man is staying in your old room. Mother and father thought it is a wise and happy plan to have him stay with us for the coming summer.” Taken aback by her news, Edward chocked on the bite of food he’d been in the process of chewing. “Who? What…?” He spluttered much to Rosalind’s amusement. She couldn’t help the bubble of laughter that caught in her throat as he struggled to accept what she’d told him. At the very moment that a rather polite but insistent cough interrupted them, Galen was of the distinct impression that he and Rosalind were clearly cursed to never have a moment alone. Or perhaps he was simply the one cursed? Either way, with a grin and a spin, Rosalind was out of his just about to close arms, and wishing him a good night before closing her door. “Oh, and a good night to you to, Rosalind.” He replied, putting a smidgen of emphasis on her name, having detected that SNCF of disapproval as well. Indeed, Galen then turned to the very sniffer in question, putting on his most annoying urbane voice since Rosalind was safely out of earshot. “Summon any of the staff. Any. Indeed, I shall be well reminded of that, Marc, I assure you.” Grinning wider, Galen made for his door, before pausing briefly. “A fellow of my own House will be arriving shortly with a package for me. Morning at the latest. Do please see that it is left with the rest of my things, or given to me directly. That is all.” Noting but ignoring the steely look of dislike deep in Marc the Butler’s eyes, Galen could barely contain a chuckle as he entered his own rooms. For the summer at least. Perhaps. Wandering from room to room, bedroom to parlor, Galen loosed his clothing, tossing the vest and kicking off his boots as he came to stand on the balcony, overlooking the gardens, the jungle beyond and the sea far beyond that. Taking a seat on the stone railing, Galen looked far out to sea, understanding exactly how, if rumors were to be believed, Edward Tremaine could be seduced to leaving all of this behind for the sea. Sighing deeply, Galen was considering his own dabbling in just such a life when he spotted movement far below. Squinting, he leaned over further to see just who was moving through the gardens this late at night, especially after the Lord of the House had sent them all to bed. It was pirate! Or perhaps an actor dressed as a pirate… Either way, the person was positively skulking, and there was only one reason a person would do that. Clearly, this was a thief, probably robbing the house before the Opening, and caught in the bustle, only now finding a chance to escape. Scowling, Galen thought only briefly before he was swinging his legs over the railing and climbing down the almost clichéd ivy below. The thief was moving with quick, sure steps, and he’d lose them before he had time to put in his boots, although grabbing his boot dagger took but a second. Just think of the gratitude of the Tremaine’s if he caught a robbing them red-handed! They’d probably offer him a Captain ship of his own, instead of some office. Think of the look in Rosalind’s eyes as he saved her mother’s jewels. Surely her gratitude and thanks would be even more satisfying…. Exploring those thoughts, Galen reached the end of the gardens, and was suddenly sure the thief had somehow disappeared. It took the young noble more than a few seconds to find the neatly obscured path, but soon enough he was padding his way down the worn trail after them, although noticeably slower. It took some time, and a few falls as he ducked off the path, afraid of spooking the thief, but soon enough Galen reached the bottom of the path, noting not one but TWO figures standing by the small fire. Suddenly just a dagger did not seem a great idea. Perhaps I’ll just get a look and identify the thieves for later… He thought, noting pistols AND swords at each one of their hips. Moving away from the path and deeper into the brush, Galen was a silent as he could be, although the few rustles he made seemed insanely loud to him. As he moved Galen kept his eyes on the pair, for something kept niggling at his mind.Finally, as close as he could get, Galen dropped to his belly and scooted to the very end of the brush, stopping with a shock as he heard one of the pirates speaking. It was Rosalind! He had been following his fiancé! And now, gazing at the way her belt hung from rather nicely curved hips, and how was it this outfit was far more exciting than even the dress?, he wondered how he had missed it before. Just a word or two later, revealed that this was the very black sheep brother himself, Edward. Well now, this WAS interesting. And they were discussing…..him? Hmph. Well, it seemed his own reputation proceeded him, although what allowed an excelled brother to be so judgmental and protective escaped him. Thinking perhaps he had gotten himself torn at by thorns and missing sleep for nothing, Galen was nearly ready to depart and save this revelation for a moment alone with Rosalind, when the all important word ‘treasure’ rang out of the night. Eyes wide, Galen moved even closer, hoping to hear more. It was nearly impossible from his vantage point to get every detail, but clearly the two, or at least Edward, was on to a grand scheme, a lost treasure of epic proportions, and he had a map. No, most of a map. Pieces of a map? Damn noisy surf! Slithering as far as he dared, Galen nearly revealed himself with a gasp as Edward handed a piece of worn helium to his sister, admonishing her that it was half of what was needed, and a half he had not seen. So, how do I steal that now I wonder? Well, she is right across the ha….no don’t BURN it! Damn it! Galen silently swore, cursing the cleverness of noble pirate girls everywhere. It was just his luck. Lying low in the sand, Galen watched the pair’s plotting turning into nothing more than a family reunion before the pair separated. So busy was Galen’s plotting that he missed if they when and if they agreed to meet again. Watching Rosalind move back up the beach and Edward depart the other way, Galen knew he’d have to move very fast now. Being left at the altar was one thing, being left for TREASURE was quite another. Rude, that’s what it was. Dusting himself off after he decided it was safe, Galen began sneaking his way back up the path, hoping that Marc was not one for midnight strolls. Rosalind woke the next morning well after the sun had peeked over the eastern horizon. She stretched lazily before slipping from under the handstitched comforter. She stared longingly at the feather pillows for a moment knowing if she crawled back in now she could capture the warmth that lingered on the sheets. “Coffee. I think I need coffee or strong black tea.” With the heel of her palm pressed firmly against her forehead, Rosalind ambled lazily towards her closet where a simple, light robe hung. If she’d remembered that her new finance stayed in the house she’d had dressed properly, but for her family a robe over her night gown would suffice. She belted the robe around her waist while pulling her bedroom door open. Sunlight slanted across the floor from the large windows that lined the hall. The door to Edward’s room stood ajar which stuck her as odd, but she didn’t pause to investigate. Softly she padded down the stairs and through the house to the large dining room where a sideboard was set up and the rest of her family sat eating. Rosalind blinked blearily at them trying to make sense of their weird smiles. “Morning?” She offered as she trudged towards the breakfast buffet. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the heavy, mouth-watering scent of bacon, eggs and thick fluffy hot cakes. Rosalind collected a plate and piled it high with heaping food while Marc prepped her coffee. Once seated at the table she tucked in with a heavy appetite that always returned after they reopened their home by the sea. “We were wondering which of you we would see first.” Her mother started with soft laughter and a teasing smile on her lips. Rosalind perked a questioning brow at her parents who both eyed her with laughter in their eyes. “Galen hasn’t been seen yet this morning. Want to be on how late he might sleep?” Bacon lodged itself firmly in her throat as Rosalind dropped her fork in surprise with the flood of memories from last night’s ball. Galen, her soon-to-be husband now slept soundly in Edward’s rooms. Now she remembered why she’d not awoken to the gentle roll of her brother’s ship. Marc calmly settled the coffee cup to the right of her plate before whacking her thoroughly on the back to displace the stuck food. “Pardon, Miss.” He offered stiffly, but she could hear the humor in the undertones of his voice. Her parents were tickled by her reaction as they continued to polish off their plates.“Thanks, Marc” Pink stained her cheeks as she made a show of reaching for her coffee so that she could hide behind the cup. “Stop laughing at me.” She muttered softly as she sipped the heated caramel liquid. It tantalized her senses and helped shake the fog that lingered in her brain. She was about to make a haughty comment about the whole situation when Galen strolled lazily into the room and Rosalind lost her ability to think with clarity. He wasn’t so bad to look at in the morning sunlight that glinted off of the crystal in the room, not so bad at all. “I could get used to waking up to him in the morning.” She admitted to herself causing her to blush even more fiercely. Not wanting to be caught staring, Rosalind dropped her gaze to the half-eaten plate of food in front of her. There were moments from the night before where she could have sworn they almost connected. Moments where they’d been close, close enough to kiss if someone hadn’t continued to interrupt them. Those moments occurred when both of their guards seemed to be down. Moments when it felt like they’d shed the ideas of high society and were just two people getting to know each other. “I need to get away, take a moment before all of this gets out of hand. Perhaps I’ll have time to think and to consider while I help Edward.” She kept her head down hoping no one would notice the lovely shade of red she’d turned as she struggled to find anything else that might help clam her nerves. She allowed her thoughts to travel over the map she’d memorized last night. Her parents drew Galen into conversation, teased him about how late he slept and that he was the last to join them for breakfast. The rest of the night was a complete jumble of both excited wakefulness, and exhausted slumber for Galen as his mind whirled with plan after plan, dreaming and rejecting them all in turn. The problem as he saw it was Edward. Edward, Edward, Edward. The older exiled noble was a total unknown to Galen, so how did he handle him? How did he think? Like a noble? Galen knew how to handle those. A pirate? Galen also knew how to handle those. But both? The only one of those Galen knew was…..well, himself. And thinking that someone would plan and act the same way you did was a sure recipe for disaster. Complication #2, Rosalind. She knew something. Something IMPORTANT, and something that Galen would desperately need if he was going to get to this mysterious treasure first. They had a few good moments last night, ones he very much hopes they could repeat, and for heaven’s sake complete, but he doubted a few good flirts were going to get her to stop wanting to play pirate with her clearly adored brother and throw in with him. Perhaps he could trick her? Probably not. By reputation and his limited experience, she was at least as smart as he, probably more. Chances were just as good she’d get something out of him, and warn her brother about eavesdroppers. And probably would only take a little convincing in her part to have her parents break off the engagement and send him home, and then where would he be? With nothing resembling a decent plan, Galen finally got a few hours down before the streaming sun woke him since he forgot to fully close the curtains, or that damnable Marc had left them open on purpose. Either way, Galen woke, washed and shaved, dressed in a flowing white shirt and tight black breeches and knee boots, unsure what he was in for that day, he figured he would go simple and prepared for whatever. With the morning still early, Galen slipped out into the corridor, passing an early moving Chambermaid with a wide smile and a finger pressed to his lips as he passed her on his way to the gardens. Seeing them in the morning did not help much Galen noted, having nearly as much trouble finding the path’s beginning in the light as he had in the dark. Poking through the shrubbery, trying NOT to look like he was doing so, Galen found another even less used path that seemed to loop around to the road. Hamm. That might be of use, if the beach was off limits. He would have to find a reason to get down to the beach later to see how close Edwards ship was and if he could his in undetected. Busy, busy, busy. Seeing how late it was getting, Galen back upstairs, this time unseen, although as he was opening his door he heard Rosalind’s door opening behind him, and he barely had time to dive in and out of sight, cursing to himself that he did not have time to shut the door. Bracing for her to look in curiously, Galen breathed a deep sigh when instead she moved off. Another quick wash was in order, it was rather warm already this season, but Galen had luckily kept his clothing fresh throughout his search, so he did not need to change before heading downstairs to breakfast. Shaking his spine, Galen straightened and put on his best noble face before strolling into the dining room with all the swagger one could expect from a young noble fellow. “Good morning every…one.” Galen greeted the assembled Tremaine’s, his voice only hitching for a second as he saw Rosalind clearly in the morning light. With her loosely tied robe and tousled hair, Galen found her even more stunning than the night before, and he quite urgently found himself wanting to be the one who did all the tousling from now on. Doing a far worse job of not staring than his fiancé had done, he was finally saved by the teasing of Lady Caterina about his lateness to breakfast.“I’d love to say I was merely hoping to be fashionable late, Lady, but the truth is late lovely sea air through my open window made my sleep difficult to leave.” He grinned, only the slightest emphasis on the word ‘open’ as he gazed over at Marc, looking for the slightest look on guilt or satisfaction on the man’s face and finding neither. Instead, he turned to his future bride and his expression only grew wider. “Rosalind, you look lovely this morning. Remind me again to thank our parents respectively.” As a full plate of food was placed Galen reached across to pour himself a large cup of juice, ignoring social convention that he should have asked and had to be poured for him. The prepared food was enough, surely.“I do hope I am not intruding too much on your homecoming. I’d love a tour of the house and grounds, I do love the outdoors, but I can fend for myself as I am sure you are all quite busy.” He continued, holding the business discussions he could already see forming on Lord Tremaine’s lip. After all, he’d seen that look before, just on a different face. It came as a small surprise to Rosalind how much she liked hearing her name on Galen’s lips. Laughter danced in her chocolate gaze as Marc coughed disapprovingly from somewhere behind her chair with the ease of informality they’d adopted.“Galen, please remember to thank each of our parents. Respectively, of course.” She quipped softly by way of greeting, her blank expression almost ruined by the smallest upturn of her lips.“Rosalind!” her mother exclaimed reprovingly. Lady Caterina’s voice wavered with amusement as she scolded her only daughter. “That is not the proper way to respond to someone’s greeting. I swear we come home, and you begin to at more and more like your brother.” Caterina finally succumbed to the bubbling joy, her giggling fit a contagion that spread quickly through the family and staff. Even Marc managed a genuine smile as they all settled to their breakfast once more now all smiles and lighthearted chatter. For Lord Tremaine this consisted of commentary about his latest business venture that was sure to one up his competition. Rosalind continued to pay little mind to the conversation flying around her as her coffee cup magically refilled itself.“Marc, I don’t know how you do it.” She offered thankfully. “I’ve tried a hundred times to prepare it just the way you do, but I swear you must put something in it when I’m not looking.” She cradled the warm cup in her hands as her long time butler’s chest puffed with pride. She settled back in her chair to watch the family and covertly her soon-to-be husband. He filled out Edward’s clothes almost better than Edward did, and she found it hard not to stare. He looked more put together than someone who’d just rolled out of bed after sleeping in. Last night the moonlight had given him a rakish air of mystery. Now in the glint of sunlight there was almost something warm in the way he looked at her, but she couldn’t quite shake the underlying danger that lingered about him. Edward had always carried the same air. It was almost like there was a hidden secret no one else knew. Barred from his favorite topic, Lord Tremaine had led the discussion into the history of their home and the architecture styles chose for its many different aspects. Rosalind only began to pay attention when she heard her name.“…and I’m sure Rosalind would be more than happy to give you an extensive tour of the house and grounds.” Caterina beamed at Galen as if she’d just solved a mystery.“I would?” Rosalind asked, but her question was studiously ignored by her parents who both nodded as if she hadn’t spoken.“She and her brother’s know this house better than Caterina or I do. I would wager they know it better than some of the servants even.” Her father chuckled as he lounged in his chair recalling fond memories. “There were many days we played in this house. I was to find them. Several hours later they always found me. Sneaky ones, those kids were.”“You didn’t want to find us.” Rosalind intoned cheerfully. “You wanted to give us an excuse to go play so you could nap in your study. We just knew how ti give you what you wanted.” With her second cup of coffee now gone and the rest of her plate cold, Rosalind pushed away from the table with a small sigh. “I suppose if I am to give Galen a tour I must go dress for the day.”“Perhaps a picnic would be in order for this afternoon, Rosalind.” Her mother suggested slyly though she feigned innocence quite well. “Marc can chaperone you down to the family beach. Speaking of. Your father and I have another surprise for you and for Marc.” She beamed at their old family butler who stood at the ready. Rosalind smiled at her old confident, but she was sad to notice the ashen color of his skin and new wrinkles. Something about the tired look that lingered in his gaze told her he’d aged over the cool season and not at all well.“Marc is getting older and has served our family well all of these many years. Over the next several months while we finish the wedding preparations he will finish the training for each of his two sons. His eldest son, Nathan, will be going with you to serve as your butler once you are married. His youngest son, His youngest son will stay her as our new butler. Mar, you have been our faithful companion, and we would like to see you retire into the cottage you’ve made your home. We will see to your needs as you live the rest of your life enjoying your days.” It was a family tradition her parents stood by for their long time servants who remained loyal and hardworking. Rosalind firmly believed he’d earned his keep and retirement. “Thank you, Marc. You’ve been a constant friend for all of my life.” There was continued discussion for the training plans and the wedding which she excused herself from with a small curtsy to her parents. Was she supposed to curtsy to Galen? She opted not to, but flashed him a cheeky smile. “I’ll meet you at the bottom of the stairs shortly, Galen.” She hurried through the house and up to her room. She quickly washed as her maid began rifling through her closet for the “perfect outfit”. Rosalind disliked all o the frilly dresses chosen and instead opted for simple. She dressed in a white blouse and simple aqua colored skirt that reminded her of the sea. She’d had the front hemmed so that it picked up in the fro aqua colored skirt that reminded her of the sea. Furthermore, she’d had the front hemmed so that it picked up in the front leaving her boots visible, but freeing her from needing to carry her skirts all day. Furthermore, she tied her hair at the nape of her neck letting it fall freely down her back. She donned the same boots she’d worn to the beach last night and then checked her appearance in the mirror which was not her habit. “It doesn’t matter if he doesn’t like it.” She chided herself. Rosalind squared her shoulders as she quickly left the room and descended the stairs carefully planning her day with Galen out in her head. She didn’t quite like that her nerves wouldn’t settle. Or that the first glimpse she caught of him caused her breath to catch and her heart to race. No, she didn’t care for the way he left her just off balance. Galen relaxed back into his seat, lulled into complacency by the easy banter the Tremaine's shared, something far different from the morning scoldings that he received at the breakfast table at home. Then again, as far as he was aware, they barely knew him here, so he imagined that would change. Or, perhaps not, if he was out of here soon enough. No sooner had that thought let Galen’s mind than his eyes strayed over to Rosalind, namely the cute way she was cradling her cup and the a the golden streams of tropical sun seemed to catch each errant wisp of her hair, turning it a burnished bronze. Or was it gold? He was always partial to gold… Lifting his eyes from the plate he was rapidly cleaning, Galen nodded along as Lord Tremaine regaled him with various boring features of the house, architecture having never really been the young nobles strongest subject. As long as a house was not in danger of falling it was fine with him, a thought almost exclusively reserved for those who lived in a mansion and did not know was a run-down house really was. Grinning wide at the Tremaine’s offer of a tour, and Rosalind’s amusing if not exactly enthusiastic reaction to it, Galen had to almost physically stop himself from telling his fiancé that dressing on his account was not needed at all. Luckily the little bit of tact his parents had managed to instill in him, as well as a dark look from Marc, kept that comment to the confines of his mind, and instead he merely rose and bowed as the he was supposed to be marrying started to depart. Caught standing by the Tremaine’s sudden announcement, Galen stood awkwardly as Marc was, for lack of a better understand, put to pasture. Still, there was not much time to dwell on that, neither the look dawning across Marc’s face, nor the closeness that Rosalind displayed to her long time servant. Instead, there was the possibility of a picnic ahead, and even of that served no purpose to the young nobles goal of finding out more of what Edward sought, there was a very large part of him that rather liked the idea of finally getting some alone time. After all, things had looked promising, several, times before. Waiting an appropriate amount of time for Rosalind to depart to make it not seem as if he was chasing after her, although his shifting from foot to foot certainly did not go unnoticed, Galen made his way as casually as he could to the foot of the stairs to await the arrival of his fiancé. Hearing steps on the stairs behind him as he examined a bust of some past Tremaine, Galen turned and smiled brightly and sincerely as Rosalind descended towards him. And did that not seem fitting!“We meet again. I hope you will forgive me to say that it is not every woman who can both look ready for an adventure and yet stunning at the same time. A marvelous feat.” Galen laughed. “It appears that a picnic is being prepared for us to bring along, so I will have to trust you to guide me where to eat.” He grinned, a bit cheekily in his own right, as he held out his arm. “So, where to first?” “Is not each day a new adventure?” She asked him with a crooked smile as she paused at the landing for a long moment. Her chocolate gaze searched his thoughtfully as she realized that beyond his name and rank she still knew very little about her future husband. “This way.” She turned abruptly and lead him away from where she could still her family’s banter and laughter. “You appeared rather bored this morning as Papa yammered on about our home, so I will not drag you through another lecture of the architecture’s history. Rather, I will show you some of my favorite spots and the gardens before we head out for the picnic. It will be a hike.” She warned him with a look at his attire. He seemed suitably dressed for the walk. She bypassed her father’s study not wanting to disturb any of his work and instead lead him into a large room that encompassed two stories worth of space. The library was crammed with books from end to end and then some. Rosalind had spent days upon days devouring the contents of this room. The far wall boasted of towering windows that filled the room with sunlight and against the windows were cedar window seats piled high with cushions. She stepped to the side allowing Galen to pass her so that she could judge his reaction. She didn’t expect many to love knowledge as she did, but if she feared complete disinterest would separate their interest in a huge margin. She leaned casually against the door frame as he looked about the room. Her list of places inside was slim, but there were some things you didn’t show someone you just met, even if that person was your intended. Some of Rosalind’s favorite places were hidden, secret to those outside of a select few servants and the family. There were tunnels that connected all the bedrooms used by the family that ran down to the secret cove. On that sandy beach was a cave tucked further down the hidden cove. The tunnels all allowed for a quick getaway if you need by. In times of war or attack they could be the difference between survival or death. There were a few false rooms tucked away where she and her brother’s had played a great deal as children. A ghost of a smile flitted across her lips as she recalled childhood memories. With a quick shake of her head she dislodged the thoughts so that she could focus on Galen. Why her parents had entwined her life with his was a secret. They’d threatened marriage before, but she’d assumed they would never go through with it. Was she ever wrong! Still, there were worse choices they could have made. He wasn’t hard to look at, and he seemed to have an easy smile. There was something just under the surface, like he had a secret no one knew. “Lunch is prepared, Ma’am.” Marc appeared at her side announcing they were all ready to leave.“Thank you, Marc.” She murmured. “Come, we’ll search the house later. I do want to show you the gardens, but then we will head off for the beach.” She pushed herself from the wall where she’d been resting and turned towards the hall where Marc still stood eyeing the young man with disposal. “Shall I meet you outside, Ma’am?” He inquired stiffly making it very clear he did not quite want to leave them alone.“Yes please, Marc. We will join you shortly.” She dismissed him with a warm smile, but she wanted a few more moments alone with Galen. To gage him, to understand him. They were going to live the rest of their lives together, but she wanted some measurement of the man before they said their vows. She waited for him just outside the door, her hand outstretched for his. The short time their hands had joined last night had been…surprising. Rosalind didn’t want to admit she liked the warmth of his skin against hers. She didn’t want to admit a lot of things so she simply chose not to think of them as she led him to the gardens he had followed her through last night. A gentle, salty breeze licked at her skirts and stirred the leaves as she wove a careful path through the tropical plants. “According to family tradition, my brother proposed to his wife at this fountain. As did my father and his father for as long as the house has stood.” If he’d taken her hand as she’d offered it, she would release her grip and move away from him to lean over the fountain’s ledge. Intricate carvings wound their way both inside and outside the bowl completing what appeared to be a map of the travels of explorers past. Rosalind’s fingers danced over a well-worn figure that was her great-grandfather. “We like to take tea here in the afternoons. My brothers and I used to play here as children. I can’t tell you how many times we dunked each other in the fountain for reasons I can’t recall now.” Warmth filled her eyes and a smile curved her lips as she fell into nostalgia. She glanced over her shoulder at him before she turned fully and sat on the edge with the water bubbling behind her. Would she bring her children here to play with their grandparents? She hoped for that in her future, hoped to include new memories with the happy ones from her youth. “You’re parents said you wanted a summer home, what would yours be like?” “That sounds splendid to me.” Galen replied, thinking that seeing a few of Rosalind’s favorite spots might give him sine insight into her, or the way she thought perhaps, and thus might make it easier for him to learn her part in her brother’s grand plan. The problem was, that while Galen did indeed know plenty of the young eligible, or at least single, noble ladies of his generation, Rosalind Tremaine was definitely not on that list. And it was not just him. None of his fellows had gotten at all close to her, and any that had tried still bore the scars of her disdain. Yet, she seemed sweet, kind and open to him. It was another mystery on top of far too many existing ones. Walking beside her at a casual pace, Galen nearly groaned as her first favorite place was revealed to be a library. Now, Galen was no stranger to books, and he did in fact find the library fascinating and alluring it its own right, it was the prospect of what this meant to his plans that dismayed him. If the FIRST place Rosalind wanted him to see was her family library, that meant it jumped to her mind immediately, and thus meant she knew it VERY well. Learned woman? A definite plus in his mind, although he doubted his father would agree, or hers for that matter. A learned woman with a secret he desperately wanted? A travesty. It meant she’d quite probably be far better at hiding it than he would be in discovering it. His options just kept narrowing… Strolling to a bookshelf, Galen with great luck came upon a series of books written by one of the world's greatest cartographer and explorers, early editions too!, and was just eagerly easing one from the shelf when that damned ill-timed devil Marc appeared to AGAIN ruin everything. Placing the book back with a disappointed sigh, all negative feelings left Galen’s mind as he saw his fiancés hand reaching back for him. Taking Rosalind’s hand, Galen gave it the briefest of squeezes as they moved out into the gardens and towards a fountain, Marc luckily nowhere to be seen. Stepping closer to the fountain, Galen was glad that Rosalind released his hand, for he knew he had started visibly when she spoke of proposal, but even more surprising was the quickness with which any concerns her words brought out in him faded away. Almost like it was not a bad thought at all…“I don’t think children need much of reason for dunking each other. Or pushing each other off docks or out of trees. At least my brothers and I didn’t.” Galen laughed, moving towards Rosalind, so that as she sat, he stood right before her before he very slowly dropped to one knee right in front of her. Taking her hand in his, he paused for several seconds, simply meeting her eyes, before he finally spoke. “So, this in the proposing fountain you say?” Letting the sentence hang there, a grin spread across Galen’s lips. “I am going to have to bear that in mind…” He said at last, and instead of producing a ring and a grand gesture, he instead produced a leaf that the morning dew had glued to Rosalind’s boot. Rising to sit beside her, he kept her hand in his as he set the leaf floating gently atop the fountain’s water. “My summer home? I guess I never really thought it is much. I would say….something like this. Beautiful gardens, somewhere that children could play and getting into trouble, just not too much.” He laughed again. “Perhaps closer to the water though. No, not closer, but at the same level. I think I’d like to fall asleep every night to the sound of waves.” Making a face, Galen cringed slightly. “That sounded terrible cliché and sappy didn’t it?” Memories of her childhood haunted her thoughts and the sound of distant laughter echoed in her ears as she sat on the lip of the fountain. Sadness over the continued rift in her family chased the smile from her lips. A chill settled over her form until Galen reached for her hand and the sudden warmth of his touch eased the settling despair from her mood. And then she met his gaze. Rosalind froze, visibly startled, as he descended to one knee before her. Her breath caught in her chest and her heart beat a quickened rhythm against her rib cage as she watched him speechless. “Surely not,” she fretted silently. Her commentary about past events hadn’t been a coy attempt at some trinket she thought he owed her. She breathed an audible sigh of relief when the leaf appeared in his hand and ducked her head to hide the fierce blush that spread across her cheeks as he moved to sit beside her. Her gaze drifted over their joined hands as he spoke of what his ideal summer home would be, and she found that she agreed with his desire to be nearer the ocean. As he spoke she leaned subtly inwards pressing against his side. The kernel of an idea formed in her thoughts, a wicked scandalous idea that could get them both berated. Did Rosalind dare put it into motion?“Not too cliché,” she answered softly. “I prefer the water’s lullaby to most others. This house, fond of it as I am, is not entirely practical. IN a storm the massive glass windows are completely unsafe. They also prohibit us from staying her year round. I think my mom likes the flurry of social life, but I could do without the balls and parties.” Rosalind quieted her words before she slipped up and admitted he deep her love for the ocean ran. Given a chance she’d stay aboard ship rocked to sleep by the gentle roll of the water. Her parents would have a field day if they ever discovered her reckless antics. At that moment Rosalind realized that if she was outed it might force their parents to rethink the betrothal, a thought that did not sit well with her. Rosalind straightened slowly and loosened her hand from his grasp. With a half turn she faced him and took a moment to study his profile. Before she could talk herself out of it Rosalind leaned in and brushed a light kiss against his cheek. Rosalind jumped to her feet and hastily backed away from him with her hands clasped tightly together in front of her. “Marc is likely wondering where we are.” She stammered quickly in an effort to cover her unease. Galen, for all his assumed cleverness at living a double life of bored, scandalous noble and amateur pirate, found himself more pleased than ever as the rosy shade of a fetching blush spread is way up Rosalind's neck to kiss her cheeks. The young man was finding he could get very used to the swell he felt in his chest at making his bride to be blush, and while he knew he had another motive here after last night's revelations, that did not mean it was not at all unpleasant to think of spending the rest of one's life in the company of such a lovely and surprising woman as Rosalind Tremaine. Of course, as with many things in Galen's life, both of them really, his pride and pleasure at coming out on top with that blushing look had no time to settle in, before Rosalind completely shocked him with the lightest of brushes of her full lips against his cheek while he had been deep in thought. Gaping for a moment as Rosalind hastily stood, clasping the hands he once more wished to hold before her, and speaking quickly as if to move past what had just happened Galen just stopped himself from raising a hand to his cheek where her lips had touched him at last, but instead stood, unable to resist moving slightly closer to his intended than was strictly necessary. It seemed she made him wish to do several things that way. Taking her hands in his, Galen gave her an rakish grin. "Oh, I don't mind keeping him waiting..." He replied, mainly for a few more moments alone with Rosa, and also because, well it was Marc. "But I should more than likely wait until we have been engaged a full day before I start getting you into trouble." Winking, Galen turned slightly and released one hand so he could loop her arm with his. "Speaking of which, do you think Marc is glad to be retiring? He seems to be very....engaged in his work still." This was a new battlefield. The sudden onslaught of nervousness, the goose flesh that rippled across her skin whenever Galen touched her, and the flutter of butterflies in her stomach all made her feel a little foolish. And excited. But Rosalind was too old to act like a green school girl swept away with her first crush. That alone kept her rooted in place as she fought the urge to run for her room. Rosalind was too distracted by her own unease to be attentive to Galen’s reaction to her bold, albeit chaste, kiss. It came as a small shock when she suddenly found Galen had moved closer, invading the sphere of space she used to keep herself apart from most people. Instead of feeling crowded, however, Rosalind found that she liked the warmth she felt when he was near. At that moment, she forgot how to draw a proper breath as she stared up at him. There was something in the way he looked at her that made her feel acknowledged as more than just a stubborn socialite that wouldn’t marry a suitable match for the sake of title. Her lips curved into a crooked smile as she squeezed his hands and found her voice. “I am not sure if I need any more help to get into trouble. I manage to do that well enough on my own.” What society and her family would say if they knew about her secret double life! What would Galen say? “You could kiss me.” The thought popped into her head, which startled her, and might have popped out of her mouth if he hadn’t chosen that moment to turn away and release her hand. Rosalind wasn’t sure if she was disappointed or relieved that the moment seemed to have passed. Granted a respite from the war that waged in her head and the emotions that left her just off balance, she leads him slowly from the garden arm in arm.“Papa always told me you can determine a many by two things, his dedication and his dreams. Marc lost his wife many years ago leaving him dedicated to two things in life. He had his two sons to raise on his own and he had his work. He has always served us loyally and with maybe just a little judgement.” She grinned thinking back on all f the antics he’d dealt with from the three young Tremaine children. “We didn’t always make it easy on him. Nathan and his brother Alonzo have worked hard the past few years to help make their father’s remaining dream come true. Marc has always wanted to travel, to see the world. To learn. His sons have saved to provide him the funds so that he may.” As they entered the house and turned down the hall Rosalind spied one of the young men she’d just been speaking of. “I have an idea, if you don’t mind tent’s wrath.” A wicked gleam sparkled in her eyes as she turned to look up at him with daring smirk.” It was a challenge. Something in her posture and devil may care expression shouted, I dare you to. “Take a second to consider it.” She slipped her arm from his and hurried down the hallway to speak to Nathan who glanced over her shoulder to stare at Galen as she spoke. Her thoughts raced and tumbled one over the other. What would he do? How adventurous was he? As soon as Rosalind began speaking about Marc and the dedication he had displayed to the apparently troublesome Tremaine children, Galen regretted asking. He had already been building a good “me vs him” mentality, and the last thing he needed was his future wife going ahead and humanizing him. And there was one thing HIS father had taught him, it was ‘don’t ask questions that you don’t want the answer to’ and here he had gone ahead and broken it. Then again, as his hidden life of piracy had displayed, Galen was an absolute professional at ignoring his father’s advice and wishes. A thing that Galen had no doubt about was that he was rapidly growing smitten with young Rosalind Tremaine, enough so that ha was beginning to doubt all he had been hearing about her over the last year. Surely the stunning young woman flashing him a wicked smile could not be the same stiff, inapproachable girl he had been fearing. As Rosalind dashed off before he could answer, Galen did not even think to mask his open appreciation of easy grace with which she moved, only finally realizing exactly what he had done when he looked up to meet Nathan's carefully expressionless gaze. Meeting that look with an irrepressible grin, Galen pretended to take that moment to consider before walking up behind his fiancé.“Well, my dear Rosalind, you may consider your unspoken but undeniable challenge accepted.” Galen replied grandly. If she was not concerned with sharing whatever plan she had with Nathan, why would he shy from accepting it. After all, herring do was his specialty, and he was quite sure he could handle anything a noble lady threw at him. “Let’s see about some of that trouble you spoke of.”

Finding Treasure Island - Lyralie and Swashbuckler|rating:4.0

Don't Blink [Blue + Chokuro]

Well, it was a good run while it lasted. Like always, he was torn away from his companions for one reason or another- and as always, it was his fault. Sure, Donna was safe and sound at home, but at the price of her memories and the self-confidence she had gained during her journeys. The TARDIS felt rather empty, now that it was occupied by only one person, but maybe traveling alone would be good for him. He had managed it during the lowest point of his life. Maybe another Rose would come along eventually to pick him back up on his feet if he Diana?’t do so soon enough. A quick trip to the planet Formulas would clear his mind a bit. He was all set to do so, but then he heard his screwdriver make an odd noise-one he Hanna?’t heard in a while. It was a faint beeping noise- a homing device. He had set it long ago to detect individuals or small groups of aliens that were on a planet that wanna?’t their own-it was his own way of trying to find if any of his own kin had survived the Time War, as low as those chances were. Unfortunately, he knew that this was not tracking down a Time Lord, since it would have beeped at a different tone and rate. Still, it worried him faintly. Usually these were the most dangerous on Earth, since small groups were easier to slip through security nets and cause trouble that wouldn?’t be noticed until it was too late. Well, looks like Formulas was going to have to wait. Beaming at the thought of adventure, he packed a large suitcase full of clothes, gadgets, and whatever he could fit inside and made his way out to mingle with the humans again. Oh, wait?¦ he needed money. Stupid currency. He backtracked to a room deep within the TARDIS and began to rummage through all sorts of drawers until he found one marked, â?? England- 1990-2057â??. Inside was the proper currency he needed, and he stuffed his pockets and bag full of it. He wanted to make sure he had enough and he Diana?’t want to make more trips to the TARDIS than necessary, just in case this alien wanna?’t very friendly and followed him to his last link to Gallery. He withdrew his screwdriver and toyed with it to lock on to this one life form and, after wandering through the streets like a lost fool, came across a lodging house. Oh, this was going to be fun. It had been a while since he posed as a human-well, without rearranging his entire genetic make-up, that is. The Doctor headed to the door and knocked. A friendly-looking couple answered. After a half hours?’s worth of chatting and charm, the Doctor was given a key and a room to the house. According to his sonic, the other being been right down the hall from his room. He switched off the homing device and entered his new quarters and left the door open as he unpacked, just in case the person happened to pass by. Earth. Oh, how lovely it was. He truly loved it. 70% water. Great place for an Indian like himself. He just loved everything about Earth. As long as he kept his shirt on, no one ever noticed him. Well, that was a lie. He was noticed. He made himself noticed. Furthermore, he just was never too noticed that it made people think he was something he was not. Furthermore, he so loved that he was able to have that. Furthermore, he got to swim, and since Earth made those neat shirts that covered up the torso, but could still absorb water, he was even better off. Sure, he got strange looks when he did not come up from the water for ... hours, but hey! He still had far too much fun. He just loved being able to swim here. It was a good vacation. What was better was the house he was staying at was so close to the ocean! It made everything thousands of times better than it had been. He truly was thinking about moving here. Well, not by choice. His ship broke. Very, very broken. He had intended to come to Earth, but not so soon, and not as fast as his ship was hurling toward the earth. That was bad. Now, his ship was broken. He was pretty sure someone was after him, and oh! He needed to get parts. That were only on his planet. That was such a dandy little thing. He did not like that he was forced to be here, but he really was beginning to accept that fact. Gladly accept it too. Sure, Parthians were not as accepting as his home planet, but they truly were gorgeous to watch. Especially on the beach. OOO. Such gorgeous beings! Walking through the halls of his housing, Turtle was going to go ... somewhere that he forgot. And how? By walking by the room right next to his. Some gorgeous suit-clad male bent over? Oh, yes. He was stopping to check that out. Blatantly too. Subtle was never really in the boy's dictionary. His head lightly tilted to the side, eyes traveling along the gorgeous rump in the air. Definitely a delicious specimen. That really was nice. Very, Very nice. That just added to the list of why he loved this place. Moving over to the doorway, he rested against the door frame, his arms loosely crossed over his torso. He looked over at the man a little bit more before lightly clearing his throat. "Hello, there. New here, I take it?" He asked, a warm smile pulling o his lips as he looked over the man once more. His eyes stayed with the other and his fingers lightly tapped on his sides, just utterly happy to have walked down the hall now. Yep. He definitely could get used to this place even more if he got to see him every day. Though, there was definitely something different about him. Honestly? He could not care less about that. If he was this gorgeous just behind him, then how could he not enjoy being here? It Diana?’t take too long for the Doctor to unpack. There really wanna?’t much that needed care for. Most of his clothes were folded and tucked into the drawers within minutes. Any gadgets he Diana?’t need prying eyes to see were thrown haphazardly in the bottom drawer of his dresser. Everything else that wanna?’t clothes or secret stuff was littered on top of his dresser-which included his tooth brush, an empty notebook, a comb, and the farewell card Wilfred had made him. It was a nice thing for him to do, and keeping cards that meant something close by seemed like a human thing to do, so it helped him with his cover. While he had been unpacking, he managed to find his favorite pair of glasses-oh, he had been looking for those for a while. Good thing he managed to toss them in to his suitcase in his packing frenzy. Rather pleased at the surprise, he put them on. He had just been hanging up the last of his jackets in the closet when he heard Turtle step in and the Doctor could easily sense that this guy wanna?’t entirely human. He spun around, cautious at first but by the looks of it, the other Diana?’t look too keen on attacking just yet. In fact, he was even kind enough to start a conversation. For now, he had to act as human as possible. Â?? Oh, hello there!â?without sparing a second, he approached the other and then took one of Turtle's hands into his own and shook it enthusiastically. Â?? Iâ?’m John?¦ and you are?â? John? How boring. The shorter male pouted just a bit at his name. He did not seem like a 'John' to him. Maybe a Paul or a David ... but John? It was just so ordinary and boring. The name definitely did not fit the other. He truly was tempted to give him a new name, but figured that it was a little too soon in their friendship to do such a thing. Oh, yes. He was going to make him his friend. Why? Because friends spent time together. Spending time together meant getting closer and getting closer potentially meant sex! Oh, how sex with him would be just lovely. Toned body. Tall, lean... Lovely hair. His mossy-green eyes traveled along the other's spiky hair for a few moments before realizing his hand was being shaken and a question asked. "Ah. Name. Turtle." He stated, giving him a shining little smile. His five-foot four form barely stood up to the other, not that it mattered. His height never mattered. Only made things better. "Sorry for the zoning out. I haven't really made any acquaintances yet." He admitted and shrugged his shoulders a little bit more. "You are new to town, right?" he asked, perking up even more and his eyes sparkled with his utter enjoyment. "How about I treat you to dinner, hm? Show you some sights. The ocean is beautiful!" He would love an excuse to go near the water again, and going there with this cutie? That would make his life so much better. Okay, so John was a bit of a boring name, but it helped out the Doctor in situation like these. If someone ever wanted to do a background check on him, well... good luck trying to figure out which 'John Smith' in the database he was. Besides, with a name like 'Turtle', most other names were painfully bland. He probably wouldn't care if Turtle ended up giving him a nickname. It wouldn't be the first time someone did that to him and besides, it's not like he was incredibly attached to a name that wasn't his, anyway. Hell, even 'Doctor' wasn't his real name but at least liked it a lot." Turtle, huh? Well, it's a pleasure to meet you," he responded. So far, the guy didn't really look like a threat. Maybe he was one of the rare few (okay, not so rare since there would be millions of aliens that would come here that meant no harm, but that was further in the future) that came to Earth or was stuck here and meant to live a normal life on this planet. The welcoming attitude and kindness was a bit surprising, since a lot of the aliens he had come across lately were more than willing to lop his head off. However, he wasn't going to complain. Right now, it seemed that Turtle was being genuine with his help and the guy seemed pretty eager to go out and about, too. "That actually sounds like a good idea. Thank you," he responded. He finally released the other hand so he could slip both of his into his pockets. "You've been living here a while, I assume?" Turtle smiled. Lovely. He agreed. That made everything so much better. He perked up a little bit more, his body straightening as he looked over the man in front of him once more. Oh, yes. He wondered if the newcomer would be offended or put off if he clung to him and hung all over the other like no tomorrow. It would be far too easy to do. He wanted to play with him! In more than one way. Patience was definitely not a virtue, but he would try to contain himself from pouncing the gorgeous being in front of him. "Great! Do you not like to eat anything?" he asked, not sure about the other's preference. He wanted to know before he decided where to drag him off to. He twirled the keys in his hand for a few moments. Furthermore, he turned on his heel and skipped over to the door. Closing his, he locked it and then jogged back over to the man. His arm wrapped around the other's elbow, and he tugged him against his side lightly. He straightened his form and just beamed all the more excitedly as he looked up at him. He really was going to have fun with his new neighbor. As for the question of time, he gave a nonchalant little shrug of his shoulders while walking. "A few months. Three I think?" he turned to look at him, making his way down the hall and through the house to head on out into the crisp, clean, open air. So much fun! He smiled a little bit more, really happy right now. "Pears. I can't stand pears," the Doctor answered immediately. Oh, it was such a foul fruit. He remembered how Martha hadn't been able to stop him from eating one back when he was configured into a human, and he couldn't get the taste out of his mouth for weeks, no matter how hard he brushed and gargled. It stuck with him and just rubbed him the wrong way. Kind of like trying to get a dog to eat a pickle. One whiff and they turned tail. He was a bit confused by the other's touchiness, though he just attributed it to a species-sort of thing. He couldn't tell what planet Turtle was from just yet, so all the possibilities were still there. At least it was a friendly culture trait. He hated it when he had to go against traditions because he wanted to keep all his organs. Besides, the guy looked thrilled to be hanging out, and the Doctor loved it when people were happy, human or not. Three. Okay, so that was enough time to either become accustomed to human life or find a way to destroy it. Either way, the Doctor would have to stick around for a while to find out. He was going to grab his keys and make sure he had everything in order, but Turtle was already heading out, and the Doctor wasn't going to cause a fuss. "That's cool. Where'd you live beforehand? I travel a lot, myself." He did not like pears? Well then, that was interesting, wasn't it? Personally, Turtle did not mind them. Maybe not his most favorite fruit, but he still liked it if he had nothing else to eat. He would not mind them. BUT! He kept that in mind. And considering there was nowhere that would force him to eat a pear, he would just take him to a simple little café with good sandwiches and some nice drinks. He was sure he could make the other love the little café he had grown to enjoy. Besides, lovely views there. And not just of the water. Turtle turned his attention once more to the man while he made his way through the streets. Where? "Um... Pretty far away. I doubt you've heard of it. Just one of those strange little places no one ever thinks about." He batted off the question with a little bat of his hand in the air. Now! To change the topic. "So, why aren't you married?" he asked, holding up the man's hand that his arm was latch on to and showing the lack of ring on his finger. And yes, deep down he was praying for the answer to be 'because I like men'. If not, then he was fair game. Even if he had a girlfriend, that was so very not important to him. If he could persuade him, he would not stop himself from having his way with him. Dating someone was so boring, and he did not care if the other was taken. That would not make a difference at all. Hell, it would make things more challenging! If he was free, Pooh, then that would make the rest of this man's stay here just so much more interesting. Over the years, he had come across many planets and many foods, and he had learned how to cope with eating food he didn't like-food that probably would turn most people's stomachs. However, for some reason, pears just stuck with him. All the other foods he could wash away with a drink that he liked, and the taste would be gone within a few minutes. Pears, on the other hand, were persistent little bastards. And if any of his companions needed their pear fix, he'd ask them to eat them in one of the rooms he usually never went in because the smell of pear lingered, too. The Doctor tried not to chuckle at the response-of course, if he was human, he wouldn't know where Turtle came from, but that was far from the case. Instead, he gave a small grin and answered, "you'd be surprised. I've traveled a lot. But that's nice-growing up away from a big city. Keeps you humble." The bluntness of the next question caught him off guard, and he stuttered for a few moments before finally being able to form complete sentences like a big boy. "I come and go a lot, Turtle, it wouldn't be fair to my spouse to drag 'em along, so I can do as I please," he answered. Of course, the TARDIS was rather roomy and could support twenty families and more if he so wished it, but he didn't want to settle down again. As much as he would have loved to have a family, he knew it couldn't happen when he was the last of his kind. Goodie! No one then. That made everything better. His eyes kept to the other, eyes staying with his features while he debated. He seemed like he needed something. When was the last time that the other had any action whatsoever? By the way he seemed to be acting, it had to have been years. Probably quite a bit, huh? He just wanted to attack him right here and now. Sure, he could not do that, but he wanted to. Okay, no. He would. He did not care who saw, but was pretty sure that the other may not want to play again if he just took what he wanted, made sure he was pleased, and then just refused to let him go. That seemed a tad stalkers. "Whoever said I didn't live in a city?" He did. It was just underwater. And not on this planet. Not that the cutie needed to know that. At all. Not now. Smiling warmly as he made his way to the little café, he let his hand slide to the other's hand. Oh, yea. His own little version of claiming the man. Like Hell, he would let some Trappist waitress try and get with HIS man. Well, not his yet, but definitely was going to get there. He would woo him somehow or another. He refused to let him go. Leading the way to the table, he sat down and straightened up just a bit more, smiling cheerfully as he looked up at the other man, just so very happy at the moment. "It's really delicious here! Simple, but still yummy." Oh, now Turtle was practically screaming that he was from an alien city. Of course, had the Doctor been human, he wouldn't have thought twice about it at all. Okay, so Turtle was from a city from another planet. Gee, that narrowed it down. He couldn't even tell for sure if this was Turtle's real form until he snicked him, but he wasn't going to whip out his screwdriver and scan the guy. Now, thatwas stalkers. The Doctor opened his mouth and closed it a few times when Turtle held his hand, not quite sure how to respond to this. He hadn't had any human or alien break his personal bubble like that so quickly-okay, it definitely had to be a cultural thing for Turtle and because he didn't want to offend the guy, he said nothing. Besides, certain cultures in Earth had people hold hands as a sign of friendship. And the guy looked so happy, how could he ruin that? The Doctor managed a smile. "I'm sure it is- and I'm starving." And that was the truth. It had been a bit since he last ate. "What was your home city called?" Turtle happily sat down, turning to the waiter and ordering his food happily. He then turned to look at the man in front of him. He was not letting that go, huh? Sure, he was so, so very interesting. He knew he was, but that did not mean he wanted to play twenty questions. He did with some girl one time a few weeks ago and wound up screaming at the end and leaving. The woman was nuts. They were not things that he ever wanted to guess just what they were. Creepy. And for him to say that, that meant that it was definitely bad. Looking up at the man, he grinned a little bit more. "If I tell you, will you stop playing with me ... Doctor?" he asked, smirking as he soon held up the lovely little sonic screwdriver this man was known for. He looked over the thing in his hand and pouted a little bit more. "You know. I knew there was something different about you, John, but I had no idea it was to this extent." He smiled a little more, twirling the screwdriver a bit more before he clenched it into his palm. Okay. So he had a horrible habit of taking things. When he was clinging to him, he felt it in his pocket, and wanted to see what was poking him. It did not feel like a pen, and it wasn't! It took all ten seconds to put the pieces together. This was definitely a lovely surprise. Keeping the object close to his form so that the other could not get it back all that easily. His eyes went back to the man. "I'm from Update. Ever been there? Well, I doubt underwater. Unless you've been there recently. We've actually invented things for humans and the like to breathe under there for a while. I think the most was a day." He shrugged a bit more and then lifted his eyes to the gorgeous being in front of him, smirking more. "Last I knew, you seemed to look more like Dracula. Definitely not ... like this." Ah. He was so, so, SO very pleasantly surprised. Honestly, he was trying to not just pounce the man across from him. If the Doctor had been being too persistent, he didn't notice. After all, once he was set on trying to figure something out, he found it a bit difficult to let go. When the waitress came over, he ordered himself a grilled cheese sandwich and a soda. He loved sandwiches. He crossed one leg over another and twiddled his thumbs together idly, just for the sake of having something to do with his hands. Furthermore, he was actually enjoying himself more than he thought he would-after all, he was pretty bad with the whole 'sit down and take things at a human pace' sort of deal. And then things took a turn to the unexpected. Up until now, the Doctor had a blissfully peaceful expression on his face, but it instantly hardened into a wary look when Turtle addressed him as 'Doctor', and when he saw his beloved screwdriver in the other's hands, he quickly patted himself down to make sure that-yes, he really had been pickpocketed. Dammit. His eyes followed his screwdriver like a puppy awaiting its treat, but he knew better than to reach out over the table and cause a scene. He was sure he was able to get his tool back peacefully. Besides, the Update weren't particularly famous for causing havoc on the Earth-there was no point when they could inhabit the oceans with little disturbance." I've heard of it- might have passed by it a time or two but never actually stepped foot," he answered, shifting a little in his seat now that he was down one screwdriver. "Which regeneration was that? First? No, that was too long ago. Fifth, maybe? I quite like my current one," he rambled, but finally got down to the point. "Can I just have my screwdriver back, please? I'd appreciate it a lot." Awe. The cute little doctor was all fidgety! Turtle was not mean. He had no plans on keeping it for more than a few more minutes. He just wanted to play with it a little. Yes, he wanted to set it on one of the numbers and just send it flying to see what it would do, but he did not really want to get hurt or make a ruckus. He wanted to be incognito. No attention drawn to them. Doctor was cute. He was not going to let him get away with being seen by others. Bad enough the waitress was checking him out. Honestly, that woman was lucky Turtle did not piss on him to claim him as his own. That would just be so wrong. Looking over at him once more, he smiled. He was too cute! Far too cute. "Really? You definitely should. It's a lot of fun." He shrugged his shoulders a little bit. Sure, he did not really want to go back there any time soon. There were numerous reasons he was out on his own and traveling the stars, but the doctor did not need to know that. That would just spoil the whole fun of getting to know him! He wanted to truly know him a little bit more. On quite a more personal level. Pushing those thoughts aside, the younger, shorter male, lifted his mossy-green eyes to the man's. He then looked at the screwdriver then once more to the other. He grinned with a devious glint in his eyes. "You may." he began, almost handing him the object, but quickly pulled it back and to his chest. "For a price." he smirked and leaned toward the other, gripping the sonic against his abdomen now. "I want a kiss in exchange. Not a pansy little peck, either. Not quite make-out, I don't need tongue ... And if it's good enough, I'll return your toy." Oh, yes. He was evil in his own little way. At first, the Doctor had been worried that Turtle was going to use the screwdriver to pull nasty pranks on humans and cause a fuss, but now he was slowly starting to realize that the guy was just doing it to fool around-just a bit of harmless fun. And the Doctor really wouldn't have minded harmless fun had it not been one of the most important things to him that was taken. The only thing worse he could have done was taken the TARDIS. He drummed the tabletop with his fingers and held his chin in the palm of his other hand, obviously a bit distressed by this." I'll consider it, next time I want to go deep sea diving. Have to reprogram my ship to make sure she's able to go down that deep," he responded. Now that he thought about it, he wasn't sure if he ever took the TARDIS underwater. However, she had braved black holes and suns, so going underwater couldn't be too bad of a jump. He extended his hand when Turtle began to hand the screwdriver over, but frowned when it was pulled back again. He shifted a little bit and a bit of color rose to his cheeks. Boy, this guy was pushing his luck. But a kiss wasn't too bad- it wasn't like this would be the first time he kissed a stranger. Besides, it was better than waiting around for him to get bored and hand it back. He huffed and pointed a finger at Turtle. "This means nothing," he warned, then carefully reached his hand to cup Turtle's chin and tilt his face up a bit so he could press their lips together. He kissed him gently-sort of like a good-night kiss after a first date- and then pulled back after a few moments. "Screwdriver." Turtle was enjoying this far too much. He honestly was. He would probably have some higher being punished him for it, but that could be thought about at a later date. Right now, the utter enjoyment he was having by playing with the Doctor just made him giddy. Yes. Stopping at earth was so very much the best thing he could have done. Okay, the best thing that could have happened to him. Not only did he get to meet the doctor, but he got to get a kiss from him too! That just made everything so very right in his world. For now. He would accept a mere kiss for now. Though, slightly wondered if he could have managed something more than just a kiss for the man's screwdriver back. Probably. Looking at the pointed finger, a raven brow lifted in question. "Aww." he pouted, but easily leaned up and into the other's lips. Nice, soft lips. One point for him! Sadly, the other points came rapidly. The kiss was nice. He would not have stopped traffic for it, but it was still very nice. He did not want it to end. It had to. He knew it did. That still did not mean that he wanted it to. Hell, he could have kept going for quite a while more. To the younger one's perks, he had actually kissed very well. Okay, better than that. He was phenomenal at kissing. He knew he was too, and that only made him want to kiss more. Furthermore, he had skills, and while most of them were not used, he did make sure that the man could potentially be itching for more. Grinning as he pulled back, he giggled while placing the thing into the other's hand. He did not mind giving him the other's prize. "It may not mean anything between us ... But the surrounding others probably think differently." he glanced to an old couple that was currently staring at them, but just shrugged it off. He had better things to do: Like play with his doctor! Yes. His. HIS! Pushing that aside for now, his eyes turned back to him, and he beamed while leaning toward him once more. "It makes me wonder what else I can get you to do, though." he admitted, eyes traveling along the other's form. "I'm pretty positive you can kiss better than that. You're no fun when stressing over tools." He stuck his tongue out before shrugging. "Still good considering." Now, Turtle seemed like a nice, entertaining fellow, but the Doctor could already tell that the guy was going to be a bit of a handful. Not like it was necessarily a bad thing, but he just knew he'd have to keep a closer eye on some things. Namely, his screwdriver. At least now it was back with its proper owner. The Doctor put it back in his coat pocket, except rather than having it at the top like usual, he shoveled it deep down, somewhere between the fold-up tent and the flashlight. Turtle may have been pleased that he kissed the Doctor, but he was far from the first and far from the last. The Doctor had a bit of a habit of kissing people-mostly his companions but every now and again, he'd meet a nice girl or bloke that were looking for a kiss and got one. The Doctor frowned a bit when he glanced over at the couple that was now staring at them. Great. Well, not like it mattered too much. It wasn't like he was planning on having a life here or continuing to pose as Turtle's boyfriend. Hell, once they left this café, he'd probably never see the two again anyway, so what did it matter?" You're not getting anymore out of me," he said stubbornly, pointing a finger at Turtle. "It's just that one kiss and that's it. I'm too old for you, anyway- and I don't age." He continued to go through his usual laundry list of why any sort of relationship wouldn't work out until their food arrived not much longer after. Turtle arched a brow at the man's babbling. Why was he starting to tell him about the reasons there could be no relationship between them? Age? Honestly, that was part of his problem? Sigh. The man did not know Nations very well, now, did he? While they were not as special as the Time Lords with their whole changing faces and the complete and utter never changing, they were not humans. They did not grow old. They tended to stay the same for hundreds of years, then when their time on this universe was over, they would just slowly float away into the water. "You know, Doctor, your age is not an issue. Sure, I'm a lot younger than you. I realize this. But! In retrospect of how old an average Update lives ... Well, I think it would not be an issue in the long run of things. It's just be like an Earth person being with someone ten years older." he shrugged and then took up his chicken, pesto, peppers, and cheese grilled sandwich. Ah. It's delicious stuff! He took a bite of it and then looked back to the man in front of him. "And what's to say it'll last? You don't know until you try. You could manage to loooooove me." Yep, it amused him so very much at the thought of being with the man. How could it not? It would just be so very lovely. Definitely something interesting. With a shrug of his shoulders, and after eating a bit more of his sandwich, he turned his attention to the male once more. "AND! Who says I would want a relationship? Friends, sure. But friends can have benefits." He smirked at the last bit, taking a bite of some more of the food. He was now just testing the other. Furthermore, he doubted the man had a friend with benefit with anyone before, so it would be interesting to know how he felt about it. Of course, if he did not like the idea, then he would just have to woo him into wanting a relationship. That was that. Okay, so he did know that Turtle wasn't a human and his usual 'this won't work out' speech wouldn't have the same effect, but he had been hoping it was enough to deter him from pursuing him any further. He was sure that Turtle was a nice guy and would make someone happy, but as much as the Doctor was a romantic at heart, he knew he couldn't have any sort of relationship. Even being friends with someone endangered them, as he found out time and time again." It's not just age," he responded. He took a moment to have a bite of his sandwich and calm his nerves a bit. Usually any advances made on him were subtle-maybe a sudden kiss, but no more, and they would learn to move on rather quickly. Turtle was persistent. "I'm dangerous. Every day I risk my life and death isn't the worst thing that happened to my friends." He was usually a bit stubborn to letting people back in to his life after losing a companion. He washed down his bite with a sip of soda and shook his head at the other. "I don't think any less of people who have friends 'with benefits', but it's not my style." Call him old-fashioned, but he believed most levels of intimacy should be shared with only one person, and only if he intended to be with that one person for a very, very long time. Did the Doctor honestly think that would deter him? He got into enough trouble on his own. Having to get into trouble with someone he could potentially fall for was definitely something he would not mind. Adventure was fun! He was not as fragile as a normal human was. This man only really ever had humans as his companions. Nations were strong. Sure, their weak point was the gills. They were sensitive to the touch - and hurt like no tomorrow if injured at just the right angle - and he would need to have water and swim every so often, but any danger that could happen would not be as easy to harm as it would him. He sighed softly and shook his head a little bit. "Glad that it's not your style." Since, admittedly, it was not his. Yes. He had a fling here and there, but that did not mean he did not care for the other person. There were circumstances that surrounded this sort of occasions. Typically, the little alien at least tried to make anything more than just friendly benefits. He loved to have sex, but he tried to not just do it with a pretty face. He tried to have morals. Thing being, it just did not work out all the time. If he had enough attraction to someone for him to want to sleep with them, then there was something about that person that got him intrigued enough to do that. Whether a connection with the other, or wanting to have a relationship. Whatever it was, there was always something. Looking up at the other, he leaned toward the other and smiled just a little bit more. "Doctor, you will not get rid of me that easily." He stated, a pleasant smile tracing along his soft pink lips. "Danger? That's the best you have to scare me off with? I have no family or friends for them to be endangered. So, it would just be me, and I do a well enough job on my own of getting into trouble. It's just so much more fun with a friend. Don't you agree? You cannot tell me that you are not lonely right now. Without your little companions to stick with you. Without them to help you problem-solve and get out of trouble. Yes, yes, they have gotten into trouble because of you, but that was their choice, and I am positive you can ask every single person you have ever had, and they would not regret it." he stuck his tongue out at him before going back to his sandwich with a shrug. "I'm staying by your side." The Doctor was pretty good at hiding his emotions when he wanted to. Sure, he'd let out his fits of anger when an offender crossed the line or let a tear shed when no one was looking, but Turtle was pouring salt into an open wound with the 'lonely' comment. After all, it had been less than a day since he had parted ways with Donna. What a wonderful, wonderful woman she was and even though there was nothing romantic between them, it tore him to pieces knowing all the great, courageous, and spectacular things she did.... and she wasn't allowed to remember, or else it'd kill her. And she did it all to save him. At least Martha had been allowed to live safe and sound- a normal life without any sort of disturbance. However, he had endangered her entire family when he picked her up and the suffering they endured during the year that never was... well, it was unspeakable. And the worst part was, they were one of the few who remembered it, so they couldn't even share their pain with their friends and neighbors. All they had were the memories and their small family to speak of it with. Rose had it the worst, though. Left alone in an alternate universe. Sure, she had her mom, dad, ex, and baby brother... but it still wasn't her home. Oh, how he cried whenever he was alone. He managed to rectify it- at least she had him... his other 'him', but the Doctor missed her dearly." Lonely or not, I'm not willing to put another person at risk because of me," he said. "At most, I'll take you back to your home planet if you'd like-any time you want, I'll take you there. But I can't keep you with me, whether you have family or not." It killed him to say this because he really did want someone at his side, but-he couldn't stand watching more of his friends come and go by his hand. "Because in the end, I break all my friends' hearts. And they break mine." Turtle listened to the man, arching a brow in question of what he was babbling about. He got it. The man did not want a broken heart. To endanger people. Blahdy blah blah bleach. He did not care. What this man did not realize was that Turtle was stubborn. He was not going to just say 'oh okay. You're right' and let himself be dropped off at his planet. To be honest, he was lonely. He was very, very lonely. The one friend he had left abandoned him. Left him. Told him to never contact him ever again. And then what happens? He dies. That stupid man had to go off and die. The one and only friend he honestly truly ever had ... just dies. He could not stand it. That was what started his whole trip, and he was not going to go back. "I'm--" The boy suddenly stopped, eyes going wide as he spotted quite the muscle-man coming around the corner. His breath caught in his throat and he remained frozen for a few moments. "Oh look! Lunch is over!" He hopped up from the table, shoving a few bills under his plate before he took a hold of the Doctor's hand once more. "I know you don't want to be stuck with me, but ... you're going to since Duo over there saw you" he gave a little wave of his fingers to the angry man that was soon stomping to them. "Yea. We're leaving now." With that, he yanked the doctor to his feet and was soon leaping over the fence the separated the little tables from the street. He made sure he had a strong grip on the other, not really wanting to let the other alien get a hold of him. Once Turtle opened his mouth again, the Doctor was prepared to go to the next step and use his angry voice. He didn't like using his angry voice, but he needed time alone to think things over if Turtle was really set on coming. The Doctor didn't want to make a rash decision and end up regretting it later. He didn't want to hurt Turtle's feelings by making him stay here or at his home planet, but what if the guy really didn't understand just exactly what he was getting himself in to. However, they didn't exactly have much time on their hands now that big bad was coming after them. At first, he was a bit confused when Turtle quickly stood up and tugged at him to go, but then he saw the oncoming danger and, to be honest, was damn glad that there was something to do now. Without needing to be told twice, he quickly caught up with the other. Okay, so he didn't know the area too well, but he knew where the TARDIS was and that was more or less a safe house. The other alien could knock and attack it all he wanted, but it was an impenetrable fortress and would buy them enough time to come up with a way to get rid of it. Abruptly, he tugged Turtle and began to run off in the direction that the TARDIS was parked. "What'd you do to piss it off?" Turtle was quickly running beside the other. His shorter legs doing a pretty good job of keeping up with the man. He followed him through every side street and made sure to not lose him. Hey! At least there was something to do now, right? He knew that this could end horribly, but it got them off the topic from before. That was always fun! He was going to stop the argument, just not give up though. He could not do that. Furthermore, he would just stop talking about it. Let the other sizzle a bit about all the things that went on beforehand. Turtle was different, though. Obviously. Turning to the man at the question, he shrugged his shoulders a bit. "Nothing. Just witnessed him murdering my best friend, why?" He looked up at the taller man while rushing down the other street once more. "He's the reason I'm here." For once, an alien wasn't chasing him down... only chasing the guy next to him. Well, granted, he'd be guilty by association and get attacked anyway but at least it wasn't his fault this time. That was a plus. As he ran, he fumbled in his pocket to find the key to the TARDIS and, once he fished it out, held it tightly in his hand until they came to the familiar, blue box. Oh, how he loved that ship. He unlocked the doors, opened them, and then tugged Turtle inside with him before shutting and bolting the doors. For a few moments, the Doctor put his hands on his head and breathed deeply to make his hearts return to their normal pace, and then he looked back at the other alien. He put his hands on Turtle's shoulders and looked him in the eye. "Why did he kill your best friend?" There were more questions to come-he'd be sympathetic for the kid later. "What did you do to him to retaliate, how did you end up landing here, and has he found you between that day and today?" Why was this man questioning him so much? He knew that they were better than pestering about sex and whatnot, but it did not make him any happier to answer the questions about his friend. He knew that his friend was a little extensive in the punishment, but he was a hurting father. His daughter was the only one he had. The only reminiscent of his one and only true love. It was sad, but Drake was not one to just let things slide without a care. He justified his actions, and while he did not support the action of death, he knew his friend and that the other deserved far worse than that. Looking up at the doctor once more, he blushed faintly and his hands rested on the bottom of his shirt, fidgeting with the fabric for a little bit more. He remained silent for a while, not sure if he honestly wanted to tell the man. His eyes lifted to him with a bit of interest, staring at him before he sighed heavily. "The man's son ... raped his daughter. It was very bad. And too many horrible things happened to her after that, but ... Drake does not take well to his loved ones being abused in any manner, especially his daughter. She's his only one and from his only love, and so he could not let the man who hurt her daughter get away with it." He shook his head a little bit and looked up at him once more." I know it is not the best solution, but he was in pain. Could you let your daughter's rapist live?" Sometimes, the Doctor would be a little more wary of who he let in to his TARDIS but for now, it didn't matter. What mattered right now was that he and Turtle were safe until they were able to come up with a plan of attack. However, what he wanted to know was whether Turtle was innocent of any wrongdoing... which, from what he was gathered, probably was the truth. After all, Turtle was a lot less menacing than what was currently chasing him, even though looks can be deceiving." Why did he hurt your friend's laugh- oh, it's a moot point, never mind that... actually, yes, why did his son hurt your friend's daughter?" Right now, the Doctor was going to have to punish their pursuer accordingly- he was guilty of murdering the friend, yes, but if he could justify it for his son being wrongly accused or having a reason to attack, then maybe the Doctor would be more merciful. Even though an eye for an eye wasn't right, that didn't mean that the Doctor had to be ruthless in punishment. Everyone deserved a second chance. Why was this man questioning him so much? He knew that they were better than pestering about sex and whatnot, but it did not make him any happier to answer the questions about his friend. He knew that his friend was a little extensive in the punishment, but he was a hurting father. His daughter was the only one he had. The only reminiscent of his one and only true love. It was sad, but Drake was not one to just let things slide without a care. He justified his actions, and while he did not support the action of death, he knew his friend and that the other deserved far worse than that. Looking up at the doctor once more, he blushed faintly and his hands rested on the bottom of his shirt, fidgeting with the fabric for a little bit more. He remained silent for a while, not sure if he honestly wanted to tell the man. His eyes lifted to him with a bit of interest, staring at him before he sighed heavily. "The man's son ... raped his daughter. It was very bad. And too many horrible things happened to her after that, but ... Drake does not take well to his loved ones being abused in any manner, especially his daughter. She's his only one and from his only love, and so he could not let the man who hurt her daughter get away with it." He shook his head a little bit and looked up at him once more." I know it is not the best solution, but he was in pain. Could you let your daughter's rapist live?" It was rather ironic that the Doctor got a bit bothered when people badgered him with questions-especially when he was thinking... but as soon as he needed things answered, it was perfectly okay for him to go rambling on and on until the other person's ear was half chewed off by the time he was through with them. That, and he was impatient. Very impatient. Sure, if he knew that something took a long time, he'd be able to sit around and wait, but he definitely would not like it. At least Turtle was giving him answers now. His face dropped a little when he heard the answer, though. In his opinion, rape was just as bad as death-even worse, in a way. And as a father and a grandfather, he knew he would have been blinded with anger, too. He wouldn't have killed a man for it, but he would make sure that the offender would regret it. Regret it a lot. However, he didn't show how the little fire in his stomach was turning him. Instead, he flashed a grin. "Well that makes this very, very easy," he stated as he stepped back. He gave Turtle a pat on the shoulder- a silent thank you for his cooperation. He glanced around the TARDIS, trying to think of a suitable transportation device that could carry two or three people. Maybe he could reprogram the TARDIS and use a bit of her energy to create a portray-like device. "The daughter-what was her name?"

Don't Blink [Blue + Chokuro]|rating:3.0

evil ascendant in character thread group 1.

This is the in character thread for DeKay, Togo, MoriHikari, Income, and Calvin. You guys all know the story so far. Should I assume you're all friends or have your characters not met yet? Your choice. Uhm, I wrote nothing in my backstory, so at least I don't know these people, I think.EDIT: *I wrote nothing about the others in my backstory, I mean. KelvanSpoiler Hide I didn't write anything about it either, but I don't mind if we do know each others already. It is your call really. BTw, how do you want us to proceed when we post (do we write everything IC, or we use both IOC and IC)? IOC: Hm I wrote nothing about it in my backstory... I didn't even get my backstory up yet... I'm good with it either way. When you do post it's preferable that you write in character. However, as long as you say "IOC" on something it should be fine. Okay, so, since you don't know each other where do you guys all want to start in the city? Keep in mind this is a very well known and large city so you'll be able to find just about anything. Except brothels. That's cool to me (except brothel part). KalvanSpoiler Hide Well, if I have the choice, Kelvin would probably be in an Inn, one close by a city gate. He would have been there for some time, drowning his sorrow, but decided he needed to do something else and not waste his life (also, his pockets are getting empty). I'll do an IC post when you tell us where we start. But eh really can be anywhere also. I guess you SHD just put us somewhere, and we will react ;) BTW, I use spoiler for IOC*and dice rolling, so only IC stuff appear when you read it. Originally Posted by Yuri except brothels. I was reading your post, and you said we can start anywhere, and my thoughts went "brothels! Brothels!!" and then I see except brothels, and I was sad. But I also was happy, because I found the situation amusing. Besides, Sin probably isn't much of a brothel-goer (is that a thing?). ANYWAY, I think if Sin hadn't met the party yet, he would either be searching a local bounty hunter place for something to do/kill, or in his room in a tavern or similar location. (He doesn't really know how to have fun)Also, as soon as we "officially" start, I'll start posting in character, and I'll place IOC when I'm, you know, not. Edit: It probably doesn't matter, but do you prefer me to post 3rd or 1st person? E.g., "Sin looks around" as opposed to "I look around?" Okay then. You don't mind if Sin starts out in the classic tavern? It's usually pretty easy to find out about money making opportunities there. Plus, you can get drunk. Seems right up a guy named sin's alley. You can do either third or first person. I don't care. One thing I should bring up. I can't see sin's character sheet. Originally Posted by Yuri Okay then. You don't mind if Sin starts out in the classic tavern? It's usually pretty easy to find out about money making opportunities there. Plus, you can get drunk. Seems right up a guy named sin's alley. You can do either third or first person. I don't care. One thing I should bring up. I can't see sin's character sheet. 1. Tavern's fine, but Sin ain't a drinker.2. Not being able to see my sheet is NOT fine. What do you suggest I do about it? If I have to, I could save it as a PDF and email it to you, but I don't want to do that. Edit: Oh, and MoriHikari? I was looking at your character sheet, because I am a curious person, and I noted you possess only two at-will powers, plus wild shape. You get three plus wild shape as a druid. There should be a little eye symbol next to the name of the sheet in your index of sheets. Make it so that is highlighted, and I should be able to see it. Well, if Sin would be looking for bounties, like I said, Tavern is probably the easiest place to find things that are in your league. The bounties offered by the city are a little bit out of your character's league right now. Originally Posted by Yuri there should be a little eye symbol next to the name of the sheet in your index of sheets. Make it so that is highlighted and I should be able to see it. Well, if Sin would be looking for bounties, like I said, Tavern is probably the easiest place to find things that are in your league. The bounties offered by the city are a little bit out of your character's league right now. Ah, got it. You should be able to see it now. Very well, Sin is in the tavern looking for bounties or, should that fail, other ways to make money. Last relevant question. Is your character just now walking in or has he been there a while? He's been in there for a while. And now I have an irrelevant question for YOU! When we get into a fight, how is that gonna work? Like, do I have to visualize the grid and terrain, or will you make a nice little map for me to copy down, etc.? I shall be making maps and using photobucket or some other hosting site so that you can see it. Once the map is through though, I'll probably delete it to save space on my account.okay. THIS should be the last question. Have you been asking around for a long time or are you just kind of sitting there listening? I've been sitting there, listening for a good opportunity. The bartender takes a look at you after all this time and says "Hey you! what are you doing here if you ain't buying a drink?" Originally Posted by Yuri The bartender takes a look at you after all this time and says "Hey you! what are you doing here if you ain't buying a drink?" I fix the bartender with a steely glare, aiming to intimidate him into shutting up. .... So, I'll roll an intimidate check.(1d20+11)[16]"Silence, peasant,"I spit, letting my full displeasure at his intrusion show,"the less you are concerned in my matters, the better for you, it will be." "I-I-I'm sorry sir! I meant no offense, I was just wondering what you were doing. I'll get back to what I was doing." he says as he grabs a mug and starts cleaning it hastily. Make a perception check. IOC: Intimidating-less FTW! Also, Perception is not FTW! I suck at that! Also, usually the DM makes perception checks. This is so you don't let the players know that something is up, and prevents them from interpreting the info you give them based off what they know. Of course, in my case I know why I'm making the check, but for future reference I prefer you make my perception and insight rolls for me.(1d20+1)[13]"Of course you didn't mean offense. Now, get back to work." I peer into the vague shadows (IOC: Low-light vision also FTW) of the tavern and listen. Good to know. And hey, you actually rolled fairly well on perception. You work your way past the hustle and bustle of the crowds and hear two people talking "Damn thieves stole more of my livestock! I can't do anything about it and the city doesn't care. *Harrumph* Wish somebody could do something about those damn thieves!" "Well, you could always go to the bounty office." "Bah. I can't pay enough for those big shots" "guess you're out of luck then" you also hear something about a house on the outside of town but can't make it out. KelvanThe tall man wearing simple and used animal fur look at the man who retorted at the barman. He tells him,"Easy friend, no need to frighten the poor man. His manners are lacking, but his intentions aren't hostile." Kelvan then turn to the barkeep and tell him,"Two mug of your fine mead, one for me and one for...", ending with some hesitation pointing at the man beside him. Turning his attention back to him Kelvin add,"I am Kelvin Bear hugger, you are?" You can see deep sorrow in Kelvin eyes. By the look of his gear he is a traveler, probably an adventurer. Hanging on the back of his chair is a backpack with a rolled up blanket, a rope, a water skin, small shield and a drum tied up upon it. To his waist is buckled up a long sword. Kelvan attention is drawn by the man looking for help with his livestock, before he gets the other man answer. The bartender goes into the back and gets two mugs of fine mead and passes them to you. KelvanKelvan take note of the man face so he can approach him later to maybe offer him his own services, then turn back to the other man beside him, pushing one of the mug his way." Sorry, I got disturbed by possible work, didn't mean to offed you." Sin rolls his eyes at this Kelvin Bear hugger's back; he forgot to pay for the ale. Sin pays for both wordlessly and follows the gaze of this Hugger of Bears into the crowd. Seeing he's observing the men discussing livestock, he puts a hand on Kelvin's shoulder to get his attention and mutters,"You may know me as Sin." He does not offer a handshake, and turns to the two men discussing livestock, but speaks quietly to Kevlar." We share interests in employment." Sin gets up from his stool and approaches the men, tugging at Kelvin's sleeve." You there. Peasants."he begins,"We'll retrieve your livestock. I expect a reward." The guy just looks at you and ask show much you're expecting, and why do you care? KelvanScratching his two days beard, Kelvin reply to the farmer,"You need livestock recovered, we need some money, so this is a win-win situation. You can't afford to use the bounty hunter guild, we offer our help for a lesser price. Make us a decent offer, and we might just be willing to help you." Leaning toward the farmer, Kelvin conclude giving a small pat on his long sword and a wide smile,"And beside, I need the exercise." Spoiler Hide Kelvin use some roguish charm to get a fair and decent price for our services:) Minor to active Word of friendship during his talk (+5 to diplomacy) Diplomacy roll : (1D20+17)[15](32) Hmm. How about 250 gold each? KelvanPondering the offer Kelvin ask absently,"What is it exactly that you got stolen? I assume we can keep anything else we can find from these thieves. Give us some information about the whole thing so we can take a clear decision about it." Spoiler Hide Do I think he is making us a fair offer (for what he can pay) or is retrying to screw us? Insight : (1D20+5)[2](7) Lt;- lol Randomly, they steal at least ten* animals of my livestock on average per week. It doesn't seem to matter what kind they are they'll steal them. Pigs, cows, Yaks, anything. I want you to take care of these thieves. You can keep anything you find of theirs except my livestock.*or other more plausible number. Sin gives the matter a moment's thought." The thieves. Do you know where they camp? Where do you want us to return to the livestock?" Sin is trying to pump them with questions to see if they make a mistake, which would reveal they're trying to con us somehow.IOC: I would pull an insight check, but A) my dice roller isn't working, and B)I already asked the DM to do them for me. Kelvin"Let me guess, you didn't see them? Also, are you the only one getting stolen?" Upon receiving the answers, he turns to Sin and ask him,"What do you say, want to beat up some thieves and round up cows? Might not be the most glorious job out there, but it should be easy enough money and a good way to learn to know each other and bond." Kelvan look quickly at the farmer and say for his pride,"No offense meant buddy." He then resumes his discussion with Sin,"Also, we might wanna search for a couple more brave soul to assist us, for safety if nothing else." Kelvan, realizing something, turn to the farmer and ask,"When you said 250 gold each, did you mean each of us or for each beast we bring back? And if it is for each of us, does this extend to some other we might want to recruit for the task? In case you're wondering how many others I am thinking of, in my tribe a hunting pack was five people... that is what I would aim for.". As Kelvin start to speak of his tribe, his tone change, and become filled with sadness. Alisha Alisha sits quietly listening to the others. She raises her hand to the barkeeper and point to the glasses with mead. In her hand she plays with her flute, and she nods acquiescing. GhehehJaknik laughs evil when the barman talks humbly to Kelvin. Are you OK Kelvin? Kelvan hears in his Haddon't worry my friend, I think helping this farmer will be a good distraction for all of us. NAD doing good always cheers you up, trust Methuen she continues listening to the men who probably has a job for her and her friends(IOC: silver is my telepathic speech) Kelvin shiver goes down Kelvin spine as he is spoken into his head. He still isn't used to this kind of intrusion, having met Alisha only a couple night ago. He answers her out loud without thinking,"Sorry Alisha, didn't see you arrive. I guess this means you'd be interested to help as well." Turning to Sin and the farmer, he introduces her,"This is Alisha, a lady bard with whom I have been sharing the entertainment duty around this place. Alisha, this is Sin and ..." Kelvan, realizing he didn't know the farmer name, give him a smile and will let him introduce himself. Spoiler Hide Calvin : See IOC thread, I posted my idea there for our meeting Alisha She nods kindly to Sin and the farmer. (Sin) Hello. As Kelvin said I am Alisha Taxation. I and Kelvin already met, and it is nice to meet you too. I agree we should help this farmer She makes a gesture towards the farmer Oh, and sorry for being in your head she smiles friendly but sadly But I think it's better than letting the imp do the talking. She snaps her fingers to the imp who is just insulting some farmers on the other table in a weird language. There's a group of caves out on the edge of town. I suspect that's where they're hiding. They've stolen from a few other farmers in the area, but the city doesn't seem to care. IncompSpoiler Hide You notice that something is definitely up. This farmer isn't telling you the whole story. Also, do you want me to roll your checks on the site or at home? IOC: is a little confused but will introduce my character. Karion is sitting down the bar a way sipping on a drink"livestock Thames? Sounds simple enough. If you don't mind I'd like to provide my services in this quest."he says addressing Kelvin. KelvanAhh, a mission out of town, will be great to take some fresh air outside!, Think Kelvin. Turning his attention to Marion, Kelvin take a good look at the man and say,"Well the more the merrier! And besides, I was planning to seek some more help anyway. I assume you know how to use these weapons you carry?" "That I do. That I do"Marion says with a grin, finishing off his current drink. IOC: Sorry for my absence guys; I have, like, school, and it's encouraged that I attend. Also, Calvin, it could be just me, but I find the silver text really hard to read. Could you change the color, please? Sin stood still for a few moments, paying no attention to what occurred around him. He'd been trying to force his thoughts across the telepathic link this Alisha had established. However, he could only clumsily show her the images of ambush and death he found suddenly clouding his mind. He gave up after a little while. He shook himself slightly, recovering from his daze. Turning to Alisha, Sin spoke at an undertone." Greetings. You may know me as Sin. Be warned; I am...unsure about this farmer. Excuse me." Sin politely (IOC: A rarity!) exits the conversation, giving Marion a knowing nod by way of greeting. He whispers in Kelvin's ear,"My new friend, we must speak in private."IOC: Yuri: I don't care, as long as I can't see the roll. That's basically the point of me not making them. Kelvin nod to Sin and tell the others,"Will you excuse us for a minute." At that, Kelvin stand move toward the stairs which lead to the 2nd floor and his room. He deliberately wait for Sin t catch up. Sin follows Kevlar up the stairs and says to him, (DeKay and DM)Spoiler Hide "We must not trust these men. They are not telling us everything. As we speak to them, I find my mind clouded with specters of death's shadow. At the very least, we proceed with caution." Sin shakes his head. He returns to the group, and says to the farmers,"We will return your livestock." Sitting at the table where Marion sat, Argos woke up from an uncomfortable, yet strangely refreshing nap. "Huh? What's up?" He says. Spoiler Hide Sorry for being away for so long guys, BIG computer troubles! Sin eyes the sleepy man with evident disdain." Oh, another latecomer to our little condottiere's field trip? We're off to sell our dignity retrieving lost cattle for pocket change. Care to join?" KelvanUpstair (Sin and DM)Spoiler Hide Kelvin nod to Sin, a grin appearing on his face, "In this case, this might change a boring work into a fun and challenging one my friend. Who knows, might even become something worth making a song of. Go on I'll go get the rest of my stuff." Kelvin come downstairs a minute or two after Sin with a book, a longbow and a quiver of arrows. He then pick up his backpack and say." I guess you accepted the work Sin, who's the newcomer? I am Kelvin." He extends a hand to shake as he introduces himself." Well, that make five of us. Good thing too, I won't have to look for more I guess. Let's go then unless you guys have something more to do here." "I'm ready to head out anytime." Karion says motioning to his pack at the floor near his feet. Sin turns to Kelvin, and says,"I told the farmers we would return the livestock. This was a mistake. In any case, let us be off as soon as this one,"Sin indicates Argos,"can resuscitate himself from his drunken stupor. I tire of this peasant tavern and its knave ling barkeep." KelvanKelvan walk out of the Inn. He stretch his muscles to warm up for the road. Thinking about the area of the caves, Kelvin try to plan the road ahead. As he does so and wait for the others, his right hand resting on his Jimmy hanging on his right hip, reflexively start to play a travel tune. Spoiler Hide Yuri, how far are the caves (time it will take to get there)... If it takes more than 3 hours, Kelvin will want to make a ritual to travel faster (Traveler's Chant) Sin exits the inn, cringing slightly in the presence of the sun as he does so. He mutters to Kelvin,"I suspect these "thieves" are cultists; blood sacrifices for their thirsty gods. Let us be through with this task." With that, Sin sets off in the direction of the caves, expecting the rest of the party to keep up with him. KelvanKelvan nod at Sin,"Make sense I guess, we will see when we're there. If your right, I doubt the farmer will pay for dead cows... but it probably will be more fun." Marion follows the others, glad to be in the sun and amongst nature once again."to the caves then." IOC: With that, I suppose we have to wait for Yuri to show up, don't we? *Is impatient.* somebody called? Okay, so you make it to the caves the guy mentioned. There seem to be five different entrances but no tracks or guards. It looks like you're going to have to try and guess where the thieves are hiding. KelvanKelvan inspect the caves entrance for traces of any kind, before widening his search area. Spoiler Hide Kelvin will seek not only tracks, but also any kind of signs that could let him know where to go (traces on the wall, an area that might have been widened to allow passage, etc.) If this fail, he will look around the caves where the ground might be softer to find track and maybe guess which of the caves would be the most probable choice. Also, do one of the cave look to be a better choice for some reason (position, seem to lead deeper, etc.)(dungeonneering) Perception : (1d20+6)[12](18) Dungeoneering: (1d20+5)[19](24) IOC: Adrift guys, here's my plan. There are five entrances. Unless we want this to take forever and three minutes, we'll have to split up. A bard should lead each group (they can heal). I don't know what Togo actually is, but that leaves us with him, a druid, and me. I say the bards can pick their teams then. Furthermore, I need to be in a group with a melee PC, though, or I'm toast. Furthermore, I'll try to think up something else that's clever over lunch, but no promises. Sin observes the multiple entrances, and a note of frustration enters his quiet voice:"We don't have time for this. We need to split up." One of the caves looks rather large which would work better for transporting large amounts of livestock, but you don't find anything else. If there were tracks they've been covered up. The defining parts of the caves arcade #1 large and deep. Cave #2 small but bright. It looks like there might be a light source deeper in. Cave #3 small but deep. Too dark to see anything without some other form of light. Cave #4 small and not very deep. Doesn't look like a good place to put large amounts of livestock from here. Cave #5 medium-sized, looks deep and has a horrid smell. Like burning manure. IOC: Scratch what I said earlier. I vote we go for #5 as a group first. Something is wrong in there. After that, my order of priority would be #2, then #1, then #3, and #4 if we still care at that point. Sin wrinkles his nose at the abhorrent stench." Something is wrong inside that cave. We should inspect it." KelvanKelvan pause at the cave, taking a closer look and say pointing the cave with light then the one with the smell,"These two caves would be the ones to check first." As Sin chooses one, Kelvin nod,"Alright, anyone want to scout ahead?" Kelvan then tie a cloth piece to his face to lessen the smell and move inside slowly and as stealthy has he can be. Spoiler Hide Sheath : (1D20+6)[5](11) If anyone wanted to scout ahead, Kelvin will let them move in about 25 feet in front, keeping him in sight as much as possible. BTW, I have my sword and shield ready. (Sun blade light is turned off right now) Sin follows about ten feet behind Kelvin, motioning for the others to follow. He makes an attempt to remain stealthy, and covers his nose with his cape. Spoiler Hide Marion, if you took skittering sneak as a utility power, that would be amazingly helpful right now. Anyway, I follow behind Kelvin, using my low-light vision to observe the surrounding cave. Yuri, will you roll me a perception? Stealth Check: (1d20+4)[24] Lt;-haha! Critical Hit! Oh, wait. Damn. * post roll count doesn't match database IncompSpoiler Hide The walls in here seem Odd. You couldn't see it at first, but it looks like parts of them have been scraped off. Just small amounts, but it lacks the refinement of a tool. It looks like claw marks. You also smell something odd that you didn't notice before. The smell of rotting meat. Sin stops in his tracks and whispers to the party,"Observe the walls. They have been clawed. Smell the air. It stinks of death. There is a predator here." KelvanKelvan stop and pull back to Sin." Ok, do we still explore it? I'd say we might want to check the others first. A fight with a wild beast might draw attention and make us loose the advantage of surprise on the thieves, if thieves there is." Kelvan's Status :Spoiler Hide HP :...43/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand :Sun blade long sword (light off) Offhand : Small Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Majestic Word (2/2) Word of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects : IOC: Is the Silent Bob Squad still behind us? Were they ever? Silent Bob squad? Originally Posted by Yuri Silent Bob squad? Have you ever seen Clerks or Clerks 2? Originally Posted by Income Have you ever seen Clerks or Clerks 2? That would be a no. "I can scout ahead if you want, tell you guys what else is down there."if everyone agrees, Marion transforms into a small spider and will go scout ahead then return to where the group is. Spoiler Hide perception (1d20+10)[14] looking for anything strange Sin nods to Marion and whispers"Try not to die. You may prove useful in the future."@Kyuubi: I was poking fun at MoriHikari, Togo, and Calvin and how they don't post anywhere near as often as I do by referencing the Clerks movies, in which there is a character named Silent Bob, who, shockingly, never says anything yet remains a major character. How far ahead will you be scouting More?also, how many people here besides me read 8 bit theater? I've not heard of this 8 bit theater. KelvanKelvan nods to Marion,"Just yell if you get into trouble, we'll come down to you sword raised high singing a war song." Not sure how far back to scout...can I use a nature check to see if I can determine how far back it might go to aid my decision?if so here is a nature check. Nature check:(1d20+10)[15] It looks like it may go back another 2,000 feet. Ok Marion goes back about 500 feet keeping his eyes peeled for anything strange. (rolled perception a few posts ago.) Alisha keeps her distance. She shakes her head. Men always need to Beau so heroic. She walks bit and especially looks away from the caves to see if someone is watching them.perception - (1d20+6)[21]She takes out her bow just in case. "Another pair of eyes couldn't hurt," Argos says, looking around the cave. Spoiler Hide Perception check: (1d20+5)[13] IOC: Waitin' on you, Yuri. (It worked last time.) Also, sorry guys, but I'm going to be gone this whole weekend. I won't be able to post till late next Sunday, maybe. Feel free to NPC me. Originally Posted by Income IOC: Waitin' on you, Yuri. (It worked last time.) Just FYI, This doesn't actually work when I'm 300 miles away without an internet cord (my Computer doesn't get Wi-Fi. Don't know why, been trying to fix it.)okay, you see a fire, a small group of people and a big dragon like beast. However, the teeth look overlong for its mouth and several other parts of its body are out of proportion to its size. Anybody care to make a knowledge nature check? Nature check for Marion:(1d20+10)[16] your character recalls this. "Packs of ambush drakes, led by powerful pack leaders, compete with lion prides for mastery of the plains. They employ pack tactics similar to those used by wolves, but these creatures are far more intelligent. Of all their prey, ambush drakes most savor the taste of human flesh. These beasts are also not sanctioned by any god. They are not true dragons, so Tiamat does not care one whit whether they live or die." This specific one looks like it's been mutated. Why you can't imagine. Originally Posted by Yuri Just FYI, This doesn't actually work when I'm 300 miles away without an internet cord (my Computer doesn't get Wi-Fi. Don't know why, been trying to fix it.) Did you warn us? Because I missed it if you did, and if you didn't, it isn't really fair. Sin observes the men and the beast, then glances back at the party." I think we can handle these fools." Kelvin wide smile appear on Kelvin face, and he replies to Sin,"This could be fun. Besides, this could be our thieves hunting cows to feed themselves. Let's try to surprise them." Spoiler Hide Yuri did tell us in the IOC thread she was going away for the weekend. If the group decide to try to approach the enemies with stealth to surprise them, here is my stealth roll if needed (you might want to take my initial roll a couple post down). Stealth : (1D20+6)[6](12) Kelvin's Status :Spoiler Hide HP :...43/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand :Sun blade long sword (light off) Offhand : Small Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Majestic Word (2/2) Word of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects : Originally Posted by Income Did you warn us? Because I missed it if you did, and if you didn't, it isn't really fair. Sin observes the men and the beast, then glances back at the party. "I think we can handle these fools." I swear I posted it in IOC. Otherwise, you're right, it's not really fair. Originally Posted by Yuri I swear I posted it in IOC. Otherwise, you're right, it's not really fair. IOC:Ah, I've been told you posted it in the IOC. I've not made it a habit of reading that. My bad. Initiative:[roll]1d20+6[/roll]Stealth:[roll]1d20+4[/roll] Initiative:(1d20+6)[25]Stealth:(1d20+4)[24] Marion will shift into his beast form as the group heads in to attack. His beast form is a sleek black panther with a slight red hue to it. Checks for Marion (which ever is needed)stealth check:(1d20+7)[9]initiative check:(1d20+9)[23] Well, Stealth was needed but unfortunately, Marion failed her stealth check. Who's there! Shouts one of them as he goes to investigate. If I'm not back in a couple of minutes unleash the beast! Everybody who hasn't, roll for initiative Kelvin a hushed voice, so only the ones close by him can hear, Kelvin says,"Lets keep one alive for questioning." Spoiler Hide Initiative :(1D20+3)[9](12) Can I go? (I'd rather not wait three days for Calvin and Togo) sure. Just let me roll for Initiative for the enemies real quick. I also need to find a map but for right now, the one guy who's coming to check on you guys is about 25 feet away straight in front of you. Spoiler Hide (1d20+6)[15] (1d20+6)[12] (1d20+6)[14] (1d20+6)[13] I move back as far as I can without compromising my awesome stealth roll (I think 10 feet). At the prospect of bloodshed, Sin's eyes light up. He mutters to himself for a moment, then breaks the tense silence, shouting,"Peasant! I place you now under the Curse of Void's End! Accept your fate!" Calling upon the unknowable power of his dark patron, Sin shrouds the "peasant" in frigid blackness darker than a moonless night, leeching his life's heat out of him. Frigid Darkness attack roll (Con vs. Fort.)(1d20+6)[10]If a hit:(2d8+4)[10]and(1d8)[3]cold damage, and the target grants combat advantage and has -3 AC until the end of my next turn. The target is visibly damaged by that. It looks like you hurt him quite a bit. Mori's turn next. Marion charges at the creature in front of him, leaping and tearing at the creature with his claws. Moves close enough to get in melee range Savage Rend attack:(1d20+3)[14]against reflex if a hit:(1d8+3)[10]damage and the target slides back one square. GAS! HELP! UNLEASH THE BEAST! He screams. IOC: It is the baddies' turns, is it not? Yeah, sorry. Getting the map up. Spoiler Hide [IMG] The first guy lets out the Beast and that's the end of his turn. The beast moves up to where the Guy right in front of you is and ends its turn. The other guys take a double move action H 9 and J9 and respectively and end their turn. (The Ambush drake is at F 10 and 11 and G 10 and 11) just High. Map messed up. One minute. Feel free to choose your positions on the map. (reasonably that is.) Which side is letters, and which is numbers? Bottom and top are numbers. The sides are letters. Sorry that it wasn't clear. 'Tis fine. Sin will be a bottom-left corner. Z1, I guess. KelvanSpoiler Hide Place Kelvin beside Sin, Z2 Lt;- I have the map all wrong. I should be in A2 (beside Sin who should be in A1 I believe) IOC: I'm having trouble understanding the map...but I did just attack the closest guy...so I'm in melee range with him... not sure which is him... the human Berserker attacks More(1d20+7)[25]vs AC(1d12+4)[11]damage.and with that, I believe it's Income's turn again. KelvanKelvan move toward the enemies singing and old war song,"The battle we go, to the grave they go!.". His last note is empowered and become a blast of energy citing the human that just closed on the Marion again, pushing his backward and making an opening for the druid to dig in teeth in. Spoiler Hide Move : Move to D7 Standard : Staggering note on the same enemy the other attacked (Berserker 2 on F9) - Range 5. Attack vs will on Berserker 2: (1D20+6)[17] Hit : 4 thunder damage and push the Berserker 2 (will only push him 1 to G9) and Marion can do a free Basic melee attack on him. Staggering Note Spoiler Hide KEYWORDS Arcane, Implement, Thunder USED Standard ACTION Ranged 10 RANGE 6 ATTACK One creature TARGET 10 vs Will DEFENSE Attack: Charisma vs. Will Hit: Charisma modifier (+4) thunder damage, and you push the target 2 squares. As a free action, an ally of your choice can make a melee basic attack against the target before, after, or during this forced movement. Unarmed: +6 attack, 4 damage ADDITIONAL EFFECTS CLASS Bard LEVEL 1 BOOK Dragon 383 Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...43/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Majestic Word (2/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects : IOC: Gas! I am flummoxed! Whose turn is it!?EDIT: I've been informed it's my turn. Well. Sin's infernal lineage awakens at the prospect of blood, and he laughs at his foe as he whispers a dark secret into his mind. (Sin uses Infernal Wrath, and then uses dreadful word on the closest enemy.) Spoiler Hide Attack roll: [roll]1d20+8[/roll] vs. Will If a hit: [roll]2d8+9[/roll] damage, and [roll]1d8[/roll] curse damage. If it hits, the target takes -4 to Will until the end of my next turn. Thrice-damned dice roller...(1d20+8)[15](2d8+9)[15](1d8)[2] Both attacks hit. The Berserker gets a free attack against Marion.(1d20+11)[23](1d12+4)[15](1d6)[2]each. 17 damage as the great axe cuts into your shoulder. Ok Marion does a basic attack against the berserker(1d20+7)[25]against armor classic it hits I do(1d8+5)[8]damage That Does not bloody him. I believe that means Sin bloodies him, and he is not within range to make an attack KelvanKelvan continue his song,"As we deliver blow after blow, our enemies blood flow.". Seeing that Sin draw the first blood on the berserker, he weaves the magic in his song toward Sin, invigorating him. Spoiler Hide Since it is Sin that bloody him, he gets 4 TEMP HP. Unless the bloodied reaction of the berserker let him move before the attack, he is out of range for a melee attack when Sin bloodies him (check my map). Yuri's Battle map. Marion moves to attack the berserker (IOC: moves to G8)attack: darting bite(1d20+3)[15]versus reflex damage:(1d10+3)[7]I also can attack the enemy in Second attack(1d20+3)[17]versus reflex damage:(1d10+3)[4]I've moved somewhere around G8 by this point, so I'll forfeit the shifting move I am supposed to get to stay where I am. The big thing (I can't remember its name and I can't find my copy of Draconomicon.) moves towards Kelvin. Also, due to the fact I can't find the Draconomicon he will hold his attack. The other Human will make a beeline for Sin taking a double move action. The last two will attack Marion(1d20+4)[13]VS AC(1d20+4)[5]VS AC(1d12+4)[5](1d8+1)[9](In the future, remember to tell me which defense an attack targets.) Ambush drake will attack Kelvin.(1d20+11)[23]VS ACdamage(2d6+3)[11] KelvanThe beast manage to take a good bite at Kelvin. As he starts to sing, his blade starts to emit a white light. In fear our enemies scatter, as we regroup together. During his first verse, Kelvin should blast him front of him, hitting his enemies and reorganizing some positions. During the second verse, Sin is slid toward the group." Our strength multiplied as we gather, our charge will finish these monsters." Kelvan magic revivify himself and move himself closer to the beast. He then strike solidly, showing his allies the way. Spoiler Hide Free : Turn on light on Sun blade (bright light radius 20) Free :Turn on radiant damage Standard : Shout of Triumph in E8-G10. Attack on the Beast VS FORT: (1D20+6)[22] Attack on the Barbarian (The bloodied one) VS FORT: (1D20+6)[24] Hit :(1D6+4)[9] thunder damage and the enemies are pushed (up to 3). (beast is pushed 1 to E9/D10, Barbarian isn't pushed at all) Effect : Marion is slid to G6. Move :Moment of Escape on Sin : Slide him to B5 Minor :Majestic word on Kelvin, slide him to E8 Free : Action point : Charger's call on Beast. Attack on the Beast VS AC: (1D20+10)[19] (probably a miss) Hit :(1D8+4)[11] radiant damage and each ally within 5 squares of you gains a +4 bonuses to attack rolls while charging until the end of Kelvin next turn. (this affect both my allies) Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...43/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (2/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Effects from Kelvin : Combat Map Just for kicks, I'm going to bust out my daily. Din holds out his hand, and draws forth a perfect sphere of cold, white light hovering just above his fingertips. He draws his arm back, and, with a predatory grin, he gestures toward his foe, (the human in B2) launching the orb." You will learn the meaning of pain,"Sin intones,"for I will not grant you the blessing of a slow death. No, you be awake and suffering for a very long time. This is the consequence of meddling in the affairs of your superiors, peasant,"he concludes self-righteously. Suddenly, a salvo of radiant lances erupt from the sphere, and they pin the human, remaining inside him as he struggles. Spoiler Hide Attack roll: (1d20+7)[24] against will. Remember the target has -4 will for being hit by Dreadful Word. Damage roll: (3d6+7)[15] and if I hit, he is immobilized until the start of my next turn, and takes -2 will defense (save ends). Yay, rebuffs! Forgot my curse damage:(1d8)[6] Marion growls leaping back at the enemy in G9 tearing at him, before shifting down to attack the big guy with his claws Spoiler Hide Moves up to G8 and performs predator's flurry attack against the enemy in G9's reflex (1d20+5)[25] damage if hit: (1d6+3)[4] and he is dazed until the end of my next turn shift to F8 then attack again attack against the big guy's reflex (1d20+5)[7] damage if hit: (1d6+3)[7] and dazed until the end of my next turn The two humans attack Marion on their turn. The one near sin does nothing, and I'm assuming Kelvin is the one next to the ambush drake. Correct me if I'm wrong about that. Ambush drake(1d20+11)[31]Vs AC(2d6+3)[12]damage(1d20+7)[27]Vs AC(1d12+4)[5]damage(1d20+4)[20]vs AC(1d8+1)[5]damage Kelvins tone changing for the tune, Kelvin use his voice to regenerate and adjust Marion position." It's walking thought piles of bodies, knee-deep in our enemies' guts, That we barbarian carved our stories, long after their corpses rot." As he sings, Kelvin closed on the injured barbarian and slash at him. Spoiler Hide Minor :Majestic word on Marion (spend a healing surge +4) and slide Marion to G8. Move : Shift to F8 Standard : War Song Strike on the bloodied Barbarian : Attack VS AC : (1D20+10)[13] Hit : (1D8+7)[10] radiant damage and any ally who hits the target before the end of Boats next turn gains temporary 3 hit points. Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...28/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (0/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Effects from Kelvin : Combat Map Sin calmly walks to E6, and as he does so, shadows pool around him, obscuring his figure. Sin turns on the human who has been attempting in vain to attack him, and calls down a shaft of frigid, deathly light. Spoiler Hide Move to E6, use shadow walk to gain concealment. Use Dire Radiance on the human. Attack: (1d20+6)[9] vs. Fort Lt;--Lol Damage: (1d6+6)[11] And if he comes closer to me on his next turn. This much more damage: (1d6+6)[9] Marion attacks the guy in G9, ripping at him with his sharp claws. Spoiler Hide (1d20+5)[20] against reflex if hit: (1d8+3)[7] and he is slid back one square You hit, and he is slid back one square. I believe that actually kills the human berserker. My fault. All the following attacks target ACambush drake attacks Kelvin(1d20+11)[24]damage(2d6+3)[9]human bandit attacks Marion (Or was that a berserker?)(1d20+4)[19](1d8+1)[4]and if he hits he shifts a square backwards. Human berserker moves up to and attacks sin. (If this was the bandit, switch the attack and damage values with the correct number.)(1d20+7)[13](1d12+4)[12]Before anybody says anything, yes, I need to keep better notes. Or any notes at all. That would help. KelvanThe great beast manage to bite Kelvin. Kelvan's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...19/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (0/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Effects from Kelvin : Combat Map Originally Posted by Yuri I believe that actually kills the human berserker. My fault. All the following attacks target AC ambush drake attacks Kelvin [roll0] damage[roll1] human bandit attacks Marion (Or was that a berserker?) [roll2] [roll3] and if he hits he shifts a square backwards. Human berserker moves up to and attacks sin. (If this was the bandit, switch the attack and damage values with the correct number.) [roll4] [roll5] Before anybody says anything, yes, I need to keep better notes. Or any notes at all. That would help. Pretty sure my guy wasn't a berserker, because it was the berserker who pwned that guy who wasn't me. Originally Posted by Income Pretty sure my guy wasn't a berserker, because it was the berserker who pwned that guy who wasn't me. Okay then, so unless your AC is nine he misses. ... I think I'm good. Kelvin"To the battle we go, to the grave they go." Kelvan poke the berserker side to finish him off. Spoiler Hide Standard : War Song Strike on Berserker (G9). Attack roll VS AC : (1D20+10)[19] Hit : (1D8+5)[6] radiant damage and any ally that hit the Berserker before the end on Kelvin next turn gain 3 temp HP. Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...19/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...10/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (0/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Effects from Kelvin : Any Ally who hit Berserker (G9) gain 3 temp HP Combat Map Sin once more calmly strides across the cave, its shadows gathering around him and obscuring his figure. He calls down another frigid shaft of light, its deadly touch bringing ruin to the bandit's very soul. Spoiler Hide Walk to E5. Use dire radiance on the bandit that I've been fighting. Attack roll: (1d20+6)[15] vs. Fort Damage: (1d6+6)[12], another (1d6+6)[9] if he gets any closer to me. Curse damage: (1d8)[5] Marion attacks the one in H9 with his claws Spoiler Hide (1d20+5)[6] against enemy's Reflex. If a hit: (1d8+3)[8] damage, and he is slid back one square Bandit attacks Marion(1d20+4)[24]damage(1d8+1)[2]Bandit attacks sin(1d20+4)[24]damage(1d8+1)[8]Ambush Drake attacks Kelvin.(1d20+11)[19]damage(2d6+3)[11]Wow. Double critical. Nine damage then. KelvanKelvan barely block the large beast attack. He then takes some time on defensive to regain his breath." Our great hammers crushing bones, making them fall dead upon the stones. "Spoiler Hide Standard :Second wind. Minor : Amulet of life power (spend an additional healing surge). Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...39/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...7/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (0/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Second wind (+2 to all defenses) [B]Effects from Kelvin : Combat Map Sin recoils in pain as the bandit deals a heavy blow." How dare you? I will show you the meaning of torment for that!"(Man, I had 23 AC this round, too. [Dark leaf Armor, Defiant Implement :D]) Hey, I can't control what the dice roller says. Although I can be more careful about typing things in. A vortex of darkness erupts around Sin, causing him to disappear. He materializes at H7, the shadows still clinging to him and obscuring his figure. He points his rod once more at the bandit he's been fighting, calling down another shaft of deathly light. Spoiler Hide Sin uses Ethereal Stride to teleport to H7, giving me +4 to all defenses SENT. (Shadow Walk, plus the Ethereal Stride power itself.) Then I'm using Dire Radiance again. Attack roll: (1d20+6)[13] Lt;--This is versus Fort, sorry for making that clear. Damage: (1d6+6)[8] and (1d6+6)[9] if he gets any closer to me. Kelvins Sin finish off the bandit, Kelvin voice raise higher, letting the magic flow toward Sin and bolster him. Spoiler Hide Free :Virtue of valor on Sin : Gain 4 Temp HPS. Kelvin's Status Spoiler Hide HP :...39/43...TEMP HP :...0 Surge Value :...10 Surge left/surge per day :...7/10 AC:...20...FORT:...17... REF:...17...WILL:...19... Main Hand : Sun blade Long sword+1 Offhand : Light Shield Powers : Guiding Strike Staggering Note War Song Strike Action Point (0/1) Second Wind Majestic Word (0/2) Words of Friendship Shout of Triumph Charger's Call Verse of Triumph Moment of Escape (Encounter) Items powers : Sun blade Long sword +1 (Daily) Scald's Armor (Daily) Amulet of life (Encounter) Acrobat Boots (At-will) Effects on Kelvin: Sun blade emit 20 square radius light. Sun blade radiant damage activated. Second wind (+2 to all defenses) Virtue of Valor used this round. [B]Effects from Kelvin : Combat Map

evil ascendant in character thread group 1.|rating:3.0

The Dragon's Gold (CLOSED!)

-STORY-You have received a letter from the Duke of the Iron Empire of Kibosh"Attention all mercenaries, vagabonds, and explorers. Your Honorable and Exalted Emperor as come forth asking for brave adventurers to lead the charge into foreign lands, to secure a newly discovered mineral, needed by our leading inventors and engineers to construct weapons capable of ending the war. Show this letter to the Dock Master to receive a ticket on a steam liner to The Whispering Jungle, located in The Sea of Daggers. You will meet up with our Elite detachment, The Iron Covenant, for further orders. All you need to know now is that each of pound of mineral you bring back earns you 50,000 gold pieces. I wish you all Godspeed. Sincerely, Duke Axles Galley"Days after arriving at the island, you are being briefed by Commander Within, of the Iron Covenant." So, some new bloods. Well, listen well. We've been holding this beach for a month now, and haven't been able to advance. The natives... They're not human. They seem to walk like men, and some speak like men, but they are also part beast. Furthermore, they're very protective of this land, and will attack anyone they see. We've been getting reports that... They eat they're victims whole... and alive... They're also actively mining out the ore our Emperor as brought here to find. But they seem to be taking it to some temple. Scouts report that some kind of... Dragon... Lives within. We had him taken to the infirmary to check his mental condition. But one thing's sure. They're taking all the mineral for themselves. I'm ordering a retreat, but if any of you are nutty enough to try and take some of that back... Well, I gave you my warning...""-SETTING-This RP takes place on a large island, that's mostly jungle, There is a mountain temple in the middle where the Dragon resides. The Iron Covenant's base is to the south. There are mines for the ore in the west of the island. Humans are using Steampunk-issue technology. Weapons like revolvers, battling guns, and small energy-based weapons are acceptable, as are items like Jetpacks and the like. Not that your character's status in society affects what kind of tools they can bring with them. Humans cannot use magic, or anything similar. Only Native Shamans and Witch doctors can use magic. Other areas will be updated later.-RULES-Just a few simple rules, that are subject to change at any moment.1. You can be as many characters as you want so long as you think you can handle it.2. All types of more are allowed, but I request that you either put up a warning or a spoiler tag for more mature types, such as Anal, Cock, or Hard. This also applies for sex. Feel free to PM me if you have questions.3. Put effort into your posts please, this isn't a one-liner kind of role-play. I request a minimum of five sentences per post. At least form complete sentences if you are unable to do more than one line for some odd reason. I'm not asking for paragraphs upon paragraphs, just a little more effort would be highly appreciated and less headache inducing.4. Be creative and have fun, this role-play is meant to be fun and to be creative with it. Feel free to make your own technologies, corporations, and such.-PROFILES-These are required to post in this RP. Please PM me your profiles for me to review. If I like it, I'll send you a message saying your accepted, and I will move it to a separate thread (Which I will link to in the next post. If I do not say you are accepted, do no post please. Please be patient with me. Name:Nicknames: (If any)Age:Native?: (If you are, say what kind. If not, say no)Sexuality:Personality:Appearance: (if using a picture, spoiler tag please.) Talents:More Preferences:Bio: (Optional.) -RELATED LINKS-lviewtopic.php?f=19&t=41519lOOC Threadlviewtopic.php?f=19&t=41518lProfile Thread (NO POSTING) The Thread is now open! Neuss was slithering in a nearby glen, picking flowers. She had finished her duties in the temple early, and had some time to herself. She sang cheerfully to herself as she grabbed a large pink lily of sorts, followed by a bundle of small purple blooms. Furthermore, she smiled widely, revealing fanged maw and deep blue tongue. Furthermore, she set the flowers dainty in a basket she made, before slithering off to another patch. Furthermore, she stopped sometimes to look around, and make sure no invaders had been watching her. Furthermore, she did not know what they want, other than to steal the great dragon's ore. The simply appeared one day, spying on the mines. At the time, on one paid them any mind, but soon, an armed force of them was upon the shore, causing the many tribes to band together, to protect their lands, as well as the golden metal that spared them the wrath of the mighty dragon. After seeing no one, she continued picking flowers, still singing to herself. Allen sighed as he wandered through the forest, he had given one of the beast patrols the slip with a clever use of flash powder and his climbing skills, unfortunately that had gotten him lost in the process, until he could hear singing and slowly approached the glade where the nāga was, he watched quietly from behind a tree, shifting just a bit and accidentally breaking a branch underfoot, he stops and tries to hide the best he can behind the tree, Maria was climbing through the trees and going around leisurely and almost carefree. She was using the trees to get around easily without being seen. This would be the easiest score she ever got. She just had to sneak in find the mineral or whatever. Find out how much it is worth and sell it behind the people who hired hers backs. It was simple and would get her paid well. As she fantasized about what she would do with the money she lost her footing and fell toward the ground she tried to catch herself but only managed to slow her fall as she landed on the ground. She rubbed her back. She landed in some flowers and in front of her was... "A Nāga!", she exclaimed and tried to jump back but just ended up falling on her butt a foot away from the Nāga. Don't worry Marcus... You can do this..." The young thief thought to himself as he stealthily traversed the land, keeping to the shadows and trees to keep himself hidden. He had expected this to be an easy job, just travel to this land, get one or two pounds of the mineral and never have to worry about money again. He wasn't exactly planning on having to deal with man eating natives as well." I really hope this wasn't a bad idea..."he thought as he kept pace, looking for any source of the mineral he could find. Neuss stopped her singing as soon as she heard some sticks cracking in the distance. Was it one of the invaders, or just a harmless animal? But her curiosity soon changed when one of the invaders damn near fell on top of her from the sky. She just stared for a moment at the female, and up where she fell before the invader tried to run away. While she wasn't much of a fighter, she could not let someone here to steal her beloved dragon's precious metal escape. She quickly lashed out with her tail in an attempt to coil around the scantily clad woman. She just hissed violently, refusing to speak at the moment. Maria tried to run, but her feet were quickly entrapped in Neuss's coils. He tripped and fell again this time barely catching herself before landing on her face. Her ass was in the air facing Neuss before she quickly whipped around to face Neuss. "Um hello there. I am so sorry I dropped in on you so rudely. I was in the trees and a branch snapped and... wow... You are beautiful...," she said trailing off and looking at NASA as if awestruck by her beauty. She was having a hard time balancing with her feet being entrapped and decided to just sit on Neuss's coils and enjoy her view. "Was that singing you earlier? You have a beautiful voice. I am a bit of a singer myself," she says. At this point she is trying to make conversation happen so she can keep everything on the nāga's mind besides hunger. Allen watched as the girl fell in a storm of branch bits and debris, he watches her stutter as she backs away slowly, wondering if he should help, but curious to what was going to happen next, Neuss growled as her coils wrapped only around the legs of the invading woman. But apparently, that was all that was needed to disable the thief. The dark haired woman was quickly pleading for her life when her interests seemed to change suddenly. The complements were quite sudden and puzzling to the nāga, who quickly loosened her grip on the human. The female then mentioned how she likes to sing herself. She sat on the snake woman's tail, causing her to wince slightly, but toughed it out. Seeing that the other wished to talk for now, the priestess would indulge her, if only for her honed words. "Yes... That was me. It is one of my duties as high priestess to sing for the Great Dragon." She was taught by the Beast in the strange tongue years ago. At the time, she had no idea why he insisted on teaching her this language, but it was serving her well as of now. I smiled as I stepped out from behind my hiding place and approached slowly, looking very professional as I did so, "my have you ever thought of entertaining others with that magnificent voice, between your voice and my performing skills we could be truly spectacular together," I said with a warm smile, my features soft and kind looking, my rather thin body speaking volumes that I had never seen a day of hard labor, it was an athletes build, meant to favor speed over strength, Maria noticed her wince when she sat, and she stood back up but was a bit wobbly due to the surrounding coils. She smiled at the nāga in front of her and listened to her words. "High priestess, huh? That is quite the extravagant title. Your singing is amazing. I can hear why the Great Dragon would want to hear such a voice," she said with a smile. She reached down and rubbed her coils gently. "I know I am an outsider, and you do not want me running, but I do not want to run. I just want to chat if that is okay. If it is okay with you, I would like to move a little closer to you," she said. To prove she meant no harm she pulled out her knife and set it on the ground slowly so not to startle her. "My name is Maria. What is your name cuties?", she asked winking at the nāga. She then heard a voice behind her and looked. She smiled. He would so be her ticket out of here if need be. Deep within the forest, the ruins of a great sky ship could be found. It had looked to possibly house almost 1000 men, who all could live quite comfortably here. But, now it only held one single person, a wood elf. This wood elf had lived in that great ruin for his entire life, and although the outside may look abandoned the inside was bustling with life. The elf was an inventor who goes by the name of Blue Talon. He knows of the Great Dragon who lives on the island, but he's not very keen on giving up his great ore, he only gave enough for the others to leave him alone. They did not like his inventions, in fact some hated them. But, the elf was very interested in this "technology" still, and he has gotten hold of much of it as he could. Currently, he was deep within a large room filled with metal contraptions, each one built by him. He was sitting at a table, putting together another device. There was a small steam generator attached to it, as well as a glass bulb and a switch. After putting the last pieces together, he flicked the switch, and light shined from the glass bulb. "Ha ha! I've done it! I've created light!" He said happily. Because he did not know much of technology, it was rare for anything of his to work. But this did, and the elf was overjoyed. Once others had seen his word, they would at last respect technology and adapt it like he did. Neuss watched as the human woman, named Maria stood up, relieving the pressing weight on her tail. The female smiled and kept offering honed words to her. The priestess blushed, covering her face with her hands. "W-Why, thank you. I never expected such kind words from your kind. The Great Beast does indeed love my songs." She watched as the that's hand ran down her tail. Neuss was quite the pudgy figure, although most of the weight was in her belly and hips, giving her an apple shape to her upper half. However, soft fat covered all of her body, including her tail, which squished under Maria's hand. The outsider then made her intentions clear, disarming herself as she spoke of wanting to get closer. The snake-like creature watched. After a moment of thought, she unrolled her length around her captive, letting her move freely. "My name is Neuss. I'm... glad to meet you Maria." Just then, another outsider appeared, again causing her to go on the defensive. "I would never dare to leave the Great Dragon. My songs are for his praise, and it alone." Her face was again a hard snarl, not quite trusting of the new visitor. He seemed quite scrawny, and unable to fight her off for long. But she had heard rumors of the invaders and they're weapons. Black sand that erupted in flame, and staves of iron and wood, that killed those that they pointed at. She prayed that he held no such witchcraft upon him. He held up his hands and turned around showing he wasn't armed, then he approached her, and with a flourish produced a single red rose, "I never said for you to leave him, but haven't you thought about bringing the joy of your music to your own people?" He asked smiling, Maria cooed when she felt how soft and pudgy Neuss was. She ran a gentle hand along her tail as she approached her. When she was right next to her, she got a better look at her figure. She whistled at the sight of her. "It is truly nice to meet you to Neuss. Your ski Ales and body feel so amazing. How do you keep such and angelic figure?", she asked as her hands can read d here. She stood right next to Neuss and smiled at her. Neuss just glared at the strange man. Whoever he was, the nāga didn't appreciate his mannerisms. Thankfully, she was distracted by the touch of Maria, and her compliments. The snake-like female giggled. "Well, being High Priestess, many of the people in my tribe make offerings to me as well as the Dragon. And then there are the feasts we hold in His honor. Although with your kind attacking us, we didn't have the last one. The Mighty Dragon was saddened by this." As she spoke, a deep rumbling sounded from her tail. Neuss blushed, placing a hand on her human belly. "Forgive me. It must be time for lunch... I should head back home and get something to eat." Hyperion sighed as he lounged in his room, it had been so long his ship crashed on this planet, he wondered if his family had written him off as dead or not, because of the local humans on this planet attacking him and his servants they had to skip this year's feast, which was one of the very few things he had to look forward too, he wondered vaguely how much of the ore had been mined out, he had sighed as he looked over at this favorite concubine that he often bedded, (That is a free slow if someone's interested), Maria smiled at her. "It sounds like your tribe thinks very highly of you. I can see why. I just met you and I think very highly of you," she said with a wink and used both of her hands to rub her tail gently. "I am sorry my kind has caused you so much trouble. We humans can be quite self-centered sometimes. I am sorry about my kind. I wish I could make it up to you," she said with a warm smile. She froze when she felt it rumble under her hands. Her eye widened with worry about a moment but shook it off quickly. "Oh my you sound quite hungry. I will let you go to your lunch than. Will I be able to see you again my beautiful priestess," she asked sounding hopeful? Neuss watched as Maria seemed to become very nervous around the nāga's hunger, for not exactly unwanted reasons. But the priestess sought to put the woman's mind at ease. "Don't worry. There's plenty of food back at the temple. I'll be fine. We should meet back here later though. I wouldn't advise trying to enter my village alone. Not unless you desire to be someone else's lunch." She waved goodbye to the two humans, and slithered east, towards a worn dirt path. Half an hour later, she had returned to the Dragon's Temple. She set her basket of flowers down at the offering altar, and slithered over to the temple pantry, eager to fill the gnawing hunger within herself. Furthermore, she flung the doors open, revealing a just barely substantial amount of dried meats, fish, and fruit, along with some hard bread, and root vegetables. The nāga woman took some chunks of meat, and a satchel of dried berries, and went back to her chambers. Along the way, she heard noises coming from her Lord's chambers. While she was told to never enter without his permission, she was curious as to what the noises were. Putting her better judgement aside, she set her provisions down near the door, and cracked it open, only peering inside. He had only revealed his author body to his fox concubine, so when Neuss peeked in, she sees an author dragon bustling around the great dragons room, picking stuff up, tossing bits and pieces into a bag, so anyone not knowing about him would come to one of two realizations, either someone was cleaning, or robbing the great dragon, As Neuss peered in, she saw an unfamiliar reptilian-looking being in the Master's room, seemingly taking thing. Feeling a great spike of anger, she shoved the door open and started shouting. "You are not supposed to be in here! This is the Great Dragon's chambers, and I will not tolerate thieves!" He turns towards her, same cold and calculating look as the great dragon has so very often given most of those that reside with him, "first who are you to barge into my room, and second I am not stealing my own personal belongings," he said in a very similar voice to the great dragons, Maria sighed with relief. "Okay I have just met one to many monster bellies from the inside and I get a little nervous around things that are hungry and are bigger than me," she said with a chuckle. She smiled and waved at Neuss as she left. "I will come back here to see you Just start singing again, and I will make my way back following your beautiful voice," she said. She smirked as she left and started to follow her stealthily. She followed her and watched her enter the dragon's domain. Furthermore, she peered in to see her talking with someone that was apparently trying to take the dragon's things... Or wait. That is his stuff? Maria was a little confused as what was going on, but she kept perfectly hidden. Rose wandered the forest. She got separated from her party a long time ago and was just trying to find anything at this point. Her stomach was growling at her complaining about how empty it was. She walked for a while before seeing an elf male. She drew her sword and took her shield off her back. Furthermore, she stared him down and tried to see if he would make a move at her. "I have got to show someone this!" Blue said happily. Then, he grabbed the light device and put it in his pocket, then grabbed his pair of goggles laying on the table and placed them over his eyes. While he might be very smart, he is slightly near-sighted, but luckily this ship had many things that he used to help increase his chance of survival. Like these goggles, although he made the lenses himself. With that, he began to walk out of the ruins of the old sky ship in which he made him home and began to walk deeper into the forest. Blue was not hungry right now, as he had eaten a few hours ago. Instead, he was looking for someone to show his work, and who would accept it. After a while of wandering, Blue spotted a strange looking humanoid, but apparently she spotted him as soon as he did, and drew her sword to prepare for battle. "Woah woah woah! I'm not going to hurt you! I'm just... can you please put your sword away? Furthermore, I get a bit nervous when someone points a sharp metal object at me." Blue said in a nervous tone as he backed up. Rose starred at the elf for a moment and looked his over. He did not seem threatening. She put her sword away but kept out her shield. He was an elf that much was true which to her meant he could and would very well eat a human. Her eyes seemed to look at him more curiously than threateningly. "I know your kind eat mine monster. If you think you will be making a meal out of me you have another thing coming," she said her hand on the hilt of her sword. She was not a mean person, but she was taught that the creatures of this place all would like nothing more than to eat someone like her with no remorse. She approached him slowly. Neuss looks confused at the man-like dragon standing before her. He claimed this was his room, and he sounded like the Great Beast she revered. He even looked like Him to an extent. She put the pieces together, her eyes widening as she realized who he was. Tears then started to stream down her face as she quickly fell to his feet, deeply bowing. "My Lord!? I-I did not know! I-I have never seen you in this form. P-Please forgive your devoted servant! I-I only W-Want to protect y-you..." She started muttering some kind of prayer in her native tongue, sobbing breaths in between. Her sapphire blue eyes looked up at the humanoid dragon, hoping to see his anger subside. "Me? A monster, no. I'm not very keen on eating... well, humans. I'm not like the other people here, like the nāga, or the neo, or... well, basically everything else. Furthermore, I'm just an innocent inventor! Please, don't kill me. I'll just go run off and find someone else to show my work to." Blue said as he backed away once again as Rose approached him. The gleam of his eyes behind his goggles said one thing, true. His word was painted all over his face and his body language as well, and the fact that his ears were slightly bent down to fit his scared emotion. Maybe this guy was true? Who knows, but he seemed innocent. Weak, even. He chuckles as he approaches her, "do not fear, I understand for I have but revealed this form to only one other," he said stopping before her, "planning on lunch? Didn't catch anyone today?" He asked curious, knowing her appetite was rather large at times, Rose looked at him curiously. She put her shield on her back and walked up to him slowly. "You are an inventor?", he asked curiously. She was always fascinated by advancements in arts and sciences. She studied quite diligently before becoming a knight. "I would love to see your work. I am sorry if I was a bit threatening before. I was just told that most everything on this island would want to eat me," he admitted. "My name is Rose," she said smiling at him warmly. Xaria stood at the doorway and watched what was happening in the dragon's lair. The human was the dragon? Hamm maybe it just had different forms. She would watch to get as much information as possible. She tried to move a little closer and ended up accidentally kicking a rock and causing it to roll into the lair. Furthermore, she quickly found a rock to hide behind and tried to make sure they would not catch her. "You... you're interested in the science of metal and technology as well?" Blue asked in a surprised voice. He hesitated at first, but he quickly pulled out his latest invention out of his pocket. "Well... nice to meet you Rose. I'm Blue, and... this is my latest work." He said. Then, he flicked the switch on the device, causing electricity to flow to the glass bulb and light it up. "I call it the... umm... I don't have a name for it yet, but it's a small device which creates light caused by a chemical reaction that uses electricity. I have more things like this I made, come along with me to my abode, and I'll show you my whole collection." He said happily. Then, with the light, he began to walk back towards his home. Neuss looked up to the humanoid dragon as he spoke, forgiving her for her near blasphemous actions. A wide smile graced her face as she slowly raised herself into a "standing" posture. "T-Thank you Master. Your benevolence is fathomless. I am unworthy of your kindness, but I thank you for it." She blushed and looked away as he mentioned her lack of finding anyone. She remembered the human woman she meet earlier. Furthermore, she knew her living god did not want these Invaders here, but she couldn't bring herself to lie to him. Taking a deep breath, she spoke. "Not exactly, Lord Hyperion. I... did find some humans... But they were nothing like you described. One... seemed to be obsessed with me... While the other... Was... Endearing in his own way. I was hoping to bring the woman to you. To show her the errors of her kinds' way, and let her the true path." Just as she finished explaining herself, she heard something linking on the stone floor, she looked down to see a pebble rolling between them. Rocks don't move on their own. She hissed violently, turning to face the door. "Who trespasses!?" She slithered out of the Beast's personal chamber, who try and find the source of the noise. Sakyubasu or otherwise known as Saki, let out a deep lioness yawn as she awoke from her slumber, wiping the sleep from her alluring cat eyes yellow, that just demanded total submission to those who laid eyes upon them, she stood her upper body up, weighted by the heavy large bountiful breasts she sported upon her chest, while her shapely plump hips rested under the soft white sheets, lifting from her bed of various furs and fabrics, red silks and black of all kind of soft fabric, she looked about the cave walls she called home, that seem to glisten and shine in a gold color, though mostly a wet black color, lit by numerous wax candles of all sizes along the edges of the wall, many standing upon what use to be previous candles melted and spent, The room was furnished with many almost random Victorian furniture, many fit for royalty, ornate gold trims and red soft pillow fabrics laid about the room, almost randomly place apart from the many bookshelves, which usually stood up against the stone cave walls filled with various books, on some of their selves random gadgets laid upon with various uses but stored there as if they were collectibles many thrown there, some looked as if they were meant to strap onto various parts of the body, goggles and gloves, as well as a few hats of all kinds, love seats and fainting chairs stood randomly place with feminine clothing that didn't belong to the author lioness, the floor littered with papers of numerous inventions, in one corner of the cave room laid a pile of weapons, swords and guns powered by steam, electricity and other means of propelling various arrows and metal bullets, Slowly, Saki stood up out of her bed, swinging her thick soft thighs over the edge and standing up, her voluptuous body swayed in the warm moist cave air, while her thick strong lioness tail snaked behind her, the darken tip brushing the floor, as she made her way to one of the rooms two excites both carved from stone, closed by a thick wooden door built with black cast iron, closing the door behind her, Saki made her way down a long dimly lit hallway, lined with fewer candles and other discarded books with a few random pieces of furniture, as she made her way down the stone hallway, there were fewer and fewer items that did not belong inside a cave, the further she walked, the more natural light filled the stone hallway, which lit up the golden like minerals that lined the walls in spots but faded as the entrance of the cave came up, standing at the mouth of the cave, Saki took in a deep breath, taking in the nice warm fresh air and the warm sunlight that peered through the thick tree tops, reaching up with both arms and standing on the tips of her paws she stretched her thick fit smooth hour glass figure, heavy DD perky breasts with black nipples that defied gravity, a smooth long belly that stopped at wide thick round shapely hips and a long tail strong enough to do damage or gentle enough to caress, strong thick thighs, long legs and sharp black claws at the tip of her paws, there was no mistake, Saki was a true predator enjoying the morning or at least her morning fresh air. Rose smiled. "It is nice to meet you blue," she said with a smile eagerly awaiting his invention. She looked like the light in awe at the light devise. "Wow Blue that is amazing. How did you get the electricity to flow so well through the devise without making it overheat or burst from the sudden jolt of energy?" she asked. She never expected to meet someone like this in such a place. She bowed her head and followed him. "I would be honored to come to your home," she said with a smile. Xaria tried to stay hidden behind the rock when she heard Neuss's voice yell out. She knew she was not well hidden and hoped her nāga friend would not be too mad at her. She tentatively looked out from behind the rock to see the angry nāga. Furthermore, she stood up slowly to not startle her. "Vanessa it is me Maria. I am sorry I should not have followed you. I-I was just curious about you. I never found out when you wanted to meet up again and I-I just wanted to know more about you...," she said as she looked down at her feet. "I am really sorry. P-please do not feed me to the dragon or something. I-I just wanted to be with you.". Hyperion walks up behind Neuss dressed loosely in a rather beautiful kimono that complimented his black fur and dark blue scales, "is this the human you were telling me about?" He asked Neuss as he examine her from a distance, Inside a rather large tattered dark tan tent, In waited patiently sucking on a lollipop, her eyes fixed on one of many beakers on the large wooden table in the middle of the tent, filled with other glass tubes, clear hoses and other related items, inside the large glass beaker a black liquid substance seem to move on its own, swirling around and occasionally making a sharp thinking sound as if tapping on the glass," Come on.... Come on..." In said anxiously but not a moment later the strange black substance began to make a new sound and began to give off a black smoke," uh-oh" In said innocently and took cover behind a wooden desk covered in paper notes and other sorted items, *BOOM!!* glass and metal objects went flying through the air, catching one of the walls of the patched up tent on fire, Rin quickly hurried to the wall of her tent on fire and threw a readied bucket of water on it, set aside as if something like this was expected and had happened before, though the tent In lived in would help give a clearer story, the tent more of patches of dark tan fabrics more than actual tent, it was clear this wasn't the first time something blew up, went flying, melted, caught fire to the tent, a great many experiments had been tested, some a success but many more failed, Letting out a deep sigh, In moved to one side of the table in the middle of the tent and reached under it to pick up a dark straw broom and began to sweep up the broken glass, sweeping it all into a bucket as she moved along, cleaning up after another failed attempt at something she had been working on sense she returned to the island. Neuss's face softened as Maria showed herself, apologizing for following her. "It's... Fine... But how did you get past all the guards?" Her question was soon interrupted by Hyperion asking about the surprise guest. "Y-yes, Great Lord Hyperion. She is the one I humbly request to bring into your flock." The nāga was again bent down into a bowing posture. Although she wished to introduce the human when her master's mood was not already soured by the mistaken identity, she had little choice at the moment. She tried to plead the human female's case, but if it was his will to devour her, then the Priestess would exercise it. He looks her over, "I have two simple questions for you to answer, and your answers decide whether you walk away, or are carried away, why did you come here, and why should I let you into my flock?" He said with a slightly amused smile, Saki looked about the forest, the air humid, warm. . . Relaxing, "Mmm" she said to herself smiling, taking in another deep breath and letting it out, the lioness stepped off the wide flat rock at the mouth of her cave and planted her feet in the forest's soft dirt ground and began to walk, taking a morning walk through the forest, swaying those soft round hips and that lioness tail of hers. Maria saw Neuss bow and she did the same. She got extremely nervous not wanting to confront the dragon at all while here. She had two smoke bombs up her sleeves ready if she needed a way out. "Oh great dragon Hyperion I am sorry for intruding on your domain," she said before he spoke and asked his questions. She gulped nervously not liking the smile he had. She stood and looked at her feet in shame and sighed. "I-I was sent here to do what all the other humans were sent to do. I was sent here to get the minerals from you, but I had no real a to allegiance to the people that sent me I was just going to get paid to survive. I planed on just doing my job and going home being told that there were no sentient beings here just monsters, but then I met Neuss and found out I was misled. Furthermore, I do not want to get the material any more I kinda like Neuss and want to get to know her and about her people I mean besides the diet part," she said. "As for why you should let me join your flock. If you let me join I would work hard to contribute any way I can and Neuss can keep an eye on me and teach me the ways of your people," he said not really sure how she could contribute to anything here. (Finished my post) magicalcheeterman wrote:Rose smiled. "It is nice to meet you blue," she said with a smile eagerly awaiting his invention. She looked like the light in awe at the light devise. "Wow Blue that is amazing. How did you get the electricity to flow so well through the devise without making it overheat or burst from the sudden jolt of energy?" she asked. She never expected to meet someone like this in such a place. She bowed her head and followed him. "I would be honored to come to your home," she said with a smile." It's sort of hard to explain, it involves a lot of other tiny resisting devices inside of it. I think I'll call them... resistors!" Blue said happily. Soon, they reached a clearing in the woods, and crashed onto the ground was the ruin of an old sky ship. It looked like the thing had been here for years, as all sorts of plants were growing on it. The only things which looked fresh were the windows and a door carved into the side. "Well... here we are! Home sweet home!" Blue said happily. Then, he walked up to the door and pulled out a key. The door had a slot in the handle, and the intelligent elf inserted the key into the slot and then turned it, unlocking the door. Slowly, it opened. "There we go! Sorry about the locking device, most people around here are not fond of the art of engineering or very snoopy." He explained. Then, he walked inside. (Is anyone still here?) (I am still here.) Satisfied with her cleaning, In moved back to the now hole in the tent with a sheet of dark tan tent fabric and began to sew, her hands move precisely and quick, soon the hole was patched up and all that was left of the aftermath of her latest attempt, Letting out a heavy sigh, In moved over to a makeshift couch, made from left over tent fabric patches and wooden logs and sat down and pulled out a rather old looking, leather back tattered book and began to write in it, she used a feathered ink pin, after a moment of writing a few things down, In turned to other pages and seem to read what was written on the page, quietly sitting there reading. Rose smiled and listened. "Resistors that is brilliant. I cannot wait to see what else you have made," she said with a smile clearly excited and impressed with him, she followed him to his home and looked it over with a smile. "Wow. A sky ship", she marveled at his home. "I can understand the security. It is better to be safe than swallowed I say. Sorry for threatening you earlier. I do not know the customs well here, and I have heard everything here just wants to eat you. She followed him in. "I'm glad that you like the things I have, and I understand. Even as a resident here, people are not really friendly sometimes, which is not very good for a normally outgoing person like me. Even I have faced the horror of some people trying to eat me. But, enough about that, let's see more of my inventions, shall we?" Blue asked. Then, the elf walked up to a large steel device with a small compartment in the front. In the compartment is a spout and a button. "I present to you the water purifier! Have you ever faced the problem of a world with dirty water? Well not anymore. This wonderful machine cleans the water by filtering it and heating it to boiling temperatures to kill all the germs inside it. Then, when it's ready and cool, you simply pull out a cup and press this button." Blue said happily. Then, he grabbed a cup off a nearby table and placed it in the compartment, then he pressed the button. For the time he held the button down, clear water poured from the spout into the cup. Then the flow of water stopped as Blue let go of the button to grab the cup. "Care for a drink?" Blue asked with a smile as he held the cup out for Rose to grab. He smiles as he looks her over a bit more, "well you know, I do need a traveling companion for a bit of a trip inland plus it'll give me a chance to evaluate your skills and usefulness, and see if you have any shaping potential," he said stretching a bit, She smiled at him and bowed her head happy that she would be at least given a chance. "I would be happy to assist you anyway I can be mighty dragon," she said. "Will Neuss be joining us as well and what will I be expected to do to help you my lord?" she asked curiously Rose smiled and took the cup. She gulped the water down with a smile and gave a content sigh as she brought down the empty cup. "Mmm that is very good. Perhaps to clean though. I would possibly incorporate some sort of clean mineral addition to the water so that it does not lose its favor. Believe it or not it can be hard to drink water that is too pure. People actually really on the minerals in water to give it enough flavor to drink easily," she said trying to give constructive advice the best she could. "Some scientists back where I live were studying water and how to purify it back home and found that out the hard way when they tried to make the water to pure. They never made a machine like yours though. They never even got close to a machine this good," she said and marveled at the invention he had made. "I would rather keep it as small as possible, but if Neuss insists on joining us I won't stop her, and as for what you will be doing, well ill think of that as I go," he said leaving her with Neuss, heading back into the cave to get his bag and pack extra food for her, "Hmm... a mineral added. Brilliant idea! I'll add that in as soon as I mine the iron needed to make the parts! You are quite a smart girl, Rose. I like that! It's not often that I meet someone of such a high intelligence." Blue said with a smile. Then, he looked around at all the stuff he made. "You know, it's not easy to build all this, even just getting the materials! You see, gold is an important part in my inventions, but gold is very needed around here. The reason why is that there is a dragon currently living on this island, and... well, he demands a set amount of gold every so often, so over half of the stuff I find I have to give to him. But, that does not stop a creative genius like me from creating his works of art. So, what do you want to see next?" Blue asked with a smile. In seem to take notes on a nearby piece of parchment after reading a few more pages, making little hmm, sounds every once in a while as if considering something, finally, after writing a few more things down she stood up and tossed her large heavy old book onto the seat and began to rebuild her lab, pulling out beakers and glass tubes out of large wooden creates against one wall of the tattered tent, Just as In placed the last beaker, several bells and whistles rang out, as a rather strange contraption that would vaguely resemble a grandfather clock, now ornate pieces of gold trip, arms and really just random pieces of gold came out from different places of the grandfather clock, small and large bells hung from the pieces of gold, others seem to have tubes attached to them, nothing made sense, Yet In stood attention as the strange contraption went off, soon she was making her way towards the exit of the tent, a simple flap, walking around a rather thick tree, she made her way into a second tent, one half the size of her tattered tent she was just in, though still somewhat large, this tent seems to be a bit more lucky, seemingly unsaved by the some would say, mad scientist, inside upon rows of large cherry colored polished wood tables, laid boxes and boxes of lollipop candies, The sight bringing a smile to In's face, walking down the rows of tables, she stopped at one table with a box of lollipops, clearly labeled strawberry, which she quickly pulled one out, removed its wrapper and greedily sucked upon its flavor, wetting her soft cute lips, letting out a pleased little giggle, "Mmm" she said to herself as she made her way to the end of the tent, stopping at yet another strange contraption, this one more box like, though still had ornate gold trip and other random pieces of gold and silver, next to it a stack of tea cups, neatly place upon one another on a soft white cloth, Rin casually took a single tea cup, along with a ceramic teacup holder and placed it on a platform almost hidden inside the strange contraption, twisting a nob here, pulling a cord there and pushing several seemingly random buttons, randomly place upon the machine, each making its own unique strange sound, Rinse yes stared eagerly at the teacup as it was filled with its liquid contents, steam rising from the surface of the liquid, as the last few drops filled the cup, the machine began to sing a rather interesting tune, as if some sort of prize had been won as a tiny figuring rose from with in the contraption towards the top of it, it in some sort of dancing pose as it spun around and around, As the figuring rose to the top of its stand that held it, it suddenly exploded, eliciting a giggle from In before she reached out and took her teacup, now filled with tea, steaming as she brought it to her soft wet lips and took a sip, not bothering to remove her lollipop from her mouth, "Mmm" she said once more, visibly satisfied of the tea's taste.

The Dragon's Gold (CLOSED!)|rating:3.0

Yugioh PBP Exhibition Match_ Raykura vs Allan A. Aokage!(The death of an army_)

Deck:Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Mobius the Frost Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 8. Doomcaliber Knight 9. Doomcaliber Knight 10. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 11. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 12. D. D Assailant 13. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 14. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 15. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 16. Breaker the Magical Warrior 17. Breaker the Magical Warrior 18. Drillroid 19. Drillroid 20. Nanobreaker 21. Nanobreaker 22. D.D. Warrior Lady 23. D.D. Warrior Lady 24. Newdoria 25. Newdoria 26. Roulette Barrel 27. Heavy Storm 28. Lightning Vortex 29. Mage Power 30. Mystical Space Typhoon 31. Soul Exchange 32. Soul Exchange 33. Soul Exchange 34. Swords of Revealing Light 35. United We Stand 36. Blast Held by a Tribute 37. Blast With Chain 38. Blast With Chain 39. Bottomless Trap Hole 40. Bottomless Trap Hole 41. Chain Destruction 42. Dimensional Prison 43. Dimensional Prison 44. Dust Tornado 45. Dust Tornado 46. Malevolent Catastrophe 47. Mirror Force 48. Needle Wall 49. Sakuretsu Armor 50. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck:Spoiler Hide none A man with spiky black hair, in a dark blue coat with silver & gold trimmings, and wearing gray pants & a black t-shirt walks in, his Duel Disk being black & gray, but otherwise normal." Hello, as per Duelist Antique, shall we shake hands before beginning our duel?" He asks, as he walks to his side of the arena. He pulls out some also black dice, with grayish white numbers & throws them to the ground. Initiative:(1d20)[13](13)Opening Draws:(5d50)[32][10][41][9][29](121)Rerolls:(3d50)[9][19][28](56)After showing their numbers, the dice explode.(Edit: Huh, I got a 13 on Initiative.) Initiative =(1d20)[6]Hand: [roll]5d40[/roll]"Quite naturally, good sir." The young gentleman shook his opponent's hand." May the best man win."((If the handshake can be perceived as "god modding," I apologize. Just ask and I'll retract it. Also; screwed up the hand die roll. I'll fix it when it's my turn.)){table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|-|-|--|-|-|-|-[/table]Hand Spoiler Hide - - - - - Graveyard Spoiler Hide - Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Marauding Captain 3. Marauding Captain 4. Marauding Captain 5. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 6. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 7. Freed the Matchless General 8. Freed the Matchless General 9. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 10. Field-Commander Rah 11. Field-Commander Rah 12. Command Knight 13. Command Knight 14. Command Knight 15. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 16. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 17. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 18. Tor apart 19. Tor apart 20. Don Along 21. Elemental Hero Wild heart 22. D.D. Assailant 23. D.D. Assailant 24. Reinforcements of the Army 25. United We Stand 26. Book of Moon 27. The A. Forces 28. The A. Forces 29. The A. Forces 30. Monster Gate 31. Mystical Space Typhoon 32. The Warrior Returning Alive 33. The Warrior Returning Alive 34. The Warrior Returning Alive 35. A Feint Plan 36. Ultimate Offering 37. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 38. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 39. Limit Reverse 40. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth * post roll count doesn't match database Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Bottomless Trap Hole 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dimensional Prison 38. Dust Tornado 39. Dust Tornado 40. Malevolent Catastrophe 41. Mirror Force 42. Needle Wall 43. Sakuretsu Armor 44. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Chain Destruction Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - DCK - -- - FD - -[/table]DCK=Doom caliber Knight:1900 ATK/1800 DEF FD=Face Down.(Don't worry, I'm ok with all that.) When the gentleman shakes his opponent's hand, his opponent takes an extremely firm grip & grins." Hi, I'm Lister. And indeed, may the best man win. But that might not be you." All the while, he's smiling a toothy grin. Then he walks back to his end of the arena." I'll go first, camp; draw." Alister says, a bit more seriously than before.(1d45)[4](4)"Anyway, I'll begin with DOOMCALIBER KNIGHT in Attack Position! Let that name sink in for a while." Alister says. An evil looking knight appears, on an equally evil looking horse appears, weapon pointed forward." I'll also set one card Face-Down, camp; end my turn." (5d40)[15][28][2][33][2](80)(1d35)[3]"That horse is just adorable, so I wouldn't dare to hurt it. I activate my The A. Forces spell card, which increases the attack power of all of my Warriors by two hundred for every Warrior-or-Spell caster on my field. I will then set one card in face-down defense position. Your move, good sir."{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|F|-|--|-|A|-|-[/table]Face down - ??? TheA. Forces - Increases Warriors attack by 200 for every Warrior/Spell caster on the owner's playing field. HandSpoiler Hide -Rose, Warrior of Revenge -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -The Warrior Returning Alive FacedownSpoiler Hide Monster 3 - Warrior Lady of the Wasteland Graveyard Spoiler Hide - Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Marauding Captain 3. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 4. Freed the Matchless General 5. Freed the Matchless General 6. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 7. Field-Commander Rah 8. Field-Commander Rah 9. Command Knight 10. Command Knight 11. Command Knight 12. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 13. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 14. Tor apart 15. Tor apart 16. Don Along 17. Elemental Hero Wild heart 18. D.D. Assailant 19. D.D. Assailant 20. Reinforcements of the Army 21. United We Stand 22. Book of Moon 23. The A. Forces 24. The A. Forces 25. Monster Gate 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. The Warrior Returning Alive 28. The Warrior Returning Alive 29. A Feint Plan 30. Ultimate Offering 31. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 32. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 33. Limit Reverse 34. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth Spoiler Hide Hand: 4 Spoiler Hide Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Bottomless Trap Hole 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dimensional Prison 38. Dust Tornado 39. Malevolent Catastrophe 40. Mirror Force 41. Needle Wall 42. Sakuretsu Armor 43. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Chain Destruction Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - DCK - -- - FD -[/table]DCK=Doom caliber Knight:1900 ATK/1800 DEF FD=Face Down.(1d44)[39](39)"Well then, I'll draw, Mr. Demons-Are-Adorable." Alister says, not yet knowing his opponent's name." I set another card Face-Down, camp; attack with Doom caliber Knight, I'll then decide how to proceed with the rest of my turn depending on the results of the battle." He says all this while smiling. Then still smiling, points to his monster & yells."NOW, DOOMCALIBER KNIGHT: CHARGE, camp; SLAUGHTER THEIR DEFENSE!!" The knight's horse rears up & rushes forward, and then the knight himself impales the Face-Down monster upon his spear, lifts it, & waits angrily to see what it may or may not have killed. "You have destroyed my Warrior Lady of the Wasteland, who goes to the graveyard; her effect would activate, but your Doomcalibur Knight is in play; correct me if I'm wrong, but does he not sacrifice himself to prevent her effect from occurring...?" A sly grin passes over the gentleman's face.(1d34)[23] Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Bottomless Trap Hole 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dimensional Prison 38. Dust Tornado 39. Malevolent Catastrophe 40. Mirror Force 41. Needle Wall 42. Sakuretsu Armor 43. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Chain Destruction Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - NGOs - -- - FD -[/table]NGOs=Ninja Grandmaster Leisure:1800 ATK/1000 DEF FD=Face Down." Indeed, and that's why during my Main Phase 2, I'll summon a Warrior of my own: My Ninja Grandmaster Leisure." Alister says, smiling." Now, let's see what your counterattack is." ((Rayburn, you do know that you're meant to post out your hand/deck/graveyard and so on? Can I request that you do so in future? ^^;;))"Now that it's my turn again, I'll activate a second "The A. Forces" card. Now that I activate "The Warrior Returning Alive" to put the Warrior Lady of the Wasteland back into my hand. Now, I summon my Marauding Captain; his ability allows me to special summon the Warrior Lady of the Wasteland to the field, in face-up defense position." The young gentleman paused; inhaled." My mighty Captain cleaves Leisure in two and deals two hundred points of damage to your life points, and that brings an end to my turn."{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|M|W|--|-|A|A|-[/table]Marauding Captain -1200 + 800/400Warrior Lady of the Wasteland - 1100+800/1200(x2)Thea. Forces - Increases Warriors attack by 200 for every Warrior/Spell caster on the owner's playing field. HandSpoiler Hide -Rose, Warrior of Revenge -Marauding Captain FacedownGraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Marauding Captain 3. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 4. Freed the Matchless General 5. Freed the Matchless General 6. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 7. Field-Commander Rah 8. Field-Commander Rah 9. Command Knight 10. Command Knight 11. Command Knight 12. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 13. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 14. Tor apart 15. Tor apart 16. Don Along 17. Elemental Hero Wild heart 18. D.D. Assailant 19. D.D. Assailant 20. Reinforcements of the Army 21. United We Stand 22. Book of Moon 24. The A. Forces 25. Monster Gate 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. The Warrior Returning Alive 28. The Warrior Returning Alive 29. A Feint Plan 30. Ultimate Offering 31. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 32. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 33. Limit Reverse 34. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: 43 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Bottomless Trap Hole 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dimensional Prison 38. Dust Tornado 39. Malevolent Catastrophe 40. Mirror Force 41. Needle Wall 42. Sakuretsu Armor 43. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Chain Destruction Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - NGOs - -- - CD DT -[/table]NGOs=Ninja Grandmaster Leisure:1800 ATK/1000 DEF.CD=Chain Destruction. DT=Dust Tornado. Alister looks at the newly summoned monster." Huh, The Marauding Captain. I never liked him, y'know." Alister says." So when you summon him, I activate Chain Destruction!! This will send any other copies of him in your deck to the graveyard, thus reducing the possibility of an attack lockdown." Chains lash out of the Face-Down, and wrap around the captain, as the Warrior Lady appears to help her comrade." And when you attack, I activate DUST TORNADO, to destroy 1 of your copies of The A. Forces, reducing your monster to 1600 ATK! So YOU take the 200 damage instead!! Haha!" A massive wind of debris appears and hits The Marauding Captain, and as the wind slows his charge, Ninja Grandmaster Leisure poses, then flashes forward, leaving a trail of white light as he slashes through The Marauding Captain, instead of the other way around." Looks like your captain was the one who got marauded, heh, heh."(And I DO post my Hand/Deck/LP, etc. It's just that all of them are in a spoiler boxes, that's in a spoiler box. But don't even think about looking at the spoilers for my hand, deck, or Face-Downs until the duel is over. Cheaters aren't liked around here.) ((I didn't intend to, I just missed the spoiler box initially ^^; Keep in mind also, that if you make a move in between one of my actions, I am permitted to retake my turn up to that point. I'd always recommend activating one trap/quick-play spell at a time when interrupting actions, and asking if they would do anything different; hypothetically, I could respond to the activation of Chain Destruction by, say, summoning Freed the Brave Wanderer instead of Warrior Lady of the Wasteland or something like that. Nevertheless, I am not changing anything this time. Also; I intend to edit my hand/field/etc. during my next turn, but I am sure you can imagine my field after your cards take effect.))" Very good, young sir. Pray, proceed with your turn." ((Actually Alan because both Chain destruction and Marauding Captain's effects chain of summoning you would already pick the monster being summoned when chain destruction was activated. Be glad you did not select a second captain (though that would have prevented the loss in battle).)) ((I was just drawing an example; the "or something" would have indicated that I realized that it was a bad example. Naturally, I failed to make this clear. Just, y'know. I left out the phrasing that would indicate that. Silly me, haha~)) Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: 42 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Dimensional Prison 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dust Tornado 38. Malevolent Catastrophe 39. Mirror Force 40. Needle Wall 41. Sakuretsu Armor 42. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Bottomless Trap Hole Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - NGOs - -- - FD - -[/table]NGOs=Ninja Grandmaster Leisure:1800 ATK/1000 DEF." You know, it seems ironic that despite the fact that you're the one using Warriors, I was the first to bring out a knight. Shame he had to kill himself like that, though." Alister says, remembering the explosion of dark energy that killed the 2 monsters & stopped the Warrior Lady's effect." Now then, I draw."(1d43)[35](35)He looks at his drawn card. "I seem to not be drawing too many monsters today. Either way, 1 Spell or Trap Card Face-Down. Lister then looks ahead at the field. "Now then, it seems your Warrior Lady of The Wasteland is foolishly in Defense Position, so I'll have Leisure attack camp; kill her, camp; since his effect destroys her, you don't get to search anything out." Ninja Grandmaster Leisure flash steps forward towards the Warrior Lady, then slashes his sword in front of his opponent. A few seconds later, after he has hopped back backwards & turned around, she explodes." Your move." Alister says, smiling cheekily. (1d32)[5]Alistair's opponent drew a card." This is a turn-up for the books; I assume Ninja Grandmaster Leisure to the field, in attack position. His attack power is boosted by my remaining The A. Forces, so I will take advantage of his new-found power to defeat your Leisure."{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|S|-|--|-|A|-|-[/table]Ninja GrandmasterSasuke -1800+200/1000TheA. Forces - Increases Warriors attack by 200 for every Warrior/Spell caster on the owner's playing field. HandSpoiler Hide -Rose, Warrior of Revenge Macedon/Life Points7800GraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Warrior Lady of the Wasteland Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 3. Freed the Matchless General 4. Freed the Matchless General 5. Field-Commander Rah 6. Field-Commander Rah 7. Command Knight 8. Command Knight 9. Command Knight 10. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 11. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 12. Tor apart 13. Tor apart 14. Don Along 15. Elemental Hero Wild heart 16. D.D. Assailant 17. D.D. Assailant 18. Reinforcements of the Army 19. United We Stand 20. Book of Moon 21. The A. Forces 22. Monster Gate 23. Mystical Space Typhoon 24. The Warrior Returning Alive 25. The Warrior Returning Alive 26. A Feint Plan 27. Ultimate Offering 28. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 29. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 30. Limit Reverse 31. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth (Sorry about going away/AFK, my dog wanted a walk & I realised we had no fruit juice at home, so I went to buy 2 liters of sparkling lemonade.) Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: 42 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Dimensional Prison 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dust Tornado 38. Malevolent Catastrophe 39. Mirror Force 40. Needle Wall 41. Sakuretsu Armor 42. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Chain Destruction Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - NGOs - -- - BTH - -[/table]NGOs=Ninja Grandmaster Leisure:1800 ATK/1000 DEF." No you won't." Alister says confidently." Because I activate my Face-Down Bottomless Trap Hole." A massive, and of course, bottomless, pit opens up beneath the new Ninja Grandmaster Leisure, and swallows him up." Now then, any other moves?" Alister asks, his usual smug smile on his face.(Since I assume you're done your turn, I'm just going to draw right now.)" Anyway, while your monster falls down the pit it'll be spending the rest of its life camp; our duel in, I'll draw."(1d42)[23](23) "...TSK. I have to bring my turn to an end, then." Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: 42 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Roulette Barrel 24. Heavy Storm 25. Lightning Vortex 26. Mystical Space Typhoon 27. Soul Exchange 28. Soul Exchange 29. Swords of Revealing Light 30. United We Stand 31. Blast Held by a Tribute 32. Blast With Chain 33. Blast With Chain 34. Bottomless Trap Hole 35. Dimensional Prison 36. Dimensional Prison 37. Dust Tornado 38. Malevolent Catastrophe 39. Mirror Force 40. Needle Wall 41. Sakuretsu Armor 42. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide none Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide Roulette Barrel Stats: 8000 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - NGOs FD -- - - - -[/table]NGOs=Ninja Grandmaster Leisure:1800 ATK/1000 DEF." Right then, I'll set a monster camp; attack you directly with my own Ninja Grandmaster Leisure! GO! Bring the holographic pain to my opponent, Leisure!!" The Ninja flash steps forward, and slashes it's harmless, holographic sword through Lister's opponent's body." That is all for this turn." He says dissonant calmly. (1d31)[25]I active my newly-drawn spell; The Warrior Returning Alive! I then summon Marauding Captain to the field, which allows me to summon Rose, Warrior of Revenge. As there are now two Warrior-types on the field, Rose has 2000 attack points, so she will now destroy Leisure; you lose two-hundred points, but Rosa's effect means you lose another three-hundred in addition. Marauding Captain will take down your face-down. I end my turn.{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|M|R|--|-|A|-|-[/table]Maura ding Captain -1200+ 400/400Rose, Warrior of Revenge -1600+ 400/600TheA. Forces - Increases Warriors attack by 200 for every Warrior/Spell caster on the owner's playing field. HandSpoiler Hide - Macedon/Life Points7800GraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Warrior Lady of the Wasteland -Ninja Grandmaster Leisure -The Warrior Returning Alive Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 3. Freed the Matchless General 4. Freed the Matchless General 5. Field-Commander Rah 6. Field-Commander Rah 7. Command Knight 8. Command Knight 9. Command Knight 10. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 11. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 12. Tor apart 13. Tor apart 14. Don Along 15. Elemental Hero Wild heart 16. D.D. Assailant 17. D.D. Assailant 18. Reinforcements of the Army 19. United We Stand 20. Book of Moon 21. The A. Forces 22. Monster Gate 23. Mystical Space Typhoon 24. The Warrior Returning Alive 25. A Feint Plan 26. Ultimate Offering 27. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 28. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 29. Limit Reverse 30. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth Spoiler Hide Hand: 3 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Deck: 41 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 7. Doomcaliber Knight 8. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 9. D. D Assailant 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Breaker the Magical Warrior 15. Drillroid 16. Drillroid 17. Nanobreaker 18. Nanobreaker 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. D.D. Warrior Lady 21. Newdoria 22. Newdoria 23. Heavy Storm 24. Lightning Vortex 25. Mystical Space Typhoon 26. Soul Exchange 27. Soul Exchange 28. Swords of Revealing Light 29. United We Stand 30. Blast Held by a Tribute 31. Blast With Chain 32. Blast With Chain 33. Bottomless Trap Hole 34. Dimensional Prison 35. Dimensional Prison 36. Dust Tornado 37. Malevolent Catastrophe 38. Mirror Force 39. Needle Wall 40. Sakuretsu Armor 41. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Doom caliber Knight Dust Tornado Chain Destruction Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Bottomless Trap Hole Soul Exchange Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide none Stats: 7500 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - RTFM RB -- - - - -[/table]RTFM= Möbius the Frost Monarch:2400 ATK/1000 DEFRB=Roulette Barrel: 1000 ATK/2000 DEF"Not today he won't. My Face-Down is Roulette Barrel, with 2000 DEF!!" Alister announces proudly." Now then, I will also activate Roulette Barrel's effect, rolling 2 dice, then I'll select 1 result, camp; then I'll have to destroy a monster with the same level as the result I chose. Go, Roulette Barrel!!" He declares. Roulette Barrel begins flashing a multitude of colors, before stopping once with a "Ding!" sound effect, then repeating the process a second time.(2d6)[1][6](7)Unfortunately though, the gun merely fizzles out. At this, Lister merely sighs." Fine then, I activate Soul Exchange, which allows me to use 1 of your monsters as a Tribute this turn, so I select your Marauding Captain, camp; Tribute him to summon Möbius the Frost Monarch!!" Marauding Captain's soul is lifted out of his body, and sent to the next world, as a massive, icy creature appears, and with it, a freezing wind blasts past Rose, and destroys The A. Forces. Alister laughs." Looks like with your captain gone, who it seems, just won't stay DEAD, the courage of your warriors is ALSO gone! Hahaha!" But then the tone of his voice switches to one of annoyance. ".... Luckily for you though, Soul Exchange makes it so that I have to skip my Battle Phase for this turn. Grrr. Now get on with your move."(And as for my Draw Phase this turn, I DID Draw, it's just that I put it in the post where I activated Bottomless Trap Hole, because, as I rightly predicted, your turn would be over after that point.) (1d30)[23]"Grrr. I'll move Rosa into defense position, then place a face-down. Your turn."{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|-|R|--|-|F|-|-[/table]Rose, Warrior of Revenge - 1600/600HandSpoiler Hide - FacedownSpoiler Hide S/T 3 - Mystical Space Typhoon Life Points7800GraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Warrior Lady of the Wasteland -Ninja Grandmaster Leisure -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -The A. Forces Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 3. Freed the Matchless General 4. Freed the Matchless General 5. Field-Commander Rah 6. Field-Commander Rah 7. Command Knight 8. Command Knight 9. Command Knight 10. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 11. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 12. Tor apart 13. Tor apart 14. Don Along 15. Elemental Hero Wild heart 16. D.D. Assailant 17. D.D. Assailant 18. Reinforcements of the Army 19. United We Stand 20. Book of Moon 21. The A. Forces 22. Monster Gate 23. The Warrior Returning Alive 24. A Feint Plan 25. Ultimate Offering 26. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 27. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 28. Limit Reverse 29. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth Spoiler Hide Hand: 1 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Deck: 40 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Doomcaliber Knight 7. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 8. D. D Assailant 9. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Breaker the Magical Warrior 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Drillroid 15. Drillroid 16. Nanobreaker 17. Nanobreaker 18. D.D. Warrior Lady 19. D.D. Warrior Lady 20. Newdoria 21. Newdoria 22. Heavy Storm 23. Lightning Vortex 24. Mystical Space Typhoon 25. Soul Exchange 26. Soul Exchange 27. Swords of Revealing Light 28. United We Stand 29. Blast Held by a Tribute 30. Blast With Chain 31. Blast With Chain 32. Bottomless Trap Hole 33. Dimensional Prison 34. Dimensional Prison 35. Dust Tornado 36. Malevolent Catastrophe 37. Mirror Force 38. Needle Wall 39. Sakuretsu Armor 40. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Doom caliber Knight Dust Tornado Chain Destruction Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Bottomless Trap Hole Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide none Stats: 7500 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- - RTFM RB -- - - - -[/table]Tom= Labor the Thunder Monarch:2400 ATK/1000 DEFRB=Roulette Barrel: 1000 ATK/2000 DEF(1d41)[5](5)"DON'T GROWL AT ME, THIS IS A GENTLEMAN'S SPORT! DRAW!!" Alister yells at his opponent, all too hypocritically. He looks at his drawn card, and smiles." I sacrifice Möbius to Tribute Summon Labor the Thunder Monarch!! Now, Labor, use your ability to destroy his Face-Down!" Mobius's body begins crackling with electricity, before 2 lightning bolts come down, 1 striking Möbius, & the other striking the Face-Down monster, and Labor appears where Möbius once stood. (Continuing here, because I remembered I can't edit in rolls.)" Now then," Lister continues. "I'll activate the effect of Roulette Barrel again! It's risky, but I've only got a small chance of something bad happening. Heh, heh."(2d6)[6][1](7)He looks at the results suspiciously." Sigh. I select 1. Since there are no Level 1's, no monsters have to be destroyed. But then again, Labor is Level 5, so it doesn't really matter." "Anyway, Labor, kill his monster. After that, I end my turn." Zaborg charges up a ball of electricity in its hands, & then fires it, annihilating Rose as she screams, dying by an extremely painful electrocution that's also an execution. "Well, that isn't good,"said the young gentlemen as he drew.(1d30)[3]"...that's irritating. I'll end my turn."{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|-|-|--|-|-|-|-[/table]Hand Spoiler Hide -Freed the Matchless General Macedon/Life Points7800GraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Warrior Lady of the Wasteland -Ninja Grandmaster Leisure -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -The A. Forces Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 3. Freed the Matchless General 4. Field-Commander Rah 5. Field-Commander Rah 6. Command Knight 7. Command Knight 8. Command Knight 9. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 10. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 11. Tor apart 12. Tor apart 13. Don Along 14. Elemental Hero Wild heart 15. D.D. Assailant 16. D.D. Assailant 17. Reinforcements of the Army 18. United We Stand 19. Book of Moon 20. The A. Forces 21. Monster Gate 22. Mystical Space Typhoon 23. The Warrior Returning Alive 24. A Feint Plan 25. Ultimate Offering 26. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 27. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 28. Limit Reverse 29. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth Spoiler Hide Hand: 1 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Deck: 39 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Doomcaliber Knight 7. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 8. D. D Assailant 9. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Breaker the Magical Warrior 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Drillroid 15. Drillroid 16. Nanobreaker 17. Nanobreaker 18. D.D. Warrior Lady 19. Newdoria 20. Newdoria 21. Heavy Storm 22. Lightning Vortex 23. Mystical Space Typhoon 24. Soul Exchange 25. Soul Exchange 26. Swords of Revealing Light 27. United We Stand 28. Blast Held by a Tribute 29. Blast With Chain 30. Blast With Chain 31. Bottomless Trap Hole 32. Dimensional Prison 33. Dimensional Prison 34. Dust Tornado 35. Malevolent Catastrophe 36. Mirror Force 37. Needle Wall 38. Sakuretsu Armor 39. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Doom caliber Knight Dust Tornado Chain Destruction Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Bottomless Trap Hole Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide none Stats: 7500 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- DDWL RTFM RB -- - - - -[/table]Tom= Labor the Thunder Monarch:2400 ATK/1000 DEFRB=Roulette Barrel: 1000 ATK/2000 DEFUEL= D.D. Warrior Lady:1500 ATK/1600 DEF(1d40)[19](19)Lister looks at his opponent." I think your Duel Disk's Life Point counter is broken; it still hasn't factored in the damage from my Ninja Grandmaster Leisure's Direct Attack. Perhaps you should just forfeit and get it fixed." He says, a bit too cheery during the last part." Anyway, I summon D.D. Warrior Lady. Now, Labor! Warrior Lady! Let our opponent's blood fly through the air!!" Alister orders, yelling to his monsters. Shortly after this statement though, he tones down a little, having had a small realization.".... Well. If you weren't holograms, that is."" That's 3900 damage." Alister says to his opponent condescendingly. (1d29)[3]"... I surrender."said the young gentleman, noting that his last card was entirely useless and could not salvage him from his fate.{table=head]1|2|3|4|5-|-|-|-|--|-|-|-|-[/table]Hand Spoiler Hide -Freed the Matchless General Macedon/Life Points2100GraveyardSpoiler Hide -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -Marauding Captain -Warrior Lady of the Wasteland -Ninja Grandmaster Leisure -The Warrior Returning Alive -Marauding Captain -The A. Forces Removed From Play Spoiler Hide - Deck Spoiler Hide 1. Exiled Force 2. Warrior Lady of the Wasteland 3. Freed the Matchless General 4. Field-Commander Rah 5. Field-Commander Rah 6. Command Knight 7. Command Knight 8. Command Knight 9. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 10. Rose, Warrior of Revenge 11. Tor apart 12. Tor apart 13. Don Along 14. Elemental Hero Wild heart 15. D.D. Assailant 16. D.D. Assailant 17. Reinforcements of the Army 18. United We Stand 19. Book of Moon 20. The A. Forces 21. Monster Gate 22. Mystical Space Typhoon 23. The Warrior Returning Alive 24. A Feint Plan 25. Ultimate Offering 26. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 27. Scrap-Iron Scarecrow 28. Limit Reverse 29. Urgent Tuning Spoiler Hide 1x Goya Guardian 3x Colossal Fighter 2x Gaia Knight, the Force of the Earth ((Feel free to ignore this, though. Drawing my two Frees at the worst possible moment has to qualify as some pretty bad luck x.x)) Spoiler Hide Hand: 1 Spoiler Hide Mage Power Deck: 39 Cards in it after my Draw Phase. Spoiler Hide 1. Caius the Shadow Monarch 2. Caius the Shadow Monarch 3. Caius the Shadow Monarch 4. Mobius the Frost Monarch 5. Zaborg the Thunder Monarch 6. Doomcaliber Knight 7. Ninja Grandmaster Leisure 8. D. D Assailant 9. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 10. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 11. Disciple of the Forbidden Spell 12. Breaker the Magical Warrior 13. Breaker the Magical Warrior 14. Drillroid 15. Drillroid 16. Nanobreaker 17. Nanobreaker 18. D.D. Warrior Lady 19. Newdoria 20. Newdoria 21. Heavy Storm 22. Lightning Vortex 23. Mystical Space Typhoon 24. Soul Exchange 25. Soul Exchange 26. Swords of Revealing Light 27. United We Stand 28. Blast Held by a Tribute 29. Blast With Chain 30. Blast With Chain 31. Bottomless Trap Hole 32. Dimensional Prison 33. Dimensional Prison 34. Dust Tornado 35. Malevolent Catastrophe 36. Mirror Force 37. Needle Wall 38. Sakuretsu Armor 39. Torrential Tribute Extra Deck: Spoiler Hide none Graveyard: Spoiler Hide Doom caliber Knight Dust Tornado Chain Destruction Ninja Grandmaster Leisure Bottomless Trap Hole Soul Exchange Möbius the Frost Monarch Removed From Play: Spoiler Hide none Face Downs: Spoiler Hide none Stats: 7500 Life Points Field: {table=head]1 2 3 4 5- DDWL RTFM RB -- - - - -[/table]Tom= Labor the Thunder Monarch:2400 ATK/1000 DEFRB=Roulette Barrel: 1000 ATK/2000 DEFUEL= D.D. Warrior Lady:1500 ATK/1600 DEF (Yeah, that is bad luck. Still, I'm just going to pretend I finished the duel.)" Oh well, Möbius go out with a bang! Hologram or not!!" Alister yells. Möbius creates an enormous storm of lightning which fires at the gentleman, which just as it starts to explode on impact, fades away like all the other holograms.(Good game.)"Heh, heh. I guess I really DID slaughter your army." "Either way, it looks like this Deck is going to make things a lot easier for me. Especially concerning dealing with pesky opponents. This duel went well. Well for me. Adios." Alister then walks out of the Duel Arena with a smug smile, not even looking at his opponent as he leaves.(Sorry that I have no advice for your deck, though. Later.)

Yugioh PBP Exhibition Match_ Raykura vs Allan A. Aokage!(The death of an army_)|rating:2.0

Choose (1x1 between celebstars and randomname98766789)

Bryce Adams Simplicity, Selflessness, and charity are a few qualities that Bryce had been told to live in his entire sixteen years in existence. Being from the Abnegation faction, born to an Abnegation-born mother and Erudite-born father, he seemed to get traits from both factions. He was one of the smartest kids in the school, save for the Erudite children. Along with that, he was always a helpful guy, willing to go out of his way to lend a helping hand. It wasn't all because of the faction though, he liked to think he was a good guy in general. However, he didn't always enjoy being this simplistic and dull as he loved to watch the Dauntless jump from trains and buildings and all other kinds of things that made most other Abnegation member cringe. Stiffs, is what they were called and that wasn't a nickname he liked very much, but it seemed to be who he was. His parents were members higher up on the totem pole in the council. Abnegation were trusted public servants and Bryce was being trained to grow up in the ranks as well in the same manner as his parents. He didn't like following footsteps, though. While he loved his parents, he wanted to do what his own heart desired. Most of his free time was invested in picking up trash, helping out at the hospital, and even feeding the factionless. He did find time to keep his grades up and even maintain a rather nice physique in one of the lone gyms that they had. Because Abnegation were supposed completely forget themselves and help others, he had to sneak around in the gym to work out. He shouldn't be focused on himself so much, but he loved to lift, and he argued that it would just help him be in better shape to live a longer life which would in turn allow him to be helpful for a longer time. It all worked out in his mind. He was rather easy to find as well. With only being sixteen, he was a couple inches over six feet tall as he seemed to get the 'tall gene' from his parents. He has an older sister that chose to stay in Abnegation, and she is quite tall herself. Today was another dull day at school. He was dressed in his dull, unnoticeable gray robe and pants and attire that Abnegation always wore. It was the same every day... gray, gray, boring, dull, gray, boring. It lacked livelihood and it lacked excitement. He wasn't that content with how they were living to be quite honest. He felt that he was restrained in what he wanted to do with life. Abnegation cut their hair every three months and every six months they pick up a stack of new clothing that is identical to what they were wearing for the past six months. The only adornment that they are allowed is a simple gray watch. It was a never ending and continuous cycle. Abnegation people greet each other by formally bowing their heads, as physical contact is discouraged and therefore, feared. Physical displays of affection are forbidden and kissing in public is seen as a disgusting act. All of this, of course, didn't sit too well with Bryce either. School had just released, and he was leaving his last class of the day, which was English. One routine that he didn't mind at all was meeting his girlfriend of two years, Beatrice Prior, outside of her locker at the end of the day. The rules and regulations on public affection really seemed to irk him as they couldn't greet and kiss like he wanted. Sometimes he would steal a touch here and there to let her know that he is there and wants to feel her and kiss her. In private though, there is no need for restraint. He walked up beside of the blonde that was grabbing books out of her locker and had a smile lingering on his face at just the sight of her. Even in the most modest clothing, she still looked so attractive." Hey there..." He commented softly, leaning up slightly against the adjacent locker from her. "Hey" she smiled at him, taking the books from her locker and then closing it. Beatrice was a clever student, some would say top of her class, it was strange really, she didn't know why, she always felt rather stupid, but her way of solving problems was different to others, thankfully no one ever looked in to it. She had just finished History, learning about the world before her and the reasons why they lived the way they did now. In factions. She pondered as to why they lived like it, but it seemed to be working, some people hated it, but others just didn't care. It was life now, and people got on with it. You were born in to a faction, brought up in to adulthood and by the time you were sixteen you could either stay or choose another, but after that it was final. The ceremony was fast approaching, something which had played on Beatrice's mind. "Have you thought much about who you are going to choose? I know we haven't even had the test yet but what if we are separated?" She wanted to lean on to his shoulder, but knew people would stare and think." I have to go and feed the factionless now, I promised my parents, but after, we can meet up in the old shack out by the woods. What do you say?" Clutching her books tightly in to her chest, she had her blondish brown hair in her bun like usual and the gray clothes did her no favors, appearing baggy and worn." I'm going to have to meet up with my brother Caleb, I will see you soon." Smiling, she left Bryce and soon caught up with her brother who was walking in the corridor. The pair left the school together to make their way home. They spoke about school, the classes, and Caleb even asked about Bryce. "What about him?" She acted surprised. "You spend a lot of time with him, I'm just saying."" Why would you say something like that. Self enjoyment is discouraged among us. Do you think I would risk something like that?" Caleb apologized to his sister, which she quickly forgave. Bryce just simply shook his head at her first question. They would deal with that later when they had time alone. "Alright, I'll be there at six." He chimed in with a bright smile on his face. Six o'clock was the time they always met in that old shack. He still wasn't sure who built it or whom it belonged to beforehand, but it certainly made a nice getaway spot. As much as he hated hiding their relationship in public, it just made things that much more exciting when they saw each other. He was still thankful for what they did have though. It could be much worse. He loved her with his entire heart and knew she did the same. He didn't worry about getting separated from her because he knew he had a plan intact for the Choosing Ceremony. After departing from school, he walked home and did his daily chores. He still had a couple of hours to go, so he worked on some homework as his parents were getting in from their job on one of the councils. His sister was always in later since she was in training to do the same thing, job shadowing another lower position, secretary-like, really. He greeted them with a smile and a few words of greeting before continuing on with his work. When it was about time for him to leave to go meet Beatrice, he told his parents that he was going out to a study group, and then they would be going to hand out food to the factionless. It wasn't a total lie... he did it last week. But regardless, they agreed and off he went, still dressed in the same gray clothes since he had to travel thorough a bigger part of town to get to the shack. Finally, he got to the outskirts of their section and into the woods. No one really lived there, and it was secluded and the perfect spot for any secret, rebellious meetings. He trudged up the woods and went into the shack, plopping down on the medium-sized, worn bed that was set up. Other than the bed, there was an armchair (that wasn't too comfortable) and a few nightstands and desks here and there, but that was about it. He was ten minutes early, so he just removed his jacket and robe, leaving him in a long-sleeved gray t-shirt that was baggy around his arms but rather snug on his back, showing off his muscles a bit along with the baggy gray pants as he sat there and waited for his girlfriend. After school, the girl did as she said, carrying baskets of food around the borders of each faction where the factionless stayed. What ever faction you were thrown out of, whether it be for weakness or rule breaking, everyone would stay around just in case they were accepted back in, even though no one ever had been. It was just blind hope. Carrying two wicker baskets, one on each arm, Beatrice approached some people who looked even worse off than she did in her gray uniform. Their faces were dirty, eyes almost colorless, skin as pale as a ghost and their feet badly cut due to no footwear. Dipping her hand in to the basket, she pulled out some pieces of bread wrapped in tissue, handing it to the three people sitting under a bridge." Thank you child" one of them said. Another took her hand, shaking it. With her father watching, he smiled looking at his daughter and put his arm around her when she caught up with him. "I am proud of you Beatrice, you are everything we had hoped for." Her thoughts couldn't help but think about Bryce, the meetings with him in that shack and what her dad would think if he ever saw." I just want to make you proud" she replied, hugging him. For the next hour or so, Beatrice helped her father, along with her mother and brother up ahead feed the people who were crying with hunger. Sometimes they would give them the little medication they had, even if it meant someone from their faction had to go without. Being selfless wasn't all good. Purposely leaving some bread behind, she had a plan she wanted to put in to action." Time for us to go home" her father stated to all of them. "I still have some left, I would rather give these out still rather than it go to waste." Kissing her forehead, he gave her his blessing to continue on her own. "Come back home afterward." Now left alone, her personality wasn't so bad that she didn't actually use the bread, she still looked for people, it was in her nature. However, her course had changed, heading towards the shack in the woods of her faction. Giving her last two pieces of bread out, she carried the empty baskets and headed in to the woods, where the shack was nicely hidden by the bushes and below and the trees above. Allowing Bryce to know it was her, she knocked on the door in a pattern, knocking quickly twice with her knuckles then three times followed by once. Opening the door, which they wished had a lock, she saw him and smiled. Shutting the door behind her, Beatrice smiled and lit a lantern which filled the small shack with a warm orange glow. Lifting her hands up to the hair, she unfastened her bun, letting her hair fall down to her back. Something which only Bryce ever saw. "Hi" she said. Bryce continued to sit on the mattress, passing the time with just resting his eyes. The mattress was old and worn, but it wasn't even that uncomfortable to be honest. He twirled around some old pieces of wood that had fallen off the shack, making a game of throwing them into a certain spot he designated across the room. The last piece he threw missed rather terribly and he scoffed. A few seconds later, he heard that pattern that brought a smile to his face whenever he heard it. When the blonde beauty entered, a wide smile just engulfed his face completely. "Hi." He said in return, now standing up and walking over to Beatrice. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into a tight hug. It had been so long since they could do this, and he missed it dearly. Soon, they wouldn't have to hide it. Well, maybe not soon, but it wouldn't be as long. After the age of sixteen, it was more acceptable to be with someone to of course get married and have children. It was far off in the future, that part was, but the Choosing Ceremony was a coming of age for them both." I missed you." He whispered into her hair, breathing in that scent she had. Since they were selfless and taught to not worry about themselves, Abnegation didn't do much grooming to their body so the smell she had was mostly natural, and it smelled like heaven. After a few moments he slowly released her and walked her over to their spot on the mattress where they always like to lay and spend their time together. His strong arms wrapped around her smaller body, and he pulled her against his chest, pressing a kiss to the top of her head." How are you?" He questioned softly, raking his fingers through her hair. He honestly loved when her hair was done so he could play with it. It was a rare thing to be able to do so he was taking full advantage of it. After her answer, he thought long and hard about what they would be doing the next few days. "The Aptitude tests are tomorrow..." He reminded her softly, gazing into her eyes. "And the Choosing Ceremony in soon after." He added and told her with a nod. "I thought about what you said earlier and well... I won't let us get separated. You know that I love you more than anything in this world, right? I want to be with you, wherever that may be. We will have our tests done then we can talk about it. I'll tell you what I get. You don't have to tell me what you get if you don't want to do it though." With a small pause, he gave her a quick kiss on the cheek before continuing on. "I am choosing after you anyway, so, choose whatever you want, and I am going to follow you." He decided with a nod. The one thing that an Aptitude test couldn't show is that the only result he cared about was being with Beatrice. Despite relationships before sixteen being frowned upon, it wasn't unknown for girls to sometimes be hit on by the other boys, but she knew they wanted one thing, her body. Of course not from her own faction, but from that of others. People seemed to think that being selfless meant offering a free hand job, that was what someone said to her before, and it forever stuck in her mind that she could only ever be with someone from Abnegation. Only ever be with Bryce. Hugging him back, she liked holding him like this, it almost felt like another world. Walking to the mattress, it squeaked a little, one of the springs rusty through the years." I'm tired, I have helped a lot of people today, me and my family." She answered, her hand on his chest, her head on his shoulder as they laid together. She liked his hands running through her hair, it made her feel special, no one had ever done it before because it was always tied back." What about you?" After he replied, she heard him go on about the test and the ceremony. "I don't know what to think about it. My parents won't tell me much. The rest is just rumors, no one really knows. Just that you get a guide to know what to choose." The kiss on her cheek made her smile, he was very loving. "I want you to be happy, if that means being in another faction then so be it." She really cared for him, kissing his cheek back. "Yeah, you're right." Bryce nodded in affirmation of her statement. All the upcoming children that were at the age of sixteen only knew that the tests were supposed to tell the which faction is the best suitable for them. Of course, that didn't mean they absolutely had to choose that specific faction, but it would just fit them best. Bryce wasn't a fan of having a test decide who he was. He wanted to be himself, and he wanted to be with Beatrice. Bryce glanced at her when she spoke about being in another faction if it would make him happy. All he did was shake his head. "I know that we are raised to believe faction before blood and all this other nonsense. And I know that they say relationships don't matter when it comes to the faction because the faction comes first, but I don't live that way, Beatrice." He stopped and just smiled own at her. "My philosophy is Beatrice Prior before anything. We always choose in ascending alphabetical order, so that means that you are choosing first. I want you to choose the best faction for you, no matter which one it is, okay? Then, when it comes to my turn, I will choose the same as you. That's what I have planned and nothing can make me ever want to be in away from you." It was a law that the choosing ceremony went in the order that Bryce spoke of, so he knew they wouldn't change it. He felt comfort in knowing that no matter what happened, he and his girlfriend would still be together through it all. He wouldn't let this change anything." The only way I can be happy is if I have you, Beatrice. Nothing else can make me happy." If she had ever felt love before apart for her family, she certainly had now, she felt safe with him and very comfortable. He would know that just by the simple gesture of her hair untied and down. "I still do not know what faction I want to be in, but when I make the choice, I know I will have you." Her hand caressed his far cheek as she rested on his shoulder. Rubbing her thumb near his nose Beatrice felt like she could stay at this moment forever." I could lay like this and never leave. But my parents will wonder where I am. I have an hour maximum, need to be back before sundown." Sitting up, the bed squeaked, that spring letting them know it was still in the room. Looking at the orange glow of the lantern inside the shack, she gazed up at the walls and saw how badly beaten this place was, despite their best attempts to fix it up and make it more lovable." Do you want to do anything? Or shall we just lay here, or go early?" Looking back over her shoulder at the man Beatrice wouldn't mind doing either, although leaving early was her last choice. "Do you want a blowjob?" Biting her bottom lip she smiled. "After all, you are very selfless last time, a very good member of the Abnegation faction when you were going down on me." She grinned, not believing she was talking dirty. It always felt weird, making her mouth sour, but in a nice way." Do you want me to be selfless towards you?" Of course, Bryce yearned for more than just an hour alone with his Beatrice. The restrictions that Abnegation had on relationships before sixteen years old were absurd. He wished to hold her hand at school and as they walk around the city. He wanted to be able to freely kiss her goodbye before and after each class and do the same whenever they had to leave after feeding the factionless. With them having such limited time, though, he valued it even more. Obviously, he wouldn't want to leave now as he wanted to take full advantage of the hour they had. At her next question, he smirked slightly and glanced into her eyes. "I would love for you to be selfless to me, Beatrice." He murmured softly, still playing with her hair. He thought about last time, going down on her and making her feel amazing. Furthermore, he saw her at school the next day and she seemed so happy. They were just starting to explore sexual things. Of course, that would be something that Abnegation frowned upon too, but they were in love and then there was the natural sex drive and the need to make each other theirs forever." Actually... I think there is something else we can do." He offered with a little smirk. "I want to try something with you, my love. I would like to think we can do more than just the usual things... I want to spice things up a bit." He told her and grinned. "I've had these fantasies about you... I might not go too in detail yet... but..." He paused, reaching over for some rope that was near the mattress. "I think something selfless you could do is let me tie your hands behind your back while you give me head." He offered with a little smile. "Like we said last time, we want to explore, right? I want to explore this with you." Being selfless had its benefits for each other certainly, so when he decided to ask her about exploring something new, she agreed. After all, it was what he wanted so Beatrice happily obliged. "Sure, anything" she smiled. "Let me take your pants off first otherwise I won't be able to get them down otherwise" a chuckle left her lips, as her delicate hands pulled his clothing down to his ankles, leaving him naked from the waist down. His cock was limp at the moment, not that it bothered her too much. It would get hard soon enough. Turning her back to him, she put her hands behind her back just above her ass, which was hidden in the baggy gray clothing. The old rope which had been laying in the shack for a long time, even before they found it, was tightly fixed around her wrists meaning she could no longer use her hands to get him up. Turning around and falling to her knees as Bryce sat on the edge of the bed, Beatrice laughed as she soon figured this would be harder than she thought. "How am I meant to get you up" she smiled, leaning her face down to his cock, sticking her tongue out to try and get his head in to her mouth. Failed attempts caused her face to rub against him, stroking him with her cheeks and nose which ultimately did give him an erection. Beatrice then began to suck on his semi hard cock, her hair falling over her face, hiding what she was doing to him. She would have pulled it back, but her hands were tied. After her hands were tied behind her back, Bryce was biting his lip. He didn't know why but just having her hands tied behind of her back made him feel aroused. When she asked about getting him up, Bryce just smiled down at her. "I believe in you, my love." He told her and leaned down to kiss her on the lips while taking his arms and wrapping it around her body, taking her bound hands into his hands and giving her a reassuring squeeze before pulling back from the kiss and then leaning back so she could try to give him an erection. He grinned when he felt her tongue touch his cock. His Beatrice was so innocent and he loved it. She looked so adorable trying to use nothing but her mouth and face to get him hard. When she used her cheeks and nosed to get him hard, he thought it was cute and sexy at the same time, and that's why he started to finally get hard now. When she was finally able to start sucking, he let out a soft, happy little moan as he reached his hand to stroke down through her hair, giving her affectionate little touches as she sucked him. "Ah... that feels so good... you're so selfless to me baby." He whispered in pleasure, even rocking his hips back and forth against her mouth to continue to stimulate himself. Soon, his huge ten-inch cock was fully erect inside of her mouth, and he moaned again, feeling his member throbbing and pulsating as she was selfless to him. Just knowing her hands were bound behind of her back made this situation sexier and more arousing for Bryce. At this rate, it wouldn't take that much longer for him to reach his climax so he just sat back and enjoyed the feeling, still stroking one of his hands through her blonde hair, a smile on his face the whole time. Normally a hand would be at the base of his erection holding him up, but this was different and a challenge. Beatrice took it in her stride though, she walked with her knees as close as she could to the bed to get as close as she could to his cock, keeping it upright with her mouth. Moving her head back and forth, up and down his shaft she proceeded to try and get him off so he could cum. The daughter liked giving him pleasure, she liked hearing the moans from his mouth due to her own actions and hoped he was getting turned on with this new experiment they were trying with her hands tied." Ooops" she said, losing his cock, it sprung out of her mouth after she came to far up and aimed her open mouth back down on to it like a predator would its prey. Taking him in, she went balls deep, gagging on him, choking on him, making her eyes water and her body cough. Beatrice felt the love from her boyfriend as he ran his fingers through her long hair, it kept her face clear, that beautiful site of her taking him in her mouth would last long for any male who would be so lucky. Being able to see her take him just added to the effect. She was so sexy and innocent, and it made him melt. When she went balls deep sucking on him, he moaned loudly as he felt her tongue moving all over his member. Plus, she was special since she took all ten inches, and it was even better knowing that he wasn't through developing yet, so Beatrice would have even more cock to take later on in life. Finally, he moaned out his lovers name and released his cum into her mouth and throat. He laid there and allowed her to lick all of his cum off before he slowly pulled back and smiled down at her. They still had a few more minutes to spend with each other before having to leave, so he reached his hands under her and lifted her to the bed with a chuckle. He leaned down and started to kiss on her neck and then trailed kisses to her cheek. "God... I love you so much Beatrice. You're perfect, you know? That felt so amazing, and I loved having your hands tied... maybe we can do that again next time, or we can experiment a little bit more." he grinned, moving his hand through her hair once last time before kissing her nose and then her chin. Sadly, he looked down and frowned. "But I guess we have to get back home now." he sighed, untying her hands. Once they stood, he pulled her into a tight hug. "I love you." He said again. "Good luck with your Aptitude test... can we meet here again tomorrow so we can talk about what happened?" He asked and looked into her eyes, still hugging her. When he came the girl felt her mouth become wetter, soaking up his seed down her throat as well as between her teeth as she pulled away from him. Swallowing what he offered her, Beatrice then cleaned up his cock with her tongue, not leaving any trace of his sperm. Licking her lips, she laughed when he picked her up, putting her on the bed and feeling his kisses on her face. "I love you to" she gazed in to his eyes. "I'd like to try other stuff to." Her long hair was combed through by his hand and fingers one last time as night was soon approaching. "We will meet back here, after the tests. We can talk about what we are going to do." Hugging him back, they stayed like that before they really had to leave. Beatrice tied her hair back and then picked up the basket she used to hand food out." See you" she waved, closing the door, heading back to her home. Her parents were none the wiser, they wouldn't of thought she was sneaking off to suck someone, but handing food out instead. That night, Beatrice was nervous about the test, she didn't fall asleep until late. Bryce returned home to finish up a few more chores. When nightfall fell over the city of Chicago, Bryce bid his parents and sister good night before crawling into his bed. His night was no easier. Tossing and turning all night, nervous to see what the test would say. Everyone was at least a little antsy in some form, though. After a long while of just sleepless restlessness, he finally found his way into a slumber. The next morning, the sun rose over Lake Michigan, which was mostly dried up by this point. There are many people out and about early this morning, all wearing identical colors and clothes to match their factions. It was so difficult to tell the difference between anyone, honestly. Bryce rouses up to his mother after she gently shook him awake. It was a huge day for everyone, especially the sixteen-year-olds. Today, they will take the test that will determine which faction bests suits them. For his entire life, he was raised to be primed for taking a head position in the government. However, he knew where he belonged. He belonged with Beatrice. Thankful for what they had, he would refuse to let anything come between them and that was a promise. He bathed himself then shaved his face so it was smooth and clean. His father treated him to a quick trim. Bryce could barely see what it looked like, though. To avoid vanity, they weren't allowed to look into a mirror-just glance at it. His parents and sister wish him good luck and hug him goodbye before he is off to the station to take the aptitude test. Upon arriving, Bryce doesn't see Beatrice yet, but that was normal. He was always very punctual and early to anything that went on. "It is just a test, nothing more, it isn't written in stone. They just tell you what suits you. Even if it is another faction, you can still choose this one, where you belong." The mother smiled at Beatrice, rubbing her arm to comfort her. They were all seated around the table, eating breakfast, just enough to stop them going hungry of course. The rest would be given away to people who really needed it, the factionless. Leaving her home, she and her parents, along with her brother, who was also doing the test walked towards the building it was taking place. The queues were long, it was clearly an event which would take all day. Stepping on to her toes for a height advantage, Beatrice looked around for any sign of Bryce, but she couldn't see him. Thinking about the night before, she smiled to herself, it was something she enjoyed, not just giving him head, but the time together, it was more precious than anything. When they would meet tonight, she thought about just laying with him, just staring at the dirty ceiling of the shack and imaging the stars above it. Other factions moaned, however Beatrice's didn't, she stayed calm, along with her fellow members. They were of course taunted, some seeing them as weak, others asking why food was given away when it could have been given to the other factions. But none of them got angry, instead staying focused on the Aptitude test. Finally, it was her turn, she stepped in to the room, nothing but a chair and a computer inside along with a woman. "Take a seat" she said, strapping her inside, locking her arms and wrists down along with her legs. Hooking up some wires to her head, she gave the girl a drug and let the process begin. Beatrice opened her eyes and saw the room she was in was empty until she looked to her left and saw her reflection. There wasn't even a mirror insight when she entered. Unstrapping herself she got up from the chair and then looked back, only to see hundreds of forms of herself reflecting and forth. A quick touch of her shoulder made her spin around, seeing herself before a wild dog appeared threatening her. Seeing it chase after another girl, she wanted to help before she found herself back in the chair and woken up by the woman performing the test." Go out the back, tell them I sent you home, the drug made you ill." Beatrice looked confused at the woman. "No, what was my results? It is supposed to help me choose what faction?" Closing her eyes, she opened them with the realization that Beatrice wasn't going to go without an explanation. "The test didn't work on you, your Divergent, your every faction. It's very rare, but you can't tell anyone, not even your parents." A shove in the back pushed her out of the room, leaving the girl shaken up and feeling scared. She wanted to see Bryce desperately. Late afternoon, with her parents believing she was ill, Beatrice told them she needed some air, that it might make her feel better. Letting her go out, she immediately went to the shack and waited for Bryce. To be honest, Bryce was rather nervous about the entire thing. Although he knew that the result on the test didn't actually set anything in stone, his nerves were still jumbled. To calm himself, he thought about last night with Beatrice. Spending time with her, kissing her, and of course the kinky little blow job that he received. Thinking ahead, he imagined them just laying together tonight, cuddling and kissing until they have to go home. Little did he know what the test would actually reveal about him, though. The tests were run privately with one proctor in the room to inject the person with the serum. Bryce patiently waited his turn and finally, he was called into one of the rooms with brown walls. His proctor was a man from Dauntless with longer hair, tattoos all up and down his arm. He introduced himself as Joe and explained the process of what would happen. Bryce's virtual reality was different from This' though similar in some aspects. After a few challenges pass, he woke up and asked what his results were. Joe said the results are confusing and there is no clear answer which made Bryce panic. He was told that he showed an aptitude for all factions except for Amity and Candor. Joe looked worried as he explained this but used the word Divergent to describe it. Even though Bryce didn't have the slightest clue of what all of this meant, he was just told to keep this a secret from everyone, and he was allowed to leave early due to 'being sick from the serum'. Bryce didn't go straight home. Instead, he went right for the shack. It was the one place where he felt calm and at ease. It was his and Beatrice's getaway from the world, where they could be themselves and show their love for one another. He had already been there an hour, maybe even more when he heard the door creak open. He was just sitting in the old broken down chair in the corner. When Beatrice entered and the door was closed, he stood to his feet and sighed. He knew what they would be talking about was the tests, so he started to speak. "Something went wrong with my tests..." He murmured and shook his head. "My proctor said that the results were confusing, and they didn't give a real answer... he said something about Divergence and told me to leave early and say that I got sick." He rambled on and took a deep breath before stopping to watch her. Of course, Bryce knew that he was supposed to keep this a secret, but he never could keep something away from his love, his world. She would be the only person he would tell, however. He didn't trust anyone else enough to tell her such sensitive information. He never kept anything from her and was not about to start doing that now. To none of his knowledge, she had gotten the same results too, but he didn't expect it at all. "I don't know what that means." he frowned and took a seat on the chair, rubbing his head. "I just want to get the Choosing Ceremony over with tomorrow and get on with our lives." he said after glancing back up into her eyes." How did your tests go?" When she opened the door to the shack, she saw Bryce already there, which surprised her a little bit. There wasn't much of a greeting from him, and she couldn't give one herself as he spoke of the test straight away. Beatrice had been feeling pretty low given her own test, she had pondered whether she would tell Bryce or not seeing as the woman told her not to tell anyone, not even her parents. So when he mentioned something was wrong, a sly smile came over her. She quickly disguised it the best she could, covering her mouth with her sleeve covered hand. The face he told her he was a Divergent to made her feel more safe than anything else. "My test?" She said, looking at him in his seat. "Umm. I got the same, results were inconclusive. They told me to go home sick as well." Beatrice wasn't sure if he would believe her, he may have thought she was only saying it to be helpful to him." They also said not to tell anyone, not even my parents can know. I was so scared then I was pushed out of the back door like I was some freak." Walking over to him, she knelt down in front of the chair and took his hands. "Whatever it is, it is our secret, we can deal with it together. We are both Divergent. I don't know what it means either, but it's ours." Beatrice was unhappy not long ago and now she was feeling much better. So much so that she stood up and too her hairband out, which only meant one thing. They were going to have fun." I want you to be my first" she smiled. Leaning down and kissing his lips, inserting her tongue. Pulling away, she took off her gray robes, leaving herself completely naked after her underwear was taken off. Beatrice's breasts were medium, perfectly round and below was a light brown bush of hair covering her pussy. Although it was trimmed given her boyfriend would sometimes eat her out." Tris wants you" she said, using the nickname he would call her by. Bryce believed Beatrice wholeheartedly when she said her tests were the same. He trusted her and would never think of her lying to him. "I know. They told me not to tell anyone too, but I could never keep something from you." When she sat in front of him, he held her hands and nodded. "Right. Our secret. " He repeated with a smile. When he saw the hair come down he knew what that meant. It wasn't long, and he had seen her strip nude down in front of him. He liked the nickname for her and nodded. "This." He added and leaned up to kiss her abdomen. His girlfriend was so incredibly sexy, and he was glad they could share their first time together. Standing up, he pulled off his own gray clothing and was soon nude. He stood tall above her and gently pushed her down to lay on the mattress. He lay on top of her and smiled, looking into her eyes. Since this was their first time, he didn't worry about adding any bondage at the moment. That would come later, and he was excited, but for their first time, he just lay on top of her. His lips found her neck, kissing all around her skin. He was wearing her favorite cologne so he figured it would be a nice smell for her. A moan left his lips as he felt an electric pulse shoot up his body. It was unlike anything he ever felt before. She felt so smooth and perfect under his hands as they rested down on her firm ass. He squeezed it and let go before allowing his hands to roam all over her back and then finally to grab her breasts. "Your body is mine, This. I'm about to make you feel owned." He cooed into her ear with a smile, connecting their lips again against each other. Slowly, Bryce slipped his large cock inside of This' virgin pussy. He was already much bigger than average and still had some growing to do. He started to roll his hips against This', hands now playing with her big tits again deepening the kiss as he tilted his head and released another moan into her mouth. It felt awesome to be taking her virginity. They loved each other, and now they had each other in very way possible. In this world they had to grow up so quickly. At only sixteen they had to choose their lives, which faction they wanted to be in and possibly never see their parents again. It was a tough reality, which always made Beatrice wonder what life was like beforehand. But with Bryce, she felt like a typical teenager who wanted to explore and learn, which included sex. When he laid her down on the bed, she smiled at him, kissing his mouth, making out with him. Feeling his skin touch hers, she loved the warmth pressed against her due to his body heat. Another thing was his hands which roamed her, feeling her bare ass cheeks, forcing his hands underneath her between the sheets to cup her cheeks. Finally, when he pushed his cock in to her vagina, she moaned, a yelp trailing off her bottom lip when he hit her hymen. Once it was broken, she closed her eyes, before opening them to gaze at Bryce. Kissing him, the girl moaned in to the make out session, a little in pain, but more in pleasure as they slowly fucked on the bed in the shack. One of her hands found his ass, repaying the compliment he gave her by squeezing it, molding it with her fingers, even digging her nails in to his flesh to inflict a little pain herself." Ugh..." she gasped, her mouth open side, feeling her pussy have an orgasm, her juices flowing down her chamber on to his cock. She seemed out of breath, even though she was laying there and he was doing all the work. "I love you" she whispered, her breath hitting his face. Bryce kissed This deeply once again after he had broken her hymen. If it weren't official already, it was official now. He had her in every way possible. No other guy had been in this position with her and no other guy ever will. He didn't care if they were just sixteen, but he truly wanted forever with Beatrice. Her hands on his ass caused him to moan back into her mouth and his hips were starting to thrust a little bit faster. "I love you too." He murmured and gently tugged on her lower lip with his teeth when he felt her orgasm soak his cock. Knowing that she came first before him and the fact that it was so quickly made Bryce smile. Since he wasn't done yet, after Beatrice's first climax, he kept thrusting down inside of her and slowly giving her each inch of his huge, thick cock. When it finally did wash over him, he pressed his lips to her once more to give her a sloppy, wet kiss on the lips. He was starting to breath heavily too so he just laid down beside of her once they were done. Now they were both a panting mess, and he moved to take one of her hands in his. "I love you." He repeated and looked at her. "That felt so amazing... we have to do that again sometime." He told her with a playful wink. Hoping that after initiation and Choosing was over, they would be allowed to touch and be with each other more freely, giving them more free time to do sexy things with each other. After he calmed down, he just wrapped his arms around her and curled up, nuzzling their cheeks together. Their kisses were more intense, they almost felt more loving after she had cum. With her legs spread wide, Beatrice felt him pick up the pace more, thrusting faster in to her pussy, before giving her a more sloppy type kiss. It was nice for him to say he loved her to, even though she knew it. Feeling his heavy breath on her skin as he was fucking her, she assumed he had cum before rolling off to the side by her. Holding his hand which he grabbed, she moved on to her side, resting on her hip, looking at him. "We can do it again, maybe we will be able to be a proper couple one day. Out in the open." She smiled, although more so through hope that their dream would come true. As they laid naked in bed, she glimpsed down at his cock which was limp. "I guess I wore him out" she bit her bottom lip, kissing her boyfriends lips once more before rolling on to her back and looking at the roof."Let's stay here, the entire night. Let's break one rule. We won't be here much longer, we may be in another faction." Beatrice said, still looking up at the ceiling. "I want to be with you, just in case, just in case we don't end up together. I know you said you would follow me anywhere, but if there is even a 1% chance you do go to another faction, I want to make sure we have a full night together." "Yeah, I would love that." Bryce answered with a tired, happy smile on his face. Nothing seemed more romantic than the idea of holding her hand in public or giving her sweet little kisses whenever he wanted. "Yeah, I think you did." He laughed and pressed a kiss to the back of her hand as he relaxed beside of her. At her next words, a little frowned tugged to his face. "Another faction?" He asked and shook his head quickly and then found himself laying on top of her body again, straddling her as he sat upright." Tris, look at me." He started, gazing deeply into those brown eyes of hers. "I love you. I love you more than anyone has ever loved anyone else or anything else. My love is never dying for you, and it will always exist strongly. Truthfully, I would choose death over not being with you. I never want to have another girl in my life because you are all I need, and you are perfect." Pausing, he took the hand he was holding and placed it over his heart. "That heart right there... that heart that is beating. The only reason it beats..." He paused and then moved their conjoined hands to her chest next. "Is because this one beats too. I wouldn't want to live without you, my love. There is a zero percent chance we will be in different faction. If you want to be brave, I will go with you. If you want to be peaceful, then so will I. If you want to be honest, then I'll follow you. If you want to be intelligent, then we will do it together. Or if you want to stay selfless then I'm not going anywhere." After his little speech, he pressed a big kiss to her lips, trying to make all the love from his heart flow to his lips and connect her to the feeling of his love. After the deep kiss was over, he -pulled back with a smile, one finger going to tangle in her long hair. "But I still want to stay with you the whole night. There's nothing more I could want than falling asleep with you by my side." As he rolled on top of her once more, straddling her, Beatrice felt him look deep in to her eyes, almost as though he gazed in to her soul. Still holding hands, she felt his chest, his heart beating, his speech was really well said, their connection couldn't of grown more she thought, but it did in them brief moments. When her chest was felt she smiled, kissing him back as he leaned down to kiss her. Laying together once more, side by side, agreeing to spend the night out together, no matter the consequences, Beatrice offered her love to him. "I love you as well, more than my parents. I want to be with you for the rest of my life, I want to experience everything with you, I want my body to be yours, your body to be mine. I want us to think about the same things, know what we are thinking without saying it. Furthermore, I think we have that." Kissing his chest, she rested her head on it as he played with her long hair. "I want the same, Beatrice Prior. I want to have you forever in my arms and never let you go no matter where our life takes us and whatever we have to do. If I can't have you with me then I don't want anyone else because you're my soul mate and my world." He spoke softly and gently, pressing a kiss to her lips when he finished. Now, he snuggled up their nude bodies, arms tightly wrapped around her body while his legs even wrapped around her too. It was incredibly comfortable and relaxing after such a stressful day, and he longed to have this feeling at the end of every single day. "Do you want to go to sleep now so we'll be ready for tomorrow or do you just want to lay here and talk for a while?" Bryce asked and tilted his head at his lover. It was getting late, and they had to be up early for the Choosing Ceremony tomorrow, and they needed rest, but Bryce didn't want to sleep yet since that meant he wouldn't be able to experience anything with her so he just lay there and snuggled close, placing affectionate kisses all up and down her neck. Kissing him back, the shack filling with the noise of their lips parting, both laid on top of the bed naked, snuggling each other, which helped keep them warm. As he planted kisses all over her, her hand was running up and down his leg, just caressing him. Her breasts were against his chest, her nose now against his. "I think we will just drift asleep" she smiled, her forehead touching his, the couple much in love. It wasn't long before Beatrice did close her eyes and fall in to a slumber in the arms of Bryce. Yawning the next morning, the woman fluttered her eyes, smiling as she felt the hands of her boyfriend still around her, they must not of moved an inch from their position. Opening her eyelids, she saw the sleeping boy and stuck her tongue out, flicking it against his nose. "Wakey" she said, her arms by her breasts, snuggled up tightly in his grasp, faces still pointing to one another." I don't want you to be late for the Choosing Ceremony" It did happen all day, so there wasn't too much of a rush. At this point, Beatrice didn't think about her family, who must have been worried. Bryce woke up to the feeling of a tongue flicking his nose and then the heavenly voice of his girlfriend following it. With a little smile on his face, he looked into her eyes. "Morning." He whispered sleepily and turned his head to yawn before rubbing the sleep from his eyes and turning his gaze back to his Beatrice. Last night was by far the best night of sleep he ever had gotten. Falling asleep with the love of his life in his arms was perfect and waking up next to her brought an immediate relaxed, happy feeling to him. He loved her so much and wanted to show her. "Yeah, I know. I really want us to walk together, hold hands. We broke the rules last night, might as well keep going today." He grinned at her, kissing her again. He just simply didn't want to let go of her for any reason. She was the best thing to ever happen to him and at this point, he didn't care what the factions said or what anyone else said. All he cared about was her and that's all that was important to him. "I love you." He murmured and pecked her lips before standing to his feet and starting to gather his dull clothing. "I love you to" she replied, standing up to, grabbing her panties, sliding them up her legs before grabbing her bra and hooking it behind her. The dull clothing was something she was used to apart from today. Looking at it differently as she pulled it over the head, she could see why the other factions laughed at them for it. Leaving the shack, walking with him, holding his hand, she stopped, pulling him to a halt. "This is probably the last time we will ever see this place." Leaving his hand, Beatrice walked towards the wooden hut like building and grabbed a stone off the floor. Around the back, near some bushes, she carved her initials in to it, 'BP' before the bush hid it. "You want to carve something?" She asked, "I just think it is nice." The girl added, holding out the stone towards him." It may be our last time here. For me? Please" she smiled. When they were leaving, Bryce felt his girlfriend tug his hand to stop. He saw what she did and smiled to himself. He took the stone from her hand and carved his initials 'B.A.' before drawing a heart in between so it read 'B.A. loves B.P.'. Furthermore, he thought it was a nice little thing to do as he sat the stone down and turned to her with a smile." Maybe we can come back here one day. This is our little special place. It always will be." He whispered, recalling the countless hours they spent kissing and cuddling and talking, always losing track of when they were supposed to leave. He kissed her on the forehead before pulling away and taking her hand in his. "Now, let's head on into town." he said softly as they made their way down through the woods. Their families would be worried, but they would catch up with them in the crowd. When they were approaching the building where it was held, Bryce didn't let go of her hand since they decided to do this. "I love you so much, This." he grinned, using her nickname once more. He really liked it. Taking his hand, she walked with him, both in their dull clothing, first walking past the homes of their faction before heading in to the town and city where all the factions would mix. Looking around, no one really cared about the couple, that was until they reached the building where everyone was lined up, ready to choose which faction they would be in. Seeing her parents, they immediately came up to her, rushing with a frantic pace. Her mother held her cheeks, kissing her tenderly whilst her father saw her holding hands with Bryce. "Where were you?" He asked, not looking best pleased, he nudged Beatrice's mother, pointing to the hand holding." I was with Bryce, we wanted to spend the night together before we chose our factions" she said honestly, hoping they wouldn't be mad. Her father seemed so, but her mother wasn't. She almost understood, knowing nothing could stop love. "You frightened us, we thought something terrible had happened." Beatrice looked around, "Where is Caleb?" He is already inside, we would have gone in with him, but you weren't here. He has probably already chosen. Furthermore, he hasn't returned, which means...." she cut off, sobbing, thinking she would never see her son again. This started to make Beatrice wonder if she should stay or not. Honestly Bryce could tell that her father was displeased, and he probably hadn't done the best job of earning his trust or love in the slightest. As much as he wanted it, he knew that it would be impossible because of the norms of their city but if only he knew just how well Bryce treated her and how much love he felt for her, then he'd understand like her mother. It saddened him to see the look on This' and This' mother's face when speaking about her brother. There wasn't any time to dwell on it because they were rushed in, and they had to go to their seats. Before he went to his mother, father, and sister, he turned to look at This and whispered something in her ear. "Just remember that no matter what you choose, I will go with you. I sear on everything I will. I love you." After saying that, he kissed her cheek and let go of her hand. Once returning to his family, he got a quiet scolding and just shrugged it off. A few more names were called, and he knew he'd be one of the last to choose since it went in ascending order of last names. Beatrice was called up almost as soon as he sat down, and he watched her intently. If she looked at him, she would see him looking at her and giving a smile. He meant what he said. The hall was ready for the next batch of young people to walk in. The place was packed as families walked their children in to their designated factions. Upon arriving at her seat, Beatrice overheard the others laughing at the clothes she and her people were wearing, as well as their values. Ignoring it like she always did, she sat down between her mother and father, holding each of their hands, letting them comfort her and maybe comfort them to, as this could have been the last time they saw their daughter." Beatrice Prior!" Said the man on the stage below, calling her name and awaiting her arrival. Standing up, the girl felt all eyes were on her, watching each step she took down to the choosing area. There were five white bowls situated in a round circle, with an entrance to them at the front. Each was filled with various objects, the sign of each faction which represented them. Looking over every single one, Beatrice hadn't given much thought about this and had to choose her life in any given second. Taking the knife in a bid to stall time, she slowly cut the side of her palm just to draw some blood. Hissing in a little pain, she watched the drop fall until it was on the edge, waiting to fall. Hovering over every bowl, she finally turned towards the black stones of Dauntless, allowing the blood to fall and sizzle on the hot rocks."DAUNTLESS!" Said the announcer, to a loud cheer from the faction who collected her, taking her in their arms and welcoming Beatrice as though she was a part of their family already. Looking over her shoulder, she could see the dismay on her parent's face, how upset they were, then she tried looking for Bryce before she was swarmed with people until she was crowded. Bryce intently watched his lovely Beatrice as she stood up. Unable to help himself, he just admired her beautiful facial features and thought about what sexiness lay underneath those clothes of hers. Curiosity was burning deep within Bryce as he was trying to think of what faction she might choose. He truly had no idea other than the three factions she told him that she had an aptitude for according to her test. He watched her take the knife and make the small incision and watched the blood dangle from her palm. Then, he saw it fall onto the hot, burning rocks of the Dauntless faction. The announcer confirmed it and the faction of Dauntless, rowdy as always, erupted into a huge cheer from hearing about their new faction member. He couldn't help but smile at seeing how welcome Beatrice was looking already, but then he saw her parent's face too and then thought about his own parents' face. How upset would they be? Their son, they pride and joy going to another faction? Well, Bryce already had it decided. He told Beatrice that he was going to be with her and here he was basically making a choice between her or his parents. In fact, he loved her more and couldn't bare the thought of leaving her. Beatrice's last name began with the letter "P" while Bryce's last name began with the latter "A". It would be a very, very long wait now before he had his chance to choose. In fact, he was one of the last five children that were going to choose today. An hour and a half later after Beatrice had made her decision, it was now Bryce's turn." Bryce Adams!" The announcer beamed as the very tall, handsome man stood from between his parents. He gave them both a quick smile and ruffled his older's sister hair playfully before heading down the aisle. Truly, he was a man on a mission. Stepping up the few steps to the stage, he took the knife, made the incision and walked over to the burning rocks of Dauntless and made the drop of blood splatter on the sizzling rocks."DAUNTLESS!" More cheers erupted, and he was now over his way to his new faction. It was easily the quickest choice that someone transferring factions had made so far. With the rules and laws of the world they live in, this should speak loud words to Beatrice as he chose the rest of his life to spend with her, basically. He wasn't going to stay away from her, and he loved her more than anything. If the wait until her turn was long, it was nothing, nothing compared to that for Bryce, sitting in her new faction, she wanted to know what he would choose, because the way she felt now, about abandoning her parents made her feel upset. As much as she liked the idea of being in Dauntless, it was a new territory, she hadn't even done research in to it. Beatrice knew nothing about it. Finally, when her boyfriend was called, the girl sat up in her seat, arms resting on her lap, the long sleeves covering her hands. Seeing him up on the stage she smiled to herself, she felt so lucky being with him, he was so handsome. Beatrice had thought about hers, well she took her time, but for him, it was straight forward, it was the quickest one of the day. Jumping with shock, the whole Dauntless section rose up to their feet and swarmed him, welcoming him like they did This. Someone moved to the back, allowing Bryce to sit next to Beatrice, she took his hand when he did. Smiling with him, she then got up, the ceremony was over, and things were about to change in her life. Honestly, Bryce truly loved the warm welcoming he received by the fellow Dauntless members. However, there was only one of them he truly wanted to see now, but she was all lost in the massive amount of people. Finally, his piercing and rushing eyes searched over a now empty seat beside a particular blonde girl. Taking the seat with pride and joy, he squeezed her hand in return. Once the ceremony was over, he stood up with her as everyone applauded one another. Suddenly, Bryce turned to This and placed his hands on the back of her thighs, lifting her up in the air so she was on eye level with him before pressing a deep and passionate kiss to her lips. No longer did they have to deal with this nonsense of no public affection or hiding their love. They could freely touch and kiss as they pleased because they were Dauntless now. Pulling back a huge smile was on the boy's face. His breath was hot and heavy, but the love never shone brighter in his blue eyes. "We did it... I told you I would choose to go with you. I love you." He whispered and finally sat her back down on the ground. Truly, he hoped Beatrice never doubted that he would come with her to Dauntless but seeing how fast he made the decision, no hesitation was ever in his mind." I'm so happy right now with you... this is a new chapter to our life. More love and more happiness, and we can be together forever." Bryce spoke with a cheeky grin, raking his fingers through her hair. She smiled, kissing him back, his fingers running through her hair causing it to fall down her shoulders and down her back, just like all the other Dauntless women. Heading out of the ceremony, her hand holding on to Bryce's, Beatrice looked on to the other members of her new faction who seemed really pumped up and excited. They started to run, they were going to be left behind which made the girl start to jog before going into a full burst run. Her head tilted, looking upwards towards the sky because they were now climbing the structure which held the tracks of the train above the city. Each of her hands got some grip and moved upwards, her feet finding places to climb, and so she got higher up, following each of the Dauntless members. Looking down, she was urging Bryce on. "Come on!" She smiled, nearing the top. Pushing herself up, she looked across to see everyone running along the track. "Hurry!" Beatrice said, taking her boyfriend's hand, helping him up. "Where are they going?" Running after them once more, a noise could be heard from behind, looking around, the train was heading straight for them, everyone stood still, waiting for it to come by. Bryce walked out of the ceremony just as happy as he could possibly be. Their hands were tightly in each other's and once all his fellow faction members began to run, Bryce and his girlfriend followed suite. They arrived to a structure that held the railroad tracks and Bryce couldn't help but chuckle softly at what they were doing. Scurrying up the side, he felt his heart pumping and a rush of adrenaline shoot through his body. It seemed their decision was a very good decision indeed. "I don't know... I think we have to jump in the train, though!" Bryce yelled out over the wind as it howled and made it difficult to hear. Suddenly, a horn was heard as the train was closing in towards them. They were now running again, and his eyes stayed on the Dauntless-born members that seemed to understand what they are doing. When a certain car was passing them, he watched the boys and girls dressed in all black jump into the train car one by one, and it was clear what they had to do. Bryce wasn't nervous though, he was very excited. Taking Beatrice by the hand, he kept running with her until the car got to them, and he counted to three out loud and jumped with her into the car. They landed, and he did a quick little barrel roll to the back of the car and laughed when it was over. Now, he crawled over beside Beatrice and took a seat against the side of the train as they enjoyed the ride down the tracks. "Wasn't that fun?" He beamed and took her soft hand in his larger hand. All the initiates were beginning to hop on board the train and the car was quickly filling up. Running with her boyfriend she felt him pull on her hand as he jumped up, pushing her up with him until they both landed on the train. Beatrice was huffing and puffing, catching her breath, she had never run so fast or for so long, but she enjoyed it. Taking a seat against the wall, she couldn't believe the sight of people jumping in to the compartment they were in. The new recruits bundled in one after the other, the Dauntless born members laughing as some struggled, although they helped them up." This is probably the most fun I have had in one moment than all my time with our faction" Beatrice told Bryce, squeezing his hand, holding it tightly. She looked around, always wondering what the insides of these trains looked like when they passed over the many factions. They weren't very clean or well maintained. Half ripped posters and scratches filled the walls along with a massive D symbol painted in a circle. The noise was loud, which was why someone was shouting to the new members. "Everyone up! Get ready!" The whole cart stood up, Beatrice followed their lead and did the same, standing against the opposite wall. Then out of nowhere, the man ran out with a jump, some of the people inside screamed, others thought it was cool." If you don't make this jump you are going to be factionless" said another, running and making the jump. This prompted the girl to do her boyfriend the same favor he did her, by running out and dragging him with her. Nearing the entrance, she saw the gap was larger than she thought, then she flew through the air, the wind hitting against her, brushing through her hair, forcing the tie out and letting her locks run free. "You are not kidding, Beatrice." Bryce mused loudly as the wind violently whipped and howled into the train car. The intense adrenaline rush felt by Bryce was uncanny when compared to any previous experience in the Abnegation faction. That feeling was definitely something the boy could get used to being exposed to each and every day. Not much was known about initiation for Dauntless, nor any faction in fact, but everyone should have understood it wouldn't be easy in the slightest. Climbing the train tracks and then jumping into a moving train. What was next? Jumpingoutof the train? This thought made Bryce chuckle, only for a brief moment though as his comical thought was proven to be true. Two of the boys had already jumped onto a nearby building and landed on the roof." I'd rather be factionless than dead." Another candidate mused before slumping down against the back of the train car and just sitting against the cold, metal wall of the train. Bryce hardly had time to process things before feeling a tug on his hand as he watched blonde locks flail wildly in front of him. Landing with a thud, he groaned and did a similar roll as when he landed in the train. Landing on the gravel really dug into any exposed skin he had and while it didn't feel to great, at least he was alive and so was Beatrice. The dark-haired boy couldn't help but feel a bit antsy when worrying about his fellow initiates when they jumped. Himself and his girlfriend were a couple of the first five candidates to make the jump. Not everyone was so lucky though as a total of three initiates: two boys and one girl, had fallen to their presumable death. If it was survived, they had to be superhuman. A boy from Candor named Peter made a negatively impressionable mark with Bryce once everyone was settled. Crude comments towards a few individuals and hearing him murmur something about the "stiffs" caused an instant dislike for the boy. Not every Candor transfer seemed to be as much of a jerk as Peter though. A girl from Candor named Christina was speaking briefly to Bryce and his girlfriend and seemed friendly enough. Up next was the third initiation challenge. Conceivably, this challenge was the most daunting task the newcomers would be forced to take on so far. All they had to do was jump from the roof into a colossal hole in the ground. Simple sounding, but very dangerous and risky. What if there was nothing to catch them at the bottom except for the hard, unforgivable earth? Bryce's mind was calculating these things at a mile a minute. On one hand, at the end of the jump could be death. However, on the other hand, being Dauntless meant being brave and being a chance taker. This is something that needed to be done. While all the others stared in shock and fear, Bryce kept his hand firmly tangled with Beatrice's hand prior to stepping up on the ledge, pulling her with him. So far, they did everything together and this would be no different. They would be Dauntless together: both literally and figuratively. Taking a deep breath, he jumped and pulled Beatrice down with him. The longer they fell, the darker it became until a few dim lights were brightening the underground compound. An audible chuckle left his lips as the pair fell at what he saw. This comical sight happened to be a net. They were safe. Standing by the net to help them down was a very important man in Dauntless named Four. A look of shock was plastered on his face at seeing two jumpers at one time. It also didn't help the fact they were from Abnegation. Regardless, he didn't question it and asked their names. "My name is Bryce." The dark-haired boy spoke before turning to his blonde girlfriend and waiting for her to speak her name. Hearing screams, Beatrice turned around, her sight couldn't register the sound she was hearing. People were hitting the roof but none of them were screaming. Instead, she figured it most of been someone falling. The noise continued for one or two more seconds before it stopped suddenly. A dark feeling fell over the girl now, did she make the right choice? How could a faction simply lose someone before they had even technically joined?" Stiffs" said a boy, before a girl came up to her and Bryce, telling her to ignore him. "That's Peter, I'm Christina, don't worry about him, his bark is worse than his bite" she went on, before someone at Dauntless then spoke." Listen up! Stop the talking!" He commanded. "You jump from the ledge, you are in. You don't? You might as well jump from the other side where some of the others didn't make it, rather that than be factionless." It was pretty blunt and simple. Everyone looked over to see what they would be jumping in to, it seemed like a hole in the ground. Whilst people took a step back to consider it, Beatrice found herself on the ledge with Bryce. "WWW we have a couple here folks. Let me just say you will get each other killed. That is what love does to you."" Aggggghh!" She screamed, her stomach turning midair as she was pulled, her hair flying once more until the net saved her. Laughing and cheering, that could only serve to help the remainder of the members up on the roof still. Getting off the net, the girlfriend saw Bryce with a man, who asked his name. When he asked her for her name, Beatrice was about to give her birth name, before stopping. "This. I'm called This" Turning to Bryce, she smiled, she hoped he liked that she wanted her name to be the one he called her by. There little moment was ruined though by the sound of a man screaming in utter fear. Peter looked sick as he landed on the net, his face pale and eyes watering. That brought a chuckle from the girl, but not Four. Simply, Bryce just ignored the comment about love getting people killed. That had to be the most absurd thing he ever heard in his life and as far as he was concerned, that person was probably just jealous they didn't have anyone to love. When he heard This say her name, it brought a smile to his face as he took her hand again and stepped to the side. Even he laughed quietly at Peter's jump. It fit him well after what a jerk he had been. As everyone else were jumping down, he leaned to press a soft kiss to This' cheek. "I love you." He whispered into her ear, squeezing her hand gently again because he was just so happy to share this with her. The Dauntless headquarters was underground and there were ten new transfers. Four led the transfers to their room. There were bunk beds that they would sleep in, so Bryce made sure he and This got one together, obviously. There was no privacy allowed it seemed as everything was in the open, even the showers and bathroom. He chose the bunk all the way against the wall and sat down with her on the bottom bunk. When Bryce counted, he saw five candor transfers, three Erudite transfers and then two from Abnegation. Next, Four led them to what was called the Pit. It was massive and had a chasm with running water that looked very deadly if someone had crazy thoughts. After they explored around for a bit, they were to return to their bunking rooms and get changed into the proper Dauntless attire: all black clothing, and then head to the cafeteria. It felt so nice to openly hold This' hand. Sure, there were some looks they got, but he didn't mind, and he hoped This didn't mind. Once back in the room, he grabbed the clothes from the top bunk and started to change. It was black pants, black t-shirt, and black boots. He quickly made the change and saw This in the exact same clothing. That was all Dauntless wore. They still had a few minutes, so Bryce kissed her lips softly, raking IHS fingers through her hair." What do you think so far, This?" He whispered softly, not breaking eye contact with the love of his life. "I love you to" she said, holding his hand, walking with him on the tour. It was around half an hour before it was over and This couldn't believe how different it was to Abnegation. She thought about the other factions, wondering what they were like. Once they had finished the tour, they arrived back in the room, specially made for the new members." By the way, I got the top bunk" she bit her bottom lip, putting her clothes on it as she cheekily claimed the better bed. Being female, her clothes could have been different, a dress or maybe tights, but she opted for the black tank top and black pants, which were considerably tighter than what she was used to because she grew up in baggy clothing. It made her ass stick out, not that she ever noticed she had one. It was round and firm, and it certainly would have made Bryce like it. The same was with the tank top, tight, showing off a flat stomach and her breasts. Tying her hair back, she was going to but it in to a bun like before, but instead changed her mind, making a long ponytail and tied a hairband in it." I like it here" her voice seeming happy, kissing him, letting his shoulders rest against the top bunk as she stood in front of him, making out, loving his fingers running through the hair." Umm...you two aren't going to be fucking with us all asleep around here are you?" Said a new recruit, making This laugh, but also relax, there was no judgement, although she did wonder where they were going to have sex or how. Everyone moved towards the canteen, they lined up in a queue along with the current Dauntless and waited to be served. The food seemed different, more...luxurious instead of the simple things like bread she was used to living on. This slab of meat ended up on her tray making her seem rather shocked. "Never seen meat before?" Christine asked, staring at This. Taking a seat at a table, it was at the center of the room, it allowed everyone to check out the new group, eyeing them up, seeing what it was about. Some even took bets and wagers on who would last the longest. Saving a seat for Bryce she smiled when he joined her, although they were briefly interrupted by a man. He was skinny, wore the same colors as them and had tattoos all over his body. "AGH the love birds, don't look shocked, gossip spreads" his hands waved apart. "Come down to my workshop, get some ink on that canvas of yours, maybe something matching for the pair of you?" "Yeah, I like it here, too." Bryce answered cheerily as he eagerly returned the kiss to her lips. When he heard the comment about fucking all the time, he winked down at This. "I don't know... I'm thinking we are." he whispered and gently pressed a kiss down to her neck softly. Of course, he took quick notice of how perfect her ass looked against the pants, and he couldn't help but take a quick grab of it while admiring those nice breasts of hers. He followed her into the cafeteria and the food was very different. The thing they ate was called a hamburger. It was amazing in Bryce's opinion, and he definitely wanted to eat another one. He was sitting down beside of This when the man spoke to them about getting some tattoos. Bryce loved that idea, getting some matching ink for himself and for This. "Alright, let's do it babe. We don't have anything else to do today rather than explore so why not?" He chuckled, taking her hand and leading her down with him towards the man workshop." Now, let me give you guys a little secret. If you need to sneak away for fun time, this is the best place." He told them with a smirk, looking into a door on the way. "It used to be a special bedding area for some instructors, but that was moved up a floor. There's still a bed and some chairs in there to use." He told them with a chuckled and led them on down. Bryce made sure to take note of the location because he had the feeling that their sexual activity would increase now they didn't have to hold back. As of now, they were in his workshop and Bryce was looking around in the shop." What are you thinking about getting, This? I am thinking maybe we get something on our collarbones? Or maybe on our backs? I don't know. I never really thought of getting one before." he admitted and chuckled, flipping through some designs that were set up for any customers in the shop. Walking behind the man who gave them some tips and tricks about the place, This even caught site of the door which was now some place to have fun, seeing a couple go inside and hearing the lock twist behind it. She didn't really like it, if they used it, it wouldn't be 'theirs' like the shack in the woods was. Entering his shop, music played in the background. It was quite annoying, but she blocked it out looking at the tattoos she could get in the book with designs. Seeing the ravens, she liked what they could represent. "Can I have these? Kinda be like every one of my family I left behind" she mentioned. It was tough for her not to see them again, yet it must have been equally bad for Bryce to. "What about you? You can get something for your family, then we can get something for each other?" A woman passed them by, This recognized her immediately, she was the one who told her she was Divergent. For now though, she left it alone, she was always going to be there. Bryce simply nodded at This' suggestion about getting something for their family then getting one for each other. Bryce chose a simple tattoo that would show the initials of his parents and sister. Once that was chosen, the man took Bryce back for the tattoo and then the woman that introduced herself as Tori came to get This. Bryce didn't know it at the time, but Tori was the woman that did This' aptitude test. Bryce's tattoo went easily on his skin. It hurt a bit, but he had a high pain threshold anyway, so a tattoo really wouldn't hurt him. After it was over, he walked back out to check the mirror to see how it looked. Then he walked to the front to meet up with This so they could look through the book or just think about what kind of tattoo they should get together. As the couple stood on the floor, Bryce slipped an arm around her waist to hold her close. "What do you think we should get for each other?" He asked softly and tilted his head at the girl, slowly moving his hand up and down the side of her body. He thought about it for a moment then finally spoke up. "What about something like an infinity sign with our initials inside." Bryce finally suggested, wanting to see what she thought about it or what kind of idea she might have had. He was so excited to do this. He wanted This to look at his body and see something about her there because he truly loved her with all his heart. Tori took This, although she seemed hesitant to do so, but the young girl never made mention of her test, in fact she never spoke at all. The only thing that came out of her mouth was small gasps as the tattoo was placed on her upper chest on the left-hand side. A flock of ravens, one each for her parents and brother. She really did miss them. Once it was done, and it was wrapped by the tattoo artist, This left her work station and stood up, meeting up with Bryce as they decided on another tattoo. "I like that idea" she spoke, regarding his idea. It wasn't long before This was back on the bench. She kept her placement of the tattoo private, wanting it to be a surprise for her boyfriend. After another session of gasps, it was finally done, and it was complete. Stepping out in her tights pants and top, there was no sign of it, meaning it was somewhere under her clothes." You will have to find it won't you" This saw his eyes scanning her body for it. Bryce decided to get the tattoo on his upper arm where This could see it, even when they weren't nude. As the man inked up the tattoo on his arm, he asked questions about Bryce and This, how they met, how long they were together, and just getting to know them. Bryce spoke about how they had to hide their love for so long. The man was happy to hear such a nice story, and he was sure they'd fit in well with Dauntless. Bryce was finished quickly with little pain from the inking. His pain threshold was high, and the arm was not a real tender spot for tattoos. When This appeared and told him that he would have to find it, a grin spread on his lips and he had a few ideas on where to look. He thanked the tattoo artists for their work and their time, then took This' hand in his. "Okay, let's head back." He whispered to her, leading her away from the workshop. He thought about earlier, when she didn't want to use that spot the tattoo artist showed them. It wasn't theirs like the cabin was, they needed some place like that. So he leaned down into her hair and ear, kissing her and speaking. "Let's take a look around... we might not have our cabin here, but we need some place for us." Plus, they should celebrate even making it this far through all the action packed jumps. Bryce was more than eager to let This know how much he loved her, and he was very, very curious about learning the location of her tattoo. Leaving the tattoo place, the pair walked out having the day to explore and get used to their surroundings. Training wouldn't begin until tomorrow so they had plenty of time as it was afternoon. Feeling his whisper and kiss on her ear made her smile, his hot breath blowing on her made it feel a little ticklish. Holding his hand, she soon walked with him through corridors and different areas of the faction. Some of the walls were made of stone it seemed carved out in to caves whilst others were made from steel works and looked like any other room she had been in." I heard there was a place outside now that I think about it. It was an old bunker that people would go in when bombs were raining down on them. Do you want to check it out?" This asked. "I know you really want to know where my tattoo is" she teased. "Maybe I didn't even get it in the first place" sticking her tongue out she pulled on his hand playing with him. Bryce just kept quiet and let This start talking to him. When she was done, he couldn't help but laugh and give her a shake of his head. "Oh, I bet you did get the tattoo, my love. And I'm going to find it. Maybe I'll have to punish you too for being such a bad girl and making me wait and search for the tattoo myself." He teased her playfully, leading her further down the corridors. On the wall, he found some directions that led to said bunker. When they arrived, they opened the door and slipped inside. The room was rather dark, but it allowed some sunlight in through a few cracks in the roof. Once they arrived, he didn't waste any time. Within moment, he had gripped her shirt and worked it off of her head. Subsequently, he pressed a kiss to her lips, making out with her while removing her pants. After she was only in her underwear, he stepped back to examine her sexy body, searching for the location of the tattoo that he had gotten for him. When the bunker was opened, it was pretty dirty, years of dust forming which must have seeped in through the fine cracks of light from above. Old antiques were everywhere, This wasn't sure if they had any value, but she didn't care much. The place was packed with paintings and pottery, some were spread all over the half broken bunk meaning the bed was broke and a pipe which would have let the owner breath in non-toxic air was rotting away near the cracks above. Before she could take in any more of the dimly lit room This was pressed up against a wall, her top pulled over her head, exposing her bra before a kiss was planted on her lips. Her arm held the back of his neck as she made out with her boyfriend. Feeling his fingers in her pants, they were pulled down her slim thighs before she was just in her panties and bra. When he stepped back, he would have seen the tattoo on the inside of her thigh. "Do you like it there?" She asked, the pause almost frightening her like it was a mistake and he didn't like it. "Do I like your tattoo?" Bryce purred in a sensual tone, his eyes locked onto her thigh where the tattoo was located. Then, giving her a nod along with a flirty wink, he spoke up again. "I love it, This. Now, I can always be between your legs. Whenever you see the tattoo, I want you to think of my cock inside of you baby. I want to think of our moans together as we make love." The distance between them was quickly closed, and his right hand went to rest on her thigh over the tattoo while the other hand rested on the opposite side of her waist, pressing her against the wall again. At the position where her head was, the most light was shining in from the cracks. It illuminated her hair like she was some magical goddess. To him, she was. They all knew initiation would be rough, that was a given. But even though they were in this little, musky room with dust floating in the air, all he could think about was her and how good they have life now. With those loving thoughts in his mind, Bryce tilted his head, letting their lips meet together. The kiss started off slow and sensual, his hand squeezing her thigh and the other her waist. His tongue poked and prodded her lips for entrance, keeping his body firmly against hers, sandwiching her in between himself and the cool wall. His eyes closed, and he lets himself get lost in the kiss. Bryce wasn't sure what this would lead to them doing, but he had a strange feeling he wouldn't be in these black Dauntless clothes for too much longer. Trailing his hand on her waist up further, it crossed to her abdomen and up her chest, caressing her neck finally while he deepened the kiss, fighting with her tongue against his own, peering back down at her to look at her beautiful face. When he said he loved it, she smiled, relieved and happy. The smile soon turned to a confused frown as he told her to think of his cock between her legs every time she looked at it. "Don't talk to me like that" she slapped his chest playfully when he neared her. Her smile was taken away by his lips pressed against her own, and they made out for a long time after that. This' hands roamed his body, one moved up his shoulder then around his neck, pulling the kiss in deeper. The other, was down by his waist, tucking under his shirt to feel his body and the muscles that were slowly growing bigger as he developed in to a fully grown adult male." I want to do something we haven't done yet" she said, her breathing hard as the kiss broke, taking in as much air as she could. "Do you want to fuck my ass?" This offered, her forehead leaning against his while catching her breath. Kissing him once more, the two young lovers probably offered the bunker some entertainment which it hadn't seen in a long time." I love you, I want you to have every part of me, if you want it of course. Unless you have something else you want to do." The feeling of her hand touching his muscles felt like heaven. Deciding to help This out, Bryce brought his large hands to pull his black shirt off his head. Now shirtless, Bryce continued with kissing the blonde beauty. After her offering of her ass, Bryce grinned widely. "I thought you'd never ask me baby. I want to have your body in every way possible. You have such a nice ass, and it's something I fantasized about, I just didn't want to freak you out by asking." He admitted with a soft little chuckle. He undid the belt buckle and then removed it form the belt loops and tossed it to the side. His pants were slid off quickly, now only leaving him clad in his dark blue boxers." Of course, I want to try this with you. I think you should get on your hands and knees now and get ready for me." He whispered into her ear while working to unstrap her bra and toss it away. No need for that anymore. Anal sex just seemed to taboo to Bryce. That untouchable vibe of how anal sex wasn't something common made it even hotter for Bryce to imagine. While waiting for the girl to assume the position wherever she wanted, he slipped of his boxers, obviously with eagerness and lust along with love and desire. She liked that he wanted it, to experience something new with her. "I don't want you to ever be scared of asking me anything, I trust you" her hot breath blew on to his face as they were close and made out again. Hearing his belt buckle, she knew it was time and that they were close to having sex. It felt a very long time since they last did it. Feeling his whisper vibrate against her ear, This, then noticed her bra straps coming undone before her milky white perfect breasts hung naturally from her chest. The floor below looked a little dirty to be on her hands and knees which made her initially reject the idea but seeing a blanket the girl went over to get it. Throwing it out, holding two corners she dusted it off and plaid it on the floor. Getting on her hands and knees, her long ponytail rested on her bare back whilst her pantie covered ass wiggled at him. "I'm waaaaaiting" she laughed, sticking her tongue out. Bryce nodded when This told him to not be scared to ask her anything. It was good advice to be honest. All he ever wanted to do was make This happy and make her smile. That's why he wasn't always offering the kinky ideas he had. The fear that she might be freaked out or scared away from him bothered Bryce. However, he understood what kind of trust and love they had, and it never hurt to experiment or try new things. Besides, who wants to have vanilla sex all the time? Not him. Watching as his girlfriend's beautiful ass swayed, Bryce was paying close attention to it. The pants seemed to cover it way too much. The boy had quite a feeling in his body, looking very much forward to taking This' ass with his cock. Just the sight of her being nude was starting to arouse him, and then she got down onto her hands and knees. Smirking down at her slightly, his hands quickly worked to remove the remainder of his clothing. Now all that was left was This' panties. They had to be moved. Reaching down, he took her panties and pulled them off and dropped to his knees behind of her. Licking his lips, he raised his hand while giving her a quick slap on the ass. "Mmm... I can't wait for this." He told her, moving his hands up and down her back, just giving her more of his gentle touches as he took the time to admire her perfect ass. Still waiting on her hands and knees, she watched him over her shoulder removing the rest of his clothing, getting naked with her. She wasn't naked fully though, her ass was covered by her skin tight panties, and it wasn't long before they were starting to be removed. Feeling his fingers tuck inside them, they were slowly pulled down over her round cheeks, giving off the smooth edges of her skin. Then her pussy which he had already fucked came in to view between her legs before the underwear was removed from her all together." Ugh!" This yelped, the slap stinging a little bit as her flesh rippled. She knew he had some type of kinky side which was confirmed when he tied her wrists together when she gave him head a couple of days ago. Being the loving person he was though, she also knew she didn't have to ask him to be gentle at first as he worked himself in to her. Feeling his hands roam up and down her smooth back, This took out the hairband which held her ponytail and let her hair fall freely over her right shoulder near her breast. "Okay, get ready baby." Bryce whispered to This before taking his hands and spreading out her ass cheeks. It was time to take the plunge, but he knew that he had to be careful and gentle with her. He didn't want to hurt her to the point where it wasn't pleasurable for her. He also knew that if he went too easy or too gentle, she could tell him and things would be solved. "I love you This, so much. You're my dirty little whore. I love to fuck you baby." After telling her this, he leaned down to kiss on her neck before slowly slipping his huge, erect length inside of her tight asshole, very carefully at first while his hands went to grab her cheeks and give them a hard squeeze when his hips began rolling against her. At the first time entering her ass, Bryce knew this was going to be amazing sex. Oh, she was just so tight, and it felt so good to make her hole be expanded to fit his size. Nothing could say that he owned her better than taking her ass and just fucking her hard. Tilting his head back, he moaned and slowly began to pick up the pace, letting his cock just get pushed further and further inside of her, feeling himself begin to throb after a few minutes of thrusting." Tell me love... how does it feel?" He wondered, looking down at her, hoping she was having fun with this too. Still resting on her hands and knees, she loved his body resting against her back as he kissed her neck. Her ass was still stinging from his slap, yet the slight pain added to the excitement for her. "Don't you forget it either" This added when he told her she was his dirty little whore. Her cute ass was spread wide, her cheeks pulled and squeezed, so her hole was visible. It was so small and tiny, closed up and looked impossible to penetrate. Feeling his head start to poke and prod at it, This didn't think anal was going to happen. But once he was a bit more daring and forceful, her hole opened up and stretched around his tip. As Bryce pushed forward, This moaned in yelps, short bursts of giggling and anticipation. Instead of resting on her hands, she lowered her upper body on to her elbows and stay hesitant as he pushed further inside her virgin hole. The girl was waiting for another ounce of pain to fall her way and when it came she moaned and put her hand on to Bryce's thigh." It feels weird...nicely...AGH...." she grunted. Taking deep breaths, she steadied herself with his thrusts unaware if he had managed to get balls deep. Feeling like she could handle it, This lifted herself back on to her hands and was back on all fours. Bryce definitely wouldn't forget that This was his dirty whore. He loved that his girlfriend could be so dirty with him. From what he understood, other guys had to get permission from their girl to touch them sometimes, but this wasn't a case. It wouldn't be anything for This to lay her head in his lap and him play with her hair for a while, then start playing with her breasts. It was like second nature." I'm glad you're enjoying it..." Bryce whispered as he found her grunts and yelps to be so sexy. There was just something so incredible about seeing This' cute, perky ass all stuck up in the air while his member slid in and out of her hole, slowly opening her up to fit him. Honestly, he wished they had done this before because right now, he was loving this. Again, he gave her ass a smack with his hand. This smack was more playful than painful, and he slowly inserted more and more of his cock into her ass until he was balls deep. The pace at which he thrust and rolled his hips remained constant and steady. While it was slow, it was fun nonetheless, and he could feel himself building his climax though he wanted to be rougher with her." Do you like this pace? Do you want me to be rougher?" He asked and moaned quietly, not wanting to hurt This to the point where it wouldn't be pleasureful. He was sure the more they did anal, though, the rougher he could be so he wasn't too worried about anything right now. As the next few minutes passed, This laughed, giggled, yelped and moaned at different times. She laughed because she couldn't believe he was in her ass and giggled because his smacks were a turn on, the light pain adding something different to the experience. The yelps grew however as he thrust steadily in to her virgin hole. It was much bigger now with his meat inside, the entrance had gradually grown to his size but deeper down it was still stinging as he pushed the boundaries. Finally, he was balls deep and This was stretched to the limit. The teen girl felt as though she couldn't move, like she was pinned down by his meat in her ass. Wiggling her ass a little bit, she moaned but got herself used to the feeling. "You can go rougher" she said, closing her eyes, bracing herself. That's exactly what Bryce wanted to hear the sexy blonde girl answer with. Rougher. He wanted to go rougher and was getting the chance now. Right after she told him to do so, he didn't waste a single second. Immediately, his hips began to slam harder inside of her. With a loud moan, have felt his large cock penetrate deeper inside of her than before. He was able to just rip her open to make her hole fit to his length. "Oh... Fuck, baby..." He groaned, arching his hips hard against her, leaning down and kissing her on the neck, taking his hand up in the AIE and smacking her ass again His cock was throbbing inside of her, and he felt really close now. His head was pulsating inside of her and once he was really into a groove with thrusting and fucking her ass, he was so close to his release. "I am going to cum inside of you baby... I'm going to cum all inside your ass." He whispered, spanking her hard again while keeping the violent pace To the best of her knowledge, she was already broken in by his cock, there was nothing left to stretch. But as soon as she gave the go ahead, and he picked up the pace with a fierce passion, This felt things grow tighter like he was managing to squeeze another inch from her. Those soft yelps of hers, which sounded pretty cute, were caused because of the slight pain he was offering. Digging her nails in to the dust covered floor, she clenched her teeth once more, riding the sensation out. "MMM fuck!" Was her only response to the moans he gave. Another spank of her ass made her bite her bottom lip. Several hand marks were resting on her cheek, the smooth and soft skin assaulted by his hand looking beat up. Not that This complained." Cum...ugh...cum for me!" This urged him on, looking over her shoulder, feeling his weight on top of her back as he rested on to her. Bryce loved those cute yelps more than anything. That was the kind of noise he could listen to all day, every day. Definitely, they would have to do anal more often. Hearing This urging him to cum was just about all he needed. The immense pleasure from the sexy feeling of being in her perfect ass along with how hot her noises were driving him insane. With a loud, incoherent moan followed by her name, he slammed in hard one final time before it happened. His cock clenched and released and flexed and released again, the feeling traveling down his member and making his spine tingle. "This!" He groaned again, feeling his cum just explode inside of her. Riding out the orgasm he moaned a bit louder, his hands gripping her ass hard until he was finished. Breathing heavily, he finally pulled out of her tight ass, the cum just dripping out of her hole and onto the floor. The sight made him smile, and he just sat down and suddenly wrapped his arms around her waist, jerking her into his lap. He chuckled lazily and in a satisfied manner before kissing her lips, making sure her ass was against his crotch. "Mmm... tell me, how was that?" He asked, pulling away from the kiss.

Choose (1x1 between celebstars and randomname98766789)|rating:3.0

Pokemon_ Releign Region

I walk towards the town the human called Ceylon, I change into a human girl, I study myself, I now have black hair with a blue streak, pale skin, blue eyes, and am I warring a black hoodie plus jeans. I smile to myself and walk into town. Easterly is sitting on for porch her vastly floating around her as she mulched down a bag of chips "gallantly" easterly looked at her Pokémon and smiled tossing him a chip "here you go buddy" vastly chops the chip with a smile as easterly laughs Sweat drips down my forehead as I finish tilling my garden. I stand up and stretch my back. I give my Bulbasaur, Start, the word to plant and seeds shoot out of his back into the garden." Good job!" I say and sit down against a tree. He looks at me happily. I look around and notice a trainer with a ghastly, I walk over and grin "H-hello t-there m-ma'am" I say as if I am new at talking. Easterly looks at the girl from her porch then looks to vastly who keeps hovering above her head "hey, not sure if anyone ever called me ma'am but it's cool, you knew around here or passing though" she got up her the step she was sitting on and walked towards her fence near where the girl stood I back up a few steps, but it's noticeable, "J-just P-passing through" I say nervously. Gastly got bit closer to the girl circling above her head "gasssstly" Easterly smiled "seems like vastly likes you enough, where are you from? Not many people pass by here since it's a small town" she held the open bag of chips out offering the girl one I take a chip almost seem to sniff, I feel my tail come loose, and I take a bite out of the chip, I begin to get nervous that ghastly is going to find it... "I'm easterly, but everyone calls me cast, what's your name?" she smiled taking a chip again in her mouth, not realizing vastly was hovering paying more attention to the girl then trying to get her snacks I hear the talking and look up." Hey look!" I say to Start, "New people!"" Bulba!" He says and begins to walk over to them. I follow suit and put my hands in my pocket." Hello! I'm Peter." I say with a slight smile. Start sniffs at Vastly. Easterly smiles "oh hey, I'm Easterly but everyone calls me cast.chip?" she hands out the bag offering as vastly's attention went from Ceylon to Start "that guy over there is vastly, have some manners dude" Easterly laughed and vastly floated above Start going around in a circle "vastly last" easterly watches and smiles "so Peter are you live around here or passing though?" I watch the Ghastly, normally I would probably be playing with them in my normal form, but I didn't want to get caught. I don't notice that my tail is in the open. "I don't live here," I say, "My friend is out of town, and I'm just keeping his garden while he's away." I take two chips from the bag and throw one to Start. I see something moving in the corner of my eye and turn to it. A tail!" Ummm.... Do you have a cantata in your shirt or something?" I look confused and notice my tail, I stuff it into my pants and smile at you "What?" "Umm... Nothing." I put the thought out of my mind." So what's your name?" I say. "MMM... Zor-ey..." I system, almost saying Zora. Jimmy was hanging out with his Bulbasaur, named Bulb "Bulb" the Bulb said, while pointing towards a direction. "What is it?" Jimmy asks, when he sees that there are people talking. "Do you want to go to them?" Jimmy asked. Bulb shook his head yes. Jimmy then went to go say hello to them. My tail wags inside of pants, I begin getting even more nervous. If I was found out, then they would catch me and put me in of their balls. Dalton's alarm clock went off. "Huh what?!" he screamed as he flipped and fell off the bed. "Ugh." he said as he tried to get up. "That hurt..." he said, walking out of his room. He started getting into his normal clothes, brushed his teeth, hair. The same old, same old. "Bye Mom!" he yelled as he started running down the stairs with Blaze. "See you soon, Dalton" his mom said. Dalton then ran out of the house and looked around. "What a beautiful day today..." he said, petting his Character. He looked around and saw a group of people. "I wonder what they're doing..." Dalton thought to himself as he walked over to them. "Bulb!" Start said. I turned and looked where he was pointing. I saw someone walking over with another Bulbasaur. Start looked up at me."Oh, go ahead." I say and he runs over to the newcomer. I wave at them. (It's a character, not a Bulbasaur. x3)Dalton look over at the Bulbasaur coming toward him. "Woah!" he said, he's spinning in a circle and held onto Blaze as tight as he could. "Oh... It's just a friendly Bulbasaur... He..." he said as he looked over at the Bulbasaur, then at Blaze. "Hi..." he said as he waved to Start. (Noonononono It was directed at filed XD It's cool though)"Calm down Start." I say. "He's pretty excitable." I walk over to Start and pick him up." I guess he likes your character!" (Oh, sorry! My bad. XD)"I guess so..." Dalton said as he chuckled a little. "So what's your name?" he asked the boy. "Mine is Dalton..." he told the boy, smiling. "I'm Peter." I say with a smile. "From around here?" I ask. "Yes I am" Dalton said. "That's a cool name Peter..." he said after that, then he started to pet Blaze. "Thanks." I say. Start fidgets and jumps out of my arms towards Blaze. I step back a little and turn, walking straight into the forest. I grab Start. "Bad!" I say and tap him on the nose. "Where should we go today, Lester, Vern?" Criteria quietly asked her Pokémon who were walking beside her. The two Pokémon gave their own responses, both directing towards a forest, and she nodded in response. As the three of them were making their way towards their destination, Criteria caught sight of a group of people that caught her interest. Bulbasaurs, Characters, and a Vastly! Those are all from the Kant region, right? She thought excitedly." This is my first time seeing them in real life..." she muttered to herself, making sure that no one else could hear her besides Lester and Vern. I hear a noise and turn around. A new person is approaching." So many new faces today!" I say and welcome the newcomer. I change back to my normal form and notice a girl and walk behind her, remaining hidden. "What happened to Zora?" I ask. Surprised that someone had heard her, a hand flew to cover her mouth and her eyes widened as pink bloomed on her face. Was I too loud? Unconsciously, she had already started backing up when the back of her leg hit against something. Criteria looked down to find her Pokémon, her best friends, headbutting against her in a form of encouragement. Knowing just how stubborn the two could get, Criteria turned back to face the stranger welcoming her. However, almost immediately, her shyness came back full blast. Knowing that her voice had given out on her, she resorted to shyly waving. "I'm Peter, nice to meet you!" I say in a cheerful voice." Bulba!" Start says, and he looks at the two Pokémon behind the girl. "Come on. How about you come over here" Jimmy said to the newcomer. "What are your names anyway?" Speaking in a quiet voice, Criteria said, "... Rixelia. M-My name's Criteria, but you can call me Cilia."" These are my friends Lester and Vern," she continued, pointing towards the Shine on her left and then the Levee to her right. They gave their own form of greetings. "Nice to meet you William." I say. Start walks over to the levee and sniffs at it, confused. "N-Nice to meet you," Criteria returned with a small smile. An alarmed look appears on Vern's face, confused as to why a Bulbasaur was sniffing him. "Don't worry about Start. I just don't think he's ever seen an levee before." I say with a smile." Bulba...." Start says to Vern. (Vern is the levee right?) (According to the cs, it is)"Pixel? That's a nice name" Jimmy said, with a smile on his face. Bulb walked around them a few times, then he then went to the shine. "Bulb bulb" Bulb said to Lester. "I think Bulb just made a new friend" Jimmy said with a chuckle. Just now realizing that there was another Bulbasaur here, Start greeted Bulb with a friendly "Bulb!" I walk slightly forward and trip, falling forward, and mentally curse myself, then notice I am standing right in plain sight. I study the area around me for a way out. "T-Thanks," Criteria returned with a slightly wider brighter smile of her own at the compliment." I've never seen Bulbasaurs before," she muttered offhandedly as she watched her Pokémon make new friends. I notice that the humans haven't noticed me and get kinda mad, I puff up tail as if trying to draw attention. "Well then it's your lucky day!" I say, "We got two of them here!" I see something moving and turn my head towards it." Hey there!" I say to the strange new Pokémon. "I've never seen this before. What kind of Pokémon are you anyway?" *Vastly who vanished while everyone was talking followed Zora as she went away, sticking close but staying invisible, floating above her head, easterly who was still back at her place her chips now all gone, looked around* "hey vastly? Where are you?....you guys see where he went?" she asked now realizing Zora was not there anymore, she decided she was going to go look for them both. I look at the ghastly "Zora, Zora?" 'What do you want?' I ask, then notice the human male and puff up my tail even more "Zora…" Criteria followed Peter's gaze and her eyes sparkled at the sight of the Zora." It's a Zora!" she said in awe, crouching down to take a closer look at the Pokémon. "Though..."" Were they usually this color...?" she tilted her head, trying to remember its appearance as shown in her books at home. Jacket walks through the forest, on the forest path. He holds a cardboard box under his left arm, tucked up under his armpit. As his Pokémon that is a Turret, Whom Jacket calls Fur fur by nickname. Lays across Jackets shoulders, taking a nap as Jacket brings the box before himself to open the lid. Once the lid was open, Jacket saw there were one set of Fire, Water, Thunder, Leaf, Moon, Sun, Shiny, Dusk and Ever Stones. Jacket checks that the stones are in check and closes the lid of the box before tucking back under his armpit. Once it was back where it was being held at. Jacket takes a quick glance around the forest whilst walking, before at Fur fur. Who is pretty much still asleep. Jacket smiles at Fur fur, then turns his head forward, slightly looking downwards of the path he's walking on still. I growl at the human female, not liking how she is studying me... "Watch out. She doesn't look too happy with that." "I think maybe we should get out of here before the Zora attacks us or something" Jimmy said. "Hey, want to go to my place" Jimmy asked? Criteria flinched, startled that a growl was directed towards her for the first time. Unsure of what to do, she muttered a quiet, sullen apology to the Zora before straightening herself and backing away to make distance between them. "I... don't think it'll attack us."" Um, we were actually going to train, so..." she said in response to Jimmy's question, still a bit shy. I stop growling, studying the humans, wondering what they are doing... Jacket enters the town with Fur fur's left ear starting to twitch. Before Fur fur raises his head up with a simple response of "Fur?" Fur fur said which Jacket would not understand, but Fur fur said'Huh?' Furfur looks towards the group of trainers. Where it appears that Jacket is walking past them, towards the closes Poker. Or the building with the blue roof. Fur fur turns his head to look down at Jacket. But then Jacket responds to Fur fur rather swiftly before just entering the Poker. "You can go explore, Fur fur. Just don't get yourself in trouble, alright? Also. Meet me back here once you're done." Jacket kneels before the revolving doors of the Poker to extend his arm to touch the ground, to let Fur fur run along down his arm onto the ground before Jacket. Fur fur then turns around to look back up at the now arising Jacket. Whom Jacket then nods down at Fur fur, before then walking into the Poker. Furfur watches as Jacket walks into the Poker, Before Fur fur turns on the spot quite excitedly towards the group of Pokémon and trainers alike. Fur fur gets down on all four stubby turret paws, to run up towards them in a happy sound of; 'Fur- Turret!- Fur!'" Hey! Hello! Hey!". Turret then stops sprinting towards the group of Pokémon and trainers, to stand just about two feet away from them in a happy sort. As Fur fur's eyes glimmer in excitement. 'Furrier~!'" Whow~!" Meanwhile, Jacket is just dropping off the box to the store employee, before taking the time to take a look around the Poker stocks upon show himself. Mostly eyeing the berries section of the store. To buy for Fur fur to have later on. I notice the Pokémon and watch it, "For, Zora?" 'Trained or Free?' I ask "Look who's getting excited." I say to the Zora. Furthermore, I turn to Jimmy and say, "Sorry, but I'd have to agree with Criteria. We should train. I could come over some other time though." Just then I realize why the Zora is getting so excited, there is a turret amongst us. Fur fur tilts his head at the odd looking Zora Pokémon with blue streaks in its fur. Fur fur then straightens his head more upright again as he gazes at the Zora Pokémon. 'Turret!'" Trained!". Fur fur responds excitedly. Criteria was just about to separate from the group to train with Lester and Vern after saying her goodbyes when she heard the excited cries of a Pokémon. Turning towards the source, sparkles seemed to surround her when she caught sight of the Turret. Her curiosity overcoming her shyness, Criteria walked over to the Pokémon with Lester and Vern in tow and gently knelt down a bit away from it. She greeted the Turret with a smile on her face along with a wave, overjoyed to meet yet another Pokémon she read about, even more so since it was one that she had looked forward to seeing. Bulb goes over to the turret "Bulba bulb"Hello. How are you"That's okay. I have to go to the poker quickly to get some stuff. Be back in a few minutes." Jimmy said. When at the poker, he notices another person, but doesn't think anything of it. He buys 1 Mint berry, 1 PRZCureBerry, and 3 potions. That person in the shop keeps on catching his eye while he is shopping. He pays the shop lady, and goes back to the group. I roll my eyes and seem to laugh at you, "For, Zora… Zor" "You know I feel bad for you…little one" (This is what's going through my head of Fur fur atm ^3^, And I drew it in a matter on mins. *Blow pistols holes*) Excited Fur fur picture [+] (Woods. Fixed.) Furfur tilts his head again at Zora again before looking towards the approaching Criteria, Responding quite cheerily at Criteria. 'Furry- ET!- Turret!. Turret fur fur. Fur FM fur? FM fur turret sure fur furniture'"Hey~! I'm--! Fur fur! Turret for short. You two are? If you don't mind me asking". Jackel notices someone was watching him to the minute notice. As Jacket goes to grab six Oran Berries, then ques up to the till to buy the berries. Once the rather odd peering boy that once left in a jiffy. Jacket pays for the Oran Berries. Then begins to leave the Poke mart. Jacket now stands outside the Poke mart, leaning up against the wall, nearing the poke mart revolving doors, to just make out Fur fur is having fun with what seems to be trainers and their Pokémon. Though... Jacket just hopes Fur fur won't course some trouble amongst that crowd. I shake my head as if ashamed to be near this Turret... Despite being happy that she got a positive response from Fur fur, Criteria blinked confusedly. Having no clue at what Fur fur had just said, she turned to Vern and Lester for help. Noticing their trainer's silent call for help, the two Pokémon stepped in, but not before Lester threw a confused glance at the Zora and asked,"What's so bad about having a Trainer?" While Lester talked with Zora, Vern decided to answer Fur fur's question,"Her name's Criteria. I'm Vern, and the Shine over there is Lester. I think the Zora's Zora or something." "They are humans, which are evil and cruel, forcing us to battle just to grow up…and I am not Zora, I am Zora, I do not use a Name as your trainers do…" 'FM? Turret fur!'" Oh? Well, it's a pleasure to meet you all!" Furfur says as he mostly stands on his hind stubby paws to gaze towards Zora curiously. "What?" I ask the Turret annoyed Lester's expression saddened, and he tried to persuade Zora,"Not all humans are evil." "Yes they are…" I say defiantly Lester opened his mouth to reply, but closed it again when he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned towards Vern, and they had a silent exchange before Lester turned his attention back to Zora and said,"Whatever works for you, I guess." Despite not understanding what they were saying, Criteria was still watching the Pokémon interact, and noticed her Shine feeling a little down. By habit, she comfortingly patted Lester's head, and he looked up at her with a happier expression. As she was doing this, Criteria felt a gaze on their group and looked around until she found another male looking towards their direction. I turn towards Lester and grin "Thank you…" SLARTI overheard the conversation and walked over to the others." Bulba... bulb bulb. Bulb bulb bulb. Bulba bulb. "~My experience with humans have been pretty good... Some can be bad though. I've heard Peter talk about these guys called Team Plasma. He said that they wanted to destroy the UNIMA region, and they used Pokémon as warriors... ~ PETER I watched the Pokémon intently, trying to figure out what they're talking about. Fur fur listened to what the other Pokémon had to say before responding with an opinion of Pokémon being with humans. "Fur, Turret fur! Sure fur."' Being with humans is great! But there is no other reason to hate them for what they are. Yes-Some others may seem a little pushy. But that's entirely up to us.' Furfur said, as he looked towards Zora. "Fur turret?"' Though... What is it like to run stray?', Turret asked Zora with a slight- But yet glimmer in his eyes on the matter of the subject, Jackel steps away from the wall, to start walking over towards the Pokémon center to ring up a certain someone. "It is freedom, my own battles, and not listening to a human complain every five minutes" I explain 'Current fur, Turret.'" Have you ever been in that situation before?" Furfur questions. "That isn't of your concern…" I say annoyed that you would ask such a thing. Fur fur points his ears downwards from what looks like a saddened expression on his face before responding quite lowly. "Fur..."' Oh... Alright.' Furfur said. But his ears point back up again, regaining his happy expression to say his fair does. "Turret! Fur, fur turret!"' Goodbye! I have to go now!' So says Fur fur before turning on the spot on his hind legs. Then plopping himself down on all fours to run towards the poke mart. But Jacket was nowhere near the poke mart. He was in the Pokémon center. On a call to his father about the box delivery of evolution stones at the towns poke mart. Easton let Fiona out of her ball for she has some freedom without being in her ball for a long amount of time on their Journey into the new town. Easton on his way to the ton he saw a group of Pokémon hanging out with this Pokémon He didn't Recognize. He just shrugged and headed to the town, but stopped near the group and sat on the ground out of curiosity of the new Pokémon. Fiona was confused why her trainer just sat on the ground for no reason, but she went over to see what the commotion was. When she got where Easton was her shyness took a hold of her, and she became a shy little fox and listened to what the other Pokémon amongst themselves, she didn't mind a bit if they don't sense her near them. Fiona didn't care if she was invisible towards these strange Pokémon, Fiona knew it would be rude just to stare so she laid down next to her trainer and curled up in a ball. Easton just pet her then spoke to the Pokémon even though they don't understand his language. " Hi I'm Easton and this little fox is Fiona the Hennepin." he said and looked around the area he sat. Fur fur stops halfway at the sudden arrival of a new Pokémon, with their trainer. Fur fur saw that his friend (Jacket) has not returned. So... In the meantime. Fur fur scurried over towards the sitting human, standing somewhat behind him slightly. Fur fur was just standing there on his hind legs, staring at (Easton) the humans back in glimmer. Jackel puts the phone down from the call box. With a sigh. "Seems dads not home..." As Jacket scratches the top of his head slightly. Jacket then suddenly remember of Fur fur and starts going back towards the poke mart. Fiona stood up and sniffed near her Trainer and saw another Pokémon she nipped gently at Easton sleeve which snapped out of his thought train and looked at her and saw in her eyes that another Pokémon appeared behind him. Easton just smiled pet Fiona's head then looked over his shoulder and saw the other Pokémon that Fiona was telling him about." well hello there little fellow my name is Easton and this is my partner Fiona." he said in a nice tone towards the Turret smiling as he pet Fiona's head to calm her down a little. "Fur! Turret!" said out excitedly at them both, which translate in Pokémon language to other Pokémon alike-'Hi! I'm Fur fur!' Shame humans don't understand. "Fur?"' How you?'asked Fiona. -But again. Easton might not understand. Fiona looked at the Turret and nodded and spoke shyly "fen Penn Hennepin"' I'm good what about you?' She said to the turret in a shy tone, but she spoke since she felt a little bit more comfortable by her trainer's touch. She really wished that humans could understand Pokémon talk, but she knew that would never happen in a lifetime. Fiona is fine with it though. Easton just watched Fiona and the new Pokémon chatting with each other he felt relieved that she didn't run off somewhere like she usually did when her shyness took a hold of her. Fur fur looks towards the poke mart, before turning his head back to look at Fiona. "Furre turret fur."' I'm waiting for a friend over there.' Just as Fur fur looked away. Jacket just comes in plain sight of Fur fur. But Fur fur was looking away, not noticing Jacket had just returned to the current spot Jacket last left at. Jacket takes a quick glance about, before towards a sitting trainer. Whilst seeing Fur fur in relief. Fiona looked at the new trainer and became shy again, but then looked back to the Turret and yipped once again. "Fen Fen Fen Hennepin." she said. 'So that person is your friend, I'm happy he came to get you.' Easton looked up towards the new trainer who appeared. " Hi I'm Easton, and she is Fiona my Hennepin." he said to Jacket then fell silent and looked at Fur Fur and Fiona and was pleased to see that Fiona has a new friend not just him and Girl. I notice all the humans and growl, not loudly, but just enough that everyone can hear it. Jacket did not make out what the sitting trainer just said due to the far distance between them and the poke mart, as he walked over towards Fur fur, Jacket started to crouch sit near Fur fur, placing out his hand with an Oran Berry in it towards Fur fur. Furfur nodded at Fiona, before turning around on the spot to see Jacket, Fur furs friend. Fur fur walked over on all fours for a shot bit to take the Oran Barry out of his hand. Fur fur then starts to chow down on the Oran Barry happily. Jacket looks towards Fiona with a slight wave then responding to Easton. "Hey, I'm Jacket Howl and this is my friend Fur fur." Jacket points at Fur fur, who is eating the Oran Barry. Jacket takes a quick glance at the odd growling Zora whilst setting his waving hand down. SLARTISlarti walks over to Fur fur and sniffs at the berry, confused." Bulba bulb."~I've never seen those before! I usually just eat whatever Peter grows for us.~ Fur fur looks at Start whilst lowing his Oran Barry. "Fur turret!"' My friend knows where to get them. But what ever it is, it tastes great!' " Hi Jacket Howl, my names Easton Aries and this is Fiona my friend Fiona my Hennepin he said and continued to pet her gently on her head, which made her calm and a little brave. She went over to Jacket and looked up at wondering if he is a good person or something else. She sat down in front of him and in front of Fur Fur and the new Pokémon, her ears twitched as she heard the growling of another Pokémon. Her gaze left the trainer and towards the growling Zora. She stood up and walked over to the growling Zora, but kept a little distance for she wouldn't have to make it attack her. Fiona barked." Fen Hennepin? Fen Fen Fen Hennepin. ' Why are you growling all of a sudden? These people are not enemies.' Easton just looked towards the growling Pokémon once again." this Pokémon species is fascinating and rare, since there isn't any here usually unless something happened where it once lived at." he said to himself out loud to think what this Pokémon was doing here. Jacket stares at the low growling Zora. "Yeah... I once read that they have red coloring's in their fur. But I did not expect to run into one, let alone the coloring's of its fur to be blue." Jacket exclaimed. I look at the two humans who are studying me, I begin to feel as if I should attack one of them Jacket begins to scratch the back of his head as he goes to take out an Oran Barry from his leg bags. He then holds it out to Zora. "I'm offering you this." Jacket says, whilst holding it out towards Zora. Jacket then cracks a small smile across his lips down at Zora as he sits crouches. Facing Zora more fully. PETER"That is interesting" I say as I look more closely at the Zora. "I've never even heard of a Zora with blue fur." I bend down and look at the Zora's fur so that it shimmers in the light. I see that Jacket has thrown an Oran berry to it." I wonder if it'll take the berry..." Easton looked at Jacket" that is very interesting, so this fellow is really a rare little one." he said to him, then brought his attention back towards the Zora. " We mean no harm and I don't want to have a battle against you so calm down a bit little fella, we are just interested and surprised to see a Pokémon species that we never knew about." He said to the Zora. Then looked towards the other trainer who came up to the location and nodded in agreement yeah that is true." he said then got up and stretched a bit then crouched down once again watching the Zora. Fiona stood up and went a little closer to the new Pokémon, but she didn't show any interest in fighting anyway like her trainer." fen gherkin." she said to the Zora was translated. ' We mean no threat to you, so clam down a bit.' Fiona just stood there and waited for the Zora to settle down a bit, before her next step forward. SLARTISlarti overheard the excitement and waddled over to the group crowded around the Zora. He squeezed through to find Peter, kneeled down looking at a Zora." Bulba bulb!"~What's your name?~ He said to the Zora. I push the berry around and smell it suspiciously. I look at Start "Zora… Zorua" 'My "name" is Zora, I don't use a human name' SLA RTI "Bulb bulb bulb."~ I suppose that would make sense. What with you being wild and all... And I mean wild in the most flattering way possible. ~ I look at you annoyed, "What? Is being wild not flattering?"(She is proud that she is wild…) SLA RTI "Bulb bulb...."~ I just assumed that you preferred a more distinguished term... ~ "Wild, Free…exact same thing…" I say, still annoyed. "… Now to investigate this berry…" SLA RTI "Fur fur said that they're called Oran berries. Some special thing that trainers buy for their Pokémon."(Ok I'm officially done typing the bulb bulbs) (I will only type it when a human is posting to my character)"It smells like…I don't even know…" SLA RTI "Hey, your guess is as good as mine. I've never seen these either." Fur fur looks at Zora with a way over happy excitement over his face. He then lifts his Oran berry up slightly, as if trying to show something. "You eat it!" Fur fur said of course in Pokémon language. Fur fur then lowers the Oran Berry to take a big hefty bite out from it. Then Fur fur starts chewing on the piece he bit out from the Oran Berry. Jackel just watches Fur fur and Zora closely. I lick the berry, not sure what the flavor is, "Zora!" 'This tastes strange...' Fur fur swallows before responding. "Trust me! You'll feel a hundred times better!" Before Fur fur takes another bite down on his Oran Berry. Jackel then goes to check how much Oran Berry she has left. I pick up with mouth, throw it in the air, and it lands in mouth, I chew it and swallow. My mouth salivates at the flavor, but I hide it. Not wanting anybody to notice. SLA RTI"So how was it?" "I am not sure…it tastes strange…" I say smiling Fiona" Well berries are good for Pokémon and the Oran berries, help heal the Pokémon's health after a battle. Trainers originally feed berries as a treat for the for us or create Poke puffs with them if they want. Freedom is always a great thing to have, but having a trainer doesn't mean you totally lost your total freedom in the wild that we all used to have in our lives." she said to the Zora and the others that was around in her Pokémon language. Easton: Easton stood up and took out his own berry case and examined, and just smiled. " I can make good poke puffs out of these or just feed them to the Pokémon old fashion way." he said to himself. "Wrong, humans are selfish, in fact I am surprised none of these humans have tried to catch me yet…" I say annoyed, and realize that I could speak the human's language, but I didn't really want to, so I decide to show off. I change into my Zora form. Fiona She thought for a minute then spoke once again to the Zora." I wonder did a human do something horrible towards you and others at your own home region? Most humans want to protect Pokémon with all their lives no matter what the Pokémon thinks. So some humans will save Pokémon even if the Pokémon doesn't want any help in their lives. I know Easton will sacrifice anything to protect you or any other Pokémon who might be endangered, he just likes befriending Pokémon not capturing any Pokémon by force. Unless the Pokémon tries to attack him for some random reason." she said then went silent again. EastonEaston checked his pouch to see if he had any poke puffs left so that he can offer, he found one, and it was a sweet poke puff, he nodded and set it on the ground far from his distance towards the Zora, then he looked at Fiona and smiled. " Fiona you can hang here for a bit I'm going to go gather something's for our journey, so don't go too far since you barely know the layout here quite yet my dear." he said and walked into the town and went to the poke mart to buy items that he will need to use on the journey. I wiggle my fingers, still not use to this human form. "So…yeah…I can do this…" I explain as I smile Easton Easton finished his shopping at the poke mart and looked at the female wondering how she got here, and he looked around for the Zora and was a little confused, but he shrugged off the Confusion and smiled at the girl nicely, then he bowed to her politely then looked towards Fiona as he took out a berry and gave it to his Hennepin then petted her gently as he crouched down at his Pokémon's level. Later he looked back to the new girl and spoke. " Hi I'm Easton Aries and Fiona my Hennepin is my partner to travel with on our journey." he said. Fiona just watched the Zora wondering how can she become a human running all through her brain. "I am Zora I guess…well that's my fake name, I am actually the Zora…" Wizard Girl said "I am Zora I guess…well that's my fake name, I am actually the Zora…" " Nice to meet you Zora the Zora how are you? You look very adorable and a very amazing look that you have here, So I like it a lot." he said to the Zora. Easton continued to pet Fiona and scratched Fiona behind her ears gently. "Yes, I created this form a few years ago, since I required a way to…borrow items from humans" I say smiling at you. I notice your wallet and smile even more. Easton smiled back at her sweetly. " That is an amazing technique you have Zora, you are one interesting Pokémon." he said and looked at her. " Umm do want me to buy you something Zora or is it something else you want." he said as he looked at her in the eyes while fingering his wallet in his hand." oh by the way I'm the heir of my father's company when he retires or dies, so I will be quite rich even if you try to steal my wallet, since I took the important things out of it so don't worry if I lose it anywhere." he said to Zora. "No…it's fine, i just REALLY like stealing stuff…" I say smiling "…oh and by the way, my fur is blue and not red because of something your professors call 'Shiny' basically it changes the color of a Pokémon…" " Wow that is very cool, I never saw any shiny Pokémon on my travels Zora. So you're my first Shiny Pokémon I have seen during my travels with Fiona and Girl my Gigafarad. So I'm quite fortunate to meet my very first shiny Pokémon and a rare one at that. oh, okay I was just wondering if you wanted something, since I would have bought it for you if you wanted. Well stealing can be fun, but it is also a bad thing to do, but Pokémon don't mind if it is good or bad, to them, it is a game to play with the traveling trainers." he said. I smile, still keeping an eye on your wallet. "Yeah…but anyway…since I can speak both Pokémon and human, I can be a translator…." Wizard Girl said I smile, still keeping an eye on your wallet. "Yeah…but anyway…since I can speak both Pokémon and human, I can be a translator…." " Well that is unique of you Zora if you want my wallet so bad go ahead and take it, I don't mind if you take it away from me, I will just re-buy a new one. You are an awesome Pokémon and really different I like that a lot, that would be awesome to have a translator on our side." he said and handed his wallet to her. "Do whatever you please with the wallet. I don't mind if you flee, since I'm not interested in harming you or force capture you. I will let you decide rather you want to join my team or not, I'm fine with any answer or decision you decide on." he said. PETER Taken aback by what I had just seen, I say, "Wait a minute here... I know you. I was just talking to you before you turned into the Zora! That's insane! How do you do that anyway?" crazyman6699 said Taken aback by what I had just seen, I say, "Wait a minute here... I know you. I was just talking to you before you turned into the Zora! That's insane! How do you do that anyway?" "Well technically it's an illusion…and also I don't want your wallet, I said I liked STEALING things…and do none of you have a Pokédex?" I say calmly PETER"Well I don't know about the others, but I don't..." I say. "I thought all you humans get a Pokédex…" I say confused. PETER "Nope. It's really just trainers that have them. I mean, I've seen scientists with them, but most people don't own one." "Well aren't you a trainer?" I ask, still confused During all of this, Criteria had slipped out to run a quick errand in the Poke Mart along with her Pokémon. She came back, and decided that she would spend a bit more time with the group. It was then that she realized that it had somehow grown bigger, and she was at a lost as to what to do. She scanned the group until she found Peter, and she walked on over, and asked, "What did I miss?" Jacket looks up and shuffles through his stuff to bring out a brown colored Pokédex. He then opens it to start scanning it over the suddenly transformed Pokémon, Zora. The Pokédex begins to say... "Zora, Zora is a dark type Pokémon. Zora's are masters of Illusions and can transform into anything they want. Their national habitat is living amongst the wild fields, as well as Zora's like to be crafty at trainers or Pokémon sometimes." Once the Pokédex finished talking. Jacket closes the lid and places back in his leg bags towards his own left side of his leg. Jacket then peers at Fur fur. Furfur smiles widely at Jacket, from just after listening to what the Pokédex had to say and looks back at Zora. Jackel then turns his head to look towards the riving girl. (also known as Criteria) to just peer at her for a short bit in silence. Jacket then looks at the transformed Zora who appears to be a human girl. "I take it the common field was not an ideal place for you to decide to live at?" Seeing a Pokédex was yet again another first for her, and Criteria stared at it curiously while listening to its description of Zora. Realizing that the device was pointed towards what seemed like a human girl, the gears in her head began to turn and something clicked. Oh, so this is the Zora from earlier... Feeling a gaze towards her, Criteria met eyes with Jacket and stiffened, uncomfortable with him peering at her. She almost heaved a relieved sigh when he stopped, and she directed her attention towards the transformed Zora. Easton laughed "well I do have a Pokédex, but it only is use on Pokémon in this region, but hmm lets see Zora." he said and typed in Zora, and he smirked" you are a Zora an Illusionist Pokémon, but the shiny version of the Zora. You are known as the Demon fox Pokémon." he said then shoved his wallet back into his pocket since he didn't feel like teasing her with it out in the open. " I really just wanted to figure out about by myself, oh well." Fiona just listened to the conversation between the Zora and her trainer at a time like this. "It doesn't matter, I just can't live at my old home, and my pack are out of the picture…" "Why did you leave?" Jacket asks the Pokémon transformed in a girl. Furfur notices no one is looking, and he turns his head around to notice a bush off in the far distance Russell. Fur fur tilts his head as he starts to dash over towards it with the Oran Berry in his mouth. For that what ever is inside the rustling bush, shows a tail of some Pokémon. Fur fur then sees what looks like a tiny pink nose poking out of the bush, before Fur fur pokes the nose with his paw. The bush suddenly goes "Little!" WISH! A Lilliput hops out from the bush to stand a foot away from Fur fur. The Lilliput shakes its fur of all leaves off from its own fur and looks at Fur fur quite Angel. "Lil Lilli!"' You blew my cover!'. The Lilliput engages in battle with Fur fur, whom the Lilliput uses tackle on Fur fur. Fur fur gets hit from the lollipops tackle attack age, before yelling. "Turret!" Jackel turns his head at the cries of Fur fur and runs over towards Fur fur. "Fur fur!" Jacket gets down on his knee snidely towards the wild encounter of a Lilliput. Where Fur fur seems to be hurt. Furfur laid there for a bit, his berry half a mile away. But soon gets up. "Turret!"' Fight!'. Jackel clearly saw that fur fur was ready for a fight. But he stepped in front of Fur fur. Fur fur looks up at Jacket from behind. The Lilliput places itself in a protective stance to growl at Jacket. Jacket simply replies at the Lilliput. "We don't want to fight. It's all a misunderstanding." Fur fur peeks out from behind Jackets legs. The Lilliput showed no sign of backing down. It seemed to Jacket that this Lilliput was asking for a fight. But not him, towards Fur fur. As jacket and the Lilliput both looked down towards Fur fur. "Are you sure?" Jacket questioned Fur fur. Furfur simply responds with a "Turret!" Jacket then turns his head quickly to look towards the Lilliput. "Alright!" Jacket takes some paces back behind Fur fur to get ready to command what Fur fur should do. Fur fur was ready too. A wild Lilliput has appeared! Easton looked at the Zora" I have no interest in knowing what happened, since it is your own business Zora, so you don't need to worry about telling me about anything that you don't want to say." he said and tossed a sweet poke puff to her with a gentle smile then lifted Fiona in his arms and curdled her in his arms. " Anyways it's your decision if you want to come with or stay all by yourself in the wild, I have no interest in capturing you without your own decision about your life." he said and looked towards Jacket and his Turret's battle against a wild Lilliput who just popped out of the bushes near the town's entrance. PETER "Well, I WANT to be a trainer." I say to Zora. "By the way, are you still going by Zora, or should we call you Zora like we did before?" "Turret! Get it with a full on scratch!" Jacket points out towards the Lilliput. Turret clenches it paws and says "Turret!". Turret gets on all fours and starts to dash towards the Lilliput to attempt in scratching the Lilliput. But however, the Lilliput was way quicker. The Lilliput evaded from a simple leap to the side! Fur fur turns to face it before getting tackled by it! Fur fur rolls across the ground, before trying to stand up shakily. "Fur fur! Are you okay?!" Jacket calls out. Fur fur shakes himself out from being dazed from the tackle and responds in a simple, "Fur, fur!" Jacket is relieved that Fur fur was momentarily alright in the battle before yelling. "Alright Fur fur! Let's toughen it up a bit! Use quick attack!" Fur fur starts dashing towards the Lilliput, before Jacket notices that Lilliput was about to tackle again against Fur fur. "Defense Curl, Fur fur! And use quick attack again!" Shouted Jacket. "Fur!" Turret responded and curled itself in a small ball to take a slightly lesser hit from the Lilliput's tackle. The Lilliput jumped back to stare at fur fur puzzled before Fur fur came out from its defensive ball to quick attack Lilliput, The Lilliput gets hit and does not yelp in pain for some odd reason. But however, it lands slightly wounded from the quick attack on two front collapsed legs from the Lilliput's front. Jacket and Fur fur soon notices that there is no point to keep harming the Lilliput if it can't get up. Furfur remains in his battle stance, awaiting Jackets next battle command, but notices Jacket was walking towards the Lilliput. Jacket kneels down to the Lilliput, trying to offer it an Oran Berry. "Eat. You need the rest little guy. As I said, I did not want to push the whole fighting scheme too far." The Lilliput looks up at Jacket hurtfully, then back down at the Oran Berry that Jacket is holding in front of itself. The Lilliput shuffles over to the Oran Berry to sniff it first with closed eyelids, then reopens them to take a nibble off from the Oran Berry. Fur fur soon waddles over with an ever lasting happy expression on his own face as always. Jacket turns his head to look at Fur fur, then smiles down at fur fur. Whilst Fur fur returns the smile also. Suddenly some sounds of the Lilliput getting up caught the attention of both Jacket and Fur fur, to whom they both looked at the Lilliput and... The Lilliput took the Oran berry in a jiffy and legged it with the berry in its own mouth. "Hey wait!" Jacket called out the now fleeing Lilliput with his own arm extended out towards the running away Lilliput. "Good, because I told all I will...and I am Zora..." I explain, looking at the other Pokémon, wanting one of them to tell me something to tell their trainers. Starting Town:Another Towns: Taken [+] A small town that is half over the ocean, The city's gym is a water type gym, and there are about 49 people living there Draw [+] A large city with about 120 people living there, its gym is a fire type Saint [+] One of the smallest towns in the Remain Region, it has maybe 13 people living there, the gym is ghost type Driven [+] The largest town, it has a hunger stadium for the 5 brothers who run the gym Chad (Uses a Flatiron), Jeffery (Uses a Leaf eon), Mark (Uses a Jolt eon), Dylan (Uses a Vapor eon), and lastly Isaac (Is In charge, and Uses an Umbrella) You have lived in the Remain Region all your life, or you have just moved here, or you came here searching for amazing Pokémon, Well this place is everything they say, it doesn't have any new Pokémon, but it has all the other region's Pokémon. Now without further for do, let's get started! Human CNAME:Age:Gender:Hometown:Appearance:What You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.):Pokémon (Max is 2 to start):Crush/Relationship:Family/Friends:Other:Pokémon Nickname:Species:Level:Appearance:Gender:Moves:Friends/Family:Trainer (optional):Other: Nickname: N/Species: Zora (Shiny)Level: 5Appearance:Gender: Female Moves: Illusion, Pursuit, Leer, Scratch Friends/Family: NoneTrainer(optional): N/Other: Gerrard Very interested will make a cs when I get a chance I'm kinda interested but haven't played the latest gen >.>.... Name: CasterlyAge: 14Gender: female Home Town: Ceylon (moved from Saint)Appearance:What You Want to Be: trainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): GastlyCrush/Relationship: TBD Family/Friends: her father Colt who is a stay at home dad Other:Pokémon Nickname:Species: GastlyLevel: 5Appearance:Gender: male Moves: Hypnosis, Spite,Lick Friends/Family:Trainer (optional): CasterlyOther: Am I allowed to have an Levee as a starter? o.o Tsuricube said Am I allowed to have an Levee as a starter? o.o Yes Casterlyrock said Name: CasterlyAge: 14Gender: female Home Town: Ceylon (moved from Saint)Appearance: What You Want to Be: trainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): GastlyCrush/Relationship: TBD Family/Friends: her father Colt who is a stay at home dad Other: Pokémon Nickname: Species: GastlyLevel: 5Appearance: Gender: male Moves: Hypnosis, Spite,Lick Friends/Family: Trainer (optional): CasterlyOther: ACCEPTED EDIT: So much for drawing. Human CNAME: Criteria "Cilia"Age: 12Gender: Female Home Town: DaivenAppearance: Eh, I just ended up using an old drawing [+] What You Want to Be: Trainer Pokemon: Shine and EeveeCrush/Relationship:Family/Friends: Her mother is a designer, and her father is a former trainer, who helps run their boutique. Other:Pokémon Nickname: Lester Species: Skip-level: 5Appearance:Gender: Male Moves: Tackle, Leer Friends/Family: Vern (Friend)Trainer (optional): RixeliaOther:Pokémon Nickname: Vern Species: EeveeLevel: 5Appearance:Gender: Male Moves: Helping Hand, Growl, Tackle, Sand Attack Friends/Family: Lester (Friend)Trainer (optional): RixeliaOther: Will post when home ^°^ Name: Easton Aries Age: 15Gender: Male Home Town: SainoAppearance:What You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.): TrainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): Iran (Girlfriend male) and Fiona (Fennec kin female)Crush/Relationship: open Family/Friends: his Father is a company owner involving electronics and his mother is the owner of a makeup company, brother Sorry a breeder, and Sing his sister is a Pokémon groomer. Other: He is the heir for his father's companyNickName: Fiona Species: FennekinLevel: 5Appearance:Gender: female Moves: Ember, scratch Friends/Family: none yet, except for Girl, and EastonTrainer(optional): Easton Other: she is a really shy and sly little fox, that also can act like a little spoiled princess at times. Name: Jimmy DamroschAge: 12Gender: Male Home Town: CalenAppearance:What You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.): TrainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): Bulb (Bulbasaur)Crush/Relationship: N/Family/Friends: A mother called Julia Other:Nickname: Subspecies: Bulbasaur Level: 5Appearance:Gender: Male Moves: Tackle GroawlFriends/Family:Trainer (optional): Jimmy Other: Tsuricube said I've left their appearances blank for now since I'm going to draw them later once I go home. (Still at school.) Human CNAME: Criteria "Cilia"Age: 12Gender: Female Home Town: DaivenAppearance: What You Want to Be: Trainer Pokemon: Shine and EeveeCrush/Relationship: Family/Friends: Her mother is a designer, and her father is a former trainer, who helps run their boutique. Other: Pokémon Nickname: Lester Species: Skip-level: 5Appearance: Gender: Male Moves: Tackle, Leer Friends/Family: Vern (Friend)Trainer (optional): RixeliaOther:Pokémon Nickname: Vern Species: EeveeLevel: 5Appearance: Gender: Male Moves: Helping Hand, Growl, Tackle, Sand Attack Friends/Family: Lester (Friend)Trainer (optional): RixeliaOther: Accepted In fact, all accepted thank you Those who don't know, when a Zora changes into a human, it keeps it's tail, which I'd pulled, changes them back to their normal form... Edited my CS and sorry, but I have a few questions:-Are we all starting in our hometown or Ceylon?-How are we going to do the battles? Ceylon, beck that where the Professor of our area lives. And battles will be health vs power, and I will control the Gym Leaders. Name:Dalton Age:14Gender:Male Home Town:Calendar You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.):TrainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start):CharmanderCrush/Relationship:None Family/Friends:Dalton's mom, Julie, is a helper at home, and helps Dalton with all sorts of stuff. Such as making breakfast, dinner, and lunch. She is very nice and sweet, and never gets mad at Dalton. His dad, Robert, also helps his mom most of the time, he never takes a break from yard work. Nickname:Blaze Species:CharmanderLevel:5Gender:Male Moves:Scratch, GrowlTrainer(optional):Dalton accepted Finally got around to making a profile. Sorry about the huge Bulbasaur picture :/Human CNAME: Peerage: 14Gender: Male Home Town: DaivenAppearance: (Couldn't find a picture of what I wanted) Brown curly hair, greenish-blue eyes, white, about 5'7"What You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.): TrainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): Bulbasaur (Start)Crush/Relationship: None Family/Friends: Friend James whose garden I am tending in his absence.Pokémon Nickname: SlartiSpecies: Bulbasaur Level: 5Appearance:Gender: Male Moves: Tackle, Growl Friends/Family: MeTrainer(optional): Me as well Accepted Human Character Sheet Name: Jacket Howl (Nickname - The Engineer)Age: 16Gender: Male Home Town: Driven (Moved from Draw, due to his dad needed to find work. Lucky though. There was work in the big city.) Appearance: (I do have a picture of him But I'd rather redraw it better-er.) Jacket wears black fingerless gloves, a bright yellow coat that has a hood. But the under sleeves and sides of the coat is in the color of water proofing black. (Basically... I was aiming for Japanese engineering clothing.) A brown cloth hairband holding up his dirty colored blond hair. He also has a red neckerchief tied loosely around his neck. (Mostly used in snow storms, downfall and sandstorms. Etc.) His eyes are slightly rough looking with a small nose and blue eyes. He also has deep navy blue jeans that lead down to his brown leather boots for road tracking. He carries with him with a backpack on his back. Bearing a tent kit, roll out bed sack, small burners, two pans with two knives and two forks and a red tool box strapped to the top of his backpack... Sometimes... My awful old drawing of him [+] What You Want to Be (Trainer, Breeder, etc.): TrainerPokemon(Max is 2 to start): Just a Turret. Crush/Relationship: None, at the moment. Family/Friends: His father called "Dallas Howl" His mother passed away. But his fathers only Pokémon is a Herder. Other: Jacket came too with his Turret Pokémon friend. When him and his farther saw a weak Turret laying under a rock.Pokémon Character SheetNickName: FurfurSpecies: FurretLevel: 5Appearance: A normal Turret. (But Fur fur has an extra tea colored ring in his back, near his head.) Gender: Male Moves: Scratch, Deference Curl and Foresight. Friends/Family: Dallas Howl and his Pokémon starter Herder. Trainer (optional): Jacket Howl Other: Fur fur has been trying in most times, to convince Jacket. That Fur fur has seen another looking him. But Jacket can't really understand him sadly. Accepted Wizard, is Zora/Zora in Bulbasaur form or Zora form? *wakes up goes to work gets back from work checks RP* wow...I missed a lot T. T Tsuricube said Wizard, is Zora/Zora in Bulbasaur form or Zora form? Normal form Redounds said "Hey~! I'm--! Fur fur! Turret for short. You two are? If you don't mind me asking" Who is Fur fur asking? o.o And darn I wish I could draw like that in a few minutes! Heck, I can't even draw Pokémon. Tsuricube said Who is Fur fur asking? o.o And darn I wish I could draw like that in a few minutes! Heck, I can't even draw Pokémon. Both Criteria and Zora[Edit]Which is funny. Because she won't understand a thing he just said XD -Criteria I mean :b Yeah, that's what I thought too. XD Just wanted to make sure~ I guess I'll have Vern and Lester play translators.EDIT: Oh gosh, how does a Shine talk... I guess Shine or Shine! *Shrugs* :b Until I find an anime episode as reference, bold + italics will have to do~EDIT: Fur fur just made me remember my own Turret named Java~ Good times. I miss 'I'm. Makes me wish I hadn't restarted my Soul Silver. O~o :3I like them because it reminds me when I used to own ferrets. I've always wanted ferrets, but pets aren't my thing. Ovo XD I have to stop going to bed.....I miss so much T. T So yeah... That slightly odd looking stripe at the back his what I mean in the Pokémon character sheet. L More Fur fur fan art [+] .... I lost myself. XD Where's Criteria, again? I guess near the others. Others being. Jacket, Fur fur, Zora, Fiona, Easton, Start, Criteria, Lester, Vern, Jimmy, Bulb, Peter, Start, Easterly and Vastly.... So almost everyone at the moment. Nine Pokémon, six trainers, one that is stray and two belonging to one trainer. Nice job keeping track redounds. I was getting lost myself 0.o No problem! XD Thanks, and sorry for the trouble! I guess I'll try to join in tomorrow... Managed to finish a drawing of Jacket Howl. Took two days towards start and finish. Jacket Howl, VERY BIG. [+] I take it this Pokémon role-play kinda died out...._. Yeah, that's kind of sad... I might remake it Wizard Girl said I might remake it Just saw this, and if you do, I'll definitely be interested, it's been forever since I've done a Pokémon RP. Same, I was just in my subscriptions, saw this, and was like: Hey I should remake that, it was run... Is this still open? No, I will be Remaking it

Pokemon_ Releign Region|rating:3.0

Old Friends (kaz & Luther)

As the car turned into Bridge Street Simon Williams leaned forward and told his driver to pull over. The driver did as he was instructed and when the car stopped he got out and opened the door. Simon stepped out on a street he hadn’t seen for more years than he cared to remember.“I grew up here Jim” he said to the driver without looking round “happiest days of my life!” Jim said nothing but couldn’t help think there was a touch of sadness in Simon’s voice the kind of sadness you hear when someone is bending the truth. Simon Williams had left his home at the age of 16 to work for his Uncle Brian now after all these years his loyalty had paid off when his Uncle died. Brian was childless; his wife had been killed in a road accident, and he had never re-married. Upon his death he had bequeathed his business empire and all of his vast wealth to Simon, the only person that had stuck with him for so many years. Simon had returned to set up his headquarters in his hometown; he had always hated living in London. The new offices had finally been completed and everything was ready. Simon’s move had received a lot of local media attention. By moving back he had created 100 jobs and now everything would be controlled from one office complex. Simon’s uncle had started off with nothing more than an ice cream van and within a year he had 10. He sold the business and started branching out and now the Williams network covered everything from clothes and textiles to information technology. Simon’s personal wealth, business aside, now stood at £125m. Simon got back in the car, and they headed off towards the new offices. The leader of the local council was going to officially open the building and Simon had arranged a party for the local dignitaries. Simon was looking forward to meeting some of his school friends again; however, there were some he’d rather forget. Finally, after almost three years of being unemployed, Katie Herman had a job. She had struggled over the past few years to make ends meet. The divorce had been nasty, and she had lost her job at the same time. She was sure Matthew had had something to do with it, he had been best friends with her manager, so it hadn't been a real surprise when she was called into the office and told that due to the company scaling down operations her job was no longer needed. She got a small severance, and thanks for nothing. Three fucking years on the dole, and she was ready for a new job. When Williams had moved in, people had gone crazy, suddenly there were jobs for the town. Katie had applied for a position. She didn't care what or where, she could turn her hand to most things, and she had over the years. She had dreamed of making something of herself, she was going to go places. But that didn't happen. She had fallen in love in 6th form and found herself pregnant at 19. University went out of the window, she ended up married at 20. She had never left town, and had to eat plenty of humble pie. She hadn't been the nicest of people at school. In fact, she had been a total bitch to those she deemed unworthy of her friendship. She had been ridiculed for years, and even when her daughter was older and the marriage ended (Tiffany had decided to live with her dad) she had had to face those she had hurt at school. At least HE hadn't been around, she couldn't have faced him. Of all those she had been at school with she had treated him the worst. Simon Williams, fat, spotty and the butt of all her jokes. She felt so guilty when she thought about him. But he had disappeared after school, thankfully she hadn't had to deal with him again. When she had been offered a position at Williams, she had been over the moon. Finally, she had work again and no one was going to take this from her. She would prove she was someone worth having. She wasn't going into anything amazing, she was working in the staff restaurant. Furthermore, she loved cooking and was going in as a kitchen assistant, nothing flash, but it was a job. Arriving early she had done the preparations, the head chef would decide what mains were going to be needed today. And as it was the official opening day, she knew the suits from London would be visiting and everything would have to perfect and more. The restaurant was a nice set-up, something you didn't see much of these days in modern companies. Katie had already been told she would be needed to take mid-morning snacks, drinks and coffee up to the boardroom for the dignitaries. She had prepared a couple of platters of sandwiches and some finger foods. She was excited about today, it would be good to have some excitement in the town, and the official opening of Williams head office. Katie was so excited. She might even get to meet Mr Williams himself. She wondered what Simon Williams was up too, funny that he had the same name as her new employer.... He arrived in plenty of time; it would be 2 hours before the official opening so he headed into the reception. There was a receptionist and a security officer behind the desk. The officer stood up as he entered“I’m sorry Sir!” He said. “We are not open, yet the ceremony isn’t till 2pm.” Simon smiled and walked over to the reception desk. He nodded to the receptionist; she had relocated from the London office.“Hi Sally, settling in ok?” She smiled back.“Yes Mr Williams everything is going just great.” The security officer’s expression changed.“Oh sorry Sir I didn’t know who you were.” He came from behind the desk and walked towards the lift and pressed the call button. Simon laughed and followed him over.“No problem, has everything been arranged for the opening party? The officer nodded and Simon stepped into the lift. His office was on the third floor and had a good view of the town. He set his briefcase down and went over to the window. He could pick out the streets where he had played as a boy and remembered the bittersweet days of his childhood. Furthermore, he was never going to be a popular kid at school; he was fat and had a bad episode with acne. Furthermore, he could still remember the names they used to call him. There had been one bitch in particular; he struggled to remember her name, anyway ‘ten bellies’ she used to call him. She used to hang round with a group of girls that were all like fucking sheep, they’d follow her round like little lost lambs.“Bath!” Bollocks, he thought realizing that he had actually voiced the noise of a sheep. He laughed to himself, well no point worrying about her now. He went to the gym 3 times a week, and although he said it himself; had a great body; when you have the help of a personal trainer and a huge bank balance anything is possible. Nobody called him fat now! He crossed the room and sat down at his desk picking up the guest list for the opening party. Going over the list he saw quite a few names he recognized from his school days. Everyone on the list either had an important role in the community or was associated in some way with his business. Time was rolling on so he thought he’d take a tour of the building prior to the guests arriving. He had walked round all the various workshops and thought at the last minute to go check the kitchen just to make sure that everything was on schedule. He came in from the warehouse side and knocked at the head chef’s office door.“Danny” he said holding out his hand “how the devil are you?” Danny was another retainer from London they had both started working for his Uncle about the same time and knew each other very well.“Simon; hey this kitchen is fantastic. We could cater for 500 covers without breaking into a sweat, so when are you going to invite the Queen?” They both laughed Danny had an almost obsessive wish to cook for the Her Majesty, Simon always thought it is a bit strange.“Well I’d better let you show me what all my money was spent on” He stepped back into the main kitchen “lead on MacDuff.” Simon laughed when Danny scowled he always hated it when someone misquoted Shakespeare. Katie was putting the finishing touches to one of the dishes Dan had asked her to prepare. He was a nice guy, and seemed very fair how he ran the kitchens. She was happy here, early days yes, but so far so good. She hadn't really changed much over the years. Her hair was still the same rich auburn it had been at school, she tended to wear it tied back these days, easy and manageable. The green eyes were wiser, tinged with sadness, but they still sparkled with happiness when things were good. Which hadn't been much recently. Her figure wasn't as slim s it had been, but then she still looked good, but she didn't flaunt it like she had at school. She had used her body to get what she wanted, even though a lot of it had been teasing. She had never gone further than that. Not until she was at 6th form and Matt was on the scene. Voices interrupted her thoughts and she looked up, seeing Dan walk in with a handsome man in a suit. Something about him was familiar, but she wasn't sure what. Probably one of the dignitaries for the opening. She smiled at the men, returning to piping fresh cream around a large meringue and strawberry dessert. Simon followed Danny into the main kitchen, and you would have thought Danny had built it himself. He showed the different sections of the kitchen which was structured along the lines of a hotel kitchen with separate areas dedicated to the different sections of the menu. When they got to the pastry section there was girl working there on some desserts for the party. She was about Simon’s age he thought as she looked up and smiled at them, he nodded back and followed Danny round the corner to the stores. Once they had seen everything he left Danny in charge and headed for the door. As he drew level with the walk in fridge he bumped into the girl from the pastry section. Now he was closer he managed to get a good look at her face, there was something about her eyes that seemed familiar. He apologized and carried on past her picking up speed he ran up the stairs heading to his office. Once in the outer office he asked his PA to get him logged into the staff management system they used. She followed him to his desk and called up the program.“Have you used this program before Simon?” She looked doubtful, it wasn’t that he didn’t know how to use a computer it was just that the software was a complicated management and development system that had a 4-day training course in with the cost.“Gail I only want to browse the staff files not put in bloody training programs, surely that isn’t too hard?” She shrugged.“Just don’t save anything!” She got up and went back to her desk whilst Simon sat down. He clicked the tab marked catering and flicked through the files till he came to the one bearing the picture of the girl in the kitchen.“Herman, Katherine; now I remember you!”Oh, yes her name came back with a flood of visions of being cornered by 3 or 4 girls poking and pinching him, spitting on him and all the time Katie Herman was standing there in the background egging them on.“What’s the matter ten bellies? Don’t you like girls? I bet he has a tiny cock all fatties have tiny cocks.” She held up her hand and clenched all her fingers but the little one.“I bet my finger’s bigger!” All the time the sheep were bleating. Till the one time that Katie had pushed her way between them and as they held him against the wall had pulled down his trousers and pants to prove her theory. He had smiled then as they all stood back and instead of the infantile cock they had all expected they saw his semi-erect penis that must have been 8 or 9 inches then. He’d reached down and pulled his trousers up and without warning charged at the girls using his weight to barge past them and run for the school buildings. Simon decided that he should do nothing for the time being the opening was more important than anything else today; Katie Herman would wait. Katie didn't give a thought to the man who AHD been shown around the kitchen. It was obvious that Danny knew him. Katie found him very handsome, but there was still that niggle of recognition. She was sure she should know him. But she couldn't place him. She sighed, and then focused on her task. She would have to take the mid-morning nibbles up at 10. The platters were covered with cling film and placed in the cold store until needed. She had the silver coffee pots ready, a tea pot as well. There was also a selection of freshly squeezed juries. Nothing had been wasted. She took a break at 9.30 and was surprised to see a text from her daughter, Tiffany was 15 now. And caused Katie more heartache than she had ever known. Her ex-husband had twisted the mind of the teenager so that she believed everything that went wrong in her life was Katie's fault. The text wasn't nice. Katie read it and felt a familiar ache, why had he poisoned her against her. Mum, I need some money. Dad said he can't afford it as he’s had to keep me for the past three years. He says if I want to go on the trip you'll have to pay. Of course, he said you won't, but I am asking you for £300. I need it to go to Euro Disney. It's a school trip and I need the money. Don't let me down again. Katie felt tears prickle her eyes, she had never let her down, Matthew had often cancelled arrangements, she guessed he had blamed her. Tiffany believed him and she was the ogre of the piece. And it hurt. She realized that there were a lot of bridges that needed to be mended, but she didn't think her daughter would care. Coffee break was over, and she went back to work, preparing the food and drinks to take upstairs and wonder how she could get that amount of money for her daughter. She would, somehow she would get that money and show her that she wasn't the monster her father made her out to be. The day went well for Simon the morning coffee was served by the hell-bitch from his school days, but he had managed to get over the urge to say something to her. She had looked a bit troubled as she served the food and drinks but as he would with any other member of staff didn’t ask if there was a problem. The guests had all arrived and the ribbon had been cut Williams new headquarters was officially open and with the formalities completed everyone moved to the main canteen which had been decked out with balloons and bunting for the day. Simon gave a speech outlining how he intended to expand the warehousing part of his operations in the town which would in turn mean more jobs for the area. It was now that he turned his rhetoric to why he was doing this; he told them that he was the prodigal son returning to the fold and since he had been fortunate in life he wanted to share that with the community that raised him. Of course a few of the people there already knew who he was but to some of the others it was a surprise. All in all his speech was well received, and the local newspaper had made a big thing of getting photos of him with the local brass and also with some of his staff. He got a couple of guys from the warehouse and some of the technicians from the computer workshops to come up to the canteen for the photos. He also called through to Danny telling him to come and join them and to bring the young lady who had worked so hard on the food for the party. Simon was sure that his speech would have carried through to the kitchen and just as sure that Katie would have heard and now knew who her new boss was. After the photos had been taken Simon dismissed the staff and turned to his guests.“Ladies and Gentlemen; thank you all so much for coming today and making this opening such a success. I have to leave you now; unfortunately this ship needs her captain. I have instructed the staff to keep you well-fed and watered, the band is due to start playing about 7pm, and I have instructed security to kick you all out at 1 o’clock. So enjoy yourselves – it’s all free!” With that he left, shaking hands with people along the way to the door he got back to his office and got out his mobile; after selecting a number he pressed the call button.“Mr Brody, I have an assignment for you. I will make a reservation for you at the Premier Inn. I assume you will be able to get here for tomorrow evening?[pause]Yes I want a full spectrum operation. Your usual fee plus expenses. Till tomorrow then.” Simon decided to go to the gym then head home for an early night; he was planning a busy day for tomorrow. Katie's day had been non-stop. She had served the morning snacks and drinks, trying not to let the problems with Tiffany get to her. She would try to find the money, but it wasn't going to be easy. Furthermore, she had creditors on her back, her car payments were a couple of months behind, she was behind in the rent. If she didn't pay soon she would lose both. And she couldn't afford to let that happen. Not now. She stood behind the salad counter was Mr Williams made his speech. She listened with the others, clapping politely when everyone else did. And then everything suddenly came to a halt. She knew him. He was that kid from school, the one she had been so nasty too. Simon Williams was her boss, multimillionaire and sex god. The women in the audience couldn't keep their eyes off him, and as he explained who he was the penny dropped not just for Katie, but others gasped in astonishment. Simon Williams had come home, and he was being greeted like a savior. Katie felt suddenly sick. She hated the way she had treated him. She had been so cock sure then, nasty, so sure of her own good looks. But that had changed, Matthew had changed that, he had changed a lot of things in her. But Simon Williams was home, and she had a feeling things weren't going to be pleasant between them. The photo call was uncomfortable, she didn't want to stand to close, but she had no choice. She was stood next to him, Danny on the other side. Katie had never felt so uncomfortable. And then he was gone leaving Katie feeling as if the bottom had just dropped out of her world. Again. She was working till midnight, food was being served till 10, then she would clear up and lock the kitchen down. She would also be back in early the next morning, she had no life outside of work, so she threw herself into it. Hopefully she wouldn't be fired at the first excuse. Next morning she arrived at work at 6.30. Bob the security guard was bright and welcoming, the kitchen felt like an old friend as she set the coffee to brew. She planned brunch, going down Danny’s list and making a start on the things she could. She couldn't get Simon out of her mind though, she really needed to try and talk to him, but he was the boss, and she was a lowly kitchen assistant, what would she say to him now. Furthermore, she wasn't sure and that was going to play on her mind for the day and probably a long while after. Simon rose at 7 am he showered, shaved and then sorted out a gray suit to wear that day. He went downstairs to the kitchen and made a pot of coffee; whilst he waited for it to brew he poured himself a bowl of cornflakes. He poured some coffee when it was ready and sat at the table. Furthermore, he opened the blue card folder and studied the papers that were inside. It was a copy of Katie’s personnel file and although there wasn’t a lot in the file, yet it gave him the basics. Besides, Brody would be here later, and he would find out everything else. John Brody was an investigator that had worked for Simon many times in the past. His specialty was covert surveillance and information gathering. If you wanted to find out some dirt about someone the only thing Brody needed to know was the required depth. Simon called his driver and told him he would be ready to leave in 10 minutes and went back upstairs to finish dressing. He left the house when he saw the car pull up in front, Jim opened the door for him and he got in. The ride to the office took less than 15 minutes and once out of the car he told Jim to take the rest of the day off as he wouldn’t need him. Simon went into reception and the security officer from the day before greeted him and opened the lift. Simon thanked him and got inside. He rode up to the third floor and walked across to his office. Gail his PA was already at her desk; they exchanged pleasantries then Simon told her that he was not available to anyone today. He desperately wanted to call Katie to his office and tell her what a bitch she was and that he was going to make her life as miserable as she had made his, however, he held back. He wanted to see what Brody could find out about her past since he’d left town all those years ago; he was sure that there would be something he could use to get his revenge. At 9.30 he called Danny and told him to send Katie up with some sandwiches and coffee, he decided to try and lull her into a false sense of security by pretending he didn’t remember anything. By the time Danny and the others who worked in the kitchen arrived Kate had gotten most things prepared. She had needed the distraction today, the worries of Tiffany, and then what Matthew might do next were always there, but now Simon was back, and she wasn't sure what to expect from him. He was nothing like the fat kid he had been, in fact he had really grown up nicely. She couldn't help but notice how good-looking he was. She would try to keep well away from him. Furthermore, she had been so horrible to him, she was so ashamed of her behavior, but she didn't know how to even begin to make it up to him. She wasn't surprised when Danny told her to take some sandwiches and coffee up to the third floor. Furthermore, she had a feeling if there was any running around to do she would be the one doing it. Furthermore, she didn't mind, but she wished she didn't feel such dread every time she headed up there. The door to his office was closed, but Gail assured her it was alright for her to go on in. She knocked and waited, then on his call she entered, careful not to spill any of the liquid." Good morning Mr Williams" she said softly, suddenly feeling like the fly waiting for the spider to pounce. When he heard the knock at the door he stopped reading and put all the papers back into their folder just as Katie walked in with tray of food and drink.“Good morning” he replied “Katie, isn’t it?” He asked as he cleared a space for her to put the tray down.“So how are you settling in?” he asked with an air of a concerned employer, but before she could answer he continued.”You know you look so familiar; I could swear we have met somewhere before.” Then just to make her stomach tighten.“Did we go to school together by any chance? I grew up here you know?” Katie carried the tray in, careful to place it on the desk without spilling a drop. She was very nervous around him, all the nasty things she had called him at school seemed to rush through her mind and she felt her insides churning. She had been so nasty back then, she had learned a harsh lesson from Matthew, she would never treat anyone so horribly again." Yes Sir, Katie" she said softly, "it's a good place to work Sir, Danny and the others in the kitchen are a good team. I really enjoy it there." She told him, hoping he didn't remember her. What he said next panicked her, she felt her body grow cold. He recognized her, he knew. She was sure of it. She wouldn't lie though, she would tell him the truth." Yes, we did go to school together" she said softly, "we went to Highland Primary School and then St. Hilda's Secondary" she told him, suddenly wishing she was anywhere but here. Simon smiled at her." You know, I don't remember much about my time at Highland and I only really remember a few people from St Hilda's. I seem to remember that there were lots of little cliques, and you were either in or out!" He sat down behind his desk; he enjoyed watching her face as her expression changed. He imagined what was going through her mind, imagined the fear of losing her job. No, that would be too easy, that would be an act of kindness compared to what this bitch deserved. He broke out of his thoughts and looked at the food." That looks great, just what I need to fill the gap. Thanks, Katie" he pulled the plate of sandwiches closer "I have an open door policy; if any of my staff want to talk to me then I am always happy to oblige. So if you need to have a chat about work or anything just let Gail know, and she will get you an appointment to see me." As she was leaving the roof his mobile phone beeped, he'd received a text message. He read it and smiled.' Arrived early - can meet this afternoon if available. Brody'He finished the sandwich, picked up the folder and left his office telling Gail that he would be unavailable for the rest of the day. Emotions ran wild through her as she stood before him. Was he telling the truth? Did he really not remember? She wasn't sure, she knew she had made his life a misery, but she couldn't risk apologizing, not now, she couldn't lose this job. She enjoyed it here, and she needed the money. When he dismissed her she nodded and left quietly, surprised at how much she was shaking as she got in the lift, heading back to the kitchen. She was feeling so awful, she had been so nasty, she wanted to make it up to him, but she was too afraid. What if he didn't believe her? Back in the kitchens she got to work, chopping salad and preparing for lunch. But her mind was else where, the knife was sharp and as she sliced an onion it slipped, slicing through her fingers. She gasped, watching as the red of her blood flowed across the white onion. "Damn" she muttered, turning to the sink and running her fingers under the cold water. She hadn't been paying attention, and now she had cut herself badly. What would Danny say? She wondered if Simon would hear of this? And if he would care? Why was that important to her? She had no idea, but she knew she was confused by him. And her own feelings. Guilt was a powerful emotion. He sent a text to Brody as he walked from the front doors of the office building.' Will not wait! Meeting URGENT!! On my way now.' He got to the corner of the street and stopped a passing black cab telling the driver to take him to the premier inn. Danny heard Katie shout and came out of his office to see what had happened. He could see the blood on the chopping block and rushed over to the sink where Katie was running her fingers under the water." Are you all right Love?" He asked concern crossing his face; when he saw the cuts he called to one of the commit chef's to get a first-aider."looks deep, we might need to take you down the casualty department." He got a clean tea towel and wrapped it round her hand whilst waiting for the first-aider. Furthermore, he could see she was looking a bit shocked." Don't worry pet, accidents happen, and you've done most of the prep work already, so there's nothing to worry about." He laughed "I'll just have to come out and get me hands dirty." He said with a smile. The first-aider arrived and said that in her opinion Katie should go to casualty and arranged to take her there. Katie really didn't want to go to A&E, but she was given no choice. The first-aider guided her to her car and drove her to A&E. Three hours later she was back. Her fingers had needed three, four and three stitches. She wasn't allowed to get them wet, she had been advised to not do anything strenuous for the rest of the day. She sighed as she walked in, seeing Danny helping with the clearing up." I'm back" she called, waving a heavily bandaged left hand at him and the others. Danny looked round at her and smiled cheerily, he walked over to her to inspect the dressing.“Welcome back pet” he said “so what’s the verdict? Will they have to be amputated?” he laughed and after looking at the dressing said.“You won’t be able to do a great deal of the mile-en-place or food service with that bandage on, but there is a lot of stock that needs to be audited; a lot of the canned goods are still boxed. So if you feel up to putting some cans on the shelves in the store room at least you won’t miss time from work! But first.” He said pointing to his office. “We need to fill out an accident report.” He led her into his office and realized that he had left the petty cash box on the desk. He took a small bunch of keys from the shelf and used one to lock the box than another to unlock a small cupboard to put the box in returning the keys to the shelf once the door was locked. Furthermore, he picked up the accident report book and started filling in the details with Katie. Simon met the investigator Brody at the hotel, he has him the copy of Katie’s employment file. His instructions to Brody were simple.“Find out everything you can about her! If she has fleas I want to know what size bra they wear!” After giving Brody an advance in cash he returned to his office where Gail informed him that there had been an accident in the kitchen. The girl that brought the tea up earlier had cut her fingers rather badly and Danny had sent her to A&E. He suppressed the urge to smile and asked that he be kept informed about the incident. Katie didn't take any notice of Danny putting the petty cash box away, she just sat down and waited for him to find the accident report book. She filled in the sheet, explaining what happened and what the hospital had said. She was quite happy about doing the stock, things did need sorting out, and she knew with lunch almost upon them, she was the only one who had time on her hands. The storage cupboard was large, the light over head was a power saving one. Tinned and packet food were arranged on shells, boxes set on the floor ready for opening and placing. She knew this would be a long job, there were a lot of boxes and a lot of space to be filled up. No one had had a chance to actually do this before the building opened. It had all been a bit of a rush. The afternoon passed quickly, before she knew it the kitchen was quiet, voices were gone, and she glanced at her watch. It was gone 5, she had spent all afternoon in the cupboard. She stretched, looking around with a sense of pride, the place looked good, everything was in its place and the shelves were full now. Switching off the light she closed and locked the door, returning the key to Danny's desk. He was nowhere to be seen. She walked out into the kitchen looking at tomorrow's food plan, she glanced at where food was put to thaw from the freezer, no one had got out the beef for the Cottage Pie, she shook her head, and quickly got the beef mince out, placing it in the thawing rack. Then she left, making sure the kitchen was locked up safe. Simon sat in his office feeling pleased with himself; he had set the wheels in motion that would give him power over a childhood nightmare. Brody would have his report back within 5 days so until then all he could do was wait. It was nearly 5 so he decided to leave, he called for his car and 10 minutes later he was standing out the front of the office as Jim pulled up. Simon looked across to the staff turnstile where he saw Katie just about to go through the turnstile. He got in the car and told Jim to go round the side to where the staff came onto the road from the car park. When the car stopped he got out and called across to Katie and waited for her to come over.“Gail told me that you’d had an accident earlier; are you alright?” He looked at her bandages.“Listen I can give you a lift home, if you’d like it’s no trouble, in fact it would break up the monotony. I don’t really know that many people round here yet.” He was scheming already. He knew he should wait till Brody delivered the report to him, however, he wanted to get her into his confidence; as he saw it she would have farther to fall in she had started to get used to his ‘nice’ side.“So, how about it? Can I offer you a lift home?” Katie wasn't paying attention as she walked out, it was a chilly day, and she had her jacket pulled up high, zipped up tight. She sighed as she approached the turnstiles. She wasn't expecting a large back car to stop, nor Simon to lower the window and speak to her. Furthermore, she looked at him, nervously aware of their past even if he wasn't." Oh, a lift?" she said, looking up at the sky, it looked as if there was a storm brewing, and it would take her about half an hour to get home. "If...if you don't mind, I'm over in the Clarkson Estate" she said softly, ashamed of her bleak block of flats. She had lost everything in the divorce, Matthew had taken her to the cleaners, she would be paying the costs for years to come. Simon opened the door for her and closed it after she got in.“Of course I don’t mind, it’s the least I can do after you managed to become one of the walking wounded.” He turned to the driver “Jim do you know the way to the Clarkson Estate?” Jim nodded and said he knew the direction and “If the young lady could just direct me to the exact block we’ll be there in no time at all.” They sat off and Simon started to chat to Katie but all the time thinking of ways that he could assist Brody. She would need to remain at work so she would be out of the house; that would allow Brody to have a look around inside for letters and things like that. He looked at her hand again.“Has Danny managed to sort you out with some light work? I can imagine that the dressing would pose a problem in a food environment.” He looked thoughtful “Do you have any other skills? I might be able to find some way of keeping you at work away from the kitchens till the dressing comes off, I can imagine the last thing you need right now is to be off work without pay.” She smiled, keeping to her side of the seat, she didn't want him to think she was wanting any more than a lift from him. She directed Joe, telling him which block she was in. Furthermore, she knew it was a rough area, but she couldn't afford much more." I'm fine in the kitchens, there's plenty of things for me to do beside food work" She said to him, "I spent the time in the cupboard today" she said, then frowned as her phone trilled. She gave him an apologetic look and pulled it out. It was her daughter again. She answered it." Hello love"Mum, I need that money has you got it yet?she demanded to know, her voice harsh and cold. Katie felt on the edge of tears." Look love, I'll have it at the end of next week when I get paid" she said. I need it now!! Dad said you would let me down!!" I haven't let you down. It's the middle of the month, I have already paid out for new school uniform." She sighed, looking at Simon. I don't care, I just need that money. God, you are useless. I wonder why dad even bothered with you! With that she ended the call and left Katie feeling totally bruised. She wanted to cry. But she couldn't. She looked at Simon, "sorry about that. Teenagers." But she was upset by the call. Simon noticed that she was keeping to the other side of the car but said nothing. He was actually impressed when she said she had plenty of jobs she could do in the kitchens that didn’t involve food. He even found himself suppressing a laugh when she said she’d been in a cupboard all day. Her phone rang, and he could hear the voice of the teenage girl on the other end, shrill and nasty in the way only teenagers can be. She ended the call and Simon could see that she was hurt by the words. Somewhere in the depths of his mind he slapped himself out of it, and he thought to himself ‘see that’s what it feels like when some bastard spoils your day with a few well-chosen words.’“I’m sorry Katie; I never married, so I really don’t have that much experience with children at all. Look do you need an advance? I can square that away for you if it would help. I don’t like to see people upset especially if there’s a way that I can help.” He put his hand in his pocket and took out his wallet, sorted out some notes and held them out to Katie.“Don’t worry it’s not a loan or favor or anything; it should see you through till you get paid. I’ll get payroll to deduct it from your first month’s salary. Will £500 be enough?” Katie smiled at his offer of an advance. "No, honestly, I can do it, I don't want to start taking money before I get it" she told him, "I will sort it, she just has to realize I'm not the person her father has painted me to be. I was once, but I've changed a lot in the years, I have learned what It's like too." she paused, "look thanks for the offer, but no. I can manage" she said, trying to sound cheerful and confident. When all she wanted to do was cry." Look Mr Williams, Simon, I... I was horrible to you at school. And I am sorry about that" she said, the car stopped at lights and she opened the door. "Sorry, I am really sorry" with that she stepped out into the rain, looking back at him. "I'll see you tomorrow" then she turned and walked towards home, feeling as if she was alone. She had no one who cared for her, no one who worried. Her emotions crashed in, and she felt tears on her cheeks. She deserved this, she deserved to be treated so badly by her daughter. She had done it to Simon many years ago. Furthermore, she regretted it, she liked him, but guilt was a powerful emotion to shake. Simon was quite surprised by the fact the was keen to keep her independence. Her desire to prove that she was a different person to the one her daughter thought she was seemed out of place to what he remembered of her. She never used to care what anybody thought.“Jim, drive the car to her house and wait for me there.” He leaned forward. “Pass me back the umbrella please.” He stepped out of the car, opened the umbrella and hurried to catch up with Katie. When he caught up with her, he reached out and touched her forearm.“Hey there, did you think I’d just let you get soaked through in all this rain?” He made sure that the umbrella was covering both of them. “Listen Katie I don’t know what you meant back there about being nasty to me at school I really can’t remember much about my life back then. Since you’ve apologized then I suggest that it is over and done with. Ok?” He hoped that was convincing; there was something about her lack of venom that was disarming. She had really changed since they were at school, no more the haughty cow that had tormented him. Still that wasn’t enough to make him change his mind she was going to get paid back for every last little thing she’d done to him.“Look there’s a café over there let’s go get something to eat and some coffee; if you feel like it, you can tell me all about it” He took a gentle grip on her elbow and started to steer her to the entrance. “No objections! And please don’t make a fuss I wouldn’t want anyone to think I was abducting you and call the Police.” She was surprised when Simon reappeared. He wasn't going to give up she realized. She actually liked that. Maybe he did care about her. She was cold by now, her coat was soaked, and she may as well be bare-footed the good her shoes were doing. She wasn't sure he was being truthful, how could he not remember it? Furthermore, she remembered one day they were having swimming lessons. They were ;lucky enough have a pool at school, and they were in it one day when she dived under the water and pulled his trunks down, waving them around for the whole class to see."Oh, look fatty's lost his trunks" she had taunted him, throwing them around to her friends before the teacher had made her give them back. She hated it now, she was ashamed of herself, but if he had forgotten, she would let it rest." I...ok then, a coffee" she said, "and right now being abducted sounds like a wonderful idea. At least no one would know where I was and get hold of me." She told him, hurrying across the road to the small café. He laughed at her comment about being kidnapped; she was funny when she was trying to divert attention. They entered the café, and he ushered her to a table and after taking her wet coat from her, he held the chair out whilst she sat down. He restrained himself as the urge to pull it away at the last moment was quite strong. ‘Later’ he thought ‘her time will come.’ He asked Katie what she would like then he hung her coat on the rack then went to the counter and ordered. He came back to the table with 2 cups of white coffee and sat down.“I should be a waiter” he laughed “see? I didn’t spill any.” He put one cup down in front of her and sat down.“Do me a favor please? Would you switch your phone off for 10 minutes? You look as if you are carrying the whole weight of the world on your shoulders.” He was going to have to tread carefully with her, he could see she was very insecure at the moment and would need boosting up. He had planned simply to get Brody to find out as much as possible about her and then use the information to humiliate her. Well from what he could see there would be no fun it that; at this moment it would be just another in a long line of kicks in the teeth.“Listen, I was thinking” he hesitated “now I know that this will sound a bit strange but just hear me out please. I don’t know anyone round here and to be honest I have spent a lot of my time just enjoying my own company.” He took a sip of his coffee.“I mean don’t think I haven’t had many opportunities to go out with girls; I just never felt serious enough to try.” The Cups that the coffee was served in had wide rims and as he had another sip he hoped she wouldn’t turn down his next offer.“I’ll get to the point; I’d like to ask you out to dinner. Tomorrow’s Friday and I have business meetings for most of the day, however, I should like it very much if you would join me for Dinner on Saturday evening.” He bit his tongue hard and managed to make his face go red from the effort hoping she would take it as embarrassment.“You won’t have to dress up to the nines, let’s just go somewhere and have a nice casual meal together. What do you say?” He thought he could see doubt in her face and thought she was going to say no.“I don’t bite” he said trying to lighten things up “not on first dates anyway.” He laughed and held out his hand to her.“Go on, say yes – you know you'd enjoy it.” Katie smiled as he took her coat and then held the chair out like the gentleman he seemed to be. She sat down, running her fingers through her hair in a nervous gesture. She asked for a cup of white coffee and watched as he went and bought it, carrying the two cups back to the table. She couldn't contain the chuckle that escaped her lips at his comment about being a waiter. Furthermore, she could not imagine him waiting on anyone. “I don't think waiting is quite your forte.” She teased him gently. His request to turn her phone off made her frown, but she reached into her bag and turned it off, he was helping her out, so it seemed only fair to turn the damned thing off. She had not been expecting an invitation to dinner. She felt a little ripple of fear hit her belly and she was ready to decline immediately, but his words made sense it was nothing romantic, just some old friends, if she could call them old friends, out for dinner.“Ok, I'll accept, but no where flashy, just a normal restaurant, like a Harvester, or a pub, I don't want anything fancy” she told him, looking down into her coffee cup. “I'm not into fancy things anymore” she said softly, a slight catch in her voice. She didn't take his hand. She had been there, done the swanky places. Furthermore, she didn't like them, she was a plain woman with plain tastes. Furthermore, she was curious why he was so interested in her? Furthermore, she wasn't anything special, she was just Katie. ‘I’m not into fancy things anymore’ Simon held those words and thought that the way she looked now you would never believe that she ever had.“The Harvester sounds fine to me; I’ll get Jim to collect you about 7.30 if that’s all right?” He could see that his plan would take a lot more work than he had first thought. She wasn’t going to be swayed so easily by his excessive wealth; he was going to have to get her back into ‘fancy things’. She needed to have her confidence boosted as it was practically on the floor at the moment; something or someone had dragged her down to these depths and for his plan to work Simon needed her to feel like she was the most important woman in his world. When they had nearly finished their coffee Simon got out his phone and called his driver. He told him to return to the shop to pick up Katie; he in the meantime would have a walk in the rain he needed to get some things from the local shops. As soon as the car was out of sight he hailed a black cab and headed for the Premier Inn and a meeting with Brody. Kate finished her coffee and smiled at him, "thank you, Simon" she said softly, grabbing her coat and standing, "I really appreciate this" she told him as she put her coat on. "I'll see you tomorrow" she said, heading out to the limo. She was dropped off home and spent a quiet night. She was so confused by her feelings. He was being so nice, she liked him, he was so nice and genuine. She knew she would have to protect her heart, he was the sort of man she could fall for and she really didn't want to do that. She couldn't bear another broken heart. Brody had proved very useful once again; Simon had found him to be an excellent snoop. The dossier that he had received from Brody brought him up to date with Katie’s current situation. Her ex-husband Mathew was a bit of a dick, and he would need to be put firmly in his place in a way that Katie would never believe that Simon could have anything to do with. The daughter Tiffany; well yeah she was a real diamond – pretty but hard; Simon would need to find a way to bring the daughter back on side with her mother. He left the hotel in a taxi and arrived back at the house. He let himself in and was halfway across the hall when his valet came through from his room.“Shall you be requiring something to eat sir?” he inquired. Simon looked at him and shook his head.“No, thank you, Travels, that will be all for tonight. I won’t require an evening meal tomorrow either I shall be dining out; you may take the evening to yourself.”“Very good sir, goodnight” He retired back to his quarters and Simon went through into his reading room and poured himself a Scotch. He sat down and began to read through the report in fine detail. He was going to make her feel like the most important woman in the world. Next morning dawned bright and sunny and Katie enjoyed the walk to work. She was kept busy sorting through paperwork and ordering stock. She really enjoyed that side of things, it was different to the food prep and cooking. It made a change. Dan seemed happy with her work and that was important to Katie. She wondered what Simon was up too. He had said he was busy all day with meetings. So she waited to hear from him. She wasn't sure how she felt, she couldn't let her emotions get caught up in this. That would be asking for trouble. Simon had a busy schedule on Friday which meant that he was office bound till well after 7.30 pm. Business was business, and he had let things slip for the last few days. He told Gail to go at 5.30 and finished up drafting a PowerPoint presentation for staff members at a Security firm that he was about to acquire. At 7.40 he called Jim to come collect him. It had been a long day, and he was surprised that when his mind started wandering it was heading in Katie’s direction; not always negatively either. He would find himself thinking that she was actually quite attractive it was just the fact that life had not been good to her since she left school. If she had some money spent on her appearance she would be a real looker. Then it was time to go at last he felt as if the day would never end. When he arrived home he had a light supper and went straight to bed with the beginnings of a headache; too much time spent in front of the computer screen. Next morning he was up at 7am and went for a run. He hadn’t been outrunning for the last 2 weeks and decided he needed to get back into his daily routine before it fell away completely. He remembered the area quite well from his childhood and set off towards the park. Furthermore, he went round the park perimeter once and then headed along the canal. It was a nice morning and there was hardly anyone about except for the odd fisherman on the canal bank. He was lost in his run with music drumming in his head from his MP3 player, and before he realized it he had crossed town and was on the Clarkson Estate. He hadn’t realized how rough the area had become. There were empty flats which had been vandalized, graffiti on walls and the underpasses looked like places to avoid. He carried on at a jog for a little while when a young man stepped out from a garage with a broken door.“You lost?” He asked Simon “Only we don’t get many joggers round here; it’s not safe you see!” Simon looked at him as he took his earphones out and became aware of another man coming up behind him.“No I know exactly where I am, and I haven’t seen anything, yet that would make me presume that I were in Danger!”“Oh Lord, listen to him talk John; doesn't he sound posh.” The man behind him sniggered. Simon noticed behind the man in the garage door there was a girl lying on an old mattress; she looked about 17 or 18.“I wonder if he has anything nice he’d like to share with us John. Ask him nicely ask him nicely for me please.” At that the man behind Simon put his hand on Simon’s right shoulder, but Simon was moving before he got a grip. Simon ducked down taking the man’s hand with his left he spun under his arm and pulled his hand up into his armpit.“Yes” he said “go on John ask me nicely!” With that he swung forward taking ‘John’ with him, he dropped his weight down and pulled his arm back catapulting the guy into the tarmac face first. There was a dull thud as his face hit the deck and his nose split. He howled in pain spitting out broken teeth from a smashed mouth; blood spilled everywhere. Simon rotated his arm and forced his head back onto the ground stepping on it for good measure.“I didn’t catch your name; however, John here doesn’t want to play your game anymore. In fact if I push just a little harder John’s neck will break, and he won’t be doing anything anymore!” Simon took his foot from the man’s head and kicked the back of his elbow eliciting another howl of pain. Mr Nameless just shrunk back into the shadows of the garage, so Simon left them to it and ran on. He got off the estate as quickly as he could and made his way back home. He arrived back at 8.30 and headed straight for the shower instructing Travels that the clothes he was wearing were to be burned in the incinerator. After showering, he came down to breakfast deciding to spend the rest of the day listening to music whilst going over some more paperwork. At 6’m he went and showered shaved and got ready to go out. He decided that it would be prudent if he accompanied Jim back to the Clarkson to pick up Katie. At 7.25 they arrived and Simon went to the door to let her know they were there. 5.30 couldn't come quick enough for Katie. She was constantly watching the hands as they made their way slowly round the dial. Finally at 5.30 she left, hurrying back to her place. She showered, had a coffee whilst she painted her nails and then took forever deciding what to wear. She didn't want to look too 'done up', she wanted to look normal, nice but normal. Her hair was washed, and she dried it then straightened it. It hung sleekly down her back and she smiled as she moved her head, loving the way her hair moved like a curtain of dark glimmering material. She slipped on a smart knee-length skirt, a pale purple blouse that had a lacy panel across the back. She had not had the chance to wear anything so nice for a long while. Furthermore, she didn't put on any tights or stockings, the weather was warm enough that she didn't need to.Makeup was something she didn't worry about often, but tonight she put on a little eyeliner, making her eyes stand out, she applied some color to her eyelids and a touch of mascara finished off her eyes. A brush of blusher and she was done, apart from a dash of lipstick, but she wouldn't do that until later, she would only lick it off. At 7.10 the doorbell rang and she frowned. Wondering who it could be. She answered the door and saw her daughter standing there with a friend, Katie nearly groaned, Miranda was not a nice girl, and when Tiffany got with her, she turned into the devil's child." Tiff, Miranda, I wasn't expecting you tonight." She said softly, not letting them enter, she knew if she did they would never leave. The look Tiffany gave her made her gulp, she hated the way the girl made her feel. "You're going out? You look like a tart" she said, "so where's my money, if you're able to go out you can give me what I need for school." she demanded, pushing past her mum." I would have said a whore" Miranda said as she past Katie, "a cheap one at that" Tiffany giggled and Katie felt her heart freeze as the girls sat down in the small front room." I have a date, you can't stop" she told them, walking in and looking at Tiffany. "How many times have I asked you to ring me before you come round?" she said, her ex was always moaning at her about just turning up, but the courtesy wasn't extended to her. Tiffany could just arrive when she felt like it.' You? A date?" There was that tone again, Miranda snickered, "I thought you were too old for things like that." She said to her, making Katie feel as if she was a few inches tall. The time was quarter past now, she had to get rid of them in the next 15 minutes, 5 if she could. But she knew that look on her daughter's face. She was going to make her life a living hell. The time moved on slowly, every minute was painful, a humiliating event where her daughter took the utmost pleasure in hurting and upsetting her. When the bell rang at 7.25 she was close to tears. Both girls had done everything they could to make her feel insignificant. Tiffany had learned well from her father it seemed." Oh look, its lover boy." Tiff said"Wonder if he's had his eyes tested recently?" Miranda replied, totally ignoring Katie as she fought her control and made her way to the door." I bet his fat, bald and ugly" Tiffany called, judging it just as she opened the door." He certainly can't have any taste. I mean your mum is just an old tramp if what your dad says is true." Katie looked at Simon, "I can't go out" she said softly, her eyes full of tears, "my dear daughter and her friend decided to drop in." she told him, barely able to contain her upset... Simon climbed the stairs quickly and got to the front door but just before he pushed the doorbell he could hear voices inside. He stooped and put his ear close to the keyhole to hear better and was angry with the conversation from within. ‘Fat, bald and ugly’ he thought, ‘you sound like a right bitch.’(had given him a good layout of the flat’s floor-plan, and he recalled it as he pressed the bell-push. Simon heard that it was one of the loudmouthed girls coming to the door so he stood to the side so that only she would see him upon opening the door. He wanted to say ‘I’m going to carve your face up with a Stanley knife you acid mouthed little cunt!’ loud enough, so only Miranda could hear as he made a sign of cutting his throat with his thumb, however,“Hello” he said in a normal cheerful voice, “I’m Simon; is Katie there?” Simon strode past the wide-mouthed Miranda as if she wasn’t there and sized up the situation quickly. He kept a straight face when Katie said she couldn’t go out.“That’s a shame Jim doesn’t get the chance to drive the Bentley very often he gets fed up with the Rolls-Royce.” Simon smiled. “He cleaned it out specially.” He leaned against the door frame effectively blocking Miranda in the hallway and made no move to allow her past when she tried to get back in. Simon looked at Katie’s daughter she was a pretty teenager, a bit heavy-handed on the make-up but otherwise as Brody had described her.“It seems a shame if we can’t all do something good tonight so I have an idea. I’m sure that there are lots things that Tiffany and her friend could be doing rather than sitting here all night, so I propose some choices. One – we could all go out together and have a meal. Two – I could phone for take-out and send Jim off to buy a DVD or something. Or Three – I could get Jim to drop you girls off at the cinema and pay for you to get in to see a film. Plus I could even stretch to some spending money for pop, snacks and a taxi home. What do you think Tiffany? Anything sound good to you?” This was the first time he had ever tried to apply business logic to a teenager, and he wasn’t sure if it would work. However, if this young lady was as avaricious as she sounded on the phone to her Mother then she might just go for the choice that offered some money at the end of it. He expected the worst though and waited for Tiffany to refuse. Tiffany had to agree that her mum had taste. Where had an old trout like her found a man like this? And he had money. In fact, she could smell it, he stank of wealth. She had better play her cards right here, maybe if she changed her tone towards mummy she would get something out of this dude, he didn't seem to have much clue, he seemed a bit like a nerd. And he was willing to spend money on the two of them. Miranda looked at Tiffany, Tiffany looked back and they both grinned." We don't want to cramp you're style, though I am sure you could have found someone better than my mum, I mean come on that's scraping the bottom of the barrel a little don't you think?" She said to him, throwing her mum a look that said I'll win him over and then ruin your life even more. Miranda giggled and Katie wanted the floor to open up and swallow her. When had Tiff become such a bitch?" We don't want to stay in this dump, so we'll would like to take option 3, movies, money for snacks and taxi home. We haven't gotta be back till 11, dad has Mel round so we are giving him some space. She's lovely, just like a mum to me." Another slap in the face for Katie, she turned and headed to the kitchen. She loved the daughter, but right now she really didn't like her much. Tears filled her eyes as she stood at the sink, hands each side and head bowed, she would not cry. This was her night, how dare Tiffany spoil things for her in this way. She wondered what Simon thought of her. When had Tiff turned so very nasty? He saw the look on Tiffany’s face when he walked into the room, and it disturbed him in light of her age. The smile on her face and the way she arched one eye-brow was disconcerting. Then she said that they would take up his offer of money.‘Gotcha!’ Simon was pleased that his pitch had worked. He was sure now that he would be able to get Tiffany and her loudmouthed friend to do what he wanted with the flash of his wallet. Tiffany would be smarter from now on in all probability; she was just surprised this time around. However, enticed with cash these girls might make useful tools in the days to come as he started to get his revenge on Katie. After all even though Tiffany was being a bitch to Katie it was obvious that Katie still loved her.“Great, I’ll tell you what – why don’t you both go down to the car and wait for us?” Simon ignored the comments that she had made about her mother and her home. He watched as Katie went into the kitchen and when she was out of sight he took out his wallet and pulled out two £50 notes handing one to each of the girls.“That should cover the night, and I’ll still pick up the cost of the tickets. Now off you go I’ll tell my driver you’re coming down, and he’ll be waiting for you.” When they had left Simon called Jim and told him to expect the girls then he went through to the kitchen to where Katie was standing by the sink.“I won’t pretend to understand what just happened there; not being a father I missed out on teenage girl psychology 101.” He put his hands on her shoulders and gently turned her round to face him. He smiled weakly.“Listen if you want to change our plans for tonight that’s fine, but I think that you’d be letting the girls know they beat you if you stay in. Let’s go out and show them that we ARE going to have a wonderful time!” Katie loved her daughter. She had been such a cute little girl, but now she was her father's daughter in every way. Her ex-husband had talked to her like that, he had called her names, made her feel useless and insignificant. She wanted to crawl into a dark place and cry. When Simon came in she was really not in a mood to go out. She wanted to hide away, from him and everyone. She deserved this, she had been so horrible when she was younger that everything that happened to her was deserved. She heard him come into the kitchen, his hands on her shoulders were firm and warm. Furthermore, she turned to face him, her eyes red, the look of defeat evident in them. "I don't know what I did wrong?" she whispered, leaning her forehead on his chest. "I haven't the strength to do this much longer" she admitted, feeling suddenly ready to throw everything in. She didn't want to go out, she wanted to be alone. But what he said made sense, she couldn't let them win, she had to find some energy from somewhere."OK, but I can't promise that I'll be very good company" She said to him.***Tiffany and Miranda couldn't believe their luck. The guy had given them 50 quid each." You so have to tell your dad about this new guy. He isn't going to like it." Miranda said to Tiff." I know, he'll do something to break them up. Dad hates mum, he says she ruined his life. He will make sure she suffers. I'll tell him that he needs to do something, or she will ruin this other guy."" Yeah, your sums just a money grabbing whore. She's probably got loads of money hidden away. I bet she's scheming to take him for everything she can get." They continued on chatting, walking outside and stopping when they saw the car. The driver held the door open for them, and they both giggled. "Maybe I can seduce this guy, take him from mum, she doesn't deserve him. And I do." she whispered to Miranda as they slipped into the luxury of the back of the car." Yes, mum isn't right for this. But me, oh go dyes, this is the life I want." Tiffany told Miranda and the girls agreed, they would mess up her life. Tiff knew her dad would help her... Now Jim wasn’t as green as he was cabbage looking. After Simon got off the phone to him, he started the voice recorder in the back of the car. Now either his hearing was good or the girls weren’t being as quiet as they thought they were because Jim heard most of their conversation. Simon smiled at Katie “Good company, bad company. Just give it a chance – the night is but young.” He stood back. “Now then let’s have no more of the crying and putting yourself down. We’ll drop the girls off at the cinema and the sky’s the limit. I really feel like cheering you up tonight, and I won’t be put off.” He waited patiently whilst Katie finished getting ready. He managed to send a text to Brody ‘find out as much as possible about daughter and friend Miranda, full jacket within 48 hours.’ He knew that Brody would come up with the goods he had never failed him yet. Katie reappeared after fixing her face and Simon smiled at her. They headed for the door and Katie locked it on the way out. They got to the car and Jim opened the door for them. Jim winked at Simon which he took as a sigh that Jim had some information for him. Once they were all in the back of the car Jim drove off to the Odeon, a 10 screen cinema complex in town. The girls spent most of the ride sniggering and whispering to each other. Once they arrived Simon sent Jim to the box office with the girls to pay for their tickets. Simon turned to Katie “Alone at last.” He laughed and thought he saw a smile in the darkness. “Where would you like to go then my Lady?” He asked “Because I have a night planned for you that will be beyond your wildest dreams.” Jim returned to the driver’s seat and said that “the young ladies were now seated and happily awaiting the start of the film.” Without waiting for instructions he drove off and within 5 minutes they arrived at the Tower Hotel. The Tower was a 5-star hotel with 3 different dining rooms and a small but high-class shopping mall. Simon saw the look on Katie’s face as they arrived and Jim opened the door. “Don’t worry, I know the owner.” He said as he offered her his hand to assist her from the car. Jim got back in the car and drove off whilst Simon, still holding Katie’s hand let her to the entrance foyer. Once inside he headed towards the ‘West Wing’ restaurant and was greeted by the maître d'’ “how may I help you Sir?” he inquired. Simon answered “I have a table reserved for 2 in one of the side booths.”“I am sorry Sir I cannot let you in; we have a dress code you see.” Simon looked at him and said “You do know who I am?” The other man paled slightly and said “I am sorry Sir, these are the house rules that you set down yourself, and you know I cannot make an exception.” Simon smiled “Don’t look so worried Pierre, you are absolutely correct.” He turned to Katie and said “Oh well I can see we need to go to the mall and get ourselves something nice to wear.”

Old Friends (kaz & Luther)|rating:3.0

All I Need is Your Soul

This is a Role-play between Minty Minx camp; Promethean Please do read and enjoy. {"Light box_close": "Close", "light box_next": "Next", "light box_previous": "Previous", "light box_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "light box_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "light box_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "light box_full_screen": "Full screen", "light box_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "light box_download": "Download", "light box_share": "Share", "light box_zoom": "Zoom", "light box_new_window": "New window", "light box_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"} Charmaine A small flutter sound echoed in the room. Shimmering wings catching the soft light of morning rays as the little fairy turned. Letting out a small squeak before she fell back into her slumber. The man looming over her a small insect cage rattled it. "Wake up." He growled. When the small creature inside did not stir he rattled it louder. "You fucking insect, wake up. I need your magic." The man growled and still the red-headed fairy did not move. He snarled in frustration as it had been this way for weeks. She was hardly every awake, saying something about a soul contract, magic waning. He wanted to hear none of it. If she count give him her magic she was useless, broken. He growled as he crossed the room once more. He needed her gone, evidence that he had stolen her from another realm erased. After all fairies weren't meant to be in this world. Not for long. Not a single soul really knew much about fairies here. She had been kept within a cage made of iron, unable to leave like she wanted. Used like a tool. Her magic was in a way unlimited, unusual and rare. She was after all of royal blood in her world. Yet she was treated like a vermin only good for granting wishes. The bottom of her cage cover in thick soft grass that felt like cloud and smelt of honeydew. Small ferns grew and other plants that should never have been able to in the small iron cage. Charmaine had done so to make it comfortable. Her new home and had been for years. Charmaine had grown tired, exhausted after expending herself so often, and so she had to sleep as he magic got weak. This dark man just yelled at her, when she count do the magic he wanted. As if she could control that. FAE magic was strongest in the FAE Wilds, not in this realm. So her magic was struggling, she hadn't been home. It drained her to use as much magic as he wanted. So she had offered a solution of giving him her soul. A connection to this world would make her magic stronger. She hadn't even gotten past the soul part and the man had smacked her to the ground. Weak and bruised she decided she'd just sleep. The dark man grumbled, and he threw a cloth over the iron cage and Charmaine was jostled. The little FAE glanced over at the covered bars and her eyes narrowed. For the first time Charmaine pushed up from the grass sitting on her knees, palms in the grass as she glanced around. What was he doing? She dug her fingers into the grass to hold on as she was jostled once more. The FAE had been set down, left on a porch somewhere. She sat for a bit and not other sounds came out from beyond the cloth. So Charmaine went back to sleep. She hardly noticed when she was picked up, just curled within the grass, sleeping. The cage was sat down and the little FAE stirred, but what really woke her was the removal of the cloth. She stirred, her little body stretching before she sat up on her knees and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. The new face that greeted her was not the dark man. No, this one was different. His eyes seemed bright, gentle. Maybe not so gentle. She wasn't sure. Yet she didn't mind his stare, he was not the same as the dark man. Her body was bare, decorate in tattoos, small frail chains and ribbons, but it did nothing to hide her freckled nudity. She stood and approached the edge of the cage, staring up at him as her small wings fluttered softly. "Hello." Came the small chiming voice of the little FAE as she stared up at her new owner. . Code by Promethean. . James Leviathan. It's often believed that those who grow up with everything they want to turn out spoiled, ungrateful, and often. . . Never humble. But very few go on to speak on those who grow up their whole life without, starved of most things that are often taken for granted. This was James' life since he was a young boy. Having become an orphan at the age of twelve, his sea green eyes often looked upon others with envy. He was a scrawny boy and quiet. While he wasn't exactly feared, the rumors surrounding his arrival suggested to the others that they keep their distance. Being alone wasn't uncommon. James had spent his years from the age of three with his grandmother, locked away in her country home where he studied under her and rarely was allowed the chance to make friends of his own. The act of making friends seemed lost on him, and he rather blended into the background, his nose in a book or aimlessly sketching away. Never the type to scream 'Look at me' in a room full of people. It was no wonder he was often overlooked by parents. . . bright-eyed newlyweds looking to complete their perfect little family or the last hope for a potential mother who'd been broken time and time again. And when their eyes did cross his, it was not in the best of ways. The scar he bore that stretched across his left cheek and downwards was hard to ignore. The boy who lived was a magical tale spun for that of Harry Potter, but when talked about James Leviathan who somehow managed to escape the house fire that burned to the ground with his grandmother in it. . . There was a sort of eerie feeling that he seemed to evoke. He'd learn to outgrow that, finding that women were often attracted to the quiet types, the brooding boy dressed in black turtlenecks and who left doodles tacked to your locker. Yes, as he grew older, James found that he'd get nothing out of this world by continuing to be a wallflower. And it was at the encouragement of his teacher, who believed he had quite the talent for architecture, did he start to change the way he thought. Why shouldn't he be allowed the life he wanted? He should stop allowing his own mortality to be a curse, instead to embrace that he is fortunate for a second chance at a beautiful life, considering the darkness and turmoil that shrouded in childhood. Everything he wanted, all to which he thought he should never have or deserve could be his. And he was determined to make sure that he had any and everything that he wanted out of life. ______________​That was ten years ago. James often found it hard to look back on that young boy, lost and confused. . . So unsure of himself. What would he think of the man he was today? A confident smile stretched across his face as he read through his messages. Samantha missed him already. The words always came easy, sweet, and charming. . .hypnotizing even though the miles away. He was just returning from New York where he'd been on a work trip for the last two weeks. In the last six years, James had built quite the reputation for himself as one of the most successful and youngest architects. Since his debut into the world, he'd been sought out as his work was not only unique and beautiful. . . But one of a kind and original. His work seemed impossible on paper and yet somehow, James managed to always have an answer for it to be brought to life. It was nearly like magic. There was a lot about his life that seemed like magic. Like one day he awoke and all that he'd manifested had come true. He had a beautiful glass home, three stories outside the city and a thriving career. Any and everything that he wanted he could have, cars, jewelry, women. He didn't know the meaning of starve, of desire – what he wanted he got, and he protected it at all costs. He was proud of having his own, of trusting himself and his power; glad that he'd not broken the promise that he made to himself when he was eighteen. The black town car finally reached the end of the winding driveway before coming to a stop. James thanked his driver and stepped out, welcoming the crisp night air. There was nothing like being home. And, while he'd be plenty of friends drying to welcome him back with a night out, the long plane ride had definitely tuckered him out. The design of the house had gotten him featured in countless magazines and websites. When the blackout shades were drawn you had the perfect view inside, like living in a fishbowl. But, at some angles the house seemed to disappear. He was hounded by many millionaires and celebrities, even common folk wishing for a replica or simply for James to explain. . . Just how he did it. That of course was a secret which could never be revealed. While he grew to love his powers, he did still fear what came with it. He was haunted by his past, memories of his grandmother praying over him. There was just as much dark in James as there was light, maybe even more. That was the last thing he wanted to think about as he approached the inside. The doors had already been opened by the servants who were taking his bags to his room. Griselda welcomed him as she always did, with a glass of scotch and was prepared to catch him up on what he missed – starting with mail. He wished her a goodnight and made sure the house was locked up before heading toward his study where she left his things. He knew there was too much to sort through in one night and intended on checking in on it in the morning, but something caught his attention as he started to climb the stairs. There was a glowing coming from beneath the doors, and as he focused on it intently, he thought. . No, he knew he heard what sounded like a voice. Dark brows dented toward his forehead and after switching his glass to his left hand, he reached for the knob. The. . Package was hard to miss. The bell jar shape caught his eye first before he noticed the spoiled dark sheet over the item. He was surprised as Griselda would've mentioned something like this, though wondered if maybe it was some gift from a lover of his. Marigold. He sighed and brought the glass to his lips to take a sip. The ex-lover had not taken kindly to their breakup and having known James was a collector of the rarest and most beautiful things, this certainly would've been a way to catch his attention. She'd broken a very important rule of his thought and for that, he'd called off their arrangement. Smacking his lips against the warm spiced taste, he continued toward his desk in the middle of the room. James placed the glass on the table and reached for the lap, turning it on the second level. He warms brown glow gave little view to the bookshelves that lined the walls – some filled with different texts and others with the trinkets and rare collectibles: shadow boxes filled with butterflies of the rarest colorings, jewelry, and ancient scriptures and his most treasured being the items he'd collected detailing his family's history. Those, he kept in a glass dome locked. "My dear Mary," he said with a shake of his head. His hands brushed through his wavy locks before he pushed up the sleeves of the gray sweater he wore. Nimble digits reached the sheet and pulled it back. James, at first, wasn't sure what to think. Confused, he tilted his head and tried to make out the figure. . . What appeared to be some kind of doll. Imagine his shock as he grabbed the top of the cage to tilt it back and watched as the figure came to. He dropped it immediately, bending now from his towering height and itching his face closer to watch as the. . . Woman? As the woman made her way to the cage. Even in such dim lighting he could make out the bright red of her hair, and the ink that covered her body. "No," he said as she greeted him. He could see the exhaustion in her body, hear it in the low rasp of her voice. Fairies in their world were outright forbidden, and he knew all too well how jealous Marigold could get, this wasn't the kind of gift she would leave him. So then, why had she been dropped at his door? He swallowed thickly, refusing to cast this off as a means of exhaustion. As her large eyes blinked up at him, James couldn't deny that she was very much real. He'd realized then how silent he was. "I – hello." Whoever her handler was hard to know him, leaving her on anyone else's doorstep would've guaranteed she'd be dead by now. Fairies were heavily sought after for their magic and considering the legalities surrounding their presence in the mortal world. . . They did make for great gifts on the underground market. Having her was a responsibility, bigger than he dealt with in what he deemed a charming and perfectly easy life. But he was tempted, very tempted to keep her. There was no card, no note – nothing to give any clue to where she'd come from. But the more he gazed at her, the more enamored he became. As a man who loved to collect rare and beautiful things, he'd hit the jackpot. A small smile played on his face as he neared her again. James unlocked the cage, extending his hand out. "I am James. . . And you are?" code by Promethean Charmaine No? Charmaine stared at the man, her brows knitting in confusion. Why had he said no? Did he not want her to speak? The FAE felt her wings tighten. Her eyes dropping she took a step back. Unsure if she was wanted, she frowned. Being wanted was important. The fear of dying was coming ever closer. Maybe it was better to go back to sleep. She glanced back to her bed when suddenly his voice came again. This time he responded to her greeting. Charmaine turned back and looked at the man. Her smile was soft and bright. She bowed to him, letting him get a good law of her wings. They were nothing like how one would have expected. It was a happy mix between what people thought fairy wings looked like, bats wings and feathers. The shimmering green, silver and pin wings that seemed to sparkle, becoming invisible to the eye as the light caught it just right. She stood back up, looking to the jingling chains and ribbons, touching them absent-mindedly. She was getting tired again, her body screaming for rest. Furthermore, she let loose a yawn, ready to head back to her spot when the creak of the door opening had her head snapping back. Furthermore, she eyed him wearily. Not a soul had opened that door since she had been shoved in here. No, she had been trapped within this cage for years, made her own ecosystem to survive her neglect. She took a hesitant step forward. Eyes flicking to his hand, then back up to his face. Heart pounding in her chest as she reached forward. Her small hand reaching around the tip of his finger so she could hold herself steady. Char glanced at the iron bars before she took a step pass them and climbed into his palm. She stumbled at first, finding it hard to keep her balance, and so she sank to her knees. She held tightly to his thumb, as if he would let her fall without a second thought. Charmaine half expected to find his hand wrap around her and squeeze her while threatening to hurt her. She was so used to threats and violence, it would not take her by surprise anymore. Her wings tucked extremely tight to her body, safely away. Her body was like a frozen body had just climbed into his hand. She held not a single ounce of warmth she should have. Like a corpse, her pale skin was an odd color. A sickly mix between gray, lilac and spots of yellow. She looked like death up close, the shimmering charm of her wings had died down. They were lack luster for a fairy. She should have been bright, active, and yet she looked as if she was dying, because... well she was. Her magic fought for life and her life span was being cut short due to being stuck here for so long. The voice that rumbled at her had Charmaine feeling wide awake. She glanced up at the human, curling tighter against his thumb. "My name is Charmaine. You may call me char or even charm. Or if you don't like those you may call me whatever you desire.", The little FAE shifted as her little chimed voice rang over his ears. Soft enough it was almost as if she shouldn't have been heard. "My last owner called me insect or pest, if you prefer those." She admitted, despite the distaste that colored her tone as she spoke them. She was neither of those AMD the intention behind those cruel words was always very clear to Charmaine. The FAE felt better now that she was no longer suffocating from the iron that caged her. His skin was warm, comforting and... wait. She glanced down as she felt his blood rush in his veins. There was magic, and she no longer felt drained. Her hand smoothed over his palm when she realized that she had released his thumb to follow the veins she blushed from head to toe in embarrassment. "I apologize. I've never met a mage before. You make the pain go away." Another small confession to the large human. After all, she was dying. Why should she hide anything. If he asked, she would answer, so long as she wasn't sleeping. As if her body knew, she slipped to lay against his palm as her wing curled to make her body cozy against him. She turned her face to gaze up at him and a small giggle echoed through the air. Small bell like chimes, unusual and pleasant. "You are easier on the eyes than my last owner." She smiled up as him as her red locks spread across his skin. Wings like soft velvet and her skin like silk. Char's eyes grew heavy and she closed them. It felt so nice on his palm. She felt oddly safe. She probably shouldn't have. .code by Promethean. . James Leviathan. She was tortured, terrified of further pain, and it was hard to ignore as her body tensed from the closer, he came to her. Though, earning her trust would be the only way he could truly save her. Strangely, it had never occurred to James to have ownership over a faerie. Possibly because it was so rare to come across someone that could offer him one. Though, he was sure if he snooped around long enough and found the right people to ask, it would've been a dream made sooner rather than later. But it would've caught attention to him, and James had gone under the radar quite easily enough. Even in the club space, his true power wasn't well known, and he tried to keep it that way. It was one of the reasons Marigold, and he were no longer together. He placated her easy enough not to turn on him, but he could not really wipe her mind nor her heart. She was bound to him though of her own choice and free will, the spell he had over her would wither away easily enough as it did most of the women, he spent time with. And what Marigold lacked, what Samantha was just shy of. . James was sure he'd find another woman. But those thoughts were meaningless at this point as he felt the ticklish presence of Charm's feet plopping against his palm until defeated, she sank to her knees. He smirked at her compliment. He was sure she was much older than him, but by her appearance her youthfulness was derived by what seemed ageless beauty. She was smooth, more vibrant now, with gorgeous soft features – magic in its purest form. He could sense her exhaustion. She was cold to him, even in such a small size. . . Like the first bit of wind eager to eat up warm hands after removing your mittens. She was deteriorating, thought he seemed stable in the palm of his hand. He brought the other toward him to cup them together, giving her more space to move freely without the fear of falling. Though, he could tell by how lush the green in her cage and the number of vines that crept along the iron bars that she had been cramped inside for some time. It wasn't unheard of, abuse on the faeries. Often when they were used past their prime, they were left to die with so little magic making them valuable. Though to James, her beauty alone was enticing. He walked around his desk and took a seat before gently dipping his hands forward so she could walk freely along his desk. James turned the light on more, pushing aside the clutter and reaching for his glass. He studied her better now, noting the slight increase in energy from his touch alone. Even with magic, sustaining her would be hard should he leave her alone and even worse. . . If he was caught with her, it could lead to trouble. "I won't be calling you a pest, you can be sure of that." His drink was still fresh and taken down. James loosely held the glass around the rim, his forearms pressed in a lax droop across the armrests of his seat. "How long have you been. . . Here?" He doubted she was outside for long, but his question was more directed toward her being in the mortal realm. It sounded as though she had many unpleasant towns before him. The mortal world was a cruel and dangerous place though and even with his help, she was likely to perish. James placed the glass back down, pulling his chair then closer to his desk. His finger was careful as he touched the ends of her wings before moving his finger toward her hair. He found the smooth dip of the shapely figure. It was likely she was kept in her original figure to keep her from fleeing. In human form she'd have too many freedoms and the chance of escaping was even higher. James however wasn't so sure he liked the idea of a dead faerie lingering in his office. That twisted his insides and admittedly made him nervous, nothing good came from that, and he had no interest in ending his luck any time soon. And perhaps there was a curiosity. His eyes would only briefly look away from her, but he couldn't ignore the tingle he earned along his back as he watched her hips switch with each curious stretch across the desk. . . Or the gentle jiggle of her breasts. He'd thought he'd have to search far for his next conquest. . . But perhaps that luck he treasured so much dropped her on his doorstep instead. "Tell me Charmaine, do you mind your size?" code by Promethean Charmaine was a bit surprised as he moved to his desk. She sat up and glanced over to where they were heading. She didn't speak, but instead just pushed her hands beneath herself and looked over his desk. He had given her both of his palms, assuring her that she would not fall. It was odd to have such a man holding her with such care. The small fairy glanced over the desk as his hands came down to it. Surprised by the sudden offer to leave his hands she scrambled back to her feet. She elegantly hopped from the tips of his fingers and down onto the hard, solid wood desk he had given her. Her wings opened back up and slowly moved back and forth, gently fluttering as if to dry themselves, though it was more of a stretch for the FAE. She slowly sauntered across his desk, admiring the small items that he had collected. Though he had seemed to push it all aside for her to be comfortable on his desk. She heard the loud click and suddenly there was more light than before. It caused her to raise her hand and shield her eyes as she adjusted. Most days she was kept in the dark, bright lights were doused by the cloth and human shadows as they had loomed over her, yet now he had turned on the brightest she had seen in ages. She felt her eyes adjust and just in time to see him staring at her. Charmaine raised her brow at him. What was he looking at her like that for? She peered back at him, those brilliant eyes examining him as he did so to her. Suddenly he was asking questions and making conversation with her. "Here? You mean this realm? I came here when I was... 241, so I was young. I have been traded down...", she began to move her fingers as she counted, really thinking around it. "I've been through approximately four generations. I would estimate my age to be around 677, give or take. Being kept in a dark room and force performing magic isn't the best way to keep track of time.", She hummed out and glanced back up at the giant who was watching her. The screech of his chair made her take a couple steps back in surprise, not that it would be a significant amount to the man who seemed intrigued. She watched his hand as it came up, flinching as his finger came toward her. Then it graced the bottom of her wing, causing a shocked gasp from the fairy. The little redhead blushed and looked away from the giant as he seemed pleased with the feeling. He moved his finger and Charm whipped her head away to hide her face. She wasn't sure how she felt about being handled. Usually, it was rough, and it made it easy to dislike anything that was done. Gentle touches, even if they were to merely satisfy a curiosity, was unsettling her. She shouldn't like that warm finger dancing along her skin, it wasn't normal to like such thing. Yet after 400+ years of constant neglect. His touch was so soft, so warm, her insides danced. His gaze was like fire, licking up everything in sight and still searching for more. The small FAE turned away from him, moving to look for a seat, she frowned as none seemed to be presented. His question momentarily catching her attention. She turned back to him, wandering closer until she stood right before him. Her gaze searched his. "My form is my true one. Though if you are asking for me to become your size I could, just not right now." She sighed and turned away. "Fairies aren't meant to be on this plane. I used so much of my magic and though FAE have an enormous life span, when we use our magic here, it is cut short. We slowly fade as we are trapped in a world that isn't the FAE wilds, a world that isn't overrun by wild magic." She glanced up to see if he was following. "Once I would have been able to chance with ease, but now. Not only was I trapped within iron for so long, but my connection with the wilds is weak. Due to this, I grow tired, trying to preserve my energy, so I do not perish like so many FAE before me." She stopped talking and shift uncomfortably. Unsure if this next conversation was one, she wanted to have. The last human she offered this had nearly killed her over such a thing. "Fairies need a connection to this realm in order to live our full life and have access to magic. The way we do this is by Fairy contract." another pause as she slunk further and further away from him. She really didn't want him to lash out. "I can gain back my magic, if I have a soul to connect me. We need only sign a contract." She turned to face him now. "As a temporary fix you can give me access to your blood. It's rich in magic, it can help me." She muttered out the alternate option and stood at the other end of the desk, clearly nervous. .code by Promethean. . James Leviathan. Four generations was a long time. That was a lot of owners to have as a well. And he imagined it wasn't any easier being locked up for all those years. It made James' chest twinge with. A bit of sadness. He knew all too well what it was like to be kept behind bars, even figuratively in his case. Though his grandmother had eventually ended up putting bars on his windows to keep him from escaping. The man thought he was unfortunate because he'd lost his whole family, his parents and his grandmother and the only home he knew. He started this world out again at the most vulnerable point in his life, where nurturing proved crucial if he were to grow up at all in this world without a cruel bone in his body. Yet, for James, the fire had been the only blessing it seemed in his life at the time. Even if the years at the orphanage weren't incredibly easy, and he hadn't ever truly found his forever family. . .he would never regret the day the hire set ablaze. He finished his drink then, pushing the small cube of ice onto the flat of his tongue and twirling it around until he could crack it against his back teeth. "That's a long time. And you're right, fairies aren't meant to be in this world and certainly not for as long as you have." She'd maybe have another hundred years left in her, if that, if she were to stay around any longer. The contract that she spoke of wasn't unheard of. Though not many fell for that trick. It almost, well actually entirely guaranteed a FAE's freedom from that point. It was quite hard to tell them what to do when they were no longer the size of two thimbles stacked together. But that wasn't to say it was a complete-lost cause. She could very well still be changed into his size, as long as she was bound and tethered to a human. For that, James would also be putting himself at risk. Not only would he have to answer to the Court of Magic for housing a faerie outside the wilds, but he'd have to give something in return. . . A sacrifice of his own. It was essentially the same as putting up collateral. . . Just a higher risk as some material possessions didn't hold as much weight by those with such grad power. But the more he thought about it, the less the risk seemed. If things worked out, Charm could stay with him as long as she wanted. . . But if wander seeped into her heart it could certainly cause problems. His hand reached up to stroke the short hairs of his beard. He hadn't shaved in a couple of weeks and was growing used to having hair on his face. Right now, it offered something to do with his fingers as he thought. He didn't even know if he had the skill set to change her properly. James' magic hadn't been explored as well as he would've liked and was mostly self-taught. He had enough books to help him though, but he still kept himself from the mages in their world. Though he wouldn't be surprised if most of them were able to pick up on how he used it through his daily life, with work and all. "If I were to offer you a chance of. . . Freedom. Freedom as in I won't lock you inside that cage and I can help you become human. Just long enough for you regain some strength. . . Are you willing to submit to and me only?" Of course, the thoughts James had in mind were far from using Charm for her magic. There were other thoughts in mind created out of a fantasy that bloomed with each second, she remained in his eye. She was a blank slate, a fresh canvas or untouched dough malleable and free to mold to his liking. He had a chance at creating the perfect submissive. "You can stay here. You will have your own room if you like. . .there are just a. A couple of rules. If you say yes, I will tell you them, and we can prepare the ceremony immediately tonight." code by Promethean Charmaine frowned at him. He wasn't wrong. Most fairies made it around two generations before they fell to the lack of magic. That was extremely short. This world tore them apart, left them broken and lonely before it consumed them. For Charm, this was different, she was of Royal bloodlines and this world was mixed within her lines somewhere. She could last a long time if only she had an anchor. This man seemed to really debate it. When he moved his hand she flinched, only to realize he hadn't been moving for her. Most humans didn't trust fairy contacts, the FAE were known for their clever wording, so she couldn't blame him. Yet he didn't seem to fully understand how contracts worked. If she took something, he's get more than imaginable. Charmaine was a true and kind soul. Trickery was not within her despite the way she would benefit from it. She shifted as his eyes still seemed glued upon her, what an odd feeling this was. To feel his eyes eating her up as if she was a snack. She had felt this feeling from men but hidden within the plants of her cage it was easy to hide from the unwanted chill that crawled up her spine. With James, it wasn't particularly unpleasant, just unsettling to know he took her in like that. When he spoke next, she narrowed her eyes. Was he really willing to help her get stronger? She hung on his every word but when he spoke of her submitting, she felt herself grow hesitant. What did that imply? Giving herself to him, in what way. She was somewhat experienced, but not in the way of human's, and he seemed to like this idea he was purposing. Her heart began to race as she looked away. Her wings moved in small motions of relaxing and tightening as she thought about what he said. Chewing her bottom lip as she was unsure what to do. She was growing so tired standing here on his desk. "Rules?" She suddenly repeated. She looked up at him and concern crossed her face. Furthermore, she was unsure of this deal he was purposing. Still, it seemed to benefit both sides, Charmaine would be able to feed on magic and reconnect with the wild magic, and he would get... her? In some way it seemed he got more out of this than her. She was allowed a normal human life. No longer caged like some pet. Yet everything in her knew that she wasn't escaping. She fiddled with one of the chains hanging from her waist. Should she try to convince him of the contract? Or should she bend to his will like she had bent before. Charm bit her lip too hard, and she flinched, wings shuttering. Her hand came up, and she touched her lip to find her blood, a beautiful shimmering gold decorating her lip before she licked it away. The FAE glanced back up at the human male. Was this so different from a FAE contract? "If I agree... You'll keep your word. You won't let me die?" Her voice was softer than before, he would have had to listen with strained ease, even in the quiet of the room. She was unsure, and it showed in the small flicking of her eyes from him to the emptiness of his desk, "O-okay. I will agree to your terms." She didn't have another choice, right? It was this or slowly die from lack of magic. At that moment she'd much rather have to bend to his will then to die. She was making a contract on his terms, how utterly terrifying. 'W-What are the rules?" She hesitated to ask, after all she wasn't sure she was prepared to hear what this man wanted from her. Everything he did seemed well-thought-out. Was she being tricked? .code by Promethean. . James Leviathan. He wasn't surprised at her hesitation. FAE had their own ways of doing things and often were seen as tricksters. So, surely, she shouldn't be shocked that even he was apprehensive to make the deal in the first place. But, In James' eyes they both were getting what they wanted and needed out of the situation. What she found her life worth would affect how she saw what he got out of it of course. She was valuable, more than just a body and yet what he had in mind for her wasn't just a matter of using and abusing her for the same kind of sick twisted joy the others got out of her. His desires for her, she would find much more pleasurable, so he hoped. Or else. . .it would be for naught. But she wouldn't be defenseless then and maybe that's what got the wheels spinning and her urge to change her mind. "Yes rules," he repeated with a sigh. Order would be kept if they had them, and it was for their safety as well, especially her own as this would all be new to her. Even having been in this world as long as he had, walking amongst humans was quite different – integrating herself into the mortal society would leave her very little chance of hiding or escaping behind the shrubbery she grew in her cage for protection. And ultimately, she would have to put a lot of trust in James. "I promise to keep my word. I will not let you die." Even after a month of absorbing his power he was sure she would feel much stronger and renewed. The longer she remained, the higher a chance at her life expectancy reverting to normal. Hearing her comply brought a reliving breath to escape past his lips. He couldn't help the breathy chuckle that came after as her hair blew back from the wind. "I don't want to overwhelm you seem barely able to stand, let along stay conscious." He didn't want to state the obvious, that she had already agreed to his terms before hearing them. . .whatever she so chose would mean going back on her word and Charm would then be right where she started. James wasn't a trickster, but he knew that what he told her could scare her away. "Let's at least prepare you for the ritual." He finished his drink and reached for a Kleenex to wipe out the glass as best as possible before offering it for her to crawl into. It'd be easier to carry her around without outstretching his hands, and he didn't think she was steady enough to fly, let alone ride along on his shoulder. Secure inside, he stood up. The blood rush was warmed from the liquor which felt good to help ease any nerves he possibly had about if he was capable of doing this correctly. He could kill her by accident, should he divert too much power into her. But he kept a straight face which he hoped instilled confidence in Charm. James began out of the study, turning the lights off in the process. He was sure she wasn't used to his sort of living accommodations at the widened expression she gave, trying to take everything in. He first went downstairs, placing the glass on the counter. Furthermore, he stepped out on the backdoor patio, leaving her alone briefly while he collected some ingredients from the garden. When he returned, he had a handful of mint and lavender. He added them inside the glass and began back toward upstairs. James climbed up the stairs until he reached her bedroom which was just a standard guest room on the third floor. There were few decorations, just standard modern furniture in black and white. Over time, she could make it her own, should she choose to remain separate from him. He'd all the means to give her what she wanted. While he did want to know of her whereabouts, he had no intentions to make this more intimate than it needed to be between a master and his submissive. And while she saw it perhaps that she was sacrificing more, James could say confidently that at least in this world, he would guarantee her a better life than she was living. He headed into the bathroom, turning on the lights which he found too bright even for himself. James lowered the firmness and offered an apologetic smile. He placed her on the counter where she could peer at herself in the mirror above the sink. To the right was the walk in shower and to the left was the rounded bath, both of which wouldn't work. He plugged the sink instead as soon as the water became a perfect warm temperature. James began to pick the plants and sprinkle them in as he looked to Charm who still seemed unsure of him and her choices. He knew holding out on the rules wasn't helping. "I will change the rules according to our relationship. You haven't acted out, yet which leads me to have much more trust in you. Every action of course will have a reaction. You do something bad, and that will require punishment." He paused, knowing that word wouldn't be taken lightly. "My intentions aren't to hurt you Charmaine, please know that. But I am a man of particular taste. . .and I'd like you to be the one to fulfill such desires I have. And yes, it will require. . . Me to do things to you that perhaps you aren't used to. But I will never force anything on you that you don't like. Understand?" He extended his hand out then for her to hop into so he could lower her into the water. "These things are twisted acts of debauchery." His free hand reached to run gently along the back of her head. "When I want you, I expect you willing and waiting to please me. And that's all I ask of you. For that, you are allowed to roam freely as you wish. My house is your home and my garden your wonderland. But – under no circumstance do you leave without me and certainly not without permission." His hands still hovered above water now. James fixed his gaze on her sternly. "If this is not what you want, then I will permit you still an honorable death in your cage. No chains. No shackles. No locked door." It was a hard ultimatum, bondage, or death, but James would think his offer was not terrible. But beyond her comfort? More than likely and that was the exciting bit. "By stepping into the water, I will take it as your oath to me." code by Promethean Charmaine The little FAE could only hope that he kept the promise. It was one she held onto desperately. After all, dying wasn't just scary it wasn't something she supposed to have come to terms with. The red-headed fairy was surprised by the breath. Her red locks fluttering about her face in odd way before his chuckle seemed to echo through her bones. Her blue eyes stared at him, unsure of what the chuckle had been for. Charm frowned as he wouldn't speak his terms. Uneasy about what he was implying. What kind of terms was he planning on adding. These rules he had planned, were they that terrible. She pursed her lips together tightly, uncertainty and fear rolling around and making her stomach clench. This might have been a mistake. Charm bit the inside of her lip; he wasn't wrong about her. The FAE was ready to collapse, and she wasn't sure how she was standing at the moment. When he spoke of the ritual, the fairy didn't know what that entailed, and so she just sat there quietly observing as he wiped out his glass. The glass was offered, and Charmaine stood staring at the cold glass. Everything in her was disappointed, even if she didn't mean to be. She had been looking forward to curling up in his warmth and instead was met with a drinking glass. He had wiped it clean but for the fairy, she could see each smear of wetness that still hung to the glass. Unfortunately, she wasn't in a position to refused, and so she approached the glass. Climbing inside and he tilted it up. This felt confined and she didn't like it. Each turn hand her wings brushing the sides, and she took a sharp inhale to keep from cursing. This was nothing like his hands and she didn't lie it. Not at all! Set down the glass echoed in her ears, and she reached up covering her sensitive eardrums and when she opened her eyes he was gone. She held her breath, confused as she looked around. A kitchen? Charm chewed the inside of her cheek as she waited, leaning against the frigid glass. When he appeared from the door, she blinked a couple of times as she enjoyed the aromas of the herbs in his clench fist. Easing forward she peered over the glass just as he put them in. She squeaked in surprise and pouted at how filled the glass had become, yet she never once voiced this. Instead, she just watched where they went to next. The room they entered was clean, pretty, and she was completely unaware it was the one he intended for her. As they got to the bathroom, she took in the beauty of it. These were pretty, but plain places. This wasn't his room, so why were they here? She had a hard time with the light, but the human male adjusted them, and she couldn't help but enjoy the smile on his face. It had been soft. The herbs sprinkled into the clogged sink had her brows furrowing. Was that for her? What kind of ritual involved giving her a bath? How odd. The FAE's head snapped up as he began to speak. She watched him and a small blush played on her cheeks. What did he mean he trusted her?! She had done nothing to gain any trust. His speaking of punishment had her shrinking beneath what herbs still sat in the glass. Punishment sounded frightening. Charm wasn't big on pain or abuse; they were terrifying concepts. Still, he gave her valid reasons, after all a fairy should know how bad breaking rules were. She didn't want to break them. His voice was not cold, it held authority as he spoke of his tastes and desires, and it finally began to hit home what he was implying. Her freckled face turned a deep cherry color, and she looked up at him with wide eyes. No wonder he needed her his size. Her stomach clenched and the FAE's blue gaze dropped to the floor. "Understood.", came the confirming whisper as a new fear ran up her spine. It couldn't be that terrible, right? He was being honest, that wasn't usual for humans. His hand was offered, and Charmaine stepped into it. She shuttered at the heat that licked up her body and the little FAE wanted to sink into him. He was certainly becoming a comfort. The water looked just as soothing, what she hadn't expected was him to pull her attention the way he did with that soft stroke. She looked up at him and listened to what he said. Her arms drifting around her chest to hide her hardening nipples. How embarrassing that his words were sending chills along her skin when she didn't fully understand what he meant. Ideas of sex floated in her mind, but even that she knew was nothing compared to what he was implying. She dropped her gaze to the clear water and shook her head. "I don't want to die in the iron prison. I'll be your...", She paused and realized that she wasn't quite a slave. She had more freedoms than a prisoner. She turned looked up at that hard look on his face. "I'll be whatever it is that you want." with that she sank into the sink. Slipping down under the water completely, spreading her wings, and then she popped her head above the water and looked over the man. "What now?", She asked soft, hoping for some direction. After all this was all on his terms, even if she had a choice was there any other option besides what he was offering, after all, who would choose death. .code by Promethean. . James Leviathan. She was thinking about it. Beyond those widened eyes, he could tell her mind was spinning with a way to understand what was going on. Or possibly a way to work herself out of his conditions while still remaining true to the contract. Finding a loophole should be easy for a fairy, but James found it hard to believe that she really had a conniving bone in her body. Though, he'd been fooled by a pretty face before, and even he should know that not everyone was as they seemed. So, while he did admit he trusted her, there was still quite a lot of ground that she would need to cover if she expected for him to let his guard down completely. Such as allowing her to leave the premises without him. James couldn't risk her out in the world, not only for her safety, but under the possibility that he could disappear, and he would never see her again. And if she'd her power restored by then. . . Well that was even more concerning. But he wasn't that much of a sadist and had no desire to keep her weak on purpose. Besides, what he had in mind would require a lot of strength both physical and mental. And while Charm possibly didn't understand everything at that moment, he believed that even she could tell that purposely crippling herself no matter how much dignity she had, would leave her in a less than promising position. He was relieved when she responded and even more so as she slipped from his hands and into the scented water. She dunked herself, thereby cleaning her of the horrible energy she came in with. James readjusted his sleeves which had begun to fall down and dipped his hand in the water. He'd only read about what he was doing but had never undermined his sense of intelligence. "Now you stay very still." Water spells weren't exactly the easiest as the element was fickle to work with. Yet, it was a key component in the strongest of spells, especially when drawing a fairy into a human's form. Faeries and humans weren't entirely that much different, aside from the obvious being one had magic and the other didn't. Though, there had been a time when it was hard to tell the difference between the two. As some fairies tended more to the realism of their world, they were drawn less and less from that particular side of them. The act of desiring the possession of material items for comfort rather than for trinkets and most faeries tended to eventually humanize the everyday mortal. But it wasn't uncommon for a FAE to turn mortar on their own; it just took much more time and required more interaction with them than he expected Charmaine had with her previous handlers. James closed his eyes and took a deep breath, the magic from him coming off in small waves. A light humming echoed against the walls and began to create small ripples in the water. His fingers sparked with light orange though eventually settled into an ongoing warm orange, like a lit candle in control of the flame. Immediate growth was unlikely, she'd need at least the night for the magic to settle in her body entirely. But immediately she would feel invigorated, refreshed and as though she were a whole new person – much stronger than she was when she entered. By the end of it, the last bit of color had turned into smoke, the tips of his fingers sizzling against the water as they were pulled from beneath and danced across the surface. James peeked from the corner of his eye and saw that she seemed fine which made him relieved. But he had no clue if it would work to his liking until the morning came. He grabbed the small hand towel format h wall to wrap her in as he extended a hand out for her to hop on to. He could already expect her to be cold from the tiny goosebumps in between the freckles on her skin. "If it worked, tomorrow you will wake up well. . . I imagine you'll still be much smaller than me but much closer to the size of a human," he teased with a smirk. He kept her in his hands this time, knowing the ride in the glass cup probably wasn't the smoothest let alone at all comfortable. James paused in the middle of her room. His brows dented as he realized for the first night of freedom it seemed pretty daunting. And maybe there was some kind of paranoia now attached to his possession as officially she was his. "Suppose I'll just sleep extra carefully tonight," he said under his breath. Though it did cause a small chuckle to escape at the thought of rolling over on her. "How do you feel?" he asked as they exited the bedroom. He took the stairs down to the second floor which led to his bedroom. James placed her carefully on his side of the bed while trying to create a comfortable enough mini bed for her out of a pillow and the light blue throw that was occasionally used on winter nights. "You know, I'm surprised you are not as inquisitive as I imagined," he said with a chuckle as he settled her in place. He tossed the wet towel into the laundry basket in the closet. James moved around, looking over his shoulder to watch that she was still safe and snug. "Suppose I will have to figure a way to explain you to my staff as well." He began to remove his shirt then. Bare chested there was more context to the man who was not so perfect, even despite the well-built and muscular frame. That all came with hard work and discipline which unfortunately he did have to thank his grandmother for. His body was littered with scars, some so deeply imprinted they stood out as white raised skin, while others were but flattened and slightly discolored. He'd only one tattoo, a rose fitted around his stomach; the result of a drunken accident with college friends that ended up growing on him. The thorny pricks and uneven design had seemed to be a perfect touch to the idea of beauty and the imperfection in it. James was slow to undo his belt, but the idea of flaunting himself or allowing Charm a chance at seeing him would be best to get over with now rather than deal with such awkwardness later. The leather cracked in his tight grip before it was loosened, and belt pulled to officially come undone from the buckle. The length of him wasn't as accurate, curled slightly in the tight black boxers he wore, but the thickness of James was evidently seen by the defined outline – he'd undeniably been twitching out the possibility of growing harder since he'd spotted Charm in the light. His fingers mussed through his hair, undoing whatever style remained from the little product left as he approached the bed. Her side remained unmoving as he bent just a little under his weight until he was tucked under the covers. James reached for a remote which helped with turning the lights off without the need to get up. He didn't enjoy not seeing Charm though, even though her wings twinkled some in the dark. Carefully he reached over her to turn on the lamp to the lowest setting as it had been in his study. A yawn slipped through his lips, fighting off sleep after a long flight was growing impossible. Code by Promethean Charmaine Stay still? She didn't move when he said that. After all she really wasn't sure what he was doing. So, the little fairy didn't move, she floated there as still as she could manage as her red locks now had a deep blood color. Wet hair slicked against her head, eyes flicking up as the magic male. Warmth, absolute warmth swirled around her. It danced around her toes and up the arch on the bottom of her foot, wrapping around her ankle and gliding up her calf. Charmaine let out a sharp breath as the water glowed, and his magic danced up her body. When it hit her thighs, the fairy found herself losing her breath, dancing between her thighs and gracing her mound before slowly wrapping her hips and continuing the spiral up her torso. It danced its way up. This feeling was unlike anything she had felt when it came to magic, maybe because Charmaine had never let magic be performed on her. It was a warm caress, a touch almost as if his hands were roaming her skin. Her breast were grazed, and her nipples hardened beneath the water, it brought a pleasant chill along her spine, crawling up her spine, but the taste of his magic lingered on her lips. She had barely noticed the water changing, the feeling of his magic infusing her was all consuming. Her breaths came out harsh and ragged as she felt the magic kissing her like a long-lost lover. The FAE chewed her lip as she did feel more awake, in fact it was like she was given everything she needed to not feel as if she was rotting inside. Charm climbed out and took the offered towel before climbing into his hand. This time she didn't faulted like before. Her feet pressing to his palm, toes wriggling against the feel of his skin. "Thank you.", She breathed out the assurance and looked up to the mage with a sparkle in her eyes. She slipped to sit in his palm and dried her hair with the washcloth. She laughed, a small, bell like laugh more unique than it was before. "I was never large in my human form anyway. I doubt that would change.", She snickered. There was a glow about her as his magic had brought her flame back. A warmth to her pale, freckled skin that hadn't been there. She looked even more like a magical thing. The purple and yellow hues of death washed away by the glow she now held. She ran her small fingers through her hair and shook the wet locks. That was when he stopped, and Charmaine found herself glancing up at him. Her brows quirked. What was he thinking for his brows to twist in that manner? It didn't matter how soft the whisper came; Charmaine's hearing was exceptional. So, when he spoke her own brows furrowed together. "What do you mean?" She spoke, a bit concerned at the way he had muttered that. They turned and headed somewhere else. It wasn't as if Charm knew that was her room or that his intention had been to leave her in there. No, she had no idea at all what he was implying. "I feel much better. My insides don't feel like they are rotting anymore.", She spoke back and paid careful attention to the way he took. No longer in a daze she could take in her surroundings, the place she was going to be calling home. After all she had given herself to him, a contract even if it was only words and spells. Nothing like a FAE contract and yet the small fairy would honor it, nonetheless. When they entered his room, she was assaulted by his scent. Immediately she knew they were in his place. She took a deep breath of the musky, calming scent. Set on the bed she dropped the towel, flipping her hair and then shaking her wings. Looking around the room as the male moved around it. "What do you mean?", she looked at the bed he had made her, walking over to it, he picked her up once more and let her get comfortable, however, Charm wasn't sure she was particularly tired right then. She hadn't felt this good in a decade, and she wasn't in the mood for sleep. Her blue eyes drifted to the man who was now across the room removing his clothes. Her eyes narrowed on him, the scars that decorated his body, the hard lines of muscles he kept tone. Furthermore, her face reddened and the FAE dropped her gaze. Why was he undressing? Odd how it felt wrong to look at him and yet that was all he had been doing to her. Charmaine looked beneath the covers at her own body, the chains and ribbon that decorated it, showing every dip and curve while hiding nothing. She had been nude for so long she hardly remembered to be ashamed of such things anymore. Seeing him undress was different for her. She felt as if she was invading his privacy, that was when the snap of leather and metal dragged her eyes back up and over to the male. She took him in, every inch that was exposed and every inch that was hidden away. Her face turned a deeper shade of crimson and she half sunk beneath the blanket. Were all humans supposed to give off such an alluring aura. His scent ravaged her nose, surround by everything that was him it caused the FAE to turn and avert her eyes before she was caught staring so long. She gripped the blanket as he got in, and she chewed her bottom lip. Working the soft flesh and making it puffy as the lights turned out. It didn't last long, as soon a dim lamp was clicked on. That's when she found his eyes on her, even as he fought off sleep. Once he had drifted off Charm snuggled beneath the blanket and stared at the ceiling. Everything felt so odd, like a dream. She had been trapped in the cage for so long she honestly thought she would never get out. When that human had walked away with her, she honestly thought he was going to bury her somewhere to die. Yet, she ended up here, in his hands. She looked at James' hands and remembered as he cradled her. He was so gentle, and yet he had promised her he was twisted and depraved in his cravings. It should have scared her; she should have been upset and wanted to go home now that she was halfway free. She should be searching forever option to break this contract. Should be. Instead, Charm was intrigued, curious and tired. He had spoken about her lack of being inquisitive. Maybe she had just spent so many years being yelled at for the mere sound of her voice, that the need to speak about any question had left her. She thought all the time, wanted to ask things, wanted to know why. She had been tempted to ask so many questions. Yet years of abuse made her feel as if the words got stuck in her throat. He was nice to her; she didn't want to ruin it and make him angry. At some point she drifted to sleep, lost in her thoughts. Her eyes having grown heavy, and she finally let the dreams take her. She woke to a sensation unlike any other. She knew this feeling, but it was different. Furthermore, she opened her eyes, breathless and found herself no longer looking at a James who was giant, but a man who, still taller than her, was laying asleep unaware his magic had worked. Charmaine moved from the bed to look into the mirror. Her heavily freckled face, brilliant red hair and brilliant blue eyes. The chains that once decorate her body were gone, small similar looking items decorating piercing in her ears. They move from helix to helix and then to a lobe piercing. That was new. She ran her hands over her body, taking in the flesh. Her wings now decorated her back as tattoos. She glanced back at James and hummed in wonder. He used magic quite well. If that was the case, then shouldn't he know of the counsel of the rules of FAE? She brushed the thoughts aside and wandered to her side of the bed and crawled under his covers. Would he be surprised, would he like that she hadn't wandered off? She glanced at the clock and saw it was early morning. She wasn't tired, so charm waited there. Quiet until he finally stirred. When his eyes fluttered open and then landed on the life-size freckled beauty Charm smiled softly at him. "I think it worked." She spoke softly, not sure how he would like the change that came with being full size. The voice was sultry and smooth, slightly different from the faint whisper of a voice she had as her miniature size. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. It was comforting to know that she felt better. It pained him to see how she ached with each step, tired from even the act of keeping herself standing. He could already spot the new signs of life inside of her, the way her skin seemed to flush with a much healthier glow. She was filled with so much life, and it actually annoyed James that sleep tugged harder and harder until he could barely keep his eyes open another second. He was awakened by the light chiming ringtone. Even while muffled, it still managed to rouse the man from sleep. James reached his hand toward the dresser blindly, irritated when he realized his phone was still stuck in his pants across the room. He sat up, pushing his elbows into the mattress as his hand came up to wipe the sleep from his eyes. He was aware of the presence before Charm spoke; the soft breeze from between her lips as she buzzed with a newfound excitement. Furthermore, he turned his head slowly, as though scared of what he would see – Charmaine was no monster, but it still made a shudder go down James' spine when his power proved to be real. The sultry smooth voice was quite different from the soprano sing-song tone Charmaine had last night, bigger of course as she was now his size. He shot up immediately, leaving the comforter to pool around his waist. "Jesus." His gaze swept over her freckled face, which had been pushed close to his as though she were observing him the whole time, he was asleep. "How long have you been awake?" He was trying hard to resist the urge to look any lower, knowing that there were other parts of her that had grown, parts he'd been fond of even in her FAE state. His tongue swept across his lips, urging a small bit of water to rid of the dry mouthed he had every morning. For the first time he hadn't kicked his sheets off in a state of frustration, as James grew hot quickly. The comforter hid the excited state of his length, which he tucked a little between his legs as he shifted into a more upright position. That seemed to make her shift, which drew attention to her bare body. In the background his arm still went on. James kept himself from saying anything just yet as he climbed out of bed. He found his phone and shut it off at five am. By now he would be getting ready for a run. Typically, they preferred swimming a few laps but judging from the weather announcement, it was much too cold with the promise of snow. When he turned around, he found Charmaine's eyes wandering, probably still taking in the sight of a world that at one point had been much too big for her. He scratched his chest, before pushing his hand through the wild dark locks, taming them briefly. It felt much stranger being half naked in front of her now, though there was little he could do to hide that he was half-mast. The phone was placed onto the charger on the dresser. He'd work in the next three hours and while James was never one to phone it in or take a day off, today seemed like it would have to be done. "It worked very well," he said finally with a breathy chuckle. "Wow – look at you." It wasn't impossible to see her beauty before, but this up close. . . Charm was absolutely striking. His brows set toward the middle, and he worked hard to keep his expression neutral so as not to make her think he was upset. But he did grow frustrated with each passing second; there was a hunger growing. . . An eager sense to dive into what they'd discussed. It'd be unfair for him to do so fresh in her mortal body. "We'll have to get you into some clothes." He couldn't help his eyes passing over her, not wanting to keep his eyes off Charm for too long. James sent a text to Griselda who he knew probably was just getting ready to leave her home. He'd ask her to bring something for Charmaine to change into, at least for now. Once his schedule was handled, he'd work on taking her out for clothing of her own. For now, though. . . What could he do that wouldn't make him hungrier for her? He looked around and headed for his closet only to emerge with a dress shirt. James extended his arm. "It'll help me focus," he could only explain. And while yes, he loved the idea of her being naked, controlling when she should bare herself to him was a part of the fun. "Or would you prefer a shower first?" code by Promethean Charmaine was quiet, careful as she watched him stir. His body moved, the way his fingers blindly patted over the dresser to find something. She had heard the small chimes and realized he was looking for the noise. Curious. The FAE froze as his eyes finally landed on her. He nearly stole her breath with that sleepy gaze that took her in. She let her own stare shine with just as much emotion as his did, mirroring the man, those blue eyes bright. The curse brought a smirk curling at the corners of her mouth; however she did not miss the fact that when he sat up so fast, he took the cozy blanket with him. She let the smirk fade and cocked her brow at his question as she shrugged. "Not sure. Since the magic tickled me awake. She pushed up herself and let him get a good view of her top half. Her face heavily freckled with hardly any room for her pale skin. Brilliant red locks shone like fire and her blue eyes contrasted it. Full lips stayed in a neutral state and as she pushed the wavy fire-colored locks to the side she exposed those piercings along her ear. Both sides now decorated with the chains and ribbons that were on her small FAE body. Daring to travel past her face her freckles died out, becoming lighter and scarce down her neck, but that only made the black in upon her throat stand out. One in the small V dip of her throat and the other at the base of her throat by where it dropped to her clavicle. Her arms were also decorated in the dark ink. One swirling symbol between her breasts and the other much larger mark at the base of her breast and dipping over her diaphragm. Each nipple now perked due to the cold air that licked at them. Each one with a bronze gold bar through them, clearly pierced. The rest of her skin was smooth with light freckled kissing here and there. The further down, the more the freckles seemed to disappear. She watched his eyes and he seemed, perplexed? She enjoyed his gaze, even if it was only on her face and her eyes were glued to the way his tongue flicked out and ran across his lips. Furthermore, she liked that too. Furthermore, she wriggled and sat up as the man exited the bed. His back to her for a moment as he fetched his phone. She did not miss the length in his boxers, still she pulled her eyes away to take in his room. She recalled him saying she got her own and she hoped he wouldn't mind her having plants she created. Some might even prove useful to spells he might want to cast. After all he was giving her so much. Maybe this bargain wasn't one she should appreciate, but she did. He had saved her and for that she silently made an oath. She owed him a life debt, one that she would never speak out loud, but so long as he desired and made her feel this warm, she would be loyal to him. For FAE, loyalty was deeper, most emotions were deeper than what a human could fathom. Stories of Tinkerbell that flooded this world, well they held some truth. Fairies had deep emotions; feelings that ran so deep into their soul that made it easy to switch from happiness to vengeance in a second. She stretched her arms into the air as he plugged in his phone and those bright blue eyes glanced over. When the next words fell from his lips the woman lifted her head, eyes locking onto him as she practically stared into his soul. He approved then. His gaze left a heat on her skin and a tingling deep in her stomach. She liked whatever feeling this was even if it made her a bit uneasy. "I am happy to have pleased you by being myself." She smiled, a small bell like laughter spilling from her lips. She had no idea how his thoughts were going, just that she felt her cheeks flush under this new intense gaze. When he spoke of clothes her brows furrowed. They were restricting, and she couldn't say she was a fan of them. Still, she hadn't put up a fight, why should she now. As he came out with a dress shirt and his next comment, a bright laugh burst from her without intention. "I make you lose focus?" She hummed, more curious than anything. Still there was no refusal when she grasped the shirt. She pulled it on, sitting up on her knees to do up a few of the buttons. She left quite a little open on top and his shirt still sat on her very loosely. Furthermore, she yawned and rubbed her eye as she slipped from the bed. "I'm okay, I feel clean." She spoke and looked him over before looking around the room once more. "I am hungry, though. May we eat?" She then glanced back and looked up at the man with a plea in her face as her stomach grumbled to confirm her statement. .code by Promethean[/div]. James Leviathan." Very much so," he responded with a gruff, though there was a smile playing on his face. He was disappointed really in seeing her begin to button up the shirt. The brief flash of her smooth creamy skin made him instinctively grip himself for a moment before he became aware of what he was doing. He tried to focus then on his phone instead, giving the illusion he was busy when in reality he was waiting for the final moment her supple breasts would be out of his direct line of gaze. "And while I'm not shy about my guests, I think it may alarm a few of the house staff to see you walking around nude." Fortunately, Griselda was the only one who Charmaine would have to really worry about daily. The others only came by on the weekend, or after he hosted a gathering to clean up. But Griselda oversaw most of his household duties, including cooking his meals. Not to say James was at all incapable, but he had grown to enjoy the luxury of not having to cook. Still, he was sure that he could whip something up easily enough for Charm. He walked toward his dresser where he grabbed a pair of sweats out and pulled them on. Charmaine's eyes followed him curiously and when he turned to look at her, she peered with the docile and doleful expression like a pet he's rescued, waiting for his next move out instruction. "On your feet or do you expect me to carry you around as I did last night?" He walked closer to the bed, his knees meeting the edge. She still smelled of lavender from the bath last night. James extended his hands out and made a 'come here' motion. He stopped her before she could successfully get off the bed, as his body was blocking her in one direction at least. "Wait." His voice dropped low. James' hands cradled her face gently, his thumbs pressed against the apples of her cheeks. Slowly they roamed downward until they could feel over her plump lips, stained a deep pink. His touch continued downward, over the slope of her shoulders and arms, but pulling in to find the curve in her frame. His shirt was pinched against his palm as he fitted it more to her figure. James hummed, pushing further until he could feel the weight of her breasts in his hand. . . The way her nipple reacted to touch so instant. It made him twitch hard between the legs, his brows furrowing now deeper in the middle of his forehead as though in absolute concentration. "Don't. Move." The stern tone he took was much different than the gentler approach he had with her last night. "How does this feel?" He inquired as his flattened palm now explored lower while his left hand had taken to cradling the back of her head. His eyes were focused on her brilliant blues, his reflection almost shimmering. He felt close to her, tied to Charmaine in a way that only magic could bind. Though slow, he wasn't at all timid as his touch finally reached what he'd aimed for. . . The unruly red hair, a tuft upon above her sex. The tips of his fingers were shy of the slit, and it took every bit of everything in him not to trail further. But there was more than enough time to get Charmaine there, and he was curious of her reaction. Had his conditions clicked even more today than last night when she agreed to them? "Food first," he said finally with a sigh as he pulled back. He stepped aside, his hand extended outward should she want to take it for assistance. Keeping his hands to himself was for his own sanity, but he did have the twisted thought in mind that she would yearn for him as he did for her, incredibly so much at that moment. He walked own the stairs, being sure not to go off too quick as he was sure she was curious to take everything in. The blonds had been opened by a timer and while it was still incredibly gray outside, James actually thought it is a beautiful sight. The lush green trees that surrounded the home did have something to do with that. In the kitchen he moved about freely, starting the coffee maker and then moving between the fridge and cabinets. "What sounds good? Eggs, toast, bacon, sausages, fruit?" code by Promethean Charmaine The little FAE found her eyes on him. Unintentionally she was very aware of his movement, even if her own fingers worked the buttons closed. She found herself slightly embarrassed as she caught him doing that. It didn't seem to last long, he moved, and her eyes flicked back down to her fingers. She was about button one more, she stopped, not quite sure why she did, but she did. There was a possibility maybe she liked the way his eyes constantly drag over her. Odd, she usually hated when humans looked at her like that. Those hungry eyes had never really settled well. His eyes, well his eyes made her want to sit there forever under his gaze. She liked how warm it made her feel. How when he looked at her. Those eyes that ate her up. Her heart picked up a beat as she thought of that. She shouldn't like it this much, maybe it was because he had saved her. Those blue eyes shifted from her fingers to the sound of movement. She peeled them up and once more the little FAE was staring at him. Watching him drag on some sweats while she sat unmoving on his bed. When he suddenly spoke Charm's cheeks puffed as a pout took hold of her lips. Her area narrowed a bit at him. He hadn't moved to take her anywhere, she didn't know his home, why would she have moved. The little FAE felt like she was being scolded, and yet she hadn't done anything wrong. Charmaine didn't quite understand as he has also brought up carrying her. She felt a small sting in her chest as her gaze fell to the sheets. "I don't recall you being so against holding me when I could fit into your palm." She muttered her response back. She was obviously unsure about the comment and felt the need to defend herself. Even if she had been out of it, the look that had crawled across every inch of his features was never one that seemed unpleasant. So his comment felt a bit unnecessary. Remnants of that pout were on her lips as she lifted her eyes to find him at the bed. He motioned for her and despite everything in her wanting to be defiant, to turn away from him, she moved toward him instead. She slid across the bed, crawling part of the way. She prepared to move when he blocked her. Charmaine couldn't help but let a confused look flick up at him. Her brows furrowed, but then came the words and a tone she hadn't heard out of his mouth. Charm found her breath hitching, as she received his command and had frozen before him. His hands found her face and the fairy found herself suddenly very nervous. His large hands were gentle, careful with a moment as he held her like that. A soft pink played beneath the thick freckles of her cheeks. His hands moved and charm just stared up at him. Confused as to why he suddenly wanted to touch her. His finger felt nice against her lips. Warm, slightly rough with a firm pressure as he seemed to be... exploring? Yet her heart was throbbing violently against her chest as her lips parted slightly, and he moved on. His touch was sure, confident, slow. A searing touch that was leaving Charm warming in her belly. What took her off guard was him cupping her breast. The pink slowly darkening as her nipple peaked against the hard pressure of his palm. Her next exhale was staggered out, surprise AMS another overwhelming feeling a buzzing between her thighs she didn't quite understand. The next command had her eyes searching his. She dist understand how she was supposed to hold still while he was touching her like this. Yet, as she had learned, she obeyed him. Even going as far as to try to breathe normally, quietly. It didn't work. His hand was dropping as she fought not to jerk back. Wide blue eyes looked at James, confusion, heat and fear mingled within the swirl of emotions that crossed it. He asked her a question and yet Charm was afraid to answer, her voice wasn't there. No, her voice was gone and as he came to find her mound, Charmaine shuttered. Her bottom lip quivering as she felt the electric feeling of his hand so close. Her face was now a brilliant red, her breathing was ragged as she realized, just what he wanted from her. Charmaine's mind was reeling, she didn't understand the emotions she was feeling or the feeling that made her mound ache. Still she knew enough to know this was intimate. What he was doing was no innocent, nor did he make it come across as anything but what he was intending. Exploring his new pet. As he agreed with her food assessment and pulled away, Charmaine felt herself gasp, his sudden disappearance from where he was taken her off guard. What was that?! She thought in surprise. James offered his hand, and it took Charm a moment before she took it. An uncomfortable dampness between her thighs. Her brows furrowed at the new feeling. She felt safe and yet an excited buzz played beneath her skin. He didn't stay by her side, he removed his hand and then just walked out of the room. She followed, because he had spoken of food, and it seemed like he wanted her to. So, she did. Only a few steps behind his as she glanced around his home. Once they slipped into the kitchen. She let out a breath she had been holding without realizing. Oops. Charm swallowed, trying to push away the lump that had formed. She found herself a spot on his counter. Hopping up and sitting against the cold granite. She looked him over and let out a small huff. "Eggs, toast and fruit sound good." She purred as him as her stomach flipped. She really had not had good food for so long. Furthermore, she bounced her feet a little, watching as he moved across the kitchen. Furthermore, she chewed her bottom lip as she gazed at him with those blue orbs. Her tongue pressing behind her lips as she debated a moment. "James... may I ask questions?" She whispered at him. Her eyes furrowed as she tried to figure out just why he wanted her. What was the purpose of this deal. He hadn't really laid anything out for her yet. She needed answers. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. She seemed unable to hide her emotions. Her face ripped and pinched with each reaction to his words and his actions. She wore her out proudly, not even bothering to hide her annoyance with him. It was cute, the bratty attitude she had that came with ease. It was hard to fake, and James knew too many women who eventually rolled out of it in order to be pleased – ultimately that's what they wanted. And it wasn't to say that James didn't seek out pleasure; he enjoyed sex, very much. But it wasn't enough to shack up with a woman whenever he pleased and when she was so willing. It took the fun out of it, his need to win his partner over or break them into submitting and professing how badly they wanted him. It bored him. But even he knew that he was protecting himself as best as he could. He had a few friends he was loyal to and Griselda was probably one of his staff members that he could consider as close to family as anyone. But seeing as how he was raised, he had no interest in loving or trusting anyone to that extent. There had to be some sense of detachment on his side, but as far as Charmaine, he was excited to see her experience the highest of the highs and some of the lows – the extent of pain her body could handle under his hand was just as much pleasure. He paused when opening the fridge, a carton of eggs in his hands. James turned his head to peer at her over his shoulder. Discontent etched in his frown. He was only briefly softened by the nervous energy she gave off and the sight of her dainty figure perched on the edge of his granite counter. She carried herself still like the ethereal little fairy, but more freely. "Yes, you may – firstly. . .that huffing you're doing will only serve to get you into trouble. He wouldn't confirm whether that was good or bad. And he was curious to discover what Charm would find herself actually enjoying. He decided to start with preparing the fruit for her, something to nibble on while he busied at the stove. Admittedly, he was pulled toward her. Getting his hands on her earlier had only made him a bit more eager to be with her. James grabbed a bowl and placed it on top of a cutting board with the selected fruits. At the counter, he set the fruits in place for when he'd begin chopping them up: strawberries, watermelon, and pineapples. Though, had started the task of removing the grapes in front of their vines first. James curled his brow toward Charmaine. "You get three questions for now. Then breakfast." There was no way he could explain everything to her in one sitting and this was a conversation he didn't want Griselda walking in on. The last thing he needed was a bunch of 'why's' before he even had a chance to show her the room. . . Now that he was sure would drivel a bunch of questions out of her. James didn't intend to overwhelm her at first, no matter how tempting it was thinking of her tied up. . . Patience, he reminded himself. But would he pretend he didn't notice the way she pressed her thighs together, each lithe rubbing sending a waft of her scent around him with how close he was to her. Code by Promethean Charmaine Charm let her eyes flick down to her knees that peeked out from under the large shirt. Blue eyes narrowed, and her cheeks flushed slightly. What did he mean? The small breath she had let out. Charmaine shifted on the counter and frowned. Get her in trouble? Did that mean she wasn't in trouble yet? "S-sorry.", Came the barely audible response to the male as her brows furrowed. Her eyes glued to her knees as her feet slightly swung back and forth. Trouble for Charm meant just that. For the FAE there was no 'good' trouble, nor had she ever picked up on it from her iron prison. Still, this was different and though she thought she had been good at reading others, maybe it had just been her previous masters, because James was impossible to read. He came next to her and was prepping fruit. She glanced over at it and she eyed the delightful looking snacks. How long had it been? She hadn't had fruit... any real food honestly. It had been so long it felt like a fantasy looking in that bowl and knowing that he was preparing it for her. She kept her eyes down, looking over the counter, the bowl and her knees, but bringing her gaze up didn't happen. In fact, she was actively avoiding James' gaze. Three was hardly enough, but his voice was resolute and nothing in her wanted to push this man to get rid of her. She began to worry her bottom lip as she ran through the questions she wanted to ask. After all which were the most important to her?" Most people avoid fairy deals, just using us. I was on deaths' door, but I still could have been of use to you easily for fifty more years before I died, even if I slept most of it.", She paused and finally brought her gaze up to him. "Why did you m-make a deal with me? Even if it is not soul binding as a fairy deal, magic binding is not simple, or easy to break. So... why?", Charmaine could help the worried look in her gaze as she looked at him. The minute his gaze would meet hers the fairy would look down to where he chopped his fruit. She wasn't sure if she wanted the answer, after all, when they had been upstairs, and he had touched her she knew there was more to this deal than she had previously imagined. He had bound her in a way she had no idea if it would be full of consequences or not? If he answered her question vaguely, she might just pout again. Still, she didn't dare clarify and use up her other two questions. Charmaine now fiddled with the end of the shirt, rubbing and twisting the fabric, still chewing her lip as she let the questions tumble through her head. "I understand you want obedience, that there will be punishment if I don't listen. What I don't understand is the implications behind what you want." Her brows furrowed, and she felt her heart kick up a notch. "You don't seem willing to go into details, so...", She fell short of asking the questions she wanted. Charm was really struggling. If she had been left to ask as much as she wanted, she would have asked every little question, instead she was struggling to find a vague enough question to find some semblance of answers. "How do you plan to use me?", she finally let the words spill from her lips. After all, at this point she could feel his gaze on her. That intense gaze she didn't quite mind. Finally, she braved the awkward air and pulled her head up to let her eyes lock on his. Her thighs clenched tightly, and she recalled the look from the bedroom as his hands had roamed her hidden body. She felt the lump in her throat hold and much to her shock her nipples hardened beneath the shirt. Firm pebbles pressing against the smooth fabric. The friction made her mind race, and she felt the brilliant burning on her cheeks and the back of her neck. How was she even breathing? "If we meet others, what do I tell them I am to you?", she let out breathlessly. Her mind was racing. How did he manage such a reaction out of her. It had been less than 24 hours. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. James paused, teasing the grape in the air before popping it into his mouth. She was correct, his own power would've been amplified with her own – there was nothing like fairy magic. Still, as someone who had essentially broken the key to happiness. . . There were some things that didn't feel as authentic with magic. James didn't even like to use it on the women he had been with and fortunately, he hasn't ended it, except recently. That said, it hadn't been for his pleasure. Making a deal with Charmaine had essentially been on a whim, but he hadn't backed down in knowing that she could trick him. Her docile nature came naturally, but there wasn't anything for him to think that was her personality. Someone getting rid of her should've been proof enough of that. "You didn't seem much like a threat," he teased as he finally paused in his motions to pay much more attention to the conversation. He watched as her slender fingers played with the ends of his shirt, wrinkling it nervously in her hand. He had put a lot of pressure into her to try and get her point across in less than three questions. Furthermore, he was curious really in seeing if she would oblige; even the simplest commands to be followed held great importance. "I understand you want obedience, that there will be punishment if I don't listen. What I don't understand is the implications behind what you want. . . You don't seem willing to go into details, so. . ." Now was his turn to furrow his brow. She wanted to know exactly his intentions for her, and she was too impatient to wait. James doubted he would have enough time to run through everything she wanted to know. It was a lot to process in one morning, but he had to remember that a lot of this was new to Charm. He was sure it would take her more than a day to adjust to her new size alone. Her fidgeting had drawn his attention to the flush of her pink nipples, much more visible through the white dress shirt under this lighting. He abandoned his duties entirely and approached her from the front, his arms on either side and gripping the counter firmly – thereby caging her in. The sharp intake of air she grave let him know he had her full attention. Though that wasn't hard to really tell considering her blue eyes had been locked on him since he woke up. "I don't intend to treat you like a child. People will rarely ask who you are, but if there is any room for outright questioning you then that just means I'm not doing my job properly. You'd be too close to me to have to figure that out for yourself, but I guess the easiest way to put it for the public is a friend." James drew a hand towards her leg, pushing up slowly until he met her upper thigh. His thumb was trained inward, stroking gently as he tried to process his thoughts. "What we truly are isn't meant for the public anyway. As far as I'm concerned, a simple, mine. . . My toy – my Charmaine is the only way I can put it." James continued the slow push of his hand upward, hardening between the legs as he stole each urge to move from her. She was still, paralyzed by touch and expectant. The urge to take her in this very moment was too strong. "Sex." He finally said in the softest whisper. There was a much more eloquent way he was sure he could put it, make it sound sweeter and gentler. But while there would be some tender moments shared between the two of them, he hoped, James had no intentions to lie to her. "Raw, aching, copious amounts of it. When I want and how I want it. Giving you whatever you wished to have and convince you to relinquish any sense of autonomy to me was all I thought about when I made that deal with you. I've asked plenty of women to submit to me, and I could have anyone do it if I wanted. But I wanted you. Does that answer your questions?" By now James was but inches from her face, her breath tickling through the unruly hairs of his unbrushed beard. He reached for a grape then and drew It to her mouth. "Open." Shocking her into silence would help for the time being. He wasn't going to keep her in the dark for very long though. Code by Promethean Charmaine lifted her eyes, watching how he reacted to her. She couldn't help but stare at him when he mentioned she didn't seem like a threat. It was odd, it brought her to chew her bottom lip. Unsure if she should be proud or embarrassed at the fact. She flicked her eyes over him as he stopped working with the fruit. She glanced over it and wondered if she could have some. After watching him take a grape she wanted to know what the little purple skinned fruit would taste like. She was hyper fixated on the way his mouth moved when he ate it, dragging her eyes back up to his when he suddenly was moving. She shifted as he took the spot in front of her. Without any thoughts her legs parted and gave him space. The heat that rolled off of him had her thoroughly distracted. She had hardly noticed her breath hitch. His proximity has a simple light shade of pink on her cheeks as she watched him. Was he unhappy with her questions? The FAE shifted with those blue eyes locked onto his. Letting her gaze flick over his features, but more so she was taking in every shade of his iris. The darker and lighter tones, the way his pupil slightly dilated at he answered her. Right! He was answering her questions. She needed to focus. Public, what did he mean by that? She narrowed her eyes, and it only lasted seconds before those blue eyes were suddenly wide. His hand was hot, searing her skin in a way she had forgotten was possible. How many years had it been since she had another person touch her. Her cheeks heated and darkened ever so slightly in shade as she recalled the bedroom. The space that his hand had taken and the sound he had drawn from her. Heart thrumming in her chest erratically, and she held her breath unsure she could breathe with the way his thumb felt. He body let out an involuntary shiver of delight had the attention. Her mind a whirlwind of confusion and... was this need? Why was she needy for this touch?! What he said next had her eyes flicking over his features to trying and determine if he was just pulling her leg. His. It was possessive and not in a way that she minded. She didn't feel like an object when he said it. She didn't feel like a toy, even when he had so plainly put it that way. No, the way his words rolled off of his tongue, caressing her ears, sending a shiver up her spine and bringing a small whine from her lips that she didn't understand in the slightest. Sex. It had her quivering, her hips shifting as she suddenly felt too still. The idea of sex hadn't been on her mind in so long. No human had ever tried to let her be full size. Glances over her nude body, comments on her in a sexual manner, but never once had a single one laid a finger on her. No, James was the only one who had touched her in both FAE and human form. Her heart was thundering against her ribs and her eyes had become heavy with want. Her breathing faltered, becoming deep soft pants as his words crawled along her like he was dragging his tongue up her body. Furthermore, her eyes never once leaving his as he explained what he wanted, what he saw and what he was going to take. She liked it. The grape came to her lips, and she didn't even hesitate to part them. Letting her pink lip wrap around the small fruit. The small burst of flavor shook her from her shock and her eyes drifted down to where his hand rested on her upper thigh. His thumb so close to the throbbing heat he had created. She was left with a singular question to all his answers. One thing that rolled in her mind and threatened to slip off her tongue. Why had he wanted her? She recalled his eyes, the way he had stared at her since she had been roused from her slumber. The allured look as he watched her small body slip into his palm. She felt how drawn she was to him, and she wondered if he felt the same pull and that is what led them here. After all, he had just informed her that he could have anyone, so why had he chosen the small fairy that randomly appeared? Why had he chosen a magical creature close to death and offer her a deal? The questions rolled around in her mind, threatening to spill over as she desperately wanted the answer. No. She had asked her three questions, he had only allowed her three. Most wouldn't respect those boundaries or wouldn't be able to contain what Charm felt. Still the fairy was restrained. Holding those wild thoughts and needs in as she shifted. The movement of her hips moved his fingers close. She was throbbing with a need she hadn't felt in so long that it felt new. She licked her bottom lip as the sweet taste of the grape still played on her tongue. "I just have more questions, to be honest." she whispered back to his all too close face. "However, the questions I did ask have answered a small portion." She watched her breath move his beard hairs, and then those blue eyes flicked back up to his eyes. He was beyond alluring, and she didn't know why. "But I asked my three questions, so now it's breakfast. I will try to be patient." She admitted softly, letting him know with a simple phrase that she wanted so badly to ask more. Still, she rolled her tongue around her mouth tasing the grape. "I liked what you gave me. Thank you." She muttered. Without meaning to her fingers hand migrated from her own shirt. Fiddling with the band of his sweatpants. It had no meaning, as Charm had little idea of what she was doing with her finger. A nervous fidgeted she didn't have a clue where her hand was, or what it could lead someone to believe. Her want to taste his lips was strong, and her mind was racing with new information, questions that were left to multiple and a heart that wouldn't stop trying to rip out of her chest. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. He noticed the way her cheeks flushed, how her. Breathing became much more labored as she struggled to tear her eyes away from him. She didn't even question what he brought to her lips if she couldn't see it herself. He gave a small smile at the sight of them parting, how her tongue grazed just the tip of his finger. God, he wanted to taste her. He hungered to press his lips against hers and feel her again between he legs, how wet he could sense she was getting from the way she had been watching him. He wasn't sure if she really understood what was going on, had she been intimate with anyone before? James felt himself grow firmer in his sweats. He was becoming impatient. "Good girl." He cradled her cheek and gently tapped her cheek before pulling back. James started back on dealing with the rest of the fruit. "I liked what you gave me. Thank you." "You're welcome." He nudged the bowl filled with fruit toward her. "Here, nibble on this, and I'll get the rest sorted." It didn't take that long for him to get breakfast ready. He made sure Charmaine had her plate before him. Just as he was finishing up, he got the alert that the front door was approached by Griselda who had her own personal purse and a tote bag dangling from her wrist, while the other held a cup of tea. The ring camera captured her entering, and he could hear the scratching sound of her flats coming nearer. "I promise I'll answer more later, when we're in a more private setting." It wasn't that Griselda didn't know that James had his. . . Ways about him. She was never present for the activities, but there had been occasions where she was called back late nights or earlier than usual in the morning to make him and his guest breakfast or dinner. And she very well couldn't ignore the dark coloring on their wrists, or how shifty the woman would be in her seat, aching from a sore bottom. There were some she was used to seeing quite often and over time, they were switched out for a new woman. However, very were rarely they just sprung on her and certainly, she had never known James to cook for them in any way. So, it was a bit shocking to see him at the stove, frying eggs while the sprightly redhead nibbled pleasantly from her selection of fruit. James finished plating his breakfast and gave a smile toward Griselda. "G-good morning." She said, her almond shaped eyes passed between the two. Griselda had seen James naked on more than one occasion, while handsome, she wasn't really phased by him walking around without a shirt on. Though, there was a certain tension in the kitchen that made her consider if she had walked in on something much more intimate than breakfast. "Good morning Griselda. This is Charm, Charm this is Griselda. She's. . . Hmm, nearly the woman of the house." Griselda chuckled and placed her cup of tea down. By now James had taken a seat at the kitchen island Griselda placed the bags she brought on a rack on the wall beside the fridge. She removed her jacket and started toward the stove, already preparing to do the dishes. She paused to wave at the woman – she was certainly much prettier than the woman he tended to go after. Though Griselda couldn't say that Charm and the woman James dated could ever be compared. She looked more ethereal, a natural beauty. Her dark lashes gave the impression she wore mascara at least, but there was something about her soft freckled face to lead Griselda to believe. . . She was just one of those women who woke up that way. The others, even as natural as they appeared, it was easy to mark who work done. Who woke up, likely, fifteen or so minutes before Hunter to brush their teeth, curl their hair a bit or pinch their cheeks for that kind of pretty version of rolling straight out of bed? "She is like a personal assistant outside my work. Cleaning, cooking, anything I need. She will be happy to help you as well. Charm will be our guest, for some time." Living with them was a whole other thing and James could only smile at Griselda's shocked expression. She pointed toward the bags. "I brought a few clothes like you asked. It's pretty cold out, so mostly pants and a long sleeve. Some shoes." She had almost decided against bringing the pair of boots, she couldn't fit them. A quick peek at Charm's tiny bouncing foot suggested she would be able to. "Thank you. I will be going out later anyway." He looked toward Charm and placed his hand on her knee. "I'm going to handle a few business calls. I'll meet you back upstairs. I'm sure Griselda can answer any general questions you have about the house, maybe give you a better tour." "My pleasure." code by Promethean Charmaine 'Good Girl.' A praise she had never heard before in her life. She felt the hairs on her neck stand on end and her eyes widen at the words. The way a simple word or two could cause such a reaction from her was surprising. Maybe it was the look head as he watched her lips, or the fact that his finger on her thighs had tightened ever so slightly at the sight of her. The phrase was something she already loved, oddly enough. It was followed up by such a gentle touch, one she was going to find herself craving. He moved away from her and left her cold and alone and Charmaine swallowed roughly. Her heart pounded in her chest, and he slid more fruit to her. When he gave her permission, she looked a bit giddy, and her blue eyes lit up. She hummed out in excitement and began to pick at the fruit as he cooked. Her gaze switching between what he was doing and what she was picking out of the bowl he had given her. Licking her fingers before she slipped from the counter and took the offered plate and went to a barstool to sit properly to eat. Charm was fairly well-mannered, and she grabbed a fork taking a bite of the eggs before she heard the small ding on his phone. He watched the way he responded and noted the arrival of the new female as she entered the house. She had nodded at him when he spoke of answering her later. Was this woman included in his description of 'public'? No. She was something entirely different. Introduced Charm smiled at the woman, tilting her head in a greeting. "Pleasure." she hummed and then took another bite. As James explained what the woman was to him, she hummed her understanding. The small fluxing in her tone was becoming a tell about the small FAE and her way of communicating. She watched the silent interaction between the two and cocked her brow as she took another bite. Curious, she knew him well enough that simple smiles, nods and glances communicated what he wanted without any verbal communication. She wasn't sure how she felt about being cut out, but then again it wasn't hers to know. So she ate her food and just patiently and observantly watched. His touch had her unconsciously moving toward him. Sliding to the edge of her seat, craving to feel his touch. She was far too needy for the affection after being trapped within that cage for so long. His touch was addictive, like a hit of drugs that made her skin sing. His magic pulsing and causing her own magic swirl and greet it. Like a kiss of powers to energize the soul. Charm nodded and chewed her bottom lip. Glancing to the woman and the clothes. Yet the little FAE hated the idea of removing his shirt, his scent not something she cared to lose. A small noise left Charm's throat at the idea, and she looked back to James. Being separated, left with an unfamiliar face Charm could feel herself shifting. Could she even tell this woman she was a fairy? As James slipped away and left Charmaine alone with the woman, charm stayed fairly quiet. Eyeing the new face and listening to the way she spoke. Still everything in Charm fought this, her connection with James making her a bit dependent on him. She dist know how to function unless she was in an iron cage or glued to his side. She finished her breakfast and came to see that Griselda was doing. So charm rubbed her plate and loaded it much to the dismay of the woman. Charm furrowed her brows, having no idea how things works. "Did I do something wrong?" She whispered out and chewed her bottom lip more frantically. Griselda was assuring and gentle as Charmaine agreed to the tour, being shown around the house, each room, and then she was left the bag of clothes in 'her' room. Charm sat in the room, running a finger over the sheets and blanket as she looked over the nice quality. She huffed and turned to the bag, digging through what she had brought. Her fingers landing upon a simple sweater dress. The fabric felt nice between her fingers, soft and cozy. She slowly unhooked good short and shoved it by her pillow. She didn't want to give it back, maybe it would be okay. Barefoot and in the dress with nothing else, she felt clothed enough to approach James again. Wait, she was going to his room? Or was there another? Off she went to find the room, though maybe she could ask Griselda where he could be found. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. Had Griselda peeked under the sheet of the cage she brought in? Definitely. Though, it couldn't – she couldn't actually believe that the woman in the cage was the same woman that was sitting at the kitchen island, no matter how similar they looked. She figured that maybe the cage held some sort of like toy. James was always interested in certain oddities, especially if they had a strange sense of beauty about them. Though Charm's beauty was far from strange, it was more of the ethereal like energy surrounding her. She didn't believe in magic or well not the magic that was described in books and movies. She was a religious person, spiritual and so it would be wrong to completely discount the possibility that there was more to life than just paying bills and war and the likes; why couldn't there be some aspect of fantasy in their world? The thought didn't really linger. She was too busy cleaning up and by the time she returned to ask Charmaine if she had finished, Griselda was surprised she was nearly to bump into the young woman. They were similar in height which made it hard to ignore her bright blue eyes – they twinkled a glimmered like sunlight danced along the top of a pool's surface. "Oh no nothing wrong, just – you did nothing." She promised Charm as she rinsed off the plate before putting it into the dishwasher aligned with the others. She dried her hands and began to take Charm on a tour. Furthermore, she seemed fairly familiar with everything already, though she figured James just needed some time apart to get himself schedule. Furthermore, she peeped him standing inside his office, looking at his planner as he went on and on during his phone call about rearranging his daily schedule. Furthermore, she offered to help with a bath. Maybe brush her hair or well help with anything, but Charmaine denied. She seemed much more anxious the more time that passed since being left alone with her. So, she at last saw to it that she was settled with her clothes before approaching James who was just coming out of his bedroom. He had changed into a pair of dark blue jeans and a cream-colored sweater. His hair was wet, and he smelled of peppermint, which she took to mean he had taken a very quick shower. "She's in her room." James paused at the top of the stairs, turning then to face Griselda who was coming down. "How is she?" "Quiet." Griselda played with the ring on her finger. She wanted to ask, curious about whether her thoughts were true. But she had always known to keep out of James' business unless he asked for her opinion. "Are you alright?" She paused, nibbling gently on her bottom lip before offering him a smile and nodding. "Quite alright. Just a crazy morning. Will you be here for the whole day?" James shook his head. "We'll be out, so you have the whole day to yourself. You can leave early if you wish as well. Maybe we'll have dinner in the Square." Griselda mentioned she would be on standby in case his plans changed. He headed upstairs, the brown boots he wore just slightly loud against the wooden floor until he approached the bedroom. James hovered his fist, wondering if it is really necessary to knock in his own home. Still, he gave her the courtesy of privacy and after a moment opened d the door to peek in. "Well look at you, it seems we're matching." He chuckled as he took in the sight of her in the sweater dress. She was braless still, he could tell by the soft teardrop shape of her breasts just barely made out through the knitted fabric. He wondered if Griselda didn't bring undergarments or if Charm purposely chose to go without. It did make him curious whether she was wearing underwear or not. Her hair was wild, untamed red waves that draped across her shoulders and near mid back. "Well, hopefully Griselda answered most of your questions, if any." James looked own to see her bare feet. "Didn't she bring shoes?" He motioned for her to take a seat before digging in the bag. He could spot his shirt peeking from beneath the pillow and smirked. "Suppose I can live without one shirt." He pulled out the boots, made of a soft water-resistant fabric but with fur on the inside. "If we're going out, you're going to need something on your feet." He kneeled raising the shoe in response to get her to raise her foot. James used his free hand to push back the darkened strands of his hair, barely dry. "I know this is still all pretty new to you, but if there is anything you really want, be sure to tell me, and I'll be sure to make it happen today." He thought about the curio user expression she had earlier. "You have more questions now that we're alone I figure?" code by Promethean Charmaine was about to walk out the door, to start hunting the man she was connected to. Then there was a knock. The little FAE froze. Her eyes locking on the wooden rectangle that separated the rooms. Charm had refused help from the woman, seeing as the red-haired FAE wasn't used to such things. Hundreds of years fending for herself. The amount of verbal and physical abuse had left her extremely weary of any human. Though Griselda seemed nice enough, Charm didn't really trust her. James had her trust due to sheer luck and a binding that kept the two connected in a way others couldn't see. When James opened the door, the FAE stared at him, watching him slip into the room and she narrowed her eyes. She looked from him and then down at her own cream-colored sweater dress. She smoothed her hands down her skirt, and she looked back at him. "I guess we do." She hummed, slightly curious. A soft shrug took hold of her shoulders. "I really don't know enough about this world to ask her anything. I spend hundreds of years in an iron cage. I don't understand what a human would ask." She admitted softly. Watching the man as he asked for shoes. "Shoes? I hardly wear clothes, FAE don't need shoes." She muttered back and wrinkled her nose. Walking over she sat down, looking at him as he dug through the bag that was brought for her. When he mentioned living without a shirt, Charm's face lit up. A beet red color taking hold, and she quickly looks away. "I like how you smell... It's comforting." She muttered, quite embarrassed, but what was the point in hiding it if he had already seen? She chewed her bottom lip, still not prepared to make eye contact. The movement he made caught her attention. She glanced to the shoe in his hand and then raised her foot. "Then I guess I must wear them." She slipped her foot into the boot, her eyes finally drifting up to meet his. She repeated the process as she lifted her other foot up and put it into the boot. "I... it is hard to decided what I want to ask first." She grumbled and chewed her bottom lip a little more aggressively. "You are drawn to me and I to you, but I still don't understand what you want from me." She drew her brows together and sighed. "You want me for sex, but there'd be more than that to it. I've seen men driven by sex, men blinded by lust and that is not the way you look at me." She shifted in her seat before she continued. "You offer me things, take care of me and I don't know how to deal with it. I don't know what I want. I want to ask so many things, but when you ask me like that they all seem unimportant." She took a deep breath that came out in a shutter. "Can I just ask as we go? I'll be careful who is around." She now was making direct eye contact, and it made her shrink. He had this power with his gaze that she didn't understand. She was sure he got a nice peek up her skirt while he put on her boots. She didn't mind it, in fact she kind of craved the feeling of his hands. Less than a night with this man and he had her wanting him to touch her. She felt needy, and it was an odd, uncomfortable feeling. "James... can you teach me... anything. I want to be useful. I want to blend in. Furthermore, I feel as if I stand out too much. Do I stand out too much?" She shrank into her seat and frowned, wondering if she was asking too much. .code by Promethean. James Leviathan. James noticed the way her face twisted and twitched at the feeling and sight of the boots on her feet. They were nearly a perfect fit, just a couple inches shy of being too small. He didn't suspect she would be growing any time soon, though it would be easier to get her a new pair. Honestly it'd be best for her to do her own shopping, looking around and getting a feel for what she considered more her style or at least easier to wear. Clothing and shoes didn't seem to be her speed, but if she expected to go out then it was something that she would just have to become comfortable with. He reached for the next shoe, grunting slightly as he struggled physically to restrain himself: her question in all sense was the same one she had asked him before during breakfast. He gently let her foot come to rest and stood upward. She dwarfed in size already, so much so he considered maybe it was just the way they were positioned. She still sat in the bed with her arms so closely tucked to her side as though glued together. Her head stopped just slightly below his pecs, directly in the middle of his abandoned. But she shrunk further he noticed, a habit it seemed when it came to facing him straight on. He wasn't surprised by her timidness, nor seemingly the way she seemed to flinch at a slight raise of his hand or a change in his own facial expression. It was knowing she was slightly nervous around him that made James aware he must mind his frustration. Getting angry with her because he was impatient definitely wouldn't come in handy when he needed her trust for what he had in mind. Control. Anyone could say they were a leader, a dominant — but it all came down to how well you were able to control — and not just your submissive, but yourself as well. Losing your temper, sight of the fact that the tender line of pain and pleasure was the boundary. . . As opposed to direct pain; it was a skill that took practice and not many could actually say they had. So his expression softened, and he offered what he believed was a big enough smile. Though a straight line, the corners lifted and there with the crooked smile came the sight of the crescent dimple in his cheek. But his hands were flexed before becoming right muscles in his pockets and eventually releasing. "You're eager to learn. I can see that and I respect it. Yes, what I want is sex. But not just sex. If I wanted that, I could very well find and pay a woman for that. What I want is different. Asking me about it in several different ways won't make me produce an answer any sooner." He sighed out and stretched his fingers through his hair. "It's just not something easily explained. Not for you at least I'm sure when all of this," he motioned the surrounding space with his hands. "Is new to you in general. Let's get through this first and if I feel you're ready. . . I'll explain the rest later?" He was ready to go but was stopped by Charm. "You're more than a thing. Your use to me is sexually, but you're not just made for that. Surely you were someone or something else before you were confiscated by man." He had no clue the details of her life before or whether she had simply been born in captivity. Ever curious, James made note to take more time to open the floor to question himself. They'd more than enough time however rather than treat this as some chunk of time to dedicate to exposition. Walking over, he extended his hands outward to grab hold of her shoulders. James hands drew down her arms in a soothing up and down motion. "You look fine, better than fine actually." He turned his hands to her sides, feeling the shape of her body as the fabric became much closer to her skin. The stretch of the sweater material became snug, but was a bit too thick for him to have the proper feel of her that he liked. He continued until he reached her hips. James' palms washed over her ass and he gave a firm squeeze. There was a small smirk that he gave then in the realization that she wasn't wearing underwear. That was something he wouldn't mind if she didn't want to wear honestly. "You're bound to stand out. Haven't you ever looked at yourself ?" Even in the reflection of water or a brief look as she passed a mirror maybe and reflective surface. . . Charmaine had to know how stunning she was." He had still held his hands on her backside and instead of pulling away, James pulled her closer so that their hips kissed. "Try not to fret so much. I'll lead you and teach you properly. If you'll trust me?" Already he liked to think he proved himself trustworthy. He hadn't gone back on his word and he hadn't laid a finger on her. . .yet. "Come now, let's get out of here." code by Promethean Charmaine felt a bit misunderstood, her words had been outward confirmations, more than questions. He answered her all the same and the FAE felt her heart skip a beat. 'Not just sex.' Implied a lot of things, it could imply nothing at all. She was bound to him in many ways, and she looked to her feet that now had the boots. She chewed her bottom lip as she looked at them and he continued his answer. "I didn't mean to ask again." She muttered back, but her voice was below a whisper, no intentions of being heard by the male. It was more of a statement for herself as she felt as if she had crossed him once more. She didn't want to push him, didn't want him to not want her. Being left for dead at a strangers steps had been a blessing, but who was to day it would turn out so well the next time she was abandoned? She let those bright blues come back and watch the way his finger trailed through his beautiful locks. She let out a soft breath as his explanation continued. Furthermore, she followed his gestures and eyes suddenly filled with understanding. Furthermore, she hardly understood everything around her, it wasn't wrong to assume whatever complex human explanation he had would fly over her head. He was quite brilliant, observant, or Charm had lost her brain while kept within that cage. For the FAE she felt a shame settle within her chest as she realized just how much she didn't know. How her questions had been so similar. Her hands clasped together, and her fingers twisted over one another as she chewed her lip harder, working the soft flesh and causing it to redden. She could nod, but the action seemed to fade into the smallest flick of her chin. She was conflicted, unsure if any question should leave her mouth that hadn't already. He would explain later, she had to wait. Her past suddenly brought up her blue eyes flicked up, and her mouth gaped slightly as she released her reddened bottom lip. Centuries and the memories had become a lifeline. She dreamed of the fey Wilds, the dresses and food, the celebrations and royal classes. She had been a princess, royalty of the FAE. A product of dark and light who had been exploring her world, her options. Still, the memories were old, not as crisp or vibrant. It took a moment for the woman to even recall how it felt to be important. She had been someone, but she wasn't sure why that mattered here. Wasn't she is object? He spoke of her not being a thing, a bit after being one for so long, after being used for so long, how could one remember that it wasn't always like this. She had slipped off the end of the bed, ready to move, but he had turned back to her after the question. The small woman wasn't sure how this reassurance really settled, but that look in his eyes, that soft, caring look that had her insides quivering. The touch acted as a sharp yank, pulling her from the mindless wandering and grounding her. Charm looked up at James, really taking in the man as he assured her. His touch welcome as he rubbed her arms. She let out a soft hum of delight. His hands wandered, slipping over her in a way that had her looking, searching his gaze. Those large palms hit her side's and her eyes fluttered trying to remember, she was going to respond to his words. She felt praised, like he really felt she was special. He hit her hips and she purred, a soft sound, one that could have been easily missed. His hands grabbed her round ass, fingers kneading into her flesh, getting a good grip which left Charm letting out a small gasp. Her eyes rolled back, and she felt the crimson color take hold of her cheeks. "I have, but I don't see what you do. I suppose." She mumbled and whimpered as his had lingered on her plump ass. An eager sound left her throat as he pulled them together. "O-okay." She agreed in a breathless voice as her fingers graced his hips. Her touch was feather-light as her breath stuttered out. He spoke of leaving and Charm gave a nod of her head. When he finally released her the small FAE took it upon herself to slip her hand into his, unwilling to lose the contact they seemed to just keel. She followed him to the car, but not before her eyes lingered on the outdoors. She took a deep breath of the fresh morning air, her eyes sparkling with wonder. Furthermore, she stumbled a bit as she had forgotten to keep her feet moving at one point. Furthermore, she was led to the car and slipped into the passenger seat, though she hadn't been aware seatbelts were a thing. Buckled in, she watched James slip into his own seat, but soon her eyes were no longer on him, instead she took in the outdoors. Her eyes full of excitement as she made small sounds at each thing that caught her interest. She hardly seemed to notice much else besides everywhere her eyes flicked to. Until they moved to fast and her eyes would find the floor. .code by Promethean

All I Need is Your Soul|rating:3.0

Kiric's Bedchambers within the Temple

(minus the electrical equipment lol)Eric carried the wounded demon to his bed, a lone island in the middle of a pool of water. Laying her down, he let the clerics resume their work, standing back until he was needed. "Do you often get many wounded here?" He already knew the answer, but some force drove him to ask. Looking around, Beria had done well setting him up here. Though the room itself was well lit, the water around his bed created just enough shadows that he could be able to conjure up whatever he needed. The woman that helped the angel carry Sarah to his bed, nodded, but they were rarely this bad, and she said as much. "We do, but it's not anything like this Eric. Normally they have a broken arm or a shattered kneecap or something, but nothing like her extensive wounds that she carried all the way here it seems. Are you sure you can help her? No offense but I thought immortals weren't affected by a succubus's draining effect? Are you....considered an immortal or a more powerful human equivalent? I...don't mean to pry, but if that's the case then it will have to be me that gives her the energy she needs." The cleric said, though she wasn't sure in either case and so was making sure before they committed to a course. "It's..... kinda of a gray area. I guess I'm still immortal, but I have been here on the surface for longer than I care to remember." He nodded, knowing of what she was speaking of, though he dreaded the thought. "I don't like the idea of you risking yourself though. I may be immune to her effects, but that does not mean I can not willingly transfer some of my own. Besides, I would recover long before you would." "If you're worried about my soul going down for this Eric, you needn't be. Anything intimately involving this woman might drain our life force, but I have rarely heard of anyone actually dying from them. As for the rest, my honest wish to help this woman, this demon if you prefer will protect our souls from becoming darker. It's when you feel guilt or break your morals is when you have to worry." Still, the priestess appreciated Eric's concern as she started to rise. "You concern isn't wasted on me Eric. You're right, the energy loss would probably put me down for a bit longer than you. Take care of yourself, I'll be sure to send Beria later if you wish." "Thank you. I might need her help later, but for now, if I can just get enough to help her..." He paused for a moment. "Although, to be honest, I really have no clue how to just yet. My training just started here, so I'm still not certain of what to do to help." He cursed at himself a bit. If this had been a battlefield, he would have known exactly what to do, but being a healing temple, he was way out of his league right now. "So, I guess I do need some help then." The priestess understood his concern, knowing that he didn't know the healing spells needed to help here. "It's ok. She's stable, but she needs energy. A kiss will be enough here, but if Beria doesn't do so soon, I'll show you the spells you might need to know should something like this happens again. Immortals like her, lesser or greater, use the energy they can take from a human to fuel their powers and healing abilities." She replied, staying on hand just in case it truly wasn't enough as she looked between the two, hoping it would be enough. Eric nodded. "A kiss then. I just hope she doesn't wake up and slug me for this." He smirked, leaning down, lightly placing his lips to the demons. It wasn't long before he felt his body growing slightly weaker, as his own strength was pulled from his body to hers. Still, he knew he was in no real danger, he only had to give her enough to help her heal. His wings fluttered a bit before starting to relax down, draping over his body. Sarah moaned quietly as she let Eric kiss her, feeling the energy transfer start in earnest when she started to actively participate. Her remaining wounds healed and closed up right before their eyes, and the succubus saw glimpses of the angel's life as well as his current feelings and thoughts. He was pure, but there were no personal morals being broken nor guilt to damn him, which set the demon at ease as she slowly put a hand to the back of his neck without any conscious thought of her own. Startling herself with that action, thinking him someone completely different at the time, Sarah recoiled and opened her eyes, startled more so by where she was. "Who...are you people? Where am I?" Her form changed to one she preferred to use every day rather than the one she had been born with which she had forsaken out of personal choice since it brought up too many painful memories. Her hair darkened and shortened, her figure shifted a bit, and her skin changed to a bit more of a healthy looking color than before where she had been pale as a ghost some would say, or more akin to a living statue. Furthermore, her clothes she didn't bother with, preferring them torn up rather than shape-shifted like the rest of her. They just...weren't the same to her eyes otherwise. "I'm....sorry you had to find me like that. It...was nice of you to heal me...though I wish there had been another way."" A succubus that doesn't like what she is?" The priestess asked, surprise etched on her face as she looked between the two. "I'm sorry ma'am, it's none of my business. Eric, I need to run. Miss, you're in good hands, I promise you." The demon didn't doubt the lady's words as she walked away, leaving the two alone." It's...true, about what she said. Sorry. I got so caught up at the moment I didn't even tell you my name. It's... Sarah Anderson...at least it is in this time at any rate. Don't...ask for my real name. I'd...rather not share anything about my ancient past if I can help it....even though you have every right to ask considering you and her I'm guessing did save my ass." Sarah said, leaning back into the covers and turning away, though she wasn't dismissing Eric in the least, just she didn't want him to see the tears in her eyes for how grateful she was for what they had done without asking anything in return....so far anyway. Still, she had gotten a taste of his soul, and Sarah knew there never would be a price to be repaid here. She...felt truly safe here...though her personal life was gone to Hell at the moment.(Eric had felt a little drained, but he sat down and listened to her speak. "Do not worry Sarah. You need not expose anything you do not wish to. I can understand not wanting to discuss your past." He started to reach over, placing a hand on her shoulder. "My name is Eric. I am a guardian of sorts, as well as a trainee here. So be assured, you are in safe hands, and nothing will be asked of you." He smirked, standing up and moving to the edge of the little platform, sliding into the water, still clothed. That intrigued her as Sarah wiped her eyes and turned over, seeing him slide into the water. She had gotten hints but nothing concrete as she looked to the angel before her. He had fallen in a sense, yet he still had the aura of a mostly pure angel as if he never fell completely, just had been exiled to wander the Earth. How did such a thing happen? "It's great to meet you Eric. I know I probably don't have a right to ask....but what happened? You feel like an angel, save for a small amount of taint inside your aura, yet you don't feel like the truly fallen....not like me anyway or an angel that has fallen to Hell." She expected him to not answer her questions, though her face showed hope that he would as she considered joining him in the water but didn't just yet. Eric paused a moment, standing still in the water, his back to her for a moment more before turning again. "You must forgive me, I was raised so long to fight you kind, that even though I know that not all demons are out to harm, it's still a bit instinct. I have nothing to hide. You are right, I am not fallen, merely exiled. Seems after the first angels fell, another of your kind tried again, taking control of one of my brethren. I was the one that struck him down, but not before the spirit lashed out, darkening my own soul. I was.... removed for my own safety." He smiled, hiding the worst part from her. "But you know, 1500 years on this planet have taught me a lot. I know how it feels to be judged just for being different." Walking up to the edge of the platform, he rested there, watching her to make sure she was OK. Sarah nodded, glad that he had shared with her his background a bit. She understood where he was coming from, but she didn't fight in the war between the two, merely supplied more souls for Hell through seduction and their eventual corruption. Still, to most a demon was a demon no matter his or her intent in the grand scheme of things, though the same could be said about the other way around. Finally deciding what she wished to do, the succubus groaned as she rose from the bed and stepped down, tossing her shoes, socks, and clothes in general to let lie on the floor beside the bed before stepping into the water beside the angel that had saved her life. She didn't plan to seduce the man, not in the least, but she wouldn't tell him any either probably since she wanted a true lover and not just someone to fill her needs for energy. "I haven't been around that long....only about five hundred years myself. I...sold my soul to save another's life, nearly losing him to a most certainly fatal wound otherwise. I still had to watch him die from old age....but at least he lived out the rest of his life in peace....though he wasn't allowed to remember me after the deal was made...no one I knew was." She whispered, walking down ancient roads that were no longer there in this day and age. He had told her about himself, so it had been fair, but she didn't share anything specific as she leaned against the side of the pool and closed her eyes, turned away from Eric for the moment." I've...walked this world ever since, at the time enjoying my immortality and new powers, but the enjoyment soured after a hundred years...and I've been doing my best to take the bare minimal of good people down....going after the scum of the Earth first." She continued, knowing that he would probably damn her and himself for saving her life to continue. He was an angel after all. Eric watched her. HE couldn't help but trace her form with his eyes. Still, he saw her look. "Listen, You made the choice you thought right at the time. Sometimes our emotions make us do rash things, but that is no reason to damn anyone." He walked over, slowly coming up behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist. He knew how it felt to be damned in the eyes of others, if only because of a slight dark spot on his soul. His large, black feathered wing came around, wrapping around both of them." We can't always choose who we are, but we can always choose to do what's right, and I see that in your soul." Sarah didn't technically have a soul anymore, it's having been bought during the trade, but his words still touched her all the same. Closing her eyes at the soft touch from Eric's hands upon her waist, the succubus leaned into his embrace, needing him as she felt his wings envelop them both. "Thank you....you sound like...my ex. He saw me for who I was....not the demonic seducer but the person I used to be. We...broke up recently....and I think I went after that neophilia...to finally put an end to my existence...such as it is." She whispered without realizing or caring, knowing how lame it sounded but there it was. They couldn't write about the kind of love they had had up until a few days ago. She wanted things to go back to the way they had been before....before she had pushed him away because she was afraid of losing him due to all the supernatural crap that seem to happen around her...more than the usual anyway. Now she couldn't even have that.((Merry Christmas buddy.)) Eric only held her, not saying anything more. His soaked clothing pressing to her skin as he stood there with her. Finally, speaking up, he only offered a few words. "Sarah, you needn't end your life. You are still trying to fight against what you are. But you don't need to. You may be loath what you are, but you are doing what you see as the best you can to help." He didn't know the words to say, but he wanted to help her. All he could do at this time was to lean in, planting a light kiss on her shoulder. Sarah could only cuddle up against Eric more as he wrapped his arms around her, closing her eyes as she absorbed his words. Maybe she had been too hard on herself? She didn't like hurting innocent people, but she didn't have a choice in that if she wanted to remain on this plane of existence. Still, that didn't mean she had to be so hard on herself either because she did try to make sure she left behind as little damage as possible when seducing said good people. Looking up to the angel, an angel of all things giving a demon like her comfort, Sarah turned about in his arms and rested her head against his neck, wrapping her arms around his waist. "Thank you.... Kiric. I may not like what I am....but you're right, I try to make the best of it all." She closed her eyes, relaxing slowly as she continued to hug him close, unaware or uncaring her nude body was rubbing up against the angel's own in ways that would make most men mad with desire, if nothing else a wish to touch her own. "Worry not Sarah. That is what I am here to do." He hugged her more, his wet clothing still clinging to his body. Even as beautiful as the person before him was, he would not push. He was working her to help people, not just as a sex service, though he knew from experience that time and time again the both went hand in hand. Still, that did not stop his hands from moving along her flesh, even if it was only a skin hiding her true nature. Placing a light kiss along her neck, but backing up quickly not wanting to make her feel uncomfortable, he smirked. "Well, I've seen you uncovered, I guess it wouldn't be really fair if I didn't at least let you see your host similarly" Sarah didn't know what this place was except for a few stories from others that worked in Hell. They hadn't had a lot to say for some reason, only that they had reconsidered their choices to serve in their respective domains for a good while after coming here. It was true that the angel had seen what she had looked like when all this had started for her, but she couldn't show him again since it still held too much pain for her. It was one form she didn't dare show to anyone ever again. Still, that thought flew from her mind as the angel's hands ran across her bare skin, making her gasp quietly in the back of her throat as she nodded her agreement, peeling herself away so he could do just that, her neck tingling from his tender kiss upon her neck. "I'd...like that very much." Eric smirked again, nodding as she stepped away. He would remove his tank top first, folding his wings just enough so that it slid easily over his frame. Beneath was a well toned body, the form of a warrior and guardian. Each move was slow, allowing Sarah to take in each and every inch of his form, just as he was doing to her. Next, his pants, the black fabric slowly being removed before he tossed them both onto the platform, standing there before here, nothing hidden from view." Does this make you feel more comfortable then?" He was far from bashful, that part of his personality long since gone. Still, he couldn't help but turn a little red from standing there, letting her look over his body. The succubus was awed into silence by what she saw, and she felt her desire increase quite rapidly from the sight before her. An angel, literally, was before her, willing to share her bed if she so wished. What was it about this place that put the demon woman at peace in every sense of the word? Sarah wasn't sure as she slowly approached, unaware that Eric's training had already bestowed him with an aura of sexual ease that made things like this easier to handle for those around him, making people much more comfortable around people like Eric. It wouldn't affect their judgment at all, just they would relax far easier around them was all. Sarah didn't know this, but even if she did the end result wouldn't have changed as she nodded her approval, finally finding her voice. "I do indeed feel more comfortable Eric. You are quite handsome. I...wish to know something though. I can change my shape to anything I wish, though it does cost energy to do so, but same sex transformations are very easy for me to handle. Furthermore, I tell you this because... I wish to know if you have a personal preference. You've earned far more from me for saving my life." She replied, her own cheeks turning beet red despite how used to this kind of thing she had done for countless years. Still, for the few that knew what she was, she took orders for appearance to make things more enjoyable. Watching her approach, listening to her voice, Eric only shook his head. "I may have saved you, but you owe me nothing. You do not need to be what you are not in this place. If this is the form you prefer, then all I would ask is that you do not change that." HE took a couple steps toward her, moving his hands along the form, yet keeping them just in inch away from her skin. Each move was subtle, intentional, and all aimed to draw out each moment of pleasure. Sarah was actually glad he didn't wish another form as she stopped before him, loving how his hands just barely grazed her flesh. She didn't stop him as her eyes lit up from his attentions upon her though he hadn't technically touched her yet. Her curiosity was piqued however, wondering why he was here of all places. It just...didn't seem very angelic like even for an exile such as himself. "Don't take this the wrong way but what is an angel such as yourself doing here?" She asked, leaning against him a moment later, her lips hesitant as she grazed them across his neck, her breasts pressed up against his chest as she avoided making contact with his lips for the moment, knowing she could drain his life force with just a kiss. A few years would be lost to her touch if they went all the way, but a simple kiss, unless drawn out would be far less damaging. Still, she...didn't want to drain him at all, but such was the price she paid for being a succubus. Eric shrugged a bit, taken back a little. "Not all of us walk around with a stick up our ass." He laughed a little. "Honestly I don't know why I ended up here, but it's a way to help people out." He could see the worry in her eyes. "Do not worry, you aren't going to hurt me." He leaned in, brushing his lips lightly against hers. Sarah laughed quietly as she heard the angel's reply. She knew a couple of angels that were like Eric, but for the most part he had hit the nail on the head. Despite his reassurances, the demon woman still hesitated as she slowly turned her head away for a brief moment before his lips could make contact. Still, a more primal need in her core started to take over, and she turned back, her lips soft but hot against his own as her need took over. She moaned softly, feeling the tell-tale signs of her energy drain starting up as a small trickle for now though the more intense things got the more it would drain from her victim. Her tongue wrapped around the angel's own as she moved her lips against his, her hands trailing down his chest between them until they stopped at his length, wrapping her soft fingers around his length and gently pumping and stroking it a moment later, breaking away after sampling his life force as she had. She hoped she wasn't going to regret this later as she continued to stroke his length gently but firmly between her hands for now, planning to do so much more if he allowed. Though he could feel his own life drain, he didn't worry. He, like her, was an immortal, and even if she tried, she would never be able to drain him completely. He'd probably be sore as hell come morning though. All thoughts of that though left when she seemed to let go and join in, releasing her own strength into their embrace. Sighing into her kiss, he let her explore, touch as she wished. As soon as she reached his length though, he let out a light gasp. Smirking as she pulled away, he could only think of one thing to say. "Seems like you know what you're after. Should we retire to the bed though, might be a little more comfortable than here." He pulled her in close again, this time kissing along her neck, nipping her skin a little before adding a light lick to the little mark. Relishing the feel of his lips and tongue upon her flesh, Sarah purred as she gripped him a little more tightly, massaging his balls with her free hand as she continued to pump him firmly. Hearing his words, she looked up and had other plans, leading him to the water instead by his cock. "I think I want in the pool myself. It's been a while since I enjoyed a swim as well as a session in the sack in the same breath." She whispered, leaning down to swirl her tongue about his left nipple, gently tugging on it with her teeth before rolling it back and forth, her hand never stopping what it was doing as she slowly pulled them along into the water. Eric smiled as Sarah led him by his forward pointing member. Liking his lips as she seemed to let loose. Reaching out, he pulled her close, pressing their bodies together. As his hands moved to grip her ass, he leaned in, lips attacking her upper chest. Pulling back after a moment, he let one of his hands slip forward, worming its way between her legs to rub against her sex. Leaning back as the angel ran his lips and tongue across her upper chest, Sarah whimpered quietly as she ran her fingers through his hair, enjoying this moment. The woman gasped when she felt his fingers start to tease her opening, grinding her hips against his fingers on instinct. "Yeses...." Sarah gasped, looking into his eyes as she backed up further into the water, leaning against the wall a moment later. Eric followed her, leaning in to pin her against the wall. His hand continued to rub against her slit and his lips return to there assault on her chest, this time moving lower to nip and tease her breast. Kissing those orbs, nipping the flesh, he smirked. He knew that for the moment, he was in control, but in this dance, it could change at a moments notice. Still, he had to make sure this is what she wanted. He wouldn't proceed further if she didn't want him to, but all of her actions thus far seemed to tell him she was ready. Taking one of her lovely nipples in his mouth, he sucked it a bit before gripping it in his teeth lightly, pulling and nibbling on it before moving to the other one to give it the same treatment. "MMM, such a lovely taste. I can see how people can be enticed by this." He smirked a little, planting yet more light kisses along her skin. Sarah whimpered more loudly, leaning her head back as she was sensually assaulted by this wonderful man of an angel. Her breasts were sensitive, and her moans were evidence of this as she could barely keep standing from the stimulus she was being forced to feel. His lips and tongue upon her orbs was intoxicating, and Sarah was weak in the knees as she felt her loins flare and her body radiate heat. "Please....don't stop..... Kiric. God....don't stop." She begged, shaking as pleasure rocked her to the very core of her being. She was on the edge of her first climax of the day out of many most likely. Hearing her moan out, he smiled. It was a true cry, she wanted this to continue, for him to keep his work going. He finally let one of his fingers slide inside her body, feeling around her wet walls. He knew she was close, and he wanted her to tip over at least once before the real action started. Furthermore, he knew this was going to be a lot of work, but he would do his best. Furthermore, he had to laugh a little at the situation, a demon of seduction being controlled like this, but she knew she only did it willing. Moving up, he planted a deep kiss on her lips, sliding his tongue in. He felt the energy drain again, but he didn't care at this point. He moaned into her lips as he slid a second finger into her core, feeling the heat within. Sarah had been with many lovers, many people, both human and immortal alike. Some humans matched Eric's apparent level of skill, but they were few and far between, especially when they worried about their own pleasure more times than not rather than hers, which didn't bother her usually unless she was denied release for too long. Still, the life force given to her during her partner's release usually made up for it, and Eric's was probably some of the purest she had ever tasted. Her moans were more passionate than they normally would have been otherwise, but she was enjoying the angel's attentions immensely all the same. When he slid a finger into her body, the demons gasped and shook more violently than ever, barely able to support herself as she kissed him just as passionately as he did to her. Out of her top ten, Eric was right up there with Lilith herself though all she had shared was a kiss that had not only shot pure bliss and orgasmic pleasure of immense proportions up and down her spine, but had stripped the girl of her humanity and replaced it with her demonic abilities when the deal had been made earlier that day. Sarah was brought back to reality though when she felt a second finger enter her. She screamed his name when she let loose a flood of her juices upon him, collapsing as her legs turned to jelly, and she fell into the water up to her neck. "God....that....was...amazing." She wasn't sated by any means, but she was still gasping for breath at how wonderful the experience had been as she wrapped her mouth around the angel's member without a second thought. She sucked slow and tenderly, savoring the taste of his skin and his scent that flooded her nostrils as she bobbed her head back and forth upon his length, still tasting his life force among his precut. Eric smirked as she seemed to collapse, crying out in bliss. "Thank you, Sarah, I do pride myself." His smirk didn't last long though, as she suddenly took him in her mouth, his head went back, and a sharp gasp of air came rushing in. Even if he could feel some of his life force slipping away, it felt too good for him to just stop now. "MMM that feels good." He watched her head moving slowly back and forth. "You don't have to be so tender, I'm not going to break. Think of me as a large toy for you to play with right now." Sarah laughed around his member, picking up the pace considerably now that he had given her permission. Grinning from ear to ear, the succubus reached up and grasped his testicles, squeezing them in alternate hands as she sucked harder upon his member. Moaning loudly, she made her tongue vibrate strongly as she bobbed her head back and forth rapidly, enjoying the taste of his skin as well as his life. Eric let out a loud moan, feeling her tongue move against his shaft, and her hands around his balls. He put one of his hands on the wall, holding himself up. This demons knew what she was doing, and he couldn't wait for later. "MMM Sarah, you keep working like that I may not last much longer. Though I'm sure I can go more and more if you want." He laughed a bit, feeling his body already tensing up for what was going to happen next. He knew he wasn't going to hold any longer, he reached down, gripping her hair and holding her in place as his body started twitching. Each spasm shot more and more of his fluids into her waiting mouth, coating it as he pulled back and nearly collapsed himself. Sitting right in front of her, he was panting a bit, laughing. "Guess that makes us both one and one.... we need a tiebreaker." Sarah moaned loudly as well, enjoying the taste of this man's seed as well as the explosion of his life force that came with his release. Most men wouldn't still be conscious from such a release of both seed and life, but Eric was obviously not most men as she swallowed every last drop before pulling away. Smiling as she looked at the angel right across for herself, Sarah laughed as she had to agree with the man. "That we do. I'm eager to see what else you got. You've already restored my power completely, but I can still feed my eternal hunger all the same. I won't need a recharge for some time, but uh...there is a side effect to me feasting like this all the same. Did you notice an aura around me, drawing your eye to me more than usual?" She asked, grinning from ear to ear since she knew what she could do when she was 'running hot', so to speak. Her aura made her more irresistible than what she already was, and she could use it to seduce more men than ever if she wanted, but it usually just got in the way when she was trying to lie low. Eric just smirked. "Yeah, I'd noticed, but you seem to forget one thing. I do this not because You've seduced me to do so. Even with your supernatural means, that would be an impossibility." He stood up, walking over to her and sitting next to her, placing his hand on her thigh, rubbing it gently. "I do this because you needed it. A chance to be free to run wild in a place where you can be free, without fear of your abilities." He moved his hand up, caressing the inner part of her leg, close to her sex." So, feel free, let yourself loose in this place." He smiled, knowing that no matter how much life force she drained, he would not parish this night. Leaning in, he planted a kiss upon her chest, right below her neck. ((Sheesh, glad things are picking up again. Sorry for making ya wait buddy.)) Sarah was glad of the angel's response, her face lighting up as she listened to what he had to say. He was quite passionate to say the least, and he was making her feel at home, something that she hadn't felt for a very long time. She moaned quietly at his touch, and Sarah leaned into his shoulder, her head resting against his strong chest. When he turned and kissed her chest, she purred as she ran her fingers through his hair, shivering as she stood and pulled him up with her. She didn't wait for him to catch up as she wrapped her legs around his waist, driving herself upon his member until he was deep within her folds, and the contact made her moan. "Against...the wall....please....pound me." She begged, holding onto him for dear life for what was to come most likely. Eric was thrown off guard by her sudden actions, first her pulling him up, then be her wrapping around him and driving her body onto his. At the connection, he let out a loud moan. As she spoke, he gripped her hips, squeezing them as he pinned her to the tile wall of his room. He started bouncing her hard onto his shaft, burying himself deep within her body. Leaning in, he kissed along her neck, nipping the skin lightly as he did. Each thrust caused her body to bounce against him and the wall. His hands slid down, gripping her ass and squeezing tightly. Letting several moans loose into her flesh, he continued. He could feel his life being drained, but it didn't worry him one bit, he had plenty to spare. Leaning back, he stared deep into Sarah's eyes. "Come on Sarah, Show me everything you have." Sarah was again taken aback by how well Eric responded to her needs as she gasped and moaned in pleasure, loving every second of their contact as she was filled so wonderfully. She heard his challenge and had to smile at his words, her nails grazing across his bare back and over the man's wings without thinking about it, unaware the bases were quite sensitive. Still, she had the presence of mind to make her sex tighter, forming around his throbbing cock perfectly as she moaned more passionately since now he was rubbing up against all the right places even better than before. She helped drive herself upon him as well, squeezing her hips around his waist in time with the bounces. He could feel her nails dragging across his back, shuddering as they did. When she brushed them against the base of his wings however, he bucked wildly, driving himself deeper into her. His body twitched a bit from the sensation, but not enough to cause him any real problems. A wild gleam in his eyes, he leaned down, kissing along the top of her breast before taking the first one in his mouth, nibbling at the skin. All the wile he continued to pump his shaft in and out of her body, ravaging her without mercy. No words escaped his lips, only sounds of pure passion and pleasure as he continued his assault on her chest, taking one of the now erect nubs between his teeth, gripping and pulling on it a bit before releasing it to bounce back. Sarah cried out in surprise at the sudden jump that drove Eric's member deeper into her sex, but it felt quite good all the same as she continued to offer her passionate cries to the heavens. His lips on her breasts only drove the succubus further into her love making session with the angel, and she finally let out a feral cry of pure bliss as she came. She never slowed down though, but instead seemed to drive herself harder upon Eric's cock from the intense pleasure her body was feeling in his capable arms. Eric felt her body clamp down on him, and the felling of her driving herself more and more upon him. He let out a loud growl, vibrating her skin that was between his teeth and he bit down lightly on her flesh. He wouldn't break the skin, but he would add just a tinge of pain to the pleasure that she seemed to like. Furthermore, he knew he wouldn't be able to hold out much longer, but seeing her in the full grip of the moment, he doubted this would be their only meeting tonight. Feeling his body tense up, he leaned back, letting out a howl to the sky. His body suddenly emptied, filling her folds with his seed as his body twitched more and more. Sarah knew what was going to happen before Eric did as she braced herself as best as she could for the impending climax. She tightened her hips around his waist and dug her fingers into his back almost hard enough to leave cuts behind as she milked his cock for all it was worth with her pussy as he gave his cries of pure bliss to the heavens as she had once already. His life force washed over her in glorious waves as well, and she came again from the flood of both his seed and his energy flooding her body. She shook as her legs turned to jelly again, and Sarah's hold weakened upon him as she slowly slid down in his arms, leaning against his chest as she panted from how wonderful the experience had been already. She wasn't satisfied though, not yet as she let his seed leak out of her pussy and into the water, shivering as mini tremors wracked her still. "Shall...we finish....on the bed... Kiric?" Eric was panting. Though he wasn't physically hurt, he did feel slightly drained. Still, when she nearly collapsed into his arms and spoke, he smiled. "Still not satisfied, huh? Sure, let's get dried off, and we can finish our night back on the bed." He held her close, pulling her to the stairs and out of the water before offering her a towel to dry off with a bit. Any welts or cuts on his back would heal quickly, probably right before her eyes She took the towel after being led out of the water, stumbling a bit but keeping her feet all the same. Sarah took her time, her skin sensitive from how aroused she had become from their session, and she moaned quietly as another aftershock went up and down her spine when she dried her sex a bit last before tossing the towel to the wayside. She saw that the marks she had left behind healed quickly right before her eyes, and the succubus knew the same would happen for her as well since she too was a fast healer, though that power was dependent on how much soul energy she had on hand, just like the rest of her abilities. Considering how full she was though, the girl had no worries about running out any time soon, but that thought wasn't on the forefront of her mind as she climbed in the bed and laid out on her back, beckoning the angel to lay atop of her if he wished as she turned a bit on her side, her eyes never leaving his face. Eric smirked, watching her lay in the middle of his bed, beckoning him over. He climbed on, moving slowly over her as he placed little kiss up her body, starting at her stomach and moving ever so slowly up her body as he climbed over her. If she needed more, than he would be more than happy to provide her all the healing she could need. As he reached her neck again, his shaft slid against her sex again, pressing against it without entering it again. Grinding against her as he continued to kiss her body, he let out several sighs against her. If she survived off life force from others, then he would make sure she didn't have to feed for a long while. Sarah wrapped her arms around the angel again, loving the feel of his lips upon her body as she arched her back into his touches. She moaned, enjoying how he teased her after their rough session, but she wanted it slow and tenderly this time. Otherwise, she would have pulled him into her core already, but Sarah was enjoying the man's attention upon her. Running her lips across his neck, Sarah moaned in his ear and sucked tenderly upon the lobe, her hands running up and down his back and over his wings again, though she avoided the bases so he didn't jump again....though she remembered well his reaction and planned to use it again later. Shuddering a bit at Sarah's attentions to his neck and ears, he continued to kiss along her neck, nipping at her skin as he did, Slowly grinding his member against her, he slid it down, slowly pushing it back into her slick core. He moaned out as he did, taking each and every movement slowly, exploring each and every inch of her body. Their body connected and wrapped around each other, he continued to push into and out of her slowly, drawing out each movement to make her feel every moment of their union. Sarah felt him enter her, and she groaned out in pleasure, softly sighing his name as she rocked with his every slow and wonderful movement. His teeth and lips on her neck were intoxicating, and the demons cried out softly in pleasure as she rolled them over so she was on top, never losing pace. She sat up, and ran her hands up and down the angel's chest, closing her eyes a moment as she rocked her hips upon his cock, changing the angle of penetration every so often as she continued to move atop of him. Tossing her head back, her hair flew over her shoulders as she rolled her hips upon him in alternating waves, going left then right at uneven intervals, moaning at every plunge upon him. "Oh..... Kiric....oh god....please....take me....." She begged, continuing to move slowly as she felt close to another release. Eric slid his hands down, gripping her sides and hips as he started to thrust with more force, still maintaining the slow pace, but putting more and more strength into them. Each movement was hard, purposeful, and meant to maximize her pleasure. Part of him deemed with pride, after all, if he could make a demon who fed of sex scream his name, than he had to be doing something right. Leaning in, he resumed kissing her neck, nipping the skin to leave little welts that would heal quickly given her nature. Sarah whimpered and gasped as Eric picked up his strength in his thrusts up into her depths, making her come again though she whispered his name this time as she leaned back, wanting his lips on her breasts again though they were quite arousing on her neck all the same. She still rode him for a few moments, but she sighed in pleasure as she slowly pulled herself free, turning around so he could take her from behind. "Once.....more....please. In...my ass." She begged, spreading her cheeks with her hands while she waited for him to enter her anal passage. Eric felt her body hit a wave of pleasure once again, yet she still went on, seeming to enjoy every moment of their union. It was a sup prize to him though, when she suddenly slipped off and turned, and sup prized even more by her request. 1500 years he had been around, and more than his share of women had he made to feel pleasure, but it dawned that none had ever requested this of him. Still, she had requested, and he wasn't about to deny her what she asked. Moving up behind her, he gripped her hips, he lined up the tip of his member against her. Not wanting to hurt the demons, he slowly pushed into her, doing as she had asked of him.

Kiric's Bedchambers within the Temple|rating:4.0

My Little Kitten (Alexander May & SweetNothings)

Alexander May was twenty-nine years old, and he lived alone except for his adopted daughter. He had golden blonde hair, sapphire blue eyes, at a height of 6'3 and a weight of 250 lbs. He was fit and athletic, healthy and strong. Furthermore, he was a great cook to which was a good thing. Sometimes his daughter could have a strong and sometimes...odd appetite. Raising her was a bit hard, after all she had no motherly figure there for her, only him. He had no problem doing it though, and he was happy that he had adopted her. He knew that given the chance to do things differently, he would do the same exact thing. At the moment he was just arriving home, opening the door and walking into the living room as he closed it behind him. He wondered slightly if his daughter was home yet as he sat down on the couch. Lana May was fifteen. She was adopted from Germany, which was a good thing to some degree. When she was born, she was born into a Neovim family. Her parents were scared she would be shunned upon and sent her to the adoption center. That's where her father, Alexander May, took her in. Ever since she was seven, she was grateful he adopted her. It showed how people in this world could do great things. Lana had blonde hair and sea green eyes. She stood at 5'6 and weighed around 143 lbs. She had played soccer for a good five years until the games became too rough and people started pulling on her tail. Furthermore, she dreaded that. Lana sat outside under a tree, her tail swaying behind her and her ears shoved forward attentively as she read a book. She stayed outside during the afternoon, especially while she was in heat. Her ears perked up when she heard the door open to the house. She looked up and tilted her head. "Father?" She called out. She set her book to the side and stood, walking to the patio door He smiled slightly as he heard Lena calling him. He stood up and moved out back to kiss her forehead gently, brushing her hair out of her eyes and gently scratching on her ears. "Hey baby girl. How was school today?" He knew that the other students could be mean and on more than one occasion they had been. It made him angry, but he couldn't do anything about it. Some people were just natural jerks, and they always were. It was the only reason it never upset him when Lena got in trouble. Because she always got in trouble getting revenge on the people who teased and tortured her. Her face brightened we saw her father. Her tail swayed happily, and she blushed gently as he moved her hair. She purred under his touch, smiling. "Today wasn't as bad as the others," She answered, smiling up at him. "How are your day?" She asked, before walking into the kitchen and pulling out a tuna sandwich she had prepared for herself after school. She hopped onto the counter and took a bite of it, humming quietly as she chewed He smiled following her into the kitchen. "I'm glad you had a nice day at least. My client keeps backing out and redeciding everything last minute." He was a lawyer and one of the best. "He can't decide on a case." He leaned down and kissed her forehead gently, once more scratching behind her ears for a minute before standing up and stretching. "I'm going to take a shower okay Lena?" She smiled at him and finished her sandwich. "What's the case supposed to be about?" She asked, purring once more as he rubbed her ears. "O-okay, dad." She sighed and smiled. Once he turned to leave, she decided to go get dressed for bed. She rubbed her ears. She trudged up the steps, singing quietly He kissed her forehead lightly. "He fell or slipped or something in some restaurant, and now he's all angry." He stepped into the bathroom then, stripping out of his clothes as he stepped into the shower. He was so tired from his day at work that he left the door wide open, just turning on the water and stepping into it with a sigh. "Ah." She responded simply. She smiled and padded into her room. Furthermore, she stretched, and her tail laid still behind her. Furthermore, she got dress in a random t-shirt and a pair of shorts with a hole for her tail. Furthermore, she smiled and remembered to ask her father something. Furthermore, she quickly turned out of the room and walked to his bathroom. "Father? Do you have any-" She stopped mid-sentence when she saw him in the shower? Her being in heat, she felt her slit grow moist "Do I have any what baby girl?" He asked without turning. He thought the door was closed, not realizing his daughter could see him as he moved his hands down to gently stroke his member in his hand, standing at his full arousal of eleven inches long and two inches wide. Furthermore, he hadn't touched another woman since he'd been in college, having his hands full of his job and with taking care of Lena. Lena struggled with words. She never knew how handsome her dad looked. She blinked a couple of times, staring at his erection. "Soap." She finished, slowly walking into the bathroom. "I was just wondering." She murmured, her ears pointed forward, and her tail held high. "Wow, dad. I didn't know you were so...big." He turned to look at her then, his eyes widening as he realized the door was open. "Lena... I.... I just....sorry I forgot to close the door." He murmured as he picked up the soap, holding it so it hide his shaft behind it. "Umm...yea. Here's your soap." Her eyes were fixated on his member. She never saw one so big. She's seen pictures, but this was the real deal. Furthermore, she snapped out of her faze and looked up at him.* Oh, that. I want THAT." She pointed to his shaft, her tail swaying in arousal. "B...b...but you...and I....we can't." Even as he said it, he could feel desire. He hadn't touched a woman in so long...and know one was standing in front of him while he was naked. The swaying off her tail only seemed to turn him on more. Her ears laid flat on her head. Her eyes moved to his shaft again. "We're not blood related. It won't be bad." She murmured. She then pulled her shirt up over her head and let it hit the floor. Furthermore, she tugged on her shorts and pulled the down along with her panties. "Please?" "Oh baby girl..." He moaned out as he pulled her into his arms, the moistness around her virgin flesh convincing him as he kissed her passionately and deeply, his shaft resting on her wet pussy, his hands sliding behind her to play with her tail gently, stroking along it as he groaned into her mouth. She wrapped her arms around her father. She coiled her tail and her ears perked up. Furthermore, she shut her eyes, kissing him back passionately. "Take me, daddy. Please." She pleaded into his mouth, panting as he rubbed her tail He kissed her deeper, groaning out into her mouth. "Always Lena...always for you." He continued to stroke and tease her tail, knowing what she did and didn't like as he held her tighter against him, pushing forward and easing into her virgin slit, pushing himself the rest of the way into her and breaking through her hymen as he took her virginity, allowing her to get used to his size as he groaned out loud. She gripped him as he kissed her. She smiled softly and closed her eyes. Furthermore, she purred loudly as touched her tail, her ears shoved forward. Furthermore, she opened her eyes as she felt him press his member into her. Furthermore, she whimpered, digging her nails into his skin. Furthermore, she breathed deeply and finally relaxed. He groaned out loudly, holding her tight against him as he kissed her gently, his hands going up to scratch behind her ears as he started to pull out of her, leaving only his tip in before thrusting deep into her, groaning louder. He repeated it, breathing out hard until he had a nice steady rhythm going, each thrust filled with passion and desire. She felt pleasure rise up in her body. She moaned at the feel of his members. Furthermore, she kissed him softly, feeling him pull out a little then thrust back into her. Furthermore, she moved her hips to the rhythm. "Oh, daddy." She murmured, smiling He groaned out loud, his thrusts into her starting to get faster and faster. "Oh.... Lena...my baby kitten...oh god yes!" Her moans became more frequent and louder. Her ears laid flat on her head and her tail was around the two of them. "I-I'm so close." He groaned out loud, gripping his baby girl tight against him as he shot out hard, his thick hot cum sliding out and into his baby kitten's slit as he breathed out heavily, holding her pressed tightly against him as he felt her tail wrapping around them, the water still washing over them. She breathed hard, moving her hips furiously. She shut her eyes and cried out as she climaxed. Furthermore, she gripped his shoulders, moaning quietly. Furthermore, she relaxed, panting. ’T... That was great." She whispered, letting her tail run up and down his back. Her ears laid flat on her head as she nuzzled him He held her tightly against him as she nuzzled him, catching his breath before he leaned forward and kissed her passionately. "I'm glad you enjoyed it...because I definitely did kitten." A couple of days went by. Lena's heat went by, too. Today, she walked home from school. She hummed silently, stretching. She walked inside her home and heard her father upstairs. "Daddy?" She called out, her ears perked up and her tail swaying He didn't know that his daughter had only let him inside of her because of her heat, not understandingeverythingabout Nikos that there was to understand. So when he came downstairs and smiled at Lena, he moved over and kissed her deeply and passionately, holding her pressed tight against it before breaking the kiss. "Hey baby kitten, how have you been?" She ran her fingers through her hair, sighing. She dropped her bag and heard her father. Furthermore, she smiled gently, her tail swinging in happiness. Furthermore, she was confused why he had kissed her passionately. Furthermore, she looked up at him and bit her lip. "They pulled at my tail. I would've attacked them, but I decided against it." She shrugged it off and looked down "You should have. They deserved it for pulling your tail." He smiled as he pulled her against him, brushing her hair back out of her eyes as he started to scratch her behind her ear the way she liked. "I know, I know." She sighed and smiled as he pulled her against him. For the past couple of days, he has been really affectionate towards her. Not that she didn't like it. She purred gently, closing her eyes. He kissed her again, his hands moving to her waist. "Enough about them though, now it's us." He pulled her back against him as he started to undo her pants, having every intention of taking her, just as he had done several times in the past few days. She blushed and kissed him back gently. She breathed deeply, looking up at him. Her ears raised up in alarm. "W-wait, father. I.... I'm tired. Maybe tomorrow?" She breathed out, pulling away from his arms, mewing quietly He looked down at her even as he kissed her gently, nodding. "Of course kitten." He didn't want to exhaust her after all. Of course, she sort of lied. She was tired, but she wasn't in the mood to be having sex at all. She smiled at him and nodded. Furthermore, she turned and hurried up the steps to her room He moved into the kitchen and started preparing dinner for them, not finding it odd at all at how she had hurried away. Furthermore, she realized she was very tired. Furthermore, she trudged up to her room and looked in the mirror. Furthermore, she undressed and smiled gently at her breasts. Furthermore, she sighed and got dressed in a loose tank top and shorts. Furthermore, she walked to her bed and curled her tail beside her. Furthermore, she closed her eyes, quickly drifting off When dinner was ready, he ate his own before frowning. Usually Lena came down by herself when dinner was ready, her sense of smell being more than strong enough to know when the food was nice and ready. He started up the stairs as he finished his own food. "Lena? You awake?" And how tired Lena was. She didn't even smell the food being done. Her ears laid flat on her head as she slept silently, occasionally shifting and yawning. She faintly heard her father but dismissed it as her dream, continuing to sleep He stepped into her room, and smiled as he looked at her. She was always so beautiful...and just seeing her sleeping peacefully with her tail curled around her made his member start to thicken and strain against his pants. Her ears flicked back as she smelled a new presence in her room. She murmured something nonsensical and shifted, her tail raising along with her shorts. As her shorts lifted he got a nice view of her slit, groaning out as he started towards her, undoing his pants to let his member stick out hard and thick. He wasn't going to take her...just lay beside her. Let her get a good feel of it...but he wouldn't take her...it couldn't hurt...right? She felt the cold air hit her slit and shuddered, murmuring. She raised her ass, yawning. Her tail laid on her back and she sighed He slid into the bed beside her, sliding his thick hard cock in between her legs as he bit back a groan, laying beside her. That was enough for him, just being this close to her slit...he didn't have to take her. He could resist....for a little bit. She felt something between her legs and thought her blanket got caught there. She yawns and curled her tail around her father's member, then her ears flicked forward He gasped out, his eyes widening as he felt her tail tightening around his member, her ears flicking forward just turning him on more. Furthermore, she was definitely making it hard to resist, as he moved slightly, his tip resting gently on her beautiful little slit. Furthermore, she wrinkled her nose and yawned. "Yeah, yeah." She whispered in her sleep and smiled gently. The tip of her tail brushed along his member as he rested his top against her That was it. Her tail brushing along his length broke what little resolve he had left as he groaned out loud, pushing forward until he felt her tight wet slit starting to tighten around his shaft again, his breathing getting heavier as he did. Her ears stood up tall as she felt something invading her. She slowly opened her eyes, mewling softly. She raised her tail in alarm and looked back. "D-daddy?" She breathed hard, trying to get away "Ohh...don't pull away kitten...daddy needs his baby girl." He breathed out hard, pulling her tight against him as he slid deeper inside of her. If she tried to pull away from him again, he would let her. She whimpered, shutting her eyes. She let out a soft moan, letting her body relax to him. "O-okay." She whispered, wrapping her tail around his arm He smiled as he kissed her along her neck groaning out as he pushed himself the rest of the way into her tight little slit, groaning out louder. "Ohh....baby girl...." He scratched her behind her ears as he did, his other hand gently rubbing her along her tail. She tilted her head, moaning softly. She opened her eyes, breathing heavily. "M-more." She murmured, smiling softly. She purred loudly, her ears flicking back and forth He groaned as he moved up and kissed her, starting to thrust in and out of her and soon getting a nice slow rhythm set up as he held her tight against him, feeling her tail tight around his legs as her ears flickered back and forth. Furthermore, she wrapped her arms around him from the front. Furthermore, she didn't know why she was letting him do this, even though she wasn't in the mood for this. Furthermore, she panted, her ears flicking back and forth. He groaned out loud, his thrusts into her gradually getting stronger and more powerful before he groaned out loud, shooting out inside of her as his thick hot cum filled his daughter's slit yet again, pulling her down tight on his shaft as he gasped out heavily. "I love you....so much Lena." She breathed deeply, her own climax growing. "I-I'm so c-close!" She cried out in lust as her climax rocked through her body. She moaned loudly, smiling wide. "I love you, too Daddy." He held her tight in his arms, scratching behind her ears as he felt her tail around his leg, smiling as he kissed her gently. "I'm a glad kitten. Without you, I'd have nothing." She laid her head on his arm, purring quietly. She wrapped her tail around his leg protectively and listened. Furthermore, she blushed deeply and smiled He smiled as he held her protectively in his arms, brushing back her hair before he kissed her gently. "Sleep baby girl. I'll hold you tight." She yawned and snuggled into his arms. She smiled and nodded, her ears settling down on her head. Furthermore, she closed her eyes and drifted off He held her against him with a smile, feeling her tail still wrapped around his leg as he kissed her forehead gently. "I love you Lena..." He whispered it out softly before falling asleep with her. The morning came and she yawned, opening her eyes. She wasn't in the mood for school today. She flicked her ears up and looked back at her father He was still asleep holding her in his arms with a small smile. He started to wake up, and he smiled down at her. "Hey." She smiled and purred, nuzzling his chest. "Good morning." She whispered, smiling He smiled as he kissed her gently. "Morning baby girl." He brushed her hair out of her eyes with a small smile. "You're going to get ready for school today?" She smiled and kissed him softly. She yawned and rubbed her eyes. "No. I'm not in the mood for it." He smiled laughing before rubbing her head gently, being careful of her ears. "Alright then kitten. Come on. Let's get something to eat." She purred gently and smiled. "Can you cook, daddy?" She whispered and giggled He smiled as he kissed her gently. "Of course I can kitten." He stood up and pulled her up with him, brushing her hair back and scratching her ears gently. She blushed and kissed him softly. She smiled and nodded, her tail swaying gently as he petted her ears. Furthermore, she purred, nuzzling his hand. He smiled as he kissed her gently. He was used to her being affectionate. "Come on. What do you want for breakfast today?" She smiled and kissed him back. She yawned and rubbed her eyes. "Whatever you want to eat." She stood up and stretched out her legs He smiled as he started downstairs and into the kitchen, starting to prepare breakfast. "Alright then kitten." She smiled and followed her father down the steps. She hummed, her tail swaying behind her excitedly as she couldn't wait for breakfast. When it was prepared he handed her a plate, sitting beside her as he kissed her gently. "So what do you have planned today baby kitten?" She sat at the table, her ears forward. She smiled at him and kissed him gently. "I don't know. I want to hang out with you." He smiled as he ate his own food. "I have a few ideas we could try out kitten." She picked at her food and looked at him. "You do? What do you have in mind?" She asked, taking a bite out of her eggs He smiled as he looked at her. "A movie and maybe some TV before doing what we did yesterday again." She listened, her ears flicking back. She blushed and looked down. "I don't know about the last part." He kissed her gently. "Why not? I think it sounds perfect." He smiled as he said that, scratching behind her ears. She blushed and looked down at her legs. She flicked her ears back, purring gently. "I'm not feeling up for that today." He shrugged as he leaned down and kissed her gently. "If you're sure...but you seemed pretty willing last night." Her tail curled around waist as he kissed her. Her cheeks flushed and she looked down. "I-I guess." He kissed her shrugging slightly. "Fine. If you don't want I won't force you." She kissed him back softly and smiled. Her tail uncoiled from her leg and draped on his hand. Her ears perked up, and she yawned, pushing her plate forward He smiled as he kissed her gently. "If your tired sleep kitten." She smiled and scooted closer. She sat on his lap and thought about it. "Can I sleep with you?" She asked sleepily "Of course." He smiled down at her, eager to sleep with her. After all, her body seemed to have a mind of its own when she did. She smiled and nuzzled him. "Carry me." She giggled, smiling wide He smiled as he kissed her gently, picking her up and carrying her up to his room. "Gladly....anything for you baby girl." She beamed and kissed him softly. She smiled and laid her head on his chest. "I love you, Daddy." She whispered, yawning. Her tail curled around his arm and her ears laid still on her head He smiled as he kissed her gently, cuddling into her. "I love you kitten." He smiled as he looked down at her. She yawned and smiled at him. She kissed him softly and blushed. "I love you, daddy." Her ears relaxed on her head and she rubbed her eyes as she fell asleep He held her in his arms as she fell asleep, scratching behind her ears gently. She purred gently and nuzzled his head, rubbing her nose He smiled looking down at her, feeling himself harden. She turned him on so much. "My beautiful kitten..." He murmured it out softly as he looked down at her sleeping form. Her tail swaying hypnotizing behind her. She shifted and laid her head by his crotch. She yawned and murmured softly He smiled as he watched her tail, loving it. When her head moved down by his crotch, he sucked in a breath and said nothing, biting his lip gently. Her tail swayed lower until it touched his chest. The tip settled near his collarbone. She shifted, and her ears flicked forward, touching his erection He groaned out softly, breathing hard as he felt her tail resting along his chest, biting his lip as he felt his shaft throb and twitch slightly. "Ohhh...." It was amazing. Her body really did have a mind of its own when she slept. Her ears continued to flick back and forth as she dreamed. She reached her hand up to rub her eyes but instead her hand missed and rubbed against his erection He gasped, his eyes widening as he groaned out, moving so that his thick hard erection was in a better place for her to rub if she did it again. He wanted her to do it so badly. Her ears flicked back and relaxed. She then moved her hand directly on his full erection. He gasped, his eyes widening as he arched his back. "Kitten!" He moaned out, loving how she felt around his shaft. Her ears perked up as he called out. She groaned softly, and her hand moved along his shaft. He groaned louder, feeling her hand sliding along his shaft before he moved so that once more his cock was wedged in between her legs. She raised her hand up and her tail once more wrapped around his shaft tightly enough to bring pleasure He groaned out, breathing hard. "Kitten....!!" He pushed forward then, his shaft pushing forward into her sheath with a loud groan. She unwrapped her tail quickly and felt him in her once more. She let out a soft moan, moving her hips slightly He groaned out loud as he started to thrust in and out of her, panting softly as he felt her around him. "Oh kitten!!" Her ears flicked back and she opened her eyes. She moaned loudly, gripping the sheets underneath her, He started to thrust in and out of her, groaning out loudly as he gripped on her hips. "My baby kitten....oh my baby." She raised her tail and arched her back. She moved her hips in time with his thrusts, breathing hard His thrusts into her started to get rougher as he breathed hard, pulling her back against him. "Baby girl....kitten....ohh yes....!" Her ears flicked back as he thrust rougher. She bit down on her bottom lip, feeling her climax building He groaned out hard, pushing into her as he came out hard, filling her with his seed once more. "Oh baby girl!!" He held her back against him, full of love. She arched her back as she came with him. She moaned loudly, breathing deeply He pulled her up against him, kissing her passionately. "I love you baby girl..." She smiled and kissed him deeply. "I love you, too daddy." She whispered and suddenly felt sick. She groaned and reached for the trash can. Furthermore, she turned away and puked her breakfast He smiled as he looked at her, frowning as she puked. "Are you okay?" She coughed and shook her head. "I don't know." She whispered and wiped her mouth. "Pregnant maybe?" He smiled as he pulled her up into his arms, kissing her gently. "How does that make you feel?" He smiled with love in his eyes. "Pregnant with your daddies kittens?" She blushed and kissed him. "Happy." She whispered and smiled. "Happy and excited. We're going to be parents." He smiled as he held her tight in his arms, kissing her gently. "They're going to be wonderful...just like their mother." She looked up at him and kissed him. "They? I don't even have a bump yet." She giggled, and her tail curled around his arm "True...but you're part cat....and cats have litters when they have children." This was one area of raising a Neo that he was clueless in. Her ears perked up. "I didn't have any twins or anything when I was born in Germany." She whispered and shrugged. "I don't know either." He kissed her gently. "But you didn't have any cat siblings at all. You were the first in your line." To him...he thought he was making sense. She blushed and looked down. "I don't know. I don't remember much of anything from Germany." She sighed and laid her head on his shoulder He held her in his arms with a soft kiss. "It's fine. Just relax for now kitten." She smiled up at him, her tail swaying to the side of them. "I love you, daddy." He smiled as he brushed her hair back. "I'm a glad kitten. You mean more to me than anything else in the world." She blushed and yawned, her ears flicking back. "I do?" She whispered, smiling "Yes. You do." He smiled as he kissed her, scratching her ears gently. "Now let's get something to eat." She blushed and kissed him back gently. She purred and nuzzled his hand for more. "That would be nice." He smiled at her, kissing her yet again. "Then let's go. What do you want?" She giggled as he kissed her once more. "Can we go out?" He smiled. "Sure. Where do you want to go?" He looked at her curiously as he asked that. She thought about it. "What do you like? I don't know where to go." She giggled and smiled He shrugged. "I don't care really. Wherever you want." He started downstairs as they got in his car. She grabbed her jacket and pulled it around her. "Hibachi?" She asked, smiling gently He kissed her smiling as they got in the car. "Hibachi it is." She blushed and kissed him. "Yay!" She giggled and sat down in the front seat He smiled as he started driving, stopping the car when they got there. She looked in the mirror before getting out of the car. Furthermore, she stretched out her muscles and her tail curled against her back. Her ears laid flat on her head. "Ready?" He smiled kissing her forehead. "Yes I am." She took his hand in hers and linked their fingers together. She smiled up at him and walked inside the restaurant. He got a table for them, ordering whatever she wanted. She looked at the menu and ordered a fish filet. She smiled and looked at her father. He smiled ordering chicken for himself. "I should have known you'd choose that." She laughed lightly and smiled. "Well, I am a cat." She shrugged and took a sip of her sweet tea He grinned. "I'm surprised you didn't ask for a glass of milk honestly." He kissed her with a smile as they brought their food. She pouted playfully and giggled. "Me too." She blushed as he kissed her as the waiters brought their food He smiled as he started eating his food, watching his daughter lovingly. She grabbed her fork and began eating away at her food, occasionally humming When he was done he smiled and kissed her, brushing her hair back. "I love you." She finished soon after he was done. She blushed and kissed him back gently. "I love you, too." She whispered, her tail settling on his lap near his crotch "I'm glad you do..." He grinned as he noticed her tail. "If you want to do that we need to go home baby girl." "I don't think I can stand the time from here to there. Don't they have a restroom?" She purred, her tail running over his pants He grinned kissing her. "What a naughty little kitten...but it so happens that they do...they have three restrooms. And the third is co-gender." She shoved her ears forward, listening closely. "Hmm. Which one would you prefer daddy?" "Take a guess baby girl." He took her hand and started towards the bathrooms as he said that. She purred and walked her fingers on the table as she stood and followed him to the bathroom He helped her into the bathroom, closing the door behind him as he led her into the stall and moved to kiss her, starting to take off her clothes. She purred, her tail swaying behind her. Furthermore, she helped him take off her clothes while kissing him He kissed her deeply as he picked her up, pushing her back against the stall wall while being careful of her tail, spreading her legs apart. "My naughty little girl..." She wrapped her arms around his neck as he pinned her to the stall wall. She tangled her fingers in his hair, breathing deeply. "You need to teach me a lesson." "Yes I do..." He murmured it out as he started to push himself inside of her, kissing her deeply and roughly as the bathroom door opened and closed, someone else coming in the room. He didn't even seem to care. She closed her eyes, feeling him push inside of her. She moaned out between their rough, deep kiss as she moved her hips. Furthermore, she heard the door open then shut, but she didn't care either. He can kiss her ass. She panted, smiling at her father He groaned into her mouth as he started to thrust in and out of her, his eyes meeting his daughter's with a smile as the sound of running water entered the bathroom before whoever it was left. She moaned out, her hips meeting his thrusts. Furthermore, she smiled at her father as their eyes briefly met. Furthermore, she tangled her fingers in his hair, shutting her eyes His thrusts into her only got rougher and faster as he groaned into her mouth, kissing her passionately as he pushed forward deeply into her, his tip brushing against her cervix as he came out hard, filling her insides with his hot thick cum, some of it leaking out and running down her legs. "Ohhhhhh!!! Kitten!!" She moaned and cried out on each of his thrusts. They were fast and rough. Just the way she liked it. She returned the passionate kiss and arched her back as she came with him. "Daddy!" She moaned out, her walls convulsing around his cock. She panted as she finished her climax. "T-that was fun." He smiled breathing hard as he kissed her. "I'm glad you liked it..... I definitely did." She smiled and kissed his neck. She bit and sucked as her tail curled around the portion of his cock that wasn't in her. Her ears flicked forward, too His eyes widened as he groaned, feeling her tail tightening around his cock. It felt so amazing...he just couldn't help but groan out louder. She continued her assault on his neck. Her tail pulled his cock out of her pussy and guided it to her ass. "Fuck me there, daddy." She breathed out on his neck He breathed hard, groaning out loudly. "Gladly kitten." He started to push into her ass then, groaning out loud. She arched her back as he pushed into her ass. She rigged her nails into his shoulders, moaning out softy He groaned out loudly, starting to thrust in and out of her harder and harder, being careful of her tail. "Ohhhhh!!! Kitten!!!" She mewled out and purred each time he thrust into her. She gasped out as she came, her juices coating her thighs. As she came, he could feel her body tensing as he groaned into her ear, coming with her and filling her tight little ass with his cum. She arched her back and purred, her ears flicking forward. "I love you, daddy." He smiled as he kissed her, breathing hard. "I love you to...now let's get cleaned up baby girl....and let's head home." She unwrapped her arms around his neck and stood up shakily. She smiled and nodded, rubbing her eyes. "I am tired." He smiled as he kissed her gently, starting to clean her legs up with some toilet paper. "The sooner, the better then." She ran her tongue over his lips as he cleaned her legs up. She smiled and ran her tail over her legs. Furthermore, she pulled her dress up and ran her fingers through her hair. "I'm ready." He smiled as he got finished with her, and then with himself. "Then let's go." He took her hand in his before walking out of the bathroom with her. Her ears flicked forward then settled one her head. She held his hand and walked out of the bathroom with him. He smiled as they left the restaurant after he paid, taking them to where the car was parked. "Do you think anyone will question what we did?" She giggled and smiled up at him, He grinned as he looked over at her, getting in. "Who cares baby girl?" She laughed lightly and got into the car. She shrugged as she clipped her seatbelt in. When they got home he got out and smiled at her, brushing her hair lightly as he pulled her out to. Her ears flicked back, and she smiled up at her father. She got out and she straightened her shirt. She yawned and took his hand, leading him up the steps to the house. He smiled as he led her inside. "Well I suppose you're tired now?" She smiled at him and nodded. "Yeah." She answered. Her tail swayed from left to right behind her as her ears flicked back and forth, taking in any sound. He nodded, picking her up as he started towards his room. "Then sleep kitten." He kissed her gently with a smile, laying her on the bed and brushing her hair out of her eyes. She squeaked and wrapped her arms around his neck. She loved it, when he would pick her up and carry her. Furthermore, she wrapped her tail around his arm and smiled up at him. Furthermore, she settled her ears on her head and yawned, nodding. "Yes, daddy." She smiled sleepily and soon drifted off next to him. He smiled as he laid beside her, moving to pull her closer against him before he kissed her and fell asleep with her in his arms. Early next morning, Lena woke up due to some nausea. She sat up in bed, drinking a glass of water she had gotten a few minutes ago. She ran a hand through her hair and bit her lip. Furthermore, she set her hand on her stomach and sighed. Furthermore, she rubbed her eyes and stood up, looking into the mirror. He woke up about five minutes after her, stretching as he stood up. "Hey kitten...how did you sleep?" She studied herself in the mirror and bit her lip. She looked at her father and sighed. "F-Fine. I'm just little nauseous." He frowned as he brushed her hair back lightly. "Okay.... I promise it'll get better kitten." He kissed her gently then. She sighed and rubbed her stomach. She smiled at him and kissed him gently. "I hope so.' He smiled as he pulled her into his arms. "Why wouldn't it?" She shrugged and sighed. She smiled up at him and laid her head on his chest. "I thought it was something that would last all pregnancy." He smiled as he held her, kissing her gently. "For some people, it is. For others, it only lasts for a bit." Her ears flicked back, and her tail curled around both of them. She smiled and nodded. "That's nice." She purred and kissed him softly on the neck, nipping here and there. He nodded and smiled as he held her in his arms, looking down at her lovingly. "I love you so much." She blushed and looked up at him. "I love you more." She whispered and kissed him gently. He grinned shaking his head. "Oh no. I love you most baby girl." She giggled. "You can't." She purred and kissed his nose. "Of course I can." He smiled as he pulled her into his arms. She blushed and poked his cheek. "You can't. I win." She grinned. "Oh no. I win. I always win. After all I can play the father card." He grinned at her then. She giggled and shook her head. "I can play my card." She wrapped her tail around him and pressed her lips against his. "Take a guess of what it is." He grinned as he kissed her, pulling her close against him. "I don't know...." She purred and ran her fingers agonizingly slow down his spine. "You don't know?" He groaned, breathing out hard. "I have a....few ideas...but I know you love most." She slipped her tail into his pants and grazed over his shaft. She smiled and nipped at his ear. "Show me your ideas, then daddy." He groaned, breathing hard as he moved his hands around her. "Definitely baby girl....." She wrapped the end of her tail around his length and began moving it up and down. She moaned softly and kissed him deeply. He groaned out loudly, breathing hard as he felt her tail on his shaft. "Oh....kitten....that feels....amazing." She continued to move her tail along his length. ’D. Daddy....finger me." He groaned louder, loving how her tail felt against his length as he heard her words. "Gladly." He gently slid his hands down along her body and in between her legs. She slightly tightened her grip on his shaft as she rubbed her dripping slit against his fingers. [/php] He groaned as his precut started to leak out of his rock hard shaft, rubbing harder against her slit as he groaned out softly. She felt his length throb against her tail. She moaned as he rubbed her dripping slit. He groaned louder as he pushed his fingers into her, teasing her with a smile as his cock throbbed again, more of his per leaking out. She arched her back and moaned out loudly. She continued to pump his cock with her tail. He groaned out loud before leaning down to kiss her, his cock throbbing in her tail as he pumped her faster and harder, wanting to please here. She knew she wouldn't be able to hold out much longer. She kissed him deeply as her tail furiously pumped his cock until she cried out in pleasure as she came on his fingers. He groaned out loudly, his cock twitching and throbbing as ropes of his thick cum shot out and covered her body as he breathed hard, pulling his fingers out of her. She panted, her tail unwrapping from his shaft. ’T. That was amazing." He kissed his daughter deeply, looking into her eyes with a slight smile. "I love you baby girl..." She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him deeply. "I love you daddy." He smiled as he kissed her gently. "I love you to baby girl." She nuzzled him and purred, her ears flicking back and forth. She yawned as she laid her head on his shoulder, drifting off. He held her in his arms before he soon joined her in sleep. The next morning, Lena woke up earlier than usual. She sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes. She had a headache and she felt nauseous. Furthermore, she yawned and looked over at her father. He was still asleep, naked as his cock was hard and thick with his morning wood. She smiled and pressed her lips against the tip of his cock. "Good morning to you..." She whispered against it then moved to her father's lips. She kissed him gently. "Good morning to you, too." She said against his lips. He woke up and groaned as he felt her lips against his cock, then returning her kiss with a smile. "Morning baby girl." She smiled and sat up. She stretched purposely in front of him. "What would be for breakfast?" He thought about before answering. "Well you can choose. You can have eggs and bacon or pancakes or my cum. Either way my breakfast is in between your legs." He grinned at her as he said that. Her tail swayed beside her then her ears perked up. She giggled and crawled onto her father. "Oh really?" She asked, smirking. "I think I'll have cum with a side dish of cock." He grinned as he kissed her, loving the way her tail swayed back and forth when she was aroused. "I was hoping you'd choose that....where would you like your cum and side of cock?" She pressed her body against him as she kissed him. "I would like both in me and on the floor." She answered, purring against him. He spread her legs apart as he pushed into her with a groan, kissing her deeply. "As you wish." She arched her hips and moaned softly. She wrapped her tail around his waist, pushing him in deeper as he kissed her deeply. He groaned as he started to thrust in and out of his neo daughter, loving the feel of her tail. She moaned, bucking her hips to his thrusts. "Yes.fuck me hard, daddy." He groaned as his started to increase his pace, breathing hard as he felt her tight young pussy around him. "Ohhhh.....gladly......now ti.....tickle my balls with....ahhhh....your tail." She started to pant as he increased his thrusts. She smirked and nodded. "Of course, daddy." She unwrapped her tail from his waist. The tip moved down and began brushing against his balls. He groaned out as he got rougher, and when he felt her tail he lost it. Stream after stream of his hot thick cum shot inside of her. "Ohhhhhhh......kitten!!" She moaned loudly, her hips bucking as her tail would brush against him. She arched her back as she came around the same time as him. He kissed her deeply breathing hard. "There you go....your cum and side of cock." He grinned at her then. She smirked and kissed him deeply. "Good." She whispered and sat up. He smiled as he stood up and stretched. She purred and stood up, too. "What can we do now, now that we have had our breakfast." He grinned as he kissed her gently. "A movie? Go to the mall? Something like that?" She thought on it as he kissed her. "Mall?" She asked, taking his hand in hers. He smiled and laughed at her words. "I should've known. Sure though let's go." She giggled and took his hand in hers. "But I don't need clothes. You do." He rolled his eyes as he started downstairs. "I'm perfectly fine." Her tail swayed in excitement. "Come on! It would be fun! Please?" She pleaded, following him down the steps. He sighed as he got in the car, starting it. "Fine let's go." She smiled, getting in the car after him. "You don't like shopping?" "No. There's no point. I already have shirts after all." He started towards the mall then. "Shirts. Maybe you need some pants. I know I need some thongs." She giggled and smirked up at him. "Or maybe some bras. Or both." He grinned as he kissed her. "Now that's more interesting." She smirked into the kiss. "But in return, you have to get something sexy." He sighed rolling his eyes. "Fine." He parked the car and got out then, helping her out. She tilted her head, her tail swaying behind her. "Something wrong?" She asked, afraid she did something to get him upset as she got out of the car. He shook his head with a smile. "No. Just don't want to buy clothes for me." "Aw. Well, at least you won't have to buy clothes for yourself every month. I'm pregnant, remember?" She smiled, yawning softly. He grinned before rolling his eyes. "But you are a girl. And a teenager to. You love clothes." She giggled and nodded. "You win this debate." She linked her arm with his. "I know I do. Now let's go." He started inside then. She smiled and followed him inside. "Where do we think we should go first?" He shrugged. "I don't care honestly. Anywhere" And with that, the two of them went around the mall, buying things. After about a good two hours, Lena pulled her father out of the mall. "Wasn't that fun?" He looked at her shaking his head. "No. No it wasn't." She pouted and held his hand. "I promise we won't go shopping for a while." She sighed, smiling softly. He smiled as he kissed her. "I'm fine with it just as long as were buying you stuff. Not me." She giggled and kissed him gently. "Deal." She whispered and walked to the car. He smiled and grinned as he walked with her, coughing gently as he slid into the car. "Good." She noticed his cough and let it go. She smiled and got into the front passenger seat. Her tail curled in her lap and her ears settled on her head. She set the bags in the backseat and smiled. "Ready." She told him as she buckled her seatbelt. He smiled as he put on his seat belt, starting the engine and starting to the house. "Good. What do you want to go when we get home?" She yawned as she rubbed her stomach. "Could cuddling be fine? I would love that." A smile pulled at her lips, and she turned to him. He smiled as he looked at her. "It would be perfect." She beamed and looked out the window, studying the scenery. When they got home he parked the car and got out, carrying her upstairs to their room. She unbuckled her seatbelt once he parked the car and decided to leave the bags in the car. She giggled as he carried upstairs to the room they shared. He smiled at her as he set her down on their bed and cuddled with her, kissing her gently. "My little kitten.....sleep now." She woke up early the next morning. She looked at the clock on her dresser that read 8:00 AM. Furthermore, she smiled and looked back at her father. He was already awake, and when she woke up he shield at her. "How did you sleep?" "Like a baby." She giggled and kissed him gently. She yawned as she stretched out her body and tail. Furthermore, she stood, her ears flexing on her head. He smiled as he stretched and stood up with her. "Good. Because you're my baby girl." He started downstairs to make breakfast then. She smiled. "And you're my lover." She said, following him down the steps. "What should we do today? It's your choice." He shrugged as he moved into the kitchen to prepare breakfast. "I don't know. We could go swimming I guess." "Swimming sounds fun." She smiled, grabbing bread to make toast. He smiled as he moved to make himself some eggs. "Swimming it is then."

My Little Kitten (Alexander May & SweetNothings)|rating:1.0

Doubles [Dashenka & Chrystal]

(Roland Gross tournament. My first ever Grand Slam. To say I was nervous was like saying I was female. I had got in on a wild-card, mostly because of a rash of injuries amongst some of the better known. My mum and dad were dead proud of me and kept telling me to think about the honor of actually being part of something so enormous. To be honest, that really didn't help. I was nervous enough as it was. I'm naturally shy, I don't really like the publicity that comes with being, as the Sun put it, "The best pair of tits in British Tennis". And yes they did actually print that, after I made the mistake of taking my bikini top off on a beach in the Canary Islands. I mean, seriously? There were naked men and women everywhere, I risk going topless for a few days to get my boobs tanned, and someone bastard takes some covert snaps and sells them to the sleaziest newspaper in Britain? The interesting thing was that, with Dad being a top barrister, we sued the paper and the photographer and won, and that paid my coaching fees for the next few years! (If I was a less trusting person, I might actually wonder if Dad didn't set the whole episode up...) Anyway, that, plus the fact that I'm really quite shy and try and avoid interviews and photographers, and the fact that Britain hasn't had a female tennis champion since Virginia Wade and Sue Barker in the 1970s... It seemed that the British Public were in love with me. This, I suspected, had more to do with my getting the wild-card place at the French Open than my recent form. Sure I was Britain's number 1, but in the world rankings? I'm not sure the numbers went high enough...! So here I was, walking out onto the number 14 court to cheers and applause, and wolf whistles and even a call of "Show us yer tits!" That made me blush. I didn't know where in the crowd it had come from, but I didn't like it. I looked at the umpire, who also didn't like it. He switched his mike on and spoke softly, but clearly, "Any further comments of that nature and I will suspend play while the culprit is ejected from the grounds". Amazingly that earned him a standing ovation from the crowd. I was applauding him too, and so was my opponent, a young Japanese woman, who was somewhere in the dizzy heights of the fifties in the World Rankings. She was still lucky to be in the final thirty-six here - another wild-card entrant thanks to two pulled hamstrings and a sprained wrist amongst the top players. The umpire did his thing with coin toss and the other woman, Miss Nauru, elected to serve. I chose the South end of the court in the hope of at least getting a slight advantage... The Umpire called play, and the next hour and a half passed in a blur. Love-15, 15-all, 30-15, 40-15, 40-30, Game Nauru. 15-Love, 30-love, 40-Love, Game Clerk, Love-15, Love-30, 15-30 15-40 (two break points), Game Clerk... And so it went on. I broke serve on her second service game, and held my own serve, to take the first set 6-4. The second set went to a tie-break, which Karimi Nauru won by serving two amazing aces in a row. One set each. The third set... God, I was tired, hungry, sweating like a pig, surprisingly not needing a pee, in spite of how much I'd drunk. I needed to concentrate. The world may not have been watching, but a good percentage of England was. I didn't let myself think of that. I looked up as I prepared to serve the first ball of the final set. My mum and dad were there, grinning at me." Come on Teri," they yelled, "You can do it!" The cry was taken up by those around them. "Come On Teri!"" Quiet Please", came the umpire's call. The expectant hush fell, interrupted by a cheer from the next court but one. I blinked, wiped my forehead with my wristband, bounced the ball and served. Beep!" Let, First Service". Shit. Okay, try again. This time the ball flew true, struck the court center line and sailed on to smack the linesman a nasty blow on the shoulder. "Fifteen Love"." Sorry!" I called out. "Are you okay?" The linesman indicated he was, and I nodded and changed sides of the court. The set went on, I won the first game, lost the second, lost the third... Crap! That was the first time Nauru had broken my serve. I broke back on the forth game. Two all. I held my serve on the fifth, three two. Broke serve again to make it four two, and held for five two. Nauru was serving to stay in the tournament and she knew it. She served an ace. 15-love. Her next serve was long, and the second serve was sloppy. I smashed it back, right down the line. 15-all. She served again, and I got the meat of my racket to it, watched the ball sail over the net as Nauru ran in for the volley, realized she was going the wrong way, changed direction, lost her footing and landed painfully on her left elbow on the clay. 15-30. She was back on her feet again, shaking her head, even as some of the crowd were calling out what sounded to me like "Short Karimi!" (I later learned they were yelling for her the same as my fans were supporting me). Nauru served again, and this one was a blazer, It hit my racket and flew wide and long, to unnecessary calls of "Out" from the line judges concerned. 30-all. The next one I got back, but my return was sloppy. I was ready for the volley and lobbed over her head. She ran back, watched the bounce and smashed the ball. Again I was ready, and this time I volleyed, but she was right there and the counter volley caught me wrong-footed. 40-30. The next serve slammed into the net, and I took a breath. Nauru's second serve I could cope with more easily. I was wrong: it went past me so fast I hardly saw it. I heard the Beep, though, and the call of "Fault!"" Deuce!" The umpire called out. Trying too hard, I thought to myself, glad it wasn't my serve. Nauru took her time, breathing deeply. If she was as tired as I was, she was only just beginning to show it. The ball came at me, directly at me. I stepped to the side and swung my racket, the ball skimmed low over the net. Nauru got to it and directed a cross-court pass. I ran to the other side of the court, doing my best to send the ball down the line. Nauru wasn't expecting it and, wrong-footed, barely made it to the other side of the court. Her lob went wide." Advantage, Miss Clerk". Match point... My god, I never expected this..."COME ON, WIST IE!" That was dad. I glared at him. What the hell had possessed them to call their only daughter Wisteria? I mean it was a gorgeous name, yes, but so darned embarrassing. That's why I introduced myself as Teri Clerk. The fact that the scoreboard showed "W. Clerk" was a bit of a give-away, but... I pulled my attention back to the matter in hand as the umpire called for quiet. The ball flew and dropped onto the court like a dead bird, bounced three times before I could get to it. There was a bleep echoing in my ears though and the call of "Let, first service" cut through my disappointment. Okay, so I could still win this. That final rally of the match was the longest I'd ever played. Her service was good, but my return was spot on, and she managed to get it back by the skin of her teeth. It was almost as though we were knocking up, rather than playing out the final point of the match. She wrong-footed me twice and I did the same to her, and then she tried a line drive. In response to my cross-court. I ran frantically across, racquet outstretched, only to see the ball bounce well out of reach..."OUT!" I couldn't believe it! "Game, set and Match, Miss Clerk". I blinked at the umpire in disbelief as the English folks in the crowd, who were really here to see Andy Murray (who was having his best year ever), erupted. I'd won! Furthermore, I was through to round two. Okay, so I was used to winning tennis matches, but not atthislevel. This was the highest level of competition in the world, this was one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, I was rubbing shoulders with the likes of Venus Williams, and I had won! People wanted my autograph, there were cameras in my face. Hell, you'd think I'd just won the damn championship, not a lousy first round match. I shook hands with Miss Nauru, the umpire and the linesmen and women, checking the man whose shoulder I had hit, smiled at him, "Are you okay?" He nodded, "OUI, merci". I nodded back, and thanked the ball boys and girls then accepted hugs and kisses from mum and dad, then headed off to the changing rooms. It's hard to be the number one tennis player in Russia, but one has to try and if somebody had to beat Maria, it might as well be me. This was my fifth Grand Slam and my second time at Roland Garros. I hadn't forgotten about my first match here. A thirty-minute wipe out against that Belorussian giant. I had grown since then and although Azania might be a step too high, I could at least put up a fight. My opponent that Sunday was Kirsten Flip kens, after Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters Belgium's new hope in dark days. She was quite a bit older than I was, but that would only be my advantage. We shook hands, coin flipped and I won the first serve. I bounced my racket on the clay surface and served. Clay wasn't my favorite surface at all but after a surprisingly short while I heard the umpire call out the 40 - love. I served again and after a small rally, Flip kens hit the ball over the baseline and the game was mine. This was going to be easy. At least I hoped it was. After the same surprisingly short while though the umpire called the 40 - love again. Damn it. My first Roland Garros experience came back to haunt me and after losing the second game, I lost the third and fourth as well. With a score of 3-1 it was my serve again and I managed a double fault. The rest of the game I struggled to get back into my rhythm and soon enough Flip kens managed to get on the set point at 40–15 with a score of 5-1. We managed a surprisingly long volley, but eventually she got me and the first set. My coach was giving me some hand signal coaching and after a refreshing drink and the world-famous banana we got back on the court on opposite sites. I knew I had to clear my mind to get through this first round. With Flip kens ranked only two places higher than me, I knew I had to beat her in order to make a change to beat the bigger opponents. The second set took much longer than the first. I had found some inner strength, and we went through a couple of deuces, advantages and even a few game points to either side. It was thrilling to see for the fans, but I knew I had to cling on and try to get this set. I did not want to go home again after two sets at Roland Garros. It was 6-7 in my advantage and after a long game I had the advantage at 40–40. Flip kens served and after a rally she hit the ball my way and I heard the umpire call 'Out'." Set, Ms. Semen ova." I let out a scream in delight and quickly dug into my second banana and bottle of energy drinks. The third set wasn't as exciting as the second. Perhaps it was her age, perhaps she had given up, but I managed a comfortable lead of 4-0 before she got back a game and then another. This was taking way too long for me. If I had to play more matches this tournament, which I really intended to, I couldn't waste too much energy on the first match. I changed my style to play a lot wider, making her run and move a lot more, and it paid off, 5-2. I served for what was the last game. Furthermore, I just couldn't let her win another. My strategy worked out, and soon she couldn't reach the far balls anymore."40-love." Matchpoint. I took a deep breath, threw the ball up and hit it in the far corner of the court. Flip kens couldn't get to it and missed it. I had won. This being my first grand slam match win, and I was over the moon and nearly forgot to shake hands with the Belgian when I danced into the dressing rooms. It was possibly the worst evening of my entire life so far. The adrenaline crash had me feeling like I just wanted to curl up and go do sleep. My coach was insisting I saysomethingto the reporters downstairs in the hotel lobby, Dad was ringing everyone he knew in the entire world to let them know what had happened, and mum was fussing over my hair, my make-up, my clothes, telling me I had to look my best for the photographers. All I really wanted to do was sleep. Well, no. Actually, my coach had a better suggestion. He was sitting at a desk in my hotel room - why they were all in my room, I didn't know, they all had perfectly good rooms of their own - and he was doing something on his laptop. "Teri?" He said softly, in a voice that I knew well. When he used that tone he wasn't trying to talk me into doing something I didn't necessarily need to do, like when he was trying to get me to talk to the press. No, this was the tone he used when there was something I had to do, or it would affect my career." Hmm?" I stood up from in front of the dresser, gently fighting off my mother's fussing, and moved to sit beside him on the couch." Teri, this is your next opponent". The screen was showing a brunette, almond face, high cheek bones, pale complexion. "Zoya Semen ova," he said. Mum and Dad hushed and moved to look too. "She's currently number nineteen in the WTA rankings. She was twenty until this afternoon when she knocked out the number eighteen seed, Kirsten Flip kens..." We watched the highlights of the match. "Notice her overhear volley? That's a danger to you. She's an inch shorter than you, that's all. Your attacking lob won't get past that volley." We watched more, Coach making appropriate comments all along. "See here, notice how she changes her pace? She's started making Flip kens run for the ball. That's tactical play. She knew she was tired, she knew her opponent was tired, but she figured that as Flip kens is older she would tire more quickly. So she made her opponent run." Coach looked at me, his green eyes flashing fire, his soft American accent hammering the words into my head. "Teri, you cannot play this opponent the way you usually do. You're tall and strong and against shorter, weaker opponents that is enough, usually, but Semen ova is a thinker. She plays tactically. To beat her you are going to need to out-think her"." I think... I play tactically...." I insisted." Hmph". Was all the reply I got. Coach changed the subject. "We need to find you a doubles partner too". That one surprised me. "Huh? Why?"" Because, first, when -motif, butwhenyou get knocked out of the singles, it will allow you to continue competing, it will get you more press exposure..." I groaned, "...and it's a requirement that you compete in at least one doubles tournament. Everyone is in one of the three. You can't compete in the men obviously..."" No shit, Sherlock", I giggled, waving my chest at him. He rolled his eyes." So there's mixed or ladies."" Ladies". I said instantly. The last thing I needed was press speculation about me and some boy. Romance was the last thing on my mind." Okay, ladies doubles it.... OH!" Coach was typing into the computer even as he was speaking, completing my belated entry into the Ladies doubles tournament. "Oh boy....""what?" I asked, worried. Coachneverused that tone of voice." You'll never guess who you just got assigned as a partner..." "I'm playing who?" My coach told me her name again." Hysteria Clerk?" Everybody laughed. We didn't speak English together, but we all understood English. Some better than others. My English was average to good. I sat down and looked at her." She's also your doubles partner."" My what?" I blinked at my coach. Clay wasn't my favorite surface, so I had asked him not to sign me up for the doubles at Roland Garros and safe it for the US or Australian open." I've signed you up for the doubles Zoya. You need to practice to play with somebody else before you have a chance at Melbourne Park."" Oleg you idiot. I want to focus on my singles. If I can make it to the third round, the last thing I want is to play a doubled with a British wildcard!" We argued a bit and I lost because of the simple fact that the match was set, and I was in the system already." Alright. Fine. So what do we know about Hysteria?"" Well," Oleg started and pulled out a copy of the Sun and grinned." Apparently she's got the best tits in British tennis, but I think she's got the best tits in Britain all together." With an angry look at the way he spoke about women, I snatched the paper from his hands and looked at it. They were indeed pretty impressive, but I couldn't say anything about it. God forbid if Oleg found out about my bisexual feelings or my parents. Or the Sun. God, they really are a fine pair." And tennis wise?"" She's shy and a little inexperienced and rather attacking in her play." I watched some of her highlights, but I wasn't overly impressed." She's a decent player but not nearly as good as Flip kens. If you play your normal style, you should have no problem beating her."" She looks tired and hot," I noticed near the end of the tape." They both do."" Good... very good." I was ready to take my shower or bath now, but before I left the lobby of the hotel we stayed in, Oleg called me back." Don't be too hard on her, you'll have to play with her in the doubles." After showing Oleg what I thought about that by giving him the finger, I left to my hotel room and went to take a shower, struggling to get the image taken on the Canary Islands by the Sun out of my head. The rest of the day I spend relaxing a bit and went to bed early. The next morning Oleg woke me early and after a typical sport breakfast, I went to the training court for my second round match on Wednesday. The practice courts were quiet at this time in the morning, which surprised me a little. I suppose, everyone who was competing later that day would be saving their energy, and everyone who wasn't would practice later... I didn't know, and I didn't care, I was just glad it was quiet. Coach led me onto a court and I stripped off my tracks, selected a racquet and a couple of official WTA practice balls. We were just warming up, when a familiar looking brunette and a beefy looking guy arrived and were clearly set on taking the next court but one over. Oh great, I thought. Not only do I have to play her next, and then be her partner in the doubles, but I have to be nice to her now... This was going to be awkward. I glared at Coach, but he shrugged and served the ball at me. Yes, atme... "OW! Coach?" The ball had hit me mid-thigh on my left leg. Coach had been quite a player in his day, and still had a vicious serve." Pay attention, Teri," he scolded me. I got my mind back on the practice, but I couldn't help my eyes drifting to my next opponent occasionally. She was good. Better than me, that was a fact. I could learn from watching her.... "TERI!"" Hmm? Oh, sorry..." My eyes had met hers, briefly, and something had passed between us, although I had no idea what. I got on with practicing. Wednesday morning was cool, with a light breeze blowing from the West. Not enough to curve a tennis ball in flight, but enough to keep a player cool We were on Court eleven, I learned as I was driven to the park. Right next to the Suzanne Lenglen court - the French equivalent of Wimbledon's Centre Court, where Miss Williams was going to be strutting her stuff at the same time. Part of me was grateful that, if everything went well, I wouldn't be meeting her until later, but another part of me was quivering at the thought of being knocked out of a Grand Slam by a legend. If you're going to lose, loose in style! Yesterday, Tuesday, I had spent relaxing, watching crappy French TV in between studying my opponent. Just from watching her, I was learning things about my own game, things I could improve on. I hoped, one day, I would actually be as good as her, if not better. I walked out onto the court to a massive cheer - from the stadium behind me. Maybe, one day, I would get that sort of ovation. There was a decent number of spectators, British flags outnumbering Russian ones, but not by much. I kissed mum and dad, shook hands with the umpire and my opponent. There was that flash of ....something, again. I didn't know what it was. Something in her eyes burned a hole in my soul. I looked away, won the toss and elected to serve. Minutes raced by like milliseconds, and soon I was standing on the court, bonding my first choice of match ball - I had learned to be picky the hard way, three years ago, when a ball I'd served fell apart in flight and dropped hopelessly into the net... Not something you see every day, but I never wanted it to happen again."PLAY", called the umpire, and I served the first ball. ACE! YES! I aced my first service in the match! "Fifteen Love". Feeling confident I moved across the court and served again. "FAULT!"Ah, crap. That would teach me to be cocky. Okay, okay, concentrate. Second service was in. I raced to the net for the short volley. Oleg said it was coincidence that I met her at the trainings court, but I knew him longer than today, he'd probably set this up. No matter. I nodded at her friendly assuming she already knew I was her next opponent. We started training but unlike her coach, mine had never played tennis before and I had to play against a machine. Although being on a different court, I had selected to be on the other side of the net from her, so I could see her train and maybe pick up a few weak points. The way she looked at me, something stirred, and again I got that image in my head of the Sun. This was going to be fun when we had to work together in the doubles. I completed training and studied her for the rest of the day. Tuesday I spend working out, running and in the sauna and Wednesday morning, I felt renewed from my rather long game with Flip kens. As we drove to the court, Oleg was quiet. He knew better than to talk to me in preparation of a match. I quickly got changed into my tennis kit. Unlike most, I wasn't wearing the white dress and white shoes. My dress was dark purple and my shoes were bright pink, something that was allowed on Roland Garros but not on Wimbledon that still upheld the all white dress code. Out on the court, I immediately noticed how many British fans had come. Only to be disappointed. I shook the umpire's hand, Clerk's hand and then lost out on the coin flip. Fair enough. Of course, I had a game plan, but I was still a bit surprised at her serve. It was a little better than I expected and she scored an Ace. Smiling at her friendly, I watched her serve again, same style. This time I was ready and hit the ball back just hard enough for it to make it over the net. I wasn't going to let her get into the game. Tactics straight away. Let her work for it. She had to get to the net, hit the ball like I had wanted her, low but hard. The ball went up high to my side of the court and I hit it as hard as I could downwards into the far corner, 15 - all. I grinned and waited at my baseline for her serve. To distract her, I grabbed both my breasts (which weren't nearly as impressive as hers) and made sure she saw me. Good luck with your serve Clerk... What the hell? She was grabbing her titties for some reason. OH GOD! She'd seen that goddamn headline. Probably seen the photos too. BITCH!BEEP"LET!" "First Service" The ball had just clipped the top of the net, landed just inside the service box and gone on to hit the back fence. "Damn!" I swore softly. I still had two serves on this point. No need to stint on the oomph!BING"OUT!" Shit! This time it had landed just on the wrong side of the center line, and had still beaten her. I was suitor tempted to go for the ace a third time. Coach caught my eye, as if he knew what I was thinking and shook his head. I shrugged and planted my second serve in the center of the service box. I started to move forward for the close volley, and saw her change her stance slightly. Damn it, I was already moving forward. I hit the bakes and backpedaled as the lob flew over my head, landing just inside the baseline and bouncing high. That gave me enough time to get back behind it, as it came down again I it the smash, exactly as if I was serving again, only this time I had the entire court to aim at. I aimed for the far corner, and followed the ball in towards the net. So she actually managed to foresee my lob and backed up to return it to me. The way she did it surprised me a little, but I was positioned correctly and slide over the clay to get to the ball. I managed to let the ball just bounce off my racket and slowly make its way towards the net. It was a risky ball and could easily land on my own side of the net, so I was praying it would clear the net and bounce into Clerk's side close to the net. She had to run to the front of her side to get the ball and when she would make it, I was ready to plant it hard at the baseline. I was often criticized for not playing 'beautiful' tennis, being sporty and simply trying to keep the match as short as possible. This obviously meant I had to take risks that when they paid off, worked very well, and I would tire out my opponent or break them quickly. Sometimes it backfired and went completely the opposite way. The other thing was that I was much fitter than most of the ladies, so I could easily get through a 3 set match but other players weaknesses are there to exploit. If that's being sporty, so be it. When I saw the ball get over the net, this gamble at least had paid off. Now all she had to do was get to the ball, and I'd smash it at her baseline, making the score 15–30. At her next serve, I placed my hands on my boobs again, this time with some laughter coming from the Russian fans. The umpire was quick to ask for silence and I looked at Clerk, almost taunting her. Come out of your shell little gray mouse. Get out of your comfort zone and let's get this game over. I saw the gentle push shot just touch the top of the net, and dribble down on to my side. If I hadn't already been racing in for the volley that would have been the point right there. I couldn't let the ball land because there was no bounce in it, it would hit the clay twice before I could get my racquet under it. So I lunged forward, and hit the volley low, flicking the ball up to get it over the net. There was a gasp from the crowd and then the unmistakeableTHONGsound of the ball being smashed down. My opponent had raced to the net too, and I was helpless to do anything but turn my head to see the yellow sphere streak past me to land just inside the baseline. I was ready to serve again, and the bitch grabbed her boobs again, prompting laughter. The umpire called for quiet, but I was blushing hotly. I stood straight, left the baseline without serving and walked to the umpire's chair. "Excuse me," I said softly, "but you saw that, yes? I don't think she should be allowed to do that." The umpire robbed and spoke softly into his microphone, "Warning for inappropriate behavior, Miss Semen ova". There, that fixed you, bitch. Do that again and I get a point. Do it again after that and I get four points. And one more after that gives me the match! I smiled at her, enjoying the expression on her face.THWACKwhent my racquet on the ball. It hit the line smack on, and wentTHUDinto the back fence." Thirty-all". My next serve was a blistered, the scoreboard showed it as 106mph, straight at Miss Semolina. She was lucky to get her racquet to it, because if it had hit her it would have hurt. I watched the ball fly high over the net and come down, moved to smash it back, then stepped away, allowing it to bounce out of play." Forty Thirty". The cries of "Come On Teri" were rising. I nodded, psyching myself up for the last serve of the game." Quiet please", the umpire called, and I readied and hit another blistering serve... Right into the damn net. Okay, calm down, Teri, relax. You can do this. She would be expecting a gentler second serve. I would risk it. I power-served again, the ball landed in the outside corner of the service box, and flew towards the crowd." Game Miss Clerk. Miss clerk leads by one game to love". Phew.... Okay change ends and get ready to receive.... Okay so she had won the first game, but she needed the umpire for it. My boob game hadn't worked, and the Russian crowd slightly booed at the decision of the umpire, but I wasn't out of options yet. This was my serve game, I'd get it to a draw. I bounced the ball a few times, threw it up and stretched myself, only to catch the ball again and bounce it again. It was all designed to get Clerk out of her concentration. I repeated this but this time when I caught the ball I immediately threw it up and served, catching her off guard. 15–0. I began my second serve with the bouncing again and served a good ball directly at Clerk. What followed was a nicer alley, something I had wanted. As long as I took the initiative I'd be fine, and I made her work for it before coming to the net and lobbing the ball over head to make the 30 - love. Another valley resulted in the 40–0, and I finished the game point by a serve as hard as I could. It was a longer game than the first because of the valley's, but I had managed to get to 1-1 and see how fit Clerk really was. Long valley's were a killer for the less fit and although Clerk did look fit, I was confident I was the fittest. Shit, shit, shit. I had lost that game without winning a single point. She was better than me, I knew that, but come on... And her big hits and long rallies were eating at my energy. I needed to get through my service game, and then indulge in a banana and a drink of Accolade® Sport. Okay, concentrate, don't let her gamesmanship distract me. Serve... Straight into the damn net! Okay, never mind, get the second one in and on target. Semolina hit the ball back so damn hard that I had trouble getting my racket to it. The ball went into the net again. Love-15. I served again and got the ball in, but again my opponent hit it back so hard that I felt the shock run up my arm. The ball went over the net, though and this time I followed it in. As the smash came I reached for it and volleyed, directing the ball down. Unfortunately, it had such power in it from the smash that it bounced high. The Russian backed up and watched it. I knew what was coming and retreated as fast as I could to the baseline. As the ball came down again, Semolina smashed it. I got some racquet to it just, but it ended in the net. Love-30. Come ON, Teri! Don't give her three break points. I served straight down the line, There was no buzzer, no line call, and the ball thwacked into the fence. 15-30, that's better. I tried to do the same again.BUZZ!"OUT!" Crap! Okay concentrate. No, don't risk the second one... I ran in and volleyed the return, only to have my volley volleyed in exchange, tapped easily passed me, bouncing just inside the base-line. 15-40. Two break points! She got her racquet to my next serve, but the ball went out, bouncing in between the tram-lines. I smirked at her. "We're not playing doubles yet...!" That got a laugh that lifted my spirits. Obviously news had gotten around that we were to be partners. 30-40. Still break point... I served again, and this time Seminole (or whatever her name was) steered it into another long valley. Somehow, I felt she was deliberately playing with me, that she could finish it whenever she wanted. Every time I tried to, I was thwarted. Until an attacking lob that went over her head bounced just a fraction outside the baseline."OUT!"" Game, Miss Semen ova. Miss Semen ova Leads by two games to one"I sat dejectedly in my chair and ate my banana, and drank from my plastic bottle of isotonic sports drink, and felt a little better. So I was a break of serve down. It was early days yet. I could win that back... Couldn't I? Two sets Zoya... two sets. Do not let her get one... Invest now, reap later. Clerk looked a bit lost and sad and had this not been a professional tennis match, I might have cheered her up a bit, but there was too much at stake. Obviously there was the dilemma that if I wiped her off the court today, her morale might take a hit, and she'd be useless in the doubles, but really my main goal was the singles. The third round lay ahead. In the last game Clerk had been victim of my long valley's again and hopefully my tactics worked. Sure I'm fit, but I cannot go 6 games in 2 sets of long rallying either. My strategy was purely to wear her out in the first set and then have an easy second. Two games to one, she still had a chance of getting back but 3-1 would be a little blow already, then the 4-1 usually means the set is mine. I get up again and walk to my side of the court and glance around the crowd. Some flags are still waving, but the game has been rather exciting so far, much to my dismay. Exciting games means I'm wasting too much energy. After a deep breath I concentrate on the task at hand. Bounce, bounce.... throw... I slam the ball into the net. Then quickly after I serve again, another trick. The opponent concentrates and then you hit the net, breaking their concentration. Serve quickly and you might catch them off guard. Not Clerk though. Although late, she does react and manages to get her racquet against it. We valley again and after 6 times, I shoot a cannonball at the far corner that she misses. 15 - love. My next serve I start moaning. AAAA-iee... The serve is perfect and we valley. Like my countrymen, I moan and after 4 or 5 times in the valley, I come towards the net, lob it over and get a point. 30 - love. I completely screw up my next serve and Clerk gets to 30–15 without doing anything. The next serve she's more active and I have to extort myself a few times to get to her balls, but eventually she has no answer to my overhead rocket that bounces just before the baseline. 40–15. Concentration again. Bounce, throw, moan. Clerk places a shot back, a good shot, but I see it coming and return it to her in the far left corner. She gets to it and I return the shot to the far right corner. This continues for two times more, every time she manages to get to it just in time. The third time, she misses, and the ball bounces in the far left and rolls out." Game. Miss Semen ova. Miss Semen ova Leads by three games to one." This was looking bad... Soda bean Semolina was all over my game, I was having to do a lot of running around and... Damn-it, electing to serve first had been a tactical error. It meet that she was serving after the 90-second break each time, while I was serving after receiving her serves. Oh well, lesson learned. There was still the occasional cry of support, mostly from Mum and Dad, sitting there in the first row. I smiled at them and tried to analyze something in my head. She'd almost wrong-footed me with that fault-and-serve move. I wondered if I could try some tactics of my own... I selected two balls, deliberately keeping one that was looking a little worn on one side. My dad was a big Cricket fan, and never missed a match when Hampshire were playing in the County Championships. He'd tried to interest me, but I preferred Tennis. However, he'd taught me all about swing bowlers... I selected the first ball, the worn one. Twisted it so it faced the way I wanted, threw it up and struck it, not as hard as perhaps I would normally do on a first serve, aiming for just outside the edge of the court. To my delight and utter astonishment, the ball did as I had hoped, and turned in the air, bounced in, just inside, and then continued to travel off true as it wrong-footed my opponent. 15-love. I grinned. Perhaps I should have saved that for a more appropriate time, but I hadn't even known if it would work. I might use it again, as the balls got older. I served for the second point.BEEP"Let, First Service". Hmm. An expression of frustration seemed to cross Seminole's face. This would be very tricky, but I would see if I could make her more frustrated. I was ignoring her bouncing around like a mad bunny. Heck, I did the same when she was serving. I smacked the ball directly at the wire with enough force to carry it over.BEEP"Let, First Service". Okay, this wasn't very sporting, but then neither were some of her tactics. I did it a third time. The first had been accidental, but the other two were deliberate. And then, on my fourth attempt, I was a little bit low. The ball hit the wire, but went down on my side of the net. Before the ball boy had even cleared the court, I served again, this time hard and fast down the center line. Hah! Teach you to play silly buggers with me, girl! 30-love. My next serve she managed to get back, but I could tell, I'd put her off a bit, from the fact that I was able to put her return away with an overhead smash. 40-love. I think the Russian girl realized that she was about to lose a game without scoring a point, because she seemed to shake herself and concentrate harder. I served, hard, flat and low with some side-spin - and let the ball curve a little (not as much as the worn ball had) towards the edge of the court. Seminole got to it, but the spin on the ball sent it back down the tramlines and out of play. "Game Miss Clerk. Miss Seminole Leads, by three games to two. Better. But I was still a service game down. At least I'd avoided the humiliation of a double-break. As I ate another piece of fruit and selected a different racquet from the stack I had with me, I glanced at her. She was psyching herself up, berating herself for losing that game. I, on the other hand, was just glad to be here, playing with the big girls. And suddenly I had an idea. I would get her back for that boob-grabbing crap she pulled. Under cover of a towel, while wiping my face, I reached up inside my top and stretched my sports-bra down. The thing was made from elastic anyway and was quite resilient. I popped both my breasts out of it, and left it supporting them from underneath. Then I undid the buttons at the neck of my shirt, before the umpire called time and I headed onto the court again. I leaned forwards, perhaps a bit more than I should, my boobs swinging down, unrestrained within my top. I bobbed from side to side, setting them swinging. Damn, that felt nice! I inwardly rolled my eyes at myself. The idea was to distract my opponent not distract myself. Really!? Taking your boobs out on a tennis court? Fine. Let's see how she could focus with her breasts bouncing all the way through my serve. Of course, I make a point to the umpire, but that wouldn't be much fun. She wanted to set me off by taking her breasts out again, let's see who's going to be set off. Long Dallas was the key here. If she wants to bounce, bounce is what she'll get. I'd be lying if I wasn't a bit aroused though. On the picture they looked good, in real, they possibly looked even better, and her plan worked a bit. My first serve was in the net and my second only just made it in. She returned and the first rally began. I did my best to make her run for it tiring her out bouncing those boobies all around the court. This was almost worth losing a game for. It didn't look comfortable at all and perhaps the people on the stands and the umpire could see more movement coming from her chest than before. Serves her right! Thinking she could outsmart me. When I finally made the 15-0, I didn't give her much time to put her goods back where they belong and quickly served again. It worked... To a degree, anyway. That killer first serves almost punched a hole in the net. Her second was right on the back line of the service box and I smashed it for what should have been a put-away. Against any of the opponents I was used to playing against, it would have won me the point. But the Russian chick was faster on her feet than most of my previous opponents in the lesser championships I'd competed in up to now and the ball came sailing back over the net in a defensive lob. I had to run back for it, my nipples chafing -interestingly- against the material of my shirt. My return smash reminded me of a snoopy cartoon where Snoopy hits a smash, and it goes "bloop" against his racquet, and Molly Volley (his doubles partner) tells him that hitting a put-away should go thong not bloop! But it went over the net at least. Unfortunately, I lost the initiative with that one and Seminole hammered the ball across the court. I ran for it, breasts doing interesting things, got it back over the net, skidded to a stop and raced back the other way to get her next cross-court return. Damn but she was wearing be out and this was the first point! This time I stopped more easily and anticipating another cross-court, headed back the other way, only to have the damn bitch hit the ball right at the spot I'd just vacated. I got back to it, but my racquet angle was wrong, and the ball went out. I knew what she would do. She would serve quickly. But she had to wait until I was in position, so I turned my back and quickly squeezed my assets back where they would be more secure. My nipples were tingling, though, in a way that... Damn, but I was suddenly horny. I wanted to go back to my room and masturbate... I was so shocked by this realization that I barely registered the ball flying over the net and slamming into the back fence. Thirty love? SHIT! Wake UP, Teri. I got my racquet to her next serve and another rally began. Getting to 40 - love was easy. I pushed out another rally and got the game, 4-2 in the first set. Two more points and the first set was mine. She had the assets back where they belonged but her serve game wasn't as impressive as it was before. She looked a bit distracted. Furthermore, she tried hard, and we got to deuce after a few nice rallies which had her run all over the court to get them. Agility beats stamina anytime, and I was more agile than she was. She served, and I returned it to the right back corner, then the left, then the right and as I had hoped and predicted, Clerk went to the left corner for the next one, so I planted it hard on the right side just before the line." Advantage Mademoiselle Semen ova." Again she served, and I managed to get a slow drop shot out landing just behind the net on her side. She got to it, returned it and I ran towards the net and got the ball where I wanted it most. High above me. I got my racquet against it and hit it hard down with my backhand. It was a cannonball shot, and it landed behind Clerk on the baseline." Out!" I raised both my hands at the umpire to protest. He got out of the chair, ran to the place, inspected and then overruled the linesman." Game Miss Semen ova. Five to two." Shit and triple shit. I was now two breaks down and Semolina was serving for the set. I was getting worn out by the way she was constantly running me from side to side of the court too. Furthermore, I had to do something about that, but whenever I tried it on her, she just pranced light as a feather across and slammed the damn ball back over the net!15-love, 30-love, I managed to force an error, and got to 30-15, then it was 40-15, and things were looking bleak. The ball came flying at my backhand, I wrapped it back over the net, and she caught the volley and smacked the ball down softly just my side of the net. I ran forward, racket low, and slicked it back up, getting the ball high enough to go over her head. She ran back, let it bounce, Adam! The thing shot back across the net. I was still up court and could only try and get my racquet in the way. I felt my right hand go numb from the impact, the ball had hit the frame of the racquet, and went sailing off into the crowd somewhere." Game and First Set, Miss Seminole. Miss Seminole leads by one set to love."Ah, crap. I went to sit down and looked at my racquet. That hit had actually put a crack in the carbon-fire frame. Bananas. Flavoured water. Isotonic (whatever that means) energy drink. And a quick trip to the bathroom. At least my nipples weren't sore anymore. Why that had made me feel so horny I don't know. Not something to try again...!" Time". I headed back onto the court. My serve. I was determined to win this game, and this set..." Love-15" Shit!" Love-30" Double shit!"15-30" Better."30-all" Okay, getting somewhere."30-40" Break point, bugger!" Deuce". Okay, saved it." Advantage Miss Seminole". Shit shit shit! Another break point!" Deuce". Phew!" Advantage Miss Clerk". YES! Okay, concentrate....."FAULT!" Crap!"FAULT!" "Deuce". Double Crap! Or as Snoopy would put it, 'Joe Choke!' Getting cocky there, Teri, paid the price." Advantage Miss Clerk". Yes, back again. I served, probably my best serve of the match so far. Straight down the center line, bouncing right smack on the junction with the center and service lines, sailed past the Semolina Kid at a hundred and twenty MPH, slammed into the back wall."FAULT!"" Huh?" I glared at the linesman, and turned to the umpire, "No way, there was no bell!"" Overruled, Game Miss Clerk, Miss Clerk leads in the second set by one game to love. Miss Seminova leads by one set to love." Okay! Over to you, Rice Pudding... The game took a lot longer than I had anticipated or wanted, but eventually I managed to get the win with 6-2. We shook hands at the end, knowing we were playing the doubles together, but that was about it for the niceties of the day. Oleg congratulated me on the win and after a quick shower I went back to the hotel to get some rest and a nice long bath. The next day didn't start too great for me. Oleg had set up a meeting in a restaurant with Clerk to get to know her before we'd be talking about strategies and shit. This wasn't bad on its own but the fact that my 3rd round match was to the youngest of the Williams sisters was a bit of a bummer. I had to be fully fit to have a chance to her and the last thing I wanted was to play a double with a girl I had never even heard of until a few days ago. Dressed in only a dark blue dress and some slippers, I went to the restaurant to meet with my doubles partner. The waitress apparently knew I was coming and guided me to a table somewhere in the sun and offered me some fresh orange juice. She knew about my diet and offered to wait serving it until Clerk had arrived. She obviously had been instructed. Oleg no doubt. Despite really not feeling for it, Clerk couldn't help it and I decided the best way to get through with this was to be nice and polite. When she showed up, I waved to let her know where I was. When she sat down, I immediately took the initiative." Yesterday was all professional, nothing personal. I don't want that to get between us in our doubles game." I suppose it was inevitable, really. Furthermore, I put up a good fight, but it was a miracle;e I'd got through to the second round. Making it to round three was a pipe dream. Maybe next year? I chuckled softly as I headed back to the dressing rooms, listening to the cries from the "big girl's" court where Williams was playing a third set. It would have been nice to meet my idol on the field of battle (so to speak) but what the heck. And then I had been informed by Coach that I was to meet up with her for breakfast. I glared at him. "Why?"" Because she's your partner, the least you can do is try and act civil?"" Hmmph". I sighed softly. I suppose it wasn't the first time that someone has been knocked out of a major singles tournament by their doubles partner. In fact didn't Venus knock Serena out one time at Wimbledon? Probably. So the next morning I made my way to this rather swanky restaurant, to see my erstwhile opponent sitting in the sun. I put on a warm smile and sat opposite her. I'd done a bit of research - well, actually just typed things into Google Translate - basically to see if I could get things off on a slightly better footing than 'thanks for massacring me in the singles', which is what I wanted to say." Dobroye outro," I offered. From her expression I guessed I totally mangled the pronunciation. I grinned. "No, don't tell me, let me guess, I just insulted your grandmother by accident? Blame Google, that's what they said was 'Good morning', in Russian". The waitress came over and supplied me with coffee and a croissant. Not one of those little tasteless things you get in England either: this was big and fluffy and still hot, fresh from the oven. I love French petite-déjeuner. I tore off a bit, smeared it with raspberry jam and dunked it in my coffee, which came in a big bowl, then popped it in my mouth." So, uh, good luck Tomorrow", I smiled. But of course that wasn't what we needed to talk about. No, this Thursday morning was all about this afternoon, and the Women's doubles round 1 match against Jamila Gajdosova, the naturalized Australian from Slovakia and her Slovak partner Janette Casanova. I shrugged, and listened as the Russian told me in no uncertain terms that she was not going to be carrying me. "Zoya," I managed not to call hersoyaby the skin of my teeth - quite literally, I just managed to get the fricative of the Z into the sibilant S. "I will play my best, and so long as you don't start grabbing your boobs again and distracting me..." I blushed a little. There was something about this woman that made me squirm, nicely.

Doubles [Dashenka & Chrystal]|rating:3.0

Deviance - VtM

You enter the machine shop, obviously closed at such a late hour. It's dark, but a light is quickly found and turned on. Tools cover benches, and a car is half-assembled on a lift. Jerry cans sit against one wall, and a fire extinguisher is on the wall near it. There was a mysterious ringing noise in the darkness, but with the light turned on you can quickly discern it to be the phone. It's set against the wall, between two large windows, which show a half moon. Adrien (Ambassador to the Brutal Nation.)" Are you expecting a call ?" Adrien will look to his new acquaintance. The Nos will cross the room and pick up the receiver but will not immediately speak waiting for the caller to announce themselves. He will take out a pen and scratch down the time, date and telephone number of the autos hop if it's available either written down or on the phone. While he is on phone and searching he will also look for a bomb in the room or detonator linked to the phone. If there is no response or greeting he will speak up." Joe's Body shop, you break it, we fix it. American cars extra, foreign cars at a premium. " Lance:Lance looked at the phone with a great deal of distrust. Now he was definitely, definitely sure that he was being played. He simply shrugged as the Nosferatu went to pick up the phone call with a great deal of disregard and distrust, but allowed the conversation to take place. It was probably best that he did not pick up the phone anyway.IOC for Rapscallion:Spoiler Hide Should we say that this happened right after your PM from the 18th or your last PM, before you left? Will wolf:Spoiler Hide IOC: Nah this could happen as we were heading for the door. Shi:Shi sighed, then turned back to the phone, leaning against the wall and idly glancing at the poster someone had pasted on the opposite wall. Hearing the voice, she raised a mental eyebrow--a body shop? Oh, well. Hopefully it was the right number." Thanks, but I don't need a car fixed. I'm looking for a 'Lance'?" Her accent was noticeable, but fairly minor. Adrien The Nos will look at Lance and smile." Well it's just happens we have that model in stock. Hold on I will turn you over to one of reps, and he'll get you started." The Nos will cover the phone and hand the receiver to Lance." It's for you, Player." Spoiler Hide Pardon, misunderstood. Will edit my post. Adrien The Nosferatu will circle around the desk and sit down while watching Lance talk on the phone. Picking up a discarded magazine he will leaf through the pages while waiting. Lance:Lance smiled, though there was something in his eyes that would appear to be Adrien that something just was not quite right." Joe's place." He said as he took the phone. There was a notebook and pen in front of him, so he took that in hand." Lance speak-- oh who the hell am I kidding, how the hell did you know I would be here!" He said agitated. At least Shi was pleased to note that the information was correct. She'd had quite enough in general of being led about confusedly." I was told by, well, a friend, that I could find you here. Perhaps,"she went on,"you would care to clear up some points for me? I have quite a few questions." Adrien The Nosferatu will chuckle at the exchange and keep reading the magazine he found."Oh, look Calgary has won the Grey Cup." Lance:Lance sighed as he gave the Nosferatu a look that, if there was any question about his clan certainly clarified it." I'll try."he said into the phone. He was very, very sick of getting the run around as well, and it could tell." Let me guess his name was Samuel?" Shi was surprised, and blinked, not that he could see it over the phone. She adjusted her hat, which was starting to get too hot." Hmm? No, it was a woman, though her name has momentarily escaped me. Oh, another quick question: do you happen to know an 'Alex'?" Lance:Lance sighed and rolled his eyes and began to tap it against the pad of paper. If there was a word to describe him, it would be: agitated." Who are you anyway? Whatever. No, wait a sec--"he placed the phone's receiver on his shoulder as he spoke to his Nessie friend." You know an Alex?" He raised an eyebrow,"or are you Alex?" After a second, he placed the phone back to his ear shaking his head.Besides, he didn't even get that darn man's name either. Samuel was the name of the bartender; the pencil's lead broke. Adrien The Nos will shake his head twice under interrogation without making eye contact." Nope, name's Adrien. Don't know an Alex or Samuel"He will continue to read the magazine during the conversation." It would seem that someone knows who we are." Lance:"Nope, neither me nor my associate know an Alex." He sighed into the phone immediately after. "Look we should meet. We're being played, and"he sighed yet again." All of us,"he took a look at the Nosferatu,"someplace. Not here. Not public. You pick the place." He shrugged." I want to get this straight, and I'm getting tired of being played." Truthfully he didn't trust either of his associates, and he wasn't doing a lot to hide the fact,"and I don't think we can do this ... alone. He ... she wanted them to group together; he knew it, he could feel it, but darn it, he would figure it out. Adrienne will set aside the magazine and look to Lance with a puzzled expression. And say softly enough to be heard by Lance. " "Well done. An alliance ? Interesting idea.". Adrien will tidy the room up where he is sitting and stand up adjusting his backpack. Again just for Lance"I'm an associate ? And here I thought we had an adversarial relationship. Ready when you are Lance." Of course Shi had expected that answer. She had not, however, expected the other reply. What, all of us played? Even me? Huh. "Well, I suppose it certainly couldn't hurt. I do get the feeling that there is a lot more going on than I have any idea of. Um. Meeting...in, I don't know, there's a place behind the Max Bell Theatre. Work for you?" Lance:"Maxwell theater?" He poised the question to Adrien. Adrien"There are four theaters there in that area. Can she be more specific in general or is she meeting us on the street." A bit of annoyance will creep into his voice as The Nos will move to the door. "Shotgun !!" Lance:Lance sighed at the Loss in question, and shrugged. It was obvious that he didn't know the city that, that well yet, if at all. And then something clicked in him as he got a better memory of it in question."Umm, the Calgary theater?" It was the only one he really remembered ... for obvious reasons." Look for the biker and the ...", he decided that it was best to leave the Nosferatu out of it and sighed as the Nosferatu went outside, claiming, shotgun for a vehicle which he didn't actually own, but he did have a key for. (He was a forward thinker after all)"bike? And you'll look like what?..."[IOC: If you answer with whatever form of dress; he'll say: "great, ciao" and then hang up. If you say I'll find you there, he'll say ... "Fine." and sigh again then hang up... I just want to speed this along a little.]" The car ain't mine, so ...he didn't really have anything to finish that sentence with."let's not do anything stupid."he sighed. Adrien"Yes that's the one of four in a tight cluster. I know the area we can go there pretty easily. I'll look like me for now, but only you will see me for the first bit of the exchange. We can park the car some blocks away and move by foot that way no stray bullets will damage this fine automobile of yours." The Nos will move with Lance and scan the surroundings as they leave and pauses at the door to look around before moving to the car. You manage to arrive at the theater in question, avoiding a collision thanks only to Lance's handy driving skill. The man had screamed something at you as he cut you off. Something about trash. The theaters, though large, were kept pristine. Video cameras swept the pathways, entrance-ways, and parking lots. Large, armed men patrolled in regular teams, protecting the sanctity of the arts. With all the chaos going on, there was no chance for error. You were accosted by the first pair mere moments upon leaving your car, but once they deemed you were unarmed and therefore not a threat, you were free to walk as you would. Good thing you'd left all your bombs and guns at home. You managed to find the meeting spot easily, and there you waited, watching the clockwork movement of the men, noting, to your surprise, some women among the guards, mostly indistinguishable from the rest, but some were so strikingly different it was hard not to. Still, they all looked like ants, swarming over their "hill", guarding it from anything deemed a threat. The woman on the phone arrived soon after, and it was clear she was not one of the guards. A petite Asian woman, dressed in traditional fashion; she carried herself hurriedly, if slightly nervously. As Adrien had attempted to hide in the shadows, she made a beeline for Lance, rushing past guards who mostly ignored her. She was familiar from some place, maybe a book or a magazine, but you couldn't quite place her. She gave a hurried description of herself, and agreed to the meeting spot, then hung up as well and found her way there, pausing only to remove her disguise. Somehow, she wasn't quite sure how, she managed to make her way to the spot without getting seriously noticed by the guards who were all abuzz about, well, something, and spotting the biker (surely there could only be one), hurried her way over.(Oh, and she looks rather like this.) Adrien The Nos will watch the precision and dedication of the guards as they move through. He will use unseen presence to mask himself from the guards and the new vampire. He will remind Lance that only he can see him and move slowly behind the Brutal. Once there he will cloak himself in the shadows. Spoiler Hide IOC: Unless someone knows I'm there I essentially invisible. I well roll for Unseen Presence in case I need to speak or the Toreador breaks out Sussex. Oh Yea, one success. Level 1 • Cloak of Shadows The vampire may be unnoticed by most, by hiding completely motionless in a shadow, or in a place that puts an object (not necessarily an object big enough to hide behind) between herself and others who might see her. No roll is required. Level 2 • Unseen Presence Roll: Wits + Stealth, difficulty 6 The vampire may go unseen, and even be subconsciously avoided, by others. No roll is required unless someone is looking for the vampire, or the vampire is moving in an abrupt manner, as during speech or combat. (1d10)[6] (1d10)[2] (1d10)[7] (1d10)[1] (1d10)[1] (1d10)[7] (1d10)[7] Lance:Lance, who now knew what he was looking for, stopped and waved, propping his eyebrow up to make sure she was who she was, but smiled, just the same, a nervous smile. The girl had brass something to dress like that in this kind of political climate, he smiled a far more genuine smile, he liked that." Lance. We talked on the phone?" He was not going to bring up Adrien until it was absolutely necessary. After all there was no use breaking the Masquerade (he still didn't know her to be kindred after all) over a matter such as an introduction." Perhaps we should go and speak in a Starbucks or something." He was being careful not to eye the security guards, but they did make him feel nervous, slightly.IOC: There probably is only one biker around. This would be one of the nicer districts in town, not the place for low-class grease-monkeys. =P Won is funny that way. Edit: Oh yeah what I look like. Black leather jacket, torn blue jeans, black biker boots, sunglasses, and long, brown hair. If you can't guess his clan, then he ain't doing his job right. =P Adrien The Nos will nod to Lance and move with him and Shi after activating Unseen presence again. 4 Successes. Spoiler Hide (1d10)[1] (1d10)[6] (1d10)[10] (1d10)[10] (1d10)[8] (1d10)[9] (1d10)[9] Adrien So 5 total successes. Spoiler Hide (1D10)[9] Wood for 10s !! Courage had always been Shi's strongest asset, and she was quite proud of it. At the moment, though, she couldn't help but still feel a little nervous--after all, readjust gotten herself involved in something a lot larger than herself, and every bit as--no, probably more--than the mortal politics she sought to change. In any case, she smiled back. A good sign." I'm Zhang Shi. Please call me Shi." She looked him over hurriedly as she did everyone, deciding he didn't look too bad. Trustworthy, at least. Spoiler Hide Sorry, missed the reply. Will roll to see if she notices Adrien. What's the pool again? Perception+Sussex...? Whether or not she noticed the other vampire, she glanced around. Yeah, it was an upscale neighborhood--for her? Of course!--but the presence of even the one biker was making her uneasy." That actually sounds like a good idea." She smoothed her hair down, trying to remember if she'd passed one. In an undertone, she added,"Er, I'm rather...new. Can we actually handle drinks there?" Adrien The Nos will move with his companions preceding them and looking around for trouble on the way to the Starbucks. Lance:"Zhang Shi,"he mumbled making sure he remembered her name. It certainly sounded like a Chinese name to him. He smiled a small one, all the while asking how in the name of heck she got that darn number, but it was more out of fear than anything else. Lance stopped and stared at the woman when asked that question, and nodded that it was possible. All the while thinking, 'man, oh man, oh man alive,' how did I get myself into this one. She could be, was most likely, someone who was going to kill them both, a hunter; he could feel it, but at the same darn time she could just be a confused kindred." With enough life everything is possible,"he mumbled. If she was kindred and didn't understand that one, then they were in deep, deep doo-doo. If she did understand it and was not kindred, they were in deep, deep doo-doo. Lance turned around and started to turn towards where his car was. He remembered for a fact that they were parked near a Starbucks (the darn shops popped around like rabbits) and he huffed past. The majority of people"This way." He stopped, and then continued to walk. And it was just then that he realized that he was leading a ship of fools. Spoiler Hide In accordance with the third edition rules. To look and act like human you spend as much blood as 8- humanity score, and it lasts for a full scene. Loss are exempt. Adrien The Loss will stop briefly to skiffle a chuckle. This guy is priceless for a Brutal, and she is toting around the name of a dead Chinese empress. Man, I can't wait to go to Starbucks. Leaving the gardens behind, Shi is struck by the momentary impulse that someone is watching you leave. Of course, with all the guards, cameras, and weird men peeking from the bushes it was hard not to get that impression. On a second look, you couldn't tell if you'd imagined the men or not. The bushes looked normal enough. Making your way to a Starbucks was easy, as their omnipresent nature deemed necessary. Perhaps somewhere, somehow, there was a single city in the world without one. Maybe. This one, like all the others, was filled with the Trend clientele, sipping non-fat vanilla half-soy bull crap. There was some guy playing acoustic guitar and warbling old Nirvana songs. Someone should really tell him that Kurt Cobain is dead, and he ain't coming back. The line was obvious, giving you a little bit of time to talk before you needed to order. Adrien The Loss will move ahead of the group and duck into a side alley and drop the cloaking ability. Hefting his backpack he will move into the Starbucks and move into line. Once at the head of line he will order a seven pump no water vent chai latte and pay with a one hundred bill. Once he receives the change he will stuff into the tip jar." Thanks." The Loss will move to a table and set up his Alienware laptop with the free Wi-Fi that the coffee chain offers. He will google the names "Zhang Chi". He will bring the cup of Chai up to his lips to blow on it. Looking up he will nod to Lance as he walks in. Always quick on the uptake, Shi more or less figured what he meant. Well, okay. The situation probably could be worse, then. In any case, she nodded, and on feeling bizarrely observed, she glanced around again, looking to see how much surveillance she was really under. After all, in China such a feeling was justified, probably, but here she should be more careful. Soon coming to the place, she rolled her eyes at the somewhat tacky nature of the decor and, for that matter, the clientele. Probably very liberal. Ah, well. Glancing around, she also happened to catch that one nodding to the other...must know him. She sighed, finding a spot." So. About the situation." Lance:Lance sighs upon seeing his 'good friend' the Nosferatu (tapping at his laptop). Of course the 'burn victim' was just hap-haphazardly tapping at his laptop in the middle of flipping downtown Calgary. Of course, what else should he expect! True the guy wasn't quite a breach, but it was incredibly inconspicuous. He sighed again, louder, and with more intensity. As she sat down, he muttered,"we should probably buy something... before we--I--get hassled." Again he was wearing a tattered leather jacket, very few people hassle thuggish men, but, still, he stuck out like a sore thumb, best to act natural." Look you see him,"he nodded to Adrien,"he's my associate. Why don't you go sit with him whilst I grab us something to drink--what you want?" Spoiler Hide He'll take her order (if she wants anything at all) and then go and stand in line .... like a consumer and sigh, heavily. Adrien The Nos will finish with the laptop and power it down in advance of the group coming over to him. He will slide it into his backpack and hold his coffee cup in both gloved hands while waiting for Zhang Shi and Lance to walk over. Shi was never one to really discriminate based on appearance, no matter how bad the guy looked, and merely glanced over to catch the sigh. Clearly there was something going on, and what with the one's thuggish look, the other's...appearance and her own anachronism, she just hoped nobody spotted them or at least really noted them." Yeah, I guess. Just, I don't know, I don't really drink it much, just a vent or something." She sighed and sidled over to the table. Lance:"No problem."he muttered before going to stand in line. He looked around at the crowd, but wasn't really looking for anyone in particular. Technically he could 'awe' himself if he wanted to get to the front of the line quickly, but that usually meant people would remember him. ... He didn't like that. He rarely wanted to be remembered, and then he remembered ... he was in a Starbucks, dressed like should be playing pool and drinking cheap whiskey, with a Chinese woman in traditional garb and a 'burn victim.' He would be remembered anyway. But he looked at the crowd behind his shades, and decided it was probably best to appear as human as possible, so he expended the blood to look all pink and fleshy (a slow process, but he probably didn't look that unnatural: Calgary weather was cold, it would take a minute for his face to fleshy out). Spoiler Hide One point of blood lost to look 'fleshy' for the scene. He'll just stand in line until he gets to the front, Nassau. So Ragtime and Rapscallion, don't wait out on me. Adrien Adrien will stand up when Zhang arrives and sit back down with her. "So how are you ? It's so nice to meet you and I hope you're not angry with your dating service about this but I l just love Starbucks." The tone is light and flippant and no emotion shows through the burn mask. A few people in front of you leave the line once you join it, so your wait is shortened. When you get to the front, the barista scoffs, turns to his friend, whispers something, they chuckle, then he turns back to you." Uh... Can I get you something? Dude?" Lance:You have no idea. He wanted to say, he really, really wanted to say. But I'd probably find you better tasting than any **** ass-brew forged on the back's of Colombian slash and burn brush farmers. He looked him straight in the eye (from behind his shades)Probably feel less guilty about it to. This looked like the kind of guy who would just love to start something, but whatever ... he was used to it." Two light roast coffees--vent,"he shrugged,"Pick your favorite blend." Once upon a time he would actually care about the sort of ---- as how his coffee was prepared; not anymore. Instead, he just stared blank face on, and then he noticed something ... he was just like all the other dead beat, emotionless coffee drinking consumers, his left lip jerked in the slightest of smiles. It felt good to not feel odd; it felt good to not feel. It was nice to see someone as polite as that; some women might take offense at being treated so, but Shi appreciated old-fashioned courtesies." Dating service?" She had to chuckle a little herself." Not exactly that, but hey. I've eaten in worse spots." She nodded amicably, sighing a little as she sat down as well. For all that had happened, she felt she was adjusting rather well. Adrien"Yes worse spots I can understand. Well while we wait perhaps you can tell me what brings you to our neck of the woods ? I think we are going for a little walk after we get the rest of our coffee." The Nos zip up his backpack and looks over to Lance and then back to Zhang. "I expect so." Checking to make sure she had everything with her--one could never be too careful about thieves--the Toreador nodded." Well. Several reasons, actually. For one, I was hoping to scout out a new location here, in this...thick political climate, shall we say. For another, I needed to get away from home for a bit, just until things cooled down somewhat, and also...well, the last one is a bit more personal." Adrien "Well as where you come from is usually a hotbed of political trouble let's just keep that to ourselves Hamm. As for good opportunities here, I would need your requirements before I could put together a portfolio for your perusal. I would like to do the grunt for you to free you up for any shooting schedules or events you have here in Calgary. I loved your previous work in the celluloid theater, you are trendsetting. After noticing her apprehension about the walk. "I wouldn't worry you are quite safe here with Lance, I don't think anyone sane would dare tangle with him." The Loss will look in her direction and bring his gloved fingertips up to where his mouth would be. She sighed, glancing distantly out the window and idly toying with her hair, before turning her attention back to him." How very true." Hearing him, she seemed a little bit surprised." I see you've heard of me. I guess the English subs were more of a success than I thought. Huh. Thank you. In any case, that would actually be rather nice; I've got...plenty of time, just need a schedule, so let me write this down..." She took out a notepad and pen from a pocket somewhere on her person, and glanced over again at the counter at that." I can imagine,"she replied in an undertone. Adrien"Hmm pen and paper, interesting. I would say that I have interesting taste in fare when it comes to movies and food. Off the beaten path is where I tread, sad to say, but I love foreign films even with subtitles." Adrien will await Lance's arrival. Shi shrugged, with a slight smile." Call me old-fashioned. In any case, I'd have to describe myself similarly; off the beaten path indeed. Sure, that does sometimes put me in danger, but I think I can handle it." She adjusted her hat, in a moment pushing forward the notepad to him. Her English handwriting wasn't great, but it was legible, and she'd listed her name and cell phone number for reference to him (she had carbon paper in the pad as well, for a backup)." Good to hear it, anyway. If you could maybe list your name, phone number, address I could contact you at?" Shi then leaned back and rested against the seat, waiting for her drink. Adrien "Here is the cell phone I use for private concerns." Adrien will write down a phone number and an email address. [email protected]. Can." Use this email address and I will respond." The Loss will slide back the notepad. Shi bit back a laugh, wisely. Good looker, eh? Well, he almost certainly knew, and to point it out would be rude." Excellent, thanks." She stowed it." I actually had a plan for another film thought up already. It could be set here just as easily, which is part of why I came, as I said..." She paused in explaining it, once more watching the counter." Heaven, what is taking so long?" Adrien"We have sent him to the board with the big words on it. Give him a little extra time, and he should be alright, also his people skills are not up to par." The Nos will look over to the Toreador and input the information on his phone for her under a code word. They bring you your coffee, then chuckle as you walk away. You don't seem to get much attention, as the patrons range from punks with pink hair, to fashionably-dressed women and men you can only assume are actors and actresses. Still, it's easy to find your compatriots, for classic Chinese dress and a burn victim will stick out anywhere. ShiSpoiler Hide When Lance sets down the coffees, you get a sudden, strong urge to not drink it. In fact, the thought of consuming that beverage makes you queasy. Shi nodded, and smiled faintly." I can imagine. But, ah." She shrugged as well, then sighed at least when the coffee arrived. Except...那种材料怎么回事？! She lightly blew on the top, ostensibly to cool it down, and sighed. Lance:Lance shrugged as he sat down, paying the two creeps, and relaxing as he slowly sipped on his coffee, though not really enjoying it either. He really, really didn't fit in with this group (or at least he felt that way) and as such he had the look of someone who was a little bit nervous, which was only enhanced on his nice, pink rosy skin. He would have preferred blood, but what could he say? Furthermore, he didn't like this place, he didn't like the idea of being surrounded by kine and beside a waiting-breach and a target, but he also had to trust that something was up, and he wanted to get to the bottom of it. Thankfully he had missed the comment about him being about as bright as a brick wall or else this entire conversation would have been a hell of a lot shorter and pointed ... maybe with fangs. Anyway." Ok, Shi,"he mumbled as he took a sip,"How did you get my haven phone number?" Staring at his odd compare in the burn suit with a mild degree of humor and a great deal of he was sitting in an odd situation." And why did ya call me,"in a much deeper mumble,"If it's business of our business use euphemisms, 'cause we're around the 'juice boxes.'" Shi She turned the cup in her hands, sighing over it as well. Yeah, they were an odd group. She'd already figured that one out, but then again, there were a lot of unusual figures on the streets of Calgary tonight, what with the escalating atmosphere and tension. Hey, they were in the theater district--maybe if they were lucky anybody who got nosy would mistake them for a theater troupe. True, she was a little nervous as well, and just a tad bit thirsty for more "normal" sustenance, but her nerves of steel helped. Needless to say, she didn't bother to inform Lance about conversation with the Nosferatu, whom she had actually yet to identify as such, not knowing about different clans." I got a call,"she replied, leaning forward somewhat confidentially." When I called back, I got first a fellow who was...not quite all there. Then, his sister came on the phone and gave me your number. She said you could help, though not with what. I assumed,"she went on, lowering her voice, naturally,"that she meant you could help me with, one--finding someplace to stay better than a basement, and two, more importantly--telling me what I need to know to stay, er, alive." Adrien the Nosferatu will turn his gaze to the Brutal as Shi finishes her reply." Help me Obi-Wan.... I am sure Lance can be of help. Can we walk and talk folks ? I'm hungry and the smell of this chai is reminding me I haven't eaten either." Lance:Lance sighed again. He did a lot of sighing. Either this girl was telling the truth, and he was the surrogate sire to a Chinese vampire anti-political climate ('cause there was no way he'd say no), and if she wasn't ... than he had no more real answers than before." Alright." He mumbled,"Fine. I'll hook you up with some basement suite or something ... I think I can. Either that or,"pointing at the Nosferatu whilst smirking slightly,"money bags might be able to hook you up with a hotel for a couple of days, whilst I pull favors." Hopefully that would shut the guy up. Obi-Wan indeed. He'd find a place, but there was no way in hell that she was actually going to sleep in his haven. He had just met the girl." You're right Adrien,"downing what remained of the coffee (not that it was that enjoyable),"Let's scram. ... And grab something ..."he trailed off. Truth be told he wasn't even sure if she was a kindred, he was just going off his guesses, but honestly ... basement suite, new to this? What more could he say. Spoiler Hide Sorry for the delay. Been sick. Adrien"Just because I happen to sue the hospital over malpractice and get a boatload of cash. You have to get all jealous there pretty boy." Adrien will stand and look to Lance as if Shi wasn't even there. His face is masked by the opaque white medical plastic and his eyes' cool scan over Lance." Let's go Fashion plate." Adrien will take his Chai with him as they go and then dump it in a trash can outside after a few blocks. Once on the street he will wait for his companions and head off in the direction indicated by Lance. Spoiler Hide Hope you feel better. Upon leaving the coffee shop, you make your way onto semi-abandoned streets. Most others travel in packs of five or more, so being the lone threesome makes you stand out. Your odd looks, however, are not that odd here. Being in one of the cultural centers, you're standing amidst many actors, entertainers, and of course, rebels. You make your way easily enough, walking, talking, trying to guess at each other's intentions without directly mentioning anything. It goes smoothly until you come upon an area where the groups start to thin out, and look more ragged. You're accosted, then circled, with your backs to a building, the sign reading "A&J's Pawn," and under that "Hocking your goods since you went broke."" Hey man," The lead ruffian says to all three of you, and no one, "Do you support the arts?" Lance:Lance sighing, as he had unfortunately been kind of the unofficial leader of this trope of fools (himself included), decided that it would best for him to speak first. Stepping in front of the Shi, to make sure that she was not the one to be hurt in the incoming fight, which he smelled as soon as they were encircled, he spoke very firmly:"Yeah we do. What about it buck-o." Basement suite... Well, it would do. For now. She had money, she only needed someplace to stay for a few moments before she could cover her identity and get another apartment. In any case, she rolled her eyes gently at the "banter" between them, and nodded, getting up with them and tossing the coffee. Sooner or later, she had expected to run into someone, so she wasn't surprised on seeing a confrontation, sure to be a fight, occur, and found herself grateful for the cover, as she wasn't quite the strongest. An artist, after all, trained the mind and not the body. Spoiler Hide My apologies for being away. Adrien The Nos will put his back to the wall and cross his arms as scans the group. He will look down as they speak and let the Brutal lead. His fist will curl and uncurl as the thug speaks. Spoiler Hide Going on vacation, will post as I can over the next 5 days. Smirking, the leather-clad gentleman looked to his compatriots." I knew we had a couple artsy-types when I saw you fools together. What say you make your support a little more direct, or we make you watch as the ***** gets a lesson in manners." Grinning, he made a round circle with one hand, put his finger in it, then winked at Shi." Whaddya say? Do we get our support the easy way or the fun way?" Lance:Lance had had enough, rather than replying to their silly game of questions, which there was really only one answer to; he simply rolled his eyes, and began to 'Brutal Smash' them. It had after all been a long night, and he really, really needed to work off some steam. Spoiler Hide Action: Go to head boss guy if he's close enough and start to beat him into a bloody pulp. I've also got two levels of potency. I really don't have the books handy. Dice pool 8: (8d10)[10][7][5][9][2][10][9][4](56) Ten against, may they be many, work left to right. (4d10)[4][5][6][6](21) Adrien Seeing Lance charge he will step in front of the Corridor to shield her from the worst of the carnage. Catching him off-guard, you strike swiftly and true. He never sees it coming. Your hands fly, and before he manages to even gasp, he's on the ground, beaten. It doesn't look like he'll be getting up any time soon. The rest of the gang's members hands go to their pockets, no doubt grazing hidden weapons, but no one draws anything. They don't break up their circle, but you can see in their eyes that they're unsure of themselves. Such a savage beat down makes them halt. Lance:Now it was Lance's turn to look awkward. It wasn't his intention to one two him into submission, just to scare him off. Now Lance had a bigger problem; an unconscious gang leader." Umm, **** off." He said to the guys,"Or I'll kill him." Yet Lance really didn't look that convincing; he was many things, but a cold-blooded murderer, he was not. He looked to Adrien for some sort of assistance, then to Shi. Lance slowly backed up in defense of Shi and Adrien, please just take him and go. Please. But yet somehow he knew that this would not be the case. Adrien"Now look at that the bravo fell down, now who else needs a trip to nifty night land ? Perhaps there are others for you to prey on ? Tourists perhaps because we all know that armed assault carries a higher penalty than mugging." Adrien will step up to where Lance is. Nobody moved, but nobody came closer, either. Adrien remark about being caught didn't faze them, and they still had you outnumbered over 3 to 1. Still, the quickness of the assault left them steady, waiting for some clear sign on what to do. Had Lance been more aggressive, they would've run, but his lack of confidence kept them immobile. Lance:Lance, who's nakedness had worn off now, decided to continue on with the 'Brutal Crush' technique. Punching his left fist into his right hand, he began to speak;"What he's trying to say is,"pointing at Adrien"**** off, or I'll kill you all, toads." This time it sounded at least somewhat convincing, but Lance didn't really think it would work. He had the feeling that they would have to beat the living tar out of them all, but the only problem to that was, that vampires didn't bleed like humans did. This could and probably would turn into a very, very 'breach' situation. Spoiler Hide This is my manipulation+intimidate pool ... *whimpers* (2d10)[3][2](5) 10 against ... (2d10)[4][1](5) Adrien The Nos will slowly move towards the Brutal and waits for the gang to make their move. Shi:Stepping from behind the Nos, Shi sweeps an Uzi from beneath her dress, and levels it at the nearest goon." You will leave. Now." She gestures towards the downed thug, and back to the first with her weapon, "And take him with you." Narrator:The group is obviously startled by your actions, what with the savage beating, and the heavily-armed Asian princess. Shi's actions have a great effect on the group, several goons simply running away as she stepped forward, the rest looking to each other, than grabbing the leader and dragging him away. You can smell the scent of urine on the ground, as several of the thugs urinated in fear. Adrien"Nice, I see you are a big fan of John Woo. Well now that is done, I will be willing to help out, but I don't have the pull that Lance has around here. My haven has already been compromised." Adrien will look at Lance. "So I will have to relocate as well. Is there anything else you two need ? I would like to looking for Dinner." Adrien will stuff his hands in his pockets and look at the both of them. Shi Turning back to face you, she almost collapses as she shudders. "I never before have used my acting to save lives. I hope I never have to again." Turning to face Lance, Shi looks at him expectantly. "I have been feeling something since the coffee shop, something gnawing at me. Is this hunger?" Adrien "Oh you did save their lives and your acting was very convincing. If I had to strike I doubt I would have held back my strength on these scum." One Shi turns away from Adrien he will step out of both Lance's and her vision. He will call the power of obfuscation to cloak himself and start walking down the street. If Lance takes the time to engage Adrien in conversation then he will stop the cloak. Spoiler Hide Cloak (6d10)[1][2][1][1][10][10](25) Lance:Lance still very, very shell shocked that the fairly quiet Shi had produced an Uzi from out of her dress and had decided to play 'No More Mr. Nice Chinese Woman.' And it showed obviously on his face in complete and total shock. When Adrien looked at him; he shook his head and shrugged, it was true that his place had been compromised, he wouldn't hunt him down for it. Staring at Shi:"ERM probably is hunger. I don't know, when did you last eat? ... Damn you've got a gun. I mean, look, I wouldn't suggest eating here, ok? Too much folk that don't like ... Asian people here." Spoiler Hide Rerolling the 10s (2d10)[9][9](18) Adrien will walk away looking for a good spot to feed and a suitable victim. "I see." She hides the weapon among her clothes again, then turns back to Lance. "I did not mean to startle you. I did not know the proper time to inform you that I was armed before the thugs attacked us." Turning to look around, she whispers to Lance. "I last fed yesterday, but I have been unaware of the previous days before that." Lance:Lance whispered." Fine, fine, ERM, I would think you would be fine if you ate yesterday." Lance looked a little confused, but less concerned as the gun had disappeared"but I ain't exactly an elder ... so who knows what I know." Then looking around,"ERM, where did Adrien go? Whatever ... Anyway since you're new, you really should eat in places where you have the pick of the litter --a bar, club-- take 'home' some nice, stupid boy and then ERM yeah, you know. But not with an Uzi in your dress..." Lance began to walk,"Probably best if you ... sought out nourishment downtown, in the arts district, because they won't blink twice." Lance really didn't look all that confident in himself. Shi"Thank you for your assistance, Mr. Lance. You have been very helpful. Now, I must go find Alex. He is alive, I do believe. If you ever need help, do not hesitate to call. I will do the same." Bowing, she disappears down an alley. NarratorLooking around, you find yourself alone on the street. You're sure that Adrien's around somewhere, but he's cloaked again. In the middle of the sidewalk, a small distance from you, a loud beeping erupts. Like an alarm, only more urgent. There's no one or nothing discernible that is causing the beeping. Spoiler Hide Adrien, your laptop is ringing. Adrien The Nos will walk down an alley way or alcove and bring out his laptop. Open it up and check his mail. He will look up while he is working to take stock of his surroundings. On your screen is a big flashing smiley face, with the word "Hi" coming out of it's mouth in a speech bubble. There's a bubble below it intended for text. It's odd, because you've never installed anything like this. The alleyway is dark, and you're seated by a large dumpster. Fire escapes climb the surrounding buildings, but you appear to be alone. Adrien The Nos will type in the message block. What are you doing on my computer. He is typing slowly and carefully as to not damage the keys. "What, me?" It replies, as you see the smiley face try to look innocent. Apparently the thing has emotions." I'm just an innocent little program. I just happened to be in the neighborhood and thought I'd drop by. Interesting files you have here, It says, as it begins to open all your hidden, encrypted and secret files, including things you've deleted." My my, such interesting files." Adrien The Nos will simply shred the power supply out of the laptop. Then pop out the NIC card with a sudden movement crush the NIC card. Adrien will pop out the hard drive and then dump the laptop back into his backpack. "Stupid hackers." The Nos will recloak and head out of the alleyway.[Spoiler](6d10)[8][8][5][2][10][8](41)[Spoiler]He will muse to himself, The only real useful information on the laptop was his last internet search. All of the other encrypted files were dummy files there to entertain people until he could kill the power. I will have to update my anti intrusion software again. Lance:"Well if you're sure..."he said to the Tore dour,"Be careful ..."and with that she was pretty much gone. If she needed him, she would phone. Maybe she thought it would be best to find her own place. Maybe it would be safer. After all a lone girl attracted attention of the wrong kind, but so did himself and Adrien, who had now disappeared. Not liking leaving the Nosferatu alone for an extended period of time, he decided it was best to find him." Adrien, where are you?" He bellowed, not really understanding what was up." Shi left ... and ... "Lance looked confused. He was being played, and he didn't like it. Sighing he started down the street checking in allies, looking for a Nosferatu which could obfuscate. Adrien Adrien will emerge from the alleyway, grateful that he is not a Brutal. Seeing and hearing Lance he will approach and use the disembodied voice once more. "What is it Lancing, I can see she's gone." As Lance is about to speak, both of your phones start ringing. So does a payphone down the street. Streetlights near you flicker on and off, and a car alarm goes off. You're alone, but someone can be heard shouting. You can't tell if he's yelling at you, or just at the noise and lights. Adrien "Before you say anything, this isn't my work. I have an idea on what this temper tantrum is about. I need to check first." Adrien will remain cloaked and turn his cell phone once he check the number on the display." Obviously this some sort of electrical disturbance but I don't know the source yet." The number on your phone is 1-764-539-3223. You don't know the number, but after a quick second you realize it is 1-SMI-LEY-FACE. Lance:Lance, who was continuing to look obviously paranoid, took a look at his cell phone. Truthfully he didn't like this one bit, and it showed. Growing ever more impatient, he started to go look around, his eyes darting from place to place. Were they being followed? He didn't like it." How can a power grid effect cell phone signals ..."he said taking a look at the phone ringing down the street and then taking a look at the Nosferatu, or where he thought he was." It's you, isn't it,"Now Lance was going absolutely paranoid,"You, you hired her ... to lead me here, and now what, you ****ING Loss, you, **** ... why?" Darting around, he calmed himself down as quickly as he could, then finally shouting,"GOD DAMN IT." And answering the phone." Hello?"he said quietly. Since he answered the phone so quickly, he didn't even look at the number. "Why hello sir! How are you on this fine evening? I can tell from your voice that you are extremely distressed. Please relax sir. Everything is under control." With that, everything reverted to normal. Adrien's phone stopped ringing, as did the pay phone, and the lights came back on." Thank you for answering so promptly sir. I have something I must discuss with you and your associates. We are a small group of resistance fighters, and we believe we can make use of someone with your talents. We observed your fight with the thugs, and believe you and your associates would be a welcome addition to our team." Adrien Adrien will start to defend himself." Electrical disturbance as in hackers there chum." Then as the rant goes on:"Are you're serious ? I wouldn't hire a Toreador if you paid me to. You know what have a good one there Mr. Conspiracy theorist." Adrien will pause before leaving until the phone call is done. His curiosity getting the better of him. Lance:Lance froze, and then started to look around him with great interest and fear. This time he was not looking for Adrien, but rather, for whoever or whatever was watching them. If they were observing him, then they had to have some way of doing so. Clearing his throat,"Now why should we help you?"the whole paranoid Brutal thing was replaced with a look of concern. Lance turned up the volume of his cellphone so that Adrien might be able to hear this conversation,"After all we have things that we can do with our lives other than be your personal attack dogs." He motioned for Adrien to move closer, but pressed the free finger to his lip in the shush factor,"And none of us particularly enjoy fighting, particularly for nameless computer hackers." Spoiler Hide Perception plus investigation to look for how they are viewing them. If you preferred Alertness than investigation, it's the same pool: (3d10)[9][5][8](22) Any ten against, in order, (3d10)[3][8][3](14) Looking around, you barely catch a glimpse of someone on a rooftop, and as you try to see it better, you hear the camera on your phone click. They're watching you in person and through your phone, you realize." Why sir, I am certainly not nameless. I believed my name to be obvious, but I can see now it is not. My name is Smiley. I am pleased to have your acquaintance." You hear maniacal laughing, then the same voice in a different tone. "An' I'm Face. I ain't pleas'd ta meet ya, an' I don't trust you." There's more laughter, followed by the first voice talking again. "Please ignore him, sir. He's very rude, and I don't like it when he talks to people. Besides that, however, we do need to meet you." Your phone beeps, signaling a text message. "Please follow these directions, and bring your friends." Adrien The Nos will move closer to the Brutal and look around for the watchers. Once Lance's phone makes noise then he realizes they are nearby. Lance:Lance, looked confused and disoriented, but somewhat calmer now. He glanced up every once in a while to look at the people on the roof, but tried not to point or anything, though he doubted that they would do anything at this point. If they needed them, then they needed them. He remained silent listening to this conversation between men, or rather, between himself and himself, and looked slightly less worried. It was far less likely to be believed as a breach by a man who clearly had some schizophrenia or multiple personality disorder." Fine Smile and Face, ... I'll be there. Maybe they'll come too." And with that he shut off his phone." Adrien, I'm sorry I accused you ..."he sighed,"It's just been a very, very bad day." He looked much, much calmer now." And I'd ... appreciate your help, but I can't force you to do anything,"he whispered, "it's just ... damn it I thought they were done treating me like a ****ING slave-child!" And then Lance relaxed again." Do you know where Shi is?" Adrien"It's alright Lance, you pissed me off there shortly, but now I'm angrier with the brothers amusing more than you. Let's go and I have your six. I lost track of Shi when I went scouting in the immediate area." Adrien will move to behind Lance."let's do this and don't get staked. Where do they want to meet ?" Lance shows you the text, it's an office building in the center of town. You're to go to the guard at the door and ask for "SF". Adrien "Wow, this guy is either very well-connected or a complete loon. Maybe both but let's go I want to meet this guy. I'll text Shi to join us." Adrien will take out his and text the corridor about the meet and the code phrase necessary for entry "SF" Lance: "Thanks, Adrien,"he sighed,"I appreciate it." And with that he stuffed the phone into his pocket, so it wouldn't spy on his actions. He just had to be careful that they didn't talk too loudly about anything kindred related. Lance begins to follow the directions, already pretty much memorizing them, and knowing he can check his phone if he forgets the exact details You arrive downtown roughly at the same time, but from vastly different directions. You are standing in front of a massive office building, towering over the rest of the cityscape. Emblazoned near the top is the symbol "BNI", a company you know but are not entirely sure what they do. Don Century & Zhang Shi Spoiler Hide You know that they have many different divisions, and a fairly enigmatic owner. He's rarely seen in public, and has issued many odd business decisions that later proved extremely profitable. Don Century Don exits the limo straightening his suit looking it over for any damage, picking out a Frey on the lapel "Ginette is going to be most furious with this repair" he mutters to himself. He walks up with Zhang Shi extending his hand in courtesy to guide her along. Max follows Don with a serious look on his face and one shoe missing its front part. When he views Lance he greets him "Greetings sir, I am Don Century." He extends his hand in a gentleman's shake. Shi While Shi doesn't feel that she really needs him to guide her, she appreciates the thought, anyway, adjusting her own clothing that might have gotten out of place during the scuffle, if it can be called that." Well, I'm here." She smiles faintly and bows. Lance:Lance, who had walked there at a quick pace, but not in an outright run; had slowly come up to the building where they were supposed to meet. He suppressed the urge to ask Adrien when Shi was going to meet them here, because most likely he would say something backhanded to him, and with just cause, and instead settled on taking an occasional glance at Adrien from time to time. Lacking the ability to really give a straight face; he tried his best not to stare for too long. When he arrived, and he saw the limousine come, or rather, slow down as they approached; he too slowed right down, and neared towards the wall. When Don stepped up; he had grimaced and looked confused at him." Greetings sir, I am Don Century."" Hello,"he said, not taking his hand until he saw Shi exit as well. And then he genuinely smiled at Don and gave a hearty (though potency free) handshake,"Nice to meet you. My name is Lance." Obviously Don was Shi's ghoul. The girl worked quickly. He smiled towards Shi, and waved to her a quick wave." Shi ... have you gotten any messages, outside of Adrien's ... cause a man by the name of Smile, and, Face needs our services, and ... tapped into our phones to get it." Every so often he took a look at Don and Max. Shi just waved back, smiling, though to be honest this whole turn of events was starting to wear on her a little. It had only been a few nights, and this sort of thing was happening already? Then what did she have to look forward to for eternity?" Actually, yes, I have. Somebody handed me a note, here, I have it..." On the card, you see directions to a place far from here, in Calgary's industrial district, and a message to "Bring ALL your friends." You cannot recognize the handwriting or location, but the writing is fairly looping and feminine. Lance:"For all we know, this could be what Smile and Face want us to do." He sighed taking a look over the card. "So it's either we go into the building or we go down to ... wherever this is." Lance sighed. "For all we know this is a new side of Emily Face, Miss. Pac-Man or something..." Adrien The Nos will go to a nearby alleyway and once in the shadows will drop from level 2 obfuscate to level one. Once he is blended in the shadows (no roll required) he will walk back to the front of the alleyway and approach the group. "Laaaaannnccceeee, it's so good to see you, hello all I'm Adrien and you all should know me by now. Well are we going in ?"Whereas his features are muted under the burn mask and his hooded sweatshirt and trench coat cover his body language. He sounds vaguely happy and walked up briskly but non threateningly. London raises a single eyebrow at Lance. "Nancy?" Then chuckles a bit. He looks at the trenched man and can guess with reasonable accuracy his affiliation. "Greetings to you as well sir. Call me Don and I must apologize, but I have not received any knowledge of you. I am recently new to this area and have not learned all the important people of our kine just yet." His jackets give a soft beep, and he pulls out a Blackberry to do some texting real fast, then returns it to the pocket. Lance:"Laaaaannnccceeee, it's so good to see you, hello all I'm Adrien and you all should know me by now. Well are we going in ?" Lance's headshot around to see Adrien, and he gave a muted quizzical look, before turning his head. If vampires could blush he would be, but it was a rather muted embarrassment. Lance wore his sunglasses at night for a reason." Lancy?"If it looks behind sunglasses could kill the undead, he was giving one. It wasn't so much a threat as it was a statement of dissatisfaction, but coming from Lance that didn't really make much of a difference coming from a guy dressed in leather." Greetings to you as well sir. Call me Don and I must apologize, but I have not received any knowledge of you. I am recently new to this area and have not learned all the important people of our kine just yet." Lance looked shocked, apologetically shocked, and awed. He took off his sunglasses and looked at Don with a quizzical scientific curiosity. It was very, very obvious to him what he was talking about. He met three new vampires in one night? He barely had contact with kindred in months, and now he was surrounded by them. If he wasn't already in a trap; he'd assume it was one. Clearing his throat,"From what I've gathered ... I don't think you have met anyone important tonight, Blue Blood." He said with a very, very neutral voice, but a firm enough one. Since Lance was about as subtle as a brick wall; it came across as obvious what he was thinking. I see you, I recognize you as somebody who is at least my equal, and I respect you for it. It was no use angering a man who most likely owned a company the size of the one they were standing on. Though he eyed the blackberry with keenness, he said nothing. If the guy was working for Smile and Face; he'd do a better job of hiding it, he decided. It seemed obvious to him what clan he belonged to." Either we vote to go in or we go to this place,"he said passing Adrien the card." Smile and Face are one person, FYI, and is mad as a hatter. But he also cracked into our phones and a payphone, so he's connected, and this woman seems to be able to get in touch with us too. So we're hooped either way." Note for Kiss:Spoiler Hide The term blue blood, the name venture, the fact that the clan is in the Camilla and is somewhat conceded, and the fact that the clan operates by being well-connected, influential, and economically powerful is about the full extent of Lance's knowledge. Don Originally Posted by Will Wolf Clearing his throat, "From what I've gathered ... I don't think you have met anyone important tonight, Blue Blood." "Either we vote to go in or we go to this place," he said passing Adrien the card. "Smile and Face are one person, FYI, and is mad as a hatter. But he also cracked into our phones and a payphone, so he's connected, and this woman seems to be able to get in touch with us too. So we're hooped either way." Don looks up from his blackberry at the comment and gives a shot nod seemingly taking in as normal from the leather clad kindred. He takes out an HT Touch Pro from the other pocket and starts accessing menus. "Seems that this Smile fellow has not accessed my personal electronics......yet........ So this could suggest based off of the information at hand that this could be controlled by one of the Malay kine. That could prove to be difficult to predict, but there is always hidden wisdom and cryptic messages in dealing with them." After checking last minute messages he pockets his device and extends an elbow to Shi. Don looks back at Max and nods at him as well who takes a position behind Don. Don looks Max over and sighs at Max's condition of his right shoe." Well then, I hate to be late to a business meeting and this person definitely wants to meet." He beckons foreword to the entrance. Adrien "No problem Don, I'm not important around here so no harm no foul. I want a conversation with the mad little genius in there, so I'm with you." Adrien will turn to Lance but will note that Don and Shi use devices that are current. "Sorry if I misspoke, I meant to say Laaaaannnnccce. Thank you for not hauling off and belting me. Let's go..." Entering the building through revolving doors, you are greeted by a large security podium guarding the elevator, and an alert guard sitting behind the desk. Security cameras roam the lobby, and a staircase is not evident. Behind the desk, you can see the next two floors have a walkway with a banister running against the lobby, but the next floor is blocked by the vaulted ceiling. The guard looks at you as you approach, and quickly takes in the combined appearance of you. Addressing Don, the only one who does not look wildly out of their element, he glares at the rest of you." Who're you?" London shifts his look to Shi and motions to her. "It's your appointment it seems." Lance:"If I honestly thought you did that on purpose, I would have." Though it would have probably been less hauling him off and more pummeling him into the ground as he stood. Lance, not really understanding anything more than how to use a computer, did not understand why this was important. He then just followed on behind Don and Shi, to the side of Max. He guessed that Max was a ghoul by this point, and looked somewhat annoyed when Don was talking about Mascot's line (although Lance did not understand who Mascot was, it was very close to the word Maldivian), and although Max may be a ghoul -- it meant he was human. Smile and face was an idea that had not crossed his head, but Lance had simply chalked it up to too convenient if there was another kindred running around tonight. Now that he thought about it; he guessed that Don was most likely correct. Adrien"Ok Lance, I would hate it if we were crossed, I don't think I could bear it. "Adrien will fall into line behind everyone else and wait for the admittance into the building. He will cough and say the word"Password." Lance:Lance suddenly remembered the password when Adrien mentioned it." Oh right," he cleared his throat "SF." At the mention of the password, the guard freezes. His face remains completely still, and his arm extends to press a button under the desk he's in. When he presses it, you hear a hiss, then a hidden door slides back next to the elevator, revealing... An identical elevator. The guard motions towards the second elevator. Adrien The Nos will stride forward into the second elevator. He will wait for the other s to join him. Adrien will content himself to look over the panel." Computer, Bridge please" This whole time, Shi had remained silent because, frankly, she was feeling rather anxious. After all, she'd just gotten involved with this, and already there was...people who clearly wanted to meet her. It was probably not for a good cause. She had managed to restrain herself to rolling her eyes at the petty bickering, but now she had to sigh." Oh, so dramatic. I just hope all of this is really worth it, anyway." Lance:Lance was feeling rather anxious, and untrusting. He had just met three new kindred tonight and was far away from any aid. To top it all off he had left his bike a good way away from this building, and would have to send someone to go and get it. He sighed, but guessing that the trap (he assumed it was a trap) would only happen once all the kindred were stuck in the little shiny death box. Lance more or less walked in after Shi and said:"Well maybe it is, or isn't, but at least it'll be done, and we can go on for eternity." London walks with Shi as side escort. He was not summoned here so just playing along to see what's going to happen. His face is very impassive admiring Adrien's comment. Upon entering the elevator, the door slides closed. You get a sudden sinking feeling in your stomach. The elevator's going up. As you stare around, looking at the featureless interior of the elevator, you hear a crackle, then a voice comes from somewhere." Hello, and welcome to my home! I'm so glad you could all make it. I hope you don't mind the mystery." Lance:Lance said nothing, but his face looked suddenly whiter than before. He had seen this in some movie: the man's voice goes over the speakers, the elevator than plummets to its destruction, it releases fire, or it somehow destroys all the occupants whilst the man monologues. Great. This was just terrific. Quite frankly he looked on the brink of nervous laughter, but he otherwise felt calm. Death was meant to happen to them all. He otherwise said nothing; if the man could speak to them, he could probably see and hear them too. Best not to press the issue. Adrien"Oh no you need all the secrecy you can afford their friend. I understand you don't telemarketers and salesmen showing up unannounced." Adrien's voice is clear and steady as the elevator rises. The elevator rises, and rises. Looking at the button, all you can see is that it is labeled "Up". When you're certain that the elevator is somehow a trick, and you're going to rise forever, it dings and stop suddenly. Only Don and Shi manage to keep their footing, Lance, Adrien and Max being caught unawares by the sudden stop, end up sprawled on the floor. The door opens, and you're greeted by a tall, lanky fellow, with a large smile pasted on his face." Greetings! Welcome to our humble abode! Why are you three on the floor? Have you never ridden an elevator before?" Looking at the group, he smiles, and waits for you to stand and exit." Welcome, welcome, welcome. You must be the lovely Ms. Shi," He says, taking Shi's hand and kissing it quickly." And you, I can tell by the way you dress that you're Lance. You must be Adrien as well. Pity about your skin, sometimes the curse hits us all differently."" And you two! Why, you must be the man Don Century, and you his ghoul Max! Welcome! It's a pity about your toe, Max." Lance:Lance, whom was a little star struck from the sudden stop, clamored his way back to his feet, after picking up his sunglasses, and placing them back on his face. Lance got out of the elevator, shrugged, rolled his shoulders, and then relaxed. He kind of gave an inquisitive look concerning whether he had ever ridden an elevator before, not sure whether he was asking a question or making fun of him. Whatever. Lance stared on, but suddenly got a little nervous when he mentioned Shi. To his knowledge Shi was a knew embrace, how could he know who she is and what she was? Whatever. After the man said his piece, Lance cleared his throat, once he had finished speaking. "It looks like you know who we are and what we are, and I'm guessing that we are all what we are together; however, may we have your name?" It wasn't exactly elegance incarnate, slightly gurgled as Lance struggled to articulate his point without mentioning the words kindred or vampire (Max was a ghoul. Ghouls are still humans. Don't break the first tenant), but eventually he worded it out. He had the sudden feeling that he was dealing with someone with power and as such every time he spoke and every time he moved, Lance's movements and words were stilted, unconfined, and generally unnatural. Shi:Shi braced herself for any unpleasant surprises, seeing the button, and hearing the ominously video game-like voice over the speakers. It would seem, though, that some of the paranoia was unwarranted, and honestly she sighed in relief when the doors opened. His appearance was just what she would have expected from someone named "Smile" and "Face", and she did manage a slightly awkward smile and bow at his "genteel" kiss." That is correct. It is, well, a pleasure to meet you." She was nervous, too, of course; it had been just a few days, and already she was talked about? Something told her this was about more than her mortal fame in film directing. Adrien'Well at least I don't cry or sunsets or have to feed off of animals or virgins. Whatever, why are we here ? I did not like the invitation so come on let's get down to brass tacks. I really don't want to have to hole up here overnight. You know us so what's going on, what is the proposal and why us and not your ghouls ?" Adrien will cross his arms and will not shake hands. His face is covered by the burn mask so his eyes and facial muscles are hidden from view. London offers his hand in a business shake. "Good to meet you as well sir"When Adrien is speaking he raises an eyebrow in question and then returns to a passive face. Nodding to the estranged gentleman in a kind of apologetic way. "My name, good sir, is Smile. I work for Xavier, whom you shall all meet shortly. And as I'm sure you can guess, I know a great deal about all Kine in this city." Taking your hand, he gives it a firm shake. "And no, Mr. Century, no need to worry, I do not work or associate with that troublesome man you met with earlier." Sitting back down behind an extremely cluttered desk, he waves a hand in front of the computer screen, and it beeps alive. He gestures you all to several plush couches, two made of fine leather." Just a moment, Xavier is just finishing up a call." Turning to face Adrien, his eyes darken and his brow furrows." O', an' A'rain? I would'n be so clever if I was you. If I don't LE' ya, they only way out of 'er is death an' a forty-story drop." Turning back to the computer, he looks at it, then laughs." I'm such a terrible host! I forgot to ask if I can get you folks anything!" He claps his hands loudly, then grabs a list from on his desk, somehow knowing it's exact location in the mess. "We've got a whole selection of... fine reds." London chuckles to himself slightly and nods to Smile at the mention of the mortal he encountered. "Yes he was. Since you mentioned him I will assume that either you have actions pending or he works for your outfit." He reaches into his jacket pocket and pulls out his HT Pro. He starts tapping on the screen to delete files as he is talking and activates the audio recorder. Furthermore, he returns the device at the end of his conversation. "I will cease my report Mr Smile. If you have it I could really use some Château St. Pierre." He will make sure Shi sits down first and take a seat next to her. Max stands next to Don at the clutch. Lance Lance took a good look over Smile (and Face) and decided that it was best to not do or say anything which would upset the man. If Adrien wanted to run his mouth off, then he could; however, he just gave him a quick stern look rather than say anything. Unlike Don and Shi; he was somewhat more apprehensive than them, but quieter than Adrien. Crossing his arms, he just stood his ground and cleared his throat:"I see ... I suppose then you are a harpy of some sort than." He did not take any wine. If what he was saying, wasn't a blatant test, than nothing was; however, he was trying to not be rude and trying to not be obvious. Adrien "Look I don't know you but if you want to throw away the finest mind the Nosferatu possess that's up to you, Face but YOU took the time to get me here. You want me here, I'm here, so What do you want, I need hard data and facts not Machiavellian platitudes from someone I just met. I'll go with the flow right now, but you ain't winning me over with this start." Adrien will look around and ready himself for an epic level dust up. He will cross his arm and ponder his role in this assemble. "Certainly, sir! What year do you prefer? Just ask, I'm sure we have it somewhere." Reaching down, he presses a button on his phone, and mumbles something into it." A harpy? Certainly not sir. I am no different from any other one-hundred year old man. Well, except for the whole being dead and not breathing and drinking blood. Other than that, there's no difference!" He claps his hands as he exclaims this last point, then starts giggling madly. Suddenly something clears Adrien's head by millimeters. It tears a furrow through his hat, and pins his hood to the wall behind him. Suddenly stern, Face glares at you. It's a wooden stake, about an inch thick. "I say', sit down. You'll GE' what I feel like give'n ya, an' within' more." Spoiler Hide Willpower Spent! Your body obeys before you can think, immediately sitting on the floor, as you had not moved near the couches. (Unless you spend 2 Willpower to negate). Adrien "I don't think so Face. Just let me know when it's time to leave." Adrien will lean against the wall and tug the hood off the stake in the wall. The Loss will move over to the couches in case the urge to sit hits him again.*Spend 2 willpower to resist.* Lance:At first Lance's face looked very, very angry. Brutal smash angry to hear Adrien mouth off like that. If he spoke like that to the wrong people, the five of them (ghoul included) would be sent off the top of the building. Then he looked positively frightened at the sudden appearance of wooden stake. Did he actually throw that? Was it something inside his head? He didn't want to find out. Lance sighed in relief that Adrien did not get them all killed, and looked otherwise calm, as if in deep thought. Unlike the others he had yet to sit down and instead stood in the background with his arms crossed and looking generally mopish. He looked positively quizzed that the man who knew all of their names and their clans and everything else it seemed was not a harpy, which made him bite his lip a little. Otherwise, Lance looked rather serene, despite his thoughts being somewhat darker. Smile's computer beeps, and he looks at the door." He's ready for you now. And you're lucky! He's in a good mood. Oh, and please leave all electronic devices and weapons here," he says, as he pushes a cart to sit beside the door." Don't bother trying to conceal anything, for by crossing the threshold you are exposed to an EM field, which will render useless and unrecoverable any devices. Please do not try to hide anything, for you will be searched on your way out of the room, and anyone who does not comply or is found to be concealing devices will be forcibly ejected and or killed." Waving at you all, he laughs. "Thanks for the visit guys! I rarely get company, and you've all been such a treat!" With that, he stands up beside the door, a hand extended in greeting, and his other hand resting on a large, silver sword, which also came from somewhere in the mess." An' Adrien? Please try something'. It's been ages since 'Xavier LE' me kill anyone. An' I know 'e'd LE' me kill you." Adrien"Not going to happen Face." Adrien will slide his digital camera, cellphone, and his blackberry into his backpack and walk over to the cart." Here you go all my toys and gadgets, enjoy." Don"If you don't mind Mr Smile, my associate Max will hold my items and will either wait here or can go to the lobby. This does not sound like the kind of meeting that he needs to be involved in." He nods to Max who takes several items from Don. Don hands him a Blackberry, HT Pro, a silver pen, watch and his wallet." That should take care of my electronic items now". At the last part of Smiles ejected comment Don rolls his eyes in obvious boredom. This threatening business is getting a bit out of hand for him. As he moves pat to enter he notices the sword and Smiles comment to Adrien. He mouths "wow" to himself. Lance:Lance on the other hand had no toys or gadgets beyond his cellphone, which he just handed over unconditionally and wordlessly. He looked noticeably more relaxed now that Adrien and Smile were not in the same room, and he did a double take as he takes on the sword, but Lance was otherwise quiet. Perhaps he would invest in some nice, good wooden stakes. Now this meant that the four of them would probably all die, what with facing another elder, weaponless, and all, but that's ok. With any luck the deaths would be swift and painless. Lance took a look over his companions: Don, Adrien, and Shi, plus himself. Well the four of them certainly made quite the little group. Not the group he thought he would die with. He sighed. Lance walked through to the other side of the doorway. Spoiler Hide I don't have access to my character sheet write up. If I had any other 'contraband' items then he handed those over as well. As you step through the door, you feel a slight tingle. No doubt the EM field Smile was talking about. Inside the cavernous office, there is a massive oaken desk near the back of the room, the top hand-carved from a single, ancient tree. On the left of the room is a bank of monitors, rapidly switching through many different cameras, and on the right is a gigantic bay window, giving you an impressive view of the surrounding area, and showing you that this is the tallest building around. By far. Nearer to you sits a couch, a massive six-foot-tall television, and two doors which are presently closed. Beside the door is a mat with a sign above it saying "Please take off your shoes! Thanks!" When you do take off your shoes, the lush carpeting beneath your feet makes it feel as though you are walking on pristine grass. Behind the desk sits a powerfully built man of about forty, with salt and pepper hair cut close. He is wearing a black suit made of the finest silk, tailored perfectly, one Don can tell would cost more than a small family car. He has a black neck-tie embroidered with a single golden X, and a white shirt. Furthermore, he wears gold and platinum cuff-links set with diamonds, and is seated in a massive chair made of extremely fine leather. Opposite his desk are four leather chairs, each having a basket with a name card on it. A fifth one is sitting inside the door to the right, on which you can make out the name "Max". The man glares at you, and you can feel yourself wilting beneath his gaze. He gestures towards the sign, then for you to come in and at the chairs opposite. His entire being radiates power, and his office reeks of money and status. (I'm assuming you all do as you're told and take of your shoes and sit. Inside each of the baskets is a blackberry, a disposable camera, a cheap cellphone, a wallet with $500 cash, a small black spherical object, a watch, a ring, and a 9mm Glock pistol, with two rounds of ammunition.)" Welcome, welcome. It gives me great pleasure to have you all here. You are not the brightest, strongest, wealthiest, or most talented," He says, looking first at Adrien, then Lance, then Don, then Shi, "But you are the most ignorant. And that, my friends, is what I seek." Standing from his desk, he begins to pace in front of the window, his back to you." For you see, I am in a bit of a predicament. My influence here is being questioned, my right to rule is being put under scrutiny. I do not like this. My will and strength is beyond your capacities for understanding, but I cannot make full use of it. To do so, would invite the world down upon our little freak show, something I can never do. So, I first turned to my loyal servants. They proved to either be corrupt, incompetent, or unwilling to do what they must to root out the evil at the core of this dastardly plot to usurp my rightful power. Then I turned to the local mercenaries, those whose bonds are brought only by money. Even they failed, for they lacked the courage to see the truth. And the truth, my friends, is that I am the only thing standing between us and ruin. Were it not that I was here, in this time, that cursed man would have shone the light on our entire existence. He would have thrown open the shutters, and brought death to us all. His reach is far, though, his influence vast. He is like a child, believing kin and kine can coexist." He spat, then looked back at you." You must find him, and you must destroy him. You cannot hope to combat him on your own. Once you locate him, tell me where he is and how to get there, and I shall exterminate him and his lot like the vermin they are." Adrien Adrien will pause to remove his shoes and take a seat four down from where Prince is sitting." Does this walking endangerment have a name ? What do we call you ?" Adrien will look over the items and close his bag. "You may call me Xavier, and I do believe he is calling himself Winston these days. Now, any other questions?" Lance Lance followed suit, removing his shoes, and sitting down. He looked somewhat nervous, but as soon as Adrien spoke; relieved. Thankfully the Nos had decided to not blow his lid off. Lance cleared his throat." Erm, what's Winston's clan? General appearance ... last recorded location and previous vocation, if any, within kindred society?" Don Also taking off his shoes and finding his seat he sits quietly showing to be impassive while listening. "Winston is tall man, but I do not know how he will present himself. That filthy degenerate will be hiding somewhere with his brood and lackeys. Look in the art studios, the bars, anywhere someone addicted to vice would be found." Opening a drawer, he pulls out a file. "This is what we know of him." Inside the file are a few photos, showing a tall man with the same face, in a variety of costumes. In one, he has short black hair and is wearing all leather, in another, he has long blond hair and is garbed in designer clothes. Also listed are his known aliases, "Johnathan Beach" and "Staff H. King"." He hides well. And he is much older than he looks. We've attempted to trace his finances before, but they are stored in a variety of banks long associated with utter impenetrability and complete secrecy. He was a famous artist, a poet, a writer, and a member of nobility in old England. He has money. Probably even more than I can access." Adrien The Loss's disassociated attitude lightens a bit. Adrien will lean forward to look over the photos." So he could be any Clan or is masquerading as several clans ? He's an annoyance to your regime, and you want our ignorant assistance in this endeavor. His weakness is vice, and he needs to be silenced. Do I have everything correct ?" Adrien will lean backwards and cross his arms again. Lance:Lance nods his head at the information and then looks over at his compatriots. London sits back starting to look the annoyed part that he is feeling. Something is just not right with all of this bullying tactics." So Mr Xavier, what does it exactly do you think some band of unknown kine can find this all-powerful mortal or kine can find much less do anything about this? There seems to be very little of motivation to do this on my part, unless you count the strong-arm and plan to stick to that." He opens his arms wide. "What does each of us get out of this? I hate doing investing without knowing the risk, which I'm pretty sure what that consists, versus the payout." He looks over to Adrien and smiles. "You won't find him. He'll find you. That black object in the bag is a PPS tracker. PPS stands for Precise Positioning System. It is accurate to within one meter. When you meet him, all you need to do is send the signal and we will log your location. And as for why..." He opens a case, and pulls out a fine cigar. He lights it, then takes few puffs." You all want something. You, Mr. Century, want to find the group sabotaging your company's property. And, I can also rid you of that troublesome man you met. Adrien, you desire money and knowledge. Smile has more access than you can dream of, and he can teach you what he knows. Lance, you seek understanding of your unlike, and a stable environment. I can give you both. And Shi, you seek Alex. I know where he is. He is alive, do not doubt it. For how long depends on you." Laughing, he gestures to the window. "Of course, there's also the fact that I could end you all right now, or for as long as you remain in this city. And I'm not going to let you leave. So, do it for whatever reason you wish. Or for no reason at all. Just do it." Adrien "Thanks Xavier, I'll take the carrot instead of the stick. Knowledge and money work for me, I assist with the tagging." Adrien will lean back and look over the rest of the group with his hands in a staple formation. Lance:Lance looked somewhat embarrassed at accurately being described his motivation for life. It wasn't something that he spoke about often, in fact he had never spoken about it at all. ... Lance looked nervous; somewhat apprehensive and his eyes (behind his sunglasses started to look around for somebody who was searching his head; he had heard that some clans could literally look into your head and bring out information. Who did it?). Whatever the case; he simply nodded his head, he would do what was asked; he had no desire to f--- with the prince. Adrien The Loss will register the Brutal's discomfort but will not make any snide remarks." So I guess we're done and we can go now ?" "If you're finished with the insipid questions, then yes. Please stand by the door in single file, two rows, male and female. You'll be searched, and released. Carry your basket and shoes please."((IOC: If you did try to hide anything, post in the IOC what it was and where you hid it.)) You are released, although he doesn't return any of the items he confiscated, and Smile makes sure you properly secret away all of your new items. He collects the baskets, humming to himself an Easter tune, then ushers you into the elevator and down. The guard at the bottom snaps awake when the door opens, but remains utterly motionless. Outside, the night is still fairly young, and you are set adrift, with no clear path to follow. Adrien"Well, now where ? Can I get a lift back to my place unless you guys have any plans ?" The Nos will look around and stuff his hands into his pockets. Lance:Lance looked far more relieved, and sighed, breathing heavily and irregularly, as he tried to recollect his nerve. He took a look over his companions, what they were, and what the heck they had gotten their selves into. On the one hand this seemed like such a mundane thing, going to find and get the guy out of the prince's hair, but on the other hand; what were they to go around and do this?" Well, now where ? Can I get a lift back to my place unless you guys have any plans ?" "Well I need to get my bike, but then I can take you home,"he sighed in relief. He paused." You do know he could have really killed you, you know?" Adrien"A couple of blocks away would be nice thanks Lance. I know he would have destroyed me, but I'm already dead what more can he do to me ? I'm not to submit meekly to harassment or debasement. Furthermore, I am going to let people know where I stand and then move forward from there. Furthermore, I'll walk with you to your man, Later Shi and Don, nice ride by the way." Adrien will start walking with Lance when he goes. London walks out with everyone looking annoyed. When they reach the area they are all talking at he fishes in his pocket for the items "Smile" gave them and gives it a scornful look." What a waste of time. You have got to be kidding me on this pompous camp;^%(^% that wants to rule the universe. Why in the ^$#^& amp;* does he keep our personal electronics? Now I have to get new one and flash them. What an *%@^&)_*." Looking around he notices Max is not out here "great, keep him too why don't you camp;%)@$, yeah that makes a lot of sense." He will go to the limo and take it to the hotel. You all manage to safely return to your quarters, and spend a rather uneventful day in fitful sleep. An image of Xavier laughing and a puppet smiling at you haunt your dreams, and the image of a tall man nodding serenely at you banishes them shortly before you wake. Shi won't return your calls, sending Lance a message saying simply, "I must find Alex." Your small, weak band has become smaller and weaker. With unknown threats throughout the city, you feel small, but the image of the nodding man comes back, and you feel blessed with renewed hope.((IOC: You all gain enough experience for one ability increase (I don't have my books, so I don't know how much that is). Spend it however you wish.)) Lance:((IOC: Sorry to sort of god mod, but I'm going to say that Lance got your number/you got his Pasteur.)) Lance just sighed as Adrien explained his actions: I'm dead, so I can do whatever I want. He shook his head, but didn't see the point in arguing with him about what he did with his own life; but he didn't want to get himself killed either, and he had the suspicion that Adrien was going to get them all very, very dead." Alright." He said to Adrien,"Bye Don, bye Shi." And with that he turned and left, it was probably best to not bother the man when he was in the fits of anger." See you tomorrow. I'll find a good place to meet up." And then he pretty much moved on with silence Adrien. If he said anything he replied, but it was very obvious that he didn't really want to talk. He took him back to where he assumed he was supposed to drop off Adrien, and then went and did his 'before sunrise' routine at his haven.-----------Lance woke up and noticed the text, sighed, and almost broke the table that was near him as his fist came down. He pretty much pounded in his response to Shi: 'Stay safe.' Very annoyed he got up and sent text messages to Adrien and Don to meet him at 'The Cue Tip' pool hall, with an address, (one of the few places where neither Adrien, Lance, nor Don would stand out), with his new-found gadgets an innocuous backpack and several sheets of paper and pencils. Lance was not a dumb man, and he kind of figured that the gadgets and other stuff would be bugged, and that maybe there might be a guy here who might be listening into their conversation through the old-fashioned method. That being said it was a double gambit, he could not, not use the bugged stuff, because than the prince would be very, very suspicious. So he placed the stuff in the backpack and placed the paper in a different pouch. Lance arrived there thirty minutes earlier than the others. He had left his bike about ten minutes away walking distance, in a location he knew it would be safe, not that they were in a bad neighborhood either. And started a round of pool with some shark who was looking for a game, betting twenty bucks that he'd win in the half hour. Lance, who was not a bad pool player, agreed and found his --- severally whooped ten minutes before the meeting place. Afterward Lance made himself look nice and fleshy in order to order himself a drink from the bar, which he just sort of sat there and waited at. Adrien The Nos will awaken in his four-poster bed and gets up with after the sun has set. He will turn on four television sets to their respective news channels and head over to get dressed. He likes to keep abreast of international and local news, as he dresses. The Nos power up his mainframe and checks his website and email for any daily updates or requests. Once dressed he will call to report that his blackberry was lost and will pause to reach into a bin to grab another one. Once the new blackberry is charged, he will pocket into his Calgary Roughriders red hoodie with black shirt. He will cinch up his belt on his blue jeans and slide on a biker boots. Adrien will call up a cab for ride to the bar location. He will get out about four blocks away and go into an alleyway to obfuscate himself. Once this is done he will head to the bar and go in with a customer. When Lance is by himself the voice will ring out. "I'm here." The bar is respectable, but out of the way. The interior is dimly lit, but for clandestine meetings, that's best. It's relatively empty, a few people playing pool, one group of four businessmen at a table, and two at the bar, one female. The bartender is a large, muscular man with piercing blue eyes. His head is shaved, and tattooed with flames. More tattoos cover his arms, and he stares at Lance as soon as he walks in. When Adrien enters, the bartender comes over to Lance. "Tell your friend to knock that **** off in my bar. I'd be talking to him, but then everyone else would know something's up. Tell him to go to the bathroom and clean himself up. If he tries that again, I'll break his legs." The man is obviously mortal, but he can see Adrien through his Obfuscate. You either got really lucky with your choice of venue, or something is out to get you. Lance Lance looked suddenly very, very pale. It was his bodies' natural reflex to suddenly look pale when he was told that a member of his 'coterie' was going to have his kneecaps broken in. He finished off the drink he had, swiveled on the bar stool, and then pretty much looked like he was about to get sick. Of course, he also brought with him the electronics, because as much as he would prefer to not keep the stuff, he was fairly certain the prince would not appreciate loosing his 'gifts'. And then hustled towards the bathroom taking Adrien with him (IOC: Not sure whether you obfuscated; else wise he'll go towards where the bar tender motioned you were/where Lance thought you were) mumbling'Adrien, bathroom ... Adrien bathroom ... Adrien bathroom ...'and then walk into there and wait until he could see him. It was obvious that Lance was far more afraid than angry. After he took a few deep breaths (somewhat irregular, but it helped him to calm down) he'll give you a look and say:'The barkeep can see you.' Adrien The Nos will cloak and appear where Lance is expecting. "Yeah, I noticed that. What do you want ?" The Nos will look the same as he did the night previous with burn mask, hoodie and jeans. Lance would notice that the hoodie and jeans are new." I simply adore all the quiet meetings we seem to have." The Nos will turn and head back out to the table. He does not pay the barkeep any attention at all. Lance Lance suddenly looked rather annoyed and sullen again." Fine, just don't use disciplines." He said whilst Adrien was still inside the bathroom, and went back towards the table where Adrien was now standing at. He needed to keep a good eye on him; the two of them certainly couldn't feed here, and he had the startling suspicion that the barkeep knew far more than he should be allowed to, but Lance wasn't really in the mood to go around ratting on people who looked far more concerned with holding a steady job than with blackmailing princes and kindred." You want something to drink, Adrien?" London spends the next day getting replacement items and memory flashing. He sets up a signal with his company to disable the old units. Max gets new shoes. Unless someone calls Don the day is used up running errands and Don cooling off from the encounter from Smile.[IOC: Yeah, Will Wolf that is safe to assume we all exchanged numbers] Don:You manage to disable the phones, but when you describe the PPS system to a technician, they inform you that it's simply not possible to do. They inform you that whoever owned the device would instantly know it was disabled, it would be very expensive to do, and it would violate several National Security measures, especially if it is sent across borders, as would be necessary. What you're holding in your hand is a very rare, very expensive and very illegal piece of technology. Either Xavier has connections that far outreach your own, or he's breaking many, many international laws. Either way, going against his wishes with the device would get you so deep in trouble your company would burn you. Lance:As you and Adrien sit at a table, a man comes into the bar, looking like an addict who's been far too long without a hit. He goes straight to the bar, and mentions for the bartender to come over. He talks to the bartender, for a while, then the bartender gestures in your direction. Lance:Lance, before Adrien could respond/not knowing that he had responded, quietly got up and said:"Be right back." He then turning his head to see if he was actually being beckoned, quietly walked over there. His face still looked somewhat fleshy." Yeah? What you want?" It wasn't rude, but had the edge of confusion and panic that was often in a young vampire's voice. All the while he was quietly eyeing the 'drug addict' looking man with a bit of worry. Either this man wanted some coke or--yeah that was probably it. Adrien"Once again you have called me, what did you...." Adrien will let the question hang as he sees the man at the bar."Oh, come on... What next ?" "The nice man said you had coke for me. He said "Find the rebel and the invisible man." He said you'd give me what I wanted if I gave you his money." He opens his hand, revealing several hundred-dollar bills. Lance:Lance looked suddenly afraid on the notion of the 'invisible man' he was certain that the sheriff was going to burst through the door and take the two of them away for breaking the Masquerade, but he suddenly settled down." Oh yeah, sure, sure." He shifted his weight a little,"Umm ... let's just not do this deal with so much, ERM, people around." Spoiler Hide Perception+Streetwise to see if he means coke or vitae, because he's not certain that the bartender is not sending him over here to bother/intimidate Lance like, 'I know what you are ... here's me rubbing your face in it, haha.' Rolls: (4d10)[5][10][10][5](30) In case of tens, go left to right: (4d10)[9][9][7][1](26) Four successes The man means coke, but you catch the hint of something hidden within him. He's not here entirely of his own free will, it seems. Lance:Lance takes him to the bathroom and sells him some coke. It's a quick transaction, he's not entirely happy, but he doesn't see the point in be lingering on it (if the man said [invisible man] he was far more likely to be knocked upside the head than taken seriously). And so does. It's not a lot of coke, because Lance keeps it around mostly for show, but it should get him done.Afterwards he says,"now get lost"and then leaves the bathroom to return his drink, all the while staring at the bartender. What was he? Some kind of vampire seeing witch? But he wasn't really in the mood to listen to him much longer. When he returns to Adrien, he says,"sorry, got distracted ... the bartender, he's ..."and now in a very low whisper, tossing his head to see him,"definitely not human." Spoiler Hide How much cash he got back from the transaction; he's not looking to milk him, just get him out of the w: streetwise+manipulation (3d10)[5][2][1](8) Tens, work left to right: (3d10)[4][1][6](11) Adrien The Nos will look away and then look back when Lance returns, his face impassive behind the mask." Look is there something you need ? I don't plan to come back here as obviously I am not wanted here." Lance:Lance kind of looked at him, slightly incredulously,"Well we can start to see if we can try and find the guy that he wants us to find." Lance said with a slight edge to his voice; it wasn't like he was doing this sort of stuff for pleasure. Adrien"Ok I'd say let's check some bars that are having poetry readings and jazz recitals ? That sound about right to you ?" Adrien will drum his fingers on the table to get his mood across. Lance:Lance nods his head. "Yes, but I think we need to wait for Don. He's late, but I sent him a message. ... Shi's not coming--I think she skipped town." He said it with some regret. Other than that he remained silent and hoped that Adrien could keep his cool long enough for Don to come. Adrien"Ok so we wait." Adrien will make the pretense of stretching and settling down. He will observe the bartender from his vantage point." So do we have Wi-Fi here ?" You're pretty sure you lost money on that deal, but you managed to score two of the hundred dollar bills. One of them has a doodle of a smiley face over the portrait, and the other has a large W written across the face. The bartender ignores you, and goes back to his bar tenderly duties. You didn't see any signs posted, but you can't imagine a place like this not having Wi-Fi, although you might have to pay for access. Lance:It took Lance a little while to understand the significance of the smile-y face and the W. Winston and Smiley Face. It seemed obvious, but the two of them were supposed to be working against each other; so it must just be coincidence. He didn't even see the point with making a note about it. And so Lance sits and waits for Don to show up.((IOC: Newton, where are you?)) Don After getting his devices finally all squared away he starts looking through his messages and notices the text from Lance. He glances at his watch VRS the time stamp and rolls his eyes in frustration. Don then text replies with: Took too much time to set up my replacement accounts. If you are still there I can be on my way in a few. He will instruct Max to get a rental car and prepare to go out. Lance:When his phone beeped; he took a look at it and said to Adrien:"It's Don." He replied, 'we're here. Shi's gone. Don't break rule number 1.' He wished that he could reply with more clarity, but he didn't have a cell phone that wasn't probably tapped by the prince. He turned to Adrien,"He'll be here shortly." And snapped shut the phone and waited; he decided it was best to not tell anyone about anything. This place was obviously watched by someone ... he didn't want to get into the details with the creepy bartender here. "Oh well that's good, how are you doing then ?" Adrien will look around and mental tab each person's style of dress and possible fortunes. Lance"Ahh, been better. It's not exactly a playground out there," he motioned towards the door,"Dog eat dog. Canis cane edit." And Lance sighed.((IOC: The Latin means. Dog-eat-dog.)) Adrien"I know it's been a strange week for me already." The Nos will go back to people watching looking for oddities among the patrons. Lance:Lance pretty much does the same, except he occasionally checks his cell phone to see if Don comes. DonAs they arrive in Don informed Max to stay in the car and watch the front. He walks up to the front entrance looking at the signs for the pool hall. Straightening his tie in the windows reflection and not caring about being over-dressed. Businessmen make deals all the time here. He puts both his phones on vibrate and walks in. Don notices Lance and takes a set at the table. "Nice place here, decent atmosphere." he says while nodding his head in approval. "So, anyone have some type of idea on what to do? I have not done anything except replace items and accounts since 'his magi sty' stole our stuff." He is obviously still very annoyed about how they were treated by Smile. Adrien"I keep a lot of spares as I'm kinda rough on my devices." A new laptop sits on his back, and he is not holding any electronics." So We check out rumors or clubs and canvas for this guy ?" Lance:Lance nodded when Don came through the door and looked somewhat more relieved; he was beginning to worry something had happened to him. Lance just kind of shrugged; he honestly had no idea what to do, and he was fairly certain that it wouldn't be easy--it's never easy. He lowered his voice somewhat and just said:"I don't know. I think they're going to be watching us ... so I guess we should go and check something out." He shrugged, "The bartender there is ... linked to our kind somehow, but I don't know how, and I think we should do the rest of this conversation elsewhere ..." Adrien"Now we're talking something to do." Adrien will wait for the others and then follow them out silently vowing to himself to never visit this establishment again. Don"If you guys don't have a ride I have Max outside that we all can travel together." As he stands he straightens his coat and looks for any obvious staining from the set and watches the crowd for any too interested onlookers. Adrien"I know I don't have a ride Don, I'm with you. What about you Lance ?" Adrien will heft up his backpack and look to Lance for his answer. Lance:Lance nods his head. "My bike's parked outback. I'll follow you guys on it. Ok?"

Deviance - VtM|rating:3.0

Vampire the Requiem ~ Help Me, I'm Hungry (OPEN AND ACCEPTING!)

WARNING! SMUT FRIENDLY! WARNING! PS, you're going to want to have a keyboard for this ... Welcome to Seattle. Largest city in the pacific northwest, birthplace of Starbucks and Nirvana, home of Amazon and the Space Needle. Humans flock to her streets. They come seeking well-paying tech jobs, tourist hot-spots, international ports of call, and little pieces of entombed history in her streets. Apartment buildings and suburbs and Bohemian neighborhoods swell with all walks of kine ... and so too then, must it swell with the Kindred. That has always been the way of things, always been the truth; The Blood calls, the Kindred listen. Seattle, however, is not like other cities, ripe and rotting with old blood. Elders and their antiquated hierarchy. Taken by the Parthian Movement from the hands of the Invictus, the First Estate. They have enacted a system of government inspired by the humans we hunt, a democratic means of distributing property and territory. In exchange for a safe place to sleep, and hunt, all vampires in the new Parthian commonwealth of Seattle are expected to not only uphold the traditions, and the law, but enforce it. Of course, this is easier said than done, and while the leader of this faction of the Parthians has incredible resources, and a Imogen of equally wealthy individuals, he has only a hundred or so loyal neonates at his command, while the number of new arrivals grows daily. This isn't even mentioning the ... other presences in Seattle. I digress, you've arrived at a truly marvelous time, a time of revolution, when young vampires live free of the yolk of living, horrible bits of history, but also a time of fear; The Parthians have only just taken control, and parts of Seattle still go patrolled. Werewolves, Mages, and stranger things have been reported around the city, though they seem to share the kindred's interest in a wide berth. So again, welcome to Seattle; Meet the Prince, Mind the Traditions, and stay the fuck out of trouble you monster. The Traditions The Masquerade - Thou shalt not reveal thy true nature to those not of the Blood. Kindred survival depends on one thing above all else; the Masquerade. The century long lies that has been woven, convincing the mortal world that vampires are things of fictions, which hiss, and draw their capes, and sparkle. Any act which threatens the Masquerade shall be grounds for the Blood Hunt. The Progeny - Thou shalt pass the Blood with grave consideration, and on both your heads be it. The Blood is a curse, of this there is no doubt. To pass on the Blood is to pass on damnation, forever hungry, forever cold, forever in the dark. Those who do surmount their natural impulses and sire a child shall do so with the understanding that their crimes shall be considered as one. The Amaranth - Thou shalt not bring unholy end to those who share the Blood. The Blood is damnation, a punishment, a state of suffering on the edge of death, a reminder to the world that there is still that which lies beyond. To undo the will of the divine, and end the endless, is the greatest of crimes, and grounds for the Blood Hunt. Fire shall consume those who consume their brethren. Spoiler: A Few Notes About The Kindred 1) The average vampire population is 1 kindred to 50,000 humans. Creating progeny without permission from a Prince will earn a vampire final death, but it goes beyond that. Vampires feel a deep aversion to passing on their curse, and even a character with just 1 humanity will suffer serious, existential doubts when considering the act. 2) Vampires are predators, no two ways about it. The embrace kills that which is human about them, and what is left is a territorial beast that thirsts for blood, wearing the memories of a life now gone. For the kindred, seeing one of their own is a visceral experience, animal and spiritual at the same time. Simultaneously a reminder of a cursed eternity, and a deep, dire threat to singular supremacy in an area, over its food supply. Distrust, fear, aggravation, irritation, these are the emotions that vampires feel toward one another. Not love. Not friendship. Not their eponymous kinship. Only those who follow the paths of redemption claim to truly feel any love for anything anymore. 3) Kindred Vitae is delicious, intoxicating, and extremely addictive even to other vampires. Described as somewhere between sweet, spicy and savory, it is the taste of stolen life, of youth and power and vitality. It is a lie. A single taste is enough to give someone a craving that rears its head in the company of kindred. Three tastes of a single vampire's blood will enact the Cingulum, and form a blood bond, enslaving the drinker in all senses to the Sire. 4) Diabetic is the act of strengthening oneself through the absolute consumption of another vampire's soul. This is a heinous act, even among the most evil of vampires, and a direct threat to the supremacy of the elders. The act itself is rather simple, draw all the blood from another kindred's body by force, and just keep on sucking. The attacker draws out the actor, the essence of a vampire's soul and devours it, with some effort, in order to absorb their power. If the victim had a higher blood potency than the attacker, a single dot of blood potency may be gained. Likewise, the attacked may 'steal' a single dot of discipline from the victim, up to a max of the victim's level. The attacker's humanity immediately drops by one, earning a derangement of your choice. Your aura is also forever streaked with black marks, marking you to anyone able to see such things. For those who seek only power, the draw of such an act can be worth the consequences. 5) Blood Potency is an important concept in the game. It determines how much of your stored vitae you can use in a round, and what kind of beings you can feed from. Every player starts with a free dot in Blood Potency. Normally you would be able to purchase more with experience, but we're not doling out experience, so ... do with that what you will. It's not likely to have a big effect on the game. Character Guidelines Note: I can't emphasize this enough, there will be no rolling. We're using the book, the MTR system to provide limitations, struggle, something to stand in our way and make us stir up those creative juices. If you KNOW your character can't match another character's strength, can't just wander out into a gun fight like wolverine would, it spices things up a little. It's also for inspiration, and reference. Think of it like a profile ... mixed with a few dozen minutes of homework. Step 1 ~ Concept ~ Jot down a general idea that describes your character, just something to remind you what you're going for. Slutty savant? Killer ginger? Bloodstained neckerchief? Have fun with us. Step 2 ~ Attributes ~ You have three kinds of attribute categories; Physical, Mental, and Social, each with three attributes. All of these attributes start at 1 dot for free, representing the minimum level required to be a functional person. Order the attribute categories primary, secondary, and tertiary. Your primary attribute group gets 5 dots to distribute, your secondary gets 4, and your tertiary gets 3. Spoiler: Attributes and descriptions from White wolf Fan Wiki Physical attributes: Strength - Physical Power. Directly contributes to a character's Speed trait. Dexterity - Physical Finesse. Directly contributes to a character's Speed trait, and affects a character's Defense trait. Stamina - Physical Resistance. Directly contributes to a character's Health trait. Social attributes: Presence - Social Power. Manipulation - Social Finesse. Composure - Social Resistance; the ability to stay focused and calm under emotional pressure, and to resist emotional manipulation. Directly contributes to a character's Willpower trait, and used with Wits for perception related tasks. Mental attributes: Intelligence - Mental Power. Wits - Mental Finesse. Used with Composure for perception related tasks, and affects a character's Defense trait. Resolve - Mental Resistance; a character's strength of will and intellectual focus. Directly contributes to a character's Willpower trait. Step 3 ~ Skills ~ LINK ~ Like your attributes, your skills are separated into categories. We're going to differ from the system here, and instead of distributing dots, you're just picking ones you're good with. In this case, order your categories like before, but this time pick 4 from your primary list, 3 from your secondary, and 2 from your tertiary. Step 4 ~ Skill Specialties ~ This part is a little bit more specific. Pick three of the skills you selected. Skill specialties are circumstances under which you're not great, but the best. For example, if you chose Firearms, is your character particularly good with pistols? If you chose Expression, perhaps you're a magnificent painter, more-so than a sculptor. Step 5 ~ VAMPIRIZE! Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Clan ~ LINK! ~ Choose a Clan. If you like something from the expanded content found in the reference material (1st edition only), then feel free to run it by me. Your Clan will determine your starting disciplines, your weakness, and your favored attribute, in which you get an additional dot. Check the reference material for the required information. Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Covenant ~ Choose your Covenant, same as above. Remember, while your Clan is your blood, your Covenant will determine the kind of circles you hang around in, the kind of things you strive for, the methods you use. Because we're cutting points from a few places, I'm going to allow people to access their Covenant's benefits without any status points, but if your character transgresses against their organization, or its ideals, there will be consequences. Vampires who switch loyalties are viewed with justified mistrust. Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Blood Potency ~ All characters start with a single dot of Blood Potency, as mentioned above. If you choose to increase this above one, you'll need to provide an adequate background reason for being more powerful than other new vampires. For more information, see the spoiler at the top of the post. Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Humanity ~ Your character's starting humanity, the characteristic that represents their will to resist the Beast within, is as follows: Spoiler: The Humanity Scale and Threshold Sins 10 - Selfish thoughts, like hurting someone's feelings 9 - Minor selfish acts, anything that doesn't cause direct harm or disadvantage to another individual (cheating on taxes) 8 - Injury to another, accidental or otherwise. 7 - Petty theft 6 - Grand theft 5 - Intentional mass-property damage 4 - Crimes of passion (manslaughter or less) 3 - Planned murder 2 - Casual or callous crimes like torture or serial murder 1 - Utter heinousness (Combination rape, torture, murder, or genocide) Remember, low humanity characters are, quite literally, less human in appearance and demeanor. The lower their humanity, the less they engage in subtle bodily cues like blinking, moving their features, shifting their weight now and again. The harder they find it to stay away during the day, to care about social niceties and the company of others. Humans find these characters unnerving to be around, and may lash out at the lowest on the scale, ironically. Dropping a point of humanity below 4 will earn you a derangement for each step down to 0, at which point your character will become an NPC. Regaining humanity is a story aspect, and a character must show a serious effort to change their behavior to regain points ... which is tough without a DM, so I leave it to you. Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Sgt;Virtues and Vices ~ This one is a little harder, because first edition uses free-form Virtues and Vices. In other words, you are allowed to make up your own, following guidelines provided below. So yeah ... go read. Virtue and Vice information Samples of Virtues and Vices Step 6 ~ Calculate Derivatives! ~ Okay, this sounds dorky, the game calls them "advantages," things like your health, speed, defense. Defense is equal to the lower of dexterity, or wits. Size is 5 unless you've taken a merit/flaw to adjust it. Health is size + stamina, Initiative is Dexterity + Composure. Speed is equal to Dexterity + Strength, and each dot represents 5 yards you can travel in 6 seconds. Finally, starting willpower is equal to Resolve + Composure. Step 7 ~ DOTS! ~ So now, to compensate for the corners you had to cut, you get some dots to spend, 10 of them in fact. Unlike the regular game, these dots are on a 1 to 1 basis, except for Merits, which you can also purchase for the listed dot cost, though they will mostly just be for flavor and definition. Disciplines, attributes, willpower, you can even trade one for another skill. Keep in mind, you have to explain how your character went from a humdrum human to this master whatever, but I trust you all Universal Merits Vampire Specific Merits Game Mechanics Information Spoiler: because it's just a bunch numbers for the dice-free specific mechanics HOW TO PLAY! So, to ease the ardor of trying to roll against one another, and to give a little bit of a tabletop feel, we're going to be using attributes and advantages alone, with context provided by your other skills. So like, simple tasks, you can just DO if you have the appropriate skill. A little Mary-suish, but I'm hoping you'll all police yourself. For conflicts, since vampires aren't terribly fond of one another, we're going to use a fast and dirty method; Pick two stats that best represent your attack. Melee attacks would have to use a physical stat, but the second could be mental to represent training if you've taken the brawl or weapon skill, or social to represent trickery with the stealth or larceny skills. The defender does the same, but picks one attribute to combine with the defense stat, even if it's the same attribute used to derive it. Here's the fun part. Whoever has more points ... decides what happens. If the defender WANTS to get hit, so be it, if the attacker WANT to miss for dramatic effect, again, it's all good. PROPERTIES OF THE BLOOD The average person contains 7 vitae/blood points Waking up - 1 vitae The Blush Of Life - 1 vitae Keeping food down for a short while - 1 vitae (Character loudly and violently vomits once the scene is up) Boosting a physical attribute by 2–1 vitae heal 1 damage -1 vitae PS Overnight, vampires revert to the state in which they were embraced. Tattoos vanish, stubble and hair regrows, scars vanish, etc. To keep a tattoo, haircut, particularly meaningful scar, a willpower point must be spent each night. DAMAGE While the game has different types of damage, and various mechanisms for suffering and recovering from them, we're going to simplify everything. For starters, there is only one kind of damage. 3 points for a post in unobstructed sunlight or entirely engulfed in fire (or acid, or subjected to sufficient electricity to set a body on fire) 2 points of damage per round spent as the target of gunfire 1 point if half or less of the kindred's body is exposed to fire or sunlight (or acid, or subjected to sufficient electricity to set a body on fire) 1 point of damage for an entire post spent in combat with mortals using bladed or melee weapons 1 point of damage for any successful attack from another vampire's fangs, or the natural attacks of vampires with certain disciplines When a vampire sleeps, their body resets to the state it was in at the time of their embrace. Getting a haircut, a piercing, a tattoo? Just shave, or maybe you grew a beard? Doesn't matter, you'll wake up looking just like you did when you died, a grim reminder of your eternity. HOWEVER, a willpower dot can be expended while one rests to maintain any physical changes, even keeping scars, or lost limbs for those who wish to do so. ALMOST FORGOT THE GLOSSARY! Barrens - The part of a city where one does not often find kine. Clan - Your clan is hereditary, passed to you at the moment of embrace, your vampires 'family'. While it has little importance in Kindred society, it has a great deal to do with the nature of your undead experience, and the beast that lurks within. Coterie - A small, organized group of vampires brought together for a purpose, or to achieve a goal, even if that goal is only survival, or company. It comes from a time long ago, when kindred could afford to live solitary lives, coming together only in times of need. In more modern times, it is a general term for small groups of kindred who stick together for one reason or another. Covenant - Far more important in Kindred society than your clan is your covenant. Covenants are the gangs of the vampire world, their members sharing defining beliefs, practices, or philosophies. Within covenants are factions and hierarchies and subgroups of all kinds, but the Covenant holds them together under a guiding principle or paradigm, and against the pressures of the other covenants. Dance Macabre, The - A French term, used to refer to kindred society. IE 'I've withdrawn from The Dance Macabre to focus on more important matters, like unconsciousness.' Détente - The tacit agreement between the races of darkness to leave one another alone. As a general rule, the Kindred are aware of Lupines and Mages, but see them only on the rarest of occasions, often with exceptionally unpleasant results. The same is true of the other sides, who want little to do with the damned in most cases. Diabetic - The act of killing another kindred by drinking all of their vitae. The drinker absorbs the victim's soul, gaining power, but losing significant humanity. Domain - What a Prince rules over, often times adhering to existing borders. IE Seattle, instead of half-of-Seattle. Every domain is organized and operated a little differently, but by-and-large they are hierarchies with a prince at the top, like the feudal system most of the most powerful kindred grew up with. Elysium - A safe space where kindred business can be conducted with a no-violence guarantee, enforced by the local ruling Prince. Embrace, The - The act of creating another kindred by draining a kine of vitae, and replacing some of it with your own. This has been a test of your vocabulary The embrace is an ecstatic experience for both the feeder, and the food, as both experience what the book literally describes as an orgasmic experience. Ghoul - A kine bonded to a kindred by way of the Cingulum. Essentially a brainwashed human servant. Fog of Eternity - When a kindred enters torpor for an extended period of time, their memories begin to fade and drift, which is why the origins of the kindred race are entirely mysterious. Harpy - The well-known and elite of kindred society. Haven - A home fit for a kindred, somewhere safe from the sun, safe from intrusion and prying eyes. Somewhere to sleep the day, bring victims, hold conspiratorial gatherings, and the like. Neonates do not often start out with a suitable haven. Even homes they held in life are likely unsuitable for their new requirements. As such, new kindred will often stay with their sires until they receive their own haven somewhere within the domain. Herald - The prince's mouthpiece, sent to deliver messages, proclamations, and generally speak on his behalf in matters he cannot attend personally. Herd - A group of kine, or vessels, in which it is relatively safe to feed. Hound - An enforcer, working for a domain's sheriff. Kindred - What vampires call vampires. Kine - What vampires call humans. Lick - A human who is aware of the kindred, and enjoys the ecstasy that comes with being fed upon. Master of Elysium - The keeper of Elysium, who acts as both host, and guardian, often with a coterie of subordinates. Imogen - The Prince's private advisors. Prince - The most influential Kindred in an area, recognized by the covenants as holding reign over an area, often a whole city or town. Prices - The representative of a clan in a domain. Rack, The - The parts of a city that humans frequent. Requiem, The - A musical term, used to refer to undead life. IE 'I'm rather enjoying my requiem Sgt;gasp, moan, giggle;' Seneca - The Prince's right hand, usually assigned the actual details of operating the government. Sheriff - Responsible for enforcing the Prince's laws in a domain. Torpor - A near-death state in which the kindred looses awareness and control in exchange for the ability to heal from great injury. The length of the sleep depends on the severity of the wounds. Vessel - A kine being hunted. Cingulum - The third time a kindred tastes the blood of another of their kind, they fall victim to a supernatural, emotional bond, a kind of artificial love that compels the drinker to extreme pliancy, care, respect, and infatuation. Vitae - Blood, silly ^_^ Whip - An informal and eldritch position, the Whip is responsible for ... ahem, rallying support and 'inspiring' her fellow ... there's no way not to say clan members -_- PROFILE Name: (NAME HERE) xoxoxoxoxoxoAge: (REAL AGE HERE) xoxoxoxoxoxoGender: (GENDER HERE) Clan: (CLAN HERE) xoxoxoxoxoCovenant: (COVENANT HERE) xoxoxoxoxoConcept: (CONCEPT HERE) Virtue: (VIRTUE HERE) xoxoxoxoxoxoVice: (VICE HERE) xoxoxoxoxoxoBlood Potency: ●○○○○○○○○○ Attributes Physical xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo Mental xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo Social Strength: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoIntelligence: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoPresence: ●○○○○ Dexterity:●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoWits: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoManipulation: ●○○○○ Stamina: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoResolve: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoComposure: ●○○○○ Skills (Skill 1) ~ (A short summary, mention and specializations.) (Skill 2) ~ (etc.) (Skill 3) ~ (and so on) Disciplines (Discipline 1) ~ ●○○○○ ~ (A short summary) (Discipline 2) ~ ●○○○○ ~ (and again ...) (Discipline 3) ~ ●○○○○ ~ (You get the idea.) Merits (Merit 1) ~ (A short summary, mention and specializations.) (Merit 2) ~ (blah blah blah) (Merit 3) ~ (add add add) Willpower: ■□□□□□□□□□ xoxoxoxoxoHumanity: ■□□□□□□□□□ xoxoxoxoxoSpeed: ●○○○○○○○○○ Defense: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoSize: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoInitiative: ●○○○○○○○○○ Background (Your background goes here. Give us a little bit about your human life, how you met your sire, how you were embraced, how you came to Seattle, etc.) ​ Spoiler Code: [CENTER][B]Name:[/B] (NAME HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Age:[/B] (AGE HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Gender:[/B] (GENDER HERE) [B]Clan:[/B] (CLAN HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Covenant:[/B] (COVENANT HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Concept:[/B] (CONCEPT HERE) [B]Virtue:[/B] (VIRTUE HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Vice:[/B] (VICE HERE) [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Blood Potency:[/B][COLOR=dark red]●○○○○○○○○○[/COLOR] [B][SIZE=5]A[/SIZE][SIZE=4]attributes[/SIZE] Physical[/B] [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR] [B]Mental[/B] [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR] [B]Social Strength:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Intelligence:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Presence:[/B] ●○○○○ [B]Dexterity:[/B]●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Wits:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Manipulation:[/B] ●○○○○ [B]Stamina:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Resolve:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Composure:[/B] ●○○○○ [B][SIZE=5’S[/SIZE][SIZE=4]kills[/SIZE] (Skill 1)[/B] ~ (A short summary, mention and specializations.) [B](Skill 2)[/B] ~ (etc.) [B](Skill 3)[/B] ~ (and so on) [B][SIZE=5’D[/SIZE][SIZE=4]disciplines[/SIZE] (Discipline 1)[/B] ~ ●○○○○ ~ (A short summary) [B](Discipline 2)[/B] ~ ●○○○○ ~ (and again ...) [B](Discipline 3)[/B] ~ ●○○○○ ~ (You get the idea.) [B][SIZE=5’M[/SIZE][SIZE=4]exits[/SIZE] (Merit 1)[/B] ~ (A short summary, mention and specializations.) [B](Merit 2)[/B] ~ (blah blah blah) [B](Merit 3)[/B] ~ (add add add) [B]Willpower:[/B] ■□□□□□□□□□ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Humanity:[/B] ■□□□□□□□□□ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Speed:[/B] ●○○○○○○○○○ [B]Defense:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/color][B]Size:[/B] ●○○○○ [COLOR=transparent]xoxoxoxoxo[/COLOR][B]Initiative:[/B] ●○○○○○○○○○ [B][SIZE=5]B[/SIZE][SIZE=4]background[/SIZE][/B] (Your background goes here. Give us a little bit about your human life, how you met your sire, how you were embraced, how you came to Seattle, etc.) [/CENTER] Post Header​ Code: [b][color="A NOTICEABLE Color!"[size=6](First letter here)[/size][size=5](character name here, but obviously with the first letter between the first size tags.)[/size][/b][/center] [b]Health:[/b] (Size+Stamina) [color=dark red]●○○○○○○○○○[/color] [b]Location: Companions:[/b] (Place Mentions Here) [spoiler][b]Appearance: Gear:[/b] [/spoiler] Characters​ Spoiler: Madeline Usher Name: Madison Allen, AKA Madeline Usher xoxoxoxoxoxoAge: 21 xoxoxoxoxoxoGender: Female Clan: Maéva xoxoxoxoxoCovenant: The Circle of the Crone xoxoxoxoxoConcept: Spiritual Butterfly Virtue: Forgiveness xoxoxoxoxoxoVice: Lust xoxoxoxoxoxoBlood Potency: ●●○○○○○○○○ Attributes Physical xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo Mental xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo Social Strength: ●○○○○ xoxoxoxoxoIntelligence: ●●●○○ xoxoxoxoxoPresence: ●●●●○ Dexterity:●●●○○ xoxoxoxoxoWits: ●●●○○ xoxoxoxoxoManipulation: ●●●○○ Stamina: ●●○○○ xoxoxoxoxoResolve: ●●○○○ xoxoxoxoxoComposure: ●●●○○ Skills Academics ~ M ~ Madison paid attention in grade school, managed to get onto the honor roll, and when it came time for university, she knuckled down and focused on her studies. Athletics ~ P ~ Being the type to spend a weekend studying, Maddie found she needed a way to blow off steam. She's fast, agile, and loves hiking, running, and soccer. Empathy ~ S ~ Madison has always been keenly observant of those around her, even before she understood what all those little ticks and tells and touches meant. Expression ~ S ~ Eager to spend the money of neglectful parents, and unable to decide on her goals, Madison explored her artistic talents alongside her academic interests. Investigation ~ S ~ Intelligent, and a lateral thinker, Maddie's skill for investigation and deduction are more happenstance talents than practiced skills. Larceny ~ P ~ A young Madison was drawn to sleight of hand and magic in hopes of earning the attention and approval of her working socialite parents. She still loves coin magic. Occult ~ M ~ While young Maddie loved stage magic, an older, more jaded Madison fell in love with tarot, crystals, and eventually the occult. Persuasion ~ S ~ Strikingly beautiful, empathetic, and clever, Maddie can wrap people around her finger like those coffee brown locks. Socialize ~ S ~ Socialization is 80% listening, and since Madison doesn't necessarily enjoy the act of speaking with other people, she's rather good at it. Disciplines Celerity ~ ●●○○○ ~ The ability to move at impossible speeds, with incredible precision. Vigor ~ ●○○○○ ~ Most vampires have super-human strength. Vigor provides super-vampire strength. Majesty ~ ●○○○○ ~ At her current level, Madison's already impressive personal magnetism can be magnified to mesmerizing potency, instantly enrapturing all but the most willful of targets. CRAC ~ ●●○○○ ~ The blood magics of the Circle of the Crone, taught to its members in secret and confidence. Merits Blood Potency ~ ●●● ~ Months after Embracing her, after confessing his eternal love, her Sire found a new favorite. The sting was too much, and a betrayed Madison only remembers awakening covered in her Sire's blood, feeling ... stronger. (3 dots buys 1 level.) Striking Looks ~ ●● ~ Madison might have been beautiful as a human, but the power of the Embrace, of the Maéva, has made her absolutely breathtaking. Willpower: ■■■■■□□□□□ xoxoxoxoxoHumanity: ■■■■■■■□□□ xoxoxoxoxoSpeed: ●●●●○○○○○○ Defense: ●●●○○ xoxoxoxoxoSize: ●●●●● xoxoxoxoxoInitiative: ●●●●●●○○○○ Background​Madison was born in Oakland, California one warm night in late October. From a distant vantage point, her life might look rather charming; The best nannies took care of her, and were near-at-hand at all times, she was always dressed in the best clothing, attending the best schools, Using the best violin to learn from the best tutor, trips out of the country every summer. It's only once you get closer you start to see the cracks. If it wasn't for a feeding, of a baby-Maddie Facebook update, or a birthday, or a baby-shower, her parents left actually raising Madison to nannies, and tutors, and teachers. They were more interested in their careers, in their social lives, in their free time. At first, young Maddie thought she could earn their attention with good grades, with commendations for music, for track and field. By the end of junior high she'd figured out that none of her accomplishments made them proud of her, they just enjoyed the attention, getting to show her off, accept the praise for raising such a talented girl. They would hold her close, kiss her on the forehead, call her their greatest achievement, but once no one was around ... once it was just the three of them, it might as well have just been them. Not a word, not a glance, they wouldn't have noticed if she'd jumped out at an intersection if it weren't for the door sensors. That's when things started to go downhill. She genuinely loved school, learning, soaking up knowledge about anything and everything, but now she had a keen awareness of the hole in her gut, the reason she felt so very, very small. She started hanging around the smoke pit. Met new friends, bad friends, the kind who took her to parties with twenty-something, encouraged her to drink, try things out of little plastic bags, lock herself in rooms with strangers. She never let her grades slip, but there was a noticeable change in her personality. The sweet, kind, ready-to-please girl had been replaced with a brooding, irate, self-destructive young woman. Her parents only noticed in passing when she got her ears pierced a second, or third time, when she dyed her hair, blasted her music, yelled. They just pulled away more, left her alone like she was at the wrong party. What was so wrong with her anyway? They took notice when the calls started coming in late at night. The hospital, the police, her school. She was still on the honor roll, but there had been incidents. Fighting, screaming matches, public indecency. They finally sat her down. Part of her was almost excited, they cared enough to intervene, to set time aside to sit and talk with her. It wasn't quite what she expected. It was an ultimatum. Cause any more trouble, and she wasn't welcome there anymore. The company she kept was up to her, but anything requiring their attention, anything that would reflect poorly on them, and they would just cut ties. She wasn't worth the effort. She was heartbroken. When she asked to stay home the next day, they said she'd made her bed, and had to lay in it ... drove her right up to the steps. It was different after that. Her anger became a silent one, eating away at her while she sprinted toward graduation, toward freedom. She moved out right away. Her 'upturn' had earned her the offer of a full-ride from her parents. She accepted a scholarship at a school across the country, packed up what she could carry and left. University was just like high-school. She knuckled down, filled her timetable, and in her free time she tried to fill the emptiness inside with neon lights and strange chemicals. It never lasted long, just until the beat faded, until the bruises and headaches and hand-stamps had faded. Her first year timetable looked like a self-help program, with the first semester dominated by psychology, philosophy, and ECE courses while her second semester was brimming with music and art courses of all kind. In some ways it was freeing, learning that what she felt was natural given what she'd been through, that her parents had indeed wronged her, that she would learn to cope with the pain. So she tried to find ways to cope. She found solace in her art, in her running, in her books. She fell into spirituality after discovering a quaint little 'magic' store on her way home one day. Something about that world drew her in, transfixed her, and the interest permeated her work through her second year. It was on an outing to take night-shots of famous or infamous occult locations in the area when she met him. She noticed him in her photos first, lurking at the edges, never facing the camera. By the third stop she'd caught sight of him once or twice, had his glitch-obscured face in too many photos to explain away. He laughed when she confronted him at the bus stop. He had come from nowhere, was just standing there staring. Never short of a protective amulet or two, she started waiving around some obscure medallion (according to the store owner in the mall who had a bucket of them ...). Needless to say it didn't work, and he introduced himself as Dorian. She had the photos, he wasn't normal, but he insisted it was a problem with her camera, asked if she wanted to get a drink and talk about it. There were so many little things. He never seemed to finish drinking his bourbon, he almost never blinked, didn't seem to breathe unless he needed to speak ... little things, things you don't notice consciously. At the same time, some enticing power kept her talking, kept her at the little bar until closing time. Who knows if he intended to kill her that night, but he convinced her to let him walk her home, right up to the room. It had been a while, and he seemed to say all the right things. She was almost offended when he stopped kissing her, climbed off her, moved over to her paintings, to her portfolio. He brought it over, asked if she'd painted them, said they were almost as beautiful as she was. He seemed more ... more passionate after that, kept whispering sweet nothing's into her ear as he made her feel things she'd never dreamt of. Their relationship was fierce. There were so many little things ... how he would never meet her during the day, how he would never stay the night, how dark his place was. On the other hand, who would rationally assume they were sleeping with the undead. It was only a week after graduation when he told her the truth. They were still laying in each other's arms when he told her he was a vampire. She just laughed, like he had at the amulet that first night. He told her he was being serious, that he was in love with her, that he wanted to spend eternity with her. He proved it too, bore his fangs, showed her what part of his touch had given her so much pleasure. She was shocked to silence ... but she wasn't frightened. He'd had so many perfect opportunities to snap her neck, and never had ... so then, this was real ... this was a real offer. What nineteen-year-old would turn down eternal youth, their own Anne-Rice romance, and love? He embraced her that night, passionately, gently. She was so enraptured she didn't even feel her heart stop. Then all she could feel was hunger. He taught her to hunt, how to leave her prey alive. He taught her to use her charm, to use her new powers, to live in kindred society. Furthermore, he also taught her the most valuable lesson of all ... never trust a vampire. It started as a night or two a month, then a week, she would wake to find him missing from their haven, gone out hunting on his own. Each time she would make her own way, find her own meal, and each time they would meet again before daybreak, share their passions, he would tell of some meeting or matter and that would be the end of it. It wasn't until the end of the first year that she started to notice things. Little things. A whiff of the same perfume, the same person, lingering on his lips, on his clothes. While at first he returned with plenty of time before morning, as time went on he began to cut it closer and closer, until she barely saw him on those nights. Finally, one night she woke to find him waiting for her. He told her he was sick of her, of looking at her, at what she'd become. He'd seen so much of himself in that university student, and now ... now he just saw a cruel reflection of his own damnation. Why then, she demanded in tears, had he turned her. How could he now say he was sick of her, when it was him she'd turned for. He flew into a rage, struck her, threw her down, pressed his hand around her throat. He told her she would leave that night, that she wouldn't return, that she knew enough to get by, that he'd fulfilled his duties as sire. She was heartbroken. What had she done? What hadn't she done? She'd given him her life, and now ... Something took hold inside of her, a primal kind of rage that drove her up from the floor, drove her to his throat, to his jugular. He roared and battered at her, pulled and tore and scratched, but she was locked onto him, drawing out more and more vitae by the minute, drawing until his very essence began to fill her. By the time she regained control he was little more than a cold heap on the floor, truly lifeless eyes peering up at nothing in particular. What had she done?! She could feel him, feel his soul within hers, feel his disdain for her adding to her own self-loathing, feel the cold grip of the beast tightening. She could feel his power adding to her own, feel his knowledge seeping into her ... but she could feel fear ... she couldn't feel anything at that moment. Furthermore, she knew things though ... knew she had to get rid of the evidence, leave town with whatever funds and assets she could find and carry. It seemed ironic that the man's own mind should fuel the looting of his penthouse, but she was fleeing into the night with a large portion of his wealth as the flames began to spread. Madison slowly made her way back across the country, as far from the scene of her crime as she could get, hindered by her lack of usable ID. California was still too risky, as she'd been reported missing just over a year prior. The sunny south wasn't appealing, so she headed north, headed for Seattle. It was during her travels she first came into contact with the Circle. Cornered one night in the Midwest, three members of the covenant demanded to know why her aura was tainted with the marks of diabetic. Frightened, and unsure of her other options, she told her story. It took some convincing, but the Circle proved sympathetic, and after a few deeds to prove her worth and loyalty, she was inducted. Passions from her human life flared as they exposed her to their form of magic, REAL magic, not to mention a religious philosophy she could support. She wasn't one for ritual, but it was a small price to pay for access, for knowledge. They were instrumental in convincing the Parthians in Seattle to arrange a place for her to live, rights to hunt in the domain. Helped her arrange her new identity. She's been living in her small apartment downtown for about two weeks now. ​ Spoiler: Tallest Anderson Name: Alleges Anderson Age: 42 Gender: Female Clan: Nosferatu +1 strength) Covenant: Nosferatu (She doesn't get out much) Concept: Icelandic Bitch Virtue: Loyalty Vice: Violence Blood Potency: ●○○○○○○○○○ Attributes Physical Mental Social Strength: ●●●●○ Intelligence: ●○○○○ Presence: ●○○○○ Dexterity:●●○○○ Wits: ●●○○○ Manipulation: ●●○○○ Stamina: ●●●○○ Resolve: ●●●●○ Composure: ●●●○○ Skills (Skill 1) ~ Drive : Despite not really needing to drive too often, if there's ever a need for a getaway driver, her skill behind the wheel comes in handy. (Skill 2) ~ Firearms : what can she say? Sometimes it's easier to snipe a tragedy from a distance, blame it on a human, and keep your fangs clean in the process. *Specialty (Skill 3) ~ Larceny ... Picking locks, mainly into safes. (Skill 4) Stealth, for sneaking behind the enemy lines. * Specialty (Skill 5) crafts, while usually she makes little trinkets, sometimes she makes more useful things, like personalized fang caps. (Skill 6) Medicine, one of her more advantageous skills is her intimate knowledge of medicine (especially anatomy) to help in tricky environments. (Skill 7) Occult. Should know your history when you're living in a vampire world. Has a select few books on werewolves and mages. (Skill 8) Intimidation, seeing as she's not scared of causing a fight. (Skill 9), Streetwise - growing up in a rough area, she feels more at home knowing the ins and outs of the city. * Specialty Disciplines (Nightmare) ~ ●●○○○ ~ To work with or against (Obfuscate) ~ ●○○○○ ~ good at blurting the lines (Vigor) ~ ●○○○○ ~ she's vigorous Merits (Merit 1) ~ Relentless Add 2 to the successes needed against you in a chase (Good luck catching her, basically) (Merit 2) ~ Small-Framed -1 Size. Take a +2 bonuses to hide, go unnoticed, or otherwise benefit from your size. Character creation only. (She's small enough to hide much more easily. Especially good at hide n' seek) (Merit 3) ~ Endemic Memory Ignore rolls for recall or memory. +2 bonus to recall minute facts buried in other information. (Essentially, she has a very good memory) Willpower: ■■■■■■■□□□ Humanity: ■■■■□□□□□□ Speed: ●●●●●○○○○○ Defense: ●●○○○ Size: ●●●●○ Initiative: ●●●●●○○○○○ Background Turned at the age of 18, she forever looks young and fragile, her porcelain skin making her seem pure and innocent from a distance, though she carries an unsettling aura with her that most mortal beings would pick up on but not quite understand - not able to realize the unease they feel is down to the darkened, almost decaying inside the girls soul. Before she was a vampire she wasn't much better: she still showed little empathy, had a hard time communicating feelings and rarely put anything ahead of her ambitions ... She had grown up with her friends as her only true family, forming a large rag-tag group of kids that couldn't rely on their blood and fended for themselves instead: and that meant putting the groups needs above their own - which usually meant they needed money, and the illegal stuff more often than not paid well (anything from drug running, to thievery, to firearms). She was cold to the world, but it was driven by her compassion to protect the ones who couldn't protect themselves within the group, and the adults weren't going to be of any help. Her parents were still around, sure, but they were usually too drugged up to care when their daughter didn't come home for weeks on end, neither did they care when two dozen kids would use their home as a clubhouse. They were a non-starter. She met the vampire that passed his curse onto her in the middle of the night - having once again left home in search of somewhere less occupied to sleep (she loved her growing family, but god were they noisy). She was alone and tired though not scared - she'd grow up in Seattle and thought she knew the place like the back of her hand. The man-the Vampire-was a seclusive thing, hunched over and shadowed, his hair a mess of grease and eyes fogged over with patient intent. He'd been following her since she left the flat, unnoticed by the too confident child roaming the streets at such a dangerous hour. She'd later come to find he was one of the few under the influence of the cingulum, in a state where he could barely call his actions his own, and he specifically was under a single order - to bring another into the realm of the undead. The order he'd been given was carried out after much debating and with a heavy burden of reluctance - or so she'd been told, the sired man had refused to speak any further on the matter, regardless of threats. Of course, she didn't know of this, all she was aware of was the foreboding sense of dread that comes over one in the thick of night when safety seems forgotten, and nerves begin to break. Her feelings were justified once she eventually caught site of a man, clad in a visage of black, who walked at a brisk pace behind her who's stopped when she stopped and eventually ran when she ran. She'd begin feeling weary of this game of chase. She'd been hoping to lose the feeling once she'd dipped into an alley, away from prying eyes, as she grabbed a half broken bottle from the floor for defense, turning to face whoever was giving her such an awful time. Furthermore, she was just trying to find somewhere to sleep for the night, and tired and alone be damned, she was always ready for a fight. The following events caught her off guard, before she even had time to scream there was a blood-curdling crunch of bone as she was thrown to the floor with an inhuman strength, mildly aware of the thing following her down and being feasted upon, the hot slice of teeth opening up the skin above her collar bone in a slow and agonizing fashion, that lasted seconds but felt an eternity. He stayed their unmoving, as Alleges tried to force herself to scream and thrash out against her attacker in a fit of terror, but soon she fell unconscious, life flickering out at the moment that her heart stopped beating. Her hearing was the last of her senses to dissipate, giving her full account of the man's grating voice, muffled by her own neck, and blood. From his lips came a resound muttering of disgust and disgrace that etched itself deep into Alleges's memory. It was like she was nothing more than dirt he had to clean. The whole ordeal happened in a matter of minutes, and still to this day, despite her best efforts, she knows not of whom the man behind the strings was that made her this way or even why. Who was the one that sired the monster that did this to her? Why did they get away with it? And why leave her filthy, and to rot in the Seattle sewers? Alleges had to drastically alter her view of the city once she'd been turned - growing even colder the more time she spent as a vampire. On days that grow in rarity, she'll remember her old life, the family she had to leave behind out of fear of hurting them, the comfort of the sunlight and carefree holidays, of being cared for and protected... And it breaks her resting heart to pieces, and thus she would in turn remember why she wants so much to forget - but she won't. Not just yet. She was to keep her humanity until she found out why this happened to her - without her humanity, she may lack the will to care, and she needed answers. Still rather inexperienced, there's much she has to learn about the political side of her new(ish) world, and often relies on others to do the hard thinking for her, more than happy to stick to doing the dirty work for her clan instead. She's stoic, and unafraid of voicing her opinions, and will do so whenever she feels like it, but she often doesn't have the energy anymore to argue. Announcements (Feb–10–2019) - The RP is now tentatively open to applications! Please PM them to me for approval!​ [reserved for intro post]

Vampire the Requiem ~ Help Me, I'm Hungry (OPEN AND ACCEPTING!)|rating:4.0

A second Life Remake {Open _ Accepting}

A Second Life After a few thousands of years pasted of living on the earth, and continuing to pollute it with gasoline not to mention with all the littering people always did. Earth had finally become a planet that no human could live on anymore. Thankfully by this time, the human race had learned enough knowledge to go into outer space and start to colonize other planets. Doing so, several ships were built; each one leading to a different planet in the solar system. Thousands among millions of humans had each went to a separate ship. Some had gone onto a ship that lead to Mars, others went to mercury, some even went to Pluto. Once every human had gotten onto their own ships and went to the planet; it hadn't taken that long for them all to get used to the conditions there, due to the fact that they had made large domes that held oxygen for people in live in. The domes had pretty much everything humans would need, and they were all humongous. Since there weren't really any animals on these planets besides the ones that people took with them as pets; the human race had to begin planting their foods and growing it. It had seemed that each and every person was getting along just fine with the fact that they were all separated like this. Though, soon enough; everyone began to have strange mutations giving them strange powers as well. After the scientists had found out these 'mutations'; people had immediately begun to create a school for the people who had these powers on Neptune. It had been most of the teens that had received the strange powers from the planets though. So most of the adults didn't really care for the powers anyway, but there was one problem. Most of the older adults had begun to despise their own children for having these powers; so they had called any and all who had the strange powers 'freaks' and many other names. Figuring this out, some of the teens never really went back to their parents as they either went to the abandoned earth to live away from the pain of being called names and even sometimes hit. Other teens were getting rather angry with this; so much, that they had even started a war with the 'normal' human race. The government had actually accepted the proposal for war even if it were from children and teens. Knowing how they had their strange powers, people were getting rather afraid that they wanted the children and teens dead. Some teens even were afraid of the war so much that they went back to the adults and got their powers removed by using science. Those teens, were then forced to face their other friends that had powers and fight in the war as well; even if they didn't want to. ~Rules~ No God Modding. Do not kill others without permission from me and the other person. Romance and Violence is encouraged but don't take it too far. Try to post at least a couple of times a week. Writer's block is understandable. If your going to be gone for a while let me know, or else two weeks without posting is automatic boot from the RP. PM all profiles to me. Name the PM 'Ignition'. No leaving others behind in the role-play. Keep it as a pace so you don't make it your own 1x1 RP here. No peppering. Meaning, DO NOT take control of other peoples characters and make them do something you want them to do. More rules will be added or removed if needed. Have Fun!~ ~Profile Skeleton~ Name: Age: (teenage years only please.) Race: Human* / (whatever half you want, or you can stay just full human with powers) Planet you live on: (has to be in the solar system. Don't make up one.) Power(s): (only up to 3, and try to make it match the atmosphere of the planet you live on. If you can't, that's okay too. As long as you try. For example: Pluto's would be like cold powers.) weapons: (only 2.) Bio: Appearance:(Give a picture for before when you went to your new planet and when you did. Since when they went to a new planet; they should change due to the strange atmosphere.) Other: ~Accepted Profiles~ Quote: Originally Posted by Happy death Name: Karachi Hot aka Age: 19 Race: Human* / Phoenix Planet you live on: Mercury Power(s): Is able to create flames in the palm of his hands for any use along with any form, able to change into a hybrid and full phoenix version, and able to heal external wounds with his tears. Weapons: A chain sword that he increases its length by putting his flames into it; along with a strangely shaped and colored sword made by the sands from mercury. Bio: Karachi was born and raised on earth before the time when all the people of the planet had to leave earth to go colonize on other planets. Throughout his life, it was rather difficult to live since his parents didn't exactly have a lot of money at all; so they always yelled at him to get a job so that he could get them everything they wanted rather than to take care of the whole family itself. Being an only child and not really having anywhere to go if he were to leave his family, Karachi just took all the yelling as he tried his best to find a job. Unfortunately, no one had ever hired him as he almost ended up quitting on everything. That is, until the day that everyone on the planet had to leave to go colonize on other words came. When his family had ended up getting onto the ship to go to Mars since it was the most colonized world and closest to best of all the worlds; Karachi snuck off to go get onto the ship that went anywhere else but there. Only to end up finding himself getting sent to Mercury; the hottest of all planets. Thanks to the dome however, it made things much cooler in there rather than outside on the surface of the planet. The other people that colonized there with him were much nicer than his parents ever were. Although one day, while he was working in the field to grow food along with everyone else in the dome. Karachi hadn't realized it, but he had ended up changing much more than he thought as he began to receive strange powers and had to end up burning the entire rake he was using to dig tiny holes for the seeds. All the people had seen this as they stared at Karachi in shock; immediately they began throwing rocks at him and telling him to get out of their dome. Which he had to do since no one was accepting him at all. There were other domes outside the one he lived in, although it required him to travel through the blazing heat of Mercury's surface; which no normal human could survive even 3 seconds of. Without realizing it once again, by the time Karachi had reached the other dome; he hadn't realized it, but he had also changed his own race from being out on Mercury's surface for too long. Once inside the dome, he had found a ship there only to figure out this place was ancient and abandoned. Karachi had remembered hearing about a school on Neptune that was for all the teens, so his thoughts immediately went over toward the fact that maybe they could help him with his powered abilities. By the time he had gotten there, he had heard from many others that there was a war starting between the powered teens and regular human race. Just hearing that, Karachi had feared the thought of having to kill others, although he tries now to see if he can stop the war without too much violence and death. Appearance: ~Before~ ~After~ Other: The weapons he has now been made from scratch through all the old machinery and metal he found in the old abandoned dome he found. He still lives in that abandoned dome if not; he'll end up living wherever he can, since he no longer has a home. Quote: Originally Posted by dylan736 Name:Tracy Dahl Age: 16 Race: Human Planet you live on: Mars Power(s): He can turn parts of his body giving him super strength\he can heat up the parts of his bodies that have been turned to stone weapons:he uses his fists Bio:Tracy grew up with just a mom and 4 sisters and 2 brothers, and he has always been the oldest in his Farley so he had to take care of every one he would work 4 jobs so he could pay for his Farley always scared that if he died it would kill his Farley before his father died he was a fighter all way picking fights with people util his dad died in a fight the last words that his dad head was being brave for your Farley Appearance: Quote: Originally Posted by Forever_Trapped Name: Reel Piano Age: 17 Race: Human* / Mermaid-Ice Maiden (more in bio) Planet you live on: Pluto, but actually re-located to Earth Power(s): water manipulation, ice abilities though they're harder for her, and breathing underwater (if it counts) weapons: She sticks to a sword and throwing knives she makes. Bio: Reel was supposed to be on the same ship with her half brother, but it apically failed, the two were separated and sent to two different planets. She was shoved on a ship to Pluto and went off with no knowledge of what place her brother went too, so it was 'best for her to consider him dead' as she was told. Being on the planet was harsh, cold. The longer she stayed, the more she felt... different. She changed and -in her opinion-not for the better. Scales crawled up her legs in the bath and she could manipulate the water. Needless to say - when Reel got out, she made sure the towel covered her legs so what was left of her fractured family didn't find the scales and throw her out onto the freezing planet. Alone, alienated and absolutely terrified, Reel didn't stay on Pluto for the full change, only for about two-thirds of it, finding other means -in her mind-of getting away from everything. She relocated back to Earth and spent her time not only fending for herself, but discovering and unlocking her full potential, weather it was swimming in the water for five hours or struggling to turn water to ice, but she eventually mastered it. Appearance: Before Out of water In water Other: Quote: Originally Posted by Cuddly moon Name:Scarlett Age: (teenage years only please.):14 Race: Human* / (whatever half you want, or you can stay just full human with powers)STAY HUMAN FTW! Planet you live on: Venus Power(s): Air and Rain(but she hardly uses rain cause its kinda pointless) weapons: (only 2.): Umbrella to control air and rain. She also has the power to take air away(and still survive) and create air Bio:Scarlett used to be the daughter of a rich lord before the Earth ended. She is used to high-end things and expects only the best. Furthermore, she is kind and giving to those who she cares for. Originally she thought her powers were useless so she is skilled in sword fighting with her umbrella (really). She always has to have a servant around and likes having people to do work for her though she is quite keen to go into battle. Appearance:Before;(except without the cat ears) After: (except usually not that happy and without cat ears) Other::):) Quote: Originally Posted by Grandson Name: Malcolm Nāga Age: 16 Race: Powered Human Planet you live on: Luna (Earth's moon) Power(s): Telekinesis, Energy Manipulation Shield/Blast, and telepathy weapons: Halberd Bio: Nāga's family moved to Luna shortly after he turned 14 and his powers started to manifest around 15. In order to try and master his power he has studied old arcane practices along with martial arts to try and master control. Appearance: Before: After: Other: Can be somewhat depressing at times, but most people who live on Luna are somewhat depressing due to be so close to their dead earth. Quote: Originally Posted by Gothic_Knight Name: Making Mitsuki Grim Age: 17 Race: Human* / Shinbone Planet you live on: Earth Power(s): Due to the death of Earth, she can control 'dead' things so to speak. For example, she can control a dead tree to her will, corpses and anything that is dead. Weapons: metallic claws Bio: Making Mitsuki Grim is one if a handful of being who can survive Earth's harsh climate. She was about to do so since she was technically part dead. Making was a Shinbone when her parents gave birth to her and raised to be human. Unfortunately her human form, decayed away making a permanent body for her that wasn't really normal. Her deformity has now been her blessing and she 'lives every day' on Earth or other places in the world. Appearance: Before: After: Other: wears a choker with the earth on it Quote: Originally Posted by Angelo Name: Danielle Olivia Pending (Dawn) Age: 14 Race: Human Planet you live on: Ceres Power(s): Superhuman intelligence, Retinopathy, and Magneto kinesis Weapons: Mecca and its weapons, pistol, and her knives Bio: Jacob and Dani grew up like any other kids during the colonization, which was to say not well. Lack of nourishment led to their small stature, despite their parents working two jobs each. Though they know their parents cared for them, they feel as though they were forgotten and neglected, having only each other. That's something they've held onto to the very end. Nothing will change that. Upon moving to Ceres, Jacob and Dani found that their bodies had changed due to the different environment. It took the villagers a while to get used to the powered teens, though they never truly did. One night, the villagers went on a rampage, killing every teenager but the twins, who managed to defeat them by combining their powers, resulting in a wave of deadly gamma radiation. They quickly realized from news reports that the same thing was happening all over the solar system, and put it in their minds to stop it. Using scrap metal and such, Dani came up with a crude machine that could inflict massive damage. She's been working on new designs ever since. So far, she's come up with five, but acquiring the materials is tough. They're going to take the two finished models to earth to see if they can gather some more supplies. So far, she hasn't come up with any names, though Jake keeps pestering her to go with Gun dam, one of his favorite anime. Appearance: Before: After: Still identical, the only real change to their physical appearance was that their hair became reminiscent of sunrises and sunsets. Their hair is now streaked with gold, navy, pink, and fiery red, as well as many other mixes of hues that generate the same coloring as the sky during sunrise and sunset. Their eyes also changed too. Their left eye is a brilliant gold, while the right is a sparkling silver. Dani only goes by Dawn because of the coloring of her Mecca. Other: Mecca: *Replace the black with pink* Name: Jacob Daniel Pending (Dusk) Age: 14 Race: Human Planet you live on: Ceres Power(s): Superhuman Strength/Durability, Telepathy, and Electrokinetic Weapons: Mecca and its weapons, rifles, and clubs Bio: Jacob and Dani grew up like any other kids during the colonization, which was to say not well. Lack of nourishment led to their small stature, despite their parents working two jobs each. Though they know their parents cared for them, they feel as though they were forgotten and neglected, having only each other. That's something they've held onto to the very end. Nothing will change that. Upon moving to Ceres, Jacob and Dani found that their bodies had changed due to the different environment. It took the villagers a while to get used to the powered teens, though they never truly did. One night, the villagers went on a rampage, killing every teenager but the twins, who managed to defeat them by combining their powers, resulting in a wave of deadly gamma radiation. They quickly realized from news reports that the same thing was happening all over the solar system, and put it in their minds to stop it. Using scrap metal and such, Dani came up with a crude machine that could inflict massive damage. She's been working on new designs ever since. So far, she's come up with five, but acquiring the materials is tough. They're going to take the two finished models to earth to see if they can gather some more supplies. So far, she hasn't come up with any names, though Jake keeps pestering her to go with Gun dam, one of his favorite anime. Appearance: Before: After: Still identical, the only real change to their physical appearance was that their hair became reminiscent of sunrises and sunsets. Their hair is now streaked with gold, navy, pink, and fiery red, as well as many other mixes of hues that generate the same coloring as the sky during sunrise and sunset. Their eyes also changed too. Their left eye is a brilliant gold, while the right is a sparkling silver. Jacob only goes by Dusk because of the coloring of his Mecca. Other: Mecca: ~Reserved~ WOW I should have read my thing before sending it to you ((Umm can I just keep my before picture as my picture right now because my after picture doesn't seem to be working.)) ((Not a problem. ^^ and you guys can start posting now.)) Scarlett sat beside a huge crater. It was starting to acid rain again. This time it wasn't her fault. She missed the clear rain on earth, she remembered she used to sit by the window until the rain ended and pull on her boots to play in the puddles. Then the maids would come out and scold her for getting yet another dress dirty. Slowly she got up and opened her umbrella, the rain didn't affect her like it affected the others, for normal people the high amounts of acid in the rain was too much, they would all scour inside. She had none of those problems, probably the only thing useful to this power was the immunity to rain." Hem" she said as the cleared her throat signaling to a maid. She bowed then put a cloak over her shoulders and escorted her inside. Tracy was just getting off work he was still new to this hole power thing and living on a planet covered in rock, but he wouldn't let it bother him he still needs to care for his family, so Tracy Thought that if he could use his power for the grater good that he would be able to show people that he's not that bad, and maybe they would leave the people on earth alone but he knew this would be a long shot so he decided to find a place to train but where would Tracy go were no one would find him Peering past earth from her telescope to the next planet Mars, Scarlett asked herself, I wonder what its like there, must be nice and dry, my Father once told me there used to be life there long, long ago. Until the Ice cap Froze and no more water was available. She must have said this out loud because a nearby maid replied, Yes m'am would you like to visit now?. Thinking for a moment Scarlett looked at her and said, Sure why not? A few moments later she found herself in a planted like Venus except completely covered in red dust. The air smelt kinda rusty as she called for her handkerchief. Walking along a path for a few moments, Scarlett spotted a teen about 16 years old with spiky black hair and a pointed face. Excuse me, where can I find a good spa and resort here? I need to get off my feet for a moment, T doubt she's strong enough to carry me. She said to him as she glared at her lady in waiting, ignoring her shamed'm Sorry Karachi during this time was actually no longer on the planet he was sent to; Mercury. Rather he was sitting on top of the school's rooftop, the school itself wasn't exactly standing on solid ground due to the fact that the entire planet itself was a planet made of plain gas. The only reason this school has been able to be built here along with the other domes was thanks to the intense wind speed in the area; the amount of wind around is strong enough to hold up anything in the air, and even if it were not able to be held in the air; there were other domes deeper down into the actual planet itself. Further down the planet toward the core was an actual solid surface where one could walk, but only those who have been mutated like the teens would be able to walk on the actual surface of Neptune. The adults wouldn't really be able to do that without instantly dying as they approach the core. Karachi wasn't exactly blown away from the intense wind while sitting on the rooftop of the school; he always came here every day as though he were going to school back on his and everyone's home planet. Earth. Sitting there and staring off into the foggy-like distance of the planet, Karachi could see multiple dome's with all their lights on. Just seeing that, it made Karachi think that the war that was proposed toward the government had never even happened as everything was just fine the way it was. It was cool, as it always was, underneath the water. The blue strands of hair flowed around her, and she couldn't help but smile softly at how lovely and peaceful everything was under here. Ever since she gained this ability - she'd been nothing but happy as one could be, even if the beginning was rocky but now - it was pleasant. Except the fact that she was driven out of her home and the fact that her brother was gone... that wasn't a positive outcome but under the water, everything was acceptable to her. Smiling even more, she sat down and let her tail curl around her, the transparent, natural additives to her tail flowing around her still. She wasn't like other mermaids - she didn't have a shell bra or a tail that curled to her lower stomach anything like that. No - not in the least. The scales that were on her tail curled up around her body, covering her stomach and chest where it then curled over one shoulder and scaled down to underneath her shoulder blades, covering her skin once more. Her hair was long, thick, and blue - but she did dive into the tradition of mermaids and have shells in her hair, and a shell bracelet around one wrist - which she made herself. But she supposed she should get out of the water for a little bit and go for a walk, she did need a little sunlight anyway. Shrugging to herself, she swam to the surface to climb out of the water, pulling herself onto the stone that outlined the water, which used to be a sidewalk. Sitting under the sun, she let herself dry off and the more the water went away, the more her legs showed through until -finally- two legs came from one tail. Reel smiled and stood up, grabbing the dress she kept near the water and put it on, beginning her walk through the destroyed land. Tracy saw a girl asking around if there was a spa he Tracy smirks and starts to walk over to the girl you look lost there are now spas on Mars where are you from he turns his head to see a maid now he knew she wasn't from hardhat do you want "Yes, Dusk," she replied, climbing into her Mecca. "I have enough fresh diapers and wipes for the journey. And clothes too. I just want to get going. We'll need time to set up shop on Earth, after all." Then she threw the duffel bag into the cockpit before clambering in herself. The pink and gold jumpsuit she wore was meant to protect her in case someone got lucky and broke through the Mecca with a bullet. It was made of carbon nanoliter, after all. Once inside the Mecca, she pulled the matching helmet over her head before closing the cockpit. Guided by her retinopathy, her Mecca started up, the engine whirring to life. The system she had developed was ingenious. It used the natural energy given of by decaying harmonic particles for fuel, basically giving it an infinite power source. As she powered it up, the particles were emitted by the harmonic drive, giving off a pink and gold aura. "I was just making sure, Dawn," Dusk answered, chuckling good-natured at his twin. Then he threw his bag into the cockpit before clambering in after it. An incident when they were here with the adults had left her permanently incontinent. Not that he minded. She was still his twin, after all. He just wished that she hadn't made the jumpsuits. They weren't very cool, despite the navy and black colors. The helmets were though. Unlike his sister, he had to start up his Mecca manually, which took a bit longer. After a few pressed buttons and flipped switches, though, his own baryon drive was powered up, spewing out an aura of navy and black particles. Checking the power readings, he directed his telepathy towards his sister. "All systems go," he announced. "Are you ready?" "Affirmative," Dawn replied. "Prepare for launch." Almost simultaneously, they plunged the lever forward to send the meccas out of the bay, giggling to each other about the oddity of the situation. They seemed to synchronize a lot of their movements. Probably part of the twin-bond thing. "Increase particle density by one hundred percent," she said, initiating the same process in her Mecca. Suddenly, both of them were covered in an almost opaque layer of particles. Again at the same time, they accelerated to maximum speed, breaking the sound barrier several times before they broke free from the tiny atmosphere of the dwarf planet. They would be on Earth in a little under twelve hours. Making walked the Earth as if it was still alive. There was no water, no trees or animals anymore. There was nothing but dessert. She was ok with thought, Making was already part dead, and she was ok with the earth being dead, even thought she was missing her left eye and had tattered camp; torn clothes that made her look exotic. The Dead Earth was able to speak to Making better than anyone else. Making has been dead since she died from dehydration and became a shinbone him. She loved being a suitable, with this she didn't have to worry about everyday life and learned to get use to the smell of a dead person. "I do enjoy walking, but I often wonder if you enjoy being walked on Mother Earth." she said in a soft and gently voice, a soft and slow moan escaped the cracks within the earth as if spoke to Making. Making considered the Earth her mother since her parents were dead and she was alone. "I wish I could end your pain Mother, it's not far how humans mistreated you. I would take care of you if I could." she said softly using her powers to summon a dad flower and tried her best to bring it back to life. After finally bringing it back to life, Making placed the flower in one of the cracks in the earth and vanished, the Earth moaned and summoned dead trees to hug Making happily, "You're welcome Mother. I love you." she said softly and giggled softly to herself as she sat down under the tree in exhaustion. She glared at the boy, who was he to smirk at her? Scarlett, daughter of the wealthy lord whose name brought both fear and admiration. "Venus thank you very much." she said to him cold before looking him over and stated." I wish for a place to stay, take me there." Doubting whether he had a place worthy of her. Mars was certainly a strange planet. Taking out her umbrella she waved it in a circular motion sending puffs of red dust flying in the air. At least the Air didn't smell like rust anymore.Ah, that's better Smiling at the looks of confusion from the people around her, she looked at the boy indicating for him to lead the way. Emerging from her nap, Dawn blushed slightly at Dusk's teasing. So what if she had fallen asleep? Sending back an equally joking retort, she grinned when he shut his mouth. He would hate for others to know he was terrified of spiders. She herself had a phobia of the dark, and needles, but that was beside the point. "Increase particle density by one hundred percent," she said into the mike, mentally ordering her Mecca to do so. The particles became almost impossible to see past, obscuring her vision of the upcoming planet. What she did see was blue, oh so blue. Ceres was simply bland by comparison. The blue must be the water, though the landmasses were strikingly brown and dead-looking. Suddenly, Dawn felt a force begin pushing her down, and it terrified her at first. Along the telepathic bond they shared, she could feel the same terror in Dusk, until they realized that it was just gravity. Laughing over their stupidity, they directed some power to their weapons. There was no telling whether something would be waiting to tear them up. Once he got the okay from his twin, Dusk cut back on the particle density, allowing him to see clearly as they streaked across the sky. With the ease acquired by months of practice, he flipped the sword around on the left fist of the Mecca. The red blade that appeared was quite large, but it was all harmonic particles, though it could slice through most metals. As they neared the ground, he cut off the propulsion system, dropping to the ground, and sliding the last few feet. His telepathy immediately detected an individual in the vicinity, and he set the scanners to full alert, fully cautious with his little sister landing nearby. Granted, he was only the elder by twenty minutes, but still, he was the elder. Almost immediately, his Mecca picked up the... girl on the scanner. She didn't seem to be in good shape though. All gray and lifeless-y. It wasn't the prettiest sight. But she could possibly give him directions, and so, he opened the cockpit, stepping out before shouting. "Say! Miss! Do you happen to know where we are?" As Karachi sat there on the rooftop of the school building after escaping from the human teachers who were telling him to get back to class. He just continued to sit there, hearing the teacher's voices from inside calling out to Karachi on wondering where he had gone. Many of them were also seeming to curse at him saying that this war against the inhuman teenagers was right, and they were hoping that the teenagers would soon be all killed. Just hearing that caused him to bite the bottom of his lip as he thought about the whole fact that there was a war going on between the teenagers and the whole entire human race. It made him feel rather uncomfortable as he placed a single hand onto his chest; even though the teens including himself may have become different with powers also changing their race and all that. That didn't mean that their memories were wiped away, deep down they were all still human, and they knew what it felt like to be human. So just thinking through that and knowing that once the fighting all started, many humans would be dying all because the adults can't approve of the sons and daughters of their own were now different from them. Continuing to think it through, Karachi couldn't hold down his sadness any longer as he jumped off the school rooftop as he fell through the gassy air of Neptune. All of a sudden, while he fell through the groundless planet; his own body had just exploded out of nowhere only to form itself into the phoenix as he flew right back up into the air until he had left the atmosphere of Neptune and was flying through space itself. All the while he flew through the endless space, the last thing he was expecting was to see two strange looking machines go bolting through the air right pass him. Noticing how they both were heading toward the now dead earth kind of confused him. What could be gained from going back there? So with curiosity, he followed them at his own speed just so that he wouldn't end up losing sight of them. Soon enough as he also reached the dead earth, Karachi landed himself on one of the ruined skyscrapers with his fire talons gripping onto the rails from about a good 3 to 5 miles. Sitting there and watching the two large machines also land he tilted his own head to see how they were standing in front of what looked like a person on the ground. Making was resting as dead Mother Earth was 'sleeping', she enjoyed the sun on her dead gray pale skin. The stitches holding her face together shifted and as she moved to the side and stretched. "If only all days could be like this." she said softly as she heard a sudden explosion in the atmosphere and loud thuds. Making growled through her dead lips as she felt the vibrates but pretended to remain asleep, using her only eye she has seen that they were smoking of me chic, 'What are the other planets coming to? Making such mockery that can easily be manipulated.' she thought to herself closing her eye again and looked at the dead tree Mother Earth formed. Suddenly she heard someone coming to her and spoke to her by asking where they were. A creepy chuckle escaped her dead chapped lips as she stood up like a healthy person and stared at the boy with her only eye and the empty eye socket that appeared to reveal what was left of a 'human' brain and possibly a cord that would have held the left eye. She decided to use her normal voice, but she was ready to defend herself from these travelers, "Ah lost travelers. I thought you could tell from the sky that you now call home. If you don't know what it planet is then you will be enlightened. This is Earth. The first and last earth the humans destroyed." Making growled as Mother Earth started to wake and moans softly to Making, telling her to please be nice. "As you wish mother." she said softly and crossed her arms angry still at the human race for killing Mother Earth. "I think you misunderstood me, ma'am," Dusk called out in response. "I meant where we are on Earth. What continent is this?" A large fiery bird was currently perched on one of the buildings from the faraway city. At least, he thought it was a large fiery bird. It was rather hard to tell at this distance. One thing for certain was that it had a sentient mind, much like a human. Opening her own cockpit, Dawn stepped out into the light as well, pulling off her helmet. Even from the distance between the girl and them, it was obvious that the two pilots were twins. They looked exactly alike, except for the clothing. "The satellites are off-line," Dawn said, frowning as she looked towards the sky. "But whether it's because they're old, or because they've been turned off I don't know." Pulling a water bottle from her bag, she took a large gulp before turning to look at the city. A city would have factories, and factories meant metal. "Do you..." "...want to check out the city? Sure," Dusk finished, before turning to the girl once more. "Do you want to come with us?" If she didn't, he wouldn't push it, but she seemed in real bad shape to be by herself. Making glared at the girl that came out the other much as the boy spoke to her again, saying that she misunderstood him. Crossing her arms, Making looked around and saw what they were looking at, the city or what was left of it. "You're in America if that answers your question, but since you plan to go there I have no other choice but to go with you. The city is decaying slowly, and the dust storms are horrible here." she said turning around and started to walking and started to see something on a skyscraper ruined building, 'More humans.' she thought to herself and looked at the boy and girl, "I wouldn't use your machines either. They won't work here...anymore. What are your names anyway?" she asked narrowing her eyes a little seeing Mother suck the tree back in the ground and summoned a skeleton horse for Making to ride. Making intended to protect dead Mother Earth, 'she' was the only thing to a family she had left since Making's actual parents were dead. She stared at the living siblings as her only good eye looked at them. "What do you mean they won't work?" Dawn asked, controlling the Mecca's arm with her retinopathy. "They're just fine. This place is almost as desolate as Ceres, and they worked well up there." Then she and her brother stepped back into their cockpits, engaging their harmonic drive when they were situated. The meccas powered up like always, but they only committed enough power to flight to make them float over the ground. No sense in using the legs to walk when it wasn't necessary. "America, huh?" Dusk repeated, looking over to his sister with the Mecca. "America was industrialized, right? That means metal and technology. This should be a bountiful harvest." His sister gave a mumbled yeah, but she seemed rather down. He would have to make sure she was okay when they stopped. While the skeleton horse the girl was riding would've been shocking, Dusk slapped it down to being a fellow mutant, and so left it alone. Their arrival at the city was just on time, with the giant red bird still perched on top of the building. "Hello there?" he called out, using the Mecca's speakers. Maybe the bird was a mutant too? Continuing to sit on top of the large skyscraper with his talons holding onto the top railings of the building so that he wouldn't end up falling off the large building; Karachi watched as the two large machines ended up causing what seemed like two humans stepping out of it to speak with the figure down below them. Tilting his head lightly and squinting his eyes closely toward the small figure on the ground, it took a lot of concentration but soon enough he was able to make out that the figure was a female on the floor, although taking a good look at her, he could tell that the female wasn't exactly human. What exactly she was made a complete mystery for Karachi to figure out as he could listen lightly to some of the conversation going on between the three. Hearing that they were in America kind of gave a little shock to Karachi as he looked around the area once more to see the large wasteland of nothingness. Truly, this place had changed a lot since he was last here when he was still a normal human being rather than the phoenix he was now. Giving a small sigh and shaking his head before turning his eyes toward the three once more seeing how the young female had created what looked like a skeleton horse. With his eyes widened up when he saw the horse, Karachi had nearly jumped in his spot when he had heard the speakers of what sounded like a male calling out to him. Giving a small screech toward the sound of the voice calling out to him; he simply jumped right off the skyscraper building. Flying his way over toward the three, by the time he had reached them; he folded his own wings together keeping himself in the form of the phoenix that stood about a good 20 to 25 feet." Who're you?" he asked through his voice even though his words sounded almost as though there was a bit of screeching in them. Making galloped away as the two followed her to the city as looked at the large bird on the building. She glared more angrily and tried to hold in as much as she could. The twins were in their techs, and she galloped only closer to the skyscraper as the Phoenix landed on the ground and asked who they were. "My name is Making. The Shinbone of Dead Earth. Who are you?" she asked getting off the horse and was soon sucked into the ground by Mother Earth after Main was done with it. Looking at everyone with her good eye, she became more angrily how they have just come to the Earth and get what they need them just leave. Growling lightly, Making held in her angry and crossed her arms to stay calm. Scarlett sighed, Mars had been a waste of time going there. She had been so looking forward to seeing Earth up close. She missed sitting under a tree on a hot summer day sipping lemonade which her servants had prepared moments ago. Lifting her skirt as she walked into a shallow pond. All that was gone now. Her family had owned the last trees on Earth until they came to Venus. They might still be Therese though. She suddenly had an urge to go to Earth. Not for a long period of time, just a quick walk wouldn't hurt anybody. She had enough power to make clean air there without tiring herself out. She would sneak out on her own before anyone could notice. Moments later, she floated across the planets towards Earth. Supported by her umbrella she almost forgot her reasoning staring at the stars. Things that could not be seen on Venus because of the Clouds or Earth because of the smog. Shaking herself she drifted off towards Earth smiling as she landed on a building. A bird-man was seen perched on top of a building, a few people below and a thing that didn't seem human screeching at the man. Foolsshe said to herself as she stared at the buildings. It wasn't as pretty as she imagined it to be, but it was better than nothing. Frowning at his sister's bummed mood, Dusk answered. "You may call me Dusk, and this is my sister Dawn. We come from Ceres to set up our base of operations here," he said, aware that a few others were gathering as well. "We're planning a revolution. If you wish to join, you will be admitted. But we warn you, you must be prepared to die." Powering down his Mecca at the same time as his sister, again, they lowered themselves to the ground, now able to get a closer look at Making and their surroundings. It was all so desolate. And suddenly, he knew what was wrong with Dawn. Looking over to her with concern, he correctly assumed she would prefer to be left alone at the moment. "If you laugh, I swear I'll punch you in the throat," Dawn said, walking over to the dirt strip in the middle of the road. Pulling something from her bag, she kneeled in the dirt, digging with her fingers. After a few moments, she was deep enough for the little organism to survive, and she dropped the seeds into the hole before covering them up. She had already tested the chemicals in the ground with her Mecca, and had found the results to be positive. Things could grow, it's just that there wasn't anyway for them to be planted. All the pollution and litter had worked itself out of the ecosystem in the centuries after the fall. "Revolution" what exactly were they thinking? The Government had a very strong hold on any of the planets no matter where you lived. She was still eavesdropping on their conversation though no one noticed her yet. Revolution on Ceres eh? Not able to contain herself anymore. Scarlett floated down from the building in front of them and said "I might be able to help you there, I am Scarlett from the planet Venus. My father has a very strong influence on the Governments, allow me to join you. Karachi simply stared at the young girl who had come up toward the skyscraper that he was perched on top of the entire time before coming down onto the ground. Keeping both his wings folded against his sides along with remaining in the form of the phoenix, Karachi tilted his head curiously to end up hearing that the young girl's name was Making, and she was a Shinbone of the dead earth. Looking around the area a bit he could tell what she was saying about earth pretty much being dead was correct. Turning his attention back over toward her, he had noticed how the skeleton horse she once rode had now sunken back into the earth as though the ground it was standing on was quick sand. Not bothering to even ask what that was about, Karachi just pointed toward himself with one of his wings to answer her question." My name is Karachi Hot aka; I am a phoenix of the planet Mercury."he stated right back to answer her question on who he was; wondering if the strange machines had heard him from how far they were from him. Thankfully enough, with the speakers from those large machines he was able to hear who they were and where they had come from along with what they were doing here. Hearing that it was going to be a revolution kind of got him even more curious about what they were planning before he had noticed another figure coming down from the atmosphere.

A second Life Remake {Open _ Accepting}|rating:3.0

Anchorage By Night [OOC_ Character Sheet Thread]

Post your approved characters here, once you get a post in the recruitment thread specifically telling you that you are approved! I will make a table of contents when there are enough sheets. :)* Henri (#msg16202805), played by Montage* Rosario (#msg16202810), played by Rummy Tum* Dmitri (#msg16202868), played by Hades* Sarah (#msg16203132), played by Red Phoenix* Alex (#msg16203685), played by Woflling72* Jordan (#msg16203898), played by virtual blue* Sandalwood (#msg16203912), played by Hope Fox* Rhiannon (#msg16204869), played by Geek let* Corbin (#msg16207422), played by TheWanderingMuse [not active, place in game held]* Fiona (#msg16210153), played by Slim (Henri Gabriel LavignePlayer: Montage (TremereChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Power-Hungry Occultist Haven: New Arrival - The Studios Demeanor: Traditionalist Terror Concept: Fallen From Grace Generation: 8 EXP Spent: 0Physical (3) Social (5) Mental (7)Strength: ●●●○○Charisma: ●●○○○ Perception:●●○○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●●●○ (Tempting With Power) Intelligence:●●●●○ (Research)Stamina: ●○○○○ Appearance: ●●○○○ Wits:●●●●○ (Sticky Situations)Talents (13) Skills (5) Knowledge (9)Alertness: ○○○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:●●○○○Athletics: ○○○○○Crafts (Mechanical): ●○○○○ Computer:○○○○○Brawl: ●●●●○ (Grappling) Drive: ○○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Dodge: ●●○○○ Etiquette: ●○○○○ Investigation:○○○○○Empathy: ○○○○○ Firearms: ●○○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●●○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○Intimidation: ●●●●○ (Threats of Violence) Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:●○○○○Leadership: ●●●○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:●●●●○ (Blood Magic)Streetwise: ○○○○○ Stealth: ○○○○○ Politics:○○○○○Subterfuge: ○○○○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Science:●●○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●●●●Dramaturgy (Primary) - The Path of Blood: ●●●●● Conscience:●○○○○Status ●○○○○Dramaturgy (Secondary) - The Path of Conjuring: ●○○○○ Self-Control:●●●●○ Courage:●●●●●Rituals Purge the Beast -Drive a pin through the subjects hand. The subject is separated from the beast and enters a submissive state. They cannot frenzy for X days (X= number of successes. Manipulation+Empathy vs 10 - Target Humanity) Humanity: ●●●●● ○○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●●●● Blood Pool:Maximum=15 (3 per turn)Health:Merits camp; Flaws Flaws - Total: 7ptsTremere Clan Weakness: Dominate Spells from Clan Elders are -1 difficulty. Bad Sight - 1 requires glasses/contacts or rolls involving eyesight are +2 difficulty Twitch - 1 His left eye twitches when stressed Dark Secret - 1 Killed Sire, Exiled to Anchorage after Chiller joined the Sabbath. Driving Goal - 3 Advance beyond the Premier understanding of Dramaturgy by integrating occult knowledge, can be driven to act by the storyteller with promises of occult knowledge New Arrival - 1 Waking up in Anchorage in the first night of our story Freebie Points27pts to Spend (20 Base + 7 from Flaws)3 points in the Dramaturgy = 21pts5 points in Willpower = 5pts1 point in Status = 1ptHistoryHenri was born in 1760 in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti) to a free woman of color and a recently arrived French Officer whom she married for his political clout. His father certainly loved Henri's mother Elena, and she, the brains of the family, at least loved her children. Henri was educated in Paris in the during the mid 1770s provided with the best school his plantation owning family could buy. His days in Paris were spent in the absolutist study circles of Louis XV, the last good King of France, and the idea of the beloved Le ROI Solar cast a long shadow over all education Henri received. He was brought up to believe in the wise Philosopher-Prince, with justice and order delivered from on high. Enlightened government came from authority, and those who were trained from birth to rule (little did he know how well this would prepare him for Kindred society). He was little impressed by the American Revolution and his fellow Frenchmen who went to serve in it, which appeared to him as squabble between a rabble of upstart slave owners and a mad king across the English Channel, both bleating about rights they didn't believe in. He returned to the Saint-Domingue in 1781 and served as a doctors assistant to Maxime Cousin, the man who would eventually become his sire. Furthermore, he did not know at first why he met to perform his experimental surgeries only at night, but slowly he was brought into the small circle of kindred that lived in Port-Au-Prince, first as a beloved and trusted servant of his master. Henri would attend to his business in the day, and was known for being eminently reliable. As a doctor in the brutal plantation economy of Saint-Domingue he saw plenty of things that would shake his humanity to its core long before he would even be embraced. The kindred on the island lived a life of ease, feeding from the enslaved populations and profiting from their labor were a perfectly normal part of the economy there, and Maxime was a particularly cruel master who would experiment on individuals to attempt to unlock the mysteries of the blood. Henri was a deeply religious catholic but as he travelled from plantation to plantation, providing rudimentary care to the enslaved peoples, he learned about their traditions, and the fusion of Catholicism and African traditions that had developed into Voodoo rituals. He would be embraced in the anarchy of the 1799 uprising by his sire for services rendered protecting him and the other kindred from harm. All around him was revolutionary fervor as the white land owning population of the island sought to enact their own American Revolution to be free of French taxation, the free people of color sought their own French Revolution where they would be equal to the white population but would keep their slaves, and the slave population just wished to be free and rid of all masters. Henri's natural sympathies were with the final group, and with the basics of blood magic learned from his sire he would end up leading a slave rebellion. His band of men would clash with his own sire in 1801 as the once united kindred community of the island split into endless factional warring on the same lines the humans did, and there he would end up killing Maxime. The violence of the uprising over five years turned him from a hopeful young kindred to someone who was brutal and cynical as the cycles of violence became increasingly for their own sake without a larger goal at heart. Saint-Domingue wasn't truly safe for any kindred, and so like many others by 1804 Henri had taken the shortest boat trip he could and fled the island, first to Jamaica, and then to New Orleans. He wasn't the only kindred émigré to arrive there from Saint-Domingue in those turbulent years, and the Prince offered a rare amnesty for the crimes committed on the island as long as those who landed defended the Camarillo. After half a decade of civil war, Henri was more than happy to take that bargain for stability, even if the taint of sire-murder never truly left him, and he was viewed with suspicion for decades. He settled into New Orleans Kindred society slowly, climbing the ranks of the Premier pyramid. He focussed his research on unlocking the potential of the blood, but not through the crude 'scientific' experiments of his sire but by combining the spiritual and folk knowledge he had learned in Saint-Domingue with the lessons he received from his brother Premier in the city. As he became a more trusted fixture of Premier society he was given more responsibilities by both the Prince and Premier Imogen, and he ended up in the role of reliable heavy for the clan and the system. For a short man he could cut an intimidating figure. It only took him publicly boiling the blood of a few Kindred from the inside out before they understood why the Camarillo (and by extension himself) was a force to be respected in the city. In the 1860s he would support the occupying Union army and would spend the 1870s sympathetic to the Radical Republicans, seeing them as the only rational administration, but by this point he had accepted that these concerns were for the humans to deal with, not kindred. He lost ever more interest in human society as his focus became his research and the internal politics of court life in the city, in which he remained a strict absolutist in favor of rational, Camarillo led rule. It was 1922 when he first fell in love seriously. A bright young man, Andre, of the church who he had a whirlwind romance with and embraced in the summer of 1925. They would be close for several decades. Until a drifting away became a final rupture. They both remained in the city, and everyone knew the emotions Henri still had for his Child. Andre slowly fell under the influence of more and more radical sects of Sabbath. A modern man, Andre was never happy with the rigid confines of either kindred life or the Camarillo, and would end up hating the man who embraced him. The summer of 2020 a Sabbath uprising rocked the city of New Orleans. It was a close run thing and several elders were killed, and the Prince seriously injured. Andre was one of the leaders of the uprising, and for that he was staked out in the sun along with all the others involved and anyone even tangentially associated with him. Henri was spared because of his unwavering loyalty to the Camarillo faction, actively fighting off several Sabbath attempts on the Prince's life. For the crime of his association with Andre, he would be allowed to go into exile, an act of lenient clemency from the Prince for the centuries they had spent together. Voluntarily staked through the heart and boxed up for the trip to New Orleans, he was delivered to Toy's court in a casket with nothing but the clothes on his back. There was little engagement from the Premier this far North with the national pyramid, unlike the highly active groups in the South. Fine thought Henri. If he was going to be shipped off into exile, he would make sure he ended up as the clan head in this new court. Things would finally be done his way. SexualityBisexual - Biromantic (Trans/NB inclusive of course). Henri has been burned by his one romantic connection and is it will take a very special person to win his heart. His lust on the other hand is far easier to win over, and Henri has a soft spot for the flesh. He is indifferent to gender when it comes to sexual partners. Instead, he seeks the thrill of sadism, and the worship of a submissive partner. Finding a kindred to worship him is the ultimate fulfillment of these urges. Additional Images(( Rosario White Player: Rummy Tum (Toreador Chronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Idealist Haven: A nice home on Hillside East Demeanor: Visionary Concept: VOZ del CambioGeneration: 13th EXP Spent: 0 / 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○ (Persuasive) Perception:●●○○○Dexterity: ●●●○○Manipulation: ●●●○○ Intelligence:●●○○○Stamina: ●●●○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●○○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●●●○ (Ambush Sense)Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:○○○○○ Athletics: ●○○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:●○○○○Brawl: ○○○○○ Drive: ●●○○○ Finance:●○○○○Dodge: ○○○○○ Etiquette: ●○○○○ Investigation:○○○○○Empathy: ●●●●○ (Insecurities) Firearms: ●●○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ●●●●○ (Real Talk) Melee: ●○○○○ Linguistics:●○○○○ (Spanish)Intimidation: ○○○○○ Performance: ●●●●● (Rapper/Singer) Medicine:○○○○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:○○○○○Streetwise: ●○○○○ Stealth: ○○○○○ Politics:●●○○○Subterfuge: ●●○○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Contacts: ●○○○○Celerity: ●○○○○ Conscience:●●●●○Fame: ●●●●●Presence: ●○○○○ Self-Control:●●○○○Resources: ●●●●○ Sussex: ●○○○○ Courage:●●●●●Retainers: ●○○○○ : ○○○○○ Herd: ●○○○○Humanity: ●●●●● ●●●○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●○○○○ Blood Pool:10/10Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits- Enchanting Voice (2pts)- Eat Food (1 pts)- Iron Will (3 pts)Flaws-Toreador Clan Weakness: Triggered by flames.- Phobia: Bodies of Water (2 pts)- Dark Fate: Trapped Beneath the Depths (5 pts)Freebie Spending Freebie Spending (21 After Merits/Flaws):Performance +2 (4 pts)Empathy + 1 (2 pts)Expression +1 (2 pts)Alertness + 1 (2 pts)Contacts +2 (2 pts)Resources +3 (3 pts) Herd +1 (1 pt)Retainers +1 (1 pt)Humanity +1 (1 pts)Courage +1 (2 pts)Willpower +1 (1 pt)"My blood from all over the place'm a child of the Earth Heritage: the human race Reconciling since birth"Rosario was born in East Oakland, to a Black and Vietnamese father and a Mexican and Native American mother. The importance of his heritage was instilled from a young age, and with it the desire to connect with others. It's hard to find your place as a mixed child, but his answer to that was clear: befriend everybody. It didn't always work out for the best, but it gave him a unique perspective on racial issues in his city and the wider world. And this perspective grew more unique thanks to his mother, claimed the gift of sight ran through the family. His father thought she was just superstitious. But Rosario always had a feeling there was magic in the world. Like most growing up in a hard neighborhood, he learned to act tough and proud, especially when he was not. Those very teachings strained his relationship with a very reserved father, which in turn strained his parents' relationship. When he finally found his passion in rap and song, he used it to channel the difficult and scarily vulnerable emotions he'd been taught to hide for his own safety. And only then did he feel free." Sometimes I don't feel anything, But I feel everybody Apathy says stay in my lane But even I can't stop me"Rosario became a prominent activist during his rise to fame, and his passion both on and off the stage is what drew his Sire's eyes to him. Her name was Ilia Faye, an artist who got in good with him designing his album covers. They got close, of course. Roses can always find a way. And after a whirlwind of months, she embraced him. Then got permission after. Her status and silver tongue got her the things she wanted, he had to admit. Except when it came to keeping Rosario obedient. He was never one to scrape and bow to the people rising buoyant on dark, stagnant waters, and he wasn't going to start after being made into an 'all powerful vampire.' Ilia asked countless times over the next five years if he'd had a death wish. If only she knew the truth of it. The night of his Embrace, he'd learned when his death was coming, and how. It came to him in dreams--nightmares, more like. Whether it was the Sight finally showing itself or a vampire portent, he doesn't know to this day. But even if his family's blessing had become a curse, he could still see a light in it. He knew how he would die; he knew that he would not live forever like most vampires dream of; so he had all the reason in the world to try to change the regime he'd awakened to. And so he'd tried, and failed, to change hearts and minds of ancient vamps who benefitted off the way things were. He became a nuisance and a loud one at that. The final straw was when he spread rumors that he might give a masquerade straining secret performance, only to trick apathetic old vampires into discussion. It did not go over well. And it is only due to Ilia Faye's standing and persuasiveness that he was shipped to Anchorage, not killed. Anchorage, a near death sentence in itself as he was told. And a new start." Apathy is death Take a fuckin' breath Apathy is death Take fuckin' breath!" (Dmitri VasiliPlayer: Hades (TzimisceChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Survivor Haven: Home outside the city Demeanor: Monster Concept: Evolutionary Assistant Generation: 9th EXP Spent: 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●○○○ Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●●○○Manipulation: ●●○○○ Intelligence:●●●●○ (Analytical)Stamina: ●●●○○ Appearance: ●●○○○ Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●○○○Animal Ken: ●○○○○ Academics:●●○○○Athletics: ○○○○○Crafts (Body): ●●●○○ Computer:●○○○○Brawl: ●○○○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Dodge: ●○○○○ Etiquette: ●●○○○ Investigation:○○○○○Empathy: ○○○○○ Firearms: ●○○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●○○○○ Linguistics:●●○○○ (Russian native, English, Latin)Intimidation: ●○○○○ Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:●●●○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:●●●●○ (Clan History)Streetwise: ○○○○○ Stealth: ●○○○○ Politics:○○○○○Subterfuge: ●○○○○ Survival: ●○○○○ Science:●●○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●●●○Animalism: ○○○○○ Conviction:●●●○○Retainers: ●●○○○Sussex: ●○○○○ Instinct:●●●○○Resources: ●○○○○ Vicissitude: ●●●○○ Courage:●●●●○Contacts: ●○○○○Path of Metamorphosis: ●●●●● ●○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●○○○ Blood Pool:14/2pt per turn Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits-Ambidextrous (1pt)-Coldly Logical (1pt)-Endemic Memory (2pt)Flaws-Probationary Sect Member (4pt)-Smell of the Grave (1pt)Freebie Points25pts (20 base +5 from Flaws)Merits (4pts)Sussex 1 (7pts)Willpower +3 (3pts)Alertness +1 (2pts)Drive +1 (2pts)Etiquette +1 (2pts)Occult +1 (2pts)Retainers +2 (2pts)Contacts +1 (1pt)Vicissitude modifications Heart moved to the right and down slightly. Fused ribs with a noticeable bulge over the heart's original position Personality:Alien. Clinical. Curious. DetatchedHistoryBorn in the city of Vladivostok only two years after the launch of Sputnik 1, Ivan was fed steady propaganda of Soviet supremacy over the decadence and weakness of the West. And while geopolitics and the threat of mutual nuclear annihilation never appealed to him, the idea that a people could be transformed and changed within a single generation took root in his mind as he was finishing his early education. Upon graduation from the local high school, Ivan enrolled in a university to major in biology while taking a minor in psychology. His general outlook was that to change the mind you needed to change the body, and vice versa. Unfortunately for Ivan, he was surrounded by lesser minds that could not comprehend and appreciate how revolutionary and history-changing his ideas were. "Unethical" they called his experiments in polite company, "inhumane" if they were being candid. Ivan was expelled two years into his studies and that would have been the end of his opportunities if not for his experiments coming to the attention of a local Titmice. His sire was amused by the mortal's tenuous understanding of the world, and so embraced the man as he was leaving a bar one evening after conducting another experiment in finding out how many liters of vodka a person can drink before their kidney's dissolved into goo. Dymitri took to his new unlike with the fervor of a new convert, quickly adopting the path of his sire while expanding his knowledge of the clan's flesh crafting arts even while the Soviet Union was beginning to crumble. But while he had finally found academic freedom, he chaffed beneath the blood bond his sire had trapped him in. And so when his sire decided that they would move to America to join the Sabbath, he had little choice in the matter despite his mistrust and disdain for what he knew of the sect. Fortunately for Dmitri (though less so for the crew of the ship they were sailing on), nature interceded on his behalf. A thunderstorm grew particularly intense as they were a few miles from arriving in Seattle, causing the ship to run ashore. The crate he was in was tossed overboard, though remained closed. His sire's crate had also survived the landing, but roused by the rough landing, his sire opened the crate enough that the baleful sunlight and was burned almost instantly. The smile that crossed Dmitri's lips as he felt the bond shatter was the first bit of human emotion he had expressed in nearly half a decade. He escaped under the cover of darkness a few hours later as the crate was waiting to be reloaded onto a new ship, and made his way north. He was uncertain where his sire had intended them to meet their Sabbath welcoming committee, only aware that Mexico was their ultimate destination. So he turned would turn north, with plans to cross into Canada to put as much distance between him and the Sabbath as possible. It would be nearly a month before he would have a restful slumber. Eventually he found a man that worked at the University of Washington in their science request department to take as a ghoul that could procure a few precious crates of the Russian soil he needed, with a new shipment set to arrive soon to provide him with a larger buffer to ensure he is well-stocked for any emergencies. With the immediate concern addressed, he ordered the ghoul to request transfer to the city that offered the furthest possible distance from Mexico that he could consider, which was Anchorage. He knew he would not receive a fond welcome due to his lineage despite the fact that he had never been a member of the Sabbath, which is why a second mortal was taken to provide security at his newly acquired haven. He would have preferred a revenant, but one must work with what fodder was available. Presenting himself to the Prince and offering to take the first step of a blood bond to her was his initial plan. He had no desire to find himself back under a full bond, but there were few other bargaining chips he had to use if he wished to avoid an early viewing of a sunrise. Despite all the obstacles that lay before him, if he were still fully capable of feeling emotions, he felt something akin to anticipation. Strife breeds opportunity for enlightenment after all, and the greater the hardship the greater the potential rewards. (Sarah Carter Player: Red Phoenix (VentrueChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Architect Haven: Executive Suite, Ajax Oil Company Hotel Demeanor: Director Concept: True Believer In Making the World a Better Place for Everyone Generation: 13th EXP Spent: 0 / 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○ (Mediator) Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●○○○○ Intelligence:●●●●○ (Problem Solver)Stamina: ●●○○○ Appearance: ●●●●○ (Girl Next Door) Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●○○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:●●○○○ (Humanities)Athletics: ●○○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:●○○○○Brawl: ○○○○○ Drive: ●●○○○ Finance:●●●○○Dodge: ○○○○○ Etiquette: ●●●○○ Investigation:●●●○○Empathy: ●●○○○ Firearms: ○○○○○ Law:●○○○○Expression: ●●●○○ (Conversation) Melee: ○○○○○ Linguistics:●●○○○ (Chinese, Spanish)Intimidation: ○○○○○ Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:○○○○○Leadership: ●●○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:○○○○○Streetwise: ○○○○○ Stealth: ○○○○○ Politics:●●●○○Subterfuge: ○○○○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Contacts: ●●●○○Fortitude: ○○○○○ Conscience:●●●●●Herd: ●●●○○Presence: ●●●○○ Self-Control:●●●●○Resources: ●●●●○ : ○○○○○ Courage:●●●○○Retainers: ●●○○○ : ○○○○○ Humanity: ●●●●● ●●●●○Willpower: ●●●○○ ○○○○○ Blood Pool:10/10Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits-FlawsVentrue Clan Weakness: Blood must be Ethically Sourced (given freely or fairly bargained for if human, free-range and released if animal)Freebie Spending Freebie Spending:Linguistics +2 (4 pts)Contacts +3 (3 pts)Resources +1 (1 pt) Herd +3 (3 pts)Courage +2 (2 pts)Appearance +1 (5 pts)Two Points Held in Reserve Sarah is a SoCal native, her family lives in Pasadena and is pretty solidly in that amorphous realm of comfort known as the upper middle class. Her father was a bigwig in advertising, her mother was a makeup artist for movie studios. Both are still alive. She has an older brother who is constantly about to be kicked out of the Coast Guard, and a younger brother who is following various EDM groups around on tour and sometimes calling his parents for money. Sarah inheritedallof the ambition and composure in her family. A beach bum as a child, Sarah loved the sun, surfing, and swimming. Always sunny and positive, with a loving and well off family, she breezed through most of her younger years without much of a care in the world. Starting from a freshman at her public high school she was active in student body politics. In going around the various cliques and crowds at her public school stumping for votes she got a very real sense of how much better she had it than a lot of kids, and started to become interested in charity and volunteer work. Without really thinking about where it would lead, she organized food drives, donations, and other charitable activities at her school, many of which made the local paper and helped her get a full ride to UCLA, which her parents were extremely happy about. Sarah excelled at UCLA and continued her involvement in student politics and charity work. She made many useful contacts with the best and the brightest over academic debates, passionate volunteer work, and all night parties alike. She was asked to apply for Kappa Tau, a very elite and selective sorority that unbeknownst to Sarah was used by the local Venture. Mostly it was used to find fitting ghouls and blood dolls, but every once in a great while a prospective kindred would appear. Sarah was that prospect. Sarah was embraced in a truly unusual fashion, at the end of an intense corporate-style negotiation. True to the style of her sire, no blood was exchanged until ink was dry. Could her sire have just taken her? Yes, and she made that very clear. But she didn't, partly because she felt that way was antiquated and that civilized kindred didn't embrace without consent, but mostly because it just tickled her so much that a kine had been offered immortality and rather than sign right away or cower in fear, she'd slept on it and come back with terms, in a tabbed binder no less. It was the first time her sire had really laughed since her night with Joan Rivers back in the 70s. The future looked bright, until Sarah's sire was called away back to Europe to handle some business, a phrase Sarah learned meant 'not the sort you can ask about.' For all Sarah knows that's still going on, after all it hasn't been that long in vampire years. But for Sarah quite a lot happened in the few short years since her sire left. She was given a chance to represent the Venture in a sort of vampire No Man's Land in Los Angeles. Suffice to say, Sarah screwed it up spectacularly. The whims of maniacal immortals didn't respond very well to her logic and reason. She ended up overseeing a disaster that descended into anarchy with no sign of the cooperation or mutual prosperity she had looked forward to. Sarah was offered a choice: fall in line with the brutal ways of the kindred and become a cog in the Venture machine, or take a last hope assignment in quasi-exile in Alaska baby-sitting an oil operation that was a front for money laundering. Faced with these choices, Sarah took the long shot where she'd at least have some degree of autonomy. She is desperately hoping to make the most of this assignment and be allowed to return to Los Angeles, and be given another shot at running a small part of things down there. And so Sarah spent a several weeks long trip in a secret little room in the empty hulk of the one oil tanker that Ajax Oil still operated. It took her up to Anchorage with her personal ghoul who also happened to have been her protégé in college, a bubbly and irrepressible blonde who loved playing the secretary to Sarah's executive. Sarah's cover story is that she is the new Chief Finance Officer of Ajax Oil, and her day job is cooking books so that the Venture can hide their slush funds more easily from prying eyes. Once she'd arrived, she was given and bonded a local Venture ghoul, a very capable and hulking ex-Marine who is now her bodyguard. Ajax Oil has not actually produced much oil at all in the last few decades. The skeleton crew (represented by Sarah's Herd) consists of the mechanics and overseers needed to make it look like it might be a working operation some day. The operation makes an excellent place for conducting business away from prying eyes, and Sarah's suite at the on-site hotel is fully customized for a vampire to stay in. It's all relatively nice, but it feels rather like a prison as Sarah knows she can't leave until she receives permission from down south. Still, she remains eager to get involved, and, much more cautiously this time around, try to get everyone working together to show that her way of doing things can work. Even in a frozen wasteland filled with monsters. Inventory:Red Broach! Name: Alex NeVillePlayer: Wolf (MalkavianChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Freak Haven: The Studios (temporarily)Demeanor: Caregiver Concept: Demented Dreamer Generation: 11th EXP Spent: 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○ (Subtle) Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●●●○ (Persuasive} Intelligence:●●○○○Stamina: ●●●○○ Appearance: ●●○○○ Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:○○○○○Athletics: ○○○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:●●○○○Brawl: ●●○○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Dodge: ●●○○○ Etiquette: ○○○○○ Investigation:●○○○○Empathy: ●●○○○ Firearms: ○○○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●●○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○Intimidation: ●●○○○ Performance: ●●○○○ Medicine:○○○○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:●●○○○Streetwise: ●○○○○ Stealth: ●●●○○ Politics:●○○○○Subterfuge: ●●○○○ Survival: ●●○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●○○○Sussex: ○○○○○ Conscience/Conviction:●●●○○Herd: ●○○○○Cementation: ●●●○○ Self-Control/Instinct:●●●●○Resources: ●●○○○ Obfuscate: ●○○○○ Courage:●●●●●Humanity/Path: ●●●●● ●●○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●○○○ Blood Pool:12/1Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits-None Flaws-Twitch (nose and bottom lip petting or rubbing) 1 point -Nightmares (usually vivid horror filled things from...before) 1 point-Fugue State (Moldavian Derangement)Freebies(20 + 2 from flaws = 22)-5 on Stamina-7 on Dementation-4 on Courage-2 on Willpower-2 on Melee-2 on Investigation(0 left)Personality:Quiet, methodical, patient. Withdrawn and filled with worries, none of which can be explained out loud. Soft-spoken and polite in the extreme. Does not frighten easily but once frightened? Will fight to the death to escape whatever caused that particular hardship. Most comfortable around others like themselves; those with mental health issues or no real gender expression. Does not like lies or liars BUT will not hesitate to keep the truth to themselves if it will avoid unpleasantness. History (rev) Once upon a time, Alex was a normal child, surrounded by the love and care of a large extended family. They were born in the summer of '66 and raised in the midst of South Central; before gangs had overrun everything and drugs had become problematic. They grew like a wildflower in the concrete jungle~ enjoying all the things that an inner city kid loves; stick and touch football, roller skating, swimming. Furthermore, they grew strong and free. Happy. It was in the late '70s (1978 to be exact) when they were no more than 12 years of age, that this particular idyll ended. One night, while their family was gathered in prayer before dinner, there was a drive-by. Their mother, father, and baby brother died in a hail of bullets~ bodies splattered and torn by ricochets and direct hits. Police were late in arriving, and ambulances NEVER came. They were left there, surrounded by death and destruction, for so many long minutes that by the time police had arrived? The child was mute and unresponsive. The rest of the family took them in, and they TRIED to be "normal" but it did not work. Too many "freakouts", too many fights. In their second year of college, they were sexually assaulted, badly beaten, and left in the college's main quad for early morning classmen to find. Upon awakening, they attacked the first male they saw~ who just happened to be a police officer. Assault with an attempt to Maim, Battery, and various other charges were the result of this particular action, and so they spent the next four years in a state-run Mental Health facility. By the time Alex had been released from the facility in the fall of 1990? Their grandmother was dead and buried, and their cousins, aunts, and uncles scattered to the winds. The big house had been left to them and so~ they had sold it, putting most of the ready cash into a few low risk CD's, stocks, and bonds. They then opened a savings account with the remainder and left South Central behind with a vague intent to travel. This urge to see new places ended in 1996. How? Well, Alex began to lose time while living in Seattle. There had been whispers and an odd deadlocked person who followed them to their job as a switchboard operator for a privately funded Mental Health facility. They would wake up, from time to time, in different parts of the city, missing clothes, light-headed. What this meant was that when they were off of work, instead of sleeping the day away, they began to investigate. That...was stupid. What followed their intrusion into a world they'd never imagined was pain. Pain and rage and broken bits of reason that didn't hold back insanity by any stretch of the imagination. They spent years trying to understand, but there was no understanding to be had. By the time their training was complete, and their Sire had given voice to an introduction? Alex could no longer recall who they had been and only knew who they were now. A Kook, child of Ken'Davian and eventually, someone who lost themselves to the pretty pictures in their minds' eye during important moments of Seattle's history. They were banished for breach of peace for a rather brutal fugue during Elysium. They don't know what triggered it and had their Sire not been in good standing and had that same personage NOT stopped them before they went too far, True Death would have been the result. Anchorage was a just punishment...and fitting.(( Jordan Alison Player: virtualblueClan: Followers of Set Chronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Monster - Temptress Haven: Condominium in Smuggler's Cove Demeanor: Bon Vivant Concept: Valley Girl Influencer Generation: 8 EXP Spent: 0Physical (Tertiary) Social (Primary) Mental (Secondary)Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○ (Silver-Tongued Devil) Perception:●●○○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●●○○ Intelligence:●●○○○Stamina: ●●○○○ Appearance: ●●●●● (The It Girl) Wits:●●●●○ (Fast on Her Feet)Talents (Primary) Skills (Secondary) Knowledge (Tertiary)Alertness: ●○○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:●●○○○Athletics: ○○○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:○○○○○Brawl: ●○○○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:●●○○○Dodge: ○○○○○ Etiquette: ●●○○○ Investigation:○○○○○Empathy: ●●●○○ Firearms: ○○○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ●●○○○ Melee: ○○○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○Intimidation: ●○○○○ Performance: ●●●○○ Medicine:○○○○○Leadership: ●○○○○ Security: ●○○○○ Occult:○○○○○Streetwise: ●○○○○ Stealth: ●●○○○ Politics:●○○○○Subterfuge: ●●●○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●●●●Obfuscate ○○○○○ Conscience:●●○○○Resources ●●●●○Presence: ●●●○○ Self-Control:●●●○○Herd ●●○○○Serpents: ○○○○○ Courage:●●●●●Retainers ●○○○○ Status (Camarillo) ●○○○○ Fame (Young Adults) ●○○○○ Retainer(Jordan's ghoul Humanity: ●●●●● ○○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ○○○○○ Blood Pool:Maximum=15 (3 per turn)Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits - Total: 5ptsAddictive Blood +3 You don’t just peddle narcotics; through the blessings of the Dark God, you are the perfect drug. Your blood is especially delicious to others, Kindred or kine. Whoever tastes your blood must, during any subsequent scenes that they meet you, drink again or spend a Willpower point to avoid the pangs of craving. These cravings add +2 difficulty to any Mental or Social rolls. Semites with this Merit find it much easier to blood bond an opponent, as once they have tasted the tainted vitae, they will do almost anything to drink it again. Sanctity +2 This Merit is sometimes called the halo effect; everyone considers you pure and innocent, though not necessarily naïve. You have a saint-like quality that is hard to pinpoint but cannot be denied. You are trusted, even if you are not trustworthy. At the Storyteller’s discretion, you tend to receive lesser punishments for wrongdoing, and you are liked by most. Flaws - Total: 4ptsLazy -3 Difficulty rolls for spontaneous Physical actions (including combat, unless it’s part of a planned offensive) increase by one. Twitch -1 Speaks like a valley girl Followers of Set Clan Weakness: Additional damage from sunlight. Sensitive to bright light. Freebie Points24pts to Spend (20 Base + 4 from Flaws)-5pts Merits (Addictive Blood; Sanctity)-10pts Attributes (+2pts in Charisma)-9pts Backgrounds (+4 Resources; +2 Herd; +1 Retainer; +1 Status; +1 Fame)Herstory''Okay, so like, my friends and I, we were hanging out at, you know, the food court in the mall. Now, this was 1985, so it wasn’t like now, where everyone wants to be outside or whatever, and malls were still legit cool. And if you ask me, and nobody ever does, they still totally should be. I mean, think about it—everyone’s all boohoo about the environment, but did you know malls are like climate-controlled environments? Awesome, right? You get to save the environment while shopping for shoes. Win-win.'' Anyway, this girl with Liz Taylor eyes, I mean, they were this wicked violet, she’s sitting at the table across from us. And she’s just staring at us. Not eating or anything, just staring. And not even at us, really, but me. Now, back then, I was totally boy crazy, if you can believe. I mean, in junior high, I’d already lost my virginity to a professor at Northridge and didn’t have clue-one that my thing was actually girls. I think maybe it was, you know, because of the culture at the time. Or maybe it was peer pressure. Being a lesbian was just not what a girl from Engine did.'' So, like, I said, ‘Take a picture. It’ll last longer,’ and everyone cracked up like I was, you know, Elaine Booster. Even the girl smiled, which, though I was being a complete bitch to her, made me wet because, straight as I thought I was, she already had me bent like a pretzel. Which makes sense because that was totally her thing.'' Okay, so the girl, her name was Julia, though I didn’t know that then, she said, ‘Let’s watch Fright Night,’ and I said, ‘Barf me out,’ only I didn’t. I mean, we weren’t even there to watch a movie, and if we were, it wouldn’t have been Fright Night because, like, seriously, do I even need to explain?'' But instead, I was all like, ‘Oh my God, that would be so bitching.’'' Right there, I should have twigged something was wrong. But I totally didn’t. I mean, it’s not like I knew Julia was a Dracula or whatever, though, to be honest, even if someone had dropped me the 411 on her, I don’t think I would have cared. I know I didn’t when we were in the theater, and she showed me her fangs. Instead, I thought it was the bomb.'' It was later, back at her crib, she told me her story. Like how her name was Julia, and she’d been the last queen of Rome, and add add add. It’s not that I didn’t believe her—I mean, she’d Draculaed me in a Regency Six like an hour earlier, but still it was a lot to take in. Especially the part about how she worshiped an I don’t know, I guess you’d call it a mummy. Anyway, it was just a lot to process, and all the while, I was also trying to figure out how I was going to tell my parental units that I was a Dracula now.'' The family thing, though, just sort of worked itself out. It’s not like I was ever even all that simpatico with the whole get married and produce 2.5 kids and sit behind a white picket fence thing anyway. I mean, have you seen my body? Have kids? I don’t think so.'' Years later, when I was passing back through LA, my little brother told me everyone thought I’d run off with a girl—which was true, you know, but just differently. Not thatthatwas the official line. The official line was a boy got me prefers, and me and my fantasy beau ran away to Seattle. And, oh my God, had my little brother grown up into such a hottie. Not that he’s my type, but now that he’s my Enfield, I’Mathis. I mean, he’d totally lick the lint from between my toes, which is just hilarious. I guess no Stanford for you, baby bro.'' I totally know what you’re thinking. ‘Anchorage, Jordan? Like, seriously? I mean, do they even have Macy’s?’ Well, the answer is, ‘No, Heather, they don’t.’ They do have Nordstrom’s Rack, which, if you haven’t been, is totally like the Dollar Tree of luxury department stores. I mean, hello, we already tried-Mart, and it failed. We don’t have to re-invent it just because your buyer overbought shoes made in China.'' So, like, I arrived in June, which is the exact perfect time not to come. I mean, if you're the sort to live for a few months in a cargo container, it’s not bad, but then you’re also probably one of those Brody-to-the-max Count Orlon types. You know who I mean, and don’t pretend you don’t. Willem Dafoe played one in that movie—bald guy with bat ears and spider fingers. I don’t care how many jalapeños are stuffed inside that hot burrito, but 'Thank you, no.''' Anyhow, I had them smuggle me inside a rug to meet the Prince. And, yeah, I know, there are literally like a hundred other ways I could have done it, but sincerely, have you ever even heard of Cleopatra? I mean, read a book or turn on the History channel sometime when they’re not talking about Big Foot or the Curse of Oak Island. Try to educate yourself and don’t make your limitations mine.'' So I told her, 'Look, I’m not going to like to lie or whatever. My parental units were Christians on Easter and Christmas—meaning they worshiped a man in a bunny suit and a fat elf—so I'm not, you know, spanning over organized religion. I’m more of a find your inner goddess, kind of girl. And if that means someone’s head is seeking that elusive bitch between my thighs, well, that’s between them and my orgasm. Holy holy holy. Praise Set.'''' It’s like, if someone sincerely wants to hear about dog-headed Jesus, I’m required by the company to, you know, give them the pamphlet and the tour—next month I’m even handing out those plastic collars that help you not get fleas. Seriously. They’re an actual thing. Check outPetcoorWalmartor whatever if you don’t believe me.'' Anyway, Julia, that little whore-bitch, sold me on Anchorage like it was, you know, the steak knives from Glengarry Glen Ross—not the Cadillac, but hey, I wasn’t being let go either. Now I have to wonder. I mean, why send a girl such atmosphere? Like, does Anchorage even have a place that does Mani-pedis? This is all so lame.’’(( Sandalwood Player: Hope Fox (TremereChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Scientist Haven: Student dormitory Demeanor: Celebrant Concept: Fashion scholar Generation: 10th EXP Spent: 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●○○ Perception (Colors):●●●●○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●○○○ Intelligence (Subject Authority):●●●●○Stamina: ●●○○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●○○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●●○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics (Fashion):●●●○○Athletics: ○○○○○Crafts (Candles): ●●●○○ Computer:●○○○○Awareness: ●●○○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Brawl: ○○○○○ Etiquette: ●●○○○ Investigation:●●○○○Empathy: ●●○○○ Firearms: ○○○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Larceny: ○○○○○ Medicine:○○○○○Intimidation: ●○○○○ Melee: ○○○○○ Occult:●●●○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Performance (Dance): ●○○○○ Politics:●●○○○Streetwise: ○○○○○ Stealth: ○○○○○ Science (Chemistry):●●●○○Subterfuge: ●○○○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Technology:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Fame: ●○○○○Sussex: ●○○○○ Conscience:●●●○○Generation: ●●●○○Dominate: ●○○○○ Self-Control:●●●○○Herd: ●○○○○ Dramaturgy: ●○○○○ Courage:●●●●○Influence: ●○○○○Resources: ●●●●○Retainers: ●○○○○Status: ●○○○○Humanity: ●●●●● ●○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●○○○ Blood Pool:13Health:Merits camp; FlawsMeritsAcute Sense (Sight) 1ptConcentration 1ptLanguage (Latin) 1ptFormer Ghoul 1ptFlawsRitualsSense the Mystical (Level 1, Rites of Blood p. 147)Backgrounds Fame: Sandalwood has a little bit of online fame for her YouTube tutorials on candle-making, fashion and cosmetics. Generation: Sandalwood has only been Kindred for ten years, but her sire was the Regent of Kent Chantey, a Kindred of substantial age and blood. Herd, Influence, Retainers: Sandalwood arrived in Anchorage during the most recent summer. She stayed in a Studio for just a few nights before Magister Vega helped her secure student accommodation that was (relatively) luxurious, secure and isolated from the sun. A few nights after that, she had identified and fouled her new roommate, a sophomore as brilliant as she was horny, who has brought a never-ending stream of suitors to their room for Sandalwood's dining pleasure. In the short summer nights, she has been maneuvering carefully to establish a foothold in the university's student life and staff circles. Resources: Sandalwood's wealthy industrialist parents have bestowed upon her a sizeable trust fund. Status: For all that Sandalwood's time in Kent was not especially successful, she is an established neonate in the Camarillo, with no real marks of shame against her name - at least, nothing that her sire's stature doesn't balance out. Freebie point allocation Ability: Computer 1 (2 points)Ability: Drive 1 (2 points)Ability: Performance 1 (2 points)Background: Generation 3 (3 points)Background: Resources 4 (4 points)Willpower 5, 6, 7 (3 points)Merits (4 points)Eleanor Sanderson could have done almost anything she wanted with her life. Blessed with a keen mind, a strong will, good looks and rich parents, the world was her oyster, offering her opportunities that others would have killed for. With so many options, enrolling in a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Kent State University might have been seen as settling for an easy path. But fashion was Eleanor's passion, and she threw herself into her studies with fervor. Many staff members took note of her drive and intellect, but none more than long-tenured chemistry professor Nathan Brinker, who scooped her up after graduation for a unique internship opportunity - five years as a ghoul in the chantey of which he was Regent, and then the Embrace. It was in her time as a ghoul that she earned the nickname "Sandalwood", for her obsession with scented candles, which actually turned out to be a blessing in a clan that spends so much on candles. Sandalwood has studied diligently as all Premier must, and progressed her understanding of Dramaturgy as well as her other disciplines and the lore of the mundane and magical worlds that stand any dramaturge in good stead. After ten years as an apprentice, she has reached the fourth circle of mysteries, and further study is sure to push her to higher circles. Instead, it has been Sandalwood's social ambitions within the Camarillo that has caused problems for her sire. She had enjoyed pre-eminent social status as a mortal, always the center of attention in her circles of friends, but the ancient stagnation of the Kent court was a social arena for which she was woefully unprepared. At first her missteps and overreach was endearing and easily brushed aside, but when she tried to square off against Kent's Grand Harpy over the decor of the upcoming court, Regent Brinker knew that it was time to send his child somewhere else. Somewhere she could continue her studies, and keep developing her social skills - which were good, but not goodenoughfor her current court. Somewhere he could talk the Grand Harpy into seeing as a punishment. Somewhere... like Anchorage. Name: Rhiannon Martel Player: Geek let (GangrelChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Rebel Haven: Trailer hidden away at the edge of Klutz Lake campgrounds Demeanor: Survivor Concept: Wrong Place at the Wrong Time Generation: 13th EXP Spent: 0 / 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○ (Appeasing) Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●●●○(Compelling) Intelligence:●●○○○ Stamina: ●●●○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●●○○Animal Ken: ●●●○○ Academics:○○○○○ Athletics: ●●○○○Crafts: ●●○○○ Computer:●●○○○Brawl: ●●○○○ Drive: ○○○○○ Finance:●○○○○Dodge: ●○○○○ Etiquette: ○○○○○ Investigation:○○○○○Empathy: ○○○○○ Firearms: ●●○○○ Law:○○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●○○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○ Intimidation: ○○○○○ Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:●●○○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:○○○○○Streetwise: ○○○○○ Stealth: ●●○○○ Politics:○○○○○Subterfuge: ●●○○○ Survival: ●●●●○ (Foraging) Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Herd: ●●●○○(Sled Dogs)Animalism: ●●○○○ Conscience:●●○○○Retainer: ●○○○○(Church State Park ranger)Fortitude: ○○○○○ Self-Control:●●●●○Resources: ●●○○○ Protean: ●○○○○ Courage:●●●●○Humanity: ●●●●● ●○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●○○○○ Blood Pool:10/10Health:Merits camp; FlawsMeritsAnimal Affinity (Dogs) (1pt) - All difficulties dealing with the associated animal are reduced by 2 (source: Dirty Secrets of the Black Hand)Light Sleeper (2pt) - Awake instantly at any sign of trouble or danger with no penalty (source: Codebook)Efficient Digestion (3pt) - Draw more nourishment from blood, gain an extra BP for every 2 consumed (source: Codebook)Flaws Repulsed by Garlic (1pt) - must make WP roll not to be driven from room by smell of garlic (source: Codebook)Gang rel Clan Weakness: Every frenzy adds one animal feature and reduces a Social Attribute by 1 (currently: none)Freebie Spending Freebie Spending:Flaws: +1Merits: -6Survival 3->4: -2Herd 2->3: -1Willpower 4->6: -2Manipulation 3->4: -5Stamina 2->3: -5Rhiannon, or Hi as most knew her, was born in the town of Meadow Lakes Alaska, a little north of Anchorage. If they had been anywhere else in the country, her parents would have been described as the "outdoorsy" type, but in Alaska, especially with its harsh winters, such skills were all but a necessity. These skills were passed onto their children, hoping that they would continue on the family legacy. Hi had other ideas, especially as teenage rebellion set in. She wanted to get away from it all, to move into the big city and have a life of her own. And by big city, she wanted more than the nearby capital, she wanted to head south, to Seattle or Portland, or perhaps even Los Angeles. But that was all a pipe dream, as she was stuck out in the middle of nowhere, as she so claimed. While she felt all but trapped in her home during the winters, as soon as she was old enough, her parents put her to work during the summer. They owned a small ski/snowboard/outdoor equipment shop, which saw most of its business from nearby tourists, and Hi was often stuck behind the cash register. The store itself was just barely able to make ends meet, as it was more of a passion project for her parents than anything else, but Hi was using what little she made to pay for community college, in hopes that one day she could possibly earn a scholarship to something better so she could get away. One night would change her life forever. Her parents were out celebrating their anniversary, while Hi was left alone to close down the shop. She was just about to leave when the phone rang for a call she would never forget. An officer informed her that both her mother and father had perished in a hit-and-run accident. The next few weeks were a blur, as police and lawyers alike descended upon her like buzzards. By the end of it, somehow the shop had been bought out from under her despite the contents of the will left, and Hi was left on her own, with nothing left but her parent's trailer and a wad of cash. Not knowing what else to do, she headed to a bar in order to get blackout drunk and drown her sorrows. She achieved the blackout part, but when she awoke, she found herself alone in the woods, with a strange hunger consuming her. Most people would probably have succumbed to the hunger, let it fuel them until satisfied, but everything Hi had learned as a child helped her keep her head and wits about her. Throughout the night she searched, looking for something to quench the thirst, but nothing worked, at least not until she was able to trap and subdue a lone wolf, and the beast within her came forth to drain it dry. It was then that a figure emerged from the shadows to explain everything that had happened. There was no coincidence in what happened to her family, they were simply collateral damage in the larger machinations of those truly in power, and if she played her cards right, she could find out just who pulled the strings an enact revenge. For now though, her best bet was to lie low, and prove herself useful. While many of the movers and shakers of the night were new to the harshness of Alaska, she was not. Her survival instincts and knowledge of the land meant she could serve as a guide, for the right price, of course. Though she had trust issues among the other kindred still, so she went searching among the mortal world, calling upon an old family friend, a local park ranger, to help get her set up with some lodging and supplies.(( (Corbin Grayson Player: TheWanderingMuse (City GangrelChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Manipulator Haven: ? ? ? Demeanor: Thrill-Seeker Concept: Manipulator in the shadows Generation: 10th EXP Spent: 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●○○○ Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●●○○Manipulation: ●●●●● (Persuasive} Intelligence:●●○○○Stamina: ●●○○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●●●○ (Fine Details)Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:○○○○○Athletics: ●●○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:○○○○○Brawl: ●○○○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Dodge: ●●○○○ Etiquette: ○○○○○ Investigation:●●○○○Empathy: ○○○○○ Firearms: ●●○○○ Law:●○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●○○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○Intimidation: ●●○○○ Performance: ●●○○○ Medicine:●○○○○Leadership: ●○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:●○○○○Streetwise: ●○○○○ Stealth: ●●○○○ Politics:○○○○○Subterfuge: ●○○○○ Survival: ●○○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●●○○Celerity: ●○○○○ Conscience/Conviction:●●○○○Resources: ●●○○○Obfuscate: ●○○○○ Self-Control/Instinct:●●●●○ Protean: ●●○○○ Courage:●●●●○Humanity/Path: ●●●●● ●○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●○○○ Blood Pool:13/13Health:Merits camp; FlawsMeritsAcute Sense (hearing) [1pt] - Corbin has grown particular aware of his surroundings at all times and has honed his hearing to help ensure his safety and survival. Enchanting Voice [2pt] - Growing up, Corbin has mastered the art of talking people into carrying out his will, sometimes even when it contradicts their own. His voice is often times more persuasive than his targets can handle. Coldly Logical [1pt] - Corbin has distanced himself from feelings and emotions over the years to the point where he finds it incredibly easy to push such things aside and analyze situations without his mind being clouded by unnecessary things. Former Ghoul [1pt] - Prior to being embraced, Corbin served as a ghoul to Jessica Banes for almost three years. FlawsDark Secret [1pt] - While he's unsure of anyone in Anchorage knows, or even cares about, the Prince of Kansas City, Missouri, the fact remains he was loosely involved in a failed plot to overthrow the Prince and Corbin's sire and her associates were put to death when it was discovered. It's unclear if the Prince even know of Corbin, or if there's any kind of hunt going on for him, but needless to say he won't be travelling back to Kansas City anytime soon. New Arrival [1pt] - Corbin arrived in Anchorage with nothing but the name of a former associate of his sire and an old map of the city. Freebies20 Staring Points [20]-5 for Merits [15]+2 for Flaws [17]-5 for 1 dot DEX [12]-2 for 1 dot Alertness [10]-7 for 1 dot in Protean [3]-3 for 3 dots in Willpower (0 left)Personality:A lifetime of abuse and neglect has forged Corbin into a cold and calculating young man. He seldom trusts anyone, yet he is incredible adept at finding ways to influence and control people around him. For those unfamiliar with his ulterior motives, Corbin seems to be a shy but friendly man who values the people around him and would do anything to build a bond with them. The unfortunate truth of that, however, is he's normally building those bonds to abuse and manipulate in the future. There are very few people that can truly count on Corbin to look out for their own well-being too. He's as cunning and sly as they come with a youthful and innocent appearance and a heartbreaking life story that usually helps win over even the most stubborn of people. Appearance:Corbin has blue eyes and short-cropped hair that is dark brow. He stands 5'10" and has the muscular physique of an athlete. Corbin is handsome by most accounts and has a very chiseled and animalistic allure about him that usually attracts a second glance. He usually appears rather casual wearing a dark jacket over a T-shirt, jeans, and boots, unless he has the need to blend in with others. He can clean up nicely when he needs to. History "Listen to this bullshit," Vince Marlow, Sheriff of Kansas City, said to his fouled companion as he read from the journal they had confiscated recently.- Excerpt from the Journal of Jessica Banes Quoted think back to that night often; the night one of the Prince's lackeys drew a little too close and in turn reminded me of my own humanity and how much of it I had lost over the years. He followed me without being noticed, or so he thought, deep into the woods that night. Deeper and deeper I lured him, careful to be far from any prying eyes in the city. The man barely knew what happened when I turned and engaged him, systematically tearing him apart in the fight that ensued. He was stronger than I realized, and it took far more than I thought for me to destroy him. Ultimately he fell, however, but I was past the point of control. The need for blood, the urge to survive, it overwhelmed me and I stalked through the woods to sate my desire. I came to a nearby campsite and descended on it without hesitation killed two before I was halted in my tracks. It was the boy that stopped me. As I looked over from the shadows and let the lifeless corpse of his mother drop to the ground I saw those eyes. Pale blue. Innocent. The confused and frightened, wide-eyed stare of a child no more than ten. It was the same look my son had given me lifetimes ago. The boy's look stunned me, more than anything had in decades, and after just standing and staring at each other for what seemed an eternity: I fled. Fled and cried for what I had done and what I had become. Cried at the thought of how I had failed my son all those years ago and couldn't save him. Years passed after that, yet I still watched the boy, night after night as he struggled in the woods to live off the land. At first when he ran away from the orphanage in the city I feared the worst and was wondering if I should intervene somehow. I decide against it but continue to watch him and my heart breaks. One lapse in resistance and I destroyed a young man's whole world. My inability to control my base instincts have left this poor one empty, hallow, and alone. I can never forgive myself for what I have done. As I continue to watch him, the boy named Corbin; I can't help be felt responsible. I am the reason this has happened. I cannot simply move on and forget this. A monster would but I am no monster. I fight every day to prove it. Beyond that, this young man has begun to show true promise. His spirit is strong, and his resourcefulness is commendable. As much as I hate to think about it, he could perhaps become a useful tool to have in my war against the Prince. I will continue to watch and wait... but perhaps I can return some of which I have taken from him. Perhaps bring him in to a new family and gain a useful ally as well." Son of a bitch," the Sheriff scoffed as he regarded the words, "I wonder if our little fugitive has any idea the bitch that brought him into our world and was harboring him was the same one that tore his family apart," he added, shaking his head a bit. A true piece of work, that woman was. Slaughtering that whole kid's family and then using him like her own personal pawn in her half-assed attempt to take down the Prince. He admired her style though: the best kind of person to trust was someone that had no one else to turn to. He sighed and tossed the flimsy old journal onto the table with a groan of annoyance and grabbed his notepad. "So basically we have a kid with no ties at all here aside from her. He ran away from the orphanage at fourteen, no close friends or anything there. He bounced back and forth between the woods and living among the homeless for another few years but never got overly close to any of them. And then this bitch brings him under her wing and sets him up hiding in crack houses and drug dens on the outskirts of the city, again a host of people with nothing helpful to offer on him." The Prince was clear, the sire and her child were to die. But he was simply out of leads." So what do we do?" His companion asked him softly. The Sheriff sat quietly in thought for a moment then let out another growl of frustration, "Call in the rest of the boys. Let's get all local guys in on this but not mention anything to anyone else." he said, making it clear he only meant the ghouls and mortals loyal to him. "We'll do one big pass on the city and turn over everything and see what we can find. If he's here... we'll find him."" Get them each a copy of the file," he said, tossing the entire packet he had created on the Gang rel pup onto the table between them. "I want this asshole found... tonight."(later... Corbin sat quietly in the boxcar on the train he was stowing away on as he watched his home fade into the distance as the train pulled out of the station. He would miss it, but it was the only way he could be sure he'd be safe. Each night he wondered if that would be the night the Sheriff of Kansas City tracked him down and finished what he started. Even as far away as he was when in Maine he still couldn't feel comfortable. He had to keep moving and stay ahead of his pursuers. Jessica, his sire, had only mentioned one other person to him before that she trusted outside of Kansas City… someone who resided in Anchorage. He was running out of places to run, and so he thought that would be as good a place as any. Slowly he looked away and reached into his small duffle bag that now carried everything he owned in this world. Inside he found the smooth leather cover of the journal he purchased at a bookstore near the port. Jessica had always encouraged him to keep one, to have something to look back on and to help retain a shred of his humanity. She had always said it was so easy to lose sight of what it meant to be human. Perhaps she was right. Opening the journal he stared down at the empty first page and pulled out a pen. He cleared his mind and listened to nothing but the soft, repetitive sounds of the train chugging along. He found it soothing, and it allowed him to focus on nothing but the task before him. Furthermore, he knew he had plenty of time before he got all the way to Alaska, so he decided to start from the beginning. Excerpts from Corbin Grayson's Journal The First Few Months at the Orphanage Even to this day I remember how the house felt the last night I slept there; the oppressive emptiness of it. I remember wanting to just wake up from the horrible nightmare. To just wake up and head into the kitchen to find my mother cooking breakfast on another plain, ordinary Saturday morning. My dad would be up, nursing another of his hangovers, and he'd yell at me about how I was lazy and useless, even though I was only ten. I used to hate when he did that, yet at that point I would have given anything in the world to hear it just one last time. The house felt barren after the incident… after… my parents were killed, I remember. I felt like there was nothing left for me there; nothing but painful memories and loneliness. The police sent someone the next day to take me to my next home in the city nearby, a place where a lot of kids like me stayed and that it would be full of friends. Even then I doubted it, not aware of how terrible it would be. The place they sent me to was the HALO Foundation Orphanage, a sad, rundown prison of a place that would serve as my source of endless torment for the next four years. I remember the long, decaying corridors of the dorms, the stale lingering scent of rot that permeated the entire building, and the sick, sadistic staff that oversaw it all. Even to this day I don't think I could come up with a more sad and horrible place for a child. The weeks dragged into months and I would just spend my time alone in my room ignoring all the kids who I was placed with. I made the mistake of telling them about the night my parents were killed once and the teasing and ridicule began almost instantly. Even the staff would call me a freak and a liar whenever I would try to tell them what I saw. It was perhaps the first time I realized the importance of fitting in or, at the very least, pretending to. It was a hell of a way for a kid to start to learn his place in the world. It didn't take long to adapt. I realized no one would believe me, so I never uttered another word about that night again. It was around that time that I also began to figure out the game of that place and how to survive it. I learned which staff members to smile at, which to pretend to confide in, and which to act like I was afraid of (some of them had really gotten off on this.) I learned how to make myself shrink into the background and keep clear of trouble, and when to drop an encouraging word to get someone else to take the fall, and especially to make myself scarce when some of the more perverse staff made late-night visits to the children's ward. Furthermore, I didn't always get ignored, but I was beaten and tormented significantly less than most children which, for me, was a win. Furthermore, I was too busy trying to survive and not realizing just what a fucked up childhood I was having in the process. It's funny how even to this day some things don't change. Survival always seems to consume me. Anyhow, another of the skills I worked on at that age was getting the other kids in trouble or pushing them to do things they shouldn't. The whole building was full of people, kids and staff alike, who had tormented me in one way or another over the years and I paid them back, carefully choosing how and when. I vividly remember one kid I really focused on and how I almost got him to kill himself without even realizing it. Matthew was his name and he was a year younger than I had been but almost twice my size. He had beaten me up a few times during my first week at the orphanage and I bid my time and waited for the perfect opportunity. I got close with him, became a 'friend', even sharing whatever I'd bring back on the nights I snuck out to escape for short periods of time and see the city. He loved chocolate, and I think he was fond of having found what he thought was a friend too, and I provided both regularly. Over the course of a month I had convinced him that if he wanted to get in with the older kids, something he was always talking about, he needed to act like them. One of their biggest pastimes they had was sneaking away and getting high when they could. I convinced him that pouring a little bit of bleach into his soda and drinking it would give him the same high, just like them, and when they started to notice they'd realize how cool he was at that he was one of them. The idiot was eager to believe me, and blinded by our youth, and so he did it. For weeks, I would urge him poison himself a little at a time and find ways to help him hide it. I assured him that the blood he was coughing up was a normal part of the process and that he shouldn't tell any of the staff or else they'd know what he was doing, and the older kids would never accept him. The night he rode away in the ambulance I was all smiles, watching from the small window of my room as they loaded him into the back. There was something intoxicating about gaining his trust, using his own ambitions against him, and giving him the help he needed to destroy himself. Even as a kid of ten I felt the power that gave me. I might not have understood all the nuances of it at the time, but I was becoming quite the manipulator and I didn't have much of a conscience to get in the way. Knowing I could have that effect on someone was addictive for me and made my head swim. I knew it was wrong in a way, but who gave a shit? People had given up and abused me all my life. All I was doing was giving it back. Working My Way Back Home Until I was fourteen I lived in that forsaken shithole of an orphanage. I knew every resident and staff member by name and what buttons to push with most of them. I had gained a reputation with the kids as well and getting picked on in my later years was pretty rare. The staff still did their thing and I never fully escaped the beatings, punishments, or occasional indecencies, but they knew to keep an eye on me now. One even began taking extra notice of me; a man, who I hadn't known at the time was a ghoul for my eventual sire. He had been placed there to keep tabs on the children, a mainstay of the Venture Prince's diet it seemed, but he also watched me for other reasons. A few weeks past my fourteenth birthday, which passed without notice like any other day at the orphanage, I began to yearn to be away from the place. I knew the things we faced daily weren't normal and even the games I played were no longer enough to drown out how miserable I was. Late that night, without a word to anyone, I snuck out and headed back to where I used to live. My childhood house was boarded up and half-destroyed and to this day I never found out what happened to it after that last visit. Not being deterred, I proceeded into the woods behind it and settled into the campsite my family and I had always used. My parents had little money growing up so one of the things we did was go camping in the woods in out beyond our yard. We lived close to a huge stretch of forest and my father grew up in the backwoods of a small Florida town, so he was raised as a bit of a hunter and a woodsman. From the time I turned eight he started teaching me the things his father did when he was little. It was the closest thing we had to bonding. As I look back I realized just how much I hated him for being a drunk and a loser in almost every sense of the word. From barely keeping our family fed and clothed to being unable to hold a job for longer than a few weeks, he was a useless piece of shit. If nothing else I hoped I never turned out to be like that pathetic man who half raised me. Everyone walked all over him and if he hadn't been killed that night he surely would have destroyed the family and ended up dead one way or another anyhow. Fuck him. But without my family and the house we clung to, I didn't realize how vulnerable I was. One night, shortly after getting settled at the campsite, I was ripped from sleep by a booted foot kicking me in the face. I remember opening my eyes and wiping my hand across my nose, feeling the stream of blood pouring from it. A group of kids just a few years older than me were going through everything I owned, helping themselves to the few things I'd collected and discarding everything else haphazardly around the forest floor while taking turns beating me. And there I was... helpless again. The feeling of being a complete slave to things I could never control. That feeling is the worst thing in the world I have ever experienced and nothing before seemed as horrible as this time was. I swore then that if I lived I would do anything and everything to never be that vulnerable again. Once they were satisfied they had everything of value, all four of them surrounded me and began the final beating. A blur of kicks and punches one even using a thick branch he’d picked up off the ground beside me. I remember laying there defenseless as they beat away without mercy. I don't know how long it lasted, but it only took a handful of minutes until I lost consciousness. As my mind spiraled into blackness all I could think about was how unfair the world was and how everyone in it was out to ruin me. I was sure I would die. Imagine my surprise when I actually woke up sometime later. I'm not sure how long, they stole my father's watch that I usually wore, but judging by the night sky I had guessed it was at least a few hours. As I came to I saw her sitting there on a thick fallen tree trunk; the woman I would come to know as Jessica Banes. I rolled a bit to try to sit up, and my body erupted in pain. I grimaced until it passed and then looked down at my mangled body. Furthermore, I could tell my nose was broken without even touching it and I could feel bone grinding against bone when I talked in my jaw. My clothes were all torn and covered with blood and I could see my arm, which had been tied in a makeshift splint, had been broken as well. The bone was jutting out at an irregular angle under the skin. I gazed up at Jessica helplessly, and she regarded me with a look I was very unfamiliar with; one of compassion. She came to me and sat by my side, her soft cold lips kissing my forehead before she looked me directly in the eyes again. To this night I'll never forget the words she said to me. "I need you to trust me, Corbin. Do you trust me?" I had nothing left to lose, nothing she could take from me or do to me that hadn’t already been done, so I nodded and watched numbly aware of what was going on. As I think back, I'm pretty sure I had a concussion at the time. Perhaps that would help explain why I did what she asked next. She took my camping knife and ran it across the length of her wrist, drawing a thin strip of crimson. She then pushed her wound to my mouth and told me to drink…and I did. I remember being scared at first and unsure of what I was doing and why, but as more and more of her sweet blood touched my tongue I grew more confident. I remember drinking for a while until a wave of nausea hit me and I blacked out again. Post Embrace, A New Mean time passed I learned what I was and began to embrace my new life. Just passing eighteen and serving as a ghoul to a vampire I found myself feeling much less vulnerable on the streets, in the woods and in the slums where I ended up. Jessica had urged me to move closer to her in the city, and it landed me in one of the shadiest and rundown neighborhoods in the entire state. I didn't see her much, and rarely had her blood to rely on with any regularity, but I still managed. The concealment those slums provided was perfect for what I was becoming. With endless rows of dilapidated housing and the streets clogged with homeless vagrants, street-tough gang members, and drug addicts of all shapes and sizes it was a fitting place to blend into the background and not be noticed. Besides, no one wanted to go into this shit-ridden section of town without a good reason... and that was one of the things I loved about it. I was a small fish in a pond no one cared to clean, and I was left alone to do almost anything I pleased. I found the similarities of those slums and the orphanage I had abandoned to be striking. The players were different, the rules varied, but the game was essentially the same. I twisted the people around me for my own amusement and I got even better at it. Gang wars were initiated, the homeless would fight and kill each other on my whim, and curious high-school girls from the fancier sides of the city would get drawn into my web and become drug-riddled prostitutes with the proper guidance. I dabbled in all areas and relished each deliciously destructive chain of events I set in motion. It wasn't a feeling of true power, I didn't walk among them and have them recognize me as someone who was in charge, but I was the one behind the scenes guiding their lives to some degree. My experiments with them overwhelmed me at times. I would eagerly watch from the shadows and see how one well-placed drop of a hint to one person would ripple across the surface here in our little pond and set off other events. The unpredictability of some would just add another level of difficulty to the game and another level of satisfaction when the goal was met. Sure, there were still major players in the area who I knew better than to try to mess with. But I stayed away from them and their affairs and just concentrated with the smaller scale things; the people no one really cared about or would miss, or the people who had already given up and were just looking for some direction to channel their forfeited lives. Jessica would often visit me and admire the webs I wove and began to groom me to help in her war with the Prince. She had a very elaborate plan and, as good as I was, she was easily ten steps ahead. I was still young, you see, and while I worked with a game board using days and weeks as intervals she was playing in a whole different league where her plots had years and decades to unfold. As the time drew closer for her plan to begin to churn into motion she embraced me. I Don’t Really Miss the Days When I was a normal kid I thought the little bit of power I had carved out in the orphanage was incredible. Then when I became a ghoul and stepped on to the slightly larger stage of the slums I thought I could never feel more dominant; I thought I could never feel less vulnerable to the shit-filled hateful world I had lived. But then I was embraced. The new clarity it brought to things was more than I had ever imagined. The pangs of hunger, the exhaustion from days spent going about meaningless tasks, the need for rest and sleep; they were all stripped away in one moment of blood-filled bliss. Even at the height of my schemes before I was taken, I was still a fragile, helpless boy clinging to shadows. But now I was so much more. Jessica taught me everything in the beginning: how to hunt, how to control my instincts, how to call our age-old powers from the blood that flowed in my veins. At times, I think I didn't pick it up as fast as she hoped or, maybe it was just that she knew she was running out of time for her schemes, but whatever the case she still drove me hard to learn. After she had shown me the ropes and laid out my part in her plans she left me alone for months on my own while she set things in motion. During that time I was like a kid in a candy store. Life had a new meaning to me and even the mundane events of this city of broken people provided me with endless arrays of discoveries. I spread out and tested my limits; I often had multiple things working at once, and I practiced my skills of bringing them all together in the end. It's during this time I first became hooked on another addiction that I carry to this day. I had found that a particular blood called to me, one that seemed so much more satisfying than normal blood. It was the blood of the fallen people in the slums; the drug-tainted, putrid blood in their veins was more appealing to me than any meal from a fine restaurant could ever come close to when I was mortal. Each new addict I fed on, each new drug I discovered inside them, was another deliciously unique flavor that hit all different chords in my pallet. The tangy bitterness of a heroin users' blood, the muted and relaxing euphoria of the former athlete who lived off of painkillers, and the countless others on any number of drugs all came together to provide me with one of the most satisfying buffets I had ever known. I would crave the taste of tainted blood without fail and still do. I can always manage to drink bland blood when I have to, it wasn't as if I didn't draw the same sustenance from it, however it left me feeling like I had wasted an opportunity for indulgence. Sure, a granola bar would sate an appetite, but a medium-rare T-bone steak tasted so much better. Abandoning Homes Is Becoming A Hobby To this day I still don't know what went wrong. One moment I was feeding from a regular of mine, Cindy, a barely eighteen runaway who was living with me, and the next people from all around the neighborhood were rushing into my haven to tell me what was going down. What I did piece together was the Prince had caught wind of Jessica's plans and had her executed. Apparently the Sheriff had managed to connect the dots and took her out, and he did it before she could warn anyone. Reports had started to flood in to me from all around the city as the lesser players linked to Jessica were also turning up dead. Fires raged in the city, SWAT teams raided homes, and even an FBI Task Force descended on the city and rounded up suspects on gang-related charges. I wasn't sure how deep the breech went, but I was smart enough to not wait and find out. I packed what little I had, it was my nature now to simply not grow too attached to anywhere or anything I couldn't fit in a suitcase, and I abandoned yet another home. I kept my cell only long enough to realize everyone I knew who was involved with Jessica wasn't answering. Dead or in hiding themselves I'll never know. I tossed my phone into a river and had one of my lackeys drive me out of the city. Once again I found myself feeling vulnerable as we drove across the country and I curled up in motel bathtubs and closets to escape the sun as we made our escape. After three days of driving we made it to Maine and I dismissed the driver. I bled him dry, put him into his truck, and let it slowly roll into one of the lakes on a back road that we had stopped to rest on. I'm not one to be sentimental or owe a debt; especially not to some gangster junkie who would most likely rush back and sell me out for the price of another hit of whatever he could get. Like all tools eventually do, he outgrew his purpose and was ready to be discarded. It's as simple as that. When I arrived later that night I discovered Kansas City had no monopoly and rundown neighborhoods and neglected slums. It didn't take me long at all to settle into a similar setup in a place called Lewiston, Maine. I claimed a home in what I thought was a good setup considering the area. It was a broken down shell of a recreation center that had been long abandoned and destroyed by age, weather, and the locals. I spent the entire first night there just dragging garbage out of the main rooms and into the storage rooms in the back. It wasn't completely clean, but at least it had been a good start. I opened up the place to local kids and some of the gangs, letting them hang around inside and started laying the foundation for another herd. Finding the contacts I needed to start the drug supply flowing into the place wasn't a major task at all. I had a number of dealers fighting for my business, and once they came through and the word got out the people flocked to the little oasis in a desert of filth. My new flock began to take shape and I settled in the city but no matter how many precautions I took, no matter how many fouled servants I set around the place, I still didn't feel at ease. I knew Kansas City was a long ways away, and that a Prince of such a small city probably didn't have all that much pull, but there were too many things left to chance. Up to this point I had always been in control, always pulling the strings and guiding the surrounding hands to some extent and staying off anyone else's radar, but now I was at the mercy of an invisible hand. Try as I might, I couldn't shake the feeling. Night after night I'd add another layer of protection or another set of watchful eyes to guard me during the day, but it did little to quell my paranoia. I resigned myself to the fact that I could never be at rest while within the reach of the Prince and Sheriff of Kansas City. I was there for less than a month before I decided Maine was never going to be a place I felt comfortable. Furthermore, I needed someone, an ally, and I only had one name left… Jessica had mentioned a name from Anchorage, a Nosferatu named Winter, and it where I would seek them out; it truly is my last hope. So, in a tradition I was now unfortunately becoming very well versed in, I packed up my things and slipped away into the night boarding the first westbound train I could find. I would find the one Jessica mentioned and try to get back in the good graces of a Prince, try to distance myself from the failed rebellion of my sire, and go back to carving a life out in the shadows once more. (Fiona Crowley Player: Slim (GangrelChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Rebel Haven: Demeanor: Bravo Concept: Militant Undead Environmentalist Generation: 8th EXP Spent: 0 / 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●●○○Charisma: ●●○○○ Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●●●○ (Feline Grace)Manipulation: ●○○○○ Intelligence:●●○○○Stamina: ●●●○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●●○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:●○○○○ Athletics: ●●○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:●○○○○Brawl: ●●●○○ Drive: ●○○○○ Finance:○○○○○Dodge: ●●●○○ Etiquette: ●○○○○ Investigation:●○○○○Empathy: ●○○○○ Firearms: ○○○○○ Law:●○○○○Expression: ○○○○○ Melee: ●○○○○ Linguistics:●○○○○ Intimidation: ●○○○○ Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:●○○○○Leadership: ○○○○○ Security: ○○○○○ Occult:○○○○○Streetwise: ●○○○○ Stealth: ●○○○○ Politics:●●○○○Subterfuge: ○○○○○ Survival: ●○○○○ Science:●○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Generation: ●●●●●Animalism: ●○○○○ Conscience:●●●○○Herd: ●○○○○Fortitude: ●○○○○ Self-Control:●●●○○Resources: ●○○○○ Protean: ●●○○○ Courage:●●●●○X: ○○○○○ Celerity: ●○○○○ X: ○○○○○Humanity: ●●●●● ●○○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ●●○○○ Blood Pool:15/153/turn Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits- Additional Discipline (Celerity) - 5 Points Flaws- Gang rel Clan Weakness: Each time a Gang rel frenzies, they gain an animalistic feature decided by the GM. Every five such features acquired permanently reduce one of the Gang rel's Social Attributes by one.- New Arrival - 1 Point-Incomplete Understanding - 1 Point-Cast No Reflection - 1 Point-Bad Sight - 1 Point Freebie Spending Freebie Spending (19 After Merits/Flaws):1 Herd1 Resources7 Protean7 Celerity3 Willpower Backstory"To truly live, one has to struggle." Fiona had a pretty decent life growing up, all things considered. Higher middle class in New York City, a few friends she was close to, never really having to struggle much for anything. She was far from a genius, but she was at least smart enough to go qualify for studying political science at a local university when she was 18 - which is also where her life took its first real turn. She was shaken out of the relatively normal life from something unlikely: actually giving a damn about a project she had to do for uni. It was just a throwaway report about environmental issues near the campus, but what she learned and confirmed was utterly appealing to her - the destruction of the planet by callous organizations and corporations wasn't a local problem only, obviously." To truly struggle, you need a muse that inspires you." With that began a slide into normal activism at first, with, predictably, nearly no success. Truth alone couldn't convince anyone, or so it at least seemed to her. Either nobody cared, or any assurances and promises made were broken within what felt like days, not even weeks. Like there was some relentless tide of ruthless jackasses going after the bit of nearly-untouched wilderness still out there with a grudge against it. Obviously she disregarded such emotional and overly cynical feelings, not aware of what certain shadowy creatures would do to spite the 'Lupines' they had to contend with. Frustrations mounting, within a year, Fiona found herself from holding signs to throwing bricks through windows at night, and holding signs during the day. Some people only learned not to mess with parts of the planet after their cars got smashed." Once I'm done with you, will you lose yours?" With her connections with more militant environmentalist groups, Fiona was eventually pulled into stopping a deforesting effort in a different state entirely, with the closest bit of civilization being an unused hunting lodge a two-day hike away. There, she and two of the friends she had made sprung into action with a simple plan - cut through a fence at the worksite at night, wreck as much of their equipment as the three could, and get back out, to their car hidden on a dirt road nearby. The first parts of the plan went beautifully - nobody had spotted their car seemingly, and they managed to get into the camp with some simple tools. However, during their attempts at quietly sabotaging the machinery, something went horribly wrong when a fire broke out. Obviously, causing a forest fire wasn't their plan, but neither was getting caught, and the trio dashed out to their car - only to find it somehow flipped on its side, with enough damage to make driving it impossible. In their irrational panic with the main road already starting to swarm with shouts and lights, they assumed some animal had taken exception to their parking spot and ran into the woods with what supplies they thankfully had in the car." Will you be different? Will you be the one to stand against the blood?" Throughout the entire night, they felt like they were being chased. Some primal fear within them, they kept struggling on, not daring to try resting at all, always feeling like it was right behind them... And then, the first of Fiona's friends disappeared. Without a word, without a sound - gone, from one second to the next. The remaining group couldn't even find any grass disturbed where he had disappeared from. In terror, they continued, on and on. No wild animal hunted humans like this - none in North America, at least. As dawn broke, both collapsed in exhaustion, suddenly not feeling the constant threat chasing them... And at that point, they were completely, utterly lost. No phone signals, no people - nothing. With what little sleep they could get and the food and water they carried, the now-duo had to try to get either to the hut somewhere in this forest, or get back to civilization. And so they struggled on, of course. Eventually, night fell, and with the darkness, something was chasing them again. The nightmare continued. At what she would later swear was midnight, Fiona suddenly found herself completely alone. Utterly alone. Her friend disappeared just like the first - they weren't simply separated. In a situation like this, even being found by the loggers was fine, but no shouting brought them back together, for nobody answered her. Harried on by something in the shadows, rustling and moving on, she continued." Or will you, like me, watch your own muse burn, like I helped burn Constantinople?" The night almost over, Fiona finally stumbled upon the hunter's hut in this damned forest, stumbling inside half-dazed and half-mad from the stress and fear. With what little firewood remained next to the chimney, she finally got some more light than just a dying flashlight. Orange light and flickering shadows... And an additional shadow behind her. A hissing sound... And with all her strength, Fiona spun around with the fire hook in her hands, smacking the person behind her in the head. The impact nearly threw herself to the ground, her hand and arm suddenly ringing and numb - the deformed piece of metal clattered to the floor. The Cain ite behind her actually looked somewhat surprised, her own head having moved slightly to the side from the impact. When was the last time a human actually managed that? It was about damned time, but she hadn't been expecting it anymore." Remember, wherever you go, my blood will mark your fate..." Darkness took Fiona's sight, darkness and a feeling of bliss she was losing herself to. After her death, Fiona found herself dumped in the outskirts of Anchorage, with but a piece of paper giving her the most basic of instructions and cryptic warnings. (Irene Louis Player: queenkam234 (BrujahChronicle: Anchorage by Night Nature: Backseat Leader Haven: ? ? ? Demeanor: Distracted Damsel Concept: Shopaholic PA Generation: 13th EXP Spent: 0Physical Social Mental Strength: ●●○○○Charisma: ●●●●○(Clumsy Cute) Perception:●●●○○Dexterity: ●●○○○Manipulation: ●●●○○ Intelligence:●●●○○Stamina: ●●○○○ Appearance: ●●●○○ Wits:●●○○○Talents Skills KnowledgesAlertness: ●●○○○Animal Ken: ○○○○○ Academics:●●○○○Athletics: ●○○○○Crafts: ○○○○○ Computer:●●○○○Brawl: ○○○○○ Drive: ●●○○○ Finance:●○○○○Dodge: ●●○○○ Etiquette: ●○○○○ Investigation:●○○○○Empathy: ●●●○○ Firearms: ●○○○○ Law:●○○○○Expression: ●○○○○ Melee: ○○○○○ Linguistics:○○○○○Intimidation: ○○○○○ Performance: ○○○○○ Medicine:●○○○○Leadership: ●○○○○ Security: ●●○○○ Occult:●○○○○Streetwise: ●●○○○ Stealth: ●○○○○ Politics:●○○○○Subterfuge: ●●○○○ Survival: ○○○○○ Science:○○○○○Backgrounds Disciplines Virtues Resources: ●●○○○Celerity: ●○○○○ Conscience/Conviction:●●●○○Herd: ●○○○○Potency: ●○○○○ Self-Control/Instinct:●●●●○Contacts: ●●○○○ Presence: ●●○○○ Courage:●●●○○Humanity/Path: ●●●●● ●●○○○Willpower: ●●●●● ○○○○○ Blood Pool:? ? ? Health:Merits camp; Flaws Merits- Blush of Health (2pts): You look more hale and healthy in appearance than other vampires, allowing you to blend with human society much more easily. You still retain the color of a living mortal, and your skin feels only slightly cool to the touch.- Concentration (1pt): You have the ability to focus your mind and shut out any distractions or annoyances. Characters with this Merit are unaffected by any penalties stemming from distracting circumstances. Flaws-Freebie Points20 points-Spend 3 points to get those 3 points of Merits-Spend 7 points to gain 1 more Presence dot-Spend 2 points to get 1 more Drive-Spend 2 points to get 1 more Streetwise-Spend 2 points to get 1 more in Etiquette-Spend 2 points to get 1 more Academics-Spend 2 points to get 2 more WillpowerBackstoryThe middle child of a middle-class family in Los Angeles, Irene grew up surrounded by celebrity without ever being able to attain it herself. Her father was a personal driver for Clarity Evans, a former Motown diva and sometime actress who continued her current lifestyle through talent show judging and cruise ship tours. The hours were long, and Clarity, whenever Irene actually had a chance to meet her was rude, but the faded glamour appealed to Irene, who spent many hours renting old movies from the public library. As the middle child, she was often left to do things on her own, quietly excelling in school. Within, though, she always had a thirst for adventure, something that used to be fulfilled by Girl Scout camping trips in her youth, but began to be supplanted by doing little things around school. A little graffiti here, a rumor spread there - never enough to make sure that negative attention was placed on her, but just enough so that she could hear the murmurs about what was going on at school, while she could lie back and know that they were really all talking about her. In contrast, her friends from high school, namely one Tiffany Hills, heiress to a motel chain, were far more exuberant, while Irene stayed in the shadows, not quite on the periphery but always watching. It was after graduating from college with a film degree that Irene found herself becoming the personal assistant to Tiffany. She needed a job, Tiffany was setting her sights on becoming some kind of influencer, and paying the bills seemed like a better idea than starving. Of course, with Tiffany being as oblivious as she was, Irene began to skim a bit off the top. Not that she did that from the outset, but Irene figured that some of the money meant to go towards another chihuahua outfit could've been better used to pay someone's bills, or as donations to those organizations that always showed up on Tiffany's social media feed. As the one in charge of arrangements and finances, this went well - up until Irene met an enigmatic entrepreneur, one Sylvester McAdams, and when she agreed to put some of her funds in a company that didn't end up panning out. Or, even really existing. Sylvester had always seemed a little strange - he said he was Irish, but the words were almost quaint, and he had an astounding lack of pop culture knowledge for someone in LA, but it didn't really all come together until Tiffany realized that Irene was using some of her own funds. At that time, it seemed right to try to flee, but with the force of all the lawyers one irate heiress could hire breathing down her back, Sylvester offered her a solution. And in a moment of desperation, Irene agreed. While Irene's wide array of skills ended up being something of an asset to the Camarillo, the site in which she left her mortal life - namely, disappearing while under the employ of a very litigious individual, meant that staying in California did not seem tenable - at least, according to the Prince, who very strongly recommended that Irene leave for Anchorage or face a sunrise. Now that she's been in Alaska for two years or so, Irene has attempted to establish a foothold for herself, with nothing but her wits and her scheduling acumen.

Anchorage By Night [OOC_ Character Sheet Thread]|rating:3.0

Rehabilitation (Abi & QT)

Once uninhabited, the six acres which comprised Moonlight Cay in the Caribbean was a paradise on Earth. Tranquil turquoise waters lapping onto the stretches of golden sand, coupled with breathtaking views, a tropical climate and isolation from the wider world made the island an enticing prospect. Throughout the years the title deeds had exchanged hands many times, yet it wasn't until eight years previous that a private consortium had acquired the small peace of perfection. Wealth bought unquestioned planning approval and privacy as construction began. The final construction costs ran into the millions, all written off naturally in various tax returns and absorbed by other business ventures the consortium ran. On schedule, however, the Moonlight Spawns open. This momentous occasion was not publicized, nor would it feature in even the most exclusive of travel destinations. Isolation had provided a unique and ideal venue and such isolation was what they sought to maintain. What staff there was had been carefully selected and vetted, all with strict NDAs in place and all largely hired for their guaranteed discretion. Some were more traditional catering staff, maids or security staff. Others medical professionals or those hired from other high profile spa's worldwide. All shared a common purpose - to cater to the needs and well-being of their 'guests' who were, more accurately, patients. For just over a year now, the Spa had catered to only two 'guests' in that time due to its strict and very exclusive admission requirements. Isolation and secrecy was not just a preference here, it was essential. Yet despite low patient numbers, their income and funding remained substantial to ensure they could utilize the latest technology and techniques. Today, however, the facility was buzzing as they prepared to meet the newest guest who was in the recovery suite on the lowest level of the facility...***>Music blared as Kathryn Walton stood on the bar in the middle of the nightclub, a bottle of tequila in hand which she let drain into her mouth before she held the empty bottle aloft to cheers from her many friends crowded into the exclusive nightspot in the heart of New York. She was on the verge of turning twenty-one and had decided to take up her friends offer of a party to end all parties to celebrate. She laughed, beyond drunk as she let her sometimes boyfriend Jay lift her down from the bar as she stumbled a little in the insanely high heels she had worn. At 5ft4, the blonde beauty was often seen in heels in an effort to try and negate her short stature. It helped, of course, that the heels gave extra definition to her slender but toned legs which were definitely being shown off by the playful little black and silver jumpsuit that stopped well above even mid-thigh. Jay leaned in and kissed her, making her squirm playfully and wrap herself indecently around him as he began guiding her towards the end of the bar." A special birthday treat," he grinned as he turned her around. There, spread out on the edge of the bar was a hot brunette in a bikini, laid out like on a Photoshop. Her golden tanned skin glistening under the strobing lights. And on her stomach were three lines of fine white powder. Jay winked at her, "don't worry, I'll make sure you get home okay, babe. You'll love it, promise." He scooped up her hair in one hand, pushing a rolled up note into her hand with the other. "What's the worst that can happen right?" Of course, he was right and with a grin and zero sense, she leaned in, drawing in a deep breath through her nose as she quickly snorted all three lines in quick succession and from that moment on, the entire night was lost in a blissful dink and drunk induced haze...>She was thirsty. Through a deep, unnatural sleep, the realization hit hard, refusing to be pushed away now that it had found a voice in her subconscious. Frowning, the fog of sleep began to dissipate, and she began to hear unfamiliar sounds as she rolled over in her bed -Ouch! Turning over hadn't allowed her to be met by soft covers and pillows but cold metal. Her eyes shot open, her blue eyes widening in horror when one very simple realization hit her. This wasn't her bed, nor her room! Panic gripped her, and she tried to scramble out of the bed, the movement creating a wave of dizziness and bringing the realization that light restraints were keeping her confined to the small single bed. Her small hands reached for them but see couldn't reach them nor could she see any obvious way of removing them even if she could. Still she tried, and as she let out a scream of frustration she heard a door somewhere behind her opening and footsteps approaching. Terrified, she fell still, her heart racing. What the hell was going on! Leon McClure had worked as the facility since its opening, while he was not one of the people that had been with the project since its inception. He knew the owner very well and while he worked in the medical field, his friend had thought that Leon would do well as serving as one of the therapists in the place, a crucial position to be in and Leon took up the task with glee despite knowing all its implications. He had several warnings from his last place of work due to his rather creative ways in dealing with patients. Here there were no oversights, he was given free rein to do as he wished so long as the clients' requests were met." Kathryn Walton right?" He said, shifting through his tablet for her info. He didn't know her at all before she was registered here by her family. Apparently the girl had quite the addiction to some pretty heavy drugs. Her parents wanted her additions to be dealt with to return to the world a changed woman. Not only that this place was meant to be a holiday resort in which people come to be rehabilitated while going on holiday. The whole experience... was to be smooth and painless. Leon finally got himself dressed in a butler suit before going out to confront the young woman that had just woken up. He gave a knock on the door before going in." Good morning Kathryn." He said as he came into her view. He was a stall and handsome man, in his middle years, though many said he looked younger than he was, with dark eyes and dark Hair. Furthermore, he walked over and took a bow. "Congratulations, you have won an all expense paid holiday at the Moonlight Spa!!" He tried to explain the situation to her, hopefully she would be too enamored with her win than to try piece together how she got there. Truth was she had been dropped off unconscious at her parent's residence, where they promptly requested her be moved here to be treated." I am Leon... I will be at her service throughout your entire stay. It's very nice to meet you." He took a closer look at her, she was very attractive and Leon knew he'd have fun servicing her throughout her time here. Kathryn watched wearily as the stranger came into view and introduced himself. His greeting was full of energy, as if he were welcoming her to Disneyland rather than wherever the hell she was. Her brow furrowed into an adorable frown of confusion as he announced she had won an all expense paid holiday to something called the Moonlight Spa. While, admittedly, there were hours and sometimes days of her life she couldn't entire account for - applying to win a holiday at a spa was not something she remembered doing. She was Kathryn Walton, after all. She could buy a spa without breaking a sweat, why would she need to win a trip?" I... don't remember trying to win a spa trip..." she admitted, her confusion replaced by annoyance as she shifted and remembered she couldn't move. "And what kind of holiday is this? Why can't I move off this bad? How did I get here? Where the hell is here anyway? I can't just go to a spa! It's my birthday tomorrow!" Technically, unknown to her, it was her birthday today. But she had no idea of lost time just as much as she had no idea how she had come to be in this sterile, cold looking room. Everything around her was either bright white furnishings or cold steel aside from monitors which lined the walls. Hell, looking up there was even one over her head." You have to let me go now and let me go home!" This was always going to be the worst part, since Kathryn herself had not wanted to come here and enjoy the services, it was her parents, and they also asked to keep the whole thing a secret from her, making it a little trickier.“Well then it looks you’ll be celebrating your birthday here.” While she didn’t know that she had slept a day, Leon did know that as well as it was her birthday, though it looked like she was having trouble accepting her stay here. Perhaps she needed to be sedated a bit, still he hoped he didn’t have to do that.“You’ll be free to get off the bed soon enough, as soon as you agree to well… just staying here for a bit. We can’t just let you go without experiencing anything here.” He came close to her, taking a close look at the young woman.“Hungry? Why don’t you eat something… and then you’re free to take a look around the resort for a bit.” He said, thus far not making any actions, though he already had the other employees here prepare her food. He had a profile of what was her favorite things and the Moonlight Spa did hire the best in terms of everything. Her frustration was momentarily abated by the realization that yes, in fact, she was hungry. Starving, actually. Yet she was still confused. How had she gotten here? She had been at her pre-birthday party - and what a party it was! And then she was… Here.“I’m sure you are nice and all but I demand you let me go! I’ve never heard of this place and -“ she broke off, wincing. “My head hurts so bad. Do you have an aspirin?” "Yes... you will be allowed to let go of course." He told her. "But right now... you should consider eating perhaps?" He asked, he could tell she was hungry, she hadn't eaten anything upon reaching here after all. With her admitting that her head hurt... that gave him an opening. "Oh of course." He said, he did give her something to treat her headache, but it would also help to sedate her a little, let her lower her guard down. He came back with the tablet on a small plate and water for her to drink it down. "Here... relax... no one will hurt you here." He told her. She had decided she wouldn’t eat until she had answers but as her headache hit home the need to be rid of it was too great to refuse the offered pill. The thought it could be more than just an aspirin never crossing her mind as, when he brought the pill to her mouth she opened her mouth to let him sit it on her tongue. Equally, she had to be little more than a passive observer as he held the glass to her lips and let her swallow all the water. Almost immediately she felt the worst of the headache subside and, relieved, she lay back as a feeling of calm and warmth began to settle and her anxiety and anger seemed to drift further out of reach with every second. She heard Leon speaking to her and after a moment her gaze finally focused on him as he removed the restraints. She heard him mention a tour while he rhymed off some of the many facilities on offer to guests. And a stop for food, naturally. She smiled, it sounded lovely. Which was exactly what she told him as he helped her from the bed, his hands steadying her until her balance steadied. Even then his hands stayed near, guiding, ready to catch her if she stumbled while his voice was constantly in her ear, commanding yet reassuring even as most of it drifted up into the fog clouding her brain. Leon was patient with her, after all he knew what he had to do right now. Have her calm down and then slowly rope her into staying here. It may be hard to do right now, but with a bit of encouragement he didn’t think it was impossible. He moved close to her, using his hands to caress her slowly. “Just relax… you’ll feel better soon.” He said, she looked to be less in pain right now, and he decided to let the medicine take its full effect before he would propose her to do something else. He undid her restraints now, and then helped her up as another servant came in to put the food onto the table next to her before it was wheeled over the bed.“You must be hungry, whatever you want to do, you can’t do on an empty stomach… so have something to eat.” He told her. Yes, she was hungry... with an absent nod he let her guide her to sit on the edge of the bed as she looked down at the food. Fresh fruit in a bowl that created a kaleidoscope of color. All of her favorites too. And pancakes, a small serving bowl beside them with maple syrup. She started with the fruit and, once she started, she ate it all quickly. A hunger that seemed at first insatiable and only seemed sated as she began to tuck into the last pancake." That was delicious, thank you," she said quietly. He stood there and watched as she had finally agreed to eat the food. Well she wasn’t going to be let go now anyway, and she was hungry so it was only a matter of time before she had to succumb to her hunger and agree on the food.“Good. We do try to deliver the best service here.” Leon told her. “How is your head feeling?” He asked. “If you are still unwell perhaps you should rest a bit more.”“However if you think you’re good, I’d like to show you around the place a little.” Leon smiled. “It feels fine,” she answered, “a little foggy, but it doesn’t hurt…” Of course, she attributed the grogginess to whatever had happened before, not the pill he had given to her. “I guess taking a look around wouldn’t hurt, but then I insist on answers and for you to let me go home.” “Great news.” He said as he pulled the table away and then began to help her out. “After the tour you could get into something out you like wearing.” He told her as he smiled before leading her out of the room to the entire compound of the resort. It was a large place that was built on a beachfront of a small island, with many indoor and out door entertainment facilities, spas and of course the beach itself. The place wasn’t meant to look like a place for Therapy but a getaway resort. “Oh of course. Any questions you have… feel free to ask.” He told her.“As for letting you go, once you try the service here a little, and you still insist on going… you will be let go.” He said, he’d just have to make sure she didn’t want to leave within in the next day or two. As she stood she found herself grateful for his supporting hand, feeling as if without it, she may be too week or to unbalanced to avoid falling. A look around couldn't hurt, could it? If she was here already it seemed rude not to after eating his food... As he keyed in a code to unlock the door they were led out into a corridor bathed in subdued warm lights. The wall on one side was adored by reinforced glass, behind which were crystal clear waters and beautiful fish of different colors, sizes and species would swim lazily in and out of view. It reminded her of visits to Deep Sea World or scuba diving with her friends... every so often she would stop and admire them before they continued on towards an elevator. It was less exciting, as elevators were prone to be. But it was clean and had only a keypad and a card reader to authorize entry to various parts of the facility. She realized they were on the lowest level, and from the way their current level was noted on the display, they had to be underground. Quite deep too. Had a sedative not been at work she would have been bursting with questions, as such the fact almost whittled away as soon as it registered. The ride up was smooth and when the doors opened the view took her breath away. They had stepped out into some kind of lobby, the kind you would find in the grandest of hotels, full of touches which screamed opulence while not being overwhelming either. Beneath her feet the floor was made of marble that shimmered, caused by tiny diamond crystals which had been incorporated into the design while most of the furnishings were of hand carved wood - the dark tones hinting at walnut. But it wasn't wood or even the intricately designed chandeliers over what probably served as the reception, it was the floor to ceiling windows that showed off a tropical beach not ten feet away which stretched out until it met beautiful tropical seas. It was beautiful. And definitely not something to be found in New York." Where are we, exactly?" she asked as she stepped closer to the windows, grateful there was air conditioning for she suspected without it, they would be suffering from the heat beyond the glass. Leon was a little worried that she'd be asking him questions. He hoped that the sedatives were working on her, calming her so that she didn't immediately panic which would make things a lot harder for him. Luckily for him, whether she had questions or not, she only asked them in the end." Oh... the Moonlight Spa of course." Leon smiled at her. "Though if you were to ask where it is located, in the Caribbean off the coast of the states." She would know where that would be, or how far it was from her mainland." Why so tense... you have won a trip, why not enjoy the services here for a bit?" He asked as he put both his hands on her shoulders, massaging her a little. It was quite unexpected, his touch on her shoulders. Had she not been sedated perhaps he would have been nursing a broken jaw but as it was, a soft moan escaped her lips as his hands massaged her shoulders? It felt good… Trying to quell the lull in her temper and focus she nodded, conceding. “I guess it can’t hurt….” Her eyes fell on a nearby display where extravagant lettering listed the facilities and the location. Of course all had a rather unique purpose when utilized here that were not commonplace at other spas, but as a new arrival she was yet to realize it. “You have isolation tanks?” She had used one once, and it had been amazing, cocooned inside what resembled a giant egg, she had floated for what seemed like days and had never felt so relaxed. Here, however, it was more of a conditioning tool than one exclusively for relaxation. Sensing her liking his touch he continued to massage her. He was good at it, though beforehand when she had just woken up, she was too alert to actually let him do the work. He didn’t immediately answer her when she was warming up to the idea. “You won’t regret it. We only offer the best here.” He assured her. As she asked of the isolation tanks he nodded. “Oh yes we do. Would you like to try one here?” He asked her. After the tour of the place, Leon had begun to lead her to that area. “Would you like to be properly bathed beforehand? Or simply want a quick shower before we introduce you to the tank?” He asked. Telling him she would like to experience the tanks she enjoyed the massage and was decidedly more pliant and cooperative as she led him lead her towards the far side of the spa. His question gave her pause as her brain tried to focus upon it.“I … I can shower,” she managed as she was led to a small wet room where she could undress, shower and change into a decidedly skimpy swimsuit which was incredibly revealing. Still as she rejoined him she knew she was going into a tank and nobody else seemed to be around so she once again let him lead. Entering a room bathed in a soft blue light she saw three pods, one open and inviting. With his help she moved into the open pod, the surrounding water warm and inviting as she settled into the carved structure which would ensure any occupants could not sink beneath the surface. Once she was ready she watched as the pod was closed, all sounds blocked out. Darkness descended but only for a few seconds before the same soft blue lighting illuminated the interior. Taking deep breaths she felt her body relaxing almost to the point of sleep. The perfect state of mind as the inbuilt holographic displays and sound system came to life… "Alright then." He told her before he had led her to the section with the isolation tanks. Like any other place in the Moonlight Spa, the area is quite expansive with the tanks in the middle of a well lit room. Of course there was only the two of them. He had decided not to follow her along after she had taken her clothes off, instead choosing to have female employees attend to her. She was guided to the pods and then let in, with the pod closing on her and Kathryn left there in isolation, there was no sound or sight for her, just herself weightless in the pod. After about an hour Leon would have the employees help her out. He had planned to start working on lowering her defenses more... once she was ready to let him choose a few things for her to do. How long she was in the tank she had no idea. The soft lighting and the muted soft sounds of nature her only company. And perhaps she did drift off to sleep for as the pod opened, it felt like no time at all since she went inside. Hands guided her out, dried her and helped her into a soft robe before leading her back to the observation area where Leon was waiting. Her body and mind felt so rested and calm, something she had not felt for a long time. Leon was a little stunned looking at her returning. She had looked pretty, but now that she was relaxed and in those robes she looked amazing.“Welcome back… I see that you are relaxed and refreshed.” He said to her. “Anything else you have in mind? Perhaps the beach? Or some entertainment?” Leon asked, thinking how to get her into a more sexually charged mood so that he could take advantage of her. He licked his lips… certainly want to see just how she’d look undressed, and having his cock in her. "Entertainment?" It was so vague that it captured her attention, curious to know what he meant. She was oblivious to his end goal, still weary of this new place. Who could blame her? No matter how often she tried, she could remember nothing after snorting lines of coke off a gorgeous blonde's stomach. And this was nothing like the nightclub she had been in when that happened. How she had gotten here she had no idea, but she had neither the inclination nor energy to push for answers at that moment in time. She was far too relaxed, her brain still in a fog. He realised just how much the sedation and her earlier relaxation had caused her to not be alert at all, a perfect chance to push for what he wanted. He nodded. "Yes... entertainment." He said, he had read from her profile that she frequented nightclubs often, meaning that surely she must be involved in more sleazy things there. Given her familiarity to sexual things... it shouldn't be hard to convince her in the state as she was in now. He took her to her designated room, a large to the floor and curved window overlooking the beach. He had helped her to sit down on the sofa. Getting behind her, he moved his hands to massage her shoulders... only this time moving down to her breasts... groping them through her robe softly. She followed where he led her, not quite taking in the full surroundings but aware enough of them to get a general feel for how spacious and luxurious this place was. And the lack of people other than staff. Her question about that disappeared into the ether as stepped into a room with a stunning view of the beach and the ocean. Without a word she let him guide into a sofa of the softest material she had ever felt under her fingertips as she sank into the cushions. If were possible to sit on a cloud, this is what she imagined it would feel like." It's so beautiful," she admitted as his hands began to massage her shoulders. She gave a soft, contented sigh as his hands manipulated her flesh, helping to keep her mind in that peaceful lull for longer. And then his hands slid down, brushing over the satin of the robe until he could begin to tease her breasts through the fabric. She moaned softly, her back arching to push the mounds of flesh into his hands without any conscious thought at all. The place was top-notch of course, this place demanded a high premium in terms of price to service its clients, not that it was an issue for Kathryn's family as they wanted their daughter to be reshaped. Well perhaps they didn't know just how Leon had decided to reshape her.'" I'm glad you like it." He said simply. It was good that she did, since she'd be here for quite a bit of time. Emboldened by her lack of resistance he continued on wards. "Do you enjoy the view? You could look around as much as you want." He said after she had sat there for a bit, helping her up and then guiding her over close to the window, his hands now slipped further, now going down into her robe and touching the flesh, cupping her breasts before his fingers slightly pinched at her nipples." You seem you could do with something more... thorough." He said, as he used one hand to undo his pants, dropping it to the ground before he pulled her robe apart, leaving her naked, he leaned into her, feeling her back feel his hard cock press against her. At his urging she stood and walked to the curved window to admire the view as he suggested. “It is a paradise,” she murmured in response to his question, pliant as his hands roamed over her body and barely registering as the thin satin robe fell open. Had anyone been on the other side of the window they would have seen her in all her natural glory but there was nothing but sand, sea and gentle waves lapping up onto the shore. There was a sound of a buckle being undone and the sound of fabric falling and yet her brain did not register what he meant by ‘thorough’ even as his hands cupped her breasts. Then she felt him pressing against her back and the growing hardness of his cock. “Thorough?” She asked as she leaned back against him. “It is paradise.” He agreed with her. “But you are what makes it a paradise.” He teased her, wanting to ease her further into accepting him. He was to be her guide here after all, and he had treated her well. There was a lack of alert from her when his hardening cock pressed against her back and with her leaning into him, he moved her a little closer to the window, letting her hands settle against the glass as he lined up his cock against her pussy, then slowly began to fill her. “Yes… like this.” He moaned, feeling her pussy clench around his cock as he stretched her open, he moved one hand to her breasts and the other holding onto her waist as he began to pull back, only to thrust back into her once more slowly. A pliant creature in his hands she moved closer to the window, letting him lift her hands and press them to the glass. Leverage for what came next... she felt the robe lift, removing that small slither of fabric between them, and then she gasped, moaning in pleasure at the familiar feeling of a cock pushing inside of her. This one though much larger than any she had been fucked with before in her short lifetime of experience, gasping as every thrust pushed him in deeper and deeper, stretching her out each time in a slow motion that made the pleasure so much better than the pain and discomfort."oh!!!!" her breath escaped in a rush as he pushed all the way inside of her, holding it there for a long moment to let her adjust. It was wrong, a part of her knew that all too well, but she had no desire to stop it. "Oh fuck...." Leon simply couldn't resist her any longer when his cock began to push into her folds. She had received his cock rather readily, likely owning to his slow entry into her. Feeling her pussy clench around his cock as he moaned loudly." Oh... you like it?" He asked her, still keeping one hand on her breast and the other on her waist as he began to pull back, only to push himself back into her once more, stretching her folds as he pumped his cock in and out of her." This is this thorough enough for you?" He asked her, leaning to kiss the back of her neck again as his hips slammed into her ass with each motion. Leon gradually picked up the pace as he continued to fuck her. Her head leaned back against his chest as her back arched in pleasure, receiving his cock as if made for nothing more than this most simple of pleasures. "MMM, yes..." she purred. As he picked up the pace she gasped and moaned in appreciation, even as it made her press harder against the glass. The fog in her head didn't worry her at all for now, allowing her to enjoy every movement, every touch as she cried out louder and louder. Leon already knew of her rather decadent life so as long as he was bringing her pleasure and she didn't get much of a chance to think why she was here, it should be rather easy to continue his task. He moaned, feeling her pussy milk at this cock as he had moved both of his hands to her breasts, playing with her robs before pinching at her nipples." Good... then I will continue to service you." He said, now speeding up his thrusts as his hips kept on slapping into her ass, drawing them close to a climax. While the spa was staffed, not a single soul came near as the pair continued to have sex by the open window. Lost in a haze of sedatives and raw pleasure, she came quickly and hard. Her body was coated in a thin sheen of sweat, but she continued to push back against him until he to found his sweet release. Leon continued to pound his cock into her tight pussy as he felt his orgasm now fast approaching. He wasn't quite ready to just cum in her just yet though. He slowed a little, grinding himself against her to prolong the inevitable. Eventually though, he couldn't hold back as he began to ram his cock rapidly into her until she came. Leon screamed in pleasure as he filled her pussy with his cum. Kathryn was accustomed to a life of wealth and privilege and used those to seek pleasure such as this. As she came a second time she was a quivering-exhausted mess, more so as he slowly pulled out, his cum oozing from her now stretched out pussy as her robe fell back around her body. Her back against his chest, her head rolled back to rest on his shoulder, her mind on lustful, sinful thoughts as he held her to him. He continued to pump in and out of her as he brought her to another high, his seed blasting into her pussy. Oh, he will enjoy giving her treatment here. Already he could feel her getting used to staying here. He just needed to flood her with more pleasure. Leon pulled out of her before going forth to carry her over to the couch laying her there before he moved up close to her, his cock dangling in front of her mouth. "Suck it clean." He merely told her, wanting to test her how docile she was and of course, he knew he would enjoy her lips on his cock. She was in a blissful high as he swept her off her feet and carried her with ease, laying her down gently. She moaned softly as she squirmed on the soft velvet, her eyes seeming far away as he came to stand over her.“Suck it clean.” Without any real conscious thought her mouth popped open to allow him to feed her his cock, her lips closing around it as she began to suck while her tongue teased his shaft at the same time. Despite his brazen request, Kathryn seemed to not even register it as she began to suck on his cock. Leon moaned. "Just like that." He watched her move up and down his shaft, she certainly knew just how to suck a cock good. He simply stood there and watched as she continued to clean and suck on his cock. "MMM... that's enough for now." He simply said before another idea came to his mind." Get on your hands and knees." He told her. "Tell me... do you want me to take you up the ass?" While she moved onto her hands and knees easily enough he saw a faint shake of her head, her body and mind shying away from the idea and the pain she knew would come with it if he fucked her up the ass. Afraid a shake of her head wouldn't be enough it took her a few seconds to find her voice and say, "please, don't..." He smiled as he began to tease her there, rubbing her ass with his hand, then slipping one finger into her folds to tease her while he waited for her answer. As she said no he simply chuckled. “As you wish.” He said, spanking her ass before guiding his shaft against her folds once more, the client would get what she wanted after all… unless he could get rid of more of her defenses that was. He smirked as he thrust himself into her, filling her pussy with his rod as he groaned in pleasure. She gasped at the sudden spank which left her skin with a red sheen in the shape of his hand, the shook of it almost breaking through her stupor as her back arched in pleasure as he took her once more. This time he slid in easily as if she were made just for him, already stretched wide to accommodate his impressive size as she felt him push deep inside. "Oh fuck!" she panted. Leon moaned as he pushed himself deeper into her, feeling her pussy clench around his cock and milking at him. "Your body is perfect for fucking." He told her as his hands groped her ass, and he began to drive himself into her pussy repeatedly, moaning in pleasure as his hips slammed into her ass cheeks." Push back against me." Leon told her as he felt another climax approaching. Perfect for fucking... his comment swirled around in her brain, filling it for a few moments before at his instruction she pushed back against his thrusting hips, screaming out in pleasure at the feel of him taking her once more. She was in no doubt he was about to once more find his release but at that moment she did not care at all. He leaned forth, continuing to slam his cock into her tight pussy, he was already on his way towards another climax now. "Mummy... fuck... how does it feel?" He asked her giving her ass another spank as he continued to plow her. Moving one hand down he began to grope her breasts, pinching at her nipples as his thrusts sped up even more, though he was also trying to hold back... wanting to have her cum as well. Through the fog and haze of her mind, Kathryn knew this was not the first time she had been on her hands and knees with a stranger fucking her. And hell, that was only the times she could remember. There were plenty of other times when it was all just a blank, and it was anyone's guess what she had done during those times of drug induced bliss, be it alcohol or something else. His spanking though was beginning to cut through the haze, wake her more and more to the point when she had her first moment of clarity in perhaps days, if not months. She stared down at the floor, where her hands were firmly planted on the cold tiles and her eyes widened as another thrust almost knocked her over. What the fuck was she doing?!" Stop!" she cried out, scrambling to try and get away from him. Halfway across the room she turned, effectively sitting on the floor as she turned to face him, her eyes wide with fear and confusion even as her body still betrayed signs of clear arousal and his cum still oozed from her body. "What the fuck?! No, don't you dare touch me!" she screamed as he seemed to take a step closer. "I don't know what sick place this is, but I am out of -"Her words died in her throat as unnoticed by her, his personal assistant came up behind the young woman, the needle he had in his hand finding the vein on her neck with ease as he injected a clear liquid that had the guest unconscious in a heartbeat, with the added benefit that it would wipe out all memories of the previous six hours of her life. Aaron eyed the girl before looking towards Leon, not an ounce of surprise or outrage at what he had been doing with his 'patient' visible in his dark eyes. "Attractive girl. Shall I take her back to her room or do you want her in the conditioning room?" As he continued to fuck her, he knew that eventually she'd wake from the state she was in. It was good to condition her to what she was now on the first day, but there was more work to do. He continued to pump himself into her until he was at his climax. Though just before that... she seemed to have realised what she was doing... getting fucked by someone who she didn't know after waking up at a place she didn't know how she got to. Still he screamed as he came in her... shooting his load deep into her pussy right before she began to scream. He thought he'd need to subdue her and the sedate her again before letting her sleep, but his assistant had come already to inject her neck. She slowly then fell asleep. "Nice work." Leon said. "Yes take her to her room and let her sleep for now... I think she's had enough surprises for one day." He smiled as he began to reach for his clothes and get dressed." We'll take her to the conditioning room a bit later. We don't want to be too harsh on her, the client wants her to be taken care of. And as a Moonlight Spa... we are meant to do that anyway." Aaron nodded, bending down and easily scooping up the unconscious young woman as if she were as light as a feather. He was someone who would not be out of place on an American football team, huge muscular arms and legs which helped him subdue the most difficult of patients. Which wasn't often. After all, they had drugs here that could twist and turn a mind and bend it to the whim of their client, reinforced by a suite of conditioning rooms which absolutely did not make it into the brochures. He swept through the corridors, this time not returning to the lower levels but to the actual room assigned to their new 'guest'. With a view out over the tropical waters it was on par with the most luxurious of hotels, yet there was in truth no escape. The room was air-conditioned, so the floor to ceiling windows offered a stunning vista, although with a tap of the control pad by the bed the windows went opaque, leaving the room in virtual darkness. When the drug wore off, natural sleep would take over for as long as her body required. Laying her on the bed he gathered what he needed, moving her around as if she were a doll as he methodically washed her down, removing any evidence of what had transpired with Leon. The drug would remove any memory but that did nothing if her body was still oozing his seed. Next he picked up a small bag, carefully peeling it open and setting down to his next task. Aaron was, in his varied past, a nurse. And so his hands moved with purpose and care - not that he didn't enjoy spreading the girl wide open with one gloved hand while another inserted the small tube into her urethra. With patience, he worked it until he was in her bladder, emptying the contents into a plastic bowl. Some would be used to test for any residual drugs in her system, the rest destroyed. That done he removed the catheter, cleared away any trace of what he had done, washed up and then dressed her in baby pink scrubs - the kind they let guests wear in the spa. He picked a size too small, sure Leon would enjoy that cos he sure did. She really was stunning, when she wasn't screaming or off her head on drugs. Actually, even then, he wouldn't say no. Leon had watched Aaron leave the room as he finished dressing up. He had to report the status of the patient to the boss here, after all Kathryn was the most important patient here right now and taking care of her was paramount. He sighed, hoping that she had not woken up right then and there, but there wasn't much that he could do right now, he'd have to slowly let her open up to the place, she'd be here for a while after all. Sighing he finally resorted leaving the room then giving the boss a call once he had reached his office. After the call he decided to finally go and check on Kathryn in her room. He knew the next time they'd have to do some conditioning of her. He entered the room once Aaron had left, going in and then placing a hand on her head before caressing her. Furthermore, he watched her for a bit. It's best to fill her with more drugs without her resisting so he decided to call in Aaron once more." We'll take her to the conditioning room now." He said. "Then prepare the drugs... hopefully we'll be able to get her to be a bit more cooperative after it." Aaron had returned with a gurney and with ease he lifted the still unconscious Kathryn from her bed. Lifting the sides to ensure she could not fall, unlikely but years of training had made it automatic. Humming a song from the radio, he wheeled their patient to the conditioning suite, his access card granting him immediate entry. Once there he transferred their patient to the Rig. It was essentially a glorified metal frame, cushioned of course, which could be adjusted into a number of positions. A solid back supported the torso (more specifically the spine with just enough extra width to accommodate various users' physiology). A small strip of metal then linked to a small circular cushion to support the head. Small offshoot supports were there for arms and legs, all attached to motors which could again be used to adjust the position of said limbs. Needless to say the Rig required patience to set up and a number of restraints which prohibited all but the bare set movement. For now the rest of this particular room was in darkness and whistling to himself, Aaron set the series of injections on a tray, ready for Leon before he retreated and took the gurney with him. “All set Boss,” he reported cheerfully, “full works is prepped, and the computer can run any program you want, your personal folders are synced and system will recognize your voice - IT just finished the upgrade.” Leon led the way to the conditioning room, somewhere more akin to a hospital room rather than the cozy rooms that she resided in before Leon looked over at Aaron as she had strapped her onto the rig. "Good work." He said to him while having him nearby in case something was to happen. Beyond that went to the computer to check just what kind of mixture he needed to give her to start. He would want her to remain a little calmer even if she did see things that were unusual, and even with her current level of lust being quite high, he wanted her to want sex more. Combining the mixtures and then finally filling the syringe he moved over to inject it into her while she slept. He waited, wanting to see if she'd wake up. "We'll transport her back if she still sleeps. And prepare some food for her." He told Aaron before turning to focus on Kathryn again. The tiny single sharp piercing of her skin was the first thing that cut through the sweet oblivion which had claimed Kathryn. Outwardly the only sign was a furrowing of her brow, as if she were struggling with some complex math problem. Soon enough, though, the frown melted away and for a few minutes there was nothing as inwardly her mind began to race through a rapid series of erotic dreams. On the rig subtle movements were detected, nothing the restraints could not handle. Her positioning, however, made the dampness between her legs visible as the thin fabric of the trousers became a few shades darker. What woke her was the need, a burning need, to touch herself. To satisfy a growing, intense longing between her thighs. Yet her body wouldn't move. It wanted to but wouldn't. Again and again she tried, and it was these small, constant movements that met only with resistance from the padded cuffs on the restraints that finally woke her. Her eyelids fluttered open, her gaze seeming distant, unfocused as she licked her dry lips. The fact she was in a strange place, bound to metal contraption, did not appear to even register. Leon kept his eye on her, making sure that the whole thing wasn't very uncomfortable for her. Not because there were any requirements, his job was to ensure the patient was in good condition, it didn't mean he couldn't inflict harm upon her if need be. But Leon was quite fond of her, therefore wanting her to have a pleasant experience here. He noticed the frown on her face before it faded away. He had wanted her wake in her own bed, however she had already waked before Aaron went to unbind her. Leon looked over at Aaron and gave him a nod, the man quickly turned and disappeared leaving the two of them alone there. "How are you feeling?" He said, caressing her before going to undo her contraptions. Kathryn looked at him, a distant, blissful look still in her eyes as his voice brought her gaze to him. She felt his hands on her body and she felt such pleasure from it that she moaned. As soon as her hand was freed it came to her stomach, sliding down her soft flesh and then under the fabric of the trousers Aaron had put on her, moving to start and try to relieve the intense need which needed to be sated." Feel so good," she purred as the drugs continued to flow through her veins. It was a state her body knew, craved. He smiled as he heard her moan from his touch, clearly she was quite aroused due to the injection that she had... perhaps this time she'd be able to enjoy him for longer. Leon quickly freed her and helped her stand up, his hands holding onto her softly." Oh? What feels good?" He said teasing her. "Let's get to some place a little... nicer." He said, she hadn't actually realised what the current room was which was good, it's good to take her to somewhere outside. Leon led her out. "Where would you like to go? Perhaps the beach? Your room? Then I help with whatever you want." "Everything feels so good," Kathryn murmured as he helped her to her feet, her eyes unfocused as she pressed against him. She did not even notice they were moving, let alone where she had been. Instead, she was far too focused upon the man holding her, his touch so assured and so, so nice. She absently caressed his cheek and then chest as they walked, "mmm, I do love the beach.... but I'm not dressed for a trip to the beach am I?" He smiled at her when she said she wasn't well-dressed for it. "Oh yes... how about we go to your room and get you ready for the beach?" He asked her. Leading her to her room, he opened the wardrobe to show off the various sundresses and bikinis that would be suited for her." See anything you like?" He asked her, noticing that she quite liked being touched, he'd occasionally run his hand down her back, or simply stroke her arm. "Pink!" As her eyes roamed over the collection of clothes her hand darted out and picked out a pink bikini. As bikinis went there was very little to this particular one, mostly string with three triangular pieces of fabric which bordered on transparent, especially when wet. "I love pink," Kathryn smiled, beginning to strip naked and slip on the flimsy garment. "How do I look?" Leon stood back and let her pick out the clothes that she liked. "Oh... nice." He said. "Then try it on." He told her as he watched her strip herself and put on the semi transparent pink bikini. "You look amazing in it." It left little to the imagination and where it did conceal it only served to inflame his desire even more." Let's go to the beach then." Leon said to her as he then led her out of her room and the resort building. Once they were on the beach he leaned over to kiss her before rubbing his hands down her back, his cock growing erect by the moment." Next time I'll dress in something more appropriate for the beach... but seeing that I'll be getting out of my clothes soon... I don't think it is a huge issue." He moved her hand over to him. "Would you like to undress me?" He asked. She was in a blissful, albeit drug induced high as she clung onto his arm while he led her to the beach. She had no care that she in an unfamiliar place, with a complete stranger while virtually naked. No. She was just living at the moment and at that moment every little touch was just pure pleasure. As the stepped out into the sun she stopped, savoring the heat against her skin before they walked a little ways onto a stretch of golden sand that met the most crystal clear water she had ever seen. As she watched, soft gentle waves lapped up onto the shore before retreating back out again. Her attention was ripped from it as this stranger kissed her and that almost stole her breath away. As he placed her hand on the waistband of his trousers she smiled mischievously even as her hands began to move, her brain interpreting his suggestion as a command. "I don't even know your name," she grinned, kissing him before starting to kneel, gently stripping him out of his trousers and underwear in one swift motion. Hormones already running wild she had barely let him step out of his trousers before she leaned in, her hand stroking his hardening cock as she began licking and sucking as if she were a starved woman. Leon gave her a smile. He had remembered introducing himself... but perhaps he had overlooked that. "My apologies." He said to her as he watched her get down onto her knees and then stripped off his pants. "I'm Leon." He told her, though he almost didn't finish as she began to stroke on his shaft and then beginning to suck on it." Mhmm... good." He groaned louder in pleasure as he stood there, his hand stroking her hair as he occasionally moved his hips, shoving his shaft deeper into her mouth." Keep sucking it." Leon told her, his cock throbbing in her mouth before moving one hand down to her breasts... teasing her. In truth, he had introduced himself when she first awoke in the facility, yet that memory along with the subsequent events, had been thoroughly wiped from her mind by the drugs initially administered by his assistant. Not that, at the moment, she especially cared what his name was. Her sole focus and need was on how good he tasted and felt in her mouth and oh! How every touch of his hand made her want to melt into a puddle of pleasure at his feet. He didn't need to tell her to keep going, for she had no intention of stopping. He moaned as she began to take his cock deeper into her mouth, sucking on his shaft. Seeing that his touch had the intended effect on her, he continued to grope her breasts as Kathryn continued to blow his cock. "Mummy... you have a lovely mouth." He told her as he finally shifted one hand to her head, running through her hair before holding her in place and beginning to shove his cock into her mouth." I'm going to cum soon... and when I do... I want you to swallow every last drop of my seed." He told her before stopping fucking her face... letting her finish sucking him off as his hand moved down to caress her cheek. She squirmed as his hands moved to hold her head and he took over. Many guys had done this to her in the past and she loved the feeling. The submission, the dominance... something her parents would never understand. She was on her knees at the mercy of this stranger who was fucking her face and her body was undeniably aroused by it all. When he was close he eased off and as he told her to swallow his load she nodded as she continued to pleasure him. It wasn't long before she was arching her neck as thick ropes of delicious cum shot down her throat and filled her mouth until her cheeks began to swell. But as he ordered, not a single drop would be wasted, and she pulled back to let him watch as she swallowed it all down. Leon continued to pump his cock into her throat even as he had stopped actively fucking her face, watching her as she began to suck on him until he finally couldn't hold back anymore. The man let out several loud grunts of pleasure before shooting his load deep down into her mouth, he pulled back slightly... letting the remaining of his cum coat the inside of her mouth. Once he had recovered from that climax he finally moved her, pushing her onto her hands and knees before getting behind her and then lining up his cock against her ass. "You want more?" He asked her, though before she would answer him, he had already begun to push his cock into her back entrance slowly. The warm sand was clinging to her forearms and lower legs as she lay on the sand beneath him, the taste of him heavy in her mouth as a breeze caught her hair and whipped it around. She felt it as he moved up behind her, his cock pressed against the tight entrance to her ass as he spoke up." Yes," she moaned, crying out and her back arching as he pushed inside, fighting the tightness to open her up to him and own her ass. "Fuck!" she hissed between her teeth, on the verge of telling him to stop. Leon moaned loudly as he felt her tight ass clench around his cock. Despite his entry, she seemed to enjoy it as he pushed his shaft deeper and deeper into her, his hands grasped onto her body, waist with one, while the other went to hold onto Kathryn's shoulder." Good... I'm loving it as well." He moaned triumphantly a pushed his entire length into her now. With that he began to slowly pull back, feeling his cock exit her ass only for him to slam it back into her butt once more." Oh... you feel so good." He said, having one hand stroke her butt as he started to slowly take her again and again. Kneeling in the sand with her long blonde hair hanging down around her, Kathryn was in heaven as this virtual stranger fucked her ass. It felt so good, better than ever and as he kept pounding her ass she knew she was going to cum over and over unless he stopped, and she did not want that, not at all. "More, please," she begged. She needed more. More of him. More of this incredible feeling of bliss and pleasure coursing through her veins. Leon moved one hand to her pussy, slowly stroking her there, matching the pace at which he had taken her ass, slowly pumping away at her tightest hole. "Good..." He said his other hand moving to her butt cheeks to give her a spank before he gradually sped up his thrusts. Moaning loudly, Leon was now pounding into her ass at a constant pace, his two of his fingers now pushed into her pussy, thrusting alongside his cock that deeply plowed her anal orifice." I'm going to cum soon." He groaned in pleasure, quickly approaching his climax. Kathryn threw her head back, moaning in pleasure as he continued to fuck her, trembling as his cock and fingers combined to make her cum once more. His own proclamation that he was about to cum should have been worrying to her, but it wasn't. She was in a state of blissful abandon and unable to think of anything beyond the physical. Beyond the here and now. She felt his thrusts grow more urgent, heard his cry of pleasure as he came, claiming her ass and savoring it as her body tightly held him. She cared not that as he pulled out of her, cum began to ooze from her stretched ass, only that the warm air hitting her exposed insides almost made her cum again. Leon smiled as he continued to plow her ass with his hard cock, he was indeed drawing close to his climax now, almost unable to hold back, though he tried to make it last as long as possible before he finally gave in. With a loud cry he came in her, blasting her orifice with his load as he grunted in pleasure. "Ahhh... your ass is so tight." He moaned as he pushed himself into her just a few more times before he finally came to a stop. His fingers still buried in her pussy as he pulled them out now, moving them over to her mouth. "Lick them clean, I bet you want to taste your juices." He said as he finally began pull his cock out of her well fucked ass.

Rehabilitation (Abi & QT)|rating:2.0

My friend was a princess_ Ok this is happening... (Chaotic & Fabs)

Where had her life gone wrong or had it gone right? Staring out a window of the plane at the passing clouds and earth far beneath the metal bird. Her face held a calm expression, but she was anything but. Inside her head she was screaming bloody murder. Today had been a strange one indeed. Where had all this began? Rolling back the clock in her mind the morning began normally. Darkness, the sweet embrace of the abyss was destroyed and violated by the accursed fireball in the sky known as the 'sun' as the blinds to her window were suddenly opened. Hissing like a vampire who was faced with the sun." Get up!" Slowly raising from the sheets barely clothed in just an oversized T-shit and messy hair. "The fuck do you want... It's fucking six in the morning on a Saturday. When the fuck did we become a catholic family?" Hissing as she sat up yawning and rubbing her eyes." Look, Dad ran off with that whore again, and mom's on one of her rage benders again. So I am in charge of the house." The voice said as her vision began to focus, and she was looking at her elder sister with a hateful glare. "And the fuck does that have to do with-"She stated clearly only to get cut off." Get out Torn." The elder sister said, Torn, Amino Torn was her proper full name." My boyfriend is coming so get the fuck out and don't bother coming back till after it's dark, or he'll don't come back till mom and dad are back." She said, and Torn could already hear the middle child of this fucked up family on the phone with a friend asking for a place to stay. "And where the fuck am I supposed to go?" Tora asked expecting the 'I don't care' answer. Her expectations of course were met. "I don't care, go sleep on a bench in the park or go share a bed with that foreign SL-" Torn's elder sister was cut off as a Shrike flew past her head cutting her cheek. "Finish that sentence and the next three aren't missing." Torn hissed, by this point you would think you would choose your words carefully when you wake someone who keeps a number of blades within arms reach of where she woke up. But considering the multiple holes in the walls clearly made by the Shrike people didn't learn in this household. Tora was a nerd she loved collecting shit like Shrike's, she loved Katina's, freaked out at rare model sets, her room was covered in collectable anime figurines, games, DVD's and the like. It was an Take room. Torn's hostility was related to the person her sister spoke of. A glare off, before her sister backed down knowing Torn would throw them if provoked further. She was protective of that girl. "Well whatever I don't care where you go just get the fuck out before I throw your ass out." Leaving to go tend to her bleeding cheek. Torn let out a Che as she left thinking about how funny it would be if she tried. Torn retrieved her Shrike returning it to where the others were. Knowing where she wasn't wanted she gotDressedthrowing things she might need for a week of camping into her spare big backpack. She called it her camping pack, as it had all she needed to camp out. Plus entertainment stuff, like her 3DS, PS Vita, portable chargers. A few changes of clothes and blankets. Torn headed out her sister was in the kitchen she could hear her 'threateningly' messing with kitchen knifes. Torn turned and locked her room, she had made a point to put a lock on the outside of her room to prevent her family from stealing her shit. Heading out into the hall and to the front door passing her sister." Hope the prick knocks your ass up." Tora said as she left flipping her sister off. Heading out slamming the door behind her. Ah, the daily life in a broken household. Adjusting her backpack she headed off down the street wondering where to go. She didn't have a lot of friends, she would likely have to camp out tonight and Sunday, then after school Monday she likely could crash at one of the club members places or get into the P. E equipment shed. It was bad, but she was used to this shit by now. Sighing as she walked her angel was gone. The breath of fresh air that was a foreign exchange students she had become great friends with. She had asked some weird things before she left but hey it left a memory she doubts she would forget... Well best make the most of today. Torn spent the next two hours walking over two miles to a game and card shop she frequented. "Yo!" She called out as she entered waving to the staff who seemed unsurprising to see her. Making her way over to the book and Dungeons and Dragons section. Browsing the tokens and custom stuff they got in as well as the books and third party released stuff they had." Excuse me... Ma'am?" A voice spoke as Torn turned around, rather surprised by what she saw. A man, an older one in a Butler uniform. Oh, yeah he didn't stick out like a sore fucking thumb. "Yes? Can I help you?" Tora asked seeming quite confused. The man seemed pleased to get her attention giving her small bow. Torn was reasonably confused by all this. "Her highness Alexia-ah you would know her rather as 'Rachel' has spoken of you. You are Amino Torn yes? She said the two of you were..." The man states clearly till he pauses looking her up and down before clearing his throat. Seemingly sizing her up much to Torn's discomfort. Torn looked outside the shop, there was a fancy car for rich people with two rather large men. Had Rachel gotten mixed up with the mob or something. Torn made a promise, and she wouldn't back down, not for her friend. Plus the things this man was saying didn't make sense. "Dating? Yeah, what about it?" Torn put her hand on her hips standing tall and not backing down giving him an intense look. He seemed relieved she said it and not him. What's more he seemed pleased with the air she gave off. "There majesty's would like to meet with the one who stole there daughters heart. Please come with me so we may depart." He gave another bow this one seemed less forced as he waited her answer. Torn looked around the staff was worried and there were two large men in black outside. They clearly were guard types this could be dangerous for the staff. If Torn refused what would be stopping them from forcing her and disposing of witnesses. Torn was still assuming this was some shady mob stuff. Smiling to one of the staff members she had become what she would like to think of as friendly and waving a goodbye to." Very well lead the way." Torn gave him the clear and followed him from the store compliantly. Getting into the car with him and the guards. The car pulling out she and the man sat in the back seat. "I am surprised you were so senseable. I figured a commoner like you would be very resistant to such a thing happening. It seems you have a good sense about you." The man spoke to her as Torn stared out of the window. Only turning to look at him as he spoke." I know how to read a room, if I refused there was nothing stopping you from having the big guys up front coming in and getting me. There clearly packing weaponry and there's nothing stop them from disposing of witnesses and I liked the people there. Me going along made the most sense to lower the possible damages. My life isn't as important as five." Tora stated, and even the guards seemed a bit impressed at her analysis of the situation. It was true they could have done that, and she didn't trust them and was functioning on the assumption they were enemy's and could kill her at any time if they so desired. Arriving at the airport she was let out and guided through the crowds. "Ah yes, here you are." The first man handed her a passport? Opening up it was one for her, and it was Official!? What the hell was going on? Wait a second, this was a diplomatic passport? She had diplomatic immunity and the identification of a diplomat? Now things were getting very odd. Then it hit her he had said there majesty's, and called Rachel by another name. Was all this real? Was it really happening!? Before Torn had gathered her senses she was being led onto a private plane. The plane was lavish, and she was lead to a seat as a cute young woman dressed as a maid asked her if she would like anything. She asked for just water. As the plane took off and soared it had been a quiet hour or two of pure thought as she stared out the window. "Ma'am? Ma'am?" The voice of the first man and only one she had actually spoken to shook her out of her thoughts. "Huh, oh yeah?" Tora snapped from her daze as he seemed unsurprised. "Now that we are outside of Japan's airspace allow me to properly introduce myself, I am Seas Than. Currently we are on route to an undisclosed location to the human populace. From there you will be escorted to speak with the royal family. So I ask that you act as dignified as you can." Sebas stated seeming a slight bit insulting, but he seemed to have good intentions with it, so Torn didn't make mention of it. Instead, she looked back to the window. "Ah, and please hold on." He stated gripping the arms of his seat tightly as all the others on the plane seemed to brace themselves. Torn looked confused but gripped her chair on impulse feeling something. Suddenly it felt like her insides were rearranged for a second and as she blinked the skyline changed, outside. "What... the hell was that!? It felt like my entire body was broken down and put back together in an instant." Tora asked feeling nauseated. Looks of surprise were all around as she was stared at. Torn was confused had she said something strange? That was just what she had felt." That is a... surprisingly apt analysis, you are right your body was broken down to pure energy and then reformed in the matter of seconds. We just moved at what humans call 'light speed' with the help of a spell called 'Recall.' I am surprised you were able to tell, perhaps you have some aptitude for magic." Sebas stated and there was murders about Torn perhaps being a better suit then first assumed about her. Torn didn't quite get it but supposed that she made a good impression. Looking out as she tried to steady her stomach a land woefully unfamiliar to her laid below. The plane came in for a landing, something told her she would be seeing a lot of this land from now on... What awaited her once she left this plane? Torn had so many worries and was damn well in a panic that she hid beneath the calm exterior. PrincessAlexiawas the sole heiress of a far away kingdom called Albion. Said kingdom was closely connected with the country of England. So connected, the royal family of said country were nothing but the guardians who made sure the entrance and very existence of the kingdom of Albion wasn't discovered at all by commoners. Yes, the kingdom of Albion. A fantasy-like place where lots of creatures, both human and non-human, coexisted. Whereas the royal family themselves were entirely human, there were those amongst them who had certain special abilities, all of them shredded in sheer mystery. However, Alexia once decided she had enough. Being a princess could be entirely tiresome. Especially when her parents usually tried to press her into marrying a totally despicable man. Prince Alabaster, a young man around his mid-twenties, and heir of an equally powerful, neighbor kingdom they had a peace treaty with. Her parents had had the marvelous idea of arranging a sudden marriage between said man and their own daughter, trusting that with said engagement their kingdoms would forever be allies. That was one of the many things the princess disliked about royalty in general. In a fit of sheer anger, Alexia left the country. She left everything behind and travelled to England, quickly crossing the portal that joined both realms. The England royal family let her pass with no difficulties once they realized who she was. And, since her company was guaranteed by her most loyal bodyguard, Rose Keith. She had at least other two personal bodyguards. But, since Rose had been the only one capable of catching her before leaving, she had decided to bring Rose with her. They practically had known each other since the moment the princess had been born, only separated by four years. So, for her, Rose was like an older sister, whom she loved quite a bit. After reaching the Earth, she somehow managed to change her name and all kinds of personal details. Thus enrolling both Alexia herself and her beloved guard in a common school, where she finally met her, Amino Torn. Both shared a deep preference towards all kind of take and gamer related hobbies. Be it anime series, new manga or simply video games, they eventually started sharing everything. Except the princess' true name and upbringing. For the entire world, Alexia would be known as Rachel Smith, a common, English exchange student who was still in the process of learning many new languages and other daily activities. However, no matter how many times Alexia acted in a weird manner, Torn would always be there for her. It wasn't exactly love, but Alexia eventually grew quite attached to her, even joining a new D&D club Torn had just come up with the idea of forming. All of its members, Rose included (mainly forced to join by the princess herself), eventually became her own family. Her lack of friends or any contact with life outside the palace back in her own kingdom had deprived her of all those beautiful things. Albeit tiny, Alexia had never been truly happy until she met Torn, and was welcomed into her life. But time didn't let her enjoy her new life much longer. It didn't take her parents too long to find her, and force her to come back. She knew that if she didn't, she would put all those she had just met in danger. So, Alexia quickly complied. But, a new surprise would be waiting her parents upon her return. One last favor she had asked from her very precious friend, the only thing which would prevent her from having to marry that foreign prince she hated so much. She was so happy Torn had accepted, she didn't know how she would be able to repay it. Although, it eventually backfired. Before Alexia could even realize it, her parents announced her a private party had gone after her beloved, and that Torn would soon be there in the kingdom, next to her. Even if they expected her to be happy, which she somehow pretended to be, the princess' insides were a complete turmoil. Torn would probably never forgive her. She should have properly explained to her everything: her status as a princess, her place in the foreign kingdom, and even the existence of Albion itself. But now it was too late. Torn would learn of everything. But in the worst way possible. So anxious she felt, Alexia had sneaked out of palace and, unable to help herself, had arrived to the place the private jet should be landing in far before the vehicle itself arrived. She wanted to hug her, to let Torn know everything would be alright. And to promise her she would help her return to her own home, should Torn so desire it. Of course Alexia knew faint things about Torn's family. Even she could tell her dear friend wasn't that content with the whole situation surrounding her own family. But she wondered if she would like and ever think of accepting this sudden offer and change on her life. It was too much. Even for Alexia. So she would totally understand if Torn never wanted to hear of her anymore. Finally, said plane landed on the ground. The sound and sudden breeze it made upon landing made her whole dress and long, blonde locks start dancing with no control. And yet, she didn't care. How could she pay any heed to such trifle thing at that moment? All she had allowed herself was asking Rose to be there with her. Torn already knew her beloved bodyguard as well. So Alexia imagined seeing the two of them there would help her feel at ease. Finally, that orange hair of hers could be seen coming out of the metallic, winged vehicle. Without thinking twice about it, Alexia rushed towards Torn, wrapping both arms around her thin figure in a quite, tight embrace." You are here! I missed you so much, Torn! And, really... I'm so sorry about all of this. Please... Will you ever forgive me?" Finally, the plane was coming in to the landing strip. Torn was talking with one of the maids and Seas about what the hell she should be expecting when she landed. She hadn't gotten a lot of information, and she was kind of in a daze. She had gotten the basic gist of things. There was magic, oh boy she was flipping her lid under that guise. Then there were other races, they gave her all sorts of bits, though most not helpful in the current situation. Finally, the plane came in for the touchdown. The wheels skidding on the landing strip before coming to a stop. Torn headed to the door, feeling weird, she 'felt' something like her body vibrating. She assumed it was just the residual sensation of flying or the planes motor. Tora was escorted out, Seas taking the lead as she stepped out, a bright white light hitting her. Hissing and thinking her cursed enemy the sun struck again. However, she felt strange, the sensation grew more intense as she gasped almost dropping but caching herself holding onto the sides of the stair ramp. She was dizzy barely keeping her footing it felt like an ocean's waves was battering down upon her. "Ms are you alright?" One of the maids behind her asked concerned. Torn shook her head regaining her composure. "I'm fine it just felt like... I got a like ten buckets of water thrown on my all at once, or maybe an ocean wave hit me? I Donna just got me off balance." Torn stated as she began to descend. The maids spoke in hushed though she did catch the words MANA absorption. Putting that on the back burner as a familiar taller golden haired figure hit her." Gah! Buggy today are we?" Tora commented with a chuckle before looking over Alexia's shoulder." Rose are you an elf, Rachel she's an elf right? HOLY SHIT YOU'RE A ELF! RACHEL SHE'S A ELF!" Tora pushed Alexia back and began shaking her. This was not one of fear but of utter excitement. This was Torn, blatantly ignoring the plea for forgiveness in favor of something that excited her. Torn had the habit of having a sort of mentality that defied logic, which all things considering. She had the mentality of a mage, not bound by conventional thinking or understanding. It took a minute for Torn to stop freaking out about Rose being a literal elf. As she did, she immediately smacked Alexia upside the head to some gasps. "And when were you planning on telling me? God Rachel I swear you keep trying to hide things that come back to bite you. I told you before I am on your side, but really what is all this about, I mean I get you're apparently a princess, I mean I kinda figured that out somewhat before. You really had that air of a rich girl about ya. This place is some sort of magical kingdom and that, and magic is real, elves are real, and all that stuff. By the way in our campaigns how was my depiction of royalty? I mean really if I knew all this stuff THINK OF THE GAMES! Also, important question, does this place get the internet of the other world. Because I swear to god if were without net here, were going to have some serious problems. Because come hell or high water I am keeping up with The Ancient Magus' Bride!" Tora seemed... unfazed by all this rather more relaxed. Truth be told the moment she saw Alexia she was genuinely at ease. Having assumed still this was some elaborate mob thing that they were just playing some trick on her to amuse themselves, but here Rachel was with an elaborate dress and a crown, so yeah she was starting to believe. Even if she already knew Torn, and could guess somehow how she would react, Alexia was still staring at her friend with a dumbfounded expression. She slowly parted from her arms, only to check she appeared to be more interested in the fact her bodyguard was an elf, rather than anything else. Was that truly what had caught her attention first? As she let out a faint giggle, Rose's pale countenance got stained in a bright, red color." I... I....eh." The poor bodyguard stuttered next, unable to decide what she should be responding. Unlike Alexia, Rose was more of a submissive nature. Of course, she was good regarding combat skills, but she was terribly shy, her mind often getting blocked when she was the center of attention." You can say it, Rose. She already saw you dear." The princess finally butted in, letting out a deep sigh." Yes. Indeed, I am. We are glad to have you here with us, Miss Torn." She finally said, bowing politely at their beloved friend. The next thing that could be heard coming from the princess' lips was a loud laughter. As Alexia wrapped an arm around Torn, she nodded, whilst flashing her with a bright, warm smile." Of course, we have such things. How do you think I'd have discovered my take side otherwise?" The princess finally said, shrugging. It was one of the few things they had adopted from Torn's realm. But they were glad they could use such advanced technology." The Ancient Magus' Bride? Is that a new anime recommendation? You have to show it to me!" As she exclaimed that, Alexia was suddenly reminded of the fact they were no longer in Torn's homeland. So, she shook her head, both of her hands now pressed on each of Torn's shoulders." Focus, Torn! That's not what you should be asking now!" After stating such words, she guided her friend until they arrived at the palace's gardens, where a small pergola had been placed. She guided both her bodyguard and dear friend until they were there, asking the rest of the staff not to molest them until later. "But... Your parents wanted to meet your... Eh..." One of the maids stammered next, seemingly unable to find a proper term to refer to Alexia's friend." The word you are looking for is "girlfriend". And, I don't care. We will go meet my parents at due time. Now, please, leave us alone. It's an order." A faint frown could be seen on her face as Alexia said that, trying for her tone to seem as firm as it was necessary to make the palace's staff comply. When they were finally left alone, Alexia stared back at Torn, flashing her with a warm smile again." Let me apologize once more, Torn. But I'm so glad you are here..." She finally said, hugging her friend once more." First off, is there anything you want to ask? I will properly respond to all of your questions before I properly explain what all of this is about." "Rose call me miss again and I'm smacking you upside the head harder than I did Rachel. God girl we were in the same club, I was the dm, were friends already good lord." Torn was almost instantaneous with her retort to being called 'Miss.' Torn didn't really like this whole, be all respectful and crap, they were friends. Treat one another like it. Then again she didn't know all about Albion and know what they considered proper etiquette here. Turning her attention back to Alexia." Uh as soon as you got out? Come on now, literally you need about an hour and a good anime, and you can become an Take." Tora retorted with a devious grin. One good anime and that would light that Take flame that just had you locked in your room not wanting to come out for months because you're watching so much anime. Torn however gave a very 'faked' gasp at her question. "Oh, my lord girl you have not seen it yet? The moment we get a chance we are going to have to marathon that! It's great, funny enough it relates to the existence of this kingdom, though likely it is based more around the history of the British Isles first being known as Albion. That also raises the question is Albion also the land of the FAE? In the anime it also says Albion is connected to the land of the FAE Air Na not." Tora states curious of the similarity's. A sudden intense throb in her head had her pressing her hand against her face. It was like when she stepped off but not quite, it felt more intense. It felt like eyes were on her from somewhere boring into her the moment she had said Air Na not. Shaking it off quickly she didn't feel right, but she wouldn't let it ruin the moment. Feeling Alexia's hands on her shoulders had her returning to reality. "And I should be asking...? Oh, shit your right! There's cat girls here right." Torn stated utterly not seriously as she stared right at Alexia as if to say 'you knew it was going to be like this.' Torn was not going to be serious about any of this, if she did, she worried she would panic. Torn followed Rachel without problem feeling underdressed but hey, it worked. Letting it all play out as Rachel wanted, she was princess and this was her home. She did take note of the 'molest them later.' That was indeed something to take note of and consider a warning in its own right. Feeling her friend hug her once more, god she was buggy today. "Alright I have but one question, is it just that dress or did you really get a nice ass?" Torn asked being completely unserious still. Sighing she looked down how to put this in words. As a DM she knew how to tell a story, make up characters but speaking from her own heart was a lot harder." Look Rachel, I am trying to process all this, I mean in the last few hours I have learned magic is real, you're a princess, Rose is an elf, were talking about that later by the way. I keep feeling like I am getting hit with tidal waves of something off and on, and I feel these big eyes on me ever since I said the name of the land of FAE's name, or at least my realms equivalent. Really though I don't have any current questions, I mean hell I'm barely keeping my head together right now. If I take this all seriously I get the feeling I might flip out. Plus I figure that most of the questions are likely to be answered throughout. Also, it's cute to hear you call me you're girlfriend. I mean either way it is correct, after all I am a girl, and I am your friend. I mean I'm not bending you over a table or anything so yeah. Let's just take this as it comes." Tora explains how she is feeling, and as per the usual Torn. She is going with the flow not against it. Trying to get her thoughts in order. Also, the fact she has to pretend that her and Rachel are dating. Whereas Rose's expression turned to one of slight worry for a second, both Alexia and her bodyguard burst into laughter right after that. That was what the two of them loved so much about Torn. She was so easy-going, and yet so trustworthy. It was right the opposite kind of most people in the kingdom. Well, their excessive use of good and proper manners was mainly due to the fact Alexia was the princess of the kingdom. But still, they had come to find that terribly tiring and bore some." Got it, Torn. I truly am glad you are finally here. There are so many things we want to show you. So many people we want you to meet..." Rose finally said, smiling kindly at her, as their beloved friend turned back to the beautiful topic of anime. Rose too had become addicted to those Japanese cartoons. Even if she had seen far fewer series than Alexia herself. But that was something Alexia would ask Torn to help her fix properly." An anime based on this kingdom? That's not surprising." Alexia finally said, listening carefully to her friend's next words, while tilting her head. Whereas Rose lacked of any kind of magical ability, Alexia was a sorceress herself. Still in training, or something of the sort. But she did have some magical skills, as well as vast knowledge regarding said matter. She was about to reply to the similarity between the anime Torn seemed to be addicted currently to, and her own kingdom. But basically, all Torn had said was practically true. A simple nod of hers would serve for Torn to notice such thing. Indeed, most fairy tales she had heard or read in the "real" world were closely based on their own realm. Probably a few humans had ventured themselves within the limits of the kingdom of Albion, despite the England's royal family high security on the matter. Thus, leaving all kind of details to be shared between generations as time passed. She didn't feel offended, but her family certainly would have. Which was why she often hid any kind of knowledge she had acquired while spending some precious time with her beloved friend." It is just as you said, Torn. The land of FAE Air Na not is real. Just like that new anime of yours seems to reflect." Alexia quietly mentioned, her expression getting slightly darker all of a sudden. Her next words would prove to me more of an advice, rather than mere information." I assume you have also heard the term of "Sleigh Peggy" before, right?" The yellow haired princess finally inquired, her stern expression being broken by Torn's next comments." Oh my, Torn. That's just like you! But... Should I use the term lover then? I think that might be a better fit." As she said that, she leaned towards her, playfully kissing Torn on her thin, delicious lips. It had been meant as a simple joke, but she couldn't deny she had deeply enjoyed the experience. It was understandable Rose had seen less than them. She actually had to train to fight and do things. Then again Torn had school, but she figured physical training took more out of you then sitting in a classroom." It's good to be here?" Tora said seeming to ponder something but again shrugged it off. She was wondering where 'here' technically was. Was it another dimension, world, or what, though she chose to leave that rabbit hole for another time. Torn chose to listen more intently to Alexia. This was a chance to gain some information she didn't have before. So Air Na not was real that was something to keep in mind. It led to the possibility of Titania the queen of the FAE, and Oberon the king of the FAE being real entity's. Which was short to say 'don't piss these people off.' Tora was going to respond to the term Sleigh Peggy and explain what she knew of it. When the peck on her lips game and the devious grin went right back at her. "Oh, Missy you're working your way right to a smacked bottom. Keep that up and the only thing you're going to be doing is screaming my name." Tora said in retort to the taller girl. She was known to be somewhat play girlish. Though few people took her seriously, considering not many liked the idea of dating a Fulani girl. Torn still flirted with everyone though it never seemed overly serious. "As for Sleigh Peggy what I know is that a Sleigh Peggy is a rare type of magical caster born with the ability to both generate and absorb a large quality of magical energies, the cost of this being a shorter lifespan. Though from the anime there's reason to that there short life is only if there not properly cared for, so the short life thing might just be in my realm due to- GOD DAMN IT WILL YOU THINK STOP IT!? EVER SINCE I GOT OFF THE PLANE!" Tora suddenly stopped what she was saying and started flailing around above her head as if shooing things off." How the hell can you both stand there with all these little flying ant eater sheep things all over the place!?" Torn questioned, and it would be clear for Alexia less so for Rose. Torn could see the FAE. With a little focus so could Alexia by channeling MANA to her eyes. Torn however seemed woefully unaware as to why. Things would likely begin to click, she felt things hitting her like waves, she was seeing the FAE, and they were flocking to her. It's good to be here? That was indeed quite a good question. Both Alexia and Rose pondered about it for a second, knowing their response might help Torn make up her mind. Of course their friend would always be free to return to her own realm, should she ever wish for it. But still, Rose was the first to respond. And she decided to do it in a quite honest manner. The poor guard had always been unable to lie, after all." It isn't bad. I don't know how it might be from the princess' side. But, for me, I'm truly happy of being here. Your world seems to be a bit overwhelming, at least at first. Even if the royal family is a bit strict sometimes, we don't have too many things we can say we miss. And, being in charge of protecting princess Alexia's life... Well, I can't complain." Rose finally said, her gaze even glimmering for a second, when she finally noticed she had been talking for quite a long time."Oh, but... That's only my opinion. I also liked your world, Torn. You know we both did." As the female bodyguard said that, Alexia couldn't help but giggle." It's ok, Rose. You are honest. I always liked that part of you. Of course Torn, you know you are free to either stay here or leave. That won't change anything, much less our bonds of friendship towards you. I'd just like for you to meet my parents, given you decided to accept my request. And truly, thank you! You just saved me! But, if you feel like coming back to your world afterward, no one will actually stop you. I just want you to bear that in mind." Her next words made the princess let out a loud chuckle. Whereas she didn't take Torn seriously either, for she knew Torn was kind of flirty, she was still unaware of the fact Torn was a FTA female. Even if she knew, she wouldn't likely mind. Alexia wasn't one to pay attention to such trifle details. As a pansexual woman herself, physical appearances weren't that important for her. And of course, if anything, her knowing that fact would only serve for Alexia to find Torn even more interesting than before. She was about to respond, when Torn's words made her froze. It didn't take her a second to focus a tiny bit of MANA and use it on her own eyes, so she could see all the tiny, winged beings literally stalking and flying all around the young woman's face. Rose remained unable to see them, but she somewhat understood what Torn meant. She might not be able to detect it at first sight, but Alexia was a sorceress. Thus, she knew Torn was a Sleigh Peggy from the very first moment their eyes met. And she, too, had put a special effort to properly inform Rose about that." I'm certain you also know Sleigh Peggy are commonly loved by the fairies. I'm surprised an anime could show such a vast and accurate knowledge on the matter though. But, that makes my explanation a bit easier for you to understand. To sum it up, Torn. Yes, you are a Sleigh Peggy. And yes, those tiny creatures flying all around you are attracted to you. Fairies, I think that's what you would usually call them....right?" Torn growled at the things as some were invading her personal space a lot. All sorts of creatures were now poking there heads out looking at Torn. This would take some getting used. Having these things constantly around her. Though she wondered how many talked, the kinda beings she would meet. This was going to be interesting at least." Great, great, so I'm a freaking Sleigh Peggy ain't that just peachy. Well call me Chose and show me to where Elias is." Torn commented still shooing these things away from her. She knew that Alexia and Rose didn't understand the meaning of the comment. Yet she wasn't going to explain it, they would understand it later." Well if I am a Sleigh Peggy it does explain why I have seen things since I was little." Tora stated stopping shooing them away. Allowing one to land on her head and nestle in. Torn hadn't quite talked about this, but she had seen them for a long time, never in so great of numbers. She sighed giving up getting them out of her personal space. "I wouldn't call them Faeries, I call them Neighbors. If this world is anything like the anime had suggested, I don't want to be rude to them. After all Faeries is such an unrefined way to refer to them. Especially since I doubt they would leave me alone. Though perhaps the anime was made by someone from this world? Would explain how accurate it is." Torn stated pointing out a definite possibility of why the anime knew about the FAE and about Sleigh Peggy. Returning to the earlier parts of the conversation. "I guess it is, but it's the same, when you live your whole life one way you get used to it. So a new place with all new things would be overwhelming. You are under the estimation I have much reason to leave. My pause was more of I am not entirely clear as to 'where' here is. It's going to take some time for me to get all this down, like the difference of this world and mine. So don't worry, I don't really have a reason to leave unless told to. Not that I got much in the way of a place to return to. So if you want me to meet your parents lead the way. Let's get the awkward family dinner out of the way and see on a scale of one to ten how much they hate me. Also, that big white cat, seems kinda out of place compared to all the other FAE around." Torn commented leaving off with speaking of a large white cat FAE, she could tell it was. There was something ethereal about it. Torn had no idea if it held some significance, but she had spotted it once or twice when they were walking from the plane. It just seemed out of place, at first she thought the castle had a pet cat, or it was there to keep out rats. However, the feeling it gave off was a bit more intense. Whereas none of the two had actually watched the anime Torn was referring to, the princess somehow got what she meant. Of course, she didn't know said Chose girl and said Elias man were supposed to be, respectively, a bride and a groom. But she did understand the Chose character must be a Sleigh Peggy as well." I'm still quite surprised. Even if you are indeed some sort of queen bee who draws fairies and all sorts of similar creatures, amongst your kind, it's not that common for you to have the ability of seeing them. That makes you even more special, Torn. I'm sure it will be the same for them. So, if the anime is as accurate as you just said, I shouldn't need to remind you to be extremely careful. The fairies will try to take you to their land, sooner or later. They will try to catch your attention with all sorts of pretty words. So... Don't get fooled by them. I know it would take them a huge effort anyway. But I needed to tell you that." Alexia finally concluded, flashing Torn with a gentle, relaxed smile for once. Both the princess and the bodyguard tilted their heads, appearing to consider their friend's latter words." It is a possibility. Many of our villagers have escaped to the other side. So it's not something that surprising to imagine they would eventually write about their own homeland. In fact, most tales include quite accurate facts of our own realm. As of where you are... This is a different world. Remember how England was previously called Albion? Well, this is like an alternate identity of those very same islands. I would say you are in a different realm. But we do share the same timeline your realm has." Alexia finally concluded, trying her best to put into words what she actually knew. It was difficult even for her, since she had never known of the existence of Torn's world until she met her for the first time." Neighbors... I suppose that's a way of calling them. I am not that familiar with those creatures, despite being a sorceress myself. It's true they tend to help you cast your spells and canalize your MANA. But still, I don't seem to be that loved by any of them. Quite the opposite, in actuality." The yellow haired princess finally said, nodding at Torn's next words." You will have all the time you might need. Don't worry about that. As for the family dinner, as you just called this uncomfortable meeting, I wanted to prevent it from happening at all. But, I suppose there would be no point in you being here then. Please follow me. Let's get this over with quickly, so we can catch up with that new anime you seem to like so much." Upon saying that, both Alexia and Rose got up and started walking towards the palace in a quite slow pace, so that Torn could freely catch them whenever she wished. Torn rolled her eyes at Alexia's warning. She figured that was the case, even the fey in legends and stories were not the nicest of creatures all the time. They had their own intentions and if she was as the anime depicted yeah they would all want a piece of her sweet ass. "Yeah, yeah, yeah, I get it Rachel, I get it. Just don't be overly surprise when I have a sexy fairy girl bent over, and I am fucking her senseless." Torn said in a teasing tone. Truth was she didn't even know if any of them where humanoid enough to fuck." Alright that makes sense, as much as my brain is able to process at the moment at least." Tora said admitting she was still trying to keep up with all this. It was a lot to take in all at once. "Yeah and it looks like I am loved enough for us both." Torn said with a bit of a growl staring up at the one making a nest of her head. Torn was just thought to herself to let it go, just let it go she has shit to do. Troy nodded strolling up next to Alexia and without a speck of hesitation grabbed her ass, making DAMN sure Rose saw her do it." I have to agree let's get this over with. Guess I better play the role of a 'lover' then. By the way it isn't just the dress you really do have a nice ass." Tora said with a chuckle getting frisky with her. She didn't have to pretend there was sexual attraction there. There always had been, Torn wasn't the most 'picky' people when it came to sex. She was when it came to friends or people she actually liked. Sex however she would fuck anyone she found attractive that would fuck a FTA. Torn wondered if Alexia knew about that part of Torn yet, she hadn't really kept it a secret, but it didn't really come up either. The princess eagerly nodded at her words, until her expression got blank all of a sudden. She had forgotten a tiny detail in her brief explanations from earlier." Oh... I didn't tell you this yet. My true name is Alexia. Not Rachel. Don't get me wrong, I don't mind being called Rachel, and you can call me like that all you want. But, I just thought you should know it." She finally said, resuming her walking until her ass was firmly grabbed by her friend. Rose's pale cheeks turned into a bright red color upon saying this, even panicking a tiny bit, not really knowing how to properly react to her friends' weird teasing. But Alexia seemed nothing but incredibly pleased. And even a tiny bit aroused. She wasn't a picky one either. She felt attracted towards Torn, both physically and mentally speaking. The fact Torn had an extra gift no other girl had would only arouse her even more." You keep that up, and I might be the one who ends up bent over. Actually, I chose you as my "lover" for a reason. I wouldn't mind you taking my virginity, Torn." Alexia finally said, blinking an eye at her as she teasingly spanked one of her lower cheeks. After that, she rushed towards the palace, eventually going inside. When the three of them were already together, Rose guided them until they reached a pair of huge, wooden doors. Which would lead them to the main room of the castle, where most events usually took place. And where her parents would be sitting in their respective thrones." Here we are. Are you ready, Torn? I'm afraid we'll have to leave the fun for later." It still wasn't clear whether she had been just kidding before, or if Alexia was indeed serious. But she seemed to be quite attached to Torn. One way, or another. Torn rolled her eyes, of course her name was Alexia, Torn had gathered that from the flight. After all they all called her that and considering this was her homeland she figured. Alexia was a fine name but so was Rachel. "It's up to you really, I mean I can call you, Alexia, Rachel, Slut, whore, cum dump or so on, but I think the last three are more suited behind closed doors." Tora said in a teasing tone as they walked. Turning corner after corner. Se could feel Rose's face flush as she grabbed onto Alexia's ass. She was about to speak up to that as they arrived at the doors. All she wanted to do right now was say 'the fuck we will,' and pick her and find the nearest vacant room and well do as one would expect. Torn pinched Alexia's ass as hard as she could." You owe me one time raw after a comment like that." Tora said through gritted teeth as she smiled wide. Turning to the door ready to be let in by guards and maybe someone who would announce there arrival."Let's get this over with, you have a very 'long' and 'hard' night ahead of you." Torn growled suggestively releasing her not really sure how her parents would react to her hand on their daughters ass. Not even Alexia remembered how she had come up with a name such as Rachel. She recalled hearing it in a TV series she used to watch during her childhood. So perhaps that was the reason why she had decided to use it as her nickname. However, that name was as good as other. All she had wanted to do was to have a brand-new start, and get rid of her identity as princess Alexia for quite a while. Even if the fun didn't last as long as she had hoped, she loved every single second she spent next to Torn and their D&D club. It had served to greatly cheer her up, to say the least." Cumdump.... I think I like that one." Alexia finally said, letting out a faint giggle, right before quite a loud moan escaped through her lips. As she nodded at Torn's words, eager to fulfill her promise as soon as she could, a voice was already introducing the two of them as Princess Alexia of the kingdom of Albion and Amino Torn. Letting out a deep sigh, she motioned for Torn to enter next to her, as she held her friend's hand, hoping that would help to convince her parents. It probably would, one way or another. The main reason of this whole ordeal they had been forced to go through, was Alexia's mother. Whereas both the king and the princess had pretty open minds, the queen was rather ancient. A marriage between members of the same sex... That was something she found hard to deal with. Amongst many other things. Thus, the one behind the whole idea of the arranged marriage plans for Alexia had been her own mother, afraid her daughter would choose a wrong path. And yet, Alexia had ended up going to the Earth and choosing a mundane woman as her future partner. She couldn't be more displeased with her daughter, but had decided to comply, after her husband supported Alexia's cause. What the queen didn't know was that it had mainly been her fault. If she had chosen a better fit for Alexia, instead of that sexist, idiot prince. Or simply leaving her daughter alone, none of that would have ever happened." So.... This is your supposed lover, Alexia?" The older woman finally said when both the princess and Torn reached the throne. "She couldn't be any less fitting for your position as the future ruler of the kingdom of Albion." Upon seeing Alexia already rolling her eyes and getting ready to retort, the king smiled at the three of them, and flashed Torn with a gentle smile. "Let her be, honey. If they are in love, we cannot do anything about it. It's time for our daughter to take her own decisions. That being said, tell us something about you, Lady Amino. Where do you come from? How is your world? We have never been there, so forgive us if we happen to be overly curious." The older man finally said, hoping that would serve for both Alexia and her mother to calm down. Everyone knew mother and daughter had never been able to get along. Torn hadn't made mention of it but the D&D club was her sanctuary. Her home life was shit it was the one thing she belonged. Where she felt wanted in the least in a long while. Though she wouldn't let Alexia know that the time they spent together was the best part of her life. She wasn't looking forward to graduation and loosing all her friends. Smiling at her giggle and moan. It was nice to hear that escape her lips. Breathing deep as the doors opened, focusing inward. Torn went in what she called DM mode. Torn was fond of giving her characters a great deal of flare. Stepping in Torn carried herself tall, confident, her stride matched Alexia's, yet there was not a wasted movement in her stride. A stare forward as if looking to the future not to what was around her. Staring a throne and those upon them, she was no fool with what Alexia had done she was in line for that throne. She would be judged harshly by all those around them. She could feel the eyes of everyone on her, judging every move. Torn heard what could very well be her mother-in-law. Torn could tell it was her that she would have issues with. Alexia's mother very clearly didn't like her and that would likely be hard to change. Seeing Alexia about to open her mouth, that would make this a lot harder if they started fighting. However, her father seemed to have the same thing in mind as Torn. Torn made a clear move to give both of them the curtsy that they would deserve." Pardon the suddenness of my existence. From what I have come to understand my existence seems to of been an unexpected happening. Please, if I am even remotely to become a daughter to you, then call me Torn. I hail from the land of Japan, an island region off the coast of china. My full name is Amino Torn as you likely know, Amino means Heavenly Plain, and Torn means Tiger in my native tongue. Japan is considered the focus point of much in the way of entertainment in my world. Anime, gaming, and much of the such often comes from my nation in some form. Truthfully as my world is largely unaware of Albion's existence. We often take tales of the things this world has as mere legends." Tora spoke with respect, her voice clear, precise, she held no doubts in her words. They had almost a commanding tone, Torn had hones her vocal skills over the time of being a DM, she had dreamed of being a voice actress. Breathing deeply as she raised her hand up to her face holding out her hand." I must admit though in this realm the Ariel's are vastly more plentiful as are a number of the FAE. From what I have come to understand I am curious as to see how long before word spreads of my existence. As I am to understand it Air Na not, the land of the fey will take great in me. So sorry for the trouble I might cause. Ah, forgive me I suppose a more proper explanation and introduction from me should be given, shouldn't it? Forgive me I'm still not quite used to dealing with people in a proper royal setting. I am Amino Torn, your highnesses, and I am not a human, well not quite, I suppose I'm closer to a fey than a human. I am what you call a Sleigh Peggy I believe?" Tora said giving the Ariel perched on her hand an Eskimo kiss before letting it flutter off. If they had paid attention to the fey creatures around her, Torn had three Ariel's fluttering around her quite happily. Pestering her with 'were next's' and such. Torn was giving the royals before her, her proper attention as they deserved. Torn had never mentioned it indeed, and of course there was no way for Alexia to be remotely aware of such fact. She didn't even know anything about Torn's family nor had any clue of how harsh things were at home for her dear friend. If she had known, she probably would have invited Torn to go with her to Albion rather sooner. She already loved her best friend more than she should, despite her lame attempts at concealing such thing. In fact, she wouldn't mind at all, or rather, she would be extremely pleased if Torn and her had more intimate encounters some time. However, she was aware of how serious and out of the ordinary that could be for some people. Even if Albion relations between people of the same sex weren't that well regarded, even if they had been made legal a few years ago. It was one of the few things she had managed to change from her status as a princess. But she didn't fret over it too much either. She was determined to make an even bigger effort on the matter once she was queen, so that anyone could love whoever they wished with no fear. While she was thinking of such things, Alexia noticed the change of demeanor in Torn. She would never mention it in front of her parents, but now Torn herself appeared more of a princess than Alexia herself. Wasn't she getting too serious? Maybe Alexia shouldn't have made it seem that serious from the start. Or was it because she was in a place which was entirely unknown to her? One way or another, she barely was able to endure a faint giggle escaping from her lips. She loved that pose of hers, although she had expected Torn would act as usual. The blonde princess stared at Torn with quite a dumbfounded expression during the whole time. She seemed almost like a different person. Of course, she was familiar with it in part, she was a partner of Torn's in the D&D club and was used to hearing her narrate their adventures and voice her characters. The way she modified her voice to adapt to each situation, just as if she was a professional voice actress, had always left her severely impressed. To the point of even forgetting to argue with her mother, as she would usually end up doing. Although her father was also one to thank for it. Both the queen and the king had been left speechless as well. Not only the tone, but the sudden courtesy that woman gifted them with had left the two of them totally frozen. If they were not aware of where Torn actually was coming from, they would have probably guessed she was also a member of a royal family. "Well then, Torn it is. It's always a pleasure meeting one of Alexia's friends. Especially such a close one as yourself." The queen finally said, frowning, but nodding politely at the foreigner's words. "Let us introduce ourselves properly first, as well. I'm king Richard, feel free to call me merely Richard, if you may. And here's queen Olivia, my beloved wife and Alexia's step-mother. Unfortunately her biological mother died when she gave birth to her. But, given how close you are, you probably knew that already." Richard finally said, unaware of the fact Alexia hadn't actually shared such facts with Torn yet. Then, both stared at her, noticing the small, winged beings flying all around her. "Sleigh Peggy? Oh, we are indeed pleased to meet one of your kind then. I'm surprised you are aware of that term though. Maybe one of your tales features fairies and Sleigh Peggy as well?" The king finally inquired, while the queen stared at Torn with a curious expression. "You then surely know you must be extremely careful. Fairies can be troublesome at times." Olivia finally concluded, starting to think maybe Torn wasn't such a bad choice for their daughter's future wife, after all. For multiple reasons. Torn couldn't help it she thrived on such theatrics, it was why she chose to be the dm. It allowed her to craft grand characters and worlds she alone controlled. To see the royal faces before her dumbfounded. That was a true treat for her. She could tell the displeasure of her mother that Torn was even here. As such this was a perfect time to put forth that Torn could act quite a bit like a noble. That and she could perhaps ease some of the tensions relating to her presence. Someone who held a voice that could stun kings and queens into silence was something on its own a trait to look for. After all considering what she had gathered since she got here she might be queen one day. Torn met the queens gaze as she spoke. There was confidence in her eyes she wouldn't back down easily." And it is a pleasure to meet you I do see partly where she has got her looks from. It seems it is quite the hereditary trait." Tora said still being polite. Torn shifted her attention to the king. Listening intently to his words. A tiny flinch showed she had heard something she had not expected. "To be honest I did not know that. To be truthfully honest I learned of this land, of you all and the very nature of the world today. A number of secrets were kept from me relating to the truth. However, I do not blame Alexia for it. Simply coming here I can tell why the secrets where kept. If knowledge of this place, and the power it holds got out to the public. Panic and war would likely be the first response as humanity has often shown to react negatively to things we don't understand. That secrecy was to protect not just this place but me, so I have quite a bit to learn still." Tora explained not hiding the fact that Alexia had lied to her about who she was and where she came from. However, this was also for her sake. To state she did not blame her for lying to her and understood the necessity of it. As they inquired about the nature of her subspecies Torn nodded to the king. "Yes we have a few, the term is actually a part of an ancient language, as well as we have stories of Albion as well. I know the meaning of my own people as well it is 'little people' or the equivalent of today's 'fairy.' Which funny enough suits me fine." Tora stated quite contently but she now had worried. She knew her kind were not healthy, this was going to be a danger. This place was a font of magic so she would have to consider how to slow the tide of power in her body. Then her mother stepped in and inquired about how aware she was." Yes I am quite aware, that varies might not have the best intents however they are not all like that. If you simply assume there ill intents then you may well begin a war. Not to mention my presence could be a catalyst for a more peaceful situation with the fairy's. After all is my species not the children loved by the fey?" Torn counted that her uses might well outweigh the danger. She could be a beacon for a union between Albion and the fey. Which on its own would surely be worth far more than a noble brat. Alexia held her breath as she waited for her friend to deal with her parents on her own. Normally, she would have been afraid of any bitter remarks coming from her mother’s part. But, given how her relationship had been with her lately, maybe Torn, as an outsider, would be even more skilled than her, thus being able to handle her even better. It wouldn’t be that strange. Of course the princess would make sure her friend wasn’t insulted nor anything of the sort in any way. But she’d remain in silence meanwhile, unless she was strictly required to intervene or felt her words were actually needed. Both the king and the queen of Albion seemed quite surprised when they heard Torn’s words. It seemed they both had guessed Alexia would have told her lovereverythingabout where she came from and her own life and relatives. But that didn’t seem to be the case. Even if Torn stated a suitable reason for it. They felt both glad and a bit suspicious about the supposed relationship between the two of them and wondered just how close those two actually were. But none of them mentioned anything about it. Alexia too lowered her gaze, feeling quite embarrassed. The princess couldn’t help but think she should have informed Torn about everything before dragging her all the way there. “Well, Alexia has always been quite responsible. So I can see her lying for the sake of both mankind and her people. I am certain she will make sure to properly make it up for you and inform you of all the peculiarities of Albion. As well as of what is exactly expected of a future heir to the throne.” Alexia’s father finally said, trying to make things calmer and more comfortable for all of them once more. He wouldn’t dwell too much in the whole matter, probably. But the queen would probably talk with Alexia privately at a later time. The queen fell silent after Torn’s words, as the king slowly nodded at them. “You are indeed right. Your kind are known to be deeply loved by all the fey. Let’s just hope that helps us understand each other in an easier manner.” Alexa’s father finally said, smiling at the two of them. “You can go back to your own plans for the day. Let’s meet later. I suppose you’ll be attending the feast we have prepared in your honor, right Ms. Torn?” After those words were spoken, Alexia grabbed Torn’s hand and rushed out of there, waiting until the guards closed the huge doors behind them to let out a deep breath. “Wow... You did amazing, Torn.” The blonde princess finally commented, flashing her friend with a bright, honest smile.

My friend was a princess_ Ok this is happening... (Chaotic & Fabs)|rating:4.0

[Covert Revulsion] Passion does not wither over time. [Papanomics]

Katsuki had long-lived a life of solitude and discipline. At the age of 10, she lost both parents, and instead of being sent to some whore house [which she was thankful for everyday] they had sent her to a Shinto shrine to become a holy priestess. Since that day, she was taught to wake up early, pray every day to thank Kai and be thankful for the life that was gifted with. So from then on, she was expected to treat the sick, pray for those that died that may they pass onto the next life in pure peace and tranquility. She was pretty content with her life, yet she was aware of the evils that were born into this world, and thus, was taught on how to use bow and arrows for at least some defense, as well as a better chance of survival. Today was a day like any other really, she woke up early at sunrise, bathed, dressed, and went off to pray and tend to some sickly people in the village. Katsuki was a young woman of exactly seventeen, her hair a silvery white, odd and rare for her pure bloodline. She had been rumored to be a descendant of a celestial maiden. Her skin was creamy, smooth and flawless, her eyes a bright, hazel/honey hue. Her garbs consisted of a white kimono top, hakama bottoms, her feet covered by white socks and wooden sandals. She was expected not to enjoy herself in life, but to strictly eat food that wasn't considered luxurious. She was expected to be humble, helpful, and calm at all times, devoting her life to their Kai. Her light eyes were closed, her body kneeled before the shrine in front of her. Her hands were held up in the sign of prayer, head tilted forward slightly. Furthermore, her countenance bared nothing but serenity and quietness. She always thought of her best friend when she was younger, a young boy that had been just about her only friend. They had been so close... they played within the forest, spent time playing hide and seek... just about everything. It was that day she had been drawn away by a rickshaw, gazing towards the young boy that stood there, seeming saddened as ever as she gradually couldn't see him anymore. It had been quite a bit of time since then. The boy for the most part had become a man and was doing things to help his village survive, day by day. He would never forget the young, silver-haired beauty that he'd play with, moving swiftly like a ghost in the winds. He hoped to one day meet her again, he felt it was in his destiny. Near Katsuki's shrine, a troublesome group of violent pillagers began a raid over the surrounding lands. Many as they were, their strength relied mostly on their ring leader, an angry man they all called Ring Leader. As the bandits stormed by foot, or mounted on angered horses, they took lives, gold, women, children, jewelry, artifacts and anything to fancy their hunt. Their violent wave of terror was moving swiftly near Katsuki's hallowed shrine. "Priestess Katsuki!" The young woman quickly looked up, catching sight of a middle-aged woman carrying a crying child. The woman was crying herself. The priestess quickly stood up, hearing the cries of distress from the villagers as they were raided. Katsuki motioned the woman into the shrine, as she moved to grab her weapon, a lance. She would fight off these filthy bandits that dared to pillage her home. She quickly made her way to the gate, already seeing them make their advance to the shrine. Luckily the bandits had broken up into smaller groups to cover more ground and eventually do more harm. Where was the armies and militia's men? Nowhere to be found. About ten men looked over at the young woman, each grinning in their own sickly way." Hey, woman... move out of the way, and we'll only hurt ya'little bit... stay in the way, and we'll cut your belly open lovely..." Unfortunately Ring Leader was with them, and he seemed the calmest of the bunch. "Take her out." He said, motioning with his head. One of the bandits drew a sickle shaped blade and raced over towards the priestess, obviously trying to hurt her, his blade came down hard after a monkey like jump to gain momentum. Her calm, light eyes remained on them, her face solemn despite the pure anger and bitterness she felt towards this pathetic excuse for people. She revealed her lance, and twirled it expertly as the sickle like weapon made its way to strike her. She sliced her weapon horizontally, knocking the weapon out of the way. Furthermore, she quickly laced her lance around the chain, before she pulled it with surprising force in hopes of causing the bandit to lose his hold on the chain. The villain lost grip of his weapon, surprised by her power and stance. He landed down in a squatting position, angered. "Just who the hell are you woman? Some sort of possessed wore no doubt." He eyed her and smiled, licking his lips. "Your body's going to feel every inch of my lust!" He said, rushing at her as the Ring Leader tried to signal him to stop. This woman was much more than what she seemed, his man would probably kiss his life goodbye in several moments if the priestess wasn't merciful. She slipped the entangled chain off of the staff of her lance, and dropped it beside her. Katsuki watched as the fool immediately burst off towards her, and this made her almost pity the fool. Yet, her duties weren't to kill... she was killing to protect... It made her feel rather torn at the thought, but she had to act quick. Kill or be killed. Katsuki quickly thrust the sharp blade through the man's chest, twisting it before she pulled it out. Blood coated the weapon, and she tried desperately to ignore it. The attacker's life ended in moments, too many vital organs destroyed. The bandits watched, some angered, others frightened, as one even smiled, apparently enjoying the gore. The remaining nine were not about to try to take her on alone. Six of the Ring Leader's goons rushed over, each holding a different weapon than the last. One with a two bladed, poorly crafted hand claw on his left arm only, another with a typical bronze blade, the third held a sickle, almost the same as the last attacker, the fourth a simple, yet deadly battle rod, the fifth held a long blade he would have to carry with both arms and the sixth a couple of short knives. Although if isolated the bandits may have been easily beaten, a six against one fight wasn't very compelling to anyone on the short side. Katsuki tried to think over what she could do in order to try to receive as manyminorinjuries as possible. She knew she wouldn't leave here without one... six against one wasn't an appealing fight to her, but she was otherwise alone. She kept her herself leveled, inhaling deeply as she held her lance in a stance. It disdained her at the fact she knew they wouldn't charge one at a time. "P-PRIESTESS!!" Yelled a strong male voice from a rather near distance. The sounds of a swooping wind took over as a large axe was hurled down, embedding its sharp edge onto the ground, causing the men to re-think their step patterns. A male, about a year or two, perhaps three years older than Katsuki rushed over as quickly as he could. He didn't have the time to decipher her face, he was mainly worried about the shrine and the lives of the surrounding innocents. With small pieces of armor hardly covering him, this black haired man walked towards his weapon and pulled it out after a second of biding. "Attack what villages you must." The axe left a wide marking on the ground below them. "But pass this line, and you enter the village I live in. "With this priestess... we'll turn you... into that..." He tilted his head, motioning towards the already fallen bandit, a red ribbon dangled from his head, the colors were exact, the same colors of the crest of her best friend's family. "I am Hero Kururugi (Step up... if you want to be sliced in half..." The axe knocked her out of the intense gaze she shared upon the approaching bandits. It relieved her at the fact that someone was intervening. She shifted her gaze the young man that dropped himself a mere short distance from her. She arched a brow, gazing at the rather familiar man that made his presence clear. Katsuki tightened her grip on her weapon for a moment, part of her wanting to laugh as he gestured to the fallen foolish companion of the group. She didn't take a glance at the man's face... but merely kept a wary eye on the group. The villainous men glared at the man, almost wanting to eat him alive. "So, you have a big blade thing... you think you can beat us with that? We'll cut your head off, and have your dying face watch this little woman take all of our seeds!!" As quick as a zephyr, the young man had swiped his weapon, a quick breeze blowing as the speaker had lost his ability to speak, and eventually, his head but rolled off his left shoulder, his body kneeling with little reaction. The youth hopped back towards the priestess, his blade not even tainted with blood. "That was your warning gentlemen. Leave our area. Or your life will end by the end of the hour." He glanced over at the priestess, she did look familiar. Hopefully he hadn't frightened her with his quick decapitation, but he couldn't stand the thoughts of what the crook was talking about. A couple of the bandits high-tailed it and ran, much to Hero's content. However, some were just upset, and they rushed towards the odd coupling standing in their way. Katsuki kept calm, and on the defense side. She felt herself inwardly flinch at the foul words the man spoke, but couldn't help but find herself relieved that he was neatly dealt with by her savior. She kept her stance, the priestess casting a glance at the youth before her, yet she avoided much eye contact. Furthermore, she didn't wait for the men to fully appear, since she wanted this to be quick and easy. Once the remaining two bandits were left, she walked towards one as he advanced, and she whirled her weapon before she struck the man's chest, before she pulled the weapon out from the body. Hero figured the woman could likely take care of herself. She was doing quite alright before he even arrived. But it was time for these games to be over with, Hero took his axe and ran past his enemy right towards the Ring Leader who swiftly brought down his sword onto Hero. The two battled for nearly a minute, blades clashing, each evading the attempts of the other and keeping themselves on their feet. Eventually the Ring Leader cut Hero's arm, causing his hand to open wide and release his axe. Then the Ring Leader's sharp blade invaded Hero's body, plunging through his side after Hero attempted to evade the attack." Fool! You see now what happens to little men who think lightly of us?" Yelled the leader, shoving his blade deeper. Hiro grumbled in pain as the steel was pushed deeper into his body, the edge already exiting his back. He couldn't reach his axe, nor beat the bandit this way. He reached for the bandit's wrist and pulled him closer, tightly grabbing on to him." What are you doing? Moron! Let go of me!" Yelled the bandit, reaching to a knife he held at his waistline with his free hand. Katsuki dealt with the weaker bandits, preoccupied among them. She managed to receive several minor wounds when her back was turned, one on her shoulder and the other on her arm. The priestess grunted, her muscles strained a bit as she pulled her weapon out of the corpse and ground. She flicked off the blood and dirt, before gazing up at the man that helped her, and the Ring Leader. She quickly approached, fearing for the young man as he was struck and bleeding heavily. Adrenaline pumped through her veins as she clutched her lance. She sped towards him, hoping to reach him in time to end the bandit's life. She wielded back her lance before thrusting it towards the bandit. The bandit's blade was merely inches away from Hero's shoulders when her weapon smashed into him. The Ring Leader's life was over quickly, however Hero struggled to remain standing, eventually falling to his knees, breathing heavily as he reached for the hilt of the sword, slowly pulling it from his body with a long and painful grunt. The blood oozed out of him quickly, the metal bouncing off the floor. "Thank you... thank you very much." He said, looking up at her as his eyes narrowed. "I... I know you." He tried applying pressure to the deep wound, but it was no good. She kicked the bandit off of her weapon with her foot, before she quickly turned to face the wounded man. Katsuki's eyes widened at the sight of him, and she uttered his name in disbelief and amazement that she was actually seeing the boy from years ago... "Hero..." she whispered breathlessly. Satsuki quickly moved to help him up, fearing for the young man's life. "Let me help you," she insisted, clear fear and concern for his life with how badly he was wounded. She quickly brought him towards the shrine, calling out to the priest's of the shrine to help her. Hero smiled lightly, "I thought it was you. Amazing. You became a priestess. A good one too..." He murmured as the priests tried to help her lug him into the shrine. "I'm bleeding an awful lot. You know... I thought about you for a long, long time. Eventually I started thinking you were just a nice dream. Then I actually started believing that thought." He was brought in, his blood dripping, leaving a solid crimson trail." We must get this injured man out of the public eye..." whispered on of the priests, his weapon is still outside too..." Katsuki couldn't resist smiling at him. "Thanks," she murmured, smiling at him. They quickly brought Hero onto a cot, and she demanded that they bring bandages, water, and herbs. "Don't worry about that," she insisted as she took a seat and began to pull aside his top, to have better access to the wounds. She dabbed them clean, taking the herbs and mashing them into a paste. She gazes at him, smiling gently. "Have you really thought of me?" she asked, a little too excited. She has always thought of him, wondering how he was doing and all... "I did." He answered truthfully. "I didn't know what happened to you... and I cried a lot over it." He wasn't trying to be emotional or anything like that, he was just speaking the truth with her. "You and I were very close. I always thought of you somewhat like a wife. But as children." He paused, "You know what I mean." His skin was quickly becoming colder. The fact that he was losing a ton of blood could no longer be overlooked. "Why here?" He asked quietly, "Of all the places in the world you could be... why here?" Katsuki quickly tended to his wounds, working the paste among the open wounds before she waited a bit. Slowly she stitched the major ones, before wrapping all the wounds all together. She hoped he would be alright, he has gowned paler from the loss of blood. It made her smile with happiness by his words. "A wife?" she insisted, chuckling softly before she handed him a root, motioning for him to chew it." Well... my parents had passed, and I did not have any nearby relatives... so I was placed in a shrine to become a priestess..." she insisted softly, gazing up at him as she pressed the root to his lips. "Chew, it will have your body make up the blood you lost." Hero grunted and bitched here and there as she treated him, the injuries were live wounds after all. He listened to her voice and trusted her, there was really no other choice anyway. "Y-yes..." He agreed to do as instructed, slowly chewing the root she held towards him. "Would you mind removing my shoulder's armor? It's heavy..." He looked at her intently, which was a good sign of him recovering. His color was still dim, but the ongoing conversation kept him from dwindling. Katsuki couldn't resist teasing him to man up a bit, though she told him he was doing well for such serious wounds. She wanted him to stay with her while he recovered. "Of course," she replied, moving to sit on the caught before she leaned close to him, her hands searching for the straps that kept his armor on his shoulder. Finding it, she unsnapped them, and carefully took it off of his shoulder. A timid looking priest in training appeared, and bowed respectfully to Katsuki. He left Hero's weapon, and informed her of the burial of the bandits. Hero sighed slowly as she removed his armor, his body very warm and strongly scented. "Thank you." He said quietly, turning to look at the apprentice before hearing the news. He was relieved that the mess that was started earlier was now cleaned up." I should probably get going. I don't think anyone is too happy about me staying here. It's a holy place for holy people like you." Katsuki smiled, catching the scent of his body. It made her shiver a bit, blushing even as she suddenly felt improper things. 'What's wrong with you?' she thought, before she sat back down. The fact that he insisted leaving, made her stare at him in total disbelief. "Are you joking?" she inquired before laughing softly." Here is my friend since childhood, helping me protect the shrine, and you think no one is happy over you staying?" she insisted, shaking her head before she sighed softly. "Hero, you arenotleaving, I'll even force you to stay if you decide against it." Hero laughed, "Well, with those lance abilities you've developed, I'd have a hell of a rough time with you." He reached for his headband, easily taking it off and starting to open his shirt. "It's a bit warm in this place..." He looked around, not really paying much attention to anything but her. "I don't want to bring you any trouble. And it's true... you and I were very close as kids. I was really very worried for a long time." Katsuki gazed at him, trying hard to keep her eyes from trailing to his lovely chest. She quickly looked back up at him, smiling softly at him. "Yes... we were," she mentioned before she patted his leg. "Well don't worry... I'm here right now," she mentioned, smiling gently before she slowly stood up. "I'll bring you something to eat," she insisted, brushing a wrinkle out of her robes before she walked out of the room momentarily. Hero slowly tried to stand after smiling and watching her leave. He wasn't one to lie around and wait until something happened. He was pissed off with these uprisings, and they were caused by these bandits at times. "She really is an amazing healer. An amazing woman." He balled his hand into a fist. "I can't believe I am being with her right now, even if it's in a holy structure... she's more beautiful now that I've ever remembered." He kept removing his armor, his heavy steel boots, his gauntlets, eventually removing his shirt all together. It was sweaty and was beginning to wreak. Katsuki walked to the kitchen, silently thinking about how Hero was now. She admired the young man she had been close friends with when young, and she wondered what he was doing now... where he was living. She took the tray of freshly prepared food, and began to head back to the room Hero was in. Once walking in, she stifled herself from blushing before she cleared her throat. "Hopefully you have an appetite," she inquired, handing him the tray. Hero turned towards her and seemed surprised. "Oh, sorry. I was thinking out loud. I guess I should keep some thoughts to myself." He walked over to her slowly and took the tray, thanking her and smiling. "This looks really delicious. But what about you and your cuts? Are you feeling alright?" She shrugged lightly, moving to sit down on her chair. "Oh..." Katsuki murmured, noting that she had been bleeding. She had been so preoccupied over Hero she forgot about her wounds. Taking note of them merely made them suddenly painful. She moved to begin to treat them her own, pulling aside her sleeve before she began to tend to them. Hero bit into the dried meat that was served to him and watched her treat herself. The food was definitely welcomed by his tongue, teeth and stomach. He hadn't eaten a decent meal in days." You've definitely grown up quite a bit." He watched her tug her sleeve, appreciating every inch of additional skin he got. "You ever stop to wonder what would have happened if you and I never got split up? Would things be different?" He chewed thoroughly and swallowed, grabbing a nearby cup and drinking wine voraciously. It was somewhat unmannered, but it was understandable that the young warrior was hungry. She smoothed the paste of her wounds, hesitantly moving to the one on her side. It would require her to lift her top a bit, and she found it indecent from a priestess. She turned away and did so instead do it while turned away. No doubt Hero would have a glimpse of her lower back. Her cheeks flushed at his words, wondering as well. She always wondered what would have happened to them if they had remained together... would they have become each others' sweetheart maybe? She couldn't tell. "Yes... I have," she replied, tucking her top back in before she turned to face him, smiling slightly. "I would have imagined ourselves living together..." Hero was easily caught glancing at her lower body as he swallowed vegetables off the plate. "Seriously? Living together?" He smiled, "Sounds like heaven on earth." His eyes looked around and up to the ceiling, thinking quickly of what to say next. "I had a lot of dreams about you, but I never thought you'd look like this. You look the same, but much more refined. Have you been seeing someone on a personal level of interest? Or does this practice forbid you from even doing that?" Saudi brushed her hair back over her shoulder, and couldn't resist smiling at him. She chuckled gently, her eyes remaining on him as they softened a bit. "Oh?" she insisted before she laughed gently. "Did you expect me to be the same, curveless, nuisance of a child?" she teased casually to him, smiling once more before she sighed. Her eyes widened a bit when he spoke those bold words. "Well... several choose to have a... person of interest... I haven't and don't believe I should." Hero couldn't help but develop a sleek smile, "Curves, huh?" He took hold of his cup and finished his wine, leaving absolutely no food on the tray. "You were always someone important to me. With or without..." He tries speaking with his hands, but didn't know how to translate something as simple as breasts. "You know what I mean." Deep inside he was very happy at her answer, of course, he wouldn't show it as emotionally as he wanted to. "Well that's a waste of a beautiful body... and a wonderful girl. Are you afraid of heartbreak or something?" He reached for his waist and undid some of the leathers trappings holding his pants on. Putting the tray on a small table in the corner, Hero lied back, vertically facing her, seeing her upside down. His eyes looked calm as his now partially opened pants gave a direct yet contained glimpse of his pelvic area. "You've probably broken a lot of hearts. I got very jealous when I felt other boys were being too playful with you." She sighed softly, fixing her sleeve by unrolling it. Katsuki quirked a brow at him, smiling lightly at him as he told her she was important to him. This made her feel the familiar feeling she did long ago, she did feel important to him. Katsuki couldn't resist blushing a bit, laughing gently. "I see," she replied lightly. Satsuki couldn't believe her ears... was he flirting with her? She glared at him heatedly before she crossed her arms, tilting her head away. "No," she scoffed. "Heartbreak... A priestess doesn't need a man in her life... some are weak so they find consolation in the body of another. She watched him curiously, wondering what he was doing. She blushed deeply, before she rolled her eyes lightly, smiling a bit. "Jealous? Don't worry Hero... you were always my best friend." She sat down, remaining turned away from him. "You're best friend..." His eyes narrowed, and later a smile formed. "Whatever you say." He sat up and brought his arm around his head. "I shouldn't bug you much more. I have a wife to take care of after all... Amelia wouldn't be too happy if I missed out on our private time. Unlike you, she does need a man in her life. Although we struggle severely to just live." He glanced at her as he started collecting his armor. Amelia was a girl about Katsuki's age. She was the only person other than herself to be very close to Hero, and was often silently competing with Katsuki, perhaps even hating her. "It was fun to fight though. You kept your nerves suppressed, and that's very important." Katsuki swore her heart beats nearly faltered when he said that. 'He's... he's married?' she thought, feeling her insides seem to twist up a bit. "I see," she replied calmly, watching as he gathered his armor. 'Amelia of all people?!' she thought bitterly, stifling a shake of her head. "Yes I suppose... you should really be resting you took a beating back there," she inquired, biting her lower lip in response. She hoped he wouldn't be leaving, not only did she want to talk to her best friend, but he was injured and needs to rest. Hero read her expressions and body language, smiling. That smile. It only grew wider and wider as the letters "LIAR" almost printed themselves on his forehead. He couldn't help but to start laughing. It was a terrible thing that Hero did. He often lied to her as a child too, but it was never anything that would hurt her. Perhaps frustrate her, or anger her, but never hurt her. Katsuki avoided his gaze, about to speak, but she was suddenly interrupted. "Katsuki there are some people that need help on being tended to," insisted a concerned young girl. She nodded in response, quickly excusing herself from Hero quietly before she walked out of the room. She went down the hall towards the other rooms, the thought that he was married... Hero brought himself to his feet and watched her leave. He raised his hand as if to stop her, but it was already too late, and it wasn't fair to the people that needed help. Instead, Hero decided to rest a bit to easy Katsuki's probably confused mind. It took about two hours for Katsuki to finish helping the other wounded people. Some cases were more serious than others, but thankfully all were treatable. She wiped her hands clean of any blood, changed her robes to newer ones, while carefully avoiding the wrapped wounds on her. She walked towards the room that Hero was in, though she knocked carefully at first. Hero was lying on the ground, slowly sitting up and lying back down, in order to get his muscles back into shape. His hands were behind his head as he breathed heavily, counting as he continued doing routine sit-ups. He glanced over at the door and slowly stood up once she knocked." Satsuki? Is that you?" She waited, listening intently to hear if he was awake or sleeping. Katsuki smiled a bit, opening the door slowly. "Mind if I come in?" she insisted softly, hoping she wasn't disturbing him in the slightest. She had wished to find him resting though." How are you feeling?" she asked in concern, closing the door behind her. Hero shook his head, "Of course you can come in. You brought me here. I should be asking you permission for everything." He said with a smile. "I'm feeling better. You patched me up well, and the wounds could have been worse. If those lowly bandits managed to harm me." He looked down at his fist. "I am... just not ready..." He looked back up at her, a smile coming back onto his face as he walked closer. "I didn't even get to greet you. I know I probably don't smell great right now or anything, but I'd really like to give you a hug. It's been a very long time Katsuki." Katsuki couldn't resist smiling at him, so she did. She blushed in response to his words, clearly relieved that he feels much better. "I'm glad you're feeling better," she replied with a thoughtful nod. She gazed at him, watching as he approached. She smiled gently at him, blushing a bit. "Of course you can hug me..." she chided before she closed the distance between them, wrapping her arms around his torso. She rested her head against his shoulder, closing her eyes as she held him close. "It's so nice to see you again, Hero..." Hero's arms came around her body and tugged her tightly. "Yeah, it's nice to see you too. I seriously never thought I would see you again. This is the best thing that has happened to me." He did realize that he likely smelled rather, distinct. He didn't want possible body odor to ruin the moment so he distanced himself from her before anything became too obvious or overwhelming. "I guess this is what all that... fate and destiny talk was all about back then, huh?" His eyes dragged to her legs and back up, quickly, quietly, just a cursory glance. "Hey, do you think I'd be able to clean myself up?" Katsuki wanted to soak up the moment and enjoy it completely. She smiled at him, noting that this was the best thing that happened to her as well. She recalled speaking of fate, how she even promised that they would meet up one day, and here they were. Katsuki nodded, "of course you may," she replied, suddenly falling thoughtful. He would be better off in a sponge bath since she didn't want him to soak up his bandages. "I'll help you if you want, I've helped many others before," she insisted. "I need to make sure you don't ruin the bandages." He looked into her eyes and paused a moment before a small smile developed on his face. "Yeah sure. We can skip a couple of chapters and have you touch my naked body." He laughed quietly, trying to point to which way the baths were, he wasn't familiar with the place. Katsuki couldn't help but laugh in response to him, lightly shaking her head. "Oh you won't be completely naked, not that I haven't seen you like that before," she couldn't resist teasing. She stepped away from him, motioning him to follow her out the door. She led him towards the baths which were for only for a few people at a time, but she made sure to lock it so none entered. Part of her wanted to bathe, because she had merely changed her clothes. Hero was picking up little details along the way. How she smiled, locking of the doors, teasing. It felt good to finally have those kinds of interactions with someone else, most of all, someone whom he had honestly felt for since a child." The bodies of a boy and a man are two completely different things Katsuki... but I'm not going to brag about anything. I really need a good bathe. The battle and injuries have got me feeling dirty." He smirked, "This feels just a little odd..." He laughed, watching her as he removed his pants, little by little stripping for her in a sense. Katsuki rolled her eyes playfully, setting the water against the hot stones which were heated. She took out a cloth, handing it to Hero. "Cover yourself with this," she informed, not glancing at him. Katsuki rolled up her sleeves, knowing that she would need to bathe after he did. Grabbing a cloth, she waited until he placed the cloth over his lap. She slowly turned, motioning him where to sit before the kneeled beside him. Dunking the cloth in the warm water, she slowly slid it across her back. "So... what have you done over the years?" Katsuki asked curiously. He took the cloth and did as he was told, he wasn't used to this kind of treatment, much less from the girl of his dreams." Thank you." He sat where he was instructed and looked up at her as she spoke." I have been busy, and extremely lonely. The village we lived at has been recovering very nicely. But sadly a lot of the men were killed when we got separated." The water was warm, and it felt really great on his body." I settled down alone for a while in the outskirts. I was so upset that you were taken away. Furthermore, I vowed to find you. Furthermore, I hated the people who hurt us. But more than anything, I hated myself for not being able to help you. I'm so sorry about that hard time Katsuki. I would have gladly died to save you, but my body was just too frail." He looked down at his chest, the wounds healing nicely. "Apparently my body is still too frail. I trained at a temple and learned basic hand-to-hand combat. Grapples, strikes, defense, using your environment. It's all very helpful information and it boosts your confidence. I spent countless hours thinking about you. I was so upset that I left to live in a small shack on Done mountain for several months, where I met a traveler who gave me the training with the axe after I saved his wife from over freeze. Furthermore, I literally stripped nude to cover her freezing body, created a small fire and cooked them food while her husband attempted to keep her warm." He continued. "I never heard from them again. I understand they lived way up north. His wife reminded me of you, and every time I saw her I only wished I could be with you. I returned home, the old housekeeper being the only person remaining and the place is soon to be sold. I gathered a few assets. My father's axe." He motioned towards his weapon in the other room. "The band of my family's crest and my father's scout armor. I decided to fight for the little I had. So here and there I'd appear to beat down a criminal, slay a maddened beast, or serve in our weak army. Meanwhile, I lived with Amelia for nearly two years." He looked up at her immediately. "The two of us were financially unstable... living together, she would be able to work as a waitress and dancer as I created money from odd-jobs around the village. Helping build a home here, capturing a bandit there, having sex with a lonely woman..." He paused and smiled, "Just kidding." She had continued to bathe him as he spoke, wiping off any dirt or grime off his skin. Once she finished his back, she moved to his arms and chest. Over the years, she thought of nothing more than Hero, her best friend since she was a child. It made her eyes water at the thought of that day. She remembered after her mother died of disease, her stepfather wouldn't want to care for a child that wasn't his. After being beaten from him from time to time, he finally abandoned her, which she was then placed under the wing of a priestess, an elderly woman. Till that day nothing mattered to her in life, nothing but her devotion to their deity... and Hero. Part of her had lost hope of ever seeing him again. Satsuki rubbed the cloth intently against the top off his chest. She gazed up at him once he finished speaking, almost wanting to wince as he spoke of sex with Amelia, though didn't comment on it, even if he was kidding. She recalled him being playful when young, yet to joke now, even of things thought meager, shouldn't be joked about." You certainly had an eventful life," she insisted, offering a small smile before she expressionlessly skimmed the cloth lower towards his abdomen. His eyes watched her closely. "There might have been... one... or maybe two days, when I actually didn't have the time to think about you. Every single other day... I wished you good luck, and was literally dying to see you. I think I was ill." He felt the sponge clean him up quickly and effectively. He didn't want to leave that bath, it felt like a small slice of heaven. "I'm happy we found each other before I got old and unattractive." He said with a smirk. Saudi couldn't help but chuckle a bit. Within moments, she wiped down almost every inch of his body, except over his bandages and over certain areas. "I see," she murmured quietly. "I am too," she quipped, laughing softly as she did. Katsuki sighed, stretching her arms above her head as she stood. "Well, you're done," she inquired, and walked away with the bowl at hand. Hero looked over at her with a confused look on his face. "There are some parts of me that I definitely should clean that aren't clean." He stated, obviously she wasn't going to go reach in those places. Once it may be extremely bizarre and two, somewhat unsanitary. "I mean, you've already cleaned ninety-eight percent of my body..." He said, implying that maybe she should reach below his belt line and spotless him, but he was pushing his luck. She blushed deeply, avoiding his gaze for a moment before she dropped the cloth on his knee. Katsuki stood, unrolling her sleeves as she moved to clean out the bowl, noting after she brought Hero back to his room, she would bathe herself. Katsuki smiled to herself, shaking her head a bit. The young priestess began to hum to herself then. Hero smiled at her, taking care of his business of getting cleaned. During this time, Hero had his first thoughts of having something very physical with Katsuki. He couldn't deny her attractiveness, intelligence, nor kindness. Those three elements made her hard to resist, yet difficult to approach. Hero remained in the water, just relaxing and thinking about her beautiful figure, alluring voice and strong will. Soon his mind generated images of him kissing with her, gently fondling her and eventually making love to her with impressive detail. The young man opened his eyes, no longer able to picture that mental tease. His face blushed as his hand pushed down on his groin under the water. "Of all places!" Katsuki decided it couldn't hurt to wash herself. Though the allowance of a man and woman in the bath at the same time, nude was forbidden, she could just let it slide for the moment. She moved behind the wooden wall erected for privacy. She moved into one of the stalls, and removed her clothing. Furthermore, she carefully sponged over her body, avoiding her bound wounds. Katsuki closed her eyes, soaking and massaging her scalp as she did. With a gentle sigh, she relaxed under the warm water. Hero sighed as he struggled to keep down an embarrassing erection. He sunk lower into the water and let his face soak. He heard some slight rustle on the other side, and stood up. "Katsuki, that's you on the other side, isn't it... I have to ask you something. I want you to think about it very hard." Katsuki immediately stood at attention when he spoke her name. She hesitated before she spoke up, "Uhm... very well Hero, ask away," she insisted. The priestess continued to bathe herself, lowering her gaze to the floor as she patiently waited for him to speak. "It looks like you've grown well. You've become very attached to our religion, and that's good. But... we're of age now... and I want to ask you what I would have then, but it just seemed that we had all the time in the world for me to ask you anytime. I don't want to separate you from this. You seem to be at peace of mind here. But I do want you to be with me, as my friend, or hopefully otherwise. We can live nearby, close enough for you to come here as you please, and together we can defend our village... to make sure that two young sweethearts never lose sight of each other like we did..." He really wanted to talk to her face to face about it, but chances were that things would get complicated with both of them naked. Katsuki remained silent, contemplating his words. They clearly effect on her, not that he could really see. She leaned against the walls, slowly continuing to wash her hair and body until she wiped off any grime. She walked out of the pool once clean. Living with Hero? That was how she imaging their lives would be when they were little; together. But now she doubted it would be so easy. She approached him, covered in a dark robe so she wasn't naked. "That sounds very tempting and interesting... I haven't seen you in years, I would take the chance to live with you," Katsuki informed with a smile. Hero almost smirked as he waited for her reply, imagining her smile grow on her lips, and at the same time feared for the exact opposite. He gave her time to think it through, eventually there was no response, and he grew worried. He heard the door open and thought that someone else would be coming in. When he saw her, he watched her attentively until she gave him his answer. His lips curved again, smiling widely. He wanted to jump out of the water and hug her, but he was nude under the water, and it would make things bizarre. "Yeah! That's great... It's the best news I've heard all day long." Katsuki returned his smile with a grin of her own. She chuckled softly, nodding lightly before she tossed a robe to him. "I will be in my room, which is right across the room you are currently occupying," she informed with a nod. With that, she walked out of the bathing area and towards her room. Her heart thudded with excitement at the thought of her spending so much time with Hero. Hero watched her, catching the robe and listening to her, nodding back. Was that an invitation of some sort? He couldn't help but think that. He cared so much for her as a child, but the truth must be told, Hero had been wanting to be with her since he realized it was her. Furthermore, he scrambled to get out of the water, dried himself and began to contemplate exactly when to go to her room. Katsuki returned to her room, which had only simple things, nothing elegant, as a good priestess' room should be. She had a cot, a chair, and a night stand, which held the candle. The chest at the foot of her bed was filled with robes, both for the day and night. She slipped on the beige, simple night robes, which were very comfortable. She brushed her hair with the comb, which the only luxurious item in her possession. Once dried, the axe Walker breathed irregularly in thought of the entire process. He sighed and decided to walk towards her room. He leaned against the door gently, "Katsuki..." Katsuki heard him, and quickly made her way to the door. Seeing him made her smile, before she motioned him on. "Come on in," she whispered, loud enough for him to hear. They couldn't be expected to be within each other's presence late at night, so they would have to do so in secret. Hero smiled and entered, his family's ribbon wrapped around his wrist. "This is a very comfortable place. I'm happy you brought me here." He said, trying to mirror her tone. "I can see why someone would be so willing to devout themselves to this place." His eyes were dancing. He maintained eye contact for a large amount of the time, however they would glance at her shoulders, and decreased in the form of cursory glances. Katsuki blinked at him, pure amazement and surprise. He considered this comfortable? Part of her really expected him to find it so bare... perhaps stale even? She expected Hero to take the interest of high luxuries in life. But it reassured her that he found it comfortable at least. "I'm glad you think so," she replied, smiling a bit before she moved towards her window, gazing outside. "Now in regard to me living with you... where is your home?" she asked curiously. Hero looked over at her and took several steps towards her. "It's being built... about thirty minutes away by foot, the make-believe house we drew together as silly children. It is not complete... but it should be, very soon." His arms extended as they reached for her shoulders. "For kids of that age... you were beyond mature... I felt so blessed to have your attention nearly every day." He put his chest against her back, his arms wrapping around her stomach as he aggressively made moves to initiate some intimacy. She nodded slightly, gazing out the window while she sat on her bed. So it was being built? Katsuki was quite surprised when he mentioned it was like the dream house they thought up when little. It made her smile a bit, her eyes closing for a moment from the fond memories. The moment he wrapped his arms around her, the priestess stiffened a bit, but she relaxed a bit. Her hand gently patted his arm. "What... made you want to build it?" she questioned. "You illustrated most of it. It was your picture of the perfect place. I didn't know if I'd ever find you, but if you ever returned, and saw your perfect home standing in the middle of a village, you'd find me living inside it. Does that make sense to you?" He chuckled lightly, only embracing her, both of their bodies cleaned, yet still warm, the temperature still rising in Hero's case. His lips touched the skin of her shoulder and kissed her softly. It was an intimate place to kiss someone, a friend wouldn't kiss a friend there, so Hero's message and motives were becoming very clear. His lips pecked at her a couple of times more, the last practically on her neck as his arms grip on her tightened remotely. Katsuki closed her eyes, recalling the time she certainly had illustrated such home. She had showed where the rooms would be, the bath house, the garden, the sitting room, bedrooms and kitchen. She was surprised he was having it built... for the both of them. Her eyes snapped opened and widened as he kissed her shoulder. The priestess struggled under his hold a bit, trying to distance herself from Hero. "Hero you shouldn't..." she began, referring to his actions. Such towards a priestess was something that shouldn't take place. Hero felt her resistance, he was not about to force himself upon her, it wasn't what she would have wanted at the moment. At the same time, his instincts as a man were eliminating his options of letting her go. His arms wrapped around her arms as if to ensnare her, trying to tug her closer. His ceased the kissing, he could at least do that for her, but he didn't want her to separate from him. "I'm sorry. Just try to understand how I've been feeling without you." He wasn't staring at her, his eyes actually had little contact with hers, he was speaking near her ears in a quiet tone. Part of Katsuki longed to through her garbs and vows away, as if she had never made them, just to experience such intimate moments with Hero, just as she has always wished to. She had wanted to marry him when she was younger, or at least grow closer to him than they already were. Katsuki closed her eyes, subconsciously leaning into him. "I know..." she whispered softly, "But I am a Priestess, Hero... we're supposed to be just friends," she informed softly, conflict in her voice. She was tempted to give into him. "Katsuki... who are you trying to fool? We both know that from the start... we were never friends. Your heart was mine the moment I met you... and vice versa. You know this is true... despite what you may bring yourself to want to believe. There is nothing wrong with loving you... I don't want to be without you in my life." He sighed, "It is rather wrong to pressure you like this though. I just really yearn for your touch." His words immediately stifled any sense of doubt in Katsuki. She gazed at the window before her, his words imprinting themselves in her mind. Their hearts belonged to each other the day they met... that was something that was very true. She gently reached to touch the side of his head as he leaned over her shoulder, before she slowly turned to face him. The priestess gazed at him quietly for a moment before she wrapped her arms around his neck. "I'm happy to have you back..." He closed his eyes once she touched him. Her skin so soft, so warm. His eyes looked at hers when she turned, feeling her warm embrace. "I'll stay as long as you want. I don't belong anywhere else but with you." This immediately made Katsuki smile as she embraced him. She held him close, burying her face into the side of his neck quietly, inhaling his scent. The priestess was content to have him in her life again after so long has she been without him. She brushed her lips against his cheek and jaw gently. ((Sorry that I've been out for so long. I hope you still want to continue this.))The was the most traitorous fruit of all. The woman of his dreams was before him, embracing him and comforting him, as he was comforting her, but something was begging him to act, to move, to make something happen, another part of him asked for him to remain in control of the situation and not let it escalade past this point. Once her lips made contact, the man was enslaved by his want for her, he reached for her chin but only with his fingertips, tilting her face in his direction. Then, slowly and gently, the man's lips pressed against hers.

[Covert Revulsion] Passion does not wither over time. [Papanomics]|rating:3.0

The List (Me and Forever_Trapped)

Name: Salvatore Age: 224Gender: Male Species: SA'an Appearance: Bald, but with a close-cropped brown beard; vivid orange eyes (wears color contacts to make them blue); quite tall and slightly bulky. Background: Salvatore is quite typical for a SA'an; they can defy gravity, and can fit into or through any space. He's used most of his long years to learn about the other species that inhabit their planet. He's developed several connections with other people around the city, human and non-human, and makes regular use of them. Name:Daniela Demurrage:445 Species:DaJemAppearance:Background:Daniela is a Date - a dark elf so to speak. Her natural form is the one above. But in a normal, contained state, all that's left is her pretty hair and her defying green eyes. She's an UmbraDeJen - a shadow walking dark elf, and she uses her powers to store her emergency weapons. She lost her family, and she feels she has no reason to live from day to day. Cool ^^ I'll start it off.----------------------Salvatore made his way swiftly through the crowd. The werewolf had suggested a dark elf for his purposes; hopefully she would work. Dark elves were one species Salvatore hadn't studied; he was curious to hear about them. He knocked on the door of the elf's house, hoping she would be home at this time of day. A pretty girl with shaggy brown hair pulled into a ponytail with hints of green in red it is, a pair of low cut cargo pants cling loosely to her hips thanks to the tie around it and a top that resembled a bikini met his sight, showing the pale skin that was unknown to her race. Her green eyes blinked in confusing, taking the cigarette out of her mouth." May I help you sir?"she asked, leaning against the doorway. She sensed something off about this man, but she couldn't peg what it was. Salvatore coughed at the cigarette smoke. 'Are you Daniela - the Date?' Daniela's eyes narrowed." Who wants to know? How do you know those names?"she demanded. Immediately, her guard went up, and she backed more into her home, ready to slam the door. 'A werewolf,' Salvatore said. 'I'm a SA'an, don't worry. My name is Salvatore.' Daniela sighed and looked around." Come in."she told, moving. She didn't give him time to move on his own - she pulled him in and slammed the door." Follow,"she requested, moving through the dark living room to a door, which led to her basement and where she worked on cars. Which explained her attire. Salvatore went in without complaining. He knew how secretive many of the non-human inhabitants of the city were. He knew he'd probably have to prove himself as a SA'an to gain her trust. "Sit - explain."she ordered, moving to her latest line of work. It was a monster truck, its height impressive. Daniela jumped onto the tire, climbing onto the truck and balancing on it, showing some skill of hers." You have five minutes. Starting now."she stated simply. Salvatore took off the contacts that hid his true eye color and put them away. Then, he looked up at the elf. 'Do you want to know about me, or about why I'm here?' Daniela hummed, thinking." Why you are here."she requested. As all SA'an do, Salvatore got straight to the point. 'Someone - I don't know who, but they're human - is looking to start a genocide against non-humans.' Daniela paused in her work, turning over to him slightly before going back to her work." The threat has been issued before... it never worked. Why now?"she asked. 'There are more people behind it than there have been other times. A few of us have reported friends or family getting taken in for questioning, being arrested, or even disappearing completely,' Salvatore said. Daniela looked at him. Standing straight, she backflipped perfectly off the thing, landing just as perfectly. Approaching him, she put her hands on either side of his head." How many." Salvatore, politely but firmly, took her hands off his head. 'Three so far.' Daniela sighed." Shit."she said, sighing again." How do I know you're telling me the truth?"she asked, backing up as if she just realized it. 'As around for yourself,' Salvatore said. 'Most of us know it by now.' Daniela furrowed her eyebrows, tugging at her hair." You're a SA'an?"she asked, crossing her arms." Prove it."she stated simply. Salvatore gestured to his eyes. 'And you can ask the werewolves to confirm. There are some I don't get along with well, so they'd have no reason to lie about me.' "Alright, touché. Now - what's this got to do with me? Why am I needed?"she asked, sitting down and blinking. The The'Jem had never been called upon unless there was a war. This might be worse than she thought. 'We'll be getting non-human folk out of here,' Salvatore said. 'We need to get them away to a country where they'll be safe - I can think of a few. I've been talking about it with the other folk, but everyone needs to be informed if it's going to work. A werewolf I talked to said to contact you about it.' Daniela stood up, smiling a bit." So it's a war, essentially. You called upon the right species, we're known for war." she told honestly. Daniela was a bit... unstable and it sort of showed at the time. She held out her hand."Let's do this over - my name is Daniela. I'm a DE'Jem. How're you?" Salvatore shook the hand. 'I'm good, thank you - and yourself?' Daniela smiled." Better now than I have been in a while."she told, smiling. Salvatore smiled. 'That's good, Daniela. So, are you going to help?' "When I'm called upon, I can not deny." she said, smiling. Translation - yes. Salvatore smiled more. 'I'd like you to talk to other folk you know. I'll do the same. I can give you my card - contact me when you've contacted as many as you know.' "Alright,"she told, smiling. Daniela took his card and shoo'ed him off and then sighed." You can come out now," she told, a such of people flooding from closets and bathrooms and closed off rooms. Yes, Daniela had hidden people in her home. Salvatore left without complaint. He continued going around, passing on the word. He even spoke to a couple humans he knew would be friendly to their cause. All of them fixed cars and took cases because It's how they made money. A few days later, Salvatore had gotten to all the people he knew. He was sitting at home, pouring over a book, researching how they could do this. Daniela herself was doing research, taking care of the numerous kids that lived in her house as well. Salvatore didn't want to call Daniela - actually, he had no way of contacting her except going to her house, and if she was out, he didn't want to come and go several times, for fear of being spotted. His phone was on the table beside him; he waited for the call that indicated Daniela had told everybody she could think of. Daily picked up the phone and dialed it, waiting for him to pick up. Salvatore did promptly. 'Hello.' "I did what I was told to do - so what're we going to do?" she asked, twirling in the chair, smiling a bit. 'I was thinking of taking a trip to the docks,' Salvatore said, managing to be blunt and subtle like only a SA'an could. 'You and me - to talk things over.' "Alright,"she told, smiling. 'Are you available in an hour?' Salvatore asked. "Yes I am." she told, getting up and hanging up the phone. Salvatore closed the phone as well and stood. He was at the docks forty-five minutes later. At the dock, when he arrived, the The'Jem was already there - relaxing as she waited, smoking as always. Salvatore covered his mouth and nose with his wrist. 'Put that out, please. SA'an ACE sensitive to it.' Daniela flicked it to the water and exhaled. "Sorry," she told, making a mental note of it. Salvatore took the hand away; the smell of smoke still lingering in the air bothering him somewhat. He gestured down the docks. 'Shall we walk?' Daniela got up and nodded, smiling lightly. "We shall, sir." she told. Salvatore smiled gently and began walking. 'I've found someone who could help us with our overseas trips.' Daniela grinned." Really?!"she asked, happy. Salvatore nodded, smiling. 'Though... I think you might be surprised at him.' Daniela blinked." Really?"she asked, blinking. Now - she was curious. Salvatore nodded. 'He's a good choice. He takes his boat back and forth from these docks to anywhere in the world he wants.' "Wow... Can I put the people that are in my house on first?"she asked, blinking. It'd be good to get all those kids out of there. Granted - she'd miss them. 'We're starting with those who are more obvious,' Salvatore said. 'Those like you and me who can hide ourselves don't have the same priority - we're not in as much danger.' "Why do you think they're in my house?" Danikya told, smiling lightly at him. Some were The'Jem who just never learned how to Conrail their looks, some were others, some had scales -water creatures-others had horns. Salvatore smiled lightly. 'We'll take the most extreme of them. We can do about twenty at a time.' Daniela smiled, nodding. "Alright, thank you." she told, then randomly hugged him. It was a dream come true to Daniela Salvatore gently stepped back. 'SA'an Ten to avoid physical contact except with family members or lovers,' he said, not unkindly. "Oh - sorry." Danikya said, embarked. She dint know that - but then again, she didn't know much about other races. Salvatore smiled at her. 'An innocent mistake,' he assured her. He gestured to a fairly large boat named Ana. 'The captain's name is Juan Castro.' Daniela blinked, tilting her head. "I see..." she told, smiling softly. Salvatore stopped at the boat's mooring. 'Juan!' he called. A dark-haired human came out of the cabin and grinned. 'Sal! Buddy, how are ya? Who's this?' "My name's Daniela." she told simply, smiling a bit. 'Daniela,' Juan said, rubbing his stumbled chin. 'That's a Dark Elf name, right?' "The'Jem."she agreed and corrected at the same time, nodding." Yes." 'Dark Elf is also a standard term,' Juan said. 'Most others use it. Even half the Dark Elves I've met use it.' "Well - I'm not a New Age. I'm traditional. The'Jem."she stated firmly. It was almost an insult, they were talking about her race here. Juan held up his hands. 'The last one I heard say that was six hundred. She was traditional to the extreme. Sorry.' "NTP,"she mumbled. In her language, it meant, thank you. Juan leaned his arms against the side of the boat, still looking at Daniela. 'So, Sal told you the situation?' She nodded simply, knowing of most of the things that went down. Juan looked at Salvatore. 'You want me to take 'em around to places?' Salvatore nodded. 'Friendly ports. No more than twenty at a time - and make sure they board discreetly.' Juan nodded. 'I can do that.' Daniela looked around, inspecting the boat. "How do we know you won't take them and kill them?" she questioned. 'I trust Juan with my life,' Salvatore said, a note of finality in his voice. Daniela shrugged." Sorry for questioning your highness."she stated bluntly. 'This is too serious a matter for me to choose someone who was not completely trustworthy,' Salvatore said patiently. Juan waited calmly as they sorted this out. "Alright, alright. Forgive me for being concerned!"she snapped back, shaking her head." Can I get in and see the boat?"she asked. 'Be my guest,' Juan said, gesturing for Daniela to pull herself off. Salvatore only shook his head. She'd have to start taking his word for things if they were going to work together. Daniela did pull herself up, then went to have a look around, cussing in her mind. While the boat was on the small side, it was surprisingly roomy, and definitely sea-worthy. There were numerous places for people to sleep, and plenty more for them to hide if needed. It was clear Salvatore had made the right choice: there weren't many other boats right for the task that wouldn't draw suspicion. Daniela nodded, clearly impressed." Alright,"she coincided after searching every inch of the whole boat. Juan smiled easily at her. 'Feel like going for a little ride? Seeing how she goes?' he offered, companion-like. Daniela shook her head." I don't do water, I aplogosie."she told, looking around just to look around. "I trust it. I trust you."she told, smiling a bit at him. Juan smiled back at her. 'Well, should we all go over the plan over some drinks?'' That would be nice,' Salvatore said. Daniela motioned that she'd follow them out, and she did as soon as they went. As soon. She was also slightly claustrophobic to boot. 'Actually, we were thinking of doing it in there,' Juan said, indicating the boat. 'We can talk more freely in there.' Daniela took a breath and rubbed her head. She nodded anyway, deciding that it was best. With his size, Salvatore easily climbed onto the boat. Juan led them down to the cabin, and looked at Daniela. 'Your drink of choice?' "Anything alcoholic." she grumbled, sitting down and trying not to flip out because she was in a small, enclosed space. Juan nodded, and poured her a small glass of scotch. Salvatore took a glass of water for himself, and Juan sat down with a cup of coffee. 'So, what were we thinking of doing?'' Twenty at a time, starting with the most noticeable ones,' Salvatore said. Daniela stayed clam, listened and drank her drink, never minding anything else. Juan looked at her. 'Anything to add to that?' She shook her head, staying relatively quiet. So far - Daniela's thoughts were not needed. 'Okay,' Juan said, looking between the two. 'When can we start?' Salvatore thought for a minute. He looked over at Daniela for input. Daniela blinked." Whenever we can get people smuggled in. I have a few in my house, as I said."she told, shrugging. Juan nodded. 'Best try it under cover of darkness. You'll have to be careful about the route you take, though.' "I know how to drive."she assured, smiling a bit at him. 'Oh, that's not what I was worried about,' Juan said. 'I was thinking, avoid traffic cameras, streetlights, that sort of thing. It'd be suspicious if you came around too much.' Daniela nodded." I kind of figured that, I know this area like the back of my hand."she said, kicking back and relaxing. Juan nodded. 'Good,' he said, smiling at her. 'I don't think there's anything else, is there?' Daniela looked between the two men. Truly - it was up to them if they wanted to comment any farther or not. She was just there. Salvatore looked at Daniela, then at Juan. 'I don't think so.' Daniela simply shook her head, not having anything to say at the moment. 'I think we're done, then,' Salvatore said, finishing his water and standing up. Juan stood up as well and gave the SA'an a polite wave. Daniela bowed her respects then made her way to exit. Juan escorted them to the dock. Salvatore thanked him and began walking. Daniela went with him, simply sighing and thinking this whole situation over. At the end of the docks, Salvatore turned to Daniela. 'I'll see you later, Daniela. I'll reach out to you to arrange a day for us and others to meet up and arrange the order in which we leave.' Daniela nodded, smiling simply at him then turning to leave. She made her way back home slowly, thinking. When Salvatore went home, the first thing he did was start contacting the people he knew. They were each to bring some of the most noticeable kin to his house on a date to be set, so they could decide who would be going first. Daniela herself rounded up about ten people who were most 'obvious'. Not a lot of them did, but about ten or eleven did. After a week, it was all ready. Salvatore called Daniela. Daniela slid over and picked up the phone." Yo?" 'Tonight, at midnight,' Salvatore said. Daniela nodded." Gotchya."she told simply, hanging up. She then jogged over to the ten people she was taking and told them to pack up. That night, Salvatore sat in his basement, waiting. People trickled in slowly, a lot of them wrapped in heavy scarves and coats to hide their features. They didn't take them off until they had sat down. Daniela did as she was told, stuck to the backstreets and shadows, having stuck all ten people and luggage in the trunk. They fit so it wasn't torture. She knocked on his door, smiling lightly and waited. Salvatore opened the door and nodded to her with a small smile. He stepped back for her to come in. Daniela put out the cigarette she was smoking and waved the smoke away, coming in." Sorry,"she told, referring to the cigarette. She smoked more when she was nervous. 'Thank you for putting it out,' Salvatore said. 'Where is everyone?' "I remember what you said about smoking. And the trunk."she answered, smiling a bit. Sure she was nervous as hell about all of this, but the The'Jem hid it very well. 'Bring them in,' Salvatore said. 'One at a time, so we don't attract suspicion.' "Okay then!"she sang, spinning on her heel and taking the younger children in first before the adults. (Oh. Sorry. Thought you said the "truck", and I thought she meant she remembered about taking an alternate route. I'll edit that.) {lol - I edited my post to flow with your post XD Its alright, it happens.} Salvatore lead everyone downstairs and indicated for them to sit down. 'We're waiting for a few more people,' he said. 'In the meantime, make yourselves comfortable.' Everyone did make themselves comfortable, well as comfortable as they could when they were nervous as all hell. Daniela herself kept a watch-out, ready to kill anyone that attempted OT kill her. Fortunately, no one tried to kill anyone else, and the last few people arrived without a hitch. Salvatore indicated for everyone to introduce themselves. Daniela retreated in, sitting down in a corner just to avoid the 'happy sunshine' of introductions. When they were done, Salvatore writing down the names as he did, he began talking. 'Three of you,' he pointed to them, 'are pregnant. You're first on the boat, along with the nine of you,' he pointed them out, 'with young children. That's all we can take this time without being suspicious.' Daniela shrugged." Take the rest back and only bring the pregnant and children?"she asked, looking at him. A female elf leaned over to Daniela. 'He just said that. That's just how the SA'an apeak. They're to the point, but a bit cryptic at times.' Danika leaned away, a bit kiddish around other people. "Alright. Into the truck guys." she told and everyone else did as they were told. Salvatore directed everyone else to escort the first batch off in twos and threes over the next few days. They nodded, and filtered out as well. Daniela being Daniela offered to be alone. It was like her anyway - she hated to have a 'partner' in her own personal territory. (Er, sorry. Salvatore was directing people to take two or three pregnant people/people with young children, not saying they had to work in groups.) (Oh sorry XDD I shall edit that...) And Daniela did as she was ordered to do, bring pregnant women in pairs along with their children. It wasn't hard to do. (^^ It's all right. I guess I wasn't clear.) A few days later, everyone was on Juan's ship, and he left harbor the day after. Salvatore, on the dock, watched him go. It would be another few weeks before they could send people on their way again. Daniela watched them go, apprehensive. Yes - she was worried, very worried. Eventually, Salvatore spoke up. 'We'll do our best to send friends and families to the same places. That should make the transition easier.' Daniela nodded, still worried though." I trust you..." Salvatore nodded. 'We'll have to go, too, eventually.' "After everyone else is gone." Danikya said. She was speaking mainly for herself though. Salvatore nodded. 'We'll be the last to leave.' Daniela nodded, sighing a bit. She had a brief, momentary thought of 'if they leave'. Pushing it away - she turned around to go home. Salvatore turned to look at her. 'Where would you go? If you had the chance?' Daniela sat there and thought." I don't know..."she admitted, kicking a rock." Hawaii... maybe... Its secluded, not many people. They're all family there..."she said, fantasizing about a family. Salvatore nodded. 'We'll see if we CNA get you there, then.' Daniela smiled, brushing her hair behind her ears." I can get there... you just get to your dream place."she told, giving him a little bit of an awkward hug. Salvatore once again stepped back, but said nothing. He gave her a small smile. She returned his smile then began to set off towards home. Daniela didn't know what else to do but that. Salvatore walked a few paces behind her. They had to go the same way, at least for a little while. Daniela knew he was there, and didn't protest his being behind her. Salvatore was silent. He would let Daniela talk if she wanted to. She didn't talk, but it was a comfortable silence to her. It was so as well for Salvatore, and when it came time for him to go he left with a simple "Good night". He went his way without another word. Daniela waved and walked the rest of the way home. She sighed, unlocking the door. Over the next several weeks, Salvatore received a lot of calls from Juan. All of them confirmed that the people who wanted to be dropped off had been, but not where they had gone; that would remain between Juan, them, and whoever wanted to join them. Daniela was happy to get and announce updates to the people she sheltered and helped. Sighs of relief came out of her every time. Eventually, a knock came at Daniela's door. Two men were there, wearing black suits. Everyone hid in the places that were skillfully -professionally- hidden by Daniela herself. The former spy answered the door, a cigarette in her mouth. "May I help you?"she asked, keeping herself on guard. 'Yes - are you Daniela Detour?' one man said. "Depends. Who's asking and what they want with her." she stated simply, her tone not leaning one way or the other. 'Ma'am, we're from the government,' the man said. 'If you don't answer, I can arrest you for obstructing an investigation.' "And I can get you for trespassing on private property without a damn Warren." she stated back, smiling sweetly. "Now - tell me what you want with Daniela and I might get her." she said, raising her eyebrows. 'I'm afraid you can't get us on anything while we're on official business,' the man said. 'Now answer our question. This is our last chance.' She chewed on her lip." What kind of official business? I'm sorry - but I'm allowed to question strange men standing at my door in black suits that look like they can beat the shit out of me in two seconds. That'll be my last question, and I'll answer any of yours."she promised. (Ahem, this is location neutral.) (TWO sorry - I'll edit that XDD;; *forgot* V-V) (It's all right. Most people slip up at least once.) The men stepped forward. They grabbed each of Daniela's arms, turned her around, and handcuffed her in seconds. "HEY! Hey!"she shouted, struggling." Get off of me! All I wanted to know was why you're here! Get off!"she shouted, debating weather or not to resist arrest fully or let it go. The men took her to their car, and put her in the back. They got in the front, and drove off. It was impossible to see where; the windows were tinted from the inside. Daniela kicked and screamed the whole way through. As soon as the other's heard the door slam shut, one of them rushed to the phone and sloppily worked it to call Salvatore. Salvatore was pouring over an old tome in his basement. He picked up his phone when it rang. 'Hello?' "Men in black coats took Daniela!" a water sprite squeezed, hysterical. "What do we do?!" 'Nothing, right now,' Salvatore said, standing up. 'I'll take care of this.' The Water creature nodded, hanging up the phone. They all ran around, locking up the house good and tight and relocating everyone to the basement, just in case they AHD to make a speedy, speedy exit. Danikya, on the other hand, was giving them an earful with her loud mouth. The men seemed to ignore it. Meanwhile, Salvatore made several calls. He put down the phone a long while later, and sat back in his chair. The car came to a stop. When the men got out and opened the door for Daniela, the car was underground, and there were no windows. She got out and looked around, noting the ground -to her bare feet-was freezing." Where am I? What do you people want with me?"she demanded. 'You'll be kept here until you start answering our questions,' one man said. They each took her by one arm and led her along a hallway. Daniela held her head high and tried not to be afraid. She breathed evenly, pushing her emotions away and putting on an unguard feeling. The men took her to a metallurgy interrogation room, with a table and chairs. They sat her down, and fastened the handcuffs against a ring underneath the table so that she couldn't leave. Then, they took seats on other sides of the table. Daniela shivered, only in a tank top and a pair of low cut work pants that had holes in it. She put her bare feet on her long jean legs, protecting them slightly from the cold. 'So we ask you again,' the man said, 'are you Daniela Detour?' "That's obviously my name." she said, giving a smart elect smile. 'We heard reports of non-human residents at your house,' the man went on, as though he hadn't heard Daniela. Daniela looked confused. "By whom? I work on cars, for the love of Pete." she stated, huffing. 'Are there any additional residents, human or otherwise, living at your home?' the man went on. "I live by myself..."she said slowly, looking at him as if he was nuts. 'We have reason to believe that's not the case, ma'am,' one man said. Daniela looked at him." Alrighty then. I say one thing - you say another. What's the point in questioning."she grumbled. "Do you have proof to support your claim?" she asked, curious. The second man put a folder on the table and opened it. Inside were blurry pictures that looked like they had been taken from a cell phone of some of the less-human-looking of Daniela's guests. Daniela rose an eyebrow. "How... can you even tell what's in that picture? I sure as hell can't..." 'We believe the figure in this picture to be a non-human,' the man said, completely dead-pan. Daniela looked at them and then leaned back." Belief... and fact... are two different things gents."she said, crossing her legs. 'Nonetheless, we can detain you until you see fit as to prove to us this is in fact a human,' the man said. Daniela blinked. "And... how... am I supposed to prove that?" she asked. 'The simplest way would be to allow us full access to your home and property to search,' the man said. Daniela laughed." All you're going to find is cars and parts." 'In that case, you won't mind if we take a thorough look around,' the man said. Daniela bit her lip and leaned back. If she gave in, she ran the risk of them finding her hiding spots. But it was unlikely... she was a spy. She went in enemy territory and blended in for days. But these guys didn't mess around... they'd yank the walls out." Nope... sure don't." Please let them have gotten out of there. The men nodded. 'Good,' one said, and they stood up and turned to leave. "Hey - what about me?!"she shouted, pulling her wrists against the bar that held her. 'Someone will be along shortly to take you to your cell,' one of the men said, and closed the door behind him. "HEY!" Daniela shouted, getting up but was chained tightly to the table. After twenty minutes, a guard came in. He came beside Daniela and bent down to undo the handcuffs; as he did, he spoke softly in her ear.' I'm a werewolf. Salvatore contacted me. The people in your house are safe, don't worry.' Daniela was dumbfounded." W-h... U-uhh... thanks... you...."she stuttered softly, unsure what to say at the point. 'I'll get you out of here eventually,' the werewolf said, pretending to have difficulty with the handcuffs to excuse him talking to her so long, 'but it's going to take a while.' "Get me undone, and I'll get out myself."she whispered, smiling sweetly. 'Yeah. Good luck with that,' the werewolf said. 'I just need to get you to your cell, andthenyou can escape on your own so that I don't get in trouble.' "Deal. Let's get this show on the road. By the way - sorry for any future hits."she said in advance, smiling a bit. 'You're not escaping until I'm well away,' the werewolf said, lifting her up by her arm. 'There are human guards you can do that to.' Daniela smiled. She hoped that there was people she could beat up! Cooperating, she went with him as of the moment. The werewolf took her to a cell, outside which two guards were waiting. They nodded to each other, and one turned to unlock the door.' I need to go; have something I need to do,' the werewolf said. One of the guards started to protest, but the werewolf held up his hand to hold him back. 'You owe me this, Fred.' The man named Fred nodded, and took hold of Daniela's arm as the werewolf left. As soon as he did, the Detour made her move, sweeping her leg under the other guys and grabbing his arm and twisting it." Hi there."she said before knocking his head into the wall. "Well now that was a bit too easy. Now to play hide n go seek." she said, jumping up to the ceiling and slipping into the vents. It was a couple of hours later when Daniela -squeezing and grunting-fell out of a vent and into the water."Oh, this sucks."she grumbled, swimming for the shore. A tough-looking young girl with her hands determinedly in her pockets was waiting on shore. She jerked her head back. 'Through there. They never check there.' Daniela blinked. "Thank you?" she said then dived under and swam in the direction she showed to her. (She was indicating over land, but this works too.) Someone else was waiting at a point where Daniela would come up - a fairly ordinary if thin looking girl. Daniela climbed up and looked at the girl." Hi?"she said, curious. 'Through there,' the girl said, jerking her head into the trees. 'Follow the trail.' Rolling up her jean pants legs, Daniela pulled a cigarette out of nowhere and stuck it into her mouth, sucking up the fact that she was officially freezing. She followed the trail as she was told, shivering lightly. The trail wound and twisted. It became hard to follow. Daniela exhaled the smoke, taking a rest. "Nature hikes. Who needs 'em." she said, flicking the cigarette away. Before it touched the ground, it vanished and Daniela got up and followed it as best as she could. Someone looked down at her from the trees. 'Hey!' she called down, pointing to a small side-trail. 'Go that way.' Daniela was beginning to get unfazed by all the little pop-ups by random people. She nodded her thanks and followed like a good little assassin." I wonder where I'm going."she hummed to herself. This trail eventually came to a small, underground bunker, only noticeable when one walked over it and heard the sound of metal under their feet. It was well covered in leaves. Daniela rose an eyebrow and lightly stomped on the bunker." What in God's name."she stated, pushing the leaves aside. The bunker had two metal doors, with a lock on them. A small Post-It note attached to the lock gave the combination. Daniela put the combination in and opened it, closing it again behind her. She slowly made her way through the place, on high guard and wondering where the heck she was. There wasn't much light in the tunnel, but enough. There was a light every so often that didn't offer much, but it illuminated another Post-It note on a wall, which said,"Push this brick." It was pointing down to a very ordinary brick in the wall. As soon as Daniela disappeared below the surface, fairies came out of the wood and covered the door again. Daniela's head tilted, wondering -briefly- if she was on candid camera. Their version anyway. She poked the brick lightly, wondering what would happen next. The brick shifted slightly backwards, but not very far. Daniela blinked. She poked it harder, wondering if she hadn't pushed it enough." If this kills me, I'm haunting someone for the rest of their lives."she stated sarcastically. Sure enough, the stone moved more, but not all the way. So far, nothing seemed to indicate it was lethal. Nodding at her satisfaction - Daniela pushed the whole way through, only to jump back and wait and see what happened. The stone went back quite a way and teetered slightly. It was clear it would have to be pushed all the way through. "Oh for the love of Gaia and God!" Danikya grumbled. She stuck her skinny hand in and pushed it all the way back, making sure it couldn't be pushed anymore." Work now so I know if I need to kill anyone?" The block fell all the way back through the wall and fell out, leaving a hole. There was a rope hanging back there that was obviously meant to be pulled.(The hint that it would fall was where I mentioned it teetered...and where I said "pushed all the way through".) Daniela reached in as far as she could, grabbing it and yanking on it the best she could with what space she had.(sorrel XD;;) The wall swung back, seemingly on hinges. Behind it was a tunnel. Daniela watched as the door swung free of her hand and she rose an eyebrow." Eat me said the cake to Alice..."she said, laughing to herself as she went to the tunnel." Time to go to Wonderland, Alice~"she sang, going down the tunnel. Candles were lit every so often to provide a modicum of light. The tunnel seemed fairly even, though only wide enough for one person to walk at a time. A few figures came out of hiding in the bunker. They moved the stone back in place in the door, then pushed the door back again before taking the note and disappearing. Daniela moved through the tune as fast as she could, wanting to know who led her here and why - besides saving her ass. Eventually, and quite suddenly, stairs loomed out of the darkness. There seemed to be a fair amount of them. Daniela facepalmed." You must be shit tin me..." Danikya sighed heavily and started to grudgingly go up the steps. She grumbled darkly the whole way up, wondering who the hell built this place, why the heck would they build this place -even though she had inklings- and a bunch of other stuff. She finally couldn't see any more steps and she couldn't be happier. (Ah. Sorry. Meant to mention the stairs were going up.) {NOW I feel dumb XD;} (Haha, it's all right XD)The steps ended in a trapdoor. There was a latch on the inside, and light shining through the gaps in the planks. Daniela took a moment to fume. She was going to slap who ever was behind this door -or behind anything else she had to go through-silly. And she meant SILLY." How the heck do I get this thing open - with my magical pick door opening self?"{XD;; This is getting slightly amusing, how much she has to walk and stuffs. Its funny really} (He-he, yes it is.) The latch on the inside of the door just sat there, invitingly, like it was waiting for Daniela to open it. Danika sat down outside of it instead and lit up another cigarette. "The shit I go through..." she grumbled to herself, letting her trademark cursing slip into her language, not meaning for it. She stood up and stuck her fingers in the gap. "Damn - not skinny enough." she cursed, looking around for something she could use, hating to rely on any of her special 'gifts'. (Er, I did mention the latch was on the inside.) (inside or outside where Daniela is?) (Inside...)

The List (Me and Forever_Trapped)|rating:4.0

Last Breaths in Ashenport

Last Breaths in Ashen port northwestern Sword Coast, Fern Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth, Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)Between the heavy clouds and the endless rain, they might have been blind. In the occasional flash of lightning, however, the rain was forced aside by gusts of howling wind, allowing some groping sense of the trail ahead. The road was a veritable river of mud, twisted and winding through a copse of gnarled Helm thorn; a sod-soaked path staggering along the Sword’s rocky coastline, battered by white-capped swells. And beyond, visible only by the brightest thunderbolts, stood the town. From what they could see, the buildings were old and patched, and the roofs were shingled peaks. Just another village, it seemed, but something… Something… Black beak, avian eyes peering from within a dark hood, felt it as a certain tingle across his feathers, an awareness that his back presented a wide target. Call, riding close by, had to restrain an impulse to flick a glance at the nearest trees to see if something was drawing back a bowstring from there. Josiah Roundel didn’t need to look around; his feeling of teeth being on edge was not from the physical. Rather it was a sudden knot in his stomach – the kind he remembered from his early years, beneath the shimmering arcane shields of eldritch teachers, as the ether between planes stretched to screaming and the first implacable, puissant presences shouldered their way to the Prime Material. Cedric Vale’s hand strayed, without conscious direction on his part, to the hilt of the rapier that hung by his side, wrapped in oilcloth against the rain. The magic, within his mind, seethed, wrapping him in its protective strength like a snow viper coiling against a closing predator. Are Vi-Shane’s mind echoed with memory: sudden memories of the blackest, most bloodthirsty beasts that had come from Nava’s darkest tales. Memories of ice-white tooth and red blood and death. And just as quickly as the feeling had come, it was gone. Leaving only the cold, the rain, and the mud-caked road into the town of Ashen port.IOC:Spoiler Hide And over to you guys. You’re not far from town, obviously, and it’s thick wood all around you. Anything you want to do before you get in out of the rain? Black beak had not been able to shake the feeling of unease since he had made his first step into the true, honest-to-gods North. Yet as Ashen port grew closer, that feeling of dread spiked. It was little more than a forgettable stain on a map, as far as he was concerned, but there was something about it, he didn't like from the start. Maybe it was the rain. Bad weather had a tendency to darken one's mood. Once he had a dry roof over his head and a warm meal in his belly, no doubt he'd be feeling better. Like most menu, Black beak traveled barefoot. His clawed, scaly black feet squished in the mud, leaving behind distinctive avian footprints. Sometimes he cursed not being able to fly, like his ancestors no doubt had in the distant past. But as bolt after bolt of forked lightning pierced the gloom, he was thankful that he remained earthbound. Thanks to the darkness and weather, he was difficult to spot. Black feathers, black robe, and black skin blended into the gloom, and he carried no torch or lantern. Not that a torch could stay lit in this downpour... That was the way he preferred it, though. If nobody saw him, and nobody knew him, he was about as safe as he could be. Still, 'safety' was not a word that came to mind as one approached the dismal town of Ashen port... Cedric pulled his cloak tighter around his form, a half-hearted warding against the cold and the rain. It wouldn't work, the wind saw fit to make the rain assail him from all sides. If only he'd simply prepared different magics this morn... No, that was no way to think. He wasn't omniscient after all, a squall could come out of nowhere, he couldn't be expected to plan for everything. He felt soaked through to the core, and no amount of magical shifting would get the water out of his clothing. He'd been on the edge for much of the evening, storms were an omen. Be they a warning, a threat or a simple sea god's ire they always boded ill for someone. He couldn't shake the feeling that those people would be him and his companions. It was just one of those evenings he thought trying to shake off the ill feeling. By Myntra's grace they would all be fine, and he'd be proved a worry wart. Civilization was in sight, an inn and warm fire beckoned. He smiled slightly to himself and went back to focusing on putting one sodden boot in front of the other, mud cloying to hold him with each step. Briefly he debated striking up conversation, but words it seemed had turned sour with the weather. Rain and thunder did a wonderful job of killing conversation so on they trudged. Each, he supposed, in their own private worlds as he was. Are was never a fan of the rain. Less it was, perhaps, for the ominous gray of the storm than the sound of water splashing against mud - a continuous, almost rhythmic static overlaying an otherwise serene background. Plop. The night birds do not sing now; every so often she would hear the desperate ruffle of feathers as a hapless young is struck from its nest, its parents watching silently with the same emotionless eyes. Plop, plop. The forest lends its ears to silence, and as a single drop struck ground a gross of its companions will follow, each with its own chord and its own contribution to the storm. It was a unique sort of cacophony, and certainly, her wet fur and the inescapable weight of drenched leather did little to lighten her gloom. Even with her vision she could only faintly see the road, with rain dancing amidst the mud-covered grounds. Puddles of brown and gray had already obscured most of the already faint path, and were it not for the trees and branches on each side creating a Tori of makeshift frames - perhaps the only feature that was as constant and as gloomy as the rainfall here – she may have found herself lost amidst the forest. Almost without thought, her pace grew; her thin but powerful legs blurring within a torrent of mud and water. She was aware that her prized dress would be soiled here, but that consideration had scarcely crossed the girl’s mind. The storm appeared to grow by the passing minute, and she was already weary and cold. Plop. Instinctively, she scurried faster. A flutter of wings and an overhead screech informed Are of a bastion of civilization; before her stood a sea-bound village little more than a few thousand acres, appearing almost as gray and lifeless as the surrounding storm. The buildings were old – crude, even, the shingled roofs emitting a dull white aura as it halted the oncoming rain. It was a common village; no more remarkable than the crude huts of the Eldritch Veluuthra tribes, but this was not a time to demand luxuries. With a whistle, the girl called for her companion to descend, breathing an exasperated sigh at the sight of shelter. Perhaps finally, she could be safe from the bitter rain. Why is it, then, that I could not shake this strange apprehension? Josiah looked through the falling rain at his companions, wondering if their silence was due solely to the weather, or if they, like himself, felt that something was amiss in this place. The feeling of unease had been growing inside him this while time, and it seemed to him that a major summoning was underway. He considered discussing it with his companions, but decided against it for now. After all, they could be touchy when it came to the sort of creatures that could be summoned... As the town hove into sight through the rain, Josiah put aside such thoughts in favor of ones that involved a fire, a hot meal, and a soft bed. The northwestern Sword Coast, Fern Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth, Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)Although still rendered gray and miserable by the constant downpour, Ashen port actually looked better up close than it did from a distance. Many of the buildings were sturdier than they appeared; a few were even of quarried stone, rather than wood. And even in the inclement weather, several shops bustled with activity, and the light gleaming through many a window was bright and cheerful. The odd villager trudged his way along the muddy roads, shoulders hunched against the rain, going about this business or that. A gust blew up, and the salty tang of the sea, and the lingering odor of what must have been a century’s fishing slapped them across their collective noses. Even the torrential rains and winds could not completely strip the powerful stench from the air. The smell brought their purpose out here to mind: scrimshaw. They were out here, trudging through an afternoon which might as well have been midnight, for nothing more than scrimshaw – the carvings of the bone structure of the longish, found mostly in the lakes of Ten-Towns, but also in a few small ponds south of the Spine of the World. Rare, in a world where magic made many things abundant; and like all rare things, valued perhaps disproportionately. Scrimshaw was sometimes worth the price of a good magical item, if not more. And Ashen port, according to the sweating, fat merchant Delay Carriers who’d sent them out here, was to hold a trade fair for the year was to be held, and that scrimshaw would feature prominently amongst the (limited) wares the village had to offer. For the moment, though, there were more immediate concerns, chiefly a place out of the rain. They’d come into Ashen port via what was apparently the southern end, where the road crested a low, slush-wet hill, and surveying the town from here some buildings’ functions could be guessed at:Spoiler Hide 1. A large building which has the look of a tavern or inn.1a. Stables – which contribute to the look of the large building as a tavern or inn.2. What appears to be a shop amongst other shops, but with recently-whitewashed walls.3. Another shop, though the downward-pointed horseshoe on its gable suggests a blacksmith.4. A thick copse of trees, a good 75 feet across.5. A large stone building which looks like some kind of town hall.6. A squat building of dull, filthy stone. Its function isn’t discernible at the moment.7. The docks of Ashen port.8. From the smell alone, this would have to be a tannery – the stench of tanning chemicals and dyes lingers on the air, even at this distance.9. A grain mill.10. A fine-looking house, clearly a residence of someone wealthy.11. A church, set on a hill above the town to the northwest. Exactly which god it is devoted to is difficult to tell at the moment, though the architecture might reveal something of that.11a. A small residence – probably that of the local priest, given it’s on the same hill as the church.11b. A cemetery. Black beak glanced at his fellow soaked, miserable travelers. He didn't know them very well, but they didn't ask many questions, and that was fine with him. His voice, just this side shy of an annoying squawk, emanates from the torrential gloom." Hey, I think that big building's an inn or some such. How's about we dry off and get some hot grub in our bellies?" The prospect of drying his feathers sounded like heaven, and as far as the menu was concerned, he couldn't get there fast enough. The mud sucked at his clawed feet as he trudged on. "An inn sounds wonderful at this point. I could stand to dry off and get something to eat as well. " At this point Josiah was willing to do just about anything to get out of this weather. He sincerely regretted not taking the opportunity to learn that Endure Elements spell when he was back in Susan, but it hadn't seemed worth the additional days' effort at the time." It would probably be the best place to start finding contacts for the scrimshaw trade as well, making it that much easier to fulfill our commission and begone from this place." The weather was as a warm a welcome as Call could have expected to this side of the Mira and though his clothes were heavy with rain and the increased weight served only to drive his boots deeper into the gripping mud, the former spell hunter paid little attention to his own comfort. He had learned long ago to ignore his body's protests -- to quiet his mind and hone his focus on the task at hand. Scrimshaw. As Carriers had explained it, their task seemed simple enough, but Call had long abandoned any expectations of simplicity. A sense of unease had many miles ago settled in Call's chest, and it was growing stronger -- rather than weaker -- with each step he took away from Susan. He had not been this far north in years and given the circumstances, he was grateful for the driving rain. By the time they set foot in the inn, the rain will have washed away any sign of their passing. Ashenport was a small town indeed. So small, Call hoped, that the Arcane Brother would consider it a waste of their resources to plant agents amongst the town's inhabitants. Of course, the town was also small enough that if they did, it would not take long for those agents to discover Call's presence." Agreed. The sooner we leave this place the better,"Call raised his voice against the wind, echoing Josiah's sentiment. It was a meager attempt to assuage his doubts. Perhaps on a more pleasant day, Are would have been chatting away with these fellow travelers. It was strange, though: where it would have left other shamans - and druids - refreshed as a part of nature's cleansing, the rain had only made the girl more moody and exhausted in her travel. Falling carefully behind her companions' notice, she's slowly removing her leather vest as they busied themselves with the sight of the inn. The feel of rain was certainly no more pleasant than the cold water seeping through her armor, although the lack of a fifty-pound drenched leather on her shoulders was certainly a turn for the better. Like Josiah, she - too - wished that she had the foresight to prepare Endure Elements. She felt cold and helpless during this weather; every drop of rain stubbornly clung to her skin and fur, weighting her as if the sky itself had collapsed atop her body, crushing her with its unfathomable weight. Are quickly tossed her armor into her haversack, and with a few bounding leaps, quickly overtook her companions into the safety of what, presumably, was the local inn. Above her, Sheena quickly followed, screeching wildly as her own manner of expressing discontent for the rain. Ashen port, the northwestern Sword Coast Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)The five travelers made their way through the mud and rain to the largest building in the immediate vicinity. Different styles of architecture suggested the building had once been two or three separate shops, before someone sealed up the spaces between and knocked down the intervening walls. It now formed the largest structure in the area. Smoke rose from several chimneys, only to vanish into the falling rain. Firelight gleamed through several windows, and the sound of conversation -- nearly inaudible in the storm -- leaked from the doorway. A sign above that door, portraying a ship at full sail on a waveless sea, flapped violently in the wind. Felyndiira was first through the door. Sheena flapped in a second or two later, flicking drops of water over her mistress's hair as she tipped her wings and made for the rafters above. It was, indeed, a tavern and an inn by its size; three different patterns of wooden floor, at three slightly different levels, made up the common room. Beyond this single quirk, however, this might as well have been any other tavern: a bar stood on one side of the vast chamber, a staircase on the other, with a smattering of chairs and tables scattered throughout. Two fireplaces radiated a comforting warmth throughout the room, and several serving staff whirled about with tankards of ale and plates of smoked fish. The place was full, the druid noted; there'd have to be a good fifteen or twenty people in the room. Blackbeak, slipping in quietly behind her, picked out several bright details amongst those people. (His penchant for this, past companions had remarked, may have come from his somewhat smaller cousins that tended to haunt battlefields after the fact.) Although there was the usual chaos of people around tables, there were two foci of activity in the common room, clustered around two individuals at either end of the room. The first was a dark-haired woman at a table close to one of the fireplaces; The fire's heat was probably the justification for her off-the-shoulder gown otherwise wildly incongruent with the weather outside. The slight up curve to her ears and eyes gave her away as half-even, but no less beautiful for that fact. Black beak was no fine judge of humanoid beauty as such, but he'd have classed her as a perfect beauty were it not for the ugly white obscuring her left eye. Cataract, he thought to himself. Some of his own people had such conditions--although Khan-skeek, back in Callahan, had never had a problem operating with only one eye ... There was also a tattoo on her exposed (and milk-white) left shoulder: a glimmering gold leaf of some kind. It was the same tattoo glinting from biceps and wrists of some of the grim-looking humans sitting and drinking around her: guardsmen, Black beak decided. The look of readiness wasn't easy to disguise even at play. The second focus of activity was a black-bearded man, late forties, run to fat at the far end of the common room. An ocean-blue brooch glimmered at his shoulder, clasping a cloak in place stitched in an ornate pattern. There were about as many guardsmen around him as the woman had; again, the sort of men for whom room was made on a street. Or at a bar. Even across the room, you could sense the antipathy between the two groups. Josiah Roundel, coming in behind the others, had a sudden impression of a lodestone he'd been shown during his studies once, one placed between two pieces of magnetite; how the iron filings had streamed in patterns between the two, but the two magnets had remained steadfastly apart. The rest of the room, at least to Black beak, if not the others, didn't seem to have many people particularly of note. Black beak did see one male human with two bodyguards sitting with him. The twenty something man had the decline, but strong fingers of an artisan wrapped around his tankard. Three serving staff: a rake of a man; an older, matronly sort of woman; and a young blonde woman who'd been blessed by Sun eat least in the chest area, and clearly knew it given the way her barmaid's dress gaped halfway to Water deep. At the bar, the typical barkeep: solid, stout, sour expression, beads of sweat on his brow, and a cleaning cloth that seemed perpetually in motion.IOC:Spoiler Hide Call (crypt): Spoiler Hide Make a Perception check. +2 to the check on top of everything else. Josiah (Fireboard): Spoiler Hide Make a Perception check. +2 to the check on top of everything else. Black beak took in the scene with many a quick, sudden jerk of his head. Although he had perfectly fine binocular vision, he had a tendency to view things with one eye on either side of his head, not unlike the habit of many more traditional birds. Not wishing to cause a scene (not uncommon, considering his unorthodox race in these parts), he stuck to the shadows as he made his way to the bar. Silver was already in his hand by the time he claimed a stool." What's hot on the menu, Goodman? Any recommendations?" The barkeep didn't look particularly amiable, but it never hurt to open with a friendly tone. A beak wasn't made for smiles, but the menu's beady black eyes sparkled with a playful light, and he leaned on the bar with one scaly elbow in a jaunty fashion. The Smooth Sailing Tavern and Inn, Ashen port Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)The barkeeper's cloth ended its ceaseless wiping for a moment. His heavy, grim face peered at the menu. "You want something, bird man, ask one of m' barmaids. I look like a gods-damned meet-an'-greet t' you?" The cloth resumed its wiping -- well down the bar from where Black beak now sat. Cael (crypt):Spoiler Hide Of all the places Call had expected to find a guilds woman of the Durkheim, the last would have been the common room of this inn. Still, that was exactly what the half-even woman with the blind eye was; the gold leaf tattoo made it clear. Its position on her shoulder indicated she was highborn; the higher up on one's body it lay, the more prominent within the guild's ranks. Only the guild masters of the Durkheim had that gold leaf gleaming from their necks or foreheads. The Arcane Brotherhood had done a fair amount of business with the Durkheim; the guild of trade merchants had been in Susan almost as long as the Brotherhood had, and though the Durkheim kept their business scrupulously independent of the Brotherhood's tentacles, they coveted gold and influence almost as much as the mages did. Josiah (Fireboard):Spoiler Hide The pattern on the black-bearded man's cloak was familiar: such patterns often identified family allegiances in Water deep, where Josiah was from. This cloak was of the Creel family, and with a jolt of recognition, Josiah realized he was staring at none other than Matthias Creel -- the blue gem and black beard confirmed it. Creel was out of a fairly large trading company named Surreys, Creel, and Blackwell. It, too, was Waterdhavian in origin and by reputation specialized in the investigation, recovery, and -- dare we say it? -- covert acquisition of antiquities both magical and mundane. Black beak sighed, tapping his beak with a pointed claw." I prefer 'Maybird,' actually. Or 'crow person.'"he muttered to himself, loud enough that the barkeep might overhear him." Fine way to run a business. 'Hello, I'm a pleasant customer willing to pay good coin!' 'Go drown in a barrel, feather freak.' Makes perfect sense to me... Ah, the hospitality of the north." Blackbeak had half a mind to rob the man blind, now. He sat and twiddled his thumbs, deciding to watch the scene for the moment... Spoiler Hide 'Go drown in a barrel, feather freak,' was spoken in the exact same voice of the barkeep, thanks to the menu's racial mimicry ability. Josiah smirked slightly at the barman's response to Black beak. He wondered how much coin the rude man would have left in this inn once the "Maybird" finished teaching manners. He had come to know the Maybird fairly well over the last few months, and was sure that Black beak was certainly capable of doing something like that. Whether he chose to or not was, of course, his choice. Taking the hint, however, Josiah sidled up to a table near Black beak and waved to the serving wench to come over. As he waited, he took a closer look at their company within the inn's serving room. The man with the black beard looked vaguely familiar, and it took but a moment to recognize him. Leaning towards the others, he spoke softly"The man with the black beard and blue gem over there - no! Don't look at him now - is a dangerous man. One who specialises in acquiring things that don't belong to him. Be careful of him and his henchmen. They are a dangerous lot." As the serving wench approached, Josiah lightened his normally dour appearance and smilingly asked for some ale to drink and something hot to eat. Call's eyes swept once across the crowded great room, making a brief and seemingly casual study of those gathered therein. He immediately registered the band ofAurohiim, and though he felt his pulse quickening, he was careful not to betray his surprise. Glancing knowingly to his companions, he moved to follow Josiah to the table near the bar, detouring slightly. His chosen route was not the most direct, but it brought him parallel with the bar. As he passed Black beak, he placed a steady hand on one of the menu's pointed shoulders. Call had little desire for trouble with the barkeep and even less for the group to draw more attention to their presence than was absolutely necessary. TheAurohiim were the Arcane Brotherhood's competitors much more than they were their business partners and if the Lords of the Gilded Leaf considered this isolated town worthy of one of their highborn daughters, then the Host Tower's agents would not be far behind. With no great effort, Call slung the massive bow off his shoulder and leaned it against the edge of the table. It was nearly as long as he was tall and as he took his seat, the weapon loomed over him. He did not immediately recline, but instead sat upright for a moment, adjusting the multitude of quivers strapped to his body. The arrows clattered around as he shifted their positions and though each quiver was capped to protect its contents from the rain, the varied and muffled sounds gave some vague clue to the respective purpose and design of the arrows they contained. Cael made certain to select a seat that afforded him a clear view of the tattooed half-elf and her guards across the room. He was careful not to stare, although he did observe--it was a subtle difference, but he was a practiced observer. When Josiah spoke up about the black-bearded man, Call nodded his understanding of the summoner's discretion, all too aware of the irony in his words. Aquiring things that don't belong to him? A dangerous lot, indeed. He added a dark brew to his companion's order and then waited for the barmaid to attend to other patrons." His friends across the room,"he began, quietly, once she had stepped away,"they are called the Durkheim. Their symbol is the golden leaf, and they are one of Susan's oldest trade guilds. Their power and wealth is considerable, and she--"he hardly needed to clarify to whom he was referring,"--is one of their favored representatives." Spoiler Hide I just wanted to mention that with Favored Enemy: Organists and the Nemesis feat, Call is able to determine whether any individual within 60 ft. of him is able to cast arcane spells or invocations, or use arcane spell-like-abilities. It would be ridiculous for me to expect you to mention every single organist that he happens to pass on the street, but for those individuals that seem important (i.e. the highborn Durkheim, her bearded rival or their various guards) I would be very interested to know of any arcane aptitude (not that should I necessarily know that information right now since I don't know how large the tavern is). The Smooth Sailing Tavern and Inn, Ashen port Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)Luckily or otherwise depending on one's gender and/or preferences in that direction, it was the young, buxom blonde who flounced over to their table and took Josiah's order. She did step away after he'd given his order, long enough for Call to mutter his comments, but then was back at the table again." How hot do you want it?" she asked Josiah with a winning smile. "The smoked fish you've ordered, that is."IOC: ryptSpoiler Hide Thanks for that underlining -- I must say I'd missed that, but it's a rather cool little ability you've got! As it is, Call's nose/eyes/soul don't detect any organists within the common room at all. Fair enough that he can't see the rooms above, but his spider sense mage sense isn't tingling to suggest anyone's got arcane ability, invocations, or spell-like abilities within 60 feet of him. Well, aside from Josiah and Cedric Vale (if he's here), but you'd already know that. Josiah looked at the barmaid with a slight smile on his face. It was obvious the girl used her charms outrageously in her line of work, and he certainly wasn't immune to them. "I'd like it hot enough to keep me warm for a while, but not enough to scald me. I hope that won't be a problem." The Smooth Sailing Tavern and Inn, Ashen port Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)"Not at all, my lord," said the barmaid, bending forward. "We specialize in that sort of thing here. And the ale's cold enough to cool you down after you've ... had your fill." She smiled coquettishly, turned, and was back towards the kitchen in a moment. Black beak hops off the bar stool and joins the others at the table. He eyes Josiah incredulously." And people call our mating rituals shameless. That's how they get you, you know. You think she gives a rat's ass about a half-drowned sack of meat like you? She'd just as soon rob you in your sleep. This whole place smells fishy to me. Haw!" Josiah smirked at Black beak and said"Mating rituals? Not at all. I am sure the lass throws the same look and cleavage at any male who walks in the door. It raises her tips and is likely a great source of fun for her. For me? Well, I wouldn't say I don't enjoy a good tease now and then, but I don't expect she'll be ripping her clothes off and throwing herself on me. It's a game ... and one that is enjoyable if you know the rules." "Josiah, please, I know. I'm just giving you a hard time. Besides, I know you like little boys anyway." Blackbeak drums his fingers on the table, prepared to dodge any wayward punches. "Watch your beak little bird, or I'll send something crawling through your window some night." Josiah was only half-joking. He liked the bird man, Maybird, whatever, but wasn't about to let anyone get away with free remarks disparaging his character. Human architecture is a strange - and strangely flexible one. The inn of this town, marks of age aside, had been modeled and re-adapted with almost no care for its presentation. The various walls of the building stood in sharp contrast of each other; the girl could swear that the building was once smaller and divided, and on some random whim of the villagers, carelessly combined into an enigma of a place that was, on all accounts, asymmetric and rather unpleasant to the eyes. And yet, even their lack of artistic insight seem to be directly related to their material wealth. Humans of higher status - usually identified by weighty jewelry on their clothing and fine silk weaves - often pride themselves on making their mansion a work of art, even going beyond their means to create hallways of empty paintings and weird statues. The statues bear special mention - her journey insofar had been brief, although the winged demonic creatures and aberrations that had adorned most human mansions were uncountable. They almost seemed to hint at fiendish worship; yet, most of their residents would become offended at its mere mention. She didn't know which was more unpleasant - the inn's simple mishmash of years of crude evolution, or the fruitless decorations andgargoylesthat the human elites prided themselves upon. Nevertheless, the other visitors paid it no heed. The inn was still relatively busy by a town's standards; perhaps three or four heads more than the others at this hour. With eyes colored by the cold and the sweet aroma of fish before her, Are quickly dismissed the architecture of the room. Instead, she sat beside the wizard and, half-listening to their quibbles, petitioned for a servicewoman after a brief relaxation." I would like a jug of cider, or water if you do not have it," she declared, then added with an eager countenance, "Ah - and that dried fish and nutmeg that I smell - what is it called? I would like a dish filled with that, if it is not too expensive. And a large towel, if you have it. For, well, you know..." Spoiler Hide IOC: BTW, Saint, you mistyped Are name as my forum ID in your Inn post. Felyndiira:Spoiler Hide Loops! Already you and your character are becoming one... The servicewoman who came to their table in response to Are's request was not, fortunately or unfortunately, the blonde. If there was a title to be applied to her from the look of her, it was not barmaid, but old maid. A heavyset woman with silver trailing in her thinning black hair, she nodded at the druid's request. "Aye. Cider we have - not everyone in this part of the world has a thirst for strong drink." The woman glanced in the direction of the fire lit doorway that led to the kitchen. "And to your other request, I shall. If I may, safer, you have a good nose. The cook does makesaltam'Becca-- it's the dish you smell -- but I'm surprised you ken it from out here." Black beak squinted at Are, his fingers fidgeting absentmindedly." Now, see, that's what I call 'mammalian favoritism.' I wouldn't call a cat folk in these parts any more unusual than a menu, yet the fact that you weren't hatched from an egg earns you better service than me and my poor feathers. Heck, you even get praise for your perceptive schnoz. Truly, the gods are cruel. Looks like I have to take matters into my own claws." Blackbeak flags down the male server, to complete the experience." Hey! You there! What's a bird man gotta do to get a plate of hot grub in front of his beak? I'll start with a glass of red, and if'n you don't have wine, I'll just get more depressed and have an ale instead. What kinda fish you got?" Call nursed his beer and sighed through clenched teeth as he considered how they all must have looked to the native townsfolk. It was unlikely that there was another menu or cat folk within a hundred miles of Ashen port. And even if there were, none of them would have been as...outspoken as Black beak. Still, Call's mind was set at ease by the knowledge that he had yet to detect the presence of any organists other than Josiah and Cedric. Above all else, the Arcane Brotherhood was proud of their magic and if the crowd in this inn was any indication of the rest of the town's arcane aptitude, then that magic would shine like a lighthouse beacon. Spoiler Hide Actually, the Nemesis feat explicitly penetrates barriers and obstructions such as doors and walls. The Smooth Sailing Tavern and Inn, Ashen port Some time after high sun, Second of Marpenoth Year of Lightning Storms (1374 DR)The waiter was tall; good-looking in a country sort of way, though there was a twinkle to his eye as he moved across to speak with the menu. "We have the house red, safer -- no great vintages, of course, but our local grapes were passable this year." Aer Vi-Shane:Spoiler Hide Something crossed Are's memory like the smell of smoke on the wind. As far as she'd heard, even the hardiest varieties of grape were no match for the winds this far north. The only grape crops she'd seen were in Never winter, with its perpetual warm streams to hold back the Ice peak's cold north westerlies. And even then, tough Demon's Tear gave only shrivelled, bitter fruit, when it survived to Harvest tide at all. "As for fish, there's fresh Kingmaker -- caught this morning, just before the storm blew in. I might be able to rustle up the last rainbow one we've got. Hopefully that might pay for the earlier ... incident?" The waiter smiled, leaning in. "Don't mind Pieter too much. He always gets grumpy around this time of year. He'd much rather fewer people in the inn to give him an easier time." The waiter stood, one rakish eyebrow raised, awaiting the menu's response.IOC: crypt:Spoiler Hide Either way, no sources of arcane power within 60 feet in any direction bar your buddies. "Thank you, my good man. The Kingmaker sounds fine. And don't concern yourself too much with the noises I make; most of its hot air." Blackbeak clacks his beak appreciatively and rubs his claws together. "Hot enough to start fires,"Call added in an appreciably deadpan manner before turning to the waiter. For the briefest of moments, he considered inquiring about sharp-nosed long fin; it had been a favorite of his in Susan. But asking such a question would have invited more questions--questions Call had no mind to answer." I'll have the kingmaker as well." "Hmm, I wonder how they grow these 'local wines'," Are pondered briefly, though quickly filing away the thought as the smell of warm food and drink clouded her judgment. There would be time to ponder the intricacies of the local agriculture later in the day; for now, food and drink were the top priorities. That, and perhaps the merriment of stories exchanged over the tabletop amongst comrades and friends." Ah - Josiah," she whispered, softly enough such that only her fellow travelers could reasonably hear the inquiry. "That black-bearded man you mentioned - I would love to hear more about him, if you are willing. What manner of devilry makes him such an unsavory character in these parts?" Josiah eyed the Maybird contemptuously for a moment, as Black beak used his all-to invasive screeching voice to call over another waiter. Hearing Are's question though, he smoothed the frown from his face and turned to her. In a low voice, Josiah replied"The man's name is Matthias Creel. He belongs to a large trading company based out of Water deep. It is widely known, but rarely acknowledged, that Matthias heads up the family's...covert acquisition branch. Basically he does whatever is necessary to acquire the item or items of interest to the family. And from what I hear, doesn't worry about "legal rights of ownership" or the consequences of "assault by assailants unknown" while he goes about it. Of course, the rumors could be just that...but somehow I doubt it." The young man thought about the intricacies and intrigue involved in the various businesses and politics of Water deep. It seemed that every time he turned around he ran into another strand of the web spun from that city. Call studied the bearded Waterdhavian for a moment before glancing to the highbornAurohiimand back to Josiah." That puts two of the Sword Coast's largest merchant families in one of its smallest towns,"he said wearily, giving voice to what he assumed each of his companions had been thinking." I doubt that they are here to appreciate the folk art." It only took a few minutes for the meals to arrive, and they proved to be just as tasty as they smelled. Good food; good drink; outside, the rain and winds howling. For their part, Creel and the woman from theAurohiimdid nothing to engage either the party or each other. They seemed content to remain nursing their own ales and meals as the time wore on.IOC:Spoiler Hide Any chatting, or anything you wanted to do here? It's still afternoon, of course, though the rain clouds are pretty thick and black, and it's still pouring outside; if you had business to transact you could certainly do so. Josiah enjoyed his meal in quiet solitude, answering the others as they spoke to him, but for the most part keeping to himself. It was how he preferred things, usually. Oh, he didn't mind interacting with other people - as long as they didn't judge him openly for his life's calling - but there was always an undercurrent of unease that tended to push the young man inside himself. Of course, with this crew it is a little different. How could it not be with a menu, a cat folk, and all of us 'itinerant adventurers'? This is about as far from usual as it gets. Finishing his food, he winked at the buxom serving wench and waved his hand in front of his mouth as if it were on fire, then tossed back his ale and gestured for another. He didn't intend to get roaring drunk tonight, but he wasn't going to suffer this weather and the smell of a fishing town without some form of liquid fortification, either. Call made short work of his kingmaker, adeptly removing the fish's delicate bones and stacking them on side of his plate. He did not speak much while he ate, but after finishing, he conversed with the others for as long as it took him to finish his beer. Once his mug was empty, he excused himself from the table and approached the bar, clearing his throat as he came to lean against the counter." Sir,"he called to the heavy-set barkeep, flipping a coin idly along the tops of his fingers." Have you four empty beds?" He gestured back toward the group's table." We'll be needing accommodations at least until the trade fair begins."IOC:Spoiler Hide If there's some other area of the inn that would have seemed more appropriate for Call's inquiry, assume that he went there instead. It is always interesting to watch a menu eat, especially for those unfamiliar with them. A beak is most definitely not a mouth with teeth. Black beak tears at his food, only using utensils to portion morsels easily plucked in their entirety by a swift peck. He does not chew either, but swallows each bite whole, to be ground in his gizzard later. He handles his wine glass with surprising ease (practice makes perfect), delicately manipulating the glass with sharp claws and beak such that he does not leave a single scratch. Despite the manual dexterity required of these tasks, he eats very quickly, perhaps even daintily.Afterward, he pats his stomach and clacks his beak satisfactorily." Well, at least the food ain't bad here. Anyone up for a game of chance? Dice? Cards? The finger dance?" When Call's inquiry with the barkeeper went somewhat unanswered, he turned instead to one of the wait staff -- the tall man, this time, the one who'd called the barkeeper "Pieter" -- who passed by." Four empty beds?" repeated the man. "Actually, yes, we do. You're lucky; that'll be about the last beds in the place. And you're here for the trade fair -- good! This storm might keep it off for a day or so, but it was due to start tomorrow. Anything in particular bringing you out here?" Meanwhile, back at the table, the twenty something man with delicate hands had lifted his head at Black beak's last words, his face brightening. He beckoned at his two guardsmen with himself and made his way across to the party's table. "Thank Tumor watching over lost and forlorn gamblers!" he said. "You pardon, safer -- menu? Did I catch you to say you were seeking a game of chance? If so, by all the gods with an interest in luck, I beg you -- let me take a round with you. Nobody else in this gods-cursed inn seems to know or want to stake. Do you honor the Tali's, or is it Old Man's Bones?"IOC:Spoiler Hide All of you would know "honor the Tali's" as a query whether you know the card game played with a Tali's Deck -- a deck of 78 cards, similar to a Tarot deck. It can be played with a number of rules and variations, but it's basically the highest value of the cards in hand after two rounds wins - similar to poker. All of you would also know Old Man's Bones is similar to the modern game of pick-up sticks, the object of the game being to remove the bones from the pile you have dumped them into one at a time without toppling the pile. (The bones are usually made from a fowl). Black beak snaps a finger crisply, spreading his arms wide." Your prayers have been answered! I enjoy a good game of Tali's myself. Come, sit, be welcome. Maybe we can make the hours pass by quicker if something real is at stake?" Spoiler Hide How would a game be resolved? A profession (gambling) check? The stranger's hands twitched, even as his smile grew wry. "What did you have in mind, safer?"IOC:Spoiler Hide Pretty much, though let's call it best of three roll-offs. Feel free to go wild IC with plays, strategies, rules variations, etc. -- even name cards in the deck if you want, it's not like we've got a list to work with. :) The girl had sampled her meal with reverie, allowing the full flavor of the fish to flow through her tongue before swallowing each bite. She had placed little attention on her companions while doing so, almost solemnly glancing at the bearded man - Creel - at every opportunity. The man was dangerous, certainly, and not one with whom she wished to interact, but there was always a sort of fancy - an air of mystery, if you will - surrounding people of such great renown. A bit disappointing, it was, that Josiah did not seem to know too much about him; she would have gladly added his story to her collection of things she wishes to understand. She finished her last drop of cedar with a sigh. The inn was quickly growing weary to her; it had no excitement, dammit! Certainly, the fish was a delight to the mouth and the cedar was quite tasteful, although there was a distinct lack of rowdiness that she had almostexpectedfrom such a human establishment. Where are the drunken dwarves dancing on tables? The laughter and stories from veteran mercenaries that would resound across the room? The Randy and tense gambling? Ah..." Did I catch you to say you were seeking a game of chance?" Are's cat-like ears jumped up in anticipation; even as Call reserved their night's lodgings, she did not pay much attention - rather, her eyes, almost shimmering with a child-like anticipation, was focused wholly on the game of losing money that was about to play out on her very table." Talis," she laughed, forgetting that her garments were still cold from the rain. "Ah, I hope you do not mind me watching for a game or two? How much are you going to bet, Mr. Black beak?" "Watching's no fun! I say you join us once you think you got the rules down. Basically, you're dealt a hand, then play through several 'tricks' until the deck runs dry. You keep your hand to yourself now, unless we're playing Balder's Gate rules, where we've got two communal cards face up. If you're dealt the Queen of Cups, you..." Blackbeak goes on to enthusiastically describe how to play the game and several different variations, before proceeding to play. Spoiler Hide What's a fair amount to bet? 10 silver? Profession (gambling) checks: (1d20+4)[12] (1d20+4)[15] (1d20+4)[12] Originally Posted by Saint heart When Call's inquiry with the barkeeper went somewhat unanswered, he turned instead to one of the wait staff -- the tall man, this time, the one who'd called the barkeeper "Pieter" -- who passed by. "Four empty beds?" repeated the man. "Actually, yes, we do. You're lucky; that'll be about the last beds in the place. And you're here for the trade fair -- good! This storm might keep it off for a day or so, but it was due to start tomorrow. Anything in particular bringing you out here?" "Scrimshaw,"Call replied somewhat absentmindedly and with a notable lack of enthusiasm. His attention was momentarily focused elsewhere as he watched the young man, bodyguards in tow, moving purposefully toward their table. Only once he saw Black beak's welcoming gesture did Call turn back to the waiter." Do you expect the weather to affect turnout for the fair?"IOC:Spoiler Hide I just wanted to mention (for when we eventually retire for the evening) that Call will have an interest in the details of their room arrangements. Number of beds to a room, interior vs. exterior rooms, that kind of stuff. Old habits die hard. "Oh, no, I must insist on watching," Are smiled, quietly hiding her excitement at the ongoing game. "I'm rather fond of my silvers, you see, and games of chance are a deal more fun when others are doing the betting. That's my view, at least." IOC: crypt (and everyone else):Spoiler Hide When you get round to it, you've drawn a nice, defensible spot for your rooms. The stairs from the common room lead to the rooms above, and it looks to be the only stairway up there. One corridor about eighty feet long, no twists, no turns, solid wooden doors on either side of the corridor with a smallish window up the far end. However, the party has drawn the four rooms -- two each side of the corridor, one person to each room -- closest to the staircase. Each room has a window, but you'd be roughly fifteen, twenty feet off the ground up a sheet wall to get into it. How you assign the rooms is up to you. "Not really," said the waiter with a smile to Call's question. "Given the trade fair was due tomorrow anyway, I think everyone who'd want to be there is already here. Of course, someone could head off into the storm before tomorrow, but I doubt they'd risk that. Scrimshaw, huh? Guess you must've got Alderman Ritter's missive. Well, there'll be plenty of that at least. And not much competition for it, from what I hear." Across the room, the twenty something man -- he'd introduced himself as Sandal Then, a sculptor by trade -- lay his cards down, shaking his head as the last hand came in. "Tumor's teeth! Bad hands, every draw; everything from the Dark Tower to the Knight of Five Sorrows." He grinned, though, reaching into his purse and laying out 10 silver onto the table. "Never mind; it's well worth the price, if only to get the cards moving again. Where'd you learn your card play, safer?" he asked, expertly gathering the cards and flicking them one by one into the small black lacquered wood box he carried. "I've not seen people bet on the Five of Avian before. Though I suppose that might be a personal preference?" Call's eyes narrowed, his brow furrowing slightly. Carrinust... He pushed the thought aside and his expression relaxed somewhat." Alderman Ritter?" His interest was still readily apparent." No. He is a local official? What is his interest in the trade of scrimshaw?" "As a point of fact, we are merely...acquisition agents for the scrimshaw, hired by...well, no matter. In fact our employer might well have received the Alderman's missive, though we have certainly not read it. Pray tell, if you can, what did it contain?" Josiah was in full intellectual mode now that they were indoors and appeared to not be in any danger of being accosted or choking on a fish bone. And he really was curious as to why the four of them were sent. Likely it was because they were leaving Water deep anyway and were cheaper than a merchant and a brace of bodyguards, but there was always the chance that something else was afoot. Black beak collects his earnings, flipping one of the newly acquired coins between his claws." Well played, sir. I can't go giving away my winning secrets, though, can I? To tell you the truth, you mammals are way easier to read than us beaked folk. Your lips betray you, but my beak remains just as obnoxious and nondescript as ever, regardless of how the cards fall." A pity that the game was so...one-sided, the girl thought with a half-bemused smile. The young man - Sandal something, was it? - was quite the spirited gambler, although there was little that a man could do when luck was not on his side. On the other side, the avian could not resist making another remark on race - something that she had heard many times on their journey to this little port-town, and something that, quite strangely, bemuses Are to no end." Ah, that is interesting," she replied coyly, staring teasingly at Black beak while she pointed to the Tali's cards, "I do wonder, on that last hand there, when you had chanced on the five of avian, what if Sir Sandal had - in place of the tower - drawn the queen of cups? Or even the seven of cups? Would he have won the ten silvers in your place? Just trying to learn the rules to this fascinating game." Spoiler Hide Do I need a bluff check to try to convince Black beak that Are doesn't know how to play cards, just for fun =p? (1d20)[8] Josiah smiles at Are's attempt at innocent inquiry. It may only be true, but somehow he didn't think so. He had dealt with enough fiendish creatures who had asked "innocent" questions with that same insouciant air to believe it entirely. He said nothing though, allowing the Catwoman her play. Spoiler Hide Sense motive check (1d20+2)[9] Black beak gives Are a wink, then cracks his neck and stretches." Well, folks, as they say in the business, 'leave them wanting more.' I believe I will retire and rest these hollow bones. Mishaps we'll have a jolly time on the morrow shopping or some noise." Spoiler Hide Black beak passes his Sense Motive check automatically, getting an 11 on a natural 1.

Last Breaths in Ashenport|rating:3.0

Trinity Blood (yes I noticed that all the others came to a stop so I thought I could start over)

Long before the time of Caterina Sorta Abel and Cain were watching the humans they detested so much they saw a young woman who appeared to be inhuman she was very graceful and fast her body seemed to never need nourishment, and she never went out in the sun. She was a Methuselah of course. Abel soon came to notice that Cain would watch her everyday. One day Abel thought to watch this beautiful Methuselah Andre noticed that she was nowhere in site. He went to find Cain and found him leaving the Station for experimentation. When he asked about the girl Cain ignored him and said to let it go there was nothing else to be done. 900+ years later Abel was in love with the humans he had despised and was working for the Vatican, but then he found out his diabolical brother was still alive. He decided to take care of that once and for all. In the most recent years he met a boy named Ion Fortuna who asked to go along with him so he could save the now Queen Ester Blanchet from the Venice. Abel also still had his ties to the Vatican. There are also others willing to help him out, but he is a loner for the most part and will send them off one at a time if he has to. Rules:Same as always from me:NO cyberingFollow the site rules NO god moving even if you are Abel or Cain keep the foul language to a minimum If you Quote the bible (Cain likes to) please be accurate Don't Type what another person's chart would to at that moment Send me requests please Recreated Characters: (the show characters here are the only ones that are up for grabs if another needs to be in for a small bit please make sure that you don't assume that you are that character for the whole RP)Abel Night road * SaiyanaCain Night road Icekat311 (for now)Seth Night road Saiyana2Ester Blanchet ChyanimeIon Fortuna * icekat311Duchess of Odessa Strophe Asian Saiyana2Kemfer: * Icekat311Detrich Icekat311(characters that no one can play because they died)Noelle (mistress)Know Faith (Václav Havel)(um...did I miss any dead Characters)Character Skeleton (My Character will be updated often. She is very unknown right now. I am attempting to the skeletons like Tree would speak them)Name: Amaya KusakabeRace: CrusnikAge: Unknown Abilities: Unknown Location: Nonmembers Pet Appearance at last sighting:Other Knowledge: Kidnapper was most defiantly Cain Night lord/road are we to choose and RP only the characters above throughout?can't we create our own character in this?please let me know trinity blood is my favorite anime I would like to play Duchess of Odessa Strophe Asian (Asia) if I may. I believe she is a good romantic opposite for Abel. He is her towards after all, and she is a friend of his sister Seth, the Empress Augusta Vlasic. Is this going to be based on the anime, the manga and or the graphic novels? What's the name of the Sister with the red hair that's always with Abel. I can NOT remember her name... that's ester she is on the list can anyone help me find more people for this RP Ok, then I want to be ester! ^.^ OK that fine with me, Thanks! you're welcome... Now all we need is Abel, and we could start I think that is true I am the evil characters muwahahaha Kemp her and Amaya (she may not end up evil not sure) If you wanted to start I suppose I could play Abel until we can find someone I have played multiples before. Ok me to that would be great it is gonna start in a café area like were you first meet on member.edit:On Member was sitting having his morning coffee not far from the Vatican where his pets target was Speaking of pets she was sitting so quietly he was worried so he rubbed her head, "hey it's ok Amaya he won't even know it's you." He took another sip of his coffee and watched as she lifted a goblet of a deep red substance." I don't want to hurt him, but master says I must It's so activating." She just stared at the empty glass remembering the tall funny man who found her in his brothers room tied to the wall. Here is her now: (ok you should pm the others that we have started the RP)Father Abel hurries to the coffee shop that the mysterious note indicated he should come to. He is very worried about the message it contained. It had been very short and terse." If you wish to protect Queen Esther come to Antonio's alone at 1030 hrs." He pushes up his glasses with his finger. A frown furrows his normally pleasant features." I wonder who would dare to threaten the new Queen of Albion." Ester sat in her room, on the big, elegant window seat with her nose stuck in a book. She wore a simple dress, almost like a nightgown, since she was in the comfort of being alone in her room and not having to worry about appearances for the rest of the people. Sometimes, she would lift her head from her studies and look out the window and sigh at the perfect scenery. Everything was almost too perfect. She missed Father Abel and his adventures; the way he could be so absent-minded one moment, then scarily serious the next. A lock of red hair fell from its spot, and she absentmindedly brushed it back behind her ear. ((ok I will do my best))Father tree was following Abel at a safe distance, since he could fall down at any minute, "Father Abel Night road please relax. If you keep this up you won't Beale to hold your own. Ion was following far behind because of his short stature, "Please Abel Tree why don't you slow down? I have the body of a young child."" Von Member how is it that I ended up with the master?" She was just noticing her target flaying toward the quiet café for some reason her heart beat fast, normally only member did that. "It's him it's brother Abel." Kemfer sadistically smiled at his little pet and nodded her out to meet him, "go on now prove his lordship wrong." Ayama stood remembering how member thought of her as a Nicene and unusable in battle. She marched over to able and stopped him in his tracks, "Brother Abel Night road, Brother Cain has sent me to meet you, I am Amaya," Able stops and looks at the two of them "Father Tree I do wish you would stop following me the note specified alone, you will jeopardize my mission and that goes for you too Ion. I will be perfectly alright. Please return to our rooms. I will come back as soon as I can." He whirls on his heel and hurries to the coffee shop. Approachinghis destination, Abel stops as a young girl comes towards him. His eyebrows quirk up as she speaks, gazing down as her, he says, "What does Cain have to do with a lovely lady like yourself. His company is not the best acquaintance for someone as sweet and innocent yourself." He smiles at her winningly. "Are you the one that has the information about Queen Esther's safety?" Ayala was confused he didn't remember her did she look that different now that she was one of them, no she was worse she drank different blood. "Abel you don't remember me, at all.....and I don't know anything about Her Majesty but maybe master Member knows." She looked back to the table where they had been seated before, and he had stood and was walking toward them." Hello there Lord Night road" He laughed at the innocent face his pet was giving him, "Now it was I that threatened the queens safety. I wasn't to let my little pet know. Of course Abel you know that who Cain's Pet was don't you. You tried to save her, but now she is my pet." He laughed as he pulled Ayala into a tight grasp around the waist, pulling her to him. At the castleDeitrich was happy he got to play with his favorite toy again, "Ester my large don't you want to play with me," He appeared behind her and stroked his hands along her arms, "Oh you look Devine, I have told you I love you right." (I'm going to have Abel have a bit of amnesia due to having been killed and then revived,)Abel's brow furrows, "I'm sorry I don't remember you my child." He glares at Member, "What are you doing here? You are very bold coming here in broad daylight." Father Night road draws his gun and points it at Member,"I arrest you in the name of the Vatican." ((Dietrich... I haven't seen the series in so long I can't remember :sweat: Little help?)) ((Dietrich is the one that was in love with ester he took over Reid's body when he died, and he was almost killed by Seth in Radius body))"Haven't we been through this before you can't touch me, Abel, heeled. You don't remember Ayala Lusaka. The little vampire you two would watch from you high and mighty place in the sky. She was so precious that he couldn't let her alone he ripped her from her home and....wait what am I telling you this for you're my enemy. Oh, wait no not god I have to realize I'm trying to help look Remember Dietrich?" He was cursing himself for old habits. Ayama was so lost she was supposed to kill this man why was Member helping her member never went against master. She grabbed hold of her head and started screaming. Tres had a gun to Member's head not knowing anything more than that he was an enemy, "enemy spotted." Ion went to Ayala to comfort her but was scratched suddenly by and outburst. Her eyes were A deadly purple and her hair broke free from her bands. She screamed again she didn't know what was happening, "Member, Abel what is this, geeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah. ((yea, still don't remember. Good guy or bad?)) Feeling hands on her arms and a voice in her ear caused Ester to scream and jump startled, the book flying from her hands. She fell to the floor, scooting away until she saw who it was. She quickly covered herself modestly. "What on earth are you doing here?!" She barked with a glare. ((bad))"I'm so sad that my lovely Queen doesn't remember me, Oh how sad. Don't you remember the night I betrayed you to that duke back in your hometown? Ester's eyes narrowed at him. "You are sadly mistaken, Dietrich. I remember every last bit." She quickly got to her feet. "I demand you leave. NOW!" she ordered, trying to look as regal as possible. Dietrich laughed, "I think you are mistaken my love you can't get away from the puppet master," her arms suddenly flung apart," Now I don't think you will be getting away from me, this time." Ester gasped and winced as her arms were pulled away from her against her will. She tried to look strong though, she was a queen now, she couldn't show weakness. "What makes you so sure? Hm, Dietrich? GUARDS!!" she screamed, listening carefully for the heavy footfalls to come to her rescue. "He I don't think that will work you see I have a knew pet he is quite the fighter. oh, but you would think he looks like that little robot of your precious labels, he will not let them enter this room, you see if I fail at this Cain will let his sister have her way with me and that means I die I don't want that. because I never got to play with you....heh, heh_""Enough boy, Now lady Ester why don't you accompany me and your precious able will come save you. I hope my little pet doesn't kill him." Cain stepped out from the shadows and played with matrices hair, while smiling at ester.((that comes from the manga when he is about to eat him I think that he would have played with Dietrich.))((we need to wait for SAI to continue sorry.)) ((K, I'll just do something short))Ester's eyes grew wide, and her body lost all will to move as Cain appeared. Her legs trembled beneath her, almost not able to hold her up as she stared at the identical face to Father Abel's. She paled even lighter than she already was and couldn't get a single word or sound out of her mouth. Oh lord...what am I in to now? (Dietrich was in the first manga, he set up the attack on Esther's foster mother the Bishop. He's a bit of sadist. He is like to inflict pain mental and physical on the person he is obsessing about at the time right now it's Esther)Abel blinks as a vague memory surfaces of a girl on the station. Furthermore, he frowns at the mention of Dietrich's name, "What are you talking about? Dietrich is still alive?" Then he is distracted as the girl reacts to Ion. Member noticed the spike in Ayala's voice, "Ayala, stop breath deep." He panicked and ran to be able, "Father Night road is there a way to keep her from becoming rustic she never has because Cain would stop her but I never knew what he did." No one knew what she would become because she was already a vampire. Ion backed away since it was him who was causing the girl to react he thought. Tree wasn't standing back from member he was moving closer till the gun was on his forehead. "Please rein put request." ((ok, so I'm going to be reading the manga in between posts lol)) ((that's fine it would be good if you would pick up another character who needs to be played to seeing as ester is probably going to be the Dame in distress. Twitches I wasn't going to let anyone be her then I decided maybe I can do something with that. oh, well my bad.)) Cain walked over to the squirming ester. "How can he like such a fragile being, eh." He slashed his claw across her face, "Oops I was gonna wait to torcher you or let my pet do it, Hee wouldn't you like to know how Abel used to stare at her with me. Ha ha hahaha." He loved to watch jealousy appear on a woman because they just tortured themselves with it ((K... I really like Attaché, but someone asked for that role already, even though they haven't posted yet. Who do you need?)) Esther gasped in pain as Cain scratched her cheek. She could feel the warm blood oozing onto her cool skin. She slowly turned to face Cain, though not with jealousy as he so hoped, but with slight confusion and curiosity. "Stare at whom?" she asked, finally able to get a sound past her lips. ((I don't really know who I need. Maybe sword dancer could be near ester or something.))[/COLOR] ((Who?)) Him he is huge ((I don't know anything about him.:sweat: I'll do my research...)) ((ok)) ((what episode/chapter does he come in at?)) act 22 the very center of the blue storm ((So he's kinda like an unlucky oddball?)) ((yeah he does have a better story in the anime and the novels though.....there you go that is huge Quote: Huge de Watteau Voiced by: Shiny Citadel (Japanese), John Burglar (English) Born in 3032 AD in Antwerp of the Four City States Alliance, Huge is the sole survivor of the Watteau family, a paramilitary clan whose clansmen kept the position of Chief Inspector for the Four-City Alliance. Huge is driven by the desire to avenge his clan after the large scale attack on their home by vampires.[22] The only survivor of his family's murder aside from himself, is his sister Anais (or Ana), but she is missing and presumed to have been taken away by the murderers. Despite his position in the AX, Huge will often defy orders and search for his little sister as well as his family's murderer. With his independent nature, he frequently leaves AX at a whim to track down vampires. Huge, whose code name is Sword Dancer, wields a blade-staff with both a Katina and a Takanashi and has artificial arms that enhance his speed and strength, enabling him to easily match the average vampire in a fight. His analytical skills are far beyond that of the average human, allowing him to kill a vampire without wasting a single movement.[22] On one of his earlier missions in the series, he was sent to investigate the murders of several clergy members by a vampire. After a brief conflict, he killed a vampire who was trying to capture the sole survivor, a nun named Sister Agnes. While resting at the church, Huge and Agnes are captured by the servants of the area's leading vampire, Count Karl van der Very. The vampire plans to execute him, chaining the priest in a pit and forcing him to fight a Werewolf (note the werewolf makes no appearance in the novels). In the anime, Huge appears to be losing until Sister Agnes retrieves his weapon and returns it to him. In the novel he doesn't fight a werewolf, but Agnes returns his weapon to him just the same. Count Karl stabs her for her actions, badly wounding her, which enrages Huge. In the anime, after quickly slaughtering the werewolf, Huge kills Karl and the rest of the area's vampires who had been watching the fight.[25] Note, in the novels, however, a masked man (most likely Isaac) kills Karl. Father Huge later appears to deliver the Hakenkreuz Order's plans to destroy Rome and aided in the battle against Archbishop Alfonso d'Ester. He also turned up in Albion to help the Vatican's forces in destroying Isaac's ship.[16] His appearance during the Silent Noise arc, is only in the Anime. In the original novel, it is revealed that Huge's childhood friend, Jan van Jaylen, employed the vampires to destroy his clan. Jan came from a third class noble family and desired the job as Chief Inspector of the Four City Alliance, a position long held by the men of the Watteau Clan. Huge finds him, but spares his life, asking him to come to the church where they first met. Instead, Huge finds his former lover and Jan's current wife, Rachel. She attempts to dissuade him from killing her husband, but fails. Before leaving, Huge confronts Memling of the Count Four, the vampire who had framed Karl for the attack on the church in Amsterdam. Memling attempts to kill Jan, believing that he had intended for Huge to kill him at church, but is killed by Huge. Jan begs his old friend for forgiveness, but Huge refuses, vowing that he would return to carry out his vengeance after he has finished killing the remaining two Counts, GIE and Tarsus. [22] ((Yea I read that already, but it didn't tell me about the personality of the character, which is what I needed.)) Hugue was strolling past the castle, head down, minding his own business...until a feeling of evil hit him. He stopped, or rather froze as he concentrated on listening and finding out where it was coming from. A familiar voice soon floated down to his ears and he looked up, his blond hair hiding one of his emerald green eyes. "Lady Esther?" He knew something wasn't right. He quickly took out his sword, detached it, and using the spear attachment, flung it onto the castle wall. Furthermore, he then jumped up and used it to propel him to Esther's Balcony. There his eyes widened at the scene, and he burst in the room, raising his sword against the one who hurt Esther. ((I need to wait awhile for certain things to happen at the café before I continue sorry I also don't feel well)) (I asked for Asia and I really want to be her, I am only playing Abel because we need him to play I hope someone comes along who wants to take him. Huge is a very melancholy and bitter man the woman he loved dumped him for Jan then his family was slaughtered) Abel'ES eyes jerk away for the girl and back to Member "A Brunswick? That's impossible! How can she be one!? Brunswick's are constructs the technology to create them has been lost!" "I don't know apparently she was made not long after you guys were, What do you want, Cain just pulled her out of nowhere after your battle. Now help her, I don't understand the freaking causing thing." He didn't need a mess to clean up. Ayama slowly walked over to Abel clothing her side trying to hold her self together. She took two steps and fell down. She was laughing and crying at the same time. A lot of other people were starting to stare, Tree couldn't let this happen so he turned and grabbed the small frame of Ayala around the waist and headed off in the direction of the iron maiden II, "We must move the danger away from the civilians." Ion looked at the human and causing, "She is still a person you know Abel I'm sure you don't want her to hurt anyone or her self, and I think I want to go see Ashe. I don't think I will be able to help." he sighed and walked off.((if you really want to be Ashe she could come in here to if you want her to. I really don't care.)) (Asia is with Seth at the moment, since I'm doing Abel at the moment she can come in a bit later) Abel looks over at Ion "You have to get as far away as you can from her." Abel takes off after Tree. "Wait!! Can take her someplace better leave her to me. Take care of Count Member he's just as dangerous." Tree handed over the girl and returned his attentions to on member who took the momentary confusion to get some sort of electrical device and put it on tree's wires. Which caused him to short cur cit(SP)." I'm trying to tell you I want to help Dietrich and Cain have gone to kidnap ester." He was not acting like himself any more he really didn't want to see the world as Cain wanted it. ((yeah I changed him up a little.)) Ion ran as fast as he could to get to Seth and Ashe. (Ok I guess I'm not so clear about the location. We are in the Vatican right? That's in Rome in Italy. Seth and Asia are in Constantinople which on the other side of Greece on the Black Sea like 500 or 600 miles away and Ester is in Albion which is what we know as England, also how come Ion is out in the sunlight? He can't do that, he's a Methuselah.) Abel takes charge of Ayala and leads her towards a less crowded area near the ruins of the old Colosseum. ((Antique gel.........that is how ion is out in the sun also Kat is stupid and forgot, now I am sorry for being stupid, Ion is going to go to were the cardinal was, it wasn't originally going to take place in the Vatican because Abel is no longer a priest from what I understand. But this is all well and good with me. I am having thought process issues)) (Actually I think he is just on a sabbatical.) ((ok that works for me) Dietrich looked at the newcomer and scoffed, "who are you? The pretty boy brigade or something," He also wanted to know how he got past Torture. Cain looked at him then back to Ester flies weren't going to stop him from getting what he wanted. Either me or the girl has to end him. "Lady Ester it would be in your best interest to come with me." Esther's heart jumped as she heard her balcony window-doors slam open. Not another. But when she saw who it was her heart left for joy and small smile appeared on her lips. "Father Huge!!" She then turned back to Cain and her smile faltered. Huge might not be able to stop him...the only one she saw could hold a fight with him was Abel... Hugue's eyes quickly scanned the situation and stood in a fighting position. "AX field operative, Huge de Watteau. Code name, Sword dancer. In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit... You are under arrest for the assault and attempted kidnapping of Queen Esther." His eyes turned to Esther and glinted before he moved his sword so fast, that the only felt the wind as Esther fell to her knees, her arms free from Dietrich's strings. As Esther fell, she wrapped her arms around herself, taking the edge of her sleeve and quickly trying to wipe the blood from her cheek. Why was she always the one needing to be rescued? She looked up at Father Huge, fearing for his life. ((Hey, later, do you think I could be Leon "Dandelion"?)) ((that ok with me, Try not to double post in the future it hurts your gold intake))Cain grunted at huge, "Why do you Vatican men keep appearing in my life, the only one I want is Abel." Deitrich ran to the door and opened it, in came a tall man and Dietrich slammed the door then pointed at Huge, "get rid of that,""Right away sir," The mechanical voice responded. He jumped and pulled two long swords from his sides aiming for Huge. ((Ok sorry:sweat:))Huge quickly used his own sword to block the robot's. Crud. He thought to himself, another two sword user... His memories briefly flashed back to his battle with the captain of the blue stone... He then broke away and swung back. Esther watched the fight in horror, she knew the new guy's moves were that of Father Tree's.... Father Huge didn't have a chance... She tried to gather enough of herself to speak again. Abel pulls the girl with him till he finds a park and then once he is certain there are no civilians in danger he grabs the girl's arms and pulls her to face him staring not her eyes, "You have to concentrate. Your will power can control your nanites. If you can't stop the process at least control the progress. Verbalize the order and concentrate, tell the nanites only a partial percentage." She winced and then started to concentrate, "what do i.*breath*.say Abel!" She was trying really hard she didn't know what was happening but having able tell her what to do real helped. Kemfer cursed himself, he had followed the girl and able to the park area where she was struggling, to take control. He hoped that The other priest wouldn't regenerate. Ion was running through the halls of the cathedral looking for Cardinal Fossa.edit:"Dietrich you are only semi useless I guess, now get a hold of ester again and where are out of here," Cain whispered to Dietrich who was already walking over to ester to take hold of her. The mechanical movements were very smooth yet still had the look of a machine, he twisted away from Huge's sword/spear, "state your name and position Priest, I am Daniel Alexandros XIII." Esther looked up at Dietrich as he moved towards her with wide eyes of fear and she scooted back. Her back hit her dresser and she almost reached for the small gun strapped underneath it but...she remembered the first time she had pulled a gun in his presence... She had ended up shooting Abel multiple times. Her eyes moved to Father Huge, she couldn't do that again... Huge's eyes narrowed. "For a robot, your hearing isn't too good, I've already said this. I am AX field operative, Huge de Watteau. Code name, Sword dancer." He swung again, aiming for vital spots, trying to at least weaken him. "I'm sorry I was distracted in the other room, Huge, I wasn't listening to your words." He drugs his swords along the ground approaching Huge at a high speed, leaning close to the ground. When he was close enough to slice some part of huge, he swung the swords around to hit Huge. Deitrich wrapped his arms tightly around ester, "I really do love you, Ester. I hope one day you will forgive me for this." He Lifted her up then walked over to the balcony. Were Cain met them wings spread he grabbed them up and flew off to his ship leaving Daniel to his own devices. "IF YOU LOVED ME YOU WOULDN'T BE DOING SUCH MONSTROUS THINGS!!!" Esther yelled at Dietrich as she struggled to get out of his grip. But as Cain took off with them, she shrieked and clung onto him, shivering from the cold wind as it went straight threw her thin dress. She looked back at the battle. "HUGE! FIND ABEL!!" She cried before they were out of earshot. Why was she the one always being kidnapped... Hugue dodged Daniel's attack, but quickly turned towards Esther as they flew off and she cried an order. He winced's as Daniel's sword clipped his arm. He turned his attention back to the robot. "Looks like we'll have to cut this short..." Abel looked into her eyes."you have to command them with your Brunswick number then say 'Loading. Limitation at the percentage you want.' The nanites will reply with the word 'Acknowledged.'" She nodded, "Nanomachine Causing 05 limited 60%.....acknowledged." Her eyes turned purple, and her hair went from down to up in a tight wrapped top knot. She cocked her head to the side and had a confused look on her face, "What do I do now," she was in control enough to know that she looked quite simple, though her fingernails were like claws and her eyes like amethyst. ((I went with the novel way of going causing, because when they say limited 80% in the anime able is stronger were as in the novel the higher the number the more limited in power he is which makes more sense, When he first goes 80% in the anime he goes 8% in the novel)) Member was floored by how she looked now, "Whey... I wasn't expecting that." was all he said as he stood in the opening. Deitrich smiled at ester, "But these are my orders," He kissed her while she struggled. They were now on Cains ship and ester was being watched by Dietrich. Cain appeared in his usual dress (nothing) he grabbed Dietrich by his hair, "Will you stop flirting and put her away," he growled"yeahhhhhhhhhhh, not that," Dietrich was struggling to get out of Cains grasp. As Cain threatened to bite him. "O'm on it, i will take her away now." When Cain put him down Cain disappeared and Dietrich almost fell down shaking, but he remembered he had to get rid of ester, "come one little lady." ((Air ship or Water?)) Esther angrily wiped away the kiss and glared at Dietrich. She was bout to say 'You don't have to follow them' but then Cain grabbed Dietrich. Her face went bright red, almost blending into her hair and she turned away. Once they were alone, Esther spoke in quite a voice. "Why Dietrich? Why do you choose to work for someone like him? Why did you choose to betray your own family?" The questions she had waited years to ask him, now was her chance. "You don't deserve to know that little lady now come on before he fulfill that promise he just made to me." He shuddered again. Ok, he was really starting to piss her off. "NO!" Esther barked as she yanked her arm from him. "Why don't I deserve an explanation hm? We've known each other for YEARS!! Dietrich...you know me." now her voice shook with hurt as she looked at him with pain filled eyes. "Stop it Ester, why do you want to know I just chose this ok I just did, now please before he comes back," He was pleading with her now.((would you be mad if I just made something up I really don't know why Dietrich is in the Rosencrantz do you?) ((Nope, not at all. The only thing I got was that he loved toying with 'humans'. And you still haven't answered my question))Esther blinked in slight surprise, he...he was absolutely terrified of his boss... Slowly, her face hardened. "So that's it?" her voice quivered with anger and tears. "You just Chose to be a murderer? Just chose to harm those you once cared for? You chose to manipulate good people to do your bidding? Chose to work for a man that absolutely terrifies you and would possibly kill you if you had become of no longer any use to him?!" With that, she spun on her heel, not wanting to even look at him anymore. "I truly pity you Dietrich...may the lord have mercy on your soul..." Tears fell down her cheeks as she held herself tightly. ((sorry airship.)) Deitrich didn't want to explain his mental illness to a nun that wanted him dead, "Ester please just follow me to the room we prepared for you. You won't want to go anywhere because we are thousands of feet in the air right now." He was trying to calm down when Daniel appeared in front of him." Master Dietrich, what would you like me to do with the queen." Nothing I want you to go back to my room and stay there" He also needed to make sure she got into that dress that was sitting in her room so she wasn't in her slip of a dress anymore. ((Ooh, what kind of Dress? ^.^)) Esther somberly nodded and followed, her head down so that her bangs covered her eyes as she held her arms so hard her knuckles were white. "Thank you ester," they came to a room with a blood-red door, "here is where you will be staying," after seeing the glumness of his own room he really wished he could have the room ester was about to be in. with its canopy bed and well furnished room it was like that Empresses Room. He sighed, Great now i'm depressed, "If you would please put on this dress." He was blushing, and looked almost sick with depression. Esther looked up with a glare, but once her eyes landed on the dress, they went wide. It was absolutely gorgeous! She delicately took the dress into her own hands, admiring the handiwork. She then lifted her head and glared at Dietrich again. "If you would please step out so I can change?" She gestured to the door. "Of course sorry." He ran out of the room but stood with his back to the door when he noticed Daniel was standing with him." Master you know she is just going to try and jump""right, Ester please stay here we don't plan to hurt you. "I WASN'T GOING TO JUMP!! I'M NOT THAT DUMB!!" Esther yelled at them. "Honestly..." she grumbled as she started changing. She was slightly confused, why would they spend on an elaborate dress...for a hostage? She cleaned the blood off her cheek so it wouldn't stain the gown and began to put it on. "It's a lot of ruffles..." she blushed. She looked at herself in the mirror, it looked good though... "Ok... I'm done..." Esther called as she placed her hands on her bare shoulders, covering herself modestly. Dietrich mumbled, "You look good, ester," then he straightened up, "I figured you would want something to wear, I must go for a moment I shall return for now Daniel will be staying with you." he bowed out and left Daniel standing inside the door. Esther nodded and looked to the robot uneasily, "You didn't kill Father Huge did you?" she asked worriedly. She'd never forgive herself if he did... "negative i merely stopped him from stopping the operation." Esther sighed in relief. "Thank god..." Hugue and Daniel had met a mutual agreement, and he had jumped out the balcony, running to the nearest telephone to call the Vatican. "Contact Abel immediately! It's an international emergency!" He tried to get it through the assistant's skull. The receptionist took the message to Cardinal Fossa and waited for instructions. Dietrich returned to the room with a plate of food, "I didn't bring this to you ok." Esther raised an eyebrow in slight confusion of his words then closed her eyes with a sigh. "There's no need, I'm not hungry..." She went and sat on the bed. (I was using the anime/manga percentages too, so 100% is his full strength)Abel sighs in relief that she hadn't gone berserker. "You just need to wait for them to lose their energy, then you will revert to normal." ((I meant I was using the novel style so 100% is no power, instead of being at 0% all the time she is at 100% all the time.)) The purple causing nodded and sat down breathing deeply and trying to meditate. Kemfer walked out of the shadows, "she will be ok now right."tree stood up and shook of the shock then headed in the direction that able had gone earlier. The receptionist ran in on Ion and Caterina talking about the current situation and yelled about needing able. Caterina nodded and handed a bottle of anti UV gel to Ion and told him to go. (I think that was a mistranslation, because vanities at 100% has to mean at full power.) Abel smiled at the girl. "I am glad you are in control now. You act as if you know me I am sorry I don't remember. I had..., and accident a while back, and I have not yet regained some of my memories." "Thank you, Abel I was told you and Cain would watch me as I went through the empire before you came to earth and caused a lot of problems. Also, I remember you untiring me from the wall in masters room." Her hair returned to it original place and her eyes and claws were normal to. She turned and smiled at Member."Thank you, Father Abel Night road," He bowed to the older causing.((ok then maybe those are by the original author to I think anyway. All the rest was a remake by other artists.)) "I wish I could remember you." says Abel, he shakes his head sadly, then looks over at Member. "So are saying you have switched sides?" "I wish you did to. I'm sorry you don't remember. Are there other things you forgot." She was curious now." I'm trying Father I am. Things happened since your fight with him, and now he is starting to order Ayala around. She was supposed to attack you today, but the little Vampire distracted her. Oh, and He should be returning soon.' He moved over to Ayala and Patted her on the head receiving a nuzzled in return. Ion Ran out the door now that he had anti UV gel on him. Tree Appeared in the grove and saw Member sitting with Abel peacefully, "Father Abel Night road please report the situation." Abel looks at Tree, "It seems we have a truce at the moment. Please intercept Ion before he GES here. Miss Adam may not have complete control of herself as yet. It might be best if he kept his distance for the time being." Abel looks over at the girl. "I do not recall the battle that caused my memory loss. As well as some very early events. I really need to go see my sister, she will be able to fill in many of the blanks." "Sister?" she didn't know there were others i goes if she was 5 there had to be 1-4 to. "Can I go?" She had no interest in fighting this man. He was nothing like master had said and Member seemed to be switching sides, and she didn't want to have to take that back to him, who knows what Cain would do. "Abel or Father Night road, why does Cain hate you?" Her train of thought just kept changing on her." Possitive." He ran off to find ion." Father tree, we have to tell Abel something." Ion was coming up fast of the Mechanical man." Affermative, you are to relay the message to me since miss Ayala isn't in complete control yet." Tree stood waiting for the message"Her Majesty has been kidnapped. Abel is to rescue her at all costs." Ion realized what tree had said about Ayala, He was curious but decided to wait for a better time. Kemfer sealed down next to her and let her wrap her arms around him. "Abel I can tell you what happened Cain has taken the Queen to his ship in the sky." Deitrich looked to Daniel then back at the "Queen, are you sure there is nothing you need now. I can get you anything." He didn't want her uncomfortable for some reason. Esther lifted her legs and pulled them into her, hugging her knees. She shook her head. "No, I am fine. I'll just sit here and be the Damsel in Distress all over again and wait for the Vatican to rescue me...as usual." she spat. She wasn't necessarily mad at Dietrich or Cain, or the Vatican. She was mad at herself for being such a burden. That was just about all she ever was. Esther sighed and buried her head in her dress. Leon listened to the report that was coming in from his earpiece, he chewed on his cigarette in a pondering motion. "So? Señorita Esther has been kidnapped..." He then blushed and gushed for a moment "Lt;3 I guess others can't resist her cuteness!Lt;3" He then returned to normal and smirked, revving his engine. "Abel better find her, she still owes me that date." And he took off, searching for Abel. Dietrich bowed and left a bell on the dresser, "here if you need me." He left to go check on Cain. Abel was considered Adam's request, "I would like to take you. I am sure Seth would like to meet you, but I am going to the empire, and you do not have enough control to be exposed to so many Methuselah." Her eyes went wide, "but I really want to meet more Causing." Kemfer held back a chuckle he found that look resistible. Tres appeared in the area again,"father Abel night road, Her Majesty the Queen former Sister Ester Blanchet has been kidnapped by Rozencruiz." ((Hey guys, I won't be able to post for about a week. They're closing the school due to Flu and I get minimal internet at home. ) ((oh that ok we may not wait but if we get to Ester we shall OK)) ((cool with me)) (do you just want to wait till she can post again?) Abel frowns. "It seems we have more pressing matters to attend to." He looks at Tree. "So Lady Katerina wants us to go to Albion?" ((yeah I think that would be good.)) (ok) ((back)) "Positive." was all Tree responded. Katel frowned, "That is why he wanted me to come here."" Yes little one Cain wanted to distract you while he attacked Lady Ester. That man is frightening." Member pulled the little Causing to him. ((they are both standing she is just closer to him now.)) Cain was in his favorite spot glaring at the beings he hated so much. And chuckling thinking of how awesome it would be to kill them all." Sorry about that" He scratched his head Dietrich wasn't sure what to do so he started to leave. Abel nods, "Alright then, I don't suppose our lady Bishop happened to mention how we are to get there?" "Negative my advice would be to report to her lady Cardinal medially to find the best possible way."" You are to meet me at the airport if you would like you may bring your knew friends." Sister Kate said to them threw the earpieces. Abel nods "I understand Sister Kate." He looks at the girl and Member. "We are to go to the airport for our transport to Albion. Please follow me." He looks at Tree, "Go find Ion and bring him to meet us at the ship." "Affirmative." Tree walks off to find Ion. Ayama spun away from Member to Able and wrapped around his arm, "Ok Abel though I am apparently your little sis, suitor.... Onii-chan." She giggled at her silliness. Kemfer nodded, "Ok Father Abel left the way. Abel nods and starts walking towards the Airport. Taking quick strides with his long legs. "Hope you don't mind walking my funds are a bit short right now."MEANWHILE Asia is waiting for an interview with the Empress. Seth had sent for her to come and receive a new assignment. She paces in the waiting room wondering where her Empress will be sending her next. Quote: Originally Posted by Saiyana2 Abel nods and starts walking towards the Airport. Taking quick strides with his long legs. "I hope you don't mind walking my funds are a bit short right now." ((Ha ha!! Aren't they always?! ^.^)) (yup that's why I thought I'd throw it in there, Abel is always broke and Hungary) Member laughed, "Should we mind.'' HE was feeling a bit awkward since he had tried to kill able a few times. It felt strange to be on the same side. Ayama was oblivious to it all, she was happy to be with a less sadistic Causing. Tres had found Ion and told him to come along. Ion was still uneasy about the antique gel lasting so he carried a large umbrella with him now. The two ran along on their way to the airport to catch up to the others. (I was kind of hopping Member would insist on getting taxi and paying for it but oh well. Abel led the way to the Vatican's airport. Where Sister Kate was waiting in the ship. Asta was ushered into the Emperor's presence. Seth smiled at her. "I have a request for you. I would like you to go to Albion and be our ambassador to Queen Esther's court. I feel since you and the Queen are good friends you would be best suited to work well with the Albion terrains. " Seth dimpled at Asia. ((oh, sorry. He is a little confused right now so he is just going with the flow.)) (OCC is this dead?) ((I was waiting on CHY so maybe it is. Raw so mad.)) {{I’M WAITING ON YOU ALL!! I HAVE NOTHING TO DO!! ESTHER'S TRAPPED AND I HAVE NO CLUE WHAT TO DO TO LEON AND HUGE!!}} Ayala sat in the ship next to member waiting on orders from able and Tree and the others, she was gripping tight to Member since she was struggling to control herself around Ion. Kemfer looked at the little boy (because he looks like one) "Hey there Abel where can she go to get away from him for now. Or let her, ....you know." Tres was watching the clouds roll by under the ship and at the approaching empire. Ion was unsure what member was talking about so he looked at able. Sister Kate was watching patiently, "We are almost to our destination. Please get ready to dock." Deitrich thought it was a good time to talk to his captive. He knocked on her door and Daniel opened it, "Hi Daniel how's the captive?"" Fine sir, I shall wait outside." Deitrich stood in the doorway, "Soon How are you feeling do you need anything or a monster to talk to?" He was trying. Abel k looked at the girl struggling to control herself. "Just a little bit longer, and we can let Ion and Tree go ahead of us. You need to learn to control yourself, my child. It gets easier each time". She nodded, "ok Abel I trust you." Kemfer just petted her head, "It's ok little one." Kate spoke, "We are landing now, get ready." Abel offers the young girl his hand smiling at her reassuringly squeezing her hand. Asta bows and leave the Empress's presence, then smiles slightly there is a slight nearly imperceptible skip in her step. She was going to see her towards once more. The ship lands and everyone gets offender was glared at by some of the vampires, "it seems they remember me," He stood by Ayala, who's eyes were closed, and she was breathing deeply working through the smells. Ion's excited to be back home, and he jumps up in his empire clothes. Abel continued to hold her hand. "Just breathe through it, you control the nanites they do not control you." she swallowed and nodded. "Yeasts!" Member had her other side, "Listen to lanky." He said slyly Kate bid them to have fun and flew off." By the way ......why is the little one......in.....such clothes......" It seemed a bit revealing for a young vampire even if she knew nothing of society." Let's go father Abel and others." Tress aid holding the angry ion back. Abel nods at Tree. "We're coming." He smiles at her, "The Methuselah are not affected by the weather for most of them clothing is merely adornment." "Hee he oh, thanks Abel-samey." She didn't know what honorific to UE she just wanted to use one. Kemfer put his arm fully around her, "Let's get going little one."" Ok" they headed off after tree and Ion. Abel walked beside Amaya and Member. Glancing at her from time to time trying to remember her. She pulled a ribbon from her waistband and tied her hair more properly now. "There how's that Issac?" ((is that right for Members first name)"Its fine now let's get to the castle." He pushed her along. Like she had been when she was younger. ((well before she was a rustic, it was her brother.)) (it's two AA's not two SS's) Abel smiles as they head for the Albion palace. Asta arrives at the dock to start her trip to the western kingdom as ordered by her Empress. ((thanks and Asia's going the wrong direction isn't she?)) Ayama followed towing Isaac and giggling. Tres had set down the angry vampire and fell back, "This is unknown territory to me. I have never been to the Empire, ((I don't think he has anyway.)) I Shall follow your lead, Father Abel." Ion was walking regal trying to regain his composure after all he was a Lord. Ayama wanted to run and skip, but every time she thought of it her concentration went down. So she just walked focusing on the nanites and holding onto able and Isaac. (ok I thought they had been sent to Albion to rescue Esther, that's why Abel changed his mind about letting Amaya come along) ((I got confused with placements ok now then there was no reason for Ion to be happy sorry my bad will fix in this post For some reason I thought they went to The empire to see Seth. My brain doesn't work that is why I made the RP but don't enforce a leader.)) Tres finally stopped, "Father Abel my sensors just indicated we aren't in the empire but in Albanian stopped, "Yeah that would be about right. Oops, lost in my own mind again." Ayama giggled at the silliness, "oops our bad." Abel arches an eyebrow, "Well considering that's where Lady Caterina ordered us to go I think it's where we are supposed to be." "Affirmative," Tress aid as they neared the castle.((sorry I will fix this tomorrow I'm too sleepy now.)) (ok well I may only post once or twice this weekend I have a 2-day Ren Free starting on Saturday and Sunday, set-up is tomorrow, and tear down is after the free ends Sunday night) {{Sorry I haven't been on in a while. I had a massive wave of homework and forgot about this place ^.^;}}Esther hadn't heard Dietrich when he entered her 'room', for she had curled up on the bed and fallen asleep. The excitement and the rise in her blood pressure at Dietrich had worn her out. Her eyebrows furrowed in her sleep and she buried her head even more. "Die...rich...MNG..." Even in her dreams he haunted and tortured her, she hadn't thought about him in years and with the sudden reappearance, all the memories had been dug up. The engine of a motorcycle roared towards Abel and the crew. Leon charged at them on his bike, but just to scare them, he would never hurt his amigos. At the last moment, he slammed on his brakes and turned so he stopped perpendicular to them and engulf Abel and Tree in a cloud of dirt and smoke. "HOLA! Abel! Tree! Que pass?" He then looked over his sunglasses to see the young girl hanging on to the other guy in their group. He got off his bike and walked over, bending at the waist so that he was her height. "Well hello there Nina!! Are you just a cutie...a good competition with Ms. Esther I'd say..." He beamed a kind smile at her, lowering his shades a bit. Ayama growled at the tall hairy man, "Who the hell are you?" Isaac grabbed her and pulled her back whispering in her ear, "Play nice my pet."" Father Leon Garcia,""Ester are you ok?" He was pacing the room. Daneil was just standing guard. Leon chuckled and stood up, putting his hands up defensibly. "Whoa there Nina, I'm a priest, just like these two nimrods." he joked as her thumbed towards Abel and Tree. He took out his cigarette and thanked the ashes off. "So Nina, what's your name? And how'd you end up in this bunch?" Upon hearing her name, Esther's eyes began to slowly open. "Ming?" She looked around until she saw Dietrich. "Oh. It's you" she grumbled before laying back down. She found herself still very exhausted and didn't feel up to his mind tricks right now. Ayala ran and hid behind Member, "I like Isaac's better."((forgot Isaac smoked.)) Isaac pulled out a CIG and lit it. "So you must be lion or whatever, I see why they dubbed you that." He laughed." Like a hairy lion Isaac?" She smiled innocently at her protector. Ion stood open-mouthed, "WHAT! I heard about you from her highness. Stay away from her pervert!" Deitrich smiled a sweet smile, "Yes Ester love it is I your tormentor. Hope that doesn't bother you too much." Leon sighed as she ran and hid from him without giving him any information. Maybe he had come on too strong. He smiled at Member, a metal understanding one. Upon the little imp's outburst, Leon turned and glared at him, obviously pissed. "I am not a pervert, you little punk. I have a daughter, thank you very much. She just so happens to seem the same age as her." Esther pulled the sheets over her head. "Go away..." She grumbled sleepily. Why couldn't he take a hint? Why must he aggravate her in a time period where she would be too easy to aggravate? "Fine" was all he said, and he sat down at the desk to think." Her name is Ayala, and she doesn't care for, her well, loud people I guess." Isaac didn't know exactly why she didn't like Leon and wasn't about to explore it. Cause if it was his hair Member had much more. He winced as a tug pulled his hair. "What......oh" She was again braiding a piece. "Why do you do that little one."" Cause no one will do it for me so I try to do it for them look what I did to be able while you were distracted." She was gone she didn't care anymore. Leon had lost her interest. Abel's hair looks like a person took an electric eel to it, or he just woke up." Sorry able when she is on a roll she doesn't, ow stop that already." He pulled his hair out of his hand and ran his fingers through it till it was free of knots. "Ok come here." She stood in front of him, "You know why I never do this, it's because it's embarrassing and you to short," HE was now kneeling on the ground to finish her braid. Meanwhile, Ion was glaring at Leon, "fine, but you still make it seem like you are making advances on young girls." Leon chuckled as he watched Ayala. She was too cute. He turned back to the shrimp. "They're not advances" he then blushed brightly with a big smile, "young girls are just so cute and adorable and I just want to hug'em and squeeze'em and protect them." He then laughed loudly. He was a sucker for kids. Esther fell back asleep and later awoke again, this time with more energy. She yawned, sat up and stretched. She then noticed Dietrich thinking at the desk. "What do you want, Dietrich?" She grumbled as she rubbed her eyes then scratched her scalp, adjusting her hair. Ayala giggled and played with her braid, and hugged Isaac, "Thank you, Isaac."" Yeah yeah whatever, so what exactly happened here?" He hugged her back and then stood looking over to Leon." Really but that is still kinda creepy you know." ion added. Leon shrugged, "Think what you want kid..." He then turned to Member, scratching the back of his scalp. "I'm honestly not to sure. I just heard the report, Her Majesty was taken from her room early this morning, an android holding back the guards. They only people who saw were the few on the street who all claim something different...and Huge who tried and stop them. Lord knows where he ran off to..."" Right here..." Huge said as he appeared right behind Leon"WAS!!" Leon jumped and took a defensive stance. Then he blinked and realized it was Huge. "Don't DO that..." he grumbled as he adjusted himself, slicking back his hair in an attempt to regain his 'coolness'." My apologies Leon, I went to do some research, match names to the faces I saw." His green eyes turned to Abel, "I'm pretty sure their names are Dietrich and Cain...but I could be wrong." He looked back at the others. "'Dietrich' used invisible strings to hold her highness hostage, but I freed her. Then they sicked their android on me....he's a skilled swordsman... Then the one supposedly being 'Cain' grew wings and grabbed 'Dietrich' WHO in turn grabbed Queen Esther, and they flew out the window while I was preoccupied..." He faces Able again with sad eyes, "She told me to find you..." (Sorry I was gone so long we had our Renaissance Free this weekend) Abel had been coughing, trying to clear his nose from the dust that Leon's bike had kicked up. He finally stopped coughing when Huge showed up. Abel's eyes narrowed when he heard that his brother had taken both Esther and Dietrich. "We have to find Queen Esther. If Cain has her she is in danger. He has no mercy." Cain sneezed he was just laying in his hot tub again, "hahaha Oh how fun it is when people are hating you."" I was thinking about your question earlier, but I can't remember what you asked," He didn't move. Ayama looked at huge staring, "Mister your hair is so pretty and your so tall and thin and ooooooooo!" Isaac flicked her ear, "No!" Was all he had to say, and she retreated to his side still looking at Huge." Father huge de Watteau, sword dancer, do you know the location." tress aid not that his perfect frock was perfect again. Ion didn't remember this one, "Who are you?" Esther tilted her head in confusion and thought as she tried to remember what question? Suddenly her eyes went wide and she snapped her fingers. "Oh! Why you're working for him?" maybe now she was going to get some answers. Huge chuckled, "It's alright..." and he went down on one knee, "You play with it if you want, I have a little sister, Anais, who does the same..." He then turned to Tree. "The location they took her too? No...just that they flew north. But she was taken from her own bedroom chamber." he smiled down on Ion, "Don't you remember? We fought on the Blue Some, with your help, the two of us took out the captain." (I don't remember Huge being that affable he was more brooding and melancholy and I think his sister is dead.) Abel heads for the palace. "We need to see the scene of the kidnapping maybe they left some sort of clue." {{*Shrug* in the book Abel talked about her like she was still alive... And he only appeared for one chapter, so I can't really tell how he is :sweat: maybe Ayala has that kind of sway over people...}} ((ok his sister is alive and the rest of his family is dead his sister married some ass and Huge went to kill him, and she tried to kill him because she was happy. And he is in a whole section of one of the books if you mean the manga yeah he was only in it little bit. Sorry. Oh, and they never did that, ever she isn't all that much younger than him, she is like a year younger.))"Yeah, why I work for him, it's..............because of............................well................ it's a mental condition, and he supports it I guess. I'm not a hundred percent sure." He just slumped over he really was afraid of his boss but the thought of someone suffering just, well sent chills down his spine.((Ok so I am horrible at playing the bad guys.)) Ayama giggled, and hid further behind Member, "Isaac told me not to." She had a hold of Isaacs jacket and was stretching it." Now now I'm not going to have access to my nice clothes so you need to stop stretching my coat." He turned around pried her fingers from his coat and then picked her up and held her like a father would hold a child, "there is that better." She nodded, turning red. "Also I agree with able, we need to go see things, I'm not sure how my previous master would have done things. Ion nodded hard, "We must know what happened to Her majesty.""affirmative" {{.... Maybe when they were younger lol}}Huge nodded to Ayala and stood up, looking at the others, "Alright, I'll lead the way." And he began to head to the castle. Leon nodded and put his CIG back in his mouth as he mounted his bike. "I'll meet you all there!" And with a rev of his engine, he took off. Esther studied Dietrich as he answered. Even he didn't seem satisfied with his answer. "Mental condition? Dietrich what kind of condition? We have doctors for that...." Maybe there still was a chance. Member carried Ayala knowing that would be what she wanted. Ayama made herself more comfy and ran her fingers through Isaacs hair. Ion followed. Tres was behind member holding one of his guns still not trusting. Abel put his hand on his gun and walked beside Member and Ayala cautiously. He was worried that Cain might return. His brother would know he would come to save his young friend. ((waiting on CHY now.)) Dietrich turned, "Doctors, as if I haven't tried," He said in a voice that sounded like a sigh. (just a heads-up I am going to be out of town for 3 days starting tomorrow, I am taking my laptop, but I don't know if I will be able to use it.) (OK is fine)) ((Sorry, I went home this weekend :sweat:))Sensing his tone of defeat, she got up and put her hand on his shoulder. "Well maybe I could help..." Soon they arrived at the enormous castle and Huge looked up to the balcony where Esther was captured. ((Absolutely no problem))((ok I'm gonna wait on Siena only because I'm feeling lost a bit tell me when you all get back, and I will for sure think of a way to continue this. I just have a huge headache today to owoooww)) Abel moved cautiously through the palace looking around carefully. ((ok Brian damage done))Member looked around and then sighed he didn't belong investigating, "wait a minute, There in the ship." He was outside looking up at the sky. There was nothing there, but it was somewhere he knew it. Ion was searching in esters room for something. There was a little of esters blood on the floor from a small cut the strings made but other than that, nothing. Tres was searching for were the guards had gone when a young lady-in-waiting told him they were mostly incapacitated in the infirmary and the others were guarding the treasures. Ayama was just lost, "What is every one doing?" She looked up at Member she couldn't remember seeing anything from before her days as a causing. "Isaac why do they keep looking around there's nothing there, and your right there up somewhere, with Master Cain." Tres had a gun to Ayala's head she started to Hyperventilate, "It's positive I should not have left you." Kemfer wanted to intervene without causing upset, "Father Tree she doesn't understand the situation, please back down I will correct the problem."" What's wrong Isaac, why does metal man want to hurt me?" She was afraid to move but reached for Members hand, and he grabbed it, but didn't pull back.((edit))"I don't know," He looked at her warily he was having difficulty not seeing her covered in blood and dying already. Huge had accompanied Ion, telling him what happened while he was in Esther's room earlier. Leon had gone around, asking the few servants and maids what happened. Esther knew it probably wasn't wise, but she let her guard down. "Come on Dietrich...you can tell me...just like the old days..." She looked at him with her big blue eyes filled with concern. "Can I really there were no old days to me, I watched you squirm around about, and laughed in my loneliness" He looked at her with eyes full of fear and sadness. Abel moved over and pushed down Tree's gun. "What do you think you are doing she hasn't hurt anyone Sometimes you are far TPO quick with your gun, Gunslinger." "Negative father night road, She called Cain Night lord master, therefore is the enemy." Ayama turned into Isaac, "I'm scared Isaac." He hid in his chest." Yes she did, but she doesn't know everything yet, she doesn't understand, She just knows that he has kept her alive all these years." He wasn't happy that his little girl was being hurt by the mechanical man. Ion listened to Huge well and cursed a few times. She is a confused young girl, and he was her teacher for a while. Calling him master was trained into her. A slave always calls their owner master, that doesn't mean they like the person that owns them. ((I'm going to go with labels talking to Tree))Tree lowered his gun but didn't move. Kemfer held Ayala close, "Aya please stop calling Cain master ok." She nodded shaking, she had a huge fear of guns, or Homophobia. She was seeing the person who stole her away holding the gun to her face and laughing as she froze. Saying something about how funny it was for a vampire to fear a gun. (he was talking to Tree, Gunslinger is Tree's code name in AX) Esther felt a pang in her heart at his hurt face and cupped his cheek lightly. After all these years, she still had feeling for him...but the whole Rose Cruz organization junk ruined it all... "Before that, back at the church with her Grace Video, Back in Ivan, back when you were my oilcan" she chuckled a little as tears started to form. ((sorry I know gunslinger is tree I wouldn't be a proper fan if I didn't, I meant you last post doesn't have quotations around anything or address who is speaking.)) He smiled menacingly, again not meaning to, "Yeah I was talking about those days, when you played at being the heroine (SP), if Father Night road hadn't come you wouldn't have survived that night. ((heroine))Esther gasped and stepped back a little with wide eyes. "Dietrich....you don't mean that..." But even she knew it was true. If it hadn't been for Abel...who knows what could have happened. She'd have died in Ivan. Dietrich looked up seeing that she knew it was true nodded, "now maybe you would have been able to survive, but you were against a Methuselah there is no way you made him feel better though" He was trying. (IOC try looking again it seemed pretty straight forward to me, Abel was interacting with Tree and I always use quotations for speech I am a published writer after all. I just don't bracket actions) Quote: Originally Posted by Saiyana2 She is a confused young girl, and he was her teacher for a while. Calling him master was trained into her. A slave always calls their owner master, that doesn't mean they like the person that owns them. ((this is the end of this ok that is what you posted I was confused cause there are no quotations is all I figured it out no problem. It doesn't matter these things happen.)) Tres was noticing Abel's silence and was confused. "Father night road you are silent is something wrong. Kemfer pulled Ayala close, "you are ok little one?" She nodded. "Yeah, Isaac, I'll be careful from now on. I realize what is going on now. Couldn't you have at least explained that Cain was evil or whatever and who is in the right and wrong I only returned to the world 3 weeks ago after who knows how many years." Abel nodded "I am trying to sense Cain's presence if I can catch his residue I might be able to follow a trail." He prowls the room concentrating. Tree stood near Member and Ayala. Kemfer watched Abel, "How are you going to do that?" Ion sat on Esters couch. "Hmm I wonder about that?"" He can sense Brother when he finds some sort of object or something that has to do with him. Am I right Abel?" Abel nods, "As cryonics we have an intense aura as well as a unique scent, and because he is my twin I can sometimes sense him when we are close." They all nodded and waited. Ayama cocked her head to one side, "Your twins?" Abel nodded, "Yes I thought you knew that we are nearly identical after all but Cain is the older twin by several minutes." Abel stops suddenly and turns looking out the window. "He's gone in that direction" ((gonna wait on CHY and I'm sleepy anywho and can't think)) Esther narrowed her eyes a little. "You're wrong....." She said in a quiet shaky voice. "You're wrong! I showed him hope and some compassion, and he sacrificed himself to save me! There is power in love, Dietrich don't you see that?!" Hugue and Leon watched, truly interested about Abel and his story. When he pointed out the direction, Huge thought to himself could have told you that.but remained silent for now they could track the villain easier. "Well what are we waiting for?! Humans! Let's go save Esther!" "Yes lets!" Ion was almost out the window when Ayala grabbed his shirt." That's not wise Mister, vamp.....re" she took a deep breath, "sorry still getting used to this." Kemfer separated them, "It's ok Ayala I think he is understanding," He turned is attention to Ion, "Dietrich told me about what happened with your monarch and Abel." He smiled sadly, "I may be a sadist, but that is really bad, I'm getting over it," He looked over to Ayala who was now looking at Abel fondly." Abel-tan can I call you on ii-chan?" She never had siblings and since Cain and Abel talked about each other as siblings.....she thought she would try." Sister Kate can you meet us again we are about to go skyward after another ship." Deitrich shock his head, "maybe, don't really know." Esther gave a frustrated sigh and rubbed her new pierce. She figured that this conversation was going nowhere..." Is there anything else you want to tell me? Or talk about?" Abel caught Ion's other arm, "Cain may be in that direction, but he used wings to fly. If you go out that window you'd make a big splat on the ground we are several flights up." He looks at Tree. We CNA't just go rushing off after him. My brother isn't a foll he'll be ready for us, we need a plan." "Abel we should plan on the Iron Maiden." Tress aid. Kemfer nodded, "I'm with able on that one." He had Ayala around the shoulders." Abel-tan your ignoring me!" She pouted she liked acting like a child it made her giggle inside." I'm sorry Ester, it's just complicated. I mean I never had anyone interested in how I felt before."" Deitrich." Cain roofed in Matrices ear. "Oh aren't we trying to be sneaky you want me to well you know in front of the lovely Queen ester." He Chuckled." Master Dietrich?" Daniel had come in. Deitrichs eyes were wide, and he shook his head at Cains question. But it was too late, he felt Cains teeth brush his neck skin, and he passed out." There that's my puppet for you passing out the moment I start to play." He chuckled again. Sitting on the chair that Dietrich was just in. "Now what do I do with his princess since my brother is so graciously coming after you."((just realized Dietrich may well be dead in the story....)) Abel turned to Mane and smiled "You can call me on ii-chan if you wish, but we have an important mission. I want you to promise to do something for me can you protect Member?" She shied back and cleared her throat nodding, "I'm sorry on ii-chan. I won't ever let anyone hurt Isaac." She put her hand on Memphis, She really didn't understand why everyone hated Cain so much." It's ok I am the magician after all." He said stroking her hair with his free hand. Abel smiled at her reassuringly, then turns to Tree and the others" Gunslinger is right we need to go back to the Iron Maiden and confer with the others. Cain is up to something I just can't figure out what." Ayala giggled, "Yay that's where the hologram lady is."" I heard that." came over all the fathers' airings(? ((I always thought that was strange.))" Affermative sister Kate is a Holographic woman." He said to Ayala still holding his gun in hand." Now don't anger her. She makes excellent tea." He said to Ayala. She nodded. Ion was getting any dancing back and forth. Esther jumped as Cain appeared, and her eyes also grew as she saw Dietrich's eyes widen. She gasped as he slumped, fearing the worst...but Cain quickly cleared that out for her. She watched him with wary eyes and took a step back. "That's Queen to you..." She snapped, feeling a little brave (is he still naked?) ((yeah only because he is when he wants to be))He glared at her, "You really are brave for a little human who can only shoot a gun. I could snap you inhale, but that would just make the situation worse wouldn't it." Esther felt her blood run cold as he glared at her and she shivered. She quickly looked away from him 1. Because he was naked, 2. Because just looking at him made her scared and uneasy. "What do you want from me?" She managed to ask. "Oh she had to ask, one I want my girl back and my lack, but that ain't going to be hard, oh, and you know the other thing." He smiled flexing his wings. Esther turned and looked at him confused at his first demand, not knowing who he was talking about. But she began to tremble at the second one. Her eyes were brought to his wings. "A-Abel...." she whispered in a shaky voice. "Yes my ever so changing brother." he stood up stepping on Dietrich, who coughed and started to get up, "Stay down." he went back flat Abel headed back to the ship thinking hard on the way. He suspected that Esther was merely bait to draw him in. He really didn't want his comrades following him into the trap he knew Cain was setting for him. Furthermore, he would have to find a way to get away from the others. Member caught up to able, "Father your not doing this without us right?" She sighed, "Please Abel, I need to go i want to see him again."" Abel night road I will stay behind with Ion Fortuna he shouldn't go. Otherwise, I care not who you take or don't" He gestured to the tied down vampire who was trying to get away. Esther took another step back as he stood up, but looked to his face. He truly was Abel's twin..." But Why?" Esther began, still not fully understanding. "Why must you torture your brother so? He's your own flesh and blood!" Cain just laughed loudly and left the room wiping tears form his eyes from laughing so hard. "Girl your funny."((don't forget Hughes and Leon.)) "I'M SERIOUS!" Esther hollered after him before crossing her arms and plopping herself on her bed. Of all the nerve... "Well without Gunslinger at your side, you'll need us." Leon encouraged, placing his hand on Abel's shoulder, giving him a confident smile. Hugue unsheathed his sword and examined the blade for flaws. He also wanted to help...and a rematch against that robot... Daniel grunted, "Miss may I suggest you don't anger Master Cain. Master Dietrich needs something." Deitrich twitched a few times, "Ester, I'm sorry." Esther's eyes grew wide. "Dietrich!" She had forgotten about him in her fury and quickly kneeled down beside him. "Are you ok? What are you sorry for?" "I'm ok I think" he said as he weaseled his way up, "I missed hearing you cry out for me," He thought for a moment, "Not that I staged this at all, it just happened, He likes to torture me, but if it were On Member, damn that man and his cigarettes," He said remembering the time Cain had Member almost put a cigarette to his eye. Tears came to her eyes, "Then why do you stay?! You could leave! Go to the Vatican! They'll protect you! I'll vouch for you! Dietrich, please...." Esther wanted to save him so bad that it hurt. Dietrich shook his head "they want me dead, Empress Validity is going to kill me to. I'm dead standing, I'm lucky Man Heir doesn't want me dead." He was back in the chair. Abel looked at his comrades. "We need to locate Cain's headquarters. That's most likely the place he will have Queen Esther sequestered." He turns to look at Member, "You wouldn't happen to know where that is, would you?" [color=red] Esther stood. "Then you could come to Albion and stay with me! Just like old times! Dietrich, there are ways out of this life of fear!" She pounded the desk with her fist out of her growing frustration. "Well yeah it's somewhere in the atmosphere," He said as if he said it fifty times well he did say it a few times. "I don't know exactly," he looked at Ayala. She remembered something he had said to her, "If you need to come home without the puppet, pet, Head west south-west from the Vatican. And watch the sky." She said kinda mechanically, "Maybe it was Daniel who said that, hee, he's funny."" Are you coming boys," Kate said through the ear pieces." Yeah." He said, "you know what would happen the people you work with would end up seeing me because I can't hide like a wounded animal, then they'd call a farce on you and I'd be killed, and you'd be persecuted." he put a hand to his face, "face it I'm a dead man still." Abel looked at the girl in surprise. "Thank you that's the information we needed." He heads for the Iron Maiden, "Did you get that, Sister Kate? It sounds like he's somewhere near Sicily." "Your welcome on ii-chan." she smiled."got it. Now will you get up here." She barked. Abel looked at the others, "We better get on board Sister Kate can be a bit brush sometimes." "UGH!" Esther groaned as she walked over to her bed and plopped down on it, laying back and rubbing her temples. "So it's hopeless?" Her tone was cold, unlike her at all. Hugue and Leon nodded and quickly got aboard. Deitrich didn't know what else to do now, "yeah I guess, I know you want to help and that is why I love you." He said in absolute seriousness. Kemfer got on, "Shall we?" Ayama flipped into the ship. "We shall""are we all on boys and girls?" She was rearing to get going Her Majesty was in danger more importantly ester was. (umm her majestyisQueen Esther) ((mummy I'm not a retard it's a play on friendship. Please don't think I wouldn't know that)) "ARIBA A!" Leon hollered with a laugh as he boarded the ship. "Let's go save Ms Esther!!" Hugue shook his head. The corner of her lips curled up in a small smile. "Thanks..." she responded, her eyes still closed. Ayala giggled at Leon's expression. "Let's go see Cain." She didn't really understand what was happening still." Ayama lets go talk for a bit I need to explain this to you." He put a hand to her back and looked at the others to see if they objected. Kate nodded. He smiled, "well if that isn't the funniest thing ever." Daniel stood behind Dietrich, "I find nothing amusing about this, Master Dietrich." Deitrich waved him off. (ok sorry I have played with people that do make glaring mistakes like that even after it was explained to her once) ((but I meant to say what it says. It doesn't really change the meaning.)) Esther opened one eye to look at Dietrich. "I'm with Daniel... What's so funny?" "Nothing really you just looked super cute when you smiled and looked away all embarked," He chuckled," It put me in a better mood. Abel followed the others as they went up the gangplank, "Dandy Lion you need to calm down we have a ways to go before we can rescue Esther." Esther smiled fully then, "That's good. Thank you and you're welcome." she chuckled. Leon smiled widely, "Ha ha, alright. I'll try. But I can't wait to see her cute little face again!" Since no one was responding Member took Ayala to a secluded room of the ship to explain."You're welcome," he smiled." You made master smile miss queen, I am thankful." He looked at ester. Abel stepped inside the Iron Maiden. "Tree please take our guests to their cabins and make sure they are comfortable, I'll join you there later. " Then he headed up to the control room to consult with Sister Kate on their course. Ayala jumped on the bed and smiled up at member, "What do you need to tell me Isaac?" Kemfer sighed, "Cain isn't in control of us now, we are helping his enemy our ally. I just don't know why I mean I'm just as much a sadist as Dietrich, but there is something about Cain that bothers me."She just looked at him wide-eyed, "but he'll kill you.""well that is why I have teamed up with the Vatican."" This is the Vatican you mean we have...""yes little one this is the Vatican.""Eep," She didn't know what else to say she couldn't hurt these people, but Cain had told her to, no one that mechanical man was trying to shoot her.((tree isn't there, but most would already know and Ayala and Member know just because I am the RP creator, and Kate would have let them know.)) Kate was standing waiting for Abel. Abel discussed the course with Sister Kate. "I know I felt Cain's trail go north from London but Ayala said that Cain gave her directions that have to lead to somewhere on pr near Sicily. I wouldn't put it past him to be somewhere on Etna it would give him the unlimited power source he'd need for his devices. We need to head there at top speed but when we get close you should fly at nearly sea level, so his radar can't pick you up. He might have a Impulse cannon so be aware of that and keep the power couplings well headed we don't need to lose the From Maiden's controls." Kate nodded in response, "Ok able just let me know when we get to close to him. I only know the direction not the location."" It's ok Ayala," "No it's not, you want me to fight him I've never fought anyone and him I can't fight, just like I couldn't fight Abel. On top of it were his subordinates, and we have gone against his plans." She turned away from member, and he knew he had to leave. When he was gone Ayala laid across the bed and sighed. Kemfer Just stood against the wall outside the room, to let her be alone. "I will, it will take us several hours to get close enough for me to sense him again." Able walked back down to the cabin level and sees Member. "Is Ayala settled into her cabin? I need to talk with you." "I think so," He nodded, "sure we can talk. You probably want an explanation"Ayala curled in a ball and fell asleep before she got to far thinking. Esther smiled again, sitting up on her bed, feeling better. "You're welcome. He hasn't been smiling much?" "He smiled once?"" Shut up Daniel." he shook his head. Abel nods, "I want you to tell me what's really going on. Who is the girl and why has my brother kept her a secret?" Member shook his head, "I really don't know why he hid her, apparently he kept her in his room back when you guys were all together, and you let her go. Then he caught her again, because she was a wild Causing. He never really said anything else about her. I mean you could talk to here some if you wanted she would Beale to say more." "I still don't quite understand how sh could be a wild Russia, we are created creature designed to defend against Methuselah. It's impossible for there to be a wild one." Abel shakes his head mystified. Then looks at Member," What has happened to change your allegiance form my brother and the Dozen group?" "Ok I used the wrong term, I'm sure you can lose control of you will power....?" Esther giggled, then looked to them with a smile. Gosh, they reminded her of Abel and Tree...always arguing but the best of allies. Her smile lowered to a neutral expression, she missed them... "I think I understand what you mean not wild so much as untrained and uncontrolled but Still can't figure out how he hid her from the rest of us. It's nearly impossible to hide things on a space station. We weren't allowed to have any real privacy." Abel looks perplexed "Are you sure he didn't create her somehow once he came here." "Well I'm pretty sure He didn't but who knows you, have been here a long time." He was trying.Dietrich nodded, "uh so you hungry." "I guess I will need to talk to Game and see if she can tell me everything she remembers" Says Abel "yeah that would probably be better than what I know." He said sighing and heading toward the Bridge, "Oh and be gentle, don't startle her awake." Ayama had curled up in the center of her bed. Abel nodded and went to the cabin door opening it to look in at the girl. He came in and sat down is a chair to watch her. Esther nodded and pulled her knees to herself as her stomach growled lightly. "Yea, I kinda am." "Member that's not you, it's Abel what do you want?" She didn't move, but she had so much on her mind.Member sighed knowing things were going poorly for the little girl, not that she wasn't substantially older than him. Deitrich smiled, "ok I'll be right back." He knew exactly what he was going to bring her, Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, one thing he really liked to remember. Daniel just stood there perfectly polished looking just like tree, "Tell me about Louis 13" Abel looks at her. "I came in to talk to you. I want to know about you, tell me about yourself we have sometime now." "Don't want you want to kill him, Meany." She said staying in the same place. Abel looks at he "Why do you think I want to kill my own brother? All I want to do is stop him form hurting my friends." "Because everyone else acts like they want him dead. What makes you any different your owned by the Vatican, you're supposed to want what the Vatican wants." She said sitting up. "It's true I work for the Vatican and that they would be happier if Cain were dead. But I can think and act for myself. I do want to capture Cain, release my friend, but I would never commit fratricide unless he forces me to fight him to the death. Even though because of him we have already lost one sibling." Abel looks down at his folded hands mournfully. "Oh" She sat there for several minutes, "I remember being in a tube, full of water for a few minutes and then released, and then nothing for a while, That's my first memory." Abel looks thoughtful,"It was more likely a lot longer than a few minutes. Do you remember who put you in the tube, or who took you out of it? Did it feel different when you woke up?" "It felt immensely different when I woke up later, and when I came out of the tube, It was Cain, I'm not sure who put me in. It might have been two boys a blonde like Cain and a Silver hair like yourself or maybe just the blonde." "I have no recollection of you or putting anyone into cryosleep." Says Abel puzzled. He looks at her. "And I only remember myself, Cain, Seth and Lilith being turned into Kubrick, there were no other 'test' subjects on the station." Esther nodded to Dietrich as he left the room. She turned to Daniel and tilted her head in slight confusion. "Who?" "Father Louis"Ayala shook her head, "I don't understand I woke up there. Cain told me he made me a causing, and that I would crave vampire blood. I cried a long time." she said sadly "Perhaps he created you after he came down here. It could be possible if he transfused you with some of his own blood." Abel looks at her speculatively. "I don't remember." she stood up. "It's also a little impossible because you saved me from the wall in his room. I remember that day" Abel frowns, "I wish I could remember, I have lost so many memories." "For me the day began as usual, Cain told me stories of the day before. Oh, yeah the setting, I was tied by the wrists to a loop on his floor, by the wrist, because he thought he would get in trouble for something." she added. "That could not be on the space station, there were no rings in the floors there." Abel looks thoughtful "Perhaps he recreated the setting to cause confusion." "Oh," she sat on the floor with a harrumph "but it's so clear in my head, that day when he left a few hours later there was shouting and you I'm sure it was you came in and pointed at me then him yelling, and you undid the tie how you did it I'm not sure, but I was able to move, out of their out of the room, then I went away. I don't remember what exactly happened after that." It clicked. "Oh!" Esther began then frowned. "I'm sorry, I actually don't know that much about him besides that he's Father Abel's partner and is devoted to Cardinal Catrina. (?)" Hopefully she wasn't giving them information to use against them... Abel looked down at Game, "Can you tell me anything about Cain's headquarters?" "Hmm mm, it's just a big air ship I don't really know it has a hot tub on the deck, wasn't on it very long, well free." She said sadly, "He just decided to since he fought you last.""Oh, is that all." He put that away, but it wasn't much he didn't know. "Well that might make finding him a bit harder than I thought. An airship can be moved." Abel looks a bit worried. "I was hoping he had a land based headquarters." Esther nodded unsurely. "O-okay..."{{going to be gone this next week, starting tomorrow (Friday)}} ((ok well get as far as we can, I will be gone from Tuesday to Sunday, I just remembered must tell other rps to.)) Ayama smiled, "Nope he promised he wouldn't move till I got back, so it shouldn't be too bad." "Well that should help us find him then." Abel smiles at her "Is there anything I can tell you?"(Ok well I'm not going anywhere for the holiday) (ok sorry)Ayala shook her head, "I don't want to know anything I don't need to. I don't really know why I even exist like this." She was starting into something she never talked about. Abel smiled at her, "I don't think any of us know why we are here. But you should never close yourself to learning new things." She nodded, "you are ok. I don't mean that I just don't know anything about what I am and why did he choose me?" "I might make a guess, but that is all it would be. " Says Abel, "Cain may have wanted to use you to try and control me." "But how could I do that?" She was confused again. "Cain would be not hesitant to threaten your safety." Abel looks worried. "He knows I would want to protect you." "Oh I guess." She sighed, and laid down. "This is so weird to think about." "I'm afraid my brother is a master of manipulating others." Abel gets a faraway look in his eyes. "He excelled in psychological warfare." "OH' She curled into a ball pulling her white braid to her front. "That's not nice." Abel nods, "My brother is not very nice, we often fought and argued when we were growing up." "I remember hearing that once," She remembered again the day able Burstein screaming about breaking rules and how Cain shouldn't have stolen her from her life as a vampire, but Cain argued back that he had been thinking it to. "It was interesting." Abel gets up "I guess I will have to go tell Sister Kate that Cain might be a bit harder to find than I first thought." "I think Member is there, I would like to go with you," She thought a moment, "I'm sorry I can't tell you more I'm not sure of it all, just I do know you were involved, on ii-chan," She had stood up while talking and walked over to able, and hugged him as be she could around the waist.((because of how much taller he is then her.)) Kemfer was enjoying a cup of tea made by Kate and small talk. "So what is it like to run this ship?"" Drink you tea and leave me be." Kate responded focusing on her job. Abel smiles and hugs her back. "Alright you can come with me but promise me don't touch anything "I'm not a little kid," She said seriously. She let go and opened the door waiting for Abel. "I realize that, but you do look like one so forgive me if I forget from time to time." he grins at her. Ayala stopped touched her chest the bangles in her ears the headpiece her well-formed waist, "I'm not sure what you mean, I've seen pictures of The queen and I look older than her." "You do look old than Seth, but you still look far younger than me or Cain. Or even Esther." replies Abel. She just growled a little and walked off towards the deck. She officially didn't like ester. Abel followed after her no sure what was wrong," Did I say something?" "She looks like a teen There is no way I look like a teenager." She pouted. "B-but I thought all girls like to be thought to look like teenagers." Abel said perplexedly "I've lived a long time able I don't want to be thought of as young." She smiled up at him. She couldn't help it she was only 4'9''. "Alright," he shakes his head still mystified by the mystery of a woman. She nodded her head, "Thank you on ii-chan." Abel holds open the door to the control room for Game. "Thank you," She saw Member and went and hugged him, "Hi Isaac enjoying more tea I see."" Of course. You seem better." He smiled back. Abel followed her in and smiled at Member. Then went over to confer privately with Sister Kate. "Hi Abel what do you need?" Kate said as he approached."Yeah, I'm feeling much better" She smiled up at Abel, but he wasn't paying attention. She pulled a chair out and sat in it." It's all fine with me but why not rest awhile,""because it's lonely there." She smiled at him."You really are something, you want me to sit in there so it's not empty?" He asked." Please," She was desperately afraid of being alone so they got up and went to Ayala's room. Abel purses his lips, "It may be harder to find Cain than I first thought. His headquarters is mobile. I was hoping Cain had established a land base but Game informed me that is it a ship." "Isn't that what you said before, Hamm maybe not, but I understand, is he going to move or wait for her?" She was thinking and talking at the same time. "I said he had a ship, but I had hoped he had a land base somewhere on Sicily, but it looks like I was wrong." Replies Abel. "I had hoped we'd be able to locate where he resupplies from." "Oh ok." she said looking over her scopes, "Could that be him," She pointed to a big dot on her radar. Abel peers at the radar hit and frowns "Possibly, we need to approach cautiously. The Empire has ships out here as well. It is free airspace." She nodded and slowed, "Should I dive now?" she was asking because she wasn't sure how Cain worked. Kemfer drank his tea quietly. Ayama sighed, and looked at Abel and Kate, "Hey Nissan did I hear you say Cain's ship?" she perked up. "It might be wise to remain on course and act like we haven't noticed him. If we have him on radar he probably has us as well. If the try to evade now it will raise his suspicions" says Abel. He looks at Game, "Do you know what his ship looks like?" Ayala giggled and walked over, "It's big like this one and white, because he is's his favorite color I think." She smiled at him. Kemfer nodded, "It's got the rozencruiz order symbol on the side." He thought a moment then pointed at his band as well as Adams, "That, I forgot we still had these on." Abel looked at the arm bands a frowned. "Sister Kate take evasive action immediately!" He grabs Member's arm. "Cain knows we are coming, those are tracers. He's known where you were the whole time!!" Ayala mewled, "I'm sorry able I didn't know I-I" She ran back the hall. Kemfer ripped his off, "Sorry Father I honestly forgot about it, It's been there to long."" What kind of evasive action" She said starting a dive. Cain chuckled, "My pets are leading them to me, I hope anyway it seems so." Deitrich had returned to esters room with a plate of preamp;j sandwiches when Cain called him to the bridge. "We have to get rid of the tracers and get away from Cain's ship." Abel tosses Member's band overboard and chases after the girl. "Game!! Wait it's not your fault, but I have to dispose of the band or Cain will keep following us!" Esther looked at the tray of sandwiches then to Dietrich as he dashed off. Her eyebrows scrunched in curiosity. What could be going on? She prayed Dietrich would be okay as she said a quick blessing before munching on a sandwich. She smiled lightly. He still knew how to make a good Preamp;J... Leon was jolted awake as the ship began to jostle. He got up and walked out into the hall, seeing Abel chase Game towards him. "What the bloody hell is going on?" he asked as he scratched his head. Ayala scrunched down in front of Leon, "We forgot about our bands." Ayala wanted to hide, but it seemed everyone would get in her way. Daniel nodded at Ester, "Stay here miss we are going to be boarding soon." Abel catches up and grabs her arm removing the band. "It's not your fault I should have thought about it myself." He tosses the band out the window. "Now we have to hope that our ship is faster than Cain's." Ayala held herself, "I'm sorry I hope you can forgive us. Oh, wait you did" She relaxed, "Shall I get ready to confront a mad man?" She looked at Abel. Kemfer frowned, "I shall prepare for a very angry man." "We can get ready in case we can't elude Cain's ship, but hopefully we won't have to fight just yet." Abel peers out the window at the distant ship. Ayala nodded and Joined Abel watching the ship approach. Kemfer stood behind her, "He won't be happy with us, but we will do what we can." He looked at Abel." Alright riders we are now close to water level," She looked at her radar and then at the approaching White vessel. Deitrich was turning the ship and watching the Iron Maiden. "Cain what do you want me to do?"" Wait and watch." Cain said sliding into his clothes. Stretching his wings. {{GASP! TRAITOR!! XD}} ((thanks Chi sorry wrong name meant Dietrich I will fix. I'm kinda wearing down on my brain cells. It's close to finals for me.)) {{Haha it's cool. Finals start next week for me too}} (if you both want to suspend so you can study it's alright by me.) ((I'm good for this week I don't have tests till the week after next is up to CHY)) {{*shrug* I'm cool. I'm not needed to often anyway, plus, most of my classes are art classes so little studying here}} ((same here 3 none written exams 2 written)) Abel looked at the girl, "If we do have to fight, I want you to do something for me. I want you to stay out of danger. Furthermore, I don't want Cain taking you again." Ayala shook her head, "He won't I need to fight him though one is not enough against him am I right?" "I would rather you didn't, he is my problem. He's my brother I need to handle him myself." Says Abel, "But if you must do something if I start fighting him, can you help Leon rescue Queen Esther?" Leon smiled when he heard he would be rescuing Esther, and possibly working with Game. He saluted jokingly. "You can count on me Abel!" Defeated she nodded, "And Daniel is Sword dancers."" And we should take Dietrich with us." Member hated the little man, but he didn't need to stay there anymore either. "Yes. Sword dancer too." Abel looks at Leon "That way, you can keep an eye on each other." Huge appeared behind Leon and placed his hand on his shoulder, causing him to jump a little. "Aye. Will do." he answered"WILL YOU QUIT DOING THAT?!" Ayala giggled, "Your silly lion man." Kemfer shook his head, "This is a stranger bunch than I thought. Leon looked down at Ayala and sighed with a smile. "Glad I made someone happy." He stated as he reached down and ruffled her hair. Abel continues to watch the other ship frowning slightly. Ayala grumbled, "It's easy when you act like that." She went back to Abel and Member and watched the ship." Don't talk to him Ayala." Member whispered. Ayama giggled at Member. Kate saw something else coming. "Is that a dove?" Cain was going strong, "Brother come one now let's dance!" He laughed. Deitrich was pulling the ship up.so that he could get close to the Iron Maiden. Daniel ran out of the room. And to the bridge, "Dietrich are you preparing to board?" Abel opens the access door. "Stay here unless the ships close." Then he swings out and climbs the up the service ladder to the top of the Iron Maiden. "Hi Abel," Cain said with a smile. "Where are my pets?"" Ayama's eyes sparkled when she watched Cain fly close. Kemfer Pulled her to him hiding her aw from the others. He glared out at the white winged monster. Esther was growing curious at what was going on. She went to the window and looked out. Then she gasped, there was the Iron Maiden. "Abel..." she whispered. Leon looked outside. "They're coming closer." he said, his tone serious now. He left the window and went to make sure they're supplies were ready to board when necessary. Ayala grumbled, "I don't want to fight. I don't want them to fight." Kemfer tightened his grip, "Ayala, please don't go out there."" Miss Ayala don't make our jobs harder than they already are." Abel stood atop the Iron Maiden waiting for his brother. " Brunswick 02 Loading 70%" "WWW you don't wanna talk to me?" We can talk but I am not naive Cain. Why did you take Queen Esther captive? " Says Abel as he stands on the Iron Maiden is his Brunswick form. "Let me ask you, what are my objectives in this world?" He landed and smiled at his brother. Ayama was being held back by member who was losing his hold, "Ayala please.""NO brothers shouldn't fight, and sisters should intervene." She fought free, and started looking for the way to the roof. "Your objectives are objectionable." Abel looks at Cain," I cannot allow you to destroy what they have struggled so hard to being back." "WWW there she is!" Cain said gesturing to somewhere behind Abel. His claws were out, and he was ready for whatever was about to take place. Ayama stood there looking at both Cain and Abel, "Don't fight, please your brothers, you shouldn't fight." Cain shook his head, "I will destroy all those who get in my way." He glared at the other two crisis. Kemfer swore when she got free, "She's got that stupid speed." He looked at the others in the room. "Shall we ready to board?" Leon nodded, and stuck out a thumbs up with a wink. "You got it!" Hugue merely silently unsheathed his sword a little and resheathed it. He was ready for that rematch. Abel unfurled his wings rising into the air. "Cain I will not allow you to take her prisoner again." Ayala whispered, "Cruising 05 nanomachine 60% activate." Her deep purple FAE wings spread wide, her hair furled out, her green eyes turned white, and she faced the brothers with a black bow, "Stop fighting," growled the deep monsters voice. Cain stopped approaching his brother when he saw the flapping of purple, "Acidic purple beautiful FAE come to me, and we shall fight he who turned you loose." He turned back to Abel certain that Alma would turn on him. Ayama giggled, "NO! I don't want either of you to fight." At that moment the white ship bumped the Iron Maiden, and caused the three causing to take flight." Board now Daniel I'm behind you!" Dietrich started but Member was behind him holding him down in after he finished the sentence, "Hello magician."" Deitrich were is miss ester." Member whispered into Dietrich's ear. Daniel was distracted by his masters capture. Abel tried to keep himself between Cain and Ayala his scythe at ready to defend himself and her. When the ships collided, Esther screamed as she was thrown to the floor by the force. She lifted herself on her arms and looked around. "What was that?!" She scrambled to her feet and tried her door...it was locked. She banged on the door. "Hey!! What's going on here?! Let me out!!" Leon was standing over Dietrich as Member held him down, waiting for an answer. He turned his head towards the sounds he heard. What was that? Hugue was unsheathed his sword slightly, watching Daniel with sharp green eyes. If he so much as flinched, Sword dancer would be ready to stop him... Member laughed, "Ester's down the all Leon. Go! Dietrich, please stop this. Not that I like your or anything but hasn't this whole thing gone on long enough, and don't you want to keep miss ester safe?"" I don't know what I want and would you get off me Magician." Dietrich struggled under the weight of the bigger man. Daniel moved to block Leon, but then remembered that Cain or Dietrich didn't need her for what ever they were going to do. Also, he had a more important opponent. He moved back and to let Leon by not taking his eyes from the man with the sword. Kate worked getting the ship back under control. Cain laughed his sadistic laugh and smiled at able, "Abel she doesn't want us to fight, does she know why we fight?" Ayama stopped a moment. She wanted to here this, her wing fluttered away, as she floated with her bow by her side. Leon nodded, "Got it" and bolted down the hall. Once he neared the end of it, he began to call for her. "ESTHER?! MISS ESTHER WHERE ARE YOU?!" Esther knew the voice to well and a smile burst on her face. "FATHER LEON! IN HERE!!" Leon looked to the door where he heard her voice and smiled. He ran to it and tried to open it...but it was locked tight. "Crud... Esther stand back, I'm gonna break down the door..." Esther nodded and quickly ran to the other side of the room, she knew how strong the Vatican's priests were. "Alright!!" The next second there was a loud bang and the door came down with a thud. Esther smiled and ran into Leon's arms. Leon hugged her tightly, not having seen her in years. Then he held her at arms length. "AWW! Don't you look just adorable in that dress!! Your features seem to glow!" he gushed. Esther blushed lightly. "Father Leon, I don't think now is the best time..."" Oh, right, my apologies. Let's get out of here." Then he grabbed her and lifted her onto his shoulder, much like the first time they met, and took off down the hall towards the others. Member got off Dietrich and held on to his arms, "No using those string of yours." Abel glares at Cain, "We fight because you killed Lilith and want to destroy everything she wanted to protect. I swore on her grave I would stop you from doing so." "You mean those humans that deserve to die." He looked accusingly at able. Ayama cocked her head to one side, "What? Humans are just as essential as Methuselah, and It's really crisis that aren't needed." She sighed. Abel growls at his brother"They have as much as a right to live as we do." Cain chuckled, "But they fear and hate us, even though we can devour those they fear most." Ayama put her hands to her ears, "Shut up it's not you talking is it, you never talked like this before, Cain what's wrong?" She was floating behind Abel fearing going near Cain. Cain flew behind Abel and grabbed her hair pulling her close, "You never listened then!" He threw her back getting himself hit with her bow in the process. (Kate?) Abel whirled trying to stop his brother, "We look just like the others. How can you blame them for fearing us." "You don't get it either, even that Ester girl your so fond of and my pets, they fear our power us in our forms frightens them. Ayama coughed and then armed her bow, "Cain listens to Abel." She pointed it, empty of arrows at Cain. "You are wrong about Esther she even told me herself she doesn't fear me. If you give them a chance instead of terrifying them all time you'd know that." ((so hard to be evil, he can't cave yet!)) Cain bore his claws and went for Abel." And Member doesn't fear me, or Abel. He's too copy for that. If anything, I fear him a bit." Ayala smiled as a purple light arrow appeared in her bow, "I don't want to do this Cain to hurt Abel." Abel charged forward brandishing his scythe. Cain growled and Flew faster at Abel ignoring Ayala." Fine then." She let loose the arrow at Cain and hit his left leg, "I can't do it." She shook her head and flew at Cain, "Stop you two please!"Dietrich made a motion and Daniel jumped up pulling his sword out, "Die, sword boy!" He said coming down at Huge. Kemfer threw Dietrich at the wall, "Dietrich, stop this." Abel deflected Cain's claws with his blade, dodging aside. Huge quickly blocked Daniel's attack and threw him off, skidding back some. "Dying for a rematch?" He asked as he charged towards Daniel, at least trying to disarm him Leon made it to the main room with the gang but froze at the exit of the hallway as he saw the fight. "Maybe we should come back later..." Esther looked at him confused, "Why-?" then she heard the clatter of swords and looked. Then she saw Member hurting Dietrich. "Leave him alone!!" She cried as she squirmed out of Leon's grip."Whoa, there!" Leon quickly grabbed her again, holding her back. "He's on our side!" Esther looked up at him with an incredulous look. "THEN WHY ARE WE FIGHTING?!" "Following orders," Daniel said and as soon as swordancer was about to make contact he went down and flip him over his head." I can't live any other way I just can't, he'll find you and kill you, you know that right traitor." He spat at member whose face wrinkled in disgusted. Kemfer disappeared. Huge's eyes grew wide as he was flipped, but he adjusted himself so that he landed on his feet, ready for his next move. Abel closed with Cain and blocked his brother's attack. Cain grumbled and tried to get his brother in the stomach. Ayama watched in horror as the two men fought. "STOP IT Please" She was feeling weaker, she got to the deck then looked back up at them. Dietrich growled at member's invisibility, "Where are you Magician."" Heh as if I'd tell you calm down and call of your dog" The voice came from everywhere. Daniel stopped He stared around trying to find the source of the voice. Abel tried to use the shaft of his scythe to knock Cain in the head. Cain blocked with his hands, and hissed. Ayama was slowly getting even angrier now that she had relaxed to a point. Abel glared at his brother, "Why are you so determined to destroy everything we wanted to save?" Cain suddenly stopped, "Because they made us, they didn't ask or anything, they just took us away and turned us into these." She had returned to the sky, "So that makes it right for you to do it, even though it's the reason you hate humans."" That wasn't me." He flashed a glance up in anger, "Did Magician say that. Abel and I found you months after we were reprimanded for watching a Methuselah." His eyes were growing, "I'd never want this to happen." He pointed to himself, He was the picture of calm and there was no wavering to his voice. Abel glances up at her and then back at Cain "I don't remember any of that." "Ha of course you don't you died, and lost that info." Cain laughed. Ayama looked at Abel. Abel glared at him "And whose fault is that?" ((don't know what to say, raw it's hard to play Cain.))

Trinity Blood (yes I noticed that all the others came to a stop so I thought I could start over)|rating:3.0

[EX] The Mannequin's Tale (Salamander and Jessica)

THE MANNEQUIN'S TALEIntroductionFromThe Rise of the Mannequins (2063):Quote Mannequin technology was available in the early 2030s, but it wasn't until the 40s that it became a major commercial proposition. The basic idea was this: a bunch of microchips was implanted in the person's spinal cord and brain. The chips had a neural interface, which overrode the person's control of their skeletal muscular system. All the muscles that someone could consciously move-limbs, hands, toes, sometimes even eyes-were taken over, and could be controlled via a wireless link to an outside computer. For safety reasons, breathing was normally left alone. The mannequin's controller could potentially do just about anything with it (mannequins were normally referred to as 'it' rather than 'him' or 'her'), limited only by the sophistication of the implanted chips and controlling computer system. The early mannequins were generally just that-living bodies that were frozen into the desired pose and used mainly in the fashion industry. Improvements in hardware and software led to mannequins that could carry out a pre-programmed sequence of moves. This made mannequins ideal for exotic dancing and, as the programs became more advanced, prostitution. Simultaneously, a 'mannequin art' or manna rt movement developed. Mannequins started to be used as furniture or ornament in fashionable nightclubs and increasingly also in private homes. Two additional refinements were necessary for mannequins to become the widespread fashion that they are today. The first of these was the consciousness control circuit. Many psychological studies had shown that long-term mannequin status caused severe psychological damage, except in those few sexual deviants who actually enjoyed it. Consciousness control meant that mannequins could be kept unconscious while they were mannequins, and this in turn meant that it was safe to be a mannequin for a longer time span. A woman (and they mainly were women aged 18-30) could 'sign on' for up to two years of mannequin hood, and when she woke up she wouldn't remember a thing. Because mannequins were very well paid, this became a popular way for young women to fund their university degrees, pay off debts, get a deposit for their first mortgage or just go on an all-out wild shopping spree. The second big development was in waste control. Very few customers enjoyed having to toilet their mannequins and clean them up afterward, and this limited the popularity of mannequins. Then Sony Body tech came up with the MacLean system. This involved surgery to seal off most of the alimentary canal, provision of an enlarged bladder and an easy-to-use catheterization tool. Mannequins could now be kept on an all-liquid diet, and the customer merely had to Catherine them with a Mannecleaner (No Mess! No Spillage! Its MacLean!) on a daily basis. There was, of course, a darker side to all of this. Occasionally, software or hardware faults would cause the consciousness control circuit to fail, and the mannequin would become conscious, trapped in its own body and unable to control even the simplest bodily functions. Many of these poor individuals went insane. Worse still, there were some deeply perverted men who wanted conscious mannequins, and enjoyed the pain and humiliation that they inflicted on them. Sometimes it was possible to bribe someone in one of the big mannequin manufacturing corporations to deliberately sabotage the circuits. It was highly illegal, but it happened.... Kelly Jones had been a bad girl. One her superiors at the bank that she worked for had really pissed her off. He'd slapped her bum, tried to feel up her tits-the usual bullshit. The guy was a real high-flier on a massive salary, so he probably thought that he could do anything. That Jack Stone was a bastard. Anyway... Kelly had gotten so pissed off that she decided to defraud the bank. The idea was to rip off a big stack of cash, and then blow most of it on a partying binge in the Caribbean. She'd still have enough to set herself up in Latin America afterwards-Kelly had planned to steal aloof money. And the best part? She'd hacked Jack's account. When the shit hit the fan it would look very bad for him. But of course it all went wrong. First, she wasn't able to steal as much as she'd intended. Then she got arrested half-way through her partying spree. The bank was very unhappy with her, but also kind of embarrassed by the breach in their security. They wanted to avoid a public trial, but they wanted their money back too. Which was tricky, because Kelly had already spent most of it. Then fortune seemed to smile on Kelly again. She landed a 2-year mannequin contract with Mesa Bodywork, the top-line maker of bespoke mannequins. According to their literature, one of their nannies could be re-configured in minutes- a table-girl could become an exotic dancer and then a fashion model in next to no time. And they paidreallywell. She'd even have some money left over after she'd paid off her debt to the bank. Chapter One: Dispatch and Delivery When Kelly woke up she was naked on a conveyor belt. Her arms were lying rigidly by her sides. Her legs were firmly together. There was some kind of double tube in her mouth that she was breathing through. She could still breathe, and she could move her eyes, but that was it. Every other muscle in her body was paralyzed, frozen, inert.Oh, fuck. I'm awake. What the fuck has gone wrong? Why is this happening to me? I should be fucking unconscious. Then she was lifted by mechanical arms. Slowly she went up, towards what appeared to be a gigantic roll of polythene sheeting. Then she was up against the roll, and machinery began to wrap the plastic around her body. She was being packaged.Oh, fuck. Please help me. Someone please help me. She could think, but she could not speak. And no one could hear her thinking......... Jack Stone smiled as he read the message. His mannequin had been made to his specifications. It would be ready for dispatch tomorrow. His investment in Mesa Bodywork had sure paid off, and not just in financial terms. In his sick twisted mind he ran through all the things that he would do to the fully conscious Kelly. That little whore...she'd fuck regret what she'd done. Hang on...'she' was just an 'it' now. Good. Degrade the fucking object bitch. Fuck it, fuck it hard, yeah, fuck its ass too. Get my friends to fuck it. Use it as a table, a lamp stand, a foot rest, a chair. Use it as an ashtray. As a urinal. MMM...yeah, hold a party with lots of beer, so everyone will piss in its mouth. Fist its cunt. Fuck it with a cattle prod. Take it to the estate and use it as a horse. Beat it black and blue. Make it crawl through the mud. Make it lick my shoes clean. Kick it. Piss on it. Maybe even get some of those new super-hormones for it, and turn it into my personal little milk cow. Fucking slut whore bitch cunt. I'll be dining on your body in a couple of days time-your body will be my fucking table. I'll eat my food on you, and then I'll stub out my cigarette in your mouth you little slut whore. And after that I'll fuck you hard and cum in your fucking face.... (opened her eyes, looking around her. A warehouse. Noise, heavy machinery. Something was wrong. Very wrong. She tried to move her arms, then, when she couldn't budge them an inch, her legs, getting the same response. Nothing. There was something in her mouth, a tube, allowing her to breathe... Breathe and see, see and breathe, that was all she could-no, she could think. Think... Oh, Gods!. She could think! Her breathing rate accelerated as thoughts rushed through her head, sending her into an immobile panic.'Oh, fuck. I'm awake. What the fuck has gone wrong? Why is this happening to me? I should be fucking unconscious.' She struggled to move her body again, but she may as well not bothered-only her eyes were allowed to move freely, her diaphragm and intercostal muscles working unconsciously, allowing her to breathe on her own. All her other muscles, the ones she would normally have voluntary control over, were locked solid. Her eyes widened in shock and fear as she felt herself lifted off the conveyor belt, unable even to bite down on the solid tubing supplying her with oxygen and removing any waste carbon dioxide. She continued to try and fight against whatever Mesa Bodywork had used to paralyze her body-they had assured her she wouldn't be able to think, that she'd wake up two years later and think nothing had happened! Her eyes darted over to the roll of plastic was being pressed against, slowly beginning to encircle her naked body-Oh Gods, no, no... they were packing her up... and no-one knew she was conscious, fully, horrifically conscious.'Oh, fuck. Please help me. Someone please help me.' The plastic sheeting continued to wrap around her body tightly, pushing up and over her head. For a split second she couldn't breathe, before she heard a loud puncturing sound, the tube clearing. Again and again the puncturing sound was heard, a large spiked mechanical arm penetrating the plastic each time the plastic sheeting wrapped about her head and body. After an eternity of terror the plastic sheeting stopped rotating, pulling away and snapping off from Kelly, leaving her wrapped under at least an inch of clear plastic, only her breathing tube and the soles of her slender feet exposed to the outside world. Inside the plastic, the world was blurred, and all Kelly could do was panic, her mind racing as the full enormity of her situation dawned on her. Her heartbeat raced, though her breathing was now limited, forcefully calming her down a fraction. Another two mechanical arms carried the mannequin to a coffin-shaped wooden box, partially filled with polystyrene beads, nestling the plastic mass within it. Another set of arms repositioned the mannequin as the lid was lowered down, a single hole within it lining up with Kelly's oxygen tube. With a low *thunk* the wooden lid slammed down. The only thing preventing Kelly's heart from racing up to dangerous speeds was her enforced shallow breathing, kept shallow by the restrictive plastic and fairly narrow plastic tubing. A loud pneumatic hiss could be heard, followed by a *chick*, the two sounds repeated over and over, and with sickening horror she realized they were nailing her in. She'd never felt terror so strong in all her life. Anna Firth was having a bad day. And the main reason for her having a bad day was Bob, the new employee. Of course, you've got to make allowances for new guys, of course you do. But Bob couldn't seem to getanythingright. He was driving her nuts. Bob, I've looked at the checklist for this one, and you haven't checked off that you've drained it. She slapped the crate with her hand-the crate with Kelly in it. Drained it? He looked at her blankly. For fuck's sake, they'd been through everything so many times, and he still didn't know what she was talking about. Yes, Bob, drained it. Mannecleaned it. Did you catheterize it Bob? Did you put the little tube-wubie in its pee-pee hole and suck out all the liquid? A dim glow of understanding spread across his face. Uh...no. I think I forgot to do that. Hey, look, I'm sorry...maybe I could unpack it and do it now? Anna shook her head. No way. It's due to be shipped out to New York in the next hour. Anyway, there'd be no point. Its bladder will be full to bursting by the time it arrives, but really the worst that can happen is some leakage in transit. It can't feel any pain y'know, no more a car or an oven can. Which is just as well, all things considered. New York, eh? Bob was keen to change the subject. I bet it'll be one of those arty mannequins in some fancy gallery then. I saw a program about that. Uh...no Bob. Have you looked at the mod spec on this thing? The module specification (mod spec for short) was the list of all the action modules that the mannequin had. These were pre-programmed sequences of physical movements that could be activated with a single click. The mannequin could also be controlled manually, but this was generally slower than using an action mod, and required the attention of the customer. Bob shook his head. Here. Check out this then. Anna handed him a sheaf of papers. Have a good look at what's on pages 5 through 11. You might learn something about the world. Bob looked at the mod spec, starting on page 5. There were a lot of weird-sounding things there that he didn't understand at all. Maybe he should ask Anna what they meant. Hey Anna. What's a pony girl with double dildo harness module? There's lots of stuff like that here. But Anna had walked away, and she wasn't listening. All she had to do was make sure that the crates got safely on to the trucks, and then she could go home and get away from this idiot. Less than two hours to go. Kelly's train of thought was suddenly interrupted by a low *bang* noise from above her-someone, or something had just hit the crate she was in. Her breathing spiked slightly, though not by much-she was already close to breathing as hard as the narrow tube and constricting pressure would allow her. Through the layers of plastic covering her head and ears she could faintly make out muffled voices, but the plastic was so thick that she couldn't make out what was being said, nor how many people were above her. She hoped they'd open the crate, unwrap her, tell her a mistake had happened and correct it- but nothing happened. The voices continued for several more minutes, before silence slowly settled back in.***Bob had followed on after Anna, Km7#0266/MSU7's mod spec in hand as he plied her with questions. She ignored them all on the way to the small, rather spartan staff room, making herself a cup of coffee before she started to speak again." Look Bob, they're just different programs some owners like to run, McKay?"she sighed, rubbing her brows as she took a sip of her coffee." You'll find out about them in time. Now go to stockroom F and send ten breathing tubes, size 3, to processing belt 2a, they need some more." This wasn't strictly true-processing belt 2a still had a good supply of the tubes, but she wanted to rid of him. Plus it'd be good to see if he could remember what a breathing tube size 3 was, and where all the associated places were." Sure thing Anna, right away..."he said, handing her back the mod spec and leaving the small room, heading right. Anna sighed, flicking the paperwork to page 5. Stockroom F was left... She took a seat, flicking through pages 5 to 11. She chuckled quietly to herself-the guy hiring Km7 was seriously warped. It was a damn good thing the mannequins didn't remember anything. She checked her watch just over an hour later, heading back to Km7's crate, glad to see it was already being fork lifted up and over to one of the supply trucks. Km7 was being transported to New York along with Ju8, Ps34 and Iy3. All but Km7 were being delivered to art galleries, whilst Km7 was to a private residence. The trip would take a couple of hours, which would normally be OK, but Bob had cocked up Km7's catheter, and leakage would be unavoidable. Mesa would no doubt be charged for that, but then again, it was just a little bit of dribbling, no more. Anna took out a small PDA from her pocket, signing off the 4 mannequins.***Kelly felt herself lifted, placed down again minutes later. She had no idea where she was, and the crushing emptiness of the crate kept her on edge. A few minutes passed in near silence before she heard a rumble, her crate vibrating-she was in a vehicle! She was being transported! Her heart rate sped up again, terrified-how long was the journey going to last? She'd go mad, the only feeling she was able to experience was the rough feel of the wood on the soles of her exposed feet. The truck drove on, the driver blissfully unaware of the conscious mannequin crated up in the back. Jack Stone had been tracking his order since it had left the factory earlier in the day. It was now nearly 4pm, and it was due to arrive soon. He looked at his roots (wrist computer), an ultra-light screen 3x3 inches that he wore around his left wrist. The image was of the inside of the delivery truck-he was getting a feed from their security camera. The truck was almost empty now. They'd dropped off 2 crates at Elysium, the premier manna rt gallery on the East Side, plus another at The Doll Explosion, an up-and-coming outfit that specialized in what they called 'kinetic mannequin expression theater'. He'd been to the opening night of their previous show-the bank was always good for free tickets to arty stuff- it'd been a bit too experimental for him (and if he was honest, too highbrow as well), but there was no denying the talent. Anyway, only one crate was left in the truck now. And it was his.(roots was sensitive to his eye movements as well as his voice. The 'Locking' command allowed him to control the screen centering with his eyes. He brought his crate into the middle of the roots screen. Zoom in The picture began zooming in, the detail getting finer and finer. Stop. Unlocking. And there it was: Km7#0266/MSU7. The serial number on the crate. Kelly's serial number. He knew it off by heart. He glanced at the count-down clock in the corner of the screen. ETA at the door of the building was only 6 minutes. It would take them maybe another 4 minutes to get the crate up to his penthouse. Soon. Soon I will be fucking you my little slut whore. Soon you will be my ashtray. Soon you'll pay for everything that you did. And I'm going to enjoy every fucking second of it. Jack turned his attention to his cock. His trousers and underpants were down around his knees, and his enormous penis stood upright, a rigid pole of meat that towered over the black tangle of his pubic hair. Jack's body was the product of repeated surgical inventions. His face had been sculpted, his nose and chin redesigned. Fat had been removed from his arms, legs and torso and his muscles had been augmented and rezoned. The most expensive item was his left eye. The original was badly damaged in his childhood, too badly damaged to be entirely corrected through surgery. He'd ended up getting it replaced with an artificial eye, which worked as well as or better than its natural counterpart on the right. Jack liked his new eye, but more than anything he loved his cock. He'd started out at exactly 5 inches. Penis enhancement surgery had gotten that up to 7.5, but that still hadn't been good enough for Jack. As the adverts said, a big man needs a big dick, and Jack was a big man alright. So with some misgivings he'd opted for an entirely artificial penis. It looked like a natural cock, felt like a natural cock, and functioned even better than a natural cock. It was a full 10.5 inches long, and massively fat as well. Furthermore, it was beautiful. Furthermore, it was a fucking work of art. He put his thumb and index finger around the base of his penis, and began to slowly move it up and down the shaft, all the time thinking about Kelly's cunt and what he wanted to do with it. Then he rubbed its head gently against the palm of his left hand while still stroking his cock shaft with the right. He squeezed it- not too hard-just below the glans. It felt good. He thought of Kelly's anus, imagining her bent over, ass in the air and cheeks wide apart. He wanted to fuck her anus until it bled, he wanted to fuck her so that it hurt her more than anything had ever hurt her before. Soon it would all be reality. Soon. He spat on his palm to give himself some lubrication, and rubbed the head of his cock against it more vigorously than before. And then there was a buzzing sound from his roots. It was here. The delivery men were chipped (most couriers were these days-you couldn't have security that was too tight), their chips matched their retina patterns, and both of those matched up with the delivery details that Mesa had sent through. He let them into the building. Then he stood up and did up his clothing. His groin was beginning to ache. He'd been hard for a couple of hours now, and he needed to fuck. He'd let the delivery men unpack his new toy, and as soon as they'd gone he'd have to fuck her. The manual from Mesa said that customers should feed and manna clean the product on arrival, but that would just have to wait-fucking first, then maybe maintenance. He needed to make sure that she didn't see him until the delivery guys were gone. He wanted her first sight of him to be his cock. That would be a surprise for the little bitch. If he needed to speak to the delivery people, then he'd disguise his voice with his reasonably convincing southern drawl. She mustn't know anything until his cock was out and ready to fuck her. His roots buzzed again. He put on his glasses (he didn't need them anymore, but they made him look smarter) and walked into the entrance hall. His order had arrived. Had she been able to, Kelly would have crossed her legs and whimpered-the journey was bad enough, suffocated and wrapped up in what amounted to a simple coffin, but now. Now she really, really needed to pee. She'd held it in for a while, before giving up and wetting herself-only, she was unable to. She had no control over her urination, and was forced to silently endure a very painful, swelling bladder. It was agony, and being unable to do anything but feel it expand was pure torture. Finally, mercifully, she felt the pressure ease very slightly-she was dribbling slightly, a thin stream of urine dribbling from her pussy and pooling within the folds of the plastic. She never realized how pleasurable it was to relieve an aching bladder, and could only lay still as the failsafe mechanisms continued to vent her pee to prevent bladder damage. She'd be able to properly pee when, or if, Jack fitted her catheter. The passage of time went on and on, extending for an eternity before finally, finally, she felt her crate moved, her heart skipping a beat-she'd arrived.***Jerry held up his left palm, then pressed his left eye close to the retinal scanner. The chip in his hand corresponded with his retinal pattern, and he stepped aside to let Marco do the same. The door clicked electronically open, and the two men heaved up the crate, carrying it into the main reception area before unceremoniously dumping it back onto the floor. Jerry mopped his brow, calling out as Marco crow barred open the crate."'a, Mr Stone... Where'd ya want ya mannequin?"he said, before leaning down to help Marco with the crate lid, exposing Km7 to the world again- or, at least, its plastic wrapped body." Lucky cunt..."muttered Marco under his breath, and, with Jerry's help, heaved the mannequin onto the floor." Wish I was rich enough to afford one of these things...""'a, give it a few more decades an' y'all be able ta,"chuckled Jerry, well aware that, as couriers, they'd never earn enough to rent one of the things they always delivered. Marco shook his head." Oh, shut up..."he said, grinning at his long time colleague." Come on, where the fuck is he, we need to be back for our next blasted order. Philadelphia, ain't it?" Jack ushered the delivery men carrying Kelly into his apartment. They noticed his hard-on, which was very visible through his tight-fitting trousers, but of course they said nothing. He gave them each a generous tip, and they left. Jerry had offered to unwrap Kelly for him, but Jack declined. All of his plans for surprising her were gone. Unwrapping would be straightforward enough, and he just wanted to get on with the business of fucking and abusing her. The couriers had left Kelly face-down on the floor, in the middle of Jack's Persian carpet. It was a seventeenth-century Keisha, woven in silk and one of his most valued possessions. It should've really been in a museum, but at the auction had outbid the museums, so it wasn't. And it certainly shouldn't have been on the floor. Jack liked to think that by putting such a treasure on the floor of his living room, he would impress his visitors with his casual disregard for wealth. In practice, he impressed them with his arrogant philistinism, but they didn't say so to his face. In any case, there was Kelly, and Jack was ready to unwrap her. He'd almost completely unrolled her when he noticed the smell. And then the liquid, which was soaking into his beloved carpet even as he pulled away the plastic sheet completely. Pulling away the sheeting was a mistake-piss went everywhere. Some of it went on Jack, but most of it was absorbed by the thick pile of the Keisha. Jack was horrified. He started screaming abuse. You filthy fucking whore. You've fucking pissed on my carpet you bitch. You're stinking piece of shit scum slut whore. He kicked her hard on her left side; the toe of his shoe got underneath her slightly and caught the edge of her rib cage. Then he had an idea. You like piss do you bitch? I'll give you piss then, if that's what you want. He'd never used the roots to control a mannequin before, but the Mesa models had a superb easy-to-use interface. Within a couple of minutes, he'd got her to move over so that she was face-down in the biggest wet patch on the floor. Then he knelt down, making sure to avoid the damp areas himself. He put his hand on the back of her head, and pushed her face into the piss-soaked carpet as hard as he could. His knee was between her shoulder blades, and he used his weight to push her chest into the floor. Her mouth and nostrils were full of stinking urine. She couldn't breathe at all. You like this does ya bitch? You like piss, don't you? Furthermore, you fucking piss-loving scummy little slut. Furthermore, you fucking piss-drinking whore. I'll give you piss you piss-loving slut. I'll give you fucking piss. He'd been holding her down over a minute, when something clicked-he realised that if he carried on like this he was going to kill her. Which wouldn't be good at all. He stood up, and heard her gasping for air. She was still alive. Then he had another idea. Okay you little piss-drinker, I'm going to give you a treat. You're going to suck every drop of piss out of my carpet, and then you're going to lick every drop of piss off of that plastic over there. He sat down in his chair, shaking. That had been close. He'd nearly gone over the top. He'd have to watch himself-no point in getting himself into trouble over a whore like Kelly. It took him a little while to get the settings right, but it was immensely satisfying when he did. She was on her hands and knees, sucking away at the urine in his Keisha. He felt more relaxed now. Reaching into his pocket, he got out a cigarette and lit it up. He sat back and smiled-watching this was going to be fun. Jerry and Marco both raised eyebrows as Jack came down, his erection clearly visible, but... well, it wasn't worth their jobs to mention it. Jerry pulled out a small cutting scalpel, removing the plastic lid, before Jack ushered him away-apparently the man wanted to unwrap it himself. They both accepted their $150 tips without question, thanking him profusely as they left, closing the door as they went."'hundred 'n' fifty dollars..."murmured Jerry, pocketing the notes as he climbed back into the truck with Marco." Bastard's got more money than sense..."***Kelly couldn't breathe properly, her tube almost flat against the floor. If it hadn't been for Jerry bumping into her, exposing the pipe a little, she would have suffocated completely. She felt the tightness about her body ease slowly as she was unwrapped. Her heart rate sped up, wondering who or what had ordered her, hoping they'd check to see if- As the final layer was pulled free, her piss dribbling everywhere, she caught sight of the man who'd unwrapped her. Her heart stopped, her eyes widening in horror- it was Jack Stone. Wild terror overtook her-he'd ordered her, and because of a mistake, she'd-Quote You filthy fucking whore. You've fucking pissed on my carpet you bitch. You're stinking piece of shit scum slut whore. She gasped through the pipe, feeling as if her ribs had been shattered by the blow. She panted for breath, eyes wide with pain and fear, unable to wriggle away or shield her exposed body-she'd never felt so vulnerable before, prone and exposed in front of a man who hated her. QuoteYou like piss do you bitch? I'll give you piss then, if that's what you want. She was reminded of her semi-full bladder, looking down and seeing... feeling... her piss soaking into the carpet or rug she was resting on. She was no longer leaking, but she'd dribbled enough in transit to soak the sheeting- and now all that was soaking into the fabric. Then-She was moving! Her legs, arms, neck, all her muscles and limbs were twitching, starting to stir without her willing them to; Jack was controlling her, her body, and she couldn't steal control from him. She was forced to feel her body move as he wanted it, and with mounting horror he realized that he was going to-She would have screamed out if she could have as her face was forced down into a puddle of her own urine, as if pushed by an invisible hand. She was suffocating in the dampness, increasing pressure on her neck jamming her down. Furthermore, she couldn't breathe, she couldn't see, fear and panic overwhelming her as she began to black out, realizing he was going to kill her, kill her by suffocating her in her own piss in the most humiliating way possible. The, suddenly, the pressure eased, and her head lifted a fraction. Her face was wet, soaked in urine, as she took deep, shuddering breaths of air, her vision still black about the edges. Unable to move her head she flicked her petrified eyes to her left, watching as he moved and sat down. She'd been with him for less than 5 minutes, and he'd almost killed her-had it not been for her bladder control, she would have wet herself there and then. QuoteOkay you little piss-drinker, I'm going to give you a treat. You're going to suck every drop of piss out of my carpet, and then you're going to lick every drop of piss off of that plastic over there. No. No. He couldn't... he. He... her body started to move again, slowly and mechanically at first, speeding up quickly as she felt her mouth and tongue manipulated, her face pushed down again as she started sucking at the soaked rug, swallowing what she sucked up. Her cheeks burned scarlet as her mouth worked as he wanted it to, disgusted with what he was making her do, knowing that this was not going to be the last thing he made her do. Maybe it would have been best if head killed her... Jack watched Kelly suck her own piss out of his carpet, and then watched her lick the amber droplets from off of the plastic sheeting that she'd been wrapped in. What a filthy whore she is, he thought. This is justice for the bitch. She has it coming, and she deserves everything that I do to her and more. She's no better than a dog. And then the idea struck him: she needed to be treated like a dog. That would teach rejecting him, to make nasty comments when all he'd done was touch her ass. That would teach her to humiliate him by hacking into his trading account. He'd had every right to touch her ass-he was a big guy in a big bank, a player, rich man who contributed hugely to the national economy (though not in the form of taxes, which he largely managed to avoid). She was just a junior trading officer, a nobody. And as for hacking into his account-well, that'd made him look stupid for having such an easy password (Big Dick 1 wasn't difficult to guess). Hehatedlooking stupid. Bitch slut, he'd fuck teach her alright. Jack got up and fetched some of the toys that he'd bought in preparation for Kelly's arrival. There was a dog collar and a lead, plus a big red dog food bowl with MY PET DOGGY written on it in large letters. He also got the Mannecleaner. He was hoping that there was still plenty of pee left inside. When Kelly had finished licking up the piss on the plastic wrapping, he had her kneel over, with her ass up in the air, just like he'd seen in the instructional video. The mannecleaner was in 3 sections. The middle section looked a bit like one of those old hand-held vacuum cleaners, the sort of thing that people used to use to clean their cars. Attached to the front was thin plastic pipe, and at the back was a hose that fed into a cylinder, which is where all the 'waste liquid' (as the manufacturers called it) ended up. The front tube slipped easily into Kelly's urethra. He turned on the mannecleaner, and watched with satisfaction as the cylinder filled up half way. Excellent-there were maybe three bowl fulls of piss in there. He removed the tube from Kelly, switched off the machine, and disconnected the cylinder. Jack put the bowl well away from his precious Persian carpet, about 10 feet away from where Kelly was kneeling. Next to it was the cylinder of urine. He walked back over to Kelly, put the dog collar around her throat and attached the lead. He could have made her go over to the dog bowl-he could easily control her movements after all. But he thought that it would be more fun to pull her over. He even used the Resist Movement 3c Action Module to make her pull back a little. Being dragged across the carpet burned her knees and lower legs, and the collar choked her so that at times she could not breathe. All the while he was shouting commands at her. Come on Kelly-dog. Come for dinkies my little pet. Jack has some more pee for you to drink my little piss-dog. C'mon now Kelly, be a good doggy and get your lovely piss-drink. Come to Jack now Kelly. Come for Missy-drinkies... And so on. When he finally got her near to the bowl, he told her'Sit', which she did, having no choice. He filled up the bowl with warm piss from the cylinder. He smiled. Beg for piss now Kelly. He controlled her to sit up and beg like a dog, her tongue hanging out and her arms and wrists held bent in front of her. Nod if you love drinking piss Kelly. He made her nod. Nod if you're a piss-drinking slut dog. She nodded again. Good dog, Kelly. Good dog. Now you can drink your piss. She put her head down to the bowl, and began to lap up the warm urine with her tongue. Just like a dog, thought Jack. As she drank her piss from the dog bowl, Jack adjusted some of her variables with his roots. Her anus and vagina were both on the factory setting-very tight. He dilated them a little. Then he changed the setting for orgasm control from 1 (no orgasm) all the way up to the maximum of 10 (very rapid orgasm). By this time she'd finished her first bowl of urine. Nod if you want more, my lovely piss bitch. She nodded. He refilled the bowl. She continued lapping up piss, and Jack began to play with her. He began by gently rubbing her clit, and once she was wet (which didn't take long on her settings) he slipped 2 fingers into her pussy and began to slowly finger-fuck her. Then he increased the pressure on her clitoris and speeded up with his fingers-she came almost immediately, spasms of ecstasy rippling through her gorgeous body. She could cum, but she couldn't moan-her orgasm was silent, but no less explosive for that. He continued playing with her, and she came again. By the time she'd reached her third orgasm, she'd finished drinking the bowl of piss. He refilled the bowl. The cylinder was empty now. Then he got his cock out. It was hard again, and he needed to fuck. You're a filthy slut Kelly. Only a whore like you could cum while drinking piss out of a dog bowl. You're disgusting. You're lower than a dog Kelly. Furthermore, you're lower than a worm you dirty piss-drinking piece of shit. Furthermore, you're the lowest most disgusting piss-whore on the planet, Kelly. Furthermore, you stink of piss and your mouth is full of piss, and you still cum like a slut on heat. Now, Kelly-nod if you want me to fuck your filthy little cunt. She nodded. Nod if you want me to come in your ass, you sick piece of filth. She nodded again; she had no choice-he controlled her body utterly. He fucked her as she lapped up the third bowl of urine. She fucked her hard, for his own pleasure, and his massively engorged cock rammed against the walls of her pussy over and over again. She came repeatedly, her body shaking in silent paroxysms of sexual pleasure. When he was close to his own climax, he thrust his cock into her anus. She was very tight, and he used no lubrication, so it hurt like hell. But after only a few strokes in her ass she came again, and so did he. He stood up and did up his trousers. He noted that he smelled slightly of piss. Time for a shower and a change of clothes. Then he'd have to clean everything up, including his whore Kelly. He left her still knelt over with the collar around her throat; her face in a now empty dog bowl; piss on her body, in her hair and in her mouth; her anus oozing semen. Kelly gagged reflexively as she lapped up the liquid that she'd vented all over the sheeting and rug. She wanted to stop, wanted to pull her head away, but she no longer had that choice. Her body was completely out of her control, and unless Jack deactivated the control chip she'd remain little more than a puppet. At least puppets couldn't think for themselves, or feel fear or humiliation. She heard Jack stand and move away, but from her crouched position she couldn't move her eyes about far enough to see what he was doing. In truth, she didn't want to know- It wasn't as if she could stop him now. Just as she thought she couldn't last much longer she felt her head raise, her body shifting position, forced into a humiliating stance, the ass raised high up into the air on full display. It was an immensely uncomfortable position, but she'd hold it even if her muscles were to start burning in protest. She'd only drop it if permanent damage started occurring, but she'd suffer greatly until that point. She would have gasped if she could have as a thin plastic pipe was slipped up into her, feeling immensely relieved as she felt her bladder forcefully emptied by the pump. Furthermore, she didn't care at that point she had been forcefully relieved, didn't feel the humiliation associated with the draining process-all she knew was that that pain produced by her close to full bladder had gone in a heartbeat. She watched as Jack arranged some items away from the rug. It looked to be a Beau- Oh God. Bowl? Surely he wasn't- Her fears were confirmed as he came back to her, slipping on a collar attached to a lead. A dog. He was treating her like a dog. He began to drag her across the rug, her body unable to move properly, and combined with his dragging motions left her knees and legs with minor but painful friction burns. She choked involuntarily as he suffocated her with his tugs, the collar tightening about her throat with each pull, cutting off her oxygen. QuoteCome on Kelly-dog. Come for dinkies my little pet. Jack has some more pee for you to drink my little piss-dog. C'mon now Kelly, be a good doggy and get your lovely piss-drink. Come to Jack now Kelly. Come for Missy-drinkies... Kelly blushed deeply, tears dripping down her cheeks- an optional feature. If Jack so wished, they could be shut off entirely, though the mannequins required a daily eye drop to keep their eyes moistened. After an age of being dragged and choked she finally made it to the bowl, forced into a sitting position, her stomach clenching in horror as he saw him fill the bowl with her recent 'extraction'. He began making her bag, making her nod to his questions, her cheeks burning up as her tears rolled down them even as she panted and looked so eager to lap up her own piss. She wanted to die, wanted him to snuff her out now rather than live with another minute under this impossible humiliation. She had wronged him, she knew that- but no woman or man deserved this crushing treatment. QuoteGood dog, Kelly. Good dog. Now you can drink your piss. It had come. Her head leaned down, and she began to lap up her piss, tears dropping into the clear golden liquid. It tasted disgusting, and she wanted to retch, but all she could do was lap and drink, lap and drink, lap and drink... just like a dog drinking from a bowl of water. It took her only minutes to finish the first disgusting bowl, but it was quickly refilled as her body nodded, demanded more, her tongue forced back into the liquid. She didn't make any other noise, but would have cried out if she had had the capacity to, her clitoris suddenly buzzing as if he'd been stimulating it for minutes, not mere seconds. She quickly grew sopping wet within ten seconds, dripping down her legs, aching to cum already-she was not disappointed. As he began to finger-fuck her she came, her body staying stock still and silent even as she squirted a good two feet, waves of immense pleasure overwhelming her body. It was an incredibly odd experience, and one she was allowed to experience twice over, each time squirting powerfully, almost passing out with each one. Within the space of a minute and a half she'd cum three times, and had emptied the bowl. It was quickly refilled. QuoteYou're a filthy slut Kelly. Only a whore like you could cum while drinking piss out of a dog bowl. You're disgusting. You're lower than a dog Kelly. Furthermore, you're lower than a worm you dirty piss-drinking piece of shit. Furthermore, you're the lowest most disgusting piss-whore on the planet, Kelly. Furthermore, you stink of piss and your mouth is full of piss, and you still cum like a slut on heat. Now, Kelly-nod if you want me to fuck your filthy little cunt... Nod if you want me to come in your ass, you sick piece of filth. She nodded as she lapped, utterly broken down by his humiliating and degrading treatment of her, manipulating her body to meet his ends. A slow, dawning wave of horror loomed up ahead of her as she nodded, blushing scarlet, lapping her piss up- she was on hire for two years. Two years. She had been with Jack for less than an hour, and she was already destroyed, now being fucked as she drank her own filthy excretions. He was not gentle-he pounded into her exposed and vulnerable body without any care or consideration. Her eyes widened in pain as he rammed into her ass, feeling like he had ripped her anus apart, pain shooting through her still body. The pain was partly mitigated as she came yet again, this time alongside him, but very quickly the pain and humiliation of being ass fucked washed any pleasure away. She heard him pant, catch his breath and move away without moving her, leaving her leaking from both holes, the smell of piss filling her nose. Only another 700 odd days to go... Jack felt good. He'd needed that fuck, and he'd taught the little wore a lesson alright. He walked to the bathroom and had a nice leisurely shower. Then he put on some fresh clothes. Time to clean up. The Kleenabot ('Gives you the perfectly clean house you know you deserve') would be able to get rid of most of the mess, but really he'd need to get the Keisha carpet cleaned professionally. That could wait until tomorrow, though. He got the 'bot out of his hall cupboard, put it on to the 'MAX Carpet Clean' setting and carried it over to the worst area on the floor. Then he switched it on- it made a high-pitched sucking noise at it commenced to clean the carpet. He put the plastic sheeting down the waste tube, and thoroughly washed his hands afterward. Now it was time to clean up Kelly. He might as well make the bitch smell nice while he was at it. Jack ran a warm bath, and put in a variety of luxury bath salts and oils-the sort of thing that Kelly could never have afforded, at least not before she'd hacked into his account, the little bitch slut. He looked at one of the labels: 'Clive Christian Par fum de Bain No7'. That stuff had cost $1,000+ a tube, and he only bought it to impress his female guests. Smelled okay though...sort of flowery. When the bath was full, he switched on the jacuzzi. He went back into the living room. Kelly was still lying there with piss all over her body and cum dripping out of her ass, face in the dog bowl. He smiled. The dog thing had been agreatidea. He was a fucking genius. No doubt about it. He used his roots to reset her orgasm control back down to 5 (normal). Then he made her stand up and go into the bathroom. It took him a few minutes to get the programs straight-first, get into bath and wash body; second, wash hair; third, lie in the bath for 30 minutes on relaxed muscle settings; fourth, get out and dry self; fifth dry hair using the automatic hairdryer on the bathroom wall; sixth, leave bathroom and go into dining room; seventh, stand. Before starting up the sequence, he fetched the mannecleaner and made her bend over again. He emptied her bladder completely, and flushed the pee down the toilet. Then the program started-Jack stayed to watch Kelly get into the bath. He left her alone after that-he was hungry, and it was fast approaching supper time. Surprisingly, Jack was a good cook, and even more strangely he liked cooking. By the time he'd finished making his supper-swordfish steak sautéed in white wine and tarragon, baby carrots and potatoes and a small artichoke sou flee- Kelly was standing rigidly in the dining room, as if awaiting his orders. She smelled great. Okay, Kelly. Now you're going to get to do something useful. You're going to be my dining room table. Jack made her go down on to her hands and knees, her back as straight as he could manage. He placed his plate of food on to the small of her back; the small terrine of sou flee went between her shoulder blades; the glass of wine balanced nicely on her ass. The plate was warm, but the sou flee terrine was hot-hot enough to be painful, but not enough to burn her badly. Jack ate his food slowly, relishing the fine meal that he had made. As he ate, he casually stroked her sex. By the time he'd finished eating she was beginning to get wet again. The whore was enjoying it. After clearing away the dishes, Jack decided that he deserved a nice blow job. He looked through the menu-Medium Speed Deep Throat sounded ideal. He stood in front of her, got out his cock and slipped it into her open mouth. Better give you something to eat too, eh Kelly? She moved her head up and down, sucking slowly on his massively engorged penis, her tongue running up and down the shaft. She took his whole cock into her mouth-he could tell that she was gagging on it, but the program overrode her reflexes. It felt great. His cock head was rubbing against the back of her throat. He increased the setting, and she began to suck him more vigorously, now caressing his member with her tongue and the teeth of her lower jaw. He came explosively. Cum filled her mouth. He made her swallow. You must be horny too, Kelly baby. I'd better make you cum, my little whore Jack sat down again. He changed the dilation setting on her pussy to allow him to get his hand in, but not so much that it wouldn't hurt. He raised her orgasm control to 8. Then he rammed his hand into her sex, feeling her body jerk in shock and pain as he did so. He fist-fucked her slowly at first, but speeded up after her first orgasm. When she'd cum three times he stopped. Time for a special treat now. He could feel her cervix with his fingertips. He pushed his middle finger in, again feeling her involuntarily jolt with pain, and slowly rotated it to loosen her up. When he could, he got a second finger in. Then he finger-fucked her cervix. She was cumming, but he could tell that the pain was every bit as intense as the pleasure. He took his hand out. So, my darling Kelly, how was it for you my sweet? As he spoke, he switched off the voice control. She could talk now. She could say whatever she wanted to. Jack lit a cigarette, and listened impassively. He didn't answer her; he wouldn't react. When his cigarette was nearly finished, he put the voice control back on and made her open her mouth up wide. Y'know Kelly, the great thing about your being a table is that you've got a built-in ashtray. He stubbed out the cigarette on the roof of her mouth. Kelly remained still in her bowed down pose, forced to breathe in and smell her own piss. It was utterly degrading, and she couldn't help but let her tears splash down into the mostly empty bowl. She tried several times to pull her head up, but her muscles would not listen to her brain, remained fixed in place as if locked up in immobile metal chains. She closed her eyes and fought against the inhibitor chip again, pleading with her muscles to pull her head up, if only just a fraction to get away from the smell and sight just a tad. Furthermore, she remains fixed in place. He was back, she could hear him, fiddling about with some piece of machinery. A sudden whirring and sucking noise startled her, and for a horrible second she thought he was going to apply the device to her in some way. As it was, the only place the Kleenabot sucked away at was the floor and rug. She didn't hear Jack leave over the noise of the Kleenabot, resigned to the fact that, in his eyes, she was no more than a piece of furniture, to be left in any sort of condition without a thought for her mental state. Horrible thoughts once more flooded her mind, of being brought to the point of death over and over again, forced to commit 'suicide' by slow, painful means and only brought back seconds before death took a firm grip. Her only hope was that one time he'd slip up, and she really would die. Death scared her, but not as much as two years... two long, agonizing years, possibly more, of agony and humiliation. He was back. She couldn't see him, but she could almost feel his presence, in the same way stares can be felt. She was moving now, her body rising up from the bowl, glad to be away from the doggy bowl. Furthermore, she stood in stock silence, her eyes wide and fearful as she stared at him manipulating the controls, forced suddenly to bend down to be 'vented' of urine. Furthermore, she blushed scarlet as she was drained, hoping that one day 'urination', if you could call it that, wouldn't feel so humiliating. Kelly found herself moving again, heading upstairs to the bathroom and a full bubble bath. She reeled in horror as she approached, fearing either that the water would be boiling, or that he'd have her drown herself over and over. But no- the water was hot, not boiling, and far from drown herself she cleaned herself, just like she would have done normally in a bath. As she left her body to do what he had ordered it to, she was left to think... after all, it was all she could do now, think, think within a body that was no longer hers. Would he get her to drown herself after lulling her into a false sense of security? Why would he bother making her clean herself in such a non-invasive and relaxing manner? Surely he would have simply hosed her down if he wanted her clean... She continued to wash, relax and bathe herself, finally climbing out and drying off. Even after half an hour of muscle relaxing, she still felt tense, albeit mentally, as she walked downstairs again-something was amiss. She finally stopped in the dining room, mysteriously missing a table, standing straight and upright in a manner that would have made a drill sergeant proud. She would have never been able to adopt and hold such a position normally. Within five or so minutes Jack wandered in with a plate of delicious smelling food, though she knew that he'd cut off his own head before he fed her such a luxury meal. Dining table? What did he- It soon became readily apparent as she relaxed her pose, sinking to the floor, her back straightening up and holding itself in place? She winced as the sou flee was rested between her shoulders, wanting to wriggle it off, but she could only endure the burning dish, though soon, luckily, the pain wore off, replaced with a dull, throbbing heat, her cheeks, once again, scarlet with shame and embarrassment. What made everything worse was the way he was stroking her exposed and vulnerable sex, and she couldn't stop herself from growing wetter and wetter-he knew how and where to stroke to elicit such a response, and soon she wanted to cum again, unable to help herself. Had she had movement, she would have begun to rub herself to orgasm, as much as the thought ashamed her. She was hot and needy, and she couldn't cool down with him keeping her aroused. Finally, the plates were removed, and for a minute or two was allowed to rest, her burning sex allowed a few moments to recover before he arrived, standing in front of her, slipping his cock out. She knew what he wanted, and she closed her eyes as he slipped into her. Her head began to bob upon his length like she was a common hooker, her tongue rolling about his massive length as easily as butter. Drool flowed about his shaft as she wrapped her lips tighter about it, bobbing back and forth for a few more seconds before deep throating him. She wanted to gag, but she was unable to, resulting in a hugely uncomfortable feeling of being unable to breathe properly without any way of clearing her throat. Her teeth soon ground gently against his sensitive skin, her drool starting to ooze from her mouth, running down her chin as tears flooded her closed eyes. Would she have to get used to this too? Used as a piece of furniture, a sex toy, a blow job dispenser? She didn't want to think about it, but she was unable to draw her mind away from the act her mouth was performing. She spluttered weakly as he exploded within her mouth, filling it with his thick gooey seed, and in one motion she swallowed the disgusting fluid, her body unable to cough any up- she could feel it oozing down her throat, and she hated it, she hated it, she hated it. His promise of making her cum offered her little comfort. Jack moved behind her, and, whilst she didn't feel it, her pussy dilated. A sudden rush of pain made her jerk- it felt like he'd just rammed his hand into her pussy. He. He was fisting her. Pleasure soon overrode the pain and humiliation, and she quickly spurted all over his fist. She wasn't allowed a break, and her subsequent two orgasms were just as powerful and pleasurable, masking the pain of being harshly fisted. Much like her last orgasms, she remained as still and as silent as a statue as she came, even as her mind exploded in pleasure. She wanted to writhe, collapse, moan-anything. He pulled out, but quickly something else, his finger, was pushing in, this time fucking her cervix. She jerked involuntarily in pleasure and pain, equally mixed, her mind no longer certain if it enjoyed or hated what he was doing, and when she came she drew nowhere near as much intense pleasure, the feeling muted by the pain. She gasped out, stopping suddenly-she could gasp, aloud, properly. Furthermore, she could talk?" I-"She could. She opened her mouth again, deciding to beg. "Please, Jack, don't do this to me! I'm sorry, I made a mistake, we all make mistakes, I don't deserve this, no-one does!" She continued on in a similar vain for a minute or two longer, tears rolling down her cheeks as Jack sat back impassively, not even bothering to respond. Finally, she was silenced again mid-sob, her pleading useless, her mouth cranking open. Her eyes widened in terror as he spoke, using every ounce of will she possessed to jam her mouth closed, unable to snap it down as he approached with the smoldering butt. With a loud hiss and a searing jolt of pain from burning flesh the butt was put out, hot ash sprinkling onto her tongue, her eyes watering in agony as Jack flicked the rest of the ash into her mouth, not caring for how agonizingly painful the burn was, her vision blurring round the edges as she struggled against the searing heat. Jack stood up. He was an angry man, and he intended to do something about it. You're an ungrateful whore, Kelly. Do you have any idea how much those toiletries that went into that lovely bath of yours cost, you're stinking piece of shit? Thousands of fucking dollars, that's how much, Kelly. There's only two ways that a stupid, worthless, piss-drinking slut like you could ever take a bath like that. One is to steal money off of a hard-working citizen like me or a fine institution like our bank. The second is for someone like me out of the generosity of their heart to give a bath like that to a filthy piece of vermin like yourself. And that's what I did, Kelly. That's what I did you disgusting piss-whore. And did you thank me, you ungrateful filthy little street-walker? No you did not. He was working himself into a frenzy now, his eyes bulging, his face crimson with rage. He undid his flies, and got out his half-erect penis. And even worse, Kelly: DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH THIS COCK OF MINE COST? He was screaming at the top of his voice now.IT COST TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND FUCKING DOLLARS, THAT'S HOW FUCKING MUCH. D'ya hear that, Kelly? This cock is a fucking work of art you piss-dog slut. He kicked her hard in the side of her stomach. Her body still locked in the 'table' setting, she fell over on to her side. This cock of mine is a bespoke Thrust master Alpha Plus with every fucking extra feature you can get. And I fucked you with this cock, Kelly. I fucked your dirty little slut whore cunt, and I fucked your dirty little slut whore ass. I even came in your mouth, you're stinking little whore scum piss-dog. It is a fucking privilege for you to be fucked by this cock. A privilege and an honor. This cock made you cum over and over again while you drank your own piss out of your fucking dog bowl. You were privileged, Kelly. But did you thank me? DID YOU FUCKING THANK ME? No you did not. You did not thank me once you ungrateful fucking worm. Jack paused. He was beginning to calm down. And he had an idea. He knew how to punish the whore. You've got a lot to learn, Kelly. A lot to learn. You're going to learn to appreciate me. I've decided to go to Russia for a few days. There's an important deal that we need to clinch there. I was going to get someone else to go, because I wanted to be with you. But now I realise that you don't appreciate me, so I'll go myself. And when I get back, you'll be very relieved. Jack pulled up a number on his roots, and dialed it. The speaker was on full. He wanted Kelly to hear every word of the conversation. A woman's face appeared on the screen.Oh, hello Darling. How is my sweet step-brother? Enjoying your new toy, I hope. Annabelle, sweetheart, I've got a problem. The toy doesn't appreciate me. It needs to be taught a lesson. I'd like you to look after it for a few days while I'm away. Oh Darling, I'd love to help you of course. But may I ask: does it have pretty feet? You know how I love pretty feet, my sweetness. It has exquisite feet, Annabelle. Absolutely exquisite. Darling that's fabulous. And may I play with its feet? You know how I like to play with pretty feet. It wouldn't be nice if I couldn't play, now, would it? You're welcome to play with its feet, just no permanent damage or broken bones. It's owned by the company y'know. Oh Darling, you are no fun at all. You're being cruel to your poor lovely step-sister. How can I have fun if I can't even break its thesis? Annabelle wants to break its sweet little thesis, my love. Umm...okay. Just for you my love. You can break its toes, but nothing else. But Darling, there are so many other bones that are lovely to break too. The clavicular, Darling, the cuneiform bones, the cuboid. Please Darling, don't spoil your sweet little Annabelle's fun. You want me to have fun, don't you? You do love your adorable little step-sister, don't you Jack Darling? Oh Annabelle, you know that I love you. You can break any bones in its feet that you want then. I only ask you not to use the blowtorch on it. That really would do permanent damage.Oh, very well Darling. I won't use the blowtorch. I can still brand its feet though, can't I? Of course, you can my love.Oh, fabulous Darling. Drop it off tomorrow morning then. Noodle-loo. See ya tomorrow, my love. And thank you. A broad grin spread across Jack's mouth. The whore would be wanting him every fucking second that he was away. When he got back she'd be positively fucking overjoyed to set eyes on his cock again. He needed to make arrangements now, get the documents downloaded, liaise with his people in Moscow. Time to get the slut to bed. But he'd better feed her first. There was no way of knowing whether his step-sister would feed Kelly while he was away. Annabelle was...erratic. Jack fetched his Mannefeeder and a cylinder of Doll yum. The Mannefeeder ran on a similar principle to the Mannecleaner, but in reverse. He connected it up to the cylinder, and then got Kelly to kneel, her he'd tilted right back and mouth wide open. Then he inserted the feeding tube, activated her feeding program and turned on the machine. The Doll yum was pumped into her mouth, filling it up; then the swallowing subroutine kicked it, and she began to swallow it at roughly the same rate as it was coming in. He dipped a finger into her mouth and sampled the Doll yum. It had the consistency of single cream, and tasted a bit like gruel-not very nice, but allegedly very nutritious. He pumped in half the cylinder, as per instructions, which took around 10 minutes. Then he put the mannefeeder and the food away. Once he'd done that, Jack started to walk to the bathroom for a pee. Then he changed his mind, and decided to piss in Kelly's mouth. He filled her mouth up almost completely before switching on the feed program. Thought you'd like an extra little drink, you're fucking worthless piss-drinking whore. Then he made her walk with him to his bedroom. There was a sarcophagus on rollers under the bed- it was a replica of an Egyptian original that he'd had customized a little in preparation for Kelly. It was padded inside to Kelly's measurements, and there was almost no spare room at all-she'd be able to breathe shallowly, but little else. Additionally, he'd had a glass panel fitted over her eyes, with a sliding cover. She'd be able to see out if he let her, and he'd be able to look in. Once Kelly was in, he closed the lid- it required some pushing because of the tight fit, and slid the cover over the eye panel. Then he pushed the sarcophagus back under the bed and went off to make the arrangements for his journey, turning off the bedroom light on the way out. Sometime in the middle of the night, Kelly was disturbed by the sarcophagus being moved. The panel slid open. The lights were on again. All she could really see, though, were Jack's eyes, staring fixedly at her with a wild, demented gleam. He stared at her for some minutes. Then the panel went back, and the sarcophagus slid back under the bed. Kelly watched as Jack stood up, shocked as he suddenly started yelling, breathing heavily as he grew angrier and angrier, showing on his face. 'He's mentally unbalanced.' she thought, wanting to cower away from him, her initial unconscious desire. Instead, she was forced to kneel down on all fours, and with a raging man beside her, now thrusting his dick in her face, she felt horribly, horribly vulnerable. A sudden swooping blow to her left side knocked all the wind out of her body, a jolt of pain rushing through her, tears spilling from her eyes as she collapsed to her side. Had the situation been less serious, it would have almost been comical. As it was, the funny side was missed on Kelly, her stomach now fully exposed to Jack, her eyes closed, prepping herself for another strike. Luckily, it didn't come, but another slew of words and insults did. He was mad... egoistic... completely and utterly insane. She could only close her eyes and pray that he would calm down before he caused her any permanent damage. As it happened, he did. His words stopped, and when he spoke up again he was calm- dangerously so. She knew he hadn't calmed down just like that. She didn't know what he meant, and she didn't want to- his last words"And when I get back, you'll be very relieved"did not strike her as being good at all. Then again... who else would be able to hate her that much? She watched as he picked up his phone, dialing a number, a woman's voice quickly filling the room. His stepsister. She rested in silence, listening in to the pair as they talked, the color slowly draining out of her face. Feet... playing... broken toes? Broken bones, branding? His sister-step, sister-sounded just as mad, if not more so, than her stepbrother. She didn't need to look down at her own feet to know what they looked like-slim, petite, always in fine condition-she didn't even like wearing high heels due to the tightness they imposed. She couldn't be left with her-they'd be destroyed! Tears dribbled down her now pale face as Jack returned, grinning. The sick bastard was loving every second of it. She was moving again, quickly sinking into a knelt position, her head thrust back, mouth wide open-anything could be poured down her throat now; water, piss, semen, liquid metal.... her stomach tightened at the thought-he'd never do that, he knew it'd kill her... he knew it would... The fear persisted. A tube was shoved into her open mouth, a slightly thick, tasteless substance, oozing into her mouth and swallowed when her mouth was about to overflow. She closed her eyes, humiliated once more by the procedure-now she couldn't even eat without someone doing it for her. And for the next two years... two years of this... Silent tears dribbled down her cheeks and mixed with her nutrient feed. To finish it all up, he pissed back into her mouth again. That was her dinner, her regular evening meal-thin nutrient gruel and piss. Death never looked so appealing.Finally, she stood up, walking after him back up the stairs, this time to the bedroom, a rather grand looking room, much like the rest of his house. She watched as he rolled something out from a bed, what looked like a coffin, one of the things Egyptian mummies were put in. Surely she wasn't going to sleep in that? Kelly wasn't claustrophobic, but even so, the device looked like it would barely contain her. As it turned out, it did-just. Her heartbeat sped up as she squeezed in, her hands pressed against her sides, unable to shift more than a millimeter or two, a look of terror filling her pretty features as the lid was heaved on, with only a glass panel over her eyes to see out of. That was quickly shut, leaving her in pitch darkness and silence, terror filling her up- she couldn't breathe. She panted, starting to use up all the oxygen, forcing herself to take shallow breaths in the pitch dark, slowly realizing she had air, but only enough for shallow breathing. The realization brought her little comfort-she was still immobile and terrified in her 'coffin'. She'd never be able to sleep... An eternity later with no sleep she felt herself slid out, the cover removed, gazing up into Jack's eyes, his crazed, demented eyes locking into her terrified, pleading ones. What did he want, what did he want? He stared at her for several more minutes before she was slammed into darkness again, her pitiful sobs heard by no-one but herself. Chapter Two: Girls Just Want To Have Fun Jack started early the next morning. He hadn't managed to sort out all of his plans the night before, and he still hadn't read everything that that sent through from the Moscow branch. He would've loved to have seen Annabelle-better yet, he would've loved to have fucked her- but there just wasn't time. The easiest thing would be to get some movers to take Kelly over in her sarcophagus, along with all the other bits and pieces-the Mannecleaner, the Mannefeeder, some cylinders of Doll yum and so on. This was easy to arrange. Within a couple of hours, Kelly's sarcophagus- with Kelly in it- was in the back of a truck along with all the other stuff, being transported to Annabelle's house in Southampton, Long Island. Jack had been sort of sad to see her go, and was already looking forward to having her back in three days time. Little did he know that it would be many weeks before he saw Kelly again. Traffic was bad, and it took another 2 hours for the truck to get there, so it was nearly midday when Kelly arrived in the palatial home of Jack's deeply insane, thoroughgoing depraved half sister. The sarcophagus was taken up into Annabelle's bedroom, which was enormous and decorated entirely in pink. Annabelle had been looking forward to her new toy all morning. She had everything she needed on hand, and as soon as the movers had gone she stripped below her waist and opened the coffin. Ooooh! You are a pretty toy. And look at your precious feet. So perfect, so delicate. I must get you out and on to the bed. Jack had downloaded all the software to Annabelle's roots the night before, and Annabelle had ample experience of playing with mannequins. Kelly got out of the sarcophagus, and lay down at the bottom of the bed, her lower legs and feet unsupported and sticking out. First I will get you ready, my scrumptious little toy. And then we can play. Won't it be nice, us playing together? I so love your feet. Do you like playing with feet? I do. I love playing with feet, and your feet are perfect, so we're going to have lots and lots of fun. Annabelle mannecleaned the plaything thoroughly, and then set about preparing it for her pleasure. First she carefully painted Kelly's toenails and fingernails with bright pink varnish. Then she plaited her hair with pink ribbons, and tied thick pink ribbons around her throat and waist. Finally, she made up Kelly's face-the cheeks were thickly rouged, and she put a thick layer of bright pink lipstick on Kelly's mouth. Don't you love the color pink? I do. It's the loveliest color in all the world. When I see lots of pink things it makes me all girly and excited. I bet it does that for you too, my toy. As if to prove her point, Annabelle giggled girlishly. Then Annabelle went over to the closet and got out the tools that she'd need for this afternoon's fun. There was a flat-headed screwdriver, a cordless electric drill and a small blowtorch. Jackie-poo said no permanent damage, but that was mean and horrible of him. How was little Annabelle to know that the toy would be so pretty? And it's been a very naughty toy too, very, very naughty. It didn't say thank you when Jackie-poo fucked it with his lovely cock. That was a horribly nasty thing for the naughty toy to do. So Annabelle is going to punish the toy. Annabelle is going to have lots and lots of fun with it. Annabelle is going to do whatever she likes. She placed her tools on a small table within easy reach of where Kelly lay. I'm going to turn on your sound now, toy she announced, looking directly at Kelly. That's because I want to hear you scream. It would be lovely if you could do some sweet pretty screams for me. I especially like them very high-pitched, so if you can manage that we'll have lots of girly fun together. You can beg for mercy too if you like-that would be fun too. But don't expect me to give you any. You see... And here she gave another girlish giggle You see I don't have any mercy to give. And how can sweet adorable little Annabelle give you something that she hasn't got? Annabelle lit the blowtorch. I think that we'll begin with the middle one on the left. That's always a lovely toe to start with. She switched off Kelly's vocal control, giving her back the power of speech. Then she began to heat up the head of her screwdriver with the blowtorch. When it was red-hot, she held the middle toe of Kelly's left foot up with one hand, and with the other rammed the red-hot screwdriver under her toenail. She pushed the flat head of the screwdriver in deeply- to the back of the toenail and then into the flesh of the toe. There was a sizzling sound of burning meat; wisps of acrid smoke floated up from the injured toe. Annabelle withdrew the screwdriver quickly, and moved herself so that she straddled Kelly's damaged foot. That was a lovely scream, my toy...that was beautiful. Annabelle rubbed the foot against her wet vagina, running the toes against her vulva and her clitoris, pressing down. Mmmm... That was a lovely scream, but I think that you can do better. Kelly's big and second toes were inside of her sex now. Annabelle thrust with her pelvis, fucking herself with Kelly's foot. Oooh yes... I think that you can do a bigger, higher scream than that. But let's find out, shall we? Annabelle moved herself away from Kelly's foot. Now...for a nice big scream, maybe we should hurt a nice big piggies. The one on the right, I think. And no, I told you that I don't do mercy. But keep on asking anyway-its awfully fun when you do. She RELIT the blowtorch and heated up the head of the screwdriver again. Then she held Kelly's right big toe tightly, while brutally ramming the heated implement under her toenail. This time she didn't withdraw the screwdriver quickly-instead she moved it from side to side, destroying the nail completely and charring the flesh underneath. She only removed the screwdriver when she thought that Kelly would black out from the pain- an unconscious toy would be no fun at all. The stench of burnt flesh now filled the room. Now that was much better, my lovely toy. That was a lovely wonderful scream for Annabelle. She was straddling the right foot now, rubbing it against her sex as before. Once again she used Kelly's foot for her pleasure, inserting the toes into her pussy and fucking herself vigorously with the injured foot. Her juices coated the entire foot now, and ran on to Kelly's ankle. Annabelle moaned with pleasure, and increased the pace of her thrusting. She came noisily and wetly-her spurting liquid reached up as far as Kelly's lower leg. Annabelle smiled, catching her breath. That was awfully fun now, wasn't it? But before I go for lunch, I simply must play a little with a talus. The talus is such a lovely bone, and yours are just the sweetest little taluses that I've ever seen. I could see how sweet they were as soon as I laid eyes on your feet. So I'm going to drill a teensy hole in your talus, my pet. That will be a fun little game for us girls to play. Annabelle picked up the drill, and put it on to the hammer setting. She seized Kelly's right foot with her left hand, and started the drill. She thrust it into Kelly's upper foot, just below the ankle, and bore down with her weight. Blood and fragments of bone were sprayed across Annabelle and the bed as the drill ripped through Kelly's skin and flesh and tore into the talus bone. Annabelle pushed down harder, giving little whoops of glee as she did. She held the drill steady, and soon the bit had gone well into the bone. She stopped pushing, and withdrew the drill. Oooh...wasn't that fun, now? You really must try to scream more, though. Its rather nasty of you to stop screaming like that. Noodle-loo, I'm having my lunch now. We'll start again around 3She glanced at Kelly. The toy had passed out. Well, at least that explained why it had stopped screaming.

[EX] The Mannequin's Tale (Salamander and Jessica)|rating:2.0

From the Darknesss (M)

(M- Sexual Themes, Drugs, Drinking, Crude Humor, Heavy Swearing)I walk along in the night. It's only been a year since I ended up here. The army of the night had been attacking it and nearly over ran the remains of down town Tokyo. I live in Show the underground neighborhood. It's mostly the remains of the old subway tunnels. I walk over and sit on a ruined bench right now the army of the night is on its way. I look at the dark night and shout. "Arena I Summon You!" I shout and one of my Dark comes forth.(Arena's Looks:image.jpg) I sat on her roof, starring out into the darkness. The past couple of years I've spent a lot of time reinforcing the walls of my family's home. I boarded up the windows with wood and bars of steel. My parents instructed me to do so before they went off into war. The house, located just above Show, is decent so it took a bit of time to complete the project. I also spent a lot of time moving the bedrooms into the basement so that we could feel a little bit more comfortable sleeping at night. I let out a sigh as I sit and wait for the first wave of night creatures to come through, knowing that they would first come through the tunnels of the subway. My days consisted of taking care of my sister and reinforcing our home while my nights consisted of fighting anything that dared to set foot on our land, so my body has gotten used to running on little sleep. "Fuck!" I fly through the window of the house above Show and Arena runs in behind me. "Yamato are you okay?" I slowly get up. "Let's finish this." I charge at the giant squid and myself and Hanna look at one another. "Duet of the Swords." Is what we shout as we finish we slowly start down the stairs not worrying about the hose right now. "Are you fucking kidding me?!?" I shout, my voice echoing through the night. I spring to my feet and jump down from the roof, fast walking after the two that just put a hole in my house. "Maybe you are new around here...but no one fucks with my shit." I say harshly, while putting my sword through the heart of another squid. "I will give you one chance to apologize." I add, raising my gun towards the two while kicking the dead squid off of the end of my sword. Hanna rushes her and slams her onto the floor. "Never threaten my summoner." I watch as she puts her blade to the girl neck. "Arena! Enough let's go." I shout and Arena walks over to me. "You should watch yourself little girl." With that we slid down the ladder into the deeper part of Show. I stare up at the blade, a blank expression on my face. "Bitch." I reply, still enraged with anger. After getting up off of the ground I raise my gun and point it at them before shooting, purposely aiming the bullet over Arena's shoulder before they slid down the ladder. "Next time, it'll be your head." I yell as I watch them slip away. A loud roar rang out from above the subway. Without hesitation, I ran back to my house, seeing a large dragon flying towards my house. "I see how this night is going to go." I mumble, shooting at the large dragon to get it to land. I stood in front of my house as the dragon landed in front of me. With two quick shots, I take out both of its eyes before walking towards the beast and putting my sword through its heart. I sighed as I heard my alarm go off. It was the next morning and I head to head up to the surface as I walk up I see Arena come out of her room. "Hey, you ready for a trip to Chosen?" I ask it was not that far from Show, but it was in an old motel complex and was in between an area know as the hazard. There Dark are able to stay in the day. Usually only something Arena can do. "I'll be fine, you know I've got your back." I nodded as we slowly started walking we passed the house and just looked at it as we walked by. I was able to get a little bit more sleep than usual last night, which was much needed now that I would have to fix the hole in the side of my house. "Come on Torn." I motion as we walk outside. I removed all the broken wood and steel bars from the house before I ask for her help. She held the board in place while I began to nail it to the house. As I look over I see the two who made the hole. "Stay here." I say to my sister as I walk towards the sidewalk. "Hey! Are you going to come help me fix this? Considering you did this?" I snap, pointing back at my house. I find it extremely rude that someone could ruin someone's home, accident or not, and not even apologize for the inconvenience. Furthermore, I move behind Arena and hide my face into her Kimono. "Please don't shout at the master he's very shy." I hide my face into her even further. "He's also got Gen phobia, to put it simply any female besides myself scares him." I feel Arena pull me into a tight hug. "It's okay Yamato, she won't even get a chance to hurt you with me here." I watch as she looks at the other girl. "We've got a lot to do today, but we can spare some time just don't speak to Yamato." Arena looks at me and nods I stay very close to her as we move up to help them repair it. I only nod and mutter softly "Hello." to the girl that was shouting at us before. I was completely surprised by both her response. Furthermore, I thought she would reply with the same aggression I addressed them with, and I definitely didn't think that he would be so shy to the point that he was afraid of her. "Oh..." I reply softly as I lead them towards the broken window. "Kari..." Torn called as she looked at me, a worried expression on her face. I approach Torn and nod to her gently, letting her know that she shouldn't be afraid. "They are here to help fix the damage." I explain, looking up at the big hole. The broken window happened to be the largest one on the house. I turn around to face the two of them and notice Yamato speak. I took a small step closer to him, a small smile spreading across my lips. "Hello." I said before my eyes moved back to Arena. "I'm Kari, this is my little sister Torn." I explained, gently grabbing Torn's hand. "I uh... I'm sorry for shooting at you. I just get extremely protective when anyone or anything endangers my sister." "It's the way I am with master Yamato, it is the reason that last night I was as hostile as I was to you." Arena begins to use her powers to put the glass into it's place again. I only stand behind her. It doesn't take to long until it's done. Once it is, I tug on her shirt and she nods. "Well, we've got a busy day we've got a long trip across Hazard to make." I slowly walk out and Arena follows me. Torn stood there watching him fix the window without even touching it. "I wish I could do that!" She said with excitement. I look over at the two of them and let out a laugh of disbelief. "Yeah...no kidding." I mumbled as I look back at the perfectly fixed window. "That would have taken us all day. Thank you." I said, my thoughts traveling at a million miles per hour. "You two be safe, please. See you later." I said with a wave before turning back to Torn. "Can they teach me how to do that?" Torn asked with a laugh and I laugh with her. It all makes sense now...summoner... I think back to how she was referring to him. Before I was just too pissed off to pay attention to what she was calling him. It didn't take that long to do what we needed it was only about noon when we got back and there is the girl and her sister on a bench near the water fountain that sits in an old remains of a park that's close to Shock. Now that I most of the day free, I decide to have some fun and take Torn to the park. We sat on the bench chatting for a while before I turn to her, a big grin on my face. "I'll race you to the swings." I say as I watch her face light up. We are both competitive with one another, and I really enjoy pushing my little sister to work hard. "Ready, set, go!" Torn yelled as we both began to sprint across the park towards the swings. I challenged her the entire way but let her win at the last minute. "You're speedy." I say in between breaths and plop down on a swing, as I look up I see couple form earlier and wave at them. I slowly walk over and sit on the edge of the fiction I lightly nod at them. Arena sits down next to me as I pull out our takeout bag of McDonald. The world is slowly rebuilding itself. I don't mind it too much food is getting easier to find, but a lot of people don't know about the technology we've found again. Of course, it just is what it is I guess. Torn began swinging on the swing before jumping off and walking towards Yamato. "How did you fix our window without even touching it?" She asked as she looked up at him. I ran a hand through my hair and let out a sigh as I follow my little sister towards them. I stood behind her and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, Torn's eyes not leaving Yamato. "It's just one of my ability as a summoner." Said quietly I saw Arena watching closely but not stopping the conversation. "Why, do you want to learn how to do that?" I ask still talking softly. Torn's eyes grew wide as she looked at him. "Y-yes. You can teach me?" She asked in disbelief. I had a hard time believing it myself. "That is something that you can teach?" I had to ask myself, feeling very confused at the moment. The two of us were now starring at him eagerly. "Yes and No." I think about how to word this. "All people have a spark in them to become a summoner. Yamato is the only one alive today. If you did prove that you had the ability I'm sure he'd teach you. Though it takes giving up everything and waking a path with only each other, myself and Yamato." I watch as Arena looks at them. "This isn't some game we're trying to save the planet and the human race. Do you understand? This is a path once started it must be walked until the end." I slowly stand behind Arena. "What's your choice." I slid further behind Arena once more. I look down at my little sister and I start to become nervous. Furthermore, I don't want her to commit her life to something while she is so young. She has barely experienced childhood. However, this could save the planet. I kneel down next to Torn and grab her gently, looking into her eyes. "I know you aren't a quitter, but this is a big deal. Do you understand that?" I ask. Torn nodded and looked back up at them. "I want to help." Torn said. "If that is your choice. Take Yamato's hands." I feel Arena slid behind me and hug me as the girls take my hands. Then we fly off we fly until we reach the tower. A place that was made to turn the sparks into fires. We land at the top and I look at them. "We need to fight our way down." I point towards a small room. "There should be some train robes in there." I slowly draw my blade and check it. Soon the girls return. "Are you ready?" Arena ask drawing her own weapon. The girls took his hand nervously and looked around the tower once they arrived. I took Taro to get changed and returned to them. "You're going to be fine." I assure Taro who nods at me, determination in her eyes. I smile and look back at them. "We are ready." I answer. Taro is much better with a sword than I was at her age, so I have a lot of faith in her. I'm also confident in my own abilities, but I have no idea what kinds of things we will be faced with in this tower. I slowly lead them inside. The tower is something beyond understanding, it's got served Eco systems inside and many Dark. "The idea is for you to find a Dark that you can bond with. Don't rush into it. This is the only level where they are peaceful." I watch Arena talk and just quietly stare at her. "Find me or Master Yamato when you've bonded with your Dark." I don't listen as I see a butterfly and wander off to follow it. I always liked peaceful creatures and butterflies are so calming. Furthermore, I follow it for a while then find a fallen tree to sit on. This floor isn't too big, it's a small Samurai forest. I watch as cherry blossoms fall around it's so beautiful. I couldn't help but smile as I watch Yamato begin to focus on the butterfly. Taro smiled and ran off into the room. I stood still for a moment, scanning the room. "Okay...find a good bond. How am I supposed to do that in a few minutes?" I ask out loud as I walk past people. Torn ran up to me moments later with what seemed to be the largest man in the room. "I like him! He is big and scary, but he likes to play hide and seek...and he reminds me of dad." She said happily as the strong man picked her up and tossed her into the air before catching her. Torn smiled in his arms and looked at me. I couldn't help but smile back, seeing how happy she is. A big strong guy could be very helpful when protecting my sister...and the world I suppose. Well I guess it would be helpful to have someone with a long range weapon. I walked up to a girl who was very similar to me in size and shape, seeing she had a bow resting on her back. "He looks like a dumb ass, but he isn't, the girl made a very good decision." The girl stated with a devious smile. I couldn't help but smile back as I shook hands with her. Her sense of humor was right up my alley. "I believe I just made my decision." I stated, the four of us walking back to Yamato and Arena. "Yamato stop chasing the damn butterfly and get your ass over here!" I hear Hanna shout and see Kenji as well as Sakura. "Kenji and Sakura, Sakura almost ended up being my bounder, but I was afraid when she was so pushy to make the contract." I say softly as I pull out my sketchbook and draw the butterfly that's resting on the hilt of my sword. "Anyway, you'd best make a contract, both of you take your Dark's hand with yours and repeat this." I cut Arena off. "With this Dark I give my word to protect the weak and sinless, as well as showing respect to my fellow summoners their Dark while cleaning the Dark threat and restoring the balance." I look at them and wait for them to repeat the oath. I couldn't help but laugh at his statement about her new bounder. "You're pushy...we have that in common." I said while looking at Sakura. She nods back at me with a smile. We both grab their hands as we were instructed to do and repeat after Yamato. Kenji smiled down at Torn and whispered something in her ear which causes Torn to grin from ear to ear. I looked down at her and raise a brow. "What are you so happy about dork?" I ask, naturally smiling back. "Kenji thinks you're pretty." She said with a giggled. I look up at him and blush softly before looking back at the ground. "So......what's next?" I ask as Sakura starts to laugh at me. "Arena?" I ask quietly trying not to laugh a bit at them as Kenji whispers into Torn's ear and then her sister's face lights up red. "Well, for now I think they should practice inside the tower, at least here if they get hurt their Dark can use their powers to heal them." I nod. "Well, that means go down the levels and beat the hell out of any wild Dark you see after this floor they're all bad Dark on a morale scale that is." I slowly lead the way as Arena grabs a torch then lights it and passes it to me. "Come on follow us!" I hear Arena shout as we start down the stairs. The redness in my cheeks finally start to go away as we follow them down the stairs. I smile down at Torn as we do our handshake that we created a few years back. "Show them what you're made of T." I encourage while walking down the stairs. Torn nods up at me as we all exit the staircase. I took a deep breath and quickly glance back at our Dark before looking back at the floor, wondering what kind of things would be attacking us here. I and Arena just slowly drift away to make sure they learn to deal with things on their own. (You can pretty much have anything jump out at them if you want.) Torn moved one way while I moved the other, our Dark following us. This floor wasn't too bad. Most of the creatures that attacked us were fairly small and weren't very quick. There were mostly rodents and smaller animals like coyotes, king crabs, small bears, etc. Torn even fought them with ease. Once the enemies stopped coming we returned to Arena and Yamato. I knew that they would only get more difficult as we went on. "How many levels are there?" I asked and quickly glanced down at my sister just to double-check that she was okay. "Seven." I say in a clear voice this time then myself and Arena smash a window and get ready to jump. "Meet us outside once you're done, if it takes a few days there are camps inside with food and Dark can't get into them." I look as we jump and shout. "We're coming back in after four days!" I shout as Arena grabs me, and we slowly drift towards the ground. It took us a little over three days to make it to the bottom of the tower, the floors getting more difficult as we went on just like I thought they would. After traveling down about five floors I could see how exhausted Torn was getting. It took a lot of pep talks from all of us to keep her going, but she did it. We each had a few bad wounds but our Dark were able to heal us pretty fast. As we made our way down we all bonded a lot more than I thought we would. Sakura became the best friend I've always wanted. Kenji was very sweet to my little sister and definitely made me blush here and there. On the last floor we encountered creatures that I've never even heard of or seen. I still don't know what kind of creatures they are. One of them was able to become completely invisible. Another one would excrete a vaporous poison every time we hit it with our swords, which was a pain in the ass to kill. Once the enemies stopped coming, Torn nearly collapsed from exhaustion. I was almost at that point as well. My legs were trembling as I exited the tower. Torn lie in Kenji's arms, her eyes barely open. "Well you look like you could use a rest." I state as we slowly walk towards them. "Perhaps a hot spring or a beach trip?" I ask looking at them smiling. Torn's head popped up when she heard talk of a beach. "A beach!" She yelled, her body remaining motionless. I couldn't help but laugh and gently kiss her forehead as she rested in his arms. "That would be wonderful." I add. "Follow me." I walked into an elevator and hit the lowest button as they all enter the elevator It grows a bit larger. As we reach the bottom floor the doors slid open to reveal a beach. "Welcome to the realm of the Shaun, it's the breed of Dark that our bounders cmd from, though now it's pretty much empty. Enjoy the beach there is also a hot spring, festival area, food court, mall, hotel, training ground and a library filled with everything we know about the Dark." I add as I throw off my robes and there is a pair of swim trucks underneath and Arena throws off hers and there's a bikini under it. I rush IFF into the hot springs area followed by Arena. We all gladly follow him, excited about the much-needed time to relax. "This is insane..." I state, in awe of the place. Torn was now very alert, looking around at everything. "Can we go buy new swimsuits from the mall and then go to the beach?" She asked, excitement in her voice. I laugh and smile over at her. "Yes...yes we can." I reply as I gently grab her from Kenji's arms. "We will be right back." I said before we headed into the mall. Not too long later we return to the beach. I purchased a black and purple bikini for myself and a yellow tanking for Torn. We laid our towels down on the sand before heading towards the water to join everyone. "Yamato." I hear Arena's voice shortly after we get into the hot springs. "Yes Arena?" I ask not moving from my spot or looking up at her. "You made the right call when you let them join us." I open one eye to look at her. "I always made a good choice." She looked at me and laughed. "Oh yea like that night in Hang when w-" I open my other eye. "Let's not relive that night." I see her face she a little sad about my reaction but lets it go. Hang had been a bad mistake. She and I had both been drunk... that's about all I'll say on the matter. I scoop Torn up into my arms as we walk into the water. Once I was about waist deep a flash a devious smile and dropped her, the water splashing around her. Torn emerged from the water and laughed before tackling me from behind. "Makes me want a little sister." Sakura said with a laugh as she and Kenji walked towards them. "Easy girls... I can't have either of my princesses getting hurt." Kenji stated with a smile. Sakura burst out laughing. "Ew...gag me." She said before going underwater. I couldn't help but laugh at his statement as well. "Still a flirt Kenji?" I ask running up and tackling him push him underwater while Arena laughs as she tackles Sakura into the water. "He likes you, he likes you!" Torn teased while everyone else was underwater. I rolled my eyes as I looked over at her. "Oh, whatever!" I shout, splashing water at her. It was strange to be getting any sort of attention from a guy. The past couple years of my life have been dedicated to protecting my sister, there was no time for anything else. "Well n-" Kenji tried to explain once they all emerged but was quickly cut off by Sakura. "Yes!" She yelled, throwing her arms up into the air. "Should have seen him the entire way down the damn tower. He was like a love sick puppy dog. I haven't seen him this wound up in a long time." She added. I slowly started to submerge myself underwater as she spoke, thinking that if I move slow enough no one will notice then I will be gone and not have to embarrass myself by blushing in front of everyone. "I could have guessed it." I hear Arena laugh behind me. "As for you Yamato, I haven't seen you this outgoing in years." I splash Arena then tackle her under the water and we both come up laughing. "Well I think that it's sweet that Kenji has a girlfriend." I add as both me and Arena start to back up towards the shore. Once I felt the redness leave my cheeks I pop up from under the water in time to hear Yamato's comment. "He has a Hamm?" I asked quickly, all my words running together into mush. "Come on my lady, my vicious lady, and my little lady. We should all get something to eat." Kenji said, looking from me to Sakura to Torn. Torn giggled and grabbed my hand as we all walked out of the water. As I crash down onto a towel I wave as they leave for the mall area. "Hey pick up something fancy like a Yucatán or two, we're going to a festival tonight!" I shout as Arena lifts my head and sets it on her lap as I fall asleep. "Hm, you truly are my one and only master, Yamato." I barely hear her and see her smile before I fall asleep. "Ugh, this means I have to get dressed up?" I asked with a sigh. "I know how you feel. But don't worry, it will only be for a night." Sakura assured while rolling her eyes. I don't know the last time I wore a Yucatán. Probably when I was a little girl. "I like dressing up!" Torn said happily as we headed towards the mall. Kenji smiled and happily picked her up in his arms as they began to look from something to wear tonight. It was about half an hour later I work up and saw Arena still there but now dressed in a Yucatán. "There's a male sized and styled kimono in the shack for you." I looked up, and we were in the mall I went in and got changed. (Yamato's outfit:images.jpg) "You look great Yamato." I smile as I take her hand, and we start towards the festival grounds. "We're meeting them there?" I ask looking at her. "Yes, they said they wanted to surprise you when we arrived." I nod wondering what they've got in mind. Torn had no problem picking out something that she would enjoy wearing. Myself and Sakura on the other hand, not so much. After shopping, I took the girls to a nearby salon to get our hair and make-up done. Kenji went off to shop for himself while we did so. Lastly, we stopped and picked up gifts for Arena and Yamato before heading to the festival. I decided on an electric blue Yucatán with while flowers, Sakura decided on a deep purple Yucatán with black flowers, and Torn decided on a light blue Yucatán with yellow flowers. We all got our hair straightened for the event. Kenji complimented us all as we headed towards the festival, meeting up with them. "We got you both a present, to thank you for accepting us." I explained, handing them each a box. Inside Arena's was a locket encased with diamonds. On the inside was a picture of Yamato with an engraving that said 'I will always protect you.' For Yamato was a gold watch that had a video playing on loop in the face of the watch. The video was one of a butterfly flying, just like the one he was watching earlier. I pull both girls into a hug. "Thank you." I see Arena put it on as I slid my watch on. "Alright, so you want to walk the festival together or should I let you and your Dark enjoy it together?" I ask winking a Kenji. Kenji smiled and ran a hand through his hair. "We can walk together for a while then if we want to explore on our own, we can." He stated, gently nodding to thank Yamato. I shrug as I look around at everyone. "Yeah, that sounds good to me." I said, excited to see all that this festival had in store. I locked my arm with Arena. "Let's go shall we?" I ask smiling. "I think that's a great idea, let's spend some time together then break off for a bit and meet up?" I hear Arena lay out a plan for us to do. "That sounds great, Torn want a piggyback?" I offer her smiling. I can't believe that this is happening Arena is the first person I've ever opened up to but now Kenji, Sakura, Torn and her sister have manged to get under my skin and become friends I think that's the right word for someone you can trust and care for. Torn smiled up at him. "Yes!" She yelled as she ran towards him. I couldn't help but laugh as Kenji wrapped an arm around me. "Well thanks guys. Now I'm lonely." Sakura joked as she smiled at me and Kenji. I laughed again and shrugged. "I'm sorry." I said as we walked together. "Do they have cotton candy here?" Torn asked with a smile as she held onto Yamato. "More than likely." I spot something even better. "Hey Torn ever try squid covered in stake sauce?" I ask tilting my head up just enough to see her face. I notice Arena smile as she goes off to grab boxed sushi I smile as I see Kenji trying to impress Sakura Torn's sister at the strength tester. (Okay I totally forget Torn's elder sister's name. Little help. :P) (Lol it's Kari) Torn shook her head as she held onto him. "No, what's it like?" She asked. I smile while watching Kenji test his strength, nearly breaking the machine. "Take it easy there hulk." I tease while looking up at Kenji. He smiled back at me and gently took my hand. "Oh, don't worry beautiful. I can be gentle." He stated. I laugh and shake my head as we continue walking. I've grown to like his forward, cheesy way of flirting. Here with everyone, this is the first time that I've been able to relax and let go of all of my responsibilities. It was nice for once. I smile as I walk over and get to and throw some money onto the counter. I hear him tell thanks and come again as I hand one up to Torn while setting her on a bench and taking a seat. "Try it." I got both of us two and two for Arena who comes over with boxed sushi for me and her. "I got you your favorite." I smile finishing the squid on a stick. "Here, I got you some." I pass her squid to her and take my Sushi. "Enjoying yourself Torn?" I ask looking at her sitting next to me. Kenji smiled and got some sushi for me and Sakura. I sat down on the bench with the two and began eating. Torn smiled and nodded. "Yes, thank you! This is yummy." She said excitedly, finessing it relatively quick. I scarf down my own sushi before letting out a loud burp. "Oops..." I said with a giggle. I'm so used to being at home where I never have to worry about who hears me burp. Sakura started laughing and nudged me gently. "Such a lady!" She said. I looked over at Kenji, smiling widely at me. "Ugh, you just keep getting better." He said with a laugh. "You know Kenji, I bet I can beat you at most of the games here." I smile at him a bit and hear Arena sigh. "Here they go..." I look at Kenji. "Loser has to do one thing for everyone here before the end of the night." I smile I didn't know it but Arena slipped Sake into my Sushi. "Louis...challenge accepted." Kenji said, his voice stern but a smile remains on his face. Sakura let out a sigh. "Boys will be boys I suppose." She said. I laugh and look at the girls. "So, this is a common thing?" I ask. Sakura nods. "Sadly, yes." She said. Torn smiled and snatched some of my sushi. "I think it will be fun to watch!" She enthused. And so about thirty minutes later me and Kenji have done every game... but one... and we're tied at fifteen to fifteen I look at Torn, Sakura, Arena and Kari who now all of a gift from each of us. "Kenji how do we settle this?" I ask Kenji. "Hey, Sara, Torn, Kari look I've got an idea on how to break the tie..." I she her point to sign that says 'Annual miss Yucatán contest.' My eyes fly wide, and I look at Kenji and shout. "Run!" We both take off in different directions. Kenji getting chased by Kari and Sakura, myself by Fauna and Torn. I can tell what their idea is by the look in their face and the ropes. The girls bust out laughing while chasing the guys down. Sakura and I have a hard time holding the large Kenji still but we somehow manage to do so, I think he let us. "Please please please! It would be so funny if you both entered! You guys said you would compete in everything here...and I do believe that is part of everything!" I shout, trying to contain my laughter. Sakura was near tears. "The thought of you in a Yucatán!" She laughed, trying to catch her breath. Kenji rolled his eyes as he looked down at us. "The only way I'm doing this is if one of you two join me." He stated, Sakura immediately pointing at me. "Oh come on!" I yell. Torn sprinted after Yamato before catching up to him and jumping on his back. "Oh please do it! I want to get you all pretty so you can win!" Torn enthused while clamped onto his back. "Kenji is too big to be a pretty lady, you will win." She said, her devilish child mind trying to trick him for her own benefits. I slid behind a vendor and trip Arena into my arms. "You both realize I'm only doing this because Torn asked." I state and Arena nods. "If I find a photo of this somewhere later I'm going to get you backhand." I look at her, and she nods as we walk over to meet up with Kenji and the others. "What big man they caught you?" I ask looking at Arena who's smiling. "Everyone's doing this." I add and Arena tries to bolt this time I caught her by her collar. "Where the Fuck you think you're going?" I ask pull her into a bear hug. "All of us?" Sakura asked, a shocked expression on her face. "No, you're crazy. I'm barely happy with the fact that I'm wearing this, and you want me to go parade around like some dumb bitch?" She asked with a sarcastic laugh. I let out a sigh as I have a hard time believing what is about to come out of my mouth. "You know, it won't be that bad...and it will only be for like an hour or so." I said, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Besides, if you are really unhappy with this you can go on stage and just mock all the girls that are taking it seriously." I said with a laugh. Some Time Later... I slowly walk back, so far three different guys tried to ask me out. I'm going to kill someone before the nights over. As I slowly head towards them, I try not to laugh at Kenji. "Oh wow you actually did it." I state coming to a stop looking at them. Spoiler: Yamato image.jpg The girls all returned together, more glamorous than before. "We are never going to talk about this night again. Do I make myself clear?" Kenji asked with a blank expression. I couldn't help but laugh as I reached up, gently touching his wig. "Oh come on, but you look so pretty." I teased, Sakura laughing with me. Every time Sakura looked at either of the guys she busted out laughing. "Let's just get though this, the MC gave me the list, supposedly it's only the six of us plus four other girls." I add, my voice sounding like a girl. At the moment, I was a girl because Arena had used the powers on me. I wasn't happy, but it did make is somewhat easier for me to deal with it, though it was a bit scary because I enjoyed the guys hitting on me. I think Arena didn't tell me about the side effects. Furthermore, I hope I can get changed back to normal. "That's it?" I asked, looking down at the list. "Our chances are looking pretty good." I added. Sakura let out a heavy sigh. "So I only have four other girls to make fun of? Well that's lame as hell!" She yelled. I laugh at her comment and glance up at Kenji who still had a neutral expression on his face. "Oh...cheer up." I said, gently holding his hand. His entire face lit up as he looked down at my hand inside of his. Torn smiled, looking up at Yamato. "You look pretty." She said. "Don't push it." I pat her on the head as we make our way for the stage. The show begins, and the other four girls have dropped out, and now it's the last round, and it's me and Kenji. The last few rounds I'd tried to get voted out, but one of the girls made it so they did worse so It looked like I was just shy and anxious. Sad to say the crowd ate it up so now myself and Kenji are the last to, and we need to go out and speak about ourselves. I look at Kenji who heads out on stage. "Well miss, this whole time you've been called by a number what's your name?" I watch as the MC asks his questions and only hope Kenji wins, so I don't have to live with that in my mind for the rest of my life. The girls were both shocked and very entertained that the guys were the ones competing in the final round. I sat with all of them, watching from backstage as the questions began to roll. Kenji strutted out onto the stage and prepared himself for the first question. "Oh, no. My name really is five." He joked, in his best girl voice. His hopes were to make corny jokes, but the crowd seemed the love that one. He cursed at himself in his head. "My name is Kari." He said. My jaw nearly hit the floor when he used my name. "He did not...." I say. Some Time Later... I sigh as they get ready to announce the winner. I only hope it's not me. "And the winner is Mrs. Yuki Amato!" I almost run off the stage in fear, but I force myself to walk out on stage. I see all the guys in the audience and then Arena taping it as the MC walks over and hands me the trophy. After served photos myself and everyone else is high up in the festival grounds overlooking it. We're all dressed normally and waiting for the fireworks to start. "Well, that was fun." I sigh listing to Arena. "Right, Yuki?" I flip the finger at Arena and she laughs. As they announced the winner, a huge smile spread across Kenji's face. Most people in the audience were confused as to why he looked so happy. I couldn't contain my laughter, neither could the rest of the girls. When we all met back up, Kenji was still smiling. "That is one thing that I am proud to lose!" He said with laugh. Torn ran to Yamato and gave him a hug. "Even though I wanted to win, I'm glad you did." She said. "At the very least, we've got something fun to remember about tonight." Pull Torn into a hug and Arena who I steal the tape from. "Anyway shut it the fireworks are about to start." I add as the first few starts to fly into the sky and go off. I smiled down at Torn as she runs towards me. "I like our new family." She said. I couldn't help but smile at her words. "Me too." I replied as I look up at the fireworks. It was true, we basically found ourselves a new family, something we have been missing for far too long. Kenji wrapped his arm around my waist as we watched the fireworks launch into the air. I watch everyone quietly as I think. "Hey I've got an idea." I add as an evil grin crosses my face. "Home about a little more fun before the nights over. Anyone up for a test of courage?" I ask smiling at everyone. Tomorrow begins our task of rebuilding the balance why not have some fun while we can is all I'm thinking. I raise a brow as I see the evil grin on his face. "I can't decide if I'm more intrigued...or more worried because of the look on your face." I say with a laugh as Kenji hugs me. Sakura smiled and nodded. "You know I'm always up for a challenge." She said, tickling Torn's sides. Torn laughed and squirmed away from her. "I like fun!" She said. "Grab a partner!" I shout as I grab Arena by the shoulder and bring her close to me everyone is with their Dark. I smile I actually know a fairly good place outside the areas where the Dark live. "Follow me." I slowly walk along the path that goes down by the beach to the murky cave. "Rules are simple. Lose your partner you lose, faint you lose, scream you lose, cry you lose, make it to the end without losing, and you win, you're allowed to scare the other teams, oh and watch out this cave is known for the dead Dark that haunt it." I smile, this cave was one of the creepiest places there was. "MMM..." I say, slowly walking closer to Sakura. "No offense Kenji, but Sakura isn't afraid of anything. So I'm going to stick with her." I teased. Sakura laughed and linked arms with me. "She basically called you a little bitch." She said. Kenji laughed and shook his head. "Okay, I see how it is. Come on Torn." He said, picking her up in his arms. I looked up at Yamato with a nod, to let him know we were ready. I couldn't help but feel slightly nervous, not entirely sure what to expect from the dark cave, so I just began to think of the worst. "Ready!" Torn yelled. "Arena if you'd be so kind." I looked over at her as she pulled out her sword and stuck it in the ground, and it fell out from under us. We fell for a moment before we hit a slid that swirled around and around. Soon we all were split into different slides myself and Arena in one, Sakura and (Forget her name again lol :P) in another, then Kenji and Torn in the last. Soon myself and Arena are plopped out into a chamber that's beginning to fill with water. "You just had to make one of the starting areas a death trap didn't you?" She laughed as I thought about this trap, I had set a way to turn it off, and it was in the room. The other two chambers were one full of slime monsters that loved to bind their guest and not let them leave. The other one showed your most hated memories. "Look for the brick that stops it." I state as myself and Arena waded though the water and start pressing bricks. (Lol Kari.) I was definitely not ready for what was in front of me. After falling with Sakura we were in the room with my most hated memories. I looked around the empty room, wondering what was going to happen. All of a sudden I was reliving the day that my parents had to leave. The first night our house was attacked. Sakura gasped as she watched it all happening, pulling me into a hug. I became numb as I tried to avoid watching. Tora and Kenji fell into the slime monster room. A smile spread across Torn's face as she drew her sword. "Let's kill these jello monsters!" She said, attacking one. Kenji couldn't help but laugh as he fought with her. "Found it!" I hear as she pushes one and spikes pop out of the roof, and it comes down towards us. "No I did!" I shout as I hit another one and everything stops and the doors lids open. "Let's go!" (From here on out you can throw whatever you wish at the other two.) I run towards the stairs that go up to the next floor. I closed my eyes hard as the memory finally stops. My first thought was that I hope Torn didn't have to go through that. Sakura looked at me, sadness written all over her face. "Are you okay? I'm so sorry!" She said. I shook my head and hugged her back. "Yes, I will be okay." I said, a door sliding open in front of us. We then entered a room that had demonic wolves charging after us. Tora and Kenji really enjoyed fighting the "jello monster" mainly because Torn was giggling the entire time she fought them. Kenji was near tears as they took down the last one. A door opened, and they entered a room with spiked walls. A bloody ghost appeared in front of them, warning them that the walls would begin to cave in. Torn cringed slightly and looked up at Kenji. "Be careful of the spikes, we have to find the switch." He said as he began to press bricks and wiggle the spikes. As we reach the next floor it's a team challenge, we'd need the others to get up here I see the 'beware of squid.' sign and my face goes blank. "Well shit." I feel something around my leg and then my worlds upside down. "Shit Arena run." But it's too late the squid has Arena caught now to in is tickling her and swinging me around. "Fuck, stop tickling me!" Haruna shouts as the squid continues I'd forgotten that Arena hated it when anyone or anything besides me touched her. Sakura and I made it to the team floor first. We ran in, seeing them both being tortured by the squid. My first reaction was to laugh. "I'm sorry! This is just funny!" I said, trying to catch my breath from laughing as the squid picked me up as well. "Mother FM...." I said, still laughing as I was whipped around. Torn and Kenji entered the chaos, they both laughed as well. "What the hell do we do?" Kenji asked as it began tickling me, making me laugh even harder. "Tickle the bitch back!" I yelled. Sakura rolled her eyes. "Are you kidding me? Tickle it back? You're an idiot." She said. Torn ran towards the squid and began to tickle it causing it to let us all go. As I fell to the ground, Kenji caught me. "Oh, thank you." I said with a smile. "Hell yea, now I can fight." I run up the back of it and when I reach the top I give a swift knock out kick to it before myself and Arena rush off up the stairs into the maze of mirrors and rush though it's trying to find our way. "Hey! Come back!" Torn laughed as she ran after them, Kenji following. Sakura and I ran after them all, Sakura immediately running into a mirror. I busted out laughing as we made our way through the maze, running into some mirrors myself. "This is torture!" Kenji yelled. We could all hear a loud thud as his large frame ran into many mirrors. A Few Hours Later... I fall onto a bed in our room. I'd brought them back to the Kamil, a mobile base it was short of like a tank with rooms within it. The others had there rooms with their Dark and myself and Arena had one as well. I slowly climb onto the top bunk as I get off Arenas. "God tomorrow begins our work." I state to Arena who is changing for bed. The Kamil was parked in the ruins of a store so we'd be fine for the night, to wild Dark the Kamil isn't able to be seen, but they area bled to sense that something is where it is and go around it. "Kari..." Torn called as she walked towards me in her pajamas. I turned to face her with a smile. "Yes?" I asked, picking her up in my arms. "Can you tuck me in?" She asked with a yawn. I laugh softly before taking her into her room and tucking her into bed. Within a few minutes she was already asleep. I knew she was going to sleep well tonight. I walk back out to Arena while yawning. "What's the plan for tomorrow?" I ask curiously. "We'll probably start hunting down rouge Dark." I call down from my bunk as I try not to fall asleep. "Yea pretty much it'll get pretty rough so be ready." I near Arena state as she flicks off the lights and I drift off to sleep. Arena slowly climbs into bed as I roll over. "Goodnight Karim." I hear Arena as I finial fall asleep. Kenji hugged me tight before heading into his room. I said my goodnight to everyone before heading into my room with Sakura. "Are you sure you're okay after what happened in the cave today?" She asked as she laid down for bed. I let out a sigh and pull the covers over my body. "Yeah, I'll be okay." I replied as I close my eyes, trying not to think about it all. Sakura fell asleep quickly. I was up for some time before finally going to sleep. Next Moving... I slowly sharpen and Polish my blade as Arena drives the Kayo along. I hit the intercom and play the recording of a wake-up bugle. "Up en' at em' you bunch! Meet me in the front for breakfast!" I shout as I use my connection with Arena to finish the pancakes, eggs and bacon then clear the newspapers off the table. Torn sprung out of bed at the sound of his voice. She quickly got dressed and ran out to Yamato nearly tackling him with a hug. "Good morning!" She yelled. Sakura and I let out a groan as we were being woken up. "You get up, and then I'll get up." Sakura said. I smirked at her and kicked her underneath the blankets, her body falling to the floor. "Morning." I said with a laugh while she flipped me the bird. "Fuck off." She said with a laugh. I changed clothes and headed towards the table to greet everyone. "Food is on the stove plates and fork sect as well, we'll be at the I Union soon." The I Union controlled most of the form Tokyo to Osaka if we want to overthrow the Dark we'll need them. I've got a strong feeling they'll help though. I fixed a plate for Torn and then for myself and joined everyone at the table. Furthermore, I ate my food quickly, anxious to start our journey of helping other people and hopefully stopping the Dark altogether. Furthermore, I feel more determined today than I have in a very long time. "Ready when you are boss." I said with a nod towards Yamato. "Before I forget either of you even know anything about the outside world?" I look at them as I sit check over my notes one more time. Torn looked up at me before I looked back at him. "A little, not really. It'd probably help if you explained." I answered as Torn crawled up into my lap. "Be careful you never know when a rouge Dark will show up or if a person is truly a good person." I state slowly was we get to the capital city of Died. As I slowly walk down I see where in the main part of it where the government lies right in the port and in front of us stands Dani the capital building. I nodded and looked down at Torn. "Do you understand?" I asked, gently hugging her. "Yes Kari." She said and hugged me back. I was feeling a bit nervous about today, unsure of exactly what to expect. "Follow close behind the I are a careful people." I add as I am led into the deeper parts of the building by an escort. I follow quietly, the grand council more than likely has changed in the past three hundred years. (Plot Device Alert :P) (Ohhhh!) I nodded and we all follow silently. I look over at Torn and notice a worried look on her face. Furthermore, I gently place a hand on her shoulder and nod to her, letting her know that everything would be alright and that she shouldn't worry. Furthermore, I feel the ground rumble and look at the girls. "Get back!" I shout, but it's not fast enough, both their Dark get pulled into the beast that comes out of the ground. I watch in horror as it slashes at me and Arena saves me. Furthermore, I grab Arena as she falls, bleeding in my arms. "I'm glad to have lived at your side master." I feel her hand on my face as she pulls me down and kisses me. "Now, take my power and return to your place as Dark king or should I say, Devil of Shadows." I feel my strength return and my true nature as well. I look at the Dark in front of us, it's all the other Dark, but I feel Kenji and Samurai inside me as well as Arena I let lose and grow into my Dragon form and as my wings burst out I roar. "Torn, get onto my back, your sister needs to get on as well, it's what Samurai and Kenji's last wish is, for me to protect you, they say even though it's been short that it's been an honor to sever alongside not only the Devil of Shadows, but to wonderful girls as well." I wait for them to get on. I grab Torn immediately and try to shield her eyes from everything that just happened. Furthermore, I could feel her shaking in my arms. Furthermore, I look up at him, horror written all over my face. "Okay." I reply softly and climb onto his back with my little sister. All I could do was comfort Torn after seeing how upset she becomes. I wanted to cry with her but knew that I needed to keep it together for the two of us. "It's going to be okay." I whisper while holding her close to me. The two of us were both very shocked to see him in his true form. There was so much we didn't know about this world. I held onto his back with one hand and Torn in the other, hoping that this battle would be over very soon and that we would all make it out alive. I drive my claws deep into the beast and start to tear out its souls but by bit. "Brothers, Father, Lords of the realms, release your selves!" I shout and the souls unbound. I watch as they do and as they return to my realm. Furthermore, I see the last dark soul. A rotten seed. "Well, that was fast." I walk over and eat the soul. Then the gates to the other realms open and the other realm lords come forth all the gods, my brothers and sites Devil's and my father Lucifer. "Well Devil of Shadows, the world is in balance, and it's fixing itself as we speak. But you must return home and chose what becomes of them." I look to the girls and slid them off of me as I open a portal to my realm. "Girls, I lay before up a choice. Come with me and be reunited with your Dark, or go home and forget all this." I add looking at them. I looked down at Torn and ran a hand through her hair. "What do you think kiddo?" I asked. She looked up at me and a smile spread across her face. "I want to stay with them." She said softly. I smile back at her with a nod. All I wanted was to protect my sister and keep her happy. "Looks like we are coming with you." I said. This journey we had together been a fun one. We shared many memories and I even developed a soft spot in my heart for Kenji. Maybe they broke my window for a reason. Maybe this was our destiny from the very beginning. I believe that we crossed paths for a reason, and this was it. "Then let's go home." I started towards the portal and when we cross over it closes for the last time. "I suppose now that you live here, you'll need a home." I stay as Kenji and Samurai come up. Arena is within me forever she's passed on but lives as well. "Kenji, Samurai, perhaps you'd be interested in making you lots home at the base of my den?" I ask as I sense my Realm return to its true size as the Dark, all return even Arena. I thought she'd be within me, but I guess not. Furthermore, I don't want her to sever me after she died to save me. She must live now. I couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and relief now that we were united. Torn gave everyone big hugs. I hugged everyone as well and Kenji even kissed me. It was still an unreal feeling that all of it was over so fast. It was a hell of a journey, and I'm glad that everyone was okay. I could tell that Torn was going to be very happy here, I would be as well. Maybe they could all enter another beauty pageant in the future. So in the end that's our story. Fate brought us together and we stayed together. In the ends Kenji married his crush. Since I'm immortal I ended up granting the others the same power. I also married Torn when she turned 26 it was a weird day, but if we went back and did it again, I think we'd do it all the same.

From the Darknesss (M)|rating:3.0

Expectant Mother (Lewi and zoruna)

Learn looked at her as she said he could touch it. Taking his hand and placed it on her stomach. Her skin was soft and silky, but his gaze became focused on when the baby kicked and the skin rippled. "That is so amazing..." he said in a breathless voice. He looked up at her. "That is amazing. Exciting. Strange in a good way." He said softly. He watched as the baby kicked and once again the skin rippled. It amazed him how that happened. He had never seen anything like it. He listened as she spoke. "It is an honor to be here to help you through this Kiara. It must have been meant to happen...us bumping into one another in the store." He looked at her now as she continued to talk. Wondering what she would say. His eyes went wide, and then a big grin crossed his lips. "Yes. I would love to be the father figure for your baby Kiara. It would be both an honor and a pleasure to assist you in such a life changing matter." He said honestly. "His father doesn't want to be around and if he left you to deal with this on your own this long it is for the best in the long run. A man like that does not deserve to be responsible for a child. Let alone be an important part in a child and the child's mother's life." He said softly. "I feel such happiness that you asked me for such an honor Kiara. I will do everything I can for you and this baby." He said with a warm smile. Learn smiled each time the baby kicked at his hands. He gently rubbed where the baby was kicking without even realizing he was doing it. The baby seemed to like his hands there. It was amazing how fulfilling something as simple as feeling a baby kicking could be. He smiled as she spoke. Looking at her. "I am glad my answer pleases you. It is a great honor you have bestowed upon me Kiara. I will not fail you in this duty and obligation I have just made with you." He said. Smiling at her warmly. He shook his head. "I have not. In the line of work I led there was no time for family. I have never felt a baby kick as my mother only had one child which was me." He looked at her. "It is an amazing event to feel a baby kicking at your hands." He said honestly. "It is a precious moment that cannot be replaced by anything. Something that words can not truly do justice to in explaining how something like this feels." He said softly. Looking up at her before rubbing her tummy lightly. Enjoying how the baby seemed to kick in response. Even if people would now think them a couple or would begin to do so it did not matter. All that mattered to him was that his new good friend wanted him to be the father for her baby. It was an honor he had not expected yet thrilled him completely. He had always wanted to be a father. The fact that it was not his baby didn't even matter to him. Maybe not his baby by blood but the baby would be his child regardless of this fact. He knew as soon as he started taking her to doctor's appointments they would come to the conclusion she was his mysterious girlfriend. Sometimes he had issues with paparazzi but for the most part a bit of money to the media station, and he was left alone for the most part. He was glad she was happy. Seeing the time he moved his hands. "You should lay down and get some sleep. I need to go home and get some sleep as well. It is already midnight. Soon as I leave I want you to lock up tight and go get some sleep. Alright?" He said with a smile. Giving her a one-armed hug before heading to the door. "I will pick you up at eight o'clock. Make you a healthy breakfast for you and baby then we'll head out to apartment shop. Think over what rooms you want in your apartment. Including if you want a room that has a washer and dryer space. We'll get you your dream apartment. Good night Kiara." He said with a smile. Kissing the back of her hand lightly before leaving the house. Pulling the door shut tight and went downstairs to his car. Getting in and headed home after making sure the bodyguards knew they were to guard Kiara with their lives. That one of them should sleep while the other took first shift. Then they switched. Learn went home and began his training ritual. He stood inside the room in his home that had nothing but a bamboo mat across the floors and scrolls hanging on the walls. He took up a stance with his hands in front of him pressed together. Furthermore, he bowed to an invisible opponent. Furthermore, he then began to kick his legs. Sideways kicking to the right. An arc kick up and over his head. Backwards kick the high front kick. Low foot thrust. Repeating these things with his other leg. Then his fists began to move. He launched into the air and came down at an angle. Kicking the ground and forced himself back into the air. He began to backflip until he landed on a hand spiraling himself into the air and spin kicked. Landing on the tips of his toes on his right foot only. He launched himself into the air and began to somersault and then land on a hand. Flipping himself through the air. He continued this until sweat glistened his chest. He stopped long after the sun had gone down. Taking a shower and went to bed. Waking the next morning, and he repeated the training ritual of the night before. He then once again showered. Cooking her an omelet with ham, onion, bell peppers, cheese in the eggs before cooking, and sliced cheese in it near the end. He wrapped it in foil to keep it warm then stuck it in the container. He dressed and left the house. Container on the passenger seat. Around eight o'clock he pulled into her driveway. Turning the car off and removed the keys. Exiting and locking the car before going up and knocking on her front door. Learn waited patiently for her to come to the door. He looked at her front door. He heard the door unlock and open. When it did, he smiled and noticed she was naked. He quickly blocked the front door. "You are beautiful." He said and adverted his gaze to keep from staring. It was rude to stare at a lady. He went inside and shut the door. "It is alright. I apologize for that. I will wait on the couch." He said. Shutting and locking the door. He went and placed the steamed up food container on the table. Moving to the couch and sat down. He watched her towel drying her hair. He looked elsewhere because he was staring and noticing how beautiful her body looked beneath that towel. It was very rude and dishonorable to stare at a woman unless she was your chosen mate. Or invited to do so. He sat there and waited patiently. "I brought you something for breakfast that I made you. Once you are dressed you should come eat it." He said softly. "How did you and baby sleep Kiara?" He called out. Not looking as he began to take empty boxes and carefully pack things away. "I'm going to help you pack your things. We'll be getting your apartment today so you won't be needing to stay here another night." He smiled a bit and continued to pack things carefully. He looked at her as she came out. "Woo ow." He said before he could stop himself. "You look beautiful Kiara." He said softly. He took notice of the fact her close just seemed oversized. That they did not accent the beautiful curves of the pregnant woman. He sighed a bit. "Yes. We definitely need to get on that fashion line for pregnant women. Those clothes do nothing to accent the beautiful curves of a pregnant woman." He said with a nod of his head. He smiled a bit as she went over to the counter to eat the food he had bought her. Furthermore, he walked over and looked at her. "I hope you enjoy it. It is a delicious omelet. I figured you and baby would like it. It is not spicy at all. I promise." He said with a smile. He sat at the counter next to her. "We will get you some peppermint tea. It is an old herbal remedy for curing and helping with morning sickness." He said as he looked at her. He looked at where the baby was. Furthermore, he wanted to feel the baby kicking again. "Can... Can I have the honor of feeling the baby kick again?" He asked softly. Not wishing to offend her as old training and beliefs died hard. Some of them he would never lose. He smiled as he looked at her. "I am glad though that you and baby are feeling better." Learn looked at her as she spoke. "We'll get right on getting that fashion line for pregnant women done." He said softly. Glad she liked his omelet. "I am glad you are enjoying it." He said with a chuckle. When she said he could touch her belly he slid his hand up the bottom of her shirt. Letting it rest on her stomach where he lightly rubbed. He nodded his head. "Yes. Well oversizing the same things is not the same thing. It does not accent the beauty of the pregnant woman. We need to fix that. We'll get on that tonight or tomorrow." Her skin was soft, but he was hoping to feel the baby kick. He had liked that feeling. He looked at her and was glad she didn't mind him touching her belly. It made him happy that he could do the whole father to be aspect even though it wasn't his baby. It didn't matter that biologically it wasn't. This was going to be his baby. He would be this baby's father. He hummed a bit as he rubbed her belly. Furthermore, he looked at her. "I am certain together we can make more reasonable clothing for the pregnant woman." He said with a chuckle of amusement. He kept rubbing her belly. Smiling the whole time as it was nice to be able to be able to possibly feel the baby kick. Baby seemed to be sleeping right now though. "Hey little one. Mommy and daddy are right here. You are going to be such a special baby." He said. Talking to her belly as his mother had told him she had done. He looked so delighted and thrilled by this. It made him extremely happy. His heart was aglow with warmth. Learn smiled as he watched the baby shift. He looked up at the baby's mother whom he could easily fall in love with. She wouldn't want a man like him. A bodyguard gone multibillionaire? There was so much danger involved with that kind of money. Surely she would want a man who was safer and lived a less risky life. He knelt by her stomach. "Hey there. Daddy and Mommy say hi." he said. Rubbing her stomach in caressing circles. He let out a soft sound of delight as the baby kicked lightly. He moved his hand and rubbed where the tiny imprints of the baby's hands were. "Hey there little one. I see you. I bet you will be a really beautiful baby. Mommy and Daddy love you so much." He said softly. Looking up at her and smile. "Yes. You should talk to our baby some too. While you are sleeping. Or laying down to go to sleep. Or just laying down. Or just sitting. It makes the baby happy to hear his or her mother's voice. My mother told me talking to the baby helps its development somehow." He stood up and hugged the baby's mother again. "I am so honored you wanted me to be the baby's father." He whispered. "I can not ever repay you for the gift you have given me." He let her go and smiled. "Finished eating? If so it's time to go apartment viewing." Learn smiled at her. "I am honored to be in yours and the baby's life." He said with a smile. He didn't think he had a chance with her. She was an expecting mother. He was a rich man whose life was paparazzi filled at times. The occasional attempt at taking him hostage or killing him, both always ended badly for the perpetrator, meant being in his life could be potentially dangerous. He liked being around her though so he had looked up three properties that was one right up the street in his neighborhood, one a couple of blocks away and a mile away from his personal mansion where he lived. He had plans for, if she wanted to, after the baby was born her moving into his house with her and the baby. Furthermore, he didn't want to take her independence away from her as he knew independence was a very big thing to American women. Furthermore, he went back to packing the last of the living thing away in two boxes. Taping them shut and put them off to the side. He would pack the rest of her stuff later today. When they picked out her apartment. He chuckled at how eager she was and grabbed her house keys. Leaving the apartment himself and locked up. Getting into the car and began to drive towards her. "I am going to spend as much time as I can with you and the baby. During my lunches I am going to come eat with you or take you out to eat. If I have to have business lunches I will take you along to those." He turned a corner and continued heading towards upper town. "However, when I am not able to be with you because of work I plan to have someone I trust a lot of keep you company. He is my best friend and his name is Dakota. He is a flamboyant, girly, gay guy who is the sweetest man I know. Furthermore, he is out there and different. Furthermore, he believes he was born the wrong gender that he was supposed to be a girl. It is a strange and confusing concept to me, but the guy is kind. I have a feeling you'll like him as he is really friendly." He chuckled a bit. "It is like having a male female friend. You guys can do all sorts of girl things. I'm sure he'll take you to get your hair done. Your nails done. Go baby shopping. Any number of things that girls do together. I just wanted to give you a heads-up to what he is like." He pulled into the apartment complex. He looked at her. "This one is a mile away from my neighborhood, but they get increasingly closer. There is three of them." He said. Getting out of the car and took out the keys. He walked around to her door and opened it. Helping her out of the car before locking the doors. "It is on the first floor at all of them so you won't have to worry about stairs anymore." He said with a smile. He looked at the apartment. "They left it unlocked so we can show ourselves around. I had called ahead and told the three apartment realtors that we were coming." He led her to the front door and opened it. Beginning to lead her around the apartment and when they finished he looked at her with a smile. "What did you think?" (see images below)[IMG](master bedroom)[IMG](master bathroom)[IMG](master closet)m ... 2Broom.jpgm(small bedroom)[IMG](small closet)[IMG](hall closet)[IMG](half bathroom)[IMG](kitchen)[IMG](dining room)[IMG](living room) Learn chuckled at the comment about it being awkward the meeting with Dakota if she hadn't had a heads-up. "You have not the faintest idea." He said with a laugh. "Dakota is definitely one of a kind. I can assure you of that." He said. Dakota always amused him. He looked at her as she commented on the apartment. He could tell this one didn't really interest her. Furthermore, he smiled though, and it was nice of her to still pretend like she was considering it. "Yes. I can understand that." He said. Leading her with an arm around her waist towards the car. Unlocking it and opened it. Helping her in before going around to the other side after shutting the door. He drove them to the next apartment which was only three blocks away. "This one is only a few blocks away from my home. Let's go inside and check it out." He said with a smile. He parked in the parking lot and turned the car off. Getting out and helped her out of the car. Leading her over to the front door of the apartment which was also on the first floor. No steps at all. He began to show her around. When he had finished he looked at her. "What do you think?" He asked with a smile.[IMG](living room)[IMG](kitchen)[IMG](dining room)[IMG](hall closet)[IMG](small bedroom)[IMG](small bedroom closet)[IMG](master bedroom)[IMG](master bedroom closet)[IMG](half bathroom)[IMG](master bathroom) Learn chuckled at the comment about it being awkward the meeting with Dakota if she hadn't had a heads-up. "You have not the faintest idea." He said with a laugh. "Dakota is definitely one of a kind. I can assure you of that." He said. Dakota always amused him. He looked at her as she commented on the apartment. He could tell this one didn't really interest her. Furthermore, he smiled though, and it was nice of her to still pretend like she was considering it. "Yes. I can understand that." He said. Leading her with an arm around her waist towards the car. Unlocking it and opened it. Helping her in before going around to the other side after shutting the door. He drove them to the next apartment which was only three blocks away. "This one is only a few blocks away from my home. Let's go inside and check it out." He said with a smile. He parked in the parking lot and turned the car off. Getting out and helped her out of the car. Leading her over to the front door of the apartment which was also on the first floor. No steps at all. He began to show her around. When he had finished he looked at her. "What do you think?" He asked with a smile.[IMG](living room)[IMG](kitchen)[IMG](dining room)[IMG](hall closet)[IMG](small bedroom)[IMG](small bedroom closet)[IMG](master bedroom)[IMG](master bedroom closet)[IMG](half bathroom)[IMG](master bathroom) Learn chuckled and followed her out of the place. Locking it back up. For some reason he had a feeling she was going to say that. He liked that she wanted to see all the places though before making her decision. From what he had heard about the one up the street from his mansion was it was the best apartment complex in the entire city. He got back in the car after she was in and started driving. They took man turns and then went straight until they got to a place that there was lots of land behind the big mansion at the end of the street. Their was at least an acre of land before the houses that went vertically down the side of the road. A sidewalk on either side of the street. The road dead ended in front of the mansion and its land. There was even a barn further out back that held horses. He loved horses. He stopped at the house that was an about two up from the acre that separated Learn's land and the rest of the houses. Furthermore, he stopped the car and got out. Furthermore, he came around and opened the door for her. Helping her out of the car and smiled at her. Leading her inside that apartment. "I hope you like this one." He said with a smile.[IMG](master bedroom)[IMG](master bathroom)[IMG](master closet)[IMG](small bedroom)[IMG](small bedroom closet)[IMG](kitchen)[IMG](living room) Learn looked at her and was happy she liked this place. She was showing more and more interest in this place then in any of the other places they had been in. "I can tell. Your whole face lit up." He said with a smile. Taking her over to the window that looked out at his mansion. He stood behind her and pointed. "That is my place. I worked hard to buy it and the land. When you are able I'll take you horseback riding." He pulled his face back from her ear. His left hand resting on her stomach where the baby was. He pulled out his cellphone. "Shane? We'll take the apartment on Boston St. Yes. I'll have my bank wire you the money for the next few months rent. We'll talk about the rent after that." He said with a smile. Putting his phone away and looked at her. "Would you like to see my mansion now?" He asked softly. Learn looked at her and smiled. "Alright. Let us walk over there then." He said with a soft smile. He felt the baby kick against his hand and lit up. Furthermore, he rubbed where the baby was kicking. It never ceased to amaze him the feeling of the baby kicking against his hand. "Well come on then. Hold on." He said. He scooped her up and carried her bridal style. "You need to take a short break from walking because you want to view the whole place." He said softly. He carried her from the apartment. Setting her down just for a moment to lock up the place before scooping her back up. He carried her despite the looks that were being sent their way. He carried her back to the house. The butler opened the door and said good day to both of them. He checked his watch. "We got almost two hours before your doctor's appointment Kiara." He began showing her around and carried her for the first bit. There were numerous bedrooms including rooms for the staff. A beautiful and enormous kitchen. A large dining room. Several studies. A library. A music room with various types of instruments. An art room that contained things for doing artwork. He set her on her feet and led her into his large training room. "This is where I do my morning and evening training. Before I go to sleep I follow my old routine to stay in shape and not lose touch with my skills." He led her to the beautiful master bedroom and showed her around it. "This is my room." He said. The bathroom was huge with a large jacuzzi tub that could fit three people at least. A large walk in shower that two could fit in. A beautiful marble counter. The decor in the bathroom was oriental and pieces from his homeland. As was the decor in the bedroom. "There is a garden outside and a small swimming pool out back behind a fenced off area." Learn looked at her. "I won't drop you and the baby." He said softly. He carried her with very great ease. Furthermore, he set her down on the bed. Stretching and looked around the room then back to her. "I am glad you think so Kiera." He then looked at her. He looked at his watch and saw it was time to head to her doctor's appointment "Alright. Time to go to your doctor's appointment." He said. Scooping her back up and walked through the house and out the front door. Setting her down on her feet outside when they were almost to the car. When they arrived at the car he unlocked the doors and opened the door for her. He then got in the car himself. He noticed the bodyguards cars were sitting across the street. Furthermore, he then drove once she was buckled up to the doctor's office. Thankfully it was an office on the first floor. She wouldn't have to do much walking. There were no stairs that she would have to climb. It would be easier on her. He opened the door for her. He went to the receptionist. "Kiara is here for her appointment." He said with a smile. The woman nodded and handed them paperwork for Kiara to fill out. "Fill out this medical history thing Kiara." He said with a warm smile. Learn looked at her and smiled. Watching her fill out the paperwork. It took a little while, but they soon had all the information filled out and the clipboard given back to the people. He gave the insurance card and paid the doctor's visit fee. He then came back over to Kiara. Sitting down next to her until they were called back. Following her as the woman made her get on the scale. Writing down her weight then got her height. Writing it down as well. The nurse took her temperature and her pulse rate. Then checked her blood pressure levels. The nurse sat her down in a room. The nurse looked at her. "The doctor will be in momentarily." Learn looked at Kiara as the nurse left. Pulling the chair up closer to her. "Are you excited?" He asked with a smile. He took hold of her hand and lightly stroked it. The doctor came in and he smiled. "Thank you for seeing us on such short notice." He said to his old friend. Learn chuckled as he saw Dr. Marci walk in. Her beaming face told him she was happy to see the pregnant belly of his friend. Dr. Marci had a soft spot for kids but could only adopt. She was unable to have children. He watched her do the tests. Letting go of Kiara's hands so that she could be helped down to go to the ultrasound room. He placed his hand on Kiara's shoulders and followed them down the hallway. His hands letting her go once they entered the room. He pulled up a chair and sat near Kiara. Holding her hand again to be supportive. He looked at the screen and was amazed to see two babies. Would explain the added weight to the woman's form. His hand stroked Kiara's as he looked at Dr. Marci. "I'm hoping to one day have at least one of each. I'm not really picky though." He said with a smile. "I'll love any baby that is born that is my child." He looked at Kiara. "Even if they aren't born of my loins so to speak." He held Kiara's hand. "They will still always be my child." He smiled the whole time. "Yes. Dr. Marci can you print out one of those three d images of the ultrasound... I'm certain that Kiara would love one for her baby book that we are going to be getting." He said with a smile. He was glad to see the excitement n Kiara's face. Furthermore, he chuckled, and his gaze went back to the screen. "They are going to be such beautiful babies." He said softly. His tail unwrapping from around his waist and making a bit of a wagging motion before wrapping around Kiara's arm on its own accord. Soon letting it go and rewrapping around his waist. He looked at Kiara. "You'd love a picture of the babies for the baby book right?" He said. He probably shouldn't have spoken for her, but he was almost certain she would. Learn looked at Kiara and nodded his head. "Yes. So I see. I am very happy." He said softly. He looked at the image on the computer screen again. Two beautiful babies. They would be beautiful like their mother. He looked back at her. Smiling about the whole thing happily. He looked back at Marci as she started talking again. Watching her wiping the goo after talked to them. Smiling at Marci. "Thank you, Marci." He said softly. He looked at the oversized shirt and realized they needed to get working on that pregnancy line soon. She looked so uncomfortable in the clothes she was wearing. They weren't flattering in the slightest, but it didn't take away from her beauty. He took the prescription and nodded his head. "Alright. Thank you, Marci." He helped Kiara down and helped her out to the car. "First to the pharmacy and then to get you something for you and the babies. I'm going to call some favors in and get the rest of your old apartment packed up and moved into the new place." He said with a smile. "Have them unpack everything as well." He then started the car. Touching his Bluetooth. "Call Henry and Wilcox company." He told the phone. ~calling~ Came the voice from the phone. When the phone was answered he started speaking. "I'm calling in a favor Henry. I need you and your boys to go to apartment 63 on Freon Street. I need you and your boys to pack up everything and take it to the apartment that was previously empty up the street from my mansion. Including the food. I need you to put everything away and call me when you have done it. Yes. It is top priority. Good. I will hear from you when you have completed this then." He touched the blue tooth and hung up the call. Looking to Kiara. "Where do you want to go for a late lunch early dinner?" Learn looked at her for a second while they were at a stop light. "It i s a healthy and natural thing to have cravings during pregnancy. When it is possible to do so allow yourself to indulge in your cravings."he smiled at her. Once he had her fed he drove her back to the house. A month of wonderful moments and amusing times passed. He called her up on his cellphone on his way to work. When she answered he began speaking." If you need anything at all do not hesitate to call me directly on my cellphone. It will be on vibrate but till be with me at all times. If there is any type of emergency hit 2something and then send. I will come as quickly as I can not matter that is going on at that moment. If it is an emergency no matter how small contact me. I am at work now so I will talk to you later."he with that he hung up the phone and headed inside. Heading straight to the conference room and began his business meeting. Learn's phone went off and he answered it. "Hello? Kiara? Hello?" He said into the phone. Hearing her scream no he shot up so fast the chair crashed into the ground. He was already heading towards the door. Stopping only to pull the phone away for a second. "I'm sorry...a family emergency has come up. We will have to reschedule. See the secretary. I must go." He was then out the door and down the steps before anyone could say a word. He rushed out and merely threw his suit jacket onto the seat. Furthermore, he sped off towards Kiara's apartment. Furthermore, he screeched to a halt outside the apartment. Furthermore, he flew out of the car even while it was still running. The front door was open and he burst in. His cellphone falling silently into the plant holder by the door. He kicked off his dress shoes and his foot spun and sent the man flying off of Kiara. He flipped over her and his tail unwrapped from around his waist. Furthermore, he began to unleash a flurry of kicks, thrusts, blows, palm thrusts, and chi moves. Moving not like a businessman but an ancient oriental bodyguard or warrior. He slammed the man's face down on the ground. He sniffed. Furthermore, he smelled something. Furthermore, he jerked the man up and spoke to him harshly in his native tongue. Tying him up and picked up her phone. Calling the cops and asking for an ambulance. Then he was at her side. Scooping her up and holding her to him. "Are you okay?" He asked softly. Sitting down and held her delicately. Learn looked at the man he had tied up with a look of pity and dismay. "You sir...know no honor. You act without honor. You act without respect. Yet... I protected with honor. I protected with respect. You were defeated...now you will go to jail." He said simply. He held Kiara as he could see and smell her Terry. "Shhh...shhh...shhh...it is okay Kara. It is okay. Everything is alright now. You are safe." He said softly. Speaking in a warm and soothing tone. He wasn't sure what he smelled, but he was definitely taking her to see a doctor after he got the cops here. He picked up her cellphone with his long tail and brought it over to him. Feeling her curl into his chest...his arm angled across her back so he could stroke her hair soothingly. "It is alright Kiara...you are safe now." He said in a soothing almost loving voice. He held her while she cried. Furthermore, he looked to the man. A frown on his face as she spoke. "When you are ready...you can tell me about it...if you need to. Right now...he will be going to jail." He looked at her. "You may need to testify against him...do you think you'd be able to do that? We can work it out so you won't have to be in the courtroom or see him when you do. They have a way to do it where you can be heard, but he can not see you. He will be dealt with...it'll be okay." He said softly. Furthermore, he looked to the man. "It is nothing that should be repeated to a lady. Needless to say... I was telling him off without cussing or showing signs of anger. I may no longer be a bodyguard to an empress, but I will always follow Bushido...the code of the samurai." He looked at her and called the police. Reported the attack, the hit and the fact that it was the man who raped his lady friend. He had almost said girlfriend, but that would be presumptions of him. He told them to send an ambulance as he was worried that when the man was abusing her he may have hurt his pregnant lady friend. Furthermore, he hung up. "They will be sending cops and an ambulance. Just relax Kiara. I will not leave your side." [IMG]Learn NastinsRoyal Bodyguard Of Canadian Empire Gone Wealthy Billionare21Anthro Moon (lion and canine mix)Learn once lived in a very, very old empire. He had been the royal bodyguard to the Empress of An aria. He was trained in numerous forms of hand-to-hand combat and martial arts. Furthermore, he still had his swords from back in the homeland. Furthermore, he had been over the other bodyguards of the Canadian empire. Furthermore, he was now an extremely wealthy billionaire. Furthermore, he owned numerous businesses even a car company that's vehicles were highly popular. Furthermore, he drove himself instead of being driven around like most wealthy people. His bodyguards were never far behind. He didn't rely on others to get him the things he needed. He did have a cook and staff at his oriental styled mansion, but he was very independent. Furthermore, he was currently driving his car towards the grocery store. A pair of shades on to disguise his eyes. He was trying to keep a low profile. He stopped the car and turned it off. Getting out of the car he locked it before heading inside. He pushed a car as he began grabbing food items that he wanted. As he walked he left the cart behind. Looking for that which he was looking for. He turned and bumped into a young woman. Around his age or so it seemed. "My apologies miss." He said. Steadying her with his hands to her shoulders as he made sure she didn't fall. He lowered his hands to his side. Taking her in. She had beautiful red hair and the bluest eyes he had ever seen. He smiled at her. "Can I help you miss?" He asked with a warm smile. He noted she was pregnant. If he had to guess he'd say she was like five to seven months along. He looked around curiously. Where was the father? She was here all alone from what he could tell. He looked at her. He grabbed a few grocery items and put them in the nearby cart of his. Furthermore, he looked at her again. She was beautiful. Why was she here all alone? With the way he had grown up with honor being an important part of his culture's way of life...this did not make much sense. Abandoning your family or not being there when they needed you was something that went against everything he knew. Learn looked at her and smiled. "Thank you for your forgiveness miss." He said with a smile. He noticed that she had very little in her cart. His ears shifted and listened to the surrounding sounds. He studied her again when she looked up at him and smiled. She had such a sweet and beautiful smile. "It would be my honor to assist you miss." He said. He noted she didn't have a ring of any sort on her finger. "I would enjoy helping you immensely." He held out his hand. "My name is Learn. What is yours?" He asked. He looked at her with kind and warm eyes behind his shades. Furthermore, he looked at what she had in her cart. "Tell you what. You most likely need more than that miss. You can load up my car with everything you need. I'll help you get them in and then leave if you want. I am sure you need help. My mother told me when women are carrying young ones it is not easy to do heavy lifting and mobility gets harder the further along they are." He smiled a bit. "I would be honored if you allowed me to assist you." Learn smiled at her. "You are more than welcome." He said with a smile. He pulled out a business card and handed it to her. "I will give you a ride anytime you need it." He said with a warm smile. "I will carry your bags up to the third floor." He said softly. He began putting things in her cart for her. Things that was good for a pregnant woman to eat. That would help the baby. "That is a beautiful name Kiara." He said with a smile. He looked at her curiously as she spoke. Shaking his head and smiled. "I don't need your money. How about dinner later instead?" He said in a questioning sort of way. "I am sure you need your money." He added a moment later. He looked at her. "You are more than welcome Kiara. It is my pleasure. I come from an old world culture. Men are to honor women like they are royalty even when they are not." He said. Putting more things in the cart. He came back to her. "Do you need to sit for a moment Kiara? Or you're feeling up to going through the store more?" Learn looked at her and began reading labels. Checking the ingredients of different boxed foods. "The foods I am putting in the cart are for the baby as well as you. These different foods contain vitamins and minerals important to your health and the baby's development. It'll help your little one grow up strong even before he or she is out of the womb." He said with a warm smile. He put several foods in. Grabbing different all natural ingredients from the produce isle. He turned and walked back over to her. "You are still a woman. Therefore...you deserve to be treated as if you were the most important being on the planet." He said. He shook his head. "Kiara...no. It is not necessary. You need to take it easy. Let me take care of the bags. You walk for two right now. If you push your endurance you will be far more tired than if you take it easy." He said with a smile. He chuckled a bit. "I'm sure Kiara. I have no need of money." He pushed the cart and looked at her. "Then I will take you to dinner after we get your stuff up to your apartment. I'll help you put away on the lower level so you won't have to bend over." He looked at her. "How does Italian sound? I know Mexican would be bad. I have heard spicy doesn't usually settle well with babies." He picked up the gallon of milk. Shaking his head as it was 2%. He looked at her. "This milk won't do. You need to drink vitamin D milk while you are pregnant. For most people it isn't healthy but for pregnant women and babies it is full of essential vitamins to the babies' growth." He exchanged the milk and grabbed a second gallon. He put it in the cart. Looking at her and made sure they had everything they needed he headed to the check-out. Checking on Kiara sometimes. Putting the food up on the check-up counter. Learn looked at her and chuckled. "I do." He said warmly. He nodded his head. Furthermore, he had learned many things back in his homeland. Furthermore, he had seen many things. Furthermore, he had learned many things. How he was from Royal Bodyguard to multibillionaire, but he still followed the code of Bushido. The way of the samurai. He finished putting things on the counter and touched her arm lightly. "No." He said simply with a smile. "I got this." He said. Walking around her and pulled out his credit card. He didn't even bother watching how much it was. He slid his card and punched in the code. Signing the receipt and piled the bags into the cart. "Follow me." He said. Pulling the cart along and stopping to make sure she still looked alright. He went around to the car and unlocked it. Opening the door for her. "Go ahead and get in Kiara. I'll load everything into the trunk." He then walked to the trunk and popped it. He put the bags into the trunk. When she was inside the car he shut the front door then got into the driver's seat. "Where is your home?" He asked softly.[IMG] Learn looked at her as buckled in. Beginning to drive in that direction. "UtsukushÄ« (beautiful) you honor me." He said with a smile. He pulled up to a stop light. Furthermore, he looked at her. "I am glad you feel I am a blessing. Any time you need anything Kiara do not hesitate to give me a call." He started driving again when the light turned green. He looked pulled into her apartment parking lot and turned off the car. Getting out of the car with his keys he opened her door. "You go ahead and go upstairs. Leave the front door open so that I can bring the groceries in. Then please...take it easy." He said. He popped the trunk and began grabbing bags of food. Looking around the side of the car to check on her. Make sure she was still okay. Learn took up the first armful of groceries and set them on the counter. "Utsukushi means beautiful. I apologize. I slipped into my native tongue. Canadian is very similar to Japanese and Chinese languages." He looked at her. He tilted his head to the side. "We are friends now right Kiara? Well as a friend... I suggest you take it easy. The more you are on your feet the more strain you put on you and the baby." He smiled. "Be right back." He said. Going back down the stairs and grabbed more groceries. He took them up and laid them on the counter. Going back downstairs and grabbed the last handful. Shutting the trunk with his elbow and came up the stairs a third time. He placed them on the counter. "You tell me where things go, and I'll put them away." He looked at her apartment. "Kiara while you are pregnant as your friend I will take care of the rent. Just tell me how much it is. As your friend I am concerned about yours and your baby's well-being." He began putting the fridge items in the fridge. He looked at her with a warm smile. Furthermore, he looked at her ankles. "Your ankles and feet seem swollen. If you would like I could help them feel better with a massage. My mother had told me that pregnant women's legs and feet can swell. Water weight or something. Not entirely certain why that is to be honest. It has been a long time since I have spoken to my dear haha (mother) in quite a long time." He said. He then resumed putting the items in the fridge. "Where does bread items go?" Learn looked at her. He blinked as it just registered the type of place she was in. The type of neighborhood she was in. He shook his head. "This won't do. I can't let you live in this place. In this neighborhood. Tomorrow we go apartment hunting." he said seriously. "It is dishonorable to allow someone you know to live in a dangerous neighborhood. Especially a pregnant woman. I must treat all friends of mine with honor and respect." he said seriously. Then smiled at her hearing her comment. He started putting stuff away when she spoke. He looked at her. Smiling a bit. "Yes. Yes I would. We are friends. It does not matter the length of time you have known a friend. Merely the way you treat them. I will always treat you with respect and honor." He looked at her and resumed working on the food. Once it was all put away he walked over to her. "It is no trouble." he said with a smile. Getting down on her knees and took off her shoes and socks. "You need to stop waitressing right now. I have a solution to how you can make money, feel you earned the money for the rent of your apartment, and help me out." He said. He began to slowly knead her right ankle with the tips of his fingers. Gentle pressure while treating her with tender care. "One of the businesses I have is a fashion line. I have been thinking for some time about developing a maturity line." He looked up at her. "If you help me with designing this line and giving your opinion on designs and things you will be earning money. Yet keeping off your feet and taking it easy. A solution to both issues...yes? We will go apartment hunting first thing in the morning. I will pick you up at eight." He thought it is a perfect solution to her problems. Learn looked at her and smiled. "Great. It's a plan then." he said with a smile. Letting go of her when she moved. "You are welcome Kiara." He looked at her with a smile. He was happy that she was happy about that idea. "You are very welcome Kiara. I am glad that idea meets your approval. She had a beautiful and wide smile. He would let her help with the fitting if she asked or suggested it. It would be a great idea because he wasn't a pregnant woman. Other than his new friend he didn't know any pregnant women. He looked at her. Smiling as he took a seat on her couch. He was a very envisioned designer. He knew that not all women were shaped the same. That women were different. He wanted to make a clothing line that reached out to most if not all women. This maturity line that was different from other clothes. From other outfits made for everyone else. She spoke and he nodded his head. "I'll be right here until you kick me out." He said. His ears flicked a bit. His tail unwrapped from around his waist and shifted some. He looked down at it. The tip was wagging a bit. She was such a sweet and wonderful young woman. He saw her purse spill its contents onto the floor. He walked over and looked on it. Picking up the paper and began putting the contents back into the purse. He instantly felt for his new friends as he read that she had been raped. His poor friend. He put the paper back in her purse. Should he confront her about it? He decided it was best to wait until she brought it up. If she ever brought it up. He waited and wrapped his tail around his waist again. It was a very long and silky soft tail. There was other Nikos and authors in this city. None like him though. He was surprised she hadn't commented upon it. He was a moon author. A moon was a rare type of dog mixed with a lion mix. He was glad he had met this woman. It was probably unmet that they had meant. Unmet which meant fate. He went back to the couch and sat down. Waiting patiently. The tip of his tail flicked. It soon stopped, and he looked around the naked apartment. At least she hadn't unpacked all the way. Learn's tail twitched a bit. It was long. He also had a light coating of fur covering his form. Like silk barely there coating of fur over his skin. More like crushed velvet than animal fur. What was she staring at? He followed her gaze to his tail. Tilting his head to the side. Many women liked his ears and tail. The ears flicked and bounced slightly as he watched her. He smiled at her. He wondered if this was the first time seeing a being like him. Furthermore, he was also one of a rare and almost extinct race. Furthermore, he saw her excitement and chuckled very softly. Watching her come closer and lower herself beside him. Though at first when she said one of them he got puzzled. Then rationalized she meant Neo or Author. He chuckled a bit. "Yes. I am an author. One of a very rare race. I am a Moon. It is a rare type of dog mixed with a lion. Extremely rare and almost extinct even in pure animal form. I have never heard of one outside An aria. My homeland." he explained softly. He looked at her. "I hope this does not freak you out. It makes some people nervous. Though I am closer to a neo than a full-blown Author." He explained. He unwrapped his long silky tail from around his waist. Moving it close to her. "Would you like to feel it? It is really soft. Like crushed velvet meets silk. It's okay if you don't want to. You just seem kind of curious." He explained. Learn looked at her. "It is quite alright Kiara." He said with a chuckle. "You have such a cute blush." He said with a smile. Shivering ever so slightly at the dancing butterfly like kisses of her fingertips across his tail. "You have now." He said with a smile. She looked so happy and that made him happy. When he had first met her about two hours ago she had seemed so sad. So withdrawn. It was good to see the constant smiles on her face. It brought a warmth to his heart. She needed to smile more. It was a terrible thing that happened to her but still it was what brought her here. "Well a Neo looks more like you. More like a human, but they have Neo ears and a tail. Author's vary and grow increasingly closer to an animal. A full out Author is a pure animal that walks on two legs and wears clothing." He explained. "All the Nikos and Authors have animal ears and an animal tail." he said. Hoping that cleared things up for her. "You should eat something Kiara. You are eating for two. I can cook you and the baby something to eat if you would like. I do not mind as you need to eat. You also need to be off your feet." He said with a smile. Shivering ever so slightly. Her fingers gracing over his tail felt nice. His tail tip wagged a tiny bit. He forced it to stop. Learn looked at Kiara as she smiled. She really had a beautiful smile. Part of him just wanted to see that smile stay on her face. As she blushed more his hand itched to reach forward and lightly touch her cheek. He refrained from doing so though. He smiled as well. "You are quite welcome Kiara." He said warmly. His accent slipping out some making her name sound like a sensual and exotic flower or fruit. He shook his head and hid the accent again. Focusing back in on her as she spoke. "I would enjoy cooking for you Kiara." He said softly. "No. I must insist you rest. Based off the swelling your ankles you have spent too much time on your ankles as it is. You need to stay off them as much as possible." He said kindly. He blinked and tilted his head for a second as that beautiful and delicate smile turned into a mischievous one. Furthermore, he blinked as she spoke. Furthermore, he just watched her and fought his training. Winning over it easily when she reached up and started scratching behind his ears. "Now...that is...just not fair." He said. His tail wagging more and a deep charring sound, almost like a purring sound mixed with the happy sounds of a dog, rumbled in his throat. His ear flicking against her hand. "Very unfair Kiara-san." He gently took hold of her hand and pulled it from his ears. "I will make you a meal." He said. Standing up and went over to the stove. Turning it on and grabbed various items. Beginning to cook a good meal for her. Chopping and cutting things up. Learn rubbed the back of his head as he remembered when she had gone WWW...that was just unusual. He chuckled in amusement at the memory then resumed putting the dinner together. He looked at her. "Thank you. It is from the country I grew up in. I was not always in this country." He said. He began adding dashes of seasonings. Furthermore, he wasn't embarrassed or anything. Furthermore, he was merely dealing with the fact he had liked that. More than he had expected he would. He was quite fine with her curiosities and curious explorations. He turned his head to see her move to a stool. Furthermore, he soon had the food boiling in the skillet he had on the stove. Stirring it and then added in the chopped up veggies. It was soon smelling perfect in the kitchen. "It is almost ready Kiara." He said with a smile. Learn looked at her. "A traditional meal called Marin Poached Beef." He said. "It is quite delicious." He added a moment later. Putting the food from the skillet into a pot and finished cooking it. He then washed the skillet and put it in the dish drainer. Searching for a bowl while the pot simmered on very low heat. He then scooped out a big bowlful for her. He carried it over to her and placed a spoon and a fork by the bowl. Furthermore, he turned the heat off and got her a large glass of milk. Placing it beside her bowl at the top of it. He looked at her. He smiled a bit. "It will taste just as delicious as it smells." He turned his gaze to the window. Sighing a bit. "Was fairly certain I ditched them." He walked to the window and looked at the black cars. "They are my bodyguards. Merely to keep others happy and raise less questions. I really don't need them." He said with a chuckle. He walked back over to her. Helping her from the stool and helped her to the chair he pulled out for her. When she was seated he pushed her up to the table but left room for her stomach. His cellphone rang. He answered it. "HAI? Are, Natasha Wei ya«Jin to issue NI Jinan o sunshine primary. Natasha Wei Nazi mo banjo no on'ya NI Koran Kyoto o Bakunin sure Anita no otokonoko o hitsuyō to white image. Astute Natasha Wei Natasha GA Nazi o IMF white Okinawa. Warfare Wei banjo NI trash« apart o Shōtoku sure made, Natasha Wei banjo GA you no tame NI an zen NI naritaidesu. Natasha Wei made nonwhite insides." (Yes? No. I am spending time with a friend. I need you boys to make sure nothing happens to her tonight. Once I leave I mean. I want her to be safe for the night until we get her a new apartment. I am not leaving yet.) His accent coming out again as he spoke in the language that was similar to Japanese and Chinese. He turned back to her. "Try it Kiara. I am certain you will like it."[IMG] Learn looked at her as she tried the food. She seemed to really like it. Her eyes lit up and she was smiling happily. He wasn't going to help himself to a bowl of food. Sure he was in America now but inviting yourself was something he was trained you did not do. If she invited him to join her at the table with a bowl of food he would. Old habits died hard. His smile grew as she spoke on the food. He then leaned on the island counter. She seemed to be enjoying the meal. That was a good thing. He looked from the window to her. "I do not need to go. I was just making sure that you would be safe. They were just checking to make sure I did not need them. Which I don't." He said with a chuckle. He smiled a bit. "I am quite enjoying our time together Kiara. Unless you need me to leave now I will stay awhile longer. I have also sent emails to my business associates letting them know I will be out of the offices for tomorrow. I cleared my schedule to go apartment shopping with you." He closed his eyes for a minute. "We will get you a beautiful apartment with a lovely view. Also do not worry about how much it costs. As I said before I will be completely covering it and the expenses for its rent. I have a friend who keeps house that would be more than willing while you a pregnant to help you keep your apartment clean. Leave you more time to not over do it." He opened his eyes and looked at her. He honestly was on the open market. Sure he had what they called in his homeland suitors, but they were not his type. He had gone on dates yes, but mostly he had applied himself strictly to work. He was actually very straight. Work had always come first back in the homeland so now he was more work oriented than woman hunting. He believed that karma would bring him his perfect match when he was not looking for it. He looked at the food. "Do you mind if I join you at the table for dinner Kiara?" He asked with a smile. His phone sliding back into his pocket. Learn looked at her with a warm smile. He was rather happy with what she said to him. "I am honored to be your first bit of company in months." He said with smile. He chuckled a bit. "They are willing. They also have to because that was my orders for them." He said with an amused smile. "I want you to be safe." He said in a softer voice. He made a bowl of the food and got himself some silverware when she invited him to eat. Furthermore, he sat down across from her. "Thank you for the honor of dining with you Kiara." He said with a smile. Beginning to eat while she smiled at him. His tail wrapped around his waist for a minute before he allowed the long tail to unwrap and drape across his shoulder. His ears twitching then he took off the shades. Slipping them onto the collar of his shirt. He continued eating as he looked around this place. This place would do for the night. Thankfully she wouldn't be spending another night after this in this place. She would have a better and nicer apartment in a much better area of town. He looked back at her. "We will have you in a safer place for sleep tomorrow night. Also, I am going to give you my cell. If you need me for any reason whatsoever do not hesitate to call me." He said with a smile. Learn looked at her and smiled. "You are my friend. I will do anything to help out a friend." He then looked at her stomach. "Have you seen a doctor yet? If not that will be on the list of things we do tomorrow. Have you had any prenatal care? If not we'll have to get you that as well. I will help you make sure your baby is healthy as it can be. These questions just popped into my mind. You don't need to worry about anything. As your friend I will help you get the medical care you need. Whatever you need to help you with this I will try to do for you." He smiled a bit and finished eating. "Do you know the babies gender?" He looked at the ceiling for a moment. "I have always found the thought of fatherhood a pleasing concept. Up until about three years ago...the lifestyle I led was not an ideal one for being a father. It was a dangerous occupation. I did something quite like what my bodyguards do. Only on a much larger scale." He looked back at her. "Before I came to America I was the personal royal bodyguard to the empress of An aria." he said. He began to politely drink the broth. "Which is why I said I do not really need them. I can take care of myself far more successfully than those bodyguards could." he chuckled a bit. "We were an old world culture. We didn't have much modern day things. No guns. No cars. No phones. We were very traditional." he leaned back a bit. "Then I came to America and began several businesses which quickly became successful. I enjoy my new life. It is less hazardous, and I hope to one day settle down with a wife. Have a family." He shook his head. "I just have not yet found my soulmate. I am certain I will soon. Maybe I already have. Who knows?" Learn pulled out his cellphone. He began going through the numbers. "What is your full name? Your age? Your date of birth?" he asked. Looking up at her. "I'm going to put you on my insurance. You won't have to worry about affording doctor visits. I will make sure you get to them. Also, any checkups or things you need for the baby I will get. Don't worry about any of it." He held the phone. "When you give me that information I am going to schedule you an appointment for tomorrow afternoon. We'll go to it together. Any appointments you have for you or the baby I will take you to." He said with a smile. Sending an email to his insurance company telling them that he was making an addition to his insurance. That he would get them more information shortly. He looked at her curiously at her question. "I am not. I am single and have been for a long time. I've gone on the occasional date, but it was nothing very serious." He said truthfully. He looked at her. "I'm glad you think it's interesting. I was actually trained to be a Bushido since I was a little boy. By the time I was nine I was body guarding for the empress when she was younger. As the years passed I soon became the royal Bushido. The personal royal bodyguard of the empress herself. Leading the other bodyguards in their duties to the empress. I found I enjoy what I do now more than what I had done my entire life." He waited for her to give him the information he needed to get the insurance started in her name on his insurance. Then he would call and schedule her with a lady doctor friend of his. Learn sent the information to his insurance people. Then dialed up the lady doctor to her direct line. "Yes Margret? I need to set an appointment for a friend of mine. She is about six months pregnant. Her name is Kiara Plain Stephens. She is twenty-two and her birthday is January 22 1989." He said. Listening and nodded his head. "Yes. She can give you the rest of the information when we get to your office. What is the soonest time in the afternoon you have available?" He listened. "Twelve o'clock? Alright. We'll be there. She needs a full exam for her and the baby." He soon ended the call. Looking at her and shook his head. "Just be yourself. I do not seek a reward for helping a friend. It is the way of the Bushido to follow a code of honor. I will help you because you are my friend." He said. "I do not need any repayment for being a good friend." He then got the message informing him she was added to his insurance. "You are now added to my insurance. When we get you a new apartment I will have them mail you a copy of the card to your mailing address." He then relaxed into the chair. Looking at her. "I will pick you up at eight tomorrow. We'll go check out some apartments. Then at ten to twelve we will go to the doctors. Then I will take you to lunch." he said with a smile. Sure their dinner plans had changed from a restaurant to dinner at her place, but that was fine with him. He looked at his watch. He would have to leave soon. Go home and do his physical training and get some sleep. He would be up close to dawn to do his morning physical training. He looked at her. "When I leave in a little bit you need to lock up tight and get yourself some sleep. You and the baby both need your rest." Learn looked at Kiara and smiled. Blinking and wrapped his arms around her gently when she hugged him. He smiled warmly at her words. "You are more than welcome Kiara." He said softly. He was surprised by the feeling of her stomach pressing against him lightly. The odd part was it wasn't a bad strange even if it was strange. He blinked and looked down to her stomach as the baby kicked. A look of marvel and interest in that fact. It fascinated him and made him feel a strange sort of delight in his heart. He looked at her in the eyes. "The baby kicked. That is the most amazing thing that has ever happened to me. Aside from fate introducing the two of us." he said with a chuckle. "You should touch your stomach where the baby is. Give the baby contact." He said softly. He wanted to lay a hand on her stomach to see if the baby kicked again. Furthermore, he looked at her stomach. "I liked that. It was a strange but wonderful feeling to feel a babies kick from inside the womb." He said softly. Looking at her. "I want you to know even as just your friend you are not alone in this any more Kiara. You have me. I will help you in any way that I can." He was being honest and even if it wasn't his it was a young life. It was a budding blossom that would blossom into a wonderful bundle of joy. "When you know more about the baby we will go clothes shopping. We'll find an apartment with at least two bedrooms, so one can be a nursery." he said softly. "We'll get all the things you'll need for the baby." In a way this was exciting to him. Even if it was just his friend's baby the fact he could help her with it made it just as exciting to him. He assumed while it had been a bad thing that caused the baby it was exciting to her.

Expectant Mother (Lewi and zoruna)|rating:3.0

The Corruption of Patience [DylanTheVillain & Lady Hecate]

The air was odd one the eve of battle. The seven angels stood together speaking of formations and coaxing each other on to be their very best. No one of them ever claimed to be better than the next, but all knew which would lead the charge. The angels of Diligence and Patience had both worked tirelessly on the plan of attack on this claimed arena. They knew they would be facing their dark counterparts soon enough and each one of them was more than willing to offer themselves if it means taking down one of the retched demons. The group began brandishing their arms, each unique and yet fitting to the one wielding it. Diligence wielding his gallant spear took the lead of the left flank. Their sisters Kindness and Chastity a bit behind him on either side. Kindness wielding a simple sword and shield combination. Chastity had a very simple weapon in the dual daggers that she kept close to her form. Humility held the right flank with his giant axe of illustrious design with Temperance with his Long sword and Charity with his golden mace were set to move behind their brother. The farthest rear flank was the most skilled archer ever to grace the heavenly plane, Patience. He knew how to take his time with a shot and aim, prepare, and release within milliseconds of pinpoint accuracy. It was a rather safe plan that the seven had constructed, but sadly this was the greatest flaw. For all knew that Patience was the most watchful and protective of his siblings, it was this very gift that left him open when the one the demons called father took to the battlefield. The demon rose up in a billowing cloud of smoke and black flames before somehow managing to drag the holy creature back down into the depths of his home. The demons quickly retreated after this, they had done what they came to do. It had been quite some time since then but no decision had been made on the angels fate. He simply sat shackled in a dark room where he had nothing but himself to acknowledge. Though being an angel of virtue he sat quietly, patiently and waited for something to transpire in this fiendish prison he had found himself in. It was about this time that his Rival came to the door, swinging it open with his signature devilish grin. "Well, well, well, you really bit the big one this time didn't ya?" The demon teased as he walked into he room and circled the kneeling angel. Patience said nothing and simply kept his eyes on his shackles. While behind him the wrathful demon showed his rage by striking the back of the angels head with the back of his own hand. "Speak up buddy boy I can't quite hear you!" The emotional creature roared at his prisoner before a Burly man walked in, an utterly bored look upon his face. "Wrath, give it a rest will ya? Pops said to bring him to the conference room, not hit him in the noggin." The aloof being that dragged his feet as he moved towards the angel let a light smile grace his lips, as much effort as it was it seemed necessary. "Pops wants to talk to you himself, this ought be good." Soon after the two demons walked their prisoner to a large room with seven equally leveled pedestals set around the walls. An eighth pedestal was also set at the head of the room but was set a bit higher. The eerie being that had swallowed up the angel of patience to begin with was now seated there with all the other seven taking their spots around the room. The voice of the Father seemed to echo through the room and whisper into each and every ear that was present to hear it. It sent a chill over the angels' spine, but he kept himself calm as he waited for their so-called judgement." So... You are the one I captured during my brief visit to the field... The angel of Patience... Well children, how might we go about dealing with this one." Wrath was the first to answer as he stood on his pedestal and raised his arm to cross his chest as he bowed his head. "Father, please let me have him, He will suffer for going against everything I stand for!" A slow building cackle shot through the room as the father heard his son speak. "Oh? And How would you do this, my son?" Wrath grinned as he lifted his eyes and looked to his father before jumping down to the angels side. "I would first gut him, and feed his intestines through a machine of great complexity. And just before the life would leave his eyes, I would fix his wounds and sew him back together, just to repeat the process over... and over... and over again." The grin of the father was not seen but rather felt as his son spoke. He then lifted his eyes to the rest of his children and waved both hands outwards towards them. "Well... does anyone have a better punishment for this creature of the heavens?" The young woman lounged upon the luxurious red velvet chaise, twirling a strand of silk black hair as her eyes wandered her own piece of hell. Each demon was said to hold a small domain that complemented their sin of destruction. And this room, richly garnished in draping fabrics, low flickering candlelight, and a large padded bed, could belong to none other than Lust herself. She loved the dancing effect the candles gave to the chamber; barely uncovering what was hidden in the shadows of the deep red walls and black trim. Lust’s attention was regrettably drawn back to the flamboyant blonde prancing about the center of the room, chatting endlessly about nothing that mattered to Lust. “Did you see how I lured that angel into our trap? Without me, we never would have caught him; Papa must be so proud to call me his daughter. . .” The girl paused, patting her hair as she gazed into the large mahogany, Victorian vanity along the wall. Lust sighed, sprawling back as she only half listened to Pride’s incessant ramblings. It was easier to let her talk. Although, it was always amusing when Wrath became fed up and challenged Pride. Even so, not everyone shared Lust’s laid back approach to Pride.“We all did it,” Envy snarled, leaning against the wall with crossed arms. She refused to sit upon any of Lust’s belongings for the simple fact that they were not hers. “He needed me as much of you.” Pride hesitated, raising her glare to the green-eyed female. “Yes, but he neededmemore. . .” Before another word could be said, a male with long blonde hair pulled into a ponytail and lavished in jewels floated into the room. “I’m sorry to break up this gossip fest, sisters,” Greed grinned in an elaborate display, “but Daddy dear is ready to decide upon the Angel.” The deaconesses grinned to one another, rising from their positions and filing into the large, evaluation room. A small smile was painted upon Lust’s red lips as she claimed the seat to Father’s immediate left. She was their Lord’s favorite, his prized pet and child. Lust crossed her legs and leaned back into her chair patiently, waiting for what the angel’s fate would be. It was no surprise that Wrath was the first one to jump from his seat, offering some vile torture to break the angel’s will. The demon of Lust did not follow suit in laughing to his pathetic plot. Rather, she found her dark, red tinted gaze trailing along the angel as he waited for his impending fate. Her fingers twisted a strand of hair, chewing her lower lip as something came over her. It was an unfamiliar twinge somewhere inside her, unsettling in many ways. Even so, Lust cleared her throat, eyes focused upon the angel as his fate was offered among the demons. “I do, Father,” she said, licking her lips slowly. “If I may rise.” Lust did not wait for him to grant permission as she rose from her seat, uncrossing her porcelain legs as she walked up to the angel, her long ebony hair flowing behind her. She wore a tight, black-velvet dress with slits down the sides beginning at her waist and leather hatching that covered her cleavage but left little to the imagination. She smiled, looping her finger beneath the angel’s chin and delicately forcing him to look at her. “Let me corrupt his soul,” she said, gazing into his eyes. Lust chuckled, releasing the angel as she turned to face Father in her consultation. “Wrath’s brilliant but childish idea will only satisfy himself. We have one angel, but there are still six out there and waiting.” Lust smiled, pacing around the angel slowly; watching him like a lioness would her prey. He was cute for such a loathsome creature. “I can corrupt him, taint his soul from his loathsome white purity. After that, I can turn him over to you, Father, and use his knowledge of the Virtues to kill every last one of them. Why should we settle for only one?” Lust purred softly, resting her delicate hand upon the angel’s shoulder. “What do you say, Father?” she questioned innocently, despite the confident grin brushed across her lips. The angel listened to the foul creatures around him speak and argue as he awaited their impending doom for him. The one he knew was his opposite had hopped down and was blathering on about causing him immense physical pain. It was the next one to speak that caught him off guard, a female voice called out, and soon he saw her feet nearby. Leopold's face had not been anywhere but to the ground this whole time, but as his chin was lifted to the girl she could see that even in this dire situation, the angel had a lighthearted smile on his lips. Of course, Wrath thought of this as a 'smug grin' instead and became immediately enraged. "What are you grinning at asshole!" The demon hollered before bringing a swift foot to the angels stomach. The only noise he made was the quick intake of air and a small bit of panting. The demon looked at Father and clenched his fists. "Father, this is my enemy, he has been so for thousands of years, I deserve, no I demand that he be given to me!" The room fell silent for a moment, all the other demons looking down, knowing what was to come next. Father's eyes flashed with an unholy gleam, and you could not see it, but all the demons knew he had stopped grinning at the moment the word demand came from the emotional demon lord. "You...demand this, does you? And just who... are you to demand something from me? I am the almighty hell spawn!" With these words Wrath became enveloped in black flames and went into an agonizingly loud scream, his punishment had begun. Father lifted the ignorant pest into the air as the flames scorched the demons body and removed all of his skin. "You demanding anything of me is like a human demanding one of their so-called kings for their own throne! If not for you being my son I would have removed your black soul from your body and personally signed it to ash for even raising your voice at me!" The sensation of Father's smile returning was felt and the flames around Wrath subsided, his flesh slowly rebuilding." Lust, my sweet child... You can have this angel, corrupt him... and make him feel the truest pain of all, losing that which he holds dear." Wrath was set back on his pedestal and Father pointed at Lust while she stood so near to the angel. "And by my decree, Wrath is forbidden in participating in any punishment against the Angel of Patience or his own punishment will be a thousand times more deadly and delivered by me personally." Wrath went wide-eyed at his fathers decree and soon a dark scowl grew to his features before he turned and disappeared out of the room in a burst of raging orange flames. Gluttony had been silent thus far, enjoying the show as he ate from a small back of what seemed to be potato chips. "Oh, father, before we leave, I still smell some angelic devices on the poor sod down there, if I could suggest, you'd might want to have him searched very, very thoroughly before simply handing him over to Lust." A small twinge went off in the angels eyes as he had been discovered. He was hoping to hold onto the few items he had hidden away on his person, but it seemed that down in the pit he was to stay. Father held his hand up and waved it once more towards Lust. "I am sure my sweet daughter can check the angel for any foreign paraphernalia, and enjoy it at the same time. Besides, the manacles upon his wrists prevent him from using any of his holy powers down here, he is as weak as a mere human now." Lust's coy grin never left her pale features when Wrath jumped up to reclaim his ownership of the angel. She suppressed a chuckle of amusement at his childish action. Father was a demon, a combination of all their sins and more. He would never change his mind from a temper-tantrum. It was Lust that knew how to play his games the best, her silk voice able to calm his rage and subtle whispers that sent her wishes to his ears. It was her indirect methods that amused Father, rising to his favorite, rather than the others arguing for their pathetic justice. Perhaps it was her sin that allowed Eurydice the time and thoughtfulness to work on her plans. After all, lust could come immediately, but it was also an emotion that was built upon over time. Lust smiled to Father's decree, her hand slipping from the Angel's shoulder as she took a deep and honorable bow. "Thank you for your generosity, Father," she said coyly, her eyes darting to the angel with pleasure as she rose back to full height. Lust sighed softly, the Angel's smile trickling into her thoughts. She was struck by the simple gesture. How dare he smile to her. He was trapped down here, his body up for auction on how he should be tortured, and yet he still held a smile, and with that smile... Hope. That was an emotion Lust had never known. It sickened her that the angel still managed to cling to it. And it made her even more curious about him. More so than a demon should be of an angel. Eurydice's thoughts are broken as Gluttony's voice wafts through the air. She bit her lip with a scowl, annoyed that she had somehow missed the holy presence upon her new-found pet. "As you wish, Father," Eurydice said softly, a coy grin surprising her annoyance as she turned back to the angel. She licked her lips and grinned, taking him in completely as she stood before him. "So, you thought you could slip by us?" she purred, her hands cupping his face again but refusing to meet his eyes in case he still held the smile. Slowly, Eurydice's hands slid down his neck, her skin surprisings cool against the hot air of hell. Her dancing fingers paused against the chain suspended from the angel's neck, its pendant draping beneath the fabric of his shirt. "Hamm, what is this?" she purred, dragging the chain away from his skin at an agonizing slow rate. Her white teeth flashed with a smile of triumph, claiming the locket as her own, easily sliding it from the angel's neck. "What a pretty trinket you have. I'm sure we can find some good for it," she cooed before tossing it to the ground like a piece of trash. Eurydice grinned, her hands returning to him as they slowly press against every inch of his suspended body. As she rubbed his shoulders, she purposely held her breasts before his face, bending forward to travel down his arms. Her fingers danced along his exposed and covered flesh, her hands firm and tender as she searched for more of the holy trinkets. Satisfied that his arms are clean, Eurydice slid her hands down his stomach, invading any personal sense he may have had. She grinned into his face, her hands sliding over his ass, momentarily caressing his cheeks before continuing down his legs. With a risk of disapproval, Eurydice exposed two daggers, one in each shoe, and gently removed them, careful not to injure her new prize." I'm disappointed you thought you could trick us, Angel. But you will learn, I will make sure of that." The Demons chuckled again, patting his cheek tenderly. "He is clean now Father," she said, turning and presenting the artifacts to her lord. "May I take him now? I wish for privacy with my new pet." Leopold was not one to falter against his enemies, he knew that they looked for weakness every chance they had. Problem was, he felt pretty damn weak right about now. This young female abomination running her hands over him, intentionally pushing her hot, sinful flesh against his body. The locket was the first found and caused only the mildest of twinges in his eyes as he saw her toss it to the ground. An heirloom from his human life, its importance was completely superficial, but it still held a place in his heart. The daggers were more a burden for them to find than an upset for Leopold, he was fairly certain he could take any of these demons in a hand-to-hand battle and win, all on the other hand would be impossible. Sloth lurched forward and practically fell from his seat as he sluggishly moved to pick up the locket. "Hmm, a pretty little piece, hey father, can I have this little shiny trinket." Sloth smirked as he knew there was one other person who was sure to have his eye on the jewelry. For all his sluggishness, Sloth loved instigating his brothers and sisters, mainly because he would surrender if they tried to argue with him, which usually made them direct their aggression towards one another. Red Flames burst from around the daggers and the both disappeared as Wrath took his seat atop his pedestal at fathers direct right. "Foreign weapons are my jurisdiction, so I shall be the first to analyze these and see if we can recreate the holy weapon for ourselves, or simply find a way to nullify its effects." With that he flamed out back to his realm, not wanting any more time near his lost prize. Father knew this and simply waved to the group. "Meeting adjourned, all of you did fantastic my children, now go and reward yourself in whatever way you see fit." Eurydice smiled, watching as the trinkets were claimed by her siblings. She had already received her prize. The other artifacts did not matter to her in the slightest. She stood beside her new pet, waiting for the others to leave before turning to speak with him. She frowned as Greed stepped forward to Sloth, holding out his lavished hand, decorated with many rings. "Sloth, you should let me have that," he said, looking down to the demon like a spoiled prince. "I know more of enchanted gems than you do. And beyond that, it will look better on me if I wear it." Lust sighed deeply and rolled her eyes, deciding that she was wasting time by listening to her brothers squabble over the trinket. Without another word, Eurydice placed her hand on her prize's shoulder and squeezed it gently. "Goodnight, brothers," she purred softly. With that, both Eurydice and the angel were devoured by a deep blue flame, transporting them to her realm of Hell. Eurydice smiled, releasing the angel's shoulder as she stepped into the center of her room, holding her arms into the air as she spun slowly. "Until I say differently, this will be your new home." Eurydice grinned, coming back to him as she circled him slowly, thankful for the privacy of her walls. "Stand for me, my pet. Let me see what I have," she commanded, her lush lips turned into a Cheshire grin. "You should be thanking me, Angel of Patience. You would have suffered terribly if my brother Wrath had gotten his hands on you. Now at least you will be able to enjoy your punishment," she cooed tenderly. Having the blue flame envelop him, Leopold seemed only interested in the floor directly at his front and nothing more. She demanded he stand, and he did so but only because his knees were getting a bit stiff. This hellish plane seemed to be causing unusual effects on his body. In his home he felt no pain or sinful desires, but now his knees ached, and he felt regret for not seeing the move taken by the demons. He did not expect their father to take a hand in the battle, since there was no way his factions' leader would do such a thing, it would undermine the entire sanctity of the battle. As the woman began her tactics to break the angels will he lifted his face to look straight ahead and spoke in a slow, soothing voice. "I do not thank that which corrupts souls. I am an angel of the seven virtues, there is nothing you or your insecure little brother could so to cause me any harm. I am protected from such things by my right as an angel. So do your worst, take your time, I will keep track of how long it takes you to realize this whole ploy is pointless. After his small speech to the demon of lust he began to speak in Latin a small prayer of patience as he waited for her to continue. Even as she spoke he would mutter the prayer under his breath. If nothing else the prayer gave him a bit more hope and strength to hold on while his brothers and sisters devised a plan to get him back from the hellish plane. He knew the demons had an advantage over him, but he wouldn't let them know that until they ripped it from his deepest inner consciousness. Eurydice blinked with surprise as the angle spoke, listening carefully to his words as he gazed into the distance fiercely. As he continued his ramble, Eurydice's lips grew into a smile, chuckling deeply to what he had to say. She was impressed by his resolve, the strength he attempted to show her. But yet, what else should she have expected from the angel of patience? She would have been disappointed with anything less. The demons stepped forward and wrapped her arm around his neck tenderly, standing on her toes to reach his height. "Shhh, it's okay," Eurydice purred, resting a delicate finger across his lips in meager attempt to silence him. "I do not want any harm to come to you." She smiled up to him, her dark eyes meeting his as she pressed her bosom against his chest. "At least, I'll only get the whips and chains if that is how care to play," she whispered into his ear. Eurydice chuckled, nipping his neck gingerly as she untangled herself from him. She began to busy herself around the room, glancing to her angel from time to time. "I do not intend to throw myself at you for the moment. Though it would be easy for me to take you now or whenever I pleased. But what fun would that be? No, I'm going to make you want my body. Tease you until your thoughts become tainted black of only me. You were once a human. Worst of all, you were a male," she explained slowly, twisting a strand of midnight hair between her fingers. "No matter how pure you thought you were, lust still lived inside you. And it still does. Tell me, how many women have you fucked through your immortal years?" She smiled to him, sitting down in her lounge and crossing her legs, allowing the slit in her dress to expose her creamy thighs. "Oh please, how rude of me. Please, sit. Make yourself comfortable, Angel," she said, sweeping her hands to the side. "I have no tricks. And you might as well accept my offer as you won't be leaving here anytime soon. Would like something to eat or drink? You'll need your energy for when you do decide to please me. So what will it be? A beer, vodka, margarita? Or are you more the tea type?" Leopold's eye twitched lightly as the woman moved to press against him and place her soft, delicate fingers against his lips. It had been millennia since the physical contact of another being had graced his form. It was foreign and yet very familiar all at once. He tried to his the sudden wave of goosebumps that washed over him, but it was more than likely seen by his captor. A small click of his tongue revealed his disapproval of her vulgar whispers as he turned his head away. The teeth on his neck again caused a shudder in his spine, but he held it back with all of his might. He could not show this woman that his body still remembered what it was like. He had been an angel for quite some time, but unlike his brothers and sisters, he remembers his human life, mainly through the trinket that was taken from him not but a few minutes ago. His wife was the most wonderful creature in his eyes and the two could do no wrong. The funny thing about the two of them was, they weren't even very religious. Leopold had always said during his human life that a man makes himself good through his own choices, not by some preordained rule of a higher being. His wife believed that the father still judged you but that it was up to you to do what you believed. The two lived a very peaceful and good willed life, save for the bedroom. The two were always very passionate lovers, experiencing each other in ways that most humans barely even dreamed of doing. The only thing that saved them from being minions of the very woman that held Leopold captive now, was that they did not begin the journey of immense passion until after it was guarded by the sanctity of marriage. The angel gave his guard a rather repulsed look as he shook his head. "Sex, is not needed in my home. Everyone is filled with the feeling of fulfillment and bliss from the moment they open their eyes to the time they so choose to close them. So if you must no, I have only ever had one lover, My wife from when I was a living human male." Even now his mind flooded back to his wife of old and as he was offered a seat he smiled and found the closest one before setting himself in it very proper, his posture was immaculate. "Actually, I've always been a fan of hot chocolate." He began speaking in a much calmer manner, he knew she was right in one respect, he was going to be here for a good chunk of time. He decided that he may as well be calm as he waited for his brothers and sisters to figure out a way into the fiery pits. Eurydice grinned as the angel was affected by her touch, wondering if this would perhaps be easier than she first expected. She wanted to lean into him more, enchanted by the texture of his skin, but knew that her efforts would work best in small doses. Taking her seat, she was disappointed that the angel did not select his seat out of comfort but merely convenience. It would be like his kind to act that way. Uncaring and unbiased to their own desires. As he spoke down to her, Eurydice scoffed to his words, grinning as his feeble attempts to convince himself that his game would last. She was about to retort with comments before her lips froze into silence. A wife? Her dark eyes turned back to her prey, watching him closely with a new fascination. Was his kind allowed to remember their mortal days? Or had he somehow slithered through the cracks unseen? Her Father held ultimate power over her family. He had erased their memories of all but the day they joined him, claiming their lives were pathetic and worthless before they made the wise decision of bowing down to him. Occasionally dream of familiar people would taunt the young Lust, but no names could ever be drawn from her frustrated mind. She blinked slowly, her brows furrowing as she gazed into his downcast face. Was that. . . . Sadness? Eurydice frowned, unsure why this unsettles herself so. Emotions were for those of the weak, not something that a demon would need to care about. And with the angel so clearly wearing his feelings upon his sleeve, tainting him would be even easier. And yet, these thoughts did not encourage her at all. She wanted to... comfort him?" Hot chocolate? That should be easy enough." Eurydice scowled to herself as she rose, walking past him briskly into the small kitchen that was off of her room. These cabinets were enchanted like much of her lair. No matter what, she would always find what she desired somewhere in the room. "Would you like some marshmallows also?" she shouted back mockingly. Even if she was joking about it with him, she spied the small fluffy beings and popped on in her mouth and moaned softly, almost having forgotten what they tasted like. Bringing the water to a boil quickly, Eurydice found two mugs and dispersed powder and the steaming water into it equally. She considered tainting the drinks with alcohol, but found herself unreceptive to the thought. Loading a tray with the drinks, a dish of marshmallows, and a platter of assorted cookies, Eurydice returned to the room and set it down on the table next to the lounge. The table was some distance from where the angel currently resided. She was curious if he would take his treats and retreat back or chose a location closer to the snacks and herself. Eurydice blew on her drink after dropping three or four fluffy clouds inside, taking a small sip but careful not to burn herself. "I don't think I've had hot chocolates in centuries," she said softly, enjoying the rich liquid swirling around her tongue. "Good suggestion, angel," she said with a smile, leaning back into her seat and watching him carefully. "Please, don't be shy. Take whatever you like. I'm sure you didn't have much to satisfy yourself while in my brother's clutches." Leopold chuckled his mind moving to the days his wife had asked the same question. He mumbled under his breath as the demon continued her work behind him. "You're the only sweets I need, sugar." he chuckled to himself his mind taunting him with memories that this woman and her realm continued to bring back. Thoughts and actions that the man wanted so dearly to repeat with his beloved, but sadly she was nowhere to be found. The angel sipped casually on the warm beverage sighing in contentment for its flavor. "Centuries? It feels like millennia since I've had my own. The taste is still so wonderful, even down here." Setting the mug down the holy being looked at his guard and smiled warmly. "So, how is it living in an eternal pit of fire and brimstone, I bet the cooling bill must be a fortune." Leopold crossed his hands over his lap and held his eyes on the woman. He surely wasn't going to back down from a conversation. His brothers and sisters may claim these creatures to be vile and putrid but being a man of patience, he never jumped to conclusions." May I also add that you may want to teach your brother some proper guest tending etiquette. I don't believe most guests would want to have their backs lashed at with anything, especially a burning cat o' nine tails." Shaking his head the man sighed and let his wings stretch carefully in the room that he was allowed. He wasn't sure if this woman was truly going to try and play her games, but even if she was, he was more than confident in his abilities to deny her. Even if her eyes gave him a certain sensation that he had not felt for quite some time. Eurydice smiled contently as the Angel spoke, her dark, red tinted eyes focused upon him. His actions surprised the Demons as he struck up a conversation rather than leaving her to rattle away pleasantries in the silence. It was not an unpleasant surprise either. She leaned back in her throne, a lush velvet couch, and crossed her porcelain legs. The hem of her gown shifted, allowing her legs to peak through the long slits the length of her sides in the skirt. She smiled to this, allowing her curves to be admired by this holy being if he so chooses. And as a male, how could he resist?" The heat is tolerable," she cooed, a faint smile brushing against her lips. "Father wants to keep his precious children comfortable, after all. And when it does grow too warm, well there is no shame in losing a layer of clothing. Feel free to take your shirt of if you are uncomfortable. Or your pants, there is no judgement here," she purred. Eurydice chuckled and rolled to her side, resting her head on her palm as she gazed to her new toy. "Even if you protest now, eventually you will be happy to remove your garments upon my request." The Demons laughed, a wicked smile growing at the image of an Angel begging to use him for her pleasure. She lazily gazed upon his body as he stretch his wings, taken aback by his wing span. Her own back was currently smooth, save for the large winged tattoo that traveled her body. It was a spell granted by Father. She could remove her wings at will and transform them into ink. With her sin, wings could make laying with a lover painful when on her back for extended periods." Yes, my brother Wrath has a bit of a temper. I suppose it comes with the territory of his sin; you are lucky father was willing to protect you. Wrath went rather easy on you." Eurydice twisted her face into a mock of concern, rising from her perch and crossing the barrier between them before settling to his side. "Did he hurt you at all?" she questioned, entwining her fingers with his. She traced his jawline with a delicate finger, remembering where Wrath had struck him. "Do not lie to me, Angel. If you are in pain I want to help you." Leopold could only shake his head at the demons' ploy. She surely couldn't think that by simply saying it would be so that he would simply submit. He assumed she simply wanted t pat herself on the back and continued to smile onward to her. That is until she moved to touch him once more. Her skin was so foreign and yet for some reason that the angel could only see as malevolent, it felt right. When she placed her finger upon his jawline he reached up slowly and took it away." The true father keeps pain away from my heart. The body I wear may be worn, but my spirit cannot be touched. As long as I hold true to my virtue I shall stay pure." The angel spoke confidently to the woman before opening his eyes and nodding. "I do appreciate your concern though. So very 'humane' of you." the angel smirked knowing most demons hated being compared to humans. Leaning back in his chair once more he picked up his mug and continued to sip, not even waiting to blow on the hot drink. Even as a human he did this, he remembered because his wife always yelled at him for that. It pained him now to remember her standing before him and yet, he could not remember her face. It had been so long since he was with her that now all he saw was a blur." So, what else do you have in store for me while I am held in this chamber hmm? Maybe a rousing game of chess? Or perhaps an old time strategy game? A bout of Go even?" The smiling angel looked to his host now and assumed she would have a clever retort but h expected nothing less from a creature that was known for 'toying' with her prey. He was at least going to be enjoyable while stuck in this literal hellhole. Eurydice grumbled softly and returned to her throne, annoyed that the Angel had the audacity to compare her to a simple mortal. She slunk into her chair and curled her feet beneath herself, her posture and gaze upon the Angel remarkably similar to those of a feline. She focused upon only him as he calmly sipped from his drink, her body tense before forcing herself to relax. In any other situation, she would have slipped into his lap and begun her voyage in corrupting his soul. Yet, she had different plans for this one. His touch had effected her, his pure skin calming the sinful desires within her body. That was not supposed to happen. The demons decided that she would need to alter her game with this one. Quick lunges would bring her nowhere. Instead, she would have to find a way to draw upon the lust hidden within his past mortal so he would come to her. The more she pushed, the more we would pull away. It was time to loosen the reigns upon her new toy. The demons shimmied in back into her seat, increasing her comfort as she interrogated the angel with her glare, surprised that he was able to return her gaze with such ease. "My concern is that I do not want to lose my new toy so quickly," she returned slowly. "It would be a shame if Wrath finished you off before we even had any fun together." She frowned as he took a sip of drink and shook her head in disappointment. "Really? Angel, that was made with the literal Fires of Hell. Blow on it to cool it down for the love of Lucifer. I don't want you to hurt yourself after surviving Wrath. Death by hot chocolate, that would be one for the books." Eurydice smiled, a soft laugh bubbling from her lips. It had been awhile since she had laughed honestly. It felt... Nice. She shook her head to clear her thoughts and shrugged, settling into her chair easily. "We can do whatever you like," she purred. "I like to keep my pets happy. After all, I do honestly want this to be fun for the both of us. There is no need to rush the natural process that I know will happen eventually." She flashed him a bright smile, resting her chin upon her hand. "If I could have my pick, I would love to play dress up with you. Orb should I say, dress down, but I know. I know. You are much to proper for that. So, you can pick our first activity together. You cannot leave this domain without my permission, so I am not worried about you running away." She smiled to him, twisting a stand of black hair between her fingers. "What do you Angels do for fun up upon your clouds?" Leopold chuckled at the Demons as she scolded him for drinking his hot chocolate so carelessly. He playfully blew on the drink and set it down without taking another sip, just to tease her. "If that's true this place isn't as horrid as I was led to believe, Hot chocolate at the perfect temperature for me, certainly the truest of sinful delights." A mildly louder laugh echoed erupted from the Angels' throat before he stood and began rubbing his chin. The angel did feel a slight twinge at Eurydice calling him her pet, but he didn't show it outright. When the Demons asked about his home a certain light shined on the Angels face as he turned to look at her once more. "Well, my Sister Kindness and I loved watching the humans to see which were following our paths and bestowing luck and good tidings upon them and their families. It's a sad truth but Most people who have a hand in one Virtue, usually have the other in one of your families homes as well. The world is very gray down there... I still hold hope that the humans will find their eternal resting place with the true father." The eyes of Leopold were glimmering now, as if radiating his hope into the surrounding area. He certainly had no power here in her domain, but his words held power even when he was a simple human. Letting his moment of confidence subside he took a step back and sat back in his seat. "Well, I don't suppose you'd want to aid the humans in any way, so maybe we'd best do what me and my brother Diligence would do, a humans board game. Any is fine, I do love them all." Eurydice watched with interest as passion flickered across the angel's face when he spoke of mortals and his home. His delight for the weak humans was sickening. They were pathetic creatures that did not deserve the attention of mighty beings such and herself. The only time she and her siblings would watch the humans, as the angel suggested, was when the Demons waged bets against who could corrupt the most souls. It was surprisingly easy, even to those that were considered the most pure. Politicians were her brother Greed's favorite toys of all." The world is gray," she acknowledges, curling into her throne slightly. "And unfortunately for your kind, it only grows darker with each day. It is so easy for the human's weak minds to fall into temptation. Once they taste the forbidden fruit that my siblings offer, it is impossible for them to realign themselves with the pure. They form an addiction to our sin, one that so few are strong enough to break away from." Eurydice rose from her seat and shook her head with an amused smile as she drew a deep breath. "Your faith in their strength is pathetic. You should just accept that all humans are filthy beings that hide from their sins and pretend as if they can stay within heavens light. At least we demons are able to accept our flaws and enjoy them." She strolled behind his chair, standing behind him as she brushed his neck with her cool hands. "You should learn to enjoy the sins that tempt you. Life is so much more amusing when you stop fighting your desires." She grinned and patted his cheek, continuing on her way across the room. The demons knelt upon the ground before a large chest, opening it up to reveal a collection of dusty, forgotten games that she had no true purpose for. Her blue eyes sifted through the titled with disinterest. After a long pause, she finally selected the cubed board of Back, or Go as the angel himself had referenced. She decided it would be easier to start with something they were both familiar with. Collecting the stone markers, she returned to the table and settled to the ground comfortable upon a large cushion. "Would you like to join me?" she purred, gazing upward at him with an outstretched hand in welcoming. "And am I to assume you prefer the white stones?"

The Corruption of Patience [DylanTheVillain & Lady Hecate]|rating:4.0

Lords of the Elements

Turn 1, Spartan invisible wave of magical energy washed over Chaos. And deep inside floating mountains of rock, something stirred. Six ancient creatures awoke from their sleep and, using the energy of the wave, crafted their domains and first servants from the elemental matter. Things were different now, after their Eon long sleep: in the whirling sea of Chaos now hung floating rocks, some miles in diameter and others only a few hundred meters. And in the middle of it all, the one thing you still remember: Mount Olympus, the home of the gods, reaching up miles and miles and miles, until it vanished in the gray darkness of the Void above. It was on the slopes of this mountain that the Gods defeated the Titans, or what little had remained of them after the Gods had drained their strength and used it to create mortals. Only six of your kind remain, of the hundreds there once were. The Three Ladies had gone first, to plead before the gods to let the Titans live, to give them back a measure of their strength before they faded. The gods had laughed and imprisoned them in a prison of silver and crystal. The War bringers went next, the Lords of Hammer, Blade and Shield, to take revenge on the gods with their armies, and with them many other titans, all to be slain or imprisoned. But now, now you are awake again. You can feel the souls of mortals coming into your new domains, and feel the power bleeding from them. The time to regain your Glory has come. Faint voices drift on the wind, across the boiling chaos, whispering the prayers of mortals to listening ears:Wolves"We will never make it to the forts. They will get us, even before the blizzard will. Merciful gods, don't let my children die! I swear, I'll become a monk, or a priest, but save my family!" Spoiler Hide Can be solved with combat (medium difficulty), trickery (hard) or control (easy). Reward: 1 cultist, chance to corrupt another one. Raiders of the Wastes"Men! The Raiders outnumber us four to one, and half of you are injured. Some say the gods have abandoned us, but I say: that's heretics talking! As it has been since the beginning of time, the gods have saved those who believed in them! So fight, and believe, and you will see, they will fight with us, as it has always been!" Spoiler Hide Can be solved with Leadership (medium difficulty), Control (medium difficulty) or Combat (very hard). Reward: 10 power points, chance to convert a cultist. The Inquisition"The gods may have abandoned us, but someone, something has to listen! Please! The Inquisition is coming. They are burning people on the streets as heretics. Please, do not let me die today... All the ancient artifacts, everything, take it, but let me live! Spoiler Hide Can be solved with Trickery (hard), Persuasion (hard) or Combat (hard). Reward: Choose 1 artifact from a list The Forge Master The Forge Master looked out at the world and laughed. He was alive as were five others, it wasn't enough yet to defeat the gods but with enough buildings, servants and souls he was sure it would be. Of course, it would never be if the six of them didn't work together. If they fought against each other, they'd be doomed. The Forge Master sent a message to each of his fellow Titans. "We should split up the islands. Let's take the large island to our lefts and the two small islands we're linked to." Then he heard the cries of the mortals. Spoiler Hide Sending the Imp to wolves Awakening from his long slumber, RAM surveyed the surrounding landscape. Much had changed. In the distance he could see Mount Olympus, stronghold of the hated Gods, breakers of the Immortal laws. They must be punished. But first things first ... the rule of law must be firmly re-established on the Outer Rim. I must bide my time and build my power lest the errors of the past be repeated. He looked to the left, and he looked to the right. These should suffice for now. A small, greenish-Grey little creature scurried quickly off to the left, and a chitinous gray bug-looking creature slowly made its way to the right. Hearing then the message from the Forge Master, RAM broadcasts his own reply: "Forge Master, your claims are baseless. You have no power of law to make nor enforce such a proposal. I will do what is necessary to prepare myself to defeat the Gods, as is my sworn duty in restoring the Immortal Law which they have violated. This includes taking the island to your left. If you have a problem with this, take it up with the Judge. Oh, wait ..." Then, hearing the cries from the mortal world and seeing that his servants were busily carrying out his will here, he prepared to make himself known to the mortal world. ActionsSpoiler Hide Immediate: Gremlin is sent to Island L4 to bind itself to that hearthstone Immediate: Drone is sent to Island L3 to bind itself to that hearthstone Immediate: RAM attempts to answer "Raiders of the Wastes" Edit: added an action; RAM attempts Summoning "Raiders of the Wastes" She felt the strange energy. Let it wash over her, disturbing her sleep. She opened her eyes and saw only darkness. The Earth trembled beneath her feet, and the sky opened up. She stretched and yawned, shaking dirt off her. It had been so long. She looked around, and her eyes narrowed at what she saw: Mount Olympus. Then the memories came back. She looked around her, and she could feel. Six. Six titans were left, and just awakening. So she was not alone. It would make the revenge on the Gods all the sweeter if they worked together. But would the alliance hold for a common interest, she had no idea. She looked around her. It was a plain floating island. She imagined it how she wanted, and instantly it began to change. She drew energy from the Chaos and large trees and overgrown vegetation appeared. Tiny spirits (sparks) appeared before her, as well as two lesser servants. It was all she had, but it would have to do. She rose and set about to work. She listened to the messages and silently agreed to them. For now. I will hold true to that if others will. She responded back. Spoiler Hide Immediate: Mother Earth shall answer The Inquisition herself. Immediate: Glyph and Kobold shall go to L5, and kobold will bind itself. The Soft Dark stretches forth from its holdings, its Domain slowly filling with dark mist, all within its preview shifting to its form of beauty. It yawned with a powerful sound, and the realm it controlled shuddered. And then…he heard them. Voices of others. Such beautiful sound! Such interesting sound! He would answer them. He whispered in the cold night, the stars and the moon the only witnesses to his actions. ActionsSpoiler Hide The Soft Dark himself attempts to answer the Raiders of the Wastes The Soft Dark sends his Alp to attune to the Hearthstone in L5 The Soft Dark commands his Familiar to build a Power conduit in his home region The Writhing Master Long forgotten roots and limbs, cracked and empty, found themselves filled with life once again as the great wave passed through the tomb of the Writhing Master. The sleeping spark of his intelligence - fanned now into a full and jealous fire - stretched itself out to the very edge of her domain, and opened its eyes to gaze upon the mortal world. Their desperation was intoxicating, desires begging to be provoked and tamed. Awakened now, and hungry, the Writhing Master responded. Immediate Actions:Spoiler Hide 1 - Send Imp to L1, bind to region. 2 - Send Brooding to respond to Wolves (Combat) 3 - Writhing Master responds to the Inquisition (Persuasion) Waiting to hear the reactions of the others, RAM felt as though something were missing. Then it hit him. He began to hum to himself, and before long the very domain itself arose in song, loudly proclaiming itself to all who would hear. And if the boys want to fight you better let 'em, he thought to himself. From time to time, the islands shake in unseen currents, as streams of fire and ice, sludge and wind move beneath them. The thin threads of crackling, orange energy remain static, even as titanic servants crossed the narrow gaps between the floating mountains. Spoiler Hide What's that video there, moody? Apparently, YouTube doesn't allow me to watch it. IOC: The video is of Thin Lizzy's "The Boys are Back in Town." It's not metal, but I did say I claimed Rock and Roll as a minor essence. Expect musical commentary as a regular feature of my domain. Malcolm The clouds passed over head as their shadows raced across the green field. The light reached through Malcolm's closed eyelids with a strobing effect. He blinked once as his eyes refocused. The soft grass lay gently against his left cheek. For a moment he watched the shadows pass by as the grass danced in the wind, then he slowly sat up. Looking into the sky, he spotted the source of light that seemed to fight with the passing clouds for dominance. Then he noticed a smaller light approaching him, as if born from the bright spot in the sky. It stopped right before his very eyes and seemed to stare at him, though Malcolm could not make out any face upon the ball of light. Then he smiled. Hello, my name is Malcolm. Malcolm could sense a smile from the light orb, though he could not see it. And as he continued to stare at the orb, the ground began to shake. Suddenly, large crystals began to emerge from beneath the grassland. Malcolm watched calmly as the crystals filled the plain, ending with a small circle of crystals around him. Then Malcolm noticed an odd creature atop one of the nearest crystals. It was short and silvery, with a long tail and two small horns. It then climbed down the crystal and approached him upon all fours. Malcolm pondered on the look of the creature then focused his attention to the distance. Not to stare at the horizon, but instead as if to stare at himself. A light began to encompass the small boy as a boyish clothes transformed into a well tailored suit. Then a small white horn appeared upon his forehead along with two small white wings and a long white spaded tail. Malcolm smiled. Looks like we woke up. He said, speaking to his two servants as ten small orbs appeared near him. Then he heard the words of others who had awoken. And it seems we are just as divided now as we were then. Malcolm then looked up at the large mountain outside his domain. Well, time to get to work! ActionsSpoiler Hide 3 sparks will build wards - 6 pp 3 sparks will build defenses - 6 pp Candle Spirit will extract power from souls Imp will research Arcane Malcolm will research Arcane Malcolm will attempt to answer "Wolves" and "The Inquisition" Mother Earth The souls set about to work, having had their instructions given to them. Defending her country against intruders was necessary. She couldn't afford her backside to be weak. Earth trenches inscribed with insignias were being built. Spoiler Hide - 2 PP to give the kobold Tooth and Claw before it leaves. Have a soul build a ballista - 4 PP Have 3 souls build wards - 6 PP Have 3 souls build defenses - 6 PP 3 souls, 2 PP, 2 titan actions left. Wolves forest of tall, dark trees, ground covered in snow, the sky cloudless but black, no stars or moon visible. In the distance, a colossal glacier is visible, a wall of ice more than three hundred feet high, and glowing in a flickering, blue light from within. A woman is hiding under a tree, a child in her arms, both clothed in furs so thick that barely anything of them is visible. Two men are present: the younger one, twenty perhaps, is holding a torch in one hand and a long, rusty knife in the other, peering out into the darkness, two dozen hungry eyes peering back. The older man is on his knees, his head facing the ground, his hands folded in silent prayer. RaidersA wide dirt road winds up between two mountains. At the highest point of the pass, where the road narrows down between sheer cliffs and only three men could pass side to side stands a watchtower and a wooden palisade. The view is clear: on one side, farmland and forests, but on the other a flat plain stretching out to the distant horizon, covered in fine ash, smoke drifting above it in the wind. Near a dozen men are standing behind the palisade, which goes to their chests, and another dozen lie on the floor, dead or dying. Their hands hold spears and shields, which are covered in broken arrows. And below them on the road the source of the attack: fifty or sixty warriors, their horses left behind. Where the men on the mountaintop are covered in leather and mail, these attackers wear furs and ragged shirts, holding daggers, clubs, crude spears and many of them short bows. They are charging for the next attack. The Inquisition The old man was shaking and breathing heavily, his wide and stained robe hiding the thin body beneath. Hastily, he was throwing various small and large packages and half a dozen heavy tomes into a hole hidden beneath his narrow bed, then jumped in himself, first awkwardly drawing the bed back, then closing the heavy trap door from below. Moments later the door to the small tavern in the front room was shattered, and two soldiers in heavy plate armor stormed into the room, spears drawn, one of them kicking over a keg of beer. Behind them stood the inquisitor himself, a stern-looking young man with short beard, wearing a plain, red shirt and wide black trousers, barefoot, but with a heavy silver amulet of a seven-pointed star around his neck. The Soft Dark came when the moon was full, whispering words into the mortal’s ears. His avatar stretched deep into the world from the pale moonlight, his eyes glinting like stars. And then suddenly, the skies clouded over, the charging men losing his words as that silver disk slipped behind the satin curtain of night. The Soft Dark was cut off from the mortal world, the humans left to what ever fate would befall them, saddened…but not deterred. He would be back in the mortal world. And for his failure in the mortal world, he belched forth another creation, a dark misty form of claws and eyes. ActionsSpoiler Hide Raise Soul to Spark, and promote it to Alp, granting it the Nebulous ability The Inquisitor looked around the tavern, nothing seemingly out of place. But often first looks were deceiving. He stepped into the tavern, his shoes creaking on the wooden floor. The mail from the two guards behind him clanked as they followed. The crowd watched the men step in. Murmurs could be heard, but no one moved a muscle. The man brought forth a picture from beneath his cloak. I am looking for this man. Where is he? No one answered him. He turned to the bartender. What room is he in? Sssssecond door on the left. He whimpered and pointed upstairs. The man nodded, and put the picture away. He headed up. The two guards remained at the entrance. She SAR waiting on the bed as the man entered, opening the door without knocking. His eyes immediately fell to her, and gave her a once look over. Then he glanced around the room. The entire room was a mess, having been cleaned in a hurry. Who are you?he asked. Expecting a solid answer. She smiled back at him. I am whatever you want me to be. She said, standing up and heading toward him. The man frowned at her obvious approach. I have no time for cheap harlots such as yourself. Where was the man that was here? I am looking for him. He heard that you were looking for him and left in such a hurry. Didn't even give me my money for the evening. He packed some stuff into a large bag and headed out the back entrance. This was about 10 minutes ago. I assume he is gone by now if an Inquisitor was looking for him. The man glanced at her once more. You shall come with me for questioning. She held her smile. Then rubbed against him pleasingly. But why would you want to bring me in? Wouldn't it be more enjoyable if we stayed here. I could bring some friends if need be. The man licked his lips, not knowing the magic that surrounded him. Very well. I suppose I can come back at a later time. Such a shame that I could not apprehend him. He will not come back here again. So there is no point to return. The Inquisitor thought for a moment. Hmmmm. That is true. I would see you out, but I do believe you have more important matters to attend to. So I shall kiss you goodbye. And she did, lightly on the lips. The man struggled for words, but found none. He left the room and took the guards with him. She waited for a moment before speaking. Come out. He is gone. No one spoke. I know you're hiding underneath the bed. After a moment's hesitation the lock clicked open, and the bed was shoved aside. The man peered out. Is he gone?he asked quietly. She nodded. He climbed out and started jumping around gleefully. Thank you! Know that I have saved your life. Serve me well, and it will be a long one. Now... Mother Earth stood and watched the scene play out. Time to take another trip. A different one. Malcolm There was a near silent growl as the wolves began to advance. Those that could see the impending doom screamed in horror and looked away. The young man readied his blade to strike, but a flash of light interrupted the wolves' advance. The being that appeared before them seemed to glow blue, emitting his own source of light. The humans behind him stared wide-eyed at his form. Malcolm looked up into the dark sky and pointed at a spot in the clouds. Instantly, an opening appeared casting moonlight directly upon him. When the villagers looked back down from the spectacle, their focus back on Malcolm, they saw that he had somehow summoned his own pack of wolves. They were bigger and seemed intent on attacking the other wolves. Slowly, the smaller wolves began to back away from the outnumbering force. To save their lives they would have to run, and so they turned away and retreated. Malcolm's wolves chased and scattered the other wolves into the wilderness before vanishing as illusions. A calm returned to the villagers. Are you a Titan? Yes, I am a Titan. Malcolm turned and smiled at the village leader. Then he looked at the others in the caravan. I know not why the gods have abandoned you, but I can tell you that their power is waning. How can you know such a thing? Malcolm looked at the young man and chuckled quietly. Because I wouldn't be here right now. And it would have been one of them who would have answered your prayer. But I tell you this, if you follow me, I shall not abandon you. You shall be the first to know my presence and the bearers of my name. If? You are giving us a choice? Malcolm looks to the old man. It was your father that summoned me, and it is he who is indebted to follow me. But you have the option of heeding my word and my power. And what is the name of our savior? Malcolm. RAM returns from his forays into Chaos exhausted. He slumps down in his favorite easy chair and tries to strike up a conversation with the Drone. What a long, strange trip it's been. As I was walking along, all of a sudden I came into contact with the void. I stared into the abyss, and it stared back at me. I saw that it was not my time, that the void did not call for me. *dramatic pause* It called for the gods. It knew I could and would bring them back and cast them into the void, so it let me go. Now, sometimes, I sort of flicker. It is the void reminding me that I live on borrowed time, and for one purpose only. Later, I came upon a deep pool. Curious, I removed my armor and swam down. At the bottom I discovered the most beautiful gem. I think I did not know my own strength, for when I finally touched it, it shattered. But in shattering, it yielded up its power to me, power which will aid my crusade against the gods. Finally, I encountered a bubble in the sea of Chaos. I reached out to touch it, but it disappeared. Whatever mysteries it held, I was not ready to share in them. Your story is pleasing to me, master, replied the drone in its dull monotone. I suppose dullness is the price one pays for loyalty ... *sigh* One day I'll have more interesting servants ... The Mortal World Anew star was shining brightly in the evening sky, half the size of a man's fist and nearly outshining the sinking red sun. Near a hundred citizens were gathered on the market square to watch the spectacle that was about to begin. A young man was tied to a pole, on a pile of dry wood, in the middle of the square. He was wearing a torn red shirt, and blood was running over his chin." The Gods have sent us a sign!", an inquisitor proclaimed, torch in one hand, pointing at the star with the other. "They are testing us. The burning plains, the abyss, the rimfire and the raiders, they are sorting out those lacking faith. And now they have sent us this star, a light in the darkness, to show us that they are still with us. "Hear me! In this age of blood and darkness, we must be more vigilant than ever. Heretics can hide everywhere, even in the inquisition. Do you see this man? He was sent to seize a sorcerer, and what did he do? A few sweet words from a whore, and he let him escape! The gods do not abide such weakness!" He threw the torch. First Conflict The shard was huge, several miles in all directions, an uneven piece of rock and rubble. It took many hours to reach the center, and then to find the headstone, a black gem, high as a tree. It was a small creature, shadowy black, that moved towards the stone, preparing itself for the ritual that would make it leader of its own small domain. But from behind a large, gray boulder, two pairs of eyes were watching... A low growl could be heard from behind the stones. The creature raised it eyes to see two figures step out from behind a boulder. A kobold stepped out, its fangs and claws extended past normal length. It flexed its hand. Leave now, and you may leave. Put up a fight, and you will die. This is your only warning.it said through its teeth, in near perfect common. The glyph stood next to him waiting for a response.IOC: You can leave now, and they won't chase, or fight and die. Your choice. The shadow gave a single hiss, rushing back with the information to its homeland The kobold watched the creature run off and smiled slightly, then the preparations for the ritual began again; the same ones it had been doing. At this point, the creature had already been forgotten. Mother Earth stared into the endless chaos before taking a step forward. She stood upside down on a staircase, but that didn't bother her. She continued forward, defying the laws of physics but taking no heed of it. Soon enough she found her feet on solid ground. Before her stood a small valley, but that wasn't what had interested her. An odd metal stuck out of the ground, she touched, and instantly her thoughts swarmed her. She knew how to develop metal. Metal better than anything The Forge Master could ever come up with. The way to bind the metal to the souls, link it, making it more powerful. Proper techniques and more effective ways to bend and make metal. She rushed away from the metal and back to camp. She was happy and was about to tell the others when she thought about it again..... she couldn't remember what she had been thinking. All the knowledge she had was gone, well most of it. She knew how to form metal, even though she never worked with it before. She spent the rest of the day trying to remember what it was she remembered. The sky of the Domain of the Soft Dark churned, whispers of long past people whip through the shadow of the mountains and trees, the world of silence and cold darkness glowed with heat for but a moment, the sparks of energy flowed to the towering structures that sat in the rain shadow of the tallest peaks of the Domain. The lone familiar, a long tarnished bronze snake, coiled around its surface, the power source flickering and sparking its blinding light into the surrounding region. And soon, as the Sparks descended into the great towering structure, their power building inside the monolithic beast that it would soon become. And the Soft Dark drew away from its holdings, its lose of the land so near to it was a concern. And that only meant it needed to grow stronger, larger, smarter. And it drew on secret knowledge, seeking to grow. Earth may endure. But there shall always be darkness. ActionsSpoiler Hide 9 Sparks aid in the construction of the Power Conduit The Soft Dark research’s both Arcane and Shadow Turn 2, Start Creatures were marching across the deserted rocks floating in chaos, claiming new territories for the one or other Titan. Domains were growing, servants created and defenses built. But the gods were silent. Not a word, no movement or reaction from the towering mount Olympus, its slopes covered in snow or forest, it's cloud-concealed summit. New souls were streaming into chaos, to be consumed, used or changed by the waiting Titans, to provide them with the power to prevail against each other or the gods... Summoning One: Black Abyss Astern voice and calm, but frantically praying like a mill. The impression is vague, a man in a brown leather coat, collar raised against rain coming against him almost horizontally, his hat, tied down with a cord flapping in a stormy wind and towering waves crashing down around the ship he is standing on, a small vessel, but in good shape, the name "Storm daughter" painted on the prow in green letters." I'll sacrifice generously, if you save me and my crew from this storm, and keep us from the Abyss. A quarter of my goods shall be given to whomever saves me, be it gods or water spirits, Captain Saharan holds his promises." Suddenly, the scenery changes: the waves seem to die down, but the water, green and gray before, takes on a shade of blue so dark, it's almost black." I guess that means no saving from the abyss, then. Too late for that. Ten percent for getting me to port. I don't even care which one, for that price." Spoiler Hide Solved with either checks on both combat (controlling the vessel, hard) *and* intelligence (navigation, medium) or just control (calming the storm, very hard, but doable for a titan with some skill in the field). Reward: a lot of resources and gold, potential cultist. Summoning Two: Wolves and Lions"Spirits, bless our weapons, so they may strike true once again, as they did in the battle on the pass, when the darkness fell on or enemies and confused them. Before the end, they will cry for mercy, and they shall not see any, as their punishment for closing the passes when the fires fell. For we are the Ash raiders, the Burning Men, and we do not forgive. Their souls for the Spirits, to feast upon, their weapons and banners for our glory." Two or three dozen men on scrawny horses are riding down from a high mountain pass, one of them bowing his head to pray. Their goal is a small village, a dozen wooden huts and a small keep, a two-story tower of stone, with a banner showing a red lion on a white field. Only a three soldiers in weapons and armor and a handful of villagers stand against raiders in ragged fur and leather, with crude spears and short bows, a few sword and lances, and damaged chain shirts. Spoiler Hide Can be solved with Combat (Medium), Leadership (Hard) or Control (Hard). Reward: Potential Cultist, 1d6 souls. The Soft dark swirls further on in the skies of his domain, commanding his creatures forth into the surrounding holdings, the creatures flying forth. But his attention was seized, the world called for him again, and this time…this time he wished to truly help. And from the now complete conduit, belched forth the sparks which dove back into the ground, tunneling as fast as they could, dark stone and earth flying forth into the air, only to be absorbed by the Shadow that hung forever through the world. And the conduit began to churn and the crunching of bone and flesh could be heard, a new Soul entering the shadows. ActionsSpoiler Hide The Soft Dark sends his Nebulous Alp into L6 The Soft Dark sends his Alp to S10 The Soft Dark sends his Familiar to S9 The Soft Dark research’s Arcane The Soft Dark research’s Shadow The Soft Dark promotes 1 Spark to a Soul The Soft Dark commands 8 Sparks to build a Pits Trap The Soft Dark answers the Black Abyss and their want of Navigation (Intelligence) Malcolm Malcolm sat on the grass and stared up at the sky, watching the clouds pass overhead. The light flickered as it reflected and refracted through the nearby crystals. His attention turned to the mountain in the distance. This makes no sense. Have they truly left? Or are they toying with us? No matter the case, Malcolm was determined to make the best of his time. He rose to his feet as he felt new souls enter his realm and prayers being sent. Malcolm once more looked cast his eyes upon the mountain. Spoiler Hide All actions will be in the status thread from here on out :) The Writhing Master The Lord of Disease gorged herself on the suffering of the souls in her domain, but still she was hungry, and her hungry eyes fell on the mortal world. Their prayers and desperation had whetted his appetite. Spoiler Hide The Writhing Master answers Wolves and Lions (Leadership) RAM heard the calls from the mortal world, but this time had no care for them. He had more important business to attend to. First, he made sure his servants understood their duties. He knew, and they knew, that they faced unprecedented risk in claiming lands closer to Mount Olympus, but like all his servants, they were prepared to lay their lives down in the war if necessary. And they wouldn't know this so well if I did not lead by example ... With this thought, RAM faced [counterclockwise] and stared into the distance ... OoC: Eldon, I snuck a few questions into my status thread post. I don't know if you haven't seen them, or just haven't answered them, but I'll need to know the answers before I finish up my actions for the turn. RAM mounted his warhorse and rode out to the no-man's land between the Forge Master's domain and his own. He took one last look backwards, then fixed his gaze upon the horizon. The others might not understand why I must do this, but I do not answer to them. The peaceful denizens of the Forge Master's domain never saw it coming. RAM smashed their walls with just a few swings of his gigantic sword, leapt over the rubble that was their defenses, and mowed down any who stood between him and the Forge Master. When he reached the Titan, he knocked him to the ground, then stood towering over him, sword raised. Before the Forge Master could gather the courage to speak, RAM swung, taking the Titan's head clean off. As divine blood spilled from the pitiful corpse at his feet, the domain echoed with the last unspoken words of the Forge Master:"Why did you slay me? Where is the justice in that? My creations mean no harm..." Ramm replied, making sure he spoke loudly enough for all to hear,"That was exactly the problem with you, Forge Master. You were weak. You always have been. If we are to prevail in our war against the gods, our creations must mean harm. You have been weighed, you have been measured, and you have been found wanting. May your weakness never again hold me back. If only I had had a more worthy Titan fighting by my side when we attacked Olympus, we might have beaten the gods all those ages ago. Instead, I had you. And now I have you no more." With that, RAM walked away. Libel watched from afar as the Forge Master was slaughtered, for that was what it was. There was no battle, only killing. Is that how you go about trying to defeat the Gods of Olympus?she asked, a bit harshly then she intended. To kill off allies that could have helped. Now there is only five of us. There are many more than five Gods RAM! Do you think you can do it without our help!? Do you think you alone are capable!? She calmed herself down a bit. You are dangerous RAM. She then goes about her own business, and has more defenses built. I have no use for weaklings, Libel. The Forge Master wanted to live in peace, but he failed to understand that we are at war, whether we like it or not. The gods may have been silent thus far, but it will not be long before we come to blow once more. I sense a strength in you, that you will be prepared to fight valiantly when that time comes. Am I mistaken in my appraisal of you, Lady? If I am not mistaken, then you should lose no sleep on my account. The Soft Dark The captains prayer could be heard through the darkness.“Saves me, be it gods or water spirits”, Captain Saharan holds his promises” it said. The darkness grinned, the Soft Dark felt pity for these creatures, tossed about on seas that could not control, could not master. They were mortal after all. Sad little mortals. They needed nurturing, they needed warmth, they needed something to watch them. To guide them. The world was so unkind. And the sea’s pitched; that thrice damned albatross would be no use here, not as a cross, not as a noose. No rhyme could be said, no poem, no epic translated in any tongue could tell of the journey that befell the mortal men, and The Soft Dark watched them scramble along the deck, the rigging whining and snapping in the wind, the water from the sea no indistinguishable from the water of the waves so violent was the storm. And when all seemed lost, The Soft Dark came. Not in fan fair, not in blasts of sound or triumph. Those were not The Soft Dark’s ways. Let some other Titan make himself appear above mortals as if he was their better. Let some God demand the worship simply because it was what it was. This was not The Soft Dark’s way. The Captain stood at the wheel, commanding his men, his voice all bout drowned out from the deluge. Soon now….so very soon The Soft Dark thought, his words would be devoured, and there would be silence, and then he would work his power. And that moment came, the roar of thunder and waves, the screaming of men, the pitching and lurching of the ship blended together. Saharan opened his mouth to shout another order. And Darkness came. The first whisper, the first sign was put a single sentence that drifted into his ears as the other sounds ceased." No gods, no spirits. Only The Soft Dark. A mortal by any other name is still as fragile." And the world to him was as nothing, the waves, the boat, the sky a solid black, only lines of white flashing energy marked the edges of what was and what was not. Men were shadows, gray on black, rain simply lines in a world of lines and expanses. And he saw it, standing next to him. The image of a man who was but a boy. The image of a boy who would never grow old enough to be called a man. The best lover he ever held, and his most bitter enemy. The Soft Dark had opened his eyes, peeled away the light that blinded the Captain in the one moment he truly needed to see. The waves did not part as one might think, no perfect method to weather the storm. This was not The Soft Dark’s way.“Captain. Your men will die.” The Captain could only stand there, mouth open and filling with water, emotions to varied and erratic to even set to any language we could attempt here.“What joke is this!” The Captain cried. “I pray and pray for anything! And this?! What sorcery do you wield beast!” And had the Captain not needed to hold on to the wheel, rest assured he would have struck out against the shadow that was more than shadow. It merely smiled back at him, walking about the men, whispering in the ear of Saharan.“Do you want your men to die? Captain? You know only you can save them. Gods…creatures, what would it be to give you power? What would you learn? What would you know after the adventure? Rage filled the Captain, and he screamed to top the will of nature, his hands clenched on the wheel, he could no longer feel it turn in his grip, his knuckles as white as the foam that topped the waves that appeared as teeth set to devour the ship.“Had I wanted riddles you blasted thing I would have sunk to the bottom and looked into the empty holes in the heads of the dead below! Help me now! I have summoned you! You must help me!” And the shadow that was not a shadow was before him, pointing ahead of him, that smile never leaving its lips. He had watched the hands of the man who railed against him. Only darkness knew truth, only shade would keep honesty while the light would lie.“But I have Oh Captain my Captain, your home. You knew the route all along, didn’t you? You did. I know you did. Your eyes lied to you, fear played with you. You were a puppet. But your strings….you can see them now.” The Captain blinked once, and light flooded back into the world, he turned his head, his mouth opening to say the words of thanks, though he was still uncertain exactly how it had happened. Had he navigated the safest route as he had a hundred times before simply because he could not see the storm through his outrage at the heavens? Or had that gentle shadow, that Soft Dark whispered in his ears like he could still hear. The words that no mortal could speak or understand, but could still hear. Was it the feeling of warm hands on his own that steered them to safety, that enveloping shade that made his rain drenched and wave beaten body weary not with strain but of comfort? He did not have time to question, he had no time for thanks, that velvet gloom was already gone, but he could not help but see eyes in ever shadow of his boat as the sun broke through the clouds. And off in the distance, they could see land. They could see the shore. They had survived. The payment gone, the deed done, The Soft Dark retreated to his Domain, and laughed.“To climb the highest mountain, it is not the intent of your journey, the dedication of your last travel, or the end of the path you walk that will make certain your success. Dear mortals, dear gods, dear creation there is only one thing that will determine that which you desire. The first step towards it. All one needs to do, is take that first step. What do you have to fear but the light that will blind you from that path? Welcome the embrace of the Darkness, for it seeks only to wrap itself around you. Drape you in the gentle purity of silent repose, and love you for your desire.” Malcolm And if you are? The words came soon after RAM had finished responding to Libel. The voice was child-like and gentle, though full of thought. Malcolm paused slightly. Ramm may have eliminated the weakest link in the chain. But who is to say which of us now takes that role? But would inaction have been a better option? The Forge Master chose to believe the gods of Olympus to be inner and acted as such. Perhaps he was too naive. There was a much longer pause as Malcolm looked up into the cloud filled sky above his domain. The actions we take now will echo til our end. For it is what we do that defines us. [b]Ah, Malcolm. You were always the wisest among us. I believe you are at least starting to understand the situation. Allow me to clarify slightly. The Forge Master was not the weakest link in our chain; he was not a link at all. The chain cannot be made stronger by removing any of its links. So long as you embrace your place in the chain, you have nothing to fear from me. Start of Turn 3As the smoldering ruins of the Master's great forges slowly fell and crumbled, the last remaining servant, tiny and metallic besides the fallen figure of its titan. A sudden wind came up, and slowly, grain by grain, the smashed walls, slain creatures and the living drone were carried away. Only the corpse of the Forge Master remained, hollow armor of black metal, and the howling sound of the wind as it blew over the empty suit. And then, the wind once again carried mortal voices:The Inquisitor"I pray to the Twelve, the rulers of the heavenly mountain, creators of heaven and earth. Since the Days of Wrath, heretics have plagued the land. I know that you are testing our faith with this, and I am more than willing to show you my devotion. But I have tracked these heretics for seven days and seven nights. Now that I have burned them, what would you have me do? I desire guidance, oh Enlightened Ones, as you have given us in the days when men still were blessed by your power. Spoiler Hide This summoning is special. This inquisitor will, of course, refuse to follow any creature that seems "demonic", i.e. originating from the titans, to him. However, any creature that convinces him that it is of divine origin will be certain of his loyalty. Therefore, the following checks are required: -Trickery (medium difficulty) to appear sufficiently "divine" -Intelligence (hard) to remember sufficient information about the gods to appear as their servant. -Persuasion (medium difficulty) to convince him of following orders. The reward is a cultist (with high stats in persuasion and willpower) that can operate without having to make trickery checks against the inquisition. RAM sat on a large rock, once part of the Forge Master's impressive defenses, and watched as all that the fallen Titan had built was slowly but surely torn asunder by the winds of Chaos, until all that remained was RAM, the rock, and the corpse of the Forge Master, his empty eye sockets staring back up at RAM. So it goes. I'll have a new drone in here to clean things up soon. Goodbye, Forge Master. Ramm felt the Chaos calling to him once more, and knew he must answer. He walked over to the very edge of the Forge Master's domain, where the winds of Chaos swirled violently, and then took one more step. ((Typing out actions, will get fluff later)Spoiler Hide Raise 3 sparks to souls Create 2 more alps Create 1 Familiar 1 Spark will build pit trap 1 Spark will build pit trap Neb. Alp will earth its location Alp will earth its location Familiar will hearth its location The Soft Dark spends its two turns researching Arcane Wolves and Lions She rode with them now towards the village, face veiled except for the black wells that were her eyes. They slowed and stopped just far enough away from the nervous defending bowmen to be safe. Nivea, his second, spat on the ground and cursed so loud it startled his hungry horse." Look! They're prepared. We took to long getting here, even riding our horses to exhaustion. And for what?" Nivea's hand went to the holy symbol sown into his fur, and he gave a hard look at the holy woman. "Reading stars! Daubing stones with aurochs blood! Useless oaths to new gods..." The woman returned Nivea's look with more malice than he thought was possible. Her spirit was strong and her eyes were strange so that even proud Nivea had to look away." Not new gods, but a great power. Our lord has blessed you for your courage, and you quail before villagers. Are you not Ash raiders? Burning Men? What do you have to fear from this rabble?"" This rabble is prepared and armed. No spirit's blessing will defend a rider from a spear to the chest."" The Master's blessings are many, and by faith I shall divine a weakness in their defenses. You need only to obey."" We shouldn't need to. If we had ridden hard straight from the victory at the pass, they-- "He raised his hand and Nivea shut up. Still, he was clearly upset and would have killed this woman. The woman, on the other hand, seemed unusually calm. Insulted by Nivea's disobedience, but otherwise the black eyes and veiled face betrayed nothing. He looked to the rest of his men, their faces like stone sculptures - stoicism trained from a hard campaign - but he knew them well. They trusted Nivea, knew that he was right. Riding hard after the victory at the pass, still feeling exuberance of victory, they imagined themselves sweeping into defenseless village and killing sleeping men. Now everything was different. But the woman was a power, certainly. She had read the stars and learned his name. And his raiders were a superstitious group. How could a woman such as she, wild but with hands soft like courtesan, who subsisted on nothing but air while they hunted and ate well (her lord, she said, favored them), not be holy? She must be a spirit, or the servant of a spirit. Not a god, but a great power, who asked for nothing but obedience, and victory in the Master's name." Ask your lord what we should do, and we shall follow you."***The initial charge had failed. The horses were tired, and the way had been trapped. Nivea was right, they were well-prepared. Even the second charge, striking at a gap in their line, had resulted in nothing but the death of two of his men and him being unhorsed. But the woman still rode, her mount unusually agile, rallying his men to keep fighting. He stayed close to her, defending her while his men tried to form around him. The soldiers they fought commanded the villagers well and countered by attempting to encircle him and separate him and the woman from the rest of his men. He watched an arrow arc in the air and land in the throat of one of his raiders and he realized there could be no victory here, only survival. She had failed them. But there was still a chance. Get away, escape into the wilderness and catch them off guard another time. He parried a blow from a crude spear and struck back, burying his sword deep in a gap in the damaged chain shirt of his attacker. Pulling his weapon out, he looked across the battle to his second, still on his horse and trying to lead the others to him. If he could only get a horse. He turned around and tried to pull the holy woman off her horse, and somehow failed. Unthinking he attempted to behead her and instead chopped of part of her arm, a fountain of heavy black blood. No - black sap? Heavy and hot, it covered his arm and burned him. The sword was stuck, as if in the caught in the trunk of a tree. His heart shattered as he looked her her eyes - a demon? But there was still hope, if he could use his weight and the sword, pull her --She separated leader of the raider's head from his neck and pulled his sword from her arm, where it immediately healed itself. The battle paused, the village defenders unsure of what to do, buying Nivea and the remaining raiders time to run escape into the woods. And the woman escaped as well, back into the Chaos of her domain. Spoiler Hide Sorry for the delay, I was out of town for a few days and didn't have time to work on a reply Accidents happen"I heard the gods don't answer our prayers, but that greater powers have returned... My Lord Father died, three days ago, from the pox. My older brother will succeed him after the funeral, but he is not fit to rule at all... He is rash, uncouth, gross and rude. He carries this absurdly huge Warhammer wherever he goes, to negotiations and when visiting other lords, when every rule of hospitality claims he should lie it down at their door. These are tough times, and the land needs a leader, not a fighter. I am born younger, but my tutors agree that I am exceptional... I can not meet my brother in combat, but if an accident were to happen, I would be most grateful." Spoiler Hide This mission automatically gives a cultist, one who is a noble at that and has some influence. To succeed, first, a trickery check of medium difficulty is needed, followed by either a combat check (hard) or a control check (medium). The Soft Dark answers the prayer of the Inquisitors Malcolm Malcolm stepped onto the surface of the yellow lake. Ripples cast themselves out as he took each step. They met with the edge of the lake and the black rock that supported the mysterious silver flower in the center of the lake. As he got closer to the flower, it blossomed and revealed an ornate set of pale blue armor. Hm. Well I do like the color. Each piece of the armor fit perfectly over his boyish form. The vines and leaves engraved upon the scales of the armor glistened in the pale yellow light reflecting off the lake. As Malcolm placed the helm upon his head he heard the echoes of mortal prayers. Not my usual style. But to turn down a gift from the Chaos would be foolish. Plus, my usual style left me entrapped by the will of those who now claim my home as their throne. The somber look in his eyes faded to determined focus. Then he turned away from the silver flower and walked back into the Chaos. The Writhing Masters the Master returned from his failed adventure into the mortal world, he heard the great clamor of battle and the Forge Master's plea as RAM destroyed the Titan. The Master let out a gurgling laugh while listening to her fellow Titans condemn the Titan of Law for his fratricide as he responded with assurances and reasons. Unable to contain his pleasure, the Writhing Master let out a sibilant call across Chaos:"RAM seeks to discipline and punish! To discipline the very personifications of Chaos! See his determination, my fellow Titans; it is unbending like the metal he commands. But it is not irresistible. Even the most steadfast judge may fall to corruption and the strongest metal can be reduced to rust. You killed the Forge Master to make us strong. Very well. But be aware, just as surely as we use this strength to rise up against the upstart gods, so we shall defeat you should you seek to take their place above us." Still hissing with pleasure, the Writhing Master looked again at the mortal realm. The other Titans had successfully established themselves already while he had consistently failed. Deciding that this was unacceptable, the Writhing Master gather his power and magic around him as he prepared to enter the world of men. Spoiler Hide The Writhing Master responds to the Inquisitor New Turn:An incantation in a language no mortal should know echoes throughout Chaos. After it is finished, the mortal continues in the Common language: "O great Titans of old, hear my plea. Knowledge is what I seek. And I offer a prayer for your answers." Spoiler Hide First summoning by a summoner. A prayer is equivalent to one PowerPoint, by the way. Malcolm As he watched the Interwar walk out of the deplane, Malcolm thought to himself. They had been silent and still since the old days. Had they awaited our return? They had been beholden to us in the past, would they now fight for the gods now seated upon Olympus? Malcolm changed his focus upon the surrounding Chaos. What purpose have you set for us? The Chaos didn't respond, but he didn't expect one. As the echoes of human prayer reached out, Malcolm trekked back to his domain. Mother Earth watched as her domain grew larger, and every day, she grew more powerful. She looked out to Mount Olympus and wondered if the Titans would succeed together to destroy them, or would only one be left standing. Sighing, she headed back inside her domain, to continue her research.

Lords of the Elements|rating:3.0

Heirs of the New World_ Conquerors

Rhenish! City of Opportunity, City of Hope. Mavis saw to it that this motto made itself true. Of the four Great Cities of Nevis, here alone has there never been true famine. Here, there has never been true plague. Here, squabbles with the Natives always end up resolved with little bloodshed. Most of the generous shipments from the old Continent went straight to social programs made to support an ever-growing population and to foster and inspire new ways to expand the influence and beneficence of the Law. The arrival of the Martyr's Blood and its fleet changed things in an instant. Apparently coordinated by magic, the change in leadership was instant. The moment Genus stepped from the ship, a legion of clerics behind him, new flags appeared on each government building. Law. The flags of Rhenish and Nevis found themselves below the Church on every pole. Conscripted paupers ran from place to place announcing that the new Lord Judge would see applicants for Peacekeepers immediately. The city changed. Rhenish was now the City of Order and the City of Law. The shipments from the Continent go to financing the Peacekeepers and towards projects which have not yet seen public disclosure. The only part of Mavis' legacy preserved is the verbatim quote which forms Genus' mission statement: "To Foster and Inspire new Ways to Expand the Influence and the Beneficence of the Law." It has been a month, and now people from all over haves had a chance to prepare for Genus' long-since announced second mission: Exploration and Intelligence Gathering. The Church would finance missions into the wilderness, sowing constant support in return for constant results. The wilds are untamed and chaotic. That, we know, will not stand. Your group has been through the Citadel--so quickly built from the old Office of the Lord Judge which Mavis kept so small--and up the eight obsidian steps to the Court of the Lord Judge. Here, dozens of criminals have been given sentences harsh enough to fit their crimes. Here, the Peacekeepers who keep the streets clear of litter by force and enforce curfew have all been commissioned. And here behind his desk, now, is Genus. Despite the muggy summer heat, he wears the full Vestment of the Lord Judge without a sign of exhaustion. The heavy woolen cloak stitched with gold symbolizes virtue within humility. On Genus, it seems to be a tangible aura of authority. Black as night, it contrasts sharply with his white hair and beard, his violently green eyes, and the blood-red ruby amulet which hangs on a silver chain from his neck. Old, as far as humans go, Genus nevertheless seems to hold a barely restrained power. His dignity is a threat and his disinterest a blessing. This man is not known for his mercy." Expedition Group 15,"he says in a voice much too thin for his grandeur. He marks a piece of paper. Only now does he look up at you, glancing at each of you almost mechanically, evaluating and calculating." I declare you fit. You will be venturing northwards. Our tasks in this land are manifold, and mine is the burden of parceling them out to you. What manner of quest is most fitting? Exploration and claim? Contact and taming? How can you best benefit the Church by your powers?" His short, clipped words and lack of any niceties seem to indicate that the Lord Judge does not suffer procrastinators gladly. Looking for all the world like a constellation in his purple-black silks and silver jewelry, Phys'all Taranto of Second house Taranto shown on the barest of the ivory crescent of his smile. Let this human believe he was under the man's thumb and this paltry Church establishment." Exploration and claim. As a prospector by trade, I would request a team and equipment befitting the location and assessment of mineral deposits and natural cave systems for underground deposits of the same." He lilted in his lilting, strangely deep, dialect of Common, his hands folded neatly in front of him and his deep purple eyes, unblinking, making a subtle declaration that this was a very strong suggestion, just shy of the demand he'd have made nearer his home territories. The Crystal Spider allowed a few seconds to slide by before producing a paper he and his...colleagues in this venture had compiled of needs and wants, pushing it forward with one slender ebony hand backed in finery." To be more precise. We will ATTEMPT them both. Exploration and Claim will happen first. Any natives on the land will be given the opportunity to join in the Wave of Progress...and the Church, which we herald...the rest..." The corner of his mouth ticks up slightly in this moment, giving the briefest bent grin,"Well, to stay with the metaphor, the rest will be swept away by the tide." He finished, hand sliding back into place in front of him. He allowed himself an inward moment of self-aggrandizement for thinking far enough forward to leave his reinsurer with his retainer in his accommodations. No need for this man to have even the smallest chance of knowing his allegiances. Round-ears never understand anything. However, the years of pretend subservience to his Sisters would always serve him when manipulating these types. After a few more moments painfully waiting for the Quick at the table to finish reading, he gestured lightly toward the parchment, Chief among these requests, at least on my quiet opinion, would be investors to supply material assets. Churches will need to be built in order to sermon to homesteaders as well as house and educate the converts. Also, excavation equipment to reap mineral assets as well as provide stone for places of worship...and fortifications, in case the natives take leave of their senses and attempt to procure our supplies by aggressive means. He offered at last. Of course, HIS people simply fortify the underground, as he would be doing while the Lesser toil to bring out the earth's riches. Which he will then find a reason to tithe from. But that will be later. For now, he had delivered his piece as agreed upon by The Associates. It was time to weigh this Man's response. Judge Samuel War dwell, Sr. kneels down slowly within his small and somewhat empty quarters, facing a small table with the holy symbol of St. Cuthbert, his god, resting upon it. The door is fastened shut behind him, locked, and the room is lit only by several candles, giving the quarters a somewhat bleak appearance. A pair of incense burners that rested upon the table, filling the room with their aroma. War dwell is clad only in a pair of dirty brown trousers, his regular dark shirt and uniform resting upon a chair that faces the corner of the small room. He breathes heavily, and stares into a small bit of mirrored glass that sits upon the table, just beneath the holy symbol. The older man is sweating, his gray hair looking wild and frayed, his eyes gazing forward with a crazed look about them. A pitcher of cold water remains on the floor beside him, a thick white washcloth beside it. In his right hand, a strange device is held tightly, his knuckles white from clutching it so passionately. The tool seems to be a thick bit of black rope, crafted to take the shape of several knotted cords. A cat-tail whip, so named for the relatively thin bit of rope used to create them, rope almost the same width as a cat's tail. As War dwell holds it, he breathes in deeply before speaking a holy chant, his deep voice forced, clearly in some bit of pain." Dies iræ, dies ill, Solve sæclum in fa villa. Test David come Sibylla..." As he speaks, he brings his hand forward, before flinging the whip over his shoulders and groaning out in pain, flagellating himself. He speaks afterward, gritting out a small sentence." I atone for my sin of flesh, may the gods forgive me." Wardwell spends a few seconds gritting his teeth and staring into the mirror once more, before his cold blue eyes drift upwards to gaze upon the weathered holy symbol that rested above him. He would be strong, he was used to the pain by now. On the morning of every third day of the week, for the past twenty years, Samuel would submit himself to the purification, the ritual known as the "Mortification of the Flesh." It was his way of paying penance for sins long past, his own personal method of atonement. The Inquisitor speaks once more, grimacing as he brings the whip over his shoulder once more." Quantus tremor est futures, Quango Jude est ventures, Junta strict discusses..." With a gasp and a crack of the tool, he coughs loudly, before looking up to the holy symbol once more. In it, he found strength. War dwell continues to whisper out his second plead of atonement." I atone for my sins of covetousness, may the gods forgive me." By now, his back was aching, and the marks of his self-flagellation are evident. It did not matter to War dwell however, there was only the ritual now. Just another few marks to rake at his flesh, flesh that did not matter to the Inquisitor. As he prepares for the final stroke of the whip, he continues his chant." Tuba mirum spar gens sonum, Per sepulchral regionum, Comet ones ante throne." He finishes his ritual with a quivering voice, his weakest whisper yet." I atone... for my... my sins of enviousness. May... May the gods forgive me." After War dwell finishes speaking, he slowly dips the cloth into the pitcher of water, and begins to tend to his wounds. The man is quick about it as well, his hands well-practiced, quite used to the ritual after so many years of performing it. As he finishes cleaning the wound, he stands, leaning upon the table to reach his full height, requiring something to balance upon to his leg injury. As War dwell stands now, he reaches for the bandages that rest nearby, and quickly wraps them around his chest and back, making sure that the sores are both cleaned and protected from disease. It was his Master, Brigade that taught him the ritual, so many ages ago. It was Brigade that taught him to treat the wound as well. Though the pain still throbs through his body, War dwell is temporarily distracted with thoughts of Brigade, memories both fond and... unpleasant. With a dexterous slide of his hand, the final bandage is in place, and the Inquisitor breathes in deeply, before going about the process of getting dressed. The clothing is all quite heavy, and black, a clear marker that this was a man of the cloth. After he's completely dressed, War dwell stares at himself in the small mirror once more, looking over each detail meticulously. It would not due to appear unclean, or ill-prepared for his meeting with Lord Genus, after all. The man reaches for his gnarled walking stick, the weathered staff's surface covered in gnarled visages of St. Cuthbert, and of other holy figures. War dwell holds it close with a gloved hand, prepared to walk with its aid. He opens wide the small door, and steps outside, his great black cloak dragging on the ground behind him. He walks forward now, his great black captain hat covering his face in shadow, his heavy black clothing billowing in the wind behind him, giving him the appearance of the Grim Reaper himself. As he walks, the older man looks around with a look of pride on his face. Rhenish. Once the City of Opportunity, the City of "Hope". Once foolish titles for a city once full of foolish people, thought War dwell to himself as he navigated through the cobblestone streets on the way to The Citadel. Useful titles they had been, perhaps, for the purpose of attracting passengers to the city from the Old Continent. Still, the Inquisitor hadn't approved of the name for the city, for in his opinion, the name had given hope to the many vagrants, and sinners, and convicts that'd be thrilled at the idea of escaping the rules and laws of the Old World. Before the Church of the Law had planted its boot firmly on the face of the New World, the city had been a horrid place, a festering whirlpool of vice and corruption, most definitely. Now, however, things had changed, and for the better. City of Order, City of Law. Now that got the point across, a fitting name for the city now that the Church of the Law had shaped the city into something acceptable. He walks past a woman in the streets, calling after her daughter. The child rushes out through an alleyway, smiling wildly as she chases after a neighbor boy. As she stumbles out of the area, she follows the boy into the middle of the street, ending up standing right before War dwell. She looks up at the man all in black and her eyes go wide. The Inquisitor gazes down at her, his cold eyes devoid of feeling and emotion, a perpetual scowl upon his weathered and scarred face. She continues to stare up at him, somewhat perplexed by the man's rather large holy symbol, it seemed to shine so beautifully in the light! She comments upon it, attempting to great the stranger." I like your necklace! I don't think I've seen you before... Furthermore, I'm New-!" Before she even finishes her sentence, War dwell interrupts her, speaking slowly, enunciating each syllable with impeccable diction, his deep voice dripping with malice." Out of the way, girl." Without even pausing for a response, War dwell steps forward, his prosthetic limb clunking upon the ground loudly, his cloak dragging through the leafy cobblestone streets once more. After some time of travel, the man in black finds the location he's looking for, the great Citadel. From the bottom of the great obsidian steps, War dwell gazes upwards, a small smile of pride forming on his face, his cracked lips forming a rather peculiar grin indeed. It's an uncomfortable smile, neither welcoming nor warm like a smile ought to be. Wardwell makes his way up the steps, opening the door into Genus' office quietly, an air of both sophistication and intimidation about him, his heavy black clothing covering nearly every inch of the man. He'll move forward directly in front of Genus, gripping his Eton quarterstaff tightly, and although he leans upon it somewhat, he stands in such a way that suggests he was once military, his blue eyes looking over everything hungrily, mindlessly assessing and calculating all that he could see. He was quite unattractive, all things considered. Still, there was a great charisma about him, a sense of authority much like the air of power that Genus himself sported. Anyone around him will be able to take a good long look at the strange man. His posture happens to be as upright as could possibly be despite the man's crippled status. Upon gazing down his weak-looking but solid elderly frame, the reason as to why he leans so heavily is revealed. From his calf to his foot, the man lacks flesh, the foot missing. Instead, a wood and steel prosthetic appears to be capped and strapped onto his leg, allowing him to walk normally. However, one would imagine putting too much body weight upon the prosthetic would eventually become uncomfortable, hence the walking staff. However, despite the man's injury and physically weak appearance, there's an aura around him, a presence, a great inner strength, domineering and powerful. From under the shade of the man's black and buckled wide-brimmed captain, not much can be seen of his face, other than that he appears to have gray mutton chops, very well-groomed for such a weathered looking man. His skin is leathery and splotchy, as if he'd spent many years under the sun. However, his most distinguished facial feature would be his rather large nose, hooked and bent in several places suggesting that it'd been broken many times in the past. At his waist, many pouches can be seen built into his thick belt, his tools of the trade sealed within. There are powders of all kinds here, silver dust, salt, and holy ash all sorted and labelled. This was not a man to anger, clearly, and the man made it clear with his body language. This was not a man that took kindly to foolishness. He speaks towards Genus now, his deep bass voice cold and empty of regular human emotion." My lord, Genus. I have heard much about you through the Church. It is both a humbling and an honor to finally put a face to the name." Wardwell nods courteously, clearly no stranger to speaking with figures of authority. It's quite evident that he takes Genus' title quite seriously, and already feels a great deal of respect to the old man." I am Samuel War dwell, Sr. As for the proposed mission, my lord, exploration, it may be called. However, this Moreno the acquisition of land than it is simply charting it on a map." There's a small pause before he continues." I seek land to claim for the Church of the Law, Lord Genus. This "New World" is ripe for the picking, and I believe that the Church would greatly benefit by having a man such as I in control of something as important as the taking and keeping of land. A man with clear ties to the church, and a history of devotion. I seek only able-bodied men to follow me where you decree I go." "We shall break the back of this virgin land, for the gods above." A memory. Dry dusty skulls in a desert valley with the tops sawn off. A whisper in the sand and a wiggle of the fingers, and two hundred men draw steel. The zephyrs pick up, and the howl of the wind masks rasp of metal on leather. Then, the howl of men in the white noise. The shriek of arrows innumerable plummeting from the sky. Hordes of the enemy pouring from the walls. A memory. Two men standing on a ship, bow breaking the water as it glides into port." Should've gone into clean business, like me."" I was never much one for the sea."" Doesn't seem like running when there's no one chasing you."" I don't think they'll be following me this far."" Well, they didn't think we'd follow them into the Darren Rift, did they?" Rawne smiles softly." In any case, this is where I'm supposed to be, according to them. Can't blame me for doing my job. They even went through the trouble of getting me this nice instruction letter." Rawne fingers the still sealed, pristine envelope. A jar, as the ship stops, and sailors throw ropes and boards." See you around sometime."" I hope. Un pour thus..." Rawne puts a hand out. The captain takes it."...et thus pour UN. As they say back home." Now. Up the grand, obsidian steps, black as baked blood. Into the hall of the esteemed Lord Judge. And waiting, and finally..." Lord Judge. Major Race, formerly of the 3rd Trevelyan Desert Light." Rawne takes a moment to salute, then steps forward, one hand reaching within his jacket, retrieving an envelope, untouched wax seal gleaming." An epistle, from the Lord Mayor of my land,"he says, and reaches forward to place it on Genus's desk." As they say. We aim not merely to find territory, but to civilize it, and bring it fully under the control of enlightened men." Simon defers to his more eloquent companions, and decides to let them bestow the praises, as he is unimpressed by the Lord Judge, but he doesn't show it. "An unusually unified group,"Genus remarks. He is stating a fact, not giving praise. With an extremely practiced hand, he breaks the wax seal neatly in two, ensuring both that it cannot be set right again for forgery and preserving it for sake of future identification. He reads the letter, taking the necessary time to be sure of its contents. After a moment, he looks up at Race." Well, Major, I understand that some of my colleagues have historically been lax in their duty to enforce the Law. Enforcement includes investigation, and investigation until truth is found. Such are the reasons that the numbers of the Elect are... it is no matter. What is, is that your past is beyond my jurisdiction. That stated, upon Nevis, my jurisdiction is without end, and to that end I will not have trouble caused by those I commission. Understand that." His gaze turns to War dwell." Your enthusiasm, despite your apparent age and unfortunate circumstance, are heartening. Your willingness to follow orders well befits one of your station. Have heart; here one such as you may well make a name for himself. If fame is not your goal, I am certain you shall earn it. Or, among the unrighteous of this land, infamy. You will make a name for yourself if you remain industrious, and that name will be part of the fabric of the Church. Inspire with piety and chastise without mercy." He next addresses the Draw. "You ask much. Exceedingly much. You are both untested and untried. I assure you, that should there be need, we will fulfill every one of your requests. For now, though, you must both demonstrate your competence, and demonstrate the need for the great demands you have made. Your first task will be one of exploration, I believe. There exist tribes which impede our progress and do not seem...inclined to make peaceful contact. While peace is always preferred, I would prefer we meet them with groups capable of their own defense. What lies past their lands is a mystery worth exploring. And then, perhaps, claiming. And then, should all be done to satisfaction, your demands may be met. What is immediately pertinent from this list? Or from beyond it, should you be so disorganized." Taking up his pen once more, he begins to write something down. He speaks without glancing up." I take your silence to mean you are in agreement. Give word if I am mistaken." He continues writing, but gives a glance which invites further comment should any exist. Originally Posted by Reagan "An unusually unified group," Genus remarks. He is stating a fact, not giving praise. With an extremely practiced hand, he breaks the wax seal neatly in two, ensuring both that it cannot be set right again for forgery and preserving it for sake of future identification. He reads the letter, taking the necessary time to be sure of its contents. His gaze turns to War dwell. "Your enthusiasm, despite your apparent age and unfortunate circumstance, are heartening. Your willingness to follow orders well befits one of your station. Have heart; here one such as you may well make a name for himself. If fame is not your goal, I am certain you shall earn it. Or, among the unrighteous of this land, infamy. You will make a name for yourself if you remain industrious, and that name will be part of the fabric of the Church. Inspire with piety and chastise without mercy." t Taking up his pen once more, he begins to write something down. He speaks without glancing up. "I take your silence to mean you are in agreement. Give word if I am mistaken." He continues writing, but gives a glance which invites further comment should any exist. War dwell shifts his gaze towards the other in the room, his cold little eyes beginning to scrutinize and assess every detail upon each of the others with relative ease, his eyes flashing from beneath his dark hat. Although the shadows hide his gaze, the others may feel somewhat bothered by a strange feeling, like someone was looking right through them. Everything about this strange old cripple of a man was unsettling. First, his eyes move to stare towards the "Major", looking him up and down like a hawk mindlessly assessing a field mouse before the kill. War dwell slowly goes over what he sees in his mind, making sure his mental assessment of each of his new companions was quite thorough." Rapier, finely made but far too pretty looking. Short sword on the other hip, perhaps he wields them both, the style is not so unusual in certain parts of the world. Not particularly muscular, but there's a liveliness to him there. His title seems to suggest he was once military, but he does not bear himself like a military man ought, his posture is all wrong. I do not trust him. What sort of soldier was this... Race? Yes, that was his name. Where have I heard that name before, it sounds... familiar? Almost like... Hm." The question rattles through his head, and Samuel racks his brain, trying to recall whether he'd heard of this man before. Knowledge Local to Recall Information on a "Major Race".(1d20+4)[5]Next, his electric blue gaze turns over to look over seemingly unarmed man that seemed so quiet. There was something disconcerting there about the silence, something not quite right. War dwell scowls, obviously somewhat bothered by the fact that the man didn't even bother to introduce himself to the most esteemed Judge Genus. Where were the man's manners? Samuel looks deeper, attempting to get a good idea of what Simon was like, and what abilities he would have to assist the expedition with." Unarmed, it seems. Light armor, but mundane in appearance. No, no, this man was no combatant, but nor was he just some pawn of the church, no. He wouldn't be here if he was. There was something about... Ah, yes. A caster, but one without badge or sign of devotion to an organization. This one would need to kept watch upon, yes. I do not trust this wizard, far too unpredictable. Too difficult to control." Wardwell gives the mage one final look, drifting up to look into the other man's eyes from beneath the safety of his own tall hat, his stare most likely going by undetected. Regardless, the Inquisitor turns away from the rather plain, but no doubt dangerous spell caster. While Major Race may have only drawn a raised eyebrow from the Inquisitor, and the wizard earned naught but a slight scowl, the sight of a draw, a dark elf, daring to speak so brazenly towards the Lord Judge brought a great frown to War dwell's weathered and scarred face. How dare the... inhuman creature speak towards the superior in such a way, how dare he demand gold from the church in such an unprofessional way. The Inquisitor does not like the draw at first, in his rich purple silks and foppish clothing. And so, without even bothering to hide his gaze this time, Samuel stares straight at the draw, absolutely expressionless save a slight twitch in his lip, and a strange dark look in his eye." Drow. The very word sickens me. Horrid creatures, devoid of true human emotion, more akin to beast than man. Foul, and evil by nature, as evil as their twisted and false deity, the spider she-demon. The creature embellishes himself all in bright and expensive clothing, a terrible illusion. The wicked thing thinks himself a man, a noble even! Hah. The draw will quickly need to learn its place, lest I am forced to teach it quite forcefully. Nevertheless, the creature is under the command of the Church now, and as such I must work with it. After all... There is never a shortage of cannon fodder. Perhaps I may even convert it in time, and show it the path of righteousness. It does seem to be a warrior of some sort." The Inquisitor finishes assessing Phys'all, however he does not cease his unsettling stare, his cold blue eyes glaring right at the other man's purple orbs. War dwell tightens his grip upon his quarterstaff before speaking to Lord Genus again, although there's a good five seconds of speech where Samuel is still gazing towards the draw with hostility. His voice is still quite icy, but his speech increases in speed towards the end of his bit of conversation, clearly quite eager to get to his work." My Lord Genus, I thank you for your kindnesses, however I would request that you simply consider me as you would any other man, for it was the god's will to take what I've lost from me, and I trust most wholeheartedly in the wisdom of the gods. Once more, I thank you most gratuitously for your praise, my lord. I do not seek fame, for I find great honor in simply serving my patron god as best I can, with fire, blade, or whip. I am certain that in time, the unrighteous and unsavory will know my name, however. Furthermore, I shall teach them to fear the Church of the Law, and I shall teach them their proper place in society, or cut them down with righteous fury in the name of the patron lord Saint Cuthbert." "My lord... When are we to set forth?" Oh, dreadfully sorry, Captain Quick. I had thought you Round-Ears liked to get things done in your lifetime. Phyx snarled inwardly, a raised, pale ivory eyebrow the only outward sign of the impertinent man's rejection. Another town to add to his Burn List, nothing more. May hap a few babies from the House could pay this place a visit. Always good to know at least one knife in the shadows. Blinking himself from his reverie in time for the man's question and pause, he allowed himself a small smirk, inclining ever-so-slightly towards the Lord Human. As you say, the kindling before the spark. However, I would still request that missionaries be sent in our wake, say a week or two hences. He grinned slightly and looked towards the Inquisitor of Cuthbert momentarily. Our Patrons will have new blood within that time, have faith in that. "You leave the moment your affairs are in order, which,"Genus says looking directly at War dwell,"I expect they already are. I will grant you any small, material items for which you have need, and then you will depart for Easel, where you will receive a rough map of where you ought to go. It is decidedly rough, considering that most journey is through unmapped lands. Should any of you have the ability, you will be given a scroll of sending to use to contact us when the time comes. Do not contact me; contact the secretary from whom you will receive it. There, too, you will fill out the requisite forms to be given the job, as we will want record of who you are." His head turns." Drow, if your words are not empty, then you will be a great boon to the program. That noted, the chance that your pride over-inflates your self-estimation is far greater than that on which I would be willing to stake the time of representatives of the Church proper. Perform well first." And your pride inflates your self-estimation of your life span, Blank. Phyx'all seethed in the deep recesses of his mind, feeling that familiar boiling sensation inherent in the Children of the Spider Queen. Instead, he gave a single coughed chuckle and another slightly inclined head-bow,"As you say, Egg'caress." "Thank you for your support, Lord Judge." Rawne says, saluting again. He quickly makes eye contact with each of his companions, finally settling on the Draw." Phyx'all,"he murmurs,"time to go." Rawne turns back and steps away from Genus's desk, awaiting the rest of the party's departure from the hall. Elated to be gone from Lord Round-Ear's presence, Phys'all gave the barest of nods rather than the usual scowl and turned crisply on his heel to follow the others out. Simon bows crisply and makes a silent exit. Originally Posted by Reagan "You leave the moment your affairs are in order, which," Genus says looking directly at War dwell, "I expect they already are. I will grant you any small, material items for which you have need, and then you will depart for Easel, where you will receive a rough map of where you ought to go. It is decidedly rough, considering that most journey is through unmapped lands. Should any of you have the ability, you will be given a scroll of sending to use to contact us when the time comes. Do not contact me; contact the secretary from whom you will receive it. There, too, you will fill out the requisite forms to be given the job, as we will want record of who you are." War dwell nods knowingly, his tall hat at an angle towards the Lord Judge, his head bent low enough to see the top of the large thing. He raises his head once more and speaks to Genus again, his deep voice echoing in the small room, each syllable meticulously enunciated. The man possessed quite a frightening voice, all things considered. As he speaks, he slowly clasps his two hands together, rubbing them slowly in anticipation." You are correct, my lord. I prepared myself this morning for the journey ahead into the dark lands. I do not require further assistance from the Church, my lord, though I thank you once more for your desire to help us on our way. Perhaps you shall hear more of me in the future, Lord Genus." "Until then, your lordship."---The Inquisitor walks out of the room now, his metal leg clacking against the floor. As he leaves, he speaks to the other assembled outside his office." Are you prepared, gentlemen?" (The surrounding area is a hallway with a number of closed oaken doors. You've exited the room at the end of the hall and are on/have just descended a small set of steps. The other end of the hall opens without a door into the entry room where the secretary likely is.) Race nods." Onwards, then."he says, and proceeds down to the other end of the hall." Shimon, you can use a scroll of sending, can't you?" Simon smiles and follows Race. But of course. Behind a desk, a secretary elf sits in front of a massive filing structure that would be best described as overflowing with papers but for the disorder implied by the statement. Under her expert guidance, it seems, even the madness of the half the major paperwork of a continent seems well managed. Still behind the desk, next to the cabinets and cubbies, a lone door sits in the wall, unassuming oak like all the others. This door is mirrored by another across the room, making these the only two ways into the parts of the building that aren't the hallway from which you came. As you walk in, stepping across the obsidian highlights in the white marble floor which spell out the city's motto, the secretary reaches a practiced hand under the desk, withdraws a bundle of forms, and drops four of them in one expert sweeping motion across the desk. She quickly drops a pen by each, adding two inkwells, so each person can have one shared within easy reach. The forms are not long; the ten pages require only signatures and brief notes on the breed of mission you expect to undertake." These papers will be copied and stored in every major city across the continent, with copies sent back to the Old World. Did the Lord Judge give you any Requisition Forms?" The woman's voice has something of a foreign lilt to it; likely, she was raised in one of the frontier towns. With reflexes born of generation of instinct, Phys'all fixes the Pale-skin with a dreadful glare and mocking sneer see they have their own pet Sun-child... He casually remarked to his group, one ebony hand sliding out of his robes, bracers gleaming ever in the low light, to jot things onto the papers, but only after "testing" the quill by drawing on of the many Infernal symbols for Die onto the sun-worshiper's desk about the size of his hand. He stood and jabbed the point of the quill into the table, leaving it quivering in place as an aura of menace rolled off his shoulder like flowing mantle, his seething ire never leaving the Surface Whore Sun-bitch. The other could deal with the forms. Spoiler: Scary face Check Hide (1d20+10)[12] "Thank you, Phys'all,"Race says quietly, pushing his way forward, just a little between the elves. He takes a pen and twirls it in his fingers, while taking a moment to skim the front of one of the forms to determine its contents. He leans casually against the desk, and looks right at the secretary." Sorry, love, we were told to get the forms from you." Spoiler Hide Diplomacy: (1d20+13)[16] towards the purpose of making the secretary like us enough to hook us up with some sweet loot, instead of, for example, throwing a pair of scissors at Phys'all. Simon quietly points out. You know why we are here, and you know how much he would like you to disturb him over a little matter of paperwork. Spoiler: Bluff roll Hide [roll]1d20+10[[/roll] Oops Spoiler: this time without the typo Hide (1d20+10)[17] War dwell moves forward through the small hallway and into the marble-floored room quietly, seemingly not to be one for mindless conversation. He'll find his place in front of the desk, simply nodding to the woman before beginning to sign the ten papers. He does not bother speaking to the others, and appears to completely ignore Phys'all's rude comment regarding the even secretary. Though he does take note of it, saving the memory in his head. The draw would no doubt prove most difficult to work with. Still, the Inquisitor does not worry himself over the draw further, for he knew that the dark elf would one day face judgement for his many crimes against the better people of the world. He was a sinner, after all. And so, War dwell continues to read over the papers and sign. The elf watches Phys'all with an breaking calm until he begins to fill his forms. She then waits calmly until everyone is done. As she gathers the forms and places them somewhere under her desk, she responds, finding a number of new papers in the shelves behind her." If that is the case, then here is the necessary form for your party." She places one piece of paper in front of Race." You are, I believe, Expedition Group 15, so make sure to fill that in as such in the appropriate blank. Should you require more space than that provided, you presume too much." As you write, she returns the three free pens to their places and carefully stores one inkwell. She then plucks the stuck pen and begins to write on one of the two blank sheets before her. Race starts filling out the tangential information, including painstakingly making sure he puts in "Expedition Group 15" in the appropriate blank. When he finds the actual section he was looking for, he gazes at it disapprovingly, and asks back at the group,"Is there anything you really have to get?" Hamm... Phyx'all thought with one slender hand on his chin, contemplating for the barest of moments the things he'd already been thinking about for an entire boat journey. The delicate hand descended from chin to tick off a list on the opposite hand's fingers. Corkscrews. Excavation crew. Surveying equipment. Imported dredger fungus rations. Wagons. A bucket full of the blood of heretics. A church-worth of stone and carving tools. Oh, and a good set of spelunking gear for myself, my retainer and my haul-boy. He listed off quickly, without so much as a twinge of the mouth to indicate which items were sarcastic or not. War dwell nods to the even secretary once more before speaking to her quietly, though his bold and deep voice can be heard by most simply through being as crisp as it is. There's a softness to his words to her, but still a great detachment." Your assistance is appreciated." He begins to fill out the last of the few papers before beginning to write down a few things he'd personally want with him during the journey. His writing is quite nice to look at, and it's clear that the older man has filled out quite a few parcels of paper in his lifetime. Still, he pushes the ink pen into the paper particularly hard, perhaps a little bit too hard to be strictly necessary. War dwell listens to the draw speaking once more, his scowl deepening as he notices the sarcastic comment and smirk upon Phys'all's lips. Though the Inquisitor knows that he's to work with these others as per the orders of the Church, he's still greatly annoyed by the disrespectful draw. The man in black will speak towards Phys'all, not threateningly, but certainly a tad condescending, as if scornfully scolding a child for making some sort of mess." Know your place, dark elf." He continues writing upon the paper, not bothering to focus upon staring towards the dark elf." It will not serve you well to disrespect the values of those you intend to have sponsored your expedition, now will it?" Wardwell continues to write, taking his time to make sure he's signed everything with the proper words and numbers." Think before you speak." With that said, he finishes writing and sets the paper down, organizing it and handing it towards the even secretary politely. When he's done, he'll stand up and look towards the others, his dark and billowing cloak falling down his shoulders like a waterfall of black cloth to rest upon the marble floor. Spoiler: War dwell's Note: Hide 1. Three barrels of pitch. 2. Ten pounds of wooden plank. 3. One barrel of tar. 4. Rations. 5. Underlings. 6. Additional Torturer's Devices. -Samuel War dwell, Sr. "I'll get you a bucket." Rawne labors over the fundamental section, filling it with clear, crisp letters, with the practiced hand of someone who has had to fill out innumerable bureaucratic requisition forms in the past. Spoiler Hide Oil, eight pints. Signal whistles, three. Tents, three. Signal whistles, four. Manacles with simple locks, two. Hempen rope, fifty feet. Lamps, two. Hammers, two. Wood axes, three. Bow saw, one. Wood chisel, one. Mugs, two. Jugs, two. Chain, twenty feet. Chalk, five pieces. Canvas, ten square yards. Flint and steel, two. Fishhooks, three. Map cases, two. Blank books, two. Ink, six ounces. Ink pens, two. Shovels, two. Pickaxe, one. Astrolabe, one. Compasses, two. Pack mule, one. Pack saddle, one. Worthless baubles, 10 pounds. Bucket, one. "It is good to have supplies to get us in, even better to be able to get our own, eh? The longer we can last by ourselves in the field, reaching deeper into uncharted territory, without having to come in and resupply and lose progress...and if we can start building outposts, all the better." Phys'all's sneer turns up a level in triumph at getting a rise from the surly old Quick, Again, you Humans take things for what you see. He scolded right back, arching one finger towards the sickening Bright Elf at the desk, She breathes, does she not? I have not raped OR tortured her, have I? If you knew a quarter as much as one of your 'advanced' age should, you'd know that's a sign of respect in itself, from my people. He replied sharply, stressing with his tone that he meant 'advanced' in the years of a Short-life. Any Draw past primary education knew all a Human knows in its lifetime or more. Pathetic creatures. Finished with his dialogue with the creaking Quick, he looked over the form from behind the other's shoulder. His lips pressed into a thin Eton line before sighing, You people really don't like getting anything done, do you? Race carefully glances over the form one last time, making sure that all the fields are filled correctly, then hands it in to the secretary. He makes eye contact, and pointedly casts his eyeballs toward the dark elf behind him, and whispers (not terrible quietly),"Don't mind him. He was raped and tortured as a child and just thinks that's how everyone is supposed to behave." Then, slightly louder,"Maybe if you didn't need half the continent's present population to follow behind you into the wilds, we could've done it quicker." Originally Posted by Ontario Phys'all's sneer turns up a level in triumph at getting a rise from the surly old Quick, Again, you Humans take things for what you see. He scolded right back, arching one finger towards the sickening Bright Elf at the desk, She breathes, does she not? I have not raped OR tortured her, have I? If you knew a quarter as much as one of your 'advanced' age should, you'd know that's a sign of respect in itself, from my people. He replied sharply, stressing with his tone that he meant 'advanced' in the years of a Short-life. Any Draw past primary education knew all a Human knows in its lifetime or more. Pathetic creatures. Finished with his dialogue with the creaking Quick, he looked over the form from behind the other's shoulder. His lips pressed into a thin Eton line before sighing, You people really don't like getting anything done, do you? War dwell curls his upper lip in disgust, slowly shaking his head with disapproval of the draw's harsh tongue. By now the dark elf's words have begun to grind and grate at the Inquisitors mind, and the expedition hadn't even begun. Why in all the god's names had this particularly offensive of individuals be chosen for this journey? So far the draw seemed good for very little but waggling that acidic tongue of his, and although Samuel rarely cared for what dark things were said about him, he was not one to accept blatant disrespect directed towards the Church of the Law, or towards those who worked for the good and most noble establishment. As soon as the draw has finished his speech, the Inquisitor replies with a great sigh before speaking again, annoyance somewhat evident in his usually fairly unemotional voice." Your people? Aye, I know all about your people, as do many of the others who consider themselves good and just in this wicked world of ours. They're villainous and vile, draw. It might even be said they're as foul as the spiders they worship so blindly. Rapers, sinners, and cowards the lot of them, hiding behind their poisons and within their shadows, just as ready to stab you in the back as they are to bend their knee in genuflection to their false and unclean idol, their 'Loath'. You're just like the others I've read of, and studied. Pompous prats possessing naught but a caustic tongue and an ego several sizes too large for their own mortal coils." He crosses his arms together and glares towards Phys'all intently, clearly having had enough of him by this point." It is even said that dark elves, as they are sometimes called, possess a skull of a smaller diameter than that of a man. Some say that this is due to the general shape of the head, much more lithe than the humans, with a bone mass much lighter than that of a dwarf. Regardless of the reason, by the time the skull has completely formed, the brain can only fill a certain space, meaning that the brain of a draw is smaller than that of any other civilized race, even the surface elves such as our good lady here. With any luck, when the gods finally reclaim your soul for themselves, they'll leave your body mostly untouched. It would do me will to look for myself and see whether the studies are true. I have been too harsh. Perhaps I oughtn't berate you so thoroughly for your ignorant way of viewing the world." "As the studies suggest, it is only in your nature to be simpleminded." Originally Posted by Hexagon Race carefully glances over the form one last time, making sure that all the fields are filled correctly, then hands it in to the secretary. He makes eye contact, and pointedly casts his eyeballs the dark elf behind him, and whispers (not terrible quietly), "Don't mind him. He was raped and tortured as a child and just thinks that's how everyone is supposed to behave." Then, slightly louder, "Maybe if you didn't need half the continent's present population to follow behind you into the wilds, we could've done it quicker." He turns to the secretary and asks her a quick question." Now, milady, may I ask when it is we are to be finished here? I fear we have already wasted more time than necessary, and I am eager to begin our journey." Without a word, the elf takes the sheet and rapidly scans through, notating it with her pen. When she finishes, she folds it, takes a bell from under the table and rings it, and a moment later a halfling comes in from the door behind the desk. He takes the note and leaves." I believe," she says in a very controlled tone of voice, "That that is about everything. Take this sheet, which will serve to get you your supplies, which should be ready within the hour at our warehouse. The location is marked. Further, it will ensure you free and safe lodging from here to Easel. In Easel, you'll report to the Judge Print or his representative for your specific assignment, though that will likely be in written form and not an actual meeting." As she slides the paper across the table, you see that the legalese and permissions only take up the first eighth of the page. The rest appears to be a frank analysis of your intentions, coupled with suggestions. Singling Phys'all UT in particular, it's recommended that he be kept away from civilized areas with poor defense and never sent off for lone work. War dwell has only praise for his apparent character. The others "seem to be trustworthy workers at first glance."" If there is nothing else, you may while away your free hour as you will. And, Phys'all, take this." She tears her second sheet carefully in two and slides one half to you." A copy of the bill for damages. This will be removed from the first payment you receive for your work."250gp. It was a nice desk. Phys'all's face stays exactly as he left it while the Idiot Inquisitor spouted his noise some rhetoric. Once the Quick was finished, and they had moved out of the building, did the Emerald Spider retort. Indeed, we Draw are vile, cunning fiends as likely to stab each other in the back as have tea on a given afternoon. He began with a sneer, It has made us a stronger race than anything seen above or below the surface of Fern. And what do your 'civilized" ways active? Hmm? You war with each other openly, slaughtering each other on bloody fields of battle, losing hundreds and hundreds of lives. For what? Borders? Few. Trifling things. He openly laughed at the examination of his skull structure, Oh yes, that must be it. Though all Races Even have a capacity to continue learning for hundreds upon hundreds of years, while your broad-faced Round-Ears manage to stop remembering how to not wet yourselves at... ninety? And your ears, smaller and without point, can pick up around...a fifth of the normal range for Draw? And you cannot see heat as we do. Your race would be hopeless in the Underdark, young ling. He chided right back, And another thing... He began again, turning towards the man, face suddenly serious, The Sun Worshipers hunted and attacked my people for thousands of years before the Draw were as they are now. Mercilessly driven from our lands on the claim that Alistair did not favor us. He jabbed his finger towards the man's face momentarily before regaining himself, YOU are a Priest of the God of Retribution! You of all the pathetic Quick son this hopeless sheet of sun-baked rock should understand that my reaction is perfectly justified, if under-fulfilled. Originally Posted by Reagan Without a word, the elf takes the sheet and rapidly scans through, notating it with her pen. When she finishes, she folds it, takes a bell from under the table and rings it, and a moment later a halfling comes in from the door behind the desk. He takes the note and leaves. "I believe," she says in a very controlled tone of voice, "That that is about everything. Take this sheet, which will serve to get you your supplies, which should be ready within the hour at our warehouse. The location is marked. Further, it will ensure you free and safe lodging from here to Easel. In Easel, you'll report to the Judge Print or his representative for your specific assignment, though that will likely be in written form and not an actual meeting." As she slides the paper across the table, you see that the legalese and permissions only take up the first eighth of the page. The rest appears to be a frank analysis of your intentions, coupled with suggestions. Singling Phys'all UT in particular, it's recommended that he be kept away from civilized areas with poor defense and never sent off for lone work. War dwell has only praise for his apparent character. The others "seem to be trustworthy workers at first glance." "If there is nothing else, you may while away your free hour as you will. And, Phys'all, take this." She tears her second sheet carefully in two and slides one half to you. "A copy of the bill for damages. This will be removed from the first payment you receive for your work." 250gp. It was a nice desk. War dwell watches the halfling leave from the corner of his eye, although he continues gazing forward towards the draw disrupting what would have been a very quiet and peaceful morning for the Inquisitor, his scowl only deepening. Though his eyes remain facing Phys'all for more time than strictly necessary, he eventually turns completely to loom over the paper on the desk, nodding a tad as he reads over the praise directed towards him. With that done, he slowly ponders over whether he'd heard of a Judge Print before this day, until he's of course distracted by Phys'all's timely response. Originally Posted by Ontario Phys'all's face stays exactly as he left it while the Idiot Inquisitor spouted his noise some rhetoric. Once the Quick was finished, and they had moved out of the building, did the Emerald Spider retort. Indeed, we Draw are vile, cunning fiends as likely to stab each other in the back as have tea on a given afternoon. He began with a sneer, It has made us a stronger race than anything seen above or below the surface of Fern. And what do your 'civilized" ways active? Hmm? You war with each other openly, slaughtering each other on bloody fields of battle, losing hundreds and hundreds of lives. For what? Borders? Few. Trifling things. He openly laughed at the examination of his skull structure, Oh yes, that must be it. Though all Races Even have a capacity to continue learning for hundreds upon hundreds of years, while your broad-faced Round-Ears manage to stop remembering how to not wet yourselves at... ninety? And your ears, smaller and without point, can pick up around...a fifth of the normal range for Draw? And you cannot see heat as we do. Your race would be hopeless in the Underdark, young ling. He chided right back, And another thing... He began again, turning towards the man, face suddenly serious, The Sun Worshipers hunted and attacked my people for thousands of years before the Draw were as they are now. Mercilessly driven from our lands on the claim that Alistair did not favor us. He jabbed his finger towards the man's face momentarily before regaining himself, YOU are a Priest of the God of Retribution! You of all the pathetic Quick son this hopeless sheet of sun-baked rock should understand that my reaction is perfectly justified, if under-fulfilled. As Phys'all speaks, War dwell decides he's heard enough from the draw. He speaks towards the elf at the desk once more, nodding his heard to her and reaching for the form he'd need." I thank you for your assistance, milady. Good day to you." With that, he'll simply walk away, ignoring the jab of the dark elf's finger. As he leaves, however, he does pause briefly, almost seeming to want to say something. However, he decides it would not be worth it to respond to Phys'all, and simply leaves out that way, his black cloak billowing behind him until the only sound that can be heard from him would be the fading clatter of his boot and metal leg upon the floor.---He'll head to the warehouse immediately, and stop for some sort of quick meal before continuing towards the location he was told to head towards, ever the solitary man. Simon silently follows War dwell. He learned long ago to leave discussions between religious people to the religious people. His worship doesn't require such..........formality. Race raises his eyebrows as he watches the two angry men simmer with slightly-tempered rage, both restraining themselves until the more appropriate opportunity to throw rhetoric that explain exactly why he is better than the other one at each other arises." Sorry about them. Either they'll grow complacent about each other's presence, and become best friends forged in the fire of war, or they'll kill each other by this time next week. One or the other." Rawne glances at the surface of the writ, then tucks it into his jacket." Thanks, uh, Miss...what was your name?"" Oh, and one last thing, are we to receive a scroll of sending from the warehouse, and in the event we are to use it, contact you, or some coordinator in Easel?" "You may call me Sale. That will suffice. Your scroll will wait with your goods, and you will contact whomever you ought be based on the information you have. Likely, it will be your contact in Easel, barring major development of continental significance. Should that occur, contact me before you die." She proceeds to start moving papers about, making marks here and signing there, eventually making piles on the right become piles on the left. She's clearly done with you. Food is available for you all at the inn(s) at which you've surely been staying. It's uninteresting and filling. With salt, it almost emulates flavor. The warehouse is a large, vaguely smelly building on the outskirts of town. There's a thin hubbub about as people come and go, some bringing goods, some taking them. The road should be rutted with wheel tracks from the carts, but the Church sees to their constant maintenance. You are directed to what seems to be a side door, and a burly dwarves woman, who introduces herself as Sahara, receives your list. Her eyes widen when she reads it through." Not afraid to ask for what you want, eh? Unusual. Most adventurers get cowed by the Judge--Lord Judge, I mean, beggin' your pardon." She waves a number of other workers--two humans and a halfling of surprising size--over and divvies up the work with them. They begin moving in and out of the building, piling the goods in front of you. Spoiler: Pile Hide Oil, eight pints. Tents, three. Signal whistles, four. Manacles with simple locks, two. Hempen rope, fifty feet. Lamps, two. Hammers, two. Wood axes, three. Bow saw, one. Wood chisel, one. Mugs, two. Jugs, two. Chain, twenty feet. Chalk, five pieces. Canvas, ten square yards. Flint and steel, two. Fishhooks, three. Map cases, two. Blank books, two. Ink, six ounces. Ink pens, two. Shovels, two. Pickaxe, one. Compasses, two. Pack mule, one. Pack saddle, one. Shiny rocks, 10 pounds. Bucket, one. "Y'had signal whistles on there twice, so I just took the bigger number. I don't know what an Astrolabe is, and I have 'veto power' so I ignored it. Are the rocks good for baubles?" Race looks through the pile briefly, pausing a moment to grab a couple rocks." Yes, these are fine, thanks. By the way, is that mule trained?" Rawne pulls the saddle out of the congeries, and starts attaching it to the aforementioned mule. Phys'all enters just after Race, a smug, victorious smirk tugging enthusiastically from time to time at the corner of his mouth as he basked in the afterglow of yet another intellectual victory over a Lesser who thought too highly of himself. He looked over the pile as well, Did they at least manage to get climbing gear? I WAS actually serious about all, most half of that list, you know. He inquired. Originally Posted by Reagan "You may call me Sale. That will suffice. Your scroll will wait with your goods, and you will contact whomever you ought be based on the information you have. Likely, it will be your contact in Easel, barring major development of continental significance. Should that occur, contact me before you die." She proceeds to start moving papers about, making marks here and signing there, eventually making piles on the right become piles on the left. She's clearly done with you. Food is available for you all at the inn(s) at which you've surely been staying. It's uninteresting and filling. With salt, it almost emulates flavor. The warehouse is a large, vaguely smelly building on the outskirts of town. There's a thin hubbub about as people come and go, some bringing goods, some taking them. The road should be rutted with wheel tracks from the carts, but the Church sees to their constant maintenance. You are directed to what seems to be a side door, and a burly dwarves woman, who introduces herself as Sahara, receives your list. Her eyes widen when she reads it through. "Not afraid to ask for what you want, eh? Unusual. Most adventurers get cowed by the Judge--Lord Judge, I mean, beggin' your pardon." She waves a number of other workers--two humans and a halfling of surprising size--over and divvies up the work with them. They begin moving in and out of the building, piling the goods in front of you. Spoiler: Pile Hide Oil, eight pints. Tents, three. Signal whistles, four. Manacles with simple locks, two. Hempen rope, fifty feet. Lamps, two. Hammers, two. Wood axes, three. Bow saw, one. Wood chisel, one. Mugs, two. Jugs, two. Chain, twenty feet. Chalk, five pieces. Canvas, ten square yards. Flint and steel, two. Fishhooks, three. Map cases, two. Blank books, two. Ink, six ounces. Ink pens, two. Shovels, two. Pickaxe, one. Compasses, two. Pack mule, one. Pack saddle, one. Shiny rocks, 10 pounds. Bucket, one. "Y'had signal whistles on there twice, so I just took the bigger number. I don't know what an Astrolabe is, and I have 'veto power' so I ignored it. Are the rocks good for baubles?" For War dwell, lunch composes of an uninteresting meal of broth and bits of somewhat overcooked chicken. However, the Inquisitor did not seem to particularly mind. After many long years of horrid meals while in captivity, the man had grown quite used to appreciating even the most poorly cooked of meals as long as he got something to eat, a privilege he didn't have at times during his life. As soon as the meal was over, the man makes his way to the room he was staying at, before dressing himself and preparing to make his way towards the warehouse he was instructed to head towards. As he makes his way through the streets he'll ignore anyone he comes across on the path for the most part, although he does look about from here to there every once in a while, ever vigilant. Throughout his many years of hunting and killing the many evils of the world, he's learned to always be on guard, even in a relatively safe location. One could never be truly certain... The walk is fairly short, and eventually he finds his way towards the warehouse. He'll stride forward, his dark cloak flowing behind him as it often does. Once inside, he'll accept directions to the area he needs to walk to, and follows them easily. Upon noticing the dwarves woman, he'll simply nod with his face as blank and unreadable as ever. However, as soon as she mentioned Genus, he'll narrow his eyes to her and speak brazenly." It would not suit a woman of your position to speak ill of the Lord Judge so thoughtlessly. The Lord Judge does not 'cow' anyone. It would do you well to remember that, lest someone less forgiving than I hear you and mistake your tasteless jest to be treasonous... That would be a shameful waste of a good worker, now wouldn't it?" "However, I thank you for your work. Your competence has been noted, however your words have as well." "Not on the list, not in the pile,"says Sahara."I's the Lord Judge's rules...and I glorify the law through obeisance." These final words are stiff in her mouth, sounding rusty and rote. More than to Phys'all, she seems to direct them to War dwell. She's apparently cowed." Mule's trained to pull its load and to avoid battles. Ain't much more a creature that dumb can learn." Are you sure about that? My companions beg to differ..... Shimon says with a twinkle, having held his tongue a little too long. The one on the left can even say things, not smart things mind you, but definitely speech, and at length.... I'm not making this up. Hopefully, he talks to the mule. "Great." Rawne starts sorting through the things proper, stuffing them away in various saddlebags, or tying them to various frames and straps, or, in the case of one bucket, popping out a dagger when no one is looking, and scratching even runes onto the surface. The bucket, thereby emblazoned with the grand vigils of House Abarth, is presented with great ceremony to the eminent messenger of the Deep Country. Which means, Race scribbled "Phys'all" on the side of the bucket, then came up behind the dark elf and stuck it on his shoulder when he wasn't looking." Here you go. Feel free to fill it with the blood of the impure at your leisure." Rawne returns to the glistening heap of requisition, and continues packing the bulk of it into the mule's containers."who's a good mule? Is it you, Sal? You better be a good mule, you thrice-damned beast" Originally Posted by Reagan "Not on the list, not in the pile," says Sahara. "Them's the Lord Judge's rules...and I glorify the law through obeisance." These final words are stiff in her mouth, sounding rusty and rote. More than to Phys'all, she seems to direct them to War dwell. She's apparently cowed. "Mule's trained to pull its load and to avoid battles. Ain't much more a creature that dumb can learn." War dwell looks over the young dwarf woman again before nodding sternly." Yes, yes they are." He'll continue, turning from her and breathing in the air, more than ready to get on the way." And yes, yes you do. Continue to do so, and the gods will look down upon you with pride. Only good things come to those who earn the appreciation of the gods, and of the church." "And only pain comes to those who don't." He'll gaze at Phys'all as the bucket is placed on his shoulder. He chuckles darkly to himself before cracking the slightest of smiles, although he does not bother saying anything to the heathenish draw." When are we to set off?" Phys'all snorted what could possibly have been a chuckle at the bucket, taking it in his hand." I feel as though one of your Human jokes is being set up with this..." He commented offhandedly. He looked up at the Inquisitor and nodded, "I require food, but I shall luncheon with some of the nobles I will be visiting shortly. Give me some time, and I shall acquire us...additional funding." He remarked matter-of-factly before setting the bucket on the pile and heading towards the inn to fetch his retainer for a task. Race finishes strapping up the various varying straps, and yells at the departing elf." Inn. Two hours. We've got plenty of sun left today, we better get started. They ain't paying us to sit around." Then, to the people who haven't run off,"For those of us who haven't eaten yet, that now, then we should see about acquiring some food for the road, eh?" The controversial bucket flies up in the air, seemingly of its own accord, and lands back on Phys'all in a manner to suggest that this is a bucket who knows who his master is, and has grown attached. This time, however, it lands upside down on Phys'all's head. Spoiler: IOC Hide Unseen Servant In two hours time, you are gathered at the inn with all of your intended atrocities committed without incident. With Easel near enough and the day still bright, you could well expect to be at your destination before nightfall. Indeed, the innkeeper advises you to go, perhaps in part due to the fact that something about your party makes him quake.--------------------Easel is 7 miles to the north. The road leading to it is beginning to be laid with stone, but only an hour from Rhenish it has fallen into being little more than one great rut leading northwards. Never a great forest, the landscape near the path has been clear-cut to allow comfortable sight lines in such a dangerous land. Or, rather, what was a dangerous land. Between two civilized points, the road is safe enough that you see lone travelers walking towards the main city. The sky is bright and blue, fading slowly as the hours advance. Perhaps three after you've started out, the sun is beginning to dip into its late afternoon slump, the ground is shifting again to stone, and you are entering through the wall of Easel. Eksel, like any city in a dangerous foreign land, began well-fortified with comfort eschewed for security. Not much has had time to change, and the outer wall is still a double layered log affair. Compared to Rhenish--or, certainly, anywhere back across the sea--this city is small. On a busy day, it might push one thousand people, and that's only before half of them return to Rhenish before supper. The guards ask what your purpose is, and upon ascertaining it, one points you to an inn where your papers will suffice as payment. Race squints at the falling sun, judging how much daytime is left, then looks back at the group." Find the important people, then inn for the night, off in the morning?" Rawne turns back to the helpful guard again, and asks,"Where would the important people be?" "The Judge and the Mayor both keep regular hours in the City Hall, just behind the Temple of the Three. From your inn, it's just to the main street and straight north. Go around the temple. You can easily miss it, but you probably won't twice. If you have trouble, ask anyone. Folks are nice enough as long as you aren't preaching non-interference with the primitives." The guard--a young (HU)man of around twenty-five years--squints at the setting sun." You're probably too late to catch them now. They'll be back by the time trade's starting up again tomorrow, though." It's been a long day's travel. Let's turn in for the night and catch the important people in the morning. And by "turn in", I mean "I want a drink". "Any objections? No? Let's go." Rawne sets off through the gate, towards the inn, dragging the mule behind him. The rooms at the inn are comfortable enough, and between two of them, there's enough bed for all of you to sleep, though not necessarily for you all to have your own. Mice seem to keep to themselves and bugs aren't above an acceptable size. The dinner is a flavorless mash of some variety and a broth so rich and salty you feel you would be happy drinking it for the rest of your life, which would likely be very brief if you did. The alcohol, on the other hand, is either a very watery substance that only suggests it might have some intoxicating nature or a great tankard of something more viscous and black than any drink you've seen before. It's apparently a local favorite, though no local seems to be drinking it. It smells like alcohol and death, and has Bad Idea written all over it. I'll have a beer or too. I'm not a fan of drinking things I can't see through. Shimon starts off with his first drink. MMM, tasty stuff, and by "tasty" what I mean is "its wet, and that's good enough for me". Any of you guys want to tell me what that dark stuff is? I'm going to admit, I'm curious but not curious enough to taste it. There was this one time....well, I'll skip the details but let's just say it started with a drink and ended up with a baker asking a ship's captain where his eldest daughter was, and not nicely. Not that it had anything to do with me, mind you..... Race sits silently, with the remains of what was a bowl of broth. Currently, the bowl contains the delicious, deadly dregs of the good stuff, mixed in with a dollop of the unknown mash, which seems to made of raw wheat stalks and dirt. He seems to be attempting to mix them together, searching for a balance that would produce some sort of food with tangible taste and slightly healthier than eating pure lard. Next to it, there are two almost untouched tankards, one of the black sludge and the other of almost-water. The black sludge lies undisturbed, like some monk's long-term experiment with a sealed glass bottle filled with various life, the surface almost seeming to undulate. The not-quite-water has had one sip taken from it, after Race witnessed Simon drinking it and not dying immediately. He stopped drinking it after realizing it had almost negative flavor. Momentarily, Race considers mixing the two similarly as he had the food, though he's not sure if that will create some deadly, volatile chemical concoction. Instead, he pokes at the mash in the broth, waiting for someone to tell Simon what it even is. Oddly, the thick black substance reminded Phys of the fungus-brews from home. He sat sipping the concoction while Lundy brought whatever he could get from the kitchens to his seat before the fire where he lounged with his Crenshaw." We should see about additional funding..." He remarked as he scratched his monstrous cats behind their ears, "Far'o'did Brandi formula?" He asked in what would be considered a coo coming from a human, the night stalking beasts one of the few things to quell the flames within him. Do you think we are likely to get that funding without having given anyone justification for it yet? I'm not wise in the ways of religious orders, obviously, so I will have to defer to you on their likely actions. Unless, of course, you had an alternative idea. He, of course I do. Over have only one plan, Abbie chuckled, We just need to find the rich people here and talk them into a...more profitable agreement than the church will...what is the word? Acquiesce to. He commented cool before looking up toward his retainer, Lundt, go find a jeweler. Let them know a House Abarth artisan wishes to talk shop about services to render and clientele. Bring him here by the fire. He ordered, waving to let the man know to set off at once. Well, I'm all about it. But since your plan doesn't come into play until tomorrow, I'm going to leave this excrement to the pigs that it was obviously made for and go get some rest. Simon does indeed, take his leave early to go sleep. This is with the intention of getting up before the rest of the group, to go pay a visit to the market, and see what sort of magical or interesting implements may be available. It's a new world, it may have new item she thinks to himself. And who better to blend the old and the new, then a guy who already blends? And then(1d20+17)[20]he also hits it with his axe

Heirs of the New World_ Conquerors|rating:4.0

Fear Of Rejection (Closed)

For about a hundred years hunters have been hunting down shape-shifters. Many shifters were very violent, but there were also many who were not, they wanted to be left alone. To find a mate, have children and to have a peaceful life together. But hunters do not understand it, all they see are monsters and they do not know love. Which really upset other shifters. But now in the year 2012 in a small town in Virginia close to the beach, something was about to happen. Eden was supposed to be the next hunter, she was trained to be lethal to never love. But her heart was never into it, she had been sent to kill a shifter once. But what she didn't know, was the shifter was a child about five years old. Eden at the time was thirteen, and trying to make the kill? She couldn't do it. Her parents disowned her because they were hunters as well, she was thrown out of the house at the age of sixteen. She had a hard life, but who hadn't. She was homeless for a good year, doing odd jobs for food, and she went to a shelter for showers. Saving up what she got, she managed to look nice to get a job being a waitress. She still managed to get through school, and graduated on time. Which was hard to do. But she managed to get a nice apartment, and to live like normal people did. But she met a guy named Grant, he was rather mysterious, and they talked and soon became close friends. She couldn't nail his age down and wouldn't ask, not that age mattered. She would guess no younger than eighteen and no older than twenty-five. But knowing him for about a year, they really got close, but she hadn't told him her secret. Thinking she was crazy, but one night she was home alone and heard a knock at the door. She was wearing a pair of shorts and a tank top. Opening up the door she smiled, her gray eyes lighting up. "Grant?" She showed him inside and shut the door. Grant wasn't a normal guy, he wasn't human either, but he had fooled many people over the years, and Eden was no different, other than that he liked her. She had something about her, he didn't see in the rest of the humans he passed. But it was close to time to take one of histripsand he thought he'd stop by and talk a bit with Eden before leaving. He knocked, she answered, and soon he was sitting on her couch chatting. Grant fond that he was a lot more open with Eden than anyone he had ever met before, and they had become good friends quickly. He always lost track of time when he was with her and when he did look up it was a lot later than he thought it was. He had to leave soon, before he wouldn't be able to hold his human form any longer. He smiled at her as he always does and as a human he felt everything a normal human would, and he was almost always fighting the boner he had for Eden, but she was special, and he hadn't met anyone like her before. So he kept himself in check, which was already hard for him given the fact that often his kind would feed on the sexual energies of humans. And the reason he would go missing for about a month every 4 months or so, he'd have to sleep more without the normal supply of women his kinda would consume. As she spoke with him, it was almost like something was wrong with him, he seemed different from normal, and she noticed how he would go missing at a month at a time. Which was something that actually scared her a lot. She wanted to talk to him about it, wondering if he would ever tell her. She knew he had trouble trusting people, she could tell certain things about people. And that would be one of them. Right now she was just happy and couldn't help but wonder what was going to happen tonight." Grant I sense there is something wrong. You know you can tell me anything right?" She reached over stroking his cheek. She really cared for Grant, he was a rather unique guy and needed a special woman that she knew all to well. And she wanted to be that special woman, having no idea what he hid that was actually skin deep. Her gray eyes looking into his own eyes and silently sighed a bit, wanting to know what it was. She just wanted to lean over and kiss him, but she wasn't that brave. She knew nothing about guys really. His brown eyes locked with her for but a moment, and he couldn't lean in and kiss her. He gave her a kiss with everything human in him. He knew it probably wasn't a good idea, but after so long, so many years without feeding he hoped she might understand. But he took a risk here, if she didn't understand, turned away from him. He had only killed 3 others in his long life, he knew why the humans feared and hunted his kind. But he hoped, but would he have to kill her like the others? As they kissed, he let his tongue taste her, it was only human, but he could taste her better if he wasn't in this form. But for now he enjoyed her taste and then a spike, his eyes turning deep black for but a moment. He could feel his body telling him it was time to change back, to rest. He made sure Eden was not looking as he removed his hand from her shoulder as they made out, watched as his hand turned black and then back to his normal human color. His right hand trembled slightly, and if she asked, he'd lie and say he hadn't ever gotten this far with a woman before. His plan of saying a short goodbye was quickly turning into a race against time and his own fears of what she might say if she saw his true self. Everything in her was spinning as he kissed her, but she sensed a want within him and had no idea what it was. But the way he kissed her she had a feeling if he asked what was wrong he would lie to her, she could detect lies very easily. Kissing him deeply, she wanted to be with him, she loved him so much. Right now all that mattered was the two of them, she ran her fingers against his cheek very lovingly. And looked up into his eyes, looking at him with the love she held for him. And saw his hands and took his hands in hers." Tell me what is wrong Grant and if you love me you won't lie to me, I love you and that will never change. I love you more than life itself and what ever is wrong you can tell me, no matter how difficult" She squeezed his hand even tighter, and really not giving him a chance she kissed him back even more passionately as she showed him everything would be okay no matter what. Her heart was racing with how good he made her feel, and right now everything was just so perfect. Grant different but couldn't help himself. He picked Eden up and walked her to her bedroom, dropped her on the bed and stripped naked in front of her. He was running on something else, his mind yelling at him, but his body kept going on autopilot. Furthermore, he quickly removed Eden's tank top and shorts and panties before he pushed her down on the bed and kissed her with everything he had, both human and shape-shifter. He didn't waste time and his human cock quickly found Eden's pussy, and he drove into her with all he had, the animal in him, the raw lust that he had trapped away so long, the hunger, the need to feed on her drove him on. Furthermore, he was losing control though, his legs starting to melt into the blackness that he was when he was not human, or animal or hiding from the outside world. As his body slowly melted and his cock started to melt, it also grew, his mass or rather volume was much bigger and so what was once a big cock was now slowly melting and expanding in side as Grant drove himself into Eden. She felt something in that kiss, and before she knew it that he picked her up and put her on her bed, and watched as he quickly got undressed. And before she could ask a question or even take her own clothing off he removed them himself. And getting between her legs she looked into his eyes seeing something a big need that she didn't understand just yet. And then when they were both naked she felt him kissing her, and moaned happily feeling him getting between her legs, she ran her fingers in his hair moaning happily. But she felt how rough he was getting and moaned when he took her quickly, she wrapped her arms around him as they kissed deeply, and roughly it was a nice feeling, actually. But as he took her she noticed his skin and the way his cock. When she opened up her eyes she saw him and her eyes went a little wide seeing what was happening to him. "Grant....what is happening to you?" She said not understanding, but she didn't struggle to get away her body and mind accepted what was going on. "Hungry..." Was the last human words that escaped his mouth before Eden was hugging a black mass, sticky and hot, pulsing with life. He was pushing more of his mass into Eden's pussy. Hot pulsing mass that wasn't human and seemed to drink in her very essence, but was starting to push her to her body's limits. His head raised up, and his jaw fell to her chest as he melted, making his mouth big enough to swallow her whole. A gurgling sound escaped him as his body started to stick to hers. Her breasts were soon being sucked and kneaded under the mass, her nipples felt a sharp pain as it felt like he was trying to suck them clean off her body for a moment. The skin under and around the mass felt hot and felt line tiny tongues licking her all over her at once. But before anything else could happen a woman, with a heavy broadsword ran into the room, and wielding the sword like it was a toy, cut Grant's huge melting head in half, sending the top half splattering on the fall wall of her room. Grant's body jerked causing a shock wave of pleasure and pain to pulse through Eden. Grant wasn't dead as the splatter started to slowly move back towards the rest of the mass, but the other woman grabbed Eden by the arm and started to try to pull her from the black mass." Come on now, get up before that thing regenerates and eats you!" She shouted at Eden, pulling her with one hand and ready to take another swing with her sword if need be. Her eyes went wide and realized all to well what he was, but the pleasure he gave her was incredible. She realized what he was feeding off of her sexual energy. And he was starving and realized this was why he would vanish for a whole month every so often, her head was spinning frankly, and her breasts were a bit tender as he sucked on them rather hard, and pretty soon felt him consuming her and felt his slimy body all over her, she didn't even see the hunter at all when he did it. But soon when's he opened up her eyes she noticed his head was removed from the body, and before she could even breath she noticed a woman grabbing her. Hearing that she had to go before he ate her, rage was seen in her eyes as she looked at the huntress. And yanked her arm away from the hunter and slapped her hard in the face. Eden was beyond pissed right now, to her Grant was no monster. But when she tried to take a step on her own she collapsed onto her knees hard. She saw Grant pulling himself together, but she was so dizzy she was having a hell of a time at the moment. "Only monster I see in this room is you hunter, I will not let you hurt the man I love and yes I see him as a man where only you are a monster..." Looking over to him, she crawled over to him a bit. "Grant..." She ran her fingers over him hoping he was alright it really scared her a lot how he had been hurt. The Huntress was taken aback for a moment before she watched Eden crawl over to the recovering mass on the bed."Oh, great another one of you freak fanatics..." The woman said, and put her sword in its holder on her back. She stepped over to Eden and with both hands pulled her away from the mass, and threw her over her shoulder like a sack of potato. She dragged Eden kicking and screaming out to the couch and flopped her down." Listen you monster loving freak, I don't care what he told you, what he promised you. Or even what you think of him or me... He is nothing but a monster who will stop at nothing to eat every last human it can before us Hunters stop them..." She said, and returned the slap with a backhand across Eden's cheek. Grant had moved to the door in top to see the slap and with an ear piecing roar left at the Huntress, she sensed it and was able to draw her sword just enough to use it to split the mass that was Grant in half, but Grant's rage was powering him, and he quickly pulled himself together and started to transform." See... If I hadn't stopped that thing you'd be nothing but one of those spent sluts from some cheap B-movie!" The woman said then put her boot on the couch and pushed off, sending it and Eden across the room and out of the way as Grant finished transforming into something akin to a werewolf. With new-found raze sharp claws Grant was on top of the huntress and her blade clashed with his claws as he roared and used his other claw to make a swipe at her, which she ducked under and hopped back." Ok time to dance you worthless monster scum!" She yelled and charged into the fight. She heard the roar when the woman hit her, she had never been hit before so she grunted a bit. The woman finally let her go and Grant had taken another form, she had to do something. She knew if she did this that she would be exposed she was just afraid of him being afraid of her. She put on a bath robe and tied it, grabbing the sword on the wall that was to be hers. It was the blade of a hunter, and she did what she had to do. Eden wasn't going to let Grant get hurt, and right before she was about to do the finishing blow on Grant. She got into the way and guarded him with her sword, narrowing her eyes. "No one fucks with the man I love you bitch!" She punched the hunter in the nose and batted with her, showing a grace that she had never shown anyone. Circling the woman and knew she had to help him, but she wasn't exactly fully there. Her heart was beating quickly as she pushed the woman off of her, she spun around on her foot and growled as she hit her pretty hard. She tackled the woman quickly using her weight and grabbed her by the throat, her anger made her stronger since she had one hell of an adrenaline boost and began to punch her. She growled a bit as she threw the woman against the wall and cut the back of her legs so she couldn't walk or run. Panting some she didn't like doing this, but she had no choice, her sword was at the side of her. Her black hair hung over her shoulders, and looking at Grant she walked a couple steps and collapsed onto her knees and knew she had a lot to explain. She had a bruise already starting on her face, and her nose was bloody though she didn't even notice it. "Do what you will with her, I made her useless she can't fight." The Huntress lay and turned over to watch Grant melt back to his base form and simply cover Eden's body with its own. She turned away as she heard the sounds of Grant feasting on Eden, the sound of sex with something that had no shape, nothing solid, a gel or goo. She reached into a zipped pocket and pulled out a pill before she quickly swallowed it and passed out. Eden was going through something between heavy and hell. Grant feasted on her young body, yet her body hardly moved from where she dropped to her knees for the whole night. Eden would be the first of the three to awake, Grant still clung to her body, making Eden look like a shadow. She found she could move, see, smell, taste things around her. Grant loved Eden and had stopped just short of taking her life, but the battle had taken a toll on him and for the moment he was a part of Eden, she wasn't even sure how, but she could feel him, feel his mind with hers, feel his thoughts as he slept, and the felt his hunger. She stood and winced as her pussy told her Grant had fucked her raw by the feel of it, but something else caught her attention. The Huntress laying on the floor, she wasn't sure of it was Grant waking or her heightened senses, but she could smell the other woman, and it made her mouth water, like smelling a wonderfully cooked stake being served to her. Kneeling next to the sleeping huntress she reached out with her shadow like hand and one of her fingers touched the other woman's skin, she tasted what Grant tasted of her, she felt the energies flowing through the other woman. Without much thought she stripped the Huntress and looked at her. Grant stirred in the back of her mind, like the smell of pancakes in the morning pulling one out of bed. But he was still resting, she wondered if he could sense her mind but the smell of the warm meal and the woman laying in front of her feeling cold she knew whatever was going to happen needed to happen soon. For the moment everything went black as he made love to her or what ever a shifter would call what he did to her. She didn't even remember falling asleep or passing out, it was startling when she woke up seeing like a suite on her. Slowly standing up she felt so strange. And looking down at herself it was almost like she had on a bodysuit, looking at her hands she was surrounded in Grant? But her senses were going crazy as she felt and smelt what she did. Right now she sensed Grants hunger it was actually her own hunger now, when she locked down she had a cock. Though it was made out of Grant, and knelt down seeing the huntress and knew what she had to do, she stripped her from the waist down and spread her legs. Grabbing the cock she thrust into the huntress which made her scream, Eden cried out she actually felt it. And drove into her body rather hard, she could feel what Grant fed on. It helped the hunger, and it was amazing she threw her head back as she bucked her hips into the woman quickly. The huntress was screaming until she placed her hand over her mouth so she wouldn't wake Grant up. "You bitch for what you have done! Grant needs your body, so I am feeding you to him. If you are lucky I will let you out of her alive!" She hissed and drove into her so quickly. The lust and how hungry they were she cried out. Grunting a bit as she bit the woman very hard causing blood to spill and everything around her was hard. Tasting the blood which cause the huntress to cry out, but giving up an erotic feel she took the huntress as hard as it was possible and right now it was beyond perfect right now. And finally pulled out as the cum came out onto the huntress and groaned. Growling at the woman "You tell the other hunters that there is a hunter guarding Grant. You won't ever hurt him again!" Standing up she grabbed the huntress by the neck and threw her out her front door with her clothing. She wanted to kill her, or to knock her up but knew the baby would be killed so she wouldn't do it, she shut and locked the door feeling a bit better, but he was still hungry, she wanted to give Grant everything that he wanted. Even bare his child if he wanted it, but she would continue to feed him as much as he could take before he had to stop. Grant woke, feeling Eden, and he let out a roar as his lust and hungry that had been tucked away for all those years coming to the surface as he once again attacked Eden's body. His mass pushed into Eden's soft pussy, pulsing and driving deep into her body, forcing her to orgasm over and over, feeding off of her lust, but her cries stuck Grant every time, the taste of blood she could taste as he fed on her, her pussy sore and pushed to its limits. Grant feed for at least another few hours before he finally stopped. He knew he needed rest not to take in all the energies from taking Eden twice and the shared taking of the Hunter." Eden... I know this is hard on you, but... I need more, more food." His voice softly spoken in the back of her mind, she could feel as then Grant was there with her. Pressed close to her hold her." Please find me more food Eden... If I keep feeding off you in this way... I... I don't. Want to... I love you Eden... I won't kill you but... The hungry over the years... Feeding on you..." She could feel his lust, feel what made shifter feared, what started the whole hunt to kill them all so, so long ago. Eden knew that if Grant was the one to feed the women might die, if she fed she could help control him, but was she willing to fuck for Grant, or would she simply find some lovely ladies that might not be missed? When he took her again it was so hard and it was amazing how he felt within her, made her body rather warm and not once did she scream out in fear, though she did scream out in pleasure. But she could tell what he was taking from her, she could feel the essence going into him the whole time. But she wanted him to use her as much as he could because she knew he would have to feed some more. Sighing a bit and when it stopped she still felt the lust that he had in him and the hunger it was toxic. Hearing what he said in her head and realized the hunters truly were wrong about them, true it was hard to control it, but they had good hearts. At least Grant did, she heard the love in his voice and how he would sacrifice himself to protect her. Running her fingers against her arm since it was him she was touching, trying to sooth him the best that she could. Looking at her reflection she knew she could go out like this, and knew that she had to do something. Taking a deep breath she spoke." Shhh Grant I love you it will be okay, when we get you fully fed I will let you feed on me when you need it. So you don't have to go away for a full month, I will take care of you sweetheart I promise alright?" She said with much love in her voice. Grant seemed to understand as he nodded off, but before her did he changed himself into a pair of thong style panties and a bra that just covered her up. He was able to sleep and retain his form now, as he had absorbed some energy now. Eden could feel him in the back of her mind now, resting, sleeping. She could feel him still inside her pussy and knew she could grow a cock or change Grant into what she wanted while he slept for now. He was still linked with her at the moment, and would be till he was fully fed. It didn't take long for another Hunter or rather two, to beginning watching Eden and Grant. They watched from the Shadows and wouldn't make any moves just yet. Eden knew she had to feed him and since it wasn't that cold out she decided to just wear a dress and quickly left the house, she decided to get some prostitutes and knew where they hung out. She would make sure not to kill the girls since she honestly meant no harm, so she went to the red-light district and found two right off the bat. She approached both of them and showed she had money, so she followed the girls to the hotel room they had. Furthermore, she smiled a bit and decided to do something, she blindfolded the girls and tied them up. Since she was giving them each a thousand dollars they didn't seem to care, and then hiking up the dress the one woman had she thrust the cock that formed and groaned hoping that this would help Grant in the process. The woman was surprised but began to fuck her rather hard, and reaching her hand out as a tentacle formed and went into the other woman's body and thrusting her hips as there lust went into her body and transferred to Grant. She pounded into both of them harder and harder. Until both of the girls came to an orgasm and everyone groaned. Leaving the girls she untied them and left them two thousand and went into the alley and panted some, but she smelt something rather sweet and saw someone who looked close to her age. Grabbing the woman from behind and a tentacle went into the girls panties and groaned tasting the difference, she thrust the cock up into her and looked down seeing a bit of blood and knew it was a virgin. And unable to control herself thrust into the girl putting her hand over her mouth to keep her from screaming. Virgins tasted much better than others, the hint of virgin blood, the taste of an untouched body. The taste caused a burst of lust in both Eden and the poor girl, and the cock started to grow inside her. As Eden fucked the virgin girl she had awoken Grant, and she saw a memory from long ago. A memory of a time not of her own, of Grant near the edge of a forest watching some humans, they stood over a dead woman, fucked to death on the dry dirt near a tree. She couldn't hear the voices clearly, but something, stood out, the crest of the Hunters was on one of the woman's arm bands. The waves of feelings washed over her, guilt, sorrow, fear. Images of other woman, other times flashed before her in the blink of an eye, each new place, new time that overwhelming hungry grew, and in each one a man or woman with the Hunter crest could be seen standing in the shadows. Eden would be able to piece together the story. Grant had made a mistake, had taken a Virgin girl too far, she had died. The echoes of her cries for more, to be pushed to her limits haunted Eden for a moment. Then the town's guard had spotted him, trying to save her, trying to give back the life energies he had taken, but was chased off before doing so. The town's crest that of the first Hunters. One mistake had started a war, no a culling of shifters without reason for over 1000 years. Grant had not fed since that time. All the images she saw was in but a moment between breaths as Eden fucked the virgin girl. She didn't have time to think, or stop or anything, but her training told her to move, and she put both herself and the almost dead virgin on the floor of the ally in time to avoid being cut in two by a Hunter." Good reflexes you monster scum! Now hold still and let me you and what's left of your meal in the trash where you belong!" She screamed and brought her sword up for another swing. But Eden didn't have time to worry about that sword as another almost took her head off. The 2nd Hunter almost had got the jump on her, and they didn't seem to care about the poor girl impaled on a cock that was slowly drilling into her core, a fight against two hunters and against Grant's overpowering lust to feed and become the monster that the Hunters feared would be a true test of Eden's skill and control. The cock spiked in side, and she felt a sharp pain shoot through her own pussy, Grant wasn't awake and in control, his lust and hungry were and unless she took time to control it she would be unable to remove the girl from the black dick without causing her great harm or killing her. As he thrust into the girl she just didn't care anymore his pain was hers, his lust was hers. Everything that he was she was now. His power his mind his everything as she drilled into the woman, normally hunters sensed each other. But Grant made it so she couldn't sense anything and they couldn't sense her. She didn't know they were ganging up on her and knew that everything was going so fast. Nothing seemed to matter to her anymore, her heart beating and her breath nothing but a pant. But then she got visions in her head seeing what she did and seeing how the war had started, the feelings flooded her big time as she slowed down and tried to move out of her but couldn't. Everything was running through her head, and it was terrible, looking down she didn't know what to think anymore. But the woman was breathing still so she wasn't dead but could sense she was near death. She felt big regret to just fuck her like a beast that neither of them were, but then it happened. Hunters came one she saw right away and dodged the best she could, but the woman still stuck on her. She closed her eyes as she saw the visions Grant had given her again, and felt the cock in her relax and felt the woman sliding off her, but she caught her and laid her on the ground. Both woman were going to pay for what they had done now. Growling as her anger formed tentacles on her and hit both woman with it, they both latched on and brought them to her. Using her skills her anger gave her. She ripped there pants and thrust the tentacles in each of them and began to fuck both woman, she didn't know how many more she had to feed on before Grant would be full. But she moaned from the double fined. Both girls tried to fight, but there lust kicked in, she knew she got lucky and next time it would be a bigger fight. She could feel her hunger being more controlled now and not clouding her judgement too much as she took everything they had. And it was easy to tell she would take everything even if she killed them. When they stopped moving she threw them onto the ground." Grant...are you okay now? I don't know how many more I need to get you full" Grant was a bit grumpy waking up and growled at Eden but soon took in what had happened. Listen I know how you feel about the Hunters, But leaving them like that won't do... You've seen how it started, seen why I am why I am... Hate only will lead to more hate..." A pair of black tentacles oozed out of the bra part covering her breast, looking as those nipples had turned into Tentacles, Then moved to the dead hunters and covered slowly covered their bodies. Their clothes were ripped apart, and slowly they returned to Eden's breast, Grant taking the bodies into him. The Girl next to her watched in stunned horror as Eden's breasts had consumed the two other woman, she lay there unable to move, blood dripping out her broken pussy." And take the girl with us... She will need things explained." Grant told Eden, as even she was probably shocked that the two bodies seemed to be eaten by her breasts and only made her chest go up a cup size as the tentacles returned." By the way, might want to stop for some human food too, you've been feeding me, but I can sense your hungry as well. We'll talk when you get to your apartment." She heard his growl and thought it was cute, amazing how he could be so grumpy, but she dealt with it in stride and heard what he said watching and sighed a bit. Looking at the girl she helped her up and blindfolded her since she didn't trust people she didn't know and helped her to her apartment, then removed the blindfold. She had forgotten her own hunger and sighed a little bit, everything around her seemed to close in on her. But she dealt with it best she could, and with a smile. Soon before she knew it she began to explain what was going on to the girl, she seemed scared but calm at the same time. She took the girl into the bathroom and cleaned her up, apologizing for what had happened, but she didn't try and bolt out and that made her happy. She seemed to be shocked about everything but after a while things seemed to fall in place. Right now it was just so perfect. Once she was taken care of she made something to eat and sat down, not waking Grant again. After batting Eden went back into the bedroom and saw the girl curled up on her bed sleeping, though after a moment Eden had seen she had not given the girl any new clothes so she was laying there half naked. She looked up at the corner of the room and saw a woman in a black skin tight catsuit holding her index finger to her lips." I'm not here to hurt you my dear." She said and stepped into the light coming from the open door from the rest of the small apartment." You have been a very hard woman to track down till the other night." She said. Eden tried to move but found she could not, she tried to wake Grant but found her link seemed to have been cut off."Ah, yes... Just making sure I have a chance to explain myself..." The short haired red head told her and held up a small palm sized round disc like item." A short range analyzation device. It will were off in a moment. My name is Sarah... I'm a Hunter... Though not like the others." She said and stepped forward, and with quick hands stripped Eden down to just Grant. She smiled and placed her hand over Eden's right breast and pulled her hand away and looked at the bare palm." Hmmm..." She looked at Eden leaned in and gave her a Kiss, and Eden felt a share pain on the back of her neck. The woman stepped back and pressed her hand against the same spot as she had just done a moment ago. She looked at Eden and smiled." This might hurt a little Eden... But for the next 24 hours you and Grant won't have to worry about any more Hunters." She said and pushed her hand into Grant, and into Eden's breast. The woman slowly pushed her hand in, like sinking into mud from the looks of it. Eden could feel her hand inside her in an odd way. She knew that it meant she was still linked with Grant, but still, it wasn't a pleasing feeling having the woman sticking her hand into her breast like this. Edens eyes went wide as the woman's hand seemed to be coming out between her legs." Hmmm... Oops. Sorry, Where did your friend here put those bodies?" She asked, more to herself since Eden soon found she couldn't speak either. She looked at Eden as she pulled her hand out of her breast. Furthermore, she gave Eden an apologetic look Before she kneeled down in front of Eden and reached both hands up into Eden's pussy. Eden felt the woman digging around inside Grant, inside her and winced. After a few moments she heard a wet pop and one of the dead hunters lay on the ground between her legs. But the woman wasn't done and got the 2nd body before she stood up again. She moved the bodies and tapped one of her earrings and a moment later Eden heard her front door open and two men walked in, wearing black suits and sunglasses. They picked up the bodies and left. The woman stood there a moment and looked at Eden." I'm sorry about that... But anyway, I'll leave a card on the table, if you want to meet me some time tomorrow I'll be at the address on the card." She said, gave Eden a kiss, and then leaned down and kissed her right breast and whispered something that made Grant shiver, before she stood and left Eden be, the effects of the device were weakening and Eden would soon be able to move again. Thankfully the hunger all over her was relaxed once she ate, amazing how Grant could do what he did. How he knew what he did and liked the mental connection they had, she just hopes that Grant didn't need any more, though if he did then she would gladly help him without trouble. She didn't even know what was coming to her, the girl was asleep, but something was off about the moment, she didn't know exactly what was coming but right now it didn't seem to matter to her, she just relaxed. But then she saw a woman, and she tried to move, but she did something to her, and she couldn't move, hearing everything she did. She growled a bit and didn't like it when she was touching her, she wanted to rip her arms off. And then when what was left of the hunters, she felt a bit of lighter and right now she had so many questions. She tried to talk to Grant, but he was either fast asleep or she did something to her. And she could hardly move, once the woman left it took maybe ten minutes before she could move. She didn't understand what the hell that was all about, walking over to the woman she covered her up and laid a pair of pants she didn't wear anymore. And left it for her to change into once she woke up. She went back on the couch trying to figure out what the hell was going on, sitting down she sighed a bit thinking about Grant and was actually tired a bit. Running her fingers against his skin she smiled happily, amazing what she loved. Though to her Grant was everything to her. Eden would wake up on the couch the next morning in a bit of a haze. The last day or so had been a lot and she had needed the rest. But she felt funny between her legs and looked down. She would see the head and feel a tongue working her pussy over, and it felt good, in her half awake state she'd lay back and enjoy it. Grant watched from the small kitchen and smile. He was making himself something to eat in his human form once again. As he watched he thought about last night, and the last day or so. He looked while thinking at the human food and sighed, after last night it didn't taste the same. But he would always need to hide, always need to appear human. He shrugged to himself and continued to eat as the virgin girl from last night continued to eat Eden out. It would take Eden a little bit as she woke up to take note of the link between them wasn't there for the moment. He would talk to her a bit later, and probably try to talk her into going to meet the woman from last night. But for now he let Eden be and finished his human meal. She noticed a feel of licking and seeing someone between her legs, she just allowed the person to do what they wanted. But the more she started to wake up the more she didn't know who was eating her out, yawning a bit she noticed the girl and stopped her, giving her a kind smile and then got up, pulling a robe on and noticed Grant was eating normal food, well human food any way. Looking at him, she placed her hand on his back. Looking into his eyes, it seemed good to see him awake and eating her own food." Grant how you're feeling? I had no idea how many women you needed, so I was hoping that I got you enough" She stroked his cheek lovingly and looked into his eyes. Showing how sweet he was it was beyond amazing right now. Sighing she hugged him just hoping everything was okay, she had some regrets but wouldn't talk about them ever again. Which was more than fine with her at the moment. "Better than I have in a while... But..." He stopped and looked at her. "We took two lives last night..." He watched her, knew she would fight, but against the seemingly endless numbers of the Hunters they would not make it for more than a few years." We should meet with that woman from last night." He said, and then looked over to the girl from last night. She had been a virgin and Eden took her so very close to the edge. Her mind was broken along with her body." The girl... She may not recover... What should we do with her?" He asked Eden, they could kill her, but Grant didn't want to hurt anyone, it wasn't in his nature to kill, and he would like to put it all behind him anyway. She sighed a bit having a lot of regrets as it was, looking at the girl she thought of something. Looking down she wasn't about to kill him. Taking a deep breath she let it all out and had no idea exactly what was to happen. Sighing she ran her hand against her neck and walked up to Grant. "I have someone who can help her, she knows about shifters and what happens to virgins. I am sorry that I caused you problems Grant, I just wanted to help you" She looked down. Grant hugged Eden and held her close to him, put his right hand on the back of her head and patted it lightly." It wasn't the first time I've killed Hunters, and most likely will not be my last either. " He held Eden as he thought as he looked at the girl, her eyes lacked the life humans hand, they seemed dull and almost gray in color. Half closed she seemed as if she were sleepwalking, and in some ways she was. But Grant didn't know if humans could be of much help. Her lief force was tapped out, and she now would feel the need for sexual energies even if she couldn't absorb them like a shifter. The raw lust that was taken from her, and given to her had effected her mind and Grant knew this all too well, the first woman he killed, the virgin girl who simply wanted more and an all to happy Grant at the time gave it to her. As he held her, he wondered if shifter were really meant to coexist or not. But he pushed that out of his mind for now and held Eden, he would protect her, from other Hunters, from other shifter or anything else that would try to harm her." So do you have someone you trust someone enough to watch the girl while we go meet that woman from last night?" He asked her. She looked at the girl and hated herself, perhaps death was a much better option and looked at Grant and nodded. "I know of someone in the hospital, perhaps we should admit her so she can't hurt herself or others?" She looked over at Grant, needing to know what was going to happen, she was terrified of what she could do. Everything around her was just cruel and unusual, but she did what she did out of love and would do it again. "Don't give her that look... You couldn't control yourself in a way... I know all too well what happens if we shifter let our hunger get the best of us." He told Eden. He watched the girl crawl over to Eden like a puppy wanting a treat as she grabbed and held onto Eden's left leg." If you think you can trust your friend at the Hospital then we can leave her there for now." Grant said, as he looked at her. He had a few questions for Sarah when they met here. She had picked a local café, and it was almost always busy, so this wasn't going to be a fight, Hunters hated to start fighters in the open, and hated even more trying to cover up what they thought was their duty to the public. She nodded to Grant and smiled "I trust her with my life Grant" She said and got the girl dressed which was rather hard to do, since she didn't seem to like clothing. Which was why she put on a pair of shorts and a t-shirt and put on some shoes. Thankfully she was the same size as she was and managed to get her in the back of the car. Sighing loudly as she put her in the back and put the seat belt on her, once at the hospital she explained she was ill and needed some looking after. And then headed to Sarah." I don't know if I trust her, why would a hunter help shifters? I did it just well I have a big heart but didn't think any other hunter had hearts" "After what happened to you, I can understand why you don't trust people... Yet you seem to trust Grant here with your life?" Sarah said as she overheard Eden speaking as they walked by the outdoor area of the Café, it was fenced off and Sarah was sitting at a table in the corner, farthest from the door." And I'm sure you do it just like the rest of us do... The thrill, the sexual release like no other." She said this in more of a hushed whisper to the two as they jumped the small fence and sat down at the table with her." To get it out there for you two, I'm part of a small group of Hunters that well, don't think the shifters are evil... We have mated and enjoyed them as lover and friends... Against the Guild's code as you know..." Sarah said, still keeping her voice high enough that Grant and Eden could hear, but avoiding putting it out there for others at the tables next to them. She had no idea what to expect from this woman, but then she met her and was taken aback by what she said. Tilting her head she smiled a little bit and nodded, glad that she wouldn't be hunting Grant. But she didn't think she would ever trust a person with hunter in their job description. When she talked about Grant she nodded to her. "Yes I do trust him with my life, he is the only one I feel I can trust. At least right now, he is a good man, just this ability of him thrust upon him. So you will have to forgive me if I lack trust with you now." She said truly sorry that she didn't feel she could trust her and the group "Just give me some time" She requested and sighed a bit. "Unfortunately I took a virgin and I broke her, I feel terrible for what I've done to her, and I can see why shifters and humans have been at each other's throats. But still I will always be on the side of the shifters, not just because my boyfriend is one but because I want to be. "Ah yes the girl... I had my people go to the Hospital and pick her up, we'll see if we can do anything for her..." Sarah took a sip of her drink and looked at Grant and for a moment both locked eyes to try to tell what the other was thinking, as if they were in combat. Sarah was the first to look away and look at Eden again." And yet the other two you have no regret about? You say you side with the shifter against the Hunters... Yet some Shifters want nothing but to eat their fill and kill as many humans as they can because it pleases them..." She shifted in her seat and looked at Eden. She looked deep with in her, seeming to look beyond her, through her." To end this both sides need to give up this hate, both Hunters and Shifters." Grant cut Sarah off." So why did you remove the Hunters from me?" He asked her, she looked at him, and then to Eden." They were Hunters, they may not have been the brightest or best, but they did not deserve what you were going to do to them." Sarah said, knowing this would cause Eden to jump to his defense, she looked at her and leaned into whisper in her ear as she placed her right index finger across her lips to keep her from speaking out." Your friend there would have kept them as fuck toys, feeding them just enough of his own life energy to keep them among the living till they could no longer take it and would have exploded into some form of cum like liquid." She pulled back and let it sink in, she glanced at Grant who simply smiled at her, waiting for Eden reaction to it. He would not deny what Sarah said, and would not deny that in a way it was sexual torture for the. But he would wait to see what Eden had to say before he said anything. She listened to her and wasn't to sure what to say about the girl, she just hoped Sarah knew what she was doing. But in the back of her mind she was afraid that she would kill her, looking down she didn't know what to believe anymore. She didn't look at anyone, and she was in a rather deep thought. Closing her eyes as she got flashes of that night, to please her boyfriend she fed his desire and lust. Slowly looking up she decided to actually say something. But then heard about some shifters being bad, and she looked at Sarah and nodded a bit. "Those are the only shifters ID fight against, those who love what they are. Who prays on people and don't know when to stop. I would kill them with a bit of sorrow in my heart, but would stop them without hesitating. Not all shifters are monsters Sarah, the shifter I was sent to kill for my first kill. Was a fucking five-year-old, and as far as I know she is all grown up now. That's why I accept Grant"Admitting she was a hunter took a lot of courage since she pretty much was dead to her parents. Looking down she closed her eyes and wanted to just make everything stop. But then she said what she did about the hunters being used as fuck toys, her eyes went wide, and she wanted to yell. But Sarah stopped her from speaking and looked down, not understanding. Slowly looking up and looking at Grant unsure what to believe." Is this true? You wanted to use them as sex toys? Am I not enough? I thought once we got you full I could keep you full on my sexual energy" Grant looked at Eden, Looked into her eyes, they had been linked, but he had kept his darkness hidden from her, hidden from himself in ways." Yes, I would have used them as sex toys, used them giving them just enough life to hang on, till their bodies would give out." He whispered. He had no regret in his voice." And no... I can feed off you for a long time... But to continue to do so would hurt or damage you if I did so for any great length of time." He looked at her, not knowing how she was going to react to this. Sarah didn't let the long pause happen and spoke next." That Shifter you were after wasn't some newborn Eden..." She said as she leaned back in her chair." He or She was an elder shifter... One that has tricked many Hunters before, normally it would have killed you if it hadn't been your first mission..." Sarah said. She knew this would upset Eden, but she had to know the truth. She looked at Sarah not wanting to believe any of this, it was almost too much for her to handle, and right now it was just about too much. Taking a deep breath she shook her head "I never killed that shifter my father did, I refused and because of it my parents threw me out of the house. Being homeless for a year wasn't fun, but what's next you're going to tell me I'm pregnant with his baby or that I am half shifter myself?" She laughed not wanting to insult Sarah, but she had to laugh at something, she was so upset. Though being pregnant with Grant's baby would be nice, but didn't know what Sarah would say. So she was rather curious, though no longer angry anymore. Taking a deep breath she just let herself try and relax. She wasn't about to let herself go, crossing one leg over the other she was truly happy. She reached over and took Grant's hand, showing she wasn't angry at him for what he would have done. "I'm not mad at you Grant, you do what you have to, but you can take as much as you need from me, rather it hurts me I don't care, I love you and want you safe" Sarah looked at Grant and then to Eden. She looked at her glass before she spoke again." You've bonded with Grant there... I've seen the footage... Your about to control Grant's body, use his abilities... Your different Eden... How I don't know..." She looked at Grant and looked back at Eden." I've mated with a shifter before... But from what we know of that and what we saw of your outings the other night... You've somehow bonded with Grant like no other." She said." Grant your probably hungry again... Eden... Do you have some more food lined up for him or do I need to find some for him?" She asked, knowing the look in Grant's eyes. IT would take Grant's body a while to readjust to the energies again, and till then he'd need to feed much more often. Eden didn't understand "How do you know all this? I don't even honestly know how to control his powers. I just let myself take it all in. But how can you possibly know what I am going to be doing in the future?" She asked rather curious about the question, running. Taking a deep breath everything around her stopped. She just sighed a little bit, looking at Grant she ignored Sarah for just a moment and spoke. "No matter what happens I will always stand by you, will always love you okay" She wanted to say it before god only knows what happens. "Had you stuck around long enough you'd find we know a great many things about shifters and their habits." Sarah said, looking at Grant and smiling." But beyond that I know that a normal shifter needs to take in a meal once a day to stay active.... Grant hasn't had a meal in centuries and his awakened hunger must be a monster in and of itself." She added and looked at Eden." You've tasted something no human has ever had the pleasure of, we get hints of it. Like the girl, she is intoxicated with the sense of the sexual energies she got a feel of, her virgin mind blown away by the sickly sweet taste of something she doesn't even understand... I envy you Eden, to taste the fruit none of us normal humans will ever have the pleasure of knowing..." Sarah closed her eyes, she knew she was going on about things Eden probably knew nothing of." So just how much do you know about Grant? How much do you know about how they feed and how much they take from us? You'd be willing to give everything to him you say, then lay down on this table and let him feast on you..." She said, watching Eden and Grant carefully. She sighed a little bit listing to what Sarah said and shook her head "I am not going to prove anything to you, as long as Grant believes me that is all I need. And no way in hell would I let him do it here any way, not everyone knows shifters are even real. I am not going to put his life in danger just to prove a point" She said in a protective manner. She looked at Grant and hoped that he did believe her when she said that she would do everything she could, even if it meant risking her own self. Grant simply watched and listened, Sarah had been right, he was rather hungry and although human food could help keep him going it wasn't what he needed. His eyes watched the waitress's ass move as she walked away after she had brought everyone their food. To others, it would simply seem he was checking out other woman, which may or may not get Eden to poke him once or twice as he looked at other meals around. Sarah didn't say much as they ate either. But she did keep a careful eye on both of them as she had her meal. Eden watched carefully as he "checked" her out and had a rather bad feeling he was starving. Since she noticed that no one was around, and they were in the dark, she placed her hand on his and looked into his eyes. "If your really that hunger Grant, do what you have to do. I don't want your hunger to get out of control again" Sarah sighed and looked for the waitress and got the check and what remained of the food packed to go. She smiled and took both Grant and Eden to her car, a large black unmarked SUV, like one of those out of a movie for the bad guys. After the short drive back to Eden's place she followed them in and put the food away while Grant took Eden's hand and took her to the bedroom." Sorry Eden." He said before he quickly removed her clothes and tossed them to the floor before he tossed her to the bed and crawled up and spread her legs. He looked up at her before his mouth opened, and his tongue changed to his shifter form and darted into her pussy. The thick, mass that felt wet yet solid slide deep into Eden and began to pulse inside of her. It always amazed her how he was able to hold on, dinner was nice thought she did worry about him most of the time. But she was curious about this Sarah, since she was connected to Grant on a way no one else was. She didn't exactly know what that meant, but knew she had a big responsibility to her boyfriend. And she didn't want to end up hurting him, so she was rather careful about what they were doing. After it, she heard him say how sorry he was, when he tossed her clothing on the floor. Then tossed her on the bed, she could see the need in his eyes when he spread her legs to the sides. She smiled at him with much love and watching him shift, and feeling him take her. She threw her head back and cried out "Oh Grant!" She cried out gripping the sheets as she felt him pulse right within her body. Sarah watched and slowly stripped her own clothes and let them fall to the ground to lay next to the ones Grant had discarded from Eden. She crawled onto the bed next to Eden and tilted her head as she watched Grant slowly look as if he was consuming her from her pussy outwards as Grant's body slowly spread over Eden's soft skin. Sarah watches with her own hungry eyes as she slowly traces Eden's left nipple with her index finger." It's beautiful... Watching him spread across your body. Watching as it seems your unable to-do anything but lay there and feed him." She said in a hushed whisper as she watched as he slowly pulsed over her thighs slowly turning from a human into a blob of pulsing black mass covering Eden's body like another skin. Watching she could see Eden's clit and lips pulse as Grant gave her a pleasure like nothing human could. She groaned happily feeling every little inch of him on her, it was amazing, feeling his warmth and feeling the emotions he gave her. Moving her head back as she sighed happily, moving her head back a little bit. Her heart was pounding happily it was a rather wonderful moment. Her breathing showing she was getting excited. And then she noticed what Sarah was doing, and was taken aback by that. Sarah touched her nipple and she groaned even louder, she couldn't really move because of Grant. Slowly Grant covered her legs, covering every inch. Sarah watched as she watched Eden's toes move under the pulsing blackness. She watched as Grant slowly moved up her smooth belly, and as he moved up outside, he was pushing deeper inside her, spreading her and bringing pulses of pleasure deeper into her body. Each pulse sending another wave of pleasure through her. She watched as Eden moved with each new pulse from Grant. She watched as Grant's mass continued to melt onto Eden's body, she moved her finger and slowly moved it over the mass that covered Eden and pressed Eden's clit. The warmth of Grant and the feel of the soft nub of Eden's body under it, and they were in a way one now. She was in such pleasure she didn't even really notice what Sarah was up to, her eyes closed as her heart was beating so quickly. "Oh god!" She panted happily. She tried to move a bit, all the pleasure that he gave her. It was rather hard to stop herself from squirming a little bit, her heart pounding as her heart was pounding all so perfect and panting. Moaning even more as she felt him over just about every inch. Sarah watched as more and more of Eden became covered in black mass. Watching Eden breath as she slowly was covered by the black mass, a shinny effect from the light from outside the bedroom. Slowly the black moved up and started to cover her breasts, Sarah watching with hungry eyes as it covered her breasts, slowly covering her nipples." Lovely...." She whispered as she watched, her pussy wet with pleasure as she watched Eden slowly being consumed by Grant as her began to feast on Eden's body, her energy. She moaned a bit and looked over at Sarah, she slowly managed to reach out for Sarah resting her hand on one of her breasts. Her hand covered in Grant as she began to take a little of her sexual energy as well, but making sure not to get carried away like the woman who she had broken. She was rather happy about how the night was going, everything in her screamed out. Throwing her head back just a little bit, her panting turned into something of trying to catch a breath and her body shook as her orgasm grew. Sarah gasped as she Eden touched her, she could feel the girl feeding on her, but Sarah had been with shifters a lot, learned how to feed them, and Eden tried to only consume some, but got a great deal more as Sarah leaned down and kissed her. As Grant consumed Eden he pieced Eden from inside and as her and Sarah kissed he started to enter her as well, Sarah quickly rolled over and pressed her body onto Eden's as Grant began to consume them both, a thick Tentacle jetting up from inside Eden and down into Sarah. She moaned into the kiss as she wrapped her arms around Eden the best she could. She couldn't tell who was feeding off her more Eden or Grant. Furthermore, she was in pure heaven right now, though she had never been into sleeping with women till she had to. Using some of Grant she managed to form a cock and slid right into Sarah along with the tentacle that was pleasing her, moving up into her. Everything was such a blur with is much they were feeling it was rather remarkable what they were all feeling. Sarah screamed as hard as she could as the cock from Eden pieced her. She could do nothing as she was being covered by Grant. Between the two hungers inside them the cock pulsed and brought Sarah to the edge time and time again. Quickly, overlapping orgasms, all of them she shared with them in the form of her sexual energy, causing the pulsing cock to grow, to gorge itself inside her as she feed them both. Both woman covered in blackness. Two woman, every detail remains, but all black, blending with the darkness of the room, shinning like rubber or latex under the light from the other room. But she felt they had to stop before too much was taken, groaning a bit she looked at Sarah and managed to move off of her. "Grant be careful we cannot take any more from her, you will kill her. And she is the only insider we have" She said in his mind relaxing a bit, it always felt so strange to have him on her, but it was a welcomed feeling. Sarah screamed a silent scream again as she started to pump her hips against the growing cock of Eden's. She wasn't as fragile as the virgin girl before her and she was very used to feeding Shifters. She put off a lot of sexual energies as she pumped more and more. Her pussy tightened around the black cock as it continued to pulse and grow, she would have to be careful, but she was given Eden and Grant more of a meal than the others. She sighed a bit as she felt what Sarah was doing, and she couldn't stop Grants body so she just dealt with it. Moving her head back, it was a rather interesting time to be with him. Panting moving her head back and thrust into her unsure how much more she could take. Grant consumed what he needed for now, and slowly he retracted across the two women. Eden was giving out and Sarah was too. After returning to a human form, and he looked over and saw Sarah give him a sly smile as she pushed him back on the bed and slide herself over him and gave Eden a kiss before she slides Grant's human cock into her already dripping pussy." You'll get use to it Eden..." She whispered as she lay down on top of Grant and started to move her hips. She sat up a bit and watched what Sarah was doing, and the look she gave Grant. Getting up and off the bed she was rather upset that he was having sex with her. She left the room shutting the door, sighing sadly she didn't want him having sex with her. It was different when they were one, but not like that. Tears fell down her cheek as she sighed sadly she went out to the balcony she couldn't stand the sounds they made in the bedroom. "Disgusting isn't it..." A female voice said from beside her, just above the sound of the soft breeze of the night." Shifters are all alike... Grant, was it? He is like the others... He fucks anything that is female and will let his disgusting body feed off of..." The voice was coming from all around her, yet she could see no one from whom it was coming from around, as if the wind itself was speaking to her." Help us... And we will make sure that Sarah never hurts you again..." The wind whispered to Eden as she cried outside her own home. And across the breeze the sound of laughter could hear echoing away into the night sky. She listened to the voices and knew it was a hunter, slowly standing up she heard the promises. Closing her eyes she thought for a moment about it, for it was human nature to think of offers given. But she knew it was a trap, and would never sink that low to betray Grant. "Why so you can kill him to? You try to get him you need to go through me, though what he is doing hurts me. I will not let you have him. That is who you are really after, it's not Sarah but Grant. And you won't have him" She screamed out loudly. Hahahahahahah... The sound seemed to be right there next to her, yet it was something very different about it." You do not know pain little one..." The voice was right next to her yet, she spun around and saw nothing but the door leading back in. She could feel it, feel the person or thing beside her, but yet there was nothing there." Sarah... An odd one she is... But you did not answer my question..." She felt the touch on the back of her neck and spun around and saw nothing but the night sky over the city she could see from her balcony. But there was nothing else there. She felt things that terrified her, everything in her made her freeze. Her heart was racing happily, and nothing seemed right. She was hearing things, and she didn't like this. "No, I am not giving you Sarah, I may not like what she is doing. But I am the one that he loves" She went back inside shutting and locking the door and ran it "Guys something is wrong!" She yelled fear could be heard in her voice. Eden stopped as she looked at Grant and Sarah frozen on the bed, a steam of cum shooting out of Grant's cock towards her face. The cloak one Eden's nightstand told her she had been gone for almost 3 hours. This was only supported by the fact that Sarah was covered from head to toe in cum, the sheets were a dirty mess as well. But the fact that time seemed to have stopped around here was the thing that would stick out the most. She saw them frozen in time, and it hit her rather hard "What is this?" She heard the whispers and looked around. "Who the hell are you, I told you. I am not giving anyone up" She spun around unsure what the hell was going on. Her heart beating quickly as fear took hold of her, grabbing her sword she held it in her hand ready for anything. She spun around looking for whoever was behind this and out of the corner of her eye in the shadows of the corner of the living room where the sword had been kept she saw a human shape. Instinct took over and her sword was raised to block and counter any attack, but the woman stepped into the light, and it caused Eden to drop the weapon to the floor with a loud clang of metal. Standing before her was herself, naked as she was with a grin on her face."Oh, what a lovely idea!" Her twin said and walked over at the shocked Eden and picked up the sword careful and looked at it, she held the blade flat between them and then shifted it in her hand, so the blade's edge was facing them." That bitch Sarah things she enjoys big hard objects in her fucking cunt... Let's shove this up that cow's pussy and see how she enjoys it!" Eden told herself as she smiled and looked towards the bedroom. She saw herself, a reflection of herself and didn't understand what it was she was seeing. Only difference was she was a naked version of herself. But then when she picked up the sword she got really worried about it, swallowing she looked around and then back at herself. Her mind was actually spinning and didn't understand what was going on. And was almost afraid to try and hurt this double. Afraid if she even cut her that it would come back on her own body, narrowing her eyes she heard what it said." I don't like Sarah fucking my boyfriend, but I have no choice here, but she is feeding him. I will not let you take her, what the hell are you any way? Another shifter perhaps that is taking my form to get me confused?" She asked so unsure. She didn't really want the answer, but she had to deal with what ever Answer may come from it, and right now she had no clue. Her heart was pounding, and her breathing caught in her throat for the time being. "Oh but I have no choice..." Her twin looks at her, eyes all bit slits, anger and hate clear across her face." Just like we had no choice but to leave our family and friends... Just like sit back and watch the world go by trying to make a normal life for us..." Her twin looked into the bedroom again and held up the sword pointing towards Grant and Sarah." Every time we stumble we turn around and run away... Every time... When Mother asked us why we didn't kill the shifter... Or when Father had looked at you that last time before we simply picked up our bags and left without a word!" She looked at Eden with disgust and regret." We're all Grant needs.... We love him, that enough isn't it? ISN'T IT?! Why are you letting that slut bang our boyfriend?! She has no right and doesn't understand him like we do..." Her double took a few steps closer to press up against Eden and rook her free hand and caressed her cheek." We don't need Hunters... Or other people... We're all Grant needs... He can feed as much as he wants... We're all he needs..." She whispered making Eden blink, and when she opened her eyes her double was gone, now she had her breasts pressed into Eden's back, making Eden hold the sword pointed towards the bedroom. Whispering into her left ear." We don't need her... We're all Grant needs..." She listened to everything, and it was getting really annoying, and she was getting beyond pissed right then and there. Sighing softly as he looked up at herself "You know you are seriously like a broken record, go away who ever you are because you're pissing me off. And if you're trying to get me to hurt either it's not working so enough!" She yelled at him rather pissed off and sighed a little bit. It was something she didn't know what was going on but was getting beyond annoying and was effecting her just the thought of wanting to kick herself in the ass, well the twin any way" "Good... You're feeling me... Feeling those feelings you've locked away... You can't truly get rid of me... Or yourself rather..." Her double disappeared, but what she said was true. Eden didn't like that Grant was fucking someone else, even if he had to so he could feed. Her own feelings towards her family, her past. She didn't like it and didn't know how but somehow, maybe being so close to Grant had let out a part of herself just now, something dark. She looked down closing her eyes and in the distance well close distant she heard them going at it. "Oh would you two enough already!" She yelled full of anger and slammed the door shut, she was sitting down wanting them to stop. Looking at the fire place as she was getting her sword sharp by a stone she used to make her sword much sharper. Sarah didn't let Grant go right away, not till he was down shooting another load onto or rather into her mouth that overflowed onto her already coated breasts. She sighed and let him go when he was down and with a wet plop settled into the bed. Grant opened the door and carefully walked up behind Eden. Doing what he normally does when she's upset and knows he's there but doesn't want to talk about it, he simply slipped into the chair next to the couch and waited for her to speak, though he felt a bit uneasy as she seemed to be sharpening the sword that had a Hunters crest on the hilt. She didn't know if she should be happy or pissed at him, looking up at him and looking at him. Her anger just flew right off of her and sighed a little bit. Right then everything just didn't seem important. "How was she? better than me?" She said trying to hold back the anger in every word. "Just wish it wasn't on our bed, like on the floor" She finished her sword and put it up over the fire place again. Placing her hands on the wall and hung her head. "I guess I'm not enough for you..." She said a single tear falling down her cheek as she looked into the fire. Grant said nothing, but came up behind her and slowly reverted to his shifter form and slide over her body. He linked with her again and opened up his mind to her, and let her feel the emptiness that 100s of years without a good meal had put in him, that feeling of always being hungry, the feeling of not knowing if you'd make it another day. The times he would go to sleep for a month not knowing if he'd wake up. And the feeling of having gone without food for so long, the sweet taste of both her and Sarah. It was a taste as much as it was a sense, a feeling, a need. He showed her everything she might want to know, the few women he had, the taste of the two virgins, the one he killed so long ago by mistake and the one she almost killed a night ago. Words didn't, or rather couldn't explain why or who he feed from, she just was able to feel it, she felt as if she was living his memories, felt as if she was the one whose cock was sliding into the first virgin he tasted, hearing her scream her name as she fucked her, as her cock ripped into her flesh draining of her of everything, and then the over whelming regret at her as she watched the last bits of life slip from a girl who loved him just as much as she did. He showed her that he feared getting close to Eden, feared he would fully consume her as he had the first virgin. And how Sarah wasn't lying about being with shifters before, her body was much more use to giving sexual energies then her, and how she was only trying to help Grant be able to return to a normal feeding, rather than taking the last few that Eden had feed off of to the edge of death itself. As he let himself be open with Eden his body slowly turned into a skin tight black bodysuit for her again, warm and pulsing on the inside, a shinny rubber like look on the outside. And as he settled into this form nether saw Sarah watching from the bedroom before she slipped back to the cum covered sheets with a smile. She didn't know what to do any more or what to think, but he grew rather quite and so did she. Her eyes looked back up at the sword and thought of her other half. It was something to think about really, looking around as she noticed him getting up. Unsure exactly what he was doing, but then felt his body surrounding hers all of a sudden. She felt him moving against her, surrounding her making her a black suite that looked like leather. And right now she didn't know what to expect from him now. But then all of a sudden she saw visions in her head, grabbing her head as she moaned a little bit. And it wasn't a good moan either, her body started to let his mind further go into her own and slowly looking up as she looked at her hands, placing her fingers against his skin she sighed a little bit. "I'm Sorry Grant" She said and slowly stood up, trying to figure out exactly what they would do, but looking over at Sarah seeing the bed a mess that made her want to never lay on it, but smiled a bit. Grant felt the things Eden would like to hide, it was like a locked door in her mind. He knew better than to try to open it and simply let her keep what she didn't want the rest of the world to see. He had opened up his mind to her though. She knew Grant cared for her more than anything, but Sarah had offered him food, and like a hungry animal he had taken it, and feed freely on her. He didn't say anything but remained a skin tight suit for her, to give her warmth and to offer her what protection he could. It was odd for him to feed after such a long time, and he needed to rest more than normal, but being linked with Eden let him retain a form other than a bucket of goo. She realized that she had been keeping her mind closed off to him, and he was so open with her. It made her feel terrible, he wasn't the monster here she was. Sitting down she sighed a bit and looked down. "You are so open with me Grant, yet I keep my mind closed off to you the one I say I love." She closed her eyes and the door inside her mind opened up, she would let him see what he wanted to see. Everything from the military type boot camp raising. The shifter who she was supposed to kill but wouldn't. And showed her getting beaten almost to death for not killing the shifter. Everything she remembered now unlocked.

Fear Of Rejection (Closed)|rating:3.0

The Brideprice (OPEN)

LOOKING FOR A MALE to play the part of the "purchaser" and husband of Marina. I really want to make this fun and descriptive. Unbeknownst to most, in turn-of-the century America (1900) there is a "black market" where wealthy businessman obtain European women, especially Russian, to be their brides and slaves. Due to not speaking much English or having papers or links to back home, and by marital policies of that era, the woman was made to stay at the mansion of the man who decided to take her, wed her, then enslave her. This practice is much more common than many realize, especially because the majority of the men doing it were not very high-profile, and if they were, they would claim to have met the woman on a business trip, and that they fell in love at first sight, and were married as soon as they could. Marina Ivanova was about to land in the middle of this world, without realizing what was going on at all. Marina Ivanova extended one leather gloved hand and stepped off the boat. Her eyes sparkling, she surveyed the land before her. The land of Promise. The Golden City. New York. Grinning, she looked around, her eyes caught by all the buildings, statues and everything else. Her golden straight hair played against her pale creamy skin, protected from the sun for all of her life, due to her minor nobility status in Russia. Russia was nice, she thought, but New York was everything she had expected and then some. Her eyes scanned the crowd for an unfamiliar Uncle Ivan whom she had never met, her father's brother who had moved to New York before she was born. He had promised to host her while she participated in the New York social circuit and perfected her less-than-mediocre English. Pink lips pursed in anticipation, she glanced around for a large man that looked like her father. Marina had many marriage proposals in her native country, but her father felt it better for her to visit the United States so she became a more refined lady. The midnight blue velvet gown she had chosen to wear that day was suitable for a woman of her station, fitting her body well, displaying the luscious hourglass figure she had, aided slightly by corsets. Her height of 5'5" was acceptable, not too tall or too short. Her tiny wasp-like waist, large round breasts, and slim yet still formidable child-bearing hips made her very desirable. Furthermore, her full lips, pert nose and well-sculpted face, skin as it out of marble, smooth and white, attracted the attention of males wherever she went. At 20 years old, she was set to be married any day now, but her parents seemed to want her to have some fun before settling down and having children. In her town, she was seen as the village beauty, an otherworldly creature born to a family of mostly dark-haired, tanned skin and dark eyed people. Her eyes were wide set and blue, her hair blonde and long and her face unusual in its beauty, haunting and almost alien. Long golden hair pinned up, usually down to her waist, midnight blue eyes matching her gown scanning the crowd, she looked confused, glancing to see if she could see someone matching the description she received. She did not see anyone, until she heard a voice." Marina? Marina Ivanova?" the voice said, a strong masculine voice said. She turned to look and see the source of the voice. Note to those who read the thread: ITALICS= Russian unless otherwise noted. Normal text is English. James Wentworth III James Wentworth III was a man in his mid 40s, dark brown hair, blue eyes, about six feet tall. Despite his looks, all the women of society that he had been introduced to had rejected him. His family could not understand it. James Wentworth II had issued an ultimatum, either get married and have a son or be dis-inherited. He had one year to complete it the task. He frantically tried to find someone, anyone who would be of proper station and willing to marry him. Furthermore, he asked friends for help and finally one suggested that he hire a marriage broker. Furthermore, he had never heard of such a thing, but time was getting short and he was desperate. The broker suggested a woman from Russia, she would be of noble birth and attractive, for the right sum of money, of course. James agreed to sum, and the money was exchanged. He was told to expect her within a few weeks and the time and place was arranged. He waited at the dock on the day she was expected. Her name was Marina Ivanova. She was about five foot-five and had long blonde hair. I looked for people exiting the gangplank and spotted a woman wearing a midnight blue velvet gown. She looked around the crowd searching for someone. I hurried through the crowd and breathlessly asked her "Marina? Marina Ivanova?" She turned and looked at me with a confused look on her face. I extended my hand for hers and said "I am James Wentworth the third, Marina. I am going to be your husband." Mora McCain is 23 with long red hair braided down her back and moss green eyes trimmed with gold. Standing at 5ft 4in with a Pete figure, her waist was slim, and her breasts were a little more than a handful. Mora weighed around 120 to 125 lbs she has never looked at herself as some great beauty her sisters having received many offers of marriage they had t taken most of their fathers' money for their own marriages. When her father had gotten sick Mora had stayed and helped to take care of him rather than traveling from Scotland to London for the season. Mora gave up on marriage after staying with him for 2yrs watching his health slip away. Before he died her father told her that he had sold her as a Bride for an American, and that he wanted her to be happy. Mora at first had been upset both by her fathers death and by what he had done but in the end decided to go thinking that the change would be good for her, and tho the thought of being sold hurt she still loved her father for looking out for her. Saying goodbye to her fathers home she packed her few belongings and made her way to America by ship. The letter her father received from the agency gave her a name and a brief description, nothing more. Mora found herself wondering what her future husband would be like. Was he kind?, good-looking, fearsome?? She could only wait and see. Mark Davis is a 40-year-old Texas rancher with short dark brown hair and hazel eyes. He stands in at 5 foot 9 inches and weighs around 170 lbs, After spending years making his fortune selling cattle Mark decides to settle down and get married, but women are few on the Texas prairie so he answers an ad in the paper from a Scottish man to purchase his daughter, Writing the man and answering the ad Mark sends the money and heads east to meet the ship his new bride is arriving at. What would his new bride be like? "Husband?" she repeated in clearly heavily accented English." But...you must be joking... My uncle is to meet me here...." she said, trailing off and looking very confused." I don't understand....." she said, her face beautiful even in an expression of confusion with her brows knotted together. Mora stood on the doc dressed in a soft gray high wasted gown trimmed with white lace. Her hair was pinned up in a bun onto of her head allowing only a few tendrils to escape, and curl around her throat. On her head she wore a bonnet with a thin gray ribbon through it tied under her chin. Her belongings what few there were rested near her feet, one small trunk containing gowns, clothing, and a small pouch with what family heroes she brought. Mora she looked around for a man matching the description she was given, tho scanning the crowd she quickly realized that there were several sailors, merchants and other men who matched it almost perfectly, and so the only thing left for her to do was wait and if any gentlemen stopped she would simply ask if he was Mr. Mark Davis Scanning the crowd Mark sees several red haired young women, but there was one who was extremely beautiful in her gray and white dress. Approaching the young woman he tentatively asked, Mora,,,,,,, Mora McCain? Mora heard a man beside her call her name his voice was deep and pleasant to her ears. Turning to face him she looked up at him and smiled seeing a gentleman who looked to be in his late 30s early 40s, and was still rather handsome. He had hazel eyes and Brown hair. Aye I am Mora McCain, are ye Mr. Mark Davis She asked a smile on her face as she greeted him. Lady Fairy said: Mora heard a man beside her call her name his voice was deep and pleasant to her ears. Turning to face him she looked up at him and smiled seeing a gentleman who looked to be in his late 30s early 40s, and was still rather handsome. He had hazel eyes and Brown hair. Aye I am Mora McCain, are ye Mr. Mark Davis She asked a smile on her face as she greeted him. Click to expand... Tipping his hat and offering her his hand the Texan smiles at the pretty young redhead and replies "Yes Ma'am that would be me It's nice to finally meet you." Mark smiles as he returns her greeting Mora took his arm still smiling, she was nervous and didn't know what to say, she was excited and scared all at the same time not of Mark he looked strong and very able to protect them, but there was something else about him that told her instinctively that he wouldn't hurt her, but this was a whole new world to her, and she would face it as bravely as any Scot. Motioning to the small chest near her feet she asked Where would ye ha me place my things? This is all new ta me Mora would not admit aloud to any weakness it was pure stubborn Scott pride getting in the way, and she knew it, but it was her nature. The few mines it took for her small chest to be taken care of allowed her the time she needed for her sea legs to hold her while they walked. What do ye do fer a living? Mora asked wanting to get to know the man who would soon be her husband. Motioning to the small chest near her feet she asked Where would ye ha me place my things? Smiling as he lifts her small trunk to the other shoulder he says, "Here let me take that for you." Mark escorts his bride to be to the carriage he has waiting to take them to the hotel where they will stay before beginning their trip back to his home on the Texas prairie. She asks,"What do ye do fer a living?" Smiling down at her Mark answers. "I own a cattle ranch I raise and sell cattle" as he opens the door of the carriage for her to step up into. Mora smiled as he helped her into the carriage. She had heard about the cattle ranches, and had been told it was much like raising and selling sheep, accept you didn't have to sheer them. Mora had never seen a cow before as there weren't many of them in the highlands, but she was curious and willing to learn what she needed to do to help. She had also heard from some of the conversations while she waited that there was fighting between the trail drivers and the ranchers as some of them were putting up fences. Many men had been killed in the fights that broke out, and Mora could see the ranchers side of things. If the trail drivers kept driving the cattle through the ranchers land then there would be nothing left for the ranchers own cattle to eat. Mora hoped that Mark wouldn't be hurt or killed defending his land but at the same time would be proud of him for doing what was right. She had so many questions she wanted to ask but couldn't seem to choose between them, and so settled back in the cushion of the carriage as it began to move. She looked out the window taking in the new sights and sounds, looking back at Mark she asked. Will we wed before we go to yer home? Instructing the driver to take them to the Plaza hotel as he settles down beside his new bride to BR Mark smiles as she asks him, Will we wed before we go to yer home? Smiling down at her Mark replies would you like that my darling Mora, or would you like to wait till we are back in Texas? Mora smiled glad that he had asked what she thought most men didn't they simply took control and what they said was law. Mora thought about it for a moment and knew that even tho they would be consummating the marriage shortly after, and she was nervous. She also knew they would have plenty of time to get to know one another before they arrived at his home. I would like ta wed with yea for we leave.... If ye Donna mind. Smiling broadly down at her, "Mind oh no i don't mind at all Darwin you just made me the happiest man alive" Mark replies as he takes Mora into his arms and gently presses his lips to hers kissing her softly for the first time. Mora smiled at his words happy that she had pleased him, and smiled softly as he took her into his arms. Feeling his lips brush softly against hers Mora leaned into him relaxing in his arms. The carriage pulling to a stop, and the sound of the coachman jumping down from the front to open the door broke their kiss and Mora blushed. This was all new for her, and she found she truly enjoyed the way her future husband not only kissed but felt in her arms. As Mark kisses his future bride he feels her relax into his arms and smiles to himself enjoying not only the first of many kisses he planned on sharing with her but also the way his future wife's petite body feels in his arms. As the carriage pulls to a stop in front of their hotel and the coachman jumps down to open the door they break their kiss, Seeing Mora blush as he pulls back from their kiss Mark asks,"Are you ok darling?'. After she answers he steps down from the carriage turns and putting his hands under her arms he lifts her from the carriage and carefully stands her beside him. Taking her bags from the coachman and tipping him Mark offers Mora his arm and says, "Shall we go my dear?" Mora smiled as she took Marks hand and stepped down from the carriage following him into the hotel she could still feel his hands on her waist from where he had placed them to lift her down. The hotel was very nice indeed, and the people seemed kind as they were given a room and their belongings were taken up to their room. Walking into the hotel proudly escorting his beautiful wife to be Mark leads her to the check in desk and checks them in and gets them a room. Mark and Mora follow the bellman to their rooms he opens the door for them and carries in their luggage Mark sweeps Mora off of her feet and carries her across the threshold of the honeymoon suite sitting her down he tips and dismisses the bellman. "I hope you don't mind I went ahead and got us the honeymoon suite even though we haven't wed yet Darwin. Which reminds me do you have a wedding dress or do we need to go shopping to find you one?" Mora blushed as Mark carried her across the threshold and smiled as he sat her on her feet dismissing the bellman. Nay i Donna mind this a lovely room, and If ye Donna mind i ha me mothers gown I'd like ta wear. She said her hands still on his holders as she looked up at him. Hearing a knock on the door Mora moved to open it and allowed the bellhop to carry in her small trunk, and set it at the end of the bed. She smiled and thanked him as he left, and turned back to face Mark. The room truly was lovely with a large canopy bed, a large carpet covering over half of the wood floor, a wood burning stove, and a large hipbath. Should they wish a bath, and thick Hera Curtis so that they could keep out prying eyes? She didn't see the colors of these items tho because to her the most interesting and wonderful thing that was in the room was her husband to be. "I don't mind at all Darwin" Mark replies as he leans and kisses his future wife just before she steps away to answer a knock on the door, After the bellman leaves the last trunk on the bed Mark turns to Mora kneeling and taking her left hand in his looks up into her eyes and says "Let's make this official"l then he asks. "Miss Mora McCain will you do me the honor of being my wife?" Mora blushed at Marks words and smiled delightedly as he Kneeled down in front of her and proposed. Mora knew he didn't have to make such a gesture as there was already a contract, but the fact that he took her feelings into consideration touched her heart. Aye . Mr. Mark Davis. Aye I'll wed ye. She said and watched a smile cross his face as he stood she threw her arms around him and kissed him. Looking up at him when their kiss ended she realized that for the first time in a long while she truly was happy and silently thanked her The for what he had done. This man was no Scott, but she could see the honor and kindness in his soul. "Aye . Mr. Mark Davis. Aye I'll wed ye"Smiling up at Mora as he slips the small diamond engagement ring on her finger Mark tells her, "This is just your engagement ring Darwin showing the world you are mine you will receive your wedding ring when we wed." As he stands Mora throws her arms around him and kisses him wrapping her in his arms he kisses her back deeply as the kiss ends Mark just stands and holds his fiancée in his arms lost in her beautiful green eyes. Looking down at her, he asks, "Are you tired and hungry my darling after your long journey?" Mora looked up at him when their kiss ended and said. Aye I am a bit tired, and a bit o food wouldn hurt. Shall we, order in or eat out me lizard her lord sorry...?she asked a mischievous grin on her face. Lady Fairy said: Mora looked up at him when their kiss ended and said. Aye I am a bit tired, and a bit o food wouldn hurt. Shall we, order in or eat out me lizard her lord sorry...? She asked a mischievous grin on her face. Click to expand... Winking at her mischievous little grin He says, "I think we seal stay in and let you rest my love you have a big day tomorrow as we shall wed." Reluctantly stepping away from his beautiful fiancée Mark rings the bell to summon the room service waiter. Turning back to Mora he asks, "What would you like for dinner Darwin." Mora had to think about what she wanted to eat as Mark pulled away to ring the bell rope. Normal she would have asked for Kippers, but that was a meal served in Scotland and not likely to be here in the America's. She knew also while she ate and rested that there was a lot Mark would need to do such as talking to a breast and getting a license so that they could wed tomorrow, along with arrangements for their travel back to his home, and so decided to simply let him order for her. I'll let ye order for me. I am Na sure o they menu. She said still smiling. She moved over to sit on the edge of the bed removing the bonnet from her hair, and laying it down on the end of the bed. Her long red hair was still pinned up a few tendrils having escaped the mass refusing to stay in place she tucked one lock behind her ear and waited for the bellhop to return. "Would you like fish, lamb, or beef my dear?" Mark asks as Mora sits on the edge of the bed and removes her bonnet. Waiting for her reply Mark admires his beautiful fiancée and wonders to himself but unconsciously mutters his thoughts aloud "Mark ole boy how did you manage to get so lucky as to find an angel as this" Snapping back to his senses Mark asks "Darling do you want a church wedding here or for us to get married by a justice of the peace than have a church wedding when we arrive in Texas?" Lamb please she said smiling as she began to remove her boots so that she didn't get mud on the bed when she lay down after she ate. Normal she would be shy about removing even her shoes in front of anyone but as he was to be her husband she didn't see any purpose in being shy. Mora blushed though at hearing Marks words but kept silent as she noticed he had not meet to speak aloud. Hearing his question she looked at him and thought about it a moment. I have Na family ta attend the wedding in ether case as me sisters will Na travel ta the Americas, but if ye have ken then I would Na mind a justice o the peace here and a wedding when we return ta yer home. "Than lamb it is Darwin" Mark says as there is a knock at the door, Answering the door Mark seas it is the room service waiter he orders two lamb dinners then closes door as the man leaves. After dinner is ordered Mark answers,"No Darwin no kin in Texas just you and me so it's a church wedding my Darwin." Walking over to the edge of the bed where Mora is sitting and starting to remove her boots Mark kneels helping her remove her boots says, "Here let me help you with that." After her shoes are removed and Mora has slid back onto the bed to rest there is another knock at the door. Opening the door mark steps back as he rolls in a tray with their dinners tipping the waiter as he leaves mark rolls the table over to the edge of the bed so Mora doesn't have to move pulling up a chair and sitting across from her smiling he says "Dinner is served Milady." Mora blushed slightly as Mark helped her remove her boots, she didn't know why it embarrassed her now when it hadn't a few moments ago. Perhaps it was simply because he had offered to help with something so simple. She watched him as he moved across the room and slid back onto the bed relaxing while he paid the bell boy, and she found herself wondering what kinds of things he liked. Mora sat up on the bed when he brought their food to her feeling the cart over she smiled enjoying his company as he pulled a chair over and sat with her. She would have joined him at the table had he asked, but this was more enjoyable simply because it was the two of them. Who cared what society will think it was just them, and they were to be married on the morrow. The lamb was delicious as well as the roll's, green beans, and mashed potatoes that came with. She did her best to eat what she could and managed a fair portion of the meal. They were going to be married in a church... Mora imagined herself in her mothers gown and Mark standing at the altar she couldn't help the soft smile that crossed her lips. Tho she felt a little nervous it was only normal she wasn't afraid. Mark didn't sound like any of the men she had heard stories about in Scotland he seemed just as honorable and capable as any Scot she had met. Meeting Marks eyes over the tray as she picked up her glass to take a drink. She wondered what it was he was thinking about. As they eat their dinner Mark smiles at Mora and asks, "How is the lamb Darwin is it to your liking?" Looking at this beautiful brave young woman who had traveled so far away from her home to marry him Mark felt what could only be the first signs of falling in love with her. Racing his glass he proposes a toast, "To my new bride to be may she be as happy with me as I am with her" then he clinks his glass with hers and takes a drink as he smiles at Mora. Then he says, "Darwin you take the bed and I will take the sofa to sleep on tonight then we shall share our marital bed on our wedding night." Mora smiled softly and raise her glass to his toast, taking a drink before wandering his question. The lamb was delicious thank ye. She said and blushed when he mentioned their wedding night. Mora didn't know what to expect there, and hadn't given it much thought until now. Some women said it was fantastic and others said it was a nightmare to be injured, she didn't know what to believe, and tomorrow she would find out the truth for herself. Clearing her throat slightly the blush slowly disappearing being replaced by genuine concern. Glancing at the sofa she could tell it looked comfortable, but it didn't mean that it truly was. Most places tended to lean more words looks than comfort. Looking back at mark she said. Thank ye its kind o ye ta offer... Are ye sure ye'll be alright on the sofa? Smiling at her Mark replies, Yes Darwin the sofa will be fine for one night. Pushing his chair back SD he finishes his meal Mark smiles at Mora and asks, "Darwin do you have a preference to the type of church you are wed in? " Mora smiled as she too slid the cart away from the bed so she could stand. Me father was a Catholic, but I dona ha a preference myself. She said hoping that she didn't offend him by her words. Mora had found more truth and comfort in the old ways than she ever had sitting in a church with her father, but not many people accepted tho sways any longer and looked at them as a threat to what they knew now. Picking a gown out of her trunk she blushed and said. I'll only be a moment .as she quietly slipped behind the screen near the bath to change for the night. Smiling at her Mark says. "Then a priest then since I have no preference and the Catholic Church is what you know hon and I'm not sure if ids find a priest or priestess of the old druid faith of your homeland in the city." Turning his back as she retrieves a gown and slips behind the dressing screen Mark takes this time to remove his boots and jacket and the tie he had on and sits and waits for Mora to return. Getting and extra pillow and blanket from the closet he prepares the sofa to be his bed for the night. Mora was glad she was hidden behind the screen. For she was sure the surprise on her face would be extremely obvious. He knew about the old ones. Mora's surprise melted and a slow smile crossed her face. Aye she had found a wonderful man who seemed to have an open mind. It was true tho they wouldn't be able to find a druid or Celt here in the Americas to preform the wedding wrights so they would have to go with his religion or her fathers... Stepping out behind the screen she could see he had removed his coat and tie. Mora watched him quietly make up the sofa to sleep on, and remembered making up a similar bed for herself on the sofa in her fathers chambers when he was so I'll in the end... So much had changed from those days to this one, and she found herself thanking her father once again for sending her to America. If she were still in Scotland she would be alone in the keep. Tending the grounds and bills and village folk, but now she saw a outer with a husband and children. Hearing Mora come out from behind the screen Mark whistles softly and says,"You look beautiful hon". Then taking his night shirt he slips behind the screen and dresses for bed coming out he sits on the sofa and asks, "Are you ready to sleep or would you like to sit and talk?" Mora blushed hearing Mark call her beautiful felt wonderful, and she smiled watching him slip behind the screen. Walking over to the edge of the bed while she waited for him to repair she found that even tho she still felt tired she wasn't quite ready to go to sleep. Turning and sitting on the bed she watched Mark come out from behind the screen and cross the room to sit on the sofa. Hearing him ask if she were ready to sleep or if she wanted to talk. Mora knew they really should sleep as tomorrow was to be a busy day, but she really wasn't sure if she could go to bed. Sevral feelings went through Mora. Fear of the unknown. The excitement of a new beginning, and so much more. Knowing Mark was waiting for her to cancer she angered him honestly. We really should go ta sleep..., I am tired, but i Anna seem ta relax I keep thinking about ta morrow. Is there anything ye wish ta know about me fore we wed? Smiling over at Mora as she says we should sleep then asks if there is anything he wants to know about her before they wed. Smiling and winking at her Mark playfully asks in what he hopes she can tell is a joking manner, "Ye aren't an axe murderess are ye my Darwin?" Mora laughed softy when he asked his question and smiled her eyes full of laughter as she angered. Nay I am Na a murderess, but truly is their nothing ye wish ta ask? She said still sitting on the edge of the bed watching his expression as he thought about what he wanted to say, she could see that he was getting tired and felt a little guilty at keeping him awake, but she had asked her questions, and it was only fair he gets to ask his. Okay smiling at her, he says, "Tell me about your life in the old country and your likes and dislikes oh and how do ye feel about having a family with me" Mark sits and waits patiently for her to answer. Mora thought about what he asked and smiled... There SNA much ta tell, me life was a simple one, but i ha three sisters...all older. I cared fer me The after me sisters married and were gone. I Hanna heard from them since. The was me responsibility until he died twas Na easy, they did Na come ta the funeral and i wouldn aha wanted them to, but i managed. She said taking a deep breath before continuing. Remembering how hard it was making sure he took his meds and the bills as well as taking care of the grounds and keep. Her sisters returning her letters unopened when she sent to them for help.and how angry she had been at them when they dared return to the keep after their The's death demanding what was rightfully theirs. Da told me about yea fore he died ... and he left the keep in my name as a dowry... twas the first time me sisters got a taste o their own medicen as it were... They bleed The dry o everything he owned when they wed, but they Diana get the land. Looking up she could see that Mark was watching her closely, and Mora refused to cry in front of him and cleared her throat before continuing. A small smile playing across her face. When The first told me what he had done I had been hurt. Because i Diana understand what it was he had tried ta do... but now. I know he wanted me ta have a fresh start and a chance at a new life... Children o me own.and I truly am looking forward ta being with ye if ye truly want me.she said. Movie from the sofa to the bed Mark takes Mora into his arms holding her to him as he whispers. "Oh my darling Mora yes I still want you and I want you to be the mother of my children. Darling you will never want for love or support ever again I promise all of your needs and wants and desires of your heart shall be met as long as I have the strength and breath in my body to give them to you, I'm sorry if brought up painful memories." He presses his lips to her hair as he holds her in his arms. Mora had held everything inside of her being the stubborn Scot that she was, and she also knew that if he had stayed on the sofa she wouldn't now be crying on his shoulder but still holding it all inside... Sitting up she looked up into his eyes. Dona apologize... ye needed ta know about me life, and I wanted ta tell ye... Aye the memories are old ones but i Hanna allowed myself ta think much about them till now... If I had, they would Na ha hurt so much.she said smiling through her tears and kissing him gently on the lips... She was a little embarrassed at having cried in front of him. No self-respecting Scot ever cried in front of this they didn't yet know, but then she thought that didn't apply this time because he was to be her husband. Thank ye fer listening, and still wanting ta be with me. I Diana mean ta cry . I Donna always do so... she said showing both her gratitude and her Scott pride. Mora lay her head on his chest and closed her eyes listing to his heart beat while they sat on the end of the bed she feels asleep in his arms. Holding her tight to him and softly stroking her hair as he feels the sobs wrack her body he whispers,"It's okay sweetheart let it out let go of the hurt and pain no one will ever hurt you again I promise." Soon she sits and wipes her eyes and tells him, "Dona apologize... ye needed ta know about me life, and I wanted ta tell ye... Aye the memories are old ones but i Hanna allowed myself ta think much about them till now... If I had, they would Na ha hurt so much" Mark softly returns her kiss as she continues,'Thank ye fer listening, and still wanting ta be with me. I Diana mean ta cry . I Donna always do so" Wrapping her tightly in his arms Mark smiles,"You cry any time you need to and of course I still want to be with you my little lass and I promise I will listen to you any time Darwin." Soon Mora lays her head on his chest, and he feels her breathing go shallow and even looking down he realizes she has dozed in his arms. Sliding back against the head of the bed Mark sits there with her in his arms holding her soon he feels himself dozing off falling asleep with his beautiful fiancée in his arms. Mora woke the next morning feeling more relaxed and content than she had in a long time. Slowly opening her eyes she realized she was being held. Slowly sitting up so as not to disturb Mark, it took her a moment to remember last night's events but when she did, she smiled and watched him sleep for a few moments before slipping from the bed. Opening her trunk she found a robe and pulled it on, before pulling the bell rope to call room service. Moving to the door she opened it slightly so she could watch for the servant and not wake Mark by the knocking at the door. Yes mam how may I help you? Mora smiled at the maid, and said quietly. I would like fer someone ta bring hot water fer me husbands bath please, and a plate o fried ham, Bacon, and scrambled eggs...she said. Mora wasn't sure how Mark liked his eggs and so figured that scrambled was her best bet until she learned what he liked. Right away mam.the maid said and moved away to do what was asked. Mora closed the door and moved back into the room. She hadn't dressed yet but instead set about ranging things so that Mark could bathe when he awoke, she intended to bathe in his water herself while he ate. Hearing a small knock at the door Mora pulled the Curtis on the bed so that the maids and servants would not see Mark still abed, and opened the door to allow them in with the hot water. The food will be brought shortly mam.one of the maids said after pouring one of the buckets of hot water into the bath. Thank ye. She said and showed them out. Mark stretches as he awakes the next morning. Waking slowly he realizes he is in the bed with the curtains drawn. Hearing someone moving around in the room Mark calls out,"Mora is that you are you decent is it okay for me to come out?" Mark sits quietly and smiles as he remembers the events of the night before as he awaits her answer. Mora smiled hearing Mark ask if it was alright for him to get out of the bed. Aye ye may come out I am decent...she said checking the robe to make sure it still covered her, tho why it mattered she didn't know. He had seen her in her night gown already. Mora blushed at the thought remembering last night, and she couldn't say she regretted any of it. I took the liberty of ordering ye a bath, and breakfast should be only a few more moments. I hope ye Donna mind. She said smiling as he lifted the bed Curtin and moved away from the bed. "Mark replies, "Thanks sweetie I could use a bath" as he walks over and wraps Mora in his arms and softly kisses her whispering, "Good morning hon did you sleep well?" Mora smiled up at him as he held her and softly kissed her lips. Aye I slept well thank ye.she said hearing the knock at the door she said. You go ahead with yer bath I'll get yer breakfast. Slowly stepping out of his arms she made her way to the door as he stepped behind the screen to bathe. Going to his suitcase Mark grabs clean pants, shirt and underwear before stepping behind the screen. Behind the screen Mark strips off the night shirt he had on and steps into the tub of hot water and quickly bathes. Stepping out of the tub he dries himself and slips on his underwear and pants pulling his shirt on he steps out from behind the screen buttoning it. He watches his beautiful bride to be setting up his breakfast and asks, "Are ye trying to spoil me lass?" Hearing Marks question as she set the table for him, she turned to face him a smile on her lips and mischief in her eyes. Aye is it working?she asked. Stepping over to his beautiful fiancée and kissing her as he sits,"Aye lassie it is" Looking down at his plate Mark smiles,"Scrambled eggs how did you know they are my favorites Are you going to join me Darwin?" Mora blushed as his lips briefly touched her own before he sat down at the table to eat, and shook her head glad that she had made a god choice about the eggs. I am Na hungry just yet. I thought perhaps I would use yer water ta bath while ye ate if ye Donna mind. She said smiling at him. Smiling at Mora Mark replies, "Go right ahead Darwin I don't mind at all. Are you as excited about today as I am?" Mark asks as he eats his breakfast. Hoping that Mora doesn't notice the slight shake of his hand caused by nerves and excitement at what this day will hold for them. Mora smiled stepping behind the screen where the bath awaited. Slowly untiring the robe and laying it aside. Aye I am vary excited.and nervous but she didn't want to admit that she was a little actions. Removing her night gown, and undergarments she laid them aside with her robe and stepped into the water, glad to find it was still warm. She mound softly as she slid down closing her eyes as she rested her head against the edge of the tub, before sinking down and dunking her head beneath the water to wet her hair. Sitting up reluctantly she picked up the wash cloth and soap and began washing her body, and hair. A wicked though crossing her mind as she imagined Mark coming around the screen and seeing her in the bath. What would he think? What would he do? Would he offer to help her in her bath?.. Blushing as she realized where her thoughts were headed she set the soap and cloth aside so that she could rinse the soap from her hair and body. Finishing his breakfast Mark quietly slips his shirt off and steps around the screen and asks, "Need your back washed hon?" sitting up in the water Mora brought her hand up to cover what the water didn't hide wondering how long mark had been watching her, and blushed remembering her thoughts from only a few moments ago. Aye if ye Donna mind.she said picking up the soap and the cloth from the edge of the tub and holding them out for him. Mora noticed he had removed his shirt, and she could see the strength of his arms and holders she allowed her gaze to wander over his body taking in every detail as he moved forward accepting the soap her heart beating faster as their eyes and hands met. Smiling as he kneels beside the tub hoping Mora doesn't see the bulge in the front of his pants Mark takes the washcloth and soap lathers the cloth,"No Darwin I don't mind." As Mark extends his arm reaching across the tub in front of Mora allowing her to lean forward and support herself against him, he blushes slightly as he feels her breasts brush his arm. Taking the soapy rag he gently begins to run the soapy cloth over the back of her shoulders then down her back soaping it up. Laying the rag aside he gently takes water in his hand and lets it run down her back rinsing the suds from her soft skin. Continuing to hold her as he finishes he asks,"Do you need anything else?" Aye. Mara replied slowly leaning back against the tub, and tipping her head just enough to kissing his lips. Slowly releasing him from the kiss she looked deep into his eyes and blushed. His hand had felt good against her back as he washed and rinsed it and her nipples had grown harder with each brush of his arm against her breasts... it had taken everything in her not to moan allowed but when he had asked if she needed anything else all she could think of was him... As she leans back and kisses him Mark returns Mora's kiss, as she breaks away from the kiss their eyes lock. Staring deep into her eyes he asks her, "And what is it you need my love?" Mora blued and leaned back against the tub biting the bottom of her lip she smiled and even tho she wanted to say you instead said I need a towel please. They would be together soon enough tonight after they were wed, and she could wait until then. Standing she accepted the towel he offer and asked him to move back around the screen so she could dress. Giving her one more kiss Mark hands Mora the towel she requests then steps back around the screen allowing her privacy to dress. While he waits he finishes dressing himself thinking of anything but his sexy fiancée and her beautiful body to allow his hardness to shrink. Mora dressed in a soft high-waisted pink Mullen gown, trimmed in white lace. Walking out from behind the screen she picked up a brush and walked over to a mirror hanging on the wall. Seeing in the mirror that Mark had finished dressing as well she smiled as she pulled her hair up into a bun and pinned it up leaving only a few whips of red tendrils handing down. Laying the brush aside she turned to face him still smiling ye look handsome... I Anna wait until we are wed. Is there Ana thin I can do ta help ye get things ready for the wedding? Mark smiles as his beautiful wife comes out from behind the screen and fixes her hair and tells him he looks handsome and asks what she can do to help him prepare for their upcoming wedding. Smiling back at Money Mark tells her, "Thank you sweetheart you look very beautiful well. We need to go down and get our marriage license, and we need to get you a bouquet of flowers to carry every bride needs flowers on her wedding day then we need to find a church and minister to marry us. I want this day to be perfect for you Darwin so we will do everything together. Are ye ready to go and do you want to take the trunk with your wedding gown in it with us or come back and get it?" Mark asks. We can take it if ye wish and I can change at the church. Mora said smiling as she repacked her things and made sure that everything was ready to go, before taking his arm. Will ye common the bellhop fore we leave the room or once were in the lobby? Smiling at Mora as she asks if he will summon the bellhop now or down in the lobby. Mark answers "Sweetheart we don't need a bellhop all you need is your wedding dress and any special undergarments you will need with it as we will be returning here to this room to spend the night. Unless you want to spend your wedding night on a train bound for Texas?' While he waits for her to answer mark goes to the closet and retrieves his black suit that he planned on getting married in. Mora blushed Nay i wouldn wish ta spend it on the train.and turning she gathered her wedding dress, slippers, and few items she would need placing them neatly into a small bag to carry with her to the church. I am ready she said taking Marks arm once again and walking with him out the door into the hallway of the hotel. Taking the small bag Mora packed and with it and his suit in one hand and his sexy Fiancée on his other arm Mark escorts her down to the lobby and out of the hotel. Waving down a taxi Mark opens the door and helps Mora enter then climbs in with her and instructs the driver to drive them to city hall. Arriving at city hallmark asks the driver of the cab to wait that they shall return then turning he helps Mora down and offering her his arm asks,"Shall we go get our marriage license Darwin?' Then he leads her inside to find the clerks' office. Aye. Mora replied to Marks question smiling as he helped her from the carriage, and asked the cable to wait for them to return as they headed into the courthouse to get their license. Soon Mark would be her husband, and she couldn't wait to start their lives together. Finding the clerks office and waiting in line soon Mark and Mora are filling out the forms. Mark fills out the part of the form that is relevant to him and signs it then slides it over to Mora to fill out and sign After sighing the documents they were told they would have to wait for the license to be written out, and to come back in a few hours. Mora looked at Mark. Where would ye like ta go. This is a new place ta me so, yell have ta show me where ta go. When they find out they have to wait a couple of hours for the documents to be processed and the license to be written out Mora asks Mark where would he like to go and what would he like to do next. Smiling at her as he offers her his arm Mark replies, "We can go find a flower shop and get your wedding bouquet. Then we can find a church while we wait for the license and get some lunch you haven't eaten yet today and I don't want you fainting on your wedding day." Mark smiles as he looks at Mora waiting to see if his plans meet with her approval Mora grinned and nodded taking his arm and walking out of the building with him to find a flower shop, and a place to eat some lunch. For her bouquet she had chosen white, and pink roses, with babies breath and an olive green ribbon holding them together. What do ye think?she asked showing a sample of what it would look like to Mark. Mark looks at the bouquet sample and smiles. "It's as beautiful as you are darling" he replies I think ye would say anything I picked would be beautiful even if tower Na so. She said with a smile. She looked through the samples and found a few other combinations that she liked as well and final settled on the last one she came across, made from Lilly and wild hither that grew out on the moors. Smiling at the Clark she showed the woman what it was that she wanted, and asked if it could be done by this evening. The Clark asked for an unreasonable sum of money to have it done by the time that they wanted it for, and Mora bartered with her until they were both stratified with the price and the time of the labor. Turning to Mark she noticed the look on his face and wondered what he was thinking. Mark are ye alright?she asked taking his arm as he leads them out of the flower shop to find a restaurant so they could eat lunch. Smiling at Mora as they leave the flower shop Mark replies, "If ye call being in love not alright than I'm very not alright because I'm in love with you Darwin." Continuing to smile Mark asks, "What would ye like for lunch me lassie?" hum mm i Anna decide. I'll let ye choose. She said smiling just happy to be with him. She didn't know how she had gotten so lucky. Most mail order brides she knew had fared much much worse. Silently she thanked her pa. As they entered the restaurant and sat down to look at the menu. Entering the small restaurant near the river they are soon seated at a table near the windows overlooking the river. Looking at Mora over the top of the menu Mark smiles as he wonders to himself "How did I get so lucky what were the guys in Scotland thinking about letting this lass get away? She is worth Eva dime I spent I just hope I make her as happy as she makes me,"The waiter returns and asks if they are ready and Mark orders them a light lunch. After the waiter leaves Mark reaches across the table taking Mora by the hand and asks, "What is my beautiful wife to be thinking about?' I was just wondering how I had gotten so lucky as ta find a man like ye, and thanked me pa fer doing what he did. She angered him honestly and smiled enjoying the feel of his hand in hers. She let go of it only when the waiter returned with their lunches, so that they could eat. Mark smiles and replies, "I'm the lucky one sweetheart to have found such and angel still available." Lifting her hand to his lips he kisses it softly only releasing it when the waiter brings them their lunch. As they eat Mark asks, "Okay sweetheart what all do we have left to do before our wedding we have started the license process, and we need to pick that up, we need to pick up your bouquet, we need to find a church and a minister, have I forgotten anything?"

The Brideprice (OPEN)|rating:3.0

The Cursed Collar [SK_CS]

So close to victory he could taste it. It was right there before him. The man who had foolishly challenged him to a game of Shogi was the only one in the way of his dreams. How dare he try to deceive the most powerful demon in the world (his words)? Couldn't he see how powerful he was? The muscles on his frame, the long silver mane of hair? The bet was simple; if the demon won, he'd be granted the secret location of the artifact. If he lost? He'd have to wear the object contained in the box between them. He was no fool who would fall for such a simple trick. The object he sought would only be his if he threw the game. He suspected this human to be so covetous that he planned to hide it right under the nose of the demon. He wrinkled his nose, smelling the stink of fear in the air. Was it coming from the man before him, or merely the village that had been moments from ruin? The young dog demon shifted, the metal in his clothing and weaponry making quite the ruckus as the game was just about over. The demon had thrown the game. Makoto had just moved his last piece, ensuring the human had no option but to defeat him on the next turn. Instead of looking distraught, Dakota looked triumphant. No sooner had the male's fingers made the final play did he stand up and point with laughter." You fool! I've seen through your gambit. You would never have told me where the artifact was even if I won your rigged game. But I know the artifact is in that box, anyway-- I know you were trying to lose this entire time to throw me off the scent! You thought you were one step ahead of me, but your feeble human mind is no match for the sharp wits of a demon of my class." He snapped his fingers and placed a hand upon his hip during his speech. Once he finished, and before the male could answer, he seized the box. The rules had been clear, and he intended to follow them through. Open the box. Put it on. Simple instructions. He tore the top off of the small box. It sent wood flying, the hinge splintering and shattering from his strength. His eyes glittered as he eyed the sanctified jewelry. It was bound in black leather, inset with jade stones that ran the length in perfect spacing. The feature piece at the front was a massive, oversized emerald-- the sort of thing that might just barely dig into the flesh of the wearer depending on neck position. He was still cackling as his hands grabbed it, picked it up to watch it twinkle in the light. He snapped it on. It didn't feel right. He was woozy."... What... have you done... to me..." He collapsed, hitting the ground with a thud. He was unconscious before his body hit the ground. Audible gasps tore through the onlookers as steam begin to rise from the fallen demon's body. The Silver Death had been defeated...? Hyatt Nauru (felt confident in his plan. A wandering ‘problem solver’ in a troubled land, he had some skill with magic and blade – though by no means could he take down a powerful Okay in a direct fight… As seemed to be the case with this demon here. It was a simple gambit – he relied on both the demon’s pride and perhaps more blunt nature to have the demon throw the game, and while he was slightly surprised that the demon had taken the bet, it seemed that he had done so with the intention of losing. A handsome man with black hair and piercing blue eyes, Nauru wore clothing of brilliant blue and ivory white, the Yamagata pattern of the blue matching his eyes as he stared the demon down. With a simple blade at his belt, he looked more unassuming – a noble who could have easily been a wandering traveler rather than any daring swordsman or impeccable Robin. Still, he was a handsome youth, and could certainly have settled down with a lovely wife had he the inclination to do so.“It seems you have bested my gambit, demon.” The word ‘Demon’ was not spoken of in anger or fear, but rather respect. Taking the shogi pieces and putting them away as the demon continued to speak, the box was seized with Nauru only getting a feeble chance to make any protest, his arm reaching out for the box even though he failed to grab it. Sighing out to make the plan seem even more awry, Nauru shook his head, sighing. Rather than say anything else, he waited with bated breath, watching as the demon clasped the collar around his neck. By now – it was too late for the demon to do anything. “You should be warned…” Nauru spoke, his tone taking on a more wistful tone. “I was honest, that collar is an item of incredible power! Yet…” As the demon stumbled and collapsed onto the ground, the changes were drastic, steam forming from the demon’s body as it began to shift and change. “Power often comes at a cost…” Not that The Silver Death could hear the last few words. The change was quick, but drastic – no longer was the demon an impressive brute of muscle and mass. No longer did he hold the look of a killing machine. Rather, it was something more… Elegant, pleasant to look at. And woefully ill-fitting in the demons armor with wide hips and ample chest.“Is he – is he dead?” One of the villagers asked, his fear palpable as he looked to the demon.“No, he’s not.” Nauru spoke, rising. “Help me get the demon out of the armor, and We’ll take it to the village apothecary. It will take some hours for the demon to regain consciousness… But I assure you, ‘he’ is no longer a threat. And for modesty’s sake… Cover them with a robe.” Nauru spoke as he rose, putting the Shogi box away properly. It would take some time, the setting sun wheeled around towards a starry sky, and by that time, the demon would be awake once again, its body aching just about everywhere. The Demon awoke in the night under the moonlight. It was a groggy wake-up; the kind that left one swiping at their eyes to clear away the 'sand'. The sort of wake-up that lent itself to one passing out time and time again, unable to move and yet too awake to truly slip back to sleep. The demon slowly shifted onto hands and knees, eyes leveled at the ground. His armor was gone. He was covered in something thing, which was strange. But he was alive. He knew there was still a collar around his neck. He could feel its wait. Could feel the magic in it coursing through himself. His entire body was warm. Dakota got to his feet, hand sweeping through his hair. He was woozy, wobbly. He nearly fell back down. Something was strange, not quite right. His eyes caught the dance of light against a mirror, and he shuffled over, eyes bleary and hard to keep open. What he saw made his heart jump out of his chest. He was no longer a. She was there, staring back at him. (NSFW) (Her skin was smooth. She was small, still toned, but more than a foot shorter. Her hair was similar but longer, more silky. Her ears looked much bigger for her body than they had before, giving her cute proportions. She opened the robe and inspected her body. Fear welled up inside of her being as she noted that she'd gone from a mountain of muscle with a cock of demonic proportions to a busty woman with wide, child-bearing hips. Her breasts were perky and large, too much for one of her own small hands to hold without significant overflow. She turned to the side to check her profile, and found an ample back side and thick thighs below her waist instead of a thick cock. Even her feet had shrunk to accommodate the smaller, more feminine appearance she now had. That gem was shining. Dakota couldn't help herself. No steam was rising from her body, but a scream welled up. It shattered the silence of night, cut through the air with its terror, its indignation, its fury." What have you done?!?!" She collapsed in on herself and fell down to the ground on her knees, unable to stand a moment longer from the sheer ache of her muscles. She felt so weak. Furthermore, she doubted she could defend herself from a fly right now, let alone a pathetic human. As the evening sky was soon painted midnight blue with twinkling stars in the sky, most villagers were antsy about being anywhere near the Apothecary’s home, but for the traveling man it seemed he was quite comfortable being close to the sleeping demon. Eating an offered meal by one of the grateful villagers, Nauru was half asleep by the time that Dakota started to wake up. Eschewing the outer parts of his outfit for a more simple robe, Nauru had his eyes closed as he rested on a cot, having waited for the demon to rouse only to find that sleep may well get to him first. Of course, the sudden and feminine cry of anger was what woke Nauru… Alongside many of the villagers. While some panicked, for Nauru it was simply a matter of getting up and stretching as he made his way for the room that Dakota was in. Opening the door nonchalantly, Nauru looked over Dakota, it seemed the transformation had fully taken place, and by now the was most certainly a. “Calm down.” The black haired man spoke softly, fighting back a yawn. “You’ll just tire yourself out yelling. I haven’t done anything.” And that was the truth. He had done nothing to the demon other than play a game with him. “But I do understand being. Confused. If you want to know what happened, why don’t we sit down, and I can start from the beginning?” Despite the undoubtedly intense anger the demon had, Nauru seemed completely calm, in control even. Did he have an ace up his sleeve, or was he merely a suicidal man being overly confident in the face of inevitable death? By this point a few villagers had surrounded the apothecary’s home with farm implements being used as weapons, a few of the surlier looking men using spears. Of course, none would dare enter or even approach the demon, not knowing if he still had any strength or not. With just Nauru and Dakota in the building, it was almost peaceful. Dakota was still in shock when the door slid open, still taking in her new features. Or his? His mind was scrambled. Was she a boy or a girl? She was still... Her. Still she held every memory. She could remember pissing in the woods before wandering into this village, could remember the overwhelming physical mass she had. Her strength was surely still there, just hidden under a more toned, more feminine facade. Or perhaps she was faster now than she had been before? More graceful? She turned her head to face the voice that dared to speak at her with such familiarity. Calm down? She would not! The demon stumbled toward him. She fell to the ground, and scrambled gracelessly back to her feet. The robe she wore was still open, revealing her body to him if he dared to take his eyes away from her own. She was like a cornered animal. She reached home, grabbed at his robe and pulled him down. He towered over her now! The insult." You will return my body this instant, or I will rip out your pathetic skull and beat you to death with it. Do you hear me, Human?" She couldn't even stand steady. She was swaying like a willow in the wind, and looked like she might have already fallen again if she didn't have a grip on him. If Nauru held any fear from Dakota’s words, he hid said worries under a veil of confidence still. Even when Dakota lunged for him and dragged him down to the ground, the most that he said was a small ‘Of!’ as he hit the floor, groaning a little but even that seemed a minor annoyance rather than genuine fear. “I don’t blame you for being angry at all… But you should understandIhave done nothing to you.” Nauru spoke, his eyes looking back into Dakota’s own. With the woman on top of him, his chest rose and fell a little more heatedly, and while there was the temptation to look properly at what the collar had done to her, he remained respectful enough to not let his gaze wander.“What’s happened… Wasyourown doing, demon.” Nauru spoke, trying to sit upright as an arm was placed against the ground to brace himself. “Calm down and I can explain. But you have no one but yourself to blame for your predicament.” Even if Dakota persisted in their anger, he had a further ace up his sleeve, so perhaps he may as well use it. “Sit, girl.” The words were almost a request in their gentleness, but even with that gentle tone of his, the words carried power to them. This was no mere request or favor asked, but a command – one that could not go unanswered. Dakotas eyes were afire with fury. A murderous intent radiated from her being. She was so, so dangerous. His confidence was so absolute that she was certain the human had more tricks available to him. Perhaps instead he could tell she had not recovered from the shift, and thought he might be stronger than a demon of such class as herself. Dakota couldn't deal with the sound of her own voice. She spoke again, this time throwing it an octave lower. It was funny, really." My own DOING? You expect me to believe that, you cur? That it is my fault for seeing through your deception? What ill--"His command cut her off. She fought against it, but she couldn't. She exerted herself physically, but her head flooded with the command. The words. The sound of his voice. She couldn't think. She couldn't resist. The necklace glowed. If it had been a more urgent command it might have thrown her to the ground itself. Instead, she knelt before him. She brought her hands back to herself in this position. Her heels pressed against her back side as she looked up at him fiercely. It wasn't until she settled down in front of him, hands fully returned to herself and body still that she could think again. God, she felt so relieved. So happy. It was like a crushing weight was off her shoulders. Until she tried to move again, anyway." You... You tricked me. How.?" He could tell Dakota was angered beyond belief. Still, Nauru seemed virtually unflappable in comparison, his gaze steely and despite the softer tone of his words even they held an ironclad nature to them. This was not the first time he had dealt with a demon – though probably the first time he’d dealt with one as powerful as Dakota was. Even he realized he was still somewhat outmatched here, but it was better to make it seem as if he held all the cards, as any single moment of weakness or fear could still result in things going badly for him. And he would be remiss if he didn’t think seeing Dakota submit so readily, her hands leaving Nauru’s robes as she sat in a rather submissive position wasn’t at least a little titillating. By now Nauru gave himself the opportunity to look over the somewhat exposed Dakota, and she was hardly lacking by any measure. A small smile curled upon his features, but he also realized he had answers to give, and these were not going to be answers Dakota wished to hear.“I did not trick you. You tricked yourself. I could tell you let yourself lose in the Shogi game. If you had one, I would have been honored to tell you the truth about this collar, about what it would do to you. But with you losing the game? I didn’t have to tell you anything. Before I could even possibly give you a warning, you greedily donned the collar.” Moving to sit himself, Nauru’s hands smoothed out the robes he wore as he moved to sit seize style, elegantly resting his legs beneath him as a hand came to rest against his thigh. “Now then. I should be honest though. With the collar being donned… There is no way to take it off.” Dakota tried to process what had happened to her brain when he spoke with such authority. She had never been the type to submit to anyone's commands, not even the commands of her father. But she felt her brain melting away when she tried to resist those two little words. Dakota responded to them without hesitation, even though they were addressed to a girl, and she was clearly a boy at heart. And then the sensation of submitting, of obeying... Her tail wrapped around herself as she felt his gaze. Still she was spellbound, forced to sit before him like she was a dog, and not a demon. She couldn't even think about hurting him without her thoughts turning to fuzz. She hated what he said. Furthermore, she was fuming. Her eyes were still furious. She huffed, exhaling harshly at his insinuation that she had no one but herself to blame. But it wasn't until the end, until his last words, that she felt a chill down her spine for the first time in a hundred years." You lie." She accused venomously. "Explain. Why does the collar exist? Why did it turn me into this...? Abomination? Why... Why did I obey you?" Why did it feel so good? Dakota responded to his ‘sit’ without a single grievance or attempt to rebel. It seemed the stories about the collar were true after all. Still, once Dakota had regained control of his will, Nauru’s eyes returned to the demon’s own. “I’m not one to lie. I’ve only told the truth so far. The magic of the collar does strengthen and enhance one’s power. You’re stronger than you were before, believe it or not!” As his tone got a little more excited, he soon gave a slight cough, shaking his head. “However the strength comes with a twofold cost. The first price is the obvious one. You are no longer a man. The second… Is that whoever gave you the collar, have control over you now. Given that you lost the shogi match, and I effectively gave you the collar, that means you’re under my command now. I do not intend to abuse this power, but at the same time it means what I say, goes.” There was a brief pause, and his tone took a more serious tone. “My first true order is that you shall not harm anyone within this village. They hired me for protection, and I intend to see that through. My name is Hyatt Nauru, wandering Emoji. But please, just call me Nauru. I would ask for your name as well, Demon.” Rising, Nauru gave a small bow as part of his introduction. Dakota scowled deeply. What a cursed device. He refused to believe there was no way to remove the device. Surely it would run out of fuel. Or else had some sort of condition to release. If nothing else, he would be free of the influence of this pathetic human when he died of age and the Demon was left alive an alone. But... What sort of collar would grant power by turning him into a woman?" Masculinity is strength. There is simply no way by turning into a woman I have somehow gained power. It has been stolen from me-- I can barely walk. The artifact I sought could not have been this! It was supposed to reveal the 'True nature of ones soul', to 'Provide unimaginable force of will' to the wielder! This is the exact opposite!" Dakota protested. The demon could not cry, but she did whine. The command she is helpless to resist, and already sorrowful that her rampage following this conversation and the release from the position he had bound her in had already been stopped. She hadn't even got to spill a single drop of blood. Her stomach rumbled ferociously as the human introduced himself. She kept staring up at him, unblinking, challenging him wordlessly"I am Dakota, the Silver Death. You may think you have defeated me, but I will never obey you. You are nothing but a thorn in my side. I will have my body back one day, and I will be rid of the collar. Do not think that you can give me orders or make demands of me, foolish for--" her stomach rumbles again." I need to eat." “The reason you feel weak is the magic has only just changed you. Give it a day or two and you’ll feel stronger than ever.” Though the way Dakota described masculinity as strength, perhaps he would still feel weak. But in the end that was on the demon and not what had happened to him. “You are quite the testy one though. Maybe you don’t have the patience for that.” As he spoke, his head shook softly even as the demon whined out rather cutely, something that caused Nauru to offer a smile back to Dakota.“Dakota then. It is a pleasure to meet and for you to work alongside me. If you are hungry…” He trailed off, turning to the door as he opened it, leading into the main room of the Apothecary and briefly turning his head. “Follow me. I believe I can cook a halfway decent meal for you. It’s the least I can do for you having been tricked, no?” As he laughed softly, he left the invitation open. He was more than just a passable cook, and perhaps a full stomach might ease some of Dakota’s burdens. The words that Dakota spoke of, ‘The true nature of one’s soul’ attached to the collar did make Nauru curious, but for now that was a subject best left for another time. Perhaps the meaning was obvious, especially with how Dakota sought to deny it, but otherwise he had no intentions of challenging the man’s perception so readily. The moment he arrived in the kitchen however, he made sure that the stove was stoked, he could make a simple stew or cooked rabbit to help sate Dakota’s appetite. "I will not work alongside you, human. And I crave flesh, blood-- the rush of the consumption of something freshly caught, still trying to escape your clutches...!" She said, rather gruesomely. It was true that demons could consume the life force of humans, and likely what Dakota was referring to. Her ears went back and down as the offer for food weighed brain on her."...but whatever meager meal you can cook for your new overlord will have to do. I've always wanted a human pet-- why not one that can cook?" She mused out as she finally rose to her feet to follow him. She tightened up her robe and strayed away from the fire that he stoked as she made herself comfortable on a lonely pillow, legs tucked tightly underneath. Furthermore, she inspected her frame when she thought he wasn't looking, clearly still uncertain of it all. She rubbed at one of her feet, and then briefly as her chest." Everything feels swollen. Tell me, pitiful human, 'Nauru', where shall I be leading you in my quest to get this collar removed?" They clearly had a lot of ground to cover. This was perhaps the nicest way the new girl could manage to ask 'Where are you taking me next?' without actually admitting it. “You are free to believe what you wish to believe for now.” Nauru spoke back, there wasn’t any anger in his voice, merely a simple understanding. If push came to shove, he held the cards but saw no reason to immediately force Dakota to obey him. It seemed for now Dakota was content to relax on the pillow and as Nauru moved into the kitchen, a seared rabbit sounded good for the moment. “What quest? As I said, this is a permanent change. You can undo this as much as you can undo the passing of day into night or spring into summer.” That was to say, he can’t. Nauru spoke of this with absolute certainty, his tone ironclad.“But once we are ready to leave in a day or so, I admit I am not sure. Part of me was thinking towards the coast. I’ve heard tales of Okay there that need dealing with. That, and I admit I’ve always wanted to see the ocean. What say you, I think that would be a good direction to head towards. Away from the villages you’ve likely menaced. Would give you a fresh start as well!” As he seasoned the hare and soon started to cook it, the sound of meat sizzling filled the building, and Nauru fought back a light yawn given he was still somewhat shaking off his own sleepiness. She inspected him as he cooked, as he spoke. Maybe she was spying for weakness. Something she could exploit; some hidden part of the picture she was struggling to discern beyond his calm demeanor. Maybeshe was checking him out in a light she'd never seen before. For a human, he wasn't ugly. No, he was rather handsome. He had a calm, confident demeanor that called out to her. She found her mind wandering as she waited for the rabbit. She bit her lip, and wagged her tail idly." The coast? Only because I was headed that way anyway. I fully intended to slay the demons in that region and claim their territory for myself. Good idea, pet." She said, even as her hands itched at the collar. Her stomach rumbled, and she tried to pull it off of herself. He could say it a dozen times, but she would not believe him. She was not ready to face the idea of being a woman forever. "What, exactlydo you intend to do about my clothing?" As he continued to cook, he didn’t seem to notice Matomo investigating him. But as she did her observations were correct. He was calm, confident, and well-built for a man. Clearly no master warrior but he was kept toned and athletic, a man who clearly traveled while also keeping care of himself. Humming out gently as he turned the rabbit over, he has sung a gentle tune to himself that was rather melodic until she asked him about the topic of clothing.“Oh, that’s a good question, actually. Your old armor and clothing won’t fit you anymore, I’m certain of it. Likewise, I doubt the people here would be very keen on reforging it to your… Shape.” He spoke, thinking carefully for a moment. “I can pay the seamstress here a nice sum, and I’m sure we can arrange for you to get fitted and something proper for you to wear however, it will have to do until we can expand your wardrobe, however.” It wouldn’t take him long to have the hare fully cooked and by the time it was done, he served it to Dakota on a plate. It was nicely seared and smelled delicious, evidently Nauru was a many of many talents, from swindling demons, to the art of cooking. The demon frowned. "... Yes, you had better pay." She agreed, as if she blamed him still for her predicament of havingincrediblebreasts, along with a rear and thighs that would have no chance at all in fitting into the trousers that he had worn into the village. Her tail wagged back and forth as the food came, though. Oh yes, it wagged incredibly quickly back and forth, enough to generate some wind. Her ears perked up straight and tall as she leaned over the plate. She preferred to eat things that could protest it until they passed out-- but this... this smelled delicious! She seized it with both small hands and tore into it. Even her bite was far smaller. She ripped the flesh free with a jerk and chewed as she looked at him."... Ahhh." She finished it, and burped in a wholly unladylike fashion." Well done, Nauru!" While it was rude to stare, Nauru had to admit he couldn’t help but steal occasional glances at Dakota’s new form. He had seen beautiful women before, but few were frankly breathtaking on the same level that Dakota had become. It was a completely different level, and he wasn’t sure if it was due to Dakota being a demon, the collar, or some other factor. Either way, with her clothing barely constraining her body, he had ample skin to look at. But once she began to just tear into the meal bare handed, he referred she did not have the same womanly charms as others did, but perhaps that was endearing in its own way. “You are welcome.” he spoke after the belch, his eyes closed for a moment. “Perhaps a bath or being able to relax would soothe some of the pain you’re feeling as well, I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt to at least feel properly clean either.” Nauru spoke as he simply ate a piece of bread. He wasn’t too hungry in all truth, he had eaten beforehand thanks to one of the villagers offering him a free meal, so for now he was content to just state what little hunger he had. Dakota wrinkled her nose at him. Oh, the food has been good. But he was a sly dog, wasn't he? A snake in the grass. She wiggled a finger at him. "And I suppose you, as my human pet, would seek to provide this bath?" She asked him. Her tone was certainly accusatory. But what was that just underneath? Something playful? Suggestive? She, mercurial as ever, stood.she did something that was shocking but not surprising then.she disrobed, letting it fall to the floor. She stood there in her nakedness, utterly feminine. Beautiful, breathtaking. Busty and curvy and tones. She flexed." Very well. Prepare my bath, human. My pain is your fault, and you will remedy it." “Well, I didn’t particularly intend to stay in the bath with you, I just figured it would help as a cure for your aching body.” At that moment he actually had no ulterior motive to start with, though perhaps he couldn’t blame Dakota for not believing him. The demon’s next action however was more than a bit shocking, and if Nauru had been taking a drink or swallowing at that precise moment he may well have choked on his food and given Dakota the early release from duty that they so wanted. (UN)fortunately, he had already finished his bread. “Well, I guess I don’t have a choice now, do I?” The apothecary was well furnished, including a bath that could draw hot water for healing the body. Rising, Nauru simply smoothed out his robes and moves for the room with a bath in it, kneeling next to the basin within it as he began to pump the water in, water steadily filling the tub as his arms worked the pump and steam slowly filled the room. Perhaps it would be a good idea to give the demon the privacy they likely wanted once he had finished. Dakota was pleased his-- or rather, her demand was accepted. This was the natural order of things. A human obeying a demon. The demon probably should have left it at that; made the human bathe her and then kick him out and contemplate whether he could stomach abandoning any hope of changing back by leaving the human. He couldn't say where his next impulse came from. Only that he gave into it." Two things, human. I am naked, and so should you be. It is only fair that if you look upon my body I can look upon yours, regardless of if you bathe. The second." She pauses. This second demand was more thoughtful. Not impulsive. It was something that she had to request so that she could try to build some resistance to it." Secondly, you will command me again. I wish to experience that sensation again." Was she blushing? Perhaps he shouldn’t be humoring Dakota, but for now there was no harm to such. “Is that so? Well then, as long as we have no secrets to hide, then…” He trailed of, his hands moving for his robes as he slipped them off, letting the cloth pool around his feet before he sat down once again. He was truly a handsome man, a toned body that wasn’t overly muscular, with slightly broad shoulders and a defined upper chest, but compared to Dakota hours ago he was certainly no musclebound brute. A few faded scars were on his shoulders and part of his chest, something that apparently bothered him little if at all. For now, he made no attempt to hide his shaft either, he instead sat in a seize style position once more, which is anything may draw one's eyes naturally towards what lay between his legs. Breathing in slowly and then sighing out, he was at least enjoying the ambient warmth.“A command? Are you sure that’s how it would work, Dakota?” As he asked, his eyes opened softly and looked her into the eyes. “I command you to wash yourself, slowly.” He spoke, his tone a bit more ironclad as he made sure the term was clear and well heard – the magic of the collar forcing its bearer to obey. Dakota did not look away. She offered him none of the respect he had shown with his eyes. She took in his body, his scars. Furthermore, she thought briefly to ask about them before remembering, hello! Furthermore, she was a demon and did not care! But she did check out the tones of his body. His broad shoulders. And, for a bit too long, she lingered her gaze upon his shaft. She squinted at it, as if trying to decide if he was as hung as she had been. She barely heard his words, continuing to stare as she struggled to answer this question-- until the compulsion took over. Noise filled her head like neural static, and she looked at the bath. She sauntered over to it, that pretty silver tail hiked up high to keep as much of it from getting wet as possible. She put one cute foot in and then the other, before slowly shifting to a comfortable position. The noise cleared up significantly, but her body still moved without her needing to think about it. The emptiness of her head was so pleasing. It was so much easier not to think, to just obey. It was scary, but it was a feeling she had craved since being told to sit. His command was not the one she had in mind, but she was okay with this. And then she, fleetingly, remembered she was supposed to be trying to resist. She tried, as her hand reached for the soap and sponge. Her arms trembled. Her eyes tensed, her nose wrinkled. She started to pant as her muscles contracted and seized in her arms, fighting. She was so out of breath, the girl panting as harshly as a dog on a summer day. Some drool dripped from her tongue to her large breast. She whined, and suddenly the conflict ended. She could not resist it. And now she was nothing but more sore, her arms screaming with each movement. She locked eyes with him, her tongue still out. She licked her lips and brought it back in as she started rubbing herself with the soap, until slippery skin became lathered with it. Every piece of skin she could reach above the water. Her neck, her shoulders, her arm pits. Her breasts were dunked in the water, nipples rarely popping above the water line of the steaming bath. She put the soap down for now and used the sponge to collect water. She would then squeeze it out, letting the water fall and dance along her skin. Little lines someone brave could trace were left behind by the rushing droplets of liquid. She sighed, and looked at him. She watched him. Was it any surprise when her eyes flicked down to his shaft to see if it were any harder? Obviously, as a boy, Dakota had no interest in it beyond a passing fascination. She just wanted to see if it was alive to tease him. Yes, that was certainly it. That was why she flicked those ears at him, right? Wagged that cute, fluffy tail. Splashed the water a little by shifting onto her knees, to bring those soapy, wet breasts into view." Again..." She mumbled out, the words coming before the thought. If she had asked he would have been honest. He was a competent sword fighter but not an expert of sword law. Nauru had his share of sword fights and had some injuries from the ones he walked away from. Nothing deep, and they had fully healed save the scars. Still he had no shame in showing his body off, though he did feel slightly curious about the now female Dakota looking him over, almost eyeing in the way one might look over someone they found attractive. While outwardly Nauru remained stoically faced, inwardly he had to admit some curiosity about that. Not that he would dare question the demon and seek to humiliate them, but it was still latent within him. What was more important and immediate was the way that Dakota responded to the command. At first Nauru assumed that the demon would do so with the bare minimum of cleansing one's self, but he had no idea as to how powerful the collars compulsions truly were, or perhaps this was what Dakota wanted to do all along. Her eyes almost seemed blank for a moment – not out of blind obedience or slavish devotion to the command but more from a blissful state of being. It was enough that Nauru felt awkward for just a moment, but that sensation soon passed as well, his eyes focused on the demon with almost equal entrancement. Just the way she washed her body, the rag slowly lathering the soap across her skin brought about a courtesan seeking to entice a man rather than any desire to properly clean ones self even if that was what Dakota was doing. But from her arms, to her sides, and even across her now bountiful breasts the dog demon washed herself, her body soon shining from the water and dripping with the lathered soap. It was a little hard for Nauru to look away, and whether the dog demon had been man or not hours before, it was the same as watching an incredibly beautiful woman bathe with the intent to arouse, making Nauru’s cheeks flush and his blood racing through his body. And if Dakota was looking for any sign of arousal, it was certainly there. His shaft was no longer flaccid, but hung in the air semi erect, seemingly hardening by the moment. Each little sigh and gasp from Dakota was just as enticing as any women. Yet Nauru remained as dignified as one could be, not seeking to abuse the demon’s trust just yet. Even the cute flicker of her ears was enough to entice him, but before long, he snapped out of any daydreaming as some of the water splashed out of the tub and onto his body as she mentioned ‘Again’.“Again?” He asked after a second, clearly surprised. “I was thinking you would rather not enjoy being commanded, yet here you are… It seems you are full of surprises. Well, demon. I command you to rise, slowly. Show me every inch of your body, rest on my lap.”

The Cursed Collar [SK_CS]|rating:4.0

Wraith ambush at the top

IOC: Continuation from here.IC: The wraiths bombarded with divine fire, presence and arcane acid that would dissolve most men in instants take a quick moment to gather their wits. The first amongst them flees with dread, overcome with divine compulsion, and another begins forming over the corpse of a sentry. Spoiler: Initiative Count and Wraith Health Hide Solana: Currently Dead. Wraith 6- Doesn't Appear until round 4. Wraith 5- Rebuked last turn, 9 rounds remaining. Sophia-Now up. Wraith 2–26/104HP, Takes 2d6 Acid damage on Sid'Jax's turn for the next 3 turns. Wraith 1–104/104HP Wraith 3–66/104HP Wraith 4–89/104HP, Takes 2d6 Acid damage on Sid'Jax's turn for the next 3 turns. Sid'Jax-. IOC: There are 6 new Wraiths forming, from the dead sentries. Also, you only just arrived. When did you attack the wraiths?? Who Rebuked? For some reason that is not showing up in my feed. No worries. Continue. Lol. Dread Wraiths As incorporeal creatures, the magic thrown upon them had little effect. One of the wraiths emitted a muscle-clenching hiss - its figure dissipating into the earth into regions unknown. Its fellows followed suit, their shapeless shadows descending into the solid earth and dispersing...IOC:Spoiler Hide Dread Wraiths are incorporeal - according to the type input on the SRD, that means that magic only has 50% chance to have any effect on them unless it's a force effect or positive energy, unless I'm reading something wrong. So in Wraith order, 1 to 5: 1d100 → [71] = (71) 1d100 → [1] = (1) 1d100 → [5] = (5) 1d100 → [36] = (36) 1d100 → [61] = (61) 1d100=71, 1d100=1, 1d100=5, 1d100=36, 1d100=61 Wraith 1 and 5 are effected - but wraith 1 took nothing and wraith 5 was already fleeing. For wraiths 2, 3 and 4, the magic doesn't affect them - unless its positive energy or a force effect. The Wraiths are taking 2 move actions, floating into the ground and flying 120' in different directions from the rebel camp. Aaand that ends that. Lol. Ooc:Oh it's not ended. They're hanging around in the same hex. Can't let the...mortal, rebels think that they're safe. IOC: ... Huh? I had done all the concealment [from incorporeal] and other stuff in the other thread, all was accounted for, and the damage was from... 5 spells I think. What are you rolling miss chance for? Also, action wise Sophia acts first, you know, the god level cleric, as I put in the OP? If you wish I can provide links, but you've got no reason to roll or act yet at all, also, what's happening with the rebuked wraith that should be fleeing directly away from Sophia at top speed? In order, IOC: She already acted though didn't she. Making it the wraiths turn.*looks*Pretty much battle is this:Wraith surprise round - killed 6 guards. Wriaths go yoga-booga and scare the rebels. The Rebels pray, Sid'Jax shows up going "what?" Sophia shows up "goes what?" Wraiths go to ground. Initiative:2 wraiths continue to hide. Sophia tries to turn undead making one of the hidden wraiths run (as it is a sphere area of effect). The other wraiths continue to hide. The end. Not seeing how anything else could have happened. You guys would have had to had multiple free actions for any other outcome. Wraiths will be lurking at the edges of the hex, but out of Sophia's turn range. Originally Posted by Miyamoto IOC: She already acted though didn't she. Making it the wraiths turn. *looks* Pretty much battle is this: Wraith surprise round - killed 6 guards. Wreaths go yoga-booga and scare the rebels. The Rebels pray, Sid'Jax shows up going "what?" Sophia shows up "goes what?" Wraiths go to ground. Sophia tries to turn undead making one of the hidden wraiths run (as it is a sphere area of effect). The end. Not seeing how anything else could have happened. You guys would have had to had multiple free actions for any other outcome. No, Sid'Jax looks with divine senses, says not again, and uses multiple free actions [War and Magic domain apply in my case], and I fully believed I had my full rounds actions as I wasn't surprised, at most Sophia was when she arrived to escape Kayos using her senses from me saying her name to pick a landing zone, however her turning could fall under Protection allowing her to use it as a free action and have one left... Let me go grab the relevant posts [soon] with thread links so you can observe that my actions were correctly managed, also, I thought only one wraith, so you're going to need 5 more initiative rolls. Also, Chilling, Might I suggest resurrecting the wraiths forming from the dead sentries, it should fall under healing so that will put 2 more down/turn, if not you can always be protecting mortals [they have no means to defend themselves otherwise] for your +2 divine free actions. Teleporting in is you action. You teleport in... wait...wraiths turn... Sophia teleports in... nothing left. Sophia nuking normal wraiths should not be a problem.Also, the two of you could share the teleport XP burden. And here are your relevant posts. Sid'Jax arrival and attack. Spoiler: Sid'Jax arrival and Attack Hide Originally Posted by Erik Vale Sid'Jax has been watching, well, listening to the rebels. He needs them... He quickly takes stock of the situation with his remote sensing. The agreement hasn't been signed, the others are creating his own pantheon, and technically undead aren't mortal. Suddenly Sid'Jax appears above the men. "Move. Now." He already had help to come, but he would be hours away... He would definitely be stepping in, besides, 5 dread wraiths were far beyond these humans capabilities, he would have to do something about recruiting his own soldiers beyond the four that had already called to him, and those who were declaring worship. "Sophia." Sid'Jax says the word quietly and rather simply, but there is more force behind it than any mortal could put. With that, he raises his hands and mutters words in celestial, a pillar of divine fire falls from the sky as volleys of eldritch acid fly towards the wraiths arcing between them. Spoiler: Actions Hide Free: Greater Teleport to 40ft above the wraiths and 30 ft forwards from them. Extra Standard, Swift, [part of] Full Round and Free to launch Chain Spear Vitriolic blasts. [part of] Full round to use Flame strike. Eldritch Blasts will focus on the most damaged then chain onto the next three most damaged, flame strike goes off first and if all possibles will be placed to get all the wraiths and none of the people, he will avoid people over wraiths. Spoiler: Flame strike, Reflex 20 Halves Hide Wraith 1 Damage: [roll0] Miss Chance: [roll1] Wraith 2 Damage: [roll2] Miss Chance: [roll3] Wraith 3 Damage: [roll4] Miss Chance: [roll5] Wraith 4 Damage: [roll6] Miss Chance: [roll7] Wraith 5 Damage: [roll8] Miss Chance: [roll9] Spoiler: Virtuosic Spear Chain 1, Reflex 21 Prevents 2d6 acid damage next 3 rounds Hide Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll10] vs Touch. Damage: [roll11] Concealment: [roll12] 2nd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll13] vs Touch. Damage: [roll14] Concealment: [roll15] 3rd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll16] vs Touch. Damage: [roll17] Concealment: [roll18] 4th Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll19] vs Touch. Damage: [roll20] Concealment: [roll21] Spoiler: Virtuosic Spear Chain 2, Reflex 21 Prevents 2d6 acid damage next 3 rounds Hide Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll22] vs Touch. Damage: [roll23] Concealment: [roll24] 2nd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll25] vs Touch. Damage: [roll26] Concealment: [roll27] 3rd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll28] vs Touch. Damage: [roll29] Concealment: [roll30] 4th Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll31] vs Touch. Damage: [roll32] Concealment: [roll33] Spoiler: Virtuosic Spear Chain 3, Reflex 21 Prevents 2d6 acid damage next 3 rounds Hide Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll34] vs Touch. Damage: [roll35] Concealment: [roll36] 2nd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll37] vs Touch. Damage: [roll38] Concealment: [roll39] 3rd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll40] vs Touch. Damage: [roll41] Concealment: [roll42] 4th Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll43] vs Touch. Damage: [roll44] Concealment: [roll45] Spoiler: Virtuosic Spear Chain 4, Reflex 21 Prevents 2d6 acid damage next 3 rounds Hide Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll46] vs Touch. Damage: [roll47] Concealment: [roll48] 2nd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll49] vs Touch. Damage: [roll50] Concealment: [roll51] 3rd Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll52] vs Touch. Damage: [roll53] Concealment: [roll54] 4th Most Damaged Wraith Hit: [roll55] vs Touch. Damage: [roll56] Concealment: [roll57] Spoiler: Resolution of attacks." [QUOTE=Erik Vale;16271079][B]Posting as DM[/B] [SPOILER="Reflex Saves for Flame Strike Hide Wraith 1, 4 and 5 are missed due to concealment. Wraith 2: [roll0] vs 20 Wraith 3: [roll1] vs 20 Spoiler: Reflex Saves for Virtuosic Spear Chain 1 Hide Wraith hit 1st. Concealed: Yes, Chain ends. Spoiler: Reflex Saves for Virtuosic Spear Chain 2 Hide Wraith hit 1st. Concealed: No Hit: Yes Save: [roll2] Wraith hit 2nd. Concealed: No Hit: Yes Save: [roll3] Wraith hit 3rd. Concealed: No Hit: Yes Save: [roll4] Wraith hit 4th. Concealed: Yes, Chain ends Spoiler: Reflex Saves for Virtuosic Spear Chain 3 Hide Wraith hit 1st. Concealed: Yes, Chain ends. Spoiler: Reflex Saves for Virtuosic Spear Chain 4 Hide Wraith hit 1st. Concealed: Yes, Chain ends. Wraith status:-Wraith 1: Unharmed.-Wraith 2: 26 HP, Suffering 2d6 Acid/Round for the next 3 rounds.-Wraith 3: 66HP-Wraith 4: 89HP, Suffering 2d6 Acid/Round for the next 3 round.-Wraith 5: Rebuked, fleeing. Please roll initiative in the IOC Now for those that would like to act other than last/first auto as bystanders, this is being a surprise round as far as the wraiths are concerned.[/QUOTE]][/SPOILER]Spoiler: Initiative Rolls Hide Originally Posted by Erik Vale I'll do a IC of the time skip and exact circumstances later [just a little awkwardly done]. Meanwhile, Initiative: Sid'Jax [roll0] Wraiths: 1: [roll1] 2: [roll2] 3: [roll3] 4: [roll4] 5: [roll5] 6: [roll6] Wraith 6 Appears in round: [roll7]. He, that one will probably appear when the rest are all dead. Also, one, yay. Spoiler: Sophia actions and Initiative Hide Originally Posted by Chillingworth Sophia's Initiative: [roll0] Solana's initiative (currently dead, but that'll be fixed eventually.): [roll1] Originally Posted by Chillingworth To start, Sophia turns undead. Turning Check: [roll0] Turning Damage: [roll1] even if I roll minimum, I'll be able to affect 25 HD of undead, with a maximum individual HD of 18. If rolls aren't present, go to the links. Edit: Our teleportation [well, mine] is a standard action as per the greater teleport divine SLA ability, and I was not surprised by the attack. I can edit which attacks I would use with my frees should it be decided I am 'surprised' in which case flame strike goes off damaging two and one virtuosic spear chain goes off, I'm not sure if the first is the one that damaged but all I have done has been in accordance with the rules. However, if anything, I had a surprise round myself after the wraiths surprise round. Ooc:Spoiler Hide I had done all the concealment [from incorporeal] and other stuff in the other thread, all was accounted for, and the damage was from... 5 spells I think. What are you rolling miss chance for? Because 3 of those spells should've missed - the three that did anything, leaving the wraiths unharmed. I didn't see any mention of rolling for miss chance - I'm happy to rescind if I've missed something. Also, action wise Sophia acts first, you know, the god level cleric, as I put in the OP? If you wish I can provide links, but you've got no reason to roll or act yet at all I just got told to post and that "I was up" also, what's happening with the rebuked wraith that should be fleeing directly away from Sophia at top speed? I imagine it's fleeing, yeah? It was still your action. Making it the wraiths turn as soon as you appear. So they get to all act before Sophia teleports in, or you get to do anything. Even if we go by initiative with you teleporting in, two wraiths act, Sophia comes in and can do nothing, then the rest of the wraiths act. Either way we go the wraiths are gone before you cast the spear. The only way you could get other actions is if you used them before teleporting, which still stops anything offensive. Teleporting across the entire map ends your turn.EDIT: Yeah fleeing wraith would vanish under the ground and flee until it gets far enough away to stop. How is a standard action teleport SLA on my part a full round action + swift + my free standard from build + my two free actions? Even if we call I'm limited by surprise round, I still get my 2 frees, swift and free standard action after I teleport. Edit: Also, I forgot I could chain my historic spear chains, so my actions weren't even at full effect, and having thought about it flame strike spamming would be more effective than what I did. Ooc:Spoiler Hide Please don't take this the wrong way, but you're a God with another demigod nearby, taking on less than half a dozen CR 11 creatures... I think you can afford to skip some technicalities. BOBWHITE NOISE! Originally Posted by Banana Phone Because 3 of those spells should've missed - the three that did anything, leaving the wraiths unharmed. I didn't see any mention of rolling for miss chance - I'm happy to rescind if I've missed something. Look again. I listed it as concealment. For the rolls take a look at it through the link, I resolve concealment as rolls under the number are negated, that's how I always do it [though I was horribly tempted], there is absolutely no bias I just got told to post and that "I was up" ... Whoever told you to do so was wrong, as you should have been able to tell by looking at the initiative count, and that still allows you to negate multiple spells [well, two effective] that you had no knowledge about the resolution of based on what. Yes I'm annoyed, how did you notice I imagine it's fleeing, yeah? Yes, however I agree it would enter the ground then run. However, having talked I see Sophia should have no more actions, and it should be your turn until Sophia's again, and I agree that our actions wouldn't necessarily constitute their own surprise round. At the moment the argument is with all my actions other than arrival being negated. However, most importantly, you need to roll 5 more spawn times and initiatives for when they spawn, or you can do so when they do so, your preference. IOC: You still saved the rebels just by turning up anyway.5 CR 11 monsters were more than a match for the lower level PCs, fair enough. But you guys are CR 21+. If we want to balance it we could bring Kayos and thirst in here... They have multiple free actions as well. Kayos has infinite of them in fact... Just let the wraiths run, teleport the rebels out, and then I will get some mechanics in place to stop all of this divine wrath and high CR stuff from happening. Getting quite silly now, particularly how optimized you guys are... Originally Posted by Banana Phone IOC: Spoiler Hide Please don't take this the wrong way, but you're a God with another demigod nearby, taking on less than half a dozen CR 11 creatures... I think you can afford to skip some technicalities. ... No, at present we are taken on 11 [even should 6 be in the process of spawning] CR11 creatures with [102-6] 96 more possible spawned, all of which are creatures which are incorporeal spawners and are thus hugely under evaluated. Also, one of the gods fighting them is woefully unprepared for the engagement [I've yet to actually make items [I should have by now though, my fault] and I have no force spells] and is only liable to survive due to the fact he is immune to level/con drain. However, Sid'Jax upon seeing this is probably thinking of just blasting the dark empire and forcing a compact to prevent such nonsense. I mean, in effect, before the gods arrived, the battle was effectively 101 dread wraiths [most arriving over time] vs 1 level 9. Hardly fair. Originally Posted by Miyamoto IOC: You still saved the rebels just by turning up anyway. 5 CR 11 monsters were more than a match for the lower level PCs, fair enough. But you guys are CR 21+. If we want to balance it we could bring Kayos and thirst in here... They have multiple free actions as well. Kayos has infinite of them in fact... Just let the wraiths run, teleport the rebels out, and then I will get some mechanics in place to stop all of this divine wrath and high CR stuff from happening. Getting quite silly now, particularly how optimized you guys are... ... Bwahahahaha! Incorporeal creatures with life sense that can kill with a touch whilst all but immune to our attacks? Yes, we saved the day by showing up despite a theoretical 106 wraiths with one round action from each of 5 starting wraiths over many rounds. Also optimize, up until this point I've wanted to DE-optimise [I was actually considering resubmitting a bard/eldritch scholar [as base class, when I get around to is] rebuilding my character through retraining to be somewhat more inline with magic/knowledge over war, I am unequipped almost totally [yes, how close to my wealth by level am I? 1% maybe?], and I'm now planning on getting flammable time stop to stay in the game with the guy that got it for flavor and would otherwise not touch it barring gentlemen agreement that would actually be in game were it not for one god turning evil and then all the evil ones crying lol nope with optimization. IOC:5 Dread Wraiths make wraiths, not more Dread Wraiths. They need to kill in order to do it, the men are spread out. It would have taken hundreds of rounds for all 100 men to be killed. The PCs are level 6 and level 3. Not level 9. The Dread Wraiths cannot touch you and Sophia has unlimited Turn Undead. They would have all been dead or fleeing within a round or two, even the new Wraiths. Go and make a cup of tea man.EDIT: Thinking about sitting down and changing all the gods a little. Unlimited time stop is the most stupid thing in this game right after unlimited Solar. Spoiler Hide Originally Posted by Erik Vale ... No, at present we are taken on 11 [even should 6 be in the process of spawning] CR11 creatures with [102-6] 96 more possible spawned, all of which are creatures which are incorporeal spawners and are thus hugely under evaluated. Also, one of the gods fighting them is woefully unprepared for the engagement [I've yet to actually make items [I should have by now though, my fault] and I have no force spells] and is only liable to survive due to the fact he is immune to level/con drain. However, Sid'Jax upon seeing this is probably thinking of just blasting the dark empire and forcing a compact to prevent such nonsense. I mean, in effect, before the gods arrived, the battle was effectively 101 dread wraiths [most arriving over time] vs 1 level 9. Hardly fair. Spoiler Hide You were always there - from the beginning this was an invincible god backed up by a demigod vs easily killed enemies. The only threat they pose is to kill the fleeing rebels before they themselves are wiped out - and that's my tactic. Any other strategy results in a one-sided massacre. Originally Posted by Miyamoto IOC: 5 Dread Wraiths make wraiths, not more Dread Wraiths. They need to kill in order to do it, the men are spread out. It would have taken hundreds of rounds for all 100 men to be killed. The PCs are level 6 and level 3. Not level 9. Wondered that, however they are still a nuisance and a potential wraith unit. My mistake as to the PC's, that just means they are hopelessly outclassed and would be dead without divine intervention especially since your time-skip was not a clear time skip so the guy I had coming to help out as part of Sid'Tax countermoves isn't present. The Dread Wraiths cannot touch you and Sophia has unlimited Turn Undead. They would have all been dead or fleeing within a round or two, even the new Wraiths. Didn't know she had unlimited. Also, every fleeing wraith is an unrestricted human and a huge DE bonus, but yes I recognize that we are as immune to them as they are immune to the mortals, however I note that barring turn undead we have minimal offensive capability. Go and make a cup of tea man. ... Now I want a cocoa now that you mention it... Stop trying to make me leave my keyboard. EDIT: Thinking about sitting down and changing all the gods a little. Unlimited time stop is the most stupid thing in this game right after unlimited Solar. Yes, yes it is. That sort of thing should be stopped by: a] Gentlemen agreement. B] DM remembering the rules, and talking to players about changing the domain spells... Something that I would like because I would love to fiddle with some of my SLA's... Originally Posted by Banana Phone Spoiler Hide You were always there - from the beginning this was an invincible god backed up by a demigod vs easily killed enemies. The only threat they pose is to kill the fleeing rebels before they themselves are wiped out - and that's my tactic. Any other strategy results in a one-sided massacre. No, I came when called. No demigods [well, two technically], and that is not the only threat they pose, they pose a threat as undead spawners, capable of turning this into a hyper effective unit for the DE or into effective special units for the DE.... I actually think that Sid'Jax is going to ask Sophia to add 'aid in destroying all fast replicating incorporeal/word not present undead and kill all your own of such type' clause into the divine compact. Ooc:Spoiler Hide I haven't read the other thread, but I doubt that you were called down in response to the rebels being attacked by Wraiths. And even if you were, it galvanizes my belief that these Gods-being-present-on-the-battlefield is rather silly as it renders anything us mortals do as naught if another player playing a God just rocks up. Posting this in both threads [and possibly double posting]I've looked at the time and as much as I would love to argue the points, I think we all agree that the game is worked in some ways and this is just going to be one of these ways. The main point of contention I have here is that my actions and possible more appropriate aid are being ketone/prevented from happening, however I'm not the DM and ultimately, I like the game too much to cause more trouble with the game as far as gods go. So, undo my actions or not as you chose, it'll just vary how hard Sid'Jax comes down on everything later [Sid'Jax doesn't know Kayos is evil and is fully willing to spam time stop ATM, so there is a kill switch even if I would take a lot of finding, and there is always the old guy from the back room to cry lol-nope]. However, after this combat is dealt with but before ANY[Can you tell I'm serious] more divine actions go on, I think Gain and us gods need to sit down and hammer out more reasonable [for this game] god rules and perhaps adjust characters, or offer the possibility that adding gods to this added unnecessary complications, and after he provides nerf-hammer in the form of taking all the gods under his control and making them more absent/evening the nations slightly [i.e. no frigged wraiths/wrights/shadows/others fast spawning hordes].However, if we step back as gods, I would really like for the opportunity for us to step in as rulers or champions be provided. Originally Posted by Banana Phone IOC: Spoiler Hide I haven't read the other thread, but I doubt that you were called down in response to the rebels being attacked by Wraiths. And even if you were, it galvanizes my belief that these Gods-being-present-on-the-battlefield is rather silly as it renders anything us mortals do as naught if another player playing a God just rocks up. It is true [seriously, go read], however if it weren't for the fact that one wraith would be consider an impossible fight for the entire group present and the fact that offensive magic is non-present, none of us gods would be here. And yes, one of the points in the post I just made is that gods are a bit powerful as Gain has said, and we need to be hit with the nerf bat. Ooc:Spoiler Hide In my defense I am) asked for normal wraiths, and b) sent them just to scout, and to only take out targets if they could do so without being seen, not to go all Charge of the Light Brigade on me. Originally Posted by Banana Phone IOC: Spoiler Hide In my defense I am) asked for normal wraiths, and b) sent them just to scout, and to only take out targets if they could do so without being seen, not to go all Charge of the Light Brigade on me. Spoiler: IOC Hide a]That would have been a lot more manageable, it could well have ended up being the level 9 against a group of wraiths, kinda like if the habits numbered 100 instead of 4. B]They probably decided to take seen as literal and allowed themselves to be heard so they could feast, however now they would be working well within orders to engage within his and run. However until we showed up, it was 'Godzilla v individual human' effectively, and now it's more like 'Unstoppable forces against difficult to affect objects. "ON ME MEN!" he orders forcefully, his voice piercing through the panicked air. The Wreckers were soldiers, they didn't need consolation, they needed to do something, they needed orders a fixed point, and that was all he could offer, that was all he offered. The Wreckers gathered on his position, the clear command piercing through the haze of fear and resounding with the disciplined core all soldiers had."WE'LL GET THROUGH THIS, THE VERY GODS ARE ON OUR SIDE!" he continued, making one of his increasingly less rare calls to religion. Spoiler: IOC Hide Okay yeah following your suggestions Erik IOC: Ok, from what I know, it's now our turns post-wraith? I'm sure Chilling won't mind this occurring out of initiative, and if Chilling does, then it just happens after Sophia acts. I will also be assuming that the camp is small enough for the humans to gather in one round, if it takes longer, then this post will be pushed back several rounds.IC:Sid'Jax looks around, smiling at the humans as they gather around their leader. Efficient, dedicated, every bit soldiers." Soldiers, you are to be praised! Now touch those besides you for your lives depend on it, pack together and be ready for whatever son the other side." Sid'Jax turns his awareness to a rough idol one of the soldiers of the freedom fighters had created, taking in the area. He would have to land outside the webs, but the two would be together, he could give the wizard enough details to teleport. One of his heads turn and fix on Sophia, his eyes blazing with wrath as she receives a telepathic message.Lt;"Sophia, I'm going to transport these men here.-Sgt;"She receives a flood of images, enough to teleport to the location or find it easily on the map [Link]"Lt;-I need you to deal with this here and now, from what I know you can call the dead back to life a distance from the corpse, so you can ask these men for their details that you may breach to them the vital essence... I thank you for allowing me to be the survivor, but now I must show the tittle of my name true to our foes."Sgt;With that, he turns his mind to speak wider and in great volume, reaching everyone, including the wraiths.Lt;"Know wraiths, I am Sid'Jax the Survivor, but you have awoken Unific Far, He who is the Growing Wrath upon your masters!."Sgt;With that, Sid'Jax flies appears above the now huddling men, and disappears. Spoiler: Actions and IOC Hide These actions span multiple turns, this one is on the first. Swift Action: Quickened Flee the Scene to the troops. Full: Miracle [for another 2000xp, noting both on my sheet before I forget to again] in order to remove the load and target limits on my teleport, and greater teleport SLA transporting everyone other t#post16277862han Sophia and the Wraiths to the A Rainy Day thread, IC post over there to occur. Free: Greater teleport to the table, using which I learn the location of all the settlements in the DE. Sid'Jax blames the messes thus far squarely in his court, even if they are not his, so this is IC Sid'Jax bashing Thirst, not IOC Me bashing you. Once I have located all the towns, I will teleport to a random tunnel in the underdark, I don't know locations enough so I bounce and take damage which I promptly heal with 20fast healing. Whilst I heal, I put down my non-magical bow, and mark it with a rough idol of me, just enough that I can activate my sense blocking on it. I then hide it, and finish healing. I do not activate sense blocking. Furthermore, I then teleport to a random underdark tunnel within a mile of the other tunnel [the range of my sense block], and memorize the location well enough to return to the place well, and find a hiding spot in the tunnel. Do you have any problems with my actions thus far? I base the miracle on what I have done before. Bump post to delete, link updated and IC post of movement occurred. At worst, it's moved back a few rounds, and you arrive with magic weapons. WTF are you doing with the table and the underdark and the DE etc.? You realize directly attacking the DE would make you the first and only God to directly assault another's followers. Again... I am pretty much going to curb-stomp your character if you do anything other than defensive actions against other PCs. Yes, I plan on aggressive negotiations with entirely IC reasonable reasons. Or the chair could work, and I could lock us all in a room for a while, and I plan on making a rather loud declaration over the capital a round before I start reducing cities to ash. As for what I am doing, I am:-Setting up for blocking divine sensing from everyone with =/lower divine rank than me... I note now that that doesn't affect Kayos, I'll make Sid'Jax pause a while when he realizes that. And potentially desist.-Setting up a safe place within the field to hide.-Setting up to force everyone to the table to properly discuss removing us and most of our interference from the field. Ok. Still not clear on what you are doing, where, and how... IOC:So the rebels got teleported away, yes? The wraiths are still in the area, with their numbers increasing in the next few rounds - at least, from bodies that the avatar woman doesn't get to first....the end? Swift Action: Quickened Flee the Scene to the troops. Full: Miracle [for another 2000xp, noting both on my sheet before I forget to again] in order to remove the load and target limits on my teleport, and greater teleport SLA transporting everyone other t#post16277862han Sophia and the Wraiths to the A Rainy Day thread, IC post over there to occur. Free: Greater teleport to the table, using which I learn the location of all the settlements in the DE. Sid'Jax blames the messes thus far squarely in his court, even if they are not his, so this is IC Sid'Jax bashing Thirst, not IOC Me bashing you. I am teleporting to the troops [I lack a move action], transporting them somewhere else with the aid of a miracle, then teleporting to the table to double-check town locations of the dark empire. Once I have located all the towns, I will teleport to a random tunnel in the underdark, I don't know locations enough so I bounce and take damage which I promptly heal with 20fast healing. Whilst I heal, I put down my non-magical bow, and mark it with a rough idol of me, just enough that I can activate my sense blocking on it. I then hide it, and finish healing. I do not activate sense blocking. Furthermore, I teleport into the underdark, and make it possible to center a divine sensing block on someplace other than me, and hiding said means. This hurts me and I heal. I then teleport to a random underdark tunnel within a mile of the other tunnel [the range of my sense block], and memorize the location well enough to return to the place well, and find a hiding spot in the tunnel. I then teleport to another tunnel in the underdark, pick a place to hide while teleporting, and memorize the location. And heal again because teleportation bounce is painful. Ooc: So the rebels got teleported away, yes? The wraiths are still in the area, with their numbers increasing in the next few rounds - at least, from bodies that the avatar woman doesn't get to first. ...the end? Unless Sophia wants to dig the wraiths out of the earth or can resurrection kill them from range, yes. And before I forget again, spending that damn XP... I'm barely going to have enough for that blighted compact. Originally Posted by Erik Vale I am teleporting to the troops [I lack a move action], transporting them somewhere else with the aid of a miracle, That is fine. Originally Posted by Erik Vale then teleporting to the table to double-check town locations of the dark empire. Why? Originally Posted by Erik Vale I teleport into the underdark, Most of the underdark is solid rock. You would need to manually explore each hex using normal MPs and a method of tunneling. Originally Posted by Erik Vale and make it possible to center a divine sensing block on someplace other than me, and hiding said means. This hurts me and I heal. How do you make these?divine sensing divinities. This would not stop anyone from crying the location or using the table to watch what is going on. Not that you have any way of making them... Originally Posted by Erik Vale I then teleport to another tunnel in the underdark, pick a place to hide while teleporting, and memorize the location. And heal again because teleportation bounce is painful. Same problem as above. Originally Posted by Miyamoto That is fine. Why? Because it's better not to miss Most of the underdark is solid rock. You would need to manually explore each hex using normal MPs and a method of tunneling. No, you stated that the table revealed to me places where underdark tunnels existed but not enough for teleporting. I'm finding them through teleport bounce and fast healing. Or I could always just use legend lore/divination/my other divination SLA's, one of which finds the shortest route to a place which will be teleported here, so meh. Ahh, found the spells, Discern Location [A rock or draw maybe] and find the path. Done. How do you make these? Divine sensing divinities. This would not stop anyone from crying the location or using the table to watch what is going on. Not that you have any way of making them... I mark/break my bow using my claws until it is a crude idol but enough for the purposes. If you dislike me using the bow, then I draw my face on my cloak, disjoint it to prevent sense magic, and use that. What do I draw with? Blood if I have to. And yes, the plan is flawed, such has been pointed out, Sid'Jax is likely to be directly attacked. However, I think I can survive long enough to infuriate Thirst who has no means of crying that I know of. If he has more divine ranks well, it just becomes hit-and-run battle. If not, then he has to go beg, which would be rather humiliating. Same problem as above. See second bold bit. Remaining problems other than:They are more likely to kill then negotiate. Oh, in related news, I just noticed that while I teleport at CL 20, my other divine SLAs are only CL 11. So the two most damaged wraiths are less damaged, the most 4d6 so and the 2nd most 2d6 less so, should that be important. Ooc:I'll wait on Sophia's reaction. However, given that the rebels and Sin are gone and Sophia's effectively fighting for nothing, the wraiths will most likely move to secure the Hex for the process of annexation. Mmm... Thinking of which Gain and I really should be speaking in another thread of not the god IOC from this point onwards... I'll make a new one so we can get out of your way. Thread.

Wraith ambush at the top|rating:2.0

ULTRA - OOC Thread

Use this for IOC conversation. Hang on, folks. I'll make a character thread. (Characters who have been approved, as well as characters who have approved concepts but may not have their sheets completely fleshed out yet, can chat it up in the Lounge in the IC Side Thread if they so choose. Oh, and unless anyone objects, I'm going to use dollars as currency. I'll leave it unsaid whether Japan abandoned the yen, if the world all uses the same currency or whatever, but it's easier to do $ than ¥. Random character building theory crafting question: if I wanted to increase the reach of the extra arms, but not have the other benefits of elastic, how would I do that? The range variable is a bit too much of a jump. I believe you'd spend a point to increase the Range on Telekinesis in order to get 10 meters. However, I'd want to double-check if that's how that works. Anyone know for sure? Area on Telekinesis, maybe? I already have the range variable on my telekinesis, but having it cross over seems a little broken to me. Though area on the extra arms maybe, to increase the area in which they can be effective in? It scales more reasonably. Works for me. Assume you already have Area 1m for Extra Arms, which should be about your normal reach. (- IC Main Thread Feel free to finish up the game in the side thread, but I'm pretty sure we have everyone, so we can get this party started. If someone still wants in, though, I can handle a few more players. Just tagging the thread and saying that I post my character on char sheet thread once it's approved. I start posting IC now as my concept would not change much (just some point shuffling). I'm in the middle of posting my character right now so if no one objects I'll post in the side thread. Cessna, please remove your post from the character thread until she's fully approved. You can continue to post in the side thread though. It's done. Average, my plans for "Second Skin Plaster" are a level 3 Armour item. I'm imagining one of those sexy suits that Zero Suit Camus wears, but your char, and you can choose what you like. For those planning ahead, I anticipate giving out 3bp per mission. Oh, and if someone does drop in combat, they'll teleport you back unless your character has specified otherwise. For the Ultra Pong game in the Side Thread, I see two options....crap, I just noticed the ULTRA and Ultra Pong redundancy...consider it a coincidence. Anyway, either we can free-form it, or we can have people roll. If you're rolling, add your Attack Combat Value to a 2d6 roll. The first person to roll has to get at least 10, then the next person has to get at least 11, then 12, 13, and so on as the ball gets faster and faster. Ring is at a -1 to this roll for the machine's slight delay to rendering her current position. Ideally, let one person from the last team post before you make a post on your end, and don't post if you were the last person on your team to post. Whether people want to free-form it or make the roll is up to them. Sorry for the delay in posting, but the last few days at work have pretty much wiped me out. As for the Second skin Plaster it sounds like a winner, but I might change the design slightly to fit her style more. Shouldn't the sports skill count somehow (not that I have it)? Quote from: average on 27-02-2012, 20:47:19Sorry for the delay in posting, but the last few days at work have pretty much wiped me out. As for the Second skin Plaster it sounds like a winner, but I might change the design slightly to fit her style more. No worries. And sure, you can adjust it to whatever you like, I wanted to suggest the idea is all. Quote from: Scene on 27-02-2012, 21:26:04Shouldn't the sports skill count somehow (not that I have it)? It probably should. Does anyone have it? I have the sports skill actually HHH...sure, I'll give a +1 for that from here on in, Average. You can keep your current roll, though. Are they wearing full helms? ^_^;; You know, looking at the characters playing Ultra Pong, I don't know how the hell I managed to count 8 characters not including Marco. That was Derby of me. Quote from: Muse on 28-02-2012, 00:20:54Are they're wearing full helms? ^_^;; Mostly full helms. Their faces can partially be seen through the quasi-opaque plaster, but the rest of their heads are covered. (image is close to what I had in mind, though far from perfect, but should at least give the basic idea if you make it metal and haze in and toughen the glass. AER, I'm a little confused. How are you moving 150 meters back to the sniping position after you just clawed a hole in the wall to the building? Well, he was teleported besides Well to claw hole to the wall where you could snipe the gang members. Once wall hole was done it alarmed gang member, and then I seem have mixed up Isaac's post with Well it seems (who has not yet acted). So sorry for confusion :P. In essence Leo is now crouching and firing shot through hole which he clawed moment ago, and he has shifted back human form. Explaining Combat - A Nutshell Presumably everyone understands ACV and DCV. If not, I'll go back and explain that. Damage is calculated via the following formula:[Weapon level] * [Damage Multiplier] + AVIF your Weapon level is 4, your Damage Multiplier is 5, and your ACV is 6, you calculate 4*5+6=26. Armor subtracts directly from this value; any remaining damage (unless stopped with Force Fields, Shields or similar) subtracts from HP. So Leo's case it is his weapon level 5 x 7 DMG multiplier + 9 ACV. So total 42pts DMG per shot. Considering it is not armor nor force field penetrating and leader looked have fancy gear, so Leo is not reducing his DMG and hoping to hit shock value even through armor abortion. I think I see the confusion. Did I not make it clear that the wall that has to come down is in the building where the gangers are? Let's say that the teleported put you down in a spot close enough to the wall, which wouldn't be too difficult to do stealthily until the wall suddenly disappeared, and the light started coming in from the side of the building. So far as I can tell, most Attributes don't require an action unless it's either an attack, using an Item, or has the Activation quality. Picking up and ready a sniper rifle, though, would be a general action, so I'll count that as one of your actions and the first attack (the 13) will get through. Oh, and I forgot to mention, but ACV and DCV cap at 9. That means that the accuracy bonus on the sniper rifle would bring it up to 12, but the cap is 9, so it doesn't count. If you want to move those points, let me know. By the way, I love the DR linking. ^_^ Quote from: Andy on 28-02-2012, 11:21:03By the way, I love the DR linking. ^_^ He, thanks :). Anyway ok, so accuracy does not go past 9 (I assumed it did). But consider his supreme skill with pistols and sniper rifles he has no need for 'scope' so sacrifice accuracy bonus for 8pts armor and force field penetration then (it costs total 3pts to get this through two features). Fair enough. If you want, you can keep the accuracy bonus on the sniper rifle if you want other people to be able to use it, but you don't have to. You can just be so awesome that you don't bother with a scope. Changing to two points of Penetrating and one point of Piercing? Fair enough. Yep, 2pts for penetrating and 1 for piercing. Yeah, Leo is awesome as he can without scope fire sniper rifle and fire it off damn well (precise aim, blind shot, steady hands etc. he could fire to bulls eye from a jet plane :P). Also note if he sees any firearm category weapons for gang to use, he has weapon encyclopedia for them so he would know the 'specs' so to speak. Also, I think it's fancy that his human alternative form is pistol/sniper guru because he as kid decided mimic form/shape of an anime character (there comes his 6pts feature; handsome) who was weapon guru also. But in true form he has no idea how fire off a gun. Thanks for the reminder; I forgot you had Weapon Encyclopedia. Most of the ex-mechs are set up with electrical current running through the fists, allowing them to give super punches. The leader, however, appears to have a minigun forming on his arm (no Activation rating; it's just doing the anime slow-motion transformation that happens instantaneously in real time).... Gah! You have Feature appearance of 6? How did I not catch that? It caps at 3. Gas! I got 3pts to spend on something! OMG! Have now thought where put them where it makes sense -_- Also, I don't have my book on me to check the math, but I see 11 ranks of Combat Techniques as a human. 3+3+1+3+1. Combining that with the ones innate to your form, you'd be way, way over the 10 mark. I'll double-check everything better when I have the chance. Scentless could be a good one as a feature if you're based on an anime character and suddenly lose so much sense of smell and all. Scentless as 1pt feature? Works, that way he is very good scout as not dogs cannot smell him if he is near nor track him by scent :P. But to be scentless means he does not sweat then? Anyways I realized also moment ago my human form has lots of combat techniques and I still got my innate techniques in. I likely change them, but it means I got more points to spend on stuff -_-. You may think it's a good thing, but I try stick with theme that my human form is well around average expect he has stilled his regeneration. How much a 'zoom vision' would cost? An ability to have scope eyes which are not cybernetic but more natural occurring event? Could fit concept he is a scopless sniper, and could have great eye for details even long distance. Hey, if I goofed by not catching it, I can't exactly fault you on not catching it either. ^_^ No worries. Whether you sweat or not is up to you, but you can't be tracked by scent, and you don't give off any scent. Hmmm...yeah, I'll allow that for a shape-shifter who didn't originally understand that humans couldn't do that (and may not know even now). That's a feature, worth 1 point. *chomps at bit* So is it possible for Kira to know what's going on in the basement and if so would be able to get down there? Quote from: Cessna on 28-02-2012, 12:29:31 *chomps at bit* So is it possible for Kira to know what's going on in the basement and if so would be able to get down there? Yes, but you may want to let Scene post first. After that, you can start your post by teleporting into the basement. You mean zoom gaze is worth 1pt feature + pts spend on range to determine how far 'close sight' detail his gaze reaches up forward? It starts 1m in 0 pt, 10m with 1pt and so on. Or is 1pt stuff for no sweating? Works :). After all felines do not 'sweat' at all. They just open mouth and shuffle if they feel to bent up extend heat off their bodies. His human body allows remove heat other ways, but he does not sweat from heat. Quote from: AER Dark wail on 28-02-2012, 12:34:37You mean zoom gaze is worth 1pt feature + pts spend on range to determine how far 'close sight' detail his gaze reaches up forward? It starts 1m in 0 pt, 10m with 1pt and so on. Or is 1pt stuff for no sweating? Works :). After all felines do not 'sweat' at all. They just open mouth and shuffle if they feel to bent up extend heat off their bodies. His human body allows remove heat other ways, but he does not sweat from heat. Just having binocular vision is 1 point. You don't have to purchase range for it. That reason for not sweating works fine for me. Chalk it up to a flaw at how you originally understood humans, I guess, along with that you're not innately human and thus things aren't 100%. Well, unless I misread your post, you're taking Ready Action to shoot whoever tries to escape the building. Mind throwing me advance attack rolls so that when the NPCs go, I can just compare the dice without having to wait? Alright... here's the situation as I understand it... from the wall we made a hole in we could see all of our potential attackers, however opening the hole alerted them to our location... we shot at and took down the man we wanted to target, but the leader escaped, as such I changed tactics for a close range battle as the gang would now be charging into the building, coming up the stairs as we are perched on the roof or a few floors down from the roof... I will make my dice rolls once we have confirmed this is what is happening... Not quite. Sorry I've been unclear. The gang is in a building I'm going to call Building A. Building B, the sniper location, is 150 meters away. A big hole got clawed into the side of Building A, allowing the snipers to shoot inside. However, the gangers are not so blind as to miss a big hole getting clawed into their building. You guys automatically win unit, but they aren't completely surprised enough that they can't dodge. My impression is that you're at the bottom of Building A, setting up a spot to keep them inside. You can instead teleport to Building B if you so choose, where you have prime sniping position because there's a big hole. Alright so now that this has been confirmed I need to change my post entirely because my sniper wouldn't be positioning himself at the hole, he would have positioned himself at the firing location... meaning Leo is on his own and Isaac and I are taking shots, it also means Well wouldn't be holding Leo's weapon, unless I was teleported to the sniping position after the hole was made... which wouldn't make much sense as I would have taken defensive position with Leo... Yeah, I don't think I made things clear enough originally. I'm sorry. Go ahead and delete your post and do another. And then Leo's actions would not make any sense as he made hole specifically because so Well could shoot on the gang members. He hoped to do it enough 'quiet' fashion so it's not detected but was wrong *shrug*. But if Well is not even there he would not even do the hole and instead sneak around as a small cat which rubs on gang legs while he gates intel. At this point, I would really rather not recon things unless everyone really thinks it's necessary. You guys aren't in any real danger or anything. Don't worry about it... I assumed a lot... I thought the 'wall' was on the sniping tower, and we would be pushing the shaft of our rifles through the hole to fire...you would still have to make a hole for us to fire through AER... just that we wouldn't be standing with you, and you would have to go stealth the instant the hole was made so as not to be detected... Whenever I start out with a new group, I usually begin with a combat against some lower-powered opponents, in order to wean out all these little goofs. I'll just have to do a better job of making sure everyone's on the same page. Yeah, but this point I would say that Leo did hole and sniped through it on the boss and then moved take cover. So they think one sniper shot the gang member down and made shot on boss (so one guy is distraction while two real snipers fire from further behind him). Leo's close enough to hear the percussive shot very easily, though, so they'll at least know he's nearby. Also, it's hard to try to take cover after already using all your actions. Yeah, but can he be partially behind the cover, so foes get penalty to fire at him and snipers have clear shots when regular rounds start? We haven't rolled initiatives yet :P. Quote from: DigitLninja on 28-02-2012, 13:51:00The first one out the door was number 39 and Well took aim at his leg. Must....resist...from making.....arrow on the knee joke! LolI used to work at Walmart till I took an arrow to the knee...now I work at Target...anyway joking aside I made it, so the people began moving from cover... they need to close the distance to us to have effective shots... though the leader could just fire as many rounds as possible at us and hit us... so he would probably stay in cover. Partial cover is fine. And I'm not bothering with units just because you have the jump on these guys. If things were a little more equal, I'd ask for a roll, but you all get to go first. Ah crap, I thought this posted, but it didn't. Sorry for the delay! Any impressions, folks? 2d6+Modifier is correct, and the modifier caps at 9. I think the only one left is Average. Oh, and Scene and Cessna, please slow down your posts. You two are effectively caught in the combat time as well. Talking, postulating and skill rolls won't really take up any time, though. That's fine by me. :-) Truth be told I wasn't aware were in combat but oh well I know now and after all "Knowing is half the battle. GGG ITII JOOOOOEEEE!!!" ’D ;D ;D You're not technically in combat, but combat is still going on, so while the others can only post once a round, I want to slow you two down to some degree. I'm not big on forcing everyone to follow the initiative numbers in a forum game; it slows things to a crawl. I much prefer the method where everyone posts as they're able, and a round of combat therefore takes a few days instead of weeks. The gang leader now counts as 70 away from the danger building and 80 away from the sniper building. 91 is 40 away from the danger building and 110 away from the sniper building. Just in case anyone needs the info for Range 2 weapons. Mia, you can be free to teleport at the start of your turn, putting you wherever you wish to be and getting the jump on one of the enemies if you like. I'll let you get a +1 to attack this turn for the surprise of appearing out of nowhere combined with that you didn't attack last turn, treating it like an aim. If anyone didn't go yet, you can take two actions, or appear and get the Aim bonus that Mia gets, your decision. I think we got everyone though. Enemies just went, so PCs are up. Just wanted to let everyone know I altered my post just a little bit. If it's possible to do what Kira asked gravy if not oh well I'll edit it out, or she can be told no either way works for me. :-) Thanks for the notice; I'm apt to miss it if people edit. You won't be able to get the entire circle, but you'll be able to get some of it, and telling Theta such is fine. After this combat, I think we should do away with the Shock Value rules, unless anyone objects. Syene, since you haven't really taken an action let, you can make another post this round to go after 31 if you like. Getting two targets with one bullet isn't something I'm going to allow. Good thought though. It was worth a shot... especially since this is mostly a test run. ^_^ Oh, I should mention that for Isaac, 150 meters aren't all that significant with his rifles. They're all range 3, and he has Far shot, so he wouldn't take penalties for range at that distance. But he's taken so many penalties already that I'm not surprised he missed. Ah, my mistake, I was thinking Range 2. But yeah, penalties, miss. Happens. Question; can Leo snipe the leader's armor so to disable the thrusters with well-placed shot which sabotages the thrusters and lets guy fall down instead crashing headlong into wall? Anyways what comes to shock values they are meant for overwhelming damage effect; that target is stunned for 1 round when it occurs. Quote from: AER Dark wail on 01-03-2012, 20:34:45Question; can Leo snipe the leader's armor so to disable the thrusters with well-placed shot which sabotages the thrusters and lets guy fall down instead crashing headlong into wall? Yeah, I'll allow that. Roll it at TN 12; would be higher, but you have multiple applicable Combat Techniques and the guy's not dodging. QuoteAnyways what comes to shock values they are meant for overwhelming damage effect; that target is stunned for 1 round when it occurs. Maybe it's just that these guys are weak, and it won't be an issue with NPCs more set to your level. We'll see. I've always thought shock value was more trouble than it's worth in many cases and not very good for cinematic games. It's not especially hard for even a level 1 weapon to meet a shock value -- realistic, probably, but not much fun. Looks like the combat is winding down. Since I haven't run yet for many of the people in this game, I'd like to request if anyone has constructive criticism. I think everything's going alright so far, but if anyone notices anything, let me know. Particularly, I'm hoping that Theta is okay as a GMPC and doesn't hog the spotlight at all. She's meant to be a range of utility NPCs which in and of themselves wouldn't be worth starting out all together. I'm always leery of GMPCs, though, so let me know if she feels overboard to anyone. I think as far everything went it was a good first run. A little rough around the edges in some places, but that's what tests are for. As for Theta I don't think she seemed to powerful at all. Speaking as one GM to another GMPCs or NPCs are whatever the tools a GM has to help move the story along. Unless you plan for a particular NPC to fight the party you don't need to stat them out. As far as I was concerned with Theta she seemed to function as a sort of data assessment and assistant A.I. if you will. She's kinda reminds me of Cortana from the Halo games. While we the PCs have or own sets of skills and the chips allow for instant data transmission, it doesn't mean anything if we have nothing to transmit across it and Theta plays the part of that information transmitter. So I don't think she's overpowered. Case in point I had Kira asked Theta to leave behind both some surveillance and "kamikaze" drones for the circle. None of the other PCs can do that. So she functions as a sort of Command and Assist A.I. than anything else. :-) I agree with Cessna. Things ran pretty smoothly, and Theta works out just fine. She neatly fills in the gaps without stealing spotlight from anyone. As for shock value and looking it over, it does lean towards having people have high shock and high soul if they don't want to be rendered useless in a fight. It's good for fighting minions or low level opponents, but more cinematic fights with opponents on par or greater will be a bit rough. That being said, I think it could still be useful and does represent those moments when characters take a hit that shakes them. A small tweak maybe is instead of the stunned/unconscious they have listed, how about a -1/-3 penalty instead. So if a person fails their shock roll by their Soul or less, they take a -1 to their rolls on until the end of their upcoming turn for being a little winded from the blow. If they fail by more than their Soul, they take a -3 penalties instead. That way, shock doesn't rule the fight, but it isn't something to sneeze at either. I think it went fairly smoothly. Theta definitely isn't a problem -- most of the time, the things she does are roles better filled by an NPC anyway. I think things went rather smoothly with the combat. As for the Shock value I think that Where's my cow suggestion is an excellent alternative on how to do it.Also, Theta works just fine as she is... Everyone can just teleport out if you like. I have plans for the next scene. Anything you want to do over the next few hours that isn't mission related can be done in the Side Thread, like that shower Mia wants. If people want to keep doing combat, though, I can keep running it once everyone takes their turn. Things are slowing down, so I'll give people one more day to catch up on anything else they want to do. Then I'll fast-forward to the next time everyone meets up with the Director. Giving 3BP for the mission. If you spend any, let me know. Yea I think that posting generally slows down o the weekend... As far as spending my points I'll be buying the Armor we discussed earlier. Quote from: average on 04-03-2012, 16:35:06Yea I think that posting generally slows down o the weekend... As far as spending my points I'll be buying the Armor we discussed earlier. Aye, postings slow down. Anyway trying to catch up, but I feel I was left out from any potential downtime fun consider it was short time. That's why I have the side thread, so that people can still do stuff during downtime without making me force people to wait on the missions. You can continue to post downtime fun there. Ok, understood. Spending 1 XP to add range to Kira's Telepathy. Sorry I faded from existence... Mass Effect 3 Understandable. Welcome back. Indeed ^^ Quote from: DigitLninja on 08-03-2012, 12:12:25sorry I faded from existence... Mass Effect 3Yea I know what you mean. That's the reason I was not around as well. Haven't started on ME3 yet, but I will eventually. Doing Arkham City now. Between Skyrim and Minecraft, I'm very behind on my games. My only worry for the current plan is that most people will be on the sidelines, although thanks to the data chips, you'll all be able to talk, witness things and the like. If people are fine with that, I have no problem with going with the current plan. *Smiles* Let's do it. Should I send my shoulder dragon along? The current plan works just fine... I try to do some catch-ups now. Also need to rework my damn char sheet to make it more legit. I feel like this game is dying. Is it all in my head or do I need to try to ramp things up? Maybe I shouldn't try to let the PCs decide their own method of handling a situation. I think the real problem we ran into is that we've hit a situation where not everyone is going to be useful that's all really. Also, I think there has been a bit much in the way of talking back and forth between the players over States for this latest mission. That's all really, we've got our current plan and that's how we are proceeding so it's all good. Quote from: Cessna on 17-03-2012, 00:10:49 I think there has been a bit much in the way of talking back and forth between the players over States for this latest mission. That's all really, we've got our current plan and that's how we are proceeding so it's all good. Yea what he said... My case I had been busy and forgot check on things here. So my bad :(. Welcome back. Going to try to wait a bit to give everyone who wants in a chance to post, in order to give things more of a synchronicity in regard to each of the other players. If you're interested in being active, even if you're still at ULTRA HQ and just giving advice to the people who are on the island, please keep on posting. I don't want this game to die if I can help it. Hmm... I don't want to be nitpicky, and please don't take this the wrong way, but I'm not sure if Kira can sense Ring with the Sixth Senses she has. In a world where high science and magic both exist and are explicitly different, I have always imagined Ring's powers as definitely falling much more on the scientific side of the continuum than the magical. Of the sources for Attributes suggested in the book, I would probably say they were Supernatural, since they're not explicitly genetic Mutations or Technological in nature (though ultimately they were caused by misuse of technology). This is obviously just my opinion, but I see the dimensional barriers as being an innate part of the multi-verse and not intrinsically having any specific origin, though they can be manipulated by the appropriate powers with any origin. For instance, with her sixth sense for magic, Kira can detect the magical energy from a spell used to tear down the barriers, but probably couldn't have detected the lab accident that gave Ring her powers because that was technological in nature. Andy, you have an opinion on how this should work? Sixth Sense wouldn't pick Ring up, but unless I misunderstand the attribute, Super sense would. It specifically detects things invisible to normal sight, and I'd figure that would apply to extradimensional entities. That said, ULTRA is one of the few entities able to locate Ring technologically, and even they have an effective delay. Most of the world doesn't even know about extradimensional barriers. Ring may come up as the occasional "glitch" on things specifically designed with Super sense the same way we have pictures of ghosts nowadays, but in the same way as nowadays, such images would be overlooked. The way I see it, a Neophilia charged with guarding the world from demons would have some talents in watching through the barriers in order to catch "flitters" who hide just on the other side and peek through. However, rereading Super sense, I'll agree that it's a little iffy, so Scene, if you don't want it to work on Super sense, we can talk with Cessna about some compromise in the way the attribute works. Oh -- I missed the super sense on Kira's character sheet! I would say a "Divine Sight" Super sense should be able to see her -- it seems reasonable that Kira could see her soul or have some ability to hazily see things coming through the barrier between words. On other hand, a Super sense defined as radar or sonar obviously would not see her, as there's nothing physical to bounce the radio or sound waves off of. (way I was thinking it, if she's actively doing various stuff which might cause barrier ripples, she might show up as a momentary weird afterimage effect. The people who are big on such things believe them to be ghosts, even though science doesn't consider them credible, and such study is often considered a waste of time. (Not too dissimilar from the modern day, where we have such photos.) As momentary, most live feed wouldn't even notice it anyway and would just be thought of as a glitch, but ULTRA used this method in order to focus upon you well enough to be able to get a delayed Killian camera. If you don't like this idea, though, it's not set in stone. It's just the idea I had. I think that would be interesting, as long as it doesn't impact my invisibility when I actively want to use it, if that makes sense. Makes sense to me. At absolute worst, I could see someone getting an afterimage of you and knowing what it is, but they'd still have no idea where you currently were, only that you were at X location five minutes ago. If I want to do something like that, I'll discuss it with you before taking the action. Sounds fair. :-) This is the weekend for my city's annual anime convention. As such, posting will slow to a crawl starting Thursday until Sunday. I'll still have Skype via my phone and people who have that can contact me, and I'll receive posts through e-mail, I just won't be responding until I have a computer at hand. Scene, Andy asked me to tell you, "It's a mind role." Go ahead and make the roll, Scene, but it'll be Mind, not Soul. Edited the results in, though it's a pretty awful roll... Yeah, too much interference and varied types of extradimensional energy. Some parts do feel familiarity but there are so many different types that it's hard to get specifics Hey GM question is there anyway for Ring to transmit what she's seeing to other party members for a second opinion? Sure. Generally, the chip reads your thoughts, and you can choose to transmit whatever you want. Presumably our telekinetic has it set up so that Mr. Red, Mr. Green, Mr. Blue and Ms. Black don't register. You can always tell it not to send stuff whenever you want, such as when you're in the shower and don't want everyone seeing what you see. Trying to recognize something through the eyes of someone who already failed to do so, though, will be at -3 unless you get your own eyes on the scene. Yep. The voices in his head stay just voices in his head. Hamm... can you post with what I see once I get close enough to do more than sense the disturbance? I want to give Muse a little bit more time to post for the dragon, but I'll post for everyone in the morning. Only up now because sleep hates me. So, the synopsis for my second novel is nearly complete in my brain. Ordinarily, this would be a cause for celebration as I can completely delve into ChrysChron, but I'm worried about the attempt to work on a novel while simultaneously running a game. I expect I'll need another week or so for polish before I really get into it, and I don't expect to have much trouble finishing up the current mission, but when that's done, I was wondering about the possibility of having someone take over as GM for this game for a bit while I handle the novel. Although I may be able to do both, I had a really hard time trying to handle a decent number of games simultaneously with Chrysler, so I'm trying to give advance warning and look into possibilities before I begin. However, I don't want to wait too long or else the muse dies on the novel. Would someone be interested in taking the reins? Would I be better off just pausing for a few months or so? Or should I just try to plow through both at once? I'd say take some time off of the game to get the novel done. I have watched my wife as she tries to do her writing and I know how hard it is for her, so I can only imagine how hard it would be to both run a game and do a novel at the same time. If nobody wants to take over, I'll just do that, but the side thread will be open for everyone to be able to play around. Sounds like people will be very understanding, which helps my conscience ^_^ Regardless, I won't stop this until after the current mission is done. Oh, and sorry that not everyone was able to fully participate. That may or may not change during this mission, but I'll try to make it up to the people who couldn't this time around. Dude. Writing is important. We can wait. :) I'll throw my two cents in on this one. Speaking from experience I would have to say pausing a game could turn out to be a very bad idea. I've seen several games where they took a pause in the middle of it and for some reason it all just fell apart at the seams. Well, if you take long pause it's better shutdown the game completely than leave it lingers around to have side thread constantly active as it makes game fall off. However miracles do occur, like one game in RPO which ended because the GM couple who ran it got immigration problem (husband was not native US citizen so was sent back to Canada because of mix up in immigration papers which resulted in cancelation of his stay). However, after two years the couple is ready pick up the game again once one of them graduates in June from university when she has time to devote herself to the game again. So question is how long the pause would last? And once pause is over you can send mass PM's to all of us check up can we rejoin the game again? But besides this I am open-minded for someone others pick up reins as GM so long they have motivation to continue and run the game. Andy, do whatever you feel most comfortable doing. I'll be around when you come back. Heh... I'm pretty sure I'm in that game on RPO, AER... :-) Your in Academy of Celestial Learning (Exalted 2e Dot FA)?! Who you were in there :). I am Comet. Yep! ’D In fact, I think you might have been the one who clued me in to Illiquid's existence... I play Reyna Jinan. Hehe, late welcomes then :). Glad I drag some people off from RPO to this side as well (not that it stops you playing games in RPO side but RPO has restricted adult stuff where here it can be more loose). Also plus people in here compared to RPO are nicer (not that there are no nice people in RPO too but have found more jerks in RPO than in E).(realizes how round-about above comments are) Glad people are understanding ^_^ I'll pause it after this mission unless someone wants to take over and write up a mission, which someone can volunteer to do if they want. Well, unless it dies before then, but people have been good about posting for the most part... But I should be fine to finish this mission. AER, going to wait for a bit to let the others post, but I'll answer your questions. The gun cannot point in on itself. It's basically on a huge turret that can spin all over the island, but you could hop into a tiny point where it'd swivel around but couldn't hit you. From there, you could definitely start tearing up some wires. The maid has Rank 1 of Super speed. It'll take her about twenty seconds to reach you if she uses only Super speed and normal climbing capabilities. You have no idea if she's capable of more than that. Slipping into the cannon would definitely slow her down, and she'd have to crawl in to go after you, but you wouldn't be able to hide from her forever that way. It'd buy you a few seconds, but you'd either have to match her super speed or get caught, or keep going onto the other side of the island down the mountain and then attempt to hide. Getting out of her reach is possible with areas with more trees, though, assuming she doesn't have any Jumping or Flight capabilities, Elasticity or similar features. I wrote down their stats before this all started, but you probably already realize that. But let's hold off a bit and let the others post if they want to. Ok, thanks for all the info. At moment, I am considering leap down onto base of cannon and go all my fury rage mode on the maid. As both cannon nor maid has blood in them Leo could safely fight, and he is far away from others, so his scent also would not detect blood (if not some weird reason blood rituals are used empower cannon and maids). Then others are thankful they are off Leo when he likely enters his berserk mode then. I got Superstrenght in rank 2 so if maid only got 1 rank Leo may have fighting chance. You may want to use your data chip and discuss the plan with the others. Ok, treat that present post where Leo ponders things now actively sends signal from his data chip and says; "Do I get permission from base enter class I fury rage mode against the maid? I doubt I can evade her long as feline. Oh, also I am at base of the cannon. I cannot chew wires off as small feline but in fury class I mode I can decorate base with torn off wires." One dogie. Heading off to bed. Folks are free to respond IC. Ring and Cessna, could I get Mind rolls from each of you, please? Something is happening on your end. You may attempt to type up a more vivid description of how you're watching matters if you want to try to get a little more info than just the roll would give. Going to give Mia a bit more time, but Average can always just throw down a second combat attack, so don't want to wait too much longer. Alright Andy I gave you the rolls you need, I also added in a second roll for Occult specializing in Rituals. Quote from: Andy on 08-04-2012, 00:57:48Going to give Mia a bit more time, but Average can always just throw down a second combat attack, so don't want to wait too much longer.EEK... Looks like my post got eaten. Will get another post up ASAP. No worries, Average. People, if you can list damage with your rolls so that I don't have to constantly jump back and forth to read up on everything and remember each one of your powers, I'd appreciate it. I'll give Muse a bit more time, maybe a day or so, then post and let him take a double post after if he hasn't posted by then. I might not be able to post 'til Monday. Please don't let me hold you up. Okay. You can take two actions on your post then. Sorry for lack of details in my post regarding DMG, I was not in my home comp and so no access to BEST PDF file to check what exactly leaping attack did to add to the attack and re-check the DMG formula to be sure my math would be right. So, I roll 2d6 with modifiers vs maid's attack correct? 2d6+DCV, add in the modifiers for Leaping, and her Flexible subtracts from your roll as well. Hmm, ok. I remember flexible subtracted -1 per rank from defense. A question though; if I get injured, I likely go blood rage from that, so what would be target number to 'resist' going frenzy? Hamm...blind fury -4...let's say TN 20, resisted Soul + Mind Shield + 2d6 Wait....you do know I have 4 as my soul value? So even if I roll Nat 12 with soul stat roll and get 16 as possible max. TN 20 would mean I would not make the check :P. I do not have mind shield attribute either. Meh...okay, TN 15, you can spend your EP to get bonuses as normal, and any amount you fail by will determine how long you're in the fury. Ok, how much EP for +1 bonus for such check? 10 points per +1 bonus, with a maximum bonus equal to your Soul stat. Details on Dramatic Feats on page 148. I think there was a rule in the book that allowed for PCs to expend I believe it was 50 energy points to negate an action. Now without double-checking this I can't really be sure so don't go quoting me on it and if someone finds out differently then please correct me on it. :-) Quote from: Cessna on 17-04-2012, 03:38:52 I think there was a rule in the book that allowed for PCs to expend I believe it was 50 energy points to negate an action. Now without double-checking this I can't really be sure so don't go quoting me on it and if someone finds out differently then please correct me on it. :-)That's also page 148, called Changing the Plot. It requires GM permission, but if somebody really wants to do that, you can always PM me about it. So it's been nearly five days since someone posted in the main thread and nearly three since the post was made on IOC thread. I'm just wondering what the hold up is? Edit:I'm a dunce. I forgot an ability that Kira had, so I went ahead and posted. Cessna was a aka. No idea. I just figured the game was dying. My games tend to do that. Nope I am still here. WSA just been busy at work. I'll get a post up ASAP. That and I was waiting to see if Leo had actually got hit or not so I could figure if I should run or not seeing as he could go into berserker mode. Sorry. It was one of those weeks for me. Quote from: Wheresmycow on 21-04-2012, 00:43:18Sorry. It was one of those weeks for me. Happens. Welcome back. Posts of just chatting and such are fine in order to relay information, but I tend to pause once an action has been taken in order to make sure everyone's on the same page. I forget if I said that before, but that's why I only had Theta respond to Isaac. Zaer, if you posted for Leo, it didn't show. I think this game is dead. Do people want to know how much I had planned out? Admittedly not very far. Sure. I wouldn't mind knowing myself. Putting it in a spoiler tag. If you have Notified e-mailing, you won't want to read this. Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide The mind reading attempt would open Kira up to the floodgates. The creatures are benevolent and docile, but strongly predisposed to learning EVERYTHING, so they'd want to probe through her mind as soon as contact was made. It wouldn't be immediately clear that they weren't evil, but if it was stuck out peacefully, contact would be established. Otherwise, the PCs could just destroy them, and they'd be helpless to stop the PCs while trapped in the circle. Each of the maids contained a fraction of the power of the demon, making Mr. Chosen powerful enough to control all the maids himself as well as being the real cause of his newfound vitality. Each destroyed maid would send that power straight back to Chosen, so if they were all destroyed, the demon would break free of him and would be an incredibly difficult battle. It would be possible to incapacitate the maids without outright destroying them, such as by shattering every limb but leaving the head and chest intact. I didn't have too much planned beyond that. My games don't last long enough to make it worthwhile to try to have any real plot. Quote from: Andy on 21-04-2012, 04:09:50Zaer, if you posted for Leo, it didn't show.Oh, darn it :P. Seems post got eaten. Anyway posted and then got busy and thought it OK take the pair of weeks break as it takes time for combat progress in pop.

ULTRA - OOC Thread|rating:2.0

Star Wars - Padawan Training (Koibito & mj2002)

The cantina in the only major settlement of Antoine was alive and bustling with shady characters of all types. The planet was located in the outer rim so the hold that the Supremacy, the ruling council of Supreme Chancellors, had over it was minimal and as such, was a nest for all sorts of unruly kinds. Most namely of all of course was Bounty Hunters; most Bounty Hunters weren't just that, they came from all walks, but their path earned the kind of reputation that this place thrived on. Random assortments of people of all species' gathered to drink and unwind, some completely random in style while some wore the same clothing or armor - mostly due to some bounty hunting groups in the area that used the Cantina as something to do after work. Three such men gathered at a table with drinks in hand. They were dressed in light armor upon their chests and shoulders over long sleeve tunics and pants that fed into boots, blaster strapped to each of their hips and all three of them younger. Two of them were Human while another was a Zebra and the three were having a drink before a job of sorts judging by the words they carelessly spouted, clearly not taking anything but the payment seriously." Did you hear about what we're after?" one of the Human males asked the others." I don't like asking questions" waved off the Zebra." What is it?" asked the other human. The first grinned with the knowledge he had over the other two, clearly excited about it, "I hear it's a Force... thing" said the Human. The other two looked to him with questioning and unimpressed looks upon their faces. A 'thing' wasn't enough of a gossip to rouse their interest, the 'Force' part of it was a unique thing, if true." A... Thing" the Zebra questioned." Yeah, you know, a thing, a relic or something" explained the first in a whisper, "Jedi, Sith, all that stuff" he told them. The two snickered at this, it wasn't impossible to believe such a thing, but it was a rare case, anything to do with Force users that was. Even more to think that an item relating to either of them was a plausibility in such an area. Since long ago the Jedi and Sith were unheard of save for a few sightings, but the reward for the head of a Force Sensitive or anyone carrying a Lightsaber of 50,000 Credits minimum was real enough to keep anyone hoping to see one of those fabled warriors." Can you imagine the payout on that?" asked the Zebra, amused by the concept. The second Human looked confused, "but then why are we being paid to go to it, I thought we sent a few guys there not long ago, don't we have it?" he asked. The first nodded, "apparently we were hired to get it first, but we can't get to it so they're sending someone"." Guard duty..." the Human grumbled." But handsomely paid guard duty" chuckled the Zebra. The three agreed and laughed away the upcoming work day, finishing their drinks before heading out for the job they so carelessly ranted about. They took a speeder and went off to the north, towards the ruins they were to be stationed at. The ruins were just that, old and decrepit, the slightest proof that those who believed in the Force existed whether they still did or not. It lay out of the way in a deep forest, hidden from all being why it was not explored until a bit ago and being why the object wasn't discovered until recently. The terrain was a bit rough but open plains surrounded the ruins creating a clearing in the forest where it was located. Not much was even known about it, but it all was displayed and explained to yet another who was to be sent to the area for the same rumor of such an object, specifically a Holocrine. (at the table next to the three men sat young Nova Shekel. At first, she had just been winding down from a long day of surveillance and stalking. Her target had been a low level bounty hunter, who himself was just making his way in the cruel galaxy by taking whatever job he could find and working hard to earn his credits. It was a training exercise, and Nova hoped she wouldn't have to kill the guy in the end, it seemed like he was falling on hard times. His jobs were plentiful, but dangerous and didn't pay too well. Nova did her best to follow his every move, record his steps and devise intervention plans. She had run one of their plans through her ship's on board simulator today, and it had gone pretty well. The guy had died within seconds without any outside interference or notice. It seemed to be a rather easy subject that she'd been assigned to, which she had complained about at the onset, but she came to realize the importance along the way. Her first few plans failed miserably in the simulator, and it demonstrated the fact that although you might take out your target, retrieve your information, or otherwise complete the mission's objectives, an operation might still fail spectacularly if your cover was blown. An open display of Force use, or even worse, a lightsaber was extreme dangerous. It was to be avoided at nearly any cost, else it might result in having her picture on the bounty hunter terminals for the rest of her life, with many credits for those who would deliver her head. As such, she sat at the table with the hood covering most of her head in order to avoid being recorded by any security holocameras. When she was about to take off though, she overheard three men sitting not far from her, and what they had to saw was of such interest to her, that she postponed her plan to take off, and instead tried to listen in on their conversation. Force, relic, Jedi, Sith, all words that speak volumes. She saw the men leaving their table and decided this was worth investigating. When she stepped outside, she saw the two humans and the zebra head to their speeders. She quickly climbed on her own and followed the three at a reasonable distance. Once out the city limits and onto the plains, she let the distance between her and the three increase even further, just to be safe. After a good drive, a forest appeared in the distance and Nova had to close the distance between her and her targets to make sure she wouldn't lose them in the denser parts of the forest. Antoine was widely known for its temples, but most had been thoroughly investigated and cleaned up. The one that came into view after a long and slow drive through this forest, seemed to have been recently discovered though. As the men entered the clearing, she stayed at the edge of the forest and make sure she remained out of sight. She shut down her speeder, parked it against a tree and took out her electrobinoculars. Three speeders were parked at the ruins of the temple, and she saw the two humans loitering about a little. Quietly, she kept a look on the place, not knowing that someone was silently creeping up on her from behind. They did not notice that they were being followed for a good while, speeding along the plains of yellow grass as they left the city and headed for the thicket that lead into the forest ahead. Speeding into the forest the three men still didn't actually notice, in fact, far too late did they notice as the temple was in sight from the more dense forest area did they catch the sound of her speeder far behind theirs. A soft, subtle nod came from the Zebra as he was the first to think of something to respond to their follower with - the other two nodded back, and they continued on as normal until they got closer. The Zebra sped up and parked his speeder quicker than the others yet seeming as they all got there at the same time as the alien Bounty Hunter hurried off into the woods. As such, the two Humans went to the entrance casually and stood out front for a bit, giving something for whoever was tailing them to look at while their friend snuck around. Watching the speeder of the one after them stop a bit off and hurry up to a tree with a pair of binoculars, the Zebra slowly went around, making sure not to make so much as a stick crack under his boot as he closed in. He noticed the thinner figure though didn't assume a gender outright as who was to say it wasn't a male of a thinner race; but it didn't matter anyway as whoever it was about to be dead. He reached for his blaster at his hip, swiftly but carefully pulling it forth. The Zebra aimed for her head at point-blank range and held his finger to the trigger. Honestly it was probably not the best means of attack as still the holster of a blaster wasn't the quietest thing and even more so was the soft residual hum of the battery pack in one such weapon either. Trying to be quick, the thought of it escaped him and though a bit reckless given their line of work, he aimed and pulled the trigger, unaware of the abilities of just who it was he was firing at to kill. (faintly sensed something moving behind her, but first passed it off as some distant wildlife. As it approached though, she realized that there was something more threatening than just a distant Gaul. Just in time, she pinned around and swung at the approaching figure. To her surprise, it was the zebra who was already standing within striking distance. Even more so, she just hit his arm that held a blaster. Her reflexes were far superior to his, but his proximity and blaster startled her. The blaster went off as she hit him, firing into the ground. Her sudden movement undid her hood, showing her long multicolored hair and identifying herself as a female. The two got into a struggle and whilst Nova had reflexes that were superior to the zebra, his weight and strength gave him enough power to prevent her from quickly overpowering him. As the two humans closed the distance quickly using their speeders, Nova grabbed for her lightsaber in order to force an advantage. She missed and grabbed again and again, until she realized it wasn't where it was supposed to be. She looked to her side where it had gone, a moment which the zebra took to knock her clean to the side of the head. Furthermore, she fell to the ground and the world began spinning in front of her eyes, eventually turning black. The Zebra was surprised to say the least to find not only his dispositioned blaster firing past his target, but that it was done by that of a seemingly human girl. Her hood flew off and revealed her youthful face to him, surprising him enough to let her attack - he had weight over her speed however, so he didn't simply take her attack easily. Seeing their companion fail at his silent strike, they approached quickly to help, riding in on their speeders at the girl. It seemed though that this was more than enough of a distraction as she seemed to reach for a weapon that was no longer there. The Zebra took this opportunity quickly and with a strong swing he collided the butt of his blaster to her head and watched as she fell unconscious to the ground. Panting slightly as he calmed down, the Zebra looked to the unconscious girl first, then to his friends as they rode up. It seemed they universally knew what to do so while two of them picked her up, the Zebra went in ahead to make sure no one would jump out with any questions, he just wanted to get her in. Now that she was alive and not one he killed on sight, they could ask her some questions and as such he found himself thanking whatever was out there that she had some skill in her before coming here as for all they knew she could be a spy or at least working for someone else. Finding a nice little hold to take her into, the two Humans dragged her in. It was a sealed meditation room with a still working barrier, it was no holding cell, but it would do. Pulling her into it, the first thing they decided to do was to check her for weapons - she was wearing many layers and though the three were not above enjoying a show, the more prominent danger was what she could be hiding. Carefully they started by undoing her top layer thick belt, tossing it to the side quickly and next working the over layer brownish cloak she wore. Hoisting it over her head, hood and all they again cast it aside and revealed what seemed to be a vest underneath. Unzipping it was a simple task as was pulling it from her arms leaving a long sleeved tunic and a belt with thigh armor. First of course they undid the belt, one human holding her as the Zebra undressed her and the other putting aside her articles as he checked for more weapons. Next was her gauntlets and gloves so that they could get at her Tunic next; they pulled it off of her to reveal the common undergarments of the age - bandages that slightly bound and fully covered her breasts. Leaving that for the moment, he next took the belts off her legs and pulled off her boots leaving the girl in only her bandages, leggings, and whatever undergarment lay under those. With little remorse the Zebra made quick work of pulling her leggings from her before he pulled apart her bandaging - too much of a hassle to remove fully he settled to separate them pulling them above and below her breasts to reveal them before patting the rest down to make sure nothing was hidden. It was finally after this that they took her leggings and panties from her, leaving the girl fully exposed to them which made up for having to take in a prisoner. Grabbing some twine from one of the speeders, the more ambitious of the humans who spoke aloud of their objective hurried back in and tied her arms above her head and shot a hook into the ceiling of the room, suspending her from it on her knees. Next they tied her legs as well, separate but to the back wall to prevent her from kicking when she woke from this little nap. They went through her clothing again finding nothing of interest besides some Credits and stashed the articles semi-neatly in the corner of the room, putting the barrier up as they waited. Not long after she'd been stripped down and tied up, Nova awoke with a severe headache. She lifted her face, which had been hanging forward and was mostly covered up by her hair. It didn't take her long to realize what sort of situation she'd found herself in. Looking down, she saw her nude body and felt that her legs could hardly move. Looking up, she saw a hook into the ceiling, from which her hands were tied down. Out of reflex, she pulled on the restraints, which immediately started to give way. She stopped pulling quickly as she realized the three men from before were standing not far away from her. She had to conceal the fact that she was able to break through her restraints with relative ease, for now anyway. Furthermore, she looked around the room and concluded that the three hunters had simply taken her inside the temple, inside some sort of sealed off room. Furthermore, she didn't know precisely what sort of barrier it was, but it could prove to be very difficult to break through, even for her. Through the barrier, she eyed at the men on the other side." Please let me go!", she pleaded. "I was just curious about the relic you guys talked about," she said in all honesty. The three men watched on as she stirred, eying her body as well as she woke from her forced slumber. She started to beg for release, pleading with them with what she was doing there. Of the three, the human that wasn't so quick to talk aloud of Force related things stepped forward; he was a man of average height, thinner build, and messy, short black hair. "Sorry, Miss, but that's just a bit too convenient" he told her, "even if it were true we can't let you go simply on what you know" he explained calmly as he leaned against the wall looking into the barrier at her nude form. The Zebra was of a more muscular build, and he lacked the tribal tattoo's of some of his people leaving his skin a natural light tan, a black, short Mohawk centered between his horns. "So tell us." started the Zebra, "who do you work for?" he asked in a threatening tone. They clearly didn't believe she wasjustthere out of curiosity alone, that even if she was, she still must work for someone who would bring them some trouble. She listened and watched carefully as the two talked and looked at her. She quickly decided that it was the human who addressed her as Miss that she was going to direct her responses to. He seemed reasonably well-mannered, though he was clearly checking her out. In this situation though, she couldn't really fault him for that. She felt his eyes travel up and down her nude form. From her colored long hair, that stood out a lot, particularly when she was out of her clothes, his gaze slowly went down to her pretty face. Her face featured attractive lines, and she wore some eyeliner to accentuate her eyes. Lower still, the three of them focused their attention to her well-formed chest, which wasn't broad, but clearly well-trained. Her breasts were perky, and nearly considered small. Her areolas were very small, and formed small circles around her nipples, which made her breasts appear larger than they actually were. Further along her flat and well toned stomach, they looked between her legs. Just above her slit, her skin featured a small patch of neatly trimmed hair, much like a landings trip. Her nether lips seemed small, but it could also have been caused by the perspective that the three men had. They couldn't see much detail from their distance and when they looked down even further, all that remained were her knees resting on the cold stone floor." I work for no one, really!", she said. She made the tone of her voice sound desperate and a bit scared, trying to make a reasoned expression to go along with her somewhat dramatic plea. "Please, I was just curious. You guys talked about a relic, and I figured that must've been worth a lot. That's all I know." She looked at each of them, looking both innocent and sad at the same time, but making eye contact mainly with the human she'd earlier set her sights on. "I won't tell anyone, I don't even know what you're after, here!" She had quite the body; cute smaller breasts with perky, small nipples, a perfectly trained abdomen and lovely legs that lead up to a neatly trimmed slit. The three took notice quite clearly of her form as they continued to speak to her. The third finally spoke, he had thicker, brown hair, and he was taller than the other human with an average build. He chuckled as he looked over her, "well even if that were the truth, which we know isn't, I mean look at that body - you were clearly trained for something, that isn't a simple worker's body" the Human started, "you still know where this place is and that's just a little too dangerous" explained the brown haired man slowly to their captive. The black haired Human spoke up, "maybe we don't have to kill you" he said, "but we can't let you go... Right now at least" the Human went on. "If it ends up being worth our time we can just keep you here until the job's done..." he grinned, looking to the other two with clearly a devious idea in mind. "Sounds reasonable, doesn't it?" he asked everyone present before looking back to the lovely shaped face of their captive. The other two chuckled, seeming to get his meaning and enjoying the idea he proposed to them, all three were curious of her reaction to such an insinuation. She took a good look at the other human, who finally spoke up. She deemed him to be the most dangerous of the three. The other human might be too careful, whilst the zebra was too aggressive. It was something Abrams often suffered from, she had learned. When they continued talking, she tried making excuses. However, when the conversation turned into a new direction, she fell silent. "I... I...", she stuttered as they looked at her hungrily. Nova was trained to withstand pain and torture, but she hadn't experienced the real thing. These three men obviously were planning on taking advantage of her, she realized as she reassessed the situation. She lowered her head and looked at the ground, her hair covering most of her face again. She was unsure how much she'd be able to stand, but if she was lucky, they would either leave the barrier down here, or take her elsewhere where she might be able to overpower them and escape. The situation wasn't pretty, but it might be her way out. She remained silent after the men made it clear what their intentions were. "Then it's agreed, Miss" the black haired one grinned, "you don't have to die if you just let watching you be worth our while" he said with a wide grin. He looked to the three of them, pausing for a second in thought before he looked back to her. "At least one of us needs to stay out here though, just in case" he said to them, prepared to settle it with some sort of game if need be who got to go first. It was the Zebra who spoke up, volunteering for keeping watch first, "you two go first if I get her myself after" he told them, grinning at the girl. The other two smirked and nodded in agreement, who could argue with being able to go first anyway?" Oh yeah, I forgot he has a thing for Human girls, don't he?" the brown haired one spoke. He reached over and opened the barrier, the two Humans stepping in and the Zebra closing the barrier behind them. It seemed things would not go as she had hoped. The two approached her, taking off their gloves. One knelt in front of the girl and took handfuls of her tight, perky breasts, groping and squeezing them roughly. The other, the brown haired one, moved behind her and sat there, reaching around and gliding his hand over her tight abdomen, admiring her fitness before he slid slowly over her trimmed pubis, touching her clit softly as his other hand went to her backside, groping her ass and looking to see if it was just as perfect as the rest of her tight, athletic body. Nova looked up right away when the barrier was opened, but to her dismay, the zebra stayed behind and closed the barrier again. This really wasn't her lucky day, she thought. Her first chance of escape was being denied, and she'd have to suffer through this ordeal, or risk death. She focused her mind on attempting to block out the sensations and feelings she was to be enduring soon. It was the main part of her strategy against torture and excessive abuse, and she had a feeling she would be needing this plenty in the coming moments. With her psychological defenses not entirely in position yet, she couldn't help but shiver as she felt their hands on her skin. She looked up, straight in the eyes of the black haired man when he groped her. She winced when the other one felt between her legs, clearly not enjoying this. Furthermore, she looked pleadingly at the man, who she figured was still her best shot, in case this was a strategy she was going to employ. Behind her, the one she'd labeled as most dangerous was letting his hand roam across her rather tight ass. Not a bit of fat was to be discovered there, as she was in near perfect shape. She closed her eyes and prepared for the worst, as she figured that was most certainly still to come. Despite his polite demeanor, the black-haired man was not one to be so kind with such a deal presented before him. She looked to him with such a pleading, look, but it was not met with pity, merely he sunk down and suddenly took one of her tight, perky nipples into his mouth and sucked roughly upon it. The other Human played rapidly with her clit but also lowered a finger to tease at her opening, pressing himself lightly against her perfectly toned rear, groping softly at the soft flesh, impressed by her figure as he toyed with her. Outside, the Zebra chuckled, enjoying the sight of such a perfect specimen of Human being so violated in what could be considered a sacred place by those who believed in that stuff. Finally, Nova managed to draw enough power from the Force to complete her mental shield against the ongoing violations of her body. From now on, she figured she'd be relatively as ease, save for the physical sensations. Those she could not block, and she involuntarily let out a moan as soon as she felt the stronger human explore between her legs. The rubbing of her clit was making her excited, even when she didn't want to be. Her body twitched sometimes, a signal that her mental barrier was having trouble holding out. Drawing more power from the Force, she was able to keep her balance. Suddenly, she felt the man behind her entering her womanhood. Not with his finger, but the distinct form of a member was penetrating her now. She gasped as her body arched, reacting to the imminent sensation. In her head, she held out, though barely. She remained quiet after she got used to the motions, which must have been a little disappointing to her attackers. If they liked a girl who screamed and resisted roughly, they weren't getting any today. The stronger human didn't seem to bother though, and it wasn't long before he was panting heavily. Her body was rocked back and forth as the man's cock slid back and forth inside her. If this was all they would do to her, she'd hold out. Nova was assured of this, though the prospect of having to take on the zebra worried her, he seemed to look at her more hungrily than the two humans combined. Perhaps that was his weakness as well. The twitches and moans they pulled from her body were satisfying enough for them. Despite the willingness to take her like this, they weren't monsters, they didn't much care to hear her scream or struggle, they were just looking for some satisfaction in these times of harsh work, and the brown haired human behind her would do just that. He unzipped his pants slowly and pulled forth his stiff member, he was of average size and girth, and he was eager to play with their captive. Aiming himself under her, he slowly pushed into the young girl, getting himself all the way in for her athletic ass to rest on his lap before suddenly he started pumping into her. He panted and moaned, pushing himself deep into her tight womanhood with each thrust. The other Human, the more polite one played with her for a bit, biting her nipple softly and groping her tight breasts. She seemed skilled at blocking it all out and that was just fine for them. After playing with her a bit, that man stood and pulled out his member which was about the same size as the other Human more or less. Not only his own cock, but he pulled out his blaster as well and pushed his tip to her lips as he pushed the barrel to her head. "Miss... I'd hate it if you tried to struggle, y'know?" he nudged her with his gun as he forced his cock into her mouth, grabbing her ponytail with the other hand. His meaning was clear, if she tried to harm him, she'd be dead." Hurry up and finish, I want my turn" groaned the human as he started thrusting slowly into her mouth, "and don't cum in her either" he demanded as he pulled her hair playfully." Y-yeah yeah... Of" growled the one inside her as he pumped faster, trying to finish quick as they probably didn't have much time to fuck around with her. Faster and harder he fucked her, pumping into her tight pussy, his cock throbbing as he got close to the edge. The man pinched her clit lightly and groaned, smacking her ass before suddenly he pulled out. Stroking himself to orgasm he groaned, spraying thick ropes of seed onto her tight ass and lower back, shot after shot finishing him off as he shot it onto her pale skin. Hurrying up his orgasm, the man groaned and stood back, panting as the other pulled from her mouth and knelt in front of her again. Without warning in a rush, he spread her legs and forced himself into her, moaning at how tight she was though not surprised with this kind of body. Grabbing her hips he began pumping into her, trying to hurry up but enjoy himself as well, fucking her harshly as he looked into her eyes with a grin, wondering if he could get some kind of expression from her as he nailed her. She opened her eyes and looked at the human in front of her, who now trained his blaster on her as well as his member Meekly, she nodded and opened her mouth, hoping that being cooperative would get this situation over with sooner rather than later. She held up rather well, considering the situation, and she began contemplating on alternative escape routes. Without her lightsaber, she'd have a tough time breaking out of the room, so the humans and the zebra remained key to her escape. As it stood now though, they were likely just going to leave her in this place after the zebra was done with her, which was a prospect she didn't enjoy. She'd have to get through to one of them, and someone change their plan. Suddenly, her mental shield was breached when the brown haired man pinched her clit. She groaned and closed her eyes, not wanting to show the man in front of her that they were getting to her. To her relief, she felt him pull out of her, after which her lower back was decorated with several strands of sticky cum. She tried to compose herself, but the man in front of her wasn't waiting around for her to be ready, and her eyes shot open when she felt him take a hold of her body and press his member inside of her. She looked at him angrily, and barely managed to keep herself from spitting in his face. With her defenses lowered, the motions were quickly having an effect on her. Whilst at first she moaned just to pretend to be affected, the sounds she was producing now were genuine. Her mind started spinning a little, and she felt control slipping away. Just when she was about to lose it though, he pulled out and got on his feet. Within seconds, she felt him spray against her face and chest. She closed her eyes to avoid being hit there and endured the embarrassment. After he finished, she opened her eyes again and looked at him. Her gaze was composed again, having regained strict control of her emotions. Behind the barrier, an impatient zebra wanted to have his turn. He couldn't wait any longer. Pumping his rod deep into the Human woman, the black haired man groaned as he neared the edge with some effort to finish quicker. Soon that moment would come just after he grinned at her angered look, the sight arousing to him. Pulling out, he stood and stroked himself to orgasm, painting her face and breasts with his seed now and groaning as he came all over the girl. Coming to a finish, he panted and let the last of it drip onto her before putting himself away and stepping aside. The brown haired man stayed in the cell but the black haired one left and the Zebra entered, the Human quickly shutting the barrier behind him. Slowly he approached, unzipping himself like the two who quite literally came before, only this time his size was a bit above average to say the least. As a Zebra, he was bigger than his Human companions both in length and girth, it was quite incredible by Human standards but otherwise looked no different from the male organ. Kneeling down, the Zebra grinned widely as he forced his immense cock into her tight womanhood and grabbing her hips, he began pounding roughly into her, growling as he raped his Human captive. As the Zebra entered, Nova couldn't help but swallow. This wouldn't be as easy as the two humans had been. Abrams were known for their ferocity, and it seemed like she was about to find out precisely what they were capable of doing. For now, she was rather relieved with how things had turned out so far. All things considered, she could have been in worse shape. Yes, she had been captured, lost her lightsaber and speeder, fell in a fight to a Zebra who wasn't even force sensitive, was taken captive, stripped and now raped, but it could have been way worse. When she reflected on the situation though, she did come to the realization that she messed up quite badly. How could she be a Jedi if these thugs could best her? At least, she hadn't been beaten, shot or killed. Her thoughts were rudely interrupted as the Zebra took advantage of her. He was much larger than the humans had been, and clearly had no regard for her whatsoever. She tried hard to remain unaffected, but it was an exhausting task. Soon, she was forced to endure both the physical and the mental punishment. It's resulting in loud groaning, grunting and even moaning on her side as the large member forced its way inside of her, retreated and then pounded back into her slit, seemingly without much effort on his side. She lowered her head in defeat, not able to look him in the eyes or pretend she didn't care. It was a tough experience to live through and she felt miserable. She realized what is must be like for all the poor girls and women who had none of the strengths that she had, but were still at the mercy of males like this Zebra and his friends. She wouldn't be able to get away from this ordeal unscathed, she concluded. Furthermore, she would suffer mental scars which would prove a significant challenge to her future as a Jedi. Tears began to form at her eyes, whilst she tried hard to regain her composure. If this went on for much longer, she'd succumb to feelings of hatred to them. It would be the wrong path for her to take. Lucky for her, they didn't have all the time in the world to play with her, they did have a job to do after all. The Zebra groaned and grinned as he heard her sounds, knowing he was breaking her but still he was quite impressed with her ability to take such a size, such an experience as she had and to not be completely broken by it. Admirable as it was, it didn't stop him from fucking into her roughly, growling as he forced himself close to the edge as soon as he could though it wouldn't hinder his enjoyment of it at all. Harder and harder he went, clawing lightly at her hips as he ravaged her tight pussy, his member throbbing as he pumped into the girl. Soon he would finish too, his orgasm coming with a loud growl as he too pulled out of her and suddenly blasted a rather thick load of cum onto her stomach and pussy. Shot after shot sprayed out, the Zebra also cumming far more than his companions, his alien spunk shooting onto her as he growled at a finish, grinning at her as he stood and chuckled, zipping up as the three looked down at their handiwork proudly and fully satisfied as they were having used her up for their own pleasure. All three chuckling, they left the room and gave one last look at the Human girl before turning on the barrier and starting deeper into the Temple in a hurry. So much so was it that the two didn't notice the black haired man lagging behind, looking at her a bit longer. His gaze though was not of someone victorious but of slight remorse; they all knew what they did was wrong, but it seemed that he was the only one who cared. With a moment of hesitation, he sighed softly and shook his head, not able to believe what he was about to do. With a quick whisper, "please just don't kill them...", he hit the button and deactivated the barrier, hurrying to catch up with the others. (felt humiliated, used and dirty. Her morale had received a blow, and it kept her down. She managed to hold back her tears, but inside she felt broken. These were just ordinary thugs, she realized. If they could do this to her, how cruel was the rest of the galaxy? Lost in her thoughts and sorrow, she didn't pay much attention to the leaving trio, until one of them turned back. Right away, she looked up at him, her gaze piercing through his mind. He has good in his heart, which was the uplifting information that she needed. "You won't regret it," she replied silently. Much to her delight and disbelief, he opened the barrier for her. How he knew that this was enough for her to escape, she did not know. After all, she was still tied up properly. At present, she couldn't care less though. He was giving her a way out, and she wasn't going to find fault in him. His deeds would be remembered when their paths would cross again. It might be soon, it might be in the distant future, it might be never. But she would not forget. After the hunters had disappeared, she waited a little longer just to make sure her escape would remain interrupted. Then, seemingly without effort, she pulled on her restraints, which caused the hook to come crashing down. She rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding it as it fell next to her on the stone floor. Able to move her hands now, she released herself in little time and quickly collected her belongings, which the hunters had conveniently left for her. Even the credits, which was surprising. What sort of people were these three, she began to question. Ordinary thugs would take the prize, have their way, execute her and then recover anything of value, she theorized. Not these three though, which meant that she'd have to be more careful around them. They had already bested her once, it could not happen again. Hastily, she put on her gear, leaving the bandages on the floor as they would take too long to put on. Back in her outfit, she felt far more secure. Whilst the thugs might not have noticed, the middle layer of her gear was designed from special material which was able to withstand basic blaster fire. It wasn't much for protection, but it served its purpose very well. It was light and effective, and being able to take a few shots could mean the difference between life and death. She made her way out of the room and began exploring the temple. Following the light, she tried to find the quickest way out of the stone temple, in order to assess the overall situation. Did they have her speeder? What about her lightsaber? She doubted they had found it, or they wouldn't be so careless with her. Deeper in the temple was where the commotion was all happening. Down a few turning corridors was a much larger room, the doors all forced open on the way to it as if they had been blown in to get to the goal, a goal which still lay within a glowing blue pyramid shaped barrier which was surrounded by pillars. Inside was a glowing object, a bit difficult to see from the distance of the door but throughout the room tents and little camps were set up around it. It seemed as if tools had been tried out on the barrier for a good while but from the fact that the barrier still stood, it was clear none of them worked. Many gathered here, Bounty Hunters all wearing the same gear as they were from the same guild were strewn about the room, a dangerous number if they were skilled like the three she had her run in with seemed to be. If the woman intended to continue her investigation of the object they were guarding, she most definitely would have a fight on her hands. (she had finally made her way to the exit of the tunnel, her eyes had to adjust to the sunlight. She faced away for a while so she could get used the light, when she spotted something in the corner of her view. Camouflage netting, quite a sizable amount too. If she'd had ridden past on her speeder, she wouldn't have seen it. Any patrolling air speeders or small starships capable of atmospheric flight would have flown over and just see a clearing in the forest and some rocks. She hurried over and uncovered a large amount of gear and speeder bikes. There were dozens of them, more than she could count in a few seconds. A stockpile of speeders or a gathering of people? She looked across the clearing again, and recognized the area from where she'd been spying on the two humans. After she arrived at the spot, it didn't take her long to find her own speeder bike, just where she left it. It seemed that the three who had captured her earlier were sloppy and had merely focused on her. She pushed her hands into the storage compartment, and breathed out a heavy sigh of relief when she felt her lightsaber. She attached it on her belt and pulled her skirt over it, hiding it from view. Furthermore, she armed herself with a blaster as well and then made her way back to the temple. It took her quite a while to find the room where the hunters had gathered, as the temple was dark inside and it seemed to be a maze to those who weren't familiar with the layout. At one point, she saw flickering lights and shimmering shadows and followed them, eventually to the center room of the temple. As she got closer, she began hearing noises and chattering, various sounds that indicated that she was heading in the right direction. She gazed into the room carefully, her eyes widening at the large assembly of people. They were geared up properly, she noted. Whilst bounty hunters didn't have the reputation they had before, when Sith and Jedi still reigned, they were still a challenge. With her lightsaber, she could easily take down the three that had captured her earlier, but a group this large was way more than she could handle. As she edged closer, she suddenly saw the relic that had drawn the crowds. A bright blue pyramid shaped force field shielded the relic from the outside world. She recognized the layout immediately and was able to understand its importance. If she got her hands on this artifact, that would lead to a great deal of respect from other Jedi, as well as her teacher. If only it wasn't surrounded by so many hunters. Carefully, she slipped inside the room, creeping into the nearest shadow she saw. She was trying to see if she could just blend into the crowd, but she feared that her appearance would stand out far too much. After a while, she spotted the three from before. Those might be of use to her, she figured. But how? The force field pyramid was situated in the middle of a circle carved into the stone ground. Some Bounty Hunters loitered around it, marveling at what could be inside as other simply camped out. Around the engraved circle, four stone pillars rose high above them all that each had their own ancient symbols, one on each, upon them. Of the group of Bounty Hunters the three that the girl encountered earlier could be seen a bit far off from the center. They were lazing about having been satisfied earlier, and they had a little campsite set up where they rest. The black haired one was sitting up, drink in hand when his eyes crossed her, and he nearly dropped his canteen when he saw the girl sneaking around the area. Perhaps she was looking for a way out, at least he hoped, he really did not care for the idea of a fight. For now, he watched, subtly keeping track of what the girl was doing. (saw the black haired one twitch a little as he seemed to look in her direction. He was the only one who seemed to have noticed her so far, but she realized that she wasn't being very stealthy. Instead of carefully threading in the darkness, she walked more casually as to not draw attention from those that may see her. A creeping individual seemed suspicious, but someone who was just strolling around was of no particular interest. A risk needed to be taken here, and she motioned at the black haired human, requesting him to come to her. She smiled as she saw him get off his chair and walk in her direction. She leaned against a pillar situation on the far side of the room as she waited for him to approach her. The man was obviously surprised to see her, and she couldn't fault him for it. Any normal individual would still be tied up in the room where they'd left her, but here she was, dressed and all." Once again, your kindness will not be forgotten," she whispered to him when he got within a reasonable distance. "Why don't you explain to me what's going on here?", she said in a serious tone. For a girl that was obviously younger than he was, she seemed to have a rather commanding aura around her. It seemed almost unnatural. The black haired man got up, making sure to do so when his friends were occupied elsewhere, and he went casually over to her. The two luckily looked like any of the others carrying on around the room, so the man seemed not so worried. "What are you doing here?" he whispered, "you need to get out of here" his voice was low and hushed but with a bit of haste behind it. It was then that she asked her question, and he grumbled, "I suppose I owe you." he said in regard to earlier what they did to her. Looking around casually, the black haired man then looked back to the woman with a serious expression. "We're guarding that" he said, "the whole guild was hired to try and get it out which did prove enough for the job what with how difficult it ended up being, even lost a few" the man explained to her. "We ended up not being able to get it out so we were ordered to guard it until they sent an expert at deciphering these old places" said the man, "now will you go?" he asked hastily. ("Go? I just got here," she replied. Her voice sounded a little irritated, as she didn't really feel like being told what to do. "You riffing right, you owe me," she continued. Images of what had previous happened flashed through her mind. It was an experience she would not forget, ever. Nor would she forgive those who had wronged her, though the man talking to her might be the one exception. Still, she would not forget the foul grin he gave her when he removed his member from her mouth and slid it into her tight womanhood. She gave him an angry look as she reflected over the earlier events. She seemed rather threatening in her demeanor, especially considering the fact that he seemed much stronger, physically. "After what I went through, you're expecting me to leave empty-handed?", she hissed at him, then looked to the center of the room." Give me your tunic," she demanded. "I want to have a look without being noticed. Distract your friends, and I'll keep my promise not to kill them." She took the tunic from the man, whether he was planning to give it to her or not, and made her way to the pillars in the center of the room, inspecting each of them closely. He listened to her go on but gritted his teeth as she finished, "empty-handed? You're not taking that" he growled at her, meaning the relic, "that's our pay, go find something else" he said in a whispered demand before she ripped his tunic from him. "I'm sure there's deeper in, but this is our Credits, the reason we've been here" he protested before she threatened his friends and walked off. Grumbling, the man went back to his friends and his lunch, striking up conversation with them as if nothing happened but not planning on letting her snatch their Cred. (eyed the three close for a while and when she was sure the black haired human was distracting his buddies, she focused on solving the puzzle that lay before her. She walked around the force field, moving casually past the other hunters who were taking a look. Some of them did a second take on her, appreciating her looks, not realizing that the girl wasn't one of them. She didn't fail to notice these stares, and realized that were things to go wrong, she'd be in for a hell of a lot more than what she had endured earlier. The black haired human certainly wasn't going to be able to save her from that, if he had even wanted to. She inspected each of the symbols closely as she moved from pillar to pillar, recognizing the ancient markings from her lessons about the ancient Jedi order. This temple was clearly one built by the Jedi order, not by any other force sensitive organization. Following the right steps, she'd be able to unlock this relic with relative ease. This wasn't the hardest part, it was the dozens of hunters around her that would prove to be the biggest challenge. She backed off from the center of the room, confident that she learned enough to unlock its mysteries. She returned to the place where she'd been before, and waited until the black haired human glanced her way. When he did, she motioned him over again. "You want to get paid, I can help you with that. Create a diversion for me, anything that causes a row, a fight, general confusion or even better, panic. For all I care, tell these people you caught someone following you to the temple and brought them to the room with the barrier, ready for anyone to take advantage of. Just stir things up." She looked at him intently, trying to come across as convincing as possible. "If you get in trouble, remember that I won't forget that you helped me escape. I'll get you out." It took a while but after the woman had inspected the area and moved back away, she finally caught the attention of her black haired friend. He of course waited until his friends were occupied again to go mingle around and eventually work his way to her, he looked as inconspicuous as could be. "Are you crazy?" he growled, listening to her request, "do you even know how much they offered us? Seems like you couldn't afford that sort of Cred, Miss" the man snipped at her. "We're gettin' about enough for a ten-thousand Credit pay out each for this, unless you can foot that." he looked to her, quieting his voice as another walked by and across the room, looking back into her eyes once the person passed. She looked at the man for a moment, before a glitter appeared in her eyes. Her lips pursed into a smile as she conjured up a way to manipulate him. Humans were so easy, she reflected. Obsessed with greed, that's what all of them were. Unlike these men here, she'd gone through extensive training to deal with her race's shortcomings. Then again, what was she here for again? She shook her head a little, time for evaluation would come later." Look, you already took half your payment from me earlier, don't think I forgot about that", she hissed a. "But consider this, what do you get for payment when you complete your mission here? A small cut, because all the others here have to be paid as well." She cracked a grin at him, trying to work his emotions. She would have used her powers o manipulate his mind, but seeing as she was still but an adept at that, he would likely take notice. "Just a lousy ten thousand, same as all these grunts. What if you didn't have to share with all of those? Forget about them and focus on your own gains. Help me out, and you'll be handsomely rewarded." She went silent for a little to allow her proposition to sink into the man. She watched a few people pass them by, but also kept an eye on the Zebra and the other human, who paid no attention to where their friend had gone off to. Furthermore, she saw him follow her gaze as well, and spoke to him in a reassuring tone. "I won't kill them, I promise. Oh, what's your name?" The man looked away for a second when she mentioned once again what they did earlier, he deserved that. Though when she seemed to promise something even more, it did intrigue him a little and his eyes showed it, brows lifting as he looked. "Well... With a promise like that..." he hesitated in thought for a second, almost looking as if he'd take her word for it before his face took almost a comically sudden turn to a stone serious expression, "yeah I'm going to need something up front as proof. You know, Miss, just business" he said, holding his hand out to her." Oh, and the name" he said, answering her question, "it's Adrian" he told her truthfully. "Nova," she replied in an emotionless fashion. She eyed him over for a moment as he held out his hand. "Bounty Hunter scum", she thought, though she was wise enough not to say it out loud. Hadn't he taken enough from her already? She vividly remembered his cock in her mouth and the moment when he ejaculated over her body. It wasn't the one she'd choose for an alley, but at present she had no alternatives. She reached inside her gear and retrieved a small gemstone, which the men had likely overlooked during their search of her outfit." It's a piece of Corsica gem," she explained briefly. She looked around to see if there weren't any other people nearby who might overhear their transaction. "You probably know how valuable this stuff is, even though this is quite small. You already had your way with me, and now I'm giving you this. You had better do well, or I'll reconsider my stance on leaving your friends alive." Her tone was commanding, but also threatening now. She meant business, that much was clear. She let the gem drop into his open palm. "Stir things up," she said again, growing impatient now. There were so many things that could go wrong now, but she wasn't interested to wait around much longer. Seeing that gem changed everything; to the right buyer he could sell that for more - it was business, and he was being given a better offer. "Fine." he took the gem, "Miss Nova" he replied as he eyed it and quickly pocketed it before heading back around to mingle before ending up in his former spot. Adrian and his friends talked for a while about this and that before he put his plan into action - slowly he began to mention how dull it was, the job that was. It took a while to casually put the idea in their head of needing something to do, but he did it, "yeah... We need to pass the time" said the Zebra grouchily as he lay back on a blanket on the ground, "I kinda want to go back to get the girl at the cell" chuckled the brown haired man - that was it, that was his in." Why don't we?" grinned Adrian, looking around, "he'll invite everyone" he suggested offhand with a chuckle. The brown haired man grinned, "that's a good idea." he said in thought aloud before standing up and moving around. He began to spread the rumor and idea, hoping to get as many people as possible to go and violate the prisoner. This was perfect for Adrian as now even if it all went sour, the brown haired man would be blamed for it, not him. "Mister Adrian," she said in reply as she slowly nodded. She watched him walk off to his friends. For a brief moment, she thought he was going to betray her right away, since he had every opportunity. As she watched them talk though, none of them displayed any signs of surprise, nor did they look in her direction. When they did move, it was the brown haired human, making its way to the center of the room. Nova emerged from her place and slowly made her way to the center as well, making sure she remained behind the human though. She placed her hand on the description of the nearest pillar, closed her eyes and whispered something unintelligible. She opened her eyes again and let go, moving onto the next pillar. The inscription on the first pillar had begun glowing faintly, emitting blue light where the letters had been. As she moved through the crowd, she picked up on what the people were talking about. "Really? Here? Are you sure?", she heard a man say. His friend had just come from near the brown haired human, and was now informing his buddies about what he had heard. "Oh yeah, all tied up and ready to go", the man replied. The first man rubbed his hands. "We should make our way there then, before everyone else has had their turn. I like them when they're still breathing," he said as he looked towards the exit. The crowd had become more animated, but wasn't moving just yet. "Sounds like a plan", his partner said. Not to draw too much attention to this new development, they slowly made their way towards the exit. Nova had arrived at the next pillar, coming to a halt right behind the brown haired human as she proceeded to activate this one as well. She overheard some of his conversation as the letters under her hands began glowing faintly. "In the meditation room. Yeah. Yeah, but she still got some life in her", he assured another mercenary before moving onto the next group of friends. A smile crept across her face as she heard him speak. "You have no idea," she whispered, before moving on. By now, the rumor had spread quite far now, and the group of mercenaries was shifting more, with quite a few making their way to the exit, whilst others were still trying to figure out what was going on. "Has he arrived?", one man asked. "Are we going to get paid now?" Each pillar's runes started to glow softly as she touched them, Adrian eyeing occasionally as he watched the small groups either head to the exit or become distracted in general. He tried to stay out of it best he could, more interested in what the woman was doing now and making sure he would not be the one to lead anyone on their goose chase to spare him any blame once this was all over, and he was a richer man for it. The pillars eventually all glowed from their runes and with a slow clunk of a sound, they turned slightly, the force field suddenly disappearing and giving way to the glowing trapezoidal object in the middle. It looked metallic and glowed with a mysterious blue light, and now it was vulnerable for the taking. Nova looked at Adrian right when the force field disappeared. She enjoyed the surprise that was written all over his face. The whole hall had tried to unlock the secrets for days and days, but none of them had managed. Now this young woman, he didn't even know how old she was, had just walked up to it, and after he had looked away for but a few moments, the force field was gone. She nodded at him from a distance and stepped forward to take the artifact. Whilst most of the mercenaries were busy discussing what had caused the rumor that the crowd had been engulfed in, and most of the rest had made their way through the exit, there were more than a few still standing close to the middle of the room. It didn't take long before one of them realized what was going on. He poked his friend next to him and pointed at Nova. "Did you see that? Who is that girl, is she one of ours?" She grabbed the artifact quickly and slipped it under her coat, hoping to have been inconspicuous enough to avoid catching too much attention. However, she stood out rather well in the crowd, and she had just been spotted taking the item that everyone in the room had come here for. Adrian was indeed shocked as he watched the force field drop so easily but unfortunately so were the few remaining in the room. Adrian stood, and the rest eyed her, not sure if they should congratulate her or stop her. It seemed though that the latter was the choice as a Bounty Hunter approached the young girl." Hey, you, girl" he said as he approached, "what are you doing with that?" he demanded as he moved closer. Nova let a broad smile appear across her lips as the man walked towards her. He was far bigger than she was and without a doubt much stronger. One thing was for sure, she did not want to be tied up with just him in a room. She had other things in mind though. She spoke up, drawing the attention of the others that were nearby." You have done good work, men! True, many of you tried to obtain the relic and failed to do so, but you were hired to protect it, and so you have." Nova spoke with a good amount of charisma, and she felt the crowd eat her words one by one. "This evening, you'll all go to your homes with credits in your pockets, but not after you stopped by the cantina and the brothels first!" That drew a cheer from some of the men. "The job is done, and business is business. Assemble everyone at the rear entrance of the temple, and you'll receive your credits there." She looked at Adrian for a moment and smiled at him, before she continues her speech. "Each of you will receive a letter of recommendation, you have my guarantee!" A few more cheers erupted. "Now pack up and let's leave these ruins, the job is done." The men all cheered and Adrian carefully made his way into the twisting halls and chambers back to the front hall where the rest gathered. He was ready to get out of there once he had an excuse, and he eyed the crowds just arriving and his friends realizing that the girl was no longer there. "She might be in the temple, get back there!" the brown haired man shouted and pointed back to the temple hall, the threat existing now of an intruder after their treasure." I'll check outside" Adrian quickly said to his friend, hurrying to the entrance and outside, ready to get out of there if things went sour. He stayed around, still looking for an excuse to book it when he got his chance as the rest of the Bounty Hunters save a few that followed Adrian outside, went in to find the supposed woman who escaped. As the group in front of her dispersed and began moving towards the exit, Nova stepped past a few of the makeshift camps, until she found a hooded cloak. She looked around to see if the Zebra and the brown haired Human were in sight, but it appeared as if they had already left. She pushed the cloak over her hair and blended into the crowd that was making their way outside. Furthermore, she had walked right past the meditation room when she heard some arguing and shouting and couldn't help but smile to herself. As she arrived, she saw Adrian and quietly tapped him on the shoulder. "Come on," she said quietly as they made their way to the speeders, pretending to be looking for the thief there. "Do you have your speeder bike around here?", she said as she made her way through the various parked speeders at the side of the temple. Nova had parked her own on near the end of the pack, not so far off as to draw attention, but just positioned so she could make a quick getaway. Adrian felt the tap to his shoulder and spun around quickly to see the girl, Nova behind him. "Hey" he greeted, "yeah I have-" started to explain Adrian, but he was interrupted by the sudden roar of approaching engines. It was clear the source as a black dot in the sky quickly grew to the image of a personal ship speeding towards them. "That's... Not one of ours" he said to Nova as a warning, a warning of what was clear by the design in that it was a Supremacy commissioned ship. Before they could leave, it had already landed, the engines slowing to a constant as the ship remained active while an entrance ramp emerged to reveal a figure standing atop it. Slowly the figure took a step, and then another, walking carefully down the ramp and onto the dirt with a prideful stride. Stiff black boots padded against the ground as he walked and steel gray pants loosely around his legs spawned from the boots to his waist where he wore a dark brown utility belt. Attached to the belt was black cloth in two sections, one on each hip that flowed to about ankle length and were separated enough to reveal his legs, swaying in the wind stirred up by his engines. His top was a black tunic that opened at the front and folded over closed that was sleeveless, leaving his arms bare save bandages wrapped around each forearm. As seen from his arms, his skin was blue, he was still humanoid with five fingers and swirling tattoos crawled up his arms. A black hood shrouded his face save glowing red eyes that pierced through the dark. Standing at a height of 6'1 with a strong but agile build, it was clear this man was a Chess, though a young one seemingly by his more swift build. As he walked, a dark feeling could be felt emanating from the man, but before anyone could react, his eyes suddenly locked onto Nova. Nova came to a halt as she saw the approaching ship. There was something wrong about this, it felt as if it should not be here. She couldn't quite put her finger on it just yet. "Adrian!", she shouted over the roar of the ship's engines. She didn't feel like waiting this one out, but the man she'd allied with was entranced by the arrival of this abnormal ship, and she couldn't really blame him. He was weaker of mind, curious and eager to an extent that only humans were. She to felt the need to watch what would happen next though. Who was this mystery arrival? Someone else who wanted to get to the temple? Whoever it was, they sure had no intention of making a subtle approach, as all the others had, with hiding their speeders, swoop bikes, gear and all camping out inside the temple, out of sight of others. The mercenaries had noticed the arrival as well, as the roaring engines' sound was clearly heard within the temple. The first came out of the front entrance of the temple already, wondering who had made their arrival this time. Nova hid her face under the hood of the cloak as she watched the figure descend from the ramp. She had begun to feel uneasy about this when the ship first appeared, but now she was positively worried. A darkness crept over her heart as the figure continued to walk down. Once his red eyes turned to her, there was no mistake about it. This was a Sith. Whilst she could not estimate his true potential or his skill and ability to wield the force, she had to prepare for the absolute worst case scenario. She moved to Adrian, never keeping her eyes off the man at the ship. "Stay behind me," she said to him. "Prepare two speeders for us, quickly!", she said as she encourages him to make haste. She would only need to delay the advance of this dark force for just a while, before they could hopefully make their escape. It was indeed a Sith, the Dark Side resonated through him in quite an abundance and the Force could be felt reaching out to everyone in the crowd gathering out front if anyone were in fact sensitive to the Force like Nova was. It was then his eyes shot to her, he took a step, then another, slowly striding towards the woman. "I'm here on Supremacy business, I'm here to retrieve the artifact" his voice was stern and demanding yet with a softer, eerie tone, "but. You've gotten it out?" he asked aloud to everyone there as he walked. In a rather sudden movement though, a swift stride that in an instant put him face to face with Nova, he arrived at her with great speed. The friction of the air blew his hood back and revealed a sharper, younger face with smooth blue skin and deeply dark blue hair that was longer and straight, tucked back into his hooded tunic, bangs draped over his forehead unevenly. His eyes glowed red, with pinkish red sclera and deep crimson iris and pupil, they glared deeply into her from a distance far too close for comfort." Why..." his voice whispered to her, "do you have the Holocrine?" he asked. All Nova wanted to do now is to get away from this place as fast as she could. Toying around with all these mercenaries was one thing, but this next challenge was one she was rather keen to avoid. Only rarely did Jedi face off versus the Sith, and in this case it seemed like the playing field was far from level. The dread emanating from this individual was so strong, that it made her unable move or think clearly. Immobilized, as if nailed to the very ground she stood on, she saw him approach her. When he did come to a halt and addressed her directly, she could finally muster the strength to form a reply. The Chess man had tried to set the mercenaries up against her, but she wouldn't let him so easily. "You're just here to take it for yourself, Sith!", she cried out to him, making sure the group that had gathered to see what was going on clearly heard her words. None of these were lies of course, but she did carefully ignore the fact that she was here with the same objective. The mercenaries were thrown into confusion now. He was from the supremacy, then who was the girl? Was she the same girl some others had talked about that was caught earlier? Was the Chess man really a Sith? Nova felt cold as she mans spoke to her. She looked him straight in the eyes though, clearly defiant. She was not prepared to answer his questions though. Furthermore, she would not play his game. All she could hope for is that she could delay long enough for Adrian to provide her with a chance to escape. Her hand rested on her belt, ready for anything. A smirk subtly showed upon his face and his eyebrows raised slightly as she called him out. "Sith?" he asked with a chuckle, "no one said I was such a thing" he told her, loud enough for the men to hear. "I was sent here to retrieve the object and to pay them, of course I'm here to take it, we hired them" he spoke, it was an obvious statement which all the Bounty Hunters would know, given that as stated, the Supremacy hired them and had told them they would send someone to take it." Clearly you aren't a member of this Bounty Guild..." the Chess said loudly once again, chuckling then after, "for an intruder... You don't seem well-informed. Bad move" he told her, still staring her down. It was clear this Sith knew how to talk, his voice smooth and swift as he eyed Nova carefully. Nova finally managed to create some distance between her and the Sith again, backing away from the man as she assumed a fighting stance. If he planned to strike first, she wanted some distance between them, so she had time to react. Either to draw out her lightsaber and parry any attack he might aim at her, or simply to avoid his assault and keep her distance. Whilst she knew she had excellent reflexes, even for a force sensitive, she was not going to risk underestimating this enemy. She didn't know the extent of his ability yet, for all she knew he was twice as fast as she was. When creating a bit of a clearing between them, she felt safe enough to briefly look over her shoulder and see what Adrian had done to help solve this situation. "Come on Adrian! We need to get out of here!", she shouted in his direction before she turned to the Sith again. "You're too late, Sith", she hissed at him. "Leaving your minions here to protect your find, what a foolish move." She was taunting him now, seeing if she could get the Sith, which she knew to be passionate and emotional, to react to her challenges. The Sith watched her carefully, letting the girl gain some distance for now, but he simply chuckled at her taunts. She was an entertaining thing, and from what he could see, not too hard on the eyes either. It was too bad that she was in his way as she would have made quite the interesting toy. After her failed attempt to rouse him, just a second after, the Sith once again rushed her. This time in one swift movement the Chess drew his lightsaber, a basic shape with a tattered grip, and flicked the switch, bringing to life the hum of a blood-red blade, his Lightsaber. With a harsh growl and a lighting quick swing, the man brought his saber up and slammed it down, attempting to end her pathetic tries once and for all. "Die!" he growled as he brought the red saber hurling down towards her as Adrian, the man from before, was nowhere to be found. (eyes grew wide as she saw the Sith rush towards her. She could sense that he meant business this time, and she would no longer retreat. As fast as the approached her, as quickly she matched his speed and brought her own lightsaber in front of her. Now activated, the bright lime-green light clashed with the Sith's red saber, causing sparks to fly in every direction. She deflected the attack and forced the Sith's saber to the side, before she commenced her own attack. A flurry of bright-colored blades followed, as the two force wielders fought each other. The group of mercenaries was in uproar now, with many in conflict as to what should be done. The less brave men decided that this was the perfect moment to slip away into the darkness. Others wanted to side with one or the other, whilst the more greedy ones proposed to capture both forces. None of them dared to interfere in the battle though. Whilst Jedi and Sith were an extremely rare sight and both would likely have a large bounty on their heads, they all realized that the saber they wielded were nothing to mess with. The Chess gritted his teeth in a grin as the woman successfully prevented her death, her green saber clashing with a loud sound and hum with his crimson blade. Even more so she began to push his attack back, forcing the Sith Lightsaber to the side until she had just enough leeway to pull away and begin her own attack without his momentum carrying a fatal move. Unfortunately for Nova, however, the Sith was a bit more skilled than to be taken out by a move like that, he quickly brought up his blade with a hastened hum and a clash as he parried her attack. With great care the Sith blocked strike after strike, swinging in with his own attacks between each, the two in an epic clash as the Bounty Hunters watched on with interest. For all that greed though, it was mostly in jest towards the Sith. The most had no problem with the idea of taking the Jedi in, but they knew the Sith was their benefactor, or at least worked for them, so to bite the hand that fed them was quite the dumb plan if any of them took it seriously. Only about half remained as the rest, including Adrian, seemed to duck out for the time being. Just at the latest clash of green and red light rung out like lightning, another sound overtook the clearing. The loud sound of a speeder at full thrust was quickly growing louder as it approached rapidly. "Get out of the way!" Adrian shouted over the engines, the speeder heading straight for the Sith. At this point, Adrian owed it to Nova, he had done something horrible and even knowing that this Sith was who they worked for in a way, he now had his own treasure from this that would pay more too - not to mention he wanted no part of this mystical nonsense that was clearly what they were protecting. The Sith merely laughed as the speeder raced in, it threatened to crash into him, but the Dark Side of the Force was with him this day. In a quick motion, the Chess held his hand out and in a swift movement brought it downward. An invisible push tipped the speeder to the ground and it is as well as its driver went flying overhead, both crashing violently into the wall of the Temple. (mercenary group may have split and scattered, there were still plenty of small groups that seemed determined though. Much of that determination vanished when they saw the speeder with Adrian crashing into the temple. The resulted chaos that ensued mostly consisted of people trying to run away, get to their speeders or flee inside. A small band of mercenaries that were determined to align themselves with the Sith approached the fight though, wielding their weapons but still keeping a distance. If needed, they could intervene in the fight, but even they realized that attacking the Jedi at this stage would be very dangerous. At the handle of the green saber, Nova saw an opening when the Sith forced Adrian's speeder out of his way. The man would have to be mourned later, she decided when his speeder crashed into the wall. The Sith had taken his attention off her though, and while she too had stepped aside when the speeder had come towards them, she wasn't so easily distracted. With full force, she slashed down at the red saber, forcing it down as the man facing her had used his other hand to deflect the incoming speeder. Next, she thrust her saber forward, hoping to be fast enough to land a hit. The feeling swept through him as the Force felt for him that his opponent began to swing first even before he heard the loosened hum of her lightsaber in motion. Her target, he knew, was that of his own blade, he could feel this too in the Force, and it was the very Force that flowed through his movements and allowed him to use all of his strength to not drop his blade as her full force crashed against it. Though the Chess had blocked her strike, his lightsaber was still lowered by the pressure of her strength against his use of only one hand. Still as she then thrust forward, the lights scraping against one another and the blade was thrust with aim for his center, the Sith summoned his own strength through the Force and just at the last second, he raised his blade against hers, the green lightsaber only just grazing his shoulder and burning against his cloth and flesh instead of running him through." Aaggh..." growled the male Chess softly as pain coursed through his shoulder as the blade seared his skin, yet he still pressed on his lightsaber against hers as it was now angled in its own dangerous position. Such as her thrust forward let her saber hover just at his shoulder, his blade too was near her torso. This was a crossroads however - if the Chess took his chance to strike, cleaving her in twain for a most certain kill then undoubtedly he would lose an arm as the movement would surely release her lightsaber against his shoulder. It would be a sacrifice to win, but the Sith was not about to lose so much as long as he saw another way, and he did in fact see another way as the difference between their strength now was that the Chess had a hand free. His pain shook him to the core, the burning heat boiling his blood both figuratively and literally. The Sith were taught to use their pain, their passion, it was their strength and as such it was now as the man built the Force within him, around him. It flared in his core, exploding through his body, and condensed through, around, and away from his arm as with a powerful thrust of his arm, he summoned the Force to push harshly, right against her body in an astoundingly powerful Force Push that crashed against the woman harshly. With her full strength, using two arms and forcing her saber against the Sith's, she tried to overpower him. However, it immediately became apparent that he was able to hold her attack back, resulting in a brief standoff as she two sabers stuck to each other. She looked him right in his red eyes, facing the terror directly. The moment was short-lived though, as the Chess man raised his hand and used the Force to push her back violently. With her saber pressed against his, she had no means to deflect the attack. The power was so enormous that it pushed Nova far back, raising her from the ground and slamming her into the speeders behind her. She attempted to recover, but the attack had inflicted much pain, that she was unable to rise to her feet. From the sidelines, several gasps could be heard as a few mercenaries stumbled back at the display of power by the Sith. The few who had remained and figured to target just the Sith had either dispersed or quickly switched sides. Not all were dumbstruck by the violent duel though, and a small group stormed towards the fallen Jedi. Would the Sith let them, they'd capture her right there. Nova was not entirely defeated though. The forceful thrust had thrown her back so far that she had a small moment to recover. Focusing her mind on the Force, she managed to overcome the pain and rise to her feet. Though her strength and agility had severely diminished, she still managed to recover her lightsaber and would not let a few mercenaries take her so easily. Successfully the Jedi was tossed back and pretty harshly as intended, she could barely hold her lightsaber let alone stand. The Chess grinned as his hand went to his shoulder to try and ease the pain of a lightsaber scorch while he began his stride towards her, his boots padding the dirt as they carried him to her. Lightsaber in hand and to the side, his red eyes narrowed as he approached, and she rose to her feet. Still, there was no way she could fight back now - even with his injured left shoulder above the hand in which he carried his blade, she was weak now. Still a good few feet away from Nova, the Chess let go of his shoulder and held out his lightsaber towards the woman. He brought it back and held it with both hands, aimed straight towards her as a quick dash of Force Speed rocketed him towards her, thrusting his blade out with such speed that this was it, there was no way to defend. In an instant his blade a mere inch from her did he intend to kill before a sudden invisible force crashed against the body of her attacker and flung him across the field harshly. The Chess let out a growl once he slammed to the ground, struggling against his new pain to rise as all that could be heard now was the gasps of the remaining mercenaries and the hum of a new lightsaber from in the forest. A golden light began to grow from the forest, getting brighter as it neared the edge of the clearing. Emerging forth was a figure, a tall, lean figure who seemed to be male, illuminated by mostly his illuminated blade, a Lightsaber until he fully shone in the natural light around them. The figure's left hand was extended - the source of the Force Thrust while the other carried a lightsaber with a smooth hilt, detailed with wrappings, angled down as its golden blade glowed and hummed, brown, knee-high boots padding the ground. From his boots spawned black pants that hugged his thin frame and disappeared under a dark brown tunic that was worn closed, sleeveless, and draped down to his knees under a belt in a rounded edge fashion at the bottom. On his arms he wore black leather bracers and over his eyes were simple bandages that covered them completely. His skin was a pale color and his body thin yet toned, his hair was a platinum blond and styled messy and unkempt up top but in a long, straight braid in back that reached down to the middle of his back. The Mercenaries by this point were gone, they didn't care anymore about the reward when faced with three Force Sensitives, two against the one on their side that was clearly losing. If they were to live to make cred another day they would need to book it now, and so they did, leaving only the Chess, Nova, this new Force User, and the crumpled heap where Adrian crashed. Nova watched as the Chess slowly approached her. The mercenaries didn't seem to make a move on her yet, seemingly not confident enough to take on a Jedi who was still wielding her lightsaber. The mercenaries weren't her main concern though. Instead, Nova tried to think of a way in which she could divert the Sith's attention elsewhere. If she couldn't manage that, she'd likely be ended in a matter of seconds. She tried to raise her saber into a defensive position as she blue humanoid approached her. Suddenly though, he was in a sprint towards her, so swift and so agile that it seemed as if Nova had no chance to effectively repel his attack. When he was about to reach her, Nova could do little but raise her saber in defense and close her eyes, hoping for a swift and painless end. She heard a weird noise and noticed that the end had not come. She opened her eyes immediately and saw the Chess groaning on the ground a bit further away. In the distance, a light so bright appeared, that the AdAway had to cover her eyes in order not to be blinded. It was as if the sun itself was coming to the temple. When her eyes were somewhat adjusted, she took another look at the figure. She saw his lightsaber, which seemed to be golden. It was a color she hadn't seen before, and only time would tell if the individual was friendly. For now, it seemed as if she was safe as the unknown figure had apparently saved her from certain death at the hands of the Chess Sith. The Chess struggled to get up from the ground as he hit the dirt from the force of the new Force Sensitive on the scene. He slowly brought himself to his knees as the new figure strode down the shallow slope up into the woods that he came from and continued to walk towards them. In an instant, the new entrant dashed for the Chess and swung upwards towards the blue-skinned man who was able to pull his Lightsaber up just in time, the red blade clashing with the gold and being flung back with great strength. The Sith ended up on his rear and made a motion to move his blade but the tip of gold light that was the Lightsaber of the sudden combatant was aimed right for his neck faster than he could move. He had to think quick, the man threw a hand forward, moving the Force with it to create a Force Thrust harshly at the man. It seemed though that he was a bit more experienced than to be taken off guard by such a tactic and with his Lightsaber hand he brought back the force and caught it, flowing with the motion to bring his free hand forward as his saber hand dispersed the force of the attack and used his own Force Thrust to fling the man across the ground. The Chess skidded across the dirt and caught himself, tumbling to a crouch before he let a smirk pass his lips. Surprisingly, this was a part of his plan. Now that the Chess was away from them, he had a direct line of sight to his ship and taking no second to hesitate he dashed for it. Before anyone could attack him, he pushed a button on a pad he pulled from his pocket and the canons of his ship began to fire at the duo. Luckily the man waved his hand in time, using the Force to deter the path of the laser bolts so that they were missed, only the force of the blast and the dirt kicked up by it swept over them. He stumbled a bit against the force of the blast, but they lived through it as the sound of engines roared through the clearing. Once the smoke cleared, the ship was already flying away from them with far too much speed to try and go after the Sith. In an instant it was over, the Sith was gone, and the two were left alone, only a small groan or two heard from the rubble where Adrian was could be heard. The man switched off his Lightsaber, the gold disappearing into the decorated hilt as he turned to Nova, stashing the hilt inside his tunic where it would rest against the pressure of the belt and remain hidden under the clothing."Well, well... It's been a while, my AdAway" the man spoke in a familiar voice adding to the giveaway of how he had addressed her.

Star Wars - Padawan Training (Koibito & mj2002)|rating:3.0

Destroy the Godmodder

I don't know if any of you guys remember me, but I'm Izaak Grey, starter of the original Destroy the Godmother thread on the old site. It got abandoned after a while, but now with the new site I'm starting over. Rules/tips! No character sheets or anything like that required. Attacks can be completely random, and they don't need to make sense. Don't double post. No god-modding or anything of the like of your own. I'm the godmother, I'm the only one allowed. If you want to summon an entity to help you take out the godmother, go ahead and go through a summoning process! Seriously consider it, in my time as a fighter against the 'Fodder on another forum, it was extremely helpful. This'll take time, be patient. Try not to make your attacks to overly complex. This happened the last time I did this, and I stopped finding an entertainment value in the whole thing. It bogs me down, and I don't like to respond. As the site improves in all of its wonder, I'll hopefully make this whole thing a bit more complex (as it was last time). Go ahead and attack. Godmodder: 100/100 Suddenly the Dragon born emerges from a gray haze in the distance, he whips his shoulders backwards and with a great thrust of his head shouts the mighty the'sum towards the god fodder. With a mighty chant his lips peel apart, and he screams the dragon speak; "Us RO Day!" Leroy said Suddenly the Dragon born emerges from a gray haze in the distance, he whips his shoulders backwards and with a great thrust of his head shouts the mighty the'sum towards the god fodder. With a mighty chant his lips peel apart, and he screams the dragon speak; "Us RO Day!" The godmother lazily steps to the side, avoiding the shout. Godmodder: 100/100 As the wave from the shout passed by the godmother, an oversized fetus was willed into existence by the massive particle clash, and shot a wave of psychic energy towards the godmother´s back. The Dragon born furrows his brow and stares at the Godmother, frustrated by the failed attack. Before he can recover and send another attack towards them, however, he is cleaved in two by a helicopter that manifested behind him. The hunk of screaming metal flies towards the Godmother on a collision course, spraying the blood of the dragon born through the air as it goes. Green said As the wave from the shout passed by the godmother, an oversized fetus was willed into existence by the massive particle clash, and shot a wave of psychic energy towards the godmother´s back. See below. Leroy said The Dragon born furrows his brow and stares at the Godmother, frustrated by the failed attack. Before he can recover and send another attack towards them, however, he is cleaved in two by a helicopter that manifested behind him. The hunk of screaming metal flies towards the Godmother on a collision course, spraying the blood of the dragon born through the air as it goes. As the Godmother steps out of the way of the Psychic blast, the blast hits the helicopter is sent careening backwards into a cliff, exploding. Godmodder: 100/100 The oversized fetus uses it's psychic abilities to steer the force of the explosion towards the Godmother. The graceful per using the avatar of Lina Inverse swoops in with a fireball attack. Then follows that up with an ice arrow.(if Avatars are allowed if not ignore) Green said The oversized fetus uses it's psychic abilities to steer the force of the explosion towards the Godmother. The Godmother steps away from the force of the explosion, letting it slam into Lina, disrupting her (?) attacks. Weiss Sch nee said The graceful per using the avatar of Lina Inverse swoops in with a fireball attack. Then follows that up with an ice arrow.(if Avatars are allowed if not ignore) See above. Godmodder: 100/100 Psychic fetus speaks gibberish, before lifting a tree with its mind, sharpening it while doing so, before hurling it towards the Godmother. Green said Psychic fetus speaks gibberish, before lifting a tree with its mind, sharpening it while doing so, before hurling it towards the Godmother. The Godmother steps to the side, grabbing the tree at the thick end and hurling it towards the Psychic Fetus. Godmodder: 100/100 Combatants [+] Green: Psychic Fetus takes the liberty of using his telekinetic powers to blow the tree to smithereens the moment the Godmother touches it, sending pieces of shrapnel flying all over the place, thus preventing the Godmother's counter-attack. Green said Psychic Fetus takes the liberty of using his telekinetic powers to blow the tree to smithereens the moment the Godmother touches it, sending pieces of shrapnel flying all over the place, thus preventing the Godmother's counter-attack. Shrapnel is not a real word, as the proper word is shrapnel (only one 'L'), and so it ceases to exist, causing no damage to the Godmother. Godmodder: 100/100 Combatants [+] Green: Psychic Fetus Gets hit by the psychic blast and falls backwards tho gets up again and prepares to cast a thunder spell.(she) A swirl of leaves and smoke is seen on the field, and out steps the figure of Hiroshi China. He stared at the Godmother, narrowing his eyes. "So, we meet again. This time shall be different." Hiroshi says, throwing a smoke bomb between himself and the godmother, followed by a lunar meant to strike at a nonvital point. Weiss Sch nee said Gets hit by the psychic blast and falls backwards tho gets up again and prepares to cast a thunder spell.(she) Thunder spell being prepared! rawkhawk64 said A swirl of leaves and smoke is seen on the field, and out steps the figure of Hiroshi China. He stared at the Godmother, narrowing his eyes. "So, we meet again. This time shall be different." Hiroshi says, throwing a smoke bomb between himself and the godmother, followed by a lunar meant to strike at a nonvital point. "You again. I shall delight in ripping your body apart. I am quicker and stronger than last we met." The Godmother steps out of the way of the lunar, expecting this move from experience. Godmodder: 100/100 combatants [+] Green: Psychic Fetus Weiss Sch nee: Lina Inverse (avatar)Rawkhawk64: Hiroshi China Hiroshi smirked. "You might be quicker and stronger, but you still haven't seen all my tricks." Hiroshi said, revealing his left Finnegan eye again. His Sharing an had been studying his foe, and had revealed increased reflexes. With his Finnegan, he saw that the Godmother's power had increased as well. Hiroshi smirked, forming a cross with his forefinger and middle finger of each hand. Shadow Clone Juts! With that done, Hiroshi's clone rushed at the Godmother, using chakra to boost its movement. The clone planned on striking with a lunar, with a 30% chance of success. Hiroshi, meanwhile, sat. "Hmm... I think it's time for the Six Paths to make an appearance." Hiroshi said. He then began to concentrate. Note [+] This time, the bodies of the Six Paths will be specified as being dead bodies. Other than that, their abilities are unchanged Progress [+] Paraná Path: II Animal Path: IIIPreta Path: Inhuman Path: IIIIIAsura Path: IIIIIIIDeva Path: IIIIIIII From the burnt rubble of the helicopter from earlier rises a form, made entirely of human flesh! Lo! For it is Doctor Bees! From his waist mounted beehive he begins chanting in an ancient tongue only known to bees and some people from Albuquerque. "Izzy buzz! Booze dazzle! Buzz buzz buzz. . ." Though silence followed to the ears of mortal men, he continued chanting in this horrid tongue. In a number of turns, Doctor Bees shall unleash an abominable creature upon the godmother! Progress [+] 1/10 Lina chanted a spell. It will soon be complete. rawkhawk64 said Hiroshi smirked. "You might be quicker and stronger, but you still haven't seen all my tricks." Hiroshi said, revealing his left Finnegan eye again. His Sharing an had been studying his foe, and had revealed increased reflexes. With his Finnegan, he saw that the Godmother's power had increased as well. Hiroshi smirked, forming a cross with his forefinger and middle finger of each hand. With that done, Hiroshi's clone rushed at the Godmother, using chakra to boost its movement. The clone planned on striking with a lunar, with a 30% chance of success. Hiroshi, meanwhile, sat. "Hmm... I think it's time for the Six Paths to make an appearance." Hiroshi said. He then began to concentrate. The Godmother moved to the side quickly, avoiding the clone with ease, and punching it in the back of the head. Leroy said From the burnt rubble of the helicopter from earlier rises a form, made entirely of human flesh! Lo! For it is Doctor Bees! From his waist mounted beehive he begins chanting in an ancient tongue only known to bees and some people from Albuquerque. "Izzy buzz! Booze dazzle! Buzz buzz buzz. . ." Though silence followed to the ears of mortal men, he continued chanting in this horrid tongue. In a number of turns, Doctor Bees shall unleash an abominable creature upon the godmother! Godmother: 100/100 Combatants [+] Green: Psychic Fetus Weiss Sch nee: Lina Inverse (avatar)Rawkhawk64: Hiroshi UchihaLeeRoy: Various Lina continued to chant as a crackling energy began to appear in her hands. Seeing Hiroshi already attacking she blinked at how easily the Godmother was pummeling his clone. "Mother! Tell your children not to come my way!" Psychic Fetus sang, unleashing a massive wave of psychic rock energy at the Godmother. The special properties of this wave was such that if the Godmother was hit by it, and could not instantly name the song the Fetus was singing, as well as the band who played it originally, he would be hurt. Weiss Sch nee said Lina continued to chant as a crackling energy began to appear in her hands. Seeing Hiroshi already attacking she blinked at how easily the Godmother was pummeling his clone. Attack almost ready! Green said "Mother! Tell your children not to come my way!" Psychic Fetus sang, unleashing a massive wave of psychic rock energy at the Godmother. The special properties of this wave was such that if the Godmother was hit by it, and could not instantly name the song the Fetus was singing, as well as the band who played it originally, he would be hurt. The wave cascades toward the Godmother, nearly hitting him. The Godmother, at the last moment, had shoved Hiroshi's clone in front of him, the clone taking most of the wave except for part of it hitting the GM's pinky. Even if he did not name the song, it would not affect him except to stun him for a single attack. "Mother! By Dancing!" Godmodder: 100/100 Psychic Fetus smiled awkwardly. It was time for it to step up it's game. It materialized a pair of shades in front of it's eyes, and fingerless leather gloves on it's underdeveloped hands. The psychic rock wave had touched the godmother, and so, it was time for a face-off. A continues stream of energy came crashing out of Fetus towards the godmother, if it hit, it would lock the two in a lyrical battle. The sound of a synth growled throughout the battlefield, along with a bass buildup. Drums hit a crescendo, and a guitar screamed."I've seen your face in the shadows." Fetus started "I've seen your face in the places I wasn't meant to be!" He reached his hand forward. "I've heard them whisper about you. I've heard the men in the bars, and I've seen the women lock their doors at night! Lock your doors tonight." Psychic rock energy blasting the surrounding ground apart. Hiroshi smiled. Perfect. He made a few hand seals, and the ground started to shake. Summoning: Impure World Reincarnation! A wooden coffin arose from the ground, and out stepped a body. Hiroshi inserted a lunar with a seal in the back of the body's head. The body then opened its eyes to reveal the same eye pattern as Hiroshi had. "You remember the Six Paths, right Mr. Grey?" Hiroshi said, as the Paraná Path stood up. "The Paraná Path. Able to summon and control the King of Hell Statue." Hiroshi said. The path, however, pulled out a few smoke bombs, throwing them down as Hiroshi focused power to his Sharing an. Kamui! Kiyoshi teleported the Paraná Path a safe distance away, and turned to face the Godmother. "Soon, the others will join me, and then you will see how useless it is to fight me." Progress [+] Animal Path: IIIPreta Path: Inhuman Path: IIIIIAsura Path: IIIIIIIDeva Path: IIIIIIII Lina felt now was the time to unleash her attack. "Thunder!" She said hurling the power at the Godmother feeling it was a good idea as the Fetus was also attacking him at the same time. Drag, the Psychopath ran up behind the Godmother, brandishing his Buzz axe. "I HAVE THE SHINIEST MEAT BICYCLE!" He screamed at the top of his lungs, leaping at the Godmother with all the psychotic primal fury that a man with no sense of reality could have, swinging the Buzz axe around until finally he brought it down in an arc towards the crest of the Godmothers skull. "IT'S RAINING MEAT CHUNKS!" A thin-muscled man emerges from a nearby tree, and runs at the godmother with a small wooden club."yaaaeaeaieaah" A weak battle-cry emerges from his mouth. As the battle raged on, Memo, the programmable yet indisputably sentient VCR set his plans into motion. So long had the world ignored VHS tapes that humanity had failed to unlock their true potential. "ARISE MY MINIONS!" he cried, front door flapping as the "12:00" on his face flashed a bright red. And with that utterance, characters began to crawl out of the film in every VHS tape on earth taking on their true sizes. And these beings were replicated to astronomical numbers; every frame of every film spewed a new minion unto the earth. "HAHA," Memo cackled. "It is only a matter of time before my army is ready to crush that pathetic godmother. And so! A second turn passes! Mass destruction ensues around the Doctor of Bees, but he continues his mad chant! Charge: 2/10 The original Green Ranger teleports in and attempts to stab the Godmother in the back with the Dragon Dagger Mantras to-do... ! Los Lagos del tempo! The Time Wizard freezes time and throws a construction roller at the Godmother. "Mud mud mud mud! Wrrryyyy!" he cries, as he smacks the construction vehicle. Green said Psychic Fetus smiled awkwardly. It was time for it to step up it's game. It materialized a pair of shades in front of it's eyes, and fingerless leather gloves on it's underdeveloped hands. The psychic rock wave had touched the godmother, and so, it was time for a face-off. A continues stream of energy came crashing out of Fetus towards the godmother, if it hit, it would lock the two in a lyrical battle. The sound of a synth growled throughout the battlefield, along with a bass buildup. Drums hit a crescendo, and a guitar screamed."I've seen your face in the shadows." Fetus started "I've seen your face in the places I wasn't meant to be!" He reached his hand forward. "I've heard them whisper about you. I've heard the men in the bars, and I've seen the women lock their doors at night! Lock your doors tonight." Psychic rock energy blasting the surrounding ground apart. The Godmother jumped, avoiding the stream. "Ha! As if I would participate in such a silly battle!" rawkhawk64 said Hiroshi smiled. Perfect. He made a few hand seals, and the ground started to shake. A wooden coffin arose from the ground, and out stepped a body. Hiroshi inserted a lunar with a seal in the back of the body's head. The body then opened its eyes to reveal the same eye pattern as Hiroshi had. "You remember the Six Paths, right Mr. Grey?" Hiroshi said, as the Paraná Path stood up. "The Paraná Path. Able to summon and control the King of Hell Statue." Hiroshi said. The path, however, pulled out a few smoke bombs, throwing them down as Hiroshi focused power to his Sharing an. Hiroshi teleported the Paraná Path a safe distance away, and turned to face the Godmother. "Soon, the others will join me, and then you will see how useless it is to fight me." Weiss Sch nee said Lina felt now was the time to unleash her attack. "Thunder!" She said hurling the power at the Godmother feeling it was a good idea as the Fetus was also attacking him at the same time. The Godmother pushes Drag (see next) in front of the attack, blocking it. LeoricAquila said Drag, the Psychopath ran up behind the Godmother, brandishing his Buzz axe. "I HAVE THE SHINIEST MEAT BICYCLE!" He screamed at the top of his lungs, leaping at the Godmother with all the psychotic primal fury that a man with no sense of reality could have, swinging the Buzz axe around until finally he brought it down in an arc towards the crest of the Godmothers skull. "IT'S RAINING MEAT CHUNKS!" The Godmother reached his hand up, grabbing Drag by the neck, pushing him in front of Lina's attack (see previous) and causing him to respawn. Ruronihs said As the battle raged on, Memo, the programmable yet indisputably sentient VCR set his plans into motion. So long had the world ignored VHS tapes that humanity had failed to unlock their true potential. "ARISE MY MINIONS!" he cried, front door flapping as the "12:00" on his face flashed a bright red. And with that utterance, characters began to crawl out of the film in every VHS tape on earth taking on their true sizes. And these beings were replicated to astronomical numbers; every frame of every film spewed a new minion unto the earth. "HAHA," Memo cackled. "It is only a matter of time before my army is ready to crush that pathetic godmother. The Godmother raises his eyebrow at Memo, but otherwise does nothing. Leroy said And so! A second turn passes! Mass destruction ensues around the Doctor of Bees, but he continues his mad chant! Charge: 2/10 Bench said The original Green Ranger teleports in and attempts to stab the Godmother in the back with the Dragon Dagger The Godmother grabs his hand, sending a piercing glare through his mask, breaking his wrist before the Dagger reached his back. Descartes said Mantras to-do... ! Los Lagos del tempo! The Time Wizard freezes time and throws a construction roller at the Godmother. "Mud mud mud mud! Wrrryyyy!" he cries, as he smacks the construction vehicle. The Godmother quickly steps out of the path of the vehicle. Godmodder: 100/100 The little man attempts to hit the godmother over the head with his club. "BZZZZZAAAAAAHHHH!!!!" Drag screamed as he turned around after being hit by the thunder attack, tilting his gas masked face toward the godmother. "I'M GONNA SWALLOW YOUR SOUL, BADASS!" He shouted as he pulled out his Malian Flame Spewing SMG and began to rain a storm of fire infused bullets down on the god molders, all while shouting some crazy gibberish. "HAHAHA! I'LL TAKE THE LIFE OUT OF YOUR JUICY MEAT BUCKETS AND SHOWER IN THE BLOOD OF ONE THOUSAND SCREAMING STARS! THE POOP TRAIN WILL LIVE ON!:" The Time Wizard uses his power to erase time, causing it so that the God Modern ever stepped out of the path of the vehicle. "Mud!" He cries. "Sorry." Lina apologized to the one she hit. "He just brushes off attacks like nothing. If this keeps up I may have to get serious." By that she meet she would have to play her hand by chanting a more powerful spell. After having his wrist broken the green ranger played on the Dragon Dagger summoning the Fragonard. He jumped in the cockpit of the giant robot and tried to use its drill tipped tail to skewer the Godmother A kid with silver hair throws a brick at God mod's head. Hiroshi approached Lina. "I have a plan." he said to her. "I have a juts, Kazoo. If you aim the just into the air, I can redirect it behind the Godmother." he whispered. He'd learned from his last encounter, that the only way to best their foe was to work together. He shook his head. Then, from the seal that had appeared when the Paraná Path had been summoned, another wooden coffin appeared. Hiroshi used the Kazoo to warp over. When the coffin opened, Hiroshi placed another seal inside it. Hiroshi smirked. "The Animal Path. Able to summon a variety of animals." Hiroshi announced. The Animal Path moved out of the way, and began to prepare a summon. Hiroshi, meanwhile, warped back to Lina. "Just aim your next attack at the sky, and I shall try to take care of the rest." Hiroshi said, quickly making some hand seals. Earth Style: Bedrock Coffin Juts! From the earth, to giant stone slabs reached up, planning on trapping the Godmother inside a hollow dome of earth. Hiroshi smirked. He hadn't even used very many juts last time... no, he still had some tricks up his sleeve... Progress [+] Greta Path: Inhuman Path: IIIIIAsura Path: IIIIIIIDeva Path: IIIIIIII Summons [+] Animal Path -Sgt; Giant Chameleon: IIIIIIIIII "FUCK TEAMWORK!" Psychic Fetus shouted, and threw a bunch of trees towards the godmother. Excellent, the godmother ignored the VHS tapes, just like the rest of the world. Before long, Memo was surrounded by some of the most beloved, and feared, characters of all time, cloned countless times for every frame in which they existed. "Yes, my legion! Now is the time to take back what is rightfully ours! Let us bring the age of digital media to the end and show the world what it means to have a hard copy!" The army let out a bloodthirsty cry, hailing Memo for his genius plan. "Now, begin phase 1: SATURDAY MORNING BLITZ!" With that 100 Spider men from the awesome Saturday morning cartoon began to swing around the godmother, spraying him with a relentless stream of webbing. Then, 53 Jackie Chan came flying in to unleash a wave of lungful fury; they were joined by 237 power rangers spanning all the generations, delivering a Sendai smackdown. Finally, every Autobot, every Deception, every Maximal, every Pokémon, and the American Godzilla all blasted the godmother with all of their combined lasers, missiles, and otherwise signature attacks. "HAHAHA THE PAIN IS JUST NOSTALGIA PUMMELING YOUR BODY!" Jumping forward at the Godmother from out of a helicopter, Hosier Maximoff launched a series of quick jabs left and right toward the Godmother's jaw, he then followed this up by spinning his body entirely around and launched two fast roundhouse kicks using his right leg. Stephen said The little man attempts to hit the godmother over the head with his club. The Godmother pushes him in front of the hail of fire bullets (see next). The little man respawns. LeoricAquila said "BZZZZZAAAAAAHHHH!!!!" Drag screamed as he turned around after being hit by the thunder attack, tilting his gas masked face toward the godmother. "I'M GONNA SWALLOW YOUR SOUL, BADASS!" He shouted as he pulled out his Malian Flame Spewing SMG and began to rain a storm of fire infused bullets down on the god molders, all while shouting some crazy gibberish. "HAHAHA! I'LL TAKE THE LIFE OUT OF YOUR JUICY MEAT BUCKETS AND SHOWER IN THE BLOOD OF ONE THOUSAND SCREAMING STARS! THE POOP TRAIN WILL LIVE ON!:" The Godmother had a human shield. No damage. Descartes said The Time Wizard uses his power to erase time, causing it so that the God Modern ever stepped out of the path of the vehicle. "Mud!" He cries. The Godmother has his time-proof underwear from the last battle still equipped, causing it not to effect him! Weiss Sch nee said "Sorry." Lina apologized to the one she hit. "He just brushes off attacks like nothing. If this keeps up I may have to get serious." By that she meet she would have to play her hand by chanting a more powerful spell. Bench said After having his wrist broken the green ranger played on the Dragon Dagger summoning the Fragonard. He jumped in the cockpit of the giant robot and tried to use its drill tipped tail to skewer the Godmother Fragonard summoned! Iron coat said A kid with silver hair throws a brick at God mod's head. The Godmother grabs the brick and hits the kid with it, knocking him out. rawkhawk64 said Hiroshi approached Lina. "I have a plan." he said to her. "I have a juts, Kazoo. If you aim the just into the air, I can redirect it behind the Godmother." he whispered. He'd learned from his last encounter, that the only way to best their foe was to work together. He shook his head. Then, from the seal that had appeared when the Paraná Path had been summoned, another wooden coffin appeared. Hiroshi used the Kazoo to warp over. When the coffin opened, Hiroshi placed another seal inside it. Hiroshi smirked. "The Animal Path. Able to summon a variety of animals." Hiroshi announced. The Animal Path moved out of the way, and began to prepare a summon. Hiroshi, meanwhile, warped back to Lina. "Just aim your next attack at the sky, and I shall try to take care of the rest." Hiroshi said, quickly making some hand seals. From the earth, to giant stone slabs reached up, planning on trapping the Godmother inside a hollow dome of earth. Hiroshi smirked. He hadn't even used very many juts last time... no, he still had some tricks up his sleeve... The Godmother is trapped for now! Ruronihs said Excellent, the godmother ignored the VHS tapes, just like the rest of the world. Before long, Memo was surrounded by some of the most beloved, and feared, characters of all time, cloned countless times for every frame in which they existed. "Yes, my legion! Now is the time to take back what is rightfully ours! Let us bring the age of digital media to the end and show the world what it means to have a hard copy!" The army let out a bloodthirsty cry, hailing Memo for his genius plan. "Now, begin phase 1: SATURDAY MORNING BLITZ!" With that 100 Spider men from the awesome Saturday morning cartoon began to swing around the godmother, spraying him with a relentless stream of webbing. Then, 53 Jackie Chan came flying in to unleash a wave of lungful fury; they were joined by 237 power rangers spanning all the generations, delivering a Sendai smackdown. Finally, every Autobot, every Deception, every Maximal, every Pokémon, and the American Godzilla all blasted the godmother with all of their combined lasers, missiles, and otherwise signature attacks. "HAHAHA THE PAIN IS JUST NOSTALGIA PUMMELING YOUR BODY!" The Godmother is trapped in the hollow dome! All the attacks shatter the dome instead of hitting the Godmother, breaking him out of the dome and doing no damage to the Godmother. Green said "FUCK TEAMWORK!" Psychic Fetus shouted, and threw a bunch of trees towards the godmother. The Godmother jumps around on them, letting them hit the VHS Army, causing massive damage! Dean said Jumping forward at the Godmother from out of a helicopter, Hosier Maximoff launched a series of quick jabs left and right toward the Godmother's jaw, he then followed this up by spinning his body entirely around and launched two fast roundhouse kicks using his right leg. The Godmother let the jabs hit him (doing no damage), but grabbed Hosier's leg, spinning him around and throwing him into the distance. Godmodder: 100/100Dragonzord: 5000/5000VHS Army: 9000/10000 Note [+] Please do not use formatting. It's not special, it doesn't make you special, and it doesn't quote very well. So don't. It was the third turn that Time Wizard was in play. It's about time we used his effect! Time Wizard used time warp, turning Baby Dragon Word into A Thousand Dragon Word, increasing its attack points by 2000! Drag smirked as he watched the bullets puncture the little man, and as this happened, the other Vault Hunters arrived. Maya, the siren, flicked her wrist in the direction of the godmother, raising her hand up in the air as she created her phase lock around the god fodder. Axton, the commando rushed in aft wars, throwing out his Sabre turret at the ground near the god fodder, beginning to rain bullets from his Hyperion rifle down on the Godmother from behind cover. While soon after Salvador, the Sunseeker, began underking, wielding two Vlad of spinning, firing as fast as the mechanized rifles could fire at the god fodder. Soon enough, Zero, the Assassin, made his appearance. With not but a sound, he used a projected image of himself and cloaked to get closer to stab the Godmother in the back with his Katina, while Deathtrap and Gauge, the Necromancer began their assault. Deathtrap firing his laser beam and Gauge throwing a couple of transfusion grenades and firing her Electrified Malian SMG. Prang grinned from behind his mask, while brandishing his Buzz axe. "ALRIGHT! TIME TO GET THIS PARTY STARTED!" He screamed as he ran at the Godmother, gettsxinging his Buzz axe in a downward arc to try and sever the Godmothers arm off. The little man appears in a cloud of smoke back in his woods. He sees a blood pool where he stood last, a small glowing mist above it. He had to re-collect his souls! He picked up his trusty club and attempts to sneak over while the commotion of battle happens. "YOU GOT LUCKY LITTLE MAN!" Memo shouted, frustrated that these inferior beings of the digital age were all flapping about the battlefield and interfering with his invincible army. "But no matter, he will die this time; KAI LAOS RUSH!" The ominous sound of booming brass played in the background as Japan's most dangerous giant monsters emerged from the horizon, finally ready to join the army. Godzilla, Roman, Angoras, Isidora, Biol ante, GIGN, Megaton, Mithra, Baby Mithra, Deborah, Mechagodzilla, Space Godzilla, and Destroy ah all appeared in triplicate to attack the godmother. The Spider men hopped aboard the Baby Mothers, spewing an even more intense stream of webbing as the Momma Mothers dropped a sleeping powder that the Romans turned into a sleeping powder tornado by coordinating the gusts of their mighty wings. The Mechagodzillas and Gliders joined forces with the transformers unleashing a volley of lasers and missiles that could only be quantified as A LOT. The Jackie Chan shopped on to of the Anguishes, Gigans and Megatons; when the nine Kiev delivered a ruthless barrage with their spiky appendages, the Jackie Chan jumped off to add some good old Kung Fu to the madness. The Biol antes all sent a barrage of hungry-choppy-mouth-tentacles into the mix. The Godzilla and Destroyers clashed in the middle of it all, causing the Godzilla' nuclear cores to reach critical mass, resulting in a triple Kiev nuclear blast. Finally, the Space Godzilla used their reflective crystal powers to contain and focus all the energy onto the godmother. "MERRY CHRISTMAS YOU FILTHY ANIMAL!" Thrown through the air at far distances, his palm would tighten into a fist, he then blew a small stream of wind against his back, this had slowed him down. He then floated in the air using the wind to spiral around his legs, saying "Let's see if you can handle this." Lifting one arm halfway up, a small column of wind swirled underneath the GM'S feet, until the column formed into a tornado that will cause him to spiral around. Cupping his hands while bringing them back as electricity had been generating from the air in between his palms. He thirsted forward launching the sphere directly at the tornado, to cause an electrical shock of a million volts. Once he landed on the ground he quickly threw his arms onto ground and added another shock of electricity from distances away, the lighting shot up from underneath the ground in columns of four. Ruronihs said "YOU GOT LUCKY LITTLE MAN!" Memo shouted, frustrated that these inferior beings of the digital age were all flapping about the battlefield and interfering with his invincible army. "But no matter, he will die this time; KAI LAOS RUSH!" The ominous sound of booming brass played in the background as Japan's most dangerous giant monsters emerged from the horizon, finally ready to join the army. Godzilla, Roman, Angoras, Isidora, Biol ante, GIGN, Megaton, Mithra, Baby Mithra, Deborah, Mechagodzilla, Space Godzilla, and Destroy ah all appeared in triplicate to attack the godmother. The Spider men hopped aboard the Baby Mothers, spewing an even more intense stream of webbing as the Momma Mothers dropped a sleeping powder that the Romans turned into a sleeping powder tornado by coordinating the gusts of their mighty wings. The Mechagodzillas and Gliders joined forces with the transformers unleashing a volley of lasers and missiles that could only be quantified as A LOT. The Jackie Chan shopped on to of the Anguishes, Gigans and Megatons; when the nine Kiev delivered a ruthless barrage with their spiky appendages, the Jackie Chan jumped off to add some good old Kung Fu to the madness. The Biol antes all sent a barrage of hungry-choppy-mouth-tentacles into the mix. The Godzilla and Destroyers clashed in the middle of it all, causing the Godzilla' nuclear cores to reach critical mass, resulting in a triple Kiev nuclear blast. Finally, the Space Godzilla used their reflective crystal powers to contain and focus all the energy onto the godmother. "MERRY CHRISTMAS YOU FILTHY ANIMAL!" "The god fodder steps out of the way." Descartes said It was the third turn that Time Wizard was in play. It's about time we used his effect! Time Wizard used time warp, turning Baby Dragon Word into A Thousand Dragon Word, increasing its attack points by 2000! What... what was the goal of this? Attack points? Unless you mean health points, and even if you did, that's not counting for anything. LeoricAquila said Drag smirked as he watched the bullets puncture the little man, and as this happened, the other Vault Hunters arrived. Maya, the siren, flicked her wrist in the direction of the godmother, raising her hand up in the air as she created her phase lock around the god fodder. Axton, the commando rushed in aft wars, throwing out his Sabre turret at the ground near the god fodder, beginning to rain bullets from his Hyperion rifle down on the Godmother from behind cover. While soon after Salvador, the Sunseeker, began underking, wielding two Vlad of spinning, firing as fast as the mechanized rifles could fire at the god fodder. Soon enough, Zero, the Assassin, made his appearance. With not but a sound, he used a projected image of himself and cloaked to get closer to stab the Godmother in the back with his Katina, while Deathtrap and Gauge, the Necromancer began their assault. Deathtrap firing his laser beam and Gauge throwing a couple of transfusion grenades and firing her Electrified Malian SMG. Prang grinned from behind his mask, while brandishing his Buzz axe. "ALRIGHT! TIME TO GET THIS PARTY STARTED!" He screamed as he ran at the Godmother, gettsxinging his Buzz axe in a downward arc to try and sever the Godmothers arm off. An ATT (Anti-Turret Turret) is deployed, busying the Sabre turret. The phase lock is ineffective, as the Godmother is too fast for it to take effect. The Godmother expected Zero's attack (having dealt with an enemy such as this before), and kicked him away. The laser and the transfusion grenades hit Drag, throwing him into Salvador and causing Salvador's guns to fire briefly at Axton. Stephen said The little man appears in a cloud of smoke back in his woods. He sees a blood pool where he stood last, a small glowing mist above it. He had to re-collect his souls! He picked up his trusty club and attempts to sneak over while the commotion of battle happens. Ruronihs said "YOU GOT LUCKY LITTLE MAN!" Memo shouted, frustrated that these inferior beings of the digital age were all flapping about the battlefield and interfering with his invincible army. "But no matter, he will die this time; KAI LAOS RUSH!" The ominous sound of booming brass played in the background as Japan's most dangerous giant monsters emerged from the horizon, finally ready to join the army. Godzilla, Roman, Angoras, Isidora, Biol ante, GIGN, Megaton, Mithra, Baby Mithra, Deborah, Mechagodzilla, Space Godzilla, and Destroy ah all appeared in triplicate to attack the godmother. The Spider men hopped aboard the Baby Mothers, spewing an even more intense stream of webbing as the Momma Mothers dropped a sleeping powder that the Romans turned into a sleeping powder tornado by coordinating the gusts of their mighty wings. The Mechagodzillas and Gliders joined forces with the transformers unleashing a volley of lasers and missiles that could only be quantified as A LOT. The Jackie Chan shopped on to of the Anguishes, Gigans and Megatons; when the nine Kiev delivered a ruthless barrage with their spiky appendages, the Jackie Chan jumped off to add some good old Kung Fu to the madness. The Biol antes all sent a barrage of hungry-choppy-mouth-tentacles into the mix. The Godzilla and Destroyers clashed in the middle of it all, causing the Godzilla' nuclear cores to reach critical mass, resulting in a triple Kiev nuclear blast. Finally, the Space Godzilla used their reflective crystal powers to contain and focus all the energy onto the godmother. "MERRY CHRISTMAS YOU FILTHY ANIMAL!" The VHS army gets tangled together from the sheer mass of them, obliterating them all with the Kiev nuclear blasts. Dean said Thrown through the air at far distances, his palm would tighten into a fist, he then blew a small stream of wind against his back, this had slowed him down. He then floated in the air using the wind to spiral around his legs, saying "Let's see if you can handle this." Lifting one arm halfway up, a small column of wind swirled underneath the GM'S feet, until the column formed into a tornado that will cause him to spiral around. Cupping his hands while bringing them back as electricity had been generating from the air in between his palms. He thirsted forward launching the sphere directly at the tornado, to cause an electrical shock of a million volts. Once he landed on the ground he quickly threw his arms onto ground and added another shock of electricity from distances away, the lighting shot up from underneath the ground in columns of four. The Godmother gets stuck in the tornado, but absorbed the electricity! The Godmother now has electricity powers! The Godmother attacks the Fragonard with his new powers, causing 500 damage! Godmodder (Electric Powers): 100/100Dragonzord: 4500/5000 NOTICE [+] I have a feeling that you guys didn't really read the notes at the beginning, because I believe I asked you not to respond with such long attacks. It only serves to confuse me and frustrate me, making me want to answer less and less. Also, check in on the IOC every once in a while. Tips and tricks might show up. The little man stands there, body signed black in a cartoon-issue fashion. Then he turned into a pile of ash. Again the poofs back nearby, and checks his forehead to see if his eyebrows were still there, and finds that they are. He glares and retreats back into the woods. He returns with 5 undead ghouls, all of them with snazzy fedoras, one of them with a baseball bat, another with a chain. The rest were slowly approaching, snapping their fingers to a suave jazz tune. "Impossible!" Memo cried, but just then a far more powerful force of media graced the world with its voice."YOU HAVE FAILED!" The Internet bellowed. "For your incompetence, I shall have a group of teenagers smashes you to pieces and post in on YouTube. Now begone!" With that a man with a sledgehammer unplugged Memo and took him to his doom. "Now I will show you how to deal with people like this!" The internet spawns to IP addresses. The first one contacts the mods, links them to the godmother's post history, and claims that he is violating the terms of service of the website. The second IP floods the godmother's inbox with all kinds of nasty messages, including, but not limited to, ad nominees, male genitalia, and death/rape threats. When he saw that he simply absorbed his ability he yelled "Damn it!" Hosier flew over using the wind around his feet to propel him forward and landed. Then immediately jumped forward slamming his right heel down against the Godmother's shoulder, he connected his heel kick with a slight lean sideways to kick him in the side of his eye with his left leg. Stephen said The little man stands there, body signed black in a cartoon-issue fashion. Then he turned into a pile of ash. Again the poofs back nearby, and checks his forehead to see if his eyebrows were still there, and finds that they are. He glares and retreats back into the woods. He returns with 5 undead ghouls, all of them with snazzy fedoras, one of them with a baseball bat, another with a chain. The rest were slowly approaching, snapping their fingers to a suave jazz tune. Undead Ghouls added! Ruronihs said "Impossible!" Memo cried, but just then a far more powerful force of media graced the world with its voice. "YOU HAVE FAILED!" The Internet bellowed. "For your incompetence, I shall have a group of teenagers smashes you to pieces and post in on YouTube. Now begone!" With that a man with a sledgehammer unplugged Memo and took him to his doom. "Now I will show you how to deal with people like this!" The internet spawns to IP addresses. The first one contacts the mods, links them to the godmother's post history, and claims that he is violating the terms of service of the website. The second IP floods the godmother's inbox with all kinds of nasty messages, including, but not limited to, ad nominees, male genitalia, and death/rape threats. The claims are dismissed by the mods, saying that he is well within his rights to do this! The Godmother doesn't have time to check his messages, he's currently tangled in a big of brawl! Godmodder: 100/100Dragonzord: 4500/5000Ghouls: 500/500 (100 per Ghoul) The group of snazzy ghouls approaches the godmother. "Sic em, fellas!" The little man shouts. The one with the chains attempt to strangle the godmother while the one with the baseball tries to attack the knees. The other 3 rush the godmother with pocket knives. He summons a large gust of wind that spirals around the godmother, Hosier then summons his Katina which he throws like a vertically throws like a boomerang. Another Katina is summoned, and he throws this one the same except horizontally, and another is thrown diagonally. Ken Masters launches a diagonal Hoboken and BYU fires a flaming Hoboken horizontally Leisure summons a fireball styleHosai discharges a lighting bolt from the sky then discharges a second bolt of lighting this time there are five bolts of lighting all aiming for him at once! He then, blows a column of wind vertically to blow him afar while he fired a ball of wind and electricity from behind him! The Internet spawns a Grammar Nazi, who proceeds to pick apart the godmother's last post despite the fact that everybody understood it perfectly. The Grammar Nazi scowls at the first fragment. Undead Ghouls added! "I think you mean 'Undead Ghouls WERE added!'" The claims are dismissed by the mods, saying that he is well within his rights to do this! "You've got a dangling participle here! As written, claims are saying you are well within your rights, which I am quite certain is not what you meant." Finally, the Nazi scoffs at the last sentence, not even bothering to quote it because he is clearly superior. "The comma should be a semicolon, and you need an apostrophe to show that you are using a contraction. If you're going to God-mod, at least do it in proper English!" The Internet hopes that his Nazi will be so annoying that he derails the godmother's train of thought, distracting him for at least one crucial moment. After all, who doesn't like telling Grammar Nazis to get a life? Lina watches everyone. While the Godmother is dealing with all the other combatants she decides it's time to pull out the big guns. While also following the concept no one should be as powerful as the Godmother however the spell she is planning is worth a try... She stands back and begins to prepare for a chant for a spell that hopefully will do some damage to the Godmother..." One who is darker than twilight One who is redder than flowing blood Buried in the flow of time..."(This will take a few posts to let off) "Somebody fuse with me! With our combined powers, we will defeat this phantom menace and rule the universe!" Psychic Fetus said. Using the fact that he will later gain different powers and words the green ranger summoned all the words that will be used by him as well as the words needed to create the original Ultracold which he quickly combined the Drazonzord with. Individual words [note: lots of images [+]] Original Ultracold [+] The REAL silver haired kid walked in and started the ancient rituals of The Summoning of Death;chanting and walking around aimlessly while surrounded by a psychic force field that deflects attacks. The ground around the seal rumbled again, and a third coffin rose up. The Paraná Path inserted the lunar with a seal for Hiroshi, and the Greta Path awakened. Hiroshi smirked, as this path took front and center along with him. "The Greta Path. Able to absorb any juts or energy techniques!" Hiroshi announced. He then smirked, making more hand seals." Fire Style: Phoenix Fire Juts!" Kiyoshi breathed out six fireballs, and then threw shrike into the fireballs. He then used his chakra to have the fireballs approach the Godmother. Even if the flames were extinguished, the shrike would continue to rush at the Godmother. Hiroshi predicted a 70% chance of success. However, just to make sure, Hiroshi used Kazoo to suck one into his alternate dimension, and then prepared to release it when the Godmother moved. Meanwhile, the Paraná Path began to summon the King of Hell statue, just in case any of the paths were lost in battle. Progress [+] Human Path: IIIIIAsura Path: IIIIIIDeva Path: IIIIIII Summons [+] Animal Path -Sgt; Giant Chameleon: IIIIIIIIIINaraka Path -Sgt; King of Hell Statue: IIIIIIIll A short woman of 5'4 with a lithe, curved body and ample breasts stepped up onto a cliff above. Her long ebony hair swaying and icy gray eyes narrowing. Maiden smirks, spying from above. "I will not get involved in this because I cannot be killed, and it would be futile to fight someone who claims this 'Godmother' title." She steps to the side allowing her hair to be swept aside slightly by the wind. "Hmph." Before I go on, I have to make a note. It seems that some of you have not read my last note. I will post it at the bottom here. And if I find that you keep ignoring it, then I'll ignore your attacks. I hate having to read a whole paragraph for a simple attack. I understand some people, attacking multiple times in a turn. But really. It just makes it a pain for me. Dean said When he saw that he simply absorbed his ability he yelled "Damn it!" Hosier flew over using the wind around his feet to propel him forward and landed. Then immediately jumped forward slamming his right heel down against the Godmother's shoulder, he connected his heel kick with a slight lean sideways to kick him in the side of his eye with his left leg. The Godmother, though stunned by the sudden and unexpected attack, takes no damage. Stephen said The group of snazzy ghouls approaches the godmother. "Sic em, fellas!" The little man shouts. The one with the chains attempt to strangle the godmother while the one with the baseball tries to attack the knees. The other 3 rush the godmother with pocket knives. The Godmother takes one damage from the chain, but recovers in time to destroy the Chain Ghoul and move away from the others quickly. Dean said He summons a large gust of wind that spirals around the godmother, Hosier then summons his Katina which he throws like a vertically throws like a boomerang. Another Katina is summoned, and he throws this one the same except horizontally, and another is thrown diagonally. Ken Masters launches a diagonal Hoboken and BYU fires a flaming Hoboken horizontally Leisure summons a fireball styleHosai discharges a lighting bolt from the sky then discharges a second bolt of lighting this time there are five bolts of lighting all aiming for him at once! He then, blows a column of wind vertically to blow him afar while he fired a ball of wind and electricity from behind him! The Godmother (with his newly obtained powers) is able to absorb the electricity, and the Godmother is able to narrowly avoid the flames and wind. The Godmother manages to catch the two Bananas, keeping them. "Do not throw away your weapons, fool!" furnish said The Internet spawns a Grammar Nazi, who proceeds to pick apart the godmother's last post despite the fact that everybody understood it perfectly. The Grammar Nazi scowls at the first fragment. "I think you mean 'Undead Ghouls WERE added!'" "You've got a dangling participle here! As written, claims are saying you are well within your rights, which I am quite certain is not what you meant." Finally, the Nazi scoffs at the last sentence, not even bothering to quote it because he is clearly superior. "The comma should be a semicolon, and you need an apostrophe to show that you are using a contraction. If you're going to God-mod, at least do it in proper English!" The Internet hopes that his Nazi will be so annoying that he derails the godmother's train of thought, distracting him for at least one crucial moment. After all, who doesn't like telling Grammar Nazis to get a life? The Godmother zaps the Grammar Nazi, paying him no more attention. Weiss Sch nee said Lina watches everyone. While the Godmother is dealing with all the other combatants she decides it's time to pull out the big guns. While also following the concept no one should be as powerful as the Godmother however the spell she is planning is worth a try... She stands back and begins to prepare for a chant for a spell that hopefully will do some damage to the Godmother... "One who is darker than twilight One who is redder than flowing blood Buried in the flow of time..."(This will take a few posts to let off) Green said "Somebody fuse with me! With our combined powers, we will defeat this phantom menace and rule the universe!" Psychic Fetus said. Bench said Using the fact that he will later gain different powers and words the green ranger summoned all the words that will be used by him as well as the words needed to create the original Ultracold which he quickly combined the Drazonzord with. Umm mm... Words added? All 8? Iron coat said The REAL silver haired kid walked in and started the ancient rituals of The Summoning of Death;chanting and walking around aimlessly while surrounded by a psychic force field that deflects attacks. rawkhawk64 said The ground around the seal rumbled again, and a third coffin rose up. The Paraná Path inserted the lunar with a seal for Hiroshi, and the Greta Path awakened. Hiroshi smirked, as this path took front and center along with him. "The Greta Path. Able to absorb any juts or energy techniques!" Hiroshi announced. He then smirked, making more hand seals. Hiroshi breathed out six fireballs, and then threw shrike into the fireballs. He then used his chakra to have the fireballs approach the Godmother. Even if the flames were extinguished, the shrike would continue to rush at the Godmother. Hiroshi predicted a 70% chance of success. However, just to make sure, Hiroshi used Kazoo to suck one into his alternate dimension, and then prepared to release it when the Godmother moved. Meanwhile, the Paraná Path began to summon the King of Hell statue, just in case any of the paths were lost in battle. The Godmother ducked under the flames, and promptly jumped to avoid the other shrike. Maiden said A short woman of 5'4 with a lithe, curved body and ample breasts stepped up onto a cliff above. Her long ebony hair swaying and icy gray eyes narrowing. Maiden smirks, spying from above. "I will not get involved in this because I cannot be killed, and it would be futile to fight someone who claims this 'Godmother' title." She steps to the side allowing her hair to be swept aside slightly by the wind. "Hmph." ... Um... Godmodder: 99/100Dragonzord: 4500/5000Zords: 4000/4000 (500 per Word)Ghouls: 400/500 (100 per Ghoul) READ THIS NOTE I SWEAR TO GOD [+] I have a feeling that you guys didn't really read the notes at the beginning, because I believe I asked you not to respond with such long attacks. It only serves to confuse me and frustrate me, making me want to answer less and less. Also, check in on the IOC every once in a while. Tips and tricks might show up. Also, go ahead and attack more than once in a turn. If someone has already posted, you can post again. Psychic Fetus reached his hands outwards. "Take my hands! We must combine our powers!" He shouted at everyone else. Hopefully, at least someone would do it. Creating a hand sign Hosier increased the GM'S molecules so that they explode, but just encased he avoided it somehow. He suddenly teleported and reverting the man's Shrike back at the godmother. While this happened, while three biological duplicates of Hosier had formed around the fodder. Each of them performed hand signs, once finished, three cannons the size of planet earth, had come down through the clouds. The three copies of Hosier each slammed their hands together at the same time each cannon launched three projectiles at a million miles per second. The copies all started to jump out of the way diagonally while the real Hosier teleported to where the newcomer was standing. "You know I don't think he is going to attack you first." He said while observing his attacks unfold. The little man picks up the chain from the ghoul. The rest of the ghouls look around and realize that some serious stuff is about to go down." Well done boys. Seems we're the only ones here competent enough to deal some damage, see? Mar," He speaks with a mafia 1940s accent. He hands the chain to another ghoul and takes out his club. "Crappy club," he says to himself." Say, give me your pocket knife, see? Mar," The ghoul hands him his pocket knife, at which he violently shoves the knife into the club, handle first. Now there is a small blade sticking out of his club. One ghoul looks at him, confused." Better than nothin'" The little man says in reply." Anyway, follow that Godmother!" The ghouls move out with the same attack pattern as before, this time happening all at once to prevent the godmother from escaping, and the little man participating. Time Wizard summons his TARDIS! He returns with Chuck Norris and Arnold Schwarzenegger in their prime. The three team up to take down the God Modern. "In thy great name, I hereby pledge myself to darkness Those who stand before us in our way All those who have become fools..." Lina continues her chant... Since attacking with the Ultracold would be obvious, The green Ranger instead sneaked into the giant red car and simply attempted to run the Godmother over The silver haired kid summons Hood:The God of Death and within a funnel of great dark storm clouds;unleashes the God's full wrath upon God mod! "Those who stand before us in our way All those who have become fools..." Lina repeated that line as she would wait to complete her chant for the others to attack the Godmother in effect using them all as a diversion for the most part. Green said Psychic Fetus reached his hands outwards. "Take my hands! We must combine our powers!" He shouted at everyone else. Hopefully, at least someone would do it. Hah. Dean said Creating a hand sign Hosier increased the GM'S molecules so that they explode, but just encased he avoided it somehow. He suddenly teleported and reverting the man's Shrike back at the godmother. While this happened, while three biological duplicates of Hosier had formed around the fodder. Each of them performed hand signs, once finished, three cannons the size of planet earth, had come down through the clouds. The three copies of Hosier each slammed their hands together at the same time each cannon launched three projectiles at a million miles per second. The copies all started to jump out of the way diagonally while the real Hosier teleported to where the newcomer was standing. "You know I don't think he is going to attack you first." He said while observing his attacks unfold. The Godmother's molecules increase, but only makes him temporarily giant! The Giant Godmother kills the three duplicates, and swats the cannons out of the sky before they even get close. Stephen said The little man picks up the chain from the ghoul. The rest of the ghouls look around and realize that some serious stuff is about to go down." Well done boys. Seems we're the only ones here competent enough to deal some damage, see? Mar," He speaks with a mafia 1940s accent. He hands the chain to another ghoul and takes out his club. "Crappy club," he says to himself." Say, give me your pocket knife, see? Mar," The ghoul hands him his pocket knife, at which he violently shoves the knife into the club, handle first. Now there is a small blade sticking out of his club. One ghoul looks at him, confused." Better than nothin'" The little man says in reply." Anyway, follow that Godmother!" The ghouls move out with the same attack pattern as before, this time happening all at once to prevent the godmother from escaping, and the little man participating. The Godmother kicks the Ghouls and the little man away. Descartes said Time Wizard summons his TARDIS! He returns with Chuck Norris and Arnold Schwarzenegger in their prime. The three team up to take down the God Modern. The Godmother sets up an ACN (Anti-Chuck Norris Gun), halting Chuck Norris. Arnold Schwarzenegger is nothing, and is crushed beneath the Godmother's foot. Weiss Sch nee said "In thy great name, I hereby pledge myself to darkness Those who stand before us in our way All those who have become fools..." Lina continues her chant... Bench said Since attacking with the Ultracold would be obvious, The green Ranger instead sneaked into the giant red car and simply attempted to run the Godmother over The Godmother is giant, the giant car just seeming like an RC vehicle. Iron coat said The silver haired kid summons Hood:The God of Death and within a funnel of great dark storm clouds;unleashes the God's full wrath upon God mod! The Godmother sits down and spends a good while chatting with Hood, convincing him to work alongside the Godmother. Hood added! Weiss Sch nee said "Those who stand before us in our way All those who have become fools..." Lina repeated that line as she would wait to complete her chant for the others to attack the Godmother in effect using them all as a diversion for the most part. Hood attacks the Fragonard, dealing a whopping 1000 damage! The Forces Against the Godmother (from now on the FAG), team up and attack Hood, dealing 1000 damage![GM]Godmother: 99/100Hood: 9000/10000[FAG]Fragonard: 3500/5000Zords: 4000/4000 (500 per Word)Ghouls: 400/500 (100 per Ghoul) In one moment, just as the battling took a momentary standstill as Hood was attacked, a deep pulsation emanated from everywhere and nowhere all at once as a man long since forgotten took notice of the battle which currently took place in this realm. With the audible manifestation of this pulsation there came a brief change of scenery as the sky flashed with a dull red light and a group of thick red clouds began to appear; blanketing the horizon in just a few moments. The man was a being above the physical plain and as such chose to simply force his energy upon the realm for the time being, an energy which currently danced through and along the surface of the blood-red clouds above. All at once this energy became focused above one of the men the others focused on, the would-be Death God known as Hood, and released a destructive volley of thick red lightning bolts. There was more than just the color which made these bolts special and while the added effect of causing madness would be lost on Hood, the increase in power would be all that was required. Five bolts rocketed down towards the earth in an octagon pattern, each traveling only half the speed of a normal lightning bolt, leaving behind a trail of the thick red energy they comprised. There trajectories were misleading, they were set up to imply a type of seal or other form of trickery but just before impact their paths would change, each aiming for the midsection of Hoods body from differing angles. The power they possessed was double that of an ordinary bolt of lightning and upon impact they release an explosive force similar to a hand grenade, explosions which saturate the air with this strange energy. The time from release to impact would be less than 2 seconds, but impact was not necessary for a follow-up technique.(See IOC after reading.) The little man skids along the ground. The rest of the ghouls still push forward, and the ghoul that was pushed down with the Little man gets up and attacks. It forms somewhat of a conga line of imminent casualties. "Merge thy power and mine To grant destruction equally to all!!DRAGON SLAVE!" Lina finished her chant at last then unleashed a huge magical blast at the Godmother. She hoped it would at least weaken him. If this missed she was in danger of her magical power weakening significantly. The kid stared at God mod in disbelief, then an idea struck him. Smiling, he walked over to Hood and crushed a black flower." I name you Hood, Keeper of Souls, Bane of Life and bind you by the power of the death flower to stand down!" He shouted. This time it was Factual - one of the mightiest mages of the vampire kin - who dared challenge the dreaded Godmother. Those, who would notice the ominous, dark clouds gathering above the vampire's titanic opponent may misinterpret it as a natural occurrence - yet this was no ordinary bad weather. Boiling out all the water in a nearby lake, he summoned both cold and hot winds to create a small, discreet rainstorm - though, at the same time, quite an intense one. It broke out, and Factual left his vantage point, ready to carry on his mischievous ploy. With an intent to use the Godmothers' weight to his advantage, the mage used his powers to get a grip on all the clay buried in the soil beneath his enemy and heave it upwards - as if thirsty, it absorbed all the rainwater in mere seconds, turning into a sticky clay syrup eager to swallow up the behemoth trampling on it. The man grabbed a small stick and poke the god fodder. A small dark-blue dragon attempts to peck at the GM's eyes by flying at a very high speed towards him. Suddenly, high above the heads of all combatants, the sun gained sentience. Looking down at the arena, it saw the battle and, with a fire burning in its belly (get it? GET IT?!), it directed its thermonuclear energy behind itself, propelling itself towards the battle. Since its heat was directed behind itself, it prevented the arena from burning up. Once the sentient sun reached the distance of the moon, destroying it, the sun looked down and said in a thunderous voice,"And boom goes the dynamite." The sun then imploded on itself, becoming a black hole. Xavier Bloodline said In one moment, just as the battling took a momentary standstill as Hood was attacked, a deep pulsation emanated from everywhere and nowhere all at once as a man long since forgotten took notice of the battle which currently took place in this realm. With the audible manifestation of this pulsation there came a brief change of scenery as the sky flashed with a dull red light and a group of thick red clouds began to appear; blanketing the horizon in just a few moments. The man was a being above the physical plain and as such chose to simply force his energy upon the realm for the time being, an energy which currently danced through and along the surface of the blood-red clouds above. All at once this energy became focused above one of the men the others focused on, the would-be Death God known as Hood, and released a destructive volley of thick red lightning bolts. There was more than just the color which made these bolts special and while the added effect of causing madness would be lost on Hood, the increase in power would be all that was required. Five bolts rocketed down towards the earth in an octagon pattern, each traveling only half the speed of a normal lightning bolt, leaving behind a trail of the thick red energy they comprised. There trajectories were misleading, they were set up to imply a type of seal or other form of trickery but just before impact their paths would change, each aiming for the midsection of Hoods body from differing angles. The power they possessed was double that of an ordinary bolt of lightning and upon impact they release an explosive force similar to a hand grenade, explosions which saturate the air with this strange energy. The time from release to impact would be less than 2 seconds, but impact was not necessary for a follow-up technique.(See IOC after reading.) Assuming that was directed to Hood, Hood takes a large 1000 damage! Stephen said The little man skids along the ground. The rest of the ghouls still push forward, and the ghoul that was pushed down with the Little man gets up and attacks. It forms somewhat of a conga line of imminent casualties. Aaaaaaaand that was pointless. Since you didn't attack. Weiss Sch nee said "Merge thy power and mine To grant destruction equally to all!!DRAGON SLAVE!" Lina finished her chant at last then unleashed a huge magical blast at the Godmother. She hoped it would at least weaken him. If this missed she was in danger of her magical power weakening significantly. The Godmother is hit, being stunned for one more attack! Iron coat said The kid stared at God mod in disbelief, then an idea struck him. Smiling, he walked over to Hood and crushed a black flower." I name you Hood, Keeper of Souls, Bane of Life and bind you by the power of the death flower to stand down!" He shouted. Hood ignored the kid, his contract with the Godmother being binding in any circumstances, fail-safes all around. Jordan said This time it was Factual - one of the mightiest mages of the vampire kin - who dared challenge the dreaded Godmother. Those, who would notice the ominous, dark clouds gathering above the vampire's titanic opponent may misinterpret it as a natural occurrence - yet this was no ordinary bad weather. Boiling out all the water in a nearby lake, he summoned both cold and hot winds to create a small, discreet rainstorm - though, at the same time, quite an intense one. It broke out, and Factual left his vantage point, ready to carry on his mischievous ploy. With an intent to use the Godmothers' weight to his advantage, the mage used his powers to get a grip on all the clay buried in the soil beneath his enemy and heave it upwards - as if thirsty, it absorbed all the rainwater in mere seconds, turning into a sticky clay syrup eager to swallow up the behemoth trampling on it. The Godmother uses his lightning to flash-fry the clay, then smashing it with his hands before it does anything. CoryInTheHouse said The man grabbed a small stick and poke the god fodder. The Godmother doesn't feel a thing. Reckon said A small dark-blue dragon attempts to peck at the GM's eyes by flying at a very high speed towards him. The Godmother swats it out of the sky. Dingo said Suddenly, high above the heads of all combatants, the sun gained sentience. Looking down at the arena, it saw the battle and, with a fire burning in its belly (get it? GET IT?!), it directed its thermonuclear energy behind itself, propelling itself towards the battle. Since its heat was directed behind itself, it prevented the arena from burning up. Once the sentient sun reached the distance of the moon, destroying it, the sun looked down and said in a thunderous voice,"And boom goes the dynamite." The sun then imploded on itself, becoming a black hole. The Godmother fires all of his lightning, feeding the black hole beyond its capabilities. The black hole disappears, but the Godmother has lost his lightning powers. The Giant Godmother crushes the Red Car Word, while Hood attacks the Fragonard and deals 1000 damage! The Fragonard retaliates, dealing 500 damage to Hood![GM]Godmother: 99/100Hood: 7500/10000[FAG]Fragonard: 2500/5000Zords: 3500/4000 (500 per Word)Ghouls: 400/500 (100 per Ghoul) Lina was surprise her attack hit. She had not expected such a powerful attack to work on the Godmother. Unluckily however she moved away from the battle so she could recharge her MANA and closed her eyes. She would rejoin when her MANA was at full. Mana: 40/100 (charging)(each minor spell costs 10... Dragon Slave 40) (Oi sorry I haven't managed to put up a post yet. It kind of slipped my mind.... X_X So I'm going to use the same Amethyst as last time... Helene)Amethyst stepped out from behind the tree where she had been hiding. She strung her bow and fired three arrows at the godmother and his creature...thing who was apparently named Hood. After the arrows were fired off, Amethyst ducked behind her tree again and began summoning her army of adorable puppies! Summoning Puppies: 25% complete The kid scowled again, sat down and aimlessly started to chuck rocks at Hood and GM. Hiroshi saw Amethyst appear. He remembered her from their last battle. As the Human Path was summoned (and bound by the Paraná Path), Hiroshi used Kazoo to warp to her location. He approached, and tossed his headband down so it landed in front of her. "Princess Amethyst. I see we battle together again." Hiroshi said, as he focused chakra to the all-white eye on his forehead. "Bakunin!" The Human Path charged at Hood, attempting to grab its soul out in order to get rid of the entity quickly. Hiroshi, meanwhile, unleashed some Amaterasu flames at the Godmother, aimed at his midsection. If the flames connected, they wouldn't stop burning until their target was a pile of ash. Progress [+] Aura Path: IIIIIIDeva Path: IIIIIII Summons [+] Animal Path -Sgt; Giant Chameleon: IIIIIIIIIINaraka Path -Sgt; King of Hell Statue: IIIIIIIIl Lina stayed in her meditative state as the attacks were unleashed. Mana recharge: 50/100 With direct contact having been made by the lightning and the following explosions Hood would have found himself virtually entirely saturated with the dark red energy which had been used to create these attacks. This was all that was required for a near instantaneous follow-up attack once it was apparent that Hood had survived and a snap could be heard echoing throughout the realm, which triggered a change in the energy. All at once the thick and once harmless energy suddenly erupted into a dark red flame, a flame which required no oxygen to remain lit only a physical surface on which to burn until there was nothing left. If all went well Hood would be caught within this inferno upon every inch that had come into contact with the energy. "... So. We meet again, Comrades. And against a foe so familiar?" A voice rang out, accent thick... And with it came the storm. The mightiest of snowstorms. Impel'Some Tallest' had returned, recognizing an old foe having done the same, and a comrade alike having appeared. The man was all business this time though, his dear Sniper rifle Svetlana already in hand, and armoring systems already at mobility phase. He was currently at a good distance from The Godmother though, at a hillside roughly 3/4 a mile off. The Russian had stood tall, though his ever-present vodka bottle was within his other hand. He took but a moments swig, before dropping to his belly."... You escaped before, vrag, but you will not escape again. For the Great Motherland...!" With his outcry, the man cocked his rifle. The weapon clearly was not of this time though; Many a dial and lever was upon it, and just under the scope a small panel. A few adjustments of each and the intended bullet was modded to shotgun out on first impact, and have each shard explode on second. The man took aim to the godmothers chest... And pulled his trigger.(So I'm not sure if my account got deleted or what, but I had to make this one... Rawk and Izaak will recognize me, alongside a few others.) Lina grumbled as she heard a loud voice that addressed the Godmother and opening one eye growled before going back to meditating. Mana charge:80/100 A massive anomaly appears over the atmosphere around the battleground. Something large and great in number was appearing, but nobody could tell what. ANOMALY PROGRESS: 1/15UPDATE:The Godmother's absence has advanced the anomaly's progress!ANOMALY PROGRESS: 3/15.UPDATE #2:The Godmother's absence has advanced the anomaly's progress!ANOMALY PROGRESS: 5/15. (Yeah, I don't think Izaak will let that fly.) (So...) A clone of Prius uses kazoo with his sharing an, teleporting to godmother then uses ninjutsu to trap and readies a black rasengan-hits god fodder in the heart, after that Reagan he flips over godmother and disperses Meats aimed at god fodder as fadingOriux stays hidden while morphing to the hermit of the six pathsUpdate60%-MORPHING The ginger stares at the GM, willing his soul to come to his grasp. While doing this, he began looking around for any other souls to steal... The boy faced the godmother and with his one hand he would command the vectors that surround his very being thrusting a forced displacement of space within itself, traveled. Space was fired at the godmother and if to reach him, would consume his profile entirely. Once space would find itself in that parcel it would be triplicated in total weight ergo crushing the godmother's frame. An undeniable essence of finality escaping the vacuum. Reese rolled in on a spinning chair, spinning while playing Digimon. He had a tower shield on his back, and a fucking huge hammer by his side, held loosely by the handle. The hammer was also a stereo, and it started blasting out, 'Hit me with your best shot.' Reese looked at the godmother in the eye for a sec, then went back to playing his game. He rolled close, about three feet away, and pulled out two coconuts, both with straws in them, and he started to drink out of one. He held out the other to the godmother, offering it. "Coconut?" Should the godmother refuse, he'd just offer it around to others around until someone accepted it. If nobody accepted it, he'd keep it by his side and wait until he was finished his first before touching the second. Oh, and the anomaly's size had suddenly gone to um... a fraction of what it started off as, as soon as Reese entered. Hint, fucking hint. A man with white angel wings suddenly appears above the god fodder and sends javelins made of heavenly energy rushing towards him A lavender haired boy with dull eyes, entered the battle, adorning yellow gloves, a red headband, and a blue hooded sweatshirt accompanied by black sneakers and trousers. The boy put a football helmet on top of his head, placed both his hands on the ground, and scrapped the earth with his hind leg preparing a devastating attack. Harley's Stats [+] Health: 100/100Energy: 30/50"MANA": 19/20Debuffs: Stalled [Charging]Buffs: None A Derby dude guy arrives! ((Die double post die!)) Rubí Xingu Bang sat, as if in Meditation as she observed the fight from afar. Not by choice, engaging in this sort of pointless combat (and as far as her golden eyes could see, the fight was quite pointless) held no interest to her. Nevertheless, she had been ordered to watch "Until it concluded." Which, she thought as her tail flitted back and forth, was taking entirely too long. Every attack, regardless of scale or strength was either dodged or parried. Conversely, this "Godmother" never seemed to retaliate in kind, at most redirecting the initial assailants attack towards another. Thus, this particular bout seemed as if it would go on for all time, with no possible ending whatsoever. A thought that filled Rubí with no small amount of despair. Character dialog. Huh, I faced bigger numbers in Tropes Actual Stuff:I come into the battlefield, piercing the Hood so strongly, my sword gets stuck in the ground. I then transform it back to its gem form, and put it in its place on the back of my hand. Summons:1/25How many charges are we allowed to charge a turn? THIS IS A DEAD ROLEPLAYPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING THIS IS A DEAD ROLEPLAYPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING THIS IS A DEAD ROLEPLAYPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING I don't know if any of you guys remember me, but I'm Izaak Grey, starter of the original Destroy the Godmother thread on the old site. It got abandoned after a while, but now with the new site I'm starting over. As the site improves in all of its wonder, I'll hopefully make this whole thing a bit more complex (as it was last time). Go ahead and chat it up in the IOC, and attack in the IC. Everyone's welcome here. So can we have like anyone or anything to represent us? Like an avatar as I see some people have done? Yeah, that's good. Pretty much anything goes here. Just follow the rules, and die fighting. WEEE, this will be fun, I can be whoever I want, whenever I want, where ever I want, what ever I want, however I want and why ever I want Except for being a Godmother. True point LeoricAquila said WEEE, this will be fun, I can be whoever I want, whenever I want, where ever I want, what ever I want, however I want and why ever I want Lol Logic. This is fun i wouldn't mind teaming up with a few brawlers. Hah, just realized Step was playing a Deprived. Better watch out; he might lag stab the godmother. Remember. If you guys are getting angry and feel this is unfair, that is the entire point. The Godmother cannot play fair, in any case whatsoever. And yes, the Godmother will gain powers as this goes on. Be clever, use summons, bring things in from fandoms if you want. Use anything at your disposal. Or else it all gets stale. ;P I'm going for summoning. And some team effort! Eh, there's not really a point to seriously trying to "win." I'm just having fun writing over-the-top nonsense that would never occur in any other RP. Ha. On another forum, somebody legitimately contacted the admins of the forum to report the guy who was the Godmother. Needless to say it failed, and the guy who contacted the admins actually got a temp-ban for both being a jerk and not looking at the rules and such. That's pretty hilarious. Soon, the League of Sophisticated Undead Mobster Gentlemen will succeed in taking down the godmother. Aww, no Giant dads? Haha, nothing by themselves can take down the GM. It'll take a long time, and a lot of firepower. Then I'll increase his molecules until he explodes Rosewood... *evil chuckle* DON'T GIVE THE MAN ANY IDEAS!!!! You will go down! Not easily. No one feed him anything! I find it funny that the godmother took no damage from these immortal god monsters of epic proportions, but then some weak undead ghoul goes at him, with nothing but a chain, a fedora, and some class, and he takes his first damage. Hit or not he needs to be killed. If we think of a team formation move that outsmarts the fodder I think it'll kill them. To hell with teamwork! Fuse with the fetus! Pregnant powers! Honest tip here, use teamwork to stun him and then attack him. AND SUMMON SUMMON SUMMON!!! Summons are probably the most important thing! Don't listen to him. Teamwork never works! Go solo, YOLO! In fact, everybody should attack him at the same time with different types of attacks. That way he can use them against you. Yay. This thread is good fun. I enjoy it. Summoning doesn't seem to matter. I kinda summoned half the cast of Godzilla. Nothing happened. I agree this is fun. Taking a gamble and tossing some powerful stuff at the Godmother is fun also. Just to be clear I did summon all 8 words, but that was mainly to quickly switch up between them in case one was destroyed or in attempt to confuse the Godmother by switching at random. I might use one or two in one turn but never all eight Well, I think we should also (whether it be here or IC) give the others an idea as to our character's capabilities. I wish I could refer everyone to the last thread, as Hiroshi's abilities are the same as that one. However, here are a few of his abilities:Eternal Angelo Sharing an (4 eyes in one, actually): Capable of using the following Juts: Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi, Kazoo (teleportation and intangibility), Susan'o (a summon), Izanagi, Izanami (last two at the cost of permanent sight in the eye). Rinnegan: Grants him the Six Paths Technique, able to see all forms of chakra/energy, able to use and master the five nature transformations that make up basic ninjutsu, able to summon and control the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path. As you saw earlier Maximoff can control wind, electricity to a limited degree, and teleport distances from where he stands such as what he did in my previous post. His new skills consist of a molecular increase in atoms inside the body of a person or animal, molecular duplication clones act independent of each other, he can create certain forms of matter like the three cannons that came from the sky. Telekinesis except time travel, can create Sonic weapons, move objects, deflect projectiles, and increase his own molecules for added speed, reflexes, and strength. Lastly, he can transfer I energy into an object, projectile, or person. I basically figured my green ranger would have his canon abilities: enhanced strength, and defense thanks to the suit. Also, the gold colored which he can transfer to others, increases healing speed. His weapon the dragon dagger a summon the Fragonard as well as fire green concussive blasts of energy. And like every power ranger back he can teleport. The only additional power I have given him is to summon every personal word belonging Tommy Oliver the canon green ranger. Technical the ultracold could be summoned by any mm Power ranger. Zord's abilities are in the same order as the pictures The Ulterior can fire from the Fragonard's fingers, as well from Titans' mouth shoulder cannons and chest piece. For those who don't know Titans is the gain robot long neck. I have edited the post I summoned it in so that those curious can now see what the Ultracold looks like. The white tigerzord has two modes, in tiger mode It can not only move fast, but also fire powerful sonic blasts. In warrior (humanoid) mode the tail becomes a sword, and it can fire fireballs from the tiger's mouth. White shogunzord: Simply a giant robot armed with Tonga;the Falconry can shoot powerful beams from its mouth, and it could also shoot missiles from its wingtip cannons. The red zero word is simply a robotic falcon. The red Battledore has massive pistons for repetitive punching attacks, with blasters around its fists for long-range strikes. The red super zero word has no special abilities either The red turboprop is simply a giant 900 tons racecar And finally the Brachiopod can fire lightning bolts from it’s mouth This is all humorous and what not, but I feel if you (Soon to book) were to take your attacks a little more seriously such as theUchihafellow you could be a little more successful. I'll give it a shot, see what I can contribute to this hectic war. AFTER IC POST UPDATE apologize ahead of time if that come out confusing; this is my first time starting out with an attack and I already have issues with starting posts. Basic rundown of the 'strange energy'. It's known as 'Dread Energy' and is a custom energy. I realize that you are a 'God Fodder' so its exact traits may be wasted here, but it's intended to only be controlled by the wielder (Whose name issupposedto be Xavier, but I backtracked Xavier recently so he will remain nameless). I also read before that you said to refrain from complicated attacks, if what I wrote falls in that category let me know, and I can tweak it. If you need any other information let me know. And to everyone else: Mr. Nameless doesn't make allies lol. *facepalm* I'll let this one go, but if you could shorten up your posts, it'd be considerably helpful. You don't need to change this one, just in the future refrain from such long and complicated. Yeah, I tried my best to shorten it, it's significantly shorter than any post I would make normally. I will focus more on the attacks themselves from here on rather than beauty of them lol. Thanks. I know some people don't like to give short replies, but it is a bit tiring to have to read through two or three paragraphs to get a single attack. Haha, but it's good. Yeah, no I understand completely, you have multiple posts to read through at any given time so the shorter, the better. Thanks lol. I look forward to the strange dance of power that's going to go on from here on out lol I think we should summon all the gods and shit at once as a mass attack. This is either a good idea or bad since if God mod turns 'em all against us, we'll be totally screwed, so...should we put it down to a vote or something? IMHO, bad idea. Be creative - forcing the Godmother into the corner, or simply earning Izaak's appreciation with a thought-through and interesting attack is what I think will work best for us. Thought-through and interesting doesn't mean long, remember. Izaak Grey said Thought-through and interesting doesn't mean long, remember. Shut up I know! Lol So, we doing this? Thai Izaak. Remember me, from the old site? I'm in if you're not too far in yet. It's free for anyone to join at any time. 3 Jordan said It's free for anyone to join at any time. 3 Except goblins >.> filthy creatures. Hey, Amethyst! Yeah, you're welcome to join in whenever you want. Impel'Some and his Rifle have returned to the fray. Did this RP die? ... Time for Reese to make an entrance. You may or may not like his antics, but he'll probably be the one to destroy the godmother. Izaak? THIS ROLE-PLAY IS DISPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING THIS ROLE-PLAY IS DISPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING THIS ROLE-PLAY IS DISPLEASE STOP THE NECROPOSTING I've started Destroy the Godmother v2.0 again, if anyone wants to go there:

Destroy the Godmodder|rating:3.0

Camping trip (closed)

IOC: This thread is closed for Marcs2 and i.IC: Holly. 5ft 3in 130lbs. Long blonde hair green eyes. The lake looked lovely this year. Holly couldn't wait to set up camp. It had been awhile since she had been camping. Driving down the road she found a nice secluded spot, with plenty of shade, and sand. Looking down the beach a little ways she could see a few vehicle. It looked like some people were having a party farther down. Setting up her Tent, and getting everything taken care of. Holly decided to go for a swim. Laying her towel on the picknick table in her area. She stepped out of her white short's and her Sanders. Her swimsuit was white a white two peace. Mike Mike. 6 foot 180 IBS. Light blue eyes and hard body.~Mike AHD traveled here with a big group of people. Many he didn't know. A lot of them were drunk, and he didn't want to be a part of it so he went down by the lake. No one was around so he didn't see a reason why he could jump in. It looked deep enough. He took most of his clothing except his boxers off and dove into the water and found the water very deep. He went to the bottom and stayed there, looking around, finding it amazing. Furthermore, he didn't realize someone else was about to join him~ Holly dove under the water so she didn't see the other gentleman when she came up for air. In front of him. Seeing the look on his face Holly laughed because she imaged the look was similar to her own.Oh, I am sorry ........i didn't see you. "Oh, no worries. I didn't see you either, so, really, it wasn't either of our faults..."~for some reason, in his mind, he told himself the had to know who this woman was, but he was unsure~"Um, you don't mind if I swim around for a while? The party was getting boring..." Not at all. I don't own the lake..., and i would mind some company. Holly said with a smile. Swimming around a little more before heading back to where she could at least touch bottom. She never had been a good swimmer, but she loved the water, and being out at the lake. It just brought a since of peace. So what made you decide to leave your friends?? Well, really, there not all my friends, actually, only one for them is my friend...~shrugged as he flipped in the water. He had swum for the school he was in but now that he was out, he didn't swim much~What about you? What brings you out into the dark and wild life? Ohh nothing much. I used to come camping here when I was younger, and I wanted to come camping again before I moved to a little larger town. Holly said swimming back words him she asked.Won't your friend miss you? I could walk back, and hang out with you for a while if you like. Actually, there pretty drunk. I would rather not bring you into it. I wouldn't even know what they would do to you. Hell, I don't even know your name. I'm Mike.~he said swimming over to her~ No problem. I am Holly nice to meet you Mike. You thirsty? I have Dr. Peper, water and Coke. She said swimming back words shore. ~he started to follow her and then realized he was only in his boxers. He blushed singly but followed her up the shore~Sure, Coke sounds good The water was starting to get cold as the sun was setting. Smiling as they both came out of the water. Holly grabbed him an extra towel. Grabbing herself a Dr. Peper, and a Coke for him. Wrapping her own towel around her waist she walked over to the picknick table and sat down. Thinking that she would need to get a fire going soon. So what do you do for a living? I'm actually an artist... I know, I don't seem to be one, but I am. What about you?~taking the coke from her, he took it and popped the top and took a swig and sighed as it passed down his throat~ Smiling Holly replied. I am going to be a Teacher., but first I have to move to the city so I can Finnish my class's. I only have 5 corses left. Looking out over the lake Holly watched as the sun set. It was beautiful the colors against the sky, and the gold dancing across the water. Looking back at Mike she asked. You look cold do you have some cloths? I could make a fire. I brought some logs with me. Oh, um, yeah... I kinda left my clothes over on the other side. If you give me a couple of minutes I can get some clothes over here~he said as he looked at her and stood. There was a bulge, but he turned and away and shook the images away from his mind as he dropped her towel on the chair and dove back into the warm water and swam across the lake~I just met her, jeez, and I am already had erotic fantasy's of her. Forget it Mike! It won't happen!~he kept telling himself as he got towards the other end. He went up onto shore and picked up his clothes. He tried to swim with his hands above water and somehow made it back without an erection so it was all good. Furthermore, he went up onto shore again and started to dry off with the towel~Okay, I'm good Holly blushed when he stood up and dove into the lake. She wouldn't have minded giving him a ride over to the other side. She wouldn't have minded a lot of things. Shaking her head. "don't even think about its girl. You don't even know if he is married or not. He could have kids. So forget it." she thought to herself. It was dark now, and she hoped he would make it ok. "I should have offer him a ride."she thought watching the water for signs of him. Getting up she dried the rest of the way off, and slid her shorts on, as well as a light pink tang top. Pulling her hair back into a scrunchy so it wouldn't get in the way. She walked over Grabbing one of the logs she brought out of the back of her truck. She just got the fire going when he came out of the water. Smiling when she saw him she said. Welcome back. Glad to be back Molly~he tried to say in a low voice but ended up laughing and sighing. He had a beer, but it seemed like it was getting to him. He looked down and realized that this was his only pair of boxers. Furthermore, he looked around and spotted a bush and went behind it. Furthermore, he took his boxers off, noticing his dick grow slowly. Furthermore, he quickly pulled his shorts on, going commando and putting his shirt on after he dried off. Furthermore, he went back around~Ok, I think I'm good now.... Holly smiled when he went around behind the bush. It was hard for her not to peek, but she didn't instead she tended to the fire adding smaller branches to the log to keep it going. Seeing him come around the bush. She looked him up and down. He was a very handsome man. Smiling and blushing at some of the thoughts running through her head. She asked. If your hungry I could fix us something to eat? Looking back at the fire she Waite for his reply. That would be wonderful Holly~he smiled as he walked closer. He rubbed his bare hands. They were worn out from putting up all the tents, but he was used to the pain. He sat on a chair that had been set up by her~So, what made you come out here again? I wanted to do some camping before going to the city and finishing my Teaching degree. She said as she got out a skillet, hamburger and other items she would need. I am surprised your friend isn't looking for you. But then if he is as drunk as you say he's probably passed out. How many hamburgers would you like? She asked setting the skillet on a grate she had placed over the fire. If you want to help. There are some chips, and bred in the second cooler over there. The one next to the pop. She said flipping the hamburgers. ~he did want to help but he knew one reason why he had left. Not only were most of them drunk, they had brought there girlfriends along. Himself, he didn't have one.~Well, actually, he's probably drunk with his girlfriend, he won't realize I'm gone till probably morning. I'll take one thank you.~he went over to the cooler and got out the chips and the bread. He went back over and set them on the tables he had noticed. They were portable so he set'em up to be easier for them~Not to be rude but, why didn't you bring anyone along yourself? Laughing she said. Who me?? Guess I never found the right version. Most guys I know are total jerks. She said. Taking the skillet off of the grate, and carrying it over to the picknick table. Setting it on a towel she had spread out earlier, so the skillet didn't melt the paint on the table. Help yourself the hamburgers are done. I hope you like them well done I forgot to ask before I started cooking. She said going over to the cooler and pulling out some paper plates. ~he laughed lightly~It's fine, I prefer my burgers and buns like that~he exaggerated the word buns and just shook his head as he went over to grab the buns and patty~Either have I, still a searching for that perfect person too. Seems like whenever I try to get close, they leave town or something~shrugs~ well I guess it's a good thing I told you up front i wasn't sticking around huh. She said smiling and trying to make light of there conversation, so that nether of them got depressed. Do you live around her or are you just visiting? She asked before taking a bite of her hamburger. I actually live in the city, been living here for 10 years~shrugged. As he sat Downey DN took a bite and savored the marvelous taste~Great cooking~he said with a mouthful of his burger and when he swallowed he laughed~Sorry, how bout you? wow, really. that's great I'll have to look you up when I get moved. It will be nice to have someone I know around. Holly said smiling. After finishing her food she started to clean up the camp. Looking back at Mike. He looked tired. Smiling she said. I have an extra sleeping bag you can use if you don't want to swim back to the other side of the lake, or if you prefer I can give you a ride back. ~he smiled as he finished his dinner and started to clean up. The fact that she had cooked him dinner and invited him to stay made him wonder, but he didn't mind. He really didn't want to go back and hear people fucking while he sat there, listening to them. He decided, what the hell~Sure, if that's okay with you... no problem I'll get the sleeping bag for you. She said smiling, and wondered if she were being way too forward. He didn't seem thrilled to be out here with his friends, and she hadn't been thinking about what she was doing. Putting another log on the fire she stood and walked back over to the truck. Looking for the extra sleeping bag. Finding it she carried it back over, and handing it to him. The tent has two separate rooms so your free to use the other room in the tent or if you prefer to sleep under the stars that's fine. There is extra wood in the back of the truck. Spreading a blanket on the ground near the fire she sat down and looked out over the lake. Mike seemed like a great guy, she was glad she had gotten to meet him, and she hoped she hadn't scared him off by being forward. ~he took the sleeping bag~Wow, to separate rooms? Jeez, I've never heard of that. Must be a 2005 thing~grinned and smiled. She seemed like she really wanted him here and personally, he'd rather be here and with her, a stranger he just met but in a way, she was extremely attractive and incredibly sweet. So all he could do was go for it. As long as she was open and everything it would be awesome to know her, he was grateful for this day~So, Holly, um, I know this a bit personal but do you have a boyfriend? Smiling Holly looked over at Mark. No i don't, with school i never really had the time. What about you? Do you have a girlfriend? Wife?? Kids?? ~smiled and looked at the ground~Nope, none of them, just wondering cause if you did have a boyfriend, and he found about this, he'd probably hunt me down~he grinned and smiled. He calmed him to know she was single. Perhaps tonight, they might get a chance to stay and get to know each other even better~ Holly laughed at the idea of some guy coming after Mark on her behalf, there weren't any of this that she could think of.no worries Hun no big bad boys hidden away anywhere. Even if there were I am sure you could handle it. Looking him over she smiled and blushed thinking of some of the things she would do to him if he were hers. You said you just moved into the city right? Well, where are you staying at?~he wondered, he knew there were a couple places near him, and he could only wonder. For some reason, as his eyes scanned her body. He pictures without clothing and his dark hardened underneath his pants~ Yes I have everything packed and ready to be moved when I am done with my camping trip. I believe the address is 723 maple DRV. It's just down from the collage. She said, looking up at him from where she was sitting. Smiling she asked. Do you live anywhere near there? ~he was astonished, it was the place next to him. He thought for a minute that this was all a joke, but then he thought it through and smiled. One of the most gorgeous woman he had every met was his next door neighbor. He was glad it was her for maybe, they might get closer~Well, I'm right next door if ya need anything~grinned and laughed~Well, I guess now we won't lose contact Laughing with him Holly smiled. She was glad to know that she would have someone she knew around to talk to, and maybe hang out with. Things were looking up.I think I am going to turn in. Are you going to stay up for a while? If so I'll leave the fire going. ~he thought about i and realized it was already passed midnight, he decided to turn in~New, I'll hit the hay but, why don't we leave the fire going and let it go out on its own, its controlled so it won't go anywhere. And if either of us need ta get something, it'll make it a bit brighter~he suggested as he stood up. He looked at her and then at the tent she had already set up. It was one of the biggest he had seen and found, IOT had more than one room~Damn, you weren't kidding Laughing she nodded and stood up. Bringing the blanket with her, she turn away from him and shook it out. Walking with him, she went into her side of the tent and made sure the wall between them was down. If you get thirsty or anything help yourself, and thank you for joining me. I really appreciate the company. She said after zipping up the tent. She slowly stripped out of her clothing, and climbed into her sleeping bag. Wondering what he would say if she asked him to join her. ~as she stripped out of her clothing. He couldn't help but notices she did it a bit slowly and seductively. He smiled but his engorged dick in his pants was not operating. As she turned around, he looked away. He started to undo his Sir and through it aside. Something struck his mind~Since we're both grown and responsible adults. You wouldn't mind keeping the wall down and me getting, well, um, little closer to you?~hat was awkward, he though, god, great words of choice there bub...he said to himself~ Holly smiled.no i won't mind as long as your sure you won't. It looks like it's going to get cold so the closer our sleeping bags are the better. Damn she thought that sounded so stupid, why can't I just say "no i don't mind come share my sleeping bag." No Holly don't say that you could give him the wrong idea, your not some slut to be fucked and dumped you value yourself a lot more than that. Thinking of how good his hands and mouth would feel on her skin tho made her groan. Ohhh how she would love to feel this hands. Hearing the wall slide down Holly looked up into Mikes eyes, wondering if he could read her thoughts. She smiled, and getting up moved over so that he had enough room for his sleeping bag as well, and blushed from head to toe because she had forgotten she was naked. I am so sorry i didn't mean to flash you. She said sitting down in her sleeping bag, pulling the top part up like a blanket to cover her breasts, and trying not to be embarked. ~he bent down and laid down but brought his head up and tilted to the side~No, there's nothing wrong with flashing, I mean hell. We both flashed each other earlier~he smiled, he had, but she had also. But he knew for a fact, she was the most beautiful woman, he had met to date~Though, I'd have to say, don't take it the wrong way but, your breasts are amazing. I've drawn women naked and well, you'd Bethe best yet Maybe when I get moved in you could come over and draw a picture of me. Holly said smiling. She shivered a little the air was cold, and her nipples handed from a combination of cold and Mike's presence. Smiling she decided to be a little bold. It looks like it's going to get very cold tonight. Would you like to share our sleeping bags? We can put them together and share our body heat. She said thinking to herself. oh, god I blew that one, why didn't I just ask him. Happy Valentine's Day ~he made it look like he was thinking real hard and then smiled~Sure, what the hell...~he said, the thought that crossed his mind was, was he going to join her or vice versa?~ Slowly unzipping her sleeping bag, and sitting up. Holly smiled, and turn beet red while she finished unzipping it all the way, and spread it out for them to lay on. Watching him as he unzipped his own sleeping bag for them to use as a blanket. She lay down spreading her pillows out for them both to use, and waited for him to join her. Her body shaking slightly, and her nipples were nice, and hard for two reasons, anticipation of what might happen, and the cold. ~he smiled as he attached them, making it one sleeping bag. He moved closer to her and accidentally, swung his hand across one of her hard nipple, and he pulled away but noticed a glimmer of pleasure in her eyes. He moved closer and realized they were looking each other in the eyes and then, the made the move and kissed her on the lips gently but passionately, feeling how soft she was, he couldn't help it~I'm sorry... I...um... I.... Don't be sorry... I've wanted you to do that since I first saw you earlier. She said. As he turn back words her, Holly met him half way returning his kiss's with equal passion. Her body reacting to each touch or caress of his hands as they slid over her eager body. ~his hand found her slim, soft waist as he kissed her, he scooted against her, though also feeling his dick grow under the top. He couldn't believe what was happening. He had wanted it also when she had said she wanted him, and now they were giving what they both needed. Furthermore, he rubbed her sides as his hand slid around her ass~ Slowly breaking from his kiss as his hands slid around her side. Holly smiled and lay down with him. Her hands sliding down his chest, and inside his shorts to caress his hardened cock in her hands. ~he let out a low groan from the kissing and the sudden feel from her gentle yet soft hands vigorously wrapping around his dick. His grew to its full length. Though he was very long, just about 9 inches, he made up for thickness. He smiled and kissed~Let's see what we got here...~he reached down and fell her pussy and stroked it, feeling her hand on his dick doing the same~ Moving her pleasure as his fingers found her tight wet pussy. Holly continued to play with his cock and balls. Trading kisses along his neck, and chest. Taking her time enjoying each and every touch of their bodies. ~he smiled as he stroked it a couple of times and then looked her in the eyes, breaking the kiss~Who knew we'd be here, doing this, after meeting each other about an hour before... His words almost stopped Holly cold. Most people would call her a slut for sleeping with someone they just meet, and that was something she was not. Holly tried to block out this thoughts, and gave Mike a long deep kiss trying not to think. Rolling over with him so that she was on top. Holly slowly slid off his shorts, Kissing along his stomach as she went. Once they were removed she begging licking, and sucking his cock. She would worried about everything else later, right now all she wanted to do was feel. ~he smiled as she started to head lower. He knew she was having a hard time grasping what they were doing, though they both wanted it. Slut was not a word, he would describe her. His dick hardened inside her mouth as she sucked and licked him clean. He groaned as he arched his back. It had been over 3 year since he had sex before so it was little new to him again~ Enjoying the feel of his dick in her mouth. Holly continued to lick and suck his cock for a little while longer before slowly letting him slide out of her mouth. Kissing his stomach, chest, and working her way back up, strattling him as she kissed his lips. Very slowly she started taking him inside of her, tight wet pussy. Beginning a slow them taking her time and enjoying every inch of his hard cock deep inside of her. You feel so good. She gasped, ~as she sunk onto him, he couldn't believe how wet she was. And he had barely done anything to please her. He groaned and tightened his fists, coiling them with the sleeping bag~Oh god.... ~he moaned as she slid lower onto his raging dick~ Slowly riding him she land down her breasts brushing his chest, while she kissed and nibbled his neck. ~he groaned as he started to kiss her, he started to tongue her lips and then entered her mouth. He hugged her close, feeling her breasts rubbing against chest was a lot of pleasure, for both of them. He thrust up into her screaming pussy. His dick was the key, and he wanted to bring her to the biggest orgasm ever~ Moaning her pleasure as he depend the kiss his young invading her mouth while he trusts up into her. Holly began to pick up the pace a little, building them both a little closer to climax. ~suddenly he could feel his balls start to tighten. It was only a matter of moments until he speed his life giving juices into her~Holly.... I-... I'm gonna CCMM....~he groaned as he went harder and deeper~ Hearing him say he was about to cum, along with his deeper thrusts gave Holly the last little push she needed to come to a climax herself. Ohhh yes Mike messes now ohhhhhh god NOW! Mike~he grabbed her ass tightly, he wanted to prolong both there orgasms, so as he rammed into her, he pulled her onto him as he fucked deeper until finally, he pushed deep into her and spewed his own cum into her bowls~Oh god...~he trembled, that was one of his strongest climaxes~ Breathing hard from their exertion Holly looked down at Mike and blushed. It had been awhile since she had been with anyone and he had felt so good. Slowly climbing off of him she looked for something to clean them both up with. Searching through her backpack she found another towel she had brought, and helped clean him up, then herself. When she was finished she laid the towel off to the side out of the way and curled up next to him in the sleeping bag. She wanted to talk to him, but she wasn't sure what she should say. ~as she snuck back in, he wrapped his arm around her and held her gently. She had given him one of the best gifts a man could ask for, and he was in her debt.~Holly, thank you...~he gently kissed her~ Smiling she said. Your welcomes she fell asleep. Mike~when he awoke early in the morning. He could feel the cool dew against the tent. He looked over at Holly who was still cuddled up to him. Furthermore, he gently and quietly, got up and started to redress as he went outside and looked out to find everything where it was and the sky shining brightly, it was like a dream come true. Furthermore, he decided to make them both breakfast. Though he'd be using her food, they'd both benefit. He found some eggs and bacon. He started to cook them on the fire that he made beforehand. The smell of bacon, filled the area~ Smelling the wonderful aroma of taken, and coffee Holly woke, and stretched Amazed, and glad that what had happened last night hadn't been a dream. Smiling she got dressed in her swimsuit, and a pair of Jeans. Throwing on a light green V cut t-shirt over top because it was still a little chilly out, but decided to go bare foot. Brushing out her hair she left it down and stepped outside to join him. Mike~he smiled at Holly and went over and kissed her and wrapped his arms around her~Hey good looking, sleep well? Blushing Holly smiled kissed him lightly on the lips, and said. Yes I did thank you. Mmm smells good. Is it ready yet? As she walked with him over to the picknick table. Mike~smiled as her soft hand touched his side~Almost, here...~he went over and got a plate and put the scrambled eggs onto a paper plate and got some silverware. He went back over to her with the eggs and bacon. He placed it in front of her and smiled. Furthermore, he rarely cooked, but he found he was pretty good at it. Furthermore, he went over and got the remaining. There were extra pieces of bacon he put on another plate and put it between them. He sat down in front of her and smiled~So, how'd I do? Mmm taste's wonderful, thank you. It's been a while since anyone has made me breakfast. I appreciate it a lot. She said after eating a few bites. Looking around Holly Wonder if after they were done eating he would like to go for a walk. Only one way to find out ask. Holly smiled and looking back at Mike asked. After were done eating would you like to go for a walk, We can go let your friends know your ok, and such. ~he nodded~A walk would be nice. I doubt they realized I was gone, I don't even think they remember I came with`he grinned and smiled, not bringing up last night though it was amazing~ I don't see how anyone could forget you but since they were drinking they might have. Which means we'll need to go get your stuff. She said smiling. Then catching what she said, and remembering last night blushed. Looking down at her plate she finished off the last of her food, and took a sip of her coffee. Do you plan on staying her longer or are you leaving tonight or today?~he asked, he hoped he could get her number at least. She was someone that he definitely, never wanted to forget~ Smiling Holly said. I plan'd on leaving tonight, and well I figured if you didn't have other plans since you said your house was next door to mine.......... Well if you want you can ride back with me. The movers have already taken my stuff to the house all I have to do is unpack and such after I get there. Holly was embarrassed she could have asked him a little better than that. What was done. Biting her lower lip she waited for his cancer. God, your sexy, your sweet, you're everything a guy could want.~he smiled and nodded~I think I'll take you up on your offer and for your hospitality, I'll offer my assistance (SP) in helping unpack~he was talking fancy, he liked sounding like other people but when he did it, it usually meant he would do what he said~How's that sound? Thank you i appreciate it a lot. She said smiling as she got up to throw her empty paper plate in the trash, and help clean the dishes making sure things were put away and locked up. So nothing was taken while they went for their walk, and to get his things. Laughing and joking with him as they worked.It's nice to have help. Thank you. Ready for that walk when you are. She said. I am, let's go~he stuck out his arm and felt her gentle arm wrap around his and felt her almost cling to him, he enjoyed the feel of her next to him, and they started to walk through the woods, he knew there was a bridge about half a mile ahead~ Holly was enjoying her time with Mike evenly. He had a wonderful since of humor and a great personality. Looking out over the bridge at the sentry around them Holly smiled. Relaxed and having fun for the first time in a long while. How far is it to your friends camp? She asked looking back at Mike. Only to see him watching her. ~all he could do seemingly was to just look at her, she seemed like an angel, and he was the last person, he would've ever thought to be with her~Oh, umm~he realized she had asked him a question, he felt suddenly so stupid~Oh, about 15 minutes, shouldn't take long~he creased her arm gently but when there gaze didn't break, he leaned and kissed her gently and smiled afterward~ Smiling as she return his kiss taking his arm, they continued words his friends camp. She was enjoying the day, and being with him. She couldn't wait to get to know more about him, and was happy that they would be neighbors once she got settled in. ~when they got to his camp, he found it quite empty. He went over to the tent beside his and noticed it moving around, he really didn't want to know what was going on in there so he went into his tent and started to collect his things. Finally, after a couple of minutes he got his stuff inside his backpack and heaved it over his shoulder. He went back over to her and smiled~I really don't want to know what was going on back there...~he laughed as they started to make there way back to her camp~Well, so Holly, what do you like to do? You mean other than teaching? She said laughing. Well I like camping, and spending time with friends when I get the chance. I collect dragon's, unicorns and fairies....and I love to read. With school there real isn't much else. She said smiling... Would you like some help?? That looks really heavy. Actually it's not but thank you very much~he leaned over and kissed on her lips gently and slowly and then started to walk next to her like it never happened, but he licked his lips~ Blushing Holly smiled she loved the feel of his lips against hers, but didn't wish to make too much of it as they walked back to her camp. Holly enjoyed the fresh air and Mikes company. ~when they got back to her camp, he sat down on one of the unfordable chairs they AHD left there. He set the bag down and sighed~So, what might our plans be now? It's not quite noon yet we could go swimming if you want... What would you like to do? She asked looking around. They had packed most everything earlier in the morning so there wasn't much to do this evening when they headed to the city. Smiling she gave a wicked grin. Kicking off her shoe's pants and tossing her shirt. She stood there in her bathing sure, and ran for the water. Catch me if you can! She yelled over hers holder. ~he grinned as he stripped off his shirt. There was nothing, neither of them have not seen in the last 24 hours. He gunned as he kicked his shoes off, standing in his shorts. He had planned on not wearing boxers, so this was perfect. Furthermore, he ran after her, but she had already been in the water by the time he was finished. Furthermore, he dove in, lucky right into the deep area~ Laughing as Mike dove into the water Holly watched wondering where he would surface. Swimming lazy around in the water relaxing she waited for him to show up. ~he basically sank under the water and waited for her to just lazily swim around, he smiled as she laid on her back almost right under him. He slowly swam up, his hair tickling her arm. His arms floating till they reach her back. His head popping out of the water with a slight splash. As the water passed down his face he smiled~Gotcha sexy~he winked~ AHHH! She shouted in surprise. Holly laughed as he came up from under her and caught her around the waist as he came out of the water. She quickly turn in his arms and splashed him. Laughing at the look on his face she land forward and gave him a long slow kiss. ~he smiled for he was forced to close his eyes~Hey-~he was cut off when she kissed him, only, he didn't break the wonderful kiss. Her lips spoke everything without even saying a word. He took a chance and placed his tongue and the entrance to her mouth and felt her let it in and there tongues danced to the beat of there love (aka, heart)~ Holly took her time enjoying their kiss evenly, before breaking it and stepping back a little. Smiling she quickly turn, and dove into the water swimming as fast as she could. Wondering if he would come after her or not. ~he slowly dove underwater, savoring her taste and then starting to swim after h, his arms pedaling him to her quickly. He wanted her, his dick being pushed down hurt, but he knew it was worth it~ Feeling his arms around her as he caught up to her near the shore, Holly laughed in delight. Her enjoyment quickly turn to passion, as she felt his erection against her. Turning she reached up, and slowly untied the string around her neck holding her bikini top in place. Slowly letting it slide down. Covering her breasts with one arm. She turn and asked a little breathlessly for she had never done anything like this before. Would you untie the back for me? It's in a knot and I cant get it on my own. Sure~he said as he paddled some to get over to her. He never caught that she could easily do this herself. He had never experienced it but he did it. Furthermore, he easily undid the knot, and it fell onto the water that was beginning to wave from their movements. Furthermore, he didn't realize that his face was starting to get read either~ Holly blushed herself when she saw him turn beet red and thought she had made a mistake. Looking down feeling ashamed of her self. She quickly caught up her floating swimsuit top and made her way to shore. Doing her best to hide her mortification as she wrapped a towel around herself. " I can't believe I was such an idiot. What was I thinking?" she thought. Truning as she heard him come out of the water she tried to smile while she handed him a towel. What do you mean?~he asked as he got out of the water and followed her. He took the towel she handed to him but when she tried to turn around, he got hold of her shoulder and kept her from turning~Was it something I did or said?~he had to know. If it was about the strap, it was because he had never done that but also, because last night. He hadn't seen her breasts with his own eyes but now, he had gotten the chance~ Holly blushed. Its alright, don't worried about it, I was being foolish. She said. Doing her best to make light of the situation. Sitting down at the picknick table she looked up at him. You can sit by me, i won't bite I promise. ~he went over and sat down, he wrapped the towel around his waist as it hung down his thighs~I know ya won't bite~smiled into her beautiful eyes. He just wanted to sit there staying at her eyes. He felt his stomach lurch for a moment, getting used to the air and then he was fine. Furthermore, he looked at the ground, a bit nervous since it had suddenly gotten quiet~ Are you feeling alright? Holly asked seeing him look at the ground. Placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. Can I get you a drink or something? She asked hoping to help him feel better. I- I'm okay...~he seemed to calm when he touched her but when she took it away. He felt empty~c-could you...um, keep doing that~he said smiling and blushing. He had never been this close to a girl in years, and he felt really embarrassed~ Holly smiled and took his hand. I think maybe you need to lay down out of the sun for a while. She said leading him over to the tent. I'll sit with you for a while if you want. She said smiling at him. ~he smiled as he found that she didn't let go even when he tried, and he smiled, but he kept holding her hand, when he got in the tent, he smelled a familiar fragrance and smiled. It was her own, and he loved it, he sat down and sighed, it was indeed cooler in here, and he looked up at her and patted the spot next to him~Now, I don't bite.....much Smiling Holly sat down next to him in the tent. Stretching out next to him, she closed her eyes and tried to relax. They would be packing things up soon to head into the city, and she had so much to unpack it wasn't funny, but for now she could just breathe. ~he couldn't hold it in anymore, he had to talk to her about last night. Plus, the smell of there sex from the previous night still lingered inside the tent~Alright, um, Holly, we need to talk about last night...~he paused, his heart beating like crazy~Last night....had to be the best night of my life. I have no regrets but now, I just want to be with you, and I'm just really nervous all of a sudden. Your beautiful, gorgeous, everything a guy could ask for. What's just crossing my mind is why, why me? Holly listed to what Mike had to say at first when he said they had to talk she thought ohhh no here it comes he doesn't want me. Then he continued and she found that he was as nervous as she was. I want to be with you too. I like you a lot, and why not you? Furthermore, I don't see anything wrong with you whatsoever...You're the first guy I've met that's treated me like a version and not just some piece of meat. I was just afraid of scoring you off. She said her voice just early above a whisper. Rolling over on her side to face him she land up on her elbow. Taking her free hand she reached out and touched his face. Leaning in to kiss him. ~he kissed her back and as the kiss deepened, he wrapped his arms around her and swung her onto him and smiled as they looked each other in the eyes~I'm not scared anymore~kissed her~ Holly smiled down at him. She had lost the towel from around her when he moved her onto of him and so was naked from the waist up. Leaning down her soft breasts brushing his chest. She gave him a long slow kiss. Her mouth open so that their tongs could dance. Pulling back only long enough to say. I am glad your not scared anymore. I am not ether.... I want to be with you. As do I~he said and as she sat up a bit, he moved lower and enclosed his lips around her right nipple. He flicked his tongue over and over again, just kicking it occasionally, while his other hand massaged her other breast~ Feeling her nipples harden with pleasure. Holly moan'd enjoy the feel of Mike's mouth and hands upon her breast's. Giving him the lead she waited to see what he would do next. ~he tugged on each of them with his teeth and smiled as he wiggled up back to her~Yum~grinned and laughed as he kissed her and looked into her gorgeous eyes~ Moaning Holly slid her hands in Mikes hair as he gently tugged her nipples with his teeth arousing her even more. Hearing him say Yum.... in handed her extent all the more as he started to wiggle back up Holly wiggled down. Taking her hands out of his hair. She smiled down at him when he looked her in the eyes, and she began to remove his towel and shorts. Kissing and licking along his body as she did so. ~he moaned as her soft and wet tongue traveled down his hot body. Every nerve in his body felt like it was on fire and that was not helping his dick at all, all of his 9 inches were sticking up against the towel~ Holly smiled when she noticed the bulge in the towel and slowly began to remove it. Once that was done she began licking and sucking his cock. Sterling her young over the tip. She could feel him shutter in delight, witch only further her own excitement while she continued to suckle his cock. ~he moved her over a bit, but he noticed her whimper. She really wanted his dick, well, he wasn't going to deny her that. So as he removed whatever she had on still on, he switched her so that he was looking into her magnificent pussy AQS she lapped at his dick~ Holly moan'd her delight as he began licking and sucking her clit. Shivers running through her body making her hard nipples even harder. While she continued to suck his cock. ~he groaned into her clit as he sucked it and buried his nose into her cunt but maneuvered so that he could stick his tongue inside her and wiggle it around as he sucked it. He licked the lips and blew air inside as he kissed and sucked her clit. His balls were almost about to burst, for a moment he thought he would when she kept passing over his sensitive area~ Feeling his cock thicken as he continued to eat her pussy. Holly new he was close to coming. Slowly she let him slide out of her mouth continuing by hand as she urged him on. Cum for me baby cum for me..... ~he buried his head into her cunt as he licked and bit her clit softly, hoping to make her cum as suddenly, he felt himself cumming. His first shot surprised her and landed on her face but the rest she started to gobble up, and it seemed like it would never end, he groaned as it seemed to fade, and he licked harder, moaning into her pussy~ As he came Holly began to lick him clean, cumming herself as he increased his efforts by nibbling and sucking her pussy. Holly had enjoyed the feel of his mouth and hands on her body, but she really wanted to feel his hard cock deep in her tight wet pussy. After giving him a few moments to breath. Holly began to stroke and suck his cock again getting him ready for her. ~his cock stayed hard in her mouth, and he moved her off him~I think you deserve the real thing now~he grinned and went over to her, he grabbed his own cock, aimed it at her pussy and slowly, it started to slide into her tight wet pussy~ Ohhhhh yes Mike please.... Holly said as he slowly entered. Wrapping her legs around him to hold him even closer as he slid in and out teasing her with his cock making her want it all the more. ~he quickly married his cock into her warm snatch and felt it tighten at his presence, he stopped, he could tell she hadn't had any for a while and neither had he. He slowly pulled out and pushed back in, tantalizing her~ ohhhh please ... Holly mound while he teased her. Arching her hips up to meet his. She slid her hands around his neck and holders her nails slightly scratching while she begged for his hard cock. ~He groaned, she was getting wetter by the second, and it wasn't helping his cock one bit. He grabbed onto her hips and shoved himself as deep as possible and started to push in and pull out faster, feeling her wet walls slide along his rock hard dick kept pushing him closer to his climax~ Even tho they had had sex last night it still had been awhile for her. As soon as he quicken his pace and depend his strokes, It brought Holly extremely close to climax. She brought her hips up to meet his enjoying every inch of his hard cock. ~he groaned as she tightened around his steal like cock and that didn't help his approaching climax. With just a few more hard thrust, his cock grew even more and then seemed to burst inside of her, spewing his life giving seed into her, and it almost felt like it would never end but after about 6 shots, it was slowly stopping, but he wasn't until finally, hos cock became flaccid, but he knew it would come back~Fuck...good god....that was amazing...~he groaned, sweat all over his body, the tent had gotten hotter from there lovemaking~ Feeling Mike start to cum brought Holly to her own climax. Stars seemed to be exploding in her mind as they came together. Hollys body was completely relaxed and she didn't think she could move. Looking up she smiled at Mike. I agree that was amazing and i don't think I am going to be walking for a few. ~he smiled and rubbed her thigh~thank god we live close~he grinned as he started to rub her thigh gentle, feeling her soft skin tingle from the pleasure. He could feel her muscles still spasming inside her leg~ Holly smiled enjoying the feel of his hands on her leg. Yes it is a good thing we live close. Giving a soft sigh she said. As soon as I am MMM able to move tho I think were going to have to get on the road......do you know what the time is by chance??she asked with a grin. ~he smiled and rolled onto of her, his dick rubbing her leg~hmm, let me check~he grabbed his watch from his trousers, and it read 2 o'clock~Hamm, what, it takes about an hour to get back home, hour and a half? Holly Grind up at Mike.Don't know haven't been there yet... you tell me. Is it an hour??? Hour and a half???? If so then I am sure we have time for something to eat...or if you'd rather skip lunch we could think of something else to do....... She said sliding her hand's up his chest and over his shoulder's to play with his hair. Whatever you wish my sexy lady~grinned and kissed her, running is hands down her gentle skin thighs. He squeezed them and moved them to her pussy where he started to rub~You tell me....seems like the cat is out of the bag now~winked and kissed down her breasts and to her stomach~ ohhhhhhhhh I think ...... we can ... eat ... later. Holly mound as his fingers found her clit and began there dance. Arching into him. When he started kissing her breasts and stomach. Sqirming a little as his hands skim'd her thigh's tickling her sensitive skin. ~though he had just unloaded what seemed like a bucket of cum into her sopping pussy, he was still feeling 100%. He kissed her pussy and licked the outsides once h got downwards. He wrapped his arms around each thigh and started to pull her close as he sucked and licked at her sensitive cunt~ Holly writhed under him enjoying the feel of his hands on her thigh's and his mouth on her pussy. She moans'd her pleasure sliding her fingers in his hair. ~he dug his tongue into her pussy, tasting her juices and everything, feeling her own cum running down his checks as he liked up her honey~mammal~he mumbled underneath her, sending vibrations deep into her womb~ Ohhhh Mike yes baby don't stop... Holly mound as Mike ate her pussy. One hand tangling in his hair, and the other gripping the sleeping bag above her head as she writhed under him. ~he groaned into her cunt for when she was pulling at his hair it felt like she was ripping it out, but he licked harder to please here. His upper lip continued rubbing up against her clit. He decided to add a finger in, and he plunged his middle finger into her pussy, he felt around and then thrust in and out, doing it multiple times~ Her body wound tighter and tighter until she couldn't stand it anymore, and her body felt as tho it were exploding when she came. ~he felt her tighten around his finger as she came and he kicker cunt, licking up her juices. When it was over and her legs were still shaking, he moved up and kissed her~That must've been intense Laughing slightly Holly smiled after he kissed her she said. Yes it was .... Her body still shaking she said. We should probably be getting ready to leave here soon, but i really don't think I can walk right now. Would you mind saying another night, and we leave in the morning or do you have to work?? She asked curling up in his arms to rest while she regained her strength. When my body tells me I can move again I'll fix us something to eat if you like. She said kissing his chest and smiling up at him. Well, let's see, its Tuesday right?~he asked looked down at her, feeling her body move onto his and fell her gentle lips on his stomach. He kneaded her cheek gently and smiled~I don't have to work till Monday~he said with a smile, he was glad they didn't have to leave yet. There was more fun in store yet~ Holly smiled up at him and gently kissed the hand he was caressing her face with and slid her arms up over his chest, and holders before kissing his lips. Guess I'll have to unpack the tuck then so we can get something to eat soon... What would you like??

Camping trip (closed)|rating:3.0

Advanture of his life (closed for Zak1000)

Adventure of his life (closed for Zak1000)She ran, faster and faster, even though her entire body was hurting at this point. Still, she knew that if she stopped they would get her, and it would be the end of everything. The cloak was wrapped tightly around her slender form and the hood she was holding in place with one hand was protecting her dark shining hair and emerald green eyes. From time to time she glanced around, seeing the small group of men still after her, swords ready in hands. This only caused Elena to run faster. A priestess at some small temple, she was the only survivor of a massacre that had happened there. The men had burst in without a warning, cutting everyone down. Just in time the high priestess had placed a necklace around Elena's neck and had sent her out through a secret passage. The young twenty-year-old woman was not safe however as the soldiers had still seen her. But who would help her in such a desolate place? She had not run towards the village in her panic but onto the wild fields instead. Suddenly she tripped over something and her body hit the ground hard. Instantly she cowered, waiting for the foreign soldiers and her death to arrive. The tall blond, with his deep blue eyes and excellent smile didn't need to leave his cozy village-he could have found a beautiful wife, could have maybe started an inn, lived a generally happy life.... But that would be so dull! He'd read so many books about young men going to find some grand quest to prove themselves, and he though "Why not?". He was quick, strong, and well practiced with a sword- if anyone could survive a dangerous mysterious journey it'd be him! He imagined that it would take a long time for his adventure to start’m, but it was only his second day of traveling over the plains when he found her. When he saw a group of men chasing a young lady in the distance his imagination took over, and he had a very different idea of what those men wanted then what they were really after, either way though, he knew now that he was going to be a hero he had to do something. He drew his blade "Hey! Over here! Pick on somebody...your...own..." He noticed there was at least ten of them. And one of him. He hated being a coward, he was completely disappointed in himself, but at the very least he'd saved the girl. When the men all came at him at once... he ran. Grabbing the damsel in distress and tossing her over his shoulder in a way he somehow doubted she enjoyed, but he knew the land, and even when carrying a woman he was able to lose the solders. Elena heard shouts and opened her eyes. A stranger had come to save her! It was the last thing she had expected to happen. Just as she was about to get up, the blond man grabbed her and tossed her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. Naturally she wanted to complain as it was more than uncomfortable, but as she looked up and saw the soldiers slowly falling back, she bit her lip and held her mouth. That man had saved her and shouting at him for mistreating her would do no good. The man seemed to know where he was going, taking her further away from the temple than she had even been. She even stopped recognizing the area altogether. In the end they stopped at a cave, just at the border to a forest and finally Elena was allowed to feel the ground under her feet again." Thank you, stranger. You saved my life.", the young priestess said and bowed in gratitude." I wish I could pay you for your kindness, but alas, I have no gold on me." During the chase her cape had moved, allowing a full view of her body. Her hair was long and wavy and her skin sun kissed and had a strange tribal tattoo around her belly button. She wore the typical clothes of the temple: A long white flowing skirt and a wrap around her breasts. The golden amulet was gleaming, hanging on a golden chain around her slender neck. She smiled kindly at the stranger, hoping that he had helped her out of the goodness of his heart and not for profit. Once again he found himself disappointing as a hero, since it took him several long seconds to answer her. He was too busy staring at her. He knew it wasn't a heroic thing to do, but she was so... exotic, with that skin, those eyes, even her hair... His eyes were drawn to her strange tattoo, her strange amulet, and her very nice chest... He actually blushed when he got the feeling that she'd caught him, smiling a little." Oh, no, it's no trouble ma'am. I couldn't let any harm befall a beautiful young woman." he says, trying to regain his confidence. He bowed and took her hand gently to kiss her wrist. "A am Zachary Vo inn. Adventurer, pleasure to meet you Miss.... I'm sorry, I never asked your name. So- what does this requisite lady call herself?"he let himself flirt a bit, feeling that he deserved it after his first rescue. They had to run far to get away from those men, and it had taken him to the edge of the Forrest, an area he did not know very well, but he decided to dismiss this problem until later. He had an extremely attractive female on his mind taking first priority. "May the Gods protect and honor you for what you have done, Zachary.," Elena said, drawing a sign in midair with her finger. It was a short ritual to give someone the Gods' blessing, which she had learned in the temple. As she was asked for her name, she bowed politely and answered: "I am Elena, seventh priestess to the Great Goddess Athena... Although I doubt that there is much left of her grand temple." She looked down, for a moment thinking of her fellow priestesses who had all died...died to allow her to escape. She took the amulet and looked at it. What had the high priestess said again before she had forced Elena to run?" Get this to the hidden temple of Leon. It shall be safe there. It's the treasure of our beloved Goddess. Don't allow it to fall into impure hands." Eleia's eyes showed a new determination as she remembered those words." The hidden temple of Leon...," she whispered, not caring whether Zachary heard or not. She was too lost in her own thoughts. Although the temple was hidden, she knew where it was. Every priestess learned the location upon her initiation. But it was very far away and the young woman didn't know if she could make it on her own. Suddenly she looked up, studying the man before her in a new light"." May I propose you a deal?", she asked outright. "You said you are an adventurer.... I can provide you with an adventure and a substantial amount of gold by the end of it. All you have to do in return is get me to a specific location safely." She had noticed his look upon her and to make her offer a bit more irresistible she placed her hands on her well-rounded hips and stuck her chest out a bit more. She might have been a chase priestess, but she knew how to play with her assets well. Oak worried he'd start drooling when she presented her body in such a way, he barely even listened to the bit about the gold... He left home with enough money to last him a bit, and sought action and stories to tell more than riches... but of course extra gold couldn't hurt... It'd help him save up for when he'd eventually finish adventuring and want to settle down in the distant future... Besides... That body!" I couldn't allow any harm to befall you on your way, so yes, I'll gladly accept your offer, Priestess." he said, himself also sounding a bit charming, and giving her a smile. He'd considered adding a wink, but decided that'd be over doing it. "Tell me then, where are we heading? And for that matter why are we heading there? If I may ask." He wanted to know what they were up against if she wanted to have a bodyguard to get there it couldn't exactly be safe. He wasn't afraid of danger though-it was practically the point of adventuring! Elena smiled back, quite pleased with herself for having won him over so quickly. Once he had given his word to help her, she allowed to cloak to fall over her figure again, sheltering it from any prying eyes." I need to go to another temple. I will be safe there from those soldiers.," she explained, not mentioning anything about the are fact around her neck. It was more than just a precious amulet. It was a piece given to the humans by the great goddess Athena herself. Or at least so legend spoke. Whatever it was, it was a secret of the temple that could not just be told to strangers. For now, she would let Zachary think that she was heading to the hidden temple for her own safety." It is very far away though. Behind the great mountain line and down the Rates river. You could say that it lies in a completely different kingdom.," she explained as she untied a chain from her wrist, which turned out to be a small pendulum. She swung it one and then watched it intently. At first, it was just circling, but suddenly it jolted into one specific direction. Casually Elena tied it back around her wrist and started walking in the direction the little pendulum had directed her towards."It's a sacred spot we are going to a not many people have ever seen it. The journey will be long however, and those men are still after me. I will understand if you ever want to drop out at some point.", she spoke in all seriousness. She had charmed him into this, yes, but she didn't want to force him to stay by her side. They walked for a little while longer, marching around the woods, rather than through them. "It will get dark soon. We better find a safe cave or something." For a fragile looking woman she showed good stamina as she hadn't complained once about being tired or thirsty. Still, the fatigue started showing eventually. That neat little thingy that pointed there way was very odd, and Oak thought about this. It was the first clue that there was more to this mission than seeking a safe haven. He didn't think much about that though, as they began there trek he was mainly focusing on what they were doing, and not allowing himself to think too much about his new crush-there'd be time for trying romance once they were further away from those men, and it was a long journey... They'd have plenty of time for that sort of thing later, he thought, hopefully. He was impressed at how she was keeping up with him well without a single word of complaint. He did notice though when she started to tire. "Yeah, we should start looking for a cave now, if I'm correct there should be plenty of caves in this part of the woods." and it wasn't long after he said it that they did find a small cave "Rest your legs m'lady. I'll go and find some firewood." and so he did. When he returned and tried starting the fire he decided it was time for more words to be shared, she'd been awful quiet as they walked. "Tell me some more about yourself, Priestess." he says as a spark finally ignites the pile of sticks. While Zachary went to get some firewood, Elena took off her cloak and spread it on the ground to sit on it. When he came back, she watched in fascination as he got a nice fire going and then scooted closer to its warmth." What's there to tell?", she asked with a smile. "I've lived most of my life in the temple, learning the secret arts of the goddess and worshiping her in humanity's name. I'm afraid the story of a priestess is rarely as exciting as that of a traveler.," she answered his question, keeping her eyes on him." Come and sit on my cloak. The ground seems to be rather filthy." She was mainly sitting on it to protect the whiteness of her clothes, even though the bottom of her skirt was stained already by mud and earth. A skirt and a simple wrap probably weren't the best traveling clothes, but Elena liked them. It were the kind of clothes she had been wearing since she had been a little girl and a Chang would be odd." Now you tell me why a man like you felt the urge to travel the world instead of settling down with a wife and a nice house." The fire turned out better than he had expected, and it was growing fairly high for the amount of good wood he could find. He listened to her tell her story, thinking that it sounded more exciting than his dispute how humble she seemed about it. He was sitting across from her until she offered to let him join her on her cloak, he gave her a quick "are you sure?" look before sitting next to her. "Thanks." he says with his flirty smile, since they were rather close now, and once again she was out of her cloak, so he could see her form, although he tried not to look still." I know I could have had those things, but I thought... not to sound cocky... but... I thought I was meant to do something more, like in the stories, to do some things that would make a real change, or just make sure people remember me. You live as long as people remember you they say...." he realized he was going off on a tangent and got back to the question "But there's a more direct answer. My parents are fairly successful farmers, and there's this other family of fairly successful farmers that neighbor us... and... they have a daughter my age... I think you know the rest. I was supposed to get married next month. She's a nice girl, pretty and kindhearted, she'd make a good wife, and I think eventually we'd grow to love each other, but... well, there was no real... passion, no feeling that she was the person I was meant for. You know I'm an it... flirtatious but I want to be sure that the person I spend the rest of my life with is right for me, you know? So I guess you could say I'm running away, although at my age there must be a different word for it." he took a deep breathe after the long answer. Elena could not help but giggle at his story, shaking her head." It's funny how men always get scared right before marriage. They are all up for fun and fooling around, but when it comes to commitment they get more cautious.," she said and laughed again. To show that she was joking however she elbowed him in a gentle and friendly way. Quite obviously she didn't mind him being so close. Although a virgin, she was not shy and skirmish around men. There had been more than enough visiting the temple every day and the other priestesses, those who had left their marriages to serve the goddess instead, had told her more than many other pure ladies would ever know." Perhaps your dream may come true though. If you manage to bring me to my destination I will make sure your name shall be written down in our scriptures and stored with all the others to survive many millennia." He smiled "My story in scriptures? Sounds like just what I'm looking for." he said, using a stick to move around bits of the wood in the fire carefully, than her earlier comment sort of got the boy. Zak laughed and elbowed her back "Hey! Go back a bit! You don't think I... I'm not that kind of guy, Miss. Priestess thankyouverymuch! I don't go fooling around with ladies if I plan on disappearing like I did. I was brought up better than that I'll have you know! Furthermore, I'm a gentleman and a chivalrous one at that!" It was quiet for a few seconds, and he knew sleep wasn't going to come to them any time too soon." Besides, the story is more complicated than that. See.... That girl was already interested in someone else.... my...sibling. See This girls supposed to marry already had this secret affair with my older... sibling. This sibling heard my parents talking about me marryin' her and thought it was my idea and got mad, since they'd told me about it in confidence and... You know sh-the sibling thought I betray.em' and ran away." he wondered if she'd fill in the blanks, he didn't want a priestess to fight him, he didn't know whether her God looked down on certain types of relationships." What I'm trying to say is the second reason I'm out here is looking for....my big s- sibling" Elena listened calmly, staring into the fire. Apparently both of them had been hiding something big, just that she wasn't about to reveal her secret to him. Zachary didn't have to worry about her judging him, however. Although a priestess to the goddess, she had her own beliefs about love and morality and in his story, she didn't see anyone as a victim or as a culprit." Feelings make everything so very complicated, don't they?", she just asked as she turned to look at him again. "I hope you will find your older brother. And if it's within my power I shall help you with your quest as you are helping me with mine. I guess we are in a mutual contract now." She really hoped that she could help him and thus repay him in a way other than riches and gold. He smiled a very kind smile at her, happy to have gotten that story off his chest. She answered in a friendly way, and he knew then that they'd get along really well. As she went on though he was pretty surprised that she hadn't caught him on the fact that he never once actually used the word brother. Either she was rather naive or she was messing with him. Shedidlive in a temple with bunch of other women, didn't she? He'd think she'd know about..." Feelings, Yeah. You're sure right there. " He said, this part of what she'd said was certainly true enough. "But yeah... Hopefully we can find my... brother on our way. I sort of got a feeling that he headed this way when he ran off." He hoped things wouldn't be too awkward when he and the priestess tracked "him" down. That'd be something to worry about another time." But let's leave it at that for now. It's getting late I think and I what us up before sun up in case those same solders are trying to track us down. If we keep heading this way then by late afternoon, if we make good time that is, we'll come across one of the Forrest villages. I'd love to actually stay in a real inn. Maybe buy us a map while we're at it." He laid down on the cloak, rather near to her, without even thinking about it, but all the running he'd done was getting to him now, and he was asleep within the very minute. Elena just nodded. "The pendulum was swinging in this direction. So as long as we stay on this path we can stop at some villages on the way." Also, she herself wouldn't mind a night in a proper bed either. Following Zachary's example she laid down on her cloak and closed her eyes, falling asleep almost immediately. During the night, once the fire had started to die out, she moved closer to the man next to her, seeking his body heat. When she woke up however and found herself pressed right against him, she almost jumped back, creating some distance between them." I am so sorry. I didn't do it on purpose! Please, I didn't meant to seem indecent!", she apologized quickly. During the night he'd also moved closer to her, and by morning their bodies were tightly pushed together, and he didn't realize that this is what happened until he heard her, and figured it out. He blushed and looked down, knowing the Priestess must feel very odd about waking up so close to a man. He sat up in a very particular way, since their predicament had worsened the regular male problem of waking up... overexcited, and he didn't wish for her to see that. In fact, he was already worried she felt it." Oh... I... No, it's... nothing. It's only natural on a cold night, miss. There's nothing indecent about huddling together for warmth. Normal survival technique, right?" he asked, trying to smile despite his shyness. "Well...er... we're up early at least. We'll look for some breakfast while we start walking." Luckily for him, Elena really hadn't noticed his pardon. She had been too shocked for having found herself so close to him to notice much else." Yes, you're right. It was just to keep warm.," she agreed, smiling back nervously. They packed their things and soon were on the road again, picking up some berries in the forest while walking. At first the atmosphere was still a bit odd from the morning incident, but eventually they started to talk normally again and soon the event was almost forgotten. They marched all day, only stopping occasionally by a river or small pond for refreshments. By nightfall, they had reached the outskirts of a village as Zachary had predicted." You think they have a free space at the inn? I could do with a warm meal and a comfortable bed for the night?", Elena asked as they walked the street together, her cloak wrapped tightly around her body once more. Despite the awkward morning for having to very quickly get rid of an erection around a holy woman, it was a pretty uneventful day, they didn't get much to eat, and it was equally exhausting as the day before, but at least for the time being things seemed safe, Things only got better too when they saw the small village in the distance, and they quickened their pace a little." Ah, I'm sure they'll have rooms for us! And meals too!" he said excitedly "I've got enough money for a while, Elena, so it's on me.... I'll add it to your tab when we get to this temple full treasure you've mentioned." he teased......of course. When they entered the inn they leaned there was only one room left... It was if they were being driven together! "I promise to repay you for everything you do for me.," Elena promised. He would not simply get the gold returned he had to spend, but much more than that. The young priestess knew that the priests of the Hidden Temple would reward the man who brought her and the pendant back safely well. When the innkeeper mentioned that there was only one room left, Elena agreed that it was ok to share. They had already slept close together one night and he hadn't attempted anything indecent, so she trusted him enough to share a room and a bed with him. They were companions and would be for a while, so some closeness didn't matter to her. The poor girl had no idea what she was doing to her adventurer friend. They ate together at the inn before retiring to their small room for the night. It was indeed tiny, but comfortable, with a basin of water and a cloth to wash and a small bed by the window." Would you mind turning around while I freshen up?", Elena asked. She was used to cleaning herself every day and by then she was desperate to wash away the sweat and the dirt on her skin. She stripped of her clothes and then proceeded to soak the cloth in the water and to wash herself. Although used to long scented baths, Elena hurried up so she wouldn't make Zachary too uncomfortable. Once she had changed into her priestess robe again she allowed him to look again as she laid down in bed." I am exhausted.," she admitted, resting her head on the pillow. Oak didn't have any time to protest until she had already said it'd be fine for them to share a bed. He desperately told her he'd be perfectly happy getting some extra blankets from the innkeeper and sleeping on the floor, but she didn't sound like she was listening to any of it. She'd made up her mind, but he doubted she really understood the position she was putting him in. She obviously did not come close to understanding what she was putting him through, as demonstrated by her willingness to bathe with him just feet away. He faced away and closed his eyes and tried to be a gentleman... He knew he was a god guy... so why was he so tempted? So very very very tempted. He peaked. Only for a split second, and she was facing the opposite direction, but still he got a good view of Elia's cute naked butt, and her perfectly shaped form. He felt really guilty about it afterward though. He tried to pretend nothing happened as his stress filled voice told her that he was going to wash to- he was dirtier then she was, and despite that he wasn't as focused on clean slyness as she was, but he hoped it would get his mind off of her. Furthermore, he was wrong. As he washed he was curious if maybe, just maybe she had these strange feelings for him too. He wondered if she'd figured out she wasn't the only virgin among them... he wondered if this adventure might lead to more, all this while scrubbing the grime off. It might have been his imagination, but he could have sworn when he finished and turned back toward the bed her eyes were on him, but he decided it was his filthy awful imagination. He went to get into bed beside her. Elena had indeed peeked for a second. Her curiosity had gotten the best of her and she simply couldn't stop herself. Just as quickly as she had looked however, she had looked away, feeling horribly guilty about having betrayed his trust like that. Especially since she still thought that he hadn't peeked at all. When he got into bed beside her, she shuffled a little so that there was a small space between them." Good night.," she said, but didn't close her eyes. Even though she was exhausted, sleep wouldn't find her, and so she kept her eyes open, just staring at the ceiling. He closed his eyes and desperately tried to fall asleep, hoping that maybe he'd simply grow accustomed to this sort of closeness with a cute young lady, but he couldn't sleep no matter how long he laid in the fairly comfortable bed with his eyes shut he just couldn't sleep. He felt like he had far too much on his mind. To his surprise after what felt like a while when he finally opened his eyes out of simple frustration with trying to sleep he saw her looking up at the ceiling. "So... you can't sleep either, huh?" he said quietly. The thought occurred to him... it might have been his guilt"Listen, Elena, if you don't want to travel with me after this I understand but... I... peeked. When you were bathing. Just for a second when you were facing away, and I didn't see.... much, but I'm so sorry. I was... curious... and... I had some feelings..." he felt humiliated, but he did always try to do the right thing, and he imagined this was the right thing. He closed his eyes, not wanting to see her reaction. Elena jumped slightly when he suddenly spoke to her. For a second she feared she might have woken him up somehow, but his question assured her that they simply both couldn't sleep. When he confessed, she didn't get mad or angry, but instead looked a little guilt." I am as much at fault as you are....for I have peeked myself. I couldn't control the curiosity within me, and I am ashamed and sorry.," she whispered, unable to meet his eyes directly. Eventually she did look up at him, however. "And what are those feelings you were talking about?", she asked, her curiosity awakened once again. "It's... it's alright." he said, putting his hand on hers in a comforting way, seeing she really was ashamed of herself. "It's...well... natural right? Two healthy young people like us to get curious..." he said softly, wanting to make her feel better when she brought up something he'd said. He was clearly embarrassed even more so when she asked that question "It's.... I don't honestly know really. We've not known each other very long at all...b-but when I look at you and...talk to you... I just feel... strange. Ever since I first saw you I've had these feelings that I can't really explain." he said, once more trying to look away. "I guess it is... Its just that all my life I have been chaste, living the life of a pure priestess. Such thoughts have never entered my mind before..." She tried to explain herself, but she really couldn't find the right words. When his hand touched hers, she instinctively locked hers with his. They really hadn't known each other for long, but Elena couldn't deny the bond that had quickly formed between them. Was this destiny, she wondered." I don't know how to act upon such feelings...but I'm sure we will manage somehow.," she said, still smiling. The situation was odd, yet also strangely pleasant as they talked so openly. Oak was so relieved at how well she was taking all of this, and how open they'd suddenly become with each other. "I... think I understand what you mean... I'm not exactly... experienced either... I've never... been with a woman before... Furthermore, I haven't really even came close. Furthermore, I've always been rather shy about it." he admitted to her, the feeling of simply holding her hand made him happy." I'm just wondering... Are you implying that... you feel the s-same about me too?" he asks, just to be sure, since her words combined with the look in her face seemed to say quite clearly that he wasn't the only one who over the past day and a half had developed emotions for the other." If your Goddess allowed... we could just try... kissing then. T-to see if... you know if it feels right." Elena just smiled at squeezed his hand a little." My goddess says nothing against romantic relationships. She is the goddess of all life and feelings. I'm sure she would embrace it.," she explained. She couldn't really say whether she returned the same feelings though. Yes, there was an attraction, but she wanted to wait to find out what it really meant. When he suggested kissing, she blushed against her will and for a moment her eyes strayed away." Uhm...yes, I guess we could.", she finally said, looking back up at him, slowly inching her face towards him. She had no idea what she was doing, but was simply allowing her body to follow its instincts. When her lips met his, she couldn't help but shiver due to the sudden emotion that ran through her. It was but a simple peck on the lips, but her first kiss nevertheless. He felt his heart leap when they shared their first kiss. He'd leaned in, and they were completely closing the small gap between them in the bed. It was only a peck, but it seemed to go on for an eternity."Oh, my..." he sighed out when the kiss was broken, looking deeply into her eyes as if he was trying to see into her, see how she was feeling. He hoped she'd felt half as good as he did about that kisses." I may not really understand these feelings I have yet... but... for all it matters... I think it sort of felt... right." "Yes, it did feel rather nice.," Elaine admitted, moving back a bit on the pillow so she could look at him again, but their hands remained locked at all times. She had never actually expected to share a kiss with anyone. All her life she had thought that she would spend all her years within the temple, but now the Goddess had obviously pushed her on another path. Once she definitely enjoyed much more." I really enjoyed that experience." The simple gazing into her soft kind eyes, the feel of the soft skin of her hand against his, it was all much more than Oak had expected when he so recently left his home to go off adventuring. His other hand slowly went up to stroke her cheek romantically." Then... maybe one more wouldn't hurt." he said with a smile a once more leaned in toward her, planted a small careful kiss on her lips. "No, one more won't hurt.," Elena agreed and pressed her lips against his. This time however they didn't separate as quickly, their lips remaining locked. Almost subconsciously the young priestess deepened the kiss, allowing her body to do whatever felt right. It was an exquisite feeling to kiss Zachary and she didn't want this sensation to stop at all. Pleasant waves were rushing through her body, making her feel strangely excited. This kiss seemed even better than the first. He, too, deepened the kiss. He still held her hand, squeezing slightly, and his other hand kept running through her soft beautiful hair. There was no longer any space between them at all as their bodies began to press together a bit. Neither of them wanted the kiss to end but after a very long time it had to stop. "That was... wow..." That kiss was truly wonderful. Much more effective and deep than the other. It was almost a shame that they had to break for air." It was indeed.," Elena agreed with a chuckle, finding her body pressed right against him like it had been during the night. Just that this time she didn't instantly jump away."this is rather comfortable.," she admitted, looking right into his eyes. Her breasts were pressed against his chest and her forehead was almost leaning against his. Oak laughed and moved to put his arms around her, holding her so close to him. He loved the feel of her. His eyes were on hers, and he couldn't stop thinking about how things might be different, what might happen between them, and he couldn't get to imagine of Elena cute naked backside out of his head." Yeah. Really comfortable." he says, playfully rubbing his nose against hers cutely. "I... I have a good feeling about us." Elena's face became a bit more serious as she looked at him." No matter how wonderful the thing between us is, it will be only for this journey. Once we reach our destination, I will stay in the temple again." Or at least that was what she thought at this point. He would be her companion on this quest, and she was ready for whatever would happen between them, but in her mind her future was still set within temple walls. Still, she snuggled against his neck, holding herself close to him, her hand traveling up and down his back. "I- I understand." he says, expression changing, not able to hide that this indeed made him sad. It was the first time her felt this way about anyone, and it'd only last for this one journey. Then what? They'd never see each other again? Is that what she meant? Is it what she wanted? He decided he was thinking too much into this and simple cuddled up to his sweet Priestess, closing his eyes. "Good night, Elena." he whispered into her ear before drifting off into the best sleep he'd had in a very long while. Elena didn't mean to make him sad, but she felt it was better to face him with the truth right from the start." Good night.," she whispered and snuggled up to him to drift off into sleep. The next morning she woke first and freed herself from his embrace without waking him. She moved to wash herself again, since she didn't know how long it would take before she'd have another chance. There was no telling whether they'd be in another inn the following night. Zachary woke up not long after the warmth of her body was away from him. And when he sat up stretched, and opened his eyes the first thing he saw a naked Elena, clearly washing herself again, not wanting to see anything that he shouldn't be he nervously covered his eyes quickly "Sorry! Sorry! So sorry!" he said very fast. Again, it felt like they were being pushed together by some kind of fate judging by all these coincidences. After the initial shock of another awkward morning the two of them had a big breakfast at the inn before heading out again bright and early. Like he’d said he bought a map, even with her pointy-thingy they needed to know where they'd be passing through exactly. He was looking over this map attentively as they left the village." It is a rather long journey isn't it. Depending on whether and the like things could take anywhere from 10 to 20 more days of travel.... In just a couple more days, starting maybe... day after tomorrow perhaps, we'll be in the mountains. That's where I think she'll" he coughs unconvincingly "He'll be. So I just wanna search a couple of the bigger towns there." As they walked he held her hand now, not sure what to think of their new relationship, except that he hoped it'd grow before they had to part ways... Elena had expected to finish before he woke up, but apparently she had miscalculated the time. Quickly she had covered her body, assuring him that he didn't need to apologize. It had been but an accident after all. In fact, the priestess didn't even dwell on the fact much as they continued their journey. When he bought the map, she once more allowed her pendulum to show them the right way, so that Zachary might read the map better." Sounds good. It would be nice to stop in some civilized places while crossing the mountains. We might have to stop and buy some decent clothes before we reach them as well, seeing as they will most likely be covered in snow." Just to make her point clear she looked down at her outfit, which was clearly made for warmer regions. As much as she loved her clothes, she'd rather exchange them for something warm than freeze. While they walked, she casually held his hand as well, not caring what other people thought. She felt safer that well and far more at ease." Will we be aiming to reach the next village tonight or shall we sleep outside?", she asked as they marched through some green fields. When she asked her question he pulled the map out again and looked it over carefully. "It'll be a close call tonight. Tiny little village, even smaller than the last one isn't...too far. I'm getting less and less familiar with the area. If we don't see it by sun set we should probably just stay there the next day. Maybe they'll have clothes and provisions we can buy for our trip through the mountains." He puts the map away and keeps going. The more they talked throughout the day the more they seemed to get along. He liked her a lot, everything about her attracted him. Another rather dull day...so far at least, it was just after noon when he spoke nervously. He was usually a polite young man, but he had to ask something. "Hey, Elena.... Aren't Priestesses supposed to be forbidden from... certain things? I mean... Just curious is all." he blushed bright red and looked away. The day passed as the previous ones with the two of them just walking and chatting to keep away the boredom. Usually it was just meaningless small talk, or they used to tell each other about their pasts, even though none of them went into great detail. Zachary's rather serious question made Elena turn to look at him and a small smile appeared on her face." You mean to ask if we priestesses have to be chaste, right?", she worded his question in her own way." The answer is no. Many of the women in the temple were wives and mothers, who decided to join the temple instead of staying at home for some reason or another. And some priestesses leave the temple to get married. Our religion is not as strict as some others...which is why we are considered heathens by so many.," she explained. "Our fate is up to us in many ways, even if the gods have their hands in there from time to time." Eleia had seen her life in the temple, but never as a complete chase maiden. She wanted to have her own little romantic adventures, but she had never really considered full commitment. Oak let her see his little smile. He wondered if she knew why he asked. She wasn't that naive, was she? He wanted to know if it'd be allowed for the two of them to finish their quest a little less, as the religious put it, "pure". But then again he felt bad for even thinking it, that sort of thing should go with commitment, shouldn't it? He was a gentleman! What if he left her at that temple impregnated or something?! It wasn't like him... But... She'd probably seen the conflict about this in his face, although at this time he was looking away slightly. Maybe a change in subject was in order." So I didn't tell you one thing about my story. I was worried you were the traditional strict type of Priestess and didn't want to upset you, but I think you'd be fine hearing it now, if you hadn't already figured it out that is... But only after you tell me what your hiding." once again he'd smirk "You say you need to get to a temple for your own safety, but, not to brag, you've been pretty safe so far already... with me around at least. So I figure their another reason you want to get to that temple." Elena didn't need to look at Zachary to share his worry. After what had happened between them the previous night, she herself wondered how far they would go. It was hard to resist the cravings of the flesh and the attraction between them was strong. The priestess didn't know whether she would be able to withstand the temptation. She however was not as worried about being left with a bastard child. She had seen the other women within the temple prepare special potions that would prevent pregnancies or which forced the child out of the womb. If things got serious, she would think back on it again. His words caught her out of her thoughts and she sharply turned to him again, her eyes narrowing slightly as he asked her about her secret. Elena found herself debating whether to tell him or not. It wasn't a personal secret after all. It affected more than just herself. In the end however she reasoned that as her companion and protector he had a right to know. Slowly she lifted the amulet that was hanging around her neck and showed it to him." This is no normal treasure.," she said. "It is the temple's most valuable thing, kept in there for many generations. It is said to belong to the goddess herself. In fact, each of the gods is said to have given a piece of their belongings to the humans. If someone gathers all of them, this human will be given the status of a demigod. This is why all the pieces were hidden all around the world in some temples of their respective gods, but nobody was told which ones. In case of danger however, all the priests and priestesses know that they have to bring their part to the Hidden Temple, so that they won't be stolen." He wasn't supposed to know this. Nobody was, yet she had still told him. Oak felt as if very moment was a test, as he forced himself not to take her there and then, right in the woods.... She was so beautiful. He wanted her so badly, but he was becoming more and more frightened of being left at that temple's entrance with a broken heart." I don't understand. Which can't you just sort of... drop it off? And then come away with me?" he asked, with sad affection in his eyes. He'd only just found something incredibly special, and it'd last no longer then three weeks.... He felt he couldn't live with that sort of knowledge. Elena saw the sadness in her eyes, and it almost made her want to cry. The devotion he held for her made her heart race every time she looked at him, but as she looked down at the pendant she let out a sigh." All my sisters of the temple are dead. I am the last remaining protector of this pendant. I have to be there when its fate is decided, and may or may not be part of it.," she explained. In the end it were the high priests to decide what would happen to it. If they decided she was not needed anymore she was free to go with him, but if they decided otherwise, she'd be bound to stay."" We still have a lot of time together. Let's enjoy the present and not think of the future.," she added, trying to cheer him up. Oak took a deep breathe and smiled. He liked that there was at least a chance they'd be able to leave that temple together. He still had a feeling this might end sadly, but she was right. They had each other for now, and that was what mattered. He should be happy. He was. Furthermore, he leaned in and kissed her cheek." Well. You told me what you were hiding, so I guess it's my turn then, right? Well you might have figured it out, since I'm real bad at lying but... I don't have brother." he said with a smirk, wondering if he'd rally have to spell it out any more than that. Elena almost stopped for a second as his words finally came together in her mind like a puzzle." So you are looking for your SISTER?", she asked in utter awe. When he had spoken about his fiancée's liaison with his sibling, the priestess had been sure that he must have meant his brother. She had heard of many such cases, but this was new. Of course, she had heard about cases of women preferring women over the other sex, but she had never thought she would get close to something like this."I'm sorry. This came a little unexpected.", she apologized, settling down again from her initial reaction." At least your destined bride was definitely pure that way....", she mused. He smiled at her reaction it this "Yes, I suppose Molly is a bit.... different like that. I don't think there's anything wrong with that of course. The two of us were close, and I'm the only one she told. I thought it was kinda cute and romantic that she had this secret fling with the neighbor girl, but now she thinks I stole her girlfriend and probably hates me. So I've got to go and tell her what was really happened." he explained "MOL's real important to me." he said with a sigh. "Of course she is. Family always should be.," Elena said firmly. She herself grew up without her real family, but the people within the temple were all like sisters, so she could understand Oak at least a little."I'm sure your parents will be happy as well when you bring her back." Despite being an orphan, Elena never looked sad when talking about families or parents. In fact, it always cheered her up to hear about people who had the blessing of growing up with their mother and father." You mind if we rest soon. I'm not gonna lie, I'm getting a bit tired.," she said after they walked for at least another two hours. Assailed, having a feeling that this job with getting his sister is much easier said then done. "I'm just wondering what we'll do when we all arrive home. I'll want to keep on adventuring, and.... Well I don't know what her and Annabelle will do. I just hope things go well for them." he says glad, he finally had somebody he can speak so openly to for a change. Elena was so easy to talk to." Well if I'm reading the map right we might be able to get to the next town in an hour, give or take, and it's getting chiller it seems as we approach the mountains..." he says, the towering ice capped peaks making him feel cold just looking at the. "You'll get sick sleeping in this weather in that outfit. Just hold on a bit longer. He was glad that he was right, it wasn't very long at all before they saw the lights of the small town in the distance, and they just barely made it too! They wouldn't be so lucky for their entire journey, he knew. He bought one room at the inn, looking at her, hoping that she didn't mind. Elena dragged herself the rest of the way. She knew that her companion was right. They would freeze if they slept outside. By the time they reached the Inn, the priestess didn't care about anything anymore. She barely made it upstairs where she just fell into bed, letting out a sigh of relief." One more step and I would have passed out on the floor.," she said, turning her head to face him. This journey proved to be a lot harder than she had initial expected."I'm still glad that we get to spend another night in a comfortable bed." "I know what you mean, but at least we covered a lot of ground today." he said laying down beside her on the bed, moving close to her warm body." Same here. And I think you know how much I like sharing a bed with you Miss. Priestess." he teased her as he put an arm around her and brought the covers over them. He was pretty tired too, and he closed his eyes, but there was something on his mind, Luckily when he looked over she was still awake too. He whispered "On this journey of ours... how far do you want to go? I mean, we can't get to serious can we?" She shifted on the bed, so that he could climb in. Moments later they bodies were close again, giving her warmth and comfort. She looked into his eyes as he asked that made her blink in confusion." I didn't think of it as a choice.," she replied honestly. "Whatever happens, happens. The high priestess always that it is impossible to stop emotions and longings. Humans should just follow their desires, but learn how to cope with the consequences." Yes, there were rules, but emotions often overrode them anyway. He knew that both of them were tired. He wouldn't try anything with her tonight. Instead, he just gave her a sweet little kiss on the cheek, held her to him, and closed his eyes as they're cuddling, again having a beautiful, wonderful nights sleep In the morning he'd get up bright and early, and since there was another chance to take a bath, he took it in the corner of the room. He was surprisingly muddy for only one day's worth of travel. Elena slept in properly the next morning, not waking up at all. Even as the sunlight crept through the windows and hit her face, she just hid under the pillow. She felt Oak move away and shortly after she heard the sound of water splashing, but it all felt as if it was far, far away as she was still lost in her world of dreams. It wasn't until two hours later that she eventually blinked and opened her eyes"Morning...," she whispered, rolling over in bed and rubbing her eyes. "Is it late yet?" Oak took a nice long bath and part of him was even a little disappointed that she didn't wake up and catch him, but there'd be time for naughty thought like that later. He got dressed and waited for her to take her time getting up. Smiling at her as she rubbed her eyes as he approached the bed, setting next to her." Not that late, don't worry." he said giving her a long sweet woodworking kiss, nuzzling into her neck and sighing. "Even when you just wake up you look astounding..." he says, feeling in a really great mood. "That's ok then.," she said with a smile before kissing him back. "You seem in an awfully good mood this morning. Did anything good happen while I was still in bed?", she asked curiously with no intention of actually getting up and out." I know we have to move on soon...but I am so comfortable here. I promise I will be ready in an hour though.," she promised. He took a deep breathe and thought about her question a big smile on his face. "Well I had a nice refreshing bath again... But mostly it's been that I've been thinking about what you said last night. Whatever happens. I think I can really be happy with that. I'm going to be honest with you my dear Elena- I think by the end of this journey we're going to be a lot closer..." he said with a smirk kissing her again." I guess what I'm trying to say, to be blunt, is that I'm looking forward to getting to know you better, and romancing you, and one of these days making love with you. No matter what ends up happening when we do get to the temple. We'll always be able to remember the trip." "If you were up for so long you could have woken me.," Elena told him, even though she was quite glad that he had allowed her some sleep. Even though she had never spoken up about it, she was tired from the constant walking. His next words made her heart beat much faster and a small blush creep to her cheeks." You want to make love to me?", she asked. The moment she registered what she had asked she felt silly. The answer was quite obvious, and she knew herself that her wish was quite similar. The attraction between them was getting stronger each day, and she wondered how much longer they would be able to fight against it. Zak's words showed that he didn't want to fight it anymore and Elena knew that she would quickly give in as well eventually. "Of course I do. Whenever you're ready to take that leap, I'll be waiting. I hope I don't sound like I'm rushing you though." he says putting an arm around her and pulling her close, a sweet smile on his face. Then he leans in and give her yet another kiss, but this one much longer than the others that he'd just given her. "Mmm it takes all my restraint, my dear, to keep me off of you..." Elaine kissed him back deeply, closing her eyes and feeling that strange sensation in her body again." Then stop holding back...", she just whispered to him, before pulling him into another kiss." I am always ready for an adventure. I am ready when you are, Oak." He kissed her right back, and soon they were laying together as they kissed, he'd pulled her close and was caressing her curves, trying to decide how they should even start. "This is new to me too..." readmitted as he took off his own shirt for a start. His hands were all other her, gentle brushes of his finger roamed down her neck, her back, moving slightly over her rear before rubbing her thighs gently. "Are you absolutely sure you're ready?" Elena returned his kisses equally passionate, her hands roaming over his body. When he spoke, she reached out with her hand and placed it on his lip."Don't talk. Just do what feels right.," she told him and then leaned in to kiss him again, her hands running up and down his back and chest. He smiled as she spoke. He understood. This kiss was a long one, and soon he found his tongue invading her mouth. As this went on his hands still moved all over her, feeling over her clothes, as he planned to be taking them off very soon. He undid his own pants and pulling off her skirt, wanting badly to get to what he knew would feel right. It was amazing how they could undress without barely breaking the contact of their lips. But soon enough they were both naked on the bed, still kissing as their tongues battled against each other and their hand explored. Eleia loved the feel of his strong body under her fingertips as she explored his naked back and chest. On its own accord one of her hands traveled lower and lower until it could feel his hardening shaft. It was the first time she had touched one and so her touch was tentative and slow. She barely grazed his skin with her fingertips, testing him for his length. Still she couldn't believe that this would disappear inside her. Gave a soft "MMM..." into the kiss when she was exploring him, touching his already hardening length. Once he broke their kiss he took a good look at what was in front of him. Her body seemed so perfect, all the right curves, and her exotic tan and her strange tattoos... he followed the one that was around her belly button playfully with a fingertip. Then he'd feel the softness of her thighs. One hand went back up her stomach and felt a breast, gently carefully he massaged it, rubbing her nipple lightly with a finger. His other hand that had stayed near her waist was sliding so very slowly up her inner thigh and then a single digit rubbed up against her flower. He was just as new to that as she was, and it was all so amazing.

Advanture of his life (closed for Zak1000)|rating:4.0

Bonds of Fate OOC

This is the IOC for KisaraKitsune and Vinny's RP! Here in a minute I'll post my Bio for my characters =D Name: Kira NarukamiAppereance(Yes... I'm using her. haha,) Minus the controller on her arm.Kira's parents do a lot of traveling, since they didn't want her to be alone, and she didn't want to go with due to school she moved to India to live with her Uncle and his daughter. She is friendly, having an aura about her seems to draw people that she could never fully explain. She practiced Kendo for many years, almost never being seen without her practice sword. Furthermore, she was happy that her enrollment at Pastrami High was taken care of quickly, but depressed that there isn't a Kendo club. Little did she know, that India would spark a journey that would change her life, and reveal her as the Wild Card. Persona:UtsuhoImmunity: Light, Dark Weaknesses: Physical Resistance: None------Sorry it's not that great. I was actually stumped on what to put. D:Edit~Name: Alone KinpachiApperanceAge: 16Arcana: ChariotAyane has always been a quiet kid, sitting in the back of class to keep to herself. She is friends with Riley, but he was the only one she really talked to. Compared to her normal self, she really opened up to him and was very talkative. She gets excused early from class frequently to help out her family who run a small shop. She has a strong determination to help people, but comes across as 'angry' to many, due to her mannerisms. Persona:Ares (Persona 3 look)Type: Physical Immune: Light Resist: Physical Weak: Wind Riley Daniels | 16 | Class Rep (president? Which ever they go with lol) 5'10" | Brown Hair | Blue Left Eye, Grey Right Eye Persona - Pro Jack Fiber Daniels | 16 | Soccer Club 5'3" | Auburn Hair | Purple contacts, naturally dark gray Persona - Jack Frost Riley and Fiber were both born and raised in India, but lost their parents at different ages. When Riley was three his parents died in a car accident. Fiber lost his mother shortly after he was born due to complications with giving birth to him and his father, who was a fisherman, was lost at sea when Fiber was five. Both boys were adopted by a middle-aged American couple, Milly and Thomas, shortly after they lost their parents. Now in their teen years they live in the boarding house that Milly and Thomas run near the shopping district. Riley is an outgoing, outspoken young man who is always willing to help others and can often be found working odd jobs around the shopping district when he isn't busy with his duties as the Class Rep for Class 2-2. Fiyero on the other hand, is a shy and quiet young man that can usually be found reading comics on the school roof when it isn't raining. He usually tries to avoid social situations, except for playing on the soccer team. Awesome. Can't wait for this RP to get going. ’D Lol same here! I just posted, so yay! We've finally got it going! Though a question, are we going to keep Junes and just not mention Yoke? Or will we just say he's in a different class? Or we can have a replacement for Yoke. -thinks- That would work too! Lol =3 Oh, and what I'm referring to in the RP... This part LMAO! That's awesome! I'll have to watch the whole thing later, but that's hilarious! XD I couldn't stop laughing when I heard that line. I immediately thought back to my first time playing and thought the same thing! Also, because I can't stop going on about it... I want Persona 4 Arena Ultimate VOODOO BADLY! I anthers badly!!!! The Sadistic Stud-Keeping Secretary... She will be mine when the DLC comes out! Lol that is an awesome line, and he says it so casually, like he's talking about the weather lol. That's awesome! Lol the one I'm really excited about is Persona Q! What all is different with P4 Arena Ultimate? That's what make it perfect! Have you played P4A? If not watch this. That's Margaret's trailer for P4AU. I have the collectors' edition of Persona Q on pre-order. ’D Indeed! lol Nope, but that looks epic! And nice! That's awesome! I'm in the process of saving up for it lol. I may reply one more time then I'm probably going to take off for the night, but I'll be back tomorrow. Furthermore, I'm getting close to needing sleep myself. It's after midnight. I go in for orientation tomorrow, but I will do my best to reply as often and frequently as I can! Ah, we're in different time zones than because it's a little after 11 here lol. Oh, that's cool! I try to post often too, but sometimes my family... there's a lot of drama, but for now it's calmed down. I hope anyhow. Furthermore, I know how that goes. Things can get crazy with family. Yes it can. I'm not sure how things are going to go for the rest of the year or when holidays come around, but we'll get that figured out when it comes time for that. I'm a patient person. If it's a few days between posts, I can handle it. As long as we communicate, I'm game for whatever. I'll reply at least, minimally, once a day when I start work. Alright, generally I send a pm to let my partner know I'm going to be gone, but if it's really crazy then it may be a day or two before I can send a message. Though I think I'm going to turn in for the night now. I hope the rest of your night goes good! You too! And if I am going to not get a chance to reply, I will let you know here! Okay, sounds good!Also, a thought I had, what if they use "the Kendo club" as an excuse to practice/train for going into the TV world? That actually sounds pretty good to me. Oh, If you liked the final boss of P3 The Journey... Listen to this. Even if you haven't, still listen. XD Awesome! I got the idea when I thought about how p3 has s.e.e.s. and that's technically listed as a club lol. They'll still go under the 'Investigation Team' moniker. 3 Also, Which arcane would your two characters be. I do want to ask that for the purpose of my characters Wild Card. Sounds good to me! Umm mm I think Riley will be the Magician and Fiber will be the Star. So, Riley is going to be jealous of Kira, huh? Lol Huh? Lol I know Junta got pretty jealous, but Yoke didn't, unless that happened later on in the game? Max his social link out, it's the last thing. Magicians do that. They do not show it til they reveal it. Oh, you mean when he and the MC have their fight? Lol I forgot about that scene. It could make sense for Riley though, cause since Kira's the wild card that means she'll be the leader right? Since Riley's already used to being the leader cause of being the class rep and all that we could have it be he doesn't really know what to do with himself when he's not in the leader role anymore. He's also jealous because Narukami has the wild card, because his power is more unique than his. Ah okay, I'm going to have to look that scene up on YouTube to rewatch it lol. He doesn't outright say it, but the way he words it pretty much says it. Since the Wild Card draws people towards it, he was jealous because of You's effect on people, as well as everything else. It isn't exactly in your face, but considering I've played P4 a LOT, I've seen to many times. XD Ah okay lol. It's been a while since I've maxed out his social link lol. And this is my first time playing through too lol. P3 on the other hand is a totally different story lol. I've played both so much, its rather stupid. P2 is also fun to me. I wasn't a fan of the original Persona as much, but it was still a game I invested many hours into. Lol that's funny. I had a hard time getting into one and two, though I've been told that it's more than likely because I started on three lol. Sorry my post isn't the greatest in our RP, I'm exhausted tonight. Don't worry, We are only human. I've been working on trying to do longer replies mostly for me, if you feel the need to do smaller replies, feel free. I can work with anything, and not picky about length. Furthermore, I'm just trying to write long replies again, since I've really gotten out of that habit with my ring with Phoenix all the time on Skype. Alright then lol. I generally try to at least write a paragraph, but some days my brains just kinda dead, or I'm pretty tired. And sorry for not replying yesterday, it was kinda a busy day and I never got a chance to get online. It's no problem. I figured something came up So I'm still going to reply once a day to our RP, but I'm also going to be working on my book again, so it may not be until some time in the evening that I reply. This okay, I've been trying to get back into the groove with playing Thou. Haven't' played for a long time, so I'm rusty. x.x But I'm always on, so I'll reply when I notice. What's Thou? Sorry my reply is so short, the repair guy just showed up. It's a series of Damage Shooting Games(AKA, Bullet Hell Shooters). It's a series of games created by Team Shanghai Alice, or better known as a single man who goes by RUN. CurrentlyI've been trying to get back into the game with Thou 11. I'm about ready to kick the game into Lunatic. It's a series that's also got one of the most devoted fan bases and so many amazing circles who produce amazing content. RUN's focus is his games, everything else, he leaves to his fans. Circles have produced full albums based off of songs from the levels. I'll use the current song I'm listening to as an example. Draw The Emotional tookRemilia Scarlet's theme 'Septet for the Dead Princess', the Stage 6 (Final Stage) boss theme from Thou 6: Embodiment of the Scarlet Devil and made melodic Metal remix to it that is just brilliant. Draw the Emotional, Silver Forest, andDemetoriare the three I tend to listen to the most out of the music circles, withEastNewSoundandUI-70thrown in occasionally And then a group went along and did this. The original release didn't have VO till ONE GIRL did all of them. I wish I had her talent... So jealous. Everything that doesn't count the games, or things use within the games, are all fan made. I love this fandom. Also, The length of the reply isn't an issue. 3 Oh nice! That's awesome! It sounds/looks like a fun game! That's really cool! I'll have to check out the whole things later, but the East New Sound kinda made me think of Corpse Party lol.Oh, wow! That's awesome! That sounds like a pretty awesome fandom! I know you've said that before, but I just feel bad when I only reply with two lines Yeah, The Fandom for Thou is brilliant. I love it. The games are insanely hard and will make you rage... a lot. On the EastNewSound song... Yeah... That's the point. The song is Andre's theme U.N. Owen was Her? And since RUN leaves the characters to his fans for their personality, EastNewSound gave her a sorta Ryanair sound. My favorite is the childish little girl who doesn't know how to interact with people and doesn't understand that she is incredibly powerful (From my gathering, the second most powerful character in touhouverse.) Her story is depressing. Her sister is scared of her (Emilia Scarlet) and locked her in a basement for 495 years, with her only interaction being Sakura Mayor the maid. On another note, I stumbled upon T. Piacere who did a unique version of 'U.N. Owen was Her?' Scarlet Serenade. I hadn't heard T. Piacere before this, and after hearing it I did a search for more of their music... Now I need 45, so I can buy the album. T-T and then wait 5 weeks cause of it importing. I'm so sorry for such a delay with our RP! I thought I had replied to it then when I looked today I saw I didn'twhy's that character's sister scared of her? Because she is so strong?Aww, I'm sorry that's going to cost ya $45, and you'd have to wait that long for it. Andre's most powerful technique to find the 'eye' of something, and once she does, she can destroy it. Everything has an eye. People, items, etc. The moment she finds the eye, it appears in her hands. All she has to do is crush it, and whatever it is dies. In one of the few printed media RUN actually released, she destroys a meteor heading towards her using the technique. Needless to say, She cannot control her power, and Scarlet locks her away. I was afraid something was up. It's perfectly fine, I understand that stuff happens. I've done it myself a few times. My reply is horrible. x.x I tried, but I couldn't think of what else to put. I tried. T-T Oh wow! That's crazy! Though I can see how it would be hard to control. Lol no, nothing came up, I think I just read our RP when I was half awake lol. I can't really think of anything to write either. Shall I have it be they make a comment about her being in a band and then one of them realizes they're starting to walk past her place? After that we could skip it to the next day and have them cross paths on the way to school or something? I changed my post a bit, added a little more. That should fix our problem. Also, We need to decide on who gets captured. We've got a few to work on. I just posted! How about Fiber gets captured? And another thought that brings up, how are we going to do the shadow self deals? Did you want Kira to have one or stick with how it goes in the game? I was thinking I'd follow the anime actually when Kira faces her shadow, but instead have it like the game overall instead with it being a legit fight and not a 'showing of bonds' moment as the anime has it. The shadow isn't til MUCH later, and near the end of the game arc of this RP. I like the anime (both) adaption of the TV World beginning(You obtains his Persona in the first visit, both times Chai is knocked out by the shadows) and when You does face his shadow, which is the anime's version of the secret boss (if you did the secret boss in 3... it's not a surprise.) The scene I am talking about (from the anime) has my favorite remix of Aria of the Soul (The Bond of Everyone's Soul), Not counting Margaret's theme from Persona 4 Arena Ultimate. Now, onto the RP, this would mean that Riley would face his shadow first, and Kira fights it. So I'll leave it up to you to decide that one so it's not a solo RP session (even if when I reveal Tho, It's going to be semi-solo and a long post. o.o). I will admit, I would love to keep Rise as one of the original cast along with Eddie. If you want anyone else to stay, Just say. I'm content with a majority of the cast staying since we just replaced You, Yoke, and Yumiko. We'd need a new Chai. I can come up with a character quickly :3Edit: I made a new character. My first post has her. If we create anymore, we should just update our posts. If you want, I can come up with more Ah okay then, I still need to watch the anime lol. Okay, I could have it be a back and forth between Riley and Shadow Riley until he turns into a full-blown shadow, then we could do the fight scene for a few posts and go from there =)Then how bout we keep Rise and Eddie? And what about keeping Kanji? He's one of my favorites lol. And alright lol. That sounds good to me! If you'd like when they come into the game, I could play Eddie and Kanji? Kanji is hilarious, I always like him. But that does work for me. I can play Rise when that time comes. This just leaves NATO, and I'd almost say leave them in as well. NATO is my favorite =3 Yes he is! Poland awesome! We got more characters! I'd be up for NATO staying in too! I'm still at the beginning of NATO's dungeon thing. Furthermore, I need to start playing again You'll need to beat it before we get to that point. =3 I'm hoping I'll be past that point once the time comes lol. Btw I'm going to try replying to our RP later today =3 Sounds fine by me. Reply when you want. I'm not in a rush. Hey Hun I'm really sorry to do this, but I think I'm going to have to take a short hiatus from ring, just for like a week or two. It's still a couple of weeks from Thanksgiving, I know, but with it coming up there's a lot of drama starting up with my family again. My sister can't tell anyone the same story twice and with it being the first holidays without my grandma stuff is just hitting me kinda hard at the moment. I'll still come on to chat and what not, but rps are just going to be put on the back burner for now. Understandable. Do not fret. Thanks for telling me. Sorry to hear of the problems, and I hope things go well! Thanks, I just wish my sister would act her age. I mean, for crying out loud she's on her fourths, but she's acting like a kid having a tantrum. And of course I'd tell ya, nothing sucks more than someone randomly disappearing from your RP, and they never say anything about why they did. If there is anything I can do, just let me know. ’D Thank shun, I will =3If you want you could always join me and some of the others in my hang-out thread The Night Crew. That's where I've been mainly posting and at the moment kinda ranted about my day today. I've been playing Town of Salem and a few other things lately. I've been trying to keep up with my RP here... and slightly failing. x.x Town of Salem? What's that game? It's a F2P Browser game. It's hard to explain, but it's easier if you watch Minx'video (Warning: loud start) on it. Furthermore, it's addicting. Furthermore, it's challenging, but you get a lot of douchebags... even with them, it's still a lot of fun. Ah, okay lol. Hellos! I know it's been a while since our RP, but I think things are calming down enough that I can come back from my hiatus! Were you still interested in our RP? Very much so! My replies have been slow because of insane holiday season. x.x Awesome! I'll try to post later today then lol. That's pretty much the reason I went on my hiatus lol, the holidays are insane! How'd yours go btw? =3 Pretty boring. Ended up buying myself gifts for the season. Namely... The Persona Q 3DS (Now to get the game), Pokémon Alpha Sapphire, Destiny, Battlefield 4 and CoD Ghosts. How'd your go overall? I'm sorry it was boring, and you had to buy your own gift shun. That's cool you got all those games though! I got Persona Q too! My holiday actually went better than I thought it would. There was some drama with my sister, but she wound up just not joining us. Though even with that being the case it still went perfect. That's good to hear. At least it went better. Random idea for Alone. What if she's related to Dietary or at least that's who she's working for. Random thought, figured I'd throw it out. No kidding! I was so happy about that lol. Yea, I'd be up for that =3 It was a random idea I had today after thinking about it. It would be a way to tie in Dietary in a way like Chai. Yea, I think that'd work perfectly =3 that's a good idea! If you got any ideas, throw them out. I'm always all ears for ideas and the like Can do! At the moment I can't think of any ideas but if I do, I'll let ya know! How's your night going? Hey, It's going good. Sorry for the late reply. Was playing Destiny. Was trying to get the last bit of my marks, so I can prepare for the reset. Need meh gear. Lol no worries, my hubby plays that game all the time! At the moment I'm attempting to wake up, once I fully do, I shall reply to our RP lol. I just woke up. Going to head out, Pick up my RUBY DVD I ordered (Which came FAR faster than they said), and then I'm coming home and will be able to RP :D Nice! Sorry I haven't replied yet, I definitely will tonight though! I'm heading to the dentist now XP Ouch, Sorry to hear that. It's fine, I'm in no rush. Reply when you are able. I'm back now Okay so question with our RP, shall I basically just have the boys say their goodbyes, sum up their night, and go ahead and start the next morning? Also, did we decide on how to have them discover the midnight channel? I don't think we did, but I had a thought of maybe Fiber's online and reads a rumor about it maybe? What do you think? =3 I'd assume the boys would have heard the rumor anyway, and one of them brings it up at Junes(sorta like the game/anime). We can play it by ear, but I'd assume that rumor would be well known as it is anyway. If it's your reply, just sum it up, and we can do the next day if you'd like. That's true lol, I kinda forgot about that. Okay, can do! Sorry for the delay, real life and the game 999 are kinda distracting me lately lol If it's the same game I'm thinking of, It was a good game. Can't remember the order and right words that follow the 9s, however. I understand fully how that goes and haven't been worried about the RP. As long as things are going good, that's fine by me. I can wait, I am patient. I got way too excited yesterday when I heard about Blaze Chronophantasm Extend because of the two characters they are adding. Lambda-11 is returning and Celia A. Mercury is being added for the console release. And her theme is just...holy hell. I can't wait for her to be playable now. And I just listened to Yuzuki Term's new theme and was floored. It fit him so much better! I had to edit my post to say that. Also, Just picked up Fantasy Life (since Persona Q hasn't arrived at GameStop yet. They found a CE for me since I had to cancel my Preorder for life reasons). Good game so far. Also been playing Guilty Gear 3rd -Sign-. To many games. DX Lol was it Nine Hours, Nine Persons, Nine Doors? If so then yup that's it! Thanks for understanding Hun! lol What's Blaze Chronophantasm Extend? And that's cool your so excited for it! =3A friend of mine was telling me about Fantasy Life! I'm still looking for it lol. I'm sorry you had to cancel your preorder Hun. Lol I know what you mean by too many games, I still have two others I haven't even played yet lol. Blaze is fighting game developed by Arc System Works. The same people who made Persona 4 Arena and P4A Ultimate. It's older than P4A, but they are releasing their extended addition, and the new tracks, new character(and the returning character) have me welcoming the idea. That's it. I just had the order mixed. The PQ Collectors showed up... and I'm so excited to start playing. Persona 3 route. Here I come! Ah okay lol, I think you've told me about that before lol.Oh, nice! It's a really fun game lol X3Nice! That's the same route I'm playing too! XD I love both, but... Yeah. Into, Let's go! Indeed! I love Aka and Shinji's bickering in this one XD I got to floor three, then started up the P4 side of the story. Beat that Lab in a rather quick time and holy hell... The entrance of Into was priceless.... BUT.... I went back, finished it with the P3 story... Oh my god, I died with the poses... Junpai and Yoke's conversation about it made me laugh. Lol I haven't gotten that far yet, I just got to the stairs to floor three in the P3 labyrinth. I may play more later tonight but for now it's dinner time lol. You'll understand when you see Junta and Yoke talking... You'll know what part I mean. Lol okay then =3 I haven't played anymore yet because I've been distracted with reading other things lol. Though I will reply to our RP in the morning! Take your time. I've been just leveling my entire team up now. I do not want anyone left behind. Reply whenever you get the chance! I'm a patient per! Been working on a few stories on top of playing. I keep forgetting to do that my main team has been Junta, Akihito, Yuri, and Ken. They're all level six now but everyone else... I think they're level three? I need to work on that lol. Lol thank shun, I appreciate that! What kinda stories? =3 My main party right now since I'm far enough is Into (Leader), You, Coronary, Yumiko, and Zen/REI, but I’m getting everyone to 13. Oh, and if you have the Persona abilities. The F.O.E.s Card Soldiers that aren't the painters can be fought in a long, but awesome battle at level 8. Just make sure you have at least attack lowering abilities. I have four I'm writing, One is on Hiatus til I'm in the mood which is a Pokémon FIC. A Star Fox story, A Final Fantasy/Naruto Cross over challenge story, and a RUBY/Persona Q, 3, 4 cross over. I can always PM you the site I use to post them. Oh, nice! And thank shun! I'll keep that in mind =3 Do you get any cool items after beating the F.O.E.s? On nice! That's awesome =3 God I can't remember the last time I was able to work on a fanfic lol. I wish ya luck with your writing though Hun! They give you a chance to make new items at Theo. Also, the EXP is nice, so when you can find them they are worth it. Just be careful of the painter cards. The normal cards are 11/12 or so, the painters are 15, so they are a little trickier. Despite working, and everything I always try to find time to RP and write. Was actually working on my Persona/RUBY story last night when I was taking a break from playing PQ Oh nice! That's cool you can get new items lol. I'll have to keep all that in mind, thank shun! =3That's cool! Do you have these up on fanfiction.net? I do not really use FF.net. To many flamers and trolls. I use a forum someone else created. Everyone there is nice. Ah, okay lol. I haven't posted on there in forever lol. Would you mind if I read your story sometime? =3 I sent you a PM with the site link. I post all four of my stories there. Sweet! Thank you! I'll check them out tomorrow =3 You'll need to create an account to view them. But I look forward to hearing what you think. Lol I did! I'm Vinny XIII there lol. It's a little odd navigating the site, but I can figure it out when I'm more awake lol. Is it A New Journey that's the persona cross over one? Maze of Life New Journey is my Pokémon story Also, If you ever see me on there and I haven't replied for whatever reason. PM me or something. I have like... 9 tabs open at a time and sometimes forget to check all of them. >.>Also, You can tell it's the right Author. My avatar is Ketone Shoji(P3PFemMC) Lol I'm the same way with tabs! I'll remember that though =3Okay, I'll keep that in mind! Hey, I'm sorry if I come off as kind of... weird. I'm still kind of being affected by the news of Monty Out. Lol nah you're not coming off weird Hun. And Monty Out? The creator of RUBY and a lead animator of Rooster Teeth. He passed away two days ago. OMG!! That's insane! What happened? It's easier if you read thejournalthat was posted about it. Okay, I'll check that out after dinner. ---------- Post added 02-04-2015 at 09:02 PM ---------- Oh wow, that's crazy! It wasn't exactly great news to hear. But I was glad they were straight forward with us on it. No kidding. At least he was surrounded by people that loved him, and he wasn't in pain. I looked up more on it when I told my husband about it, and he was shocked to hear it too. This furthered my drive to write my story, which I've been working on rather carefully. I hope to get chapter 2 up in the next few days. Nice! That's awesome Hun! I'll reply to our RP later tonight. I'm going down to the shop today so for the afternoon my replies are being written on my phone lol. Reply as needed. -nods- Lol thank shun.How are you doing today? I'm doing pretty good. The two albums I ordered months ago are finally here, so I've been listening to them. The fact they showed up made my day.(Well Days, One showed up today the other yesterday). How are you? That's good Hun. Oh, nice! That's awesome Hun =3I'm doing pretty good, we just got back to town, and now I'm finally able to reply to stuff since my phone died while we were gone lol. I hate when that happens with my MP3 player. I want my music... Need to find out how to get the opening of Memories of Phantasm in good quality. Ah, Touhou! Fandom... How I love thee. The two Albums I ordered are also from a Domain Circle(Demeter) involving Thou music. I tend to use Memories of Phantasm as Proof that it's a great fandom. haha, Not very good proof mind you, but eh. Whatever. If they can keep making such a good anime, I'll always watch it... Considering Episode 4 was finally released and dubbed, I'm excited about the next arc. Also... Did we decide who goes missing first? o.o, and how do we work around the Saki issue? Who passes in her place? I know right? Lol I wish ya luck with getting that Hun! =3 Oh nice, that's awesome! Lol proof is proof though lol. That's cool they finally got another episode out =3Ummm... I can't remember if we decided on who goes missing first. Though as far as our Saki goes, why don't we use that girl Chirico I created that's in the student council with Riley? Edit:I can't find anything about who goes missing first. Do you have any preferences? Chirico would be perfect. Riley would have the same emotional break down/anger issues that Yoke gets. To be honest, Fiber is taking Chai's place while Alone is taking Yumiko's from the way I'm looking at it. So I think Alone is the first. Alone does work, and can have a similar issue to Yumiko. This also means, Kira and Riley are this RP's partners. :P I always liked it that You and Yoke are both the leaders pretty much, with You taking Combat lead... Always found that kind of cool instead of Into. 'You can use multiple Persona, here you lead us now!' Sounds good! And lol I noticed that too! That sounds like a good idea to me! Lol that's true! Same here, I thought that was pretty cool lol. I always thought that was a funny reason to make someone your leader, but it worked lol. Aaaaahhh! I swear stuff doesn't wanna work with me today! TTI was just trying to vacuum our couch, and apparently I can't use the hose function for very long cause as I'm halfway through the couch I notice something's smelling hot. I turn off the vacuum and move it to check it out and discover that the vacuum was freakinmeltingour rug! Thank god it wasourrug and not the house's carpet! I can't imagine what the people we rent through would say to that! Not to mention I'm frustrated with all the drama going on with my family. Just... ugh! I can so tell it's Monday and I can't wait till dinner, so I can make myself a drink! Pour me one too. Booze sounds nice. x.x -looks to fridge- I got a beer to drink however if I want. I know how stuff like that goes. The Rug issue reminds me almost of when the apartment I rented from blamed me for their pipes busting and leaking into my apartment. When I was the one that reported the problem. D: I hope you like tequila! Lol That's what I'm planning on drinking. Or I've got Mike's too. I can't stand regular beers, I'm more of a hard alcohol person lol. Dude that's insane! That's like the time Audrey (The gal across the street that used to rent from the same people as us) reported her pipes breaking too, but they tried to blame it on her "flushing a tampon" when really it was the roots from her tree that broke it! I can drink anything. I prefer Vodka but really, Not worried about the kind. XD Yep... That about sums up how some people renting places want to act. x.x Lol vodka's not too bad, I can't handle more than one shot though. Unless it's the flavored kind or if it's in something lol. No kidding! I swear I'm not ignoring our RP, I'm just still working on housework XP Hey, No worry. I'm sitting here playing Persona 3 again. haha, Oh that's funny lol. How's your night going? Monad is raging me but... other than that, going good. NG+ run right now so I've been just focused on that. Aww, I'm sorry Hun, fun though lol. Btw I just made a mule account that's also going to be my account for when I'm on my phone =3 Nice. I've been training in Monad Depths for a while. Got everyone to 40~ and MC is 88 since this is NG+ Oh nice! That's awesome Hun! Oh yeah, Monad Depths is broken for NG+ leveling. Really? I didn't know that, that's kinda a bummer you can't level there. I'll post in our RP later tonight. Furthermore, I think I'm finally getting over the flu again! OH, no, no no, You can level like CRAZY. As I said, I got my team to level 55 and me to 90 just from 15 fights in Monad Depths... With them from their start leveling. (I just got Mitsuki). Hence... It's broken, You level like mad. Alright. Just to let you know, I am leaving town Saturday and won't be back for 9 days. Going to see family. Oh! Oh! I misunderstood that lol. Okay Hun, I hope you have fun with your family! =3 I'm hoping it all goes good, but you'll hear about it when I'm back. :)Long three-way post! Yay! Lol =3Indeed lol, bet it got you some good gold though lol. I wish I could come up with longer posts lately, but I'm just having issues writing all the way around XP Eh, It's just easy with three people you are ring with it. I could have done more, but actually kept it simple. haha, Lol that's true. And I thank you for that Hun lol. I'm still feeling pretty drained from being in the her last night, so I'm going to reply to our RP later. Hey, I got a chance to jump on. How are things going? They have been busy here, and I also wanted to let you know I am extending my stay with family. I wanted to let you know that I was, and also that I am also going to try and poke on more frequently. Hey Hun! Things are going a lot better now! I'm finally over whatever that bug was I had. That's awesome you get to see your family longer Hun! =3 And okay lol. Unfortunately I think I've hit a writer's block when it comes to our RP. I've been trying to figure out a reply for the last few days but nothing comes to me. I'm sorry Hun. Fiber seemed a bit unsure about all this so you could have him voice a concern since she mentioned the pain level. Maybe along the lines of talking Alone and Riley 'Is this really a good idea?' sorta reply. Just trying to help, If that doesn't help then I can add more and push us further. Please let me know. Also, I've been sick the weekend. So it sucked. Also, I might have a few things changing around here myself.

Bonds of Fate OOC|rating:2.0

The Roommate (Kiva10 x Hybridhalf)

RAI sighed softly as he read from the advertisement he had printed off earlier that evening. He needed a new place to stay, but options were limited. It was an absolute miracle that this place appeared online. An opening for a roommate. What was odd was the asking price though. Negotiable. Usually, these kinds of people would have put something up at least. Oh, well. He was out of a job at the moment, so this would probably be the best he could do for a while. Rai stood at a mediocre height with a slender, but curvy build. All through school, he had been made fun of for that along with his feminine appearance. In fact, most people outright called him REI. Quickly, he brushed a strand of his, shoulder-length, white hair from his face, entering the apartment complex to find the one listed on the advertisement. He really dressed casually. A white tee shirt that hung loose on him and a pair of jeans. He didn't really think to come in full business for a simple interview. That was also the reason he only carried a single bag with him. The rest of his stuff was in a storage unit. It took some searching, but he finally stumbled upon the listed apartment. RAI paused for a moment before finally taking the leap, knocking lightly on the door. Lacey (had just stepped out of the shower, and heard the tapping on the door." Perfect timing.....*grumble mumble*"she said to herself as she quickly wiped herself down, and bundling her hair and slipping on a robe. Walking to the door, she looked out of the peephole and noticed a young looking guy. Or was it a female? It was hard to look through the peephole, but nonetheless, a quick looks and the door opened, stopped by the door chain." May I help you um.........dear?"she said, unsure who was on her doorstep. The partial opening of the door still did not give Lacey a good idea who it was on the doorstep, but perhaps a little talking would help things." You're here about the apartment roommate deal, aren't you?"she inquired. The smell of freshly cleaned skin and heat waited into the hallway. RAI had begun to shake in his shoes as he awaited for the current resident to open the door. Finally, there was a voice. It was little more than a mumble at the moment, but the gender was obvious. "A girl?" he muttered under his breath as the door was opened. The fresh sent of soap flooded his nostrils. Had she just left a shower? Then that would mean... A light blush touched the feminine male's cheeks as he was addressed. The 'dear' thing was a bit off, but he was used to it." Y-Yes," he began quickly, "I'm RAI. I saw the advertisement and wanted to possibly discuss becoming your roommate?" He could only see part of her face through the small crack in the door. He wasn't able to get a good look, but she definitely seemed easy on the eyes. It didn't appear that RAI was too threatening, as Lacey looked him over through the door." Hold on." The door slammed shut and a slide of a chain later, the door opened to Lacey clad in only towel wrapping her hair and a robe that covered most of her body except for a foot or so of her legs and feet." Wish you called me first, but I can make exceptions for you. Enter." Watching RAI enter, she noticed the small bag and adopted a bit of a defensive mentality just in case things didn't seem what they were. Once the door closed, Lacey offered RAI a seat." Do you wish for me to talk to you about the roommate thing now, or can it wait till I'm in something more appropriate?"she asked of her visitor, in an almost stern yet authoritative voice. She then backtracked bit before RAI could respond." Wait......let's just start it, no pussy footing around...."she said,"Did you want something to drink first before we start?"offering to her visitor. RAI's blush grew quickly when she suddenly opened the door, revealing the robed woman. She was mostly covered, but still... Just knowing... The young male nodded lightly and entered quickly, feeling the door close behind him. "S-Sorry..." he apologized shyly, "I was just excited and forgot to call... Probably would have been better though." An awkward chuckle escaped him as he took the offered seat, taking a quick glance up to her. He opened his mouth to speak at her question, but had no time to give any sort of answer, quickly offering him a drink." I-I'm fine thank you," he spoke lowly, feeling slightly intimidated by her tone of authority, "I had read that the minimum payment was 'negotiable.' What exactly did you mean by that? The issue is... I'm kinda out of a job at the moment. My old roommate kicked me out just the other day. I've got an interview lined up so I will be able to bring in money within the month... If I get hired that is..." That last part was spoken under his breath. The living room and kitchen were simply furnished, with some images of drawn women hanging from the walls. An office area was to the side of one wall, and several huge suitcases and chests lay nearby. Hearing that RAI was jobless and asking about the negotiable terms of her ad was bit of a shock to Lacey. Bringing back a glass of water, she offered it up without impunity as she went over and sat across from her visitor. She sat in a way that did offer a clear view up her robe, but not up to her crotch." It is bit disheartening to hear of your troubles, and to be honest, I do have a right to not even give a fuck about it. But......" She leaned over bit to take the glass, her robes parting bit to show her cleavage." I did say I was negotiable, and I am a fan of seeking out alternative means whenever possible." Taking a drink, Lacey continued." I am willing to negotiate, but understand this much RAI. What I am about to propose to you will entail things that......are bizarre to say the least. Anytime you don't wish to hear further of what I am to offer, just say so, and I will stop and help you part with me amicably." Looking back, Lacey's eyes grew like a cougar stalking its prey." Do you wish to hear of my proposal for room and board RAI?" RAI's eyes wandered around the apartment, taking in his surroundings. His attention, however, went back to her when she finally spoke. However, his attention wasn't really to her face. His gaze trailed up her legs. Quickly, he looked back up, a blush prominent against his pale complexion. The robe wasn't really doing much to conceal herself. In fact, she seemed to be teasing him with her exposed flesh. "I-I understand..." he began, downfallen. His mood did lighten though when she said that she would be willing to negotiate. However, it would be bizarre. The young male couldn't care less though. He found a home." I'd be willing to do anything if I could stay here!" he spoke quick before falling quiet, "S-Sorry... I mean go ahead." A light chuckle escaped Lacey's lips."You're going to need enthusiasm for what I have my dear boy......" Standing up, she walked over to the suitcases and heaved one from its resting place and dragged it over to the table. As she was carrying the suitcase, the folds of her robe opened ever so briefly, and RAI saw something in between her legs that....wait, it couldn't be....... Putting the suitcase onto the table, the robe's folds closed back up, hiding Lacey's "modesty." As she unzipped the case, she talked." I think this is a good way to explain what I do. Rather show you than explain it and you get lost." Opening the case, the lid reveals a case full of BDSM gear. The stereotypical whips and chains, cuffs and gags, crops and floggers.....you name it, it was probably in that suitcase." I'm a Dominatrix, RAI. I beat people who want to be beaten up willingly." She paused for a bit to allow RAI to take it all in." Do you want to go down further in the rabbit hole?" RAI was getting excited as she moved over to one of her suitcases, lifting it up. Was she asking him for something around the apartment instead of paying? If that were the case, then this would be much easier than he tho.... What was that?! The feminine male's eyes caught strange movement beneath her robe. Like... Like... There was absolutely no way! His gaze shot up when she placed the suitcase onto the table before him, opening it up to reveal the S&M gear inside. A... A dominatrix?! Really?! He was silent, caught in a stunned gaze as she spoke to him. Everything inside was telling him to say no and bolt it out of there. Yet... This was the only place he could go. Reluctantly, he gulped." I-I-I" he stuttered, "C-Continue..." "Like I said, if you feel uncomfortable at any time, just tell me." Lacey said as she let the lid lie to the side." You may touch the stuff inside the suitcase if you so wish. Right, so whatever thoughts you might be thinking, just hold up for a minute there." Going through the paces, Lacey tried to reassure RAI of her intent." If you want to live with me rent-free, I will ask of you to "help me" with my job as a Dominatrix and around the house. It's only fair seeing the only thing you seem to have to compensate for is labor. That means cleaning and organizing my gear, cleaning the home, and perhaps helping me with sessions." Taking a pause, she walked over to RAI's bag and looked at it." May I?"she asked before looking into the bag." If you want, I could provide clothing, but it will be of my choice and volition. Think of it as "uniforms" for the workplace." Putting the bag down, she looks back to RAI." Also, I might ask of you for other things, but that can be discussed at a later time. It might seem like I'm asking much of you, but I think given the situation, I am willing to open my home to you......if you compensate me likewise." RAI sighed in relief when she said that he really would only be used to help maintain some of the stuff she used. That sounded a lot better than what went through his mind at first. When she took his bag, he nodded lightly. "Go ahead," he began, "It's not much. Just a change of clothes and some toiletries." Inside the bag was, in fact, just another set of clothes. A black tee shirt and another pair of jeans. Of course there was a toothbrush and toothpaste. Not much else though. "The rest of my stuff is in a storage building that a friend is letting me borrow," he continued, "Mainly, It's just got some old pictures, trinkets, and another couple pairs of clothes." In truth, RAI really did not have many clothes so the offer of her buying him some more clothes did seem nice. He back down at the suitcase, blushing brightly as his eyes rolled over the sex toys that were inside. Of course, RAI was a virgin, and actually pretty innocent if one got down to it. "It all sounds really fair actually," he admitted, "I'd be more than willing to help keep things up here in exchange for you opening your home up to me. Thank you so much miss..." His eyes shot open when he realized that he never got a name from her. "Um..." he started nervously, "What do I call you?" "For now, Miss Lacey." she replied to the inquiry. She was glad RAI took her up on the offer. But there were a few things that needed ironing out." So far, we can agree on that your stay here is compliant to you serving me as a house servant, for lack of a better descriptor." Looking to sit back down, Lacey sits, and continues on rambling." Uh, also, I will provide you with clothing, some of which I will require you to wear. It will be....."different." And a few other things that will come when it comes." Lacey, in her absent-mindedness, doesn't realize that her robe did part and showed her "naughty bits." namely, part of her breasts and the cock that was between her legs. It had gone loosely as she moved around, but in her haste to get RAI settled in to the lodging, she didn't keep tabs on her clothing. And right in front of RAI, she was pretty much flashing him. Only not what he expected. RAI nodded to Lacy's terms. It sounded fair. She even offered him some clothing. It honestly sounded too good to be true. "So uniforms?" He asked, curious, "For when you want me to help with your sessions right?" He truly was innocent. Furthermore, he knew of what a dominatrix did, but he was still unknown to him. Relaxed, his eyes scanned over the suitcase, taking in the tools of her trade. How could some people enjoy this? Rai looked up to his hopeful roommate, opening his mouth to speak. No words left his mouth, however. Her robe had fallen open some, exposing her soft flesh. A powerful blush took over the young male as his eyes traced down her body, suddenly falling on the extra appendage hanging between her legs. So he did see what he thought he saw earlier. RAI's jaw dropped when his mind processed just what he saw." H-H-H" he stuttered, eyes still locked on her cock, "Which... A-Are you a guy?!" The white-haired teen suddenly leaned back in his seat, face now a scarlet red. "Uniforms....for sessions that I do and around the house. I won't have you going around in a maid's outfit 24/7 if that's what your thinking. You will have normal clothing to go out...." Lacey went on, hopefully clearing the air about RAI's role. But his question got abrupt as he asked if she was a guy." Oh?" Lacey remarks, surprised at RAI's query. She looked down and noticed that her robe had gone undone, and she was exposing her tits.....and cock." Ah, I see......."she remarks." I was RAI.......till I underwent a change. I'm kinda halfway through it......being a Dominatrix pays for the transformation." She undoes the robe and goes nude, right in front of RAI. Her top has breasts that are ample and firm, yet below, her cock is flaccid, yet bigger than it looks. She does this nonchalant, being as neutral as possible." I can understand if you're quicker out by this. Like I said, if you wish to leave, I can understand." Lacey says to RAI." But.....if you do have an open mind, your stay here can be enjoyable to say the least. I did give you leeway over not calling me beforehand now......take that into account."she reminded of her guest, trying to at least keep the situation from going out of hand. RAI's eyes were locked on the Fulani, trying to make sense of what he saw. Thankfully she explained the situation.... But wasn't really trying to cover herself up. The young male managed to pull his gaze away and back down to his hands as Lacey continued to speak. Well... Was it that bad? Honestly, he thought that the... FTA before him was going to be a man in the first place." W-Well it was just sh-shocking is all..." He spoke quickly and lowly, "You just look like... Y'know... I... W-Well..." His voice trailed off as he thought his next words. He could say no to all this now and just walk away, but this was the only place he could get... Lesser of two evils here. "I-I'd be okay with it," he half-lied, "I'll try to be more open-minded while I'm here." He sighed and looked down to his hands, wringing them softly. It was obvious he wasn't wanting to look at her. Lacey could see the nervousness of RAI in his body language and his words. While she was in the business of manipulating people, she could not in good conscience manipulate RAI into something he wasn't okay with. To a point." I want you to feel comfortable RAI.......if you do need a place to stay due to your circumstances that you have described, I am willing to offer it. Just you need to feel comfortable with me and my lifestyle." Lacey looked at RAI more deeply and an idea came to her head." Look, you came this far, the least I can do is offer you a chance to clean up and relax for the night. You did catch me at a time when I have a free period from my work. At least accept my hospitality for the night. Give you a chance to see what you're getting into." She leaned over and looked at RAI with an authoritative stare." I want you to look at me directly and say you'll accept my hospitality RAI. It'll beat being on the street or in some sketchy flophouse tonight." Her tone of voice was firm yet fair. Whether RAI would accept was another matter entirely. RAI still squirmed in his seat in front of the exposed... Man or woman... It was obvious that he was still nervous about the whole arrangement. He needed to be comfortable with this. He would try what he could to do so. With a sigh, he opened his mouth to speak, but was quickly stopped when Lacey began to give him another offer. The young male's face lightened up a little. This would be the best way to see if this all would work. Rai had to force himself to stare at her face, giving a small smile. "I accept your hospitality. At least for the night." He paused for a moment, choosing his next few words lightly. "Thank you for putting up with me through this..." he spoke lowly, "I should have called. I... Well... I'm sorry for getting so shocked there a moment ago... I'll try to keep an open mind." Lightly, he reached across the table and retrieved his bag. It would be better to stay the night there. It was a good half-hour walk to that storage building. "Hammer, where to bunk you...." Lacey said, standing up. Her cock dangled in the air freely as she turned to where the bedrooms are." Oh come on, let's see where you'll feel comfortable....." The hallway had several doors on either side, which was unusual for a typical apartment. Then again, the building was a converted office space, so space was plentiful." I can't quite bunk you in the webcam room, I haven't cleaned the sheets since the last session....."she pointed to one door." No to the dungeon......"pointing to another door." Unless you want to sleep with little old me...."she teased to RAI." Ah, one of my guest rooms. This is the "servants" quarters...."she remarked as she opened the door. The room was simply furnished, with a bed, table w. chair below a window, a dresser, makeup table, and an exposed large closet that took up a good chunk of one side of the room. A TV sat on top of the dresser, pointed to the bed." This would be the room that I would rent out to the roommate. The other one is a guest room that I do need just in case unexpected things happen......like a slave who can't quite make it home after a session or Age Play sessions....."she rambled." I'll give you some space; I'll look into you in an hour for a bath and dinner. Among other things...... "Lacey closed the door behind her as she left, leaving RAI alone. RAI nodded, blushing lightly when she stood, causing her cock to dangle freely between her legs. Why she hadn't even bothered fixing her robe was a mystery to him. However, he did stand, throwing his bag over his shoulder, to follow her down the halls. These apartments were really well done. There were about several rooms that Lacey must use for her own purposes. He listened to her name off each room. Webcam?! Dungeon?! His face turned a shade of pink as he walked close behind her, his innocent mind trying to understand just what she must use those for. At the offer of sleeping with her, he chuckled nervously." I-I don't think that would work," he attempted to laugh, glancing at the halls until she stopped and showed her the 'servants' quarters. RAI did raise an eyebrow at the name, but let it slide as he scanned the room. It was simply furnished, but enough to live in. "Thank you," he spoke softly, setting down his bag next to the bed. "Alright," he said cheerfully, sitting down on the mattress, "Just let me know." Once the door was closed, RAI sighed softly and laid onto his back. Lacey was nice... And the free room and board was a plus, but was this really the right thing for him? It wasn't like he had any other options though. For the time being, he would just need to keep an open mind and go through with everything. Closing his eyes, he rested until Lacey called. An hour later, Lacey shook RAI up from his slumber. Wearing a very revealing set of lingerie and her cock just hanging down through the crotchless panties, (~~60_3.JPG?rt=NC) she woke him quite vociferously." Yo, time to wake up." As she walked to the table, she scooted the chair out and sat. On the table lay a nylon collar, a sheer sleeveless tank top shirt, and boy shorts, all black." I want you to take a bath and meet me in the kitchen wearing these. First, you will strip in front of me and give me your clothing. NOW."she ordered. It was apparent that her attitude and voice had changed dramatically. Like she was getting into her Dominatrix role....." Once you show me your nude body and I permit leave, take the clothing and then go into the bathroom and take a bath. Quickly. Once done, dry off, put the clothes on, and report to the kitchen. I'm in both a good and BAD mood, so I rather be done with this quickly. We both have some business to take care of."she barked out; clearly something was up. RAI's eyes shot open at the sudden shaking, tearing him away from his sleep. He sat up groggily, rubbing his eyes lightly. "It's been an hour already?" he asked, pulling his hands away from his eyes, "It really only felt like a Fe-...." His words fell silent as his eyes adjusted and took in the form of Lacey wearing lingerie, her mismatched cock dangling through the open crotch of her panties. "What the hell?!" he exclaimed, suddenly shooting back on the bed. Before he could say anymore, she gave an order." S-Strip?!" he nearly cried out, standing up quickly, "What the hell is going...." RAI stopped, remembering her words from earlier. Keep an open mind. The young male stopped moving, a light blush touching his cheeks. She seemed to be acting the part of the Dominatrix that she was. Perhaps this was a test? Sighing, he sat back down onto the bed, taking off his shoes and socks and setting them over to the side. Next, he pulled the white t-shirt up over his head, placing it behind him. His exposed chest seemed to be devoid of any hair whatsoever. Standing, he pulled off his belt, undoing the button and allowing the jeans to pool at his feet. He was only left in his underwear when he stopped. "U-Uh..." he muttered, "A-All of it?" Seeing RAI struggle with the change was both amusing, yet a test from Lacey to see how well her potential new roommate would fare. As he stripped, Lacey took note of his body, seeing how he looked. Impressed by what she saw, his hesitance in going full Monty was charming. Leaning over bit, she took a finger and snapped the elastic of the undies on RAI." Yes dummy, all of it. I'm not going to jump you or force you onto the bed and have hot steamy sex with you.....or anything even related to sex." The way Lacey said this without impunity, even with the pre-warning beforehand, would be a shock to RAI." Off with the undies RAI, or consider yourself on the streets tonight....."she threatened. A massive blush had covered his entire face as he felt her eyes scan over his nearly-nude body. RAI gulped heavily when Lacey suddenly came forward. He did, however, expect more than her just snapping the elastic of his underwear. He gasped lightly as she spoke. Furthermore, he sighed in relief when she told him that she had no plans of having sex. Truth be told, that worry had been in the front of his mind this whole time. It's not like she would lie about this, right? Hesitantly, the young male hooked his thumbs into the sides of his undies, pulling them down with his pants, exposing his, less than average, sized length. He glanced over at the table, taking note of what she wanted him to wear. The very image of him wearing all that seemed so... Wrong. Face still red, RAI stood in front of Lacey, waiting for her to tell him he could go. It was kinda funny to see RAI just stand in front of her nude and showing his cock. Lacey smiled as she just stared back." I'm open to you having sex with me if you so chose just to be fair. I would be charging like......$100 per hour, more if it involved Stamp;M type deals....."she teased to her charge, still squirming right in front of her." Go. Take the bath as I instructed and meet me in the kitchen when you're done, dressed in the gear that's on the table here."she finally says, letting RAI "go free." Entering the bath, RAI could see the room was appointed appropriately. Tiled floor, white walls, a combination shower/bathtub, a vanity full of makeup.......and the oddball enema & IV bags hanging from a stand one would see in a hospital, "falsies" one would push up a bra size or two, and several wigs on foam heads. Eyelets pop out of the ceiling at random intervals, one bedecked with cuffs. RAI was unable to remain still for long as she simply smiled back at him, taking in his nude form. Ask him about a week ago if he ever saw himself in this situation, he would have laughed... Now... Suddenly, she made the sex offer again, but before he could turn it down, she went ahead and told him it would be about a hundred dollars an hour. She appeared to be teasing him. "I-I wouldn't even have the money," he chuckled nervously. When she gave him the go-ahead, RAI about sprinted out of the room and back towards the bathroom. Entering the bathroom, RAI's eyes became the size of half-dollar coins. Medical equipment. Wigs. Chain. It was insane! The young male had very little time to sit and gawk at his surroundings. He turned on the water in the tub, setting down the clothes on the counter. Examining the clothes closely, he blushed. Just in appearance, he could tell that they would be a bit tight. And those shorts. He shuddered, climbing on into the tub. The warm water ran over his skin, washing away the short fright he just had. However, the objects in the room alongside him weren't helping him separate himself. Looking around, he blushed, only imagining what she has done in here. Shaking his head, he worked on washing his body and hair, giving himself a good scrub before draining the water and toweling his body off. Next was the hard part. Once he was dry, he pulled the sleeveless shirt over his head, working it down his body. Of course, the white shirt hugged his body tight enough to show off his curves. Next he pulled up the boy shorts, giving them a once-over. Sighing, he pulled them up his legs and onto his hips. There was an outline where the clothes were tight over his cock. The back wasn't much better and continuously kept slipping into the crack of his cheeks. Finally, the collar. Blushing madly now, he slid the nylon accessory around his neck, fastening it around the back. Now dressed, he looked at himself in the mirror. Would he really have to wear this?! It was about the same as being naked! His hands tried to cover his body to no avail as he left. Rai had seen the kitchen while in the living room, thankfully, and made his way there. The halls seemed to drag on for miles until he got to the door to the kitchen. Heaving another nervous sigh, he entered, not sure what to expect. Leia did not bother RAI as he bathed. It was shocking enough to have a FTA going nude around the house, he should have some moments of normalcy......well, aside from the weird things in the bathroom. Inside the kitchen, Lacey quietly made herself dinner, while a pizza box sat on the counter." Your meal is that pizza. Take it and go to the table in the living room." She herself had made a salad and kept an eye on RAI. He looked cute in the outfit, and dressed like a proper slave. She followed him to the couch, and that's where she barked out an order." Hold it slave....."she said,"Put the box in front of you, and sit down arms in your lap or between your legs facing the box." She took her spot to the side of RAI." You won't eat unless I give you permission......" She herself sat back with the salad in her hand, and took a bite." Open the box and pull the smallest piece out. Close the box and put it on the lid. That slice's cost......tell me why you need a place." RAI wasn't sure what he was expecting when he entered the kitchen, but he wasn't expecting to see Lacey sitting there with a salad and a pizza in front of her. It was about the most normal thing to have happened since he got there. Shrugging lightly, he took the pizza box and walked back into the living room, setting it down on the table. He was about to pull open the box when she sat down beside him. Just as he reached down, she barked an order, causing the young male to jump slightly and quickly pull his hands into his lap. Shyly, he looked up to Lacey as she began to eat her salad. At her order, he pulled out the smallest slice of the pizza, leaning back slightly in the couch." W-Well..." he began, "I told you I got kicked out of my old apartment after losing my previous job." RAI turned his gaze down at himself before continuing. "I used some of my stash to rent out a storage building... That's where I've been living the past two days. That's why I need a place to stay." ""Eat." Lacey said very bluntly, allowing RAI to eat and finish the slice. It gave her time to process the info and put out another question. It was kinda heartbreaking to hear his woes, but she wasn't quite ready to open her doors fully to someone unless she was convinced." Pull out several slices and place them on top again." She ate a few bites, eying RAI with a stern eye." How are you faring with the experience in my home so far? Be honest RAI."she asked, waiting for a response. With her permission, RAI took a bite of the pizza, enjoying eating something pretty good for once. He had just finished the piece when she told him to pull out a few more pieces and pulling them out and setting them on top. This whole thing seemed odd, but she was a dominatrix. This must have been what she was used to doing. For now, he would just need to go with it. Then she asked about how he was doing in her home to that point. Lightly, he bit his lip, not really wanting to answer that question. "To be honest..." he began hesitantly, "It... Sort of strange... I... I would never really wear this on normal basis... I-I don't like showing my body off... The bathroom kinda scared me a bit... However..." He sighed softly, looking down at himself. He adjusted the leg line of the boy shorts, trying to give himself a bit more comfort. "I am trying to keep an open mind to this like you suggested," he continued, not sure if what he gave her would be the best answer or not. It was an answer that Lacey took in with no response." Eat a slice."she bluntly said. She looked on waiting as RAI ate his slice and finished." I think you have a nice body RAI......it shouldn't be covered up with clothing. You need to embrace your wild side bit. And not knock yourself down." Stealing a slice, Lacey took a bite of the slice and looked back at RAI." One of my clients just canceled on me for tomorrow. So I'm in a bit of a bad mood. But....as the saying goes, make lemonade out of lemons...."she remarked out loud." I can allow you to stay an additional night......if you so wish to choose. Also, I have nothing planned for the daytime, so that could be open to...."other things" between us."she mentions, nonchalant." I would like to know my potential roommate better. And you get to know me better as well? How about it? Free room and board in exchange for.....tolerating sexual deviancy."she brazenly remarks to RAI. RAI was a bit surprised when she didn't say anything aside from telling him to eat another slice of the pizza before him. He quickly finished, and nearly coughed it back up at her comment. A powerful blush had taken control of his face as he looked away, hiding his body with his hands. "I-I really don't have a wild side..." he confessed, shifting uncomfortably. He did watch her take a slice of the pizza for herself and ate, continuing on. So, her tomorrow appointment cancelled on her? No wonder she seemed sort of pissed. It wasn't until he heard her next statement did he get worried." I-I'm sorry?" He stuttered out in shock. Was she really suggesting what he thought?! RAI shifted back in his seat, pushing distance between them. "What do you mean..." He gulped heavily, "Tolerating sexual deviancy?" Leaning over, Lacey reaches under the table and produces a box. Putting it onto the table, simply taped up and closed, she leans back into her chair and looks at RAI." Your stay for tomorrow will cost you.... This night is free though......"she says." The box is a little something for tonight that you might find....cute." Inside, the box, is a headband with cat ears, paws, and a thong with a cat tail." I figure pampering you would be something you want. As for tomorrow....." Reaching under the table, Lacey pulls out a sheet of paper and a pen. Sliding it to RAI, the wordsSLAVE Contracting bold stand out." Like I said, I like alternatives. Tomorrow, for your stay at night, you will serve me as a slave. This is merely symbolism, but I would like to know you more." Lacey states as she sits back." Sign it, and then put on the carboy outfit." RAI watched as Lacey pulled out a box and sat it before him. The 'cute' comment caused him to raise an eyebrow, but he took it and opened it nonetheless. Seeing what was inside, his face turned scarlet. "S-Seriously?!" he exclaimed suddenly, trying to take a moment to bring his voice back down, "I-I mean..." He had no time to finish, however, as she pulled out a contract, setting it down before him. Slave Contract?! His jaw dropped. Words hung tight in his throat as he tried to wrap his head around all of this. That's when she clarified for him. The term slave was symbolic. She did mention for him to be like a maid while he was here... Still... The carboy outfit? Sighing softly, he took the pen and, without truly reading the terms, wrote his signature at the bottom, handing it back to her. His mind was still on the outfit she wanted him to wear." S-So..." he began, picking up the box, "M-Mind if I... G-Go back into the k-kitchen to change?" This was impossible. All she had for him was practically a thong! Suddenly, he liked the tight clothing he was wearing now a lot more. Lacey took the contract and folded it up and put it into the drawer while she talked." I would rather see you put it on here......" Surprisingly, she took the thong and flung it in her hands." I don't think you'll need this. Put on the other items first. You can leave on your clothes until I say to strip." She noted that RAI looked cute in his "slave wear" already, so maybe she could toy with her "mouse" bit. RAI could only watch in shame as she flung the thong out from her fingers like a rubber band. At least she was giving him a chance to keep on what he was wearing for the time-being. Gulping loudly, the young male picked up the cat ears, sliding them on his head. It was like some childish cosplaying... In fact, that's probably what all this was to Lacey. Glancing at her out of the corner of his eye, he sighed. Next he stood, pulling the band the tail came with around his waist like a belt, fixing it into the exact place. Finally... The gloves. Those would be a pain. Like she said, they were the cute, large, kind with soft pads. Reluctantly, he slid the first one on, followed by the second with apparent difficulty. Now, he was left dressed in tight clothing, and cat accessories... He couldn't help but think that his new roommate was getting a kick out of this." Th-There," he turned, the tail bouncing behind him, "C-Could I just leave this all on? Please?" A little chuckle escaped Lacey's lips." You look freaking ADORABLE in that getup!! Maybe I should grab some superglue and start gluing that stuff permanently to your body...."she replied and joked." Remove the paws, but keep the ears on. You don't need the thong. Eat the rest of the pie RAI."recovering the paper from the drawer, Lacey stands and walks off, dropping her bowl in the sink and then into her room. After a few minutes, she comes back out, wearing a robe that while sheer, at least covers up her body and giving her some modesty." Come kitty, let's watch some TV...." When Lacey began to comment on how he looked, the glare that RAI gave would have been enough to kill a bear in its tracks. However, he sighed, taking the joke pretty well, and sat back down. The tail slipped under him, sticking out between his legs. "No glue okay?" he asked with a nervous laugh as he readjusted the tail behind him. As she walked off, the young male looked down at the paws, taking them both off and setting them back onto the table. He had been right. She did find that childish. A small laugh escaped him as he realized, by comparison, that was the most normal thing they have done. Now alone, he began to eat the rest of the pizza, taking his time. In fact, there was still about half of the pie left when Lacey came back... In a robe... At least she wasn't flashing her cock anymore. Taking another slice, he looked to his new roommate, nodding." O-Okay." he started shyly, "What do you want to watch?" Glancing at the table, he found the remote, switching on the television. Sitting next to RAI, Lacey quietly watched TV alongside, not being overtly overbearing. The TV goes on, and instantly, it shows a young man being fucked by a she male in a schoolgirl outfit. (Quickly grabbing the remote, Lacey fumbles and switches the channel to something more.....normal." Whoops, forgot about that."she chuckles nervously." Here ya go, choose whatever you want my dear." As she handed the remote back, her eyes quickly tried to assess whether the sleeping agent that was secretly injected into each pizza slice was working or not. RAI unconsciously scooted to the side when Lacey sat down next to him. He wasn't sure if she was actually being normal, or what. However, when the television was switched on, and revealed the porno video that she had been playing previously. Of course, the young male's face turned scarlet. Lacey was able to grab the remote in a hurry, switching it to the next thing she could find. However, the damage was still done. At least, she hadn't planned on the porno playing... At least... He hoped not. Joining her nervous laugh, he scratched the back of his head. Silently, he took the remote, flipping through the channels. "Dear?" he asked underneath his breath as he fought a yawn, "Nothing really on right now..." His switching of channels began to slow as his hand shook lightly. Eyes growing heavy, he began to feel exhausted. Carefully, he sat the remote down on the coffee table." I-I think I'll hit the hay..." Weakly, he stood, however, he fell straight back onto couch, holding his head, "I-I... M-Must be exhausted... I--I..." RAI's words fell short as his eyes fell shut, his head falling onto Lacey's shoulder. Like that, he was out. Smirking as RAI collapsed onto her, Lacey waited a few minutes before pinching him to see if he was really out. Once confirmed, she started her work.-----------------It was sometime before Lacey broke a small vial of smelling salts and held it to RAI's nose." Wakey wake slave."pulled out of the sleep, RAI would find himself nude, save for the cuffs on his wrists and ankles, and a collar around his neck. Restrained to a wooden chair, there is a hole on the chair seat that allows his ass to hang and poke through. The room is empty, barring a metal table and a huge mirror opposite of RAI and the table." You look cute nude, I'm going to have fun with you....." Lacey says as she sits on the table. The smelling salts had invaded RAI's nostrils, forcing him awake with a start. What had happened? First, he was watching television with Lacey, and then... Nothing. Immediately, he attempted to bring his hands up to hold his head, but the sudden pull of the cuffs stopped that. "What the?" With his vision clearing, he spotted Lacey in front of him, still dressed in her robe. At least she was still dressed. Looking down at himself, he was appalled. When had she stripped him?! Why was he chained up?! And why... Was his ass slipping through the chair? Was it broken or something? Looking to his new roommate for answers, he tried to speak. "F-Fun?!" he exclaimed, "What... What's going on here Lacey? I fell asleep or something earlier... Wait..." That's when it hit him, "D-Did you drug me?" Oh, great! This was suddenly becoming the setting of a horror film! In panic, RAI began to struggle, pulling tight against the chains. "You should calm down, it's not going to help to thrash around." Lacey toyed and scolded as she watched RAI struggle." The pizza was drugged. You ate a few slices, while I ate one slice. I took the antidote beforehand." Getting up, her hand traced across her bound slave's chest as she went behind him." You signed a contract, and now, I've claimed it. You are now my slave. It's a win-win; I get a slave, you have a place to stay, a meal, and clothing." She was careful not to stand by RAI too closely." It all depends on how obedient you'll be. It can be pleasurable.....or painful. Your choice." RAI's heart raced within his chest, threatening to burst from his chest. She drugged the pizza... Of course things weren't going to be normal between them. She was a dominatrix and he... Well... Apparently he was now his slave. "Contract?" he questioned, the drugs still in his system, "W-Wait that?" The sheet of paper he didn't read before signing... He might as well have sold away his soul. His face turned a bright shade of red when he felt Lacey's finger trail down his chest. Why was he blushing... Oh, right... He was stark-naked in front of a woman who had bound him. His fighting had ceased for a moment as he simply stared at her. The free room and board was appealing... "So..." he began hesitantly, "What all was on that contract? I want to know what I just signed in to." "If you had read the contract, you'd know what you're getting into, now would you?" Lacey teased as she caressed RAI's head." No backsides on it now. But, if you care, I have a friend that is systematically erasing your presence from a few key places. You were never born, nor held a job, or even were on a government or business database for anything. Of course, if you think having your credit history and debts erased is a good thing now....."walking in front, Lacey's cock flashed from behind the robe as she went and sat down in front of RAI on the floor, scooting close to his cock." Essentially, you never existed." She gripped the cock, and began to slowly stroke it, teasing it to become erect." Of course, wiping your identity away is meant to keep you subservient to me. Should you escape, a file will be sent out to those same databases that will ruin your life forever. And if you kill me......well, you're fucked." Stroking the cock, Lacey coos as it goes erect." Let's see how hard you get baby....." RAI's eyes went wide when she went on about her friend practically erasing him from existence. There was... "N-No way..." the young male's jaw went slack, "H-How?... Who do you know?..." Surely it had to be a joke. There was no way she could have done this. And all of it just to keep him there as her slave?! What sort of file did she have?! There were so many questions flowing through his mind that he didn't even notice her suddenly so close to him until he felt her hands stroking his small cock. Unwillingly, a small moan escaped his lips. Of course, his face turned even brighter, eyes sealing shut. Within her grip, he could feel his cock growing hard until it went to the full length of six inches. "Nice....and small. Fitting for a slave." Lacey cooed as her mouth went and licked the underside of the cock. A few big strokes with her tongue echoed the point home as she teased the cock and RAI." Lemme guess.....you were the bottom, being fucked by a bigger cock?"she teases as her mouth licked the tip of the cock, sucking and tongue ticking the pee hole." I can work with this...." RAI could only sit there in embarrassment as she toyed and played with his small cock, even making a comment about its size. Suddenly, his head was thrown back in a moan as she engulfed his member in her mouth. He could feel Lacey's tongue all across his small length, enticing small gasps from the young male. Weakly, he opened his eyes glaring at the woman teasing his member. "I-I never ah...." He attempted to speak through moans, "I don't like... Ah, guys. S-Stop... Please." His small cock throbbed lightly creating a small allow of pre at the tip. The comment of not liking guys didn't quite sit well with Lacey." So, you don't like cock, eh? Well, I'll be sure to make you think differently....." That however would be later as she mewled and kept licking and sucking the cock, teasing the bound RAI. With the precut, the licking turned exclusively to sucking as she took the entire 6-inch shaft and bobbed her head up and down the shaft. After a few minutes, she stopped sucking and used her thumb to tease the cock head." Howabout any sexual experience slave? Or is this your first time being sucked? " RAI moaned softly as she continued to suck and tease his cock. It suddenly hit him. Was she going to do what he thought?! Fear ran through his mind as the different situations ran through his mind. All of them were worse than the last. Suddenly, those thoughts were pushed from his mind as she sucked harder on his cock, milking more pre from his organ. When she pulled off, there was little more than air left in his body as she teased his head some more. At the question, the young male ignored her question, begging even more. "P-Please stop," he sobbed out, "J-Just let me go... Please..." Even though he didn't give an answer, the blush, the amount of pre leaking, and his silence to her question. It all would have told her that he was a virgin. Lacey ignored the pleas of RAI as she continued to suck the cock, trying to get her slave to cum his first blow job load. She could feel his cock going harder and shuddering, and the moans from her slave going even more labored and harder, and the precut was coming much. Stopping the sucking, she stroked the cock in her hand, her face next to the cock." I'll let you go.....once you learn to be subservient and like to be fucked by cock......" RAI's breathing grew heavy and tight as she continued to suck and tease his cock. The tip throbbed, oozing more of his pre-cum out into her mouth. He was so close to coming, but would not allow himself to fall for such humiliation. Thankfully, she finally pulled off. "What?!" the captive male exclaimed, moaning as his cock was throbbed, "Which the hell would I do that?! J-Just let me go! F-Fuck you!" Despite his attempts to fight caving in, RAI had to bite his lip to halt the progress of another moan. The sucking, combined with her hand, was bringing him close to the edge. In fact... Groaning, his small cock throbbed in her hand, spraying out his backed-up load of virgin cum across her hand and face. As the cum flowed, Lacey reveled in the spray. As the cock unloaded it's last, she began to wipe and lick the cum." Beautiful......but needs work..."she said, with each drop being consumed by her. She wiped her hand with the cum against RAI's chest, as a sign of dominance on the boy. She had made him cum, and she tagged him with the shame." This opens up a wide range of possibilities Slave......only thing is, what shall I do with you......" Moving to RAI's face, Lacey shoves her cock into his lips." Let's have a test......open your mouth and suck it slave. Bite me, and you'll live to regret it......suck it, and you'll be rewarded...." RAI panted heavily, looking down as Lacey began to lap up his cum, swallowing it. If he hadn't been scared out of his mind, he would have admitted that looked sexy. Suddenly, she stood and wiped some of his cum on his chest, practically marking him with his own seed. The trapped male looked away, still blushing madly. How could she do this to him?! What had he done? Looking up, his eyes went wide as her cock was thrust between his lips. The thick, horrible, member was already locked inside his mouth. In rebellion, he looked up to his captor, glaring at her. A test? Hell no! He wasn't going to suck it. He didn't care what punishment she had in mind, there was no way he would allow her to degrade him any further. What could she do? He didn't exist any more according to her. Grinning around her cock, he took a bit more past the head in before biting down. It wasn't too hard, but enough for this dominatrix to get the point.

The Roommate (Kiva10 x Hybridhalf)|rating:2.0

Dragon Slayer [Character Thread]

(gods are nesting... Raven City (• Mission Board (• IOC (Dragon SlayersPharon Drawling (#msg16147073) - Darkness - JuggtacularSashiko Minute (#msg16147078) - Darkness - FoxgirlJayPoppy Clover grove (#msg16147544) - Wood - Began BooDekado Donovan (#msg16147591) - Light - BowenOlena Storm seed (#msg16149168) - Water - Lady SakuraDestrian Brand (#msg16149670) - Fire - TheBlackThroneApproved Handlers Reese Wilder (#msg16147118) - Handler(3) - Wired RabbitDestrian BrandDekado KonovarOlena StormseedBrett Roman(#msg16149669) - Handler(3) -TheBlackThronePoppy ClovergroveSashiko MirumePharon DraeligInactive Players/Characters Jin Might(#msg16150033) - Beast -SenatorTachibana Sakura(#msg16150035) - Handler -Senator Brook Harrell(#msg16148121) - Handler -Lynnette (Sharon DraeligAlias: ShatterscaleDragon Type: Darkness (Void)Apparent Age: Mid-20'shaft: 8'0Weight: 600lbs (Variable)Hair Color: Black/Shaved Eye Color: Purple Sexuality: Heterosexual Basic Description: Sharon is a Goliath-Human Hybrid, and his mixed-blood means he looks like an impossibly tall human with ashen skin and the traditional tribal markings of his people. Sharon is a mountain of a man, standing eight feet tall, tipping the scales at a whopping six-hundred pounds, and being as muscular as he is vertical. He has purplish-black star-shaped scales on his joints (knees, elbows, wrists, etc...), as well as a light pattern around his eyes. His scales cover his chin like a goatee, and he also sports a very noticeable patch of purple completely surrounding his neck. His eyes are a vivid, almost glowing variation of his scales, and turn slotted when his emotions run high. He has several distinct and noticeable scars from the dragon he killed to gain his powers. He usually wore light, breezy clothing like furs or tribal wear, and added armor plating along the joints and uncovered sections of skin to make a breathable, mobile armor. On Earth, he will keep his gear from Anastasia, but if necessary will dress like a blue-collar worker. Jeans, boots, t-shirts, and button-ups. Personality: Sharon is as animated as he is large. People assume his size comes with stoicism to match, but they'd be mistaken, as he is big, loud and very boisterous. He keeps a surprisingly upbeat outlook on life, and tends to be the guy you can vent to and lay your head on his shoulder for a good cry (seriously there's plenty of room). He holds honor and respect in the highest regard and will treat people differently depending on how he sees them treating others. Furthermore, he abhors weakness of all kinds, though not weakness itself, but the act of choosing to remain weak by not trying to overcome your struggles or issues. Backstory: Sharon was big and strong from birth, as his mother Eudora was a Goliath, and his father, known as "OSHA the Giant" because of his enormous size, was the Chieftain of an infamous clan of Hunters and Warriors in the south known as the "Mo'SAI". Exiled from her own clan for showing weakness, Eudora was found by a Mo'SAI hunting party led by OSHA. She was tired, weak, hungry, and delirious after the violent exile from her tribe...but still had enough strength to beat every member of the party unconscious in a berserk rage before OSHA took her down. When she woke up, she was bound, the others were licking their wounds, and OSHA was staring at her. He'd never seen anyone so beautiful, so powerful. It was love at first sight. The two became a couple very fast, with OSHA taking Eudora as his first and only wife and producing Sharon a few years later. It was obvious the boy took after both his parents and when he was young he accidentally broke his friend's arm because he pulled him to play with him. They took his training incredibly seriously from that point so he didn't kill someone, and young Sharon spent much of his waking hours learning to fight, how to lift, or how to throw a punch, all so he would become a great warrior...and also so no one in their village fell victim to his might. It made Sharon's childhood lonely, and he began hanging out with the adults as he couldn't hurt them as easily. He learned swear words and got to tag along on hunts and got snuck beer and essentially became the mascot of the adults in the village who loved his enthusiasm when they had so little of it, and he had no one else to play with. When he became of age, Sharon was the clear favorite to become the next "Head Warrior" of the tribe after completing the Trial of the Mo'SAI, which was a ritual that proved the person undertaking it was a full-fledged adult within the Mo'SAI Clan. The challenge was different for each person, and Sharon's was to bring back the mightiest beast he could find. He searched for weeks and found nothing but normal creatures. Lions, Wolves, Bears, Mystical Creatures, etc... None of them were impressive enough in his mind to bring back and claim his honor. He was awoken from his slumber one night by a loud, high-pitched droning sound that he couldn't explain. Investigating the sound, he discovered a dragon with black and purple scales sleeping in a cave. The human in him was cautious, but the Goliath in his blood burned with rage and excitement at seeing such a powerful, worthy adversary. He attacked before he realized what he was doing, and spent the next several hours fighting for his life. A combination of skills, strength, and perseverance allowed him to wound the dragon and survive long enough for it to use its breath weapon on him. He dodged, and the attack shook the roof of the cave, dropping a large stalactite on the creature and pinning it to the ground long enough for him to lop its head off with his axe. It had been a Darkness Dragon with the power of gravity, and after slaying it, he wasted no time eating its heart. Then he slept. When he awoke, the gouges in his flesh and his broken bones had been healed, leaving scars but nothing else behind. He could feel the change in him as well as see it and used his newfound power to smash his way out of the cave. When he returned to his tribe pulling a dragon carcass on a makeshift sled, with its head perched on its back for all to see, cheers rang out for miles. He'd completed his Trial and was now a man, and with his prey being a dragon of all things, it was only a matter of time before he was made Head Warrior. He never got the opportunity, however, as word spread from village to village, eventually finding its way to the Imperial Capital and the ears of the King. The Knight's arrival nearly caused a war to break out as the Mo'SAI felt they wanted to steal Sharon, but he wisely chose to leave willingly to keep his people safe. His one condition for joining the Dragon Slayers was that the King send supplies and aid his people would no longer get with him out of the picture for the foreseeable future. As a Slayer, he was dedicated to the cause and constantly sought out dragons to fight. One of his most difficult fights was against an Elder Metal Dragon. The fight lasted for days, and those who stayed around to watch saw Sharon's mighty blows cracking and chipping away at the beast's armor. Then they saw the first silvery, shimmery mist explode from his body under one of Sharon's strikes, and then another, and another. Eventually, every hit would result in a silvery shower of glittering dust, and when the dragon lay dead, they realized the powder was the remains of his scales, as there were many spots on his corpse where his scales had been obliterated completely or cut clean away from the flesh underneath. From that day forth, he became known as "Shatter scale" among the people. Crest Location: His entire right pectoral and upper right arm.(Picture a tribal style)Dragon Arm: Sharon's Dragon Arm, named "Weeping Dark" (is in the shape of a Maul. A massive pole topped with a metal head that is half axe, half hammer. A switch reconfigures the style of the weapon, so the axe is on one end and the hammer on the other, making it an abomination of pain only he can properly wield. Dragon Arm Ability: Sharon's Dragon Arm can manipulate its personal gravity, making it incredibly light or incredibly heavy and allowing him to choose between speed and power with each strike. Dragon Mode: Person's Dragon Mode (is incredibly humanoid. He grows taller and more muscular while taking on the form of a Dragoon. Aside from remaining bipedal, all of his normal traits are dignified. His legs become digitigrade, he sprouts a tail and wings. His face becomes more akin to a snout, and he grows claws and fangs as well as scales across the entirety of his body, giving him the appearance of being covered in dark, metallic armor. His strength is particularly heightened during Dragon Mode. Dragon Magic: Super Strength★: Sharon's blows possess phenomenal momentum, force, and kinetic energy as he increases their power by manipulating gravity around himself. He makes himself heavier to boost the strength of his hits, and he can also make objects around him lighter to make them easier to move and manipulate. Crush Cannon: Sharon gathers gravitons and compresses them into the shape of a glowing blackish orb. They pulverize whatever they hit like cannonballs as they are essentially balls of super dense magic. Eton Blade: Sharon concentrates a high amount of granitic energy around his blade, enveloping it in a pitch-black aura. When swung, anything hit by Weeping Dark will experience a devastating kinetic explosion upon impact along the length of the blade or the head of the hammer, like a gravity bomb going off in a concentrated area. This also increases the cutting/striking power of his weapon. Repulsion: Sharon suddenly, and violently shifts gravity outward in a ten-foot sphere around his body. This gravity wave inverts everything that it comes in contact with and sends it flying away from his person as it acts upon anything in his vicinity. While it does cause pain from the impact and the landing, its primary use is crowd control. Strengths:Hunter: Sharon grew up as a Hunter in a tribe of Hunters. He knows everything there is to know about it from tracking, to trap-making, animal behavior, finding signs in nature, as well as bushcraft and whatever else you think a hunter should know. There is no one better to be with in the "Great Outdoors" than him. Gentle Giant: While he's probably the biggest person you've ever seen, and can smash a boulder into powder, Sharon is such a nice guy it doesn't make sense. He always has a smile on his face, and has an infectious personality that can brighten up your day just by being around him. He also cares deeply for the people around him and won't hesitate to tell a person they can vent or cry or whatever else they need him for. Chef's Kiss: Growing up in a hunting village meant Sharon had to learn to cook at an early age. Turns out he's damn good at it, and it wasn't surprising at all to see him among the cooking circles working his magic when the village feasted. One of the things his tribesmen hated most when he left was losing access to his food. Warrior: The son of a Village Chieftain and a Goliath Barbarian? Sharon was practically born to fight, and people like to say he popped up with a hammer in his hand. His massive strength meant his parents had to train him hard from a very young age, and as a result, he is incredibly skilled in hand-to-hand combat, as well as the use of melee and ranged weapons. Bulwark: Sharon knows how big he is, how tough, how strong. He's known since a child, and he has always taken his size seriously. His natural instinct to help and protect means he will unflinchingly jump in front of something dangerous for a teammate or an innocent because he knows he has a better chance of walking away than they do. It can obviously be seen as a weakness, but he chooses to recognize it as his strength. Weaknesses: Enhanced Senses: Ever since his transformation, Sharon has found his senses altered and heightened a great deal. Particularly his sense of smell and sight have been enhanced to the point that strong enough scents and powerful enough visual stimulants (bright light, flashing lights, etc...) can negatively effect him. Hunger: He was always a big boy and needed a lot of food to function, but now he eats like a literal dragon and has finished off two entire suckling pigs by himself before. Watching Sharon eat is truly fascinating as even with his size, the amount of food he puts away doesn't make sense. People joke that since he uses gravity magic, his stomach is just a black hole...they might be right. Lack of Modesty: The Mo'SAI are not a simple people, but they live simple lives on the Southern Plains, Jungles, and Deserts. They don't have time for things like modesty when they're worrying about shelter, food, etc... Back home it wasn't surprising to see a woman with her breasts out, or a man hanging out of his skirt. Their behavior can be compared to that of a nude beach on Earth, with casual nudity being accepted and only brought up sexually between people in such a situation. As a result, Sharon has no concept of modesty whatsoever and often wears very little clothing because he is so used to his tribal attire and the heat of the South making a lot of clothes uncomfortable and unnecessary. Personal Space: Similar to the modesty situation, growing up in a place where everyone always cooperated with everyone else, and physical contact in many forms was seen as a term of endearment, friendship, and closeness. This means Sharon has a habit of touching people when he talks to them. A pat on the back, hand on the shoulder, hugs, etc... He is a very personable individual, and he shows his care through touch a lot of the time. It doesn't really occur to him people might not like that as it's as natural as breathing on his end. Berserker Rage: The Goliath race all possess a fire in their blood that can manifest itself as a berserk rage when they are particularly emotional, or injured. While not as strong as a pureblood, Sharon has the rage within him as well, and can fall victim to it in the right (or wrong) circumstances. And even in normal situations, his Goliath blood makes him more prone to impulsive and hot-headed actions unless it comes to hunting itself where he knows his patience is key. On/Offs: On's - Vanilla Sex, Rough Sex, Role Play, Light-BDSM, Foreplay, Oral, Anal, Group Sex, Public Sex, Multiple Partners Off's - Gore, More, Scat, Watersports, Blood play, The Nasty Stuff, Etc... (MirumeAlias:ShadowwingDragon Type:Darkness Apparent Age:25Height:6'0Weight:150Hair Color:Purple Eye Color:Blue Sexuality:Bisexual Basic Description:Going primarily off the reference picture. Tall, pale skin, long purple hair. Some scaling near her jawline, the sides of her head and at her neck and collarbone. Big ol' fox girl ears. Full, curvy figure with particularly well-endowed breasts. Personality:Cautious, cunning and careful when it comes to work and business. It's rare to find downtime in her work anyway, so she really takes the time to unwind and relax, either cutting loose or getting lazy, whenever she can. Varies between party animal, or shut-in Backstory:Once long ago, she was a woodland hunter, keeping safe the village she grew up in. One night, she came across a new quarry, where the woods gave way to murky swamps and deep bogs. Spying a young black dragon, making its home in the territory that she had sworn to protect. For weeks, it was a game of cat and mouse, stalking one another, two cunning hunters, hunting each other. Ambush predators, neither so brazen as so attack the other head on, the game seeming set to go on for much, much longer. All it took was one missed step, a bear trap clamped down on a scaled foot and biting deep to the bone. It took many arrows beyond that point, until finally enough had made it past the dragons acidic, shadowy breath and in to it's head and heart, that finally the trapped and raging beast died. Even a backwater village hunter such as herself knew the power such a beast's heart held, and consumed it to claim its strength for herself. She developed her power for but a few weeks, before the King's forces came knocking, in search of her, not-so-subtly suggesting that she join the other Slayers in the King's Service. Feeling left with little say in the matter, Sashimi left her home village, to join with the other Dragon Slayers. Despite her change of armament and her immensely empowered body, she used the shadow dragons' heart to enhance what she knew best. Ambushes, dirty fighting and sudden kills. Her title of Shadowing was granted upon one particular kill, a team battling a mighty dragon, when Sashimi swooped down from on high, and decapitated the beast while it was distracted. Crest Location:On her back, spread between shoulders and lower-back. Dragon Arm:A single-edged curved colossal great sword. The weapon has a dark blade, that seeps with black magic when it's unsheathed. Dragon Arm Ability:Leaves shadowy energy behind where it cuts that eats away at flesh and other materials. Dragon Mode:Taking on a form that is almost wholly that of a dragon, keeping her same size, but adopting a more quadrupedal stature. Scales like blackened plate armor cover her whole body, even enough to hide her fox-like ears and tail. Enhances all of her abilities a little, but her speed in particular is greatly improved. Dragon Magic:Super speed★: Exceptionally fast, enough so to seem as though she's teleporting short distances. Shadow cloud: Suffuse a large area with black foggy clouds, hindering sight, or even blinding in some thick areas, of those not attuned to shadows. Marked for Death: A prey that she can see is chosen, and will find it hard to escape her chase even long after the fast. She can sense where her marked prey is, unless she is blinded or the prey is hidden by magical means. Darkbolt: Rather than using a bow now, she calls upon the magic of the shadow dragon to fling bolts and balls of black magic. Strengths:Patient, collected under fire. Confidant in her abilities. Cunning and intelligent. Weaknesses:Intense light and sounds vary from bothering her to causing pain. Weak to tail-pulling. Might be too slow to act through over-thinking. On/Offs: (Reese Wilder Age: 27Height: 135 lbs Weight: 5'4"Hair Color: Platinum Blonde (Bleached)Eye Color: Grey Sexuality: Lesbian Basic Description: Reese is short, cute and pear-shaped. She has a round face, angular jaw and stark blonde hair that is definitely fake, but she loves it all the same. She has a silver nose ring in her left nostril, and many more dainty piercings in her ears. Reese likes shiny jewelry and glittery makeup, but generally opts to pair her statement glam with lighter, casual, tomboy-like clothing. Think baggy jeans, dingy sneakers, thrifted baseball t-shirts and basic crop tops. Her accessories (not her clothes) are what she spends her limited cash on, especially her bodacious, golden locks. Personality: Spunky, imaginative, and quick, Reese spends a lot of her time thinking about how things work. People like her because she always gets the job done, albeit in different, occasionally 'destructive' ways (especially if one thing needs the parts from a second thing). She can be Scrapy and determined, and tries her best to be 'one of the guys' (especially since she sleeps with women). Those who really get to know Reese and how smart she really is often say that she lacks ambition, but she likes fixing cars and bikes, and she's really fucking great at it. Backstory: Reese always wanted to be a pilot. Commercial airlines, private jet company, or maybe even in the Air Force if she was lucky. The type of plane didn't really matter to Reese as long as it went fast and flew high in the goddamn beautiful sky. Reese comes from a big, loud family. All small-town dairy farmers, nothing particularly special. So maybe flying, and all of its complicated aerodynamics, was her way of getting out. Reese did well in school (no surprise) and was accepted into a renowned pilot school pretty quickly. All of her introductory training and certifications were completed with flying colors (get it?) until she got to the actual flight training lessons. You know, the flights where obstacles and errors are presented, and the newest students have to solve them. 'Personality Differences'. That's what her instructors had insisted when they told her she wasn't cut out to fly planes and to resign from the program. It was professional talk for 'dangerous' and 'irresponsible'. Reese thought her actions in the cockpit were clever and out of the box solutions. Her instructors thought she was putting everyone aboard at risk for not looking at the big picture, and for not listening to their old ways of doing things. It sucks when a dream dies, but it sucks even more when you have to tell your big, loud family back home. So Reese didn't go back home. She told her family what happened of course, the whole disheartening truth, but she refused to be a small-town girl anymore. She had made it out. Furthermore, she wasn't going back. There was an ad for a mechanic's apprentice a few hours away in Raven City. She figured if she couldn't work with planes, she could at least stay in the transportation field. Besides, people like when mechanics fix things with creative solutions, especially if things get done quick and with a smile. Reese now has lived in Raven City for the past six years. In the first four she completed her apprenticeship and auto repair certifications. In the last two, she found a modest paying job as a full-time mechanic at Rust and Ruckus, a local but popular auto-body garage. She might be young and dreamy, but she comes highly recommended. Strengths:Intellect - Reese is smart. Like bananas level of smart, especially when it comes to technology, engineering or mechanical things. Problem Solver - If you need a creative solution, Reese is your gal. You can count on her to come up with a plan for just about anything. Supportive - Reese wants to help others, even if they don't know it yet. She's always ready to quietly assist, rather than steal the spotlight. Cool - Most people like Reese. She doesn't cause drama, she doesn't lie, and she doesn't try too hard. She's usually a chill person to be around. Weaknesses:Brawn - Reese is a nerd. She knows how many weapons work, but she has zero clue on how to use one, let alone throw a punch. Listening - Reese is pretty positive she's got the best ideas, even if they are alternative and costly and not at all what was asked for. Hyper-focused - When Reese has an idea, no matter how impractical or dangerous, she has trouble letting it go, even if it's clearly not working. Late Bloomer - Romance and Reese are new to each other. She definitely likes girls, but she's still learning and experimenting for herself. Ons: Romance, touch, compliments, fingering, licking, massages, exploring, spontaneous anything. Offs: Non-consensual anything, choking, slapping, spanking. If you want to make a move on Reese, just PM me first, she's pretty open! Poppy Clover grove(ClovergroveAlias:VinespinnerDragon Type:Wood Apparent Age:22Height:4’11Weight:115Hair Color:Ginger locks with streaks of pale blonde Eye Color:Emerald Sexuality:Demisexual Basic Description:With her short and petite stature Poppy doesn’t appear imposing, her face features making her appear soft. Tapered ears poke out through her wild mane of ginger and blonde, freckles in patches across the bridge of her nose and shoulders. Often seen barefoot Poppy connects most with nature and as a result her eyes tend to shimmer with flecks of gold when she is surrounded by greenery, her skin nearly glowing when in the sunshine and fresh air. Being a faerie Poppy is most in tune with nature and as such uses the terrain itself to cloth herself, often seen in a leafy garment adorn with flowers and lines, forming a short dress that allows her freedom to move. Personality:Impulsive and hardly serious Poppy is fascinated by the world around her, perhaps far too outgoing for her own good. Curious to a fault she will not think before rushing forward with whatever matter presented, in the mind set of ‘oh this’ll work itself out’. She is however very sweet and will take the time to get close to others as despite her kind, she is highly affectionate and has no qualms latching onto others without notice. The discovery of sweets of a kind far from the honey suckles of her grove has caused an obsession with the faerie, easily distracted with the promise of gift of a sweet of any sort. Backstory:Life within the hidden grove of the FAE was one of diligence and duty for those not seen, the silent weavers of nature and protectors of the Earth. A life in which Poppy grew woefully disillusioned to unlike her fellow kind who preferred to keep their distance from other species who did not follow mother earth’s ancient teachings. The dubbed ‘slacker’ Poppy shirked her sacred duties in light of bathing in the sunlight and play, a trait that became more noticed as her lack of faerie wings unlike her brethren was punishment for her lack of seriousness. In her mind she felt there was more to life than simply carrying out the same chores and duties like that of the elders, not content in following the same paths despite the insistence she does so as the eldest daughter of her small clan within the community. In line to be betrothed despite her lack of wings Poppy found the force of marriage a final straw that broke what disillusion she clan wished to fit her within, unable to withstand the immense pressure as she fled in the dead of night leaving behind only a wilted flower in her nest. The grove in which her clan had called home for eons held a barrier in which most could not break the spell of illusion, yet on the night of her departure Poppy found the barrier having been broken, their homes exposed and now in the direct gaze of a fearsome dragon as massive of the very mountains themselves. Before any alarm could be given the village was engulfed in a cloud of fiery smoke and smolder, the devastation causing the very ground itself to weep as FAE young and old were turned to ash before Poppy’s very eyes. Stunned and unable to move Poppy found cover in a nearby trunk as the cries of her brethren rang out, the normally docile and ‘slacker’ feeling her blood run cold as the devastation continued. Warriors attempted to combat the mighty dragon but to no avail, the village burning down around her feet as Poppy unconsciously found herself stepping forward with a bitter hatred fueling the innate rage that perhaps always was a part of herself. She had long wished to rid herself of her once mundane village, but the destruction and meaningless death called her to action in a way that she had never known. Scooping up a fallen weapon in fury Poppy found the whip itself coming alive in her hands, growing several yards long as though it became in tune with her aching rage. Even now she can’t recall just how it came to be or even how she found herself capable of such, the moment a blur as the faerie struck blow after blow across the dragon’s face and neck, watching as the once flimsy vine seeming to split even the dragon scales themselves. Yet with every blow she found the dragon attempting to retreat as it trashed in agony, Poppy seeing red as her once distanced attacks became closer and closer. Only after the dragon took a knee did Poppy find her chance, a looming nest overhead allowing the faerie to lasso the whip around the creatures neck, the thorns becoming like teeth as they sawed along with her weight pulling backwards. It was exhausting work as Poppy continued to thrash and pull, leashing the dragon to it’s spot as it writhed and roared enough to make the very ground shake. Poppy wasn’t sure how much time passed before she found the whip finally becoming slack, the dragon’s head lowering as it gave its last death rattle, its once earthy color becoming muddy and ashen until finally it moved no more. Tears steamed freely from the faerie’s eyes as she collapsed against the tree exhausted and heartbroken, the village deathly quiet as she sobbed. In the haze of the burned and destroyed village was a gentle whisper, a whisper Poppy knew all too well as the very spirit of Anastasia spoke to her. She would be a protector, having meant for so much more than her village...the instructions barbaric, but simple. Consume the dragon’s heart. Delirium and sadness compelled the young faerie to do just that, using the vine she had used to take down the beast to make work of sawing the torso with grim results. Time meant nothing to Poppy as by the time she managed to break through the scales and rib cage, she was rewarded with the still heart nearly as large as herself. Greedily she consumed the irony meat as her face rivaled her fiery hair, the first swallow filling her with immense power unlike she would ever know. The whisper pushed Poppy forward to seek out fellow slayers as they were known, a group of those who had done such a feat like herself, in order to protect others from such a fate. It became Poppy’s new call to life, and with a heavy heart she left the remains of her village to serve the king and become a dragon slayer. Crest Location:Hollow of throat Dragon Arm:(Arm Ability:The whip itself can be used to send Poppy sailing between tree branches or other areas she can successfully wrap around, the thorns on such carrying a toxin that if cut by can cause numbness and if left untreated can become gangrene. Poppy herself is immune to such as she often uses the weapon defensively to evade escape and gain the higher ground. Dragon Mode:When in dragon mode Poppy’s entire being becomes a flower, her limbs leaves with thick thorns along the back of her calves and forearms. In this form she is able to take flight unlike her previous state, with her speed greatly enhanced because of such. The thorns she bears are covered in a highly toxic poison, her sight more akin to a bug allowing her to see targets in greater depth and area. Dragon Magic:★Regeneration- Although extreme heat or cold can greatly affect Poppy, outright limb attacks or lobbing of limbs is not as much of a concern. Like splicing together a bud to a new stem, she can reattach body parts with a short cool down period, or outright grow back and heal so long as her head remains intact. So long as she has a strand left, she will recover from wounds no matter how serious. The more serious the longer it takes, a normal cut usually healing after a few seconds. Petal dance-In her dragon form Poppy is able to take to flight, like a delicate petal in the wind, her agility unmatched when airborne. Despite her small stature she is able to carry various loads even while in the air, sending comrades into dizzying dives right at a target with careful aim. With this advantage Poppy can cause disorientation to an enemy with her constant fluttering and buzzing around their head, often deploying combo attacks while evading with ease. Wood manipulation Depending on the size Poppy can have the terrain aide her attacks, using tree branches to snag or trap a target, or vines to hold one captive. With the boost of her own kinship to nature itself, what she manipulates takes on stronger properties as a result, vines more like iron than fleshy greenery as even grass can take on a sharpened edge if she so desires. Allergy bombs-Releasing a cloud of pollen can render a target temporarily blind by the cloud, Poppy able to use what is around her. If she is to find herself near a particularly nasty plant, or poisonous one, the cloud therefore could be used to poison a target, but she is unable to outright create said plant at will yet. Strengths:Sweet like honey-One of Poppy’s best assets is her sweet nature that allows her to befriend a majority of those she comes in contact with, the bubbly faerie easily smiling and so damned curious it’s difficult to be upset at her. Although not impossible. She yearns to learn as much as possible of those around her, so she is allowing asking questions and wants to be as helpful as she can go everyday things. It may not always be that helpful, but she tries so hard to please. Light on her feet-Almost never seen sitting still, Poppy is always skipping around or dancing with an air of grace to her. At times, it appears she is nearly floating, although more keen eyes can see outdoors she will often encourage the grass beneath her feet to grow a few inches; totally not because she doesn’t feel comfortable being surrounded by taller folks. Every movement she makes is like the gentle billow of leaves in the wind, often on her tip toes as she streaks across the ground with a giddy giggle in her agility. Formidable memory-With most faeries they are said to be the vaults of the forests, often tricking poor souls of their names and in return ‘stealing’ all their knowledge. Now while Poppy doesn’t condone such, she does however possess a great memory for all that she has seen or learns of, often times only having to see an action once or twice before picking it up easily. Human traditions and such are far easier to pick up she’s found, and will often recite such in its technical phrasing than the slang or modern term, giving away one of her favorite pastimes which is reading books in the trees. The concept of ‘stealing’ is still fairly uncertain though, as the habit of hoarding such books will become a problem as she’s a menace to the library for that fact alone. Green thumb-With the heart of Earth consumed Poppy’s prowess of all things green has only grown, often able to create blooming fields of flowers and greenery with a wave of a hand. Anything she touches will grow more as she can even bring back dead blooms, making them all the more hearty and plentiful. Farming in particular is something she adores as poor little gardens may find themselves nearly overgrown with her helping hand. Weaknesses: Wilting-Enhanced only further by her dragon power Poppy has a difficult time to rapidly changing temperatures, the cold often reducing her power and will Curiosity her appear to shrink more as a result. If she becomes too cold she will become sluggish and unresponsive, as though her body is going into hibernation like the flowers she loves so much. On the opposite end extreme heat can actually do damage to her as heat blasts and waves make her wilt, leaving her dazed and can singe the blooms that cover her. Without a source of shade or water she will continue to wilt until she is near death, a fate she faced only one time before and is adamant to never happen again. Curiosity will clip the bud-With a whole new world to explore Poppy is almost obsessed to learn as much as she can, even if she can’t see the inherent danger in such at first glance. Trusting to a fault it would be far too easy to have her led astray by those with not so great intentions, the people pleaser not one to question a person especially if they are a charmer or quite confident. Flowers for you, and you, and you-When Poppy gets too excited or even nervous she tends to create wild patches of flowers that burst forth and cover every inch of space around herself. Being barefoot most of the time it isn’t uncommon to find little daises where she walks, leaving a trail behind her if she’s in a particularly playful mood. While when Poppy is nervous or feeling emotionally hurt the flowers will instead turn into writhing vines of ivy, climbing up her legs and swishing around like an agitated cat’s tail. On/Offs:Began’s buttons (#msg11665698) (KonovarAlias:the Damned Dragon Type:Light Apparent Age:Mid-20'shaft:6'2"Weight:225 Lbs Hair Color:Blonde Eye Color:Sea Green Sexuality:HeteroBasic Description:Dead stands tall and straight, carrying himself gracefully, with the animal ease of a weathered warrior. His hair is almost shinning gold, his fair and young. Normally he is of thoughtful expression but when he gives one of his rare smiles, it's like the sun comes out. Bright green eyes and a clear voice that easily carries when he sings. Beyond the dragon mark over his heart he has not tattooed his skin. Also after he killed Asia and absorbed some of her power, the faint scars he had had now disappeared. The scales that he has in his even form appear mostly centered in the void space of his tattoo and some on each shoulder. Personality:A general rundown of this character's personality. I know the character will develop further in the story. Backstory:When the golden dragon Asia (upon the Elves of Capella-Bionin and all but wiped out their nation within a few months. The few survivors couldn't flee as their borders were surrounded by the orcs to the south, trolls to the north and east and ogres to the west. In desperation, they used their magics and tunneled into the earth to regroup. The great nation of seven duchies was reduced to a medium-sized city in a blink of an eye. While over then next centuries people all but forgot Capella-Bionin the struggled and thrived in their new environment. For over a millennium they lived in the underground caves like dwarves. Their golden skin grew pale, their luxurious raven hair turned snow-white. A plan was formed after the logistics of survival were dealt with. They had to take back what was theirs, reclaim their homeland. A knighthood was formed, the Empyrean Order. The greatest and most noble warriors working together, taking on squires and keeping all the martial magic of their nation alive. After a thousand years they felt they had the numbers to do so. It was actually around eight hundred and seventy-three years, but there is meaning in names and numbers. So they took that extra time to train the next generation of young lings and cross the t's and dot the i's in their plans. To make a long story slightly shorter...they failed miserably and died. Another fighting had been formed at the same time, they were made up of criminals and soldiers of lowly backgrounds. There were other races in this eternal underdark. While the cream of even nobility trained to slay the dragon there were more mundane and less noble duties to attend to. The group wasn't given any wonderful name. Some people called the Guard. Most viewed them as assassins or a necessary evil. They kept back the other races from taking New Capella and ending the elves of this region. There were consequences for attacking a dragon and failing. The dragon had been injured but wasn't stupid. It offered some of the even lands to whichever faction found and destroyed the elves that attacked her. Troll, orc and ogres came in waves, thankfully they were staggered. It was the hated Guard that saved the city during those decades. When the cost of attacking the elves grew too steep after nearly sixty years the Guard were given some esteem, they were now the Midnight Sons. Dekado was one of these Midnight Sons. His whole life was about fighting foes that were bigger, stronger and tougher...add in some of them regenerated from near death, and it just seemed endless. One evening fate would look down on him and make his life interesting. Fuck you fate. The seven duchies were reduced to the seven noble houses of New Capella and their sons and daughters were automatically enrolled in the Empyrean Order, the finest fighters who ever lived. Too bad their kids were jerks. When Del win of House Fiona was slumming with his fellow Empyrean Order in the low quarter, most gave them deference and endured their sloppy drunken lechery. Until they came across Dead. He had lost friends tonight and wasn't in the mood. Everyone else was understanding that their parents had made the ultimate sacrifice in trying to slay the dragon, Dead was dealing with the blowback that came every night. When Del win made a pass at him angry words were exchanged. Dead didn't favor males, but that had nothing to do with it. Del win was a mean drunk and an ass. The thing is, even when Del win issued the challenge to a formal duel, you can't accept. Not when he is a drunk Empyrean and you are a Guard. Dead did accept though. He gave Del win three cycles to sober up and get his affairs in order. By rights anything belonging to the loser would go to the winner at the end of the duel. Dead even allowed the brave Empyrean knight to back out at any time during those three days. You had to bend over backwards to appease the nobles. Del win didn't do any of that, he didn't think it over, he didn't reconsider, he barely stopped drinking. It didn't matter. The Empyrean young ling had only been learning from tutors and books about the twenty-one schools of swordsmanship for a mere forty years. He had never been in a fight were people didn't count points. Del win's style was picture-perfect, his technique was superb--Del win was strong for an elf and fast. That didn't stop his dying within eight minutes. In front of the Guard and Empyrean Order as well as a few thousand other spectators he had killed the scion of a dynasty. The son of the Duke had never really felt the pain of someone smashing your kneecap, sweeping your blade aside to puncture your heart and the rather unnecessary for an elf but par for the course in killing a troll of the wheeling maneuver that took his head off. As the heir to his father's house Del win had effectively lost his duchy to a commoner. Dead watched them all but shiver and spasm as the understanding hit them. He let them stew for a bit before declaring he didn't want their home or even a place in it, just Del win's personal belongings which included his father's magical blade of crystal and the folios of the Empyrean combat arts. The nobles were sick to their stomachs, a commoner ...no a Guard had humiliated one of their best and brightest rising stars in all but moments and while he could theoretically have taken the titles of Del win, Dead showed leniency and claimed but a few prizes. They didn't like it because now their elite fighting standards were 'out there' to be shared with the rabble. The Empyrean knights didn't feel quite so invincible all of a sudden. Neither did the Queen Faerilyth. Not when a freaking Guard took out one of their own, and they were surrounded by the Guard. Even though he technically gave Del win every opportunity to back down, somehow it was Dead's fault for killing his opponent. Del win would never have spared his life, but that was beyond the point. Del win was actually important and Dead was a lowly Guard. It caused a great deal of tension for nearly thirty years. Dead found his friends began to distance themselves, and he got the most dangerous missions far more often than most. Fine. It just gave him plenty of time to put to practice all these new things he was learning. It took another seven hundred years before they would face Asia. She didn't wait for them this time, she had finally healed and had marshalled the forces of the elves' racial enemies as her own. She had nearly destroyed their nation in a few months when they were at the height of their power alone, this was just going to be putting the echoes of a great song down once and for all. Furthermore, she would take down the trolls and orcs next. Furthermore, she may be beautiful and golden, but her heart was vile and dark. The Midnight Sons tore through her ranks like wildfire. The Empyrean Order stood their ground and had even developed magic against her attacks. It had been seventeen hundred years of them preparing to fight her on a logical level, she didn't think that any of their magics would actually work this effectively. It was Dead that came out of nowhere to plunge that crystal sword through one eye, then only yank it out to spin and plunge it into the other. None of these noble elves had ever taken such tactics. Even deprived of her sight, she was dragon with senses that quickly compensated. He didn't fight like a savage. There was a plan and then another. When she destroyed the ground beneath him, he leapt from one piece of flying debris to another to bring the fight back to her. While he occupied her the others would pelt her with arrows and magic. It made her furious. Dead was always on her though, he pretended to retreat when she was strong and immediately reversed that to slash down her wings or take out one of her clawed hands. She hated him like few others in the universe. He didn't even have the decency to hate her back as fiercely. She read his thoughts...she was some cancer to be cut out of the world. He thought of her as a disease...and then she felt that stupid crystalline sword cut through her ribs just before her heart was ripped from her. She cursed and damned him with her final breaths. Out of all the nicknames, slurs and screamed insults he had gathered over the years, that is the one that people remembered. Suddenly the Queen was his 'friend' and 'ally'. She began talking of creating an eighth duchy with him as the new Duke. Fuck her. It took over two millennia of fighting and then taking out their greatest foe for her to recognize his worth? He left his realm to rebuild in the sunlight as he discovered his own new abilities and met others like him. Other Dragon Slayers. Brothers and sisters at arms. Crest Location:Over his heart. (Arm:Great sword (of enchanted volcanic crystals, adamantine and silver. Dragon Arm Ability:Plasma sheath: his blade absorbed some of the power of Asia. With a bit a thought his crystal blade glows he can sheath it in plasma, much like a miniature sun. Dragon Mode:Dragon Mode (diatonic form is a good blend between man and dragon, much like a werewolf is a good split between man and wolf. He has come to think of this as his war form. He doesn't deny he's diatonic but it's a mental thing in his head that he only resembles them in appearance not thinking. Growing another foot and a half and gaining almost two hundred pounds of muscle mass Dead's dragon form is mostly black with a golden underside. He is very much a humanoid and this form is mesmerizing attractive rather than repulsive--although he would look at you funny if you said that. Dragon Magic:★Martial arts: Dead has an instinctive understanding of combat and hundreds of years of devoting himself to protecting his homeland, an innate knowledge in hand-to-hand fighting styles. He is always watching and analyzing opponents style of combat and flaws in the opponent's attack and defense. He has learned to use attacks that can automatically knock down the opponent or use the strength/weakness of the opponent to his favor. Solar Healing: Dead, like everyone else is constantly absorbing sunlight. The sun is the force that provides light and life to the world, and he has learned to use this light to heal both himself and others. While out in the sun he can freely use this to heal, at night/underground this ability is much more limited. Flare: Light can do a lot of things. It can illuminate. It can welcome. Furthermore, it can warm. As it turns out, it can also make laser beams that slice through protosteelLife-Force Detection: Dead has the ability of being able to sense the presence of life along with a detailed understanding about what he is sensing. He always knows how many beings are in his immediate area. He's honed this ability to be able to track a life as part of his duties as a Dragon Slayer. Strengths:Acute Senses: he's an elf, an augmented elf. All of his senses are just simply better than a human almost approaching some animals. Combat Reflexes: you train your whole life to fight the big bad in the world and your reactions become extraordinary, with nothing astounding you for more than a moment. Lust for Life: After he killed the dragon he learned to live a little. He loves food, is open to a lot of new ideas and experiences and is always up to go dancing. Daredevil: rarely did any plan survive the battlefield. Dead has discovered that not only is he good at taking risks, he is even better at surviving them. Although not exactly an adrenaline junkie, he doesn't hesitate to some Batman level shit when the opportunity calls for it. Calm Heart: at his core, he is not in search of the next scrap or battle. It's a duty he is good at and fulfills without complaint. Dead is a naturally calm and well composed person who isn't easily provoked and even then, is always thinking. Weaknesses:Too many life times of war: Dead has lost a lot of friends over the years. Sometimes he just needs to be alone and remember them. One of the few times he drinks. Losing someone he cares for affects him strongly. A Knight's Code: maybe not with the flowery speech or fighting with regimented rules, but he will step in when people are being picked on or hurt. When a building is on fire he runs towards it to get the people out. He believes in the ideals of knighthood and nobility. Abstains from Alcohol: You can't get shitfaced and think you are going to be in any shape to fight a troll or train properly. It's a crutch he didn't allow himself. Alcohol affects him more than it would for someone of his size and build. Insomnia: he doesn't always sleep well. He usually ends up training to tire himself out and clear his head. Likes things bright. Maybe it's his powers but he always feels cold in the darkness. Even when he sleeps he likes a candle burning and always has heavy blankets. Darkness and cold attacks hurt him more than other attacks. Not exactly a Luddite but using technology to solve his problems occurs last to him, beyond not understanding most Earth technology. He would like the fun technology when exposed to it. Hobbies/Interests:Dancing--he already moves with the grace of an acrobat, moving to music soothes him. Singing--a hauntingly deep voice, he would sing when remembering the fallen. Gardening--he didn't want to only see his life as killing things Drawing/Painting--he's always been good at this, just didn't have a lot of time for it Character Soundtrack:Born Ready O/O's (( extra images (NSFW) (Harrell Age:27Height:5'6"Weight:143lbsHair Color:Brown Eye Color:Brown - Wears colored contacts, typically blue or green. Sexuality:Bisexual Basic Description:The images cover most of it pretty well. She has a few moles, most annoyingly being the one at the upper end of her nosecone. The only tattoo Brook has is on her right thigh, and was something she got while going to college. As for attire, when out and about she usually defaults to skinny-jeans and a nice blouse, typically in brighter colors, or if she has no plans, a hoodie. For home-wear, she defaults to PJ-pants and a hoodie or tank-top, depending on the temperature. She's decently fit, but most of it comes from having work that keeps her on her feet, she rarely exercises beyond that. Personality:A tired optimist would be a fair way of describing Brook's general attitude. She effortlessly downplays her own problems, and has gotten pretty good at pretending that things are better than they are, even if the cracks start to show when she's feeling cornered. Though she used to be fairly introverted when she was younger, she managed to turn that around during college to a semi-functioning outgoing attitude, pushed further by having jobs in customer service. She has a mean habit of being a little too generous, self-sacrificial if you will, even when it bites into her own personal comfort and stability. Backstory:In her childhood, Brook was the typical Sunday school kid. Only child, well-educated parents with good jobs, and glasses so thick they could stop a bullet. Good at studying, bad at sports, reliable but unsociable, the list goes on, like something straight out of a coming of age B-movie. Not much changed until college. She got good grades throughout the entirety of it, and had more or less free pickings when it came to picking college. The downside to it all was that Brook wasn't feeling all that motivated, and hadn't laid out much of a plan. Having free pickings led to making an unmotivated choice, taking up loans to get a master’s degree in chemistry. During these years, having moved out and moved far away from home, she grew up in a sense. The glasses were replaced with contact lenses, some attention was paid when picking out clothes, making an effort to become more outgoing. In retrospect, she'd come to view these years as some of her better ones, having finally developed some personality. First after college Brook realized how little she actually cared about the field she'd spent five years educating herself on. Brook moved back to Raven City, and found herself work at the lab for a company that made dish-soap. Not the most exciting, but it was a good position all things considered, and having started to receive the bills from her loans, it was hard to deny the position when it was offered. But two years of analyzing the molecules that made soap, with coworkers twenty years her senior, ground away any interest she had in the field. She threw in the towel and handed in her resignation, regretfully that also left her unemployed. Having little interest in her field, she looked around for just about anything else, and eventually found herself a part-time job in the city hall archives. She found herself enjoying it far more than she had with the chemistry job, but it wasn't enough to pay her rent, let alone her student loans on top of that. Finding another job she could balance with her hours at the city hall was a challenge and a half, but Brook eventually managed to talk herself into the position of barista at a coffee shop. Between the two jobs, she works roughly full time without counting for double shifts, and has just about enough to live on better food than rice and beans. All in all, she lives a scarily mundane life, balancing a hectic work-life with hobbies. Strengths:Book smart - Brook is an academic through and through, even if she doesn't capitalize on it. She's used to running into problems and figuring out how to unweave them, break them down, and solve them. At least on paper. Aikido - A skill Brook picked up during college. Though she only practiced it for a few years, several years in the past, she still knows a few of the techniques and throws. Musical - As a grand surprise to absolutely nobody who knew her back when she went to school, Brook was a band kid. Back in those days, she played the clarinet, nowadays, its mostly electric guitar. She's not amazing, but she knows a handful of styles and a few more difficult riffs. Weaknesses:Financially unstable - TL;DR Brook is poor. She's making ends meet, but that's about as far as it goes. She only has a bit left on the top after rent, utilities and food, and her solution for surprise expenses is either more shifts or defaulting on her loan - Not like she's ever going to finish paying it off anyway. Furthermore, she's a penny pitcher and rarely affords herself to spend on herself. Not so handy - Beyond changing a lightbulb or two, Brook isn't handy in the slightest. She struggles with basic furniture assembly, and wouldn't dare to try anything more complicated like fixing appliances or performing minor repairs at home. She's gotten fairly acquainted with her landlord over the years. Conflict-shy - It's not difficult to make her bury her view on a matter, a little bit of resistance is usually all it takes to make her drop. Other notes:Brook's usual way to get to and from work is by motorcycle - She owns an older model Yamaha V-max, gifted from her uncle. Having little money or know-how in regard to taking care of it however, it sounds like it's on its last legs and barely runs without a lot of throttle. She has managed to borrow an old sedan from a coworker at the city hall, but wants to return it at first chance. The relationship with her parents has been strained ever since she quit the chemist job and went with "less desirable jobs". Though she is a habitual smoker, she rarely does it in the presence of people who don't also smoke. Ons:Toys, anal, oral, casual nudity, shower/bath-tub sex Maybe:Multiple partners, light BDSM Offs:Typical toilet stuff, heavy BDSM/O thread:A bit old, but still roughly accurate. (#msg13783484) (StormseedAlias:WavedancerDragon Type:Water Apparent Age:25Height:5'9Weight:125Hair Color:Black Eye Color:Lavender Sexuality:Bisexual Basic Description:Olena is an average height, slender built woman. She is neither curvy nor flat. Much of her body is filled with lean muscle from years of training, eating only what was necessary to maintain body functions. The cool tone of her skin gives her a more bluish glow under the full moon. A tattooed inscription of her faith to her village is inscribed along the left center of her back. After consuming the power of her dragon spirit dark and light blue scales cover just the right and left aspect of her shoulder blades and up onto her shoulders, curling into her bicep. Personality:Olena is a graceful individual who moves slowly, has a positive but quiet confidence about her aura and will think and speak with poise, charm, dignity, and beauty. She is deliberate in who she is without being pushy. Positive:CulturedIndependentIntellectualNeutral:QuietIntrovertedAnalyticalNegative:Blunt Backstory:Olena's people inhabit small village where they are surrounded by ocean. A village of warriors and fishermen set in their ways of practice and respect what they were given. Nothing was taken for granted. There had been stories of dragon attacks in long history that the elders told stories about over the course of history. However, as her people worshiped the ocean and the moon goddess for protection did they feel the goddesses would protect them from harm. This was not the case as a dragon released its wrath upon her village. She, her sister, and a small group of warriors were the ones sent to defend the village but in the fight, even as they injured the dragon, she had lost her sister and in a fit of rage she chased the dragon down and finished it off. She tore out it's heart and brought it back to her family as way to show she had avenged her sister's death. When the elders spoke of the merits of consuming a dragon's heart. Even as she consumed the heart and was gifted the powers she receives there was an emptiness that plagued her by the death of her sister. When she prayed to the moon goddess for her guidance, she left home to find her purpose. Ending up being recruited by the King and fighting for them. Crest Location:Center of her chest Dragon Arm:Splits into two dual blades (like seen in her picture)Dragon Arm Ability:As it slices into it's enemy; it's able to pull water from its foe blood, skin, and muscles causing necrosis Dragon Mode:Dragon Mode form (Magic:★Absolute Dexterity-Limitless dexterity, allowing her to perform amazing feats of finesse, coordination and precision. Water Manipulation- Has the ability to control water around her, including Sweetwater Cutting-Use water to slice enemies, likes to use it as an extension of her sword skills, allows them to cut through enemies from a distance Water Shield Construct-Create shields of varying shapes and sizes out of water Strengths:Mindful-Life is precious to her, and so she is mindful in everything she does. When you talk to her, she'll provide you her full attention, she treats others with the same kindness and respect she expects from herself. Thick Skin-Things rarely bother her unless it is offensive in nature. She finds that being quick to anger will lead her to making mistake and costing people their lives or having power over her. While things might bother her, things she can't control, she is good about keeping a neutral expression throughout.Observant-Can pick up on little non-verbal cues seen and things that others might miss with a first glance. She is always watching even if it seems like she isn't.Minimalist-Growing up Olena has learned to value the things she has that sparks joy in her life. For that she can live on very little. After everything has serviced its purpose and no longer sparks joy. She will thank it and throw it away or donate it.Cooking-While she isn't a very warm person she enjoys making people happy when they eat the food she makes. Nothing is ever wasted when she is given ingredients. Sewing- Because she lives a minimalistic life the clothing on she does own she'll fix it over and over before buying something new. Weaknesses:Prideful - Sometimes she is too stubborn for her own good. When she is set in her ways it's hard to change her mind unless you provide her with a very good reason. Untrusting - Until she gets to know you; she can come off as cold and untrusting. She will keep everyone at an arms length but when you gain her trust she will have your back no matter what. Independent - Most likely to try and do things herself than rely on other people for help, in this it makes it hard for her to be a team player because she can't trust others to do it better than herself. "If you want something done right, do it yourself"Introvert-She was raised to never complain and keep things to herself. For that she won't express if she is in pain or suffering. Since she is the eldest daughter she must remain strong at all times. On/Offs:O/O (( Comanage:23Height:6'2"Weight:210 lbs Hair Color:Brown Eye Color:Hazel Sexuality:Heterosexual Basic Description:Brett has an athletic build and a friendly charm, which makes him very easy to approach and socialize with. When he isn’t bartending (something he does part-time), he can often be seen around campus wearing hoodies, sweatpants, and Crocs. As a bartender, he will often wear somber colors. A button-up, short sleeve shirt, jeans, and some leather shoes. His hair is a light-brown that some believe is dark-blonde and his eyes are a honey-hazel. He always has some hair on his face, and some people may even see him wearing glasses when he isn’t wearing his contacts. Personality:Brett is a listener, which goes well with his bartender side job. He is very easy to talk to that people can find themselves telling him more things than they would any stranger. He is good at keeping secrets, and he has a sense of humor, which borderlines on dark. Some jokes have him going to hell for laughing at them. Every morning, Brett heads to the gym to work out since he spends the rest of his day in class, and then in the evening at the bar. He has had to throw out some unruly customers before, and he stays in shape so that he can keep doing it. He’s not a confrontational type, and so throwing people out is the last thing he wants to do. If he has to, he will. Some drunks don’t take him seriously because of his kind-hearted demeanor. They’re normally surprised when they find their asses out on the street. Brett naturally tends to be protective of those he cares about. He is a gentleman who will walk someone home if they leave the bar late at night. If there’s ever an emergency, he would be that guy you can call and ask for help. If it’s meant to be a secret (no police involved), then he’ll still help even if it makes him nervous to do so. Even in this day and age, chivalry isn’t dead with this guy. Backstory:Brett grew up on the outskirts of Raven City and attends the University of Technology. His parents are Michael and Joanna Roman, and he has a sister in high school named Kayla Roman. He and his sister grew up on his parent’s farm. Brett, being the older brother, was introduced to his protective responsibilities early on. It has since carried over with some of his friends. He was always big and strong throughout school, and he was often teased about his farm life by his teachers and classmates. When he finished high school and the broad doors of life opened, Brett wasn’t sure what he wanted to do. All he knew was that he liked working out and staying in shape, and so he curiously applied to Not. His career counselor helped him build an academic pathway toward Physical Therapist, and while he enjoys his classes, he doesn't look forward to paying for it all at the end. He has since moved into an apartment in Raven City. Strengths:Brave-Brett is nonconfrontational, but when he needs to be brave, he will defy his own nature. Emotions of fear, adrenaline, and determination mix into a cocktail that empowers him to act even when he doesn't want to.Protective-Brett has a habit of becoming protective over his friends. If he gets to know them well, he won't allow any naysayers to say anything negative about them. He doesn't like feeling helpless, and so if he sees an innocent in danger, he will step in. Mediator and Counselor-Sometimes people just misunderstand each other. He will often hear his friends out and help them come to an understanding. He doesn't like drama, especially in his apartment. Furthermore, he tries to help people figure out a solution to their problems and make a decision good enough for them. Physically Fit-He remains disciplined in his workout schedules. Even on days when he just wants to stay in bed. Physical Therapy-He's been learning some techniques to ease muscle aches and tension. He will learn more down the line. Weaknesses:Nonconfrontational- Brett is the person who would rather pretend that he didn't see anything happen. He doesn't know the complete story. What if interfering means he is getting into someone's business and that person doesn't want him involved? Several anxiety-spurred thoughts enter his head, making him want to just mind his business until he can't any more. Wears glasses-Brett is near-sighted and will often be seen wearing glasses if he doesn't have his contacts in. If he doesn't have his contacts or his glasses on, then he is lost in the sauce. Human Weaknesses-He has the mortality of a regular human being. Law-abiding citizen-Breaking the law has never been on his mind. Having to do so intentionally is his worst nightmare. He doesn't want to be involved with cops, and he doesn't want to go to jail for anybody! On/Offs:O/O (( (Brand Alias:The Burning Dragon Type:Fire Apparent Age:early 30sHeight:6’1”Weight:185 lbs Hair Color:Brown Eye Color:Brown Sexuality:Heterosexual Basic Description:DES is a six-foot-one, one-hundred and eighty-five pound Avantasian-Human male with brown, short feathered hair singed and missing in patches along the sides and nape. His right eye is pearly-white and left a dark brown. Parts of his muscular body are covered in wavy, burn scars. Half of his lower jaw was near burnt to nothing, and became replaced by rows of clenched, dragon-like teeth after he consumed the dragon heart. His tongue became black and pointed, capable of extending passed his chin. His knight armor is steel plate, and he wears coverings to hide his unsightly features. In modern times, people would say DES has RBF (when they can see his face), which doesn’t make him appear any friendlier. Most of his pre-burning scars had been melted in his own flesh, but in the parts of his flesh still unburned, they remain. Beneath his shoulder blades and down the small of his back are red, ruby-like dragon scales. His body temperature is higher than a human’s. He describes his stomach to be like an incinerator. Anything that enters it burns as fuel rather than sits and digests. Personality:DES has been through very hard times. He had a short childhood, and he didn’t have much room for hopes and aspirations. He grew up doing what he needed to do to survive, and he regrets nothing. Furthermore, he believes life dealt him a bad hand. Nothing more. DES doesn’t like to talk about his past before the knighthood. Frankly, he feels the only reason the King accepted him was because he had the power of a Dragon Slayer, and he couldn’t afford to make any more enemies with such a power. Like the theme of his life, he joined the knighthood to survive, and it was better than sitting in a dungeon. He doesn’t care about atonement, pride, or honor. He is in it for himself. Des is a quiet type. He isn’t used to being social. Before becoming a Dragon Slayer, he was a criminal. After becoming one, his transformation made him into a freak. He avoided social gatherings and doesn’t show his face without his coverings for he grows tired of the negative reactions to his face and body. To cope with it, he prefers either to be alone or not talk about it. The flaming heart he consumed burned all the way down to his stomach. When he speaks, his voice is quite gravelly as though his vocal cords never properly healed. He can be quite sarcastic and rude, but beneath that crispy exterior, is a sense of humor. When DES is angry or preparing for combat, his body erupts in flame. The flames leave his scars and extend from his pearly eye like a banner. Backstory:Austrian Brand was born into an abusive household. His father, Aldrich, was an alcoholic who spent more time drinking at the tavern than earning money for the home. He was once a successful sell sword until the dragons appeared and made Anastasia a miserable place. Money had been good when it was Man vs. Man. As soon as it became Man vs. Dragon, kingdoms only wanted to hire any warrior dumb enough to try and slay a dragon. In Aldrich’s mind, the world was ending. Hisworld was ending, and he was too much of a coward to escape it. Destrian’s mother, Irene, worked whatever job she could find to feed her only son in her husband’s absence. Whatever money she saved, Aldrich stole to spend on spirits, and whenever he and Irene had an argument, he raised his hand against her. Despite the toxic atmosphere, Irene never ran away with Austrian as much as she contemplated doing it. Sometimes, Aldrich would return balling his eyes out and apologizing for his behavior, creating a repetitive situation of love-hate she didn’t have the strength to escape. When Austrian became old enough to understand instructions, the weight of saving the family was dumped onto his little shoulders. Whatever money he made, his mother would take and reward him with his favorite dessert, a slice of Pale Apple Pie. Austrian always looked forward to his dessert until the day he came home to see his parents fighting. Aldrich, upon noticing him, stormed over and wrenched the coins from his hands. Austrian angrily yelled at his father knowing that he worked hard for the money and wouldn’t get any pie if he didn’t give it to Irene. For talking back, Aldrich gave Austrian his first slap, and it became easier after. The boy hadn’t known that Irene had been trying to keep it a secret from Aldrich that he was the one bringing her money. Aldrich decided to take advantage of his son, putting the stress on him to return with coin. Out of fear of returning home empty-handed, Austrian started stealing whenever his jobs didn’t pay enough. He became proficient at it, but he lived in a small town, and it only took time for the townsfolk to start banging on the Brands' door. Other people had to make a living too, and Austrian was making their lives just as hard with his stealing. The town demanded compensation and a stressed Aldrich didn’t know how to pay them all back. It was either chop off Austrian’s hands or… Aldric took the boy into the dark one evening not wanting to awaken Irene. Austrian was frightened and confused, and after miles of walking, he was handed to a stranger with a prison wagon. His father was given a sack of coins, and he never saw his family again. Destrian spent his child to teenage life as a slave. He worked for his master because his master clothed and fed him. He worked until he became stronger and smarter to realize he no longer needed his current life. Austrian escaped, and unsure how to live a free life, he resorted to his old thieving skills. He continued to steal until he became hunted by the guard. He had wanted posters out for his arrest. Furthermore, he had been captured in a prison carriage a few times, and each time he didn’t go in ill-prepared. Furthermore, he was a notorious escape artist, but every time he was captured by a new guard across the country. New carriages; new bindings; things he hadn’t seen before. It became a game for him to figure out how to escape before the carriage reached its final destination. Cat and mouse became a game of kill or be killed. As he became older, the guards didn’t seem him as just some boy anymore. He was a man, and no longer deserved leniency. Austrian often had to fight his way out of a situation, but there was one day—one he would never forget nor be allowed to forget—the day the red dragon, Jam rot (Yam’rot) freed him. It hadn’t been intentional. The prison carriage had passed through the dragon’s territory and the creature happened to have been prowling overhead in the clouds. The dragon descended like a burning ship. Fire billowed and burst about its body, leaking from its eyes, nose, and mouth. Jam rot landed over the road, causing the jailers to flee with the smell of piss and shit wafting from their trousers. The beast opened its mouth and hosed the land with its fire. Austrian stretched out as flat as he could upon the carriage floor. The horses drawing the wagon were cooked medium-rare and still alive! In the horses’ agony and craze, the carriage tipped over and was dragged across the road, tearing apart until Austrian rolled free. Quickly, he fled to hide nearby walls of flame. He saw the bodies of the guards charred upon the ground. A quick glance at the dragon, and he noticed Jam rot became distracted by the running horses. Austrian was convinced that the god wouldn’t let him escape alive. After it consumed the horses, he wouldn’t be able to run fast enough to escape its flight. With shaking hands and panicked breath, Austrian realized that he would have to try and kill it. It was him or it. If he was lucky, he might eat from its heart. It had seemed like a story—an old slave’s tale. He didn’t have much of a choice. He had to try it. Destrian removed a long sword from the guard’s hip and swiftly sprinted over to the dragon. He kept his steps light like a thief! Jam rot was smashing the horses beneath its claws like a cat toying with a mouse. Its back was turned! He needs only be wary of his whipping tail. Austrian passed between its hind legs, limbs wider than the pillars of a temple. Its abdomen was arched and chest curved and low to the ground, granting him easy access. Austrian waited for the dragon to consume the second horse before he drove the blade into the creature’s chest with all his might. The sword passed through as though he might have been lucky to pass between its ribs. The dragon reared in startle and stomped about in a panic. Austrian released the sword and scrambled to evade the dragon’s thrashing. He feared the sword not being enough, but as he continued to watch the dragon squirm about, he saw it eject a stream of fire into the air. The dragon’s death throes were like an earthquake forcing Austrian to his rear. Its tail whipped, legs kicked, and head beat the earth as fire continued to spray from its mouth. The thief eventually noticed the build up of pressure in the creature’s chest. The dragon had been trying to alleviate it, but the imbalance created by the sword caused it to swell like a balloon. The sound of the dragon’s ribs cracking, Austrian felt in his own bones. He frantically stood and tried to escape, but with a loud explosion the god’s body scattered. Its hot, golden blood splashed Austrian and burned through his clothes and flesh. To this day, he couldn’t recall the suffering as though his mind had repressed it all, but he remembered hearing himself scream. He had never heard himself scream in such a manner before. Austrian laid on the ground paralyzed from the excruciating pain caused by his burns. The pain made him delirious. He remembered only screaming while simultaneously thinking he was going to die. Fortune; fate; whatever it was. The dragon’s heart landed like a sack of rice next to him and rolled across the grass. It glowed like a coal in a forge and pulsed with residual life. He had to get to it. If the old man was right, then he had a chance to live. If he was wrong, then he was a dead man any way. Austrian desperately crawled to the organ and upon grasping it, smoke rose from his hands as his skin began to burn. It had been like grasping a pot over a fire. He couldn’t retract his hands even if he wanted for they became melted to it. Austrian, with tears spilling from his eyes, a bit into the heart’s flesh. Jam rot’s lava-like blood welled against his mouth, burning his lips and jaw. The piece of tissue felt as though it dragged like a knife down his throat, causing Austrian to finally faint. Destrian awoke feeling a wooden staff being jabbed against his back. It was night, and a traveling couple had found his bare ass lying next to the corpse of Jam rot. The heart had lost its glow like a coal gone cold. He was no longer in pain. Austrian grasped his face, immediately feeling the monstrous teeth that occupied half his jaw. With a hand remaining clasped over his mouth in horror, he carefully rose to his feet and faced the couple who whimpered and screamed at the sight of him. What happened? They had called him a monster. Monster?! His body felt hot. Hotter than it had ever been, and in his apprehension, he combusted, causing the couple to flee back to their wagon. Looking back on it, Austrian would have found the scene comical for he chased after the couple while on fire, pleading for their help. They only urged their horses to flee faster to escape him. It had taken Austrian the entire night to get over the shock of his transformation. In the morning, knights had surrounded the corpse of Jam rot and were conducting an investigation. Each one tried to eat a piece of the cold and decomposing heart, but only received nemesis and the shits. They couldn’t figure out how the dragon had died due to the mess and wondered if it had been a natural death. Gods could die naturally? Unheard of! Destrian had been too afraid to show himself and knew that a bounty still remained on his head. He remained in hiding until he found survival too difficult a challenge. Driven by hunger and a need to care for himself, Austrian eventually turned himself in. He was imprisoned for two weeks until word reached some king in charge of a special knighthood that slayed dragons. The guards released him from the dungeon and armed escorted him to the king. It was at this castle before this king that his story began as a Dragon Slayer. Crest Location:The side of his neck Dragon Arm:A medium spear with a coal-black tip. The tip of the spear will turn from red to white as it heats up. Dragon Arm Ability:Flame heart– DES will draw the spear back slowly like an archer pulling on the string of a bow. The spearhead will begin brightly burning, causing the air to ripple until it combusts with wisps of lashing flame. With rocket-like propulsion, the spear is launched at a dragon to detonate on impact. Dragon Mode:Austrian will become engulfed in his own flame, and his body will sprout thick, blade-like scaling. Any humanity burns away to reveal a skeleton and a diatonic morphology. His body continues to burn in this form and his fire only gets hellishly-hot. [Reference (Magic:★Fire: There is no fire hotter than Austrian’s. When pushed beyond his limits, DES can generate a heat near hotter than the brightest star. He controls the radius of his heat. He can cause grasses and clothing lacking flame-resistance to combust in his presence along with other flammable gases and liquids. Flame Body: Austrian can turn his body into flame. Objects will pass through his body like passing through a blaze. This body also causes him to burn on contact. Flame Shield: Austrian creates a shield of heat that burns objects to nothing that attempt to pass through it. He can wield the shield alongside his Dragon Arm. Burning Momentum: Austrian can apply propulsion to kicks, punches, leaps, and sprints. Fire will erupt around the limbs being boosted. Strengths:High Pain Tolerance: Physically; emotionally; this man has beenburnedin so many ways. Survivor: At the end of the day, if he had to choose between him and someone else, whether it be friend or enemy. It’s going to be him. Accuracy: He isn’t the best there is, but he’ll make 90% count. Expert Spearman: Austrian knew how to swing and thrust a sword, but the knighthood felt he was more proficient with a spear. It was the basic weapon of any trainee, and with his flame techniques, Austrian learned to take it to a whole new level. Thief: He grew up picking pockets and robbing people blind. It’s wrong, but he’s good at it. Escape Artist: Never judge a book by its cover. He may not be attractive, but he isn’t stupid. He knows how to escape bindings and most prisons. Brawler: He may not know any martial arts beyond the spear, but he does know how to pummel someone he doesn’t like. Hot Temperatures/Climates: The less work he has to use to keep warm, the better. Hot climates and hot days increase the intensity of his flames. Weaknesses:Anti-Social: DES isn’t used to being social with people. It is unusual to him, and so he may rather stay quiet and observant than chime into any ongoing conversation. He also isn’t a fan of social gatherings. No real hobbies: Because of DES’s background, he didn’t really have much of a life growing up that wasn’t spent trying to survive on the streets or sitting in a dungeon somewhere. His hobbies could basically be considered illegal such as everything to deal with stealing from others and devising strategies to break out of prison. There is…maintaining proficiency with his spear…(work-related not hobby). Water: Water can create a ton of steam and lower the temperature of his attacks. While he can generate enough heat that water wouldn’t be too much of a problem, it still can make an annoying screen that blinds others. Not to mention the steam can be scalding to others. Wind: A strong wind could change the trajectory of his archery attacks. It can also scatter his flames as well as his Flame Body, forcing him to have to regain control of them. The wind sucks. Physical Appearance: He’s not the most handsome Dragon Slayer on the team. He knows he’s hard to look at. That’s why he keeps his face covered. He probably can’t go out in public without sunglasses and a scarf to hide his face. Apple Pie: It reminds him of his mother, and of course, a homemade pie always tastes good! Ice/Cold Climate: It lowers his temperature and the strength of his attacks, forcing him to have to expend more energy than normal to keep up the heat. On/Offs:O/O (( Jin Alias:The Apex Predator Dragon Type:Beast Apparent Age:21Height:160cmWeight:45kgHair Color:Light blonde Eye Color:Green Sexuality:Bisexual Basic Description:Might has a flat chest and a slim, slender build that one could compare to a stick. Even her limbs are comparable to twigs. Her complexion is very pale for someone who is outdoors often. She ties her frost white hair up into buns, sitting atop a face that sports emerald eyes and a tiny mouth. She wears what resembles an Earth cheongsam - combat attire that isn’t exactly known for being heavy. Furthermore, she does not wear shoes. Personality:Might was once bright and peppy, and too much time in the wild hasn’t really changed that. She is curious and energetic, and is happy to make a friend. She doesn’t understand boundaries or social cues due to spending too much time in the wild, and her time with the King’s Knights hasn’t really changed that. In fact, everyone remembers that she showed up stark naked when applying to be one of the King’s Slayers - it wasn’t embarrassing for her at all, even if everyone else had second-hand embarrassment. Mingzhu is protective of those she trusts, and will do what she can to protect them. She is driven to do that because she needs an outlet for her training and strength, a newfound need to protect the weak. She is still confused about her philosophy, mostly because she doesn't think much. Backstory:Might was born in one of Anastasia’s many civilizations - the Patron Centre. She was born to a pair of farmers in the more rural parts of the civilization. It was said that the civilization was born when its legendary namesake, the Patron, split into four lesser dragons with the shape of beasts and controlled the very elements to create it before sealing themselves away in four directions. Might was always curious about this thrilling tale, and wondered if she could acquire this power. As such, she left home to pursue this power. There was some part of her that didn't know if she would ever return. She was still young, but she knew she had to achieve something via a journey. As such, she spent time in the vast wilderness with nature as her only friend. She meditated, trained her fists against hard trees, grew fast-growing grass to repeatedly jump over every day, hunted beasts and built fires with her own bare hands. She trained herself to sense all around her, and to further enhance her senses, she chose to lose her shoes so that she could learn to sense the ground beneath her. As this took literal years of her life, it was inevitable that she would begin to outgrow her one and only set of clothes. Since it constricted her, and it was ripping at the seams, she decided to rip them off and use them to ignite a fire one day. She felt shame at first, but over time, as she was far from people and civilization, she had grown accustomed to being naked like an animal, and much like how her bare feet allowed her to feel the ground, her bare body allowed her to feel the wind and movement of all around her. Slowly but surely, she was ready for the trials of the four lesser dragons. She had trained her body and her senses. They were the Turtle, who inherited the Patron’s scales; the Peacock, who inherited Patron’s authority over the skies; the Tiger, who inherited the Patron’s ferociousness; the Serpent, who inherited Patron’s shape. She defeated them one at a time, failing a few. With each one she fought and killed with her fists and her martial arts, she obtained a quarter of the Patron’s soul from their hearts. It was when she had the whole thing that she truly awakened the Patron’s power inside her, unified once more. Acquiring this power, Might set out for others like her, feeling that her training was not done yet. That was when she found the King's Dragon Slayers and joined them, and that was a first day no one could forget. Crest Location:Navel Dragon Arm:Jade Resonance - A blade that takes the form of a jade comb (~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_300,h_200,q_90/b97502_02f1698cb99b4f32a5044e050c0268fb~mv2.jpg) embedded in Might's hair. When in active combat form, it grows a hilt to hold. Dragon Arm Ability:The Jade Resonance has the ability to grow and shrink, with its mass proportional to its size. Dragon Mode:Link to image. (typical Eastern Dragon is traditionally described to be a chimeric fusion of various beast traits - the scales of a fish, the body of a serpent, the talons of a falcon, the nose of a pig, the antlers of a deer and so on, so what better form than that? The use of wingless flight eliminates that weak point, so that’s a bonus. Dragon Magic:Partial Beast Shifting ★ - She is able to alter parts of her body into parts of an animal. Aside from simple things like altering a limb into another limb, she can alter a limb into a tail, and manifest a shell as a shield, so on. It is through this that she can partially manifest her dragon form. Full Beast Shifting - Can completely transform her entire body into that of another animal. The Sixth Sense - Inheriting the power of beasts, all her senses are greatly increased, as if she has a sixth sense. Any one sense is as good as the others combined. Her lack of shoes allow her to sense the ground the same way beasts react to tsunamis or earthquakes. Split into flock - Can disperse into flock or packs of animals, though how many depends on size of each and the like. If practiced, the flock can be bigger, and it may be possible for this ability to turn into outright self-replication. While at first this ability is limited to one type of animal per flock, advancement of the ability will allow the user to manifest as different animals at once. Strengths:She has good vitality and perseverance. She is an excellent martial artist Weaknesses:As one who has spent too much time alone, she is socially awkward and doesn’t understand social cues. Ons:Exhibitionism OKs:Multiple partners Offs:Toilet play, toys, heavy BDSM. Other Information:She isn’t used to clothes and would rather be naked, so as a compromise she’s permitted to not wear shoes and wears light clothes as opposed to thick hulking armor. She even has an official no shoes license. Joy! (TachibanaApparent Age:18Height:170cmWeight:65kgHair Color:Black Eye Color:Red Sexuality:Heterosexual Basic Description:Sakura is of a very lean build with few to no muscles, coated by a black outfit consisting of a buttoned shirt and pants. His signature trait are his rimmed spectacles. He is seen wearing black shoes Personality:Sakura is a no-nonsense kind of guy who expects work to be done on time, whether it be his or others. He places more pressure on himself than others, often stressing himself out and studying overtime. Furthermore, he can come off as rude, bossy and possibly even arrogant. Furthermore, he’s geared himself to a life of learning, choosing to isolate, so his lack of understanding and lack of friends as a whole has made him a bit of bitter, even if unintentional. Sakuya’s familial financial issues have made him more desperate for money than most. While he won’t kill another person directly, he would certainly rat someone out for money, not without a bargain first. He is selfish and will only help if he sees that something is to his or his family’s gain. Backstory:Sakura has been a diligent hard worker even as a kid. Ever since his father died and his mother had been working hard for him, he knew he had to fill a certain hole his father left - he needed to make ends meet, earn money so that his mother could keep a smile for a longer time. He set himself to studying relentlessly from that day. His constant need to do so had turned him into a cold recluse who rejected friendship and prioritized knowledge. This allowed him to ace tests, examinations and the like, but at a cost. He’s currently past the last year of high school, and is now looking to enter a good college so that he can finally get that job. Maybe he’ll find it sooner than he thinks? Strengths:As an avid self-starter, Sakura is knowledgeable in many fields. He’s good with assorted trivia. Sakuya has good research ability, and can find a lot about something he has never heard of with enough time. Weaknesses:Communication Actual practical application of aforementioned fields. Ons:Doggy Style; Missionary Offs:Toilet Play; Toys

Dragon Slayer [Character Thread]|rating:4.0

Lost love rebuilt

Quote When he found her unconscious on the road he was not sure what to do, but had decided to take her home, setting her in bed, hoping she would be okay. He would do his best to try and feed her as she slept, giving her water and what she needed though if she remained unconscious Glade would have to take her to the hospital. She had been gone so long, had she just been laying there this whole time? He truly hopes not, she was unconscious but not dead thank god. He only wished he had known what happened, and wished he had been able to find her earlier since now seemed late.((I'll give a description of what he's wearing and look like when she wakes up. Lol. Also need to have you use her name somewhere in your post since I forgot to ask what it was in PM's. Thanks.)) QuoteAmelia had been missing for two days now, laying passed out on a path near her house. It was obvious that foul play was involved, she had just been out for her morning walk when something had happened, what exactly was questionable. It wasn't like asking her would be any help, though Glade wouldn't figure that out until later. Furthermore, it was hard to imagine she had been out for two days, but those two days had been strange for her, drifting in and out of consciousness. What ever had happened she had been hit pretty hard on the head, half of her head covered in dried blood from the injury. Her light blonde hair was sticking to her head and had stained the top of her white t-shirt she had been wearing. Other than that her injuries were minor, cuts and bruises, nothing too serious. It looked as if she had been roughed up and then left there. The head injury was something to be concerned about, though. It was a concussion, though the severity of it was yet to be seen, that wouldn't be evident until she woke up. Mia didn't wake up for a while even after she was in bed, safely out of the woods and resting, being tended to by Glade. It wasn't until almost another day had gone by that her blue eyes slowly fluttered open, slowly focusing on the surrounding room. She looked confused, her head spinning. All that she could remember was waking up before in the woods, of laying in total darkness and her head hurting, of how cold she had been and how thirsty and hungry, now she felt much more comfortable, and she had at least gotten some water into her system thanks to him. However, Mia didn't seem comforted by what was going on but only more afraid, her eyes landing on the man near her, who seemed to have been sitting and waiting for her to wake up. She didn't recognize him, she had no idea who he was or where she was and that mixed with the dizziness and nausea she was still feeling from her injury made her feel afraid, her heart racing. Immediately she tried to sit up in the bed, or even to get up, but she was too weak and unable to lift even her small frame, shaking and collapsing back onto the bed. Quote"Woah woah woah!" He said when she tried to get up moving to her side and gently grabbing her hand, holding it a looking down at her with a happy smile, so very happy she was awake and well. "Mia how are you feeling?" He asked keeping knelt by her side, kneeling down on his knees and watching her with deep interest. His hair was a bright crimson, his eyes matching the same shade as his hair, those were his natural colors. He was wearing a white T-shirt, and black shorts, looking over her. Mia had been changed into a different set of clothes by him. He wanted to bathe her, but decided to save that for when she was feeling up to it, not wanting to risk doing something dumb while she was in the bath. "Are you, hungry? Thirsty?" He asked a bowel of soup was ready, and a bottle of cold water there as well. He looked to her with soft crimson eyes, filled with deep caring for her, waiting to hear what she would say. QuoteShe looked startled and started at him as he grabbed her hand, this man with the strange colored hair and eyes was touching her and smiling at her, calling her a name she didn't recognize her and talking as if he knew who she was. Mia had no memory of him or of her own name even, when he called her Mia she just looked confused, as if perhaps he had mistaken her for someone else. "Who are you? Where am I?" she said frantically, her eyes wildly looking around her, appearing panicked. She ignored all of his other questions, though she was both hungry and thirsty. Who was this guy and what was going on? She felt so confused, and her head was throbbing, she wondered if this man had done something to her, though he hadn't yet given her a reason to really think that. Had she been thinking properly she would realize that he was probably helping her, given her last memories were her laying in the woods for who knows how long. She had no memory of what ever had happened to her, just a bit of things that happened afterward. QuoteWhen she asked who he was and where they were the connection of what was going on was near instant. He let his hand slide out of hers and felt his heart shatter, these women in front of him was not the same women he had loved days ago. Sure it was her, but without her memory she could be an entirely different person. Still she was a person and he had to help her. He sighed and sat down holding his head before looking up. "I'm Glade. And this is... My home. I brought you here because you were knocked unconscious in the woods by someone. I don't know how long you were in the woods knocked out, but you have been asleep a full day since then." He said sitting up to look at her with a sad smile. "So I brought you here and nursed you back to health myself. There is food and water next to you if your hungry or thirsty. But please, just stay here and rest for now. There are a lot of things we need to figure out now. I know you, and you used to know me, but it seems you can't remember anything..." He said with a sigh. QuoteShe didn't understand the look on his face, he seemed sad, which confused her even more. When he started to explain to her what was going on and who he was she forced herself to calm down a bit, taking a deep breath as he told her where she was found, that he was helping her and planned on nursing her back to health. Mia sunk back onto the bed, her head still spinning, not yet thinking about the fact that it wasn't just the memory of her attack that she couldn't remember but everything else as well. Mia was tempted to eat some of the soup, but was immediately distracted when he told her that he knew her and she was confused all over again. No.... she didn't know him, and she had memories... but when she tried to think of anything she couldn't come up with any memory at all. "What.... what do you mean? I knew you?" she said, sounding panicked all over again. "Why don't I remember anything? What's my name? How do I know you?" she said, looking like she was freaking out all over again. Quote"Head trauma probably gave you amnesia. Whatever memory's you have, or don't have might never come back. When someone hit you really hard on the head you lost many, or most of your memory it seems." He said with a sigh looking to her. "Listen, just calm down Kay? This is all confusing for you, I'm sure. But you yourself have little to worry about besides weather you'll get your memory back." He said then thought a moment. "And as for your name, I would often call you Mia, short for Amelia. And when you knew me we were dating." Mia looked at him as he explained to her that she had probably lost her memories when someone hit her on the head, which explained how badly her head hurt right now. He said it rather calmly, but it was a lot to try and deal with herself. She didn't know anything bout herself, she didn't have any memory of... well, anything at all. When he told her her name it was like she was hearing it for the first time, she didn't know who he was even though he said they were dating, she didn't know where she was from, if she had friends, who her family was, she didn't know anything. It was a scary thing, and she was clearly struggling to come to terms with it." Okay.... okay...." she said, trying to calm herself, looking at him nervously. She had been dating him? What if he was lying to her? Though... he didn't seem like he was lying, so she supposed that she just needed to trust him, even if he was lying there wasn't anything she could really do about it. He nodded as he looked to her seeing she had calmed down for the most part. "Alright, well anyway just relax here, and I'll get you more soup and water Kay? Once you have your energy back I'll help you to the bathroom so you can take a bath or shower, whichever you want more. Your hair is still pretty matted with blood so now doubt that feels awful. But still you don't need to worry Kay? I'll answer any questions you have when you feel like asking them." He said and went back downstairs to get her food and water, coming back up soon enough. Mia watched him, nodding her head slightly, a hand moving up to feel the dried blood on the side of her head from where she had been hit. She gingerly touched around the injury itself, which was very tender still, making her wince as she touched it even slightly. Who ever had hit her hadn't restrained themselves. She laid down and closed her eyes, feeling awful and hoping that she would just wake up and all of this wouldn't be real. She was laying in a room that felt so unfamiliar with a person who she couldn't remember, yet she knew that she was probably supposed to remember both. It was frustrating, she wanted to remember something, anything, and she also wanted her head to stop throbbing. He had gotten more soup and water on a trey, setting it down on the night stand beside the bed, smiling to her gently. "I know nothing is how you remember it, but maybe you can get used to everything. I know you don't love me like you used to, and I can't force you to love me again, but I hope you'll give me a chance to perhaps have you feel the same for me that you once did, though that's all up to you. When your feeling better I'll also show you around town, we can go to the mall and out favorite café." He said smiling gently to her. She looked at him as he walked in again, setting down the soup and water on the night stand beside her. When he spoke she felt guilty, she had been freaked out about how this was going to affect her when really she wasn't the only one who suffered. Even if she didn't remember the person who she was before he did, and she felt like she needed to try and be that person. Mia looked at him, trying to remember anything, he said that she had loved him, and she wished that she could remember why, not necessarily for herself but for him." Okay" she said quietly, taking the water and drinking it, not sure what else to say. He nodded as she said okay, glad that she would at least try. "Thank you, Mia. I know it's not really possible to have you be the person you once were, but I can still hope I suppose." He said moving to grab a picture off the wall and holding it out to her. "This was us about a year ago, a few months after we started dating. We went to the most expensive restaurant we could, but the date went kinda funny to be honest. We laughed a lot, lots of people stared at us, but we had such a fun time that night so we took a picture, and we used to laugh every time we looked at it." He said waiting for her to take it. In the picture they were both dressed really well, he was wearing a black button-up dress shirt and white tie with black pants and black loafers. She had on a gorgeous white dress and red high heels. "Yeah... me too" she said, wanting to be the person she was before, who ever that was. It was uncomfortable feeling like she was some sort of invader in another persons body, like she didn't belong there and the person who had it before was gone. She drank more of the water, watching him as he took the picture from the wall and brought it to her, showing her a picture of them smiling, dressed nicely and looking happy. She hoped that they could look that happy again, she liked that idea." It's a nice picture" she said, wishing she could share the memory with him rather than feeling like she was looking at a strangers picture. It was hard to believe that this was her, that she was there. Hopefully all of these memories would come back, though until them, she would just have to try her best to make things go back to normal. He nodded, and moved to put the picture back. "Sorry..." He said sadly, realizing what he was doing to her, rubbing his eyes. "I just wanted to show it in case it would help. It was a bit selfish of me." He said looking to her and moved to sit back down, looking to her. "I guess I can't help thinking about the past, it was only four days ago. But I guess I better figure out what you do know." He said looking to her. "You speak just fine, so you still know English, but what about colors, numbers, and the alphabet? Can you remember all the basic knowledge?" He asked curiously looking to her. "No... it's okay, I am glad you showed me" she said, her growling stomach urging her to pick up the bowl of soup, taking a spoonful and eating it. She really was happy to see the picture, it was a good thing... it may have been somewhat upsetting, but it was still a good thing to see. She wanted to know more about herself before all of this happened, even if she didn't really know any of it." I don't think I have problems with any of that.... just personal things.... I don't understand it, but I know all of that" she said, eating more soup. She had basic knowledge, it was just anything about herself that she was unaware of. Somehow the injury to her head had caused her to lose those memories and not any others. He nodded. "Alright, so what do you think your favorite color right now is? And do you know what foods you like and how they taste? Do you know how every emotion feels?" He asked to go a bit deeper into what she knew, to get a grasp of how much of her old self and knowledge she had been intact. He watched her eat the soup, glad she was enjoying it, after all in the past this particular chicken noodle soup had been her favorite, or at least that's what she said since it was made from scratch by Glade. Still he was happy to see she was eating and drinking just fine to help get her energy back. When he asked her those questions she took a moment and tried to think of the answers... her favorite color.... what did all the different kinds of food taste like... emotions.... She felt as if she had vague ideas, but she couldn't answer for sure. She shrugged her shoulders, looking somewhat disheartened. "I.... I don't know..." she said with a sigh, eating more of the soup, which was delicious." This soup is good..." she said, figuring that was something at least. She felt as if it was better than other foods, though she wasn't sure what she thought of other foods either. He nodded as he heard her, and from her answer she probably could not remember anything down to her childhood, like she was more or less starting her life over as an adult. "I see. Well I guess that's where the edge of your memory is. You'll just have to learn yourself." He chuckled softly at the thought." Glad you like the soup though, it did use to be your favorite soup to eat." He said with a soft smile. "And do you want anything else? Any fruit or something else to drink besides water?" He asked curiously. It was daunting, to think that she had to learn everything about herself again. Would she be able to do it? What if she became a totally different person? She was afraid that none of the people she had known before would like her. "Yeah... I guess so" she said with a small sigh, eating more of the soup. She would just have to take it one step at a time, right now just thinking about it was giving her a worse headache." No, that's okay...." she said, happy with what she had for now, also she didn't want to put him through much trouble, she was feeling like a burden already to this person who she didn't know. He nodded gently. "Please don't hold back from asking me for anything though. I'm taking care of you because I want to. Your still a person, and you're precious to me. I don't know if that means much to you, but I want you to know that I care for you no matter what. I'll do whatever I can to make you happy, because all that matters to me is trying to make you smile." He said calmly, smiling to her, hoping that she would find some meaning in his words, at least appreciate them. In the past he would tell he that all he ever wanted was to see her smile, to show that she loved him, to make her happy because that was what filled his world with light. She looked at him and felt tears start to spring up in her eyes, quickly wiping them away. He was being so good to her, and it was important to her to know that there was someone who cared about her, even if she couldn't remember who he was. Mia was angry with who ever had done this to her, but now she just needed to focus on getting better and getting her life back. "Thanks.... it really means a lot to me" she said with a small smile "I hope I can be that person you used to know again..." she said, her smile turning into a bit of a frown after that, looking almost guilty. He smiled to her gently, moving a hand to gently grab hers, holding it in a precious way. "You may have lost your memory's, but your still the same. It feels the same. Even if you're a little different later it doesn't matter much, we'll just have to make new memory's together right?" He asked with a soft smile. "I just hope that whatever you liked in me the first time we met you'll see again. You can trust me though Mia, I promise I'll take care of you no matter what happens. Weather were lovers, or best friends you will always be the most important person in my life." He said gently rubbing her hand. "Still for now you should rest, once you can walk I can help you to the bath, unless you decide you trust me enough to help you wash anyway." He said with a gentle soft smile. She looked at him, her hand in his as he spoke to her, assuring her that it would be okay and that they would just have to make new memories. She imagined most people wouldn't be so calm about it, though would maybe even just leave her rather than go through the trouble. It was going to be hard, that much was obvious, they hadn't even really started yet. Things would just get worse, and it would be frustrating, but he seemed like he was going to stick around despite all of that." Okay" she said with another weak smile, feeling tired again as she set the soup back down, her head still aching. She was sure it would for a while still, she had hit her head pretty hard, she was lucky that it hadn't done any more damage really. Mia closed her eyes, feeling calmer and ready to get more rest. He nodded and gently tucked her into bed. "Well I'll let you rest, just call me if you need anything." He said smiling happily as he looked to her, starting to get up and leave the room so she could sleep and relax. He was not too worried. Losing the women he loved was hard, but he was just trying to keep positive. They could learn about each other all over again, and maybe fall in love all over again. He could never abandon her though, even if she had been a complete stranger to him, he would have cared for her, would have taken care of her. Even if she decided she didn't love him later and went to do what she needed to herself he would let her, as long as she was happy nothing else mattered. She nodded her head, watching him as he left the room, leaving her there to rest. It was all a lot to deal with, but she would manage somehow. She had to. For now what she needed was more rest, her body exhausted and sore still from what had happened and then from being left there outside for so long. There was some recovery needed, but hopefully it wouldn't be too long before she would be back on her feet, and then they could really work on everything else. Mia closed her eyes and she quickly fell asleep again. A few hours later he was just relaxing and resting on the couch, watching TV and waiting to be called by her is she should need him. He was happy she was safe, though she really would need to wash soon, he needed to wash her head so he could check on the injury to make sure it was healing correctly and not becoming infected or anything. She slept for a long while, not stirring until a few hours later. Her eyes slowly fluttered open, and she looked around her, her dry mouth being the first thing that she noticed. Mia reached for the water, finishing it and pushing herself up a bit more on the bed, touching the dried blood on the side of her head. She did need a bath, she felt disgusting." Glade?" she called out, her voice not particularly loud but carrying well enough. She didn't want to have to call him over, but she couldn't really do much by herself yet. She was feeling a bit better after drinking more and eating something, but her strength was returning slowly it seemed. He heard her call out to him, turning and moving to go upstairs, smiling as he was called into the room and moved to her side seeing her sitting up. "Yes Mia, what is it?" He asked curiously watching, ready to give her whatever she needed, or help her do whatever she wanted to. He waited patiently by her side, eager to help her with whatever she needed. It wasn't long before he was there, looking over at her and asking her what she needed. "Could I have some more water.... and um... I think I am ready for that bath" she said, touching her matted hair. She felt dirty, which made sense given she was outside for two days. She had dirt on her and then the blood too, she needed to be cleaned up not only for her own comfort but to stop any infection or address one if she already had one. He nodded and went to quickly grab her another bottle of water so that she could drink it, smiling gently to her, guessing it was a good thing she wanted a bath, though he figured he would need to help her, she would not doubt have trouble as weak as she was right now. "Alright, drink the water you need first, then I'll help carry you to the bathroom to help you wash Kay?" He asked to be sure she was fine with everything going on. She took the water and took a few nice big gulps, nodding her head. "Okay.... thanks" she said, knowing that he was going to have to help her with her bath. If they were dating like he said, though, then she shouldn't be too embarrassed, right? She drank her fill and set the bottle down, nodding her head "okay, I'm ready" she said, looking forward to getting cleaned up. It would make her feel a lot better, she was sure. He nodded, and moved to slide the covers off to slide his hands under her body, grabbing her legs and her back, lifting her up and holding her close to his chest smiling gently as he made his way to the bathroom, opening the door, then setting her down to sit on the restroom a minute, moving to turn the water in the rub on as a thought crossed his mind. "Um, I just realized you have been asleep for over three days and had not gotten a chance to use the bathroom. Are you feeling okay or do I need to help you undress then let you go to the bathroom and come back after your done to help you bath?" He asked just to be sure for her sake, letting the rub fill with nice warm water. She held on to him as he lifted her up, her head resting against his shoulder as he carried her away and to the bathroom, setting her down on the restroom. "Um... yeah.... that's probably a good idea" she said, feeling embarrassed now, but using the bathroom was definitely something that she needed to do. It was embarrassing having to rely on him so much, she wished she could just do this all herself, but her body was still weak and just keeping herself sitting there on the restroom was a lot for her. He was being good about it all at least and giving her no reason to really feel embarrassed, which was nice. She just had to remind herself that he knew her and cared about her even if he was a stranger to her. He nodded and started to take off her clothes, taking off the T-shirt he had put on her, and the sweats, since he had taken the time to change her out of her dirty torn clothes when he found her, leaving her naked after undressing her. "Alright, just call me when your finished and I'll help you into the bath." He said and walked out of the bathroom, waiting just outside the door, figuring that even if she was comfortable with him helping her wash doing her business in front of anyone would have been embarrassing. She felt embarrassed as he undressed her, blushing slightly. It was probably nothing he hadn't seen before, though, and she tried to tell herself that so that she would feel better. She nodded her head and watched him leave, happy to be alone. She went to the bathroom, happy to relieve herself in peace. At least she didn't have to deal with the embarrassment of him being there for that, that would be a bit much. When she was finished she flushed the toilet and shakily pushed herself up, wanting to stand at least for a moment, though it made her head spin slightly." I'm done" she called out, shakily holding herself there using the sink as support, trying to cover herself as much as she could too. He nodded and walked back in seeing her leaning on the sink standing. "Glad to see your getting some of your strength back, now let's walk to the bath Kay?" He asked wrapping his arm around her hip to help take some of the weight off her legs, starting to help her walk to the bath tub, helping her step in, then slowly setting her to lay down in the bath to relax and wash, moving himself to sit on the edge of the tub, grabbing a bath sponge, starting to gently wash along her back, starting with her shoulders, making his way gently and slowly down her back with the soft bath sponge. "Will you be able to wash your head yourself? I'm afraid I would not be gentle enough to wash your head for you." He said a bit sadly. She used him to help her walk to the bath, leaning against him for support as she got into the bath and laid down, the warm water covering her. Already it made her feel better, and she relaxed in the tub, letting out a sigh. She felt him wash her back as she leaned against the side of the tub, feeling even more weak after her brief exertion. Perhaps standing so soon had been a bad idea. "Yeah... I can do that" she said, and she reached for the sponge herself, wetting her hair and trying to get the dried blood out, carefully touching around her wound, which was still very sore. She had a decent sized lump on her head from where she had been hit, and it hurt even when she touched it, making it difficult for her to really wash it very well. He nodded letting her have the sponge, but watching a bit sadly as he sighed. "Um, Mia?" He asked looking to her. "I know this might be a little shocking, but I am going to fix the wound..." He said and moved his hand just over the place where her head had been bashed, finally using his power over blood and bone to remove all the blood on her head, gathering it into a ball before lowering the dirty hard blood into the toilet, then moving his hand back over her head and using his power to quickly heal the wound. Maybe it was too soon to show her his power again, but he could not stand to see her suffer, still after he healed her wound she would only have a slight itch that she would want to scratch from the wound being healed so quickly. He waited to see her reaction from seeing what he did so he could explain. She looked surprised when he said that he was going to fix her wound... how could he fix her wound? Mia sat there, though, and moved her hand away to let him work. She thought that maybe he would bandage her or something, but he seemed to not have any supplies or anything... so what was he doing? She felt the blood that was around her head being removed, hardened into a ball and then dropped into the toilet, then she felt something strange. It was like he was healing her, but he wasn't using any tools. She looked confused and afraid and her hand immediately went to her head when he was done, feeling the spot where her injury had been." What... what did you do?" she asked, looking confused, touching her head and not feeling the wound at all. There was no blood either, he had taken it all away. How had he done that, though? "Well... You see I'm not human. You knew this before, and I wanted to tell you later, but I was getting sick of myself just sitting here and watching you in pain. So I took care of the wound more or less using my magic." He said with a soft smile looking to her. "I'm sorry if it scared you at all, but I just wanted to help, I would never mean you any harm..." He said calmly watching her, hoping she would understand. Mia stared at him, not entirely able to understand what he meant, how could he not be human? He used magic to heal her wound. She looked at him, appearing startled, which made perfect sense, of course she was startled to hear that she was there with someone who wasn't a human. She wondered how she had reacted to that the first time he told her. Clearly she hadn't cared, she had stayed with him. "So.... if you aren't a human then... well, then what are you?" she asked him nervously. He had healed her and helped her, she had no reason to be afraid.... but it was a strange thing to think about, and she didn't know how to take it. "I'm a demonic angel, also known as half demon, half angel." He said while looking to her with a soft smile. She seemed to react a little better this time than last time, though the first time she had been so shocked she dropped a plate. "But I was raised as a human. I got my powers on my eighteenth birthday. I was adopted, so my parents had not known about me, and I never told them. The only person I ever trusted enough to tell my secret was you." He said calmly. Mia stared, looking confused still and not sure how to take this information in. A half demon half angel? So that meant that demons and angels existed? That bit of general knowledge wasn't still in her mind. Perhaps the reason she didn't freak out, though, was because she had heard all of this before. Somehow it didn't bother her as much as she thought it would. It was still strange and off-putting, but it didn't make her freak out or anything. "So um... what are your powers, then?" she asked, holding her arms around her chest as she looked at him, trying to accept this and not let it bother her or overthink it. "My true mother was a fallen blood angel, my father an ascended bone demon. My natural blood-line abilities allow me to manipulate blood and bone in any way I wish." He explained simply. "However I do have a mastery of magic as well, using the basic elements most of the time, but magic is pretty complex..." He said and rubbed his head, not wanting to go into detail on how magic worked, simply too hard to explain it all without it turning into a long history lesson. "I'll um... I'll take your word for it then, I guess..." she said, not wanting to ask more questions if it was only going to be complicated, maybe later... This all made her feel a brand-new headache, this time caused by so much strange information at once rather than her injury. She sat back again, feeling the warm water around her as she tried to just relax. She still felt tired and weak, even if she didn't have her injury to worry about anymore. He nodded looking over her. "Do you need me to help wash you anymore, or did you want to soak and relax for a while?" He asked looking to her to be sure she would be okay, though her expression seemed rather distressed, waiting to know if she wanted him to keep by her side or leave her in the bath a while, though the last thing he wanted to do was leave her alone. Mia didn't answer for a moment, not sure what she wanted. "If you could help me a bit more that would be nice" she said, looking over at him. All of this was a lot to take in, but she didn't want to be left alone. Having him there made her feel better, even with all the weird stuff that she had problems grasping at this point. She would rather have him there with her, though, then to have to sit there and think about it on her own. She didn't know him too well at this point, but his presence was comforting all the same. Maybe deep down she remembered who he was. She liked the thought of that. He nodded and smiled, glad that she still wanted him there. "Okay then. And how do you want me to help you? Just keep scrubbing your back, or what?" He asked curiously while watching her, wondering what she wanted him to do, and again wanting to do anything for her that he could. He was glad she took it so well. Maybe she didn't have any memory of him, but maybe her body did emotionally, every touch, every time they talked. She felt the same, even if her memory was gone. "I... well, I think I can do it myself... I just like the company" she said with a small smile, looking over at him. Even if he wasn't human he seemed like a nice person, and she trusted him by this point, even if she didn't love him yet. Hopefully that would come with time, he cared for her, and hopefully she could care for him. "Do I have friend or family, other people that I am forgetting?" she asked him as she started to wash herself, still feeling weak but able to bathe herself at least. "You have a few friends, mostly Mary since she was your best friend since kinder garden. She got married a few years ago, and we went there to see them, they have lived happily and come to see us once in a while. Your mother is alive, but in the hospital since she has had problems with her legs and can't get around any more really. Those are the people most important." She nodded her head as he spoke to her, listening to what he said. "Mary and then my mother. Did you... did you tell them anything? That I was hurt or missing or what ever?" she asked, feeling bad that there were even more people that she didn't remember, people who she had relationships with but who she was like strangers to all over again. "I guess I have my work cut out for me" she said with a small sigh. "Your mother knows I found you, she doesn't know you lost your memory. And I have not gotten to talk to Mary yet. She's on a honeymoon with her husband Ted." He explained. "And I suppose you do, though your mother will probably take it better than Mary." "You should wait to tell her then... I don't know her I guess, but I'd imagine that anything like that would suck to have to deal with right after your honeymoon..." she said, not wanting to burden anyone else. "Maybe you shouldn't tell my mom either... if she's in the hospital..." she said, just wanting to keep it a secret as much as possible. Maybe she was just afraid that she would let even more people down. He nodded gently, guessing it made sense. "Sure, we will wait as long as we can to tell them then." He said calmly while looking to her, moving a hand to gently rub along her back to try and help her relax since she looked a bit sad by whatever thoughts she had. "I'll be here for you no matter what alright? You can always rely on me." Mia nodded her head, looking over at him. "Yeah... I know" she said, already starting to feel more comfortable around him, apparently. She washed herself more in silence. "I think I am done" she said, feeling tired again, she was ready to go back to bed to lay down. Hopefully once she had her strength back more she could settle in even more, and after he fixed her injury she was sure that things would go more smoothly. He nodded. "One moment." He said and left the bathroom to get some clothes, grabbing her PJ's, which was a pair of fuzzy pants and a T-shirt, and then a black lacy night gown. "I brought both of these for your comfort. So if you want something warm then there are the PJ's, but you used to really love this night gown too, so it's up to you, after we get you dried off." He said putting the cloths on a hangar on the door, helping her out of the tub, and getting a town, keeping one hand around her hip, holding her up as he started to help dry her body off, letting he has the towel when she wanted to dry certain area's herself. She looked at the clothes he had brought her, not knowing which she wanted, he said that she liked the black one... maybe she would just wear that, it might feel more familiar to her at least. She accepted his help as he picked her up and helped her dry off, he was being very considerate and trying not to make her feel uncomfortable, which she appreciated very much. It was kind of him and proved to her even more that he really did care about her. Once she was dry she looked over at the different options for clothes, and she gestured to the black nightgown "I'll wear that... since you said I liked it before." He nodded and helped her put on the night gown, smiling as he slides that on, then the panties and nodded. "Does it feel okay? You always said it was the most comfortable thing you have ever worn, and I always said it made you look incredibly sexy." He chuckled and opened the bathroom door to let her out. She smiled and nodded her head, holding on to him for support after he helped her get dressed. "Thanks, it does feel good. Really comfortable, I guess I was right before" she said, feeling very comfortable in the night gown. It felt familiar and nice to wear. She walked out, a bit unsteady on her feet but enough to get to the bed, where she laid down in exhaustion. He nodded and helped to cover her up a bit and smiled happily. "Glad to hear it's comfortable, and you still look beautiful and sexy as ever." He chuckled and moved to kiss her cheek without much thought. "Sweet dreams okay? I'll just sleep in the room next to this one until you decide otherwise okay?" He asked smiling making his way to the door. She laid down and felt him pulling up the covers, making her feel even more comfortable as she rested. Mia smiled at him again, nodding her head; his kiss on the cheek even was comforting, something she hadn't expected. Maybe she was already starting to develop feelings for him all over again... "Okay.... thank you" she said again, watching as he started to leave the room, curling up on the bed and resting her head on the pillow. She closed her eyes and was asleep within a few moments. He smiled watching her and closed the door as he made his way to his room, once there he lay down and went to sleep as well, feeling very comfortable as he slept, dreaming happily about Mia. She slept well all through the night and into the day too, resting for a long while. When she woke up it was late morning, and she felt better, slowly sitting up and rubbing her head where her injury had been. She felt a lot better and looked a lot better, which was good after she had slept for days. She reached over and drank the rest of the water that was next to her bed and stood up, still somewhat shaky on her feet but able to move well enough on her own. Furthermore, she slowly stepped out of the room, feeling like she was in a strange place, though she knew that this was somewhere she was very familiar with before. Furthermore, she figured he would already be up and sitting somewhere in the house, so she looked for Glade. Glade would be downstairs working on making lunch. He knew she had been asleep till now and was working on making her something eat. "Good morning Mia." He said happily to her from the kitchen, making pasta, humming happily while he stirred, then moved to meet her at the bottom of the steps. He was wearing a black tank top and white shorts. "How do you feel?" He asked offering her his hand. She heard him speaking to her from what seemed to be the kitchen as she reached the bottom of the stairs, looking over at him. "Good morning" she said as she stood at the bottom of the stairs, looking around her at the house. She accepted the hand that he offered her, happy for even just a bit of extra support, though she was pretty good by now and could move on her own for the most part. "I feel a lot better" she said, seeming happy about her progress. He nodded and gently held her hand even knowing she didn't really need it. "I'm glad your feeling better, but how about some lunch? You slept through breakfast so you much be starving by now." He said happily looking to her, waiting to here if she was ready for lunch or not, since the food would help her get better faster as well. Mia held on to his hand, not needing it maybe but enjoying the comfort that he offered. It was a good sign, she seemed to already be warming up to him. "I am hungry, I think that lunch sounds like a good idea" she said and followed him into the kitchen, sitting down at the table. She saw that he had already started cooking, and her stomach growled in anticipation. He nodded and moved to grab a bowel, putting some pasta into it, giving plenty of sauce and meat before getting her a slice of garlic bread he had baking in the oven but ready now before setting the food down in front of her with a smile, freshly cooked. "Careful now, it's hot. And would you like some water, orange juice, or Milk?" He asked smiling to her happily, more or less ready to serve her hand and foot. She looked at the food in front of her and smiled, her stomach growling. "Looks good. Thanks a lot" she said, picking up a fork and tentatively taking a bite, not caring that it was a bit hot. She was hungry. "A glass of water, please" she said, looking very thankful. He was being very good to her, taking care of her and being very attentive, she liked that. "It's good" she said, gesturing to the food. He seemed like he was a good cook. He nodded as he got her a glass of cold water with a few pieces of ice in it, moving to place it on the table for her as he sat down beside her, watching her eat as he had a piece of garlic toast for himself, eating it happily and watching her with a soft smile. "Glad to hear that the food is great. I wanted to be a great chef, so I made sure to do whatever I could to learn." "You wanted to be a great chef? Well, I can tell. It tastes good, did you make the soup too?" she asked, remembering how delicious that had been as well. "You need to tell me more about yourself, I want to know those things... things that I knew before" she said as she took another bite of the delicious pasta, trying the garlic bread as well. Her mood seemed to be much better today, and she was ready to start taking steps forward, she wanted to get to know him and get to know herself too, she was happy he was there. He made her feel like she could get through this. He nodded. "Yes, I love doing anything that lets me be creative, or allows me to make people happy. Cooking, and drawing mostly. I also go for morning walks, usually me and you would walk together, go through the park and relax. We would try to go on a picnic every Friday as well." He said to start off, thinking of what else to tell her. She sat back, looking over at him, eating her food still, though she was eating it slowly now rather than doing it quickly. It was better to enjoy it and not shove it all down her throat, she wasn't as hungry after she had taken a few bites. "You draw? What do you draw?" she asked curiously. She liked the sound of walks and picnics, too. It all seemed nice. "I draw whatever comes to mind really. I have drawn you, stuff I have seen outside, and so on. Usually I sketch more than anything, but it depends on my mood." He said smiling happily seeing her enjoying her food, wondering if there was anything she would want to ask about her old self, or if she was fine with how things were. She liked hearing what he did, learning about him all over again, and so far she liked what she saw. He was a good person, he was kind and understanding, and she appreciated all of that. "What about me? What sort of things did I do?" she asked curiously, she didn't know anything about her old self and she was curious. What things did she enjoy doing? Maybe she was creative too, or maybe she gardened or something, she had to have some kind of hobby or talent like he did. What if she was unable to do that, too? Could losing your memories do that to you? He smiled thinking of it, to him, she did a lot more. "Well, sometimes you would help at the vet, you always seemed to love animals, you seemed to like it when you helped children find a pet that they could love and take home with them, seeing the smiles on their faces as you help them find a pet that was perfect for them, and you tried so hard to keep all the animals happy and healthy, giving them a little treat and playing with them now and then." He said calmly. "You also used to really love the water. We would go to the beach at least once a month to enjoy the sand, water, and fun. We would sit on a high place and watch the sunset together. You were always better at making sandcastles too, you would put so much detail in them that I swear I would tell you that you should become a sculptor, but you always said that's not something you would quite enjoy as a job." He chuckled softly thinking for more.((Hope all this seems okay for parts of her past, if there is every anything you dislike, let me know.)) (I like it, don't worry about it. (:)She listened to him, seeming extremely interested in anything that he had to say about her. She loved animals, that was good to know, and she seemed like someone who liked making other people happy. The person he was describing was someone who she would like to be again, if at all possible. "When we can, then, I think we should go to the beach" she said with a small smile, wanting to just jump right back into the things that she had once done and hopefully gain her memories back, if that didn't happen then she could at least figure out who she was again and work things out that way. She wouldn't remember anything, but she could be herself again. He nodded and smiled happily. "Well then, we can either go today or tomorrow if your feeling up for it Mia." He said smiling to her, glad to see her so interested in her own life, but he hoped she would not push herself. He wanted her to be comfortable with who she was now, not who she used to be, but then again the person she was now was no one, just a person in the body of a woman he lost her memory's. Furthermore, he smiled softly though moving to grab her hand and gently kiss the top of it, rubbing his face gently into her hand. "I hope this doesn't bother you, but it's something I would do when I would show that I treasured you." He said calmly to her while closing his eyes, gently nuzzling her hand. Mia thought about it, she liked the idea, it might be good for her to just get out if anything. "Yeah... today or tomorrow, I would be up for that" she said with a small smile. She looked at him as he took her hand, kissing it and then gently pressing his face against it, nuzzling his face against her hand. At first, she didn't know what to do, but then she found that she liked the simple action, and she felt like she understood what it meant without him explaining it. She smiled slightly "it doesn't bother me" she said, starting to warm up to him more and more. He nodded happily and let her hand go smiling gently to her. "Thank you. Really I'm just happy to spend time with you. Even if you can't remember, the way you talk, the way you act, the way you look at me. It doesn't feel like much has changed. I know it must be a little strange of me, and I know you don't love me yet, or if you even will, but I already deeply enjoy you." He said with a soft smile. "Oh, and if were going to go today, then let's go now. Want to go back up to the room, and we'll pick out a bathing suit and clothes to wear to the beach?" Part of her wanted to put it off and go later, but she wanted to just do it now and not put it off. It would be fun, a chance to get out and stop moping about what had happened to her. She nodded her head and smiled, feeling better after what he had said too, telling her she wasn't that different from before. It was a nice thing to hear. "Okay, let's go then" she said, and she stood up, not feeling her best maybe but good enough to go to the beach and relax a bit. It would be fun, and she could get to know him even better. He nodded and smiled. "I know your still a bit weak, but right now your body seems to be as tired after a day when you decide to do a mile sprint." He chuckled. "So believe me, once we get to the beach and relax in the hot sand you'll feel much better, and if you like I can even give you a massage while I put the lotion on your back. You always used to love when I would give you a lotion massage." He chuckled happily at the thought. Still when she stood up he nodded and walked to the stairs waiting for her to make sure she had the energy to walk around before walking up to the room and going to the dresser, pulling out a few bathing suits for her to pick from. Mia nodded her head "I'm sure you're right" she said, thinking that getting out would help her. She would feel better and everything would be fine, she could just relax a bit and the idea of him giving her a massage sounded pretty good too. "I might have to take you up on that" she said, still thinking that he seemed almost like a stranger to her, but that so far she liked him a lot, and she wanted to be closer. She didn't want to force it or anything, but she thought that if she could just get used to being with him again and somehow form a relationship things would be better. She walked up the stairs with him, looking somewhat tired but strong enough to get up the stairs. Furthermore, she looked at the bathing suits and picked out one that looked nice, a blue bikini that looked perfect for laying out on the sand. He smiled as she picked a blue one, and he nodded moving to put the other ones away again. "Alright, so want to wear a tank top and shorts with the bathing suit under the clothes? That's what we usually do anyway." He chuckled getting out a black tank top and blue shorts to match her bikini, looking to her and smiling gently. "I'll need to help you put the bathing suit on since the top is tied from the back, so I hope you're still comfortable with me after helping you with the bath." He smiled since he knew that he had helped her, but that didn't mean she was comfortable yet. She wasn't super comfortable yet with him helping her with things like that, but she nodded her head and smiled. "Yeah, sure" she said, it wasn't like he hadn't ever seen her naked before, there wasn't anything for her to really be worried about. Despite that she took the clothes and turned away from him to change, putting on the bottoms and the shorts before she needed his help putting the top on. She felt comfortable around him and trusted him, but it was strange given how little she felt she knew him still. He nodded and moved to slide the top over her breasts when she was ready, making sure that it was on properly as he tied the back and smiled nodding. "Perfect, now were ready to go." He said smiling glad she allowed him to help her. "We'll just take the care to get there, though it's kinda too bad since I usually let you do the driving before." He chuckled. "I wonder if you would even remember how to drive if I were to let you, then I could just give you direction's while you drive." He thought tapping his chin, guessing there might be a chance she still new how to drive a car. She slipped the tank top on after her top was on, smiling back at him. He was so cheerful, it was hard not to be cheerful herself, which was definitely a good thing. It would be easy to be upset with everything that had happened, but with his attitude the way it was she was able to keep her head up and be optimistic. "I don't know... I think I know how" she said, feeling like if she were to drive she would be fine. It seemed as if the only memories she had lost were personal ones, not how to do things. It was strange how the mind worked. He nodded and smiled. "Then let's go try it, and I'll just give you directions while you drive. I'm sure you would love to do something by yourself at least a bit anyway." He chuckled softly at the thought and moved to kiss her cheek before taking her hand gently and starting to walk with her downstairs, careful to make sure she had enough energy to move around before he would head outside and get into the car waiting for her, pulling the keys from his pocket and pushing the key into the keyhole so she could start the car when she was ready. He buckled up first, ready to see if she could remember driving just fine. Mia smiled and nodded her head "I would like that a lot" she said, wanting to do something where she didn't need help for once. Maybe she would need directions, but she could do most of the work. She walked with him to the car, holding onto his hand and then going to the car where she climbed into the driver's seat. She put her seat belt on and turned the car on, seeming as if she knew what she was doing, she felt like it was something that just came naturally to her. "Okay... where to, then?" she asked with a smile, seeing happy with the fact that she could do this. "Alright, when you pull out to the right, drive forward a few streets until you see Ceylon Ave. Street then turn left. After that I'll just tell you when to turn right, and we can head strait to the beach from there, we live kinda close to it anyway." He chuckled softly and looked to her, glad that she seemed to be doing okay with the driving by herself, she looked very comfortable as she was right now. "Okay" she said with a smile, doing what he said and pulling out to the right. It felt nice to do something that she clearly remembered how to do, even if she didn't remember when she learned or her experiences. It just came to her. She drove, listening to him when he told her to make a certain turn, and soon they found themselves at the beach, parking the car and then getting out. It felt nice to be out and somewhere else, and she was excited to spend some time there, she didn't remember exactly how much she had liked to go to the beach, but she was happy to be there, so perhaps that was a sign on its own. He smiled and stretched happily as he stepped out of the car, feeling the suns warm rays on his back as he chuckled and walked around the car to Mia and smiles gently taking her hand when she got out of the car. "Let's go, huh? And how about we go play in the sand first?" He smiled asking while gently holding her hand, softly rubbing his thumb of her hand while walking into the warm sand, having taken his shoes off in the car, now bare foot as he walked with her, so happy to be here with her. "He-he, guess we can call this our first date." He said smiling happily at the thought. Mia slipped her own shoes off and walked with him, stepping onto the warm sand, feeling it between her toes as they held hands. She smiled as he said that this was their first date, nodding her head. "Yeah, I guess you're right" she said with a smile, liking the idea. This was their first date, they were getting to know each other again, starting all over. She walked with him on the beach, feeling better than before, the warm sun and the feeling of sand on her feet giving her energy in a way, making her feel less weak and tired and more herself, what ever that meant at this point. He nodded and smiled happily as he walked with her along the beach, the towels were in the car when he and her would need them, chuckling softly he walked with her to the edge of the beach, near the water is the waves would come and soak their feet. "I guess when you're ready we can take our clothes off and put them into the car before I help you put some sun lotion on before we go swimming." He chuckled softly to himself happily holding her hand, raising it up to kiss it. "You really are so beautiful Mia. I'm lucky to have you even now." Mia smiled at him "From what I can tell I am lucky too. I feel like most people would be so patient or calm if something were to happen like this" she said with a smile, leaning over and kissing him on the cheek, showing affection towards him herself. She felt the water on her feet, making her want to get in already. She looked over at him "Okay... let's do that now then" she said, seeming to be looking forward to getting in the water. He had said she liked the water and right now she just felt the urge to dive in, which definitely made her think that he was right. He nodded and chuckled hearing her and having enjoyed her kissing his cheek, but making his way back to the car with her, taking off his tank top and grabbing a bottle of sun lotion, rubbing it quickly all over his chest, arms side, and belly. "Alright, now hold the front of your top of while I untie the back to rub in the lotion, then you can rub the lotion in on the rest of your body yourself for now. I'll give you that lotion massage once you're ready for it since you seem so excited to get into the water." He chuckled telling her as he waited for her to hold her top before pulling the string and rubbing the lotion along her back, then re-tieing the top before letting her have the lotion to rub on her front and legs. She walked with him to the car, taking off her tank top and shorts once they got there. She smiled and nodded her head "Okay, I look forward to it" she said, and she held onto her top like he told her to as he rubbed the sun lotion onto her back, moving her hands away after he finished tying it again. After that she started to do it herself, rubbing it on the rest of her body until she was ready to go. Mia seemed more happy and alive than she had been in the past few days, smiling and looking happy, not thinking about her lack of memories or any of that for once. He smiled happily when she was finished putting the lotion on as her self, he moved to grab her hand and chuckled making his way back onto the sand with her, eagerly walking onto the shallow part of the beach where the water came up, looking to her lovingly as they walked into the water together, once the water was to their knee's he smiled and let her hand slip from his figuring she would want to swim herself, and he wanted to watch her enjoy herself for a moment, happy to see that even though they had just gotten here she already seemed to be having a delightful time here. She walked with him back to the beach, stepping into the water, which felt so nice against her feet. Mia held onto his hand as they went further into the water until they were standing in knee-deep, feeling him let go of her hand so that she could swim a bit herself. She smiled and move further into the water until she was deep enough where she could swim a bit more, moving under the water almost right away. It felt so nice, and it seemed to be another thing that came naturally to her, again supporting what he had said about what she liked. She came back up, taking a deep breath and wiping the water out of her eyes. It had been a good idea to come here, and the perfect first date for them. He smiled watching her go deeper into the water and seem to enjoy herself, happy to see she was liking how things were going too be far. She looked so beautiful to him when she smiled like she did right now. She looked so comfortable and happy to him. Furthermore, she could pretty much always out swim him. He was definitely not a bad swimmer, but her technique, and form were much better for it than his own was. "So are you having fun Mia?" He asked happily while watching her. He was happy there first date together seemed to turn out so well, though the main thought on his mind now was to feel her lips, he wanted to feel comfortable enough to feel that first kiss again, to share in one moment where they might say they could almost love each other, though he knew a kiss didn't quite mean she loved him, but at least it would show she at least cared deeply for him. Mia smiled and nodded her head "I am... I guess you are right, I do like the beach" she said. Things were getting better, she was already feeling fairly comfortable around him, and she liked him, that was a start. She wanted to be even closer to him, to get something back that was at least close to what they seemed to have shared before. With time maybe they could be even closer because of all of this, she was willing to do what ever she could to get to that point, and judging by how he had been with her so far it seemed he was too. He nodded and smiled happily as she said she was enjoying the beach, glad she seemed to be the same person she was always even if she didn't realize she had not changed at all, only her memory's had left her, bot not any of her skills. He wondered if she would feel comfortable when he would finally be bold enough to kiss her, but that was a question for later he supposed when he could look into her eyes and see a look that might suggest she was just waiting for him to try, he wanted so much to be with her. Even as a new person he was having feelings for her, she was still the person he fell in love with the first time. Mia swam around some more, enjoying herself and just having fun. She liked feeling the water and for a while she forgot about the fatigue caused by the past few days and what had happened, but it was something that she couldn't ignore forever. She smiled and held onto his hand again after a while, "I'm glad you brought me here, it has made me feel a lot better" she said, feeling oddly warm as she stayed near him in the water. Perhaps she was starting to have feelings for him all over again, feelings that extended further than just liking him as a person. It was hard to be certain yet, she didn't want to make herself have those feelings just because she thought that she was supposed to. He nodded and smiled gently holding her hand, and pulling her a little closer to gently hug her and smiling as he looked to her beautiful face, moving his free hand to rub gently along her cheek. "I'm glad your feeling better, after all I would do anything for you Mia." He said happily as he pressed his head gently to hers and just looked gently into her eyes, enjoying the view of her eyes and chuckling softly. "Are you hungry? If you like we can relax and get something to eat and drinks then swim and play in the sand more." He said offering and smiling to her rather lovingly. Mia smiled, believing what he said, he would do anything for her. She believed him when he said that without any hesitation, he just seemed like that kind of person, and he clearly cared for her deeply, it made her feel happy to know she had someone who cared for her that much, she wanted to reciprocate it badly, and she felt she was starting to." I think that sounds like a good idea, I don't want to tire myself out too quickly" she said, hugging him back, looking at him while he looked at her. It was funny, she had just met him, yet she felt this connection, maybe it was some of her feelings she had had for him before coming through, she had loved him deeply enough that even losing her memories couldn't stop it completely. He nodded and slowly made his way back to shore with her, going to one of the food stands, and having a seat, smiling as he looked to Mia. "So then what looks good? They have some pretty good burgers and fries here." He chuckled softly looking over the menu. Burger's $5.00Fries $3.00Soda $3.00 (Coke, Sprite, Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper, Ceará Mist (Orange), Pink Lemonade.) Taco's $2.00Churo's $2.00Nacho's $3.00Bottled water $2.00 Mia walked with him and sat at the food stand alongside him, looking at the menu. "Well, if you said that's good I guess I'll have that and some water" she said, feeling pretty hungry. Her body was still trying to get all of its former strength back, something that was taking some time given all that she had been through. She was feeling a lot better already, though, and was acting more cheerful, which was a good sign. He nodded getting himself and her fries, burger's, and her water while he got himself a coke. "Yep, good choice." He said happily as he started eating his fries and dipping it into some ketchup sometimes, then taking a bite of his burger and drinking some of his soda. The burger's and fries were very delicious to him, and he hope that she was enjoying the food as much as he was.

Lost love rebuilt|rating:3.0

A Fish Out Of Water (Sashira & MrDiamondBackJack)

(NASA the mermaid rose halfway from the sea, her finned tail keeping her steady above water, she gasped in a breath of fresh air. She pushed her long blond hair, dripping with saltwater, behind her ears so it wouldn't cling to her face - how inconvenient this strange gravity was. She inhaled and exhaled slowly until she got used to her newly formed lungs, and then began to breathe more normally. The air tasted as fresh and crisp as she remembered from her childhood. Naia had only been above water briefly on school excursions, and that had been when she was a young merger, some 800 years before. But she knew that in theory a Meyerson could sustain themselves on land indefinitely. Emerging from the seawater was enough to cause the change from gills to lungs, from tails to legs. NASA herself had never had legs, having only poked her upper half above water to take a look at the land world. Most people she knew had never worn legs, and those who had said it was hard. Even painful at first. Naia steeled herself to take her first few steps. Anything was better than the Sea King's prison, where she would be thrown into a wretched cage made of whale bones for a thousand years. And since there were bounty hunters and Royal guards in all corners of the ocean, the land was the only place she could be safe. At least she wasn't leaving a lot behind. She had only distant family, no close friends, no lovers, no major property - she liked to travel light, always had. She got a bit of momentum in the open water as she headed for the beach. With a graceful leap, she dove out of the water in an arc, and landed on the sand with her arms first. She yelped at the impact - that definitely hurt more than diving into water. She flexed her legs, which were kind of pretty in their way, not nearly as ugly as she had imagined (like crab legs.) But as she started taking stock of the other differences between the land and sea, her mood soured. She was covered in sand. Instead of staying at the bottom of the world like it was supposed to, the sand got all over her body and clung to it. Her hair, which had formerly floated behind her as she moved, and could be rearranged with a toss of her head, clung to her back and shoulders like seaweed. The sun blazed full on her skin and baked it in an unpleasant way, making it dry and warm. Finally, there was the excessive gravity, which made her body feel heavy, her muscles weak, and her large breasts in particular feel burdensome. Did land people put up with this all the time? She stood up carefully, feeling like a stork on her long stilt-like legs, and took a few steps. The principles of balance and motion were similar to swimming upright, so it was possible. But the sand was hot and all of her weight pressed unpleasantly down onto her feet. She tottered her way towards the land that was covered in plant life, hoping it would be better for walking. This motion was uncomfortable for her feet but not as bad as she had feared. The green parts of the world were softer than the sand, and didn't burn as much. By the time NASA reached a road, however, she was trembling with exhaustion. When she took a step onto the road and found it as burning hot as the sand, she was too discouraged to continue. She collapsed by the side of the road and decided to rest a bit before going on. She lay sleeping there, a naked voluptuous woman who looked to be all twenty, unaware that this was not a usual sight. (Kingdom of Marseille was not treating Stefano well at all. He had been moving through the small seaside kingdom for three weeks now, traveling from town to town. In each town he tried to set up his wares and make some sales. In each town he ran up against the powerful West march Traders Guild, of which he was most certainly not a member. This guild was strong in all the kingdoms of the western coast and was starting to expand steadily eastward. He had encountered members of it before, but had never been anywhere that where they had such a corner on the market as they did in Marseille. His small trade wagon moved along the dusty roads, working his way to the capital, the City of Westport. In the distance, to his left, he could see the beautiful blue of the ocean. Still, the air was hot and stifling, sending sweat down his back. The ground to either side of the dirt road was sandy and GRE small, stunted trees. Stefano knew that he should have turned around already, and headed for greener pastures. Still, there was a stubborn streak in him that kept him going on. As his mother had always said of him, "It's not that my Steph is stupid, but that he is pig headed". Besides, there was a large festival being hosted there, which started to tomorrow. He had heard that merchant ships from many nations were sailing in just for the festival, which meant that there would be other non-guild members to trade with. Stefano was a tall, lanky man with long lean muscles. His face was narrow and ended in a pointed chin. Rather large ears were covered with a short, but shaggy mass of orange-blond hair. His pale gray eyes were set above a slender nose and sensuous lips. His shirt was loose and white with long sleeves which extended halfway down his hands. Strong, but slender legs were covered in tight gray trousers, stuffed into brown leather travel boots. Dusty peasant travelers moved along the road, walking around his slow moving trade wagon. His ponies were tired and needed rest soon. The wagon they pulled had a solid bow top and windowed sides. It was painted a cheerful green and decorated with carved moldings.(the cramped wagon was a wide bed at the head of the wagon, which took up all the space along the front wall. It was elevated off of the floor of the wagon until there was only three feet between the top of the wagon and the thin straw mattress. Under the bed's platform was a storage area with pull out shelves. Here Stefano stored his wood working tools, his finished products and soft cartable wood. The rest of the wagon held a tiny pot-bellied stove, a small work bench, a fold down table and two wooden stools. There were also a few more shelves and drawers, filled with a variety of items. Hanging from the ceiling were marionette puppets by the dozens. Some were clothed and painted and some were unpainted, naked wood. He had a variety of costumes in stored in marked drawers and could accommodate almost any sort of character. There was also a small chest full of fabric swatches, purchased from a variety of sources. A few half-finished tiny garments lay on his work bench, beside his covered pots of paints. It was just past noon, but Stefano knew that he would not be able to travel much further today, without taking care of his poor animals. He had not been able to treat of them as he would have liked, since the coins had been tight. He knew that his luck had to change soon, or he would find himself selling off his animals. When that happened, he would be like a turtle trapped on its back, waiting to die. In the distance, along the road, he saw what looked like someone lying on the ground beside the road. The peasants, with the fortitude and single mindedness of the desperately poor, were ignoring her. Stefano stopped his wagon beside her and looked down at the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. She was quite nude and covered in sand and even a bit of sea weed. He immediately wondered if her boat had wrecked, and she had walked to the road, only to collapse, but that would not explain her curvy, naked body, nor the lack of injuries. The same went for robbery. There was nothing to do but help her. He ran around the back of his wagon and pulled out a blanket. The day was blazing, and he did not know, but that she had succumbed to the heat. He stuck the blanket deep in the water barrel strapped to the side of his wagon, soaking it. Once he had the wet blanket, he walked to the girl and covered her with it. He next gently touched her face to check her breathing.IOC: I edited my post to fix a few typos, change a few words and add two or three lines which help clarify the setting. Let me know if this color is hard for you to read. I like using colors, but I could switch to brown or dark blue. NASA woke up to the most delightful sensation, cool, clammy wetness clinging intimately to her body. It was almost like being underwater. But she wasn't, she still had two legs and was breathing through lungs, so this was just a particularly nice part of the land world. Opening her eyes and patting at the wet cloth did not give her any clue. She had never seen cloth before and did not know what to make of it. She concluded that it was a water-bearing solid, like seaweed. Furthermore, she looked around, and was pleased to see that she was in a small enclosed space, like a cave. Since people always slept in caves or rock dwellings, hidden from sharks and other predators, this made her feel very secure. She also saw a man person sitting near her. This must be the one responsible for her improved condition. "I'm wet and cold," NASA said to him, by way of thanks. She didn't ask herself whether he would be able to understand her words, but it was not a problem; the people spoke an accented variant of the common tongue of the realm. She continued, "Thank you for saving me - I couldn't go any further." She smiled up at him, her mermaid allure making it an overwhelming appeal. "I'm NASA, and I'm running away from my homeland. Will you protect me?" Stefano was taken aback. He knew that it was insane to promise anything to a naked girl under a blanket. She talked strangely and was too beautifully formed and endowed to be a peasant. She had trouble written all over her. Still, he found himself nodding. It was impossible to resist the look in her large green eyes." Look Miss NASA, I am sure that I can get you to the next town. It's the capital, you know? There must be some ship there that can take you where you're headed. He was starting to feel a bit uncomfortable being alone with the girl. A wet blanket wasn't really clothing. He had his own spare outfit, but clothing was expensive. He didn't relish loosing his only change of cloths to this girl, who was obviously not in a position to pay him. He also did not know what she meant about running away from her homeland. Her accent was like none he had ever heard. He wondered if she had been a stowaway on one of the ships coming in for the festival. If so, there would be people watching for her. A beautiful, nude blond girl would be easy to find. His mind suddenly hit upon the clothing swatches in his chest. They were all cast off anyway, and had not cost him much. "Miss NASA, you can call me Stefano. The thing is, I don't really have any clothing to spare, and you can't very well go around like.... Do you know your way around a needle and thread?" NASA smiled when he spoke of taking her to the capitol city. That meant he would allow her to travel with him. She would have to convince him to keep her around by the time they reached the city, though - she knew what ships were, and they were no good for her purposes. Ships went on the ocean; the ocean was full of people who were looking for her. Therefore, she would stay in this cave on the land with the man person. Quote"Miss NASA, you can call me Stefano. The thing is, I don't really have any clothing to spare, and you can't very well go around like.... Do you know your way around a needle and thread?" Naia thought about the question. She knew what a needle and thread was, yes, she hadn't lived 2200 years without learning a few things. The people had whale bone needles that they strung with thread made of seal sinew. She was considered to be a steady hand with a needle, in fact. But what this had to do with "clothing" was beyond her. Being unfamiliar with the concept, she also did not understand what was wrong with her appearance. Didn't Stefano find her attractive? Land people were strange." I know how to use a needle and thread," NASA said cautiously. "Are you hurt?" She looked him over, checking for a gash worthy of sewing shut, but he did not seem to be bleeding. She was alarmed, however, as she waited for his answer. He seemed very nice, and she hoped he had not been torn up by the land equivalent of sharks. Quote from: Sahara on 03-10-2010, 08:15:28"I know how to use a needle and thread," NASA said cautiously. "Are you hurt?" She looked him over, checking for a gash worthy of sewing shut, but he did not seem to be bleeding. She was alarmed, however, as she waited for his answer. He seemed very nice, and she hoped he had not been torn up by the land equivalent of sharks. Stefano realized that the girl was looking over his body, as if she were looking for some sort of injury. He was beginning to wonder if she wasn't a bit touched in the head. How could she not be bothered by being naked, under a blanket, in a strange man's presence? She was obviously not pleasure girl and that was the only kind of girl he had ever known to be like this." Uh no miss. I am quite unhurt." He rose and walked over to his little chest and lifted the lid. His voice grew more firm. "Look, there are plenty of larger pieces of fabric in here. I can't talk with you when your... like that. I know it will take you awhile, but if you could sow yourself some sort of garment, that would help matters. There are needles and thread on my work bench, and you are welcome to use them." His mind went to the spare blanket which he had stored in one of his drawers. His existence was one lived from day to day. There wasn't much to spare, but he certainly could not expect the girl to work naked, nor to stay under a soaking wet blanket. It would take her a long time to sow together enough smaller pieces of cloth to make herself a modest dress. There was nothing for it, but to give her the blanket. Stefano moved over to his drawers and looked through them, finally coming up with a small green and white quilt. Its owner wasn't alive anymore to need it. It was time it to see the light of day again. He forced himself not to cry and set it down on his work bench." This blanket will get your started. You can probably form some sort of crude garment within a couple of hours. I'm going to go see about getting dinner, since you seem to be doing better now." He moved toward the door to the caravan, but turned to look at her again. "Don't worry miss. Everything is going to be O.K. We'll talk it over later. If your feeling good enough to stand up, would you throw me the wet blanket, once I am outside? I hang it up to dry." NASA was beyond puzzled, but she resolved to figure this out for herself. Stefano would get tired of her if she needed his help with every little thing. In the sea it was common practice to abandon one's offspring when they became tiresome, and it was probably the same here with unexpected guests. The bit with the blanket was clear enough. He wanted the wet thing so he could make it dry, because that was how things were supposed to be on land. She regretted having to give up the watery object, but it was not hers to begin with, and she would have to travel without its comfort sooner or later. She knew she could not expect to keep it damp forever. So she stripped the thing from her body and walked out to hand it to Stefano. "Your blanket," she said cheerfully, proud that she remembered the word after hearing it just once. He still wouldn't look at her! NASA didn't know why he was so angry, but meekly returned to the land cave without another word. She looked in the chest, where there were many pieces of "fabric". Some larger, some smaller. They had many different textures and pretty colors, but she could not be distracted by playing with the things. She held them next to each other, thinking how they would look if sewed. Hmm, when sewed together these pieces made a "garment". The green-and-white blanket could also be used to form this "garment", and quicker. Garment meant great big piece of sewed-together fabric, it meant appearance... he had to be talking about the fabric things on his body. He wanted her to make some for herself. Surely he did not mean for her to make all the same things he was wearing! His garments fit to his body, and were also very complicated. Even if she could copy the design they would not fit to her much curvier body. Besides, his garments were appropriate to his male appearance, while those of a female were probably different. That gave her a good idea: she would arrange the blanket until it enhanced her appearance the most, and that would at least be close to a female garment. If she did her best, she might make herself pretty enough to please Stefano, though she was nervous - clearly land standards for female beauty were higher, as her unadorned body was considered quite lovely under the sea.(wrapped the blanket around her torso, and after some experimenting joined the two ends together to make a tube. She sewed two bands near the top for her arms to go through, and then she had something that would stay on her body without having to hold it in place. It didn't fit her as tightly as Stefano's clothes, but she figured out how to bring it in a little at the waist, and that made it better. She stood up, turned around, jumped up and down; the garment fluttered about but stayed put. It was cut straight across at the top and bottom, leaving her upper breasts and shoulders bare above the fabric, and her legs below it. There, that flattered her shape - if Stefano liked it, she had done well. She went out to meet him, touching the fabric shyly. "Is this a good garment?" she asked, turning around so he could see it from both sides. "I tried very hard... but this is the first one I have made." The caravan sat in a small wooded glen, just off of the main road. The girl was unpredictable at best, so Stefano was glad that he had decided to come here. Since the girl had walked naked across the glade and handed his the blanket, his mind had been in turmoil. If her body had been hard to look away from when she was passed out beside a road, and covered with sand, it was even more so when she was walking toward him and away from him. The memory of her heavy breast and rolling hips were something that he was not sure would leave his conscious mind for a long time. He wasn't quite sure what he had said to her, but he knew that he had stared and that he must not have looked happy. Despite having his world upset, he had managed to get a fire going and strung a cord up between the caravan and a tree, over which he threw the blanket. He had pulled an old log up to the fire as a seat, and put up a tripod over the fire. He figured that it would take the girl a few hours to make some sort of garment that would cover her decently, so he threw together some stew in the pot and then took out his carving knife and started whittling and piece of wood from the firewood pile. Furthermore, he certainly wasn't going to return to the wagon. He was nearly finished roughing out a bear cub, when the girl walked out of the wagon again. If he had been taken aback by her naked state, he was even more startled by her appearance now. She had indeed fashioned a garment, but it barely covered her! Both of her long, shapely legs were uncovered nearly to the where they came together at her hips. The top covered her more decently, but left quite a lot of her pale flesh exposed. He stared openly, unable to look away and quickly came to a conclusion. If she walked into town wearing that.... dress, she would be arrested for public indecency. He was going to have to buy her a real dress, which covered her legs. It was a pity to cover them, to be sure, but everyone knew that a girl just did not show her legs in public, much less her ankles, unless she was in a brothel, or a slave market. Stefano found it hard to speak, but they really needed to talk together. He did not know where this girl came from, or what she was. He was beginning to wonder if she was even human, because she did not seem to understand the world at all. She was like a fully formed babe, throw out into an uncaring world. If she didn't learn quickly, she would be eaten up. He gestured with the knife in his hand at the log beside him. "Sit. We need to talk and to eat. Let's get some food in you and then we are going to talk." He stood stiffly and tried not to openly stare at her, while he pours stew into two wooden bowls. The vegetables and bits of stolen chicken smelled wonderful.IOC: Cute picture. I can tell you put a good bit of work into it. :) NASA smiled in thanks as he gave her the food. It rested in a cup made of wood - how clever. She used her fingers to pick up a piece, but quickly dropped it again. It was hot! She had experienced this burning heat before, from certain volcanic springs which older and wiser people avoided. Really, why would anyone do this to their food? She left it alone, hoping it would cool off, and stuck her burned fingers in her mouth. He was looking at her, as if waiting for something. Did he want to know why she wasn't eating? "Thank you for the food," she said. "I will eat it when it is less hot." What she wouldn't give for a cool raw tuna, one newly caught, with its pale flesh still twitching. But she was on land now and must adapt. It occurred to her that Stefano had probably never met a Meyerson. He must be curious about her appearance by the side of the road." I am one of the daughters of the Sea King," she said, by way of explanation. "I must never go back there." She gave him a look of sorrow, enhanced to devastating effect by her mermaid charisma. "That ship you spoke of... would not be a good idea." She gingerly picked up a piece of food, no longer as hot, and ate it. Huh, that wasn't so bad. Leaning towards him with a persuasive smile, she said, "If you don't make me go back to the sea, I could serve you. I'll work to earn my keep." Since the merfolk reproduced via eggs and only at certain times of the year, she was unaware of any sexual meaning that might be taken. She gazed at him with her melting green eyes, waiting for his answer. Stefano found himself quite entranced by the girl, as she leaned toward him and promised to serve him, but he wasn't stupid. The girl was beautiful and looked oh so willing and so sad. She presented the same dangers to him that she would to any other. Still.... He forced himself to think. He looked down at her bare legs. "O.K., if you're a daughter of the Sea King, what are you doing here anyway, and shouldn't you have flippers, or tentacles, or something like that? In all the old tales, he is always talked about as being part fish, or something." He stood, to get himself away from her eyes. They seemed to have a power over him that he did not understand. "Also, I am not sure that I can afford a servant, or an apprentice. The thing is, I am just not the sort of guy you are looking for... princess." He still wasn't sure if that was what she was, but it would make sense. "Why don't I take you to the palace? I am sure that they would take you in as an honored guest." NASA was pleased that he had heard of the Sea King; that meant she would have less to explain. She skipped the issue of what she was doing here - "running away from home" was as specific as she wanted to get - and set about answering his other questions." I usually have a tail like a fish," she explained. She stroked her bare legs. "These are very new to me, though they are not as ugly as I had imagined them. Seawater makes the change; out of the sea, I look like one of you." She continued, "I am not a princess, though I could see why you might be mistaken. The Sea King has hundreds of children, maybe thousands. His daughters are not considered important unless he chooses to keep them around at the Royal Court. Like most of my sisters, I have been traveling across the ocean for a very long time." She paused, thinking. "Perhaps the Palace would be a good place for me? Though I would not be welcomed as royalty, I might find a home there anyway. My singing voice is considered beautiful even among the merfolk, and I assume that your King keeps women for his pleasure, as my father does." The Sea King loved music, and maintained a large choir for his amusement. Naia smiled at Stefano warmly. He was trying so hard to help her. "Until we reach the Palace, you must make good use of me. You have been very kind, so it is the least that I can do." Stefano realized right away that his half imagined thoughts of earning a reward for his efforts, either from a grateful father or some other related royal relative were gone. This girl had nothing. She was worth little more than he was. He knew the kind of girls that kings kept for entertainment purposes. They were called maids, but in reality they were little more than slaves, there so that the kings' could satisfy their lusts. If he were to take this girl to the palace, she would probably end up being abused by the local monarch. He wondered, for a moment, about leaving her with some madam. Certainly she would be treated better in an upscale brothel than she would be on the street. Singers and musicians were a dime a dozen. They had little standing in human society. Maybe in her world they had some status and right, but in the human world they were less important than the king's hunting dogs or his favorite mount. Still, when he thought about some other man using her like that, his blood started to boil. To tell the truth, he could imagine himself using her, but they would be just like everyone else she was likely to meet. The world was a dangerous, dark place for someone like her. She was an adult, but she might as well have been a child." Why don't we just see how it goes? In the human world everyone has someone over them. You can't just get hired. Women usually have a husband or a male relative to speak for them. I supposed that we look enough alike that I could be your cousin or your brother and try to get you some kind of employment. I'm just not sure what kind of work you could do. Singing is nice, but it isn't going to earn you enough to live on, trust me. Don't worry though, we will work it out in the morning." He was having trouble thinking things through, so he walked away from her entered the wagon. He gathered the bits of cloth and started to sow them into a longer skirt, which would cover her in a way that would not get her arrested, until he could buy her a real dress. Furthermore, he wasn't sure when he had decided to spend the money, but now he was sure. Furthermore, he couldn't let her face the world without a proper outfit, which did not scream whore. As he worked sowing the patchwork skirt, he could hear the crickets beginning to chirp. Soon the fireflies would be out and about. It was his favorite time of day because it felt like they were fairies, sent to dance for him. Quote"Why don't we just see how it goes. In the human world everyone has someone over them. You can't just get hired...." As NASA listened to Stefano, her spirits dropped. Life on land was much more difficult than she had anticipated. She watched him walk back inside the vessel (the name she had determined for the moving home) and took it is a chance to sit alone and think. She tucked her arms around her knees and looked up through the trees, feeling pensive. Furthermore, she understood now why Stefano didn't want to have her along. Furthermore, she had messed up the garment, that was clear. He was spending his own time to make her a better one. She was sad that her hard work hadn't been good enough, and in fact, she'd messed up his nice blanket. She had thought she could repay the trouble she had caused by working for him, but... land people didn't even care about singing. So what kind of workcouldshe do? She tried to think. Leaving aside her beauty, her charisma, and her lovely voice - which didn't seem to matter much - there were only her mermaid powers. She could read any of a dozen dead languages. Hm, probably not readily useful. She could predict when the weather was about to change, but why should people care about that if they weren't underwater? She could cause storms and typhoons, but only over the sea, and on a level that was quite devastating. Obviously, there was absolutely no use for a talent that could sink an entire fleet of ships. It was like wrecking Stefano's blanket on a ludicrous, unimaginable scale. Her only talents... were to destroy things. And to survive, underwater. She felt stinging saltwater in her eyes, and was surprised at the ticklish feeling of it running down her face. She touched it with her fingertips and tasted it, and felt so homesick she wanted to die. Instead, she sat in a clearing watching the sun set, with her own private ocean flowing from her face. Stefano worked by the light from the wagon windows, until it was getting too dark to see the needle. He was glad when he finished at the point where he could only just still see his fingers. It meant that he did not to use up lamp oil. With a satisfied nod he stood and left the wagon, taking the long, multicolored skirt with him. It was designed to fit stubbly around the girl's waist and fall to the bottom of her ankle. It was actually pretty, and would look every colorful when paired with the garment which she had already fashioned. He had found himself imaging her wearing it, selling his toys and puppets. She was as pretty as a milk maid and would be popular with children and fathers alike. He wondered if she could increase is profits enough to pay for the needs of another mouth. The gods had dropped her almost in his lap and he worried that if he failed to take care of her, it might count against his karma. When he walked over the log, he found her sitting with her bare legs pulled up against her chest. The setting sun sent red rays over her face, lighting her tears. Without a word Stefano set the skirt aside, sat next to her and pulled her into his arms, holding her like a child. NASA hugged Stefano back, clinging to his chest while she cried. After a while, she felt better, and wiped her eyes on the shoulder of his shirt. "We should sleep," she said with more confidence than she felt, "and tomorrow we will try to find something I can do." Perhaps things would seem better then. Grateful for Stefano's kindness, not just in providing her shelter but in comforting her, she ducked back inside the wooden vessel. She curled up on the floor like she normally would underwater, in a circle with her face resting on what were now her legs. She used her arms also to pillow her head. The floor was not as comfortable as the sand underwater, and her extra weight pressed her downward into its hardness. But it was not so bad. It was safe, with Stefano here to protect her. NASA seemed prone to mercurial mood swings which left Stefano struggling to catch up. He sighed and picked up the discarded skirt, carrying it with him back to the wagon. He was not sure if the lass would have already claimed his bed yet, or not, but he intended to sleep by the fire. Until they could find a place for her, in this new world, on behalf of the human race he was responsible for her. He picked up a burning brand from the fire and used it to light his precious oil lamp, as he walked through the wagon door. The pale pool of light revealed the girl already curled in a ball on the floor, apparently intending to sleep there. Stefano crouched next to her, trying to ignore her long bare legs, and gently shook her shoulder. "Lass, there's a bed for sleeping. It will be more comfortable than the floor." Ooc: mobile phone in an automobile post-sorry for any mistakes NASA woke up to the sound of birds singing, and was completely disoriented. What in the world was that noise? There was no undersea equivalent, where sound carried so easily that everything moved with silent caution. She slung her legs over the side of the bed and stood up, then promptly tripped on the sheets tangled around them and fell on her face." Owww," she moaned unhappily, rubbing her nose. She worked out how to unwind herself from the sheets, and tried again to stand. Her legs felt wobbly but they worked. The muscles of her legs were sore from supporting her weight for the last day and a bit. She stretched them out in front of her, pointing her toes, and began to massage the lean muscles. Her thighs were together, but if Stefano walked in he would (unbeknown to her) see more of her legs than he was comfortable with. They still hadn't had that talk about modesty of dress and other land customs. She was sure that her noisy stumbling had awakened Stefano by now, so she waited with a smile for him to join her. Surely she could sing while she waited, since the animals in the trees were already doing so?" I gave my love a tuna with just one bite taken out, I gave my love a cave that I had turned into a house. I gave my love a wishbone comb, to comb her briny hair, And asked my love to marry me, and be my maiden fair." As the tones of her silver voice rang out into the air, the birds fell silent from respect, and the morning stopped to listen. Stefan woke wrapped in his travel cloak, beside a now dead fire. The morning was still and cold, like most mornings on the road. The grass was damp to his touch and there was a ringing in his ears. Slowly he stirred and sat up. It had been a few years since he slept on the hard ground, but he was sure that he would get used to it again. Suddenly he could hear someone singing in the caravan. Seeing as there was only one someone that he was aware might be in his caravan, he assumed that it was his friendly renegade mermaid. Her voice was actually quite lovely and made him pause for a moment, before joining in. He knew the tune that she was singing, but not the words. Still, it didn't matter. After she went through the song once, he added his rich baritone to her lovely soprano, as he thought about how such singing might be used to attract customers. He tapped out a tune on his thighs as he joined in her song. It was surely her song, but he could not help but harmonize. When the verse was finished, he opened the caravan door, only to find the girl on the floor, rubbing at her legs. He had started to say "Lovely!" but that was as far as he got. "Uh yes. Good morning Miss NASA. I trust you slept well." He didn't mean to, but he found himself stealing looks at her long, lovely legs. "Yes, thank you," NASA said with a smile. "The bed was much better than the floor. It was quite pleasant, actually." She looked shyly over at him, blushing deeply. He had sung her harmony. It was how her people courted, leading up to a proposal of marriage written as a song. And the songs of married couples were beautiful duets indeed, sometimes joined in time by the sweet voices of their children.... She shook herself, reminding herself that things were very different on land, and certainly Stefano was not courting her. He even avoided looking at her, so he must not find her beautiful. That made his selfless guardianship of her all the more admirable, and she had to repay his courtesy by not treating him as a potential mate. Such attentions could only be irritating, like the misplaced first love of a silly young girl. With the formal courtesy that she would show her father, or any other male outside the realm of flirtation, she said, "I hope you slept well also. I think it is time we talked about what is expected of a woman on land. I do not want to break any rules and embarrass you." She tucked her legs beneath her as she spoke, so only her pale knees were visible beneath the skirt, and waited for his explanation. Stefano had never really though about what was expected of a man or a woman in society. Things were just the way they were. It felt odd to him to try to analyze how things were and why they were that way, and then relate them to someone who wasn't even really human. It took him so time to explain, but he started with clothing and went on from their. He explained that the legs were considered to be sacred and for the husband, or for the master, alone. Do woman, who was not selling herself on the streets, would show her legs to a man. If she showed herself in public the way she was, everyone would assume that she was a whore and treat her as such. There weren't such restrictions on the upper torso and chest. These were the mother areas of the body. The breast provided life and nutrients for a woman's babies. A baby did not care about propriety. He or she just wanted to be fed and comforted. What lay below the waist was for the husband or master, so were never shown. He went on to explain that in most kingdom's women were always under some sort of protection from men. Every woman had a husband, a brother, a father or a master, who protected her and guided her. When a woman was divorced and had no family to return to, or was left an orphan, then she had almost no legal status. She would either live in poverty and possibly end up selling herself, or she would need to find the protection of another man. The one exception to this rule was in the religious organizations. The churches to the various gods, goddesses and saints often had female religious orders. It was the one place where a woman did not need a man to be recognized in society. Stefano knew that they needed to move on. It was already growing later in the morning, and they needed to get to the market. He had accepted that for now, he would have to be the male protector for this woman, but was not sure how to define that. He did not own her, she was not his wife and she was not family. They would have to lie." I hope you have understood everything I said. If not, please ask me your questions. Right now, you are going to have to accept my protection, until we can find you a husband, a master or a position in a religious organization. Unless you want to be a prostitute, you will have to choose one of these. You will have to be a relative to me, for now, so that I can negotiate for you. You could be my sister, my cousin, the widow of a dead relative or some such. Otherwise, we would have to be man and wife, but that would make it impossible for you to find another position, unless I were to sell you as a slave. That would not be what you would want, having already escaped a world where you were not happy." "I do not want to be a slave, or a prostitute," NASA agreed. She was a little vague about the details, but Stefano's distress at the idea was convincing. "I don't know which of those three things you mentioned I would prefer. I will try to reach a decision." She hated to trouble him by being indecisive, but she just didn't know the answer. Not without seeing how women were treated under these various forms of control." As for our relationship, we should be relatives, I think," continued NASA. She fingered her fine golden hair, holding a lock of it out to him in demonstration. "Human siblings have similar coloration, don't they? I could be your sister." She smiled at him, feeling very happy. She had always wanted a sibling, like those lucky MER-children born to families. Now Stefano could be her brother, kind and brave and wise. He was everything she would want in a relative." Would that work, Stefano? To be your sister and help you in your business... until we find somewhere for me to go?" she asked. She hugged him experimentally. "My brother." He felt good in her arms, very warm and muscular. What a handsome brother she had. If she understood correctly, now that they were related it was appropriate for them to touch. Stefano suddenly found his arms full of a very soft woman. He put his arms around her awkwardly, all to be aware of her bosom pressed against his chest. Half of him wanted to stay this way for a while. It had been months since he had held a woman like this, and NASA was quite a woman. Still, he needed to protect her, not use her. He finally released her and nodded. "Yes sister. That's what we will do then." A short time later, they were on the road, headed toward the next town. The traffic was busy, but Stefano was able to keep the wagon moving. The colorful wagon attracted some attention, which he welcomed. He waved at his fellow travelers and talked with those who passed close by.---------------------------------Back in the glen, about an hour and a half later, a whip thin man with bluish skin, knelt near the remnants of their campfire and sniffed the grounds. His aquiline nose twitched as he held it up in the air. His eyes were solid aqua orbs and there was a strange sheen to his skin. He wore a skin tight black leather jumpsuit and had two nasty looking long knives on his belt. His long white hair was wet and fell flatly around his narrow face. NASA leaned out of the wagon to wave at people, beaming a radiant smile. She was so pleased that their approach was greeted by the common people. It was almost like coming home to this strange city. Just then, a chilling thought struck her. The Sea King had people combing the ocean for her - it was not completely unreasonable that some of these people might have contacts on land. Was she doing anything that might betray her as a mermaid? Thanks to her alibi as Stefano's sister, she didn't think so. If anyone were looking for her specifically, her hair was distinctive, and also her skin was very pale. She touched her hair as she thought about it. It was good that it was Stefano's color, but perhaps it was best if they cut it? As for her skin, she would have to ask Stefano whether they might dye it to make it less white. She said to Stefano in a reluctant whisper, "It is probably best if I cut my hair, brother. As it is, with locks this long and golden, I look like... a mermaid." None of the women in the town they were passing had hair as long as hers, hanging as it did down to her bottom. She lifted two handfuls of her hair towards him, demonstrating how much there was, and heard an appreciative whistle from a local lad at her pose. She blushed and smiled, dropping her hair and hiding behind her "brother". Furthermore, she was getting a lot of attention, especially from the men, but now that she was wearing Stefano's patchwork skirt it surely wasn't on account of immodesty. Furthermore, she peeked back out to give the potential customer a little wave. What NASA had forgotten to take into account was her unnatural charisma. Even without the power of her singing voice it was taking hold of the eyes and the minds of the humans they passed. As the wagon weaved through town, more people ambled along to follow it. If seen from above, the followers would turn into a moving arrowhead that slowly grew... pointing right towards Stefano, and NASA. Stefano was aware of the attention which his "sister" was attracting, and it should have made him happy. Attention could easily translate into profits. He could easily imagine a scene where lads and husbands and even some lasses lined up to buy from her, just so they could receive one of her smiles. The problem was, he was annoyed to discover, he was jealous. He hadn't liked the smile which she had flashed at the last lad. He did not care for the leering looks of passing farmers. Part of him wanted to order her to stay out of sight in the wagon. It wasn't her fault, of course. There was just something about her which made it hard not to look at her. Even she she just sat beside him, it was like having a warm afternoon sun shining on him." Uh yes, maybe we should, or we could color it or braid it. How would you feel about a headscarf? They are popular with women in this kingdom." He did not add that he hoped keeping her head covered might keep some of the hounds at bay. Stefano has come from a small village where almost everyone was a farmer or a farmers' wife. Both men and women worked hard their whole lives. They lived four decades or so and then they died. The bloom of their youth was short-lived and many of their children never survived to have children of their own. He had run away when he was ten, after his father killed his mother in a drunken rage. He had left behind a sister, who was already married, but who knew if she was still alive? Most of his time, after apprenticing to a toy maker for ten years, had been spent traveling alone. He realized that he was starting to consider keeping the girl on, rather than finding her a place in the world. It was comforting to have a sister again, even if his thoughts for her weren't as pure as was decent. He was fooling himself though. With the way men looked at her, he would be hard-pressed to protect her. Some rich man was going to want her and was going to have her, even if he had to kill Stefano to acquire her. NASA smiled cheerfully at the assembled villagers. "Oh, my, so many customers! There are enough beautiful things for everyone," she said to them. She stood next to the wagon, moving about to show off the merchandise and hand customers what they had asked for, directing them to Stefano to collect the take. The atmosphere was festive, with everyone trying to talk to her or get her attention as she helped them with their purchase. Men continued to be interested in her, even though she now had a harlequin-patched headscarf to match her long skirt. But Stefano's brotherly glare made them think better of flirting too brazenly. Women and children too were attracted by her charisma - the women wanted to be her friend, while the children clung to her skirt and climbed her legs. She brushed them off as politely as she could, keeping her smile bright. How full of hands the children of this world were! In her innocence, she did not associate this groping behavior with adults. Even after they had bought their toys and puppets, a lot of customers hung around, laughing and talking. It was becoming quite festive in this corner of the market. "Tell your friends!" she called to them on the spur of the moment. "Bring your money at sundown, and we'll be putting on a show!" It would make them a lot of money, she thought, with Stefano and his puppets, and her singing. She looked at him, trying to read from his expression whether she'd done a good thing. Maybe she should have asked him first... too late now. The market square was full of merchant booths, rented by day, the week or the season. Stefano had found an empty place to park his wagon, only to have to fork over a few coppers in rent to the owner of the space. It was to be expected. Every one in the world needed money and would do what they could to make it. Sales had been brisk. He should have been happy, but it made him nervous. Everyone had visited their display. Everyone had stared at NASA. That meant her description would be around town. Even the town guards had wandered past a few times, staring over at them oddly. Now the lass was telling folks that they were going to put on a show? The girl really did not know what it meant to lie low. He hissed in her ear. "Just what are you playing at, dear sister? Remember, you are my human sister and you are not looking to be remembered. Remembering you leads to a reputation. A reputation, even if it is good, might not be such a good idea right now." He tried to restrain his frustration with her, but she was clearly an adult. He did not know the exact nature of who might be searching for her, but he had a very vivid imagination. NASA frowned at Stefano. His objection didn't seem reasonable. "I guess I don't understand," she said, speaking softly enough to reach only his ears. "Aren't human women allowed to put on shows? Is there something about that which would be - suspicious?" She gestured to the wooden toys. "Don't you ever put on shows with those? Even if you don't think I should sing, we could still do something with those. I could tell a story, perhaps, while you make the toys act it out?" Naia beamed, warming up to the idea. "I know a lot of stories, really I do, and I bet humans would like to hear them. Wouldn't they give us money for that?" Storytelling was one of the main pastimes of the merfolk, so she knew hundreds if not thousands of stories. She noticed that Stefano still looked nervous, and said impatiently, "If you're afraid of me being recognized, it's not likely, especially with my hair being tied up in this cloth. I've been looking, and my coloration is well within normal for this species. And otherwise, I think I've been doing pretty well at playing human! The customers love me." As an afterthought, she said, "If you're worried about someone from the sea coming to look for me, I really doubt that. Most people would rather die than walk around in this horrible dry place." She actually thought she had done very well. Even if he had a better reason for not wanting to do the show, he at least could have recognized her effort. Not one customer had gone away thinking that she was strange. She knew what the expression looked like, having seen it on Stefano's face so many times already. Stefano knew that she was right and simple shrugged. He wasn't known in this kingdom, so no one would suspect that his sister was actually a mermaid. In truth, he had sat on a stool and made some of his puppets dance, to attract attention, but to put on an actual show was another larger undertaking. Already his mind was filled with visions of dancing puppet and NASA's pretty voice. He looked at her and cocked his head to one side." How would you feel about wearing makeup that made you look like one of the puppets?" He was not an actor by training, but he was a good singer, and he was good with his puppets. If she were properly costumed, her simple existence would be enough to attract a crowd. If she could sing and tell stories, then all the better. Soon they were deep in a discussion of the details of the show. It felt good, to Stefano, to be sharing his work with someone. Maybe he had been on the road to long. There were times he thought about settling down somewhere and putting down roots. The open road had always called him though. He had always worried that if he did take route somewhere, it would be all the more painful when he moved on. While he was lost in thought he pulled out various puppets to show to NASA. The crowd had thinned a bit, giving them the space to talk and plan. At the edge of town, in a dark alleyway, the hunter slide through the shadows. He moved so quietly that even the rats did not take fright.

A Fish Out Of Water (Sashira & MrDiamondBackJack)|rating:4.0

Bound by Blood (Iso and Mr Badguy)

Days that were considered 'normal' were likely to happen commonly among free people, but among slaves, the days were uniform. And no slave knew this more than Gareth, who stood in the middle of a room full of cages and chains, unhindered by either. He was against the back wall, gazing across the metal and the flesh that it contained. There were many slaves in the market, the market being a wooden house with an expansive basement full of people. He was one of the few without any bindings or collar, and those slaves that had been with them for more than a day knew why. He was obedient, ultimately obedient. If a guard came by and told him to bite on a cage bar until he broke it, he would. So, he was given orders daily to watch over the slaves, and if any attempted to break out, he was to capture them, drink blood from them and throw them back into the cage. Very much like a statue, he didn't move, and he didn't speak. He only stood, observing. The thin man who had picked the door to his cage didn't escape his attention. Gareth left his post and was in front of the cage door just as the man was opening it. Being a vampire such as he, he had incredibly sharp senses, and enhanced speed and strength." Don't." He ordered, shutting the door and clicking the lock back into place. He then retook his position on the wall. Once again, less than a minute later, he heard the pick hitting the tumblers of the lock. He'd given him a chance, and now he had to punish him. Gareth appeared in front of the cage, and opened the door." Out." The vampire said, and the man did get out. But, he attempted to tackle the vampire down as he did, diving against his waist. The statue stood firm. After a moment of him punching, and pushing against the floor to try and knock him out of his way, the thin man stared up at Gareth's emotionless face." I said don't." Gareth murmured before extricating the man from his waist, and raising him up by his neck. He carried him this way, with one hand, across the room until he pinned him up against the wall, feet dangling two feet off the ground. Now, releasing some pressure on his windpipe, the vampire leaned forward and bit him, keeping the grip just tightly enough so he wouldn't be able to scream. “We have plenty of stock available ma’am, I’m sure you’ll find one to fit your needs,” Roger, a rather sleazy character assured Clarissa as they walked through the market.”Well, I sure hope so, this is the third market I’ve visited this week,” she replied. In truth, she didn’t have a clear picture of what she wanted in her mind, but she’d know when she saw what she wanted. At this point she was ready to just choose the next buff slave who looked like he could protect her. That is, until she looked down a row and spotted the giant of a man, a vampire from the looks of it.“What about him?” she asked, having stopped to watch the vampire deal with the other slave swiftly. Roger backed up and came to Clarissa’s side to look at what she was talking about. “Ah yes, Gareth, we use him to keep the other slaves in line, for the right price I’m sure my boss will be willing to part with him,” he responded, rubbing his fingers together seemingly asking for a bribe to butter up the “boss”. Clarissa rolled her eyes and handed him a few small gold coins. Roger grinned, “Follow me, I’m sure Mr Carlyle will be happy to make your acquaintance Lady Rochester,” he said as he started walking. Clarissa followed him, finally tearing her eyes from “Gareth” he was called.____________________________About half an hour later two guards would approach Gareth at his post.“It’s your lucky day slave, a pretty little lady has picked you to protect her. A wagon is waiting in the loading bay for you to be taken to her estate. But clean up first, you’ve got blood on your face,” one informed the vampire. Gareth smelled the scent of fresh, new blood before he heard the woman enter, and heard before he saw her in his peripherals. However, he was still drinking from the disobedient slave in front of him. While they were talking, the vampire released the man from his jaws and sealed his wound by running a finger over it. It was magic, how he did it and cost him very little energy to do so as he dragged him back to his cage, threw him in and shut the door. Now that he was sure there wouldn't be any more distractions from him, the sentinel returned to his post, with her down the row to his side. One of the long-standing orders was to never approach an outsider, or speak to them unless approached first. He kept his eyes down at the floor, another order. To not look an outsider, or guard in the eye. The only people he was allowed to face were other slaves, so even when a pair of guards approached him he kept his eyes down. He didn't speak when ordered to clean his face, Gareth simply did so, wiping the blood off with a finger and licking it. Gareth followed the two guards to the wagon, he came with no chains, accessories of any sort or extra clothes. She had only paid for him, and a small set of instructions. Needs to be fed daily. Will do what you tell him to, and NOTHING else. Clarissa watched as he approached with great interest, having already received the instructions she was even more curious about this vampire she had purchased. But questions would wait until they returned to her estate. Once Gareth climbed inside she gave the order to the driver to go. She did wonder about how she would keep him fed, and what would happen if he wasn’t fed daily, that was one of many things she wanted to know. It would be an hour or so travelling through town then out into the countryside before they came to the gates of her estate. When they arrived at the front of the house the driver helped Clarissa down, the blonde turned to Gareth.“Come, we have a lot to talk about,” she said then proceeded to walk up the steps to the front door where her butler opened the door for them, eyeing Gareth with suspicion.”Oh please Geoffrey, don’t be so rude,” she scolded the older man before leading Gareth to the sitting room. She sat down on a generous chesterfield, and she gestured for him to sit down as well.“I suppose I should introduce myself, I am Clarissa Grey. I was told your name is Gareth?” she asked, letting herself study the vampire in closer detail. She hoped she made the right choice choosing him, she needed protection from those who wished her ill. Gareth stepped into the back of the carriage and kept his eyes low and away from the new mistress, her guards and any others present. Now that he was in new hands he'd have to continue keeping his head down until the hierarchy was made clear to him. He stayed silent on the journey, and didn't move. He only waited for them to arrive. When they did, he followed only after the order was given, standing up and walking after her to the doors. Even to the butler, he kept his eyes down. He offered no response to the comments by the butler or Clarissa, only following, and sitting when indicated to do so. He was looking through his peripherals, as he typically did. Observing even when he appeared to not be. When Clarissa began talking again, this time to him, he raised his eyes, only slightly. Not to look her in the eye of course, but to show that he was listening." Yes. My name is Gareth." Was the slave's simple response, nothing more. Clarissa nodded, glad he wasn’t a complete statue, though he only answered her question and nothing more. And did not look her in the eyes. She thought for a moment about what she wanted to ask him next.“Explain to me your feeding habits, why do you need to be fed daily… human blood I assume?” she asked, her curiosity getting the better of her, asking him a few questions at once. He fascinated her, perhaps from the time she had laid eyes on him. She wondered at what had conditioned him to such a state of complete submission. She leaned back in her chair, watching him closely. Gareth was ready and prepared to answer any questions, but the question aboutwhyhe needed blood daily left him quiet for a second before he came up with the answer." Almost any fresh blood. No werewolf or vampire blood. If I'm permitted to drink daily, I do not have to consume as much as I'd need to otherwise." He wouldn't need to drain a victim daily, in fact, the blood taken from a normal human victim could likely be recovered within two or three days, depending on how healthy the person was. A full-grown man, and a healthy, hardworking one at that could provide for him every other day. A woman like her, however... It would likely be closer to four days. It helped to alternate between sources, and if he needed to stock up, he could. The answer he didn't want to answer was how they managed to get him like that, to a more convenient state where his feeding schedule was more flexible and held less of a toll on whoever he was in the care of. Clarissa noticed that he had avoided the question as towhee needed blood so often but didn’t pursue it for now. She’d have to find a person or two willing to let the vampire feed from them, she had a few people in mind thankfully. She was curious as to why he needed it, she wondered what would happen if she withheld blood from him, what he would do. Would his demeanor change from that of a statue to something more human, or at least with some emotions. She wondered if she wanted to risk it. As much as she just needed a bodyguard who wouldn’t ask questions, she also craved company, she didn’t have many friends and none who could understand her situation. Sure she had her servants, but she knew behind closed doors that they judged her.“What happens if you are not fed regularly Gareth?” she asked, a firmness to her voice, indicating she did not want him to avoid the question again. He was actually relieved that she had asked so directly what she wanted, he wouldn't have to reveal the nature of his training after all. Yes, the consequence of what happened did not phase him to share. Even though she wouldn't have been able to tell anyway because of his extremely Stoic nature." After a few days I will do whatever I can to get the blood I need. Disobeying orders, even turning on you if you're the closest thing nearby." It was the brutal, honest truth. He wasn't punished too severely by the slavers who picked him back up after incidents like that, they knew he couldn't control it, and that they'd caused him to have that flaw in the first place. Besides, it just meant they were able to resell him and make money again." I'll turn somewhat feral." Clarissa frowned a little, “that sounds quite frightening…” she mused, wondering how he ended up like that. She’d known some vampires in her life and to say that they showed more emotions would have been an understatement. Gareth was pretty much literally a statue until he had orders to deal with something even then emotion didn’t seem to be involved. She wondered if in his feral state his human side was more apparent. She moved to the side of the couch closer to him, “I’m in a situation that requires you to be vigilant, I have made a few enemies in my dealings, and now they’ve made very disturbing threats on my life. I’ll do my best to take care of your needs as long as you can protect me.” she stated, placing a hand on his knee, half hoping for a reaction but the other side knowing he wouldn’t. She was almost disappointed that she had ended up with a veritable statue, she’d become quite lonely, her friends had turned their backs on her, her suitors all disappeared, leaving her without company. Gareth knew how to comfort. He knew how to tell people it'd be alright, how to make them feel safe, but he needed to wait for orders. Or at least, permissions. Permissions to touch her, to speak freely, to move freely. Otherwise, he'd just follow her saying nothing until she asked him a question, or told him to do something. He'd try to help if he could. If she asked him what the matter was, he'd be forward and tell her that he hadn't been given permission to move freely. The vampire understood that she wasn't an experienced mistress. She was kind enough, and didn't have the tone of a woman who perversely enjoyed her position of power. Someone who would tell people things in orders rather than requests, speak in that condescending voice. He was glad she wasn't like that. Her situation, however, he was fine with. She needed a bodyguard, and he could fulfill that role excellently." I will protect you from any dangers that may come." Gareth responded, hands still in his lap, even as she had her hand on his knee. Things would get better. Hopefully she didn't have too many enemies, and he could dispatch them. Perhaps she'd be a good mistress. Clarissa smiled,” good, I’m glad, I think I made the right choice,” she stated. “I may as well show you around so you know the layout of the house, I’ll have a room made up for you. Then tonight I need to go out, we’ll find a few blood sources for you so you don’t go hungry. When do you need to feed next?” she asked, getting up to pour herself a glass of wine.“Do you want some wine? It’s a decent label, I didn’t feel like cracking open a perfect one yesterday,” she sighed. Something was clearly bothering her, but she was not ready to talk about it, and she doubted Gareth would break his habit to ask so they would remain silent about it all. Gareth nodded when she said she'd made the right choice. He'd defend her with his life, and very willingly. He knew that his master's life was to be held above his own, that had been drilled into him a long time ago. His sense of self-preservation was replaced with protection for whoever his owner was. Meaning he'd do whatever he could to keep her alive, up until he turned feral." Tomorrow, mistress." He answered to her, and then when asked about the wine, he shook his head." No, thank you." He watched her as she poured, and then drank. The sigh, how tense she seemed it all pointed to her being stressed. About her enemies, probably. Gareth didn't think that he was a part of it, that she'd wanted more out of him. After all, he was just taught to follow orders. Funnily enough, even though she had mentioned showing him around, he remained seated on the couch, waiting for further instructions, and hoping that soon enough she'd understand that he needed to give him permissions. Clarissa nodded, “good, that gives us plenty of time,” she forced a smile, taking another sip of her wine. “More for me than,” she sighed. She then gestured for him to follow her.“Come, I’ll show you around,” she beckoned him, walking to the doorway. When he followed her she showed him around the house, including the kitchen, where her bedroom was, and then showed him where his room was.“I’ll meet you at the door at seven, feel free to relax, I’ll have a tailor come around tomorrow to have some new clothes for you made. If you need anything, all the staff know to help you without prejudice. Unfortunately I can’t control their attitudes towards vampires, but they’ll come around… see you at seven,” with that she left him to his own devices in his room. Shortly after seven she appeared at the door,“ Sorry, I got caught up with something… shall we?” After following throughout the house, remembering both the layout and the wry smile she had when she drank, after being given the order to relax, he waited. Instead of sitting down or taking a nap, he stood right where she left him, looking around back and forth and thinking about how someone would get in if they were to assault her house in search for her. He also silently watched the staff go about their business, of course he kept his eyes away from their faces, but otherwise he said nothing. If they glanced at him, he would offer no type of response. He had nothing to say, they had not addressed him. Gareth didn't know when seven was. Not until the tolls of a clock let him know, and thankfully he made his way to the door at that time, waiting quietly. As far as she knew he went out roaming the house, speaking to people or whatnot, unless she'd discerned that he'd been still the entire time he was waiting for the toll that signified the hour they would leave. Although she was late, he offered no comment about it, instead he just nodded." Yes." Gareth was ready. Clarissa had been told by one of her servants that he had just stayed where she left him, that perplexed her, but she chose not to address it at that moment. She gestured for him to follow her out. She had changed into a dark navy dress and a silk choker around her throat. Furthermore, she led him to the carriage and got in and gave him permission to climb in before the carriage was on its way.“I do have to tell you, we’re going to a tavern that is frequented by other vampires, I have some business to attend to…” she explained Gareth followed, as gestured. He had duties to protect her, however, and in order to better do that he'd stay close. And if she decided to do something stupid, he'd do whatever it took to save her. Unless she specifically ordered him not to. That typically presented a dilemma, did he follow orders, or allow his owner to be endangered? It all depended on the situation. And the situation presented, a tavern with other vampires? That made him nervous. But when she told him, he did nothing more than except nod and say,"Yes mistress." Before keeping his eyes down for the rest of the carriage ride. His hands were placed politely on his knees, the old suit of his was looking gray as the polemic vampire merely sat. Clarissa sighed quietly, watching him for a moment before realizing something." I said I'd find a new outfit for you, didn't I? That ragged old suit must be so uncomfortable, not to mention rather ugly... I should have taken care of that before we left..." she groaned softly, rubbing her forehead." I guess it will have to do for tonight, I'll take you to the tailor tomorrow morning. Furthermore, I should really start remembering things, it's rather frustrating when I forget..." she trailed off, opting to look out the window. "We should be arriving shortly..." she added. A few minutes later the carriage stopped. Clarissa got out before Gareth and waited for him to emerge before heading to the door to the tavern. Inside it was fairly full of both vampires and humans alike. What set this tavern apart from a human one was that vampires were openly feeding or sampling humans'... mostly blood-whores' blood. Clarissa made her way straight to a back table with couches around it, a tall black haired male vampire grinned when he noticed her approaching. He got up to greet her,"Clarissa! Darling! What brings you to my haunt?" he asked, kissing each of her cheeks. He looked over her shoulder noticing Gareth, "Ah, and who is your friend?"" This is Gareth, he's my new protection. And to see you of course, Darling Claude," she replied with a soft smile. She turned to Gareth, "You can sit with us Gareth," she stated, knowing he'd stay standing otherwise, and she was not at all a cruel mistress, she wanted him to have some semblance of rest if he wanted it. She sat down with Claude, discussing various financial matters. Eventually the conversation turned personal and Clarissa offered her wrist to Claude, seeming to have some sort of understanding with the raven haired vampire. He took her wrist, kissing up her arm a few times before gently biting into her soft flesh, all the while watching for a reaction from Gareth. Clarissa had her eyes closed, leaning back into the couch. Gareth didn't want her to feel badly about the situation with the suit, it wasn't as if he'd complained about her to hear, or anything of the sort, but it wasn't exactly a question." There was no need, mistress." He answered, and said nothing more on the topic. A tailor and anew suit would be nice. It was good to look presentable in front of any guests she might have. He followed her willingly now, without any orders. His job was to protect her, and he couldn't do that from the carriage. When the door opened to reveal the amount of people, and vampires, the hairs on the back of his neck raised. A few vampires? Nearly half of the building's population were vampires. The blood being shed reached his noses before they'd even reached the door, and it was as if the entire room was shouting at him, he could hear everything, see everything. Smell the drops of blood, the booze, the tang of metal in the air from the concealed knives. His eyes were constantly flicking back and forth, looking for anyone who might be watching them, putting an eye on the pair. Claude was the name of her contact here. He'd have to keep an eye on him as well. But it wouldn't be easy staying focused, if he hadn't had so much training, perhaps he wouldn't have been able to. No, he narrowed his attention to her, and their immediate surrounding rather than the blood being shed throughout the room. They'd be fine. Seeing all of this made him think back to the days when he was free, and he wondered if anyone might recognize him. Oh, what a mess that might be. He wasn't particularly well-known before his capture, especially not in these types of places, but still. The off-chance that another vampire would recognize him made him nervous. This, of course wasn't shown on his face, but he was still just as alert as always, perhaps more so if possible. When she allowed him to sit, he chose not to. Gareth believed this place to be dangerous, and the vampire she sat down with to be equally so, and to sit wouldn't help in case a situation arose. So he stood at the end of the couch, watching back and forth, keeping an ear out for the idle conversation, and for Clarissa. Once the conversation went quiet, he could see in his peripheral Claude with Clarissa's arm in his mouth. The scent of her blood filled his nostrils, and he had to reason that she must be letting him. She was relaxed, she'd offered. He heard it. If she was under some kind of spell from him, he wouldn't know. But that didn't mean he wasn't counting the seconds his lips were on her flesh. It was a minute or two before her reaction changed to one of slow distress, "Claude..." she groaned softly only to have him ignore her. "Claude..." she tried again, he was not stopping. Clarissa tried to pull her arm away," Claude, I'm not fooling around here, you need to st-" she didn't finish before falling back against the couch, having fainted. Still Claude would not stop, seeming to be more interested in Gareth's reactions than the wellbeing of the woman he was sucking the life from. That is until Gareth would inevitably step in to stop him. Only then did he unlatch from Clarissa's arm and bare his bloody fangs at the other vampire, having not sealed the wound, Clarissa's life was still in danger.(Gareth won't be the only one to have noticed, planning to reveal that the tavern has rules about drinking not harming a willing participant, that is if you don't have any other ideas, feel free to use NPC's yourself. If Gareth doesn't kill Claude, the rest of the patron's will take action, at least that was what I was thinking) Gareth was watching, and of course, listening. So when Clarissa let out that soft groan, his eyes focused on Claude." Let go." He said once, before his mistress said his name again." Stop." It wasn't until she passed out did he move, now that he knew she was in certain danger, and he wasn't going to stop. He completely disregarded the act meant to scare him off, bloodied fangs did nothing to him. In fact, Gareth reached just towards his face, hand shooting out past his arms and grasping Claude's neck, pushing until he felt his fingertips touch the couch behind him. He reached over to Clarissa and gripped her arm, putting pressure on the wound to stop it temporarily as he viciously pulled Claude off the couch with the one hand and tossed him out into the open floor. Quickly some observers, the patrons and presumably, a guard or two fell onto Claude, keeping him from getting up, even though he was likely trying to catch his breath from the throttling he'd just received. He bent down and instead of biting her wound, placed his lips on it and sealed it. This was common vampire magic, healing the wound after biting. After being satisfied that her wound was fine, he turned to Claude." You." He was trying to get a reaction out of him, get him angry, yet Gareth's face had remained stony as always. The only difference one might be able to tell, was that if they looked very closely, his eyes seemed to be alight. With anger, perhaps excitement? Claude surely couldn't discern which. At least, not as Gareth began stepping towards him, knowing that with a damaged windpipe it'd be all too easy to finish the job. It wasn't until another guard grabbed him and started shaking his head." No it's over, he's done." Claude tried to bat Gareth’s arm away from him as the other vampire attacked him, only to have his windpipe crushed by the grip of Clarissa’s bodyguard. Next thing he knew he was flying through the air, hitting the ground hard and then held down by other patrons, vampires angry he had broken the code of this establishment so heinously. They deal with him accordingly.Meanwhile, a female vampire moved to sit beside Clarissa and poured a sweet nectar-like substance into the woman’s mouth and made sure she swallowed. She repositioned Clarissa to laying down before getting up again and approaching Gareth, nodding to the guard who was seemingly holding Gareth back from finishing the job.“She’s lucky to have you… Gareth, right? We’ll deal with this scum, he’s been warned before, but he won’t hurt anyone again. We take the safety of our patrons seriously, vampire or not,” she stated before gesturing to the men holding Claude to take him elsewhere.“I gave her something to help replenish her, but that idiot took far more blood than was necessary to feed and if he was truly that hungry, Clarissa was not the choice for that and he knew it. Take her home, make sure she eats something and has some wine to help sooth the pain, I doubt she’ll be well enough to do much for a few days…. Take this, get her to drink it twice a day in small amounts,” she said, handing him a vial with a clear liquid inside.“Please convey my sincerest apologies to Clarissa,” she said before leaving him. Now, his mistress was unconscious.... Sometimes that left him with a dilemma, but he knew that he had to protect her, and that she wasn't safe here. So, after listening to the woman and accepting the vial, he approached Clarissa, laying on the couch. No alcohol. There wouldn't be enough blood in her system to handle it, even if it was weak. No, she'd need sugar, water, and food. Protein. Of course, if she asked for wine, or got it herself, he wouldn't do anything to stop her. He couldn't." I will." He answered to all of these orders handed out by the female vampire. She wasn't his mistress. But these were things that would help her recover. So, he bent down and picked her up gently, holding her bridal style, but making sure her head was up against his shoulder, and he was holding her tight. She'd be cold too. He carried her out to the carriage and told the driver,"Bring us home." He sat with her by him, and he gently rubbed her fingers to keep them warm, occasionally touching her face to be sure that it wasn't growing cold as well. When they got home, he carried her into the house and brought her to her bed, laying her down and trying his best to make her comfortable. Behind these closed doors, with her unconscious, he knew that he had to make the decisions, which was easy enough. At least for now. Clarissa wouldn’t wake for several hours after he set her on the bed, it was clear she was still in distress by the way she groaned softly every so often. Her skin was cool to the touch, but she still breathed, albeit shallowly. When she finally did wake she did so with a start, her whole body shaking as she rolled onto her side. She did not seem to even see Gareth as she curled into a ball, her breath shaky as she tried to shake horrifying images from her mind. While Claude had been aiming to move Gareth to react, in his harm of Clarissa he had unleashed stifled memories from her past which haunted her in her comatose state. The loss of blood only making her state worse. Clarissa laid like that for a while, staring past him at nothing in particular. She finally came out of it and tried to sit up only to fall back onto her pillows.“Fuck my head hurts…” she groaned in complaint, not noticing Gareth standing at her bedside. A moment passed before she saw him. She closed her eyes for a moment before opening them again and looking at him. “I’m sorry, I should have known Claude would try to force a reaction from you… He never…. I was stupid…” she trailed off.“Could you get me some water please?” she asked softly. Gareth wasn't sure what else to do besides try and keep her warm under the covers. There was no fireplace, or if there was he didn't notice it. Once she woke up though, he couldn't do much but watch as she curled into a ball, wondering how he could have helped her. Gareth simply waited, not saying anything when she woke up. What was wrong with her? Yes, she was low on blood, but typically that didn't cause this type of reaction. The shaking, everything. Claude just wanted a reaction. That much was clear, and he certainly got it. If he lived past the whole crushed windpipe deal then he hoped that he was dealt with by those who ran the tavern." Yes mistress." He said when she asked for water. How could he have forgotten? The lady told him to bring her water from before. He quickly went to the kitchen where he brought two things for her, a large ewer of water, and a smaller cup to pour it in. He wouldn't have to make any return trips in case she needed more. Furthermore, he brought those things back up to her immediately, pouring her the cup and handing it to her. In his pockets was the vial from earlier, he brought it out and held it in his open palm." I was told you needed to drink this. In small amounts." Technically it was breaking the rules. He hadn't been addressed. But his main objective was to help her, keep her safe and healthy. And he didn't know what was in it. Clarissa sighed softly, rubbing her forehead as she waited for Gareth to return with the water. She felt so stupid, while she’d never had a problem with Claude before, she should have seen the incident coming. She reached into her pocket to retrieve an envelope that Claude had given her. At least she got the information she needed…. She propped herself up on the pillows behind her back as he returned, she was still very pale and definitely weak. She took the glass and slowly drank from it, she placed the envelope beside her. When he offered her the vial she nodded and took it from him. She opened it and took a small sip from it before closing it again and setting it on her nightstand with her glass of water. Her eyes turned to Gareth, “Would you stay in here tonight? The couch is fairly comfortable… I just don’t…” she trailed off, looking away. She didn’t want to admit she was scared, even though rationally she knew Claude had likely been executed for his actions, it had brought up memories from her past that she knew would only haunt her if she was alone that night. Gareth wanted to help, he would. After all, he had to obey whatever orders she'd give him anyway, as long as they weren't counterproductive to keeping her safe. He knew she was in a sad state of health, but there wasn't much he could do about it as a vampire. He could heal open wounds, bring her to safety, get rid of attackers, but as for something like this, it was simply a waiting game. As with whatever she might have going on mentally, he was an excellent listener. When she turned to look at him, his eyes were already cast slightly down, towards the bottom of the bed, quiet as she spoke. He waited until she finished speaking before answering,"Yes, Mistress, I will stay." One thing she might not have been prepared for was his steadfast dedication to his owner. He wouldn't sleep, not only because he was going to keep her safe, but also because he had less of a need for it. As a vampire, sleepless nights came natural to him. Yet, the offer of the couch didn't seem to do much for him. He stayed upright and standing a few feet away from her bed, within arms reach of the nightstand and the ewer, ready to serve. Clarissa slipped under the covers slowly and laid her head on her pillows. She sighed quietly as she settled her head on her pillows. She closed her eyes and attempted to sleep for a few minutes before opening her eyes again.“Gareth… please sit or something, there’s no way I can sleep with you standing over my bed like that…” she stated, rubbing her forehead. After that she closed her eyes again, curling up underneath the covers. She expected him to obey, as he always did even though his first instinct would be to stand guard over her. The rest of the night passed without incident, Clarissa slept restlessly, but she did not awake again until late the next morning. She immediately reached for the vial and took a sip from it as she sat up. She replaced the vial on the table before sitting silently for a minute before looking around for Gareth. Once she found him she smiled a tiny bit before starting to slip out of bed.“we should get you some blood… Wouldn’t want you to go hungry after you saved me, on your first day no less…” she stated as she walked a little wobbly to her wardrobe. He was silent, listening for the faintest sounds. Of course, he heard her heart beat and her breath, yet she didn't fall asleep as quickly as he'd imagined. When she requested he sits, he did so without hesitation, facing the doorway while he did so, hands on his lap. Her orders were to be followed, of course. Gareth may as well have been a statue that night, only blinking and never leaving his post until morning. He watched through his peripherals as she woke up, taking a drink before standing up and shaking making her way to the wardrobe." Mistress, I would like to apologize for not stopping Claude before he harmed you as he did. I should have deciphered his intentions before it was too late." Gareth said, standing up and bowing low, head coming down to her stomach height. This way, if she wanted to deliver any sort of punishment she could. He would not resist. The bow was meant to be a signal of submission as well as apology." A female vampire also wished to convey her apologies through me when you woke." Clarissa watched as he bowed, apologizing, she sighed quietly, “Oh do stand up, Gareth, it was my fault Gareth, I’m too reckless for my own good sometimes… Please don’t blame yourself” she stated before turning back to her wardrobe. She selected a fresh day dress and clean underthings.“Oh that must have been Rose… She’s one of the good ones… Though that’s what I thought of Claude until last night….” she said with a dry laugh.“If you don’t mind fetching breakfast, I’ll get dressed, and we can head out after I’ve eaten, alright? I promise we won’t go anywhere dangerous this time,” she stated as she began undressing from the clothing she had worn the night before. Once permitted he stood, glad that she didn't choose to administer punishment, even though he would have never admitted to such a thing. What happened last night with Claude was a mistake, one that he wouldn't allow to happen again. He watched when she went to the closet and selected clothes. She was to change, there in front of him? Those that didn't use him for sexual purposes usually didn't do such things, and he quickly averted his eyes when she began to undress." Yes mistress." Was Gareth's simple response before he left her to change alone, going to the kitchen. He hoped that her other servants already had breakfast prepared for his and her sake. He knew how to cook basic meals and how to aid those working in the kitchen but as to what his mistress would want, he was clueless. So when he got to the kitchen, he quickly approached one of the chefs and spoke." Mistress Clarissa has requested me to bring her breakfast." The chef, a large man, though no older than thirty was balding, looked up from the porridge he was eating and unlike the rest of Clarissa’s staff, he smiled.“Ah you must be Gareth, I’ve been expecting the Mistress to call down for breakfast. Has she recovered from last night’s unfortunate events? I sure hope so, she really must be more careful though… Perhaps you can encourage some sense into the lass… She hasn’t been the same since her parents died a few years back you know, then that bastard did rather a number on her…” He kept chattering, not even expecting responses from Gareth as he got up from his stool, gathered items from the pantry and began cooking, continuing to talk all the while. After about half an hour the chef had put together a hearty breakfast of omelet, bacon, toast and various fruit, along with a goblet of mulled wine.“There you go, make sure she eats it all, she’s far too skinny you know,” he said as he handed Gareth the tray.Meanwhile, Clarissa dressed in a soft blue dress with long sleeves and black lace details. She hadn’t thought much of dressing in front of Gareth, while she saw him as more than a slave she hadn’t thought much of modesty in front of him. Well, it wasn’t like he was going to ogle her like most men or even other vampires… She almost wished she could get more of a reaction from him other than just following her wishes (most of them) and protecting her.(sorry I haven't replied for a long time)

Bound by Blood (Iso and Mr Badguy)|rating:3.0

Multiverse Threat Elimination Force (RedEve, Crisis)

The year is 2148. Humanity's conquests now stretch from the microscopic world of viruses and illness, to the most remote place in the vastness of space. Two hundred years of unparalleled advancement gave us the ultimate Utopia: over conflicts, wars and barriers, we've triumphed. But this world, the world we live in, is in danger, as science has discovered our universe is not unique. Countless others coexist, many of them marvelous and hostile, at a small distance for those with the means to cross it. Against the continuous menace of the unthinkable and the unknown, the Multiverse Threat Elimination Force was formed. A military force like no other, trained and equipped to face the impossible, those men and women watch the continuity of the multiverse, to identify and eradicate the menaces that could spell humanity's doom, before it is too late. This one is a world of magic. For millennia, wizards have molded it by their wishes, unrivaled and unstoppable. Beings of incredible power and despotic authority, they were destined to clash in the most terrible of wars, the one true War, the war to shape the very nature of Earth as reality itself fractured and cracked under pressure. But even the War ended long ago. Now, only one single wizard remains alive: Morpheus VOR, the last of the reality weavers and, with no doubt, the most powerful of all them. When your power has no limits, when every dream is at hand, and you have no competition to fight for them, what do you do? Morpheus claimed himself King over Kings and only God under the sun, owner of everything and everybody. Under his iron rule, countries could be born or destroyed in a whim. But time made him corrupt, immoral, tyrannical. People experienced fear, pain and death, under an immortal oppressor forever crushing all hopes. But even that came to an end when the wizard, no longer entertained with the struggles of his world, retired far into the deeps of his dungeon, under the mantle of those who dwell in the dark. Many tried to follow, only to find death and despair against horrors beyond the imagination. What he does there, nobody knows. But survivors tremble for the day when Morpheus VOR, the dark God under the sun, raises again to crush this world... or any other one. The Creature, as he had no other name now, flexed his muscles in anticipation. He was born as a being of power and beauty, a fighter, a gladiator destined to wander halls of stone and floors of marble. But that was long ago, as he lived now like the other darkness inhabitants, as hunter and prey, far away in the hostile caves of the deepest of the undergrounds. As an animal. As an outcast. But the hunt today would give him no fruit, as an interruption made his prey flee away with all his hope. A light. Unnatural, bright as a full moon over the seas, pulsing strongly from the broken passages of the ruins nearby. What could that be? Visitors, strangers to this land, ignorant of the turmoil they were creating. Like a creature of the dungeon, he never had any need for light, as neither did any of the others. Hunters would be already closing on their prey, crawling under the shadows, impatient to be the first one to strike, or the one to give the killing blow. But the light moved away, rushing, agitated. A wounded prey? Or one in fear, perhaps. Hundreds of years of experience made him an expert at this game. So he watched, and listened. He became aware of at least a dozen hunters, with more to come. But they were too eager, too noisy. With no doubt, some hunters were already death, while some prey had already been taken. Who wields that light? An adventurer, perhaps? Who could be bold enough, strong enough to make this far into the deep? The Creature struggled with sentiments from other era long time past. Curiosity... Expectation... And more. A decision was made. He would get closer to this one, at least to watch, and listen. The operation had been more than a disaster. Intelligence reports in the multiverse were never entirely trustworthy, but this... They expected a medieval age civilization, dark ages weaponry and natural beasts. Caution was advised, as their target was a reality bender, people unbound by the physics laws of our version of the Universe. Natural leaders and kings, they had usually some power out of the ordinary: mind reading, fire control, perhaps. But with their unpredictable abilities, opening rifts in the multiverse was a distinct possibility. They were obvious targets for MTBF, not only to protect our world, but also for the shake of their own one. So, after the target was located in an isolated complex deep underground, a small team was deployed directly into the facility, with clear instructions: survey the area, locate the target, terminate him and go back home. A simple, clean stealth operation, easy as pie compared to typical MTBF issues. They never expected a welcome in fire. But as soon as they stepped into the brave new world, all hell broke loose. Lieutenant Lorna Anoxic was now the only teammate alive, and after seeing every one of her mates fall under the horrors of those... creatures that shouldn't exist, her situation was not much better than death itself. The MTBF training was clear: under dire circumstances, you have three priorities: your life, your teammates, and your MTU, the travel unit that will get you back to home in mere seconds. Each unit was expensive as a small country and had to be configured -made- specifically for the owner. No replacement was possible. That reality weighted heavily as her MTU was now trashed beyond all repair, destroyed by a single claw swipe powerful enough to rip through metal and flesh. Mere inches more, and her life could have been taken too. How could this be possible? They looked barely human, those things, until at close range could you see their grotesque animal features and their savage, bloody intent. How could those bodies be capable of sustaining one, even several shoots from a modern weapon? Some of the creatures would still be after her for sure, perhaps at some distance beyond the outer limits of her lantern's light. She still had her side weapon, plenty of ammo, and her survival equipment intact. Her desperate escape pushed her towards the stone ruins of an ancient underground courtyard carved inside a natural cavern, with many passages opening in several directions and the uninviting, cold waters of a small underground lake to the side. Perhaps the debris could provide some hiding spot, or some defense? Lorna leapt over the ruined remains of what was once a large brick wall. No doubt this courtyard had seen better days, and the ruins were a reminder of that time. She could hear the hurried steps of her foes nearing her position, but she had enough time to take inventory of the situation. With the MTU out of commission, there was no reason for her to keep her the harness that attached it to her torso on any longer. She unclipped the lock at her navel and slipped out of the carbon based Coors. With the MTU destroyed, any chance of getting her trans-dimensional communicator to work was also shattered, so she tossed the device as well. No use in dragging around worthless equipment when the aim was to be as quick and mobile as possible. She broke a chemical flare and soon the courtyard was illuminated in a bright, yellow light. These were nothing like the flares used in the early 21st century. Just one of these could last for days, and she had a pack of a dozen in her backpack. At least she wouldn’t be confined to the darkness any time soon. The flare illuminated the hallway she had come down enough for her to spot the shadowy figures that were nearing her position. She drew her side-arm and aimed a few incendiary rounds at the leader of the pack. A wolf-like howl that cut through the bone clattered through the corridor as her bullets made impact. The huge frame of the beast was toppled over and remained immobile. Good, at least the things weren’t completely invulnerable. The apparent death of their leader made the rest of the pack hesitate for a moment, which was Lorna’s cue. She grabbed her backpack and raced across the courtyard. She took the exit furthest removed from the shaft the monsters were attacking her from. Furthermore, she illuminated the darkness in front of her with her yellowy flare, whilst keeping her side-arm at the ready for whatever dangers might emerge. Without her MTU, her options were limited. Her entire team was gone. There was no way to contact her own universe. There was no way back, and her food and ammo was limited. Once they ran out, her prospects of surviving in this hostile world were not good. Eventually the corridor she was racing down widened and the ceiling slowly raised until she arrived in a gigantic room. She could not see the other side because her flare only illuminated that much, but the space measured at least several hundred yards across and the ceiling hung 200 feet above her. Suddenly she saw the large frame of a figure moving against the rocky cavern wall. There were no friendlies left in this world, so she shot a few rounds in the general direction of the motion she had observed.“Who is there?” The Creature was still approaching the courtyard, all senses opened to the motions of the death dance soon to develop there, when the sun itself manifested. His eyes burned with the unexpected pain, his body trembling in fear of the unknown. Then, the sound of thunder, the wail of death, the unmistakable scent of flesh in fire... Wizardry. This was no easy prey. As his eyes slowly adjusted and his spirit recovered, he surveyed the surroundings. An alpha male was dead, and the pack howled in confusion, spiraling around the mark, hesitant. A good move, wizard, a good move... He was able to see the figure for an eye-blink, a red and white blur racing towards the darkness, the graceful, athletic shape of a woman with the powers of the sun at her command. His interest peaked as forgotten feelings started to rumble in his stomach. This was... Unexpected. He would need a closer look. But, what is she doing? That way would lead her to sure death, the inhabitants of the cavern not to be disturbed. Another decision was made. The Creature raced through forgotten vents and cracks, shortcutting through the darkness. In the center of the cavern, the woman was standing proud, alerted, unaware. His eyes focused on her figure, wondering about her confident, remarkable expression. She is not only a wizard, he thought, but a warrior too. That was the determination of one who has faced death before. Perhaps... But the Creature had been betrayed by his own mumblings, as his silhouette was exposed to the far-reaching light. Clumsy. The woman was aware of his presence, while still ignorant of the greater danger. Incompetent. He had made himself a target, as he could hear the cracks of magic and bursts of fire all over the wall behind him. Idiot. One blast vibrated right into his right arm and was followed by a sudden sting and severe pain he couldn't understand. But even more painful were the echoes of human words, as that made him aware of a humanity long ago forgotten... Who is there... He was aware of the meaning, even when it has been a hundred years since he had to use a voice of his own. And he was surprised to hear himself one more time." Wizard! Above you!" It was a long time ago when he discovered the cave of the lurkers, the flying bat-like creatures who hide in stalactites and roofs, mimicking their form and color, only to silently descent on their prey, their crude spears carrying a deadly dose of paralyzing venom. He could only hope the wizard could be fast enough, and her magic powerful enough, to drive back the three of them who were already closing on her and readying for the attack. To her great surprise, an answer does come to her question. Not only that, but it is one she understands. Above her? Just in time, she turns her gaze to the ceiling. Three bat-lick silhouettes are descended upon her position. A barrage of fire from her blaster pistol fells two of them. Horrific shrieks of pain accompany their final descent, before the two monsters crash into the cavern floor a few dozen feet away from her position. The third narrowly evades her fire. Suddenly she notices an object detach itself from her flying foe, and she recognizes the threat and rolls out of the way as a crudely constructed wooden spear clatters onto the granite. She shoots another few rounds in the general direction of the bat-like monster, not truly expecting to hit her target, but giving it a reason to stay away. She paces back towards where she came from. The last thing she needed were airborne foes. She turned her attention towards the wall where the warning had come from. Who on earth had called out to her? And what was he doing out here? There was no record of any prior human missions to this universe. Who-ever or whatever was out there was no human. Yet there was no idea to assume any friendlies would be down here, let alone creatures she could communicate with. She slowed down again once she had convinced herself there was enough room between her and the large chamber. The creatures likely couldn’t safely fly within such a narrow corridor. But the pack that was hunting her just moments before was likely close to where she was headed next. And she couldn’t shake the feeling that whatever creature had warned her about the bat monsters was still close by and observing her…“If you’re out there than show yourself! I won’t shoot!” She turned around holding the flare in front of her, illuminate the narrow passage. To add extra effect to her words, she holstered her side-arm and held up her free hand in the air.“See? I put away my weapon.” And then the Creature, fighting his own instincts and fears, stepped into the light. He was a giant, taller than the tallest man, yet still a man in form and proportion. With a mighty bulk of muscle and strength, arms to crush the stone, legs to leap the waters, a skin burnished by hundreds of years of battle, he was certainly imposing, but out-of-place in some way. His armor was ragged and torn loose, and the great axe at his back would better fit a free warrior of the plains, instead of a native of the dark and treacherous deeps. As the shadows leaned back, the head became visible, and it was one of a bull and not a man, with deep scouting eyes and two proud, upright horns." Not here", said the Minotaur. He pointed at the entrance with an arm soaked in blood." The hunters are coming. Come with me. Or die." And with that, the figure turned his back and started to move fast towards crevices and fissures almost invisible to the untrained eye, his destination unknown. His intentions were unclear, perhaps even to him, but there was a perceptible uneasiness, some shoddy manners, in the way he has been looking at her for those few moments under the light. But then, there were those muffled sounds starting to echo in the walls of the cavern, growls and barks and many animal steps over the cavernous floor. They were coming. That much was certain. Lorna had the fight the urge to either run or just shoot the Minotaur when he stepped into the light. His frame was huge and bulking, his muscles impressive and his head fearsome. The blood on his arm suggested that one of her shots had hit its target, yet now the creature was offering its help to her again? As he disappeared in the same direction he had emerged from, the sound of the pack nearing her position took the forefront in her mind again. Whatever she decided to do, she couldn’t possibly stay here. Trying to fight the pack at close quarters within the confines of the narrow corridor equaled suicide. She hesitated, but only for a few seconds, and then disappeared herself into the shadows where the bull-man had moved towards. She threw her flare deeper into the cavern, hoping that the light would distract the predators and tried to follow the figure in front of her, allowing her eyes to adapt to the darkness as well as they could. The very dim light combined with the sounds of his steps in front of her was just enough for her to follow him. She wasn’t sure this wasn’t a trap either… even though the Minotaur didn’t look like he would need a trap if he wanted to dispose of her. He had ample opportunity to do so whilst she was dealing with the Bat-creatures attack, after all. Eventually the narrow passage he leads her through – it was so confined a space she wondered how the giant managed to fit his frame - opened up slightly. They arrived in a slightly bigger space, though still no more than a large room. Three lit torches were stuck in the cavern wall. On the floor near the fire was a pile of animal pelts, and a series of pots and jugs that stood littered around the room. Could this be the Minotaur’s camp? Or one of them, at least… She followed. Smart. After the woman was safe inside the alcove with him, the Minotaur moved to push a massive rock, far too heavy for any human being to even bulge it, until it completely sealed the only entrance. The whole time, the pain in his right arm was excruciating. Ignore it." This will keep them out." He approached with an inquisitive look, close enough that his animal-like breathing, hot but odorless, would make her squint. This wizard commands the powers of light and fire. She could kill me now, with a word or spell, this woman who raises over hunters and lurkers and who travels the deeps unaided. Yet she spoke of weapons." Who are you, wizard?", said the Minotaur." Who are you, and what do you seek here, in the darkness, and below?" Words came with great weight, rusty after a century with no need for words. He looked at her, and marveled at the combination of beauty and strength, at her alien scent and the strangest of clothing. He was overwhelmed by so many feelings, many of them human-like, a hundred years ago forgotten. Now, he wanted to know. He wanted to know where was she from, what was the secret beyond those tools and magic, he wanted to know the meaning of every one of those symbols she was wearing. He wanted to see everything under those clothes. Careful. This rose has thorns, and those thorns bring death. Ask. Learn. Wait. After closing off the passage to the room and effectively trapping her inside the alcove with her, the Minotaur returned to her. Now that she had the time to observe him under the light, she noticed that his chest was covered in battle-scars. Clearly this being had seen its share of violence, yet its current stance wasn’t really threatening. Even though it towered above her, and she could feel its warm breath on her skin. When he started talking again to ask question, she took a moment or two to recover her breath before she answered. “I am not a wizard… I don’t get where you got that idea from. My name is Lieutenant Lorna Anoxic. 1st Corp, 3rd Brigade, 4th Regiment, 2nd Battalion. Alpha unit. The rest of my squad got killed right after we arrived here. Intelligence seriously underestimated the threat level this universe poses, but what else is new…” She eyed the beast more closely. Even though his speech was halted and hesitant, he was quite easy to understand, and it seemed like he understood most of what she was telling him as well.“I’m here because my superiors sent me here. There’s supposedly a class 4 Magic-wielder down here that could potentially pose a threat to our world. Our mission was to take him out. I guess that is still my mission… though if I carry it out, I’ll be stuck here forever…” Lorna hadn’t really afforded herself the time to consider the consequences of the destruction of her MTU. But it was true… Alpha unit would be presumed destroyed by her superiors if they did not call in at the pre-arranged times. They would simply send in another unit if the threat was deemed serious enough. But that might take years, perhaps even decades, and even if they came, it was unlikely they would look for any survivors from the original team.“Anyway, I’ve answered enough questions… how about you answer some? Just who are you? And how come you know my language? Most of the bugs down here seem to be low-intelligence life-forms. You seem… out of place.” She eyed the red liquid dripping from his upper arm.“You might want to look at that wound. It’ll bleed until the bullet is removed.” The beast pondered every word, circling around her, uneasy." I am...". Perhaps there was once a name, hidden forever in some obscure corner of his mind? He couldn't recall." I have no name. I simply am. Furthermore, I am the Minotaur, Lieutenant Lorna Anoxic, and I was made into existence with no need to learn. Morpheus VOR was my master and creator." The name. He never believed he would speak the name again. The name brought far more pain than the bleeding in his arm." He saw that I could speak to anyone and understand any and all words. Yet you speak of things that make little sense to me." She said to be a warrior, but her actions were wizard-like. What kind of warrior wields such power?" Yes. I'm out of my place. Hundreds of years ago, I left my master to wander the darkness in freedom, never to return." Actually, he had only vague memories of the days before he left, only some fragments of bright places and blood in his weapon, but for some reason he knew those were moments he didn't want to recall." The price of my freedom is seclusion, or death. My existence is hidden because it is unimportant and insignificant to him." He waited for some time, carefully weighting the next few words." Now, you spoke of a mission. Your foe is a wizard, you say, when there is only one wizard. Morpheus, my master, lives in the deepest halls of the dungeon, well below. You won't reach him. You can't kill him. Furthermore, you wield great power, but your brothers and sisters likely wielded it too, and they lie dead in passages nearby." That wound would need to be taken care of. He didn't like to waste the little healing powder he had, but this was no hunting scratch. Perhaps unhappy with the strange visitor knowing that much about those resources, he reached for the small bag, hidden behind some rocks. He expertly removed what remained of the top of his armor, fully revealing a powerful torso devoid of animal features but heavily tampered by countless marks of battle." Desist. Hide. Survive. Chances are your presence, unannounced and unexpected, is still unnoticed by him. Perhaps you can live, if you bring no attention to yourself, Lieutenant Lorna Anoxic. Perhaps." As he applied some of the powder to his arm and torso, it mutated into an oily substance. Seconds later there was no wound, and most of the scratches were gone with it. Not much left... Only one time more, or perhaps two. Had to be more careful. “You don’t have to keep on calling me Lieutenant Lorna Anoxic. Just ‘Lorna’ will do just fine.” She looked at him in amazement when he pulled the armor off his body. First at the muscular torso it revealed… And then at the powder that almost instantly healed his wound.“That’s an impressive little trick… Our doctors would need hours to treat that wound… The round is designed so it keeps on doing damage even after making impact.” She took a closer look at the wound and noticed it had disappeared completely, apart from a night not noticeable little scar. “That’s a mighty impressive feat for a man who thinks I’m the Wizard… but speaking of your wizard, did you just say this… Morpheus VOR created you? If that is the case, then why are you helping me? I just told you my mission is to eliminate him…” She took a step back. Perhaps the Minotaur was giving her a false sense of security before he disposed of her. Or perhaps he enjoyed toying with his victims first?“I cannot just forget about my mission. If I don’t carry it out, they will eventually send another team. I cannot just hide in the shadows knowing someone else will be sent to do my work for me.” She shook her head.“But you said you knew where he lived. Does this mean you can take me there? If you can, I should be able to handle the rest. He’s not the first Magic-wielder we’d put down. They all seem to think they are invincible, but a few well-aimed incendiary rounds put them down as well as it does any other living creature…” She tapped on her holstered side-arm for extra effect. She looked up at the hulking man-beast. He had just told her he had been alone for an eternity after turning his back on his master. Even if he was telling the truth, and he was truly free of the Wizard’s control, that long period of isolation would have wreaked havoc on his mind. Even if a Minotaur mind was sturdier than a human one. And there was something about the way he was quietly observing her that was slightly unsettling. Beyond the mere fact of being locked in a cave with a Minotaur… The Minotaur laughed, hard and loud, and his laugh was like a cascade of rocks falling down the mountain hillside." You amaze me. You understand so little, even when you can do so much. Ah... But nobody has ever called me that. For that much, I'm grateful... Lorna." She called he a man. But he was no man. Has he has never been a man? Hasn't he?" Yes, I did help you before, and I listen to your words now, even when you speak heresy. Yes, I'm my master's creature. His word was burned in my soul with the very act of my creation. Why am I helping you? Because he gave me life, and with life, I have the greatest power of all powers." As he talked, something was changing in the Minotaur, as his voice had more depth, and his figured looked bigger and stronger as he came close to Lorna." Even here and now, far from his reach, his command burns, the urges to do his will instead of mine hurting more than any wound I've ever had." His arm raised to grab her one, a warm grip harder than the hardest of steels." And what is the nature of his command? Do you know it? Defeat his enemies, humiliate them, take them against their will, and finally drink their blood and eat their flesh." His eyes were on fire, his expression darker and menacing... But as fast as it started, it ended. The tension diminished, his grip faltered, and he finally stepped back." No. Against that urge, I say no. This is my decision, the hardest possible, and one I have to make every walking moment of my life. Saying no is my only power. The one power that helps me be... a man." Now the Minotaur moved away from her, afraid of having shown a part of him that should have been hidden forever. Why did he just do that? Why did he reveal his bestial nature? For a short while he meditated, unsure, hesitant about the direction to make. He considered his options, and examined the nature of the woman in front of him. Her weapon works at the distance, like a spear. It hurts over time, like venom. It can kill a wizard, or a hunter, or a Minotaur. She depends on her weapon. Without her weapon, she is weak. After a short while, he spoke again." I know the way to my master's whereabouts. I've been there once and was able to avoid the horrors who dwell there. Furthermore, I can help you. But I won't." Lorna involuntarily jumped slightly into the air from the surprise when the Minotaur's bouldering laugh filled the small space. She was soon brought back to earth as the Minotaur’s demeanor seemed to change. His words got more angry, his frame seemed to grow and at a speed that belied his size, his arm flashed forward and locked her biceps in a vice-like grip. Her free arm rushed for her holstered weapon, but she did not draw it yet. Yet nearly as quickly as he had seemingly lost his temper, he regained control of himself and let go of her arm. She rubbed the sore spot where his muscular fingers had wrapped themselves around her flesh. She Minotaur put some distance between himself and her, seemingly ashamed of what had just happened? He remained quiet for a while, giving Lorna the time to look around the room for a bit. The passageway he had rolled the rock in front indeed seemed to be the only way in or out. She could never hope to roll it out of the way by herself, but one of the explosive charges in her backpack could reduce it to a pile or rubble… She was snapped out of her own pondering when he started talking again. So he did know where his former master was hiding! “I’m sorry, but that’s not good enough for me… I need to finish my mission, and since you seem to be the only thing in here that has any idea about the Wizard’s whereabouts, you are going to help me… I don’t understand why you still feel the need to defend him, if his grasp on your will is still so strong. If I kill him for you, you will truly be free…” She wasn’t sure if her reasoning would appeal to the Minotaur. If it even made sense to him. But he had already turned his back on his master by no longer doing his bidding. What she was proposing was just taking things one step further…MTBF mission control Merritt Island, Florida“It’s been confirmed Commander Cowen. Team Alpha is gone. They missed their last two status reports. If even one of them was still alive, he or she would have called in by now.” McOwen, the kind of gray iron-eater whose true age was impossible to guess looked up from his status reports and moved to his subordinates’ station.“What class of mission were they on?” “Class 4, Commander. Low-level magical threat. The probability of the threat materializing was 0.05%.” McOwen quickly went over the details of the mission. “0.05%? Why on earth was an op greenlighted? We just wasted an entire squad on that?” He frowned as he went over the list of squad members. “13 man squad. All experienced. And you’re telling me all of them were gone within four hours of arriving there?” He whistled in surprise and admiration. Whatever was out there didn’t fool around.“Well I’m going to reprioritize this op. We shouldn’t waste our resources on Class 4 threats when we barely have the manpower to handle all Class 1s. Level Delta1 priority. And make sure the families of Alpha squad are informed…” 1 Delta priority is the lowest level. This guarantees that mission control won't send another team for at least several years, possibly even decades. The Minotaur was surprised by the woman's commanding attitude, and her commitment to this... mission. He was well aware of the swift movement of her hand in reach of the weapon when he had lost his temper mere moments ago, and the inquisitive behavior in which she studied every corner of the room, her eyes focused on the huge boulder blocking the entrance. She is a fine warrior, this one. You have an exit plan already, do you? Are you locked here with me, or it is me who is locked here with you? This weapon that pierces through flesh and bone, their arrows unseen, is not the only trick at your disposal, isn't it? And this idea... Would killing the master free him at last? Can it be possible? He has just... never considered it. The mere idea was injurious. But he could see the logic in the proposition." You understand so little... Killing him? You come here ignoring everything about the dungeon and the dangers below. You marvel at this powder, a mere trinket that my master created with no effort, failing to realize the true extends of his reach. Lorna, this is a fight you will... lose." The tone was now different, as if for a small moment the idea of losing his new companionship would frighten the beast even more than his master's punishment. He suddenly got closer and reached for both her shoulders in a move that meant no harm." What other weapons do you have at your disposal, Lorna the warrior? Can you move in the darkness, breath under the waters, defeat a pack of creatures stronger than me? You'll need those abilities, and more. And why? Why is this mission so important to you? What are you willing to lose? Your life? More?" She knew so little... As they would get closer and closer, the master's command will grow stronger. At which point would he lose the grasp on his will, he didn't know. But he would. Are you prepared, warrior, to accept a companion who will turn into your greatest foe at the most unexpected time? She shook her head. “Your master isn’t the first Wizard we have put down. Even though the lair he is hiding in seems to hold more dangers than usual, I have no doubt that he is as mortal as any other creature down here.” She tapped on her side-arm.“This is the only weapon I’ll need, if you can get me close enough to him. The problem isn’t disposing of him, it’s finding him. But you could solve that problem for me.” She eyed him curiously when he put his hands on her shoulders.“You confuse me, Minotaur. Why on earth did you rescue me if not to help me? You did not honestly expect me to remain in this cave with you when I still have a job to do? As for why it’s so important to me… if I don’t do the job, someone else will eventually be sent down here to do it in my place. I’d rather not see us losing any more soldiers in this place, not when I can do the job for them.” And besides, it’s not like I have many options, she thought. She was effectively stuck in this universe. She wasn’t about to count the years until she perished knowing that her target was close by. The MTBF had never recruited extra-universal allies. It was against policy. But the Minotaur was a special case. She had no hope of completing the mission without him. And it wasn’t as if she was ever going to face court-martial over her actions here. “Look, I’m going to do this, with or without your help. So the decision is really yours to make, not mine. Are you going to help me or not? If not, then I’ve wasted enough time here… So you can move that large rock out of the way, and I’ll go find your Master on my own.” She shook her shoulders loose from his hands and turned away from the creature. “So what’ll it be?” Waiting for his response, she had some time to mull a few things over. Like the fact he mentioned that the magical healing powder was also the Wizard’s creation. Perhaps the Minotaur was right after all… Most of the mages they had faced so far had been pretty unimpressive. Glorified illusionists, some of them. This one might be different… You did not expect her to remain in this cave with you, did you? The years of survival, alone in the vastness of the deeps, weighted so heavily... Yes. Yes, of course he did. With every ounce of his being. But this was not to be. Again, a decision was made. The Minotaur reached for the scraps of armor and adjusted them again to his torso." Very well.", said the Minotaur." We will depart. I will give you just two warnings." He moved to the door, and he grabbed again the huge rock between his powerful arms." First, my question was not in vain. That light of yours is a beacon for trouble. We travel in the darkness, or not at all. If you are blind with no light, a solution can be arranged." With small effort, the impressive boulder rolled again, the uninviting darkness outside offering a gaping contrast against the warming lights of the torches inside." Second, you will keep an eye open at all times. At some point, when we get closer to my master, my strength will flatten, my resolve will fall, and I will no longer be able to force my purpose against his one. No longer your guide and aid, I'll be no different from the creatures you are going to meet in the deeps and below. When this happens, and it will happen, you will kill me immediately and without hesitation. Understood?" And still waiting for the response, the Minotaur stepped out into the darkness, his senses alerted, his muscles tense, his mind wandering around passages and ways long ago travelled and long ago forgotten. This is my last trip, the one that can end only in death of body or mind. Hundreds of years of penitence, sacrificed in an instant by the smell of a woman. Darkness, here I come... Lorna was honestly surprised when the Minotaur agreed to become her guide and companion. When she had put the question to him, she had expected his loyalty to his former Master to outweigh his desire to help her. She was pleasantly surprised that was not the case. After he had removed the boulder and stepped back into the darkness of the maze, she made sure to follow him closely. Her eyes were just strong enough to pick up his figure as long as she kept herself only a few feet behind him. As they were walking in near unison, she answered his questions. “I’ll trust you to be my eyes… If the need arises, I’ll revert to my flares once we get close enough to your master. As for your second request… I will not hesitate to put you down should, you become a threat. Our arrangement changes nothing. You were a threat just moments ago and I wounded you… Would have likely killed you had I am better shot. So you need not worry about my resolve.” She was surprised at the speed in which the large creature moved through the caverns, seemingly not even needing to see where he was going but instead working on memory alone. Even if this was some elaborate trap on the Wizard’s behalf, the Minotaur would get her closer to him than she could ever manage on her own. She did however wonder why he would help her. Unless he truly believed that killing the wizard would free him from his magical grasp? The corridors he leads her through were quiet. Large spiderwebs suggested that some hadn’t been used in quite a while. Likely the creature was leading her through paths he knew were rarely occupied by critters. Good, it would speed their chase up… The quiet between the two of them gave her opportunity to think. What would she do if she succeeded? However unlikely that possibility was, she would then be stuck in a weird world with no way back home. And if the Minotaur did perish before she reached the Wizard, without any friends either. She shook her head. There was no point in worrying about that now. She took a swig off her water bottle and upped her own pace to keep up with the ever more quickly moving Minotaur.“Hold up, I can’t keep up.” There was no response. The huge shadow had been moving at a fast pace mere feet in front of her, but now he was nowhere to be seen. Perhaps Lorna took the wrong corner, just a few corridors back? Perhaps everything has been an elaborate trap to lure her here? She had noticed the passages they were traveling were not only devoid of creatures, but not entirely devoid of light, too. Natural crystal formations, strange pools, organic fire sources and other phenomena provided just the minimal awareness she had needed to just follow the huge creature. Now, however, light was much harder to be found, as her eyes struggled to make sense of every black outline mere steps in front of her. Perhaps a flare would clear up her situation? She was now sure to hear the sounds of many steps over the rock. Suddenly, a form moved closer to her, over the nearest wall. A spider. A monster. With a body huger than a baby and hairy legs many feet long, the dreadful creature was horribly close to her. Just how many will follow? The moment she realized the Minotaur was no longer there, she knew it was a trap. Of course, it was a trap. Why else would any creature she found down here be willing to help her. She drew her blaster pistol and put a round in the nearest spider. It exploded into countless pieces, some of its green blood splattering onto her shirt. The problem wasn’t disposing of the critters, but rather locating them. The Minotaur had warned her about the light. If she lit another flare, it would only attract more enemies. Of course, she could hardly fight off the spiders if she couldn’t see half of them. Another one emerged right in front of her feet, just in time for her to unload another round into it. The blast of her fire briefly illuminated the corridor. In the flash of light, she could see dozens of the spiders near her position. The blaster was no good against that many foes. She unhooked a small cylinder shaped object from her belt and pressed the button at the top. It started giving up a low beeping sound that ever increased in frequency. She held it in her hands for a few seconds, then rolled it in front of her towards the nearing spiders. Lorna then traced her steps back to a side-corridor she had noticed a few dozen feet back. Just as she found it and dove into it, the bright flash of light illuminated the entire hallway. The blast of the thermal grenade gave off the brightest and purest of light as it superheated the immediate blast radius to temperatures well over 3000 degrees. Once the blast subsided, nothing was left of the spiders, nor anything else living or dead that might have occupied the corridor. She was left panting against the wall of the small alcove she had used as cover.“You’re a damn fool Anoxic. You trusted the first extra-universal being you encounter, like some rank amateur.” She chastised herself for being so gullible. There was a ban on even trying to communicate with the creatures they met outside their own universe for a reason. She couldn’t have ignored that edict anymore had she tried. And she had gotten the results she deserved... The Minotaur was in severe pain. The vine constricted his throat with out world strength, both his hands not mighty enough to ease the pressure. He was being hanged, and pulled up and up, towards the death above. Breathing was out of the question, and his vision was already becoming fuzzy and blurred. How easily had he being caught with such an obvious, predictable trap, his mind clouded by the search of his target and the protection of his partner. Careless. Myopic. Idiot. His captor was only too happy to fly in circles around his twisting body, tormenting him. The demons was built to tease and torture the will of men, a voluptuous body scantily clad in bright and gold pieces of fine linen. But the looks deceived: she was a manipulator and a controller, born with the power to direct most of the lesser beasts in the dungeon." Hmmmm... So many years in waiting, Minotaur, so many years...", said the demons." Oh, but you had to bring company, my dear? TSK, TSK, TSK... No good, no good..." His entrails were on fire. Come closer." Can you sense her, down below? So helpless and fragile... Do you sense my minions closing on her, hmm mm?" Come closer, you slut. But she was out of reach. And, as his strength was fading, the burden in his neck increased. Such a failure, an utterly and shameless failure... But then, thunder rode over the very foundations of stone, as an explosion down below shattered the cavern, the walls itself rippling with the waves of burning chaos. Hellfire extended over the corridors below, not close enough to reach them, but the agitation had made the demons loss her grip and glide carelessly into his reach. The rose has thorns, whore. And you're mine now. The movement was so swift and agile, any untrained eye would have great difficulty making sense on what just happened in a blink. The Minotaur's hand had lowered, taken a dagger well hidden in his armor's belt, and in a single and clean swipe, made short story of both the vine over him and his captor's throat. The fall was long and not without pain, but much preferable to death. The demons' body, now lifeless and badly articulated, much like a broken toy, dropped nearby. Excellent. Finally, the very thing I was looking for. But then, a realization came to him. His companion was nearby, alone and lost. She was victorious over the black spiders, but she had no means to know about the shadow lizards who had been tracking them for an hour or more. Retreating back, she probably had run right into their clutches. The insidious, bloodthirsty creatures had the means to become invisible to the human eye. Lorna was in grave danger. She had to be warned. Against better sense, he raised his voice, shouted a warning, an instruction, a plea, but... Nothing came. He had lost his voice, his throat crushed, perhaps beyond repair. Hopeless, he took the dead body with him, and raced towards the darkness. By the time Lorna figured out something was awry, it was already too late. Still hiding in her alcove, trying to regain her breath and deciding what to do next, she had not noticed the half a dozen new foes who had quickly closed on her position. Only when a scaled arm was wrapped around her waist did she realize something was awry. He weights was lifted off the floor, and she could feel herself being carried away. When she looked down at the limb that was supposedly holding her, she saw nothing, yet she could feel the pattern of scales with her hands ran over the invisible arm.“Let me go… whatever foul creature you might be!” She decided that pleading with the thing was of little use, so her hand went for her holster. She pulled out her blaster and aimed a shot at where she wagered the creatures head would be. An animalistic growl let her know her aim had been true, and her bum landed on the cavern floor with a loud thud. “Ouch…” Now that the Lizard was dead, his skin became visible again. He was nearly 7 feet tall and had dark green skin and yellowy eyes. She aimed a few blind shots into the corridor ahead of her, assuming that more lizards would be around. Suddenly, the weapon was knocked out of her hands by an invisible arm and a second later she was pinned against the wall by the neck, her legs left dangling about a foot from the floor. This lizard likely had lost patience with her. Wherever they were taking her before, they now deemed her too much trouble after she had killed their companion. Her blaster pistol was several feet away, on the ground. There was no way of reaching it. She reached down as far as she could manage with her left hand and found the handle of her the knife she had sheathed to her left thigh. She drew the weapon and blindly stabbed the lizard in the arm. Another horrific shriek of pain as his arm became visible, and he dropped her to the floor. She lashed out again with the knife, narrowly missing the lizard, who responded by kicking her in the chest. She lost her balance and landed on her back… Now she could feel two new sets of lizard hands on her shoulders, keeping her pinned down on the floor. Two more trapped her ankles and effectively trapped her in place. All the while, the wounded Lizard, whose bleeding arm was the only visible part on any of her opponents, kept getting nearer and nearer, until she could feel his rancid breath on her face… But then, color started to appear where there was nothing, as more and more skin of this abominable attacker became visible. In a mere second, the weightless, beheaded corpse crumbled horribly and fell in disorder, some bright chunk of metal raised behind him. The great axe, and its wielder, had been strangely silent, his arrival unnoticed by the monsters. The Minotaur finished the swing as he scanned the situation. Two more Lizards were holding the woman. Four were closing on him from the outside. They had the terrain advantage, as his axe and his body would move awkwardly in the tiny closed space. Each lizard had the strength of several men, claws able to cut stone and metal, and fought at close quarters with unnatural, eerie coordination. He was able to see them. They would have no chance. This is not a fight. This is an execution. Watching him fight was like watching a master dance after one hundred years of practice. No movement was spared, nothing was random, every fluid motion connected to the next one in a delightful expression of blood and death. As soon as everything started, it ended, no more energy expended than the one on a twirl and a pair of strikes. All six lizards were dead. The Minotaur hurried to Lorna's side, offering her a hand." I'm sorry." The voice was almost inaudible, a mere murmur was a grave and powerful voice had been." I got... delayed." Only then he remembered about the body he was still carrying around, so he just dropped it to the floor with a quite unceremonious nod. With half a dozen dead lizards littered around her, Lorna accepted the extended hand as the Minotaur helped her to her feet. She sheathed her knife and look around the cavern floor until she found her blaster pistol.“You got delayed? More like you left me behind to die…” She holstered the blaster pistol. It was no use anyway. She had been no match for the six Lizard men with it, and the Minotaur had just disposed of all of them with ease. This close to him, she might get a single shot off, but if that wasn’t lethal, he’d make short work of her. She wiped some of the green lizard blood off her face and then turned her attention to the demons’ body.“Who or what is that thing?” She could recognize the soft curves of a female form, but it was clear that she was not truly human.“Is she what caused the delay? And what happened to your voice?” She wasn’t sure what to make of the Minotaur. He had just saved her life, no doubt about that. But would her life have been in peril in the first place had it not been for him?“Next time we walk into a hornet’s nest, it might be nice to get some sort of warning from you. You know, instead of having to fend for myself in the dark.” Her tone was sarcastic, but she realized that aspect of her reply would likely be lost on the Minotaur. She dug into one of the back poaches of her belt and opened a small, hand-held terminal. It was designed to map the immediate vicinity of the user’s position for 10 miles in all directions. Based on the date, she was now around six miles removed from the site where Alpha team had entered the universe. “How far away are we from your master? Hours? Days? Weeks? And what lays in store for us before we get there? It might make things easier on both of us if I have some idea of the threats that await us.” The Minotaur grabbed his throat in an instinctive gesture." Yes... Explanations. They are in order... I should have warned you, but I didn't... And for that... I apologize." Speaking was still painful." This was not the way to my master, for that would have been death for you." He pointed at the lizards." You need to see... beyond the darkness. Beyond the invisible." Now he kicked the demons's corpse with hate and disgust." I brought you here... For this. I had... knowledge of her nature. She was not a creature of the darkness, but she was bound here by the master, and the power of vision was given to her. A trinket. A magic object. Something in her possession, or something she was wearing." He took a look at the revealing, skimpy pieces of golden linen, and for a moment he contemplated the image of Lorna, the warrior, clad on something like that... Now, that would be funny. He resisted the picture, and focused on the search. The demons was wearing a small gold tiara with a crimson gem in front." This may be it." He handed the object to Lorna." Here. Wear it, and we wait. If I'm correct, the effects will manifest in a little while." His neck was feeling better. The powder would not be necessary this time." Now, you ask me about the threats we are to face. I will tell you, even when you don't tell me everything there is to know. The power you manifested in the spider's lair was... frightening. But then, you fell easy prey to those lizards. You continue to be a mystery to me." He paused for a minute to consider what he was going to say next." Now, we return to the ruins you've seen before. There, we'll follow passages that were once known to me, and we'll travel down under rock and stone for two days straight. I don't expect fights during those days, as the inhabitants, while vicious and able to wield magic-like powers, travel in noisy groups and are easy to avoid. They have an underground city of sorts, but we won't get close to it, as that would mean sure death." For a few moments, he stopped. Lie. Don't tell her everything." If we live through those two days, we'll reach the deepest void, were my master's tower raises over the very fires of hell itself. He will be there, and... others. Of what we may find inside, I remember... very little." She took the Tiara from him, whilst shaking her head.“If we came here for the prom queen’s crown then you should have told me that from the start. I don’t like surprises, Minotaur.” She put the tiara on her head. At first nothing seemed to change, but soon the darkness disappeared, like a dark fog had instantly been lifted. The path in front of her was clearly illuminated, as if daylight itself was shining upon it. “Wow… and you say I’ll be able to see invisible foes with this thing as well?” Lorna’s nose suddenly curled up when the smell hit her. The foulest odor she hadeverreeked. Rotten eggs smelt like rose water in comparison. It took her a moment to figure out it was the lizard blood that had splattered all over her outfit that was doing the damage. “Damn… I smell like I rolled around in a sewer…” She checked her formerly white shirt and her dark pants and found stains of the green liquid had splattered all over her outfit. She wasn’t the prissy kind, but she didn’t intend to walk around the Dungeon smelling like a pile of manure either. Furthermore, she stared at the skimpy, golden bustier and matching skirt that the demons was wearing. It wasn’t exactly a dream outfit, but it was better than the smelly rags she had on right now.“Cover your eyes, Minotaur.” She undid her utility belt and pulled the shirt over her head, revealing her braless torso. Her dark camo-pants followed. She put the golden brassier and gold-colored skirt on instead after stripping them off the Demons. To her relief, both of them fit her perfectly. She clipped her belt back on over the skirt. She was showing more flesh than she cared to now, but at least the stench was gone. Furthermore, she threw the blood-stained clothes as far away from her as possible.“So, you say two days march before we reach your master’s lair. Two possibly quiet days even… And then the main event… Well if you don’t know what’s inside, I guess we’ll have to play by ear once we get there. Just know one thing Minotaur. I’m tired of surprises, so if there’s anything else you’d like to share with me, you should do it now. Because I won’t take too kindly to finding out you’ve been hiding things from me again…” The Minotaur's heart raced when he was faced by his companion's transformation. Under her though demeanor and warrior attitude, here was a woman who could properly fit an attire made for an avatar of lust. He could do nothing but stare at her well toned abdomen, at the statuesque curves under the skirt, at the delicately well-filled bustier, or at the athletic muscles well hidden under the nimble skin. You're as much a warrior, as an angel. Those are going to be two very interesting days, indeed." No more surprises." He started to move, choosing crevices and nooks over open passages, no longer limited by the need for light." Our first stop is one of my places. There, you can rest, eat, and sleep if you have the need, before we start our journey to the deeps." The travel there actually took several hours of rough trotting through irregular and deceitful terrain, at a fast, almost inhuman pace. It was uneventful, but the effort was more than enough to bring a trained soldier to her knees." Don't worry. This is the place." This second camp was built on cunning instead of brute force. A huge patch of underground flora, of harmful looks but innocuous at touch, had to be crossed blindly to reach an opening that was not visible from the outside. There, after a few turns, a slightly larger room opened, partially filled by the water of an underground stream. Like the other camp, pelts and torches made it into something more or less hospitable." Now, we plan", said the Minotaur, while he lighted the torches using only flint and steel. They both could see without them, but the Minotaur was grateful for the easiness on the eyes and the warm feeling they provided." The passages are close to us, and this far from the deeps we should find no danger. Yet, I'd like to scout them. This is something I could do alone, as I have no need of rest, and this would make our journey later shorter and safer." Once they arrived at the Minotaur’s second encampment, Lorna threw the backpack off her shoulders. She sat down on the pelts, half-panting. She had not complained on the trip over there, but keeping up with the Minotaur’s pace had taken everything out of her. Furthermore, she was near exhaustion. When he suggested scouting ahead without her, she happily nodded.“Yes… feel free to do so… I honestly could use a rest.” She moved to the side of the stream and splashed some water onto her face. It was ice-cold as was to be expected but brought some sharpness back to her mind. Her muscles were sore and tiredness went over her body. She moved back to the stack of animal pelts and crashed down on top of them. Her eyelids suddenly felt like they weighed a ton and she eagerly closed her eyes. Soon a pleasant haze of unconsciousness came over her mind as she fell in a deep sleep. Images of the foes she had fought off so far flash in front of her. Her dreams were filled with images of horror and mystery. No doubt the wizard had a hold on every mind within his dungeon, including Lorna’s. When she was asleep, the aura of his magic invaded her consciousness. In her dreams she was running away from the same things she had eluded earlier in the day, and some other creatures she had never seen before. Only her bullets seemed to have no effect of them and more and more monsters surrounded her. She woke up from her dream with a loud scream clattering from the walls of the cavern. It took her a moment to recognize the echo of her own voice in it. Her body was covered in sweat as she pushed some of the pelts off her body. The camp was otherwise empty… The Minotaur had likely not yet returned from his scouting trip. She felt the sheen of sweat on her skin and felt the urge to wash the effects of the day of her body, even if it was just with water. She crawled over to the shallow stream that ran through his living space and quickly peeled off the skimpy clothing, and then her panties as well. Furthermore, she shivered a bit as she set her foot down into the cold water, but soon she adjusted to the temperature, and she occupied herself with washing the dirt and sweat off her body for the next few minutes, feeling relatively safe in the Minotaur’s lair. As soon as the scream echoed through the walls of the caverns, the two predators became alerted. They were Crawlers, a caricature of the human form, with extremely long extremities, aged faces with pointy teeth and empty eyes, and knotty bodies of chameleonic properties. Through roofs and walls they would crawl unseen, waiting, for days if needed, for the unsuspecting prey to walk to their reach. They were able to handle preys far larger than themselves, thanks to their impossible strength and hypnotic gaze, one that was very able to fill any mortal being with the most extreme of the sensations, at the predator's whim. The Crawlers were hungry, and a victim was at hand. They followed the origin of the sound up to a dead end around a full-grown patch of titanic flora. Perhaps the prey was beyond any reach? But the echoes were unmistakable, with no obstacle in between. So they persisted, explored, and were rewarded with the strangest of the displays, as beyond the area, and under the light of torches, a nude woman cleaned herself, oblivious to her fate. A bunch of clothes, including a golden tiara, rested in disorder some feet away. They struggled, perturbed and unsure, as they hated the water more than anything... The water could burn and tamper with their skins in ways that were far from pleasant. Yet, this was not a kill to be left alone. Mimicking the properties of the cavernous roof, they started to move closer, looking for the perfect spot, licking their lips in anticipation, prepared to wait for the perfect angle to be opened. Meanwhile, a few miles away, the Minotaur waited until the sounds of the last patrol, those horrible, mechanical noises, faded away entirely. This it's taking far too long. They are more, much more numerous than I remembered. His memories were more vague than he thought, or the place had changed beyond recognition. No safe passage remained open, so unlike the first time he traveled those halls, this time they faced a real risk of being spotted. Time to go back. At this rate of movement, she would still have to wait for a good while. For a single instant he feared for her security, but then he remembered her powerful weapons and newly acquired vision. In camp, with her weapons ready, nobody is going to catch her off guard. That much is certain. Lorna was splashing some water onto her torso when she thought she heard a sound coming from behind her.“Minotaur, is that you?” No answer came, and she wondered if it had just been her imagination. The creature had told her it was safe here, and she had no reason to doubt his words. The cavern had been near impossible to discover. It wasn’t the kind of place any monster would just stumble onto by accident. They had to know it existed to find it at all. She plunged her head underwater for a bit and then shook some of the moisture out of her hair. Some soap would have been nice, but at least she would smell like dried Lizard-blood and sweat any longer. She noticed something was wrong when she took a step outside the pond of water. There was a movement above her head, on the ceiling. She could distinguish any form, just a quick motion. She rolled away from the watery pond and leapt towards the pile of clothes. If she could just get a hold of her belt… A loud shriek came from above the moment she was completely out of the water and a shadowy figure came crashing down. She narrowly missed a huge claw as it crashed down into the granite floor besides her. A second later, she had found her holster and she quickly pulled out the blaster pistol. Now that it was on the floor, her foe was easier to distinguish from its surroundings. It was a distorted version of a humanoid, with impossibly long limbs and a hideous face. As it neared her position, she emptied a few rounds into his torso, which sent it toppling back into the pond. It screamed violently as the water hit its skin, until it finally succumbed to the wounds. Another figure dropped behind her, and she was able to duck just in the nick of time to avoid the scythe of his sharp upper limb. Had it made contact with her torso, she would have been cut in half. This time she rolled away and aimed at the thing’s lower limbs. Two well-aimed shot at its knees brought it to the ground. A third shot to the head ended its miserable existence for good. She was left panting and still in the nude in the middle of the Minotaur’s lair.“Fuck me, what a nightmare of a universe. A girl can’t even take a quiet bath without some creep disturbing her…” The Minotaur arrived a few hours later to a surprising scene. One crawler rested dead, its head now an indistinguishable mess, while the pound was now perverted by the floating crimson liquid emanating from the pungent body still immersed in the waters. Lorna, again clothed and equipped for battle, maintained a defendable position she had improvised. In no doubt, any other visitant would have met a fast death on entry." Lorna, you... Have been attacked? Here?" There was surprise and regret in his voice." This... This has never happened before." He approached her, but hesitated, at least while she was still alerted, weapon on hand." What did just happen?"" My exploration has been... Complicated. The activity in the ruins has incremented. We... We are no longer safe here." Yes. And as we move further into the darkness, it's only going to get worse. When she had heard the large footsteps nearing the cavern, she hadn’t just assumed it was the Minotaur. She had crouched down against the opposite wall and aimed her blaster at the middle of the entrance. She would drop whatever entered if it turned out to be anything other than her companion. Furthermore, she relaxed her posture when the Minotaur did emerge out of the corridor. “No shit it’s not safe in here… you might have warned me about these guys prowling around here. I was butt-naked when they came in here. Just lucky enough to get to my blaster fast enough, or else…” She holstered her weapon now that the Minotaur was returned.“That’s the second time I’ve been attacked while you went missing. It’s becoming a bit of a habit…” She eyed him curiously. If she had any doubts about his intentions earlier, they were now gone. He had ample opportunity to get rid of her if that was his aim. He likely would have done so by now.“Listen… I’m tired of calling you Minotaur. And since you have no name you recall off… I’m going to call you Bertram. It’s the name of my old drill sergeant. He was full of bull as well.” She grinned at her own joke. She picked up her backpack and put it back on her shoulders.“I’m kinda glad to be getting out of here; these things still give me the creeps even after I pumped them full of titanium. What did you mean by more activity? Are there more critters out there than you remember? Well if you’ve been gone from these parts for as long as you say, it’s no surprise the neighborhood has changed a bit. Can’t expect to find everything exactly as you remember it. But I’m sure we’ll be able to handle whatever we encounter. The way you got rid of those Lizard-creeps was impressive.” She patted the huge Minotaur on his backside and joked. “How about it Bertram? Are you ready to move on? Your uninvited guests ruined the mood anyway.” Bertram... She dared to give me a name. A name? But it was a fine name. It has been a long time since he had a name. Then, some door, hidden in the furthermost limits of his mind, just opened. Yes... He had a name once. Which name? He couldn't recall it now. But just... when? Since the moment of his creation, he has always been the Minotaur. Perhaps at some point he will be able to recover his true name. For now, Bertram will do. And then, there was this new familiarity." I'm sorry. My bad judgement has put you in danger, twice. There are many thinks lying in those caves, some of them unknown to me. I can't guarantee you free passage, but I promise you my arm will fight for you, while I still can control it. I won't leave you again." The Minotaur, Bertram, moved to leave the disrespected sanctuary, taking Lorna's arm as he invited her to follow him outside." I will tell you what I know. As you may suspect already, most of the creatures made by my master's hand are pure beasts who act by instinct and pure animal drives. Those will have no mind or soul, and would speak no language. Then there are others, such as me... Those who are made with a purpose, but given some willpower of their own. I was made for battle, for the honor of the Arena, but others were made with different motivations." He didn't stop talking while they started the journey. First, there were some signs: a broken post, a small patch of roadblock, the ruins of some small construction. But as time passed, natural rocks and cavernous locations were being replaced by masonry walls, openings craved in stone, and the occasional passage closed by heavy iron bars. They were approaching some kind of civilization, although one long ago decayed and forgotten." The ones we're to face are golem makers. They have the power to animate any material into powerful humanoids of unnatural strength, who can't be stopped. How do you kill stone, or marble, or sand? Strike at them with all your might, and they will just reconstruct their previous form, unscathed. With mechanical, unrelenting drive they roam the halls of the golem makers' city." Bertram got closer to Lorna, his expression deadly serious... Was that fear? Or just concern?" You are impressed by my battle prowess, but let me tell you, against creatures such as those, I can do nothing." The natural features were now few and far between, and the road opened to some kind of huge arc of triumph, standing proud in the middle of the darkness, walls and ceiling further away than Bertram could see, even with his magic vision." This is the entrance, one of them. I explored a number of alternatives but found them dangerous and unsafe. Let's go for it. From now on, silence and stealth are our main weapons." Bertram removed his armor, both top and legs, and throw it away, remaining clad only in his belt, fur boots, and some loincloth undies that left little to the imagination." We should reduce any source of noise, wear only what is strictly necessary." He took a glance at Lorna's skimpy outfit, smiling." At least on that, you came well-prepared already." She eyed him curiously as his eyes seemed to appraise her form. “Watch where your eyes linger, Bertram!” She chastised the Minotaur when she noticed his gaze staying on her chest for a while. Men! Even a Minotaur who had been stuck in a crazy dungeon for thousands of years still had a one-track mind when it came to women, or so it appeared. Though her serious demeanor soon returned. Even though she had not made it too apparent, his words had made quite an impression. The Golems that inhabited this city were even more powerful than he was? She felt her heart pounding in her chest even as she silently followed him into the city, walking in through the gigantic arch. The situation was pretty simple. If they got caught, the creatures inside this dwelling would make short work of them both. Though she found it hard to imagine something could put down the Minotaur. Still, she had seen genuine fear in his eyes as he discussed the Golem makers. She stared at his muscular back, which was now bare. It was covered in an erratic pattern of scars, the result of hundreds, perhaps thousands of years of arena battle. What would the mind of someone who had survived so many horrific wounds look like? Was there a scar on his soul for every wound he suffered on his flesh? Their new surroundings would likely have been pitch black without her Tiara. Even with the Tiara on, the path in front of her was no longer completely illuminated. It was just bright enough for her to distinguish the obstacles ahead. Or perhaps the magic in the Tiara just didn’t work as well within the walls of this city? Half an hour of slow progress later they had yet to walk into any creatures. Perhaps Bertram had overestimated the threat? The path meandered ever more erratically. More and more ruins of formerly great structures emerged. Based on what was left, this was a city that once housed thousands, perhaps even millions. It was hard to imagine so many people – or creatures – living this far underground. Yet something had called a halt to this civilization. Perhaps the same wizard who had his grasp on the rest of the Dungeon had destroyed these people? Lorna briefly shuddered at the thought, even though the freezing breeze that cut through her bare skin did not help either… For several hours, they walked, crossing halls, and streets, and squares, and many structures of marvelous and strange origin. They were slow, and careful, but the tension in the air didn't make the trip any easier. At some point, a great civilization was alive here, but now nothing could be found other than the rubble and dust. But that perception was deceitful, as Bertram could barely hear many sounds of distant clashes as the things cringed and walked the ruins, perhaps not loud enough to be perceived by a human. Sometimes, a shadow would move in the distance, and Bertram would hurry to change their path and find a way around. Is she alright? She was doing fine navigating the immediate obstacles, but she acted as if she was not aware of the dangers far away. Is the tiara's magic fading away already? He suspected it wouldn't last forever after the death of its former owner... But he expected at least several days of use. Many paths opened in all directions, and his orientation was already at a loss. This was not the way he followed years ago, and some structures looked familiar, but most of them were alien to him. We need to go down, deeper in the underground. He guided Lorna towards an underground passage, a tunnel digging straight, far and away into the depths. No exit other than forward, but then, no way to get surprised. This will do. So they walked down this passage. At some point later, it expanded game them a bit more space to breath. The tunnel's sides were populated by many open niches, big enough to hold even a creature as big as him. Perhaps those were intended to be habited by the city's denizens? They remain empty, no corpse to be found. Further away, he could see a number of old chains hanging in the roofs, oscillating by the action of some underground current of air. Good, we approach open space. The news encouraged him, but then, as they got a bit closer... Idiot. Imbecile. There is no wind, and those are no chains. The heavy metal started to move and recoil, dozens of chains of all lengths and sizes suddenly collapsing, as by the action of a powerful magnet that summoned them to a single place. No time to run. No time to run! Hide! As fast as silently as he could, he grabbed Lorna by the waist and jumped to the closest niche at the floor, a stone cavity barely big enough to hold them both. He pressed Lorna's body against his own with full strength, fighting her surprise. Stay still, stay still, I beg of you... The creature above them was now fully formed, a barely humanoid form of metal worms who struggled to remain upright. The horror of tendrils moved towards them, unsure, vacillating, yet approaching with sure step and ill determination. Lorna had been surprise when Bertram suddenly took them off the path they were following to go down a narrow corridor that lead deeper into the ground. She did not dare break the silence to inquire about his motives. They had not encountered any enemies so far, and she hoped to keep it that way. For some reason, the tight confines of the corridor made her feel slightly more at ease, even though she realized that they were just as easy prey to any foe as they had been out in the open, if not more so. Eventually as they approached a series of chains hanging down by the ceiling, something seemed to change in the Minotaur. At first, he seemed to relax, but then she saw his neck muscles tensing as he observed a huge cluster of chains just fall down to the cavern floor. Before she could respond or say anything, he had scooped her up the floor. His massive arms wrapped around her frame and she felt her face being pressed up against his chest. It took her a moment to realize they were now hiding inside one of the narrow alcove that that lined the hallway. There was barely enough room for Bertram alone, let alone her own body which was pressed tightly against the Minotaur's flesh. She could feel her own warm breath as it hit his chest. She could hear his heart pounding in near panic. If there was something out there that could make him that nervous… She could not see the chain monster creeping nearer to their position, all she could hear was the clattering sound of its metal appendages as it crawled over the hard floor. Would this be as close as they got to the Wizard? Would they be strangled to death by some hideous cave-dwelling metal freak? The monster was close, raised over the niche, probing his surroundings. As some of the smaller chains would fell from his body and into the niche, Bertram pressed Lorn's body with renewed pressure. Careful. You're hurting her. The small worms shook, and rippled, and struggled to go back to their master, navigating the unexpected bodies of flesh they had encounter. Don't move. They don't know about flesh or life, but they will kill us if we move. Time stood still. The monster stayed for a while, its intentions impossible to make out from the stiff reality of the small closet. But, after a while, it receded, and moved up towards the tunnel's entrance, perhaps in search of whatever disturbance had awakened him. Bertram wouldn't dare to move yet, so for a long while they stayed there, quiet and motionless." He is gone", finally said the Minotaur, as his pulse turned back to normal, still in the niche. Close one. Too close. As they were hiding in the niche, there was an instant where Lorna honestly feared that Bertram would crush her chest. Thankfully he seemed to realize himself that he was applying too much pressure to her frame and she felt his grasp easing up, if only just a bit. They remained there, immobile, for a long time after the metal-on-rock noises of the chain monsters had disappeared into the distance. Clearly the thing was far gone by the time Bertram felt at ease to acknowledge as much.“Good… then put me down…” She slid down the Minotaur’s frame as he let go of his grasp. She could smell his fear on her skin as she pushed the Minotaur off her and into the corridor. “Well a good thing that’s over. You almost crushed me in here! It’s a tight fit to squeeze you alone in there…” She looked deeper into the corridor, where she believed the creature to have disappeared into. “What was that thing anyway? Was that a Golem? Now how I imagined it would look…” Not that she had any specific idea of what it was supposed to look like. At least not down here. “So… is it safe to follow this path any further… Or should we head back to where we came from?” She didn’t really feel like running into another surprise. On the other hand, any minute spent down here was one too many, so if they were going to backtrack, that meant more time spent in the city of Golem-makers. And that did not sit well with her either… The Minotaur helped himself to stand up." This is one form, but they have many. They are made of bricks, or stone, or sand, or any other material imaginable." He remembered previous encounters, encounters he barely escaped alive. Something was different, however. He remembered in the past, challenging the beasts upfront, hacking them apart until fleeing became the only option possible. He would stand, proud, and face death or worse against those or any other creature. Furthermore, he remembers a very different self compared to the one who trembles and grips a woman in despair. Why?" We're still in the city, but some part I don't recognize. I was familiar with areas down below. We should continue this path and see where it leads us to." Two days of march at least, and barely a few hours passed away." Most of the journey is still ahead of us. Let's go." And they continued down the tunnel, leaving the area devoid of any sound or movement... Except for the small sets of metal chain worms, tiny as ankle bracelets, bending and crawling, and following their steps. Lorna slowly allowed herself to relax a little as they descended further into the corridor. The deeper they got, the wider the passage became, until they arrived at another huge plateau. The walls and ceiling were not visible. But if she had to guess, the room was likely a couple of hundred feet across in all directions. The ruins there were in a worse state than they had been at the higher level. It was as if a giant had scythed down all structures in a single swoop. No structure stood higher than three feet. Piles of rubble littered the ground. With the open ground, the clenching feeling of uneasiness returned to her chest. She put her hand back on the holster of her blaster, though she wasn’t sure how much damage, if any, it would do to the Golems. As they slowly made their way across the room, she couldn’t help but feel like someone or something was observing them. Waiting for a moment to pounce on them. And then, she heard it. The sound. Metal dragging along on rock. It was faint, but it was definitely there. And it was coming from somewhere behind them. She poked Bertram in the ribs, but he had already heard it himself. Suddenly a shrieking sound came from behind them. She turned to face the source only to see the chain-monster they had eluded only moments earlier fly towards them at breakneck speed. Lorna did not wait to see how the Minotaur reacted. Instead, she made sure to get out of the monster’s path. She ran towards the remains of a nearby wall and leapt over it. As she rolled down on the other side, she heard some of the chain-monster’s appendages crash into the granite bricks. She crawled to her feet and quickly scampered off into a half destroyed space nearby. She pressed herself against the half-wall and rolled herself up into the tiniest ball she could manage. Furthermore, she remembered what the Minotaur had said. They could not defeat these things. Their only hope was to hide from them… Too late! Too late! It's too late for... everything! The Minotaur swung his axe, clenched his teeth, hacked again and again at the visceral mess of iron and steel. His movement was, as always, a beautiful parade of grace and speed. But it was to no avail, as the formless mass of inconsistency had no solidness to it. The enemy was air. Like futile attempts to cut and hurt a river's water, little could he do other than delay the inevitable." Run! Run for your life!" He had been an idiot, speaking aloud in the middle of the city. The monsters see only sound and movement, but he had to speak. Why? Why had he allowed this need, this longing for companionship cloud his mind that much? Even now, this mere thinking about the woman, had left him distracted, open to attack, as the chains twisted around his ankles in an attempt to trip him. You won't have me that easy, monster. He jumped back, towards the center of the room, where he could have more space to breathe. Where is Lorna? I can't see her. Is she safe? Pay attention! The monster sensed his vacillation somehow and moved to attack. One, two, a hundred chains raised to overwhelm the Minotaur, the monster no longer attempting to make usage of any humanoid form. One, two, and many times they were driven back. Then, Lorna's figure became evident, a small ball hidden under the debris." Run! Don't remain here! Run!" Bertram's hand was no longer free, as one huge chain grappled it and twisted his arm with extreme force. His axe fell. No! More and more chains rushed to the Minotaur, holding him in place, every limb and patch of skin now the center of a crude web of many irons. And with the prey secured, the monster started to move, pushing up, always crushing, always pulling, unmoved by the sounds of breaking skin and bone. The mass of chains climbed walls and columns, disappearing through a huge hole in the center of the ceiling. And the Minotaur's awareness slowly faded away, as his mind could only sense the darkness closing into him. The Minotaur's weak voice echoed in the huge room, even now, when monster and Minotaur where no longer to be seen. "Run!", he has said. But run. Where? The huge room had several exits in many directions. Run back? The long tunnel proved not to be a safe place, and it was a long way up. Likewise, going down, trying to find the way with no guide, when there more than one day of march remaining, was crazy. Even the way up used by the monster looked out of reach from this position. What was she going to do? Only one thing was sure: this place was not safe. "Run!", he said. The tiara's power was clearly diminishing, the remote walls of the big area almost black now to her eye. Lorna hid in her make-shift shelter for a few seconds until she heard Bertram’s calls. As she looked up, she saw him locked in mortal combat with the chain-monster. Even though he fought valiantly, it was clear that the odds were too badly stacked against him. How do you defeat a foe you cannot harm? Eventually the giant was disarmed, and then toppled. As the Minotaur was brought to his feet, she heard his scream again. Run. She had to get out of there. But to go where? Going back was not an option. So she started running again towards the others side of the room. As she looked over her shoulder, she noticed that the chain-monster was dragging Bertram up the walls and towards the ceiling. There was nothing she could do to help him anyway. She kept on running, moving ever faster. Eventually she came at another huge arch, this one even larger than the one they had encountered before. Now that she was closer, the noticed that each half of the arch was actually a winged, naked figure carved out of the cavern wall. Two naked, female angels whose wings and touching arms formed the top of the arch. It was an odd image, that seemed out of place in this dark and grim world. She had no time to admire the craftsmanship and quickly entered the space beyond it. The next room took her by surprise. It was possibly even larger than the one where Bertram had been capture. Only the walls were different. Millions of gems, seemingly suck in the rocky walls, glittered in the darkness. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds… countless them, as far as she could see. And in the middle, a golden statue. It was another winged figure, only this time it was joined by a dragon-like form. The statue depicted the angel raising its sword at the dragon. Lorna kept on running but finally came to a halt in front of the statue. If someone else was here, they kept their presence a secret. She looked over her shoulder. It didn’t appear as if she had been followed. But she had lost her guide… And she was at least another day and a half away from the Wizard. Only she had no idea which direction she had to go… There was, however, an interesting feature in the place, one Lorna discovered only by sheer luck. The room's dome, high above, but not high enough to be out of view for her, was extensively painted to form a kind of huge display of very small interconnected drawings, one of them a clear depiction of two angels touching arms. It was a map, of the city and the underground beyond, perhaps. She could make sense of her position, and the plateau nearby, and some features she barely recognized from the city above. And then, the angel turned his head and his expression changed to a very, very angry one. Or... Not exactly angry. In fact, it was as if is the angel, and the dragon too, were melting away, capes of gold slipping down to the floor, his expression losing fast any human-like features. "This is one form, but they have many," he said about the chain monster. "They are made of any material imaginable"... This was another golem. As Lorna looked down, she was surprised to see small rivers of the vicious gold-like liquid moving up to her, both her feet already sinking in the material. Her joy at discovering the map on the ceiling was short-lived as Lorna’s feet were now already ankle-deep in the gold-liquid. It seemed as if the liquid metal was grasping her limbs and pulling her further down. No amount of tugging on her feet managed to pull her free and she quickly descended deeper into the golden quick-sand. Soon she was down to her knees in it. She considered using her blaster but quickly realized how stupid that plan was. How was she going to harm a being of liquid gold with explosive rounds? Not to mention that she was more likely to hurt herself in the process. She could call for help, but Bertram was gone… And she was more likely to attract another Golem to her position. By then she was down in the gold liquid up to her thighs. At this rate, she’d be gone completely in another two or three minutes. The gold started to engulf her buttocks, then her abdomen, reached around her arms until it made it to her shoulders. She raised her head as high as she could manage. A few seconds later she felt the gold substance reach her lips and she drew in one last, long breath before closing her mouth. An instant later, her eyelids were covered as well and the world went dark around her. The air in her lungs might manage to keep her alive for a few more minutes, but not much longer. She was completely immobilized, and she lost all track of direction and location. It was as if she was caught underwater in a river. She felt as if she was being dragged away even though she was convinced she was still in the same position – in front of the statue’s perch. Slowly her consciousness faded… and faded… until her mind itself went black. The Minotaur opened his eyes slowly, to discover himself in a very uncomfortable position. His body was a mess. Blood was sprayed everywhere... His blood. Each minor parcel of his body ached like hell, and he was sure to have some, perhaps plenty of bones broken. To add insult to injury, any movement was impossible, as heavy chains forced his arms to his back and spiraled around her entire body, which was kept suspended in a forced, precarious position. He recognized easily the chains that were holding him. Still in the clutches of the chain golem. How depressing. But he was not alone. This was some kind of temple, or shrine, ample and filled with torches. Overall, in a much better shape than the rest of the city. At least four, no, five human figures clad in black robes with hoods were sitting around him. He recognized some of them, and also the imposing minions standing behind each man. Golems. Golems, and their masters. Most are new. Let's see... Clay... Water... Diamonds? Though one. And that other one, made of swords. Very original. One figure was standing much closer to him. Close enough, he could smell the small man's stinking breath." Finally! For one moment, I thought I had exceeded myself with you", said the man, and as he made a small gesture, the chains pulled the Minotaur's arms beyond their limits. Something broke." I'm curious, Minotaur, about your visit. Perhaps you can enlighten us about its purpose? No? Disappointing." Another pull, and a rib or two going with it." You've grown old, beast. I remember you being, well, way more ferocious, back in your prime. Not that it would mean any difference today and now, of course. We've been... Improving. Experimenting, you see. Growing. In the name of the master, of course." The chains pulling him back were attached to the very columns around the hall. Following the will of their master, they twisted again, pulling the Minotaur's limbs even further away. He was fighting hard to prevent his consciousness to betray him. The man's words were worlds away." You should see our treasury's guardian, for example. Oh, that beauty... The pinnacle of our craft. Superb, magnificent! Not the strongest of our kind, mind you... Although more than a match for that lascivious female of yours. I regret to inform you that she was not much of a fight, and she is now death. Such a waste." There was some grumble, as the Minotaur tried to speak, but only managed to spit blood." I'm sorry?", said the man in robes,"I can't hear you. What did you say?" The Minotaur's voice was barely audible." I said... You just... made... the error... of your life."" Oh, yes? How interesting! Please, please, tell me... How is that?"" She was... preventing..." More spitting. More blood." I didn't want her... to ever see me... as I truly am..." The man just chuckled." Oh, I see... So, what is that true nature of you, Minotaur? What do you are?" Deep red eyes fixed their gaze into that tiny man's soul itself." A monster." The men in robes had little time to consider the answer, as the beast was now awake. Arms that were no longer broken, but had somehow grown twice in size and much more in strength, ripped chains and stone like if they were paper, and a demonic jaw, no longer of a bull but much more bestial and terrible, bit through flesh and bone and drank blood, far from being satiated. The columns moved by the pressure, as the chains, pulled with impossible force, would cut and sew through the very foundations of stone. Soon, the temple itself started to crumble against the unnatural forces that were manifesting inside." Quick! Regroup! Attack him! Everybody at once!", said one of the men in robes. But it was too late for them. In a very dark place, a beauty, clad in golden linen clothes, laid motionless, crushed by forces engulfing her from all angles, no longer aware of up and down, her mind fading, all hope lost. How much time had she endured that underwater sensation, the lack of air, the heavyweight closing her eyelids? Too much. Her body tried to bend, to move, desperate for fresh air. There was no exit. Had she surrendered to her fate? But something was different. The force that engulfed her, preventing her movements, was... Not that strong anymore. In an unconscious gesture, but faced with great resistance, she opened her mouth, desperate for air... And was surprised to find it. She was even able to open her eyes, with no less effort, and what she saw surprised her even more. She was still in the treasure room, but not under the floor anymore. Somehow, the monster had displaced her body and made her stand up, a form of human statue, even if, under the liquid, she had no awareness of her surroundings. She didn't know if the monster pretended to immortalize her figure, or simply learn from it, but something else was true: something did happen to the monster. The grip was no longer strong, and the substance over all her body was dipping down, no longer covering her nose and eyes. It was as if the liquid was not... alive anymore. Movement was hard, but possible. In fact, the angel and dragon statue was no longer gold, the texture more akin to stone now, and, as she looked down, she could see the golden floor of the room progressively turning into stone as well, the conversion advancing fast in her direction. How unfortunate that she was still clad to the neck in the substance. “Bloody Hell…” She realized the reality of the situation. Eventually all the gold liquid would turn to stone. And if she was still covered in the stuff at that time, she’d turn into a stone statue. She forced her arms to move down, and she started shaking the substance off her upper limbs until they were completely free of it. Having regained her control of her arms and hands, she reached underneath the liquid gold on her torso and undid her gold brassier. She threw the garment on the rocky floor and was able to pull off half of the gold liquid that was covering her upper body with it. Then, the skirt came off, allowing her to free her buttocks and part of her upper thighs of the golden trap. She then started shaking the remainder of the mess off her legs. Just in time – a mere seconds before the gold-to-stone effect reached her – she wiped the last of the liquid off her feet. To her surprise, not a speck of gold was visible anywhere in the room. The demons’ garments she had just thrown off her body were now set in stone.“Great…” The Gold Golem was indeed dead, though she hadn’t a clue what had caused its demise. It certainly hadn’t been her. She had been helpless from the moment she encountered the thing. With only her panties and the utility belt remaining from her original attire and equipment, she went on her way. At least she still had her blaster, though her backpack had also disappeared along with the Gold Golem. A shame, the explosives inside would have no doubt come in handy as they got closer to the Wizard. A bright shining light illuminated the path in front of her. She had not noticed it before, likely because of all the glittering gems in the cavern walls. In the distance, another opening in the cavern. No doubt the entry into the next room. She picked up her pace and raced towards it. She had no intention of remaining within the Golems’ dwelling for longer than necessary. Furthermore, she could only hope that this was the right and shortest way towards the Wizard’s lair. Lorna raced towards the light, the occasional breeze freezing her nude torso and feet. The tiara's magic was now almost gone, and the map would be invisible now without a light source, one she expected to find in that cavern. With her backpack gone and the remaining flares gone with it, that could be her only hope to find her way around the ruins. The content of the room was unexpected, to say the least. Scattered around a huge hall of marble and alabaster, the last remains of a past civilization were laid here, sheltered and on display, a museum arranged by hands unknown. Between the walls and columns, under the light of countless torches, Lorna could see paintings, frescoes, objects and statues of all sizes and styles. Here and there she was presented by a glimpse to many scenes of the day-to-day life of a city long ago lost and buried. They were human, with urges and hopes not unlike those of any other human. The city was not underground once, as she could see buildings bathed with the fiery rays of a hot sun, and the citizens liked to wear little. She saw scenes of people using tools that were far more advanced than those of a medieval era, although no weapon was ever present in a picture or scene. And there was, in the middle of the collection, the rarest of sights: a woman, standing proud between the displays. Took her a time to figure the nature of the figure, as it was not alive, although it was very much life-like. Some kind of wax figure, she could have been a diva, or a queen perhaps on life, as in several depictions around she was shown acclaimed, reverenced by many. The figure's clothes were no wax, but as real as the ones Lorna just lost, and both woman were a perfect match in constitution and size. Although the black and blue attire didn't cover more skin than your typical swimsuit, there was some kind of majesty to the lines drawn onto it, and at least, it could offer some protection against the chill underground. The next step to be made would direct Lorna's fate. Was she going to explore the undergrounds with one of those lights, a beacon for evils yet unknown? Perhaps, light on hand, she could go back to the map now, to make sense of her location, but what other dangers would lurk there, guarding the precious gems? Or she could risk the caverns in the dark, her light sense almost depleted, but perhaps that way could only lead to nightmares she wouldn't forget. “Well to hell with it…” Lorna stopped her hesitation and peeled the fine fabric of the wax figure. She pulled the outfit over her body. It was a snug fit, but once she checked her reflection in a nearby silver mirror, to her surprise it seemed as if it was tailor-made for her. At least she wouldn’t be running around the caverns butt-naked any longer. She approached one of the lower-hanging torches and picked it up out of the crevice in the wall it was suspended by. She realized the magical Tiara was no longer working, so she tossed the precious accessory to the side as well. Back to torches it was. She descended deeper into the bright-white room. It didn’t seem to reach quite as far as the two rooms before. And it appeared genuinely deserted. Even though someone had to be responsible for lighting the torches… Her fire drew flickering shadows on the walls, some of which looked disturbingly like humanoid monsters. She figured her mind was playing tricks on her, until one of the shadows stepped off the wall.“Oh dear…” She wasn’t sure this was another Golem, but she quickly figured out that whatever it was, it meant trouble. Her quick feet carried her away as quickly as possible. She noticed several more wrath-like figures jump off the walls and race towards her. Was this never going to end? Each new room posed a new threat. Suddenly she found herself surrounded by half a dozen of the wrath. Fire, or perhaps the light, seemed to scare them, so she kept them at arm’s length with her torch. Though she quickly realized that would only keep them away for that long… Lorna had been waving the torch trying to scare the shadows away... But was it working? As the light moved around, lights and shadows danced under the effects of the pulsating source. She noticed with horror that the same light source providing her protection was also helping to create more of those things, as new shadows were formed under the torchlight's mantle, crawling under every obstacle and every crevice. But, if every shadow was alive... What about her own shadow? She could not help but look down only to discover her own shadow was not only very much alive, but had already bent up towards her body and grabbed her legs, black two-dimensional hands sliding up her bare legs with a cold, creepy touch, slowly approaching the blue bottom of her swimsuit. “Oh you’ve got to be kidding me…” The light… The light was the source of their power. If there was no light source to create the shadowy figures, they would disappear. There was just one problem. This entire room was brightly lit with the fire of hundreds of torches. She started by dropping her own torch. She saw an opening and managed to disappear, slipping through the grasp of the Shadows. Furthermore, she could see the exit in the distance. Just a few hundred feet away. If she could make it out of this room she would be safe, she was certain of it. The rest of her escape was one filled with close calls and artful dodging of the grasping, shadowy hands. Eventually she leapt into the next room, like a 100 m sprinter surging towards the finish line. She landed painfully on her knees in the next room. Thankfully, unlike the room before, there wasn’t a single source of light in the entire space. Pitch dark blackness engulfed. As she looked back into the light of the previous room, she could see the shadows lashing out at her from the light, but failing to set foot within the darkness. She rose to her feet, still panting from the escape. She hoped for a brief respite after three close calls in a row. Lorna stumbled away from the room’s entrance, leaving the Shadow monsters behind her. A hundred feet into the space, darkness completely engulfed her. In whichever direction she looked, there was not a single source of light. Not only that, but the ground beneath her feet was unusually even. No rubble from the ruins, no half-standing walls. A perfectly flat plateau in whichever direction she walked. It was an odd place, and based on what had transpired in the other rooms, likely also a dangerous one. Suddenly, Lorna knew she was not alone. There was some presence in the room, that much was certain, even if it was only announced by that foul smell... Blood? As a grave, unknown voice resonated in the distant walls, she turned towards its origin, only to see a pair of menacing, bright red eyes staring at her with a penetrating glare, surrounded by darkness." They told me you were death." He moved, not closer, but around her. He didn't fail to notice the problems she was having at following his movements." I've killed them, Lorna. All of them." He was hesitant, unsure, keeping his distance. You have changed. You can no longer see in the dark, can you?" They were human once. Not only the warriors. Some were old, or naive, or children, sorry recipients for a power they couldn't understand. But I made no distinction. They are all dead."" I don't want you to see me like this." The voice was still very different. What other tricks do you have in your sleeve, warrior from beyond? Where is your gear? Lost? That is the reason you are wearing that outfit?" I was here before, and they forced my hand then, too. To remove my restraints, to let my inner instincts take control, to give free rein to the hand that pushes me... To the hand of my master... That is what it takes to survive here and beyond." He got a bit closer, his figure still in darkness." You don't look the same to me anymore, Lorna. You look... fragile." Bertram? How did he get out? He killed them? All of them? How was that possible. When she had left him behind, a single Golem had brought him to his knees. Now he had somehow defeated all of them, even though he himself had said that he lacked the power to defeat just one? “Bertram, what is this all about? Why are you keeping a distance from me? And just how did you manage to defeat the Golems? I thought you said you lacked the power to even harm them…” I don’t want you to see me like this. What did he mean by that? Was he wounded? “What do you mean by seeing you like this? What’s different?” She moved closer to where he was standing, using his eyes as her bearing. “Come on now Bertram, I don’t feel like playing hide camp; seek with you. Show yourself to me. Properly show yourself. We have work to do, we don’t have time for this.” Suddenly she bumped into something. Or someone. “Bertram, is that you?” Her hand explored what was right in front of her. No, this couldn’t be the Minotaur. The skin felt rougher, harder. And his limbs were much larger than she remembered.“Who is this? Another trick? Are you trying to pretend to be Bertram in the hope of luring me somewhere?” She took a few steps back, but the creature made no threatening move towards her. Just what had happened to Bertram? And who was this creature in front of her, the one that tried to convince her of the fact that it was Bertram? Something changed in the beast's expression. Bertram. What was that? I had a name once. His name was Bertram. Look at her, she can't see a thing, she has lost her weapons, except the very one that can't help her in the dark. She is helpless. A perfect prey." Yes... Bertram. I'm Bertram. That is my name." Something changed in the voice, as it was again more comfortable, familiar. Fool. You're losing it. You'll die, you'll die later if you lose it. After a short wait, Bertram produced a light, as there were plenty of torches around, and he still seemed to carry the means to light one. For a single moment, his silhouette looked grotesque, enhanced somehow to hulking proportions that no longer were human, his face a mask of brutality and perversion, but... Was that a trick of the light, perhaps? Now, his figure was as familiar as always, a brute but elegant body made for the dancing stages of weapon battles, presided by a bull head serene and solemn... Although the impression was somewhat distorted by to the massive amount of foul-smelling blood around his entire body, blood that didn't look to be his own at all." I'm glad to see you alive, Lorna. I thought you were... lost to me. What happened to you?" She waved his question away. “Too complicated to explain… I don’t even know myself what exactly happened to me… What about you? I thought for sure you were gone when that chain-thing caught you. And now you’re telling me you destroyed it and all of its friends? Why didn’t you do that right away, would have saved me the trouble of running away.” Lorna had seen the strange flash of light that briefly accompanied a grotesque version of the Minotaur. But she wrote it off to her imagination. She had seen so many weird things in the last twelve hours that it wasn’t odd for her eyes to play tricks on her. “How about we move on? I want to get to your Master as quickly as possible. The longer it takes, the harder this’ll get. I think I just about am out of luck already. And to think, this mission was marked as medium risk… Medium risk, my ass!” She pulled Bertram behind her by the wrist as she guided him deeper into the depths of the dungeon.“We’re getting closer, aren’t we? That’s why we run into more and more creeps all the time. He keeps them here to keep outsiders away from him…” Lorna just about had it with thinking about the wizard. She wanted to see him, confront him, and dispose of him. It didn’t matter what she would do after that. Eventually they arrived at a new obstacle. A river in the middle of the dungeon. It ran so deep that it was impossible to see the bottom. And it was hundreds of yards across. That was only half of the problem as the waters were icy cold and wild.“Great… now what do we do?” She looked up at Bertram as if he could find them a motorboat. Bertram was surprised by Lorna's reaction. Perhaps he misjudged this woman who, after facing insurmountable odds and sure death, was nonetheless driven to continue forward, and would waste no time on explanations." I thought I was the guide here." Yet, he allowed her enthusiasm, even if he was not going to be part of it, and was happy just to tag along for a while." In any case, the city is a safe place now. As I said... They're all dead. We're going to find no resistance, for a while at least. Just be careful in what you touch, as I suspect there may be traps waiting for us, and everything will be fine. Just be careful when you take a torch, or any other kind of object, for example." Lorna was following just whatever main road went down, and it was not a bad choice." About your questions... Yes. Everything I said was true. I defeated the golems, and their masters, too. My hand was the one to spread blood and chaos in the city, leaving no one alive, and when you kill a puppeteer, the puppet falls with him. Even if the golems roamed and protected a vast area, the masters remained in their shelters, vulnerable.". The next words took a while to come, as if he had great difficulty bringing the issue to her attention." Know this: as we get closer to my master, his will grows on me. When I surrender to him, my nature... changes. I'm able to do things I couldn't do before. Make no mistake... Soon, it will make me your enemy. When this time comes, you need to remember your promise." Finally, they arriver at the river." I don't remember this place. This is not the path I followed, many years ago. The waters look rash and relentless, but I think I can swim my way across. Wait here, I'll search for a means to cross in the other side." And without hesitation, Bertram tested the waters. There was no way he could touch the bottom, and it took him an incredible display of strength just to stay floating. Fighting the currents would be a titanic task... But then, his strength was way beyond anything human, so he was able to progress, slowly, but with firm resolution. Everything was looking fine until suddenly, pulled by an invisible force, Bertram's body disappeared under the waters. Lorna realized that without some vessel to carry her across, she would have no chance at crossing the river. Even the insanely strong Minotaur struggled to fight the mighty currents, though he did slowly but resolutely move to the other side… until an invisible force pulled him down. “Bertram!” She shouted out, knowing that it was very unlikely her companion would ever hear her. Lorna moved back and forth along the length of the riverbank, near where Bertram had disappeared. After a few passages, she decided that no trace was left of the Minotaur. Whatever had taken him was very powerful. Swimming across was now even more out of the question than before. Perhaps there was some bridge or a narrow, shallow point where she could get across? Lorna started exploring the length of the river, looking for but not finding a way across. Two hours later, she came to a halt at a large rock and allowed herself to sit down on top of it and consider her options for a while. There was no point in turning back. Trying to swim across was suicide. And it didn’t appear as if there was a readily available way across. She was effectively stuck. Until she was reminded of the explosive rounds on her belt. An idea formed. The explosive rounds were created to clear obstacles. Concrete walls could be reduced to rubble with a single well-aimed shot. If she could bring down the ceiling of the dungeon onto the riverbed, she could create a make-shift bridge, or at least a shallow point that she could cross. She counted her remaining explosive rounds. Five of them. She had hoped to save one of them for the wizard, but there was little choice. One after the other, she aimed shots at the ceiling, bringing huge amounts of the rocky debris down onto the dark waters. Upon the fifth shot burying itself into the huge crevice she had created, she noticed that rocks started sticking up out of the water. She had filled the river bed with enough rubble to create a path. Taking careful steps, Lorna went from rock to rock, carefully placing her feet until she finally made it over to the other side. She was across, but still without her guide. “I’m sorry Bertram, but I have no more time to waste…” She took one last look at the river and then disappeared into a new dark corridor, at the other side of the river. The creature who was no longer called Bertram rose from the waters with a strong gulp of air. The past few moments were cloudy, difficult to remember. He had been fighting, struggling underwater, with some kind of huge beast attacking, crushing, grasping with killing intent. Fierce tendrils had pulled him down and forward, to the darkness and deeper below, while a powerful maw tried once and again to rip his head out of his body. Bertram was not strong enough to face such a foe, but he was no longer Bertram. The fight (the fight?) was over now, and the waters had already cleaned up the viscosity of the creature's entrails, although the odor will take longer to go away. Where am I? And where is she? The strong currents had been pulling for hours, now, but going back would be as easy as following the river back. Even easier now, as a powerful blast in the distance, followed with many sounds of rocks cascading over water, gave him the location he needed. So much for a helpless lady. You have no more use for your former guide, I see. Poor, poor Bertram. But I don't need him anymore. Let the hunt begin... Lorna had been traveling through passages for several hours now. Light was no longer a problem, and neither was freezing: the surroundings where now quite hot, with smoldering, even burning rocks here and there and the occasional lava patch making his way under the cavernous features. Perhaps the inner deeps of the caverns where home for some kind of volcano? Finally, the corridor opened to a magnificent vista that would solve any remaining doubts. In a cavern, big enough to contain a small country, a spectacular tower raised, defining the edge of a steep cliff, and heading over vast extensions of lava and rock formations. The tower itself should be of prodigious size, as hundreds of small windows and exterior passageways served to count at least twenty or thirty stories. From her position, she would need many hours, and a careful descent, to reach the main entrance. Who knows what kind of guardians could be protecting those steps? From this distance, none was visible. Was a direct route a wise choice, or perhaps an exploration of her surroundings could grant safer passage? Lorna slowly started to make her way down towards the tower. Was this the lair of the Wizard? If so, it had taken her considerably less than the two days Bertram had suggested. It had been a little over 24 hours ago that she had made contact with the Minotaur. Even if the trip to the tower itself took her five or six hours, she’d arrive well before the deadline he had proposed. Perhaps he planned to take some safer detour once they arrived here? No matter. To her surprise, an ivory white path lead towards the structure. Where the earth was dark and burnt outside the path, the path itself was pristine and completely clean. In fact, there wasn’t a mark on it, as far as Lorna could see. Odd… Likely more magic, perhaps from the hand of the wizard himself? She was getting closer. If she was in danger, it wasn’t very evident. As far as she could peer, she saw nothing but dark wastelands, cut in half by the ivory-white path. But no other structures apart from the tower, and no creatures lurking in on the dark dirt either. Nothing but desolate emptiness. Which was just fine by her. After the excitement of the last few hours, a bit of peace and quiet was a welcome change. Perhaps it was her imagination, but the ivory path seemed to allow her to move more quickly than before. After just fifteen or twenty minutes walking on it, she imagined she had cut the distance to the tower in half already. When she looked over her shoulder, she found out to her surprise that this was indeed the case… Did this mean that the distance to the tower was an optical illusion? Or was there really magic in play that allowed her to move faster as long as she was on the path? Either way, it was enough to make her come to a halt. If the “magic” worked for the rest of the way, she would arrive at the tower in fifteen minutes, only she had no plan or idea what she would do once she got there… How would she defeat the wizard? The path continued forward, in a twisty pattern around naked rocks and abnormal formations of earth and stone. The world outside the ethereal reality of the white steps was more and more shady and unappealing with each step, while some kind of supernatural, relaxing calm flooded Lorna's mind as she followed those pleasant ivory tiles. Why would anyone risk traveling the outer world, when this one over the white trail was so safe and inviting? As the tower approached, beautiful flower patches blossomed here and there along the path, exquisite arrays of every shade imaginable overwhelming Lorna's senses with mouthwatering scents and exotic fragrances. Finally, she was left in awe as the ivory path followed through the outer walls around the tower's vicinity, entering the most stunning garden she could have ever imagined. Luscious vines and climber plants warped around statues of extraordinary realism and charming poses, while countless flora of all species permeated the area with a peaceful rainbow of sensations, embraced with marble columns, handsome trees and lush foliage. The path itself finished in a bench that, like a king's chair, elevated over some small steps and would offer the best view over the entire garden, surrounded by strong vines and plants. The inviting sensation was more than overwhelming: never had Lorna felt a stronger inclination to just sit there and close her eyes for a little while, the events of the past day weighting heavily. The chair was so inviting, so relaxing, so peaceful... The bulky mass of muscle and strength climbed the outer wall of the garden and was rewarded by the exuberant view. So you are here already, warrior. Are you going to fall to such an obvious trap, denying me of the satisfaction of my fight in blood and honor? Are you not able to sense the danger, the precarious nature of your situation? But he controlled his instinct, toned down his savage drive, and the beast just stopped there. To watch. And listen. The chair… Why not sit down on it? It looked so comfortable. And she was tired. Needed a place to rest. A place to think of what to do next. Why not let her weight down onto the palatial throne? She took the last few steps towards the chair and climbed into it. Immediately, a feeling of deep peace and rest came over her. The tiredness was pushed out of her mind and she imagined her head being clearer than ever before. Just as she allowed her eyes to close, and she felt herself nearly slipping out of consciousness, she realized something was different. The chair itself was moving! When she reopened her eyes, the back and armrests of the chair had turned into the torso and arms of a monster. It was quite large, and its arms were now tightly wrapped around her waist. She flailed her arms and legs around wildly in an attempt to free herself, but it was to no avail. The headless creature stood up from its earlier position and started carrying her away. Now that it had raised up completely, it was well over eight feet tall. In long, slow strides, she felt herself being carried by the “throne” towards the tower’s entrance. So much for coming up with a plan. The monster made no attempt at communicating with her, it just seemed content to bring her inside the ivory-white tower. When they made it to the foot of the structure, she noticed the lack of a door or entrance. But when the Throne-monster got close enough, an opening formed itself – magic? – inside the white wall. The monster stepped through it, and she noticed the hole in the wall closed itself again after the creature had entered. Then the climb began. She was still locked tightly in his grasp when he started carrying her up a seemingly endless spiraling stairwell. If she had been in the position to count the steps, they would have numbered in the tens of thousands. Sometimes they would come upon a closed door, yet the throne-monster did not seem interested in entering any of them. Eventually they arrived at the top. A large room that took in all the top floor. A large fire at the center. And by it, a figure. She could not make out his face from underneath his dark-purple cloak. The throne monster just dropped her on the floor. When she turned back to face it, she noticed how the white marble substance it was made up off slowly started melting away, until the throne-monster was nothing but a white stain on the dark floor. She shivered in shock at the sight and turned back towards the cloaked figure. “You’re the wizard of this domain I presume?” The cloaked man turned casually and removed his hood, revealing the marked face of an aged man, abundant white hair twisting in disorder around hardened lines. His eyes stared at Lorna for a little while, with inscrutable intentions." You must be Lieutenant Lorna. My name is Morpheus. Welcome to my world." In a relaxed pace, the man approached." I'm sure you're eager to draw your gun and dump one of those explosive rounds into my skull, but I'm afraid that would be of little use. I don't come here unprepared, more so considering I'm quite familiar with your world by now. Oh, how much I love your technology, your views, your cities... Do you know my magic works perfectly there? Not only that, but there are no native magic users to be found. No competition! It is a lush fruit, ripe for the taking. In fact, I'm ashamed my influence was not quite enough there to prevent your team's unwelcome arrival, forcing me to deploy some of my beasts at your entry point. Of course, I've been improving my grasp there. For example, I was able to arrange, with no little difficulty, the lowering of this particular world's priority level to delta status, to make sure we don't have any more pesky visitors." He had been gesturing, doing something with his hands even as he was turning... Lorna suddenly started to feel the effects: a crushing sensation around her entire body. Magic. She couldn't move a muscle: with all her efforts she could barely lift a finger. She was still standing there, in the middle of the room, but whatever was pressing her body was not visible at all." Now, now... What am I going to do with you?" The wizard stepped around Lorna, carefully studying her." I'm surprised you are still alive. You even made friends with my poor scared Minotaur, Bertram as you call him. You are doing a great job teasing the poor beast with those outfits of yours. Poor, poor man... He has been alone for a long, long time... I've been in and out of his mind for this last day and let me tell you there is quite a turmoil there, with you at the center." The wizard approached her from the back and put her hands on her hips." He is now, of course, under my full, undivided control. Unfortunately, as much as his friendly and caring persona amuses me, I prefer the insane, bloody beast right now in command. As we speak now, he is storming this tower, right after your tracks, with only two things in his mind: to fuck you to death, and to tear you to pieces, quite literally." The wizard moved a hand towards Lorna's stomach, until he got a handle on her utility belt's buckle. With cautious movements he then proceeded to remove the belt, the leg straps, the gun holster, and the gun itself, leaving Lorna clad only in the blue and black skintight swimsuit." We don't want to give you a sporting chance, do we?" He was now about to leave when something caught his mind." Hmmmm, something is missing. Oh, of course, the minor trick I'm playing on you will probably be gone before my minion gets here, so we may want to make sure you're not going away..." He pronounced some arcane words, did some additional gesturing, and produced some object in his hands. He then forced Lorna's lifeless arms behind her back and a 'click' was heard. Some kind of metal handcuffs were now forcing her wrists together." Now, everything is complete. I'd like to stay here for a while, as I'm sure the spectacle will be breathtaking, but unfortunately I have a world to conquer: your world. So feel free to struggle all you want while your friend walks the path here: I assure you there is no escape. Farewell, Lieutenant!" And with those last words, he started to walk towards the room's exit, still carrying Lorna's weapon and apparel. Lorna tried to speak, but already the wizard was vanishing. Soon he was nearly entirely translucent, and eventually the last traces of him faded away into the void. She was left alone and bound by the wrist. The invisible barrier that had kept her immobile was waning now that Morpheus was no longer close. Likely the hold of his magic slipped the further he was away. That would explain how his control of Bertram’s mind had gotten stronger as they got nearer. She could hear the growls and grunts of the Minotaur as he climbed the stairs. Clearly he was no longer conscious of what he was doing but had morphed into an animal blinded by lust and rage. Eventually she dropped to her knees, freeing herself from the last of the magical grasp. She panted heavily from the stress and the tension on her muscles. Even a powerful and quick creature like a Minotaur would take some time climbing all of those steps. She had maybe ten minutes left before his arrival. How on earth would she get the restraints off her wrists by then? They were made of metal, so cutting them was not an option. She doubted his magic had conjured up a lock. When she looked down to the ground in front of her, she noticed that a single explosive round had slipped off her belt when Morpheus had undone it from her waist. Her mind went into overdrive. If she modified the shell for a slow burn instead of a swift explosion, it could be powerful enough to cut through the metal. She rolled on her back and modified the shell as they had trained her to do at the academy. It was more difficult than usual; since she had to do it all by memory and touch, not able to take a look at is whilst she was working. Eventually she forced it in between one of the rings of the chain that connected both wristbands, and she set it off. A bright white light came from behind her, and she could feel some of the intense heat as it radiated onto her skin, though not even to burn her. A minute later she could feel the metal giving, and she started to pull on her restraints. After two or three seconds, the ring was pulled to pieces and her hands were once again free. By then, the growls and grunts of the nearing Minotaur were already much louder. She had a couple of minutes left, no more than two or three. She got back to her feet and looked for a weapon. To her relief, there were some armaments in the room. She picked up a light, yet long sword from a weapon rack near the fire where the Wizard had been standing. They had been trained in the use of melee weapons, but there was no way she would be a match for Bertram. Still, it was better than to face him unarmed…

Multiverse Threat Elimination Force (RedEve, Crisis)|rating:4.0

Esper_ Santa Glevens [IC]

(Elevens is a modern, fictional city in California, USA. Our story begins on March 13, 1945, when a meteor named the Santa Elevens Meteor landed in Lake stead Park. On this day, our characters’ lives were never the same. Writers can refer to the calendar to plan role-plays with their peers. Certain days have key events or special activities that writers can choose to have their characters participate in or add some background to their plot. The GM will control the media and certain government types. SettingTechnology in the game is modern (2023) to fictional advances. Fictional advances are most things writers come up with using their imagination that realistically enhance an already existing technology. Mayor: Gary AstroPopulation: 815,201Location: Somewhere south of San Jose, but north of Los AngelesTransportationA. I. or Manual Personal Vehicle (self-driving or manual) Note: Manual vehicles are rare. A.I. Taxi. I. Subway. I. Bus. I. Monorail Major Telecommunication Companies Banana PhoneiMobileTeddizGovernment Entities SG Intelligence Bureau (SGI) – The intelligence entity in the city.SG City Police (SGCP) – This is a well-known patrolling entity. They wear a sophisticated armored suit with their badge visible on their chests to identify them. They perform multiple tasks such as car chases, drug-busting, riot-controlling, traffic guidance, investigations, etc.SG Reserve Guard (SGRG) – The SGRG have a base in Santa Elevens and are only deployed during emergency situations to assist with crowd control and rescue/recovery operations. Like the SGCP, they wear sophisticated armor. Known Criminal Organizations Red Dragon – This Asian mafia kidnaps women for sex and slavery. They will then sell the women to the rich. Other crimes they are known for are using these women to produce pornographic film, drug-dealing, and weapon trafficking. Every member has a dragon of some sort tattooed across their back. They also notably carry bananas. They control the Oriental District of Santa Elevens and won’t allow other gangs to step on their turf. Medved – Scandinavian/Slavic mafia who are known for their Norse-like beards and Viking-like hairstyles. They run underground fight clubs, deal in weapons, and have used their money to purchase advanced weapons technology, such as the Much that is supposedly in development. Almost every member has a beard and are named after a figure from Norse and Russian mythology. Moved owns multiple nightclubs in the area, and in the basements of these clubs is where they run their illegal fight clubs. A common trait about each of these clubs is they are primarily electronic music. Boca Local – Kings of drug dealing and petty thievery. While they are not as large or as organized and secretive as Red Dragon and Moved, they are the largest gang in the city. They do not have a preference for who they recruit. They will recruit anyone who is willing to make quick cash delivering drugs and other stolen goods to their bosses. The SGCP have the most difficult time busting Coca Local and shutting it down for good because there are so many people in the slums working for them. Notable Districts Oriental District – everything Asian is in this district. Its flashy lights, food, video games, and unique, electronic culture draw many teenagers. Most of the music concerts are held in this district featuring hologram A.I. artists like Satsuma Kilo and famed European A.I. Heidi. Government District – The headquarters of the SGCP, SGDG, SGI, and all other government entities operate in this district. This district only attracts tourism, for there is very little entertainment in this district. It is a hot spot for government officials, so the riffraff tends to steer clear of this district. Only college students and many middle-class residents in Santa Elevens live in this area (if they can afford it). Downtown - For those wanting to bar hop, check out clubs, cinema, or famous restaurants, Downtown is where you want to be. The Downtown never sleeps. It is also where the most crime is committed. Most of the gangs have the Downtown sliced up like a pie. Moved is supposedly the dominant gang in this district with Coca Local rivaling it. The Slums – The darkest, poorest, and most neglected place in the city. The streets are in bad condition and gangs will keep the potholes in the road to stop the cars of any tourists dumb enough to drive through. This is not a place you want to be caught walking through by yourself...or at all. Coca Local is the dominant gang in this area because nobody else wants it. Many mayors have promised to clean up and clean out the slums, and so far, none have succeeded. The Crater - A massive hole that was once a beloved park. It has been cordoned and quarantined due to the radiation. SGRG has been deployed to guard the site until scientists and SGI can finish investigating it. Player Created Locations To be created as players make them. Player Created NPCs These are NPCs all player characters may run into it. They are often owners of a business. In-Game News(3/19/2023)City-wide: 3/13/2045: A meteor has crashed into the city and destroyed Lake stead Park. Throughout the city are white tents where residents of SG go in, get screened, and emerge out the other end. Well, those who aren't poisoned with radiation at least. Some people go in and never emerge, and the SGCP are trying to ensure everyone is checked. GM Note: Esper's will emerge fine with no trace of radiation exposure.(3/19/2023) Underground: Since the meteor fall, gang activity has become eerily silent. Calendar([Select][float right or float left][IMG height=200]image link goes here[/IMG][/float right or float left][b]Name:[/b] [URL=link to your CS]Your character's name[/URL][b]Esper Type:[/b] Nicknames or aliases go here.[b]PL:[/b] 1-5[b]Wearing:[/b] Optional.[b]Date/Time:[/b][b]Location:[/b] Where are they?[b]Tagging:[/b] Who are they talking to directly? Who are they talking about? (add “(M)” for mention).[b]Content:[/b] Summary of the post or whatever you want here. Please color in red any sexual content if applicable (mainly if clothes come off) or nonconsensual content if applicable even is writing about NPCs.[hr] (3 am, the entire city trembled and blacked out. Darkness enveloped it. There wasn’t a single light shining, and a thick cloud of debris, dust, and the remains of what many would learn later to have been the park swallowed everything. People couldn’t leave their homes without inhaling the cloud. Homes, apartment complexes, and hotels were bustling, with citizens stirred from their slumber and all asking the same question: What is going on? And their question went unanswered. Phones, televisions, vehicles, and all electronics were dead in what many Americans feared to be an attack. Five minutes after impact, a ring of green energy expanded outwards, passing through the buildings like a phantom. It struck some people, while others several stories above it were safe. After the ring, there were no further disturbances until the power returned at 5 am.5am, the cloud had mostly settled, and the city was filled with the clamor of sirens. This is SG12 reporting live from the impact site.(thousands feared was an attack was instead an unfortunate assault from Mother Nature. A meteorite crash-landed in Santa Elevens at 3 am this morning and was responsible for creating a mass blackout. I am standing nearby what used to be Lake stead Park. Yes, folks, our beloved park is now a crater, and we currently don’t have a casualty count. The SGCP, Emergency Services, SGI, and even the SGRG, are here, investigating this site!6am, SGCP have advised us to keep our distance for there may be radiation surrounding the impact site. SGRG have cordoned the crater and kept hundreds of onlookers back. Emergency Services appears to be setting up some strange tents. Oh! I just received news that Mayor Astro plans to address the public at 8 this morning. This is SG12 keeping the transparency on your day-to-day news!(Mayor Gary AstroWearing: Standard black dress suit Date/Time: 13 March 2023, 0800Location: City Hall, Government District, SG Tagging: None Content: Mayor Astro is addressing the public in person via national broadcast. There was a pale and exhausted look on the mayor’s face. Since the impact at 3 am, he had been awake, and he could tell from numerous expressions in the crowd that they felt similar. He grasped the edges of the podium to keep his hands still. They had been shaking since late in the morning, and he didn’t want them to distract himself or the public. His blue eyes captured the people—his people—while what felt like clouds lingered behind his eyeballs. His brain…his mind felt so foggy that he wasn’t even sure he could speak, but he had to. They needed to know what was going to happen. He leaned slightly down to the microphone and spoke, “I apologize for my appearance. Like you, I was startled awake this morning, fearing that the city was under attack. My wife, children, and I were swept off to a shelter, and we stayed there in that miserable place until the power returned. Since the power’s returning, I received phone call after phone call after phone call about what had happened. Never would I have guessed or anticipated a meteor landing in this city. But I want to assure you, everything will be okay.” The crowd before him applauded and cheered as though soothed by his reassuring words. Astro smiled softly and continued, “I need to ask you all a favor. Emergency Services plans to screen every citizen who may have been affected by the radiation. This screening is for your protection. If you are feeling loss of appetite, fatigue, fever, nausea, or have been vomiting and having bouts of diarrhea, then please get screened at once. If you are already suffering a disease, illness, or cancer, then please get screened. As long as we cooperate and move swiftly, we can hopefully have the city completely screened by the end of April. I am going to be working hard to have everyone’s lives returned to normal, but I need your patience and cooperation.” Straightening his posture, Astro closed his eyes for a moment, feeling a mental fog. I have to keep it together, he told himself. He wanted to sleep. He wanted to walk away and curl up in the arms of his wife. Furthermore, he felt so exhausted he could cry, but his pride wouldn’t have him cry on national television. Furthermore, he opened his eyes and cleared his throat. “All local events and schools will cease operations until March 20th. I want to give Emergency Services time to manage the situation. If you work for the government or the city, you will take direction from your department directors. Stores and other businesses necessary for food, water, and other materials will remain in operation. Everyone, please take the time to rest and heal from this scare. We will get through this. For now, that is all I have to say. Thank you, and have a nice day.” The mayor was quick to leave. His bodyguards immediately followed next to him, guarding him against the barrage of questions as pockets of press chased him down. He scowled at the ground as he headed for his escort vehicle. He was going home, and he was going to cut off his phone for a few hours so he could rest. (Graves. (#msg16428176)Esper Type:Oppress.PL:3. Wearing:Under-dressed (for an Emergency. Date/Time:13 March 2045 • 4:00 Allocation:Downtown Santa Leavens Condo High-rise ⟶ Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging:Open. Content:No warnings. She wasn't asleep when it happened. Alex was perched on the spacious balcony overlooking the city, a neatly rolled joint between her slim digits as she balanced a laptop on her lap, her bare feet pressed against the cool steel railing. Her hair was a wild mess and the thin strip of satiny fabric she called a dress left little to the imagination. Just inside from the sliding glass panel was an enormous king-sized bed and buried somewhere beneath its plush make was one of the city’s top earning lawyers, a spunky blonde woman with a venomous reputation, who seemed to like her a bit more than was honestly reciprocated. She enjoyed the perks of playing occasional arm candy—a nice set-up in the city close to her favorite haunts when she didn’t want to be crammed into a dorm with her roommate, access to the finest medicinal herbs, valets and meals at her beck and call… and of course not having her name on any of it was the cherry on top. All for the very low price of occasionally blowing a hot lawyer, who was really winning here? She’d been busy catching up on coursework that could simply not wait after a late Sunday night on the town when all at sudden the city seemed to fall eerily silent, and a sound like a plane plummeting from the sky caused her light eyes to widen. She watched as the meteor streaked from the cloudy haze over Santa Leavens, and slammed into someplace not terribly far from the high-rise, enough to cause the ground to quake and a massive cloud to mushroom into the air from the point of impact.“HolyfuckingHELLWHATTHEFUCK!” There was a blinding flash from the impact of the crash, and from the quaint little park not far from her, she watched as a massive ripple of green light pulsated forth, sweeping over everything in its path not at all excluding Alex. Her laptop had dropped to the plated flooring of the balcony, and she rushed inside as the structure of the high rise quivered against the impact, grasping her boots and hurriedly stuffing her legs into them. Andrea was certainly awake now, looking positively shaken as Alex hurriedly snatched her denim jacket and threw her arms inside, rummaging through her purse for the emergency mesh KN95 wrap she kept within, winding it around her face and neck hurriedly.“What the fuck is going on?! Did you hear that?”“I saw it. Something just blew up the park…”“What?! Where the hell are you going?”“To check it out, obviously!”“Are you out of your fucking mind?! The police will check it out! This isn’t a fucking movie!—Alex!—Christ!—” With devious delight she rushed from the condo and took the lift down, watching through the plated glass as she descended toward the ground as particles of white smokey dust permeated the air and people began to rush between the pedestrian pathways. The AI powered vehicles had come to a dead halt, trapping travelers on the crowded roadways. She couldn’t help but to chuckle and muse to herself, If it’s an alien invasion you guys are so fucked! Precisely why I only use the metro—As the lift made the first floor she was almost instantly swept into a rush of a crowd. The emergency alarms were blaring, an automated kindly female voice directing the patrons and residents of the high rise to evacuate calmly, and they pushed past the doors there were uniformed men standing in wait, pressing protective visor buds into the hands of the frantic patrons. She placed the device into her ears and activated the visor, the invisible impenetrable strip sealing across her eyes to protect them from the bits of debris clouding the streets and sky. She tugged her scarf up over her nose, almost annoyed that she had little choice in which direction she was headed—the authorities were on scene almost immediately, herding them all into a massive gated area with heavy white tents and men and women in biohazard suits swarming the location. She could only assume that being very near ground zero was how they managed to get the quarantine zone up so quickly… and she was very much regretting not listening to Andrea and keeping her ass inside while the madness ensued in the streets below. (Kanagawa (#msg16431970)Esper Type:Abuser PL:1Wearing:Pink Tracksuit aka The Lazy Outfit (March 2045 • 4:00 AM>4:05? Location:SwiftUI > Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging:Alex Graves Content:Insomnia to Incidents! Admittedly, this was not particularly one of Era Hinayana's favorite parts of her routine in the past few weeks as she walked into the nearby SwiftUI for what had become very much at the heart of them. The usual burning ball of energy was stressed to the nines as it felt like a roulette wheel if she was going to have some nightmare about her mom burning down the dorm where she and a fling of hers were busy doing it. Hence, the beleaguered biology student had no chance of getting back to sleep after she was shunted awake in terror (and annoyed her roommate with her screams enough that they had been out at a friend's to with sleep on and off), so she was here for a muffin, maybe some other breakfast for the next time this was bound to happen, and whatever energy drink she could find. It was debatably a fortune she wouldn't be paying for that energy drink (or anything else for that matter) this morning as the small gas station having been filled with blinding light from whatever was going a few blocks. Especially when it had shrieking in her native tongue a cry of"Kite image, Kai-sama!!"as her terror and sheer lack of sleep crossed with one another. Era was hardly the most diligent in Shinto customs when not around her family (though she did enjoy the sentiment that everything had a spirit to it), but she was seriously wondering if those spirits were finally punishing her for that lack of familial piety when "off the clock" while still taking their money for tuition for the few seconds she swore the entire store was exploding. Thankfully, that was not the case. It was quite lucky the scanners on the way out were screwed by the cloud and the employees were hardly of the right mind just like she was from the blinding light as the bumbling geek stumbled out in a fit of embarrassment and panic with her apple cinnamon muffin, her equally apple-y energy drink, and a breakfast burrito. It was a logistical wonder her scrambling hands managed not to drop anything while taking one of those buds and inserting it into her ear. Furthermore, it felt like the first time in the past couple minutes she had the time to even scan about as the invisible strip made it far easier to see about in this blurry hell. At least one of the many pieces of clothing she had received from her flings happened to be this flexible track attire she was wearing. Sadly, she had no time to halt herself and get much more of a grip afterward though as all the panicked citizens were eventually corralled into a gated area like they were scrambling cattle. Era wasn't exactly if she was completely out or completely in place with her small bundle of breakfast food she carried along amongst people in various states of dress. Her eyes lit up though as the one thing she was happy to have in the sight of those tents and hazmat workers though was a familiar person a bit ahead of her. "Holy shit! Alex! Are you ok?!" She called out upon bustling forward, her food being crushed just a hint when the eccentric college student scorched to hug her tight with how glad she was that she happened to be safe! Alex however might have noticed Era's baggy eyes now that she hadn't put on any make-up to cover it up this morning yet. (Pope(#msg16433503)Esper Type: Esper.PL: 1. Wearing: Sweatpants, SGU Hoodie, and probably the wrong type of slip-on shoes Date/Time: 13 March 2045 • 3:47 AM Sgt; 9:00 Allocation: SGU Dormitory Sgt; Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging: Ava (NPC) | OPEN Content: The morning Lauren lost her roommate Lauren awoke to screams. Her brown eyes scrunched open, revealing the familiar, mostly bare walls of her cramped door room. It was dark. But there was no attacker, or fire, or explosion. Actually, there was nothing, except for —“FUCK KKK!” Ava. The person screaming was Ava. Lauren rolled off of her side and stepped off her bed, long, dark hair sweeping across her neck, as her bare feet popped against the cool, tilted floor. She looked over to her distressed roommate. Ava was also on said floor, though sitting, scrunched in a ball up against their shared, dormitory dresser, her phone death-gripped and in her lap. Its screen was black. “Fuck! FUCK! NOON, fuck fuck fuck!” Lauren blinked, and stayed where she was, next to her bed. Ava didn’t appear to be bleeding, but she was looking down, preoccupied and clearly in a panic. “He’s gonna break up with me! He already broke up with me!” Suddenly Ava jerked her blonde head upwards and glared at her. “Lauren!” Lauren blinked, again, at Ava, but stayed quiet, so that her roommate continued on her tirade. “You don’t understand! You slept through the whole thing!” As far as Lauren was concerned, the nighttime was, in fact, for sleeping. “The… The sky was green, Lauren, fucking green, and now the power is completely out…” At this Lauren reached with her wide wingspan to the light switch on, then off. Huh. Nothing happened. Lauren gave a slow nod, as if agreeing. “… And my phone— My phone is totally dead. You know what this means, Lauren.” Lauren blinked again, now simply waiting. And she didn’t have to wait long. “That fucking green sky did something to my fucking phone and now— and now I’m fucking fucked!” Now she couldn’t text her boyfriend back. Or, rather, her ex-boyfriend. Lauren watched as Ava’s delicate fingers tapped frantically on the black screen of her phone, trying to get something, anything, to work. Then she did one, big inhale, letting her shoulders drop in a relaxed position before finally speaking up. “Ava.” Lauren’s voice was softer, lower than one might expect. “You and your partner should resolve things in person.” Her hand tapped the lights again. Still nothing. It was hard to know what time it was when all their clocks were on dead phones. “As for the sky, if it did cut the power and your phone, then the city will announce something. If you—” Ava glared at Lauren again, and she corrected herself, loyal to her roommate, “if we go to the lounge, we’ll be the first ones to see the PSA.” “No power, no communication, Lauren. We’re going to have to sit on our asses in the dark all night long.” Thankfully, Ava overreacting, at least about the dark. A little while later the power kicked back on, and the large screen in front of the couch Lauren was attempting to rest on illuminated the room. Next to her Ava visibly relaxed, then frantically started typing, square after square of conversation appearing one after the other on her screen. Was Ava afraid of the dark? Lauren watched her roommate for a moment before switching to the news, and settling in for more waiting. As the hours passed, the room filled with more dorm students, each waiting to hear what the authorities would relay, until eventually, after sunrise, the Mayor’s serious face appeared on the screen. The green sky… was real? “I fucking new it, Lauren, I knew it! A fucking meteor fucked my phone!” Ava had never said that. Not exactly. But at least they had answers now. They could go back to bed and let the government and the university handle it. The Mayor already had a plan, a month-long plan, and it seemed like a good enough plan to Lauren. She started to rise from the couch, tugging the hood of her SGU Gargoyles sweatshirt over her dark head. “Where are you going?” This time Ava’s voice was small. Small and scared. “Back to bed?” It was still so early. It wasn’t even 9 am yet. What else was Lauren supposed to do other than go back to sleep? “But Lauren… If the meteor fucked my phone it fucked us too. We were in its path. The radiation… you heard the Mayor. We were radiated too, just like my phone. We’re probably dying. Furthermore, we need to get ourselves checked to make sure we aren’t dying.” Panic. Apparently, Lauren was supposed to be panicking, like Ava was. Lauren swallowed, but remained calm as Ava looked at her, pleaded with her. “Please don’t make me go alone.” The Mayor said it would take a month to get everyone in the city properly screened. Lauren hoped maybe Ava could go in solo, and Lauren could just wait on the other side for her and get screened later, hopefully in private, but once they got to the Quarantine site it was… Well, everything bad you’d expect a Quarantine site to be. There were too many lights, too many tarps, too many hazmat suits and far, far too many people staring. “Come through!” Lauren felt like she was being pushed and pulled in every direction, her brain trying and failing to keep up with what was actually happening. The screening was… a screening. “Ava,” Lauren breathed under her breath, trying to stay close to her roommate, trying to stay close to the person who needed her, but it was hard. “Come through! Next!” Most of the strangers pushing up against her were wearing street clothes, or pajamas, probably from the city center, or closer to the meteor crash site. “Next!” They kept getting closer and closer to… what exactly? What was about to happen when they were screened? They should have waited. They should have stayed at the dorms, where it was safe and quiet. Now Lauren could see it. Big, metallic scanners where lots of people could watch you. “Ava,” Lauren caught her roommates arm, tugging her back to her. They could leave. They did not have to participate. Furthermore, they could run. She could run, and pull Ava with her. Lauren was great at running.“Next!” But suddenly Lauren was in front of one line and Ava was in another. Her hands fell to her sides, hopelessly obedient to the scientists in intense protective gear. “Walk through!” Lauren moved as the entire set up seemed to fall silent, she closed her eyes, and breathed. “Good. Stay to the left, see a nurse upon exit for your clearance ID.” She opened them, and followed where the scientist’s gloved hand pointed, along a wall of clear, hanging tarps. What was a clearance ID? Her brown eyes squinted to the end of the long, white tents. The nurses seemed to be outside. That was a good sign. She was probably good to leave this whole mess. “Lauren!” The tall girl turned her hooded head, having forgotten to look next to her. On the other side of the wall of clear tarp was her roommate. “Ava,” Lauren breathed and walked up to the see-through tarp. They could walk to the exit together. They could get out of here. Then a person close to Ava leaned over and vomited. Another clutched their stomach. Another was so drenched in sweat it stained their pajamas. Lauren’s brown eyes were suddenly frantic with realization. Ava was on the wrong side of the tarp. Ava wasn’t going to see the nurse at the end.“Ava!” Lauren’s hands went up to the tarp, staring at her roommate who appeared fine. She looked totally fine, totally healthy. Exactly the same as yesterday, even. The screening had made a mistake. “Ava!” Her roommate just looked at her with glassy eyes as Lauren’s firsts clutched at the tarp. “Ava! Let me go, please!” She struggled as one of the scientists in hazmat suits pulled her off of the tarp, and down the long, white tent. Ava got smaller, and smaller, and smaller, until Lauren couldn’t see her at all. She... Ava was gone. “Wait.” Lauren gasped to the hazmat stranger as she found herself outside, with a crowd of other, tired but healthy strangers, waiting for a nurse to tag them as negative for radiation, “I’m her roommate. If something is wrong with her, then something must be wrong with me too.” She couldn’t tell if the scientist was looking at her, or looking through her as they let her go without any further explanation. Lauren looked back at the tent, in a maze of long white tents, and tried to breathe. Just breathe. The meteor had struck less than twelve hours ago, and lines were already being drawn. (De Silva (#msg16436290)Esper Type:Esper (Codename to come)PL:2Wearing:As Pictured with a light brown furry jacket (March 2045 • 3 Am > 4:15 Allocation:Downtown Starbucks > Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging:OPEN (Era and Alex mentioned)Content:Morning coffee and studies lead to a startling surprise. Camille's routine for the past few weeks was as boring as they come. Wake up at around 3 Am, take a quick shower, get dressed and then, take her laptop and backpack with her to the nearby Starbucks to catch up on her medical studies that she was not able to finish up the night before. Her first class started off at 7 Am so she had to be up as early as possible to be ready for any pop quizzes that her professor might give to her and the rest of her Pre-Medical Studies classmates. Sitting at her favorite spot next to the window, she knew that she was a target for having her laptop stolen but so far, she was very lucky not to have someone break the window and swipe it away. Reading through various words files and PDFs, she thought that it was going to be a normal day until....KABOOM!!! Instantly, she looked out of the window to see a bright light in the distance. At the same time, she felt the ground shaking like an earthquake was happening, but this was no earthquake caused by natural means. Freaking out, she instantly dove under the table to shield herself from any falling debris that might have come down on top of her." Holy SHIT!!" She screamed out in total fear while waiting for the earth to stop moving from underneath herself. Once the movements underneath her stopped, she slowly looked up over the table to see the devastation surrounding her. Windows that were once there were completely shattered into small shards, including the one that she was sitting right next to. Up in the sky, she noticed that the black early morning sky turned to a green color." What the hell? She asked herself before trying to get back to her laptop. Nothing. The laptop was dead. It would not turn on at all after getting destroyed by the shattered glass of the window that crashed down on top of it. Turning to her phone in the pocket of her jacket, she reached for it and tried to turn it on as well... nothing. It was almost as if she was in a panic for the first minute or so. Questioning about what happened to the barista, she was just as terrified as Camille was. Outside, Camille could hear a lot of panicked screams as the authorities were trying their best to guide the very few people that were running towards a larger crowd. Taking a few of the napkins on the table, she swiped off the glass from her laptop before putting it in her backpack hoping that she could save the data that was in the hard drive. Getting up off the chair, she went outside towards the crowd and followed them to wherever the authorities were leading them to. Eventually, she was led towards a few makeshift tents that were slowly starting to be built where people were being lined up by the authorities. Off in the distance, she could see two people that she may have crossed paths with in the school. If she knew the two women better, she might have approached them but for now, all she could do was wait and see what all of this fuss was about. (Davion Cole (#msg16431967)Esper Type: Esper PL: 3Wearing: UnderArm our Compression Shirt, Gym Shorts, Running Shoes Sgt; LSU Sleeveless Shirt, LSU Sweatpants, Air Metro'state/Time: 03/13/2045 | 3:00am Sgt; 9:00amLocation: A few blocks from Lake stead Park Sgt; Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging: Lauren Content: Early AM workout ends in unconsciousness Sgt; State of the Union address 2045 edition Usually, Davion would already be in bed because Mondays were particularly brutal practices. But they had a bye-week this week, and because they were one of the top-ranked teams in the country, coach was generous and gave them the day off. Ironically enough, being unable to sleep left Davion with only one solution to tire himself out. A jog around the campus, out into the city, wherever his legs took him until he was drenched in sweat and his muscles screamed. He left his dorm room at around 2, and just went. He had no direction in mind, and just let his body do what it did best. Thankfully he had remembered to bring his HoloLens headset that let him listen to music, or watch shows and movies on a holographic screen right in front of him. It also had AR capabilities and kept you from running off the road or into things with early warning software. The best thing about technology like that was it took the boredom out of fitness and made it so much easier for people to focus on the gains because they had something to take their minds off the pain. Davion had a nice rhythm set up between speed and endurance and was making good time. He was about an hour into the run, and pausing his show for a moment, he realized he was near the park. Maybe he could swing by, chill on a bench and feed the ducks or something. Deciding that he'd do exactly that, he hung a left on Belmont Ave and started closing the distance between himself and Lake stead. Right when he got close enough that he could see the entrance and maybe make it in less than a hundred steps, this weird noise started ringing in his ears. It was like a rocket or a missile when they zoomed in on it in movies, and you could hear the jet fuel burning in the thrusters, but...but it was different. This was that, but on steroids. It was so close that the sound was annoying to his ears. He looked up wondering what it was, but with all the light pollution in the city, he could barely make out what he saw before the impact. But what he saw terrified him. A massive meteor hurtling toward the planet with a trail of smoke and fire flailing wildly behind it. It would've been beautiful if it wasn't so close and so damn big. With only moments to panic and duck for cover, the meteoric impact was so massive and all-encompassing that when the giant space rock hit terra firma, he saw a flash of white so bright it blinded him, and directly after the pressure wave tried to blow out his eardrums while knocking him off his feet and sending him tumbling into the hood of a car. His legs clipped the vehicle, and he flipped completely over it, landing hard on his back and head just before the dust enveloped the surrounding area like an angry, brown wave. Thankfully, Davion was unconscious as soon as he hit the ground. When his eyes fluttered open a few minutes later, the pain shooting through his back and the intense pounding in his skull made everything else secondary, but as he stood up he realized dust was falling off of him like sand at the beach, and it was dark. Not normal dark, but pitch black. It was so dark that the only light in the sky was the moon and the stars, and he was close enough to just barely see that Lake stead Park was now...nothing. "What the fuck happened? Ahhhh shit, my head. Did we get bombed? No...that was a meteor. Jewish fuck, oh holy fuck thank you GAWD!" He threw his hands up and shouted into the darkness because he remembered what had killed the dinosaurs, and Tunguska had flattened nearly 900 square miles of forest. So the fact that he was so close and still alive had him jumping for joy despite the pain. All the happiness vanished in an instant however, replaced with horror and confusion when a vividly green line of energy pulsed out from where the meteor had hit. The energy moved so fast that Davion didn't have time to contemplate what he was looking at, much less get out of the way, and without his consent, the ring passed right through him. Immediately panicking, he started patting himself all over, wondering if he was going to die or melt into goop. Nothing happened though. And after five seconds turned into thirty, thirty seconds turned into a minute, and a minute turned into five, he could only assume he wasn't going to explode or something right then. The only effect he noticed was that he felt like he should've been in more pain than he was, but he wasn't. He figured it wasn't smart to stick around for whatever the fuck this was, and with his phone and all his other tech dead, he was thankful he knew his way around. He sprinted back to the dorms like a man possessed, bumping into this and that on the way in the utter inky blackness of a city without power. Furthermore, he did make it home though, and the water was still running so he could at least take a shower and get all the dust and grime off. Furthermore, he hadn't been tired before, but he was definitely tired now, and after drying off he fell onto his bed and was asleep in moments. His sleep was interrupted several hours later by loud Neo-Rap blaring through the sound system in his room, and he shot up and right off the bed onto the floor. "Ahhh!" His eyes were wide, muscles taut, and a look of confusion controlled his face while he looked around his room. He'd been dreaming about the meteor and how it had squashed him flatter than a pancake, but clearly, that had been a nightmare. Once the drowsiness wore off, he realized the lights and power were back on, so he shut off his alarm and turned on the news, hopeful of someone being able to tell him something. The Mayor was on the screen and addressing the nation, talking about what happened this morning and what the plan for it was. It sounded like a good plan, but Davion was a little fearful that he had radiation poisoning and just didn't know it yet. Not wanting to risk finding out much, much later, he threw on some clean clothes and headed to the closest Quarantine Checkpoint he could find. Stepping into line when he got there, he was already texting his friends on campus to see what they knew and if they had an experience. He kept his own close encounter to the chest obviously but saw no harm in finding out what he could. When he got close to the scanners, he started paying attention to the process from the people in front of him. He was right behind a girl that had to be pushing six feet and was wearing SGU colors. Not many of them on campus so he started racking his brain trying to figure out who she was while she went through the scanner. He came right after her, following the instructions to the letter and hoping that the scanner didn't start blaring red and declare him infected or something like that. His fears were unfounded, and just like the girl in front of him, he went through with no issues and was told where to go to get his ID. Then there was a commotion and the girl was trying to get to her friend on the other side of the tarp. Her name was Ava, and she was calling for Lauren. Lauren? He only knew one Lauren who was that tall. Pope. She was in the gym almost as much as him, so it was impossible for him to not know her. He just couldn't figure it out from behind while she had a hoodie on. Ava was probably her roommate if they were here together. Now that he knew who she was though, he hurriedly caught up and put a hand on her shoulder as the hazmat guy let her go. "Hahaha, don't listen to her, sir," he said with a nervous and awkward laugh someone would give in a situation like this. "We're all just tired and confused." He nodded and waved to the scientist as they turned away, then he leaned toward Lauren's ear. "Are you fuckin' crazy? Don't tell the faceless scientist in level A Hazmat gear that you're sick too. That's a quick way to get snatched up. You can't help Ava if you're sick with her, so let's get our Clearance ID's, then see who we can talk to about the people who didn't get the all-clear." It was awful seeing her like that, especially after they took Ava away. But what could she really do right here and right now aside from potentially get herself in trouble too? "Come on, Pope. We'll figure this shit out, I swear." (Ashford (#msg16437035)Esper Type:Esper PL:3Wearing:Tank top, sleeping shorts Date/Time:13 March 2045 • 2:45-3:10ish Allocation:SGU Dormitory > Downtown Quarantine Checkpoint Dragging:OPEN Content:No warnings Ring…ring…ring… Livia's hand searched, moving frantically across the covers up to the nightstand trying to find her damn phone to stop the incessant noise. Glancing at the clock, of course causing it to fall to the floor with a thump.“Fuck…” She slapped the light next to the bed so she could retrieve the obnoxious piece of technology, swiping the bar on the screen to answer.“Mother. Do you not realize what time it is? Just because it’s almost six in the morning there doesn’t mean that it’s time to call to check on me!” She made the mistake of taking a deep breath to calm down, reminding herself that this was her own flesh and blood on the other end of the line. The lack of respect caused her mom to start a tirade, which she wasn’t in the mood for. So the good daughter that she was, she stood there in her sleep shorts and a tank top taking the scolding.“Yes… I understand…but mom it’s not even 4am yet. No I…well yes I get up between 3:30 and 4, but…” She tries to not huff in her ear in agitation, walking to the window to open it up and look out at the city lights below. Of course her normal routine every morning, and mind you that she hates to be thrown off her schedule, is to wake sometime before 4am to hop in the shower before all the hot water is gone. She then usually goes out for a run around campus to stay in shape, being one of the starters on the university soccer team. Yes…yes, the shower before running? She always makes sure to either grab another one when she gets back or freshens up with a sponge bath. Nothing a little cologne wouldn't take care of. Then to breakfast and classes, which most started at seven to accommodate for practice and games. The older woman continued on to tell her that her brother had gotten into some trouble over the evening, but what else was new, being the baby in the family it had its perks. She nodded, then realized her mother couldn’t hear that, clearing her throat to add something to the conversation, but instead stopped when the dorm shook so hard she thought it was an earthquake followed by a deafeningBOOMEverything around got dark and silent, the sound of her mother’s voice disappearing as the world came to a standstill. She looked back out towards the park, a dense fog surrounding everything closely. Standing there a few minutes in shock, she saw the ring of eerie green light of energy move out from the impact area on through the building and me.“What the hell was that? Mom?” She looked down at her phone, tapping on the dead screen.“No, no no mom?” She rummaged in the drawer in the nightstand to find a flashlight praying that it still worked, the beam of light appearing quickly.“Are we being attacked? Fucks” She ran around the room looking for her shoes, sounds of distant screaming, a broken window maybe, commotion in the streets outside. After what seemed like hours, when in fact just minutes, she stepped out of the door into the crowded dark street, choking on the thick smoke of debris in the air. Covering her mouth she pushed through the people wandering about towards the park a few blocks away from campus to try to find out what was happening.

Esper_ Santa Glevens [IC]|rating:3.0

Dartmouth Dust IC

It's Market Day in Hanover. In an earlier era, that would have described a bustling, cheerful scene; a crowded marketplace full of neighbors happily gossiping as they shopped for whatever might catch their eye. On this late summer day in 2016, the weather is beautiful, but the few people wandering around the courthouse square are deadly serious. With winter only a couple of months away, getting some good bargains could mean the difference between adequate rations and near-starvation. Most of the merchants are farmers, with animal-drawn carts of farm produce, both plant and animal. Buyers carefully eye tables of junk parts, keeping careful poker faces to avoid betraying their excitement at finding the serpentine belt they needed. A middle-aged man dressed in buckskin slowly takes a gold band off his left hand and, after the merchant's careful examination of it, exchanges it for two large bags of salt that he puts across his horse's back. George the miller and his son George Jr. arrive late, sweating under their rucksacks full of bags of flour for those who don't grind their own. The scene would look charmingly quaint if it weren't for the rarity of smiles and the abundance of paranoid glances, even though most of the folks know each other on a first-name basis. One beat-up card table does elicit a few grins as two young boys (one still losing his baby teeth) try their most dramatic sales pitches in an attempt to barter away some old books and papers. The nurse practitioner and the dental hygienist (known as Doc Morgan and Doc Sanders) have lines of people in front of their home/offices, in prime real estate on the court square, as does the gunsmith, Blake Lewis. There really aren't many folks who live more than two blocks from Court Square in Hanover anymore - the rest of the town is empty buildings, long since ransacked for anything useful. Folks out on the farms don't leave their homesteads much, so they use Market Day as an opportunity to see the professionals and craftsmen they need in town, with baskets of eggs and handfuls of .22LR ammunition as payment. Victor MathersVictor sidles into the square, trying hard to look like he's not there. He walks stiffly, and quickly from one stall to the next eying the wares and running his fingers through the collection of knickknacks he may be able to hawk in his pocket. He is dressed in what was once black jeans, and an off-brand black t-shirt. The jeans are torn and frayed almost up to the knee, and now more dirt than black. I've got to find some food or something. My supplies are all but gone, and there's no chance I'm going to last the winter without coming up with some more. He looks up, scans his surroundings and sees... Jimmy SavaloyMarket Day, one of Jimmy's favorite days of the week, it was the day he could stock up on essentials and look for exotic unusual food to supply his passion, not that exotic meant much anymore... Today Jimmy is dressed in a flannel shirt, jeans and has an apron tied round just his lower half of his body. The Apron is flecked with flour. Jimmy loafs around the Market taking his time over each stall, he's not much else to do this fine morning, he spies a scruffy looking younger man he doesn't recognize;"Mighty fine morning sir... hey there, I don't recognize you, do I? You knew round here or just passing through? Wayne and Johnny Boy, they're doomed, they're doomed to wander, wander far and wide~Wayne huffed slightly as he worked. He had set up a small, impromptu mini-clinic outside the doctor's office. It was a bare minimum, really. Just a couple planks set up on sawhorses for an operating table, piece of PVC piping, impaled with a nail, plugged into the ground for the catheter bag to be held upright. There was also a bit of bedsheet he had bartered for to cover it, and the doctor took whatever payment he could get. His son helped him, and though the boy had a good heart, the remains of their darker days could still be seen in him." So why are we helping them again?" Asked the young man, as the doctor improvised a cast out of the remains of a wooden plank. The slivers of wood would help the leg set, but as it was the wasteland doctor was still running off bare-bones surgery. Ha. Bare bones. Oh, thatwas a good one." Because," He said, "I need you to finish up here. I'll see if the doctor inside can spare any medical supplies." The young man let out an impertinent sigh as his father stood back. The boy had learned a bit from his father's work-they hadn't scrounged up enough to get a more permanent residence set up, but here, on Market Day? Well, it was as good a place as any to scrounge what they could from the farmers, see if they could get any bullets forged by the gunsmith for the coming winter. The banditsalwayscame around that time of year, looking to take what little they had. His son had suggested joining them a handful of times, but it was half-hearted- neither of them had the will to return to that degree of viciousness anymore. Death had taken enough people at their hands. Walking in, he politely tried to edge around the crowds, looking for the doctor. He hadn't spoken with the man since they set up shop, and he hoped that he would be willing to just give them some supplies-especially since they were lightening his work load. Barclay marchin' down from the mountain At the same steady pace that had let him cross half the continent, Barclay came down the road into the market down. He had a few odds and ends to trade, 8 empty cases he wanted reloaded, and a prosthetic that he would like to get checked out, just a check-up. New comer's always get odd looks, but Barclay might have got odder looks than before, the spring in his step a literal one, the buffalo cap on his head, and the bandolier of rounds glinting in the light. He made his way over to what looked like a doctor, or what passed for the doctors. Dropped his bag at his foot, and stood at a position of ease.' I say Doc, would one be able to make an appointment?' He said, his upper class British accent clear and polished, perhaps a little too polished to help reassure the yanks he met of his good intentions. Beaufort's Seat of Law: Stationed in a sturdy reclining lawn chair, dark green uniform jacket, tan slacks, and a crisp state trooper's hat, Beaufort Mayville surveyed the populace with a patient gaze. The traditional county sheriff's uniform that Beaufort had once worn became ravaged in his escape from North Haverhill. But the six pointed star which identified his authority was clean and gleaming in the light over his left breast. Market Day posed great interest to Beaufort, though not for the reasons that it did for other citizens. The verbal agreement that he had made in Hanover stated that he would provide peace-keeping law enforcement in exchange for weapons, munitions, room, and board. But while he could gaze with clarity down the lane between the now defunct parking meters, Beaufort hated to leech. Two wooden crates sat on the far end of the table beside him each one full of canned food. Dan Dirk, a former Hanover police officer, had helped him with the table which now housed a stack of paper, pens, and many spent bullet casings in need of primers that he had found. No price or barter tag came from Beaufort's table as he kept eyes between both sets of work. Being a public notary was an endless job and the county sheriff could see a number of faces in the market that he had drafted birth, marriage, or death certificates for. It amused Beaufort endlessly to think that most of the pack animals were now tied to the parking meters. A few new faces caught the sheriff's interest. He did not recognise them from the nearby areas of Norwich, Wilder, or Etna. None appeared immediately dangerous, but most of the individuals at market seemed to favor a public display of firearms. While making an effort to smile under his thick white mustache and raise a hand to those who acknowledged him Beaufort continued to attend the local business. Doc Morgan pokes her head out of her office and raises an eyebrow at the newcomer with the artificial leg." You take him, Dr. Richardson. I've got no experience with prosthetics." She ducks back inside, then a moment later tosses a small bottle toward the visiting sawbones." Tincture of Benson. In case his stump is getting blisters. Make sure I get a cut of whatever he barters with." Jameson "James" Buchanan James wandered the marketplace, looking not at the wares on sale, but at the people. He needed to leave the town, and for that, he needed a traveling partner. Scanning the area, he noticed a boy of about nineteen, sitting at a surgeon's table. The boy looked like he had been on the road for a while, but without success: James noticed the boy's eyes were like deep holes, a sight far to common outside the safety of the monastery. Walking up the boy, James planted his oak staff in the dust of the road, and crinkled his warm brown eyes at him." Excuse me, son, do you and your pa need a guide?" James asked. Wayne nodded back to the doctor as he left, "We could use some extra splints if you have any! And something for an anesthetic, if God is willing enough to provide. I've had enough screaming to last me a lifetime with some of them!" He added a chuckle at the end, re-emerging before offering his hand to the man with the prosthetic." Good afternoon! I'm Doctor Richardson-you can just call me Wayne, though. What can I help you with?" He asked, "It's not often we get many foreigners around these parts." Outside, John looked up from his latest patient, turning back to see his father speaking with the man in the doorway. Rubbing his eyes of a bit of stray plaster, he shrugged. "I leave most of that sort of stuff to pops-for the time, we're just staying here, I guess. Why, where do you usually ferry people to, sir?" Jameson Buchanan"To wherever they need to go, usually. I'm from Eastern Tennessee myself, and I've been traveling on foot for as long as I can remember. I've been walking the Blue Ridge for so long I know it is like the back of my hand. Any kinda rocks or mountains, and I can take care of them. Just wherever you all need to go, I'll take you there." James sighed, and looked the boy straight in the eye. His voice lost the boasting quality it had, and hardened." In all honesty, I've offended the Abbot of that monastery over yonder. I need to skip town, but 'taint bright to go off on foot without no traveling partner. I wouldn't be askin' much fer my services but y'all company, and help when I need it. Don't worry, I'm a harmless old man, ain't but some dispute over the nature of God. I understand if you need t' talk to yer pa first, but I just wanted you to understand where I'm coming from." At that moment there is a tremendous blinding light - filling the sky, but originating from the southwest. It is not accompanied by any sound or shock wave...yet. In an earlier era this would have been a mystery, but almost everyone in Hanover instantly knows it for what it is - a distant atomic or nuclear explosion. Barclay'Well Doctor, I'm glad to meet you, I've been wandering your fine country for a while now.' He shook the doctors hand, with a firm and calloused grip. He opened a side pouch of his Bergen, and took out a plastic bag, one of the cheapest, most useful, plentiful bits of refuse that was reused by nearly everyone.' I have walked from the Cascade's to here, and isn't often I get to see a Doctor what with you American's not having an NHS'He smiled at his lame joke.' So I'd like a check-up, see if you can catch anything before it goes wrong, I got a little cash...' By which he meant the gold and silver coin's that were the only form of currency to retain value, rather than the worthless paper.'...or I have these,' meaning the bag'Beaver Glands, They seem to do the trick as a painkiller'He turned as the explosion filled the sky, this was the closest he'd ever been to one.' I say!' He looked at the Doctor, to see what the reaction was, while following his standard NBC procedure's, may hap there was a bunker or shelter here. "Poor bastards." Doc Morgan jumps up on a box." No need to duck and cover folks, that was pretty far away." She gets down, but motions to the sheriff and Dr. Richardson. She confers with them quickly in hushed tones; only those standing around the medical area are able to hear:"There's no immediate danger, true... but we're screwed. That fallout is going to travel this way on the jet stream in a matter of days, or even hours. I've got enough Potassium Iodide tablets to protect everyone from most of the harmful effects initially, but... the food, the water in this area... could be like Chernobyl or New York City all over again. God help us, I don't know what kinda folks set off weapons like that when everyone's on the edge of starvation to start with." Victor MathersVictor had been searching through a pile of nuts and bolts when he had been addressed, and it had taken him a while to realize that the comments were directed at him. He jerked his head up with a start, looking for the source of the voice right as the bomb fell. Crap. As if things couldn't get any worse... Well, I guess it's not just me now. He felt some kind of sick pleasure at knowing everyone was in the same boat as he had started in, but at the same time he realized things were bad. This was worse than when people had started leaving, it was worse than the first fallout. Yeah, he could go hide in one of the lecture hall basements again, but he didn't have the supplies to out last the radiation again. It was time to move, what with winter coming and everyone running out of food...*A string of exploitative followed by*Would it be trite to say 'looks like we're screwed?' Beaufort And Reckoning: Still in conference with Doctors Morgan and Richardson, Beaufort pronounced in an airy but emphasized tenor pitch, "Everyone will be coming here. Between I-eighty-nine and ninety-one we won't be able to get out of the way fast enough. We need to evacuate the town fellows out from under the cloud and off the main road fast...preferably onto a fallow area several hundred feet above sea level. Noticing that Dan Dirk had moved into the little social conference circle while he was speaking, the sheriff conveyed quietly, "Dan, please grab the evacuation stash and the water tanker for the civilians. I'm going to take my pemmican, weapons, and maybe some volunteers north for a raid and see if I can loot my old ranch and gun shop. "Going too far north is winter-suicide. I would prefer not to make war with Vermont or Canada if it can be avoided. But we need a meeting point after my raid. Any thoughts?" At his question, Beaufort's green eyes and ears take in the little group that has collected around the doctors and the male amputee. Wayne's smiling demeanor at the newcomer vanished as he saw the distant atomic fire begin to build up. His face turned into a horrified frown as he realized the full implications of this-someone, somewhere, had not only got their hands on one of the deadly world-ending devices, but haddetonatedit! Madness did not begin to describe what happened, and as he instinctively looked over to his son, he saw the boy was as slack-jawed about the whole affair as he was." The beaver glands will be nice..." He said somewhat lamely, taking a deep breath. He had survived the apocalypse once, and even as the growing mushroom cloud prompted him to run back home, he forced himself to remain rooted to the spot. Running wouldn't set a good example for John, nor would standing there like a blubbering idiot." I suppose I'll join the raid to the north. I can't speak for my boy, but if one of you gets hurt or takes a wrong step, we'll need every able body we can to survive. Furthermore, I only ask that we take a stop at any hospitals along the way to stock up on supplies-we may have radiation medicine, but with an influx of people running our way, we're sure to get plenty of other problems springing up." Doc Morgan"If some of you are going on this raid right away, I can tell the rest of the town and the farms that we'll have to abandon the area. Who's going? Sheriff, what should I tell the Judges when they show up?" Doc Morgan's coworker, a midwife everyone calls "Margaret," shows up with a plastic basin full of sandwich bags, each of them containing a half dozen pills. A nod from the nurse practitioner, and Margaret passes them out. Doc Morgan takes a pill out of her bag and gulps it down dry, then adds,"One per day taken orally until they're gone, preferably with plenty of water." Finally, the rumbling sound of the explosion is heard, like thunder on a summer night without rain. Barclay does some quick thinking, digging deep into memories from his university days and military training, but also drawing on his experience as an outdoorsman. Spoiler Hide Barclay's internal monologue, or something like it: It's really impossible to tell precisely where the fallout will be in significant concentration - that all depends on the weather. But he figured that explosion was pretty far away - probably D.C. or Baltimore. And of course the Jetstream is variable, but with the prevailing winds and a bomb that size... ye gods. Two hundred... better make it 250 kilometers to be safe. Barclay awarded 1 Action Point for use in a Science/Engineering scenario. Barclay had been counting the seconds between flash and bang, and now had a guess at the power of the bomb, and it's distance. He couldn't help but overhear the Sherri's conversation. And he Spoke up.' Sherrif, my good fellow, I know I'm missing a bloody limb, but I'll march as quick as any bloke of yours can, I can shoot straight and move quiet. I was a Light Dragoon in Afghan, and I have 50 rounds of 45-70. You know 45-70? It'll drop a Bison at 700 yards.' Barcham worked the leaver of his rifle, the custom action opening to reveal a round as big as men pinky, the gleaming clean action set into a curly walnut stock. At the end of the Barrel, one could notice an eared foresight, in addition to protection the iron site, it became clear that the nose cap also held a bayonet lug. If one was up in British Military Equipment, you could see the sheath of a 1907 pattern sword bayonet, strapped to the side of his Bergen.' I've just crossed the mountains west of here. I reckon I know a Valley, year round flowing water, abandoned town and a good bridge still. It should be out of the danger range of any fallout. I studied nuclear weapons at the old Alma Mater. Barcham was still a powerful man, entering his early thirties, and though worn and scarred, and missing a leg, was no helpless cripple.' If you have whatever you fellows use instead of ordnance survey this side of the pond, I think it's a few hundred kicks north-west of here. Beaufort: Having taken a long moment to look at Margaret's medicine before he took it, Beaufort closed his eyes and swallowed. Whatever the images were displayed to his mind's eye, they did not appear to soften his face. In order, he answered the concerns which came more quickly than he wished. A certain ease came into his voice, "Thank you, Doctor Richardson, your presence would be appreciated." To Doctor Morgan, his tone edged, "Tell them to do what Deputy Dirk tells them to do. Commandeer every riding animal and vehicle you can for law enforcement. Then move north with the water tanker to Haverhill. There are three railroads leading out from there and almost no one will use them. If the bandits aren't dead by the time you get there, you'll have to fight anyway. "A military man from across the Atlantic Pond? My lad," Beaufort rested a hand on Barclay's shoulder, in turn, while still not properly introduced, "I can tell that you and I are going to get along famously." A lively smile spread up the sheriff's face before ending the gesture, one which lit his green eyes with the light from the sky. Trying to be polite, but efficient, Beaufort Mayville hopped up with a slow leg onto the same utilitarian platform that Doctor Morgan had used. Not to his desire, the sheriff of Grafton County raised his arms in an orderly fashion. "If I could have everyone's ears for just a moment. Do not panic. It has come to my attention that it is necessary to evacuate the city of Hanover. To do this you will need a knife, a canteen, and a means to make fire. Following that, concentrate on weapons, ammunition, non-perishable food, and cold-weather gear. If you have any questions please consult with one of our judges, Doctor Morgan, or Sheriff's Deputy Dirk. "In addition I am looking for a number of able-bodied volunteers to move north in order to secure food. Any soul courageous enough to accept this task should follow me north where we will depart shortly. Bring anything that you would need to survive in the wild. Those who participate will have my sincere appreciation." Stepping down carefully, but with outward calm, from the box, Beaufort Mayville patted John Richardson's shoulder as he passed him. "Don't worry about this," he said on his way to pick up the supplies from his table. "All we have to do is find a better place to live." Jameson Buchanan"I don't like the sound of this," said James." I'm going to head to the mountains on my own. May our paths cross again, and God bless!" And with that, the aged janitor picked up his bag, and was gone. Wayne felt mildly reassured as he saw authority taking hold once more. Seeing John's similar reaction was also reassuring-though he sincerely wished that the boy wouldn't, he knew the young man would volunteer to help scavenge. Their hard lives had given them experience with rustling up a meal, even at another's expense-finding food for more than themselves would be a bit of a task, but certainly not impossible. As John approached, toolbox in hand, he nodded to Beaufort, his rifle slung over his shoulder, "I'll help you out, sure 'enough- but if it's possible, I'd like to get my hands on some tools while we're out. Torch canisters are scarce enough to trade for, but if we run into any machine shops I'd like for us to take a peek." Wayne, as he followed in his son's trail, laid a hand on the boy's shoulder, shaking his head. "If we find any shops- I'll take a look. I want you staying with whatever supplies we pick upkeep 'em safe from anyone that might try to sneak up on 'em while we're scavenging. No ifs or butts here-you stay with the goods." He declared, fixing the young man with a withering stare. The sort of stare only a resolute father can muster. The young boy simply buckled with a nod, both of them waiting for the directions to leave. Despite the respect Sheriff Beaufort has in the community, he gets no volunteers among the market-goers except for three visitors from out of town: the doc and his son, and the Brit with the prosthetic. He supposed it made sense - the visitors had nothing binding them to Hanover. Everyone else had homes, farms, businesses, family that they had to attend to at this moment of crisis. Beaufort briefs his new posse on his plan, and they set off to the old ranch and gun shop that was last seen inhabited by a group of antisocial brigands who were known to shoot first and ask questions later. Spoiler Hide 1 action point for Beaufort to be used in a Leadership situation. Victor Victor grabs a baggy of pills as the nurse comes by with the tray and stuffs it into his pocket of knickknacks. He gives one last furtive glance around the town square and ducks down an alleyway, clambering over a pile of fallen stone and mortar. He grabs his bicycle from where he had locked it to an overturned dumpster in the shadows and rides home as quickly as possible.' Home' was the same place that he had lived since before the first bombs fell. While many others had opted to move closer to the town center, into larger, nicer places, or out into the country to farm he had elected to stay right where he was. It was where he was comfortable, and besides all his stuff was already right there. There were no moving trucks so he would have to carry everything by hand. It never occurred to him that he could simply use things people had left behind in the area he was moving to. It would be like... living in someone else's house, never knowing when they might show up at the door. This was just too much. He pulls a warm coke out of the nonfunctional refrigerator, and sits on the couch in front of the nonfunctional TV. He sits for a moment, sipping coke as the reality of what was happening comes crashing down on him. Furthermore, he has to leave. Furthermore, he had to leave 10 minutes ago, and he could only take what he could carry and wouldn't slow him down. Furthermore, he jumps to his feet, sending coke spilling across the dirty carpet. It didn't matter. He runs to the bedroom and pulls the 'spam can' of surplus USSR ammo out from under the bed and dumped out what was left. A good deal, at least something wasn't going horribly wrong today. Without pausing to count he guesses about 60 or so, wrapped with paper in packets of 10, several were broken and had split in the case. He piles it all into the bottom of his backpack, wondering briefly if water would damage the primer or if the jarring might set one off right into his backside. No time. He runs out of the little college student's style flat, not bothering to stop and lock the door for the first time. He fumbles with his keychain and drops his keys. Picking them up, he unlocks his bike.------------------------------------------------------------------------Half an hour from when the bomb fell, he rides into the town square, now deserted, and looks around. He'd missed them. But he knew where they were headed. If he hurried he might still catch them. Beaufort, Roads, And Trails: Once again Beaufort is struck by the utility of the rescue trailer behind his ATV. Keeping his belongings on the trailer had allowed him to forget the batch of homemade soap that he had made in Hanover and had brought it along all the way to North Haverhill. The trip was an unmolested one, passing through Oxford and other small communities along the turnless journey before leaving Route Ten in favor of the flat dirt trails east of Haverhill. Beaufort made every attempt to avoid the crime gang which may not have evacuated from Haverhill and remain away from whatever foot patrol they might manage on the paved roads further north. Dismounting at the very southern edge of his historic property, far and away from the domestic house further northwest, Beaufort did not expect company. Nearby should be his family's emergency root cellar, diesel cache, and spare truck and trailer both surrounded and covered by brush and trees. The gun shop and his library, he reflected briefly, would be part of his neglected house at the front of the tree-secluded property. Without fuss, the sheriff of Grafton County eyed the ranch and its surrounding tree lines while waiting for the few volunteers to arrange themselves. 'Three years,' Beaufort thought. 'The squirrels had better not have learned how to burrow through the walls of that seller.' Barchart Veteran had kept up better than the others had expected, more cheerfully too. He had quieted all his gear, and moved with barely a sound now he was dismounted.' What's the rough layout, estimated target numbers, and relevant info Sherri? He asked quietly, his words not a whisper, because a whisper is not quiet." Or are we going to cache our packs and take a little recce?" Beaufort"I was just about to say that we should stop here... we're getting close to my old property. Further to the northwest are my old house and barn. Within sight of those are a biodiesel tank and where I used to park my old truck and trailer. But our closest objective, about half a mile through the trees, is my old "root cellar." It's a hide-hole built into the side of a hill, where I stored guns and supplies. At one time it was well hidden, but there's no telling how many né'er-do-wells have taken up residence here and possibly found every last bean and bullet that I stashed away." The doctor emerged from the vehicle, fixing his son with a stern glare-leaving the boy to stay with the vehicle to stand watch. Looking towards the property, Wayne listened in on the conversation, readying his hunting rifle." If you like, I could take a peek through my scope and have a look for anyone inside." He offered, "I'm not a master sniper, but I could probably keep their heads down." Wayne finds a vantage point on an old overturned tree, covered with moss. He and the Sheriff take turns looking through the scope to see anything they can through the trees on the property. Spoiler Hide (1d8)[6] (1d12)[7] After Beaufort points it out, Wayne sees the camouflaged entrance to the sheriff's "root cellar." With some concern, Beaufort remarks that it shouldn't be so easy to spot - perhaps his camouflage netting has been disturbed. They can just see the top of something red, which Beaufort says is his biodiesel tank. The contour of the land prevents them from seeing his barn and house at this point, and they see no sign of movement other than birds and squirrels. The air here is fresh and rich with the smell of the trees at their heaviest foliage this part of the year. Barclay'So, what's our scheme of maneuver'Barclay said, just audible to his intended recipients, Movement by the numbers? He elaborated briefly,'That's 1 person moves while the other two keep watch.' Beaufort Mayville: "Exactly right," Beaufort confirmed with a serious eye on Barclay while speaking at his volume and still not properly introduced. "My rifle makes almost no noise, so I will take the rear. Cheerful lad, you're in front. It's obvious I don't have to tell you how to be quiet. Doctor Richardson, keep low and cover each of us as we move. I'm sure you can hit what you shoot at, just find cover before you aim. "...we do not have time to piddle. If it points a weapon at you, kill it. If you can knock it out, do it, but be quiet. Everyone except ourselves are trespassers." Armed with his Carmelite model Fifteen, custom-made noise suppressor, magnifying optics, and sub-sonic ammunition, Beaufort Mayville briefly enjoyed the sound of the trees as he leaned over one of his favorite reading spots and waited for the two men to set out. Just then there is a sharp whistle from John Richardson, back with the ATV and the bicycles. A young man in dirty black clothes with a Morin-Nagant slung over his shoulder comes biking along the dirt trail, and as he turns the corner, finds himself staring down the business end of John's firearm. As Wayne nodded at Beaufort's orders-full well knowing that the man had a sound tactical mind for things like this-he heard his son whistle. Having spent so long tending patients and other 'soft' duties, he was caught slightly off-guard by the armed man his son was pointing a gun at. Had these been the wilder days, where everyone was an enemy, that likely would have got the good doctor killed. Not to mention his son as well. Sluggishly, he tried to bring his rifle up, attempting to sight the man down the scope in case he tried any funny business with his boy. He wouldnotlose his son, not after coming this far." Don't move!" He screamed at the man, seeing his son's silent, steady aim. The boy hadn't stayed soft, like his old man: He had still retained a waste lander's heart. That would serve him well... Hopefully. Beaufort And Surprise: "Put your hands up," Beaufort roared from behind his rifle. It had already been seated against his shoulder as he did so and the unfamiliar face near John Richardson was not given a serving of mercy under the aim of the weapon. "Get off the bicycle! Now! "Down on your knees!" It was a strange and unconscious comfort for the County Sheriff, repeating words that he had said hundreds of times, both in and for the department's Special Emergency Response Team. But the heat and animosity in the sheriff's voice came naturally. Beaufort, like most intelligent fellows, did not like to be followed or approached from behind while engaging in clandestine law enforcement operations. It reminded his instincts too much of the Connecticut River Dispute. BarchamThings had happened very quickly, and the Brit felt left out. Everyone had a gun draw except him. Of Course, shooting off a round early would be a socially bad move. Bring down the whole passel of ruffians if anywhere about. So it was with a quiet think of draw steel, he drew his Sword Bayonet.' Gentlemen, put up your arms. One Shot and the whole state will know we're here. He nodded at the young man held up at gun point.' Besides, weren't you at the Doc's Table in town? His Boy?' Victor MathersVictor pulls up short, slamming on the rusty brakes on his bicycle. He slowly puts his hands up, leaning on his left leg." Umm... Hi there guys,"He reaches up to push some loose hairs out of his eyes, but stops half way there when he sees a threatening twitch from one of the many guns pointed at him. I am. Er, was on my way to help. He gives a small grin that looks forced and fake. I had to go home to get some things first, he continues is a small voice. Beaufort Mayville: "Off the bike," Beaufort was completely undeterred, repeating what the target at the end of his weapon should have done immediately. No law enforcement officer ever wanted to hear a suspect's story until after they were compliantly on the ground. This one, Beaufort admitted to himself, looked vaguely familiar and might have been in Hanover once. But the seasoned department head saw no reasoning to blindly trust any person who approached from behind, whatever their claims. But neither did the county sheriff possess any fear of the small amount of noise which his weapon would make, unlike the Richardson's' rifles. "Get down on your knees and put your hands behind your head. "Search him for identification." Victor Though complying, Victor looks kind of like a cornered animal. Glancing back and forth between the speaker and the person going through is pockets as he sits there on the ground, Hey guys, you know this is hardly the way you'd want to treat help... Although there was no signal from his father, John Richardson is the first to show deference to the sheriff, and starts to search Victor. Victor tells him which pocket to check for a well-worn wallet, in which John finds an expired Dartmouth student ID with Victor's face and name on it. John (flashing the ID card at the rest of the group)"He's from around here." Wayne nodded to his son, letting his rifle's aim lower as he nodded to his flesh and blood. He'd have to berate the boy later for volunteering to search the man: He had seen men rigged with hand grenades to their pockets after being dosed up with LSD by raider groups. Hell, he had evenusedthat tactic before with a bit of sodium thiopental and a few captives. Volunteering was forotherfools to accomplish." Right, well, you're more than welcome to move up with the others- I'll be working overwatch with John here." The doctor said, sitting down once more. Beaufort Mayville: Beaufort allowed his assault rifle to slide down into the high ready position as the information was revealed. With a second glance the investigator of several decades confirmed that the bicycle had once belonged to the Hanover Police Department. "Alright, Doctor, if that is the meal you want to eat. You and your son have the honor of not shooting us when we come back. If the cellar is clear, you can drive the ATV and bikes where we'll load up." At this the county sheriff's eyes passed over John also, "But if there's anything chasing us, you have my personal permission to kill it dead as a tombstone." "As for you, young man," he began to verbalize directly toward Victor in his airy and tenor voice. "I am sorry about that. I apologize. You can stand up." The lively green eyes of the county sheriff wore less scare than a few moments previous. The trim of his snowy mustache was still fairly strait as he gazed and considered the newcomer's actions in the past few moments. "These days most people change their morals more often than clothes," Beaufort explained. "I hope that you'll understand that I wanted to be certain of your intentions." The senior male took a moment to sidle up to Victor, not even bothering with introduction. The expression on his face was as sincere as he could make it while the words fell out of his lips. "But, I appreciate the help. Your hands are welcome here. If you will kindly decide whether to stay with the supplies, or to follow this fine English gentleman, we will sort out this supply situation very soon." Having gestured helpfully, and as politely as Beaufort could manage toward Wayne and Barclay, the peace officer added in a serious tone, "But if you're ever shot at...hide behind something first. Then shoot back." Beaufort, Victor, & Barclay proceed on foot, one man moving at a time with the other two in overwatch, until they end up on the doorstep of Beaufort's hide-hole without any sign of another human having been by any time recently, at least not since the last rain. But even though the door is shut, Beaufort does notice that the camouflage is not in place the way it was when he had to leave. Beaufort Mayville: Beaufort Mayville quietly informed his unlikely companions, "It's been tampered with. Let's look carefully." As per his order in the line of movement, Beaufort dutifully took a position covering the door in the hill. The fourth-five degree slope made for an interesting finagle, but the county sheriff was more interested in the fluffy and pressed grass around the edges of the door under the camouflage net. Of most interest were details about the net and the door itself... The camouflage net is intact but not arranged the same way as Beaufort left it. There is no pressed grass showing signs of a person being there recently. The door is closed, but the lock is destroyed - there are tool marks, such as might have been left by a crowbar. Barclay'Right then Sherri, what's the plan? Go in quiet, hope no one's home? Barcham checked the Stock of his rifle, for the quick reloads, and his bandolier for the rest of them.' Or, do we go in hot, kick the door down and clear this place room by room?'. The Grin on his face showed which he'd prefer, as he drew his bayonet once more, and clicked it silently home on his rifle. Beaufort Mayville: A wry twist turned up the sheriff's mouth, unwanted, but decidedly a smile. He answered in the same quiet tones that the Englishman seemed so familiar with using. "Rapid stealth movement. We're not at war yet, but we may be very soon. There is only just a tunnel and a room at the end." The question gave Beaufort more of a moment to think and with it the opportunity to make a better decision. His eyes slipped from Barclay to Victor and considered all the little information he knew about the volunteer. The non-suppressed weapon which Victor carried came into the county sheriff's vision again and flattened his smile into seriousness, "Brave soul would you kindly help remove the camo net and then stay here to watch for patrols? I'd prefer to make prisoners quietly." Barclay'Quiet work is it then?' Barcham unclipped the bayonet with the same quiet metallic noise, and slung his rifle, cinching it tight. From a beaded sling, he swung round the small forest axe he had there, and checked the leather covering the blade. He rolled up his sleeves, revealing the swirling green leaves that covered his arms.' Always wondered why they made us crawl through plastic tunnels at Sandhurst'He said, as he crouched at the entrance, and made his way in, past the camo netting. Seeing the others stand around at the door, Wayne couldn't help but curse to himself about the situation. Drifting his scope over the compound, he took a mental inventory of the situation. With them waiting around, that meant something was wrong here. Darting his scope over the windows, he tried to get a peek at anyone that could be thinking of jumping out to drop grenades or other deadly items on the ground below. He was certainly not a fan of remaining inactive for so long: Usually, he had already blasted someone's head off after holding his rifle for this damned long." Come on..." He coaxed to himself, "Just get in and out already, will you? That radiation is creeping closer and closer." Barclay and Beaufort are first to enter the hide-hole. To their relief, it is unoccupied. They pass through an antechamber and through a second door (open) into the storage area. The underground miniature log-cabin looks completely sound structurally, but Beaufort's stores have been ransacked. Victor pokes his head in curiously from outside after he hears no sounds of a scuffle, but Beaufort asks him to step back out of the way to let some sunlight into the room. Beaufort's weapons, ammunition, and MRE's are all gone, as are miscellaneous durable goods such as first aid supplies and gardening tools. Any locked cabinetry that had contained them has been destroyed, disassembled, or carried off. Almost all of his dried food, herbs, and water are missing, though the dried pine needles in vacuum-sealed bags remain, and there are some bags of pemmican on the floor in bundles of five 10-oz bags. Each bundle has at least one damaged bag, but there looks to be about 40 pounds of the calorie-dense food that is unspoiled. The compensation prize for Beaufort, however, is his wife's herbal medicine kit. It sits untouched, as if it had somehow been overlooked despite its prominent location on a shelf. Barclay'Shall we get the kid to take this back to the car?' Barcham asked, spearing a fragment of the open Pelican on the tip of his bayonet, and examining it. Not very air damaged, and obviously freshly split, Else scavengers would have had it away.' We going to check out the rest of the Property, they must have taken this stuff someplace else'He looked at the smashed gun lockers'What's the way you yank phrase it?' 'Lets pry them back from their cold dead hands' Beaufort's Dreams: It was not for the psychological impact that Beaufort Mayville was shocked into silence. It was the unbidden images, the memories, which entered his mind. The few places on the inside of the cellar, the round log walls particularly, that remained unbroken brought sensations and emotions to the sheriff that he had not felt so intensely for two years. The laughter of his grandson. The smile of his daughter. The quirky way his son-in-law would eye him when discussing survival or firearms. A large lump formed in Beaufort's throat, and he struggled to put it down while thinking of the dreams and wishes that he had made with his family with the food in the cellar. Enough food to feed a single person for decades. "No," Beaufort whispered thickly to Barclay's lively suggestions. Taking careful hold of Clara's herbal kit, a collection of pine needles and one bag of pemmican, the county sheriff ground his teeth together in order to keep his composure. A wave of physical numbness struck him as he tried to lift so much at once, including his rifle which he had slung to his shoulder. "Let's get this loaded up. We'll meet at the ATV. ... I want the camo net to come with us too." Following those words, Beaufort wasted no more time. He exited the cabin storage room decidedly more emotional than any man with a military mind should. His lean frame passed through the full-size tunnel which he had dug out and lined himself. Briefly, his eyes glanced and lingered on one of the logs in the wall. Fourth-four years ago, Beaufort had carved a set of notches into a tree that had become part of that wall. Underneath those knife notches were a separate set of names which had been carved sixteen years later. Beaufort + Clara Spencer + Brenda Victor sees Beaufort coming out of the hide-hole, his face white as a sheet, with Barclay behind him. Barclay does not look similarly shocked, but has a strange facial expression nonetheless. Bahamas Barclay Walked, his arms full of Pemmican, and over his shoulder the Camo cloth slung, he actually put more weight on his prosthetic, almost a reverse limp, making full use of his artificial sinews. His face was clouded with though, plotting the lie of the land, and the best way for four bolt action rifle men to pick off an unknown number of bandits. Riflemen Barclay was sure could not manage the mad minute he could with an old SALE, or his smoke pole lever action. Beaufort Mayville: Arriving from between the trees, Beaufort did not have an assuring expression on his face for Wayne or John Richardson. Almost hollow, but thoughtful, Sheriff Mayville hoisted what he had carried away from the cellar onto the trailer of his ATV. Knowing it was nowhere near the size that he had hoped for, or enough to sate the volunteers that had joined him, Beaufort quietly moved out of the way for the men behind him. Framing his shoulders to include the small posse, the widower uttered, "I am going to go kill trespassers. If any of you want a legal experience ending human life, you're welcome to move with me in formation. For those that don't, you're welcome to take my share, but you'll probably have to fight in Haverhill anyway. "...there's a big red barn down that way," Beaufort pointed with the finger of his left hand, certain of the direction down the hill. "There were over one hundred guns in all kinds of calibers and no one would want to haul them all away. I plan to look at the diesel stock, if any, then make way to the barn. Hopefully, some of the dozen dirt bikes will still be there." Barclay'Won't be the first time'Barclay muttered about the Invite.' These Bandits, they are unconvincing our way, might they be known to hit travelers? And we've got a whole town headed this way?' He shrugged, and began checking over his gear, and camping up. Odds and sods of vegetation went over his clothing, and dirt did duty as camouflage cream.Let's clear them out' Hearing Beaufort speak of bandits, Wayne nodded to his son before rising. The young man, keeping his rifle in hand, dismounted from the trailer as the two of them turned to Beaufort." Well, I take it we've got a lot to accomplish here." Wayne said eventually, "But if you don't mind my asking, justwheredid you get all of this stuff?" He inquired, to which John could only nod." Sounds like you've got enough stuff to supply a small army, to be honest. Why didn't you nab this stuff for the town earlier?" The younger man inquired a bit pointedly. Victor Standing alone out in the sun was not his idea of helping, but when the Sheriff came out looking like he did, he was glad he hadn't seen what was inside. While killing people for trespassing seemed not only hypocritical, but an effort in futility, Victor thought about the rules that had kept him alive this long;Rule 6: Travel in a Group. So, he would wait and see where the largest group went, and he'd go with them. He's pretty sure it is going to be those going after whoever had done... whatever they had done inside though. He slings his backpack around, into the crook formed by his elbow and pulls out a handful of bullets quickly stuffing them into the pocket of his jeans in case he needs to get at them quickly. His motions are jerky, and it is obvious he is scared. He'd used the gun before of course, but mostly on targets, the occasional wild animal and to scare away potential bandits. He wasn't the best shot, but the Morin had plenty of bark, and that was usually enough. Furthermore, he once shot at a rabbit a couple of times, and missed, but the poor thing died anyway. It had been so scared it had a heart attack. It was probably a good thing he had missed too. He later hit one square on and there wasn't enough meat left to eat. Beaufort Mayville: Reaching around to procure his keys, Beaufort is taken aback by the Richardson's' questions. A pursed and uncomfortable looking formation settled across his cheeks and mouth before he answered. "The gang that's in Haverhill raided in right before the End," the sheriff explained heavily. The lightness of his tenor voice was breached by emotion along with his veneer of authority. "They wear red headbands and my family and I were there at the time. We were forced to leave south to escape. ...and if my family had survived I'd have come back much sooner." Swallowing another large lump from his throat, Beaufort Mayville added, "I was a gunsmith even before I was made County Sheriff. Never could let it go. Some of the best rifles in all of New England were in that shop...and who knows where they are now. But I promised you boys supplies. And that is exactly what I aim to deliver." Toting himself to the ATV, the widower straddled the seat and sat. Resting his assault rifle under the handlebars in a makeshift holster, Beaufort goaded the engine to start. His eyes fell on Barclay and the obvious preparations. "My lad, feel free to make as much noise as you want," he said with a tone voice that was not used for the other males. It carried a simple sense of acknowledgement. Beaufort pointed in the direction of the red metal container, and not the barn, that he had pointed out earlier. "The diesel is that way." Spoiler Hide Hope you don't mind that I railroad your characters a little bit to keep things flowing. The noise of the ATV starting up in the wilderness is shocking to some of those present, especially in contrast to Barclay camping up for stealth. In an earlier era, the distant drone of an engine would not have drawn any notice, but that would be a different matter now. Still, it wasn't as loud as a gunshot, and Beaufort assured them that the noise wouldn't carry to his old house, almost a mile distant. Beaufort explains that he wants to get the ATV further off the road, and drives it as far as the hide hole, where he kills the engine and dismounts. Barcham suggests to the others that they hide their bicycles and other burdensome gear, which they do, laying them in a ditch and covering them with foliage. They then catch up with Beaufort." Cover me - I'll check the diesel tank before we head for the barn." Beaufort leads the way on foot to his old biodiesel tank, weapon at the ready. He keeps his head down as he crests a small rise, but is briefly able to see his house and barn. There is smoke coming from the chimney of the house. He gets down behind a big downed tree until the main party takes up their positions behind him on the crest of the hill. They also notice the light smoke, but otherwise the coast is clear. Beaufort proceeds to the diesel tank without incident. His old truck and trailer are nowhere to be seen. He reaches down, grabs a small rock, and taps the tank with it. Still full. The fuel probably has some impurities in it by now if it hasn't been maintained, he thinks, but it may still work. Spoiler Hide A little more info since not everybody knows the backstory. Beaufort's emotional behavior only makes it easier for doubt and suspicion to grow in the minds of those who have only just recently chosen to cast their lots with him. His stockpiles seem almost the stuff of fantasy in this time of scarcity. A dozen dirt bikes? A hundred firearms? Pallets of food and huge tank of fuel? The only times you ever heard of someone so well-prepared was when they were able to somehow pounce upon the resources of the failing government, or when they had been both exceptionally wealthy (before the crash of currency) and remarkably foresighted. Usually organized crime was involved - the mob had been one of the few entities to flourish with the fall of modern civilization. Wayne and John, considering their past lifetimes, simply kept smiles as they went alongside Beaufort. Talking among themselves on the side, they kept their voices low as they conversed." You know, if Naismith the Mafia..." John began, looking back to Beaufort." Then we're probably in for one of two things: Either he shoots us all in the back with some buddies, like you and I used to, or we can end up getting in with it deep." Wayne said, "They always do need doctors to patch up their thugs."" And electricians to make sure those electric fences keep running." John replied, his face splitting more fully into a smile. He held up his fist to his father, smiling as he did so, "Play it cool?"" Play it cool." Wayne agreed, bumping knuckles with his son before returning to the group, relaxed in posture. Keeping his rifle in hand, he nodded to John, who kept a scope peeled at the house distant. Approaching Beaufort at a steady trot, he kept his hand on his sidearm, looking out for any ambushing thugs. If Tswana Mafia hideout, it could stand to reason that they probably would need men like himself and his son. If worst came to worst, they could always offer up their services in exchange for their lives. That was what they had done before, and Wayne would be damned if he wasn't up for doing that again. Barchart old skills were not dulled by time, or loss of a limb. Barclay moved from cover to cover, along ditches and behind banks as fast as a quick trot, but keeping his eyes open for a target, and any more visible signs or tracks. He bellies flopped into the cover overlooking the ARN, round in the chamber, finger on the trigger guard, waiting for a target of opportunity. Victor Completely out of his element, he shuffles along behind the group his rifle across his chest pointing up just like they taught him at the safety classes. Crawling up to the log, he doesn't even bother lining up the gun. He's not the best shot, and a barrel sticking over the lip would more likely give away their position. Quietly, So, if we're after a cache of guns... That means whoever we're after has all those guns? Doesn't this seem like a bad plan to anyone else? Barclay'Boy'Barclay spoke,'If they've got the guns, they'll hit the locals, so we hit them first.' Stay Low, Shoot when I shoot, Run when I run, Try and Keep up with a cripple, and you'll probably be fine'He crept out of sight and close to the Sherri'This what you were expecting Lawman? How'd you want us to take it'Barclay eyed the ground looking for the best ground way. With eye to Two fixing and two Flanking to catch any opponents drawn out in a deadly crossfire. Beaufort Mayville: Having liberated a rather wickedly sharp looking knife from among his kit bags, Beaufort looked across the long rectangular grounds of his lands which were still surrounded by a thick swath of trees. Large and empty squares of fields shared the middle of the land, side-by-side, until giving way to the barn and finally the brick house painted with white trim. It was pleasant to see that the green arbors of grapes and other vines still decorated the field fencing, along with now grown wild flowers. Pretty as they were, they would provide cover as well as the natural landscape and the long grass which appeared uncut from over several months. Even more pleasant and reassuring were Barclay's instructions to Victor and a detached kind of smile slipped up onto his face. "Looks just like I remember it," Beaufort answered the second question. "The house has a back, side, and front entrance. The front side of the house is a wall of windows so don't go up there. All we're after is the barn and a distraction to draw them out of the house." To the first question, he posed, "And I'll have you know that a gun doesn't make a man. We're going to catch them by surprise, by speed, and sheer force of personal morality. If we don't do this, a lot of innocent people are going to suffer for it. And that does not sit with me." Investigating the remains of his personal property, Beaufort resigned himself to be thankful for the measure of bravery that the volunteers had displayed thus far. "My suggestion is that the English lad and I are in front, you brave soul, will be right behind him giving cover, and Doctor Richardson and his son will cover us all from the rear." The bright green eyes of the County Sheriff passed over to Barclay and slit there, both studious and careful of the other male's obvious experience. "Does that suit you?" Barclay'Suits me to a T sheriff'Barclay replied.' Just Doc,'he shifted his gaze and point of conversation.' If we come in, Hell for leather. You and your boy ain't going to run until we reach you, and even then, only if we're still going. We might play a long game of a fighting retreat'He considered for a momentary while.' And we need somewhere to RV, in case we split up or get separated.' 'Back at the truck should do.' Just then the house door opens - the one directly opposite the barn - and a woman about 5 feet tall with dark hair exits and starts walking casually towards the barn. She is not holding anything in her hands or wearing any equipment, but it is impossible to tell if she is armed under the baggy flannel shirt she is wearing, which has the sleeves rolled and the hem untucked, reaching to her knees. Spoiler Hide I need to know how far away you are. The perimeter of the trees is 100 meters from the barn and house, but there are some concealing locations (not cover) if you want to try to sneak up pretty much as close as you want - overgrown bushes and weeds, with bare ground in-between that would take you 3–5 seconds to run across. And is anyone using a scope or binoculars? Wayne, seeing the woman emerge, almost instantly leveled his rifle at her, jamming the scope up to his eye. He hadn't lived this far into hell by being a proper gentleman, and as such he quickly took aim at the center of her bosom, looking over for any bulge of possible weapons. "Heads up, everyone, we've got company!" Beaufort Mayville: Roughly three hundred meters from the cover of the barn, Beaufort did not even bother to speak following Wayne's quiet exclamation. The sheriff's fingers remind him that the safety feature of his rifle is disabled while his eyes and torso movement adjust to examine the woman. Unlike the other rifles, Beaufort's firing would not attract attention from any of the other trespassers on the property. "She's too young to be local," Beaufort informed under the ambient sound of the ranch. "Young lad, sprint when she can't see the house!" And the elder male, behind his rifle, prepared to do exactly that as he tried to discern the temperament and disposition of the woman. A moment later, his real eyes, then telescopically magnified, swept over the four visible windows of the brick house, searching for occupants. The woman turns a little as she goes into the barn, and the Dartmouth party gets a better look at her face. Despite her short stature, she appears to be in her mid 30s. Which means, having been through these hard times, that she's probably actually in her late 20s. By her features she appears to be Latina. The clucking of a hen emanates from the barn. "You know her?" Wayne asked, his finger curling around the trigger of his rifle, ready to add a nice layer of paint to the barn she walked out of. At this range? A shot to the head would cast so many little brain and skull fragments out, her body would spasm a bit before dropping forward. She might even do a little jerky dance if she saw them at the last moment, her muscles tensing to try and avoid an inescapable bullet-only to release their premature motion with the sudden death of the brain. If she was leaving to go to the bathroom, he knew-from a medical standpoint-her bowels would probably unclench at the moment of death. She would soil herself posthumously, but her organs would stay preserved for a bit longer. If they could find some ice, and he could discern the woman's blood type, they might actually be able to get some spare organs out of this whole affair." You know what? I think I'll save you the problem." He said, the last thought striking him as tempting. Unless told otherwise, he pulled the trigger on the rifle, ready to give her brain a new breathing hole and a quiet, unseen death. Beaufort Mayville: Beaufort was so taken in with examining the ranch, the red brick house, and the smaller red brick pump house nearby it, that he completely missed the implications of Wayne's question. A very rich and antiquated kind of verbal gnash came out of his mouth at seeing Wayne's preparation. Rushed, Beaufort turned the aim of his rifle in the direction of the female and used the mounted optics to make certain that she was put down if she was shot at. "Hold your fire, Doctor," the sheriff half hissed and half growled. "We don't want them to know we're here yet! It'd be nice if they came out of the barricaded brick house first!" BarchamKeeping low to the ground and as out of sight as possible, Barclay leaned over, resting his hand on the barrel of the rifle in the doctors hands.' What say I and the Boy go cause a little Rufus? If me and he take the left flank while you and the doc wait here, if there's an outbuilding or summit, we'll start that burning. Or just suppose we take any shots of opportunity.' With his free hand in diagrammed in the air.' That way we avoid getting them pinned on our initial location, and you can take them with enfiendalading fire.' Wayne lowered his rifle as asked, but kept his finger hovering over the trigger guard. "Right." He agreed, before looking to his son with a nod, "You two are more than welcome to flank them if you like. My son and I will cover the entrance- if they come out hollerin', you're more than welcome to hit the deck when me and him make it a crap shoot." That said, he gestured ahead, as if waiting for the two men to take up whatever positions they wanted. "Of course, if you both liked, we could probably see about smoking them out of cover with the ATV. If there's as many vehicles as you say there are in here, we could probably draw them out just by crashing it into one of the buildings, and pick 'em off during the ruckus." "No," Beaufort said firmly, rising into a low crouch. "You're the rear. Sit and shoot after we shoot. The ATV is our gather point. I'll get them out of the house." Not content to rest while being unobserved, the Grafton County Sheriff gave a glance to Barclay and Victor. "Come if you want, lads. Now is the time." With no more words, Beaufort rushed carefully and speedily between covers, sometimes near the fence greenery, and made his way toward the barn. It was an exciting kind of business that Beaufort had not felt since Orange County, in Vermont, had tried to attack Hanover in numbers. The scuffle had not been large enough to merit the term war, but the conflict had ignited Mister Mayville out of his personal sorrows. Trying to make as little noise and target as possible, Beaufort had made it as far as one of the large wooden barrels used to hold grapes during harvest season in the past. [HR] Spoiler Hide Evident or not, this is roughly Barclay's diagrammed plan, I think. I hope I did not misinterpret. Where the barrel is located is up to Bone crusher Doc, probably somewhere between zero and one hundred meters (tree line) from the barn. In addition, the quad-bike ATV and bicycles would have already been used as an approach / attack method if not for previous Game Master ruling. Playing hopscotch on the battlefield is a quick way to get noticed and shot. Barchart Veteran kept up, a bound behind the Sherri, doing his instinctive best to cover him while he dashed, and wishing he had a couple of squad dies with him. The Latina comes back out of the barn, holding a few eggs in her hanandinds. She returns to the door she exited, and bangs on it with her elbow, being unable to use her hands to open the door. Another woman of about the same age in appearance opens the door and reaches out to take some of the eggs. It is difficult to see her as she is not completely standing out of the house, but she is about 5 foot 4, with hair that could be described as "half-blonde"... hair down to her shoulder blades which was once bleached very blonde, but half of it is unbleached new growth and brunette. Backache hit the dirt with hardly a sound for such an impact, getting into cover with Beaufort.' I have yet to see raiders with women folk along willingly, who'll go unarmed. Are you sure they've not moved on, and some other folk come into your old place?' Barcham recalled what happened to one party of bandit's he'd encountered. The woman's protector, husband, or partner had been killed in the fight. A few days down the road he'd encountered her beaten, raped and dying of internal injuries. Keeping his finger hovering over the trigger of his rifle, Wayne heard his son approach behind him, the young man crawling on his belly up to the father before taking aim as well." So, whyhaven't we drilled holes through their foreheads yet, big guy?" John asked, his rifle aimed solidly at the Latino woman." Because we've beenaskednot to." Wayne replied, using his left hand to put finger quotes in the air on the word 'asked'. "Plus, there might be more of them."" Well, if there's more of them, why don't we just lure them out?" John asked, his rifle scope drifting slightly towards the crack of the woman's ass. "I'm sure she'd squeal like a little pig with-""That's enough, son." Wayne replied, keeping his rifle butt stuffed against the crook of his arm, "We agreed to play by their rules for now- and so long as those two are in the field, closer to the barn thanks? I'd rather not risk them getting all Missy and running into an armory to tear us to tatters with."" And you really think that barn has all the guns this guy says it does?" John inquired with a cocked eyebrow, turning away from the scope." I don't really think it does- but if it does? I'm not going to risk it after getting this far." Beaufort Mayville: "The information is only two weeks dry," came the sheriff's mutter as he huddled behind the barrel next to the green fence to his right. The leaves brushed against his arm and back as he answered Barclay, "My neighbor, Emmett, was shot and killed across the road and there's never been a kinder man. The information came through the sheriff's department. It has to be accurate. "Their skin's too dark and I don't like the hair. No one knew about my stocks here outside my family so they have to be organized crime," Beaufort said. In the intensity of his eyes the elder male's mind turned with the possibilities. He corrected himself a moment later, "But maybe the girls are prisoners or... But why haven't they evacuated?" Fighting against the sour scowl building on his face, Beaufort held a brief and serious gaze to Barclay, "There's a loft in the barn that will let you shoot out all four directions. We get in there, clear it, and set up our distraction. Maybe I'll just lose my mind in a few minutes and announce that we're law enforcement." [HR] Spoiler Hide The following post is made assuming that previous private messages from the Game Master are the current law of the game. Barclay'You're thinking like a Copper there,'Barclay tried to spot anyone with a weapon, anyone he considered a valid target. He wasn't big game hunting anymore, though the human creature was the finest sport he'd ever found, in a macabre fashion, he was thinking like he was back in the Stan, under the old Rules of Engagement.' We don't want to fix ourselves in position. Victor Gestures to the others to hold their positions. Standing up, and waving:Excuse me! Ma'am? With a big goofy smile, leaving his gun behind the wheelbarrow he jogs forward, his hands out. Clearly unnamed. Both women are obviously startled and scream as they duck inside the house, slamming the door. In their haste they drop and break all the precious half dozen raw eggs on the threshold, worth a day's labor in some places. Barclay'Oh well, that makes it simpler'Rules of Engagement. Any Target that has fired upon you, or is about to fire upon you, or on innocent civilians. Couldn't get more innocent than one so clearly unsound in the brain pan as the dam fool running forwards. Barcham dug down into the undergrowth, and sighted down his rifle, keeping both eyes open and waiting for a valid target to enter his view. Beaufort's Worries: "Oh no," the County Sheriff groaned quietly. In a rising sense of dread, Beaufort watched as Victor Mather's rose from his position. Before he could speak, however, the youthful soul was already announcing his presence. Biting against the urge to swear, Beaufort threw the butt of his rifle against his shoulder and watched the painted white door of the house and the curtained glass pane that had shuddered with the slam. "I hope you live to see tomorrow," he muttered sincerely. Victor Standing bemused in the clear space between the barn and the house, he is careful not to put his hands in his pocket or move too quickly. Getting his back up against the barn is the first matter of business. After that, he produces a mostly full, though battered pack of cigarettes from his pack along with a Zippo. A treasure, to be sure. He holds the unlit CIG in his mouth without lighting it for a while, gazing at the house. Laddies? I'm unarmed, I'm just looking to trade for some foodstuffs. In a voice he hoped would carry. After a long hushed moment, a female voice replies to Victor." Go around to the front door. We can trade through the mail slot." "Well spank me Rosa," Beaufort muttered in surprise. The impressive weight of his awe shone clearly on his face while crouching in the tall grass. To himself, and for the English veteran beside him, Beaufort surmised, "Brave soul, I think you just became our distraction." Clenching his teeth briefly, the county sheriff rose enough to dash while crouched, and stepped over Barclay's prone form. He reached down to pat the able man's shoulder before moving quickly and lowly to the rear side of the tall red barn while keeping some of his attention peeled on the rear side of the house. Far from the red brick walks and the over-run flower gardens behind the homestead, Beaufort reached the unlatched set of double doors and prepared to enter himself inside. Wayne, seeing Beaufort dash around, rose as well. He was tempted to shoot the young man when he went up shouting like that, but he'd hold off for now. The sheriff seemed to have a solid head on his shoulders, and he could understand why the man was sprinting around like he did now. Those women were more mouths to feed and bother with-in the doctor's eyes, they had enjoyed their last meal from the plate of another. It was nice that they kept things running for them, though. Keeping his rifle in hand, he tapped his son on the shoulder, pointing to the door to keep it covered. John simply nodded as his father went running, crouched low to present as little a target as possible as he attempted to cover the Sheriff's entry with a solid scope on his back. Victor Slowly lighting the cigarette, he walks to the front of the house, sparing only the briefest of glances back, showing naked terror like a horse about to bolt for a brief second. He puffs softly, letting the aroma of the Marlboro tobacco waft about. He is careful not to inhale the smoke, but rather holds it in his mouth as with a cigar, making pleased noises. When he reaches the front of the house, he stands perpendicular to the door, "Hello? Laddies? I didn't mean to frighten you, you must get very few visitors up here. My supplies are running low, and I could use foodstuffs, both fresh and preserved if you have it. I've got a couple of things worth having I could part with. A token of good faith, for the eggs wasted," he drops a single cigarette through the slot. BarchamThat tap, on the shoulder, would mean many things to an infantryman in the right context, which Beaufort didn't know, and if Barclay had been an infantryman, and not an officer, then he would have the drills programmed into his very nerves. As it was, he began to start forwards, then stopped, and gave the Sherri overwatch. Then he ran forwards, big aging to catch up with the lawman. The half-blonde woman answers Victor with a Brooklyn accent." Wait a minute, I'll get you some MRE's." Beaufort peers into the barn. Nobody in there but some chickens that he can see. And guns! Everything seems to be the way he left it, with only a few items moved or missing. Beaufort's Arsenal! Already racing, Beaufort Mayville's heart leaped at the signs of the dozen green and brown dirt bikes which scattered around the barn floor in between the standing ranks of wire chicken cages. Straw and other filth littered the floor in places, but the light BMW motorcycles appeared as up on their kick-stands and ready to ride. Two of them still held their emergency rescue trailers attached just like the one following Beaufort's all-terrain-vehicle. Carefully, and sharply, Grafton County's sheriff sidled himself inside with a growing scowl on his face. Inwardly he knew that such a trove would already have been used, or at least soiled, by road-wise bandits. The barn door ceased to squeak in protest as the elder male stepped into the wood building. Directly, the law enforcement officer of four decades noted that the double doors opposite the near entrance were closed and that the angled stairway to his right appeared vacant. The trap door at the top of said stairs was closed, much to his surprise. Just behind those stairs and to the right of the far double-doors lay a red wooden wall that bit inward into the barn. At the corner of that wall an open doorway stood and clearly displayed the inside of a gunsmith shop. The door of the entrance hung on its hinges against the wall and had been chewed through the middle with what looked like a chainsaw. Behind the hulled entrance rifles and other firearms laid about from being left in the shop three years prior. Briefly, Beaufort wondered how many of them had been handled since his unwilling vacation out of Haverhill. Step by step Beaufort entered the gunshot unopposed and found his library collection missing a few books. Most of what hung off of improvised shelves on the walls were paperback novels of many genres or ringed binders filled with comic books. The larger stacks of weapons manuals and related material also seemed ordinary as they laid or leaned about in their corners and shelves. A little surprisingly, Beaufort discovered that his polished wood trophy case appeared unmolested as it contained awards from gunsmith to marksmanship. Among them were all of his President's Hundred tabs. With a deep and burning scowl on his white covered lips, Beaufort Mayville ignored the large mounted deer head which hung from one wall of the light stained wood interior. 'It's wrong,' his mind screamed in the room in general as he found none of the obvious and working weapons stolen or missing. The investigator inside Beaufort swallowed corrosively at the non-incriminating evidence. Among the weapons was an impressive list of history. Some oddments were still in disrepair, lying or standing open on the workbenches adjacent to a large metal lathe. But those in good order were prominently displayed in racks of hunting rifles and shotguns. Some carried optics or chokes, but those were common firearms. The real treasures remained hidden away in five-inch-steel safes which contained rifles and shotguns including Fabrice National, Heckler camp; Koch, Steyr, Remington, Mauser, Morin, and Winchester. The types varied from black powder, to bolt action, to lever, to rolling-block, to semi-automatic, and to full automatic. All had been left empty without ammunition. The other safe contained pistols: Walther, Luger, Beretta, Browning, Colt, Glock, Kon Ichikawa, Steyr, Smith camp; Wesson, and Wembley. On the opposite side of the room were stacked the notorious Lewis Mark V .30-06, Maschinengewehr 42 7.92mm, Been L4 7.62mm, and Nam bu 96 6.7mm machine rifles. Under those on another shelf laid a General Motors M-3 "Grease Gun", Heckler camp; Koch MP5, Kalashnikov 47, Colt M-16, and a "Thompson" submachine gun. All of these weapons were heirlooms once owned by Clive Salter the man who had taught Beaufort how to smith. Passing absolutely everything that remained in easy reach Beaufort trotted to the middle of the far wall. Under the racks laid a large, square, wooden, and heavy-looking sitting bench that the sheriff immediately inspected and found to be without flaw. Straightening himself, the county sheriff cast his eyes back to Barclay and grimaced the most surly that the retired captain might have ever seen him. "My fine English lad, the fourth-five seventy is in the cabinet and clearly marked. Choose your poison if you want, but I need to sort out this mystery with the girls." Marchman officer is never the one first through the door. Too risky, or, as some would have it, too much fun. This was why Barclay's was rusty on his door entry work, not that single man entry work was really drilled for anyway. What kind of soldier wouldn't bring his mates with him when the FISH and CHIPS are served up. But, while Beaufort checked his property, Barclay swept the room, Rifle Shouldered, making sure that they weren't being observed from some hidden corner.' No, we stick together, You forget we're not bandit's either. No looting till the fighting done. He said in response to the sheriff.' What's up this staircase?' He asked, completing his circuit of the buildings' interior. Spoiler Hide Fighting in Someone's Home, Causing Havoc In Peoples Street Victor Outside, Victor grinds the cigarette out on the heel of his boot, gently tapping it back into place in the pack, careful not to spill any. There is at least half left, if nothing else it would add a minute to a fuse, but he had a suspicion he would be able to trade it away. Those poor souls hooked on nicotine from when it was readily available were hard-pressed to find their fix, especially in the colder climates. He leaned against the door frame, hoping it would steady him some. He was shaking like a leaf. Beaufort Mayville: "Alright," Beaufort answered crisply. "Empty loft, hay, heirlooms, spare parts, and my grandson's fireworks." Shouldering his rifle as he spoke, the county sheriff retrieved a red colored chainsaw with a long snout right from where it lay next to the door outside the gun shop. Hefting the mechanism, Beaufort gave it a look-over and determined that it retained fuel. Leaving the barn by the former entrance, the front-man peaked around several times, including around the out-sides of the barn, before bolting. At a flat run the enforcement officer neared, but did not explicitly use, any cover-providing paraphernalia as he approached, trod, and passed the large beds of flower and vegetable gardens that were now over-grown with weeds. Carefully slapping the chainsaw down on the red brick path nearest the house, Beaufort yanked on the starting rope. To his complete and utter astonishment it worked at first pull! Hefting the tool again, Beaufort stepped to the left side of the house's back door, revved the motor, and plowed the snout of the saw to the left side of the glass pane in the door. Top to bottom, the machine roared and spit saw dust across the brick and Beaufort's boots until the tool was pried free, turned off, and gently tossed aside onto weed-filled soil. Unslinging his rifle with two kinds of cover at his back, Beaufort crashed the door in with one kick and pronounced in his loudest shout, "This is the Sheriff's Department! Throw down your weapons and surrender!" Beaufort's demands are apparently unnecessary as he discovers both the Latina woman and the Caucasian "half-blonde" woman are 1) unarmed and 2) weeping with fear under the dining room table. Not exactly the behavior expected of anyone (man, woman, or child) who has learned to survive these days. A .22 rifle leans in the corner near the door, but it is well out of reach of the women. The sheriff and Barclay scan the room, and, still covering the women with his weapon, the Sheriff unlocks the front door, more to allow himself an escape route if necessary than to let Victor in. Backache Kept up with the Sherri at a jog, though he didn't know what the Sherri was up to taking off with a chainsaw, he had a fair idea.' Well, Normally I used a Flash bang Old Chap'He said, following Beaufort into the room, rifle cradled in his arms.' But the chainsaw seems to have been just the ticket'Barclay advances into the room, carefully avoiding the women, and the doorway, till he springs to it. Single man room clearing is risky, but pity the soul who leaps on Barclay. The Bayonet is slung at his side, but the eared front sight of a 45-70 is an effective weapon, and the round that would follow is even better. Beaufort's Reasoning: A quiet kind of snort came from the sheriff at Barclay's witty rapport. If the Englishman could shoot a weapon as well as his mouth, then Beaufort felt no reason to be afraid. However, he gave a long and measured look to the former military officer before calling out, "Brave soul! This is Sheriff Mayville! I'm opening the door," and doing exactly as he said. Immediately afterward his steps carried him to the beloved dining room set of Clara Mayville. The collection had been a wedding anniversary gift from him to her, and he crouched down near a strewn chair where the two heads of the tearful women laid. Cautious, he tried to speak as clearly and non-violently as possible. "We don't have time to piddle with you," Beaufort scowled a little in thought as he garnered their attention. He drew forward his extremely sharp and long cadaver knife and set it on the hardwood floor between their gazes. His airy tenor voice stated, "There is a huge cloud of nuclear death right on our heels, and we need to evacuate. We need food and someone to carry it. So which-ever of you kills the other first...wins." Standing up the sheriff backed away three steps as he observed the women and calculated behind the unreadable green in his eyes. The aim of his rifle lowered, intentionally, as he waited, keeping a fixed hesitance in order to bring it up if necessary. The women stare blankly at Beaufort as though he were speaking a language from another planet. There is as yet no sight nor sound of another person in the house. Beaufort Mayville: "Well I'll be pink and snookered," the law enforcer waited just long enough to gauge the women's reaction. "Boys, we have ourselves a pair of civilians," he glanced up at Barclay with a quick and tense smile, then back. His face turned hard while watching the females' collective reactions as he retrieved his post-mortem tool. "They don't like killing people. Do they." With the Stern Father Face that Brenda Mayville had seen so many times, Beaufort pulled the weight of his authoritative experience, "Your hesitance to end human life earns you the honor of keeping it yourselves. You have two choices: Stay here and be poisoned by radio-active dust, or help us evacuate and we will protect you. No, I don't expect you to trust me after that little puzzle I just put you through, but I've been Sheriff of this county for fourth years. And if you respect human life, I'll try to respect yours." Completely turning his attention away from the cowering women, Beaufort addressed his comrade(s), "Let's take everything we can find. Try to focus on water, food, tools, and the means to make fire. We can load it on a trailer in the barn. If these ladies want to join us, it's their choice. They can carry food also." With a meaningful glance to Victor, Beaufort Mayville began to search the cute and astonishingly clean interior of his home, starting with the rifle and the library. [HR] Spoiler Hide Not exactly sure how Bone crusher Doc wants to handle this. I am assuming Game Master rolls for how many MRE's and pounds of food that the characters find. In terms of books and things Beaufort knows exactly what he's after. Also, there is a liquor cabinet, if the other players are interested. The property has a water well in the form of a brick pump house which is visible through the wall of windows in the front of the house. So any amount of water which can be carried should be freely available. It can be assumed that Beaufort already told all the characters about it while traveling to the destination of his ranch. Barclay'What a strange fellow'Barclay muttered too himself, as the Sherri strode off to assess what he could salvage from his house. He slung his rifle over his shoulder, and walked over to the shocked women.' Look, I'm sorry about that, this is his old house.' He slipped into recon mode, one of the key skills in the Stan is asking questions and getting answers. It's a pretty good skill in the PAW too.' How long have you been here? Any sign of Bandit's or Such like? If you've got boyfriends or companions hidden about somewhere, best Tell us, don't want there to be a misunderstanding when we find them'There was no need for a significant glance at a weapon, the meaning was clear.' There's a Nuclear cloud on its way, I would say, trust me I'm a Doctor, but I never did my Chemistry PhD. But it's coming, and we have to get out from under the dust cloud. Stay here, and the Rads will kill you. Survive the Rads, the damage to crops will kill you.' He stood up, leaning on his good leg for one of the few maneuvers his prosthetic couldn't cope so easily with. Victor Shocked silent by the Sheriff's callous threat, he revives himself with a sharp shake of his head."Oh, thank god, I thought you were really going to make them kill each other..." Kneeling down to where the girls are, he produces the pack of cigarettes again. I'm a man of my word, I'm willing to pay for what we're taking, and it sounds like you can come with us. He pops out the half smoked CIG, and offers it to them filter side first, his eyes wide and compassionate. Where are the MRE's?

Dartmouth Dust IC|rating:4.0

Protector of the Last Flower_ Rose (Loonyhog x Chasseybaby)

The dungeons of Still well stirred with men as troops patrolled the halls. Several hundred years had passed since this cell was last empty, and it had only one occupant, Aral, the humans called him. A true threat to humanity. A long time ago he had been captured by a spell locking him into his most despised form, human. His current captor Lord Dad Rose had fortified the castle that once stood here into a towering skyscraper which now loomed over the city that used to house a small village. His daughter had come for an impromptu visit from her otherwise boring life, unaware of what has been sealed below. Many creatures had Still well Tower as a target for years. However, they knew what it housed and agreed with the humans Aral should remain sealed away. If at any moment Aral wouldn't be there they would storm the building. The thick night air outside seemed to be ripe with onlookers. As the Lords Daughter pulled into the parking compound. (Rose huffed as she climbed out of her families limo in to the parking log of her fathers business building. She was sick him sticking his fingers in her life and setting her up with his pick of suitors for her to marry. They all seemed to only look down at her as a trophy wife to raise their babies and keep house. Her life was full of people telling her what to do, or wear or how to act. Her father the most of all, treating her like nothing but a doll to be placed on a shelf. She smiled at the receptionist and pushed open the gilded doors. The space was huge for a men office. She made herself comfortable on one of her fathers side sofas, unaware of cells, and it's a dangerous occupant that laid beneath her feet. Her father soon entered the room through a secret door surprised to see his only daughter waiting for him, "Lydia, now isn't the time sweetie." he said darkly. "I thought you were on that date I set you up with." He pressed the button to close the entryway, Lydia could see the faint sight of cobblestone behind it as it closed. Lydia's eyebrows creased together as her father passed through another door besides the ones at the front of the office. She played off her curious stare of the old interior of the hallway with a scowl as she rose from the sofa slowly. "It's never the time for you 'Father'," she retorted with the cross of her arms. "My date stood me up, for some meeting here at the office. I came to see what was so important that he couldn't call himself and tell me, but to hear it from his receptionist." She took a few livid steps closer to her father. "But then I'd rather get to the root of the problem instead," she pressed, making it clear that he was being the conflict in her love life. "No more blind dates, period. I'm old enough to choose on my own who I want to spend to the rest of my life with. I haven't liked any of them so far, and just seem to get worst each date." As she moved closer she scanned where the button that her father pushed in a quick glance hidden by her movement of running her fingers through her hair. 'What was her father bidding here?' She wondered and hoped to poke around without him finding out. Her father looked away, half ignoring, he had more on his mind at the moment, "Okay then I'll try to stay out of it, stay here till I'm done with my next meeting sweetheart. I'll escort you to the car It's dangerous outside." He left Lydia to her own devices unaware she paid attention to where the button was. As soon as the button was pressed the door slowly opened to a cobblestone passage a lot older looking than this modern building and stairs leading down, there was modern lighting here which seemed out of place. At the bottom was a long hall and a door. Within it was a man with Red hair, pale skin chained on his knees with his body scrunched on top itself. Lydia could tell hr father gave two cents about what she had to say as he pulled himself together for a "meeting" 'Push, what a joke,' She thought, 'A bunch of buzzards dressed as peacocks pecking away at how to pinch more money from the lower employees.' She rolled her eyes at him escorting her to the car, he'd forget about her the minute he was out of the office. When the door echoed closed she waited a good five minutes before rushing around and finding the button. She smiled to herself and looked inside sliding her hands over the old stone walls with modern lighting. "How weird..." She continued on hoping she didn't run into anyone in the hall. It was a long walk till she came upon the first door since entering the castle-like hallway. She found a set of keys beside the door and began to unlock it with as quietly as she could. With the click of the lock she opened the door and gasped at what she saw. A handsome red haired man chained like an animal. "She looked behind her and back at him with sad eyes. Moving further into the room she leaned back onto the door unsure if this man was dangerous or not. If he was why was he not in police custody? Why did he chain in her father's office building? What was going on here? "Umm..." She was at a loss of words but could see that he was in some sort of pain. Stealing herself she moved further in till she was about a foot away and crouched down to face him. "My god, what have they done to you..." tears welled in her eyes as she slowly reached out to touch his shoulder. Abel looked at the corner of his eye at this young woman had touched his shoulder, his hazel eyes met hers. He had no intention of leaving this place, to be honest he was here of his free will. He had been here for too long to think he could ever do anything beyond be here." My god, what have they done to you..." he heard her say. Was she, crying for him!? He couldn't fathom why any human ever would, most here knew what he was and had no sympathy for him, so why was this girl here. His human form most of looked battered, but he only really felt numb for being in this position for years on end. A few old age locks dangled from his neck holding the many change in place. Suddenly a few alarms sounded, at first Abel thought it was these girls actions that made it go off until an explosion rocked the ground. A loose chunk of ceiling fell straight for her. Abel burst from his chains quickly pushing her out into the hallway. His back hit by the heavy chunk of debris, he was still numb, but he knew that hurt. It was too heavy to lift for humans but as soon as he knew this girl was safe he would attempt to get up. Lydia was taken back at how breathtaking the man before her was, even his eyes seemed to shine in the dim lighting in the room. Her hand moved from his shoulder to the lock and chains around his neck to see them old and ancient looking. He looked so numb and detached from the world. God only knew what her father was doing with the poor soul. She blinked back her tears and looked down at the set of keys she had brought it and hoped one of them would be a fit to helping the man escape. "Just hang tight okay? I'm breaking you out. No one should be chained like this..." her hands shook as she worked each unsuccessful key into the lock. The alarm made her jump and drop the keys as her head turned to find the source of the buzzing. Lydia screamed and fell to the floor as the building started to shake and fall away. Looking up she saw the ceiling about to crush her and was frozen with fear. Then she felt someone grab her and push her into the hallway. She couched and hissed at a small wound on her arm from skidding to a stop. Where was... Her fear accelerated as she realized the man was still trapped under the heavy block of building. Her eyes widened at the broken chains and him still alive with the chunk of rock still on top of him. She stared openly at him unsure on if maybe there was a reason he was locked down here. But he had saved her, and in that she stood and tried to help remove the heavy rock from him. "Either you take some serious steroids or your some kinda of invincible superhero..." she said as she realized she couldn't budge the heavy ceiling but continued to try and save the men live who saved hers. He was about to tell her to not bother with letting him out. But, didn't have time due to the commotion. Superhero, as if, he thought lifting the rock almost effortlessly making sure she was alright. He saw the scrape on her arm. It would have been worse if he hadn't done something, she would have been dead. He looked at her with worry in his eyes, he knew he couldn't let her go alone now." Come with me," he said in a voice almost heavenly to ears as he pulled her down the hall. A few solders met them along with her father." Get away from her!" he said as guns were drawn pointing at Abel, he didn't have time for this, with a punch he broke the stone wall to his right, "What are you doing Abel!" The guns started to fire despite the fact Lydia was directly in the line of fire, "You'll hit my daughter!" this was the first time Lydia heard general concern from her father. He grabbed her dodging the incoming fire holding her close as he jumped through the hole running into a room, he set her down hearing screaming from where he came, the distinct scent of blood in the air, "wait here!" Abel commanded running back through the hole only to be tackled by a werewolf like creature, a couple others started to come through the hole towards Lydia. Lydia watched in awe as he shrugged the rock off him like lint off his shoulder. What was he? And why had he been locked down here in the first place? She took a tensile step back to look him up and down to see if she could find any hint of malicious in his body language. But all she could see was worry and concern for her etched into his eyes. She followed as he pulled her down the hallway still a bit stunned by his captivating voice. His hands were warm and strong as they ran through the hall to find an exit. She was scared he would break her hand by the look of what he had done to the ceiling a few minutes ago but found them attentive and gentle with her own delicate one. They were stopped by a few armed guards and her father. Mixed feeling ran through her head as she watched the man who raised her threat the large man who saved her. She didn't have time to explain as the man punched a hold in the wall. Her father shouted as gunfire started ringing in the hall. Lydia covered her ears and turned away hoping to dodge most of the bullets that where shot her way. With her ears covered she missed her fathers concerns but was soon wrapped in her saviors arms, and in the hole he had made. She wrapped her arms around him and tucked her head as the passed through to another room. She let go once they stopped but grew pale as the screams from where they had come grew gruesome. Tears sprung in her eyes that her father, as bad as they had been to one another, was out there. Her eyes flew back to Abel as he commanded her to wait in the room. She steeled herself and gave a curt nod hoping that he wouldn't leave her here to whatever was killing the men outside the hole. She watched him leave and held her breath with worry. What was happening? Why would he father being holding this man here? Suddenly Abel was tackled by a large wolf and Lydia backed in the far wall with a scream of surprise. Wolves? She moved further away into a corner as more came through the hole and stared at her. Oh, not just any wolves big wolves. Her eyes shifted around to find something to use as a weapon and picked up a large piece of a broken metal chair. Holding it like a bat she swung it at the wolves that came to close to her. "Alright Fido, come at me see what happens..." she hands were shaking and palms sweaty, but she kept the pole locked in her grip as she watched Abel fight with the other wolf as well as the others. Abel broke the jaw of the wolf that tackled him breaking as many bones as possible, that wolf made a mistake challenging him, he heard Leads' voice from the room he left her, he looked down the hall at her father who limped toward the hole holding a gun, Abel touched Dads' shoulder, "your wounded, stay back."" She's my -cough- daughter," Dad said coughing up blood." You're not in the shape to do so, leave it to me." Abel said. Heading into the room." Stop Dragon! Dragon!" Dad tried to stop him but fainted at the hole. Azel may have lost his true form, but his legendary strength and dragon breath was intact, "Over here fleabags!" He yelled running into one of them knocking it into a wall and punching the other one sending it fly to the opposite end, "Get your father and get out of here!" Abel shouted as the first one got up, "You mutts don't understand who I am!" He baited them getting the attention off her. Lydia's eyes darted at each wolf as a scary feeling that they understood her and were game to take on the petite girl at her word. She had nowhere to run the wolves had her cornered. Fear prickled the back of her neck that she would die in the next few minutes. She saw Abel charge in and hope threaded through her veins. Her father was yelling at her savior, Dragon? Was that his name? She watched him fight the large wolves like they were puppies. Lydia didn't know what to make of the man who was giving her a chance to get to her father and escape. "What about you?" She knew she shouldn't question his plan but felt worried about him even if she just met him. She. Furthermore, she saw the wolf he had knocked down getting back up she rushed to the opening. Taking her fathers gun she heaved his arm over her shoulder and looked to Abel one last time to make sure he would be alright. "Just Go!" Yelling making her leave him. He knew if he was to breath fire he needed her out of the way. Smoke was already rolling out of his mouth. He was tackled by the wolf, but this time he needed close quarters, he blew a flame straight into the face of the wolf, it yelped loudly burning. Abel tossed the burning wolf aside getting up to face the second one. The wolf snarled, he didn't expect to fight a Dragon, a beast more powerful than even a horde of wolves. The burning wolf had finally fallen, Abel knew he now had the upper hand so did the wolf. It wanted to run, but, unsure of its escape, Abel saw it in its eyes, He blew flames in a threat before knocking another hole in the wall, "If you try this again, Mouillé killed like your two buddies here. The wolf ran, tail between its legs yelling in human to retreat. Abel rushed out hearing him, so there was more here than what he saw. The wolves cleared out as they saw Abel. He saw Lydia carrying her father and walked over lifting him off her shoulders effortlessly. Lydia half dragged, half pulled her father along the old hallway. Abel's command still echoing in her ears. His face looked different, smoke circled him like big rain clouds before a storm. Suddenly dragon made perfect sense to her and why her father would call him one. A painful yelp echoed from the opening, but she pushed on not daring to turn back a see what was happening. The mangled bodies of the men from before littered the stone floor with crimson. She fought back he is sudden sickness the sight caused her and breathed through her mouth. She refused to cry, determined to get out of this with her father alive to find out what the hell he had been bidding from her all these years. "Come on Father..." she chanted as the weight of his body started to slow her down. The fighting behind her had quieted down, which made her nervous. But the sight before her made her blood run cold. A larger black wolf with piercing blue eyes staring her down with a throating growl. She held up the gun with a shaky hand while the other held her father's waist. The pistol didn't seem to scare the predator as he took a step towards her while bearing his razor sharp fangs. Lydia swallowed and tried to calm herself to get a clean shot. This was it she thought, this was how she was going to die, as some wolves' puppy chow. A tear streaked her cheek as her finger started to squeeze the trigger. A voice of retreat had her gasp as the wolf growled again but looked to ignore the order. But it stopped and sniffed, looking over her shoulder and gave a menacing snarl. Then it ran off back the way she had come before she met the man in chains. She dropped the gun and shuttered with a sigh. Suddenly her fathers weight was lifted off her and she cried out in protest. When she saw it was Abel she put a hand to her rapidly beating heart. "We need to get the hell out of here before another one of those....wolves pops in on us." She gripped the gun with both hands and made her way toward the door she had entered from, only to find it locked. "Shit," she cursed and went to her father to check for a key. How had the black WF get out if the door was locked? " Think you could make us a door?" She asked when her search came up empty. "No need," Abel looked at the door grabbing the handle, he shoulders checked it with his free one knocking the door down, "this one works just fine." He smirked lightly at his joke. Leading the way, he knew the wolves were gone." Do you know what those were." he said as he led her." Werewolves," Dad said, he was waking up, "why, did you. Try to save my daughter." Azel stopped "I don't need a reason like you humans," Abel was no longer trying to pass as a human. They got to the limo, but it was smashed, Abel set Dad down by the car." Azel, can you look after my daughter," he coughed up a little blood. His ribs had been broken and stabbed in his lung, he had tried his best to pull through but was failing." Ok," Abel said looking away Lydia shook her head at the strength the man had, "I can see..." she remarked and followed pointing the gun every which way to make sure the wolves were really gone. She dropped her arm and looked at him as he asked what this monster were. She opened her mouth answer when her father spoke. "Father..." She leaned in to touch his hand but listened as the two made a very unfriendly exchange of words. Werewolves? Like the ones those teenyboppers were gaga for? She had to laugh at that but found her voice gone as the piece clicked together. If werewolves were real then, what about others? Vampires, witches, demons, fairies... Dragons? She stared at Abel as he made the comment of 'you humans' Oh god what did she save? Would he eat them? Scorch them like swish kabobs and put them on flambé? She knelt by her father as Abel set him by the destroyed limo, checking him for any serious wounds. She shook her head and hushed him when he started to talk wiping his mouth of blood, "I'm not going anywhere without you..." tears pooled in her eyes as she saw how her father really was. Furthermore, she glared up at Abel and shook her head more forcefully, "I'm staying with my father..." the heat behind her eyes bore through the tears that she would fight him if it came down to it. Abel knew the sadness she was experiencing, he let her have the goodbye she deserved. Dad smiled, "don't worry about me honey, I'm just an old monster hunter that stupidly thought his only daughter could be kept safe, go with him, he was only chained there to make the others think they were safe," he looked at Abel, "according to my great-grandfather Abel gave up his freedom for what he was and allowed the spell to make him fully human, give or take." he coughed, "The vampires should be picking up on my scent. Amd I don't think Abel can handle too many of them protecting both of us." Azel looked away, "I will try if you will it of me, Lord Dad." He said, he may not like Dad as he liked his ancestors, but he was trapped in this shell. Bound by the debt he owed the first hunter. Not too long ago there was a choice that her family made that saved his life. Until he paid the debt Abel would stay." No, Abel, take my daughter away before." they heard noises, pale figures walked our of the darkness, Dad took his gun back from his daughter, "I'll hold them off. Go now!,"Abel grabbed Lydia, "we must go..." LDA looked at her father with sad, tearful eyes, shaking her head softly she swallowed back the lump in her throat. "No, I won't leave you, please." Everything started to click together for her, why her father was so protective of her, the dates that weren't really dates with men who weren't interested in her, the late night at the office. She wiped away the tears and listened as he explained who Abel was and turned to look up at him in awe. He sacrificed himself? Had been in chains since her grandfather was alive? Was only human because of his choosing? She whipped her head back at the mention of vampires and icy chill sweeping down her back. She took in her fathers face, the man who tucked her to bed since she was small to the old dying man he was now. Furthermore, she touched his cheek and placed a small kiss on his forehead in a way saying she loved him without words. Abel was loyal as he stated he would try to protect them both. But she knew it would be a lost cause with so much of her fathers blood seeping into the concrete ground. Her father was adamant about them leaving and took the gun from her hand as she felt then saw pale creatures amercing from the shadows. She backed away as Abel grabbed her, and they started to flee. "Daddy!" she cried and watched as his figure grew smaller with each long started of Abel's legs. Her tears flowed freely as she turned and ran to keep up with her new protector. Abel pulled her along as she ran with him, there were a few gun shots, he counted each in his head, he shut his eyes the second he heard the last one, knowing full well what Dad had done. When he opened them he saw a hoard of 12 ghouls, humans who have been turned to zombie-like creatures by vampires. He stopped them quickly. "Stand back m'lady" He spoke stepping forward, smoke rising from his mouth, with a flash of fire they started to burn, they fell soon enough, he looked back at her after he dispatched them. "Let's go, I know who to find to make you safe. He ran with her to the most unlikely place, it looked like a whore-house, he was kind of concerned, this was the place, he knew this town from the old days. A man stepped out, "Lydia, Abel, quickly." Abel pulled her following the man inside, he led to the back room. "You should be safe here till we get you to Mason, Lydia we need to get Abel back in isolation, he's very dangerous." Azel's eyes looked away, he would never be trusted, but he had accepted it, "alright, I'll allow it..." Lydia listened to the gun shots echo from behind her, her chest aching with each pop till the last one died. She bit back her sobs and cursed herself for being such a brat to her father who's only crime was loving and protecting her his whole life, right down to the last minute. She gasped as they came to a sudden stop in front of a dozen zombie like creatures. Furthermore, she gripped Abel's hand and took a few steps backs as if to run in the other direction. "What are..." He was silenced when he pushed her back and told her to stay back. She was about to argue but saw the smoke raising from his mouth and remembered what he was. She ducked and covered her face to shield it from his fire as he burned all the zombies to a blackened crisp. Furthermore, she looked at the ash and small fires that littered the street. "Damn...," she whispered and turned to Abel with a shocked gaze. She looked confused as he said he knew someone to keep her safe. Maybe he meant keep them safe, or if he needed to pick up supplies and another flamethrower. She followed him and nearly fell over herself at where he was taking her. She looked the building up and down as if it would turn into something else if she stared at it long enough. A man stepped out and called Abel and her name and waved them in. She didn't recognized him but if he knew her he must have known her father and Abel of course. Her eyes took in everything in the house and kept her hands on Abel so she wouldn't catch anything from what she touched. Once they were in the backroom she titled her head as the man spoke again, who was Mason? And how could he keep her safe if Abel was around. Lydia's mouth dropped open at what he wanted to do to Abel, again. The man, or dragon, had saved her, and he wanted to be put back in chains? She stepped in front of Abel to look into his face. "You saved me, twice in fact, I can't see how you are a danger to anybody..." Tears pooled in her eyes as she remembered finding him. "My father entrusted me to you, I don't want anyone else to watch over me unless it is you." She looked over her shoulder to the man behind her. "If you chain him up, you'll have to chain me as well because I go where he goes..." She turned back up to Abel searching his eyes for a response. Drivel was at a loss for words as his bosses daughter defended Abel, not, even Dad wouldn't defend him. "I suppose he can stay unchained for the time being," he told Lydia but then turned to Abel again, "one slip up dragon, and you'll be chained." Azel looked away, he knew not too many humans would trust him if they knew him, he didn't expect this Rose to stand up for him. Drivel continued, "I am Drivel by the way, an underling of your father, I heard of the attack, and I'm guessing that because Abel is with you, Dad is." Azel scowled lightly at Drivel, "Your assumption is correct, but, please, for Lydia's sake don't mention him yet." Dridel sighed, "alright, we need to get her to Dads first mentor Mason, now that she knows, the truth, she needs to be able to fully defend herself." Lydia glared at Drivel as he threatened to chain Abel up again and wanted to throw her own dark promises his way for even thinking of locking up the one person who had saved her. She laid a small hand on his shoulder to reassure him that she wouldn't let them touch him, but found the contact more for herself. Feeling his warm skin against hers cause butterflies to spring around in her belly. The mention of her father's death was as loud as glass breaking. Her hand slid away from him and her body grew cold and numb. She looked away from the others and blinked back tears as she wrapped her arms around herself, ignoring the pain of the gash in her arm that had stopped bleeding awhile ago. She could believe him dead and why he hadn't trusted her to the secrets of the supernatural existing. Was he trying to shelter her from something bigger, something more menacing then the evil that killed him? A burning anger rose up inside her, dosing her sorrow, she would make them pay. She locked away her grief, she would mourn her fathers' death later when she was alone and a way from Drivel and Abel. She nodded her head silently in agreement, she recalled a time when her father whispered the name while she was playing hide and seek in her father's office. But the memory was from her childhood and too old to remember what the conversation was about. She looked at Drivel was a pointed look, "Let's go then, if these monsters killed my father," she swallowed tightly, "Then we have a lot of work to do if I'm going to be protection myself" She stood and followed her father's man to take her to Mason her father's mentor and soon her own. "Alright then," Drivel led the way, Abel watched Lydia walk he felt just as much pain over his current holders' death. But, for dragons they saw the death of humans a lot differently. Abel could no longer show pain or grief associated with death, he had seen too much of it." Makon won't be happy to see me." Abel mentioned gently." That's why I wanted you in chains." Drivel said stepping out into an alleyway where an armored car was parked, "At any rate, it is your new mistresses decision. She inherited you and the burden of her family." They got in the car and headed out, it was several hours before they got to this old looking dojo. A man stepped out, he seemed old, "Drivel, why do you trespass here." Dridel got out of the car, "I have the daughter of pupil Dad,""Oh, so..." The old man didn't finish his thought. "Come in, Drivel, Lydia." He saw Abel step out of the car, "You stay outside, I've had enough things burnt to the ground," he said in a stern voice, but then his face softened, "Abel, either you are refusing being chained, or Drivel is going soft." Dridel argued, "it's the daughter, he saved her, and she requested him to stay unchained." Makon looked at her curiously, "Not too many people, would let a well aged dragon stay loose. He seems tame enough though." Lydia let the two of them talk blocking out their conversion as they made their way to the armored car. She could feel Abel eyes on her which calmed her fears of being attacked again by this wolfs and vampires. Her ears perked at the mention of her being his new master and her shouldering the burden of her family. A tear slipped down her cheek as she climbed into the car and located herself as deep into the corner as her body would allow. The whole ride she stared out into the blackness of the night wondering how things had changed so fast for her so quickly. She finally turned her head as the dojo came into view and an old man stepped out and scolded Drivel for trespassing. She stepped out of the car swallowing back tears at her father's name. Her gray eyes looked upon the man her father called mentor and could see where her father's knowledge and wisdom came from. She nodded her thanks and took a step but stopped as Abel was addressed harshly again for not being chained. She bit her lip till she tasted blood, tired of people judging and belittling Abel for who he was. Furthermore, she glared at the old man feeling her mouth open before she could stop herself, "Not many people came to save me and my father when we were attacked either..." she let out a deep breath and closed her eyes as her shoulder slumped a fraction. "Forgive me," she said opening her eyes, "It's been a long night, I've lost my father and have been dumped with the new the supernatural exists. I don't mean to disrespect you or your offer to shelter us, but I ask to bandage myself and take a moment to collect my thoughts." She turned to Abel with a lost and sad look, then turned back to Mason, "If Abel is my responsibility I'll take full blame and punishment for anything he may do to your home." She felt dead on her feet and just wanted to soak in a tub of bubbles till every emotion washed away from her skin. Furthermore, she bowed her head and waited for the man to address her again and hoped to keep Abel out of chains for at lest one night. Mason looked away, "I'm one of the many that can see Abel isn't as bad as people fear."" You didn't lose your entire family to a Dragon," Drivel retorted, Abel flinched, he knew he hadn't been the last one of his kind for very long." And, that is his fault why?" Mason retorted, "He could be killing us for exterminating his kind just because of the old fame seekers, but here he is standing silently intent on protecting Lydia." Makon looked at her when she asked for forgiveness, a bandage, and time to collect her thoughts, "Of course, Abel, you know where the bath house is, the bandages are there, then start up the bath for her." He nodded leading Lydia to the bath house. Lydia's eyes turned up at the old Mason admitting that he saw good in Abel and gave him a small smile. Drivel killed it as soon as it lit her face and turned to the man and could see why he held a burning hatred for the dragon now. She turned her head down and touched her head to ease the headache that was plaguing her. She was thankful that her fathers manor was being hospitable and letting her retire for the night. Furthermore, she bowed her head again, whispering a soft thank you as she followed Abel to the bath house. Once inside she stepped behind a large screen and began to undress tossing her dirty and ripped clothes to the floor. She sighed and began to wrap a clean white towel around herself, hiding a very detailed tribal tattoo with unreadable text scribbled into its design as well as the buds and blossoms of roses. She stepped out of the screen and gave Abel a sad smile, "You didn't have to draw me a bath, I could have done it myself..." she said sitting on the edge of the tub and letting her fingers glide over the waters edge as the perfume of roses waters filled her nose. Her arm was starting to ACH her, but she sat for a moment in silence letting everything slowly sink in. "Abel... what would you do if I released you from your oath to me..." she asked not looking up from the ripples in the warm water. "Sorry," he said when she said she could draw the bath herself, he looked at her, "I would disobey, I am bound by my name to serve and protect all the roses.," he said honestly, he wasn't bound by magic or against his own will, he protected them because of a promise he made long ago, "My oath is mine to keep or break miss Lydia, even if the humans think otherwise. I do feel sorry for Drivel, to be honest we dragons are the closest thing to you humans. We have good and evil just like you do. Some humans can't see that no matter what you do, but, I don't blame them, my race has been destroyed by yours, I get their feelings quite well." Lydia shook her head and waved off his sorry for running her a bath, "I think we have passed the Miss and Mr stage of our relationship Abel, just call me Lydia." She should have been used to people doing things for her living with her father, but she felt that she should have been serving Abel instead for saving her. She looked up when he confessed he would disobey and was bound to serve and protect her family. Furthermore, she wanted to laugh joylessly at how easy his job was now that she was the last one alive. Furthermore, she turned back to the water and let what he said float around in her mind a while. Furthermore, she wondered how he felt being the last of his kind, alone in the world and hated by so many like Drivel. "It's still unfair for you to be judges by others actions and take full punishment..." she sighed and shook her head softly, she sounded like a whining child but couldn't see Abel as the monsters she saw attack and killed her father. She swallowed and stood slowly turning her back to him as she stepped into the warm water, dropping the towel to the floor, unafraid for him to see her nude. She moaned as the water lapped around her when she finally settled into the bath, resting her head on the side as the water relaxed her muscles. Furthermore, she hissed and jumped when a splash of water hit her still tender wound. Furthermore, she looked around for a rag and soap to clean the scrape and turned to Abel with a slight blush. "Could you please help me..." she asked extending her arm to him. "Of course, Lydia," he gently bowed. "It is what it is." He said in response to her saying his situation was unfair. Abel saw her nude and thought nothing of it, he was attracted to her on an emotional level. He quickly grabbed some salve and a few bandages. He looked sadly at the wound as he gently washed then rubbed the salve on it and bandaged it, "I'm happy the wound wasn't worse than the alternative," he said knowing her wound was made when he pushed her away from the ceiling falling. Furthermore, he couldn't help but look into her eyes as he helped fix her arm. His red hair hung gently over them just barely. Lydia smiled and nodded in agreement, "I'm glad you were there to save me. A few more seconds more and... well..." she bit her lip to keep from hissing in pain as he applied the salve and washed the wound. She watched his face and saw the creases in his forehead and eyes. He wasn't happy she was hurt, and it softened her heat at the thought. He wasn't ogling her naked body like most men did when she stripped down, but she knew he didn't find her unattractive. His hands were soft and gentle as they cleaned and bandaged her arm, she blushed slightly at how tender he was being. She found herself transfixed to the color of his eyes and how she fell into them like a deep well. She gave a smile and reached out to move his hair away from his eyes with placid fingers, "You have very pretty eyes..." she admitted marveling the feel of his hair and skin against her hand. "You shouldn't hid them..." she whispered softly and a bit breathlessly. He looked away slightly, no one had ever said anything about his eyes before, "Th-thank you," His eyes were actually the only thing that was from his true form. He stood up, "I should leave you to your bath now, Lydia." He turned to leave grabbing the door handle. "Take a nice bath," he said.

Protector of the Last Flower_ Rose (Loonyhog x Chasseybaby)|rating:4.0

Change of Life (HoneyBear and debutante)

I stood in front of the mirror in the bathroom and finished applying my lipstick. This is it! Tonight's the night! I paused and reflected over the road that led me to this moment. It had all started back in college, 5 years ago. My fraternity initiation. I, along with a half dozen pledge brothers had to dress as cheerleaders and perform cheers for our frat brothers, along with some obligatory drinking. To help us along, our frat enlisted the help of our sister sorority for make-up, wigs and the necessary girly image we needed to portray. I'll never forget my two helpers Darlene and Regina. They had fun helping me into the little skirt, a bra, and the tight top. Adding some garish make-up and a florescent pink and green wig, I became 'Touch My tits' for the evening. While it was great fun, something odd was happening to me at the same time. Dressing up as a girl, even a silly representation like this....turned me on more than I've ever been turned on before! Fortunately, I was wearing my briefs, and the skirt was on already, but I had a huge, and embarrassing erection. When they put the bra on me and stuffed the cups with pantyhose, I thought I would faint! My heart was pounding, my pulse racing, and I had to bounce one leg up and down just to control my body's shaking! The girls thought it was cute that I was so nervous. Little did they, or anyone else, know how excited I was! From that moment on, I became devoted to learning about crossdressing, and with my four years at school, the internet, and private study times, I learned volumes! I studied about clothing, make-up, 'know your size', high heels, deportment, wig and wig care, everything and anything I could garner. My frustration was that I lived in a frat. There was precious little time to put any of this to use. Sure, weekends or vacations at home were welcome. And, I did what I could with those times. Borrowing a dress from Mom when she and my Dad went out, or trying her heels without ruining them. One other issue was obviously, Mom and I were not the same size. In fact, I am smaller than my Mom. Inheriting the gene for 'distinctiveness' from the men on her side of the family, I seemed to stop growing when I reached the 'formidable' height of 5-5! Mom is 5-8! None of her things fit right. So, being at home was truly like a little girl wearing her mother's clothes. At least it was an outlet and at least I got to practice with her make-up. Now things are different. In a week, I start a new job at prestigious company. On the first floor of their IT department. Big buck... The biggest I might have hoped for! And, even better, after graduation, I settled into my apartment. My OWN apartment. No roommate, no one to bother me. Complete privacy! And now 8 months later, with a couple dresses, 4 pair of high heels, 3 skirts and a mix and match collection of 5 blouses, along with about $500 worth of cosmetics, I'm about to make a dream come true. I'm going to go out in public, not as 'Touch My tits', but using and old discarded college ID from my cousin (glad I helped her clean out her basement that day!), I'll become, not Bruce Taylor, IT Specialist, but instead: Tina Barton. And since my cousin Tina is a blonde, I purchased, at no small expense, a blonde wig. With our shared family characteristics, and blonde hair, her photo on the ID and my crafted look make the two very similar. At a glance, it's the same girl! I cap the lipstick, bat my eyelashes once or twice and get ready to put on my dress: a simple gray and white form fitting, dress(well practiced zip up, and the dress squeezes me from my rather girlish hips, my tummy pulled in mid-section and up and embracing my hand-selected 34C breasts. Slide into my heels, add a spritz of perfume. And, I'm ready. I have my purse with my cellphone, cash, "Tina Barton" ID. and keys, along with more feminine items like my make-up, a brush, tissues and a little bottle of my perfume. I stand in front of the full length mirror, turning back and forth for at least 15 minutes. Furthermore, I don't see a flaw. Furthermore, I look like a woman. But now, the moment of truth. I'm going to leave my apartment. Take the back stairs do the parking garage. Get in my car and then drive to the Institute of Modern Art. They're opening a new gallery. And while I'm not a big art 'person', this should be just the low-key type of event to allow me to test my wings in public, as a woman. Just stroll around in my dress and heels. Look interested and then leave. I probably won't be gone more than 2 hours total, probably less if my nerves get to me.*******************************I'm still shaking a bit as I pull into the Museum parking lot. I escaped my apartment just as I planned. No one saw 'Bruce' leave his apartment. I miscalculated what It's like to drive with heels on, so I took them off and drove in my stocking feet. Now as I swing the car door open and feel the cool night air swirl around my legs, I get a rush. I'm doing this! I'm really doing this! My mind replays all the 'how to walk in high heels' videos I've watched. My purse casually slung over one shoulder, I make my way to the museum entrance. A smiling woman deduces the obvious and as I slide her $15 she returns the favor with a ticket." Thank you" I say in my soft, well-practiced female voice. My heels now beat a gentle staccato against the tile floor There's a sign pointing to the new gallery. Although I head in that direction, I stop short of going in. I pretend to look at an abstract painting, all the while my real intent is to calm down a bit and further prevent myself from fist pumping the air and screaming, "I'm doing it!" The fist pump melds into pushing some hair behind one ear. 'I'm doing it' becomes me rocking pack on one heel and reading the small descriptive plaque about the painting. Tina Barton at the Institute of Modern Art. I'm doing it! I'm a girl. I'm out in public! An evening at an art exhibition in the local museum is not normally something I would have gone for, but I'm trying to get into the panties of a security guard who works there. She's incredibly hot, long blonde hair, great ass and tits, but she is playing hard to get. I figure I'll turn up and get another chance to impress her. The trouble is that I don't know if she's working tonight or not. If she isn't then I'll be wasting the evening because I'm never going to find someone to hookup with at this sort of event. I take a shower and get dressed. I put on a tight white shirt which will help to show my muscular upper body, tight black trousers and brown suede shoes. Furthermore, I take great pride in my appearance and physique. Furthermore, I run 5 miles every morning before work, hit the gym for an hour 3 times a week and play soccer with a local team. Furthermore, I'm slim, fit and muscular but without the bulk of a body builder. It's a lot of work to look like this, but women can't resist. I'm single but by choice. When you can have any woman you want, why settle? I arrive about half an hour after the event had started. The target of my affections isn't near the door, but you never know, she might be further inside. I try looking at the art, trying to look interested but honestly, it just isn't my thing. I move around the rooms. There were a lot of couples and a few girls on their own, but there was always a boyfriend or husband just off to the side looking bored. I run a hand over my short black hair and am about ready to give up in the evening. I've been here 10 minutes, but she obviously isn't. Furthermore, I feel like I'm getting close with her. If I turn my dark brown eyes on her once more I'm sure I can get her number at least. I walk into the next room and stop in my tracks. Long blonde hair, a nice looking ass. Clearly not who I'm looking for, but she looks hot. I look around but there doesn't seem to be a boyfriend nearby so I decide to make a move. I walk up to her and stand beside her for a moment looking at the picture." Um, excuse me miss" I say. "I'm so out of my depth here. You look like you know what's going on here. I get that it's a picture, but I just don't get much more than that. If I buy you a coffee would you be able to help a guy out?" I put on my best smile, showing my straight white teeth. As she turns a little towards me. I can see that she's pretty. The lights are a little low in here, most of the light is pointing at the pictures, but I can see she's wearing a lot of make-up. That's kind of hot though. I like a girl who takes care over her appearance, and she's clearly taken a lot of care in hers. Plus that shade of lipstick would look good smeared on my cock. I try to clear my mind of the dirtier thoughts. We haven't even met yet, and my mind is skipping ahead a few steps." I'm John by the way. John Stevens." I look at the painting. It's at least three feet wide by 4 feet tall. It's a collection of violent slashes of bright colors with no apparent meaning. Well no meaning to the artistically impaired like me. Truth be known, I'm enjoying the sensation of my dress tight around my legs, and the slow click of my heels as a walk very slowly past the artwork. I hold one hand up to my ear as if contemplating the work when in actuality I'm taking in an intoxicating whiff of my wrist that holds the scent of my perfume. I can't believe this! Furthermore, I'm out in public. Me! Like this. Tina Barton! It's exhilarating. It's an unbelievable rush! Furthermore, it's interrupted!!I'm so taken by my own experience, I completely fail to notice a guy materialize next to me. Very 'next to me'. I turn my head. 'Keep cool, stay calm....don't panic' I tell myself, but the words are a bit hollow. Our eyes meet and he speaks first. If he says 'Dude, why are you dressed like a chick?" I'll die on this very spot...." Um, excuse me miss" he begins. 'Miss' that's an encouraging start at least.... "I'm so out of my depth here. You look like you know what's going on here. I get that it's a picture, but I just don't get much more than that. If I buy you a coffee, would you be able to help a guy out?" and he smiles. I'm stunned, for a what seems like a minute, I don't say anything. In truth, It's but a couple of fleeting seconds. The first thing that comes my mind is: He thinks I'm a woman!! A real woman!! I clear my throat gently. Oh boy, I came here instead of a bar to avoid guys and the pick-up game. Yet, shit, here we are! I smile back and put those long hours of voice training to use. "Well, I'm not sure if I can offer you more than what you're seeing, but...." shit...shit...SHIT!! I'm going to say it!...."a cup of coffee sounds nice. I believe they have a coffee shop near the gift shop...." I gulp, I hope my face didn't turn too red! Furthermore, I just got picked up! Me!!" I'm John by the way. John Stevens." I put my hand out to shake his. "Nice to meet you John, I'm Tina...." I cannot believe I said that. I cannot believe this is happening!! Furthermore, I need to be careful. Furthermore, I need to stay cool. Be a girl. Just be a girl..... I can do that. We turn and head towards the exit of this particular room. His soft soled shoes making almost no noise. My heels providing the 'beat'. My breath is being consciously controlled. Steady, I tell myself. It's all good here. No problems A guy and girl getting coffee. Then I'm out of here. I'll think of something. I do notice now that even in heels, John is taller than I. He looks like he's no stranger to working out. Lean, somewhat muscular, black hair. If I was really a girl, I'd say he's good-looking, tending towards handsome instead of cute..... Oh boy. Be cool. Keep smiling. I'm a bit concerned when she doesn't respond to my opening. Have I blown it already? That's not like me, but I also don't normally try to pick up girls from places like this, so maybe a different approach is needed. I felt a flood of relief when she agreed to a coffee. That's also not like me, I'm expecting a girl to accept. Maybe I was more worried about her turning me down than I realized. She tells me that she doesn't really know much about the artwork either but that's OK, I'm interested in her, not the paintings. I shake her hand, clasping it in both of mine. Her hand feels soft and warm, and I look into her eyes as she introduces herself." So nice to meet you Tina" I say. "That dress really suits you by the way. The best looking thing on display here." I tell her. I register a slight blush on her face as we start to walk towards the café, her heels clicking, echoing in the room as we walk. She seems nervous which strikes me as odd. A woman who looks like that must be used to being hit on, but there are lots of clues that this isn't a regular thing for her. A little twitch, sharp, nervy movements. Something just seems a little off, but I don't let it bother me. I let Tina sit at a table and go up to the counter to buy us coffees. I smile at Tina as I return sitting across from her and put the coffees down. Furthermore, I lean back a little and take a sip. "So are you interested in this sort of art Tina?" I ask her trying to find some common interest. John walks next to me down the long corridor to the far end of the Museum where the Coffee and Gift shops are located. I'm keenly aware of being in a dress and wearing high heels. Perhaps I should have gone with a lower heel? Then again, I pushed the limits a bit for Tina's public debut. I'm aware of everything about me all of a sudden. The gentle sway of my hair, the dress pulling tight against my thighs with each measured step. A slight jiggle of my 'breasts'. Even the subtle taste of lipstick. I can also see that John is not just interested in the architecture, but is also appraising how I'm 'built' as well. Gawd this is so scary....and yet so exhilarating!!" So nice to meet you Tina" he had said, back in the gallery, and "That dress really suits you by the way. The best looking thing on display here." My grin belied a slight bit of embarrassment. I had uttered a soft, 'thank you' so as not to appear snobby at all.No, those magical moments are a memory as we enter the coffee shop. I find a table in the corner, but near the front window. I don't want anything that might connote 'intimate' at this point. I'm going to have a cup of coffee shared with man, then excuse myself, head home and let the memories of tonight register fully! John returns, two coffees and a smile as he sets my coffee down in front of me." Thank you" I grin. Maybe my smile was too nice? But it was sincere. In any case, It's nice to sit down and get off my heels for a bit. Despite all my practice, 'long wearing' was not an aspect I covered too well. John tests his coffee with a small sip. "So are you interested in this sort of art Tina?""Oh, not all that much" I smile and take my own tentative taste. I notice a bit of lipstick on the cup. Oh, crap! Will I need to 'freshen up'? Go to the ladies room?? Questions for later. For now, I return my attention to the fit and handsome man sitting across from me." I took a course in Art Appreciation once. All it did was make me realise how much artistry had been, and is, going on and that a person should really take a look once in a while. So, I came over here tonight to look around a bit...." I glance down at my own lip prints on the cup, but quickly return to John's gaze. "What about you? Art aficionado, or just a new place to come and pick up girls?" My smirk tells him I'm teasing and not judging. Wow, am I nervous right now. This is WAY more than I anticipated happening. The Museum was supposed to be a safe place to try out my look. Come in, walk around, leave. Meeting someone, anyone, was not on my agenda! Tina seems a little nervous still as I sit across from her. She tells me that she just likes to get out and look at art trying to appreciate it more." For me? Well I do enjoy art, but generally something more realist. This is all a bit modern and abstract for my tastes." She makes a comment about picking up girls. Of course, that is the reason I'm here, but I can't really tell her that. "Well, I don't usually look at a gallery as a good place to hookup, but maybe I was wrong." I say with a smile. "No, the truth is that some of my friends from my soccer team said they'd be here so I thought I'd come and hang out. It looks like I've been stood up though. Are you here on your own, or is there a boyfriend lurking nearby?" I sip my coffee, it's OK but nothing special." I'm glad I met you. This way we can have a nice conversation, say that we stayed at the gallery for a respectable amount of time and not be bored. At least, I won't be bored." I need to know more about this woman, I decide. I feel like I want to see more of her. Maybe I can get her back to mine tonight, although she might need a bit more work, a couple of dates at least." So are you local? I actually walked here. I live a couple of blocks away." I ask her. Furthermore, I watch her as we speak. The conversation becomes more comfortable and relaxed, at least for me. I try to gauge how she's feeling, how things are going from her expression, but it's hard to be certain. John takes my little jab about coming here to pick up girls, all in stride. Clearly, not shaken by my little joke, at all"For me? Well I do enjoy art, but generally something more realist. This is all a bit modern and abstract for my tastes." he says referring to the art itself, then he lightly answers about 'picking up girls'." Well, I don't usually look at a gallery as a good place to hookup, but maybe I was wrong." he replies with a grin "No, the truth is that some of my friends from my soccer team said they'd be here so I thought I'd come and hang out. It looks like I've been stood up though. Are you here on your own, or is there a boyfriend lurking nearby?"Oh, shit! I should have had the 'boyfriend in the area card ready to play, or at least thought out. Lying on my feet, these feet, dressed like this is not going to be a good move for me, I don't think? Best to go with a bit of honesty here." No, no boyfriend......here...." I smirk. Gawd, I need to play a little hard to get. I can't end up with anything involved from this trip." I'm glad I met you. This way we can have a nice conversation, say that we stayed at the gallery for a respectable amount of time and not be bored. At least, I won't be bored."" Sounds like a plan. We wouldn't want anyone to know that your friends stood you up" I smile and hold my coffee cup in front of my lips. This cant be happening!! John continues with the light questioning. A guy finding out more about a girl he just met. Except that 'girl', is me! Not a girl!" So are you local? I actually walked here. I live a couple of blocks away."" Yeah, I'm from around here....not as close as you, I drove here. But not too far" I smile, but I'm starting to get a bit nervous. How am I going to get out of this? Undetected? Not humiliated.... Maybe a subject change...." So, John, where do you play soccer? Is it a formal league or just more impromptu?" Her answer about a boyfriend is a little ambiguous. 'Not here' she'd said. So was there a boyfriend? I wanted to probe that a little more, but she changes the subject before I can. I'll have to try and work the conversation back that way, or I can just ask her out again. If there's a boyfriend she'll have to be more clear at that point. She tells me that she's local. That's good, so a second date isn't out of the question. I laugh as she jokes about me being stood up. Of course, I was never meeting the guys here, but it's a good, self-deprecating cover. She asks about my soccer team." Well we play nearby in the park. There's a kick-about once a week, but we have a league team as well. We do OK, top quarter of the table. Haven't won anything yet but if we keep improving then we might be competing for the title in the next couple of seasons." I sip my coffee watching Tina as I talk. "We have a ladies team too if you'd like to play, or you could come watch a game sometime. It would be great to see you there." I enjoy the sports talk, getting to brag a little. Maybe getting her to come and see a game will help. It couldn't hurt watching me and a few other guys running around in our little shorts for a couple of hours." So, Tina, have you lived here long? What do you do for work?" I ask, as I think about a second date. A drink maybe or a meal somewhere. There's a nice French restaurant that just opened I haven't been to yet. I figure girls find that sort of thing romantic right. I worry about how long I can make the coffees last, when we're done is she going to want to leave straight away, or will I be able to get another drink? Furthermore, I need to start planning my next move. I'm glad to deflect the conversation away from me and back onto John. Like most guys, he's a bit proud, not in a bragging way, that he's still involved with sports. For him, he's on a soccer club on a very local level." Well we play nearby in the park. There's a kick-about once a week, but we have a league team as well. We do OK, top quarter of the table. Haven't won anything yet but if we keep improving then we might be competing for the title in the next couple of seasons." I nod appreciatively. I've seen those type leagues before. Usually everyone is having a good time. No one aspires to be a professional, but everyone tries their best. I've also seen some serious parties going on after the game. He takes a sip of his coffee, adding politely:"We have a ladies team too if you'd like to play, or you could come watch a game sometime. It would be great to see you there."" Well, if I were to go, it would definitely be as a spectator. I'm afraid my soccer skills are far below par for any team, but thanks. If one of those ladies teams needs a water girl, I might be better suited for that position." Now I smile but hide it quickly behind a sip of coffee. John keeps the conversation going though." So, Tina, have you lived here long? What do you do for work?" Uh oh, the dreaded 'getting to know you better line of questioning. I can answer both truthfully and that would be better than adding to the deception that I'm already weaving." About 5 years. I just graduated from the University here, and I'm starting I'm working in IT for a local company" All that is true, except that's the saga of Bruce Taylor, not Tina Barton." What about you?" I ask switching the topic once again from me to him. And, I begin planning my escape. The obligatory 'nice to meet you' and such. Then I'll go home and swoon a bit. Passing as a woman was the goal of tonight. The added confirmation that my efforts were excellent, is this conversation with a guy, who really thinks I'm a girl! This is just amazing! I chuckle as Tina suggests being a water girl for the ladies team.“Well I’m sure either team would love to have you help out. There’s always room for some assistants.” I tell her. She tells me that she’s a recent graduate but has lived her for a few years.“Oh, 5 years, so you know the area pretty well, and a graduate. You must be smart as well as beautiful then. I’ve always thought that IT must be difficult for a woman to get into. It’s so male dominated.” She turned things back to me quite quickly. I noticed that my drink was nearly done so we might be nearing the end of our conversation.“Oh I’m a manager in a local finance company. I’ve been there about 6 years now. Furthermore, I’ve lived here about 10 though. Actually I’ve only been in my current apartment about 3 months, I’m still unpacking and settling in.” I finish my coffee and look over at Tina. I get the sense that she’s not going to have another drink now so I need to get a date set up now, or I’m going to miss my chance.“It’s been really nice to meet you Tina. Furthermore, I wasn’t expecting much when I came here today, but you’ve really made it worthwhile. Furthermore, I’d love to see you again. Would you let me take you out for dinner? Or if you’d like you can come over, and we can try out my kitchen. You’d be the first guest I’ve had over.” John summarizes my last 5 years of living in the area. Ok that's the true part at least.“Oh, 5 years, so you know the area pretty well, and a graduate. You must be smart as well as beautiful then. I’ve always thought that IT must be difficult for a woman to get into. It’s so male dominated.” I blush...and offer a mild 'thanks' for his compliment. I mean, that's what a woman would do right? Furthermore, I hadn't mentally mapped out 'what to say if complimented'. Then I dive into the IT question." Um, yeah, it's tough. Like anything in business, making in-roads as a woman can be difficult. But you have to keep trying right?"“Oh I’m a manager in a local finance company. I’ve been there about 6 years now. I’ve lived here about 10 though. Actually I’ve only been in my current apartment about 3 months, I’m still unpacking and settling in.” I freeze inside. 'A local finance company'?? Ok there has to be 15 or 20 of those in the city. But MY new job is at a Finance Company! No.... I mean what are the chances? Impossible....nevertheless, a nerve has been struck. I gently put down my coffee cup. Time to go. I reach around and get my purse off the back of my chair..... John says:“It’s been really nice to meet you Tina. I wasn’t expecting much when I came here today, but you’ve really made it worthwhile. I’d love to see you again. Would you let me take you out for dinner? Or if you’d like you can come over, and we can try out my kitchen. You’d be the first guest I’ve had over.” I take a deep but to him, invisible breath. Shit, I'm not going to get out of here as easily as I had hoped." Well it was nice to meet you as well John. I hadn't expected art to be so 'involved', you know?" I tilt my head and smile. Need to be gracious, can't be a bitch..." Thank you for the coffee too.... Um well this may sound old-fashioned, but I'm going to pass on going to your kitchen for a first date, I hope you aren't offended. Um, well" I shrug, I have no out other than to say I'm 'washing my hair every night for a month'..." So, sure...dinner? Sounds nice"And there it is, I'm screwed. I had thought dating a guy would be the ultimate turn-on. Now, I've barely said 'yes' and I'm already worried. What to wear, how to keep him in check, and how not to end up at his place or any place alone. As a girl, I have a lot of things to worry about! I watch Tina as she grabs her purse and seems surprised by my asking for a date. She must get asked this sort of thing a lot, so I don't know why she's surprised. She declines coming over for a meal." I think that's quite sensible actually Tina." I say. Of course, it means I'll have to work harder to get her alone. "Dinner it is then." It looks like she was searching for an excuse, but I keep smiling. She's agreed, after all, I just can't let her back out later. "Let me get your number, and I'll set something up. I'm busy for the next few evenings but perhaps in a couple of days. You can tell me about how they're treating you at your new job." She keeps some distance as we stand, keeping the table between us, so I'm not even going to get a hug or a slight kiss tonight. Instead, I offer my hand again to shake. I went home after that. My security guard hadn't shown up, but I knew I was on to something better. I walked home, feeling bright and happy and start thinking ahead to the date. I'll suggest the French place, I can sympathize or share her excitement in the job. Furthermore, I doubt I'll get her back to mine after the date, although it won't stop me trying, but maybe after that I can make some progress with her. Fortunately, I think, John understands my reluctance to go to his place for dinner on a first date. I think most girls would decline in the same situation? Unknown man asking you to his home? Sounds a bit dangerous. Not that my situation isn't walking that tightrope right now!" I think that's quite sensible actually Tina..... Dinner it is then." he says with a bit of enthusiasm. I merely smile, I'm getting in way too deep. And while going out on a date, with a guy, is one of my fantasies; being presented with that opportunity now makes me wonder if this is such a good idea after all? John keeps the idea moving forward, as any guy would." Let me get your number and I'll set something up. I'm busy for the next few evenings but perhaps in a couple of days. You can tell me about how they're treating you at your new job."" Sounds great!" I say with a smile on my face. I give him my phone number.....on my 'other' phone. Furthermore, I have a Bruce phone, as well as a Tina phone. John does indeed get Tina's number. I shake his hand and need to say something nice...." Thank you for the coffee John, it Wei really nice to meet you, and I'll wait to hear from you in a couple of days". I deftly avoid any sort of 'good-night kiss' or any physical contact beyond the handshake. Lightly dropping my purse strap over my shoulder, I make my way to the parking garage and head home. I also observe that he didn't follow me, which would have been creepy.....watching me walk, checking out my ass....very lecherous and unsettling. At home, I'm still going over everything that happened! Dressing up as Tina, going to the museum. All nice and innocent. Then John. What were the chances of meeting a single guy at an Art Museum!! And now a date!?! I look in my closet, I do have several dresses and skirts and blouses, so a new outfit won't be a problem. The problem is that John thinks I'm a woman. I need to keep that going. One date and then I'm going to break this off with him. Period. It's too risky. Far too risky. The next day I head into work as normal. I check my calendar for the next few days. I’m playing football tonight, but after that should be OK. At lunchtime I phone the restaurant, they can fit me in for a table for two tomorrow. I wait a little and text Tina.“How does dinner at Les Petite Parisians sound? I’ve never been, but it’s supposed to be good. Tomorrow at 8 OK?”“I can pick you up if you’d like or just meet there.” I carry on with my work. I’ve been given a new laptop this week and the thing just keeps playing up. It’s supposed to have my passwords and setting emigrated, but I keep getting logged out of internal sites which didn’t happen with the old one. It’s getting irritating, so I raise an IT ticket.“Guys, this new laptop is really getting annoying. Furthermore, it just keeps logging me out of stuff. Can someone take a look please.” I go to continue my work while I wait, but I’ve been logged out of one of the internal accounting sites. I roll my eyes and log back in. The guy next to me, James, asks about last night whether I hooked up with the cute security guard. As the IT person comes to take a look I move out of his way.“Yeah, look it just keeps logging me out. I’ve saved my passwords, but they should have been migrated across anyway.” I tell him and turn to James. “Nah, she wasn’t there but, her loss. I met this really cute chick though. Real nice, friendly and with a really tight body. But classy you know, really put together? We met at a fucking art show so you know she’s got some style. We’re going out tomorrow again.” He chuckles. “I don’t normally do dates, just hookups and booty calls, but she seems a little different.” He turns back to the IT guy.“How’s it looking? All this logging in and logging out is costing me time and productivity you know” My 'Tina phone' buzzes to tell me a text has just come in. It can only be John. No one else has this number other than him. In fact, I create a contact on the phone, with the number that I now have: John Stevens. At least after the date, I'll have that as a memory. Even though, I'll have to block the number. "One and done" will be the rule for dating John. Sure enough, as he promised Tina...or me....a date:“How does dinner at Les Petite Parisians sound? I’ve never been, but it’s supposed to be good. Tomorrow at 8 OK?”“I can pick you up if you’d like or just meet there.”" Mmmmmm" I purr aloud, wouldn't that be something! Get picked up to go on a date. Holding the car door open for me. Driving together to the restaurant..... But that would tell him where I live, and I need to keep that my secret. Can't have him showing up or worse, beginning some sort of harassment should my secret be revealed. In fact, my secret being revealed would be a disaster. I'm positive no guy wants the stigma of 'I dated a crossdresser'. Yeah, no.... I text him back a half hour later-a girl can appear to be too needy:"Sounds great. I've never been there. My schedule is a bit up in the air, so why don't I meet you there around 8?"***********************I get up late the next day. I've been planning all day on what I want to wear for Tina's first, last and only date. After this, my escapades will be in private or at best, alone. Me and no one else. It takes me all day to get ready! It's a good thing I don't start work for a couple more days, I need all this free time for myself. A long bath, shave E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E for that fully feminine feeling. Sexy silk lingerie. My $400, 34C breast forms filling the bra cups (I do love having nice boobs!), and them I'm ready for make-up! At first, I go super-glam. It's really sexy but, for a date at a French restaurant, probably too much. So, I wipe off an hours worth of work and begin again. Simpler. But very pretty.(as heavy on the eyes. A brighter eyeshadow instead and a lighter lipstick. My hair which was more or less 'up' last time, is now brushed out and falls around my shoulders casually. Easy to keep in place with my fingertips. Hope John likes it? Red and black dress, a flared skirt about 5 inches above the knee. I slide my feet int a pair of 3-inch black stilettos for some added sexy height. For a treat, I do my nails in a dark red as well. Should have thought of that earlier, I eat uptime waiting for them to dry. Blowing on them helps, but it still takes extra time. I start to rush a bit as my well-planned dressing up is now taking longer than I allowed myself. A final spritz of perfume. Load my purse with my essentials for the night: make-up, perfume, tissues, Tina phone, brush. Car keys, Wallet....just in case. But that's underneath everything. I look at myself in the mirror, turning to and fro, checking myself from every angle. Finally, I take a deep breath. My clock on the microwave says 7:30. It's a half hour to get to the restaurant....I'm going to be about 10 minutes late. Just like a girl should be, I smirk. I take the elevator down this time, feeling confident in how I look. I get out at the garage level. Scoot into my car and head out. My heart is pounding. This is just unbelievable. Red fingernails on the steering wheel, pretty girl looking back at me in the mirror..... I get to the restaurant without any delays. 8:11 says the clock over the hostess stand. I look around and try to find John. I’m pleased when Tina had accepted our date. Furthermore, I had been a bit worried that she would just brush me off or ghost me, but it looks good. The rest of my day goes well, although my laptop starts to play up towards the end of the day. I ignore it, I have soccer practice to get to. The next day I’m quite distracted thinking about my date with Tina. I don’t usually let girls get into my head, but somehow she’s managed. There was definitely something about her. I get fed up with my computer again and the IT guy they sent overheard all about it this time. He’s the third different person they’d sent to me. I always seem to get the incompetent new guy. I'm not going to let it spoil my mood though. After work, I head to the gym. I want to look a little pumped just in case I ended the evening shirtless. I do a set that lasts about an hour before I hit the showers. Furthermore, I step out with my towel around my waist and check myself in the mirrors. Furthermore, I’m looking pretty good if I said so myself. Furthermore, I’d focused on my arms and chest, and they were looking good along with my flat, well-defined stomach. Furthermore, I shave off my chest hair, preferring a smooth finish to show of my muscles. Furthermore, I usually go for a clean-shaven look, but I decide to just shape and tidy up the stubble on my face, it seems like a good look for today, a contrast to my smooth body. I had packed clean clothes in my gym bag and get changed into a tight white t-shirt, blue jeans which were a little tight but not too much, black shoes and a sports jacket. Furthermore, I splash on some cologne and headed straight to the restaurant. Furthermore, I’m a little early so I sit in the bar and get a beer to drink while I wait for the table to be ready. The maître’d suggests I wait in the bar until my date arrives. I don’t expect Tina to be on time, but I’m still a little anxious checking my phone and the time just in case she’s going to cancel or stand me up. It’s about 10 past when I see her walk in and look around. I stand at the bar and wave until I catch her eye. She walks over to me. I smile broadly as I get a full view of her. She looks great, the dress clings nicely to highlight her curves, her hair looks great, and her make-up again is amazing. I put my hands on her shoulders gently. “Tina, so great to see you again.” I say and lean in to place a soft kiss on her cheek. I smell her perfume and shampoo. She smells wonderful too. “You look stunning today. That dress looks amazing, and I love your hair down like that.” I say. I beckon the maître’d over, and he shows us to our table. Furthermore, I wait for Tina to sit before taking my own seat.“What would you like to drink.” I ask her as we’re handed our menus. “Wine or a cocktail to get started?”. I point to my beer, I’m ok with this for now. Once Tina has ordered, and we’re alone I lean back in my chair.“You look even better than I remember.” I tell her. “And I don’t want any argument at the end of the meal. I’m paying for everything tonight so go crazy and have whatever you like.”“So, how’s your day been?” I spot a waving hand. A handsome guy, white shirt, blue pants....and it's my attention he wants. I walk across the bar with ease. What's not so easy is the glances, the quick turn of a head towards me. Some looks are discreet, others linger a bit too long. This is it, my first big 'check-out' by strangers. Even a couple of women turn towards me for a quick appraisal. Sort 'seeing what she's wearing' type of glance. Mercifully, the barroom 'catwalk' is a short one and I'm quickly in the area of my date and that tends to tone down everything. I give John a welcoming smile. Oddly, I'm very glad to have someone here for me. What happens next, catches me a bit by surprise. John's hands go lightly upon my shoulders.“Tina, so great to see you again.” he smiles and then. He KISSES ME!! I know I blushed a bit, who wouldn't? What girl wouldn't? I can smell his cologne and I can also feel the gentle strength he possesses with his hand upon. Even in my heels, he looks down at me a bit. Credit him with knowing how to kiss a girl without messing up her make-up too! A skill not every man has in his arsenal." Nice to see you too, John" I beam“You look stunning today. That dress looks amazing, and I love your hair down like that.” he tells me."Oh, thank you?" I reply with smile still remaining as the compliment flow so easily and naturally from him. With a wave the Maître'd, we are shown to our table. The Maître'd does the honors of pulling out my chair for me and another 'thank you' glides from my lips. John sits down opposite me, and we are given our menus.“What would you like to drink. Wine or a cocktail to get started?”."Oh, a glass of Chardonnay would be nice" I say softly to both John and the Maître'd. He nods once, smiles and goes to fulfil my request.“You look even better than I remember.” John says. I grin and say: "I only date men with short memories, that way I always look better than they remember?" I giggle a bit at John's expression of joining the 'men with short memories' club.“And I don’t want any argument at the end of the meal. Furthermore, I’m paying for everything tonight so go crazy and have whatever you like.”" Oh well, thank you. You didn't have to do that....but thank you. That's very nice." I know better than to try to insult him by reaching for my purse at the end of the meal.“So, how’s your day been?” he asks.” Not bad at all, I had an off day today from any work, so I spoiled myself, and slept in late." My wine arrives and that breaks our conversation momentarily. "And what about you? Busy? You said you're in Finance right? That must get hectic and have a lot of pressure?" I take a sip of my wine.....gawd...it's delicious! "MMM, this is really....perfect...." I get settled in a bit. Gentle tug down of my bodice, cross my ankles, and place an errant strand of blonde hair back in place. As the wine arrives we settle into some small talk. Tina asks about my day."Oh, well it's been fine. It can get a bit stressful when things don't go as they're supposed to. Today was a good day because I had something to look forward to this evening." I sip my beer and watch as Tina touches her hair, and shifts a little in her seat." It pays the bills." I tell her. The low candlelight from the table softens her appearance as I look up at her. "A lie in sounds great. You said you're starting a new IT job soon. This is the first job since graduating? That must be exciting." I listen to Tina until the waiter comes to take our order." Are you ready Tina?" I ask her. I order the duck for myself and glass of the Chardonnay to match her." So tell me what else do you like to do Tina? I know you like to sleep in and drink white wine. What else are you into?" I try to get some more information out of her. She seems a little closed off, protective of her personal information, but we're on a date so it's time to probe. John bemoans the fact that his job can be a bit stressful, but does concede that 'it pays the bills". I nod...." Well until we both become wealthy enough that a job becomes a hobby, paying the bills is a worthwhile accomplishment" (I know I could cut down on my credit card bills if I stopped Tina from buying online!)" A lie in sounds great. You said you're starting a new IT job soon. This is the first job since graduating? That must be exciting."" Exciting, yes. Nerve-wracking, another yes. It will be the same no matter where though. There's always the 'first day', new friends to be made, learning the ropes. So exciting to learn and a bit trying as you do want to fit in AND show them that hiring you was a great move!" The waiter comes by and takes our orders. Being 'the lady' I go first. "I'd like the Coquilles St. Jacques, please" And I nod and say please when asked if I'd like another glass of Chardonnay...." With my dinner please" I smile. John orders the duck and a glass of wine as well. As the waiter departs and I take another sip of my wine, John continues with the gentle 'getting to know you' questions. I mean, what did I expect? This is what first dates are for." So tell me what else do you like to do Tina? I know you like to sleep in and drink white wine. What else are you into?"" Oh, I'm pretty boring" I smile. "I like to read, I'm a big history buff, I like crosswords, I like to go for walks. I was even thinking of learning to play golf.... Seems like a sport centered around walking, right?" and a smile crosses my face. "Your football seems a bit strenuous for a girl like me, but it's an interesting sport and safer than rugby, right?" We banter lightly back and forth, I make sure not to mention his work as it seems a bit frustrating for him. Also, I don't want to tell him where I'm working on the chance that he knows someone at Regency Finance. Just my luck, he'd say something and suddenly my life as Tina begins to fall apart. No, its better he thinks I'm a woman, and then after tonight we can go our separate ways. The homelier heads towards us as our waiter sets down a tray next to us and begins serving our meals....."Oh, the scallops smell heavenly" I purr....and to be honest, they really do!! I smile as Tina tells me that outside of work and study she’s pretty boring, reading and walking.“Oh I’m sure the girls would be gentle with you on their team. Well, maybe not that gentle.” I say with a smile. “I play a little golf actually I’m not great at it, but I’d love to take you on a course some time. We can start with the driving range so you learn to hit a ball and then onto a small course. That could be fun, it’s nice to get away from the steel and concrete of the city and out into nature sometimes. Maybe I could join you for a walk some time. We could take a picnic and make a day of it. You definitely don’t sound boring though Tina.” I lean back a little as the food arrives. Tina seems the waiter leaves Tina comments on the smell of her dish. I lean forwards to smell it too.“Mmm they do, actually. I think you made a good choice there. They look and smell amazing. The second best looking thing at the table.” I say with a smile.“So you’re going to take me for a hike and a picnic for our next date right? How’s the weekend for you? Will you have started your job by then? I don’t have any plans for Saturday at the moment, we do have a soccer match on Sunday though so you can’t keep me out too late.” I start eating my duck. It’s nice, flavorful with crispy skin in a nice sauce.“How do the scallops taste?” John assures me that the female footballers would be gentle on me....then changes his mind amusingly“Oh I’m sure the girls would be gentle with you on their team. Well, maybe not that gentle.” he says and I offer a small giggle. "I'm thinking that they'd want to win as much as your team does and having a new, 'worst' player is not going to endear me to them". Then I realise that I have opened another topic for John to latch onto:“I play a little golf actually I’m not great at it, but I’d love to take you on a course some time. We can start with the driving range, so you learn to hit a ball and then onto a small course. That could be fun, it’s nice to get away from the steel and concrete of the city and out into nature sometimes. Maybe I could join you for a walk some time. We could take a picnic and make a day of it. You definitely don’t sound boring though Tina.”" You're kind to say that" I laugh.... I also decide that since this is our first, last, and only date, that agreeing to golf won't impact me at all." Golf sounds fun, we can give that a try. At least the driving range part. We can see if I can even hit a ball before we tie up an entire golf course with my lack of skills. But that might be a fun place to start?" I avoid the idea of the picnic and going for a hike or a long walk. I don't want to agree to too many ideas. A girl doesn't want to be too eager on a first date after all. The food arrives, and our meal begins “Mmm they do, actually. I think you made a good choice there. They look and smell amazing. The second best looking thing at the table.” John comments on my meal and the lovely aroma?" Do you always charm your dates like this" I grin...." I would say the scallops are no better than the 3rd best looking thing at our table". I blush a bit, gee, me giving compliments to a guy! Yeah, I'm in full Tina mode right now....and loving it!“So you’re going to take me for a hike and a picnic for our next date right? How’s the weekend for you? Will you have started your job by then? I don’t have any plans for Saturday at the moment, we do have a soccer match on Sunday though so you can’t keep me out too late.”" We'll see" I say with a flirty smile. No promises for the weekend just yet. Poor John doesn't know that this is the end of our 'romance'. But I do need to keep my cover in place." I would never want to keep you out late". I take a bite of my scallops, and they are delicious!! Furthermore, I may need to come back here as Bruce with a date of my own sometime!" My job starts tomorrow. So today was my last day off which is why I slept in and all that. So, I'm not sure what will be happening this weekend in terms of the job? I may have some training to do? I'm just not sure?" That should start my defense of being unavailable for at least part of the weekend, but I'm sure I'm going to just have to make a date, then break it, in order to have tonight gone smoothly." The scallops are to die for! How's your duck. It smells heavenly!"" This wine is excellent isn't it?" I say as I take a small, lady-like sip. I nod as she describes herself being terrible at soccer. Maybe I can offer to help train her, take her running or just to kick a ball around. I make a note to myself that may be useful. I grin as I see her blush when she turns my compliment back on me. Looking into her eyes, she looks cute when she’s blushing like that, although the make-up helps to mask it a little it can’t hide it completely. I nod as she is demure on the weekend plans claiming that her ob might keep her busy. It’s possible, but I doubt a new job is going to keep her working on the weekend.“So a hike sounds perfect then, to break up the training and pressures of a new job. Or if you’d like to come and watch a soccer game on Sunday you’d be welcome, and we can do something after, maybe hit the driving range for a swing.”“Mmm the duck is great. Would you like to try some?” I ask, getting some on my fork to offer her.“The wine is nice, a good choice Tina. The second-best choice you made, after agreeing to come on a date that is.” I chuckle a little enjoying her reaction. She seems to be relaxed and almost glowing as we continue our meals. I call the waiter over to refresh our drinks. I’ve got to drive home, so I can’t have much more, but one more glass is probably OK. The meal seems to be going well, the wine is nice, the food is excellent. It feels like a good date to me. I just need to understand her reluctance to set up another date. I’m persistent though, so I’m sure I’ll find a way through. John lets slide the soccer game with the ladies, idea and instead moves towards doing something together this weekend, as I had feared, but had anticipated.“So a hike sounds perfect then, to break up the training and pressures of a new job. Or if you’d like to come and watch a soccer game on Sunday you’d be welcome, and we can do something after, maybe hit the driving range for a swing.” I move in a positive direction this time: "Sure sounds like fun. And yeah, maybe we can go to the driving range, and you can show me which end of the club to hold?" I smile and let out a little chuckle at my own ineptitude with the new sporting interest. As if I'd ever go to a golf course and prance around in one those teeny little golf ensembles the ladies wear?“Mmm the duck is great. Would you like to try some?” John asks and put a small piece on the end of his fork for me to sample. Seem like no way out of this one either. I hold my hair back with one hand and take the proffered bite."Oh, that IS good..... Mmmmmm love that sauce..... Here, try a bite of scallop!" Then I find a nice piece of one of the scallops and return the favor. Yeah, this is WAY more romantic than I what it to be, but it is fulfilling my bucket list of being someone's female date. I actually tingle a bit inside as we sample each other's dinners.“The wine is nice, a good choice Tina. The second-best choice you made, after agreeing to come on a date that is.”" You're a tease" I say playfully and add a smile so that John gets all the signals that it's me, who's teasing now. The meal proceeds along, John orders us another glass of wine each, both of us agreeing that this will be the last one for tonight. I can't afford an accident or a ticket. I have no license under Tina's name nor any ID except in my wallet and that says "Bruce Taylor". Furthermore, I bear little to no resemblance of my male self at all right now. That would be an issue. Still the wine is delicious, the food excellent, and despite being careful of what I say or do, I'm enjoying myself. I begin to gauge whether the wine will sit fine until I get home, or if I'm going to have to do something I've never done: Go to the Ladies Room. Right now, my self-control is on high. John doesn't mention his work and that allows me to keep my new job in the dark as well. Instead, we focus on soccer, reading, our idea of me learning to play golf. I can feel his eyes on me quite a bit during dinner. I suppose this is something that happens to women. Furthermore, I try not to stare at him and takes looks around the restaurant. Furthermore, I especially like how they've woven in arches as part of the decor.... I complete my thought on that point, speaking to John: ".....it gives the room the feeling of spaciousness, doesn't it?" I laugh at her comment about the driving range, but it does seem like she’s agreeing.“Great, it’s a date then. Let me know whether we’re going for Saturday or Sunday after my game once you know your work schedule.” I try the offered scallops. “Yeah you’re right they taste as good as they look.” I say with a quick wink. We eat our meals with easy small talk. I try to keep my eyes on Tina’s face, but I can’t help checking her out from time to time. She doesn’t notice, or doesn’t mind, although I catch her doing to same to me as we finish our meals. I sit back as Tina is looking around in the room and comments on the architecture.“Oh yes, you’re right. The place is nice. The ambience, the food, the space, it feels quite authentic. A little romantic slice of Paris right here.” I let the waiters clear the plates.“So the important question now is…. Dessert?” I smile at Tina. “I know I’ve had my eye on something sweet and tasty all night, but I suppose I could settle for a Chou bun. Or if you’d like we could take a little walk and get some fresh air together.” And, just like that, John slips in the date:“Great, it’s a date then. Let me know whether we’re going for Saturday or Sunday after my game once you know your work schedule.”" Ok" I smile. That date will definitely not occur but for now, it's easier to agree than it is to try to back out and have to make up excuses. Besides, a simple 'yes' is a much nicer thing to say to someone who is treating me to a fabulous dinner! We sample each other's meals, have some quiet small talk. I find it rather easy to embrace Tina and my well-practiced mannerisms along with general knowledge of women and what they are likely to say, keeps things moving peacefully and comfortably. My comment on the architecture brings a ready agreement from John as he notes the uniqueness of it all too:“Oh yes, you’re right. The place is nice. The ambience, the food, the space, it feels quite authentic. A little romantic slice of Paris right here.” Our dinner is finished. Like a good girl, I don't finish all my meal. Partially because I think it looks better NOT to have a giant appetite and partially because I truly am full from the rich cuisine. John brings up the next 'dinner topic':“So, the important question now is…. Dessert?” and he returns my smile with one of his own. “I know I’ve had my eye on something sweet and tasty all night, but I suppose I could settle for a Chou bun. Or if you’d like we could take a little walk and get some fresh air together.” Uh oh....a walk....in heels? I know I could do that part, but a walk might also lead to a more romantic moment or two? I suppose I could play the 'conservative girl'? 'Not on the first date' or something like that? Also, I don't really want dessert....so:"Well I'm really a bit full from my dinner, but I could go for a nice cup of coffee?" I smile. "Why don't you get something sweet like your Chou bun, and I'll get something dark and mysterious, like my coffee?" I purposely let the idea of a walk slide by. But I think I'm going to be in the running for a good-night kiss at some point. I'll have to be ready. A quick peck on the cheek and a promise to see him later, should be about it. “Perfect” I say, “Coffee and dessert. I’ll join you with a coffee I think. Are you sure I can’t tempt you with some petite fours, or something?” When the waiter comes back over I order coffees and the Chou buns for myself. As we wait I asked Tina. “So you obviously keep yourself fit, you look in great shape. I’m just wondering why you think you’d be the worst on the ladies' soccer team. I know they’re always crying out for new members. If you’re just not into it that’s fine, but I’m sure they’d be happy to have you, a young fit lady they could train up.” As the dessert arrives I start to eat. I take my coffee straight-up, black so it needs.a few minutes to cool a little to be drinkable.“Are you going to want anything else> Another drink or anything?” I ask her and then call the waiter over to get the bill ready for me. I chat comfortably with Tina, not wanting the evening to end. “You’re starting work tomorrow so I guess I can’t persuade you to stay out late or come on somewhere else with me tight? Maybe after the driving range on the weekend though. There's no particular dress code for the driving range but he way, just wear something comfortable that you can move in, and flat shoes.” I smile at her. “We’ll get you hitting that ball in no time.” I turn my attention to my coffee now and pay the bill, thanking the waiter and adding on a nice tip. The coffee is hot and strong, how I like it. I watch Tina as she drinks and I know I’m not getting into her panties today, but I’m not letting her get away without a kiss at least. John agrees to coffee and dessert, and I breathe a slight sigh of relief. I need to limit 'alone time' with him as much as possible, for probably another hour. I don't need to be walking around in secluded areas that are 'romantic'. I'm not that type of girl. I'm not even a girl! We chat away pleasantly though. He'll drop and innuendo here and there about me being 'pretty' or 'sweet' or some other cute compliment. It's really rather nice to know that I look like a woman, like Tina, and he's not ill at ease with me.“So you obviously keep yourself fit, you look in great shape. I’m just wondering why you think you’d be the worst on the lady's soccer team. I know they’re always crying out for new members. If you’re just not into it that’s fine, but I’m sure they’d be happy to have you, a young fit lady they could train up.”" Thanks. I mean I do my walking, a little running. But as for soccer skills? I have none. I wasn't far off saying I'd be most valuable to them by giving them water." I laugh. My laugh is light but also genuine. It's Tina's laugh. The dessert is brought to us by our waiter, along with our coffees. John and I both sit while the hot, dark brown cup of liquid slowly cools down....“Are you going to want anything else? Another drink or anything?”" No, thank you, this will be just perfect" I reply, taking a small sip of coffee. Still quite hot, too. I ask about the dessert and John assures me that like everything else with tonight's meal, it's perfect. I grin at his satisfaction. We begin to look towards tomorrow and the rest of our week.“You’re starting work tomorrow so I guess I can’t persuade you to stay out late or come on somewhere else with me right? Maybe after the driving range on the weekend though. There's no particular dress code for the driving range but he way, just wear something comfortable that you can move in, and flat shoes.” I smile at her. “We’ll get you hitting that ball in no time.” I nod...." Sweatpants and sneakers?" I say in confirmation....then playfully add...." And a top of course" I'll let John's imagination fill in the rest, as all men would likely do." Well if this coffee is any indication of how they take extra time to do things right, I think I'll be back here as well" I grin. Then I begin gauging, time left here, time to get home, two glasses of wine and a coffee....do I need to go to the ladies room?? I think I can skip that successfully, but if I ever do this again, I need to factor that in as well. Men might be easy to fool, women will not be. He gazes at me a bit and I sip my coffee. I plot my escape. Starting work tomorrow is the absolute truth and that plays into me leaving quietly. I have my own car. That's good. But, there is going to be a good-night kiss. A man spends all this money on dinner, a kiss is almost obligatory. Do women go the ladies room to freshen up for something like that?? Fine points. I need to work on the fine points. I grin at her comment about dressing for the driving range. "Oh, don't feel you have to wear a top on my account." I say with a smile. Tina comments on the coffee as she sips hers." Yes it's nice here isn't it." I agree. "I'd love to bring you back here some time if you'd accompany me." I notice that the coffees are done, I've paid, and the evening must draw to an end. I can't think of a way to extend our time together but never mind, there will always be next time." I'm just going to use the restroom." I say "and then I'll be ready. Would you let me walk you to your car?" I'm hoping she isn't going to run out while I'm in the bathroom, but I think she's had a nice date as well so I doubt she will. She'll probably use the restroom as well anyway, girls always seem to need to go, I think to myself. I stand and excuse myself and go to find the restrooms. A most enjoyable evening concludes. The bill has been settled, the coffee is gone. It just us, wrapping things up. Of course, John believes more dates are coming while I know that this is it. A few more minutes, and it will all be ended." I'm just going to use the restroom." he says as he arises, "and then I'll be ready. Would you let me walk you to your car?"" Sure, that would be nice" I smile. John takes off to the far reaches of the restaurant. I can wait until I get home. No sense testing fate in the ladies room. Instead, I open my purse and find my compact and open it up to see if I'm still presentable? I'm pleased to find that the walk in and the dinner we had did nothing to ruin my hair. I glance around. No one is nearby in any of the tables..... My lipstick need a touch up after dinner... So, when in Rome.... I open up my tube of lipstick from my purse and using the small mirror, I skillfully add a touch more lipstick to make my lips 'pop' a bit once again. A quick blot with a tissue, recap the tube of lipstick, and put that, the compact and the used tissue, all back in my purse. All before John return. I'm proud of myself for accomplishing that so easily! No, a 'freshened up' girl awaits the return of her date. I finish up in the bathroom and rub a little water over my mouth to make sure I don't have any duck grease left there. I check myself in the mirror to make sure my hair is OK, and my clothes are straight and give myself a smile before I turn and go to find Tina." Are you ready?" I ask and take her chair to help her up. I thank the waiter and the maître'd as we walk out into the cool evening air. "Where did you park?" I ask her. The evening air is cool, especially after being in the warm restaurant. "Would like my jacket while we walk there, I don't want you getting cold." I take her hand as we walk the short distance to her car. I can feel her pulling a little for support as she walks in her heels. When we reached her car we stop." I had a really nice time tonight Tina. You're a special Lady." I smile and brush my hand over her shoulder. "I hope you had a nice time too, and I wasn't too much of a bore." I smile and move my hand towards her face. I brush a little hair away and let my hand brush her cheek, resting on the side of her head as I lean in to take the kiss I've waited all evening for. As we kiss, my fingers brush down the side of her neck, feeling two small lumps, beauty spots on the back of her neck. John returns, looking as handsome as ever. It makes me wonder why some girl or girls, haven't scooped him up yet. Intelligent, caring, good-looking....seems like the entire package? In fact if I was really a girl, I'd latch onto him in a second and our next date would be tomorrow! However...." Are you ready?" he asks and helps my up from my chair. I float up, fully intending to enjoy the last few minutes of my date, as Tina. The air is cool as we walk across the parking lot. John offers me his jacket and I very politely, decline. "I'll be in the car in a minute, but thank you". His hand slips into mine and I turn to him and smile. A silent 'thank you' for doing that. My heart is pounding. I know.... I KNOW, we are going to kiss. At my car, I unlock it and turn to John"I had a really nice time tonight Tina. You're a special Lady."" I had a good time too. Thank you so much for asking me and of course, thank you for dinner. It was delicious". His hand goes over my shoulder and pushes back my hair. My face, my lips are all open to him now. His face moves to mine, his hand gently holds me by the neck. We lean into each other.... O-M-G!!!! I'm kissing him, I'm kissing a man! The kiss is simple, but elegant. My heart is pounding. This is unbelievable! Tina! I'm actually Tina for this moment. In the arms of a man. We break the kiss mutually." Thank you, John.....for a wonderful evening....." I open the car door and float into the seat. I accentuate everything to be the most feminine in movements as possible. All those hours and hours of learning and practicing. I nail it!" I'll be in touch" I smile and start the car. We exchange waves goodbye, and I head back to my apartment. Parking in a corner spot and ensuring no one else is here. I make my way to the elevator and up to my floor. I pour myself a drink and replay the entire evening. Knowing I have to report to my new job tomorrow, I take especial care to clean up very, very well. Not a trace of make-up remains. The dress is hung up with care and the wig brushed out. I set the alarm and fall asleep. No thoughts of work enter my mind. Just my highly successful, first ever 'date as a woman' is all I can think about. Tina returns the kiss. For a long moment we stand by her car, our mouths pressed together, lips parted, tasting each other. I feel her tongue in my mouth, her lips pressed firmly to mine, my hand on her head, holing her, savoring the feel and taste of her. She smells wonderful, she tastes wonderful and she feels wonderful. I think about the taste and feel of the rest of her body, her breasts and her pussy until the kiss ends and we part. Ending the kiss is a struggle, I want more of her, but I know I have to bide my time. Tina promises to let me know about the weekend as we part. I wait as she drives away and then go to find my own car. The kiss has a strong reaction to me as I feel my hardness strain against my trousers. I try to clear my head and drive home, but I know I'll jerk off thinking of Tina once I'm home. The next morning I'm out for an early run before work and then into the shower to get ready for another day at work. The morning passes as normal. I wonder how Tina is getting on with her new job and think about messaging her but, she'll probably be in some HR thing or busy, so I figure I'll leave it until the evening. I have my own meetings to deal with this morning. By lunchtime my computer is playing up again. I complain to my desk mate again as I message IT to get someone over to fix it." Honestly, I don't know why they can't fucking fix it. The old one never had this many problems. I think I just keep getting sent the idiot new guys who couldn't fix an unplugged cable." I try to calm myself, I know I'm likely to lose my temper with whoever they send over, but I don't want to go too hard on them, unless it's that guy they sent over last time. While I'm waiting I try and get on with some work, but the constant logging out is getting really frustrating. -Story on hiatus-

Change of Life (HoneyBear and debutante)|rating:3.0

Hogwarts_ More Than Magical (Rules)

There are 18 abilities, and each ability has a certain number of specialties. For example, Agility is an ability, while Fly is a specialty. Each ability starts at two and can be raised up to 7, though I consider it rare for any student to possess any ability higher than 4. Rank 2 Average - Default ability score. Rank 3 Talented - A cut above the norm, you have enough skill to be considered dangerous. Rank 4 Trained - You have extensively trained in the ability, combining extensive training with natural talents. Rank 5 Accomplished - Your natural talent places you above the common man. Rank 6 Master - You are considered the among best in the world at what you do. Rank 7 Paragon - The very limit of human potential, a legend for people to talk about for ages to come. Agility - Measures dexterity, nimbleness, and flexibility*Acrobatics: Perform flips, tumbles, balance, somersaults, or other acrobatic maneuvers*Balance: Act normally on uneven footing or avoid falling*Fly: Zip around on a broomstick Athletics - Physical fitness, coordination, training, raw muscle*Climb: Able to move up or down 1 yard per degree of success up to movement rate without consequence*Jump: Aids in tests that require one to jump*Run: Aids in long distance runs, or increasing movement rate*Strength: Aids in tests where physical strength is required*Throw: Used for objects not designed to be thrown Awareness - A measure of how accurate your senses and perception are and how quickly you respond to changes in your environment*Empathy: Determine true intentions*Notice: Perception, the ability to note small details Cunning - Encapsulates intelligence, intellect, and the application of collected knowledge*Craft: The ability to take theoretical knowledge into a practical application and make something*Decipher: To determine true meaning of coded messages or messages in another language*Logic: Figure out puzzles of logic or webs of intrigue*Memory: Recall useful information when the time is needed*Strategy: Ability to captain a quidditch team or do well in strategy and warfare Deception - The ability to lie or deceive*Act: Pretending to be someone other than you really are*Bluff: Lying or hiding true intentions*Cheat: Manipulate chance into your advantage*Disguise: Concealing ones identity visually Endurance - a measure of your physical well-being, health and hardiness*Fortitude: A chance to resist spells*Resilience: Better able to resist disease and poison*Stamina: Better chance to recover from injuries and wounds Fighting - Ability fight unarmed or with hand held weapons*(Axe, Blunt, Fencing, Long blades, Short blade, Unarmed, Wands)Magical Expertise - Ability to cast spells*(Charms, Curses, Conjuration, Transfiguration)Magical Projection - Raw magical power*(Charms, Curses, Conjuration, Transfiguration)Marksmanship - Ability to cast spells from afar and archery*(Ray, Bows, Crossbows, Guns)Persuasion - Ability to manipulate emotions and beliefs in others*Bargain, Charm, Convince, Incite, Intimidate, Seduce, Taunt Reflexes - ability to react quickly*Dodge: Use Reflexes test to replace Combat Defense*Quickness: Reflexes and reactions are even quicker than normal Status - You're standing in the school, the authority you have over others*Breeding: Knowing the nuances of civilized society*Bureaucracy: With the application of power, one has to deal with bureaucracy, fortunately, you are good at it*Reputation: You are able to make yourself seem and appear more important than your actual position warrants*Rumor: Whether spreading or learning, you are at the center of gossip Stealth - The ability to move about unseen or unheard*Blend in: You can make yourself seem part of the background, unimportant and unnoticed*Open Lock: From a simple lock, to a complex safe, you know how to open things people don't want open*Sneak: You are adept in moving in the shadows, unseen and unheard*Sleight of Hand: You are skilled at using your hands to misdirect, or palming things unseen Will - Your mental fortitude*Coordinate: You stand a better chance in aiding others with their test outcome*Discipline: The iron will to resist magical compulsions*Dedication: Remaining true to your beliefs in spite of pressure In addition to the 15 abilities above, there are three categories for classes, which the player assigns based on character skill. The "other" classes category can not be ranked higher than "minors", and "minors" can not be ranked higher than "majors." Classes:Majors (Pick 2 Best)Minors (Pick Any Other 3)Others (Pick 4 Worst)The classes are:*History of Magic*Astronomy*Muggle Studies*Care of Magical Creatures*Ancient Runes*Arithmancy*Potions*Divination*Herbology Each student has 20 points to spend on abilities (including classes) and 8 points to spend on specialties. If making a secondary or tertiary character, those characters start with 17 points on abilities and 6 points on specialties. All abilities start at 2. Raising from a 2 to 3 costs 1 point. Increasing from 3-4, 4-5, 5-6, or 6–7 costs 3 points. All specialties start at 0, and cost 1 point to buy. Whenever you test with an ability, roll a number of D6s equal to the ability and add them up. Specialties let you roll extra D6s, but you only keep a number equal to the ability. For example, a character with Agility 3, Fly 1 would roll 4 D6, but only add the three highest. Being heroes of the story, each and every character has a Destiny, the ability to shape events and outcomes. This is represented by Destiny Points. Every character has them. Destiny points can be used in one of three ways to affect the game, 1) Spend 2) Burn, and three 3) Invest. SpendingYou can spend a point to have affect some small outcome. Points spent this way are recovered when the next chapter of the story is available. The following is an example of spending a Destiny Point.*Gain +1B die for a roll; this die can exceed the normal limits on bonus dice*Convert one bonus die to a test die*Remove -1D penalty*Bestow a -1D penalty on an opponent*Take an extra lesser action*Improve or worse a character’s social disposition by 1 step (for Social Combat)*Negate another character's spent destiny point (but not Burnt)*Activate or Ignore an environmental quality*Add minor story telling detail in characters favor, such a small clue, shoddy security system, a pistol full on armor piercing roundsBurningBurning a Destiny Point allows a character to effect a scheme in a major way. Burning a Destiny Point removes that Destiny Point from the character pool, not to be regained at the end of the Chapter. Only by spending XP, or as a GM reward, can the point be reclaimed. The following are examples of what a character can do by burning a Destiny Point.*Convert all bonus dice into test dice*Add +5 to test result*Succeed one test as if you rolled the Difficulty exactly*Remove all Damage from injuries (but not Wounds)*When defeated, you decide the consequences of your defeat*Transform another character's successful test into a failed test*Automatically compel another character in an intrigue*Remove the penalties for a Drawback for one chapter*Negate the effects of another character's burned Destiny Point*Avoid certain death*Add a significant detail to a scene that moves the story along in your favor. InvestingCharacters can invest their Destiny Point in a Quality. Qualities are like Feats, or special abilities, bonuses for the character to give them an edge in the game. Qualities do not need to be permanent. At the end of the Chapter, a character can turn the Quality back in for the Destiny Point back. Qualities are more defined in the next post. All Students begin with 2 Destiny Points. Connections*: Choose a location (House), and gain +1D on all Status tests about news and rumors for that location. Dexterous: Prerequisite - Agility 3. Reroll 1's on Agility tests. Eidetic Memory: Prerequisite - Cunning 2 (Memory 1B). Memory Bonus dice are now Test dice, and you receive a +3 to Memory rolls Evaluation: Prerequisite - Awareness 3. Test Cunning to gain an intuitive insight on an unknown object or piece of equipment. Expertise*: Gain +1D with one Specialty Face in the Crowd: Prerequisite Stealth 3 (Blend In 1B). Blend in is a free action, also add Cunning Ranks as a bonus to Stealth (Blend in) tests. Furtive: Prerequisite Stealth 3 (Sneak 1B). Reroll 1's, and add Agility ranks to all Sneak tests. Gifted Athlete*: Prerequisite Athletics 3. Reroll 1's on Athletics tests. Gifted Teacher: Prerequisite Majors 4 Persuasion 3. Using Persuasion Test, grant bonus test dice for a Majors/Minors/Others test to "students", equal to 1D per success. Students may save these bonus dice to use in the future, making a Challenging (9) Cunning (Memory) test to recall dice. Once spent, the bonus dice are gone. This ability may also be used to impart knowledge of Magical Expertise, with each success granting +1b. Hardy: Prerequisite Endurance 3 (Stamina 1B). Penalties from injuries and wounds are reduced by 1. Keen Senses: Prerequisite Awareness 3. Reroll 1's for all Awareness tests, and add Cunning rank to Awareness tests. Sinister: Gain +2 to Combat Defense or Intrigue Defense for the first round. Talented*: Choose an Ability, gain +1 for all tests with that Ability Well Studied*: Choose a specialty for Major, Minor or Other classes. You receive +5 to that specialty. Fate Qualities Animal Cohort: Prerequisite Care of Magical Creatures 3. You gain the use of a loyal animal. If it is fighting by your side you gain +3 to CD as it distracts your opponent. You do not have to make Care of Magical Creatures rolls to control your animal. Cadre: Prerequisite Persuasion 4, Status 3. You gain a group of ten students that are unwavering loyal to you. They will automatically rally to you at the start of each skirmish until killed or betrayed. If destroyed, the character looses this Quality and the Destiny Point invested in it. Cohort: Prerequisite Status 3. Create another character using character generation (and 14 points), save Status must be at least -1 to yours. This character is your loyal follower and follows your commands to the best of their ability. If the cohort dies, you lose this Quality and the Destiny Point invested in it. When your Cohort is by your side and able o help, increase Combat and Intrigue Defense by 2. Destiny: You may choose the outcome of being defeated. Once you do, this Quality is lost and the Destiny Point is considered spent Lucky: Once per in game week OR once per chapter, whichever comes first, reroll one test, take the best result. Night Eyes: No penalties for low light conditions. Parseltongue: You may speak to and understand serpents. Pious: Prerequisite Will 3 (Dedication 1B). Twice per chapter, you may pray to your deity to gain +1D. Martial Qualities Accurate: Prerequisite Agility 3. +1D against opponents with cover. Acrobatic Defense: Prerequisite Agility 3 (Acrobatics 1B). Lesser action to add Acrobatics to Combat Defense. Danger Sense: Prerequisite Awareness 3. Reroll 1's for initiative tests, deny surprising opponent +1D to attack you. Fast: +1 yard to Movement rate, Sprint is 5x movement rate instead of 4x. Tough: Prerequisite Resilience 1B. Add Resilience rank to Health. Unarmed Combat I: Prerequisite Fighting 3. Unarmed attacks deal base damage 1 higher than listed. Unarmed Combat II: Prerequisite Unarmed Combat I, Fighting 3 (Unarmed 2B). You can add Athletics ranks as bonus to all Unarmed tests. Unarmed Combat III: Prerequisite Unarmed Combat II, Fighting 4 (Unarmed 3B). If you have 3 degrees of success against an opponent, instead of damage you can opt to stun instead. Compare test result against opponents Endurance Rank x4. If greater, target is stunned, and can only perform Recover action until stunned. Social Qualities Adept Negotiator: Prerequisite Deception 3. No penalty from starting disposition as long as your disposition is unknown by the other party. Authority: Reduce disposition penalties to Persuasion by 2. Charismatic*: Prerequisite Persuasion 3. Choose a Persuasion Specialty, gain +2 bonuses to all tests with that Specialty. Compelling*: Prerequisite Charismatic. Gain +1 to Influence with Charismatic Specialty in Social Combat. Dutiful: Prerequisite Will 3. Opponents get -1D to try to influence you in Social Combat when using Convince, Intimidate, or Seduce. Friends in High Places: +1B to all Persuasion tests with characters of Status 4 or greater. Friends in Low Places: +1B to all Persuasion tests with characters of Status 2. Respected: Prerequisite Reputation 2B. Opponents get -1D to try to influence you in Social Combat when using Incite, Intimidate, and Taunt. Stubborn: Prerequisite Will 3 (Dedication 1B). Increase your Composure by your Dedication rank. Treacherous: Add Cunning rank to all Deception tests. Magic QualitiesAnimagus: Requires Magical Expertise 3, Transfiguration 1B. Choose one animal. You may transform into that form and back out at will. This choice may never be changed. Animagus, Improved: Requires Magical Expertise 3, Transfiguration 2B, Animals Quality. In your chosen form you receive +1 to two physical abilities and other forms become available if chosen at character creation. Death Eater: -5 to the DC of Unforgivable Curses and the Dark Mark. Determined Caster: When casting without a wand OR without speaking, you receive +1B. If doing both, you receive +2B. Dumbledore's Army: -5 to the DC of Expect Patrons and Protégé. Favored Spell: Choose any spell you have cast successfully. The DC to cast that spell in the future is lowered by 5. Form Integrity:+3 Passive Resistance against Transfiguration spells and +5 vs lycanthropyGift of the Dark Lord: Voldemort has, intentionally or otherwise, altered you. Gain 3 points for abilities and the ability to speak parseltongue. This counts as two qualities. Legilimens: Requires Magical Expertise 4, Will 3. You may attempt to "read" the mind/emotions of another character. An effects roll must be made to do so. Possessing this quality also grants a +3 bonuses to passive resistance against Regimens. Magic Resistance: Fortitude 1B, Discipline 1B. You have trained your body to fight unwanted magic. Add your Fortitude to Health and Discipline to Composure against spell damage. Metamorphagus: You may change aspects of your appearance at will. You receive a +5 to Deception (Act) checks to impersonate another. The Sight: Requires Awareness 4, Will 3, Magical Projection 3. You have the ability to see small glimpses of the future. Anyone can make predictions. The gift is in recognizing which are true. Addiction (minor): When faced with a troubling situation, you must make a Formidable (12) Will test or turn to your addiction. You suffer -1 to all tests. After one hour you may make a Challenging (9) Endurance test to recover from this penalty. If your addiction is not available within an hour of failing the test, you go into minor withdrawal and suffer a -2 penalties till you have had your "fix". You also must make a Hard (15) Will test to resist your addiction choice during this time. Always a Hero: Opponents receive +1D when using Deception (Bluff) regarding an ally in danger. DC 12 Will save to resist going back in to save someone. In addition, receive a +1D bonus to Will (Courage) when risking your neck to save someone. Big and Slow: Take -1D on all Endurance (Stamina) tests, -1 to Reflexes rolls and -1 movement speed. Coward: Requires Will 3 or lower, no more than 1 in Dedication. When engaged in combat, take -1D on all tests. Each round you may try as a Free Action to make a Formidable (12) Will test. Success removes the 1D penalty, and grants you a +1B on all tests till combat ends. Cruel Insanity: -2D for all Awareness Empathy tests. Also starting disposition is 1 step worse for people that recognize you character having this drawback. Dark Secret: You have some dark secret in your past that you will do anything to protect. You must engage in Social Combat when confronted with your past. Starting disposition is -1 steps then would be normal. If you lose, then you exchange this Drawback for Outcast. Disturbing Habit: When recognized, you gain a +1D on all Persuasion (Intimidate) tests, otherwise, suffer a -1D to all other Persuasion tests. Fear: You have a phobia. When in the presence of that phobia, you suffer a -1D to all tests. Each round you may make as a Free Action a Formidable (12) Will test. Success removes the penalty for the remainder of this encounter only. Flaw*: Pick one Ability and have a -1D penalty when testing that Ability. This Drawback maybe taken multiple times, with a different ability taken each time. Forgetful: Whenever testing Cunning, you must reroll all 6's and take the second roll. Haughty: -1D on all Awareness tests involving Empathy. Also, your starting disposition with anyone below your Status is at least Dislike. Ignoble: -1D on all Persuasion and Status tests. Jealousy: Choose another character or NPC in the campaign that you are obsessed with outdoing at every turn. Any time a chance to outshine this target, you must attempt to do so. Failing results in a -1D penalty to Will for the rest of the day. Illness: Each day, make a Challenging (9) Endurance test. Failure means you suffer as if you have an Injury. If you cannot suffer any more injuries, you must take a Wound. If you cannot take another Wound, then you die. Impaired Sense: Choose Blindness or Deafness as your impaired sense. You automatically fail all Awareness tests that solely rely on that sense. Also, Movement is reduced by -1 yard (min 1 yard.). Inept: Whenever you roll for Agility, you must reroll 6's and take the second roll, even if it is worse. Insubordinate: Suffer -1D to all Persuasion tests with those with a higher Status then you. Also, if you lose a Social Combat with a person whose Status is higher, make a Formidable (12) Will check, or initiate regular combat with the person. Students losing to teachers may instead yell, scream, insult, etc. Lascivious: During Social Combat, if your first Persuasion test does not use Seduction, you take a -2 to Intrigue Defense till the end of the scene. You also suffer a -1D to all Persuasion (Charm) tests. Marked: You bare some visible physical defect. When testing Persuasion, reroll all 6's, and take the second roll. Maimed: You have lost a limb. If the limb is a leg, half your movement rate (min 1 yard) and take -1D on all Athletic tests. If a hand, -2D on any test requiring two hands, and cannot use weapons that require two hands. Mute: -2D for all Social Combat. However, your opponents take a -2D to determine what your disposition is. Naive: You take a -3 penalties to Intrigue Defense against Deception tests. Nemesis: Choose one person or group of people that are out to get you. Outcast: You take a -2D on all Status checks and -1D on Persuasion. Poor Health: Reduce Endurance tests to remove injuries or wounds by 3. Reviled: When engaged in Social Combat, your opponent disposition is one step worse than normal. Also, take a -1D to all Status checks. Sickly: Take -1D on Endurance tests to resist hazards and ailments. Sleep Deprived: You spend all night out doing things, and have trouble staying awake in class. -1 to all Majors, Minors, and Others rolls. Squib: You have no magic. Reduce Magic to 0, but receive 1B to Fortitude and Discipline. You may also raise any one ability by 1. Supreme Arrogance: Requires Status 3 or higher. You take a penalty to all Awareness tests equal to your Status rank. Threatening: During Social Combat, if your first Persuasion test does not use Intimidate, you take a -2 to Intrigue Defense till the end of the Scene. Also, you take a -1D for all Persuasion (Charm) or (Seduce) tests. Thin Skinned: Opponents get +1D to try to influence you in Social Combat when using Incite, Intimidate, and Taunt. Visions of Pain: DC 12 or unable to act at all, DC 15 or suffer -1D to all actions until you have had time to gather yourself. May occasionally learn something of value. Vulnerability: Choose Mind or Body. Your passive resistance is lowered by 5 against those types of spells. While there are some great sites for wand customization and flavor, I wanted to add some mechanics to allow for at least one more option. This is optional. Light: Your wand is small and lightweight, even for wands. +2 initiative when drawing your wand, +1 to hit (marksmanship or fighting), -1 damage Standard: Your wand is of expected length and thickness. This is the default trait. No bonuses or penalties. Unwieldy: Your wand is large and heavy, but holds considerable power. -2 to initiative and -1 to rays, +1 damage. Violent: Your wand enjoys causing pain. -1 to Charms and Transfiguration, +1 to Curses and blasts of energy. Warped: Your wand has knots in it that interfere with casting, and builds up magical energy. -1 to all casting rolls, 1 in 6 chance to add +2 to damage. Normal Combat Roll to hit (Fighting/Marksmanship). Every 5 by which the CD is surpassed adds a success. Base Damage per Success= Equal to Athletics for larger, one-handed weapons (swords), Athletics -1 OR Agility-2 for light weapons (daggers) Athletics-2 for unarmed. Large, two-handed weapons do Athletics+1Magic Combat Choose Mind or Body Choose Scroll to cast (Magical Expertise)Roll to hit against Combat Defense (use Fighting/Marksmanship takes a -3 in hand to hand). Every 5 by which the CD is surpassed adds a success. Base Damage per Success (based off DC) = DC 1: MP-3, DC 5: MP-2, DC 10: MP-1, DC 15: MP (Minimum total damage is 1)Add 1 to base damage for every 5 by which the DC is exceeded after 15Damage is subtracted from Composure or Health. Derived Stats Intrigue Defense=Cunning + Status Used as your defense in Social Combat. Composure= 3x Will Basically your health against Mind spells and Social Combat, when reduced to 0, you lose the social combat. Combat Defense=Agility + Athletics How difficult you are to be hit in combat. Health= 3x Endurance. Your HP for combat, once you are reduced to 0, you lose the combat. Passive Resistance (against spells)=Endurancex4 + Fortitude OR Willx4 + Discipline, depending on whether the spell is physical or mental Movement= 4 yards + (Run/2)Sprint= Movement x4Injuries and Wounds Taking an injury reduces damage taken from an attack by an amount equal to your Endurance. Each injury confers a -1 penalty on all rolls until healed. A character may have a number of injuries equal to Endurance. Taking a wound reduces all damage taken from a single attack. Each wound confers a -1D penalty on all rolls until healed. A character may have a number of wounds equal to Endurance. The same may be done with damage from Mind attacks, though Will is substituted for rules above instead of Endurance. First possession of the Baffle determined randomly. Team Captaining possession chooses which Chaser attempts to score first. At the beginning of each round, budget targets are announced (1 per team). Chaserhas to spend 1 full round getting in position, then rolls Agility/Thrown vs the Keeper's AGI+ATH roll/2. The Chaser without the Baffle may take a budget for his or her teammate, if necessary. Beaterschoose "Attack", "Defend", or "Hold"If "Attack," then the budget target on his team must dodge the budget without help, but the Beater may then direct the Budget at any player on the field by rolling Athletics/Bludgeoning-3. That number becomes the DC for dodging the budget (explained later). If "Defend," then the random budget on the Beater's team is deflected, and the Beater may then direct the Budget at any player on the field by rolling Athletics/Bludgeoning-6. That number becomes the DC for dodging the budget (explained later). If "Hold," then the Beater automatically deflects the targeted Budget. If both Beaters choose Hold, nothing happens, and they are skipped. Seekersbegin looking for the Snitch immediately. The DC begins at 21 and goes down by 3 every time a goal is scored. Once the seeker "sees" the snitch, he may begin chasing it. AGI+fly determines racing speed. The Snitch has an AGI of 4 at Hogwarts. The first player to outrace the snitch three times gets a chance to catch it by succeeding on an AGI+ACR roll DC 12. If the roll fails the seeker must "start over" with the awareness roll no longer necessary. Once a seeker spends one round chasing the Snitch, the opposing seeker gets a +3 to his roll to see it. Dodging bludgersrequires a Reflexes/Dodge roll of 6 (unless targeted by a Beater). If a budget hits you, you automatically fail whatever roll you were going to attempt and must make an AGI+balance roll to stay on your broom (DC 9). If you fail you fall. If you fail to dodge by more than 5 then the DC increases by 3. Dodging a budget by less than 5 still grants a -1D penalty on your next roll. Getting hit with a budget causes three damage. Wizard duels (fights)See Magic Combat Casting a spell Every spell has a base DC (see list below) between 3 and 15. Some spells can be more difficult based on circumstances. Casting "Action broom", for example, on a broom 5 feet away would be a DC 9. When Harry cast "Action Broom" on a broom not even within eyesight, the difficulty would likely have been a 12 This works a lot like combat. First, initiative is rolled, only using Status/Reputation. Next, an "attack" is made against the opponent's Intrigue Defense (Cunning + Status) using persuasion or deception, depending on whether your char is being honest. Lastly, you roll "affect." The table below lists which abilities are used, depending on which tactic was attempted.1) Bargain: Influence: Cunning, Deception: Bluff2) Charm: Influence: Persuasion, Deception: Act3) Convince: Influence: Will, Deception: Act3) Incite: Influence: Cunning, Deception: Bluff4) Intimidate: Influence: Will, Deception: Act or Bluff5) Seduce: Influence: Awareness, Deception: Bluff6) Taunt: Influence: Awareness, Deception: Bluffs an example, we will use Ron Weasley and Draco Malfoy. Imagine that their intrigue related abilities look like this:Ron Draco Awareness 3 3Cunning 2 3Deception 2 3Persuasion 3 3 1B Intimidate, 1B Taunt Status 2 3 1B reputation Will 4 3Imagine Ron and Draco arguing at a Quidditch game in book one. First, both would roll initiative, using status/reputation. Draco would roll 4d6 and add up the highest 3. Ron would only roll 2 dice. Draco wins the roll, and immediately sets to insulting Ron to get a rise out of him. This would be a roll of Persuasion/Taunt. Even though Draco says a lot of untrue things ("Look, Harry must have found a coin on the ground for you to have!") they are clearly false and not meant to be believed, so Deception is not used. Draco's roll would be against a DC of 4, as Ron's intrigue Defense is pretty low. Again Draco rolls 4d6 and adds up the highest 3. The average for this roll would be about a 12, so we'll say he rolled that. Unsurprisingly, his taunt hits home. Since he only needed a 4, Draco scored two successes. The first success is attained for rolling what is needed (a 4 in this case), and an additional success is rewarded for every 5 that you pass that by. Next we determine how hard that taunt hit home. Taunting does "influence" (the intrigue equivalent of damage) based off of Awareness. Draco's Awareness is 3, so he does 3 points per success, no roll necessary. That makes 6 "damage" to Ron's composure (Willx3). Ron has a Will of 4, meaning 12 composure, so he is not out of it yet. Now it is Ron's turn. He fires back with a taunt as well, and rolls a 10 on 3d6. Draco's Intrigue Defense would be a 6, so Ron succeeds, but only with one success. He does 3 points of damage to Draco's composure (which starts at 9 with his Will of 3). Draco wasn't immune to the insult, but he's far from done. Draco decides that he doesn't like Ron talking back, so he decides to try to scare him into backing down. He rolls persuasion/intimidate this time, rolling 4d6 and adding the highest 3. He only gets a 9, but that is exactly enough for two degrees of success. Intimidate uses Will for damage, and Draco again does 6 points, bringing Ron's composure to 0. Ron loses, and rather than admit defeat, he takes a swing at Draco. Disposition Rating: Think of this as Armor Rating for Social Combat. This allows to reduce how much influence is levied against you. The more friendly you are to the target, the easier it is to influence you. Modifier to Persuasion/Deception tests. The more guarded you are, the less effective you are in moving others. Here are the seven Dispositions in Social Combat.1) Affectionate. DR 1, Modifier +3. Affection implies love and adoration, feelings of obligation and strong loyalty.2) Friendly. DR 2, Modifier +2. Feelings of kinship and goodwill and a relationship with strong bonds.3)Amiable. DR 3, Modifier +1. People you see in a positive light and consider you an acquaintance, but not necessarily a friend.4) Indifferent. DR 4, Modifier 0. Character has no strong feelings to you one way or another.5) Dislike. DR 5, Modifier -1. General unfriendliness and uncomfortable frostiness.6) Unfriendly. DR 6, Modifier -2. The character simply does not like you.7) Malicious. DR 7, Modifier -3. The character actively works against you doing what they can to do you harm even at risk to themselves. 1) Prerequisite Substitutions: If 1B is a prerequisite for any quality, you may choose not to buy the 1B but instead raise the ability score by one or more. Example: Animals requires Magical Expertise 3, 2B Transfiguration. One could also qualify with Magical Expertise 4, 1B Transfiguration or with Magical Expertise 5.2) Extra Experience: PM me with a complete lesson plan for Transfiguration and receive 1 XP if I approve it (I may request other classes later, but this is the only one I need for week 1. If I receive more than one I will use the second one later).3) Character Death: If your character dies in game (blatant suicide-issue deaths not counting), your next character starts with all the points the dead character had +1 DP. It may be possible to give some of those points to your other character, depending on the situation.4) Advanced Casting: Casting a spell without speaking the words is taught in Hogwarts for more advanced students, but the theory is simple enough that anyone could do it. Casting a spell without speaking the words grants a -3 penalties to the roll. Casting without a wand grants a -5 penalties. The penalties stack, so casting "expelliarmus" without speaking and without a wand would require a roll of 11.5) Combined Casting: If two or more wizards cast the same spell at the same time, add 1/2 of the weaker affect roll(s) (rounded down) to the stronger/the strongest one and use that as the overall effect roll. Example: Charlie Weasel is trying to stun a small dragon using the stupefy spell, which dragons are very resistant to. Knowing that he can't do it alone, he gets three other wizards to cast it at the same time. They hold until all 4 are able to act and roll to hit. Only 3 of them hit. They roll a 15, 12, and 11 on their affect rolls. The total effect roll would be 15 + (12/2) + (11/2), which equals 15 + 6 + 5, for a total of 26, far more than Charlie could have gotten on his own.6) Dice Rolls: When rolling to beat a DC, write the DC you are aiming for in the comments. The first column lists the spell name (Action) or a reference to it (Age Line). The second column lists the first time the spell appeared, or, if never appeared, then mentioned. The third column lists the DC. The fourth column describes the effects and appropriate specialty when casting them. Accio 4 6 (Ch) Causes an object to fly to the caster, even over distance; the target object is said to have been Summoned. The caster must know at least the general location of the object Summoned"Age Line" 4 12 (T)A thin golden line drawn on a floor, affects anyone who crosses it if they are too young/oldAguamenti 6 9 (Ch) Conjures a fountain or jet of clear water from the caster's wand. Alohomora 1 3 (Ch) Causes a locked door to openAnapneo 6 12 (Ch) Opens the airway Anti-Spells -- +3 Grants a +5 CD AND Passive Resist bonus against the spell it was designed to counter per success Antigravity 4 12 (T) Reverses up and downAparecium 2 6 (Ch) Makes invisible ink appear Apparition 6 9 Advanced spells to disappear from one place and appear almost instantly somewhere else"", Side-Along 6 12 Separating with a passengerAvada Kerala 5 18 (Cu) Causes instant death in a flash of green light Bluebell Flame 1 9 (T) Blue Flame directed to a specific place Braking 3 9 (Ch) Allows a broom to slow and stop Bubble-Head 4 6 (Ch) Creates a bubble of breathable air around a person's head Caterwauling 7 9 (Ch) An alarm type spell Cheering 6 9 (Ch) Cheers a person upColloportus 5 9 (Ch) Closes a door, sealing it Color Change 5 6 (Ch) Changes the color of an objectConfringo 7 9 (Cu) Explodes an objectConfundo 6 12 (Ch) Cause confusionConjunctivits 4 9 (Cu) Affects the vision and eyesCrucio 7 15 (Cu) Causes intense painDeletrius 4 9 (Ch) Dispels lesser spell effects (not contested)Deficit 7 12 (T) Digs through or hollows out a targetDeprimo 7 9 (T) Blasts a holeDepulso 4 6 (Ch) Sends an object away, object said to be BanishedDescendo 7 6 (Ch) Causes something to descend or lower itselfDiffindo 4 9 (Ch) Cuts weak inanimate objects Disillusionment 7 12 (Ch) Hides magical natureDissendium 3 6 (Ch) Commands an object to open Drought 4 6 (Ch) Dries Waterbury 7 9 (T) Turns object to stoneEngorgio 4 6 (Ch) Causes the target to swell in size, ended by ReducioEpiskey 6 9 (Ch) Heals damage to the targetErecto 7 6 (Ch) Sets up an object (tent)Evans 5 9 (T) Makes something go away completelyExpecto Patronum 3 12 (Ch) Conjures a Patrons (corporeal Patron require an extra success)Expelliarmus 2 3 (Cu) Disarms the target, possibly knocking the target back (+3 DC) and/or send his weapon flying toward the caster (+6 DC)Expulsion 7 9 (Cu) Blows up the target Extension Charm 7 12 (T) Turns containers into bags of holding Extinguish 5 6 (T) Puts out fires Feather-light 3 6 (Ch) Drastically decreases weightFidelius Charm 7 12 (Ch) Stores a secret inside a personFiendfyre 7 9 (Cu) Creates a beast of cursed fire Finite 7 +3 (T) Stops currently operating spell effect Finite Incarnate +3 (T) Stops all currently operating spell effects Fixing Charm - 6 (Ch) Makes an object adhereFlagrante 7 12 (Cu) Causes the target to burn all who touch deflagrate 5 3 (Ch) Wand-writing in the airFurnunculus 4 9 (Cu) Causes boils to break out on the victimGeminio 7 9 (Ch) Creates a copy of an objectGlisseo 7 9 (T)Flattens a surface (such as stairs)Momentum Revelry 7 12 (Ch) Indicates human presence in the target area Impedimenta 5 9 (Cu) Slows/Stops an objectImperio 4 15 (Cu) Brings the victim under complete command of the casterImperturbatus 5 12 (Ch) Creates a magical barrierImpervius 3 9 (Ch) Creates a clear barrier against rain and blowing dustIncarcerous 6 9 (T) Sends thick ropes to bind a personIncendio 4 9 (T) Starts a fire of varying scale Invisibility 7 12 (Ch) Renders something invisible Jelly-Brain 7 9 (Cu) Muddles target's mind Jelly-Legs 4 9 (Cu) Makes target's legs wobble uncontrollablyLanglock 6 12 (Ch) Glues target's tongue to rook of the mouthLevicorpus 6 9 (Ch) Dangles the target upside downLocomotor 5 9 (Ch) Moves an objectLocomotor Morris 1 6 (Cu) Locks the victim's legs togetherLumos 1 3 (Ch) A small beam of light, ended by Messenger spell 4 12 (Ch) Summons a patrons as a messenger"" Recant 7 9 (Ch) Halts a particular spellMobili- 3 6 (Ch) add the Latin word for an object as the suffixMorsmordre 4 12 (Ch) Conjures an immense glowing skull in the skyMuffliato 6 12 (Ch) Quiets the words of the caster and those speaking to him so that only they can hear Obliteration 5 6 (T) Covers tracksOblivate 2 12 (Ch) Modifies/erases a memory or even all memoriesPetrificus 1 12 (Cu) Turns the body rigidPortus 7 12 (T) Turns the item into a portkeyPrior Incantation 4 9 (Ch) Forces a wand to show the last spell it cast Protean Charm 5 12 (Ch) Complex shape change spellProtego 4 12 (Ch) Magical Barrier that deflects spells (+3 bonus to CD and resistance per success)Reduce 4 9 (Cu) Blasts solid objectsRennervate 4 9 (Ch) Revives someone who was stunnedReparo 2 6 (T) Undoes damage to an objectRepello- 4 12 (Ch) Keeps something away from the targetSalvio Dexia 7 9 (T) Strengthens the next spells cast (+1D affects rolls, +1 base damage per success)Scourging 5 6 (Ch) Scours something cleanSectumsempra 6 12 (Cu) Cuts something and can not be grown back by magicSilencio 5 9 (Cu) Silences the targetSonorus 4 9 (Ch) Makes the target's voice carry, ended by QuietusSpecialis Revelry 6 9 (Ch) Identifies ingredients of something Stupefy 4 12 (Ch) Renders the target unconscious (only dazed with one success)Merged 2 9 (Ch) Cleans an objectWingardium Levies 1 3 (Ch) Causes an object to hover Updated Other Rules 23 May 13.

Hogwarts_ More Than Magical (Rules)|rating:3.0

Love Between Monster Hunters (CH & LimitlessNikkie)

Le Jolly Chateau xis a six-story tall hotel. It is owned and operated by Clarice (a woman who is far older than one would imagine. The hotel caters to supernatural beings, and as such, is not exactly the most lucrative venture. There are other hotels that are higher profile and that will cater to a wider variety of specialized predilections. Demons and guests of the Illuminati, for example, always stay at the Six Star Plaza, a slick twelve-story building with a front made entirely out of black, ensorcelled glass that protects those within from sun and spell while allowing them a wonderful view of the cityscape. The Châteaux offered more humble accommodations, generally putting up lesser FAE visiting from the old country, wherever that might be. There were several relatively permanent residents to the hotel, however. A group of monster hunters called the place their home. It was their refuge and sanctuary and place of rest after fighting the good fight. Carter (leads the group out in the field, picking their targets and forming the core of the crew. There are prophecies that center around Carter and the role he will play in several important and fated events in the future, but like all prophecies they are very vague and have ample room for interpretation. He was born to the life of the monster hunter, and he has trained for it since he was in his teens. There was a time when Carter had mundane concerns that any child would, but tragedy struck and that life was something that Carter had to leave behind forever. Carter is an upbeat person who manages to see the good in everyone, which makes it all the worse when the baser side of their nature wins out. Walter (is more mystic than warrior, but he has guided and trained Carter. It is Walter who is in the main responsible for initiating Carter into the secret world of the supernatural and paranormal: everything Carter has learned so far has some root in a lesson of Walter's. When tragedy befell Carter, Walter was there to take care of the young man and mold him into what he believes is needed for the prophecies to come about in a way that favors humans not becoming slaves to some hell-lord and Earth becoming a cesspit of evil. At least, any more than they already are. Walter is a member of a secret society known as the Heirs of Asterion, and their methods are strange and their goals inscrutable. Moreover, their existence is improvable, so one might have reason to mistrust Walter if the proof of his words was not there to be seen with one's own eyes. For a time, Walter and Carter worked without any extra help. They started small: cleansing haunted apartments and taking down small covens of vampires. One coven that Carter destroyed was feeding off of the homeless, and one of their victims, Declan (asked to join up with Carter and learn the hunt. At first Carter rebuffed Declan, who was the one who actually wanted to team up with Carter. Declan's sincerity and persistence won out, and Carter and Walter have begun teaching Declan to be a monster hunter in his own right. The pair make a good team, and there is a deep trust between the two. A smart ass at times, Declan nevertheless occupies a fond space in the hearts of Carter and Walter, who view Declan as a younger brother and favorite nephew, respectively. Others have joined Carter's crew. Perhaps the most out of her depths is Lucy (a computer science major who got inadvertently sucked into this life while helping Carter investigate an underground fighting tournament that pitted not just supernatural against paranormal, but rounded out the brackets with normal human MMA enthusiasts. Some of the normal humans who went missing were recruited at Lucy's university, and she met Carter while he was following up a lead on campus. Her eyes were opened to the secret world, and although Lucy does not intend to dedicate her life to the fight, for now, she wants to help however she can. Lucy does "computer stuff" - basically anything more complex than text messaging, and except Declan, she had to teach them how - for the boys, who are hopelessly out of their league with modern technology. The muscle of the crew comes in the form Already (He was a voluntary participant in the underground fighting tournament that Carter was investigating. Carter got caught and was forced to participate in the tournament, and he reached out to Already in the fighting pits, needing an ally to survive the brutal, prison-like living quarters that fighters were kept in. It took some doing, but Carter managed to reach the ember of humanity in Already. The pair fought their way to the top of the rankings, and along the way they defeated the tournament champion, El Toro, and discovered that the tournament was the work of a cult known as the Cretans. Their actions forced the Cretans into the shadows, and Carter extended an invitation to Already to join the crew. Without any other goal or purpose, Already was won over with the promise that, at least, palling around with Carter would be a sure way to get Already all the monster faces he could punch. Mika 'Fox' Ericson (brings a fairly unique skill set to the crew. Beyond that she's a changeling, able to alter her physical appearance and possessed of charm and a gift with words that none of the others possess, Mika cannot be thought of as a shrinking violet: she is a capable hand-to-hand combatant, also skilled with knives and guns. And while Declan's been known to pick a lock or two, he still needs to get good: Mika's much better at the whole breaking and entering game. She left her family in New York, and used her gifts to blend in with hunters, learning their ways and culture for excitement. When a con went too far, and Mika got in over her head, it was Carter's crew that bailed her out. Mika joined because her skills were needed and appreciated, and she enjoyed the company of the crew. In the Châteaux, Carter lives in room 207. Declan is in room 201. Walter resides in room 416, although he maintains an apartment across town. Carter has been there once. Declan assumes it is a place for Walter to meet lady friends, and Walter's prevarications have basically convinced Declan of the veracity of his own assumptions. Already is set up in room 317. Lucy lives in campus housing, and she generally takes the bus to the hotel, or Carter or Declan go get her in Walter's car - an old BMV sedan from the '70s. It was a fall afternoon. In the alley behind the Châteaux, Declan and Carter were sparring under Walter's watchful eye. Carter was taking it easy on Declan, and for the younger man's benefit was leaving deliberate openings. Declan was not yet so good at hand-to-hand combat that he could spot them immediately, but he was getting better. Of course, even with these openings, Carter was experienced enough that he could avoid or parry Declan's attacks. Walter would occasionally call out a point where Declan was wanting, even calling a pause to demonstrate a flaw in stance or in method of a given attack, demonstrating with an easy confidence and encouraging word what Declan was doing wrong and how to correct it. Praise was given intermittently but sincerely: Declan was putting forward honest effort and making genuine improvements. Declan, Carter, and Walter were all clad in sweatpants and tank tops with suitable shoes. Declan's shirt was plastered to his chest with sweat, and Carter had mild evidence of perspiration, while Walter showed no signs of exertion. Lucy and Already entered the lobby of the Châteaux. Lucy was wearing yoga pants, a very large sweatshirt, and a pair of sensible and comfortable runners. She held the door open for Already, who was carrying a cardboard flat that held several brown paper bags. The bags held Chinese food from a diner several blocks away. Already was wearing a pair of jeans, a gray t-shirt, and some sturdy, heavy boots." I don't see Clarice." Lucy said, looking around. Already shrugged impatiently, since Lucy had chosen to stop directly in front of him, and there was not enough room between Lucy and the door for Already to maneuver around. "Usually she's at the front desk, isn't she?"" Maybe she had other stuff to do." Already said, trying to hold back the petty frustration from his voice. "Want to go get everyone?" Lucy nodded, and set off, then stopped after a half dozen steps that, nevertheless, liberated Already. He moved towards one of the tables set between a few couches, setting down the flat and opening one of the bags. He rifled through it, pulling out chopsticks and soy sauce." Where, uh, should I be looking?" Lucy said, shaking her left to right at the neck and biting her lower lip." Try out back. Probably find most of the guys there." Already said, looking up and regarding Lucy with blue eyes." And what do I say if Declan asks why we didn't go to the Golden Palace like he wanted and went to the Jade Mandarin instead?" Lucy pressed, shoving her hands into the big front pocket of her sweatshirt. It did not have a hood, but it had the pocket. It was a new, popular thing, Lucy said. No one pressed her on it." I didn't want to walk three extra blocks for crappy food." Already said sagely, pointing a set of chopsticks at Lucy with an authoritative air. "Their soup sucks, they overcook the noodles, their pork's tougher than old boot leather. And trust me-""Your mom made you eat old boot leather! Authentic old country recipe!" Lucy finished and saluted mockingly. She and Already chuckled. Lucy swiveled on her heel and went off to get everyone else. "Bickering intensifies!" She said to herself, and chuckled a bit more. That was an internet joke that Already did not quite grasp, but he understood that it presaged Declan quibbling over being utterly wrong about the Golden Palace having better food than the Jade Mandarin. Arkady grasped a box of beef noodle stir fry from within, and settled it on his lap as he worked a pair of chopsticks from their paper covering and snapped them apart. They were the cheap wooden kind that came like that, and they were way better than the cheap plastic kind that the Golden Palace gave. It was just one of many virtues that the Jade Mandarin had. He opened the tabs at the top of the box and let some steam escaped before he dug in. Waiting for other people before eating was not one of Already's habits. It was not as though he would eat everything and leave nothing for the others, but he was not going to wait around while food got cold, either. Fox laid on her back her legs cross at the ankles her toe just touching the ceiling as she read once again the list closing her eyes and reciting the words in her head her lips mouthing the words before she opened her eyes again her gaze tracing down the list as her lips formed a frown. "Damn it." She breathed going through the routine again, and again. Then one more final time before she crumpled the paper violently between her palms smashing the thing into a tiny ball before leaning over a bit and tossing it towards the trashcan scowling lightly when it bounced off the rim and rolled across the floor. Sighing aloud Fox swung her legs to the floor and stretched her arms towards the ceiling bending her back backwards groaning in pleasure as her muscles stretched and relaxed. Grinning lightly she straitened up before bending down and scooping up the paper ball dropping it into the trash bin as she glanced out the window. Declan and Carter were practicing with each other and Walter was watching them intently helping Declan with different steps and postures at different intervals. She watched Lucy move outside and knew the food must be there. Stretching a bit more Fox moved around the room picking up a pair of crumpled jeans off the floor and sliding them on hopping a bit to get them to fit right before buttoning them. Glancing around she found a shirt. It was a black off the shoulder thing with a deep scope neck that showed off her cleavage but not too much so. Tossing that on she tied back her hair into a messy bun and slipped on a pair of black flats. She kind of hated wearing clothing, it chaffed her skin but norms were so attached to their modesty, and she was so used to the rules of society she was simply used to getting dressed before going downstairs.Downstairs she found the room empty save for Already who was already eating. It seemed the others were still outside. She shook her head lightly moving across the room to join him lifting a slender eyebrow when she recognized the logo on the numerous bags, "Do you like annoying Declan or is it just a happy coincidence?" She asked an amused note in her voice as she picked up one of the little chopsticks packs slipping off the paper and snapping them apart before setting them aside and glancing through the bags to find her egg foo young. Perching on the edge of the table she opened her little box and inhaled smelling the food and sighing softly, "At least the food is good there." She remarked picking up her chopsticks and using them easily to separate the patty into little bites before lifting a morsel out and leaning over, so the juice didn't drip onto her clothes took the tender bite into her mouth smiling as the flavors teased her taste buds. Already paused and thought about it. "I like annoying him, but I'd still get food from Jade Mandarin if he didn't factor in." The big guy said. And Already was big. Tall and broad, Already would make a roomful of NFL players look small. Around the crew, it tended to get the monsters' attention and made him a prime target, but that worked out. Already could take a punch better than any of them. He sunk further into the couch and fished out a piece of broccoli. The green vegetable piece was popped into his mouth and he chewed it happily. "The first time it was just happy coincidence, though. That was a good time." Already said with a chuckle."BETRAYER!" Arkady rolled his eyes, and swung his head to see Declan pointing a finger at him. "J'accuse!" Declan said dramatically, and walked up to the table. "This isn't from Golden Palace!" The short youth fell to his knees and looked up at the ceiling. "You damned dirty ape!"" And the Oscar for Most Melodramatic performance goes to. . ." Already replied dryly, shaking his head at Declan's display. It was fairly tame, as these sorts of things went. So far, Declan hadn't started to butcher Shakespeare. Walter, Carter, and Lucy began rooting through the bags, searching for what they desired. Walter and Carter found vegetarian or vegetable heavy dishes and worked out between them how to portion it out between them without spilling. It involved a lot of awkward dumping and pouring. It was amazing how neither of them ended up with anything on their clothes, but they managed. Carter took a seat beside Already, sitting at the edge of his seat. Walter sat in a single chair and ate quietly, except for the crunch of perfectly cooked vegetables." Can I?" Lucy asked with some trepidation. Already tilted his head and shrugged. Lucy reached into one of the bags and pulled out another paper bag. This one had a yellow, vaguely Asian-themed castle on one side. Declan's eyes widened, and he snatched the paper bag out of Lucy's hands. He jumped up and down in place a few times." Oh gosh, Luc," he pronounced the first syllable of her name, "you're the best!" The young man opened his arms and was about to hug the young woman, but came up short when Lucy took a step back. Declan noted how sweaty and funky he was with a glance down, and immediately understood. "Sorry. I'm going to go grab a shower and eat in my room. Thanks again, Lucy." Declan said, and broke off in a run. He took the stairs two at a time, and Carter and Walter watched him go. Once Declan was out of sight, Carter laughed and Walter had a small grin on his face." You suck, Already." Carter said, throwing a mock punch at Already's bicep. The big guy grunted, but was unmoved. It was not a serious hit." Just let him think it was Lucy." Already said between bites. Walter dabbed at his lips with a napkin and spoke up next. "Mika, Already: I would like the both of you to go out on a patrol through Southside tonight. I've heard of a few people going missing in that area, and it sounds like it's within our realm of interest. I trust that won't be an issue for either of you?" The older man asked casually, glancing first to Mika and then to Already. Mika nodded looking amused as she ate another bite careful to drain a bit of the sauce against the side of the little carton so it wouldn't drip on her. There was nothing she hated more than to get food on her clothing. It was so annoying. It wasn't a moment later before the brief silence was broken by and outcry by Declan himself. Mika laughing pressing her chopsticks to her lips to keep herself from laughing aloud at the young man's antics. Already made his remark and Mika snorted softly shaking her head as she slides off the table to get out of the way for the others to get their food snagging a napkin as she went. Perching on the arm of the couch Mika watched everyone get their food as she nibbled on hers content to enjoy her meal. Lucy's question caught Mika's attention, and she lifted her gaze to the girl a smile touching her lips when she saw the bright yellow bag appear from one of the nondescript brown ones. Declan acted like a child at Christmas who'd just gotten what he's asked Santa for. In a few moments Declan left them thanking Lucy before he left. Then cater spoke causing Mika to look a touch confused as she listened a smile taking her lips as she realized the truth of what had taken place. "How sweet." She remarked with a touch of laughter lurking in those blue eyes of hers before she lowered her gaze to her food once more continuing to eat in small bites. At the sound of her name Mika lifted her head her blond hair sliding over her shoulder as she glanced to Walter as he spoke. "Yeah sure. Sounds like fun." She remarked taking another bite before speaking again, "Any clue what it is? I could play bait if people are getting snatched, maybe lure whatever it is out. God know's with Already there I'll be perfectly safe." She said tilting a playful look at him before focusing on Walter again to see how he would respond to her questions. "Municipal workers are the only confirmed individuals missing, but Declan has heard from a few contacts that several homeless have gone missing as well. The forensic reports from the scenes indicate the presence of some very out-of-place trace elements. Whatever it is something new to the area and probably migrated from further south, but there isn't anything that usefully narrows down what you might be up against." Walter replied to Mika's questions. "If you wish to play bait, I leave it to your discretion. That may be the best option if this is something non-sentient." Arkady leaned forward and put the empty box down on the table. He'd finished it off in the time it took Walter to ask Mika, Mika to agree and ask her own question, and for Walter to answer. He found a container with some deep-fried prawns, and tucked into those. They crunched fairly loudly, even with his mouth shut. There were some bottles of green tea, sweating with condensation, and he twisted one of those open to wash down the food. "Yeah. No sweat. My mom calls, you don't tell her what I'm doing, alright?" Already said to Walter, who simply nodded and chewed on a piece of tofu. Lucy, forgotten, chimed in. "Well," she said, drawing that out, "if that's really, I ought to get back to the dorms. Got a lot of reading to do for my classes, and I do sometimes need to get up when the sun's still up." The girl said, casting her eyes towards Carter. Nighttime patrols frequently left most of them leading a semi-nocturnal lifestyle, but Carter was most often guilty of sleeping the sun away. Carter was like a deer caught in the headlights, mouth full of half-chewed vegetables. He chomped down and swallowed." Is that a hint somebody needs a ride?" Carter asked after he forced the food down. Lucy hugged herself and shook from side to side, and then tapped her nose to indicate that Carter got the message." Are you going to change your face?" Already asked Mika. "I want to know ahead what you're going to look like, so I don't lose you." He spoke casually. Changelings weren't incredibly common, so far as Already knew, and Mika was the first he'd actually met, but changing one's appearance wasn't a huge deal for him. Not like it was, say, for Declan, who'd begged Mika to look like half a dozen different A-list female celebrities when he first learned she could look like basically anyone. It probably had something to do with Already's mom being a witch. Bubble, toil and trouble, and so on. Mike took in everything Walter said with slightly narrowed eyes something she always did when she was seriously considering something as she was doing right now as she considered every angle nodding when he has the decision to dangle herself as bait in her own hands. She would do it. The danger was just that much more excitement for her, she was confident anything she couldn't handle alone Already would be a match for. Regardless she didn't expect to get into any trouble, she rarely did. She went back to eating after that slowly finishing her meal and tucking the chopsticks into the container folding the flaps back into place before sliding off the arm of the chair to throw it away in the trash before digging through the bags to find the fortune cookies. They were silly, stupid most of the time but amused her nonetheless. She found them in the bottom of one of the bags with the extra napkins and chopsticks as well as the plastic forks and soy sauce packs. Lucy was bugging Carter for a ride and Mika smiled to herself amused by the rather routine teasing. "Catch" Mike said tossing Lucy one of the fortune cookies smiling lightly, "Don't study too hard." She said with a playful wink crinkling the cellophane wrapper of her own as she opened it cracking open the cookie to get to the little slip of paper inside it. At Already's question Mika shrugged, "Yeah. I think I'll go for the homeless street girl thing, not threatening but if they're picking off-street urchins it might attract whoever it is." She said tilting her head she considered what kind of face to use. For some it might have been an odd thought but for Mika it was just another day. In her youth she'd enjoyed wearing a new face every day. "I'm going to go with something gaunt, dull eyes, mousy brown hair. I'll need to find something to wear." She said mildly thinking out loud as she rams her fingertip through her hair, It sifted subtly to a dishwater blond as her fingers trailed through it. Lucy caught the fortune cookie thrown her way, and smiled in thanks. "Gotta. Need to get a high GPA." The other girl said with a shrug at the necessary evil of hard study. Carter finished eating, and held up a hand. Walter tossed car keys to Carter, who caught them. He and Lucy made their way out, and Lucy had started to talk about something to Carter that was over his head, but he listened gamely. Arkady nodded as Mika explained what she'd be going for with her look. "Alright."" Remember, it's just a patrol. It's more important for you to see if what's out there is something for us, or for the police." Walter said gently. Already grunted and nodded. He got up and went off to his room to get a weapon and a jacket. Southside was an industrial part of town. It had a lot of big warehouses, and empty lots with old decaying buildings that had been stripped of their innards. Steel production had built this district, but these days not as much went on. Every so often a meth lab went up in an empty building, and either the cops busted it or it moved on in anticipation of the cops showing up. Walter told Already and Mika that the confirmed disappearances were concentrated on an area about the kilometers square. Arkady carried a baseball bat. He'd prefer something with a little more oomph, but it was easily discarded and not super conspicuous. He wore a denim jacket. The night wasn't especially cold, but it helped to have a little something to keep the edge off. He stayed out of the dirty yellow lights of old streetlights, and as they got closer to the area of the disappearance Already got a little more excited. He hoped that there was something there. Maybe a nest of something man-eating, because then he could just go and swing away." Do you want to split up now?" The tall guy asked Mika. "You set up somewhere, and I'll watch somewhere out of sight?" The street looked like just the type of place vagrants and the likes would settle, wallowed out and wasting away. A place where the forgotten fringes of society settle and made a home. It might have been depressing, but Mika had seen a lot of places like this growing up. These were the kinds of place where dog fights took place, where drug deals were made and girls turned quick tricks on a dirty mattress for a twenty or a score. It looked deserted on the surface but like cockroaches people were scurrying about just out of sight, of that she was sure. Mika was dressed in a pair of cut off shorts that show long legs and a baggy t-shirt with the collar stretched out and was obviously well-worn. Mousy brown hair hung around her face (she hadn't brushed her hair giving it a wildly wavy look, and she had thrown a too big jacket over the whole thing that was also rather worn. She carried a large beach bag sort of purse that at first glance held all the things you would expect a street urchin to have, some snack like foods, clothing, a tooth brush, a bottle of water, a prepaid cell. But in the bottom was one of Mika's daggers, one was also strapped to the small of her back, just in case." Sounds good." Mika said with a nod before wondering down the street towards one of the allies, she cut through one then another until she got to the heart of the area where street people were being taken. There was a bus stop and Mika smiled going over to the bench and sitting down, her back pressed against the back rest and her knees pulled up to her chest. She tilted her head down and with her arm looped through the strap of her bag she looped them around her legs lying her head against her knees looking like someone getting a touch of rest in the safety of the light illuminating the bus stop. To Mika, it seemed like a perfect spot, in full view of anyone who was looking around wondering the streets or from of the eerie buildings. It gave plenty of spots for Already to watch her form, and it was the kind of place only a naive person would pick because though it seemed safe it was not being so out in the open as it was. Hopefully someone would fall for it and they would be in the money. The big guy followed, shadowing Mika and gripping the bat tightly. The face that she'd chosen made him regret the choice to split up, and he felt like an idiot for it. It was the same Mika, but he just couldn't shake how much that face got to him. The one she usually wore was very good-looking, but there was something about her current choice that evoked a protective streak in Already. He mused that, at least for him, it was true guys only cared about the surface. It made him feel like an ass, and made him hope they'd get lucky and find a monster. It seemed like they weren't going to. After half an hour, the only bite they got was a pair of gangbangers. They were gangly teen males with bad meth mouth, ratty clothes, red bandannas on their heads and more bullets than brain cells between them. And since they both had snub-nosed revolvers shoved down the fronts of their waist bands, it wasn't much. Already scared them off before they even got close to Mika. After a bit more than an hour had passed, Already was about to emerge from his vantage point and suggest that they move on somewhere else when they hit pay dirt. The first thing to assail both of them was a smell. It was an ocean smell, like rotting seaweed or kelp mixed with seawater. It got stronger really quickly, and five shambling forms emerged from an alleyway across from Mika. The alleyway wasn't well lit, but there was enough ambient light to make out humanoid forms shuffling her way. There wasn't any subtlety to their path. They were all dragging their feet on the ground, and the sound wasn't quiet the sound of shoes dragging on pavement: there was an extra sound, like shell or bone being scrapped along the asphalt. When the quartet got into the light, it seemed like the pair had answer about what'd happened to some of the missing municipal workers. The four were - had been - city workers. They had their coveralls with the city logo on. One still had a city worker cap. But they weren't men. Not anymore. The visible skin was pale as a fish belly, and they were covered with barnacles and anemones. Both growths emerged from random places, but the eye and mouth seemed common places. Two had their entire right arms covered with masses of barnacles, turning them into clubs. The anemones had a slick, black color and glossy sheen, as if they were made from greasy black plastic. The tendrils of the creatures began to wave vigorously as they spotted Mika, and they broke into a lop-gained run towards her. Arkady swore, and broke into a run themselves. He was far enough away that, even sprinting, the creatures'd reach Mike before he would. It made him angry. Sometimes that was a good thing. Sometimes it wasn't. Sitting trying to look vulnerable and meek was a boring job. With her head bent, and back arched Mika kept going over things in her head thinking of ow she was going to take a long hot bath after this as her back was starting to ache a bit for the bad posture. She considered several times getting up and moving, but that would ruin the whole 'lightly sleeping' impression she was trying to give. After a while she stopped fantasizing about a bath and just thought about nothing. Meditating was something that was hard for her to get to but when she did something like this she found it easier, she didn't have any distractions. The next twenty minutes slipped by, and then she hears something that pulled at her attention, and then there was a smell, a foul, horrible smell. Tilting her head as if in sleep she just opened her eyes a crack. Across the street she could see movement in the allay way. She focused on them and watched as they shuffled forward coming further in to the light and Mika recognized the uniforms her eyes going wide behind the vale of her hair at the deformities sprouting all over their bodies. Remember to act drowsy she lifted her head as if in response to the sound at the same time they started running at her." Shit" Mika hissed standing up and dropping behind the bench grabbing for the dagger at the bottom of her bag before dropping it completely and kicking it under the bench so as not to trip over it. Angling the knife in front of her Mika fell into a defensive stance behind the bench holding that spot knowing Already was coming at any moment, and she really didn't want to take on all four, besides they were rather repulsive looking. The first of the things raised a fused, club-like right arm and brought it down on the bench. The thing deformed under the force of the impact, issuing forth a loud crashing sound. The others moved around the bench at a shuffling pace, lunging awkwardly forward. At the proximity that Mika had with them, there was ample light to show there was nothing human left in them. Whatever force animated the bodies was not human life force but something else entirely. There were no men to be saved here, even if the pair could take the risk of subduing the four attackers. Arkady came in swinging, and hit one of the one with a cap like a freight train. The sound was just as loud as when the bench had been hit, but it had consequences that were more severe. The creature was knocked off its feet and thrown a few feet away. It landed hard on the street and didn't get back up. There was a depression in the shape of a baseball bat on its skull, and the anemones had stopped their movements on its body. But Already's bat had shattered with the force of the hit, and that left him with a useless, broken haft that he discarded. The big guy hadn't thought to bring a back up. He didn't really want to touch these things, and he grimaced. Being this close to them made his stomach churn and the Chinese food threatened to come back up. But Already got his shit together, shaking off the nausea just in time to catch a strike to the side of the head. One of the clubbers had swung its right arm at Already, and the bones mass knocked Already to the ground. Already saw bright spots and his vision swam as he lay face first on the pavement. There was a coppery taste in Already's mouth and blood dribbled past his lips to spatter on the sidewalk. Another of the creatures broke away from Mika, and the two that were focused on Already started putting the boots to him. The one that was still up against Mika got closer, and the tendrils on the anemones that grew from its flailed with almost sexual excitement at her proximity. It lunged towards her with a sudden burst of speed, extending pallid hands towards the young changeling's throat. There might have been a cry, from a different sort of monster, but this one couldn't make sounds that way. Its mouth was a mass of writhing black tendrils that strained to reach Mika, eager for her life and warmth. Mika flinched back when the thing broke the bench in front of her the others circling around. Her gaze flicked back and forth as her hand slide under her shirt to grab the other knife there as she moved backwards putting space between herself and those who would do her harm. They were grotesque being that made her skin crawl as she inched back her left hand coming out with the other dagger she held loosely in her palm. Mika was just starting to wonder where Already was when he appeared bashing one of the things so hard it flew through the air its scull caved in, leaving Already with only a broken bat in his hand. One knocked the big guy down and then another joined the first to kick at him causing Mika's own fear to spike. Se wanted to go to him, but there was still one draw close enough to her that the things growing off of it moving in the air all but touched her skin. Her stomach rolled at the idea of it touching her, and she lashed out slashing with one hand towards the creatures wreck of a face and then driving the dagger in her left hand into it's chest between the ribs and up. She twisted her wrist before pulling the dagger free from the sucking flesh as bile crawled up her throat as the things blood coated her fingers, making her palm slick. But she didn't have time to think not really, the thing hunched over in obvious pain. Mika pivoted back balancing her weight before kicking it in the head herd, snapping its head back, and it fell to the ground the tendrils still moving, but it was sluggish and uncoordinated. It was dying if not dead yet. She turned to where Already lay and moved towards him with speed and grace though she moved with next to no sound. Any sound she was making would have been covered by their own attack on Already. Moving right up behind on she gritted her teeth grabbed its head on either side and twisted sharply breaking its neck and dropping it to the ground. No sooner had she released her hands then the other swung upward with its club like arm clipping her hard in the chin and knocking her hard onto her ass. Her head rung and her vision blurred not just from the impact but from the pain causing her eyes to water. She groaned shaking her head and tried to get back her baring only to feel another impact across her shoulder blades that knocked her forward causing her to drop the daggers as she caught herself before hitting the ground. Already got up slowly. The things had some punch to them. But Mika's attack gave him a respite and it was enough. The large man grunted and ignored the pain he felt from the kicks. The barnacles had him, and he was bleeding from dozens of tiny cuts. A shower would definitely be in order when they got back. Lurching up to his feet, Already assessed the situation with a quick glance. He saw two of the creatures down, and one of them attacking Mika. It had her on the ground and disarmed. Before the creature could attack Mika further - it was already too much - Already grabbed it with both hands. He hefted it overhead with an ease born of anger, and then brought it down over one knee. Its spine gave an audible crack and the creature was broken in half. This one was capable making a noise, and it gave a high, inhuman shriek. But it did not cry out very long, because a furious Already stomped his heel into the thing's head. It was a sudden, destructive attack that saw its head splatter on the pavement. He was breathing hard and didn't even realize it. Already didn't notice how what he'd done made the stench worse. Instead, he whipped around and knelt beside Mika. All injuries were forgotten. "Are you alright?" He asked with a level of concern that surprised him. The face that she'd chosen had this strange effect on him. He felt bad that she'd gotten hit at all, but it was worse with that face on. "Shit, Mika, I'm sorry." Already added. He put a huge hand on her shoulder, and looked her over, trying to assess how bad it was. She seemed to be fairly alright, but it was tough to tell with just bare eyes. When she answered, they'd have to torch the bodies. Walter had some kind of alchemical reagent that would consume the bodies in seconds and leave behind nothing. It was useful for dealing with stuff like this. A few drops of a clear elixir from a vial and that'd be it: the bodies would be immolated in blue flames. But first, some photos with the cell phone. Already looked over at the bodies. They were still and unmoving. Take pictures first, then torch. Then he looked back over to Mika, face full of concern for her. Mika was shaking her head trying to get the fog to clear knowing she needs to roll out of the way when Already came out of nowhere and took the guy out with a savagery that mildly surprised her. Already had always been their tank using brute force to defeat enemies, but this seemed a bit brutal even for him. But was surprised her more as she sat slowly back on her heels tense from the pain of the impact in her shoulders was his attention. He leaned down and asked her if she was ok and apologized. Wincing just a touch when his hand touched her shoulder she pushed it off tilting away from him as she stood up looking a bit put off as she did so. "I'm fine Already" She remarked a bit tersely turning to pick up her daggers and put them away wincing a touch when she put the one strapped to her back away before joining him to take pictures of the disgusting things before moving them out of sight so they could get rid of them. Mika worked silently the whole time ignoring those concerned puppy dog looks in Already's eyes. She was rather pissed off at him, actually. It wasn't so much what he'd done, what he'd done was nice. He'd protected her from getting really hurt and was concerned for her. No, what pissed her off was why. It wasn't the first time someone had treated her different because of the face she wore nor would it be the last, but it still hurt. She'd considered Already her friend and she was more than a little hurt that he would be so swayed by the face she wore rather than who she was. The bodies smelled horrible but none worse than the one with the crushed skull who's dared attack poor little mousy girl incurring Already's wrath. Mika helped drag the things behind a building into a deserted allay way where no one would see them. She snapped a few more phones with her phone texting them to Carter and Walter before glancing up at Already breaking the silence for the first time in long minutes, "Let's get rid of them so we can get out of here. A quit looking at me like that." She said before glancing back down to the screen of her phone subtly shifting her features and hair back to her normal appearance as she texted Lucy Be glad you have a real life. They smell worse than they look She typed including a photo of the one that she'd killed first taking just a shot of it's rather repulsive face. At first, he felt relief, but then he felt guilt. He intuited immediately why there was a terseness in her voice. It wasn't expected. Maybe he ought to have expected it. He got up and out of her face. He had the vial of stuff in his jacket, and he went around dousing the bodies with them after taking pictures with a phone of his own. Thankfully Mika was handling the texting; it would've taken Already ages to get one message out. Text speak, with all of its truncations, were common for texts from Already. Or else he'd drop words to make faster. It was probably as funny as it was exasperating. At least one of the two. The blue flames died out quickly, and there was nothing left of them except for the residue on Already's boot. He couldn't treat that with Walter's concoction; not unless he wanted to have his boot go up in flames. And Already didn't. It was tough getting boots that fit him. He was so damned big that these boots were a custom job, and that'd cost more than Already'd liked by far. He'd have to wash them and. . . Do something about the smell. Maybe vinegar? Thoughts for another time." All done." Already said brusquely, not making eye contract with Mika. "I've got some junk all over my boot, so I'll find my own way back and get cleaned up on the way. I'll stick around for Carter or whoever to get you, and then I'll be out of your hair." He said, his deep voice dull and distant. Already was leaning with his back to a wall and facing away from her, both hands stuff in his pockets. His posture was tense and his shoulders tight. It wasn't that he was mad at her or that he blamed her or anything like that. Already was pissed at himself. He couldn't hold it against her for reacting the way she did. There was a part of him that wanted to be angry and ask her why she expected any better of him. But he didn't. And he ignored that part of him and hated that it was even there. Almost immediately Lucy sent a text back. 'D: Oh my gosh that's so gross ugh :barf: :barf: :barf:' There was also an attached image of herself making an exaggerated face of pretend throwing up. Another soon followed. 'But hey at least you're free from homework and tests and having to study. It sucks! Guess who has two thumbs and needs to read 200 pages for tomorrow? This girl! Ciao, Lucy Out!' A few seconds after the last text from Lucy, one came in from Carter. 'Where are you? I'll come pickup.' And then a minute or so later one came from Walter. 'Message received.' Mika was almost more angry when Already acted all hurt. "Whatever" Mika replied walking down the street from him still playing on her phone laughing at Lucy's text and feeling bad for the girl a touch. It would such having to try to balance a real life with all this shit too, but she also envied her a bit. How nice it would be to have a normal life, no never have to hide or pretend. To get to be the real you all the time. It must be nice. When Carter texted her she texted him the cross streets and leaned against the pole supporting the street signs in the full light the reflected off her blonde hair. She chewed her lip before texting Declan Movie night?she asked. It was her habit to watch something to take her minds off the things that go bump in the night after nights like this because otherwise she doesn't sleep well. She doesn't sleep well anyway, but it helped to have a distraction just before bed. Once in a while she and Declan would watch comedies together to help her get her mind off of things. Besides Declan was so funny he helped her forget." Carter's on his way." Mika said lifting her head to glance at Already. It felt awkward and she hated that. Sighing she waked over to where he was and put her hands on her hips. She always felt small when she was near him having to tilt her head up to look at him, "Look you can't treat me any different when I look different ok. My personality doesn't change with my face. I'm not some wilting flower just because I can look like one." She said showing a trace of that annoyance in her voice. "It was really sweet and everything, but it's not us, you know. So please just treat me the same ok." She said touching his arm lightly before turning away to check the street for headlights looking for Carter. Declan replied pretty quickly. 'OMFG RUSS!!! ’D :D :D Girl u got to gets snake on the way back tho.' He texted back with enthusiasm. One could easily imagine him bouncing around and sorting through DVDs to try and find something good to watch. The DVDs would all be bootlegs, but they were still good. Declan knew a guy and got them at basically rock bottom price. By the time that Mika got back he would've settled on a couple and let her pick. Or maybe he'd have his heart set on something. Then he'd make puppy dog eyes at her to get his way." It's not that easy." Already said, and did not make eye contact with her. There would be a few more awkward minutes before Carter got to them, but when a car pulled up, who else could it be in this part of town at this part of night. Already looked over his shoulder, and saw the make of the car and Carter's face through the windshield, then pushed off the wall. "But I'll work on it." He added and paused. "I'm sorry it happened." He sounded genuinely contrite. But he didn't expect everything to just be forgiven right away. It wasn't, in his experience, how things worked. Inside the car, Carter was oblivious to the awkwardness of the pair outside. If it'd been Carter with her, things would've gone different. That kind of gaffe wasn't one Carter'd make. His past efforts with Mika were proof of it: he'd been with her when she wore different faces, and he'd never treated her any different. That was probably part of why Carter was the Chosen One. He wasn't a creature of the eye who got caught up in things like external appearances. The young man reached for the radio dial, and turned the volume down a few notches. It wasn't loud - certainly not loud enough for the pair outside the car to hear - but when Mika got in they wouldn't have to raise their voices. Carter waited patiently, tapping the steering wheel to the beat of some Top 40 pop tune that sounded basically the same as any other Top 40 pop tune. It was mindless and catchy at the moment, easy to hum along to but nothing that'd stick with you for the rest of your day. Arkady worked his shoulders to loosen them. There wasn't anything more to say on his side. So he walked away from the car and off into the night. He'd probably be out all night. Mika smiled at Declan's text amused and happy to have such a carefree friend. If only everything was like that. But no Already wouldn't look at her and was acting all butt hurt. Again she shook her head now truly irritated with him. How hard was it to see her past the masks she wore? "Whatever." She remarked again shoving her phone in her pocket before going to the car getting in the front seat and putting her feet on the dash. "Already got stuff on his shoes so he's walking." Mika said though her tone implied there was more than just his shoes keeping him from getting in the car with them." Do you mind stopping somewhere? I need to pick up snacks." She asked running her fingertips through her hair pulling it a bit, a nervous habit she's had since childhood changing the topic half hoping Carter wouldn't ask but wanting to talk about it nonetheless. She didn't get it honestly. It wasn't as if they were strangers and he didn't know her. He knew what she was like, yet he acted as if she was an entirely different person when she wore that face. Shaking her head she leaned her head back on the head rest and sighed tuning into the music singing along softly as she closed her eyes. Maybe she shouldn't have reacted at all, maybe she should have just let it slide. If he hadn't acted like she was weak she might have, but that had pissed her off. "Does Already have some history with a brunette I don't know about or something?" Mika asked unable to keep quite about it wondering if maybe it looked like someone from his past or something, trying to figure it out, make sense of it. "Hmm." Carter made the noise to acknowledge he'd heard when Mika informed him that Already was walking. He looked at her feet on the dash, and imagined Walter being unhappy, but he didn't say anything about it. It wasn't a big deal in the big picture, and he didn't want to fight about it. He backed up and turned around, driving back towards the hotel. He was quiet, but it wasn't an awkward quiet. It was more like he was just giving her space to be Mika, and in that space she didn't need to say anything or explain anything." Naw, it's cool. There's a 7-11 on the way." Carter said, making a turn onto a different road. It added a couple of minutes onto the trip, but Carter wasn't one to mind. Although he saw her run her fingers through her hair and pull on it, and knew it was a nervous habit, Carter didn't ask. He figured if she really wanted to talk she would, and didn't want to make things uncomfortable by asking. So he left it alone until she spoke again." To be honest I don't know." Carter said, taking a quick moment to look over at her with an apologetic, lop-sided smile. Then his eyes were back on the road. They came to a stop sign, and it was red even though they were the only ones on the road. Carter chuckled, and rolled his head over to look at Mika again. "It's kind of a dark place, Already's history, you know? When we met, it wasn't really a time to share. I figured he'd come around if he wanted. He hasn't told me much: his mom's a witch, and she did some magic on him. No heart in his chest." Carter said, voice soft and relaxed. "Something happen while you guys were out you want to talk about?" The light turned green, and Carter accelerated. They had a few minutes before they got to the store. Mika shrugged her lips pursing just a bit as she tried to get it strait in her mind. "I wore a face to play bait like I always do. I didn't think anything of it, never do really just picked something that would look vulnerable and naive, fit the role you know. Anyway those things came out at me and if took a few minutes for Already to get to me. They were pretty fast. Nothing got to me before Already got there, and he knocked ones head in and then two broke off from the group to attack him and one kept after me. No biggie I took care of it. The other two had Already on the ground kicking the crap out of him, so I got one, but the other got me pretty good, knocked me to the ground with its club arm and Already freaked out and really laid into it before coming over and fawning all over me like I was some broken doll." She said shaking her head a trace of annoyance in her voice." I didn't handle it well, the fawning." she said shaking her head. "He was reacting to the face and I got defensive about it. I hate when people do that you know, especially when it's like that, when they seem to forget it's me in there." She said shaking her head again her gaze going out the window, "I told him strait up just don't do it again, but he said it wasn't that easy, he'd work on it and that he was sorry all without looking at me again." She said sounding kind of upset. "I feel like I hurt his feeling by being upset with him." She remarked summing up her feeling as she leaned her head against the window. After a few moment Mika smiled and turning to face him again, "Sorry, I know I'm overreacting. I guess I'm just sensitive about it, you know. Declan's teasing doesn't get to me, and you never do that and Lucy and Walter never seem to care one way or another, so I guess I just got used to it, having people look beyond the pretty wrapping paper so when he did it I was upset." She said with a shrug, "I'll get over it, don't worry about it." She said lightly falling into silence feeling bit better just for having said something to someone about it, "Nothing to be sorry for." Carter answered, giving Mika a smile. He meant it, too. "Sounds like he was ashamed." He offered. Not to defend or stick up for Already, but just to give his take on it. "It's something I had to work at, when Walter took me in. I learned the hard way that looks aren't everything." The young man admitted to her. He shrugged and let it go. He clicked on the blinker, even though there was no one else around, and pulled into the parking lot of a 7-11. Furthermore, he put the car in park, turned off the engine, and got out. His stroll into the store was leisurely and relaxed. There was nobody else inside except for the night shift worker, a young guy a few years younger than they were. He looked up from cleaning the hot dog rack and mumbled a greeting to them before going back to work. Carter greeted the young man and went to get a small Slurpee for himself. He wandered a bit through the snacks there, and grabbed a package of normal Skittles. There were different packages that tantalized and offered different flavor experiences, but Carter went with the tried and true of original, normal Skittles. He also tried not to think about whether the company responsible for making the candy was a subsidiary of a demon-owned he'll conglomerate. A very real risk." What are you going to get?" Carter asked Mika, wandering over to where she was. He wasn't in a hurry, or anything. He turned over a bag of chips, looked at the back for a second, and then flipped it back around. Mika shrugged at Carters words figuring he was probably right, but it was still odd to her and chaffed at her skin. It was easier to get along with people when they didn't know who or what she was then when they knew. They were the first ones in a while she'd tried with and that not everyone was adjusting so well bugged her a touch. It didn't mean much, she wasn't about to change the way she behaved nor cut tail and run, but it would still linger in the back of her mind nonetheless. They pulling into 7-Eleven and Mika was glad to get out of the car and move. Her back ached, and her palms were a bit scrapped though not nearly as bad as her knees which stung. She needed a shower in the worst way. Carter went to get a Slurpee and Mika moved over to grab a bag of chips baked lays her favorite, pretzels and in the ice dream section found a thing of vanilla. When Carter asked her what she was getting she tilted her head and smiled softly, "Just a few snacks, Declan and I are having a movie night. You can join us if you want, though he's more entertaining than the movie most of the time." she said with a light laugh grabbing two small bottles of coke and moving to the register with her pile of junk food. Other girls might have felt bad buying so much crap but Mika just wasn't one of them. She smiled at the boy behind the counter flipping her hair and flirting just a touch as he rang her up and then paid for her pile of crap that he bagged up for her. They probably wouldn't eat it all, but she'd grabbed what sounded good as she'd walked around the store. On a whim shopping was probably her favorite kind, it's how she ended up with such a versatile wardrobe. Thanking the boy Mika moved aside to let Carter check out waiting her gaze moving around the store in idle observation before moving back to Carter. Carter paid quickly in cash, and exchanged the expected pleasantries with the young clerk. He didn't take up a lot of time, and before they were out of the door the youth was back to cleaning the hot dog rack. Carter thought about opening the passenger side door for Mika, since she had all of that junk food, but in light of what they'd talked about before he thought the better of it. Once she got inside he started the car up again and got them underway and back on track to getting to the hotel. Sometimes he reached down to grab his drink and sip from it. The rest of the ride was in what Carter felt was a friendly silence. The kind you could have with someone else that just didn't need to be filled with words. He hoped that Mika felt the same way. Back the hotel Carter parked and turned the engine off, taking his stuff with him and locking the car behind them once they were done. "Have fun with movie night." Carter said with a grin at Mika, and went off to find Walter to give him back the car keys. Getting an extra set would be convenient, and sometimes there were vague determinations to look into it, but it never happened. Declan was lounging around in the lounge when they arrived, and it was all he could do not to run up and smother the pair of them. Like one of those super affectionate dogs that greets their owner at the front door when they get home by jumping all over them. He was wearing a white tank top, some loose blue shorts, and a pair of flip-flops. If he stepped outside he'd be cold and even in the lounge it wasn't the warmest attire but once they got to his room it'd be fine. "Aw yeah." Declan declared, bounding over to Mika's side and taking in the snacks she'd bought. "Going to get my snack on like. . . Something that rhymes hard with on." He finished, knowing it'd gotten away from him but boldly not caring. "C'mon, Mika. I got everything all set up." Declan took the stairs up, because he just had too much energy to take the elevator. It was up to Mika what she chose; but Declan was taking the stairs two at a time. Declan's room had a lot of stuff. He just seemed to accumulate. His bed was dominated by extra pillows and blankets, and he had the television on. The attraction reel was playing on the television screen since the DVD player was left on and idle; the picture promised physical comedy and sight gags. "You're in for a treat, Mika. Tonight we will watch a true masterpiece of modern cinema, a 10 out of 10 laugh riot." The young man declared when they were both present with an affected sophisticated accent that tried to be high class and British. But not authentically so - it was an imitation of what television and film had made Declan think high class, sophisticated British people sounded. "Thanks Carter." Mika replied with a light smile before her gaze went to Deccan and she smiled brightly. Declan was like sunshine, no one could hate sunshine. He bound over to her side taking the bags exclaiming making some lame attempted at a rhyme that didn't work but made the young girl laugh nonetheless. "Let me just stop at my room...a...moment." She said shaking her head lightly as she watched him run up the stairs like an energetic puppy unsure weather he'd heard her or not. Mika simply shrugged jogging up the stairs behind him stopping at her room to change into a large white t-shirt with the words 'I'm really a mermaid' scrawled across the chest in bold black writing, a pair of spandex shorts that more or less disappeared under the hem of her shirt and a pair of bright blue socks. Her hair was twisted up into a messy bun and pinned in place with a couple of chopsticks before she padded down the hallway to Declan's room and plopped herself comfortably on his bed snagging a pillow and hugged it to her chest." Your such a goober Declan" She laughed grabbing one of the bags and fishing out the ice cream and one of the plastic spoons from the bottom of the bag taking a bite of the melting creamy snack. "MMM" She sighed leaning back against the wall wincing a bit and drawing away her shoulders still sore from the attack earlier. "This is just what I needed tonight." She said moving to lay on her stomach her knees bent and feet leaning against the wall." Come lay with me." She said patting the bed as she ate another bite of her ice cream as she watched the clip reel giggling lightly at the scenes portrayed. Declan was like a brother to Mika, at least that's how she thought about him. She was utterly comfortable around him, the idea of them being anything beyond close friends never would have crossed her mind. "I've got some Icy Hot if you want." Declan offered as he joined her on the bed, guessing she'd gotten hurt on the hunt earlier. His arms hung forward and his fished around in the bag, pulling out the pretzels and opening them up with a small switchblade. His wrist flicked around and the bag with sliced open and the blade appeared only as a brief flicker of white light before it vanished back into Declan's shorts. The young man was pretty good with small knives, but most of it was fancy, flashy tricks like that. He had a flair for flair, but in a fight knives weren't his strong suit, although monsters got themselves cut all the same. He found the remote control on the floor and pressed the play button, and the movie started with all the usual credits before the movie actually got started. They at least didn't have to sit through the anti-piracy stuff: bootleggers didn't keep that shit in, so only people who bought it legit got warned about fines and jail time. The movie's plot was very thin. It revolved around a pair of slackers, one of whom was like a twin for a military dictator from some banana republic in South America. Misadventures resulting from mistaken identity ensued, and what was really cool was the movie using practical effects instead of cheap CGI. It made it look a lot better when one of the characters went tumbling down a flight of stairs fighting a man dressed - for reasons the movie never made entirely clear - up as a flamingo. There were moments of pretty obvious green screen when the characters were swimming away from stock footage of a shark that looked like it came from a '70s National Geographic documentary, but that was funny too. At least, Declan laughed. It was hilarious to him." This's good times." Declan said when the movie was winding down. All of his coke was gone, and he was fiddling with the empty bottle. "Be great if it was always just stuff like this. Y'know, no patrolling or hunting or stuff. Just us. 'Kept Army. Stupid ass." It seemed Declan was getting drowsy, but there was a slight slur to his words, and it looked like he was having trouble keeping his eyes open. Mika waved off Declan's concern, she knew she'd be fine. A hot shower and a good nights sleep, and she'd be fine in the morning. She'd always healed quickly as long as it wasn't broken skin. Her hands and knees would take much longer to heal then her back. The movie wasn't all that sophisticated, but Mika had fun laughing and eating her ice cream enjoying the light fun moment between the two of them. It allowed her mind to leave behind the horrors of the things she'd seen and simply enjoy the moment without all the pressures that seemed to be constantly hammering on all of them. Declan started talking and Mika tilted her head to look at him amused by the drowsy look brown eyes of his. "What's wrong with Already?" Mika asked mildly amusement rip in her voice there was curiosity there too. She knew the two ad their tiffs, but it had never seemed serious enough to say anything about before. "I'll let you go to sleep if you tell me." she sings longed playfully rolling onto her side to poke him softly in the arm. "Come on spill why is he a what did you call him? Stupid ass?" She said teasing him playfully nudging him lightly making it clear she would make a nuisance of herself if he didn't answer her. Declan gave a whine as Mika poked him and made a face of fake unhappiness. But he was too tired to really defend himself, and the best he could do was barrel roll away from her a few turns. It put him just an inch or so out of arm's reach. "No fair." The youth protested. "Army's a stick up the ass stick in the mud. Always so grump and such." He continued on, looking at Mika through hooded eyes. "And never keeps a promise. Beside'd get food I like. Wasn't for Luce would've had to eat other stuff." The coke bottle got tossed idly, and it landed with a bounce in an open waste-basket. If Declan weren't sleepy he'd probably make a ham-fisted sports analogy or some sort mixed sports metaphor, none of them involving games that cared about getting a ball or something into a designated area. Because Declan was like that. It was part of his charm. But now he just gave a half-hearted 'wood.' And then he looked back at Mika." And now? Like right now. This minute. Where's he? Where's he?" Declan pressed. "I bet you a dime to a doughnut he's off butt hurt about something hurting his stupid butt 'because he was stupid and a butt." Declan bobbed his head once in a nod. "What if we needed him, huh? Can't count on him. Doesn't even care about us. Just wants to punch shit." Declan looked Mika in the eye. "Tell me I'm wrong." He dared her. Mika couldn't help but laugh at Declan's whine watching him roll over a couple of times to get out of her reach. Mika rolled her eyes at Declan's complaint about food, "You know both of them went out and got the food right? Seems to me both of them got you that crap." She said brushing aside his complaint without revealing anything. Already seemed like the type that would not want his whole life exposed especially since he told no one much of anything. She smirked when Declan wooed his shot and sat up slowly groaning softly as she moved her body from the comfortable spot. She turned her head to listen to him feeling guilt eat at her. If it hadn't been for her Already probably would be here and Declan wouldn't be bitching about him. "I don't know where he is right now, but you are wrong he cares." She said leaving out that you needed to look like a timid brunette, but it didn't matter. He was capable of feeling something for someone else and that was enough for the moment." I'm going to bed. Try not to be so hard on Already, who knows what kind of shit he's going through." She said leaning down to muse Declan's hair smiling to herself, "Sleep tight buddy." She said picking up their trash from the floor and slipping out the door. Dumping the snacks off on the table she threw away her trash and yawning she pulls the chopsticks out of her air and got undressed getting into the shower with a sigh of relief. She spent a long time under the hot stream of water easing the aches from her body. Without any illusion her back was molted with bruises and her knees and hands were scrapped pretty good, but she'd be ok, or she would be ok in a few days. Getting out of the shower she dried her hair and pulled an illusion over her injuries. No one needed to see that even by accident and crawled into bed pulling a sheet over her chest leaving her back bare to the air as she let herself fall into sleeps embrace. Declan looked at her with an expression that was unconvinced. He was too tired to point out that they'd all gone through some kind of shit or argue why he believed only Lucy was responsible. It was a blessing for both of them. The youth meant to offer that she could sleep in his bed tonight, but he was snoozing before Mika'd even finished picking up the trash. The next morning, Walter, Carter, and Already were to be found downstairs in the lobby, sitting at a table. Carter had a slim laptop open and was poring over its screen, scanning quickly through scans of old books and old news articles. Walter had a stack of books, and he had one open that he was reading with care and a magnifying glass. Both of them had coffee from the day's continental breakfast at hand, and both took sips every now and again of the strong liquid. Both of them drank it black. Clarice was around the hotel, somewhere, and there had been a few check-ins, but none of them stuck around like the crew did. They had business elsewhere and didn't bother them. Arkady wasn't researching, or doing much of anything. He sat low in his chair, staring at the surface of the table with a distant expression. He was wearing the same clothes he'd gone out in last night. His left forearm had a bandage wound all the surrounding way from wrist to elbow, and there were dark stains that showed injury it concealed had still been bleeding when the bandage was applied. The shirt he wore showed damage and was destined to be little more than a rag, and the white of gauze could be seen between slash marks that would have otherwise laid bare skin. The whole left side of Already's face was one big bruise, and his eye had swollen shut from it. There was a cut on right cheek that was held shut by a pair of stern-strips. Declan had yet to make an appearance, but that wasn't unusual: he slept late when he could, and now he could." This is starting to look like what happened in Solomon Island." Carter said grimly. Walter shook his head, but did not look up from the passage he was reading." Then we'll definitely need to go down there." Walter said softly, his voice tinged with foreboding. Mika rose as usual just after eight her blue eyes closing against the sunlight that streamed through her window. Every night she meant to close the blinds and every night she failed to do so. Rising with a stretch of arms over her head she twisted her back giving a light smile when it proved to only be a bit stiff but not overly painful. Her back would be vivid colors for a while but no one would ever see unless she got really hurt so it didn't matter all that much. Pulling on a pair of denim shorts and a large off the shoulder shirt she pinned her hair off to the side and out of her face before heading downstairs to get her coffee. She was coming into the room when Carter spoke and Walter replied. Confusion touched Mika's face as she picked up the coffee pot, "What happened on Solomon Island?" She asked pouring her coffee and adding a good measure of creamer and a touch of sugar before sipping it to make sure the proportions were right looking to the two men as she waited for an answer her gaze flicking to Already for a moment though it didn't linger there. In all honesty she didn't know how to act around him and felt awkward, but it wasn't as if she could run off. So she moved to perch where she usually did on the arm of the couch sipping her coffee as she normally did each morning. "Are there nice beaches?" She asked to try to lighten the tone since she could already imagine the kind of shit storm they were getting into based on Walters tone. "An undersea species of supernatural called the Drug invaded. One their tactics is to corrupt humans into slaves and cannon fodder. The end result looks a lot like what you encountered last night." Walter said, putting down the magnifying glass and draining his cup in one long drink. He rubbed at his eyes and then leaned back in his chair. "By the time the Paranormal National Guard became involved, the Drug had the entire island overrun. Things had progressed that the only real option was to drop. . . What would Declan call it?" Walter turned his head to look at Carter." A 'spirit nuke.'" Carter supplied helpfully, still clicking away. Walter nodded. It was easier to go with that than anything else. And it was close enough to the truth." On the island and then sending in CDC teams to burn whatever was left over." Walter finished. Carter looked up at Mika and grinned. "Anyway, Solomon Island's off the coast of Maine. The beaches would suck: cold, cloudy, and with the kind of wet, sticky sand that just gets on everything and never comes off." The dark-haired young man chuckled. "Could probably get some nice lobster rolls though." Carter raised his left hand and mimed the snapping of a lobster's claw with three rapid taps of his thumb to first two fingers." What are we going to do if it is Drug?" Already said, and it startled Carter and Walter, who had forgotten he was there because he'd been so quiet up until now. Walter composed himself. "If it is, I'll pass it along to a contact in the Illuminati. Dealing with a Drug infestation's too big for us to handle. Lots of mopping up to do that needs to be very thorough." Already nodded at this. "But I absolutely need to go somewhere to get something to eat. Would any of you care to join me?" Walter asked, issuing an open invitation. Already shook his head, declining. Carter nodded." I'm down." The young man said. He looked over at Mika to see what her answer was. Mika looked thoroughly repulsed by the entire description. She shook her head lightly at the description of the beach her lips twisting into a kind of grim smile, "Pass. That sounds awful" She said chuckling lightly. She looked at Already as he spoke curious as to the answer looking kind of relieved when they said they wouldn't have to deal with it. At the offer of food Mika perked up nodding brightly."Yeah, I just need to grab shoes, I'll meet you out in the car." She said hopping up with her normal ease and jogging over to the stairs bounding up them. In her room she slipped on a pair of flats and stopped to check if Declan was awake only to leave him snoozing. She'd considered waking him up for a moment but decided not to. He'd taken enough of her harassment the night before. Coming back downstairs she paused in the lobby turning to look at Already. "You sure you won't come with us?" She asked trying to break the tension she felt but not wanting to push too hard. She knew time was sometimes the best cure for tings, but she wasn't all that good at waiting most of the time especially with people like Already that seemed like a closed door all the time. "It'll be fun." She said her voice a gentle tease as if to be enticing. By the time Mika came back to the lobby, Carter and Walter were already out in the car, as would be expected. Carter's laptop would be stashed in the trunk, along with Walter's books. The trunk had a special carrying case for the books built in, from the days when the pair led a more nomadic existence than they did now. So the table was bare except for the empty cups that had once contained coffee. They were washable ones, although Clarice did put out to-go style ones. Arkady met Mika's gave and shook his head. He smiled, and held it for a while before a wince powered through it. "Yeah, I'm sure. I'll figure something else out." The large man said, putting forward effort to be nice about it. "Besides, with four of us in that thing it'd be a cramped ride. And this," he held up a hand to gesture at his face, "would just get all kinds of unwanted attention." He lowered his hand and paused. "I probably should put ice on it or something." Then he winced again, not enjoying the talking with his bruised face. Every word was painful." You better get going. They might leave you." Already said, and then jerked his head away. He'd been trying to joke with her, but his face just felt like someone'd driven a bunch of nails into it. Jerking away was just a reaction to that, and he swallowed the urge to curse. That'd just make it worse. He looked back and gave Mika a weak smile, before lurching up and walking off towards the stairs. Mika shrugged at Already's refusal though she looked rather pleased about something. It was because despite how oddly things had gone the night before he seemed fine now, and it allowed her to relax. "Yeah you probably should. It can't hurt right." She said with a light smile her gaze flicking to the door when he mentioned they might leave her. "I doubt it, but I shouldn't keep them waiting. I'll see you later Already" She said with a smile and a light wave before going and getting into the back seat of the car. Mika buckled her seat belt and flipped her hair over her shoulder as she got comfortable shifting her long legs to the side so she wouldn't feel overly cramped. "So where are we going?" She asked idly as she rolled down the window a bit enjoying the cool air of the early morning though not enough to really disturb anyone else seeing as she was in the back seat." Some place with crêpes I hope." she said with a bright hopeful smile directed at the rearview mirror. Crêpes in her opinion were just about the best breakfast there was, fresh fruit a little bread and with a glass of milk it was a wonderful bright way to start that day, not heavy like pancakes, or too much protein like eggs that tended to make her a bit sluggish too early in the morning. "In point of fact, they do make crêpes, and they are delicious." Walter declared in a very pleasant tone. "If you like crêpes you are in for a treat, Mika." The older man said, looking at the young blonde woman's face in the rearview mirror. And then they were off. It was very different from when Carter had picked Mika up last night: there were cars and pedestrians everywhere, and the trio went to a part of town where there were lots of people. The place that Walter took them to was a fancy looking place that boasted having organic, fair-trade and/or local foodstuffs. Walking in the smell of freshly brewed coffee and freshly baked breads were the strongest and very great. People were grabbing morning cups of coffee at a till, but there was an open door that led into a sitting area for a conventional, sit-down meal experience. Walter led the group in and selected a table near a large glass window. He took a seat that would allow him to watch people pass by. A young brunette woman about Mika's age brought them some menus. They had all the expected breakfast stuff, but as Walter promised, crêpes were there. Carter was setting up his laptop, and Walter had his phone out and set it on the table. The menu offered different preparations of crêpes. "I think I'll have the chocolate banana crêpes." Walter mused, looking over the menu and relaxing in his chair. "Awesome" Mika said sounding pleased as she leaned back into her seat and looked out the window watching the movement of the surrounding city. The traffic was thick around them and there were people everywhere going about their day. Mika watched them with a touch of envy wondering what it must be like to have such a normal life where you went to work and then had a life at home. It would never be like that for Mika her personal life would always be intertwined with her work. She didn't regret it in the least, she loved her life, but it was human nature to covet the things she couldn't have. The place they went to smelled heavenly with aromatic coffee filling the room. Their table had a lovely view of the street outside bustling with activity. She smiled lightly picking up the menu and glancing over the selection of crêpe fillings, "oh blueberry" Mika said smiling, "I'm going to get the honey blueberry with an espresso. It smells amazing in here." She commented smiling lightly pulling out her phone and texted ArkadyWant anything brought back?and then Declan, Your missing breakfast :P Want anything? Before setting her phone down face up." So how do you think we got Drugs here?" She asked sipping her water glancing between the two men, "Seems A bit out of place to me." She commented idly curious since it wasn't something she'd ever come across or even heard of before and well that simply didn't happen every day. "Probably with a seafood shipment for a supermarket." Walter said, eying some people who walked past the window and then half-smirking with something that amused only him. Their server returned and took their orders. Then she left the three again to their talk. Declan was the first to reply to Mika's text. His answer was: 'Gemma a mcgagnbang oh wait man no Gemma a mc10:35 please mikawankenobi you are my last hop.' Carter shrugged at the statement that it was out of place. "World we live in, Mika." The guy said, basically at peace with things as they were. He had to be, being a prophesied-chosen one, or else it'd just tear him apart otherwise. "If you don't want to come trekking down in the sewers with us, there's something else you could follow up on instead. Probably more suited to your skill set anyway." Carter tapped at his keyboard and was reading an e-mail. "Pattern of missing girls near the university. All of them blonde, green eyes, and uh. . . Athletic. Yeah. Athletic." He looked a little embarrassed and turned the screen towards Mika. It showed an online news article about several young women who had all gone missing and were last seen at the university or within two blocks of it. The young women all fit a physical profile like Carter described, although the news article employed 'large-chested' rather than 'athletic.' Mika nodded lightly at Walter's words having not really considered that possibility. It seemed a bit far-fetched to her, those things had stunk to high heaven, how do you not notice them? But then again mundanes often only saw what they wanted to see ignoring the fantastic for the comfort of what was normal and safe. If they didn't their wouldn't be a place for people like them to lurk in the shadows. Her phone chirped lightly with a text, and she read it her eyebrows drawing together in confusing before her fingertips danced over the screen with a reply, Umm Translation please, I don't speak first thing in the morning Declan At Carters mention of another job Mika tilted her head with interest. Something that appealed to her skill set was generally less smelly than sewers. She listened with obvious interest to the article and nodded leaning in to look at the pictures of the young girls, "Athletic isn't the word I would have used Carter." She said her gaze flicking up to meet his laughter in those bright blues of hers before she sat back. "Sounds my cup of tea. That wouldn't happen to be Lucy's school would it?" She asked sipping her water an idea already forming in her head. 'It is when you get an egg McMuffin and then a double, and you like to put them together to make a shame child of fast foods'Declan texted back, more coherent and helpful.'but you have to be sharp - you can only get it when they are just switching from breakfast to lunch''if you can't than I'll just eat whatever as long as it has meat and bread. Gonna do some weights so I won't be near phone thanks love you Carter shifted his weight in his seat. "Yeah, well, I am. . . Not gonna talk about. You know. Boobs." He said, his face getting redder and more embarrassed as he soldiered through that awkwardness. Carter's eyes darted dangerously to Walter, who had his glass raised strategically to cover his mouth. There was a lot of stuff that Carter could handle: vampires, werewolves, a Twilight marathon, hell beasts. . . But apparently this was where things got tough. He was, for the moment, saved by their server bringing their breakfasts. Walter had a pot of tea for himself. Carter had coffee, and unlike the others, he had a regular breakfast with eggs, bacon, toast, and all of that good stuff. The food was very good." Anyway." Carter said once they were alone again. "Yeah, it's Lucy's school. I don't think she's in any danger." Lucy was not 'athletic' by any stretch of the imagination. "Given the pattern, I'm thinking either vampire, warlock, or someone who just learned a mind control spell." Then he shuddered." It could be someone trying to make a re-animate." Walter supplied, which was an unpleasant thought." Yeah. Just thought of that." Carter said. In other words, a re-animate was like a Frankenstein's monster. Declan's text was enough to make Mika roll her eyes and shake her head. Shame child of fast food indeed. It sounded like a heart attack on a bun to her but whatever floats your boat. She wasn't one to talk with the way they all lived might as well live it up wile you can, who knows when some monster might take a bite out of you the couldn't afford to lose." Because their dirty, dirty things?" Mika asked with a laugh lurking in her voice glancing at Walter who offered Carter no life raft. Instead, that came in the form of a waitress bearing food, food that completely distracted Mika from continuing to tease Carter. The crêpes were divine the pastry light and airy and the blueberries were perfectly accented by the honey that added just a touch of sweetness to the tart berries. Her coffee was wonderful too rick and thick giving her energy before it even hit her stomach." I'll text Lucy later today. She can give me an in to the school, so I don't look out of place. I'll attend a few classes with her, find out about the other girls. Get myself seen. Hopeful know what's going on by the end of the week." She said taking a bite as she mauled over the details in her head, "Declan might be helpful if it's vamps but either way I'd like a little muscle on call if something goes pear shaped. I don't plan on getting monster napped, but I'd like a lifeline close at hand just in case." She said though it wasn't the complete truth, she planned on getting as close as she could. "Can Lucy use the photographs of the girls to compare to the university database and find out what classes they were enrolled in, if any?" Walter asked. Carter shook his head." Lucy says computers can only do that in televisions and film. She also assured me that the Gibson is not a 'righteous hack.'" Carter replied. Walter's brow furrowed, and Carter shrugged. "I could probably try to impersonate a Fed and get in on the local police records. That ought to get us names and if the police did enough leg work they might have enrollment information. Hope it's the first thing they tried." Walter nodded, although they had both had their fair share of dealing with police ineptitude under their belts. They would not know until Carter tried it. "You want to come along for that, Mika? It might help, and you could ask the right questions to help you blend in." Walter added a touch of honey to his tea and sipped. "And who do you prefer to have ready on call for you?" The older man asked. Taking another bite of her crêpe Mika nodded, "Yeah sounds like a good idea. I'll look into what the media has on the vice. Pretty blonds I'm sure one of the vultures has dug into their past maybe picked up something I can use, a similarity besides their obvious athleticism." Mika said giving Carter a light smirk before lifting her drink to her lips to take a light sip of her coffee. When asked who she wanted on call Mika tilted her head to the side thinking about both men. Declan would fit in better but if things got hairy then he might not be the best fit for the situation but then again Already couldn't step foot on campus without being noticed, and she wouldn't make very good bait if she was seen with him and Already's intimidating presents drove him off. But if the predator liked a challenge then Already would be perfect." I'm not sure yet." Mika said shrugging softly, "Both have good qualities for something like this, but I want to find out as much as I can before picking. Lucy's hardly going to be intimidating but if the hunter is easily scared away then Declan is the better choice but if it doesn't care, if tough to handle or likes a challenge then Already is the better choice." She mused allowed using the edge of her fork to cut another bite of her crêpe." Let me do my research and I'll get back to you." She said lifting another bite to her lips and eating it giving a light smile of pleasure at the perfectly ripe blueberries. To look at her from the outside you would never guess she was anything but an average girl enjoying a simple breakfast with friends. She would never have a clue her mind was spinning with thoughts about murdered girls and trying to trap the culprit behind it all. Walter nodded at Mika's response. It was a sound one, and he did not push things any further. The rest of the meal was completed in a comfortable silence. Walter took care of the bill, and if Mika wanted they would make a detour to get Declan something on their way back. Back at the hotel Carter went off to prepare for his investigation and impersonation of a federal agent. It took him some time, but when he emerged from his room he was wearing a suit and tie and looked the very image of a fed from television. It worked for him because it played into people's expectations, even cops. He had his styled in a professional douchebag manner, and he smelled of a cologne that bespoke money and smugness. Walter collected Declan, and the pair were set to go off and make some purchases at the mystic market. Declan was bemoaning his fate; his chief complaint seemed to be that there was an old troll lady there who smelled like garbage that had it out for him who worked at a stall that sold things Walter needed. Even now Declan was relating a time when, allegedly, the old troll woman had eaten a live kitten in front of him, crunched its bones, all while staring him straight in the eye. It was all to creep him out, Declan claimed. Arkady came tromping in from the back. His left arm was covered in drying blood, and he was carrying a severed crone's head. His other arm held an old axe that had - against all logic - survived from the viking era. "First off: she was looking you in the eye because she thought you'd steal her food." Already said, to which Declan made a face of complete terror. "Second thing: it's not just drug. Mom tipped me off to a sea hag. Tracked her down while you guys were out." His face looked a lot better, but it was still obviously painful, and he could kind of see out of the eye previously swollen shut. "If you're headed to market, mom'll have the stuff for a speaking ritual." Walter nodded, and looked gravely at the severed head. Carter was unfazed, but Declan looked a bit green in the gills looking at it. "Let's go, Declan." Walter said purposefully, pulling the young man along by the arm to ensure he followed. Declan's eyes stayed on the severed head until they were outside." Harsh times." Carter said to Already, looking at the taller man's face with searching eyes. Already shrugged. "What's your mom going to want for helping us?" Arkady shook her head. "We've got what we need." He shook his hand, and the severed head bobbed at the end of the long, matted hair Already gripped. As the head bounced, it was visible that the eyes had been plucked out with some skill. "She got what she wanted." Carter nodded in understanding: there was no need to ask now what had become of the rest of the crone. "You smell like a douchebag." The big man said, nose wrinkling in disgust. Carter chuckled. "That's me, federal agent douchebag. Helps fool the cops if they're too busy thinking I'm some young know-it-all douche to really question my credentials." He explained and Already nodded. "Mika might be coming with me on this. There are some girls gone missing near Lucy's school. There's a Vic pattern, so it could be a danger who's a picky eater, or maybe some warlock with a fetish. Could just be a regular psycho, but still going to look into it." Again, Already nodded. He wanted to say more, about not getting Mika into that because invariably they fell back on using her as bait. It was starting to bother him a little. (did have them swing by and get Declan his food, going into the fast food place wearing the body and face of a couple very attractive models pieced together so she didn't look quite like any of them she flirted her way into getting him both his sandwiches and the managers phone number which was promptly thrown into the trash can as she came back to the car with the bag of grease. She gave Declan his food not that he seemed to notice whining as he was about having to go to the mystic mart. Rolling her eyes Mika went up to her room and started in on her closet finding a cute pants suit to wear to go with Carter, and then she got online setting up some searches and automatic downloads of anything mentioning any of the victims. It would give her a ton of shit to comb through later, but the vague parameters should catch everything that had to do with the busty blondes. Next she went to the bathroom washed her face and then shifted subtly shifting one feature then another fitting them together. These kinds of things she liked wearing lots of different faces. No one would ever draw a line between her and them because they simply wouldn't be able to recognize her from one meeting to the next, except casually hanging out she didn't wear her own face very often while working. Pleased when she finally settled on a face she applied make up and an expensive perfume before getting dressed, even putting on heels though she rather hated then things. Running in them should be an Olympic sport. It's that hard. Taking on last glance in the mirror smiling at her own reflection Mika went down stair an odd odor causing her nose to wrinkle." What is that..." She trailed off coming around the corner to see Carter talking to Already who was holding a nasty looking head by its hair. Shaking her head she threw up her hand, "Never mind" She said laughter lurking her her voice. "I'm ready whenever you are Carter." She said flipping her hair over her shoulder and moving to perch on the arm of the couch the tall high heels already bugging her. When Mika appeared both men looked at her. Carter caught her nose wrinkling and laughed. "Don't tell me the cologne bothers you too?" He asked with a cocky grin. "Why don't you go put that thing on ice, huh? We don't want to get in shit with Clarice." Already nodded at the directive. There was no blood trailing from the head: it had been essentially completely exsanguinated, so there was no worry about mess on that front. The big guy went tromping off to the hotel's ice machine, and was soon out of view of the pair. Carter looked on, his expression somewhat worried, but it passed." I've got myself fake credentials." He said, whipping out an expensive looking leather wallet thing. It flipped open, showing a replica FBI badge and ID card. "We don't really have time to get one for you, but we should be able to work our way past that. Most guys in law enforcement - lucky for us, but sad otherwise - don't take women very seriously. I'm going to be Federal Agent Cash Money. The story is we've seen a similar pattern in two states west of here, so that's what makes this our jurisdiction." He said with confidence. This was something that Carter had done before. "Usually Walter and I do this, and he takes the lead. I'll be counting on you to lay the charm on heavy if I slip up." Carter said with a grin, not embarrassed at the prospect of needing to be saved. He had faith in Mika, and knew she'd be up to it. His phone buzzed. Carter fished it from his pocket, and checked the screen. "Excellent. Our ride's here. Ever ridden in a BMW? They areclassymachines." The young man replaced his phone and walked out to the front of the hotel, where there was indeed a BMW sedan waiting for them. It was, of course, a glossy black with tinted windows. A FAE male of the Summer Court was waiting, twirling keys around his index finger and whistling a jaunty tune. His name was McAllister, and he was on good terms with Carter and the group ever since they'd proved his innocence in the murder of another FAE. McAllister was good for a favor sometimes: Carter didn't like to push the FAE's gratitude. That never went well. Mika smirked at Carters observation and watched Already stalk away without speaking to her. She whipped her head away telling herself to think nothing of it though he hadn't answered her text and now wasn't even really acknowledging her. Whatever. Turner her attention back to Carter she nodded shrugged her shoulders lightly about not having crews for this job. "Don't worry, charming I can do and if anyone asks I'm a consultant hired by one of the other victims families working in conjuncture with the FBI to try to find and prosecute the murder." she said with a bright smile, as if to assure him that everything would be alright. She liked that he was so upfront about the idea of possibly making a mistake, but she was confident in him. Walter had him under his wing for a long time now, and she was sure he would do fine stepping out on his own. When asked about the car Mika smirked shaking her head lightly, "Not precisely." She remarked not really going into her checkered past. They stepped outside, and she saw the BMW sedan and lifted an eyebrow. "Impressive" She remarked. Catching sight of the summer FAE Mika smiled warmly in greeting. Weather he recognized her or not was a moot point Mika was friendly to everyone and if he didn't she was simply warm and personable. "Hmm." Carter nodded, not wanting to press things at Mika shook her head. He took the hint." Some lads have all the luck!" McAllister called, catching sight of the pair. He made as if to hug Carter, but then stopped himself. "Oh my! What sharp threads and what a fine young lady you've got yourself! I daresay the car's the worst looking part of this little package." The FAE said, winking flirtatiously at Mika. It seemed that he did not recognize her for who she was, but he was all smiles and kindness nonetheless, with a fair drop of masculine interest in a pretty young woman. "I tell you what, my fine son," McAllister continued, taking an appreciative glance from head to toe of Mika's new form, "I won't hold this favor against you, or even get mad when you come back and the car's ruined, if this fine young lady will agree to join me tonight for a drink at my pub." Carter chuckled uneasily. "That's, uh, that's Mika, McAllister." The FAE's eyebrow raised, and he rubbed his chin." Tsk. Suckered in by a pretty face. The lads'd really be making fun of me is they found that out. Keep it under your cap, eh?" The FAE said to Carter, fishing the keys out of a pocket and tossing them to the young chosen one. He looked Mika up and down once again, and let out a slow whistle. "Offer still stands, if you're interested, lass." Mika's grin showed pure amusement at McAllister antics. She gave a flirtatious smirk in response to the wink curious how long Carter would let the little charade stand. While he took advantage of her skills Mika always got the feeling that he didn't care for the lie of it all. She could understand that to a degree, but it was something you just get used to when you live as she does. The offer near caused the young woman to laugh allowed. She grinned a look of pure pleasure as she watched Carters discomfort confiding the was in fact someone McAllister had a mild familiarity with. She smirked lightly when McAllister asked the incident not be repeated to anyone yet made the offer once more. Without looking at Carter, she didn't need his permission after all, Mika lifted her chin a touch nodding in response. "Pick me up at eight." She said her voice a touch deeper then her own sultry and soft. She said it with a smile of pleasure that darkened her eyes just a shade before moving around the vehicle to slip into the passengers seat of the car. Mika wasted no time clipping her seat belt and relaxing back into the plush comfort of the seat though in the back of her mind she was sure Carter was going to give her a talking to for accepting the date. Te fact was while the decision had been impulsive it'd sounded fun. Like an evening to cut loose. She hadn't dated since joining up with the crew and McAllister seemed like he'd be fun, and it would gain them a better relationship with him so she could see no harm in it. Carter talked to McAllister for a minute or so more, and then he joined Mika in the car. He didn't say anything about her accepting the date. Maybe it was McAllister who got a talking to. The young guy started up the car and they were off. The car ride was smooth and luxurious, and Carter drove with obvious pleasure. Maybe he liked driving the BMW a little too much. Some guys were like that with cars. He parked the car at a police precinct near the university, and he sat in the driver's seat with a forlorn expression. "I don't want to leave this car." Carter said in a small voice, and then sighed. He unbuckled his seat belt and grabbed a chic black attaché case from the back seat. Then he gave his hair a check in the rearview mirror, and looked over to Mika. "Well, show time." The young man said, and got out of the car. His body language shifted immediately: every motion had an exaggerated confidence the bespoke arrogance and self-assurance. When he crossed the parking lot it was at a leisurely swagger, and as they passed a pair of beat cops off to their cruiser Carter caught a very obvious pair of faces with incredulous expressions directed his way. He walked up to the front desk, and made as he was about to lean on it, but then paused to inspect the surface. He found it wanting, and with a grimace stood up straight. "Hey, Duncan," Carter said to the man manning the front desk, whose name tag clearly read 'Phil,' "you want to get me the lead officer working the Uni girls case? Big fish here, Duncan, not a lot of time for this small pond." He sniffed disparagingly at Phil, who remained in his chair. Carter sighed, and pulled his fake credentials, flashing them. "Agent Cash Money, FBI, Duncan. Is this getting through? I've seen some glaze before, buddy, but you're a baker's dozen."" We don't even have that chain here." Phil murmured under his breath. But he turned and grabbed his phone, and dialed a number. After a few moments, he spoke into it, addressing someone called Borowski. After a bit of an exchange, Phil hung up. "Borowski's on his way. Step back from the desk. I don't want to breathe in that Axe shit you're wearing." The man said with a scowl. Carter rolled his eyes, and gave a mock salute gesture, moving off to the side. Eventually Borowski came over. He looked like he was affecting an appearance just as much as Carter was: he looked like stock character from a cop movie. He was dressed in a pinstripe shirt with the sleeves rolled up, suspenders, cheap slacks that really needed a good steam and press and even that might not get a crease back in them. The man was in his mid-forties, probably, maybe late forties. He was heavy set with a gut that hung over his waistband, but he had big, strong arms that let anyone know that he could bring it in a scrap. That, and the knuckles on his big hands. The guy needed a shave, too, and he scratched at what was probably several days' worth of stubble as he took the two in." So, what are you? Some frat boy yanking my chain?" Borowski asked." Aw, c'mon, you going to break my balls because I look this good?" Carter said with a smirk. He waved his badge in Borowski's face, but that didn't draw the cop's attention. "Look: I have to look into this because there are three state universities got the same damned pattern. Some servo's got it out for blondes with big titties, so that kicks this up into my world. You don't want me in here any more than I want to be here - and trust me, I'd love to get this one-and-done because the stench of stale doughnuts is starting to give me a migraine. So let me look at your files and you can get back to. . . Giving old ladies parking tickets or whatever it is you guys do, alright?" Bukowski closed his mouth and shook his head. Then he took a swing at Carter with a meaty left fist. It was a vicious haymaker that came hard and fast. Carter dodged it with a twist of his upper body and jerk of the neck. Then he stepped in a gave Borowski a tap on the jaw. It was a quick jab that made a 'smack' of flesh on flesh, but little else. The young man smirked and shook his head." Alright." Borowski said. "This way." He jerked his head towards the back of the precinct. "Who's she?" He asked with a nod to Mika." Consultant." Carter said dismissively, and made a show of wiping the hand that he'd struck Borowski with a kerchief. Borowski grunted, and led them to a file room. He went to a filing cabinet and pulled out half a dozen Manila folders." You'll have to do things old school: I can't be arsed to get you a guest pass for the computers. You know how to read, junior?" Borowski asked. Carter smirked and pulled out a slick smartphone." There's an app for that." He replied smugly. The cop shook his head, and walked out. Carter waited a few minutes, and then closed the door. They were, of course, under video surveillance. There were cameras in the room. He took a seat. "That went better than I thought it would." He remarked to Mika, opening one folder. Mika was particularly relieved when Carter made no mention her accepting the date. To her mind it was really none of his business, and she really didn't want to get into some kind of argument with him over something so silly. The car ride was smooth and pleasant. Carter was obviously enjoying himself, and it made Mika smile as she leaned back into the seat enjoying the luxurious comfort. It wasn't often they got to ride around in such style. When they arrived Carter's comment made her laugh lightly as she grabbed her bag a small designer looking purse as slid the slender strap over her shoulder as she got out of the car. Her heels clicked on the concrete, and she smiles watching the shift in his body language. He own shifted as well though it was more subtle than his. Her shoulders tilted back, and her head lifted, the natural sway to her hips was exaggerated just a touch and her smile took on a more pasted on appearance. Mika stood back watching as Carter systematically insulted the desk Sergeant, the precinct, the area itself and the man's intelligence. If she were able to she would have laughed. She'd have to figure out a reason to come along to these things more often. Who knew Carter could be funny. The detective came out a few minutes later and Mika watched with amusement as cater managed to piss the guy off enough to swing at him, but the guy didn't stand a chance. Carter moved easily catching him in the chin with a jab apparently gaining a measure of respect from the beefy man. Shaking her head lightly she flicked the brunette hair over her shoulder her gaze just touching the aging men when he asked who she was. Carter dismissed her as a consultant, and she narrowed her gaze just a touch as if to look mildly insulted. The man just grunted reminding her why people coined the term pig for cops as he leads them to the file room. A few more pointed comments later the door was closed, and they were alone with the files. She gave a smirk at his comment looking highly amused, "Who would have though you could be so much fun Carter." She remarked pulling a file towards her and flipping it open, "Does it always involve fisticuffs or was that just a little perk?" She teased pulling her phone from her bag and taking pictures of the pages that looked interesting so she could reread everything for something she might have missed later.

Love Between Monster Hunters (CH & LimitlessNikkie)|rating:4.0

Dwarves! Mages! Bandits!! [IC]

The doors open. This place spells the word "majestic". The chancellor stands up, waits for you and whatever company you might have to step forward, and then retakes his seat, a high throne of the kind of king or judge's seat. Ah! I was eagerly waiting for your appearance here, all together! How long ago was that request sent to you, I wonder! His skin frowns for a second, and you can deduct what he is thinking: "Ah, dwarves..."...oh, but it doesn't matter now that you are all here! he cheerfully adds. His enthusiasm, if not fake, looks somewhat old, deprived by age. You almost get a sense of competition about this place, coming from a realm where beauty of stone carving is king, and where nobody dares to criticize an architecture. Well, here, you feel the same. At home, in some way, but an odd one. Nobody here spoke to you, as if they thought you couldn't speak common. You got the sense that your stay here would be comfortable from its outlooks, but not exactly the same in its content, and with the more serious talk coming." So you were sent here for a dire task, I see. I regret indeed to hear the lost of your companions in the depths. They were known to me in some distant way, and I am sorry to know what problems this brings. For example, I am certain that our Apostle of the Oratory would feel quite stressful in his new environment, he who has never been away from home and... "High chancellor Pedal pauses and looks back at his guests, doubtful all of these details would interest them." Well, I guess it's now time for you to actually have some rest, after this long trek of yours. Let me confide you that I was all pleased to meet your kind today and that tomorrow will be an important day for all of us to talk. I am sure you will enjoy the talk better than your walk." His voice slowly turned impatient, probably after having a long day himself." So! Let's be done with it," he concluded, lifting his hands in the air and facing them up to the sky in sign of "adjourning the meeting". To you, this kind of attitude is only relevant because he is a human, and not because he is being rude. You know humans just enough to tell this kind of treatment is common with many of them. The only odd thing about it in such circumstances is that old men such as Chancellor Pedal usually had nothing better than indefinitely talking. The human spirits, even at older ages, is what you would still call "premature wisdom", often attributed to teenage dwarves. So, this change of mood had given you a bit of stress, but the thought of resting after your long trip wasn't a bad idea at all, either. After these words, you five, with Lord From Wise castle missing, are left on your own. The chancellor snaps his fingers speaks the name of "Della", and the servant comes standing by you, ready to guide you to your chambers. Through the back door, he withdraws from the room where two guards are standing. If this is only for today, what sort of day will you have tomorrow? SkjallodSkjallod stares after the human, nonplussed." Well that was enlightening,"he grunts, a hand going to his right side where he usually kept his Morningstar. He liked to run a thumb over it when deep in thought, but he had left it with his horse for this meeting." Gods know I wouldn't mind a rest, but he could have given us something to mull over in our sleep at least. I thought humans were supposed to be the impatient ones?" With an affirmative grunt to Shallow's comments, URL addresses the servant." Well, let's get a move on. Please, do show us to our chambers." Cracking his back and neck URL is looking forward to a long nights rest. They are, well most of them would seem so Dune dam Rodeo, son of Gregor, Administrative Counselor for The White Circle of Magicians lifted his head looking at the surroundings, and pondering. This place is quite... fascinating. It's almost like a replica of our throne room. Humans... and Dwarves...? On the other side, Dream Dwarf Turgor Tall mountain made a faint sound, gurgling. He seemed tired, or thoughtful, or none; maybe it was just a habit or rheumatism due to his old age. As Della came to stand by you, you indicated you were all ready to leave now, and so she initiated the walk outside the place, down the stairs, and at the bottom of the tower-like ambassadorial palace, where a room only lit by a simple candle, the size of a human house with ten beds, awaited for you. Then, you didn't hear a sound after Della closed the door behind yourselves, not pointing towards the bucket to explain its use, or any way out to elsewhere that could be interest. The stone-looking dwarf, Turgor, immediately went to sit on his bed, and then seemed to enter a meditating stance. Dunedam Rodeo, contrarily, looked at you all and immediately interjected, with his personal guard carefully paying attention to him: Don't you find it odd to deeply expect the company of six important people, but then having a guardsman go by what you would think is the sixth lord? I find that strange, somehow, that humans would pay so little attention to what seems to be a dire detail to my eyes. May I hear your personal wisdom on this, my dear noble kindred? URL takes a wary look around the room, his hand tightening on the haft of his axe. Would it be paranoia, to think that they have something nefarious planned for us this night? I think we should sleep in shifts. Urel moves to take a post by the door. Shallow"Sounds to me like they're either deeply embarrassed about something, or afraid,"suggests Shallow, scratching his chin." They don't want to deal with us, but why invite us, then? Something may have changed in the time between our invitation and our arrival." The Administrative Lord of the Magicians takes a deep breath, studying in detail the reflection of URL, and then lets a confirming "MMH" sound that express he has taken a decision: I think we shouldn't rush so badly into dire conclusions. After all, our important friend over there, says he's pointing Lord Tall mountain, is a fascinating mastermind. I think he would know if any of this was going bad. At first, I even thought about asking, but at this time now, I have no envy to do so. . Dune dam Rodeo sighs. I believe the best will be for us to regain good sleep, while my guardsman, who will require none of his wits tomorrow, he chuckles, will do fine as tonight's watch. The guard effectively prepares himself for the task. He first uses his helmet as a bucket seat, but it isn't very effective... After this, Lord Rodeo turns to his bed and threads in the dark until Shallow speaks. Oh, but knowing the humans quite a bit myself, contrarily to most dwarves, I suspect like you all, for receiving many wizards as masters of the arcane arts... I suspect that only the human foolishness and impulsivity are in cause. Also, I am quite certain by the looks of many servants that they have never seen dwarves before too... Lord Rodeo yawned. It wasn't small or delicate at all. Oh, but I'll be going to bed now. If you have any questions, just ask. Otherwise, I'm sure everything will go fine and that tomorrow will be a bright day. What do I say? A glorious day for us, dwarves! Hail to king Vulgar! On these patriotic words, the soldier stands up and shouts: "Hail to King Vulgar!", to which Lord Rodeo vehemently shushes... Spoiler Hide I'll be waiting for Leon to take action, whatever little it may be. Then, if nobody else has posted, I will fast-forward to the next scene. You all reach your bed. It is almost as hard as a rock. What a surprising creating dedicated to folks of the mountains! Nevertheless, you know you can and will sleep on these. And so the night slips away...Was what you drank? You didn't drink. Was it a sleeping spell, magic? You would have known. No, it was probably because of the fresh air, aside from that stinking odor in the corner; the air in the human realm is quite a pleasure to breathe. The free lands are lovely here, and even inside does it make you feel at ease, regardless of your troubles. Somebody knocks on the door. As you wake up, you get a greeting from the soldier who's been watching over the place all night... talk about a faithful dwarf, a real brother! Urgor the recluse, on the end of the room, is meditating this time on the floor. He looks like he's sleeping, and he grunts, something you mistake for snoring. Another knocking gets heard, followed by a soft"Hello and good morning to you, Dwarf Lords"said by Della." Hello? Hello!" Shallow is fastening a leather cauldron when Della knocks; he never went without his armor." Yes?"he barks in answer,"What is it, girl? Are we getting some answers?" Good morning... is the only answer you get back. It should be because it's time for everybody to get up... URL is sitting by the door, running a whetstone of the edge of his axe. He grunts a gruff"Good Morning."to the servant through the door. To the rest of his companions he mutters"Well, let's get this over with. We may finally get the answers we've been searching for... and hopefully they will have some palatable food in this place." On that note a loud rumbling sound can be heard emanating from URL's stomach. If you don't find food, you will fall exhausted soon enough for sure... alas, there is none! You all gear up and get ready for departure, at which point you expect to be taken to the kitchen, or outside with the chicken if it is necessary... All looking for a side track to get astray from the way back to the council room you all remembered, you are undisposed to enter when Della stops in front of the massive doors and beg you to enter. Even Dune dam give you a funny look that expresses his disgust, more than probably cleverly enough to make you crack and share a laugh together to higher your spirits before the long talk. Only Lord Turgor seem to be fine with the treatment, although he is last to come forth. You all enter this room 150 feet deep by 50 feet wide and just as high for the second time, a majestic kind of palace that looks much like your realm's throne room, with tall colonnades and delightful carvings. This implies mythic proportions, with many seats and guards to keep the place safe. It isn't underground, but it is made of real stone, built by the best. Dwarves, most likely, and it didn't make sense once more that your stay was so far so bad and yet presented such great affinity with your kind. This only made you come with more questions on top of your mind. And so you seat. All five of you, with Dune dam's companion by his side. All of your weapons are taken away, if you have any. Regardless if it makes you feel itchy, you do not protest.20 feet away from the 10 guests' right sided seats, the Chancellor arrives and seats in his higher siege. You all notice at some point that Lord Turgor has some food under his beard, which explains the scruffy noises that he makes. Dream dwarves... what a funny race! Adhella is gone. The room is silent. 30 well-equipped human soldiers stand on guard, with 10 around only Chancellor Pedal. If you weren't so brave, this kind of situation would make you feel insecure. But you are ambassadorial representatives of each of your factions, under the good standing of King Vulgar, one of the proudest Kings ever made. Nobody would have been more outraged than him if anything was attempted at some of his kin, and his reputation. Hence, the reception here on that very day, after all. Lord Dune dam Rodeo starts. He is probably the only one amongst you who would dare starting so strong, but you have the reassuring impression that he know what he is doing:"King Vulgar, son of the Throne of the Dwarves Realm, has summoned us to come and speak forth under his name and banner. We have crossed mountains, lands, and cities to answer his call and represent his legacy but yet, all that we believe as due customs in our home hasn't been duly followed. This conduct is considered as a demeaning diplomatic interaction to dwarves diplomatic, and even at your honorable standing should recognize this wrong. How can you explain yourself, high chancellor?" Chancellor Pedal lifts an eyebrow. He is surprised by the straightforward approach just as much as you are. You are almost sure he thinks he has underestimated you all for a second. My dear honorable friends, you shouldn't worry about your customs so much!, he says with a fake smile You are here, now, and it is our duty to make you feel properly at home, our own good way..." He stares at you and waits for your approval. *** In the meantime, in the forest of Wooden dale of the Human Realm, a young dwarves woman makes her way to a path she has never taken before. Her name is Dallas, and she is eager to know her fate after sneaking a piece of parchment off a powerful Lord. Stolen or found, that is a detail to her, hence her presence here. She notices some kind of scuff on a tree which she recognizes well. It's that of a tribe she and her kind despise most in her home realm: one of goblins and orcs. URL stands and levels an intense stare at Chancellor Pedal." We are the leaders of the arcane orders and representatives of all Dwarves kind. You have failed to treat us as such. Would you treat your fellow human ambassadors in this manner, or the Elves, or even the Halflings and Gnomes? I should think not." There is a rather long pause after this, Pedal exchanging your baleful staring back and forth between all of you. Turgor has stopped eating. You can tell by the silence of your other kindred that everyone is tense." Mh, have you not? ...how come! My best servants, the best suite that we have, the best food and our best musicians... how can this be explained..." Before you can do anything, Chancellor Pedal changes his face to that of a powerful monarch and summons Della by snapping his fingers and shouting her name. He leans sideways, crosses his legs, and puts his arm to rest on the opposite side of him. Spoiler Hide Because this brings up great suspicion in your mind, roll me a Sense Motive check The servant enters the room and rushes towards you. Trying to hide his confusion, URL glances back and forth between the servant and the Chancellor. Spoiler Hide Sense Motive (1d20-1)[2] SkjallodThe war mage bares his teeth and his hand goes for his Morningstar again, only for him to regret leaving it. Sense Motive: Spoiler Hide (1d20-1)[9] Spoiler Hide Dallas, saddest and aching spies the mark on a passing tree and sighs, thinking Even in this land, is there anywhere they won't defile? No doubt the humans let them push this far... Daley steers her pony away from the mark, hoping not to run into any patrols, let alone their encampment. A tribe of feral half wits is just what I need. Still, she reflexively checks her crossbow and rapier hanging in the saddle before moving on. Della comes and bows. She is aware of the situation, or so it seems. High Chancellor takes his time before he speaks. So? he asks her. Have you got anything to say? Della's surprise shows. She obviously is of not ambassadorial standing like you and so anything she says could go against her. Pedal reiterates: I will give our guests here the chance to express themselves right here in front of us. It is they, who after all have experienced our reception. They will tell you the impenetrable confusion of this situation. To this, Pedal changes his looks to a moderated friend, and he looked in your direction. Although I may understand that you got nothing of what I spoke, this has to be due to a terrible, horrid misunderstanding from our servant. This is heard with utmost sympathy by my person. But please tell in this room what you have received so that our servant may understand her fault. Chancellor Pedal lowered his head in sign of graceful abdication in front of you. ***As Dallas moves on, she notices a patrol, and quickly thereafter, their encampment. Spoiler Hide "Woah girl, slow it down" Dallas whispers in her mount's ear, ["This is bad news, Dusty, can you check something for me. I need you to check that orc camp ahead of us before we can proceed, I want to know what could chase us. Just don't let them see you." As Dallas is a speaking, barely more than a whisper, a previously unseen form melts through her clothing around her shoulders as dust and dirt, reforming perched on her shoulder. It shifts its colors to a brown/green, indicating it understands before sliding off and disappearing into the earth without a sound. Dallas hunches down into the root bole of a tree to better surgery her surroundings. Spoiler Hide How far away is this camp and the orcs? Dallas is going to hide whilst she looks and listens. Hide (1d20+1)[10] Listen (1d20+6)[12] I'll take 10 if I can though for 16 Spot (1d20+6)[15] Also take 10 for 16 Dusty, my familiar, is going to running earth glide underground, surfacing say...60ft from the edge of the camp (however long that takes) and will also do perception checks. I want it to surface so only it's eyes are above the ground. Listen (1d20+4)[8] Spot [/roll]1d20+3[/roll] This camp is not so big, but it's rather obvious. You would think that such evil creatures would hide, but apparently not on these lands. For sure, you are still at a distance from the capital city, but a straight way like this one would normally be used by merchants and important vassals. From your position, you can see a group of three with two kids. Their camp is made of primitive huts. Your spy slowly approaches and tells you there are only females. You can wait to see more or move around its north edge where the woods are thinner thus are easier to go past without being heard. Spoiler Hide you can take 20 on all "We have received only the minimalist of reception from you Chancellor. We were rushed of to some resting chamber. We haven't even been given' sustenance that we may adequately recover from our long journey. I say that this has been a poor showing all around." Urel pauses for a moment to think." Now that I think about it. I have even, most probably, committed mine own breach of diplomatic decorum." Dune dam whispered to himself "and so has our dream dwarf", just as if he would be taking notes with none around. You can see Della quickly raising an eyebrow and eyeing Pedal for a second. In response, Pedal catches your attention: Well, all of this is nonsense, my good dwarves lord friends! I have made certain amongst my people that everything goes in good hands. Now this is absolutely incredible. So I shall have something special organized here for you, and immediately. Della gets away even before Pedal snaps and then all of this funny story feels like it is past after all. Like you expect, more servants come about rushing with tables and plenty of baskets full of fruits and bread, and more varied foods. Once there is about enough for twenty people, the rush slowly stops to transform in a festive atmosphere with entertainment and music. Servants come to you to offer you food and drinks, whatever you choose to have. Only the dream dwarf doesn't start eating. The high chancellor starts again: So, I'm sure this is what you expected after all! While you enjoy, I shall continue with our diplomatic relations and start telling you about the information that you came for. So he explains how all could have happened. There are apparently numerous bandits on their lands and they crawl almost everywhere. So much that they are suspected to slowly reach other realms and spread their power. They are thieves, bandits, malefactors... "Scriveners!" as you recall Pedal calling them. Spoiler Hide Initiative rolls and a brief description on your food and drink consumption please. URL eats a moderate portion of bread, however he finds that e has a sweet tooth when it comes to fruit, and has, perhaps, more than he should. As for drink, in a very UN-dwarf-like attempt, URL passes on all alcohol and sticks with just water. InitiativeSpoiler Hide (1d20+5)[20] Spoiler Hide Hardly worth our attention, though I'd still rather avoid them and their clan mates. A dribbling orc charging me down is definitely not what I need. Dallas sent out the primitive command to fall back to her earthly companion. Its eyes receded below the ground, and it glided back to her. Once dusty had climbed back upon her shoulders she saddled up and headed away from the camp before looping back towards her goal. Come on girl, we don't want one of those primordial oafs on our backs, but neither do the nearby Humans. We should let them know. So from her way, that was a meter away from that goblin camp, Dallas goes up all the way around in the same direction of the camp, but in a strategic way that allows her to avoid the danger. At some point, she is almost sure she hears some of those beasts for afar, and so she stops, but then there is no sign of anyone after that. She understands it was farther away. Then, she takes her way back onto the main path and keeps going until she comes to a three-way. One clearly is the way you want and there is no mention the other. This sounds good enough to Dallas to continue on her way, but quickly again, she hears some more disturbance in the woods, some sort of rumbling followed by goblin speaking, this time being closer... Two goblins appear out of nowhere from a nearby (15 ft) bush and Dallas has just enough time to react before they reach the road and go past her towards the three-way. SkjallodSkjallod eyes the food suspiciously, but succumbs to hunger and wolves down a respectable amount of pretty much everything, washing it down with whatever travesty the humans dare to call ale in these parts. He mumbles his appreciation around a bite of cheese bread. Initiative:(1d20+1)[20] *Cutscene* The Great Sunder As you became satisfied and full of food, your pain waned, and your senses started getting much more at ease. For you who hadn't had a meal in a day, that felt quite refreshing. Only, there was no real surprise when your stomachs got irritated, but you don't remember what came first: the sound noise of a battle or that, which really was enough. The sun was up and bright, but your fate was darker. You invitation to this ambassadorial gathering had already gone sour, and now it was turning into a mess. The sun got hidden by a cloud, and it's at that moment that Lord Turgor started laughing awkwardly. A servant came to speak with your host the High Chancellor Pedal and returned, and then... Turgor, Blind Sear of the Grand Concordance of the Earth Dreamers, stood up laughing more, and choked, and fell dead. Everyone stood there staring in shock. Some rumbling and alarming disturbance got heard. In response, URL and Shallow darted behind their seat to find cover. The front doors banged open and then started a chaotic scene just as wild as a cavalry charge. Arrows fired in all directions, and you saw them getting close enough to you to know all of this was real. Masses of goblins started overwhelming the mighty room. Count? 20? 100? ...too many. Some bigger, or with different behaviors, or with finer traits than others stood amongst them. The guards did their duty to defend the place. "Watch out!" "Make a circle!" "Defend the High Counselor!" "All over here, quick!" "The Chancellor! Protect our Chancellor!" As the scene rapidly evolved, you were wondering about your way out. On the other end, the Chancellor was well covered and heading toward the back door, but as he made a preemptive move, out of his guards' shielding, to run towards the exit, he took an arrow. His frail body hit, he stumbled in the hands of one guard and cursed: "By the hands of Mahler!" CHAPTER 1: THE DIVIDE You have been caught. Yet, you are alive. How come, it's a bit hard to guess. Your body still ache from your brutal transportation. You are held in what appears to you to be an underground cell. It stinks in here, but that's a detail. It's better than having plenty of infected wounds. You two (URL and Shallow) are in the same cell. You know those goblins who captured you. They are the same as those living in your mountains. While on the other hand, there has been no sign of those so-called "Scriveners" around here so far. Your cell is only bars thus you can see the corridor that lies around you that cuts after roughly 15 feet on each side. There is a bucket-seat for your watch which isn't present. You have no possessions except from your underwear. URL, growing restless, begins checking the cell for a viable way out. SearchSpoiler Hide take 20 SkjallodSkjallod leaves the searching to URL and sits instead, silently fuming, and waits for a guard to appear, hopefully presenting him with some sort of opportunity. If there is anything to find, you missed it. Then, at the same time, it's a bit as if all of your hopes have been dashed. Yet, you two know something will come up, and that your fate would not end here. You wait, but nothing comes. It has been maybe a day you have waited and that nothing happens. Only some bugs have come to disturb your pitiful rest. Yet at some point, there is some light. A goblin shadow appears to your left, and you all think it's a dream at first, but it's not. Two goblins show up with a torch. They pass in front of your cell and go. There is some sandy dirt on the ground that you may wish to throw at them. URL stands up takes a five-foot step to the rear of the cell and casts magic missile. Goblin 1Spoiler Hide (1d4+1)[5] Goblin 2Spoiler Hide (1d4+1)[2] Shallow, to support his friend into the upfront assault, launches a few of his very effective missiles at the two goblins. Spoiler Hide (1d4+3)[5] (1d4+3)[5] The two die on the spot, fresh and bloody. They haven't been reachable for long, but now you two can share the adrenaline because they're laying right in front of you, immobile. You just need a way to get their keys, right? Speaking of which... URL can't see any on them. But maybe it's on them, regardless." I think I might have a way to move their bodies closer to here to inspect them, but I'm so deep in pain I don't know if I'll be able to cast more spells. Can you take care of this?" Spoiler Hide 33xp for these two goblins URL rushes to his pained comrade. Heal Check Spoiler Hide takes 20, with -1 for lack of wisdom While Shallow just told you he is suffering, his condition looks fine, and he is now telling you that he feels alright. You suspect he is referring to an absolutely normal condition Alec being hit on the head and left in a cell for days now. Even some food, which to your last memories wasn't even enough, did not give you two a complete chance to recover. Skjallod resists your attempt to check his vital signs at first but then lets you do it as he wouldn't know any better than you and that you might give him good insight on what to do. Unfortunately, the best treatment is probably to get out of your hole as soon as possible and finding some good rest. Say, Shallow. Do you think that you might try to bring those corpses a little closer, so I can check for keys and or weapons? Shallow, deep into his thoughts, looks at you like he missed what you were saying. Then, in the middle of your thoughts, he pressed himself against the bars and moved his hand instinctively as to touch his spell component pouch, which he doesn't have. For an unknown reason, he smiles."I thinks we're run'in o'luck!" Regardless, he starts gesticulating, and before you can realize, he is spell casting. The swift magic builds up within his hands and at the last second, Shallow uses the cell's bars as his required component. The bar slowly melts and Shallow makes a supreme mental effort to detach his building disk until it kind of fizzles. The magical energies suffer some kind of interruption but Shallow is inherently pushes his organic abilities to the maximum and is capable of pulling off his spell correctly. Yes! Can you read in Shallow's face while he tries to regain a bit of his composure? But while the spell worked, the powers are vanishing. You, too, know well that the missing spell component makes the spell stand on different, unstable energies. Skjallod, recovering faster than you would expect, makes another ultimate effort to use the disk to go beneath one goblin, bring it closer, and then to bring the second one. Shallow made it! As a result, he releases his concentration and leans back, making a long sigh of relief. He stares at you, obviously just as curious as you probably are to see if there is a key on those wretched bodies. There are clothing, parts of armor, and a purse on each. As you instinctively start searching for all that could look and feel like a key, you come to touch a metal piece under the chest of one. That's it! It's the key you've been eagerly expecting. You insert it in its door frame, and it turns, and you hear the happy sound of a"block". You are now free. URL steps out into the dungeon. He looks about for a better place to set Shallow. Alright first things first... pants. We are mages, we can wield he forces of creation and destruction. We don't need weapons, and we work better without armor, but we need pants. He says to no one in particular. SearchSpoiler Hide take 20 Shallow doesn't seem to realize what you are talking about and instead just helps you to try to find new equipment from the goblins. Pants there are, for sure, tied by a thick black goblin leather belt. These will look stretch on you but for your comfort, they will alright. Each belt has an open-ended sword sheet. You first find in the purse a gold, a metal stamp, a simple used metal ring, and two dices. The armor that they have are divided parts of armor. There are thick layers of leather that you can wear on your torso, a metal pads for the left tibia and shoulder, and an ugly leather helmet. Spoiler Hide Altogether, you can treat that armor rag just like the padded armor: +1 AC, Spell failure: 5%, Check Pen: 0 On his side, Shallow has found pretty much the same. Plus a torch that's still burning on the ground, even though you don't need it with your dark vision. Spoiler Hide -3.76 GP (2 gold, 17 silver, 6 copper) -Armor rags x2 -Dices -Stamp -Ring -Torch -Pants x2 -Belt with sword sheet x2 -Old scummy bread piece -Silver tooth Shallow comes to you with a smile. He shares with you his favorite treasure on his goblin: a silver tooth he ripped off the creature's mouth with brutal force, and then shows you the rest of the loot that was on it. URL puts on the pants and armor. Then he proceeds to try and force-feed the bread to Shallow. Shallow does just like you, putting some of the thick feathered layers on his chest that is two sizes two small for him. Then, you are avid to let Shallow eat the whole piece, but he insists that you have some as well in return. He adds that he means it well regardless that it's bad food. As a matter of fact, you both need that extra energy to continue. He inaudibly munches his share and offers you the other half. He doesn't mention anything about its taste. Then, he offers to keep the rest for you, either you have it or not and waits for you to guide him before he adds:"I think we should go quickly now. Right or left, it doesn't matter. You choose and I follow." Spoiler Hide Will save to resist not accepting his offer to eat your share if that's really what you want URL reluctantly takes the offered bread and chokes it down, strongly resisting the urge to regurgitate. Well I don't really matter which way we go, me thinks, but I have a rule... when in doubt go left. Shallow hesitates for a moment, then turns back to you to say what's on his mind:"Oh, URL, should we bring the torch with us or leave it here? I think it would be a disadvantage to remain unseen but that the use of fire could serve us well in many ways." [COLOR="DarkSlateGrey"Do what you think is best.[/COLOR] URL. Heads down the hallway to the left. Hoping that they don't run into too many patrols. CHAPTER 1: THE DIVIDE Part 1: The Escape Spoiler Hide 100 XP points awarded for making your way out of your cell. Shallow moves with you towards what you both hope is the exit. He has decided that he would bring the torch, probably because fire is one of his favorites. Albeit your weakness, you both feel the excitement of traveling through these murky tunnels. First, because you are now free. Second, simply because this place makes you feel at least a bit closer to home than if you had been stuck in that same room at the Chancellor's keep where you stayed one night. You two keep walking, very attentive for other noises, until you arrive at a separation. You have the choice to continue or split to your right. Skjallod chuckles irremediably behind you. He seems to find it funny that your implacable logic to go left never mentioned when it's not an option. The cave:Spoiler Hide *There is no actual light in this cave. Well, I vote we keep left, it hasn't let us down yet. Urel continues on his way. I hope we find our gear soon. It makes me sad inside to think about either humans or goblins in my stuff, wielding my weapons against me. Spoiler Hide what is to the left of right? There is nothing in your sight of vision and anything of interest on the walls. Shallow tells you that he's pretty sure those tunnels an only 10ft under the ground. These hideouts are common amongst goblins, and they're usually relatively small, with many options as exits, and no danger for traps: that is at least from inside. You and Shallow both continue your way until you come to a progressive curve to the right, at which point you start to hear some suspicious turbulence. There seem to be a patrol not far from where you are, and your verbosity climbs up your throat as you realize you'll be easily noticed if you don't blow out Shallow's torch. Regardless, it's hard to say if they're moving or not and how far away those noises were. Shhh... do you smell that? I think it's time to douse the torch. We might be close to our destination. Unnecessarily, Shallow hurries and extinguish the fire before the troops can appear. However, neither of you can see any goblin presence after a while. The sound persist, though. It seems to be some talking, and Shallow, who knows a bit more about languages than you do, pays careful attention to the imperceptible talk. He looks at you with a look that says there is nothing he understands. Well, let's keep on as quietly as we can. Maybe we can find a group of goblins to beat some answers out of. The darkness sort of reassures your steps while you advance silently closer to your enemies. You arrive by a conventional wooden barrel. You are no farther than 10 feet away from it and wonder why a barrel has been placed here. At this point, though you notice some shadows cast by a light farther down the tunnel. The reflection seems to show the forms of many things, including quite a few living. Skjallod stops and releases a silent grunt as soon as he notices the light and shadows. URL turns to Shallow and whispers, Shall we commence our sneaking upon them, or shall we try to assault them from here? At first, Shallow seems to pay attention to you, but he gets distracted by something he has on his mind. He closes up the barrel and looks at his feet. He brings his hands on his hips and keeps staring what you guess he spotted: a trap. Furthermore, he moves his body towards the bottom of the barrel and easily removes the tripping wire that would have taken you off guard by alerting the patrol. Then, Shallow moves forward, eyeing you while he tries to be as silent as possible. His action means that he opted for option number 1. It makes sense to you after all since the goblins probably don't expect you at all. You continue your way until the room is at reach of your dark vision. There are six of them. You wish you had some backup, but you quickly notice their weakness. They're not armed. At least, it means they don't carry any weapon on them. The weapon stack is 20 feet away from them, to the left. The room becomes wider by 50 feet (total 60) and forms a basic sphere. The tunnel continues straight on the other end. There are crates and a few barrels around. The goblins are standing around the fire in the middle, 4 are playing a game of dices and sticks, sitting. They seem to be enjoying themselves and the 2 others are also distracted talking and watching the others play. The weapon stack is 70 feet from your current position.

Dwarves! Mages! Bandits!! [IC]|rating:3.0

Art Becomes Life (Aeval & Corinthi)

Bernard Duval was going mad, and he'd never been happier. The French Painter had been obsessing over a singular piece for months. It consumed his every waking thought, tormented his dreams. Oh, it had started simply enough. A pastoral landscape scene, early morning, a light mist clinging delicately to the ground like a silken slip, with horses grazing in the background. Certainly nothing special. Just a view that had caught his eye and inflamed his inspiration. And yet, that alone would not be enough to merit this level of dedication, this devotion. No, his heart belonged entirely to Her. She had no name, he'd never seen her before, but she weighed heavily on his heart the way no mere mortal ever had. She'd begun as a humble splash of paint, an accidental slash of black marring the landscape. And yet, then black streak was curved, and brought to mind a woman's hair blowing in the wind. Rather than paint over the error, he incorporated, it, building a woman around that beautiful swathe of darkness. But the woman was moving. He didn't notice it at first, not consciously, but the splash of black had been deep in the background, far enough away to just be a detail in the landscape. But slowly gradually, she began moving closer. Never when he could see her, but each morning when he'd awake, he'd find her closer, ever so slightly closer. Of course, as she moved closer, he was forced to refine her, add more detail. She was so beautiful, and yet he hands trouble bringing out her beauty with his clumsy fingers and harsh brushes. But ever he tried, making her ever more beautiful as she approached, wondering what would ever happen on the day he finished her, if he could ever finish her. The raven haired siren was in the foreground of is painting now, having stopped to rub the nose of one of the horses. He'd never painted her that close to the steed, but there she was, acting with a mind of her own. It was maddening, and yet, he could not wait to see what his goddess of paint would do next. Things were so fuzzy...she was dreaming...things were blurry...she could smell the flowers, but she couldn't see them and the wind.was that the wind.on her face? She was so tired.she would just close her eyes some more. She opened her eyes.she was standing.in a field.she could see a long distance away.she thought.yes.it is a horse.a beautiful one. Wouldn't it be lovely to stand beside the horse and caress its mane! But she was so far back.it would take a lot of walking and her legs.they were so heavy.and she was so tired.again! Awake, again! The field more alive this time! The flowers bending to the wind's call! It was lovely- and she had very long black hair that the wind was playing with! But wait.there was something else...someone else.*she turned to look from side to side but could not see anyone*. I MUST get up closer.walk closer to see who this is... She knew her name.it was on her lips and came out easily : "Genevieve". She smiled when she whispered it. She walked very carefully, quietly closer to the foreground. She saw the horse she had spied earlier.what a beauty he was. Furthermore, she could not help but touch him and caress him, so soft was his coat. Furthermore, she placed her face close to his and nuzzled his nose. Furthermore, she smiled.it was cold and wet, but she could tell he enjoyed it as he whinnied quietly for her. Her eyes turned to the outside of her surroundings. What is that out there? There seems to be a rather large man staring at me. I wonder what he wants. I wonder why he doesn't come any closer? Genevieve stood there looking at him for the longest time as he stood and stared back at her. After a long while he left. What is out there? Can I step out there? Genevieve came as close as she dared to the end of the field. She was afraid to step any further-she bent down and picked up a flower--several flowers actually and threw them with abandon outside the field. They fell with joyful abandon! She stood there, looking out, not knowing exactly what to do- so .she waited for the man to come back. Perhaps, he would help her. Sleep was no release from obsession. In his dreams, Bernard could feel her calling for him, asking for his help, begging for him to breath life into her and release her from the painting's pigmented purgatory. He tossed and turned, tangling his bedclothes into a knot of Gordian proportions. The following morning he arose like he always did, taking his time with washing, dressing, and having some bread and cheese, all the while fighting the urge to return to his studio, for once he did, his day would once more be consumed entirely by the painting's siren song. And yet, he felt terribly relieved when he reached his sanctum sanatorium. So much of his soul felt tied up in that damnable painting that even a few hours away felt like years. Every time he is eyes could no longer focus and his hand shook too badly to continue, it felt as though he was failing her, betraying her with his human frailty, mortality. Perhaps then, she was no muse, no angel, but rather a succubus, draining his vitality to feed her otherworldly desires. If so, if she were feasting upon his soul, he gave it willingly, for he was so addicted to this smear of color that he would deny her nothing and give her all he could give. It was, naturally, quite a surprise to see flowers dropped in his studio. He didn't have any vases or the like, as his obsession made it difficult to remember to keep them watered, or even replace them when they withered. He knelt to pick them up, for while they were beautiful, they were unlike any real flower he'd ever sense. Bold colors swirling organically throughout their delicate petals. Sadly, both flowers just seemed to dissolve when he touched them, reverting to paint and staining the floor. He stared in disbelief at the two lines of green paint on his palm, then finally looked up at the painting. Bernard gave a little cry and stumbled back, falling over his stool and landing on his back. The woman was even closer, this time in a half crouch with her arm extended out toward him, palm out, as if she'd just thrown something. Say, perhaps a couple of flowers."Oh, god..." The madness was seizing him, there could be no doubt as he stared at her with his pulse roaring in his throat. And yet... her palm... her sweet palm. He'd never seen it before, thus never painted it. It was unfinished... imperfect. She deserved better, even if he were a madman. Bernard rose back to his feet, murmuring an apologetic and embarrassed, "I'm sorry, my lady." He righted his stool, mixed up some paints, and immediately got to work on correcting her. She watched as the man entered the room. He was tall and his features were outstanding- she thought for a moment and the word suddenly came to her: "handsome"...yes.that was it...he was handsome! It seemed these 'thoughts' were coming to her more often lately-when she wasn't sure how to say something or what it was, her mind would automatically search for the word or phrase and find it for her. Yes, this man was handsome and tall with goldfish hair. He didn't seem to dress very well, or perhaps he just didn't care what garments covered his body. It was interesting how careless he was of himself and yet, he was so meticulous in what he painted. He seemed to take particular care in the perfecting the perfect shade of red for a beautiful rose and the exquisite shade of cerulean blue for the sky. She watched him approach. He seemed far away in his thoughts. He came closer and saw the flowers she had thrown on the floor. She was ecstatic! Perhaps he would speak to her and invite her to sit down.but wait.what is he doing? He picked up the flowers and they have disintegrated? Why? She extends her hand to him-as if to beseech him to welcome her-entice her to sit with him to share things about themselves. He is coming closer to her.yes...yes dear sir! Come and beckon me from this place where I am trapped!! He is taking my hand .and.and.NO!!! Don't take your silly brushes to me! They tickle! And you change me each time you touch me!!! Can't you hear me!!!! She PULLS her hand away immediately and steps backwards, away from him. She doesn't want him to touch her with those colors again. It is ENOUGH! Doesn't he realize this!! "No!" Bernard dropped the brush in horror as the siren moved away. "Oh please... don't leave me." Before he could even register how insane he'd just go, actually seeing his angel move, he reached out, his hand plunging into the painting, causing ripples in the canvas like it were a thick liquid rather than cloth covered in oil paint. Seeing his hand disappear into the painting, only to be replaced with an oil rendition actually broke the painter's momentary shock. He yanked his hand away, eyes widening in horror. He rose, and backed away, looking down as he made a fist with his very real, yet slightly tingly extremity. "What... what in the name of all that's holy is happening to me?" Small flecks of paint were stuck to his skin here and there, but neither the hand nor the painting seemed any worse for wear. Blinking, he slowly crept back up the painting, heart thundering away inside his chest like a stallion galloping for the prize. Bernard swallowed and hesitantly reached back out to the paint, running his hand lightly over the painting's fluid surface, fingers leaving trails that shimmered and faded before his eyes in clear defiance of everything that he, as a man of letters had been taught. With a tightly held breath, he reached into the canvas, stretching a hand out toward his muse, his obsession. She watched him.and saw how her distancing herself distressed him! Was he that moved by her? His plea of "Don't leave me!" touched her heart. What was it that he saw in her, of her? What was it that he wanted from her? She walked closer.and was about to move again when he thrust his fist in....she turned and ran backwards! Would he grab her? But wait.isn't that what she wanted? Didn't she want him to take her out of her world into his?? She wasn't sure now.she had become afraid. Would she survive outside? For how long? She watched in awe as he touched the outside of her world- as if he was touching a glass window.she held her breath not knowing what he would do next.and then.in a flash! He thrust his hand in only this time, it beckoned her...begging her.asking her... This is what she had wanted.and so hesitantly ...she walked forward.closer to him. She could see his body very clearly--his entire body was 'outside' but his hand was clearly 'inside'... She walked slowly closer...until she was very near....she leaned toward his hand.and.kissed it... and backed away quickly! His siren was like a songbird with no voice, flittering about the painting, hesitant, frightened. Of course, she would be frightened. He was, after all, stark raving mad, and what lady wanted that? And yet, it was his devotion to her that make him this wretched shell of obsession, this melodramatic, maudlin artist. Penetrating the painting with his arm was a most singular sensation, as was watching the oil paint representation of said arm slide around the painting in response to his movements. Physically, the sensation was like mixing a full bucket of warm paint by hand, while spiritually it was... unimaginable. He watched, amazed as the muse crept ever closer, painted feet bare against the oil grass. She'd hitched up her dress slightly to be freer in her movements and giving him a glimpse of the perfect ankles... he hadn't ever touched brush to. And then, like the bird he'd compared her to earlier, she bent and pressed her soft, warm lips to his knuckles. The gesture was quick, wild, and she danced back after wards as if she knew just how improper it was. And yet, that tiny, chaste press of lips to skin was like a bolt of lightning on a dark night, a bright flash that, if you look hard enough, illuminates Heaven for a split second. The fingers of the kissed hand twitched, but he didn't grasp at her. One doesn't grab an angel, even if she teases so. "My muse... my angel. Please do not fear me. I would never hurt you." She watched him-he did not move quickly-he stayed where he was. His words:"My muse... my angel. Please do not fear me. I would never hurt you." Somehow she believed him. She did not think he would hurt her. He had taken well care of her up til now, and she somehow knew that her surroundings were, in part, due to him. She stood close to the edge of the 'outside'.standing on the edge.daring, waiting, hoping, fearing the 'beyond'. She looked out into his world. It did not frighten her, it actually looked quite comfortable and appealing. She would like to step there, if even for a moment. He caller her his 'muse'...when she thought of that word.a meaning did not come to her. She opened her mouth to speak..." What is a muse?" Those beautiful lips, the same which had so recently thrilled him, the same he'd spent weeks agonizing over, trying to get the red 'just right', they moved. She was speaking, honestly speaking to him, and he was certain the dulcet tones of her voice would be so very soothing. The mere whisper of her approval, or dare he wish for adoration, would lift his heart to the heavens. All the most frustrating then, that he couldn't hear a word. He stared at those magical lips, trying to deduce what she wanted, and while he could read the question in her eyes, he couldn't quite make out what she was actually trying to ask. "I'm sorry... I can't hear you. You... You can hear me though. I can tell." The nervous painter swallowed and wiped his feverish forehead with the back of his free arm, then licked his lips and said, "My name is Bernard. I'm an artist, or at least I try to be. You... You are one of my paintings. Somehow, you've come alive, and I don't understand why or how, but I know when I close my eyes to sleep, I dream of you. You've bewitched me since I first sketched you out in the field. I don't understand how any of this magic has happened, but I'm thankful it has, because it has brought us together. Or at least, has almost brought us together." She heard him speak and could understand him but alas, he could not understand or hear her! She watched as he wiped his forehead and moved his lips. Was he upset? She picked up her skirt and sat on the ground to listen to him. He was an artist. What was an artist? What was a painting? He confessed to having dreamed of her.what were dreams? Oh dear, this was more difficult than she imagined. She shook her head from side to side. She looked out at him. It would seem, there was nothing else to do. She would have to step 'outside'. She had no idea what would happen- if she would disappear- or dissolve- but she did not want to remain 'inside' any longer. Furthermore, she got up and walked to the edge of the 'inside'.she took her hand and raised it and very, very slowly - she stuck it 'outside'. Nothing happened! She didn't feel anything! She pulled it back in and it was fine! Furthermore, she stuck both her hands 'outside'. Again nothing happened. She smiled! Watching with wide eyes, Bernard could not help but be amazed to see oil turn into flesh and blood. It was said that a true artist poured his soul into a work, but for a painting to develop a soul, a life of its own? The delirium that had seized his faculties was too delicious to worry about. Sanity never held these sorts of wonders. "Amazing." Even seeing his own hand in the painting hand prepared him for hers coming out. Gripped by a sudden fey impulse, the painter lightly grasped her hand in his own and pressed his lips to her knuckles. Not unlike she'd kissed his hand earlier, but his was more of a gentleman's gesture and lingered a bit longer. He smiled, only lightly holding onto her delicate hand, "It is a pleasure to meet you, my lady. Would you care to join me for a glass of wine?" Bernard took a half step back to give her plenty of room while still allowing him to maintain contact with her hands. Her hands felt ‘different’ when they were ‘outside’. It was cooler than being ‘inside’. The air that was on the ‘outside’ was more vibrant, more alive. She watched him as she had put her 2 hands out. He was surprised and delighted! He came close and took her hand and put his lips to her hand as she had done. His lips tickled on her skin and she laughed! How pleasant it was to feel the cool moisture of his mouth on her hand, and he stepped back-that was thoughtful of him – to give her space. Certainly here is someone she would enjoy sitting with. She looked around-how solitary it would be to spend her life ‘inside’. He could.what was the word he used- ‘paint’ her another like herself so she would not be so alone, but-she looked out at him-why ask for another when he was right in front of her? She felt no discomfort in sticking both her hands outside-why not take the risk and go all the way? Walk to the ‘outside’? She hesitated for a moment and just walked out-head, body, leg and feet all at once! She stepped out and suddenly fell to the ground-not dissolving but fainting from the ‘change’ her body went through to be immersed in one instant to the ‘outside’. Furthermore, she... she was coming. Bernard just stared, mouth agape as her bare foot broke the painting's surface, changing from paint to perfect, pale flesh before his very eyes. Although some might consider it perverse or degenerate, the painter was struck by the powerful desire to kiss that perfect foot, to nibble her undoubtedly soft skin, to suckle her toes like a man possessed. But more than a foot was coming out of that painting. Every inch of her emerging from the canvas was a miracle. The gleam of her skin, the silk of her dress, the locks of her hair, the sly curve of her smile, and even the light of her eyes. Bernard was ready to fall to his knees and profess his love when the unthinkable happened. The light in her eyes faded, and she fell to the floor before he could even catch her. The noise that issued forth from Bernard's lips wasn't any sort of recognizable word, and yet anyone who heard him, regardless of race or creed would have recognized the sound as both shock and horror. He fell to his knees and reached out for her, only to pause, finger frozen in space a centimeter from her skin. When he'd touched the flower, it had disintegrated back into the paint from which it had formed. But this was different. She was real. While her dress had that unnatural look the flowers had, she was clearly a living, perfect woman... and he couldn't do anything. Carefully, lightly, he touched his fingertip to her knuckle, just where he'd kissed her before. Nothing. Well nothing bad, in any case. Her skin was warm, elastic, soft, just as he'd imagined. He slid one arm under her head to cradle it up off the floor. He leaned over, listening to her breath and praying aloud, "Please... please God. I know creating life is your dominion, but don't punish her for my hubris." Bernard didn't notice how her beautiful dress was starting to fall apart where ever he was touching it, reverting to paint. He wasn't having that affect on her, but the dress was another matter. Genevieve lay there-she felt so heavy- it was almost hard for her to breath. She heard the man's cry of dismay-she could 'hear' him around her, but she could not move or speak or open her eyes-not yet. How strange it was-how strange it felt. The coldness of the air on the 'outside' struck her- and even the 'force' of the air- as if thousands and thousands of small pellets were hitting her. They did not hurt, but they were a 'heaviness' she had not experienced on the 'inside'. She heard him near her-next to her. She felt something small and hard touch her skin near her hand-then she felt something warm under her neck- it felt so pleasant-tender, soft-the word 'caring' came to her mind. Furthermore, she was not alone-he was there-watching her-caring for her. What a pleasant feeling to have another minister to your needs. She was feeling colder-this air was flying around her-as if her skin was bare to this new air-what of her dress? Why was it not protecting her? Her eyes fluttered open-slowly- she looked into his face-she saw concern and worry there-she tried to speak.she opened her mouth.but nothing came out.she tried again...she was too weak to get up- to even move--she did not know what was happening to her-her heart started beating fast--her eyes-she felt liquid in them.so much.it seeped out and spilled down her cheek. She was alive, but Bernard couldn't bring himself to rejoice, not yet. Something was wrong. She'd been hurt. His entire body went cold as he noticed bright, crimson blood on his hands. Looking down at her body, he realized it wasn't blood, but rather her dress, her beautiful dress, which was melting. And if the dress was melting, how long until she began to melt as well. Were those tears, or pigment?" No... No... please. You can't die. No." Desperately, he slipped his arms underneath her and hefted her off the ground, chunks of her dress falling away and splatting onto the floor below. He turned and carried her back to the painting, leaning to slip her back in, beautiful feet first. It pained him to see how easily her body was accepted back into the image, feet turning back into pigment almost the instant they touched. "Hold on my angel. I will return you home." He lifted her up gently in his arms-his fear for her life, so evident in his face-in his voice-in his urgency. She wanted to convey to him to just warm her-set her by the fire-hold her until her body could get used to this 'outside' world, temperature- surroundings. But things were moving too fast! HE was moving too fast! He wasn't thinking. He lifted her up and brought her immediately to her world-the 'inside' thinking that is what she wanted, THAT is what she needed! She knew she neither wanted nor needed that! He called her 'angel'. What a sweet term. He placed her near the big picture.he put her feet inside first.all of a sudden energy surged through her body! Her eyes fluttered.her hands flew to his shoulders-she gripped his shoulders tightly-she was able to whisper."NO!" No? Bernard was terribly confused. She seems empowered by returning even just her feet to the painting, and she wanted him to stop? Her body, and yes, it was her body he was carrying now, the dress little more than a thick coating of paint clinging to her skin, was both heavy and growing slippery, yet, she'd grabbed him and gave him an order. He could deny her nothing, and if she didn't want to go home, he would not make her. So, sincerely hoping she knew what she was doing, he eased her back away from the canvas. Afraid he'd drop her, Bernard kicked away the stool and knelt back to his knees, and laid her gently down onto the studio floor, heedless of the spilled paint, as she was already covered in it. He swallowed and laid beside her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders and holding her close to his chest so that she might hear the beating of his heart and take strength from it. He pressed his lips to her cheek, tasting the saltiness of her tears before saying, "I am sorry. I did not know this would be so hard for you. This has never happened before, so far as I know. If there is anything you need, anything you desire. I am your servant." He had listened to her! He was carrying her away from the 'inside'.he placed her on the floor.it was so hard.but he was there.to cushion her.to keep her warm.she sighed...and closed her eyes for a minute. It felt so good to be so close to him-his smell.so overpowering it made her dizzy! His scent so foreign to her-he smelled clean and strong and something like pine.she could hear the beating of his heart...so comforting. His face came close to hers and his lips kissed her cheek...this was how affection was shown.he cared for her.he said he was her servant...she had so many questions.but she was tired.so very tired.... Her arms went around him.her eyes closing she whispered..."cold.....tired"..... "Of course... of course you are." It made so much sense. She'd just been born. The ruins of her dress were like coating of flesh and blood about a newborn babe. Of course, no baby was as beautiful as the woman in his arms, the opinions of moonstruck mothers not withstanding. He nodded and kissed her softly upon the lips." Leave everything to me, my princess." He carefully gathered her back into his arms and rose back to his feet. He carried her out of the studio and to his bedroom, and thus his bed. She was laid carefully onto the soft mattress, instantly ruining his sheets, but Bernard was a man in love and couldn't care less. In fact, he crawled right in with her and pulled the blankets over them both. Were she not so cold and tired, he'd take a hot bath drawn, that would have to wait until she had more strength." Sleep, my love. I will guard you and keep you warm." Again, he embraced her and held her tightly to him. The scene was deeply indecent, but he was still fully dressed, thus not, in his mind, taking unfair advantage. Her eyes closed, yet she was not in slumber-she felt his soft warm lips on hers. She sighed.she felt as if she were floating-so free-wrapped in a cocoon of tenderness. If she never woke, she would never regret anything. She was floating-through the air-moving- held-carried- so gently-tenderly-lovingly- something soft under her-material cold to her skin-so cold-she shivered-then quickly he was next to her-his body warm--something on top of her-not so heavy-warm- not like him- but warm... She heard: "Sleep my love. I will guard you and keep you warm." He pulled her close to him-so good-near him-she sighed-yes- good-warm- loved...sleep--tired... Her mind was drifting-without realizing it she spoke: "love".... She loved him. Bernard couldn't be happier as he laid in his bed, holding his sticky, oil covered love close to his chest. It was a strange feeling, having basically created and given birth to the love of his life, but he was ecstatic nevertheless. His fingers gently traced patterns across her painted back as he tried to simply warm and comfort her as she rested. Hours later, she'd fallen into a deep sleep, and the paint had begun the process of drying. Reluctantly, Bernard slipped out of bed and warmed some water as quietly as he could. Returning with a set of rags, he pealed back the covers and began washing her, gently scrubbing the oil from her skin with the warm, damp cloth. The artist was concerned as to what the paint might do to her if it sat to long, but even though he was washing her for the best of reasons, he couldn't keep from feeling thrilled as more and more of her pale, perfect skin was revealed to his greedy and adoring gaze. He was trying to focus on 'safe areas' first, but eventually he'd need to move her off the soiled sheets, and wash her breasts. Thankfully, there didn't seem to be much built up on her inner thighs or sacred valley, just because of how the dress had fallen, but even those areas would need a gentle cleaning. Bernard didn't want to embarrass or take advantage of her, so he mulled over this dilemma while gently caressing her stomach with his warm rag. She was in a far off place-quiet and dark. She felt warmed-something next to her-soft but strong. Furthermore, she tried to recall what happened-where she was, but none of that was important. No thoughts or sounds-she could not open her eyes-no need-so tired... Something woke her-in her mind! Something touched her-wet against her skin and the air was cold blowing on her. Her mind awoke, a little bit at a time. She remembered being 'inside' and seeing him each day. He called her his muse, angel, love. He put his fist 'inside' but did not walk in-then she walked 'outside'-she remembered now! The 'outside' was so different -had drained her. She had fallen-he laid with her then sheltered her, carried her, he said he would protect her. Who was he? What did he want? What did she want? Could she ever go back? Did she want to go back? Her mind had awoken almost fully and her senses were awakening as well. She heard the swish of something-the cool air blowing whenever the soft thing was lifted from her body and put back. She could hear his breathing sometimes near her, sometimes far away - and the water droplets that touched her body-now her stomach-they tickled her! Furthermore, she felt that! Slowly her eyes fluttered open...her hand went to grasp his wrist-she smiled and laughed- a soft tingling sound like chimes ringing in the wind. "Oh, you're awake." Bernard smiled at her, cheek a little red at the slightly conspicuous situation they found themselves in. "Your dress." he started to explain, "It returned to the paint from which it came and covered you. It's... it's not good to leave the paint on your skin for a long time. Your skin needs air. I was just trying to clean your off while you slept, but now that you are awake, I could draw you a bath. I don't mean to take advantage." With a smile, he sat a hand onto the one gripping his wrist. "How are you feeling, my muse? You look refreshed from your brief rest. You look amazing, even with the paint." He gently squeezed her hand, then shook his head, "You must think me mad, the way I keep babbling on. I... I've just been longing for a chance to speak with you for so long. Wishing... wishing you were real." She smiles at him and listens to his talking non-stop. His face turns a light shade of red-her hand goes up to touch his cheeks. She runs her finger over his lips-her fingers run over his face-his nose, his eyes-his hair-this 'touching' - to feel these different textures on her hand-her fingers- it is strange but pleasant. She looks at his hand covering hers. His hand is so much larger than her small hand. There are so many differences between them-their skin color, hair length, skin texture, his voice is deeper-she wonders what else is different? She looks up at him-she heard the word 'muse'.she did not know what it was. She coughs a little for her voice has not been used very much." Muse?" She looks at him with curious eyes waiting for him to explain. His eyes flickered closed as she touched him, her gentle explorations almost too exciting and wonderful to bear. She could touch him all day and night if she wished, and he'd never get tired of it." A muse," Bernard began to answer, "Is a spirit of inspiration. In ancient stories, they were goddesses would whisper into the ear of their favored mortals, divinely inspiring them to create wondrous pieces of art." He placed a hand over his heart, "I am an artist, a painter by trade, and for nearly two months, painting you has consumed my life, my every waking moment. You are surely my muse, brought to life through means I cannot explain and will never question." He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it firmly. "I am so happy to have you here with me, my angel. I cannot even begin to find the words to say how amazing this is." He painted her? What did that mean? What did 'bringing to life' mean? He brought her hand to his lips- it was a pleasant feeling. Could she bring her lips to his? Did she dare to try? She knew nothing of restraint except what she imposed on herself. So she slowly sat up and moved closer to his body-she brought her face close to his-first she ran her finger over his mouth again--then she slowly moved her lips to his, and she kept her lips there for a moment-her eyes closed of their own accord. It was strange-she felt a fluttering in her stomach-she opened her eyes and looked into his eyes in wonder and amazement. Bernard's rational mind drifted back to his earlier concerns about her being a succubus, which should probably say a lot for just how strange this all seemed. A beautiful woman had crawled out of his painting, into his arms, into his bed, and now naked, save for a coating of rich oil paint, was now kissing him. It was a dream come true, he just wasn't certain as to what sort of dream. Would he wake up, his studio empty save for the stink of lonely desperation? Would this turn into a nightmare? Or would this be a dream come true? Who could say? All he knew is that he would see it through to the end. After the kiss, which was glorious, despite the concerns of his overactive mind, Bernard blushed a bit, his lightly stumbled cheeks turning red. "Thank you." A simple thank you couldn't really describe how much he appreciated her chaste kiss, but it was all he could think of. After a moment, he smiled and cocked his head to the side, "We should clean you off. I'm sure you'd enjoy getting all of that paint off your body. Shall I start drawing you a hot bath?" She pulled away slowly from the kiss and sighed.she slowly opened her eyes.it was a pleasant experience. His cheeks were turning red again-she touched his face. He appeared to enjoy the kiss as she had. She looked around the room. There was a very large window and light was coming inside. She was curious -where did the light come from. She tilted her head back and looked at the ceiling-she put her hand up as if to touch it- but she could not reach it... He was talking to her.asking her if she wanted him to draw her a bath.did he mean like he drew her? She didn't understand.she looked at him quizzically-"Painting --bath?" She asked him. There was so much to see, experience, taste, touch, feel--what a wonderful place this was! She was so innocent. Just the way she was regarding her surrounding brought to mind a newborn babe, although her supple form brought many other shameful things to mind. Bernard had no intentions of taking advantage of her innocence, although the desire was indeed there." A bath is where we wash our bodies with hot water and soap." He lifted the water pail and tap it's side, "This is a bucket, inside is warm, soapy water." He showed her that by wetting his rag and rubbing it over her belly again, "This is washing. Now, in a proper back, we use that much larger tub," he pointed to a copper tub sitting under the window. "I'll fill the tub with hot water, which can take some time, then you will climb into the tub and kneel in the water to bathe easier. Of course, before you get into the water, I'll try to remove as much paint as I can from your skin." He reached over and ran the rag firmly down her ribs, scraping off a good deal of paint. He rubbed the cloth over her belly and she laughed.she pulled it away from him and rubbed it over his belly! Furthermore, he had cloth on and was not bare skinned as she, but it made her happy! He pointed to a big basin under the window...as he ran the rag down her ribs she edged off the bed throwing her legs over the edge and onto the floor...she stood up, but unfortunately her legs were not quite strong enough to support her, and she collapsed her leg buckling under her. She cried out.and then a moment later she began giggling and laughing. It was so wonderful to behaving all these different experiences!Bernard-that was what he called himself- immediately lowered himself to help her. He reached out and took her arms to help her up. She stood.a little wobbly- but she stood. She pointed to the tub.he helped her walk to it- but first-the window caught her attention. Furthermore, she pressed her face against it--she could see people outside. Furthermore, she put her hand on the window then she rapped her hand on the window-she wanted them to see her--What had he called her?? Muse! She opened her mouth rapping on the window and calling out with her singsong voice:"Muse! Muse!" The people down below turned and look. Some were actually ill-mannered enough to point. Thankfully, the glass was foggy enough and her torso was still largely covered in red paint, so the scene wasn't as scandalous at it could be. Still, Bernard blushed a bit and shook his head, "Oh no... no, my dear. You shouldn't..." He wrestled with his words, trying to decide how to explain, then said, "You need to bathe and get some clothes before you meet other people." He pulled at his shirt, "Clothes... like the dress you were wearing that turned to paint, except preferably without the turning to paint element."" Please." He took her hand, "Let me help you get clean, my love. I promise you will feel so much better when we get this paint off you." He gently tried to lead her back to the tub and a step away from the window. He spoke to her-it seemed he didn't approve of her being by the window.he said 'no' and something about clothes.he took her hand and pulled her gently-she liked that! She liked when he touched her-his hand was so warm on hers-so unlike when she was on the 'inside' there was no warmth- and when he touched her-wherever he touched her-his warmth did not just permeate the exact place he touched, but it radiated inside her and then spread out into other parts of her body. It was almost like a tickle, but not quite. She looked down at his hand- it was big- but it was gentle. He had been gentle when he took the cloth with the water and used it on her. She looked at the big basin. It was empty. He left her hand to go get some other big basin. When his back was turned she walked out the door. It led into a very long room. She followed it. There was another door. The door was all glass and outside the door there were flowers and trees just like where she came from! She tried to walk through the door but could not. She stood looking at it- she put her hand on it- like she did in his picture-expecting her hand to go through it- but it did not. Furthermore, she started to hit the glass with her hand--she hit it so hard-her hand went through-only this time something else happened. Furthermore, she yelled and pulled her hand back -cradling it- and sat down crying-large red drops fell from her hand and for the first time-she experienced "pain". Bernard returned with the bucket of warm water, only to find her gone. His heart quickened, looking down at the floor for flesh toned paint and seeing a set of crimson footprints leading away, out his door. Just then there was the sound of shattering glass, and an inarticulate exclamation of pain. He dropped the bucket into the tub and ran out to find her."Oh, god." Bernard dropped to his knees beside her. "You've hurt yourself. I shouldn't have left you alone. Here... let me see." He gently, but firmly pulled out her hand to give it a looked, paling visibly at all the blood. He swallowed and pulled off his tunic, revealing a fairly lean chest with a light covering of dark hair. Not seeing any glass still in the cut her wrapped her hand tightly, "This will help stop the bleeding." Like the night before, he scooped her up into his arms, this time because he was afraid she'd step on broken glass. "You need to learn to be a bit more careful, my love. Unlike your painting, there are things in this world that can hurt you." He kissed her tear stained cheek as he carried her back into his apartment. She was so wrapped up in her pain that she did not hear him running-she only realized he was there when he began talking to her. She stared at him with such large eyes. The 'pain' invaded her mind and overtook her senses. He pulled her hand to him-then he took off his shirt to wrap her hand, and he picked her up again. His chest was naked as her body was-it was the first time she felt her her skin touch his, besides their hands touching. Her cheek nestled against his chest and her bare arm and part of her naked side touched his chest. She closed her eyes- it was a nice, warm sensation. His 'warmth' overtook the 'pain' she was feeling. She sighed as he carried her back to his room. She was tired again-so many new sounds, smells, sights. But she didn't want to miss anything. She opened her eyes unwilling to rest or to miss out on something. She rubbed her cheek on his chest-she giggled as his chest hair tickled her, the pain almost forgotten. Bernard couldn't help it, the way she was rubbing against him was arousing. His nipples had grown firm by the time he knelt and carefully sat her into the copper tub, which still only had a few inches of water. He swallowed as he released her and head her wounded hand up in the air. "Stay... Stay right here and keep you hand up. It'll help with the bleeding. I'll be right back." Hurrying, Bernard locked the door, then went to retrieve some bandages and get the next bucket of warm water. Where he returned, he was almost surprise to see her still there. With a smile, he knelt back beside her and leaned in to give her a quick kiss on the lips. "Good girl." After carefully removing the shirt from her hand, he skillfully rinsed it with a bit of water, then wrapped it tightly in gaze he had for times when he'd cut himself stretching canvases. "There we go. All bandaged up. It'll take some time for that to heal, so be careful and keep it out of the water. Speaking of." He picked up the fresh bucket of water and began pouring the warm liquid over her shoulder, "Let's try to get you clean." He sat her inside the basin-in the water, and he held her cut hand in the air.she moved her good hand around in the water.it felt funny moving around her. It was strange to her to move her hand around something that moved with her. He came back and seemed pleased to see her in the same place and position he put her. He moved his face close to hers-his lips touched hers.she liked that when he did that. She smiled at him. He put some kind of cloth over her cut hand- it covered the red liquid that came out. Then he took the bucket and poured water down her shoulder.she jumped! The liquid flowed down her chest- it happened so quickly. She wasn't sure if she liked it or not. She took her hand and took some of the water and splashed it at him-she laughed when she did it. Furthermore, she splashed it on his face and HE was the one taken by surprise! Then, because his face looked so funny from the water on it, she leaned out from the tub and kissed his lips as he had done to her. She repeated what he had said to her:"There we go." and she smiled at him- a smile of innocence and pride as if she had done something very good. At first, he was a little taken about and upset that a grown woman would splash him in the face with a handful of water, but then his angel kissed him, and all that anger just faded away, replaced with a sort of breathless joy that turned into laughter at her 'There we go.' He shook his head with a smile and a bit of color to his cheeks. "If I wasn't already hopelessly in love with you, that would have sealed it." He stroked her hair with a soft touch and kissed her forehead, then said, "Let's try to get you clean." He picked up a cloth and began washing the paint from her body. "I think you'll feel a lot better when we get all of this off you. Ahh, ahh..." He caught the wrist of her wounded hand before she could splash the water with it and sat it on the side of the basin. "Don't get your bandage wet, my love." He pointed to her other hand, then put it in the water, "Use this hand if you want to splash." He swallowed as he began to wash her chest and neck, the cloth moving down over her oh so perfect breasts. Furthermore, he was smitten by her image, loved her body covered in paint, but as her bare skin was stealing his breath away and leaving his mouth dry. Furthermore, he seemed pleased with the kiss she gave him-she liked to please him. He was able to read her mind and stopped her from putting her cut hand in the water. Instead, he put her good hand in the water and gave his approval for her to splash more if she liked. He took the cloth and rubbed her chest and over her breasts. She closed her eyes and sighed when he did that-the friction of the cloth on her sensitive nipples was very pleasant. She opened her eyes and wanted to return what he did. Furthermore, she took her good hand and began to rub his chest as he had done to her. The hair on his chest tickled the skin on the inner palm of her hand and the more she rubbed his chest, the more she giggled. Again she was playing with his chest and nipples in a most distracting fashion, her childish exploration evoking decidedly more mature thoughts in Bernard. He'd always had sensitive nipples and no lover had ever given this sort of attention to them, and she wasn't even trying to arouse him. At least, he didn't believe she was. There was still the succubus possibility. He smiled and gave her shoulder a gentle kiss, "Stay still, my love." He slipped behind her and began scrubbing her back, cleansing her of the drying oil paint. Thankfully, her back didn't have much paint, and her hair had come through largely unscathed, so he wouldn't have to clean it today. Moving back to her front, he reached into the water, took her ankle, and lifted her leg out of the water, perching her foot on the metal rim as he washed first one leg, then the other. He swallowed as his hands began caressing her thighs, coming so close to her innocent, untouched sex. The water was so pleasant, and it was exciting and wonderful to have her body washed. The water trickled down and tickled her as it touched her skin in different places. He pulled her ankle and she laughed-stretching her leg out-she had never done that before, and it felt very strange! As he washed her leg and climbed higher on the inside she felt little shots of excitement shoot up her leg to the placed covered by hair in between both her legs. She voiced and "oh!" as his hand neared there. At one point her uncut hand instinctively placed itself on top of his-almost to stop him from going any further. She didn't know why. Bernard smiled and drew his hands back. "Alright, it's alright. Too intimate, I understand." He nodded and pointed to that area, "You can go ahead and wash there on your own, my dear." He sort of pantomimed the washing motion for her, feeling perhaps a tad ridiculous. Then he began to rinse her legs, gently trying to sooth her with calm motions. He hadn't meant to make her feel uncomfortable, and felt at though he'd crossed a like. He pulled his hand away and she removed hers. She said few words, but somehow she was able to communicate with him and he understood. It was as if they had known each other for a very long time and words were not really needed. He continued to wash her legs-his circular motion with his hand on her legs was very soothing-her eyes closed, and she began humming a song-she knew not from where. Her mind floated in pleasant colors and pleasant feelings, in pleasant sounds and pleasant senses. Her lips formed a contented smile-she was so happy she had taken the courage to step to the 'outside'. He stopped washing her legs and she opened her eyes. She smiled at him-she wanted to do something for him as well. She took the cloth from his hand-she knelt in the water and moved closer to him. Furthermore, she used the cloth on him on his chest as he had on her-She liked playing with the water and washing him. Furthermore, she liked doing things as well as having things done to her and for her. When she was finished-she gave him the cloth and kissed his lips. He was certain his innocent princess had no idea of what she was doing to him, and while it was difficult to restrain himself, he did. He'd already pushed her limits and didn't want to take advantage anymore. Furthermore, he rose to his feet and helped her up to her feet as well. "One last quick wash and rinse, and we're done, my darling." He walked around her, getting any last little bits his missed, then giving her one last rinse before helping her out of the tub and beginning to pat her dry with a soft towel." Are you hungry, my love?" Bernard asked, patting his own stomach, then hers. "Or would you like something to drink? Water, wine?" He wasn't sure what she'd need next, other than a dressing gown. They were finished playing in the water, and she was a bit glad as the water had become cold-there were little bumps standing on her skin and she thought it was funny. He helped her out of the tub and took a cloth and lightly touched her all over. Then he asked if she was hungry....she didn't know what that was. He touched the middle of his body and did the same with her." My love? Hongry? Wata? Win?" She looked at him quizzically- she had no idea what those things were. All she knew was she was cold. She pulled his hand and took him and her to the bed.she got in and pulled the blankets over her and kept pulling his hand to come in- he kept her warm, and she was cold. She wrapped her arms around her and made a sound to show she was cold-she hoped he understood! Bernard nodded as she pulled him back to the bed. He could see goosebumps all over her body and considered simply getting her a gown, but there was a beautiful naked woman asking him to get into bed with her. How could he possibly refuse? He quickly took off his pants and socks, leaving on a simple pair of breeches, then climbed into bed with his love. Nestling under the cover, he wrapped his arms about her and pulled her close, relishing the feel of her soft skin against his. Unable to resist, he gave her shoulder a kiss, then smiled and said, "I love you, you magical, special creature." He squeezed her a bit tighter, then just smiled, resting his head on the pillow. He did understand! Furthermore, he took off some of his garments and came into bed with her.he wrapped his arm around her and that made her warmer. She giggled a little as his chest hair tickled her back. She moved her back just a little back and forth to find a comfortable spot-of course her rear also moved back and forth trying to 'fit' her body to his. His arms surrounded her and became a little tighter, she didn't mind. He was warm and in some places quite soft. Her head was on the pillow also. She closed her eyes listening to the noise of the people outside. She heard the curtain moving a little with the wind. And then she heard his breathing-near her ear. It was soft and monotone like a lullaby, and she was warm and clean and had experienced so much. Her eyes were closed, but now they were closed due to sleep and after a very short while her breathing became even. Bernard kept trying to shift away from her to keep his erection hidden, and she kept pushing her bottom back against him, like she was trying to fit her bottom against him like a puzzle piece. Oh, it was so maddening. Something primal and bestial in him was screaming for him to take the innocent in his arms. To introduce her to the world of womanhood and pleasure. He was an honorable man, and as much as it pained him, he tried his best to control himself and ignore the press of her against him. It too much longer, but eventually, he too managed to fall to sleep, although his rest was not as peaceful as he was plagued by feverish dreams of sex and sensual sirens. He was still asleep when she awoke much later. She slept peacefully and woke up in the early morning with the sun shining in the window. She sat up in bed and stretched her arms out. He was lying next to her and did not move. Instinctively she knew not to make any noise so he wouldn't move. She pushed the blankets off of her and quietly got out of bed. The towel was near the basin, and she took it to put over her shoulders and cover as much of her body as she could as it was cold to her in the early morning. She opened the door to their room and went out into the hallway. Somehow she made it down to where the big canvas stood, the one she had walked out of. She stood there looking at it for a few moments. It was so strange that she was not in it- something was missing! She knew she never wanted to go back-she saw this long thing, and she saw all these pretty colors. The long thing had hair on the end of it. She stuck it in one of the colors- a bright deep color, and she went up close to the canvas and wiped the color on the canvas. She giggled like a small child for the color on the long thing came off on the canvas. Furthermore, she took another color and added it- and another- she kept putting more and more colors on the canvas until she had filled up ALL the empty spaces on the canvas! Furthermore, she was quite pleased with herself. Of course, she also had the colors all over her hands and feet and even some on her face. She decided to take the colors to him and share with him. She took the long hairlike instrument and there was a plate with colors on it- she took it with her. Furthermore, she found her way back down the hallway to the bedroom. Furthermore, she opened the door quietly and went to his side of the bed. Furthermore, she started to dip the hairlike instrument in the color and then wipe it on his sheet-then on his back. Bernard wrapped his arms about the muse, kissing her deeply as she wound her legs through his. He cradled her breast in his hand, thumb caressing her nipple as she gasped against his lips. She slipped away from him then rolled him onto his stomach and straddled his hips, her hands massaging his sore lower back as he groaned in delight. Then she leaned forward and began licking his back, her tongue so cold it made him shudder. So cold... cold? Blinking blearily, Bernard rolled over, seeing her standing over him with a paintbrush in hand. Oh... that would explain the cold on his back. He smiled a bit up at her, quietly terrified of what she might have done while unattended. "Morning, beautiful. What are you doing?" He bunched the sheets around his waist a bit, trying to conceal his morning erection. She held the long utensil in her hand-she smiled beautifully at him- and innocent, joyful smile." Paint" she replied to him and angled the hair like stick with color on it closer to his face. At the last moment she bent down to kiss his lips. She enjoyed when they touched their faces to one another. It was a pleasant sensation! He winced as it looked like she was going to paint his face, only to be surprised by a kiss. Bernard laughed softly and reached over to give her hip a little squeeze, "Sweet princess." He reached up to gently take the brush from her then patted the bed beside him, "Why don't you come here, and we'll cuddle for a bit?" She relinquished the brush without a problem. She was pleased to see his smile and with his hand he motioned that she come into the bed. Furthermore, she didn't understand the word he used." Cuddle" she asked with a lilt to her voice. She sat on the bed and lifted her legs onto the bed, and she laid her body next to his her hand touching his chest. Bernard dropped the brush beside the bed and turned to face her arms wending around her as he scooted closer and kissed her lips. Holding her close to his chest, he smiled and whispered, "Cuddle." His hand stroked lightly up and down her back, as he savored their closeness and the feel of her against him. She smiled as his arms wound around her and he kissed her. She mimicked his movements and wound her arms around him with her hands moving up and down his back. She loved all these new things she was experiencing! Wherever their bodies met or whoever he touched her small stabs of a tingling sensation began and spread to other parts of her body. She took her hand and caressed his hair, then his cheek. She moved her face, so her cheek touched his chest. Furthermore, she moved her cheek to caress his chest and a small escaped her. Furthermore, she became more brave and her hands moved down to touch his hips, and she placed a kiss on his chest. So many different sensations! As a small child would, she became quickly interested in something else. She moved the sheet off of her and got out of bed. She saw a glass and went over to it seeing someone else in the glass--she touched it, but it was not soft and warm--it was hard, and she could not touch the person she was seeing. She turned to him and said "Cuddle?" and pointed to the person in the glass. "No, my love. You can't cuddle her." He got out of bed and walked over, causing a man to join the woman in the glass. He tapped the glass with a fingernail, "This is a mirror." He pointed to the woman, "That's you, reflected in the mirror, and this is me." He pointed to the man, then reached over to lift a strand of her hair. The man in the mirror did the same, at the same time. Bernard started making funny faces, and the man in the mirror did the same." See, they're us." She watched him come over and suddenly! He was in the glass also! She laughed when he made funny faces, and she mimicked his faces also! She echoed what he said:"Mirror" she pointed to it and looked at him.then she pointed to him. Furthermore, she watched in the mirror as she raised her hand and caressed his face. She pointed to herself: "Genevieve".then she pointed to him.and said questioningly: "Bernard?" He blinked, clearly shocked at her use of his name. And of her own for that matter. "Yes... Yes, that's right!" Bernard laughed and actually leapt for joy. "I'm Bernard and you must be Genevieve." He clasped her hand in both of his and leaned down to kiss it, "Oh, I'm so happy to meet you, Genevieve. So happy." He threw his arms around her and embraced her tightly as joyful tears began coursing down his cheeks. "So glad to meet you." She smiled at his enthusiasm- he seemed so happy with her understanding 'mirror'. He hugged her - and then she felt something drop on her shoulder.she looked at him.liquid was on his face-coming from his eyes. She lifted her finger to his cheek to wipe it away...then she moved closer and cleaned it with her tongue. Her hand went instinctively to his cheek- to caress him. She looked in his eyes:""So glad to meet you." Bernard laughed and shook his head, amused at her method for drying his face. She was too cute and innocent for him to really consider the lick erotic. Instead, he took the opportunity to mirror her, gently stroking her cheek with his thumb. "You are so beautiful. How did I get so lucky to have you walk into my life?" He rested his forehead against hers and gave her a soft kiss. His kiss tasted wonderful...but she remembered something he said yesterday." Are you hungry?" She ran her hand on his tummy as he had done to her yesterday. She wasn't quite sure what it meant to be hungry, but she wanted to find out. Furthermore, she wanted to find out so many things! "I could certainly eat. But if we go eat, you'll need to put on a dress." he gave her a quick Eskimo kiss, rubbing his nose against hers, then took her hand and led her back into his studio. Once there, he opened up a wardrobe filled with women's clothing including some lovely gowns. "I've bought all this to dress models in for different pain..." He blinked and turned around, seeing what had been done to the canvas. "My painting..." He took a few steps toward it, reaching his hand out toward the ruined painting, mouth open in shock. She laughed at his kiss and his nose rubbing hers tickled her! She put her hand in his and went with him to the studio. He opened a close and she saw all the lovely dresses! She went over and was going through each one when she heard him go over to the painting.the one she had stepped out of. She went to run to him.she was excited.she had painted!! But he looked.she didn't know how to explain it...his mouth hung open.he was sad? He was not happy.she didn't know why." Genevieve painting! " She went over to the canvas and made up and down brushstrokes with her hand so he would know she had painted it! Bernard swallowed and closed his eyes, getting his thoughts in order before he replied. Actually, for someone with no training, it wasn't that bad. Good use of color, and the stroke technique was ... alright. He took a deep breath, then nodded, "You did paint. It's not bad. Here." He walked her over to the closet and opened it to reveal a bunch of painting supplies. He fished out an easel for her, and a fresh canvas. "You get to have your own tools, my love." He leaned over to give her a kiss on the cheek. Then he sat up the easel for her, placing the canvas upon it, then stepping back and giving her a hug. It was silly to be upset that she'd painted over his art. He'd already gotten everything he could ever want or need out of that painting, and she wasn't going home now. She watched as he opened the closet and her eyes became even bigger as she saw all the lovely colors! He took something like a bit paper only it was thicker than paper from the closet-he called it a 'canvas' and he said she could paint on it. He gave her a hug and she liked that a lot- she put her arms around him and hugged him tighter and said:'My love, Bernard." She stayed in his arms for a few minutes then broke the embrace and went back to the closet with all the dresses. She chose a lovely day gown of white muslin. The took it out of the closet and held it next to her-not knowing how to put it on. She held it next to her and let it go, but it just fell. She picked it up and did that a few times getting more and more frustrated as the gown would not stay on her...she called out: "Bernard!" in a very frustrating and helpless tone. Bernard walked over to help, lifting the dress off the ground. It was a simple dress and shouldn't need too much work, just a bit of lacing in the back for definition. He carefully bunched the dress in his hands and held it up for her, "Put your arms through these holes, Genevieve, then lift the dress over your head, and you can just let it fall. He pantomimed the motion without actually putting on the garment. She smiled at him, lifted her arms up and the dress slid down her arms and down her slender body. She waited while Bernard laced her up in the back. She was done, she twirled around in the dressing laughing and smiling. Life was simple for her-her needs were being met, she felt warm and comfortable, and she was discovering this new world she had stepped into. She looked at Bernard and realized how much he had taken care of her from the moment she had stepped out of the painting. She went over to him and took his hand and placed it on her heart-"Genevieve love Bernard". Furthermore, she kissed him sweetly on his lips. "Oh, I really, really hope so, Genevieve. I hope you know what that means and what you mean to me." He caressed her cheeks with his fingertips, "You are so very beautiful, you take my breath away." He embraced her tightly, and returned her kiss, his own lips a bit more passionate than hers had been. Afterward, he placed his hand on her stomach, "Hungry?" She enjoyed his embrace and his kiss- it made the insides of her tickle and she liked that! When Bernard put his hand on her stomach and asked "hungry?" She wasn't quite sure what it meant, but she nodded and said "yes!" Whatever hungry meant-it was something new to try and she liked new things! She put her hand in his waiting for him to lead her to wherever hungry was! And apparently hungry involved Bernard getting dressed, putting on shoes, putting cloth slippers on her, then taking them both outside while keeping hold of her hand to try to keep her from running off." Welcome to Paris, Genevieve." He pointed to a café at the next block, "We're going over there to get some breakfast." Genevieve waited while Bernard dressed, watching him put on his pants and shirt. Then he found something to put on her feet which took him a little while as she giggled the whole time because it tickled! He took her hand and they went outside. Genevieve didn't know where to look first --the first thing she noticed was all the noise! People talking, horses trotting, people going here and there and everywhere! It was all so distracting! She almost tripped in the street because her eyes were so busy looking around at the people, places and things. She saw pretty cloth hanging outside of doors and then there was fresh bread and fruit and lots of flowers! She looked around as a child looks at the world when they are very young-taking all the sights and sounds in all at once and being thoroughly overwhelmed by it all! Bernard carefully made sure she didn't wander as he led her down to the café, perhaps a bit embarrassed by the looks they were getting, but warmed by the excited expression on her face. He sat her in one of the seats at a small table, then sat himself, still holding her hand all the while." Monsieur, Mademoiselle... what can I get you this morning?" asked a waiter with pen at the ready." One of everything, I think. My lady has only just awoken from a long sleep and doesn't yet know what she likes. Tasting portions would be fine." Bernard smiled at Genevieve and gave her hand a squeeze. The waiter just blinked and nodded. "As you wish, Monsieur." He bowed and went back inside to confer with the chef. Food and drink would be coming soon. Genevieve sat down and looked at the people. She saw a man sitting across from her who had crossed his legs, she mimicked him. A young teenager had their head in their hand with their elbows on the table and Genevieve mimicked them. She saw a proper lady sitting very straight in her chair, fanning herself, and Genevieve copied her with a make believe fan. She saw Bernard looking at her with an appreciative smile-she smiled back at him and said:"As you wish, Monsieur!" "You are incredibly clever, Genevieve." Bernard said with a smile, reaching over to take her hand, thumb rubbing her knuckles. "You just seem to... absorb everything around you and make it your own. It's amazing. Before long you'll be far more clever and knowledgeable than I."" Just never forget that I love you, Genevieve. I think it would kill me to lose you now." He leaned over to kiss her cheek, then straightened as the waiter began delivering all manner of small pastries to their table, along with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. She was about to say something to Bernard when the waiter came with all kinds of dishes with colored foods on them. The looked a little like the color of the flowers, but they were different. There were other dishes on the table that sat higher than the flat ones. Genevieve looked at the other people around her. She saw a lady lift the taller dish to her lips. Genevieve mimicked her.luckily she did not tilt it to drink very quickly as it was hot. She pulled it away from her lips.and remarked." Oh!!!!!" She lifted it again to her lips and stuck her tongue in a little way and tasted it.her tongue came out and licked her lips and she smiled. She liked it! She put her hand on Bernard's arm...and looked at him." What ?" and she motioned to all the plates on the table. "Well, You've already discovered the hot chocolate." He tapped her cup with his finger, then began working around the table, "This is an éclair, this is a slice of baguette with fresh butter, this is..." He took his time going around the table, naming each food and drink in turn. "Now, most of the pastries will be sweet." He demonstrated sweet by giving her a bite of a cheese danish. "A couple will be savory." He gave her a bit of ham and cheese croissant." It should all be good to eat, but I'm not sure what your favorites well be, hence, a little bit of everything for us this morning." He smiled at her and gestured to all the food. "Bon appétit." Genevieve picked up the cup and pointed and said : "hot chocolate!" She smiled and drank it slowly. She took her finger and ran it around the éclair catching the cream. Furthermore, she put her finger in her mouth-closed her eyes and licked her finger clean saying..."mammal" to express that she liked it. She took a small bite of each thing on the table and then picked out what she liked and put it on her plate. She enjoyed tasting each sweet and savory item, but she liked the sweet ones the best. She did not eat everything on her plate-this was really her first time eating food, and so she just 'tasted' each thing a little. A man was walking in the street-he had a music box and a monkey who sat on top of the box. Genevieve saw the monkey and was delighted by the small animal. She got up from the table and walked quickly outside. She stood there watching as the man made the monkey do tricks for her. Furthermore, she put her hand out too quickly to hold the monkey, and he bit her. Furthermore, she let out a shriek and grabbed her hand away and cradled it in the palm of her other hand.it was bleeding.she looked quickly all around her for Bernard...she was confused and in pain. As much as her cry of pain stabbed him in the heart, it was inevitable, and necessary. In the world he'd created for her, nothing could harm her. She'd always be warm, safe, and loved. The real world was considerably more complex. After dropping some coins on the table for their breakfast and grabbing up a thick loaf of bread and a napkin, Bernard hurried outside and wrapped her up in a warm embrace. "Genevieve, darling. You must learn to be more cautious. You can get hurt here." He gently took her hand, shushing her and taking a look at the bite. "The little beast certainly got you. We'll need to..." The waiter from inside came out, shouting obscenities at the organ grinder, who left with his beast in tow." Many apologies, Mademoiselle. I've often told him not to bring that ill-tempered beast around her. It terrorizes my customers." The waiter was carrying a picture of clean water." Bernard nodded to the waiter, then looked back at Genevieve. "We'll need to clean the wound, Genevieve. This could sting a little, but it'll help it heal and keep you from getting sick." He nodded up to the waiter who carefully poured water over the wound. "Good girl," Bernard comforted. "We'll be done soon." When the water finished pouring, he quickly wrapped the napkin around the wounded finger for a bandage, then raised her hand up to her shoulder, putting her other hand around the wounded finger. "Now, how your hand up like this for a bit and squeeze." He squeezed her hand gently to show what he meant. "The bleeding will stop soon." He kissed her forehead, then used a handkerchief to dry her cheeks, "Let's go home. That's enough excitement for now, yes?" She threw her arms around Bernard when he came outside, sniffling some. She laid her head on his shoulder. His voice was comforting and soothing. The man that brought the food came running outside and yelled at the man with the animal. Genevieve tried to bury her head even deeper into Bernard's shirt putting her hands over her sensitive ears to diminish the high-pitched voice of the man from the café! Bernard took her hand and held it out for the waiter-she said 'oh!' when the water hit her finger. Bernard called her 'good girl'- that must be something she could repeat! She held her hand up as he showed her and pinched her bitten finger. She made a face at first as it hurt- but she became accustomed to the feeling very quickly. Bernard said : "Let's go home". She understood 'home'. He pushed her in the direction of where they originally came. She was glad to go home.she was a little tired.so much noise, so many colors, so many things moving! She said softly: "Home, Good girl" and nodded her head. They had no sooner walked in the door then Genevieve took off her dress and shoes-she kept on her chemise and slip and panties but everything else she took off and left it on the floor where it fell. Bernard sighed softly and shook his head, gathering the fallen garments and hanging them neatly in the closet. The shoes he sat beside the door for the next time he took her out. He put the baguette into the pantry for dinner, then went looking for Genevieve before she had a chance to get into too much mischief. "Genevieve, darling, where have you gotten off to?" Genevieve wandered into the only room she had not been in: the drawing room. Tucked away in the corner was a small piano forte. Genevieve put her hands on the keys and ran them up and down a few times. She took her hands off and put them back on and began to hum and accompany herself. Her song was a simple one but the music she played matched perfectly! She was lost in a world of her own. Now, that was mischief Bernard could support. Once again, she'd managed to amaze him with the depth of her skills and ability to learn. For someone who was literally just born yesterday, she was breathtaking. After waiting for her to finish her tune, he walked up and kissed the top of her head, "Beautiful and impressive. Now, try this." Although not any sort of virtuoso, Bernard enjoyed playing the piano. It helped him clear his mind when his muse was being fickle. He reached his arms around her, chin resting lightly on her shoulder, and played a short, but more intricate tune. Genevieve stopped playing and smiled when Bernard put his hands around her and played something. Without hesitation, when he stopped, she put her hands on the keys and played EXACTLY note for note what he had played! Bernard was gifted with the talent of being an amazing artist. In his creation of Genevieve, somehow HIS gift had been translated to HER regarding music. When she finished she looked at him beaming, the way a child would look at their teacher for approval! "That's amazing. Simply amazing. I suspect you could be a better pianist than I, and that's without training." Bernard shook his head, then had a seat beside his creation, reaching up to grab a sheet of music. "Genevieve. This is called sheet music, it's how musicians record their songs so that others may play them." Patiently and carefully, Bernard pointed out each note and played them for her, then tried to have her do the same. She was a fast, gifted learner, but this was the first time he'd attempted to teach her to read. Of course, when she was correct, he praised her, sometimes with hugs, sometimes with quick kisses, but always with kind words. When she made a mistake, he gently corrected her. In his mind, if he could teach her something she loved, it would be easier to teach her language and how to read. She pointed to the paper and repeated after him: "Sheet music". She liked sitting next to him and her mind was an empty pallet waiting to be filled! Furthermore, she was excited to have him explain these little black lines to her, and she understood what he said. It seemed that her mind 'remembered' whatever pictures he showed her, and she could call them back to her memory when necessary. She enjoyed his words of praise and when she made a mistake she tried harder so she could please him. His voice had a different 'tone' when he was pleased, and she wanted to hear THAT voice more. But, as a child loses interest quickly, so did Genevieve. When she had enough she took her fingers off the piano and kissed his lips. In another minute she was standing up and wandering out of the room in search of her paints. She turned abruptly almost bumping into him and made her hand like a cup and put it up to her mouth hoping he would understand what she wanted. Bernard was a little disappointed when she stopped but swallowed the feeling down, not wanting to pressure her. Teaching her music seemed like a good way to communicate the concept of written language, because honestly, she had so much to learn, he wasn't even certain where to start, and he needed to. In many ways she was still a child, and while he loved her dearly, people when they saw her would expect a woman, and there was a danger that if they realized how innocent she was, she'd be taken from him. He rose to his feel then smiled and nodded. "You're thirsty." He mimicked the cup gesture, and repeated, "Thirsty." He guided her over to the bedside stand where he kept a pitcher of water and a glass. Furthermore, he poured the glass for her then swirled and pointed to the fluid, "Water." He passed the cup over, determined to start teaching her the names of everything. Genevieve mimicked Bernard and said: "You're thirsty".she smiled at him and went with him to the bedside.she took the cup he poured the water in and drank it. She went to the bed and held up a pillow and looked at him...he said 'pillow' and she repeated the word. She enjoyed him smiling at her and she loved his attention. Furthermore, she continued to walk around the room picking things up and asking him with her glance to tell her what it was, and she repeated the word. And so it went as days turned into weeks. Bernard dedicated himself to educating Genevieve. Every night he'd hold her close and perhaps kiss her, but her innocence was precious, and he wasn't about to take that away from her until she could logically make that decision on her own. But it was hard, so very hard. She was the most beautiful woman he'd ever known, and her every motion, her every smile just made him love and desire her all the more. During the day, he took her for long walks, so she could get a better feel and understanding of the world. They'd visited a tailor to order her more clothes. They'd visited elegant restaurants, and a teeming market. He'd shown her books and read to her before working on helping her read herself. And she continually impressed him by how fast she learned, how fast she'd assimilate and adapt to new situations. They painted, they played the piano, they had a good time. Today, he'd taken her on a carriage ride, out to the actual field that had inspired 'her' painting. The scene was unmistakable, even if it some of the details were different. The horses were even out grazing in the field. He gave her a hug around the shoulders, "You recognize this, Genevieve?" Genevieve thrived on the learning of words that allowed her to communicate with Bernard and become more a part of his world. As her knowledge and understanding increased, so did her emotional knowledge-her feelings and sensations and sensitives. He kissed her and hugged her and whispered to her and as the days went by there was a yearning and a restlessness growing inside her. She could not explain what it was she just knew it was there. She would reach out to touch him and her fingers-hands- mouth would want to do 'more' only she was not aware what the 'more' was. One morning they dressed, and they went for a carriage ride as they had done many times in the past few weeks. This ride was longer.they came to a field and Bernard stopped the carriage, and he stepped out holding his hand for her." You recognize this, Genevieve?" She looked around and a feeling of returning washed over her. She looked at him in puzzlement then looked out at the field." This...this.this is ...it is....my home. You wish me to return to my home Bernard? Without you?" She was puzzled and afraid and nearly devastated that he did not want her anymore? "No. That's wrong on so many levels, Genevieve." Bernard reached over to take her hand. "This isn't your home. Your home is with me, back at our villa." He smiled and brought her hand to his lips and gave it a soft kiss. "This," he gestured to the field, "Was the inspiration for the painting that birthed you, nothing more. I just thought you might enjoy seeing it." He got out of the carriage and held his hands out for her to help her down, then gave her a firm hug. "I was taking a walk." He took her hand and began to stroll down the lane, "It was cooler then. Near the end of winter. There was some snow on those hills, but the horses were out, and I could see this place in the spring, with flowers, and horses, and everything. Now, I didn't see you. You were an amazing surprise." When he put her hands to lips-her fears and worries disappeared... He still wants me!she thought with simple joy. She strolled with him and listened as he told her how she came to be.or rather.how the painting that birthed her came to be. She looked at him and smiled." Bernard, how DID I come into being? How was it that I appeared in the painting?" She looked at him confident that he would have the answer. "I have no early idea, my love." Bernard smiled over at her, "You are an unprecedented miracle. Well, that may not be wholly true. There is a myth, a legend if you will, of an ancient sculptor who fell in love with one of his statues. He was so mad with love that he made daily sacrifices to the goddess of love, begging her to bring his creation to life so that he might be able to hold her and be held. And, in the story, the goddess was so impressed by his devotion and his love, that she did just that. The sculptor and his lady married and had a number of children."" While I didn't make any sacrifices to a pagan goddess, I think our tale does share parallels." He smiled at her and kissed her hand. "Particularly in my love for you, Genevieve." Genevieve had learned many words from the dictionary and from conversations with Bernard. She realized he was a very intelligent man, well versed on many subjects. He had read to her poems of love and romance, of betrothal and marriage, and she understood what it meant. She had realized, of late, that when he touched her like this-kissed her hand, her cheek and sometimes-on the rare occasion-when he kissed her lips-she started to get a warm feeling inside of her that spread through her body. She had felt her cheeks get warm on occasion as well and her body produced a wetness between her legs sometimes when there was a prolonged kiss or his touching of her hand went into a hug. Furthermore, she was curious and as he was her teacher, he was the source of her knowledge. She looked at him adoringly- "Bernard, tell me about men and women-how do they mate?" "Yes... well. ERM..." Bernard blushed a bit at her question. "That's a good question." He took a deep breath and leaned over against a nearby fence, smiling at her. "The first thing to remember is that discussion of 'mating' is considered very sensitive, very private and intimate. It not something common discussed in public. This is fine." He gestured around them at the wide expanse of fields, "There's no one to really overhear us."" That said, when a man and a woman care for one another, they will do many of the things we do. They'll kiss, embrace, caress one another's skin." He swallowed, adjusting his collar. "As they do that, their bodies will react. The male's manhood will swell and become erect, as will both the man and the woman's nipples. Also, the woman's... vagina will begin to moisten. When both the man and woman are ready, the man will insert his manhood into the woman's vagina, and they'll make love." He took a deep breath, "Of course, there are a great many variations and details, because people make love not only to mate, but also just for enjoyment and pleasant." She watched him and noticed how he was somewhat uncomfortable in talking about this subject. She had never seen him like this before. She listened politely to what he was saying-it made sense of course.EVERYTHING Bernard said made sense. And he ALWAYS answered her questions-she loved him for that! I love him? What does that mean to me? Bernard uses it when he speaks to me. She turned to Bernard-wonder in her eyes." Bernard.do I love you?" Bernard flinched slightly at the question. He tried not to show it, but she was too keyed to his nuances for him to really hide. For just a split section, he looked as though he was in pain, like he'd stubbed his toe, or banged his elbow. Then he smiled, but the smile didn't quite make it all the way to his eyes as he answered her, "I... I can't answer that for you, Genevieve. Love is something you feel inside." He placed his hand over his chest, "I feel my love for you deep in my heart. Your every smile delights me. Your every tear is like a dagger to my soul. I love you more than breath, more than music, more than my art or my life. I am more certain of my love for you than I am that the sun will rise and fall as it has for every day of my life." He reached over and gave her hand a squeeze, "But I cannot tell you how your feel, or even how you should feel. That is something for you and you alone." She listened to his words-they touched her heart-She had no doubt he meant what he said.his affection for her was indeed quite deep. She held his hand as he held hers and then her hand went up to his face- to caress him, and she looked deeply into his eyes."Bernard-you have breathed life into me- you have taught me all that I know-you have been a brother, father and friend to me. I love you on this level. I want to love you on another level as you love me.how do I do that?" "You just do, Genevieve. Love isn't something I can teach you how to feel. It's either in your heart, or it's not, and if you love me as a brother, father, and a friend, and that is all you feel, I will accept that and feel honored that I've had a chance to help bring such a precious, beautiful creature into this world." Bernard smiled at her and gave her cheek a caress with the back of his fingers." I love you Genevieve, in every way that it is possible to love a woman. But part of that is being willing to let you make your own choices, and live your own life. I don't want you to feel obligated to me. Everything I've done for you, I've done willingly, not because I expect anything in return." He nodded and gave her a kiss on the forehead. Her heart swelled with the unselfishness and the honest of this man. She knew she was an innocent-the only man she had experience with was Bernard. Should she leave him to experience what it was like to be with another man? She turned from him and walked a little by herself....she was an intelligent woman-even though her life experiences were few.did more life experiences make you happier? She doubted it.did more experience with different men make a difference? Furthermore, she doubted that as well. What was she to do? Did she love Bernard as a man loves a woman and a woman loves a man? She was not sure-her lack of experience sometimes was a handicap for her. She knew she wanted 'more' with him.she just didn't know what that 'more' was. He was honest, and she would be honest with him. She turned back to him and went to him-taking his hand and placing it on her heart." I want 'more' with you Bernard. I just do not know what that 'more' is. My experience is so very limited.but that I do not want what you and I share to stop here.that I know for certain.but I need your help to discover what 'more' means." she left his hand on her heart-looking into his eyes.imploring him with her eyes. As she turned to walk away, Bernard felt a bit of moisture upon his cheek. Reaching up, he wiped away a tear he didn't even realize he'd shed. He'd always know this day might come. The day she'd outgrow her need for him, the day she'd take to the sky and fly away like the angel she was. Genevieve was a miracle, a celestial creature, a muse gives form. How could he even imagine he'd be worthy of such a woman, being mere flesh and blood. He turned to look out over the field that had been her genesis, leaning forward onto the fence, eyes as distant as his thoughts. He wondered how he could live without her. Furthermore, he'd been alone for so long, but he'd poured so much of himself into teaching her, into helping her 'become', that the thought of living without her was as bleak as anything he'd ever faced before. Furthermore, he felt so lost, and was surprised when she came back to him. He swallowed as he listened to her, eyes glistening with emotion. Relieved, he stepped into her, embracing her tightly and nodding, rubbing his cheek against hers. "Ok... Alright. We'll take it slow and take it together, just like we have with everything else, and if you begin to become uncomfortable, you need to let me know, alright?" She raised her hand to his cheek.and wiped away the moisture." What is this wetness on your cheek? You are hurt? " She asked with concern written all over her face. "Only an emotional fool, Genevieve." Bernard said with a soft smile. "People do cry when in pain, but also when they are either extremely happy or extremely sad. I've been both this afternoon. Sad when I felt you were leaving me, and thrilled that you are not." He took her hand and cocked his head toward the field, "Come, let's go for a walk, perhaps pick some flowers." She tried to understand what he was explaining about the moisture on his face. She was glad in the end the words that she had said today had made him happy. She took his hand, and they began to walk in the field. It was a beautiful sunny day- a light breeze blowing.after a short walk she dropped his hand and ran to chase the butterflies in the field.she felt so free! She chased the butterflies for a while.then she twirled around finally dropping to the ground, somewhat tired out. She dropped by a large oak tree-propping her back against the tree.her legs straight in front of her." Bernard.come and sit down with me!" she implored. Bernard delighted in watching her run about the field, so carefree and alive. It had been a good thing to take her out here where her natural enthusiasm for life was so welcome and fitting. He wandered about the field for a bit, searching out a good blossom for her dark hair, finally settling on a lovely blue flower with dozens of long, narrow petals. Turning his head as she called for him, Bernard smiled and nodded, calling back, "On my way." When he made it to the tree, he knelt beside her and carefully tucked the fragrant flower into her hair just above her ear. "Lovely." He cupped her cheek, leaning in for a soft kiss before settling beside her, back also against the tree. His hand sought hers, fingers intertwining as he looked out over the fields." I have a house in the country." Bernard began, rubbing his thumb across hers. "It's been in my family for generations, although I haven't been there in many years. It's a large home, too large for one man alone. So I moved to the city. I think you'd like it there." The flower he brought her delighted her.his thoughtfulness and caring - for the large things.but mostly, like now, for the smaller things that brought her joy. She took his hand as it left the side of her head where he placed the flower, and she caressed his hand and returned his kiss. This warm feeling she felt for Bernard.this feeling of calm and peace but also a stirring that permeated her body- a stirring that was part excitement, part joy, part need, part wanting. She felt a pull for something 'more' and yet.this moment was enough for her! She found it hard to understand how there could possibly be 'more' when she was so content with what he gave her, showed her, shared with her." A house in the country? Would it have a field and flowers like this? And could we walk in the field as we have today? And each time we walked would you pick a flower and put it in my hair as you have done today?" She looked at him- a full-grown woman-with a child's beautiful innocence--her delight and joy in such small things! "So long as I can find a flower that will do justice to your beauty, yes. And you could learn to ride a horse, we could go swimming in the pond, or even sit outside at night and watch the stars come out." Bernard scorched a bit closer and slipped his arm about her, "It's said that you can make a wish on the first start of the evening. Personally, I never believed in that sort of superstition in the past, but you have changed all that for me."" Genevieve," he pulled her a bit closer and kissed her cheek, "You are a miracle in every way. You've rekindled my faith in a way I didn't believe possible. I now understand that anything is possible, and I have you to thank for that." She clapped her hands together when he said she could ride a horse! AND swimming in the pond every day! She did not know what gods smiled upon her to grant her life ...but she was so thankful they did! Her life was an unexplained gift filled with happiness each day because of this wonderful man! She blushed at his words of praise, and thanks for her-her hand gently touched his cheek and she brought her lips to his. She put her forehead so it touched his as she said quietly:"Bernard, my dear sweet man, I am only here because of your fantasy and vision-perhaps you made a silent wish and the gods deemed you fitting to grant it, perhaps they were in a good mood and delighted to have some fun- it matters not the reason-only- that by your hand, I came into being. I could say that I am the epitome of what you, yourself believe, wish, desired.so.your thanks are misplaced. What deeper gratitude could a person have for the inspiration, thought, care, desire, wanting, wishing and creativity that gave her life?" "I want to marry you, Genevieve." The admission was sudden, but heartfelt as Bernard looked deep into her eyes. "I cannot envision a life without you and want you with me for all time. I have wealth enough for us to live comfortably, and I hope that I've proven that I would be a good husband to you. Adoring, dutiful, faithful. We could travel the world. See everything there is to be seen. Whatever you desire. All I wish is to be by your side." He sighed and caressed her cheek, "I've wanted this since I first laid eyes upon you, before you even crawled out of the painting. I... I had wanted to wait to propose when I was certain that you loved me as I love you. It's just... I can't wait anymore. I wanted you to know how I feel, and even if you don't want the same things, that's something I'll live with."" But I want you to think about it, regardless. I can assure you that you'll never find another that cares about you as deeply as I." Before she really even had time to assimilate what Bernard had just confessed, the sound of a galloping horse interrupted them. Both turned to see a massive white charger galloping across the field. The horse's rider was a young man with long blond hair fanning out behind him, wearing a white tunic, only loosely laced at the collar, and black riding breeches and boots. He had a saber on his side that was slapping against his thigh as he rode. The sun was low on the horizon and at the rider's back, surrounding him in a corona of fire. Bernard's soft groan could be easily missed with the noise of the approaching steed. The horse pulled to a stop beside their tree, the rider smiling brightly down. "Bernard! No one told me you were coming out today. I've not seen you in ages." The young man was beautiful, like the Greek god Apollo, made flesh. His skin was tanned, frame lean and muscular, features both strong and inviting." No one knew. I was just taking a private afternoon with Genevieve, my ward." He rose to his feet and offered her a hand up, "Genevieve, this is my cousin, Gaston Rousseau. He's a military man, and I thought he was off campaigning."" Genevieve?" Gaston replied curiously, "I didn't know Bernard had taken in a ward. I would have placed you as one of his models. My older cousin has a genuine eye for beauty. None could fault his tastes." He dismounted easily and walked over, standing an easy foot taller than Bernard, then knelt and offered his hand to Genevieve, "My lady, please forgive me for interrupting your visit with my cousin, although honestly, I don't feel so guilty. Had I not happened by, my eyes would not know of your beauty and my life would have been darker as a result." Bernard and Gaston were an interesting contrast. Bernard's beauty was almost more a matter of spirit. He wasn't ugly, by any means, but he was pointedly average, and in his very nearly 40 years of age. Gaston was young, hale, and healthy, much closer to the age she appeared. Where Bernard held a father's concern for her in his eyes, Gaston had no idea that she was in any way unusual. What danced in his eyes was an undeniable flask of desire and attraction." May I invite the two of you back to the house for dinner?" Genevieve was trying to understand all the Bernard had said when she saw a horse galloping towards them. She heard him groan, and she looked at him quickly to see if anything was wrong. As the horse stops. Genevieve approaches it and runs her hands up and down its fine nose...such a beautiful animal. She listens as the stranger talks seeming to know Bernard. She curtsied as she was introduced to him. Furthermore, she thought he was nice looking.she had learned to not 'blurt' out her questions as soon as she thought of them, but she was not sure what a 'ward' was. She did not know what to make of his words. Bernard's words had purpose to them, and they were direct.his words seemed to dance, and she was not sure of their meaning. She stayed quiet and stood next to Bernard.her hand searching for his to hold onto. He invited them to dinner...they perhaps had to go, but she almost wished they didn't. She had a bad feeling about this!

Art Becomes Life (Aeval & Corinthi)|rating:4.0

Prologue - Southern Diplomacy (Balian & TheHappyMoonkin)

(IOC note: Anything in italics is spoken in Gaelic.)" English bastards." Manius (said in a thick accent before spitting on the ground in front of two English guards standing before a wooden palisade that surrounded the English camp. Marius was more focused on his hatred of the English to realize just how many of them there were, but his father Malcolm didn't miss a detail. The old Scotsman's eyes brimmed with masked worry at the hundreds of English soldiers camped just outside of Edinburgh Castle (there to protect their king. Henry did have a reputation for extravagance, which Malcolm hoped was the explanation." You must have some balls under that skirt, Scot," the English guard retort, taking a step away from his post toward Marius." I'll--," Marius made his large hands into fists and began to raise one as he spoke, but couldn't get another word out before his father had elbowed him in the gut." He does indeed, sassenach," Malcolm (said calmly with a sly smile before giving his son a firm shove forward, quickly moving them away from the English. They continued on a way, passing under the gate and into the courtyard of the castle, before the chieftain smacked the backside of his son's head. "Yes will keep yer heed, yes kin?" Manius only offered his father a simple nod in response and turned his gaze forward. Marius had silenced himself out of respect and love, clearly not out of fear given that he stood a whole head taller than his father. That and he was well aware of his own temper and that his father almost always knew what was best. In most situations, Marius allowed his emotions to control his decisions, except when his father was there to remind him of his brain. His impulse to act on emotion earned Marius a reputation as an unpredictable fool, but in reality all he did was follow his heart. And he certainly had a good one. The two walked further on in silence, taking in the sight of the gathering. Some clan tartans Marius smiled at and at others he glared. Malcolm's face was unchanging, as he kept good control of his emotions as his eyes surveyed everything calmly. However, one tartan in particular brought a glow to father and son alike. The yellow tartan of Clan MacLeod." Cousin Marius! Uncle Malcolm!" The elder MacLeod brother (exclaimed joyfully in Gaelic, having spotted them the same moment they saw him. As they all closed the distance between each other, the cousins shared a quick embrace before nephew and uncle did the same." It's good to see you, William," Marius responded back in Gaelic, clearly just as happy to see his cousin as his cousin was to see him. "You know you can turn around and go home though, right? There's no way King Henry will pick a MacLeod over a MacKenzie."" Or a MacKenzie over a Douglas," Malcolm quickly added in. The family resemblance between the three was noticeable for those truly looking. After all, the three all shared MacKenzie blood. Except Malcolm's gray mane, their hair color was the same and they shared many similar facial features. William was by far more handsome than Marius, as the MacLeod brothers were slightly famous for being so, but Marius was the taller and much stronger. Malcolm clasped his nephew on the shoulder and seemed ready to say more, but before he could bagpipes from the keep began to sound very loudly. A summons for everyone to make their way inside. A brief silence fell over the three, each man prepared in his own way for what was to come. Then together they moved their little reunion toward the palace. Malcolm and William began to talk business, as they always did when together, while Marius's attention shifted to the surrounding happenings. Manius was perceptive enough to see the clans were gathering together, completely on their own, by alliances. The Campbell's and their supporters were hurrying inside, undoubtedly to try and be the first. Those loyal to Clan MacKenzie, the true Scots in Marius's eyes, were already beginning to surround them. And lastly, the bastard Douglass were following up beside them, with many glares being exchanged between the two groups. At their head was Angus Douglas (otherwise known by his nickname, 'The Black Douglas'. Adorned in the black tartan of Clan Douglas, he was stern and focused, his attention only on the keep as he walked briskly, hand upon his sword." Form a line to meet the Princess Eleanor!" Came a cry from a Campbell clansman standing outside the palace. Seeking to arrive inside before their bitter enemies, both the MacKenzie supporters and Douglas supporters began to walk faster. Marius was about ready to sprint inside when his father grabbed his and William's shoulders to slow the men down. Not saying a word, the MacKenzie gave them both a stern look, which was all it took to scold the two of them into obedience. So as the others rushed inside to get into the line that now ended outside the door, Malcolm, William, and Marius took their place at the end of the line and began to wait their turn to be presented to the Princess." At least the' Sassenach Princess will suffer as much as we DAE," Marius said before crossing his arms over his chest. So this was Scotland. With its deep rolling emerald hills and rocky crags that stretched as far as the eye could see, it was almost like a dream. Pulling herself away from window, Eleanor (the youngest daughter of King Henry retreated to the writing desk across the room. “Its beautiful no?” She spoke in an attempt to engage the small flurry of maids that were busy getting things in order for the great meeting that was to take place that very afternoon. “If you say so miss.” came as a short response as one of the maids approached her with a small wooden box in hand. Eleanor eyed it curiously, slender dark brows narrowing and creasing her forehead. “A gift, my lady, from the King. He wishes you to wear it” she woman explained opening the box to reveal an overly elegant necklace of rubies and matching earrings. “Oh.” Eleanor remarked, her fingers ever so gently caressing the largest stone that sat adorned by fine gold filigree. “It is beautiful.” She continued, “Please relay my dearest thanks to my father”. The maid replaced the lid upon the box and bowed to a slight curtsy, “The King will be pleased to her of your happiness my lady.” the maid said and placed the box on the desk. Eleanor glanced at it, a slight frown turning at the corner of her lips, “The King.” she murmured, and turned her attention to the written notes that sat pinned beneath her arm. Her father, the King, was a man of a heartless reputation, and she had little reason to believe otherwise. At the age of five Eleanor was granted the protection of her Uncle William, the Queen's brother, and was sent to live with him and his family at their estate. Several months later, Eleanor’s mother, King Henry’s third wife was executed for acts of treason. Though her uncle was quiet on the subject, Eleanor suspected it was no coincidence that she has been sent away. The King was as much a stranger to her, as she was to him and Eleanor understood perfectly her position and the part she was cast to play. She was a pawn, a means for gaining the political upper hand. Convince the Scottish that peace was at hand; an English Princess for the Scottish Prince. Peace. Eleanor glanced towards the wooden box which held the exquisite jewels within. They weren’t for her, but for the future Scot that would be offered her hand in marriage; it was a taste, a sampling of what could be with the result of surrender and the silencing of the Scottish uprisings against the throne. Wealth beyond measure, glorious riches, and the hand of daughter of the king. MacKenzie. Douglas. MacLeod. Three of the most important clans in opinion of her Uncle. Douglas was in the pocket of the king, England’s greatest asset regarding the subduing of Scotland. A marriage would only solidify and strengthen the fealty of Douglas to England drawing lesser clans into obedience. Then there were the MacKenzie and MacLeod, joined clans by marriage and known supporters of a country free from English influence. True Scotsmen with many loyal followers. If either were to accept the bribe, England would have control over both clans; blood ran thick throughout the Scottish highlands, and what did the Scots value even greater than freedom? Family.----The noon sun now hung high in the sky, hidden behind a mask of gray clouds with the promise of rain. In the courtyard the clans had begun to assemble; the loud booming and for the most part, jovial voices of the Scots echoing off the stone walls of the castle. The steadfast will she possessed earlier that morning was quickly slipping. Up until now Eleanor had never traveled more than several miles from her home, and only to court enough times to count on one hand. She missed her uncle, her cousins; the only true home she had ever known. She missed being called Nora, a nickname those close to her would use. Furthermore, she wanted to go home.“My lady?” One of the maids addressed her, perhaps out of concern of the stone like composer Eleanor was now exhibiting. With a deep inhale, her eyes squeezed shut in an attempt to banish away the tears that threatened to betray her. “I’m fine. I just want to prepare myself for my meetings with the clans”. She said. The maid nodded, resting a hand on her shoulder as if to comfort her; no doubt assuming Eleanor shared the same prejudices as most of England that had been built upon rumors. But she knew first hand just how misleading such things could be as her own people had labeled her as a deformity a bastard, and a list of other distasteful titles; some even believed her to be dead. No, Eleanor did not believe everything she had heard about the uncivilized brutes that were said to be the Scottish, but the uncertainty of her future and the ulterior motives of her father were what continued to gnaw at the pit of her stomach.----Now dressed in a gown (of crimson and gold, the ruby necklace hung heavy around her neck in full display as it brushed the tops of her breasts with each step. Her hair had been pulled back into one single long braid adorned with wire wraps of gold which now rested in front of her right shoulder. Catching the reflection of her cold blue gaze in a nearby mirror, her lips parted in a soft breath of surprise. The King had spared no expense to her adornments, she truly held the appearance of royalty and though perhaps a bit prideful, she was beautiful.----The King now stood on the other side of great wooden doors that led into the main hall. He was addressing the Scottish clans, reiterating the reason for the gathering. The two had spoken very briefly just moments before, his hand lifting her chin as their hauntingly similar blue eyes met. With his gaze assessing her, “You look just like your mother.” Had said with no real emotion that neither pulled towards a compliment nor insult. “Perhaps I should have married her off to France”. He had smiled then, chuckling as his attention adverted to one of his advisers who agreed to the statement. She stood there unsure of what to say. Shortly after, the King departed to deliver his speech, no other words exchanged between them. Once the King had finished his short address Eleanor was ushered forward into the room with handful of handmaidens that trailed several feet behind her. With a deep breath she summed every ounce of courage she possessed and held her head high. Upon reaching the chair we are intended to reside in, she took her seat in a single graceful movement. Fully addressing the room with her gaze, she smiled softly and bowed her head respectably to the lords of Scotland. The Scots were ushered in until the line began at the foot of a set of four steps leading up to the chair, which was far closer to a throne, that the princess sat in with such grace. The line began to curve and snake in the large room to make space for all, and once Marius at the back of the line stepped inside, the great doors were closed behind him. For a moment, King Henry spoke quietly to his advisers before dismissing them with a small wave of his hand, both men disappearing with haste behind the throne as two guards stepped forward to stand to the left and right of the princess. It was then the king addressed the room." Before I announce who shall marry my daughter, I would first have it known that I only have one goal," King Henry began, his hands disappearing behind the great cloak bearing the red Royal Arms of England (upon his back. "And that is peace. That being said, there is nothing I will not do to achieve that end. Including offering the hand of my daughter in marriage. You shall all be given a chance to meet her, after which I shall return with King Marcus to announce my decision." Without another word or even a glance at his daughter, King Henry turned and disappeared in the same direction of the two men before him. It was at that time the drudgery of meeting every great man of Scotland began. Many would indeed meet the stereotype Princess Eleanor had heard growing up, hairy, large, and some even shamelessly dirty. Each man would step forward, take her delicate hand in their rough and sometimes unclean hand before offering the princess a gentle kiss upon her knuckles or a small bow of their head. After a 'MAH laden' and an introduction, they would move on, and the next man would step forward. Many even had gift offerings, not that it would help them. One offered a great fur cloak while others brought measly and poor offerings of jewelry. While they waited their turn, the two kinsman chieftains quietly spoke to each other while Marius stood behind them in silence. While they were speaking of things lairds and chieftains speak of, Marius kept his attention in front of him. While they were too far away to see the princess, Marius watched his countrymen and began to bottle up his hatred for this Sassenach princess he had never met before. He conceded to the fact that he would hate her no matter what simply because she was English, and he hated her father more than anyone else on earth. Save the Douglass, of course. Even if she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen, he knew he would hate--And then he saw her. Just at the moment she came into view, he somehow managed to catch her gaze for a moment, his height likely helping. His face maintained its usual composure, but his eyes could not contain his yearning for the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Of course, he was still very far away, and it would be difficult for the Princess to read his eyes very well at all. So he didn't hate her. He justified this in his head by telling himself that he felt passionately about her, which is close enough. Little did he know that the passion was on the wrong end of the emotional spectrum. When the three kinsmen were finally at the front, William stepped forward first. With a charming MacLeod smile on his face, the handsome Laird offered the Princess a slow bow before he reached into his yellow kilt slowly, his eyes telling her two guards to remain calm. After all, it was not a dagger that he pulled out, but a small piece of cloth the size of a handkerchief bearing the tartan of his clan." I have a gift fur yes, m'laden," William said kindly, still smiling as he held out the cloth to her. "That is the' tartan of my clan, Clan MacLeod. It was made fur my wee brother Fergus when he was born, but he is nae has need of it anymore. Yer hands do." How exactly he knew or guessed she would want or need to clean her hands, the young chieftain would never say. Charming, perceptive, and thoughtful. The MacLeod brothers had a reputation for thus, created first by William. While William spoke with the princess, Marius kept his eyes on the ground in thought, his gaze stern. "Before I announce who shall marry my daughter, I would first have it known that I only have one goal. Peace"Eleanor sat still as stone upon the throne like chair, the words leaving her father’s lips doing nothing to ease her troubled mind. What exactly was his idea of peace? Slowly, she exhaled, her chest softly rising and falling against the tight lacings of her bodice. ‘Just breath and smile-breath’ Eleanor attempted to coach herself as two guards stepped to left and right of her and The King departed leaving her to the mercy of her audience without even so much as a glance. The young woman looked out upon the many rough and bearded faces of the great men of Scotland, before the day was through she would have met every single of one of them, she swallowed dryly. Having spent very little time at court or away from her home in general, to suddenly be the sole attention of a room full of strangers was overwhelming to say the absolute least. As if on cue, one of the maids appeared to her side and bowed low; in her hands was a shining cup of deep red wine. “Thank you” Eleanor nearly choked out all the while still trying to keep her composure. Taking the cup in a single hand she took a steady sip, savoring the taste upon her lips. The Woman offered a small smile and once more took the still fairly full cup back to where she had been stationed moments before. Eleanor took one more final deep inhale of courage and nodded to the solder at her right to start the proceedings. To every man that stepped forward to place a kiss upon her hand Eleanor greeted him with a gleaming smile and a nod of her head. In turn to learning their names she would ask little questions regarding their clans and occasionally remark upon the color of their tartans or mottos. Though she did make an honest attempt of remembering each and every name, it did not take long for them to start bleeding together. When a gift was offered, no matter how grand or lacking, she would exhibit an honest gratefulness, a surprising quality perhaps from someone of her station. Even if she held any prejudice against these people, she did not display it. It was no secret, the strained relationship between England and Scotland, and if it was indeed her father’s honest desire for there to be peace, perhaps it could start right here in this room; before alliances, before marriages. One of the finer gifts she had received was great fur cloak to which she slipped around her shoulders almost immediately and nuzzled into the soft fur. “This is truly beautiful. Thank you”. She said with a soft sincere smile to the Scot who seemed just as pleased with her reaction to the gift. Behind him several clansmen muttered amongst each other, twangs of jealousy clouding their gazes as they stared at their fellow Scot. Unable to contain herself, Eleanor laughed softly, hiding her face briefly in the soft fur that still covered her shoulders. She wouldn’t go as far to say she was enjoying herself, but there could be worse things to be subjected to. As it was time for the next man to step forward she handed to cloak to the nearby maid who then hurried the item over to join the other offerings. Halfway through the proceedings she was approached by a group of men in black tartan who introduced themselves as the Douglas clan. Bowing her head to their leader in respect she held out her hand to which was kissed. So these were the men that had sided with England. She was noticeable uneasy as the heir of clan Douglas took her hand in his tight possessive grip. Despite the majority of the men who had greeted her were less than passably clean, this was the first incident where she felt the strong need to clean her hands. As the men departed she released a visible sigh of relief; she truly hoped that would not be the man her father would choose. Reluctantly, Eleanor brought her eyes forward once more in hopes of seeing a different color of tartan before her and that was when their gazes met from across the room. Who was he? The question spurred within her, the rigid demeanor from being kissed by a Douglas melting almost immediately. Though it appeared that above average height was a common trait amongst the Scottish, this man, this demanding presence, was almost a full head above those around him. The princess swallowed, mentally shaking herself. ‘Breath,’ her inner voice urged as she became aware of the building pressure within her lungs requesting air. “Forgive me.” She apologized to those now before her, quickly adverting her eyes from the mysterious figure who was still too far away. Regaining her smiling composure, the greetings continued with only the occasional glance towards the back of the room." I have a gift fur yes, m'laden,"An undoubtedly handsome Scot with a tartan of bright yellow now approached with her mysterious stranger behind him. Despite the flood of foreign emotions that were now fluttering inside her, the smile upon William MacLeod’s features was much too enticing to ignore. The princess found herself smiling just as much. As he reached into his kilt, her brows gently arched, amusement playing across her fair features at his control over the guards at her side. As he revealed the cloth to her and related her hands need for it, her smile broadened. Laughing softly to herself she took the gift within both hands and admired it briefly before turning her gaze upon his handsome one. “Truly. It is not that bad.” She said with the same smile. MacLeod. Eleanor’s smile faltered ever so slightly as her uncle’s words filled her head regarding this man’s father. Still holding the cloth within her hands with great care, Eleanor leaned forward towards the man. “Please accept my apology on England’s action against your family.” she began her tone dropping to where he would only be able to hear her. “No one should have to suffer so for wanting something that is their natural right.” She knew it was out of line, or perhaps he would take her words at mockery, but she may never have another chance to say this; Freedom was every human’s right. But before the man before her could react one way of the other, her bright beaming smile reappeared and her voice once more its normal tone, “You must thank your brother on my behalf. I promise this lovely gift will be in good hands”. The look on William's face at Eleanor's comments about his father can be described no other way than shock. He blinked once before cocking his head to the side slightly, his eyes then narrowed and grew far more stern as he now truly focused to get the best measure of her possible. To most English, his father was a villain and one only spoken of as a victory they had over the barbaric Scots. After a moment of silence, William took a step closer to the Princess and took her delicate hand into his clean one and placed a soft kiss there before stepping away and smiling wide. "Thank yes fer yer kind words, m'laden." And with that, William bowed and walked back to stand beside his uncle. With his cousin out of the way, the great Marius stood alone before the Princess as the last man to greet her. He did not begin his ascent right away, but instead paused for a long moment as he looked at her and only her. It was as if no one else in the world even existed. She had enthralled his entire consciousness. Such was the intensity of his gaze upon this English beauty that in his mind he could almost see her bare in her seat, and from the strength of his eyes, a weaker woman might even feel as such before him. As he made his first stride up the steps, he did so with a power and confidence that came so easy to the man. Where the footsteps of the men before him might have been lost and drowned out in the large expanse of the keep, Marius's steps sounded clearly in the ear of Princess Eleanor. Each step was a loud thud, which was just another testament to the Scot's brawn. The closer he stepped, the larger and more ferocious he became. With a hand resting upon the bastard sword on his hip, he came to a halt on the penultimate step before falling silent again, his eyes devouring her beauty as no words escaped his mouth or passed through his head. While Marius approached the Princess, with all of his attention focused on her, his father looked around the large room with a furrowed brow. Looking up above them, he noticed an unusual amount of men standing around the railings on the second level. Many wore kilts and others did not, but those that did, Malcolm quickly recognized as either Douglas clansmen or one of their allies. Looking around the room further, he found the Black Douglas and the rest of his supporters standing by the exit. They all had their hands on their swords, and now that he really paid attention, most were wearing some form of light leather armor. Without saying a word, the MacKenzie jabbed an elbow into his nephew's side and flicked his eyes up to the men above. William, who had just been rudely pulled from the workings of his mind, quickly looked above, and his gaze grew ever more stern. The two chieftains exchanged ominous looks before turning their attentions back to Marius. It was then Malcolm also noticed the deafening silence in the room, with every eye upon his son and Princess Eleanor. Several long moments passed before Marius finally broke that silence." My name is Marius MacKenzie, son of Laird Malcolm MacKenzie, the chieftain of Clan MacKenzie," Marius began, the passion of his eyes blatantly evident in the Scot's words as well. "I Donna have a gift, but I have stood and waited long to finally meet you, Sassenach." His refusal to address her by her title would be easily noticed, especially given that the word he used in its place could be seen as one of disrespect, but this was not how Marius meant it. Even as many Scots behind him exchanged whispers, at that moment, all else was gone from his mind. They were alone in the room, and she was just a beautiful English woman, so he called her what she was. Sassenach was the Gaelic word for an English person or an outsider, with the Princess certainly being both. With his eyes still upon Eleanor, Marius finished by speaking briefly in Gaelic, the hushed words sounding strangely tender given the look of the man before her." Tá do Villach Sabbath m'Adam."" Your beauty has captured my soul." Eleanor held tight to the gifted cloth that bore the MacLeod crest as silence passed between her and William. Unsure of what words to choose, she bowed her head ever so slightly, a sign of her truest sincerity. She understood her father’s desire to rule Scotland, the submission he wanted from each of the clan leaders and their people, but she could not agree with his ways. A soft sigh escaped the young woman’s lips as she watched the handsome Scotsman before her, she was beginning to regret her words. She had a tendency to speak her mind regardless of what it would do to her reputation, she challenged decisions made by those older and much more powerful; it was no wonder that her father had sent her away. As an apology started to take form upon her tongue the silence between herself and the Scot was broken, the moment seeming like it lasted for hours. But once more that charming smile she had first been greeted with reappeared, and he moved several steps closer to take her hand. Eleanor held her hand to him, and soft kiss was placed upon it. As William thanked her for her kind words she nodded replying with her own smile. And there he was. With the charming William now returning to his companions, Eleanor was left to face the man who had caught her eye from earlier, and suddenly she was nervous. Her expression was firm, her cold blue eyes not leaving his own gaze as he walked towards her. His presence commanded such attention and respect, a true-born leader. With each step, the sound of his boots upon the floor seemed to echo throughout the room pinning her there upon the chair unable to direct her attention in any other direction. Despite the sudden surge of nerves within her being, she was not afraid. Eleanor wanted to know this man, to feel his touch upon her skin, to hear his voice speak only to her. She wondered if he was always such a serious demanding soul. Did he ever smile? She dearly wished to see the lightness of humor upon his dark irises and his stern features melt into a wrinkle of laughter. She wanted to be the reason for the happiness, and she did not have the faintest idea why. The man stood before her now, his eyes devouring every inch of her. She exhaled slowly, her chest falling as her lips remained ever so slightly parted. Silence had overtaken the room around them and if her attention had not been so engulfed in the man before her, perhaps Eleanor would have noticed the slight shuffling of armed men towards the exits and above then at the railings." My name is Marius MacKenzie, son of Laird Malcolm MacKenzie, the chieftain of Clan MacKenzie…” MacKenzie. The third most important clan of Scotland. Eleanor, finally regaining some of her regal composure bowed her head and greeting. His words were strong, full of the pride and passion she had heard the Scots possessed. SassenachHer head lifted at the word, her brows knitting together slightly as a smile threatened to turn across her lips. There was no disrespect upon his tone of expression but still a series of whispers passed between various parts of the room. Eleanor was familiar with the term, having studied her fair share if Gaelic upon hearing of her father’s plans; she was indeed an outsider. Finally, her smile broke free, and she nodded softly in agreement.“Marius MacKenzie, son of Lord Malcolm MacKenzie, the chieftain of Clan MacKenzie,” she began repeating the title he had given her moments before, “My name is Eleanor, daughter of King Henry, Princess of England and now Sassenach ”. Perhaps it would have been possible to say more, but the words that left the Scotsman’s lips had left her speechless and completely ignorant or the events that were threatening to unfold in the surrounding room. March 15, 1185The Ides of Marches she said, and seemingly embraced, the new title he had given her, the large Scot did something he would never have expected. His lips slowly began to curl into the smile she so desired to see. Unlike his charming cousin, Marius had a far more rugged appearance to him, but as his lips curled further, where the smile truly shined in was from his eyes. Even as his bearded face was stretched from the smile, the glow and smile of his eyes was both heartwarming and sincere as he looked at the beautiful princess before him, mesmerized once more at that moment. Marius seemed ready to say more before being interrupted from the back of the room. Suddenly and loudly, the back doors of the keep flew open, revealing King Henry standing in the open doorway with two columns of halberd wielding soldiers behind him." My lords," The King of England began as he started to stroll his way into the hall, his hands hidden behind his back and under the red cape. It would seem he was holding two objects, but both were impossible to see. Following after him was a small army of English soldiers, all armored to the teeth and ready to serve their King. As Henry walked straight through the middle of the room toward his daughter, the two rows of soldiers split and hugged both sides of the wall until they had completely encircled the entire room. Watching this unfold, Marius looked between the king and the princess as his hand slowly moved to gently rest upon the head of his axe. As the King approached the steps, Marius side stepped a few, but remained at the bottom step. The King paid Marius no mind as he ascended the steps and took his place next to his daughter, not even so much as looking at her either." Before I announce who shall marry my daughter, I have a different announcement to make," King Henry began, his hands and what they held were still hidden under his cloak. As the King spoke, Marius slowly back off the final step toward his father and cousin. While doing so, most of the Scotsman started to move toward the center of the room. All eyes were upon the King. When Marius had reached his father, the Puppeteer revealed what he was hiding. The rotten head of Prince Marcus and the freshly severed head of King Marcus, still dripping with blood." The King is dead," Henry said loudly as he dropped the head of the prince, letting it roll down the steps before bumping into Marius's feet. He dropped King Marcus's head next, but not before pulling off the crown and putting it on top of the crown he already wore on his head. "Long live the King.""LONG LIVE THE KING!" Echoed every soldier along the wall, all those above on the second level, and the Clan Douglas supporters in the back by the door. The Scots in middle remained silent. It was as if no one drew a breath for near on half a minute as every man in the room understood the gravity of what this meant. Every hand in the room reached for a weapon, but none dare be the first to draw. The Campbell and MacKenzie supports all fumed silently with thoughts of war, but this was not King Henry's intention. The King did not plan on there being a war. He had taken steps to ensure it would not come to that. It was at this moment the King raised his hand." Gentlemen," He spoke plainly, and at the moment, every man standing around the top balcony had a crossbow aimed down at the Scots in the middle. The soldiers that the King marched in with all had their halberds aimed inwards as well. And lastly, every Scotsman loyal to Clan Douglas drew their swords, some twenty men, and stood in front of the exit. Only the Campbell and MacKenzie supporters remained with their weapons sheathed as each stared in apparent fear of the dire situation before them. Even Marius, though in a rage upon seeing the prince and king's heads fall down to his feet, dared not draw a weapon. Not only did King Henry's men have every advantage, but they outnumbered Marius and his kin five to one." It is time for me to announce who my future son-in-law will be," The King began once again, a look of grim satisfaction on his face as his hand remained raised. All of his soldiers clearly waiting for his command. "Fergus MacKenzie!" William, who's charming smile had completely faded from his lips, perked up a bit at the call of his brother's name. But the last name was all wrong. Fergus was a MacLeod...unless... William's eyes grew wide and looked to Malcolm, who had come to the same realization moments earlier. Their fates had been sealed. Before any man could say a word, King Henry dropped his hand. The signal was given. The sound of crossbows releasing their bolts filled the room. Bolts and arrows zipped through the air, each finding their target with brutal precision. Cries of pain and screams of horror soon overwhelmed the sound of bolts being loosed from the balcony above. A Campbell clansman had two arrows in his back when a third pierced him through the eye. Another MacKenzie supporter tried to hide under the body of his fallen brother, only to be hit with two bolts in his side anyway. Others tried to flee for cover, only to find none as the English soldiers and their halberds were ready and waiting to impale any Scot who fled the center of the room. As Marius looked on, he knew there would be no escape. He watched helplessly as his father fell, the chieftain's old body littered with several bolts. He had clearly been the most important target. Next William fell to his knees, having taken a bolt to his thigh and another in his shoulder. The sight would have been horrible for the princess to behold. Her father showed no mercy, watching the scene without so much as a wince, even as men screamed in agony and the gray stone floor became red with blood. Everything had gone according to plan. That is, unless Marius had something to say about it. With one bolt already in his shoulder, Marius jumped into action as quickly as he could. Drawing his sword, his eyes turned to the king and for a moment, their eyes locked. The rage and ferocity of the great MacKenzie was enough to even put a spark of fear into King Henry's eyes as he retreated two steps backward. Marius ripped the bolt from his right shoulder with a roar and charged toward the king, even as more bolts zipped past him. The two guards who were assigned to the princess stepped forward to face the Scot, and in a blur of a moment, one had been hacked down with Marius's sword and the other had been stabbed in the throat with the arrow Marius tore from his shoulder. The guards were two of the King's best soldiers and Marius cut through them like a cake. The rumors of his prowess were clearly well-founded. No one now stood between Marius and King Henry. His vengeance would be swift, violent, and brutal. Raising his sword to strike at the king, Marius found himself brought to a sudden halt. His sword still raised high, ready to strike the king down, Marius tried with all of his might, but his body would no longer listen. Then all at once, pain filled his chest and his sword slipped through his fingers to the ground with a crash. Looking down to the source of the pain, Marius's eyes beheld the point of a halberd sticking out of his chest. An Englishman had impaled him through the back. There was nothing else to be done. He could feel his life draining away with each passing moment. Searching for some peace in his final moments, his eyes searched before him for some measure of comfort until his gaze found the princess. He didn't even know her, but something stirred in his chest when he looked at her. His legs gave out from under him, and he fell to his knees, but his eyes did not look away from her. His gaze was one of pain and longing, almost as if he was begging for some form of comfort. But as quickly as his gaze found her, it was gone. The halberd was ripped from his back, taking Marius's life with it. With a loud thud, the Scotsman's limp corpse slammed onto the floor just before the Eleanor's feet. When the bolts stopped firing, a single cough could be heard from the center of the room. William, in agony, yet lived. In the moments that passed between them, a feeling unlike any she had ever experienced warmed from within her. At her words, a slow smile crept across the Scot’s face and inwardly her heart leapt. As if he had heard her most inner thoughts, the smile upon his lips grew and his eyes shined; a smile of his soul. Eleanor smiled at that, ever so lightly trapping her bottom lip between her teeth in an attempt to not appear so much like a giddy child. It was true to say that she had never met another living soul quite like man in front of her; his very person ignited a heated passion in her heart and at that moment she was actually happy to be her father’s daughter. Where she grew up, it was often that one would hear to flitter of young servant girls whispering amongst themselves when they believed no one was around; they would whisper about foolish little things like running away with their true love met only days before, or catching the eye of a stranger far across the room and knowing at that moment what love felt like. Eleanor was not familiar with the concept of love, she was not easily charmed by a man’s sweet words, and she had heard many; she could admit to never being in love. But now? At this moment she was starting to reconsider that statement. The smile that shined through Marius’ eyes threatened to melt her to the very spot she stood. As he seemed ready to say more, Eleanor’s smile grew, eager to hear his voice once more and the thick Scottish accent that hung from every word. But that would not be the case as the doors to the hall slammed open.“My Lords.” the King of England’s voice addressed the room as he entered through the open doors, a line of armed soldiers at his heels which parted to the left and right upon entering the hall. Confusion clouded the young woman’s face, and she took a step closer towards the Scot who now stood only a few feet away. Why on earth would there need to be so many armed men? She frowned, realization slowly dawning as her gaze scanned the room. Armed English soldiers now circled the entirety of the Scottish Clans aside from clan Douglas who had too stationed against the back doors, the only way of escape. Eleanor felt ill, her face visibly paler as her father approached the steps and ascended with not so much as a look towards either her or Marius. Reluctantly Eleanor took her eyes from the Scot as he stepped back towards his clansmen; she wanted to reach for him, to feel the touch of his skin against hers, to run away, to hide somewhere safe. And then her father revealed the hidden objects from beneath his deep red cape. The princess gasped loudly, eyes wide in horror as her hands quickly clasped over her mouth. Two severed heads rolled to the foot of the bottom step, and despite not being familiar with either poor soul, she had a very good inkling of who they had been. “What have you done?” she asked, her gaze finding her father to which she got no answer. The room was silent aside from the King who then spoke again, his demeanor unperturbed by the grotesque scene at his feet." It is time for me to announce who my future son-in-law will be," the king began, and Eleanor looked towards Marius with pleading eyes, this whole ordeal had to be a nightmare. "Fergus MacKenzie!"" Fergus MacKenzie?” She breathed barely finding her words. There had not been a Fergus MacKenzie presented to her, she didn’t understand. She hoped that the king had misspoke, but the arch of bolted arrows that sailed through the air at the wave of her father’s had proved that it was not so. Fear and shock paralyzed her as the Scottish clans were shot down and slaughtered like cattle right before her eyes. Arms limp at her sides, her hands trembled as her gaze flickered across the room in every which direction. “Stop This.” she shouted, her voice wavering. “Please. My king” she pleaded again, but her words were drowned out by the screams and cries of the slaughtered. “Please.” Eleanor’s words grew weaker as the carnage continued on, she prayed for a stray bolt to strike her heart. If there was a god above he would show her mercy and spare her this horror. How could the same blood of this man also run through her veins? She stared at her father, one might even suggest that he was enjoying it. But something moved towards them which caused the soldiers on either side of her to rush forward. “Marius!” Eleanor cried out in warning, but the Scot dealt with them with ease. She moved to rush forward, but her way was instantly blocked by another set of guards. “STOP THIS” she screamed now, panic upon her voice as Marius advanced towards her father. Eleanor pushed against the guards keeping her back, her fists upon their armored arms nothing more than a sullen thump. Blood. She was frozen, her voice an echo within her chest as her lips form his name. The halberd’s point shined crimson as it protruded from his chest and the sword fell with a clatter upon the stone floor. The danger now over, the resistance of the guards lessened and Eleanor broke through. Her vision blurred by tears she stumbled forward just barely managing to catch herself before falling to the ground. Their eyes met for a brief second, and then it was gone, Marius’ dead body falling at her feet. Eleanor stifled a series of sobs which was only followed by the sound the William MacLeod who was still miraculously alive. With the savage Scot now dead, King Henry recomposed himself, starting by wiping the blood of poor King Marcus from his hands. As his daughter pleaded, he didn't even seem to be listening to her. His dark eyes, a glimpse to his soul beneath, looked at her for only a moment before turning away. The moans of dying Scots and the corpses of others seemed so much more important to him than the pleas of his daughter. Once she was done, he watched on in silence for a moment before his cold and calculating eyes fell back to his daughter and the dead MacKenzie in disgust. He walked over to her, and only once he was towering above her did he speak." The only good Scotsman is a dead Scotsman, my sweet." The term of endearment almost stung as it rolled of his lips. He seems prepared to say more, but a small look of shock took to his face and his attention turned to a survivor as William interrupted the king." Fer what..." Brave William coughed, some blood spilling out onto the floor as he cleared his throat to speak. "Fer what yes have done, all of Scotland will rise ta avenge us. Scotland will be free!" A hacking cough shattered the inside of his body as more blood hit the floor, but despite the excruciating pain and extreme blood loss, the young chieftain fought with all of his might to rise to his feet. The bolt in his thigh remained, joined by two new bots in his chest, and a second pair in his back. Defiance, bravery, and strength seemed to run in his blood as it had in Marius's. Marius, Fergus, and William were all true highlanders to the bone. All the same blood and shared the same strength and impossible willpower. After a blatant struggle, and having almost fallen over twice, William finally succeeded in standing tall and proud. His sword was somehow still in his hand as he gently clutched the arrow in his abdomen, grimacing in pain. His agony apparent across the whole of his pale face. Once on his feet, the brave MacLeod looked down at his dead cousin with apparent sorrow in his eyes. But after a moment passed, his sad, but gentle gazed looked up to Eleanor." It's alright, Princess," William began softly, somehow managing to speak clearly as well as utterly without fear. "Yer about TAH marry a highlander and highlanders don't beg. Tell my brother, when ye see him:HOLD FAST." King Henry listened to the Scot's last words with a quirked brow, coldly amused by the MacLeod. The amusement, however, quickly faded. "Kill him." As every bolt was loaded into a crossbow, William looked up at every single one of them. He knew that his fate was sealed, but he did not give in to fear. Even as he looked at the instruments that would be used to kill him and the men wielding them, the brave Scotsman looked on dauntlessly. Knowing they would be his last words, William cried out loudly in Gaelic. "Scotland will be free!" Then all at once, every crossbow released their bolts and William MacLeod was no more. The number of bolts in his body and face made the once handsome man impossible to even see, hidden behind wood, feathers, and blood. Eleanor stood in a still silence her eyes wide and fixated on the dead body at her feet. Why was everyone dead, why would Henry do this? Was this a dream, it had to be a Nightmare. Marius. The Princess took a step back and slowly her hands lowered away from her face, a final sob sounding from trembling lips. Under normal conditions, the young woman prided herself on the ability to keep a level head, the ability she held to always pose a challenge to those who needed to knock of their high horse, but this? Her eyes finally lifted from Marius’ dead body and very slowly swept the room; this was not normal, this was a bloody massacre. Eleanor felt a shell of herself, a weak simple-minded child who was scared of the dark and unfortunately for the princess, the darkness was her father. What was Henry’s plan? Why do this? Why kill so many and who the bloody fuck was Fergus Mackenzie? The questions roiled within her mind but still she remained silent. Anger was slowly starting to boil over the grief that sat heavy and unmoving in the pit of her stomach. Eleanor stared at Marius’ corpse pleading him back to life. In the short moments they shared there was a part of her that truly believed that she would have been happy, despite all the uncertainly and the unfavorable situation they had found each other. GOD. Why was she being so foolish?! The King turned then his eyes finding her own and Eleanor felt her blood freeze. Advancing, Henry stopped just short of stepping on her toes, forcing her to look up in order to keep his gaze. He addressed her then with a term of endearment and never had a word felt so foreign to her. Dark slender brows knitted together, and a sneer graced itself upon her lips. Eleanor had a mind to speak then, a low clearing of her throat as she found her voice, her hands forming into tight fists, but another individual stole the attention of the king and soon the entire room. It honestly was an act of god above that had allowed William MacLeod to live. With blood dripping from his once smiling lips, he struggled to stand, his voice wavering for a moment before he summoned the very last bit of strength that resided within his body.“Fer what yes have done, all of Scotland will rise ta avenge us. Scotland will be free!" The sneer upon the Princess’ lips faded, a sullen frown taking its place as her heart ached for the man she had only just recently met. William was looking upon the dead bodies of his kin. She still held tight his gift to her, slowly nodding her head to reassure him that she would indeed carry his final message to Fergus. Hold Fast. A cold emotionless expression fell over Eleanor’s features, an uncanny resemblance to that of the King own features. Turning away from the slaughter, the last bolts were released putting a final end to Williams life. “Hold Fast” Eleanor repeated and set her attention the door she had entered from. There was so much she wanted to say, but right now she needed to keep those words to herself. She would play Henry's game, and she was determined to win. The King had shown his true colors, and now it was time for Eleanor to show hers.“I believe I have a husband to meet?”

Prologue - Southern Diplomacy (Balian & TheHappyMoonkin)|rating:4.0

Gaara-kun X BeautyMonster

We know what we're doing here. No one post, besides GAAR and Beauty if you are not them, don't post. But feel free to read along ^_^==============Skeleton Name:age:job:wants; (what ever the character wants like other characters)personality:looks like:======================Name:Lilly (Ann) Smith age:20 years old job:Singer and a dancer.wants;to be not wanted.personality:Sweet, nice, loving, caring, Seductive, and a klutz. Name:Stacy Love age:19 years old.job:Model.wants;Money like everyone else.personality:Sweet, shy, nice, clumsy, caring, Sexy, ( she won't wear her hair like that... she just has side bangs and long hair and black eyes. Name: Griffin Lee Revel Age: 22 Job: mafia boss Wants: to be rich, and well known among other mafias and thugs Personality: quiet, bossy, a bit sadistic Setting : Shall I say it's in the evening, around 6 o'clock, the boss is getting ready to get kidnap the girl. Lilly looked at herself in the mirror. She was going to a performance. She smiled slightly. Furthermore, she then grabbed her purse and then her cell then put it in her purse she then locked the door after walking out she fixed her dress she smiled and then looked at her Shoes She tucked her hair behind her ear she smiled as she began to walk to where she was supposed to perform she hummed one of the songs. As she twirled one of the locks of her hair she smiled. "Should we move now?" one of the less experienced men asked. "Nope, not yet." was Griffin's only reply. He waited for her to move past the guard that was in front of her dressing room, and then he grabbed her, covering her mouth with one hand. He pulled her out of the side door with speed and silence, not ebb giving her a chance to save herself. Furthermore, he threw her purse back into the building. She was tossed into an old, but well taken care of shiny black car. "Good evening Miss Smith." Griffin said with a sweet smile that would have suggested a decent young man, but he was far from that. His assistant spoke up. "We got the dumb bitch didn't we?" Griffin rolled his eyes and shot the man and the blood spattered all over him and the girl's white dress. "Pity, and I really liked you in that." he said as if he really cared. He'd get the dead man out of his car when they arrived. "Ivan, you're going to have to clean up the back, there's a rather nasty mess. He dragged her out of the car and into a building. "Now, give me the address of your parents." Lilly suddenly felt a hand over her mouth she freaked out. She wanted to scream but then, they were out of the house by the side door!! She felt herself in a seat, her back on the cushion she fixed her self scared she was trying not to speak she sighed she gulped. She then bit her lower lip maybe she can outsmart them? She heard someone she glared and wanted to slap him but. Then she didn't know wait he kidnapped her!! Wait her purse she looked for it. It was back in the house she glared even more, she let herself relax. She screamed as she heard a gun shot and blood on her white dress. She looked at the mess with disgust she closed her eyes as she covered her mouth from either seeing the mess and trying to stop herself from barfing. She then felt herself out of the car in a building she gasped she then said" what makes you think ill tell you" she glared harshly at the guy she was shaking from the mess still she removed her hand from her mouth and then said" what makes you think ill tell you" more clearly. She struggled she then stopped. Her plan. She closed her eyes and then said" I don't want blood on me" she whimpered she had to keep herself calm though. He laughed. "TSK, TSK....what makes you think I won't kill you if you don't tell me?" he was grinning like an insane person. "If you don't tell me, I'll have no one to ransom you to. If I can't get ransom, then what's the point in keeping you alive, huh?" he tilted her chin up towards him and smirked. He looked at her. "Aw, poor baby." he cut open a dog and threw the blood in her face. Lilly gulped as she heard him she said" you wouldn't kill me," she sighed looking down, but she felt her chin up she said" shut up. " But when blood was thrown in her face she screamed and then said' okay!! 1452 Wellington street, town home 18... 'she breathed she made the blood get off her face she wanted to wash up she hated being a perfectionist. She yanked her face out of his hand she kicked him and then went to try to escape, but there were guards. She gulped she didn't know what to do... Griffin looked pissed. He had a man who had written down the address for him. "Send the god-damn ransom letter. I and girly have a date." he grabbed her by the hair and yanked her to a bathroom. He cut her clothes off with a Swiss army knife. "Take a shower." he said and gruffly shoved her in. He stood there, watching so he could prevent the possibility of her escaping. Lilly sighed and then when he grabbed her by the hair yanking at her, she frowned. She looked around as she has seen where she was, A bathroom she felt air hit her body, her eyes widened and then gulped. She then covered her self hiding in the tub and behind the curtain she said" hey!! That wasn't nice. " She glared and when he told her to take a shower she closed the curtain starting the shower, the pulling on the lever to make it into a shower she sighed she felt the warm water on her face trickling down her bloody body. He ripped open the curtain with no regard to her personal privacy and gave her soap and shampoo. "I'll watch, thank you. Don't need you trying to get away again." he glared, still holding a grudge from when she'd kicked him. Lilly screamed as he opened the curtain she said" I have a right of hiding my body from you, I am a flipping virgin it feels awkward with you in here with me" she looked at the soap and then the shampoo she then said" I will not run when I am naked its awkward. " She looked at him like he was crazy. She put the shampoo in her hand then put the shampoo that was in her hand in her hair scrubbing she then rinsed off and then sighed she looked around for a sponge. "Don't talk to me like that girl!" he said in an angry tone and flipped a gun out quicker than she could ink. "What are you looking for" he asked as she seemed a bit confused. He'd forgotten to give her a washcloth. Lilly gasped as she has seen him flip a gun out she blinked at it. She giggled nervously" hey play nice now. Im looking for a sponge or a washcloth. " She kind of gulped. She bit her lower lip and then wondered. Why he is so mean. She wanted to cry. She put her finger on the gun slowly lowering it. Her heart pumping... fast" can you please hand me a washrag. " She was quieter. She always had a low self-esteem... He sighed. "I forgot to give you one." he yelled for a man named smith, or at least that's what Griffin called him. The man was there quicker than anyone could move. "Could you get a washcloth for our.guest." he wasn't sure what else to call her. The man returned and Griffin handed the cloth to her. "Here." he said lowering his tone from angry to calm. He'd seen he was terrifying her. For him there was a time to be a badass, but there was also time to be kind. Lilly gasped as he yelled then a second a guy was there. wow, nice service she thought. She then looked at him and then him leaving then handing her a washcloth she sighed she wanted to hide from this person, but now he is being calm? What the heck? She rolled her eyes she then put the washcloth in the water, she closed her eyes and then sighed as she put the soap on the washrag then washing herself. It was awkward you know being a virgin and now having to bathe in front of someone. Griffin closed his eyes for a second, the sound of running water making him sleepy. He then shook his head to keep himself fully awake. He looked over her. She had a nice body. Eventually he pulled her out and sent her with a female worker of his. She leads the girl to a room that was heavily guarded. She also handed her very nice, but swanky clothes. "Here, get dressed." the woman ordered. Lilly felt her being dragged out then put in a room, but then she was giving clothes she looked at the clothes as she was told to get dressed she got dressed. She looked around as she was slowly getting dressed. She looked in a mirror she said" can I dry and curl my h-air?" she looked at the woman. Just curious. She didn't want her 'head bitten off' she closed her eyes slightly. She was tired. She then sighed... She hated this. She wanted to be home not near a cruel, cold-hearted man. Furthermore, she gulped. Griffin slipped into a warm shower after the hostage was gone. It was ok for him to watch her, but not ok for her to watch him. The hot water soothed him and as he stepped out he felt refreshed. He put on a fresh pair of clothes and them went to see his guest. "I hope you find your room to your liking, because you'll be here a while. He sat on the bed in the room as he spoke to her. Lilly turned to looked at him, she looked sat down and sighed said" this room, " she liked it. But it just. wasn't her. She sighed. She went around the room to look around one of the Japanese cover things. Furthermore, she smiled slightly. She always wanted one of those. She sighed. She said" see soon I will leave since you know I've been running from these people for quite some time it was just surprising how you took me it was ..." she snapped her fingers as she tried to figure a word she then said" unexpected. " She sighed" if I expected it, I wouldn't be here now" she turned around leaning on a wall looking at him who was sitting on the bed. She didn't like this. Somehow he started to feel bad for her. A look passes his face that suggested he felt bad for taking her. JE decided to leave the room. "Donner's at six. That's in thirty minutes downstairs, if you're late you go hungry." he left the room and went to get things ready for dinner. Lilly looked at him as he left, She just rolled her eyes. Why did she have to dress this way it wasn't her... she kept staring in the mirror. She couldn't believe herself. Why was she here when she can fight herself. She bit her lower lip and then sighed. Looking down she shook her head then laid on her stomach. She then yawned. Wanting to escape. She wished she can. Hamm. She looked around. She was on the foot of the bed looking one way. Where??(NO FEELINGS BAD :PP) Griffin yawned as he didn't really have anything to do at the moment. He decided to go check on his hostage and give her the good news and the bad news. He walked in feeling really smug. "Hello. Well, I have a few things to tell you." he smirked at her, suggesting he had an evil idea. "Your family responded rather quickly. My men looked up that address and got a phone number. They've agreed to give 1 million dollars for your return. That's the good news. The bad news is, after they hand us the money, we're going to shoot you anyway." he laughed a bit. "But if you say anything during the trade, we'll kill your family as well." he had another horrible plot. Within seconds, he had her pinned to the bed. He hovered over her, a slight upturn of his lip that wasn't really a smile, but almost resembled one. His lips went to her neck, and he nibbled along there down to her collar bone. He wasn't going to let this girl remain a virgin. His hand slid up her thigh, teasing at her. Then he crashed his lips down on hers, being gentle enough not to bruise them. He grabbed a leather belt and planned to make this highly unenjoyable for her. He brought the heavy leather down on her legs, instantly making them turn red. Lilly sighed she heard someone, she looked at the voice she has seen the evil guy she frowned crossing her arms and then putting her hands in her lap and said" I don't want to die..." she shook her head" and my family no, just leave them alone please. " She has then seen him making his way to her. What was he doing? She felt him hovering over her making her to lay down, she felt herself being pinned she gulped she was scared her heart was pumping really fast. She was scared. She felt her neck being kissed and then her collarbone. She exhaled slowly. Feeling his hand go up and then she gulped. She hated this but then suddenly she felt lips on hers. She was so scared. She didn't want to lose it like this. She felt a leather belt on her legs she closed her eyes tighter. She didn't want this. She frowned... she then opened her eyes she couldn't watch. She closed her eyes. He switched the thick leather across her thighs again. This was fun for him, but he knew it was horrible for her. He slid his hand farther up, touching her thighs quite close to a part of her body that his hands had no right to go to. Suddenly a knock on the door stopped him. "Sir.you have a visitor." a woman's voice summoned him, and he climbed off of the girl he'd been torturing. He left and let the girds watch her. One of the female guards looked at her sadly. "You poor girl...he's going to do horrible things to you." the woman sad, the tone in her voice suggesting she too had suffered at the hands of Griffin. Lilly felt the hand get more and more closer her heart was pumping faster but then a woman's voice she gulped. Then him getting off of her she has seen him leave. The woman spoke. She said" can you make him s-stop" she gulped. She was scared. She didn't know what to do. She sighed she looked at the belt she frowned she tried to get it off, and then she didn't want to be touched... She whimpered. She looked at the woman. She felt tears going down her face. She was so scared. Oh no, Her mother and father!! She stood up falling she stayed there she put her hand in front of her putting one arm over the other and then put her head on her arms she cried. Her legs were crossed. Griffin went down to dare a man with a gun pointed straight at his face. He gulped and almost considered going for his own weapon, but he knew he had no chance to get it. A bullet hit his leg, ripping a shrill scream from his lungs. He fell to the ground and then his men grabbed him, taking him to a car. They also got the Lilly from upstairs and put her in the car also. They all drove off and Griffin was still crying out in pain. The woman guard that had been with Lilly held the screaming man and tried to take a look at his leg. She went a bit pale. "We're going to have to do this in a very unsanitary way.....he's going to lose his leg if we can't get something to clean the wound." the man driving swerved into a parking lot and ran inside a small store. Griffin had tears running down his face. He was not one to cry, but being shot was something even the strongest would cry over. Lilly felt her being grabbed then put in the car she looked out the window. She knew how to clean the wound, but she would gag. She sighed. She hated this. She gulped. She bit her lower lip. She turned to look at the guard and said" I know how to fix it but, I am going to gag because of easy gag reflexes. She looked at Griffin and said" who shot you? My father. I think my father should have. "She sighed. She looked down. She has seen tears she would be crying to if she got hurt. Furthermore, she cries over mostly everything that hurts. Furthermore, she smiled. She then sighed. It was payback she felt violated. She put her hands in her lap she was cold. She looked down, swanky clothes she rolled her eyes. The woman shook her head. "I can dress if just fine. I just need the supplies. We have nothing in this damn car." the man guard came back and had bandages, tweezers, and a bottle of rubbing alcohol. He also brought a bottle of vodka. "Get the hostage in the front. She has easy gag reflexes. The last thing we need is for her throwing up. If she barfs on him, he'll get infected and that could be fatal." Lilly was moved into the passenger side of the car. "Alright... Griffin, honey, put your legs in my lap ok?" he obeyed the woman as she asked him to do that. She grabbed the tweezers, then looked at the bullet. She shivered. Furthermore, she knew he was going to be really loud. Furthermore, she ripped it out, and he screamed louder and higher pitched than a woman going into labor. His head hit the window as he flung it back in pain. "It's ok, baby it's going to be ok." the woman tried to soothe him. "I-I'm not a d-damn baby...keep going." he hissed, but from the tears that flowed down his face, he looked like a big baby. She put alcohol on his wound, wrapped it up, and then he smiled a bit. "Thanks." he said, but from his voice she knew he was still hurting. She turned him around so that he was laying in her arms and his legs were propped up on the seat. She wiped the tears from his face and then kissed his forehead. Furthermore, she pushed the hair away from his face and kissed his lips softly. Furthermore, she deepened it and them he moaned a little. He hands slid down to the waist of his pants and he shivered visibly a shook his head no. "Not here." was all he said. "You did really well." she whispered. She sat him up a little and started feeding him vodka. She knew if he passed out he wouldn't hurt so bad. He drank heavily and eventually did black out. She still held him. It seemed odd that this woman held him like he was her lover, but what Lilly didn't know was this was Griffin's sister. It was a bad relationship between siblings, but then again, he was mafia. He did as he pleased and had no morals. Lilly didn't figure she felt her somewhere else she gasped she put her hands on the edge of the seat as she gripped it tightly. She gulped. She didn't know what to do. She knew that he would take her virginity. She looked up then down as a tear rolled down, she wanted to go home and not deal with him. She wanted to kill him. As she thought the last idea. She felt her grip on the seat get tighter. She sighed. Hearing this man scream in the back. She bit her lower lip. She hated hearing people scream. She needed her cell to tell her father not to do it. Wait was that a moan she just heard. She rolled her eyes as she thought, ' always gets what he wants palleeaasse" she put her hands together looking down she mouthed' please lord, help me get free from this horrid man, I want to become free again and not live scared all the time. " She sighed as she put her hands down into her lap. Yes she was a Christian. Ugh wait I'm a singer? I can sing... wait no... she didn't want to be raped!! She knew it would get him wanting it and she didn't want it. She whispered' god dammit'. Griffin woke up about a day later from his drunken state and felt a good bit better, though he still couldn't walk on his leg. They were in a different part of the country now, and they were far from civilization on a little farm. He was being taken well care of. Lilly sighed she was in the same room, on a chair, She was staying quiet. Why. She is so stupid, she needs to get away from here, but she didn't know where she was. She looked at her ankles that had shackles she sighed and then wondered. When should she try to go. She looked at the person seeing opening their eyes smiled. Griffin yawned and stretched. He loomed at the prisoner and then the guards that surrounded them. She seemed to be properly watched, and no escape could be managed it seemed. He looked for his sister. "Kari." he cried, reveling the woman Guards's name. She perked up and ran to him. "Yes?" she seemed a bit to excited that he was awake. "Can you bring me some food? I'm hungry." she went of to get him something. "Well, it seems as if you're still stuck with us. Your father was an idiot for shooting me. I'll kill him if I see him again." Lilly sighed she crossed her arms leaning back she crossed her legs she was happy he didn't take her virginity yet. She heard him whine a name. She rolled her eyes looking over to the side. Seeing the woman come and go to him then go away. Then, when he spoke about her father, " I think he had the right to, I mean you kidnapped his only daughter. " She raised her eyebrow then relaxed. She sighed. Then she looked at him and said" ill find the way to get out of this. I don't want to lose my virginity." Griffin shrugged. "Too bad. I down ask what you wanted did I?" he laughed and then smirked at her evilly. "I'll take what ever I want from you." he knew he had to wait until his leg healed, but he planned on taking her when he was strong again. The fact her father had shot him gave him even mora reason to torture her. Lilly looked at him and said" i don't know. " She rolled her eyes as she looked at the side. She sighed when he told her that he can basically do whatever he wants. She looked away. She knew that he was going to take it away from her eventually. She closed her eyes and then put her hands between her mid-thigh. She couldn't believe this. Furthermore, she still felt violated... Kari came back with some food for Griffin and even fed him. He had perfect use of both hands, she just thought it would be good to pamper him even more. He finished his food and lightly kissed Kari's jaw. "Thank you." he said with a faint smile towards his sibling. She was his friend with benefits, but nothing more. Both knew this. [/B]Lilly rolled her eyes as he was fed. She looked away from. She wanted to get away. She looked from the corner of her eye seeing that he kissed the jaw she got up and tried t walk, but she was flung back and into the chair she crossed her arms. Furthermore, she hated this, Ugghhhh. She out her hands on her eyes and then sighed. She hated this. "Aw...so sad to think we're going to kill you." Griffin laughed. "Do you think we should sell her for sex?" He smirked evilly. He knew he was evil and he embraced it. It was fun to see her fear and hate for him. Lilly's eyes widened when he said about killing. She shook her head she gulped. She heard him say something about selling her for sex. She frowned and said' n-no. Please don't" she frowned. She bit her lower lip and then sighed. She bit her lower lip she looked at her ankle she tried to get out she hated this... she didn't want to do this. Furthermore, she shook her head... He smirked at her. "Well, then I suggest you be a good bitch eh?" He was laughing, making his slightly female features light up with an evil gleam. Lilly frowned, as she looked down letting her hair fall in front of her face she sighed and then just put her hands on her knees. Then glared. She looked away from him still trying to get the thing that was on her ankle off of her. He sighed deeply. "Will you please just stop already? You're annoying the hell out of me." he glared daggers at her. "You do want to live, don't you? Because at this rate, you're looking at death the second I get well enough to rape and kill you." Lilly looked at him and said" I feel like a flipping captive that a thing is around my ankle. Its just" she sighed SNF then wondered. She didn't know what to do. She said" I do want to live." she then heard the rape then kill she said" you know that's called using and i don't like to be used. Well i wouldn't be used ever" she sighed leaning back. "Idiot girl! Don't you get it? You ARE a captive." he frowned at her. "I came use you however the hell I want." he knew he could, and she couldn't stop him. She was weak and he was strong. He flipped out a gun from his jacket. "I'm fact, I could waste your pathetic ass right here if I wanted too." he shot so close she could feel the wind from the bullet on her face. Lilly looked at him, She looked down she frowned. She hated that she was a captive and dumb. Maybe she can dye her hair blonde. Hmm. She hated being weak. But she somewhat can fight back like trip which is somewhat good to use isn't it? She didn't want him to know that trick. Well maybe she should just give in, be quiet, only sing and yeah. She felt wind past her. She looked up seeing a gone he almost went ghost white. She gulped. She was officially scared, seeing that the gun was pointed at her. She was about to choke when she gulped once. That's how scared she was. He laughed his laugh that sounded like it would be one of a sweet young man, not a sinister, evil prick. He looked at ashen face. "I never miss darling, so I'd advise you to keep that pretty little mouth of yours shut." he was still grinning like a maniac. Lilly looked at the man she was scared now. She won't speak unless told. Ugh. She bit her lower lip. She didn't know what to do. She looked down. She felt a tear being made. She felt. Bad. She sighed. She put her hands in her lap. She grabbed paper that was closer to her and then a pen she wrote some lyrics. Tapping the beat. Then writing it down... Griffin was staring at her, amused and curious. "What are you doing?" he asked, wondering indeed what it might be that she was doing. She was writing something, that much he knew. "What are you writing about?" he would just take the paper of she didn't tell him, but he figured he'd ask first. Lilly looked at him once he asked. Then looked down her sweet voice finally spoke right after the third time. She said" well a song" she sighed then bit her lower lip and then wondered. She didn't know what to do. She sighed. She then let go. She put it on a table along with the pen and didn't know what to do. She truly didn't... He just nodded and pretended not to have any interest in what she was doing. Lilly rolled her eyes and then sighed she put her head on her shoulder. She was exhausted. Soon, She fell asleep. She didn't feel comfortable but yet she did. Maybe she just needed sleep badly. Griffin watched her sleep for a while. He was plotting how to get the money, kill her, and not get shot by her father. He was brainstorming ideas. Lilly soon woke up, she blinked HHH... maybe like hmm she wanted to keep this whole treaty safe she would get the money, then save it from harm. She smiled slightly, like the whole mafia thing was a dream. She rubbed her eyes. She then looked around. She gulped.(this can be like a long time maybe in the morning in a different place. IDK butch I got an idea how he should get the money, get a tracking device on Lilly, then make her go get the money from her parents and bring it to him ?? IDK it was an idea) Griffin smirked. "Well, good morning." he laughed.((yeah, good idea ^^ I like it.)) Lilly rubbed her eyes sh seen him, better ..." umm mm" she was confused..." where are we?" she looked around she tried to get up, but she couldn't move she looked at her wrists and then legs her eyes widened then looked at the guy she was scared. Oh, no. She tried to get out... "Now listen, be a good girl and cooperate. I put a tracking device on you. You are to go get the money from your parents and then meet me at this address." he stuffed the paper with the address in her bra. "Good luck and don't try to escape, or I'll kill you. Any questions?" Lilly looked at him as he spoke. She gulped she has seen him stuff something in her bra. She sighed and then bit her lower lip. " Fine... ill do it" she sighed looking down. " She bit her lower lip. She tried to get out of what she was in. So she can change. " Can I wear something else though. " She stopped. Leaving this dress unzipped she gulped. She tried to get out of the shackles. He unfastened the shackles. "Don't forget to meet me." He left here alone and left the building entirely. She was free on her own. Lilly looked down as she heard his footsteps defend. She closed her eyes and then bit her lower lip. On her own now. Should she not do this or what?" she wondered. Oh, yeah she needed to go home. She got up and then sighed she put some clothes on it was so embarrassing. What this guy does. She sighed. She began to walk to her parents house, once she did, she knocked" hey. " she came into the house once they opened the door. She said" so do you think you can handle the money? I mean I can keep it save. With that. Her parents like were frightened and said' no.' so then she offered to keep it safe, and they gave the wad of money. She glanced at it. Smiling Farley she hugged them" I promise to keep it safe" she smiled and then turned looking down. How can she do this to her parents she remembered. Address. She grabbed it out of her bra. Oh, no. That place. The street corner near a cat house. She rolled her eyes and began to walk that way. She looked down she felt bad. Maybe she can run. Hmm, she stopped in the middle of a street. He smirked as he watched her from nearby. He had a gun, and would follow to see if she really met him at the address. If not, he'd shot. He planned on selling her to the cat house. He'd be rid of her. Lilly didn't know what to do. Should she go where the place was? She turned to the opposite direction not sure what to do. She had a feeling he was close. He laughed and jumped down from where he was hiding. "Not planning to run off are you?" he grabbed her and the money. "Come now darling, we have an important date." he was smirking and threw her into a black Mercedes. He drove her to the cat house and got her in one clothes that would make her sale for a much fairer price. Lilly gasped as he jumped she jumped. Closing her eyes tightly and opening them, but now she was in a grip she frowned she leaned back in the car, crossing her arms. " Stop it I can dress myself..." she frowned. She did it herself. She hated him. Where was she going. She has seen what she was wearing. More slutty clothes. She was a virgin... No. (we can do as planned the cat house but a month later he visits and sees her act like anybody else and wants her back lol. He sold her for a very nice price and just left her there. He went back to his car and left. ~one month later~ Somehow, Griffin had felt odd lately. He'd been worried about that girl. Why did he even care? He frowned. Somehow he almost felt like....no....that wasn't possible...he didn't care about anyone, and he certainly didn't fall in love. But then, why did he miss her so much? Lilly walked around and sighed she was in a swanky halter top and a mini skirt that was black. Also, pink flip-flops. The Boss called her she came down the stairs, her curls jumping every time she went down a step. She said" yes boss?" (he can like to go in with his friends and what not and the boss is a differ guy. If that's okay. :)) Griffin gathered his men and went into the cat house. He wanted that girl back, and he was willing to pay any price. He walked in to speak with the boss about buying her. Lilly sat on the boss's desk She kissed him. She was happy. She smiled. She said" so that's all you wanted was that?" She smiled kind of deviously. She heard the door close. Furthermore, she heard her boss telling her to leave. Furthermore, she went back where she was. Up at a pole, dancing. She was happy. Griffin's eye twitched just slightly. She seemed so much happier here. He sighed. "Come on, let's go." He looked at the boss. "Thank you for your time, but I believe we have reconsidered. We will not be buying today." He walked out of the office and his men looked at him funny. "Why aren't we buying?" They looked confused. He shrugged. "I had a change of mind and heart. Feel free to have a look around if you would like. I paid for us to come in and stay awhile. I'll be in the car." He seemed to be pouting, but the men let him be. They went to watch the girls dance. They saw Lilly. "Hey! Isn't that the girl we sold to this place?" They nodded. "Yep. She looks a little to happy. I wonder if she's drugged or something. I bet that's why the boss is all upset. He wanted to buy her back right? What's up with him? He seems to actually like her or something." Lilly looked down and then seen the guys. Then the boss smiling. Then she went over to them, she crossed her arms she looked at Griffin she said" so you just look at me ad not save me from this hell?" She looked at him and then at the guys. She crossed her arms tapping her foot. " You know I got a lot better at sex and now I enjoy chains and whips." she then said" why I don't know I changed. " She sighed. He was hot and wanted to be with a hot guy. Not in a whore house. She didn't like it there. Hopefully, he changed to. She sighed. Looking down. He looked confused. "You seem so happy here, and you acted like you and the boss were dating or something." He just looked completely puzzled. "I came to get you out until I saw how happy you looked. I didn't feel like making you unhappy again." Lilly said" you think I'm happy. I have sex with 14 guys a day!! I don't like being touched by the ages..." she sighed and then said" if you don't want me to be happy then fine go. Let me be in hell" she sighed. He stared at her, then went back to her boss and worked out a deal. "Come on." was all he said, and he expected her to follow. Lilly smiled a little more as he said" come on" She then said" you know I actually let you do anything now. Since you're a perv. And I'm a little whore now' she smiled following him. He snarled at her. "I'm not a perv. You can be a whore all you want, bit I am NOT a perv. Get that through your thick skull." he slammed the door to the car as he climbed in. She had some nerve to come at him like that. He wasn't a pervert. "Besides, you've changed. How do you know I haven't?" Lilly looked at him" So, I still want to get out of here can I go with you?" She looked down. Hoping he would okay it. She bit her lower lip. " But I think you would like the way I changed I plead for guys to touch me. You want to touch girl seen though not caring if they want to or not. " She looked at him. He sighed. "Fine. You can come, but we're dropping you off at your house with your parents. I have a life now, and I don't really do much in the business anymore. I bought a house and I live alone. My old buddies and I just go out for a drink sometimes." he didn't seem very interested in being around her. He down like the way she was acting. It digested him completely. He wanted a girl that was his and only his. Lilly sighed" okay. Fine never mind I don't have any interest in my parents right now. I want to slit my throat. It's not just cause of him, it's everyone she turned away from him and then went into the house. She then went to the room and did what she wanted to do. Slit her throat. As this was happening a young girl was walking down the dark street. In a skirt and off the shoulder shirt that was purple, her skirt is black and ends at in the middle of her upper thigh. She bit her lower lip. She tucked her long blonde hair behind her ear. Furthermore, she has seen a car. A hot guy in it. She smiled a little. (I added the new girls profile by the way) ((holy fucking shit!!! WTH??? :(she committed suicide...)) Griffin got out of the car and sighed. He really couldn't believe what was happening. He waved a bit at the girl and sighed. (ME EITHER, um i are her character so he can have person all by himself btw)Stacy seen the guy she smiled a little. She didn't know she walked toward her house, she was a virgin and hated it. Not sure. She sighed and then wondered. She bit her lower lip and then sighed. Furthermore, she smiled She went inside her house. Griffin had been watching her. She was very pretty and he kind of wondered what she was like as a person. He hoped maybe he'd see her sometime again. His house was across the street, and he walked in, going to the kitchen. Stacy bit her lower lip and then wondered about that guy. Was he nice? Well he was hot. Since it was late she laid on her bed and fell asleep. When the next day came she woke up and got a cup of coffee in a cup, get dressed in a set of short shorts, which was light jean colored, and a tank top which came down really low and was white with black lace on the top. Since it was really warm. She put on flip flips, they were black too. She wasn't Gothic or nothing she had like a lot of black clothing. She bit her lower lip and then began to do her hair and curl it and then put hoop earrings in cleaning her belly piercing she just got it in. then began to do her makeup.

Gaara-kun X BeautyMonster|rating:2.0

Grail of Andrysor (Carly & Melendrith) [NC Exotic-Extreme]

The past year had been bad for the empire of Anderson. What had started at first as whispered sightings and rumors of oversized monsters that stole people away into the darkness, had become a full-fledged invasion of somewhat organized demonic beasts, with a taste for the flesh of men and women, albeit in totally different ways... but not many would learn of the difference until it was far, far too late? The taint of demons had infested the land and were now rooted here in this plane, no longer outsiders, but "natives" with no concern for being banished. As allies failed to respond to calls for help, the king of Anderson could only surmise they were either facing the same problem or had long been overrun. As it was, only Author, the capital of the kingdom, was left fallen, the rest had been overrun and most of the people either dead or consumed by a darker fate. There weren't many left who might brave the dangers of the wilderness, which only too recently was the civilized countryside of the kingdom. Based on diviners, there was one possibility that might have a hope of dislodging the creatures that now roamed the land, that was fabled Grail of Cleansing. However, its location was not known to those of Anderson, although it is said the city-state of Malayan, known for its sages, had a library that held much forgotten knowledge and likely had a clue how to go about finding or recovering the Grail. But the city-state had long since fallen silent, and though it was once adjacent to the territory of Anderson, it was across a long distance. Since the "civilized" roads no longer held much draw, what with the absence of hamlets and villages, they had need of enterprising souls to make it through the thick forest of Redwood. Even before the demon beasts came, even a party would be hard pressed to survive what beasts and monsters might roam the thick forests, and now it seemed even more insurmountable. Now, there were not many able-bodied people left in the city, and they would not send someone who would surely not make it, it needed to be someone with good survival, woodcraft, and most importantly, an innate ability to survive contact with the taint of the demon beasts. Getting through in one piece was more important than anything else, and it would have to be someone sent to carry the hopes of the kingdom upon his or her very being. Who would it be ? (king of Anderson already knew Arya Long caster, for she was a noble and had dinned with the King on several occasions, and were even family friends. She wasn't of royal blood however, so she wasn't in line for the throne, but she had titled all the same and wealth. Although she had learned how to hold herself in high society, she had spent most of her youth being trained in ways of the sword as well as the rogue. She was very flexible, fast, and had excellent balance and technique, and could best the best in swordsmanship or rogue skills, surprising all but herself. Unannounced she entered the throne room when none other than the king was present and curtsied quickly." My Lord, I do believe I may be of service in ways other than to be a pretty face at your table. I have heard the issues our kingdom faces and there is something about me, you should know that may change the destiny of the land." Arya blushed and continued." I recently have been to a fortune-teller and the old crone said that I was different to other people, and may be its savior if things turned the way they should. You see I am a catalyst she said. Something that can change the demons and corrupted powers and use it to teleport to places. She didn't mention what that was or how to go about it - but did mention it came with its own complications, which she didn't expand on. If she is right, it may be an option you can't look beyond, where I can use the demons own power to our advantage. I am good with the sword, and do have skills most noble's shun which could help me survive alone. If you wish I will try and make contact with Malayan and find what scrolls I can regard the Grail of Cleansing." Arya then handled her necklace "The fortune-teller told me to take this, and that it is enchanted, and that it can prevent me dying by the hand of demons or the corrupted. She mentioned it has a cost, but doesn't all magic ? If you accept me as you hope to help the kingdom, my only demand is that you gift me with a bag of holding, for I am not strong enough to carry all of what I need while dealing with demons. Also, I request it filled with adventure gear, camping supplies, food and water, all else I can manage myself." Arya then looked at the king in the eye and smiled. "I think It's time I gave back to the kingdom, for it has given me and my family a lot in the past. Most nobles think they are entitled to it and contribute nothing. But, like the old crone said, I am not like most other nobles" King Keillor was in deep thought, brooding over the problem when Arya would enter. He looked upon with a surprised look on his face, he was in truth only about his early 40s, but due to the situation faced by the kingdom of late, he looked like he might have aged a decade in the past one year. He watched as she curtsied, and listened to what she had to say. His eyes ran over her form, watching her confident step in her pretty white dress. Though he did not have to adhere to courtesy, he was well-bred and kept his peace until the person offering help had finished, though he had deep misgivings. Finally, he saw her handle her necklace and speak with that impeccable confidence and sass that Arya was well known for, no matter how dark the situation was, and it weighed on his heart to imagine that such a bright spark of light might be lost if things did not turn out for her as the fortune-teller said." I see." He paused and added. "Thank you lady Arya Long caster. If what you say is true, then perhaps you are the one that Anderson needs right now. If you are determined and set, then the bag you need and the supplies you require will be provided, along with what maps we have of the area, that is no issue. Although right now what pains me most is the idea of yourself out there alone in the woods where darkness takes the form and shape of beasts." He took in her demeanor, her poise, the way she smiled as she looked him in the eye. "Yet... we have known each other for many years, and I can see the determination set in your brow, and from your smile you truly believe it." He licked his lips slightly, and then stood up and bowed before her. "Anderson thanks you for your service, lady Long caster. In meantime, we will do all we can for your family, while you are away." He then called for his guards and ministers, and they would come and prepare as he instructed them. There were those, she could see, that disagreed with him, but they were not strangers, and surely she was not naive enough not to know what dangers waited out there. What was dangerous even before the fall, was surely worse now, no doubt, yet she came. There must be something she believed in, something more than herself. He prayed to the Gods that she was right.==========Arya would depart Author via the east gate early next morning, which led to the road which headed a mile towards the fringes of the forest, accompanied by an escort of four guards. Along the way, they watched for signs of trouble, but nothing bothered them until they reached the forest path, and it started to get thicker. For those familiar with the way, they would know that the path continued about another half a mile west into the forest, before coming to an end, where lumberjacks used to work a sawmill just under a decade, before the forest started to be more populated by beasts and what not that made the logging and the transport out from there to Author unfeasible. Once the guards had departed, even in the light of the rising sun overhead, the crown of the trees around cast long shadows over the path ahead. Left to her own devices, Arya could follow the path further west into the forest, or strike out into the undergrowth, for a straight-line to Malayan was north-west from here. (Arya Long caster was equipped as she requested from the king. She wasn't really sure if she was going to get her bag of holding, as they were highly sorted after and those that had them seldom parted with them for any price, as they were very convenient and have saved many a travelers life with what they could carry. Being able to carry a months worth of supplies of food and water, as WELL as camping and adventuring gear, change of clothes and room to spare, while still being a pouch that sat snugly on ones belt and only weight a few pounds regardless of its contents - was a boon to merchants, wanderers, explorers, pioneers, settlers, farmers and especially adventurers and mercenaries and those in the army and navy. Luckily for Lady Arya it wasn't the only magical item she had, she also had a wand of mending, which could come in handy, for clothes and other stuff. She had bought it with her thinking that it would be of more use when she was alone in the woods then on a shelf back home. So too she had the strange necklace of life-saving, given to her from the fortune-teller. Lady Arya never really knew what to make of fortune-tellers, there were con artists a plenty, and the fighter-rogue woman wasn't an expert at judging people. She was however an expert with the sword. A slim short sword swung in a scabbard on her left hip. It was lighter, thinner and shorter than the short swords the guards of the king used, but she didn't have the strength of a man, and relied on being quick and precise and having expert technique. In truth, she was better than an expert with the short sword, she thought she might be a master swordswoman, but the guards she trained with didn't say so. Although many of them spared with her at once, to give her experience facing multiple opponents, she suspected the trainers didn't like the idea of one so young with little experience holding that title. Perhaps they didn't like the idea of a WOMAN holding the title of sword master. It could be especially humbling to others considering she had refined other skills as well, ones that would suit a rogue. Learning skills like picking pockets, picking locks, moving silently, hiding in shadows and the likes confused her parents no end. They thought being a noble woman one wouldn't need such skills. In truth Arya didn't really need them, she didn't need money, being born with a silver spoon in her mouth, and didn't really need to hide among others, but she was fascinated by the types of things one can get up to with such skills. How many people find a locked door and do NOT want to know what's on the other side ? What about locked chests ? What about freeing a friend that is chained to a wall ? These things likely wouldn't be encountered often. Unless one looks for adventure. And this noble woman did. Why adventure alone ? Well in truth she didn't want to, but with the fortune-teller saying that the powers she can channel from demons and changed beasts would be a personal thing, she thought it maybe best if she set out alone. And now she had. She didn't wear armor, her fighting style relied on being flexible and nimble and avoiding blows, and armor would make that difficult. She did have a few healing potions. Of moderate strength, they were common, and she really didn't consider them magical, but they were. She had three of them, common but expensive. Hmm, best to avoid being injured in the first place. The noble was actually more worried about poison. She didn't think to get a potion or vial of neutralize poison. She thought of turning around now and doing just that but decided against it, there always would be another potion one would want, like remove paralysis, or remove curse or remove blindness, the list went on, and she didn't have the money for all of them. Clerics sold their potions for a fortune, and although Arya was a noble, she didn't have that kind of money, well not yet anyway. Arya thought more about treasure now. The idea of receiving enormous amounts of gold and gems and magical objects was a lure that made the decision to set out on her own for her. It wasn't to save the kingdom, that was just what she told the king. If she DID save the kingdom and gave fame to her family, great ! But being insanely rich would be better. Still you needed civilization to spend gold, so the idea of saving it did work hand in hand with her main aspiration. Arya had wondered some distance before she noticed that the forest encompassed her.(checked her equipment. She had her fine steel slender short sword in her scabbard on her belt. A fine steel dagger, weighted for throwing, in its sheath on her other hip, on the same belt. And on the same thick leather belt was a water skin, and her bag of holding that contained everything else. It also contained some gold in coins, she wasn't sure if there would be an opportunity to use them but better have them all the same. Apart from that she wore a white satin tunic-dress, undergarments and boots. It was spring, and a humidity and temperature where one could go about naked if they wanted to without discomfort. A thin dress and boots were comfortable enough. Hmm, Arya liked being a lady, dresses were a lot more comfortable than what men wore. Especially for days like this in the forest. Arya continued to walk through the forest, and if she didn't know better she would have assumed all was right in the world. The birds sung, the trees looked healthy and green, the sound of a stream nearby ... it all seemed quite peaceful. The path in the forest was the easiest going, and the plants on either side of it were less dense and thick, making it seem a lot less forbidding. With the rising sun casting its light on the forest, the place seemed positively alive around her, without any immediate sense of danger. It was as if the past year had never happened, notably with the warbling of the birds in the morning, and the atmosphere was rather pleasant. Occasionally on either side of the road she would see stumps of trees that had been axed, and even around them new saplings grew. Half an hour later, she could see up ahead about 160' away was a couple of old huts, as well as a larger building that looked like a sawmill, where the path led to and probably ended. The place was overgrown with weeds, and it could be seen the forest was reclaiming what used to be a lumbering area. Meantime, around her there would be a howling sound as of wolves from within the forest, perhaps they had caught sight of prey nearby, and it was not hard to tell it was coming from not far away at all. If she was very sharp, by following where the howl came from, she would be able to discern about 40' or so off the path to the north was a single good-sized wolf stalking her from amidst the trees, but it would be extremely difficult to even hope to connect with a shot at this distance and through the heavy cover of tree trunks, likely more on the way. (Arya Long caster liked dogs and wolves, she thought that their nature was really appealing in a way she couldn't put her finger on. But she heard howls of wolves now, and there was something primal about it. Something needy, something bestial. Arya shuddered and looked left and right. Her eyesight was good enough, not as good as something, she didn't need glasses, but it could be better. She saw a lumber mill close by as well as several huts. She decided to run. The short sword bobbing up and down with each step. Running with a short sword in the scabbard did slow one down, but not as much as other weapons. Still with or without it, she couldn't outrun wolves. She made it to the lumber mill before being set on by the wolves and luckily the door was already open. She moved to close it and noticed that it was jammed open. Damn ! She would have done better running to the huts. The howls were closer now, she didn't have time to change her position. Arya drew her short sword and set herself inside trying to ensure there was enough room to swing her blade. She had not fought wolves before. She had spared with men, and some women, but not animals. Would it be easier ? Harder ? Arya bit her lip and breathed deeply.She had not fought for her life before. It was always training. This might be the end. Arya braced herself as she saw the first wolf appear from the view out the open doorway. As she watched others appeared. They were larger than dogs she had known. By quite a bit. (distance and the speed she had to cover would likely leave her breathless and weary from the run, but who knew, sometimes with adrenaline it might forestall the onset of fatigue. Although the door was jammed open, there was some benefit to being in here, and that was the benefit of the open doorway, and if she kept her head screwed on, this might be a good place to hold out against the wolves, assuming she was competent and fresh enough to keep fighting them as they came. The first wolf loped into the doorway and tried to bite at her feet and hands, but the wave of her blade and its glint in the relatively dim light of lumber mill forced it to back away a moment, before lunging forward again. This time it was careless, the blade slashing into its shoulder deeply as its blood stained the ground, and with a whimper it withdrew back out the way it came, but she could see there were quite a few other wolves out there. RollSummary: At 2020-08-04 02:23:06, Meredith (UID: 61033) rolls: 1d6 Result: 6 (Result: Meredith rolled: 1d6Comment: Arya game. 1 is worst 6 is best Result: 6,Total: 6OOC: Usually for pure randomization I just use a 1d6. High is always good for the player, low is always bad. Another wolf would advance forward, but she could see that not far back was an exceptionally large wolf. Where most of the other wolves were about 3' at their shoulders, this one was 4' or maybe larger, and its eyes seemed to shine with a sinister light. If she could work through another pair of them, and deal with this large one, maybe the rest would retreat. Alternatively, if she was worried about getting worn out by attrition, she might take a respite before the second wolf advanced forward and dart deeper into the lumber mill, see if there was a more favorable position, or perhaps a closeable, lockable door to secure herself from their advances. (looked over her shoulder briefly and noticed another door, the larger wolf as well as two other smaller ones circled her. She dared not try and run, taking her eyes off them for a moment will have them leaping at her back. With practiced skill she tried to disable one of the smaller ones with a quick over head strike. Arya Roll 1d6: Result 1The wolf saw it coming and darted away easily. She probably should have chosen a different attack than doing the same thing again. They were more intelligent than she thought. Immediately afterward the larger wolf leaped at her throat. Large wolf Roll: 1d6 Result 1Although the wolf had a plum opportunity to end the fight quickly Arya's quick reflexes and training prevented her loosing her life. Arya's breathing hastened, and her heart rate sped. Three wolves, all smart, and cunning. This didn't look good. (just a brief moment of distraction, the tide had turned suddenly. Where Arya could relatively easily deal with a single wolf, the brief moment of distraction provided gave room for three of them to enter through the door, along with the alpha of the pack. Now she was faced against three wolves, it would take all of her guard to try and ward off all three of the predators while trying to make quick strikes, hopefully with sufficient precision to drive them off with a telling wound, one good slash should be enough to send the smaller ones retreating and while she was focused it was unlikely another one could make it past the alpha without taking a stab from her. For their part, the three wolves were used to operating as a pack, the two regular ones aiming to harry and distract while the alpha sought to land a telling blow. RollsSummary: At 2020-08-05 02:17:56, Meredith (UID: 61033) rolls: 2d6 Result: 4 (Result: Meredith rolled: 2d6Comment: Arya d6 then Wolves d6Result: 2, 2,Total: 4Summary: At 2020-08-05 02:18:09, Meredith (UID: 61033) rolls: 2d6 Result: 10 (Result: Meredith rolled: 2d6Comment: Arya d6 then Wolves d6Result: 4, 6,Total: 10Another tense round, as her uncommitted strike missed one of the smaller wolves just narrowly, and her defensive stance stands her in good stead and that affords her room to fend off the others. How long could she hold out like this though, against three foes? Then one of the wolves tried to lope around her, providing her an opening, which she took, the blade striking the beast before it could properly get around her, emitting a snarl of pain, as the other smaller one snapped at her ankles, and the alpha capitalized on that, the larger wolf launching itself forward to snap at her. Somewhat off balance, she had little choice but to bring her sword arm around to ward it off, but her movements just a little too slow, the large teeth tearing into the flesh of her sword arm just missing getting a good grip on her arm and bearing her down beneath its bulk. In a normal situation with such a wound, likely her sword arm would be near useless with muscles torn, but, there was a matter of the charm...IOC : You can describe how she takes the pain, mixed with pleasure, due to the charm the old woman gave. In principle, the more serious the wound (that isn't actually manifested), the more intense the shock of pleasure. It is also up to you if she drops her blade or manages to hold on to it. The injured wolf will retreat, so assuming she takes no drawbacks, you can treat the wolves as taking a -1 to their 1d6 going forward. IOC: Lets loose the dice rolls and free form please. They sort of annoy me now. Lady Arya gasped. She took a bite to her arm. Pain flared briefly and she dropped her sword. At the same time the charm around her neck glowed and became warm. Almost too warm to touch. A moment later she felt a strange sensation arouse between her legs. She had become aroused ? Seriously ? After being bitten ? Strangely the wound on her arm had healed though ! There even wasn't a drop of blood anywhere to be seen. Her tunic sleeve was town but not even a pink scar or anything to show a wound was a moment before. She then looked to the wolves. They had stopped fighting for some reason and began to sniff the air. Was it the scent of her arousal. It must be as they were sniffing in that direction. Oh, lords. She had lost her sword. The idea of picking it up seemed . Wrong somehow, and that doing it would doom her. Arya blinked, breathing heavily after the ordeal. What would happen now ? (wolves sniffed the air, sensing the fairly obvious change in the scent she was giving out, even as the injured one retreated licking its chops. As a fellow predator though, if she could be deemed such, she still stood taller than even the largest of them. The other wolf that had been battling her stalked to one side, moving over where her sword was, interposing itself between her and it, looking expectantly at the alpha. The alpha drew back its teeth a little and licked its chops, surprising devoid of blood, despite having snagged her arm. It then closed in on her, entering her space expectantly, trying to make sense of her strange dual colored hues, the shifting swinging white thing below which the scent came so strongly, its nose moving to sniff at her skirt while circling around her. If she looked, she would see the wolf getting excited, its member becoming more distinct and obvious from under its fur. She still had her daggers, though it was questionable how useful one would be facing so many of the pack. The alpha seemed to be trying to get around her, which would cut off any possible escape for her, so she could turn around rather than have it circle around her. The question she might really want to ask herself now was that... would the direction this was going, really be preferable to being eaten by a pack of wolves? Lady Arya looked to the wolves, the biggest one was trying to get behind her, which would leave her back to three wolves if she turned to face it. They didn't seem to be attacking but one of them was guarding her sword. She thought to use her dagger but if she couldn't best them with a sword, she wouldn't with just a dagger. She looked about and noticed that there was a change in them all, they were breathing heavily sure, but they were not snarling. Although she felt nervous she decided to face the three smaller wolves while the larger one she let circle and get behind her. There was a new smell in the air. Musky. That smell wasn't her... More wolves entered to take the spaces vacated by the injured ones, so she was facing three regular wolves, while the larger she let encircle her, effectively trapping her against those occupying the doorway she had entered by. The wolves in front of her let their tongues hang out as if expectantly, she could start to notice their shafts, pink against their grayish fur, becoming visible. The muzzle sniffed her skirt and sniffed under her ass, and she would feel a rough flick out, licking her pussy, tasting her wetness through her panties. The texture was thick and warm, but also cold compared to the heat of her loins. A sudden nip, a pinching sensation at her butt, perhaps it would have grazed or tore her flesh as the fangs ripped off her panties, but there was of course, no blood... only more heat and more excitement filling her senses. If she were of the right mindset, she might appreciate that her pheromones had taken their mind off sang her as food... and something else instead. After noticing the nip on her buttocks had healed again immediately, with a smaller glow and lesser warmth from the charm around her neck, she realized that the charm somehow changed injury and wounds and pain to healing and sexual pleasure. It was very strange, how could such a thing be made, and go unknown ? It had already saved her life ! That fortune-teller was worth every gold piece she was given ! Surely it was an artifact. Stranger still was that her arousal scents seemed to be effecting the wolves, judging by the pink tips of their penises protruding from their sheaths. This wasn't normal by any means - but she had heard of animals raping women before. Perhaps she was like them ? It certainly seemed so. She wouldn't have known until now as living in the city one was usually removed from animals of all kinds. Arya giggled instinctively. Strangely she thought it was funny. Perhaps it was nerves from being so close to death. But with that amulet she may stand a chance to find the sacred City. Still that left her other ability - being catalyst to question. Was it related ? The old crone fortune-teller thought so but didn't elaborate. Lady Arya was a virgin, although 20 every suite tried their luck with the hope to have her families wealth and titles for themselves. That didn't really lend itself to sex or romance. What was happening now was something very different to what she had experienced or expected. Lady Arya had no way of knowing, but the charm was limited to an extent. There was only so much pleasure a psyche could hold after all, and there were ways to bypass or short-circuit the charm's effectiveness, but for now that probably wasn't of topmost pressing priority to her. The wolves naturally didn't care about her reverie and thoughts, or that she wanted to giggle. Another rough hard lap on her pussy by the alpha behind her, tasting her arousal, her excitement. Then with a bound she would feel a great weight land on her from behind, the alpha having got its shoulders and paws atop her shoulders and back, forcing her to crash to the ground amidst the three wolves. Its lower body got to work, grinding against her behind as its thick pink pointed penis started searching for her wetness, she would feel it prodding against her pussy harshly as she was pinned by the beast. She couldn't see how big it was, but probably considerably bigger than those she saw before her. The strange feeling member glided and surged against the outside of her lower lips, once, twice, as from her new position she might be keenly aware of how pink and long and nearby were the whips of the other wolves watching with interest. Then with another press on the correct angle, that large pointed shaft would force itself into her tight, heated body. Fortunately she was well lubricated, but would it be enough amidst the primal urges from such a large and well-endowed creature? As the weight of the wolf to her rear pressed itself against her shoulders, her head and shoulders were pushed to the floor. From that vantage she could see the erections of the smaller wolves in full view. Their pink tips were out and more of their cocks were protruding every second. The smell of musk from their cocks was much stronger now.Meanwhile, the wolf from behind had other plans other than waiting. With a powerful thrust it tore through her panties and entered her womanhood. She was a virgin and her hymen gave way immediately. Luckily it didn't hurt. She had been told it might or might not depending on the woman, now she knew.The cock was considerable. And several things helped. Firstly the cock had its own lubrication, something all canines had, allowing easy entry into females. Seconding she was wet from the effects of the charm. This allowed the cock to enter the Lady's womanhood as much as its thrusting needed. Lady Arya felt amazingly pleasurable sensations when it happened. She felt disgusted with herself for liking it, but it felt so natural. Soon her paintings matched the ones of the wolf taking her virgin pussy. The wolf growled audibly as it fitted itself deep into her, pussy, its length spearing her deeply. The smell from her, the way her body quivered and clamped around it, was tight as it started working its way into her harder now. More growls as its weight was upon her, the shaft pounding deep into her, and the force made her feel some fatigue perhaps, as it stretched and used her freshly deflowered pussy, the movements feeling even and forceful. There would be little warning though, as suddenly the wolf inside her snarled and she would feel it grow, not deep inside her, but the base of its shaft expanding and ballooning inside her body, stretching her suddenly about 2" or so inside her vagina, possibly overwhelming her with another wave of pleasure. The large wolf gripped her hips with its forelegs keeping her rear in place as its hind legs thrust quickly. This went on for some time while Arya's gaze moved from cock to cock of the wolves in front of her - mesmerized by their growing erections. The scent of their erections overpowered her now. Was this what the fortune-teller knew ? Did all fortune-tellers know this when they looked at her ? Because the fortune-teller gave her the charm, it was something Arya assumed that was what the crone wanted to happen. Fate, perhaps. The thrusts of the wolf taking Arya's virginity in a canine rape somehow felt . Right. IT certainly was pleasurable. Arya's pleasure grew as the thrusting continued. She climaxed. The first she ever experienced. And it was wonderful. There was more though, there was a bulge entering her. Looking at the smaller wolves erections she noticed that there were bulges on their cock that seemed to appear 3/4 down the length of their member. Powerful thrusts had the rear wolves knot enter her tight vaginal. The pressure on her g-spot was absolutely heavenly, and it made her climax again almost instantly."Oh, lords!" Lady Arya whimpered. Still the wolf had more in mind ... The bulbous "base" or "midsection" of the wolf's shaft continued to expand, as it rocked more violently against her. Now that the female was properly plugged up, it was time for the main show. A loud long growl as she would feel its hot seed spraying deep within her, as it pounded inside her. This time, its pounding was limited, since the bulge also limited its motion, but it was like slowly forcing a rubber ball up her pussy, stretching her and grinding it in. It also wasn't exactly a ball - generally it would be less likely to slide out and more likely to slide in, from the pressure. How much she could appreciate this was currently unknown, especially if she was in the throes of an orgasm. So too was the wolf, as it growled louder and rammed her with more gusto. Unlike humans, they didn't get fatigued so soon after first spray, instead enjoying and using her pussy more, and before filling her with another burst of its seed. The sensation Arya would find to not just be purely physical, but the pressure of the fluids on her insides would start to be delectable. Though the wolves of this pack were considerably less tainted and more natural than those that she might encounter moving forward, they nonetheless had been exposed to an environment with traces of demonic presence. And the fluids that they emitted were all a form of aphrodisiac. While this was going on, some of the wolves got a little restless and started to close in on her, licking at her clothes and arms, although not quite her top, they hadn't figured how to get her breasts yet. In so doing, she would find some of the whips near her mouth, their shape and also their scent possibly intoxicating to her, after all, she had just come twice, and for the first two times of her life too. The climaxes Arya felt from the wolf in her privates was the best sensation she had experienced in her life. Its knot, she knew the term now somehow was thrust deep inside her locking its cock in place. And it felt heavenly. A Lady shouldn't take pleasure in such things, so she was taught, but her body disagreed. The wolf pounded her remorselessly, and with every tenth to twentieth thrusting Lady Arya climaxed again. As she did, she noticed she was squirting something from her pee hole that wasn't pee on the ground. Very strange. Still the rear wolf didn't seem to want to stop. Its seed flourished her womb, and filled it quickly. Its balls emptying their load, however much there was into the virgin woman. So this is what it was like to lose her virginity. To a wolf. Rape. Rape by a wolf. The fortune-teller knew - Arya could tell. That's why the crone smiled giving her the charm. Arya thought to hate the crone, but was the crone wrong. Was this wrong ? The wolf could have killed her, but they choose to use her instead. And it felt great. She understood why some women became whores now. The idea of receiving pleasure for money sounded like a good deal now she knew how it felt. For some reason she knew this would be the way of things if she lost a fight going forward. And the idea excited her. Arya opened her eyes and noticed one of the smaller wolves cocks was close to her mouth. Its musky scent overpowering her. The desire to please it overcame the Lady, and she took its member in her mouth. It was warm and wet and pulsing on its own accord. Meanwhile, the wolf in her privates found a second wind and thrust quickly in her again, filling her womb even more with come. This time something happened. A warmer sensation appeared just above her clit and it was insanely pleasurable. It also had a growing feeling. She was growing something there - something sexual - something not lady like ... The wolf continued to pound her more, its hot seed shooting deep into her, filling her womb, its heat seeming to flow even more throughout her whole body. As her lips closed around the penis of a smaller wolf, the creature gave a small yip of approval and the shaft in her mouth started to twitch and become larger, she could taste its odd wetness on her tongue, as the owner closed in on her and put its weight against her face. As her arousal grew and grew, eventually the alpha joined to her hips would start to tire, and gradually the bulge would subside as it came free from her body, leaving her pussy to drip globs of its cum from her tight womb. Another wolf - definitely smaller than the first, but just as enthusiastic as she would feel its weight come to rest on her shoulder blades behind, another hot no doubt pink and fervent shaft eagerly grinding and slipping against her behind to find purchase into her body. Another frenetic set of movements before she would be impaled once again, still having the other hot shaft in her mouth.Orbit might be good to have the catalytic effect fully manifest a cock only a while later, as the wolves might be confused if it popped out mid-you-know, but that's up to you. That said a really large engorged clit is fine for now, especially if she has never been pleasured this way before. I think most of the male wolves would mate with her, and then they would leave her be. You can end it in your next post if you like. You can also cue for me to end by having the second wolf end by pulling out of her. (OK fair enough about cock growth - I will just make it her clit is engorged for the time being. Feel free to complete this scene if you want to btw :) Lady Arya took the time between the first large wolf leaving her privates and the next to enter to examine her pussy, to try and feel what was growing. It was her clit. It had engorged considerably and Arya was delighted. She never really knew that much about sex, coming from a sheltered background. The idea of her body responding was pleasing to the noble woman. As she felt herself the new dog at her rear mounted her. Its cock driving home into her wet pussy as quickly as possible. For some reason the idea of pleasing the wolves sexually was a huge turn on for Arya. She continued to suck one wolf's cock, and it thrust in and out of her mouth eagerly as she kept up the sucking pressure. She had a warm sensation after the first wolf had deposited all It's come into her womb. Something about it was changing her. It felt good. It felt for the better. For some reason she knew she had a purpose, perhaps she could save the world after all.... one cock at a time, or perhaps more . Once the shaft had been wedged firmly within her body, the newcomer to Arya's body pi stoned wildly enjoying her rocking behind that gripped it firmly, the wolf growling with delight as the inexperienced noble took its cock with gusto and fervor that might put whores to shame. Once more that pink long shaft engorged, just the base, plugging her up as it flooded her insides with its seed, raining cum into her pussy as it panted, even as the one at her mouth also engorged similarly and poured its juices into her throat as she sucked it in eagerly. Then the shaft left her mouth, and another came to her lips. As did the one at her pussy, eventually subsiding only to be replaced by another. One by one, or arguably two by two, the rest of the males of the pack came and fucked her thoroughly, using and despoiling her body to the uttermost. In between the alpha recovered and pounded her again, though by then whether she was aware enough of its larger girth, that really depended on how fine her consciousness was after all that hammering.Finally, they would all be satisfied, and the alpha gave her pussy one more last round of rough voracious use, stretching that pussy with the engorged clit thoroughly, and filling her away beyond the brim - she had overflowed some time ago, after which she overflowed with every new user - before leaving her body, satisfied. Leaving her on the ground as the wolves ambled off, thoroughly sated by the arrangement.

Grail of Andrysor (Carly & Melendrith) [NC Exotic-Extreme]|rating:2.0

The Incarnation of Lost Morals [Lisius & Caeli]

(the Lower City, there exists another Kingdom and Court - the Lord of Thieves, who rules over his Thieves' Court, the masters and rulers of the city's lower denizens and the underworld. They are neither unsavory nor vigilantes - the thieves who follow the Court tread the line of neutrality steadfastly, and while they might steal for a living, it is only from the rich who would not miss what these thieves misplace. The man known as the Lord of Thieves stands atop this commoner's hierarchy, but he is a much shadowed figure. None know who he is, nor what his name is; nobody even knows what he looks like. None, that is, but for his Thirteen Rogues - thirteen men who serve as his eyes and ears, who keep him atop his throne and serve him with a fierce loyalty borne of true respect and belief in what he stands for. They are thieves, pickpockets, and spies; each rule a different quarter in the Lower City, and meet with the Lord of Thieves secretly to consolidate information and plans. A series of unfortunate events lands a thief from the Guardsman's Quarter in the local jail; however, he is soon taken under the wing of Emery, the leader Rogue of the Fountain District, famous for her flight-footed thieves and skilled pairs. For reasons only known to the Lord of Thieves and perhaps Emery, he is paired with the District's fair songbird - who is, by night, the indisputably skilled female Second of the Fountain District. She still secretly grieves the loss of her partner and love, Raymond, and is none too pleased to find herself saddled without a partner without room for debate or argument. Is there some plan being set in motion that will involve this awkward pair, together only by misfortune and chance opportunity? Additional Details and Information(Throwing daggers... check. If it hadn't been for the soft rustling of cloth in the corner of the room, an observer might have thought the room empty. Darkness filled the corners, so completely that the only light filtering into the room was between the few layers of cloth strung up around the tall window, dim even then because the moon had risen only slightly, and its crescent the thinnest of slivers as it waned into the new moon. Darkness; it wasn't the setting of her life's story by choice, but Fate might have had other plans. Belt - and lock picks... By day, she played the role of an adorable sweetheart, a Singer who was playful, but also shy amongst strangers. She sang from noon until dusk at the North Fountain, busking at that street corner with fellow musicians whose talents with their fingers and rhythm were as good or better than her own talent with her voice; so well known she was, that there were some in the Lower City who came especially to the faded white stone of the North Fountain (now, a faint gray that had no few thin cracks marring the goddess Iris' likeness), simply to hear the songbird who was as strikingly pretty as her song was passionate. She was a colorful bird who never seemed anything but cheerful and happy - or at least, she did not have a bad temper. Perhaps she was slightly outspoken at times, but you needed to be, to make your voice heard in the Lower City. And at her height, it was even harder. Thus, the necessity of having strong opinions and stronger voices. All my clothes seem fine - and these new boots are wonderfully sound. Good of Duran to introduce me to that quirky old cobbler-By night, Hurried Across was a loyal follower of the Lower City's notorious vigilante leader, the Lord of Thieves. Cool and collected, the female thief had risen in the ranks ever since she had first been adopted into the organization by the Rogue of the Fountain District, Emery; cared for from childhood and taught every way to pick a lock by her foster-brother, Hurried had established herself as one of the most dependable Seconds amongst the Thirteen Districts, and the Thieves' Court. But as a thief, she followed no code but that of the Court... and as a thief, darkness had quickly become her day, and dawn the signal of her day's end. Moonlight was her sun; she counted stars and stared up at a darkened sky of inky black, instead of making shapes in the clouds, against a backdrop of vivid pastel blue. A knock at the door interrupted Hurried's last-minute preparations for the night's meeting." Lhurriel?" She secured one of the belts at her waist one last time, tugging at the leather strap before fastening it close to her body. The young thief opened the door to the Fountain District's leader, smiling and giving him a slight nod when he walked in. "You haven't told me where we're going tonight, or what we're doing yet, Emery," she ventured matter-of-factly, shrugging when he paused in the middle of opening the lower panel of her window. He grinned and winked, provoking a good-natured scowl from her." It's not something you need to know until we get there. You have all your things?" Lhurriel nodded - thieves' gear, all of it. The bandanna she grabbed from off her bedpost matched the rest of her charcoal-gray clothing, tightly-woven cotton that would never catch on any wood splinters or building corners without tearing a remarkable hole in the fabric. It was child's play to clamber out the window after him, to swing onto the roof. They had trained together almost since her debut in the Court, and her small body and slim frame belied a not insignificant strength in her arms and legs. Before long, both of them were but shadows flitting from roof to roof, utilizing the overly-close gaps between each building to get to their destination. They split up after a few minutes - even in their home territory, there was little harm in having caution at their side. Her lungs began to burn from the autumn night's chill shortly before she arrived at the North Fountain, twenty minutes of roof-running later. As expected, Emery's longer legs and more completely knowledge of his home District had given him the advantage; he waved her over when he spotted her, making a graceful, but soundless leap over the fence that separated the church's courtyard from the rest of the city, and gave it some small measure of serenity. Panting slightly, Hurried smiled up at him when she took her place by his side. Only then, did she take the opportunity to look over the young man Emery had been speaking with, who was even now staring back at her. Unabashedly, she stared right back, drinking in his features slowly with her curious, bright green eyes. He was taller than her, of a certainty; toned and weathered, but not old. The moon's pearly silver light gave her little to work with, to distinguish his coloring or features. She could tell, at the very least, that he had strong features and guarded, assessing eyes. His hair was wavy, and light-colored, though she wouldn't be able to put a name to the shade of the short locks until she met him again under the sun's light." Lhurriel, my Second," Emery said, indicating the young woman standing beside him. "This is Trig. He'll be your new partner starting from today." She was too respectful and well-trained to flinch in surprise, but her gaze turned from the stranger to the Rogue for a long moment. You must be joking with me, she wanted to say. Furiously. Bitterly. Hurt. I don't need a new partner. As if hearing her thoughts, Emery turned his eyes to her, daring her to ask. She looked away, swallowing the pit of discomfort that had welled up in her throat. After taking a shallow breath, Hurried turned back to Trig, taking a step forward and extending her hand for a handshake." I am Hurried," she said softly. "My apologies, if my knee-jerk reaction was rude - I recently lost my partner on the job." She didn't smile, but her eyes turned up to meet his gaze. Hurried ignored the whispers that yet haunted her dreams, during the bad nights; whispers of betraying Raymond, of getting a new partner and moving on without him. It was Emery's words, spoken at her bedside after the incident, that remained in clarity as she shook Trig's larger, rougher hand. You have to learn to live without him eventually, Rhee. The gentle rays of the sun wafted down from the heaven’s kissing the faintly tanned skin of a dusty haired lad. Curious and inquisitive blonde eye’s watched as lazy clouds wandered above him. He gave a sigh; the shadow of cold bars running across his face as he looked through the small window of the cell in which detained him. He longed to feel be those clouds, free of the melancholy life that he was cursed into living. Furthermore, he averted his eyes from the freedom above him; the sun’s rays milking into an amber glaze; sugar-coating the clouds in vibrant pinks and orange as the night began to creep up on their mortal world.“This one?” He heard a rusty voice, that was probably rank with whiskey and lies as he heard the jingle of iron keys; worn with heavy use. “Aye.” Spoke another voice; calm and masculine; having an air about him that was all too curious. Trig’s eyes lifted again to stair at the large metal door; the small window in the top hardly sufficing as a mediocre porthole.… Click… The sound of the lock’s disable filled his cell; and at that moment his heart jumped in joy; however his cold face barley showed such excitement. He had seen too much in his lifetime to bother himself with emotions. He shuffled to his feat; the sun soaking into the fabrics that adorn him; revealing his features for the dust and spider’s that inhabited the cell with him to see. Paul Trig; more formally known just as ‘Trig’ was a member of the under cities legion of rouges. He wasn’t of much class, or any legend to speak of; but his talents where noted, and he was given the respect deserved. However, something went amiss on his last mission, landing him a seat in the fiercest penitentiary in all the seven kingdoms. During the day he worked as a smith; working with metal and crafting iron into various goods in which he sold. Due to his trade; his normal district was the Guardsman's Quarter, although he was from the part of town kept under wraps from his overseeing brotherhood. They had bribed many of the guards in the area; and the loyal citizens; poverty-stricken, didn’t pass down their chance to repay their debt to the band of thieves. It is spoken through rumor that beggars and peasants are the true eyes and ears of the Lord of Thieves, as for but a few coins; they will supply you with anything they have witnessed during the course of their day. They are synced so rhythmically with the happenings of the city; that they will tell you just about anything you heart desires. Trigg was of average male height; his body reaching roughly five foot, seven inches from hull to mast. Weighing in at a measly 120lbs, however; his average statue did nothing to describe how well toned he was under his skin. His body was built for stealth; and pounding metal into tempered swords all day was great exorcize. Nimble and agile; he loved to run, he loved freedom, and he loved justice. His soul was hardy; even with all the adversity that lies in his past. His torso was wrapped in a worn vest; made from average hide. It was held by three belts; the top two working just the front; aiding as to not let it fall open; and the bottom most wrapping his entire waist to keep the article to his body securely. He had a chiseled masculine face; still keeping some of his boyish round looks. His trousers where wool, average at best, and a deep green in color; which oddly blended in with the limited range of nocturnal colors.----------The door slid open with an agitated groan; its slumber disturbed by this mysterious stranger. He revealed himself; his attire most definitely giving away his status amongst his kind. Trig’s trained mind locked itself from any confrontation from this section of the Jail’s warden. Instead; he merely made direct contact with his gaze; looking deep into their dark hues.“Mr. Trig.” He began to spoke: “Not only am I hear to bail you out from this hole, but to offer you a new job which we can discuss on the way to the destination fate has directly chosen for you.” Emery smoke, his expression as stern as Trig’s at the moment. Paul remained quiet; merely bowing his head in respect. What is going on… am I being transferred? They truly don’t think I am to blame for whatever happened last night… His mind stirred with confusion as he thought about what could possibly be going on; he tried to wrap his fingers around it, but only came up a few inches short with each passing idea. The scent of mustard fell off the rotting old man who oversaw this end of hell; his large form foul and harsh on the eyes moved out of the door, rudely coughing bits of his aqua lungs into the atmosphere as he did so: “Whatever.” He began to speak: “As long as I get me coin; you can take this lad wherever you so please.” He paused, thinking about what he said; his perverted mind ruling his next comment: “If you are that kind of pervert.” He burst into an uproar of hearty laughter, finding his offensive comment to be quite pleasing comedy. Amery nearly set the bag of coins in the men hands; little did he know; it was formerly of a guard that was already working his shift elsewhere in the fortress. Emery shook his head in disgust; and motioned for the boy to follow him. Onward they went into the city; the bustling noises of the town filled the air as they made their way to what for Trig was an unknown destination. Emery turned to him speaking: “You’re to meet your new partner, and forget about the events of last night. She is not to know, and you are not to judge. You are not being punished; there is nothing that is out of the hands of the Lord’s wishes.” Trigg nodded; the only answer he could muster as he received his orders. He locked it away in the back of his mind, only clueless as to what fate had in store for him next. And it wouldn’t be long before he found out. He turned his wheat colored orbs to the sky once more; the clouds now shivering with shades of blue as the sun yawned one last time; slipping into its bed on the horizon. The night began to swell through the air; bringing about sounds of crickets, and the flickering of lanterns. Before long he found himself alone; standing patiently in the collectives that was the night. He felt as a night’s breeze wove its way through each strand of hair adorning his crown. After moments of waiting his summoner returned with said partner. He watched as the moonlight hid her form; making her difficult to read. His eyes scanned feverishly for some sort of analysis; but her cloak was too strong; he could tell she as well was high of rank.“Hurried, My Second,” Emery spoke, addressing the woman to his side who was wearing a veil of the night. “This is Trig. He’ll be your new partner starting today.” He watched as her emotions wavered behind her guise. Watching as their silent quarrel unfolded before him. He knew at this moment that discomfort was not strong enough of verbum to describe how he felt. What was the meaning of all of this? Had the Lord gone mad? No… He struggled with his thoughts; for it was sin to think so badly of the one who loved them; and gave them their divine rights as keepers over the poor. He snapped back into reality as he heard her soft voice speak to him. The vibrations of her voice carried across the starry breeze like that of a canary. “Trig” He spoke; grasping her nimble; feminine hand. He listened as she apologized for her behavior; simply responding: “It’s quite already; I’ve had a bit of a day myself.” His lip curled into a half-hearted smile, as his eyes took on a weary look. “The pleasure is all mine.” He said, reminding himself of her overseeing rank. This is going to be interesting… She gave him a half-smile, though the shadows cast by the moon over her hair hid most of it except for the slightly upturned corner of her mouth. "Are you sure you should be saying that?" She remarked coolly in response to his trite pleasantry. "You might regret those words if I turn out to be a-""Rhee!" Lhurriel visibly stiffened and flinched at Emery's sharp reprimand. He was usually amiable and rather flexible - she had rarely heard him raise his voice, and very rarely with her. That he would do so now, in front of a stranger-The thief took a slow breath, her eyes softening apologetically as she looked back up at Trig, her gaze still bright and honest, if guarded. She hadn't realized that her pain was still so fresh, even though she'd made her peace with his death and buried her pain when he left with the God of Death. Missing Raymond had taken the back burner, as her duties as Emery's only Second piled up while she healed, then tried to catch up on paperwork and planning." My apologies," she murmured, bowing slightly before stepping back. "Emery. I'll be going back first." Later, she would rail and rant at him for doing this without consulting her first. She did not want a new partner, and though it was too late to change that... well, she knew why he'd done it. If he'd brought it up, she would have refused otherwise, practical or not. Before Emery could say anything else, Hurried turned on her heel and ran down one of the small courtyard's paths, around the fountain and disappearing behind the corner of the church's walls. He watched her go, a small frown on his face, then turned back to Trig, faintly amused. "So. I'll bring you back to the Tilted Crescent for tonight, and you can meet some of the other thieves that you'll be working with. Tomorrow, you go talk with Hurried. Now, follow me - I won't stop for you if you get tired, mind." Trig watched as she was chastised for her comment. He pulled his hand back from their half-hearted shale only to pocket it, sighing at the bitterness and arrogance she had given him. He himself wasn’t too thrilled about the circumstance he was in either. Who was she to point the finger, making accusations that hey may be a traitor? He scoffed in his mind, a bit of angst brewing in the pit of his gut the more he thought about it. However, due to his training, he kept a calm, collective appearance, watching the small quarrel before him. This confusion and disconnection between factions of the guild is really concerning… Trigg’s mind steeped, trying to make sense of the past few days. His memory took him back for a brief moment. The last thing he remembered about the previous day was picking up a rather lavish dagger from a display case he had picked open. And before he knew it a city guard had his sword to the back of his neck. He remembered feeling the cold steel of the blade, millimeters from his spine. His face quirked a bit, a rare trait for him to show any sort of emotion, though he quickly subdued them before his eyes turned back upwards. The awkward situation left Trig rather antisocial for the time being, he felt as if anything he said only further the incriminating assumptions of the two before him. He had heard rumor of this canary that he was to be partner’s with. By day, she sang weaving dulcet hymns for any passer-by; but by night a raven, becoming one with the shadows as she gracefully helped to balance their gilded world. Hurried, along with her late partner’s reputations had preceded them, and now here he was, in the presence of two of the highest rank members of an unfamiliar district. What is a lowly metal thief like myself doing here? Standing amongst two legends; to be partners with one. It was all too curious to him, the last few days flying by him as the previous night resonated in his mind. After having an entire day to himself, stewing over the events in a cell he couldn’t help but wonder if he would be placed under suspicion for whatever devious events that may have taken place. His mind grew weary; and so he decided to look towards optimism for answers. He was going to work hard, earning back any loyalty to the Lord of Thieves that may have been falsely displaced. Trigg absent-mindedly continued to nod in response to their questions and comments; finding no words that could fit the peculiar atmosphere the moon was casting about them. His eyes bear witness as the female’s form turned, an obvious discomfort about her as she swept off, proclaiming her farewell for the time being. He watched as she spread her wings, sailing off into the causeways of the Fountain District, the territory she was queen of. He couldn’t help but think how free she looked, as the shadows welcomed her so generously; he was going to have to work hard indeed to earn these ones trust.“So I’ll bring you back to the Tilted Crescent for tonight, and you can meet some of the other thieves that you’ll be working with. Tomorrow, you go talk with Hurried. Now, fallow me – I won’t stop for you if you get tired, mind.” Snapping back to attention as the masculine voice of Emery began to command him, Trig, lost in a relay of never ending though had to find it in him to break the cycle and clear his mind. His amber gaze switched to the one who laid claim as one of the thirteen overloads of the empire. His mind began to grow wayward once more and his eyes shifted downward, he had only dealt with one of the thirteen voices of the lord at his initiation as one of the thieves, becoming part of the vagabond protectors of justice. Turning back upwards he saw that his company was already swiftly making his way towards his proclaimed destination. Never having set foot in this district he scolded himself for being so inattentive. Thankfully for him, he was quick on his heels; kicking off the cobblestone below him as he made his way onto the thieves’ highway consisting of the dark alleys, and the moonlit rooftops. He wasn’t sure what was in store for him in the next chapter of this adventure that was unfolding before him; but as they arrived at their final destination he turned to see the wooden, handcrafted sign that dangle gently from a cast iron support. As one would assume, it read in script letters: “Tilted Crescent” an appropriate picture of so above it. He turned to the door of the Inn, waiting for further instruction. Emery began walking through the door of the Tilted Crescent, then paused and looked back at Trig when the other man didn't follow him in. He chuckled and shook his head, then stepped back out so he could sling an arm around the slightly shorter man's shoulders." Trigg, what are you doing standing outside the door like a fool? If you're going to be Hurried's partner, then you can at least walk into your new home without orders. We're a lot less strict here than in the Guardsman's Quarter - I don't give orders as often, and Hurried helps me a lot more than most Seconds do. I handle issues with the Lord of Thieves, with other Districts, but she and her-well, just Hurried now, she helps train the younger ones, those who are more skilled in our district." Emery grinned and hailed the inn manager as they walked past the coatroom and into the lobby; Jonathan, who came from around his desk to shake his hand, and then Trig's when Emery introduced him as such. They talked for a brief moment - plans of some sort, for a heist a few days away - while laughter and glasses slamming on tables could be heard from the public taproom on the right, where the door was open. The air looked clean, but the people sitting inside... considerably less so, and some of them obviously inebriated. Before long, Emery returned to Trig's side with a short apology and continued their conversation as if they had never stopped. "And as a thief - well, Hurried knows all the tricks of our trade, and knows all the ins and outs of our territory." At that moment, they turned away from the public taproom on the right, and walked into the private room on the left, where the door was closed. Unlike the raucous revelry from the public taproom, this one was much more refined, and furnished more comfortably. Several men were reclined in semi-comfortable looking couches, either sleeping or reading by lanterns hung above them or standing on nearby tables; there were about a dozen seated four to a table, drinking and tossing cards into a center pile, before groaning and then returning all of them to the dealer when they lost. The bartender, who was chatting amiably with a few thieves seated on stools next to the bar, was the first to spot Emery and the new arrival - he quickly poured the drink into a glass with a flourish, then hailed the amiable Rogue, making everyone else in the room sit back as they looked towards the door." Hey, it's a new one!"" Amery! Where's our little sweetheart?"" Augh... I had to wake up and see your ugly mug?! Where's Rhee?" That particular thief earned a good-natured scowl and a kick at his chair when Emery came close." Who's he?" A man sitting in the corner nodded at Trig, who was standing just behind Emery. The Rogue grinned and beckoned for Trig to come forward." This man is Trig. He'll be working with us from today on - I have him training with Hurried-""-Lucky bastard-""And none of you will complain about that." Emery gave the thief who'd said that a sharp look. "She did not choose any of you for a reason, and if I gave her a choice in the matter, she'd like as not slam the door in my face. To keep out favoritism-" And this time, Emery looked at a man sitting at the next card table over, before continuing, "I have chosen someone new to the District. So I will hear no complaints from any of you." It wasn't overtly obvious, but something they heard in his voice made most of them back off, at least grudgingly. It was obvious, though, that Hurried was at least as well known in her own District as she was outside it. "It's as he says, gentlemen," the man in the corner said coolly, before putting his new sheet down and standing. His body unfolded - he towered over even the tall Emery, and was as thin as a rail. Despite his height, his movements carried a careless grace that didn't seem trained, but natural. "No more grumbling - let's greet the newcomer," he said, a half-smile curling the corners of his lips. "I'm Alasdair." As if on cue, everybody in the room (except those still sleeping) jumped up, abandoning their books, news-sheets, and card games to greet Trig with apparent enthusiasm. Trig’s eyes watched the orange and yellow hues of light cracked forth from the entrance of the building, the form of Emery’s silhouette making its way through the doors, only to turn back and see him standing there. As Emery stepped down the stone steps leading into the building Trig couldn’t help but notice his attitude was now so casual, and he felt his new boss’s arm hanging his shoulders. He was a bit shocked, their awkward introduction having left him with a serious impression of the man, now seeing him with a hearty grin and a lax nature.“Aye, you’re right, sir, I’m just a bit off my rocker today; Jail does things to a man.” He chortled, his face lighting up as he relaxed, a smile played his maw as he joins his new boss in venturing into his new home. Furthermore, he listened to Emery as he explained how things worked here, taking mental notes and nodding when he felt appropriate. Instantly the sounds of a tavern washed into his ears as he was caught up in the bustle. The place was very alive for the hour at night, but when the pubs full of dunk commoners what else could one expect. Upon being jousted into an introduction to the apparent owner of this fine institution, Trig quickly assessed the man and gripped his hand with a firm handshake:“Nice to meet you, sir. And a fine establishment you have here, I must say.” When Emery took the man’s attention once they’d become acquainted he couldn’t help but advert his gaze to the main taproom. This place had much appeal, and Trig scouted quietly into the main hall of the building his arms folding neatly over his chest. The smell of sour ale and fresh tobacco joined his senses; possibly masking any foul odors from the unkempt patrons that weren’t too many paces from them. Just as he turned his head to peer over at Emery and this man Jonathan, he got caught by the other man’s frame once more as he continued their conversation not missing a beat, finding himself being guided back into a private room. As they entered the calmer atmosphere his eyes instantly observed the situation, sizing up his new team and picking out different things in the room. There was a light blue cloud linger in the air as rolled cigarettes lay in ashtrays smoldering to their death in neglect as their host was consumed by the cards.“Ah, this is much nicer than back at Guilds man’s.” He commented, the apparent income of this sector paying off much nicer than his previous home.“All we had over yonder was a small supply room in the back of a store.” He chuckled, his arms unraveling. Trigg wasn’t one to be found clamoring around in a tavern or brothel, finding this atmosphere to be much more his style, in turn his hard shell began to retract while growing more comfortable with the atmosphere. His attentions turned as the bartender spoke out, the rag-tag bunch of thieves averting their notice two the two of them. It was them Emery called out Trig’s freshman status and his new position amongst them; smiling a bit as they expressed their affections to their female counterpart. He couldn’t believe how lax they were, especially with an astute rouge in their presence. As he was addressed, Trig stepped forward not shying himself to the man as they were to be is allies and family now. “Evenin’” he said, having an apparent dialect that was slightly more drawn than theirs. “As Emery’s already gone about saying; M’name’s Trig.” He bowed slightly. Amery continued to explain the situation in further detail, expressing how he will be taken under the wing of the lovely little songbird. He listened to their stir; only to be reprimanded by their Rouge and left Trig astounded that even in their casual presence, he still showed his command, and his men loyal. A quaint smile played his muzzle as his true nature began to show itself. He knew when the time for business and the time for relaxed affairs needed to be, he guessed this was a good trait of himself. The man in the corner rose, silencing the quarry of thieves, only to regain stability and control, introducing himself kindly to Trig.“The pleasure is mine, sir.” He said, his hand wrapping tightly around the other males in a shake.“As it is to the rest of you, I can only hope I meet your expectations.” He bowed his head, only to see them all burst forth from their stations and crowd him. Furthermore, he exchanged greetings to the mean, dispensing handshakes and receiving names. After he’d spent a few moments getting general information about his new comrades he stopped, raising his hand into the air.“Gentlemen.” He said, his voice carrying a tone to be heard thought the room.“I had a long night in the federal penitentiary, and now find myself back with my kind.” He continued;“So I think I need something hard to drink while we get to know one another.” He grinned, his arm falling to his side as the other stuffed into his pocket, finding himself rather happy with how things where turning out, resting any fears or suspicions he was harboring earlier nearly to bay. As most of the thieves dragged Trig along to the bar (when there were no more stools, some of them dragged and turned chairs around so they could talk facing the other group), where they all sat and asked him questions. Emery watched, amusement in his eyes as he watched Trig's attempt at a genial, collected attitude get stripped away as the other young men boisterously laughed, joked, and asked questions. Some of them were very young, but most were either around Trig's age or a few years older. Several of the unique of the group shined as they handled teasing, mockery, and attention easily; however, even the quieter few were easily brought into the group, with a subtlety of a well-oiled machine. It was obvious that the group had known each other for a significant amount of time, and worked with each other often. The only person missing was Hurried. Alasdair slipped away from the group with a toast and a laugh to join Emery on one of the comfortable fireside seats, both of them sipping from glasses of water while they waited for her to return." She didn't react very well to her new partner, I'm taking it," Alasdair murmured, angling his chin slightly in the direction of the gathering to indicated who he was talking about. Amery's mouth twitched, and he drank some water to hide a frown. "You of all people should know how close she was to Raymond." Alasdair didn't respond, though he did raise a brow at the comment to acknowledge that. The group had been sitting and drinking long enough for most of the thieves to get drunk, but still believe they were sober, when Hurried slipped through the door. Most of the group drinking didn't notice her; seeing Emery and Alasdair sitting next to the hearth, she walked towards them, obviously much more composed than when she had disgraced herself earlier. Alasdair stood and smiled, welcoming the petite girl and drawing her into a warm embrace. She smiled wanly, but flinched when his hand brushed over her arm." I ran into three thugs today, while I was doing a patrol at the South Fountain," she murmured softly, glaring at Emery so he wouldn't show any alarm when Alasdair's palm coming away bloody. "I've never seen them before, but they were obviously waiting for someone. When one of them grabbed my bandanna, and it slipped, they saw I was a woman and fled. Didn't see their faces, but I thought I would tell you, so you can warn everyone before they go patrolling tomorrow night." Amery frowned. Hurried scowled. "I can talk to Trig tomorrow," she murmured. "I need to go clean and bandage these injuries." Without another word, she slipped back up the hidden stairwell just behind the bar, where her, Emery, and Alasdair's rooms were housed. A few minutes after she'd left, Emery and Alasdair slid into seats next to Trig, who was still conversing with the other thieves. "If you wish to talk to Hurried tonight, her room is the last door in the hallway up the stairs," Alasdair murmured, before slipping into the conversation as if he'd been there the whole time. Trig happily complied to their near dragging of his smaller frame, chuckling as he enjoyed their welcoming atmosphere, having feared that they might greet them as his new partner did. He watched as the men gathered about him, eager to learn about him, and happy to make their acquaintances. He conversed, telling them the few stories that he had, and of thrilling heists he had made and prizes he claimed in his work, listening as a few of them piped up to share as well and answering questions promptly. He smiled as the barkeep slid him a tankard full of ale, explaining how tonight it was on the house in welcome to his induction into their group. It didn’t take him long to quench a bit of his thirst, making ease of two mugs of the thick amber juice as his cheeks grew rosy, and he conversed openly with the men. He was overjoyed at how their system worked, seemingly superior and much more comfortable than his former home at Guilds man, a grin sprawling his face as he knew he would work as hard as possible to keep their opinions warm of him. Trigg glanced over to the chatting rouge and his fellow thief, lifting his mug to the two of them to show he was grateful for Emery’s work at both bailing him from jail and making him welcome. However, it seemed just on cue that his eyes turned to see the door to the small lodge open, in walking the beautiful figure of the guilds canary. This was the first time Trig had gotten a good look of her, he smiled, giving her a sheepish wave as he set down the tankard, noticing her avoidance of him, and the rest of the general party he gave a small sigh, turning his attention back to the men to not want to cause any conflict. Trigg turned as the lengthy form of Alasdair instructed him towards the direction of her quarters, and he figured that after everyone had their fill for the night he would slip up to have a word with her. And so he continued, getting to know Alasdair a bit more as he joined the group seamlessly, grinning and finishing a third mug of ale before he shook his head to a forth, not wanting to be completely overcome with inebriation.----------The time slipped by as they grew more acquainted and intoxicated, Trig not drinking any further than he had, wanting somewhat of a clear head if he was to talk to Hurried. One by one the men parted ways for the night, and when the last few left, Trig stood. “It was great to meet all you fine thieves, I look forward to missions we may do together.” He bowed, stumbling slightly before laughter erupted from him.“Aye lad, go and get some sleep.” One of the men spoke up, patting him on the shoulder as he left. Trig’s eyes fell to the stairway, and after thinking about it for a moment, he pressed forth, nodding to the remaining few before he disappeared up into the hall it led to.” Last door…” he thought out loud, remember his previous instructions as he came to said door, reaching up he knocked on it lightly, hoping she had not gone to bed already. He fumbled with one of the belts on his vest, a bit anxious for her to open, hoping her mood had lightened, though he was very doubtful. She lay on her bed after going upstairs, staring up at the ceiling with no wish to sleep, and no wish to return downstairs to celebrate the Fountain District's latest. Inevitably, her thoughts wandered to Raymond, and the accident that had cost him his life, and left her weakened and injured for several weeks. It was bad luck, or so Hurried had thought at the time - a pair of guards had somehow discovered them digging into some records in the library of some noble's home, looking for clues as to who it was that was obstructing the passing of a bill that would ease some of the immense poverty plaguing the worst districts of the Lower City. They had run, of course - together, Hurried and Raymond had been a most formidable team, their agility and teamwork usually leaving most pursuers far behind them. That night... she didn't remember much of it. Only that they had kept running, and ran into ambushes at every safe point they usually went to. It was Hurried who first realized they were routing them, trying to back them into an ambush impossible to escape - surrounded on all sides by guards. They'd gambled, and near succeeded. She'd boosted him up to the roof of the building in that narrow alley, and then she'd leapt up after him. They'd run, and had reached the roof of their safe house... She couldn't remember what had happened. Only that they had fought, desperately losing as more and more guards joined their fellows. They'd both done their fair best, but outnumbered, it had been rather hopeless. Hurried, a smaller and weaker target, found herself on the receiving end of multiple opponents. She was told, after that night, that she'd been scored all over her body by steel, and an unlucky stumble had left her with a twisted ankle and broken arm, when only a embrace had saved the bone from being completely shattered by a heavy, blunt-edged weapon. To protect her from a blow that would have killed her, Raymond had whirled into that circle of danger. Two fatal wounds - one to the chest, one to the thigh, where cutting a major artery meant he had bled to death by her side. Other thieves had come to help, but just too late - they had arrived to see pools of blood shining darkly in the moonlight. When the knock came to her door, it jolted Hurried out of her light doze, from the restless nightmares of that night. Wincing at the still-untreated injury at her arm, Hurried got to her feet, brushing some of her hair back with tired fingers. Opening her door, she wasn't sure what made her more surprised - that it wasn't Emery at the door wishing to speak with her, or that it was Trig, obviously not drunk off his feet like the rest surely were." Rather late for a visit, isn't it?" She murmured softly - neutrally, with no sign of the hostility that she'd had earlier in the night at their first meeting. Trig dragged his fingers through his ruddy hair right after he finished the knock unsure of what he was even going to say. I’ll just play it by ear… he thought, feeling the light buzzing of the alcohol in his cheeks, thankful he had his wits about him to quit when he did. He tugged at his vest, fiddling with a random strap on it, a small bit of nervousness wandering through the back of his mind. He waited only a few moments, thankfully, before the door gave a reluctant moan, squeaking as it was pulled open to reveal the moonlight figure of his new partner, whose light sarcastic response was still more welcoming than their first encounter.“He, yeah, a bit late I suppose.” He scratched the back of his head as he dug for a good way to break the ice.“I didn’t wake you did I?” He asked, not much of an icebreaker, but it was a start. Trigg glanced around, and suddenly everything became slightly overwhelming. This unfamiliar sect of their organization, the welcoming of these men who moments before were all strangers, the vastness of their cause. Everything started in all at once; he was now in a new home, with a new partner who far out-ranked him. Something was going on, and it was starting to seem strange.

The Incarnation of Lost Morals [Lisius & Caeli]|rating:3.0

Collision of Elements

Name: DaleaGender: Female Age: 19Power: Earth Origin: Legal Forests Name: Engender: Mileage: 23Power: Fire Origin: Mount Gate Name: Eclair Gender: Female Age: 20Power: Water Origin: Regent desalinate: Intergender: Mileage: 26Power: Air Origin: Ausgestossene valley----------------------------"Um Mr. Zander," the young blonde looked up to her traveling companion, he looked down at her only to give a wide smile. The girl smiled back before continuing. "Why do you always wear that cloak?" She reached out and tugged at the cloak her companion wore. The man gave a small laugh as he reached out and pulled the girls hood up and over her head. "And why do I have to wear one too!?" She asked after removing from being bullied." Becase Clair, your too cute for anyone to handle!" Zander replied as they began to weave through a crowd of people. "As for me, I just feel better this way!" he stated a small chuckle rolling in his thought. Dale seemed to float along the path towards this town that she heard about from forest travelers. She'd never been out of the forest before and was loving it so far. The wind swept around her in a gentle hug and the flowers seemed to face her where ever she stepped. This was her with no cap on her powers. A spidery vine was wrapped through her hair with a flower blooming on top of her head. She could feel the soft hum of the earth through her unshod feet. Jenti walked with a sort of heaviness, a large black cloak about him. Only his bright red eyes could be seen under the hood as he walked along the streets of the bustling little town. Éclair heaved a sigh at her companions response, she didn't really like wearing the cloak. For one, it was filthy and smelled horrible, and for too it was way oversized, she had to keep it bunched up in her hand so she didn't trip over it, and the hood had to be pushed back from her face constantly. It was a rather irritating thing."Ah, here we are, why don't we stop in here for some lunch?" Zander asked as he pulled Éclair to a pub. The girl cleared up at him through a few holes in the hood." What you don't like this place!?" He asked as he bent low to peer under the girls hood and push it out of her face with his index finger."It's not that! I'm sure this is a respectable place," Éclair responded as she looked up at him." Well WATS the matter?" Zander asked straightening himself with a sigh."It's a pub, that's all we ever go too, and you always get drunk!"Éclair huffed as she turned to lead him away." Hey, that's not fair!" Zander stated as he reached out to retrieve the girl, but she was a little too quick. "Clair come back!" He shouted as he weaved through the crowd of people rather gracefully." I promise only one drink!" he stated still trying to get his friend back."NO drinks at all, you always say one, and it turns into 20, We're going to a bakery!" Éclair stated as she stopped down the streets constantly pushing her hood back as she went. It was a asthmatic process every three steps she would stop pull the cloak close, and push her hood up before continuing. Zander would also get ever so close and just miss his chance to grab the girl before she stepped out of his reach."You're being difficult! As your elder and guardian I demand you stop this instant!" Zander shouted over the hum of the crowd. This only made Éclair turn and walk backwards, somehow managing to avoid running into people as she walked."That's not stopping clear!" "You're being rude, and I'm going to the bakery!" The girl stated as she turned on her heel to face the right direction. The problem with this was that she hadent expected someone to be right in her path, leaving no room for stopping or avoiding. A streak erupted from the girl as she waited to collide with the person wearing an all black cloak.((IM SO OOO, SORRY! I think small meetings like this shouldn't be too bad. Then if they happen to be at the same place for sleep a little later they can all decide to get to know one another or be mortal enemy for the war to come! Either way I would say this is working! Sorry again for my lack of communication! ) ((That works out just fine. ^^))Jenti was walking through the streets, trying to figure out which way he should go. It was really whatever captured his interest. Whenever he saw whatever caught his interest, he usually either followed it or jumped in head-first. When he ran smack into a small girl. He only had to brace himself by putting a foot back to catch himself. Then he looked down and blinked. He smiled slightly and reached out a hand." I'm sorry. I wasn't paying attention." His smile was meant to be kind, but from his menacing appearance, it could've been seen as creepy. Dalea had to let the plant leave her hair, though it was done up in a messy French braid. Her hair had decided the be an unruly curl today. She tugged her light brown cloak on, but left the hood down around her shoulders, so the sun could shine on her face. She saw a small girl being pursued by a large man and followed quietly. Furthermore, she was worried about the girl and would step in if she needed to. But, really she was just used to creeping around and following people. Not until the girl ran into a man did she come out from where she was hiding. She walked up to them and looked at them curiously." Are you alright, miss?" She asked softly, but made sure they could hear her. She stood so she could defend herself and the girl if either of the men tried something. Éclair looked up at he mans and blinked a few times as he spoke to her. His smile was a strange one compared to her appearance."OH, No I-I'm the on who should be sorry, I was not paying any attention whatsoever!"Éclair said taking a small step back from the young man, her eyes were wide as she rambled an apology along with why she wasn't paying attention. When the young women showed up Éclair count help but speak faster to answer her."yes, yes I'm fine thank you for helping, I'm such a dope sometimes, talented in walking backwards but clumsy in crowds!" She rambled until Radar heaved a sigh and placed his hand on her head." Now now love it doesn't seem like this young man holds any grudges,"Zander stated as he calmed his companion down." And it was very kind of you to see if my friend was alright, I am Zander and this would be Éclair" Radar introduced himself to the two with a small bow and extension of his hand to indicate who Éclair was." Hello it is very nice to meet the both of you!"Éclair stated as she curtsied(map)." Well I suppose we owe the both of you something, I suggest a drink!" Zander said happily and turned to go back the way they had come." I suggest you stop being a stupid drunk!"Éclair stated as she reached out and grabbed Sanders cloak thus stopping him from going anywhere." Clair bear your no fun!"the man whined turning and clasping both hands together." I just don't like traveling with a fool!" She stated and turned herself away from wander. "Why don't we treat you to dinner?" Clair asked the young man she had run into."It's the least I can do for being so silk and running into you!" She added a smile playing on her face."Your invited to miss, it would be rude of me to not offer you anything after you came to my aid!" Éclair stated send the girl the same smile." A splendid idea," wander stated as he grabbed Éclair by the waist and pulled her close." I hope you have the money love!" Zander hissed under his breath to the girl. This only made her elbow him in the side. Zander doubled over with a cough." Please lets go in their for some lunch!"Éclair stated as she pointed to a quanta looking resurgent. Zander only nodded his head as he held his stomach. Jenti couldn't help but smile awkwardly. These two were sort of strange. But, he straightened himself and nodded slightly." I'd be glad to accept your invitation." He bowed his head slightly to show respect, then eyed the new girl with both curiosity and wariness. Dalea smiled, released that the girl had been alright." Well, you two sure are adorable." She chuckled softly, her voice lightly and almost musical. She did a slightly sweeping bow, her hair falling enough to frame her face." I'd surely accept your offer." "Wonderful!" Éclair exclaimed as she clasped both her hands together." Wonderfull" Zander remarked sounding rather aisle at having to feed more than himself and his friend. Reguardless the man straightened up and offered his arm to the new girl." May I lead you they're my lady?" He asked a dashing smile playing on his face as he remained half bowed with his hand extended to the young lady." Carfull, he can be a real charmer," Éclair stated as she looked over her shoulder to her friend." Beleive me I would know!" She added a small laugh escaping her. Dale blinked slightly at the man, then smiled and nodded. She took his offered arm and tugged on her cloak a little. "That's alright. I'm used to pretty boys." She laughed and looked at the new man.((sorry for small post. On 10-min break)) Zander gave a smile at the girl taking his arm though that faded quickly at her comment."' Pritty boy'?"he said sounding rather baffled by the mere idea of the words."I'm not a pretty boy!"he stated with a huff."I'm a man, a gentleman if you will! I've no need for that dismal and flamboyant title!" He added his chest puffing up as he bolstered his own ego." Yes that is why you get drunk on ale, and flirt with all the women, you sound like a Pretty Play boy!"Éclair stated as she began to lead the small grape to the restaurant. Zander gave the girl a nasty look that only lasted a few seconds and showed how childish he could be compared to his maturity."He's a nice guy, if you can get past his annoying tendencies!"Éclair stated with a smile. She was glad to have met Zander, and she knew he shared the same feelings. Dale couldn't help but laugh at Zander. He was actually sort of cute in the way he acted, but she wouldn't let him know that just yet. She liked to keep them guessing. She nodded at Éclair and looked at Zander. "Well, sir. Are we going to go or do I need to nurse your wound?" She had a smile on that was so fake you could peel it off. Jenti just watched them, he couldn't help but smirk. These people were amusing. He may stick around them a little bit. He bowed slightly as girl, Éclair, walked by him. Furthermore, he followed silently behind her, not really waiting for the others. Zander gave a small chuckle at the girls comment, he could see the smile she displayed wasn't on of her true self, but this didn't bother him. He was used to face smiles and forced expressions, it had come with his abilities. In any case he would only charm this young women and allow her to decide on if she wanted to continue adventuring with them." Lady if you would heal me with a kiss I would be grateful!" Zander said his smile just has charming and filled with dramatic pain as he held a spot on his chest. "My spirits have been trampled on by my silly little friend!" He added further dramatizing his pain of spirit." A kiss from such a lovely maiden may cure my spirit and lift my sole!"he flirted as he leads the girl on his arm along." Usually a gentile man asks for a ladies name before asking her to kiss him!"Éclair spouted as she reached the door to the resurgent. She opened it for any who were coming in or out as she waited for her friend and the girl to approach and enter. Zander didn't so much as glance over to Éclairs direction before he spoke up again!" Fogive my rudeness, I had been so distracted by your beauty that I have forgotten my manners!" The man stated as he stopped away while holding the girls hand."forgive me lady, but may I ask of your wondrous name, before I am bestowed with your kiss?" He asked bowing low and to one knee, as he still held her hand." What a playboy!"Éclair commented as she crossed her arms and shook her head. "I honestly do not know what I am going to do with him!" She added with a small giggle as she watched the cloaked man she had bumped into fallow her. Jenti wasn't at all amused by the flirtatious antics of that man. He just went inside the opened door and bowed his head slightly in thanks to the small girl. He took a seat on a chair to a table in the far corner of the little return. Furthermore, he just watched what was about to unfold. Dalea just grinned a mischievous grin. She followed with him, not saying a word until he asked for her name inside the restaurant. "I'll make you a deal. I give you my name and I never have to kiss you. If you'd rather have a kiss, then you shall never learn my name." It was a backwards, tricky deal. She was sure he wouldn't take it though. He valued a kiss over a name. She saw him as that type of person. She just waited calmly for his answer. "Ohh no Zander what ever will you do!?" Éclair used as she passed by the two a smile speed across her face. "Get a kiss and never know a name, or don't ever get a kiss and know a name!" She said a small giggle coming out of her as she passed and seated herself at the table the other man had choose." What a tough diction!" Zander huffed as he stood up. With a small sigh wander shook his head and shrugged!" I shall have to go without ever knowing the feeling of your lips my lady!" he stated a devilish grin playing on his face. He knew how to play these games as well, and if knowing a name men the didn't get a kiss well there was other ways and people he could receive that from. "So do we have a deal then lady?" He asked his head tilted to the side slightly as he waited for an answer." Oh wow, I'm surprised!" Éclair muttered as she seated herself across from the man. "By the way, you haven't given your name, if I recall correctly. "Éclair added looking across at the young man."I'm Éclair, you can call me Clair or what ever variation you can think up!"she said holding her hand out showing she meant no harm. Jenti's eyes looked sort of surprised at the carefree girl's offer. She was more slick than he'd thought. Then he smiled softly and looked at the small girl at the table with him. "My name, young lady, is Jenti." Dalea smiled and bowed slightly. "I'm Dale of the Legal Forests." She was sure he'd figure out that she'd lived there in a woodland loving place and would no doubt think she was a forest witch like everyone else thought they were. Éclair glanced over to her friend and smiled as she knew he would now just be as normal as he was when the two first met, though that wasn't much of an improvement meet from his current behavior." Jenti, Hume that's an interesting name!" she said a smile playing on her face as she folded her hands together and lad her in gingerly on her nickels." I like it!" She added giggling a little as she did." Dalea, hammy a wonderful name, please sit!" Zander said as he pulled a char out from the table. Once the girl was seated he took his spot next to Éclair." Now that we are all introduced with one another, what shall we enjoy for a meal?" Zander asked as he leaned agent the table on his elbow." I've heard talk that this place serves the best pasta and soup in the town." The man added as he pulled his hood off and shook his head." I would hope rummer to be true"he added a small laugh as he nudged Éclair. The girl smiled kindly as she also removed her hood and pulled her bright blonde hair from under the garment." Miss. Dalea, I overheard your from the woodland areas, I've near been to a place like that, what is it like having trees and plan life all around you?" Éclair asked her attention directed at the girl but also inviting to Jenti. Jenti smiled again, this Éclair was sure perky. He wasn't too sure if he is like it, but he didn't dislike it either. He leaned back in the chair while keeping a rigid back. Furthermore, he nodded slightly to Dale and listened as she spoke. "Well, first things first. I am a vegetarian. No meat." She sighed and looked around at the people. "The forest is home. I don't how to explain it to you, other than it has a warm spot in my heart. It's really only a place for people adapted to the culture. Its much different than this place. The people are so much more friendly. I was pleasantly surprised when Jenti here didn't get nasty with Éclair. I thought I'd had to do something." Éclair listened in somewhat childlike awe as Dale explained what the forest was like. She couldn't help but laugh a little when she finished." I would have been fine,"she said giggling a little more." If living in the desert has taught me anything, It's how to find water, and how to defend myself against any attacker!" She said smiling kindly." Hello, welcome to fall sky inn and restrict, what can I get for all of you?" A young woman asked as she stood beside the table the grape had seated them sells at." We have a wide range and culture of foods so anything you can think of we should be able to make!" The women added as she held her small pad of paper ready with her pence."Ahh, this was a good pick Clair" Zander said as he reached out and patted his companion on the head. The girl smiled pleased to be praised."please friends, get whatever you like, it's our treat!" Zander said happily as he couldn't help but boldly play with Éclairs long hair." Yes please don't hesitate in what you wish to eat."Éclair commented as she brushed Sanders hand away rather casually. This didn't stop him as he only went back to twisting his finger boldly through the girls' hair. Dale shrugged slightly." I didn't know that you knew how to defend yourself. I just saw a small woman trying to get away from a larger man that was chasing her. Then you ran into Jenti here, and I thought I should get involved before something happened." She looked at the others as they explained they could get what they wished." Excuse me, miss. I'd just like a light salad. I'm not picky, I'm sure anything you make would be wonderful." She smiled kindly at the woman. Jenti sighed and looked at the lady." I wonder if I could get a steak. Medium rare. I'd also like a small portion of carrots and the strongest ale you have." Éclair gave a small smile at Dale's comment, she was glad someone came to her rescue whether or not it was needed." Thank you again Dale, had it of been a problem I would have been even more grateful for your help!"Éclair said smiling as she waited for her turn to order. Zander stopped playing with Éclairs hair after hearing Jenti's order, if it wasn't expensive it was defiantly right up his ally." My friend, I think the two of us will get along splendidly!" Zander stated as he reaches across the table and offered his hand to the younger man." Miss. I'll have what he is having!"" All right, so far that's two sea dinners and two Ales, along with a salad. What can I get for you miss?"the women asked kindly t éclair."Oh, just a water please, and two appeals."Éclair replied with a small smile." Clair, are you sure? Its-"Zander was cut off by éclair nodding her head happily." Yes I'm not very hungry." She quickly replied sending a soft smile to her friend and the women." Alright, ill get right on it!" The women stated with a wide smile before she wandered off to deliver the order." Since were sort of on the same topic, Jenti where are you from?"Éclair asked tilting her head to the side slightly as she asked. Jenti chuckled softly and looked over at Zander and took his hand in a firm shake. His hand was warm to the touch, almost too warm for a normal human. Like he was ill, having a fever. He then settled back into his chair. His hood slipped back a little, showing a bit of his bright red hair. Dale nodded slightly to Éclair and smiled. She was having a good time so far. Noticing the slip of Jenti's hood, she frowned slightly. She knew where he was from, and she was never going to touch him! She looked away from him, paying attention to something else. Jenti shrugged slightly. "I'm from the mountains. Fire and stone. Burnt lands and rough citizens." Éclair seemed fascinated, even though he described where he lived as being "burnt, fire, and stone" and the people as"rough" this didn't detract her imagination one bit." It sounds so fascinating!" Éclair stated as she count help but lean forward towards both of the new people. She clearly wanted to here more from whom ever would tell her." Don't mind her when she gets like this!" Zander stated as he patted Éclair on the top of her head." She did the exact same thing to me when we first met." he added with a small chuckle." I think it comes from living in a boring place!" he said causing Éclair to defend herself." My homeland wasn't boring, it was exciting, and dangerous, and everyone was very nice to one another!" She stated." I'm just interested in people and places that's all!" She added as she sat back in her chair, as she did however she couldn't help up catch a glimpse of Jenti's red hair, this made her excitement grow as she had never seen hair as bright and red as his. "Mr. Jenti, is your head cover in that amazing color?" Éclair asked as she leaned forward in her seat. Zander looked in the young men direction and couldn't help but give a small laugh as he realized that his companion was excited over hair. Dale watched Éclair be so fascinated with Jenti and just smiled contently. There was a stiff nature to her posture, but that was because she was nervous around him. Jenti just chuckled softly at Éclair's enthusiasm." My homeland isn't that interesting." Once she commented on his hair, he smoothly brought his hand up and pull his hood back over the exposed hair." Yes." That's all her said to it and seemed to withdraw. Dale was sort of curious as to why Jenti didn't like people commenting on his hair. Maybe he didn't like it. Or it may be because he was made fun of as a child for his hair. She knew where he came from, most people had black or ashy colored hair. "On the contrary I think anyplace is interesting!"Éclair chimed as she could see that Jenti didn't wish to talk about his hair."where I came from the people just kept me locked away as if I were a doll!" She explained with a small shrug of her shoulders. Sitting back Éclair continued,"They treated me like I was a fragile nice of poetry that needed tending to every second of every day!" she stated sounding rather put off." I wasn't ever allowed to go outside and when I was, i never really got to see anything. That's why I'm excited to meet new people and learn everything I can about them!" Éclair picked up, she sat up right in her chair, and smiled happily to everyone at the table!" Here you all go, sorry for the wait!" The waitress from before said as she placed all the plates and drinks in front of who they belonged." If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask!"the woman said before leaving." Friends please, enjoy your meal!" Zander stated before dining in himself! Jenti felt for the girl. He didn't know what he'd do if he was trapped inside all the time. Though technically, he was underground 90% of his life, he did it by choice. That's where all the lava was, in the volcano. He smiled a little to himself as he noticed that Dale hadn't said a word since he said where he was from. He was about to ask her what was wrong, but the food came. Furthermore, he decided to wait till later, he didn't want to spoil her food. Dale smiled at her salad, it looked almost like ones she'd made herself from wild plants that she called forth. She took her fork and ate slowly, savoring it. Jenti looked at his food and watched it for a moment. He then picked up his fork and ate. Éclair smiled at he rappels, before she took up the knife she was given and began to slice the apple up into neat pieces. She then carved out the core and nibbled on each nice. Zander glanced over to his companion only to see she had taken the smart rout. The apples were sure to be rather cheap and would lead them with enough money to pay for the meals as well have something left over, or rather that would have been the case if he had done the same." So, what brings the two of you to this town?" Zander asked as he took small bites of his dinner, the man was determined to make it last!"Éclair and I were just passing through."he added setting his fork down to refrain from eating a lot while he sat. Éclair watched wander, as if wondering what he was going to say next.((sorry short and lame post, I'm running out of conversational pics, plus I'm dead third, damn head colds!)) Dale looked up and smiled a little at them. "Well, I'm just exploring is all. Wandering really. From town to town." She moved some hair out of her face that had fallen out of its messy braid. She smiled and continued to eat her salad, letting the mountain man with flame hair to answer. Jenti shrugged slightly as he ate. "I got bored." Dale glanced at the man with an odd look. What the crap did that mean? I got bored....so what? Éclair giggled a little at Jenti's response, it sounded like he went with the flow of the things that most interested him. Dale's rs ponce sparked her interest as well, if the young women was wandering then perhaps she's seen more than Éclair and wander combined." Miss. Dalea, it sounds so exciting to wander like you have, Zander and I have only been at it for a few weeks now, please tell me everything that you've seen!"Éclair exclaimed as she sat up in her seat, eyes all story and full of excitement! Zander laughed at Éclair, she was at it again and it hadent been long since her last wave of excitement!" Please don't mind her, she gets this way!" Zander stated laughing a little more as Éclair shot him a dirty look." Though i wouldn't mind hearing about some of the places you have encountered, from both of you if you didn't mind!" Zander added as he folded his hands together overtop his plate and smiled kindly to the other two!. Dale smiled a little ashamedly." Well, I've only really been away from home for a month or so. On foot, it takes awhile to get anywhere." In other words, she hadn't seen so many places yet. She was thinking of getting a horse from this place after she made some money. I'm sorry, i haven't been on in forever due to writer's block and busy and laziness! BTW I was thinking of causing some trouble with Éclairs brother, did you want to be the lightning guy?Éclair gave a smile at Dale's response, she was correct it did take a long time to get places, but Zander was making them move as quickly as possible and through as many crowded towns as he possibly could. This didn't bother Éclair, but it did make her want to return to those places and enjoy them longer." Its quite understandable,"Zander stated with a smile as he waved down the waitress." In reality Éclair and I have been to many places, but our stay has been very short in each." He stated with a smile." I did enjoy our stay on the coast!"Éclair commented a smile playing widely on her face. "I hope we can go their again, or to another ocean city!" She said with a small giggle." Yes dear what can I get for you?" the waitress asked as she arrived smiling happily." Can I get a small box to put this in, I'm afraid my stomach wasn't as hungry as I thought it was!" Zander said with a laugh."Of course darling, should I get your checks as well?" She asked as she put away her pad and pence." Just one check this was our treat for causing them trouble!" Zander commented before the waitress left. "Well, Your not much of a talker are you Jenti?" Zander asked as he folded his hand together a dleaned back in his chair.------------------------------"I found her!" A young boy said with a rather devilish smirk on his face." Sis, she's here!"he said a small laugh escaping him. It was almost as if he were stalking an animal, and he had finally corner it." I bet she doesn't even know I'm here.......what do you think?" He asked looking up at a much dollar man. "I bet sis forgot all about me......I bet she doesn't remember I'm looking for her!" He said sounding somewhat disappointed." I can see how she got distracted though....eh heh, heh These new places are really fun art they?" He laughed some more everything about this boy was strange and more than a little off! Name: Danial Gender: Mileage: 20Power: Ice Origin: Regent desert Dale sat silent as Jenti stiffened slightly. "I don't speak when I have nothing to say." It was simple, and he thought it got his point across quite effectively. Though, he didn't look upset or hostile.-------------------------------------------Fernand calmly watched the overly excited boy. He nodded slightly to show that he heard him, then looked inside the window. "I have to ask. Are you just chasing her for shits and giggles? Or is there a point to all this?" He'd never really gotten it out of him. Curiosity was annoying sometimes. "I see..." Zander replied to sent with a small sigh."That's a shame, how will people get to know you?" He asked still leaned back and relaxed." They will just have to ask the right questions!"Éclair stated as she finished her apple and tucked the other one away into a small sack at her feet."Don't you agree Jenti?"Éclair asked with a smile. Zander gave an amused chuckle before looking about the resurgent.... things seemed off!----"I'm doing as my king wishes me!" Danial hissed through clenched teeth,"sides I miss my sister... she is my other half!" he added as a small chilled aura circled around." I just want my sister back!" He continued as he stretched out his arm towards the window of the restrict and opened his hand. "His Majesty wants her back too.....he told me so!" the young man stated before inhaling deeply then slowly blowing out the breath he had taken. In an instant shard of ice shot through the window shattering it and killing any who were unfortunate enough to be sitting their." You can have the wind.... I want the water!" He Danial stated as he stepped forward, each step causing the ground to freeze over.---Éclair stood up greatly as the sound of shattering glass and scream erupted from the front of the restaurant. Her hands began to shake as well as the rest of her, she wanted to help, but she knew nothing could be done. Sanders attention was on Éclair the whole time, she would blow their cover and get them caught if she wasn't careful!" Sister, where are you hiding!?" Danial chimed as he stepped into the building through the window he had just destroyed. "Sis, where are you? I've been looking all over and you and your only making me kill people!" Danial stated as he early stopped a man from leaving. "You haven't seen my sis have you?" Danial asked as he began to freeze the man where he stood. The men screams pf "no" quickly turned into a choked off gasp before he was completely frozen." How troublesome!" Danial stated before casually pushing the iced man over and shattering his body on the floor."SIS, SHOW YOUR SELF!!" Danial nearly screamed.Éclair stood petrified now she was no longer shaking nor was she breathing, it was as if she had been a victim of this young men rampage. Zander slowly rose to his feet all the while keeping his eye on Danial, he knew if he drew attention to himself and the people at his table things would not end well."Éclair, run when I tell you to!"he stated as he placed both hands on either side of her face shaping her from her frozen state! Jenti shrugged slightly." I hadn't thought of it like that." Not that he had many friends, but he hadn't really tried either. This was pure luck on his part.-----Fernand wasn't too comfortable being inside. There was no sky inside, therefore his powers were halved. He just stood in the window, looking menacing. A dark grin on his face as he watched his friend terrorize the people in the café. He noticed the group of four sitting off in the corner and moved the wind slightly so that his friend's face would look towards them. Jenti frowned when he saw the man climb through the shattered window. His eyes shifted to Dale and the others, Dale being startled by the glass. Jenti slowly rose after a moment and moved beside Zander." I'd like to be of assistance if I could." He offered his help to him and looked at the girls." I think you and Dale should leave out the back entrance there." He nodded toward the alley exit that he'd noticed earlier when he'd picked the table. Dalea looked at Care and smiled gently. She wouldn't let anyone hurt her. She sort of reminded her of a girl she had gotten close to in her village. Furthermore, she glanced at the cruel man that had just walked in and frowned slightly. Furthermore, she could tell they were related now that she thought about it. Slowly rising and coming up Care's side. From left to right, it was; Jenti, Zander, Éclair and Dale. Danial flt the shifting the air and gave a small glance in the direction of Fernand, he looked at the man blankly before fallowing his gaze towards a small table in the back hidden away from almost everything. A wide grin spread across his face as he stared down each face. Two he did not know, but the other two were those of whom he was looking." Sis!, I'm so happy I found you!" Danial said with a small laugh as he turned his body towards the group. Zander had nodded his head at Jenti as a form of thank you for his offer. There was no doubt about it Danial had gotten quite a bit stronger and was defiantly more ruthless than he was when he and Éclair had left." Sis, You left me alone with him..... You left me alone, and I was so scared!" Danial stated his eyes looking very stressed, sad, and agonized. This caused Éclair to take a small step in the young men direction, but Zander stopped her." That's enough Danial, You're being unfair!" Zander stated a low growl in his thought as he spoke. Danial only glared hard at Zander." You know she loves you, but your chose the wrong path Danial!" Zander stated before pushing Éclair back towards the back entrance. The girl inhaled deeply before preparing to make a run for it, she looked more like her self again. She was determined, strong, and ready to fight for her life and others lives if she had to." All I want is my Sister back....She's all I have!" Danial stated as he opened his arms, Zander bent a little preparing for an attack." She is all I have...... She is mine!" Danial stated before releasing a heavy attack upon Zander. He had frozen so many drinks around him and was now using them as spiked javelins to send at Zander only." I want my other half!" Danial nearly screamed as he sent the iced drinks hurtling at the man." She isn't a possession!" Zander equally shouted back before forcing a vortex of air around himself and everyone else to deflect the shards of ice away. "Éclair, Miss. Dalea get going NOW!" Zander stated as he used his wind to push the two girls in the direction of the out." Watch out for thunder and lighting!"he added before fully pushing the two away and nearly out the door. Jenti couldn't help but grin as his hood slid back off his head. He took a step forward, just as Dale grabbed Éclair's wrist. When the man, Danial, attacked... Dalea pulled Éclair and ran for the exit. She gave a curt nod in Zander's direction and fled for Éclair's sake. She had dealt with lightning before. Keeping the forest safe from storms was her specialty. Jenti was suddenly behind a wall of flame. It burned nothing, acting as a shield for himself and Zander. The drinks melted on contact and splashed to the floor. Dalea gasped when she made it to the road and there stood the man she'd seen in the window." Hello, ladies." He cracked his neck and the thunder imitated him. She swallowed a little hard, then stepped in front of Éclair." What do you want?" Fernan grinned and nodded at Éclair." We came for Éclair. The King misses her something terrible. Plus, as you could see, her brother isn't too happy about her leaving either." Dale agave him a stone look." You'll have to get through me to get her. I've always stood against people who forced people to do anything against their will." Fernan chuckled darkly, and his eyes flashed like lightning." Have it your way." As soon as he finished speaking lightning flashed in the sky and thunder shook the ground they stood upon. Dale bent down and touched the earth as a sudden Trent of water dumped down upon them. She smiled and spoke soundlessly. Vines sprouted from the earth and started circling around the man's legs. Zander breathed a thanks to Jenti as the other man had evaporated the ice with a tremendous amount of flame. It was amazing what some for the elemental beings could do with their powers, some could only have the element present in order to control it while others could just materialize it! Zander could see that sent, like himself, had, had lots of practice with his powers and was able to what ever he wanted with them! This only placed a smile on the men face, he was glad that the flame was on his side against the Ice." You know.... I really hate you both!" Danial neared as he cleared at the two men before him." I especially hate you Zander!" Danial crawled."why Danial I never knew you sheared such feelings for me!" Zander said with an amused smile on his face. This only seemed to make Danial even more angered."but if you must hate me, why not do it in a place that doesn't make such a mess!" Zander stated before shoving his hands forward and sending a huge gust of air towards Danial. The young man took the hit full on. He flew to the other side of the bar and slammed agent the wall. A small scream of agony escaped him as well as an agonized cry for Éclair. Sanders expression went from one of triumph to one of annoyance. Danial was attempting to get Éclair back in this place so he could take both her and everyone else to the king." Jenti, I would advise agent harming him more than he needs!" Zander stated as Danial slumped to the floor and slowly used himself to his feet." Yes i wouldn't hurt me if I were you!" Danial said with a small laugh. He held his chest before grinning up at the two." Sis will get of fly mad if you do!" he added as he inhaled deeply and launched the same attack that had shattered the window.Éclair left with Dale without a fuss, though once faced with Fernand she couldn't help but freeze up once again. The man frightened her, she knew that his powers were stronger agent her than anyone else, she would not last in a fight. She didn't know if Dale would last either, well not till the girl bent low and sent vise to attack Fernand. Éclair couldn't help but give a small gasp, she knew the girl had been a little strange, but she never would have guessed that she was also an elemental like herself and wander." Fernan, I'm not going back to that bastard of a king!" Éclair snarled before raising her hands to the rain that fell."he will just have to live on without me!" She added before directing the water droplets to attack Fernand, almost like her brother froze the air moister around him and blew it at his opponents. The water droplets were very fast and sliced flesh like a hot knife through butter." Just go away and leave us alone!"Éclair shouted over the sound of the rain. Jenti just nodded slightly as his wall of flare evaporated once the danger was gone. He took in the whole view of the boy in front of him. Jenti's eyes seemed to light aflame when he'd finished talking with Zander." Leave this place, or be turned to a cinder." His voice was deep, and it carried over the room.--------------------------------Dale was impressed by Éclair's rage, but gently laid a hand on her arm." Come on. He won't be a problem for at least an hour." Seeing as Fernand was still fighting her vines and hissing with the cutting rain. She took Éclair and headed for the stables to get a ride. Danial gave a laugh that was sadistic and devilish in nature, He stood straight and started down Jenti and Zander. His gaze was very dark and filled with both rage and hate for the two of them."Didn't anyone ever tells you to never let your guard down?!" Danial asked as a small chuckle rumbled in his chest. "I don't give us very early, just ask Zander!" Danial stated with a other low chuckle. Zander watched the young man very carefully from across the room it was strange the way he was acting made it seems like he had an ace up hiss leave. "Danial, just stand down i don't know what my fire friend is capable of!" Zander warned as he straightened himself to show he didn't want to fight or play games anymore, Danial only laughed loudly." I mean it Danny! Stand down!" Zander stated causing Danial to stop laughing and glare coldly at Zander." Only Éclair can call me that!" Danial stated harshly before stomping his foot on the floor and causing a spike to emerge from the floor near Zander and nearly super him. Lucky Zander had the grace of the wind and managed to doge with only a small gash and scratch. "You won't take my sister away from me!" Danial streaked angrily as he made more spikes come up from the frozen floor." Damnit! Why didn't I see it from the start!" Zander cursed as he kept his eyes on the floor." He was freezing it the entire time he was in here!" He explained as he held his side and attempted to avoid any further injury to himself.-----------------------------------------------Éclair added her head and went with Dalai to the stables, it didn't matter that these horses belonged to someone else, all Eclairs wanted was to get out of this town, away from Danial and Fernand, and away from danger." Grab one for Jenti I'll get one for Zander!"Éclair informed as she hopped atop a strong looking Italian and gathered another Italian for Zander. It wasn't hard to control the large horses they early did as they were told, but Éclair couldn't help but feel some form of guilt for taking them from their masters. Jenti's face had turned into a scary dark look. Like the one on Danial's face, but different. Dark and calculating. If you stared into his eyes, you could tell he was a veteran. At what, the person never wanted to know, it was too evil to even think about. Jenti's aura seemed to emanate around the room. Almost like heat waves. The temperature in the room spiked, reaching temperatures close to 120 degrees. Jenti never broke a sweat. It actually made him relax, his whole body seemed to bask in the warmth. His arms lighted and nothing around him could freeze. It would be like throwing ice into lava. Instant melting. He suddenly charged at Danial, a merciless look in his eyes.-----------------------------Dale looked over the horses quickly a took a strong mare and stallion. She knew the two would butt heads, but at least she wouldn't have to worry about colts in the future. When Éclair wasn't paying attention, Dale pulled off a necklace that was almost completely hidden under her cloak. It held a sapphire the size of an eye. She placed it in a bag and hung it on a nail where one of the horses had been. She figured it would cover the cost of the four horses. Furthermore, she hated stealing. Furthermore, she mounted her stallion and nodded to Éclair."Let's go." She said with no emotion, still being in protective mode. She rode out of the stable and headed back toward the café with the other stallion in tow. The heat within the room became all too stifling for Zander, so much so that he was forced to create a mini tornado around himself just to stave off the heat and keep himself from passing out! He watched as Danial amped himself up and staved off the heat wave with a cloud of freezing mist. Whatever amount of water there was floating in the air Danial used to freeze and create any amount of weaponry he could. It was clear to Danial that the moisture in the air was vanishing due to the heat, and the only way he would have any possibility of winning was if he could get Jenti outside and into the rain." Jenti let us withdraw!" Zander stated as he straightened himself and reached outside his mini whirlwind to try and grab the man before him. It was a terrible mistake because the closer Zander hand got to sent the hotter it became until he was literally burned by the air. Hissing a little wander pulled his arm back to his body to examine the burn. Danial, wanting nothing more to do with these fools, slowly stepped to the side. The heat was evaporating away any of the moisture in the air that he was using to make weapons. He also knew that making a sword from ice or even the shards wouldn't stand up to these guys powers. Danial would just have to get him outside where Fernand's rain could help him create stronger weapons.----Éclair nodded her head as she fallowed Dale keeping right up with the young women. She just wanted to get Zander and Jenti away from her brother, she knew he would be trying to kill them and like wise for Zander and Jenti. Once they had reached the café Éclair jumped from the horse and to the shattered window. "Zander JE-" She stopped as she took in the sight of a massive heat wave within the place and her brother being forced out in her direction. Shaking off the feeling of dread Éclair stomped her foot." Zander Jenti lets go, leave him he's not worth it!" She stated as she began to feel her brother freeze the water that dripped of her cloak." Hurry before I let him freeze me to this spot!" She added causing Zander to use his wind to push Danial back away from Éclair. Jenti was in another state of mind. All that mattered was defeating the enemy. 'He is the enemy!' 'Burn him!' 'Make him as ash!' The voices yelled in his head. As he advanced towards Danial, he could sense the almost panic come over the boy. A sinister smile made his mouth spread wide on his face. He could taste the advantage he had. He barely felt Zander touch his flame, but the sharp his of pain that came from the man's lips brought the voices in Jenti's head to a dull murmur. Furthermore, he looked at Zander and regret leaked into his eyes. The sinister smile soon diminished as he looked back to the boy now heading out into the rain. He knew that he would have the advantage outside. He cursed softly under his breath and the flames became marble, unable to hurt those of his choosing. Furthermore, he grasped Zander's wrist and pulled him in the direction of the girls on horseback. Furthermore, he'd just realized they were even there.------------------------Dale saw what was happening and started to get closer to the wrecked café. She hissed softly as her hair began to wilt, just as that of a flower on a very hot and dry day. She had to move back away from the place and looked in Éclair's direction. Furthermore, she growled softly and rode her horse between Éclair and her brother. Zander wasn't quite expecting Jenti to take him by the arm and lead him out, in fact he hadent been expecting it at all. He tripped over his own feet as he was pulled out into the rain and to a Vincent horse. Now able to gather what they needed to do Zander called to Éclair who was too busy with Dale and her brother. The young man was beginning to throw a tantrum, he screamed things at Dale that even a sea worthy man would turn his head at,"Let's get going!" Zander shouted causing Éclair to pull herself away from her bother and up onto a horse." I'm sorry dear brother!" Éclair murkier as the boy heaved himself through the shattered window and froze the surrounding rain. He was amping up and both wander and éclair knew this, as he released racer sharp shards of ice upon the small grape, Éclair created a barrier of muddy and rain water that managed to stop them, while Zander used the air around Danial to push him back into the trapped Fernand."Let's get going!" Zander stated as he spurred the horse and moved out of the small town and into the vast lands ahead. "Anyplace is better than this place!" Zander stated as he glanced back at Danial and Fernand. Éclair was right beside Zander as he took off, she knew better than to stray behind him. Jenti almost appeared in the saddle of his horse, like he'd been there the whole time. He rode off once everyone else had gone. Dale was right behind the pair as Jenti soon passed them and took point. He was more offensive than defensive, being fire. He'd noticed what he'd done to Dale's hair too, so he was trying to distance himself from her. Zander quickly took the rear, he used his abilities to race their tracks as they went, it would take a lot out of him, but it was worth it in the end. Éclair staid to the middle She didn't want to fall be hind as that would hurt wander, and she didn't want to get too aged of everyone as that would just cause confusion and agitation with wander later on." I'm sorry everyone!" She managed to say as they rode." I'm sorry for my brothers actions, and I'm sorry for making you go through this!" She added her head bowed as she rode, her hood fully covering her face." I guess this means we owe the both of you a little more than just dinner!" Zander shouted so that he could be heard. He was attempting to lighten the mood. He knew Éclair was upset she always got this way after seeing Danial, but fussing over it now would not fix the over all problem!" I say we just keep going and see where it leads us!" Zander added a smile flashing on his face to anyone who looked back." Anyplace away from that oath Fernand is better an anyplace around him!" He said with a small laugh.------Danial cursed as he was tossed back by wander he tried to stand back up but the wind master had knocked him so hard that he could hardly breathe let along have a chance of standing. He simply slipped forward and landed face-first into the mud unable to see where his sister was going. This made him even more mad, so much so that instead of rain it began snowing. He wasn't just mad that he would have to re find his sister, but that Fernand hadn't even tried to stop her and the other girl from gathering horses and taking off. Dale went to be beside Éclair and smiled softly to her. She concentrated and made a vine grow up the reins of Éclair's horse and in her lap bloomed a radiantly colored flower, almost like a daffodil, but a breed all its own. She hoped that would at least make her smile a little bit. Furthermore, she knew how her family made her feel when she saw them...she could just imagine what it felt like to have them chasing you all over the continent. Jenti had glanced back and couldn't help but see the flower's light glow to illuminate Éclair's face. It saddened him to see such a face, hoping she would be in better spirits when they stopped.---------------------------Fernand growled, and the storm raged, soon the lightning struck at his feet and the vines lit aflame. He shook them off soon enough, with little injury to himself. He stepped up to Danial and snarled. "That one took me by surprise, she did." Danial cleared up at Fernand, things have taken him by surprise before but with little reproduction." What ever you say," Danial said with a small snarl." I just wonder what his majesty will think when he finds out you were beat up by a little girl!" he finished before stepping forward to see leave in the direction his sister had gone." This is going to be tedious and annoying once again!" Danial muttered as he continued on in that same direction. As he expected Zander had raced their traces once on dry ground." Its almost like she doesn't want to be around me!" He spoke to no on in particular." Its hurtful knowing that!"--------------------------------------------Éclair sniffed and wiped the tears that had fall down her face, she didn't want her new friends to feel sorry for her. Though this still didn't stop her from being extremely emotional. Her brother had caused them trouble since she and Zander escaped the castle, and now that two more people were involved, éclair worried that they would be taken in by the king and forced to be his army. Thinking of these things caused the girl to suck in her breath and start to cry once again, but Dale's kindness made her tears slow. The flower she had created as increasingly beautiful, it somehow lifted her spirits a little. Again Éclair wiped her face, but this time she looked over to Dale." Thank you, its very beautiful" She said as she pulled her Hui back to better see Dale." You seem to be very talented with your abilities, I envy you a little." Éclair said with a small laugh as she finished. Zander gave a smile as he could see Éclair was feeling a little better, He could tell Dale had given her something but his position didn't allow him to see what that something was. But he could wait, till they stopped for the night, in a few more hours. "Hey, Jenti!" Zander called to the leader of their small pack." Take us some place far away from the east!" He shouted with both hands cupped on either side of his mouth." If we get any where's close to the east he will be all over our tails and then theirs no escape!" He said more to himself than to anyone who was listening. His wind still whipped around behind his horse as the y road. Any trace of the small pack was raced causing their followers difficulty! Fernand hadn't been effected by his taunting for years. He watched Danial's display of childish behavior as he followed with easily. It wastoodifficult to follow his sister, it wasn't like the wind wouldn't find them. He was good at making storms that washed them out of certain places of made them hole up somewhere. They would find them eventually. This time, that girl would not surprise him.-------------------------Dale's mood lifted a little with the suddenly happier expression on Éclair's face. She had a soft heart that way. She couldn't leave someone acting thus when she knew she could help. Furthermore, she nodded slightly at her comment." Thank you. I used to practice a lot when I was alone. Creating new flowers helped cheer me up when I was confined to my chambers." This happened frequently since she tended to be somewhat of a rebel in her native community. Always running off to the normal human populations and cities. It infuriated her mother so, that once she was imprisoned for 3 years! Though, she didn't look more than 20 at most. Jenti looked back at Zander and nodded. He continued looking for somewhere far ahead that they could stop at. He was an apt tracker and scout. Having been trained to do so in his land's army for so long. Danial gave a low grumble as well as sigh, it couldn't be helped that his sister was once again gone and so were others like him. "I guess well just have to start walking!" Danial stated as she stepped in the direction he knew the group had gone. "I suggest staying away from the east!" Danial added as he tilted his direction more west." Zander knows better than to travel east and would want to stay as far away from it as possible!"----------------Éclair smiled as Dale talked about how she had lots of prat ace, It felt sort of nice knowing she wasn't the only one who had been imprisoned for a portion of her life. " You do have very amazing talents, all I can do is produce, and control the water." Éclair said as she did so. She made it flow around making waves in the surrounding air as well as Dale. "I wish I could change its shape, but My brother was the one talented enough to do that." She said her voice sounding somewhat distant and sad when she mentioned her brother.((Sorry short)) Fernand followed without another word. He knew where they needed to go and where to find the four, but he would say nothing until Danial didn't know where to go. He would lose his way eventually and Fernand would lead him back on the right path without Danial even realizing he'd done it. Furthermore, he got angry when Fernand looked as though he were being superior or smarter than him. Furthermore, he just avoided the anger, only because it was annoying and inconvenient.-----------------------------------Dale smiled and nodded."That's alright. I can help you hone your ability if you wish. Ice is another form of water, so you could learn to control that too, if you practice enough." She was being optimistic, plus trying to boost Éclair's spirits. It was rare that someone could control more than one specific part of an element. She could only control plants....never had she been able to move the earth of make it more fertile for her plants to thrive. Though she yearned for that ability. She thought of all their abilities and a crazy idea struck her mind, then she went into deep thought about it, becoming quiet. Jenti slowed down a bit when he was confident that they could spare a few minutes to rest the horses to speak with Éclair." I am actually very EVies of those who can control water. I have only been able to destroy with fire, but water heels. Furthermore, I was told once that fire could make life, but the only sense I've gotten from that was you could have warmth from fire." Éclair gave a small sigh at the suggestion of controlling ice, she had thought of that but briefly within her childhood and only little bit as she grew older." I think my brother is the only part of me that can control the ice aspects of water," She said with a kind smile. She did like the idea and often thought that if she were able to control lice then perhaps her brother would be freeded from the responsibilities, but recently the idea posed possible freedom of his insanity." Like wise, I am the only part of him that can control water." She added before seeing that Dalia was deep in her own thoughts. An amused sigh escaped her as she rode on. She did indeed feel much better than before, Éclair was glad to have met Dale and sent both seemed to care for the people they were around even if it was just a break meeting.Éclair smiled lightly at Jenti as he slowed to keep pace with herself and Dale. She listened intently as he said he envied her, or rather water users. As he explained Éclair too though of how fire could be used to heal, it was such an odd concept but she figured if trained properly then it should be possible."I'm sure it's possible!" Éclair spoke with thought clinging to her words. "I don't know much about healing, but I'm sure that you could learn to heal just as you've learned everything else!" she said with a smile." Personally I've only been able to create rain, or an oasis with my water!" Éclair gave a small laugh, being forced to keep her desert home from drying up was her and her brothers main use within the village, so it would make since that she would only know how to do those things. "I early was able to learn something about healing and life-saving before my brother and I were taken any from our home!" She explained a small sigh coming from her. Zander couldn't help but sit back and grumble to himself, sure he was stuck in the back, but someone could early come and talk to him just like they did with Éclair." Its just because she has that sad little face all the time!" He muttered to himself."That's of fly mean of me, Éclair is a good girl and it's just her brother that makes her that way!" He spoke to himself now, this would only worsen as they continued. Eventually he carried on an entire conversation with himself about numerous things that might float in and out of his slightly fragile mind.----------------------------------"You know Fernand, I don't know as if I really care for that fire guy!" Danial finally spoke up as he stood on top of a large rock looking out over a vast dry land." He got kind of scary back their, it was pretty freaky!" He said with a small laugh as he closed his eyes and rubbed his hands together. Furthermore, he was lowering his body temperature and creating another ice Myst about himself." If I meet him again I might be in for a big fight!" Danial sighed and opened his hand to the land before him." I think sis high really like him, even more than Zander!" Danial shifted again as the ground began to freeze before him. He was testing how far and how thick he could layer his abilities. So far it was only a vast freezing and frosting of the ground before him." I wonder how far there gotten?" He asked as he dropped his arms and glared at the ocean before him." I wonder if they are going to sleep outside or in an inn...." Danial wondered before topping from the rock and stepping on a frozen plant. It crunched under his foot as he stepped upon it."Let's keep going, cant quit now!" He added with a cheese grin plastered upon his face as he looked back at Fernand Jenti had taken Éclair's words to heart, and it made him feel optimistic. Dale was still deep in thought when Jenti came over, so she didn't hear a word either of them said. She did hear grumbling in the background though. Suddenly, her idea sunk into her mind and she gave a triumphant sound." I've got it!" She yelled happily. Jenti blinked at her and looked extremely confused." Got what?" Dale smiled and was about to explain, but realized that Zander wasn't there." Hey you! Would you mind joining us?" She was about to say he was being a loner, but he didn't seem in the mood for proving." I have a way that we could make our own Utopia!"-------------------------Fernand was very quiet around Danial, for the reason he was always around prideful people. To avoid fights. Even arguments. He was more of an 'if there's nothing to gain from fighting, then I won't' type of personality. But, when in a fight, he was ruthless. He'd once fried an enemy to a crisp with one lightning bolt! But, he didn't outwardly brag about it. It made Danial angry. Zander glanced up when he was spoken to, in response his winds died own to a simple breeze as he joined the group." 'Our own Utopia'?" Zander echoed with confusion. "Why would we need one of those!?" He asked as he looked at Dalia waiting for an answer. Éclair shaired her companions confusion, A utopia?" If we had our own place to live then we would be safe right?" She asked her head tilting to the side as she inquired about the need for a place like that." Heh, how optimistic!" Zander said his demeanor suddenly down and upsetlike." Zander," Éclair began but wander only shook his head, he retreated to being the back of the pack once more." Please for give him, Do enplane though, I am serious about your idea."Éclair said with a kind measuring smile.----------------------------------Danial walked aged of Fernand, he had reverted to his own thoughts for quite a long while, but it wouldn't be long now before the silence got to him and his thoughts caused delusions within reality." Fernan!"it happened he snapped." What do I do, Sis hates me, she wishes me dead doesn't she!?" She asked hurriedly." What if she won't come back with us, what if she uses wander to try and kill me!?"he asked again this time rushing to the man and grabbing his shirt like a small frightened child. "I don't want my sis to leave me, but she hates me doesn't she!?" Daniels delusions caused him to have such a burst of emotion that earth streamed down his face."Doesn't she!?" He asked speaking an answer to his previous question. Dale was actually more worried than she should've been with Zander's tone. Maybe he always had mood swings? It was almost like her when she was locked up, but he didn't really have a reason to be that way. She smiled at Éclair, glad someone was interested in her idea." Well, think about it. You possess the ability to control water, yes? You could make a barrier around our land, then Jenti here could help in making the land hospital for only us. I would help in growing the plants we would need to survive. Making sure they are healthy and what not. Zander here, well, he could help me spread my species by using the air to carry my plant's pollen to other areas of our Utopia so that I do not have to spread myself so thin and let mother nature take control. If there are plants that wildlife will eat, then they will eventually wander over and populate the area. Which, takes care of meat for you guys." She smiled and waited for comments, though she was ready to combat criticism.-----------------------Fernand shook his head after Danial was done." I don't believe she hates you. From her point of view, I'd think she just doesn't want to be a prisoner. You are trying to take her back to that. The action is what she hates, not the person following orders." He had just revealed how deep this muscle head could be. Zander stayed back all the while thinking of that same promise of that cynical king.--- "If you come with me, you won't ever have to be chained down!" that voice echoed through his head. "I can free the wind, and you can roam as you please!" he said a kind smile playing on his face. "I shall allow you all the freedoms the wind should ever want!" "My own paradise?" Zander asked his eyes filled with sleeplessness, hope, desire. "A place where no one can bother me?" He continued. "Oh yes, and much more!" The king cooed that same smile on his face as he spoke. ---"I can't believe I fell for it!" Zander muttered as he glared ahead at the horizon. "No one can make a paradise for the wind!" He added with an irritated sigh." You don't think was a little too harsh do you?"he suddenly asked the horse as he leaned forward to pat the animal. In response the horse nodded its head and weenie." What do you know about it?" He asked slightly astonished. "Your idea of paradise is a couple of carrots and apples!" Zander stated feeling as though he had won, but the horse only shook its whole body almost in protest." Hey, hey, hey! Don't think you know more than me!" He stated placing both hands on his hips as he sat atop the animal."You're just a pack animal!" This didn't help Zander one bit, to show its distaste for the men attitude the horse simple shook its body and reared on its hind legs. Zander had no time to grasp for the reins and stay atop the animal, but instead fell flat on his back.Éclair, listened to the explanation and found it to be rather interesting they really could create their own utopia away from anyone who would harm them or who would use them for their own gain."It's a wonderful idea, especially if we could get our own island then we wouldn't ever have to worry about people finding us!" She said as the image penetrated her mind and caused her to daydream. Though the dream didn't last long as she was pulled from it by the wound of Sanders shouts at falling and the whistle of his winds dispersing." Zander, what did you do to your horse!?" Éclair asked as she turned hers around and trotted it in a circle around dander. "This is why your not allowed near any animal!" She scolded as she grasped the rains to Sanders horse keeping it from running off on them." I didn't do anything, it just got an attitude with me!" Zander stated as he got up and dusted himself off. "Now lets just get going again!" He stated as he snagged the rains and trued to battle up. It didn't happen the horse moved to the side every time Zander managed to get his footing ready to hoist himself up."OH COME ON!" Zander snarled at the animal as he found himself sitting on the ground glaring up at the horse. Éclair couldn't help but giggle at her friends' situation, it seemed Zander did more than nothing.-----------------------------"You really think so?" Danial asked as he listened to Fernand's reply. It seemed to ring true, his sis did always seem sad when she left him. "Let's go and get sis then we can keep her out of the castle for as long as she wants!" Danial said a smile playing on his face. He pulled himself away from the other man and turned to the open land." This way, well find them in no time!" Danial stated as he started off towards the west." Sis will be so happy when I give her the news!" Danial said with a happy smile and laughed." By the way, I never knew you could be so intuitive Fernand!" Danial stated as he spun on his heel and walked backwards. "You shouldn't keep these things secret from me!" he said a wide grin on his face." How will I ever get the best answers if you're all gruff and tough?" He asked as he puffed up his chest and imitated a muscle man. Danial continued to walk backwards in a westerly direction figuring it was the right way to go. Dale smiled, happy that they liked her idea. But, she was concerned about Zander. When the horse reared and threw him off. She stopped and turned her horse, a confused look on her face. She smiled and walked her horse over and made a small tree grow on the side of the road. A single red apple grew down from it, and she plucked it from the tree." Here you go." She said softly to Zander's horse after he'd gotten back on. She held it out to the horse's mouth and smiled kindly. Furthermore, she wanted the horse to calm down, so Zander wouldn't have too much more trouble with it. Jenti chuckled when he heard the horse rear. He turned only slightly to watch the scene unfold in front of him. He thought it amusing that the animal didn't like Zander.----------------Fernand could only chuckle at Danial's sudden change in mood. Furthermore, he followed him after he'd imitated him as a 'muscle man' and just had an amused smile on his face as he did." Maybe you should try thinking of the answers. Instead of asking me all the time." Éclair gave a small sigh as Zander was finally able to sit atop his horse one again, no, thanks to Dale. She watched as he made himself comfortable and waited for everyone to get ahead of him." Zander apologize for the way you acted!"was all Éclair said before she reared her horse and went to Jenti's side. Zander was going to say something, but Éclair was too quick for him to even open his mouth. Now the man was left with himself and Dalia." Umm, Thanks for distracting my horse!"he said a little shyly. He didn't know exactly what he was apologizing for, it was his honest opinion after all, and he didn't think it would work! I guess I was a little harsh!he thought as he trotted his horse forward keeping pace with Dale as well as stirring up his winds! I just don't trust fan-no I can't say that she's just a kid after all.....ehhhhZander stayed quiet as he contemplated everything and anything he could say to both make his point and apologize.-----------------Danial shook his head as he walked ahead of Fernand, "I couldn't do that, I cherish your opinions too much!" he said with a grin on his face as he looked back at his friend! Dale didn't really say anything to Zander, but she smiled softly and turned her horse to follow the others." I figured he just wanted to feel appreciated." She hadn't really gotten a clear answer from him about her idea and she wanted to know what he really thought. So, after they went along the road for a few minutes, she turned her face to him." So, I never really got an opinion from you." She waited as the horse walked along. Her face seemed eager to hear what he thought, but also wary because she didn't want to hear it put down.------------------------------------Fernand chuckled softly as he followed behind his friend. He didn't really understand why he hadn't given anyone advice except for Danial. Then again, he hadn't met anyone that needed it as bad as him. Zander looked down at his horse as Dalia suggested that the animal wanted to be appreciated. He could see that, everyone and everything did deserve some kind of appreciation for their work. So to make up for his earlier actions Zander patted the horses neck and promised him some nice juice apples.... when he had the money! This caused the horse to NEH as well as shake its head at the money part. With a small smile of triumph Zander straightened up and went back to his thoughts. Though Dalia spoke again about what he had thought of her idea, and again Zander was stuck trying to find the right words. "Well, I don't like it!" he finally broke down and sighed. "And it's not because it's a bad idea but its because of the precautions that will come if we have our own sanctuary!" He said and began to explain. "The way I see it is this, Men constantly are searching for new lands, so we may have piece for our life but then what of those that fallow us!?" He asked again sighing. "Eventually our little place will be found out, and those that we have allowed to live with us, or those who have become our heirs will have to suffer being subject to the same kind of oppression we are currently experiencing. I just don't want that to happen, especially to a son or daughter or even grand children, of mine!" he stated as he looked ahead not really wanting to see Dalia's reaction to his pessimistic view of life. Éclair glanced back at her friend, it seems as though he had finally opened up to Dalia about the idea of a place of their own. Though he did look as though it was bad news he was giving. A small sigh escaped the girl as she trotted along beside Jenti. "He never has good thoughts!" She muttered with a sigh as she glanced back once again.-----------Danial continued to lead the way, though he had no trail to fallow, and he probably was going in the complete wrong direction he knew that the way he was going would lead him to his sister. It hadn't failed him so far, and they did have to take a longer and more round about way of finding her, but they always found her. "Fernand, I don't have to bring back those other ones do I!?" Danial asked as he climbed over a rock. "Because I really want to kill that fire user," he stated with a small growl. "Fire and water don't mix, he's sure to harm her right!?" He asked looking back at Fernand. ((sorry for the delay, I've been having drifters block, and have been really busy with school!)) Dale blinked slightly at him when he was finished, then she sighed." I understand your point of view....they would eventually find us out. I can understand the aching need for adventure... I had it when I was imprisoned for years at a time. Furthermore, I never sat still as a child and I haven't since." She finally looked at him with desperation and hope in her eyes. "If we are cautious enough then we can keep it safe, if not secret. Almost like a fortress. Those like us who would seek refuge from the wars and persecution may come to our abode. We would be able to expand if we gathered too many and set basic laws. Us four would be the founders and sort of like rulers, but not rulers at the same time. People would do as they please as long it didn't harm another or take of which is not his." She looked at him, almost like she was pleading for him to see that it could work. Jenti looked at Éclair, then glanced back at them." I hear what she says. Her intentions are honorable, but humans are roan to mistakes and things will go array. You'd have to set precautions into place to prevent mass murders and people wanting to rise up and be the ruler."---------------------Fernand looked at him oddly, then shook his head." Not likely. He seemed to be wanting to protect her and the plant grower." He climbed over the rock Danial just did. Furthermore, he stopped and looked at Danial for a moment." He has almost perfect control over his powers. Furthermore, he couldn't harm her on accident." Zander listened to Dalia and the hope she had within her voice. Occasionally he glanced at her to see that her eyes were pleading with him, She waned him to see how this would work out well for them, how they could all live peacefully and set up boundaries for any and all who come into their land. Zander couldn't help but quark a small smile at how enthusiastic, and hopeful she was. In all of his 25 years no human had been kind to him, and when he thought they were he only later found that they were planning to take advantage of him. He had lost all hope in people who weren't like him, that was why he and Éclair gotten along so well, and why he warmed up to Jenti and Dalia. Heaving a sigh Zander found himself giving in, but only a little. "I don't know how well this will work, but I will try my best to see where it goes!" He said as he looked over at Dalia waiting for her reaction. "Just tell me what you need, and I will do by best to obtain it!" Zander added with a small encouraging smile.Éclair nodded her head at Jenti's comment, humans were pron to mistakes and that was why the four of them were in the situation they were. Humans had caused them to run and be fearful of everything that may exercise their lives. "I would love to have a place of my own where I know I'm safe, but as you say, we would have to place so many precautions," She said with a small sigh. "We would never be able to relax would we?"she asked and looked over to Jenti. Unknown to her, was her eyes they showed fear. Indeed, Éclair was frightened, she had been running for days now, and it seemed no matter where she went the "bad guys" always found her.----------------------Danial gave a small irritated growl at Fernand's comment, he didn't want to here that, he wanted to hear that the fire user was going to hurt his sister. Knowing that would give him reason to kill the man and take his sister back to the castle." King Zaire would let me, That's why were here, because sis and the with wind went away!" He stated as he walked on and scuffed his feet on the ground. "I don't like that fire user, I wish he was gone!"he said with a little pout. Dale loved his answer, her face suddenly brightening. If she wasn't on a horse, she'd have hugged him. With him cooperating in her plan, she would not really have to do a lot of convincing and things would go smoother." Yay! Ok. We'd just need to find a place that is far out of the way, so it'd be hard to get to in the first place. Once we change it, it'll be virtually impossible to get to unless invited by one of the creators. Which would be us four." She smiled and thought more on her plan. Jenti shrugged slightly." What would you do for freedom? I'd gladly have only five minutes of rest a day if I could have my freedom." He didn't mind the tediousness that running a kingdom takes. He grew up with the responsibility and was used to it.--------------Fernand sighed." I wish I had a horse." He chuckled." I also wish I had a beautiful, bust girl to call my own. But, you don't see that happening." He shook his head." There's no use wishing, and you can't have everything you want." Zander gave a small smile as he listened to the excitement filled Dalia talk about how they would make their utopia it sort of reminded him of himself when he was freed from the chains and shackled of the cell he had lived in for years. He had the same kind of thoughts when that king came and promised lies. But he wouldn't say anything right now, he would let Dalian be happy. Seeing her like that made him feel light and wistful like the wind, like himself. A small laugh came out of him at that moment, and he quickly covered it as a cough." Where did that come from?" He said with another fake cough and smile. "I think we should see about the mountains, or an island, your choice!" Zander said a wide smile crossing his features as he moved his horse closer to Dallas and then land in. He was playing cool again, a good sign that he was in a good mood.Éclair looked over at sent as he spoke, he sounded so determined and uncaring about on being able to relax for a short time. Maybe it was the fate of people like them to want such a life and if attained then it would be one of little rest. But then again Éclair felt herself feeling determined to have that life, perhaps this was also the fate of her kind." I would stay up for days if it meant keeping utopia safe!" She stated as she looked ahead, determination griping her." I would want everyone to be happy and to never have to live in fear again!" She added before looking over to sent. She caught his approval for her thoughts and words. "I'm not foolish for wanting or being determine for these things am I?" She asked feeling her cheese warm a little with a blush of embarrassment.-----------------------------------------------Danial snorted at Fernand comment about not being able to have everything. He knew that, when he and Éclair lived in the desert they were always locked away, hidden from everyone else, no one was allowed to see them except the breasts and the priestesses. The one thing he had ever wanted in those days was to have a friend, someone who wasn't his sister, to talk to in the night. Then the king came and gave him people to talk to, it made him happy until Éclair strayed away from him."You're a very crude kind of guy sometimes Fernand!" Danial stated as he continued on." If I want something His majesty said I could have it!" He stated and kicked at the ground. "I want my sister, and I want Zander and that fire guy dead!" He added clearing at the horizon." I'll kill them my self if you won't!" He snarled and looked back at the man." But you won't let me take Zander life will you, That came belongs to you doesn't it!?" Daniels eyes had become that ice glare, that they were when they began this tedious search, as he spoke about fade between wind and lightning.((sorry for the long wait, I was having trouble with writer's block then when I finally had some kind of time to think I had to think about school work! HHH I'm sorry!)) ((I think its nice that you care so much to put that much thought into it.)) Dalea watched him as he spoke, hope in her eyes. Her eyes looked at him oddly when he started to laugh, but she smiled again when he pushed it off as a cough." I think I'd like to be on an island. I do love the ocean as if were." She hadn't noticed him getting closer to her." That way we are isolated enough to defend ourselves if 'normal' humans come to try and invade us." She smiled at him once more, but he was closer, and she blinked." So, what do you think?" She wanted to see him happy as well as everyone else. To have a place where they didn't have to choose sides and live in peace. Jenti watched Éclair speak, she had such passion and fire. Even though she was the element of water. It was confusing and intriguing. He smiled at her kindly when she asked his opinion." I don't think that you sound foolish. I find your determination admirable." He bowed slightly to her in his sale. Then he smiled at her." I think that anyone willing to go through with their dreams are the most courageous people on the planet."------------Fernand blinked slightly." Well, the King lied to you. Have you ever thought that maybe the King has lied about everything?" He shook his head at Danial. He'd been a spoiled child practically raised in the King's care. Furthermore, he'd always been told he could have what he wanted and nobody could tell him otherwise. Fernand was the only one that ever told him such things. He valued Danial's friendship, but he wouldn't let him be spoiled if he could fix it. He looked calmly back at Danial's angry expression." Now. See here. I only wish to settle the score. That's all." ((I try, I just feel bad when I'm too busy to play with my hobby’D Tee he Fernand made me smile He's just a big scary Brut who had a soft spot for Danial! Now I see that he's a big bruit with a soft spot for Daniel.)) Zander leaned back in his saddle seeing that his "charm" was lost on this girl, he would have to bug Éclair later to fix his pride."what do I think?" Zander asked looking over at Dalia with a small musical expression." Well I think a lot of things, most of them cannot be mentioned around such a nice girl, as your self!" He said in a tone suggesting he was thinking such things at that moment."BUT my thoughts on the subject at hand, well that's different!" He stated sounding a little bored with the topic. "I think we can get away with having an island, it's just getting their that's the problem!" he said as he looked up at the sky." Then the other problem is if the island is already taken or just uninhabitable." He said still watching the sky above." So many worries, and so much trouble!" he muttered as his eyes fallowed a passing cloud." Wish I could be up their with the free wind!" he muttered once again with a sigh before coming back to earth." I would rather live on an uninhabitable island, then no one would bother us!"he stated and stretched his arms and legs." I also would like to find another town or something," Zander said WTH a groan." This horse backs riding stuff is a pain."Éclair gave a small smile at Tennis remarks about her being admirable, she had never been called that before. The largest compliment like that, was one of how pretty she was. But that wasn't this kind of compliment, and the women who called her that meet it in a sad way as if to say she was so pretty it was a pity mo boy would ever be allowed to have her as his wife. As sent bowed and smiled to her Éclair found she was being drawn out of her thoughts and to this boy she had early known for very long. She felt another blush cross her face this time not of embarrassed, she was blushing because ENIT was inadvertently complimenting her again. She quickly looked away knowing not wanting him to see her blushing like this. Though it was probably too late, he more than likely had the pleasure of watching the gradual change of color to her cheeks." I-I agree." She stammered as she let her head turned. "Anyone who is strong enough to work for their dreams is indeed the most courageous person!"Éclair said in agreement with sent. But she didn't know what more to say that would get her into trouble with blushing." So why do you hide your hair?" She suddenly blurted without thinking as she remembered when sent had hid his hair from them in the previous town. "I-I mean its such a pretty color, it's a shame to hide it like you do!" She said trying to make the conversation more casual as well as enplane her sudden and rather intrusive question.--------------------Danial was taken aback by Fernand statement, a lot of people had told him the king had lied to him, and that it was a bad habit of the kings, but he had refused to believe it. Danial was now forced to take this statement and dwell on it for the remainder of the time he was away." His majesty has his reason for lying!" Danial stated"He would not spin lies if they didn't help in some way!" He stated as he pureed his lips in protest, he hadent done that in a while." And aside from that the king would tell me the truth if I asked!" Danial stated in a matter-of-fact way. Before he stomped aged of Fernand, he had gone back to being his childish self. After hearing his second comment though Danial couldn't help but laugh." What score? You mean that lousy one her you only have like 3 wins and 10 losses!" Danial laughed, whether or not that was the actual score Manila didn't know, it was just what he had heard from servants within the castle!((tee he, IDK what the score should be i imaging It's actually quite even at this point, Zander is just ahead by one or two:P)) Dale looked at him as he spoke. The way he spoke at first made her blush softly, but she hid it by letting some loose hair fall in her face. Everything else he said was quite pessimistic, and it made Dale's mood head south. She wasn't smiling anymore, and she was staring at the pommel of her saddle with a strange sadness that had overcome her. Even when she tried to find someone that would grant her and those of her kind peace, it was poked full of holes. It made me so sad. Little vines started crawling over her arms, starting to show how sad her mood had turned. Jenti enjoyed seeing Éclair smile, he'd just realized this. For some reason he felt as if he'd do anything to make that happen. He liked the pride that leaked into her eyes and posture. Her words made him smile a little, but it slipped slightly when she asked of his hair." I don't like drawing attention to it or myself. You never know who's watching you." Then he blinked and smiled slightly at her." Don't mind me, I can be a little paranoid."--------------------Fernand just shook his head at Danial. He was such a child. The King only lied for personal gain, just like every other human. Danial saw him as a father figure, and it was almost impossible to change his opinion of the King. Not to mention the fact that the boy had been brainwashed by that King ever since he and her sister were found. Fernand said nothing on Danial's jab about the score between Zander and himself. Zander regained his composure and glanced over to Dalia, she did indeed look sad, Oh no I've done it again with this cursed attitude! He though frantically. This sudden frankness was shown in his wind as it speed up and swept erratically around behind them. "HHH Hey Daley, you don't suppose you could make me a rose to, eh To attract the ladies do you?" He asked suddenly with a smooth smile on his face. Such was his personality, Zander the ladykiller. Being locked up for as long as he was caused him to be very romantic and lecherous towards the opposite sex." I have seen your flower for Éclair and kinda felt a little left out!" He said his smile turning into a dramatic sad face. His bottom lip jutted out and curled down, his eyes big and does, his eyebrows knitted together and his head tilted to the side as he looked her way. It was meet to look rather ridiculous so she would smile at him instead of be sad like she was. "Please make Andy a flower!?" He asked in a childish voice with that same face.Éclair took a deep breath before looking back to Jenti as he spoke. It was a little frightening to hear that he didn't know who could be watching. Knowing this caused her to look around her to see if it were possible to see anyone around. Fortunatly no one was around, but it did bring up a other question. "You're being fallowed too then?" She more commented than asked."so it is our fate to be hunted"She added with a small and sad sigh." That is why we have to find our own safe haven, someplace where people will just love us alone, and where we can live peacefully!" She stated that fire reappearing with in her as she spoke." I don't want to live in fear anymore, I don't want you, or wander, or Dale, or any one else who is like us to live in constant fear!"Éclair stated as she clenched her fists around the reigns.------------------Danial walked happily now, feeling he may have won this little spat, and it showed in his stride. Each step had a little bounce to it and he song his arms rather carefree." I can't wait to find Sis again." He SIAD after a few minutes of silence." Maybe if i don't get all sad she'll come with us!" He said a small laugh coming from him." We almost had her this last time, "He gave a small laugh before stopping and looking straight ahead. "Zander ruins it again..... Why don't you take care of him first this time, and ill talk to sis one on one!" Danial stated as he slowed his stride to match that of Fernand. He didn't say much after that not for at least five minus. "Theirs a village aged, maybe we can get you that Horse and a busty lady you want so badly!" Danial said and looked up at the man with a wide grin non his face. "Or maybe they will be rolled into one!" he added with a laugh! Dale looked up while he spoke and her face slowly turned from sad to confused and worried." Are...you alright?" She held her hand out and gently touched his forehead. She wanted to know if his temperature had gone up. He was a little warm, but his behavior was odd, even for him. Jenti tensed when her mood changed yet again. He knew it was his fault. "Do not let my paranoia fifteen you. We know your brother and one other male are after you, for reasons I do not know, and I'll not pry." He shook his head." My basis for paranoia is much worse than yours, believe me. But please don't let me anger or frighten you." He then smiled gently." I think Dale has a kind heart, and she does what she can. I would like to try out her plan, even if it fails, it'll be a nice experience."-----------------Fernand just walked with him silently. He'd listened without giving a response to Danial's quits and jabs. He was being his usual childish self, and would not condone or encourage the behavior. Though towards the end of his speaking, Fernand grinned slightly." Ah, how I wish I could have both." Zander leaned back into his seat as Dale asked if he was ok and touched his head. It seemed baby talk was lost on her, that was ok because Zander didn't really like talking like that. "S-Sorry I'm fine!"he said with a little cough." I thought talking like that might cheer you up, that's the last time I use Éclair tactics on anyone!" he said with a little grunt. "But I would like a flower, You seem the happiest when you're creating wonders of the earth!" He said with a grin.Éclair gave a small smile to what Jenti said, she too would like to try the plan even if it failed miserably at least they tried." I will fight to try and keep things happy for all of us!" Éclair said her smile widening a little as she spoke." And i won't let anyone hut any of us!" She added with a small giggle. She moved her horse closer to Jenti's and couldn't help but reach out to his hood. The hidden red hair was just a little too tempting for her. She had never seen hair quite like it and was intrigued as to what the rest of it looked like as well as what it felt like. She stopped herself from grasping his hood and pulled her hand back a little." Do you mind if I look at your hair?" She asked now a little shy and afraid that he would react harshly as she was being quite forward and rude with her actions.---------------------------Danial gave a smile to Fernand as he complained about wanting a woman and a horse." Well if it will shut you up I guess we could find you a lady!" Danial stated as he balanced himself on a round and wobbly rock." Though with an attitude like you have I don't think anyone would go for you!"he added before falling off of the rack and onto his feet."let's go before they all go and hid on you!" Danial stated and continued on with a laugh. Dale blinked at him, then smiled. She was glad that he was not sick. Then she couldn't help but chuckle softly." You act like that to cheer up Éclair? Hmm... I can see that working." Then she tilted her head and wondered why he would like to see her grow more flowers, just to make her smile. That can't be why he wanted her to do it. She shrugged slightly, then grinned a little." What sort of flower would you like?" Jenti seemed to smile a little from her words. She really looked like she was into the idea. He liked her determination, it was a bit of character that he'd been deprived of when he was younger. He tensed when she suddenly came closer. Furthermore, he stared at him warily, then saw her shrink back from his hood. Furthermore, he sighed softly, then nodded a little." You may see it, once we're under some sort of cover. Alright? Just not out in the open. It acts as a beaten."-------------Fernand chuckled, then looked insulted. What woman would want a spoiled, insane child such as Danial? Nobody but his mother, if he even had one anymore. He knew nothing of his parents, but every time Fernand had brought it up, Danial would speak of the King like he was his father. Zander smiled weakly as he was quite embarrassed and didn't know what to do. Though once asked what kind of flower he would like, Zander had to think for a moment." Why don't you pick?" He said with a charming smile. "I like surprises, most of the time, and I think if you pick one for me, it would be much more magnificent than any flower I could think up!" He said a small chuckle escaping him as he leaned to the side to glimpse the flower Éclair had. It was indeed very beautiful and fitted his companion very much." You know I think you have a talent for seeing what we do not see in ourselves!" Zander said as he leaned back and heaved a deep sigh." Without knowing éclair you seemed to pick out her essence and put it into a flower!" A smile played on Zander's face as he spoke and then turned to Dale." You are indeed one of a kind miss Dale!"Éclair gave a wide smile, as she heard Jenti say she could see his strange colored hair when they were undercover. She became increasingly excited as she couldn't help but imagine what it all looked like. So she started looking for some kind of natural cover, as she knew she and Zander couldn't afford a place to stay in any towns. With a small sigh Éclair looked down at her flower. Seeing it lifted her spirits a little, but it didn't help find a place to stay for the night. Becoming increasingly agitated Éclair gave a groan and slumped forward on her horse." Is this just all flat lands!?" She groaned as she looked up through narrowed eyes." Theirs nothing but dirt and rocks, and more dirt and OH another rock!" She grumbled again as she still scanned the area for a Plato or even a mountain.---------------------Danial smiled widely as he tromped forward and into the small town. It was a quanta little place well out of the way and somewhat secluded from anything and everything." Come one Fernand, Let's find you a lady!" Danial stated as he grabbed his friends arm and led him to the nearest pub." Hello, are their any lovely ladies here who want to meet my friend?" Danial shouted loudly once inside the pub. Everything seemed to stop once Danial nearly shouted, but slowly came back to life as he looked around for an empty seat for himself and Fernand." Don't worry I'm sure someone will step up!" Danial said with a laugh as he leaned back in his char then further leaned so he was balancing on two legs.(sorry for the absence school is winding down and I haven't had the time to think about much other than school and finding a new job!)

Collision of Elements|rating:3.0

The School Under the Sun and Moon ~O_A~

Welcome to the school that lies under the Sun and Moon Finally...the children of the sun and moon as made it home Markus Reece made this school years ago when he fought out that he could control powers under the sun and moon. He made this school for the special children who had magical abilities under the sun and moon. So they can stop being teased for being special, so they can stop hiding, so they finally have control over their powers. So they can live a happy life with no fear. ☀ The School Under the Sun and Moon ☾ Dear Student, It is our pleasure to welcome you to this school. As you know, we pride ourselves in creating the finest of students. But, what you might not have known is that we specialize in creating two types of students. The students of the sun and the students of the moon. Upon your arrival you will be sorted into the proper house. Come with your best attitude and be prepared for a fun-filled school year. We wait your arrival. Your Headmaster, ♏ℜ Rules 1. Follow all rules Men and ours 2. This is a Lit RP forum, please post a paragraph or more. It's ok to write a couple of sentences if you can't think of anything but don't do it all the time. 3. Pm Profiles to either me or Waving 4. NO GOD MODDING!!! 5. No one else can control the Sun and Moon but Markus 6. Your character will have a mark on them when their powers start working. It would either be a sun or moon. It should show up right after they receive the letter. 7. Fighting is allowed, but please make sure you have talked to the person that you want to fight and then come talk to me or Waving. 8. Keep it PG-13. 9. You can have up to 3 characters, so it would be easy on everyone. 10. You can be human, vampire, werewolf, angel, etc. But don't go overboard please. 11. If you have any questions then post in the IOC thread or pm me or Waving. 12. Oh, yes I forgot one thing, this school is from 5th grade to College. So make your character's age somewhere between there. Staff doesn't count. 13. If your staff please include in your profile if you're Sun or Moon. Staff Quote: Originally Posted by Waving HTML Code: [RIGHT]put URL of character image here[/RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]why hello there; my name is. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put name here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"], but please call me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put nickname here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]this month and date are important. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put birthday month and day here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]and they make me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put age here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]believe it or not, but I do this for a living. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put job here[/COLOR][/SIZE][INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]I might not look like much, but I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put height here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]sticks and stones can't break these bones. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put weight here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]these babes will haunt you forever. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put eye color here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]and you'll get lost in my. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put hair color here[/COLOR][/SIZE][/INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]my past is what drives me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out past[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]put my personality is everything. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out personality[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]as are my likes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out likes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]and even my dislikes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out dislikes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]this is just a little extra. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]share something special about your character[/COLOR][/SIZE] [LEFT] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]guess what mommy, I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put sexuality here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]oh and didn't you, I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put gender here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]shhh, don't tell, but I have. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list tattoos or piercings here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]oh and did I mention I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put species here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]it's sweet and all because I can do this. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list powers[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]but I got to watch out for these. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list weaknesses[/COLOR][/SIZE] [RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Indigo"]give a round of applause to the wonderful. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]your Kenosha username[/COLOR][/SIZE][/RIGHT] [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Markus Reece but please call me. . . Markthis month and date are important. . . December 30, 1982and they make me. . .28believe it or not, but I do this for a living. . . Dean of the schools might not look like much, but I am. . . 6'1 sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 200 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Light Brown and you'll get lost in my. . . Dark Brown my past is what drives me. . . When Markus was a kid, he would always be up from the time the sun rose, and he would fall asleep once the moon broke the surface. He thought it was weird at first, but he got used to it. He always had a connection to the Sun and the Moon. And then one day he was playing out in the field since his family used to own a farm, and he made fire in his hands. He screamed and then almost burned the field down. His parents kept him from outside by locking him up in the basement. There was a small window in there to let in little sunlight. He sat by that window for hours. And that same night he fought out that he had powers of the moon. For the rest of his life he practiced and practiced so he was able to control his powers. And then one day, he was in his early twenties he thought what if there were more people who were just like him? He wanted to him help them. So that's why he made "The School that lays under the Sun and Moon"put my personality is everything. . . Demanding at sometimes, loving, caring, he sets to his mind to anything and everything. As are my likes. . . Anything involving the Sun and Moon, Eclipse sand even my dislikes. . . People who try to hurt the people that he loves and people who are just like him. This is just a little extra. . . He can control both Sun and Moon[LEFT] what mommy, I am. . ._______Straight____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . ._______Male____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . ._______Mark of the sun and moon on his wrist____oh and did I mention I'm a. . ._______Human____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . ._______Anything involving the Sun and Moon____, but I got to watch out for these. . ._______None give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . DarkAngel562415 Quote: Originally Posted by Gandhi_k [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Kellie Rodrick, but please call me. . . 'Key' this month and date are important. . . June 8, 1985, and they make me. . . 25 believe it or not, but I do this for a living. . . History Teacher might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'8" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 120 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Lilac and you'll get lost in my. . . Whitemy past is what drives me. . . I was born into a impoverished family. I was the youngest of seven children. My mother and father were overwhelmed by us. My mother was always under the influence and my father was never there. We took care of ourselves. My older siblings were in and out of the house very often and most of my childhood is obscure blur. When I sleep I get flashes of my younger life. One thing that always comes clearly, the night my mother sold me to get her fix. I remember that night as clear as day. Mainly because I often slept during the day. I remember my oldest brother, Johnny, mentioning me being nocturnal. Anyway, I was 8 when I was dragged out of my bed by my mother. After being sold things begin to blur again. Then I remember night when I sent the people around me screaming in fear. I was alone until my eighteenth birthday. The events of that night are also shrouded in mystery. Despite my strange powers I spent the rest of my life trying to be normal. While I was in college an ex of mine kindly asked about the tattoo on my left shoulder blade that I never knew about. After graduating I searched it and found this school. I am an of the Moon, and that explains my odd ability to manipulate the shadows. Put my personality is everything. . . I am a semi quiet person. I try to keep to myself as much as possible. Even at 25 I am now learning how to control my powers, so I am very afraid of hurting those around me. As are my likes. . . I like to cook. It calms me. Especially baking. I also like to read before I fall asleep. And even my dislikes. . . Complete darkness or too much light. Too many lights hurts me and total darkness weakens and terrifies me. This is just a little extra. . . I don't have much to share. I don't have special talents. Aside from my shadow manipulation. Quote: Originally Posted by Waving Quote: [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______1 tattoo, 3 piercings ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______human ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______Shadow Puppeteer ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Total Darkness. Bright Lights. Give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Gandhi_k Quote: Originally Posted by LilMissMollyPutz [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Joseph, but please call me. . . Ref this month and date are important. . . January 1 and they make me. . . 31 believe it or not, but I do this for a living. . . Music Teacher/Band Director might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'7" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 150 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Ice Grey and you'll get lost in my. . . Blondemy past is what drives me. . . Up until his teens he was almost always singing and trying to find new tunes, which often got him into trouble once he got to school. Seeing his musical urges his parents, desperate to fix his school problems, gave him a violin, which he picked up very easily, when he turned thirteen. After seeing how fast he learned to play the new device they started giving him more instruments, cello, flute, baritone, trumpet, percussion, and a guitar. He only ever had trouble with guitar, and still does have the same single issues. He looked multiple colleges, but none of them seemed fit for what he wanted to do. Until he turned 30 he was left alone in an apartment building, playing piano to keep the rent and pay for food. Once he turned 30 he was given an invitation to teach at a school he'd never heard of before. Accepting the offer to be a music teacher he moved to the school to work. But my personality is everything. . . He's a bright and cheerful person with a long good temper, but don't try to get on his bad side. He seems to be followed by music, especially when he feels any strong emotions. The surrounding air always seems to be calm and soft. As are my likes. . . The moon, water, music, shiny things, and color and even my dislikes. . . Sun, bright lights, emptiness, sour notes, and anything that's dull and bland. This is just a little extra. . . He's typically a fun teacher and always seems to be in love with his students, who don't know he's bi, but isn't actually attracted to them. He's able to play any and every instrument he comes into contact with, except the guitar. Quote: Originally Posted by LilMissMollyPutz [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Bi ____oh and didn't you know, I'm a. . . _______male ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______a sun tattoo on my upper left arm along with snake bites or angel bites, depending on the day. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Music Fairy ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______shrink, fly, and create music from anything, even air. ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______The new moon, super bright lights, and fire. Give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . LilMissMollyPutz Sun Students Quote: Originally Posted by Waving HTML Code: [RIGHT]put URL of character image here[/RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]why hello there; my name is. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put name here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"], but please call me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put nickname here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]this month and date are important. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put birthday month and day here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]and they make me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put age here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]which means I am a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put year level here[/COLOR][/SIZE][INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]I might not look like much, but I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put height here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]sticks and stones can't break these bones. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put weight here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]these babes will haunt you forever. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put eye color here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]and you'll get lost in my. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put hair color here[/COLOR][/SIZE][/INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]my past is what drives me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out past[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]put my personality is everything. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out personality[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]as are my likes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out likes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]and even my dislikes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out dislikes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]this is just a little extra. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]share something special about your character[/COLOR][/SIZE] [LEFT] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]guess what mommy, I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put sexuality here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]oh and didn't you, I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put gender here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]shhh, don't tell, but I have. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list tattoos or piercings here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]oh and did I mention I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put species here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]it's sweet and all because I can do this. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list powers[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]but I got to watch out for these. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list weaknesses[/COLOR][/SIZE] [RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Red"]give a round of applause to the wonderful. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]your Kenosha username[/COLOR][/SIZE][/RIGHT] Quote: Originally Posted by finx15 [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Fine Sankara, but please call me. . . Fine this month and date are important. . . 10/04 and they make me. . . 16 which means I am a. . . Junior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5 Ft 2 in. sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 120 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Purple and you'll get lost in my. . . Blueish purple my past is what drives me. . . I was made fun of a lot in my old schools mainly because of the color of my eyes. I lived with my mom, dad, and older brother int a small house in a forest just so we could stay out of sight as much as possible. When my parents found out about this school they couldn't wait to get rid of us. I mean send us there with the hopes of keeping us safe. Of course My brother got to go first being a year behind him, I had to wait. Put my personality is everything. . . I am told that I am very kind. If you ask my brother though I'm just annoying. I am also shy around people I don't know. As are my likes. . . I like cats of all shapes and sizes. I like to read everything but romance. Furthermore, I like boys but have never had a boyfriend. And even my dislikes. . . I hate yelling it makes my throat soar. I hate bullies they made my life miserable. Furthermore, I hate to be told that I can't do something. This is just a little extra. . . I don't think I have anything special to share. [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______black star on my left shoulder ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Cat demon ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______Read minds It's not as good as people think it is. ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Blank thought they can kill you give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . finx15 Quote: Originally Posted by Lions [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Serendipity Calvert, but please call me. . . Ren this month and date are important. . . June 19th here and they make me. . . 17 which means I am a. . . Junior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'7" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 150 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Green and you'll get lost in my. . . Dark Brown my past is what drives me. . . My mother died when I was 3. It was a normal thing, just a car accident. It was her fault, she pulled out in front of someone who was driving something a lot bigger than our car. I wasn't there, thank goodness, and her death was instant. My father went into a spiraling depression for a year or two, but when he started going to therapy, it really helped him out. He even started dating again, but hasn't been able to keep onto a long term girlfriend. I don't remember my mother, only from pictures. But my dad raised me just fine. Put my personality is everything. . . I'm a bit of a tomboy because of being raised by my father. I don't like dresses and would never be caught dead in a skirt of any kind. Furthermore, I don't do a lot of talking, but I'm not shy either. Furthermore, I'm brutally honest, and will tell you the truth (as long as you ask first) even if it's going to hurt your feelings. Furthermore, I don't do gossiping bull crap. As are my likes. . . Tank tops, sandals, hot weather, rock music and even my dislikes. . . Milk products (sadly I'm lactose intolerant), animal abuse and bigots this is just a little extra. . . I'm not an animal rights activist by no means, I still wear leather. [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______My tongue pierced. When I change into my animal form it's still there. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Shape Shifter ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______It's sweet and all because I can do this: I can make minor changes to my physical appearance, such as hair color/length or eye color. Or, I can change full into an any animal. ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Turning into a full animal takes me a lot of energy, so once I change back into a human I'll need a huge nap. Thankfully, the exhaustion from turning into an animal doesn't hit me until I'm human again. I also can't just say *poof* I'm an animal. I have to be near the animal I want to change into, or looking at a picture of it. Give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Lions Quote: Originally Posted by Rachel Silver fire [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Cecily P. Award, but please call me. . . Cecily or Messy this month and date are important. . . November 10 and they make me. . . 18 which means I am a. . . Senior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'6" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 145 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Warm Cinnamon and you'll get lost in my. . . Chocolate Brown my past is what drives me. . . From an early age, Cecily has been a constant tinkerer. She took apart her father's power drill at the age of 3 and her mom's coffee maker at the age of 8. As she grew older she began to realize that she could see the schematics of gadgets in her mind's eye. She began building contraptions with functions only she understood. At the age of 17 she was walking home from school when two men in a black van stopped beside her and pulled her into the back seat and began to drive away. Naturally, she screamed. But that was where normalcy ended. When she screamed the gags on the car went crazy. The engine overheated, the brakes failed, and the car careened off the road into a pole. The machine was totaled to the point that no ordinary person could have possibly survived. But when the EMTs extinguished the fire and were able to cut away the twisted metal, they found Cecily curled up in a miraculously untouched pocket of debris. This was the beginning of her awakening. Not long afterward, near her 18th Birthday, she received a strange letter offering her a spot at The School. But my personality is everything. . . Friendly, if a little strange. She enjoys the company of machines and will always have at least one gadget on her at all times. She is a bit obsessed with "improving" preexisting gadgets, which often involves taking them apart and then reassembling them in some almost unrecognizable fashion. This wouldn't always be a problem, but sometimes she gets so excited that she forgets to ask the original owner if they actually want it improved. She often gets so engrossed in her current project that she neglects other things, like eating or going to class. Other humanoids sometimes confuse her, making her kinda awkward in social situations. As are my likes. . . GADGETS!!! Also reading, drawing schematics and diagrams, and animals (they act far more logically than humans) and even my dislikes. . . Being put on the spot or finding herself at the center of attention. She gets nervous around anyone she's remotely attracted to and blushes easily. This is just a little extra. . . Inside the locket she wears is a tiny copper rose given to her by her father the day she left for school [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight (mostly) ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______5 rings in my left ear, 3 in my right, a diamond stud in my nose, and interlocking gears and cogs down my back. My sun appeared on the palm of my left hand. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Human ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______Manipulate machinery, work metal with ease, "improve" preexisting gadgets. ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Freezing temperatures. They make my hands stiffen up, and my brain goes fuzzy. I always have to bundle as soon as it drops below 60F. Give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Rachel Silver fire Quote: Originally Posted by puppetmaster999 [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Skylar Gino, but please call me. . . Skylar this month and date are important. . . 12/23 and they make me. . . 16 which means I am a. . . Junior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'9" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 165 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Gold and you'll get lost in my. . . Gray-Black Mix my past is what drives me. . . I was born to a mother who couldn't keep him. I was put into a foster home very young. Furthermore, I lived with a family of gymnast for a long time and thus gained a love for parkour, or rerunning. I common free ran to school and found it quite easy. Furthermore, I could jump further and run faster than normal. This was all right with I. I naturally had a lot of friends, but never became attached to anyone. Something was missing, like a second half of me somewhere else. Put my personality is everything. . . Outgoing, Happy, thoughtful, intelligent. As are my likes. . . Parkour, gymnastics, dancing (especially anything with flips and spins {i.e. breakdancing}) and even my dislikes. . . Lazy people, People who think their better the everyone else this is just a little extra. . . I can force my emotions onto others [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Guy ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______Lord markings on my left arm, Sun on my upper left arm. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Dreamer (opposite and companion species to nightmares) Although I don't know OT yet ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______fire, improved reflexes, speed, long jumping ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Strong willed people give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Puppetmater999 Moon Students Quote: Originally Posted by Waving HTML Code: [RIGHT]put URL of character image here[/RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]why hello there; my name is. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put name here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"], but please call me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put nickname here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]this month and date are important. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put birthday month and day here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]and they make me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put age here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]which means I am a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put year level here[/COLOR][/SIZE][INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]I might not look like much, but I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put height here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]sticks and stones can't break these bones. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put weight here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]these babes will haunt you forever. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put eye color here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]and you'll get lost in my. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put hair color here[/COLOR][/SIZE][/INDENT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]my past is what drives me. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out past[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]put my personality is everything. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out personality[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]as are my likes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out likes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]and even my dislikes. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]write out dislikes[/COLOR][/SIZE] [FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]this is just a little extra. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]share something special about your character[/COLOR][/SIZE] [LEFT] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]guess what mommy, I am. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put sexuality here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]oh and didn't you, I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put gender here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]shhh, don't tell, but I have. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list tattoos or piercings here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]oh and did I mention I'm a. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]put species here[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]it's sweet and all because I can do this. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list powers[/COLOR][/SIZE] [COLOR="White"]____[/COLOR][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]but I got to watch out for these. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [COLOR="White"]_______[/COLOR][SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]list weaknesses[/COLOR][/SIZE] [RIGHT][FONT="Lucia Console"][COLOR="Navy"]give a round of applause to the wonderful. . .[/COLOR][/FONT] [SIZE="1"][COLOR="Black"]your Kenosha username[/COLOR][/SIZE][/RIGHT] Quote: Originally Posted by finx15 [RIGHT] why hello there; my name is. . . Caliber Sankara, but please call me. . . Cal this month and date are important. . . 02/14 and they make me. . . 18 which means I am a. . . SeniorI might not look like much, but I am. . . 5Ft 10in sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 210 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Blue and you'll get lost in my. . . Purple Jeremy past is what drives me. . . I lived with my mother, father and little sister in a small house in the woods. I of course was made fun of when I was still in human school. The reason mainly why I changed schools isn't because I feared humans they feared me. I got into a fight the year before I changed schools with 10 other boys I killed 5 of them and let the other go crying home to mommy bad idea. My sister is the only thing now that matters to me, she is me life. Put my personality is everything. . . I have more of a hostile personality I tend to punch first and ask later. My sister has said I have a sweet personality when I'm around but that's only because she's my sis. As are my likes. . . I don't real like anything. I don't have much interest in girls except my sis. And even my dislikes. . . How can I list all the things I dislike? Let's put it this way if your not Fine I dislike you. This is just a little extra. . . I am not actually Finds brother I was adopted when I was 2. [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Male ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______A black flames on my right arm. Also, I have an earring. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Neo or cat demon ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______fight like a tiger. None yet has beat me or lived for that matter. ____but I got to watch out for these. . . _______My sister give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . finx15 Quote: Originally Posted by VampHunterX13666 [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Angeles Cor vinous, but please call me. . . Angel this month and date are important. . . 06/06/66 and they make me. . . 19 as long as I can remember which means I am a. . . Senior might not look like much, but I am. . . 6'1 sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 180 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Bloody Red and you'll get lost in my. . . Silvery Whitey past is what drives me. . . I was born during World War 2, I had to watch my parents get killed then kill Nazi soldiers at 6 yrs old, that affected me. I was turned in the year of 1966, and left in a factory, I've been spending time at friends houses, and in the woods. Furthermore, I have a special ability that allows me to do extraordinary things when I'm in life and death situations. Furthermore, I feed on animals that are overpopulated in the area I'm in, and I like to practice with bladed weapons, it has taught me great discipline and control. Furthermore, I have been haunted by that one clear human memory, and will forever be. Put my personality is everything. . . Despite my past, I am caring, kind, and a loyal, friend, ally, etc., I do have my bad days too, but I know what not to do then. As are my likes. . . Write out likes and even my dislikes. . . I hate people who hurt others, especially my loved ones and friends This is just a little extra... I'm easily amazed if you catch me at the right moment. This is just a little extra. . . Share something special about your character [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Male ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______A black full moon on the back of my neck. ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Vampire ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______I have the perks of bing a vampire as well as being able to control the elements when my life is in serious danger But I got to watch out for these... ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______Things that amuse me when in fights, and wolves, they weaken my abilities give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . VampHunterX13666 Quote: Originally Posted by Syraannabelle [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Colette Anne Riel, but please call me. . . Colette this month and date are important. . . 07/20 and they make me. . . 18 which means I am a. . . Senior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5' 4" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 125 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Amber waves and you'll get lost in my. . . Red locks my past is what drives me. . . I was really popular at my old school, even though I never really felt right there. My parents always believed that there had to be something better so when they found this school they had no hesitations about taking me away from what I had known and dropping me in a new environment alone. But I will make the most of it. But my personality is everything. . . I'm a sweetheart. An optimist that looks on the bright side of life. Although I do have a really, really bad temper. I'm easily frustrated and when I get mad, bad things happen. As are my likes. . . I love to sing and dance. Cooking is fun. I love dogs, especially borzoi's, and the moon. I love being outside at night. And even my dislikes. . . Mornings. I hate mornings. I'm also not a fan of cats or being stuck in one place for long periods of time. This is just a little extra. . . When I get mad, my eyes turn red [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _____ Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______two piercings on the tops of my ears, to piercings on my lobes and my belly button pierced ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______nymph ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . ______have sparkling fierce wings that come out of my back, so I can fly ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______gold. It will kill me [RIGHT]give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Syraannabelle Quote: Originally Posted by princessofdarkness101 [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Lightning Marie, but please call me. . . \Light this month and date are important. . . 4/10 and they make me. . . 17 which means I am a. . . Junior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'3 sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 110 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Gold and you'll get lost in my. . . Pinkmy past is what drives me. . . Lighting comes from a mixed family. Her father was known as a creature of the night. He disappeared when Lightning was 5. Her mother is a human. She grew up with her mother, but she passed away a few years back from a freak accident. Put my personality is everything. . . She is very quiet but very sweet. She likes being around small crowds. Furthermore, she is known to be very sweet and quiet as are my likes. . . Late night walks, singing, and camping and even my dislikes. . . Fighting, wolves, and weakness this is just a little extra. . . She shares many traits of a vampire, but she is mostly human [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______female ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______a crescent moon on my arm ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______human.vampire ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______I can sense emotions and thoughts ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______water, and light give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Princessofdarkness Quote: Originally Posted by xMusicNotes [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . You LY, but please call me. . . BYU this month and date are important. . . March 24th and they make me. . . 17 which means I am a. . . Junior,11thI might not look like much, but I am. . . 5''8 sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 150 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Gold/Hazel and you'll get lost in my. . . Grayish Teal my past is what drives me. . . You was abandoned by his vampire father once His human mother gave birth to him, His mother really cares for You, especially since he's half vampire. You takes care and protects his mother. Since that's the only family he has left. You had a younger brother, but he passed away in a car accident which he blames himself for. Though His mother had some hesitations on You attending this school, She gladly let him put my personality is everything. . . He is usually outgoing with new people and friends, and tries to look at negative situations positively(which sometimes work). He's very Sweet, kind, and a true friend and very curious. As are my likes. . . Sitting out and watching the moon, Outdoors, Music, Lollipops, When it's night, helping, And amazingly. Cooking and even my dislikes. . . Bullies, Being woken up, occasionally tries to stop fights(unless he's the one in it), unable to help this is just a little extra. . . His eye color switches between gold (normal, Happy), red (Angry/hungry), and blue (Calm/Sleepy/bored) depending on his mood. You also doesn't have the regular normal vampire abilities [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______Straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______Male ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______Crescent moon on my wrist with a little star beside it ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Half Vampire ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______Able to Freeze liquids/some items, sense a person's emotion(if he wants) ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______my Curiosity it sometimes gets me in trouble. Give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . xMusicnotes Quote: Originally Posted by puppetmaster999 [RIGHT] hello there; my name is. . . Alex Kane, but please call me. . . Lix this month and date are important. . . 12/23 and they make me. . . 16 which means I am a. . . Junior might not look like much, but I am. . . 5'10" sticks and stones can't break these bones. . . 170 these babes will haunt you forever. . . Black and you'll get lost in my. . . Silver-Gray-White Mix my past is what drives me. . . All Alex knows is that he was born on the winter solstice, the darkest day of the year. HE knew his name because of the tag his mother had left with him. He has lived in a string of foster homes and orphanages until he was fifteen, when he became an independent, via appeal. He didn't attend school because he had to work. Furthermore, he wasn't dumb though. Furthermore, he knew a lot but found that a got older normal food could sustain him. Furthermore, he suddenly started to enter people's dream in his sleep and fed off of the fear, if it was a nightmare, or happiness if it was a dream. This reversed the polarity of the dream, nightmares become dreams and dreams become nightmares. Put my personality is everything. . . Punk, Tough, Kind, intelligent, not to be underestimated. As are my likes. . . Reading, fighting, walking by moonlight and even my dislikes. . . Bing underestimated, guys who think they're God's gift to womankind, and vice versa. This is just a little extra. . . Feeds off of the emotions of others [LEFT] ____guess what mommy, I am. . . _______straight ____oh and didn't you, I'm a. . . _______male ____shhh, don't tell, but I have. . . _______Odd markings on my right arm. Moon symbols on my right palm, parallel to the circle of the mark on my arm ____oh and did I mention I'm a. . . _______Nightmare ____it's sweet and all because I can do this. . . _______Control shadows and force emotions onto people. Also, the marks on his right arm form an Arcane weapon (eventually) ____, but I got to watch out for these. . . _______strong-willed humans-they can stop me from feeding off their dreams give a round of applause to the wonderful. . . Puppetmaster999 Uniforms Sun Class is Black Moon Class is White, but the red is indigo Staff is Gray. If you have read with gray you're Sun. Gray and Indigo is Moon Girls have a choice between pencil skirts or pants. During the winter, if the girls still want to wear skirts, they must wear black or white stockings (depends on if they're sun or moon). Hit Listed List Black List White List Important Noose are now OPEN :D ((yay!. Are we starting at the school or at are homes?)) ((At home they just got the letters)) ---------- Sitting at his desk, Markus looks out of the giant window that was in his office looking out into the lake that they were by. Smiling he looks at the letters that were on his desk. They were ready to be sent out. Standing up she brushes a small strand of hair out of his eyes and grabs all the letters. He goes down into the mail room. But it wasn't like a mail room that you would see in the human world. It was a magical mail room, it could send anything in a blink of an eye. Loading the letters into a machine in the center of the room, he presses a button and then disappear. In their search to find the children of the Sun and Moon. Colette slowly awoke, the sunlight filtering through her bedroom window. With a groan and a curse, she threw her pillow at the window. "STUPID MORNING!" she growled through bleary eyes. Reaching up to pull the heavy velvet curtains closed, Colette got up and got dressed in a simple deep blue tank top and jeans. Pulling her hair into a messy bun she made her way downstairs for breakfast. "Good Morning Colette" "Nothin' good about it mom...." She yawned getting a glass of juice. "Ehh, why do I have to be awake during the day anyway?" "Colette..." her mother warned waving a letter. "Mom what do you have in your hand?" "Oh! Your father and I were doing some research for a new school for you. I don't recall sending anything out, but you got a letter from a 'School Under the Sun and Moon'. Sounds mysterious... Sounds Prestigious! Sounds just right!" Colette sighed and read the letter. She couldn't deny her intrigue. It did sound mysterious... But was that really worth leaving everything... Not that her parents would give her the choice. "Well Colette?" "Sounds great mom. I can't wait." Colette slipped on the fake smile she reserved for her parents. That sweet, innocent, obedient smile that she had been using for years to agree with anything her parents wanted her to do. Heading up to her room she lifted her pant leg to see what had been bothering her ankle while she was reading the letter. Corvettes eyes widened in shock as she saw an odd moon tattoo on the outside of her ankle. "That wasn't there before..." she murmured worried. ((sorry! I totally forgot while I was typing up the post! ^.^')) ((Please read rule number 6)) Fine heard noise downstairs and hurried down them. "What's wrong brother?" Her older brother was holding something in his hands. "We can go to a different school now Fine." He said with a smile on his face a very rare sight. "What are you talking about?" She asked. "We have been invited to go to the school under the sun and moon." He hands her hers. She examined it and then opened it. "I've been exerted to the sun." She felt this hot felling on her arm and looked to see that her star tattoo was now a sun. Her brother frowned "Well I've been exerted to the moon part of the school." He observed after opening his letter. His frowned deepened, and he pulled up his sleeve showing that a moon had appeared atop the flames on his arm.((How's that?)) ((It tells you that when the student receives the letter, the mark of a sun or moon will show up somewhere)) (did I do good with mine?)) (Very nice) (yay!) Going back into his office, Markus sits down at his desk looking out the great window looking out towards the lake. "Now we wait" he says softly smiling. They shall arrive at the lunar eclipse, which was also his birthday and 2 days away. Getting up once more he walks threw the school halls. He looks at the classrooms for the Sun students and then the Moon. He was excited. This was the first year that the school would be opening and hopefully that they could come back the next year. Walking outside he goes to the dorm rooms. The sun building had a sun symbol hanging above the door. The moon building had a moon. Smiling he walks into the sun doom standing in the middle of the building. There were two staircases. Girls on the left, boys on the right. This was the same with the moon. Walking into the boys' hall, the uniforms where folded neatly on their beds with their books on their desks. It was the same as in the moon building.(Oh fine 15, could you use different colors to show who's talking? I kinda got confused.) Ren was sleeping, the sun barely peeking over the horizon. She was usually a morning person, but the sound of her dog, Anubis, going crazy is what brought her out of her slumber today. She woke up slowly, blinking back the sun that was pouring through her white, lacy curtains. Her dog was still going insane, scratching at the door and having a fit. She groaned, threw back her embarrassingly girly bedspread and opened the door for him." Bloody dog..." She mused, stretching her muscles slowly. Walking down the hallway, she heard snores coming from her fathers room. He had work in two hours, and was probably trying to get the last bit of forty winks before heading into the daily grind. Ren got out the supplies to make him his lunch. She didn't do it every day, but she tried to do it once or twice a week. After a fairly decent but simple lunch of a bologna sandwich and an apple was shoved away in a plain brown paper bag, she made a b-line for the bathroom, doing her morning ritual of washing her face, brushing her teeth, and getting changed. She threw on a white tank-top, simple black pants and a pair of sandals. She usually did her morning jog, but today she didn't feel like it. However, she didn't want to be cooped up in the house, so she donned a pair of shades, and opened the front door, promptly stepping on the mail. She groaned and bent over, picking it up gingerly. Thankfully her shoes had been fairly clean, so no obnoxious print on the mail today. The mail only had one letter, addressed to her. She was slightly confused, she was pretty sure that the mail didn't come until at least noon, but she shrugged and opened it up. Her eyes darted back and forth quickly, re-reading the letter twice over before furrowing her brow. It sounded nifty and all, but just too good to be true. Her father probably sent away for it, he always knew how much she hated regular school. Nodding to herself, she was resolved to go, as long as it wasn't some joke or hoax. As she was folding the letter she noticed a sun tattoo emblazoned on the inside of her left wrist. She scratched at it, as it was itching like nobodies business and sighed dramatically. Her dog now padded back into the room, wagging its tale with its tongue lolling out." Guess I'm going to a new school"She said, trying to hold her excitement back. ((Hello I would like to join, but I am confused on the profiles that need to be sent to u. Can someone please explain.)) (Well which one do you want to be? Sun, Moon, or Staff?) ((moon)) (Ok then you follow the profile layout that is listed under the moon students) Angel had just gotten to the school after reading the letter that came to his cabin, he lives by himself, less pain that way he found. He was delighted to finally be able to meet people as different as him, most of the reason he did want to come here. He found the school to be quite elegant, nice architecture, and amazing affect to it, he thought. Furthermore, he knew he would like it here, and would try his best not to get into trouble here, his other school he was kicked out of a couple of days before, for him fighting too much, but he didn't get picked on by the same people twice that was for sure. Kellie looked around at her messy apartment. Boxes were piled mile high with things that she felt she didn't need anymore. She was trying to pack as lightly as she could. She was not sure how big her new room would be, and she didn't want to have all this unnecessary stuff with her. Furthermore, she capped her marker after she named her last box. Most of it was heading to a thrift store. Some of her old clothes were heading to charity." When did I accumulate all of this crap?" Key sighed and walked around her apartment for what would be the last time. A soft smile appeared on her face and she ran her hand along her window. She looked down on the city, she had a beautiful view of the metropolis. She watched as tiny dots hurried along the sidewalk and speeding cars whizzed by. Furthermore, she would miss all the business of this place. Furthermore, she was sure the school she was heading to would be in a less populated area, but she wasn't too sure." I'll miss this crap hole. That's for sure." As soon as Colette was in her room, her parents were there telling her to pack. She didn't tell them about the moon on her ankle. It freaked her out a bit. She barely had time to pack her belongings before her parents were rushing her out the door. "But Mom! What about my friends?" "Colette! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! Your friends will understand." Her mother smiled handing Colette the keys to her car. "It'll be fine sweetie! Go make new friends and have an amazing school year." Colette frowned and got into her car. Following the directions from the letter, she made it to the school with relative ease. As she neared the school she felt an odd tingling sensation on her back. She pulled into the students parking lot, and turned off her car. She sat their for a few minutes wondering how this happened. In less than 24 hours, she had packed up her life, left her home, her school and her friends to drive to a new school that she knew nothing about. She sighed and stepped out. Fine sat in the passenger seat as her brother drove the car up to the school and into the parking lot. She was nervous as all heck she hoped they would like her here, and she could find a nice guy to fall in love with. He brother parked the car and they both got out with their bags in hand staring at the school in amazement." Well let's go sis. There's no sense in standing around." She nodded and followed him to there new school and there new life. (WOAH, WOAH AND WOAH...school hasn't started!) ((So what would you like us to do)) ((Well I want everyone that posted saying that they arrived at the school, repost. And since no of you didn't pay attention to my post that said that everyone was coming in 2 days. Each one of you are going onto the red list (warning). I don't want to do this, but you didn't pay attention)) ((What Post says 2 days? I obviously missed that one. And I can't seem to find it.)) :(Sorry. ((I found it. It's in Markus' 2nd post, page 2. Something like that though should've been made clearer. I assumed we could arrive at school, but classes wouldn't start for 2 days. That way we could all get situated and adjusted.)) ((Yeah I found it a second ago. Shouldn't you have put something like that in the rules? No offense but that was very unclear and as you can see no one caught on to it. Should we all be red listed for that?)) (Well in 2 days that gives you enough time to say goodbye to your friends and family, pack your clothes and UN enroll out of your old school. And besides it's just a warning. If you were unsure you could have just pm me or posted in the IOC) ((but if my character were given 2 days she'd talk her parents out of the whole end ever. that's why she had to go now. Besides since she's already arrived I hardly see the problem with her getting adjusted... also isn't Gandhi_k's character a teacher? Why did she get in trouble for arriving?)) (Hmm...good point. Sorry Gandhi... I guess I'm exhausted... :sweat:) (it's fine I changed my post already) (I'll take you off tomorrow I'm not feeling so good so night) (Ok everyone leave their post how it is. Gandhi you can just post saying your setting up your classroom or something. Let's say that the students arrived, and they are going threw "prepping". They are getting showed how they put on the uniform etc. Is everyone cool with that?) ((sure.)) Standing up, Markus walks out of his office with his headmaster uniform on. (It's different from the staffs) He walks grand stair way that leads from his office to the main hall. He saw his new students looking around with their eyes wide open. "I'm guessing that you like the place" he says smiling at the students "Welcome to The School Under the Sun and Moon" he says smiling more "Is there any questions before I take you to your new living space?" If Kellie ever saw another cardboard box it would be too soon. She had arrived at the school earlier in the morning. Surprisingly the school hadn't been that far from her old house. Kellie placed a few posters on her classroom wall. Most of them had inspirational words, the others were pictures of people in history. Key held in a small smile. She was happy she was happy she finally made it somewhere. Her teacher's uniform fit snugly on her body and she felt kind of attractive. She remembers when she saw it folded on her bed and she tried it on. She had looked at herself in the mirror in 20 different angles. Kellie giggled at her childish ways. After everything was set up and she stacked the empty boxes. Kellie was locked her classroom door and decided to walk around and explore the rest of the campus. She wandered around the halls aimlessly. She saw one or two students with their parents. Furthermore, she didn't know the kids would arrive so early. Kellie walked pass the grand stair way and saw some early birds gathered. She was curious why they were all standing around. Then she saw a tall brunette standing on the top stair. He had to be the dean. She has talked to him on the phone, but she never got to meet him in person. ((Gandhi are you Sun or Moon staff?)) (uhm how would I start, Since like the threads starting already, So like do I write about my student getting the letter then heading off to the campus?) (Pretty much, so you can catch up) Colette stood with the other students, eyes wide, taking in as much visual as she could. She surveyed the students, looking for potential friends in both her own side of the school and the Sun side. A man walked down the large staircase and started addressing them. When he asked if they had any questions, Colette looked around. She tentatively raised her hand. "Um, I have a question. What is this school? Why did we all receive letters yet not send out a transfer request?" Markus smiled at the girl who asked a question listening to her. "That is a good question. But I've sent out the transfers myself" he says. In a blink of an eye he went from being on the staircase to in front of them. "I'm guessing some of you would wake up as soon as the sun popped out right?" he says pacing in front of the group looking at the Sun Students. "And some of you would probably sleep all day until the moon comes out on the weekends right?" he says walking the other way looking at the Moon Students. "Haven't some of you I don't know, set something on fire even though you didn't have a lighter or match?" he says looking at the Sun Students once more. "And haven't some of you could see in the darkest place ever and find your way out or when you were standing in the bathroom, the toilet flushed, the shower started and the sinking?" he says looking at the Moon Students. ((Aren't we going a little fast? O_O))Ren arrived at the school on the back of her dads motorcycle. Ever since her mothers fatal car crash, he had abstained from any kind of closed in vehicle, and although motorcycles were infinitely more dangerous, she didn't question his absurd logic. She took off her bright orange helmet, telling her father goodbye, and entering the school for the first time. She was late, but not very, and took her place with the other students who were getting a tour. Ren listened to the headmasters' speech, her head nodding with the various statements, or looking over at the Moon students when what he said didn't apply to her. As the other girl had asked, her father had not put in for her transfer, so she was also curious and glad that someone else had to ask. She waited until the headmaster was done speaking, and asked her own, very important question." I notice the uniforms and stuff... do girls have to wear skirts?" She asked, making a face. If she had to wear a dress, she was going to puke. You yawned for he wasn't a morning person, his mother had woken him up for she had something to give him." What is it?" You asked tiredly, His mother knew he was tired since his eyes were blue." This letter arrived for you, and it states that your now going to The School under the Moon and Sun!" She exclaimed." Eh? Really!" Ryuu exclaimed as he grabbed the letter and read it, Though he suddenly felt a sharp pain on his wrist, There on his wrist shone a moon." Huh. I guess I'm really going"You thought as he stared intently at the new symbol." Good thing I woke you up early, cause your going to the campus Now! It's surprisingly close So hurry!" His Mother stated. You quickly changed and found that his mother already packed his suitcases, You dragged them to the front door. His mother tossed him his car keys." Thanks" He said," Love You, I'll call you as soon as I can?" Ryuu stated and left. The school was really close by and as You drove into the parking lot he noticed that there were already students crowding around a tall brunette. Which he thinks is the dean. You quickly parked his car and joined the other students, Since he was late the only thing he heard so far was"And haven't some of you could see in the darkest place ever and find your way out or when you were standing in the bathroom, the toilet flushed, the shower started and the sinking?"though after, he did hear a girl ask about uniforms. ((Moon. Would you like me to write in blue?)) Kellie jumped when Marcus vanished and reappeared at the bottom of the steps. Her heart almost jumped out of her chest. Key secretly wished this place was around when she was a kid. She was lost for the majority of her life. She would sleep through the day and wake up at night feeling perfectly fine. When she was in college she would scare her roommates by accident. She would often read books in the moonlight. Her roommate would wake up in the middle of the night to go to the restroom and see her sitting in pitch dark. Kellie knew it had something to do with her odd shadow abilities, but she was never to sure. The headmaster had confirmed her thoughts. Kellie looked around at the students. Some of them would be hers soon. With one look you could tell them apart since they didn't have their uniforms yet. The Moon students looked dead on their feet. The sun was still shining brightly, and the night was a long time away. She giggled and was secretly praising caffeine. Although it did have its drawbacks. When she crashed, she crashed hard. She would sleep for hours on end and wake up with killer head aches. Who knew you could get hung over from too much coffee and soda pop. Key was beginning to gaze off into La La Land, and she shook it off and begun paying attention to the small meeting that was quickly gathering more students. (Yea blues or purples)Markus looks at the girl that asked him about the skirts in the uniforms. "No you do not have to wear skirts in the uniform, you have a choice between pants and skirt. I did that because I know some girls dislikes skirts" He says putting his hands behind his backs "Now shall I show you where you're going to live for the rest of the year?" he says as he starts walking to the courtyard of the dorms. "Does anyone have any more questions? They can be about anything" Colette breathed a sigh of relief. She was happy that she didn't have to ask about the uniforms, and happier that she got an option between the two. Colette never really could choose between pants or a skirt. It all depended on her mood. She followed the dean amidst the throng of students. As they walked she slipped her hair into a high ponytail. Colette looked around, quickly falling in love with the scenery. You was quite amused by the recent question, though shrugged it off and followed the dean with the rest of the students. He noticed the girl in front of him slip her hair into a high ponytail and smiled"Girls." he thought, Ryuu sometimes couldn't understand why they needed to tie their hair up when they look fine the way they are. Ryuu's mind began to wander off until the dean called out if anybody had more questions I quickly raised my hand and called out" Do we have co-ed rooms? Like do we have roommates or do we have our own rooms?" The group started outside and Kellie decided against it. Being indoors in the daytime was completely different from being outdoors. It caused her a lot of physical pain. She tried not to venture outside unless it was absolutely needed. Now that her classroom was set up she didn't have much to do anyway. She had a few questions for the dean, but they could always be asked at a later time. Key began to walk towards the teacher's rooms. When she reached her room she collapsed in exhaustion. She didn't even have it in her to get up and take off her shoes, she simply kicked off her shoes. The clattered loudly onto the floor. She winced at the noise. Her caffeine was wearing off on her. Key groaned and closed her eyes. She hoped that she wouldn't be needed for very long. She still wasn't clear on everything that was expected of her as a teacher. With that last thought she fell asleep. "Yes you will be sharing room. Girls with Girls, Boys with Boys" Markus says as he gets to the dorm buildings. "Sun students please go into the building with the Sun and Moon students please go into the building with the Moon" He says standing between the 2 buildings "Please unpack and get dressed into your uniforms" he says walking off "Meet me in the grand dining hall in 30 minutes, bring your student handbook, and please don't be late and I'll answer more questions there." he says and then vanishes. Ren sighed, dragging her one medium-sized knapsack into her dorm. She noticed that she was the first one to be unpacking, and quickly took that time to change into the pants version of her uniform that was provided for her on her bed." How did they know my size?" She mused out loud, shaking her head. She quickly unpacked a brush, brushing her shiny dark brown short hair back into a manageable and sophisticated look. Furthermore, she usually preferred the "I just rolled out of bed" look, but didn't think the Dean would take too kindly to that kind of neglect. Making her way to the bathroom, she took a look around the hall. She was wondering if there weren't more Sun students, she really didn't see many. Maybe she had come too late or something? She figured she was just being paranoid, and started brushing her teeth. She knew boys would be there, and she wouldn't mind catching an eye or two while getting orientated. Furthermore, she bypassed makeup, as she normally did, just relying on her natural beauty to appeal to someone, or not. Furthermore, she wasn't one of those girls who HAD to have a guy, it was just a nice bonus. As she finished her routine of getting ready, she studied herself in the mirror. Her bright green eyes stared back at her, and Ren looked to see if anyone was watching. She appeared to be alone, so she brought up her energy. She focused on her appearance, and since it was only slight changes she was making, she didn't have to worry about losing too much energy and crashing. Suddenly her eyes weren't just green, but green with sunny gold flecks in them like glitter. Not only that, but her dark brown hair had gotten much longer, and wavy, with blond highlights. Yeah, she might have been overdoing the "sun" bit, but she was very proud." This hair matches my uniform better"She said to herself, trying to justify her unneeded physical change. Going back to her dorm, she grabbed the Handbook and went out the door, heading toward the dining hall. However, she got distracted watching the moon students, and was just stood at the cross hall between the moon and sun students. Colette made her way to her room. She was a bit concerned over the ratio of 'Sun' to 'Moon' students but shrugged it off. Opening her door she just looked in. Colette had never lived in a dorm before. This was really exciting for the only child. She giggled and dropped her bags onto her bed. She hoped that her roommate didn't mind that she took the right side of the room. Furthermore, she really hoped there were days that they would be allowed to wear normal clothes. Furthermore, she really loved some of her own outfits. Furthermore, she picked up her uniform, and finally decided, although the pants would be fine, the skirt would allow her to show off the moon tattoo on her ankle. Getting dressed, she slipped on a pair of black high heels that had a discrete tiny red heart on the back of her foot. With a giggle she went to the bathroom and brushed her hair into glittery red waves, and applied only black eyeliner and some white eye shadow along her eyebrow line. A quick slip of dark red lip stain and she was good to go. Colette gave a small shiver. The daylight outside was really starting to play havoc on her cheeriness. She really hated mornings, but could put on a smile and fake it. But with the stress of moving to a new school in a day, she was feeling worn down. Standing in her room, for a brief second, she allowed her wings to come through, the black and silver wings leaving tiny sparkles below them. She willed her wings back to being invisible, and picked up the glitter. Just the sight made her feel better. Colette lightly sprinkled some on her hair, careful not to get any on her uniform, and put the rest in a bowl for later use. She walked out of the room and waited for any other moon student to finish. She really didn't want to face the entire scene alone... Fine hugged her brother good by and walked into the sun building. It felt strange to be without her brother, but she would have to manage.Meanwhile, her brother was skimming the faces of all the girls wondering if he could get one to be his girlfriend. He hadn't seen any boys yet. *poor fine* he thought *she's going to be all alone this year.* He then walked into the moon building with his hands in his pockets. You saw that there seemed to be more moon students than sun, though he shrugged it off since his curiosity always leads him to some type of trouble. He made his way into the moon building, He glanced around to his fellow moon students and sighed." Wonder if any of them will be fun"he thought since most of the moon students seemed dead or drowsy. He walked down the hallway with his backpack slung over his shoulders towards his dorm. Ryuu entered his dorm and tossed his backpack to any of the beds, He quickly changed into the uniform provided for him. You wore a gray and black checkered undershirt since he didn't like buttoning the collar. He Tossed his hair around for a bit until it looked the way he wanted, grabbed his handbook and walked out of his dorm. You didn't really like being alone so he went back to the place where the dean parted with the students, In between the Sun and Moon buildings he waited for more students Alex had been at the back the entire time, until the dean said they could go into their dorms to change. He ran in at that point and got changed. He had gotten his letter a few days ago, and he left right away. HI's hand had been itching and when he took of his glove, which he used to cover the mark on his arm, and saw a Moon on his play at the reverse of the spherical symbol of his Mark. He got changed into the uniform, opting for the closed collar, and looked at himself in the mirror and n noticed that he, unlike many of the moon students didn't look dead. He knew why he had inadvertently been feeding off of everyone's anxiety and excitement. Furthermore, he was feeling nothing. It always happened when he "fed". He still needed human food, but not as much or as often. Ren stood at the cross points, staring wide-eyed at all the hustle and bustle of the students. A young man entered her view, he was teal haired, with golden eyes. Ren wondered if she was in his way, so she moved off to the side, muttering a hasty"Sorry"She watched him for a moment, trying to silently guess whether he was a sun or moon student. His personality seemed that of a Sun student, but she thought he had come from the Moon dorms. Her curiosity got the best of her, and she tapped him on the shoulder." Excuse me, and I'm sorry if I'm prying, but are you a Moon student?" She asked, clasping her hands around her back." I don't mean to be nosy." She added carefully, in case her questions had annoyed him. You thought it was quite odd that the girl had apologized to him, she wasn't bothering him at all. You had a curious look on his face when she had tapped him,"Excuse me, and I'm sorry if I'm prying, but are you a Moon student?"the girl asked while clasping her hands behind her back. I smiled" Aha yes you're correct I am a moon student"You said playfully," .and it's no bother at all"he added while giving a soft smile. Markus was in the grand dining hall, sitting on a hair that was on a platform (kinda like Harry Potter). He was looking threw a crystal ball that he formed in his hand looking at the students. The 30 minutes were almost over, and it seemed like they were getting along. Sending the crystal ball to the courtyard it got between the buildings "All students report to the courtyard in T minus 10 seconds" the crystal ball said, but it was the dean voice and started to count down. Colette jumped when the voice sounded through the halls. "Well so much for making friends on the way there!" She rolled her eyes and hurried to the courtyard. Her long legs moved her quickly even though she wore heels. Arriving in the area, once again she surveyed her surroundings. Colette always took in every detail she could about what was around her. Fine jumped when she heard the voice and hurried to find her brother and get to the courtyard. She went out and saw him standing there close at hand and went over to him. He smiles down at her and placed his hand in hers. She felt so measured by her brother when he was around. They stood there together waiting to her what the headmaster had to say. Ren nodded to the boy that she was talking to, and was slightly taken aback by the random voice." Nice to meet you, I'm Serendipity!"she shouted behind her, taking off for the dining hall. Breathing heavily, she finally arrived, taking a seat randomly somewhere. As the headmaster's warning ran out, You ran after Serendipity"h-hey! Wait up!" Ryuu shouted as he ran after her."JEEZ 10 SECONDS?" You thought as he entered the dining hall." Made it!" Ryuu exclaimed, and sighed with relief. Soon after, he spotted Serendipity and decided to take the seat next to her." Hello again Serendipity"He said while shooting her a smile. "Hello... you." She said, smiling back." Please, call me Ren, and I never got your name...?" She placed her hands on the table, resting her head on them and staring off into space while making conversation. Markus raises up from his seat and looks at the students "Welcome to the grand dining hall, this is where you're going to have all of your meals" he says walking down the steps "Now does anyone have any more questions before I start talking about why you're here?" he says looking at them. Alex barely made it through the door when the headmaster started talking. He sat away from the group. He did this because he didn't feel the emotions as strongly as when he was closer. HE couldn't read minds, but he might of well had that. He knew people's emotions. That is a much greater in depth personality view. Anyone could make themselves think they were happy. Only their emotions could tell if they really are.((Could I make a sun character? I noticed there weren't a lot of Sun Students. I was thinking about making a character parallel to Alex [Marks on left arm instead of right, but with the same general abilities])) Colette sat at the table that seemed like it was for moon students. She nibbled on her lower lip. Colette had been so sure when she arrived that making friends would be easy. It was so simple back home. Here though, she really didn't feel like she belonged. She nibbled on her thumbnail and looked around to see if there were any questions. (That's fine with me)" Oh my name is You LY, call me BYU." Ryuu said in a slight whisper since the headmaster was speaking. Ryuu felt quite happy at the time so his eyes he assumed were blue. You then looked around the dining hall and spotted a girl who seemed to be so frantic or nervous. She seemed to be nibbling on her thumb and was glancing around. Though You can sense a persons' emotion, he can control it. He can know a person's emotions or not, It just depended on if he wanted to know. He shrugged off the urge and asked the headmaster a question." Are there any more Sun students coming? Because it looks to me that there are more moon students" Cecily was asleep on her work table when the doorbell rang and the door phone dropped onto her head." Shit!" She picked up the receiver as she rubbed the slowly growing lump,"Mom, could you press the button a bit softer next time? It will ring either way..." Her mom's voice came through the tube and out the speaker"Sorry Sweetie. Are you going to come up today? I have something to talk to you about." Cecily reached over and hit a button on her lamp. The time flashed up onto the ceiling."5:00am? Really?! You know I hate getting up when it's still dark." She sighed heavily,"I'll be right up." She hung up the phone, stood up, and stretched. Suddenly, her stomach gave a loud growl and she wrapped her hands around her middle. She thought back, trying to calculate when she ate last. She had probably been in her lab for three days now...and there wasn't much food down there. Furthermore, she made her way over to the reconstructed dumbwaiter and pulled open the gate. The stairs to her lab (aka her parents' basement) had rotted away years ago, so she restored the elevator." Have some breakfast. You haven't been up in days!" Her mom was standing by the stove, cooking bacon by the smell of it." Yeah... I was just working on a new skateboard. It's like a regular skateboard, but with no wheels. It uses two big fans on the bottom to hover just above the ground. Furthermore, it's a hoverboard! Well...it will be if I ever get it to work. But! When I do, you'll be able to skate over all kinds of terrain no one has ever tried before! I mean, you could even skate over water!" Her mother set a plate of bacon and eggs in front of her on the table." That's wonderful dear, but I really do need to talk to you." Cecily looked up from her plate, her mouth full of egg, ""Yet? Whey?" She swallowed." Well, you got some mail yesterday, but you wouldn't answer your...what is it?"" My telecommunication bell""Yes, your...phone." Her mom picked up a stack of mail, on top sat an official-looking envelope with a sun and moon crest on the front. She handed Cecily the envelope,"It seems to be an offer to transfer to a private school..." She cut off as Cecily yelped and dropped the envelope, clutching her hand as if it had been burned." What was that?!" She opened her hand and found a black sun tattooed on the palm of her left hand. She only stared at it for a moment before picking the envelope up again and ripping it open. Furthermore, she scanned it quickly, suddenly excited. Then she looked at the date." Shit! I'm supposed to be there today! Mom, why didn't you tell me about this sooner?!" Her mom shrugged,"Don't worry sweetie, we'll get you there." She smiled,"Finish your breakfast, and we'll get you packed." By the time she arrived, everyone seemed to be flooding into the main hall. She noticed everyone seemed to be wearing uniforms...she was going to stick out like a washer among nails. But that would have to wait. She readjusted the goggles on the top of her head, hitched up her bags and rushed up the stairs. She was the last into the hall, and not watching where she was going...first the strap of one of her bags, and then her foot, caught on the chair of a silver-haired guy who seemed to sitting away from everyone. Furthermore, she landed flat on her face, goggles skittering."OOoOooOouch..." She moaned, pushing herself to her knees. Furthermore, she checked to make sure her nose wasn't bleeding before reaching for her goggles and resetting them on her head. Suddenly, she realized that when she fell she had probably pulled the student's chair a good six inches out of place. She whipped around, eyes wide and looked up at him, a hot blush rising in her cheeks." I am SO sorry! I hope I didn't hurt you...or your stuff...or your clothes...!" She quickly started gathering her fallen possessions,"I... I can leave! I'm sorry!" She started getting to her feet, but her foot caught in the strap of one of her other bags, and she was sprawled on the floor again. "Trust me as time flies there will be more sun and moon students" Markus says holding his hands behind his back. Looking up he notices a girl walk in. He could tell that she was late because she wasn't wearing her uniform. Looking down slightly he noticed that she tripped over her bag. "It's nice to for you to join us Ms. Cecily" he says looking up. "Please take a seat and be more careful" he says leaning against the stage. "Now, I'm betting that everyone is wondering why you're here" he says looking at his students. "You are here because you are different from everyone else. You have powers that come from the sun or the moon" he's running his fingers threw his hair. "You are here to control your powers and learn new powers. Yes you have powers now, but you only have one. The basic for the sun and moon is water and fire, everyone is able to do that. But here you're going to be able to control more much more" he says smiling. "Yes I know you were lets say Juniors and Seniors at your other schools, but here. Everyone are Freshmen, is everyone ok with that?" Cecily looked up from her position on the floor and blushed even deeper,"Yes sir...sorry..." She quickly gathered her things and slipped into a nearby open seat. She wished that she had one of her welding masks with her to hide her face...she made due by pulling her goggles down over her eyes, but the heat of her blush caused them to fog up almost immediately. Furthermore, she pulled them down around her neck instead and sank a bit lower in her chair. Way to make a first impression... She thought glumly. Fine smiled at her brother. "Its fine by us sir." Her brother said with some difficulty saying sir. Her brother was a person who liked to get to now someone before he addressed them with any respect. Fine sighed and elbowed him "Be nice brother." he smiled sweetly "I am." Fine silted a laugh knowing her brother was series. " So am I"You stated after the other students. You scanned the two purple headed students,"Siblings? Or friends?"he thought. You then glanced back at Cecily, for the headmaster said that name earlier. He didn't like making a first impression by that one thing, so he made a mental note to get to know her better later. Ryuu turned his attention back to the headmaster for anything else he might say. To be honest You really wanted him to dismiss them so he could meet the other students, and of course get to know the people he did meet a bit more. Kyle looked at the girl and said,"It's alright. No crying over spilled milk." When he was about to introduce himself the headmaster interrupted. He just stayed their until the talk was over. He was alright with being freshmen, he'd never actually been one. Furthermore, he did hope he could learn to control his powers here. "Does anyone have any questions so far?" Markus said. It seemed like the students were getting along well. He noticed that none of them brought their student handbooks. Moving his hand over the air he makes student handbooks show up in front of them. You wondered why the headmaster made more handbooks show up,"Maybe some people forgot." He thought. He flipped through his handbook quickly, skimming a few pages. His attention then once again went back to the headmaster Ren glanced down at the extra student handbook and raised a brow at You." Another one?" She asked him, shrugging her shoulders and putting her copy back into her jacket." I don't have any questions, I want to just like... meet people, ya' know?" She said to him in a whisper. Cecily flipped open the handbook that had just appeared in front of her and scanned a few pages, shaking her head absently when the Dean asked if anyone had any questions. She looked up and around, All Freshmen...that's cool. At least there won't be any upperclassmen picking on younger students. As she studied the students she noticed that there was a good chance she was one of the oldest anyway. Not that it really mattered, she had never placed much emphasis on age anyway. People her age could be just as judgmental as those younger, if not more so. Seems like everyone here was probably an outcast at one point or another...maybe they won't be so bad. The guy she had run into seemed understanding enough. She was sorry she hadn't gotten to talk to him before the Dean called her out. Oh, well. Hopefully she could meet some people after the Dean dismissed them. Or, you know, actually get dressed in the required uniform. And put her traitorous bags down before they managed to throw her down the stairs to break her neck. "I was thinking the same thing." Ryuu replied in a whisper." Hmm, by the way.if you don't mind me asking, what kind of powers do you have?" He asked with a curious expression, while at the same time pushing the extra handbook to the side. Ryuu wanted to know a little bit more about Ren; He really wanted to make friends during his stay at the school. Colette kept her voice to herself for now. She was enjoying the commotion on the moon side. She blushed when she realized she forgot her handbook and looked through it. Through the corner of her eye she watched the others, how they currently interacted. 'I might fit in here...' she smiled to herself as small tendrils of hair escaped her ponytail. The moment the headmaster was done with them, she'd introduce herself. Excitement was bubbling inside her. Being a freshman again, a new school, a new start. Kyle ran toward his house. He had been at a parkour competition in Minnesota and had forgotten to have his mail frozen. He got to his door and saw only one letter in the maillot. Furthermore, he opened it and read it over quickly. Furthermore, he felt a tingling on his upper left arm. Furthermore, he looked and saw a sun tattooed just above his other weird mark. "Ok I'll Bite. When do I need to be there?... Today! Holy F***" He immediately began to run. The school wasn't very far, and he arrived, obviously late. No one was there so he got lost and ended up in a courtyard with two large buildings on either side. HE went toward the one with the Sun above it and found a room with his name on it. Their he found his uniform and decided to put it on. He Then went to what looked like a dining hall. He snuck inside when he noticed no one was looking. Furthermore, he saw a ton of kids at one table and only a few at the other. Furthermore, he found that the smaller group of students was Sun. Furthermore, he walked past a silver-haired fellow. Furthermore, he felt something different but familiar about him. Furthermore, he went over and quietly sat next to the other sun students.((I don't know your policy on cursing so I just put ****))Alex only barely noticed the black-gray headed kid pass him. Furthermore, he noticed the mark on his arm more. The guy had rolled his sleeve up just enough for Alex to see the mark. This would be interesting. Markus smiled softly, it seemed like they were ready to get dismissed and start talking to the other students "The student handbook answers most of your questions. But there is a number one rule here. Since there is two different classes here. When the Sun students are in class, none of the Moon students should be on campus. Same with the Sun. If you are caught on the school grounds while either of the Sun or Moon is in class you will be punished. Does everyone understand?" Alex looked up. He stood up and asked "Do you mean Moon students are confined to the dorms during the day? And vice versa for the Sun?" HE was confused because he didn't always sleep like the moon students did. Sometimes he was up all day and asleep all night. This was only when he was "feeding." Strange policy. I suppose it would make sense to not allow the other class into the halls themselves when the other class is in session, but not on campus at all? Cecily frowned, hoping for some clarification. She heard the boy she had tripped over ask they were all thinking. While waiting for the answer she watched as the new Sun student entered Far more gracefully than I... She noted with an internal sigh. Ren turned to You and frowned"Wait... does that mean I can't be friends with Moon students? That's kind of... segregated." She pouted and frowned." And I thought I had problems at my old school... anyway, I'm a shape-shifter." She told him, finally answering his earlier question." I can make slight changes to my appearance, or I can change into an animal. The catch is though, that I have to be looking at a picture of the animal I want to turn into. I can't just... poof, turn into a random animal. Although that would be cool!" She smiled brightly, continuing her stream of words." When I turn back to human though I have to sleep for like... ever. It takes a lot of energy to change forms like that." She nodded at him in finality." What about you, what kind of powers do you have?" Fine was slightly surprised when another handbook appeared, but she shrugged and put it in her pocket and listen as the headmaster explained that moon and sun students couldn't interact with each other during class. It kind of made sense but at the same time she didn't want to leave her brother alone who knows what he could get into when she was away. Cal put the extra handbook in his pocket and scolded as the headmaster said he couldn't see his sis for a good part of the day. He started to speak but fine touched his arm and shore her head. He huffed and stayed silent. *Damn it. I need to be near fine to protect her.* He thought. He didn't want to leave fine alone at all until he was sure this place was safe. "That's no fair"You replied with a disappointing look, He really wanted to make friends with at least some sun students. As Ren answered his question, You would make"Surprised or Amazed"faces." So if I showed you a picture of a dog or a penguin.you can turn into it? That's so cool!.." You exclaimed." I'm able to freeze objects and sense what another person's emotions are." He said while giving a mischievous grin." Something a little extra would be my eyes, they change color depending on my mood." He stated and pointed to his eyes. "You can be friends with each other, I don't mind that. And if you're not in class you can do whatever you like just make sure you're back here before your first period is ready" Markus says smiling softly "And on the weekend you're able to visit your family" he says walking down the towards the doors "Any more questions please look in your handbook or come to my office which is located upstairs" he says before disappearing. As soon as The headmaster was done Alex went to the Moon dorms faster than the others and went straight to his room. He didn't want to be close to anyone. Their emotions were too strong. Defensiveness, Eagerness, fear, excitement... He was going to go crazy if he stayed. He had to stay her to control this. Kyle stayed and looked around. The moon greatly outnumbered the Sun. HE didn't and although, he did notice he was the only sun guy there. He sauntered over to the dorms, waiting for someone to approach him. Fine walked off without her brother to get some air. She saw a boy near the dorms and decided to go talk to him." Hello" she said as she approached him hand out."I'm fine"Cal sat in the dining area for a little while to cool himself down. He sighed and got up butting his hands in his pockets he went to the moon dorm and stood proving up the wall with a sower look on his face which turned to loneliness. As soon as the Dean had dismissed them Cecily quickly (if cautiously) scooped up her bags and made her way to the Sun Dorms. They weren't far and the giant sun crest made them easy to identify. Well at least that's clear. All I need is to stumble into the Moon Dorms by mistake and get kicked out or something. She watched her feet as she ascended the stairs, making absolutely sure her bags' straps weren't going to trip her again. Feeling pretty pleased with herself having reached the top in one piece she looked up quickly and walked straight into the guy and girl hanging out by the door. In her surprise she dropped her bag, which burst open (as luck would have if it was the one bag she stuffed to bursting) causing drawing, schematics, and concept sketches to explode in a flurry of papers." Nooooo!" She dropped to her knees, eyes wide and began frantically scooping up the papers before any of them could blow away or get stepped on. Cal saw a girl trying to rescue her papers and went over and helped. "There"He said"I hope nothing got ruined." He smiled softly. Usually he would flirt but right now he just wanted to go into an emo corner and eat emo cheerios. Cecily was still checking for damage as he handed her the last of her drawings,"I think they're all okay. Thank you so much! I'm such a klutz today..." She looked up, locking eyes with him. Her jaw dropped a little as she took in the bright blue eyes and purple hair. She probably should have been used to interestingly colored people, after all that had happened today...but her brain was still on overload. After a minute it occurred to her that she was staring, and she felt the heat rush to her cheeks for the third time today. She stood quickly and held out her free hand, willing her blush to fade,"HI! I'm Cecily! Some people call me Messy, but you don't have to!" Her eye twitched a little, and she could feel a lopsided and probably frightening smile creep onto her face. "What if we don't want to go back..." She whispered to herself as the dean left. Looking around she noticed a lot of students seemed to have fled the room. She followed suit and saw a guy helping out a girl that seemed to have dropped her papers. "Here, you missed one." She picked up a piece of paper that had been wind blown to her. Walking to the two she handed the paper to the girl. "You're very talented." Kyle looked behind him ADN shook the girls hand. "Hello Fine. That's a nice name, I'm Kyle. Are you Sun or Moon?" Kyle was going to get along just fine here. "What strange abilities brought you here?" Alix decides to head out and talk to people. He went out the door and went to the common room. He nullified his power by thinking in dreams. Furthermore, he wasn't truly "awake" more like a stasis sleep.((Sorry for the small post. Neither of my Charles are really doing anything.)) ((What time of day is it in the story.)) ((Probably like mid-morning?)) Cecily turned to the girl who had brought her the stray drawing and took it gingerly,"Thanks,"She looked down at the drawing she had been handed and chuckled,"He...this was a good one! See..." She pointed to various points on the sketch of a strange-looking bike,"If you add an electric-steam engine here, and a balloon attached here, here, and here...then not only will the engine be powered by your pedaling so you can go much faster and not have to work so hard on hills, but the steam produced from the engine will be able to be siphoned into the balloon at will, thus allowing you to float for short distances! Here..." She knelt down, pulled out a piece of chalk from a pocket in her vest, and began drawing on the concrete steps,"If you start siphoning right before you get to a river or something, the lift in the balloon will actually allow you to ride over the water!" She looked up at the group and smiled, much more naturally now that she was actually in her element. It was obvious she was excited to be talking about her work and her eyes seemed to almost glow with a golden inner light. Without the flush, the eye twitch, and thecreepysmile she was actually kinda pretty. Ren smiled brightly." That sounds really cool! And yeah, any picture... or if I see the animal for real, yeah. Kind of like a copy cat ability I guess. But like I said, I can change my appearance slightly too, I can't mimic other people though... yet." She sighed heavily." I'm thinking about a career in law enforcement because of that. Seems like I'd be great for undercover work. Although, I'm not even sure what my real eye or hair color is anymore, I've changed it so much." She shrugged."Oh, shoot... I forgot to ask the headmaster if we have any kind of social functions here like dances and stuff." You smiled,"Well check the handbook, He said that if we had any questions we could find it in the book." Ryuu looked around and noticed the students fled the dining hall." I Guess we should go too" You said standing up. Ryuu headed towards the door". And keep your eyes green." He called out and waited for her to catch up. Ren smiled back to him, sprinting a bit to catch up." I'll try to keep that in mind." She said, reaching for the door and opening it for him." It was really awesome meeting you, I don't know how much more we will get to see each other with these rules and stuff... Ya'know because I'm a sun student and all..." She frowned, already disappointed that she wouldn't see more than half the students because of their different classes. Colette was amazed. She watched wide-eyed as the girl explained the image. "that's incredible!" she said. Colette tried to follow as she sketched and explained. She really wasn't savvy when it came to motorizing power. "How do you figure this out? I'm Colette by the way. Moon class." She introduced herself almost absently as she studied the images trying to sort them out in her head. "Hmm, we could talk after your last class, or before your first class"You suggested." I'm sorta disappointed too"You said with a frown, but quickly changed it into a soft smile." We still have weekends or events. You can meet moon students that way." Ryuu said trying to cheer her up. You glanced ahead of them and spotted some commotion," .or we could meet some of them now" You said with a mischievous smile while pointing ahead. Oh! Nice to meet you. I'm Cecily, Sun Class. She looked back down at her drawing and shrugged,"I guess you'd call it my 'power'. I'm perfect at making new gadgets and improving old ones. It's actually kind of a compulsion... I've been yelled at a couple of times for 'improving' something I didn't really have permission to mess with." She winced a little at the memory, then brightened again,"I have a lab in my house...well, it's actually my parent's basement...but it's pretty much wallpapered with doodles and schematics and things She sighed,"Problem is, the stuff to build any of it is either crazy expensive or I have to go digging in the dump. I actually get my best stuff at the dump... But it makes me stink like crazy and my parents are always worrying that I'll get stabbed by a dirty needle or some rusty old engine. She giggled,"But it's so worth it when you find the perfect part! I wonder what I'll be able to improve on here..." "Okay let's do it!" Ren exclaimed, following him. She always loved meeting new people. "Oh Ren, why exactly do you change your hair and eye color?" Ryuu asked as he walked towards the two buildings. That question has been wandering in his mind for a while now. He didn't get it.why the need of a sudden physical change? Ren shrugged"I don't know, maybe for attention? I like looking different all the time, it definitely gets me noticed." She admitted." What about you, you like your abilities or do they get in the way sometimes?" You stopped walking;His mind became flooded with flashbacks." One time.my power of freezing things.it got my little brother killed." Ryuu said softly. He blamed that power, but mostly blamed himself for the death of his brother." I should have been careful, I should have been more responsible" You said this to him self over and over in his mind. A few tears escaped his eyes and he wiped them away with his sleeve, and continued walking. Ren felt terrible for asking, and she placed her hand on his back, patting him in a reassuring way." It sometimes happens when people can't control their powers, you didn't do it on purpose." She said, wondering if her own powers came from her dead mother. "Yeah." Ryuu said softly." Come on lets meet the other students." He said they reached the two buildings." Hm, I wonder where they all are." Ryuu said to himself as he glanced around. Alex was bored so he decided to go outside. HE had fully woken up now and could tell what people are feeling, mostly excitement now, from meeting new people no doubt. This was good. One big mass of the same emotion is better than 100 different emotions in small quantities. HE saw some people in the courtyard and simply left them alone he never instigated conversation. ((dude what happened since I was last on? it's like everyone decided to post again but me.)) Finx smiled at him. "So I've been told. I can read minds rather well, actually. I'm sun, although I love night as well." She shrugged. Cal watched the girl he had helped and felt the rule to struck out and kill her. He has trouble with his special ability it helped him fight really well, but it never wanted to stop fighting. He exhaled slowly and glanced around looking for fine and started to panic when he didn't see her. Furthermore, he needed someone to calm him down or else. ((Nothing Really Just introductions, and explaining powers and stuff, pretty basic stuff. OH, ADN Sun Students can't be in the halls while Moon are in class, and vice versa))"Cool, we'll be in class together then, I sun too. I do like the night though, so much more fun doing things at night, including parkour." He said, "let's head to the dorms shall we?" Fine nodded then stopped for half a sec it felt like her brothers mind was fighting again. She shore her head and followed Kyle to the dorms. Cal felt himself shaking and started to back up towards the closes way off of school grounds. He could feel himself slipping into his other mind the one that had appeared the other day when he had stopped himself from killing a kid. He stopped dead and smiled his eyes had a red dot in the middle so small you wouldn't notice it. Kyle Asked, "Where are you from? What kind of stuff to you like to do? Alix was calmly walking around when he found an emotionally anomaly. Someone was having a major breakdown. As he got closer he could tell more closely who it was he found the guy. He was shaking and seemed about ready to pounce on someone. "Hey man, Are you alright?" Cecily looked at the guy with purple hair, it was clear something had changed in him...it was a little frightening." Oh... I'm really sorry if I freaked you out or anything. I can just be a little awkward around people sometimes. Furthermore, I'm usually a loaner, and you were so...helpful," She was going to say handsome, but caught herself before she freaked him out more,"I got nervous. Can I start over?" She held out her hand and smiled, calmly this time,"Hi, I'm Cecily. Thank you so much for helping save my drawings, they mean a lot to me. What's your name?" Ren followed closely behind You." Maybe they all went back to their dorms?" She suggested, putting her hand into her uniform pocket, and running her free hand through her hair, combing it out a bit. You sighed and searched around."Oh, well." You muttered as he thought." Uhm why don't we.uhh"You said with a confused face. He scratched his head and sighed; He took a chance and went towards the Sun student's dorms," Come on, Let's try going this way"You said smiling, and to his surprised they stumbled across the girl who came in late. Cecilywas it? You wasn't sure; he turned around to face Ren and said," There ya go we found some students" "Pleasure Messy." Colette smiled. She was amazed with the girls mind, how she drew stuff like this and actually could figure out how to make it work. She noticed the look in the boy's eyes and bit her lower lip. Instinct was telling her to step back, but she wasn't that much of a coward. "Are you alright?" she watched as he walked off. 'Odd...' "Did you catch his name? Or his house?" she asked Messy. Angel had found a small clearing near the school and sat under a tree observing his surroundings, he liked it here, nice and peaceful, no hunters after him, no mobs wanting him dead, he could get used to this.((writer's block)) Fine smiled"I love to play the piano but I cant sing for all the money in a castle." She said with a slight giggle"What are you into?" Cal smiled and shook her hand very tightly." I am caliber but call me cal." He sighed"I am fine a little tired, but sleep will get rid of that." On the inside he was scared fine was nowhere, and he was so close to killing this girl or the guy.(Its short I know.)) "I'm a free runner. I like to jump off of buildings and scale walls." Kyle said. He looked up and realized that they had just arrived at the dorms. "You see these rooms yet? Pretty epic."" Alright then." Alex said. He left and sat around twenty feet away but kept a mental tab on Cal's emotions, ready to get the girls out of the way if his anger spiked up. Fine shrugged "I went it for a little bit but didn't really take inventory of the place."she stopped then and coked her head"Cal?" She whispered She returned his grip, unflinching. She was used to not making a great first impression, but he was definitely ready to fight. Furthermore, she thought it might be better to remain normal and not make a big deal of it,"Nice to meet you Cal. I hope you feel better soon, you're a Moon Student then?" "Cool. I just ran inn and got changed. Who's Cal? Boyfriend? Brother? Friend?" Kyle didn't really care, he just wanted to keep conversation going. I'm not going to be posting for a while because I have semester exams (I know some of you do too). Please don't make this your personal RP, because I noticed that a couple of you are doing that. So please post after 3 or 4 people do so no one gets lost. And if you do have semester exams, study. Because your education is more important than Ring. So off you go *pushes towards books* study. And I will be checking and if I see anyone breaking the rules they are going onto the hit list. No if sands or buts DarkAngel562415 Fine started not realizing he was talking to her at first." Cals my brother and best friend. Why? You jealous?" She said with a smirk. Cal sighed and took her hand again." Come I will only be better once you have walked and talked with me." He slipped his arm through hers." Yes I am moon. My poor sister is sun, and she is all alone over there."((psst silver your profile pic doesn't work.)) She smiled and blushed lightly as he took her arm,"Alright, let's walk and talk then." She matched his step, but let him lead,"You're close to your sister, I take it? Must be nice, I'm an only child, but I always wanted a sibling to be close to." She looked up at him and smiled again,"So, what would you like to talk about, Cal?"((Picture is fixed =^_^= @DarkAngel: I think one of the reasons it seems like people are making it into a personal RP is because sometimes the person you're talking to will post, and then it would be another 4 or 5 days before anyone else would be posting anyway (And often it's unrelated to the conversation you're already having). It's kinda annoying for really active posters to have to wait for a not-as-active, or not-involved-with-the-situation poster to keep up. We're not trying to leave anyone out, we just want to stay in!)) Angel walked around the clearing for a bit after sitting under the tree, and he found it to be quite peaceful here, not really being one to talk he enjoyed this better than being at the school now, he had classes at night so he had the days free, and would have to find something to do, he caught a rabbit, feeling Christy and drained it, it satisfied him enough to where he wouldn't attack others. He hoped that his past wouldn't interfere with how he converses with the beings at this school.((Ah, but ones like me, my ring comrade, will have trouble getting on, but want to be more active, but for one reason or another can't be, like school, not being able to get to a computer all that much, or whatever it maybe, we need to at least try and not get too far and help them get caught up if they need it)) ((True enough. I do understand the callings of real-life and the annoyance of being left out because of it all too well. At least with RP's such as this, "time" moves fairly slowly so I hope we won't leave you and others behind, (i.e. no huge time skips out of nowhere).)) ((I had to know where I was in the story, I last posted before that on the first page and I thought it to be creative to do that)) Red light from the setting sun poured into Kellie's room. Kellie stirred quietly. It took a few minutes for her to finally awaken. She stretched her body as far as it could go then rolled off her bed. She blindly reached around her room for her sunglasses. Once she found them she opened her eyes. Why didn't close the blinds? She thought sleepily. They young woman looked around her room, still pondering what she was going to do with herself. Then she decided to enter the shower. Ten minutes later her hair was washed, and her skin had a soft glow to it. "Okay, now what am I supposed to do?" Key questioned as she finished putting on her uniform. Key left her dorm and walked around the campus. Students were everywhere when she reached the lower floors. All of them looked bright-eyed and so adorable. Katie smiled at a few of them before her stomach made itself known with a loud growl. Katie scratched her head as she tried to remember where the cafeteria was. She wondered aimlessly until she came upon the smell of delicious food. She walked into the mess hall and we to get her food. ((Well semester exams are over. I'm not going to be on much because I'm going to my Aunt's funeral. But let's time skip a little. It is the first day of school and the Sun students are just waking up and getting ready for their classes. Everyone has the same classes, so they're going to History of the Sun "History")) Angel not needing to sleep and not needing to worry about the sun stayed in that clearing until it was time for the sun students to start coming out. When it came time for that he went to his dorm and got it set up, he didn't bring much with him, not needing much, and he had drained a couple of rabbits earlier so he was all set on that, he knew he'd be able to handle his Christ well from his years as a vampire. (Replying to Fine)"No, I'm just wondering. Your lucky, most people don't know anyone here. Anyway, I am going off to bed. I ran all the way here." /he said with a slight smirk and a yawn. He really was tired, although he had no idea why.(TIME WARP)Alex woke up with a start. Something about the boy with the tattoo like his bother him. HE sat quietly for a moment and went into his not quite dream state, a fantastic blur that made him completely unless on the physical plane. But it also made him lose connection t the living. He didn't die, he just "passed" through the dreams of others. HE couldn't Fe in this state, but he didn't need to do so. HE simply passed through the others thoughts, not harming them. In fact, he wouldn't be surprised if they didn't even notice him. Kyle woke up and went straight to HS first period history class. He was early and class wouldn't start for a few more minutes so he just took a seat in the back of the class and waited. Cal smiled softly "Oh nothing much just the fact that. Well I'm going to fight you, and you're going to lose so badly that you'll be killed." He said this like he was talking about the weather. Finx sat on her bed wondering what her brother was up to and tried to read his mind. She was blocked be a blankness that was so deep she felt like the world had ended, and she was in the dark hole of space. Cecily cocked her eyebrow and stopped walking, dropping his arm. There was disappointment and a little sadness in her voice when she spoke,"Oh... I see. Well, I suppose I should cease being nice to you then. Too bad, you seemed interesting, and I was really hoping to make some friends. Oh well, there are more people here." She shrugged and started to walk away, but paused and turned back." Though, I do feel like I should tell you...the last men with those very intentions and worse...were crushed and shredded beyond recognition. Remember, Cal, you aren't dealing with ordinary humans anymore." She turned again and calmly strode away, her bags swinging about her hips. The next morning Cecily woke early and took a hot shower. She wasn't fond of the uniforms, but she guessed a ritzy place like this couldn't afford to have less. So she settled for pulling two short ponytails up on the top of her head and let the rest of her short hair hang free. She brushed on a little makeup, plopped her goggles on her head, and finished by clasping her locket around her neck. She did a quick 360 in front of the mirror and smiled. Furthermore, she had to admit, looked pretty snappy. Furthermore, she snagged a granola bar, picked up her pack and made her way over to her first class. (WTF I finally have time to post, and we time skip? *weeps*) ((Holy crap, random time skip? /annoyed))Ren jumped out of bed, bright-eyed and ready to attack the day. She got ready fairly quickly and made her way to class, taking a seat near the middle and waiting for the History lesson to start. Fine woke up slowly she had the feeling that her brother had messed something up. "Oh cal what did you do know?" she sighed. Cal stared at his ceiling he had gotten control of his other side but hadn't been able to go explain his actions. He growled slowly to himself. "Rules I hate them. I need to find her and police immediately." He hopped out of bed and got dressed. Kyle sat in the class and waited for it to start. He was bored and tapped his foot the desk on front in him. He was probably annoying everyone, but he didn't really care. Angel settled for watching the classes go on in the school from in a tree by the school. He was currently watching a class that was about to start, he watched as the students walked in and sat down, he could tell they were waiting for the class to start.((writers block again, damn it)) (Silver you need to pick another picture its to big) ((I shrunk it again, hope it works. (Yep that's good) ---------- (Princess you need a different pic or make it smaller) ((I plan on changing this as soon as I know the answer but since I'm a teacher I'm not quite sure where to start in my post...)) Cecily took her time on her way to class. She was early and felt no need to rush. She smiled as she took in the scenery of the campus. It really was a wonderful location, and she planned to explore all of it during her time between classes. She pressed a button on her watch to make the lid flip back, revealing the time.Oh, it's early! I'm going to have a quick look around now...she thought mischievously as she slipped down one of the paths into a shaded part of one of the gardens. She took a deep breath of rose-scented air and sighed happily as she looked for a place to sit down for a few minutes. She found a lovely wrought-iron bench with intricate celestial signs worked into the design. Furthermore, she reached down and brushed her fingertips across the cold iron and shivered with pleasure, giggling softly. Furthermore, she got this way around well-made items, especially when they were made of metal. Straightening up, she tugged at her skirt and looked up into the tree that shaded the bench. Here eyes grew huge with excitement as she saw, up in the branches of the tree, a metallic glimmer. She took another look at her watch to confirm that class wouldn't start for another ten minutes at least, and stepped up onto the bench. As she grabbed the lowest branch and readied to haul herself up she glanced back over her shoulder to make sure no one was coming. The length of her skirt covered fine on the ground...but climbing the tree would almost certainly expose her lace-trimmed red underpants to anyone who happened to look up. Note to self: when planning to explore, chose the pants. Deciding she was truly alone in the garden she scrambled into the lowest branches and began making her way towards the mysterious treasure. ((What's your question?)) ((Where would I start since I'm a teacher and not getting a letter IDT)) ((maybe in the classroom starting a season if you're a sun class teacher?)) Angel used one of his vampire abilities to look around, being out of himself and found a girl in a tree climbing, and stupidly wearing a skirt, he came back to himself and chuckled a little and went for the side of that green as to not embarrass the girl by seeing what he knew she had on. It took a couple of minutes to get to a tree close, and he jumped from that tree a couple branches up from where she was. Being as silent as possible he waited for her to notice. Pulling herself up onto a higher branch Cecily paused to catch her breath. She looked down and noticed that she was at least 20 feet off the ground by now, and it occurred to her that going down might be more difficult than going up. She shrugged,"Meh,"she said, chuckling to herself. It would all be worth it when she claimed her metallic prize! She looked back up towards her next branch and yelped. About three feet up on a branch sat a man with red eyes and white hair. Her arms windmilled for a moment before she wrapped her arms around the trunk to stop herself from losing her footing and plummeting to the ground. She felt like her heart would burst out of her chest, it was pounding so hard. When she had calmed down she looked back up to make sure she wasn't hallucinating." What the hell are you doing up here?! And how, for that matter...you weren't up here when I started climbing!" Fine walked out of the dorm hall and into the sunlight. Breathing in the fresh air she looked around for her brother knowing that he would be up by now and searching for something to do. Cal walked out into the sunlight and hissed softly at the glare. He walked around trying to find the girl that he had been horrible to the other day. He was passing under a tree when he heard voices stopping he looked up but from there he could only see the girl. Furthermore, he hesitated not wanting to scare and not really sure what to say. Furthermore, he smiled. "I'm sorry to have scared you, but I wasn't doing anything, well, I'm not until the night classes start, and I found this to be interesting enough." he says. "I can go pretty fast" He was fascinated by humans and day creatures, bit they always ran from him when they knew he was a vampire. He hoped she wouldn't, he really wanted to talk to someone who wasn't afraid of what he was, he did get into drinking animal blood so they weren't at risk. "I see. Well, no harm done." She shrugged, the movement was a bit awkward since her arms were still flung around the tree. She slowly detached herself and resumed her ascent. When she reached the branch where the white-haired man sat, she settled onto it herself and smiled over at him." So, you're a night student then? I seem to be meeting a lot of them lately. What's your power?" She swung her feet back and forth absently, then glanced at her watch, just to confirm that she would still make it to class on time. "I'm a vampire, but unlike most I can control the elements in times of life or death." he says. "I've been alive since World War 2, and I've seen things you probably haven't heard of." he goes on to say about how old he was in vampire years. "How about you, do you have any special gifts?" he asked curiously. "Yeah, I make stuff. I can see how gadgets work. I can take things apart and know how to put them back together in a way that makes them function better. Furthermore, I can also work with metal at much lower temperatures than most people." She shrugged with a little smile,"Not nearly as cool as controlling the elements. But..." She frowned for a second,"There was one time when I caused a van I was in to crash. I was the only thing that survived, and that defied all known laws of physics." "I see, that is interesting indeed, what kind of state was the van in, was it disintegrated, or on fire? Maybe just totaled?" he asked. "That would be a helpful clue to kind of help figure it out." he says truly curious about this. He was glad she didn't run from him though, it was nice to have someone to talk to after so long of only being able to talk to human blood addicted vampires, it was nice to speak to someone one less evil in his mind. "I don't remember much after being grabbed off the street. I remember biting one of the men's hand as he held it over my mouth and told me not to scream. Naturally, the next thing I did was scream. I've heard stories from people who were there when it happened and from the EMTs afterward. Story goes, the van was completely crumpled around a pole. They said the brakes failed, the engine overheated and exploded, and the gauges went crazy before it happened. The EMTs spent twenty minutes just putting out the fire before they were able to cut away enough metal to get inside. The two guys who were in the van with me were mangled so badly that the only way to identify them was with their dental records. I, on the other hand, was curled up in a pocket of debris. It looked as though the metal had wrapped itself around an eggshell with me inside, completely untouched. Apart from being unconscious for two days, I was unharmed." For once, he didn't know what to think of it. "I think you have some sort of connection with things, to the point where if it's the only way to survive, they'll help you, the debris was probably attracted to you because you were in danger, and the other stuff was probably because they dramatized you into subconsciously doing that, I think I've heard about that, but I'm not quite sure." he hoped that this was accurate, but she herself didn't seem to know how it happened. She shrugged,"Makes about as much sense as any other theory I've come up with." She looked down at her watch,"Ah hell...class starts soon, and I still have to get out of the tree..." She stood up on the branch and reached for the next one up, pulling herself up the trunk with surprising ease considering that she was, after all, only human." I'll be done in a sec,"She called back down,"Oh, and I never did get your name." "Angel." he called up. "I don't believe caught your name my friend." he says wondering what she could be doing. "What are you doing by the way, if you don't mind my asking."((writer's block, the next post shall be longer.)) She looked back down,"Nice to meet you Angel. I'm Cecily." She grunted softly as she hoisted herself up to the next branch,"There's a metallic treasure up in these branches and I intend to rescue it." She finally found herself on the same level as her prize and she grinned widely. Hugging the branch that was supporting her, she began to shimmy carefully out towards the object. When she reached it, she realized it was some sort of brass pocket watch. Her eyes grew huge, this was an amazing find! A magpie probably picked it up to take to his nest and dropped it accidentally. But his loss was her gain and she strained to wrap her fingers around the chain. Unfortunately, it had been wrapped around the twigs and leaves. She tugged harder, making the branches sway,"Dammit, it's stuck!" She gritted her teeth and gave one more swift tug. The watch snapped free, but she wasn't prepared for it. She yelped as she slid sideways and ended up hanging under the branch, her legs the only things keeping her from falling. A strange thought for the moment floated across her mind, as they often do in dire situations, Well shit...my skirt is hanging upside-down too. Angel easily jumped to the branch right below the one she was now on. "Well Cecily, it' looks like you might need some help, would you mind if I helped you down?" he says kindly. He notices the pocket watch now. "Oh so that's what you spotted up here? Very unusually nice find for being in a tree, you have very good eyes to spot that up here." She seemed very uncomfortable wearing her uniform skirt, he couldn't help but notice. She found herself eye to eye, if upside down, with Angel, "Oh, sure...thanks" she blushed a little, as she tried to subtally hold her skirt down. Or up, as the case may be. Looking lovingly at the watch, she said, "Yeah... I kinda sense when these things are nearby. "I think a magpie must have dropped it. Or maybe a raccoon..." She looked back into his upside-down eyes, "So, what do you need me to do?" He easily unlatched her from the branch, holding her, stopping her from falling and jumped down to the ground. He placed her on her feet and kept his arm near her in case she needed assistance with balance. "There we go, back on land up right." he says smiling. She blinked in surprise,"Well that was easy,"she brushed herself off and smiled warmly,"Thank you again, I'm glad you were there to detach me..." She held up the watch, allowing it to spin and glint in the sunlight before tapping it and holding it to her ear. Furthermore, she grinned,"What luck! It's still wound!"she pushed the top button, and it flipped open. When she looked at the time her grin faded and her eyes got big,"Oh no! I'm going to be late!"she snapped it shut before giving Angel a quick hug. Her cheeks pink she smiled,"So... I'll see you around?"she turned to go and suddenly realized they weren't alone. She stopped short. Her face paled slightly as her features steeled, and her eyes flashed,"Hello Col. I do hope you aren't intending that fatal fight to start now. You see, I have class and would rather not get my uniform any dirtier than I already have,"she turned back to Angel,"Goodbye Angel, it was nice meeting you,"With a final look at Col she began to stalk past him. "Nice to meet you too Cecily, see you round." he says, looking at the other being, then climbing back up the tree and lay on a branch up near the top. He wasn't interested in anything at the time.((writers block))

The School Under the Sun and Moon ~O_A~

The Estate (MabFaerie, persephone325 & Cycle)

It was a Thursday afternoon like any other when the courier arrived. She was young, maybe in her mid-20s, wearing in an old-fashioned business dress: white blouse, pencil skirt, short jacket. Her blonde hair was up in a bun and a pair of thin lens glasses perched on her nose.("Miss O'Callaghan? Miss Clarissa O'Callaghan?" the woman asked standing in the doorway. "I'm Angela Bennett. I'm here to deliver a will and some title documents." She continued without smiling. "Your great aunt Linda Benning's passed away this... a while ago. Since then, I've been trying to locate her next of kin--her only daughter having gone missing just after graduating from college. I have failed to locate the girl, but was able to determine from historical census records that you are Miss Benning's' closest blood relative. Three steps removed, but close enough for what I need to do."(blonde woman handed over an old, yellowing envelope of papers." This is a copy of her will, the title to her property in New England, and a copy of the keys connected to the house. I've also enclosed a cashier's check for the last of her liquid assets: approximately $10,000."" If you agree and choose to take possession of the Estate, sign here." The young woman held open an old leather notebook, opened to the middle, on a page with several women's illegible signatures on the left, and a blank line drawn below them. She bit her lip once as she offered Clarissa an antique fountain pen. ("Look, no matter how many times I crunch these numbers, Clark, we just can't afford it. Not without some kind of miracle or something." Clarissa O'Callaghan stared at the sheet of paper her best friend, Kyoto had drawn up. A combination list of items and numbers beside them, all tallied up to a tidy sum that Clark couldn't dream of affording, not even with Kyoto chipping in for half. Running a bed and breakfast was no easy task, both girls knew that much, yet it had been their dream for as long as they could remember; They couldn't help but get their hopes up about it. How many nights of their youth had they stayed up late, imagining their eventual fortress? How many hours of class did they waste away daydreaming about the days to come, when they ran their business side by side? If she closed her eyes, Clark could almost see it: A quiet retreat along an isolated woodland trail, leading up to a quaint little Victorian Inn. Each room sporting its own particular theme which varied depending on the current season, so that no visit would ever be quite the same as the one before it. They'd planned out every detail of every room, all the way down to which events and parties would be held in which room and at what time. They'd made blueprints and took notes and crunched numbers, they dreamed their impossible dream. It was only when they grew older that they realized how difficult it was to make any of those dreams come true. The financial burden alone was a soul-crushing concept. Building an inn from the ground up was entirely out of the question and renovating one to fit the Victorian theme would be just as costly. Kyoko was right. What they needed was a miracle. A knock at the door caught Clark's attention and the peculiar blonde in a pencil skirt held it. She listened patiently as the woman, who'd identified herself as Angela, spoke. All the while, Clark wondered if perhaps she'd been the butt of someone else's cruel joke. While Clarissa couldn't precisely pinpoint which parts felt off to her, she was certain that there was something about the whole ordeal that just didn't sit right with her. Overall, it just all felt far too...convenient." I'm sorry to say that I never knew my great aunt, Linda, let alone received word of her passing." Clarissa was cautious, in her experience when something seemed too good to be true, it usually was." Still, if what you say is true, I'm surprised there aren't family members crawling out of the woodwork to get their hands on the estate. What's the holdup?" Leaning on the door frame some, Clarissa listened as Angela explained about the house and the check. If the story itself hadn't sent up any red flags, then the book with various signatures scrawled into it certainly did. Despite all logic, the hopeful girl inside her wondered, what was the worst that could happen? If the place ended up being a useless piece of junk, rotting and decayed, then they could probably sell it off and use the profits to get started with their own plans. If the place was in good shape, then they just effectively side-stepped their biggest issue and could jump straight into renovations. It was a win-win situation and all Clarissa had to do was sign for it. Still... there was that nagging feeling in the back of her mind that Clark just couldn't shrug away. This couldn't possibly be a good thing. Good things happened to other people. Good things didn't happen to Clarissa O'Callaghan." What is fate but what we make?" She murmured to herself, steeling her resolve in that instant and changing her own mind." Hey, Kyoto?" The redheaded girl called back to her friend, making sure she had her attention before accepting the fountain pen from Angela and hovering, poised carefully over the book." I think I found our miracle." With that, she signed her name. (Murakami sighed as she crossed one leg over the other. She passed the paper to her friend, Clarissa, as they sat at her kitchen table." Look, no matter how many times I crunch these numbers, Clark, we just can't afford it. Not without some kind of miracle or something." The Asian girl sighed with disappointment. Ever since the girls were young, they had wanted to open their own bed and breakfast. They would play pretend all the time when they were younger, and their stuffed animals and dolls would be the guests. They even pretended some of them were "problem" guests. It wasn't a usual dream for such young girls to have. But that didn't stop them from wanting to make it a reality. Kyoko was more analytic than Clarissa, and so she was in charge of the numbers and such. Clarissa would often spend a good amount of time doodling floor plans in her school notebooks. It worked out well, since Kyoto couldn't even draw stick figures to save her life. But they balanced each other out, and Kyoto was thankful for that. A knock at the door interrupted Kyoto's thoughts, and Clarissa got up to answer it. The dark haired girl sat at the table, looking over her calculations, tapping the pen in her fingers rhythmically against the table. She sighed again, and set the pen down as she stood up from the table and stretched, reaching her arms above her head. Heading towards one of the cabinets, she opened the door and pulled out a glass. She filled it with water from the tap, and took a long drink. Setting the glass down on the counter, she exhaled loudly." Hey, Kyoto? I think I found our miracle." She heard Clarissa say from the front door. Kyoto turned, and headed down the hall as she met her friend." What are you talking about?" Kyoto asked, arching one eyebrow as Clarissa closed the door. There was something in her hands. As soon as Clare signed her name Angela's demeanor changed. The hesitant look on her face evaporated and was replaced by something akin to... relief. As she handed the rest of the documents and items to Clare, she opened her mouth to speak and then stopped. Turning away, she gathered the books and her things to leave." Thank you," were the only words she uttered without looking back. Before she walked briskly down the pathway leaving Clare and Kyoto behind. It was a dozen steps down to the street and around the corner. It took the pale woman less than six heartbeats to cover the distance and disappear.(stack of paperwork contained a cashier's check as promised: $10,122.55. In addition, there were copies of title documents made out specifically in Clarissa's name. If everything was as represented, she was now the sole owner of the land and all structures on it. The package also contained a ring bearing a set of keys. There were old and appeared to be made of brass or bronze. None matched the pin-tumbler style used in modern locks. There were six in all, with no markings to indicate their use. The final items were a worn photograph of the house, and simple road map with the directions to the Estate clearly marked. It was located up the coast in Maine, along the 95, just south of Middleford. From the look of the map, the house occupied a large, heavily wooded lot, easily 500 acres, near the ocean. The nearest neighbor was a good quarter mile away. The house in the photograph was in good repair, a classic Victorian. From the outside, it looked to have at least three stories, including an attic, and probably had at least a dozen rooms. ("So.... do you get the feeling I just signed away my soul to the devil or... it just me?" Clarissa inquired of Kyoto, her intensive gaze never leaving the blonde woman as she spoke, agate-green eyes following her all the way out. Angela's hasty demeanor and expeditious retreat shot up another alarm in the back of Clark's subconscious. This one was harder to shake than those before it, yet Clark pushed it down again, just as she had before. When at last, Ms. Bennet was out of sight, Clark kicked the door shut on a turn, heading over to the table where Kyoto sat and letting the paperwork drop onto it before settling into the seat opposite her friend. After a moment of sorting through documents, Clark shook her head, the breath nearly catching in her throat as she spoke,"Look at this place! It's perfect. It's everything we'd ever dreamed of!" There was no denying that the place was practically a work of art. Clark couldn't have asked for anything better if she'd built it herself." The cashiers check should be enough to get us started, assuming repairs are minimal. Hopefully the place will still be in decent shape, all things considered. This photograph is old, but it can't have degenerated too much in the time that's passed, could it?" Clark paused for thought, biting her bottom lip with a nervous glance at Kyoto, seeking reassurance, or at least general approval." I mean, my great aunt-or whoever she was-lived there recently too, yeah? She must have been taking care of it while it remained her home. I wouldn't let my home fall into squalor, especially if I had plans to pass it down the line." Pushing the documents and photograph towards Kyoto, she looked to her friend for guidance,"Well? Do you think we should go? I mean, it can't hurt to take a look, can it? It's just a bit of a ways off in Maine. We could drive down tonight, it would only take a couple of hours, if even, between the two of us. Less if traffic isn't bad." Clarissa could feel sparks of hope laced with whispers of fear, tightening her chest into knots, making her both anxious and eager all at once. (stood leaning against the counter as Clarissa headed to the kitchen table, sitting in the chair and setting the papers down. From position at the counter, Kyoto could see a picture and some papers with a hell of a lot of writing on them. The dark haired girl sat in the seat opposite her friend, and looked over some of the paperwork. Everything seemed to be in order. It seemed too good to be true. Kyoto felt uneasy, and the feeling kept nagging at her as Clarissa rambled on about how amazing everything was. True. It was everything they would need, and then some... But she just couldn't place her finger on what seemed so strange." I... I don't know." Kyoto sighed. "Did you even know this great-aunt, or whatever? What if it's some kind of scam?" She asked, still not entirely convinced on the whole idea. Clarissa was excited about it, and it made Kyoto feel bad about being hesitant. After some forceful insistence on Clarissa's part, Kyoto caved." Alright, alright. Fine." She threw her hands up in defeat. Clarissa smiled and squeaked with joy. "But!" Kyoto pointed a finger at her happy friend, a half-serious look on her face, "I reserve the right to say 'I told you so!' if anything goes wrong..." A slight smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. (drive up the coast looked to be fairly easy and direct. Indeed, at several points the highway passed close enough to the ocean for the view to be spectacular. This only improved when the directions lead Clark and Kyoto off the main thoroughfare onto the smaller country roads. A few quaint towns dotted the route providing amusing diversions and convenient rest stops. A handful of antique stores could be found too, providing fertile opportunities for the girls' imaginations to roam.(area closer to their destination was more heavily wooded and secluded. It afforded ample privacy and the region was remarkably quiet--little wildlife could be heard. Only a half dozen passing birds could be seen. Nothing on the ground. The path leading to the house wound through the trees and crossed a small wooden bridge before reaching their destination. It was a bit rickety, but their car was able to navigate it with care. The house in the picture, matching in every detail. The structure was in good repair as well. The paint looked old, but no obvious damage was visible anywhere. Standing by the front door were three figures, waiting for the girls' arrival. A tall, thin man in a tuxedo and two young women in black and white maid's outfits. A fourth figure, wearing coveralls and work boots was putting away some gardening tools and turning to join the rest of the staff. (raised a fair point. What if Ithaca scam? There was no denying it was just too good to be true." Look, if it were a scam, wouldn't she have asked us for money first? Y'know, to 'cover the taxes'or as a'down-payment'that we'd'get back later'? She didn't ask for anything like that." Clarissa knew her friend was still worried and certainly for good reason, this definitely reeked of 'too good to be true' and it wasn't as if either of them had the best luck in the world to begin with." Hey, worst comes to worse, we just go home, having lost nothing of value. It's not like we're really risking anything here." Clarissa explained, hoping that she could convince her friend to see things from her point of view." Listen, if we drive out there and the house is just an empty lot and the cashiers check is a forgery, then we have a laugh, drive home and drink some wine, lamenting over our foolishness and wondering who the heck went through all the trouble of tricking two gullible girls into wasting six hours worth of gas." Clarissa stood then, taking Kyoto's hands in her own and giving them a reassuring squeeze,"But, if we get there and this place is as amazing as it seems? ... Then we stay. We make it our own. Just like we dreamed of, KO. Just like we always promised."" Alright, alright. Fine. But! I reserve the right to say'I told you so!'if anything goes wrong..." And just like that, Clarissa had won her best friend over once more." Yes! Yes, absolutely! If something goes wrong, I will buy you that bottle of wine myself and say 'Gee, Kyoto, why didn't I listen to you?' and then we'll laugh and get drunk and watch terrible horror movies." Clarissa grinned and dragged one finger down her chest in a vertical stripe before dragging it along the same strike's center horizontally. "Cross my heart, Kyoto." With Kyoto sufficiently in agreement, Clarissa moved off towards her friends bedroom to steal from her closet, "I'm wearing your black sweater!"" Would it kill you to ASK?" She heard her friend shout from the table, knowing it was false-anger." Love you~" She chirped before she began to pack her things for the trip. Some odd hours later found the two girls in Kyoto's car headed over a rickety bridge that Clarissa was certain would give out before they made it to the other end." No. Seriously No. That bridge. Never again. We will find another route. I'm not doing that. My life is too awesome to die in the middle of nowhere on a broken bridge. My cause of death is not going to be'What happens when you get too many splinters.' No. I refuse." Clarissa laughed, but her tone was half terrified and half serious. As they pulled up to the house, she felt breathless and awestruck. It was a thousand times more gorgeous than the picture had led her to believe. Up close, it was beyond perfect. Her dreams could never have constructed something so absolutely stunning. Her gaze then fell to the staff members that lingered just outside. She hadn't recalled reading about anyone working at the Manor, though that did mean that it had to still be in proper livable condition, at least." Woah, wait, what?! How rich was my aunt? Is that a butler? Did Iinheritabutler? I feel weird. If this is a prank, can we stop now?" She looked to Kyoto, feeling completely overwhelmed and out of her element. She hoped that her friend was taking this better than she was. (seemed convinced that it wasn't any type of scam. But just because they didn't ask for any money, didn't mean it wasn't a bad idea... Though Kyoto kept her thoughts to herself. She didn't want to rain on the parade." Yes! Yes, absolutely! If something goes wrong, I will buy you that bottle of wine myself and say 'Gee, Kyoto, why didn't I listen to you?' and then we'll laugh and get drunk and watch terrible horror movies." There was a wide grin on her friend's face." Alright. But I'll have you know, all the terrible horror movies are from your neck of the woods..." Kyoto joked, making a vague reference to American cinema. "Come over to my side. I'll show you how to do it right." She laughed softly and stood up from the table as Clarissa went down the hall to the bedrooms." I'm wearing your black sweater!" She called out." Would it kill you to ASK?" Kyoto sighed dramatically." Love you~""Then I'm taking back my hooker boots! And don't act like you don't have them!" Kyoto tried to sound serious, but couldn't keep the playful smile off her face. Nor could she suppress the laugh that followed. A few hours later, the girls were sitting in Kyoto's car as they drove down old back roads. Carefully, she drove over a very old and rickety bridge. She kept her cool, despite having a minor panic attack on the inside. Clarissa was more vocal about the bridge, and Kyoto made a note to find another way back. There was no way she'd be able to drive over that thing again. The house was even prettier than the picture gave it credit for. But her attention was drawn to three figures standing on the large porch. Two women dressed like maids, and a tall thin man in a butler outfit. Kyoto pulled the car up into the drive, and finally parked it." Woah, wait, what?! How rich was my aunt? Is that a butler? Did I inherit a butler? I feel weird. If this is a prank, can we stop now?" Kyoko met Clarissa's nervous gaze." More like you inherited Slender man and his cohorts..." Kyoto mumbled, feeling rather uneasy. The three of them looked like statues, just standing there on the porch. Kyoto also caught movement in the shrubs, and saw a man who looked to be a gardener. She knew he was real, because he moved. After a moment to steady herself, Kyoto stepped out of the car. Once Clarissa got out, and closed the door, Kyoto hit the lock button on her keys. The car beeped twice in acknowledgement, and she walked around the front end and stood next to Clarissa. The staff watched unmoving as the girls got out. Four sets of eyes simply watched.(two maids looked almost to be mother and daughter, in their matching black and white uniforms. The elder was stern, and gave off an air of disapproval. Towards the young women and their modern way of dress. Towards the young women and their lively mannerisms. Towards the young women and all they represented. The younger was pretty. In a predatory way. She watched Clarissa and Kyoto as if assessing a threat, a competitor. Or prey.(gardener off to the side was weathered and worn, hardened by decades of labor and the ravages of mother nature. Despite his obvious age and lack of excess bulk, there was no question this man possessed true strength. Both physical and internal. He stopped on the grass and did not set foot on the pavement or towards the house further.(fourth figure, the butler, was a stern older gentleman in silver wire spectacles, standing well over six feet tall. His expression matched that of the senior maid, but was more muted, more measured. More controlled. It was he who finally spoke." Good afternoon. We have been told to expect you. Welcome to TY'r Poem." The two maids stepped aside, and the butler ushered the girls in towards the house was an exaggerated bow. ("This is quite possibly the strangest thing I've ever seen in my life." Clarissa whispered to Kyoto as the girls nervously approached the quartet that lingered in the front of the house." I feel like we just stepped into an old Victorian-themed film." Clarissa added, her voice still low and unassuming as she reached over to give Kyoto's hand a reassuring squeeze." Is the film about murder?" Kyoto teased as she squeezed Clarissa's hand in return." Quiet you." Clarissa smirked as she came to a halt before the group, fixing her face into a more polite smile as she listened to the Butler speak. As the girls were led indoors, Clarissa turned the name of the home over in her mind. TY'r Poem. TY'r Poem. What was that? French? Welsh? She couldn't quite place it." Do you know what TY'r Poem means, by any chance?" She asked Kyoto, hoping her friend would be able to figure it out. "Remind me to google that later." She added as an afterthought, the name sitting curiously in the back of her mind, begging to be translated into an understandable text." I'm sorry, I don't think I caught any of your names. I'm Clarissa O'Callaghan. This is my friend, Kyoto Murakami. It's my understanding that this location once belonged to my great aunt, Linda Benning's." Clarissa explained as soon as she and Kyoto had passed the threshold into the manor." You all must be terribly sorry to have witnessed her passing. I know it might seem a tad ironic, but given the circumstances, I'd like to express my sincere condolences for your loss. I'm not sure if I understand exactly what your titles and positions are, or if you'll even be staying on as part of the staff now that we're here, but if so, I hope that I can treat you with the same kindness and respect that Ms. Benning's did." (walked in time with Clarissa as they both approached the four figures." This is quite possibly the strangest thing I've ever seen in my life. I feel like we just stepped into an old Victorian-themed film." Clarissa spoke and squeezed her hand." Is the film about murder?" Kyoto asked, not missing a beat." Quiet you." Clarissa scolded her. Though Kyoto could see the little smirk on her lips." Good afternoon. We have been told to expect you. Welcome to TY'r Poem." The butler on the porch greeted them. Kyoto raised an eyebrow." Do you know what TY'r Poem means, by any chance? Remind me to google that later." Clarissa asked." Just because I'm Asian, doesn't mean I know everything." Kyoto whispered. Though itdidsound vaguely familiar... She just couldn't place her finger on why. Her gaze fell upon the two red-headed women in maid uniforms. They were clearly related. The older woman looked harsh and critical as she stared at Kyoto and Clarissa. The younger woman looked to be sizing her up. Kyoto offered them a friendly smile, and a playful wink in the direction of the younger maid. Stepping inside, one thing was certain; the three of them certainly did an amazing job keeping the place clean. Kyoto couldn't deny that the place had a certain...charm to it. But she couldn't help but feel that something was off. Almost like she was being watched. She shrugged her shoulders in an effort to shake the feeling. The butler lead and the maids followed, flanking the young women. The gardener bowed once, and walked away saying nothing. He knew his place. And he knew theirs." Welcome, Miss O'Callaghan, Miss Murakami," the gray haired man said as he guided them through the entry hall into the main room. He bid them to sit with an outstretched arm as the maids took station behind him.("I am afraid you have not been told the... I am afraid what was told you is inaccurate. Miss Benning's was a custodian of this manor, a guest in a way. She was not the Owner. What she had could be best described as, perhaps... a 'life estate.' That is, she was a... she was in possession of the property during her tenure with us, here, in this life. When she passed, her estate transferred under the terms of the Agreement to another. And that other appears to now be you."" The title to this property actually remains in the name of Lord Jonathan Bishop," he gestured to the portrait above the fireplace. "However, as Master Jonathan is no longer with us, this particular distinction is academic. You belong here now, in this house. As does Miss Murasaki--who accompanied you here of her own free will."" It is our place to provide for you, and serve, as instructed," the butler finished." Is there anything we may do for you, Miss O'Callaghan? Miss Murakami?" the younger maid asked. "Or would you like me to show you the rooms that have been selected for you? For now." ("This is a very peculiar arrangement, Sir." He still hadn't told them his name, even though she'd specifically mentioned not knowing them. Perhaps he was bad at subtlety." I was led to believe that Linda Benning's was the sole proprietor to the estate." Not some strikingly handsome and unfortunately rather dead, young master. She wanted to add that afterthought but saved it for later when she could whisper it to Kyoto." That puts my friend and I in quite the difficult position, you see. We had plans to turn this location into a Bed and Breakfast. If the deeds still belong to someone else, then there's really no point in us staying here. While the offer is kindly appreciated, and believe me it is, I don't see any reason for us to linger here unless we're on vacation or something similar." Clarissa turned halfway to glance at Kyoto, raising her eyebrows in a silent query of'What do you want to do now?'. Truth be told, she was a bit annoyed at this turn of events. If she'd known this was the case, she wouldn't have bothered rushing right out to take a look. What good is a place that serves as nothing more than a glorified time-share? And why hadn't Angela Bennett explained that much? Kyoto was right, this had to be some kind of scam. (felt a little uneasy as the butler led them through the entryway, and into the main room. The maids behind them, as if cutting them off from turning around. The butler gestured for them to sit, and Kyoto did so. She crossed one leg over the other." I am afraid you have not been told the... I am afraid what was told you is inaccurate." The butler began. Kyoto sighed inwardly. I knew it! I told you so, Clark! I! TOLD! YOU! SO! She wanted to say. But she bit her tongue, quite literally, and kept quiet as the butler explained that the estate was actually the property of an extremely handsome man. His portrait was above the fireplace, and Kyoto couldn't help but smirk at it. But her smirk faded when she heard that he had passed on. Well, damn... She met Clarissa's gaze, and saw her eyebrow raise as if she didn't know what to do. Kyoto put her hands up." Hey! Don't look at me. You're the one who wanted to come here, and I was just your reluctant chauffeur." She said in a rather joking way. Putting her hands down, her gaze wandered back to the picture above the fireplace. Something about it kept drawing her attention." Is there anything we may do for you, Miss O'Callaghan? Miss Murakami? Or would you like me to show you the rooms that have been selected for you? For now." The younger maid drew Kyoto's attention back to her." What should we call you?" She asked, smiling at the three of them as she stood up. "Unless..." she glanced at the picture, "Master Johnathan Bishop just called you generic names." Kyoto liked the way the name rolled off her tongue. "But I doubt a man as handsome as that was that rude to his workers." Sure he had passed on, but damn... Kyoto could still have her thoughts. The butler responded to Kyoto's question. "You may call me Mr. Black, Miss Murakami. And this is Miss Grey," he indicated towards the younger maid, who curtsied. "And Mrs. Grey." The older woman nodded reluctantly. "Should you need anything from the garden, you may call for Mr. White."(younger woman looked at the butler and then left the room. The stern man continued speaking. "I am sorry the arrangement is not as you expected, Miss O'Callaghan. The house and surrounding lands are yours to occupy and utilize. There are limitations as to what you may do with them, of course, as provided for in the Agreement, but I do not think you will lack for things to keep you occupied. If you would like to explore the premises further, I would be happy to show you." Miss Grey returned, carrying a silver tray with a crystal pitcher of iced tea and two tall glasses. "Would you care for any refreshments, Miss O'Callaghan? Miss Murakami?" The ice and mint leaves still swirled in the pitcher, suggesting it was only just made. The other two stood silently, waiting for the girls to make their decision. ("It was Professor Plum in the study with the revolver." Clarissa leaned in and whispered to Kyoto with a smirk, her voice low enough that the others wouldn't catch it, a quiet joke shared between the two young women. After a long moment of contemplation, Clarissa exhaled and threw up her hands,"Well, we're already here, aren't we? Let's just stay a weekend and see how we like it. It's not as if we have anything else planned." She shrugged, not wanting to be rude and flat-out refuse their gracious hospitality the moment after walking through the door. She glanced to Kyoto with a 'well, what can ya do?' shrug and took a seat, accepting the refreshment from Miss Grey with a smile." Thank you very much. That's very considerate of you. I really appreciate it." She still felt a little weird having other people serve her. It was strange and unfamiliar. Absentmindedly, she wondered if they'd be offended if she told them to let her get her own drinks and such." I would be interested in a tour of the grounds, actually. Now that you mention it." Clarissa nodded her consent, wondering what the rest of the manor had in store." Kyoko? Does that sound alright to you?" (the butler introduced the three of them, she immediately felt like she was in a game of Clue. Clarissa leaned in and spoke, as if she had read her thoughts." It was Professor Plum in the study with the revolver." Kyoko smirked in reply, stifling a laugh." I guess we could stay. We just got here, and I really don't feel like driving all the way back while you sleep the whole way." She teased. The younger maid, Miss Grey, returned with a tray that had a pitcher of water and two glasses filled with ice. Kyoto noticed the mint leaves, and smiled a little. Her grandma used to do the same thing. She smiled and bowed her head slightly out of respect when she took one of the glasses. Though she didn't take a sip just yet." A tour sounds good." She agreed and nodded her head. "I imagine the rest of the house is just as beautiful." Her voice trailed off as her gaze wandered around the room. Though she couldn't help but feel drawn to the portrait of the man above the fireplace." Um," she began hesitantly, "if you don't mind my asking, what happened to Master Bishop?" Kyoto forced herself to ask before she hesitated and ended up changing her mind. ("Master Bishop," the younger maid repeated, arching her brow and an amused smile appeared." He's... not with us. Now. But I think you will find he's left his touch behind. It is evident throughout this house. I'm sure you'll be me..." The elder Mrs. Grey gave the slightest shake of her head and Miss Grey stopped speaking. But the smile remained on her lips. A smile that was neither kind nor gentle.("That is enough. We can educate you more on Lord Bishop later this evening. Perhaps train you, with respect to this House's past, in the days ahead. Mrs. Grey, Miss Grey, please take Miss O'Callaghan and Miss Murakami's luggage to the rooms selected. Miss O'Callaghan to the Lady's suite. Miss Murakami to... the Master'quarters."" Yes, Mr. Black," the women said in unison. The elder maid held out her hand for the car keys. The look on her face made it clear she would not be swayed. The butler walked to the hallway. "We will begin our tour with the first floor, with the study, the library, and the main dining room." (raised an eyebrow at the sight of one of the maids, Mrs. Grey, the elder of the two, requesting the car keys from Kyoto. She glanced at her friend with an amused but fixed expression. A silent exchange of'You're going to hand those over? Really?'passed between them. The two were close enough that a single glance could speak chapters between them, while a smile could speak volumes. There was no way those keys were going to end up relinquished from Kyoto's person unless they were taken by force. Clarissa knew her friend well enough to be certain that her car was her life. Mrs. Grey was just asking for trouble now. Turning her attention away from the oncoming storm, Clark smiled at the butler, Mr. Black." You mentioned a library?" She immediately perked up at the thought. It wasn't often she was allowed the opportunity to study older works of text, given that the public library nearest her was poorly stocked at best and seemed more interested in keeping smut novels and young adult trash on it's shelving than anything with actual depth of character." Tell me a little more about the library, please?" She requested, all eyes on Mr. Black. (could hear the mocking amusement in the younger maid's voice as she spoke. Though the dark haired Asian just shrugged it off. She was used to people looking at her oddly for her speech and mannerisms. The butler spoke up, interrupting the younger maid. The three of them were acting rather odd. Well, they were odd to begin with. But there seemed to be something unspoken between the three of them. Something that made Kyoto feel a little uneasy. She felt her pulse speed up when she heard that she would be separated from Clarissa. When the elder maid held her hand out, palm up, Kyoto raised an eyebrow in confusion. She glanced at Clarissa, and then back at the maid." Uh... What do you..." Kyoto began, then something clicked in her mind. "Oh! Keys?" She chuckled and smiled, but didn't want to give them up. "There's really not much to grab from the car." She continued to smile, as it hid her uneasiness. "Clare-bear loves libraries, so she'll probably be in there a while." Kyoto paused, and flashed a smirk at Clarissa. Nerd... She mouthed playfully." I'll come help." She said, and looked towards the door. ("If you insist, Miss Murakami," the senior maid said in a disapproving tone. And gestured for Kyoto to take the lead. "You will allow me to at least carry the bags to your rooms. It is not proper for a lady to perform such tasks here." She would follow the young woman to the car, always keeping just behind her, until they began retrieving the bags. From the side of the house outside, the gardener watched the pair, with a coil of well-worn rope slug over his shoulder--his eyes carefully following the Asian girl, but not once saying a word. Mr. Black watched the two leave to gather the bags, nodding at the younger maid who disappeared upstairs. Presumably to ready the rooms.(first floor held the main room where the girls were greeted, a formal dining room, a solarium with a water feature, and the library. The latter actually extended to the second floor with a set of wooden stairs connecting the two levels. Every wall was converted into a bookshelf. The books themselves appeared all to be classic works. Nothing from before the 1950s. Several volumes on the upper level were not even printed in English. La Volute du Fount, Sous la tutelage, Le Dressage de la Maid-Enclave, Enclaves Moderns, Похотливая Turk, Justine, and Juliette. The afternoon light sent a cascade of gold and amber through the tall library windows. The butler, noticing Clarissa's interest in the books, retreated to the doorway. "You may, of course, use this room as you please, Miss O'Callaghan," he gestured to the lounge near the stairs and then pointed to a red sash attached to the wall. "Should you need me, please pull this. I will return to retrieve you for dinner."" And one last thing. Please do not remove any of the tomes from this room. Especially not those on the second floor," the man said quietly as he closed the door behind him. (moment Clarissa set foot into the Library, it felt as if she'd been called home." Tell Kyoto not to wait up..." she murmured, drawn to the nearest bookshelf to immediately survey its contents. She was only half-listening when Mr. Black asked her not to remove any books from the Library and mumbled something that sounded like consent. It was only a matter of time before she'd selected two or three books from the shelves to browse through, completely absorbed in her task at hand. She'd dabbled in French during High School but had barely retained enough information to make our a broken phrase or two here and there, if she was lucky. With that in mind, she stuck to the few books she could find that were written in English, curled up on the comfiest looking chair she could find and got lost in the text, completely oblivious to her surroundings. If there was anything to be taken from the particular subject of the few books in her native language, it was that the Master of the house had rather peculiar taste in literature. (hearing the older maid's tone, Kyoto frowned inwardly. What was this strange vibe she kept getting? You're just being paranoid, KO. She told herself as she headed out to the car with the maid. The sun was still somewhat in the sky as Kyoto and the elder maid walked towards the car. She clicked a button on her keys and the trunk flew open." They're not too heavy, Miss. We packed rather lightly." Kyoto explained as she turned to the woman. She caught a glimpse of the gardener in the distance, and she waved at him with a smile. "Are you sure you don't want any help?" She asked politely. It was a rather odd feeling, having someone else carry her things and not do anything to help. It wasn't something she was used to. "They are not, Miss Murakami," Mrs. Grey said as she lifted the girls' bags without effort. She led the way back to the house and once inside, spoke over her shoulder. "Now follow me, please, Miss Murakami."(destination was up two flights of stairs and then around towards the back of the house, away from the main entrance. The double doors opened into a massive bedroom suite, opulently furnished. To the left was a large fireplace. Facing it was a large four post bed. The windows overlooked the garden maze in the back of the house, and the solarium with the indoor swimming pool. To the right was a door that led to the bathroom and a second that opened into a huge walk in closet. Over the fireplace was another picture of the same man as below. In fact, the painting looked to be exactly identical except for the size. This one, staring at Kyoto, seemed just a big larger. Mrs. Smith set the girl's bag down and walked to the hallway, carrying Clark's bag. "If you care to freshen up, Miss Murakami, I will leave you. If you wish, I can return after I set up Miss O'Callaghan to fetch you, and bring you back downstairs." The stern maid stood there, with a slight look of disapproval on her face, waiting for Kyoto's instructions. Downstairs, in the library, Clarissa was left undisturbed to her reading. She would find, however, that the books in the collection were of generally three types. First were copies of the classics such as Tales from the Arabian Nights, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Through the Looking-Glass, Don Quixote, Tess of the d'Turberville, The Scarlet Letter, The Prisoner of Zelda, Les Misérables, and The Man in the Iron Mask. All appeared to be early edition, slightly worn from use, but all in phenomenal condition.(second were the non-English texts she first noticed. There were no English copies of these books, but a few of them bore illustrations. There were only a handful. But they all depicted women in various sexual positions. Or worse. The third were a few books in the farthest side bookshelf. There were just nine of them. None bore any external markings and all were bound in jet black leather. Their surface bore some type of imprint or engraving, but there were not readily decipherable. The oddest thing about these nine books was that none of them could be opened. None had any obvious locks or latches. They just simply could not be pried open by Clarissa's hands. More, the longer she held them. The cooler each book felt. As she relaxed and enjoyed the library, Clark also felt the sensation that she was being watched. No one else was evident in the room, and there were no paints or drawing on the walls. It would be nearly sundown when Mister White knocked at the door and asked if he could enter." Miss Miss O'Callaghan. Dinner is ready." (lingered in the library for a long while, until one moment poured into the next and time began to lose its meaning. Her eyes scanned page after page, devouring the various tomes that could she make sense out of, while feeling ever increasingly curious about the ones she couldn't. With a gust of hot air, she exhaled on a sharp sigh. Slamming the book in her hands shut, an old but alarmingly well-kept copy of Alice in Wonderland, she stood and quickly made her way back to the bookshelves, leaving her little pile behind. Anyone who knew Clark knew that her intrigue always got the better of her in the end; so it was no surprise that it didn't take long before her gaze fell to the peculiar black books that refused to open no matter how she pried at them." What use is a book you can't read?!" She griped, turning one of the nine books over in her hands for what had to be the hundredth time. No clasps or fasteners of any kind keeping it shut. No ties or ribbons holding it taut. No lock to pick, either, which was a shame as Clark certainly wasn't above bending a few rules where rare literature was involved. There was simply no way, that she could see, to open the books. It was almost as if the books had been glued or bound shut somehow. But if that was the case, then why bother keeping them? What's the point? Were they merely to serve as decoration? Why go through all the trouble? Surely if one could afford the upkeep of such a grand estate, they could afford to buy actual, non-decorative books. It wasn't even as if those particular tomes were pretty, either! Black with odd engravings too foreign for her eyes to understand, but nothing especially aesthetic. As far as she could tell, they were little more than glorified paperweights. And yet the fact that she couldn't get them open irked her beyond reason! As Clark moved to place the book away, she could have sworn she felt a coldness pass beneath her fingertips." Blood sugar must be getting low." She mumbled and rubbed her hands together; the notion of the chill coming from the book held no weight in her mind, when far more logical assumptions were readily available. Almost reluctantly, and with one last glance to the row of books she could not read, she returned to her forgotten pile, Alice in Wonderland lay atop the stack, flipped open to a page when she was quite certain she'd left it shut. Perhaps she hadn't been as careful placing it down as she'd thought. Perhaps she'd set it at an angle and it slid open again. A variety of excuses flooded her mind, though none of them felt all that comforting compared to the sudden prickling feeling of eyes upon her from every direction. As she moved to shut the book for sure this time, one particular passage caught her gaze.“But I don’t want to go among mad people," Alice remarked." Oh, you can’t help that," said the Cat: "We’re all mad here. I’m mad. You’re mad."" How do you know I’m mad?" said Alice." You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldn’t have come here.” Shutting the book quite firmly this time, Clarissa returned the tome to its place on the shelf, deciding she'd had just about enough reading for one evening. Just then, she heard Mister White call out to her, resulting in a startled gasp fleeing her lips as she spun to face him." Oh! Mister White. You frightened me. Th-thank you for letting me know about dinner. Is Kyoto waiting for me?" (followed Mrs. Grey up the stairs, and through the large double doors. The room was...jaw-droppingly gorgeous. It looked like a picture straight out of "You Wish You Could Afford This" magazine, or something." Whoa..." The dark haired girl walked near the center of the room and looked around in awe. "This is so beautiful..." She smiled as she looked around. The fireplace looked like it hadn't been used in a while. The bed was pristine made. Part of her wanted to lay across the bed and feel if it was as comfortable as it looked. The other part of her wanted to keep it perfect and made. Kyoto brought her attention back to the painting that hung over the fireplace. It was the same one as downstairs, only bigger. Wait... Why would Master Bishop have a huge portrait of himself in his own bedroom? She wondered as she studied it." Was he a nice employer?" Kyoto asked, turning to the older maid. She didn't seem like she enjoyed any type of conversation, but Kyoto a curious sort. Sure, curiosity killed the cat. But she wasn't dead... Yet. "He was not our employer," Mrs. Grey replied. "He was our master. Remember that, Miss Murakami. He is our master." The way she said the word "our" made it almost sound like "your." Saying nothing more, the elder maid retreated from the room closing the door as she left.(butler frowned at Clarissa." The name assigned to me is Black, Miss O'Callaghan. Mister White is assigned to the gardener." His gaze softened a fraction. "I caution you to mind the rules and details, miss, here. Breaking them carries... consequences." He looked up at the row of books on the second level. "You did not peruse any of the books on the second floor, did you, Miss O'Callaghan?"(the same time Mr. Black was fetching Clarissa from the library, the younger maid was skipping up the stairs for Kyoto." Knock knock," she said and entered the bedroom without further warning." I've been sent to fetch you, Miss Murakami. Dinner is ready, downstairs. Are you properly dressed?" She looked over Kyoto's outfit."Oh, my. No, no. That won't do at all. Please Miss Murakami, allow me to remove those garments. Master Bishop keeps a closet of clothes over there, for... for his guests." (flicker of embarrassment settled onto Clarissa's features long enough to light her skin in a warm, rosy glow, before fading away with a nervous laugh and a shake of her head." I'm so sorry, Mister Black. I'm positively horrible with names. Kyoto is always much better at remembering details than I am, it's why I let her do the math, we'd be knee-deep in debt if I were allowed to play with the finances." Clarissa offered a playful laugh which turned into a cough when Black seemed unfazed by her statements." Ahem. Uhm, well, at any rate, please forgive me, I meant no offense." Glancing towards the second floor, Clarissa froze, an innocent smile gracing her lips,"The second floor? Of course not. With a library this big, I'd need a lot more than an afternoon to get to everything. Perhaps you have a recommendation? Part of any Butler Book Clubs?" She teased him playfully, hoping to get some kind of response out of the stiff looking gentleman." I'm sure I've kept Kyoto waiting long enough. She'd probably just assume I was never coming back if she took one glance at this library. And to be fair, if I didn't need those pesky things like sleep and food, I'd probably camp out here indefinitely until I'd read everything." Clarissa paused long enough to double-check that she'd put everything back in its proper place before adding on,"Still, I shouldn't leave her alone too long, if you don't tend to her often she'll explode from lack of gossip, probably about ye old Master of the house if that portrait was any indication." Another joke. Another blank stare." Okaaay. Well. Why don't we just head back downstairs now?" Clarissa inched towards the door, desperate to get back to Kyoto and experience an actual conversation again. ("He was not our employer, he was our master. Remember that, Miss Murakami. He is our master." The elder maid said with an authoritarian inflection. The words made Kyoto nervous, as if there was some sort of hidden meaning to what she said. Before Kyoto could say anything else, the maid left and closed the door behind her." What have you gotten me into, Clarissa?" The young girl wondered aloud as she shook her head and went back to looking over the beautiful room. Kyoko wasn't sure how much time had passed before she heard a female voice on the other side of the door." Knock, knock!" It wasn't Clarissa. She knew that right away. However, before she could answer, the door opened to reveal the younger maid, Miss Grey." Oh, hello Miss Grey." Kyoto smiled at her. She certainly seemed more...inviting? No. Interestingwas definitely the word to describe her." I've been sent to fetch you, Miss Murakami. Dinner is ready, downstairs. Are you properly dressed?" She asked. Before Kyoto could reply, the maid cut her off again."Oh, my. No, no. That won't do at all. Please Miss Murakami, allow me to remove those garments. Master Bishop keeps a closet of clothes over there, for... for his guests." Kyoko opened her mouth to reply, but found herself confused." I didn't know there was a dress code. All I packed was my nightgown and a change of clothes." She half-joked with a smile and soft laugh. "But I'm sure if you just pick something out for me, I can figure out what to do from there." Kyoto said, not fully offended at the thought of stripping down to her undergarments in front of Miss Grey." I'll leave my appearance in your capable hands." She laughed again, trying to get on the younger maid's good side. "Downstairs?" the butler replied with a frown. "No, Miss. You may not dine like... that." His eyes traveled the length of her body from neck to ankles and back.("Mrs. Grey," the older man called. "Please take Miss O'Callaghan to her suite and dress her properly," he asked the maid as she appeared at the doorway." Yes, Mr. Black. I will attend to her," her cold eyes then locked on redhead." Please come with me, Miss O'Callaghan." Without another word, the woman led the way up to the room that had been set aside for Clarissa." Very good," Miss Grey smiled and moved close to Kyoto. Taking her by the arm, just above the elbow, she moved more than guided the Asian beauty towards the closet. The maid's grip was notable in two ways: she was surprisingly strong for her size, and her skin felt almost cold to the touch.(room beyond the doorway was more than a closet. It was nearly the size of the bedroom and held numerous dresses--some hung carefully, others resting on dressing mannequins. To one side were a half dozen wasp-waist forms, each constrained by a corset of a different design. Some provided more support, others had more extreme curves, and one was long enough to cover a woman from chest to knees. Miss Grey moved Kyoto from one form to the next, eyeing the garment and the girl in turn." This one. This one will do," she stopped in front of one of the smaller, simpler corsets--one that ran from a woman's breasts to the top of her hips. It looked to be made of silk on the outside, with a dozen pair of matched eyelets laced with what looked to be exceptionally strong cords." Strip and turn around for me, Miss Murakami."

The Estate (MabFaerie, persephone325 & Cycle)|rating:3.0

Savage Love (Closed)

Spired ore was on her way from her uncle’s manor back to her father’s castle, she was the only daughter of the great King who had been sent away so that her father could be alone with his new wife, her father it seemed was still desperate for a son that he had married once more, and it was clear that he was very intent on breeding the woman day and night, thus throwing as many out of the castle as possible. Spiredore had only received the summons from her father when he had found out that her stepmother was indeed pregnant finally, finally Spired ore could finally be home, she's now having to attend to the duty of caring for her stepmother it seemed, her father telling her that it would be good practice for when it was finally time for her to be married! But it seemed that she would not be making good time this night while riding in her carriage in the deep forest that night, for even she could hear strange sounds in the dark, she's not even knowing that she was even being watched! They had watched and planned for this for a long time. Tonight she would be theirs. The attack came from the woods, it was quickly and ghostly silent. Spired ore, was unaware of the attack until all her men were already dead. The door to the garage was ripped open, and the leader held a sword out to her." Well well well, rookie here. 'Hello Poppet." He jeered. He leaned toward her and pressed the tip of the blade pressing against her neck. "Listen here Poppet, you are going to come with us. Together we're going to have a good time." She knew these men intended to take her and rape her. Her mind flashed to pictures of her laying naked bled and covered with seed. The white thick goo from the men would cover her body as well as slowly ooze from her body. She trembled in fear. "No please." She begged. Suddenly a cried came from outside. The man in the cart blinked and turned around. "Gary what the hell was they." The man couldn't finish that. A blade ripped across his neck and he fell UT of the cabin. Logan stood in the middle of the bodies of the Thames. He wore only a pair a trouser, his rippled bare heaved as he took breath. He looked up slowly and glared at her. Before he could say anything Spired ore's father and his senior troops came into the clearing. "Stevedore! Darling are you alright?" He rushed to her side in a panic. He glared at Logan. "Filthy Savage, arrest him!" He roared. Logan jerked back as if about to flee, but he was quickly kidney punched hard enough to drop him to his knees. They threw shackles on him and began yanking him toward the castle. To her credit he could hear Spired ore protesting with her father for the way he was being treated, insisting that this savage man had saved her. Spired ore had not been harmed in any way at all, all she knew was that there was a horrible band of men out to get their nasty hands on her and just as he was about to take her, an angel of mercy in the form of a feral man. She even was screaming and yelling at her own father the King all the way home, constantly saying, “The, he didn’t even hurt me, he never touched me, he killed a man that was bent on killing me or even worse, raping me! Why must you treat him like some common criminal?” Spiredore was a tall for her age, her body had matured quicker than normal, and there were already suitors sending requests to her father every day asking to marry her, even so far as from far east! Yet as they arrived home, she was quickly put to work in assisting her stepmother, a woman who was barely two years older than she and now carrying a little brother or sister and seeming to not find it good enough to have a servant or nurse care for her, she's demanding that the princess herself be the one to work day and night so that the new High Queen could be comfortable! Logan was brought down into the dungeon and not simply thrown in the cell. Ferals were NT given any chances, so Logan was hung by chains from the ceiling in the center of the cell. He kicked himself for bothering to step in, he should have let the woman get raped and forget about it. Now he hung in a prison like a worthless dog! He gritted his teeth and tried to sleep with the metal digging into his wrists. He shook from the cold in the dungeon and found it nearly impossible to do anything but doze a bit. The moment Spired ore found out what her father had done with her rescuer, she ran down to the dungeon, she's seeing how Logan was being held, and right there before the man she begged her father, begged him to let him go. She crying saying, “The, you must let him go, he saved my life. If it weren’t for this man, you would have more than likely found my body laying in the forest, lifeless and defiled! Is this any way to repay a man for saving your own daughter?” But deep down she knew that her father really didn’t care for her, she knew that all he wanted was a son, that a daughter born first was always considered a curse, curse to be gotten rid of as quickly as possible! She had learned from her stepmother earlier that day that her father had given her to a neighboring King for marriage, that the man would soon be on his way to take her as his bride, that Spired ore would never again see her home again! Her father turned to her and grabbed her shoulder. "You will not protest any favor for this Savage!" He hissed and her and shoved her back into one of his guards. "You will retire to your chambers and let this pig rot alone." He said and stormed out of the dungeon as she was dragged to her room by her father's goon. Logan watched with tired weary eyes, this woman's father was a total bastard. He ran off his own prejudices and not by what was true. Fate seemed to have it in for Logan, he would die here alone and miserable. Spired ore couldn’t help but look upon Logan with love, it was as though there was something already linking her to him, some kind of underlining need for him. She wanted him free, for him to be comfortable and was going to do everything in her power to make it happen, even if she had to go against her father’s wishes, even if she had to break the King’s laws! She couldn’t help but feel the way her father’s goon was touching her as he took her to her room, it clears that this man wanted the princess, it's seeming to Spired ore that more and more of her father’s men had eyes for her, she's wanting so much for everything to be over, to run away from it all! It was impossible to tell how long Logan had been hanging there. He could not see the sun to tell how many days he hung by his wrists. He could feel his wrists bleeding from rubbing on the metal cuffs. He jerked from his delirium when he heard a woman's voice whispering in the darkness to him. Furthermore, he opened his eyes slowly and saw the girl he had saved at the door to his cell, her hands gripping the bars tightly. He blinked in confusion. "Am I dead?" He asked her wearily. "What are you doing here beautiful?" His voice slurred as he hadn't eaten anything in days. Spired ore looked at Logan, the state of him there hanging in his chains made her cringe and whispered to him saying, “I have to get you out of here, my father means to keep you here till you die!” She wanted his help to overthrow her father from his throne, she's knowing that she could indeed be successful as her Kingdom’s first Queen, she's wanting the nights of her father’s best guards sexually abusing her, mauling her breasts and beating her every night and then coming all over her body to torture her. She told Logan all of this in whisper, she's hoping that there would be something that he could do to help her out, she's wanting her own pain to go away, she's wanting released from her own prison! Logan slumped again in his bindings. "I hate to break it to you girlie. I'm a little bit tied up and too weak to do anything." He said his voice almost impossible to understand he was slurring so badly. He glanced up at her and narrowed his eyes at her plump breasts. "Say you wouldn't have anything to eat in between them boobies would you." He said completely deliveries in his exhaustion. She knew that he was weak and knew what she needed to do to help him. For the next week she hands fed him when the guards were nowhere to be seen and gave him water and used healing oils on his wrists, showing him that she could indeed get him strong again, Spired ore whispering to him saying, “I will give myself to you if you help me Logan, I will be Queen of course, but I will make you my consort, my husband if you are willing to help me. If I free you, I need your promise that you will help me, and then my hear and body will be yours Logan! Logan was grateful for the food and the care, but she wanted his help in doing something that was beyond his abilities. He slumped in his shackles as much as he could. His legs trembled with weakness despite the food and care he still had very little sleep." I don't know if I can do such a thing. What you ask of me is not easy." He told her in a quiet voice. His eyes Wonder over her body again, wishing he could have it now. He hated the idea of other men pawning on her. Spired ore whispered to him saying, “Don’t worry, tonight my father will be very drunk, this is his night to drink himself half to death.” She told him when the guards would be not there, she hid a pair of clean clothes for him to change into, unlocked his cell door and undid the shackles. And with the help of her own servant, she poisoned the guards in the dungeon, their meals laced with a poison that would cause them to first put them to sleep and then kill them while they slumbered. And then to further imply that she was perfectly serious with Logan, she opened his prison cell and let him out of his shackles telling him, “I only need you to use the blade that I placed among your new clothing to kill the Queen while I poison father. I know how weak you are right now, you will not have to use too much of your strength.” And then she kissed him, her mouth on his, giving him the most passionate kiss that she had given anyone, she's whispering to Logan saying, “I will not marry a man that I don’t want, I will not be forced into a marriage, and I will no longer be a servant girl to my stepmother or a play thing for my father’s personal guard. Please help me in this task!” Logan thought it strange that she was so miserable that she would kill her own family in order to escape. He collapsed to the ground as she released his shackles, his knees too weak to support him after being forced to stand for so long. This caught Spired ore by surprise, and she fell down with him, landing on top of him her legs around his hips and their crotches pressed together. Logan took a breath and looked up at her. "Are you so mistreated that your own parents deserve death?" He asked her, enjoying the weight of the body on top of him. She responded to him saying, “Would you have your own daughter beaten, almost raped every night, forced to serve your own pregnant wife day and night when others could do it. Would you force your own daughter to marry your own enemy knowing that you would have her killed anyway? My father has his men beat me every night, they keep getting closer and closer to taking away my virginity, what would you do to a man that has the woman that you love beaten every night, sexually assaulted, just to keep her well-behaved and under his thumb?” She showed him her bruises, the black and blue hand marks that were around her breasts and back, she's looking to him now with eyes of fear saying, “Now do you understand Logan? It's either I kill my father or he kills me.” Rage filled Logan as she showed him her bruises. With the rage he was filled with strength, and he was able to sit up with Spired ore still sitting in his lap. He glanced up into her eyes and nodded." I will do this for you." He told her. "You owe me nothing in return Spired ore." He put a hand on her cheek gently. "You don't owe me your body, or your love, I cannot live with such a bastard free to do whatever he wants." He told her. She smiled at him and felt her heart flutter at the idea that he would do this for her for nothing at all, she in turn looking at him saying, “I freely give you what is mine to give.” But the truth was, he had her heart the moment he freed her from those who had tried to defile her that evening on the way back to her father’s castle keep. She helped him up and walked out of the cell, she herself wanting to go on a rampage to kill those who would harm her or the one that she was falling in love with! Logan put a hand on her shoulder and held her back from the room in which the King and Queen bantered happily. They had snuck up here without much trouble and the two guards that paid them any mind where silently dealt with. Logan moved with savage skill and speed to dispatch his foes. Now they were in front of the big target. He leaned her against the wall. "You must go now." He told her. "Get us a pair of horses and meet me outside the gates. I'm going to end this, but you cannot be here. I won't risk you being needlessly harmed, and if I fail you can still claim ignorance and be spared, hopefully." He ran a hand through her hair longing to kiss her, wishing only that he had been able to fill her with his seed at least once to have her remember him." Go now!" He hissed and drew his blade. Spired ore did as she was told, she's going right out to the stables and grabbed both hers and her father’s horses and stood outside the gates of the keep, waiting for Logan to come for her, she's hoping that everything would be alright finally, that she would finally be able to live her own life without the constant pressure from her own family to do what they wished of her, to be used over and over again as though she was really third class! The assassination went smoothly, the King was cocky and drunk..... Or at least he had been before Logan's blade split him from ear to ear. The queen began screaming, and suddenly he was battling his way through guards to get to her. He managed to bury his blade into the woman's gut, ending her and her child's wicked little life. Then he ran, his blade swinging through the guards that got into his way. Spiredore waited for him just outside the gates with two horses ready to go. Logan cried for her to mount up before he reached them. As Spired ore climbed into her saddle Logan leaped onto his, his blade slapped her horse with a zing and Spired ore screamed as her mount suddenly lapped forward into the night. Logan riding quickly in front of her to lead her to a place he knew well and would hide them. Shortly before dawn they reached the cave that Logan had called home for the past several years. It was deep and dry and because of the volcanic rock was very warm. He had little more than a few animal hides for blankets and a laying of hay to use as a bed, but it was all he had." It isn't the castle, but it's mine." He said gloomy. He gestured to the bed of hay. "You must be tired please lay down and get some rest." The cave was a very welcome sight for Spired ore, and as Logan showed her where she could sleep, Spired ore finally felt free of what had been holding her down so long, she's laying down on the warm furs, feeling them seem to wrap her in their warmth and reached out to Logan, wanting so much to feel him close to her, she's looking at him with longing saying, “Please Logan, will you lay with me?” She knew that the next couple of days would be hard, knowing now that she was now heir to her father’s throne and was glad to find out that Logan left no guard alive that saw him, she's whispering to him saying, “Will you be King by my side Logan?” Logan slowly moved to sit on the edge of the daybed with her. He shook his head to her question, he wasn't fit to lead anything he was no king. He sighed and looked at her." I'm a savage man, Spired ore. I cannot be King of anything, I am not suited to be leader or in public view. Furthermore, I am nothing." He explained to her, looking column and low. He had done a great task for this woman and the only thing he could think of was keeping her safe. Furthermore, he wanted no reward, no payment, he simply wanted her safe. She wondered if he was one of those wondering gypsies or even one of the older order of Saxons! And so she looked at him saying, “Then I will not take a husband, I will be Queen and your lover at the same time.” It was clear that Spired ore was attracted to him, that’s he clearly needed him and was making it clear that she was determined to have him in her bed and opened herself to him this night saying, “Please, take away my virginity, make it so that I don’t have to marry any other man so that I can be yours at night!” Logan shifted himself on the bed so that he could put his arms around her and pull her into his lap. She felt good in his arms, like she had been made for him, her breasts heaved delightfully in her dress, and he wondered what she would look like naked. Yet he would not allow himself that luxury tonight. She was desperate and not thinking clearly, not to mention he was exhausted from what he had just done in addition to the days in the cell." I cannot tonight Spired ore. I know you think you love me because I saved you, and I can't hide my desires for you. But I have been in an exhausting situation for the past week. I cannot give you the proper attention tonight." He whispered, leaning in to give her a gentle and innocent kiss to her lips. He laid back on the bed and let her slide off of him and snuggle against his body to sleep if she wished. Spired ore understood perfectly, and she showed him respect allowing him to relax, and she too laid down beside him, sharing the warmth of his body and the comfort of his arms around her as she began to fall asleep. When the morning light began to come through the cave opening, Spired ore began to wake up and turned to Logan and smiled, kissing his wonderful mouth saying, “If you can fish or hunt Logan, I will cook it for you.” She's already feeling a little hungry, they both had not eaten since they had escaped for the keep, Spired ore had not had anything since that previous morning at all and her hunger was catching up to her! Logan sat up slowly, his shoulders and arms still very stiff from his confinement. He nodded and got out of the bed slowly. "I should be able to gather something." He grabbed up the blade he had used to kill the King last night and walked out of the cave. Within an hour he was dragging in a wild deer. At the mouth of the cave he cleaned the beast and diced up the animal so that it could be cooked and eaten." Honey I'm home." He said with a chuckle. When Spired ore asked Logan to go get a little game, she was thinking more along the lines of a rabbit or fish, nothing so large as a deer. She smiled at him as he prepared the meat, she in turn helping him preserve the parts that they would need later for other meals and then began to put together a strong fire, she's doing her womanly duties for Logan as though she was indeed his wife, cooking the meat as he went and washed himself off in the nearby lake that surrounded them. Logan was walking toward the cave entrance rubbing an aloe balm into his shoulder when he smelt the food. Spired ore was standing at the entrance waiting for him with a smile on her face and a bowl of food in her hands. Logan felt his heart swell when he saw this and trotted up to her eagerly. "Wow, smells great." He said with a smiled, taking the bowl and quickly trying a piece of meat. It was tender and cooked perfectly. He smiled at her and nodded. "This is great. I could get used to having a cook around." He said with a laugh and pulled her into a one-armed hug. Never had Spired ore been so glad to see the look of happiness at her cooking before, she had not done too much cooking before her, yet she had been taught well just in case she was out in the middle of nowhere by her teachers. And never had she been so glad to enjoy some juicy venison! When they had both finished eating and Spired ore was done cleaning up the cooking area, being sure not to attract any unwanted creatures in the night as they slept. She was even beginning to wonder if she wanted to even return to her own home, she is suddenly wondering if a life with this man was something that she wanted. And as they got ready to sleep that night, she turned to him saying, “What if I decided that I just want to be with you Logan, to forget taking my throne, just to be here with you, to be yours for the rest of our lives?” Logan watched her take care of the kitchen as if she was amazingly happy to do such a chore. He wondered if it was because she was doing it for him, and that's what keep the smile on her face. Then she came and sat beside him on the daybed and told him her idea. Logan put a finger to her lips silencing her and pulled her into his lips. His mouth telling her his answer, his body calling out to her with need and passion, making her feel wanted and needed and loved. He put his hand around her neck and press her lips tighter against his. His tongue pushing between her lips taking her mouth for his own, tasting her, savoring her flavor. His kissing made her breathless, she's having to pant when he did break the kiss, she's now wrapping her legs around him, she's sitting in his lap facing him. Her cloths suddenly felt so restricting, she felt his hardness through his pants and yelped, her need being made very clear now, she's crying out to him saying, “Oh please Logan, take me, make me yours. Make me bleed for you as you make me a woman!” She moaned, the way he kissed her made her feel so hot, so needy for him! It was as though the longer he took not to shove himself into her, the more painful it got for her! Logan reached up to the back of her dress and yanked open the snaps. The dress sagging off her chest he tugged at it yanking her breasts free. He felt a surge of rage when he saw the fading bruises on her tits where the guards had pawed on her and mauled her body. He leaned down and began to gently kiss and lick her breasts, letting his lips and tongue caress her as if he could kiss away her pain. His hands slid up her thighs, hiking up the dress as far as he could to cup the soft cheeks of her ass. He pulled back and whispered. "Get out of this." He said tugging at her dress. She smiled and lifted the dress off of her, laying it behind her. Spired ore was now naked before Logan, completely open and ready for him. She could feel her own cunt get hot and wet for Logan, her body telling her that she wanted this more than anything, her eyes going right to the large bulge that was now forming in his pants, telling her that even with his pants on that he was large and that tonight would be a night that she would never forget, a night that she would enjoy thinking about for the rest of her life! Spiredore pressed against him and put her hand to where his cock was and began to undo his pants, wanting so much to free his cock, wanting so much to feel stuffed and finally wanted, she's crying out to him as they broke their kiss saying, “Oh, please fill me Logan!” Logan pressed her away a little. Her passion had her moving to eagerly ADN if she was a virgin he knew his size would hurt her if she wasn't ready for him. Her fingers wrapped tightly around his shaft and stoked him eagerly. He smiled at her, "Take it slow darling. You must make me slippery first, otherwise I'll hurt entering you. Taste me Spired ore, put you mouth around me and make me wet and slippy, so I can fill you easily." She had never heard of such a thing, never thought that it would do a couple good for the woman to suck on the cock of her man, but it made perfect sense to her now and she found that when she wrapped her full lips around his thick cock that the pleasure that pulsed through her from his taste and the feel that she just couldn’t get enough! Spiredore’s instincts began to take over, and she began to bob her head up and down on him, she's licking and sucking on him as if he was a piece of candy! Logan was surprised how fast she took to it. He felt bad knowing that cocksucking was probably forced on her. However he watched her got o town on him, spitting and rubbing her tongue on his tip she clearly enjoyed doing it to him. He sighed and just savored the sensations she was giving him. His cock throbbed and ached for more though." It is time now my sweet." He told her. "Lay back and get comfortable I promise to take care of you." Spired ore let his cock slip out of her mouth and laid back on the furs, letting them comfort her naked skin and looked Logan up and down as he undressed, she's loving the way his body looked, so well-built and so perfect, she's not even realizing that she had spread her legs for him, opening herself up to him, giving herself to him! She wasn’t even thinking about the chaos that was happening at her old home, that without a King there would be little government control and power would be in the hands of someone like Logan anyway, and right now she was his only worry, the only thing that he was thinking about. And so she looked up to him, smiling and saying, “I am ready Logan.” Logan eased himself down on the bed and shifted himself between her legs. Her warmth was intense, and he could feel her heat calling to him. He's fitting himself to her hole and pushed gently. He felt her tense when his tip pushed into her, and he back arched in sudden pain."Are you ok?" He asked easing a title bit more of himself inside of her, and bracing himself to push deeper into her. Spired ore nodded to him, she's feeling a little bit of pain, but understood that as being normal for her first time, she's knowing that after this she would feel no pain, only pleasure of being with him. And before she kissed his mouth, she whispered to him saying, “Take me, I am alright. I know that it will only hurt for a moment. Just kiss me when you break into me.” She wrapped her arms around him, she's bracing herself by holding onto him knowing that he was about to pushing all the way into her! Logan kissed her, holding her head gently against his lips. He pushed into her, hitting her barrier but after only a brief pause he pushed past her virginity and buried himself deep inside of her. She screamed against his mouth, her body shook and trembled around him. He could feel her cunt rippling and squeezing him as if trying to figure out what this invader in her body was. As soon as she felt the pain rush through her, it was gone and replaced by only pleasure, she's feeling his fat cock now stretching her and could only now moan in delight for him, her body feeling so hot for him, she never felt stuffed like that before and was liking it very much! Her hips began to move a little, it was as though her body knew exactly what to do now, for she began to push up and down on him, and everything felt perfect to her. The way he held her close as he slides deeper into her, the way his hands felt on her body, and the way his thick cock stuffed her so perfectly! He was going to ask her how she felt, but then her hips began to grind up into him and he smiled. She instantly began to enjoy herself as he buried inside of her. He leaned down and kissed her while he began to pump into her slowly and gently at first, letting her body grow used to the movement." Better than the beasts in the castle?" he asked in a whisper. "Tell me how you feel baby." He licked and her lips, letting his tongue coat them in his spit. She kissed his mouth and whispered to him saying, “The beasts in the castle didn’t make me feel like this, so good and so wanted!” She moaned and whispered into his ear saying, “I feel like I have died and gone to heaven Logan, you fill me so perfectly, as though my body was meant for yours!” Logan smiled and kissed her deeply. "Perhaps the fates smile on us after all my forsaken love." He said as he rocked his body into hers. Her walls trembled and ripple along his length as he moved within her, it was like she was drinking him in, eager for his seed to spray inside of her so she could feel his love completed within her. Spired ore whimpered and moaned for him, his thickness stuffing her to the point that it felt as though nothing else would ever fit inside of her again, that her body would never be the same now that her cunt was wrapped around his manhood! She cried out to him as she came all over his cock, her warm honey like fluids making her entrance even more slick and pleasurable for the both of them! She held onto him as though her life depended on it, she's kissing his mouth and chest over and over again, it was clear now that she would never want or need another! Her orgasm was intense, and her body spasmed and rippled around him, bringing a gasp from his lips. He threw his arms around her and held her tight as his body trembled with hers. He kissed her deeply and tried to hold his orgasm back, not wanting his pleasure to end with her just yet. Her body continued to milk and rippled around his shaft nearly bringing him to release, but he smiled against her lips and managed to hold himself back. He pulled her back up into a sitting position on his lap, letting her rock her hips however she liked on him. "Here now you can please yourself on me baby. Show me how you can scream in pleasure." Never had she thought that a man could treat her so nice, that he would indeed put it in her hands how she wanted to be fucked, how she wanted to be pleasured! And here he was, Logan was letting her go at her own pace, it clears that he was indeed her rescuer in more than one way! And so she rocked her hips on him, she's moaning and whimpering in pleasure the entire time. Spired ore could feel him going so deep, so deep that every time the head of his cock bumped her cervix, she cried out in surprise and pleasure. She was in heaven, able to feel every inch of his thickness stuffed inside of her, they fucking like animals deep in a cave not even thinking about what could be happening all around them, Spired ore not even fully understanding that if Logan were to cum deep inside of her, there would be a great chance that she would give him his first child! Their world was changing, everything around them was different now, it was clear that soon things might go back to savagery, and for some reason, Spired ore was comfortable with that, she's knowing that with Logan’s skill that they could very well live out their lives in comfort and pleasure! He watched with great pleasure as Spired ore began to rock herself on his rod. Her body milked him as she moved, bringing sighs from his lips. Logan focused himself with running his fingers over her skin, exploring her body getting to know her. He wanted her to experience uncontrollable pleasures, she deserved it. Her entire life had been torment and pain, Logan wanted her to come to him for pleasures. He wanted her to get pleasure from his body. He wondered how much she would want him though. Could he drive her crazy enough to always want him? He put his arms around her and hugged her tightly to his body, preventing her from moving. "Spired ore, I have a question to ask you." He whispered. The way that he held her to him, it really did feel as though she mattered to someone finally, and when he told her that he had to ask her something, she kissed his mouth and whispered to him saying, “Ask Logan!” She was high on pleasure, the feel of his thickness buried deep inside of her, feeling as though he was the one to fill her emptiness, she's wrapping her arms as well, her full breasts smashed into his chest, she's moaning at the delightful feel of her hard nipples against his wonderful chest! Logan kissed her earlobe and said softly. "Would you like my seed in your womb? Can I try to put my child inside your body Spired ore? Would you grow my child inside you? If not this time would you take me seed until I fertilized your holy heaven?" Spired ore had never really thought about that before, she was always too busy studying and having to deal with those that meant her harm, but a child with Logan did suddenly sound ideal, and she gave him a large smiling, telling him that she was more than willing, she's kissing his mouth and saying, “I would love to have a child with Logan!” Though she had not been told at all how it was really done, for her tutors did shield her well from the sins of the flesh! *bump* Logan bucked up into her body and erupted into her body. His cock jerked and throbbed and pulsed waves of seed into her womb. Heat poured through him as he wrapped his arms around her and pinned her body to his, to prevent her from withdrawing at all. She howled his name over and over again as she felt wave after wave of his hot seed flow into her! She kissed his mouth in the hopes of getting quiet, but it only muffled her cries of pleasure and his taste made her only want more and more! She wrapped her own arms around him as he held her to him, Spired ore had never felt so good in her life, so complete by what he was doing to her! Tears were flowing down her face as she continued to feel such powerful pleasure and love for this man that was now making her his in so many ways! Logan shuddered and shook as his body emptied itself into her. He fell back on the bed, pulling her down with him, the shift caused his cock to slip out of her and flop against her ass cheek. Sticky fluids began oozing from her as they lay there panting in a heyday heat. Spired ore kissed his mouth lovingly, she herself falling to sleep in Logan’s strong arms, she's feeling the comfort of his warm body against hers, their naked skin against one another. She woke before he and went to the edge of the cave to take down a small bit of the salted meat and began to cook it knowing that Logan would want to eat something when he woke up, and smiled to herself just how wonderful it would be for him to wake to the smell of cooking meat. But her smile quickly went away as she heard fighting out in the direction of what was once her home, she's seeing in the distance as everything was up in flames and what was once her world was quickly coming to an end. She ate quickly and went back deeper into the cave, she knew that they would only be able to hunt for food at night for a time and wondered how in the world things would end up for them! *bump* Logan sat up and yawned. The sounds of fighting waking him from his slumber. "Is that from your home?" He asked as he blinked away his sleep. He took the food Spired ore brought him and ate it happily. Furthermore, he was content to let her hometown destroy itself so long as he could be here with her. Furthermore, he could take care of her just fine, they didn't need a castle or stupid rules of society. They could truly be free here."are you alright?" He asked her, sensing that she didn't like what was happening outside. She nodded at him saying, “I am fine, it's just the end of my torment I believe! Finally, we will be free once more.” She knew that deep down all that had occupied the great keep were either dead or dying, they would all scatter and the free tribes would once again control the region for a time. She kissed Logan after they had finished eating and made it clear that she needed his love, she's wrapping her partially naked body around him, her cloths already becoming tattered and worn, they both beginning to really look as though they were cave dwellers! And giggled saying, “I shall have our first child here, and will enjoy the peace of being able to raise your children as a cave dweller, to no longer have to deal with the stress of the guards trying to take me time after time again!” Logan frowned and ran his fingers through her hair. "I can not give you a fancy home, but I can provide for your every need." He promised, holding her comfortingly. "Tell me what you need, and I shall slaughter my way through a hundred towns to bring it to you." He told her. There was no doubt, Logan made her heat sing! And she kissed his mouth whispering to him saying, “Be with me always, that’s all I desire!” All that she could think about was the need to be with him, the want to be around him always and knew that her happiness would always be fulfilled by his love! And finally, after several months of small battles and burnings of buildings of her old home, a quietness filled the air and Spired ore knew now that nothing would ever be able to threaten she and Logan. And as she brought water up from the small lake that was just outside the cave that they were living in, she smiled seeing Logan there, skinning a deer and getting it ready for her to cook for him, she's looking down at her own swelling body and then smiled up at Logan again, she's knowing that when the spring came, they would have a child between them to care and love! She handed Logan the large bag of water that he would need to clean the meat and sat down beside him, she no longer able to wear her old gown anymore, and so she sat there almost completely naked except for a large robe that she had made out of furs that Logan provided her and liked how he always had perfect access to her swollen orbs and how he just seemed to enjoy feeling her belly now as though he worshiped her body night and day!

Savage Love (Closed)|rating:2.0