(The discussion thread is here
)
Welcome to HGS: Another Side Another Story. It is a roleplay spinoff for the Hunger Games Simulator forum game, akin to both the RP's in the Roleplaying section as well as the ITTs in Forum Games. It tells the story of the Hunger Games in the Arena of Panem, the nominators who sent the tributes, the tributes themselves both in and out of the Arena or even other people relevant to the Games. In addition, it also tells their stories beyond the Arena.
You can jump right in with any character, like your nominator self, your tributes, etc. The structure of this RP will be open-world. Don't worry about not being skilled/experienced enough or being new to RP'ing. Finally, ASAS accepts any skill level or RP style. Other than these, there are some important rules to note, which are:
- No godmodding will be allowed or tolerated here. The offending player will be given punishment depending on the severity.
- Please communicate anything important you plan on another player with the said player first. Don't just execute it without their consent.
- Don't be rude to other players, both out and in-universe. This extends to RP offenses like railroading, guilt-tripping, coercing, or other forms of forcing them.
- This RP is related to the Hunger Games Simulation:Beyond the Possibilities forum game. Thus it will have events based from that game, including the tributes. This means if you want to RP as tributes, please nominate them officially on the thread first, with misses not being counted. This has to be done after an incident with a player who hasn't joined the game itself yet.
- Since this RP is Loose Canon in relation to the main HGS thread, the host's interpretation of events isn't necessarily 100% canon. Every player has the right to deviate from what the host says and go with their own interpretations. If multiple players have their tributes involved in the same event(s), please communicate with each other so that you're on the same page regarding how you see them.
- This RP chronicles the lives of the nominators and their tributes behind the scenes. While dark plots are acceptable, the overall tone of the RP should be light-hearted and comedic. This RP is not a Cosmic Horror Story or action story about defeating evil. It is a Slice of Life comedy with some adventure to it, first and foremost. Our previous RP, Convergence, is not representative of the intended tone, and the grimdark tone of that RP is one of the main reasons it was retooled.
- Nominators and tributes alike can transform into Pokemon whenever they enter a Pokemon Mystery Dungeon World (but they can bypass this with certain items/methods or shapeshifting) or via other means outside it such as a season event, Transformation Trinkets, or shapeshifting. The players are free to choose the Pokéforms that best suit their characters and even give them color schemes outside the standard and Shiny colors, but there is a hard rule for this. If you want your character's Pokéform to be a Legendary, Mythical, or Ultra Beast, please ask the RP mods for approval. Outside the Arena, these Pokéforms are still OP, but we want to give leeway for tributes who theoretically can have them such as deities.
- Other rules are covered in the RP guides: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/posts.php?discussion=13414403220A81433600&page=1#comment-1
Other guides to help you can be found below:
Here's my opening RP post:
Detective Gamechanger's Base
A sharp-dressed man in a green suit and yellow tie is standing by the entrance of the base. He is of average height and has whitish skin, though still a bit darker. He is Billy, one of the nominators and the organizer of the party.
Indeed, after the nominators' returned and settled their problems, they decide to have fun with a party. Billy also sent invites for all the other nominators out there, as well as basically anyone else, including tributes, non associated parties, interested nominators who haven't participate yet, or even those who just wants to hang out.
The place itself in the base is refurbished for party purposes. Fancy chairs and tables are set everywhere for people to relax, as well as put food and other objects for the latter. There's also various collections showcased, including those belonging to the Detective, like his classic cars. Various themes to the base are set too, including detective noir as GC would have preferred.
Billy is now awaiting for other guests to arrive. He is also ready to give them a pleasant surprise during the party pertaining to his nation.
Edited by Billy5545 on Aug 23rd 2023 at 12:18:55 AM
Braids From S286 Not Included
Power's Home
"Good for you, but I meant to ask... what District are you from? 'Cause if it reached the Capitol, then Ally's clone must've had glitched up while the communications were jammed!
"Anyway, I hope Psyche will take better care of Sayaka after everything she had been through. Perhaps she should data clone her should she nominate her someday, given her heroic tributes' track records."
The Database Library, Basement
6k1 sighs when Bruni suddenly dies of cancer. Could he have gotten it from those baked beans he forced Lucina to eat? Either way, she shouldn't take this as a big loss, for she can simply spend more time with her family while waiting for the next season.
She gets the recap of the last one, then orders a relationship advice book for Tabby and a premium Hearthstone deck for Haze. Dupe then climbs onto her lap and mews.
"Oh, you want me to pet you like your sister?"
He nods, and she happily does so.
"And sorry about using that slur in front of you. I hope you also enjoyed the holidays with your ohana."
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
"With all that's happened, I'd be shocked if she didn't start treating Sayaka better. Anywho, to answer your question, it's District 10."
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Power's Home
"Huh, so you were too far away to be affected by Giygas, and coincidentally Azzy was wandering at the border there!"
Power suddenly hears a knock on the door.
"Pow-Pow! Your whole family's here, and everypony's wearing red!"
"One moment, Mira!"
She turns back to Ichi.
"Before I go, I just wanna say that Winged Season's the next themed season! Was hopin' that Silly Nicknames would win instead, but I'll take it!"
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
"Yeah, was hoping that Artist Season would've made the cut myself, TBH."
Kirby
The Spacepod
The sun rose in Panem. Kirby wakes up along with the others. After a warm breakfast, Kirby picks up a present from his room and, along with Bebe and Ribbon, left the Pod.
Outside the Database Library
Kirby and the three walk through the snowy landscape near the Database Library. They are bringing a gift which contains a plush toy of Kirby himself. They knock on the door.
Edited by Oggy123 on Dec 30th 2020 at 6:47:51 PM
She/Her | inactive for now
The Holi-Tae Season
Though Psyche had received 6k1's gifts and letter on Christmas Day, she hasn't been able to respond to the latter until today–
Wait…
Right. It's Tae Day.
I really don't think I should think too hard about how time works here, Psyche thinks to herself. She closes her eyes and bows her head for a moment of silence for V. She wonders how he's doing now. Quite well, hopefully.
Anyway, where was I? Ah, right, 6k1's letter.
Once the moment of silence has concluded, Psyche heads over to her desk, reads over 6k1's letter again, and begins writing out a response:
Hey, thanks for those albums! Honestly, there's really no deep reason for my decision to nominate a data clone of Sayaka back there. There's no deep reason for me to nominate any of my tributes, period. I did withdrawal that clone from the season since I kinda figured it'd be insensitive to the real Sayaka, though. And there is a deep meaningful reason why I'm avoiding nominating Earth Prime tributes for awhile, I guess. I feel so bad for I.N, and Changbin, and Jimin, and V, and all the other Kpop boys who suffered in that arena… and that's why I've made the decision to data clone them. Maybe I'll properly data clone Sayaka, too, but… I dunno. Earth Prime tributes are top priority for me at the moment.
Anyway, Merry Christmas! And happy Tae Day, too, I guess. I'm sorry for the late response, I've been so busy with Christmas stuff lately that I can barely even move. I'm gonna have a nap after I send this…
After sending the response to 6k1, Psyche quickly catches up with the current season, consisting of the same Kazuichi and Fuyuhiko she always nominates… except they've been forced to wear Santa hats for the holiday season, much to their chagrin. She smiles with amusement as she witnesses the year of 2021 somehow completely butcher the Japanese language.
Ah, the HGS…
She's just about to go take a nap, like she said she would, when her phone buzzes.
To her surprise, Jimin has sent her a photo. A photo of all seven BTS members, happily celebrating Tae Day together. Not the Panem holiday commemorating the V Incident, but rather, V's birthday. All of the members look happy, with V clearly being the happiest of them all.
Oh, wow… thanks for sending me this, Jimin. I'm really glad to see that Taehyung's having a great day.
Jimin's response comes through almost immediately:
Me too. Taehyungie's happiness has always been very important to me. I'm glad you can see that now, too.
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Power's Home
"Really? Is it because you want to see me in the Arena again?" Power smiles. "But either way, I'm still on a break until S200 or the Simulator is implemented, whichever comes first, since data cloning myself is cheating for me! Anyway, I'll change to that red hoodie you gave me last year and celebrate both Hearth's Warming and New Year's with my family! See ya!"
The Database Library, Basement
While Ally places 6k1's gifts from her tributes under the Christmas tree, 6k1 replies to Psyche:
It's okay, I'm glad you came clean to me about the Sayaka clone, though I've to admit that you were one step ahead of me there. I understand your decision to prioritize your Earth Prime tributes, but for me, all of my non-Earth Prime ones are like "real" people, you get what I mean? That's why I'll listen to their requests the next time I nominate them, but my cloning machine's not ready yet. Here's to a better EP year ahead of us, even if 2021 dies this season!
She then orders a copy of the 20X0 yearbook from Zoe's school for Mett and glow-in-the-dark sea creatures for Mr. Star, then receives a call from Timothy to head upstairs for Kirby's gift. 6k1 excuses herself and goes up, greeting Kirby a Merry Christmas. When she gets her gift, she plans to tell him that she already got a Kirby plushie from Magolor for her birthday, but it's the thought that counts.
Edited by TroperNo9001 on Dec 31st 2020 at 2:59:01 AM
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
Not an evil Thievul
Eye-Sicle Alone
(Eye-Sicle figures that it's only fair that Mrs. Spankenheimer go to the villain school after what she's done so far this season. He watches what happens.)
(She ends up in the mad scientist class where she makes a gigantic, rather monstrous-looking fruitcake.)
Now when I flip the switch.... (click)
BOOM!
(Fruitcake goes everywhere and the entire classroom is destroyed. In short order, Mrs. Spankenheimer is ran out of the school.)
...That was anti-climactic. (Eye-Sicle says.)
(But even more anti-climactic to Eye-Sicle is how both Spankenheimer and Albert are quite unceremoniously taken out later the same day. Albert's case in particular infuriates Eye-Sicle because he was only taken out because a person he doesn't recognize took a bribe to take him out of the Season.)
(Frustrated, Eye-Sicle goes ahead and sets things up to restore the two to normal and goes ahead and makes preparations for the next season.)
Santa's Castle
(In Santa's castle, everyone waits for the Head Elf to be able to speak coherently again and tell them what he knows about who attacked and burned down Hermey's dentistry.)
Has the Novacain worn off yet? (Wanda asks.)
Hmm...I'd say it's been long enough. (Hermey says. He turns to the Head Elf.) How do you feel, sir?
TERRIBLE! (The Head Elf barks before grabbing his jaw.) OWW!!
You had something to tell us, right? (Joaquin asks.) About what happened at the dentist's?
YES, I DID! DARNEDEST THING I EVER SAW! (The Head Elf says.)
(Suddenly, jaunty music starts up, and everyone spontaneously starts to sing.)
Who burned the place down?
Who blew it sky high?
Was it faulty wi-r-ing,
Or arsonist guys?
No! Bandit animals burned it - all down!
(Jared and the others look visibly confused about why they suddenly started singing before continuing:)
Were they fel-las from here?
Were they reindeer or bears?
Were they Pok-e-mon, sir?
Or a rival of their's? (Wanda gestures toward Hermey.)
Bandit animals burned it - all down!
(A thought balloon appears above everyone, showing the Head Elf's account of the events.)
They all were dressed like bandits - There were more than two or three,
They stole all Hermey's den-tist junk - and they all just laughed at me!
A coyote lead them,
There was a rattlesnake, too,
A bison and a hawk,
And a cactus thing to boot,
Bandit animals burned it - all down!
(Joaquin suddenly looks mortified.) Oh no.
What's wrong, dude?
(Joaquin resumes singing:)
I know who this man speaks of, a group so dan-ger-ous,
They come from mine and Ken-ny's land; the coyote's mur-der-ous!
WHAT?! (The head elf leaps to his feet.)
Get your butts out there-
-before people get hurt!
If anybody does,
I say it's your fault!
That bandit animals burned it - all down!
Right away sir,
We'll find 'em out there!
You have our sure word
That they'll be out of your hair.
GET THE ONES WHO BURNED IT - ALL DOWN!
(Jared, June, Wanda, and Joaquin all begin heading out of the castle, singing altogether.) Bandit animals burned it all down... (They sing until they're out of the castle.)
(The music fades out once they're out of the castle.)
That was the weirdest thing ever... (Jared says.)
I thought it was fun! (June says.) Think we'll just bust out singin' for no reason again later?
If I have to sing again, it'll be way too soon... (Wanda says, having pulled her hat down over her face.)
(Hermey comes out of the castle after them.) Excuse me, Joaquin? Was what you said true? Do you know these people?
...Yes. (Joaquin says.) I was one of them once.
Y' were? (June asks.)
Remember I said I didn't know my parents? (Joaquin says.) Their leader, Knox, is why. I still don't know for sure what happened to them, but I have a bad feeling. All I know for sure is that Knox and his gang took me away from them when I was a baby and he raised me like I was his son.
(A bitter expression comes across the normally jovial-looking lizard's face.) For nineteen years, I thought that wicked, wicked man who taught me how to disrupt people's livelihoods and forced me to have this curse was my father!
Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry... (Hermey says.)
Yeah, that's terrible... (June agrees.)
Yeah...that really sucks. (Jared says solemnly.)
(Wanda seems quiet for a moment before speaking up again.) So he's why you turn into an alebrije at night?
Well, all of us did. It was after that happened that he turned REALLY ruthless. (Joaquin says.) He was all to happy to become a super-strong flying coyote at night.
(After Joaquin says this, it suddenly dawns on him that the sun is getting low in the sky.) ACK! It's almost night now! We have to find them before they turn into alebrijes and get REALLY dangerous!
Well, don't let me hold you all up! I think it goes without saying that Santa would be most upset by these fellows causing trouble here. (Hermey says.)
No kidding! (Jared says.) C'mon, guys, let's go find everyone else!
If any of your friends come here, I'll tell them where you've gone. (Hermey says.)
Thanks, Hermey! Let's go!
(The four of them head off.)
Sombertown
(In the years since the Burgermeister Meisterburger was ousted as leader over Sombertown, things have turned right around for the once gloomy town. People are much happier, the town is far more colorful, and children are able to have all the toys they want without worry. It's also well-known for being the start of Santa Claus's story.)
(And yet all is not well. In the snow-covered cliffs overlooking the town, several pairs of eyes look down upon the village.)
You know, boss, we're technically supposed to be here for only one thing.
I know, I know, but you know what else? I don't care. We may as well have a little fun while we're here. Besides, we'll be doing that big old guy a favor. I imagine that he'll pay nicely for it. All we just have to do is wait for the sun to set, and we're in business...
"Lucian, don’t be afraid, we’ll make it through this."
She/Her | inactive for now
Psyche's Fanfic School – Principal's Office
After a few hours, Psyche awakens from her nap and responds:
I understand. I doubt I'll use data clones for my non-Earth Prime tributes in the future, besides Sayaka at least, but... we'll see. It's just that the Earth Prime tributes are closer to my heart. Anyway, happy New Year!
Edited by Psychedelicate on Dec 31st 2020 at 5:05:24 AM
Kirby
Outside the Library
After 6k1 answers, Kirby then gives his gift to her.
"Merry Christmas!"
Then, Dedede and Bandana Dee appear from behind Kirby. They offer their own gifts to 6k1, which are little crotchet dolls of Kirby
◊, Dedede, Ribbon, Bandana Dee, and Meta Knight. Dedede also gives a crotchet doll of Kirby to him.
"Merry Christmas, Kirby!"
"Poyo!" said Kirby as he admires the doll.
The Spacepod
After they return to the Pod, Bandana Dee tells Kirby that he plans to give the other Nominators Christmas gifts, showing him some presents. Kirby agrees.
They then fly the Spacepod into other places, staring with Psyche's Fanfic School, where Kirby offers her a figure of Bebe
◊, Sayaka
◊, and some K-Pop albums.
Edited by Oggy123 on Dec 31st 2020 at 6:58:57 PM
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The Database Library
To 6k1's surprise, the duplicate plush is actually a crochet doll: and not only that, but it's a whole collection of them! She hugs Kirby and thanks him for the gifts, then nods at Psyche's reply to her as she returns to the basement. There, 6k1 sees Ally wrapping Mimi up with bandages.
"Why?" asks Asriel as he holds the Starble in his hands.
Because her auditory organs have a high frequency range and are sensitive to noises with a high decibel reading.
"Huh?"
"She has super hearing," says 6k1, "and she gets skittish whenever there are loud noises such as fireworks."
"Oh..."
In other news, your Christmas present from Molly Weasley has arrived along with the others!
"Really?!" asks 6k1, and she promptly goes to the tree and opens the gift. She squees as she tries on the purple hand-knitted sweater.
"How did she know my size?"
Ally's eyes glow a brighter green. Magical knowledge, I theorize, but there is also a handwritten letter from her!
6k1 reads it aloud, beaming that it's also a thank-you gift for saving Charlie a few seasons back. Molly also said that he was able to celebrate Christmas with the family, but will undergo three months of community service starting today as punishment for his time traveling mishap.
And attached is your application form to become a Muggle ambassador to the Wizarding World! Arthur says that it'll take them five working days to process it, and when you're ready, just visit the Muggle Liaison Office for your interview, and a Ministry worker will cast a permanent protection charm on you if you're approved!
6k1 nods in understanding about Charlie and checks the application form. She squints at the fine print, which says that she still has to comply with the International Statute of Secrecy even if she's approved. She fills in the form and sends it to the Ministry, then orders an assorted set of figurines of Eye-Sicle's tributes for him before she starts opening her other presents.
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
She/Her | inactive for now
Psyche's Fanfic School
Psyche happily accepts the gifts from Kirby and thanks him. Realising she hasn't sent any gifts herself, she spends the rest of the day writing fanfics for all the other nominators. These fanfics are all written according to each nominator's specific tastes. She emails the fanfics to each nominator once she's done.
Niiue
Distortion World
Scipion sighed in disappointment as he, his friends, and the Dark Star were watching the season. His clones of Jenova and Lavos, since he couldn't risk coming into contact with creatures like them failed miserably.
"Well shit... I guess I can't have qualified tributes nowadays, can I? And I missed another season, great..." Scipion complained.
"Like nominator, like tribute..." the Dark Star sarcastically growled.
"Nice one, small ball." Morgan said, grinning as Scipion looked angrily at the evil star.
"Small ball? Foolish imp, I am the Dark Star, the very incarnation of darkness!" the artifact growled.
"About that Darky..."
"How dare you call me by that infuriating nickname, you haired worm?!"
"Go say that to my dad's face." Scipion firmly replied. The artifact growled but stopped ranting.
"Good... I don't know why you're so angry these days. Maybe it's because of Christmas and the New Year... Well, you know what? How about you try to relax inside the arena?"
"Why would I waste my time with such nonsenses??"
"Because I want to. Dad may have resurrected you, but I did send you into the arena once. You're the only one of my tribute who constantly stays in the Distortion World, so how about you take that role seriously?"
"Tch! I am your father's advisor." the Dark Star protested.
"Second, actually. I am afraid that role goes now to Scipion's mom." Morgan said mockingly, adding more salt to the injury.
"I will murder you."
"And I will make sure that won't happen. I won't repeat, Darky. Next season after that one, if I got in, you're in." Scipion said, showing his claws to the Dark Star. It rolled its eyes but complied, knowing it had no choice.
"Can I at least choose my partner for this... idiocy?"
"Say the magic word first." Scipion said a huge smug grin on his face.
"...Please?" the Dark Star reluctantly asked.
"EYAHAHAHAAAA!! Much better!" the Zoroark cackled. The Dark Star wordlessly left, not even bothering to thank.
"Finally it's gone..." Scipion sighed in relief, sitting down on the ground before looking at the purple sky.
"Boss? I have a question." Onox asked.
"Sure. Go ahead."
"You spent your time with us and your dad and mom. Why didn't you anything to your other friends?"
"Oh... Well... They're not exactly my "friends" anymore... And it's probably for the best. You were here so I had to spend it with you two. The last Christmas I had, I didn't even give a thought about you two... And... I didn't try to openly murder any nominators. Pretty sure that if I sent a gift to any of them, they would accept it only out of politeness, not because they would like it or they appreciate me. I won't bother the other noms with that." Scipion explained.
"Oh? That's too bad. I had "gifts" planned for them." Morgan cackled.
"Really? During the Holidays? You really are a walking devil, aren't you?"
"And I am very proud of that, thank you."
"And hat if some of them actually gave you late gifts?" Onox asked.
"Uh... That's not a bad remark... I'll find something for them, but I doubt it will happen."
"In this insane place, love is all that stands between us and the great beyond."
Braids From S286 Not Included
The Database Library, Basement
As Mr. Sutton counts down to the New Year, 6k1 reads Psyche's fanfic and giggles. It was a funny yet wholesome friendship fic about Ichi and Power, and she wonders when they'll hang out together again.
She then gifts the Rescue Squad a rescue team toolkit with various dungeon items that could help them in their next mission. She also gifts her tributes and the other nominators except for Scipion small items pertaining to their interests, though she put more thought into Dave's. She hopes he's enjoying the holidays as well and wishes him a bright year ahead.
The season then ends with fireworks going off just as Lucina scatters poisoned caltrops in Akechi's path. Everyone shouts "Happy New Year!" while Mimi tries squirming out of Asriel's hands, but he holds her tight and calmly tells her that it's okay.
With that, 6k1 texts Bale congrats for getting the other half of his OTP to the Hall of Fame, then does the usual before nominating a certain stoic pony couple. Before writing to them, however, she takes a deep breath and tries contacting them with her crystal ball.
"Mudbriar...? Maud Pie...? Do you wanna be data cloned this season?"
She explains to them what it is and calls Alphys for the progress report, who says that it's 25% complete and that the project will continue in the next season. The gray ponies just stare at 6k1 without smiling.
"Well technically," says Mudbriar, "I would still be participating if the memories of my exact duplicate will be transferred to me, so count me out of that pointless blood sport."
"Yes, I want to be cloned," Maud follows.
6k1 sighs. "I'm sorry, but I just want to see the two of you do well in the Arena as yourselves, like all my tributes! But don't worry, our staff will give you the best aftercare treatment and send you home safely after the season!"
They nod a little, but Mudbriar still raises an eyebrow at her.
"Fine, I will try that cloning machine of yours if you nominate me again. Even if I dislike this game, this is a decent compromise."
"Alright, I'll still write to you for formality's sake."
She says goodbye to them and does so. 6k1 remembers when Maud lost respect for her friend Starlight and did nothing to prevent the latter's prophesied death after she went back to her dictator ways in Season 12. 6k1's sure that they made amends after that and hopes that Maud and her boyfriend will enjoy the first season of the new EP year together.
6k1 then checks the clock. It's a little bit past lunch already, so before she opens her other gifts, she tries her best to cook a Christmas meal for her family using the Underground cookbook, which was Toriel's gift for her last holiday season.
"And can we call Mom later?" asks Asriel. "I fell asleep waiting for you last night!"
"Of course, we will!"
Edited by TroperNo9001 on Jan 2nd 2021 at 3:17:10 AM
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
Not an evil Thievul
Eye-Sicle Alone
(Eye-Sicle does what he usually does when he's angry while nominating tributes and just pulls in two (or technically three; one turns out to be a group of two) folks from a random world.)
(He grumbles. He sure is having fun right now (not). Bored out of his mind, he leaves the water hole he is sitting in, dries off, puts his tux back on, and starts heading back the way he came.)
North Pole (Cliffs)
(By dusk, Cleo finally locates Kenny, sitting at the edge of a small cliff watching snow birds flying by. Cleo gently lands herself behind him.) Kenny?
(Kenny turns around. Cleo senses a bit of fear...and a LOT of embarrassment.)
...I sorta made a fool of myself, didn't I? (Kenny says.)
We just wanted to make sure you were alright. We got worried when we realized that you ran off. (Cleo says.) Joaquin told us that you are afraid of fire. Is that true?
(Kenny hesitates before answering.) ...Yeah. Fire always gets my goat.
Do you want to talk about it at all? (Cleo asks.) It's fine if you don't.
Well...figure I may as well go ahead 'n get it over with. (Kenny says with a sigh.) Goes back to when I was a kid. My family's farm caught on fire while my parents were away at the market and I was watchin' the farm. I ended up trapped in there as everything was goin' up in flames until our neighbor from up the way broke in and rescued me. I couldn't even go near a campfire after that.
(He sighs.) The worst part is, I was actually finally startin' to move past it by the time I grew up. I could even be around campfires without breakin' a sweat. But then came the 'Brijes...
The...'Brijes? (Cleo asks. Given Joaquin's condition, she worries about what Kenny is going to say next.)
Yep...they were just your normal gang of bandits 'til they disturbed a cursed treasure and ended up turnin' into alebrijes at night. (Kenny says.) And I know what yer probably thinkin', and yes, Joaquin used to be one of 'em. He was probably the only good egg of the whole bunch if ya ask me.
But anyway, it was basically a repeat of what happened when I was a kid. I was in town gettin' something to eat, and I came back to find my farm already looted and on fire. I got mad 'n charged at their leader, a real nasty varmit by the name of Knox. Big mistake. He overpowered me 'n hung me up by my legs from a support beam in my house, and just like that I was a twelve-year-old again, surrounded by fire 'n scared I was gonna die, and this time I was sure I wasn't gonna make it out. If Joaquin hadn't defied Knox 'n snuck back in to rescue me, I probably woulda died that day. I owe a lot to that feller.
(He sighs again.) But after that, I was back to square one. I can't even see so much as a campfire.
Oh, Kenny, I'm so sorry all of that happened to you. (Cleo says.)
I really hate bein' afraid of fire. (Kenny adds.) Sometimes when I'd wander around the wilderness helpin' people before all this happened, in the back of my mind, I'd think: "What if there was a burnin' building and I was the only one capable of helpin' 'em? Would I be able to?" Guess we got that question answered today.
For what it's worth, Kenny, everyone had made it out of that burning dentistry alright before we even got there. (Cleo says.) You know, if you need anybody to help you get past your fear of fire, the rest of us are here to help. Plus, there are also 6k1 and all of her friends who can help, too. We're all in this strange, strange adventure together.
Thanks a mil, Cleo. (Kenny says.)
(Then, after thinking about Kenny's story for a moment, something occurs to Cleo.) Kenny, do the 'Brijes always burn the buildings they rob?
Yeah, they do, whether they're in alebrije form or not. (Kenny says. Then he realizes what Cleo is thinking.) Wait, you don't suppose...naw, that's impossible, there's no way the 'Brijes could be HERE. Could they?
At this point, nothing surprises me any more. (Cleo says, looking at her reflection in a frozen puddle (that looks like acryllic glass).) Oh, I cannot return to Scale Cove looking like a child's toy...let's get back and find the others. I suppose I'll look for them from the air and you look for them from the ground.
Sure thing! (Kenny says, getting back up to his feet.)
(Kenny starts off on foot while Cleo floats herself up into the air.)
(No-Feet's homeworld, at least where Stanford landed, appears to be an idyllic, wide-open plain at the base of some tall hills, seemingly untouched by civilization except for the odd farmhouse here and there. Stanford wanders around looking for someone who might know of the snake, but he hasn't had any luck so far. Stanford currently appears to be a completely normal four-legged arctic fox, albeit still wearing his black bow-tie, as he journeys through this world. Stanford does not particularly enjoy walking on all fours, but there are currently bigger things for him to worry about.)
(His journeys take him to an old tree where an owl sits.)
Excuse me?
(The owl turns around to see Stanford approach.) Hello? Who are you?
Sorry if I startled you. (Stanford says, sitting down.) My name is Stanford. Does the name No-Feet mean anything to you?
(Owl seems confused.) That's what Little Bear's friend in the garden calls himself. Why do you ask?
I met him previously and I wanted to see how he was doing. (Stanford says. Technically, it's true that Stanford met No-Feet, right?) Do you know where I could find him?
(Owl looks a bit uncertain.) Actually, we haven't seen him in a few days. We usually find him in the garden at my friend Little Bear's house. However, his mother told us she saw him in their garden one morning looking like he was leaving in a hurry, and none of us have seen him since.
(This information leaves Stanford very concerned.) Do you have any idea where he might have gone?
Well, he never really went far from the garden unless one of us was carrying him. (Owl says.) That's part of the reason why it seemed so strange to see him leave all by himself.
(Stanford gets even more worried.) Well...thank you. I suppose I'll keep looking around. If you think of anything else or if you outright find him, please come find me. I have a very bad feeling about this...
Erm, alright. (Owl says.)
(Stanford heads on. He gets to the top of a hill and looks at the vast hilly plains. Given the amount of time that may have passed here between now and the season No-Feet was in, he feels that the snake could be just about anywhere. By the time he finds him, it might be too late and this new, evil version of No-Feet may have already hurt somebody, maybe even one of his friends.)
(Feeling that he needs to speed up this process of figuring out what happened to No-Feet, Stanford makes sure nobody is in sight and hits his recall button, immediately taking him back to Eye-Sicle's lair.)
Dagded Dujardin
New Year's Message
Xochi was busy working on Bale's base when he remembered the pre-recorded message that Bale had left for his friends.
Xochi: Well, hope this is quite to their liking!
The message had Bale saying a few words.
Bale: To all my friends, if you're reading this, then I'm not available at my base. But you gotta hear this still. I thank you all for being good friends throughout all this long year, we went through some tough times but we pulled through and I'm sure we'll pull through whatever comes next, Happy New Year to Everyone! May this new year bring prosperity to all!
He then sent this message to all the Nominators that Bale considered friends.
"Bingo! If two species hate each other, they will wipe each other out on their own."
Niiue
Distortion World
Scipion checked his email by curiosity when he stumbled across Psyche's email
Wait... Psyche? Out of all people? Why she would write to me an email-wait... A fanfic for me? Well shit, that's actually nice...
The Zoroark groaned and then got up.
I'll read it later, time for good old Scips to pay off. he thought, smirking. Soon, the Zoroark crafted with his own claws a small statue of Psyche, with one book in her hand, before sending it via a portal.
Expedition Society Headquarters
The Rescue Squad came back to the Headquarters for some mission after taking a rest. They were surprised when Lucian came to them with Proteus carrying items on a small cart.
"Father? What are those?" Tokage asked.
"We just received these items today. They came from 6k1. She wanted to give them to you three, as a late Christmas gift." Lucian explained.
"What? But... That's very nice, but we don't have anything for her! That wouldn't be fair, right?" Aaron said, embarrassed.
"Don't worry, I know exactly how to save the day." Alex said, grinning.
"We could send her some rewards and gift we received from past missions." Tokage suggested.
"Oh come on, I was about to say that!"
"Good idea! We could also send some to the other nominators and even people like Ralsei, we just have to sort them depending on everyone's taste."
"You are right." Tokage said, nodding.
"Got it!"
Soon enough, the team was finished and sent the gifts.
"I just thought about something. Do you think we should throw a party here for them? Like for the 150th season? Bale did one, Haze did another one, so how about us?"
"Perhaps if we don't have too many missions going on. Considering this will be a party outside of Panem, that would be interesting."
"Hell yeah! That also means they could turn into Pokémons!" Alex exclaimed.
"Oh yes, I forgot about that! I know that some of them have the means to travel to our world without turning into Pokémon, but that would be fun to imagine what they are going to turn into."
"In this insane place, love is all that stands between us and the great beyond."
Not an evil Thievul
Eye-Sicle's Lair
(Having arrived back at Eye-Sicle's Lair, Stanford notices a package that a package has been delivered to the lair and been brought in by one of Eye-Sicle's robots and looks inside. He finds figurines of a number of folks who have been summoned by Eye-Sicle, including Miss Ball, Jared, and the others.) Hmm, the people here must work really fast. (He remarks.)
(Setting the figures aside for the time being, Stanford focuses his attention back to the matter at hand. He goes to the main controls for the summoning room and sets it to pull in No Feet....but from BEFORE he was put in a season.)
(After a moment, a small grass snake sits in the middle of the chamber.)
...Huh? Where am I? Am I dreaming?
No Feet? (Stanford calls out to him.) ...I mean, that IS your name, correct?
(The snake turns to look out the window to see Stanford.) Yes it is. Who are you?
(He seems harmless so far.) Sorry for suddenly bringing you here, but... (He tries to think of how to put it.) There are some things I wish to speak to you about. If you would make your way to that door, I'll take you to another room and ask you some questions.
W-Whatever you say... (No Feet responds.)
(A short time later, Stanford and No Feet are in Stanford's living quarters, a rather small room filled with cheap-looking furniture and appliances and many, MANY papers and pieces of machinery Stanford has tinkered with over the time he has been here. No Feet sits coiled up on the coffee table as Stanford faces him.)
So, tell me a little about yourself, No Feet. (Stanford says.)
Okay, I live in a garden that belongs to my friend Little Bear's family. (No Feet replies.) I was born there all by myself, so I guess they're the closest thing to a family that I have.
(Stanford writes this down. Could the revelation that he never knew his biological family have been what made No Feet turn so bad before?) So you've never known your biological family? Do you ever wonder where they are?
Well...sometimes. (He says.) I go to sleep sometimes thinking about where they are, but then I remind myself that I have a bunch of friends who care about me, and that makes me feel better.
("Intriguing..." Stanford thinks. No Feet does seem old enough to have worked past any possible grief he might have about not knowing his family.)
(He moves to a different topic.) What makes you mad, No Feet?
Oh, I hate it when it rains. (No Feet says.) Rain's the worst when you're a snake. And I've had my food stolen before, and that always makes me upset.
Upset to the point that you would hurt someone? (Stanford asks.)
Well...no. I'd sure give them an earful, but I wouldn't hurt them.
Can you think of a specific time where you got upset with someone? Whether it's because they took your food or otherwise? (Stanford asks.)
There was that time some crows tricked Little Bear and I and we both got upset with them, but we're friends with them now. (He replies.) We even gave them their own little corn patch so they don't take any that belong to Little Bear's family.
(At this point, Stanford just cannot understand what happened to No Feet that pushed him into acting so horrible in season 125. So far, he just seems to be a completely cool-headed little guy.)
(He begins to wonder if the problem is with the tribute chamber itself. There was always that relatively low risk of something going wrong mid-summon. Perhaps when No Feet was originally pulled in, he was unlucky enough to have that happen to him. He decides to make sure of this.)
I see...erm, could you come this way? (Stanford asks, picking No Feet up.) There's something I'd like to check.
Northlands
(It's getting dark by the time the group reaches the woods near Sombertown in their search for the bandits.)
We've been wandering around for a while. You guys wanna take a load off here? (Wanda asks.)
I'm good and ready to. (Jared says, sitting down on a log.)
(Everyone has a seat. They've barely done so when Joaquin shifts into alebrije form.) We shouldn't rest long, fellas. We're running out of time. (He says, looking down at himself.)
So, you guys have any idea where we are? (June asks.)
I sure don't. Wish he had left with a map. (Wanda says.)
(There is rustling from nearby. Joaquin immediately springs to his feet.) I think we might have company!
(Everyone gets up as well, gearing up for a potential fight in case it's Knox and his gang. However, from out of the woods comes Kenny.)
Oh! There you are, Kenny! (June says.) Hey...uh, you okay?
I'm better, yeah. (Kenny says.) Sorry I ran out on you fellas. I panicked. Shouldn't have done that.
Hey, it's alright, dude. (Jared says.) I know I've been there before.
Yeah! We're here t' help ya! (June nods.)
Thanks...what are you guys doin' way out here, anyway? (Kenny asks.)
Knox and his gang are here, Kenny! (Joaquin says.) They were the ones who burned down Hermey's dentistry, and we're trying to find them before they do anything else!
Yer jokin' me, are they really here? (Kenny asks.)
The description the Head Elf gave us fit, according to Joaquin. (Jared says.) Coyote, hawk, rattlesnake, bison, cactus...
Well, if it's dark enough that Joaquin's an alebrije now, then that means they're probably ones now, too. (Kenny realizes.) And that means they're gonna be way more dangerous if they really are here.
(On the snow-covered cliffs overhead, the 'Brijes change form with the setting of the sun as well.)
Time to fly, gang. (Their leader says, stretching his colorful wings out.)
(The rest of the bandits mutter in agreement and take off as well.)
(Cleo, of course, wasn't entirely able to keep up with Kenny and is just now catching up to where Kenny found the others, and she is close enough that she sees several colorful figures leaving a cliffside. She immediately figures that they must be the bandits.)
(She lands herself on another cliffside and looks on to try to see where they are going. After about a minute of looking, she sees a town not too far away from where neither she or the bandits are now.) Oh NO.
(She lifts off again and begins worriedly looking for where everyone else is. Thankfully, Joaquin's own colorful glow clues her in to where they are now and she quickly descends.)
(As she lands, she addresses everybody immediately.) I saw them. I'm almost positive I did.
If they looked anything like I do right now, then it had to be them. (Joaquin says.) Which way were they going?
They were heading toward a town. At least, I believe they were. (Cleo says. She points in the direction of the town.) It was that way.
What're we gonna do? (June asks.)
I reckon I could try to get there before they do and warn everybody. (Kenny says.)
Joaquin and I could carry everyone else and fly there. (Cleo says.) If they're planning to attack this town, then there's no time to waste. Go, Kenny!
(Kenny thunders off while Jared and June climb on to Cleo and Wanda climbs on to Joaquin. They take off toward the town.)
Edited by kablammin45 on Jan 3rd 2021 at 10:46:20 AM
"Lucian, don’t be afraid, we’ll make it through this."
Braids From S286 Not Included
Power's Home
After a long day of partying, Power flops on her bed and opens her gifts. She gets a set of brown shoes, a beach towel, and a personalized album of herself hanging out with her friends from her family. The last one was made by Miranda, who had been secretly compiling them in the same album that Twilight's friends made for the latter as her coronation gift. It's no wonder that Miranda always wanted all the details, and Power tears up as she reads the "best gift ever".
She then receives a call on her crystal ball.
"Hey Ral! Long time no see! Heard you had fun at the Halloween party!"
Ralsei smiles. "Of course, I did!"
"And congrats for tying for 3rd Place in the contest!"
"Thanks! Anyway Power, how are you? Did you enjoy the holidays?"
"Heehee, yep! Sorry that I didn't get you a gift this Hearth's Warming because of the seminar Alphys and I had the other Panem day!"
"Heh, it's okay... but you had a seminar? About what?"
"Data clones, and long story short, 6k1 finally accepted them."
"That's good to hear. I never thought she'd be as stubborn as Susie, but I'm glad that 6k1 realized that her mindset was wrong."
"And I'm glad for her as well. And speaking of Susie, did she or Kris give you something for... whatever the Dark World celebrates every winter?"
Ralsei sighs. "No... I guess they were busy as always... It's pretty lonely in my world since Lancer's also busy ruling..."
Power rubs the top of her crystal ball to pat him.
"It's okay, at least you've got me, and I'm sure you got gifts from your other friends!"
He smiles again and unwraps the gift from the Rescue Squad.
"It's a Heal Ribbon!" he says to her, "and it says here that if I wear it, my wounds will heal a bit faster whenever I walk!"
"That's great!" says Power.
"But I'm not sure if it works for non-Pokémon..."
"Well, you'll never know until you try it!"
The Database Library, Basement
6k1 finishes cooking and sets the table for her family, with her attempted recreation of her mom's signature pie in the center. She gives Mimi one tiny slice and reminds her to leave some for the others while Dupe clones the leftovers. Asriel also gets himself a slice of the pie, but gags when he takes a bite.
"Sis..." He washes down his throat with water. "Did you ever take cooking lessons from Mom?"
"Eh... no, since I only visited her once, but my cooking's just enough to sustain me."
"Oh... so you just keep in touch with her on your phone?"
"Yes, as I'm a busy woman as always, but I took a vacation one time just to spend time with her in person and give her a hug!"
"Aww... and cooking also takes lots of practice, right?"
"Yep, and Ally, please setup the phone and TV so that we can video call Mom on the big screen while I open my gifts!"
Copy that, and Vengeful Bale wishes you a Happy New Year.
"Same!" says everyone while Dupe mews.
6k1 then clears her plate and opens her gifts. Besides the usual literary gift from Twilight, which is an anthology of all of Equestria's legends, she also receives a Reunion Cape from the Rescue Squad.
"What's it do?" asks Asriel.
"It says that if I wear it, I'll instantly warp back to my team if I get separated from them!"
"That's great! I saw Mom wear an earpiece back at GC's party. Did she use it to communicate with you while you were split up?"
"Yes, and my other guests wore them for their safety, and if this cape also works for non-Pokémon, then I'll wear this during the Voidlands expedition!"
6k1 also texts Psyche that she enjoyed the fic she sent her before Ally finishes the setup.
Edited by TroperNo9001 on Jan 4th 2021 at 4:02:49 AM
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
Kirby
The Spacepod
Kirby and friends left Psyche's School and left for other places. Thist time they go to Tabby's Base, where they offer her and Pecan a Kirby Nendoroid figure
◊ and a Bandana Dee figure
◊.
Star Angel Palace
Mr. Star receives a fanfic from Psyche; it's Kirby-themed. Mr. Star then sent a thank-you message to her. He also gets a New Year message from Bale, and he sent a similar thank-you message.
Edited by Oggy123 on Jan 3rd 2021 at 11:36:11 PM
An eagle
Billy's Mansion
About a day has passed in Panem universe time. As nominations continued as usual, with Doremy and Jack being sent to the Arena as usual after the duo decided to go as themselves, Chris and his colleagues decorated the Mansion and celebrated Christmas. They then shared gifts.
Chris got an unusual mechanical trinket, made by a small store in Kendor. Meanwhile, Natalie was gifted a sphere that could project a simulation of her home system. Finally, Fvearniyx got a magical amulet that could revitalize its wearer.
The trio, as well as some other workers of the Mansion then traveled to the Tribute's Village for the New Year celebration in terms of Earth Prime time, which was four days ago.
Tribute's Village
In the repaired settlement, Billy's tributes all decided to gather there after Chris invited them for the party, which happened during the eve of the New Year according to Earth Prime time. As a lot of individuals met each other, they were having various chats and introductions among the party. A particular chat stood out.
Sandy said, "That's nice t'hear Jotaro. I hope yer Foundation will support my science projects."
Closure also added, "Same. It's nice to hear that your universe has finally discovered that amazing tech. I applaud the Speedwagon Foundation's enthusiasm in this field."
Sanae then chimed in, "I've been reading about this technology when I was first in the Outside World, before Yukari made it as a fantastical version. I applaud your universe's scientifical progress. I would also like to learn the theory behind how your multiversal travel technology work myself."
Jotaro eventually says, "Thanks. We hope that with this new way of traveling, we can help more people, especially in matters relating to Stands, related phenomena, and other supernatural occurrences."
"Anyway, I'm excited for the new future that would be brought upon us. This include interacting with that parallel universe."
Kendor
Billy and his group had actually arrived in the planet where the headquarter of the Hero's Collective of Kendor was located back in the Christmas Eve of Earth Prime time. After Billy had a meeting with Zeitraum, he agreed to have his organization help with prison security. He also said that he and few of his heroes would be willing to spend the holiday with Billy after Billy mentioned that he would go on one during Christmas and New Year in Earth Prime time. Kayla did ask if it's a wise choice considering the citizen may need heroes to help them, but Zeitraum said,
"Don't worry. Our heroes are always ready to arrive quickly at the scene of evil even if we are on holiday. If you are curious why, it is because we have a magitek system of warning sensors and notifications, including this special watch that we all wear."
"We also have the cooperation of the police and even military of the nation, as well as certain mercenary groups to help our missions too."
The man then switched to his civilian clothing. It was a teal suit, as well as square glasses. He looked like a normal sharply-dressed, middle-aged man after this. He also placed a magical enchantment on himself that would make people far less likely to recognize him as the superhero. He also revealed to Billy after summoning a barrier that wouldn't let anyone hear the conversation, "Since we have been trusting each other at this point, I will personally reveal something to you. You know that the public doesn't know my true identity. I can say that my name is Dalton Clint."
Billy then said, "That is nice to know. I promise that I will keep this secret safe. After all we do not want something that the villains could get their traction on. As for me, I may be known to the public only as CEO Billy, without a surname. But I will say to you that it is..." Billy then said it to Zeitrau/Dalton, but the Fourth World audience themselves did not get to know it yet for now.
Billy and his group, as well as Zeitraum and few of the heroes the went on vacation throughout various planets in Kendor together. Billy also invited Sancaka for Arcturus. During the vacation, they went shopping and sightseeing. George and Kayla's relationship also got a bit of improvement as well. Billy also took his time to accept the gifts that he got from his nominator friends because he know through the notifications, as well as accept Haze's message. He also sent gifts to his nominator friends (except Scipion because everyone basically never liked him) that he bought from the stores. They were suited to what they need or like the most.
But before that part, Amiya signed up the contract between Rhodes Island and Eagle's Hawk Corporation. Soon, Billy's Clone also invited Amiya and the Doctor for some vacation in Kendor. The trio joined the main Billy's group after getting the message from him.
By the time they were all done, Billy and his group all returned to the Mansion, their Tribute Prison trip, Christmas and New Year's vacation all done. On the other hand, Zeitraum and his comrades returned to their headquarter. However, Billy is unhappy when he discovers that he has missed the season. As he sighs, he decides to read Psyche's fanfiction. It seems to be another crossover fic that feature the Spongebob, Jojo, Arknights and Touhou universes. His clone and servants also unpack the gifts for Billy that has been piling in the Mansion.
Akame ga Kill! Universe
In the frozen time, Esdeath plans to take the entire group by surprise, spotting some good potential points to make ice emerge from. She then unfreezes time after she finishes her planning. The villains, not knowing it as they were frozen in time, are taken by surprise as the ice start to grow at them. It threatens to encase or impale them quickly.
Palpatine then says, "I have to applaud this move. This is truly worthy of the Dark Side of the Force and I wish I can learn this. But take this unlimited power!"
Palpatine then releases an intense outburst of Force Lightning, shattering all the ice. He then uses another of his Force ability to bring down the roof on Esdeath, forcing her to summon ice using her Teigu quickly to protect herself from the debris. She then continues making barrier out of ice, as well as sending spikes when suddenly, she feels something hard grasping on her neck.
Palpatine's allies turn to see that he seems to be making a choking motion with his hands. They then release what he is doing. Palpatine had successfully put Esdeath under a Force Choke. They then listen as Palpatine says, "So, are you impressed by our massive might?"
Esdeath then tries to generate ice once more, throwing it at the direction of the Sith Master. This forces Palpatine to release his grip and retaliate with his Force Lightning again, but Esdeath dodges it. Surprisingly, she decides to concede, with a clearly impressed look on her face. She says, "So you all are truly worthy to survive in this cruel world and help the Empire. Very well, I will join your group."
Palpatine finally produces a sinister smile on his face, similar to the one he displayed to Darth Vader after his operation, as he says, "Good choice. Welcome to the Dark side, Esdeath."
Not an evil Thievul
Eye-Sicle's Lair
So, this big room could...scramble my brain waves? (No Feet asks as Stanford examines the tribute summoning chamber.)
It's possible. (Stanford says. For the sake of not worrying No Feet, Stanford doesn't explain that this DID end up happening to him, and removed all of No Feet's inhibitions in the process, turning him into the unfettered reptile that he was in Season 125.) You seem fine now, thank goodness.
My brain feels fine right now, I think. (No Feet says.)
Wonderful, I just hope that nothing like what I've seen happen before happens again. (Stanford says. He feels that maybe it's foolish to not expect another season 125 to happen again given the nature of these games, but, more than anything else, Stanford is hoping more that folks who seem to be fairly innocent like No Feet don't end up getting corrupted on a level like this ever again anyway. He makes a mental note to tell Eye-Sicle this once he gets back with everyone else.)
I think I've done enough for now, so I'll send you back to your home. (Stanford tells No Feet.) It's imperative that you don't tell anyone about what you've seen here today once you are sent back there.
I don't know, this place seems so neat! I'd love to tell everybody about this place. (No Feet says.)
I'd rather you didn't. There's no telling what could happen. (Stanford says.) Please go back there and live life like you have been.
Whatever you say... (No Feet slithers into the chamber.)
(As Stanford prepares to send No Feet back to Minarik Hills, he thinks about what he learned from Owl during his visit to Minarik Hills and how sad everyone was when No Feet (the new, evil No Feet, unbeknownst to them) disappeared. Instead of returning No Feet to the exact moment he pulled him from, Stanford sets the machine to send No Feet to the present so Little Bear and his friends will have the old, friendly No Feet back again. Unaware of what Stanford did, No Feet gives a small wave with the end of his tail as he is sent away.)
("Was I wise to do that?" Stanford immediately wonders after No Feet is sent back. "Oh, come on, now, Stanford, the Owl said they had never seen the bad version of No Feet since he got back there. As long as he never turns his face up again, everything should be fine.".)
(Stanford continues to convince himself of this as he leaves to attend to other matters.)
Sombertown
(Kenny arrives at the town first, ending up at the town's wall. He's about to turn to run for the town's entrance when he sees multiple colorful blurs flying by overhead. He gasps and quickly dives into a bush, hoping they didn't see him.)
(They keep flying away, but he knows that he has no time to waste since they're already over here. He springs from his hiding place and gets to the town entrance. Upon entering, the little stop-motion people in town are already pointing up at the sky, muttering to each other and asking if they saw the same thing they just did. A few of them see Kenny run in and treat the tall, bipedal antelope with a bit of confusion and suspicion as well.)
Y'all need to get inside and lock yourselves up tight! (Kenny says.) These colorful fellers you just saw up there are trouble, and they're liable to hurt ya if you get in their way! Now skedaddle!
(A few folks start to do that while others continue to chatter among themselves in worry...at least for a few moments until they all start fleeing for their houses anyway, and for good reason. Kenny spins around just in time to see the 'Brijes landing right behind him. As described by the Head Elf, they consist of a rattlesnake, a bison, a hawk, a cactus with a face, legs, and tail, and finally, a coyote, who lands the closest to Kenny. All are in an alebrije form just like Joaquin, and Kenny notices that they are all wearing strange bracers on their arms (or body, in the rattlesnake's case).)
Well, lookit who the cat dragged in! (Knox says, walking up to Kenny.) Fancy meetin' you in a place like this, Kenneth!
I'd say the same thing. (Kenny says.) What are you doin' here? Besides worryin' these poor townsfolk?
I'd ask you the same thing. (Knox says.) A lousy vagrant like yourself doesn't just get to a place like this by just runnin' there. Didja run so fast you ran straight outta our world right into this one?
That ain't none of yer business! Now you and yer group of varmints git! (Kenny says.)
Or what? (Knox asks.) Not only is it the five of us against you, but we're already in altered form! Think yer already at a big disadvantage, Kenny.
(As if to highlight this, Knox grabs Kenny around the arms and roughly shoves him to the ground. The remaining townspeople flee. Knox then grabs Kenny's ankles before Kenny can get back up and turns to the others.) Let's teach this feller another lesson, eh?
I mean, uh, shouldn't we focus on the plan, Knox? (The bison says.)
Oh, fine, you fellers go ahead. I'll take care of this joker. (Knox says.)
(The rest of the bandits leave while Knox turns his attention to Kenny, hefting Kenny up by his arms and ankles.) So how 'bout another round of fire, Kenny? (Knox sneers.)
(Kenny simply glares at Knox in response, though he inwardly hopes that the others get here soon.)
(Fortunately, Cleo and Joaquin fly into town with the others just in time to see what's going on.)
Hey, drop him!! (Jared says, leaping off Cleo and pulling out his scanner.)
(Knox is briefly surprised by the others' arrival, though he quickly takes notice of Joaquin's presence.) Joaquin? Now THIS is a surprise! What brings you here, sonny?
Do not call me that, Knox! (Joaquin says.) Whatever it is you and everyone else are planning to do here, we aren't going to let you do it!
Well, I'm sure your old friends have already finished with the main reason we're here at this point, fast as they work. Now all we have to do is hold the line until the next step of our plan arrives!
(At this, the winged coyote takes off, still carrying a struggling Kenny.)
Guys, what'll we do? (June asks the others.)
I'll go after Knox. You all find the others. (Cleo says, taking off after Knox.)
(Everyone runs off in search of the other bandits.)
(As Knox flies, he releases Kenny's arms and pulls out a fancy-looking communicator from his holster.) Howdy, Burgers, we've hit a bit of a snag with yer lil operation. Some old friends of mine somehow ended up here.
(A gruff and vaguely German-accented voice yells back indiscriminately.)
Yeah, we're keepin' 'em distracted! Guess you'll just have to "arrest" 'em, too. (Knox chuckles.) Heh heh, see ya in a bit.
Who are you talkin' to? (Kenny shouts.)
Heh heh, you'll see. (Knox laughs.)
"Lucian, don’t be afraid, we’ll make it through this."
Braids From S286 Not Included
The Database Library, Basement
While the others finish their late lunch, 6k1 continues opening her gifts. She receives a nightmare-repelling necklace charm from Billy, Blu-Ray copies of the movies that Sans made in S89 and 106, and a copy of Toriel's favorite book from her adoptive family. Smiling, she texts Billy a quick thank you, that Alphys is building the Cloning Capsule with her approval, and if he'd like to meet with her and Mimi at the park the next day. 6k1 plans to train her pet at home first, then take her out for a walk as part of it.
6k1 then starts the video call with Toriel.
"Belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Mom!" she says while her assistants all wave to her. "It's been a long time since I last called you and—"
Asriel suddenly bleats with teary eyes. Toriel cups her mouth.
"My child, what happened to you?! Where have you been all this time?"
Frisk, who's opening their gifts in the background, turns their head and goes to the camera, then gives Asriel an air hug. He returns the favor by hugging himself.
"Even if we're far apart, I don't wanna let go..."
6k1 lets them have their virtual reunion, but Mimi tries to take a bite out of Asriel's ring. The DM quickly yells no at her, startling her and Asriel.
"Don't touch it, Mimi!"
She curls up into a ball. "Sorry..."
"It's okay," says 6k1, "but Azzy might turn into an evil flower if he loses it!"
Toriel gasps while Frisk just nods, remembering his last words to them before they parted ways.
"Is that why you looked older at GC's party?" the mother goat asks him.
"Y-Yes..." he says, clutching the ring. "I was lucky that no one stole this while I was wandering..."
He then explains to his family how Giegue rescued him and reunited him with 6k1. Toriel likewise tears up and air hugs him.
"Do not be afraid, my child... for I'll also forgive you for what you did as him. I know it's going to be a challenge for you to readjust when you're ready to move back with us, but we'll help you in every step of the way!"
"And Alphys and I will do our best to find the cure!" says 6k1.
Asriel sniffles as the other assistants hug him, too. "Thanks..."
"And Mom..." 6k1 continues, "a lot has happened since Bale's party..."
Edited by TroperNo9001 on Jan 5th 2021 at 12:35:14 AM
"Rarity, are you okay? We gotta get you and your friends outta here soon!"
She/Her | inactive for now
More Late Holiday Stuff
After replying to 6k1 and Mr. Star's thank-you messages, Psyche receives gifts from Scipion (a statue of her and a book) and Billy (a painting of V.) She smiles at them and sends her own thank-you messages to both nominators.
Moving Forward
"Innie?"
I.N looks up in surprise. When was the last time Changbin had called him that? The other members had returned to using this affectionate nickname very quickly, but Changbin had just stuck to "Jeongin."
Until now.
"What is it, hyung?"
"I'm going to the gym. Wanna come with me?"
I.N's eyes light up. Though they've been civil with each other over the past few months, it's been a long time since they last worked out together. "Of course!"
Changbin smiles. "Come on then, let's go!"
"I was safe inside my bunker when it happened, Pow-Pow, so I'm fine."