Local idiot who is a sucker for cute 2d boys
Zone 3, Library ~ Kiel
I helped out a person, who was just looking for the bathroom. I mean, I don't mind people doing that, but that defeats the purpose of an Library. As I sighs, I heard someone singing outside of the library. It sounded something beautiful, yet could rival Aruem's music if one can. I decided to head out and was about to open the door when the singing stop.Zone 3, Streets ~ Teto
Once I'm done singing, I look over at my jar saw...no funds. No, really, I'm not even joking. Feeling disappointed in my endeavors, I pick up the jar as I hummed bittersweetly to the song I was singing just moments earlier.Zone 3, outside of Library ~ Kiel
I opened the door and looked at the sky first, but then I heard humming. I look around for the source and I saw an twindrill woman humming while looking sadly at the jar she pick up. Hey... I begin to speak as I walk towards her. Is there something wrong? Why do you look sad? “You bowl with 3 middle fingers” Oh hey, a troper wall
Mad Scientist
Zone 5, Back Alley; Nathan Grey
...a good man?
...
...
...
...no one has said that about me before. Sure, people thank me when I give them their biomods and such but...
...
...Is that actually true? Do people really not see me as a crazed maniac?
Have the sins of the UUU and of my birthplace not stained me forever?
...I need to go.
"I... I..."
...
"...Thank you, that is... very kind of you... to say... that."
...should tell her about how I'm moving.
"Uh, just so you know, I'm going to be changing addresses soon so... I'll try to meet you at your stall at some point soon to tell your where I will be found. Please don't tell anyone else. Especially not-"
...
I left that unsaid. I shouldn't really say that.
"...In any case... I'll see you again another day. Goodbye."
I walked away, somewhat shaken.
How could I be so shaken by those words?
Had I gotten so used to expecting to be the pariah?
...Need to distract myself.
Oh, there's a street musician over there. Maybe that'll work.
Huh, who's that with her?
Hmmm, judging by those odd indentations on his face, among other things, he has bionics. Neat.
Never really focused a lot on bionics, personally. I was really more of a wetware person.
Addmittedly, most of my more... out there ideas
, I was only really able to pursue once I ended up in Concordia. Part of my work as Dr. Black, alongside the hard drugs.
Luckily, I don't think anyone managed to trace any of those back to me, since it seems to have gone unmentioned by anyone. Of course, that's what I thought about my Dr. Black persona in its entirety, so...
Hmmm...
...Alright, back to the street musician.
I walked up to her, and hesitantly asked, "Hey, uh... do you take requests?" Briefly shooting a quick glance to the bionic guy.
Anti-Gnosis Weapon
Zone One, The Everlasting Diet
"Ehe~!" Chen leaned into the headpat happily, her pair of cat tails swishing behind her.
"I see. I'm sorry you've had it so rough, dearie," Yukari said, reaching over to give Areum's arm a sympathetic squeeze. "But you'll go with us? Fabulous! I'll be in touch to schedule a day later, but I should probably put forth my proposal before the entire rest of the Diet decides the session is over and it's time to go out for drinks! Ta-ta~!"
A feminine figure clad in a vividly violet dress and fuzzy purple slippers gradually rose out of the hole in space above Ran Yakumo, her long blonde hair and white bonnet adorned with vermilion ribbons resembling sideways eights. She hovered over the lip of the gap and then sat upon its ephemeral edge and somehow leaned back to rest her back against its upper limit, as easily as one might sit in a chair. This woman with sharp purple eyes and devious quirk in her lips was Yukari Yakumo, of the First Farers and House Yakumo, renowned and feared for her mysterious, hermit-like reclusiveness and mysterious, terrible power.
For a few moments, she sat there with her legs crossed and her slippered foot tapping upon Ran's stoic skull, and then she opened another small gap next to her head, which led to the Speaker's ear. In turn, he (eventually) managed to call the room to order, and handed speaking privileges off to her.
"My dear fellow Councilors," Yukari began with a gregarious smile once the Speaker had given his blessing, "it is well that we celebrate the places where we can agree, such as the removal of former Guardian Houraisan! That said, if I may have your ears and other auditory appendages for a few moments, I have a proposition to put before the Diet as well."
"I am sure a number of us are familiar with one of the greatest civilizations in the history of many Earths, the Romans. In olden times, the Romans observed that above all else, their populace desired two things in order to be content: panem et circenses, or bread and circuses. In other words, enough food to cover basic needs, and entertainment to consume their attention. Sufficient quantities of food will likely be more difficult for Concordia's people to come by until all of the EggTech that was once used in the city's farming operations has been replaced. Entertainment, on the other hand, is something that we can certainly provide them, and even enjoy ourselves!"
"The Romans provided their people entertainment through such means as theater, mock naval battles, and gladiatorial combat in their vaunted Colosseum. What I suggest is that we commission a grand tournament, funded partly by the Diet and partly by ticket, betting, and concession revenue. The ultimate prize? The 251st seat on this very body! Now, I do enjoy bloodsport, and I should prefer that the winner be someone exceptionally strong, as the Diet being able to project an image of strength to the populace is important, so I would like this tournament to involve combat to a large degree. I would also like to be in charge of tournament planning, along with a group of fellow Concordians whom I would select for their particular competencies and skillsets. I already have an existing venue and Master of Ceremonies in mind, in fact! That said, we are a deliberative body, and I am open to debate."
"Thank you. I cede the floor." The Gap Youkai leaned back into her makeshift seat made of gaps, and took a sip of her appropriately-named drink.
Zone Five, Residential Street
The cyborg, or perhaps android, says that I am unlikely to know any of the songs he would request, so I nod with a look of apology. He also asks about why I am collecting donations, so I reply while slowly plucking up and down the scale on my guitar.
"Even before today's disruptions due to the collapse of Ivo Robotnik's technology, this Zone has only just emerged from a fierce gang war. A particular kingpin simply going by the name 'Greed' was taken out days ago, and the war was over who would inherit his rackets and turf, as well as opportunistic attempts to take pieces out of rival gangs. I am not very in-tune with the criminal underworld, so I am not completely certain of who came out as victors in the gang war, but I know that the people who lost during the devastation were the residents of Zone Five."
"Given the Diet's past behavior, it's exceedingly unlikely they'll come to the Zone's aid, so we're fundraising in order to help the neighborhood's rebuilding efforts! We're hoping to put on a larger charity concert at some point as well, but that takes time to arrange, so in the meantime, this is what we're doing!" Matsumoto adds from the wall beside me in his nasal voice. "I'm Matsumoto, by the way, and this is Vivy!"
"Indeed. It is nice to meet you, Sir," I add to the mystery man with a smile and a nod.
Before we can talk much more, however, another gentleman approaches and asks if I take requests. "Certainly!" I confirm with another nod in his direction. "I am unsure whether I will know the song you request, however, given the multitude of songs in the limitless number of universes from which the people of Concordia hail. That said, please tell me your request, and I will be happy to perform it if I can!"
Zone Five, The Dappled Passages
The monk's eyebrows rose as if in genuine surprise. "Oh no, no, Yuudias!" he assured, waving as if to ward away the very thought. "I would never ask you for something I thought would harm those you care about! As far as the sort of thing I might ask as a favor, perhaps I would ask you to investigate some matter that I need more information about, or to act as a guard for a person or place for a day, or to transport an important package for me. I know better than to ask you for something that a good person like you would never willingly do!"
"So, what do you say?" he asked again with a genial smile. "Would you be alright doing a favor or two for me, my friend?"
Zone Five, Barovian Backdoor - Boys' Night
"Indeed we were!" Bondrewd confirmed with a nod. "As for what happened... Well, one second, Addward was going 'Ooooough' and agitating the protesters, and the next his flesh was suddenly rippling and transforming into a longcoat and sunglasses! I didn't see the moment his transformation started, I'm afraid - I was too busy keeping an eye on the mob, since they'd attempted to lynch him before he was whisked away to safety not a minute before. I've no idea if he innately had the ability to transmogrify or if it was the influence of some kind of external power..."
"In any case, Addward proceeded to start attacking the crowd, and Prushka and I were separated, though to my relief she checked in with me later. I used Gangway to disarm Addward, but it didn't seem like the rest of the Good Samaritans or I were making any progress in stopping him. So, rather than fight a losing battle in the midst of the chaos, I absconded with another friend who happened to be there, and we headed back to his place in Zone Five, through what's now new Kiryuin Militia territory."
"But enough about me, Leonardo! Has anything interesting happened to you lately - besides the EggTech fiasco, I mean?" The scientist took a sip of his drink as he waited for the younger man to reply. Theophilus' entrance earned a turning of the Draughtsman's head, but he just as quickly dismissed the Houraisan from mind and returned his attention to his drinking partner.
Edited by darksidevoid on Oct 12th 2022 at 6:38:02 AM
GM of AGOG S4: Frontiers RP; Sub-GM of TABA, SOTR, & UUA RPs
Salacia Persei Elimo; Zone Five - Streets
"Please don't," Elimo said reflexively upon seeing Benkei bow. "And my name is a sufficient mode of address. I would not expect you to exalt someone you have just met." The mention of Greed took a little longer to register, and shock - was that fear?- rippled across her face for a moment, but all she said to that was, "I heard Greed had vanished, but not of your involvement. With luck, we can repair some of the damage the instability has caused."
She turned to Amaterasu. "I cannot say I have been in your exact position, but I understand that you regret not helping when you could." A wan smile flashed across her face. "Many of the gods in my world were as far from-" she came to a sudden halt, as if distracted by a sudden catastrophe, then continued as if nothing had happened "-self-improvement as they were from the people. I suppose it is refreshing, in a way, to find one so committed to both." She smiled again - a genuine one this time, or at least close enough to it.
She started to say something more, then stopped and turned to the new arrival.
"Any help you can give is appreciated, but there is of course the matter of its distribution," she told Maggie, "The militia, I have heard, is focused on salvaging what remains after the Eggtech disaster. I do not know what the Peacekeepers are doing, but my hypothesis is that they are in communication with the Diet over the general situation in the Zone."
"As for what we are to do, that is a mighty question indeed. I would leave the floor open if anyone wishes to put forth a proposal."
- - - -
Idunn; Zone Five, Happy Eggy Confectionery Warehouse (Defunct)
Officer Kasuga flies through the roller shutters before crashing into the ground. Someone yells Galactic Spray Aria and the pink explosions continue. The commander lands, impacting the ground and trailing pink smoke.
It is stranger than usual today.
Officer Kasuga looks incredibly injured, so I leave my post and walk over to him. I try to tell him to seek medical attention, but I am interrupted by a small woman with electronic eyes and a shotgun who offers him something that will "take the edge off". She looks upset, and I do not see why until I notice that she is glaring at Officer Kasuga, who she presumably knows well given how she addressed him. She must be concerned for his well-being.
"I was not aware you were authorized to participate in this operation," I say to her. "You must defer to the commander's judgment on this matter. If he decides that you should not be here, I will escort you away."
This woman seems to be very young - if she is a woman at all, and not a teenager - and acts like it. Whatever her cause is, she is devoted to it, and judging by her reaction to Officer Kasuga's state, she cares deeply about her friends. If she is declaring her intention to help, it is at least a good way to ensure she comes to as little harm as possible.
"Of course," I say, "if the commander approves of your presence here, I cannot turn you away. Your presence may be helpful." Another explosion occurs behind me. "If that is the case, we may develop a strategy for investigating the warehouse that involves you. Is this acceptable?"
So, let's hang an anchor from the sun... also my Tumblr
huzzaaaaaaaah
Zone 5, Barovian Backdoor
A loud whistle pierced thru the den of hive and villainy, one that soon undulated itself with a faux cowboy twang that would make even the campiest of wannabe John Waynes blush. And instead of trying to hide or disguise itself, the source of the whistle rose from its corner of the bar, waving the crappiest beer in the world up in the air, that acceptable slosh scintillating inside of a dim green beer bottle.
And that is how the Drifter started a business meeting.
"Woah now!" The Drifter hissed down from the booth area, shielding his eyes from Theophilus' many medals, acting as if their glare was as blinding as the sun's light. "Soldier Boy, when I said 'don't worry about being inconspicuous,' I didn't mean you had to go and dress like the prettiest pig in town!" His vaguely pissed off demeanor soon gave way to a grin that traversed the line between shit-eating and baby-faced gentleman with the deftness of a trapeze artist doing a high-wire walk (while also smoking a big fat joint). "I'm just joshin', brother. Come on, sit down! You're surrounded by friends here."
"That ain't a joke, by the way." He added, moseying down the stairs so he could pat Theophilus in the back, pushing him towards the upstairs section. "I'm pretty sure at least twenty percent of the people in this here bar are on my payroll."
Clad in his 'casual greens,' the Drifter directed Theophilus to a booth covered in cigarette smoke that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere all at once. "You mind if I call you Soldier Boy, right?" He asked, flicking a coin with one hand whilst another tapped his fingers against the table- two distracting behaviors for the price of one. "I only ask because, after this deal we're about to make... yer gonna have so much money, you won't be anyone's soldier ever again."
Leaning back, the corners of Drifter's lips pursed ever so upwards as he ceased the tapping and grabbed the coin out of mid-air at the same time. "Ain't that everyone's dream, huh, Theophilus?"
Edited by Stratofarius on Oct 12th 2022 at 4:07:17 AM
The Diet, Zone One
Ancat lied. He’s not actually 6’9” - he’s 5’9”. It’s unknown why he’d lie about something so stupid and easily disprovable, but such is his nature as a stalwart libertarian with gamer characteristics.
Nonetheless, he is quite interested in Yukari’s proposal, and that’s the honest truth. He was interested solely because it would increase economic activity - that’s all he actually cares about, consequences of adding a new Diet member be damned.
“A capital idea! I offer my full support for Councilor Yukari’s proposal - not only will it lighten the mood a bit, but think of the ticket revenues! Oh, and we could have our very own Councilor Areum doing a pre-show to give the games a little more content! It’ll be great!”
Areum then gets up unexpectedly.
“Actually, I won’t be doing that. I don’t support this proposal.”
Ancat was shocked.
“Wait, what?! Why? I don’t understand… isn’t this basically your thing?”
“I don’t think this is a good way to induct a new Diet member. The real way we project strength is by having people that are qualified to hold their position and showing our commitment to fixing up this city. Besides, being able to win a fighting tournament hardly makes you an able leader. I reject this categorically as the main deciding criterion.”
“I… but… Now hold on a second. I feel like this is exactly the sort of thing you would’ve called ‘poggers’ not too long ago. You’re on the cutting edge, you’re extremely marketable, this isn’t like y-”
Areum wasn’t having any of it today.
“The time for poggers has passed. Nothing will be ‘poggers’ ever again, as far as I’m concerned.”
Ancat was stunned. What was just said was ludicrous on its face, but it carried the weight of someone announcing the end of a great age. He really had no idea how to even respond to this, or what the hell was going on. After a moment of blinking with his mouth open while both Areum’s supporters and various capitalists stared at him in anticipation, he eventually gave up.
“...I… I cede the floor.”
He slumped into the background. He had taken what he thought was a safe dive, and ended up plummeting into the concrete of an empty pool.
Breath of the Sun
Zone One - Everlasting Diet - Swain
Yakumo's motion fails, albeit by a much narrower margin than he was expecting. The rest of the motions go as he anticipated. Truthfully, the Peacekeepers hardly needed a budget increase, particularly with the number of people he expected to remove for corruption in the coming weeks.
A basic rule of negotiating. Always ask for more than you actually want.
There is one thing that raises a modicum of concern, however. Areum is acting far more mature than usual. Swain had taken her for an arrogant blowhard. Like Draven with candy hair and ludicrous bosoms. But she now showcased a surprising amount of critical thought. He'd have to revise his appraisal of her threat rating going forward.
Focusing back on the discussion, Swain gives the Gap Yokai a raised eyebrow, but then nods as she explains her proposal for a grand tournament.
"I, for one, wholeheartedly support this idea." Swain gives a rare smile. His smiles, as a rule, aren't pleasant to look at. "I understand your apprenhension, Councilor Areum, but consider: we are perceived as closed off and uncaring about the populace. What better way to disprove such things than by allowing even a layperson the opportunity to join us, and add their own perspective to this humble body."
The actual truth, of course, was that Swain valued strength above all else, and was genuinely happy for the opportunity to grant power to someone who truly deserved it. But he'd never say that aloud.
"Though if the Diet is opposed to granting a seat to the winner, I'm certain we could find some alternative prize. In any case, I must agree that such a tournament would be a wonderful distraction for the public. I cede the floor."
Zone Five - Barovian Backdoor - Susie
"Hey, Prushka." I wave lazily at the weird albino lady. She seems familiar but I can't quite place why. She's wearing a Draughtsman shirt, so I've probably seen her with one of them, maybe. Never talked to her though. "You smoke?"
I manage to get the hookah heating and take a long draw, letting the smoke sit in my lungs as long as I can.
That's exactly when the Peek walks in. The big Peek on the block. The one who's in charge of the whole Zone. I can never pronounce his actual name, but I know it sounds kind of like Theofuckface Whoreson.
He looks at me and asks about my shirt, and I sort of cough-hack out a laugh, snorting smoke out my nose holes.
"Yeah, hating cops is pretty popular." I say, and before I can stop to think I follow it up with the first insult my brain can think of: "But not as popular as fucking your mom."
Then, weirdly, the Drifter shows up. He does a cool fight arena thing sometimes. I don't know how he knows Fuckface, or why they both showed up at almost the same time, but then I remember, right, he's a cop, of course Fuckface does illegal shit on the side.
I give Drifter a grin and a thumbs up before going for another hit on the hookah.
Zone Five - Streets - Amaterasu
"Heh. You're just like Auntie. She doesn't like people being all formal, either." Benkei gives Elimo a grin. A grin which quickly shifts into raised eyebrows as Maggie approaches.
"Well, that's a shocker. I guess you really don't take after your mother at all. I can relate, I guess."
Amaterasu recognizes the last name. It is interesting, she thinks. She has felt the spark of divinity from Blair Nightshade, before, and Maggie has it as well. But where Blair oozed greed and ambition, the girl before her seems genuine in her desire to help. "Helping hands are always welcome." She greets.
"Yeah." Benkei agrees. He turns back to Elimo a moment. "And yeah, Auntie helped send Greed packing. She and Everett, and a few others, like Witch, the Guardian of Zone Six. Witch is one of the people working hard on this place, actually. Her and Satsuki Kiryuin."
"I hear Lady Kiryuin has been helping those in need." Amaterasu says, musing aloud. "Waka tells me that she is quite the community leader, of sorts. I was hoping to speak with her at some point, though I know she must be terribly busy. After Greed fell, the people who once followed him began to fight for power, and she was left to clean up the mess. I feel bad, for causing that."
"Not your fault, Auntie." Benkei sighs. "Place was a powder keg waiting to go off. My useless cousin wasn't helping. Wouldn't be surprised if Theo was taking bribes. But what's done is done - now, we have to focus on helping."
"Yes." Amaterasu's tail slaps on the ground, as she looks between Maggie and Elimo. "I believe that the people of this land must unite. I haven't the power to bring them together, but I can support those who do."
"The Tao Troop are prepared to stand with the Shrine Well Militia." Benkei explains. "I don't foresee it coming to outright civil war, but there's gonna be more violence, here, and we figure Kiryuin is the best at stopping that. I'd advise you get in touch with Kiryuin's group if you haven't already. Don't need to join them, but letting them know you're an ally couldn't hurt."
"And of course, I will patrol this Zone more often." Amaterasu's look is solemn, but determined. "Though it pains me to fight my children, there are few who can match me in combat. My presence will hopefully act as a deterrent."
"Don't worry, Auntie." Benkei grins again. "After what happened to Greed, I'm pretty sure no one would be stupid enough to fight you."
What is so amusing about this? Why do you take lives? How can you forget?
"Honestly in gang warfare there's often no winner. Only really victims," V noted.
"Poetic statement? Speaking from experience?" Johnny asked.
V chose to ignore him and continued. "Shame we can't... actually..."
"V the fuck are you thinkin'?" Johnny asked.
V looked to Johnny and continued. "Well my construct choom, you've got an encyclopedic knowledge of music in that head of yours? Think we could-"
"Absolutely fuckin not. Your vocal chords aren't even designed for proper screaming."
"Not what I was thinking."
V gripped onto his left palm and pulled out the chord for his personal link. "I think I should be able to share some musical knowledge of where I'm from."
"You do this, I'm having her sing Never Fade Away," Johnny responded.
Local idiot who is a sucker for cute 2d boys
Zone 3, streets ~ Teto
Huh? As I look around, I see a small person. He was looking concerned about me. Was it because I was humming too sadly or something? Eh, whatever, I gotta ease the kid's mind.I'm fine, don't worry. Oh, by the way, where's your mom?
Zone 3, outside of the library ~ Kiel
Ah, I see. So, she's fine, that's good to hear. However, the moment she asks about where is my mom, I felt like I'm experiencing color failure. I'm not a child! I'm old enough to run the library.Zone 3, streets ~ Teto
Wait, he's the person that runs an Library?! ...But, why a person that looks like a child? Eh, whatever, I can ask Teddie about that later. Oh, I'm sorry about that. Anyway, this is just something I shouldn't ask outside, but do you have books about the history of music? “You bowl with 3 middle fingers” Oh hey, a troper wall
Mad Scientist
Zone Five, Resident Street; Nathan Grey
Songs, songs... Hmmm. Sure, I definitely heard a few growing up, but since most of those were likely made on the Rimworld.
...You know, it is kind of weird I never learned the name of the planet, now that I think about it.
Oh well, I can take a moment for the cyber guy to give his request to think of-
Huh. Weird, he seemed to be looking at something for a moment there.
I looked at where he was looking so as to try and see for myself what he looked at.
Hmmmm... doesn't seem to be anything there. Strange.
Areum, Zone One, The Diet
“I actually agree with the main points you’re bringing up, Councilor Swain. I do think it’s high time we opened up the Diet to the laymen, and I’d even go as far as saying that at this point, the insular invitation system we’ve used for years has likely served its purpose. Perhaps it made sense back when we were struggling to even create a country, but I don’t think it makes much sense to continue it - for precisely the reasons you’ve stated. Civil unrest is rising, and maintaining such a closed doors selection process is a poor idea at a time like this.”
Truthfully the invite system was always bullshit, and it’s difficult to really to deny that after seeing what the Diet has turned into. I mean, fucking Greguya? Seriously? We’re rife with a disgusting amount of nepotism, corruption, and people who should not be trusted to operate the cashier at Wendy’s, let alone rule over a city. And besides that, there is another issue that puts me at odds with how the Diet operates.
I’m a communist. Socialist. Whatever the hell label you want to use. My credibility in this respect has certainly been questioned before, but it’s the truth. I’ve certainly had my issues with the DPRK in the past - perhaps I could be called ‘reformist’ - but it’s not because I’m clamoring for some sort of western style democracy. Not at all. Those get captured and corrupted by capital quicker than you can blink. Infighting is seemingly just in the nature of people of our political stripe - so it goes, I guess. This isn’t really something I mention publicly, because the Diet is right wing as fuck and would never support most of my ideas if I laid them out plainly. That’s part of the reason I just gave up and played the fool - it helps me blend in better with them. The real Areum is dangerous and goes against ‘Concordian values’, but the fake hyper capitalist popstar is right at home in a shithole like this one. Perhaps the latter has totally subsumed the former at this point - I don’t even know anymore.
I cannot express any of this publicly. I know that much. This puts me in a rather difficult position as far as where I should go from here. Hm. Perhaps I can at least cast doubt over the particulars of Yukari’s idea.
“The issue where we disagree is on the matter of how the selection process is run. As proposed by Councilor Yukari, this contest rewards the strong and gives no consideration to any other qualifiers - actual leadership ability and intelligence being the most obvious oversights. Why should only brawn, and not brains be factored in? I’d ask this of you. Say there was someone who was smart. Who had the support of the people. Who could navigate these discussions with grace and poise. And on the other side, let’s say there’s someone who is selfish, who is cruel, who cares about nothing but themselves and their own interests.”
…No, the irony isn’t lost on me. I know I’m talking about all of us.
“But they’re bigger, stronger, more able-bodied than the former person. In a contest of strength, they win quite easily. Suddenly at these meetings, we have to contend with the reality of someone with great power but little moral integrity or political competence becoming a Councilor. We were just talking Darien and Blair a moment ago, yes? I doubt there are many that could best them in single combat thanks to their magical prowess, but I cannot imagine anyone would seriously claim that gives them a right to have political power.”
To be honest… it actually kind of does, doesn’t it? At least if we’re using the criteria by which we invited everyone else. Why is Jengbish here? Because he’s the most brutal, violent, and powerful. Why is Kaguya here? Because she’s the most cunning and manipulative. Why am I here? Because I have a powerful charisma borne pretty much entirely of malignant narcissism. Because we were in the right place at the right time. None of us have earned this privilege in any real way. That’s the problem I’m having with making an argument here - it’s so very difficult to make any sort of appeal to morality when we have no legs to stand on. Save Eggman at this point, I cannot deny that I’ve done far more damage to this city than the wealthy elite through my inaction and complacency - probably more than Darien is ever going to do during his time here, frankly. It is the job of the government to reign in the upper class and provide for its citizens, and I have failed in both. All of us have, to varying degrees. That is why it would be entirely justified, at this point, for the people to rise up and kill us all without mercy. And I’m starting to feel like maybe I should just let them, the more it weighs on me what we’ve actually done to this city.
…I’m really starting to lose the plot at this point. And the motion is probably going to pass anyways, so… God, who gives a shit? I want to leave.
“Those are just illustrative examples of power not necessarily being indicative of leadership ability, ones that were on my mind because they were brought up earlier. I personally would rather have a contest that focused more on brains than brawn, as that is what matters in our day to day operations. What would that look like? Could strength perhaps be a qualifier in tandem with intelligence and leadership? Admittedly, I’m uncertain of these questions - a departure from how we’ve been doing things for all these years would require serious deliberation and would go well beyond the original topic of Yukari’s original proposition besides that. Here’s what I will say regarding that: I don’t mind a fighting tournament if the prize is changed to something besides a Diet seat. And I’m in favor of opening up Diet membership to the public in some form or another. I just don’t really think this is how we should do it. I cede the floor.”
Maggie, Zone Five, Streets
I nod at Benkei’s comment about my mother. He’s right, of course - we have our similarities, but I’m very different from her in all the critical ways that matter most.
“I’ve spent most of my life in Concordia - I didn’t spend years upon years upon years in some other world, only viewing this city as some sort of prison like… well, her. I’ll have to leave Concordia some day for my own personal reason, but I’m still invested in what happens to this place. What I’ve seen in the outer zones is… heartbreaking, and I feel the need to do something about it. It’s hard to really even know where to begin in terms of what needs to be done, particularly with how ravaged by violence Zone 5 is now.”
That reason being that I must do everything I can to restore my home world to its former glory, or at least make it better. It was ravaged by greedy people who used up its resources and left it in a most regrettable state - a warmed climate, ecological tragedy, and issues of a more supernatural nature as a result of the irresponsible use of magic. Many powerful players were to blame, but House Nightshade certainly played a role in things turning for the worse. And so, that daunting task awaits me once my journey in Concordia comes to an end.
Benkei brings up the Militia, and the violent tensions that still linger in the Zone. Speaking of which, I imagine there’s very little chance that I’ll get out of Concordia without staining my hands in some way. Either Brand is going to force the issue, or the various people who want to hurt my mother through me will, or maybe the path I take will put me in direct conflict with the Diet itself at some point.
“I’ve met with Guardian Witch before - she comes to me for magical items from time to time. And I’ll be sure to let the Militia know that I’m willing to lend my aid. Be it the artifacts I can give them, or… more direct assistance, if that is required.”
When Benkei and Amaterasu talk about the need to fight, I presume they mean the criminal elements that still remain. Maybe some vengeful ex-peeks who are likely getting fired as a result of this whole mess. I hope that’s all that we’ll have to deal with - this city is reeling from violence and the destruction of our infrastructure. I do not wish to see this city turn into a crater as the Diet jealously guards its treasure.
My mother doesn’t believe Concordia has a future. I don’t know if all of us can prove her wrong, but I know that we’re at least going to try.
Edited by HilarityEnsues on Oct 16th 2022 at 4:52:43 AM
Alex Mercer - Zone One - Diet Chambers
"Promises, promises," you answered Yukari with a wry smile. A new figure came into your peripheral vision. "Afternoon, Areum", you said, lifting up your glass as she approached and accepted a drink herself from your mutual guest. "I'd ask how my fellow assassination target was doing, except you're here instead of off somewhere else having fun, so obviously shit's fucked." The accompanying smile was more half-hearted than usual because it was easy to tell something was off, and not just with her. Kaguya hardly ever acknowledged her descendents, Witch actively avoided speaking to the Diet, and the Diet never, ever managed more than a 70% majority on any votes you'd ever witnessed.
It was curious how the only Guardian not present was Theophilus. They must've felt confident that he would be removed from his station, or wanted to avoid giving him a chance to defend himself. Not that that would've done him much good when his dear grandmother openly eviscerated him. Theophilus was done. You knew what happened to the Houraisans that got denounced; The rumors said their livers were especially prized. You'd even managed to scoop one of them up before he was left to rot in a gutter. Good times, good times.
That didn't matter, though. What did matter was that Lady Yukari had just raised another proposition, as most of your compatriots were attempting to jettison themselves from the meeting chambers and out into somewhere more habitable, most importantly with plenty of booze.
A tournament. Bread and circuses, she said. The grand prize, a seat on the Diet. You leaned forward, resting your left elbow on the table and your head in your hand, your right still lazily cradling the glass you'd half-finished. A distraction would buy some time, sure, but how much? It was all but guaranteed to be entertaining, but nothing would distract from the bloodletting in the streets, or the fact that half the City no longer had functioning appliances, if they'd ever had functioning appliances.
There was some support for the idea, and then that imbecile monetarist cat unfurled his miserable maw for the second time today and Areum laid into him. You raised an eyebrow, disrupting the bored frown that graced your face. Now this, this was interesting. Areum loved calling things poggers, and she never turned down a concert. And so, after she ceded the floor, you spoke up.
"So why not both, then? Make it two seats. Host this tournament of strength for one, and we come up with another contest for those less martially inclined for the other. Or set up the rules of the tournament so raw power isn't the primary factor in victory. I'm in favor of a tournament, but if there's only a single seat on the Diet up as reward then it needs to be based off more than strength, or the prize changed. The Ship-Scientists and medical research teams could certainly use some fresh blood. Hell, a bunch of our infrastructure just got turbo-fucked, put out a call for ideas on how to get everyone back on their feet as quickly as possible and give out a seat as payment. But if we go that route, we need to accept input from those who aren't already established in the industry. Creating another Robotnik isn't going to help anyone in the long run."
How'd things end up like this? you wondered. Not the destination, but the journey. Fourteen decades of decadent rulership and open negligence of the populace could only lead to such a result. No, how did Areum, the idol frequently only regarded for her obnoxious voice and even more incredible figure, decide to genuinely approach politics in this cesspool? Things might be progressing more quickly than you'd anticipated.
"I cede the floor," you said finally. You glanced towards the pop star, frown now slightly more inquisitive than before. "Any plans this evening, Areum? I've got other business to deal with first, but if you're serious about this, hit me up. I can probably find some way to help out."
Local idiot who is a sucker for cute 2d boys
Zone 3, outside of the library ~ Kiel
Ah, so you want to learn about music history then! I only have one in stocks, so please wait for a moment. I went back inside to look for the book she needed.Zone 3, The library ~ Kiel
I look around at the bookshelf in the history section and found her what she needed. I then head back outside to give it to her.Zone 3, outside of the library ~ Kiel
Once I come out and making sure she is still there, I give the book to her. Here you go miss...um, what's your name?Zone 3, streets ~ Teto
I nod as he heads back in. As I was waiting, I realized that I don't have a house to sleep in, which is not great considering the fact I just as new as someone arriving in this place.However, my thoughts were broken the moment he got the book for me. I then realized I haven't told him my name, so that's one way to realize it. Name's Teto. And, you are?
Zone 3, outside of the library ~ Kiel
I'm Kiel, so nice to meet you too, Teto. Anyway, why don't you stay at the library for awhile. It's open 24/7. I know it does sound like a weird flex and all, but hey, at least I allow those who are homeless can sleep in there. “You bowl with 3 middle fingers” Oh hey, a troper wall
sword of promised halp
Zone Five; Outside The Happy Eggy Confectionery Warehouse (Defunct) - Ichiban, Idunn, Rebecca
The pimps call it sweet pink, but to everyone else they're girlcubes. Girlcubes are cheap. Girlcubes come in little paper squares. Girlcubes make you feel pink and fuzzy inside. They are universally attested to taste of girl. The more eloquent say that they taste of lost summers and long drowsy days, like desks by classroom windows or pink envelopes. Some claim sweet pink makes you sparkle. The particularly sensitive begin to cry.
Girlcubes, in and of themselves, are relatively harmless. The problem starts when you take too much.
Actually, that's not true.
The problem started when they were made.
"Hey! Drugs are illegal! Where's Jengy?"
Officer Tsukino, touting the official line with all the gusto in her tiny frame, skids to a halt in front of the sliding door. Violet follows, ducking briskly under a pink blast that singes her hair and sends a trashcan flying.
"Oh my God," says one of the Peacekeepers. "Why are you here?"
"To observe," says Violet. "Officer Idunn, do you require assistance? I am not currently cleared to use lethal force, but I can if the situation calls for it."
She is looking at Jengbish's smoking form. You're not sure if she's thinking of something to say, or if she's already said everything she has to say.
Officer Tsukino frowns.
"Something's weird!" she proclaims. "It's just not right!"
You stare at her, wondering if it's too late to throw her over the pier and be done with it.
"What do you mean?" says Violet.
Officer Tsukino puts her hands on her hips.
"That person in the factory who's shooting at us — she's a good guy! I know it!"
You have no idea what passes for good in Tsukino Usagi's strange mind, but she's saying it like she believes the earth is round.
In order to produce girlcubes, Greed rounded up female spellcasters of a certain persuasion. They all spin, they all have stupid catchphrases that they use to change into horribly gaudy outfits, and they all have the fatal flaw of being completely unaware of their potential for violence. They fire beams, hearts, stars, butterflies and any number of cute and cuddly death blasts, all of which seem to be as deadly as required.
Pax Primis sent Jengbish because they thought he'd be enough.
They underestimated the magical girls. You're not even sure how many there are. There could be fifteen, or just one. They could be brainwashed, or they could just be protecting their paycheck, or they could be convinced that you're trying to kill them, which you just might. It doesn't matter, because at the moment you can't even get in there.
"Lovely Heart Delirium!"
Violet's eyes widen.
"Get down!" she cries.
The factory glows pink, then incandescent white. The hearts streak out of the door, then strikes the pavement like so many meteors. Glass shatters. Metal screams. A Peacekeeper flies straight into the wharf, blown like a leaf or a speck of sawdust, chest and face broken by fairy-cake light. You didn't know hearts could shatter breastbones.
Officer Tsukino vanishes, hit square in the face by two. When the dust clears and your ears and eyes stop ringing, you realize that she's still there.
No bruises. No scratches. Not even a dent. She's standing in the middle of a little charred crater, and the only thing on her is the soot. She looks around at your scattered forms, then blinks, as if she's surprised you even went down.
"See?" says Officer Tsukino. "I told you she was a good guy."
Zone Five; Closer To The Entrance But Not Inside Of The Happy Eggy Confectionery Warehouse (Defunct); Jengbish, Ichiban
"This is my wand. Queen Isis gave to me because my heart is pure."
You were not obliterated by the Lovely Heart Delirium, because Jengbish was there. You were able somehow to dive under him, so that the bulk of the wave passed over you. It felt like a billion needles pricking you in places you didn't know existed.
You can see the factory from its gaping hole. The whole place is broken. The benches are crushed, the ventilators are laughing, and the lights overhead are swinging wildly. It smells sickly sweet, like burnt soda.
Pink dust is everywhere. You can feel the girl irradiating everything. Little cupcakes dance inside your vision, accompanied with classroom banter and whispers of a golden-haired prince on a white horse. Everything turns abruptly into frilly black cut-outs, then goes back into focus.
"You think you can win, but I can see inside you. You can't win. You're bad, and you'll lose. That's why I can hurt you. Because you're bad. That's why I'll win."
Stumbling towards you, with a white plastic rod clasped in her gloved hands, is a girl in a bright pink dress. It must have been a dress, once upon a time. It's poofy, just like the ones they have at cons, but the frills are tattered and the lace is torn. Her eyes are wide and haggard, and as she staggers and coughs you see vomitus dripping, dribbling out of her mouth and onto her bodice.
It's yellow. Pure bile for the pure of heart.
"Ma..."
She doubles over, groaning, then turns the groan into a bloodcurdling wail. There are cat's ears on her head. They are torn and bloody and matted. As she spits and raises her head, her eyes crazed and bleeding pink, you see that she has a single broken fang.
"Magical Girl Rosy Bastet!" she screams. "Love tells me to kill you!"
You feel like confessing to someone.
Edited by troydenite on Oct 22nd 2022 at 6:57:56 AM
'Being around you guys makes me go "wtf" instead of pondering the ever increasing dread of time' - EchoingSilence, 2023
Knuckles the Echidna
Then the hierarchy of power in the multiverse abruply changes when Black Adam flies to the scene...
Edited by TheOther36 on Oct 21st 2022 at 7:57:52 PM
One thing I have learned in pledging my life to this quest is that I have been betrayed again and again. And again. And again.
sword of promised halp
Zone Five; Barovian Backdoor - Drifter
Theophilus Shinkansen Houraisan, ever-forgiving, doesn't even blink when the purple lizard girl insults his mother. You know he's callous, but you've never thought he was petty.
"I am a Houraisan," he says. "Our women are not known for being paragons of virtue."
But if he wasn't petty, why did he open the door?
"Still, I'd watch my mouth if I were you," he says. "My men aren't nearly as forgiving."
Okay. Maybe he is petty.
"Good day."
Theo turns around and follows you across the room into the booth, shutting the door behind him. When he sits down, his medals scrape against the side of the table with a cacophony of clinks.
He looks a bit older today. Maybe it's the light.
"I can't do everything you want," he says, without even acknowledging your choice of nickname. "I can deal with your permit, I can detain interlopers, and I can make sure my men look the other way."
He removes a ragged manila envelope from his pocket and slides it at you. Inside are all the legal papers required to run a mass gladiatorial event, including the waivers, the security arrangements, the disclaimers for death and injury, the forged medical clearances, and the little infrared tags that make sure every Peacekeeper in Five will look the other way.
"What I can't do is take your money," he says. "I have enemies on the Diet, even in my family. Greed's gone, so they can't ignore me. Kayne Ainsel was the last straw. I know they'll strike soon. Those papers are probably useless."
He has removed a serviette from the little serviette box. His long white fingers are twisting it, slowly, into a demented paper crane.
"I'm not going to go quietly," he says. "My men trust me. Not the Diet, not my clan, not even Jericho Swain. Me. I'm the only one who's ever given them anything more than spit and lies. If I give them the word, they'll fight. You..."
He looks just past you, at a spot past your left earlobe. His eyes are like pockmarks on the moon.
"Tell me, Drifter. Out of all the places you could call me to, why here? You know who owns it. Are you trying to get me killed?"
Zone Five; Streets - Amaterasu, Elimo, Maggie
"Oh! Great goddess!"
A ragged woman stumbles to clutch your paws. You think she's bowing to you, but then you realize that she's somewhere in-between you and Elimo, so maybe she's bowing to both of you. Her hair is tied in a graying bun.
"Great goddess," she mumbles, "my son..."
The request is simple, as far as supplications go. The woman is the mother to an only son, who was in his youth a great supporter of Concordia and the Diet, but in his rebellious adolescence has hearkened to deviant philosophies. As a matter of fact, he's been missing for two weeks, and the woman fears that he may have fallen in with dangerous elements.
"He's so young," she moans. "If the Peeks catch him, oh, I don't know what they'll do. Please, help me find him. Get that nonsense out of his head. I found this in his room."
She offers a single tattered poster. On it is a message, scrawled in bold, strident red:
"It should smell of him," stammers the woman. "Of them. I don't mean to ask just because you're... a wolf... but - oh, goddess, please..."
Edited by troydenite on Oct 23rd 2022 at 1:26:36 AM
'Being around you guys makes me go "wtf" instead of pondering the ever increasing dread of time' - EchoingSilence, 2023
Local idiot who is a sucker for cute 2d boys
Zone 3, streets ~ Teto
An Library that's been open 24/7 huh? Well, if he's okay with it, then I guess I can stay there.Yeah, that sounds fine to me.
I decided to head in since I'm sure I needed a quiet to read. After all, I need to learn what music I need to not only help out the rest of the music industry, but also maybe befriend Aruem
Zone 3, outside of the Library ~ Kiel
When I heard she decided to go in, I was glad and shut the door quietly behind her. I already left the notes at the front desk should she be looking for me.Now then, I should take my daily walk while helping others out should they need it.
Zone 5, streets ~ Kiel
Walking in the streets of Zone 5 sounds peaceful, even if it's still...well...Zone 5 stuff. But, I don't mind it all since that's what makes each Zone unique.Sure, there's some trouble brewing in Zone 5, but it's not that bad as Eggman. At least, that's what I think.
“You bowl with 3 middle fingers” Oh hey, a troper wall
Zone Five
A New Voyage! Aboard The Great Ship Concordia (4)
Well then- the monk's job were reassuring enough, and with that guarantee, Yuudias felt confident he could offer his help. After all, helping people is what they did at UTS! (Writer's note: UTS stands for 'Ultraterrestrial Trouble Solutions', the agency where Yuudias works on Earth. It's not as serious as it sounds).
"UTS! I will gladly help you out then, sir!"
He replies enthusiastically with a bow. And just a moment later he catches his hat from midair, as he unfortunately bowed a bit too much. Still! He'd just made another friend! That was good! Or so he thought.
Prushka was one body that Seija had no particular understanding of or care for. Round face. Wide eyes. Talks about concepts above her. Weird hair. Who makes their hair all multi-color like that anyway? A girl in a room of women. Maybe she was older than them, who knows, but it never felt as if she was an insider. A couple half-nods served as her acknowledgement of her.
The other visitor though, the dead cat in the gutter-looking one. Black hair clogging the drain. Proof that everything related to one mountain valley was right and truly fucked. The moment Theo entered the room, Seija's eyes never were too far away from his own decaying form. He talked, and she remained locked on him with a cool apprehension; not spite or rage, only a clear focus. Something more like the cat that sees a bird across the street, held back by a thin screen. Even as Susie's joke went over she barely gave out a weak "ha." as she was hypnotized by his being there. The other bum that walked in, smug-ass, clearly a pusher or something, escaped her attention as well.
...Back to that analogy. A short realization as Theo was lead to another room, and they were alone in an awkward silence. The jukebox's music was hazy with the age of its record. Was there really a screen keeping this cat in? The hierarchy of power has changed; was he really protected by anyone now?
A grin slowly spreads left and right; her canines, just a little too sharp and pointed to be human, came into view. The intoxication didn't hamper her at all now, as the familiar drive of a terrible desire started to push itself into the forefront of her strange mind. Something for her and, hopefully, everyone. A team-building exercise.
"Let's jump him."
She looks away from the booth Theo turned toward, and at the rest of her party. "Just wait for him to get done with his dealer or whatever. There's five of us, four if Prushka wants to sit out. We can take him." A short, excited breath escapes her. "Don't you think we need to make it clear that the people aren't going to let things end so cleanly? Don't you think it'd be fun?"
Local idiot who is a sucker for cute 2d boys
Zone 5, Streets ~ Kiel
As I was walking, I ended up hearing some lady screaming about her child being missing for two weeks. Curious, I decided to walk over to her and try to calm her down.Hi, sorry to interrupt in front of who you're speaking with, but I'm a part of the Peacekeepers and I need you to calm down and take some deep breaths. Once you're feeling calm, can you tell me what's the last time you saw him and what you have been doing for the last two weeks?
Normally, I would work at night, but there are times when there's something urgent, and I would instantly help them with that. After all, it's a job of a peacekeeper.
“You bowl with 3 middle fingers” Oh hey, a troper wall
huzzaaaaaaaah
Zone 5, Barovian Backdoor
After the customary nods and 'enjoy that pipe,' the Drifter settled into a resting smirking face as he and Theophilus retreated to the reserved booth. The smirk remained in place even as the dotted up police officer prattles on and on about shifting allegiances and a change in the horizon. All the Drifter does is purse up his lips even more, until by the end they're in a smug formation that somewhat resembles the number three.
"Aw, Soldier Boy's worried?" He chuckled, propping his feet up on the table as he scooped the manilla envelope and opened it with his nails. "Careful. You've got so many medals, shakin' in your boots oughta make you more noticeable." Flipping thru the papers, the Drifter let out an approving whistle, and then slide the envelope into his suit, tapping it so that it fell neatly into a pocket.
"Let me tell you why I brought you here, Soldier Boy." With a wave of his fingers, a drink order was made, and the Drifter's feet remained on the table, practically wiggling his boots back and forth to try and block Theophilius' sight. "I like danger. I like chaos. People think of that word, and they think disorder. Not me. You say chaos, and I hear a chance for somethin' stronger to emerge. Seen it happen too. And every time, some fancy pants fella in a suit comes in and puts some order to the thing. Gives themselves a stupid sounding name, like President. Vanguard. Diet."
The Drifter pulled his feet back and shrugged. "I mean, we all agree that name's stupid, right? Sounds like a girl's drink or somethin'."
"And that's why I brought you here. To remind you that we come from chaos, and we eventually all go back to it." For the first time in the conversation, the Drifter's smile disappeared. "Now, Soldier Boy, you're gonna take that cash, and you're gonna use it. You don't wanna spend your personal apocalypse eatin' canned food, now do ya?" And then, just as quickly, it came back. "Or maybe I can put your money into some wise bets. It's gonna be a big tournament. Bigger than any I've done before."
Lifting an invisible drink, the Drifter's smirk turned vicious. "It's gonna rock everyone's world, trust me. And once it's done, the Diet are gonna realize there's a new game in town. So if you really think the house's about to go down... why not plead allegiance to a new boss, hm? I'm right here. I could use a lackey or two."
Edited by Stratofarius on Oct 29th 2022 at 7:31:32 AM
Transcender of Gender
Zone Five, Barovian Backdoor
Leonardo Watch - Boys Night
For the briefest moment, a sliver of a second that lasts a lifetime, you see it. You see the ripple across still waters, the movement of immovable stone, the renting of all that once was- what will continue to be, as the moment is gone as soon as it's begun, but still, you see it. You see the shift. The comet that tears through the endless dark of the night sky, plaguing the known with indomitable light. It changes everything in the second so that nothing may change in the rest. Like a dying star on the edge of existence, its passing known only to those blessed with the luck to see it flicker atop the tapestry of-
Leo burped.
"Egh, pardon me..." He waved down the bartender, leaving the rest of his current drink to Sonic as he ordered something a little lighter. What had he just been thinking about...? Ah, that's right, Addward. "You know, I'm not even that shocked? That guy always seemed one bad day away from blowing his top completely. Though... it is pretty surprising that he'd be able to get one better on you in a fight."
Leo couldn't offer much for speculation. Addward was, quite literally, a hundred different currencies in Leo's eyes. Trying to pry any further had always been headache-inducing.
"Anyway, um... Oh! Not "anyway". Matter of fact, we were actually looking for Addward all day. You know how Councillor Areum nearly got taken out? I, uh-" He hesitated. It wasn't that he didn't trust Bondrewd (okay, he didn't entirely trust Bondrewd, but sue him, he'd only been here for a month), but rather that he didn't want to bring up Brand if it wasn't necessary. "Well, I ran into her while she was investigating her attempted assassination. Apparently, the magic that was used to try and kill her has some sort of connection with Addward. So we went looking for him, but- well, you know why we didn't find him."
He watched Sonic for a second as the primate made like a drinky bird and ducked his head into the glass, lapping up the ever-decreasing amount of alcohol. Leo then scratched his hair, awkwardly hesitant. "So, um... how is Prush? Did she seem okay when she checked in?"
J.J. Macfield - Girls Night.......2!
You think about Tintin as you make the walk from Zone One to Five, the fragrance of fruits and flowers blessing you as you pass down a street that had been derelict not an hour before. He's a coworker, which you like, because you can easily categorize it next to "fellow student", but he's also friendly, which is a problem for you. If people are too friendly then they become friends, and are you really equipped to deal with those? That immeasurable gap between "Emily" and "everyone else" has become something of a safety net, saving you the bother of navigating the unknown- and, more importantly, protecting you from prying eyes. Had you been a little stricter with your boundaries, pushed Lily away when she'd gone prying, perhaps you wouldn't be here right now, trapped in a city that wasn't a city at all.
These thoughts only worsen when you arrive at the Barovian. Ratka greets you at the door with a kiss on your hand and a stamp quickly after. Danika calls your name when you try to slink by, twirls you around, and directs you up the stairs and to a room at the very back. You know Witch, which means the Commune know you, and that terrifies you for reasons that have nothing to do with their fangs. You're very careful to maintain a veneer of unremarkable courtesy, never too bright to be remembered and never too cruel to be hated. Your hope is to be forgotten, not even sprouting amongst the wallflowers- and yet, still remain those who almost seem fond of you. If they're fond, it must be because they've snuck a look through the cracks, and it's only a matter of time then before they find something you don't want them to.
You take a moment to gather these thoughts and jot them all down in the notebook of your mind; much less impressive than what Tintin's has to offer, but no less of a delight for your therapist to peruse later.
You make your way down the collection of private booths, met on all sides by a menagerie of music and a familiar, musky scent. For a second you almost feel like you're back at college. You wave the smell away as you reach the end of the hallway, acknowledging Brooks with a wave and an inappropriately polite smile before you escape into the privacy of the final empty booth. Here the music is quiet and tinny, and the air is bitter with the all-too-familiar scent of roasted beans. A freshly brewed pot awaits on the table, alongside a box of your favourite delight.
Well... perhaps being known is not always so terrible. You let out a deep sigh, the weight of the day and that of your handbag both collapsing to the floor as you throw yourself down onto the seat. Your posturing is forgotten for a blessed moment as you cram a doughnut in your mouth, barely letting the sugary mess tumble down your throat before you have another in hand.
noooo JJ your calorie intake nooooooooo
Shut the fuck up FK.
Zone Five, Happy Eggy Confectionery Warehouse (Defunct) - Ichiban Kasuga
No shit, is that who he thinks it is?
"Becca!" he yells, returning the girl's wave and traipsing up to her as she flings some friendly cussing his way. "Could ask you the same thing, kid. All the explosions and screaming didn't tip you off to head the other way?"
It's a rhetorical question, of course, because it's Rebecca he's talking to. He takes her offering as she explains her reason for being there, his pained squint growing deeper as he examines the weird device in his hand.
Looks like something you'd plug into a computer, but apparently it works on humans too? Good thing you never paid attention to those PSA's about not taking weird drugs.
Hmm. Well, whatever doesn't kill him... Making the (perhaps dubious) call to trust in what Becca gives him, Ichiban takes the injector in hand and jabs it into his neck, wincing not at the pain- because he's already got plenty of that- but at the sensation of liquid pouring in where it usually doesn't.
+150 HP
+25 MP
Bleeding status removed
Hot damn if it doesn't work though. He feels his bones re-aligning into their correct spots, his cuts sealing themselves back shut. It never fails to feel bizarre (probably looks a fair bit strange to anyone expecting him to heal like a normal person) but the discomfort is quickly supplanted by the return of his energy. He feels a billion yen, like he can storm back in there and dole out twice what he'd been given.
Buuuut he doesn't, because while he is that stupid, there's other issues to take care of first. "Thanks for that," he starts with, not forgetting his manners. He tosses the empty injector back to Rebecca as the rest of the Peacekeepers converge on them- Idunn, to be expected, and Usagi and Violet, not expected at all. "Hey, hey, it's one thing for Becca to be here-" Ichiban has his reservations about that too, but he knows that she can handle herself, maybe even better than he can, "-but this is way too dangerous for you two kids to be getting close. You need to get out of here and leave this to-"
"Lovely Heart Delirium!"
Well... it's a good thing that Ichiban's superior officer is made more of metal than he is flesh. Unfortunately, he still seems to be out for the count, leaving Ichiban and Idunn as the ones in charge. As a small favor the girl seems targeted on him for the moment, and not on the rest. It's strange, though: she hasn't transformed yet. And he doesn't mean in the sense that magical girls are supposed to do, but in that she doesn't look any different than when Ichiban first laid eyes on her. Maybe she's not actually that much of a danger?
Oh, never mind. Still, Ichiban feels like his mind's trying to tell him something. While he tries to figure that out, he speaks to the rest, keeping his voice low and his eyes on the enemy. "Alright, change of plans. Idunn, Becca, see if you can't get Usagi to the factory while I keep this girl distracted. If there's something worse in there then Usagi might just be the one who can handle it- and if there ain't, then you can ambush this one from behind. Violet, you keep trying to get Jengbish up on his feet."
Ichiban hopes that all sounded confident and authoritative, because he doesn't actually have a fucking clue what he's gonna do next. Oh well, thinking was never his strong suit anyway. He brings himself up to full height, resting his bat against his shoulder in an almost casual manner as he starts walking towards the girl. "Bastet, is it? Are you really sure that killing us all is the right thing to do? Wouldn't that just mess up that "pure heart" of yours?"
He tries to be confident, maybe even goading, but... he can't muster the energy for it. He doesn't want to fight her. She's just a goddamn kid who needs to go the hospital. The bat suddenly feels heavy in his hand, and so- in face of all common sense- he lets it clatter to the ground. "Neither of us needs to "win" here, Bastet. We just wanted to shut down this factory- and now we have, so we don't need to fight anymore. I'm not gonna hurt you."
Witch - Zone One - Diet Chambers > Zone Five - The Barovian Backdoor Special
As you left the Diet chambers you did your utmost to remain outwardly stoic, appearing neither pleased nor dissatisfied with the results. It was, after all, merely business. You had a job to do, and orders to carry out. It was as simple as that. As you stepped back out into Zone One, you let out a sigh and rolled your shoulders. You had walked into that chamber expecting to leave with nothing to show for it.
What had actually happened was you got everything you'd wanted, an outcome you were utterly unprepared for.
The Diet wanted to host a tournament to distract from their monumental incompetence, so let them. You had work to do, contacts to reach out to, messages to relay. Once word got out that Theophilus Houraisan had been ousted from his position, a new wave of violence would rock Zone Five. They needed to be ready. You needed to be ready.
Which meant you needed to get there before that happened. Fortunately, the wheels of your celestial steed were equal to the task; You'd be there in no time.
It hardly took a moment to pass along the necessary information to the Mantle and ensure they got the right person to forward a message to the Militia. More bloodshed was coming, and there would be no shortage of mercs ready to jump at the chance to bring down vengeance upon the soon-to-be-ousted Peacekeepers.
But you still had some time to finish a little information gathering. One of your targets was, for once, seemingly not present within Zone Five. An easy enough problem to resolve in due time.
The other was next door, waiting in the bar you owned as requested. It wouldn't do to keep her waiting, and thus you snuck in through your favorite side entrance- the air vents. Brooks was used to your antics by this point and passed a folder across the table towards you as you coalesced nearby. More intel. You nodded at him, and whispered "Houraisan is on his way out, and unlikely to come quietly. Get ready."
"Always work with you, huh?" he replied. "Never just stop by for a drink or a hello."
"I'll sleep when I'm dead," you answered, and he shrugged, shaking his head with a wry smile.
That just left your guest. And though you were here on business, you'd shifted your armor to something more relaxed-looking. A leather bolero jacket, blue jeans and biking boots. The shirt you were "wearing" bore a bizarre fanged mask on the front, similar to depictions you'd seen from the far east, and a word - or more likely a title- in English that you were unfamiliar with. You could smell a pot of coffee from within the room before you approached the door, the work of the Commune, no doubt.
Inside sat one J.J. Macfield, intrepid reporter, devourer of confections and all-around resenter of her own existence. You knew immediately that the coffee was the Commune's work because there was a half-empty box of donuts in the middle of the table and Macfield was far too modest to broadcast her personal tastes like this. Your face sunk slightly upon sight of the box, before shifting into a bemused, resigned smile. They were trying to get you in trouble.
"I take it the treats are to your liking? I assure you, I'm not trying to bribe you with sweets," you said, taking a seat opposite her at the table, making sure you weren't blocking access to the doorway. "I hope I didn't keep you waiting long." You retrieved the second unused mug and poured yourself a cup of coffee. "Today has been... eventful."
She smelled like a suicide. She always did. Not of blood or bile or decay, but of misery. The kind that hid, whether out of shame or fear or both. The kind of quiet death that made itself known only once it was too late. She was not the first you'd met, but she was certainly the youngest.
Your upbringing told you she was pathetic. Unworthy. A wretched sinner, bereft of the grace of God, and deserving of the stake.
The building you were in, however, told you a simpler story. The same story it told of most everyone who spent any time under its roof, for this building was the home of those in search of a place to belong. The question was never whether she belonged here, but why. But the both of you knew the other had secrets. Neither of you had gotten this far without knowing when to stop digging deeper.
You sighed, stirring a scoop of sugar into your cup before taking a sip. "I'm sure you have many questions, as do I. I have no intention of mandating how you make use of this information, but I will require that you take great care regarding who it is shared with."
sword of promised halp
Zone One - Everlasting Diet
The Diet looks around at each other, decidedly nonplussed. All the ravens were thrown into the air about ten minutes ago, and no further voting was expected.
"Well, I suppose it couldn't hurt."
"We need to feed the Hist Tree somehow."
"I love it when the commoners pacify each other! We can take bets!"
"What's one more vote when we have so many?"
Mr. Speaker looks around. Nigel from Zone Six looks back, his bland eyes betraying no emotion.
"Very well," says Mr. Speaker. "The sixth issue, that a gladiatorial tournament be set up, with the prize a seat in this august body - all in favor say aye."
"Aye!" says Seto Kaiba.
"Aye!" says the small and benevolent Senator from Naboo.
"Aye!" says Prince Shotoku.
The chamber echoes around with enthusiastic ayes.
"All against say nay."
"Nay!" says Greguya. "I mean..."
He is buried under a chorus of boos, hisses, and unidentified flying objects. A tortilla is thrown.
"The ayes have it," says Mr. Speaker. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to retire for some lovely hunny. This session is dissolved."
Zone Five; Barovian Backdoor - Drifter
Theo doesn't flinch. He looks you in the face, staring through your smile, his eyes and mouth as narrow as ever.
"I'll assume you're joking," he says.
He doesn't say anything else, which is how you know you've cut him to the quick. Maybe not in the way you wanted to, and maybe not in the place you wanted to, but you did draw blood.
Somewhere.
"My great-grandmother talks about eternity," he says. "Jericho Swain talks about order."
He doesn't refuse the money. He counts it, going over every mark, before putting it into his breast pocket.
"And you talk about chaos. All these fine, made-up words."
The lines on his face seem harsher. You wonder when he started thinking about this.
"What I see is people who want things. I want things. You want things. We all want things, only I tell people what I want and don't hide behind words. Let's be honest. You know what I can give you, or you wouldn't be asking me to serve. I'm not serving you, so let's make a deal."
He looks quickly at the door, then back to you. His hands go on the table, steepled together, but you can see them twitching.
He's annoyed. He didn't plan for this at all.
"We work together," he says. "As equal partners. I have the force of law behind me for now, but once they take that away from me, I'll be just like you. Until then, I can give you as many Peacekeepers as you need, to do whatever you want. Set up a safehouse, shoot some orphans, do whatever you like to do in your spare time. It doesn't bother me."
He leans in. He smells like old paper.
"But in return, you need to help me move out. I need a place to keep my files. My men need to store their equipment. If you can lend me your network, then I'll give you mine. And then, when the chaos breaks out, we see what we can do together."
You can see that he's not used to bargaining with anyone. He looks even drier than usual.
"Final offer," he says. "Take it or leave it."
Edited by troydenite on Nov 4th 2022 at 2:57:25 AM
'Being around you guys makes me go "wtf" instead of pondering the ever increasing dread of time' - EchoingSilence, 2023
The closer she got to the dock, the more excited she became. Civvies scattering in the direction she came from, explosions and gunshots up ahead, and whatever that nasty mark in the ceiling was, all of it added up to one thing. The sights, smells and sounds were all different, but throw 'em in a blender and punch it and the goop poured out just like she was used to. She was back on her home turf again despite being an entire universe or more away.
There was another explosion, something bursting through a roof that her instincts and chrome told her was the dock, just up ahead. Both those things also told her the "projectile" was heading straight towards her. "Woah woah woah woah!" she shouted, deftly dodging with all the grace of a fully loaded forklift. Somehow, she narrowly avoided getting smeared into the paved road. She looked back towards where the shot had come from, then back towards the smoking figure on the ground behind her. Her optics once again helpfully informed her it was a person, and they were still alive. Power armor, roughly 85% organic, intense neural activity.
It was him. It had to be. The readings matched everything she'd heard.
"Fuckin' flash landing, samurai!" she said, turning to face Jengbish. "Blow any circs, or you still good to dance?" Something else caught her eye, another blast, another figure tossed around, now heading in her direction after picking itself up. No, not her direction, Jengbish's. She squinted. That singed mess of hair looked familiar. It couldn't be-
"Ichi!" she shouted, waving at him with her free hand as the sudden excitement got the best of her. "The fuck ya doin', ya gonk?!" Later than she should've, she realized there were more people moving about in and around the building. Peacekeepers. A bunch of them. At least, there were, before more of them ate beams from whatever was going on inside.
"Fuck me, 'course it's pigs," she muttered to herself with an irritated frown, sticking the barrel of her shotgun to the ground and leaning onto it. "Hate workin' with pigs." Nothing for it now, though, the chance to cut and run was long gone. As Ichiban caught up to her and Jengbish, she got a better look at his condition, then stuck her other hand in a pocket and fished out a small injector. Holding it out for Ichiban, she said "Tin Can's hard, he's fine. You look prime for a dirt nap. Hit it, choom, take the edge off." She was angry, the scowl gave that away well enough. Both at Ichiban for being reckless enough to get hurt, and at whatever it was that had hurt him. Nobody fucked with her friends but her.
She stretched her arms out and scratched the back of her head with her left hand. "Nabbed one of Greed's goons loaded with cubes, led me here. What's rocked you badges so bad they got Big Man himself out here on cleanup?" She raised her right arm up and brought the shotgun down to rest on her shoulder again, and gave a thumbs-up with her left hand. "You know I got iron ready if you got something that needs more holes in it."