[h3][i][b]A Game of Sorts[/b][/i][/h3]

Arthur was a wreck. Oni's lived up to their reputation that much was for certain, main reason Arthur didn't want to fight one in the games. But at least since he had to it was dealt with early. Now Arthur was sitting in a chair in the infirmary. Rollanda, or rather one of her nurses, informed Arthur that Iravis, the demon, and even Arata were going to be fine. Arthur actually looked forward to his next conversation with the oni, was bound to be interesting.

Standing, Arthur decided that since his team was down for the count it was once again all up to him to save the day. Or in this case solve the riddle. Of course, Arthur wasn't going to actually solve the riddle, he knew he wouldn't be able to. So the next best course of action was to find someone who could.

So, ask random people until he found someone? No because if anyone had figured it out it is because they also hunt for it. The spider in the library? Possible, Arthur wasn't taken aback by the girl, in fact she was rather cute. But the other possibility was frankly to interesting to not pass up. The person who could solve the riddle, was clearly the person who wrote it.

So Arthur made his way towards the director's office, it was a long walk, anywhere in this school was due to it's sheer size, and Arthur would have teleported but his mana was running on empty after that battle and hasn't had time to refill. So Arthur made the walk to A's office, then stood right outside the door to the waiting area and gave three solid knocks.

[color=pink][b]"Come right in, darling. It is open."[/b][/color] The director chimed from the inside. 

Oddly, he seemed as perky and energetic as ever, as if the incident with Victarian had never happened. 

Arthur opens the door, but doesn't step in, before calling over[color=9e0b0f], "Do you count the waiting room as part of your office? I would hate to intrude and you feel the need to keep good on your word involving anyone in your office within the next two weeks."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Anyone looking for the Alanteia family documents, dear. I hold no such animosity for those with different riddles."[/b][/color] He said, his ever present smile in his face. [color=pink][b]"So! To what do I owe the honor of having Mister Wick here in my office?"[/b][/color]

The man walked past his desk and towards Arthur, standing right in front of him with his hands behind his back. 

[color=pink][b]"Just so you know, I don't plan on giving the answer to the riddle. At least, not without you making some kind of effort yourself."[/b][/color]

Arthur had stepped into the room a single step before the director was right in front of him. Of course the man knew what Arthur was here for. Clear your mind Arthur, Clear your oh screw it, that won't work. [color=9e0b0f]"I don't intend to ask for the answer to the riddle. I instead want to ask where the treasure the riddle is pointing towards is."[/color] Arthur replied with a smile on his face,[color=9e0b0f] "Of course, you may not like that work around, so if I may take a seat I'm willing to try twenty other questions, assuming your not busy laughing in the corner of course sir."[/color] Sir, good word. This was Arthur's boss and being, wait, hold that thought, rather don't think that thought.
 
Anyways, feed his ego a little, ask some clever questions, hold his interest, save the day for the team. Or something along those lines. Or just have a amazing conversation with a madman, they make the best conversationalist. Of course, calling A a madman could end poorly. Wait, could he read thoughts? Why do you think you were trying to clear your thoughts. Dammit Arthur how are you suppose to do anything against a foe like this? Don't think of him as a foe, least he agree. Argh

[color=pink][b]"If you wish to live, I suggest getting your head out of whatever gutter you got it into and thinking straight. You have a rather low opinion on me, don't you? Fear not, mister Wick. I only attempt to kill those I find interesting, and I find you, complete with that dragon kill and all, utterly and completely boring."[/b][/color] the man answered with a smile. 

Well, it did seem like he could read Arthur's thoughts. 

[color=pink][b]"So, I ask you. What are you willing to do to get that information, mister Wick?"[/b][/color]

Well, thinking in any direction that could be considered straight would be hard. Arthur's mind had a poor habit of trying to be in six places at once even if he didn't want it to be. Hell, especially if he didn't want it to be. Regardless, A asked a question.

[color=9e0b0f]"I don't suppose it would be as simple and interesting as having a lengthy conversation with you?"[/color] Arthur asked.

[color=pink][b]"If that is all, then you should get out of my office. I've spoken with the best of philosophers back in my time, if you dare say that your talk is more interesting than that, then go ahead. I think we can play a game."[/b][/color]

A malicious smile appeared in his face. A game. Yes, perfect for keeping himself busy. 

A game. Arthur knew this was a gamble, hell, this was practically a form of suicide. The director was a powerful man, at least Arthur hoped he was a man. Regardless the end result of what happened here could be life changing. Likely not, but it could be. The fire inside Arthur was burning bright from the possibilities. 

[color=9e0b0f]"Very well sir. Few things pass time as well as a good game."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"That is more like it. My dearest, this game has no name because it is one I just came up with."[/b][/color] 

He extended his hand to the side, and what appeared to be a meter that read 'HAPPINESS' was on top of it. At the moment, it was empty. 

[color=pink][b]"Let's have a chat. If you manage to keep this meter at least in the middle, I will give you what you came here to look for. If it gets below that, I will start gnawing at your soul, slowly eating it away until there's nothing left of it. How does that sound? You talk, keep me entertained and if you accomplish that, you might even get more than you bargained for. Fail, and your soul will be destroyed."[/b][/color]

[color=9e0b0f]"I suppose I'm on the clock now then? Not even time to ask for something to drink?[/color] Arthur asked before saying, [color=9e0b0f]"Should we remain standing? From personal experience conversations are best held sitting."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Yes, on the clock might be a suitable analogy."[/b][/color] The man chimed, but with his next comment, the meter suddenly made a buzzing sound. 

Then, Arthur would feel as if a spear pierced through his chest, but the damage was not physical, it was spiritual. 

The pain would remain there until the game ended. A proof that the director was really serious about this. 

[color=pink][b]"Yes, we should sit."[/b][/color] The man walked outside the room and sat down on one of the colorful sofas that the waiting room had. He motioned to his side, encouraging Arthur to sit beside him. 

[color=9e0b0f]"Argh"[/color] Well this was serious. Of course, it wouldn't be much fun if it wasn't, been a great many years since Arthur had a real challenge. Hopefully this time he won't get cursed afterwards. Or his soul destroyed for that matter.

Taking a seat alongside the director Arthur decided that a drink was in fact off the table. Oh well, how to start this off then? [color=9e0b0f]"So, how's your day going?"[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Quite lovely indeed. I have had the chance to talk with an old enemy of mine. Hopefully, he'll stay out of my academy for a bit longer than I want him to."[/b][/color] 

The meter filled up a bit, with a pink-ish substance. 

[color=pink][b]"What about yours? Mind you, I already know. Tell it in a way that keeps me entertained."[/b][/color]

Arthur looked over at the man, and the meter. Well at least he would know when he was winning. Is it winning? No, not quite winning, rather not losing. Regardless, [color=9e0b0f]"Well, I came in to work today after my morning routine, and you of course gave your speech. Then before I could do anything a women beset me and imparted information you clearly already know, wouldn't want to bore you with it. Had some divine liquor, which was interesting."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"And then?"[/b][/color] The man said, crossing his legs in the most effeminate way possible. 

Arthur sighed before continuing, [color=9e0b0f]"Then a student got angry by my presence, and needed to be disciplined. That oni boy from before I'm sure you remember. He punched Iravis in the face, tore the arm off... I actually haven't caught that girl's name yet, actually feel a bit terrible about that now. How do you remember everyone's names anyways? But I'm digressing. The boy tore the arm of a girl, gruesome sight, blood everywhere. Swung her around like a damn club before her arm and herself separated. The girl managed to melt one of the boy's arms and a hole into his chest though."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Oh, bloody. I am sure 'tis was a sight to behold, because I saw it!"[/b][/color] The man chuckled, the meter filling up a bit again. 

Arthur would risk a glance at the meter if it didn't sound like watching a pot to make it boil. So instead he continued.
[color=9e0b0f]"I thought that if I burned away the boys heart he would stop, so I got him to look at me, imagine my surprise when I find the prick's heart was already half melted! So I did the next best thing while he jumped at me, I let loose and burnt the kid away to damn near nothing. I think he'll be fine though, sure he had fun."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Oh, I am sure he did. Unlike me, Arata has find many worthy rivals in this school. I am glad that this little playground entertains someone else aside from me."[/b][/color] He chuckled again. 

[color=pink][b]"And what about you, Arthur? It is exciting enough for you in this school, ogh for you in this school, or do you miss your dragon slaying days?"[/b][/color]

[color=9e0b0f]"I have to admit, the excuse to never be sober is missed. But most of the days back then were the same, at least around here you keep everyone on their toes."[/color] Arthur said with a slight chuckle. [color=9e0b0f]"Hell, I'm having a conversation to the very possible death, that beats dragon slaying any day."[/color]

The meter went up again, being just a bit before the middle, where Arthur wanted it to be if he appreciated his life. 

[color=pink][b]"I am glad it is to your liking, my dear boy."[/b][/color] He nodded and smiled again. [color=pink][b]"Let's then talk about our love life! Do you have any lady in your eyes, mister Wick? Or perhaps a man? The heart can be a whimsical thing, yes, it can."[/b][/color] 

he nodded and cupped his cheek with his left hand. 

Well, this was an interesting move. Arthur knew something like this would be coming, and his answer was likely to spell the difference between victory and defeat. No matter, he had defeated a dragon by force of will, this foe, no not a foe just a nice, not foe person, would be defe- talked to the same way. Regardless, Arthur's love life...
[color=9e0b0f]"Well, you might recall back when I was a student here and was on a team. That team that died fighting that dragon. I was actually in love with one of them, but alas, dragon. Been hard to find a meaningful relationship after that."[/color]

A deep sigh, [color=9e0b0f]"Your not going to be content with that answer though are you? Well as I'm sure you know my... my familiar came here, I think I saw what I saw in her in the past, not counting the obvious assets. And... I admit to having feelings one could liken to a forbidden love."[/color] Of course, A being damn near everywhere he could likely make a good guess, but being completely forthcoming with all information sounds more boring than anything, and like it would be a rather one sided conversation.

[color=pink][b]"Oh, but there's nothing bad with a forbidden love, is there?"[/b][/color] The man nodded. [color=pink][b]"And why is it forbidden, if I might ask? Why do YOU think it is not allowed for you to love your familiar? It isn't too odd for someone to fall in love with their familiar. Ah, yes, the spice of youth. How I miss the days I too could prance around like a maiden in love."[/b][/color] 

The meter went back down, somehow. Perhaps it was because of how A thought that he was being narrow minded. 

Seems A may have misunderstood. Of course saying that aloud would be- wait. Couldn't A? Dammit how did Arthur keep forgetting that. Well, might as well continue.
[color=9e0b0f]"No, not to say I don't have feelings for my familiar, but I also have... I also have my eye on another, a very percular student. A, dare I say a bad pun? I dare. A very hot student."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Oh ho ho ho,"[/b][/color] A bent down and hit his knee as he laughed, his voice stale and monotone. 

The meter went down again and this time, Arthur would feel a spear piercing his knee. 

[color=pink][b]"It was the worst pun ever. Don't make one like that again, will you?"[/b][/color] He added. [color=pink][b]"And yes, the forbidden fruit. You can reach for one, for Joulie, or reach for Iravis. In the end, you feel like you'll lose them both, or at least one of them. Something that you definitely do not want to do."[/b][/color] 

[color=pink][b]"But, haven't your familiar and you shared vows? Something that expresses your trust in one another?"[/b][/color] He nodded in response to himself. [color=pink][b]"There you have your answer."[/b][/color] And then he smiled maliciously. [color=pink][b]"She's bound to you for eternity, until you die or break off the contract. Joulie can't get away from your grasp, even if she wanted. Do you think not that you should take advantage of this?"[/b][/color]

Take advantage? Those word, well, thoughts left a sour taste in Arthur's mouth. Or, mind. Anyways. Of course, there was also that sharp pain in Arthur's knee, and the duller but still evident one in his chest. Wounds, but neither killing blows yet. Arthur could still yet fight. Was this a fight now? Very well, a battle of words and wits was still battle, though perhaps not a serious one for one of the combatants.
[color=9e0b0f]"If I was immortal then I believe I couldn't say no to that idea. Of course, from my knowledge I am completely mortal and having an angry Valkyrie over my corpse doesn't sound very pleasant. Don't suppose you have anyone in particular you fancy?"[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Don't try to change the subject, if you'd please, mister Wick."[/b][/color] He said, his eyes opening a bit. 

Arthur wasn't like Zan, he still felt fear, and gazing into the man's eyes certainly would strike fear into his soul, even more so than any dragon. 

[color=pink][b]"Tell me, do you wish to take the phoenix for yourself? If you do, you might want to train some. Some hardships await for you in the future if you truly wish to be together with the phoenix."[/b][/color]

As for his love interest, well, he should already know. Ever single man in Liseranna was good with him. 

Arthur realized he had made a small error before he saw the director's eyes. Or at least, what was visible of them, but even that was enough to frighten. Of course Arthur was scared, and also asking himself why the hell A had such curious eyes. Of course, Arthur couldn't break away from the director's gaze. To do so would to admit defeat.
[color=9e0b0f]"Hardships? Well, such things can't be evaded I suppose. Of course, that is for naught if I fail here eh? I doubt I could, 'take the phoenix for myself' completely. At least, not with a single human lifespan. Ah but I can try, I suppose it would be fun for you to watch regardless of the outcome?"[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Is that truthfully what all of your resolve paramounts to?"[/b][/color] The meter, regardless, went up, despite the man giving a disapproving shake of his head. 

[color=pink][b]"One would expect that after facing a dragon, there would be almost nothing a man would fear. Aside from clear exceptions, of course, but I guess one always feel like a young idiot when their hearts are trapped by love. Tell me, dear, what do you seek of this pursuit of love?"[/b][/color]

[color=pink][b]"Only carnal desires? Do you wish to do nothing more but to spend the night with her and toss her aside, or do you want something else?"[/b][/color] The man tried to make the conversation stay on this course, it seemed. 

That was a good question indeed. What did Arthur want from this?[color=9e0b0f]"She is of fire, my heart tells me to go after her while my mind reminds me of what could go wrong. It is rather annoying. I can't be sure why but after talking to you sir I think I'll follow my heart rather than my mind for awhile."[/color]

[color=9e0b0f]"Though I can not deny that she is also quite easy to look at and my mind goes to places it really shouldn't.'[/color]

[color=pink][b]"You don't have to tell ME that, darling."[/b][/color] He laughs a bit, and the meter goes up some more. 

[color=pink][b]"In any case, if you truly feel that what you should follow is your heart, then you've already taken a step forward, m'dear. It is only a matter of whether or not you'll act."[/b][/color] He winks at Arthur. 

[color=pink][b]"In any case, I am now tired of this conversation. What should we talk about next? Just in case you were wondering, you've already filled up half of the meter. We can end this wretched game if you like or continue, and I will give you that bonus I was talking about before."[/b][/color]

Arthur rubbed his knee with one hand before saying, [color=9e0b0f]"What would be the point of the game if we ended it before it was finished? I mean, my knee would disagree but I've had worse pains before."[/color] The pyromancer then asked, [color=9e0b0f]"Know any good jokes Director?"[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Oh, yes. Yes I do. How do you fit 30 jews in a single car?"[/b][/color] A seemed eager. 

[color=9e0b0f]"A good question, how do you?"[/color] Arthur asked, jokes were always the best.

[color=pink][b]"You fit two at the front, three in the back, and the remaining 25 in the ashtray."[/b][/color] The director then chuckled. Ah, dark humor was always the best. 

[color=pink][b]"What about you, dear? A joke you would care sharing?"[/b][/color]

Arthur couldn't help but laugh at the joke, not loudly or for long, a few good laughs before he pulled himself together.

[color=9e0b0f]"While it would be hard to top yours but I do have one. How does Hitler tie his shoes?"[/color] Arthur began.

[color=pink][b]"Well, I do not know. I never asked him. How DOES Hitler tie his shoes?"[/b][/color] He seemed more interested now. 

Jokes seemed to be a bit of a soft spot for the man, as well as romance. 

Regardless, the meter went up again, ever so slightly. 

Arthur waited a moment, not long least the joke be ruined. [color=9e0b0f]"He ties them in little nazis."[/color] Arthur finished, a smile creeping up his face at the pun. Hopefully this on was a bit more on point, Arthur didn't like the idea of both his knees being speared through.

[color=pink][b]"Now, that is a better pun than the last one."[/b][/color] The man nodded. [color=pink][b]"My turn then. A man storms into a bar, gun in hand, and shouts [i]'I'm going to kill whoever fucked my daughter!'[/i]. A voice at the back of the bar answers, [i]'You don't have enough bullets, mate!'[/i]"[/b][/color] 

Man, that was funny. Bloody hell why has Arthur not had more conversations with the Director? He'd have chats like this for free if his soul wasn't on the line.
[color=9e0b0f]"Haha, bloody hell that was good. I suppose that makes it my turn? Alright this one takes some set up."[/color]

[color=9e0b0f]"Mother Teresa was in, say, New York on buiness, but she still made time to go to the park and enjoy nature every day. She would go out with two of her nuns, the three of them just enjoying life. The three of them were sitting at a bench when a man walks up wearing a long coat. The man stops, looks to them, opens his coat. Stark nude. The two nuns faint and Teresa says, [i]It is alright my son, god loves you. Don't do it again.[/i]"[/color]
Arthur takes a breath before continuing, [color=9e0b0f]"The next day Mother Teresa is out there with two new nuns. The man comes back, opens his coat, still naked. The nuns faint and Teresa says, [i]No no, god loves you. You have to stop this, don't do it again.[/i] The next day Mother Teresa went to the park again, two new nuns at her side. They're sitting on the bench when the man comes up and opens his coat and he's still naked. The nuns faint but Mother Teresa says, [i]Oh those are nice, could I touch them?[/i] and the man lets her."[/color] Arthur then holds his hands out like he's cupping and feeling, [color=9e0b0f]"Teresa says, [i]These are nice, yes yes,[/i]-"[/color] Arthur then starts slapping his hands together violently, [color=9e0b0f]"[/i]Don't. you. ever. do. that. again.[/i]"[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Ouch. I can think of some people that could be the man that walked up to Mother Teresa."[/b][/color] The man answered, grimacing as he thought about it.

Arthur was yet to see the man have a fit of laughter, but perhaps he would be content with the meter rising in the stead of A's laugh. 

[color=pink][b]"Hm,"[/b][/color] He turned his gaze upwards, looking at the meter. [color=pink][b]"I think it is pretty much filled. Just for reference in the future, I love jokes."[/b][/color] He smiled as he put a single finger up. 

[color=pink][b]"Do you want to end this, or would you like to continue? I'm plenty sure you are eager to finish this conversation that could most probably end in your disappearance from the face of the Earth, though."[/b][/color]

Arthur shrugged, [color=9e0b0f]"It's a bit late to set out for wherever the treasure is, and it'll take time to gather the party beforehand so no point doing that till tomorrow. I've a bit more time to spare and you have once again found an interesting way to make something mudane life threatening and fun. Let's talk a few more minutes at least."[/color]

[color=pink][b]"Okay then, I will follow up with a joke of my own."[/b][/color] He then cleared his throat. 

[color=pink][b]"Two policemen stand outside a bar, with a dog on a leash. They are on the lookout for any shady business that might be happening in the outside of the bar. In any case, they are both concentrated in doing their patrols and whatnot, when a man comes out from the bar. He proceeds to lift the dog's tail and take a look at the dog's rear. Unsurprised and shrugging, the man goes back into the bar. The policemen look at each other, bewildered, but blame it on the man's being drunk. A while afterwards, another man comes out from the bar and repeats the process, looking at the dog's rear after lifting its tail. The two policemen look at each other again, thinking that this might start getting fishy, but lastly shrug it off, blaming it again on the wretched alcohol. A few minutes later, another man comes out and takes a look at the dog's rear after lifting its tail. Finally, one of the policemen asks him, [i]'Why are all of you coming to look at the butt of our dog? You are the third one today!'[/i] The man, already tipsy, answers, [i]'Well, rumor has it inside the bar that there's a dog with two assholes outside the bar.'[/i]"[/b][/color] 

He then awaited Arthur's reaction. 

Arthur listened intently on the joke, halfway through stiffling a laugh as he remembered the punchline, then laughing outright as the joke ended. [color=9e0b0f]"How am I going to contend with that? I already used the Teresa one, I suppose I'll turn to a blond joke. You don't mind do you?" Arthur asked before starting his joke, "So, three women are running from the cops, a red head, a brunette and a blond. They're in the outskirts of town before the cops start catching up, so the three women jump into burlap sacks to hide. The cops get out of their cars to check the bags, a cop kicks the first bag, which held the redhead."[/color]
[color=9e0b0f]"The women goes [i]meow[/i] and the cops conclude that there must be a cat in the bag. They kick the next bag, to which the brunette goes [i]woof[/i] and the cops decide it must be a dog inside. A cop kicks the last bag to which they all hear the word, [i]potatoe[/i]"[/color]

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