Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by Izurich
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Izurich 7/8 Weeb

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--Where I Stand--


Ah Faen... but at the very least she already expected the bullets to not work judging by how a rocket-propelled grenade simply phased through the ghost, well now she regretted wasting so much of her mana to try murdering that fake nun, but there was no use crying over spilled milk. That wink though... Lenore did it too, must be something that Justin told his henchmen to do, huh?

That maneuver failed, Valkyrie opted to join what most of the espers here were doing, smashing the furniture so these poltergeist caspers would have nothing to possess and attack with, although the nature of her weapon - and lack of mana - made the endeavor quite difficult, a warhammer like Leroux's would be so much better suited in this situation. Still, doing something was better than nothing - looking at you, John "Silhouette" Cena - so Silmeria simply used her rifle as an improvised blunt instrument, smashing and smacking with its barrel and butt. The combined efforts of GEMINI, Mavericks, and Freelancers made short work of Justin's luxury furnishings, rendering the 'wall esper' essentially harmless. Then, the return of the B&B intimidated the ethereal asshat enough to turn tail and run. Good riddance, no more of that bullshit...

...which also meant no more mutual enemy for the opposing espers to focus upon. Valkyrie sighed with closed eyes as she felt the tension returning once more, the very same tension as when Binky talked Billy before the whole altercation began. Speaking of the Double Bs, only Billy returned and he looked worse for the wear, what happened to Binky? Did they get Justin? Oh, right, there she was, all bruised and battered. Well, both of them were still alive so... either mission accomplished or Justin somehow escaped really.

Whatever presumption the two groups decided to lean upon, it would be rendered obsolete as Doctor Veronica herself arrived, confirming that the oh-so-powerful vampire also pulled a Gunther, whimpering away with his tail between the legs. "Tch..." Goddammit, so despite what his extravagance would suggest, Dis-Count Dracula was more pragmatic than arrogant, huh? This certainly complicated things. Again, this just meant more missions to this grand operation of vampire hunting; Justin, Sofron, Lenore, Gunther, and whoever the fuck Betty was, Valkyrie's hunting list as far as this coven was concerned. Between them, Tony the Tiger, Viper, and the Mavericks, the sniper certainly had her work cut out for her.

Nonetheless, right here, right now, the immediate concern was these subhuman terrorists and their hired goons. She had half the mind to quip that Fritzi was wasting her time and energy trying to lecture the Freelancers, but decided against it for two important reasons: One was not wanting to jeopardize her employment more than she already did after the Tiger Tony backup fiasco, two was that there was a kid among the Freelancers here; if at least he could be convinced to stand down and peacefully leave, it'd be worth it. As for the Mavericks, well, what surprise was there? Both Billy and Justin were monsters leading other monsters and monster cock-sucking humans, only a simpleton would believe that Billy's main motive was altruistic; he wanted to have this whole place to himself, the big bastard.

After her little lecture, the purple-haired scientist-director proceeded to give the henchmen an ultimatum, one that was already generous considering the circumstances. So far, this resulted in the emo child and the faceless douchebag retreating, good for them, there was no reason for any more children to get hurt, even if this one was an esper.

For her part, Valkyrie gave a brief subtle begging look toward Protector, hoping the nursery teacher inside could see reason and just... return to her children, a night and day difference when she turned at Klava, though her expression remained outwardly neutral, her right index finger twitched once, hoping, craving for the Ice Bitch to stand with Billy, give her a legal reason to return the favor of that little dagger-to-neck stunt she pulled earlier. Frost Fucker didn't decide to finish the job, just as Lenore didn't, and that was a mistake she was going to pay dearly.

But for the moment, until each of the Freelancers made their decision, the sniper esper could only do one thing.

"..."

Overwatches


21 | Female | G.E.M.I.N.I. | The Faceless
Teslic Gauss | Long Gun | Physical | Nibelung Valesti
Northern Sentinel | Government Agent
Electromagnetism | Lightning | Static Shock
[Paralysis (4), Speedster (4)], Damage (2), Damage X (6), Push (2), Pull (2), Piercing (2), Bend (0)

DAMAGE: B | SPEED: E | SENTINEL: C | Max Mana: 500

PHYSICAL: D | ARCANE: E | CHAOS: D | Current Mana: 16
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by mantou
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mantou The Fried Kind

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ARIA: THE PROTECTOR | The Mavericks
Reporting to: Billy Black
@ERode@OwO@Majoras End@BrokenPromise@Majoras End@Izurich

Fritz's entrance was enough to give the Protector pause, and after listening to her speech, it was able to decide on one thing-- enough was enough.

It stood at attention, seemingly in respect to its former boss, while responding with a firm nod towards Billy's suggestion. Surely, there was bound to be some issue with alternating between the two factions' missions like this-- however, pooling bad blood over clashes like this was not part of its agenda, and it surely wasn't about to cross any lines to get on either party's nerves. More than that-- it had the heart to grow attached to some of the members of the proclaimed opposing squad... and after all the things it's done that day, it figured that losing friends, or even acquaintances, wouldn't be part of its grievances.

The Protector was faced forward the entire time and noticed in time to catch Valkyrie's glance. At this point, it would have taken off its helmet to express its deepest apologies-- if only its esper form actually kept its head. What was left inside was merely a soul etched into the inner workings of the suit of armor, and a stern-faced helmet to top it all off. So instead, it displayed its sincerities in another way it best knew how--

The suit of armor sheathed its spear to its back, then bent its body to execute a deep 90-degree bow. It stayed like this for three seconds, before looking back up at the GEMINI agents, its gaze lingering on Agent Valkyrie and then Agent Su as if to say "I'm sorry". Not wanting to drag things on any longer, it nodded at Klava once to signal its exit, and took its leave.

It would pass the Timekeeper and Apollo on the way in time to hear the latter's question. Normally, this would have made the nursery teacher inside the suit of armor furrow its brows very deeply. But on this particular day, it couldn't help but sigh in its heart and say,

"Beer... sounds good." The deeply solemn, tin-canny voice sounded from within the armor. However, as soon as these few words left its metallic slits, its brows suddenly did furrow as the concern of underage drinking reminded the esper of something else more important.

The children-- it needed to get the children in the garage!

It patted the Timekeeper on his head, keeping the weight of its gauntlet light so that the gesture was more gentle than painful, before speeding up in its pace towards the exit of the mansion, and then circling around in a sprint to search for the kids.


Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by Ponn
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Ponn

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It wasn’t long after Ashley healed Breacher and the pair had moved to a more defensible part of the room that a large figure emerged from the far hallway. It was Billy, and although he looked badly injured, he was apparently still a formidable enough threat that their ghostly foe decided to make a quick exit. While she was thankful that they wouldn’t have to endure the specter’s continued assault, Ashley’s heart sank at the absence of Binky. Had she been killed by Justin? Was she still fighting the vampire even now? Had Billy turned against her? All these possibilities rushed through the young agent’s head, but before she could give much thought to any of them, the green-haired esper in question stumbled out of the darkened passage. “Binky!” (this is spoken out loud) Ashley gasped when she saw the blood streaming down her comrade’s face. However, while the veteran agent was clearly injured, she seemed all right for the moment, much to Ashley’s relief.

And then a surprisingly chipper Dr. Moller made her appearance…

The director of G.E.M.I.N.I. operations in Pax Septimus proceeded to go on a bit of a rant, mostly at the freelancers’ expense, concluding with an ultimatum for the mercenaries: Leave, or be considered accomplices to a known terrorist. Still, that wasn’t the part that had gotten Ashley’s attention and held it in a vice-like grip even as some of the freelancers made their way to the exit.

Justin had escaped. (italics employed to convey emphasis)

They had failed…

No… N-No… A-After everything we went through… I-It couldn’t have all been for nothing… (italics employed to denote internal thoughts)

No… It wasn’t for nothing… Dr. Moller had said it herself. There was another threat to be eliminated here: Billy Black, infamous leader of Maverick Alternative. A terrorist, a monster who tricked and brainwashed otherwise good people with empty promises, just to further his own twisted agenda. He was no different from Justin! Merely another otherworldly abomination who sought to enslave innocents in his vile pursuit of power. The director was right, even if Justin had temporarily eluded their grasp, they could still rid the world of at least one monster today…

To that end, Ashley tightened her grip on her instrument and infused the techno-wand with the glowing energies of a melody, slowly but inexorably increasing its destructive potential to the greatest possible extent her current abilities allowed. From her place crouched down beside Breacher, and obscured by her ally’s greatshield, along with her own, the Knight of Tomorrow prepared to ensure that Billy Black wouldn’t see another…



18 | Female | GEMINI | Vision of Tomorrow
Implements of Tomorrow | Wand, Shield | Arcane | Tune of Tomorrow
Raiment of Tomorrow | Stride of Tomorrow
Light of Tomorrow | Light | Power of Tomorrow
[Reveal (2), Purity (4)], Damage (2), Damage X (6), Shield (4), Reflect (4), Heal (6), Major Heal (18), AoE (2), Powerful (0), Piercing (2)

DAMAGE: C | SPEED: E | SENTINEL: D | 750

[Silver Beam][Piercing][Powerful][Charge][Damage X] = -216 mana

PHYSICAL: E | ARCANE: D | CHAOS: C | 22
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by FamishedPants
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FamishedPants CEO of Vanderlay Technologies

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S a m u e l



"I am once again asking for your arcane support."

— Sam



Although he was without usable hands for the moment, Samuel wasn't completely helpless. That was why he was willing to forgo the healing Ashley could provide, even if he'd really love to be able to use his instruments.

But no matter.

Ultimately, despite appearances, Samuel was more capable at a range than close-range, and against Espers, he couldn't rely on his terrifying presence to do all the heavy lifting, like he could with those thugs in the prison. Let alone a ghost or a vampire or whatever other abomination wanted to announce its presence next.

The trick was to be patient while he remained invisible. Even if some of those Freelancers knew where he was, his goal wasn't to remove himself from the fight in their eyes but to make it significantly more difficult to react to what he was about to do. But it was as he was gathering mana to cast a melody that the ghost had chosen to third party them. Hella cringe ngl

For the majority of the ghost-fight, Samuel's attention was occupied by a living suit of armor that had animated nearby. In all honesty, he wasn't entirely sure if it could see him while he was hidden within his shadow, but he didn't want to assume he was safe and then be cut down because of that, so instead, he went on the offensive. The sword tucked into his armpit... wouldn't visually change because it was invisible presently, but mana nonetheless did pour into and through it. A sudden blast of darkness swept upwards in a roughly diagonal line from the bottom to the top of the suit, lacking the typical precision Sam was known for. But it wasn't exactly easy to aim with your armpits.

With that suit of armor taken care of, Samuel intended on preparing another melody to assist his teammates, but an explosion, the ghost's departure, and the sudden appearance of Billy Black, Binky, and his waifu The Fritz Dr. Moller all happened rather quickly in succession.

Binky's condition drew his attention more than anything and considering her worried voice, the same could be said of the new recruit. He imagined that the battle must have been ferocious, but her expression said anything but 'I was victorious' and Samuel had reached the conclusion that Justin escaped long before it was ever said aloud.

A failure here, when we were so close! How could this happen? Probably because we stumbled on the forgettable before even approaching the actual target! No, 'stumbled' is being too generous. We tripped and fell and only barely managed to stand back up! If I was better... if things had concluded quicker, then he wouldn't've had time to flee!

His crimson eyes took to Billy, who was likewise showing signs of wear from the battle. Samuel removed himself from the shadow he had created and once again approached Ashley, although his eyes never quite left Billy. His everlasting smile heavily contrasted the bit of bloodlust he was feeling at that moment.

Then at the very least...!

Things had gone so very wrong ever since they stepped foot in this mansion. Something was compelling him to attack this monster before them. Was it the sheer humiliation of being spared by the corrupted nun? Was it the sorrowful determination to properly avenge the life of the kid and those innocents they could not save? Or was it simply a cold, business-like opportunist in him that saw the chance to strike a crippling blow to Maverick?

It was hard to tell, but either way, Samuel was behind Fritzi's proposition before she even uttered it. Of course, as a respectable member of G.E.M.I.N.I, Samuel would loyally follow just about any order Fritzi gave regardless. But now it wasn't just loyalty driving him.

"...Apologies for earlier. Didn't want to be a burden in that melee. If the offer still stands, my hands are still worse for wear." He said to Ashley, watching the Freelancers begin to abandon Billy...

...and reinforce his stance on Freelancers. Yet, even so, he was a bit relieved to see a few of them leave.

...because they would only complicate things.

At least, that's what he told himself.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by ERode
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@BrokenPromise@Majoras End@OwO@mantou

Tap.

She tore off the clothing that had wrapped around her, tossing them to the ground with a huff. Gunther, that ghostly bastard, had made his retreat pretty quickly after the arrival of the big cheese himself, followed by some moldy cheese and then the non-catering cheese. As Fritz made her crescent detour around the ruined hallway, Klava walked back to join her own team once more. Then, midway through, she snorted, barely suppressing a laugh at the grown-ass woman’s actions.

Tap.

Ultimatums were proposed soon enough though, complete with revelations of ulterior motivations. Motivations and ultimatums proposed over roundabout appeals to justice and bullshit. What else was there to be said in the end? Klava’s foot raised up. The Justine bullshit was not over.

Tap.

One by one, the freelancers began to leave. Their departure was understandable, but only from a personal standpoint. The Timekeeper was a child, both as an esper and as a human. And though there were children in the business who possessed the gumption to do this bloody work, he proved himself to not be one of them. It would be good if he quit now, and forgot all this. Apollo, of course, was Apollo. There was maybe one braincell in his head, and that had already been overheated from all the shouting from earlier. Muscleheads were muscleheads, through and through, and though he left while bitching about it, he was still, to the end, whipped.

Tap.

Protector left, naturally. There was no need to comment on that.

Tap.

One of them was weaving a spell. Another was aiming their gun. Their expressions weren’t really hiding anything. Grudges, huh? Vengeance by proxy? Probably had their own brains working on overdrive doing tons of imagining and thinking. Wasteful thoughts. She felt herself cooling down, growing more and more certain. It was easy to turn, to face the Mavericks. Bloodied Billy and his crew of increasingly-anxious angels. Didn’t look like they stood much of a chance, huh? Klava smiled. She memorized the lay of the land.

“For the record, Kristina, that was a date for you, but a job for me.”

Tap.

“And I'm still working.”

The frosty esper dropped to the ground in the same moment Apollo’s spell blinked out. A gun cracked out but the bullet struck nothing, and a beam chased through the darkness but only traced its own path. Darkness persisted, filled to the brim with murderous intent. Her palms struck the tiles and her feet bounced into a sprinter’s position for the briefest of moments before she kicked off into a dash, steering clear of shattering obstacles as her left hand thrummed with an arctic chill.

Last spell for the day. What will it be?

What could it be, but an oddly phallic tower, Constructed in the moment she crossed the threshold of the exit in order to rise up and slam into the ceiling, a ladder set up within to reach the second floor?

Of course, Klava had neither the interest nor the strength to ascend to the top of the tower and sneak into the second floor. She was just booking it with the Mavericks, after all, because…

Timekeeper was a child. Apollo was a bitch. Protector was new.

…she was a professional, and the job wasn’t done.

One could be said, anyhow, that efforts to cut off one of a hydra’s head only lead to the spawning of more.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by SilverPaw
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SilverPaw

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Jacqueline Leroux

Unfortunately, the small ghosts – or rather, souls, according to Gunther – couldn’t be killed by Havoc. Still, Jacqueline smashed their hiding spaces, which left them with less objects to weaponize. It was better than nothing, she figured, and thrashing the was kinda fun. Not as satisfactory as bringing down Gunther or his underlings, but, well. It worked some of the stress and frustration out of her system. By the ache in her stomach area, however, Jacqueline was aware her wound was getting aggravated in exchange. This better end soon.

Just as she thought, Billy returned. She turned to look at him. He was by his lonesome. Her muscles tensed, and a glare formed on her face, lips twisting into a snarl. As soon as she started mentally cursing the bastard, and was about to spring into action, though, Binky showed up as well. Jacqueline exhaled in relief, though she still thrumming from that unused bout of adrenaline.

Surprisingly, their boss showed up as well for some reason. Fritzi was trying to pin all the blame on Mavericks and/or Freelancers, but Jacqueline was dubious that the government’s action was faultless. In the end, how could anyone know if Justin escaped because the mess on Shimr, the public announcement, or maybe, just maybe, because he saw he had enemy on two or three sides coming for him? The doctor went ahead to bicker with Billy over territory rights, which made the respective leaders seem nothing less than full-fledged gangsters.

Jacqueline was annoyed with the situation, and the condescension from her boss – though directed at their enemies – was just as irritating. Finally, the doctor finished with her monologue by issuing an ultimatum. The fuck’s with the ice-cream mention? Is she for real? One way or another, her speech had its intended effect. Some of the freelancers did depart without further ado, a result Jacqueline couldn’t really complain about.

The thought that they weren’t – or more likely, couldn’t – prioritize tracking Justin right then was unpleasant. But if Fritzi thought she could handle Billy, they might as well give it a try.

For a while, it looked like Jacqueline wouldn’t get to do much but stand and watch. Most of the freelancers were dispersing, so it’s not like there was anyone to attack besides Billy, whom the doctor claimed as her target. The situation changed when the illumination on the statue dissipated, and someone constructed some sort of tower in the distance. That most likely wasn’t Breacher’s work, as their side had no reason for such an object. It looked like it was there for cover or as an obstacle, since it was between Fritzi and Billy.

Jacqueline moved a bit closer, in front of Wukong. As she peered around, she saw a shape moving. Hm? It wasn’t an ally…No, it was that one Freelancer who’d nearly killed Valkyrie. “Enemy nearby, watch out. Moving to intercept,” she whispered to the trio. Then, she proceeded to do so, ducking beneath Valkyrie’s gun as she passed her by. The lighting was poor, there was clutter all around, and both she and the three she was leaving behind were injured. It kinda sucked, but a job was a job, and their boss had just changed the mission parameters.

It didn’t take long to get closer to Klava, even if she couldn’t straight out charge at her in the darkness. When she was close enough for her opponent to be within reach of her war pick, though, she swung at the other’s knee. One, it’d be good to limit her movements, and two, it’d be repayment for when the girl tried busting her leg.


Havoc | Great Axe | Arcane | Pry
Eternal Knight | Perfectly polished
Forged Arsenal | Earth/Metal | Fissure
[Quake (2), Mass (2)] Damage X (6), AoE (2), Enhance (2), Powerful (0), Dispel (6), Shield (4)

DAMAGE: B | SPEED: D | SENTINEL: D | 500

PHYSICAL: E | ARCANE: C | CHAOS: D | 28
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by Crusader Lord
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Crusader Lord A professional, anxiety-riddled, part-time worker

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Wukong


-Statue Room-

"...The More Things Change, The More They Stay The Same"


Even with the spectral crowd fleeing out of the blue, it was no less surprise to see Binky and Billy Black both come out torn to shreds. Justin, it seemed, had proven too strong or at least to have too many good underlings to get caught. Only then did the 'good doctor' show up in person to lambast the room with news of Justin's escape. Escape. Had anyone planned for that potentiality, or at least given it some thought? Hell, if Fritzi's explanation was all the information then it seemed the other party had royally screwed up in all of this. Spreading news without regarding the impact it could have, bringing attention to things, drumming it up, ultimately giving time for the big bad to prepare outside of the announcement that had been made to try to settle people down.

They'd ultimately chased him out of one hidey-hole and into whichever one he set up in next, and that was all. Lives wasted and damage done, but nothing more than that. Essentially a zero-sum game where Justin did not gain and yet he did not lose what seemed to be most important to him. It was infuriating at the mere prospect, and a mere look over the faces of her allies spoke volumes to the agent. Yet at the same time, she...couldn't hate the Freelancers entirely. As much as she did not want to admit it, what would she have done if she'd found such information and not been a part of G.E.M.I.N.I? What if she was wanting to save people who had been kidnapped, girls who had no chance, but didn't have the resources alone to get things moving? She truly didn't know. Would she have gone to G.E.M.I.N.I and tried to go through proper channels, or would she have seen the organization akin to how someone like Viper seemed to? Again, she had no idea on the spot.

She was mostly glad when the two familiar 'voices of reason' from earlier chose to leave, silent but trying to hold back the genuine relief that washed down her spine. Two more lives maybe not wasted on this whole affair. Yet even the kid's demeanor as he walked past her to the exit was nearly heartbreaking. She wanted to reach out, do something-...but no. By the time Apollo walked past, the simian esper held her tongue. To strike out with some attempt, after her vey boss had arrived and given this ultimatum, it would look as shallow as a parking lot puddle. Perhaps even mocking, now that she thought about it. Derisive.

If Billy had one point, it was that not all of them on both sides were wanting to fight to the death. At the same time, however, he was just as Ms. Moller has pointed out: A monster. One who would do anything to get his aims, just like any other group bent on power or influence in Pax Septimus. Yet some would perhaps point to G.E.M.I.N.I as a similar, would they not? Simultaneously, though, the path to peace and safety was not an easy or simple one. Simply surviving was a path paved and steeped in blood, this she felt she at least was a simple sort of truth perhaps. One she'd lived personally so far.

But this was no time to philosophize. She sent her little distraction of a summon to at least make sure the two Freelancers and any others who were peacefully leaving would make it out safely. Not stalking them, not tracking them, just following behind from a respectful distance. Then it could return to her in here. Nothing more.

Then the room exploded with action again, including a giant ice-...ah. One of those. Very rood, but of course it was as big as the icy woman's own ego.

As Jacqueline, who had moved in front of her and Valkyrie, rushed ahead, the monkey-like esper rushed ahead as well. She moved to try to to cut off Klava from the side, striking out with her staff with a melody cast to try to stop her. She did not place Jacqueline in the striking zone of the attack she made, but aimed for the nearest part of Klava's body that she could strike without getting deflected into her ally. Maybe the restraining spell would work? Maybe.



@Izurich@BrokenPromise@Ponn@FamishedPants@SilverPaw@ERode
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by BrokenPromise
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BrokenPromise With Rightious Hands

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@Ponn@Crusader Lord@FamishedPants@Izurich@SilverPaw@OwO@mantou@ERode@Majoras End

Fritzi issued her ultimatum, Maverick stood their ground, but most of the freelancers didn’t.

One by one, Billy’s forces dissolved. Finn had an emotional breakdown, Apollo lost interest, and Protector departed out of a sense of camaraderie to enemy forces.

”Ya gotta be five finger fuckin’ me!” Billy stomped.

”Fickle creatures, aren’t they.” Fritzi’s form blew apart into a hail of rose petals. Beneath it all was a doll-like figure. She wore a large skirt hung like a wilting rose, a corset top as dark as a dried stem, and a crown of thorns atop her platinum blond hair. Fritzi had become Vermillion Veronica. It wasn’t often Fritzi dawned her Esper form. This was likely the first time most of her own agents saw her dressed for combat. ”Oh! And Valkyrie.” She looked over her shoulder at the sniper. There was a faint red glow in her eyes. It had been present ever since she transformed, but it was at this point Silmeria really noticed it. ”Hold your fire.” She gave the girl a wink before looking back at the opposition.

Shortly afterwards, the lights went out. The sound of a giant ice “tower” rising into the sky could be heard, along with a half-wall of debris protecting the GEMINI agents. But without Apollo’s light, little of anything could be seen. That was until Ashley’s projectile lit the way, which was the only thing that let Jacqueline or Lilliah see at all. Though even with sight, scoring a hit on Klava was not going to be possible. Before darkness fell, Klava had moved to join the Mavericks at the other side of the room. This put quite a bit of distance between herself and the agents already. Now there was a giant ice sculpture in the way. Even with Lilliah’s assistance, it was going to be difficult to catch up. But they gave chase.

”Okay, so I’m confused now.” Kristina ran along with the Mavericks in the dark. Though soon enough, they were running through sunlit halls. ”You said our thing was a job, sure, but you said that you are on duty. Does that mean we are going to have ice cream? Does that mean-”

”Cork it, Trixy!” Billy took a single swing at the ceiling, which caused the hallway to fill up with broken timber. If Jacqueline continued to chase, they’d need to do some digging to catch up.

”Hey!” Luna called to Billy. ”Where did Jez go?”

”Keep runnin’!” Billy scooped up Luna before following Klava and Kristina into the wine cellar.

It seemed the knight would not be getting retribution today.

Or would she?

Behind her, one of Veronica’s arms leaned out of a shadow with a hurricane lantern. The light was soft, but it did give some visibility in the otherwise dark hallway. ”Leroux, I like your style.” More of the doll-like girl’s body became visible when she leaned out of the shadow. ”Some may call it reckless, but I long for the days when I use to do things like that. At some point I went from being a good agent to an essential one, so they keep me on a pretty tight leash now.” When Veronica stepped totally out of the shadow, she had her arm wrapped around one of the maverick espers. She seemed to be unconscious, or dead. Her arms hung at her sides as Veronica dragged her back into the other room. ”Jezebel here isn’t Billy, but she’s an officer in their organization. A ‘Flightless Angel’ or something? I’ll take her as a consolation prize.” She lowered the lamp onto the floor and pulled the gauntlets off of Jezebel’s arms. ”But a sever and a restrain note? That might have been overkill if it connected, Wukong.” Once they were off, the unconscious jester woke up, but now she was just a woman with raven black hair. Not a threat to anyone, least of all an esper. ”Does someone want to take this off my hands?”

Non-esper agents and soldiers started to flood into the room. Two of them approached Jezebel and pulled her arms behind her back. Once they escorted her outside, she shot a glare that could freeze blood at the suit of armor she had saved earlier. But Protector was preoccupied with other tasks.

”Well agents, we tried.” Veronica folded her arms behind her back. ”It’s one hell of a silver lining, but at least most freelancers are against terrorisim. Though the jury is still out on Apollo.” With a blink, the red glow in her eyes vanished. ”Remember to write up reports when you get back home. You look beat, but that will change when you leave the esper state.”

Su turned to Binky. “What happen in there?"

But when Binky tried to answer, it was just a groan.

”Ah!” Veronica folded her arms with a pout. ”That’s not your esper form, you know? You’re lucky that’s all he did to you. But Billie’s even luckier that I didn’t get a hold of him.” With a shrug, she shook her head. ”You shouldn’t even be standing right now. Get that checked out with the medics, that’s an order.” Once Binky walked off, Veronica looked at the remaining agents. ”You are free to leave the mission area. I’m just going to stick around to make sure nothing else happens to our less gifted agents.”




Once the Mavericks and Klava arrived outside the wine cellar, Billy set down Luna.

”W-What the hell happened back there?” Kristina’s voice cracked. ”They just left us! Almost all of them! And then Jez-”

Billy threw his fist into a reinforced wall, causing spider-line cracks to shoot out in all directions. ”Thought the ‘Huntress’ was a one time deal. Didn’t realize the average freelancer’s spine is like spaghetti!”

”There were so many wounded on the other side. We could have forced them to back down if we stood together.”

The two teenagers from earlier looked in their direction. ”Where’s the armored guy? Is he coming back?”

Billy groaned. ”He’s eatin’ ice cream, if I had to guess.” He approached them. ”Suppose you weren’t important enough to come back for.” Billy scooped the pyromancers upin one arm and hugged them against his chest. ”Justin fled too, ya might as well come with me.”

”Ngh!” A few teenagers didn’t have the power to break out of Billy’s grasp, but they hardly tried. ”Why do we keep getting abandoned?”

”I won’t abandon ya.”

”That’s what they all say…”

Luna pursed her lips.. She glanced back at the few people who followed them out. *Looks like you picked a winner, Trixy. She stayed, even if she’s only during working hours.* She bit her lip before casting her gaze to the wall. *I’m gunna head back.* She turned around and walked deeper into the Bastion.

‘Kristina’ turned back to Klava with a nervous chuckle. ”This really sucks. But uh, I think she’ll be okay.” She rubbed the back of her head. ”Kristina is just the name I use on Shimr. Trixy is what I’m best known as in Maverick. Since we were on a real operation together, you can call me that if you want. It’s up to you though.” After glancing around again, Trixy looked to the floor. ”I uh, guess the operation is over. I don’t think anyone else is in the mood for ice cream.”






@The World

Marrie’s fingers were blazing along, sending messages from both her own phone and Pac’s. It was a time consuming process, but without giant snakes or goblins to bother her, it was a trivial task to complete..

Since GEMINI did not put up a bounty for Justin (they wanted to bust him themselves) there was no GEMINI agent to consult regarding the Justin bounty. But Fritzi, Billy, Tetrad, the coin requester, and many others were easy to find. Though there probably wasn’t much point in bothering espers outside of Pax Septimus. Then again, Marrie did want to exploit Pac-A-Fist’s image to bring down Justin. Freelancers were scattered all over the world, and few had the same renown as the Bates twins. But there were others that might be worth contacting.. Though she did message the Bates once they had shown up.

They pulled out their phones and looked at their messages. Marrie could watch their emotions change as they read along.

”There’s no coin!?” Regina bared her teeth like a feral dog.

”First violin girl, now Trisha...” Elroy half grumbled the words to himself.

”I find Justin most disgusting!” Regina folded her phone shut. ”I’ll break his ass if it’s the last thing I do!” She prepared to bolt after the vampire when Elroy raised his hand.

”Regina!” He turned to look at his sister. ”Is this the first time Trisha disappeared?”

”Eh?” She looked over her shoulder. ”I don’t think she makes a habit of getting kidnapped, why?”

”I’ve been having visions.” Elroy folded his arms. ”I was on a beach looking for Trisha. She had been gone for a while. Then I found her and we left.”

”Sounds vague.”

”Memories often are.”

”So are dreams.”

”Trisha remembered it too.”

”I’m not sure what that has to do with this. Lots of couples have dreams about each other.” Regina looked ahead. ”He’s getting away from us. We need to chase him now.” She didn’t wait. The ruinous meteor blazed a trail through the shadows.

Elroy grumbled to himself before patting Marrie on the head. ”We didn’t know what the coin was, Fog girl. I would have saved it too.” He followed after his sister.

Things would not look up for Stacy either. While her head had been returned, attempts to heal it seemed to be ineffectual. This was strange, because regardless if Stacy was an esper or monster, a healing spell should have done something. Stacy was still alive at least. It was a shame Stacy didn’t have a way of communicating.

Then out of the blue, Marrie received a text on her Shimr app.

I wish you had busted that coin, but I guess there's no point in crying over spilled milk. At least you got paid, right? Not like I knew what Sofron was doing with it. If you wanna do me a big favor, see if you can get a hold of "The Knight of Tomorrow," If you can, I'll make it worth your while.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by Ponn
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Ponn

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As Ashley continued to charge up her impending attack, she heard the distorted voice of Silhouette offer an apology for disappearing earlier. And ask if she was still able to heal his hands…

“I’m sorry, Silhouette,” she told him with a voice filled with cold determination. “But your hands will have to wait.”

What wouldn’t have to wait was the grand debut of Dr. Moller’s esper form. “Vermillion Veronica” was an apt codename, Ashley reflected, as she beheld her crimson garbed superior’s elaborate, yet rather impractical outfit. However, a moment later, her vision was consumed by darkness as the last of the glowing rocks faded away. Still, Ashley had fixed Billy’s location in her mind, and the giant monster would be hard to miss at this distance. Thus, not wasting a moment more, the Knight of Tomorrow aimed her fully charged techno-wand and unleashed a blinding beam of incandescent annihilation. With a mighty screech, the brilliant lance of destructive energy shot forth, a scintillating cyclone of raw arcane power, primed to disintegrate whatever unfortunate thing lay in its path.

Unfortunately for Ashley, that thing wasn’t Billy Black…

Instead, the ruinous emerald cylinder met with an obstruction, one which strongly resembled a particularly… swollen aspect of the male anatomy… With a sound akin to the shattering of several dozen window panes, the bulbous ovoid exploded into a shower of warm droplets, the small portion of the ice sculpture that hadn’t completely evaporated having been turned into a spray of heated liquid.

If the sensation of these droplets landing upon her was unpleasant to Ashley, the Knight of Tomorrow gave no sign. Instead, she merely clenched her teeth and glared at the fleeing terrorists with utter fury. Once again she had failed, once again, a monster was allowed to escape… Dr. Moller had apparently managed to capture one of the Mavericks, but that was a small consolation after all they had endured.

Turning to Silhouette, the high-tech heroine gave voice to a weary sigh. “It looks like I’m almost out of mana,” she told him in a tone suffused with despair and exhaustion. “You should probably ask one of the medics to help you with your hands.”

This had been a complete disaster. What had they even accomplished? And why did Dr. Moller seem so unconcerned about everything? Gathering her resolve, Ashley strode over to her crimson-clad superior to ask just that…



18 | Female | GEMINI | Vision of Tomorrow
Implements of Tomorrow | Wand, Shield | Arcane | Tune of Tomorrow
Raiment of Tomorrow | Stride of Tomorrow
Light of Tomorrow | Light | Power of Tomorrow
[Reveal (2), Purity (4)], Damage (2), Damage X (6), Shield (4), Reflect (4), Heal (6), Major Heal (18), AoE (2), Powerful (0), Piercing (2)

DAMAGE: C | SPEED: E | SENTINEL: D | 750

PHYSICAL: E | ARCANE: D | CHAOS: C | 22
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by Majoraa
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"Hm."
Current Location: Leaving...

He hadn't even realized others had left as well, until Apollo appeared, stopping to ask him if he...wanted a beer? Fable's brows rose, but he didn't react any further. He didn't expect anyone else to leave. Well, he understood, just didn't expect. But that was either a serious question or an invite to go anywhere but here. Which Protector agreed to once they passed by. Wait, if Apollo and Protector were leaving too then...

The boy felt a tinge of worry for Klava, once he realized only she remained back with Maverick. And he really hoped no one would hold his choice against him. He was snapped out of his thoughts when he felt the suit of armor gently pat his head, then hurry out in a faster pace. Wonder what that's about. The Timekeeper looked back at the faceless healer. "I...can't drink. Too young." He tiredly explained as they walked. "Thanks for the offer though." As much as a part of him wanted to say "screw it" and accept. He didn't know how his family would react. Not good, he assumed.

Once they were outside, Finn also realized it slipped his mind that it was still morning. The good doctor might've used catering as an incentive to surender, but he couldn't care less about that. He slightly waved to Apollo as he left.

...So now what?

He didn't have to go back home yet. Atleast he didn't think he did.

There wasn't any open jobs at the moment.

Perhaps he could keep searching for...??

Don't be ridiculous. That was probably the only chance he had. Wasn't it? Seemed like it. GEMINI was more preoccupied with Billy than relocating Justin. The boy furrowed his brows and lightly slapped himself awake. What was he thinking. This was just his first failure, he should just learn from it instead of letting it get to his head! They just escaped, so that meant Betty was still alive.

He couldn't give up. He just couldn't!

So, the boy walked away from the hellish mansion, going back to his human self once there was no one around. Timekeeper may not have helped, but perhaps Fable could do something better.
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by Izurich
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--Mission Report: Inconclusive--


Phew... Much to her genuine relief, Protector could indeed see reason and decided that the children were worth her life more than Billy's lofty ambitions, what with the Freelancers' original goal of slaying Justin and rescuing this Betty no longer an option. As things stood, it was just the White WBitch left and though it had just been an inkling before, the brunette's confidence that Maiden was both freelancer and Maverick terrorist was growing stronger by the second. This... bloodthirsty need for vengeance, she couldn't deny it, a primal part of her urged her to tie up loose ends, one by one; Viper, Lenore, Maiden... all must die.

Thus, it came as a bit confusing when Dr. Fritzi - who had transformed into Vermilion Veronica - gave a direct order to the sniper to... hold her fire out of all things. Valkyrie blinked once, and considering her habit of not doing that at all whenever she's in esper form, the seemingly minor gesture spoke a thousand words. Every inch of her except her vocal cords were screaming in barely-restrained protest, the faux stoic look of an internally screaming woman. However, in the end, the incentives of her employment won out against her desire to murder Klava. And besides, just to make herself feel better about it, she entertained the thought that Lady Vermillion had something sneaky up her frilly sleeves. That wink again... what is it with these people and winks? Silmeria mused as impassive orange stared against dimly-glowing red.

Thus, when Faceless Douchebag's arcane light went out, Valkyrie stood still even as Leroux warned her that an enemy was nearby, index finger engaging trigger discipline. She trusted her two melee-focused comrades to intercept the escaping terrorists - White Bitch included - and just watched the show as Orion's beam magnum shattered said Frost Fuck's sorry excuse of modern art (Still better than Justin's boar bestiality sculpture though). She exhaled a slow heavy sigh, regretting the fact that she could've shot Maiden's literal ass during that generous window of light provided by the Knight of Tomorrow's Melody. Hey, those motherfuckers were running in a straight line with their backs turned to a railgun sniper after all, but orders were orders. After the tangoes were out of sight, Valkyrie just waited with the rest of the team while Veronica, Leroux, and Wukong gave chase.

A few moments later, the pursuers returned... but without Billy in their hands, although they did nab someone else, Jezebel by the looks of things, one of Maverick's officers. Well, she wasn't Billy, yes, but each neutralized or captured traitor of humanity was a win for all civilized folks. Flightless Angel, what an apt name, they certainly wouldn't be flying once their wings are clipped, hopefully she'd get the electric chair after GEMINI extracted all the information they could to hunt down the rest of her kind. That look, that delicious glaring look, yes, she loved an enemy who made it all the easier to dehumanize them.

"I'm sure this won't be the last time we'll see Justin's coven and the Mavericks," The sniper esper raised a little shrug, "I can vouch for Protector at least, I believe she truly only wanted to save the innocent, same with that steampunk kid. However, I believe it's obvious by now that the ice bitch is a Maverick... subhuman scum just like Viper and Lenore." Her calm voice was practically bubbling with vengeful fury just underneath the surface before it relaxed back to neutral stoicism without much fanfare, "Affirmative, Doctor."

Intent on following the order, Valkyrie disengaged esper form, her signature electromagnetic railgun and plain brown jacket vanishing into orange sparks. Then she simply departed from the mission area, preferably with the rest of the team, she could use some coffee and ice cream, yeah, coffee-flavored ice cream maybe? Yeah that'd be nice.

Although it looked like Silhouette would need to be spoonfed...


21 | Female | G.E.M.I.N.I. | The Faceless
Teslic Gauss | Long Gun | Physical | Nibelung Valesti
Northern Sentinel | Government Agent
Electromagnetism | Lightning | Static Shock
[Paralysis (4), Speedster (4)], Damage (2), Damage X (6), Push (2), Pull (2), Piercing (2), Bend (0)

DAMAGE: B | SPEED: E | SENTINEL: C | Max Mana: 500

PHYSICAL: D | ARCANE: E | CHAOS: D | Current Mana: 16
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by mantou
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ARIA: THE PROTECTOR | The Mavericks
Moving to: Billy Black, Klava, Kristina, and Luna (if she's still around)
@BrokenPromise

"..."

The Protector was at a loss.

Damn it all-- in English even! Why did it have to come out from this side of the mansion? The exasperated suit of armor scratched the back of its helmet, a little bit frustrated that it made the decision to make this exit without having a halfway-decent plan about how to return to those kids.

One thing was for sure-- the garage door entrance they found was accessed through the underground... so, the subway was out of the question, being a good ten or fifteen kilometers into the city. It rushed here by bus, and so it really needed to take a moment to jog its memory back while it sprinted all the way around the mansion.

Once reaching a very rough above-ground estimate of where the garage heading into the wine cellar was, the Protector looked around. There were no obvious entrances into the inner workings of the underground labyrinth, but... there was a manhole.

It rushed to it, questioning if its strength would be enough to open the thing before it realized it was still in its esper form. Quickly, it held its shield over the cover, its gravitational pull lifting the manhole lid with surprising ease. Obstruction cleared, it secured its shield to its back and made its way down the ladder, hoping for the best.

It was dark, it was damp, and it was hella cramped. There was no way it would detransform, though. Not with all the muck and moisture. The esper couldn't have been more thankful for its suit of armor; clearly, its privileged upbringing didn't ever oversee its willing entrance into any city's underbelly. Yet, there it was. The things it'd do for children, after all.

So it sucked it up and just tried its damn best to move fast without slipping.


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@BrokenPromise

There was probably a pessimistic part of Klava’s mind that figured that they’d all be dead regardless. Blasted to bits when the Fritz decides that she could just get a construction crew to clean up the debris after all, and call in an airstrike from the good ol’ US Air Force instead. Even if Billy could survive it, he wouldn’t have his angels left over to watch his ass from the Fritz’s magical bullshit. And then it’d be all extra over.

Even a couple of snipers positioned to start blasting through the windows would do it. One didn’t need an instrument to fuck an Esper up if their gun was of sufficient caliber. Klava had positioned herself close to Billy for that express purpose, imagining all the batshit things that self-righteousness government spooks could do to secure some semblance of victory after their squad had a hilarious fuck up. But the worst cases never manifested, and it was only when they dropped down into the wine cellar, moments away from being able to escape the Bastion, that Klava realized that one of them was missing.

The only one who she didn’t know, really. So personally, no big loss.

Billy took the kids. Tetrad took off. Klava remained there with Kristina for a moment longer, then let out a long, deflating groan. Fuck that wasn’t smart of her. Too caught up in the moment once again, too focused on being herself rather than being fucking alive. Oh, long term consequences, what were those? God, imagine if she had just shanked that butler a week or two back, then GEMINI could just be like “lol mission accomplished, we’ll let y’all go this time” instead. Fucking bullshit, for real. Such incredible cringe. Just totally built different, wasn’t she? And a dick? Seriously? Had the whole medieval weaponry and architecture theme going, and she just went and bungled it for an adolescent joke? What was she, 15? Yeah, she was definitely going to sleep on it. No regrets, of course, because GEMINI are still a buncha rat bastards, but there were a dozen ways she could’ve approached this.

“Trixy, huh,” Klava said. It looked like it fit more. Maybe. She rubbed the palm of her left hand against her eyes, then made her way down to Bastion as well. “So, what was that thing about eating babies that those GEMs were saying?”
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by The World
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Marrie Knight


Elroy's pat on the head wasn't exactly reassuring, but it helped, a little. And yeah, he might have protected it too, but he would have been able to fight, right? Marrie might not be stupid, but she was weak. Too weak. That needed to change, and fast. That was what was on her mind when...

I wish you had busted that coin, but I guess there's no point in crying over spilled milk. At least you got paid, right? Not like I knew what Sofron was doing with it. If you wanna do me a big favor, see if you can get a hold of "The Knight of Tomorrow," If you can, I'll make it worth your while.

What. The. Hell. Who even typed like that anymore? WHO SENT THAT MANY EMOTICONS IN CURRENT YEAR!?
Whatever. Wasn't important. What was important is that she had what she could only consider a lead. The Bates left a moment ago, but Marrie and Stacie were still there. Attempts to heal what was presumably her head weren't working, so Marrie tried to give her a phone to type on. Sure, she didn't have a head to see with, but her body seemed somewhat intelligent. Maybe braille would work...? Regardless, after checking if Stacie's body was able to commune through a phone's text features, she'd offer to take her body with her and let it stay at her apartment until she could get her head back on straight. And it would give Marrie a chance to try to do some information hunting. "Justin Carnage" and "The Knight of Tomorrow", huh?



19 | Female | Freelancer | Misty Steps
Apex Predator | Dagger | Physical | Mirror Shine
Wind-Carved Glacier | Masking
Step of the Hurricane | Wind | Riding the Currents
[Storm (4), Flight (6)] Damage X (6), Slow Fall (4), Blink (4), Magic Sense (6), Heal (16), Portal (8), Rain (2), Bounce (0), If Foe (0)

DAMAGE: E | SPEED: D | SENTINEL: C | 330

PHYSICAL: E | ARCANE: D | CHAOS: C | 330

Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by SilverPaw
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Jacqueline Leroux

Giving chase ended up being futile. It was too dark, there was too much confusion, and the Mavericks were hauling ass. Jacqueline sighed, and put a hand on her stomach. A waste of strained muscles and injury, it seemed like.

Around the time disappointment was settling in, Veronica appeared out of nowhere with a lantern. She was still in her esper form, and had somehow got a hold on one of the Maverick officers. Jacqueline hmmed in mild appreciation, though being suddenly complimented caused her to raise her eyebrows in surprise. Not what you said last time, she thought, remembering when the boss has scolded her to some minor damage to a building, of all stupid things to be criticized for. Rather than a compliment…This is just her reminiscing about her past, she concluded.

Nonetheless, Jacqueline did momentarily take hold of Jezebel, holding Havoc to her neck. Soon, however, government agents and soldiers arrived. Jacqueline easily handed over the hostage, which was the exact moment Jezebel ceased to matter to her.

The doctor wryly concluded the success of their mission. ‘We tried is about all that can be said of it…Maybe we’re not getting chewed out ‘cause we know we fucked up? It was either that, or the fact that Gemini now had possession of this building, which was tactical enough of a win for the government. Based on what Veronica had said, that was most likely it.

After they were finally verbally dismissed, Jacqueline had no reason to hang around. She de-transformed in some relatively private area, then departed for her apartment. There, she’d take some time to rest…maybe even think about how to increase chances for victory next time.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by BrokenPromise
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“Excuse me, Doctor,” Ashley called as she walked over to her superior. “May I speak with you for a moment?”

Veronica was watching the rest of the non-esper as they moved about the room. Most of them were just armed men, but there were a few others who were taking pictures, collecting samples, and talking amongst themselves. ”They won’t find anything.” She groaned under her breath. Before long, Veronica turned her head to look at Ashley. She was smiling like a porcelain doll. ”Sure! Sure, let’s just move over here so that there’s a little bit less noise.” Veronica stepped back into the hallway with Ashley. There were a few agents moving to and from the center room, so it was hardly private, but it was far less noisy. ”Alright, You can speak away now.”

“Well, um, it’s about the operation,” Ashley began once they’d moved to a slightly more suitable location. “After we all put forth so much effort, Justin and Billy both managed to escape, along with most of their henchmen. Two horrendous monsters are still on the loose, and so many innocents lost their lives, yet you seem so… so unconcerned with any of it, like none of it matters. I don’t understand. What did we even manage to achieve here?”

”Is that what this looks like to you?” Fritzi was a tall woman, but Veronica’s small body wasn’t much taller than a middle schooler. She looked up at Ashley with a smile. ”Yes, two monsters escaped. We captured an officer and secured the area. We do not have the manpower to hold the place for long, and I doubt we will get much out of our prisoner. It was an expensive proposition for us as well as our enemies, but our enemies have more resources to waste.” Veronica locked her hands behind her back. ”Tell me, how strong do you think I am?” She rocked her shoulders like an excited child. ”Do you think I’m powerful enough to take on Billy, two flightless angels, and a group of freelancers? Binky was out of mana, and few of the others were fit to fight. How many operatives would have perished if they chose to attack?”

Ashley frowned slightly at Veronica’s response. “Um, w-well, I imagine someone with your experience would be fairly powerful,” she replied hesitantly. “Certainly more powerful than the rest of us, and, uh, you did say you were planning to eliminate Billy…” she continued. “But, um, I didn’t mean to imply that you chose the wrong course of action by taking a hostage instead, it’s just that, well… it seems as though you know something we don’t, like we accomplished some hidden objective that made all these sacrifices worth it. That it wasn’t all for nothing…”

”I’m getting toi that, darling, just hold your horses.” With a sigh, Veronica’s hands moved out from behind her back and onto her hips. ”Success should never be expected. Especially in situations like this when our enemies outnumber us and our friends can be bought at a pittance.” She thrust a finger down the hall. ”As much experience as I have, nothing can beat good old fashioned numbers. Certainly when there are that many. The chances of everyone getting out of there alive if they chose to attack was slim.” For a moment, Veronica’s eyes were downcast. ”I’m not an easy person to read, Orion. If I was, Billy might have picked up on the fact that I was concerned. He might have ordered everyone to charge instead of run. I am strong, but so is Billy. He would have massacred everyone if I showed even an ounce of weakness.” The corners of her lips curled upward. ”No ulterior motives here. I’m just pleased that we suffered no casualties. No agents at least. That’s not an outcome you always get to enjoy. Binky will be out of commission for a bit, but I’m sure she’ll be back on the front line in no time.” Veronica pat Ashley’s shoulder once leaning against the wall. ”Go write up that report. You did well for your first operation, the outcome was out of your hands.”

As Ashley listened to everything Veronica had to say, she couldn’t help but agree that what the doctor said made sense, although it was somewhat disheartening to know that this operation truly had been almost entirely meaningless. “I see…” she replied softly. “And thank you, ma’am,” she added in a stronger voice. “I’ll get right to work on that. Oh!” she gasped as she recalled something important. “When I was separated from the rest of the team, I found an underground chamber filled with…” she paused for a moment at the thought of the nightmarish scene. “People Justin had turned into thralls. I-It was absolutely horrible! I-Is… Is there anything we can do for them?”

”It’s not possible to tell at this time, but thank you for letting me know.” Veronica nodded. ”I’ll let the other operatives know right now.” She turned her back to Ashley and raised a hand to the side of her head. ”Hey, got word there’s some thralls by the door. Stand by until Delta…” Veronica continued to relay information as she walked back into the center room.

As Ashley watched Veronica depart, the young esper allowed herself to feel a small measure of relief. At least the poor thralls would be freed from their abhorrent prison, and hopefully even receive the treatment needed to restore their humanity. If so, then at least there would be one positive outcome to this depressing debacle. As she turned to depart, Ashley’s foot bumped into a piece of debris. Looking down, she saw that it was the still-intact head of Justin’s disgusting statue, its unmarred visage one of smug mockery. Feeling her righteous fury return with full force, she raised her foot, before savagely driving her boot’s heel through the center of Justin’s face, shattering it completely.

Next time, you monster, it’ll be for real…






@The World

Stacy jumped when the phone was put in her hand, but seemed to understand what it was soon enough. She moved her thumb, pressed a button, then another button, then several other buttons. It worked! Stacy was typing something into the phone! Everyone knew how to text these days, and someone like Stacy had to log a lot of hours typing to friends. She then handed the phone back to Marrie. It was just a seven digit number. It seemed like she was trying to call someone. Should Marrie hit send?

Of course she is! This GM isn't going to make anyone wait an extra week for that! The phone rang several times before going to a recorded message.

”Hello hello hello! You've reached the the number of one Stacy Stitches! If you're calling this number, it's either because I forgot it was tabletop Tuesday, or I've lost my head! In the case of the latter, it's nothing to worry about. If you can't find my old head, just get me a new one. So long as it use to belong to a human, it should do the trick! My preference would be one that matches what's left of my body, you know? But I'm really not too picky. Don't bother leaving a message, I never empty my voice mail, so it won't record, haha!”

It seemed that Marrie would be bringing Stacy back to her place until she could decide how to deal with all of this.

Her home reaserch proved to be fruitful, and not so fruitful. There was plenty of talk online about Justin. Most of it was pretty general, with him being a vampire and owning a lot of property in Pax Septimus. There were some rumors about him owning some silk farms in China and maybe having his own clothing line, but there wasn't anything else about him. There were plenty of stories about his atrocities within the city. It seemed like he made a habit of pulling stunts like this, only to lay low for months at a time before everyone forgot about him. And with the Iron Queen around, people forgot about him quickly.

There was far less on the Knight of Tommorow, to the point where Marrie had to wonder if it was a moniker or slang term for something. Shimr had nothing, and a courtesy internet search just brought up an episode from a batman cartoon with a similar sounding name. But Marrie would get another text while she was doing her research. Again, it was from the coin requester.

So are you up for another job or what? You should be happy I'm willing to hire you again!




News of Pac-a-fist's dissapearance began to spread. Veronica and Luna were among the first to be notified, but the greater circle of freelance espers were also starting to get the message.




"What a most curious array of messages! According to my deductions, there is an odd correlation between who sent the messages. I can't put my finger on it, but it's almost like the same person sent the same message from both phones. Thus, if we find the phones... we find her kidnapper! Come, Pickles! A case like this is one in a lifetime, an no one shall keep us waiting! To Pax Septimus!"




"Ugh, this work sucks! It's too hot this time of year! Hmm? Wait, wha-? Pac's work finally caught up to her? This is big news. If someone sent me a message over this, then others must have heard of it too! I'll back up here and open shop in Pax Septimus!"




"Huh?"

"Angel of hope? What is it?"

"Raphael the Righteous Hearted, something Terrible has happened in Pax Septimus."

"I am not surprised. It is one of the few cities that has no right to exist."

"Pac-a-fist was captured by a vampire."

"Ahhh..."

"You knew her well, if memory serves."

"She was a good girl. She deserved better than this."

"I'm sorry, I did not mean to upset you."

"Don't be, but understand that I cannot remain here any longer."

"You are part of the Inquisition! You cannot leave the Vatican. Let me handle this, I'm a freelancer now."

"A freelancer let Pac-a-fist come to harm, and he was far stronger than you are."

"What will you do?"

"First, I will consult the pope. Then, I will depart for Pax Septimus."

"And if he says you can't?"

"Sister... Do not ask me questions better left unanswered."
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by Majoraa
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Majoraa Oyasumi~

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"This intermission was brought to you part by Ponn."
Current Location: Home
Without any further leads at the moment, Fable decided to head back home before it got too late. He went back to his room, threw on some bed clothes, and passed out soon as he hit the bed.

...Atleast, that's what he hoped to do. For some reason, he couldn't sleep. It wasn't that he didn't feel tired. Maybe he was still feeling stressed? Shouldn't be. Toss here, turn there, yell profanities into your pillow, but that did nothing. After a bit of struggle, the boy finally went to sleep.

After an indeterminate amount of time, Fable would be awoken from his slumber by the sound of a rising hum, which was soon accompanied by a warbling squeal, as if someone were attempting to change the frequency on an old radio. This was followed a few seconds later by a loud *VOP!*, after which, all was once again silent. Silent, but not still… There, a short distance from his bed, Fable could perceive a shimmering, spinning contraption, which somewhat resembled a gyroscope. It was about the size of his desk, and upon a cushioned chair at its center sat a small dog, attired in a steampunk style outfit. As if this wasn’t strange enough, things became stranger still, when the dog began to speak…

“Goodness me!” the canine exclaimed, his voice possessing a somewhat amusing British accent. “I appear to have arrived! Although I must confess, I am not at all sure where, or when, I have arrived to!” Giving voice to a small chuckle, he looked around the room, before his eyes came to rest on the understandably bewildered Fable. “Why, hello there, my good fellow! Might you be so kind as to assist me in ascertaining my chronometric and plenumic location?”

What.

The.

Hell.

For a second, the boy could only stare at the sudden visitor as he processed what just happened. Okay, talking dog. Wouldn't be surprising if he was a monster. A familiar, he guessed? What even is that contraption??? Fable blinked out of his thoughts to answer the dog's question. "U-Uhm. If you mean time and place, you're in Pax Septimus, somehow appeared in my room..." He reached over to a nearby nightstand and grabbed his alarm clock. "And it's almost 6 AM." He added with a tired look. This all felt too alive to be shrugged off as a dream, and since he could still move and speak, he wasn't having a weird sleep paralysis episode either.

“Pax Septimus?” the dog echoed. “Hmmm… I can’t say I’m familiar. Oh, but I do apologize!” he added as he was struck by a sudden realization. “I’ve completely neglected to introduce myself! Parrthineas E. Doxxon the First, at your service!” he declared, while removing his hat and giving a small bow. “But you may call me Parr for short! Now then, if you would do me the kindness of revealing whom I have the great pleasure to be conversing with, I would be most appreciative!”

The boy hesitated, unsure if he should introduce himself as his moniker, or his real name. His eyes narrowed, looking between Parr and the machine. Though that could just be him not entirely awake yet.

"...Finnegan. I either go by Finn or Fable most of the time." He decided to introduce himself properly.

“Ah! What a splendid name! And what splendid nicknames as well! But they do present something of a conundrum. By which would you prefer to be addressed?”

"Uh...Finn, I guess?" Finn sightly tilted his head.

“In that case, it is my most sincere pleasure to make your acquaintance, young Finn!” Parr replied, holding out his paw for a shake. “Do tell, would this be your residence in which I currently find myself?”

"Yeah? Guess I wasn't specific when I said this was my room." Finn rose a brow, then shook the dog's paw. "But yes, this is my house." He clarified.

“And what an aesthetically pleasing home as well!” Parr declared with an approving nod. “Ah! But I am so terribly sorry for my unannounced arrival! Your rather disheveled appearance would suggest that you had been slumbering most fitfully, and so I do apologize for awakening you my dear boy! It is truly a most regrettable state of affairs that I have so very little control over where and when I might appear after each jump, but thankfully I have been met with the face of a friendly and helpful soul far more often than the visage of a fearsome beast! That is, if I am met with anything at all!” Giving voice to another chuckle, he continued. “Now then, if you would be so kind, I should like to run a small number of scans so as to better determine my exact omniversal location. Would this be acceptable?”

At the mention of his appearance, the boy ran his hands through his hair in an attempt to fix it. "I-It's fine. Just make sure you don't wake anyone else up, it'd be hard to explain."

“Most excellent! And you needn’t worry, my dear boy,” he reassured the drowsy youth, “Unlike my conveyance, my various pieces of instrumentation are decidedly less cacophonous!”

With that, he produced an odd wand-like device, featuring four spinning protrusions with a small glowing sphere at the end of each. Three additional, slightly glowing, prongs sat atop it, and as he moved the device across the room, a faint wedge of golden energy extended from them. After the beam had swept the entirety of the room, Parr examined a small readout on the lower portion of the device. “Hmm… Ah yes… Yes, I see… Most fascinating… Most fascinating indeed!” Turning to look at Finn, he added. “You reside in a most extraordinary reality plenum, my dear boy! Truly, I have yet to encounter its like in all my myriad travels thus far! The structure, the framework, it’s all been so meticulously fashioned! I must say, being lost in the infinite omniverse sometimes seems like a small price to pay, when met with discoveries like this!”

Finn's brows rose as he watched the strange dog scan the room. "Reality...plenum? He asked in confusion. "What do you mean by that? And I wouldn't really call a city like this fascinating..."

“Oh, no, not the city,” Parr corrected. “The universe, which, incidentally, is another name for a reality plenum. As it happens, I hail from a universe many trillions of reality plenums distant, where I had just concluded my first year of tenured professorship at my beloved alma mater, Fae Creek Academy! I was hard at work recreating my esteemed father’s greatest invention, the Far Prior Machine, a rite of passage you might say, when, alas, I found myself in something of a creative quagmire, utterly unknowing of how to extricate myself! It was then that a wonderfully helpful visiting scientist named Doctor Nikon or was it Doctor Canon?, suggested that instead of replicating my father’s work, I craft a construct entirely of my own invention! And so, after discussing our mutual appreciation for Edmund Clarke’s thrilling adventure series Professor Panopticon of the TriPlenum Patrol, they informed me that it was actually possible to reach the universe in which said stories really took place! That such tales were not mere fantasy at all, but actual realms that could be visited and interacted with! At the thought of actually conversing with one of my childhood heroes, I knew what needed to be done, and so I turned all my considerable mental prowess to the goal of creating the conveyance you see before you, one which would project me into whatever reality plenum I so desired, the Syllogismobile! Unfortunately, it would appear I had yet to fully master multidimensional polyplenumic engineering, as when I took my creation on its first test jump, I found myself hopelessly lost, adrift on the tempestuous tides of the omniversal ocean! Since then, I have been traveling the various reality plenums, in the hopes that I shall one day return to my beloved home, or at the very least, encounter a being capable of returning me via their own power, or via that of some mechanism they may possess. So it is that I appear before you now, and while this plenum, too, has proven bereft of the aid I seek, I am most grateful to have made your acquaintance, my dear boy. Pray tell, are you a devotee of the sciences as well?”

Even if he didn't fully understand what Parr was talking about, Finn tried his best to keep up with his story. Either this possibly fatigue-driven delusion had layers, or this had confirmed there was a multiverse outside of fiction. Hell, even said fiction might be real if this was anything to go by, and the universe he resides in would be fiction instead!

...Yeah, that's alot to take in. Unfortunate that Parr hasn't been able to perfect the science yet. But the fact that he made it here now ment something. Then the boy was asked if he was a scientist himself. "Well, not sure if you could compare it to something as grand as multidimensional travels," he began to explain, moving out of his bed and towards his desk. A rather cluttered desk, notes and observations about monsters, espers, and magi spread out and hung like an investigaton board. Of course there was also less peculiar stuff like his music player and a laptop. "I'd like to think I'm more of an investigator type, I strive to be one as great as an old friend of mine. But I've been researching stuff like mana, what makes espers tick, and monsters like this fella I had the pleasure of running into." Finn held up one of the pages of notes, a rough sketch of the Crab Rave behemoth drawn on it. "But if what you said about there being a multiverse is true, then I guess have my work cut out for me, huh?" He looked back to Parr with a grin.

“An investigator?” Parr echoed. “Oh how terribly exciting! I, too, greatly enjoy a good mystery! One of my other childhood heroes was the great detective Dirk Dhorlocke! And indeed, science is nothing more than solving the mysteries of the universe, or omniverse, in this case, so you could say I am something of an investigator myself! And that is certainly quite the impressive beast!” Parr exclaimed upon being shown the picture of Crab Rave. “I applaud your courage my dear boy! Ah, but you say you already know a detective of some renown? Was this perhaps a relative of yours?”

"Knew. But yes." The boy clarified. "We aren't related, but I still cared and looked up to him as if he was. Even if we sometimes butted heads." He chuckled. "I hope to one day see him again as someone he could be proud of."

“A most commendable goal to aspire to!” Parr agreed. “And one that it would appear you are well on your way to attaining. If it’s not too much trouble, I would very much like to hear of some of your various investigative exploits,” he added.

Finn scratched the back of his neck. "Well, I haven't exactly done much. Hm..." As he organized his desk, he told Parr about every job he's done so far. He went into detail about Crab Rave, told him about the Date Night job and the subsequent fight against Jan, and caught him up to speed with the situation about Justin.

“My word!” Parr gasped upon being told about Finn’s recent (mis)adventures. “You have certainly experienced quite a great deal of perilous situations, especially for someone of your tender age! I must say, I am most impressed, my dear boy! Most impressed indeed! This Justin fellow, in particular, sounds like quite the unpleasant scoundrel, if I do say so myself, and I wish you the best of luck in apprehending that vampiric villain!”

"Thanks Parr. Really." The boy tiredly smiled.

“You are most welcome, dear boy!” Parr told him. “And I would be only too delighted to assist you in your endeavors to locate your fiendish adversary,” he added. “But, alas, my time in this plenum rapidly draws to a close! Indeed, the possibility particles by which my cross-plenum conveyance is powered are almost fully replenished!” Gesturing to a gold-plated gage, he would show Finn that its glowing readout had but one segment left unfilled. “If there are any inquiries you might have concerning my own extradimensional exploits, now would be the time to voice them!”

He couldn't stay? Finn slightly frowned. He would've appreciated the help, but all the same, he understood why Parr had to leave. This wasn't his home.

"Oh! Uhm, I'm not sure what to ask but," He glanced around, then back to Parr. "Think I'll ever achieve, y'know, stuff like this?" He motioned to the Syllogismobile.

“Why, I have no doubt, my dear boy!” Parr replied. “If you fully apply yourself, your goals shall always be attainable, although they may take longer to achieve than you might desire,” he added with a chuckle. “But fear not, young Finn! You are still a mere youth! In the fullness of time, I imagine you shall surpass even my accomplishments!”

"Even surpass you, huh...?" The boy chuckled at the thought. "Yeah. Yeah, I'll strive to meet your hopes too then! Who knows, perhaps we could see each other again when the day comes!" His grin returned with a newfound resolve.

“A most delightful possibility, indeed!” Parr agreed. “Now then, I must be off!” he added as he once again took his seat at his bizarre machine’s controls. “I had a truly splendid time making your acquaintance, my dear boy, and I eagerly await when next our paths might cross! Tally ho!”

With that, the cross-plenum conveyance began to rapidly spin and whir once more. There was a bright flash, coupled with a loud *VOP!*, and when it faded, Finn would see that both conveyance and canine had vanished, as if they had never existed in the first place.

"Well, that was something." With a yawn, the boy stumbled back to his bed and faceplanted into his pillow.

...Then again, as he looked back at his alarm clock, it was probably too late to go back to sleep. Eh, whatever. A few more hours couldn't hurt.
Hidden 2 yrs ago 2 yrs ago Post by FamishedPants
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FamishedPants CEO of Vanderlay Technologies

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S a m u e l



"Apollo wishes he could get thanked so good."

— Sam



Even though he was denied the succor he requested, Silhouette was not deterred from keeping himself in range should another fight break out, as unlikely as that was. People were vacating the premises, but he would not dare assume what a monster might be thinking, especially one strong and sentient enough to lead Espers astray.

He kept a watchful eye on the departing Espers as best as he could. There wasn't much light to use in the room that wasn't directly coming from another person or their abilities, but Silhouette had adjusted well enough, perhaps due to his affinity for shadows.

His eyes managed to make out the ice sculpture that Klava had created upon her departure. His eyes then betrayed mild disappointment, and he found himself wanting to heave a sigh.

How immature... I am concerned she may not even be in her teens yet with such an elementary display.

Besides, he'd seen much better work on a stall in the boy's bathroom when he was in sophomore year. Granted it was in pen and not ice, but there was a great deal more passion and detail put into the artwork, unlike this amateurish presentation. But lavishing those drawings with praise was a little weird and absurdly arrogant, so he decided to leave it at that.

...or he would have had it not suddenly erupted into a shower of hot liquid all of the sudden.

A drop or two hit his arm, and he slowly turned to face the criminal guilty of destroying it.

“It looks like I’m almost out of mana,” she said rather obliviously.

Samuel was smiling. But of course, he was. He couldn't NOT smile while he was transformed. It was his blessing and curse. Mostly a blessing right now, though. "So I see."

“You should probably ask one of the medics to help you with your hands.”

Any irritation he had evaporated rather quickly when he saw just how exhausted she was. "It will be fine now that things are coming to a close, but thank you for your consideration," his words, as distorted and filled to the brim with demonic malice as they may be, seemed about as genuine as they could get. "You did excellent work today, despite how rough the operation went. To be separated in such dire circumstances and keep a level enough head to make it back and continue to fight during your first large mission truly betrays an incredible will." he encouraged. "I look forward to our next share assignment." Offering a polite bow, Samuel left Ashley with those words.

Samuel decided to transform back into a normal human for the second time in this accursed place. Or rather the first. He certainly didn't intend to the first time.

He did not leave immediately, opting instead to speak to each of his allies before departing. He only barely managed to catch Jacquline before she exited the room, and gave her his thanks for her contributions for the day, but did not keep her so as not to be an annoyance.

His words to Lilliah commended her flexibility and ability to keep her head even against the Nun that had made short work of himself, and he praised the determination and aggressive pursuit of victory that Valkyrie displayed.

As for Su... well, if someone had been actively watching and listening to Samuel's comments on the others, they would find he was a bit less enthusiastic when it came time for her turn. Only a bit, however, and it was not as though it seemed forced, merely that he seemed keener on making sure she knew he was thankful for the save earlier than anything else.

Once he had found and thanked the shit out of Binky, he decided now he could depart. Ice cream was beginning to sound better by the second. Or maybe a beer. Or few? Well, he intended on celebrating his not being dead today by having a decent meal, having courteously inviting those he thanked.

"Hmm?" Samuel caught Ashley stomping on something, only just noticing her because Veronica came from that direction. From the remains, it seemed obvious it was part of that egotist's statute. "Hmm..." He was curious as to what exactly evoked the reaction until a certain thought crossed his mind. Oh, that's right. There wasn't just the ice one, was there? That cursed statue, too...

Oh, wait...I haven't invited agent Orion yet. How rude that would have been!

...and so, once he obtained Ashley's response, he finally set out to leave.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by BrokenPromise
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BrokenPromise With Rightious Hands

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Earlier...

A marble statue stood before Handsome Gunther. It depicted a young woman with her arms raised over her head, and a face frozen in fear. Her toga was pulled tight against her shoulders while ghoulish claws attempted to drag her into the earth.

The ghost tipped his head side to side. He observed it from every angle. Above, below, before floating around all sides. But he was still unsure what its purpose was. He floated up to it and stuck his head inside. Easy enough for a specter to do, as few physical objects impeded their movement. It was dark, but Gunther could smell something inside the statue.

”Ah.“ Gunther pulled his head out. ”Is that gasoline? That must be why you've got torches everywhere.“ He folded his hands behind his back. ”Not bad, Dale, not bad at all.“

“It’s no replacement for Sofron, but I wouldn’t want him on my team anyhow.” Arzendale laughed, taking a sip from his champagne flute. Red stained his lips as he partook in libations, extending another glass to fill from his fountain before offering it to the floating ghost. “How’s the cellar’s renovations going? Suppose you too were against having those kids of yours just plant the place with explosives and bury the intruders?”

”Maverick has Bastion now, so we’re expecting Billy boy and some espers. Explosives won’t set a monster of his caliber back too much. Even less so if he brings some of his monstrous buddies along. And with my luck those kids’d cave the place in. They’ve all got butterfingers, can’t hold nothin’ but fireballs.“ Gunther looked at the glass of wine and raised an eyebrow. Poltergeists couldn’t really interact with the physical world, and that meant drinking from a glass, regardless of what was inside it. But there was a certain image holding a glass conveyed, so Gunther released a single spirit from his tome, and the glass floated between his fingers. ”No love for Sofron huh? I doubt Justin would part with him anyway. Why don’t you like him? Is it his ego, or that he failed to stop a group of espers once already?“

“Neither, dear friend.” The sovereign raised his flute, clinking it against Gunther’s own. “It’s just a matter of generational divide, you see. Sofron’s blood still runs too hot in his veins and for all his experience, he’s still naught more than an esper. Obsessed with power and violence, with singular blows to end fights before they begin. No love for the dance, nor for the rest.” The blood filling his glass rose up, crystallizing into a gem that Arzendale caught between his fangs.

“Mere beasts, the lot of them. And while beasts are fun to toy with, they are so bothersome to leash, especially when his favorite methodology involves setting everything ablaze with arcane flame.” The sanguine crystal shattered, and he smiled as if he had eaten a piece of candy. “Though passion and practicality too has its merits I suppose. This soul is simply too old to appreciate the efficiency espoused by this era of esper.”

”Their passion is the most interesting thing about them. So short lived, but the brightest candles often are.“ Gunther went to drink, but the blood ran down the side of the glass instead of his intangible throat. ”Yet we are both working with espers anyway. Justin’s letting me use his violin player. Going by what you said about Sofron, you wouldn’t like her. I’ve taken to calling her ‘wild child’ when I know she can’t hear me.“ His tube-like lips curled into a smile ”But there are some people who really care about her, and it’ll be fascinating to see what happens if they meet.“ He jostled his flute and watched the blood swirl inside the glass. ”The sight of blood does nothing for me Dale. But emotion? That’s something I could get drunk off of.“

“That is what sustains us, isn’t it? Though as the architect of your own defenses, would it not be a simple matter for you to dangle this wild child of yours above, say, a lake of liquid death and see which of them takes the bite?”

”I could, but honestly Dale? I’m not an old fashioned villain. Tying her up over pits of lava or to train tracks isn’t my thing.“ With a chuckle, Gunther attempted to drink a second time, and a second bead of blood ran down the side of the glass. ”I don’t want to be an interface for their despair. Humans are selfish, love to get angry, and they don’t forgive easily. If I tie her up somewhere dangerous, they’re going to target that hatred at me. But if I let her run free? If she tells her friends how much she hates them with her own lips? If they kill her because she’s too strong to neutralize otherwise? Then they have to turn that hatred on themselves or her.“ He shook his head. ”In this day and age, humans only take responsibility for things they do directly. I’m not going to hang her over a pool of liquid death, because I know they’ll push her into it for me.“

“That’s a fair enough point, but to play the devil’s advocate just a little bit, I do believe the nature of interfacing means that they’ll neither blame themselves nor that tiger cub.” The beads that rolled off Gunther’s glass crawled back up, slithering into the flute once more. Arzendale placed his own empty glass back into the pallid hands of his fountain, his gaze turning towards that massive portrait of Justin once more. “They’ll naturally turn their hatred to the young master himself, no matter how genuine the cub’s vitriol is. Hatred feeds best upon grand ideas and unreachable targets, after all, so for it to direct itself onto an individual instead…well, staining your hands is the bare minimum here.”

”I think it’s worth mentioning that I have no preference for who or what feels despair. The espers are only half the equation after all. Wild child, the little pyromancers, all capable of feeling things that their fellow man inflicts on them. It’s all just a bonus on top of keeping the mansion safe. It’s not always possible to invoke despair in humans.“ He rolled his eyes off to the side. ”There are going to be people who feel no remorse. Humans that delight in just killing things, more so than any ‘monster’ an esper would try to slay. But in those cases, I’m unsure if there is an approach that works for them.“ Gunther put on a crooked smile. ”You might not approve, but I’d be okay with them hating master Carnage. You live a lot longer when you don’t make yourself the subject of people’s ire, so I’m fine with all that being put against him instead of me. I’m sure he revels in that hatred anyway.“

“Ah, and so, our friendship ends,” Arzendale chuckled, “for I too am an exceedingly greedy being, desiring nothing more than the rage of all those who’d face me. Life is little more than a dream, so spoke the poet. Transient and fleeting, yet stagnant and suffocating. It delights me to know though, Gunther, that you still possess that attachment to life, in spite of your current constitution.”

The sovereign pressed his nail against his fountain again, creating a new spot from which crimson flowed. Bringing it up to blot out the candlelight of the chandelier, Arzendale marveled at the complexities of light and shadow within human blood.

“When this falls, will you flee? Or will you perish?”

”I don’t want you to get the wrong idea, Dale. Like any poltergeist, I’ve never actually lived. It’s been places like this where people’s grudges build until I came into being. And while I may exist, I don’t truly live unless I’m taking in spectacles like what this foyer will become!” Gunther cast his arms out at his surroundings, spinning into the air. ”I only lament that we can’t work together.”

“But alas, it wouldn’t be any fun for either of us, and the side we leave uncovered would inevitably be broken through.” Arzendale shrugged languidly. “Mayhaps another opportunity will present itself, my friend. The Bates could pay a visit after GEMINI and Maverick do. Though those two are just another collective of pyromaniacs in a long line of them.”

”It is just a job at the end of the day.” Gunther said with a bow. ”It would be an opportunity to test your ability against Sofrons indirectly, would it not?”

“A job for you, a diversion for me.” Arzendale raised his glass and drained it dry. “And perhaps it would be a worthwhile trial, but the stories I’ve heard of Sofron in his youth make even darling Regina’s tantrums dim in comparison. Pity, what he is now.”

A snort.

“A toast, to the Timekeeper, that nagging whoreson.”

”Cheers.”

After the glasses clicked, both creatures tipped back their glasses.
Hidden 2 yrs ago Post by mantou
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mantou The Fried Kind

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Not The Kids!

LOCATION: THE BASTION
"..."

The Protector was at a loss.

Damn it all-- in English even! Why did it have to come out from this side of the mansion? The exasperated suit of armor scratched the back of its helmet, a little bit frustrated that it made the decision to make this exit without having a halfway-decent plan about how to return to those kids. One thing was for sure - the garage door entrance they found was accessed through the underground... so, the subway was out of the question, being a good ten or fifteen kilometers into the city. It rushed here by bus, and so it really needed to take a moment to jog its memory back while it sprinted all the way around the mansion.

Once reaching a very rough above-ground estimate of where the garage heading into the wine cellar was, the Protector looked around. There were no obvious entrances into the inner workings of the underground labyrinth, but... there was a manhole.

It rushed to it, questioning if its strength would be enough to open the thing before it realized it was still in its esper form. Quickly, it held its shield over the cover, its gravitational pull lifting the manhole lid with surprising ease. Obstruction cleared, it secured its shield to its back and made its way down the ladder, hoping for the best.

It was dark, it was damp, and it was hella cramped. There was no way it would detransform, though. Not with all the muck and moisture. The esper couldn't have been more thankful for its suit of armor; clearly, its privileged upbringing didn't ever oversee its willing entrance into any city's underbelly. Yet, there it was. The things it'd do for children, after all.

So it sucked it up and just tried its damn best to move fast without slipping.



”Eat… Babies!?” Trixy raised an eyebrow. ”Is that something they accused us of before I showed up? Because that is a new one. Billy doesn’t spare monsters who can’t change their ways, and baby eating is something that would have to go!” Trixy sighed before hoisting her rocket launcher over her shoulders. ”I get why the Gems hate us. Monsters feed on our bad vibes, and some of them need to take it a bit further to survive. I mean take vampires for existence: They need human blood to survive. But they don’t need to kill the humans they feed on, and you could feed them donated blood in a pinch.” With a groan, she looked back at what was left of the wine cellar. ”Baby eating… Jez certainly never ate any babies. She was a nice girl, but she was always more Tetrad’s friend than mine. I don’t think she liked me too much. Heh, the feeling wasn’t mutual though.”

“Right,” Klava nodded. It more or less mapped with her own understanding of monsters, in they were more emotional vampires than actual cannibals, feeding off memories. Killing babies was one way to make parents sad but in terms of actual investments? It was like bankrupting a company in one sector in order to make a totally different company wealthier: you could just have both companies be wealthy instead. “Well, guess this Jez wasn’t big on baby carrots then.”

An awkward pause, followed by a swift redirect.

“Still, this actually alright in the long run? You sorta showed the way to Bastion to a buncha Freelancers who’re pretty ok with selling you out.”

”We’ll be fine. If there’s two things Billy does better than anyone else, it’s cause cave ins and build tunnels.” The corners of her lips twitched into a forced smile. ”Any monster can cause a cave in, and Bastion is nothing more than a complex cave system. The Gems would need to be suicidal to come fight us underground. Well, unless they had some way to protect themselves from cave ins as they chased us through Bastion’s long corridors. But Billy’s a little unique in that he’s really good at creating stuff too. In a few hours, he can create a brand new path if it’s not too far away from Bastion’s system.” She shrugged. ”It takes a bit longer to make it pretty, but survival is the goal right now.”

“Hmm.”

Klava could figure out a few unethical ways of dealing with perpetually subterranean enemies, but there was no great need for her to do so either. Her proverbial hat was with the Mavericks, after all, and that bit of creativity may not be so appreciated. “Well it’s good that you’ve figured things out on that front then. Must do wonders for your skin too if you can permanently dodge the sun.”

Though before any small talk could be had, they would soon realize they were not alone.

“Ah!”

A deep, metallic yelp echoed from just around the corner from where the group stood, accompanied by the heavy scampering of what sounded like a giant hunk of metal lumbering about in the darkness of the labyrinth. The creaks of metal grew closer the longer they waited. Billy and Trixy prepared their weapons before advancing toward the unfamiliar sound.

In time, they would find that the disembodied, tincanny voice would be none other than the Protector’s, who managed to haul enough ass in time to make it before they left. This presence would be made clear as a gauntleted hand gripped the wall for support, before pulling itself into view, clearly wary of its surroundings after seemingly having slipped somewhere on its way there.

”Oh, uhm… hello...”

The voice spoke with a low, gruff voice. Clearly, its vocals were more than enough to sound intimidating if it tried, but why did it sound as if it was about to start crying? Its spear and shield were secured safely to its back. It showed no signs of threat or ill-intentions as it approached the group slowly, rubbing its gauntleted hands together like a kid who’d done something wrong. Before it got too close, however, it slowly fell to the ground and mushed its head to the floor. With palms on the floor and helmet lowered in shame, it simply wanted to apologize.

”I’m really, very, truly sorry for leaving like that. I have no excuses other than… I was scared, and I didn’t want to risk anything else happening.” The Protector spoke earnestly, it's head still plastered to the ground. Its accent began to deviate from normal, almost sounding foreign. ”I’m sorry, it was so shameful of me. Please forgive me– I didn’t have enough guts.” If its esper form could cry, it would have done so right then and there. “Guts” was a word it learned just while watching a movie just the other day. Unfortunately, its mind was tired, anxious, and stressed all in one– its English vocabulary depleted itself as it spoke. Unfortunately, this was far from an appropriate moment to pull out a dictionary. Instead, it issued a silent prayer as it waited there on the floor.

”We lost one of our own over what happened back there.” Billy didn’t lower his sword, and Trixy looked like she was fighting just to keep herself from pulling the trigger.

”We saved you...” Trixy growled through her teeth.

”The hell are you even doin’ here?” Billy hugged the teenagers a bit tighter. ”Government didn’t put ya up to some shit already, did they?”

The Mavericks were right to be suspicious, but Klava was quicker on the uptake. She took a step closer to Protector, past the line of Billy’s sword. “You’re here for the kids, yeah?”

”En.” The Protector furiously shook its head when Billy suggested that it was collaborating with the GEMINI, and nodded into the ground when Klava spoke. It hadn’t moved from its prostrate position on the floor. I promised them that I’d come back for them... It raised its head to look at Klava before looking back down in guilt.

Trixy inhaled before lowering her rocket launcher. Her lips twitched. She turned to Billy, but before she could speak, the giant beat her to it.

”Wait just a cotton-pickin’ minute.” He was still holding onto his sword, but it was his outstretched finger he had pointed at Protector. ”So you’re sayin’ you came to pick up these kids here?” The teenagers remained silent, but it was clear they just wanted today to end. ”That ain’t somethin’ I can do.”

”Why not?” Trixy placed a hand on her hip. ”Not like the Bastion is the best environment for a bunch of teenagers.”

”That ain’t teenagers, they’re sorcerers: humans gifted with uncontrollable powers.” Billy squinted his eyes. ”They ain’t ever gunna have a normal life. Probably bounced from home to home before they wound up here.” He looked at the boy, who nodded before Billy continued. ”If GEMINI learns about their existence, they’re gunna get put down or experimented on in some lab. Ya already proved to me ya gunna turn coat once the chips are down. Faster than a hiccup!” He gave the kids a light shake. ”It ain’t personal, I also told these kids I wouldn’t abandon them. Which is why I can’t leave ‘em in yer hands.”

Klava looked at Protector, her expression carefully neutral. “It’s against the law to house two homeless teenagers. At worst, it’s abduction. At best, it’s aiding in delinquency. So leave it to people who are already criminals in the eyes of the law.” Her gaze turned towards Billy, a backwards glance at the monster and the children he held in his hands.

“Protector has wronged you, but they would return to you for the sake of those kids. Will you allow them to visit in the future?”

At this, the Protector raised its head from its lowered position to look at the kids.

”Mmmmm...” The giant sheathed his sword. ”If they really wanna…” His eyes rolled towards the teenagers. ”What do you guys think?”

”I don’t know!” The boy grunted. ”You’re not going to let us stay here, right?!”

”Justin fled, don’t think any of his servants stayed behind. Not to mention GEMINI is there. Wouldn’t recommend it.”

The girl placed a hand on the side of her head. ”I just want to sit down…”

”I’m gunna say it’s in the cards.” Billy looked to Klava. ”Can’t say I’d let them meet in the Bastion. Now ain’t exactly the best time to be talkin’ bout this anyway.”

”...Then, perhaps we can move somewhere else to discuss this.” The Protector rubbed the eyeholes of its helmet before it slowly rose. ”I wanted to provide them a place in my home. I have the money… so I thought I could take care of them well.” It shook its head. ”But Klava is right, and I don’t want them to stay here for long either.” The sentinel looked toward Billy and the children. ”All I can ask is that you let me know where you’ll be keeping them…”

”They’ll be stayin’ in the Bastion for a bit.” Billy took his fist and bumped it against an adjacent wall. The low, dull rumble of some machinery spurred to life. The giant continued to walk forward as a second collapse happened behind them. Concrete and rebar barred any access to the mansion. ”In a few days, I’ll get in touch with ya on Shimr. Kids need a break from this crap right now.” He stepped past Protector with Trixy following just behind him. He looked over his shoulder at Klava. ”Headin’ back to the surface?”

“Yeah, in a bit.” Klava’s lips quirked up. “But about the payment. I’m receiving the others’ share now, yeah?”

”Hah!” The only thing that made it evident Billy was smiling was that his cheeks were poking out from the top of his mask. ”Where the hell are ya hidin’ yer balls? Talkin’ like that I imagine they’re the size of texas!” He rolled his shoulders. ”Payin’ ya the wage of four espers for a botched operation is a little high. You’ll be gettin’ a good bonus though, just not that good.”

As Billy turned around to walk deeper into the Bastion, Trixy ran up beside him. ”Do I get a bonus?”

”Did you even do anythin’, Trixy?”

Their banter stopped as soon as they were out of sight.

Klava smirked. The smirk faded once the Mavericks were out of sight, and she rounded on Protector, her gaze ice-cold.

“So. Explain.”

The Protector raised its gauntlet to rub the back of its armored elbow. During that whole time, it could only manage to listen and stay quiet. ”I…” What could it say? How could it have the audacity to even try? ”...I really have no excuse. I was scared. I didn’t want to see anyone else get hurt if we stayed behind with the Mavericks, and I also didn’t want to see anything bad happen to the GEMINI…”

”I’m really sorry… I will admit, that my loyalty does not lie with either organization, but I have people I’d like to see safe on both sides. You are one of them.”

“No, not that. I meant this whole showing up to Bastion after you expressly left them for dead,” Klava replied, massaging the bridge of her nose. “Like, imagine the Fritz. Imagine busting back into GEMINI HQ after taking a deal with the monsters and leaving them to get eaten. What didja think would’ve happened, huh?”

”...” The Protector let out a sigh. ”It’s like I said– I made a promise to those kids. Gah, I didn’t even get to ask them for their names…”

”...But even then, this was a pretty dumb idea, huh? Eh heh…” The suit of armor let out a dry chuckle, and then another sigh, clearly more drained than anything else.

“A promise is something you keep, not something you kill yourself over!” Klava snapped. “And yes, that was pretty fucking stupid! You knew that I was literally there with the Mavericks. Could’ve shot me a SHIMR message or anything to confirm what the situation is, but no, you just went on by yourself to double-tap your own death!”

She flung her hands into the air.

“Like, what, did you forget the part where the Fritz also said the GEMs’d fuckin’ kill you if you consorted with monsters again? What do you think heading back into Bastion sounds like, huh? Think there wouldn’t be any footage of you skulking around and then disappearing underground? Christ alive, Aria! Don’t go and become Depraved this fast!”

”..." The Protector winced as it listened, but somehow managed to feel a little lighter in the end. It took a while, but eventually it responded. ”...Yeah, you're right, Klava. I really won't be able to help anyone if things reach that point." It lowered its head.

”I didn't think being a freelancer would be so difficult for me," The Protector said slowly. ”But I'll keep on trying my best. It was my decision to settle down like this, anyway. And, uhm…"

”Thank you for your concern. I felt like crying listening to your words. Not because I was being scolded, but because you cared enough to do so. For my safety…" A sniff resonated from the sentinel as it instinctively reached up to rub its helmet's nose.

God, Klava hated this. How can she even fucking sustain her anger when Protector’s like this? The dark-haired priestess drew in another deep breath of air, sucking up all the tension in her shoulders, before exhaling deeply.

“You don’t need to be a freelancer.” The words came out sharply. “If you don’t need the money, then you don’t need to work for it.” Her eyes bore into the holes of the giant’s helmet. “And if you don’t work for money, you don’t have any obligation to do what others think is right.”

Why be a freelancer, when you could just be free?

Klava walked past Protector briskly, the bells in her shoes clinking with every step.

“Think on it.”
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