FunnyGuy

Avalia

Time: Sunset
Location: Outskirts of Chesm (5), Illuminata Kingdom
Interaction with: None.

Three days had passed since the small group crossed the channel. Two goblins drowned but made for decent food for the rest once retrieved when their bodies washed up on a muddy bank. Goblin Boss Dari had also cemented his role by beating down another goblin that night. Skar expected nothing less of her band of creatures when they managed to raid a few small tribes of goblins and subjugate their survivors. Skar needed the goblins to be numerous and luckily for her, they were creatures that thrived by increasing their numbers through rapid breeding and assimilating smaller tribes. The weak would perish as quickly as the defiant under Skar's leadership.

The powerful orc sat perched upon a high rock in a clearing within the woods as she watched the sunset with a cold and hardened expression. Her band of barely a dozen had multiplied at least four times in these few days, but vast numbers would not assure continuous victory. Her minions needed better weapons. Branches fashioned into spears and arrows would only take them so far. Tonight, Skar and her band of creatures would hit a convoy of traders returning to Lora from Chesm.

"Skar!" Dari scampered to the rock where Skar sat and kneeled before it. "Scouts return and ambush is ready. We are ready." The goblin informed as he looked up at Skar with his crooked smile. Skar grunted and looked around at the rest of her minions that had been enjoying their time of leisure.

"WARPACT!" Her bellow grabbed the attention of the troll, ogre, and all of the goblins around her. If they weren't standing before, they were now. The troll and ogre towered over the goblins, now having their own very interesting names. Myre the Troll, and Ra the Ogre… both named due to their large appetites that reminded Skar of a certain someone. "We move! WE ARE READY!!! Goblins! Move to spots! Myre! Ra! Come with me! We raid! We take! WE CONQUER!" Skar roared before she hopped off of the rock, landing on the dirt ground as the last of the sun's light made its departure.

Avalia

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @Tae Azriel

Azriel's words were familiar. Perhaps it was what her words meant.

"Most if not all will have their heads filled with lies of his inability to do so. They will flee, fight, and even attempt to kill you."

"...every day you fail to separate your kind from these desperate rebels, the less likely they are to leave."

"Those that choose to stay… I'll leave that up to you, but they will continue to fight if there is a rebellion to fight for."

Kol, Malgormuun, and now Azriel. There was no need for them to go into detail of what they meant, but maybe it was because of that, he mentally pushed it aside. He was attempting to be optimistic so he wouldn't have to think about it, but it was a fantasy he tried to sell to himself. That every single person has a life they want to go back to. Malgormuun stated himself that this world was enticing and that the life on Earth Darius knew might not be anywhere near as pleasant as someone else's life.

"Well that's why I'm here, Azriel." His smile returned. "You said I was the charming one right? Or did you actually admit that you found me handsome?" He joked before his smile started to die. He was going to speak seriously again. "I think they'll hear me out… I don't even know if I'm prepared to do what I'd need to if they don't. Am I supposed to actually… Azriel, I've never even done that before. To anyone… If I'm being honest, I hope I don't ever have to cross that line. But it's also foolish to believe it's impossible."

---

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction with: @Tae Torvi

---

Umber was a bit surprised by the human he now danced. She was a great actress, or perhaps just a master of hiding herself. Unlike her companion, she kept herself cool… most of the time. Torvi did not wear her nervousness, but it squeezed its way out at the front and end of her attempts at deceiving him.

"Powerful? Oh, Vaeril is an elf of wealth, influence, and sure he's passionate, but he's… He's more of a scholar." Umber chuckled seemingly in jest at making fun of Vaeril. In reality, he was having quite a bit of fun speaking so freely about Aklenroth. He enjoyed the Lich King's rule, but he would also enjoy the rule of a blind crippled troll if he was permitted to indulge in his hobbies.

Torvi's response to Umber's line on fear bore interest. For one, she was being completely honest. No nervousness, no deceit. Her beliefs fell in line with the orcs, which made him wonder how these humans were so randomly packaged. So many different beliefs and temperaments, and there were more to discover.

"Death? As precious as you may be, I have to disagree. Everyone fears death. You could see it coming and even make the best guess as to how it will feel. You could be confident in your belief that things will turn out more prosperous after facing it…. But you will fear it all the same. And sure, you can say that you don't fear your own demise, but death is not limited to just yourself. You could love someone with all of your being, and death can snatch them away with no limits to its reach or cruelty… I believe it's natural to fear it and we should be aware of those that fear it so much they seek to escape it. It is not the power over death that makes a Lich King… It's the fear of it."

Umber had gotten more intense than he sought to. The talk of death pulled him in too much. If only his face could display regret.

"Anyway, that is the kind of thinking Vaeril is interested in. Those that seek to make one's fears a reality."

Ember Grove - Reboot

Time: Night
Location: Ember Grove University Parking Lot
Interaction with: @Tae Maeve

"You have got to be kidding…" Alexander stopped his car before letting out a low growl. He backed the car into a spot before quickly getting out to look at the windshield covered in what he immediately sniffed out to be a mixture of paint and Chemical V. "A child did this?" Alexander's eyes followed the small figure entering the University… on a skateboard. His eyes narrowed.

"I will kill th-" A soft-spoken woman suddenly spoke at his side. She had been quiet and swift when approaching her leader. His interruption was just as swift.

"No. If the men do their job correctly, whoever that is will find death without your help…" His eyes had remained on the building before facing the female. "Were there any complications?"

"No. We got about a dozen tonight."

"Good. Now grab a partner and get this mess cleaned…" Alexander held a cold look at first before smiling. He tossed his keys to the female. "Then you can have it for the night. I expect it back in New Paeonia by dusk tomorrow." The old vampire informed. He then looked to Maeve's vehicle that was just pulling up. He expected some sort of verbal jab, but instead, she offered to give him a ride. He flashed a friendly smile and proceeded to get into the passenger's seat. "I assume I owe you now…" Alexander glanced at the box truck leaving while two female vampires moved to enter the university in order to get the needed supplies to remove the paint from the windshield.

"I think a nice tip will do to make us even Ms. Brannigan. If you happened to drink the wine back there…" Alexander took an exaggerated deep inhale before exhaling "...and you definitely did. All you would need is to die and voila! Maeve is reborn anew! You would be just like a phoenix. My phoenix of course." Alexander joked, but he wasn't lying either. He respected Maeve and had grown fond of her, but as long as she was not one of his own, he was unable to completely ensure her safety from his and his people's activities.

Ember Grove - Reboot

Time: Night
Location: Art Exhibition, Ember Grove University
Interaction with: @Tae Maeve, @Potter Shay, @princess Angel, @Milkman Finn, @Helo Elias

"Triple? Ms. Brannigan, I would never stop someone for overpaying for my work…." Alexander's eyes darted towards exhibition entrance as five men entered, all casually dressed. One might have taken them for students, though these five were familiar nor enrolled. Alexander's eyes met one of theirs from across the room. The man gave a swift nod before three of them spread themselves among those in attendance. The other two, just remained close to the entrance. "All I request is that you leave this venue after your purchase… A woman like yourself shouldn't get too mixed up in this kind of crowd. And I'm really looking forward to playing a game or two with you."

Alexander remained cryptic, but he was sure she knew what he was getting at. During this entire event he had worn a fake smile to be as welcoming as he could, but now his smile was genuine. The vampire was looking forward to what would occur in the next few minutes. Even if he wouldn't be there to participate. He cleared his throat and turned from Maeve to address his guests.

"I am so grateful for how many of you came to look upon my artwork! Truly! I almost want to not make this my last exhibition, but unfortunately, I must move on from this passion and onto others! The exhibition has not ended just yet, but I must leave early to attend to some personal matters. The artwork will stay up for the next hour. If you wish to purchase a piece, speak to Charles at the entrance or Demetri here who is currently selling a piece as I speak! Some of the remaining paintings will be donated to the university! The one that was artfully drawn on is up for bid starting at one dollar! There will also be more cheese and some of the better quality wine coming in shortly. Now, as much as I would love to partake, I bid you farewell, hope you all enjoy your evenings and live it to the fullest!" Alexander gave a quick wave before making his exit.

"Oh uh Ms. Brannigan… I didn't know you were here. The painting is currently priced at eight grand. I can begin having it wrapped right now." Demetri was attempting to speed up the transaction. He was aware of who Maeve was, and knew she had the funds to buy the pieces available. There was also the fact that he was trying to get her out of the exhibition quickly so she was not caught at the wrong place at the wrong time.

Four more men entered with fresh wine and assorted cheese. Alexander walked the campus grounds, now alone and feeling accomplished. It had been a fine night. He would even get to drive his vehicle home. As he entered the parking lot, he noticed about a dozen women packing the last of the many long boxes into the back of a box truck. He smiled in their direction before entering his car.

"I think I should start being more progressive… The men do the dirty work and the women prepare the food… God, I am always behind the times." Alexander jokingly complained as he pulled out of his spot and drove away with the box truck following. In two minutes, the eleven vampires at the exhibition would spring their attack on all in attendance.

Ember Grove - Reboot

Time: Dusk
Location: Operation Humanity Base
Interaction with: @Andreyich Valentin

---

That leftover Taco Bell wasn't too bad. Something you want to eat fresh though… And I'm 90 percent sure it was Angel's… She'll forgive me if she ever finds out it was me. I think.

Sean popped a stick of spearmint gum into his mouth as he headed to the Trotter's office… Empty. He could have texted Valentin again but opted to just head to the conference room instead. He did mention others, so that room would be the likely setting for whatever plan he wanted to suggest. As he entered the room, Valentin was just starting to explain how to get this Finn kid. He was the subject matter expert when it came to how to deal with supernatural at the university. His mention of other agents in the vicinity piqued his curiosity. He had just woke up, but he tried to always remain informed of current operations.

While waiting for the contract hunter to finish with his briefing of what he thought was best for a capture mission, Sean shared a brief look with Colonel Trotter. No matter how many times he saw the man, Sean witnessed the same look. It was as if that serious and unpleasant look never left the colonel's face.

"Hey Val, who's at the university right now. You mentioned agents already on the campus. Maybe we can use them in this operation."

"Angel and Remy. I'm not sure why they are wandering freely Agent Stone, but it would behoove you to reign in our assets. Especially those two…. Valentin, good work. You may be a contractor, but you and most times Sean bring innovation to the table. In-group, you heard the man. I need two Out-group agents to approach the roommate convince him to cooperate and two more to gather some DNA from Michael Cooper… If there are no further questions, head out."

There were a few "yes sirs" amongst the group before feet started moving. Sean remained with his eyes on Trotter.

"I know you tacked the two ladies as my responsibility, but you can't expect me to play babysitter when we have ops to run. Aren't the agents that were experimented on supposed to make the job easier?"

"Are you volunteering for enhancements? If not, get moving and protect the assets who have them." Trotter said coldly as he moved to make his exit from the conference room.

Enhancements. That's what some of the brass and scientists called it now. Sean stuck to the proper term, experiments. Sean didn't know the ins and outs of all of it, but he was sure the whole thing was fucked up. Remy was proof enough that children were used and Angel was proof that it was not exactly consensual or what it was made out to be. Even with all the side effects and risk of death due to "complications," there was a bit of temptation. The enemy was stronger, faster, more resilient. Any edge over them was considered. The only downside that really turned Sean off was becoming the property of Operation Humanity. Despite what others said, you were no longer an agent. You were property, equipment, an "asset" with no freedom.

Avalia

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction with: @Tae Torvi

---

Umber kept up his friendly smile as he guided Torvi across the dance floor.

"Torvi… It's always wonderful to be introduced to someone with a name I've never encountered. It shows that life still has new things to offer me." He commented before continuing to move to the music with grace. This form that Aklenroth had given him was so easy to use. Fewer arms, fewer eyes, no tail, and he could comfortably fit through entryways. The most difficult addition was the mouth. The only thing he had learned was to smile. He had been told that it was all he would need when emoting, but he disagreed. The faces of many of his victims contorted in many unique ways and he doubted a smile could replace all of them. Then again, he had heard that joy could be found anywhere.

When Torvi asked about the ball's host, he looked up towards "Vaeril," seated at the upper level of the ballroom with a blank expression. When his gaze returned to Torvi, his smile returned. He had already identified her as a human, but perhaps she could lead him to more. He would engage her in conversation and present himself as trustworthy.

"You sound as if you fancy him. Vaeril… I didn't become acquainted with him until about half a century ago, but I can only speak positively of him. He's an elf that is very out of his time. You know, the type that wishes to shape the world for the better the best they can, but they are just much too late… This ball means a lot to him. A chance to find those who might have a likeness of mind… I want to help him find people who believe in what he does and I believe there are some in attendance… Those who believe that it's only natural that all things fear death."

Umber had rambled... or did he. If he wanted to find rebels and make them trust him, he had to act like one himself. He couldn't be blatant or wait for his prey. He needed to bait them like a hunter using a call or urine to lure them into a false sense of familiarity and comfort. Umber did not have the ability to use his illusions, but a silver tongue worked just as well.

---

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @Tae Azriel

Darius had been having fun speaking to Azriel, but that hadn't stopped him from feeling a little down about not having run into another human since arriving in Avalia. Her answer about Jack, was honestly one he didn't quite understand. Everyone had something off to say about this Jack guy. There were never positive things said about him, which led Darius to believe that the guy might not be mentally fit. Darius was aware the DROMs weren't selective when choosing what to pull into Avalia. Anything and anyone was fair game.

His idea of Jack's inability was quickly pushed aside by Azriel's next statement. Her mention of several humans being identified at the ball caused him to stop in his tracks. He stared into her eyes in his silent shock. He had been told previously not to expect any humans to be here, and according to Azriel Umber had found several.

"What… Several?" Darius said in a hushed voice that was on the verge of coming out at a normal volume that would carry his words to other ears. He noticed they were still among dancing couples and started up dancing again, his face appearing pensive beneath his mask. He wanted to pull her off to the side and ask her a thousand questions before finding Umber and asking a thousand more. Maybe if I make some kind of announcement. They'll listen and then we can all catch the next Amora back to the castle. Then we'll all be on our way home.

Calm yourself… And you were doing so well in this tense environment, Darius. Answer me. If there are humans… Malgormuun's voice interrupted his scattered thoughts. If there are humans…

Then there are rebels… And that means I can't expose myself. I have to keep a cool head and try to locate more if they're here.

Good… The angel's words have reminded you that this is no time for leisure. You have an objective! Focus, Darius… The demon's voice faded with those final words.

He had kept his eyes on Azriel's while briefly mentally conversing with the demon, Malgormuun.

"And we'll find them all. Every single one, along with those that are hiding them." His voice was both confident and serious. "Any tips on what to look for?"

Ember Grove - Reboot

Time: Dusk
Location: Art Exhibition, Ember Grove University
Interaction with: @Tae Maeve

The idea of writing poetry almost caused the old vampire sigh. He’d tried that in the late 1400s, but he didn’t find it to be overly fulfilling on its own. To Alexander, poetry was like a great condiment you could apply to other arts of life. And even if he found a style that would sate his yearning for new mastery, he had wanted to try something a bit outside of his scope. Something new… Well new for him. Alexander was a bit behind on the times, which meant his bucket list for new hobbies seemed endless. Almost three millennia and he had only started about a half-century ago. He would probably be 4 thousand before he ever got around to mastering basketball.

However, he couldn’t allow himself to hang on that, the most important matter at the moment was the girl. Sure, he hadn’t put too much pressure on his clan to find the escaped Shay Knight, but he couldn’t allow her to venture freely. If she fled the county in fear, fine. If she was dead, perfect. What he didn’t want was a situation where she lingered in the area. Alexander was sure Operation Humanity had a faint idea of his clan’s activities and surely his identity, but he did not need some fifth-rate witch spreading the word of his in-house operations.

“Lost lover? Lost, yes.” Alexander peered once to his left and then once to his right before speaking gently with a slight grin while slightly closing the distance between the two. “She’s not one of yours I can assure you. And she can’t compare, I promise, but she is like yourself… If you look behind you, at your eight o’clock, there she is. Painted to perfection about to be purchased on a bid, Shay Knight. Escaped my custody about a week ago. I figured she'd run to a coven for protection.” Alexander studied the young woman that was bidding with the wealthier gentleman who had shown a desire for the painting since first walking in. The girl appeared to be a student. It would be an oddity if she could afford the painting, but Alexander was aware of how looks could be deceiving as he was a prime example himself. As Maeve looked onward, he piped up. ”Billiards. My new hobby will be billiards.” He announced evenly.

Ember Grove - Reboot

Time: Dusk
Location: Operation Humanity Base
Interaction with: @Andreyich Valentin

---

Oh he’s here? Damn, you’d think a witch was charming me with luck. Sean smirked at his phone as he had just left a brief briefing regarding the Coopers. Besides a bit of a history lesson on the pack, Sean didn’t learn of anything too out of the ordinary about Michael and Finn. If anything, Sean was starting to think Colonel Trotter just had a vendetta, a justifiable one, but still a grudge. While traversing the halls, Sean decided to type up a reply to his colleague.

Perfect timing then. I’m at the base as well and can meet up with you and the colonel.Can’t wait to see what you got cooked up.

Sean put his phone in his pocket and proceeded towards a break room to get his hand on a quick snack. Then, he’d head for Trotter’s office.

Avalia

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction: @Tae Azriel

Angel of death? Now that's a badass title. I gotta earn my own while I'm here. Darius placed his freehand at the small of her back. Avoiding touching her wings seemed like common sense. You're not supposed to ruffle a bird's feathers, so why would you ruffle the ones of a woman who was friendly with a frightening demon.

"Jack? I actually never got to meet the guy. He can take the slot for normal. Just think of me as the… hm?" Darius smiled as he pretended to ponder. "How about the better one? Handsome one?" Darius chuckled which caused him to get distracted enough to miss a beat.

When he had first approached Azriel, he could tell his words stunned her a bit, but in a good way. If he could have a good time while in turn granting her the same, then perhaps tonight he could say he didn't find any rebels or humans, but he sure as hell found a friend.

"Sorry, I got distracted." He said with his head down as he tried to correct their offbeat steps to the music playing. Once he thought he got them back on track, his eyes met hers again. "Where is this Jack guy anyway? I haven't had the chance to meet anyone like him yet… But hey, you're just as good if not better, but you know what I mean, right? Sometimes I feel like I might be the last one left." Darius' voice quieted as his smile faded at his own negative outlook on the situation. He had been in Avalia for almost two weeks and hadn't even seen another human. Was this place just that vast? Were there just not many humans left? Or perhaps he was the opposite of what he claimed he was. Unlucky.

Avalia

Time: Late Afternoon
Location: Roshmi Grand Hall
Interaction with: @Tae Torvi, Azriel, @Alivefalling Aklenroth, and @Eviledd1984 O'ner

---

Umber smirked as he watched Belladonna's reaction to her female companion stepping away from their table whilst following her bat-shaped paper slip.This fool is just sad… The rebels should have kept this one away from this ball… A being that is a stranger to their own emotions lacks the capacity to reign those emotions in when they're let loose. And like the monster I am, I lure them away from you. I move them how I'd like to… I become their master and therefore I become yours. Umber had never known Torvi was a human until Belle's emotional spike and actions towards her after his bait of a threat was cast.

"Aklenroth, Azriel, Xenelith, O'ner… I have confirmed another human… blonde, a bit taller, mask is adorned with flowers and two horns. A gown of white… with shades of gray and black… she is coming my way… That is all for now."

Umber shifted his gaze away over to Azriel and Darius when he noticed Belladonna's companion coming his way. He didn't want to show that he had been keeping an eye on the two… confirmed… humans. And though he only looked to his pupil as a false distraction, he found himself captured by what he witnessed.

An eyebrow raised as he caught Azriel's reaction to Darius' approach. An emotion struck her that sent a shiver up his spine. His eyes locked on Darius who was just now taking her hand. He was puzzled and therefore he was also interested.

Hmmmm… This human… These humans… So much to offer… So much to take from them... This Darius
... Hmm… I believe I see why Aklenroth held onto this one. Jack is but a demon in human form. Able to kill with no remorse. A soldier that can slay many enemies. But Darius… His charisma can make him a... Umber's thoughts were interrupted by Torvi's sudden words. He faced her and gave her a friendly smile.

"It would be my pleasure to have you as my first partner. My acquaintances call me Caius." Umber took a bow before taking Torvi's hand. He led her into a slow gentle dance and seemed to be extremely light on his feet. Her being another human made him curious. He wanted to dig into that mind of hers. He wanted to know her fears, her sorrow, her pain. It took a moment, but Umber could feel what she was trying to keep down… It was as if she was attempting to keep her head above water. Treading water well. Yes, she was good at it. She had years of experience. But Umber had a feeling that he would only need to add a little more weight onto her heart to watch her drown in her dread.