#//beast aku says hi. he is but a shadow and will watch//

[sunderedscript]

@lunargifted ღ’ || akutagawa to ; whomever you choose !

-Atsushi-

Romantic attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Sexual attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Aesthetic attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Sensual attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme

"I don't know this tiger too well-" but he answered. "He seems more timid the one I know- Negative points for the hair-"

-Ranpo-

Romantic attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Sexual attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Aesthetic attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme Sensual attraction: none | very low | low | medium | high | very high | extreme

"...Ranpo-senpai seems the same as always..." Would Ranpo like a hammock made for a nap?

[alleycat-arcade]

Game Continue! The Seven Lords: Rashōmon

Anonymous asked: Oh my god, I LOVED how you wrote an MC with Atsushis ability and was wondering if you could do an Akutagawa like MC? Or maybe a Dazai MC as I've always wondered how they'd handle someone like either of them considering there depth as characters and they were my absolute favorites. Aku deserved better-

(I swear I'm just inflating my ego at this point with copy and pasting this prompt, but I wanna give context lololololol)

The Mafia's Hellhound. (Part 2) (Obey Me! Younger Brothers x Akutagawa Ryūnosuke(BSD)-like! Gn! Mc/Reader)

(Part 3 will contain the Now Dateables and Luke(Platonic)!)

Content Warnings: Since this character is from the same series as Atsushi Nakajima, I'm gonna put the same first bit of warning here. Bungou Stray Dogs is a series that contains characters based on real life authors, with each individual character having an ability based on a book by their namesake author. There is also a character in the series who is Sui///cidal and it is somewhat treated more light-hearted than how it is usually treated in media, and though it is explained later as to why I don't recommend anyone who is put off or upset by that type of content to watch it. Akutagawa is not this character, but this character does have a heavy impact on him. To those who are interested in the original concept as a whole, I'd definitely recommend watching up to Episode 3 first since that is the first appearance of Aku in the anime. This will have light spoilers for Seasons 1-3 as well throughout, so if you do end up really liking the anime and don't want the slightest bit of spoilers you should finish it first. The majority of spoilers lie in Aku's overall personality, but if you've seen Bungou Stray Dogs: Wan! it is not too dissimilar. There will be mentions of blood, injury, and general violence, as well as spoilers for Chapter 16-20 of Obey Me. Don't blame me, blame Belphie. And again, there will be angst. Not just because angst is my chicken soup for the soul, but that this character is very angsty.

(Takes place in between the Cannibalism Arc and Kamui Revelation Arc, which I assume Wan! is also set in. I went with this specific version of Aku because it's where the anime has left off at, and I personally believe anime watchers are more widespread than manga readers most of the time. I'll be doing my best not to accidentally water down his personality though, as even at that point in the story Aku still has quite the inferiority complex, violent tendencies, and other such issues.)

(As per usual, the intro is in the first part which you can read here!)

⚝──⭒─⭑─⭒──⚝

Satan:

How peculiar you are for a human... You say you know nothing of magic and yet you possess the ability to create what seems to be a shadow beast of dark matter. An Ability? Hmm... Humans have become quite the intriguing specimens nowadays, such unique adaptations certainly have peaked his interest. Fancy talk and wannabe novelist dialogue from Satan out of the way, the only real interest the Avatar of Wrath takes in you is your ability and its properties. Unless he's busy with his own academic pursuits or setting up pranks to pull on Lucifer, before you form a pact with him it may be in your best interest to avoid him or not be caught alone without one of the brothers you do have a pact with there. 'Lest you become a sort of test subject. Of course you're welcome to fight against this position to your heart's content, but the more you avoid it the more he becomes interested in studying you. Seeing as the demon brothers are much stronger than you and your ability, it leaves you with little choice other than stealthily avoiding certain confrontations or begrudgingly submitting and going along with their plans.

Momentarily he reminds you of your mentor in the days that he does catch you in a position to pull you away for an hour or two. Not exactly for the way he treats you, since he hadn't outright attacked or beat you verbally or physically, but rather in his demands to push your limits for his own interests. Satan is much more preoccupied in analyzing just how strong in offense and defense your Ability is, either not noticing or just not caring when choking coughs rack your lungs and scarlet droplets coat your palm. Prior to a bit before the formation of the pact between you two, the Avatar of Wrath cares very little for you or your wellbeing. So, should you live or die, it didn't use to matter to him. All he desired before then was to satisfy his curiosities.

And now... the same demon who could really care less about you was tightly wrapped around your little finger. Oh well, that just makes for all the more teasing that his brothers can inflict on him when they're feeling particularly rowdy. Worried about them overusing Rashōmon and wearing themselves out, Satan? Didn't you just say last week that you couldn't care less about them and how you would never be so deeply involved with a human like the rest of us? Haha gottem!... Oh shit run run run

Rather than being mostly interested by your ability now, Satan finds a new interest in your life in the Human World instead. Sure, some of the questions do revolve around what you know about other individuals you've worked with or fought against and their own abilities,, but most of them are about your own personal experiences. He listens intently when you're finally comfortable enough with to speak about your childhood with him and your own version of hell that came from growing up in the Slums and becoming a high ranking member of the Port Mafia. You're about halfway through your explanation of your old mentor's effects on you when you notice he's been writing down all of this, hey wait a minute. Why does this paper say "Information Regarding Trauma for Therapist".... where are you running off to now Satan, I thought we were going to talk?

At times Satan has tried to encourage you to branch out a bit more in your fashion style, cause you look a bit too much like Luci, but one comment on his own fashion sense and he's lost the argument. Once you did decide to humor him somewhat and tried on a pair of his clothes, but he didn't exactly get the point you were trying to make an let you keep that set of clothing. He has enough green sweaters, weird belts, black undershirts, and unique blue jackets to share at least one full set with you. At most you might just wear the sweater under your overcoat or the blue jacket over a dress shirt, but he feels a fuzzy feeling whenever he see's you out and about wearing a piece of his clothes. Should one of the brothers see you in his apparel, especially if you're wearing the jacket in the same way Satan does all the time, at the end of the day you'll likely end up with a whole new wardrobe formed completely out of borrowed clothing from the brothers. Thank goodness Rashōmon isn't confined solely to your jacket and can be created out of any clothing item you're wearing.

Something about you that Satan can't help but relate to is your short temper and somewhat hot-headed nature despite being such a serious person. In the beginning your short fits of rage and pessimistic ideals are just a minor inconvenience and annoyance, but now that he's found respect and care for you he has a strong desire to help you manage your issues, similar to how his brothers had helped him control his sin. Satan's help alone isn't truly enough to truly begin to heal the wounds that have been so deeply engraved into your very being, that's what the therapist is for, but you find yourself growing more and more calm as the days go by now. Though you can still get angry or aggressive at times, there is a noticeable reduction in your more violent tendencies. Mammon does get a little grouchy with Satan for this, but it's more in the tsundere way. He's just jealous since Mams had been the one gradually helping you with your anger issues, so don't take his complaints too seriously.

Out of all the brothers, Satan is your best bet in terms of being your tutor. It takes a bit for him to properly adjust the speed of his teaching methods, but once he's gotten into the swing of things it's only up from there. In the beginning he can get a little easily frustrated by your lack of understanding in some subjects, but over time he does grow more patient with you. While you may frustrate him sometimes, he ensures that he doesn't take it out on you and opts instead to take a calming walk before returning back to the subject when it becomes too much for the both of you. Satan can also sense when you're getting upset or angry over time through the pact, so he'll make sure that you get optimal breaks in general and while studying.

When his brothers had proposed their little scheme to get you and Lucifer to bond a little with each other, it was the same day that the two of you were going to go out for dinner and attend a late night show at the Devil Planetarium as a reward for scoring quite high on one of your worst subjects. He had begrudgingly accepted, since the plan would be done soon enough and give you enough time to do everything the two of you had set up prior. Yet, as he and his brothers stumbled upon your body in a crumpled heap at the bottom of the stairs, Satan couldn't help but wish that he had said "no". Though he wanted nothing more to cast a healing spell that would seal up your wounds, one light brush against your frigid skin told him you were beyond saving. A broiling rage slowly began to fill his body upon watching your arm that he had once carefully cradled in his palms drop limply to the floor, one of such a heated intensity that it was about to boil over right before your corpse had suddenly dissipated and a second version of yourself appeared at the top of the stairs. Angry tears stung the corners of his eyes until he wiped them away, a sudden sense of relief dulling the wrath the had infested his brain. Truthfully he had mostly tuned out your speech regarding Lilith, favoring to let you speak your peace and pulling you away for one of your calming walks together. In the garden behind HOL is where he lets his emotions finally come flooding out, hot tears flowing behind the arm he raised to hide them as he apologized for not being there to protect you from harm. He cannot help but meld into your arms when you lift his arm away from his face, nestling himself into the crook of your neck and holding onto you like your body would once again evaporate into thin air should he let go even a little. Your responding sobs only made him hold on tighter.

Though Satan still wants you to feel independent and like you're not being smothered, he's noticeably more touchy-feely than usual, even more so in the presence of Belphie. He loves the youngest of his twin brothers dearly, but he's still somewhat hesitant to leave you alone with him for very long. Satan also starts inviting you to tag along with him whenever he goes out a lot more than he used to, so the two of you can spend more time together in general. Going to go see a movie? Hey Mc, I heard you liked this one so I bought an extra ticket. Going to the library? Mc, there's a few books that I want to recommend to you, so you should tag along. Just going on a normal shopping trip? Mc, I need some help finding the best deals over at Devil's Value, care to tag along?

When it's finally time for you to head back to the Human World, Satan is very torn. As much as he'd like to join team "If Mc goes, so do I", he also recognizes and respects your own abilities. You may not be the strongest out of all the ability users out there, but from what he's seen you're one of the strongest people in the three realms even without factoring your ability. Still, the fact that there is ability users out there in the world that likely could harm you a thousand times more than you had been during the Attic incident set him on edge a little bit.

Asmodeus:

Wow! While Asmodeus had met quite a few magic users and cast a good bit of his own spells, never before had he seen someone create tendrils out of their own clothing that seemed like the could stretch and strike without too much limitations. He's a bit disappointed that he can't charm you into using them for his own ambitions and purposes, but that factor just makes you all the more of an enticing target. Honestly, Asmo would pursue you at least a bit more, if not for a good chunk of his other priorities taking up those spots of time. Brand deals, fan meet-ups, VIP parties; you name it and Asmo's got about 20 or so of each to attend to that month. You'll need a few additional tie ins before you have the Avatar of Lust wrapped around your finger, so for now the most he pursues you is a few flirtatious comments here and there. Perhaps a little bit of teasing touches on your arms or shoulders, unless you should shy away and scramble out of his touch.

Most of your interactions with Asmodeus prior to your pact together boil down to his brief and usually one-sided advances, as previously stated. Once or twice you've been involved in the same discussions with his brothers being the ones to pull you into the conversation somehow, and on the rare occasion he'll chat you up on his own whenever he just so happens to be seated beside you at the dinner table. Though you are aware of his exact intentions and the meanings behind a majority of his words, over time you grow used to it and brush it off fairly easily. Your usual tactic of scaring people off didn't even seem to work on him anyway, and there's only so many times you can listen to Asmo call your offers to curb-stomp him "cute" or "hot" before you just give up.

The pact between the two of you is finally sealed after you first wield Solomon's borrowed powers in a way far stronger than the wizard ever had before. Damn, this Human has a neat ability, is part of some strange ability user filled mafia, AND has incredibly strong untapped magic potential? Step aside Solomon, Asmodeus has a new favorite Master.

Asmodeus will be the second of his brothers to admit to you that he's more interested in you as a person rather than your ability (The title of first goes to Beel). While his brothers overtime outweigh their interest in you or their interest in what you could do, Asmodeus is far more intrigued on going straight for the heart of the operation and getting to know you inside and out(emotionally I mean, you horny fool). In the beginning he's somewhat subtle about asking about your past and your current living circumstances as a member of the mafia, but over time Asmo just starts outright asking you whatever comes to mind once he's gotten a feel for what topics to not bring up in order to avoid making you upset or uncomfortable. With how much effort he puts in to earn your trust overtime, if you haven't already opened up at least some of your heart to one of his brothers, it's likely that Asmodeus will end up being the first to chip away at your chilly exterior. He just goes out of his way to make himself warm and inviting whilst actively caring about your wellbeing, so it's honestly hard not to.

Back on the topic of the mafia, Asmodeus honestly has probably had one or two run in with your weaker, ability-less subordinates in the past. The name Port Mafia isn't something he recognizes off the top of his head, considering how many mafias there are or have been in the Human World on ports and other seaside locations, but eventually he does connect the dots after a few additional details. Most of his memories regarding your subordinates involve them either seeking out power so that their boss would give them a higher ranking position and acknowledge them, or just them looking for a way to wind down and come undone after all the stressful and strenuous duties they had been tasked with. He had once teasingly asked if he could meet this all powerful boss they had spoken of, but seeing your eyes begin to panickily shift and face drain of color was all it took to drop it. Asmo still might visit this "Mori" fellow in the future, not exactly for pleasant reasons but also nothing you'd need to worry about.

Sometimes Asmodeus will indulge himself just a little in his occasional curiosity of your ability, but he doesn't press you if you feel uncomfortable with any of his requests. Most of the time he asks to see what Rashōmon can do in the form of a trade. Like, if you show him how much piercing damage one of your tendrils can do, he'll show off any of his demonic powers that you happen to be interested in. You're aware that he'd likely still show you any of his abilities if you asked anyway, but you too enjoy indulging him in his curiosities from time-to-time. So far what he's found most interesting is just how malleable Rashōmon can be without causing any damage to your clothing, and that Rashōmon can be formed through any clothes on your body. (Does that mean you're defenseless when you're- Yes Asmo, and that is the reason why you have a hefty lock on your bedroom door.) Asmo also picks up very easily when you're starting to feel the negative effects of over using your ability, and is quick to stop you and whisk you away for a pampering session. No matter how many times you explain to him that you can handle a little bit of wear and tear or that it's just a little coughing fit, he'll always insist on not allowing you to overdo it. He may not be able to help you all that much with homework, but he'll be damned(again) if he doesn't get you to practice some self-care routines.

Initially he was a bit nervous to go along with Satan's idea to get you and Lucifer to hit it off, but went along with it anyway. He did trust the both of you quite a bit, and though some of his eldest brother's past interactions with you had made him a bit nervous, ultimately Asmo knew that Lucifer was slowly warming up to you. As it just so happened to turn out, he had no need to worry about Lucifer causing any harm to you, since the one who actually ended up killing you was his younger brother that had been trapped in the Attic up until now. Seeing as he had been near the back of the pack when the brothers had all come scrambling to find the reasoning behind your sudden disappearance and a random cacophony of noise, Asmodeus hadn't seen your body at first. Mammon and Satan had surrounded you before he could catch sight of your familiar pitch black coat-tails, and seeing Belphegor suddenly back in the Devildom was enough of a shock to draw his eyes away momentarily. Only after hearing your voice fall off his brothers' lips in such a sad way did he look back and finally see your corpse. Tears pricked the corners of his eyes as he looked into your own, and the way they seemed so glassy and dull nearly made him fall to his knees and sob. Calling out to his brothers for help only made it harder to hold back, seeing as you were already gone by the time they all had gotten there. None of the brothers were even quite sure how Asmo would've responded had it not been for your sudden revival, but if one were to ask him the only response he'd give would be that it wouldn't have been pretty.

After everything regarding the Attic incident has calmed down and he can comfortably hold you in his arms once more, he suddenly develops a rather strange and very noticeable habit. And what is this habit? Stealing your coat whenever he gets the chance too. Asmodeus doesn't do it maliciously, and most of the time he just does it so he can be comforted by your scent. It's simply an added bonus that the coat he took is the one you wear all the time and you'll more often than not come to him in order to retrieve it. Somedays you do just let him have it for an hour or so, but during the Devildom's winter you don't let him keep it at all, no matter how much he offers to warm you up instead.

Count another one into team "If Mc goes, I'm going". Asmo cares for you to the moon and so much further, and going back to the Human World at this point sounds like you'll be ending up with either a death or prison sentence(or both). He's aware how strong you are to have survived on your own this far, but the thought of you dying again and him not doing anything to stop it AGAIN haunts him. Plus, prison isn't good for his darling Mc's skin! If you do end up staying in the Devildom though, Asmo is overjoyed at the idea of you bringing your younger sister along. Especially after all the stories he's heard about her from you!

Beelzebub:

Oh. Hm. Anyway so when's... Yeah, Beel's not exactly impressed or really interested when he sees you come out of the portal and the fact that you surrounded yourself with this strange cage of tendrils still somehow manages to not really catch his eye. He's got a lot of other priorities Mc, he can't get hung up on why the human he's not allowed to eat has a weird superpower when Beelzebub is far more concerned on if Lucifer is going to punish him when they get home because he ate all the food in the fridge before they left for RAD that morning. The thing he finds most interesting is more so the fact that Mammon was your appointed caretaker, but that moment of curiosity is ever so fleeting. Beel really just wants the Student Council meeting to be over and done with, preferring not to stare at the empty chair beside him.

As expected, you don't really interact with Beelzebub all that much prior to the formation of the pact between the two of you. Unless Mammon or Leviathan need help with something or get him to help you with something, he doesn't find himself in your general area too often. Your somewhat cold and standoffish personality doesn't help on that front too much either, as even with a bit of warming up a-la the Great Mammon and Lord of Shadows, you're still not the easiest person to approach and strike up a conversation with. Occasionally he does ask the brothers you're close to about how they're getting along with you, but it's more for their sake than yours.

After the whole Custard fiasco takes place and you're forced to share a room with him, he starts taking at least a little bit more interest in you. You're still somewhat aloof, but you manage to make a decent amount of small talk with him. What catches his attention the most is when you bring up your younger sister, whom you care for dearly. The first night the topic is brought up the two of you almost stay up all night, trading stories about your respective siblings. You can't help but sympathize with Beel as well, since you know the inner turmoil you'd go through if something were to happen to your sister. Beelzebub can also sympathize with your own current plight of being trapped in the Devildom and away from your only other living family in the Human World. Honestly if he hadn't formed a pact with you after everything that happened in the Underground Tomb, he likely would've done it at some other point.

Unless you can or are willing to use your ability in a way that would help you in working out with him, Beel doesn't often ask you to bring out Rashōmon aside from helping him carry some stuff that didn't fit in his arms. He'd much rather help you train your physical body than watch you wear yourself down by using your ability anyway. Of course the two of you make a workout routine that suits you the best, but Beel can also recognize when you're pushing yourself too far and will stop you and probably just head home for the day after. Most likely you do end up using your ability for other purposes around him at some point, and he's quick to pick up on the effects that over usage has on your body just as fast as he notices you overextending yourself in the gym. Should you be a bit defiant with him and try to keep going despite your current state, Beel with simply pick you up and gently toss you over his shoulder. You're well aware that kicking or screaming won't get you out of this, so you just have to settle for being carried home like a sack of potatoes or at least until he puts you back down.

Bringing up the topic of the Port Mafia with Beel yields somewhat interesting results. He'd rather not hear about some of the more brutish methods they use or a good majority of the schemes they commit, but he is oddly intrigued by the sense of camaraderie that you seem to share with some of your superiors and the leaders of Black Lizard. It reminds him somewhat of the bond he shares with his Fangol teammates, minus the fact that his teammates aren't actively committing crimes as far as he's aware. Rather than subtly convincing you, Beel would much prefer to just outright tell you that he doesn't like that you're a part of such a dangerous side of humanity and urges you to stay in the Devildom with them after the Exchange Program is over. And once everything involving the Attic is over and done with, he's only further cemented in the idea of you making your stay in the Devildom permanent. But of course before we get there, we gotta talk about the Attic incident.

Similar to Asmodeus, he'd been at the rear end of the group when the brothers had been searching for you as well as the source of the noise. But unlike Asmo, Beelzebub's height advantage allowed him to not only see Belphegor somehow standing there cackling, as well as your crumpled body in Mammon's arms. As much as Beel had desperately been awaiting the day of his twin's return and wished to pull him into an embrace, it was incredibly clear that his oh-so beloved twin brother had literally just murdered you in cold blood. He didn't even need to ask the motive either, knowing full well just how much Belphegor had sworn vengeance against humanity ever since the Fall. Yet even so, Beel felt that you didn't deserve this, to take the full front of his brother's wrath just for your species. Unable to make a move towards or away from either of you, he remained rooted in place and just stared, occasionally glancing back at Lucifer for guidance. A sudden gnawing hunger fills his stomach and gradually builds up as the tension in the air grows thicker, the unnatural sort of hunger that only your living presence could truly fill. Thankfully it seemed at least one of his hungers would be solved that day, as you suddenly reappeared at the top of the stairs alive, but slightly bruised and batter. Alongside Lucifer, he held Belphie back to prevent him from attacking you again, letting you get out what needed to be said about Lilith that you had learned from the other timeline's version of Lucifer.

Beelzebub hangs back for quite a bit after your revival, allowing his brothers to hug and hold onto you as they tell you how happy they are you're alive before approaching you. Mostly he just wanted to allow his brothers to get your full attention before he asked for any, but a small part of him felt that he didn't deserve to embrace you in such a way after failing to protect you like he had promised. By the end of the night he still does embrace you, but not too long afterwards is when the guilt-ridden nightmares set in. Not only does he now dream of failing to protect Lilith, but your death now plagues his mind as well. After the first set of sleepless nights caused by these new nightmares, Beelzebub asks if he can sleep in your room for the night. Following then you often find yourself sleeping with Beel, as your presence seems to ward off nightmares like a sort of dreamcatcher.

Yet another member of team "If Mc goes, I go" for very obvious reasons. He's your sworn protector and if you're going back to a part of the Human World where you're incredibly likely to end up getting yourself killed, he's coming along with you. Also he really wants to meet your younger sister!

Belphegor:

Woe is him! Such a poor, unfortunate human locked up in the Attic of the treacherous demon brothers! What ever shall he do, trapped up here until his bones begin to crumble and skin turns to dust? Fellow human, won't you listen to his plea? Won't you help him escape the confines set in place by the wicked Avatar of Pride, Lucifer himself? "No"? What do you mean "no"?! Hey! HEY! Where the fuck are you going?! And did you just shrug and call him weak as you walked off???!!! Get back here!

Yeaahh, unfortunately for Belphie he's gonna have to wait until you get annoyed by his constant complaining in the dead of night or warm up to Beel and learn about him before you come back. At the point in time that you had made your way up the stairs to discover the mysterious voice that had been calling out to you, you certainly were not in a state that you would've jumped to save this random "human" from their imprisonment at the hands of Lucifer. Once you do finally return you're somewhat upset that Belphegor had attempted to lie to you about his origins, but you set aside those reservations in favor of focusing on how to get him back with Beelzebub. You couldn't deny that if you had been in his position, you might've lied in order to get back to your younger sister yourself.

Luckily for Belphie, besides his initial lie of being a human, you don't pick up on any of his other manipulated truths and forced words of kindness. Outside of the occasional update whenever you would get a new pact with one of the brothers or just going up and making sure he's still healthy, the two of you don't interact much during his stay in the Attic. Near the end of his time up there you did start coming up more frequently, under the guise of making sure he was eating and drinking properly. You may have tried to be as subtle as possible about your true motives, but he had begun to pick up on how much his brothers had worn down that harsh outer shell of yours that he'd seen in your first meeting. He'd even caught you smiling at one point when you had thought he wasn't looking, and act that made him scowl and growl to himself about after you had left for the night. He hated putting on that fake smiley attitude with you to gain your trust, but what he hated even more was that you yourself had begun to make him feel strangely warm and tingly inside. Just how was he supposed to go about his plans of killing you if he's getting distracted by these sudden complex feelings? With no clear alternative answer, Belphie settled for just pushing them deep down inside instead.

As with any other day sent in the Attic, he had been sleeping during his brothers' plans to get you and Lucifer to bond closer together. Most of the time he just slept until you rhythmically tapped on the bars of the door, so he didn't budge at all when the door had suddenly opened at your touch and you stepped inside. The feeling of someone's hand on his shoulder shaking him was enough to snap him awake, locking eyes with you as you now stood beside him in what had been his own personal prison for months now. Still going along with his plan, Belphegor is quick to express his deepest "graditudes" and holds his arms out to you for a hug. Hesitantly, you slowly ease into his embrace, making it clear that physical affections weren't you strong suit. With how much you had hesitated in the beginning, Belphie almost felt bad for what he was about to do to you. Almost. His hands suddenly wrapped around your throat, squeezing tighter and tighter with a gleeful expression on his face as you violently thrash and struggle. Rashōmon attacks blindly in his direction in an attempt to protect you, but the most you manage to get out of it is a momentary distraction to wriggle out of his grasp before he's attacking you once again. It is at this point Lilith's spirit whisks you away, trading you with the alternate timeline version of yourself and saying her peace to you.

The alternate timeline version of you puts up just as much of a fight as you would have, but ultimately falls by the hands of the Avatar of Sloth. Most of the damage you deal against Belphie is minor cuts and bruising, but that's still more then any other weaker creature that had gone against him had done. If he had to admit one thing, it would be that he was somewhat surprised by your tenacity. He would have enjoyed it far more if he could've beaten you into submission and watched you slowly pass on, but you continued to put up a fight until your dying breath. By the time his brothers had arrived onto the scene, your past self's body was already growing cold and your blood had begun to dye the white spots of the rug a deep red. The betrayal in the air was thick, yet he still cackled and mocked not only the human he had just killed but his brothers as well, for caring so much for such a weak being. He had honestly expected at least one of them to turn against him and go after him, but any of those thoughts were quickly silenced by the disappearance of your body and re-emergence at the top of the stairwell.

Coping with the fact that Lilith had been reincarnated as a human and lived a happy life with her lover was far easier the what he was now coming to terms with. Not only had he killed you for what he perceived as the wrong-doings of your entire species, but he had betrayed your trust that he had spent months building up. You still didn't even fully trust him at the time of his release either, too nervous to hug him right away when he'd offered. Somehow though, you eventually found it in yourself to slowly forgive him and begin building up trust in him again. It was a slow and steady process with a few set backs along the way, but as his pact mark now lay emblazed upon your skin Belphie could sleep comfortably on your lap.

Seeing as you didn't have much of a reason to show him your ability before, Belphie had only really seen you use it when you were trying to fight for your life against him. Since he'd rather not have that in mind when thinking about your ability, he started to occasionally request that you show it off for him whenever you feel like it. Mostly he enjoys just watching the tendrils perform mundane tasks like carrying groceries or folding laundry, but he'd be lying if he said he wasn't secretly scheming some pranks with Satan that you would be a big help in. But his favorite use of Rashōmon is when you pick him up after he's fallen asleep and carry him to a more comfortable location. Rashōmon's tendrils are somewhat prickly, but Belphie has thick enough clothing that if you grab onto the right parts you can use your ability to lift and pull him about with ease. Secretly, he's often awake whenever you do end up carrying him somewhere, but he just enjoys being along for the ride. The second you start coughing or showing any negative side effects though, he's strangely and suddenly woken up and is sleepily asking to be put down, which usually just ends with him pulling you down with him to the floor for an impromptu nap.

During his stay in the Attic Belphie had helped you a little with your subjects at RAD, but now that he's out and has a massive backlog or homework and assignments to get through you'll actually end up helping him more than he helps you. Belphegor isn't stupid by any means and does finish up everything within a month and a half, but it's nice to have someone to bounce ideas off of and study with. Once he's all caught up though, he's more than happy to help you with your own classwork, even if he does tease you every time you ask for his help.

Yeah so, team "If Mc goes, I go" is honestly all of the brothers beside Satan and Lucifer. It's not that they aren't confident in your own abilities, it's just that they're all incredibly aware just how fragile even the strongest of humans are. And no one is more aware of that than Belphegor. Not to mention they're quite literally sending you back to hell on earth, where your superiors are very likely to be pissed off about your sudden and very long absence. Plus, either way he'll get to spend more time with you and probably meet your younger sister. Hopefully someone steps in for or against you Mc, otherwise you better hope that your salary can account for all of these brand new roommates you and Gin just received.

⚝──⭒─⭑─⭒──⚝

(*drinks my "I love making Chapter 16 more angsty and emotional than it canonically is" juice* Drifted a bit outta canon for this one, as a treat. Also if y'all have noticed, I did have to nerf Aku!Mc a bit so the demon brothers are an actual threat. I don't believe Mc would be too scared of the demon brothers if they didn't at least have some resistance to Rashomon's incredible consumption of matter and space.

After all of that mixed angst and gen hc's, here's a cute gif of Aku from BSD: Wan! I love every time he just looks like (◎ ◎) I hope y'all look forward to the next part with the Now Dateables+Luke!)

[piddies0709]

Theories/Possible Predictions on the Final Samurai Jack

Assssshhhiiiii-t!!! Too subtle? Well I guess should first say that I kinda was expecting things to  take a turn for the worst. For anyone still bitching about last weeks episode, I'll say this, it may not have been the season's strongest episode, but it still had a point to it's existence. It was meant to be a light-hearted calm before the storm, that would not only establish the turning point of Jack and Ashi's relationship, but also give them a little bit of happiness as well before everything goes to shit! God, I can't believe there are people still complaining about that episode... You've made you're point, can we just move on?

So before I get into what I think might happen in the next and final episode, let me first list a few favorite moments and what I think of the whole guardian situation.

List of some favorite moments:

-Just opens up with them still kissing. Were they doing that all night?

-Ashi finally finds some real clothes.

-Jack taking a shower. Now I know where the cake idea came from, but still, WHY?

-Ashi seeing Jack taking a shower. Come on, girl. You know he's hot.

-See he still has the mane!

-The reverse of Jack's inner mental self. Yeah, Jack's really stuck between a rock and a hard place at this point.

-Jack and Ashi catching the same thing for dinner.

-Awkward chewing scene.

-Jack telling Ashi of his home.

-Ashi asking about a girl. Did Jack forget about that girl in the field or was that just a one time thing?

-EIGHT?! He was only eight years old when it happened?! Damn...(I was eight when I started watching this show...)

-Aku dancing. Seriously, there was a cult around this guy?!

-The Guardian and the time portal being destroyed. More on that later...

-Jack not wanting anything awful to happen to Ashi.

-Jack holding Ashi's hands.

-Aku has come to FUCK everything up.

-Scaramouche is dead?! Good...

-OH SHIT! Aku really IS her Dad!!!

-So thats how it happened? Oookay...

-Why would you drink that shit? Oh wait, this is the High Priestess we're talking about.

-Oh no... here it comes.

-Most heart breaking sword fight ever.

-Aku, your an asshole...

-Oh crap...Thats gonna give me nightmares... Also, doesn't she look like the Beast from Over The Garden Wall? Maybe it's the eyes.

-Well Fuck... Though, I kinda like of the last image. It echos the art work from the original opening.

Okay so, about the guardian. I had feeling he wasn't going to be around anymore. Aku said it himself that he eradicated all the time portals and the guardian's was no acceptation. As to how, you can make you're own conclusion. I mean this is Aku after all. I'm pretty sure he killed the guardian the same way he killed the Scotsman. So that could explain why we only see his glasses. He must have been vaporized. But no matter what, the time port is gone. I know there's been rumors I keep hearing about  Jack having a rematch fight with the guardian and using the portal to instead save Ashi from Aku killing her, but after this episode, I'm almost certain that won't happen. *phew* Still, no amount of time travel would ever have saved her from what shes has become. And now that leads me to some theories I have for what might happen in the last episode. Keep in mind I don't expect all if any of these predictions to be true. These are only things that could happen, but might not. With that said, lets get started.

Theories/Predictions:

So, one of the things the of mentioned rumor talked about was Aku killing Ashi (at least in a literal sense) and after witnessing episode nine. I think it's safe to say I can toss that out one the window. Aku, would have no reason to kill Ashi, now that he knows she carries the essence of him within her. He can pretty much use her as his puppet, to make her do what ever he wants. Sure, Aku's had many evil minions, bounty hunters and robots in the past that have done a lot of the dirty work for him, but no matter how loyal they may have been, none of them could ever really get the job to done or they may have a change of heart at last minuet. Either way, this is the first time Aku's ever had someone he can fully control and bend to his will. It only make sense why he'd keep her around.

Honestly if Ashi is to die, which judging by this whole situation is more than likely the case, it would be by the sword. Here, let me explain. You know remember seeing that image of behind the scenes where, we see the voice actors in the recording both and theres a screen with some of the story bored above? In one frame it has Aku encouraging Ashi to do something and other with Jack begging her not to while he hangs by is wrists, sort of like his Dad in the Birth Of Evil episode. Phil even has his arms raised to fit the inflection of that position.

Anyway, what might end up happening it, Aku has Jack held a prisoner. Word of this gets out, prompting the Scotsman and his daughters, (who must have an army set up by now) to go forth and attack Aku's lair. Meanwhile Aku probably has Jack's sword out of reach, most likely he's not going to destroy it just yet. Rather than killing Jack right away, he instead tortures him. After all, Jack has been a thorn in his side for so long that he wouldn't simply just kill Jack right then and it end there. No, that would be too merciful of him. Of course he would want to kill Jack slowly and painfully. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if he got Ashi in on it as well. Then what I think might happen next is the rebellion formed by the Scotsman of all the people that Jack has helped over the years comes to battle to try and save Jack. This annoys Aku, in, which he proceeds to head out and attack the rebels yet again , with Ashi meant to stand guard. With Aku out of the way, Jack tries to reach trough to her yet again. Much like how she did to save him from committing suicide. Now here's where that romantic subplot plays into, Ashi may have Aku's essence with in her, but she's not twisted like her parents. She does feel love, she does know right from wrong and it's her love for Jack that helps her fight against the demon form she's trapped in, at least long enough to free Jack. Then either she uses the sword to kill herself or she is force in to fighting Jack and gets killed in the process either by him unintentionally or she makes him stab her. (Which makes the cute Rams look more like for shadowing) Now whether she stays dead is up for debate. Who knows, they could pull a deus ex machina on us. But more on that later. So if she does get stabbed by the sword, that could be what kills the essence inside of her, thus changing her back. While dying Jack holds her and she tells him how she feels before passing away.

This sends Jack over the edge, as not only has another innocent life been taken because of Aku and him being powerless to stop it, but also the fact that it was someone he's grown so close to. Someone who he cared for dearly. Now just another memory. Finally, he's had enough, no longer caring whether he goes back to the past or not. Aku must die! Back at the fight, all hope seems lost for the rebels has Aku appears to be winning, but that when Jack shows up to kill the demon once and for all. For many years Jack as had to fight Aku alone, but now with his allies, they are able to work together and help Jack deliver the final blow. With Aku defeated, everyone is ready to celebrate their victory. Not Jack however. Instead he heads back in Aku's lair while everyone watches in confusion. A few moments later Jack comes back out with Ashi cradled in his arms. Clearly grief stricken. Now this is where I think the Scotsman might play a roll in this. Genndy did say he'd come back in a big way. In edition to being the one that assembled the rebellion in the first place, who's to say he wouldn't also save Ashi's life as well. After all he's a ghost now and with Aku dead, he doesn't really have any reason stay on earth anymore. Maybe he can use some of that Celtic magic to give Ashi life again. Now you maybe asking why I think this. Why would Scotsman save the life of someone he'd never met. Well, for Jack of course. He was always such a good friend to Jack, plus Jack did help him save the love of his life. So this could be his repayment. The world is saved and future looks bright. Despite still being stuck in the future, after seeing all those he's helped and finding someone he cares about deeply, Jack comes to a realization; that you can't really change the past, but you can work to build a better future.

So there you have it. Those are my theories on this last episode. Now all of this is just speculation. I don't expected all, if not any of these things to be true. Who knows what will really happen until Saturday night comes around, but if some of my theories turn out correct, I will be surprised to say the least. Still there so many ways that this series could end. So if you have your own ideas as to what the outcome might be, please let me know.

[ramblesandmumblesofanerd]

Weekly Rambles: Samurai Jack Season 5 Episode 3

Previously, on Samurai Jack…

The Shogun of Sorrow, Aku grows more worried with each passing day about his foe, unaware that the sword that can destroy him has left the samurai’s hands and had not been seen since. Meanwhile, Jack encounters the Daughters of Aku for the first time and is completely out matched by their speed and skill. He is tormented by his inner self, who whispers thoughts of suicide into his head. Regardless, Jack forges ahead into a temple to seek refuge until he is hunted down by the assassins. The samurai fights hard until he kills one of the assassins, only to be horrified to learn that they are not the usual robots normally sent to kill him. Jack has taken his first human life. Time is short, however, as Jack is forced to make an explosive retreat, leaving him unconscious and bleeding in a river, floating away in the stream.

And now, the next episode…

“XCIV” begins exactly where we left off, with Jack drifting down the river after his battle. This scene has some great animation, especially with the camera trying to track Jack’s body as it narrowly avoids rocks and other obstacles while careening down the river. It's also somewhat quiet for a while until Jack’s delirium catches up with him in the form of a frog warning Jack that the assassins are coming. Jack grips onto a log and swims for his life, trying to ignore the pain from his wound.

The samurai eventually finds land where he begins to stumble around in the woods, leaving a trail of blood wherever he goes. His trail is sporadic, as he is still being haunted by his visions, specifically the green warrior on horseback, who actually moves this time rather than remain static. He and his horse traverse the woods while Jack tries his best to avoid them. Was my previous theory about the warrior correct? Are they truly Jack’s version of the Grim Reaper, or do they personify something more emotional, like his grief? It’s hard to say, but I believe the answer will come near the finale, after they have established their presence more.

In any case, in order to hide from the hallucination of the warrior as well as the assassins, Jack takes refuge in a cave where he finally addresses his wound from the previous episode. The dagger is still lodged in his abdomen. Jack grips onto the hilt, slowly pulling it out as blood starts to seep out from beneath the metal. Jack tries his best to hold in his screams of pain, but not even he can endure so much for so long. The dagger comes out and Jack yells in agony as the blood pours out, then falls unconscious from his pain.

Jack's torture is not over yet, as his hallucinations have become more distorted due to recent events. The inner Jack from before appears once again, this time with a strange, elongated form. He rhetorically questions why Jack is writhing on the floor when he has suffered far greater wounds in the past.

“This is not about the stab wound”, he proclaims, “it’s about the girl we killed. Thousands of broken robots under our belt… that was our first human life, wasn't it?”

The samurai doesn't respond, too weak from the pain. The inner Jack continues by wondering what happens when the other assassins come looking for their target. Jack would surely perish in his current state.

“Maybe...that's what you want,” the inner Jack says with a malicious, toothy grin.

Jack weakly protests, only to fall unconscious once more.

Time passes as Jack tries to recuperate in the cave, his fear and hatred consuming him as he stares at the entryway with the assassin’s dagger in hand. He hears something approaching and prepares to defend himself...only to see an unexpected sight. A wolf, covered in blood like the samurai, stands in the light. It is the white wolf from the previous episode, alive but wounded. The animal does not attack or even threaten Jack, they simply stare at one another, surprised to see someone who has suffered a similar experience. The two form a bond over time, with the wolf helping Jack in his recovery. The beast brings food for Jack to cook, warms him in the cold nights and even licks the warriors wounds. Jack tries to repay his new animal friend by washing their wounds, but the wolf protests and resumes licking them just like Jack’s. Eventually, the two have healed and look out beyond the cave. The wolf, having done what they came to do, leaves Jack as silently as he came, while the Samurai reflects on his past.

Jack remembers a day in his youth when he saw his father kill. For those who do not recall, Jack was the son of an emperor, and emperors are always the target of bandits. On this particular day, a group of bandits attack and kill everyone around the emperor's caravan, leaving him, his wife and his son Jack alive. They demand that he steps out from his carriage so he may face his death. The emperor complies, silently stepping out as Jack and his mother listen to what happens next.

“It is clear that your choices have brought you here,” the emperor states, “as have mine. I give you a new choice: leave now, and live. Or stay, and face your destiny.”

The bandits scoff at the emperor...right before he slaughters them right before his son’s eyes, which are soon stained by a spray of blood.

After the emperor and his family return to the palace, he wipes the blood away from his scared son’s face. There is an uncomfortable vibe in the air, as the emperor realizes his son is shaken by the encounter, as the poor boy cannot stop staring at the bloodstained robes and sword. Jack's father softly grips his son by the shoulders and tells him that the choices one makes define who that person will become.

“You cannot outrun yourself.”

Cut back to the present, where Jack stands firm with a familiar, battle hardened look upon his face. Samurai Jack has returned.

Meanwhile, the assassins have escaped the destroyed ruins, dragging the body of their dead sister. They circle around their dead sister, glaring down at her before uttering three cold, simple words.

“Death is failure.”

They leave the corpse behind, shedding not a single tear, resuming their hunt for the samurai. They follow the trail of dried blood Jack has left down the river, their actions completely synchronized, until they inevitably arrive at the same shoreline he did. They hide amongst the trees, scanning for signs of Jack until they come across something they see as strange and unnatural: a doe. The deer is grazing on a patch of grass, unaware of her audience. The Daughters stare at her, trying to determine what she is until a buck suddenly appears behind her. They mistake his antlers as a sign that the animal is of Aku’s influence, coming to devour the weaker animal before him. They are surprised and slightly disturbed to discover that the two deer are mates as they nuzzle their noses in affection. They frighten the deer away in a rare moment of openness and resume the hunt for their enemy by following the ever present trail of blood.

As they follow the trail, they hear a voice echoing throughout the forest, addressing them from the shadows. It is Samurai Jack, using the very same speech his father gave the bandits years ago. He gives the daughters one chance to retreat, or die. History repeats itself, however, as the Daughters, particularly Ashi, stand their ground. Snow and fog soon falls around them, blanketing the land in pure white against their black attire. Then, suddenly, a spear launches from the ground, impaling one of the Daughters. The others attack the source, but Jack is gone. From behind a camouflaged tree, another spear flies at the assassins, killing another instantly. Jack retreats into the snow, a third spear in his hand, as the remaining Daughters take chase. They find Jack perched on a fallen tree, ready for them. Jack gives them the fight they have been looking for, using all manner of moves to both defend himself and attack his foes. He goes so far as to once again turn their weapons against them, as he snatchs a blade and kills another of the sisters. Three now remain.

The remaining Daughters of Aku literally combine their attacks, showing just how synchronized they truly are. They lash at Jack as a singular unit, slashing at Jack with chains, blades and a spear. The samurai suffers injury, but the cuts are minor. He finds a way to desynchronize them, though at the same time his form starts to waver. He swings wildly at the sisters, panting heavily while they remain silent. It appears that while Jack can still handle himself well in battle, he has gotten somewhat rusty from the lack of a true battle like this. Regardless, the samurai doesn’t give up, as he leads the sisters to a fallen tree suspended over a cliff to finish them off. One by one, Jack counters their attacks with his bare hands and sends them spiraling off the cliff into the trees below. Even Ashi, who puts up an impressive effort, succumbs to the same fate, though not before she proclaims that the samurai scum will die, one way or another. Jack does not care in the slightest about her empty words, as she plummets down into the snow, screaming her last threat. Jack has little time to relish in this bittersweet victory, as the tree finally gives way and snaps, leaving Jack to join the Daughters of Aku below.

Just like the previous episodes, this was an absolute treat to watch for multiple reasons. First and foremost, this was the episode that had Samurai Jack return to his senses and become the warrior we all remember him as. While he may not be completely recovered from his grief and depression, he certainly has his fighting spirit back. Also, we were treated to a brief moment of character development for the Daughters of Aku...right before their were brutally killed in battle. While some can see them misunderstanding nature as something cute, others can view it as a very sad reminder that the Daughters never saw the world prior to their mission. They were merely raised to kill, nothing more or less, thus they do not have an appreciation or understanding of anything beyond their training. It is an example of the classic debate of Nature vs. Nurture: do people learn certain traits through genetics or through mentoring? This show would argue that the mother of the assassins clearly put her children in an environment that made them cold hearted assassins rather than the curious, wide-eyed children Ashi once was in her youth. Regardless, I loved every moment of this episode, and I am looking forward to the next one as per usual.

But in the meantime, never stop rambling, TM

[remotecontrolchuck]

Toonami Night Review: Zombies, Explosions, and Nostalgia Oh My!

Well tonight was fantastic! Got to see another fantastic episode of Samurai Jack, watched the first episode of a new horror anime I’ve never seen before, and had some fun going down a memory lane filled with retro bumpers and an old Moltar review on one of my favorite video games. We also got to some more bizarre antics on Sand Whale and Me, as well as a sneak peek at the new Ghost in the Shell movie. Overall, I had a really great time!

By the way, I see this on the tag from time to time, but I’ve never really asked about because I feel like I’ll sound dumb for doing so. What does “Hot Pocket Pirate” mean? Does it mean everyone that liveblogs Toonami on Tumblr and says “Ding” when the ad pops up, or a specific group users that’s been liveblogging since the block’s revival in 2012? I might just be over thinking it, but I thought I’d ask since I didn’t know if I’m part of the “Hot Pocket Pirates” or not, or that I’d be rude for saying so if I wasn’t.

Anyway, enough about that, onto the recap before I fall asleep!

Samurai Jack: Having survived his encounter with the Daughters of Aku, Samurai Jack finds a cave to hide himself and treat his wounds. As he recovers, he has another hallucination, which has become even more frightening since last time. 

Jack also gets a companion while he was healing, and it was the wolf from the last episode, apparently having survived his fight with those mutant cat things and is now trying to recover as well. After the two recovered, the wolf then leaves Jack before departing further into the woods, and the samurai prepares himself to take on his assassins. 

The assassins eventually find him, and Jack soon gives them a chance to surrender, but he ends up killing every one them anyway. Unfortunately after defeating the last one, Ashi, Jack suddenly falls off the mountain as well, ending the episode with another cliffhanger again.

Dragon Ball Super: the God battle continues, with the two possibly ending the universe as we speak. So with that said, follow the old Supreme Kai’s lead, and read some dirty magazines before going out with a bang!

DBZ Kai: Tournament begins, and Krillin sends a really big fat guy flying out of the ring with relative ease. Meanwhile, strange short elf guy Shin scares the crap out of Piccolo with that creepy stare of his.

Next time, Videl goes against some angry roid guy name Spopovich, and from what I see from the other’s posts, this isn’t going to end well.

JJBA: To put it short, it was twist after twist after twist between JoJo and Wamuu in their fight to the death, with the latter about something dangerous that will probably get everyone killed.

Tokyo Ghoul: We are introduced to our protagonist Ken Kaneki who, after a date gone to hell, ends up becoming part ghoul, which is a mutated human that can only eat flesh. Now he’s constantly fighting with himself, with one half of himself trying to retain his humanity, while the other really wants to eat some human flesh. 

He later encounters other ghouls as well. Some are nice, some are not. And then there’s one that gets annoyed by him freaking out, and so she shoves some human flesh into his mouth, which will no doubt get him completely addicted to eating humans.

So far the premise looks pretty interesting, and I look forward to seeing the plot unfolds in next couple of episodes. By then I’ll see whether or not I’ll end up liking this series and adding to my favorites.

Hunter x Hunter: Uvogin annihilates the hell of the Shadow Beasts, but the Phantom Troupe member gets captured by Kurapika, who is very much determine to get revenge on every last Phantom Troupe member.

Gundam Unicorn: More mobile suits battles, philosophical discussion, and bizarre newtype stuff. After getting into a brief fight with Suberoa, Banagher tries to convince Loni not to give into her hatred but is unable to, leaving Riddhe to finish her off. Afterwards, before Riddhe can force Banagher to get out of the Gundam, they’re sending ambushed by the arrival of another Unicorn Gundam, but in black and gold.

Naruto Shippuden: We end the filler with Naruto defeating the big bad, Utakata saving Hotaru and everyone else, with the couple soon heading off to a happy ending. Unfortunately that never happens, as Hotaru ends up without a master again, as Utakata is captured by Pain and the Akatsuki. Bummer.

Ghost in the Shell: Section 9 investigates organs being stolen, and soon apprehend three rich medical students behind it, but not before scaring and humiliating them a little.

That’s it for the review, I’m going to bed. I look forward to next week’s exciting run of Toonami, but until then, goodnight and Stay Gold!

[isakthedragon]

A Dragon Sized Adventure Chapter 26

Chapter 26: In the Beginning...

*Crash and the others are teleported into the lowest section of the Death Head, right inside the Prehistoric Terrarium. These Terrariums have the ecosystem of the time and place the Time Twister connects to in them. Within those Terrariums are buttons, and those buttons connect to the Time Twister, creating an orb in time and space that warps anyone who enters to that specific point that is contained within it...*

Sonic takes a look at their surroundings. "What kind of place is this? Even Eggman has never made something as big as this..."

*Crash whispers something in Crunch's ear.*

Crunch: "Well, this is the second time Cortex and the others have made something like this, which is called a Time Twister. It basically lets anyone go to any time period they wish. Cortex mostly uses it to steal crystals from any time."

Tails: "Wow! A real, working time machine!"

Crunch: "Yep, but the old one was, and this new one probably is too, made by Dr. Nefarious Tropy. He likes making time paradoxes, yet he wants to keep order too. I bet he'll explain himself more once we find him."

Spyro: "So, then, why can't we go find them now?"

*Espio, Charmy, and Vector had left to scout the area and have just returned.*

Charmy: ♪ "Cause it be no use!" ♫ *Silver can be heard face-palming.*

Knuckles: "Why not? It shouldn't be too hard to punch down a door."

Espio: "Well, they don't use doors. They use force fields of electricity."

OMEGA: "THEN I WILL BLAST THE GENERATORS!"

Rouge: "Omega, must that be your answer to everything? I'm pretty sure that they have prevented that too."

Vector: "There does seem to be some way though. It says we need to collect 5 purple crystals in order to drop the field."

Shadow: "That sounds like an absurd requirement."

Crunch: "Not for Cortex, it isn't. I bet he wants us to collect them for him."

Crash: "He thinks he can fool us!" *He immediately covers his mouth.*

Silver: "Then why should we collect them? They seem pretty safe wherever they are."

Crunch: "Well, Aku-Aku, he's our mask deity who has now been taken by Cortex too, has always had us collect them because they have immense energy that can be used for anything."

Crash: "He trusts us, and we should help him!" *Again, he quickly covers his mouth.*

*Amy, Cream and Big had also left to search the area.*

Cream walks up to Crunch. "Um, Mr. Bandicoot?"

Crunch: "Oh! We never told you our names. I'm Crunch, and this is our little bro Crash."

Crash walks up to Cream. "Hello!"

Cream: "Hello, Mr. Crash."

Crunch: "We also have a sister, but Dr. N. Gin, Cortex's right hand man, has taken her. But we bet she's doing a good job fending herself."

Sonic: "We'll keep a watch for your sister." *He smirks.*

Cream: "Mr. Crunch? What's with all the buttons we found in here?"

Big: "Yeah. We found 5 of them. I guess they must have something to do with what we are in?"

Crunch: "Yep. They fire up the Time Twister that's in here and opens a way to a crystal. Come on, we will show you. Now where's the 1st button?"

Amy: "This way." *Team Rose leads them over to the first button.* "Here it is."

Crunch steps on the button and an orb appears.

Tails: "Wow!"

Crunch: "Indeed. Well, let's get started on collecting those crystals. Oh, and if you guys see gems around, can you collect them?"

Spyro: "Gems? Like these?" *He pulls out a gem from his world.*

Crunch: "No. They're bigger and most are a white color. Cortex can use those to harness planetary energy as well, so we should make sure to be the ones to grab them first. They may be laying around, but they mostly come from destroying crates."

*Crash shows one.*

Cynder: "Why?"

Crash decides to answer by saying "They're filled with Wampa Fruit!" *He breaks the crate, revealing some of those apple-like fruits. He immediately eats them.*

Crunch: "We have to eat, you know."

Cynder: "Indeed."

Crunch: "But be careful with TNT Crates and Nitro Crates. They're really explosive."

*Sonic is now impatient and tapping his foot. He can't wait any longer.* "Alright, enough with the explanations, let's go!"

*Crash blabbers in agreement.*

(Whenever you are ready, press those buttons and jump in the Warp Orb. Note that you can take anyone into these. I'll note if there is anyone who needs to enter specifically. For the most part though, Crash or Crunch (And later Coco) will at least be one of the partners.)

-----

Level 1: A Prehistoric Walk

*Cortex, Uka-Uka and Eggman appears as a hologram as they go though the wormhole.* (This happens off and on.)

Cortex: "Crash, why must you always be a thorn in my side?"

Eggman: "Same for you, Sonic, why must you ruin our plans?!"

Cortex: "Well, we decided on a team up."

Eggman: "Let's see you ruin our plan now!"

Uka-Uka: "WE WILL DESTROY YOU!" *They disappear.*

Crates: 78

Time Trial

Sapphire: 1:45.00

Gold: 1:30.00

Platinum: 1:15.00

(Just to note, those crates and Time Trail times are made up to make it sound more like a Crash Bandicoot game. If this were real, those numbers would be different.)

Magmadons To Save: 5

Helping Partner: Sonic

Badniks: Rexon: Robo dinos? What will they think of next? A park to house them? Spiker: It's a spike carrying robot, what more do you want? Sol: Spinning wheels of FIRE! Wave Lab Assistant Pawns: They hide in the swamps, waiting to pounce on Crash and the gang. Thanks to getting a Pawn head, they should be easier to identify thanks to their eyes.

Beasts: Bandifish: Crash's prehistoric ancestor. *SPIN SPIN*

Mutants: Magmadons: Turtle + lava rock hybrids that love to bath in lava.

(Starts headbanging!)

Welcome to the Prehistoric Earth. I hope you don't mind getting your feet wet, since there are feet high swamps everywhere. This first level is here to introduce you to Crash's moves. from his spins (and his Death Tornado), to his Super Belly Flop, his Double Jumping, and even his Wampazooka (with special appearance of Crash's tiptoe and dash power). And you also get an introductions to all the crates you'll see. All the basics in a lovely tutorial that is just a regular level. All the Crystals hide in plain sight around 3/4 in of every level (so I won't keep mentioning it). (And unless stated of a second gem around, there is usually only one for breaking all the crates.)

*About midway through the level, Sonic and Crash encounter and 3 Aku-Aku crates on top of each other.*

Crash whimpers.

Sonic: "What's wrong?"

Crash: "No Aku-Aku to help me!"

Sonic: "Is that bad?"

*Crash whispers in Sonic's ear, telling him that Aku-Aku usually protects him from damage, with invincibility with 3.*

Sonic: "So he protects you. Well, you do look pretty trustworthy. Want these?" *He shows Crash the Chaos Emeralds.*

Crash: "Oh?"

Sonic: "Take them, they'll keep you safe if you collect enough rings."

Crash: "These things?" *He shows the rings he found so far in the level.*

Sonic: "Yep. Here, let me show you." *He takes the rings and uses them to go Super Sonic. A wall of 16 Nitros are ahead and Sonic runs into them and the nearby TNT, making them blow up and leaving Sonic unhurt. He returns to his regular state.*

Crash: "Hooray!" *He smiles his toothy grin.*

Sonic: "Here, take them, Crash."

*Crash takes them and easily goes Super, gaining a yellow aura. His hair turns yellow as well and regains his old mohawk.* "Yahoo!" *He runs off, letting the player finish the level in Crash's super state.*

Achievement Unlocked: Getting Your Shoes Wet

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Level 2: Wading Dino

Crates:  95

Time Trial

Sapphire: 1:50.00

Gold: 1:35.00

Platinum: 1:20.00

Magmadons To Save: 5

Helping Partner: Spyro

Badniks: (Except for any new ones I note, all badniks appear in all levels of a Terrarium) Dino Riding Lab Assistant Pawns: They have tamed some baby T-Rexes of their own, albeit the dinos are metal too. Charging the dino and smashing the Pawn will defeat them.

The main feature for this level is that Crash is able to ride his old Baby T-Rex from Warped. He grants Crash an extra hit point and lets Crash jump even higher (Spyro flies for any jumps that are too high.). This level is another walk through the swamps. Usually around the halfway point of the levels, there is a platform that you can jump on to go to a BONUS area, filled with crates and Wampa fruit. It's a great way to earn lives, too.

Achievement Unlocked: Baby T, The Cutest Dino Around

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Level 3: Magmadon Magma Runs

*Dingodile appears.*

Dingodile: "G'day, mates. Dingodile's the name. Uka-Uka, Cortex, and Eggman want me to collect those Crystals you're collecting from the Prehistoric. You better give me the goods, and shove off, before I roast yas!"

Crates:  60

Time Trial

Sapphire: 1:40.00

Gold: 1:30.00

Platinum: 1:20.00

Magmadons To Save: 5

Helping Partner: Knuckles

This level has Crash and Knuckles riding Magmadons across lave floes. These mutants that are scattered across the levels and Terrariums are working for Cortex, but if you can break their headsets, they are more than willing to help you. They look big and strong, and they are, but they are big softies that are quite gentle. Cortex's Evolvo-ray is what has made them susceptible to the noise generated by the headsets, but Crash and the others slapping some sense in them helps save them. These mutants can take much more of a beating, having their own health bar and can be easily healed from the Wampa fruit laying around.

Knuckles noticed one of the Magmadons. "Hey, Crash? I know that they do have those headsets that are meant to make them crazy, but why are we helping them? Aren't they dangerous?"

Crash: "Mutants aren't mean! Nor dangerous" *Crash sounds like he is a little offended at the question.*

Knuckles realizes his mistake. "Wait, you're a mutant yourself? I'm sorry, I didn't know..." *Knuckles trails off, a little angry that he made such a mistake.*

Crash shows a smile. "It's okay! You didn't know." *He whispers something to Knuckles.*

Knuckles : "Oh! They are only dangerous and evil thanks to Cortex's evolving."

Crash: "Uh-huh! I help them so they can live their own lives!"

Knuckles: "Maybe you should tell the others that too so they can help."

Crash: "I will!"

Achievement Unlocked: Magmadons, The Hottest Turtles Around

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Level 4: Volcanic Vents

Crates:  103

Time Trial

Sapphire: 2:00.00

Gold: 1:55.00

Platinum: 1:50.00

Magmadons To Save: 5

Helping Partner: Tails

Badniks: Fireworm: So fire, much worm.

Well, I got some good news and bad news. Good news is that there is no more swamps underneath you, the bad news is that now you have to climb a volcano. At least it is somewhat dormant, so this no raining of rocks from the sky, but there are some lava flows here and there. And here is where you can get your first taste of a Death Route (Complete with proper music). There's a checkpoint right next to it so you can try as much as your lives allow. Death Routes are usually harder sections of a level, with more traps and Nitros and danger. But this one shouldn't be too hard. It will take you through the center of the volcano, with platforms strewn all across. Should you be able to avoid getting singed, another gem and a quick walk to the exit is your reward. Or you could kill yourself after collecting the gem and continue normally around the volcano. Your choice. Either way, your exit is on the other side of the volcano.

Achievement Unlocked: Feeling the Earth Move

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Level 5: Pterodactyl Pterror

Crates:  93

Time Trial

Sapphire: 1:40.00

Gold: 1:30.00

Platinum: 1:20.00

Magmadons To Save: 5

Helping Partner: Cynder

Beasts: Pterodactyls: *SCREECH!*

No prehistoric visit would be complete without a visit of flying dinos, aka Pterodactyls. You're back in the swamps again, but it isn't all that bad. Those birds can easily be dealt with by spinning them away. Nothing much to note here, just avoid being hurt by the beasts and badniks and you'll be fine.

Achievement Unlocked: Not Altering the Course of History

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*After returning to the Space Egg / Death Head, the buttons disappear and Crash and the others are lead to the center of the Terrarium. There, they find Dingodile, readying his flamethrower.*  

Boss: Dingodile

"Mmm! Deep fried bandicoot and deep fried blue hedgehog sound mighty delicious right now."

(Break out the guitar, we're gonna rock out!)

Dingodile makes a lovely first boss, don't you think? Now, it's not a good idea to go straight into him, lest you want to get burned, rather you should run away and collect the rings scattered about to keep your health (Bosses use rings, since Aku-Aku isn't around to save you, and it makes sense with Sonic here). Now the normal way is to just wait until Dingodile gets tired and drops his flamethrower, letting you hit him. Afterwards, you'd have to run away until he gets tired again. OR, if you really want to kick Dingodile's ass, you can find 50 rings around the place and go Super, and just keep running into him. Either way, about 8 hits will do it.

Achievement Unlocked: No Singed Bandicoot Butt.

*After the 8th hit...*

Dingodile: "Gah! Youse are the worst mates ever! But let's see how tough you are over ICE in the Ice Ages."

*Dingodile gets up and runs off, deactivating the force field and letting you move on to the next Terrarium. Crash and the others give chase...*

Next Time: Try not to become Crash cubes in the Ice Age Terrarium.

[elliotthezubat]

DEATH CITY DAYS CHAPTER 48

hotel investigations, guilds, and spider zombies

Customer #1: "Th-Thanks..." *looks afraid of Johannes's smile* metsu: *watches as they leave* Johannes: "See? My friendly smile got that purchase!" *then he holds up--* "And their wallets!" metsu: O_O Johannes: *looks through one* "Woo! This guy has some ugly kids--" -she returned their wallets and apologized for the doctor's behavior- Jeje: -_-;;; "How should we punish him?" metsu:..leave him up there for a few more minutes... Jeje: *nods* "I hope we tied the ropes well enough--" Johannes: ._.; "LET ME DOWN!" -elsewhere- Kid: *purr* stocking: *petting his head as he lays in her lap* Kid: "How was it?" stocking: welllll i dunno~ Kid: *mock-pouts* "Oh~? Something lacking?" stocking: *smoooch* hehe, how does it feel to be on the other end of the joke~? 7w7 Kid: "Hee hee...When it's you, I don't mind being on either end." stocking: *smirks and kisses him* Kid: *smooch, hugs her* "You're amazing..." *pats her side* -elsewhere- atsushi: TTwTT rip wallet... Kyoka: "...There is a crepe truck. I want a crepe." atsushi: ok... TTuTT Kyoka: *takes the crepe* "...You look scrawny." *holds up crepe to him* "Have a bite." atsushi: !!.... Q_Q *sad nom* Kyoka: "Not that much. You'll eat all of my crepe." atsushi: s-sorry....so...did you want to go anywhere else? Kyoka: *has been walking with him, and points to a building* "I want to go there." atsushi: ?...... !!!!! *It's a police station* atsushi: kyouka, if you go there, they'll- Kyoka: "I will be executed. If I return to the mafia, I am dead. So, I am here at the police station. My existence is a crime." atsushi: but you cant throw your life away like this! Kyoka: "I killed 35 people. Let me go." atsushi: but- ???: "There you are..." atsushi: ? *turns to see*.... !!!! *STAB* atsushi: !!!! *coughing blood* Kyoka: "?!!!" ???: " 'Executed'? Hardly...Because you accomplished our mission." Kyoka: "...Aku...tagawa..." Akutagawa: *stares at Atsushi* "Man-Tiger...You are mine." atsushi: *cough* Akutagawa: "She was the bait to draw you out, you beast. The tracker on her brought you where we needed you..." *A truck appears, its doors opening* atsushi: *passes out* Akutagawa: *clutches Kyoka's head* "Home..." -elsewhere- Yohei: *rocking Toru to sleep* toru: zzzz... chie: *smiles* he looks just like you. Yohei: *smiles* "He has your eyes...and smile..." chie: ^^ Yohei: *smiles at Chie* "You and I created this life..." -elsewhere- Relan: "Zzz..." -elsewhere- ox: *on the phone*....oh....i see...right...*hangs up*....*slams fist against the all* son of a BITCH!! Harvar: "?! Ox?" ox: *wipes eyes*....mom's getting worse... Harvar: "...I'm sorry...Did the doctor elaborate?" ox: she's becoming less responsive....*trying not to cry* Harvar: "..." *hand on his shoulder* ox: i dont know how long she can keep going...i just...wish i could make this easier on her... Harvar: "As any child would...You have to trust the doctors..." ox: im trying to...i really am.... Harvar: "...I think you should try to be with her..." ox: that's what i was thinking... -elsewhere- Yumi: *sipping tea* marie: this is nice. *smiles* Yumi: "Yes..It's good to see you looking well." marie: you as well. hard to believe christa's 2 already... Yumi: "They grow up faster than expected..." marie: i know...i wanna find a papa for her. Yumi: *small choke* "O- Oh? Um...M-M-Maybe focus on a father figure for her?" marie: yeah. someone who will take care of both us... Yumi: "..." *nods* "It is a challenge...Have you met men who already have children?" -elsewhere- Aizawa: "How's the newbie?" nemuri: he's adapting...sorta. Aizawa: "...Not the most encouraging verb. I suggest we help him 'adapt.'" *pulls out an airhorn* nemuri: O-O; Aizawa: *looks around for him* -elsewhere- Arthur: *yawn...* *turns over* -LOUD AIRHORN- Arthur: "AAAAAH!" *falls forward* shinra: X'D and that is how you wake the sleeping knight. Relan: *stifling a laugh* Arthur: "..." *slowly gets up, glaring...* shinra: and here is the part where we run. Relan: ._. *already running* Arthur: "GET BACK HERE!" *takes off after them* maki: never a dull moment, eh? Relan: "Nope!" Arthur: "ARG!" *leaps forward* -elsewhere- Kid: *sighs* stocking: u////u -early morning- atsushi: *regaining conscious* nnng....huh? where...am i? *He is in what looks like a metal crate* atsushi: *looks around*.....im not bound....*bump* *falls* ow!.... am i...moving? Kyoka: *in the front seat, clutching her rabbit doll...it has blood on it* atsushi: *looking around.* *The truck looks to have crates...some look opened* atsushi: *looks around at the crates* *One crate has blood...and claw marks* atsushi: O-O; *Another crate has a cell phone* atsushi: !!! *sends a texts to the ADA* Cell Phone: "..." <CHIRP> atsushi: hello? Kunikida: "WHERE ARE YOU?! WE DON'T PAY YOU OVER-TIME TO--" atsushi: i can explain! -atsushi explains the situation- Kunikida: "...Do you have the GPS turned on? What is your location?" atsushi: i dont know Q_Q but it's bumpy. Kunikida: "Obviously on the road." *pulls out a map* "At your present speed and the time, factoring in toll stops and red lights, you can be..." *circles around a radius* "...In a shit-ton of places." atsushi: TT~TT ....wait! we're stopping. *tries to look for a window* *Outside are mafiosos with guns* atsushi: O-O; *looks at a sign* -welcome to tombstone arizona!- Kunikida: "Brat! What do you see? Answer!" atsushi: we're in tombstone arizona. not sure for how long.... Mafioso: "I'm going inside to get a Big Gulp and take a whiz." Mafioso #2: "But then you'll need to take another whiz!" Mafioso #1: "...Anyone want anything inside?" atsushi: (thinking: think man, think!).... *notices claws*....ok, i hope what i've seen in comics is true... *tries cutting a hole into the side of the truck* *He's cutting a hole into the side...* atsushi: (thinking: success!) Kyoka: *in the front seat, glances at the side mirror...and spots Atsushi escaping* "!!!" atsushi: *trying to sneak up to her side, waving a bit* Kyoka: "..." *waves her bunny doll's paw back* atsushi: *looks around to make sure the coast is clear* *It is* atsushi: *sigh of relief and opens her side door* mafioso: i heard some guys were playing with a ouija board out here once. Kyoka: "You should not have done that. They will keep hunting you--" atsushi: *puts finger to lips to say 'shhh'* come on... Kyoka: "!!!" *shakes her head* "Let me die--" atsushi: im not going to do that. if you die, you wont be able to enjoy tofu anymore. Kyoka: "..." =\\\= "I suppose I am entitled to a last meal..." atsushi: *lifts her up and runs* Kyoka: "!!!" *clutching her doll* mafioso: yeah, and that's how mr mori got banned from stepping foot on the school grounds....hey, where did they go? Mafioso #1: *sipping on Big Gulp, then looks around* "...Oh, man. I'm glad I went first." mafioso 3: guys? we got a problem.... oh man, the boss is gonna kill us for this... Akutagawa: "Understatement." -elsewhere- atsushi: *checking phone GPS for a way back to death city* Kyoka: "...Why did you...?" atsushi: well...i didnt want you to throw your life away...*panting from heat* just...just cause you did something bad...doesnt make you a bad person...i dont think... and b-besides....death city...is a city of second chances...right? Kyoka: "...Where people face Death..." *fans herself* atsushi: *looking at road signs* Kyoka: "...Walking won't get us there any time soon." atsushi: *tries to call kunikida to give them a ride* *Low tower signal* atsushi: TT~TT of course.. Kyoka: "Perhaps if you were taller, you could get a better signal?" *shrug* atsushi: *looks around and sees a rock* aha! *climbs onto it* Kyoka: "..." *looks up* "Did it improve your signal?" atsushi: *checks phone* Kyoka: *looks around...does not see any cars* "..." atsushi: yes! *dials* hello? kunikida? we're on the road somewhere neeear....tombstone outskirts? Kunikida: *static* "Tombstone? Okay, we're on our way. Do you remember the--" *static* atsushi: OH COME ON! *tries to get the signal back* Kyoka: "..." *has dug a hole in the ground* atsushi: what are you doing? Kyoka: "Digging my grave." atsushi:....well arent you a ball of sunshine? TTuTT Kyoka: "No, I am a tiny blob of skin, bones, and regrets. ... I could dig a grave for you as well, if you like." atsushi: ...we-.... !!!!! Akutagawa: "..." atsushi: ooooh fffffiddlesticks.... *picks up kyouka and her doll and runs like hell* Akutagawa: "I hate when they run..." Kyoka: "!!!" *holds onto Atsushi* Akutagawa: *sends a shadow tendril after Atsushi* atsushi: this is bad this is bad this is bad this is bad- *Tendril slips along Atsushi's ankle* atsushi: O_O; *Lifts Atsushi up* atsushi: woaH! O-O;;;; Kyoka: "Ah!" *holds onto Atsushi as--* *FLUNG* atsushi: oooow... @-@; that...really hurt. Kyoka: *face down in sand* -____-;;; Akutagawa: *calmly walks towards Atsushi...holding an umbrella* atsushi: *helping kyouka up* you ok? Kyouka: "I'm still alive. Which means I--!!! Look out!" atsushi: ?! *SLICE* atsushi: *screams* Kyoka: "No!" Akutagawa: *lifts up Atsushi* "Captured." atsushi: *coughing blood* kyou...ka...run... Kyoka: *frozen* "I-I can't. I have...to do what I'm told..." atsushi: *looks at akutagawa* what is it you want from me? Akutagawa: "Your death..." *holds sharp tendril to Atsushi's forehead* "The weak should get out of the way for the strong." atsushi: !!! *dodge* Akutagawa: *stab stab stab, trying to hit him* "Stand still, pussy cat." atsushi: (thinking: i just hope the agency finds us and soon....otherwise we really will be in those graves!) Kyoka: *clutching her doll, staring at this fight* "..." *whispers* "St-Stop..." Akutagawa: *slice slice slice* *something slips out of his pocket* Kyoka: "..." *spots it* "!!!" atsushi: ? *spots it* Akutagawa: "I will silence you--" *BANG* atsushi: ?! Akutagawa: "..." *coughs up a bit of blood* "My ability...shielded me from most of it...but..." *turns* Kyoka: *aims gun at Akutagawa* Akutagawa: "..." Kyoka: "Unhand...Atsushi...now." atsushi: kyouka- Akutagawa: "..." *Akutagawa vanishes from sight* Kyoka: "?!" *CLUTCH* Akutagawa: *clutches Kyoka by the neck, lifting her up* atsushi: kyouka!! let her go! Akutagawa: "Do you know what the desert is like? Dry. Unforgiving. Here, your lungs burn with each breath, as you feel all life sap out of you. That is what existence is...The slow, daily release of whatever life you have within you. 'Demon Snow' will give you no relief here. It is carnage itself. You think someone like you can live outside the Mafia? No. That would be like trying to survive in the desert without water." *turns to Atsushi* "Man-Tiger, talk some sense into her..." atsushi: .... Akutagawa: "You have lived alone, Man-Tiger. Hated. A worm..." atsushi:....*wince* Akutagawa: “Kyoka...Return to the Mafia. Continue your carnage. Return water to the desert--bathe this world in blood. Otherwise, you are worthless. And that which is worthless--" Kyoka: "That which is worthless...has no right to live." Akutagawa: *smiles* "Yes." atsushi: ... Kyoka: "But..." Akutagawa: "???" atsushi: ?? Kyoka: "But...What is worthless...is still delicious. Like that crepe." atsushi: ah... -music can be heard not too far off- Akutagawa: "??? What now--" -a car is approching- Akutagawa: "?!" Kunikida: *leans out the car door...with a bazooka* atsushi: O-O;;;; where did he get that?! Kunikida: "Atsushi! Duck!" Kyoka: "..." Akutagawa: *tries to summon shield--* atsushi: wait! kyouka! Kyouka: *reaches out to Atsushi's hand* *BOOM* atsushi: ??!! *Smoke clears...Atsushi is collapsed on the desert...Kyoka is under him, shielded* atsushi: are you alright? Kyoka: "...Why did you do that?" atsushi: you said...the crepe was delicious... even when he said you didnt have a right to live... Kyoka: "..." *holds onto him* atsushi: ....*small smile*...here.... *hands her the doll* ...we'll wash it off when we get back to the agency. Kyoka: "...Okay. I--" *Growl* atsushi:...hungry? Kyoka: "...Yes. But I don't think that was me--" atsushi:...kunikida, can we get lunch on the way home? Kunikida: *looking around* "Yes...Where the devil did that monster go...?" -elsewhere, in a penthouse in new york- ???: "Those fools..." ???: well, since the mafia wont deliver...then we'll just have to pick it up ourselves, dont you agree? ???: "Agreed." *smiles* "Let's get to work..." -elsewhere- *Tsubaki's phone rings* tsubaki: hello? Mr. Tsubaki: "Hello!" tsubaki: *almost drops the phone* ah! w-wha-why are you calling me? i...*ahem* i wasnt expecting to hear from you... Mr. Tsubaki: "...I miss my family. I miss you." tsubaki:...did you want to talk to any of them? Mr. Tsubaki: "Of course!~" tsubaki: which one? Mr. Tsubaki: "I guess putting all of them on the phone would be too much...Start with Otogiri?" -and so- otogiri: are you behaving yourself? Mr. Tsubaki: *gasp* "I'm offended! Of course I have! ...Why, what have you heard?" otogiri: nothing. i just want to make sure c3 doesnt bother you...you still have work to do yet, dont you? Mr. Tsubaki: "Yes...in many ways..." -elsewhere- Kid: *whistles* -a few days later- Kyouka: "???" atsushi: zzzz..... Kyouka: "..." *puts a blanket over him* atsushi: zzzz... Kyouka: "..." *hug* -elsewhere- Touma: "I see we are all here..." yumikage: yeah, woop-de-doo. jun: *adjusts glasses* mafura: *staring at the fish tank* o.o Touma: "I want an update. How is work going on attracting the young man and Sloth?" yumikage: still a work in progress. Touma: "Progress faster." -elsewhere- Black Star: "You done in there?" -elsewhere- higuchi:....*outside akutagawa's room*...... gin:.....*worried*.... Akutagawa: *labored breathing* rain: how is he? higuchi:....he's alive... rain: ah... Tachihara: "Who the hell did it to him?" rain: im not sure....higuchi, you seem stressed....did you want to get something to drink? Higuchi: "..." *nods* "Something hard." -and so- rain: *hic* i hate that..ffuggin bastard! a-always..always making me do weird shit...and d-dont even get me started on that brat! s-she's a damn menace! Higuchi: TT_TT "I'm in pain..." *pats Rain's back* "What a mess..." Tachihara: *passed out under the table* rain: i-if it wussnt fer mr nakahara...i-ida-ida left thus damn job ages ago...*hic* Higuchi: "??? Youze want to make babies with Nakahottie?" rain: i wish! but im justa lowly errand gurl! h-he'z like...top 100 percent. i ju-ijust get stuck gettin dicked by the boss...a-an he duznt even find me good lookin...the fughin lolicon scumshit....TT_TT bartender: i think you girls had enough for tonight. why dont ya go home. get some rest. Higuchi: "Aw, come on." *eyes the Bartender* "Just one more for me and my friend?" mafioso: higuchi! the boss wants to see you. Higuchi: D: "Oh no! I'm not ready!" *grabs the bartender* "Black coffee, now!" bartender: alright! alright! jeez... Higuchi: *guzzles the black coffee, then tries to fix herself up* "H-How do I look?" -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *smiling* reimi: you seem to be in a good mood. Mr. Tsubaki: "Happy my family is largely okay..." =w= reimi: ah. how is everyone? Mr. Tsubaki: "Higan and Lavender are the same as usual, Sakuya...was a little passive aggressive. Naho is keeping an eye on Lilac. Shamrock...seems emo. And Otogiri is making sure I am behaving." reimi: ah..wait, what about the pink haired on...beruka? was it?? Mr. Tsubaki: "Hee hee...Belkia? He's still dating that new girl." reimi: new girl? Mr. Tsubaki: "Belkia had been interested in this girl obsessed with sugar, but then she married the Grim Reaper's son." reimi: ah. i see. i heard about that from tsukiyo. Mr. Tsubaki: *nods* "Quite an impressive wedding..." *sighs sadly* "Weddings..." -elsewhere- ochako: thank heavens for summer vacation. *chilling out at the local pool* Aoyama: "Oui! Quite relaxing." tsuyu: *swimming along casually* keron~... Iida: *squinting slightly without his glasses* momo: *chilling on a floaty bed* Izuku: *looking around* "Wait...Where is--?" ???: CANNON BALL!!! Izuku: D: Iida: ._. "What? What is happening?" -something surfaces to the water- Denki: *surfaces* jirou: of course... -_-; ???: "Almost there..." mina: *looks up*.... woah. Mineta: *his hand is just right above Mina...* ._.;;; -POW- -HOME RUN!- jirou: *hit him with a pool noodle* Mineta: *floaties fly off...and his swimtrunks land on Izuku's head* Izuku: "...Gross." -elsewhere- Kid: *sipping a cold lemonade* stocking: *sips* yummy~ Kid: *nods* "Just sweet enough." *offers a cookie* "...When do you go back to teacher training?" stocking: this fall. Kid: *smile* "Then I want to make this summer last as long as possible." stocking: *she smiles* Kid: "Anywhere you want to travel before summer ends?" -elsewhere- Relan: "Is this a good idea?" -elsewhere- himiko: *pokes her stomach* hehehe... ^^ Dabi: Q_Q mr compress: and this is why you use protection. Dabi: *glares* "I'll remember that when I'm riding that ass..." Kurogiri: "Himiko, may I help you?" -elsewhere- Dazai: "..." rain: *opens the door* Dazai: "..." *friendly smile* rain: *goes over to undo dazai's cuffs* Dazai: "Oh? What provokes this action?" rain: dont think im doing this for you. im just doing this to spite my boss. Dazai: "I'm sure it's still a little bit for me~" *winks* "Thanks." rain:......i-if you run into mr nakahara on your way out...p-please dont tell him i did this... ._. Dazai: "It'll be our little secret~" rain:...thank you. Dazai: "Hope this place is as I remember it...Any advice how to leave?" -elsewhere- Yosano: "Time to heal..." -screams can be heard- atsushi: O-O;;; Kyouka: *hiding behind doll* Kunikida: *organizing files* naomi: big brother! are you ok?! Tanizaki: "F-Fine!" *steps back* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: "I'm...almost there!" *struggling* "Just a bit higher..." -elsewhere- toru: *splashing in the kiddy pool* io: ^o^ Tool: "Enjoying it, kiddos?" mana: seems like it. lin: we're home! Emine: *carrying bags from the mall* "...What is that tiny water tub?" mana: tuhl got the kiddy pool out for the kids. Emine: "...I never got to play in a 'kiddy pool.'" mana: no one's stopping you. but i recommend waiting till the kids are done... Emine: "But I have a bad deed to do..." -elsewhere- Shamrock: "Okay, doing laundry. Get your baskets out here." -and so- Shamrock: *puts a basket in--and pulls out a military jacket* "???" Sakuya: "Yo, don't get bleach on that." Shamrock: *pulls out a Hello Kitty tank top* naho: ^^ Shamrock: *pulls out leggings* himawari: thank you..... Shamrock: "Um...Yes, of course." *smiles--as he then pulls out scarves...tied to scarves...tied to a pair of panties* "???" Belkia: "Hey! Don't get that in my magic scarves!" naho:....those arent mine.... lavender: not mine... Shamrock: "???" Belkia: "..." *light bulb* ^\\\\^;; "Whoops! Sorry, gals! Um...Get those washed, I'll return them, then..." naho: gross. Shamrock: *pulls out boxers with stars all over them* tsubaki: black*star, come get your boxers! Black Star: "Oh, shit, I was wondering where those were!" *runs down in his pajama pants* tsubaki: careful you dont trip! Black Star: "Wha--?" *TRIPS* -later- Black Star: -____- tsubaki: you really should be careful... Black Star: "So embarrassing...Tripping over my pajama pants..." tsubaki: on the bright side, you didnt break anything... Black Star: "True...Just bruised my pride." ^^; tsubaki: ^^ *smooch* Black Star: ^\\\^ *smooch* tsubaki: ^^ Black Star: *rests hand on her cheek* "Thanks." tsubaki: *hugs* Black Star: *holds her, kisses her cheek* Black Star: *cuddle* -elsewhere- Benimaru: "Thanks for joining me. It's been awhile since we've talked at the baths." kabuki: it's not a problem. Konro: *nods* "It'll be good to relax a bit after all this work...Kabuki was interested how you were." kabuki: how've you been? both of you. Konro: *sliding into the water, letting out a sigh* "Heh...Feeling my age." Benimaru: *smiles* "Better." kabuki: ah. i've been well myself. Benimaru: "What have you been up to?" -elsewhere- ox:...*sigh* well, she's doing better now... Harvar: "Hey, that's good..." ox: yeah, knock on wood. Harvar: *nods* "...You need something to eat?" ox: yeah. Harvar: "Okay..." *pulls some chicken from the fridge* "...You're a good son." ox:...*smiles* thanks.... Harvar: *nods* "Of course." *cleaning the chicken* "Want it seasoned?" ox: sure. Harvar: *pulls out the flavors* "...You know...You're..." ox: hmm? what is it? Harvar: "...You're a good person." ox:....thanks harv. Harvar: "..." *nods, continues cooking* -elsewhere- Sakuya: *in a skirt* "..." otogiri:...that's a nice look for you. Sakuya: "Shamrock got everyone's clothes mixed up..." -_-; *looks at Naho* naho: *in sakuya's hoodie*... nice and warm... lilac:.....*in a dress* naho: D8 its too cute! Sakuya: "Still works, though, Lilac." lilac:....t-thank you.... Higan: *in Belkia's suit* "???" lavender: *in higan's shirt* it wouldnt have been the first time.... tsubaki:....i think shamrock might be having a mental breakdown... Black Star: ._.; "This is the weirdest clothing swap ever..." Belkia: *in panties* "...I'm okay with this." naho: EW GROSS, BELBEL! Belkia: "..." *adjusts his panties* "I don't know whose these are, but I'm keeping them." himawari:...oh...ok.... Shamrock: *re-enters the room...in a bathrobe* "..." T_T tsubaki: feeling better? Shamrock: *shakes his head* tsubaki:...did you want to talk about it? Shamrock: *nod nod* "I just...feel useless." tsubaki:...you're doing your best. Shamrock: "...Not good enough, though. How did I give you all the wrong clothes?" tsubaki: maybe it's the stress?.... Shamrock: "How do I address stress?" -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *in fox form, lying in grass* =w= reimi:.... ?? *notices two people in the distance* Mr. Tsubaki: *looks at Reimi* "???" *turns* "...!!!" *runs towards them, like a puppy* Shamrock: *shiny eyes, holds out his arms...* Mr. Tsubaki: *leaps...* reimi: *watches* Mr. Tsubaki: *leaps...past Shamrock, towards Tsubaki* Shamrock: D:< tsubaki: ah! *knocked over* Mr. Tsubaki: *licks her face, nuzzles against her* tsubaki: >///< !! Shamrock: X_Q *standing next to Reimi* "Hi again..." tsubaki: down boy, down! Mr. Tsubaki: "???" *licks her face once more* tsubaki: p-people are watching! jeez. >///<; Mr. Tsubaki: *looks up at the crowd...* .\\\\. *hops off her, sits in front of her like an obedient dog* tsubaki: ^^; fang-hua: he's surprisingly feral for a kitsune... Shamrock: "...May we go inside?" tsubaki: good idea... Mr. Tsubaki: *whimper, pawing at her leg to be picked up* -inside- Shamrock: *looks around* "Oh...This is...peaceful." reimi: here we are, home sweet home. tsubaki: *she smiles* Mr. Tsubaki: *back in human form, dressed in his usual attire, smiling widely* .w. "I'm so glad you are here." *looks at Shamrock* "Both of you." Shamrock: x\\\\o tsubaki: likewise. reimi: want anything to drink? Shamrock: "...Do you have any local beverage?" reimi: we have green tea, or sake if you want some. Shamrock: "...Green tea. To start." Mr. Tsubaki: "And for you, Tsubaki?" *smiles* tsubaki: the same. Mr. Tsubaki: ^^ "I'll get some green tea for us all..." Shamrock: "...Reimi? Is he happy here?" reimi: he seems to be...though some nights, i can tell he's lonely... Mr. Tsubaki: *not hearing, busy making tea* Shamrock: "..." reimi: ...shamrock. what is he like? i still feel like i dont know anything about him... Shamrock: "...He saves people. He reaches out to those hurt, thrown away by the world...He is a good man who loves others so much that he doesn't want to put them at risk." reimi:....*smiles* that's good to know.... Shamrock: "..." *glances at Tsubaki* tsubaki: ......*faking a smile* Mr. Tsubaki: *enters with tea* "Enjoy!" tsubaki: thank you for the drinks. *sips* Shamrock: *sips as well* "Hmm...Reimi, these are good green tea leaves." reimi: thanks. konro harvested them. Shamrock: "Who?" reimi: he's the company commander of the 7th brigade. Shamrock: "Oh. So, you know these brigade people rather well?" Mr. Tsubaki: "I've tended to their injuries." *smiles at Tsubaki* "I've done a lot of treatment." reimi: mmhmm. plus sister kirei and commander benimaru are together~ Shamrock: "Oh? The commander has a wife?" Mr. Tsubaki: .\\\. *glances at Tsubaki* reimi: well, technically they're dating. but who knows~ Mr. Tsubaki: "Y-Yeah...Who knows..." Shamrock: "??? Anyway...Um...Reimi, how is the sake?" -elsewhere- Victor: *opens a cabinet* "Huh. I guess we did have extra salt..." -elsewhere- Jacqueline: "Oh, come on!" kim: what happened? Jacqueline: "The cable keeps going out..." -elsewhere- Yumi: *tense* lord death: *rubbing her shoulders* Yumi: =w= "Ahh...Right there..." lord death:... 7w7 *smooch on the earlobe* Yumi: *small groan* "Yes..." -elsewhere- ???: *approaches Marie* "Excuse me, ma'am?" marie: hmm? yes? christa: gubu? ???: "I saw this little lady dropped this..." *holds up Christa's plushie* marie: oh! thank you! christa: *hugs the doll* ???: "No problem...Well, have a good day..." *turns* marie: ... who exactly are you? christa: >8[ *throws her binkie at him* ???: "Ouch!" *laughs* "Strong arm!" marie: ^^; christa, that wasnt very nice. ???: "Quite alright." *holds out a hand* "Taishi Touma. A pleasure to meet you, Mrs.--" marie: mjolnir. and also, it's miss. Touma: "Oh. Sorry. I had thought--I mean...Heh. Pardon my assumptions..." marie: it's fine. Touma: "...Say...Are you busy?" marie: well- yumikage: hey teach! whats up! Touma: "..." *turns to look* marie: hmm? oh, yomika. i wasnt expecting you here. yumikage: eh, i was in the area. so who's this lil munchkin? christa: ^o^ marie: this is my daughter christa. yumikage: aint she adorable. hey there. christa: ^w^ Touma: "..." -elsewhere- Shamrock: *sipping the sake* xw= Mr. Tsubaki: *offers some to Reimi* reimi: im good. Mr. Tsubaki: *offers some to Tsubaki* tsubaki: i really shouldnt. Mr. Tsubaki: "Just one sip? It is tasty." -elsewhere- Medusa: ._. "...My eyes..." shaula:.....dude holy shit.....this is....wow. Ponera: *hiding behind Grimoire* "No no no no--" grimoire:..... O_____O milia: *has fainted* kinuta:....my words have failed me.... pandora: what? it's just a little blood. Mad!Kid: *disheveled...bloody...* "..." Ponera: "WE NEVER AGREED TO THIS! Medusa, Shaula! Administer first aid!" Medusa: -_____- beatrice: *has the med kit out* kinuta:...oh god his guts are.....*trying not to vomit* Mad!Kid: "..." *collapses* "D-Do you love it, S-Stocking?" milia: EEEEW HIS BLOOD IS GETTING ON MY SHOES!! Nals: *picks up Milia* pandora: ugh, you're all such cowards. do you want me to heal him for you? Medusa: "Yes!" pandora: alright... -closing up the wounds, though the scars remain- Medusa: "...Yikes." pandora: there, good as new...more or less. Mad!Kid: *unconscious...breathing...* -elsewhere- Kid: Q~Q stocking: *hugs him* Kid: *shudders* "Just felt strange..." stocking:....hmm... Kid: "I felt cold...and like my skin was coming off..." stocking:...*rubs his back* Kid: *sighs, relaxing a bit more* "Thank you..." stocking: any time. Kid: *yawns, lies back* -elsewhere- Giovanni: *speaking on the phone* "Yes...I know." ryuuko:....*listening, keeping out of sight* Giovanni: "...You are certain? ...Very well. I will proceed." ryuuko:.....(thinking: what are you planning...?) Giovanni: *hangs up, stands to exit the room* -elsewhere- Shamrock: *tipsy* "I just realized something..." tsubaki: um....are you ok? Shamrock: "All of us, in this room...are in love with _that guy_!" *points at Mr. Tsubaki* reimi: what? oh no no no! that's not what's happening here! tsubaki: e-eh?! Mr. Tsubaki: .\\\\\. "Ts-Tsubaki, I swear! Reimi and I are just friends! Vampire and subclass--" reimi: what he said! tsubaki: i believe you. ^^; Mr. Tsubaki: *sigh of relief, smiles at Tsubaki* Shamrock: "But there is only one person who recibro--recipicates--recipitates--reciprocates! And that's because Tsubaki and young master love each other!" *sniff* tsubaki: e-eh?! O-O;; Mr. Tsubaki: .w.; "...You do?" tsubaki: um...w-w-well....uh.... i-its complicated... Mr. Tsubaki: *happy smile* tsubaki: *sweats* sham, i think its time we went home now... Shamrock: X_TT *sniff* "At least I know young master has someone he really needs, to protect him, to watch over him--and to give him tiny baby young masters..." *sobs, onto Reimi's shoulder* tsubaki: shamrock. time to go home now! *drags him off.* Mr. Tsubaki: "Um...Maybe he should stay the night? Sleep this off?" -and so- tsubaki: and that's what all happened... *sighs*..... Shamrock: *snoring* Black Star: *sighs* " 'Complicated' is right..." tsubaki:.....*sighs* .....i didnt want to hurt his feelings.....but its hard. Black Star: *nods* "...I'm sorry. This isn't fair to you. You have some creepy insane stalker after you...and you're just, I don't know, trying to keep him from losing his shit?" tsubaki: ..... i guess.... Black Star: "...Tsubaki..." *hugs* tsubaki:....*sniff* thank you... Black Star: *wipes away her tear, kisses her cheek* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *eating alone at ramen shop* kabuki: ....?? oh, hello tsukiyo. Tsukiyo: *in the middle of slurping up a noodle* .\\\. *slurp* "...Yo. How's it going?" kabuki: well. just got back from the onsen. you? Tsukiyo: "Alright. Just having dinner." (" 'Onsen? =\\\\= ) kabuki: room for one more? Tsukiyo: "Sure!" *slides a bit to give him a seat* "Hungry?" -elsewhere- Yumi: *cuddle* -elsewhere- Takehisa: "I can't get this power coupler to work..." -elsewhere- Kyoka: "...You seem sad." atsushi: hmm? oh. im ok, really... -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: =w= "She loves me..." -elsewhere- Dazai: *holding sign* "Death City or Bust" -there is a car coming up- Dazai: *waves* Chuuya: *smirk* Dazai: D: Chuuya: "A beautiful view...even better than the most expensive painting!" chuuya: DAZAAAAAAI! YOUR ASS IS GRASS!! Dazai: .__. "Crap crap...I didn't know the little guy could talk." chuuya: *pulls over and steps out* look at you, hitchhiking like a damn vagabond. i should take a photo to memorialize this. Dazai: "I may be a vagabond--but at least my hat isn't stupid." chuuya: D8< at least _im_ not babbling about suicide when im at the prime of my life! Dazai: " 'Prime of my life'? Dude, I know you wear that hat to hide your bald spot." chuuya: grrr, if circumstances were different, i'd have mowed you down long ago! Dazai: "I'm sure." *eyebrow wiggle* chuuya: O-O t-t-the hell is with that look? Dazai: "Simple--the homoeroticism is so thick you could cut it with a knife!" chuuya: D8< *smirks* f-fine then! you want to fight? then let's fight! *cracks knuckles* i'll just beat that smug look right off your stupid face! Dazai: *already in front of him--with a punch to Chuuya's ribs* chuuya: oof!...hehe..oh now we're talkin! Dazai: "I know all your moves, Chuuya..." chuuya: heh- *mega punches* Dazai: *knocked down to the asphalt--then bounces off of the asphalt three times before landing* chuuya: had enough already?! come on! i know you can do better than this! Dazai: "..." (flips back up) "Huh. Not surprising, seeing as you are such a skilled hand to hand fighter." chuuya: *smirks* Dazai: "Too bad you can't kill me. I just have to dodge and take the force of your sissy punches." chuuya: *twitch and jumps at him* Dazai: *dodges* "Funny...Wonder why she let me out... chuuya: ?? Dazai: "Maybe she likes me! Or maybe she wanted to give you an errand to get you away from your HQ." chuuya: who the hell are you talking about? Dazai: "Oh, nothing~ Just needed a distraction while I tied your shoelaces together." chuuya: D8< YOU SON OF A BITCH! Dazai: *push* chuuya: !! Dazai: "Have a nice trip!" chuuya: YOU SUCK!! Dazai: "Hey, I was your partner for so long, of course I know your moves." chuuya: *growls* Dazai: "D'aw, I hurt your feelings?" chuuya: *glaaare* h-hey! HEY! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING WITH THOSE KEYS?! Dazai: "Nice wheels! Thanks!" chuuya: D8< .... at least drive me back to death city, asshole! Dazai: "...Fine. But I got a price..." chuuya: alright, what the hell do you want? Dazai: "Leave the Detective Agency alone, $50...and your hat." chuuya: i leave the agency be, give you 45, and i keep the hat! Dazai: "Deal!" -elsewhere- Relan: "Where are the towels?" -elsewhere- Shamrock: *lying in bed, sipping black coffee* "..." *groans* lavender: feeling any better? Shamrock: "Slightly...That sake just hit me hard..." lavender: no kidding... Shamrock: "..." *sigh* "I don't think he was interested in seeing me at all." lavender:...that's rough, buddy. Shamrock: "...He is devoted to her, Tsubaki." lavender: *listening* Shamrock: "When she is there, he brightens. He is happy. Content. Melancholia itself finds in her...a home. He loves her, in his own insane way." lavender: ... Shamrock: "I can't give that to him...I can be his family, I can be his servant...But I can't gain his love." *sniff* lavender: ...*pats his back* Shamrock: "...I'm sorry I embarrassed myself." lavender: hey, it's all good. Shamrock: "I just want young master to be happy...and I think that means making Tsubaki happy." -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: =w= "That was one tasty meal. Thanks for the company." kabuki: it's not a problem...you seemed lonely... Tsukiyo: "...Yeah, I was. Fang-Hua is busy, Benimaru is otherwise engaged--in the 'busy' sense, not the 'wedding' sense." ^^; kabuki: ah. *nods* Tsukiyo: "...How about you? Were you lonely?" kabuki: i guess i was just wanting to do something nice for someone. *smiles* Tsukiyo: *smiles back* "Well, good deed done!" *playful soft slug at his arm* -elsewhere- Hyde: "Okay, what you want on your burger?" licht: melon. romina: steak! julian: c-can i just have a salad please? Hyde: "Salad, sure. And...Wait, melon on a burger? That's weirder than peanut butter." licht: did i fucking stutter? Hyde: -_-;;; "No, Melon Boy." licht: still tastes better than cheese. Hyde: "YOU TAKE THAT BACK!" -elsewhere- Black Star: *stretch* "I think I'm ready for sleep." tsubaki: yeah. it's been a long day. good night. -morning- Kid: *sighs* stocking: *making breakfast* Kid: *smiles* "Want some help...?" stocking: if you want, sure. ^^ Kid: *smiles* "Let me just get the salt for the eggs..." *reaches past her to grab the salt--kisses her cheek* stocking: hehe~ Kid: *helps her with the eggs, then slices up some fruit* "...Married life is great." -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *inhales* "Another beautiful day~" -elsewhere- Dazai: "Approaching Death City..." chuuya: zzzzz...... Dazai: "..." *mischievious grin* chuuya: zzzzz..... Dazai: *parks the car...takes out a permanent marker* -later- Dazai: "Later!" chuuya: *face markered* .......you still suck! Dazai: "And you're without a belt!" *holds up his belt* chuuya: D8< *his pants fall, revealing heart print boxers* YOU SON OF A BITCH!! Dazai: "Peace out, Baldy!" *runs* chuuya: YOU'RE GONNA PAY FOR THIS YOU WASTE OF BANDAGES!!... *hmph*.... -elsewhere- Shamrock: *looks awful* x_-;;; "I feel gross." tsubaki: maybe a bath might help? i got some new bath salts too. Shamrock: *sniff* *nod nod* "That would be nice." -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "Oh, dear...Sprain your ankle?" -elsewhere- Hibana: *standing in a street, a Flame Being rushing at her* flame monster: *SCREEEEECH* hanako: kick its butt, mommy! Hibana: *friendly smile* "Sweetie, please stay behind the barrier!" *waves* "Mommy loves you!" *turns back to the Flame Monster, stares...and unleashes her power* -later- hanako: that was so cool! it was all 'nyooom' and you were all 'fwoooosh' that was totally wicked! Hibana: *smiles* "I do it to protect people--including you, sweetie." *picks her up* -elsewhere- Anya: *looking at wedding dresses in a magazine* "..." ao: would you like some more cake? Anya: "Hmm? Oh, sure. Thank you." *accepts it* Meme: "Mmm~ So tasty!" -elsewhere- Anya: "Hmm? Oh, sure. Thank you." *accepts it* Meme: "Mmm~ So tasty!" -elsewhere- Kyoka: "...Am I now the maid?" -elsewhere- Shamrock: x\\\\= "So relaxing..." naho: *setting up the bamboo tree* Black Star: "STAR FESTIVAL!!!" tsubaki: *trying to make wagashi* Sakuya: "Need help, Tsu?" tsubaki: sure. *she's following a video recipe on her phone* Sakuya: *slicing the fruits* "Oh, cool! Starfruit!" tsubaki: *she smiles* Sakuya: *notices Tsubaki's reaction, tries to act chill* "Um...I-I'll just mix these, then..." *internal squeeing* lavender: *helping naho set the tree up* Higan: *laying out some kimonos with stars on them* -elsewhere- Jacqueline: *looks around the pool* "Not that crowded." kim: *streeeetch* remember when we cleaned this place long ago? Jacqueline: *smiles* "Right before we became partners..." *laughs* "You were really rude." kim: yeah, and you were even more of a hardass. XP Jacqueline: *small pout...then pushes her into the pool* kim: ack! see? you've improved! Jacqueline: *smiles* "You're right." *dives into the pool* -elsewhere- Konro: "You're looking well." shrine head: likewise. Konro: "I brought some fresh produce and fruit. How is everyone here?" shrine head: the sisters have been well. me, sister kanzaki, sister yanase, sister nishihori, have all been well too Konro: "I'm glad, after all that happened...And the children?" shrine head: well. by the way, how have the young twins been? Konro: *chuckles* "Rambunctious. My poor garden is going to have its plants retreat down to avoid them." ^^; -elsewhere- Wes: *playing with Mocha* mocha: mrew! Wes: "Hee hee..." *dangles the yarn* "Never had pets growing up..." soul: *nods and smiles* liz: ah... Wes: "...Guess this is making up for lost time." *pats Ghost Dog* dog: ^w^ Wes: *belly rubs Ghost Dog* "I'm glad you're here, Soul." soul: *smiles* -elsewhere- Kunikida: *checks his watch* "Where is he...?" -knocking- Kunikida: "???!!" *opens the door* atsushi: ?? dazai! Dazai: "Hello!" *hands Atsushi a belt* "Happy birthday!" atsushi:.... *blinks* my birthday was 2 months ago... Dazai: *deathly serious* "Happy _early_ birthday." *intense smile* atsushi: *sweats* um.... wait a moment WHERE EVEN WERE YOU?!?! Dazai: "The Mafia kidnapped me." atsushi: !!!! Dazai: "I escaped. How about you? What were you up to?" -the situation is explained- Dazai: "...Huh. Glad you got out." *pat pat* "I had full confidence in you!" -elsewhere- lana: ...... Bellhop: "Lana, could you check on the guests in the Penthouse?" lana: ah, right. *goes up to the top floor* .... *she can feel hands on her, she then turns.....no one there...* ......*sigh* get it together lana... ???: "Pardon me..." lana: ?? y-yes? ???: "Hi...We could use more wine in our room..." lana: ah right. any particular brand? ???: "Amontillado?" lana: ah. right away mr...? ???: "Poe." -elsewhere- Arthur: "Got the ice cream." -elsewhere- Yumi: "Any luck on the dating front?" -elsewhere- Hugh: *dusting the corners* mahiru: *folding laundry out front* tetsu: *also doing work* Kuro: *sleeping on top of laundry basket* uzuki: sure is nice to have someone around to do the outside work during the day. Hugh: "??? You mean Tetsu?" uzuki: *nods* saves us the risk of heat stroke, haha. Hugh: "True! He is truly excellent at work in heat!" Kuro: *grumbles* misono: *standing in front of the fan* ...... Hugh: "Mahiru, what else to do for cleaning?" -elsewhere- Giriko: "Picking up my daughter from child care..." daycare lady: ah right. anna, your daddy is here. anna: ^w^ Giriko: "There she is!" *picks her up* "Daddy's here!" anna: ^^ arachne: hey there sweetie... ^^ anna: ^w^ Giriko: "Were you a good girl today?" -elsewhere- Kid: *looking at groceries* kirika: i think that should be everything... Kid: *pulling a separate cart of only sweets* "...You sure?" -elsewhere- Shamrock: "...They came out well." tsubaki: *she smiles* naho: *shiny eyes* sparkly.... Black Star: *reaches for one--* -chop to the hand- Black Star: "Ow!" *holds his hand, pouts* tsubaki: you just wait until tomorrow, mister. Black Star: *pouts* " 'Kay..." -elsewhere- Jacqueline: *drying her hair* "Good swim." kim: yeah....man, im gonna need to get my hair cut... Jacqueline: "Really?" *passes a hand along the back* "It's long, but looks nice." kim: i know. but i prefer keeping it short...having it long...brings back some bad memories. Jacqueline: "...I'm sorry." *small smile* "You'll feel better with it short." kim:...*smiles* thanks. Jacqueline: *stretches* "I think the local salon is still open. Want to head over now?" *pulls out clothes* -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *pats his belly* =w= "Good meal." -elsewhere- Kunikida: "Now that Dazai is back, we get back to work." kenji: so whats new on the agenda? Kunikida: "I want you to visit a hotel." kenji: oooh. sounds fancy. Kunikida: "You are observing only. I booked your rooms. Your covers are inside these folders..." kenji: oooooh. atsushi: *looks* Dazai: "??? I thought I would get at least an executive Suite...So, look into who is in the Penthouse? Not too difficult." atsushi: alright then... *looks at the disguise*... ummm.... Kunikida: "Problem?" atsushi: n-no! i just...wasnt expecting this. -and so- Kenji: "..." *adjusts wig* "Not really liking this. I wanted to be a brunette." atsushi: *adjusting his tie* 7///7; Dazai: "Nice look, buddy!" *pats Atsushi's behind* Kyoka: "..." *holds her doll closer* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *sitting on a swing in the park...looks up at the sky* fang-hua: hey there. Tsukiyo: "Oh, hey! Haven't seen you today, Fang-Hua. How's it going?" fang-hua: i've been busy setting up for the festival, you? Tsukiyo: ^^; "Been lazy...Sorry I didn't help with the festival prep. Still, um, 'finding myself.'" fang-hua: ah. Tsukiyo: "...Have a seat? I wanted to ask you about something..."' fang-hua: alright. *sits down* Tsukiyo: "...What do you think of Kabuki?" fang-hua: me? well, i suppose he's alright. but i dont know very much about him. Tsukiyo: "Yeah...Man of mystery, huh? I think I want to learn more about him." fang-hua: well im sure not stopping you. go right ahead. Tsukiyo: ^^ *hug* -elsewhere- Shamrock: *bows to Tsubaki* -morning- naho: *puts her paper on the tree* 'its impossible, but let me have a growth spurt this year, in one way or another!' Sakuya: *puts his paper on the tree* "Keep our family safe." lavender: *hers said 'let sham chill the fuck out, like for reals'* i used my wish on someone else, since im satisfied with what i have already. Higan: *smiles at her, as he hangs up his wish* "Booty." naho: you're gross, old man! lavender: why wish for something you can get whenever you want~? naho: eeeeeew! Black Star: "Moving on! ..." *puts up his note* "Give Tsubaki all she deserves in the world ('cause I'm already Number One!)" lilac ... [*in really small text* 'some confidence. maybe. i dunno.'] tsubaki: ['safety and peace of mind for my family'] otogiri: ['i hope the others dont do anything too reckless'] Shamrock: "..." ["Contentment"] -elsewhere- Mifune: "..." angela: ..... Mifune: "..." *pats Angela's shoulder* angela:...*nods* yuma:...*looking at the photo*....she's pretty. Mifune: "Yes...This would have been our anniversary." yuma:...oh. Mifune: "...Sorry. I am just...feeling so much right now." angela:...*hug* Mifune: *hug* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *shiny eyes* "Ooooo...Really good work on the festival this year!" fang-hua: *she smiles* Benimaru: "Yes, excellent work, Kohana." fang-hua: *sweatdrop* you arent ever going to stop calling me that, are you? Benimaru: *an actual smirk* "Afraid not." Tsukiyo: *chuckling* fang-hua: *sigh* figured as much. -.-; kirei: ^^; Konro: "Lovely outfit, Kirei." kirei: thank you. my mother sent it to me in the mail. fang-hua: it's almost hard to recognize you without your habit on. kirei: ^^; Tsukiyo: *thumbs up to Kirei* Benimaru: -\\\\\- -elsewhere- Tool: *walking with Io* "Just one step..." io: *tiny step* saki: *kneeling and clapping* good girl! you're almost there. *smiles* Tool: "You're doing great, Io!" -elsewhere- Bellhop: "Doing alright, Lana?" lana: yeah. im starting to feel a little better now. Bellhop: "That's good. So, they give you big tips at the penthouse?" lana: i havent chec- atsushi: *walking in* Bellhop: *stares at Atsushi* "Ah, hello! Welcome! May I help you?" atsushi: um. yes, we've rented out a room? *shows the papers* Bellhop: *nods* "Understood. We'll get your bags up there!" *looks at the others with Atsushi* Kenji: *pitching up his voice* "Sweetie-pumpkin, make sure to tip our new friends well!" Bellhop: .\\\\. *staring at Kenji* atsushi: um. *ahem* right of course honey~ *pays the tip* we'll be off now~! (thinking: I DONT KNOW WHAT I AM DOING HELP) Bellhop: "If you need anything, just call me, Ma'am...um, and Sir!" Kenji: *giggles and winks at Bellhop* -in their room- atsushi: *beet red* oh my god i had no idea what i was doing. Kenji: *stretches* "No kidding! I don't know how girls deal with this--" *pulls down dress, taking off bra* atsushi:...where did you even get mini sandbags? Kenji: "Ordered them." *pulls off dress completely* "Wanted to look the part." atsushi: right.... i really should have asked for romantic advice. sorry if im embarrassed you at all. Kenji: "No big problem!" *smiles* "Not much experience with romance? Just do what comes natural! Everyone's got different ways of reacting to someone they find attractive." atsushi: i guess...though to be fair, you did look nice in that dress...*slaps himself* focus atsushi! focus! remember why you are here! *jesturing with hand movements* Kenji: .\\\\. "...Thanks? That was...natural, at least." *scratches his cheek* "I wonder how the others are doing? I can imagine Dazai laughing at our interactions--" atsushi: stage 2. staff outfits! *pulls out a butler outfit....and a maid outfit.*...um... Kenji: "...Rock paper scissors?" -kenji got the maid dress- atsushi: alright, make our rounds, meet back here at 7 PM. Kenji: *salutes* "Roger!" *departs* -elsewhere- Kid: "...I wish summer could last a bit longer." stocking: yeah... Kid: *holds her hand* "We'll make the most out of it." *smiles* -elsewhere- gin: ....*outside akutagawa's room* ..... Akutagawa: "..." *groans* "So absurd." gin:..*looks around to make sure they are alone*..do you.....want to talk about it? Akutagawa: "...How did I get defeated so easily?" gin: well....they did have a bazooka. that they stole from us. -_-; Akutagawa: "Still, they should have been easy to beat, especially the Man-Tiger. I just got distracted." -elsewhere- Kunikida: *reviewing files* "I wonder..." naomi: *showing kyouka how to do candy kits* you just mix it with the little shovel like this, see? Kyoka: "...With a bigger shovel, then I could make bigger candy?" -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "Ready for the festival?" -elsewhere- Black Star: "...Can I have the treats now?" tsubaki: yes, black*star, but remember those are for everyone, ok? Black Star: .w. "Okay, just one, then..." *takes just one, hands the tray with the rest to Tsubaki...but he still is holding onto the tray* "..." -elsewhere- mahiru: *walking home from the store* Kuro: *walking alongside him* "Did you get the ice cream?" mahiru: yeah... oh. its mikuni. Mikuni: "??? Oh, howdy there!" mahiru: enjoying the summer. Jeje: *on Mikuni's shoulders* Mikuni: "...So, is it true you're working with C3?" mahiru: well....nothing is official yet. *notices abel in a summer outfit* oh, i see you changed your doll's outfit for the summer, that's cute. Mikuni: ^^ "Thank you kindly! I wanted to give her something to deal with this awful heat." Kuro: "..." *paws at the doll* mahiru: uh- Mikuni: *pulls back Abel* *glaaaaare* Jeje: "Please don't paw at his doll. He'll get annoying." -___- -elsewhere- Asura: "..." *small smile* mikan: *holding up heibito as he teethes on someone's severed arm* Asura: "He's growing up..." -elsewhere- Patty: *stare* -elsewhere- Relan: *eyes red* "So...many...statistics..." -elsewhere- Sakuya: "Good festivities!" -elsewhere- Rin: *fanning* "Yo, I brought back some cold treats! ...But I forgot the mineral water." ^^; kyouko: *sighs* i got it covered. Yukio: "Really, Rin, can't you be more responsible?" Rin: *pouts* "Just for that, I won't give you an ice pop." Yukio: D: shiemi: you can have part of mine. ^^; Yukio: .\\\. "...Thank you." konekomaru: so, what ever happened to mr neuhaus? i heard he called sick for a personal reason? Shima: "Maybe he caught a cold? I just hope he didn't get bitten by a...*gulp* bug..." *shudders* adrian: maybe we should pay a visit? we can give him a fruit basket! fruit baskets are hella rad! Bon: "Worth a shot. Might figure out what's up with that guy." adrian: lets go! *walking into a supply closet* Bon: "...Did she just...?" adrian:... *pops her head out* oops. that was a closet. ahaha! seiya: -_-; you and your awful sense of direction. Shima: "Know that feeling..." Bon: -_-; "Let's just go..." -and so- Shima: "...Any doorbell?" konekomaru: *knocks* -no answer- Shima: "...Um..." *looks at a window* Shima: "Maybe look inside? Or hop in?" izumo: *squints* tch-, its too dark in there. Shima: *slides open window* -silence- konekomaru: oh man, we're gonna be in so much trouble Q-Q Shima: "You worry too much! Come on!" *helps Konekomaru up through the window* konekomaru: .... -all the lights are off, not a sign of life in the place- shiemi: *shivering* Bon: "I found a light switch..." -the light sputters then dies- izumo: EEK! Shima: Q~Q "Someone hold me..." kyouko: hold on. *looks for something in her pockets* ..there! *pulls her soul gem out as a temporary flashlight* konekomaru: somehow the red glow makes it even creepier. Bon: "Beggers can't be choosers..." *looks around* "Sweep the room..." -the living room and kitchen are cleared, as is the bathroom. all that is left is the bedroom and an extra room- Shima: *opens door to bedroom* -its an utter mess, with various papers scattered all over- Shima: "Yuck! He left in a hurry..." kyouko: ....looks like he hasnt been here for a while... *examining papers* Bon: *sees a shattered photo frame on the floor* -it appears to be a man and a young woman smiling.- Bon: "Konekomaru, is that...?" konekomaru: i think so...hard to recognize without the eyepatch... Shima: "Neuhaus has a lady friend? Weird." izumo: *squints* i think this was an older photo from before he lost his eye... Bon: "...Why did he run off...?" *looks at the walls* "Maybe he hid something--" *his hand rubs along something* "...Spiderweb?" izumo: gross. Shima: "Guess dusting wasn't on his priority list--" *feels something crawling on his neck* o_____O -SWAT- kyouko: gross.... hey yukio, you got a flashlight on ya? Shima: *holds his neck* .______. Yukio: *turns on flashlight* "What on earth--?" kyouko: ok everyone out of the bedroom! *slams the door shut* he needs to call an exterminator... Shima: *loud screaming* adrian: hey guys! look at this! you might want to have a look at this. Bon: *covering Shima's mouth* "What is it?" seiya: some files we found. im assuming this is-....was, his study... Yukio: *reviews one document* "Is he...No..." izumo: what is it? Yukio: "...He was trying...to revive the dead?" izumo: ?! Bon: "That's forbidden!" Shima: ._. "...Zombies? Really?" kyouko: isnt stein the only person who has clearance to do that? seiya: even then, it's a risky move. if the soul has moved on from the body, then all that gets brought back is a monster... Yukio: "We have to report this now!" izumo: right. Bon: *looks outside* -elsewhere- ???: *arm bleeding* "Have to find her..." mitsuba: *grumble* some birthday this turned out to be....hnn? ???: "!!!" *tries to hide away* mitsuba: hello?....i-im armed! ???: *tries to run--and collapses on the street* mitsuba: hello?... !!! holy shit, we need to get you to a hospital! ???: "N-No...hospitals..." mitsuba: ?? ???: "Hide...me..." mitsuba: ???*looking around* *No one around* -elsewhere- Gopher: o^o "...Spider...Woman..." arachne: hmm? did you say something? Gopher: "Sh-She sprayed web everywhere, attacked tiny exorcists..." arachne: but i was here this whole time... kirika: yeah, i can vouche. lord death: hmm....this is unnerving....as much as it pains me....*sigh* miss arachne, would you be willing to assist us in our search? arachne: ......if it is to clear my name, then i shall. Giriko: *glares at Lord Death* Gopher: "I-I'll help! I don't want that spider woman to web me!" -elsewhere- Sakuya: *nudges Naho* "Think you'll get your wish?" naho: i hope so. Sakuya: *hug* "Whatever happens, I'll be here." naho: *she smiles and hugs him* thank you, sakuya. Sakuya: *forehead smooch* naho: hehe~ Shamrock: *sipping tea, alone at table* "..." himawari:....*sits down next to him* Shamrock: "...Hi, Himawari. Did you wish?" -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *eating a treat* "That was a great festival!" fang-hua: yeah. *she smiles* Benimaru: "Zzz..." kirei:...*smiles and tucks him in* Benimaru: =w= Konro: "D'aw..." kabuki: they'll be good parents. kirei: *small blush* maybe someday... Konro: "Heh, of course you and Beni will." Tsukiyo: "..." kabuki:...tsukiyo, did you want to watch the fireworks? Tsukiyo: "Huh? Oh, um, sure!" *smiles* -elsewhere- Yumi: [text to Marie: how's it going?] marie: [he still hasnt showed up. =3= ] Yumi: [darn. how long have you been waiting?] marie: [an hour now.] Yumi: [if you got his number, give him an earful] -someone enters- marie: ?? Mr angel: "I apologize for my lateness, Marie: I had to receive a report." marie: oh, it's fine. ^^ caliburn: 7n7 Triple A: *sits himself* "Have you ordered?" marie: not yet. Triple A: "How about a salad to start? Any wine?" -elsewhere- Kenji: *sipping a soda in a fancy glass* "Thank you~" atsushi: *still in the butler disguise* Kenji: *whispers* "See anything?" atsushi: not yet.... *spots a girl walking outside* Girl: *looking around* atsushi: *follows and bumps into a man in a lab coat* oh! sorry sir! ???: *smiles* "Quite alright. Working hard?" atsushi: yes sir! *salutes...then stops* ???: "??? Well? Back to work, yes?" atsushi: ah! right! *exits* girl:...who was that, rintarou? ‘Rintarou’: *smiles* "I think they are what we are looking for." -elsewhere- Michizo: "BWA HA HA HA! What the hell is written on your face?!" rain: ?? !!! m-mr nakahara! Chuuya: *pissed-off face* "I don't want to talk about it." *His pants drop* rain: O////////O Michizo: *giggling uncontrollably* Chuuya: "STOP LAUGHING, YOU BASTARD!" rain: ....huh? *blinks* belt! i should get you a bel- *trips* ACK! Chuuya: "??? You okay, Rain?" Michizo: *laughs louder* rain: *caught in a rope trap* TT~TT damn that little brat! Chuuya: *pulling his pants up* "Elise! What the heck?!" rain: she's not here right now...she and that bastard went out somewhere doing god knows what.. Chuuya: "Hmph." *helps Rain up* "We'll get her back later." -elsewhere- Kid: *yawn* stocking: *nuzzle* Kid: *hugs her* "Mmm~" stocking: ^^ Kid: "Love you...Mrs..." -phone rings- Kid: -_-; *yawn* *picks up the phone* voice: is young lady pheles there? Kid: "Yes? Who's calling?" voice: there's an emergency meeting at the true cross teacher's office. Kid: "!!!" *hands the phone to Stocking* "True Cross." stocking: !!! -and so- Bon: *waves her over* stocking: *taking a seat* teacher: any clue what's going on? teacher 2: i heard some of the cram students found something. teacher 3: yeah, by breaking the law! konekomaru: Q-Q;;; Shima: "I'M NOT GOING TO JAIL FOR THIS!" shura: alright everyone, chill out! jeez. no one's going to jail! teacher: alright, now miss meiling, miss fawkes, your reports? seiya: right. well, the students were discussing mr neuhaus' absence. so we decided to investigate. adrian: turns out, he flew the coop, but all his stuff was still there. Bon: "Was Neuhaus let go? Was he still a teacher here?" shura: well, his teaching license was suspended, but after that he kind of just vanished off the face of the earth. he's currently declared M.I.A. seiya: amongst our search, we discovered some things. a nest of spiders, and these. *places the files onto the desk* shura: ??.....!!! these are- Bon: "!!!" Shima: *covering his eyes* "Please, tell me it's not more spiders..." stocking:....mr okumura, these files... Yukio: "...Resurrection." -the room is abuzz with murmurs.- Yukio: "Please...Let's keep calm..." teacher 2: what are we going to do about this? Yukio: "We should first locate Neuhaus..." teacher 4: where do we even begin to start? Yukio: "His notes indicate items he needs: we start searching those sources." -the next day- Kaoru T: "Nothing here..." shura: *sigh* .....?? Yukio: *marks it off the list* "Not entirely 'nothing' here: Neuhaus's fingerprints are all over this totem." *holds it up in a baggie* shura: yeah. but these masks are givin me the heebies if you catch my drift. Yukio: "..." *counts the masks* "...How many should be here?" -elsewhere- Kid: "..." stocking: *rubbing his shoulders* Kid: *relaxes* "Thank you..." -elsewhere- Hyde: *sipping tea...out of a heavy metal mug* -elsewhere- mitsuba: *doing homework* ???: *asleep, turns over* "...Where am I?" mitsuba: easy there, you were bleeding really bad. you're in the C3 medical ward... ???: "...C3?" mitsuba: a 'neutral' group studying and hunting vampires and stuff. but why i am here is a long story. ???: "...How bad are my injuries?" mitsuba: well, we had to give you a transfusion for starters... ???: *looking at his arm* "...Amazing...You didn't know my blood type?" mitsuba: the doctors got that figured out. but that's not my business. ???: "..." *tries to get up* mitsuba: easy there, you need to regain your strength. also, our asshat of a boss wants to talk to you then. ???: " 'Boss'?" mitsuba: mr touma- Touma: "Yes?" mitsuba:....well, i'll leave you too be....*exits, glaring at touma* Touma: *smiles at ???* "Feeling better?" ???: "..." mitsuba: *listening in* Touma: *lays down a file, slides it to ???* "Surprised to see you away from True Cross, Minister." ???: "..." *takes the file...his eyes widen* mitsuba: ?! Neuhaus: "Hmph. You know who I am. You have me weakened and unable to leave. Are you here to kill me?" Touma: *smiles* "I don't eliminate resources." mitsuba:.... Neuhaus: "I will not work for you--' Touma: "Rest up. When you recover, we'll have much to discuss. I'll be able to introduce you to some...friends." mitsuba:.... (thinking: i have a bad feeling about this...) Touma: "I would hate for something to happen to you...or those close to you." *holds up a photograph of a woman* Neuhaus: "!!!" mitsuba: .... *has already left* Neuhaus: "I can't stay here! I need to get out there to make sure--" Touma: *slams the palm of his hand onto Neuhaus's chest, knocking him back into bed* Neuhaus: "URK!" Touma: *calm smile* "Rest..." *pushes harder...* *CRACK* Neuhaus: "ARG!" Touma: *smiles* "You need your sleep..." *turns on the AV drip* Neuhaus: "Y-You bas-bas-bast--" *passes out* -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: "Hello, Kabuki." kabuki: good morning. Mr. Tsubaki: "How did the festival treat you?" kabuki: well. and yourself? Mr. Tsubaki: "I enjoyed it! Would've been nicer with certain company, but that couldn't be helped." -elsewhere- Shamrock: *yawn* himawari: zzzzz..... Shamrock: "???" ("I guess she slept in here again...") *stares at her* himawari:...*shuffling in her sleep* Shamrock: "..." *hugs her* -elsewhere- Shotaro: "Spider-Kid! Spider-Kid!" *has Cartilage of Spider in his mouth--giving him eight legs and extras eyes as he crawls along the wall* mono: *SCREAMING* Shotaro: "???" Assi: *runs in* "What's wrong?! What's happening?!" mono: CHIEEEE! SHOWTARO IS BEING WEIRD AGAIN! mana: yeah, that's kind of his thing. Shotaro: *nod nod* "Animal Bone powers! Hee hee--" Assi: *bashing Shotaro with a rolled up newspaper* Shotaro: "OW! OW! OW!" -elsewhere- Giriko: "See anything?" arachne: hmm... Giriko: *looking around* "Reports were this spider-woman was hanging around here..." arachne: *looking around*.... *spider form and crawls up to one of the webs* how unusual. Giriko: "?!" arachne: this web doesnt seem to come from any sort of spider i know of...it seems almost otherworldly... Giriko: " 'Otherworldly'? Want to get this to the exorcists to study?" arachne: it would be a good idea. -elsewhere- Vulcan: *petting cats* lisa: *putting out food* Vulcan: "Hey, thanks!" lisa: *smiles* no problem Vulcan: "I mean it. It's good seeing you tending to them while I'm repairing things." lisa: *nods and heads back inside* ........ Vulcan: *picks up a cat, talks to it* "What you think? Lisa's been good to you, right?" -elsewhere- Relan: "Flame beings, vampires, now spider-people." .w.;;; "...Creepy." shinra: well it's only been one confirmed so... Relan: "One is still a lot. And that story about the Man-Tiger. I mean, what, are cat people next?" tamaki: yo. Relan: ._.;;;; "CAT PERSON." -elsewhere- Jacqueline: "Be careful out there. People seem on edge today." kim: i will. Jacqueline: "..." *awkward hug* kim: !!....*small hug* see you tonight? Jacqueline: *nods* "Okay." -and so- kim: *whistling* *A garbage can is knocked down* kim: ?? ???: *growl* kim: hello? *Arachnid legs appear out of the shadows* kim: ?! *It's a spider creature the size of a dog* kim: ?!?! what the hell?! Creature: *growls...* "Wiiiiiiiitch..." kim: *picking up a lead pipe* are you some remnant of arachnophobia? Creature: "Need maaaaagic to bring her back...full..." kim: like hell! Creature: *leaps at Kim, mouth opened* kim: *SWATS HER PIPE AT IT* STRIKE! Creature: *knocked back into the wall, with a loud crunch* kim: *swats until its dead*....*pant...pant*...what....just what the hell?? *All that is left is a mess of what used to be a spider creature...and Kim stepped in some of it* kim: eeeeEEEEEW!!! Bystander: "???" -elsewhere- Neuhaus: *wakes up...restrained* "!!!" mafura:...~? Neuhaus: "What the devil is this?!" mafura: so mafura-chan just has to take blood from him, mr touma? Neuhaus: "!!!" Touma: "Correct. Mafura, proceed." {dr yukimi: if a subclass is made by a servamp giving blood to a dying human...what would happen if the blood was given to a human at full health?} mafura:....*bites his arm* Neuhaus: *screams, trying to knock his arm into her face* mafura: *pulls back....snarling* *tries to bite again* Neuhaus: *reaches for anything, but he is bound* "STOP!" Touma: "Stop, Mafura. That's enough." mafura:......*backs up, still growling* Touma: "Mafura!" mafura: ..... Touma: *steadies himself, smiles to Neuhaus* "I just want to make sure she is fed..." Neuhaus: *spits in Touma's face* Touma: "..." mafura: ........ *PUNCH* mafura: *knocked to the floor, out cold* Neuhaus: "!!!" Touma: *shakes his fist, smiling at Neuhaus* "If that is what I would do to _her_, the one who bit you, for _you_ punching me, just think how much more damage I will do to those you care about...I don't want to hurt you, Preacher. I know you can withstand torture. But I also know you can't stand to see others hurt because of you...like how you hurt your wife--" Neuhaus: "Damn you! When I get out of here, there won't be enough of you left to identify the body!" Touma: "Hmm...Doubtful." *tends to his fist, bandaging it* "When she awakens, I'll proceed with the next step." mafura: *no response*.... Neuhaus: "..." *lowers his head* Touma: *smirks at Neuhaus, then stares at Mafura* -elsewhere- Higan: "..." *shudders* lavender: you like that~? Higan: *smiles, letting out a pant* "You know it~" -elsewhere- Jacqueline: "!!! What happened?!" kim: giant spider. like....really big. Jacqueline: "What?! Are you okay? Are you hurt?" kim: im fine. my shoe isnt though....*shudders* so gross... Jacqueline: "...Take those off and leave them at the door--we'll...I guess give those to the DWMA as evidence? Oh, Kim--I'm sorry..." kim: hey its alright. im still breathing, arent i? Jacqueline: "..." *nods* "I just...got worried." -elsewhere- Kid: *shudders* "Terrifying. stocking: *holding him* we're still investigating the matter... Kid: *nods* "I know you are...I have confidence you will get to the bottom of this." -elsewhere- Triple A: "Thank you for meeting with me again, Marie." marie: it's no problem. i was a bit bummed when you had to head out so early. Triple A: "I do regret that. But this emergency with work got in the way. I'm sure you have had those experiences. The good news is that I am free tonight." marie: that's good to hear. ^^ Triple A: *smiles* "Excellent. Would you be interested in going out, or staying in?" christa: *throws her binkie at him* TnT Triple A: "Ouch!" *looks surprised at Christa* "???" christa: *puffing her cheeks up at him* marie: christa, that's not very nice. Triple A: "Heh...She's just...playing, I'm sure. If you did not get a babysitter, staying here is fine." *smiles* christa: bawdy! bawdy! Triple A: *small twitch* "...I could cook..." marie: if you want, that would be great! Triple A: *smiles* "I can prepare whatever you wish! Just tell me what ingredients you have." -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *looking in a medical textbook* "...This is odd." *taps on a page* "Genetic similarities between spiders and humans." -elsewhere- Bon: "Damn it..." konekomaru: anything? Bon: "Nothing. I've gone through newspaper records, magic books, history books--" Shima: "Maybe you should've started with her diary." *slams the book down* "BAM!" Bon: ._.; "...I WAS GOING TO GET TO THAT!" ???: who's diary? Shima: *smiles* "That of Neuhaus's wife! You can count on me to sniff out any woman's diary!" Bon: -___- ("He has no shame.") izumo:..... HAVEYOUNORESPECTFORPRIVACY?!YOUCANTJUSTRUMMAGETHROUGHAWOMANSBELONGINGSESPECIALLYNOTADEADWOMANAND-[blah blah blah blah] -outside patchwork labs- -a female figure skulks over to the door- Stein: *recording his notes* "And that is how I figured out how to properly vivisect a live human without them realizing it--" -thud- Stein: "???" *stands and approaches the door, opening it* -a woman collapses to the floor- woman: *groans* valentine: !!! *lifting her up and getting her to a gurney* Stein: *examines the woman* "...I'm not getting a pulse." woman: *breathing faintly* Stein: "But she's breathing. It's faint. She feels cold. Get these dirty clothes off her, let's check her heart." -later- woman:....*staring out the window* Stein: "--and I want you to stay bundled up...Hey? Are you listening?" woman: *glances over at him*....right.... Stein: "..." *looks out the window* "Yes, the decor outside is disappointing. I never have time to do much with the garden, Valentine too." woman: ....... Stein: "I want to call your emergency contact. Do you have that information?" woman:...i dont know... Stein: "...Do you remember your name?" woman:.....*she shakes her head* no....i dont remember anything....just waking up in a clearing and wandering.... Stein: " 'A clearing'? Any landmarks?" woman:...none i can recall. Stein: "..." *nods* "We'll get you to recovery physically, then work on all additional recovery..." woman..... Stein: "...Valentine? Has anyone else been here?" -elsewhere- Ponera: -___-; "The noise has not stopped. Someone, stop that noise." grimoire: oi, shut up in there. Medusa: *aiming a snake at the door* "I agree--stop it, now!" shaula: yeah anyway! i cant get my beauty sleep with all that scratching! *The door is thrown open* Mad!Kid: "...I...am making...art..." shaula: yeah, i would fingerpaint on the walls to when i was younger, but i didnt use BLOOD FROM A DEAD BODY!! kinuta:...!!! *hurk* oh god... Mad!Kid: "??? What would you have me use?" Medusa: -_-; ("Shaula's fingerprint paintings still looked like trash.") shaula:....*shrugs* Medusa: *sighs* *tosses a set of paint at Mad!Kid* "I got this for my child's future art. Now you get to use it. Don't disappoint." -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *smiles* "I feel a lot better." fang-hua: glad to hear. Tsukiyo: *nods* "I think I have closure regarding the Commander..." *blushes a bit* fang-hua: that's good. Tsukiyo: "..." *awkward cough* "I think I'll go out on a date." -elsewhere- Assi: "...Mono? You feeling better?" mono: y-yeah...just a bit shook up.. Assi: *nods* "Yeah. Some animals unnerve me, too." *pats her shoulder* -elsewhere- Neuhaus: "..." ("Awful...demonic...evil...") {???: *SCREAMING*} Neuhaus: "!!! What on Earth?!" -silence....perhaps it was a memory?- Neuhaus: "..." *remembers* {Neuhaus: "This isn't what was supposed to happen!"} -knocks on the door- Neuhaus: "?!" mitsuba: dinner time. Neuhaus: *glares at her* "Your glorious leader thought I was entitled to a meal?" mitsuba: listen, you need to get your strength up....i dont like what he's doing either...that guy....i get a bad vibe from him... Neuhaus: "He had that girl bite my arm. That's not a 'bad vibe': that's psycotic." mitsuba: what?! Neuhaus: "And then striking the girl! What, you didn't notice her absence? She was lying right there on the floor!" mitsuba:....i'll be right back. here's your food. Neuhaus: "Keep it. It's probably poisoned." -touma's office- mitsuba: TOUMA! I GOT A BONE TO PICK WITH YOU! Touma: *his mouth is smiling, but his eyes are angry* "If I had a quarter every time I heard that..." mitsuba: what did you make mafura do, touma? mafura: ?? *looks back from the fishtank she is staring at* Touma: "I brought her to meet with our injured minister, for assistance with providing medical relief to him." mitsuba: yeah, before you ordered her to attack him! Touma: "??? I don't understand. I had given the minister a sedative when he attacked Mafura." mitsuba: ?? Touma: "He struck her. The trauma of his injuries--and whatever he did to himself--has obviously affected his mind, leading him to hallucinate. Could you ever imagine Mafura biting someone?" mitsuba: .... mafura:....*head tilt* ?? Touma: "The poor minster is not thinking clearly. Mitsuba, I want you to keep an eye on him to make sure he is safe from himself and his own imagination." mitsuba:.....very well.... mafura:....mr touma? what was mitsuba talking about? Touma: *smiles at Mafura* "Would you like some dessert?" mafura: mafura-chan wants pudding! Touma: "Then let's get you some pudding." -elsewhere- Mr. Tsubaki: *in fox form...kicking slightly in his sleep* =w= -morning- Jacqueline: *tossing in bed, talking in her sleep* "N-No..." kim: jackie? *puts a hand on her shoulder* Jacqueline: "Ah!" *turns over, panting, eyes open* "..." *sighs* "Sorry...Nightmare." kim:...hey, its gonna be ok. Jacqueline: "..." *wipes her eyes* *nods* "After yesterday...if anything happened to you..." kim: *hugs* im alright, see? Jacqueline: *nods, hugs back* "Yes...I should have been there..." *holds onto her* -elsewhere- Stein: "How's this morning starting for you?" woman:....tired.... Stein: "Can you stand?" woman: *tries to walk, but stumbles a bit* Stein: *holds her up* "You're doing better...Lean on me." woman:...t...thank you...doctor... Stein: "You're welcome. And Stein is good enough." woman:...*nods* Stein: "Just a few more steps...We can get you something to eat." woman:...right... Stein: "What do you like to eat? Meat? Vegetarian?" woman:..... Stein: "??? If nothing comes to mind, we can try different meals...Valentine is a better cook than me anyway." valentine: bad news...i might have broken the microwave.....again. aya: i got it! -aya just made rice for everyone- Stein: *stares at the broken microwave as he eats his rice* "I'm going to charge you for that, Valentine." valentine: that's fair. Stein: *watches the Woman to see whether she eats* woman:...*small nom* Stein: *smiles* "There you go." woman: ...... valentine: i've sent a report to lord death. but nothing has been found in the DWMA's database. Stein: "I guess we're waiting for any memories to return to her. For now, don't spread it around that she's here." valentine: *nods* Stein: *looks at the Woman* "Are you okay with staying here?" woman: *nods* i have nowhere else to go... Stein: "Then we'll have to adjust your living arrangements--can't have you staying in just a hospital bed." woman:...*nods* Stein: "Okay, so two of us will go out to get new housing items, and one of us will stay here with--with--...Um...What should we call you?" woman: just 'miss' is fine... Stein: *nods* "Miss." ("...Miss Tery?") valentine: wouldnt that be mrs? *points to a ring on the woman's finger* woman:...ah..then i suppose 'ma'am' will do... Stein: "Okay, ma'am." *starts writing a list* "Bed, sheets, clothes..." -elsewhere- Neuhaus: "..." *struggling to move* -elsewhere- Sakuya: "I'm done in the shower, whoever wants it." -elsewhere- Dazai: "How's it going?" atsushi: fairly well. havent found out too much yet. but we're getting close. Dazai: *nods* "Now, by 'close,' you got a name for these folks?" atsushi: i think one of them is named 'lucy'. Dazai: " 'Lucy'? Huh. What's she like?" atsushi: red hair and braids. kinda reminds me of pippi longstockings. from the books? i think? Dazai: "Keep an eye on her. See whether you can track a schedule. Also, try to give her this." *hands him a piece of paper* atsushi: what is this? *"Lovers Suicide Pact Contract"* atsushi: .________.; Dazai: "If you think she'd be up for that kind of thing, drop a hint to her." atsushi: riiiight. *sweatdrop* Dazai: "You two blending in okay? Not raising any suspicions, I hope." -elsewhere- Kid: "...She's dating whom?" stocking: triple A batteries! i have never been so disappointed in someone in my whole life! Kid: -_-; "Maybe she just has poor taste. Or poor eyesight. Or poor soul perception." stocking: we need to do something about this. i'll have a talk with her. Patty: *pops up* "Maybe he has a big--" stocking: *SCREAMS* Kid: o___O "Ego! She was going to say ego, Stocking, I'm sure!" Patty: "...'Ego' is what he calls his penis?" stocking: how fitting. since he is such a dick. Kid: "..." *high five* stocking: >u< Patty: *pulls up a dating app on her phone* "Maybe you can find someone else for Marie, too." *looks at options* "...Too old. Too young. This guy definitely was in prison for murdering a clown or something. Huh--this guy doesn't look bad OH GOD I FOUND SPIRIT'S OLD DATING PROFILE!" stocking: he should delete that-... *snerk* whats with the dude with the cowboy hat? Kid: "??? Isn't that...I swear I saw him before...Um, why is he holding dolls?" -elsewhere- misono: *JAWDROP* Lily: "...Hm. I wonder why I hadn't thought of this." misono: LILY! Lily: "I'm simply making an observation. After all, your brother may have a good idea..." -elsewhere- Tool: *asleep on the couch with Io* Yohei: *asleep on the couch with Toru* saki: our guys and our kids. chie: i know. *smiles* Emine: *holding up a balloon...and a pin* -elsewhere- Arthur: *practicing sword fighting* -elsewhere- atsushi: hey tanizaki. Tanizaki: "How's the work going? atsushi: i think we might have a lead. Tanizaki: "Great! What you need me to do?" atsushi: well-....hey....where did naomi go? Tanizaki: .~. "About that..." Tanizaki: "She's busy...serving tea." atsushi: ah. Tanizaki: *seizes Atsushi's wrist* "The guy looks skeevy..." atsushi: ?? Tanizaki: "He had this big bookcase--smelled like money." atsushi: ?? Tanizaki: *points outside--at a helicopter* atsushi: woah! Tanizaki: "Rich boy is meeting with our boss right now!" atsushi: just who is this guy? Tanizaki: "Fitzgerald...Rich American." atsushi: *opens his mouth to say something, then shuts up* -patchwork labs- woman: ...... Stein: "Got your bedsheets washed." woman:...thank you.... Stein: "You're welcome." *pulls out a cigarette and puts it in his mouth, then pulls out his lighter* woman: ??...*when she sees the flame, she freaks* AHH!!! IT HURTS! IT HURTS SO MUCH!! *screaming* Stein: "?!!" *closes lighter, turning off the flame* "What? What's wrong?" woman: *breathing hard* it burns! it burns! *crying and scratching at her arms* Stein: "!!! Valentine!" *holds the woman's arms* "Stop!" valentine: *gives her some sedative* woman: *shaking until she calms down* Stein: "..." ("We know one thing that terrifies her...A trigger...") "Come, ma'am: let's give you some rest." woman:.....*still shaking a bit* Stein: "...You'll be okay." woman:.... *touches her face near her eye*......... -the eye covered by her hair looks milky and dead- Stein: "..." ("Okay, I should have done more analysis of that earlier...") "...Is your eye irritated?" woman: i think...t-the fire....*muttering* blue flames.... Stein: "...Lie down..." woman:....*lays back down, staring at the ceiling* Stein: "...May I get you anything?" -elsewhere- stocking: ahhh.... =w= Kid: *smiles, rubs her hand lightly* stocking: thanks for the massage, hun. Kid: "Any time..." *kisses lightly along the back of her neck* "Feel a little less tense?" stocking: yeah~ Kid: *lays his hand alongside her* "...I'm glad..." *rubs lightly along her lower back* stocking: mmmm u///w///u Kid: "Stocking...You are so beautiful..." *lays both hands along her lower back, massaging lightly* stocking: *soft sigh* Kid: *massages lower...* stocking: oh~! Kid: *massages her bottom* "Amazing..." stocking: *pouts* you're so leeewd. *giggles* Kid: " 'Lewd'?" *kisses her lower back lightly* stocking: *soft moan* Kid: *small pat on her bottom, before he gropes her cheek* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: ._.; "...Why does he have a V-shaped frown?" Gopher: .^. "Why does she look like a demonic rabbit?" fang-hua + kirika: long story. Gopher: *hides behind Kirika* Tsukiyo: "??? What? Now I scare away tiny boys, too?" -elsewhere- Jacqueline: *sitting in the bathtub* "..." ("It's relaxing...Still...") kim: *sorting mail.....sees a letter from the du pre family......discards it* Jacqueline: *out of the tub, drying off, calls out* "Kim! Did you get the mail?" kim: yeah, it's on the kitchen table. Jacqueline: *comes out in towel, goes to the table, flips through--* "Oh, a thank-you card from Blair." *smiles...then frowns and glares at Kim* "Kim..." kim: what? Jacqueline: *eyes narrow* "You're hiding something..." *holds up stack of mail* "I don't see the electricity bill here." kim: oh. here. Jacqueline: *smiles* "Thanks. Don't think you can pull a fast one on me, okay?" kim: *she nods* -elsewhere- Black Star: "How's Mifune doing?" kyouko: according to yuma and angela, doing alright. Black Star: "Small miracles, I guess...After the festival, he seemed off." kyouko: ....this time of the year is kind of hard on him... Black Star: "..." *nods* "Sucks." kyouko: yeah.. Black Star: "...Maybe he needs a break?" kyouko: actually, he's out right now. i've been asked to look after the kids while he's out. Black Star: "Did he say where he was going?" kyouko: i think he has a mission. -elsewhere- Mifune: *walking* -footsteps- Mifune: *hides* yumikage: -rugi's covered in blood, has an ice pick, it was kind of a weird tuesday. Mifune: *watching* "!!!" hyakuya: is that right? -once they are out of sight- Mifune: *follows from a distance* -in another room- Neuhaus: *staring at the ceiling* *The window opens slightly* Neuhaus: "!!!" ???: "Not a word. A friend..." Neuhaus: "..." -later- Mifune: *whispers* "This way..." *holding up Neuhaus* Neuhaus: "..." *small grunt* -elsewhere- Fitzgerald: "Quite an offer..." kirako:....*looks at fukuzawa* Fukuzawa: "And you want our permit." Fitzgerald: *nods* Fukuzawa: "I refuse." kirako: *smiles* Fukuzawa: "This permit is the soul of this agency, representing its work, its people." Fitzgerald: "..." Fukuzawa: "It can't be bought with money--" Fitzgerald: "The classic line of the impoverished person. Just remember: if the agency is its people, what is an agency without people?" kirako: ..... Fukuzawa: "Quite a rhetorical question to conclude this meeting." *stands* "Leave. Now." Fitzgerald: *smiles* "Until next time." *stands to leave* naomi:.... Fitzgerald: *departs--then looks back* "Check the papers tomorrow for a message from me. Read carefully, old sport: if I desire it, then I make it mine." -elsewhere- Touma: "?!" -elsewhere- Kid: *smooch* stocking: ^w^ ~<3<3<3<3 Kid: *hugs* "You know what feels different since marriage?" *cuddles* "My love for you only increases." stocking: yeah. i feel the same way~<3 *smooch* Kid: * kisses her hand* stocking: hehe~<3 Kid: *stares at her* "...I hope a child that is ours...would have your smile." stocking: *smiles and nuzzles* Kid: "...I hope...I am good..." stocking: you're amazing, kid. Kid: "...What if i failed as a parent?" stocking: i doubt that. Kid: "Why? I...don't have much confidence after mistakes in my family...and in myself..." stocking: because i know that even with your flaws, you're smart, loving, a true leader, compassionate... Kid: "..." *holds her* "...I don't want to fail any children we would have." -elsewhere- Sakuya: *hug* naho: ^w^ Sakuya: "Glad you are here." naho: im glad you're here too, sakkun~ Sakuya: *lifts her into his arms* naho: ah! hehe! Sakuya: *smooch* naho: *smooch* ~<3 Sakuya: *smiles, as he carries her to her room* -elsewhere- Victor: *playing Crazy Taxi* "So, the point is to run over pedestrians, right?" -elsewhere- Rin: *carrying bags of groceries* "Didn't think we'd run out of food so quickly." konekomaru: you'd be surprised... Rin: "??? What? Who's been packing on the weight? It's Bon, right? Has to be Bon." Bon: *glare* -a few days later- shinra: *wakes up screaming* Relan: "!!!" shinra: OH MY GOD! JOKER IS MY DAD! JOKER IS MY DAD! Relan: "Shinra--Shinra!" *holds his shoulders* "You're having a nightmare..." shinra: *panting*....*calms down* ju...just a nightmare....not a memory....*phew*....*hug* thanks rel... Relan: "..." *holds him* "Anytime..." *strokes his head* "Just get in a few breaths..." shinra:......*shaking* Relan: *kisses the top of his head* "It's okay...Breathe in...and out..." -elsewhere- Benimaru: *curled up in bed, groaning* -elsewhere- ???: ....... ???: "...I can't breathe well through this mask." ???: then maybe you should take it off for a moment. ???: "...Fine." *removes the mask* "Not proper decorum..." ???: *making a call to giovanni* any progress on the adora burst child? Giovanni: "One is close to me. The other is getting too close to _you_." ???: how so? Giovanni: "The boy has been speaking to Vulcan." ???:....i see. Giovanni: "We cannot let some alliance form between them. We need the Burst. We need Vulcan's key." -elsewhere- Meme: "Got the pumpkin sprouts!" tsugumi: awesome! Anya: *opens plots for sprouts* "Put them here?" tsugumi: *nods* Meme: *carefully placing a sprout* "Your turn, Ao!" ao: *placing it in* Meme: "Now you, Mio!" mio: ok...here? Meme: *nods* "Then you go, Tsugumi!" tsugumi: *singing and planting* Meme: *hums along...* Anya: *sings a bit* mio: ???? Anya: *starts watering the plants, humming* -elsewhere- Neuhaus: "Where are you taking me?" shura: just into questioning. you have a lot of explaining to do regarding some things we found. Neuhaus: "I don't have time for this! We need to find her!" shura: we have people looking for her now, relax. Neuhaus: "You don't know how to find her! I do!" *tries to stand up* shura: mr neuhaus! -someone comes in- person: we...we found her. Neuhaus: "?!" person: she's....not well. Neuhaus: "...May I see her?" person:....*he nods* she's in medical. Neuhaus: *nods* "Thank you..." *starts to walk to medical* woman: .......*uneasy* why am i here? Neuhaus: "...Michelle..." michelle: *looks up*.....!!! *SCREAMING* NO!! Neuhaus: "!!! Michelle, please. It's me, your h--" michelle: *scratching at herself* IT BURNS! IT BURNS! HE-HE'S GOING TO HURT ME!! medic: ma'am, please calm down. michelle: w-who are you?! WHAT DO YOU WANT?! Neuhaus: "I am your husband! Remember me! Please!" michelle: i-...i dont....*shaking* nurse: according to reports, she has near total amnesia. Neuhaus: "...Michelle...Please..." *holds up a hand* michelle: S-STAY BACK!! *a web shoots out* ah.....AHHH!!!! Neuhaus: *smacked by web* "?!!" nurse: what the hell?! nurse 2: get lady felisia! Neuhaus: *tries to pull loose from the web* "Michelle...Don't--" -someone has arrived- Neuhaus: *looks--and sees what she's holding* "No! Don't hurt her!" felisia: im not going to harm her. im just getting rid of the mess. *cutting the web away* Neuhaus: "How are you able to cut through?" felisia: these are holy garments, sewn by the hands of an angel. or in this case, a fallen one. Neuhaus: " 'Fallen'...You're..." felisia:....*she nods* cast out of the city of arcadia for carrying the child of a demon. Neuhaus: "...!!! You are--" ???: "Contain her!" felisia: ?! *Slices at Michelle* michelle: !!! *backing into a corner* Triple A: "Abomination...Time to remove you..." Neuhaus: "!!! No!" -clang- felisia: now what do you think you're doing? Triple A: "This is not life! This is not natural! It has to be removed." michelle: w-what? *trembling* felisia: do you really think you have the right to decide her fate like this? Neuhaus: "That is Michelle! You can't--" Triple A: "That thing is not your wife!" *tries to push Felisia back* felisia: *retaliates with a kick to his stomach* Triple A: *falls back* "Umph!" felisia:...stocking's right you know. you _are_ an ass. Triple A: "_The_ ass." *pulls rug out from under her feet* felisia: !! *jumps back* Triple A: *leaps back up--* Neuhaus: *leg out--tripping Triple A* Triple A: *face-plant* Neuhaus: "Michelle--run!" michelle: ah....*frozen in fear* Triple A: "Monster!" *stabs into Neuhaus's shoulder* Neuhaus: "AAAH!" felisia: !! -a loud airhorn sounds- Triple A: "What the devil?!" shura: now that i have your attention, everyone chill the fuck out! mr neuhaus, miss michelle, we have some things we still need to ask you. Neuhaus: *bleeding from his arm* "...Hard to focus..." -later- michelle: ..... Neuhaus: "Don't you remember who I am?" michelle:....i dont...remember anything...before waking up... Neuhaus: "...I did this to you." michelle: ?? Neuhaus: "I...did not want you dead..." michelle:.... Neuhaus: "I broke that taboo...I brought you back from the flames..." michelle:.....*shuddering* the...the blue flames.... Neuhaus: "I couldn't bear to lose you..." michelle:...*whimpering* why does it hurt so much...? Neuhaus: "A spiritual fire, that burns the soul..." -elsewhere- Yumi: "...I think he should be removed from his post." felisia: you and me both. *sipping tea* i think he's letting his title go to his head. stupid bastard. some angel he is....though considering how things were in arcadia, it's accurate. Yumi: "I can only imagine..." *sighs* "This is going to kill Marie, but better than the alternative." felisia: yeah, haha. Yumi: *sighs* "I'm sorry for this, Felisia. Please, proceed as best you see." felisia: *she nods* Yumi: "And please let us know how we may help." felisia: right... on a lighter note, have stocking and kid been working hard making a baby? Yumi: "...I wish. Still no pregnancy." -elsewhere- Kid: *electric spark goes through his brain* *stares at Stocking, blushing* stocking: *humming and filing papers* Kid: "..." *holds her from behind* stocking: oh~? Kid: *kisses her cheek, then her neck* stocking: mmn~ k-kid, im trying to work~ Kid: "I'm not stopping you..." *slides his hand along her belly...and down* stocking: *shudders and sighs, still trying to get work done* Kid: *he caresses her* "Can you work while sitting at your desk?" stocking: i-i think so... Kid: *leads her to her chair, pushes her to her desk...then gets under the desk* "Shh..." stocking: *smirks* Kid: *on his knees...he lifts her skirt up...kisses her knee, coaxing her to spread her legs* stocking: *does so, still working and licking her lip* Kid: *he kisses up and down her thighs...then kisses along her panties* stocking: nnng~ Kid: *he continues kissing, before tugging her panties away and--LIIIIICK* stocking: a-ahhhH~! Kid: *continues--* Patty: "Knock knock!" stocking: O-O;;; Patty: "Hey, Stocking! How's it going?" Kid: *hidden completely under the desk...* "..." *smirk* stocking: fine, w-why do you ask? owo; Patty: "Just wanted to see how work was going? Hey, you okay? You look a little hot." Kid: *smooch* stocking: must be-ee...the summer heat. haha. ^^;;; Patty: "Yeah, it really sucks. Want to head over to the commissary, get some lemonade?" Kid: *small lick* stocking: a-after i f-finish up here, sure. ^^;;; Patty: "Great! I'll see you there!" *waves* stocking:...*phew*... *pouts* kid, you're so meeeean. >3< Kid: *sits up, looking her eye to eye* "Just a bit of fun..." *looks behind them* "And since the door is closed..." stocking: *grin* -elsewhere- Tsukiyo: *collapsed on the ground* fang-hua: !!! tsukiyo! are you ok?! Tsukiyo: *muffled voice* "I tripped." fang-hua:.... *cheek pull* you had me really worried there, jeez. -_-; Tsukiyo: Q~Q "Ouch! It's not like I wanted to fall!" *cheek pull* -head chop- kabuki: behave you two. fang-hua: yes sir. Tsukiyo: Q____Q "Meanie..." -elsewhere- Kunikida: "Report." atsushi: well, that rich guy that came by is the one staying at the penthouse of the hotel. Kunikida: "Hmm...To come all the way here just to shut down the Agency..." atsushi: .... Kunikida: "Are they still at that penthouse?" atsushi: yeah. so far we know mr rich guy and the redheaded girl are there. Kunikida: "Did either of them see you here at the Agency?" atsushi: i dont think so... Kunikida: "Keep an eye on them. I want all of us to--" *stops...counts the people there* "???" atsushi:....sir? Kunikida: "Where is Miyazawa?" atsushi: um.... *glances over at miyazawa, still in a dress* Miyazawa: "Hi!" Kunikida: "...Oh. I thought you were someone else. Good disguise." Miyazawa: *wide smile--then his phone vibrates* "Oh! I got another nice comment! Love the attention." atsushi: ^^; Miyazawa: "This one wants to take me out to dinner. Hot dang! Beef bowls forever!" atsushi: *whispers to kunikida* is he gonna be like this forever? i think we may have done something dumb. maybe. Kunikida: "I never do anything dumb. My decisions are sound--" Miyazawa: "Huh. I wonder what kind of restaurant a 'love hotel' has--" atsushi: uhhh... -elsewhere- Chuuya: "Hmph. I'm not short. He's short." rain: well...m-maybe drinking milk might help? Chuuya: "...Worth a shot. We got any?" rain: i think so. *hands him a carton* Chuuya: *takes it* "Bottoms up..." *sips* rain:.... .////. *phone rings* y-yu-yes? elise: whats up ya lard! rain: *cringe* oh. its you. what does he want from me now? Chuuya: "???" ("Mori again?") elise: *grins* rintarou, rain called to complain about her paycheck again! rain: D8< WHY YOU LITTLE- Mori: "Have her come in..." rain: ..... TT_TT yes sir.... Chuuya: "??? Hey...Want me to go with you?" rain: r-really? i-im sure you're very busy, being an executive and all, and i wouldnt want to trouble you.. .////.; Chuuya: "Eh, I got a few minutes. Besides, can turn it into a meeting with Mori if need be. Let's go." rain: ok.... *stiffly walking to the elevator, sweating* Chuuya: *sipping on his milk, as he pushes the button for their floor* "What'd he want?" rain: that little brat elise lied saying i was complaining about my paycheck! and he invited me up. and we all know how that goes.... TT-TT Chuuya: "...That's fucked up." rain: and whats worse is he's not even attracted to me...mostly due to....*excalibur* unsavory tastes.... Chuuya: "I'd count my blessings that he's not. Besides, not everyone can see you're fine looking." rain: y-y-you think so? .//////. Chuuya: *shrug, sips his milk* "Yeah. Not like you got a conjoined twin or something." rain: right.... .////.; *DING* Chuuya: "Well, off we go--" Mori: "Hello~" rain: *inhales and sighs* hello sir.... T___T Mori: "Why the long face?" *stares at her* rain: ...elise was lying. elise: i was nooooot! Mori: "I have to side with Elise on this one. Elise, what do we do with liars?" elise: punishment game! rain: D8 Chuuya: "???" Mori: *claps his hands* "Excellent idea! Proceed, Elise." elise: short guy you may wanna go, this is gunna get ugly. rain: D8> Chuuya: "...I worry I better be a witness to this, or else things might get more complicated..." *glares at Elise* elise:....*griiiiin* *pulls rains skirt off* HA! Chuuya: .\\\\\. rain: Q_Q NOO!! *trying to cover herself* Mori: *smiles* Chuuya: "What the fuck?!" *removing his jacket* rain: TT~TT Mori: "Is that enough, Elise?" Chuuya: *trying to hand the jacket to Rain to cover herself* elise: yeah, i made her cry. rain:.... q/////q Chuuya: "Yeah, big fucking deal--making someone cry. Really, you are such a talent. Real virtuoso." *eyeroll* elise: *pouts* Mori: *whispers to Elise* "Just wait...You can do worse to her..." *smiles at Chuuya* "Defending the young lady? Noble." *stares at Rain* rain: Q_Q Chuuya: *glares at Elise* "How about giving up the skirt now, you demented little Polly Pocket doll?" elise: *sticks tongue out at him* Chuuya: *takes a step forward* elise: *throws it at his face* woo! ten points! Chuuya: "..." Mori: *chortle* rain: .//////. Chuuya: *holds them up* "...They're ripped. Little douche witch." elise: want me to punch you in the balls, shorty? Chuuya: "Nah, you're probably too busy grabbing Mori's." elise: ? Mori: *awkward coughing fit* rain:.......*disgusted glare at mori* Mori: -_-;;;; "Just leave, now, before Elise gets really angry." -elsewhere- Black Star: "Yo, where's everyone?" lilac: yard. Black Star: "What, for a game or gardening?" *steps outside* -there is a tent set up- Black Star: "???" *approaches* naho: we got a camp set up! lavender: yep, still got it. *smiles and nods* Black Star: "...Huh. The great outdoors and all that?" *looking around* "Campfire food?" lavender: higan's got it covered. Higan: *cooking yams* -elsewhere- Kid: *sighs* stocking: *panting* Kid: "You like it?" *small squeeze* stocking: *siiiigh~* Kid: "Hee hee...This is so naughty..." *small spank* stocking: mmmn~ Kid: *thrust* stocking: *moans* Kid: *holds her close, as he picks her up and holds her against the wall* stocking: f-fuuck~ Kid: *smirks* "Careful...Not too loud..." *harder spank* stocking: *kissing him hard* Kid: *moans, as he supports her weight and thrusts into her, matching her rhythm, his tongue along hers* stocking: *grinding and kissing* Kid: *pant pant* "Oh God..." *moans, his member throbbing* stocking: ngh~ kid~ Kid: "Stocking...You're so fucking hot..." stocking: ah~ fuck me you sexy beast. Kid: *grunt* "With--ah!--pleasure..." *slaps her behind again, thrusting harder* "Gonna make you cum so fucking hard." stocking: i dare you~<3 Kid: *leans into her neck, leaving a small bite* stocking: mmmmn~ Kid: *kisses down her neck, reaching her nipple...* stocking: *shivers* Kid: *takes her nipple in his mouth, massaging her breast* -elsewhere- Chuuya: "...Why do you let him treat you like that?" rain: well, if it gives me a decent paycheck, i have no choice. TT_TT that bastard is the bane of my existence. if there wasnt one thing holding me back, i would have broken my condition long ago. Chuuya: "...And what would that one thing be?" rain: oh...um.... uhhh... ???: *howl of pain* rain: ?! Chuuya: "Shit...It came from that door." rain: *hides* O-O;;; Chuuya: "..." *approaches the door* ???: "Let me out! I said I have finished recovering!" *A shadow tendril knocks down the door* rain: eep! >.< *Akutagawa emerges from the room* Akutagawa: "..." rain: oh, its just him....that's slightly more comforting...keyword 'slightly' Akutagawa: "...Lost another skirt?" rain:...... TT~TT stupid ability of mine... Chuuya: "At least you're back on your feet. No help with the Man-Tiger--" Akutagawa: *already towering over Chuuya* Chuuya: ._.; rain: O.O; Akutagawa: "..." *pushes Chuuya with a tendril back across the floor* Chuuya: "AHHHH!" rain: m-mr nakahara!! *she runs over but slips and.....* -squish- rain: .... >//////////////<;;;; Chuuya: "???" *squeeze* .\\\\. Akutagawa: "..." rain: O////////////////////////////////////////////O Chuuya: "...I am so sorry." *tries to use gravity powers to get her off of him..but...* *rip* rain:..... Q//////////Q IYAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! Chuuya: .\\\\\\\\\\. *...something else is rising...* rain:.... O//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////O *FAINTS* Chuuya: D: Akutagawa: "...I'm going to go now." -elsewhere- Patty: *looks at the clock* "What is taking them so long?" stocking: *comes out of the room* ok, im ready. Patty: “About time! What took so long?!" stocking:....busy. very busy. Kid: *pleased smile* Patty: "Oh, hey, Kid! I didn't see you come in." stocking: he was helping me~ Kid: "Paperwork can take a long time." Patty: "??? But you take forever to organize things 'cause you're so obsessive. How was _that_ helpful, Stocking?" stocking:....you'd be surprised~ Patty: "??? O-kay..." *smiles* "Well, time to go to the commissary!" *holds up an empty wallet* "Kid's gonna have to buy!" -elsewhere- Harvar: *looking around* "..." *pulls out a 3DS...* -elsewhere- Sakuya: "Any campfire stories to tell?" -elsewhere- Chuuya: *sighs* *knocks on door* "Rain? You there?" rain: !!! *fixing her apartment up* y-yes? Chuuya: ".. I wanted to check in. May I come in?" rain: um.. s-sure! let me get the door for you. Chuuya: *he's in a jacket, standing at the door* "Okay." -the apartment isnt too large, but it does have some nice decor- Chuuya: ".. Wow. You do alright for yourself." rain: thanks. i get by. *she smiles* do you want anything to drink while you're here? Chuuya: ".. Sure. What you got?" -elsewhere- Akutagawa: "Absurd." higuchi: what is? Akutagawa: "I am powerful. Yet I stand in the shadow of any weakling?" higuchi: ?? Akutagawa: "...I will show both of them that I am powerful..." *stares at Higuchi* "I want the Man-Tiger." -elsewhere- Jacqueline: "??? A voicemail message?" kim: ??... its from the girl's dorms. Jacqueline: *presses play* Anya: "Get here now!" kim: ?! what's going on?! *Phone rings* Jacqueline: "???" *picks it up* Anya: "WHY DIDN'T YOU RESPOND TO MY VOICEMAIL! GET HERE BEFORE WE'RE DEAD!" kim: we're on our way!! Jacqueline: *follows Kim* -and so- -squish- kim: -_-; Jacqueline: *sigh* Anya: *hiding behind a chair* "...Is it gone?" kim: yeah, its gone. Anya: *sigh of relief* "You saved us!" TT~TT kim: -_-; it was bad enough having to kill a thousand legger for ox... Jacqueline: "I think you better pay Kim well for this..." Anya: "Oh, right!" *holds up $20* -elsewhere- Jacqueline: "I think you better pay Kim well for this..." Anya: "Oh, right!" *holds up $20* -elsewhere- shura: well we got the test results back. seems her body has become home to a jorogumo. Neuhaus: *shocked* shura: it would explain the spider webbing we found. michelle:......*shaking* Neuhaus: "...What have I done?" shura:....i know you wont want to hear this, but maybe it'd be best to put her out of her misery... Neuhaus: "!!! No!" shura:....do you...need more time yet? Neuhaus: "I-I can't do that! She deserves...She deserves a life!" shura:....*nods and exits* .....damn. michelle:....sir?....am i....going to die? Neuhaus: "...I don't want you to..." michelle:...why? i barely know you... Neuhaus: "Michelle...I'm your husband." michelle:....*shaking* why cant i remember that? Neuhaus: "It-It may take time..." ("...It has to work...She can't be lost...") michelle:.....cold... Neuhaus: "..." *offers a hand* michelle:.....*slight lean*.....t-thank you... Neuhaus: "..." *holds her* "I'm here..." -elsewhere- Triple A: *holding an ice pack to his head* caliburn: are you feeling better? D8> Triple A: *removes ice pack, showing a bruise* "Fine. Just annoyed." caliburn: i cant believe that little shit hurt you like that! >n< Triple A: "Caliburn! She's just a child!" caliburn: still she hurt you! that's unacceptable. Triple A: "...Let's make an exception here. I don't want to offend Marie--" -elsewhere- Dazai: *sets out drinks* atsushi: so what's this? Dazai: "I think we could all stand to relax a bit, so I ordered a round!" atsushi:....is 18 a legal drinking age? Dazai: "It is in Canada." *pulls out a flag and slams it onto the table* "Canada!" atsushi:..... *sweatdrop* Dazai: "Come on--just a sip. You need to chill a bit." atsushi: am i gonna get in trouble? Dazai: "No, I'll make sure of that. Trust me." -later- Dazai: *giggles* atsushi: *blergh* ugh, im gonna diiiie TT-TT Dazai: "No, that's just the happy beer fairies dancing in your belly!" *sips again* "Just eat some more nachos to quiet them fairies!" atsushi: TT____TT Dazai: "??? What's wrong, buddy? Tummy problems?" -elsewhere- Rin: "Jeez..." shiemi: poor mr neuhaus.... *sniff* Yukio: "..." *pat pat* Rin: "Any word from the higher-ups?" izumo: nothing yet, just to focus on our studies. Bon: "Some of us more than others..." Rin: *sticks his tongue out* konekomaru: *looks at shima* Shima: "??? What?" *he's got a can of bugspray* izumo: the camping trip is next week, dummy. -_-; Shima: "And after dealing with the Spectacular Spider Babe, I'd like to not get bitten by more bugs! Who knows what the outdoors could have?!" -elsewhere- Chuuya: "Thanks again for the drink." rain: n-no problem. .///. Chuuya: "...Hey. I know things are rough. But you don't have to shoulder these burdens alone." rain: ....t-thank you, mr nakahara... Chuuya: "...Chuuya's fine too, Rain." *pats her hand* rain:.....o-o-ok.... ./////////. Chuuya: "..." *cough* "I also wanted to apologize for a lot that happened before..." rain: i-i-its fine! really! Chuuya: "But between you getting abused by that pedo-freak and..." *blushes* "...the rest...I wanted to apologize and try to make it up to you..." *opens up a bag he brought* rain: oh um..w-whats this? *screaming on the inside* Chuuya: *he pulls out what looks like a doll--but is shown to be the ripped off top of a doll's head* *smirks* "Gift #1: I sent a message to pedo-freak's little brat." rain:..... owo; Chuuya: "You like it?" rain: um....thank you...? Chuuya: *smiles* "You're welcome...There is something else I owe you." rain: oh? Chuuya: *stands* "...You shouldn't have been embarrassed by me like that, so..." *removes his jacket--and he's just in--* rain:........ *FAINTS* -THUD- rain: ow! *blinks.....she's in her room*.....oh....of course.... TT_TT *A paper is left there by her bed* rain: ?? *she reads it and smiles* *Note* "Thanks for the company--I was glad for it, and I hope you were too. Just remember: you don't have to shoulder these burdens alone. --Chuuya" rain: *blushes and wipes away a tear*.....*checks answering machine* Answering machine: *MISSED CALLED FROM _Ougai Mori_* rain:.................. *renames contact to 'that sick bastard mori'* Answering Machine: *MISSED CALLED FROM _that sick bastard Mori_* rain:...... *deletes it* *Knock knock* rain:.... *looks through the keyhole* *It's Mori* rain: *cringes and puts the door stopper up* Mori: "Hello, Doll." rain: (thinking: no, i wont let that bastard ruin my evening!) Mori: "Open. We have work to do." rain: *turns up the radio really loud to drown him out* Mori: "..." rain: *praying he leaves* Mori: "...Hmph." *turns and departs* Mori: *about to turn back--* *Phone chirp* rain: O-O; Mori: "..." *looks at his phone* "...Damn it, Nakahara. Pestering me..." rain:....*sigh of relief* -she didnt get any sleep until a little after midnight- -morning- Dazai: *collapsed in bed with a bottle* =w= atsushi: .....who's bed am i.....AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!! Dazai: *slaps his hand over Atsushi's face like he's hitting snooze on an alarm clock* "Five more minutes please..." atsushi: ah- mr-mr dazai! mr dazai wake up! *shaking him* Dazai: *opens his eyes, smiles* "Oh, hey, Atsushi. What're you doing?" -elsewhere- Mori: *sour mood* ???: well you seem quite bitter. Mori: *turns and looks* "I tend to be, when I see minor annoyances that impede progress." ???:.....kyouka still hasnt returned... Mori: "Another annoyance." *stands, pacing* "That Agency took her, and someone was unable to retrieve her...He failed." ???: then perhaps we shall take matters into our own hands then? Mori: "Perhaps...Who do you propose visit the Agency?" -elsewhere- Neuhaus: "..." *puts his head in his hands* michelle:.....*asleep* Neuhaus: "..." *pulls a blanket over her* michelle:....*faint smile* Neuhaus: ("She smiles like before...It can't be a demon in her...") -elsewhere- Relan: *strokes his face* "Nightmares?" shinra: yeah, just nightmares....not flashbacks...*shaking* Relan: "...This isn't healthy...You need sleep and maybe, I don't know, talk about it?" shinra:..yeah...that might help. Relan: *holds his hand* "With me? Or the Commander? Or a professional?" shinra: ....*nods* Relan: "Okay...I think there's a therapist at school?" shinra: *nods* that might help. -elsewhere- Chuuya: *whistling* -elsewhere- atsushi: the shop shouldnt be too far now. Tanizaki: *yawns, pouts* naomi: aww, are you tired big bro? Tanizaki: .______.;;;; "Um...No? Yes? Nes? Yo?" naomi: do you want to lay on me~? atsushi: O-O; Tanizaki: ._______________.;;;;; "I AM FINE AND DO NOT NEED TO LAY ON YOU!" atsushi: O-O;;; oh, seems we can cross the street now! (thinking: chibuya crossing sure is a busy place, you could get lost if you werent paying attention) Tanizaki: "Naomi--I just kind of wish you weren't so...Um, I mean, that is to say--" *looks back* -she isnt there- atsushi: huh? where did she...? -a few other people have noticed some others have gone missing- naho: lilac?! come on this isnt funny! Tanizaki: "Naomi!" *runs into the crowd* atsushi: t-tanizaki wait! Tanizaki: *runs through the crowd, disappearing* atsushi: he-hey! *runs after him* *Someone is running _away_ from Atsushi, avoiding him* atsushi: *tries to follow them* tanizaki! "Tanizaki": *stops walking* atsushi: come on, its dangerous to go running out into a busy stree- "Tanizaki": *creepy smiling face with braces* "Come and play..." atsushi: !!!! y-you! you're the girl from the hote-...huh? Girl: "Fu fu fu...Welcome to Anne's room! Oh, my, so much attention..." Tanizaki: *reappears, stands before her* "...Where is she? Where is Naomi?!" atsushi: ... naho: lilac?! where are you?! person: h-hey where the hell are we?! Girl: "Oh, you're all frightened of this new place--I can understand! If it were me, my heart would leap from my chest! As for your friends..." *smirks at Tanizaki and Naho, as she points to a door with a window in it* naho: *peaks in*... !!! LILA!! lilac:..... naomi:.... atsushi:...kenji! Tanizaki: "!!!" *slamming his fist against the door* Girl: "Can't open a door without a key..." atsushi: then where is the key? Lucy: *shows the key* "To get it, you'll have to play with Anne." atsushi: that doesnt seem so hard. where's anne then? Lucy: *points behind Atsushi and Tanizaki* Tanizaki: "???" *looks behind--* o___O atsushi:....*high pitched squeak* oh. Anna: *a creepy doll towering over Atsushi and Tanizaki* Lucy: "You hide. She seeks. If you open the door with this key--" *tosses it at Atsushi* "--before Anne finds you, you win! Who else wants to join this game?" *looks at the crowd* Crowd: *screams* naho: O-O e-eh? atsushi: ok! sounds easy enough- Anne: "But no violence in here! You must not damage my toys!" *looks at the crowd* "If you're so scared, you could go into that room..." *smiles as hostages* -several people fled; the only ones who remained are atsushi, tanizaki, naho, and a man in a white coat- Tanizaki: "??? Why are you staying?" naho: my friend is trapped in there! i cant just abandon him! White Coat: *shaking* "A girl..." atsushi: ?? White Coat: "Elise...An angel..." *holds up a photo* "Have you seen her?" naho: oh! she was in the room! we'll help her out! White Coat: TT~TT "Thank you!" atsushi: tanizaki, do you think you can use your ability to help us out? Tanizaki: *nods* girl: *smiles* "Then let's begin..." Tanizaki: *holding up the key as he summons his ability--* naho: *caught* eh? White Coat: "!!!" Anne: *ROAR* atsushi: tanizaki!! naho: *SCREAMS as she's dragged into the room* Tanizaki: "?!" *grabbed* "!!!" *tossed into the room after Naho* Lucy: *singing* "Anne sees another friend..." atsushi:.... o-o;;;;; Anne: *rushes at Atsushi* atsushi: *running* nope nope nope! -he jumps up and grabs onto one of the streamers- Anne: "?!" Lucy: *shiny eyes* "An acrobat!" atsushi: (thinking: just got to get to the door...) Lucy: "Such a powerful ability...You must have had a lot of time to cultivate it..." atsushi: (thinking: DO NOT LOSE FOCUS) Lucy: "You're an orphan, too, huh?" atsushi: !!? Lucy: "I had plenty of time to improve my ability...That's what attracted the attention of the Guild." atsushi: !!! Lucy: "...And if I fail, the Guild will throw me away...You were found by the Agency, weren't you? Welcomed, weren't you?" atsushi: ..... Lucy: "...It should have been me. I should have switched places with you..." *crying* atsushi:... (thinking: i want to comfort her....but it could be a trap...) -he edges closer to the door- Lucy: "Perhaps I should make you understand...AND TRAP YOU IN THIS ROOM FOREVER!" atsushi: i made it! *pulls out the key* White Coat: "Look out!" atsushi: ?? *A ribbon wraps around Atsushi, pulling him from the door* atsushi: !!!! *claws the ribbon off* ack! Lucy: "You lose!" Anne: *rushes at him with another ribbon attack* atsushi: !!! *throws a teddy at her and hides* ....ideas doc? o-o; White Coat: "M-Me?! Um, well, gee, I don't know...Except for one piece of advice..." atsushi: i can use just about anything right now sir. White Coat: "Game theory." atsushi:... what like the youtube channel? White Coat: "No, a philosophy: when you have an opponent who has everything to lose, beat them on the spot, so thoroughly, they can't fight back." atsushi: i think that makes sense... ok, i have an idea. we double team her! White Coat: ._. "M-Me?! But I'm just a physician--" Lucy: " 'Double,' eh? Good idea..." atsushi:.....why do i keep saying words?

[isakthedragon]

A Dragon Sized Adventure Chapter 39

Chapter 39: A Man’s Home is His Castle

*Crash and everyone else enter into Cortex's Terrarium, which seems to represent Cortex's lab and dimly lit castle.*

*The screen is black until someone (the cameraman) is heard saying "We're live in 3..., 2... ..." and the screen comes alive.*

Chick: "Welcome back, our most loyal viewers. Although we are still here on this spaceship, we are not alone. We are following the heroes through the rest of their journey to defeat, as they told us, a one Dr. Eggman and the already notorious Dr. Cortex."

Stew (Wearing cat ears): "Have you heard what that Dr. Eggman has done, Chicky-poo? He should be public enemy numero uno since he has been a threat to that hedgehog's world for years! From blowing up the moon to splitting the Earth, Dr. Cortex is weaksauce in comparison!"

Chick: "Well, let's listen in to what the heroes are going to do next."

*Camera cuts from Chick and Stew to Crash and the others.*

Sonic looks at the tapestries aligning the halls of the castle and does a barf face "Geez, your Dr. Cortex is mighty ugly, with that under bite and oversized head. Did a truck run over him?"

Coco: "I think you call it 'a face only a mother would love'."

Sonic jeers. "Yeah, if his mother was blind."

Shadow tries to steer them back on course. "So, this is his castle?"

Crash nods. "Along with his labs and dark basements too."

Von Clutch: "Mm, it looks exactly like what was in your video games, Crash. I feel like I know this place pretty well. Can me and Pasadena lead the way here?"

Crash: "Sure! Although, I don't see much worry. The lights are on."

*From what sounded like a loudspeaker, a voice could be heard. It was Cortex.*

Cortex laughs. "So, the lights make it easy, huh? Well, let's fix that."

*The loudspeaker shuts off as the lights all go out as well. Save for the lights from some of the lab area equipment and some moonlight, it was almost pitch black.*

Sonic: "Geez, it sure is dark now. I can't even see anything!" *Most of the others agree with Sonic, even when their eyes finally adjust to the darkness.*

Von Clutch: "Ah, mein time to shine! Mein rotes kybernetisches Auge lässt mich in der Dunkelheit sehen."

Spyro: "What did he say?"

Von Clutch: "I said: 'Mein red cybernetic eye lets me see in the darkness'. It can let me see even in the lowest of light. Just keep with me and Pasadena and we will get you guys through."

-----

Level 66: Advanced Darkness

Crates: 159

Time Trial

Sapphire: 2:00.00

Gold: 1:55.00

Platinum: 1:50.00

Ee-lectrics to Save: 5

Helping Partner: Crash

Beasts: Spiders: They fall from the ceiling to hog the path. Snakes: They pop for little holes to try and bite you. Bats: They fly in periodically in a hall to hog your jumping space.

Mutants: Voodoo Bunnies: "Precious Bandicoot, make soup!" Uka-Uka's dangerous servants that use their spears and dangerous rain dances to shock and poke you. Ee-lectric: An Eel + Basilisk hybrid that can control electricity. It can shoot it like lightning bolts to jumpstart anything electric, perfect for making light bulbs and generators work for a while.

Von Clutch: "Ah, it looks like our first outing is in the ruins below the castle, but someone has shut off all the torches, making it really dark in here."

At least there are more platforms than there were the last time, but it is still a  dangerous walk, what with all the rising and falling pillars and platforms all over the place. There are also some platforms that can only move if you hit a generator with a lightning bolt from a Ee-lectric. Around the halfway point, there are some invisible platforms with Wumpa fruit hovering over them that will lead the way to the last colored gem, the Blue Gem. A platform there will take you back to the main path. All in all, these ruins shouldn't be too difficult to traverse. 

Achievement Unlocked: Jaw-some

-----

Level 67: The Bandiclapper

Crates: 178

Time Trial

Sapphire: 2:10.00

Gold: 2:05.00

Platinum: 2:00.00

Ee-lectrics to Save: 5

Helping Partner: Coco

Beasts: Rats: They tend to walk down the narrow hallways to trip you up.

Von Clutch: "Oh, we are now in the dark halls of the castle. We better watch our step since I can see that some of the floor has rotted away. Keep light-footed, ja?"

The good news is that this place isn't as bottomless pit filled as last time, but the bad news is that the wood floors are weak and will collapse in some areas so hurry and jump away. Other than that, there are quite a lot more axes swinging about, so watch where you stand. The Ee-lectric are useful here since you can have them hit the lights or the generators strewn about the rest of the levels to charge the lights for about 10 seconds, if a light is hit, or a minute, if a generator is hit.

(Although, if you can go Super, you might be bright enough to get rid of the darkness. ;) )

Achievement Unlocked: Tripping into a Bottomless Pit

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Level 68: Darkened Machinery

Crates: 167

Time Trial

Sapphire: 2:05.00

Gold: 2:00.00

Platinum: 1:55.00

Ee-lectrics to Save: 5

Helping Partner: Tails

Machines: Crawlings: Weird robot things that go back and forth on walkways. Spiked Saucers: Little flying machines that fly around on their own business. Be careful to not touch those spikes and bodies. Camera Robots: They also tend to just float around, looking at you with their camera eye. It's not right to record, so spin them away.

Von Clutch: "Oh, those dummkompfs! When they shut off the power to make it dark to see, they accidently shut off all the machinery too!"

Indeed, in fact, nothing is working in the machinery area, not even the elevators, but that can be easily dealt with if you just hit them with a lightning bolt. All the cold and hot pipes are not working either. So, other than the danger of falling to your death, this place is just more long and tiresome.

Achievement Unlocked: Who Forgot to Pay the Electric Bill?

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Level 69: Thundered Walls

Crates: 185

Time Trial

Sapphire: 2:15.00

Gold: 2:10.00

Platinum: 2:05.00

Ee-lectrics to Save: 5

Helping Partner: Rouge

Badniks: Beaker Throwing Lab Assistant Pawns: Nothing really is notable about them, they just throw beakers off and on.

Beasts: Evil Hands: Whatever mutants these things are, they are clearly hankering for anything that walks by on the outside walls. Attack those hands away. Vultures (Gray): They just fly up and down in place. Best to use them as step stones across the pits.

Von Clutch: "Oh, my, it sure is raining heavily on the sides of the castle here. Better watch our footing."

The rain shouldn't make jumping that much harder, but you should still watch where you are going since a misstep is either a fall or meeting some spikes. Watch those moving platforms and the vultures to be able to make it across  the castle wall on this stormy night.

Achievement Unlocked: Slippery when Wet

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Level 70: The Electric Lab

Crates: 169

Time Trial

Sapphire: 1:55.00

Gold: 1:50.00

Platinum: 1:50.00

Ee-lectrics to Save: 5

Helping Partner: Crunch

Badniks: Electric Lab Assistant Pawns: They have lost some of their skin so they look quite Terminator-like. It also gave them an electric barrier that comes and goes. Knock them into pits to kill them for good.

Beasts: Blobs: Little yellow gelatin things that bounce down halls. Jump on top of them to defeat them.

Von Clutch: "Oho! We are in the labs now. We must be close to the end. Lets hurry! But we still need to watch our step, ja?"

Despite the loss of power, most of the electric generators are still working and discharging balls of electricity about, so watch your jumps for those. There are also doors and floors that move about when you hit ! boxes, so watch those well to get through them. You're almost done, so get to it!

Achievement Unlocked: No Shocking Developments

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*Upon their return, the lights in the terrarium turn back on. Unfortunately, Von Clutch, Pasadena and Crunch were teleported into one of the castle rooms as the door is locked behind them. It turns out they are in the generator room for the old Evolvo-Ray.*

Von Clutch: "Hoh? Where are we?"

Pasadena: "It aint familiar to me, that's for sure."

Crunch looks towards the ceiling. "Hey, isn't that-"

Uka-Uka appears in front of them. "The Evolvo-Ray? Yes, Crunch, you are correct."

Clutch fangirls again. "Ah! Are mien eyes deceiving me? It's the dangerous mask, Uka-Uka!"

Uka-Uka seemed confused. "I don't know who this Possum and cyborg are, but you got that right! I am the mighty Uka-Uka! Fear me!"

*Von Clutch kept fangirling, keeping Uka-Uka confused. Crunch and Pasadena's vision turned to the back of the room, where Aku-Aku was chained to the wall.*

Crunch: "Hey, it's Aku-Aku over there! We need to free him!"

Uka-Uka breaks away from his confusion. "Oh no you don't! If you want your precious mask back, you will have to fight me!"

Pasadena giggles at Uka-Uka's small size "Okay. Anyone got a barbecue grill?"

Uka-Uka starts flying toward the Evolvo-Ray. "It won't be that easy, you little Texan! Not until I use the Evolvo-Ray to make myself better!" *A blue  ray envelopes Uka-Uka, making him evolve with a whole body to attack us with.*

Boss: Uka-Uka

Von Clutch: "Hey, this seems oddly familiar. Don't we have to hit Uka-Uka hard enough until he is dazed and then control him?"

He is right. Attack Uka-Uka with your attacks and the mutants, avoiding his eye lasers and punches and kicks, until he collapses into a daze. That is your time to take control of him and force him to destroy a generator powering the Evolvo-Ray. Doing so will also break a chain that was wrapped around the generator, freeing Aku-Aku a bit. Uka-Uka will also throw you off of him, regaining control. Do this 2 more times to defeat Uka-Uka and save Aku-Aku.

Achievement Unlocked: Taming the Mask

*Destroying the last generator causes Uka-Uka to lose his new body and also awakens Aku-Aku from his deep sleep.*

Uka-Uka: "Damn it! I was supposed to win this time! No matter, it will be too late for you to do anything very soon..." *He disappears from the room as Aku-Aku flies to Crunch. The door behind them is unlocked.*

Von Clutch: "Ah! Is this vonderful or vhat? Ve have saved your spirit guide Aku-Aku!"

Pasadena: "Let's mosey along now, shall we?"

*Everyone comes together again and they leave the Terrarium.*

Death Head's Bridge

Cortex sighs. "See, didn't I say so? They beat him easily, like paper!"

Eggman is starting to get angry but tries to keep himself collected. "Cortex, you are really starting to make me think you aren't a real villain at all, with this defeated attitude of yours."

*Just then, The large pink egg known as N. Trance appears and hypnotizes both of them.*

N. Trance: "Oh, both of you stop acting like a bickering couple. I'll deal with those heroes. I just got to crack their minds first..." *And just as quick as he came, N. Trance left.*

Next Time: Can you survive the mind boggling adventure of the 5th Dimension Terrarium?