Fantasy Project ARK - In Character

[Reinhardt]

This thread will be used for IC scenarios involving both VF Operatives and LS Members.
Only participants with approved character sheets may post in this thread.​

POSTING GUIDELINES​

• Minimum post length would be a paragraph consisting of five or more sentences. One-liners will not be tolerated.
• Always include the character's name and their current location in your posts.
• If you are interacting with someone, or a number of people in a specific area, make sure to tag the players of these characters in your post.
• You are free to control and generate inconsequential NPCs. Alternatively, you may tag the GM for environmental interaction.
• You will be notified whenever dice or any similar RP mechanic will be utilized for a scenario.
• If you are uncertain about something, feel free to consult the GM.

 

[Reinhardt]

CHAPTER 0
P R O L O G U E​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

For any other district, it is merely another ordinary day that shall pass. But not for District Gael - despite the continuance of its regular routine, a notable change has occurred in the district, with the promise of more and greater ones to emerge in the coming days.

"Welcome to Gael, Remnants from other districts! Remember to keep your visitor IDs within your possession at all times. Secure your identification and inter-district visitation documents safe and secure. This public reminder is brought to you by..."​

An automated voice replays the same message over and over again at specific intervals, resonating from numerous government-owned PA systems scattered all over District Gael. In addition to this, posters and flyers bearing the District President's image and a welcoming message could be found from one street to another. Screens all over the district occasionally play out a commercial where the District President says a welcoming the visitors from other districts with a speech.

The reason behind such could be easily found on the front page of a newspaper, or even simply by browsing the ARKive, the most prominent social media platform in the entirety of ARK:

District Gael is temporarily easing up on its inter-border travel restrictions and has invited people from all over ARK to visit it to celebrate the 50th birthday of its leader, District President Marcus Gavid Augustia III, which would be held on the 30th of Quirtia, AE 47. A glorious bundle of festive activities will be held for the occasion, which begins on the 28th of Quirita, AE 47.​

Ambitious Remnants seeking to gain profit were quick to act upon hearing such news, which has consequentially inspired a great many to head onto District Gael and partake in its promised festivities, if not to take a chance at the district's treasure trove of opportunities. The great mass of people that desired to enter District Gael's borders for a myriad of agendas has caused an influx of inter-district affairs that exceeded the predictions of many researchers.

Fortunately, with the aid of numerous private companies, there were very few issues that surfaced, regarding the district's foreign affairs, specifically on the entry of non-natives.

Thanks to the glorious breakthroughs in the field of environmental Manatech, ARK is graced with vivid daylight, as morning turns to noon. Accompanying this luminosity is a slightly intensified heat that is present in all of ARK's districts, with the sole exception of District Glaikir due to its specialized weather conditions. Warm winds blow through the districts, marking the start of the day's second half.

The ever-busy workers of the district have begun to punch their cards for lunch, as numerous food outlets started to be filled by a mass of Remnants that surpassed its usual service count. People from varying origins and different walks of life fill the once spacious streets of District Gael, bringing a rather notable increase of activity to "the district that never sleeps".

The people's excitement for the promised festivities had become more evident as the promised days grew closer and closer. Three more days, some would say. It won't be long now, a few would mutter. The general populace awaits in anticipation - and only time can tell if their patience will bear a savory fruit or a terrible surprise.

Tag/s: Pilgrim59 , Elaeja , Huntertabbysandshark3 , Zufaix , AnonyMouse , Mqueserasera , StaidFoal , FabulousTrash , Spookyy- , Meryl_ya , Once , Silver Wolf

 

[Pilgrim59]

S. Kaplan
Whitehall Tower, Gael
FabulousTrash Huntertabbysandshark3 Meryl_ya ​

Vibrant chromas painted the busy streets of Gael. Anticipations were in order, even if such potency were unable to influence the cheers of the white-collared personnel that flooded out of Whitehall Tower. A round-the-clock busy skyscraper, with its attire refractive of the high sol by day, and its brilliance at night captivating the hearts of Gael's citizens. Whitehall's denizens came from all walks of life, their demeanors varied - from their preference of lunch to their method of transportation to the office and back. No matter what hand they were dealt, each must abide by the tempting offer of homemade casseroles to be complemented by another refill of their lukewarm coffee mug. By the end of the day, it mattered little what their pasts were, under the watchful eyes of their charismatic chief, their future meant something.

The voices began to fade, as the feline businessman found himself within a spacious room surrounded by glass windows. Seventy floors from the ground, reticent words being traded across from him. There existed a miniscule voice in the back of his head, a l'appel du vide. For the spanning horizon beyond his reach, it seemed like what he could do at the time. The man knew better, but did not deny the existence of such thoughts. After all, such dangerous thoughts kept him conscious in the ever-changing world. Before long, he finally gave into his decisions and compromised their discussion by sliding a folder towards the one he concurred with. The lifeless grey suits quickly arose in unison, at the behest of the Chairman's nonchalant gesture. He tapped his pen twice upon the fabrics of the parchments laid out before him. With the decision passed, there were little reasons for him to keep the board. The Chairman followed them out, and into a garden of cubicles and striding personnel. He let out a sigh, before a woman approached him with a set of files tucked between her arms. He took a distinctive file from her and gave her a grateful nod. As he passed, she tucked her locks of hair behind her ears and smiled.

The man fell into the comfort of his chair, having arrived at his floor and office. The file settled upon his digital desk, while he loosened his ascot. Where others were flushing out of Whitehall for a quick bite, the Chairman felt the need to stay busy. For every moment he remained idle, he would invite unwanted thoughts - a wound that he has yet to address since he returned from the Wall. Kaplan eyed the whiskey bottle across from him, but have yet to give into such temptations. He pinched his temples, and took a deep breath. His feline ears twitched rapidly, as a choir of pounding noises laid siege to his ears. The same scenes played over and over before him. Before long, he finally got up, and rolled up his sleeves. The white fabric unveiled a cerulean marking of his service - an eagle clutching a broadsword and an olive branch. An inscription upon the ribbon surrounded the bird - "Ab Ordine Libertas." A parting memoir of his time in service. Even now, he still believed in those words. But more importantly, he had a new purpose, and it came with corresponding responsibilities. Among those responsibilities were that of his schedules for the day.

The next thing on his buzzing personal digital device was as clear as day. The man spent some time in his office talking to his daughter, of whom had used her lunchtime to call Kaplan. Kaplan was glad that Mira have yet to grow out of it, nor did he want her to grow up too fast. Upon conclusion of their call, Kaplan smiled to himself slightly.

"She's just like you, Prim." he muttered to himself with a certain gloom in his eyes. A certain flashing light upon his digital desk distracted him from any further thoughts.

"Mr. Kaplan, Ms. Ilana is here to see you." announced the on-screen ID that reads ''Lobby-1.''

"Thank you. I'll be with her shortly." Kaplan replied, as he fitted into his jacket swiftly. His ARKA tattoo hidden once again beneath his dark jacket.

It seemed as if he had little time for respite. The irony being a Chairman with little time to sit down in his own chair. Such was his life, and he had learnt to cope with it. Neither perceived as a nuisance nor a unwarranted obligation, Kaplan took his time to present himself proper. After all, they had much to discuss for the upcoming festival and the District President's birthday celebration. Inadvertently, Kaplan's presence was expected, as was Tritical Industries. After all, being a part of the upper circle had its merits and demands. A little publicity to the enterprise and perhaps an exclusive for future business opportunities. Surely, the President's request for Kaplan's endorsement was also anticipated in return. Such was the nature of politics and business. It mattered little to Kaplan, as power often finds a place to rest its head. The only thing that keeps him awake at night is the uncertain fate of brewing chaos. This nightmare came about ten years ago. A nightmare that eventually became his zeal to keep the peace. With Roseya's aid, perhaps he could realize those ambitions. A far-reached objective, but nonetheless a justified mission.

As Kaplan exited his office, he then shifted his attention towards a certain figure waiting for him.

"Bilfin. I don't suppose you would like to accompany me for lunch with Ms. Ilana?" Kaplan said to his security attendant, acknowledging the fact that he just cannot seem to shake him off. Such a terrifying ability to somehow be there for Kaplan's next sortie outside of Whitehall. Having accepted that fact, Kaplan simply sighed to himself and waved the man to come along with him towards the elevator.

At the same time, Kaplan messaged his Field Technical Advisor, of whom was recently cleared of their debt in return for their service at Tritical. The Chairman took an interest in the young lady for their exceptional skills, but more importantly as a reminder of his ultimate ambition to brush away the cobwebs of ARK. His finger ran by his PDA with speed. The message finally sent as the elevator doors closed.

"Lunch at Sky Garden. Meet in lobby. Five minutes."

"They're setting up quite a carnival down Lucani Boulevard. Here, take little Al to it on the Twenty-Eighth." Kaplan said to Bilfin, before handing him two premium admission cards.

 

[Meryl_ya]

RONIV
- LOG_00 -​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

From one of the many clear, ever-so-spotless windows, Roniv was staring ahead at a bustling plaza not far from her workplace. It, the plaza, is vivid, as shown from the amounts of holographic ads, with some of them occasionally changing it into the face of the District Gael's President. It is also lively, with how the monument in the middle is almost swarmed by a sea of people.

"It will be even more so when the 28th arrives."

Roniv swivels her chair and sees one of her co-workers, Mandal, a type-B of a bear origin, beside her. His considerably taller frame bends slightly to the window as his eyes point to the same plaza. It has then dawned on her that he has gotten an ear on her "praying" session. "By the way, are you not going to have lunch, Ms. Roniv?"

"I guess not, Mr. Mandal, there are many things I have to catch up with." Roniv reasons, her tone slightly pensive as she does so. Though that, as she notes, doesn't deter Mandal.

"No need to be uptight. I can take you around, too." he insists.

"That's nice of you, but, maybe next-" grooowl~, "-time,"

And so, there they are, traversing around the plaza, maneuvering between people as they search for a place to eat. Of course, almost every restaurant that's near is already full, either by other company employees or visitors, and Mandal is quick to discard Tritical's cafeteria as an option.

Roniv, while walking, is also reading the memo -of what she needs to do- on her smartphone, a humble device that's provided for every Tritical's employee that doesn't have one--which, to Roniv's knowledge, is herself only. She knows it's rather careless, so she makes sure to take a check on the road ahead every one sentence she finishes.

A beep shifts her focus to the recent notification of a message from her boss. 'Lunch at Sky Garden. Meet in Lobby. Five minutes.', it says. At that, Roniv mutters a small "Oh." and is about to tell Mandal that she'll have to return, only to find that he is nowhere to be found.

"Mr. Mandal?"

When she receives no answer, she tries again, only to be made sure that she has, with certainty, lost him.

Or is it more of he lost her?

"...crap."

Roniv puts down her smartphone, opting to cool her head down. Due to her stature, it would be unthought of if she searches for him. There is also no contact of him, only her boss. And Kaplan literary paid her debt so naturally, he would be of more importance, no?

Her train of thoughts comes to an end, and her choice of action is to leave Mandal behind.

Tag/s:

_000​

 

[AnonyMouse]

V a e t r i x​

LOCATION: DISTRICT ZERO​

DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47

4:47AM. Lee Brooks hustled across a mostly-empty street toward the familiar structure of Service Hub 6-C, with a thermos of lukewarm coffee in one hand and his lunch pail in the other. His pace slowed as he met the wall of grey clad servicemen clustered around the entrance, bleeding through the doors single file.

Although this was only his second week on the job, Lee had never seen Hub 6-C so busy. He had never seen a line here, let alone a proper crowd. He nervously checked his watch, eyes darting left and right, pausing every few seconds to adjust the way his hat perched atop his floppy dog ears. After what seemed like an eternity, he was finally inside, and punched the time clock at 4:56. Not as early as he wanted to be, but it would do.

He followed the marching sea of grey jumpsuits into the next room, where an entire wall was dominated by a massive screen with name and job assignments. He had never seen the job board so full. Usually only a handful of service crews worked from this hub. On any given day, he would see maybe two dozen names, at best. Today, the list was so long, it scrolled. He waited nearly a full minute for his assigned group to appear:

L. BROOKS___R. SCHMIDT___V. SOLAIS

UNIT 6C-101

TASK ID 98375

“Oi, Lee! Ay, kid, over here!” a deep, yet familiar voice bellowed out. Lee rose to his tippy toes to see a thick hand waving above the sea of heads, and waded through the crowd toward it, tightly clutching his lunch pail and thermos of coffee as he went.

Roy Schmidt greeted him with a bright smile peeking through his graying beard. He was a large Type A, a veteran technician, with nearly ten years of experience. His pot belly strained at the buttons of his wrinkled grey jump suit while he stood with his lunch tucked under his arm in a crumpled paper bag. As Lee approached, he gulped a final sip of black coffee from a foam cup before tossing it in the nearest trashbin and giving the kid a hearty clap on the shoulder.

“I woulda whistled to git yer attention, but HR’s already on my ass,” the big man said as he led his young trainee away from the press of the crowd. “Anyway, hope you like overtime, kid! This week’s gonna be wild.”

“Yeah…” Lee said, more than a little overwhelmed. “What is all this?”

“Gael’s got some stupid shit goin’ down this weekend, somebody’s birthday or some such, I dunno,” Roy said with a shrug. “All I know is, more work for us. A lot of ain’t-brokes need fixin.’ Check this out,” he said, as he revealed an electronic tablet. On its screen was a list of service requests with everything from leaking water pipes to out-of-spec veracite conduits and fire hydrants overdue for inspection. Lee’s face paled as Roy began to scroll and scroll and scroll and…

“We gotta do all that this week!?” Lee exclaimed.

“That’s just today,” Roy laughed as he tucked the datapad back into his pocket. “Oh, and it gets better! Jim’s got some kinda stomach bug and is probably gonna be out the whole week.”

“Yeah… I was wondering what was up with the change,” Lee pondered. “I thought we made a pretty good team last week. Who’s this ‘V. Solais’ guy?’”

Roy’s brows rose. “Eh? I thought you two knew each other.”

“Why would you think that?” Lee said, confused.

“’Cuz she’s right behind you.”

Lee stopped in his tracks and abruptly turned to see the third member of their party, a female Type B, with a laptop tucked under her arm. At least, he assumed she was a Type B because of the feathered plumage adorning her head and her hawkish eyes, which, even now, were staring into his soul with an intensity that sent a chill down his spine. Her uniform was clean, orderly, every crease in its proper place, and her name tag was printed, not scribbled on with a marker like the rest of these plebs. Although he didn’t visibly flinch, she frightened him, more than a person too short to ride a rollercoaster should.

However, she did not stop. She continued walking, with her eyes locked on his, until she overtook them both, with the steady, confident stride of someone who knew exactly where she was going, what she would do when she got there, and they could either keep up or fuck off.

Unfortunately, he was paid by the hour, so fucking off wasn’t an option. “Uh… hey… I mean, ‘hi,’” Lee said to her back as he resumed following.

“Good morning, Lee Jackson Brooks, employee ID 1116459,” she said, without stopping, her tone cold and monotonous, like an automated machine. “Vaetrix Solais, 1236547. I see you are already acquainted with 1001872.”

“Oh, you mean Roy? Yeah, he-”

“Good. We have much to do and little time to do it,” bird-girl said as she led them toward the garage. “I have already taken the liberty of arranging today’s work assignments into an order which will maximize our chances of success. Check your device. I believe, if we follow this itinerary, we have a high likelihood of finishing ahead of schedule.”

“So much for overtime…” Roy grumbled under his breath.

As he followed, Lee retrieved his datapad and began to take a closer look at what they would be getting into today. Like she said, everything was arranged by location, which was definitely not how things normally looked. Usually the work assignments were loaded at random and the teams had to figure it out themselves. He didn't even know the device had a 'sort' function. Wait... it didn't. How the hell did she...

But, the more he looked, Lee began to notice something else odd.

“Ummm, ma’am-”

“Vaetrix is fine,” she said.

“There must be some mistake,” he said and she abruptly stopped. For a moment, he thought he’d offended her, but he quickly realized she had stopped because they’d arrived at their assigned service truck. “Some of these jobs are in Gael? Isn’t that out of our jurisdiction?”

She tilted her head to the side, like a bird. “We are civil servants serving ARK’s government,” Vaetrix said, with the cold, hard edge of righteousness. “Jurisdiction? No…. We go wherever the problem is. And we fix it.” Gods, her stare made his skin crawl. “Gael has problems, too… does it not?”

The awkward silence was killing him. Fortunately, Roy broke the ice. “Field trip! I’m drivin,’” he declared with a jovial smile.

Vaetrix tossed him the keys and gestured to the truck with a flourish: “After you, Mr. Brooks."

 

[Spookyy-]

Hana
At a Certain Plaza in District Gael...

​

The wind howls through the streets of District Gael, each whisper swirling throughout the air before getting lost in all of the oncoming commotion. Market stalls began to litter the streets, the sound of rubber soles on concrete hastily dumping more of them out in the open. Banners were raised to celebrate the birthday of its very own President-- because no matter the time, place, or era, self-aggrandizement seems to always be in style. For Hana though, it was just another day doing more menial tasks as she zipped on back and forth by the speed of her Regalia. The accursed power she was granted coursing through her veins and vessels as she encumbered the herculean task of filling the entire square up all by her lonesome.

She stacked and carried brown boxes all on her head, darting from stall to stall placing them down in order, before looping back to opening whatever was inside and hastily putting up banners and signs. The little gusts of wind that followed each of her steps had ruffled open lighter boxes filled with flowers and confetti, all being tossed up in the air like a mini-tornado. It was an impressive whirlwind that caught the awe and attention of others. What she tossed up in the air might as well be fireworks, given the amount of sparks created in their eyes.

From an outside perspective, one might think that this little storm of colors was pretty and exciting-- just the little extra "something" that would brighten one's day. For a businessman, it was certainly a waste-- all that product being sauced up in the city skyline, just flutter to the ground to be trampled upon later. Hana was certainly not being paid by onlookers for what she was doing.
As she bowed and waved to a cheering crowd behind the sectioned off barriers of the streets, such cheerful emotions could only be rivaled by the indignant disdain held by her sole supervisor.

"What the hell do you think this is, some sorta variety show?" the tall, lanky bespectacled fellow huffed.
"This one seems skimpy... are you still going to eat him?" the soul of the sword she carried eyed up the man talking down on them.
"No, I'm not here to do that kinda thing," the swordswoman replied.
"Then what are you goofing off for!?" confused at red-head's own words, baffled by the blank stare that he was looking at.
"Then why keep yourself occupied so? Isn't there more exciting things to do? Come on--"
"I'm definitely not in it for the money..." she turned her back towards him, beginning to drift away from the mess she made.
"You can't just leave now! This is supposed to be a job for twenty! You said you could do it as one!" the man clutched his clipboard, snapping it in twain in a fit of rage.

. . .

"His anger was paltry, a light snack at best. Don't tell me this was all you came here for?"
"No, dear companion. He was simply the excuse."
"This again? I'm surprised-- you're trying to edge off that see-food diet, eh?"
"No thanks to you."

. . .

Hana, robbed of her sense of taste by the same sword that she carried, set off on her real objective. Legends have it that there is a food so delicious and delectable, so buttery and sweet that it brings sparks and joy to all those who take part of it. It is supposedly the pinnacle of all meats, to be only prepared by masters who have dedicated ever fiber of their being in the preparation and presentation of such a dish. And supposedly, the most legendary and esteemed chef that specialized in just what she craves, has been attracted to the festivities going on in District Gael. Flyers and posters were posted all throughout the ARK about his coming, even reaching the scarce District Zero.

But of course, while other people wanted to try this dish out for the sake of leisure and self-indulgence, Hana had her own medicinal reasons for it-- and she wasn't going to wait around in line like a pathetic foodie, no- she was a hunter in need of a fine meal. If anything, she is going to take what she wants, by any means necessary. And that means jumping the line a bit too early-- or at worst, taking him out of the picture permanently so that his busy schedule will suddenly clear up.

She clutched her visitors pass in District Gael, looking down at the temporary ID they gave her, furrowing her brow-- before shaking her head and putting it in her back pocket. With a running start, she began to waltz through the streets of District Gael- trying to catch a wisp of gossip that could be a clue or hint to where her target could be. She passed street after street, gleaning nothing but more flyers and passing mentions of the mystery figure in question. The spirit of the sword back-seating and taunting her throughout the course of her search-- mentioning how she'll just tire herself out if all she does it dance and dart through every nook and cranny to find this man.

"Perhaps this will be more exciting...
Finally-- after that putrid week that you call 'abstinence,'
Hunting season is back once more.

Succeed or fail, it doesn't matter.
You'll be taking something from another person in the end.
Isn't this great? You're finding a solution to your problem by creating another--"

She wanted to lash out back at the constant nagging and sass her own blade gives to her. Yet- whatever anger she feels seems to dissipate into mist, only to be followed by the laughter of that same red spirit. There were times though, that with enough provocation-- that rise of emotions causes a larger amount of mana to circle around through her and the sword, which her body can't necessarily handle-- causing a painful paralysis while she involuntarily diverts her own energy to letting the mana pass through. Forced to stand still on the middle of the street, she clutches her sword arm-- hoping that nobody would just so happen to run into her.

​

​

 

[Huntertabbysandshark3]

Haldir Bilfin
interactions: Pilgrim59​

Despite all the festive air and addtional excitement brought on by the gael district presidents for one remnant in particular the additions of many thousands of new bodies to Gael for this occasion only served to put them on edge, Haldir Bilfin, that last name meaning only one thing he worked security detail for a influential individual within Gael, thusly being a sort of statue symbol.

The morning routine remained the same as they always had despite increase in people. Waking up early doning his signature black and green uniform. Before waking Almer up and spending some time with his son why getting breakfast prepared, Haldir job ment such time in the morning was rather precious but he was grateful that his employer understood his situation most personally. Afterwards he'd drop Almer off at school before driving to work, Whitehall Tower, for Haldir's employer and close friend was none other then the chairman of Tritical Industries, Sayre Kaplan. The usual stream of white collar workers filed in for their daily grind the massive and grandly imposing Haldir given room to walk through the crowb all of them either know who he was or just scared to get in his way.
-----------------------------------------------------------
The day trudged along as it normally did checking the time on his watch it was about lunch meaning Kaplan would certainly have somewhere to be. Taking up a position just outside kaplan's office it was only a few moment larger that the man himself emerged. "Of course I'd join you sir thank you for the offer though id be there all the same anyway" haldir replied falling in besides kaplan as the man kept walking towards the elevator haldir was in for small surprise the go-ahead for a day off. A genuine smile forming in the remenats face as he pocketed the passes "thank you sir I'm sure almer will appreciate it, I'll arrange for a replacement for the day unless of course you'd intending on taking the day off to?" Haldir asked his tone less profession, talking to Kaplan as a friend more then an employer

 

[FabulousTrash]

Roseya Ilana
LOCATION: District Gael, Whitehall Tower Lobby
DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47

Interactions/Mentions: Pilgrim59 Huntertabbysandshark3


Today would've been any normal day.

Roseya sat in the backseat of the car, staring out the window as she watched the scenery pass by. Earlier, she had her usual meeting with the branch leaders within the R&D department to check in on ongoing work and other matters. However, when she would normally retire to her office or personally see some of these projects, her schedule had other plans instead.

The car slowed to a stop as it approached the inter-district checkpoint. Her ears slightly twitched as Roseya listened to her driver talk to border officer, showing them the necessary documents. Moments later, the car began to move forward again, entering District Gael.

Thankfully, it was lunch time and she would get to spend it with Sayre Kaplan, chairman of Tritical Industries, fellow operative and close friend of hers. Most likely his personal security Bilfin would be with him as well, which was no trouble. Though she would've preferred to keep things more casual, work was a constant in their lives and there was no rest for the weary. Plus, Roseya knew that eventually Kaplan would have to depart and participate in the district celebrations for business publicity. It was a predictable situation, but also the fact that Roseya was stuck in the same boat. Being the R&D Director of Valkyrion, Roseya has made public appearances a fair amount to announce new technologies that the firm had developed for public use, as well as military. Many Remnants began to associate her as the face of the firm and her superiors picked up on it quick. Roseya didn't complain, but it did make work a lot more difficult at times. It was nothing she couldn't handle, though.

The drive to Whitehall Tower wasn't long from the border. Before Roseya could mindlessly think any further, her phone buzzed. Her eyes glanced down to the screen to see that one of the branch directors had sent her project files that required approval to be put into manufacturing. Her fingers tapped a few things on the screen, activating the phone's holographic project as Roseya examined the models.

[...]

"We've arrived, Director."

Roseya glanced up from her phone, seeing her driver turned back to face her. The car was parked on the side of the road that led into the front courtyard and the entrance to the tower. Roseya nodded in acknowledgement, shutting her phone off and pocketing it as the driver got out, walking to her door and opening it. She stepped out of the car, stretching slightly before stepping out of the way so that the car door could close. She was dressed in her work uniform, a white and black coat with red belt across her chest and hip to signify the department she belonged to. Normally she would have her ID clipped to the top of her uniform, but she opted to keep it in her pocket for now. She looked towards her driver.

"Thank you. I'll call when I need you again."
"Of course. Enjoy your lunch."

With that, the driver got back into the car and drove off, leaving Roseya on her own. She quickly walked through the courtyard to the front entrance and along the way, picked up some glances here and there. She wasn't bothered by it anymore, though her first few visits to Tritical's Administrative building were a bit daunting.

Roseya walked up to the reception desk, waiting in a short line before stepping up. Behind it was a young Type-A woman, typing away at a keyboard and had a headset on her head. They looked up at Roseya and smiled.

"Welcome to Tritical Industries. How can I help?"
"I'm here to see Mr. Kaplan. Ilana is the name."

The woman took a look at her screen, then promptly nodded, speaking into her headset.

"Mr Kaplan, Ms. Ilana is here to see you."

She then gestured to the nearby seats, addressing Roseya.

"He'll be down shortly. Please have a seat in the meantime."

Roseya nodded, turning and paced over to the indicated seats. The lobby wasn't busy, but there was still a fair amount of people hanging around. She chose a relatively empty spot, sitting down and looked around the lobby. Some of Valkryion's buildings, including the ones she normally worked in, were designed with the intention to be closed off to the public, so seeing such a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere was a nice change. It never got old for her.

Patiently, Roseya waited.

 

[StaidFoal]

Cedrix Drixton

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

INTERACTIONS: Open
​

Two screams erupted in the middle of the teeming pavement. One of a rushing, Type-A businesswoman running late to some meeting. The other, a small and slim Type-D boy in loose, black sleeves and a greyed shirt. Cedrix Drixton twirled around most of the eager passersby today. But this woman just happened to be before an unfortunate stumble on his part. Inertia from sliding past another person brought his leg behind the other as he sped forward, tripping into her. The two collapsed like dominos, the boy accidentally taking the taller woman in a hug and landing with his hands near her pockets. Immediately, he recoiled back, dropping to his knees in an apologetic stance. "I-I'm so sorry!" he cried. His hand swayed next to his own pocket before he planted his fists before him in a slight bow.

The woman, who'd nearly suffered a heart attack in the momentary confusion, hurriedly scrambled to her feet, keeping her eyes on the boy. Anger flared up first, clashing her teeth and twisting her already strained face. Then she took a breath. Despite his bushy hair covering most of the top of his head, she made out the pointed ears. Type-D? Or just a really short C? I can't ever tell these things apart... "Right, sure, sure, it's fine," she hastily spat, gathering her scattered belongings.

Cedrix tilted his head, mouth twisted in an uninterested V-shape. He extended a hand towards one of her items. "Do you need me to hel—"

The woman wordlessly swatted his hand away, reaching for her phone which suddenly rang. She walked around the kneeling Cedrix, putting the device to her ear. "Yes! I'm sorry, but I'm—No, you don't need to send in a substitute! I'm trying to—I am running there now!" Without even a concerned glance at the boy, she disappeared through the shifting crowd.

Cedrix stayed frozen with his mouth fused shut for a time, then breaking the weld with a sigh. He rose to his feet, swiping the dust off his clothing. He ran off to the side, perpendicular to the general flow of the influxes of people. Cedrix vanished down a short alleyway, scurrying behind a dumpster, where he mustered all his strength to slightly budge it from the wall. With the creak of its wheel, underneath revealed a tied pouch. And behold, the only consistent trick in the book. Cedrix rummaged through his pocket, unveiling the woman's wallet, complete with her ID and stashed with Credits. Enough for a one-person meal. Works every time.

Cedrix opened the pouch, where dozens more wallets lay piled. He lopped the businesswoman's in; another straw to the haystack. "22!" he proudly remarked to himself, tightening the satchel. "Your mistake, Naylia!" Cedrix planted his hands on his hips, smugly imagining the end of today. "Your pretty princess smile is gonna become a pretty princess ugly-pout when you see how much you lose this bet!" Stuffing it behind the dumpster, he ran in front of it to slam his body against the metal—rattling his head for seconds at a time—in order to push it to the wall again. If Meira took any longer with whatever business she had in Gael, he would have had to consider finding another sack for more wallets and trinkets.

Cedrix darted back into the packed streets, worming around at waist-height of the general populace. He needled through the morphing gaps between everyone, scanning their figures and how they walked. How it must have been, he occasionally wondered, to live in warm, cozy apartments within District Gael. To don clean, floral scented clothing for each day of the month. It was curiosity that replaced whatever envy he may have had; he couldn't have even pictured what they felt like. More or less being rich enough to round up almost all of ARK to celebrate themselves.

Eventually, he laid glance on a figure—he didn't get that well of a look at them, deciding on a whim to make them his next victim. He zoomed through the bystanders until they came within arm's reach. Then, he threw a leg behind his other, toppling forward and into them. For 23rd time today, there was another crash.

 

[Zufaix]

Y U L I A​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

The gathering of festival goers, the vibrant colors, the smells of fresh food... The few times Yulia had been to Gael, it had never seemed so bright and upbeat. Her eyes fluttered around to a multitude of sights before a sharp pain on the back of her head refocused her attention behind her.

"Ow! Hey Naoki, what was that for?!" There stood a young Type-A man with well kept black hair parted to one side, dressed in a pair of cargo shorts, and a v-neck shirt that looked like it'd been through the mana-tech wash a few too many times. Yulia rubbed the back of her head where her hair had been pulled prior. She glared daggers at the young man while he spoke.

"Why don't you help me and Mr. Mihara unload this stuff before you start deciding to run off toward the party?" The tone of his voice was that of an adult chastising a child. He thumbed over toward a van full of materials needed to set up a booth, as well as a few cases of glass bottles. She patted down her floral patterned sundress and spoke again.

"Come on now, you know I wouldn't leave when there's work to do. It's just... I wasn't expecting it to be this festive, y'know? This president must really think a lot of himself to have the entire district throw a party for him." Her hands wrapped around her silvery blue hair as she began pulling it into a loose ponytail before walking around to the back of the van doors along with Naoki. Luckily the district had specific parking for vendors within walking distance of the main plaza where the brunt of the party would be held, so they didn't need to walk far to set everything up.

"Well either way it works for us, the more people trying this stuff the better." He pulled one of the glass bottles out of the case and lightly swirled it around. The light amber hue of the liquid inside seemed to almost shine in the mid-day sun. He gently placed the bottle back in the case before heading off towards their designated lot. Yulia reached into the van and began to grab her own case to start walking it toward the lot until an older man with a ornately carved wooden cane stopped in front of her. His wispy white remains of hair framed against the face with a constant gentle smile was all too familiar to her.

"Ah! Sorry Mr. Mihara, I hope I didn't run into you... Is everything okay?" She responded back with her own smile.

"Oh no, you're fine Yulia, I was just coming to help move some of those boxes." His voice was soft and hoarse as he spoke.

"Oh, come on now, there's no need for that... why don't you go ahead and head to the lot and make sure Naoki doesn't accidentally drop any of those bottles. The last thing we want is to clean up sake off the side of the road. I can get this, no worries." She matched his gentle voice with her own and began escorting him to the lot.

After some time passes, the three of them eventually manage to have everything set up before the huge crowds began to show up. Looking across the canopy, an image of the petal of an Ixia tree is shown with the name "Petal" strewn across the front, along with two tables underneath and a handful of glass bottles laid out across them with labels for each one. A sign on top of the leftmost table reads: "Ixian brewed Sake from Mihara Brewery, XXX credits for taste testing. Please fill out survey."

As interested patrons begin making their way in, both Yulia and Naoki fall into line and begin attending to the various needs of their guests, pouring samples, taking payments, and explaining the different types of sake available, whilst Mr. Mihara watches with a gentle smile from behind both of them.

 

[AnonyMouse]

V a e t r i x​

LOCATION: DISTRICT ZERO & GAEL​

DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47

8:22AM, SOMEWHERE IN DISTRICT ZERO​

“This is actually going pretty well,” Lee said as he gathered up his tools after another job well done. He paused to check his watch. “We’re about halfway through the job list and it’s not even nine o’clock yet.”

Roy simply chuckled, as he finished tightening the last bolt on an access panel, putting everything back how they had found it. “Yeah…” he said dryly.

“But don’t you think it’s weird…” Lee went on to say. “Every job we go to, she goes off on her own. I thought the whole point of the three-man system is to stick together? Safety in numbers. Zero’s dangerous, ya know.”

Again, Roy simply chuckled. “Zero’s dangerous because of the people who live in it, kid.”

“And the breaches,” Lee added.

“Riiiight… if you say so,” Roy replied. “Anyway, I think she can take care of herself.”

Lee stood and shouldered his tool bag. “I just think it’s weird, that’s all. I feel like she’s shutting us out. We’re supposed to be a team.”

“Mhm. The sexual tension is so thick I can cut it with a rusty spoon,” Roy said, doubling over with laughter.

“I can see why HR loves you,” Lee said sourly. He sighed. “Look, man, it ain’t like that. I’m just trying to do my job and I think we’d do it better as a team. I wanna know my teammates better.”

He was about to head back to the truck, when Roy gripped him by the shoulders and looked him in the eyes. The old fella was usually all laughs and jokes, but his face was deadly serious as he spoke:

“Kid, a word of advice,” Roy said. “I’ve lived in Zero my whole life. Probably gonna die in it, someday. I’ve seen all types of folks, the good the bad and everything in between. Just last week, there was a murder here,” he said, gesturing to the area around them. “Guy was chopped to bits. They say his guts were dangling from that light post, right there.” He pointed across the street.

“Bullshit…” Lee muttered under his breath.

“She ate most of him. Red-haired chick. The Terror. At least, that’s what I heard,” Roy went on to say. My point is, there’s one thing I learned early on and you’ll learn it too if you hang around the DZ long enough,” he said, holding up a single finger. “Don’t ask anybody why they’re here. Don’t ask why they are the way they are. And don’t ask what they can do.”

“W-why?” Lee said, his voice hesitant. “Aren’t you at least a little bit curi-”

“Because they might show you,” Roy said as he released him. He slapped Lee on the abdomen. “And I don’t wanna see your guts hanging from the streetlights, kiddo. Knowin’ my luck, they’ll call me to clean it up!” He laughed.

9:41AM, DRIVING THROUGH DISTRICT ZERO​

“Good call, V,” Roy said as he guided the truck down one of Zero’s many roads. “Going to that junction box saved us a lot of time.”

“Thank you,” Vaetrix said, from her place in the back seat where she watched the dim city lights roll by.

“There were five different service calls about power surges,” Lee said. “Who would’ve thought swapping out one veracite coupler would solve it all.”

“Five birds, one stone,” Roy said with a grin. “No offense.”

“None taken. I believe in solving problems at the source,” Vaetrix said, dispassionately. “The people who designed this city’s power grid have a troubling habit of routing multiple subsystems through a single coupler, and then using amplifiers to boost the mana density. It causes the couplers to burn out prematurely. Most technicians will go for the amps first, but that will only solve the problem for a little while. The proper solution is clear, once you understand what the city planners were thinking.”

This was probably more words than she had said all day. Despite Roy giving him a warning glance, Lee went in: “You should speak up more. Working with Roy is great and all, but I could learn a lot from you, too,” he said, turning in his seat to face her.

She didn’t give him the death glare this time and instead continued to stare out the window as they rolled through a run-down apartment block, which was said to be home to a religious cult. Le didn’t know much about that place, other than to stay away from it and clutch your wallet tight if you have to go near it.

“It’s too quiet,” Vaetrix said, her voice barely above a whisper, as her eyes studied the dilapidated structure for any signs of activity. “What are those kids up to…”

“Come again?” Lee asked as their service truck rolled by. He felt a little better having that place in the rear view mirror.

“Nothing,” she said, sitting up a little straighter and giving him her attention properly. “I will try to be more forthcoming with my knowledge in the future, if it will make us a better ‘team.’”

“Thanks,” Lee said with a smile. “I’d appreciate that.”

10:48AM, NEAR THE ZERO-GAEL BORDER​

“So, what’re you guys thinkin’ for lunch?” Roy said, calmly leaning on a concrete wall. “It’s about that time.”

“You both brought your lunches,” Vaetrix replied, from a dark hole in the wall. “22mm, please.” Her outstretched hand appeared from the void.

“I’m a growing boy and sometimes I like to mix it up,” Roy said as he retrieved a 22mm wrench from his tool belt and handed it to Lee, who was holding a flashlight while Vaetrix worked.

“So true. Eating the same thing every day is getting boring,” Lee said as he handed the tool to Vaetrix.

“I do not partake. Stopping for meals is inefficient,” she said as she disappeared back into the hole. “However, if you two wish to go somewhere, that is acceptable. We are ahead of schedule, after all. I will even accompany you, as a teambuilding exercise.”

“I can’t tell if she really means that or is making a joke,” Lee whispered to Roy.

“Joke... I think,” Roy replied.

“I have downloaded the necessary programming to engage in humor,” Vaetrix replied, even more monotone and robotic than usual. “Perhaps you should update the drivers on your sarcasm detector.”

“I liked her better when she didn’t talk,” Roy teased.

“How about we eat somewhere in Gael?” Lee said, cheerfully changing the subject.

12:05PM, SOMEWHERE IN GAEL​

Tall buildings. Massive crowds. Bright lights. Bustling city streets. This was nothing like District Zero. The three service technicians walked down Gael’s busy sidewalks and plazas. They would probably not look out of place, if not for Lee, who swaggered down the concrete, looking all around himself in child-like wonder. So many sights and sounds. He was clearly overwhelmed and intrigued at the same time. A typical tourist.

“Look at him,” Roy mused. “He’s like a kid in a candy store.”

“I was thinking ‘deer in the headlights,’” Vaetrix said, which earned a slight chuckle from the older man, but her tone was dead serious.

“Ay, kid. Pick a place already,” Roy called out, tapping his watch. “We’re on the clock.”

Lee slowed for them to catch up. “I don’t even know where to start. What do you recommend?” he said eagerly.

“A bar… but that ain’t gonna happen,” Roy replied, which sparked a small debate.

While the two of them discussed lunch arrangements, Vaetrix stood by, silently vigilant. She didn’t like crowds, especially not while tethered to these two. Her eyes darted through the moving bodies. She could’ve sworn she saw a tuft of familiar red hair traveling along the outskirts. Couldn’t be, she thought. Not here, of all places. Her attention was only diverted for a moment, but a moment was all it took…

A small boy dressed in black robes collided with Lee and they both toppled over. “Oh! Sorry, sorry,” the dog-eared type B said as he quickly got to his feet and offered a hand to the boy, who Vaetrix could see was a type D.

It seems all the riff raff is bleeding into Gael today, she thought. She knew this one. She knew where he was from and what he did to get by. Although they had never met face-to-face, she knew what he could do… and what he was probably trying to do right now. Yet, she said nothing. Lee was here to learn, after all. He had practically begged her to teach him. Perhaps this would be an important lesson for him.

But before the show could begin, they were interrupted by the sound of screeching tires and honking horns, followed by the crunch of metal as one car rear-ended another and a third vehicle veered to the side to avoid joining the pile-up. A car accident, in Gael? Happens all the time. In other news, the sun rose this morning. Vaetrix would have thought nothing of it until she neard the murmurings among the crowd. Something about, "she's just standing there, in the street," and "why won't she move," "does that crazy redhead have a deathwish?"

Vaetrix mounted a nearby fire hydrant to see over the heads. Her mood immediately soured. "Dammit, I knew it," she muttered, not simply because it was Hana standing in the intersection, at the center of the chaos, but because a taxi had sideswiped their service truck, which was parked on the side of the road. The taxi sped off, leaving a broken mirror and lots of glass in its wake. Even now, the traffic was starting to flow around the girl and the other two damaged vehicles, as if she was nothing more than a piece of trash in the street. The city always finds a way.

StaidFoal Spookyy-​

 

[Silver Wolf]

Spoiler: Appearance

Aleina "Redleaf" Goldbloom
Location: District Gael
Interactions/Mentions: Yulia ( Zufaix )
​

As the displays drolled on for the thousandth time, Aleina felt old memories bubble up. The grandeur the president of Gael was trying to put in was evident. Public relations was all well and good, but this just put a sour taste in her mouth. The man was idolizing himself. It reminded her of how, back in Sildrynn, people would be so excited over a royal birthday or other event. Her grandmother would go all out for those days, but not because of the family. No, her grandmother had some kind of feverish worship of the royal family. Aleina enjoyed the treats with everyone else, but they always had a connection to the queen or something. Now, fourteen years after leaving Sildrynn, she was reminded for the first time about such sickening things. Though, that would have to stay hidden for now. It wasn't uncommon for Aleina to receive attention when she was at a large event, but it was rather discomforting how many people did stare this time around. The festivities hadn't started yet, and here was Ixia's champion archer, the woman who had come closest to beating Sildrynn in years.

Aleina didn't expect anything to go horribly wrong, hence her choice to forgo carrying her mechanical crossbow and wear a pleasant kimono patterned with green leaves and golden vines. She also had a hair pin holding her hair into a bun which stuck out due to the pink cherry blossoms making the pattern that stuck out of the hair. Underneath, a somewhat tight set of clothes which were incredibly easy to move in. She wasn't in Gael for just the festival though. The contents of her handbag would reveal that. Anytime Aleina worked on a job, she always carried at least something with her. Within the handbag was her knife and a collection of vials sealed tight with cork toppings with paints on them for identification. It didn't matter what job it was, she even came to meetings prepared to do work.

As the somewhat conspicuous elf with a compound bow on her back walked through the Gael district, she took note of the various food stalls opened for the full crowd as well as the outdoor sections of restaurants packed. To her surprise, she noticed a familiar sight among all the typical food-carts and such. A single pink petal with 'Petal' written on it, one of her preferred bars in Ixia. Feeling a small smile come on, Aleina diverted her course and walked over, at first only observing as the curious admired the delicacy of Ixian rice wine, or sake as it was known within Ixia. She certainly didn't expect it, but it made sense as this was essentially advertising. There was a second reason for her approach though, and she spotted it at the end of the line.

After a decent wait, Aleina saw the Yulia and casually said, "I'll take the Springbloom. After all, it was quite refreshing after winning the Spring Archery Contest in Ixia. Oh, and hello Yulia."

The credits were placed on the counter, and some of the guests started whispering among themselves. Aleina's name did get mentioned, but it didn't provoke an intense reaction. Those who did know had to explain it, and a few seemed genuinely surprised about the results of the tournament. It was well known of how Archery was still prevalent in Sildrynn, so people did look at the girl curiously. The simple act of her taking a sip seemed to take on a new meaning with the extra attention. After bringing the dish to her lips, Aleina let loose a nostalgic smile with a somber but happy shine in her eyes.

"The floral taste which blends quite well with the regular plainness of this. I always enjoy a bottle when the blossoms bloom. Perhaps I could find some friends and close acquaintances to bring for a viewing next spring," Aleina calmly stated in a voice smoothed with positive emotion. It seemed to leave an impression on some of the line goers as well as the name of the Sake could be heard. Aleina also filled out the survey, but she gave a nod to Mihara after that. Perhaps it was to thank him for the sake, or perhaps a sign of good will that she added to his advertisement even in a minor unexpected way. She then turned her head to Aleina and said in a quieter voice, "It seems we both have something to do today. I just have a meeting to attend later, but your obligations seem to be more immediate."

Aleina's eyes narrowed slightly as she turned her light green eyes to Naoki and pulled back a strand of hair. She then raised her voice as she softly commented once she was sure Naoki was listening, "Well, that is unless you could take a small break. It wouldn't be long, but I understand if you have to stay. If not, I can come back later, though I have no idea how long I'll be gone."

 

[Pilgrim59]

S. Kaplan
Whitehall Lobby, Gael
FabulousTrash Huntertabbysandshark3 Meryl_ya ​

When Bilfin retorted, Kaplan gave a slight sigh. He comprehended and made peace with the fact of having the man tailing him as if he was his own shadow. Despite his reluctant demeanors, Kaplan was glad to have Bilfin around. Not a word further on the subject, as Kaplan had made peace with that for the last few years. Despite that fact, he has yet to fully adjust to this life. It felt as if it was yesterday since Kaplan last spoke to his father. He can see their image everywhere he went. Kaplan took to heart what his father said, particularly when Bilfin was entrusted under his wing. The matter of origins and chances were inconsequential now, for Kaplan and Bilfin has seen some time together on the best of terms one could find. After all, they both shared the same responsibilities to their children, despite their varied outlooks in life. Like the formal apparatus that separates them from the rowdy hoodlums of the lower parts of Gael, they were ultimately the same.

Vibrant blues and metallic greys passed the descending platform by, as Kaplan conjured up his next words.

"Make sure little Al does. Worry not about a replacement, I will be at home with Mira that day to work on a school project. Riel just canceled her trip this morning. She'll be around with us." Kaplan remarked, as the elevator doors arrived on the ground floor - signaled by the reticent chime of the digital indicator, following the artificial announcer voice. There was something about the mundane phenomenon that Kaplan now decided to pay heed to. He finally spoke his mind.

"There used to be a practice called 'elevator music' pre-ARK, so said some of the books I have been reading. Perhaps we could use those. Classical, perhaps." Kaplan added with a slight smile, as they passed the reception desk.

There was a certain flair of elegant stride between the two men, as they beckoned the attention of those within the lobby. Eyes were on Kaplan and Bilfin, as the duo engaged in their synchronized steps. A tornado of red and green to give life to the worn eyes of those around them. Kaplan's eyes finally shot across the lobby, homing in upon the lone wolf in idle. The chairman was elated to see them. A business partner, a field colleague, and a friend. Ilana, as he saw her, was someone Kaplan would be inclined to square away a board meeting as he did just for lunch. Respect, borne of gratitude, for looking after Mira while he was deployed on an emergency contract. In return, the woman had granted him the courtesy of frequenting certain locales together. Far from romantic endeavors, but affable settings to solidify their engrossed discussions as they deciphers each other's permitted pasts. Their eyes met, prompting the chairman to raise his words.

"Director. How was your drive? All without a hitch, I presume?" Kaplan purposefully addressed Ilana as 'Director.' A slight jest to the unneeded formalities pertaining to their preestablished friendship, one out of respect attributing to her hard-work as the head of Valkyrion's Research and Development Divisions. He smiled slightly.

"I have a reservation for us at the Sky Garden. Versatile dishes, reticent environment. Mr. Bilfin here will be accompanying us. As will Ms. Ronnivier, of whom should be here right about now." he added, turning over his shoulder with a sharp glance at the elevator and the stair exits. Within the timeline given, perhaps Roniv will handle such a limited window just fine. Unless, of all reasons, she chose the stairs instead.

"Hm. Perhaps five minutes is rather taxing for Ms. Ronnivier, given her... stature." he muttered to himself, with his hand cupping his chin in a contemplating manner.

 

[Once]

Nora Venturi
Lanser Square Mall, Gael
Interactions: Open
​

The midday sun beamed down upon the mall, casting shadows on the wave of visitors inside. A couple held hands as they walked across one of the many walkways connecting the two sides of the upper floors, their bushy tails touching. Solid blacks, cast by the thin beams supporting the expansive windows, sectioned them away from an unusually short gentleman standing at the edge of the bridge, the textured windows showering his white hair with grey flecks. Below them, a janitor fluttered about, fairy-like wings beating as she wiped down one of the few empty tables in the food court. She tossed her cleaning rag back into her cart with a squelch, doing her best to navigate her way through the crowd as she made her way towards the next table. A curly-haired woman sidestepped the winged Remnant as she passed by before quickly making her way to the table, claiming it by dropping her wallet and keys on its damp surface.

Having secured a place to sit, Nora took a moment to relish the sun’s warmth, allowing it to seep into her as the sunlight bathed her in a golden glow. It was comfortable—like slipping under your covers after a long day at work—and paired with the exhaustion she felt from the flight to Gael, she couldn’t help but tip her head back in a drawn-out yawn. Ignoring the other visitors surrounding her, the woman reached upwards, keeping her arms up for several moments before extending them to the side in one long stretch.

Once she was done, she plopped herself down in the plastic chair and pulled out her phone, flicking through the mall’s website as she tried to find a place to eat. Seeing the wall of absurdly long wait times she was met with, she couldn’t help the dismayed look that had spread across her face. Was she seriously going to have to wait half and hour for fast food? With a sigh, Nora tapped on the fastest one.

Several icons leapt up to draw her attention, each item accompanied by their respective costs and calorie counts with a small line of black text that said, ‘Read More’. Her eyebrows scrunched together thoughtfully as she browsed through the options, clearly deep in thought. Normally, she’d try to choose something on the healthier side, but given how she was on vacation, the Remnant figured that she might was well eat something indulgent, especially since her other option was a salad—something that definitely wouldn’t get her through the day. After placing her order—a spicy chicken sandwich and a mint chocolate chip milkshake—and confirming her payment of 9.32 credits, Nora switched to another app, knowing that she’d receive a notification when her order was ready.

And for the next thirty minutes, she browsed through her social media feed, which had been flooded by others sharing their impromptu trips to Gael, replying to those she found interesting and skimming through the rest.

Eventually, she felt her phone vibrate as a message appeared at the top of her screen--her lunch was ready--which left her running off to grab her lunch. She left her baseball cap on the table—a worn out thing with a faded blue color and the logo of an Ixian basketball team—and grabbed her other valuables before stuffing them into her shorts. Ducking under a stray fry, she began her long journey through the crowd, turning around to take a look behind her to make sure that no one was stealing her spot.

 

[Huntertabbysandshark3]

Haldir Bilfin
interactions: Pilgrim59 FabulousTrash​

even without Kaplan having said anything Haldir knew the man was probably having to get used to him essentially existing as the man's shadow. but then again it was the simple fact of being the chairman now since Haldir had worked for Kaplan's father prior. it was simply just a matter of Haldir's job. but it was easy to take solace in the fact that their relationship was not simply professional, despite the different roles they were far more similar than the surface appearances would suggest. regardless of this moment of musing as the descended world rushing past him in a controlled fall, Kalpan would give his answer to one of his other questions. "I assumed as much sir always difficult to get some personal time, good to see you're taking that chance" Haldir responded with a small smile, he knew exactly how hard to was to find time to spend with one's own child and well Haldir was glad Kalpan would be taking time to spend with Mira too. with the elevator found it stop at the bottom of the tower and as per usual all eyes were on them as the pair moved in perfect sync pausing just behind Kaplan as the pair began conversing Haldir gave a nod to Ilana leaving it at that for now and again when Kaplan said he’d be joining them for lunch

 

[Mqueserasera]

JANE EXETER
Mentions: N/A
Location: In front of a shabby restaurant somewhere in Gael


Merry was today in Gael, how different it was from the turbulent festiveness of usual. The artificial kind, Jane Exeter remarked to herself before the backdrop of a looming police station, whose brass crest atop the doorway promised perfect order and assurance to the wanting. Leaving all that loftiness behind, she stepped into the colorfully crowded street, merging along with the flow of officers rushing in and out of the station. A troubled scowl on the sharp, chiselled face distinguished her from her busy colleagues and their comme il faut bearing. This day, in particular, all law enforcers heightened their perpetually dull senses in fear of offending the powerful figure this day extolled. Disturbers of the peace were on the agenda, but in Gael, had ever a day gone by in unmolested peace? Somewhere right here in this lively district, far from the perfectly constructed hunting ground for consumerists, out of sight, out of mind, someone’s or many’s peace was being beaten senseless by the ruthless money-making machines on both sides of the legality twilight, the very place our Inspector Detective Jane Exeter conducted her business and was now waiting for a ride towards.

Before a minute passed, an inconspicuous car parked obediently by her feet. She took the passenger seat, and wherein was greeted with a hot coffee, a reminder of the day’s schedule, but before all that, a short excuse for lateness. She dismissed her subordinate’s small speech and pointed with her pinky at the almost full ashtray. “Stop smoking in my car,” she said in an incontestable tone, “stop smoking at all, it’s not good for you.” Her other hand buried her own stub between the still-hot ashes.

The color on the sergeant’s face rose. “Won’t happen again, inspector.” Then in a sudden talkative mood, he added, “and, errm, the superintendent didn’t seem very pleased, I heard. You met him just now?”

Jane regarded him with a curious look. Not every day you meet a rookie with so loose a mouth. They don’t educate them with the fists these days, not sufficiently.

“Something about the Impaler case…” he pressed on, not willing to drop a perfectly serviceable small talk.

“Yes,” she shrugged lightly, not much more than a small exercise of shoulders, “he merely thinks it was closed with too many loose ends. And sagely did he advises me to stay away from the trafficking case.”

The rookie was all eager to take up the hot topic. “The one Organized Crime Unit has been brewing for all three years? I heard about that one, I think they’re this close to ending the ops-” he brought two of his fingers together to denote the point, “sergeant Ralph was all about it the other day: something about one of their informants got hanged…”

“They pulled out, yes,” she cut him curtly, “but the haul’s so hefty even the top brass caught a whiff of it. They won’t let it slip just so.”

“So you’re going to stay out of it as the superintendent told you?”

“That is for me to decide. Hold your mouth and turn left.” She gestured with a bit of annoyance to the intersection ahead.

“The witness’s place is that way, Inspector,” he replied.

Jane gave him a deadly look, which had great effects on the faint of hearts, one of which the rookie happened to possess.

A rundown restaurant was their destination. Located at an intersection and absolutely dwarfed by the surrounding office buildings, the place was an eyesore aesthetically. A shabbily dressed server held the door for them. He nodded sharply when Jane passed, but her sour-faced subordinate was halted. “He’s with me,” said Jane, and only then was the bewildered young man allowed in. As they strode to her table – the one furthest from the windows – she turned her gaze to a multi-storey building across the street and, in that brief moment, noted a window with the curtains down. A frown wrinkled her sharp face.

Having settled down, they soon found none of the quaintness of frugality one would expect from so shabby a place on the menu. Extravagant meals and befitting prices were all this place had to offer: from fancily cooked shrimps sourced from simulated oceanic environments, highest graded games from the vast pastures in Syldrinn to the exotic monstrous breeds from Yarjha, all presented with an abundance most luxury restaurants could not muster.

“Is this some sort of a joke?” swallowed the rookie.

“It’s on me,” Jane answered nonchalantly his great wonder. Her entire attention was fixated on a table in the middle of the floor – a sight undoubtedly would draw gazes in a less extraordinary restaurant:

Two men sat facing each other across a white-clothed round table. Saliva inducing delicacies and prized wine bottles occupied the space between them, but none of the intense gazes involved was spent on such distractions. Behind each, two other men stood with their hands jointed in front, eyes behind dark shades and faces to terrify children. To each sitting man’s right side also was a briefcase, which by the way they were treated can be easily deduced to hold not some everyday carries of middle-age salarymen, but something of staggering values.

Between the two, the grey-haired old man seemed at ease in his all-black attire, only occasionally fixing his red tie and stealing side glances at the other tables, of which only less than half were filled. But the perpetual smirk on the very corner of his mouth denoted absolute confidence, the sort which can only be acquired after a lifetime of looking down on others. While the younger one was overly tensed, uncomfortably in wanting of better composure; though as richly dressed, he possessed none of the air his business partner emitted.

Then, if only to play his role in a cliched situation, or rather to avoid any needless entanglement, the grey-haired raised his demanding voice: “So, do you have the money?”

“It’s right here,” the other one answered, quick and to the point, contrary to his outward demeanor.

“Grand!” the old man broadened a bright smile. Thereupon he slammed his briefcase on the table, rattling the porcelain plates and silver utensils with glee.

“Yes, of course,” the younger one brought his own to the table, slowly and surely, but a droplet ran stealthily down his back. A click, then its content was revealed: a tiny stick no bigger than one’s pinky. The moments it appeared, it felt as if the old man’s intense gaze would bore a hole in it.

Came his turn, the old man flicked open his case ever so slightly, but from which a blinding ray escaped, dazzlingly reflected on the plate’s porcelain surfaces. Just as soon, he closed shut the case. “Enough now. Hand it over.”

“Right,” but the other one’s hands failed to let go of the case. Those very hands trembled and soaked the metal surface in salty sweat. Then all of a sudden, his mental restraint snapped and briskly he turned his head to the window, staring desperately at a certain curtained window on the opposite building.

“What’s the matter?” his business partner hissed through gritted teeth.

At this point, Jane rose from her seat, before checking again a brief report her phone had just received. The show had come to an end.

“Rookie,” she said loudly to reach those tables in the middle of the room, “An armed young man apparently had committed suicide on the fifth floor of the hotel right across the street. You are to go take a look to confirm his condition then fetch a nearby patrol officer to handle the case, but make sure to follow the corpse all the way to the morgue.”

The boy dropped his oysters. “Wha…”

“Go now. Go!” she said with ire.

After her subordinate had hurried away, all the blinds in the restaurant were shut close, leaving not a sliver of sunlight into the now quiet place. And it was extremely quiet; no sound was coming in and out of the establishment. The other “customers” interrupted their meals and rose from their seats, facing the table in the middle of the room. Jane took heavy steps to where now sat a man who was huffing and downing a glass of wine. On his opposite, the other man and his guards froze in place, only then aware of their predicament.

Closer and closer, she brought her grim countenance to the terrified young man’s. “Do you have the money or not?” she softly repeated the old man’s question. There was no answer.

“You reckon it was a joke? When you were told this place was a no-nonsense ground?” her tone now as cold as her gaze, and she spat the words with controlled but visible wrath, “here is a place of order. My order, my law. All transactions on this ground is under my protection. But now I am crossed, and thus offended, thus ridiculed.”

“Now,” Jane straightened herself, but boring still her gaze into the man at her mercy, “I’m not a woman to take all things personally. But I have a reputation, you see, a business, to safeguard. Which is why you are to call your people, so we can discuss alternative payment methods. Or do you have a perfect nothing? Let us pray it is not so.”

At this breaking point, the man gave a sharp cry. One of the guards reached for the gun under his jacket. Just as soon he fell. His face planted on the ground, dark liquid formed a pool around his torso. A lady advanced in years, one of the patrons, stood over the dead body, in her hands a shotgun was smoking still. Behind her, the rest of the customers also had their weapons at the ready.

“I don’t have the money! Nothing!” cried the young man at the table. The remainder of his guards flinched but dared not repeat the mistake of his late colleague.

“Shit,” Jane rubbed her forehead, “take him to the back.” At once gunpoints were lowered. Some among the servers and customers came forward and dragged the pale-faced men away.

A chair creaked. The grey-haired old man rose from his seat, his head shook disapprovingly. “Youngsters these days,” he remarked, then in a more cordial tone and a faint smile beside, he continued, “You live up to your reputation, Miss Jane. I can already see myself employing your service again in these troubled times.”

“Please,” Jane fished a cig from her pack and put it to her mouth, refused to answer his gratitude. “I would appreciate it if you’d pick your buyer with care in the future. I dislike involving my business in needless risks for no substantial profit. You know we get by on commission fees here.”

“Worry for nought, my good friend,” he broadened once more his bright smile, “It’s an unfortunate day for me, but I shall leave good tips, that I shall. Reliable sorts are a rare breed these days. Businesses’ been dire you see. But soon, yes, soon, I shall return. There are real customers in real need yet for my goods.”

“Let's not place our trust and hope in the wrong places. You should go now, I need to clean up this mess,” she regarded the mess of smashed plates and human flesh.

“Could today get any worse?” she asked herself when outside of the restaurant, and took a moment to wonder if she should call her subordinate or going back herself.

 

[Zufaix]

Y U L I A​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

"I'll take the Springbloom. After all, it was quite refreshing after winning the Spring Archery Contest in Ixia. Oh, and hello Yulia."

The voice seemed to draw the attention of all the patrons, Yulia included, though for her it was from familiarity rather than quiet respect of the others.

"Ah, Miss Aleina! I wasn't expecting to see you here, not that I'm complaining of course. One Springbloom, as you requested." Already having poured the sample as she heard the name, she slid it towards her Type-C friend before calling over to Naoki "Hey Naoki! Can you grab another Springbloom and a Snow Blossom while you're over there?"

"Already on it." In a nonchalant stride he grabbed two bottles and brought them over to where Yulia was, glancing over Aleina as he did so, though never meeting her gaze, clearly trying to avoid eye contact with her. "Thank you for your patronage Miss Aleina. Both Petal and Mihara Brewery appreciate your patronage." He walked back over towards a few customer on the opposite end of the tables and began chatting with them.

"The floral taste which blends quite well with the regular plainness of this. I always enjoy a bottle when the blossoms bloom. Perhaps I could find some friends and close acquaintances to bring for a viewing next spring,"

Mihara nodded in respect to Aleina as the comments reached the ears of the other patrons.

"Indeed, Sake always tastes better with friends after all. Though I suppose that's true about most things."

"It seems we both have something to do today. I just have a meeting to attend later, but your obligations seem to be more immediate. Well, that is unless you could take a small break. It wouldn't be long, but I understand if you have to stay. If not, I can come back later, though I have no idea how long I'll be gone."

Yulia quietly thought for a moment before responding. "I don't particularly mind. The crowd is steadying out and Naoki is capable enough, so it shouldn't be a problem if I take my break now," She loosened her hair from the ponytail it was in and straightened it out before continuing "plus, I'm interested in this idea you have for us both." She put her hand to her chin as if wondering what it could be.

"Hey Naoki! I'm taking my break a bit early okay? I'll be back soon."

"Yea yea, hurry back." He called back while waving his hand nonchalantly, as if he expected it to happen, though his gaze was still avoiding Aleina. Yulia walked around to the other side of the tables, appearing next to Aleina and escorting her out into the main streets.

"Soooo, what's this about?" Yulia said playfully. She seemed to be in a good mood, and much more relaxed than while behind the tables of the stall. "Even as your favorite bartender, you rarely request things from me."


Interactions: Silver Wolf Aleina

 

[StaidFoal]

Cedrix Drixton

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

INTERACTIONS: AnonyMouse (Vae)

NEARBY: Spookyy- (Hana) ​

"Owie..." Cedrix bit his lip at the impact with the floor, having tripped just short enough to bang his knee against the pavement. Nevertheless, he slipped his hand in Lee's pocket and pulled out whatever in those few seconds of shock. Not even glancing at its contents, he stuffed them in his pocket before collecting himself on all fours while his victim hastily rose to his feet. "I'm sorry, sirs!" he shouted, rolling onto his buttocks while rubbing his numb knee. He forced a clumsy smile at the small group as his gaze drifted to the Type-B woman. "And missus!" he quickly corrected. Cedrix gladly took Lee's hand (though not needing to be lifted up that much). The numbness of his knee morphed into a pulsating pain; irritating, but not unbearable. That'll definitely bruise... If Nayli finds out, I'll never hear the end of it...

With a gleaming countenance and unassuming smile, Cedrix glanced between each of the three people. Type-B, Type-A, Type-B... In the same grey clothes those work people wear... Normally, Cedrix would have bolted away after a snatched wallet and an apology. But—in Cedrix's own special world of logic—People in work are people with more money... right? So only two others... "I actually don't know where I am—everyone's so tall and dense. There's so many people here that I keep tripping in the crowd, and my hands land where they shouldn't go." He jokingly whacked his noggin, sticking out a tongue. "D-Dis—Disadbin...Dis..." Cedrix froze for a few seconds, maintaining his childlike demeanor. "Bad things about being a Type-D!"

To him, the old Type-A guy looked like the easygoing superior of the two; simple enough, he felt. As for the other? As cars suddenly swerved, followed by a few crashes, Cedrix spotted her perched on a fire hydrant, gazing at the source of the noise. Gee, must be nice to be taller than me and take the stool to see everything else.

Cedrix spun around to Lee, now bearing a smug grin. "What's your date doing?" he teased. "I don't think it's safe for adults to get on fire hydrants. I'mma get her off for you!" Cedrix quickly scurried over to her, arms freely out at his side. He ignored Lee's response if any, focusing on her inattentiveness. Cedrix decided he'd explore the crashes later, seeing the transient opportunities it provided.

Cedrix hobbled behind Vae, hastily averting his eyes from the center of his gaze. Just in case her peers were keeping an eye on him, Cedrix mouthed out 'Hey,' and 'Get off of there,' while moving one of his hands to the side of her waist, though hovering over it without contact. His other hand went straight for any visible pocket.

 

[Meryl_ya]

RONIV
- LOG_01 -​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

It all started with a walk, then speed-walking, then running, then-

Wruuungg-

-roller skating.

Smartphone in hand, the small lady makes her way across the streets, the Whitehall Tower parking lot as her target. As she makes a sharp turn, her sling bag got whipped by the air, though she managed to keep it secured by holding onto the strap. Her loafers and ID card are shaken here and there inside the woven bag.

She would surely be a sight if people can take a proper look at her--a small body dressed in a black suit with a white collar, sling bag floating by the wind, a smartphone in her clutches, and pink, glimmering roller skates around her feet.

Perhaps if she were to be in a different setting, she would surely laugh at her state of dressing, but alas, time gives no more leeway at the moment. In her mind, the only thing that's of importance is to arrive as quickly as possible, which, if she were to guess by looking at her GPS, would be impossible.

Yet, she manages to jinx herself.

Roniv unlatches the safety belts on her roller skates and changes them to her loafers. Once done, she presses the button to send the roller skates back to the renter. It's a blessing that the place she's working in provides a ground parking lot, or else she would've unjinxed herself as she were to climb up the underground stairs.

As Roniv makes her way past the clear doors and inside the building, she sees her boss and his bodyguard, Bilfin, standing beside a familiar figure. Unknowingly, she skids to a stop as a recognizance comes to her.

Isn't that the head of Valkyrion Firm's Research and Development department?

Quickly before any of them could notice her presence, Roniv runs her hand over her hair and clothes in hopes to make herself appear more proper. Quick and steady, she then makes her way to them.

Sure, it's not rare to see Roseya Ilana in media. But to have the chance to meet and talk to her in real-time..!

Roniv unknowingly let out a giggle at being reminded of how Clown would act if he were to be in her shoes right now. Perhaps he will ask for her autograph? Or instead, he will be overly nervous and faint?

Well, if the time and mood are right, perhaps Roniv will finally able to give him something he can enjoy.

And with that thought in mind, she makes her way to the trio of type-Bs, not forgetting to introduce her so after she makes sure to not disturb anything.

"Ronnivier at your service. I beg your pardon for the delay on my part."

Tag/s: Pilgrim59 || FabulousTrash || Huntertabbysandshark3

_001​

 

[AnonyMouse]

V a e t r i x​

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL​

DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47

Never put your back to the door. Never take your eyes off a thief. These were rules to live by. While she observed the goings-on in the intersection, Vaetrix spied, in the corners of her eyes, that the boy who had bumped into Lee was moving away. She assumed that meant he had gotten what he came for and was taking his leave, but much to her disatisfaction, she felt someone invade her personal space a moment later, and quickly turned, just in time to see he had chosen her as his next target.

Her hand was upon him almost instantly, tightly gripping the wrist of the hand that had gone for her pockets.

"I. Know. Where. You. Live," Vaetrix said in a harsh whisper, keeping her voice low as her steely yellow eyes glared at him and her feathers bristled. "Don't get greedy. Where I come from, you'd lose this hand, boy." Despite her tone and being visibly angry with him, she quickly released him and hopped down from the hydrant. Hana was the real issue, not this kid. And, if she was being honest, she had no idea if he'd actually done anything wrong.

The brief flash of anger was only that: a flash. Vaetrix's features almost instantly returned to her usual, cold neutrality, emotions snuffed out like a candle. She had a plan and she immediately put it into motion. "I don't have time for this. Follow me if you want to make a few honest credits," she said calmly as she walked away toward the street, not caring if he followed or not. Through the crowd, she saw her two partners begin to move in her direction. "Someone tagged our truck. I'm gonna go check it out and see if we need to file a report," Vaetrix said as she passed them in the crowd. "You guys just go grab lunch. I'll take care of it." Lee seemed about to protest, but Roy must've picked up on something because he led the younger man away, toward some retaurants further down the sidewalk.

Vaetrix soon reached the edge of the sidewalk and stared out into the street, where Hana was still standing. She briefly considered using her regalia to turn all the lights red, but that seemed like an unecessary abuse of power and might make the drivers behave erratically. Instead, she muttered an expletive or two under her breath while she waited for the traffic to stop, then looked both ways and ran out.

"Stupid girl," was all she said as she hooked her arms under Hana's and began to drag her to safety, ignoring the two angry drivers who had wrecked while trying to avoid her.

StaidFoal Spookyy-​

 

[Silver Wolf]

Spoiler: Appearance

Aleina "Redleaf" Goldbloom
Location: District Gael Plaza
Interactions/Mentions: Yulia ( Zufaix )


​

It was clear to Aleina that Yulia was happy with getting out and being able to spend time with someone she knew. That was Aleina's impression at least. It wasn't until they were out of earshot that Yulia spoke, and the playfulness in her voice was pleasant to hear.

"A selfish one," Aleina started, pertaining to the favor. "There was a miscommunication from someone who requested my presence. My guess is a publicity event, but it could be something else as well. Regardless, they're taking on any travel expenses along with a decent pre-payment. I was thinking of getting lunch while I waited. That's when I ran into you, so I thought we could get lunch together. There's one restaurant in an outdoor mall I've heard good things about. We should be able to walk there under fifteen minutes."

A few moments of walking later, Aleina took some time to think. It certainly was an odd request she had received. It wasn't unusual to get publicity events in Ixia such as going to a school as a speaker, a magazine asking for an interview, or the occasional product deal to use her standing. For the latter she almost exclusively did it for things she enjoyed such as archery equipment or some clothing brands. Now that she thought about it, she must stick out like a sore thumb in a designer kimono tailor made for her. What stuck out about this was where she was going and the fact that she didn't know exactly what her job was. Also not an unusual happenstance given her real job that could be described as being a secret agent for the Valkyrion Firm.

Her thoughts were interrupted as she was reminded of Yulia's presence and decided to start some conversation.

"I sure hope Mihara's little advertisement pays off...I just hope the Petal doesn't get overrun once the festival dies down. It would be quite something though, seeing new people. I just hope they respect my archery skills as much as the usual patrons. Some pubs in Gael have dart boards, so I could easily wipe the floor of an entire packed establishment if I wanted to."

The last line was a joke whichw as shown by her rare smile and a soft chuckle. After that, she gave Yulia a chance to weigh in. Soon they would approach the mall she had heard about.

 

[FabulousTrash]

Roseya Ilana
LOCATION: District Gael, Whitehall Tower Lobby
DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47

Interactions/Mentions: Pilgrim59 Huntertabbysandshark3 Meryl_ya



Roseya's eyes darted around, observing the lobby area while her hands were placed in her lap. All she could think about was where they were going to eat today. Her stomach was on the same page as her, as it made a small growling noise. She let out a small sigh, mainly because it was her fault for not eating a proper breakfast this morning.

Luckily, the wait wasn't that long. Roseya's ears stood up as she heard the elevator doors opening. Her gaze moved upward to see a flash of red of green, instantly recognizing Kaplan. True to form, Bilfin wasn't too far behind him. She watched as they walked through the room towards her and eventually, her eyes met Kaplan's. When she first met him, Roseya never thought that their relationship would go any further than associates and collogues. Though, that all changed when Roseya volunteered to take care of his daughter a few years back, and since then the two spent more and more time together, getting to know one another. Ultimately, she was grateful for this turnout, since Roseya didn't have many other friends aside from Kaplan.

Roseya stood from her chair as Kaplan greeted her. The corners of her mouth twitched upward into a small smile.

"My drive was fine, yes. Thank you for asking."

Off to the side, Bilfin gave Roseya a curt nod, to which she returned the gesture, before turning her attention back to Kaplan.

"Sky Garden? I don't think I've been there before. It sounds fancy."

At the mention of a fourth person joining in, Roseya tilted her head slightly, but then nodded at the mention of the name. She was familiar with Ronnivier mainly through Valkyrion, but she was aware that they held an administrative position within Tritical as well. Roseya followed Kaplan's gaze to the exits for the elevator and stairs, listening to him mutter a little bit.

As if on cue, however, Roseya heard footsteps approaching the trio and her eyes moved to the direction they were coming from. For a split second, she was confused since she didn't see anyone immediately, but then looked downwards and saw Ronnivier as she joined the group. Roseya nodded at Ronnivier's apology.

"It's no trouble."

Once more, Roseya looked up to Kaplan.

"Will Riel be driving us today?"

 

[Spookyy-]

Hana
Currently being Dragged off the Street
Interacted with: AnonyMouse
Nearby: StaidFoal

​

. . .
A head tumbled onto the floor in a dark room of a lab-- and with it, two bodies came crashing onto the floor. The first was the black-robed, headless scientist, and the other-- was a poor, desolate girl whose long red hair matched the color of the liquid that was seeping out around her. Her eyes widened in madness, shaking in disbelief-- she wanted nothing more than to just end it all. If she had only wished for something else-- instead of wanting to "live," maybe then-- and only then, would she find the true peace and happiness that she's been searching for. Instead-- she continued her pursuit onward from there, begging for more time until it is found each and every day.
. . .

That scene-- is usually one of the five or six variations that run through Hana's head as the jolting self-inflicted paralysis locked her joints. It didn't last for more than five minutes, but already she seemed to blend in with this blasted city. The honks and shouts to get her out of the way were replaced with indifference and bemused eye rolls, as cars and people simply moved around her. Thankfully- or perhaps unfortunately for a certain vengeful spirit-- someone had the decency to drag her off the middle of the road. Why-- even in a moment of weakness, must she take something? She has probably wasted the time of her rescuer and the people around her. Not only that-- the man running little food-stand gig she signed up for was probably desperately trying to find replacement manpower to replace her.

Finally regaining her senses, she felt supported by someone's arms as she was carried like a mannequin off the crossing lane. She was surprised that someone of such a short stature could just pick up and carry her so easily. Although-- they definitely carried themselves as a rugged, no-nonsense kind of character, and did their fair share of complaining when it came to actually moving her. Was this person from her Home? It was very difficult for someone like Hana to discern the faces and characteristics of the people who interacted with her. After all-- most interactions she's had involved--

. . .Hana clutched her head as a pain surged through her entire body, perhaps her sword sending its waves of spite and disdain for her temperance and temporary pacifism. Regardless, as she was finally set down, she began to rotate her arms in a circular motion as to work out any lingering aches. Looking down at what seemed to be a child in her eyes, she ruffled her hair-- haughtily laughing.

"Thanks kid-- I owe you one," she flashed her a big smile, before the tugs of her regalia had pulled on her emotive strings, rendering her once again more mute and reserved. Damned thing, can't even genuinely smile in front of a child. Poor acts like that might be construed as insanity. "Where are your parents--? Are you lost--?" she inquired.

Perhaps Hana didn't know she was talking to a grown-ass woman, but-- then again, she hasn't learned much in her years. But-- she was still eager to make any small connection to literally anybody, as the alternative of returning back home and continuing to live in that hellhole was not what she had in mind during a big festival like this.
...

​

​

 

[StaidFoal]

Cedrix Drixton

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL DATE: QUIRTIA 25, AE 47

INTERACTIONS: Spookyy- (Hana) AnonyMouse (Vae)​

Getting caught wasn't new to Cedrix. Neither was being threatened, or scrutinized. But each time always left Cedrix with his heart on the verge of bursting through his chest. Now, especially, with a grip so tight that it cut off blood circulation to his hand, he could only stare back at the sharp-eyed person he dared to target. A frozen still as the steely yellow pupils dug into him, meshed with her ominous words. Of how she knew of his home—albeit with no detail to back her claim—and the instigation for him to remember how the young Renald lost his hand the same way, stumbling back into their apartment while oozing puddles of blood. "I-I'm sor—" But as quickly as the half-breed snatched his wrist, the moment of chastisement was over.

There wasn't even enough time for Cedrix's countenance to morph and show what he felt, now standing still as she told off her co-workers. Clenching his wrist, his legs shook slightly as he bit his lips shut. He rapidly blinked to make the warm blurriness go away, dragging his numbed legs after Vae. He only snapped partly out of his trance as a light, sour stench rose from below his waist.

"Follow me if you want to make a few honest credits," she had said earlier, but at the time sounding more like a command to the shaken Type-D than anything else. But she didn't plan on waiting for Cedrix, seeing as she left for the edge of the sidewalk immediately after. Way faster than his shaken self could trudge.

Wordlessly, he wormed past the passersby with far less grace than earlier, bumping through each person until he was finally at the front of the ruckus. He'd suspected the scene earlier just based on the noise: some crashed cars, angry drivers, and a tall woman with burning red hair—Hm...? Cedrix rubbed his eyes, his moping mind picking up as another subject of interest appeared. One he thought was some misunderstanding or mistaken vision on his part. A thought quickly disproven after only a few seconds as the scary woman dragged the Red Terror by the shoulders. The killer that Meira always told him and the others to avoid and watch out for. The killer that inhabited the same District Zero as his commune. Someone who could level the entire apartment block he lived in. And the same towering woman being towed like a warehouse worker and a crate of goodies.

The thought of who exactly Cedrix chose to pickpocket crossed his still mind again. Wide-eyed, he glanced back at his wrist. If they weren't on a street of onlookers, would the terrifying lady have spared his arm like so? His life, even? He looked back up to the pair, now off the street. He'd been trailing at a distance, so whatever they said to each other was lost from his ears. He inched closer to actually hear them, but let his jaw droop as he saw the Red Terror... pat her head?

Cedrix clawed at his hair in horror. They're friends?! His nails went into his mouth, finding themselves trimmed by his chittering teeth. Don't tell me... she's ratting me out to the Red Terror...? Is everyone back home going to die because I misjudged...?

In moments, adrenaline overtook Cedrix's mind—and rationality. He dashed over to the pair, each standing well over a foot above the Type-D. He slid on his knees, almost bumping against Vae's knee, hands out like a faithful devotee with an offering. In his palms was Lee's wallet, Credits and all. "T-Take this honorable tribute a-as a means of forgiveness of a man responsible for many wrongdoings..." Cedrix looked up Vae with glimmering eyes and a quivering demeanor. Spirit sunken in the presence of what he imagined was the singular person with the highest kill count and someone in cahoots with her. "Please let everyone go! They didn't do anything wrong!" he wailed. Like a whining child in a candy store.

 

[AnonyMouse]

V a e t r i x

LOCATION: DISTRICT GAEL
DATE: 25th of QUIRTIA, AE 47
INTERACTING WITH:
StaidFoal Spookyy- ​

Vaetrix dragged the limp body of the so-called “Red Terror” out of the street and to the relative safety of Gael’s sidewalks. As she set her down near a bench and finally got a proper look at the woman, she found it hard to believe this flaccid sank of human misery was the creature she’d seen in so many police reports and security camera footage. But the creepy, fleshy sword in her hands was proof enough.

I should go, Vaetrix thought when the woman began to flex her limbs. Show’s over. This detour had gone on long enough and it was time to-

The sensation of a hand upon her head, stroking her plumage as if she were a pet bird made Vaetrix literally bristle with anger… and confusion, too, when the act of kindness was followed by a peal of laughter.

“Thanks, kid – I owe you one,” the woman said.

Vaetrix looked to her left, then to her right. The D-type boy was standing nearby, keeping his distance. But, surely Hana wasn’t referring to him… right?

“Where are your parents, are you lost?” the redhead went on to say as Vae’s full attention returned to her.

“Same place you should be: dead or in prison,” Vae said, a little more sharply than intended and was about to give the woman a proper tongue-lashing when the D-type cut in, literally sliding into their midst, in a wild panic.

"T-Take this honorable tribute a-as a means of forgiveness of a man responsible for many wrongdoings..." the boy said, offering up a wallet as a sacrifice to the gods. Vaetrix could only assume this was Lee’s as she stared on in confusion. "Please let everyone go! They didn't do anything wrong!" he pleaded.

The gears began to turn. The lights came on. She wasn’t quite sure how she had instilled such fear in this young man. For the briefest of moments, Vaetrix considered leaning into it, using it to gain some traction in the quagmire that is District Zero’s underworld. Fear could be a powerful tool. While she would rather not be associated with Hana, Vaetrix understood there were undeniable advantages to being seen standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the Red Terror.

Fortunately, she was better than that. For all her shortcomings, Vaetrix still had a conscience, despite life trying to strangle it out of her at every turn. Her sense of honor was still strong, even if she wished she could smother it. Guilt set in almost instantly, such that she could barely bring herself to look the boy in the eyes as she spoke:

“I… apologize,” Vaetrix said, with a sigh. “In a fit of passion, I misspoke. Rest assured I have no quarrel with you or your people.” She accepted the wallet, only to open it up, fetch whatever paltry cash her partner had inside, and offer the money to the boy, while keeping the rest. She intended to pay him for helping her drag this fool off the street, but it seems he was too frightened to do so. She would see to it Lee got his ID and personal possessions back, but gullibility ought to carry a price. Losing a few credits should make him more aware in the future.

"Anyway..." her attention immediately shifted to Hana and any semblance of compassion vanished without a trace. She kept her voice low: "I would ask what has possessed you to crawl out of your hole and into the light of day, but prior evidence suggests you are only capable of two things -- killing and looking for the next person to kill -- so I'll save us both the trouble. 'Who' and 'why,' Hana? The sooner the deed is done, the better."