[System]
Nickname: Monarch/Butterfly Ninja
Age: 16
Appearance:

Yuri wears a beautiful necklace at all times, even outside of his transformation.
Description: A charismatic young boy who just so happens to be the first and only male student allowed at a prestigious all-girls school as some sort of initiative headed by the Headmaster of the Academy. Not much is known about this student other than his loyalty is unwavering and his bright spirit is immensely contagious.
Grimoire:
 • Title: The Butterfly Ninja [Mulan/The Princess and the Frog]
 • Description: A beautiful Wuxia tale of a heroic prince who harnessed the power of his ancestors, in the form of arcane magic, to defeat an evil overlord who threatened to bring an end to peace among the kingdoms.
 • Abilities: Much like the prince from the story, Yuri's magic/voodoo takes the form of beautiful spectral butterflies. He can sprout beautiful iridescent wings that allow him to fly. He can transform into a swarm of colorful butterflies if harmed suddenly to escape, or as means to travel quickly. He can even open portals to "summon" creatures to do his bidding or travel great distances. The spectral butterflies can do great and marvelous things. They can be used to either shield, enhance, or destroy. The extent of this magic solely depends on the willpower of the caster. He's also able to move like a ninja and is a brilliant martial artist. He can scale buildings like an insect. A list of current butterfly colors and their effects is listed below.

Blue Butterflies - Protection and Absorption. They can be used as shields against negative energy and oncoming attacks. The more powerful the negative energy and attack, the more taxing on Yuri's body. If not careful it can weaken him severely.

Black Butterflies - Voodoo Enchantments. The only sinister part of his arsenal and most powerful. The full extent of these butterflies is unknown and they resemble skeletal butterflies with black smoke trails. Yuri's aura darkens when he channels this power. Prolonged usage can potentially have negative consequences.

Purple Butterflies - Offensive Spells and Counters. Either used in a swarm-like beam to cause damage, or used in larger forms to decimate. Yuri can attach a purple butterfly to an ally and enhance their abilities. He cannot enhance his own abilities.

Weapon: The Luna Moth Staff has four different modes (Yuri will uncover them as the story progresses) and can switch between these different modes in the blink of an eye.

- The Luna Moth Staff takes the form of a sentient wizard staff that allows Yuri to channel his arcana and utilize his martial skills to an extent. It is a beautiful magic staff with crystals that hang on unbreakable diamond tendrils that retract and grow near limitless. The crystals are shaped like luna moth and possess sharp edges, able to slice through rock.

- The Luna Moth Staff takes the form of a deadly sentient rainbow scythe. In this mode, Yuri is able to move more offensively in battle. The blade on the scythe is strong enough to slice through lesser metals and maintains the dangling crystals from Magic Mode. Yuri is able to wield the scythe masterfully and can throw the scythe, like a deadly boomerang, catching it when it returns. It will only answer to Yuri and will not allow another to touch it. From the blade, sickle energy can be release from a distance.

- The Luna Moth Staff takes the form of a long crystalline blade able to slice through medium-grade metals and puncture steel. The crystals that once dangled are not replaced by a beautiful butterfly on the guard, and one single tendril that dangles from the handle of the sword. That one crystal has the same abilities as the ones in Magic Mode, and Reaper Mode. Yuri becomes a deadly swordsman for intense close combat. When the blade absorbs dark energy, it purifies it and increases the strength of its cutting edge. Though very lightweight, the sword is unbreakable.
- The Luna Moth Staff takes the final form of a long arch-mage staff. In this mode the power is evident, the mastery is clear. There is no mistaking the journey it took to unlock this mode. The staff loses the ability to shift back to the Magic Mode, as all abilities from the magic mode are transferred, but it maintains the ability to shift to Reaper and Blade Mode in the blink of an eye. The staff is one of legend, said to have been bestowed to an Arch-Mage by a god. There is much to unlock within the Master Mode.
Misc:

[User]
The jester had a growing smirk on her face as she heard Robin agree with her. However, that didn't last long. As soon as the blue-haired magical girl's speech turned on its heels, the clown's self-satisfied smile warped into a disgusted frown.

"Well, that's a way to ruin the mood," she said in a voice that barely contained her urge to puke at the cookie-cutter heroic drivel.

Even so, Robin jumping back and firing at the jester's feet was answered with the jester doing a dodge roll, or rather a cartwheel, to get out of the projectile's path. In the middle of her movement, she let her clubs go, throwing them at Robin's feet, kicking up a dust cloud to distract the archer.

It was then that her eyes set on one of the many motes of life force making its way to the unconscious workers. "I found ya~" she said in a sing-song voice. From her position up above the roof, Kanata would be able to see a sadistic smile stamped on the jester's face as she trust a fist inside the glowy orb and... dug around for something.

"Oh, come on, I wouldn't think your enthusiasm would be stinguished so fast. Anyway, I'm done here, so we can get going while we are on top," Harlequin—or better yet, Harly—answered when her 'partner' landed beside her. Just as she did so, she pulled her hand back from the light orb with a book—no, a Grimoire—now in her grasp.

"The Giant's Beanstalk, huh? That's gonna be fun to mess with~" she said in a pleased voice. A moment later, the whole circus illusion began to crumble and disappear as suddenly as it came.

"Annnnd that's it for the night! Thank you for your patronage and until next time, Ladies and Gentlemen!" Harly said before disappearing along with her partner in a puff of smoke and confetti.

---

[Assistant]
---

Despite the grim circumstances, everything went well in the aftermath of the encounter with the Darkkeepers. The life force was returned its rightful owners, the worst they would feel is the symptoms of a mild cold for a few days, even the one that had his soul pilfered by the Harlequin's assault would be goo to go in no more than a week.

On the other hand, things weren't so simple between the defenders of the world's peace. Scheherazade refused to comment on the issue after the battle. He promised to explain everything on the next day when the girls assembled the following day in their school's library. Even though his feline countenance betrayed no emotion, it was clear that he was perturbed by the events that happened and needed some time to sort out his thoughts.

※ The Following Afternoon, at the School's Library Club ※
"I'm sorry everyone. I guess I owe you all some explanations after what happened yesterday," Scheherazade said as he perched atop a windowsill bathed in the sunset's fiery hues. The wind waving the trees behind him in a vivid dance of light and shadows that looked almost as if it popped out of a Monet or Van Gogh.

"The Darkkeepers... I never expected to see them in this world. Maybe, after all, that I lost, I became a fool. How could I not see it coming again? In all the worlds conquered by darkness, the Darkkeepers are always there," Scheherazade said in a voice bitter with guilt.

"Just like you, I also asked them to help me in m fight against the Dark Empress. But... time and time again, I failed as their guide, and as a result of my failings, they became corrupted by the darkness they fought against. And now, the help her conquer other words..."

"It's really all my fault for not telling you before that such a thing could happen. I understand if you don't want to work with me anymore. But if there's anything I can do, let me know. I absolutely can't fail this time. This world is so blessed with the Princess touch. Stories became a part of your soul like in no other world I ever saw. I don't know what will happen if it were to fall in the hands of the Empress," Scheherazade said, pepping up a little as he explained everything he had to say.

One could almost feel the weight of the silence as he waited for a reply from the club members. But, before any of them could answer, a knock on their club room's door shook away the still atmosphere.

"Excuse me. Is this the Library Volunteer Club's room? I've come to return a book and can't find the librarian anywhere, would any of you be able to check it out for me?" The blue-haired girl said with a crystal-clear voice as she clutched a copy of a Cinderella pop-up book close to her chest.

---

[User]
Fractured, but Still Whole

He didn't know how long he'd been down, or when they'd left. Opening his eyes slowly he felt pain wash over him like he'd been hit by a freight. Everything hurt as he moved his body to stand. He felt it, the disconnect. His arm was dislocated, possibly broken. He would need to access it later. That was no ordinary power, that power came from a dark source, a powerful source. In his current state, he had no hope of defeating someone with that much strength. Realizing that his staff was not in his hand, he looked around and saw it sticking out of the adjacent wall. Approaching slowly, his hand reached out, fingers curling around the staff. Pulling, he freed the staff from the stubborn wall and twirled it a few times. His senses were returning when he looked around the room. Merlin. Where was she? Arm limp to the side, his eyes landed on Merlin. She was off in the distance outside of the building. The staff vanished, returning to the crystal on his necklace.

The carnival crew had long gone and the humans had awakened and remembered nothing of what happened. They all seemed to think they'd fallen asleep or something in a field across from the building they worked at. It was the normal response for someone who had their life force sapped. With one quick push, he popped his arm back into place and groaned loudly as more pain washed over him. His hand trembled slightly and it was at that moment he noticed the bruising on his hand. Leaving the scene, he tried to ask questions and get some sort of answer from Scheherazade, but the guide who was like a big brother to them ignored his questions. He ignored any question from either of them and when it was time to part ways, Yuri had more questions than he wanted to have.

That night he couldn't sleep thinking of the battle and the outcome. Thinking of Scheherazade and his secrecy. What was he doing this for? Saving people and protecting the world and for what? The people you trust are the ones who keep secrets from you. It hurt. He felt as if he'd been betrayed and as he sat in his bed twiddling his thumbs, he closed his eyes and rested his head on his pillow. That morning, bruised and aching, Yuri got out of bed and felt pain in his arm. He didn't think it was broken, but his parents rushed him to the doctor where he received treatment. He had a hairline fracture, and he had to wear a sling. Unsure about everything that he once stood proudly for, Yuri went about the day silent. Doubt had somehow wedged its way into his mind. How could he protect anyone when there was a foe out there that was capable of such destruction? How could he trust someone when they kept secrets?

Most of the day was filled with his classes, but he didn't speak to anyone from the team. He stayed focused on his classwork until the meeting in the school library. They were the members of the Library Club, and whenever they met it was to discuss with Scheherazade future missions or important stuff regarding the team. This time, the meeting was odd. Yuri wasn't the first one there. Yuzu was already there and he sat down without saying a word to anyone. He crossed his legs and touched his injured arm. He listened to Scheherazade as he addressed them all when everyone had arrived. Yuri listened but pretended not to, and when Scheherazade had finished, Yuri turned to look at him. Before he could speak, a knock came at the door and Yuri sighed. The girl wanted to return a book, but couldn't find the librarian. She was probably off in the teacher's lounge again drinking copious amounts of coffee.

"You know there is a return slot at the return desk you could've just slid it in there," he said taking a step forward, "but no worries, I can help. I'm Yuri by the way. Your name?"

Although he wanted to yell at Scheherazade and let him have a piece of his mind, this girl showing up helped him take his mind off of everything.


[System]
Age: 15

Element: Light

Appearance:

Personality: Often found staring at windows, focused on how the light is moved and changed by the imperfections in the glass, Zeke is politely referred to as distracted, more accurately referred to as ditzy and unaware. He's quite intelligent, but takes a moment to engage when people speak to him. People, to him, are just objects that reflect light, and so he tends to forget people might have something to say.

He wanders frequently, and has been found in all sorts of odd places. Due to Zeke's otherwise gentle and innocent nature, he's usually left to his own devices. When you do manage to catch his attention, you find an enthusiastic and kind boy who wants to be friends with everyone.

Despite all this, he has a terrible fear of the dark. He dislikes earth elementalists and their basement training grounds, though is fascinated with gems. He likes other elements though, especially water and fire for how they change and make light respectively.

History: Zeke is the son of an electrical engineer father and a earth elementalist mother. He was a bit of a handful ever since he learned to walk, and his parents would often find him sitting by ponds or staring at devices his father was fixing. Though a happy child, his mother worried about his lack of social skills and interest in making friends.

It was one of her fellow teachers who helped her understand Zeke. She found they could bond over jewelery, and she was the one who bought him his first camera. He was enrolled in the academy in the hopes that he'd find some children his own age that could understand him and gain some real friends.

Equipment: A digital camera equipped with a flash and old-fashioned viewfinder. It's his most treasured possession, and he is most often seen taking photos with it, even of things other people might find boring.

[User]
Vera observed that Silas seemed confused at her keenness to take the tram, and then realized a moment later that he might just be more used to it than she was, though, she could be wrong about that. It occurred to her that she knew nothing about her new dorm mate apart from his name and the type of elementalist he was. It was understandable, however, considering they had only met the night before, and that was probably all he knew about her too. That was not an issue, for that would change once they started hanging out more.

"Oh well you see," she gave a small hiss before sheepishly explaining. "I can't remember the last time I had been on one of those, or any kind of public transport for that matter. Speaking of which, I might need a little help with that too."

Other than that, Silas did express his eagerness to go out into the city as well, so Vera was a little puzzled when he stopped just as they were out the door.

"About yesterday... there's something I need to say"

"Hmm?"

How nervous he looked as he checked the hallway only made her more curious about what he was going to tell her. The surrounding atmosphere quickly turned serious, and she said nothing else as she waited for him to speak.

"I wanted to say... thank you. Thank you... for what you did yesterday. If you didn't say anything when we ran into Felix... I might've... I might've done something really, REALLY drastic. So... Thank you, Vera."

He then apologized for the change in mood, clearly desiring for it to return to what it previously was, but what he said got her thinking again. Did it really mean that much to him? She really was concerned about him when she offered him the spare room she happened to have, it was not that big of a deal to her and it only seemed right, but the part about her wanting for them to walk away from that confrontation? In all honesty, that had been mostly for herself, because she did not want to deal with getting caught up in whatever it could have escalated into.

"Oh, that? I'm glad you felt that it helped love, but it's not like I wanted to hang around him either. Felix, so that's his name? He obviously has issues, but that's not our concern anymore. We'll see how long whatsherface will put up with him for. Strange isn't it? It's as if he needs her to stay in control or something. It's almost scary, and kind of like how-"

How Vera was supposedly there for Silas when he was about to do 'something drastic', as he had put it. Well, that did not sound too good. Sure, Silas was not the one going around breaking podiums and cursing out at strangers, but could what he would do in reaction to provocation be something to worry about? If he had a tendency of getting physical when he got angry, then there might just be a problem.

She kept a lighthearted tone as she motioned for them to start walking again. "I mean, now that we're dorm mates, we're eventually going to make each other mad at some point. I just hope I won't drive you to do 'something drastic' then."

She made it seem as if she was teasing him, wanting to address a point, but at the same time not wanting to ruin the mood. She also hoped that the way she had cut herself off earlier did not seem too awkward.

[Assistant]
"Good, now that you've got a rhythm going, try taking longer breaths than normal, or very short breaths, like you're hyperventilating.
You'll notice yourself start to shake or otherwise lose control. This is perfectly normal, but it reminds us that losing control of our powers is not so unusual since it's just as easy to lose control of our bodies if we push the limits, even if we're just breathing. If anything, when you notice the shaking, learn how to stay calm and pull back," Catherine explained.

ShiZhen stared in amazement as the water parted, leaving her completely dry. She listened intently as Kano instructed her. As the water came back, she did as told and closed her eyes. She tried to focus on the water but intrusive thoughts clouded her mind, thoughts like, "I can't hear anything," and, "this is silly." She was having a hard time concentrating and became agitated, worried that the headmaster might be judging her as inept. As her nervousness mounted, her ability triggered, only instead of drawing moisture from the air and drenching herself, sheets of water flowed over to cover her body. Realizing what had just happened, ShiZhen gasped, inhaling a good portion of water. Her control broken by her inevitable sudden coughing fit, the water fell away from her body in a noisy splash. Had she had the right presence of mind, she would have noticed that in that exact instance, she was calm. Water calmed her, so she draws it from her surroundings when nervous. Her annoyance at becoming wet has gotten in the way of her realizing that, and right now, her trying not to drown also got in the way of that realization.

[User]
Algorithm
Once again, Kanako did as Catherine instructed. She began by taking longer breaths than usual. This was easy enough for her as she had quite a decent lung capacity. But when she tried the shorter ones, after a while, she felt it was beginning to take its toll on her stamina. It was as if she was not getting enough air inside her lungs.

"Haaa...haaa...haa...haa..." Kanako panted as she returned to her normal breathing pattern. "T-that was... quite tiring..."

[Assistant]
Zeke let Viola lead him down the hill to the station he'd arrived on yesterday morning. The realisation that it was the last place he'd seen his parents struck him with an odd mix of feelings. He'd been doing fine, he thought, but the thought stirred up a sense of homesickness. Didn't they say they were going to stay in the town for a few days? He might be able to go back home with them. But then he bumped into Viola when she stopped, and he grinned so widely his eyes closed. He liked his new friends. Icy and Yellow and Viola and he hadn't even been to class yet.

"Two for the student's rail?" A man in a floppy black hat asked from behind the glass. Zeke tilted his head at the man's big, grey, whiskery mustache, like a walrus'. "Thought you'd all be in class already," he mused as he gave them the tickets.

Zeke squeezed Viola's hand for reassurance. He didn't have to be shy. He didn't have to hide away. "Ummm..." His voice started out with good intentions, but it got frightened and trailed away. Instead, he pulled the note from this morning out of his pocket and held it out as explanation. Maybe that would help. The man's blue eyes trailed over it, then he nodded. The man's eyes were a duller blue than Viola's, a deep river blue to Viola's bright sky blue. Zeke realised he was staring and ducked his head down, feeling his cheeks warm up. "Sorry," he muttered.

The two took their tickets and, after a moment of searching, got onto the student's car. It was simple inside, with plain, cushioned benches that had seen better days, and too busy for photographs, but Zeke and Viola found a couple of seats together even as Zeke tried to look small around all the older kids who all knew what was going on. Once they'd sat down, Zeke realised that he hadn't let go of Viola's hand yet. This caused another blush, and he dropped her hand to hide his face. "Sorry," he mumbled into his palms. "Now your hand's all sticky and I'm..." The gentle rush of acceleration, and a change in the light, distracted him, and he looked out the window at the scenery.

Stygian

[User]
Zeke's grin when he bumped to her was the happiest little thing Lyra had seen in a while, and whatever dark thoughts she was holding about the forest vanished. "Careful," she muttered softly, grinning herself. Zeke's smiles were infectious, and it was always so sweet and charming, the sort of smiles people write songs about. Happy songs, the sort you'll play to commemorate a day with perfect blue sky like this.

There was also something about Zeke's gray eyes, how they looked at the entire world as if they were trying to snap it all up, and then, then they had found the right spot, they'd just sit down and listen. Can eyes listen? It was the word that popped into Lyra's head when Zeke was staring at the ticket master. Staring was definitely not the right word. They way he was looking then was just the way Lyra's teacher had looked when a recording was being played. It was fascinating to see how fascinated he could be.

Lyra shook her head. She shouldn't stare at people either. She felt a tug on her hand, and after taking her tickets, she let Zeke pulled her into the car.

There were a couple of older students in the car, some carried bags or equipments. Lyra amused herself for a moment by guessing what they could be in them. The black case that guy was carrying there was definitely a guitar, and the long tube that the girl with hairband was carrying, it probably contained a rolled paper. A drawing, a painting, or maybe even some elemental device.

And then Lyra felt something missing from his hand.

"Sorry," he mumbled into his palms. "Now your hand's all sticky and I'm..."

Oh, he'd been holding her hand, hadn't he? She didn't mind. Now it almost felt like she was missing something. "Nah, it's okay, Zeke."

But those eyes were looking out the window now, at the changing scenery. Lyra looked out as well, but it was her ears that were open. She remembered trams and trains and all sorts of public transports when her father had taken her to the city, and they were all noisy in one way or another. This tram, though. It was moving, definitely moving, she could see they were going downhill, but there was barely a sound. What sorts of device powers it? Seeing as there is the Academy, it could be some manner of elemental contraption or something or other. Oh, her father would love to know more about that.

But the trip was over far too soon, and the older students were starting to file out of the car even as Lyra was distracted by her hypothesising.

[Assistant]
The gentle bump of the tram stopping was the only thing that distracted Zeke enough to get off his chair. He took Viola's hand again, only to stop himself from getting lost, but she said it was OK. He liked being close to her anyway. Why that was so was a mystery, but he did. Maybe it was the way her violin kept playing a gentle exploring tune, like they were in a TV show together. Maybe it was the way she seemed to get him, almost like they'd been friends for years. He followed the crowd of older students, keeping close to Viola with her hand... He looked up at her face and checked it was her hand he was holding. It had happened before that he'd taken the wrong person's hand by accident.

Her blue eyes were the right colour, and he smiled at her again. It was lucky she had such distinctive eyes, like the colour of blue tropical seas in summer. When the crowd thinned, the older students somehow all knowing where they planned to go, Zeke looked away from Viola and looked around at the town. His expression went from a gentle smile to a round-eyed wonder. People thought that grey was drab and boring, but the streets beneath the buildings were a hundred different shades, each cobble a different shape and with different shadows. He wanted to take a photo, but that would mean letting go of Viola's hand, and that meant she might get lost...

"Stay with me, ok?" He asked her, as he reluctantly took his hand back and focused on the cobblestone street with the camera. All the people made it difficult to get a clear shot of the street, but he managed to find a gap anyway. He wanted to draw it now, but he had to stay with Viola. He turned around, and had a moment of panic before he identified her clothes and hair. He took her hand again quickly. "Where are we going to go?" he asked her, when she turned around and he could see her pretty eyes again. "There's ice cream somewhere, I think." He had to take a photo of her, he suddenly thought. But here, in front of the station, seemed like it wouldn't fit.


[System]
Age: 17

Normal Appearance: Shin

Brain Burst Installed/Brust Linker?: Yes, though 'Guardian' is unknown at this time.

Avatar Appearance: Avatar

Dueling Avatar Name: Sky Legionnaire

Dueling Avatar Appearance: Dueling Avatar

Rank: 3

Legion?: No

Other: Shin is popular among the first and second year girls, handsome, athletic, kind. His avatar reflects all of this as well, he even managed to manipulate the coding to enable a sword as a fashion item, which he tends to show off with from time to time. In school, Shin is in the top three of his kendo club, and is particularly skilled. He is pretty average on the outside, though he keeps to himself when the girls aren't fawning over him. In the world of Brain Burst, Shin is...well, he hasn't been back to the world for six months. When he used to go, he was one of the crowd favorites, and he had started to gain both a small following and the eye of the Blue King that ruled at the time. His disappearance was sudden, and nobody knew why. For now, his Burst Linker days are over.

---

[User]
Shin didn't have to wait long, as Reimi showed up not too long after having finished what he was typing, "I haven't been here long, actually. I only just got my drink moments ago." he replied. He noticed her stuttering, apparently he had accidentally flustered her in some way. He tended to do that to her quite frequently, perhaps it was the way he worded things? That was most likely it, after all, she didn't exactly speak like everyone else did. Her speech was formal, and he knew it threw others off. He heard what they called her behind her back, when they thought she had no friends at all. She was ostracized by her peers, her juniors avoided her, and the entire school called her Robot Girl. It sickened Shin that people could be so cruel, but then again, that was probably why he approached her in the first place; they were both alike in some way. Sure, he was popular among the junior girls, everyone knew that. But he never associated himself with any of them, always preferring to sit alone and keep to himself. Of course, just like Reimi, he had been ostracized. However, his was different, those who used to be his peers now look at him with disgust. It was 'her' fault, 'she' spread lies about him, and like hungry savages, his former friends gobbled it all up and believed every word. Trust. That was a big thing now for Shin. "Yeah, go ahead and order." he said, giving the girl a genuine smile.

While he let her order, he reached into his pocket, his mind going over what he had typed. He wasn't about to connect to the net, and saying it out loud...well, one of their classmates might show up and overhear them. That was the last thing he wanted. He'd rather continue receiving the looks he got, than to have someone interject and fill Reimi's head with lies about him. No, she was the one friend he would protect from their influence. Once Reimi had her tea, he slowly pulled out his cord and set it on the table, "I...don't want someone overhearing our conversation...so I brought this." he said, his face turning a little red. It was embarrassing to even say something like that; everyone knew two people using a cord in a cafe like this were assumed to be a couple, even if that weren't the case, which it wasn't in the case of Shin and Reimi. "D-don't get the wr-wrong idea, I just...there's something I want t-to send you, b-but I'm not comfortable c-connecting t-to the internet h-here. I-it's in relation t-to what w-we'll be t-talking about..." he stuttered. He needed to get a grip and quickly, otherwise he was likely going to start freaking out Reimi...if she wasn't freaking out already.

[Assistant]
Hirose Reimi

Solstice

Reimi, though socially awkward, at the very least was able to order her tea. The waitress walked towards herself, and Reimi placed her order for the supposed delicious bubble tea that Shin had recommended to her. It was unlike Shin to lie to Reimi. After all, they could be considered friends to say the least. Reimi considered Shin to be one of the few people she trusted. Though seemingly popular, Shin seemed to, at a core like herself, was flawed.

And Reimi understood this well.

No one is perfect. Humans existed as entities imperfect by design. A man's conscience and his judgment is the same thing; and as the judgment, so also the conscience, may be erroneous. The flesh endures the storms of the present alone; the mind, those of the past and future as well as the present. However, imperfection does not imply a flawed self by nature, and a flawed person was not an imperfect person by nature, nor are the two mutually exclusive.

 "Y-yeah of course."

Though Reimi tended to have problems expressing herself, she did seem a lot more lively in the presence of Shin. Though even to Shin it was a bit hard for her to open up completely, in the end opening up slightly was more than even Reimi might be able to confide in her parents, who seemed to almost ignore her entire existence.

Perhaps it was by chance the two met. Though someone not to believe in superstitious things like fate and whatnot, even Reimi considered that day "fateful". If she had not met a person in the sea of nothingness that became her life, and if he had not been able to smooth over her course personality, perhaps there might have been a different future to Reimi's end. The child to endless ridicule due to her natural tendency towards awkwardness and to a degree stoicism.

But to Shin's recommendation, Reimi took the cord and placed it into her Neurolinker. Though normally it was rather embarrassing after all, the only reason why a boy and a girl tended to use a direct link was due to their relationship being that of boyfriend and girlfriend. It was considered scandalous otherwise.

But Reimi considered such notions to be childish in the end. It was simply an exchange of thoughts no different than a conversation. The only reason the two would be forced to use the direct link must have been information a bit too sensitive for even the meager amounts of people within the cafe.

 "So, what did you wish to talk about, S-Shin?"

Though technology will continue to advance, it was always a bit odd for Reimi to direct connect to anyone. Direct connections require a degree of intimacy to trust another for this instance. A Neurolinker was the tool of the future, and to allow strangers into your key to modernism could impede on such processes. And even so, to allow someone to read your personal thoughts required a great deal of trust. But Reimi trusted Shin. At least, she hoped her trust in Shin was not ill-founded.

 "We don't seem to do this often do we? After all, that is what c-couples do. But it is nice to do this sort of thing with you, Shin. It kinda f-feels good. "

Well, it wasn't exactly like Reimi had a dirty mind. In fact, it was rather the ignorance of her statement's wording that lead her to say such an awkward thing through the direct link.

[User]
Kazue leaned forward to push himself up off the ground, watching as the girl he'd bumped into turn her head towards him. Her hair perfectly framed her face, revealing who this person was. When she looked at him Kazue immediately knew who this person was. Her name was Momiji, they've had class at school together in the past years.

Kaz wasn't much of a socialite, and he really didn't have much(if any) friends. The people that he encountered on the day to day basis consisted of his two parents and sometimes his mailman, it wasn't exactly a perfect circle of friends. That being said, anybody else who left any sort of impression on him was usually remembered. Such as his best friend, or even, evidently, someone who knew his best friend.

Kaz lost in thought as he starred at this girl, was pulled down back to reality with a chain that took form as attitude. It took Kazue by surprise to see this girl, who at school, is a kindhearted and friendly individual, show so much bitterness. Kazue didn't see it coming at all, her words 'Watch where you're going, idiot!' stung his timid self.

Kazue was well aware of the persona's one takes on when they know they'll be judged by others, along with being around the people they know. It's very often a person chooses a mask that portrays them as a better person. It's only when caught off guard do you truly see whats underneath that aforementioned mask. Of course, everyone does this. Kazue once read a quote from a book he was reading that really gave him some perspective on how people act. It went along the lines of ' Every person wears three masks, a mask to show their friends, a mask to show their family, and a mask they only show to them self. These masks change over time and are different for everyone...'

Kazue looked down and felt he was responsible for this little dilemma, He was about to apologize and leave the cafe, but more words had escaped the girls mouth. These one's weren't hurtful, however. She explained who she was and that she knew Kazue. It was strange to him, he knew they'd met before but she was acting as they only seen each other before.

Kazue remembers a time when Yoshiro, his best friend who isn't here anymore, introduced Kaz and Momiji to each other. Why now is she acting like that? It was clear Kazue didn't pick up on many social clue, this being a prime example.

"I-I...We've met before..." Kazue said with some hesitance. He was starting to think maybe they had't officially met before, and that maybe Kazue had just imagined such a scenario.

He bit his lip a bit before he spoke again, he wanted to see if she remembered or not. He let out a whisper, only saying one word hoping she would acknowledge or at the very least humor his notion, "Yoshiro??" He said, as if he was asking if she'd remembered him or not. It was a little depressing to hear himself say it out loud, seeing as it was a name that was such a big part of his life.

He looked at Momiji with a confused expression on his face, as if he was thinking about whether or not they have met, or maybe confused at the fact that she couldn't remember.

[Assistant]
Reimi's calm response to his suggestion allowed for Shin to calm down a great deal, That's right, nothing to get embarrassed or flustered about. We're just two friends having a private conversation, that's all, nothing more than that. he thought to himself, picking up his end of the cord. He felt around for the slot and inserted the connector once he located it, opening his window and dragging the document he had typed up to the linked icon, placing it there and sending it to her. "Before we discuss anything, you should read what I just sent you, it has the relevant information on something I've never told anyone before. You will be the first one I've ever told, so please keep what you read between us..." he paused here, his eyes looking away and down into his drink, "...nobody else needs to know." he added, his voice now sad. He remained silent, the only movement that came from him was when he went to sip his drink; even then, he kept his eyes focused outside on the rain. It mirrored how he felt inside. He figured Reimi was just about done reading the document when he finished taking another sip, his eyes finally meeting hers again, though the usual joy that was once in them had been replaced by the sadness his voice held minutes ago.

"I think that's probably why you and I get along so well, Reimi, we both know what it's like to be hurt." he told her. He sighed out loud, propping the side of his face up with his hand, "The game I mentioned, I actually stopped playing after all was said and done, I really didn't want to run the risk of seeing her again. It's also why I don't connect to the net outside of home or school anymore, it's too risky for me as I still have the program installed, so anyone could challenge me at any moment." he paused for a moment. He pointed at her, "And before you ask me, the answer is no, I have no interest in ever going back to that place. Even though it's been six months, the memories still linger there, especially the one involving the last time she and I saw each other. I never imagined in my life I would have to fight her, yet she had no qualms about it. I don't want to go through that again." he told her, lowering his finger. Despite what he said, there was a message between the words. He wanted to go back, he was just afraid he would have to face her, to relive the pain all over again. That scared him. More than anything in the world, did that one single thought alone, scare the living daylights out of him. Even as he tried not to let it show, his left hand shook ever so slightly, and the look in his eyes were that of fear. The accelerated world was his nightmare, and soon, his school life would become one as well.


[System]
Age: 28 (assuming standard human lifespan)

Gender: Female

Race: Naga

Appearance:
 13 ft in total length, Mari's human half is 3 ft from her waist to the top of her head and her tail half is 10 ft in length. Mari has tanned skin, short black hair, golden eyes and pale olive green scales. When out of armor, Mari regularly wears a simple sleeveless tunic and belt over a sarashi-esque waist & chest wrap.

Personality:
 Mari is an odd duck. Half nomadic wild child, half daughter of the church, the Naga is as sophisticated & eloquent as she is blunt & plain-spoken. While she is a firm believer in the core tenets of the church, Mari will quite often interpret them through the harsh & pragmatic lens of a survivalist; frequently leading her to decisions that put her at odds with those who had more 'civilized' upbringings.

Brief Backstory:
 Born & raised as part of a nomadic tribe in the scrub-lands & savanna to the east of Thaln, Mari was kidnapped by slavers in her early-mid teens. After a short but brutal experience with slavery, the young demi-human was freed by Mayonite paladins. Taking pity on the young Naga, Mari was taken in by the church; an action that was met with mixed results. On one hand, Mari took to the core tenets of the dual church like a fish to water. On the other, she constantly fought with the rigidity of it's structure and by extension the structure of 'civilized' society.

 Naturally combative by nature, Mari began training with the resident Mayonite paladins as soon as she was able. When the War of the Red Flag broke out, Mari saw action on multiple battlefields, serving as the squire of a Mayonite paladin in the service of the Iron Rose Knights. Shortly after the conclusion of the war, Mari was granted her knighthood in which she swore her oath of loyalty to the Iron Rose Knights.

Equipment:
 - For armor Mari has a gambeson, partial steel plate covering her upper torso, arms & head and partial chain-mail over the rest of the exposed gambeson. For her helmet she has a sallet with a bevor. She currently has pair of heavy leather gloves as she currently can't afford a proper set of fully articulated steel gauntlets.
 - For weapons Mari has a quarterstaff with a small flanged mace head at either end. She carries a long knife and a hand axe balanced for throwing as backup weapons. In addition she has a long bow, though she usually doesn't carry it unless requested. Her weighted quarterstaff is also mildly enchanted for increased durability.

Skills:
 - A talented tracker, hunter and survivalist on account of her nomadic youth.
 - Skilled in combat with more utilitarian weapons; spears, staves, axes, bows and to a lesser extent hammers & knives. While she can use traditional blades, they are hands down the weapon that she's the least proficient with.

[User]
Fanilly lowered her blade.

The boars had vanished entirely, just as swiftly as they had appeared. Their numbers had been crushed, and they no longer had the advantage of an ambush. Needless to say, they would not be back soon.

Unfortunately, simply defeating them in battle did not answer the many questions circulating in the knight-captain's mind. Just what was going on here? Whoever had hired the Golden Boars had ordered the mercenaries specifically to target Lady Cal.

"... Search the fallen. If there are any who yet live, detain them for questioning," the blonde knight paused for a moment, hesitating, "... And if they are not long for this world..."

She took a deep breath.

"... Ease their suffering, but not before learning what they know."

They needed information, and these were ruthless mercenaries, but at the same time leaving them to die slowly if they had not been killed outright was unnecessarily cruel.

The Iron Rose Knights were a just order, and those who dedicated themselves to justice could not allow suffering to occur without cause, if they could help it. At the very least, this was the ideal held in Fanilly's mind.

As for Lady Cal...

Martiza had attempted to question her over Haelstadt? For that matter, Haelstadt had their head returned to them, and was now standing behind the young girl and seemingly staring directly at the naga knight.

Fanilly had no idea what to make of Haelstadt. She felt that, had Haelstadt been an ordinary, mortal being, she would have failed to guarantee an ally's survival. The only reason they were still alive was because of something she couldn't possibly have known about.

That made it a failure, no matter the circumstances.

But more pressingly...

What was Haelstadt? How did someone survive being beheaded so? Most undead couldn't survive being beheaded like that.

"The crown?" scoffed Veileena, eyes narrowed, "Fine. I'll inform them exactly what I was doing. And I'll tell them everything I did was in service of this country. I'm plenty used to people judging me by the actions of that bastard. I won't be threatened, snake woman."

The young girl seemed to be quite incensed by what she perceived as a threat.

"Lady Cal?" Fanilly called. She had to try and defuse the situation as best she could, to try and get Veileena's cooperation once again. She was their only clear lead, "Surely you must understand, none of us have ever seen anyone like Haelstadt, short of Dame Tyaethe, perhaps."

"Hmph," insisted the grey-haired girl, "I don't know why I should give you an answer after I've been threatened. Apparently I'm supposed to speak to the crown now instead."

"This... this isn't helping!" Fanilly called to the young girl, who huffed again.

"Then perhaps I deserve an apology, if you want me to answer any more questions."

Was... this real? After all that, now she wasn't going to cooperate because of this?

Among the fallen Boars, a large made with wild red hair was still breathing. Given the considerable hole punched through his armor, it was unlikely he would be alive much longer, but perhaps if he was questioned he would be willing to talk.

As for Sir Gerard...

As the stinging sensation ran through his body, the pain impossible to ignore, a voice that would sound somewhat familiar would drift through his mind. It would not, perhaps, be immediately recognizable, but if he thought back to the catacombs, then maybe...

My, does it hurt?

It said nothing else. In fact, was it even real? And yet...

Daze@Crimson Paladin@HereComesTheSnow@Martian@A Lowly Wretch@JessieTargaryen@FlappyTheSpybot@ghastlyinc

[Assistant]
Tyaethe Radistirin

She gave a shrug at that, "I haven't met anyone that would walk around without their head on their own accord. But the best healers can pull off something like that for a little while. With proper rituals and a strong enough mage, I guess you could keep it going for longer."

And Veileena was something of a prodigy there... with all the negative attention that the daughter of a traitor tended to get for magical excellence. Still, she had the power and her family did have some history of mages in general, so if they had something like that rattling around, it wouldn't be the most surprising thing, and they were standing in holy ground without the paladin (or the knights in general) being given any signal to do something, so that ought to rule out any sort of undeath or slavery.

With enough preparation, too, magical effects that would be nearly impossible to sustain as a constant spell (or even annoying to do so) could be maintained with much less effort, even if they might still need input sometimes. Enchanted items tended to be the obvious example--it wasn't like Tyaethe's sword had gotten any heavier in the last two centuries.

[User]
Sir Kherun Zeydria

It was shortly after the call for Reon, during which time Kherun wanted to call out for Mayon, that the Boars called for a retreat. The young white-haired knight was prepared to cheer in victory for his first battle, but was interrupted by a mercenary trying to land one last blow. Luckily, Kherun noticed it is time to deflect the heavy sword. Instead of hitting his neck, the blade struck hard against the plate mail over his right arm. The force of the blow caused Kherun to drop his sword, as a great pain started in his arm.

But Kherun recovered quickly, pushing back the mercenary with the staff in his other hand. As he pushed back the mercenary, Kherun quickly knelt down to pick up his sword again. But by the time that the knight was standing again, the mercenary had fled into the tree line. Kherun breathed heavily as the pain in his arm throbbed. The young knight hoped that nothing was broken and that instead it was just a nasty bruise.

Kherun then looked over the battlefield, praying that no fellow knight had fallen in the conflict. Luckily it seemed that only the mercenaries were littering the ground. But what was interesting was that the beheaded man still stood. And even more interesting was a young man handing him back his head.

Kherun only looked away from the walking corpse when the Knight-Captain ordered her knights to end the suffering of the injured. Kherun was immediately mortified by this prospect, but he was also conflicted as he knew to obey all of the Captain's orders. With a gulp, Kherun began surveying the field. After a few minutes, Kherun was pleased to see that everyone he had seen had already passed away. That was until Kherun heard some mutterings.

The young knight turned to see a mercenary lying on his back, bleeding from several wounds. Immediately Kherun inspected him to see if his druidic magic could save him. But as he saw how fast he was bleeding, Kherun knew he was a goner. Fanilly had ordered to them to try and get information from the wounded, but it was clear to Kherun that this man could not form sentences anymore.

"I am sorry," said Kherun as he raised his sword, "May Mayon guide you to the afterlife."

With nervous force, Kherun drove the sword through the man's heart, ending his pain instantly. The young knight breathed heavily as he removed the sword, now coated in the blood of the dead man. As Kherun stood still, his horse Wedge approached him, as did the owl Watcher fly down to him. As a druid, Kherun had a link to both animals, and they could tell that he was troubled.

Watcher landed on Kherun's shoulder as he led his horse back toward the other knights. As he neared the Knight-Captain, Kherun made sure to stand up straight, sheathing his sword, and grasping his wooden staff securely.

"I am afraid we haven't had a proper introduction Knight-Captain," said the white-haired knight as he walked up to Fanilly, "My name is Sir Kherun Zeydria, junior knight of the Iron Rose. And these are my familiars, Wedge and Watcher."

At the mention of them, Wedge neighed and Watcher hooted. Somehow the animals seemed able to sense that this was an important meeting for Kherun. True enough, nerves shot up and down Kherun's body as he met the legendary Fanilly Danballion. As he awaited a reply, Kherun kept telling himself in his mind to not screw this up.

[Assistant]
Martin Hollowsland

It was definitely concerning to see the knight straight up reattach his own head before marching off to the side of his lady. He knew well what magic was capable of given what he has learned himself but the dangers of what this could mean were very readily clear, another reason for why he had to be as careful as he has.

Meekly he scurried out of everyone's way as a standoff seemed to be brewing between the knights and this other character. On one hand he loathed to insert himself into a growing conflict, even if it hadn't yet come to blows, however he knew that by choosing this path he'd be thrust into conflict sooner or later. Swallowing his fear he slowly minced his way up to the renown knight captain herself, Knight Captain Fanilly Danbalion.

"H-hello captain Danbalion. I- I- I'm Martin, a healer t-that was dispatched to your unit." It was clear he was very nervous speaking to someone as important as her, stuttering and tripping over his own words whilst he was unable to even look at her directly.

"I- if there is a- any need for my service p- please let me know. I'll try and h-help however I can." With that said he bowed deeply, eyes shut tight. He tried to hide the fact that his hands were shaking but it seeped through all the same.

_

[User]
Fleuri Jodeau

It seemed that at least one of the Golden Boars wasn't quite dead. Judging by his injury, he probably didn't have much time left, but it might be enough time to glean some information out of him. Unfortunately, as luck would have it, they wouldn't get that chance. A newly arriving knight swiftly put an end to the mortally wounded mercenary's life. Fleuri might have commended their apparent mercy, if it didn't just deprive them of an opportunity to interrogate the man.

"Was that necessary?" Fleuri interjected as the newly arrived knight introduced himself to Fanilly. "It is ultimately up the the captain, but I would have preferred if we at least had the option to question the man before he succumbed to his sounds. I'm afraid there are still a lot of questions that remain unanswered, and he might have had some of those answers."

They were getting nowhere in finding information. Veileena didn't sound like she was going to cooperate any more than what she had already told them about the shard, and without a surviving mercenary to interrogate, all they could do for now was search the dead for any orders or anything else that might shed some light on what was going on. Once that was exhausted, it might just be best to head back to the capital, to get some answers from the College and perhaps figure out where the remaining Golden Boars might be found.

@VitaVitaAR

[Assistant]
Maritza Verenna
 Staring somewhat askance at Lady Cal for several long seconds, the naga eventually relented with an irritable groan. Equating your actions to those of the man who sired you based on circumstantial evidence alone was out of line. My apologies, Lady Cal." She admitted somewhat reluctantly, shifting to gaze off in thought.

 After letting the silence hang for a minute, Mari eventually shifted back to stare down Lady Cal; crossing her arms under her chest. "Still, I'd like to know why you chose to hire the quiet blade of mercenaries over asking for help from the hammer that we are. Because no matter what direction I approach the question from, I keep coming to the same conclusion. You believe, or know there to be, a group of traitors conspiring against the kingdom from within. After all, why else would you chose to discretely hire mercenaries over the kingdom's own knights for a threat as great as a shard of Angroron?" Maritza carefully probed and queried, closely watching the young noblewoman's body language through the slit of her visor.


[System]
Alias:Currently: Scotty
Age: 35
Gender: Male
Height: 5'7
Weight: 150lbs (?)
Country of Origin: Scotland
Occupation: Ex-Recon, Navigation/Co-ordination specialist
Personality:  Quick of the bat, both a team player (and a team antagonist when the time suits). He has the capability to lead if nobody else will pick up the slack however he tends to follow the pack. His defining traits, which could be marked down as flaws. Are his arrogance and stubbornness. However sometimes, in relations with others. He can rub them the wrong way and cause tension.
Military Record:

Born in 1999, in Aberdeen Scotland he went to Abbotswell Primary school. From there he went to study at Bridge of Don Academy before dropping out at sixteen: Same year as the first Kaiju attack. From there he signed up for what was then the British Army (Prior to the unionization of global forces), getting in through basic training he then went to specialize in force Recon.

Throughout his military career he has done naught but strive for excellence, he has been important in tracking down several cells who "devoted" themselves to many of the Kaiju that came through the rift that had become unruly and aggressive. While he tried to prove himself worthy of being put in a jaeger, however when he was finally accepted into the program and had just begun training the program was scrapped. He went back to being force recon for special forces.

SECURITY CLEARANCE DENIED. SECTION REDACTED.

Now he has been re-assigned to the Jaegar program under the command of the new Marshall.

[User]
Jack 'Bruiser' Murdock - Floor 4 - Personal Quarters
With a growl and a cough Bruiser rolled over in his bunk and reached up to rub his face with his hand. The jetlag was still punishing him after the long flight halfway round the world and now all he wanted to do was sleep for at least a week, but the alarm clock beside his bed had different ideas and its incessant ringing kept him from falling back asleep until he finally pushed himself up and out from under the sheets.

"Alright, I'm up, I'm up!" He said to the antique clockwork menace, quickly flicking the catch to stop the hammer before lifting the mechanism up and carefully winding the key in the back to ensure the coil was tight. The little ritual helped his lagging mind focus, a little reminder of home even all the way out here in the Heathen Lands.

Gently placing the clock back down on the nightstand, tilting it to the side slightly so the face could easily be seen from the bed, Bruiser pushed himself up onto his feet and headed for the can. It wasn't his fault he'd arrived early, the orders he'd been given had been specific about the time and date for arrival but hadn't mentioned anything about the International Date Line, leaving the muscular recruit a day ahead of his plans.

Once he was done with his business Bruiser pulled the chain to flush away his sins and moved to the sink, splashing cold water up into his bleary eyes and taking a moment to examine himself in the mirror. There was some stubble forming there already, but not enough to warrant his attention, so instead Bruiser gave himself a quick rinse off before climbing into his standard-issue flight suit and heading down to the mess hall.

Jack 'Bruiser' Murdock - Floor 5 - Mess Hall
He was still a little rough on his feet, the exhaustion not yet cleared from his system, and as he staggered over to the kitchen to fetch himself some coffee he almost stumbled over a couple of the techs making their way out into the hall. With a grunting apology he pushed himself away from them before taking his seat at the counter and reaching for what he hoped was a fresh pot of mud.

Shouldn't be too long now, he thought to himself, wondering when the training would start and he'd find himself a partner and a Jaeger to match his unique fighting style. Wonder if they'll try to fit me in one of those fancy Strikers, or perhaps an old Cataclysm? As he let his mind wander Bruiser took a long deep suck on his mug, and felt the thick black coffee warming his belly.

[Assistant]
Henry sat in the chopper, a cap lowered over his face, legs stretched out (The most he could in confined space) and more or less let himself drift in and out of sleep on the way to the shatterdome. Though this did little to help his excitement as the chopper touched dirt (Metaphorically). Straight on his feet he moved into line, the indoctrinated part of him immediately had him standing at attention - Minus the salute. He was back in the program. Everything he had done brought him here, since the first Kaiju attack helping him to decide to join the military, all the recon runs. The fighting, pain, joys and thrills all brought him to this moment. Where he'd be tested and hopefully be put in a Jaeger.

One of the oldest in the group, he reckoned his chances were good. Yes like most of them he had no real experience in a Jaegar but he had been fighting longer than most of them. He'd been in the trenches, on the rooftops and behind "enemy" lines. He didn't doubt there were some fighters amongst them. Most of them had probably spent a lot of time in the simulators (Something he had only been in once) but he just hoped when it came down to a real fight, when lives were on the line that they could hold their own. The snow itself, didn't phase him. Scotland wasn't the most tropical of climates in existence, and he was too busy holding back his inner child. "Alright, so we've met the guard dog. We ready to get started?"

((*Note: I am actually Scottish. However I will not be changing EVERY word to the way I would say it. That shit just makes it confusing to read for people, and I'm used to typing without slang (However the occasional tidbit of how I say things will sneak in e.g. instead of now most scots say "The now" for some odd reason.)))

[User]
Mako watched with kind eyes as the helicopters brought everyone to the now bustling airfield. Though the area was small, people seemed to be able to move their carts and small cars around with ease, without worry of smashing into one another as they transported materials of all kinds. From early morning until late at night, the workers were transporting materials, food, weapons, and even people. Speaking of people, the new faces of the Rangers all had a mix of excitement and anxiety written on them. Stepping forwards as they all filed out, she would nod in greeting to those who spoke to her and introduced themselves. She already knew the names of everyone there, but didn't feel the need to acknowledge each of them seperately. She was about to speak when a lively woman came up to them, announcing herself as Tomiko Fraser. This caused Mako to hesitate for a moment as Tomiko spoke to the red haired woman.

When did this one arrive? Mako thought to herself before furiously flipping through the profiles she had on the clipboard in her hand. Stopping on Tomiko's sheet, Mako would let out a frustrated sigh when she read that the woman had arrived days ago along with her Jaeger. It had been signed off by someone in communications. Wasn't a big deal really, but Mako was ticked that no one had told her of the woman's arrival. Casually she flipped through, slower this time, and sure enough she found one more person who had already arrived. The day before to be exact. Jack Gerald Murdock's profile had also been signed off that the man had arrived and been excorted to his room. Mako sighed again. For communications, one would think they actually had told her these two came early. Else who knows how long she would have waited for them.

Still saying nothing for a moment, she would count the number of those who had arrived. There were three who had not made it here yet. Tapping her chin to the top of the clipboard, Mako would ponder wether she wanted to continue waiting or not.

I suppose I can send Jade to get the late ones... she thought.

The silence stretched on as Mako would stare at the group for a few more moments.

"OK. Since it's cold out here, I can show you around a bit." she said, turning and gesturing with her hand for everyone to follow her. Then she would stop after a few steps. "Oh! Where are my manners?" she said turning, her pale face turning slightly pink as she bowed to them. "It is an honor that you all have agreed to be transferred here during this time. I know it must not have been easy. I assume you all know, my name is Mako Mori, but please call me by my surname. Welcome to the Hong Kong Shatterdome." One hand gestured around her. "Where we are now is the Airfield. This is the only way in and out of here. We typically travel by helicopters to get us places, though occasionally we have big jets here if we need to transport a large amount of supplies.

Pausing and then gesturing behind the group, she would speak again. "Directly beneath us is where we keep all of our Jaegers. They are deployed and returned in that entrance. You can see the roof of it from the edge of the airfield, though I do not recommend getting that close to the edge. The engineers and workers all do their best to keep them in working order. I know some of you here will be tasked to help with that sometime soon." Turning after flashing a smile, she would again gesture for them to follow her. "Now, we will go and I'll show you some other important places."

Walking inside after standing out in the cold for, who knows how long, Mako closed her umbrella and shrugged off her long trench coat. She would hand both to a security guard who stood near the entrance, and continue walking until she reached an elevator. She pressed a button and pointed to a large number 1 painted above it. "As you can see, this is the first floor. Like I said, this floor is mainly used for transporting supplies from outside and such. Often you will see a lot of people moving things around up here." When the elevator came up and the door opened, she gestured for everyone to step inside before her. When the group all packed in, she would press the number four button.

"Floor number two is where the Research Division conducts their studies. We used to have such a small division, that we didn't need the whole floor. However, once we began to get more Kaijus appearing, many scientists came forward and expressed an intrest in helping us study them and learn more about why our first attempt to end this war....failed. Now the entire floor is dedicated to that." she would stop speaking as she thought back to that day. That day had been filled with such joy, and also pain for losing the former Marshall... Only to find out that his death had been in vain. It made Mako sick to her stomach.

Clearing her throat, she turned to the group. "Anyway. Floor three is where all training takes place. Not only hand to hand combat, but simulations as well. It is where all of our divisions come together and edit the simulations, as they try to replicate Kaiju attacks as best as they can get to the real thing. In addition to the simulation rooms, there is a fitness room with weights and cardio machines that are open to anyone who wants to stay in shape. There is a dedicated training room where we have our instructors train the younger ones we have here. Oh! And the yoga room, for those individuals who like to handle stress in a calmer enviornment. I personally spend a lot of time there. If you are looking for me, chances are that is where I am."

The sound of the elevator door opening brought her head around and she led the way out. "Ah, we are here. This is the fourth floor." she said, stepping aside and waiting for everyone to follow her. She began to walk down the halls that were lined with doors with numbers next to them. "This floor is dedicated to the sleeping quarters. Luckily for us Rangers, we get a room to ourselves. Many others have to share." She continued to walk and she paused halfway down one hall. Pointing to the left, she would speak. "That is the Marshall's room." She pointed then with her thumb to the right. "That is my room."

Continuing on down the hall, she would make a left turn and pause. "Okay I will assign you're rooms so please pay attention." Looking down at her clipboard, she would read the name out loud and then point to the door of the assigned room. "Henry McTier you are in room 432, Jack Logan you are in room 433, Cameron Arkwright, 434." She would check her paper and turn to Tomiko. "I assume you know this is your room: 435. Valeriya Castus you are in room 436. Syberus Fuchs you are in... 438? Oh, Mr. Murdock is in room 437. Eric Banner is in room 439, and Angelo Ortega is in 440." she finished. Mako would then double check to make sure she didn't miss anyone and then she turned to the group.

"The last floor is floor five... Is it odd that the floors go down instead of up?" she suddenly wondered aloud, laughing lightheartedly afterwards. "Anyways, floor five is where you will find the cafeteria as well as the entrance to the Jaeger hanger. The Marshall's office is also down there. I encourage all of you to rest up and get some food into your systems, feel free to sneak a peek at he Jaegers if you like. The Marshall wants you all to report to floor three, the training room, in three hours. There you will be briefed on why exactly you all were chosen to come here."

Smiling to the group, Mako would hug her clipboard to her chest. "It has been nice to show all of you around a little, but I am needed elsewhere now. Oh, and Tomiko. Since I assume you know your way around a bit better than the others, would you mind keeping an eye out for Mr. Murdock?" she stepped forward and showed the woman a picture of the man that was attached to his file on the clipboard. "If you see him, please tell him we have a meeting in three hours." Looking at everyone, she would bow. "I will see you all soon."

Turning, Mako would make her way back the way she came.

[Assistant]
Henry sighed. He had already slept on the chopper, on the bright side he did get his own room. That was a novelty. Being ex-force recon he was used to putting down just wherever possible. He moved to his room and threw in his duffel bag: After retrieving a smaller bag. After that he walked off in the direction of the mess hall. Walking in he immediately walked over and grabbed a tray. Looking at the trays of, probably cold, food he wasn't impressed. Then again, the Jaeger program was technically military. What was he suspect? And it made the whole thing seem more homely anyway. He grabbed a plate, throwing some cold bacon and beans onto it before moving over to an empty table. Once down he took a can of Irn Bru out of his bag and smirked. As far as he knew he was one of the few scotsmen here, he had to represent.

He closed his eyes as he took a drink. He had done a lot to get back here, last time he had barely started training before they canned the project in favour of the wall (Which was a completely and utter stupid idea from it's inception). At least they realized their mistake, though how long would it take them to get the funding behind the Jaeger program that it needed? Yes there was a lot of collateral damage but it was the only way. And even then a lot of the time Kaiju were taken out at sea, it was typically the higher classifications or more unique ones that managed to wreak havoc and if he got in a Jaeger, nothing was going to get past him. He'd see to that.


[System]
Male | 32 | Human

---

Basic Info

Alias: The Wild Ram

Look: Fiery Eyes and gaudy suit clothes

Heritage: Wanderer

Background: Syndicate

Vice/Purveyor: Obligation: Support his adopted daughter Ohna

Trauma:

---

Stats

Insight 0
* Doctor
* Hack
* Rig
* Study

Prowess 3
* Helm 1
* Scramble
* Scrap 1
* Skulk 1

Resolve 2
* Attune
* Command 2
* Consort
* Sway 2

Starting Abilities: Serendipitous

Special Abilities:

* Daredevil
*
*

"Friends":

* Nyx - A moneylender from a different, but neutral syndicate. They used to go drinking
* Ora - Annoying info broker. Terminal case of dunning-kruger
* Jal - Ship mechanic and Ohna's aunt. She houses the girl most of the time
* Rhin - A smuggler who snuck Even out the night he was ejected from his old gang. Smells strongly of rosemary.
* Battro - Bounty Hunter Even used to employ frequently, now hired to hunt him down. Doesn't talk much.

Equipment:

* Fine Blaster Pistol - Got it from his old boss
* Fine Coat - His lucky coat is highlighter green, although faded with time. At first he hated it but is now convinced it has semi-magical powers
* Trick Holo Cards
* Forged Documents
* Mystic Ammunition - Raided from the office of a defeated rival gang lieutenant
* Personal Memento - Family photo

Bonus Dice

Gambit

[User]
Miranda leaned forward and examined the control panel, running her fingers over the surface of the nearest console.

"It does have a certain elegance," she admitted, forming her finger and thumb into a child's imitation of a gun.

"We drop a plasma blast in the landing bay, Skrivver and his boys get all cripsy, the Hedge execute a pirate chief, the Blackcloaks are leaderless, piracy goes down and we get a ship... everybody wins."

[Assistant]
"That's not how that works, Sugarplum." Even chimed in, finding a seat in the cockpit and strapping in before the overzealous pilot could take off. "Any survivors or friends of the Blackcloaks hear about that stunt and want blood and will gather as much support as they can possibly muster. Even without a leader they've managed to procure a ship like this and will let us just fly off with it. Anyone else who hears about this won't trust you in the future, cutting off possible jobs, contacts, and resources. This is a hot ship. We're in a Hegemony base, abandoned or not. If any shrubs decide to look into the whole situation, they ain't comin' down on our side. And on top of all that, we don't get paid. If you pull a stunt like that right now, the ones you know for sure who aren't winning is us. For now we should be thinkin about springing Gaebril without getting our asses burnt."

Of course, after the job's settled and the checks are cleared, making off with a nice ship like this could be a very valuable asset, but one thing at a time. He needed the cred first. Betrayal could come later when this whole agreement had worn out all of its use. But right now? What would the point be of deciding to plant a sapling only to burn it the moment you finished digging the hole for it.

[User]
Miranda affected an exaggerated yawn.

"Sounds like a marketing problem easily handled. Personally, I'm not too worried about a group of pirates who don't have the balls to spring their own boss," she disagreed fixing her companion with a speculative look.

"But then perhaps the shortage is sector wide..."

[Assistant]
Ito ShiraiLoad(?/?): | Armor:
Stress:0/9 | Harms:

---

---

Ito shot a silent look to the woman, taking a moment to think of a proper response to dignify such a suggestion of betrayal. "Betrayal will get us nowhere, once our deal with those pirates is up you may do whatever with them. For the time being focus on the mission at hand," the warrior stated, agreeing with his other companion for about the issue displayed. After making his statement, he proceeded to walk around the ship to get a feeling for it, allowing the silence to follow him as the sound of the ships engines cut into his thoughts for the time being.

Eventually, he found the engine room, the source of the noise that had dulled his mind to a lovely, momentary silence. Quickly did Ito make himself comfortable, sitting on the floor of the ship and crossing his legs as he kept his back straight. These moments of reflection were rare, especially when he was unaccompanied by the delights of liquor or other dulling substances to make sure that he could not fully remember the past and its tribulations.

[User]
The ship began to lift itself off the ground, pushing no air current as it via a different medium. You could see Rico gaze down at the pirates who watched them with a mixture of haughty arrogance, mirth, or hatred. Despite his suggestion, Miranda's tone noticably chills him and he glances back at her. He gives her a measuring look while Even speaks. You can tell he does not wish to admit it, but Even's suggestion has merit in his eyes. Rico turns back to the controls, confident the team behind him won't resort to infighting and keeping his more private thoughts unreadable. Ito would feel the thrum of the engine beneath him as the ship slowly drifted towards the pressurized hanger bay; a massive wall that opened and closed that separated the inner hanger to where the ships then begin to enter space.

"I suppose that was a no to my suggestion," He says as he flips a few switches, analyzing a 'flight' path for them as they enter the outer bay. He doesn't look to perturbed by it, however. Rico has the look of a soldier; youthful, fit, and apparently a reputable pilot. "At least I know which of you is the coldest."

---

You can take this time to speak to Rico, roll to influence him on anything, or speak to one another in the OOC on plans after the mission.

[Assistant]
Miranda tossed her head and then took a seat at one of the consoles, bringing up some of the video compiler software and beginning to tap at the holographic keys. She began to import footage she had prepared before the mission on the off chance she ran into just this kind of idiocy.

"Perhaps we should name the ship?" she suggested with tart sarcasm tinging an artificially bright tone. She made a show of considering it, looking back and forth between the two other newcomers.

"Perhaps 'The Cowardly Boyscout' would suit you gentlemen?" she asked with pie eyed innocence.

"Or maybe 'Opportunity Lost' is more to your taste?"

Considering that the pirates were giving away a ship for what they were billing as a simple extraction, Miranda might have gone with 'Obvious Setup' but that really didn't fit in with the through line of her other jokes.

[User]
Even ImLoad(?/?): | Armor:
Stress:0/9 | Harms:

---

---

"I'm quite partial to 'Nagging Hen,' myself. Or perhaps 'Overconfident Fool.' You're here the same as the rest of us for the same reason: you need cred, and you need it bad. Probably need it worse than any of the rest of us, so it's funny that you're looking to backstab your employer at the drop of the hat for short-sighted gain without so much to show as payment in advance." Even could feel an impending headache come in if he had to deal with this for a prolonged period of time. If he'd wanted to be pestered for every little thing he did or didn't do, he'd have gotten married and probably end up like his old pal Nyx. Poor bastard would try to stay in the bar as long as possible to avoid her, only to make the tongue-lashing he got even worse.

Even chuckled to himself as he briefly reminisced before he reached into his jacket and pulled out his deck of holocards and began to fiddle with them. Although they were designed to trick suckers into parting with their funds prematurely, he didn't use them for that purpose often these days. He'd been on many ship rides, many of them without built in entertainment and they got drear real quickly. On one of these voyages he had picked up sleight of hand from another passenger. The only people Even cared to show off the tricks to were his family, but it was a good way to pass the time and keep his hands busy.

[Assistant]
"No payment...you realize the ship is the payment right?" Miranda began, wondering if the fool could possibly be that dense. She gave up on arguing the point, he was certainly sexist so why not simple as well. Shaking her head and adjusting her expectations downward she went back to work. The pirates claimed they had taken care of everything, but if that were true they could certainly have just had Rico fly them in to retrieve their boss. They needed a plausible reason to be on the station if things turned out to be more complicated than advertised, well that could be arranged. While she had what she needed for herself, the cameras on the ship itself weren't of good enough quality for her purposes.

"Do either of you have holos of yourselves, preferable something not quite current and at high definition?" she asked.

[Asking for assistance on a hacking roll to create some false documents]

[User]
Even ImLoad(?/?): | Armor:
Stress:1/9 | Harms:

---

---

"Hey, that's not what Schill told me." Even kept the rest of his words cursing Schill for not telling him all the details in his head, not realizing the fact that both Schill and Skrivver had both told him, but he wasn't listening when either of them said so. He couldn't pay the bills with a ship, especially not one he owned with 2 other people who weren't likely to sell it, which meant he'd need to go on another job soon that he really wouldn't be able vet.

"If you need them to make forgeries, you don't need to both with mine. They're already done." Even put down his cards to pull out the forged documents from his coat and tossed them over to Miranda before going back to what he was doing. She could reference what he already had done to maintain consistency with whatever she was planning or just look at them to be sure of their (apparent) legitimacy. "Nice job communicating on our plan of action by the way. I guess we're using fake documents to slip into the prison and then busting the boss out before the whole station can notice?"

[Assistant]
The display monitor on the ship shows everyone the opening of the hanger, revealing an endless void of blackness and stars before you. Rico seems eager to get moving, though there was a nonchalance to him, as if all he needed to see was the image of space to feel right at home. He sets coordinates to the Garneki Station, merely 0.57261 Light Years from your current location and sets the flight plan. "I'm not as intimate in detail on this job of yours as say...well you guys. But I'm pretty certain the ship is the main payment and they'll add a bit more for your trouble to keep you from bailing." Rico informs all three of you as you two forge the documents.

Your journey is uneventful, smooth sailing throughout. In fact it lasts merely fifteen minutes, moving at around 0.001% of your optimal speed with your lightspeed engines. Jumping out of hyperspace, you three see a vast installation, somewhat similar to the one you just left, at least in overt style. The shape of the architecture looks somewhat like a slowly spinning top, with your destination being on the very, very bottom. Rico flies you in effortlessly, speaking to the comm once you're hailed and using a guest's landing code which gives you a limited window to 'park.' Clearly he's done this before and it's lucky you lot recruited him.

You fly in closer and slide into a far more sophisticated hanger than the one you just left. It's guarded by a shield of energy that allows ships to fly in and out seamlessly without exposing anyone within to the void of space beyond. As you park, you get a quick glance of your surroundings on the display. You are located in subsection B16 of the station, with five spots to land in but three are already filled up. You see two Hedgemony troopers casually walking across the inner railing, with various engineers and utility workers milling about fulfilling tasks that would no doubt bore you.

At the very left of the hanger, after you climb the stairs to the walkway, is the entrance to the Station proper, guarded by two more SDO's (Stationary Defense Officers).

---

You are now in the belly of the beast. What is your first course of action?

[User]
Even ImLoad(1/3): Fine Coat(1), Forged Documents | Armor:
Stress:1/9 | Harms:

---

---

Even stepped out of the ship looking far more presentable than he had when he went in. You could even call it corporate in appearance, and his body language changed to match. Although very little had actually changed, it were the little things that counted. His face was clean shaven, his hair tidied up and slicked back, and his clothes were worn much tighter and cleaner. Perhaps if he had more time he could have pushed it further, but he preferred to adapt to the situation rather than dwell on what ifs.

Without waiting for the others to get out of the ship, Even strode forwards to the SDOs and made his introductions.

"Greetings, gentlemen. I and my associates are with the IBHS, Iona Board of Health & Safety. We're a third party organization affiliated with the Hegemony that makes sure that your facilities up to code on the current mandates and policies." Even produces one of his forged documents to add credibility to his claim before continuing on.

"I'm sure you've been filled in on it, but we perform unannounced audits so that we can understand what the state of the affairs truly are, and today is one of those days. However, while this audit will not be exhaustive, if we find 3 major infractions or more, we will have to notify the company and have them perform larger, more rigorous inspections regularly until you pass. Now if you would allow me and my compatriots to pass, when they arrive." In a hushed voice he whispered to them, "Don't pay mind to the scruffier ones. They simply piloted the ship on the way here. You know how those spacer types can be."

---

Rolling Sway on the guards to allow us free access to the station and using a gambit on it as well.


[System]
Age:
27

Occupation:
Driver/ Amateur Mechanic / Appointed "Fixer"

Personality Traits:
Introverted | Friendly | Flirtatious (with certain people) | Risk-taker | Addiction (pain meds from an accident)

[User]
Like many places throughout the world, as the sun begins to melt behind the horizon and the last vestiges of light give way to the shroud of darkness, the whole landscape seems to transform. What could be considered to most a colorful and enriching experience during the day, would slowly morph into something so much more. Perhaps not as vibrant to the eye as one would normally perceive, but rather the other senses are opened up to new experiences of which could be found lurking in the shadows.

Within the urban playground of New York City's Five Boroughs, a place just below the surface of the normal psyche, a "Shadowland" resides, perceived under the light of the moon -from dusk 'til dawn- and only to those individuals brought into its fold. Normal humans live out their lives on a daily basis, many never knowing about the otherworldly existence. But it has been there long before the settlement of man, and it will no doubt be there at their extinction. The Shadowland is but a mirror image of the realm it resides in, but much more exotic yet void of natural color, where just about anything you can imagine may be procured, and where shapeshifting creatures known as "Changelings" exist, serving or -sometimes- enslaving humans for their own interests.

Residentials, businesses, and a myriad of other establishments are a secret home to these creatures, but one doesn't simply waltz unknowingly into this realm. No. These select humans must be invited by a creature who visits the mortal realm under the guise of humanity, but actually lives in the Shadowland, which then reveals their true form.

For the most part, those humans fortunate -unfortunate?- enough to have delved into the ancient, secretive society of the Underworld and are allowed to return to the mortal plane, are stripped of any recollection of where they had been. A void in their memory, which other memories quickly collapse onto, covering any trace of memory loss and maintaining the integrity of the Changelings realm. However, there are those who carry with them a piece of the Shadowland. A fragmental memory you could even call it, and something that, while isn't wholly apparent to the host, conjures up flashes of the otherworld whether in dreams, or brief waking glimpses. Generally, these mortals are hunted down by a Shadowland "memory plucker", pulling just enough from the individual to satisfy their mission, because anything more may cause the target to fall into insanity or worse, death.

If all is successful, then there is nothing more to do, however, if the secrecy of the Shadowland is compromised in any way, or the rare death of a mortal caused by removing memories does occur, it is up to an appointed "Fixer" to clear up any loose ends. Fixers were generally those humans who, for one reason or another, proved their loyalty to those within the Shadowland, and could be trusted to assist in keeping its anonymity within a certain region of the mortal plane. The title of "Fixer" can be given to any human, in any walk of life or profession, but is generally bestowed upon those who have contacts and influence within governmental and local agencies to call upon for assistance. Each Fixer's own memories and knowledge of the Shadowlands existence are slim to none, believing rather that they work for an underground organization who pays them well enough to keep their affairs in line.

No questions asked.

[Assistant]
The day was...dull. Olivia hated dull days. They always went by so slowly. No matter how many things she got done and how productive she was, the clock always felt like it was ticking by at a snail's pace. And no matter what she did to keep busy, the clock would not change how fast it was going.

Then there was there was the fact that the reason Olivia was even a pawn shop owner in New York City was for the interesting bits of life that managed to find it's way to her shop. Like the couples that would barge in before closing in a rush to buy whatever piece of jewelry she had to offer so they could elope. Or the teenagers that wandered in thinking the shop would be a good place to practice their stealing. She even enjoyed the angry strangers that would come along with stories of how a family member pawned something of theirs.

Today, the customers were normal. No new stories to share and definitely nothing interesting about them make the day good or bad.

At the moment, Olivia was taking advantage of the dull and quiet day to organize her inventory. She was rather particular about the way she presented her shop. She wanted her customers to feel comfortable, while also keeping her shop spotless and items placed exactly right. Olivia somehow managed to keep the shop from looking like an indoor garage sale, which she thought was a pretty impressive feat, though she had her doubts others saw it that way.

Olivia looked at the clock. An hour before closing. She gave an audible sigh and placed another old book on the shelf. At least the day was almost done.

[User]
The knock at the window went unheard a few times, along with the muffled voice on the other side, which was anything but pleased. A sharp tap on the glass with the tip of a 9mm handgun definitely did the trick though, as the short-haired driver awoke from a dead sleep, their eyes opening wide to see the man in a navy blue business suit standing outside.

"Shit…" The driver grunted under their breath as tired eyes were rubbed under black RayBans, enough for the mascara around sky blue eyes to smear just a little against olive-toned skin.

"Roll down the fuckin' window." The muffled -but understood- voice of the other demanded, surveying the area for a moment before looking back at the driver, who was adjusting their black, tattered motorcycle jacket which smelled of old leather and motor oil.

"Now."

"Okay, okay, chill man." The driver mumbled as they cranked the window all the way down. There were very little modern amenities with the car, which was a sleek black 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS. Rebuilt by the driver over the course of several years, from junk, to a stylish piece of art, and a beast of an eight-cylinder engine. Most of what was used were refurbished, but original, parts which were hard enough to come by. All in all, it was the most prized possession of the one driving it. It was definitely considered their baby.

"I assume you missed the three phone calls and several text messages?" The man asked, his voice stern as though being reprimanded by a disapproving father. The other looked down at their phone and realized it was true.

"Look, I'm sor-"

"We don't need your excuses, Joss." The man leaned over with a hand propped on the door, and adjusted his eyeglasses. "But you need to get your shit together or you're out, capisce?"

Working for an Italian crime family in New York City felt like working for all the cliche mobster films rolled in one. Sure, they treated you well when you did your job, but you had to endure some of the oddest characters. Some worse than others. This guy, however, was more or less in the middle of that spectrum, but Joss knew there were no real friends in their line of work, just assholes and lesser assholes.

"Yeah, I get it." They signed, lighting up a cigarette that had been sitting on the dash for awhile, and taking a long drag."

"Jesus girl, why do you still smoke those things. Don't you know they can kill ya?" The older man smirked, his yellowed tobacco-stained teeth peaking through dark lips.

" 'They.' 'Them.' 'Driver.' Or just call me by my name." Joss interjected.

"What?"

"Don't call me 'girl'." The other said, blowing smoke out the window and into the man's face.

"Fuck's sake, yeah, I forgot about that 'non-binary' bullshit." The man shook his head. "Look, I'll call you whatever you want as long as you're on time tonight. Remember. Sonny's over on twenty-third. Eleven sharp."

And with that, the man tapped the hood of the car and walked away across the street, disappearing around a corner. Joss checked the time, barely quarter to eight in the morning, so still plenty of time to grab some breakfast, head home and shower, and possibly sleep off the rest of the lingering hangover from the night before. The engine roared to life, and moments later, the car and driver were gone.

[Assistant]
Olivia walked slowly around her shop, examining every item on the shelves and every piece of furniture. She ran her hand along the bindings of old books and inspected old television screens for dust. She knew she would hardly find any, she cleaned the shop every night after closing, but it was important for her to check again.

Once the shop had been properly inspected, she went to the backroom and took note of inventory. She did her best to keep most stuff out front, but some had to go in storage until she made room or found the right space for it. She spent some time making plans for her stuff and making sure items that were pawned were still in good condition for the owners to get retrieve them if she got her money.

Finally, she grab her papers and planner and leave the house for the cafe across the street. The nice old couple that owned it were very sweet and didn't mind her taking up a table for a while in the morning. She ordered herself a small coffee and a blueberry muffin and sat her usual seat by the window.

The coffee and muffin were immediately pushed off to the side and she quickly pulled her long silver hair out of her face. She paused for a moment when she felt the point to her ears, she contemplated keeping her hair down to hide them. Then her hair would get in the way of her work. That wouldn't do. She figured the people around her wouldn't notice anyway, her ears weren't extremely pointed.

She finally opened her planner after getting her hair out of her face and jotted down her usual to do list. She made note of those late on payments and those that were due today. She made note of follow ups and those whose debts would not be collected easily.

Then came her other paperwork. She thumbed through her contracts. The real side of her business. She gave a smile thinking of all of those that owed her and had no idea what was coming to them. She'd make sure to collect soon, since it seemed like almost time to return home anyway.

[User]
The roads were busy as usual for a morning commute through lower Manhattan, and Joss wanted nothing more than to crawl into bed again. Their schedule was all fucked from the last few weeks of working a few different jobs, as well as being the errand monkey for the Esposito family of tax-evaders, extortioners, and all around assholes. It was a tough gig for sure, and there was little room for error, but the pay made it worth the effort.

Aside from work as a "driver", Joss also had been working part-time as a mechanic at a local auto shop. Something that they had a knack thanks to both a dad and uncle who were major gearheads.

With breakfast on the mind and the stomach, Joss stopped at Hector's, a little cafe on 27th that was one of their favorite places, parking across the street in the small lot near a gas station to keep from having to parallel park and risk getting yet another scratch on the Chevelle's midnight black paint. They ran a finger across the fresh blemish on the driver-side door, which happened only yesterday, and cringed at the sight, before turning to walk toward the cafe mumbling profanities.

On the other side, Joss noticed Olivia sitting near the front window and their heart jumped. It was happiness every time she was around, and they missed her a lot. It had been almost two days since they had both hung out, partly because of the workload given to the Driver, but mostly just sucky timing. Either way, it was an awesome feeling to be near a longtime friend.

"Wuttup bitch?" Joss smirked, taking a seat across from her and staring through dark sunglasses at the other who seemed preoccupied with work. "That's a hell of a workload."

They just loved pointing out the obvious.

"Hey chica, welcome back." One of the servers came up to the table. "What can I get ya?"

"Um, coffee. Definitely. And, how about a breakfast sandwich on an everything bagel." The platinum blonde driver nodded, happy with their selection, and gave the server a smile. "Thank you."

"Sooooo…" Joss stretched their arms across the table and fidgeted with some of the papers and anything else that would catch Olivia's attention. "What ya been up to?"