[System]
21
Spanish

Description: Maria has been a magical girl for close to a century now. Although a very distant relative, she was technically born in the house de Borbón, the ruling Royal Family of modern Spain. Her family, while not in direct contact with the monarchs, were still very wealthy of their own means and Maria grew up in need of nothing. She attended the most prestigious schools and had the best education available, indulging in many kind of excess until her 20th birthday.

In 1937, in the midst of the Spanish Civil war, her family's estate was ransacked by a mob of angry civilians. Which side they represented mattered little and Maria never knew. In the village that they lived, their family represented excess and induced jealousy, so when everyone was starving, angry and ready to fight the inevitable happened and the family met it's fate and the hands of angry Revolutionaries. However, not Maria. She lived on through means she could never have anticipated. Before she, too, was killed by angry men something magical happened - a great book appeared before her. It was a dark book covered in ominous symbols and a dark aura, yet Maria felt the need to grab it...and the rest is history. Before the astonished eyes of the people present, María de Borbón disappeared never to be seen again.

A life of undeserving excess led her here, led her to possess this dark Grimoire - The Mythos of the Angel of Darkness, the Devil himself.

She was going to have to atone. Sole inheritor of her family's fortune, Maria traveled to France where she hid for a time, understanding her newly acquired power and coming to terms with it. For the longest time after that she operated alone. She had heard of the academy, but was wary of others. Her Grimoire gave her great powers, but she felt a constant pull towards something she was not, towards what the Mythos represented; Evil, Deceit and many kind of Excess. She could tap in this power, but had to remain strong not to give in, and felt like close relationship to others, magical girls or otherwise, was a risk.

Eventually, however, The Ministry summoned her to come and join their rank. It was not a proposition this time, and she knew it. Maria also knew that her time being able to be on her own was drawing to a close. if she was to somehow fall - whatever that implied - she wanted others to be close by to deal with what she'd become then.

Morning Star

♫

Grimoire:
 • Title: The Devil's Mythos.
 • Classification: Myth.
 • Description: The Devil's Mythos encompass the beliefs surrounding the fallen angel, under his many, many guises through just as many folk tales and ethnic groups. It whispers of promises of power, tell tales of deceits and of great many unspeakable betrayals. It contains the human belief of evil incarnate, no matter the origin or religion. It encompass every fears and has the will to dominate others. Needless to say, such a cursed Grimoire grants much powers - but at the risky cost of becoming what it represents.

Abilities

Morning Star is Maria's chosen title for her Magical Girl persona. The less ominous name given to Lucifer, from the origin before it was the incarnation of all evil.

Her powers, however, are less buried in forgotten meanings and more...to the point. As the bearer of the Devil's Mythos, her powers manifest as one would expect; with Hellfire.

* Demonic Strength: When calling on her powers, Morning Star has access to incredible super human strength and her physical attacks are devastating and deadly to all but the strongest foes - or the quickest.
* Hellfire: Maria can call upon hellfire to surround her in a great tempest of fire, and can direct the flames to immolate enemies around.
* Hellfire: Enhance: As if her great physical strength was not already enough, Maria can call upon the hell flames to enhance almost all of her attacks. her physical attacks would then be delivered with explosive, fiery effect and leave enemies charred and burning.
* Wings of Evil: While she cannot remain in flight, Maria can summon forth two great bat-like wings wreathed in flames to send her a great distance away - like an enhanced jump.
* Beelzebub: Probably her greatest weapon comes in the form of floating sword that looks like a cross that constantly remains floating behind her. The sword is made of an unknown dark metal and seemingly does very little until Maria calls upon it. When she does, she gets engulfed in flames for a time until the fire takes the form of a goat demon, first it's skeleton and progressively the full creature. Only it's upper body shows, Maria standing in the chest area and protected by the flames. When in this form, the Demon wield the great Dark-steel sword, now also wreathed in Hellfire.

[User]
Tesni

Tesni was frankly a bit shocked that anyone was actually listening to her mumbled little monologue. Looking up at Bonnie, she furrowed her brow not expecting to have to justify herself to anyone else, but she also couldn't just leave someone with a misconception about her… especially when she was addressed directly. Then of all things the teacher pulled her into a hug! No that wasn't right. She was the one who initiated hugs, it was on her terms and when she wanted it to happen. The metal arm also made the hug feel strangely 'clunky', but she suppressed the urge to squirm out of it. Instead answering Bonnie's question about her mumblings.

"No… no that's not right. It's not about the boredom of being the strongest. Bon bon, it's about not having the power to be self-reliant. It's well and good to have teammates and friends, but what do you do when you're all alone? It's not about me being weak exactly. I frankly think I'm rather strong, but it's the idea that I'm already strong is a subconscious limiting factor." Tesni was not having a great time trying to explain herself, she felt she was doing it wrong, but couldn't think of any better way to put it than the metaphor that popped into her head earlier.

"It's like… let's say I started my magical girl life as a crude stick figure on a canvas. That's little baby Tesni. Over time, experience and familiarity with my power is like painting a self-portrait of who I am now. Lately I felt like there wasn't much room for me to add more within my 'canvas' if that makes sense. Like I had a complete picture, it's framed and hung on the wall in a gallery." Looking Bonnie in the eyes she got up off the ground and put a hand on her shoulder.

"The point is, that there is the limiting factor of the picture frame. But paint can go anywhere; the artwork doesn't have to stop with a frame. There is the wall it is hung on, or the floor or the ceiling. Why not break free of a simple portrait on canvas and add some landscapes? Make it a mural on the wall?" Tesni quickly felt that her metaphor was escaping her.

"In simple terms, lately I've had a crisis. I've felt as if I had reached the limit of what I can achieve on my own. But Valeria's little speech as shifted my perspective, which thanks by the way Valeria, I really did need that... oh, she's busy with a... new kid? Bon bon, when did we get another new kid? Were they always here? Did I forget about a classmate? Whatever, not important. At least not important to the conversation we're having. Briefly turning to shout after the teacher, Teni focused on Bonnie once again.

"I still want to be independent, that will never change for me. Because I don't like the idea of bugging others with problems I have, but I'm gonna be trying to work as a team because that's a new way for me to grow and improve. So although I won't ask for help... I will offer it. I realise it's kinda an arbitrary line in the sand, but it's making me feel better about the whole thing." Tesni had no idea if she made sense to anyone else, but it felt right to her and that's what mattered.

"C'mon, Bon bon. We're gonna do this whole team up thing. But like… I'm one of those big ice breaker ships. Cracking through the ice, breaking the shell and releasing the gooey weak point centre… whatever, it's not like we have to have everything sorted out literally now. We have time and can figure it out as we go… I talked to much, I have a tension headache at the back of my skull, need a drink."

42nd Gecko

[Assistant]
"Oh! Sorry, sorry!" Charlotte said without actually moving her hand away. She couldn't help it and gave Lupin one more round of pets before finally relenting. By the time she was done there was a small crowd around the latest Marrywell student. Charlotte stepped back as the other girls took their turns admiring and fawning over Lupin. Good; it was better she made some friends now and this early on her first official day in the school. Charlotte simply nodded in approval even if she couldn't join in the fun herself. Her mind returned to the tasks at hand after all.

She had other things to take care of especially when the Ministry expected results on this Roma case. And so Charlotte was gone before anyone noticed, vanished and poofed without much of a farewell. She doubted she'd get one when the others were so wrapped up in their own conversations. For now she'd work out of sight and beyond their notice to make some arrangements. Whatever else the others had to do for the night's class, they would do so and finish up before the morning hours reminded them all this was still a school.

All of the girls were expected to be present and punctual for their classes over the next couple of days. In that time, they'd learn the basic curriculum taught in Marrywell's walls. But beyond the public view and outside of everyday sight, they were learning the methods of their magic and the inner-workings of their Grimoires. Being one of the newer students, Celina was placed in the same classes as the other new girls with dorming arrangements sorted out between them. All of it, including Charlotte's unseen efforts, paid off when the girls were assigned their second patrolling mission shortly after. For some it was their first.

By choice or chance, the girls found themselves gathered in one group at Marrywell's entrance. As per Valeria's homework, each of them was expected to have formed some group of two or three, though Charlotte didn't seem care whatever sort of order they were in today. She flashed all of them, gathered teachers Valeria and Maria included, a wiry grin as they assembled. "Oi lasses, glad you could make it! The Minister's appointed me to look over your patrol for today so let's see if you girls actually learned something the last week, ya?"

A crowd of students were also watching the group depart. It was rare for the Crimson Comet herself to head such thing as just a meager patrol, let alone act like she was a teacher after avoiding the role for years. Naturally it'd cause quite some buzz in the air. Charlotte paid them no mind, spinning around and transforming into her magical uniform. "Remember, muggles can't very well see us when we're transformed, so try not to make such a fuss. Students keep up with your teachers and teachers, try to keep up~" Magical Girl Ozma announced with a wink.

A twirl of her hands summoned a bright white witch's broom that sparkled in sheen with the morning light. Ozma hopped on the length of it with the balance of a skateboard before zooming forward into London with a crimson streak. Her smirk was…slightly off today, something Maria and Valeria would notice. Maybe there was more to this simple "patrol" than the senior girl was letting on but that could only be confirmed if they started catching up.

---

[User]
"What a relief--" she began, before being smacked into the shoulder by Valeria as a sign of what Maria could only describe as camaraderie. Depending on Valeria's levels of awareness, she might notice that while Maria did indeed recoil, she took this hit better than what she german girl might had expected for such a powerful arm. While the tall blonde was completely unhurt, she still brought a hand to her shoulder in fear of vexing Valeria if she didn't. Perhaps a foolish thought born from Maria's lack of social interactions in the last decades, but still.

"Yes, it does seem like Miss Clementine has left us. She is as mysterious as I had heard before, isn't she? Well, Valeria, rest well and see you soon." she said she said with another subtle bow before heading out herself, politely smiling and bidding farewell at anyone who would meet her gaze. The girls were busy in their discussion, and Maria came to the same conclusion Ozma did in that now was not the time for additional interactions.

Time passed, and Maria began teaching along with Valeria. As discussed, they would split the charge of different courses. Maria was a woman of...few words. She was always polite to a fault and followed almost perfect etiquette, yet tended to keep conversations short and to the point, avoiding unnecessary interactions for the time being. She preferred to teach in a hands-off manner. Anything that was theoretical seemed to be her cup of tea, and the times when the Girls would change she would remain unchanged and give advises, pointers and tips as and if necessary. She would leave everything that needed direct interactions and action to Valeria - such as combat practice - and never once in those few days did anyone see Maria change into her Grimoire. If asked why or asked to do it, she would simply say that it is not necessary at this time and leave it at that.

On the day that Ozma gathered everyone at the Academy's entrance, Maria stood towards the front with Valeria. All of their charges were supposed to have chosen teams already, so in that regard they were covered - in theory. Maria did notice something off with Charlotte, but did not care to bring it up yet. She did however looked at Valeria to see if she, too, noticed it.

That alone would not be deranging if it wasn't for what Charlotte told her a few days ago about what was happening. It led Maria to believe that, perhaps, the Ministry expected things to go wrong with this sortie, too. Anyhow, they still needed to go.

(EDIT:)
She knew their students had formed their teams as asked, so she simply faced the group and said;
"As your recently appointed Teacher it is my duty to make sure everyone come back to this Academy alive and well. Keep a close eyes on your partners and each others and remember Miss Weizenbaum's words; Stories are shared in group. I expect to see a marked improvement out there, today - I am certain I will not be disappointed."

Maria turned to Valeria and politely asked; "Valeria, may I ask to ride alongside you in your vehicle if possible? I would greatly appreciate it."


[System]
Age: 15
Gender: Female
Looks:
Blood: Half-blood
House: Ravenclaw
Wand: 10' oak with Veela hair core.
Pet: A pygmy puff, bought at Weasley's Wizard Wheezes
Other: She has been interning with George Weasley at his shop in Diagon Alley. She is very skilled with making the signature Weasley products particularly fireworks and love potions.

Name: Rigel Orion Black
Age: 16
Gender: Male
Looks:
Blood: Pureblood
House: Slytherin
Wand: 12' Yew with a Phoenix feather core.
Pet: A black owl with starry eyes.
Other: He speaks Parseltounge. He is the child of Regulas Black. He never knew his father as he abandoned them before the news was passed on to Regulas. He is also an unregistered Animagus, a black dog, like the uncle he never knew. His mother has discouraged him from becoming close with those in the Black family.

[User] Stella smiled. "I like you." She then opened up the Quibbler, reading a story about some new animal discovery of somesorts. She then looked back up at the two of them. "So, do you have a favorite class? I love Transfiguration. Pip here likes to be turned into a teacup sometimes."

[Assistant] Layla smiled at Stella's comment. When she asked what her favorite subject was she had to think about it for a moment. "I have always liked the Care of Magical Creatures class, though I have to ask something. Does the school really offer a Muggle Studies class, like where you learn about muggles and how they go about their daily lives? I have heard people talk about it but seeing as I am muggle born it has never been offered to me of it actually exists." She knew they were lower years than her but she had a knack for being able to tell who was muggle born and who wasn't. Even the half bloods she could pick out. Muggle borns had a different way of thinking and looking at things that the pure bloods and sometimes even the half-bloods. These two seemed more on the pure blood side of the scale than anything and she had yet to be wrong on the subject so she just assumed she was right and thus figured they would know about the class and whether it actually existed.

[User] Stella smiled and nodded. "Yes! There is a muggle studies. Kids who grow up in the magic world don't know much how muggles think and work. Some people are really interested in the sort of thing. Like the function of a rubber duck. I just like how they look and squeak. Anyways, I like that class, too. My parents are magizoologists. I like dragons. Sometimes I think dragons would make fun pets. But then I remember they breathe fire. My mom likes to talk about thestrals. Did you know they drive the carriages to Hogwarts?" Stella knows that she goes off topic sometimes. But she loved to talk about creatures and all things related.

[Assistant] . "I like Arithmancy, and my Magical Creatures classes. Although I don't know what I want to do with my self though." He loved his magical creatures class, and dragons were some of his favorite creatures. "What kind of dragons do you like?

[User]
Angelis

"Why can't you tell anyone?" Raven asked Elijah thoughtfully, at least now she knew that she might possibly have a chance of not going into Slytherin." No one likes Slytherin though so wouldn't that be a reason that makes Slytherin worse than the other houses?" she hoped that he would continue to say that all of the houses are equal," What are the stereotypes for each of the houses anyway? Also, why are Parselmouths rare?" she knew that Elijah still hadn't answered her other questions but she didn't know how long this train ride was going to take and she wanted to learn as much as she could while there was still time. She knew that she wouldn't be in Gryffindor as her personality had already proven that and she doubted that the Slytherin Prefects if there were such things would be this nice.

[Assistant] "It is hard to choose a favorite. But I would say the Antipodean Opaleye. Such beautiful and gentle creatures. I heard they are easy to tame." Stella flipped through a couple pages of her magazine. "Sometimes I think I might become a dragonologist, or maybe a professor. It is a difficult decision, what to do with one's life after school."

[User] Layla listened to the two speak she didn't have a favorite magical creature, not to mention a favorite dragon. And she had no clue what she was going to do after school. Would she return to the muggle world, go to college and get a job there or would she remain in the wizarding world. She wasn't exactly sure. Though she had always thought that being a professor at Hogwarts would be a fun option. And since the Muggle studies class actually existed, who better to teach it than a muggle born. She kept theses thoughts in her head, focusing her attention on Staz who was staring down Stella's hedgehog. She poked his middle, which he wasn't to happy about, however, it got his attention off of the little rodent.

[Assistant]
"Ya, I don't quiet know my self but I believe that something good will come of this life, you have to right." He saw that Layla had got quiet and looked in deep thought. Both girls were a mystery t him but all he could was smile and be friendly. He looked at he and waved to try to get her attention.

"Hey, so what classes ae you guys taking this year."

[User] Stella sighed, trying to think of all the things she was taking. "Well, I am taking the basics. Transfiguration, Defense against the dark arts, potions, charms, history. Since my third year, I have taken care for magical creatures and Runes. Very interesting subjects. Runes can be confusing. One can easily mix up ehwaz and eihwaz. A common mistake." She flipped another page in the Quibbler. "Also I start taking O.W.Ls this year. I heard they are nerve wracking."

[Assistant]
" It would probably ruin all of the fun if you get picked as a Prefect in your 5th year. I can tell you that one of our jobs is to escort the first years to the dorms. The Gryffindor's are my responsibility again this year, and I just hope that last years events don't repeat themselves; because I'm pretty sure that some of the portraits are still in shock about that boy who almost fell over the railing on the stairs. "

That bloody idiot had been waving to his friend who'd ended up in Ravenclaw and leaned a little too far over the railing. Let's just say that he was lucky that Elijah had such quick reflexes and wand skills.

" Believe me, that bloke I cursed hates pink. On the first day of my 5th year when I attended the first meeting, he said that anyone who dared touch his things or turn something pink would get a nasty curse thrown their way. He hasn't made good on that threat yet, and I'm waiting to see just what kind of tricks he's got. As for classes, first years have a strict curriculum that they have to follow, while the 2nd-7th years get to pick electives and other things. 5th years take exams called O.W.L's and their scores on those exams determine what classes they can take in their 6th year. I'm in N.E.W.T level Herbology and Potions, but pretty much all the rest of my classes are still at O.W.L. level. I'm not complaining though, because those two were the ones I needed for my future occupation. "

Pausing in his words long enough to scold Joseph, he turned his attention back to Raven.

" Magic is pretty much an everyday thing at Hogwarts, and you get to practice as much as you want. Just don't try to turn water into rum. It doesn't end well. Any other questions? "

[User]
Angelis

"How can you nearly fall off a staircase? Even if it does move and I think that I still wouldn't mind being a Prefect, do you get anything for being one? How do you become a Prefect?" Raven thought that the boy that nearly fell off the staircase was obviously thick and hoped that she didn't meet him." By the sounds of it that gut deserved to have his things turned pink, horrible colour, no offence to anyone that actually likes the colour pink but I personally think that the colour suits his personality," she really didn't like the sound of this Ravenclaw boy," what do each of the levels stand for and what's the least level that you can get to pass? What do you want to do in the future?"

Raven noticed Albino slivering slowly towards Brand's white cat but she quickly grabbed him and put him in his cage. She had planned on letting him stay out of his traveling cage for the whole trip but she didn't want him getting hurt with all these cats roaming around the compartment." Why would you try to turn water into rum anyway? Plus, what's so bad about that specific spell?"

[Assistant]
Angelis

" Falling is the easy part, because those staircases can be tricky little buggers. I'm not sure if we really ' get ' anything for being Prefect's, but I do know that we get a badge and have the chance to become Head Boy. "

Elijah chuckled when she said that the Ravenclaw deserved what he got.

" He definitely did deserve it. That sod needed a lesson or two taught to him that wasn't by a teacher. "

Her next question he actually had to think about, because he wasn't sure he could really explain it properly. After all, he might be a Prefect; but there were some things that were better explained by someone else.

" Give me a second, I'm going to go and grab someone who could explain this better than I can.  "

Leaving the compartment and having Joseph give up playing with Gizmo in order to follow, he found himself in the company of a rather large owl and hissed at it before fluffing himself up into even more of a puffball.

" Olivia, can you come and explain something to a first year? I would do it, but I'm afraid I'm rubbish at explaining anything pertaining to exams. "

Olivia turned her attention to Eli after pausing her conversation with Ben.

" Sure, lead the way. "

Leaving Ben in the compartment with Rolf, she followed Eli to the compartment and after asking who she'd be talking to, Eli gestured to Raven.

" Hello! I'm Olivia Collins, 6th year Slytherin and apparent expert on explaining things according to Eli. "

Olivia and Eli weren't exactly what one would call ' friends ' but they tolerated each other and had studied together at one point to prepare for their O.W.L.S.

" The exams at Hogwarts are fairly straightforward and depend on the professor, but if you study and ask the professor what to focus on, it's usually a total breeze. Ben is total rubbish at exam taking though, and it was quite amusing when he told me he forgot what he'd written his History of Magic assignment on; when he'd written in less than two weeks prior. "

Giggling to herself a little and then clearing her throat, she began.

" Anyway, in your 5th year you'll take your O.W.L. exams. Those are your Ordinary Wizarding Level exams and you'll be asked by your head of house before the exams what you plan on being after you graduate. Your choice will help them assist you in figuring out what you need to get on your tests in order to take the N.E.W.T level classes and be able to get the job you want after graduation. Each O.W.L is class specific, and I remember struggling a little in my Theory of Charms O.W.L because I'd put most of my effort into my Potions O.W.L the previous day. If you fail an O.W.L; you will not be able to continue taking that class in your 6th and 7th year. So; if you fail an O.W.L in an elective, you'll have to pick something else for the next year.

Each O.W.L is graded based on how well you did, and professors of the N.E.W.T level classes will only let you take their class if you achieve a specific score. There are 6 possible scores that you can get; three passing and three failing. The passing ones are Outstanding, Exceeds Expectations, and Acceptable, in order from highest to lowest. Failing grades are Poor, Dreadful, and Troll. Any one of the passing grades could get you into a N.E.W.T level class, but you are almost guaranteed a spot in one of those classes if you receive an Outstanding. I'm going to be taking N.E.W.T level potions this year after getting an Outstanding on my O.W.L last year.  "

Pausing to take a breath, she continued.

" The N.E.W.T.S, or Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Test, are incredibly difficult and you either pass them, or you don't. If I had failed my Charms O.W.L and hadn't barely received an Exceeds Expectations, I wouldn't be able to become a Healer. I'm taking 5 N.E.W.T level classes this year and I am going to spending most of my free time studying this year, as will my friend Ben. He wants to become an Auror and he also is taking 5 N.E.W.T classes.  "

Bending down to pet Joseph who was staring up at her, she listened to him purr for a moment before straightening up and moving some of her red/brown hair behind her ear.

" Is that all you needed me for Elijah? "

" Uh, yeah, thanks. "

The poor guy looked like she'd just put him through the wringer and she didn't blame him. Exams were difficult and she knew that he was in the same boat as she was. He had also just barely received an Exceeds Expectations on his Charms O.W.L, but he needed the class for an entirely different reason.

[User]
Rigel yawned as he took a compartment. He always eagerly awaited going to Hogwarts to see his friends. His mother had told him not to get too attached to anyone as they all would probably fade after graduation. He was so tired of his mother warning him to stay away from everyone because of her bad experiences with people. She was looked on as a recluse and maybe a crazy person by the wizarding society. He looked over at Eridanus, his trusty owl. The owl had been with him since his first year. He remembered his mother nearly having a panic attack as she took him to Diagon Alley the first time. She had been in her house since she first found out she was pregnant.

Rylan sat tinkering with the fireworks she had brought. She waited for the train ride to be over. George had told her that she was supposed to set of the fireworks, not only to promote his business, but to make a special celebration for this years new students. He'd said that he cleared it with Headmistress McGonagall, but she was sure he hadn't. Squeak, her trusty purple pygmy puff, let out a soft noise as she slept on Rylan's shoulder.


[System]
Age: 13
Hometown: Ecruteak City
Appearance (pic preferred):

Starter: Torchic
Bio: Shiranui had developed a fascination with fox-like Pokémon from watching the Kimono Sisters performing during his childhood. His favourite Pokémon are Espeon, Umbreon, Delphox, Zoroark and Ninetales. He is generally kind, but has a low tolerance to those who speak ill of his likes. He had been inspired to go on a Pokémon journey ever since he spotted Ho-oh taking off from the Bell Tower at age 8, later catching it during his journey through Johto along with two of the three Legendary Beasts.

Having experienced the wonders of the Kalos Region, Shiranui had conquered the Kalos League and was added to the local Hall of Fame after defeating their Elite Four as well as the local champion Diantha.

[User] Shiranui was watching Liam's battle in the stands and when he heard concessions being sold he looked over with interest and saw none other than Jessie, James and Meowth of Team Rocket selling the concessions. "Last time I saw those three, I had to rescue Liam and some stolen Pokémon before the Kalos League grand final," he mused, debating on whether to buy anything from them, "It has been one crazy year since we crossed paths and considering they're not that bright (except maybe Jessie), they may not recognise me."

[Assistant]
In fact, Team Rocket noticed Shiranui, and were hoping he didn't recognize them.

After the reprieve was finished, the field was replaced with a meadow based one. Ash sent out Goodra. Liam sent Sherlock back out.

Liam-vs-Ash
Deralgle-1-Snorlax
Alakazam-2-Charizard
Pikachu-3-Sceptile
Delphox-4-Goodra
?-5-?
?-6-?

"Goodra, use Dragon Pulse!" Ash called.
"Protect!" Liam ordered. The green shield absorbed the dragon move.
 "Ice Beam!" Ash ordered.
 'Confusion!" Liam commanded. The Ice attack stopped cold in its tracks and than did a 180 and barreled toward Goodra. It hit, but did not freeze Goodra. Ash called for Dragon Pulse again.
 "Mega Evolve and use Psychic!" Liam said activating the keystone. Sherlock Mega Evovled and made the move curve around him and hit the ground harmlessly.
 "Use Dragon Tail!" Ash ordered. The attack flung Sherlock out of the battle and dragged Scarlet back out.

Liam-vs-Ash
Deralgle-1-Snorlax
Alakazam (Mega)-2-Charizard
Pikachu-3-Sceptile
Delphox-4-Goodra
?-5-?
?-6-?

"Scarlet, Mystic Fire!"
"Goodra, Dragon Pulse!" The attacks soared across the sky and both hit their targets, resulting in another double knockout.
Ash sent Pikachu out and Liam called on Sherlock once more.
[br]

Liam-vs-Ash
Deralgle-1-Snorlax
Alakazam (Mega)-2-Charizard
Pikachu-3-Sceptile
Delphox-4-Goodra
?-5-Pikachu
?-6-?

"Pikachu, Quick Attack!" Ash ordered.
 "Calm Mind!" Liam called. Sherlock focused and Pikachu ran up and bashed into the Mega Alakazam.
"Now, Thunderbolt!" Ash called.
"Protect!" Liam called.
 Ash than ordered for Iron Tail to be used.
 "Catch it and use Ice Punch!" Liam called. As Pikachu ran up, Sherlock grabbed Pikachu by the tail and slammed a frigid fist into Pikachu's gut and than tossed him back toward Ash. Pikachu was frozen solid.
 "Now, Psycho Cut!" Liam called. The shockwave of power pierced through the Ice and hit Pikachu. Pikachu got back up.
 "Do you want to take a break?" Ash asked Pikachu. Pikachu implied 'No', so Ash said to use Electro Ball. Sherlock was hit by it.
 "Now, Flash!" Liam called. A blinding light briefly shot across the battlefield, forcing Pikachu to close his eyes. When he reopened them, He had lost sight of Sherlock.
 "Pikachu, Thunderbolt all over the battlefield." Ash said. Pikachu let the voltage go all over, zapping Sherlock in the process.
 "Energy Ball!" Liam called.
 "Grab onto its mustache and use Thunderbolt at full strength!" Ash said. Both moves worked, Sherlock was KO'd and replaced by Jiriya the Greninja.

Liam-vs-Ash
Deralgle-1-Snorlax
Alakazam (Mega)-2-Charizard
Pikachu-3-Sceptile
Delphox-4-Goodra
Greninja-5-Pikachu
?-6-?

Liam called for Night Slash and got a critical hit, finishing Pikachu off. Ash ran out onto the battleground and picked the electric mouse up.
 "Pi...ka...pi.." Pikachu said weakly.
 "It's alright buddy." Ash said. "You fought well, just leave the rest to Greninja." Ash returned to his box and sat his bag down for Pikachu to lean against.
 "Greninja! I choose you!" Ash called as his final Pokémon took the stage.

Liam-vs-Ash
Deralgle-1-Snorlax
Alakazam (Mega)-2-Charizard
Pikachu-3-Sceptile
Delphox-4-Goodra
Greninja-5-Pikachu
?-6-Greninja

"Jiriya, Power up Punch!" Liam called. Jiriya charged toward the other Greninja and smacked him across the face, upping his attack in the process.
 "Greninja! Let's do it!" Ash called.
 "Ninja!" His Greninja agreed giving a thumbs up. A tower of water rose up around Ash's Greninja and when it dispersed, Greninja had taken on a few physical characteristics of Ash's. The whole stadium was in a stunned silence over this, save for a red haired girl and purple haired boy who were taking snacks to people in the stands. Their Wobbafett and Meowth weren't phased by it either. Liam quickly regained his composure.
 "Cut!" Ash called.
 "Night Slash!" Liam ordered. The two ninjas began a sword battle, that looked like something from a shonin anime, acrobatic movements included. Many attacks were exchanged back and forth. Many times Water Shuriken rained down on the stadium, eventually turning the meadow into a swampland.
 "Cut!" Ash called.
"Shadow Sneak!" The priority move went first. The cut than phased through Jiriya, much to Ash's astonishment.
 The MC than announced that Jiriya has the ability Protean, which means whenever he uses a move, his type changes to match it before it is fired off.
 "Now, Night Slash!" Liam called.
 "Water Shurkin!" Ash commanded. Jiriya slashed the watery projectiles as they approached, making it to the transformed Greninja and hitting it. Ash felt a twinge of pain in his right arm, in the same spot his Greninja was hit.
 The acrobatic stalemate between the two ninja frog Pokémon went on for another five minutes with no winner in sight. It eventually came down to both fighting with a blade conjured with Cut again, with Jiriya eventually coming out on top, staying up just long enough to give Liam the win.

The MC stated that there would be a two day break for the finalists to get ready. The showed the two finalists' pictures on the jumbotron.

1 Shiranui Tsukiko 14 Liam Coleman

[User]
Shiranui went out of sight, called Zoro out and had the Zoroark buy two of each item from Team Rocket. Zoro assumed the guise of an average-looking member of the audience and went off to make the purchase. While he waited, he thought about who giggled in his mind earlier. "I've been looking all over for you, moon child," a feminine psychic voice spoke. The legendary Latias made herself visible right next to Shiranui.
"Latias?" Shiranui whispered.
"That's me," answered Latias, "I want to come with you on your journey so I'll be with my brother again."
"I'm fine with that," replied Shiranui, opening his bag and showing Latias his Poké Balls, "Take your pick." Latias looked through the bag and picked out a Great Ball.
"This one reminds me so much of my dear brother," she stated.
"That it does," Shiranui agreed. Latias tapped the capture button and was caught within seconds. "Welcome aboard, Kakureru."

[Assistant] Liam caught up to the disguised Zoura. He recognized Team Rocket instantly. He seriously thought about blowing their cover.

[User] Zoro bought the goods Shiranui asked for and Shiranui himself stepped out to meet up with his disguised Zoroark. "Thank you, Zoro," he said, "Liam, snack time!"

[Assistant] "Thanks." Liam said taking sone snacks for himself. He began to tell Shiranui that he saw Team Rocket selling concessions, and part of him wanted to expose them.

[User] "I'm glad you didn't at that point in time," replied Shiranui, returning Zoro, "Wait until they strike before we pursue them—if it ever happens. Right now, they're only selling snacks and making an honest Pokédollar for once."

[Assistant] "Yeah, we just need to watch them." Liam commented. "Well, we should head to the Pokémon Center and heal up."

[User] "Indeed," Shiranui agreed, "That Wally sure was a challenge."

[Assistant] While at the Center Liam was sitting at a table as he pondered what six to use against Shiranui. A man in blue and wearing shades approached him while he had Joy page Shiranui to the table.

[User] Shiranui sat at the table curious about the man in the Alolan shirt.

[Assistant] "Ah good, you're here Mr. Tsukiko." He said. "Now, I can begin. My name is Scott. I go around to regional tournaments and scout out powerful trainers, and I think the both of you fit the bill." He said. "That is why I am inviting the both of you to partake in The Battle Frontier. A group of seven facilities, dotted across Kanto."

[User] "Sounds like a fun challenge," Shiranui accepted.

[Assistant] "Great." Scott said. He told them that the first facility would be near Cerulean City.

[User] "Thanks for the info," replied Shiranui.

[Assistant] "No problem." Scott said as he stood up. He mentioned that he had to go take care of preparations for the duo to take on the Battle Frontier, and wished them both luck in the final.

[User] "See you around," replied Shiranui. He turned to Liam and said, "We should prepare for the grand final."

[Assistant] "Yeah, we should." Liam agreed. A Nurse Joy walked up and greeted them both. To be specific, this was Liam's mother, the Joy from Blackthorn City.

[User] "Hello, Nurse Joy," Shiranui greeted back, "Is Florence looking after the Pokémon Centre?"

[Assistant] She explained that one of her sisters is watching the Center. Liam got up and hugged her. She had heard from the local Joys that the finals were happening in a few days, as well as how well hey had done in the Grand Festival. She wanted to come watch the final, and bring them something that they may find helpful in future contests. She had four slightly blue tinted spheres, and an abundence of stickers. She explained the are used for contests, primarily in Sinnoh. "All you do is insert the pokéball into the sphere, and put one of the stickers on it" Joy explained as she did what she was saying. She placed a heart shaped sticker on the ball. "And than jus call them out." Joy tossed the ball into the air. Instead of exiting the ball like normal, the energy molded into a heart shape and Florence the Blissey emerged from it.

[User] "They'll certainly come in handy," Shiranui agreed, "Especially since we planned to go back to Kanto to take on the Battle Frontier. I heard there are some contests over there as well."

[Assistant] "Thanks mom." Liam said hugging her. After a bit more conversation and caching up, Liam went to decide his team of six to use in the finals.

[User] Shiranui thought over which six of his Pokémon he would use in the final. He knew two likely choices having witnessed their captures so he would need six of his best for the battle.

[Assistant] Liam was trying to take in consideration Pokémon that he felt Shiranui would be likely to use in building his team.

[User] Shiranui decided on his six. He'll have to be at his A-game if his hunch was correct.

[Assistant]
Two days passed, and it was sundown, time for the final match.
 "Both of these young trainers have fought hard out of the over 300 contenders at this tournament, along with a handful of accomplishments apiece." The MC announced. Now we bring you the Evergrande Conference final! "In the Red corer, from Blackthorn City Johto! Kalos' Battle Maison Grand Duke and 'Dragon Master', Liam Coleman! In the Green Corner, Hoenn's new Top Cordinator and Kalos region Champ, Shiranui Tsukiko!" The crowd cheered with enthusiasm with each name. Once both trainers were in their respective boxes, their images came up on the screen, each accompanied with six blank circles for their Pokémon.
"Pidgeot! Time to shine!" Liam called.
Liam-vs-Shiranui
Pidgeot-1-?
?-2-?
?-3-?
?-4-?
?-5-?
?-6-?

[User] "Hoshi, I choose you!" Shiranui sent his Starmie out.


[System]
Appearance: Short sun bleached hair and heavily tanned skin. 5' 1" , Pudgy

Age:14

Personality:
 Outside of the Archer, Krista is cheerful and optimistic. However she honestly feels that it is better to be blunt now rather than mince words and wait for a misunderstanding to form. This has led to more than a few hurt feelings with her peers. While she does enjoy group activities, she shies away from one on one interactions. However she is noticeably colder when preparing for a mission or in the Archer, sometimes dismissing personal and emotional problems with derision.

Motive to live: Revenge, protect her remaining family.

Background:
 Krista was on a docked cargo ship owned by her cousin Richard when the Cruxi attacked her home-world. Richard locked her and cousins Jess and brother Martel into the ship's security room while the ship tried to deal with the influx of refugees. Between the security feeds in the security room and news broadcasts, she had a front row seat to the chaos the Cruxi caused. In addition, watching her family home get destroyed while she watched imbued a sense of helplessness that sent her spiraling into despair.
 While a few members of her family managed to make it off the planet safely, it wasn't until she learned of the Framewerk program that she managed to pull herself out of her depression. Now she can do something. Now she doesn't need to sit idly by watching others die.

Notable Deaths:
 Her family's farmstead was destroyed as she watched through the video call Martel had made in a desperate attempt to warn their parents. She also remembers watching as the ship she was on left people on the ground as it took off.

Framewerk Code Name: Archer

Source
(Just pretend that the guy isn't there. This is more for the general shape of the machine)

Signature Weapon System:
Anti Material Projectile - Thermal Type(A.M.P.T.T.) Cannon, also known as the Slag Cannon. This is a modified rail gun that can fire superheated metal, typically tungsten, to melt through armor. The large amount of heat this generates limits the (Safe) firing rate for the weapon. Typically a technique known as "Time on Target" is used to increase the effectiveness of the first shot by following it up with one or more conventional rail-gun shots. The Archer's Prometheus Fire Control System automates the rapid loading and firing of these follow up shots, but they are more inaccurate than the initial shot due to recoil.

Secondary Weapon System:
Prometheus Fire Control System:
This system allows the Archer to track and predict enemy movements to a limited degree. While it isn't true prescience, it uses an advanced suite of sensors and adaptive computer models to develop the situational awareness to predict a target's movements. The system is also designed to learn from experience, so the more it is used the better the predictive models get and thus the system becomes more effective. It is primarily used to help the Archer's pilot to aim the main gun and handle the reloading of the main gun. The actual aim adjustment and pulling of the trigger are still done by the pilot. While it allows the Archer to accurately hit targets at remarkable ranges when both the target and Archer are stationary, movement of either the Archer or target reduces the accuracy of system remarkably. Typically this reduces the system to providing predictions (i.e. 80% of the shots fired will land in this particular area) of likely points of impact in most combat situations.

Hornet Nest Point Defense System:
Primarily a defensive system, there are several hidden missile pods located all over the Archer. At a moment's notice one or more missiles can be fired off to intercept incoming enemy fire with kinetic impact weapons, which are essentially large darts. While this is mainly to protect the Archer from return fire while on the move, the system can attack other targets such as airborne threats with less efficacy as the Hornet Nest missiles lack the explosive damage of conventional missile load-outs.

Armor Type:
Heavy. The heavy hitting nature of the main gun puts the Archer at the top of the enemy's list of targets, necessitating heavy protection. The Archer has been equipped with experimental armor that gives the same protection as conventional heavy armor while still allowing the heat from its main gun to dissipate. However the Archer still requires support to deal with close range engagements, as it is slower than most bipedal Framewerks and lacks a strong close range defense.

Special Ability: N/A

Current Synchro: 80%

[User]
"Attention all Cadets, the mock battle is hereby over... you all performed as I expected you to do, which isn't saying much. Others performed better than I expected them to!"

Breathe in... breathe out...

"Oh, and one more thing... You all failed the mock battle. Reflect on your failure while you wait," The voice finally cut out with a mocking cackle.

"You would," Lora whispered within the confines of her emergency pod. The old man had approached the pilots with a vague, twisted announcement of a mack battle in order to test the factors that would make one of them the leader. Those factors, he made no effort to make clear, tested by a battle with also no obvious purpose made clear. He asked essentially nothing, and so the not-so-good doctor got essentially nothing. And then he laughed at them, because that was exactly what he was expecting of a couple of especially prodigious teenage Framewerk pilots.

Yes, he was the old rat that brought this project for the Framewerks into creation, but he was an old rat all the same. Why put him in charge? Why should the old even begin to dare have control of what they believe is best for the young? It was a classic conflict that began to seriously heat up in the second half of humankind's stay on Earth, with little learned from it.

It's a good thing Lora wasn't fighting for his sake, then.

"Hey Lora, could we... talk?" The receiver in Lora's headset rung meekly, Elora's tone seeming to have shifted back to its state prior to the battle. "There's something I need to say..." Lora didn't respond. She had a lot on her plate already, and this otherwise quiet soul didn't need to get caught in the middle of it.

"...I'm coming over," The voice on the intercom concluded, and cut out. Silence again. The pilot of the Caliburn sat still as ever, now ruminating on the battle some more.

Stukov was technically their first casualty, but in a dishonest way - he died before the battle could even begin, harnessing powers that nobody seemed to truly understand. Based on radar readings, Miles had been next to fall, the cocky lone wolf meeting some form of comeuppance by apparently not wearing his suit properly. Lora was having her doubts that the boy would make the grade to be in the team after this orientation, but now he had to be outright crippled. But that's just what happens when one gets too self-righteous.

Her thoughts turned back to Daemon's destruction. She was still curious as to what exactly led to Stukov's death like that. Lora was aware that his Synchro Rate was outstanding, nearly at 100%. But perhaps 'nearly' wasn't enough. Maybe he was trying to unleash that power before he was actually capable of wielding it. If only there was any salvageable evidence from the Daemon's wreck, there might yet be some answer.

A light knocking resounded on one of the capsule's walls. The pilot within turned her head to the side it came from, an eyebrow raised. "Umm... I'm sorry for what happened. I didn't know what overcame me. It was...scary." Elora, again. Lora sighed. She felt like an older sister who's younger sibling was coming over to apologize over a spilled glass of milk.

Lora began, "Don't think you did anything wrong. In a real battle, against a real Cruxi, what you did right there was exactly what you needed to do. You're just concerned because I'm not a Cruxi, and that's fair enough. It's nothing to apologize over." Her voice rung over herself inside the sealed metal pod, echoing to the outside world. Why she wasn't just opening the capsule to speak more clearly was anybody's guess.

Maybe she just wanted to be alone. But then again, perhaps she shouldn't be. One's own thoughts could prove quite dangerous in over-exposure.

[Assistant]
Mai was about to move out of Zone E after the Anzu's escape when her Setsuka suddenly lost power. Immedately understanding, she merely braced herself and even twisted her mech in a way so that it fell back first into the ground.

After the hit, she kept her eyes closed...waiting...then the comm line came on...

"Attention all Cadets, the mock battle is hereby over... you all performed as I expected you to do, which isn't saying much. Others performed better than I expected them to! Oh, and one more thing... You all failed the mock battle. Reflect on your failure while you wait", the individual said with a laugh.

"...Understood sir...Mission failed...", Mai droned in the open comm link.

...and I deserve it...I became inefficient..., Mai thought to herself.

Opening the cockpit, Mai climbed out and simply sat on the torso of the Setsuka, still in her pilot suit and black helmit though the "visor" part was a red color. She did check two things there were in place as well in the cockpit. Something she hid under the pilot's seat where no one, not even her team of scientists and engineers, never thought about looking before this whole mock battle started.

Mai had just strapped a utility belt of sorts on her waist. On it were a few pouches that held some nutrition bars, a bottle of water, a synringe with some unknown medication in it. But what stood out more were the hostler holding a pistol and another holding a combat knife. It wasn't a "live" mission but even for something like this, Mai always felt it prudent to be prepared even if others thought it wasn't necessary.

Hearing that there will be a pick-up, Mai simply continued to sit there, eyes closed...as if trying to be aware of her surroundings.

[User]
When the suits were shut down, just like before when his arms were remotely controlled, the frame activated the full extent of his defensive systems, drawing in all the limbs as it crashed to the ground to minimize damage to them both. This also had him tolling about like an egg on the field for a few miles as he was in full afterburner when the kill switch went off. Thankfully his pod had the heightened protection of folding him into a fetal position when this all started.

With the frames sitting around waiting for pickup, he activated the comlinks to all.

I just wanted to take a moment to say 'thank you' to you all, regardless of what these fools say, I would be honored to fight beside you all in the war. He may have wanted us to be bloodthisty assholes, but if we are to become monsters to fight the monsters, then we loose our humanity. The very humanity we are trying to save.

[Assistant]
Krista was steadying herself as she followed the Anzu around to Zone A. It each slowed to a stop in the middle of the open field. Still wary, she mumbled "What are you getting at?" Suddenly a notification that the Archer's remote control systems had been activated. Realizing that command had deemed the Archer too damaged to continue, Krista became acutely aware of the fact that she was on top of a tall column. Therefore she took a moment to lower the belly of the machine to the ground so as to avoid it crashing down.

What she didn't expect so soon was to see the other Framewerks coming to a stop. Soon the Professor's voice came on over the radio. "Attention all Cadets, the mock battle is hereby over... you all performed as I expected you to do, which isn't saying much. Others performed better than I expected them to!" he laughed. "Leave your Framewerks where they are at, the mechanics will retrieve them. There will be choppers shortly to escort you all back to the base. Assemble at the briefing hall and prepare for hearing your results." There was a pause before he started up again, this time more serious. "Oh, and one more thing... You all failed the mock battle. Reflect on your failure while you wait,". Lorenzo turned off the channel.

That last line got at Krista. She couldn't help but feel that they were going to lay into her at the debriefing, since she was the one to suggest teams. Still, there was not much she could do about it right now. As she shook off the disorienting feeling of moving from four legs back to two, Romeo chimed in over the line. "I just wanted to take a moment to say 'thank you' to you all, regardless of what these fools say, I would be honored to fight beside you all in the war. He may have wanted us to be bloodthirsty assholes, but if we are to become monsters to fight the monsters, then we loose our humanity. The very humanity we are trying to save."

 "Yeah, it was nice to fight with you too. See you back at base."

Watching the scene unfolding around her through the Archer's video feeds was getting her antsy. Krista pulled out the portable radio set and a set of binoculars from the Archer's survival kit and made her way out of the cockpit. Sitting down on the Archer's head, she started to survey the area with the binoculars. With the sounds of the helicopters closing in, she could only marvel at the view.


[System]
Age: 30

Species:

Black Jaguar

Height: 6"3

Appearance:

Anna stands a few inches shorter than Max, though the feminine feline is no less a presence when she enters a room. Anna is slim, yet muscular, possessing phenominal cardiovascular ability that gives her the ability to keep going, and going like a beast possessed- parkour, climbing and running are in her repertoire, and make her a terrifying opponent in a one-on-one, even in spite of her shorter stature. Her hair is as black as her skin rather than grey, kept exceptionally short and making her ears more prominent than her practically kept hairline. The spots on her skin are even a muted tone, with scratches along her arms and legs from vaulting and running. She often wears a balaclava while at work, or a black beanie hat, a different choice to the typical baseball cap used by recon teams. A significant scar runs along her abdomen, where she was stabbed by an insergent.

Her voice is a silky, yet deep tone that mostly remains quiet, harsh upon being raised and hardly something pleasing to hear when she calls out, an accent and tone akin to afro-brazillian Portuguese, and lot more street-ready. Whilst possessing a roar, it's considerably different to Max.

---

Personality:
Positive Personality Traits: Honest. Fearless. Good at listening. Straight talking. Patient. Very Calculated. Nigh-unbreakable.
Negative Personality Traits: Aloof. Blunt. Cold-Blooded. Ruthless. Sarcastic.

Likes: Danger. Quiet people. Stealth ops.
Dislikes: Interference. Needless social contact. Working with others.

Anna is incredibly cold, ruthless and capable, almost driven by some sort of energy that eminates from her shy personality. She seems to have not drawn any boundaries for her pain nor her lack of ability to do something - pretty much anything is doable to her, but as such, it makes her usually alone in that activity, and happier for it. Anna is a good listener, wise and very street-smart, able to sit and blend in, or go all out when the time comes. Perhaps not a lovely person, a bit awful to most.

That said, she can make incredibly warm friends- though you know the sarcasm goes up to 11 if you're really close to her. Max and Cat are two in particular, people she would give out her close life details to, such is her respect, and once you learn that bit of her, she's easy company to keep.

---------

History:

Born on a poor housing block in the capital of Solernia, Anna Marina Caldeira was born to the very opposite of silver spoon that Max was born into, brought up by her policewoman mother in the absence of her father as an only child- her father being someone Anna hasn't seen since her fifth birthday. She was always a shy girl, the jaguar brought up in a violent, often turbulent background and constantly living in fear. Anna did not do well in school as a result even in spite of her cutting mind and fighter's attitude due to having poor and confrontational behaviour, a defense mechanism of sorts- it burned her at every opportunity and the only reason she perhaps made it as far as she did was the intervention of after-school athletics and boxing programmes and her mother's gritty attitude. Anna was shy, but a fighter and completely fearless- and told from day one to always do whatever it takes to survive, and more than that, do better.

Upon turning 19, Anna joined the RSDF as an infantry soldier, and her phsyical talent from her school athlete days carried her easily through basic, as did her talent with a rifle. Anna was incredibly capable, but incredible difficult to work with. Her unrelenting discipline got her scolded by squadmates, and she was almost unworkable as a strict, cold character in the group. Yet her talent in a fireteam on peacekeeping missions meant that she was selected to go forward for Special Forces training, and here again, she got in with flying colours. Particular credit was given to her ferocity in the assault courses, aerial insertion work and her resistance to torture as well as her talents in stealth, where Anna left many men behind for dust. The girl was unbreakable- almost as if something was driving her, her drive and willingess to do anything it took almost too alluring to resist.

Yet Anna through this time appeared to be repeating the same mistakes, when assigned to different SOF teams. Except this time, the brass made one little difference. The street girl from the estates was an exceptional talent at being the "grey" operator Special Forces Command craved, and had every talent nailed that they wanted. Not the kind that worked in an ordinary team. Inserted in domestic anti-terrorist teams or with the Intelligence Services, Anna was used as a lone wolf, a deniable operator who could kill, hurt and cause pain as a one person unit. Sent into foreign nations with the Solernian Intelligence Services, "Spectre" had no qualms doing things other oprerators would balk at or, be terrified of. Those who knew her knew she was awkward, difficult to work with, and almost impossible to manage. But when she worked, she did things most infiltrators wouldn't dare- absolutely and completely ruthless about her job. She didn't care who she killed. Duty, control and getting the mission done meant saving lives. Even if it meant doing something truly awful.

Max handpicked her upon hearing that the SIS no longer required her services, and while the two did not intially get on, through a mixture of sarcasm, wit and humour, the two learned to handle each other as two weird and quirky people- tempering each others' flames, Max the playful and resourceful lion, Anna the ruthless and cold, sarky jaguar of the team. They worked together for two years, through hell and high water, and whilst not getting the promotion she deserved, has stayed with Max out of loyalty.

In her last deployment in the civil war, Anna was stabbed by an hidden insergent whilst clearing out a complex in the hunt for the mysterious Silent Line figure, rescued by Catriona yet able to direct Viper to assist and get her out after being dragged unconcious by the insergents, Actual, Hopper and Kestrel getting them out of dodge. Bleeding out alongside Catriona has increased her respect for the Highland Cow, knowing she isn't all talk but caring and something Anna knows she needs to reciprocate- almost melting her in an odd way. Ever since, she has recovered fully and like the fighter she is, continued in what she does. Spectre doesn't die that easy, after all.

Hobbies & Interests:
Climbing, Triathlon, Reading, Grime Music, Boxing.

-------------

2x K8 SOF Combat Knife
2x M8A Select-Fire PDS with Silencer/LAM

RI M23 w/ 40mm Grenade Launcher
-Holographic Sight and Magnifier, Vertical Foregrip, Silencer, Laser/Light Module, Golden-Grey Camo

Reconaissance Fatigues and Armour (Gold/Grey)
OR
Stealth Fatigues (Black)
Pebble
Ommni-Tool
Personal First Aid Kit
Personal Survival Kit
Climbing Rope and Harness + Magnetised Grappling Hook
PID (Laser Designator/Thermal Imaging Device)
Grenades, Smoke Grenades and Flashbangs
Quad-Vision NVGs
2kg of RDX Explosives

[User]
Max smirked as he saw Silverwind approve the requests, as he put his head back against the wall, sighing. He had to think to himself of what the last op had been like, and how much it had come to haunt him a little how intense it had gotten. They'd gotten into some serious scrapes before, but Anna getting wounded like that was pretty fucking bad. For her too, Max felt guilt, guilt that he hadn't been there for his own team. A good leader shouldn't have cared, especially not one as hardened as him. But for all the lack of empathy that him and Anna sometimes showed each other, they did care, a considerable amount. It was almost as if the two odd pieces fitted together well, as he sighed, shutting his eyes for just a moment.

---

In the same time the lion was sitting in reflection, Anna was running through her equipment list, one that from the first glance of the Pebble's listing seemed very short. The jaguar wasn't thinking about the wound, or even how she'd gotten into that situation. Only to never let it happen again. And to focus on what was next.

The M23 rifle was already in her posession on a table across from her, the hexagonally camoflaged grenadier version odd for an infiltrator- but exceptionally useful to destroy things if shit went to pot. Adjusting her cuffs, the jaguar's night-black hex-camo infiltration gear was more like a wetsuit, fitting tightly from the top of her head to her toes, reducing her profile in the dark even more immensely- and even more specficially, the special weave allowed her thermal signature to be concealed. In a nutshell, she was nigh invisible to a thermal imaging camera, given that almost every surface of her skin was covered from her paws to even her eyes, covered with the NVGs, which were equipped with a thermal imaging mode. Whilst she had forgone armour to have that advantage, the main reason she didn't always use a piece of equipment like this, the infiltration suit allowed her breathing room to run, climb and vault with total ease, as well as hide in shadows far easier than in an alternative uniform. It did also show her...athletic form off too. A pair of quad-optic NVGs made her already astounding night vision even more laser-like, and the modified Corvid wingpack sat across from her, this time, with two hydrogen-powered jets attached to the semi-rigid wing structure. If there was one thing that the new intiative had given her, it was priority on the coolest equipment list that the SIS had access to. She took the rifle as she finished up with her tactical equipment, taking a range of smart 40mm grenades, her grappling hook, and a pocket-sized laser designator, as well as shouldering the Covid pack as the last piece of the puzzle. With only a wry smile, Anna silently took confidence in herself that while she wasn't in a GEAR, Spectre was going to make the Silent Line afraid of the dark.

---

Sitting inside the command centre, Anna and Max had settled in early, bags and equipment all settled down. Anna only had a small hex-coloured pack, containing her explosives and other supplies, while Max had taken a slightly larger bag, knowing he was probably going to carry his and Anna's various kit across. The gear getting loaded in the background was a sight to see, as the gray-haired fox turned up, slinging himself into place and strapping himself in. Anna had pulled back her balaclava and hood, clicking her hands as she seemed almost disengaged for the moment.

"Good to see you again, Silverwind. Hopefully we're going in a bit." Max commented, sighing as he looked around at the command centre, nodding approvingly.
"This is fancy. I like this an awful lot. Proper support, nice." He added, feeling like he was breaking the silence, already strapped in and wearing a GEAR pilot's standard fatigues, in his usual reconaissance pattern. The jaguar didn't seem too interested, as Max looked across to her, then back to Silverwind.

"As I said, Anna can get her hands on some proper secret agent shit. It's impressive kit she's got herself. I seriously don't know how she made friends with the SIS though to get it. Killing people in cold blood is really anti-social."
"It's best I don't tell you how I get things done, Maxwell. Just you leave me to it." Anna cuttingly replied, Max chuckling in response to her frank reply.
"Alright, alright. Feeling good to go?" He asked her, the jaguar nodding in reply.
"Just about as good as I can be. Colonel, I've got a camera hooked up to the NVGs here, and a whole bunch of RDX with me too. I know infiltrators are a weird unit to manage- basically, just tell me what you need done and I'll figure it out."

[Assistant]
Almost as if in answer to Max's question as to them getting going, the transports engines howled to life, the sound building up rapidly. Lights inside the bay flashed as the ramp came up, and the loadmaster directed them all to take their seats and strap.
It didn't take long before the plane started to roll. From inside there wasn't much to see, but the sense of movement was real as the aircraft rolled onto the runway and accelerated.

The flight passed with little event for the most part. Silverwind used the time to get some sleep, and to eat. After all, there was little else to do. The only other thing was to review the mission data again, and run through options for the assault, and keep up to date - as much as they could - with any intel from the scene.

[User]
Max had taken an awful lot of sleep, as had Anna, the team sleeping for the majority of the flight. The day was passing quick, given that they had quite a bit of distance to cover- and after their stopover in Faerenal, they were on their way into the hot zone. Max had a rough idea of how they could work with Anna's laser designated point- while they could do it remotely from above, like a strike fighter could, it would potentially get hairy if there were local countermeasures in place. Anyway, Anna would get a much more accurate lase, and more importantly, identify the target much clearer than they could from afar if there was any interference. The infiltrator on the other hand had looked into how she would insert- going in prior to the rest of the GEARs dropping, using the jet-powered wingpack to land outside the base, then start setting up a whole array of "treats". Risky, but the night was her friend for that one.

Sitting back, Anna exhaled, as the black jaguar took her headphones off, some rap from back in the days. While Anna was a woman that had risen above her background, sometimes though, she had kept bits of it in the little things she did. Max sometimes joked that while he was like a surfer, she was like the terrifying shadow you saw behind you in the rough part of town. A street soldier, but a spec-ops one. Taking her headphones off, she walked across to Catriona, the Highland Cow someone she wanted to chat to, knowing now was probably the right time with the other two asleep.

Looking across to her, the jaguar walked across, the sultry and tactical infiltrator sitting down, sighing before she started.
"Hey up. You know me and how I am....I don't really talk to people much and all. I don't want to mince my words, but just wanted to say after last time, I owe you a little bit of a debt. You nearly died for me, Cat...I thought that was me done and dusted, a stupid way to go after some of the other crap I've been in. But here we are....not sure what it's worth, but you need anything after this, you've got my Pebble's contact." Anna said, her voice coming through as honest, breaking her usual cold and harsh demeanour, genuine and true in her words, offering a paw out to Catriona.


[System]
ISF Membership Form c-98bV2
Appearance: I'm a ripped super hero with the muscles of Thor, the brains of Ironman, and the combined awesomeness of both! I hate gym class though, I'm always picked last for sports. The kids always call me jelly belly in the locker room. I may have little bit of extra fat but beneath that extra fat hides extra glory! Oh yeah, I also have brown eyes, slightly tanned skin, black hair, and I'm not short! Maybe a little short....

Species name and description: I'm just a regular old human. Well, humanish. I do have very large pointed ears and massive eyes. My eyes are like the size of grape fruits. That's what I'm told anyway. What's a grapefruit? Most "normal" humans are like two heads taller than me. People ask me what I am all the time. I just tell em I'm Lord Captain Super Awesome..... At that point they lose interest and wonder off.

Favourite side dish: My favourite side dish to your amazing honey braised ribs are your sweet and crunchy sweet potato fries! We do get free ribs and fries on this thing right?

Useful skills and abilities: I can work your engines like a cat works a fiddle! Yeah, I admit, the Henderson Ribs space ship engine is pretty much like a simple toy compared to other engines. But you know what? I can take that baby apart then put it back together in my sleep! He he he XD!

Membership Number: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, Gargle, beware those that watch through the static, 64858368472fnsjnchd

An inspirational quote that sums up your characters personally: Everything is better with extra cheese and bacon.

Brought to you by your friends at Henderson's Ribs. Out Of This World Flavour!TM

[User]
At the table with the others were 25 small humanoids with bee wings and antennae. 2 where wearing miniature captains hats who were attempting to look as dignified as possible, 3 where dressed in with a shirt and tie and where there to do accounting for when they paid as well as to remember the new recruit's CVs. The remaining 20 were there to make up the numbers so that they actually had a presence of a swarm rather than a few small individuals that could be ignored and where dressed in the standard red jacket of The Bees. The numbers were also important so that they could activate automatic doors or make rope teams to pull open manual ones and other size reliant tasks. The Bees were either sitting on the chair, on the table or hovering between those two groups, all but the captains buzzing excitedly at being brought along. The Will was effectively popping in and out of the group, the present bee's antennae occasionally lighting up as it made sure they and the solos of the crew were OK before going back to managing the bulk takeout order operation currently being undertaken by the rest of the swarm. There would have been a mass riot if only the 25 at the table where to get those succulent ribs.

As it was the majority of the bees were currently engaged in a mass transport operation from the joints drive through to the ship, which was parked some way off as Elarin(very sensibly) wouldn't let The Bees drive, using a system of ropes, pallets and those trolley things you get at airports. Imaging the massive limestone blocks being dragged to build the pyramids except instead of slaves it's tiny bee people, instead of limestone its delicious ribs, instead of dragging it along the ground they had to contend with the uncontrollable wonky wheels on the trolleys, instead of slave drivers with whips there were angry drivers who couldn't use the drive through because of the operation shouting at them and finally that they were building a giant banquet instead of a tomb. All of this was watched in horrified fascination by the acne ridden teenagers manning the drive through. Currently things were going smoothly and casualty rates were at an acceptable level, they all knew the party they were going to throw was going to be worth it.

The Mind, having gotten the external operation into a relatively self sustaining state after much prodding and macro-management of The Bees, finally settled into the 25 just in time to watch Vanessa's theatrics. The Bees gave her a round of applause while The Mind added 'Show off' to their data on her after which The bees got down to arguing about what to order.

"Everything is going well so far miss Kiyvana."

The Bees then inform the waiter that they want Ribs coated with honey, fries with honey on the side, tomatoes, an entire lettuce, lemon sorbet, Jub Jub juice, coconuts, grubs of a scarab beetle, more honey and...

All these and more are shouted over each other in an incomprehensible mess before the mind drowns them out.

"Ignore everything the Bees just said, they will have 3 child portions of ribs, a large basket of fries, a mixed salad, a plate of Venusian sour spheres and four bowls of honey."

The Mind had spoken and given a relatively decent order, so The Bees stopped their uproar and got back to what they were doing which was a lot of low level chatter, looking over the Space Friends Monthly(mainly a the pictures) or in the case of the two captain's hat wearing Bees a rather amateurish game of chess.

[Assistant]
The space camp councillors told him he was perfect for the role. That Fiddlesticks would be the most valuable and respected member of the crew. They told him that he was meant for great things. That he was smart and ever so handsome. Well, they didn't say that second part but Fiddlesticks suspected that they were thinking it. If only they could see him then. Drooling uncontrollably like a space poodle.

Fiddlesticks salivated so much that a stream of drool flowed it's way down his chin and onto the diner table. Only after hearing the quiet yet audible splash of saliva onto the table top did Fiddlesticks realise the error of his ways. Startled by this realisation he sat bolt upright in his seat and covered his mouth with both his hands. His huge grapefruit sized eyes have never been any bigger than they were at that moment. They darted left and right rapidly, at all the other members of the crew. He hoped against hope that the cute girl with the glasses didn't notice.

Fiddlesticks made an audible gulp then dropped his hands to his sides. He let out a sigh of resignation. He thought that those guys would consider him a dork as well. But he had duty, a most honourable and sacred one! To help spread the word of Hendersons Ribs! For deliciousness! For friendship! For adventure!

"Huzzah!" yelled Fiddlesticks.

He found himself standing on his seat with his right fist pointed straight up into the air. He wore a massive smile that stretched from ear to ear. How the heck did that happen!? He didn't even remember standing up. Fiddlesticks quickly decided to play it cool and roll with it. He held his pose and his smile. He hoped that at least one other member would join in on his style of expressing jubilation.

[User]
After driving for the entire eight-hour flight to the Hederson's Ribs above Nurr-Slugg, Elarin was exhausted. Resting his head against the backrest of the booth, his claw-tipped fingers rapped against the laminated cover of the menu, as his bloodshot, glazed over eyes glanced slowly from item to item, his tongue occasionally darting out of his mouth to taste the air whenever different dishes were walked past their table by the server-robots. Eventually, a server approached the table the group was seated at, and Elarin sat up a bit as the bot spoke. "Welcome to Henderson's Ribs. I am Walter. What will it be?"

Elarin emitted whatever the reptilian equivalent of a yawn was, before sluggishly tracing a claw along the menu, answering Walter the Waiter with a worn-out voice.

"I'd like a...medium serving of ribs, a small bowl of corn, a small basket of...regular fries, and a coffee, doesn't matter what planet." With that, Elarin handed his menu over, and rested his head back against the backrest again, his head spines poking small holes in the leather upholstery. Closing his eyes, Elarin mumbled out something that sounded like "Wake me if you need me.", or maybe it was "Take these if you see peas."

Unless he was woken up by someone priorly, Elarin would carefully sit back up once the food arrived, the hiss of air being let out of the leather backing as his spines were drawn from the puncture holes they had made.

[Assistant]
The one known as 'The Mind" was interesting. It was like looking at an organic colony of nanobots! Though Toony really couldn't fully understand the whole hive mind thing. Sure she was made out of nanobots and commanded a ton of them, but they basically only formed one body without their own minds or anything unlike "The Mind" and his bees. Toony really wasn't sure what to make of the organic though, only time would tell!

Fiddlesticks though... Toony couldn't help but give a mechanical laugh at his eagerness. Sure what he was doing was... really silly. But at least he was trying to save face so Toony could appreciate commitment. Heck, she'd join him if there was a reason to! But she didn't know everyone super well yet so she decided to wait and see how the rest of her new crewmates would react. As much as she disliked it, first impressions were sorta kinda important to organics.

"So... Now that almost everyone I met is here. Anyone wanna talk about themselves while we wait for our food?" Toony suggested, looking at the various people she'd be calling her crew for the foreseeable future. "I'm a cute robot, if that wasn't obvious." She said with a smile look in her eyes. She didn't have a mouth, so the gesture wasn't as obvious as it should be, but then Toony found anything less than the eyes mundane and useless.

[User]
Vonny woke up from his long nap, where the ship's weapon inventory room was as the ship began to slow down. He yawned before rubbing his eye's and looking around. He casually got out of the inventory room and went right towards the bathroom. After splashing his face with water and doing his thing (Washed his hands of course) he proceeded to to the kitchen. He looked inside of the fridge to do a quick supply count and nodded. "Bloody hell, all that's in here is vegtables, a few chicken wings and last night's chocolate cake." he mumbled before grabbing one of the chicken wings. He began to eat it before proceeding to the Henderson Rib entrance where the rest of the crew was. Vonny walked to the group of table before looking at the waiter:

"Get me three ribs, one honey, one of the buffalo sauce and the other BBQ sauce, and two pitchers of your domestic brew, no foam please!" Vonny said

Vonny sat at the table, near to the crew before nodding.

"How's everyone doing today?"

[Assistant]
Sitting in the back of the booth, her legs pulled close together in a valiant effort to create as much available space for her dear children companions as possible, was Tik-Tik. The giant spider's arachnid face was unreadable to any of her more humanoid companions, and she wagered that even the hive of bees didn't have the necessary experience to read her alien expressions. Not to worry, though -- she was perfectly content.

"Eat up, eat up!" she said, or hissed, or... how does one describe the sound? It sounded like a little breathless and a little layered, like someone slowly and gently dragging the bow of a violin across a stand of silk. "Nobody is allowed to leave the table before you finish your meals." One of her many eyes glanced at the bees with the captain hats and she quickly added: "Except for the Captain, of course. They can do as they please." It was important not to forget her place.

The nanobot robot, named Toony, asked the crew to say something about themselves. "Nice to meet you, my dear. My name is --" the sounds that followed were completely incomprehensible, more reminiscent of the death rattles of a dying Protoceratops than anything else -- "But you can call me Tik-Tik. All my friends do." The spider attempted a polite curtsy, dipping her head and thorax, with the limited space she had.

"And I am doing great, Vonny! Did you get enough sleep?" Tik-Tik asked, turning to the Space Dwarven quartermaster, another unreadable expression on her many-eyed face; experts in arachnid communication would describe it as 'stern, but kind'.

[User]
Fiddlesticks hung his head in defeat. Nobody joined him in his rousing cheer. The crew just sat there, staring at him dumbfounded. Usually, when Fiddlesticks made a spectacle of himself, people called him names. Mean names such as dork, loser, squiggleblarq etc. This reaction caught him off guard. More so than the fact that he just made the crews robot maid laugh. Fiddlesticks had neither seen nor heard of a robot that had a sense of humour before. Rather than feeling embarrassed, Fiddlesticks felt relieved. He was beginning to like this crew already. Fiddlesticks sat himself back down on his chair.

"So... Now that almost everyone I met is here. Anyone wanna talk about themselves while we wait for our food?" our robot maid asked of everyone.

"I'm a cute robot, if that wasn't obvious." stated the robotic maid. Fiddlesticks agreed wholeheartedly. It did resemble a cute girl. Having a robotic maid around would be very useful. It could clean his smelly socks and underwear. Those things got really smelly and very nasty. Fiddlesticks decided to give it his dirty laundry once everyone was aboard the ship.

"Hi, err I am Fiddlesticks. I'm the ships engineer." Fiddlesticks replied.


[System]
Mikio
Alias: N/A
 Faction: Human
 Age: 23

 Personality: Mikio is a young man driven by passion; from his minimalist style to his career, he rarely acts beyond the rush of emotion. This drive, however, bewrays Mikio's sensitive and temperamental nature; when he is put in a position he can't connect to emotionally, Mikio's purpose is dealt crippling blows. While his emotive personality might push him into a talkative mood, Mikio is a private person, only divulging his outward interests such as teamaking, crossword puzzles, and whittling.

 Appearance: A simple person physically, Mikio's willowy build and average stature complements his soft, round face, beset by chestnut eyes. His hair is a slightly shaggy earth brown, framing his face awkwardly.

 History: Born in the 12th ward, the Setagaya ward, of Tokyo, Mikio lived a modest life as the son of a civil servant and a barkeeper. During his youth, Mikio suffered from debilitating migraines that would occasionally leave him bedridden. This condition impacted his performance in school to such an extent that he eventually dropped out. Though feeling the shame shared by his parents for leaving school, Mikio's headaches slowly ebbed, finally giving the then-eighteen-year-old a chance to grow and experience. Leaving his parents' home at nineteen, Mikio began working as an employee at a burgeoning gift store. There, he met and befriended Kou, another young adult who had left school to pursue his own dreams. Together they dreamt of leaving Setagaya and setting up a teashop. They lived together peacefully for two years before Kou went missing. Mikio sought the help of the CCG, who provided little help. Desperate, Mikio searched the entirety of Ward 12, but for little gain aside from hopelessness.
 Deciding to cut ties with the ward permanently, Mikio moved to the confines of Ward 8. There he became acquainted with the owner of a teashop, an elderly woman named Shika. Becoming apprenticed to the seasoned teamaker, Mikio diverted his wasted energy and pain from Kou's disappearance into helping her run the shop, located near the western outskirts of the ward. Two years following Mikio's new life in the ward, Shika fell ill. Declaring Mikio as manager of the teashop, referred to simply as the Tea Lounge, the young man finds himself in a balancing act as he cares for the sickly Shika and management of the teahouse.

 Skills:
* Tea Preparation - Having learned from Kou and Shika, Mikio is knowledgeable on teas and how to prepare them.
* Bedside Manners - With Shika approaching terminal illness, Mikio has learned quickly proper care for her and understand such body language.
* Basic Herbalism - Though no expert, Mikio has garnered enough understanding of herbalism via teas and similar herbal infusions and their usefulness.

 Equipment: Outside of work, Mikio prefers outer coats, sweaters, and jeans.

Tea Lounge

Situated in the southwestern waterfront of the Kōtō district, the respectable teahouse boasts more than fragrant teas: freshly ground coffee, sweets including mochi and coffee jelly, and small appetizers such as salads and rices.
Vetted and cleaned daily by Mikio, the comfortably-small Tea Lounge offers a sunlit view of the water with ample shade for those who prefer it.

[User]
Kobayashi Taiki

---

Taiki sat on a retaining wall of a small garden in the square directly across from the CCG Field Headquarters of the 8th Ward. He had been there for awhile, the growing pile of cigarette butts at his feet a testament to that. He took a long drag from what remained of the cigarette in his mouth before dropping it to the ground and snuffing it out with the toe of his shoe. He checked his watch, 'Less than three minutes. Fucking meetings...' he thought as he stood from the wall and began to walk toward the road. He stepped out without paying much attention to the traffic, earning himself a car horns blast and a rather angry looking driver to which he waved and slightly smiled in their direction as he crossed in front of them.

Across the road he made his way up the steps of the 8th Ward Office in twos before he pulled the door open at the top. He moved to the security check at the entrance, flashing his ID and stepping through the RC Gates with a bored look on his face and then made his way to the stairwell.

A little over a minute later Taiki would burst from the stairwell entrance on the floor of the meeting, breathing a little bit heavier than normal but otherwise looking normal. He turned around in the hallway, gaining his bearings quickly before making his way down the hall toward where he was pretty sure was the conference room. Turning a corner his guess was confirmed as correct when he found himself staring at Sora as he waited outside the room. Taiki moved along side the younger Investigator, standing before the doorway of the briefing room he shrugged at Sora and pulled an earbud from his left ear, "Figured you'd be inside already, I had to finish a cigarette, it," he raised up his hands showing six fingers to Sora as he did, "Took a little longer than I had anticipated." he said with a grin before he tapped on Sora's shoulder and pulled him into the briefing room.

Once inside he fell in against the wall, bringing his arms up against his chest and looking past the other present Investigators, his mood quickly souring at the fact he was simply in a briefing room at all.

---

@BCTheEntity@SilverDawn@Old Amsterdam

[Assistant]
Seto
@BCTheEntity@Sketcher@FrostedCaramel

---

Seto smiled at Ketsu, his eyes softening for a moment. He neglected to respond at the moment, however.

Once everyone was inside, joined by Katsura moments late, Seto turned around.

"Thank you all for coming on such short notice. I am Lead Special Investigator Seto Tanaka, head of the 8th Ward CCG Field Operations. I also advised and evaluate graduates from the Academy."

"As I'm sure you're all aware, the situation in Ward 11 has been escalating. We've instigated a Ward wide evacuation, effective immediately. As such, most of the rest of the Wards are in short supply of Investigators. As such... Things may be a little harder from here on out," he began slowly, the screen depicting various information and statistics on the 11th Ward. "To make matters worse, there are rumors of another group of Ghouls in the 20th Ward banding together. I fear we may be looking at similar situations in nanny Wards in the weeks to follow."

He ran a hand through his hair. "With that in mind, I have further bad news." The screen changed to pictures of grisly murder scenes. "There have been no less than five of these attacks in the last month. Autopsy reports suggest blunt trauma and stabbing damage as the causes of death in each case. Reports are scarce, and we so not know who, or what, is performing these acts. The amount of missing flesh indicates Ghoul behavior, and we may be facing an early stage S-ranked threat...a Binge Eater in the making. However, some of the damage appears to be possibly from Quinque, though a Chimera Ghoul can't be ruled out. I must repeat the emphasis on being careful, but I want this bastard found and neutralized as the current priority." Seto slammed a fist down to punctuate the sentence.

"Sora, you will remain under First Class Investigator Kobayashi. You two are to focus on stopping any Ghoul activity you can discover. Associate Special Class Investigator Katsura, I'll be sending you out with Rank 2 Junior Investigator Remi. I want you two to review the latest crime scene and get a damn profile on this mystery killer. Ketsu, you and I are going to take a special trip," he commanded in a barking voice.

"Any questions?" He asked, quieter.

[User]
---

Location: 8th Ward, Tea Lounge
Tag: @Fathomless

---

Naosada sat on the corner edge of a flower shop across the tea cafe. It looked pleasant and inviting, but he had witnessed gruesome traps laid in enticing forms. Even still, if only to be safe, he had decided scout it. His long travel on foot had started it up, it had been two weeks since he had eaten. And he could feel his instincts starting to overwhelm him. He needed coffee; a nice hot cup of steaming coffee. Something to satisfy him, something to help him remain him.

He let out a cool breath, felt the empyreal heat of his Ghoulish power recede. "I pray for that boy that they have coffee."

For he had cemented in his mind, that to avoid falling into his lesser civilized-self, he would sacrifice one for the good of the masses. Naosada strode inside the Tea Lounge, or so the sign had read, and paused at the boy. It was bright, homely. Rays of soft sunlight fell inside; uniformed soldiers of saffron light. Lively plants, which promoted a sense of life and gentle elegance hung above and was situated in corners. Naosada looked at the youth and saw a graceful figure inside the boy. Even still, he was incapable of hiding the paramount importance of his momentary question. "Excuse me," he said softly. "Do you sell coffee here?"

[Assistant]
Bisuto Ketsu
Amsterdam@SilverDawn@FrostedCaramel@Sketcher

---

...well, shit, Seto really was the Lead Investigator here. And he'd not figured that out until now? What, had he zoned out the day that was announced? Or maybe he just hadn't ever been put under the man's command, but it was nonetheless an untenable lapse of knowledge. He would not be one of the stupid people of the world, damn it.

That said, and as expected, Tanaka came with bad news, namely that Ward 11 was being evacuated wholesale. "A little harder", indeed, but at the end of the day, all it meant was more food for Ketsu. He did so detest pretending to consume and digest normal food... though he'd long since learned to surpress his vomit reaction until an appropriate time, occasionally he just had to suck up the impure nutrient substance and take the hit to his health for a little while.

But not today. Today, he surmised as the one-eyed investigator continued to speak, would be a good day to feast. Shame about the ghouls banding together in 20th Ward, where he had no particular influence, but a random binge eater, who nobody would notice had been a little bit drained of blood? It was practically an invitation! So long as he could figure out how to get at the body whilst his partner was distracted. Wait too long, and the blood began to coagulate. That was the woooorst; it meant he had to take bites of his meal, and that was DNA evidence waiting to happen.

And of course, his partner was none other than Seto Tanaka himself. Of the others in the room, Unbalanced Sora remained with Kobayashi McDaggerthrow - as usual - whilst Remi the Airhead was assigned to Katsura Scissorgay. No offense was meant to any of them with those internal nicknames, but it was the easiest way to remember roughly who they were in his mind, given that none especially stood out otherwise, and he generally avoided becoming too close with any of the other investigators for obvious reasons. Seto was the exception, rather than the rule, given their mildly-shared past, and even that was tenuous.

Still, it sounded like Ketsu would definitely be the lucky one who got to take out this particular ghoul. And if he succeeded here, showed Tanaka exactly how skilled he really was, perhaps he'd be seeing his way up to an early promotion to Rank 1 Investigator. And only a few weeks into his tenure, too, oh how impressive his fellows would says... and what better justification to gain ever more privacy in his working hours, perhaps, than by increasing his rank? T'was the idea all along, to be sure.

'No questions from me, sir,' Ketsu obliged, a bland smile crossing his face. 'I expect the details of our special trip will be relayed to me en route, if they aren't directly related to finding that ghoul - and might I say, I'm honoured to be taken under your wing this time around? I shan't let you down!' And just to complete the image, a quick salute, because why not? After all, he was feeling enthusiastic about this next mission.

[User]
Mikio
Tea Lounge

---

---

The sun's grainy glow engulfed the teashop, and the street swelled with a medley of folk: merchants giving impressive, albeit rehearsed, spiels; the faces of men and women blurring together as they rushed by; laughing children on bicycles. The lifeblood of the Kōtō Ward, forming a beautiful monolith. These certain, special days provided the silver lining for the encumbering pall of stress covering Mikio's life. A brief respite; one he never took for granted. During these honeyed moments, he often let himself swim backwards in his mind, returning to Kou. An ache formed in Mikio's chest. Though he left Ward 12, his memories of it--most importantly, of Kou--stayed tethered to him. To forget someone who gave him so much to remember would be a slap in the face, and so he kept the images of their time together alive.

For a while, Mikio thought. He thought about Kou, and Shika, who remained confined to the dimly lit room upstairs, drugged to the point of near-unconsciousness. He thought of his parents, and wondered with an apathy that worried him if they were still alive.

"Excuse me, do you sell coffee here?" The voice, as gentle as a breeze, broke the seated waiter from his aimless daydream, his gaze having drifted along the steady mass of people passing hurriedly by the shop. Mikio stood, idly smoothing out his apron. "Good morning!" he sang in reply, his tired smile shifting to a canty grin, "We do. Just the regular kind?" He gestured to one of the neatly-arranged tall stools lining the shop's island table.