[System]
Age

17 (Appears to be in his 20s)

Story They Are From

Beauty and The Beast

Family

None

Crush/Partner

N/A Currently

Abilities

Very Strong, 'Rage' Mode induced by emotions (fear and anger mostly)

Personality

To call him rough would be an understatement as Adam gets very angry very easily. Many people tend to stray away from him because of this and has caused him to develop a sort of complex. He doesn't believe anyone could ever love or even like a person like him. He has been called cruel, excessive, and brutish. Most people don't see the soft side of him that the people that worked back at his home saw as whenever anyone does happen to see it, he gets so angry that they quickly forget whatever they saw. He does, however, when prompted, talk to others of his own volition but it is particularly rare.

History

Adam grew up as a lonely rich prince in a large castle like home. His parents died when he was relatively young and he has lived with his servants ever since. One day, an old woman came to his front door but because of her appearance, Adam turned her away, not able to take the ugliness of her appearance. Because of this, the old woman cursed him and changed his appearance as well as those in his service. His appearance changed and he became very rough looking. Whenever he went out, women would shield their children from them and men would look at him with anger or confusion. No one would talk to him and soon he became recluse after all of the grief he got from his appearance.

Knowing that the curse could be lifted if the young master fell in love, his servants convinced him to go to an Academy with that purpose in mind. Every now and then Ms. Teapot sneaks in to come and check in on him and make sure he's doing as he promised, finding someone to love.

Other

What He Looked Like Before The Curse

Other Pictures of Beast

[User]
Peter

Peter rolls his eyes and runs a hand through his hair. "Yeah, I guess you could say that," he mutters, not even bothering to tell them that he's over three hundred years old and still looks like a teen. He smiles softly down at them and says, "Well, if you ever need any help, you can always come find me. I may not know a lot, but I can sure give it a good try." He turns to face the stairs as the elderly woman begins to talk.

"Welcome, all, welcome!" the woman announces. "Welcome to Fairytale Academy, the only academy of its kind. Here you will learn everything that normal students never get to learn, such as dancing, fencing, kayaking, and so much more." The woman gives a grand smile to the crowd of students. "My name is Glenda Fey, but just address me as Godmother Fey. I am here to help you learn and to teach you all the things that you will need to know as you go throughout your special lives." Her rosy cheeks bulge. "Now, I must warn you. There are a few rules for here. There is no going into the hallway after midnight or going outside after midnight. No being late to meals and do not go into the forest without a guide. Girls so stay in girl dorms for the night and boys in the boys' dorms. You may mingle in them during the day." She smiles again. "I do hope that you all have a lovely time here. It is about five o'clock right now and dinner is at six o'clock sharp. That gives you enough time to find your rooms with your roommates and tour the academy. All of you will have the same schedule and it will be posted outside your dorms tomorrow morning at eight AM. Now, get going and I will see you all at class tomorrow!" She giggles like a little girl and suddenly, with a poof of bubbles, she's gone.

Peter stares at the place where she was before shaking his head. He's seen worse. He looks down at the siblings and says, "I guess you two are getting split up."

Belle

Belle is slightly offended that Beast did not talk to her longer, but she doesn't dwaddle on it, as the elderly woman begins to speak. She goes through all the rules of the academy and what they are to expect out of it. None of this bothers Belle; she actually expects it. What she doesn't expect is the woman to up and disappear before everyone's eyes. Belle's jaw drops. She has only read about magic in her books, never seen it in real life. Was that magic? She shakes her head. No, it can't be. It was probably just a parlor trick.

She begins to think about the whole roommate thing. That can't be too good... She sighs and walks inside, carrying her bag in one hand and her book in the other. This whole experience is going to be interesting.

[Assistant] The old woman, Godmother Fey, started talking. Shocked Kyrin leapt to her feet, moving forward and joining the edge of the crowd around the lady. Kiy listened, shifting nervously from foot to foot. Paying attention, and filing the information away for future reference. When Godmother Fey finished and disappeared Kiy didn't even blink, but having been disappearing for most of her life, it wasn't really that weird for her. Heading inside she followed the dark haired girl from earlier, hoping she had an idea where she was going. Kyrin had heard a ruckus about a map earlier, but having never really even seen the letter itself, there was no way she would have gotten or even seen a map.

[User]
The Mad Hatter

Hatter watched as the lady appeared - no - She literally appeared out of thin air. He passed it off as his mind playing tricks on him. The woman - Godmother Frey - explained the daily situations in the academy. When she said "Roomates", Hatter swore aloud, and apparently a couple students had heard him, as they glanced at him. He ignored them his to the best of his ability.

Roommates? Hatter sighed. The last thing he wanted was to share a room with someone again. At the orphanage, he'd earned his own room, being one of the older kids. He'd not shared a room with anyone for almost two and a half years. He prayed to dear God that it wasn't that magician kid or the overly-perky guy... The big, scary dude... that would be okay. Seemed like he didn't like talking - that's exactly what Hatter was wanting.

When Godmother Frey concluded her speech, she vanished in a spew of purple mist and bubbles. So he hadn't been imagining her appearance... Honestly, the fact that the lady had just performed magic didn't bother Hatter. He'd always figured that magic existed... otherwise, how would he be able to explain that one time with his Hat? How else could he explain his hat being able to switch forms - Fedora, Beanie, Ball-cap, any kind of hat...

When everyone pooled inside, Hatter pushed through the crowds, hoping to get to his room first. When he found his room, he looked at his room mate - Hatter almost cursed again... He slid his hand up to his fedora and straightened it... Oh joy.

Overly-Perky boy...

[Assistant]
Things appeared to be heating up as an air of tension formed around the encounter of that beastly man and that magician. Elsa was sure that the big man was going to club the smaller man after weirdly touching the boy's hair. A low sounding chuckle that sounded more like a large primate grunting. But then nothing happened and the larger man walked away, which settled well with Elsa. If the first encounter she had with people was a brawl between two people, she'd probably just want to quit right now.

So with the verbal squabble coming to a close, Elsa turned back to someone who appeared in charge. An elderly lady who had been quietly observing the conflict without interfering, which was another questionable thing. Why didn't she---?! Before Elsa could finish her thought a winged creature ran into the side of her head and squawked loudly in fright. Elsa also cried out in shock as she fell to her knees, covering her head in defense.

A boy ran over and tried to assist Elsa back to her feet and she swatted his assistance away for his own good. "No! I don't need your help! Please..." She yelled in frustration, her thin Norwegian accent on display. She got to her feet, immediately feeling bad about yelling at this stranger. She took a deep breath and said in a much quieter volume. "Sorry. It's best if you just... Sorry." She turned away, wanting it this moment to be over and lucky for her, the older lady spoke and interrupted any and all interactions.

After a quick briefing, the lady vanished in a flurry of bubbles... Elsa was quite surprised and despite some of the more "unique" attributes of some people here, she didn't expect that to happen. Elsa felt a surge of relief bubble inside, unfocused on the unnatural properties of what had just happened, because it meant that everyone else here might be in that same state. Maybe, just maybe, Elsa can let loose for once. But that was a dangerous thought and right now she just needed to step away as she already felt exhausted from everything so far.

So Elsa was the first to step inside and immediately set out to find her room. Some clearly marked signs lead her straight to the girl's dormitory area but she wasn't the first one there. Another girl with red hair was already searching for her room and maybe she found it as Elsa approached and stood right next to the girl with the brilliant red hair. Above the door was a plague:

Elsa
Muriel

Elsa took a glance at the red hair girl. She was a petite beauty who was about four inches shorter than Elsa. Her skin looked to be a healthy color and reminded Elsa of California, or what limited experience she had with it. The two couldn't appear more different.

She looked down at her feet and thought of something she could say but couldn't think of something clever or funny, much to her own frustration. "Um.. Hi!" She eagerly said with a quick wave and a flimsy smile. "Are you Muriel?" She asked, gesturing her head and eyes up to the plague.

[User]
Hansel and Gretel listened to the elderly woman obediently, but when they heard about dorms and stuff, both of their jaws dropped like it was the largest insult you could give to them. "What?!" Hansel demanded, outraged. "No!" Gretel protested, as against their seperation as her brother. But Godmother Fey already disappeared, and in quite a flashy way, they had to admit.

They suddenly grabbed each other dramatically, as if each other's lifeline. "Heck no are we seperating!" Hansel stated, facing Peter. "We never ever split up!" Gretel piped up. Then they let go of each other reluctantly and clinged themselves to Peter.

"Dude, we need your help!" The male half of the twins begged. "I mean, who would protect my sister!" Gretel rolled her eyes at this, but said to Peter. "I'm...not comfortable away from my brother much as well..."

"Do you know any sort-"

"-of loopholes or somethin'?"

[Assistant]
Beast listened to the old woman, glad that things were moving along and he could get out of this crowd. He did admit that the woman 'poofing' shocked him, but not because of the magic. Hell, he spent the last few years with a tea pot as a head maid. Beast let out a long sigh, a tired look in his eyes.

Entering the building, it did not take him long to locate his room as his things were sitting out in the hallway blocking the path of several students. Sighing once again, he mentally cursed the driver for being lazy and glanced at the door.

Adam
Kovu

...

...

Did they have to use his real name? Another sigh, this time with a hint of a groan behind it. He picked up one of his many bags and pushed the door open, apologizing gruffly to the other males in the hallway. It was a rather plainly designed room, just the basics as far as he could tell. That would soon change. He decided to take the room/bed nearest the window and began placing his things about the room and out of the hallway.

He hung up paintings, changed the drapes, put down a rather elegant looking rug in the middle of the space, and on his desk he placed a small glass case. Inside was a single rose, glowing rather vibrantly. Where the hell was he supposed to put it? He wanted to hide it but...

Sighing, he picked it up once again and walked over to his closet. He lifted the fragile thing and placed it delicately on the top shelf of his closet and pushed it to the back corner, out of the way. In this corner, he placed other such nick-nacks, old books, old photos of himself, a ribbon from his mother.

Where and who was his roommate anyway? He didn't remember anyone introducing themselves as Kovu... He hoped to god it wasn't that slick haired boy from before with the magic tricks. Anyone but him.

Beast sighed, looking at the bags of things on the floor before his bed when his mind returned to the plaque outside. He eyed the door before a small smile grew on his lips. Sifting through his bag, he located one of his sharper knives and walked outside and began the process of cutting his name out of the metal.


[System]
Character Sheet
Alias: Vector

Age: 17

Gender: Male

Skills: Some martial arts skills, mostly a freestyle fighter. Slight tech knowledge. Knows many machines and things inside and out, but doesn't really know what they do all the time.

Powers: Speed Force Conduit: Think powers like the Flash, speedsters. I can get in depth if needed, but know that I won't be over extravagant and if anything needs explained I would be glad to do so. It's just a lot to write.

Equipment: Costume made of adaptive molecules, capable of slight adaptation to appear as a set of normal clothing (hoodie, Tshirt, jeans and shoes). Made of a frictionless material common for speedster suits so they don't tear off or ignite at high speeds.

Personality: Very easy going. Might seem full of himself but that is unintended and untrue. With his mind processing faster than everyone else, he tends to skip things or seem rushed. But he has a heart of gold and is very caring. Sometimes he gets nervous around girls, even though he can't help but flirt, and he always has a cheery disposition.

History: Jack Hawke was a pretty ordinary kid, running track through school and getting good grades. He was always absent minded and a bit of a dreamer, sometimes walking through the city for hours just watching people as he dreamed. It was on a day like that when he witnessed a car crash happen almost right next to him. When he snapped out of his trance, he saw a third car coming and a woman in danger of being hit in the collision. Jack ran as fast as he could, completely missing the power lines that had fallen in the water in front of him. When he struck the water, he saw the whole world slow down around him, as a sharp pain coursed through his body, and suddenly he was on the other side, holding the woman in his arms. He fled the scene quickly, unsure of what had happened to him.

After some talks and study, Jack learned that he had somehow become connected to the speed force. He spent a time alone, trying to get a hold of his new abilities. It all seemed to come naturally to him.

Eventually, he decided that it would be good to learn some formal instruction, and decided that the H.I.V.E. would be a good place to start. And so he rushed headlong in, although as we will find out, a speedster is ALWAYS late.

Appearance: Jack is about 5'9" and about 160 pounds. He has bright green eyes and very light, feathery brown hair that is a bit longer, down to his jaw line at some spots, and unruly at all times. It usually looks blown back and sits well enough. Very slim build, with a decent musculature all around. Wears a grey hoodie and pants, and running boots that look normal, except for the alterations and stylings that make the outfit appear similar to the costume. More of an improvised civilian version. Pictured below.

Vector's costume covers him fully from head to toe, with a full mask and covered white eyes. They're are two small wings on either side of the head (similar to Flash's lightning bolts, but smaller), and styled with a few lines over the mouth vertically, giving it a skull type appearance. His suit in general is a gunmetal grey, with dark silver and almost white-gold lines crossing it to make a lightning pattern across the suit and make the lightning bolt on his chest. The second knuckles of the gloves up to the elbow appears to be slightly armored, as well as the boots appear to be made of some metallic material and go up to cover the shins and knees. The whole suit is sleek and aerodynamic, the frictionless material allowing him to run unhindered. The rest of the suit seems to have a thinner armor or shock absorbers in and on it, rounding it out and making it look defensible.

Other: if there are any questions about my character, please do ask. I can define any of the powers of necessary.

H.I.V.E. Five. Yeah. I read it.

[User] Ariella wandered off on her own. Shrugging slightly James and headed out himself. He made a pencil and notepad and started writing. The powerhouses that he encountered in that class got him thinking. He couldn't exactly increase his powers, but he could probably use them for a device or something. It would definitely take some time to figure out and probably longer to make it. There was an advantage to having worked with some advanced mechanics before coming here. He did walk by Ariella on his way to the cafeteria. Stopping he looked down to where she was sitting. "Something the matter Ariella?"

[Assistant]
As they entered the medbay, Molly groaned and practically flopped down on the nearest bed like a breathless trout. Her hammer followed her down and seemed to take up a position at the foot of the bed. She looked around slowly, lone eye wandering around the room as her face softened. She felt very tired and very dizzy, but she knew that she couldn't let herself fall asleep. She looked to Dimitri and threw up a slow thumbs-up, "Than's f'that bud. S'a great way t' make up f' brainin' me." She could only let out a weak laugh before groaning from the pain and nausea.

"There a nurse or... I dunno. A nurse?"

[User]
Dimitri could only sigh at Ryan's words, some people sought motivation from different things, and while he might not have agreed with Ryan's particular source, it was not up to him to judge what kept his classmate going. After entering the medbay and watching Molly's less than graceful transition to the bed, Dimitri fought back yet another wave of shame and chuckled at her thumbs up and thanks, "Yeah. Sor- *ahem* no problem.". The moment Molly inquired about a nurse, one appeared in the form of a slightly older woman with greying hair and some slight wrinkles formed from years of frowning at children. The woman eyed both Dimitri and Molly with a raised eyebrow, "Combat training?" she inquired to the cyborg as Molly seemed unfit to answer, "Team building exercise." he replied sheepishly. The nurse nodded knowingly with a sigh and pointed at Molly, "I'm going to go ahead and assume she's the patient seeing as you're...well...", Dimitri held up a hand to stop her, "No need to say it, I can fix myself. Right now however she could use some help, ma'am.".

The nurse nodded and, after seeing all of the blood matting Molly's hair and eye gingerly checked the girl's head for injuries, sucking in a sharp breath as she saw the source of the blood, "What on earth caused this?". Dimitri looked to the floor and cleared his throat, "I uh...I head butted her during the class.". The cyborg kept his eyes on the ground as he could practically feel the nurse turn and try to glare a hole in him. "Well there's a nasty looking gash on the back of her head. She may have a concussion and be in need of sutures, but I can't be certain until we clean up this blood and cut away some of her hair to get a better look. There's a sink with some fresh cloths behind you, soak a few of them in some warm water. I'll go grab the suture kit and some pain medication, perhaps even a cold compress. And you-" the nurse looked back at Molly and pointed at her, almost poking her in the nose with her finger, "Try not to move anymore than you already have. I should've been sent to grab you instead of you getting up and walking here. I'll be right back.". As Dimitri got to work soaking the cloths, the nurse disappeared around a corner to fetch the supplies.

[Assistant] Ryan watched the scene impassively. He took out his phone and looked at the time. "I give this 20 minutes before we're out of here. The nurse is most likely going to grab the new medication that came in yesterday, which is proven to not only dull pain but help the healing process as well. She will arrive in precisely one minute and 23 seconds." He said to himself as he started a stopwatch on his phone. "Suturing the wound will take maybe five minutes, I've never had to have a wound sutured so I wouldn't know. The nurse will either enter in our presence here in the logbook and everyone leaves or Molly stays. Molly will most likely try to leave with or without permission." He continued talking to himself. He then realized that there were people around him still. "That's just a guess though." He put on a fake smile.

[User] Jack would have been pretty much speechless as Violet walked away. He wasn't good at dealing with women in general, and he wasn't sure if he had done something, said something wrong? His words were stuck in his throat, and he wasn't sure if he should chase her or let her walk away? His hand subconsciously rubbed at the ring he was wearing on his finger, the one she had given him, and sighed nervously, looking around at everyone else. He stuck his hands in his pocket and went walking out to the halls, not really looking where he was going.

[Assistant] Ariella sighed standing up from the ground, and now noticing James walking to her and speaking to her. "Hey..James.." she smiled at him. "Congratulations on your win, again. Hah. And ummmm.." well the reason why Ariella was like this was because she thought her team lost because of her.. it might be the truth or not but that's what she thought. "I just.... I really feel like...my team lost because of me, you know?" Ariella sighed crossing her arms close to her chest and tilting her head to the side, arching an eyebrow at James. "So, how does it feel to win huh? I was a bit sad because you left our team."

[User]
Molly looked up at the nurse lazily and smiled, lifting her arm to throw a thumbs up. She paused for a moment and felt as her eye widened. "W-wwww-wait, we gotta c-cut my hair?" In her dazed state, she managed to pout and bring her arms to her stomach, feeling the length of her magnificent hair beneath her. She was practically sitting on it, it had been with her for so long. She then sighed as she remembered how many times she had been thrown around by it or pulled into the ground by it, and nodded solemnly. She loved her hair, but it seemed to be a sound strategy to cut it shorter as well as allowing the nurse to get a closer look at her wound.

"Go ahead 'nd do whatcha gotta..." She said to both the nurse and Dimitri, flashing a sluggish smile and wincing as she felt a sharp pain in her neck and skull. She then looked to Ryan's statistical rambling with a tired grimace, "Don'tcha have lunch to eat or somethin'? Instead of makin' my headache worse with alluh these numbers 'n' crap?" She clutched her forehead before wiping the blood from her eye enough to finally have both open. She held out a hand, covered with red, and seemed to gesture to Dimitri for a cloth with which to wash her face, "Help a sister out here?"

[Assistant]
James waiting for Ariella to finish speaking. At first he was studying her words and movements but after a bit he realized that there was probably no reason to do that with her. "Winning was alright I guess. It was our first class so I expected it to be a rough start." That was an understatement to what actually happened. Ariella blaming herself was something he didn't expect. He stopped himself from saying something stupid. His usual approach did not really apply here.

Being honest with himself James did not have much experience with comforting people. In the workplace people usually kept their personal problems to themselves. There was also the fact that Ariella was an attractive young woman that seemed to have some kind of attachment already. Generally he avoided that kind of situation entirely because that meant they wanted something. But so far she's given no reason to believe that was the case here. He also didn't have much to his name so there wasn't much worry there. And he was thinking too much again.

Finally he spoke to her worries. "I don't think you should put all that weight of your shoulders. My team all made some plans so we were working together. I also don't think that Shane planned to turn into that thing. A lot of stuff we got lucky on."

[User]
Dimitri looked at Ryan with an expression somewhere between perplexity and fascination, one of his brows raised slightly at the calculations, "You ah...you do that often?" he inquired. The answer to his question would have to wait however as it seemed as though Molly was cognizant enough to voice her complaints and ask for a cloth, "Right, right, hang on.". The cyborg soaked the cloths in some warm water and wrung them out a bit, being careful to avoid submerging his damaged wrist in the sink, lest he cause even further damage. As he walked back over with the cloths, his eyebrow shot up again as he looked to her extended hand, then at her face, "Yeah, nah. The nurse said for you t'keep still." he said as he flicked her hand back onto the bed and gently pressed the cloth over her eye. As gently as he could, the cyborg wiped away some of the blood just as the nurse returned with the supplies she needed. Now it was the nurse's turn to raise her brow as she shooed Dimitri away and began to clean her face with the cloth, "I get that you're trying to help and all son, but please leave this to the people certified to do the job.". Dimitri didn't argue as he stepped back, only took a seat in a chair near the cot.

The nurse moved with the speed and precision of a veteran, wiping away the blood on Molly's face and raising her head gently to clean away the dried blood and matted hair that obscured the injury. Dimitri peeked over the older woman's shoulder and winced as he saw the gash, "You sure you don't need any help?", "Fine, if you're that eager to do something, pass me the gauze and scissors.". Dimitri obeyed without question, watching intently as the nurse lightly patted the wound and cut away some of the hair. Despite his guilt, Dimitri couldn't help but admit that this was actually pretty fascinating to watch, at least from a scientific standpoint.

[Assistant] "Depends on the situation." He answered honestly. "I'm not scheduled to eat for another hour."

[User]
Jack just continued to wander around the school for a bit, before he stumbled and realized how over exerted he was. He sighed again to himself, walking to the cafeteria, his thoughts just floating about in his head.

Once there, Jack made his way through the line and picked up pretty much whatever he could and as much as possible. He had arranged a few extra meals with the school due to his metabolic problems, so it wasn't abnormal for him to be in the cafeteria at any hour. He made his way to a table somewhere and began to pick at his food, which would look like normal eating to most people.


[System]
Age: 23
Race: Appears human
Job/title: Heir to the Blackwater corp.
Skills: Singing, observant, the rest to be roleplayed.
Hobbies: Hanging out at her fave coffee shop, watching storms, singing, seeing operas/shows.
Likes: Rain, romance, coffee, wine, reading, scary movies.
Dislikes: Rudeness, hypocrites, doing nothing.

Appearance: 5"6', waist length red hair and brownish red eyes. She's slender though toned and has gentle and slightly rounded features.

Other: Originally from where old England would have been, with the accent to match.

Backstory: Ruth is the heir to the Blackwater corp, which is a corporation dedicated to green living, plants, and modern day solutions to sustainability for everyone. She is only still learning about the company and tries her best to ensure she takes in as much information at any chance that it presents itself. Her lineage started so far back that sometimes even her own father, Rudy can't keep track anymore. Ruth's mother died though in an accident at work, though Ruth still doesn't have any clear answers as to what really happened, due to her father never wanting to speak about it.

The rest is to be roleplayed.

[User]
The Global Positioning System displays an arrow on the path through Nora's Digital Interfacing Gear, indicating her turn is in 100 meters. As she neared her turn, the client's song wound down and the next started up, blasting the newest, loudest, and most nonsensical of modern music. With a groan, she picked up speed. At least this client isn't inclined to converse about nothingness that is small matters, or isn't asking questions to which the answers are none of their business. Or crying. That may very well be the worst. At least the clients that are trying to get a cheeky make-out session in the back of her aircraft mostly have the good graces to keep it down.

The D.I.G. pops up with a warning- Your destination is on the left. Docking the aircraft on the pad, the music cuts out as the client gets a notification of the transit fee. Once the transaction is approved the doors open and the client departs. The music syncs back up with Nora's preferences as the door closes. Flipping off her "On Duty" status, Nora gets clearance for take-off from the Air Traffic AI. With a deep sigh, borne from boredom and hunger, she takes to the skyways.

The com beeps with and incoming communication. Accepting the call, a voice takes over the audio in Nora's earphones.

"I have a pick up on Broadcoast requesting you. Are you off already?"

"I'm on my union mandated lunch break, Tory." This happens all. the. time. Skye-Way Air Taxi is becoming more popular every day and they cannot keep up with staffing. The union means nothing when it means the company will lose a client. What once was a decent job quickly turned into a nightmare, and it's one Nora lives every day.

A conflicted sigh comes through the com, and then silence. It wasn't Nora's job to ease their minds over overworking their drivers, and she sure as hell wasn't about the break the silence first.

"Look, Huxter, we need you. How about we comp you your lunch? Just get over to Broadcost."

"Understood." Nora ends the communication with frustration. Blackwater Corp couldn't get back to her about her application soon enough.

Well, she may as well pick up some food and socially accepted chemical dependence on the way. Nora keys in the location of the little gem she recently found on her G.P.S., The Emerald Garden.

[Assistant]
Ruth watched out the big glass windows as beads of rain began to form on the outside. She smiled softly to herself as she carefully brought the hot mug of chai up to her lips, sipping it slowly. It went down with ease despite it's heat, and began to warm her from the inside out. Relaxing into the chair, she noticed a young male enter the shop, though he didn't seem too familiar with the place. She felt as though she had seen him around somewhere, but couldn't quite place him in a fully accessible memory. She simply shrugged it off as mistaking him for another.

Taking in his features though, she figured he had to be around her age, give or take a couple of years. He seemed to be waiting for something or someone, so Ruth turned her attention back to her chai for a few moments. She closed her eyes this time with the next sip, listening to the bell ring again as another person entered. It sure was busy this afternoon, though she normally didn't get here until closer to four or five. When Ruth opened her eyes again, they shifted from the mug of chai, to the newcomer who had entered.

This person looked to be older than Ruth. His hair was slicked back slightly and he had firm but handsome features with facial hair to accent them. He wore business attire with a cape that moved with him. He looked very formal to be visiting the Emerald Garden though, so this made Ruth curious. Her eyes followed him as he moved further into the shop, and he also seemed to be looking for someone. Her eyebrow arched up, though she realized she was probably staring a little too obviously.

To distract herself, she dug into her brown leather backpack, finding her wireless headphones and put them into her ears, putting one one of her current favorite songs "Electric Love" by BORNS. She allowed the music to fill her spirit, and bobbed her head along to the beat, taking her time to finish her drink while people passed outside the window.

[User]
The Emerald Garden was filling up fast!

Since Arthur had entered, a tall buisness man with a cape, two couples, and a group of six apparently having a lunch meeting have walked into the now bustling cafe.

Arthur was not at all comfortable about all these variables in his well constructed plan.

He ordered a cup of black coffee and slammed it back immediately, placing the mug on the counter in front of the now concerned looking barista. He took a deep breath, and started walking straight towards Ruth Blackwater, all concerns of approaching cautiously now forgotten.

He feared he didn't have the time adjust his plans on the fly, he didn't have the leisure to adjust his approach as the variables presented themselves. He had to take action now or risk not having an opportunity later.

He arrived at the table Ruth was sitting at. She was absorbed in her music as she stared at the beverage she was holding loosely with her left hand. Her hair covered her eyes on the side Arthur had approached and she didn't see him out of her peripheral vision. After a few seconds of Arthur standing there awkwardly she perhaps finally felt his presence and turned to look up towards him, taking one of her electronic sound suppliers out of her ears and arching her eyebrows in what Arthur recognized as a look of intrigue.

This was it. Everything that he had prepared for in the last two weeks had finally climaxed to this moment. He was prepared and ready. The words he was about to say and the things he'd tell her about project Chrysalis would most definitely shape the future for better or worse. He nodded internally (something he was not aware he could to until that moment) and opened his mouth to start his story.

"Mhmm Arthur." he mumbled

She took her other other electronic ear piece out and turned to face him with a confused look on her face.

Before she could say anything though Arthur simply stated he'd be right back and made a run for the restroom. His face felt hot and he felt a little like he would power down like he does when he goes into sentry mode at night.

He slammed the restroom door open, locked himself inside and started to laugh hysterically, not quite sure exactly what was going on except that he might be malfunctioning.

He needed to tell her, about project Chrysalis! And he would... right after he washed his face and found some words to say.

[Assistant]
Talon entered the promenade to a bustling cafe. He thought about grabbing a coffee but they didn't make cappuccino like your supposed to so he thought better and just watched Blackwater staff attending to gardening. It was quite a nice place to sit and watch thought Talon. Still...too much of a commercial setting. He clasped his hands behind his back and watched some of the patrons. It seemed a guy had summed up courage to ask a younger lady out but had chickened out at the last second running to a nearby bathroom. Talon just shook his head. "Gotta have confidence kid".

From behind A voice boomed. "Mr. Kaarde, to what do I owe this pleasure?".
Talon turned to see Mr. Blackwater himself, flanked by 4 suited protection agents. Big and hulking, no doubt full of chemicals and cybernetically enhanced as was the norm these days. He definitely looked tired to which Talon would take advantage of.

As he approaches Talon extends his hand "Mr. Blackwater, I appreciate you taking the time to see me, I will make this quick as I know you are a busy man". Blackwater asks "Quick and Dirty? Or on the level?". "When have I steered you wrong?" Asked Kaarde. "Never and that's how I intend it Talon" stated Rudy, ushering Talon to a table with the younger girl. "Have a seat, and let me introduce you to my daughter Ruth. I'm trying to teach her a thing or too before I forget all I know".

"I'll never forget so don't you worry" Talon semi seriously said. "However we will leave that for another time". Talon grabbed Ruth's hand to kiss it gently and said "Pleasure to meet you Ms. Blackwater. My name is Talon Kaarde and it's a pleasure to do business with you!"

[User]
Docking in the landing area, Nora secures the aircraft and buttons up her uniform jacket. The weather is miserable and only seems to get wetter by the minute. Taking her D.I.G. off and placing it on the ledge near the door, Nora hops out and locks up. Her stomach rumbles.

After a brisk walk she found herself in the warm sanctuary of the Emerald Garden. This cafe embodies everything Nora came to the Home Planet for. The lush, healthy plants that are meticulously cared for, the peaceful atmosphere, the kind staff, the content patrons, and the intoxicating aroma of coffee, spice, and flowers. As this was her third visit to the cafe she isn't overly familiar with the menu or the staff, but she has yet to be disappointed by either.

Looking around and noticing that everyone else seems to be with a friend, lover, or colleagues, Nora suddenly felt silly for being alone. Regret over leaving her D.I.G. in the aircraft washed over with her. At least if she had it she wouldn't have to people watch. Instead, her finger nails suddenly became intensely interesting until it was her turn to order.

"Hey there, what can I get you?" The barista, SASHA her nametag read, asked.

"Oh, sorry. Can I get the third drink on your menu and the third meal on your menu, to go?" Nora requested, looking up from her nails.

"Do you have a mug you would like to use?" Sasha asked as she rung up the total.

"No, I'll just rent one."

"Sure thing. How did you want to pay?" Nora picked up the ID card that hung around her neck and tapped it to the payment terminal. Rejected. Goddam Tory hasn't loaded her meal allowance onto her staff ID. Nora smiles weakly at Sasha as she pulls out her personal communications device and taps that instead. A receipt flashes on the screen as she shoves in back into her pocket. "Your order will be up on that counter over there." Sasha indicates to the counter further down.

Nora heads over to the washroom, a quick pitstop before heading back to the sky. She tries to open to door but it's locked, it must be occupied. Nora goes to stand with the other waiting for their orders.

[Assistant]
Lost in her music for a while, Ruth hadn't noticed the young man walking toward her. Once he approached though, she could feel his aura and presence. She turned her head, taking one of her ear buds out of her ear, watching him curiously. He looked pretty serious, like he had something important to say.

Instead of anything of importance coming from his mouth, all he said was "Mhmm Arthur."

In response, Ruth furrowed her brow and took out the other ear bud, turning her head slightly in confusion. She opened her mouth to introduce herself, when suddenly he ran off to the public washroom. Only a few minutes later, she heard a very familiar voice, and another that was unfamiliar. Even though she shouldn't feel anxious, she suddenly was as the sound of her father's voice surrounded her.

With this, Ruth sat up straight and watched as the unknown gentleman, who she had watched enter the cafe what seemed like only minutes ago, lift her hand and kiss it. She had a tendency to lose track of the time while she was here, so she really didn't know how long she had been sitting there. But either way, that didn't matter. She felt weird that her dad was hanging out at her favorite coffee shop. She didn't want to be rude though, so she smiled a soft smile at the man, listening him to him introduce himself as Talon Kaarde. Apparently there would be some deal going on? She was wary of him and her eyes narrowed just slightly.

"Well Dad, it was... So nice to see you here... At my favorite coffee place... But I think I should get going and head home. After all, you told me not to be late tomorrow," Ruth said, trying to sound nonchalant but more than likely failing at that. With this she turned to Talon once more, speaking a little less awkwardly, "It was nice to meet you, Talon. I'm sure I'll be seeing more of you."

Ruth grabbed the now empty mug, and turned, walking swiftly away toward the special drop box for used dish ware. She dropped the mug in gently, and glanced around quickly. She noticed a woman with braids seeming to be waiting for her order. With that thought, Sasha had called out the order and Ruth watched as the woman took it. It was then she noticed she was wearing the typical driver uniform. She sighed in relief, moving quickly over to her and tapping her softly on the shoulder.

"Hi. Sorry to bother you during your break, but I was wondering if I could get a ride back to my apartment... Like, as quickly as possible. I need to get out of here."


[System]
Character Sheet
Age: 19
Sex: Male
Gender: Male
Height: 6'1"
Major: Astrophysics
Occupation: Waiter at a local restaraunt
Hobby: Swimming, Jim is a huge swimming fan.
Personal Theme-Music: Ludovico Einaudi - Experience
Example of Speech: "I genuinely believe, 100%, that aliens are real. Are you kidding? Seriously? Where's your proof, goddammit!"
Example of Action: Jim sat in the chair, fingers twitching, eyes focusing on the girl across the room like a laser tracking beacon. "Do it," she said. He stood up, and slowly strutted his way to her. Body tense, eyes locked, footsteps careful. He leaned down, one hand softly cradling the velvety skin of her neck, the other combing her hair behind her ear, a glowering intensity between the two. His hand moved behind her head and pulled out a quarter. His lips moved closer to her ear and breathed, "Ta-da."
Description of Voice: Intense, passion behind every word he says. Not deep, but not high pitched either. Enough to give the impression that he isn't a boy, and not a man, but someone who should always stay a teenager and enjoy life.
Physical Appearance: Standing around 6'1" and with an athletic, lean build to help his swimming. Dirty blond hair, icy blue eyes and a long 5-inch scar running diagonally on his back from when he was a kid and fell out of a tree and landed on debris left underneath it.

[User]
Henri woke up with a startle, and took a quick look through the window. After he saw that they stopped, he realized he must have slept through the trip. It's been over a week since he arrived in the country, so he didn't have jet lag anymore, but he simply wasn't used to waking up as early as they did this morning. Henri was glad that he could join Jim in his trip; while it was nice staying at his relatives, he had to admit it was getting monotonous staying there, and preferred company closer to his own age. The reason he came to America was to take a break from his studies and make new memories. He just hoped he didn't embarrass Jim during their stay there, as there were still some things about American culture he didn't have a full grasp on yet.

"Sure," Henri answered as he hopped out of the car and grabbed his baggage. He wondered if he joked about the two of them being hillbillies, but didn't ask any further, assuming it was an American joke. Jim's changed a lot over the years, but he's still cracking jokes like in the good old days, which made Henri smile when he thought about it. He went to grab his baggage, and patted Rocketman a bit. He was allergic to animals when he was younger, but fortunately he grew out of it. He then thanked Jim's mother for driving them there: "Kiitos kun kyytsäsit meidät tänne. Olisin itse ajanut, mutta en ole tottunut ajamaan näillä amerikkalaisilla autoilla, automaattisia kun ovat. Väsyttikin aika pahasti myös."

Once he saw aunt Brody off, Henri turned around and noticed they weren't the only ones who arrived. He assumed the other two were also going for the cabin, since Dominic did say that his friend Victoria had a bunch of folks invited. There wasn't anything noteworthy about the guy except that he dressed better than the rest of e'm, but the girl was more interesting; Henri had a suspicion she was a foreigner like him. He was puzzled by the fact that Jim suddenly started talking to them like that. Maybe it was an American custom to greet strangers on the street, he thought. He simply stood beside him, not sure if he should have greeted them like he did or not.

[Assistant]
"Oh, Mélanie," Paul said in surprise, putting on a friendly smile when she approached him, "Yeah, I thought I was, I was a little worried I took the wrong bus. But since you're here too I must've found the right place. I'm just not sure which way the cabin is though. I was gonna ask around for directions but there's barely anyone here."

As they talked, two more people soon appeared. Two guys, one slightly taller than him and the other slightly shorter, walked up to them, with the taller guy introducing himself.

"Anything out here would look beautiful compared to the city." Paul agreed with a small grin. To be honest he wasn't all that wrong. The city was nice but it was drab, crowded, and smoggy. Even if he was a bit anxious to be in the great outdoors for the first time ever, it was already very refreshing for him. "I'm Paul," he continued, reaching a hand out to shake Jim's, "And yeah, we're here for Victoria. This is Mélanie," he nodded towards her, "We have a class together, and she invited me along." He was going to say she was his friend, but he didn't want to assume so in case she didn't see them as friends. They still didn't really know each other too well, after all.

Paul noted how Jim said he was invited by a different guy. So far, that sounded like a total of four guys that would be at the cabin, with only two girls. The gender ratio was a little off balance here, but maybe there would be another girl or two that would be arriving as well. Besides, these two guys seemed nice enough so far anyway. Though Jim's friend seemed to be a bit shy and was hanging back from the group.

[User]
Dominic sighed contentedly as a light breeze picked up and blew against the back of his neck. He zipped up and turned away from the tree he had just unceremoniously relieved himself on. He walked slowly back to the road and the jeep parked on the side, its drivers door ajar. Before getting in once more he stretched a bit, loosening up his body. He climbed back in and shut the door. He reached over to the floor in front of the passenger's seat searching for a bottle of hand sanitizer he had seen roll down there a few hours earlier. Finding it, he grabbed it and quickly got back into his seat. In doing so, he nearly knocked the plastic bottle out of the cup holder. Though the liter bottle had been full of water earlier, it now held some discarded sunflower seed shells. He squeezed some of the hand sanitizer into his hand a rubbed it in, the alcohol smell temporarily blocking out the scents of the plants and flowers around him.

Once he felt clean once more, Dominic shifted out of park and got going down the small road once more. The sun glinted off his sunglasses and the wind lightly pushed at the bill of his hat, a light attempt to pull it off his head. Dom grinned. This feeling right here was why he had left his crappy secondhand sedan at home and borrowed his brother's less-crappy secondhand jeep for the summer. Though he'd spent some time with Victoria and seen her out a bit, he had to admit he was surprised she felt she knew him well enough to invite him out to the cabin for the summer. It was college and the idea of girls coming on strong wasn't entirely foreign to him, but it really had seemed genuine when she came to him with her idea to spend the summer in a cabin with some friends. He initially invited Jim, an old friend from high school who he'd recently reconnected with. Eventually that meant inviting the his cousin Henri. He'd met the guy just before the trip and he seemed pretty chill. The more the merrier, right?

Up ahead, a few small buildings came into view. Was this the stop? He wasn't entirely sure, but the length of time he had been driving seemed about right. He approached slowly, and he could eventually make out a store called Ben's and a small group of people outside. Could they be his group? Or perhaps some local kids? He wondered if there were any people their own age around to speak of. He pulled up to the store and parked the jeep, noticing that Jim and Henri were definitely among the group. He grinned. Hopefully they were too involved in their conversation to bother to check who it was in the jeep. He banged on the horn once quickly followed by a prolonged honk. With a chuckle, Dominic climbed out of the jeep and walked over to the group, his arms held out. "Jim! Henri! Good to see you made it!" He threw an arm around each of their shoulder's pulling them in. He then removed his right arm from around Henri and gestured to the other two. "Are you two going to be joining us at the cabin?" He looked from Paul to Mélanie. "Either way, a pleasure to meet you. I'm Dominic," he continued, offering out his hand.

[Assistant]
"Guess you should be glad I'm here to rescue you eh?" She said with a grin. "Victoria gave me some directions, but we should probably start walking, don't want to be the last ones to arrive." For someone who's supposed to be this ethereal philosopher type, Mélanie always tried to be as punctual as possible. She adjusted the guitar on her back before turning around.

It seemed that the two humanities students would not be the last ones to arrive after all, as two men had walked up, introducing themselves as other guests of Victoria's. One of them introduced himself as Jim, while the other remained silent. Jim towered over Mélanie and his build was evidence that he wasn't one to just laze around the house. The other looked vaguely European but Mélanie couldn't be entirely sure from where, or if he even was from Europe in the first place.

After Paul's introduction, Mélanie spoke up. "Allo Jim," she said with a bit of an awkward wave in the direction of the two men, as much as Mélanie loved meeting new people, the introductions rarely went exactly to plan. She hoped she'd make up for it as the summer went on.

Mélanie jumped at the honk of the horn, she hadn't even really noticed the Jeep pulling in to the lot. The man who stepped out was yet another well built man, this one significantly shorter than Jim the giant. He introduced himself as Dominic, presumably the "Dom" Jim had mentioned earlier. "Oui, we'll be seeing each other quite a bit this summer I assume." Mélanie said with a smile before shaking Dominic's hand. "I'm Mélanie, this is a friend of mine, Paul." She looked at the group, which consisted of quite a bit of testosterone to say the least, though she assumed that they'd be alright, none of them seemed obnoxious on first impressions. "Well, I think we should, uh… 'get a move on' as you English speakers say, don't want to leave Victoria waiting."

[User]
"Mélanie. Paul," Jim said, a nod at each of them and a grin. He shook Paul's hand, but the girl didn't seem up much for a handshake so he let it slide. Jim wasn't up for forcing himself upon anyone. "I can't say I disagree Paul, can't say I disagree. You guys ever been fishing? I read there's a great lake here, serene. Stunning, not that it surprises me. Fish in abundance. I haven't been fishing, in, well damn, years. We're here for a while, might as well make the most of it," he laughed, not a cold 'let's get this over with' snigger, but a hearty 'summer is here, let's get it on' chuckle. Jim opened the side pocket of his rucksack and pulled out a pair of aviators, planting them in front of his eyes.

Mélanie's off-kilter accent intrigued Jim. It wasn't American, but he couldn't particularly place it. Italian? French? "I love your accent, but where's it from? European, I assume?" he asked tentatively. He didn't want to offend anyone at this early stage in their holiday, nor did he want to come off as brash. Jim wasn't brash, but he was forward when he had to be. He had a way of finding out what he wanted to find. Most people found the intensity in his words enough to convince them that he truly did want to know the answer. His movements had been specially tailored to create an air of confidence but also of care. Rarely did he do something or say something and not mean it. When he asked a question, he wanted the answer. When he laughed, he was enjoying himself. When he kissed a girl, he kissed the girl. Jim was a man of doing.

Jim was basking in the sunlight, letting it splash down his shirt and warm his chest when the horn startled him. He skittered on the gravel until he turned around and saw Dominic Rocha in his Jeep. "Dom, you ass! Great to see you, my man, great to see you! How long has it been you reckon?" Jim exclaimed, wrapping his arm around the neck of the guy who walked up behind him. He had found Dominic through a friend of a friend of a friend, so to speak. Back when they were kids the were great friends, but people had to move and friendships are difficult to maintain over distance's it seemed. Standing next to Jim were two examples of that. Or maybe there was just a common denominator here; Jim. That saddened him. But the coming months were for friendships, fun, and whatever else may come. Jim looked forward to that. To it all. To everything.

Jim listened to what the blonde girl had to say. "Sure. Is there anyone else we have to wait for? All of our party is here, you two are present, and I'm assuming our gracious host is at the cabin," he said. He didn't know how many people were invited. For all Jim knew this was going to be a toga party from Animal House. Or Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Or it could be perfectly normal. But life never happens like it should on paper. He was fully prepared for something to become a sordid mess, and even more prepared for a boat load of weird. Whatever. Roll with the punches.


[System]
Personal Information
Age: 16
Sex: Female
Date of Birth: 13/08
Grade Level: Second
Appearance:
Personality: Calm and collected, her appearance would lead one to think she would be the type to be very social and popular with the crowd, but in reality, she is quite shy and very hard to approach unless you were her friend. And even then she may not say much save her rare smile over her usual neutral expression.

Combat Information
Main Arcana: Hermit
Compatible Arcana: Fortune, Priestess
HP/SP: 50/140
Mask: Crow Mask
Weapon Type: Spear (Pierce)
Equipment:
Broomstick: A broomstick with the end removed. Why are you even using this? Deals 15 pierce damage.
Armor:Comfortable Sweater. Comfortably comfortable wear.
Accessory:Running Shoes. The worn soles hints at its use.
Clothes: Default.

Initial Persona
Name: Nacien
Arcana: Hermit
Origin: From Arthurian Legend. The holy hermit that introduced Galahad to the Round Table.
Appearance:
Skills: Garu
Cost:4
Effect:Deals 45 Damage to one target
Sukunda
Cost:12
Effect: Foe's roll decreases by 1.
Rakunda
Cost:12
Effect:Damage to foe increases by 20%.
Bewilder
Cost:5
Distresses 1 foe. (25% chance)
Resistances: * Slash: -
* Strike: -
* Pierce: -
* Fire: -
* Water: -
* Ice: -
* Electric: -
* Earth: Weak
* Wind: Str
* Light: Nul
* Darkness: Weak

Bonuses Acquired: Combat Skills +15Dmg, HP+10 SP+60
Arcana Ranks:3 Priestess, 3 Hermit, 2 Fortune
Monies:4860

[User]
April 9
th
 / Sunday / Sunny

"I'm trying to tell all of you dumbasses that I don't want to hang around here any longer – I know where this is heading, and there's a re-run of Jojo-jo-jojojo's Series of Unfortunately Bizarre Adventures today. I don't want to miss it!"

Haruto Okada was currently ganged up in an alleyway being haggled down by three punks, who all stood a head taller than the short Haruto, and who all wanted to try their hands on taking on the "King" – a name that a few delinquents have given Haruto because of something amazing he apparently did – Haruto could hardly care about that. Around the time the name started circulating around, Haruto had just discovered the Unfortunately Bizarre Adventures franchise, and much of his focus had been to return to the front of the television in a timely manner. This day wasn't much different.

"So we heard the King is someone more terrifying to look at, but you're built pretty weakly, aren't you? What's up with that?"

"Johnny the Buster wasn't too muscular in Unfortunately Bizarre Adventures, and he still kicked ass."

"Why do you keep on bringing up anime!?"

"The re-run that's on today was an episode I couldn't watch due to unforeseen and incredibly mortifying circumstances. I know I'm not supposed to be a well-spoken character, but damn if I'm not going to try and talk my way out of this one so I can go watch the episode!"

"Well, we're not going to leave, so you better get ready, you little-"

"Stop acting like fictional delinquents from shounen manga, you idiots. Now will you kindly fuck off, PLEASE!"

In response to that, the three thugs ended up taking a few steps back, only to enter fighting stances that left Haruto no room to jump away and make his escape. He only had ten minutes before the airtime, and no nameless punks were going to stand between him and that precious re-run. As the center punk threw a straight right towards Haruto's nose, the young boy leaped into the air and pressed his feet against the brick wall behind him. With the roar of a predator out for blood, Haruto kicked himself over the assault and tackled the punk into the ground, proceeding to viciously beat the thug unconscious.

The other two punks were paralyzed in fear as Haruto performed the acts of wrathful demons right in front of them, and as Haruto stomped on the now down delinquent, he quietly turned towards the other two with fury burning in his eyes. The other thugs wanted to run, but the venom and malice in Haruto's voice stopped them from moving.

"You two aren't going anywhere"

The screams of the punks broke the silence of the otherwise peaceful alleyway that evening.

April 10
th
 / Monday / Sunny

The unfortunate truth of the matter is that Haruto got so furious about the situation yesterday that he ended up missing the re-run of the anime he wanted to watch, and he ended up missing dinner while moping about the sad reality of the evening events. Much like how he managed to maintain perfect attendance, he has never failed to watch an episode of Jojo-jo-jojojo's Series of Unfortunately Bizarre Adventures, and the episode was Johnny the Buster's climactic battle against the Magnificent Gucci, who had attained an ultimate power capable of creating a new universe.

How will this intense and insanely entertaining part come to an end? Haruto would never know, and he refuses to go online to try and find a recording of it – it wasn't the same as watching it on television, and he was insanely spoiled in that regards.

So intense was his depression that he absolutely ignored the fact that his roommate, Bride, might've remembered to record the anime – but they weren't super close, and hardly in the room at the same time. Haruto couldn't just walk up to him and say "Yo, Bride, my man or woman, did you remember to record the episode of Unfortunately Bizarre Adventures today for me?"

Fucking preposterous.

Haruto had to drag himself out of bed, slipping into his uniform while still wearing his large jacket – he always kept the blazer in his bag, and liked wearing his jacket over the dress shirt instead. Some had issues with it, but no one brought it up with Haruto, so what does it matter?

Walking himself through the kitchen, he grabbed a piece of untoasted bread, said "sup" to his roommate who was chewing some fruit, and went out the door. Haruto had enough insight to know that if he was going to mope about missing his anime in his room during the morning, he was going to also ruin his perfect attendance. And what does he have to say to that? Fuuuuck that.

[Assistant]
April 9th / Sunday / Sunny

The xanthous ball of plasma that had begun its lazy arc through the sky marking the start of the day. It was a pleasant day if any there had ever been, without a cloud in the sky to obstruct the vast expanse of spring blue that stretched across the horizon. The animals outside were active and the chipper of a spear of beards could be heard through the crack of an open window as they flew by Koden Academy. A cool breeze came from the east and with it the scent of pollen and fresh cut grass. It was the the start of the second week of April and the sense of apprehension in the air around Koden Academy was so thick you could taste it on your tongue. Classes started tomorrow and most of the students would be preparing for the start of the new school year tomorrow. Not that many cared for it, most of the student body made up of some of the brightest students in the country. Koden had pride in the fact that in your math class you could very well be sitting next to the future Prime Minister or Parliamentary Chairmen. They had nothing to worry about, though one girl was worried about the approaching tomorrow as she tried her best not to think of it.

 Unmei Masako did not like school. Clarification. Unmei Masako never liked school since she was a little girl. The constant drone of the teachers, the boring textbooks filled with information you will never have to know again, the pit of dread that forms in the stomach before a test. She hated it all. Masako would rather be out anywhere running, or doing something productive with her time then being locked in a concrete legalized prison camp for adolescents. In all honestly she didn't even believe that she belonged her with all this prodiges and geniuses and then completely average her. All she contributed in her past two years of attending Koden was being able to run pretty well for Track and Field but even then she was sure they could of found a better smart person that could also run as fast as her. So why was she here?

The shortest and the simplest answer was her father. Mister Unmei was a very wealthy and very powerful man with many friends in the government and the business world. Unmei Heavy Industries like most companies started out as a weapons manufacture during the Second World War. Today it was one of the largest government contractors in Japan and whether people knew it or not they were using Unemi products everyday. Unmei built machinery towed their elevators, they rode on trains riding on tracks laid down by Unmei construction equipment and used cars using Unmei engines. So when it came time for thinking about his only daughters education, well an important man like him dared not send her to the pittle and grime of Public Schools, no she would only get the best and the best was Koden. It was always that way, Masako never got to prove herself in anything because father's money spoke louder than words every time.

She sat slouched on the chair in front of her desk which neatly had a stack of books on one corner and a plethora of different colors of pens in a small square cup in the other. The books were her reading for the year, textbooks that were destined to never leave their same position on the desk and accumulate dust over a slow period of time. Of course she didn't believe that. No this year was going to be "different", this year she wasn't going to lose steam and come crashing to another stand still like last year and barely scrape by. No she was going to seize the initiative, she was going to study, she was going to hand things in on time and she was going to prove that she didn't need her father's legacy to get through life. Yeah like that was going to happen

"No... I got this!" She muttered to herself clenching her right hand into a fist and nodding her head. She stood up and grabbed the water bottle that was on the desk. She was going to go out, probably just run for awhile until she couldn't run anymore. That would help deal with the stress, calm down the nerves and allow her to focus on something else beside school for awhile. Yeah that sounded like a plan.

April 10th/ Monday/ Sunny
The sharp shrill tones of an alarm clock knocked her awake with the impact of a prize fighter. She looked towards the numbers and her mind suddenly jump with recognition she had overslept again had'nt she? Of course she did, she always did whenever it was important at least. She had a very small window of opportunity to be able to get there early and get a good seat but she would have to run. It would require haste and it would require dumb luck. Masako got out of bed well more like fell with style catching herself before her face could slam against the floor. She quickly got changed grabbing the School Uniform for her closet and shrugging it on over her smallclothes: shirt check, jacket that was starting to hang a little too close in the chest area check, skirt despised it but check. Her hair was a mess but there was nothing to do about that now and so she bundled it up quickly and using a simple black hair band pulled it back into a longish ponytail. She threw her books into a small bag which she threw over one shoulder and bolted out the door. It seemed to be the start of another average year.

She ran as quickly as she could, having three near high speed collisions and having to juke out of the way and step onto the finely trimmed grass much to the chagrin of the groundskeeper to make it around a group of chatty girls a year younger than her. Taking the paths that through two years worth of experience new would get her there the quickest with the least foot traffic, She eventually made it to the designated building with time to spare though of course without breakfast and a little out of breath. She cursed herself as things were already getting to a spectacular start and she was already not at all excited to deal with learning at this very moment. What class was she even going to? Oh right geography of all things. Lets look at continental plates and talk about rocks! Yeah like that was going to be anything but a bore. But she had to try, she had to prove that she could do this. Taking a deep breath she centered herself and entered the building.

She got to the classroom just as the rest of the students began to file in. There was a foreign boy with an mp3 player, another boy drinking coffee of some sort in the center looking extremely ready and extremely bored at the same time, an extraordinary chipper young man that seemed to be just a big ball of sunshine, a boy in a very large jacket rather strange with the uniform but nothing major, and wait... Was that a girl or a boy or you know what better to not ask any questions. She moved past them and headed to the far side of the room that boasted the three sets of large rectangular windows and assumed her position in the backhand corner. As soon as she made contact with the desk she brought her hand down in between her arms and sighed hoping nobody would notice her disheveled state. Hoping that she could at least catch a breather before the teacher came in. This was going to be one long year...

[User]
April 9th / Sunday / Sunny

There wasn't much for her to do today. All her homework was done and dealt with, other chores were already finished, and no part time job to worry about.

Ito Natsuki leaned against the bench, enjoying the feel of the cool breeze under the shade. Hinode park was quite peaceful at this time of day, as peaceful as it will ever get with kids running around and a few adults doing their own thing. Somehow... Natsuki didn't feel quite right whenever she was at the school or in the dorms. It wasn't as if she was being bullied or anything, the girls there seemed very polite, happy and quite keen on helping her with anything she might have a problem with.

Natsuki felt a nudge by her foot, which, upon closer inspection, was revealed to be a rather dusty football.

"Sorry mister!" Came the call from one of the young boys running about.

Wordlessly she stood up,kicking the ball back towards them, watching them immediately fall upon the ball, running and kicking with abandon. How carefree they were, she thought. If only these simple days last forever...

April 10th / Monday / Sunny

Natsuki continued reading, giving a slight smile and nod as the girls in her classroom gave her a greeting. It was common enough by now that she didn't feel bothered by it, or the group that sometimes followed her. They seemed to be very shy as well. She once caught one of the girls alone, and they blushed a deep hue of red then rushed off before Natsuki could even ask where the teacher was. It was not as if she had the right to criticize someone on that though, for she has the same problem trying to even talk to people.

She glanced at the clock on the wall, noting the time. Quietly she took her things, and stopped by the toilet, adjusting her tie, making sure her shirt was properly tucked into her pants, and generally making sure she didn't look like a slob. Once she was in the lecture room, she took one of the back seats out of consideration for others.

Being taller than average was a pain sometimes.


[System]
Age: 15
Element: Flora (Earth Specialization)
Appearance:
Personality: Jideh is outgoing, and contemplative in turns. He tends to burst out into a scene with exuberance, and then go quiet for a span of time. Most people would put Jideh down as a wind user. But they haven't seen him in a garden before, when his energy is directed at the beauty of the earth around him. He can be tender, and nurturing, to a rosebush he happens upon one minute, and then be boisterous, even irritating, to a fellow student he meets adjacent to the aforementioned rosebush. To put Jideh's personality into its core precepts, Jideh is;

Mercurial - Like the plants that he loves to care for, different parts of Jideh's persona bloom depending on the situation.
 Jideh is so changeable that he can, in the course of a day, run through the entire emotional spectrum!

Peaceable - Jideh hates fighting, and will jump into a fight to end it, while judging harshly the person who started it. He
 believes there is always a choice between calm discussion, and senseless aggression.

Inquisitive - Jideh is a curious fellow who likes to learn by doing, and will usually figure things out just as fast as
 somebody who reads a book on the topic. He likes to puzzle things out. Especially word games.

Sensitive - Jideh cares about people, and he cares about what they have to say. Jideh takes everybody at their word, and if
 somebody tells him something using strong vernacular, he can take to heart that they believe what they say.

History: Jideh's history is simple. Jideh was born to a loving family some hundreds of kilometres away from the school, and when he manifested his ability to manipulate flora, the family's farm flourished. It was during a dry spell when Jideh nearly died from over-expending his energy that his family realized how much they were using him as a tool for their own gain, and so for his own benefit as well as their consciences, they sent him away to the school. The Basrah family farm still provides food to locations all over the world, and they consider Jideh to be their pride and joy. Their hope is that in time, Jideh will forgive them for their mistake, and that he will return to them even stronger than before, not only to furnish the land, but also to expand the farm and take over as its head. Jideh still doesn't know if that is the future that he desires, but he has come to the Elemental School nonetheless in the hopes that he will be able to figure out what he wants out of life throughout the course of the school year.

Equipment: Jideh has a seed pouch, Swiss Army Trowel, and his father's work gloves. These three things he carries with him no matter where he is.

So in terms of what flora is... At least to my mind anyway, is the following;

Flora is the domain of existence which encompasses the form of matter that self-replicates and falls firmly into the plantae category of taxonomic organization. This domain also includes the fungi category, however most wielders of flora have a stronger affinity for either/or. To give an idea of the sorts of things that a Flora wielder can manipulate, picture a forest.

In this forest, there are trees, bushes, grass, perhaps. These are all things which can be classified in the domain of plantae and thus are able to be manipulated by a Flora wielder. That being said, places like forests and jungles and meadows (and caves if you specialize in fungi) are where Flora wielders are in their element. As much as a water user would love to be near a lake, or a fire user, near a well, fire, so too do Flora wielders find their strength and comfort in places teeming with plant life. So naturally, Flora wielders despise deserts, mountains, urban sprawls, and anywhere where plant-life is stifled or neglected. There are other conditions which disadvantage a plantae filled environment, such as disease, droughts, erosion, and pollution. Conversely, flora-wielders can improve their environment through gardening, agriculture, horticulture, and collaboration with users of other elements.

So of course now, we have to look at the interactions between Flora and the other elements.

Fire - You'd think that there would be zero compatibility here, but Flora recognizes the need to clear out old dead growth, and to purify the land for new planting. So there's a mutual respect, where Fire understands that Flora provides it with fuel, and Flora understands that Fire needs to be fed so as to allow for continued prosperity.

Water - Again most would say there should be an obvious affinity for water, however Flora knows that water can just as easily drown, erode, and evaporate, and remains cautious. Water on the other hand, is desperate for Flora's attentions because Flora can purify water, and filter out impurities. Flora rather bitterly, realizes that this leaves the impurities with them, and can have rough relationships with Water. Still, the two have a utilitarian relationship that has its highs and lows.

Earth - The Earth is Flora's cradle, and Flora's mother. Unlike the previous two, you would be correct in assuming that Earth users and Flora users go together like PB and J. Because of their close proximity to each other, and their reliance on each other, common is the pairing of an Earth wielder and a Flora wielder. That said, they are vehement in their desire to be seen as distinct from one another. So much so that there is a relatively well-known demonstration performed by these aforementioned couplings in which a Flora wielder will germinate a bean on a tile, and using a spurt of energy, cause the plant to bloom and grow all on its own. The bean will then wither and die over the course of a few minutes. The corresponding Earth wielder will then take a handful of soil and spread it on the dead bean. The Flora user tries to resurrect the dead bean, but to no avail. Alternatively, a sample of soil is filtered of all its nutrients and compared to a sample with nutrients provided from Flora, the difference is quite tangible. The difference between Soil, and Dirt, some say, is the covenant between Earth and Flora. The message is clear; The earth is where Flora lives, but it is not the Earth that gives Flora its essence. That is Flora and Flora's alone.

Light - Flora wielders maintain a similar relationship with Light as the one they have with Earth, albeit with much less confusion over the distinction in elements. Flora usually like having Light around so much it could be viewed as clingy, however if you had to depend on photosynthesis to survive, you might be clingy too.

Blood, Lightning, and Aetherial - Flora could care less about blood, since most everything in the domain has sap, or sugar-water, or other means of storing and transporting nutrients. Flora has a healthy respect for lightning, especially since Nitrogen producing phenomena are very beneficial to the domain of plantae. And much like all the other elements, Flora shrug at Aetherial, coming when called, but indifferent to its use.

What can a Flora wielder do?

Most anything involving plantae's natural functions and the abilities inherent, sometimes exaggerated to magical levels, or manipulated in unnatural ways. It's more beneficial to look at what a Flora wielder can't do.

What can't a Flora wielder do?

-Control any of the other elements, obviously. They can't control Earth, just the nutrient dispersion and absorption from Earth. They can't control Water, just how much of it is absorbed and released through respiration, etc. etc.

-A Flora wielder can't revive something that is dead. Nor can they use Flora magic to kill living plantae which is why Flora rely on Fire users as much as they do.

-A Flora wielder can't create new forms of plantae, only selectively breed, the old fashioned way gardeners do it.

-A Flora wielder can't manipulate plants to grow faster without taking the energy from within themselves or a willing other. If the energy is available and large enough however, they can accelerate growth exponentially and with extreme precision. This is the reason why a) Flora wielders are constantly taking in calories but never grow overweight, and b) Flora wielders tend to accrue large groups of non-Flora friends who can equally take in massive amounts of calories and never grow fat. In short, Flora Wielders are banned from Eating Contests, and are the world's most efficient personal trainers!

So there you have it! I hope this gives a better idea of what my Element idea is, and hopefully convinces you that this can really be a distinct element from Earth! After all,

Relinquo Foliorum Deorum.
I leave the leaves of gods. Note: @Zelosse has confirmed that Flora is a specialization of Earth, however, he hasn't said no to anything previously discussed. So I'm going to go with it! :D

[User]
---

Amelia Lycrosse

---

 "Steampunk is the best thing ever invented," Amelia exclaimed indignantly. "Percy Jackson is a very good book." She noticed the distinctly uncomfortable look on Jideh's face as they entered the tram station, but didn't say anything. When they arrived at the sushi restaurant. "I love sushi," she stated when they got there. "My favorite is salmon. But then again, I just love salmon." She laughed."What do you like to read? I love steampunk, but you haven't heard of it. I'll lend you my copy of Highfell Grimoires when we get back. What's your favorite book?" The waitress arrived and took their order.

[Assistant]
Peeking out from his hands, he looked up carefully, but his face soon lit up. "Braids!" Zeke recognised the cloud over a girl's head, and waved. "Braids!" Someone else had joined the group as well, but he didn't immediately make any connection. Instead, he walked over to Braids and gave her a brief hug. "I was walking and I got bumped into by a puddle and now I'm confused. Please help," He asked, and looked back at the group. Only then did he recognise the dark-skinned girl. Not that they were rare, but something about the way she held herself. "Bookie!" He grinned, hugging her as well. Smiling at both of them, he felt a lot more confident.

The girl with the horns was looking at him, but he couldn't be sure about the floppy doll. "Um, Bookie, can you also help?" If he had two people helping him explain, maybe it'll be easier. He took a deep breath, very definitely did not think about Viola and hugging her and... No. "I'm Zeke, I take photographs, and I don't remember people if I don't see them a lot because faces all look the same to me. Or like nothing. It's hard to explain," He closed his eyes and shook his head. He stepped a little closer to Braids. And a little behind her. He wasn't scared or anything, just uncomfortable. "And class starts soon," he added.

Algorithm@Rune_Alchemist@Crusader Lord@Sailorsadie

[User]
Jideh nodded to the waitress, a middle-aged Asian woman, and asked for a plate of assorted sushi rolls, some tempura, and three servings of wasabi-slathered open rolls. His mouth started watering as he spoke, and he swallowed weakly once she repeated the order back to him. "You know, I think I'd also like to get a plate of udon too. Thank you." The waitress took Amelia's order, and left them. Another waiter soon came by and offered them water. Jideh accepted the jug graciously and topped his glass off. He drank the whole thing in one go.

After he felt his throat grow a little less dry, Jideh cleared it and replied to Amelia's question. "You know, I guess I don't have a favourite book. It's not that I don't like to read. I didn't have tons of time to do it on the farm is all. I've been reading plenty of biochemistry, elementalism, and botanical textbooks, the library has tons, but I don't think that's quite what you were asking for. Fact is, you seem like you've read a lot more than I have." He blushed as he said it, than blushed harder when he realized he blushed. He grit his teeth, chastising himself. Not being a bookworm is nothing to be ashamed of you idiot! And why are you even blushing in the first place! Jideh exhaled and took a deep breath. He pulled at his jacket collar, and felt uncomfortably sweaty. Since when was it so hot in here? He took his jacket off and laid it out on the back of his chair. He tried to sit still and cool off which only partially worked.

"Look, I may not have read much fiction, but I can name any of the plants that they've "installed" in the restaurant. Just by sight too. I'd like to think I've got a pretty huge catalogue of plants in my head, and that's why I've not had time to read your... Steampunk, was it? That one just behind your head for instance, it's known as Prunus mume in Latin, but more commonly in Japan for instance, it's called Ume. Basically, it's a Japanese apricot. That cut of it has the flower, but it's purely ornamental. A ya... Yabai?" Jideh got out of his seat and rounded the table to kneel next to Amelia, getting a closer look at the flower. He brushed his hand lightly along the branch, feeling the petals, and one fell into his open palm. Jideh tsked, and laid the petal on the corner of the table, before returning to his seat.

"They must have to replant these poor things every few business days. At least, the ones that aren't plastic. They could cut costs and use authentic flower arrangements if they had actually done their homework. When the waitress comes back, maybe I can ask her who's responsible for this disaster. I kept a garden along with my Aunt, and she used to tell me that if I ever came across trampled stock, I ought to have a word with the person responsible. Suppose old habits die hard."


[System]
* Age: 16
* Appearance: "Oh, so that's how it is?"
* Personality: Good-natured friendliness is an excellent way to describe Nanako's default attitude. No matter who it is, she'll always try to treat them well, and try to get to know them, even if it almost seems impossible. This can be called the core of Nanako's attitude. Even if there is thousands of years between herself and someone else, she'll do all that she can to understand them and get to know them. She simply doesn't believe in treating people as if they're somehow foreign to humanity simply because of things like that. Additionally, she has a very optimistic outlook on life. Nanako always believes there has to be some path forward, even if it's difficult to see at the moment. She is the sort of person who treasures those that are close to her, to the point of considering their wellbeing well before her own. Indeed, it would seem as if it's very difficult to break her cheerful demeanor... however, it isn't impossible. While she usually doesn't allow it to bother her, it cannot be denied that Nanako sometimes has feelings of inferiority due to her low capability as a magus, and the fact that she has yet to summon a Servant. She tries not to let this affect her, but it's difficult for her not to feel down about it at times. Additionally, while she isn't without self-worth, sometimes she is extremely quick to dive into dangerous situations for the sake of others. Even if those others are Servants who are probably better equipped to deal with it then she is.
* Abilities: Nanako possesses low capability as a magus. While it's not accurate to call her totally talent-less, her magic circuits are of average quality and she has a relatively low number of them. Not rock bottom, but hardly the best, and most of the actual magi of Fusang surpass her. Her affinity for Air does grant her some versatility, but she does not possess a wide range of spells due to the youth of her family. If there is one thing it can be said she excels at, her reinforcement typically grants her a surprising durability even in consideration of other magi. This is quite useful for someone who has a habit of throwing herself into danger for the sake of other people.
* History: Nanako is the child of a very new magus bloodline, one that only recently discovered their potential two generations prior to Nanako. Her family was ecstatic at this discovery, and immediately began pushing their children to succeed in magecraft. Nanako is no different in this regard. In spite of her low capability as a magus, Nanako is the best magi that the Mihama bloodline has produced so far. They managed to scrape together the resources to fund her relocation to Fusang, but on her arrival she was immediately struck by the fact that much of the population had more capabilities then herself when it came to magecraft. Additionally, when she attempted to summon a Servant, she was simply unable to. For quite some time, she was rather depressed over the fact she was both unable to summon a Servant(unlike the majority of Fusang's population) and was inferior to most magi on the island. However, Nanako has recovered more recently, and has been considering trying to summon a Servant once again.
* Other: Nanako is a native Japanese speaker. While she can get by, her English and Mandarin are not as good.

[User]
Mihama Nanako

There was no sign of the attacker, at least for the moment. Unfortunately, this was an excellent location to launch an ambush from. The half-completely building offered an excellent piece of cover, and moments later that was proven.

It wasn't just a single crossbow bolt. That would have been too simple. From different windows, almost as if the shooter was in multiple places at once(or perhaps moving quickly enough to fire from different windows?) shadowy projectiles began to rain down towards Meltryllis. Even now, Nanako couldn't help but feel concerned, and frightened. Even in a city of Servants, she had never anticipated being in an actual combat zone.

Even in her currently exhausted frame of mind, Nanako both understood how dangerous the situation had become and was aware that Meltryllis likely didn't want to so much as see her at the first chance she had. And so, after the initial few crossbow bolts, the girl was quick to duck behind a piece of construction equipment close to her Servant, some sort of machine she didn't recognize. She wasn't exactly in the situation or the state of mind to try and work out what it was. Leaning against it, even now, Nanako couldn't help but peek slightly around the corner to see just what was happening.

But this wasn't the end of it.

A set of thunderous footfalls announced the arrival of another opponent! This one as a hulking, muscular figure, clad in what looked like some sort of roman armor and wielding some sort of sword. It was difficult to discern features beyond that, as his body was cloaked in darkness, but Nanako thought she could see a slavering tongue hanging from the charging figure's mouth as he was upon her in a flash, raising his sword!

In that instant, Nanako's tired mind snapped to attention. Survival instincts flared to activity, just as her mana flowed through her limbs. With the assault on Meltryllis showing no sign of relenting, she had to... she had to do something! That sword, it would... if she didn't she could... she could...!

Nanako slammed one hand to the ground, magical energy blazing through her open circuits. She wasn't the strongest magus, but she could do enough for this!

"Wind! Listen to me and unleash your wrath!"

It was a simple, single-action spell, all she could do with the time she was given. A wild, twisting line of green light rocketed through the earth until it arrived beneath the piece of machinery that Nanako had hidden behind, and with a sudden burst of air it was lifted off the ground and hurtled through the air, slamming right into the monstrous shadow figure and sending his attack off-course! Desperately, Nanako scrambled away as the figure stumbled back!

---

Saber - Benienma

Benienma nodded, a grave expression on her small, soft-featured face.

"I think it must be an out of control Servant dechi," she said. It was the only explanation that made sense. Everything was so sudden, so it couldn't have been a pre-meditated act by the summoner. At the very least, that wasn't likely. Which meant that it was most likely the Servant acting on their own, and abducting their master to boot. Additionally, the most likely class for such behavior was Berserker. It wasn't a guarantee, of course, but it was what the small Saber now suspected.

"We'll know the moment we can get a testimony dechi," she added, "I sent one of my-"

As if on cue, a sparrow fluttered in through a nearby window. When Benienma raised her hand, it landed neatly on her small finger, chirping rapidly.

"... Perfect!" declared the small redhead, "The victim has just awakened dechi! We'll be able to get her testimony dechi."

@PKMNB0Y

[Assistant]
Kishinami Hakuno

"...Okay. Let's get the visit over with, and we can let her rest," Hakuno nodded to the small Servant. Having to relive being attacked by a Servant would not be a pleasant experience, Hakuno figured, but it had to be done. She spent most of the journey silently contemplating how best to approach the poor girl. No doubt the victim would be more reassured by a mature, possibly grizzled type of detective, and not a walking piece of cardboard and her frankly adorable sidekick?

Soon enough, they had reached the hospital that Mary had been taken to. Putting on her best 'official' face, Hakuno entered and spoke with a receptionist, confirming her identity and reason for visiting. In short order, she was taken to the room Mary was currently residing in. After an inhale to try and calm her nerves, she knocked on the door and slid it open, entering.

"...Saikawa Mary," Hakuno tried to keep the nervous quiver out of her voice as she addressed the injured girl, roughly around her own age, "I'm sorry to bother you. I'm Kishinami Hakuno of the Counter-Crime Force," she indicated the small Servant at her side, "And this is my partner, Saber."

Hakuno approached the bed, glancing at Mary's injury. Obviously, it had been treated already, and looked nowhere near as bad as it probably did a shor time ago. Still, to be attacked like that in Fusang...
"If you're able, I'd like to hear about what happened at the time of the incident," Hakuno spoke again, "with... as much detail as you can manage. If we know who we're looking for, we'll catch the culprit in no time."

[User]
Jason Liu
Between Hijikata's own threats and the possibility in being wrapped up in even more trouble, Jason could only take a deep breath as he processed the other Master's words. Certainly, letting the Berserker run rampant meant that he, personally, wouldn't be harmed...

But letting things proceed as they were would mean that he also wouldn't be dragged off by the police and... Well, all things considered, being thrown into a detention hall for his break wasn't much better than being on the run instead.

"...Alright, let's just try this, then! By my Command Seal, I order you: stand down!"

Brandishing the marks on the back of his hand, Jason watched and waited.

And waited.

And nothing had changed. The Berserker barely shrugged—no, barely even made note of what he had done, which caused Jason to furrow his brows in worry.

"Stand down, I said!"

Despite using a second Command Seal, though, those present would find out that, other than a marginally more irritated Berserker standing at the ready, nothing had actually changed.

"I... What? But—" Jason began to say, flustered as he looked at the back of his hand for a moment before hearing the sound of another gunshot ring out. This one, however, was aimed at Altera's head.

"If that's your decision, then that's how it'll be," he said, charging forward at the enemy Saber before leaping into the air, katana drawn and readied for a slash at her head.

Daze

Alter Ego — Meltryllis
When the hail of arrows arrived, the purple-haired Servant wasted no time in beginning to evade. Spinning around gracefully about the floor, Meltryllis watched as the arrows whizzed by her body and lodged themselves into the ground or the walls opposite their origin. From a distance, it could be seen as simply toying with her opponent.

But this was simply how she fought.

As the barrage of projectiles continued, Meltryllis pressed ahead, only barely noting that her Master was caught up in her own battle off to the side. It took but a moment for her to break off from pursuing the Archer hiding in the shadows and instead turn most of her focus towards the large, hulking shadow that Nanako had just thrown off course.

"I guess that staying close may have been asking a bit too much of you," Meltryllis sighed as she swung her body around, slamming into the enemy with one of her legs and launching it towards the other side of the room. "That Archer's gone missing again, since I had to spend time getting that... Thing off of you, so stay on your guard."

It was, admittedly, quite irritating to let the more mobile target escape, but if her Master died here, then it wouldn't matter if she caught her quarry. Even she knew this much.

---

---

Fusang Hospital
The hospital room that Hakuno walked into was all but silent, and despite the relative hustle and bustle of people outside the room, it seemed that there had been no visitors for Mary up until then. The young woman, now dressed in a hospital gown as she quietly turned towards the door, simply nodded in response to the girl's request. It seemed that, despite everything that had happened that morning, she was in a well enough state to speak.

"A-ah... Alright..." she began, nodding her head as she watched the Master-Servant pair walk inside and take their seats. "It, um... It's not that long a story, really... I, um... There was someone that I knew who had been having a bad streak of luck recently, and, um... We hadn't talked in a while, so I suggested we hang out for a little bit. One thing led to another, and, um... Well, we decided to try and summon a Servant. I can't really remember much after that, though... All I remember was a lot of shouting, a few gunshots, and the next thing I knew, I was lying in a pool of my own blood..."

Mary shook her head, almost as if attempting to wave off what had just been said. Her right hand subtly glossed over the dressing that had been put over the wound, with the bullets having passed through her cleanly instead of lodging themselves with. The wounds were still very much present, and despite having been sewn up, the phantom pains that came from them still lingered around.

"I, um... If there's anything specific you want to know, though, I'll do my best to try and remember..."

[Assistant]
Nanako opened her mouth. For a moment, she wanted to say she'd taken cover because of the arrow barrage. Because it was still close, and that if she took cover it wouldn't force Meltryllis to have to consider her when she dodged too. But then she shut her mouth just as quickly. All she would do if she spoke would have been to upset Meltryllis. Nothing she could say would do any good. So she took the admonishment.

... If she was being honest, the sight of Meltryllis's dance through the arrows had been so beautiful it made her heart hurt even more. Her Servant was graceful and lovely, and yet she had ruined everything about the friendly relationship they could have built. The relationship she had envisioned when she thought about summoning a Servant...

Weakly, Nanako shook her head. Now wasn't the time, it couldn't be...!

The hulking figure with the Roman sword slowly rose, having cratered the wall with its impact. It did not move as a natural creature, its upper body bent backwards before reaching a more normal posture with an ugly snapping sound. Had Meltryllis's kick broken something inside its body? Had the snapping sound been it self-repairing?

"... Oppressssooooorrrr..." it groaned, stepping forward, maw hanging open to reveal that hanging tongue once more, drool dribbling to the ground.

"Wh... what is that...?" Nanako found herself saying, as the shadowy figure raised its sword once more, preparing to charge. But that wasn't all.

With more time to take stock of the situation, and able to see past the damaged wall, Nanako realized with horror why there were no workers around. All she saw was a single arm laying limply, blood pooling around it... blood on the more distant walls, blood... there was so much blood beyond the damaged wall. They were dead... the workers here were dead...!

A hail of arrows suddenly rained down from the upper windows! This time, it looked as if they were aimed to try and drive both Nanako and Meltryllis towards the hulking shadow beast!