Masa con Papas: Proxy's Memory

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Manzana: You’re allowed in.

The door opens the rest of the way, the proxy revealing her full form.

Limbs segmented like armor, as pristine white as a mannequin out of a fashion display. There was a distinctly unfinished appearance to the whole thing, Her body held together by a pitch black substance.

There’s a certain eldritch beauty to it, kind of personal goals if you're honest with yourself.

Manzana: Here to pick up the sword?

???: Is it ready to go?

Manzana: Just about, came at a good time.

Opera: Hate to interrupt but… who are you?

???: A old friend.

The proxy seems to tilt its head at Opera’s cloak, the bat peeking its head out in response.

Paige utters a little chitter of a noise.

Opera: Really…

Manzana:  Mhmm..

Opera: Is that possible? To be able to just… be that far away from your source?

Fenton: Is for some types of em. Proxies that trigger on danger can sense it coming way ahead, and can wander off way more than typical.

Fenton: Could also just be one who’s grown past the definition of proxy.

Fenton: Surprised you didn’t know that actually.

Opera: I knew they could go out further but… does that mean there’s trouble?

???: Going to be. Hate to ask for you to rush on things but..

Manzana: I got someone kinda like you so, I don’t mind.

Manzana: Promised I was going to tinker with this piece, wouldn’t get much sleep anyway.

You offer the weapon to the proxy, it nods before giving it a proper look through.
???: You’re the real deal. Had to be ready one way or another.

Manzana: If it wasn’t?

???: I’d have to improvise something. This’ll be enough for now though.

???: Going to pass it along to that knight from yesterday, she’ll be willing to handle delivery there.

Manzana: We just met her, if you lose it-

???: Every knight has their routes as a courier. If she’s worth her salt, she’ll do it.

???: I’d go the rest of the way but I have a place to be first.

???: And I need to save energy for something else.

Opera: You know what’s coming?

???: Not entirely, no.

???: Did overhear your plan though. Mutiny.

Opera: You want in?

???: Horse has it coming, any other day I would but…

???: I have to make sure he’s safe right now..

???: Something bad is going to happen, there’s no way to stop that.

???: But I can keep it from being something that can’t be undone. Let’s leave it at that.

Fenton: Really about what I expected, yeah.

The proxy begins to fizzle out of existence as a rift appears behind it.

???: Stay safe for now, you’ll see us again soon enough.

Manzana: Don’t be a stranger, if anything happens-

????: I’ll be back, some form or another.

It walks through the rift and vanishes, only a light crackle as it leaves.

Fenton: Feel like I missed out on a lot.

Opera: Yeah, same.

Opera: We’re gonna fucking die dude.

Fenton: Probably. Nice.

Geezer: Nah, sounds a bit shit.

The construct steps through the doorway.

Geezer: Heard the whole thing but saw someone was waiting in line so. Let them go ahead of me for good measure.

Geezer: You wanna mutiny the dog?

Opera: Mmhmm.

Geezer: You got a plan to do it cleanly?

Opera: I was just going to jump them to be honest.

Opera: Not exactly someone you can just fight.

Geezer: I can.

Geezer: Grandma Erica’s taught me how to smoke fiend.

Fenton: Erica?

Fenton: Also she’s your grandma? Was she like, from the past or-

Geezer: She was pretty time displaced. Weird as hell coming back home after that. 

Fenton: Yeah, no kidding.

Manzana: You’re really going to go through with the mutiny plan then.

Geezer: Maybe. We’re going to do this clean.

Geezer: Gonna challenge them to a duel, want Opera as my second.

Geezer: Erica made sure I knew how to cook all of god’s creatures in a fight, fiend’s especially included.

Geezer: Figured Ali would outlive her out of spite, wanted to make sure someone can check her one day.

Manzana: I’ve seen you pick fights with her, she almost killed you on the spot.

Geezer: Today’s different, and Bucket’s a legit knight.

Geezer: If they’re worth their salt, they’ll take it.

Opera: We got numbers, why do we gotta do this by the book?

Geezer: Because there’s no reason to make it a group fight and risk everyone like that.

Geezer: Just me. I can beat them easy.

Opera: With what?

Geezer: Body’s mechanical. I know what they can do and a lot just bounces off of me.

Geezer: A mechanical body can be tuned up before the big event.

Geezer: All of you? If they bust your knee, you’re off the job immediately.

Geezer: I need Opera as my second because I want someone who can finish the fight if I gotta tag out.

Geezer: Do most of the work, if I win? We’re good.

Geezer: If I wear them down enough, Opera’s got more than enough to wrap things up. Minimize injury.

Geezer: The only one Bucket has around who’d second for them is Bern. Something about that kid is intense, but she’s small potatoes and Bucket wouldn’t risk their own squire getting shot. Unlikely to tag out.

Opera: That’s… not a bad plan. You really sure you can do this?

Geezer: Absolutely. It’s the job I’ve trained my whole life for dude.

Geezer: Erica’s a lot of things, never was big on how she was selective as all hell with who she’d train to be honest.

Geezer: Both me and Charon went through the same shit together, dude’s just as capable of running the family.

Geezer: But there’s one point she made clear, because I had to ask.

Geezer: She knew there’d be stronger folks who could easily swoop in for the house. She doesn’t want it being something that Ali carried on like that, or her own kid if they turned out anything like her in the long run. 

Geezer: Wasn’t going to have kids killing their own parents like that, worst case scenario. That’s why she picked me.

Manzana: You’re not like, going to-

Geezer: I’m not killing Bucket. Not today anyway.

Geezer: My point is I’m ready to go. I can risk getting hurt, I can bounce back easiest.

Geezer: Cause at the end of the day I just need one person who can lead to pull through.

Opera: And that’s me?

Geezer: Ideally, if nobody’s got any objections.

Fenton: Mercury?

Geezer: Love her to bits, but…

Opera: Mercury probably wouldn’t feel right about the whole mutiny situation. Yeah.

Manzana: Really? She seems like she’d be down. She seemed so cool…

Opera: She is but-

Geezer: If her and Buck got history like that..

Geezer: She’ll take our side overall, but she’s going to feel weird about the whole thing.

Fenton: I mean… I can if it comes down to it. Manzana can cover now-

Manzana: I can’t promise I can commit to being your dedicated tech crew.

Manzana: I’m just helping where I can. Still got work today after this.

Fenton: You can’t take time off?

Manzana: I gotta request that, no. Needle is probably pushing it too by being here..

Fenton: Ah.

Manzana: I’ll do what I can, stacked with vacation days. But til then you have a job to do too.

Fenton: Yeah..

Geezer: If it comes down to it, you’re a good secondary pick. Everyone here is really.

Geezer; But…

Fenton: No I get it, I agree.

Fenton: If things come down to it though-

Geezer: We’ll make it work out.

Fenton: Yeah.

Geezer: Then it’s settled?

Opera: Yeah. 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Three Cards in Winter
3 Part Intermission....
Perspective: Styx
CW: None

 Roundabout: Knock, Knock! You mind company?

Styx: Not at all, but you’re a little pressed for time at the moment.

Styx: Seasonal celebrations later today and all that to consider.

Roundabout: Got time, and you know you’re invited there too.

Styx: I suppose, I’ll drop in during a lull if you need a break.

Roundabout: Not up for it?

Styx: Having a moment.

Roundabout: Moody?

Styx: A little, I’ll get over it soon…

Styx: That said…

The snake smirks.

Styx: You’ve dressed up for the occasion. Any reason in particular?

Roundabout: Tis the time, you like it?

Styx: Absolutely lovely as always…

Roundabout: Tried to look for something that might be up to your tastes too, case you want to take the wheel.

Styx: Yes well..

Styx: I mean I’ll settle for anything personally. You don’t have to go that far for me.

Roundabout: Aye, but I know you’ve got your tastes too. Doing what I can to accommodate my wardrobe for you and well… I’ve noticed a few trends.

Styx: Ah…

Roundabout: If it’s not your thing I have something else I can-

Styx: It’s nothing like that by any means. Just…

Styx: The more I spend time as part of this life, the more… certain thoughts become difficult. Intrusive. Drowning even.

Roundabout: I know.

Styx: You understand though and…

Styx: It always seems so natural for you. Envy that really, but that’s natural for a schizo-existentialist nightmare like myself I suppose.

Styx: Miracle I’ve gotten this far at all.

Roundabout: Stop.

Styx: Sorry..

Roundabout: You’d never say that about someone else.

Styx: You don’t know that.

Roundabout: Haven’t seen it so far.

Styx: Could be waiting for the right occasion.

Roundabout: You know that’s not true.

Styx: Plenty of time to find out.

Roundabout lets out a sigh, offering her arms out to you.

Styx: That’s not fair…

Roundabout: Promised me you wouldn’t be as hard on yourself, right?

Styx: Mm….

Roundabout: Come here..

You make your way over, coiling your tail around her waist.

She seems to try and return it, coiling her own around yours.

Roundabout: Whatever you want to do, I’ll make time for you. We’ve got a good thing going, and I plan to keep you with me so long as you wish the same.

Styx: Be careful what you say, I may never leave.

Roundabout: Might be what I want, really.

Styx: Course…

Styx: You take the whole demon in your head thing quite well, I’ll never understand.

Roundabout: We made a deal to work together, and well…

Roundabout: I need you, and you need me.

Roundabout: And maybe we have a very good thing going with that.

Styx: And as for taking point? I don’t mind by any means but… you just let me.

Styx: Past clients understand its weight as a currency enough to not give it so easily.

Roundabout: I appreciate the break time.

Styx: I could get injured, it’s a lot of faith.

Roundabout: You enjoy your time too much not to make efforts to preserve yourself.

Roundabout: I’ve seen your suitors.

Styx: I don’t know what you’re talking about.

Roundabout: Keep waking up to sweets and invitations in my inbox. You have to introduce me sometime.

Styx: I’m a man of theatrics, nothing else.

Roundabout: Maybe you could perform for me sometime, see what’s won you so many hearts.

Styx: Are you looking to be swoon by my unholy talents?

Roundabout: Already am, I just don’t want you holding out.

Styx: Implying I don’t save my best for you?

Roundabout: Have to know for sure, need to know if I’m being threatened.

Styx: As if anyone could.

Roundabout: I mean I’d win, I understand that.

Roundabout: You’d miss me too much to move elsewhere.

Styx: Assume a lot.

Roundabout: Is it wrong?

Styx: No..

Styx: You really do want me with you at the event?

Roundabout: Want you with me everywhere, god willing to give us that.

Styx: I consider his will a suggestion, personally.

Roundabout: What if he asks firmly?

Styx: I’d pull up my sleeves in an instant.

Roundabout: And if he’s too strong?

Styx: Then you’d be more than capable of protecting us.

Roundabout: What makes you think that?

Styx: I’ve got a good gauge of things, part of the job.

Roundabout: Is that something you have? A secret talent?

Styx: It’s common, an entity like myself tends to create mental categories for potential talent scout.

Roundabout: Can I hear mine?

Styx: Maybe.

Roundabout: Please?

Styx: I’d rather not do work during a holiday…

Roundabout: That’s fine, I just don’t want you spending it alone really.

Roundabout: Can’t stop you if you really want to but..

Styx: No, you’ve called things correctly.

Roundabout: Do you want to stay here or go out with me for a bit? I can make time.

Styx:  I’d like a little bit more of this but..

Styx: I think I really will take your offer.

Styx: Can’t promise I’ll behave the whole time. Parties and I-

Roundabout: You’re allowed, I want in too.

Styx: Are you certain? Could pick fights, flirt with bounty hunters, maybe even start a few fires.

 Roundabout: Yeah, fun stuff.

Styx: Hmm..

Roundabout: That a problem?

Styx: Not at all just..

Styx: There's something special about you.

Styx: Don't know what it is but..

Roundabout: I know.

Roundabout: Wordy way to make a confession.

Styx: I haven't said anything.

Roundabout: Not directly no.

Roundabout: But your face, the quiver...

Roundabout: You don't need to.

Styx: Mm..

Roundabout: I want to hear it directly one day but..

Roundabout: I'll let you figure that out I think.

Styx: Thank you..

Styx: You really do get me.

Roundabout: Someone has to. You're really not as bad as you'd like to make yourself.

Roundabout: Must have you tired some days.

Styx: Mm...

She offers you a hand.

Roundabout: Let's take a break, both of us.

Roundabout: Another year to look forward to.

Styx: Looking to renegotiate?

Roundabout: It's coming up, got offers you'd never refuse.

Styx: Then I look forward.

Roundabout: To the future?

Styx: To us...

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

CW: Children in peril, discussion of death and war

---

There’s been a long, uneasy quiet.

The child sits next to the window, looking out with unfocused eyes uninterrupted.

It’s time to break the silence.

Styx: Are you alright?

The look he gives you is one of a cornered animal about to bite.

His weary presence canceled out instantly by the intensity of his gaze.

You take a risk by stepping just a bit closer.

Styx: You’re safe for now-

Charon: Why’d you pull me out of there?

Charon: Why couldn’t you bring anyone else?

Styx: I needed to ensure your survival, and I cannot drag people in here without their consent.

Charon: You didn’t ask me-

Styx: Your contract allows me to take action should your demise be imminent.

Styx: You punched far above your weight class, that has given me enough to intervene.

Styx: As for the others..

Styx: Geezer’s contract is far too loose, I cannot do the same.

Styx: And he lacks the gift of being able to create such rifts himself, he played it pretty safe with his negotiations, smart kid. Low investments are ideal with entities such as myself-

Charon: Pull him out.

Styx: He refuses, he’s out there doing what must be done.

Charon: He’ll die.

Styx: A lot of people will die tonight, rest assured I am giving him what is within my capacity-

Charon: That’s not enough!

Charon: You were able to take me here, right?

Charon: Can we just.. Make a deal to get out of here?

Charon: At least the people who don’t want to fight?

Charon: Please…

Styx: It’s not within my power, and even if it was I doubt many would take the offer.

Charon: What do you mean..?

Styx: The library was many things. A safe house, a base of operations, knowledge, counteraction against the Church.

Styx: A home of good people who want freedom.

Styx: Anyone who was reluctant to fight before certainly won’t be after this.

Styx: I’ve seen it happen before. The moment a community’s base of operations reaches a point where it’s self-sustaining despite the ruling class, it’s burned to the ground and anyone within is part of the public execution.

Styx: Ideally you would run such revolution as tight and widespread across the community as-

The child cuts you off with growls and hisses.

It's enough to make your ears pull back in distress. His expression softens up just for a moment at that.

Styx: Sorry..

Charon: Didn't mean to-

Styx: You're fine.

Styx: Truth be told, I’ve been through this myself time and time again.

Styx: Despite centuries passing, we’re still repeating this to this day.

Charon: Did you lose anyone…?

Styx: Plenty. It’s the cruel nature of the oppressor to trade lives against those who only wish to live.

Styx: To show anything less than your all in the face of such, is allowing them to make example of you.

Styx: I do not have personal stakes admittedly but..

Styx: On the principle of the thing..

Styx: I will gladly hand you the first Molotov.

Charon: You hate the church..

Styx: I don't hate, I despise it.

Styx: Should consider themselves lucky I can't be out there with you right now.

The child seems to calm down at that.

Charon: If it doesn’t work out…?

Styx: I cannot help any of you escape this world. At this point in time anyone who was too loud during the past few scrambles is a fugitive. I would assume some of you will be on the bounty board by the end of the day if not today.

Styx: The people there have taught you well, and you’ve certainly picked a sword with the teeth to get you through.

Charon: This thing?

Styx: Aye.

Charon: Opera doesn’t like it..

Styx: Then the oppressor wields one as well.

Charon: This thing blew off half a guy’s torso…

Styx: and you’ll simply do better as time goes on.

Styx: The weakness of those who’ve lived in heaven, is they have remained unchallenged for so long.

Styx: The moment someone is able to match them pound per pound, you’ve more than clipped their wings.

Styx: That Proxy of yours needs a fresh name, Extreme Retention is a powerful prompt of its own. It does more than form a foundation.

Styx: But ultimately, it’s a mouthful.Hard to make calls in a fight if there’s so many syllables.

Charon: Right…

Styx: One, two tops. Keep it strong and short.

Styx: When you cut off the excess, life becomes easier to unravel as a whole.

Charon:  Mm..

Styx: That all you have to say?

Charon: It’s hard to keep up with you sometimes..

Styx: I’ll catch you up to speed. A good wit breaks the ego, another tool of the trade.

Charon: And you’ll really stick around the whole time?

Styx: Nothing but a benefit right now.

Charon: If… this works out.

Charon: I got one other wish I want. Once we get back.

Styx: Toss it to me.

Charon: There’s someone I want you to help me bring back home.

Charon: Grandma’s worried about them every day so-

Styx: By the end of all this, you’ll have the strength to do it yourself.

Charon: I…

Charon: We need to go back still.

Charon: You have to take me-

Styx: I’m establishing contact as we speak. There’s someone aware of my presence and they’ve been kind enough to give us a place to land safely.


Styx: When you’re ready-

Charon: Right now.

The child gets up from the ground and reaches for the weapon next to him.

Charon: Make good on that Molotov.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You walk into the room, a glass mirror separating yourself and the world outside your little pocket of a castle.

The silhouette of your rabbit comrade stands with a certain dignity and sense of impending finality.

He managed to get the drop on you somehow.

 Gallows: Finally showed up, been waiting for you.

Styx: You’re certainly in a good mood today..

Gallows: Can’t be helped..

Gallows: We’re near the end of things.

Styx: Aye..

Styx: Your holiday plan managed to commit quite a bit of sway there.

Styx: Assaulting the royal family during the winter holiday, rallying the burning of storage houses for militia. Certainly enough of a dent that they will hardly recover anytime soon.

Gallows: If you know the opposition’s taking a break day, you take full advantage.

Gallows: Common courtesy not to start shit before the new year but..

Styx: I understand, don’t need to explain yourself.

Gallows: Mm, you get it.

Styx: You've managed so much in so little. Makes me nervous thinking about it.

Gallows: It's a good time to celebrate but... doesn't seem like you're in the mood for it.

Styx: Hard to, not like we've won just yet after all.

Gallows: What happens next will be everything. This was always the plan, we've just a little more left.

Styx: I know.

Styx: Are you really so calm?

Gallows: Maybe.

Gallows: If I succeed, I’ve got the fate of many in my hand.

Gallows: If I fail, I can never show my face again.

Gallows: One is a chance to fix many wrongs..

Gallows: And the other is obscurity and a grave in the sewers.

Styx: You've managed to prevent messengers from spreading word, everything's gone smoother than anticipated.

Gallows: They’ll find out what I did soon enough.

Gallows: The gauntlet, the application, the game has always been fixed.

Gallows: And I think when it comes down to it, my mistake has always been playing by its rules.

Gallows: You get so far, what do you do after?

Styx: To earn a “rightful” throne is asking to be complicit in the end.

Styx: With that said, it did manage to net you the influence to make it happen just to be on the inside long enough.

Gallows: Mm.. we're about to witness a historical coup.

Gallows: We'll rise to the peak, take the crown, and when we have it all.. we'll refuse it.

Gallows: Anything less is doomed to fail.

Styx: And what of vindication?

Styx: A failed rebellion has value, for if it has the people truly in mind it’ll make noise. You have shown the holes, you’ve made it very clear that there’s options many didn’t know existed.

Styx: People will try again, this time braver than ever.

Styx: I've seen the state you're in, you're putting too much on yourself right now.

Gallows: Has to be done now, there's no time.

Styx: You're ill, and still recovering from your injuries.

Styx: If you don't succeed tomorrow, you may never do so.

Gallows: I know you only speak of such out of concern but…

Styx: I am aware of what's at stake. I just...

Styx: I don’t want to lose you again..

Gallows: ...Again?

Gallows: Why are you phrasing it like that? We've only known each other a few months, have we not?

Styx: Maybe but...

Gallows: Is there something you haven't told me?

Styx: Every once in awhile I am met with a client, one of distinguished soul and courage.

Styx: The same bold aura, a heroic charisma taken to the point of self destructiveness.

Gallows: I'm not that special really..

Gallows:... Does that mean..?

Styx: Many times you have called on me, and each time you're different from the last.

Styx: We shake hands, we grow together, and eventually you reach your end and I am destined to outlive you.

Styx: It's a blessing and a curse.

Styx: You show again in another time and place, and though you do not recognize me, it doesn't take me long to find out it's you.

Gallows: It's a bold claim...

Styx: One I cannot easily prove, but one I truly feel inside.

Styx: I want to get the most I can each time. Because when you die, It may be a eternity til I see you again.

Styx: And to be frank.. I worry each will be your last.

Gallows: And how does it usually end? Is this where road stops?

Styx: Always difficult to say.

Styx: Sometimes I've had you for decades, other times it's not so lucky.

Styx: If you truly feel you need to make this call, I will keep my end of the bargain.

Styx:: Nothing but my best work.

Styx: But.. I worry.

Gallows: I aim to survive.

Styx: That isn’t guaranteed.

Gallows: Nothing is.

Styx: And what if the people hate you?

Styx: What if the end result is a world that cares not for your labors?

Styx: Your health will not keep up forever either. Much work will be left regardless.

Gallows: When the monarch falls, the church will falter.

Gallows: When I strike it down, the people have a choice to make.

Gallows: I can’t decide it for them, but I give it to them none the less because it’s one I always wanted.

Gallows: All of us did growing up.

Gallows: And if they refuse to take it, that's at least their choice but..

Gallows: I will leave them with more than what I had.

Gallows: And truly, I believe in them. Even if I fall, they are more than capable of continuing to fix things on their own.

Styx: A True King of the Streets. The whole world is just as much yours as anyone else's.

Gallows: Fancy way to put it.

Styx: Mm...

Gallows:... Is that all you have to say?

Styx: My prose has its limits.

Gallows: And?

You go quiet.

Gallows: ... You really are scared for me if you aren't having the last word in this.

Styx: Of course I am.

Gallows: …You don’t think you’ll be able to protect me this time, do you.

Styx: Like you said, nothing is guaranteed. I will do my best

Styx: But…

Styx: In this life and any, I will have your back.

Styx: And I know one day we’ll meet again in another shape and form.

Styx: I just want a little longer before you forget me again…

Gallows:... I'm sorry.

Styx: It's not your fault, this was always the plan. It's as you said.

Styx: I… appreciate you, even if we haven’t had the most time together.

Styx: A promise is just words but..

Styx: Survive, that's all I ask. At least long enough that no matter what happens, I'll have enough times with you to hold onto til the next cycle.

Gallows: Course. You know I’m lucky like that.

Styx: You've clung through this by a thread, I'd hardly call it that.

Gallows: A thread is like a chain when it's you keeping it together.

Gallows: You've been nothing but great this entire time. And...

Gallows:... You’ll stick around after this? Our deal ends soon one way or another.

Styx: You want to renew contracts?

Gallows: It’s been good so far, why change things?

Gallows: Much work to be done even if all things go well.

Styx: Of course.

Styx: I'll have to think of the terms, something for the next few years at least.

Gallows: Don't pull anything in there, I'll have a lawyer next time we negotiate.

Styx: That's.... more than fair.

Styx: Until that point well..

Gallows: I want your best work. You're just as much key as everyone else, if not moreso..

Styx: Nothing less..

Styx: I...

Gallows: Mm...?

Styx: ....Thank you.

Gallows: You'll have time to say what you need to.

Gallows: But I think I already know.

Styx: Something to save til after, you're not one to die with regrets.

Styx: And if you don't hear it, I know you'll regret.

Gallows: Really leaning toward superstition?

Styx: It's all I have for now, and perhaps it's all I need.

Styx: But til then... just one more moment to share, you and I.

Styx: Pick a drink and a vinyl, think we both need this right now.

Styx: A final respite for now, a promise toward celebrations later.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

Family
[Turning Point]
CW: Violence
Perspective: Opera

 

Your group shuffles out of the work room, anticipation in your body keeping you more than awake.

Now's the time.

Bucket: Good morning-

Geezer: We gotta talk.

Bucket:.. I figured as much.

Bucket: Go ahead.

Geezer: Gonna be honest, nobody’s liking how this ship is run.

Geezer: Doesn’t feel right letting you make the calls when everyone else has more personal stake at hand.

Bucket: That’s why I’ve been selected as the lead for this, having some distance. Whether I agree it’s the best route to take or not… I’m unsure.

Bucket: But under the current circumstances, I will not move.

Geezer: I’m not giving you the option.

Geezer: Opera?

Opera: Mutiny.

Bucket looks down at the cat and frowns.

Bucket: I don’t think you want this-

Opera: No, I really fucking do actually.

Bucket:... And you’re announcing this directly. I see…

Bucket: I don’t follow-

Geezer: I’m formally challenging you to a duel, keep it civil.

Bucket: Why should I accept this?

Geezer: Because if you don’t, it’s about to be ugly. Standard procedure, Opera is my second. You’re allowed to invite anyone as your own. Freestyle, the usual rules regarding duels out of dispute apply-

Bucket: I’m aware, I’ve looked into them while here considering how important they are to the culture of Plaza.

Bucket: But you’re ignoring my main point.

Bucket: What bargaining chips do you have?

Bucket: I can simply say no.

Geezer: Cause it’s going to get less than civil otherwise.

Bucket: A threat?

Geezer: A warning, for legal reasons.

Bucket: Mm..

Bucket: I’d rather not if I’m honest, but..

Bucket: I’ll stand my ground and entertain this. I pick Bern. Any location in mind?

Geezer: The beach is right outside. 

Bucket: Fair enough..

Bucket: This is acceptable.

They start toward the exit, grabbing their large sword resting close to the entrance.

The noise it makes gives everyone else in the room a certain ick immediately.

Manzana: You sure you really want to do this?

Geezer: Gotta. Don’t stand my ground now, it’s on me if things go wrong later.

Geezer: We gotta stick to out plan though. Can’t let it get out of hand.

Opera: Just checking in but.. You really got a plan to deal with them?

Geezer: Yeah.

Opera: I don’t want you hurt for nothing, if you want I can lead.

Geezer: Best this way. I got the information game on my side. You gotta play second so you can get a good read on the situation-

Bern steps out from the other room.

There’s a certain look of guilt on her face.

Bern: Right here you know.

Bern: Least you can do is let me head out before you start scheming.

Geezer: Ah..

Bern: Just wanna say ahead that like..

Bern: Whatever happens next..

Bern: I’m just doing a job.

Opera: You don’t gotta-

Bern: For your sake? Yeah I do.

Bern: I…

She lets out a strong sigh of frustration.

Bern: Just. Good luck, alright?

Bern: I’m not going to give less than my best. You shouldn’t either.

Opera: I… yeah. Okay.

Bern closes the door on her way out as she heads over to coordinate with Bucket.

Opera: That felt weird, right?

Opera: Like..

Fenton: Yeah no it really did.

Fenton: I’m down if you are but…

Geezer: Already committed to this, I’m not backing down.

Opera: Yeah, same.

Fenton: Sounded like a warning to me.

Manzana: It is.

Manzana: If we pull through with this, we’re going to have to fight my…

Manzana: Ali. There’s no getting around that.

Geezer: If you’re worried, I’m not going to let you get dragged in.

Manzana: You’re not going to-

Geezer: Not if we don’t have to. With someone like her? We get in and book it. If we gotta cut our losses and dump it all in the ocean, we’ll do it.

Manzana; I was worried you were going to fight her for a sec…

Geezer: If I gotta, I gotta. But don’t believe in trading lives like that if we can avoid it.

Geezer: Everyone lives.

Fenton: Yeah.. would like that this time.

Geezer: Got a few tips on where it’s being stored. Might not have to wait til the auction if we’re lucky.

Opera: You really found something?

Geezer: Yeah. Can’t be putting all our eggs in one basket, you know that.

Geezer: We’ll prep for every possibility.

Geezer starts toward the door. You give Paige a little pat on the head before following behind.

Opera: Ready to go?

Geezer: Yeah. Mind’s warmed up, don’t wanna waste that.

Fenton: I’m on first aid, try to keep it to a minimum.

Geezer: Plan to.

Fenton: Opera?

Opera: Won’t be the one needing it but… prep enough for all four.

Manzana: What about me?

Geezer: Save your energy, you’ll have your time.

Manzana: Mm..

Despite the foggy skies, the light feels intense in your eyes.

Your group heads straight toward the beach, the shape of your opposition in the distance growing more clear as you approach them.

Bucket: Had a bit of a huddle I imagine.

Geezer: Little bit of a pep talk’s never hurt anyone. You’ll live.

Bucket: Mm.

Bucket: You’ve taken good care of my mother in recent years I imagine..

Geezer: Least I could do for her. Know she misses you every day.

The dog’s face seems to struggle there.

You keep your hand in your cloak, watching the two intensely.

Bucket: You know I can’t return, not yet..

Geezer: You can make time. Gonna tell it to you straight though.

Geezer: You don’t drop by more, someone’s gonna drag you back.

Bucket: Who, you?

Geezer: Nah. Someone who cares even more. Someone you owe an apology.

Any cool the dog has maintained, any sense of divine dignity starts to show its cracks.

Their assistant slides into the conversation before it goes too far.

Bern: Look, love wrestling as much as anyone else but…

Bern: Let’s get this going, yeah?

Bucket: Mm… in positions?

Geezer: Aye.

Everyone clears the main battlefield, keeping enough distance to avoid getting caught up in the scrap.

You stay close enough just to make out the action.

Fenton: Bad weather for something like this, no?

Opera: You roll with the punches.

Fenton: You’re a marksman though, seems like a problem.

Manzana: It’s magic in nature, that’s the point.

Manzana: Bucket’s a illusionist, hard to get a clear read for anyone except for them.

Fenton: Hardly sounds fair…

Manzana: Yeah..

Opera: I’ll make it work.

The rabbit gives a gesture.

Geezer: Seconds, countdown!

Opera: Three!

Bern: Two!

Opera: One!

Bern: Go!

You witness Geezer walk up patiently through the thickening fog, it swallowing him more and more before-

You hear the sound of clashing metal, denting and folding as large sweeping swings of a blade tear the mist before…

The fog dissipates. The sword in a pathetic state flying off and crashing into the shifting shoreline..

The rabbit taking the dog to the ground and giving them the pummeling of a lifetime.

You look over and Manzana, eyes in genuine awe and fear.

Opera: What’s going on? That a trick or-

Manzana: No it’s…

Manzana: The illusion’s gone…

The dog continues to struggle and flail as Geezer continues to flail away, only managing to escape the cloud of sand and bruises by the skin of their teeth.

Snares and knots of silky wire only unbound though being torn apart by incredible amounts of effort and brute force,

As Bucket scrambles to their feet clumsily, Geezer continues to pace toward them. They shift their gaze over to Bern who seems to be having a hard time watching, before looking back at the rabbit.

There was a feral intensity you'd only seen back in that void. A reminder of a fiendish anger you always hope you never have to see again.

Bucket: She prepared you to kill me..?

Geezer:  Nah, I’m after bigger game.

Geezer: Get up.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 
Bucket claps their hands twice, Bern following suit immediately.

Geezer starts to walk back toward you, with a tired look on his face.

He gestures to walk toward him, you give him a puzzled look only for him to shake his head.

Opera: They’re tagging out? This fast? I mean you fucked them up but-

Geezer: They’re stalling to get some rest and figure out a new gameplan.

Opera: How’d you even manage? Could barely make out the scramble…

Geezer: Old school knights like them aren’t trained for ground game. Nearly every fight gets taken to the floor quickly but…

Opera: Yeah but like…It was so clean..
:
Geezer: Something to worry about later.

Geezer: Don’t know a thing about Bern, she’s got something up with her though.

Geezer: Like… if they’re willing to bring someone like that with them..

Opera: And tag out after a beating like that…

Geezer: Yeah, that’s the thing. If she was just some rookie, that’d be insanely cruel.

Opera: I mean…

Geezer: Family’s got a issue with being too comfortable passing off a lot as just “tough love”, not gonna deny that.

Geezer: This isn’t it dude.

Opera: I can scout.

Geezer: Figured you’d be good at that.

Opera: Need you to be able to pull that trick twice. You deserve the rest.

Geezer: Yeah..

Geezer: Part of me wants to keep in, stay warmed up but..

Geezer: If I get down’d here and now cause of lack of prep? That’s it.

Geezer: Which means you know you can’t let a pin happen before I’ve got enough info to work with.

Opera: Surprised you didn’t manage it earlier..

Geezer: Didn’t think they’d tap out that, fast honest.

Geezer: Buck’s a fiend too, strong one.

Geezer: Not the same kind as my grandma or Charon though. Bit of a rarity…

Opera: What do you mean?

Geezer: Every fiend’s got a breath tied to their specific category, yeah?

Opera: Mm…

Geezer: Got a set of fiend silk on me, has a lot of usage.

Geezer: Fact that they managed to muscle out is impressive but… that’s it. Managed to completely muscle out.

Opera:... Isn’t Charon a bug fiend?

Geezer: Yeah.

Opera: Erica too? And uh.. Arabis?

Geezer: Yeah. Webbing type.

Opera: Webbing types can get stuck but they absorb it into themselves, that’s how it works in this world too I’m sure?

Geezer: Yep.

Geezer: There’s something hell off.

Without knowledge of what Bucket’s fiend type, there’s now a massive danger to worry about.

A fiend is incredibly variable in nature, some can become a threat just by making the slightest bit of contact to your skin.

It’s clear Geezer has the toolkit to deal with them but..

For now you do what you have to. Scout, gain info, stall for Geezer to plan round 2 and..

Opera: Mm.. Okay.  Get the gist.

Geezer: There’s a 5 minute timer before being able to tag again, just a heads up.

Opera: 5 Minutes? Sounds long for a fight..

Geezer: Only for freestyle dueling. New ruling, recent high profile match has people worried about stall tactics.Big timer in theory puts people off of trying to tag stall til the max timer on spectated events. Long matches lead to more risk of injury.

Opera:.. This region’s kinda weird dude. There’s a story right?

Geezer: I’ll tell you some other time.

He gestures over toward the other team, Bucket having their own conversation with Bern, too quiet for you or Paige to make out from the distance.

Geezer: You got this, yeah?

Opera: Mm…

Geezer gives you a pat on the shoulder.

Geezer: You’re up then.

Paige’s head perks up from your cloak.

Opera: You ready to go?

The proxy squeaks in confirmation.

Of course we’re ready, always will be.

Geezer walks off and takes a spot with Zana and Fenton spectating, the three of them seem to start bantering amongst themselves as well.

You Approach the other team, Bucket pointing you out to Bern before backing off.

The mysterious squire walks up to you. There’s a new intensity to the fight, one that exudes directly from her.

Bern: Feels like each of you got a proxy on you. Guessing the world did something to you and your friends.

Opera: Always have, just another adventure for the two of us.

Bern: Mm..

Bern: Read up on the case as much as I could.

Bern: Target’s got a history.

Bern: One I can relate to.

She looks over at Paige. There’s an immediate nervous response, one that you can feel bleeding over.

Bern: You know something.

Bern: I’m a bit of a thread in this too…

You try comforting Paige with a pat on the head.

Opera: What’s up?

I don’t want to do this…

Opera: Really? I mean I can handle it on my own if you’re not up for it-

No. I don’t want you to get hurt.

I haven’t felt scared like this since we were kids.

Opera: I mean we dealt with a lot of scary stuff..

Opera: Always pulled through though.

I know…

Opera: Tell me what’s up?

Paige: She’s a husk.

Bern: Don’t like being called that…
Bern: But… yeah.

Bern: Guess I’d fit the bill.

Bern:.. Wasn’t expecting to get that response from another proxy to be honest….

Bern: Don’t hold back.

Bern looks over toward Bucket as the countdown starts.

Bern: It’s time.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

As soon as the match starts, what come next feels natural.

Shadows pour from underneath Bern and fill the arena. In all but voice she becomes unrecognizable as the square you picked a fight with you.

Kite around, hold your fire until you have a clear gauge of what she can do. Your plan is set.

Each shade that pours out leaves less and less room to fight, freely, each stretch of line another wall.

Her form warps, reminiscent of the horrors you’ve encountered since youth, until her body is just another shadow against the wall, revealing her true self.

A proxy stands before you, one with a streamlined frame different from those you encountered in your home world.

You take aim the moment you got the footing for it.

Opera: Paige?

Paige: Do it.

You take a shot, a burst of energy scatters across like a shotgun blast, the spread of bits making it impossible for Bern to dodge cleanly.

A distinct hiss can be heard.

Before she sinks into the nearest shadow.

There’s audible rumbling traveling across like a rat in your walls.

Opera: Cover me!

Paige envelops around in a swirl of movement to keep your movements ambiguous.

You can hear the thumping coming from two directions.

All you can do is try to anticipate correctly right now.

Paige: Now.

You’re able to successfully matador the proxy with a flourishing twirl, about to take fire only for Bern’s physical form to lunge at you.

Paige leaps off your shoulders to coil around her mid jump, immediately sniping her approach

She’s trapped, an easy target.

The proxy attempts to defend her physical form by rubberbanding back toward you with a heavy ricochet.

You’re barely able to defend by slamming the flat of your gun between her neck and shoulder, redirecting her motion away.

There’s a skid across the ground as she tries her best to maintain her footing, using this as an opportunity to scrap up close.

There’s another attempt to force its way in, the strips of walls around you becoming closer and more condensed to prevent you from being able dodging.
 
It’s too frantic to take the shot safely as she lunges at you full speed

You use the blunt of your gun once more to keep Bern off of you, guiding her movement toward one of the walls.

Bern: Stop holding back!

Opera: Paige!

Paige: Busy!

Paige was having to put everything into trapping her in place.

The proxy escapes, taking big swings at you that put you more and risk of being pinned to the wall with each attempt.

You decide to take the shot way too close for comfort, missing in the chaos but managing to startle.

You take the opportunity to shoulder tackle her into one of the large line, only for her to phase in.

You make the call and blast off a chunk to the left off where she entered, forcing her to travel the other way instead.

It’s easy to pin down the noise with only one opponent in the picture, blasting ahead of her and limiting her escape.

The proxy is forced to emerge, you grabbing her as she pops out and successfully pinning her to the ground.

Bern: Let go!

Opera: Scoop it up!

Another wall lunges at you, tearing through Paige’s bindings.

It manages to separate you from the proxy yet again.

Opera: A-are you okay?

Paige: M-Managing!

Paige is able to seal Bern back up and hobbling over toward you.

Opera: What are you-

Paige: Hostage routine, you know the deal!

You point directly the gun directly at your friend, the other proxy watching in horror

Bern: Wait, what are you doing??

Opera: Back down or I’m taking the shot!

There’s a clap in the background.

Bern’s proxy form repeated it without a moment of hesitation.

Geezer: Stand down, they’re calling a time out.

Opera:... She can’t seriously do that, right? Has it been long enough?

Geezer:.. Yeah. Just barely but… yeah.

Opera: She has to be free, yeah?

Opera: We pinned her..

Geezer looks Bern directly in the eye.

Geezer: She sees herself as the proxy, everything else is just a tool to get around.

Geezer: Ruling with a proxy is that the name entered is the one person that needs to be successfully pinned.

Opera: That’s kinda horseshit..

Geezer: Normally it’s a strategic element. Lots of proxies are brittle, but they’re powerful.

Geezer: A source isn’t going to phase out of existence after getting floored by an uppercut.

Geezer: So you can choose what wincon you wanna give the opponent, so to speak.

Geezer: But when you’re both at the same time…

Geezer: And the proxy’s this much of an oddball..

Geezer: Rules don’t account cause it hasn’t come up in a big enough duel for discussion to happen.

Geezer: New rules in a sport exist when someone causes a stir.

Opera: We were close..

Geezer: Yeah.

You call Paige back, she gives a little whimper as she climbs back onto your shoulder.

Paige: Sorry…

Opera: You did good, match isn’t lost yet.

Geezer: Yeah. Not sure if I’ll get as lucky as round 1 but-

Bern reverts back to her previous state as she approaches Bucket.

She reveals her shoulder.

Geezer: Ah… fuck.

Opera: What is it?

The dog takes a bite immediately, their eyes begin to spark.

Opera: No fucking way…

Geezer: That’s their plan.

The mist reforms around both of you with a stomach turning dread to it.

Bucket approaches, there’s a certain unkempt nature to their fur that gives them a ferocity you haven't seen before.

Bucket: Will there be a tag out for you two as well?

Their tone had a jagged hardness to it, the natural crackling echo of their fiendish voice intensified.

A sword made of twisted metal and bone formed in front of them as they slid their hand across the air as if it were a flat surface.

Opera: I mean I can-

Geezer: Don’t.

Opera: No?

Geezer: Right now any sort of touch makes them a danger to you.

Geezer: Can’t hurt me in the same ways.

Opera: Can you beat them?

Geezer: Yeah, but I’d have to really take one for the team here.. 

Bucket: Certainly you can keep up with this, no?

Bucket: If you're truly my mother's strongest pupil, she's prepped you for this plenty.

Geezer: Maybe.

Bucket: Did you not anticipate this?

Geezer: Course I did.

Geezer: Just.. thinking on this.

Bucket: Be quick about it, stall too long and it’s a forfeit.

Opera:  I think we can take it on.

Geezer: Yeah but..

Geezer: That’s not the gameplan.

Geezer: They can spring back over and over. Not forever but more than we can take.

Geezer: We put in the work, we’re not gonna be good for the rest of the gig.

Bucket: Mm, pieced it together.

Bucket: But… I know you’re holding back.

Geezer: I’m not here to see you die, course I am.

Bucket: If you’re so passionate about being in charge of this job, prove it. Show me your finest.

Geezer: Knight’s passion isn’t just about being strong, you know?

Geezer: It’s about being flexible, making opportunities out of what you have, doing anything and everything you can.

Geezer: And if you can’t, you find someone who can, and you give them the best shot possible.

Geezer: I’m by the book. Don’t pick fights that lead to nothing, know when to pack it up.

Geezer: Playing dirty, but it’s fair game. You know you don’t gotta be able to win the fight. Just gotta make sure we lose.

Bucket: Observant.

Geezer: Used to be big into this kind of theory. Really are as good as they say.

Bucket: Surely you must have something up your sleeve? If you’re to carry the next generation, you need to be able to surpass me.

Bucket: And you clearly have something about you that makes it clear why my mother picked you for the job.
 
Geezer: Don’t gotta build me up like that, I know who I am.

Bucket: So? Show me your best.

Geezer:Not seeing much use in continuing. You talk through your fists, don’t need to see the worst of you like that. 

Bucket: So you’re forfeiting?

Geezer: Can’t keep this up forever. And if I play it out? Neither of us are gonna be any good for the job ahead.

Geezer: Know my limits, got what I wanted out of this. I'm good.

Geezer: Him though? He doesn’t.
 
He tilts his head, gesturing toward the left

Bucket, turning to take a glance.

Bucket: Have you returned Charo-?

Charon swoops in from the right and decks the larger dog full force, launching them off their feet and into the sand.

Bern tries to jump in immediately only to be intercepted by a large and daunting proxy.

Opera: Rook....?

Bern: Fuckin- Let go!

???: Stand down and let it play out. This isn’t your fight.

 You don’t hesitate to take full advantage of the situation, taking aim directly at Bucket.

Opera: You plan this far ahead?

Geezer: Nah, just knew what I was working with.

Geezer: Charon?

Charon: Couldn’t wait for me to return before your coup?

Geezer: Figured you needed the rest. How you holding up?

Charon: Tired, furious.

Opera: Feel that.. Glad you could make it.

Bucket starts getting back to their feet.

Bucket: You’ve breached the rules, this is no longer a civil resolution.

Charon: Never was. Rules are fake and so are you. Every single part of you except for one thing.

Charon points to the sword in their hand.

Bucket: Back down, you don’t want this.

Charon: If this is what it takes to get to know you? So be it…

Charon: I’m going to bring you back home…

Charon reaches over and pulls you in for an awkward hug.

Opera: Are you-

Charon: Can I?

Bucket: Don’t do what I think you’re about to do-

Opera: Fuck them up, dude.

He bites down on your shoulder deep, taking in as much blood as he can get from a single gulp.

Every sensation in your head intensifies, feeling like an eternity before he releases you.

Charon: Thank you..

Opera: Hehe…

You nearly tip over, Geezer managing to catch you.

Geezer: I gotcha.

Opera: You guys never let me down..

You watch in a haze as the halo appears over Charon’s head, its glow burning violently.

Bucket: Your metamorphosis is advancing faster than I anticipated.. what have you become?

Charon: More than enough.

 

---

 

Love
[A New Day]
CW: Violence
Perspective: Charon Mar Judgment

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Bucket: I’ve let this go on too far.

Bucket: Really have failed you…

Bucket picks up their sword.

Bucket: If you’ve got something to show, do it.

Charon: No.

Charon: I’m not playing this on your terms.

Bucket: You disrupt my duel, assault me, and have the audacity to refuse to commit?

Charon: Nothing’s stopping you from taking a swing. 

Bucket: Consider it a mercy then that I’ve the sense to try and reason..

Charon: Reason implies compromise, you want me to go home.

Bucket: You really don’t understand-

Charon: I know enough.

Charon: And I know enough to admit I’m tired.

Charon: I’m not participating in his ruthless cycle.

Bucket: It’s not a cycle-

Charon: Yes it is, nobody in this family knows how to be normal.

Charon: Siblings and parent and child fist fighting each other over what?

Bucket: I’m trying to protect you-

Charon: You’re not! And I need you to shut up and listen to me for once!

The dog makes a hurt noise at that.

Charon:.. Grandma’s not a good liar. Doesn’t at all if she can help it. It’s you.

Bucket: Charon..

Charon: It’s always been you…

Bucket: I can’t let people find out about you… you’re way over your head in all this.

Charon: I know.

Bucket: Your grandmother needs you too.

Bucket: Fiend or not, this job;s taken its toll on her.

Bucket: And if god forbid something happen to you on this job-

Charon: You really want me to step down?

Bucket: It’s not how I’d put it-

Charon: There’s a lot of people I care about putting themselves on the line here. That includes you..

Bucket: You hardly know some of these folks..

Charon: Doesn’t matter.

Bucket: Myself included…

Charon: Then let me in.

Bucket: How can you trust your judgment when you’ve still got that creature on you?

Charon: Rook didn’t do anything-

Bucket: I’m not talking about that proxy of yours.

Charon: I’ll resolve things with Styx on my terms

Bucket: You..

The dog raises their voice in hurt frustration..

Bucket: His existence is taking a toll on you!

Bucket: I know what it did to Geezer! 

Bucket: And I don’t want him to break you any further…

Charon: I know I’m putting a lot of faith in him… but it’ll be different.

Charon: And I’m putting just as much on you.

Bucket:... You’re tempered. Only other member of the family to reach that point was my Grandmother..

Charon: I know.

Bucket: Erica noticed after you came back.

Charon: Mm..

Bucket: The amount of physical and emotional intensity a field needs to go through to reach that point....
 
Bucket: Your body is unstable, perfectly malleable for a number of potential metamorphosis.

Bucket: To have a man like that potentially influence it.. I can’t allow it.

The dog starts to approach you.

Charon: I don’t want to fight you.

Bucket: It won’t be much of one, because it’s not you that I’m after.

Bucket: Tell him to make peace with his god.

Your proxy tries to stand up in front of you, only for you to shove it away.

Charon: Listen to me!

Styx: It’s alright.…

The proxy continues to try and walk toward Bucket, you attempt to hold it back.

Styx: I know you want to fight even know.. And I always admired that about you.

Styx: In this life, in every other.

Styx: As much as you want to try and resolve this otherwise.. I know you’re ready to commit to what comes when negotiation falls through

Charon: It shouldn't have to be this way.

Styx: It won’t. God knows you’ve fought for too long.

A second proxy appears, tall and porcelain white with one with a distinctly feminine shape.

Styx: And in every life you’ll have me.

There’s a long pause, Bucket’s face slowly shifting through the emotions trying to process this.

Bucket: Another proxy…?

Styx: And if there’s anything more true in life, it’s that my rules are not your rules.

Styx: Never been fair for anyone and well..

Styx: It’s more than time to take responsibility for that.

The proxy holds out her hand, otherwise completely still.

It seems to cause Bucket to hesitate, at least for a moment.

Rook seems to calm down, enough for you to release it.

Styx: To take such a cue from the monarchy..

Styx: Disgraceful, but have to give them credit where it’s due. Follow my lead.

You finally approach, rook by your side.

Bucket: What’s the meaning of this?

Charon: Styx would like to negotiate the terms of his surrender.

Charon: A contract for the rights to his execution. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

As you line up directly with the dog, a diamond frame appears directly below the two of you.

Bucket: What is he about to do-

Charon: I’m taking us to his domain, I’m the one fully in control of this magic.

Charon: The only way this is going to work out if you two are face to face.

Bucket gives you a thorough look over.

Bucket: How do I know he hasn’t indoctrinated you fully?

Charon: Grandma Judgment raised me better than that.

Charon: So?

Bucket lets out a frustrated sigh and puts their dented sword down.

Bucket: So be it. But if I suspect anything-

Charon: I can’t stop you from trying.

Charon: But I’m tired of fighting.

The dog nods reluctantly.

The flooring pulls the two of you down like a elevator, the beach above tracking sand into the otherworldly castle before sealing off away from the larger world,

The two of you stand in a field of swords. Despite their age and despite the composite nature of the walls and floors, they’re rather maintained and cozy

Bucket: Cleaner than I expected..

Styx: Your son seems to have taken care of the place while I was away.

Styx: Admittedly looks better than it has in centuries.

The rabbit approaches from behind a massive chunk of ore in the middle of everything.

Styx: I’ve got a contract for you, one that I don’t think you’ll refuse.

THe dog’s fur tenses up.

Bucket: I’d rather not.

Styx: Really? I assumed that if you came this far you’d at least entertain it..

Bucket: I’m giving you a chance to speak, nothing more promised than that I assure.

Bucket: Nothing to stop me from simply ending this now really..

Styx: You tried earlier and it didn’t exactly stick.

Bucket: If it takes some trial and error, I have plenty of patience…

Bucket: For now I’d like to know a few truths, if you’re capable of such.

The rabbit smirks with a confidence that makes you genuinely start to reconsider this.

You pray to god he doesn’t provoke them.

Styx: I keep my end of the bargain if I can help it. So…

Bucket: I see.

The dog gets dangerously close to the entity.

Bucket: Show me your true form.

Styx: This is my true form, as much as what I see is yours.

Bucket: You know what I mean.

Styx: And I insist on what I say.

Styx: I’m a man of many faces. Just because I wasn’t born into them doesn’t make them any less true to myself…

Styx: Despite the treasure horde at our feet, those experiences are what truly matter most..

Styx: And as much as I long to relive them, nothing is more beautiful than the memories I hold…

Styx: I know what you mean of course, and if you really insist I-

Bucket: Stop.

Bucket: You gave me a sufficient answer.. I’d be wrong to press further there..

That seemed to soften their tone somewhat.

Bucket: Why are you and Charon still linked?

Styx: He succeeded me, whether I planned it or not.

Styx: His soul is what’s left of my own. He has inherited every aspect of my existence.

Bucket:.. What does that imply exactly?

Styx: He’s in charge, he’s the entity now.

Styx: I’m merely what’s left of the snake he once signed a contract with.

Styx: And truth be told.. I’m not certain if I am the original at this point. Fragments held together by memories possibly.

Styx: Perhaps I’m just another piece of the knight we call Charon Judgment.

Bucket looks over at you.

Bucket:... Is that true..?

Charon: It’s… very possible.

Charon: I.. am simply a piece of the puzzle myself.

Bucket: ... I suppose that explains a lot of what I’ve seen.

Bucket: Is it just the two of you then or-

You give a little gesture, a line of four proxies enter the  room, each lining up next to you.

Charon: mm..

Bucket:... I’ve seen similar. Is.. this recent?

Charon: In some ways but..

Charon: It’s more just long unaddressed.

Bucket: I see…

Bucket: I’d.. like to talk to you in private, this knowledge has given me much to ponder. 

They look over at Styx.

Bucket: Is that acceptable?

Styx makes a little gesture to call in a proxy of his own.

Styx: Both of you are allowed to, I wouldn't mind a brief pause to this before we continue.

Bucket: Mm...

Bucket: Charon..

Charon: I have a good spot for this, come with me.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

Bucket: Where are we heading?

Charon: Place where we can find a little piece of mind.

Bucket: And… all of them? Your proxies?

Charon: Not sure if that’s all of them but.. Mm.

Bucket: I’ve… much to think about.

Charon: Likewise.

Bucket: I managed to pick up a number of documents regarding guild experiences with you.

Bucket: And I talked to your grandmother as well recently.

Charon: And? Where are you going with this?

Bucket: I didn’t really know what to anticipate.

Charon: Start with Erica.

Bucket: “More stubborn than any of us. Kind of a feat.”

Bucket: “Get him to back down quick cause once he’s settled, he’s not changing his mind.”

Bucket: “At that point? You’re stuck with ‘em. Better make sure he comes back.”

Charon: And?

Bucket: Looks true so far.

Charon: That really all of it?

Bucket: She said you were good with tools, if we weren’t already so deep in…

Bucket: What’s the word?

Charon: Technicians?

Bucket: Good way to phrase it.

Charon:... What were you going to say?

Bucket: It’d feel rude now.

Charon: Try me.

Bucket: Glasses.

Charon:.. Suppose that’s not wrong. Me, Manzana, Fenton…

Bucket: Rosario.

Charon: Haven’t gotten chance to gauge her much.

Bucket: Won’t have to, one of Ali’s hires.

Charon: That’ do it. 

Bucket: But… I’ve worked with her in the past as well.

Bucket: Ali’s been playing a fairly sizable role in my current ventures.

Charon: Was wondering about that.

Bucket: She’s got all the money and contacts. As much as she played a large role in pushing me into my own situation… I can’t deny that she’s efficient.

Charon: Don’t know how anyone puts up with her.

Bucket: She’s a lot like you… but she’s had far less love in her life.

Bucket: I’m happy to see you’ve so many friends..

Charon: Don’t get to see most of them often to be fair..

Bucket: Mm. I understand that feeling…

Bucket: Is this.. Really all in this castle?

Bucket: I’m aware it’s not of this realm but..

Charon: Styx tends to horde, let’s put it like that.

Bucket: It’s somber..

Charon: Mm..

The two of you enter a endless field, the entrance covered in moss and cracked tile far in the distance now.

The sky is long enough to make anyone feel small.

Bucket:... You’re going to fight me out here.

Charon: It won’t be much of a fight.

Bucket: I thought we were done?

Charon: Maybe. We can walk back at any point if you’d like but..

Charon: A stranger approached me today, got a bit dramatic but..

Charon: Managed some good advice out of it.

Charon: I know that deep down this is the best way to understand you.

Bucket: We… You don’t have to do this. I’m sorry for-

Charon: Would you be satisfied if we walked back now?

Bucket: I’ve put you through enough, we-

Charon: Yes or no?

Bucket: ... No.

Bucket: Whoever you spoke to seems to know a lot about me.

Bucket: Aspects I’d never want to admit..

Charon: Mm..

Bucket: So then..

Charon: Nothing but your best.

Bucket: It’d be dangerous-

Charon: Worry about yourself.

With a flick of the wrist, a portal manifests near the larger knight.

Charon: Reach in there, pull out the sword that feels best.

Bucket nods, sticking a hand into the rift.

With a single swing they managed to tear out a massive blade, the portal shattering.

Bucket: That’ll be plenty.. Are you ready-

Charon: As much as I’ll ever be.

Your skull is still vibrating from the rush of drawing blood from Opera.

Bucket puts their guard up.

Bucket: Begin-

As soon as the words exit, Rook dives in with a tank full of gas and a flurry of jabs.

The other dog retaliates, guarding with the flat of the blade and using their weight to push back with immense force.

You use this momentum to approach, your own hand reaching toward the rift at your hip.

You grab a handle comfortably..

Rook takes a massive counterblow, their full weight into a tackle to shove the ghostly dog off of them.

You feel a fog coming in, illusionary smoke trickling into your lungs.

You're low on time to make things count.

You're in range.

Rook makes a second attempt to dive in pressuring the dog, claws slamming the dirt and grass below you into their face.

The dog covers their eyes but instinct allows them to push through and wind up a swing so heavy, the air and grass nearby are shredded.

There's no way they could potentially win a direct trade. Neither could you for that matter.

The illusion starts to take hold, your final chance.

You attached a rift to Rook as they go in swinging one last time, Bucket obliges, diving lower than the proxy's hook and coming in with the counter blow. 

They swing full force.

The world seems to pause for a moment.

The rift flickers.

You switch positions with Rook.

Checkmate.

You drawn the tuner from the rift at your own hip, swinging back with full confidence.

Blades meet, you parry their blow.

You feel the entire force of their attack flow through you, knocking them back with the first motion.

They maintain their footing and guard despite all this.

It didn't disarm them, it didn't crack their blade nor make them stagger all that much.

The kinetic energy starts to overwhelm, you're thinking faster than you ever have in your life..

You do the one thing you know they can't anticipate.

The second swing, releasing the kinetic energy.

Directly under your own feet.

You launch right at the dog, elbows covered in metal gauntlets pivoting the strike.

Your full weight pinpointed with the force of their swing back at them.

This time it's enough to break their guard.

Their footing is strong Despite this, you need to be able to down them in the next hit.

If you could just repeat-

You give rook a nod.



The proxy swings at you, you parry it and in one slick motion and redirect it at them.

A sloppy guard from Bucket, one that doesn't manage to maintain the same defense.

You repeat this.

Again.

And Again.

Something has to give and it's not going to be you.

Guarding each counterblow visibly straining their body, the world around them cracking and crumbling as they tank t until..

You swing...

They're not there.

Rook screeches as they're slammed aside.

It's coming.

As you're pulling your brain out of the dirt, you feel the force coming.

You turn around, Bucket's sword in mid motion.

The look on their eyes, there is no fear.

They think nothing of you.

You won't be able to swing back fast enough.

You abandon the blade.

You use your free hand to guard, this is it.

This is all you can do.

You push back full force as it clashes, you can feel the framework of the gauntlet crumbling.

Your hand inside burning, crackling.

And yet..

a natural parry, you thrust back.

Bucket's guard breaks.

There's a spike of pain in their face. Their sword finally gives.

The kinetic force remains, with your other hand you release it in one big counterpunch.

It sends them directly into the floor, the intensity leaving deep a trail in the dirt.

Checkmate.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

As the dust settles, you put your sword down.

You slowly approach the other dog, Rook trailing behind you with a nervous energy as always.

You offer it a hand, a little comfort.

It takes it.

There’s a brief calm between the two of you, one you’ve desperately needed over the past few days..

Charon: It’s over, you need help?

Bucket slowly lumbers back onto their feet, shaking their head.

Bucket: I’ve never said that I’m finished.

Charon: Really?

Bucket: To show me this resolve is only to be returned with the same.

Bucket: So….

Bucket: Consider yourself more than earning your name and title.

Charon: Is that what it took?

Charon: In that case, I forfeit.

Their ears flop down in disappointment.

Bucket: Pardon?

Charon: I could’ve cleared you out in far less.

Bucket: You’re lying. Show me-

With a swift gesture a fortress of with sharpened arms protruded around the dog.

Charon: In my domain you’re hardly a challenge. But I knew you wouldn’t accept that.

Bucket: Your domain? You mean the entity-

Charon: His name is Styx and I’ve inherited this void. You’re more than welcome as a guest but it’s my land in the end.

Bucket: Mm.. backing down then?

Charon: You speak through the blade you hold. I’m out of words for you.

Bucket: I see..

Charon: So, your decision? You were offered Styx’s surrender.

Bucket: I’ll hold the contract, at least until the job is done.

Bucket: If I see anything out of line I will execute him on the spot, clear and simple.

Charon: Mm..

Bucket: That proxy of yours is odd, doesn’t seem to care much to fight.

Charon: Honestly.. Neither do I.

Bucket: And yet you choose to pursue knighthood? To be a champion of the people without the will to draw your sword?

Charon: I’ve plenty the courage and moreso the motive to drop anyone who’d harm the innocent.

Charon: And should you ever become an enemy to life itself, I’d cut you down too.

You retract all the weapons away, freeing the other dog.

Charon: But… I want to end the cycle.

Charon: A world that needs people like you and me is one that deserves better.

Charon: And if that means we fade from the earth, so be it.

Bucket: You’re really serious..

Charon: One day I’ll return home with you, and you can live out the rest of your days as intended..

Bucket: And what would that be?

Charon: Mortal, loved, and inevitably your life will end quietly in the comfort of your home.

Charon: No more martyrs or gods in this family.  Styx?

The rabbit appears, a contract in hand.

Styx:  Of course..

He offers it out to the knight.

Styx: Take this, assurance that I’ll behave. If you’re not satisfied..

Bucket: Odds are I won’t be.

His ears seem to pull back at that.

Bucket: But..  I suppose a chance is more than warranted.

They take the contract and look back directly at you.

Bucket: I don’t think I understand how you operate. You really remind me so much of your great aunt..

Bucket: Miracle you’re this held together. She’s long been lost in her own mind.

Charon: She just needs a talk.

Bucket: You won’t get far.

Charon: Doesn’t have to be me..

You take a moment to really take in the world around you. The towers, the floating island, the endless skies…


Charon: Styx, what is this place exactly?

Styx: A graveyard from another life. One I couldn’t make out for the life of me. Must’ve forgotten it a long time ago…

Charon: I’d like to take a look, something is calling me..

Styx: Easy to get lost, could be days before you make any significant progress.

Charon: You ever tried?

Styx: Aye..

Styx: This is the lowest level of the castle, the one that teeters on the edge of existence.

Styx: The end of a story, the start of another. A Nameless World..

Charon: I see..

Styx: Does that answer your question-

Charon: I need you to cover me for a bit.

Bucket: Absolutely not.

Styx: Pardon?

Charon: Take care of things out there, I need to dive further.

Charon I feel.. Something calling.

Bucket: I’ve agreed to give him a chance, to give him control of the front-

Styx: I don’t exactly disagree, people wouldn’t exactly care much for me out there.

Charon: There’s someone out there, no?

Styx: Hickory…

Styx: But… I don’t know if I should disrupt their current work.

Styx: They’re on the verge of a discovery themselves-

Charon: Hickory signed a pact with you, the least you can do is ask.

Charon: Know it’s been a good time since you two have talked but-

Styx: We’ve been plenty in contact since I’ve returned. They’re in Plaza as we speak..

Bucket: You’ve had that info on hand..?

Styx: Mm. They asked me to stay silent however. So….

Charon: Find them. Group needs to talk to them if they’re on this job, don’t want any surprises.

The entity opens his mouth to speak, only to stay quiet for a long time.

Charon; Styx? Please…

Styx:... Alright.

Charon: See if you can get Rosario to help you out too. A hired hand won’t have a stance.

Styx: …You’re serious about this then?

Styx: I’ll stay safe if you promise you will.

Charon: Aye.

Styx: Return home. Even if you can’t find what you need.

Charon: Mm..

Styx: I’ll… have my own proxy meet with you. You and Rook need more to back you up if you want to get anywhere. I feel she’s still around despite everything…

Charon: You take care of everyone out there, mean it.

Charon: You want to prove you’re a different man? That’s your chance.

One last gesture, a rift underneath both Styx and Bucket.

Bucket: You’re really going so fast? I..

Bucket: I felt as if we just started talking..

Charon: You had plenty of chances, and if you stick around awhile you’ll get more.

Charon: See you both on the other side..

A big blinding flash as the two are transported away.

You give Rook a small but tired smile, the proxy returning it with a warmth you need right now.

This Nameless World is yours.

---

PROXY’S MEMORIES: MASA CON PAPAS
END OF PART 1
PART 2
NAMELESS WORLD: MASA CON PAPAS
Perspective: Styx Brimstone

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

JUDGMENT DAY: PART 1
CW: Self Destructive Speech, Death Fixation, Public Execution.

You look over the package, everything you need to play out your final hand. Tomorrow is the day of the execution, your journey ends here.

You are Styx; Failed witch, criminal alchemist, and the man who killed heaven itself.

And you are not alone in this either. The contract entity hovers over you as always.

Her bittersweet smile lets you know she wants something, you wish she was more direct about it.

Just.. prompt her. She's likely got a lot on her mind just like you.

"Obol?"

"Just.. making sure that all things are set as intended."

"I've more than accounted for everything, there's not much left for either of us to do now. "

"I know. You feel confident?"

"As much as anyone could be."

"And you're sure you want to commit to this plan?"

"It's the best ending we can make of this, we take what we can."

"Odds are you're going to be executed, made example of."

"And I'll do everything I can to avoid that."

"Even if you play things out cleanly.."

She tapped gently on the bomb attached to you.

"This will ensure sure it's your final act. There's no way you're pulling this off.."

"They won't kill me until there's enough witness. My death is something to be made a example of and anything else is unacceptable."

"You have to recognize how much of a gamble this all is."

"Its a losing game for me, I just can't let them win. As long as everyone sees them crack, what happens to me after matters little."

"That's a dangerous way to think of it..."

"There's no such thing as a victory without losses.."

She made a annoyed hiss under her breath.

"You're really dead set on this.."

"I killed god, the last thing left to do is salt the earth under him."

You finished going through your inventory. Everything is in place.

The device, the trigger, your fee, and the envelope.

You take a look at the latter, your last chance to cash this in.

"You considered my option, right?"

"I've read through and.. I couldn't do that to you."

"Our contract likely is ending soon regardless, I'd like to ensure your safety on the way out."

"I won't let you take a bullet like that."

"I know but... could I at least get one last say on this? I know I've pitched it plenty but.."

You give her a gesture to continue.

"We've always made a point to hear each other out on these things. Go on."

"I refuse to stay quiet then. Just need to choose my words wisely.."

"Mm... I'm afraid you will..."

The entity pulls out a flask and takes a shot to prepare. Nerves really hitting today.

"Sorry, I need a little help for this."

"You're good, go on."

She give you a little nod before continuing.

"We've had a good run together,. And... I don't think I'm personally ready to move on just yet. Really this whole venture has been so... filled with surprises. Never been the type to extend contracts so long and actively, never thought myself the type to consider a lifetime client... it's so overwhelming-"

"Just get to the point."

"Don't snap at me."

The slight waver in her voice hits you with a slit of guilt in your chest.

"Sorry.. continue on."

"...I like what we have, and I'm scared I'll never have that again. And I want you to know how much that matters to me-"

A ugly noise manages to crawl out of your throat. Cold tears build at the edge of your eyelids.

"Styx?"

"That's exactly what I was afraid of myself. You'll come in as always and say just the right words. You'll make me hesitate, have me doubting at the last minute. This was always the plan-"

"The plan was that I stand by your side to the end, that doesn't mean I have to like how you choose to interpret that. You're worth more than this trial, more than a gamble... I wish you could see that.."

"I don't know how much longer I can keep fighting, there's not much left to work with.."

"Then survive until you're strong again, no?"

"Is that really living?"

"More than anything else... I envy your kind in some ways."

"I doubt that."

"Earnest! To live forever in a endless cycle is something that grows dull. Your kind gets sick, ages, goes through so much hardship on a regular basis."

"....Where are you going with this?"

"Mortals have a love in their hearts for the little things. Hot meals on a cold day, loose change under the wardrobe, the little promises you make with your pinkies..  you really cherish all that?"

"Sometimes it's all you can look forward to. Makes is seem miserable..."

"Makes your kind beautiful...."

You start to fiddle with the letter a little.

"Suddenly I understand a lot..."

"...Oh?"



You extend the letter to her.

"I filled out forms. If things sour, I'll take the out."

"..Really?"

"I'm putting faith in you, do not make me regret this..."

"You won't."

She accepts it, giving you a grin of confidence.

"That face has me worried...."

"Don't be. You're about to live forever.."

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

"Can I get one more thing quick? Want to get a bit of guidance."

"I can do a reading for you, just a moment and.."

The entity slides you a tarot card.

"No name or number?"

"You know what it is in your gut, no?"

The World, one where you can't tell up from down.

"This really is the end.."

"For now but.. not forever. I'll say this while I still have the chance though, you're the client that makes me wish I understood people more."

"Nothing says you can't, right?"

"I don't know if its possible but.. for a friend? I'll try. Now then, time to step up to the plate."


[image description: A abstracted humanoid creature, the lower half of a person both up and down. A corruption of the Tarot Major Arcana, "The World" ]
 

---

 

The dream ends, you feel yourself lumped in the sand underneath you.

You're in the physical world, conversation around you.

Bucket: Need you to do me a favor, take a quick look at him for me..

Manzana makes her way over to you quickly, examining your face careful.

[image description: First half of imagine. Styx wakes up in Charon's body, look on his face panicked. Reverse shot showing the focus of his attention, Manzana with her hair a mess and her eyes obscured by glasses. ]

The sight of the rabbit makes your chest hurt immediately.

For a moment you thought it was him but..

Styx: I'm sorry...

The rabbit recoils at the realization.

Manzana: Who are you?

Styx: Styx, it's a long story-

Bucket: A guest so long as he stays in line. You're a bit of a expert on the nature of entities, aren't you?

Manzana: I know a bit but.. where's Charon? What went own in there?

Bucket: That's something I cannot say for sure. He'll return soon..

The dog gives you a mean look.

Bucket: Won't he?

Styx: Safe, off handling some business for awhile. What exactly I'm not entirely sure but... introspective in nature... the castle operates as such.

Bucket: Mm.. and he better return perfectly intact. Manzana?

Manzana: Mm, I'll gauge as best I can. Don't really got the tools on me to be thorough right now but-

Bucket: We can worry about that later, just need a current status.

Manzana: Feel like a mess.. how do I look?

Bucket: More like a Judge than anyone else right now\

The rabbit gives you a apologetic look before placing a hand on the side of your head. You give her a shrug in return and tilt your head to give her a better look at your eyes.

You sneak a glance over her shoulder, Opera and Geezer whispering amongst themselves. Fenton seems to be doing his best to try to listen in.

Styx: I assure you I don't want to be the one here right now but I do owe him quite a bit..

Bucket: You owe him everything for not smothering you a second time.

Styx: Would you?

Bucket: Without hesitation, but for his sake I'm at least giving your offer a chance. Don't need to give him more reason to distrust me..

Styx: Then we're in the same boat, he's spared us both.

Bucket: Spared you? Perhaps. Given me a chance, one that I wish not to test-

Styx: Spared, a chance, in our context both of those are the same. I've seen the boy while he's mad and I assure you Mr. Hero could've cut you down at anytime.

Bucket: I don't think he's reached that point yet-

Styx: Compared to me you're not much more than a summer ant. He bested me ten years less wise and you would not fare better.

Bucket: ...You're the one who taught him to talk like this.

Styx: Have to grow a spine to keep up with me, anything less is asking for trouble...

Bucket: Don't start-

Manzana: Excuse me, all wrapped up. Caught a few interesting details.

The rabbit gets back to her feet and looks over at Bucket.

Bucket:  So?

Manzana: Superorganism. Charon, Styx, every proxy, the hammerspace those guys share.

Bucket:.... No.

Manzana: Can't really force one out of the equation, they've got a symbiotic relationship keeping each other healthy.

Bucket: The entity-

Manzana: Styx.

Bucket: Styx is a invader.

Manzana: Not really? For all intents and purposes he's a proxy with extra steps.

Bucket:...No.

Manzana: Happens sometimes, whether you like it or not he's your kid too.

Styx:.. I'm hundreds of years old-

Manzana: The original Styx? Probably. You're like... a weird mix of parts of the original and Charon's version of you. Just like our current Charon and the other proxies are parts of the same original person.

Your body starts to ache, your chest pounds, you feel like curling up.

The rabbit immediately squats down and puts a hand down on your shoulder.

Manzana: Hey, you're okay....

Styx: I'm... not real?

Manzana: You are! Just.. not exactly what was there before. Like..

Manzana: You think a 10 year old and that same kid 30 years later are the same person? A lot changes, bunch of your cells get hit by the ship of the theseus, but you're just as much that person as you aren't. Like layers on a sedimentary rock...

Styx: I've already lost myself so many times, how would you even begin to understand-

Manzana: Cause me and Plat are in the same boat. Try to think back, remember something.

Styx:  I've been a serpent, a dragon, a bird, a rabbit...

Styx:.. Still cling onto the rabbit thing a bit admittedly..

Manzana: Yeah? Dopple?

Styx: Different kind, lopping ears but from much further out-

Manzana: Ah, Conedic.

Styx: Oh? You know?

Manzana: Yeah, been abroad a lot. Ali used to take me everywhere but now it's just us two..

Styx: Mm..

She looks over at Bucket. The dog's expression strongly dampened by guilt.

Manzana: Go fill in the others, wanna talk in private with him a bit. Sure you could use time to process things too.

Bucket: No kidding..

Manzana: You uh.. going to be okay?

Bucket: I've a lot to atone for...

Manzana stretches out her arm to you.

Styx: A fool to offer a hand to one like myself you know..

Manzana: Consider this a contract then. I'm gonna take you out for breakfast, you talk to me for a bit.

Styx:...That benefits me more than it does you.

Manzana: Relationship building, I've got plenty clients of my own.

Styx: Does pay off in the long run..

Manzana: So?

Styx:... Fine. I'll allow it.

Manzana: Good. Plat will meet us there.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[image description: a pile of photos of various abstracted locations, the most prominent of which is a couple of freshly buried graves with makeshift crosses to mark them. One of them has a locket around it shaped like a heart with two distinctly colored halves.]

Much to your dismay, the promises of a nice breakfast to help fill the three of you in have become a moment of crisis. Platino finally arrives, storming in with a folder filled with piles of photos of locales you know too clearly. The... Mammal? You don't recognize the species of the current body he's using..

He manages to look both excited by his discovery and genuinely fearful at the same time.

Platino: You two need to see this, been doing some sleuthing on the side and uh...

Styx: ...Ah. It continues to complicate.

Manzana: I don't get it, what's all this-

Styx: The angel pocket, haven't it in over a decade.

Platino: Yeah, figured it had to be important.

Styx:.. Where did you get all this? How do you have access to anything?

Platino: One of my mom's insiders, expedition from earlier this year. She's got a knack for getting her hands on all sorts of relics. Lately she's been looking into assembling all sorts that she'd call heirlooms.

Styx: I see.. such as?

Manzana: We got a polearm back at the apartment, one that belonged to one of her old relatives. Zinnia? I mean we talked to them and so did a bunch of the others but...

Styx: Mm.. the angel. That doesn't sound promising for us but continue.

Manzana: Hold up, the... angel? Like or real? I just assumed they were a bit weird and-

Platino: You really gonna question that in this family?

Manzana: No but..

Platino: But what?

Manzana: I guess that'd explain why she just.. doesn't. Mom I mean.

Styx: Elaborate.

Manzana: People. Not just normal anti-social but.. I assumed you guys were all these detached weirdos or something. Never made sense how Geezer ended up so... nice. I guess Charon's like.. I dunno. But outright an angel?

Styx: Heritage hardly defines your sense of humanity, and for the record nobody as far as I know if is directly angel spawn. Zinnia is... just ascended. Suppose if I can become a entity, they could go even further...

The rabbit's ears flopped down.

Manzana: Ah... sorry. I.. I dunno.

Styx: What is it?

Manzana: I don't get why she's just the way she is then like.. she just hates people? Like in a weird way. A lot about her doesn't make sense, you know? She's been through a lot but doesn't care if she hurts other people. She took care of me but you know.. she's never been a good mom like that. Her weird sword demon is nicer to me, her actual kids are nicer to me, I dunno...

Styx: She sensitive?

Manzana: Got no, never seen her cry proper once in her life, if she does it-

Platino: Yeah she's in on that natural born magic shit. Tired of hearing it, personally speaking.

Manzana: Yeah.. all this talk about legacy and power but... why anyone want that if nobody likes them? Like.. I hate to be mean...

Platino: I'll be real we thought about poisoning her a lot as kids but I'm not even sure it'd work. Fiend and all that. Why you ask anyway?

Styx: Nothing, gauging things..

You slide through the photos, one sticks in particular.

A gravesite.

A pain shoots through your chest.

Styx: Great Grandpa...

Manzana:..Huh?

Styx: That's what's started her Spiral, that's her endgame.

Manzana: You're gonna have to clarify a lot dude.

Styx: The angel pocket. Everything in there found its way in based off of a system akin to adding labels for sorting. You familiar with such?

The rabbit's ears pull back.

Manzana: ..Is that really how they work?

Styx: Yes! I assumed with your occupation-

Manzana: No! There's a entire category of research for figuring out how these things work and.. we've never figured out how they think? They abduct-

Styx: Based on similarity, yes. They coincidences they create never have been and their motives are often emotion based but expressed through rather unusual means.

Platino:...Yeah that makes sense. Big people playing with a ant farm.

Styx: And in their eyes we're often about as significant until someone shows teeth. The angel was looking for things such as Fiend, Judgment, Dog, Family, etc. Many got dragged in, displaced through time and space because of such labels. You understand where this is going?

Platino: Lot of you guys got pulled in. Missed our mom though?

Styx: But not her sister, nor her father. They found themselves yanked in at different points.

Platino: ..Ah. She's mentioned her parents are gone, figured they were just old-

Styx: They were both fiendish, statistically speaking at least one of them *should* still be alive assuming their natural lifespan.

Manzana: Right.. don't like that she might be at my funeral like that.

Platino: Nah, we're gonna live forever.

Manzana: Maybe, not exactly the healthiest people...

Platino: We're magic, we'll figure it out.

You give them a extended grin.

Styx: If you choose the path of wild magic I'll gladly welcome you two as my understudies.

Platino:.. Don't smile like that with my friend's face, kinda weird.

Styx: Technically I am your friend-

Platino: Still weird.

Manzana: Yeah gonna have to back him up on that, no offense-

Platino: Speak for yourself, scared you're gonna break his jaw.

Styx: You'll get used to it..

Manzana: Yeah I.. don't think I will?

Styx: Fair enough... back to business.

Manzana: So this is all cause my mom lost her dad?

Styx: Perhaps, I don't exactly know too much about the truth here. Right now my goals are to track down someone on the island who might have a strong lead on all this but... my worst worries are this was all a massive setup. A bait and switch for a scheme more personally motivated than a auction.

Platino: Yeah like... if she just wanted the secret to immortality but she might be the one holding onto this husk in the first place-

Manzana gets up from her seat.

Manzana: I gotta make a call right now.

Platino: You okay?

Manzana: I might have a lead. You two go order something for yourselves.

Platino: You're not gonna eat?

Manzana: You know what I like.

Platino: Guess I do, fill us in though like-

Mazana: Yeah just.. one sec, okay? Gonna ask Needle something.

Platino: Mm..

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[image description: Manzana having a call on a cellphone placed up to her ear, hair covering her face.Little stylized diamonds poke out from the cell phone itself.]

You watched Manzana reach for her phone as she headed outside.

Platino: I'll handle things for now I guess. You know what you'd like? Don't know if you're familiar with current food.

Styx: Plenty... I've got a bad feeling about today if I'm honest.

Platino: Nothing we can't handle honestly, worry about breakfast for now.

The mammal grins at you. You feel a cold airy chill in your chest.

Styx: People like you exist in every era I suppose..

Platino: Yeah? What's that mean?

Styx: Eccentric oddities. Bold folks who take up jobs like these on a dime..

Platino: Someone's gotta. Not like there was a better option for us anyway...

Styx: A story perhaps?

Platino: Keeping it brief? Ali picked us up off the street. We were good at doing DIY witchcraft using random junk. Made a lot of our money that way I guess. She saw that and went "Your talents are wasted, I can offer you a chance to see the world beyond" and well... yeah.

Styx: And.. things were worth it?

Platino: Eh... wouldn't undo it but there was a lot we wish we didn't have to go through. Ali is... very tough love.

Styx: Abusive. Exploitative..

Platino: If you wanna be blunt. Though from what I've heard you're a real piece yourself. Honestly had it coming a little, no offense.

Your ears pulled back immediately.

Styx: I... I wasn't my best self, no.

Platino: Turned a perfectly good dog into a child soldier, wild to me.

Styx: He wasn't just a soldier, he was a weapon.

Platino: What's the difference?

Styx: He wanted to be useful at any cost. Where I came from, a soldier is capable of being worthless during a crucial moment. A weapon always has a place.

Platino: That... sounds worse?

Styx: You're certainly not wrong... it was something I preferred though myself. Certainly not a good thing to pass along...

Platino: You made that kid a ball of anxiety. The amount of times he told me in DMs that he felt like he had to be useful to be worth keeping around-

Styx: I know.

Platino: If you hadn't been through so much already I'd slap you on his behalf but... you're like me.

Styx: Mm?

Platino: Think back, forum days..

Styx: I.. didn't particpate-

No, you absolutely did. Mostly dormant or not, you were there.

Styx: Remember having a bad day, talking about not feeling like myself. Wondering if I ever really came back from that void. You and a couple of other friends were in that chat.

Platino: Keep going.

Styx: It felt.. wrong. Coming back to the things I missed I mean.. for how much I found myself clinging onto the idea of safe return, I'm not sure I really did make it back.

Platino: Had to fake it for a long time.

Styx: Still sometimes do... in my mind I'm still there, and everything I see is merely a looking glass. It's unfair, irrational. Everyone pretending things are fine while my skull is burning. Having to smile but rarely meaning it.. and I could never really explain it to anyone. They'd just never get it.. felt crazy...

Platino: I tried my best but...

Styx: You always did, and.. in your own way you understood.

Platino: Maybe. Not the same but.. a lot of what you said really made sense to me.

Styx: Mm...

He rubbed his nose for a moment, processing things.

Platino: Gonna try something quick. don't freak out.

Styx: What are you-

Platino: Charon?

Your body jolts. You're reacting to it as if it were your own name.

Platino:.. Yeah.

You accidentally let out a ugly noise.

Platino: You're gonna be okay.

Styx: ..I don't think I know who I am anymore.

Platino: You'll figure it out, went through the same shit.

Styx: And...? What happens?

Platino: You're a remnant of two people who once existed separate, you'll figure out which parts you resonate with more. For me? I think I like myself as Manzana with a little sauce.

Styx: That's a way to phrase it...

Platino: If you know, you know.

Styx: It's something sexy-

Platino: Yep. For your sake avoid my after dark.

Styx: I don't know what that is.

Platino: Good. Now uh-

He pauses, his ears twitching.

You.. also feel something. You pick up the signal of a nearby phone.

Manzana: You told them I was taking a sick day??

Needle: Had to cover for you somehow, is that like-

Manzana: Mission's gonna wanna drop by my place to check on me...

Needle: Oh god are you in trouble or-

Manzana: Not if I'm there but... I had plans and I-

Needle: I can cover you if you send me instructions, that's fine.

Manzana: Yeah okay uh.. gonna text you to look into a few files on our caseload. Receipts regarding Southeast Plaza Bay as well. Recent auctions and-

Needle: I'm gonna stop you right there and say use the alt. Think someone's listening.

Manzana: That's probably just Plat but.. yeah, okay.

Needle: I'll got you. For now go back, prep. I see them wrapping up their inspection..

Manzana: Alright..

Needle: You need to catch me up on a few things also. Family, the date.. curious about that one a lot actually.

Manzana: Y-yeah, yeah okay. Once we've got things sorted?

Needle: Yeah... I'll get going over here.

Manzana: Mm... see you soon then?

Needle: Yeah, don't get into any trouble til then.

Manzana: I'll do my best, later.

The signal cuts off. You look out the windows and watch Manzana come back through the door.

Manzana: We got a situation-

Platino: Heard everything. You go back, I'll grab food here for you. Gives us a alibi if I'm picking up breakfast for the two of us..

Manzana: Mm.. hope to god Mom's not around. Styx?

Styx: Also filled in.

Manzana: I... oh god was that you?

Styx: Not intentionally, entity quirk..

Platino: That's on me...

Manzana: Right okay well... so we're all filled in-

Mission: Excuse me, you all ready to order?

Everyone turns sharply, the entity in full waitress attire giving the three of you the most smug of auras.

You snarl at them on reflex.

Mission: Relax, I'm not hear to start anything. You did spare my life after all..

Styx: Don't make me regret that so soon..

Mission: I think you're a bit too soft to make good on that threat these days... but I'm actually here to ask your group for a big favor.

Their voice and posture soften.

Mission: I'll do whatever I can...

Styx: The audacity after all you've-

Platino: Gonna need you to back down dude, they're serious.

Manzana: Yeah I.. don't know what beef you two have but I've known her for a long time...

Styx:...I'll hear you out then.

Mission: Ali's been incredibly desperate, sloppy, reaching some kind of endgame... I need you to save her from herself.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Manzana stops at a nearby wall and slumps against it. You're tempted to join in yourself.

Mission: Tired?

Manzana: Lost. Like... what does she even want anymore? This whole weird setup? Erica's not even here? How much was she even like, involved?

Styx: I'm having trouble imagining there was anything she really wanted to begin with.

Mission gave you a conflicted smirk.

Styx:.. Have something you'd like to say?

Mission: Just... a good observation. And that's why you're best suited to answer that.

Styx:... There is nothing that'd make her happy. She lives in a self destructive spiral, the pursuit of immortality is just a distraction from that. Even if she were to succeed at the former-

Mission: It'd only make her worse. And... I know she has her issues.

The other entity turns toward Manzana.

Manzana: I know...

Mission: I'd never dare ask you to forgive her for any of it but... you also share a complex relationship with her.

Manzana: Yeah.

Mission: I... do wish I had stepped in more. Never liked the way she treated you, or Bucket, or any of her kids really...

Manzana: Never held anything against you.

Mission: I tried to talk to her plenty of times, she has a soft side at times but it's locked so far now... I don't know. Terrible parent, operating off some cracked and battered parody of what she understands as tough love. There were moments however and...

They let out a deep sigh.

Mission: Perhaps I enabled that by not speaking enough.

Manzana: Hey, look um...

Mission: You ever care about someone you know who's bad for you? That's... probably a awful way to talk about anyone but-

Manzana: I mean... I kinda get you.

Platino: Yeah we.... give me a sec-

Manzana gave Platino a little assuring pat on the shoulder.

Manzana: You can talk. I'll be fine.

Platino:.. Sometimes she'd come home completely scuffed. Like, you can tell a job went bad, a fight went sour. And I'd get scared cause like, you can see it inside and out.

Manzana: We'd always try to help her, even with everything. She'd snarl, scream til I left the room but..

Mission: She'd give you eyes like a kid who got struck.

Zana and Plat both give Mission a quiet nod.

Mission: We're reaching a point where decisions we cannot undo will come into play.. I just don't want to have to handle this in a way I'd regret. I come to you because I do believe you are my best hope here.

You give the entity a slow clap in response.

Mission: Are you not up for this?

Styx: Depends. Exactly are you asking from me specifically? I have little personal investment or stakes in this, I'm simply here to reduce casualty.

Mission: Plenty, you're a expert when it comes to sad boys with big swords. You've got your hands on one right now that shares a common soul. When you see yourself in another's eyes...

Manzana turns to give Mission a nasty look.

Mission: I'm serious-

Manzana: Charon? Dude's a bit of a punk sometimes but-

Mission: But?

Manzana: I can't see it? Dude's confident but it's like... theater kid? He's not even like, a mean theater kid just.. soft.

Mission: Why do you think Bucket picked Ali over Erica?

Manzana: No!

There was a bitter cackle under her breath.

Styx: There's more solidarity in simple things like that than you'd think, I can believe it.. but that does raise the question of what you're about to ask from me.

Platino: Yeah I don't like where this is going, you're not gonna ask for a contract transfer are you-

Mission: As tempting as it is to make friends with a walking pipebomb, not today. I propose we let them fight.

Manzana crossed her arms into a big X.

Manzana: She'd kill him, Bucket dropped him without breaking a sweat-

Styx: He won the rematch.

Manzana: ....Wait really?

Styx: With caveats that evened the odds significantly but...

Mission: But its potentially possible with a further lift, no?

Styx: Potentially is the key word.

Mission: Mmhmm! Bit of a wild card I wasn't prepped for but its a bonus in a stacked hand. Your friend hickory's been quite the asset...

Styx: You have contracts besides Ali...

Mission: You had a few little extra rogues of your own, its more than fair. Always have.

Styx: Can't really deny that..

Mission: And you've got quite the pawn yourself right now-

Styx: Don't call him that.

Mission: That's hardly meant to be a insult, every pawn is a potential queen. Shown me that quite well.

Styx: All I do is hand people opportunity, everything else is their work.

Mission: Like the ant you brought into my home? She was quite unpleasant...

Styx: That ant was more the man than you'll ever be, you do not speak of her-

Mission: I'm made of almost a dozen people, find that hard to believe. Honestly though between the two clowns, the ringleader, and the entire sideshow it really was a circus... you're not bad at bringing out the value of people.

Styx: If you're going to talk of everyone as a resource-

Mission: I'll back down, though I must wonder where this change of heart came from now..

Styx: Time has done a lot to me, if you play nice this could be a fresh tab.

Mission: Then you could consider it the same for myself.

Styx: And what did that for you?

Mission: I... remembered what it used to be like before what I was when we met. We'll leave it at that for now.

Platino: Got a big question, something still doesn't make much sense.

Mission: Mm?

Platino: Why do you need Charon to fight Ali? Feels like everyone here wants a shot to drop her.

Mission: Like I said, she'd see herself in a kinder life.

Platino: He's gotta fight for that though? Why not like.. talk?

Mission: Words are wasted on her these days, fighting is her voice....  In the meantime we should take the time to coordinate a way to prevent her current project.

The psuedo-entity reaches for her phone and flashes some roughly shot photos of... what seemed to be a oddly muzzled humanoid rabbit? There was a distinct halo above its head..

Manzana's ears pulled back.

Mission: Its... dire.

 Platino: What even is that...?

Styx: Another husk...

Mission: One in the middle of being tailored for her specifically...

Platino: That's... a lot to process.

Styx: I'll gladly take claim, I'd like to be a rabbit again I think.. Does raise concerns though.

Platino: Yeah like, what happened to the one we were supposed to steal?

Mission: Discovered and secured. Hickory let me know they were in the middle of transferring the thing somewhere safe.

Platino: On their own?

He looks directly at you.

Styx: ..What's wrong?

Platino: You gave this kid a contract?

Styx: Not a big one...

Platino: You guys are freaks, you know that? Like absolutely menaces. Where do you find anyone brave enough to pull it off-

Mission: You can relax, it was quite easier than you'd think.

Another photo..

The old husk in the middle of preparation, one disposal team pickup from being nothing more than biowaste.

You feel your stomach hurt. For how much this thing has wronged you, something about seeing it halfway in the bin immediately tailspins your mental state.

Platino:..Ali threw that shit out?

Mission: Was about to, our guy took full advantage of a low security situation.

Styx: Where is Hickory right now? I need to make absolutely sure nothing intercepts them.

Mission: Nobody will-

Styx: They are lugging around the corpse of a failed god, I need to see this in person now.

Mission:... I'll set up a point.

Platino: Count me in too, something just doesn't feel right.

Manzana: You want me to let Opera and the others know?

Mission: I'd like to keep this lower profile-

Styx: I think at the very least, she has a right to as well.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

[image description: Styx in Charon's body having pinned Hickory to a wall with a forked weapon coming out of a portal between realities.]

 

You follow the coordinates and instructions given down to the slightest, any sort of fear that something is off will cause Hickory to bail immediately.

This looks like the place, the fenced off lot of abandoned storage units left to rust and decay. You're quick to both hop the fence, Platino struggling just a little bit at first and you perhaps not so much better.

Number 15.. you find the room.

Door is broken, easy to enter.

Platino gestures to give lead as the point.

The bird is there as you'd imagine, glowing eyes and looking rough around the edges today.

That's absolutely them.

Platino: Party of two, we're here on the behalf of Mission.

The bird looks over you both carefully before focusing hard on you.

Hickory:..Who are you-

You're quick to act, with a wave of the hand a rift launches a laddered' weapon, pinning the bird to the wall.

Hickory: S-Styx?!

Platino tries to grab you, you casually sidestep him as you approach the bird. Your old faithful proxy rubs salt in the would by blocking off a second attempt, giving him a apologetic look.

Styx: Who are you? I don't recall you surviving in that hellhole...

Hickory: Same with you, seemed pretty dead...

Styx: I cheated my way but.. The angel struck you out of the sky. There was nothing left to salvage...

Hickory: -How, you shouldn't be able to remember that??

You push the blade a bit closer.

Platino: Hey, you need to back off-

Styx: Not until I have a clear answer.

Hickory: ....How do you remember that part.

Styx: Because I was there-

Hickory: Were you? You don't remember the rest?

You feel your gut immediately hurt.

Styx: What's the rest?

Hickory: Tell me everything you remember about me..

Styx: We- Charon and Geezer met you on the train with Fenton. You helped us get to know the people on the street, evade the cult. You were a very capable ally despite your age. And the things cropped up. Sleepwalking, violent tendencies, Fenton would talk to us about fears of something very wrong.

Hickory: And what happened there?

Styx: You were a sleeper agent, the whole time you were ready to be activated by...

You can't finish that sentence.

What was her name?

Hickory: By who?

Styx: You fought your programming-

Hickory: Go back and finish your sentence.

Styx: Her name was....

Is it really gone??

Hickory: Alright. Yeah...

Styx: What's happening?

Hickory: A phenomenon of sorts, bit complicated but.. let me go and I'll fill you in, alright?

You look over at your comrade.

Platino: I've got you covered, you can let them go dude.

You pull back the sword from the wall, keeping it still on hand.

Hickory: Angels got a bad habit of blipping things out of reality, right? Completely erased and filled in with something else to correct the gaps in memories.

Styx: I'm very aware of this.

Hickory: But it has to go somewhere. Same with people who die.

Styx:.... Right.

Hickory: The first time you met me, I was a sleeper agent like you said. Cult built me to be someone to trigger when it's least convenient... not too proud but-

Styx:... You still clutched it out.

Hickory:... Yeah.

They look at your face carefully. You immediately turn your eyes away.

Hickory: You really Styx? No offense but..... something's off.

Styx: Complicated.

Hickory: Accusing me of being a fake when you don't know yourself for sure.

Styx:.. Suppose that is true.. I'm.. a amalgamation of multiple things I believe.

Hickory: ...Charon?

Your ears flick in response.

Platino: Yeah I did the same thing..

Hickory: You guys beefed the contract....

Styx: I.. yes we did.

Hickory: Okay. That helps a lot actually... so yeah I did eat shit.

Styx: But-

Hickory: And then I woke up, completely different person but... I could remember things from the first time we met. The woman you remember? Details.

Styx: Muzzled, reptilian, pair of horns, glasses, fiendish eyes, she was quite in with the church and...

Hickory: Hydra, The Crowned Fool.

Styx: Aye...

Hickory: Tried to bring down the church long ago, party wiped. Ferryman archetype, aura color red, runt of a prestigious family of adventurers.

Styx:....

Hickory: Otherworldly Element was Chaos, of a Raw quality. Same as mine, same as...

Styx:..Ours.

Hickory steps aside, the husk resting behind looking somewhat peaceful.

Hickory: And mine, and hers. I don't know what you guys did but.. you deleted her. And when you wiped her out I came back, but I was real. Like... I just existed. My past, my life, all things that went from a story to sell to just... existing.

Styx:.. We did that. She had a tuner, there was a volley and she lost...

Styx: She took the blast head on, completely removed from reality...

The bird takes a moment to approach you, offering a hand.

Styx:... What are you doing?

Hickory: I know who to thank now so.. you know. Feels right to do.

Hickory: I guess just... there's a whole life that vanished, versions of us we all forgot and like... It's nice to know someone else was there.

You reach out briefly, only to never make the connection.

Hickory:... Something wrong?

Styx: A lot to take in..  I don't think I'm the right person for this either to be frank... can this wait?

The bird gives you a little nod.

Styx: Appreciated..

Plat scoots up close toward the husk.
 

[image description: The husk, a humanoid feline of feminine presentation rests against a wall slumped.]

 

Platino: Breathing weird.

Hickory: Has been all day.. something's going on in its head.

Platino: Anything more?

Hickory: Mumbling, nothing coherent though. Might be some kind of residual, I dunno...

Platino: Huh...

You make your way next to it yourself , checking for a pulse.

Hickory: What's up?

Styx: Just a gut feeling, nothing in particular. Wanted to check for myself.

It's you...
 

[image description: Styx in Charon's body looking down lot in thought.]

Welcome home...
 

---

 

The Other World that Hates You
[Another Side, Another Charon]
CW: None
Perspective: Charon

[image description: A Art Program with a illustration of a landscape filled patched up smaller illustrations and text conversation. Charon is at the center. The illustration is filled with tears and cracks that damage the screen of the monitor the art program is booted in itself.]



You are Charon Judgment, King at The End of the Line..
As always you've found yourself in a bit of a bind....

And its good to be home.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

[image description: Rook, the canine furry skeletal proxy approaches a cloaked stranger who is mostly off the artwork's frame. Charon stands in the background, hair messy and weapon in hand watching in anticipation of a fight.]

You've found yourself with little chance to rest in the time since you've entered.

The fauna is hostile.

The air is volatile.

No matter where you go, the wind and storm seem to be all against you.

All that remains is ruins, memories of a era you've long forgotten.

Somehow all this feels within your comfort zone, as if you've always been meant to end up here one day but..

That is not now, you've plenty of work.

And unfortunately for you, another opponent arrives, a rat.

Rook takes initiative, ready to approach.

Since you've managed to win a scrap with your familial predecessor, their confidence has shown a massive boon.

You prep your weapon close, prepping to give your proxy cover...

only to be met with a light gesture and a kindly voice.

The Rat: You've come a long way for a unmarked grave. So be the old saying.

The Rat: Fortunately for you, my intentions have no overlap there.

You find yourself weirdly at ease, words lost.

The Rat: I can't really tell how to greet you if I'm honest though. Old friend? Someone I've been more than overdue on meeting? Still...

The Rat: I didn't think I'd be seeing you in a place for a good while. All grown up.. stronger, healthier than I recall.

Charon:... You do remind me of someone.

The Rat: I'd hope so.. you've certainly seen me at least a few times.

Was it...?

No that's absurd.

Charon: Do you know my name?

The Rat: Mm, and your grandmother too.. we've been friends for quite a long time.

The Rat: and of course that means that you're more than welcome in my domain as well... not that we're currently there.

Charon: Are you...

Lets not make it weird..

Charon: An entity of hers?

The Rat: You could put it like that, on much better terms than I understand you were with yours. She talks about you all the time you know?

Your proxy is given a good look from head to toe by the rat.

Charon: Something wrong?

The Rat: Hard to tell, you've been giving your friend there quite the workout though..

Charon: There's been a lot happening very quickly..

The Rat: Mmhmm! I can see it on you as well.... I take it you've ascended then? Does your family know at all? I can inform them you're safe if-

Charon: I'm more than well and alive... I'm just handling a bit of maintenance. Something here has been calling me..

The Rat: A void will tend to do that, given enough incentive to keep the people within. I would heed caution, whatever rewards may be on the other end often cannot be taken home after all.

Charon: Could you provide me with info perhaps? I... I really could use anything at the point I'm at.

The Rat: Mmhmm! And plenty more. A safehouse of mine isn't too far from here, perhaps you'd like to take a rest there? Clean up, a glass of wine-

Charon: ...A slice of cheese?

The Rat: Erica taught you well.

Charon: Just a lucky guess really.

The Rat: Intuition is a valuable thing to have, don't sell yourself short.

The rat gestures toward the two of you to follow.

Charon: Right now?

The Rat: Time moves differently here, whatever has you worried back home I assure it hasn't been long and you've plenty of daylight to spare.

Charon: Mm, fair enough. Rook?

The proxy nods, retreating back to just behind your shoulder and clinging on. Any sort of intensity coming from it seems to be gone..  You manage to maintain a good pace keeping up, though your legs are starting to rebel.

It seems like good timing at the very least... can you really trust him though?

Just don't agree to anything you can't commit to, this is the land of folks like Styx.

The Rat: Timid thing, really is putting on a brave face for your sake.

Charon: Can't be helped.

The Rat: To be frank that's really just it telling on you in ways you're not ready to admit.. You work yourself too hard. Your whole family tends to make that quite obvious but..

Charon: I.. need to work on that.

The Rat: Treat yourself, resting well is a part of becoming a more complete person after all..

Charon: You are correct... speaking of..

The Rat: Mm?

The rat turns over to look at you.

Charon: Introduction?

The Rat:.. Really just went straight to the old wizard thing.. The name is Anura.

Charon: Like a frog?

Anura: Perhaps, but I suppose that'd make you a frog too-

Charon: No.

Anura: No?

Charon: You are not dropping this revelation on me until we are seated.

 

 

[image description: Anura, the rat, face close up. He has dark hair, a eye that's always closed and another that's hidden behind bindings, a hat, stitched lines around his neck, and a pair of bite marks around his neck and shoulder. Scars from what look like someone of vampiric nature.]

He gives you a silly little smile.

Charon: I'm serious-

Anura: So am I.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The three of you quickly make your way over toward a cozy old timey shack half burrowed into a hill. On entering there's a immediate sense of home, a very lived in place that smelled like the old Judgment House during winter.

You had to wonder.

Anura: Get yourself situated, plenty to catch up on.

You give him a little nod and prep the couch while he gets the fireplace going.

Your proxy scoots up and rests its head on your shoulder. It was clearly exhausted...

Anura wraps up and sits himself down on a big chair across the coffee table.

You place your weapon down to the side carefully.

Charon: So, lets get to the point.

Anura: Go head.

Charon: Relationship to my grandmother?

Anura: Friend, occasional partner, sometimes the pivot of a affair..

Charon: And Bucket Judgment if you're familiar with the name?

Anura: Tied by blood and not much else, Erica didn't really want to have the complications of a entity parent around. Respected her wishes to wed mortal but.. it didn't go well I don't think. Did my best to provide financially but never had much chance to meet.

You point directly at the rat.

Charon: Grandpa.

Anura: Mm... Very much didn't anticipate to meet you today that's for sure..

Charon: I think that was the intent.

Anura: I'm sure it was but at this point you're old enough to know I think. Erica can't stop you from being your own person...

Charon:  Has Bucket-

Anura: No, and if you hadn't come across me I doubt you'd know about me either. Like I said, Erica wanted to avoid complications and especially around things of a otherworldly nature. She... had a bit of a hard past with those-

Charon: The angel pocket.

Anura:...Then you are aware.

Charon: Mm..

Anura: How much-
 

[image description: A sky with a crack across it, ripping into a celestial body with a trumpet erected from the bottom and trailing all the way toward the ground. It passes through buildings leaving a empty space. Ashes all, a flag is settled on a rooftop nearby.]

Charon: I was there, I saw all of it....

Anura's eyes shift toward the bladed tuner settled next to you.

Then back to you.

Anura: I'm glad I found you when I did, people do not take kindly to folks with one of those around here. Though thinking about it..

He tilts his head.

Anura: It's you who created the crack in the sky.

Charon:...Aye. Bit of a childhood accident

Anura: Its incredible, terrifying, but... not going to win you friends around these parts.

Charon: Bit too late for a warning there, hostile encounters one after the other.

Anura: In their eyes and their church you are the devil. You struck down their god, their path to ascending mortality, their entire kingdom.

Charon: They were killing my kind for resources.

Anura: That's the part they refuse to pass down, the idea that this was karmic. The result of hubris and organized cruelty.

Charon: It's only been a decade-

Anura In your time maybe. For the people on this side of the crack, those ejected from their own reality? Its been generations. Plenty of time for them to frame you as a monster of legend.

You feel a pain in your gut.

Charon: Then the people who attacked me-

Anura: Descendants of the church you dethroned long ago.

Charon: They don't know anything else...

Anura: Nor will they likely ever I think.

You press a hand to your forehead.

Anura: Something wrong?

Charon: I.... assumed they were just remnants but-

Anura: But..?

Charon: I've injured a good number, possibly killed at least one at this point. Whatever vitriol they have will only worsen-

Anura: You are well within your right to defend yourself-

 

[image description: A album cover inspired image of the proxy Mar facing down against another mystery humanoid figure on a pair of old rooftops. The latter figure has a long neck, round globe-like head, hoodie, shorts, and a feminine figure. There's trees and a tower in the background, the rendering styles split between two halves of the image separated by a large crack.]

 

Charon: They're attacking me because they're afraid. They are products of their upbringings. Any actions I've taken are likely speculation, raising panic, justifying further hostility in the future.

Anura: It is not your responsibility to ease the fears of those who's violence and bigotry would lead you toward a sudden coffin.

Charon: It is my responsibility to prevent further spread and I have fundamentally failed on that department.

Anura: And you understand that part of that responsibility is recognizing when you can't change someone's mind, yes? That sometimes you have to protect yourself and others before you can even start to undo the failed lectures of the parent?

Charon: ... Mm.

Your proxy starts to tremble.

You give it a gentle pat on its shoulder.

Charon: I'm sorry..

Anura: I'm not going to yell at you for voicing sincerity..  but I am going to ask you to hold back from any heroic gestures.

Charon: If I'm to go further along this land more encounters are inevitable.

Anura: Do you need to be here in the first place?

Charon: I don't really know, something here's calling me.

Anura: And do you hear it at the moment.

A pause, silence.

Charon: No.

Anura: Then for now, you're where you need to be. Now I ask that you take some time to rest before you venture back out..

You give him a little nod.

Anura: I can tell a lot is going on and you're juggling far too much at the moment so.. at least for now allow me to be you ally. From one entity to another if family is too strong a word-

Charon: You know then.

Anura: I can see every contract, and I can see your poisoning blooming into something.... almost unprecedented.

Charon: So I've been told..

Anura: Still your grounding in your own world is unique, very few of our kind can consider ourselves still bound to the physical like yourself. There's people you're attached to by the promises made..  

Anura holds out a pinky.

Anura: Promises to take care of others, to be better to yourself, vows to protect people and ambitions of creating a kinder world. In a way those are mortal pacts. And right now with me not feeling very comfortable letting you wander on your own, perhaps I can offer you contact with a comrade?

Charon: Can you? I mean... I'd like that.

Anura: Mmhmm. Just name someone, anyone.

Bucket is a powerhouse but.. you've had enough of them for now.

Geezer is incredibly reliable and level headed... which means he can't afford to have his time and energy split like that.

Plat and Manzana are capable but... they're already stressed

Which means-

Charon: Can I get a call in with Opera Reyes?

Anura: Absolutely but...

Anura gets up from his seat.

Anura: Hot chocolate and sweets first, I've been dying to show off my technique.

Charon: Wouldn't it make more sense now-

Anura: You are going to rest first. Then we can discuss gameplan. Deal?

Charon: ...Deal.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

[image description: Paige, a bedsheet ghost-like proxy of ambiguous species and gender lays on the living room couch.]
 

After a nice break, Anura takes you to a corner of the room with a large mirror.

Charon: This legitimate? Seems ancient..

Anura: Real blessed silver.

The appearance is entirely fogged up, at best you can see the corners of the background around the edges.

Charon: Can't see my reflection...

Anura: It's how you know it's working.. So, shall we give it a spin?

Charon: Take lead.

Anura gives the mirror a little bow before stepping aside.

The image clears up, you can see through the break area of the safehouse. A familiar rabbit stands directly in front, with Opera in the corner eating a breakfast sandwich.

Mercury: Yo Charon's here, he's got a rat with him-

Opera: What?!

Mercury: Yeah, you know anything about-

The sea bunny is immediately shoved aside.

Opera: Charon?! Is everything alright? Why is Styx in the front?!

Charon: I'm fine, at my grandfather's place...

Opera: You mean like, Arabis or...

Charon: Actual grandfather, not several times great-

Opera: Wait what. Like, Erica's-

Charon: Mm..

Anura: It's more complicated than that but-

Opera: Is that him behind you...?

Charon: Mm..

Mercury: Rat...

Charon: Yes.

Mercury: He's kinda cute not gonna lie-

Anura: Accounted for.

Mercury: Shame, got any friends?

Anura: Perhaps..

Charon: Need you both to stop.

Mercury: Sorry.. where are you though actually?

Opera: Yeah, are you in the castle or..?

Charon: In some kind of rift, a pocket between worlds of sort not too unlike the one we dealt with. I've got a bit of a request.

There's a little sigh let out, cat visibly a little on edge.

Opera: ...Okay, sure.

Charon: I want you to come with me, there's something deeply wrong here and it's tied to what happened back then.

The cat turns quiet.

Charon: I know its a lot to ask and you've got plenty on your plate-

Opera: No, if this can help us out with all that we're about to take on I've got you. Just... should I tell Geezer?

Mercury: I can handle that for you, can we keep communications going if we gotta?

Anura: We can! I have a handheld mirror for this purpose I can dig up.

Mercury: Cool, anyone else I should fill in?

Charon: Just Geezer for now, he can make good judgment on how to handle details from there. Prioritize our old crew first though..

Opera: So no Bucket?

Charon: I need a break from Bucket if I'm frank, If I have to fight them one more time I'm taking them to the ground.

Anura:...Bucket is out there?

Charon: Mm..

Anura: I see.. second limiting distribution of details for now, lot to process and well... topic for another time.

You give the rat a hand on the shoulder.

Anura: I apologize..

Charon: You're fine. So, Opera?

Opera: Merc?

Mercury: Go ahead, I'll handle the house from here. Keep Geezer and Bucket from killing each other...

Charon: Mm..

Opera: Then take me away.

He reach a hand out through the mirror, Opera latches on before you yank her through the other side.


She stumbles a bit, Paige's head poking out irritated from the cloak on her shoulder.

Charon: Looks like we woke them up...

Opera: He'll be fine, right buddy?

Paige gives the two of you a sulky energy before making their way over to the couch with Rook.

Charon: They can have their time I suppose..

Opera: Mm..

Her fur visibly stands a little bit too on closer glance.

Charon: You gonna be alright?

Opera: Hate going into places like these, you can always feel something big watching you..

Anura: I assure you that's just a docile psychofauna...

Opera: I don't like that you got a term for that.

The rat gave her a shrug.

Anura: Occupational hazard.

Opera: Feel that a bit too much. So uh.. Merc?

The rabbit gives you a thumbs up.

Mercury: I'll keep a tab as much as I can, fill you in as things play out. Sound good?

Opera: Yeah, trusting you big here!

Mercury: I know, you kids stay safe in there.

Charon: As much as we can.

Mercury:... Right. I'm on standby then, anytime call in.

The mirror's glass cloud up instantly.  

Anura points directly at the cat.

Anura: You look overworked, you should get a little rest yourself while you're here.

Opera: Charon?

Charon: He won't take no, promised him I would anyway.

Opera: Guess we're on break then...

She looks you up and down and gives you the slightest frown.

Opera: It's only been like a couple of hours dude..

Charon: Time operates differently in here...

Opera: So how long-

Charon: Two days.

She immediately gives you a big hug.

You awkwardly return it.

Opera: You can't just do that...

Charon: I know..  that's why I'm asking for help.

Opera: Don't wait next time things get rough..

Charon: I'm sorry.

She looks over to Anura.

Anura: Something on your mind?

Opera: You're an entity.

Anura: Mm, you are correct..

Opera: Feels hard to believe. Don't... really like being around them much if I'm honest but...

Opera: You're different.

Anura: Every entity is... I don't blame you for your caution however.

Opera: And Charon's got some stuff going on too..

Opera: You took care of my friend so.. as long as ya'll can give me space when I need I can try to trust you.

Anura: I won't let it be misplaced..

She gives him a quiet little nod before walking you over to the couch.

Charon: What's up?

Opera: Making sure you get your rest too, your proxy's got the right idea.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

---

You've made yourself comfortable in the guest room, a hammock set up lovingly.

You made a deal, now you've got to commit to it.

Its been so long since you've been able to rest. It feels harder than it should be.

You're not long before Opera checks in on you, look of concern on her.

Charon: Hey.

Opera: Hey, things going alright?

Charon: Honestly about as I expected.

Opera: Is that good?

Charon: ...No.

Opera: What's up?

Charon: It's complicated.

Opera: Yeah? I mean you can explain it to me you know. Nobody's going to understand you more than well..

Charon: Aye, another version of me.

Opera: Mmhmm.

She look you over closely.

Opera: Clothes took a lot of wear and tear.

Charon: Been getting jumped repeatedly, nobody's meant to fight this much in a day.

Opera: No kidding..

Her eyes zoom in on the stains of various colors across your body, the dried gold of a fiend especially catching things.

Opera: You got hurt..

Charon: Nothing too bad.

Opera: You should've asked someone to come with you...

Charon: Didn't know what this place was, felt Rook and I were enough...

Opera: A proxy and a fancy sword's not enough to keep you safe forever you know.. folks in a tough place end up just as hard you know? Whatever power you got back home's a little less so in  a pocket like this..

Charon: I'm already struggling to keep up back there.

Opera: Bucket's not normal-

Charon: Neither is Ali, neither is anyone looking to gain from that auction-

Opera: Which is why we're working as a team, right? Our friends, me and paige, you and rook.. you live and die by that.

Charon: Mm...

Opera: Like I know you wanna take the load off people but if you break first-

Charon: I know...

Opera: We should get you dressed in something lighter for now, make sure you're cozy..

She grabs your cloak, it instinctively pulls away.

Opera: I just want to clean it-

Charon: I can't take it off anymore..

Opera: Wait, what do you mean?

Charon: It's become part of me.

You can tell she's trying really hard not to make a face.

Opera: Can I take a look?"

Charon: Mm...

She gently grabs the cloak, examining it carefully. Paige takes a peek as well.

Opera: Think you see something?

The sheet ghost gives a little nod and whispers something into her ear.

You can faintly make out some noise, they're audible...

Charon: What did she say?

Opera: Uh...  looks like a membrane? Like bat wings.

Charon: In other words-

Opera: This place did something to you...

Charon: Pocket always does ever since I killed Styx.

Opera:... Were there other things?

Charon: Mm... had issues with physical development as a kid. Fiend body was soft, fluid, unstable around the limbs.

Opera: Right, the braces. Never stopped needing them...

Charon: Never, because they melded to me.

Opera:... Wait, what?

Charon: Fiends are capable of rooting in materials to aid in healing and replacing chunks after fights. Usually pieces of things like wood, coral, bone, other living beings are used for that. Metal braces are a trick fiends use to help form parts that are unstable because truly inorganic material tends to be rejected.

Opera: And yours latched on?

Charon: became part of me, the inner core of the gauntlet became part of my own body like raw muscle. The other layers that protect them on the other hand are not. One layer was growing with me and the rest was becoming too tight to bare. We had to go with a modular shift, something where I can adjust and replace the shell's parts as needed and on the fly. It was difficult. It provided much needed stability but its hard on a body to carry all that extra weight, have plates rattling against you, risk exposure to heat and cold turning against you quickly.

Opera: I didn't know that...

Charon: You haven't been around in a long time, couldn't have.

Opera: And your eyes...

Charon: Likely another change. Whatever merging with Styx did to me has caused me to further and further distance physically from those around me.

Opera: Other people know, right?

Charon: The folks who need to obviously; Grandma Erica, Geezer, the Blancs.. not really a big list admittedly. Couldn't hide it if I wanted too, they'd see it themselves day to day.

Opera: I mean its important, should let the rest of the team know too.

Charon: Mm... I tend to bring a cane around to help me with long walks but it's not very ideal in a place where you'll be fighting so constantly. I left it back home..

Opera: Yeah I saw you using that earlier... maybe Anura can help?

Charon: We can ask, worst case scenario I could pry around Styx's place... suppose it is my castle now at this point. Feels wrong.

Opera: Every good knight needs a castle to protect, right?

Charon: I suppose..

Opera: Think we should get you leaned up first though, get you some new duds, check in on Rook honestly they seem pretty bushed..

Charon: They did good work today, they need this more than I do...

Opera: You both can have time to relax. You got into what, 4 different sword fights in a couple of days before jumping in here? 4 where you got beat down pretty hard...

Charon: I won the ones that mattered...

Opera: I know.. really appreciate you coming in clutch...

Charon: Geezer could've had it in the bag frankly. Bucket was never going to go all out against someone needed for the job. Erica prepped Geezer to take down any one of us, she's got a lot of faith in him for a reason.

Opera: Yeah... should maybe ask Mercury to make sure he doesn't bite more than he can chew up there. Between Bucket and Styx?

Charon: And Zana...

Opera: Really? I mean I know she's got issues with stress and all but-

Charon: She did shoot him on accident day one.

Opera: Yeeeah. Loose definition of accident..

Charon: And she's shot him on purpose before.

Opera: I mean Plat's there to anchor her, he seems really nice.

Charon: He is, you two need to go out for a day while you're here.

Opera: Yeah?

Charon: The Keith stories...

Opera: Who's Keith?

Charon: You'll have to find out... can you do me a big favor while you're up actually?

Opera: Sure thing.

Charon: Can you check on Rook?

Opera: Mmhmm, just a sec..

She steps out of the room.

You feel at ease, there's something-

You overhear talking.

Anura: Is that your friend outside?

Opera: Hmm? What do you mean-

Anura: I see another proxy out there.

Opera:.. What? Who's- jesus christ...

Anura: Should I go talk to them-

Opera: You're going to stay here.

Anura: Please don't pull out a firearm in my home-

Opera: It's being handled outside.

You hear the door slam open.

No time for rest just yet..

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

???: Please put the weapon down...

Opera: Anura, you know them at all?

Anura: Like I said, I assumed they were with you. I don't gauge any hostility from them and their appearance here seems... deliberate?

???: I'm here looking for someone but if they don't want to be found-

Opera: Who?

???: A dog and a proxy. Are you a friend of theirs?

The snake tilts their head at Opera.

She tries her best to maintain a poker face.

???: Mm.. can I at least pass along a request?

Opera: Keep it on point-

You step in, you've heard enough.

You can feel Rook trailing behind you.

Charon: You can tell me yourself.

Opera gives you a look.

Charon: I'll be fine. So?

The snake gives you a nod.

???: I heard you've got the Book in a bunch, screaming their heads off for the past day.

Charon: They call themselves that?

???: Suppose so, you'd know more than I do. Think you the devil.. don't think I can see it.

Charon: Makes me more of a candidate, no?

???: Depends, are you?

Charon: On a good day maybe. So?

???: Suppose I want to know your secret, lots of folks in my village do. You willing to make a stop by? You can bring anyone you want..

Mar: What's your bid?

You were surprised, Rook seemingly switched out while you weren't looking.

Charon: How'd you get here?

Mar: Just.. figured you could use a little help. Others are bushed and new guy's a little shy about showing their face.

Charon: New guy? As in a fourth?

Mar: Mm...

The snake looks Mar up and down.

???: You have more than one?

Charon: Not exactly-

Mar: Fractured, one proxy body with four selves...

???: Got a few multiproxies but never seen that play out.

Mar: Can we get a few names? Introductions feel due..

Mar steps up and offers the snake a armless courtesy

The snake's cheeks turned red.

???: Dither, and you might be?

Mar: Mar Judgment. Charon here is my partner in crime.. yours?

Dither: No, mine's been long gone... all of us at home are in the same boat.

Mar: I'm sorry to hear that...

Dither: You're fine, better to fill you in ahead.

Opera: You said there's a whole town?

She lowers her gun.

Dither: Mmhmm! A couple hundred of us living there, managed to piece it together pretty nice I think. We could set you up with bed and breakfast too if you need to stay the night.

Anura: Realistically you would have to, too late to spend a significant amount of time there and make it back safely. Night's are rather difficult wen you have a target on your head..

Dither: That's why I figured I'd offer.

Charon: And what do you want from me in particular? Don't go seeking out another man's devil without a deal in mind.

Dither: Wanna wait til we get back to fill you in fully but truth be told, we got a common enemy and you're especially good at putting them in the dirt.

Charon: You need knight?

Dither: We need a hero, up to task?

You look over at Opera.

Opera: I'm game. Gramps?

Anura: I could use the trek.

You turn back toward the snake. Mar gives you a shoulder nudge.

She wants you to help her go in for the kill.

Charon: I'll see what I can do. Any chance to know you a little more when we get there?

Dither: I'm not all that interesting..

Mar: I'm sure that's not true. With a face like that you've got a few stories, maybe over a nice brunch?

Dither: I can't commit to much right now but... maybe when the dust's settled?

Their tail lightly swishes around.

Mar: Keep a open mind.

Dither: Absolutely...

Paige makes a squeaky little cackle from Opera's shoulder.

She squishes the sheet ghost's head down

Opera: Be nice..

Dither: I mean it's not wrong..

Mar: It's fine, I like a little honesty. Says a lot about a person-

Anura: If I could politely interrupt, we should make arrangements to travel soon. Daytime is burning away and if it's alright I'd like to give my grandchildren a little privacy when they um...

He gestures to you, Mar, and Dither.

Anura: It's sweet but..

Charon: No you have a fair point. Mar?

Mar: Grandchild...

Charon: Aye.

Anura: Is.. that a big deal?

Mar: Don't get acknowledged by family much in such regard...

Anura: You're family too as far as I'm concerned but.. if you'd prefer something else-

Mar: No, I quite like that. Grandpa Anura?

Anura: Yes?

Mar: I'm ready to go whenever I think.  

Opera: Same.

Anura: I'll grab your stuff and then lock up proper then, don't wait for me.

Dither: It's no big issue-

Anura: Just trust me when I say I'll catch up. I'm a bad mouse but a master rat.

The snake looks at you with a confused expression.

Charon: Don't know either.. you heard him then.

The snake starts making way, Mar leaning on their shoulder.

A town of proxy...