Masa con Papas: Proxy's Memory

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

THE MAGICIAN PART 1
CW: None

 
Faster than you can process, you find yourself in a train station standing in front of a stranger with eyes as red as yours. She has a look of surprise but only in the slightest.

Something about her is incredibly familiar.

???: Another kid from nowhere huh?

???: You’re the second one I’ve seen this week. Usually folks show up through one of the gateways. That’s how my grandpa and I did anyway.

???: You might be someone we need right now anyway.

???: Anyway, say something yeah? What’s up?

Her tone is familiar, she couldn’t be…

???: I’m willing to help you out kid, talk to me.

Charon: Kid?

???: You’re a kid ain’t you? Until I get a name I’m gonna keep calling you that.

Charon: Charon, Charon Judgment.

???: Seriously? I guess you did look kind of familiar actually…

Charon: Oh god, are you saying…

???: I’ll let you finish.

Charon: Is your name Erica..?

???: Bingo, hit the nail on the head.

Erica: Erica Judgment. I can’t say I was ready to meet a future boy like that… Guessing you know me at some point?

Charon: Absolutely, you’re… wait can I-

Erica: Don’t say anything about the future, I don’t wanna know too much and then watch you disintegrate out of reality you know? Gotta say though I can absolutely see the resemblance.

Erica: Also gotta say you’re absolutely green if you just have your proxy out like that.

Charon: My proxy?

Erica: That ghost behind you, you know what that is right?
 

You look over. A tall mesh of rose and metal hovers behind you with a watchful aura. It parrots your little movements with a nonchalant look about it.

Erica: That is yours right?

Charon: I.. I guess so. Didn’t have one before I don’t think though….

Erica: Could be this world, it does weird things like that to folks. It’s got a pretty look going on so that’s promising.

Charon: You think so?

Erica: Yep. These things are supposed to be manifestations of inner self and potential and all and yours looks warm as a light.  If you just got it like this that means you’re hella off to a good start.

Charon: I guess so.

Erica: You should probably give it a name. Something that sounds strong you know? Giving your proxy a name is good luck they say.

Charon: Oh god I got no clue… Um….

Erica: Just go with your gut.

Something strong…

Something cool…

Extreme is a pretty cool word.

But… you want to also give a sense of endurance and wit.

You have no idea how long you’re going to be here so…..

Charon: Extreme Retention.

Erica: Going hard off the bat huh?

Charon: Is… is that too much?

Erica:  Nah, that’s perfect. Knew a kid who discovered his and went pretty hard. Called it Sixth Ranger. Uh…

Erica: Actually, you might be who he was looking for. Weird rabbit boy with long hair? Said he was with his cousin at home and suddenly woke up here. Called his hair pretty and he got offended.

Charon: Geezer?!

Erica: Yeah! He stuck around in town, decided to relax at the library while me and my grandpa quested out here. You know how it is?

Charon: He’s safe then?

Erica: Yeah, should be. He’s in a part of town where the church’s stranglehold isn’t too bad.

Charon: The church?

Erica: Yeah, we got a lot to fill you out on. We should probably find my grandpa first though.

Charon: Mm! I’ll help you out. What’s he look like?

Erica: Tall, big hair, has a couple of horns on one side of his head? I mean they’re technically mandibles but…

Charon: I can help out with that.

Erica: Nice. Walk with me and I’ll catch you up on stuff. There’s a lot you gotta learn if you wanna survive in this world. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

THE MAGICIAN PART II
(CW: Mention of Cults)
 

Erica: So, things to catch you up on.

Erica: This isn’t the world you started off in, some kind of weird mish mash pocket world made of pieces of others.

Charon: So sort of a chimera of parts from different places?

Erica: Kinda, yeah. You know what an angel is, kid?

Charon: Bit of a contested thing, supposedly they’re big entities that jump between time and space right? They abduct and replace things quietly without people noticing a lot of the time.

Erica: Mm. This place has one and is widely agreed to be the origin of it. One with a bit of weird behavior frankly.

Charon: What makes it so weird?

Erica: It’s a hoarder. Hoarding angels aren’t exactly a thing that’s been documented before but this one is just stockpiling things in a pocket world and playing ant farm. It just pops in and out to drop stuff up, stir around, and goes back out.

Charon: Is that how you got here?

Erica: Yep, me and my grandpa were out in the woods when something started making our radio go screwy. Grandpa had a bad vibe right away so we tried to duck in the basement but before we could it just.. warped us here.

Erica: Now we’ve been stuck here for a couple of weeks trying to make the most of what we can.

Erica: Place is hell cursed though, ain’t a fan of the folks who’ve taken charge.

Charon: What’s up with them.

Erica: A lot honest. They claim to be a church for the sake of giving others hope but it’s really just a scheme to line pockets and get free labor in hopes of “ascending”.

Charon: Ascending?

Erica: That’s what they call it. It’s honestly kind of some body horror though. You’ll see what I mean when we get to town.

Charon: Noted.

Erica: Anyway we found a few groups who are free of their control but it’s getting harder for them. Cult actively punishes anyone who wants to live outside of their law or wants out of the pocket.

Charon: How exactly do you power grab in a place like this?

Erica: Control multiple vital resources and own plenty of muscle really, same way it usually works with these folks.

Erica: Tell you what though, whoever goes in all the way comes out super different.

Erica: Can’t blame a lot of folks for taking their offers, when you’re desperate enough you do what it takes to survive but…

Erica: I dunno, it all rubs me wrong.

Charon: I get you. We got a bit of a cult problem back in my home… I’m guessing since we’re related though it’s the same bunch.

Erica: Spit?

Charon: Spit.

Erica: Yeah… can’t say I’m a fan of her either but at least I can avoid her fine and if one of them shows up on my lawn a shotgun will fix things pretty fast you know?

Charon: Mm.

Erica: Course I get the feeling you’ve never had to do that yourself.

Charon: No, not really.

Erica: For the best….

After a long walk down the seemingly endless train station, you find a tall insect-like man standing at it’s end.

You recognize him, it couldn’t be…he reminds you of a monster from a family fairy tale you read..

He has a very gentle look to him.

Erica: Grandpa!

The spidery figure turns toward the two of you, a little smile at Erica and a look of confusion at you. You approach.

???: Who’s this? Did you find another lost one?

Erica: Sure did, he spawned directly in front of me!

???: Did he come through an angel hole?

Erica: Nope! Just kind of showed up?

He focuses his attention directly on you.

???: The resemblance… are you a child of Judgment?

You give him a nod.

Charon: I am. And I guess you’re…

???: Arabis.

Charon: The original Judgment… just like the fairy tales. You’re here?

Arabis: I never left! I’m surprised you’ve never seen me before… and I feel reluctant claiming that title, there’s others who could’ve taken it up just as well..

Charon:  No… never mentioned once that you were alive so long.

Arabis: Mm, well here I am! Tell me your name child?

Charon: Charon, Charon Judgment.

Arabis: Charon. Do you have anyone with you/

Charon: No, but I’m looking for my cousin…

Erica: The rabbit who we left back in town, the two of them seem to have been both sucked here together but landed at different points.

Arabis: Ahh… I can take you there, I’m already on the way to town.

Erica: We left him a communicator actually. We’re a little out of radius but once we’re on the train we’ll be close enough to tell him to meet up with us.

Charon: You left him alone?

Arabis: It was in a safe area, he’ll be fine so long as he doesn’t stray out.

Erica: A nerd like him? You know he wouldn’t

Arabis: That’s uncalled for…

Charon: He always read more jock to me.

Arabis: He’s quite bookish from what I’ve seen. Anyway, we can cover your fare and take you back to him.

Charon: Really? That’s not too much?

Erica: You’re family right? Gotta stick together.

Arabis: It should be arriving soon, the train. What do you say?

You give a nod.

Charon: I’m down.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The Magician: Reversed
CW: None

Styx: Must’ve been quite exciting, meeting so much family so suddenly. 

Styx: If I recall, the day before this it was practically just you and your Grandmother, yes?

Charon: Mm… I have to say I didn’t anticipate you to be interrupting my memories like this.

Charon: But I really should’ve.

Styx: I’m surprised I’m still here. To be frank with you though, I myself may just be a memory as well. 

Charon: I’ll be honest, I’m getting really tired of the ambiguity.

Styx: I’ll phase out soon enough. I’ve sensed something of interest.

Charon: What would that be?

Styx: There’s a visitor probing you for info, looking for something more. 

Charon: Esperanto?

Styx: Likely, if that’s even their true name. Whatever method it’s using, I can detect others. 

Styx: They may not trust anyone.

Charon: Mm… 

Styx: We can’t converse too long or it’ll notice something’s off but… well…

Styx: Just keep dreaming as planned and you’ll likely make it through just fine. 

Charon: Planning to do some sleuthing?

Styx: Perhaps, I can’t afford to get caught however. 

Styx: If it knows I’m still here, it’ll erase me on the spot. 

Styx: So if things get messy, I will have to throw it your way. 

Charon: Mm… as always you ask someone else to fight for you.

Styx: In this case it’s your battle too… 
 

Styx: They’re dipping into the memories of everyone else as well. They're looking for something more than just me or you…

Styx: Your friends are caught in this as well.

Charon: I’ll do what needs to be done if what you say is true.

Charon: This truce is temporary though, I want you out when we’re done here. 

Styx: Mm… perhaps. 

Charon: I’m evicting you.
 

Styx: You’d toss a face like this into the street?

Charon: A face you stole. Nasty snake creature.

Styx: I’d say borrowed more than anything. 

Charon: When are you returning it? 

Styx: Hard to say, nobody to give it back to as far as I know. 

Styx: It’s been a long time. 

Charon: You have an answer for everything. 

Styx: And you always want the last word in.

Charon: With someone like you? I have to. 

Styx: Mm… you’re not wrong there. 

Styx: Also do have to state, never commented on it but.

Styx: I’m curious where you’ve got that accent. 

Styx: Do me a favor bruv, say aluminum. 

Charon: …. 

Styx: Silent suddenly? A shrink would have a field day with you I think. Didn’t think our time together would be so…

Styx: Formative? Is that the word?

Styx: I digress. Certainly not the youth from the woods I remember. 

Charon: If it works, it works. 

Styx: It’s a bit of a leap. 

Charon: Harder to get work when you’ve got a tinge of the country in your voice. Learned that the hard way… 

Styx: Unfair isn’t it? One too many soft consonants and your opportunities dwindle. 

Charon: Can’t say I like it. 

Styx: Mm… well that’s left me satisfied I think.

Styx: We’re pushing our luck, I’ll go and investigate. You just continue what you were doing for now.

Styx: When the time comes, I’ll call you over. 

Charon: I don’t like where this is going if I’m honest. 

Styx: You won’t! But you have little choice in the matter.

Styx: Anyway, good luck to you. Hopefully we’ll both make it out of here intact.

Charon: Can’t say I feel the same. 

Styx: Harsh but understandable…

Styx: See you soon.

Charon: Mm… 
 

THE HIGH PRIESTESS
CW: None

 

You’re back.

Where were you again?

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You’re riding in the train with your time displaced family.

It’s as fresh as it was yesterday.

Erica: So you ‘re obviously some kind of future kid right?

Charon: I guess so.

Erica: And I get the sense you know how I am down the line. That means we’ll make it out of this alive for sure.

Arabis: Perhaps.. Though a few things to consider here.

Erica: What’s that?

Arabis: For starters, it is difficult to say if it’s our future or another’s. He could very much be more of a what if than a what will come.

Erica: Yeah but like… look at us.

Charon: I guess the resemblance is there….

Arabis: Even then, he might be related to another you rather than the specific you here.

Arabis: Regardless, we shouldn’t meddle too much in each other’s lives outside of here.

Arabis: There’s a good chance we’ll have to purge our own memories of him after we’re out of here should too much future animation make its way through.

Charon: I mean if I messed up I’d be unpersoned by now, right?

Arabis: That's also why I find it more likely you’re a what if rather than our future descendant. Which means your version of us is possibly doing the same thing with another you…

Charon: Well… we’ll take care of each other no matter what.

Erica: I mean yeah, family is family.

Arabis: And lucky you’ve got your new friend there.

You look over at the tall floral figure you’ve manifested merely moments ago.

Erica: Yeah, fancy that you and your… brother?

Charon: Cousin.

Erica: Right. Lucky that your proxies kinda just showed up as soon as you got here. Being is a angel scorched hellscape awakens all sorts of stuff but it usually takes some time.

Arabis: It’s quite solid for one your age too. Proxies attached to children like yourself are usually less defined and more… wispy?

Erica: I’d say more of a blob of colors but yeah.

Arabis: How long have you been meddling in witchcraft?

Charon: I mean I’ve always been a fan but only really started getting into it a couple of years ago. Wasn’t allowed to go to town alone til I was 12.

Arabis: Your caretaker I’m assuming would go with you?

Charon: Yeah… even then I mostly stayed with a family friend and her kid. Bunch of birds who settled down in town. Apparently they traveled a lot before then…

Erica: The Blancs?

Charon: Mm..

Erica: Used to play games with them all the time. We’d hang out with some cola and chicken and spend all night doing long sessions. Nice to know they’re doing good… and that our families are still friends.

Arabis: Mm… you’re probably pushing what you’re allowed to ask and answer so I must insist you stop before we see a time paradox before our eyes.

Erica: Ah yeah… sorry. Anyway, that proxy. Does it do anything yet?

Charon: Um… yeah I think? How does it work…

Arabis: Imagine its arm as your arm.

Charon: Okay…

Arabis: Let yourself feel that… think of it as part of you.

You get a vein cutting chill through your body.

Erica: Let yourself feel the first motion that comes to mind, don’t worry about anything else.

Your hand feels like it’s digging through cold wet clay suddenly.


Charon: That’s weird…

Erica: Means it’s working.

Charon: What is that?

Arabis: Just keep going.

Your fingers burrow deep into the sensation until you clash with something sturdy and metal. It’s a handle..

Charon: I’ve got something….

Arabis: Open your eyes kid…

You do so. The proxy’s hand has torn open a rift in the air around you and dug its hand in deep. Glassy geometry surrounds both you and your rose new friend depicting windows into less stable realities. You’re spooked for a moment, they start to flicker and crack.

Erica: Relax kid, just keep doing what you’re doing.

Arabis: Mm. You’re almost there.

You can see the object on the other side of the rift. You grab the handle and pull it out with a hard yank.

Out of the glass panel comes a lance, small enough to carry with one hand. The proxy reaches out to pass it over.

Arabis: There you go…

Erica: It makes.. Weapons?

Charon: That’s good right?

Arabis: I’d say so personally, yes.

Erica: Feels like it should do more than that for how strong it looks…

Arabis: I’d say it’s too early to call. A Proxy’s abilities are rarely what they initially seem. Besides, an arm on your beck and call is frankly always useful in a place like this.

Erica: That’s true, folks always scrambling for ways to defend themselves.

Arabis: It’ll be good for defending yourself and Geezer. Anyway we’ll arrive at the library soon enough.

Erica: Get comfy til then. Maybe think of a name for your friend for a bit.

 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The High Priestess Part II
Cw: None

 The three of you eat lunch during your ride and talk about mostly nothing. Arabis sets you up with something to wear over your PJs so you won’t stand out on the streets as much.


A bright red cloak with a good pair of witching glasses.

You’re attached to it pretty quickly, you think it’s cool…

You’ve never left your hometown, much less been on a train so while you don’t want to say it, it’s all very exciting for you.

Admittedly not the circumstances you’ve wanted to do this in but the start of an adventure for sure.

You watch the view out the window, the sights so surreal and different. A big city, hills, and a whole lot you’d never see in the small woodland covered town you’ve spent your whole life in.

Erica tells you that she’s in the same boat herself, though she’s “Already had enough of city folk” in the few weeks she’s been here.
 

Eventually your ride ends up at the station, the patchwork of tiles and metal chunks making up the roof under the hazy red sky.

Arabis: Here’s our stop, are you children holding up alright?

Charon: I think so.

Your legs are a little wobbly standing up afterward but you manage your footing.

Erica: Craving air, got a little motion sick that time.

The tall spider offers a hand to both of you. The three of you head your way out quickly.

Arabis: Mm.. we’ll get our rest soon enough.

Erica: Yeah, could use some sleep after all that honest.. What’s the plan after this? Find an Inn? Dinner?

Arabis: I’m going to have Mercury take you two kids back to the library to see Geezer. Have a errand or two to handle myself.

Erica: You’re gonna leave us with the rabbit?

Arabis: She has a name… but yes.

Arabis: Just while I handle an errand briefly. I’d take you two but I was requested to be alone.

Charon: We just met and you’re going off already?

You give him the saddest eyes you can.

Arabis: I’m very old child, I’ve known the time before that look existed..

Arabis: I will not be moved so easily… and I assure you that you are going to be in good hands.

Arabis: Speaking of, where is she…. Did we arrive too early?
 

You look over in the distance and see a white rabbit with an oversized weapon in one hand.

She carries it like a toy. You can’t help but wonder if it’s even real. There’s not a single sharp edge on it’s ladder-esque blade.

Charon: Is that who you’re talking about?

Arabis: Yes she is.

Arabis gives her a wave immediately.

She waves back with her free hand.

Mercury: Hey! Here like you asked me to be! How many refugees you manage to find?

Arabis: Only the one, this child here..

He points to you.

Mercury: Yo! Love the hood. Got a lot of style for a kid.

Her eyes are hard to make out under her mess of slimy bangs. What little glance you can get is dissonant.. There’s some other presence behind her otherwise warm smile.

Mercury offers you a hand. You awkwardly return the gesture.

Mercury: Gotta teach you how to shake properly. People get weirdly heated over that. What’s your name?

Charon: Charon Judgment.

Mercury: Ah!

She looks up at Arabis.

Mercury: More family, huh?

Arabis: Unfortunately, I don’t particularly like how frequent this is becoming.

Mercury: I’m sure it’ll work out. You want me to take him back?

Arabis: Soon, and Erica as well.

Erica: I wanna stay…

Arabis: I’ll return soon enough as I said. We’ll catch up over dinner but for now I think we’ve picked up too much heat in the eye of the local church.

Erica: Promise you’ll at least stay safe, I don’t want you coming home all hurt again.

Arabis: I won’t, I assure.

Arabis looks at you directly.

Arabis: The two of you have a job to take care of each other right now. I don’t want anyone leaving the other behind.

Arabis: Though we’ve known each other for only so little time, protecting one another is the Judgment way. I assure you that you will be in good hands for the next few hours. Besides, Geezer’s been looking for you and you can’t leave him waiting long.

Charon: Guess you’re right. Don’t get hurt out there.

Mercury: He’ll be fine, guy is a bit of a folklore hero type and has done a lot to prove it.

She squats down to whisper.

Mercury: Plus if you stick with me I’ll show you how to use a knife. Stuff’s essential around here.

Arabis: I can hear that but… yes that would be good under the current circumstances.

Charon: Wait, you’re both really okay with that?

Erica: This place is dangerous, if you’ve never been in a fight before you’re going to need to learn how.

Erica: And I can tell with just one look you’re green as a pepper.

Charon: I guess I can give it a go.

Mercury: That’s the spirit. Anything before we go our separate ways for now?

Arabis: Mm… child has a proxy, make sure he knows how to make the best of it. Make sure he keeps his hood up too. While he’s difficult to identify at first glance, he’s very much a fiend if you look too closely.

Mercury: Ah…

She gets a good look at your face.

Mercury: Glowing eyes and a couple of markings but otherwise yeah, he passes  from a distance.  We’ll be careful.

Arabis: I’ll be back just before dark. The three of you stay safe.

Erica: You too! Don’t take too long!

Mercury gives you a little pat on the shoulder.

Mercury: Come on, we got plenty to cover.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

You're taken through many alleyways, avoiding the main streets as much as possible.

You've never been in a place like this, every sight and sound you make out so alien to you. Your first time away from the woods you grew up in really.

Mercury is mostly quiet, only on occasion grabbing your wrist to nudge you the right direction. You're a little distracted. 

Erica gives you an assuring look every once in a while to make sure you're okay. 

Eventually you make it to a building, one that's taller than anything you've ever seen. It doesn't look like much until you're brought inside, a maze of bookshelves and old décor. There's more people here than you've ever seen at once. 

Erica: You haven't said a word, what's up?

Charon: A lot to take in...

Erica: Feel you. Great though isn't it?

Charon: Yeah! Bit busy though.

Erica: You get used to it.

Charon: Geezer is here right?

Erica: Should be.

Mercury: He's probably in the study room, he’s been going through books like a maniac for the past week. Kid’s adapted to this like a pro honest.

Erica: He's A huge nerd. 

You got that impression.

Charon: What kind of stuff you got here? Like, books and all.

Erica: Bit of everything I think. Feel free to look through some stuff yourself too! We keep as much handy information as we can here for folks to soak in.

Mercury: Arm yourself with knowledge and all. We gotta protect ourselves however we can from the local rule and being as independent as possible is a crucial part.

You give the two a nod.

Charon: Got a lot to catch up on..

Erica: You’ll be fine, you give me the same vibe as Geezer.

Charon: What's that mean?

Erica: Bookish, type of kids who do good on a test you know? Think you're a bit more soft spoken though, not a bad thing.

Charon: Maybe...

Erica: Gonna give you both time alone I think, don't wanna distract.

Charon: Will you both be here still after?

Erica: Yeah, at least I will.

Mercury: Same probably unless something comes up.

Mercury: When you’re done, we can gather with the others and eat something alright? Hopefully your grandpa will be back before supper gets cold.

Charon: Mm. I'll be back soon.

Mercury: Of course, kid. Do what you have to do.

You take a deep breath and go through the halls toward a little section ahead where the towers of books wrap around a clearing filled with tables and stain glass walls.

It doesn’t take long to spot him. You give him a wave.

He takes a moment to process, eyes widen as he recognizes you.

Charon: Geez!

Geezer: Charon?! Holy shit, they found you?!

Charon: Guess so!

He runs up to you.

Geezer: Oh my god! Legit thought we lost you!

Charon: What do you mean?

Geezer: When that weird ass demon showed up you made some kind of deal with it and just vanished, you know? Asked it where you went and it dragged me in too but when I woke up you weren’t there!

Charon: I’ll be honest, had no idea it could do something like that…

Geezer: Like, fuck…

Charon: I’m just glad you’re okay… sounds like you’ve been here a bit though.

Geezer: I’m managing fine, been researching non-stop. Looking for a way to break out of here.

Charon: I’m not even sure how this happened.

Geezer: I got a pretty good idea myself actually.

Charon: Oh?

Geezer: You used a pact radio, yeah?

Charon: Mm! Made it myself with some guides from the local witch shop.

Geezer: Right. So turns out those transmissions are vulnerable to hijacking real easy. You just wanted to talk to a ghost but you had no idea where it’d come from.

Charon: Right.

Geezer: But now we’re here, in this other world with cults and angels and all that right?

Charon: Mm.

Geezer: So I don’t know how filled in you are on all this, but this place is hella cursed. Big ass angel is sucking stuff up from other places and dragging them in here.

Geezer: Think what happened, it jacked into our transmission and pulled us in right?

Charon: But… we talked to the ghost, no?

Geezer: Yeah but, a ghost on its own can’t really do that.

Geezer: Ghost can however muck about with the transmission.

Geezer: Odds are it knew about the angel and brought it directly to us.

Charon: Why us though?

Geezer: Who knows. Apparently there’s some algorithm to it.

Geezer: Big thing is a disproportionate number of folks dragged through are rabbits and fiends right?

Geezer: And your family’s got tons of fiends including you.

Charon: And you’re a rabbit… I think?

Geezer: Yeah.

Charon: Why would it do that to us though?

Geezer: I dunno. Get the sense that there’s some sort of scheme going on.

Geezer: Would be hella cautious if it shows up again.

Charon: Mm..

Geezer: Tell me, you got a proxy?

Charon: Yeah!

Geezer: Figured. Seems like most folks dragged in here end up with one. Apparently when you’re spirited away like that it kinda just happens.

Geezer: Bonus if you made a contract like you probably did. We’re in a heck of a mess…

Charon:  Sorry…

Geezer gives you a pat on the shoulder.

Geezer: It’s whatever, we’re gonna get out of here.

Geezer: And we’re gonna help everyone else too. There’s a big plan cooking up to get people home.

Charon: Is there?

Geezer: Yeah. That’s what Erica’s told me and looking into it? Super possible but you gotta be smart. She can fill you in on things.

Charon: Mm..

Charon:.. Have you been okay? Like..

Geezer: What do you mean?

Charon: You’ve been here for a good while..

Geezer: Yeah, I made it work.

Geezer: Community here is nice actually. Still gotta avoid the Church’s wrath but people are careful around these parts.

Charon: What’s the deal with them anyway?

Geezer: Cult, really worships angel stuff hardcore. Tons of iconography and fear mongering around them. They recruit people, make them give up everything if they want to ladder up in the ranks.

Geezer: Mind, body, soul. Gotta dedicate all that but… they also control most of this place’s resources you know?

Geezer: So folks who are tired of the struggle will give in.

Geezer: They say those who prove themselves all the way though are given immortality. Scary honestly..

Charon: Yeah?

Geezer: Yeah. They made a system of wrangling everything and everyone valuable they can in mass when the angel dumps stuff into this world. Means they got the best supplyline and dug up all sorts of horrors from beyond.

Charon: Why don’t we just snipe them then? Take the stuff before they do?

Geezer: Hard to, they’ve got machinery and muscle and all that. People just gather whatever they don’t bother with.

Geezer: They shut down any competition with them too which makes it hella hard.

Geezer: Everyone hates them at this point.

Charon: Mm…

Geezer: We’re in the part of town that they haven’t been able to really lock down though, we’re safe for now.

Geezer: Glad I found you though, really was worried you were gone.. What happened?

Charon: Not sure? Guess I just got warped in after you did.

Charon: It’s my first day here…

Geezer: I can tell. You’ll get used to it.

Geezer: And like, if Erica is here then we have to find our way out eventually.

Geezer: She’s our grandma in the future so…

Charon: Yeah.

Geezer: She ever mention any of this to you?

Charon: Never. Scares me thinking about that.

Geezer: Mm. Means she knows something.

Geezer: Anyway I’m gonna put my reading down for the day, show you around and get you familiar with the people here. Sound good?

Charon: Sounds good.

Geezer: And don’t worry about what happened earlier, okay? We got this.

Charon: Really think so?

Geezer: Yeah. We’re gonna make it out just fine.


 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

THE EMPRESS
(CW: Mention of Cults)

[image description: Young Charon in a long red hooded cloak walks through the streets of a makeshift town, gaze turned toward a strange masked being passing by in a casual way.]

 Erica: We got a little time before Grandpa Arabis comes back so I’m gonna take you around town for a bit, hope you don’t mind walking. Nowhere specific, just get you to scope it out. Feel the life in motion. We did the same for Geezer so only fair.

You didn't get much chance to look at the area around while you were quickly walked toward the library...

It's bigger than anything you've ever seen.

You're a little intimidated, if you're quite honest.

Erica: You ready?

Charon: As much as I can be...

Charon: Usually go out with a cane but I can try my best to catch up.

Erica: A cane? Like for walking?

Charon: Mm.. Prosthetic limbs, had a birth defect growing up because of some fiend stuff I think… I can walk around but it’s hard sometimes..

Erica: Ah, yeah that happens with hybrids sometimes. We can keep it short. My dad had some troubles like that too… missing a leg.

Erica: Course our kind can slot in parts pretty easy.. with some caveats.

Charon: Blood, right?

Erica: Blood. You gotta be drinking blood regularly. Doing so will cause the uh… your body will sort of fill in the blanks? Could make parts out of random wood and rock chunks if you know what you’re doing and it’ll function like the real thing.

Charon: Mm..

Erica: Otherwise you’re SOL. Also once you’re on the stuff you tend to get more hungry and the fiend part of you becomes more active.

Charon: Heard about that, neighbors of mine told me that one of my relatives had issues with it. Was always hungry . Took forever to get back to weaning off of it.

Erica: That’s the trick, isn’t it? Really hard to get your hands on it without tons of money or willing donors, a bit tricky to store and maintain a fresh quality for it, you know how it is.

Erica: My sister back home says you could probably find a town willing to pay you in blood in exchange for protection. Honestly not a bad idea..

Charon: Your sister?

Erica: Yep,the younger sibling

Charon: What’s her name?

Erica: Ali. She’s like you a bit I think, soft but with gutsy eyes.

Charon: What’s that mean?

Erica: Like… you look bookish but I feel like if it came down to it you could get in a real scrap. She’s like that a bit. Maybe a bit more the latter but not really something she wanted.

Erica: Both of us are aiming to keep the family business running and all you know?

Erica: Don’t think she’s super fond of it but the idea that she wouldn’t because she can’t hurts her more.

Charon: I can kinda understand that I guess…

Erica: Yeah. She’s really hard on herself over it but I know she can do whatever she really decides she wants.

Charon: Mm…

Erica: And I’m sure you can too.  Looking at you though, you’re probably a bit indoorsy.

Erica: But I think you could pick it up. You in this too?

Charon: Mmhmm… Maybe. I guess I’m in that same boat too you know? Like… I think I do kinda wanna but..

Charon: Don’t want to not do it because I can’t. I want it to be my choice I guess…

Erica: Mm..

Erica: How much training have you gotten?

Charon: My gr-

Charon: Pardon um…

Charon: My caretaker’s never really pushed me but I dunno..

Charon: I feel like it might be good for me.

Erica: Yeah: How’s that?

Charon: See the world, meet people…

Charon: I guess I just want to know some things really.

Erica: Like?

Charon: Hmm… I mean I can’t say too much.

Charon: Time paradoxes and that…

Erica: Yeah, fair enough.

Charon: But… maybe being a knight helps?

Charon: If I can go anywhere, I can find out what I want to know.

Charon: THat’s how it should work at least…

Erica: Yeah, in theory I guess.

Erica: Hope I figure out the answers for myself…

Erica: Studying for the job honestly feels like a curse sometimes…

Charon: Mm…

Erica: According to my folks, it literally is.

Charon: The family curse…

Erica: Anyone who takes the mantle’s destined to fight something beyond what they can understand…

Erica: Crapshot whether you win or not.

Charon: I’d be in danger too?

Erica: Mm.. Maybe. Maybe it’s all phony.

Erica: Wouldn’t sweat it yet though. Maybe this is the worst of it for both of us.

Charon: Would be nice if we just got back safely..

Erica: We plan to! At the very least we want to take you and Geezer back first. Still got stuff to do here ourselves…

Charon: You have a plan?

Erica: Yeah. There’s wells to help you get in and out. They’re a little hard to get to and the local church is constantly there when they’re busiest. They’re how this place gets a lot of its resources..

Charon: Do they just snag it up?

Erica: Yeah… they try to keep a grip on everything. This part of town is probably the safest from them just because there’s nothing they think is worth harvesting.

Charon: Really?

Erica: Yeah. We’re far away from any rifts and wells, there’s not really any major industrial nonsense here, and well… to be frank people don’t like them much around these parts.

Erica: Still set up all sorts of propaganda though.

You see signs and monitors above, all sorts of strange iconography on posters around.

Charon: If it’s so far out, how does it run?

Erica: Answer is poorly.

Erica:  A lot of folks have to go deeper into town to get work.

Erica: And we got scavenger teams gathering whatever the cults manage to ignore.

Erica: Luckily we got a train system… no idea how it happened though.

Erica: Place is put together like a bunch of toy blocks slotting in and accidentally making some words…

Charon: I mean… maybe we got lucky?

Erica: No such thing as true luck, but we’ll take what we can get.

Erica: Anyway, whatcha think?

Charon: I mean it’s big.. Maybe a bit too big. Some of these places are so huge…

Erica: Yeah, felt the same way at first.

Charon: Can’t even imagine what a real skyscraper is like…

Erica: We’ll get to see something like that at some point maybe, if you stick here long enough.

Erica: Not that we want any of us to be gone too long..

Charon: Mm….

Erica: Anyway I know a shortcut, we’ll head back. Sounds good?

Charon: Yeah!

You follow along as best you can, surprisingly able to catch up just fine...
Though she keeps an eye on you the entire time... You appreciate it in a way.

You're not sure how she manages to tell anything apart. Even with this world being a patchwork of various other places, every arrow alleyway feels exactly the same to you...

At least until you see something really odd..

Erica: Hey, watch your step there.
 

[image description: Young Charon and Young Erica both take a look into a shady alleyway, their attention caught by something outside of the audience's view]

She stops you abruptly. You take a moment to glance ahead.

It's a lot of glass panels floating about, transparent little oddities like a tv screen. They're much like your own, the kind you'll eventually get more than used to...

Charon: What’s going on there?

Erica: My guess? Bit of weird magic.

Erica: Can’t tell what kind. Looks like a rift but… too controlled for that.

You get a glance of someone injured on the opposite side.

Charon: See someone there…

Erica: Careful, you got no idea who or what's hiding there.

Charon: I know but... I think we should help them out.

A closer look lets you make out a silhouette, someone cat-like in appearance but not particularly tall. Someone around your own age perhaps? They seem like they’re having it rough. Various floating shapes and transparent fragments float about. They warp the world around them like a funhouse mirror.

You take a step toward it.

Erica: What are you planning to do?

Charon: Can’t just leave them there…

Erica: Wait til whatever they’re doing clears out first…

Charon: Really? I mean I guess but...

Erica: Kid please..

Charon: I’ll be fine just…

You reach a hand through.

Erica: Charon!
 

[image description: Charon approaches toward another person on the other side of a rift, the aesthetics of the world shifting from softer to more angular]

The world slides around like a abstract puzzle. The floor becomes a looking glass to someone else’s reality and the walls and sky meld until you can't tell them apart. The cat looks at you with surprise, eyes unsure what to make of you.

Erica watches from the other side, a nervous wreck.

You give her a gesture assuring you're okay.

She gives you a sigh.

You face what's ahead of you.

Charon: Hey… Are you lost?

???:  Not really…

Charon: That’s.. Good.

???: You stepped through…

Charon: I guess…?

???: Did it hurt?

Charon: Not really…

???: Usually it does… this place keeps intruders out…

Charon: Oh…

???: How’d you manage to make it through?

Charon: I just… stepped inside.

Charon: Those little tears, reminded me of the ones I can make.

Charon: I mean.. I’ve made them a couple of times. Don’t really understand…

???: Your power’s like mine..

Charon: Maybe…

Charon: You don’t look like you’re doing good…

???: I’m not…

???:  You?

Charon: Not too bad all things considered? Just got here today.. Like… in this world.

???: Mm…

???: What’s your name?

Charon: Charon…

???: Last name?

Charon: Judgment…

Charon: You?

???: Opera.

Opera: Heard that last name a few times around here… guessing you or someone related to you’s a bit of a troublemaker.
 

[image description: Charon rests on his knees, weapon in hand before a feline humanoid furry who's outfit and own weapon share a number of uncanny similarities. The now angular appearance of the world swarms and overwhelms the surrounding area.]


Opera: Hopefully that’s not you though.

Opera: Cause if it is, you’re in a lot of danger. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

Charon: What do you mean?

Opera: A number of folks with that name seem to be causing a bit of a stir around here.

Opera: Don’t look like a trouble maker though. I mean, I respect it! But..

Opera: I’d lay low.

Charon: Wish it was me but… just got here today.

Charon: Still trying to get used to this really. Not for too long though.

Opera: Planning to get out?

Charon: Soon as I can, me and my family.

Opera:  Can’t blame you, place sucks;.

Opera: Honestly looking at you though, and don’t take this as a bad thing but…

Opera: I can’t see you being a troublemaker. Not enough to cause problems with the church at least. Familiar with them?

Charon: Yeah, got it explained actually. Really that bad?

Opera makes a face at you.

Charon: What do they do?

Opera: Everything. They’ve got access to so much supplies that people are stuck depending on them…

Opera: Plus… they’re able to keep the angel in check. People think they've got some holy magic and jump onboard.

Opera: Anything they get their hands on is property, including people. You join, and anything from limbs to blood to actual souls are treated as stock.

Charon: Scary…

Opera: People are trying to do their best to sort of break it up though…

Charon: You?

Opera: I wish… I’m just trying to get some heat off me.

Opera: Been targeting me for a good bit…

Opera: How’d you get here anyway?

Charon: Uh… summoned a ghost? Told me that someone needed my help so I went for it and well…

Charon: …next thing I knew I was here. You?

Opera: Same? Kind of?

Opera: Was with my friends checking out a recent haunting. We LOVE spooky stuff like that, even if it ends up being fake a lot… people in costumes avoiding taxes or something.

You couldn’t help but laugh a little.

Opera: I’m serious!

Charon: For real?

Opera: Yes! Always the whole “You kids and your darn dog!” rant you know? We weren’t even doing it on purpose, you’re just bad at being ghosts!

Charon: What would make them good ghosts?

Opera: Being dead? I dunno. Anyway it makes the small town life a bit more exciting. Otherwise it’s a lot of sad talks by creeks and not much else.

Charon: I can relate.

Opera: Not surprised, can pick it up on your accent.

Charon: Really?

Opera: Yep. Got a good ear, you’re a country boy…

Opera: ¿Y algo más? Soy curioso….

Charon: ¿Oh?

She smirks.

Opera: ¿Tú me entiendes?

Charon: No.

Opera: Güey…

Charon: Jaja…

Opera:  ¿Estás jugando conmigo?

Charon: Más o menos. Understand you just fine but I’m kinda bad at actually speaking it..

Opera: Yeah… My grandma tries to keep me up to speed but…

Charon: Not really a lot of chances to use it?

Opera: Mmhmm!  So I forget little things. When it comes up it’s like…

Charon: ¿Como se dice….?

Opera: Exactly! And you get looked at like you’re dumb for not remembering!

Charon: Oh my god….. Yeah no my grandma gives me the death stare for it. She’s really good at it…

Opera: Same. Scares me… she’ll be watching one of her novelas when I get back from school and she’ll look over and just… ugh.

Charon: Yeah… love her but I never want to be on her bad side…

Opera: She was some sort of fencer so she’d kick my ass. My famous Grandma Alle, got to compete across 3 continents.

Charon: Mine is a knight, pretty handy with a gun too.

Opera: A knight with a gun….?

Charon: Yes…?

Opera: Aren’t Knights a fairy tale thing? Like, slay the dragon, save the kingdom?

Charon: Maybe a few hundred years ago but… no they’re still around.

Opera: Guess we must not be from the same world then… amazing how much is consistent though. Like…

Opera: We got two languages in common? What are the odds?

Charon: It’s pretty odd, huh?

Opera: Yeah! Feel like if I looked too deep I’d give myself insomnia…

Charon: Same, never stops me from doing it anyway.

Opera: Rabbit holes like that just make me shiver…

Charon: Can’t blame you. So uh…

You look over at her hand. There’s a shadow dangling from it, sinking into the floor a little.

Charon: What’s that you got there?

Opera: This? Oh! Um… Allow me to introduce you!

She pulls it over herself, the shade forming into a large white sheet. She gives it a look over.

Opera: Don’t be shy, say hi!

A little mammal-like head peaks out. It gives you a wave.

Charon: Who’s that?

Opera: My proxy- call him Rebel, he’s been with me forever…

Opera: Just always had him really? Not sure why, usually you gotta work toward it or make a demon pact or something… but I love him very much.

Opera: What about you? What do you got there?

You realize your hand’s been wrapped around something this whole time.

Charon: I’m uh… not sure actually!

Opera: Well, pull it out!

Your fingers dig into the void and yank. A large forked metallic weapon appears.

Charon: Oh yeah… I can do this um… I just got a proxy today and mine can make weapons, I guess? I don’t have the best control of it yet… not even sure where it is either… It’s pretty cool though, right?

Her eyes widen a bit. She seems a bit off…

Opera: Huh…

Charon: You okay?

Opera: Just thinking right now…

Charon: About what?

Opera: Just give me a moment.

Charon: Sorry...

Opera: No just um… one moment?

Your eyes shift away, you don’t know what you did exactly but you’re terrified that you might’ve upset her.

Opera: So… I’ve seen something like that before.

Opera: In the hands of someone kind of bad I guess…

Charon: Ah…

Opera: But I don't think you are! It’s a style of sword that I’ve got bad associations with..

Opera: If you have it though, it’s probably a common thing in some worlds.

Charon: Maybe. Never seen one like that before.

Opera: Ah… huh.

Charon: Product of this weird angel stuff?

Opera: Probably..

Opera: It’s kind of a good look on you. I can tell you’re pretty green but… you look comfortable holding it.

Charon: You think so?

Opera: Mmhmm! Suits you. Anyway, sorry about that, just…

Charon: It’s okay, I was just more worried I hurt you or something…

Opera: Nah… anyway um…

Charon: What’s up?

Opera: I should probably go right now, not good for me to be out in public this long. Gotta find shelter for the night.

Charon: Ah… I mean my friend and I uh..

You point to Erica behind you, she tilts her head in confusion.

Charon: We got a place right now if you need somewhere…

Opera: Maybe… I’ll consider.

Opera: Do want to see you again though, felt nice talking to someone.

Charon: Yeah, of course! When?

Opera: I’ll find you…

The world starts to return to normal.

Opera: Meet you soon!

She vanishes. All that’s left is a dirty alley and Erica behind you.

Erica: Hey kid, you gonna be okay? Couldn’t tell much of what went on…

Charon: Mm? Yeah…. Just made a friend I think.

Erica: You can talk to me about her while we walk back.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

THE EMPEROR PART I
CW: None

You’re back in your castle.

Your beloved proxy keeps you company.

It’s nervous. You offer it a hand.

You comfort it to the best of your ability.

This entire experience fills you with dread and a bittersweet nostalgia but…

It makes you happy to have someone close by right now.

Styx: Personally I think the new proxy suits you.

Styx: Though I have a soft spot for the old one. Perhaps it’ll find its way back.

Charon: Mm… I see you’ve disrupted my dreams again.

Styx: A necessity, one you’ll grow to appreciate.

Charon: If you say so.

Styx: Are you irritated?

Charon: More… hmm. I don’t know how to put it.

Charon: I know what happens next from here.

Charon: I’m not looking forward to reliving it.

Styx: I’m on the same boat myself, for my own reasons.

Charon: I feel like things are a little different going back.

Styx: Retrospective does that.

Charon: Not just that either. My memory is not 1:1 with the emotions I’ve felt in those moments. It feels like people are missing…

Styx: Side effect of exposure to angelic types. They rewrite your past and your future without you really realizing why.

Styx: But you’re a little too self aware, I think. You’ve seen further more than anyone should.

Styx: It hurts me to see that child making friends, because I know he doesn’t get to grow up.

Styx: What lingers in his shell is delusional, a devil clinging onto fragments of the original. 

Styx: Or perhaps in denial? Either way, it’s sweet that you hold so dear a self that no longer exists.

Charon: If you don’t have anything more to do than taunt me, piss off.

Styx: I promise I have some business with you, urgent to address.

Charon: Is that so?

Styx: Looking further in, it’s hard to gauge if we truly have an intruder.

Styx: May be more akin to a curse really.

Charon: Elaborate.

Styx: I can’t find a connection to anyone, even if it’s clearly originating from our earlier encounter with… Esperanto was it?

Charon: Mm. So we’re not being invaded?

Styx: As of now? I can’t immediately confirm that.

Charon: But we’re very much not safe either.

Styx: No.

Charon: What should we do then?

Styx: Personally? Confront them in the morning. Whatever sorcery they inflicted earlier needs to be addressed directly. It’s certainly had a massive effect on your psyche already.

Charon: Mm…

You give the proxy a concerned look. It presses its muzzle against your face.

Charon: It’s… never really behaved like this before.

Styx: Certainly affectionate. Tell me Judgment boy, are you hiding something?

Charon: Does it matter? You can see everything.

Styx: You’d think, but despite being of my own contract your proxy certainly is.

Styx: Or perhaps wearing it right on its sleeve after all..

Styx: Whatever influence I once had on it seems to be gone.

Charon: Does it no longer carry your power?

Styx: No, because that’s been yours for the last decade.

Styx: Struck me down and took my soul for yourself. Frustrating.

Styx: Would be funny if in 100 years you were the one dealing contracts instead.

Charon: I have my doubts.

Styx: You are a fiend, you’ll live to see those days so long as you make no missteps.

Charon: Hmm….

Styx: Up to you really. Maybe in that time I’ll have been reborn. Maybe I’ll strike you down and it can become a cycle of its own.

Charon: I really doubt you’d want to be reborn into this world of all things.

Styx: Mm… I’ve considered it more than you’d think.

Charon: Really? That’s something new.

Styx: I’m very capable of sentiments and attachments. Perhaps that’s why I’ve managed to survive as a fragment in your mind rather than fizzling out altogether.

Charon: I doubt you care about me that much.

Styx: Certainly more than you or I want to admit.

Styx: I know you wouldn’t be talking to me like this if you truly hated me.

Charon: You’re making a massive assumption.

Styx: I don’t think I’m entirely wrong though.

Styx: Tell me, could you forgive me in another life?

Charon: I’d have to think about it, but on principle I’d at least make an attempt.

Charon: Are you planning to die on me?

Styx: Not quite yet, but I do have to move on sooner or later.

Styx: I think I want to be a rabbit next time...

Charon: I can tell. I’ve seen your true form plenty of times and yet you cling to that corpse.

Styx: One I had a complicated relationship with for certain.

Charon: Your old friend.

Styx: My greatest servant.

Charon: You refuse to let his image die.

Styx: Mm… can’t be helped really. I did really care for him but…

Styx: I don’t think I’m capable of being kind or loving in the way most prefer.

Styx: If I’m not getting a strong reaction from someone I genuinely feel unnoticed.

Charon: You must be furious right now then.

Styx: Heartbroken! You’ve become so cold mannered. I’m really disappointed.

Charon: I’m just tired, I’ve had enough of this for a lifetime.

Styx: Mm…

Charon: I am curious about things however.

Styx: Oh?

Charon: I’d like to hear you talk about your feelings, if you wouldn’t mind sharing.

Styx: A tempting proposition..

Styx: As reluctant as I am to say, you’re certainly my second favorite. The bookworm nephew I never had.

Styx: Is nephew the right term actually? I know things can be complicated.

Charon: I’d rather not be seen as any sort of relative but… masculine terminology is acceptable.

Styx: Mm.

Styx: I became very attached to him, my old friend. Did everything within my power to keep him alive, to fulfill my promises so that he could perhaps one day become king.

Styx: Anytime he was on the verge of death I put him back together.

Styx: He never went a day empty handed.

Styx: But… I know he resented me in the end.

Charon: Understandable.

Styx: You’re so cruel…

Charon: I prefer honesty. I am curious though… what was your connection to him?

Styx: Initially? A client in need.. But I think I grew to envy him.

Styx: Grew to envy his capacity to make allies and tough through anything.

Styx: He loved and was loved back… not necessarily always the romantic kind, though there was certainly that too.

Styx: Admittedly you and your friends remind me of him...

Styx: I’d like to show you something, if you’re willing.

Charon: It’s against my better judgment to take an offer from you at this point…

Charon: But with such a rare moment of sincerity I feel I should offer you this moment.

Styx: Thank you..

You look him directly in the eye.

Charon: If you give me any reason to doubt you however, make peace with your preferred god immediately.

Charon: I’ll gut you where you stand.

Styx: Harsh, but merited. Very well then.

Charon: Lead the way.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Charon:  Never seen this room before.

Styx: That’s because this entire castle is a labyrinth of secrets that I’d rather those who wander it find for themselves.

Styx: This place belongs to you now, It’d be your best interest to learn it in and out.

Charon: I’ve done what I can, I just… never realized how extensive it was.

Styx: Of course it is, this place is made of the stone of many worlds and the mettle of thousands.

Styx: While the main facilities are certainly easy to get around, only the truly dedicated can map out the entire thing.

Styx: If you truly are my worthy successor, my greatest opponent, the one who outwit me in the end…

Styx: It shouldn’t take you long.

Charon: Are you saying we’re destined rivals?

Styx: No, you’ve killed me.

Styx: You’ve effectively outplayed me in the ultimate game. You are the new Styx, embrace that.

Charon: I don’t think it’s a name I’d like to claim personally.

Charon: Nor do I want to continue your line of business.

Styx: A pity.

Styx: I wonder how good you would’ve been at keeping to a contract.

Charon: I consider what you did fairly questionable at best and incomprehensibly immoral at worst.

Styx: Even if I never went back on my end of the deal?

Charon: You only kept your end because everything you did was in your favor.

Styx: Hmm…

Styx: It’s true, had to make a profit. Unfortunately our agreement didn’t work out for me in the end.

Styx: Alas. My time is limited, nothing matters anyway.

Styx: I only wish to leave a mark of legacy.

Charon: And how do you propose that?

Styx: By making sure that my usurper is better than me.

You two reach the end of the tunnel. A hall of humanoid figures behind glass cases can be seen going deep in.

Styx: Welcome to my true collection, the proxies of those who came and went.

He gestures to you to walk ahead.

You do so with reluctance, keeping your eyes and ears following the snakey rabbit.

Charon:  You’ve had an awful number of clients.

Styx: Amazing really. Many of them were smarter, faster, better fighters than I’ve ever seen.

Styx: A lot of them like you. Perhaps some more noble, some less but they had a common soul to speak.

Charon: Reincarnation?

Styx: No, I’m sorry to say that you aren’t that special but… you certainly have something about you.

Styx: You’re the one who took me down and claimed my throne, my castle on a hill of dreams.

Styx: What you are now certainly isn’t a dog. I’m not quite sure you’re a fiend either.

Styx: A hodgepodge of other people’s memories and experiences and traumatic affairs... Your friends and family and the horrors you’ve encountered.

Styx: And worse of all, you’re me. The best of me and everyone who borrowed my crown.

Styx: I know you already carry quite a weight with the legacy your tribe and name place on you, so I’m sorry for making it more difficult.

Charon: Don’t get the sense that you are.

Styx: Not entirely so, no… just…

Styx: I suppose I’m curious about you... You have no reason to remain mortal.

Styx: You will live a long life, you have the potential to become more powerful than I ever was...

Styx: You were offered ascension back in that little world you saved. To be its hero, its god, immortal flesh and the finest blade… to create a new place free to mold to your liking.

Styx: Could’ve been the greatest king to ever exist.

Syx: And yet…

Styx: You choose to stay mortal.

Charon: As much as possible for someone like me at least.

Styx: I don’t understand...

Styx: Why did you abandon all that?

Charon: I missed home.

Charon: I missed the moments I had with my grandma.

Charon: Waking up early to talk to her before she heads out to work…

Charon: Splitting some beans and coffee…

Charon: I missed my bed, and going to the bookstore, and the nice family who ran the magic shop.

Charon: I couldn't just give that up I don’t think.

Styx: That’s a disappointingly simple response.

Charon: Don’t believe me?

Styx: I’m just… frustrated really.

Styx: Outdone by a country boy who loves his family.  Ego crushing.

Charon: Do you want an apology?

Styx: Tempting but… I think I’m going to suck it up this time.

Styx: Physically you’re an oddity, a destroyer in the shape of a small dog.

Styx: You have more in common with the angel you knocked down and sooner or later you will likely grow out a halo yourself but…

Styx: Maybe that child never left.

Styx: In your heart, you’re still very much in that moment to this day.

Styx: Perhaps it’s for the best. My climb to surpass my humanity ultimately lead to very little good. Just prolonging the death of many sad swordsmen who were braver than I could ever…

Styx: All these husks left behind…. Soon I may join them.

Styx: I don’t really want to.

Styx: And I certainly don’t want to have to add you to the ones here anytime soon either.

Charon: Don’t plan to.

Styx: You can’t guarantee that… but I get the sense you still have plenty of time left.

Styx: I only fear what’ll happen to your comrades. I have had premonitions about the upcoming heist and I dread that it may be worse than either of us were prepared for…

Charon: We’ll make it work.

Styx: Can you be so sure? Your friends may not share your strength in the end.

Charon: They don’t…

Charon: Because they’re even stronger.

Charon: You are too in your own way I think. Whether I like to admit it or not, I needed you back then.

Charon: And for all the harm you caused me… I couldn’t imagine a world without any of it happening. Without everything I saw, all the people I met.

Charon: So in a way, I should thank you.

Charon: Whether intended or not, many were saved by your scheme in the end.

Styx: ….

Charon: Are you alright?

Styx: Processing. I came expecting nothing but anger and resentment toward me.

Charon: Think I’m too tired for that anymore.

Styx: Mm…

Styx: May I ask you a question?

Charon: Go for it.

Styx: I have no idea how much more time I have left.

Styx: I don’t get the sense it’s very long…

Styx: When my time comes, I hope I get a fresh slate.

Styx: If you ever encounter me in another life, be kind.

Styx: Set me on the right path… It’s a lot to ask for but….

Styx: Maybe I just need it at this point.

Charon: I’ll do my best.

Styx: You promise so easy…

Styx: I feel our meeting is wrapping up for now…

Styx: I have more to talk about but… tonight was a pleasant surprise.

Styx: For as proudly as you claimed being a devil, you’re terrible at it.

Styx: But that’s okay.

Styx: Because you’re good at being you.

Styx: Hold onto that….

Styx: We’ll meet again soon. See you tomorrow night...

Charon: See you tomorrow night.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Dr. Strangelove Part I
[Thirteenth Reading Intermission]
CW: None

Perspective: Manzana Judgment.

You’ve had a lot thrown your way in the past 24 hours. Zinnia, your first date in god knows how long, your cousins dragging you into their horseshit.

But now it’s quiet.

You take in the air around you as the sunset cracks the edge of the ocean. You’re a bit photosensitive so you can’t really be out for long but… these little moments are your favorite.

You don’t get to enjoy the peace for long.

Your phone starts to ring at you. Your body drags in defiance as you check the caller ID.

It’s Needle from work, probably important.

You put on your best face despite being exhausted.

Manzana: What's up?

Needle: Hey! Wanted to check up on you. You left the lab early..

Manzana: Had plans, sent you a heads up the week before.

Needle: Ah! Forgot about that… everything go okay with that?

Manzana: Yeah…

Needle: You sure? You sound tired.

Manzana: Kinda had a bit of a busy night. I…

Should probably explain, might be good for you honestly.

I don’t need to say anything...

*Yeah but like… you know.*

What?

Today was supposed to be a work day.

Oh shi-

Needle: Hello? You still there?

Manzana: Yeah, just handling some things. Went on a date last night an-

Needle: Wait, a date? For real?

Manzana: It’s not a big deal or anything…

Needle: It is! I haven’t seen you on a real date ever! What’s their name? Are they cute? You stayed the night with them didn’t you?

Manzana: I’ll give you the details in person but no, we wrapped up a little before midnight and then I had a bit of an impromptu meetup with a relative who’s in town.

Needle: Is your mom around? She usually is a bit more planned out than that…

Manzana: No, my cousin…

Needle: The cool one? You gotta introduce me properly sometime.

Manzana: I wouldn’t call him that but…

Needle: Course not, if you know someone long enough they stop being cool. Are you staying with him right now?

Manzana: Sort of. Him, his brother, a few associates. Seems to be some sort of meetup, potential business prospect.

Needle: Is he dragging you in because he wants a favor? How much is he paying?

Manzana: He’s not…

Needle: Better not be anything big.

Manzana: Hard to say yet but… there’s a reason you called right?

Manzana: You didn’t call me just to hear all the details of my night.

Needle: Well… yes and no?

Manzana: Okay.

Needle: Wanted to check up on you mostly, but also wanted to ask if you took some stuff home with you.

Manzana: What stuff?

Needle: A couple of relics.. The construct husk and polearm? Took those back for tinkering I’m guessing?

Manzana: The… um…

Needle: Zana?

Manzana: Right, fuck uh…

Manzana: So the restoration process went in a bit of a surprising direction, have Platino on observation duty.

Needle: Wait, did you reactivate it?

Manzana: Something like that. It’s a little tricky to explain but…

You can Invite her over, I’ll explain while you figure out stuff.

Are you sure? This isn't really on you...

*Yeah. Kept an eye on Zinnia just fine, they’re pretty chill. One of those old smug but sad types. I’ll cover you.*

Manzana: Honestly if you don’t mind could you drop by? Plat can relay anything for me, I need to figure out how involved I want to be with this job.

Needle: Easy. I’ve just gotta handle a few things over here first but I’ll be at your place in the afternoon.

Manzana: I’ll see if I can be there for it, no promises.

Needle: Mm. You don’t need to rush if you’re spending time with family right now.

Manzana: I mean… we’re not really that close or anything.

Needle: Still, you could use a break. Don’t see you do anything like that ever.

Manzana: Mm…

Needle: When you’re wrapped up we should meet. Really do want to hear about how that date went.

Needle: Need to know if you’ll be taking more nights off.

Manzana: We’ll see…

Needle: If you ditch me I’m going to offer your roommate to hang out with me instead.

Yes please.

Needle: Thinking of a horror film. He likes spooky stuff, right?

Manzana: Sometimes.

Needle: I mean he lives with you so…

You hear a dorky little snort from the other end. It’s adorable.

Fucker.

Hehe…

Manzana: I didn’t hear that…

Needle: Hey, I’m a fan too. That look you’re going for? Nailed it, suits you perfect

Manzana: I had to design or commission a lot of it myself so…

Needle:  Maybe you’re willing to take up a job for a little dragon who needs a new wardrobe? Could be fun….

Manzana: We’ll see…

Manzana: I’ll try to be over at some point but like I said, no promises.I’ll see if they’ll let me take some time to handle things. You keep me updated if anything else comes up.

Needle: Will do. See you in a few hours. Have fun alright?

Manzana: Mm, see you..

You wait until you hear her hang up.

You gotta loosen up you know

Mm… It's hard to.

You gonna actually show up?

We’ll see…. Don’t think she needs to be dragged into a mess like this but…

You hear a knocking on the doorway behind you. You turn to see Mercury peeking out, giving you a little wave.

Mercury: Did you spend the night out here? Hopefully weren’t sleeping out in the cold.

Manzana: I’ll be fine, don’t need sleep anyway.

Mercury: I mean I used to think that too bu-

Manzana: As in biologically speaking. Angel poisoning.

Mercury: Ah… my bad. Anyway I wanted to see how you were doing, offer breakfast. You kinda kept to yourself a lot last night. You’re Geezer’s friend, right?

Manzana: Cousin technically, same with Charon too it looks like.

Mercury: I can see it. Into the whole magic thing too or…?

Manzana: In my own way. What about you? Friend, collaborator, babysitter?

Mercury: Bit of all three really. Anyway… you want to come inside? Fenton’s making pancakes…

Manzana:... Yeah. I’ll bite.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 You follow the other rabbit as she leads you back inside to the main room. Opera is half knocked out on the  bar setup. The smell of breakfast being cooked from the other room makes your ears perk up a little.

Manzana: That smells good…

Mercury: Yeah? Fenton’s pretty good at what he does.. Pretty sure he cooks for him and his partner.

Mercury: They’ll show up sooner or later, busy handling some stuff with the job coordinator.

Manzana: Job coordinator? It’s not any of you?

Mercury: Nope. But it’s someone I trust enough to know that we’re in good hands.

Mercury: Granted, there’s some choices I’m wondering about…

Manzana: Like what?

Mercury: There were a bunch of other folks who didn’t get brought in somehow. In general I’m not sure why we’re not trying to track things down before the auction happens.

Manzana: As someone who has a little insight into these events, the amount of security around them is incredibly high. Many sensitives keeping watch, storage is kept incredibly tight and hard to track to begin with. The rich refuse to part with their payday so easy.

Mercury: Feel like calling potential world enders and a corpse a payday is…

Manzana: Mm. I don’t particularly care for working with them myself. Most of the time relics like these are tossed at folks like me to tinker and tear apart until we can reproduce and streamline them.

Mercury: Define streamline here.

Manzana: Marketable. Most of the time it’s quite a bit of nothing but as I’ve been informed.. Immortality is a new one. They’ll fuck it up somehow for sure but I don’t think I like the idea of people with deep pockets and power living forever.

Mercury: Death’s one of the few things in this world that they can’t dodge.

Manzana: Exactly. That should never change.

Mercury: Mm… 

The rabbit shifts her eyes over to check on Opera.

Mercury: You doing okay there?

Opera: I’m tired….

Mercury: You want us to drag you to your room?

Opera: No…

Mercury: Fair enough. You met Manzana here yet?

Opera: Mm? Not really.

She turns to get a good look at you. You’re a little nervous after earlier.

Opera: Hearts…

Manzana: Pardon?

Opera: Your eyes, they got little hearts. They’re glowing and everything.

Manzana: Mm…

Opera: You’ve gotten the rough end of a contract. 

Manzana: It’s not so bad these days…

Opera: Mm… It’s one of those things that gets easier overtime I think.

Opera: Not always because you feel better but like…

Opera:  Because you’ve grown used to it. You learn to live with a lot of it.

Manzana: Mmm.. Take it that you’ve got a bit of your own?

Opera: Only a little. Managed to cut ties with things early enough that I’ve been better off than most.

Opera: Though I think everyone here’s got a little something going on at this point.

Manzana: I’ve noticed.

Opera: It’s nice though. Not everyone going through it but…

Manzana: Everyone around you understands.

Opera: Exactly.

Manzana: I can appreciate that honestly.

Opera: How long?

Manzana: Me? Uh… 17 I think

Manzana: I started messing with contracts earlier than that, but 17 is when I got deep enough in one to mark me. Left me with a proxy and all.

Opera: 15. Started messing with magic since Middle School but I got deep into stuff around 15 and that’s how I met everyone here.

Manzana: One of those generational things I think. Witchcraft became way easier to get into over the past couple of decades.

Manzana: This region’s always had local circles but I remember a huge boom when I was around 10.

Opera: For me I just didn’t have much else going on. Small town life.

Manzana: If only.

Opera: What about you?

Manzana: Grew up half my life on the streets, then got picked up by a knight from overseas.

Manzana: Got me housing, education, work. Didn’t let me have anything free though.

Opera: Ah, one of those?

Manzana: Yeah….

Opera: That means you’re uh…

Opera: A squire right? That’s what they call folks like that?

Manzana: No, never was really given any sort of title like that. Not really a knight either.

Manzana: Witchcraft’s more my thing.

Opera: Another one for the pile. Between you, Charon, and Fenton we got enough to run a lab.

Manzana: What’s that mean?

Mercury: She’s calling you a nerd.

Your ears flop down a bit.

Manzana: Nerd…?

Opera: I mean… you’re a cool one! You’re like…

Opera: The popular mean girl who secretly likes anime. You know?

Manzana: I don’t know what that is…?

Opera: Like, you’re cool but you got a secret geeky side.

Manzana: Maybe…

Opera: That’s a lot of my friends though.

Manzana: Huh…

Opera: And you’re cooler than your cousins so…

Manzana: That’s really not hard.

Mercury: It’s not? But we love them anyway.

Mercury: Speaking of, you two mind doing me a favor?

Opera: What’s up?

Mercury: Just remembered we’re out of juice and coffee. There’s a convenience store down the street.

Opera: On it! You want to come Manzana? Want to talk to you a bit more, get some air too.

Do it.

I was going to…

Manzana: Yeah, sure.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Opera: Hey so….

Manzana: What’s up?

Opera: Sorry about earlier, turbo protective of folks and you well…

Manzana: Bad first impression, I know.

Opera: Literally the only reason I didn’t bop you on the spot is because you looked so… guilty.

Opera: Makes me wonder why you did the act to begin with.

Manzana: I mean… real answer is my mom.

Opera: Need you to uh… explain that one?

Manzana: Long story, but gist is there’s a huge family feud between my mom and her sister. They have some decades old beef that I don’t see any end to.

Manzana: Well… besides one killing the other really.

Manzana: One of those.

Opera: Huh… think I heard someone back there talk about Erica. God I don’t know if I’d be ready to meet up with her..

Manzana: Any reason?

Opera: She’d be like, 70 or 80 now or something. When we met we were all time displaced teens and all that..

Manzana: Weird… can’t imagine her young. When you got that old time cowboy vibe it just… weird.

Opera: She’s literally always been a cowboy so…

Manzana: Did she grow up on a farm or…?

Opera: Don’t think so! Small town type but looking at her entire family? Might just be a personal interest.

Manzana: That.. hmm..

Mazana: Makes it less scary, honestly.

Opera: She could still skin you alive.

Manzana: We’ll see. Anyway…

Opera: Anyway…

Manzana: Anyone associated with her makes my mom flip her shit. Curated the hell out of my friends when I was learning under her, didn’t want any “bad influences''.” Working with Anyone tied to my aunt is asking to get stabbed on the streets.

Opera: Sounds intense.

Manzana: Used to it. So… what’s your deal? Not in the same line as business as the others I think.

Opera: Me? I just investigate all sorts of hauntings and curses across the country really. Back where I’m from there’s not really witches the same way you think of.

Manzana: Really? Must be pretty far out.

Opera: Mmhmm! Don’t like traveling alone but thankfully I got my little buddy with me.

Opera’s coat unfurls a little to reveal the head of a bat-like creature.

Manzana: A proxy?

Opera: Sorta? I mean guess yeah but… he’s different from what a lot of you folks have.

Manzana: No kidding, can get a lot out of just a look…

Manzana: He just been there the whole time?

Opera: Mmhmm! Rarely ever isn’t out.

Manzana: Doesn’t ever get tired?

Opera: Nope!

She stops to scratch behind the bat’s ears, causing it to crackle affectionately.

Opera:I mean has to sleep and all that but just always with me.

Opera: All you magic loving folks say he’s special and I gotta agree on that. Bit of a bastard but..

Manzana: Does he have a name?

Opera: Mmhmm, Paige Bailiff.

Manzana: Why Bailiff?

Opera: Mom used to put on a lot of daytime court stuff back home, always thought the word was funny as a kid.

Opera playfully presses her nose against the proxy’s. He sneezes in response.

Opera: He’s a sweetpea, always gonna be by my side.

Manzana: Cute….

You reach out to pet him, he pulls back, clearly less than comfortable with you..

Manzana: Ah…

Opera: He’s a bit shy, don’t push too much yet.

Manzana: Figured, never been good with animals.

Opera: Just gotta spend more time around them, they mellow out.  When we get back you two can get familiar with each other, maybe let you feed him treats.

Manzana: Mm..

Opera: What about uh… Platino? He uh… talked through you last night?

Manzana: He’s my proxy too, we share control of this body but lately I’ve gotten him a blank so he can do his own thing more. You’ll meet him properly at some point.

Opera: Excited! And uh.. I’m guessing that means we’re going to see more of you then?

Manzana: Maybe, we’ll see. Did promise to help but how much time I can give is a little tricky.

Opera: Busy with work?

Manzana: With everything really. Going to do my part in this but I have a lot of contracts to fulfill and can’t risk getting caught with any of you.

Opera: But… you’re walking to the convenience store just fine with me?

Manzana: Nobody recognizes me out of uniform.

Opera: Kinda doubt that, you uh…

Manzana: Mm?

Opera: You got like.. A lot? Like…

Manzana: Pick your next words wisely.

Opera: Like… you got big white hair…

Manzana: Tie it back after work.

Opera: You got those heart eyes? Those real? They’re really cute.

Manzana: Get asked both of those things plenty, answer’s yes.

Opera: That’s so cool though….

Manzana: …Right.

Opera: I’m guessing you’ve been exposed though. Hearts got that glow.

Manzana: Plenty, occupational hazard.

Opera: Charon says that a lot too…

Manzana: Bit of a running joke for folks like us. Without a little gallows humor you’d never get far.

Opera: Mm… I guess. Little bit poisoned myself but it’s pretty minor…

Manzana: For the best really..

Opera: Mm…

Opera: You can tell me if you need me to back off at any point also.

Manzana: You’re fine.

Opera: Wanted to get to know you a bit more but, I know it can get annoying.

Manzana: Treating it as a job interview, got every right to know about who you're working with.

Opera: Guess so.

Manzana: Plus it’s easier if it’s you,  no offense to everyone else but you’re the coolest person I’ve talked to so far.

Opera: Maybe, compared to who?

Manzana: Geezer.

Opera: I think he’s cool…

Manzana: He’s a dweeb, just a well dressed one. Charon’s nice but he gives me tryhard vibes. Platino likes him though and I figure I’ll be working with him on any equipment we’ll need for the heist.

Manzana: Seems to be a bit of a retrofitter though, self taught one too from the looks of it. Going to have to teach him to clean up his work. Got potential, listened to me ramble about soul packeting for a hour so that’s nice…

Opera: You two are nerds.

Manzana: Paid nerds, big difference.

Manzana: Mercury’s cool but she’s… hmm.

Opera: What?

Manzana: She’s got the energy of an aunt coming over for Christmas. You know the type. Nice but… eh. Sort of thing makes me nervous.

Opera: Mm..

Manzana: Not her fault.

Manzana: Rosario called me a bunny, I’m not a fan.

Opera: But… you are?

Manzana: No, it’s about the energy. I’m a rabbit. Bunny would be… I guess Platino maybe.

Opera: That really a thing?

Manzana: Mm. And Esperanto only showed up briefly but I don’t like their vibe. Reminds me too much of my mom in a bad way. Haven’t talked to Fenton yet soo…. congrats, you’re the coolest one here.

Opera: Do I win anything?

Manzana: Maybe. Let’s bring back juice and coffee like we promised and we can keep talking over that.

Opera: Yeah, I’m down. We can split the fee..

Manzana: I’m covering, that’s final. I shot your friend, I gotta make up that much.

Opera: Fair enough, I’m not great on cash right now anyway.

Manzana: Easy. And… appreciate you for hearing me out a bit. Think I actually needed that.

Opera: No prob, really help?

Manzana: Yeah… really did.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The Path of Most Suffering
[Fourteenth Reading]
CW: Mentions of fear, death, verbal abuse.

Perspective: Charon Judgment

 You finally wake up.

You no longer feel Styx’s presence. Wherever he is right now, he’s cut off communication with you.

You look around in your candle lit room.

You see a gift left for you, a note attached.

“The boss left you something, a gesture from someone close to you.

Wash up, put this on, meet me outside

-Esperanto.”

You unwrap the present. A fresh change of clothes with a coat.

You recognize the material as being laced with fiend silk, famous for its ability to protect the wearer from a variety of supernatural ailments and attacks.

You need to confront Esperanto about last night.

With Styx’s warnings of an intruder, you have to wonder what exactly they’re looking for.

You follow the instructions without a moment of hesitation. You could be playing into something dangerous, but you’re surrounded by allies.

Still, you wonder why someone outside of all this has been brought in. Rosario isn’t part of the original group either but… her vibe feels like a natural fit at least.

Esperanto is odd, distant, a little menacing to be frank. Someone hired by this mysterious person who’s gathered everyone.

Whoever this is seems to be aware of who you all are. They didn’t invite you with Geezer, so it’s very likely they had no idea where you even were. Maybe they got lucky and nailed two birds with one stone.

It’s a bit odd though, this had to be someone with knowledge of the angel pocket in detail. Maybe they’re Hickory? One of the few folks from back then who seemingly isn’t here. Fenton made it more than clear they’re fine.

What if they’re in a dangerous situation? What if they’re collecting info for this heist and can’t compromise their location?

You’re a little worried now admittedly.

The fiend silk? Erica? Arabis? This doesn’t make sense…

The stitching is certainly the latter’s work, he must be in contact in some way but…

Erica is way too hands on to not be here herself if given the offer.

Did they know you’d be here all along? How’d they get this over so quickly? A few folks in your group are capable of warping from the Judgment House to Plaza quickly enough.

Opera? No, she doesn’t seem to know who’s in charge and isn’t the type to keep this sort of thing hidden.

Fenton? Maybe but… you haven’t really spoken to him either.

Nobody in your family has the capacity to do that themselves…

You get the outfit on, it’s a comfortable fit. It wouldn’t be too hard to have someone figure out your measurements if they’re in contact with folks who were able to track you and Geezer down.

Doesn’t matter, you’ll find out soon enough.

As you make your way toward the nearest exit and spot them outside as promised…

 

Face to face...

Charon: We need to talk.

Esperanto: We do.

Charon: What do you want with me? Can’t imagine this is standard protocol. The flashback, the dreams, whatever you’ve done to my proxy…

Esperanto. I thoroughly background check those involved in this, but since you’ve appeared without any info given I have to be extra cautious and well…

Esperanto: Certainly are someone of interest. You’ve been through quite a bit from a young age.

Esperanto: More than most could even imagine in their life.

Esperanto: Gives me more reason to make sure you’re suited for the job.

Charon: I’d like to think given I’m just as personally motivated to follow through with it as the others, I have more right than you.

Esperanto: Maybe. You’re certainly a promising one for being so early and yet..

Esperanto: The choices you made have me concerned. You’ve made deals and contracts that make me doubt your decision making down the line.

Esperanto: A knight is risking a lot with each client, and I don’t know if you’re suited to this occupation frankly.

Charon: I’ve done my work, I deserve to find that out myself.

Esperanto: We’ll see. I’m watching you closely over the next couple of weeks, don’t disappoint.

Charon: Who are you to make the call anyway? How’d you get a hold of something like this?

Esperanto: A secret for now, all you need to know is that I’m fulfilling a favor long owed. It really doesn’t come down to me though, honest. I just report what I see and well… if what you display doesn’t wow? I will strongly suggest against your involvement.

Esperanto: Though with that little devil in your head I can’t help but already wonder..

Charon: If you need to observe anything, do it the normal way.

Esperanto: Can’t really trust you with that, you’re far from honest.

Esperanto: Lying to yourself even, that poor proxy’s been feigning courage even harder than you.

Esperanto: The form it takes now is the truth. Timid, insecure, not long for this world…

Charon: Back off.

Esperanto: If you want to prove me wrong, show some teeth. Not that it matters, I know everything you’re scared of. All it takes is one good look into your soul.

Esperanto manages to grab you faster than you can react, a deathly vision mirrored in your eyes. It pierces your mind and body like wet paper to a scorching knife. No matter how hard you try, you can't break through the illusion at hand... It takes everything within you to not scream...

Esperanto: I can see every fear, every intrusive thought, and every crack in your foundation…. You’re an anomaly really. One eye sees the world and the other sees the truth, and anytime you look in the mirror you can’t deny what you see.

Esperanto: Thankfully we have plenty of time to fix that…

Esperanto tightens their grip on you.


Esperanto: When we’re done, you’ll cast away only ignorance and that vile squatter’s magic. You won’t need to hide behind that little shade anymore. When I’ve purged you of all that dead weight, you’ll know who you really are.

Charon: Leave them out of it.

Esperanto: Of all people to defend… you’ll be the death of you and everyone you love…

Esperanto releases you. The visions clear up, you feel reality start to ground you again.

Esperanto: That’s enough from now, really managed to keep a poker face through all that..

Charon: Didn’t have to go that far….

Esperanto: I think I did, it’s only going to be harder from here. I’m not apologizing for what I said, not until you prove me wrong.

Esperanto: Spar with me.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

CW: Physical violence, injury, destruction of mobility devices.

 

Without hesitation, your proxy swoops in and jabs them full force, catching an expression in genuine shock in the moment.

You send them crumpling onto the beach.

Charon:  We’re past that point.

Charon: Hands up.

A mist begins to form around you and Esperanto, the world a stage melting over. It’s hard to say if you’re in the middle of reality.

Your proxy looks back at you with a confident look, stronger than you’ve seen in a long time… it makes you feel happy.

Esperanto: Hardly sporting.. proud of you.

Charon: Excuse me?

Esperanto: You had every right and you pulled the trigger. Boss will be happy to know. 

Esperanto: Truth be told, I reported everything from last night that I could. There was a bit of hesitation but…

Esperanto: I assured them I’d make you a fine addition with a little polish.

Charon: Who is this boss? Why are you so invested in this?

Esperanto: Just someone who was asked to help tie loose ends from a long time ago, including yours

Charon: You mean Styx?I hadn’t thought of him in god knows.

Charon: You spent 5 minutes poking at my head, now I’m hearing him crystal clear again. If you were tying loose ends, you’re lousy at it.

Esperanto: An oversight.

Esperanto: Let me get rid of him, you’ll never have to again…

Charon: To be honest with you? I’m not sure I want to. I think…. Things will be different-

Esperanto: Don’t tell yourself that.

Esperanto: I know his type. You give him a single inch and he takes a mile.

Esperanto: You don’t need him.

They make an attempt to approach. You draw your weapon.

Charon: Back off, I don’t like how you’re looking at me.

Esperanto: Do you really trust him?

Esperanto: The amount he’s put you through.

Charon: I know.. I’m very aware and I can’t get too comfortable around him but..

Esperanto: But you know what he can do.

Charon: I’m willing to take that risk.

Esperanto: Baffling… I’m giving you an out and you’re protecting him…?

Charon: It’s my call on how I want to handle this. If the team has to take me off the job for their sake? So be it. But I want that vote made by people whose input I value more.

Charon: You’ve done nothing to merit my trust so far, and it honestly has me only questioning this job.

Esperanto: Really going to make this difficult… Well…

Esperanto: In that case I’m giving you a fair warning. Don’t complicate this.

Charon: No chance.

Before you can fully register what happens next, you’re sent crumbling into the ground by the full force blunting of a giant sword. 

Esperanto: Please stay down. It’s for your best.

You refuse.

Your proxy lifts you off the floor. Your entire body is in agony.

Esperanto: You’re really going to make this a big deal?

Charon: It’s all I’m good at.

They take another swing, this time the sharp end crashing down. You manage to catch it with your bare prosthetic hand, it digs in deep into the palm.

You take the opportunity to yank them in for a counter blow to the throat. It staggers them hard though not to the extent you were hoping for.

They quickly bounce back and return a headbutt.

You trade your own in time.

It seems to have more of an effect. You use your free hand to cling on and bite deep into the shoulder.

Blood is drawn.

The taste of it fills your throat.

Your entire body flickers and howls with a primal flame.

The sword digs deeper, burrowing into your mechanical wrist.

The Proxy dives in to push back. You pummel for your life.

Esperanto grabs you by the chest in return and pulls you in for a knee to the face.

And another..

And another…

And another…

It takes everything in you to keep conscious through this.

Eventually you recall your Proxy, the sword shatters your left arm into metal fragments and wire. You’re tossed directly into the dirt.

They place a foot directly on your remaining arm.

Esperanto: Where is he? I don’t want to be doing this-

Your proxy reappears and football tackles them off of you. They manage to grip the proxy and steer it directly into the ground like a bull flung by the horns.

You take this opportunity to grab a fragment of your shattered arm and jab it directly into their side.

They wheeze intensively, you finally land a blow that seems to have impact. You dig your hand deep into the void, your fingers around the handle of a short blade.

You’re cut short..

They grab your arm by the mechanical joint and immediately break the hinge with their bare hands. Your hand goes limp, the weapon falls back into the abyss it came from.

Your proxy swoops in to save you from their grip only to end up in a stranglehold.

You’re out of options.

You can’t trade in any meaningful way.

Your proxy is pinned.

You have no way to hold a weapon.

All you can do is bite and kick and scream until your lungs give out.

Esperanto’s grip tightens around the Proxy’s neck.

You can feel that tightness.

Esperanto: Right now you’re in a world you don’t have a lick of control over.

Esperanto: You may be walking but you never truly woke up.

Esperanto: You only  hit me because I let you hit me.

Esperanto: Any little moment of advantage? I gave you that.

Esperanto: I’m not asking anymore, where is he?

Styx: I’m right here.

The devil slow claps as he enters the room.

Styx: Couldn’t have the guts to throw hands with someone your size?

Styx: Pity.

Styx: In a fair fight, my bets would be on the kid.

Styx: Respect him a ton even if we don’t see eye to eye often.

Styx: Me personally? Not having much fun watching this, neither are you for that matter.

Styx: Put him down.

Esperanto drops you onto the floor, you don’t have anything left in you to stand back up.

Styx: Good dog.

Esperanto: I’m lost, what’s your angle?

Styx: Nothing. Don’t got all that much love for the cuss personally but..

Styx: Made a deal to protect him.

Styx: So go ahead, have at me. Not much left to kill really.

Styx: But don’t figure you’re the good guy after all this.

You move your mouth but your throat can’t make a cohesive sound.

He looks right at you.

Styx: You did your part, now stay down yeah?

Styx: When the time comes, you’ll be a better devil than I’ve ever been.

Styx: Happier one.

Styx: For now just sleep, yeah? Things will be good when you wake up.

Styx: We’ll settle this out nice and easy…

Styx: Talk to you again soon.

You black out.

 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

CW: Discussion of Death and Violence.

You're back in that pit again...

A dream, or a memory...
 Geezer: Charon, you okay?

Charon: Not really..

Geezer: What’s up?

Charon: Overwhelmed right now…

Charon: Check out some books on the occult one day, end up burning down a city the next…

Geezer: Feel that…

Charon: Rotting every part of you just to make it to the next day…

Charon: I’m sorry you got dragged into this..

Geezer: It’s okay dude… We made it this far, right?

Charon: Mm… don’t know how much more we’ve got in us.

Charon: Killing’s hard Geez, really is.

Geezer: I know…

Charon: Even if these people had it coming…

Geezer: They did…

Charon: That’s the thing right? Each time makes a little more sense in your head like…

Charon: Fuck…

Geezer: It’s what’s gotta be done. You remember what Grandma said?

Charon: If someone comes for your leg, you make sure they never walk again.

Geezer: Because if you let them get back up, they’ll try it again. Could be you, could be someone else.

Geezer: If we don’t here and now, they’ll just find a fresh start and do it all over.

Geezer: Corny shit but..

Geezer: Remember this from something I watched growing up.
Geezer: “Not a sin to fight for what’s right.”

Geezer: “Some folks won’t ever listen to words.”

Geezer: Paraphrasing of course. Thought that shit was so cool but…

Geezer: Think that’s the truth.

Geezer: Don’t make our stand now, might never get to again.

Geezer: Can’t afford to lose, so we won’t.

Geezer:.... Charon?

Geezer: Ah shoot uh… are you crying? Uh…

Charon: Sorry….

Geezer: Let me get you something-

Charon: It’s fine, need this right now…

Charon: Guess just… I don’t know..

Charon: Wish I was as brave as everyone else you know?

Geezer: Literally never seen you break a sweat during a fight, fuck are you on about?

Charon: All just pretend, doing it so nobody else worries.

Geezer: Yeah? That’s pro stuff. Putting on a face when you could die… that’s not easy at all.

Geezer: Nobody’s going to give you shit for being stressed. Not me, or any of our friends.. Think Hickory’s got a lot of respect for you too at this point and they don’t listen to anyone.

Charon: Except Fenton.

Geezer: Yeah but like, those two are like… you know.

Charon: Gay?

Geezer: Yeah, that.

Charon: I mean… they always got each other.

Charon: And we got all our friends we made on the way.

Geezer: Yeah.

Charon: Corny but… it’s something to fight for.

Geezer: Exactly, you get it.

Geezer: Not just about the killing…

Geezer: It’s about famil-

Charon: Shut the fuck up dude, I will cut you.

Geezer: We’re a family dude.

Charon: Oh my fucking god….

Geezer: Hey, got you smiling.

Charon: You did…

Geezer: You feeling better now?

Charon: Little, yeah…

Geezer: Always got your back.

Charon: Yeah…

Charon: We should check in on the others…

Geezer: Yeah, know Opera isn’t doing her best right now. You good for that?

Charon: Mm…  let’s keep it going. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You wake up by the shore, drenched and thrown aside..

Your cousin looms over you nonchalantly.

Charon: Geezer…?

Geezer: Yeah, sup.

Charon: Should you be standing up like this right now?

Geezer: Stable for now, can’t do anything too extreme til I get a more thorough repair job but… Fenton is Fenton. He’s good at making things work in a pinch.

Charon: Mm..

Geezer: Gotta wonder what happened with you though. Look like you got roughed up hard but when I checked up on you well… not a scratch. You wanna explain?

You get to your feet, checking yourself. Your prosthetics are just fine despite the destruction of them earlier, and your injuries have healed completely. The only proof of your earlier fight is the now dry stains on your face.

Charon: Got in a scuffle with one of the crew. Esperanto.

Geezer: Who?

Charon: That’s exactly what I want to find out..

Geezer: That’s not uh… whoever Mercury was getting all kissy with last night, right? Don’t want to be killing the buzz on that but..

Charon: That’s Rosario, she’s fine. Esperanto is the weird abstract looking one, you can’t miss them.

You can’t help but snarl a little.

Charon: Next time I see their face I’m going to put them in a coffin…. Spineless.

Geezer: You’re looking a bit aggro there…

Charon: Can’t be helped frankly. Everything about their presence irks me, and their weird fixation on Styx isn’t helping.

Geezer: Okay, I think I missed out on a lot…

Charon: Mm, Styx is back-

Geezer: He’s what?! Okay no, this is-

Charon: It’s fine this time-

Geezer: No it’s not! Charon-

Charon: Let me talk-

Geezer: How? Why?!

Charon: Don’t you fucking cut me off.

He goes quiet, more than a little hurt by your response.

Geezer: Charon…

Charon: I’m… sorry. I’m just… I’m dealing with a lot right now and I don’t know what to make of it anymore..

Charon: Feel tired, heated…

Geezer: No kidding dude, even your face. What happened there?

Charon: My face…?

He fishes around his pockets for a phone and passes it along.

Geezer: Check your reflection.

You take a look at yourself on the screen to see eyes so dark they’re practically bleeding over, the red and blue having their glows now overlap.

Your teeth have turned into a rosebush of fangs…

Though much remains intact you struggle to recognize yourself

Charon: I don’t know if I can do this..

Charon: One night and I’m falling apart..

Geezer: Look..  we got all sorts of folks inside who can take a look at you. Someone’s gotta know something.

Charon: I don’t want them to see me like this… didn’t want to yell at you either…

Geezer: I mean.. Everyone here’s facing a lot of shit we thought we were done with.

Geezer: Some asshole dug it all up.

Geezer: Shit’s got me still fucked, you’re allowed to be stressed dude.

Geezer: Just calm down for now. We’ll take you in, get you something to eat, figure it all out.

Geezer: …

Geezer: Charon?

Charon: Mm.. sorry just..

Charon: Can we really do that?

Geezer: Yeah. Let’s get you dried up though, I think folks would be pissed if we ruined the floorboards.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The two of you walk back into the place, smell of pumpkin pancakes filling the air the moment you open the door.

You spot your friend working on plating, Geezer giving him a little salute to catch his attention.

Geezer: Yo Fenton!

Fenton: Geezer! 

Geezer: Talk to me, how’s breakfast looking?

Fenton: Practically done, just-

He gets a look at you and stumbles, startled immediately. You avoid eye contact on instinct.

Fenton: Charon..?

Charon: Mm. Morning.

Fenton: You uh.. Got a little something on you.

Charon: Very aware, may need your assistance here.

Fenton: I’d say, how old are you?

Charon: 24? I don’t see what that has to do with anything..

Fenton: Ah… you seem a bit late but it’s still in the typical window.

He takes a closer look at you.

Fenton: You bit someone.

Charon: Mm… got in a scuffle with Esperanto.

Fenton: Really?  I’m surprised…

Charon: What do you mean?

Fenton: Known them for a couple of years, met them when doing a favor for Erica.

Charon: You’ve kept in contact with her?

Fenton: Mmhmm. Oddball, not entirely sure what their deal is but they’re not the type to start fights…

Charon: Have a hard time believing it after the past 24 hours.

Fenton: I mean… what was it over?

Charon: Seems to doubt my capacity to handle the job, or at least our mystery employer here does…

Fenton: Huh…

Geezer: You know anything about them?

Fenton: Little bit. Unfortunately not at the liberty to out their identity for safety reasons..

Geezer: What’s that mean?

Fenton: Being targeted by someone, very selective on who’s allowed to know..

Charon: You can’t tell us?

Fenton: No, would be risky to them… but I can promise you they’re a friend.

Fenton: And I wouldn’t let them put you in danger either, not that I think they would..

Fenton: Anyway…  your current problem… might be going through an awakening of sorts.

Fenton: Fiend hybrids like us go through a bit of weirdness with age you know? You ever had the urge to feed before?

Charon: Occasionally, I try not to… can count the number of times on my hands... Rather not drink blood if I can help it since… you know.

Fenton: Once a fiend starts drinking regularly, becomes harder to go without it.

Geezer: Explains a lot actually, never Charon or Erica drink before.. Except maybe the one time where you bit whatshisface. You went kinda berserk.. ..

Charon: Hence why I try not to.

Geezer: Yeah…

Fenton: What were the other times?

Charon: Mm well… had a former partner who was quite into the idea..

Geezer: You’re going to talk about that here?

Charon: Not going into graphic detail if that’s what you’re worried about..

Fenton: Mm..

Charon: Never had it change me this much before however, not off just one heat of the moment bite.

Fenton: That’s because the circumstances for an awakening are.. Little precise?

Charon: Oh?

Fenton: Gotta bite someone in a bit of an extreme, someone who’s got some fixation on you and pushes you to a state of special tension.

Fenton: A rival, a nemesis, anything of that sort.

Charon: Mm…

Fenton: Esperanto isn’t anything close to normal so… that checks out..

Fenton: Granted, nobody’s seen their true form.

Charon:... What do you mean?

Fenton: They’re an illusionist, you noticed right?

Charon: Mm..

Fenton: Have that eye of yours, the angel poisoned one..

Charon: Could see that much but couldn’t gaze past the magic at all.

Fenton: Really? Terrifying..

Fenton: But it sounds about right for them.

Charon: So… what is this awakening exactly? Heard things here and there but no concrete answer.

Fenton: Aye, the inconsistencies between people.

Fenton: But the origin comes from first generation fiends. They show up, target someone they have a grudge against, and then when they do the job they move on…

Fenton: But if you feed on someone in the heat of the moment? Might lead to places.

Charon: Don’t exactly know them..

Fenton: No, but they tend to play into their opponents… insecurities to put it bluntly.

Charon: Ah…

You can’t help but grumble under your breath at that.

Fenton: Don’t take it personally when I say that-

Charon: I didn’t.

Geezer: Charon..

Charon: Just.. moment. Sensitive.

Geezer gives you a little nod.

Fenton: The awakening tends to play into existing feelings and escalate them. Us fiends are well…

Charon: Emotional.

Fenton: Absolutely.

Fenton: Awakenings for first gen fiends are very cathartic but…

Fenton: For someone like you or me? Hectic. Parts of you that are or aren’t start clashing until they balance out, the fiend side becomes passive, or it becomes the primary you.

Fenton: It’s healthy but… upsetting until it resolves.

Geezer: How long is it going to last?

Fenton: Variable. Few days, a week, maybe two?

Fenton: Could potentially overlap with our schedule the entire time…

Fenton: You’re a spider variant, right?

Charon: Yes..

Fenton: What’s your breath type?

Charon:... Web.

Fenton:... Rough then. Chance you might cocoon for a few days at some point. Metabolism might also pop off… and you might be a little more…

Charon: Volatile.

Fenton: Mm…

Charon: I… don’t think I’ll be a good fit for this job.

Charon: They sabotaged me. Wasn’t on the invite list, baited me into biting.

Fenton: They’re the type to make people sink or swim but… don’t think they intended that last part. Seems like a bit of a ridiculous gambit.

You can’t help but glare at him briefly, watching his face sink immediately before backing off.

Fenton: Sorry…

Charon: Likewise..

Fenton: I’ll talk to them, Mercury too.

Fenton: Both of us know them better than anyone else here. All this seems off as hell…

Fenton: Honestly though, if it comes down to it I’ll vouch to have them removed from the heist. After everything, think I’d prefer you were there.

Your ears perk up.

Charon: Are you sure?

Fenton: Job’s gotta get done one way or another, but think we’d all miss you. Worst case, you’ll help me in the workshop.

Charon: Did talk about collaborating like this one day…

Fenton: Still up for making good on it?

Charon: Maybe… I’d like to. Feel like screaming but…it gives me some assurance.

Fenton: For now just get situated, we’re just waiting on Opera and Manzana to finish their errands.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

 

The stack of flapjacks standing before you is perfect in every form.

This is the ideal breakfast for a cold day in fall.

Charon: You’ve really outdone yourself with these…

Geezer: Cute…

Fenton: Like them?

Charon: Mmhmm. You really didn’t have to…

Fenton: Tis the season, darkest night is rearing up and we have some time to appreciate the season.

Charon: I’d assume the prep work would be more intensive… hard to celebrate when you’ve got a potential doomsday timer.

Fenton: It will be, but we’ve got plenty of hands on board and a few backup options..  We can afford little things like this.

Geezer: You mean bombing the place?

Fenton: Mmhmm. Don’t want to resort to that but.. It’s potentially dire enough.

Charon: Honestly I’d be tempted to… anyway what’s keeping breakfast held up?

Fenton: Just-

You hear someone approaching the entrance, the dialogue becoming clear as it gets closer.

Manzana: You’ve never seen the prequels?

Opera: No! There’s only one movie back home.

Manzana: No….

The two fiddle with the door knob.

Opera: Shoot, forgot keys…

Geezer scoots on over to unlock the door.

Geezer: Gotcha covered, what’s up?

Opera: Juice, coffee, milk.. Breakfast things.

Manzana: Covered the expenses, sorry about yesterday…

Geezer: No biggie, I’ll be back to full after visiting the shop.

Manzana: Surprised you’re walking so soon after that..

Geezer: Fenton’s good with machines. Anyway hurry up, don’t want it all getting cold.

The two shuffle inside and start laying everything out on the tables. Fenton finishes with handling plating, stacks of pumpkin pancakes for everyone.

Opera: You’ve really outdone yourself with these…

Opera: So cute…

Fenton: Hehe, well you know.

Opera: Let me grab the others, excited to try these… you really didn’t have to…

Fenton: It pays off when I see everyone happy…

Opera rushes up stairs to call the others.

Charon: Earning your praises.

Fenton: Got to hear them again. Never mind that…

Fenton: Charon, mind grabbing the syrup and napkins? I can uh… explain the fiend thing to them while you do.

Fenton:  Figure it’s best for them to not worry.

Charon: Mm… it’d be appreciated.

Fenton: I got your back, we all do.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 
You return with everything and set up on the table as folks gather around.

You do your best to keep a low profile, avoiding eye contact. You catch a glance of Fenton talking to everyone as they gather, Opera taking a quick look over. You barely manage to look away in time but you’re pretty sure she noticed.

Footsteps your way.

She’s approaching, you wince just a little.

Opera: Morning.

Charon: Morning…

Opera: Need help there? Saw you bringing in the syrup…

Charon: All done for now. Should be ready to eat soon. I… hmm..

Opera: Yeah. Got filled in. Styx, the new guy, fiend stuff.

Charon: Mmm.. bit overwhelmed if I’m honest.

Opera: Nobody can blame you for that. Anything I can do for you?

Charon: Hard to say really. Admittedly feeling pretty ugly right now.. Snapped at Geezer earlier.

Opera: Really?

Charon: I apologized but…. I haven’t done anything like that since back then.

Charon: Even after talking to Fenton I just…

Charon: Helped, but I already feel heavy again.

Charon: Promised it wouldn’t get bad but one day in I’m already falling apart..

Opera: Not your fault, whole thing is just rough timing.

Opera: And if you need to back out, you can but…

Charon: But?

Opera: It’d feel wrong not having you I guess.

Opera: You and Geezer were my best friends during all that….really was excited when I found out you both were here together.

Opera: Always makes me happy knowing everyone from back then’s doing pretty well these days. Much as we can….

Opera: Can I uh….

Charon: Hmm?

She makes a gesture for you to turn toward her.

Opera: Let me see.

Charon: Right…

You follow along, not enough to face directly toward her but giving her the opportunity to get a clear look.

She places a finger down gently on your face. Your brain can’t decide if you’re irritated or comfortable the moment contact is made.

Opera: Huh….

Charon: Mm.

Charon: I haven’t seen myself but.. I can tell it’s bad.

Opera: the eyes… dYou return with everything and set up on the table as folks gather around.

You do your best to keep a low profile, avoiding eye contact. You catch a glance of Fenton talking to everyone as they gather, Opera taking a quick look over. You barely manage to look away in time but you’re pretty sure she noticed.

Footsteps your way.

She’s approaching, you wince just a little.

Opera: Morning,

Charon: Morning…

Opera: Need help there? Saw you bringing in the syrup…

Charon: All done for now. Should be ready to eat soon. I… hmm..

Opera: Yeah. Got filled in. Styx, the new guy, fiend stuff.

Charon: mm.. bit overwhelmed if I’m honest.

Opera: Nobody can blame you for that. Anything I can do for you?

Charon: Hard to say really. Admittedly feeling pretty ugly right now.. Snapped at Geezer earlier.

Opera: Really?

Charon: I apologized but…. I haven’t done anything like that since back then.

Charon: Even after talking to Fenton I just…

Charon: Helped, but I already feel heavy again.

Charon: Promised it wouldn’t get bad but one day in I’m already falling apart..

Opera: Not your fault, whole thing is just rough timing.

Opera: And if you need to back out, you can but…

Charon: But?

Opera: It’d feel wrong not having you I guess.

Opera: You and Geezer were my best friends during all that….really was excited when I found out you both were here together.

Opera: Always makes me happy knowing everyone from back then’s doing pretty well these days. Much as we can….

Opera: Can I uh….

Charon: Hmm?

She makes a gesture for you to turn toward her.

Opera: Let me see.

Charon: Right…

You follow along, not enough to face directly toward her but giving her the opportunity to get a clear look.

She places a finger down gently on your face. Your brain can’t decide if you’re irritated or comfortable the moment contact is made.

Opera: Huh….

Charon: Mm.

Charon: I haven’t seen myself but.. I can tell it’s bad.

Opera: the eyes… do they hurt?

Charon: No but… it doesn’t feel comfortable either. Like adjusting to new frames…

Opera: Look like little halos.. Kinda like hers honestly.

Charon: Ah…

You feel yourself sinking in your own flesh.

Charon: I don’t feel like I’m quite all here honestly..

Charon: No clue where I start or end….

Charon: Maybe I’m becoming something awful.
She shakes her head at you.

Opera: Still pretty different. Never really fit quite right, always could tell she was something awful underneath.

Opera: I just see you.

Opera: Maybe a little scared and angry but… you don’t really let yourself do that.

Charon: Don’t want to hurt others.

Opera: You won’t.

Opera: Don’t know how your whole fiend metamorphosis thing is going to work out but…

Opera: Think you’ll be you no matter how it turns out, you know? Just more growing.

Charon: Never really stops…

Opera: Nope. Plus it’s pretty, whoever you got in your life right now is pretty lucky.

Charon: Not really seeing anyone currently..

Opera: Really? Geezer is…

Charon: He never told me that…

Opera: He was going to bring it up later yesterday over Pizza but.. You know.

Charon: That’s fair….

Charon: Wait..

Charon: Are you telling me something?

Opera: I mean…

Charon: Who?

Opera: Someone special… think I wanna keep quiet til we all are done with this. Ya’ll are invited to the Opera house.

Charon: Very punny.

Opera: Had to listen to you and Merc kill every noun on this earth last night, I’m allowed.

Charon: You are..

You turn to face her properly. She returns a tiny grin.

Charon: Don’t understand how you do it. Everyone really…

Opera: Do what?

Charon: Everyone’s been so good to me, think I’d pick a fight if I had to deal.

Opera: Think everyone would throw hands with themselves really. ‘Sides, we get along just fine.

Charon: That’s true. Think you’re more like Geezer than me frankly.

Opera: I wish, I’m so short…

Charon: Same…

Opera: Not gonna get any bigger without breakfast though, shit’s getting cold.

Charon:  You’re 25, no? Think you’re done by now.

Opera: Never too late to become tall.

Charon: That…. Opera…

Charon: No…

Opera: I mean… Fenton told me you might get a inch or two from this whole vampire thing so maybe I’ll get lucky too?

Charon: That’s not quite correct. Biologically I’m more akin to a silkworm with inherited  mimicry meant to look like a dog. I’m more likely to lay eggs than die from UV radiation-

Opera: Nerd!

Charon: Yeah…

Opera: Heh…

Opera: Sit down with me and eat up. I wanna go see the festive stuff in town today.

Opera: Zana and uh… Platino? They’re  gonna be there too if that’s alright.

Charon: Yeah… could use that.