Masa con Papas: Proxy's Memory

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 You get up from your spot and stretch.

Charon: Got a lot of work still left to do for today then.

Opera: Don’t push yourself too hard..

Charon: I won’t. Don’t let me either.

Opera: I mean you *really* have a habit of overdoing things, even back then.

Charon: Part of my charm.

Opera: Sometimes. Scares me though.

Opera: ‘Specially the whole nonchalant thing that comes with it sometimes.

Opera: No offense, you talk like a terminator.

Charon: No idea what that is. Is that a good thing?

Opera: Depends? It’s no big deal anyway.

Mercury: So what are you two talking about?

The rabbit steps through the doorway.

Charon: Nothing big just… been a hectic day for me.

Mercury: You look it, yeah.

Mercury: You went out and do what you needed to?

Charon: Mm… and then I met up with Esperanto.

Mercury: Did you get your apology?

Charon: Didn’t feel like it but.. I’ve taken an invite to train with them.

Mercury: Really? Were they polite about it?

Opera: God no.

Mercury: Not surprised. They’re not really abusive toward folks they pick up but…

Mercury: If they think they have to press hard to get you to learn the thing, they will.

Charon: The kid with them-

Mercury: Bern? Also don’t call her that in front of her, she’d get heated.

Charon: Mm, Bern. Is she-

Mercury: Not quite. More of an assistant than anything.

Mercury: Why?

Charon: Just checking.

Mercury: Would be good to make friends with her regardless, think she could give a lot of advice on how to get on Esp’s good side.

Charon: I’ll work on it…

Charon: Why the whole secrecy thing anyway? The disguise, the illusion magic.

Mercury: It’s their specialty I guess. Saw their true form?

Charon: Maybe. Finding out they’re a fiend explains a lot.

Mercury: Didn’t realize?

Charon: What do you mean?

Mercury: Don’t fiends like… have a radar for each other a bit?

Charon: No? Not that I know of.

Mercury: Ah…

Charon: Somehow in a single fight they triggered something in my body.

Charon: Now I’m going through some sort of metamorphosis state where I feel like I’m going to have to either pass or fail…

Mercury: Mm..

Mercury: Be honest, you think they’re gonna be too hard on you?

Charon: They push a bit harder than I’d like.

Mercury: Then I’m going to ask if I can be there to couch during your training sessions.

Mercury: I’m your first mentor after all.

Charon: Not my first technically but-

Mercury: But I was here before. Taught you two and Geezer how to play your parts back then and you went above and beyond what I could’ve imagined from a group of kids.

Charon: Yes well…

Opera: I mean..

Opera: Back then you just wanted us to know how to defend ourselves if the church managed to bust down our doors…

Opera: And we did.

Mercury: And a lot more than anyone should ever have to ask from a child frankly.

Mercury: Never wanted you three to have to play soldier but… you took down what’s effectively a god.

Mercury: Can’t take too much credit for that myself but I do wanna oversee where one of my students goes from here, you know?

Mercury: And I figure I can get them to ease up on you. Esperanto won’t go full piano instructor if someone else is there to frown at them.

Charon: Don’t you have prep to do of your own? A couple of weeks isn’t much to prepare for a heist this big.

Mercury: I’m here to do the same job as I did back then, get everyone into gear and play the role of muscle if I gotta.

Mercury: Feels so weird to see all of you so grown up though. Was 24 when we met. All this time displacement stuff though like…

Mercury: How old are you two?

Charon: 24. 14 when we met.

Opera: 26. 15 when we met.

Mercury: 28 currently. That fucks with me.

Mercury: I heard Erica’s a senior now. That’s really weird too. She’s just older than me by around triple.

Charon: Mm…

Mercury: And… is Arabis still around?

Charon: He is.

Mercury: First generation fiends also got me messed up.

Mercury: Remember him claiming to be centuries old back then. Dude was still looking hell pretty for an ancient.

Charon: We stay at our physical peak for way longer than a lot of other species. Even being only partially fiend… I’ll probably live to be 150 if I play my cards right.

Mercury: Lots of time to write books.

Charon: Plenty.

Mercury: I wanna do that some day, much as I like the life of an adventurer.

Charon: That so?

Mercury: Yeah.

Opera: We haven’t heard much about how you’ve been doing, wanna sit down and share?

Mercury: Let me grab a drink and I’ll be ready to talk.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Mercury grabbed herself some juice from the fridge and sat herself down at the nearby bar setup.

Mercury: Got no luck with getting rid of our curse, but at this point I’ll figure out whatever comes at me I think.

Mercury: Been picked up on and off to do work overseas, that’s how I met Esperanto.

Mercury: And of course been trying to do my best to make things better here in Plaza.

Mercury: I know Geezer’s been doing plenty of the same.

Charon: Mm… I know he cares a lot about the region, he grew up here.

Mercury: Can’t help but feel a bit protective of your childhood home.

Mercury: With all the issues it has, you only want to make things better.

Opera: You’re talking about the buyout stuff, yeah?

Mercury: Yep. A big chunk of the region got bought out by corpos from outside the region and ended up repurposed for tourists.

Mercury: And I don’t mind folks visiting, there’s a lot of culture here to appreciate… but they’re not here for that. They’re here for the theme parks that keep getting more and more expensive til the locals can’t even afford to go.

Mercury: They come for the “cleaned out” parts that have coffee shops in every corner.

Mercury: Don’t really respect the people born here or the hardships everyone faces so their vacations can be nice and wonderful.

Mercury: But I digress, now I’m just rambling.

Charon: You’re fine, I like hearing you talk.

Opera: Yeah.

Mercury: You sure? Guess I did warn you both…

Mercury: Biggest concern is that some cult from Taverne might spread their influence overseas too. Use this place as a hideout when things get too hot.

Charon: You’re talking about Spit’s cult.

Mercury: Mmhmm..

Charon: I’m in the business of cracking down on them as best I can.

Charon: After everything that happened back in the pocket there were rumors that folks converted over from the church.

Mercury: No kidding?

Charon: Church was up to all sorts of forbidden sciences, especially against people like me.

Charon: Can’t afford to see a repeat happen at home.

Charon: Grandma Erica’s put a lot of time into keeping cults at bay herself but… they’re just too massive to shut down so long as Spit’s around

Charon: Best we can do is curb it into irrelevance.

Opera: They don’t know about the fiend harvest, do they?

Charon: Hard to say, but knowing this auction is coming up… there’s a chance.

Charon: If they discover the husk, we will see fiends being abducted left and right…

Charon: I can’t risk that. For my family, for the many who’ve felt rejected enough by society as is.

Charon: For as powerful our reputation is… most of us are in hiding.

Charon: When you’re a fiend your body functions so differently, and I have to hide that often.

Charon: Fear of the stigmas around us.

Opera: You know.. Fiends aren’t really a common thing where I come from.

Opera: So I’ve gotta wonder what that means exactly.

Charon: By folks old fashioned, we’re very much seen as bad omens. Signs of a conflict to come, of chaos. We’re looked at as patchworks of lost souls raging against a common foe. Last part’s no entirely wrong…

Charon: A creature that’s strong, durable, capable of drinking blood and shapeshifting… it scares everyone even if most of us just want a peaceful life.

Charon: First generation fiends hunt those who wronged them but… after we’re left with nothing to really pursue. Many become wanderers or hermits because anything else seems impossible..

Charon: And for descendents like myself, we still are seen with a touch of stigma carried over. Who would be gross enough to have kids with such a creature after all?

Charon: Sucks, really.

Opera: Mm…

Opera: I feel some of it too.

Opera: My dad was a proximity, you familiar with those?

Charon: I had a few close neighbors growing up.

Opera: Then you know. Bunch of magical birds, in touch with witchcraft in ways that aren’t always as cute to people.

Opera: That’s how I got Paige, just showed up naturally.

Mercury: That happens?

Opera: Mmhmm! Very common with proximities. My family life was never great but growing up as a weird kid who talked to ghosts, who people kept making theories about. Hated it.

Opera: My dad didn’t hide anything, so people would make up stories about how he tributed off corpses or how his family are all homunculi he made under contracts.

Opera: People kept asking if I was a real cat…

Charon: Mm…

Charon: It’s tiring.

Charon: My neighbors and I were lucky that we’d been normalized in the town we grew up in somewhat…

Charon: But we all felt pinned there at times. Leaving to go to the neighboring areas was asking for trouble.

Charon: If it wasn’t for my knight’s license… I don’t know if I’d feel comfortable leaving home.

Opera: Not even for us?

Mercury: Yeah.

Charon: If you promised to stick with me, I’d make an exception.

There was a knock on the doorway. Everyone turned over to see Bern.

Mercury: I didn’t know you were in town.

Bern: Sup Merc! I’ve just been busy. Guess I’m part of the team?

Bern: Esperanto’s coming soon, they’re just busy talking to our investor for this job.

Bern looked over to you directly.

Bern: You really remind me of them, no wonder they’ve got an interest in you.

Bern: You mind if I join in on this? Got a few things to say.

Charon: Go ahead…

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Bern: So, you’re a fiend too?

Charon: Aye.

Bern: ‘Wasn’t for those spooky eyes, you wouldn’t know. Esperanto’s taught me little things here and there about them, Fiend kids usually blend in pretty well with people.

Bern: You don’t got the normal fiend eyes right now though…

Charon: Aye.

Bern: Scary. You still got the glow but they’re so… dark.

Mercury interrupts.

Mercury: Where’ve you been this whole time by the way?

Mercury: You just been wandering the city?

Bern: A little?

Bern: Esp paid for a hotel nearby before we all met up for the job but they kept me there a bit longer until “I was needed”

Bern: Love them but god they still treat me like a kid sometimes, you know?

Mercury: I’ve worked with them enough to know they usually got a reason for it.

Bern: Yeah…. I know.

Mercury: So be real with me, what’s with the cruelty act?

Bern: Mm?

Mercury: Charon.

Bern: Ah. I mean…. I don’t know if I should talk on that but…

Bern: I promise they’re not usually like that.

Bern: When Geezer was being looked into for the job on recommendation, we went to visit his family home. The knight living there, I think Erica was it? Had a lot of confidence in him. Got told he was visiting Plaza which just seemed perfect timing-wise…

Bern: Charon came up too. Erica had a lot of concerns since he just got licensed as a knight. Said he worked really hard for that but I guess Esperanto took that as like…

Bern: I dunno.

Charon: A challenge?

Bern: Yeah, probably.

You pause in thought for a moment, picking your next few words wisely.

Charon: That why Geezer and I got recruited together?

Bern: Yeah, two in one.

Opera: That’s… not correct?

Bern: What do you mean?

Opera: I was just told that Geezer would be here. Was surprised to see Charon too.

Bern: Nah, Erica said they both were going to be here for Darkest Night together.

Bern: Made it easy to just scoop up things-

Charon: Why was I asked about in the first place?

Bern goes dead silent.

Charon: The list of people here, Rosario aside, are primarily those from the pocket incident.

Charon: Merc, how’d you meet Esperanto?

Mercury: Through a recommendation from Erica, never met her in person since back then but Esp came to me while over here looking for some muscle for a job.

Charon: She kept tabs on you?

Mercury: Guess so, weird really..

Charon: That sounds like her…

Bern: Maybe you were a last minute addition? We only got news of you and Geezer’s plaza trip recently.

Charon: Erica is the reason I wasn’t on the list.

Bern’s eyes widen up, shadows in the room starting to stir with many gazes.

Charon: She picked the roster.

Charon: She knows a lot of people but she picked those that’d have personal stake in this.

Charon: Except for me.

Charon: And despite that, Esperanto chose to withhold details in order to recruit me as well.

Charon: The only reason to do something like that is if there was a personal motive.

Charon: They claim to be a family friend but they’re obviously way more than that at this point.

You look Bern right in the eye.

Bern: Back the fuck off dude.

Charon: Why all the hiding-

You’re cut off as someone enters the room.

Esperanto: To spare your feelings, but it’s too late for that it seems.

Esperanto: Erica did tell me not to recruit you. I did ask her specifically for the roster because she knew people who’d put everything into this job.

Esperanto: I did keep you a secret so we could hire you without her knowing.

Esperanto: And you’re not going to say a thing of it to her until this job is done.

Charon:... Why didn’t she pick me?

Esperanto: Inexperience, volatile performance in the past, fear of you becoming too emotionally difficult to work.

Esperanto: Nothing I can’t sort out with the right training.

Charon: And why are you so personally invested in me?

Esperanto: You’re smart, you tell me.

Charon: Why couldn’t you just be honest then?

Esperanto: Say it first.

Esperanto: If you’re afraid to guess wrong, you have no business being here.

Charon:....

Esperanto: Swallow your pride, say it.

Charon: You’re Bucket Judgment.

Esperanto: That’s good. Keep it under wraps.

Charon: …

Esperanto: You knew this for awhile now, why go quiet?

Charon:... Grandma Erica really did blacklist me

Esperanto: Doesn’t matter, you’re here.

Esperanto: I’m going to train you up.

Esperanto: Do for you what she never did.

Esperanto:... Are you not excited?

Charon:....

Esperanto: Charon?

You feel Opera slip a hand into yours.

Opera: Hey, I’m here…

Charon: Can we go find Geezer?

Charon: I want to talk about something, just the three of us…

Opera: Yeah… think he’s just napping.

She holds your hand tight.

Opera: Mercury.

Mercury: Yeah, I got a few words to say right now. You two scoot out.

Opera: Thank you….

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Opera leads you through the hallways up to Geezer’s door. She gives it a gentle knock, enough to grab his attention.

Opera: Hey, you there?

Geezer: Give me a minute.

He creeks the door open, face wilting as he takes a good look at you.

Geezer: Shit dude, everything okay?

Charon: Want this day to end, honestly.

Geezer: Come inside yeah, both of ya’ll. You can talk to me as much as you need.

The two of you scoot inside, Geezer offering you both a seat on his bed.

You take it without hesitation, your body arching and your legs struggling.

There’s a noticeable wobble as you sit down, Opera helping you ease your landing.

Geezer: You overextended, did you bring your cane?

Charon: Left it in the other room…

Opera: I can go get it-

Charon: Later, I’m not getting up for a bit.

Charon: Sorry to wake you up…

Geezer: Wasn’t able to get much sleep anyway, got a lot on my mind right now too.

Charon: Aye, the trial from earlier?

Geezer: Yeah… Don’t know what to make of any of that honest. Like… I dunno.

Geezer: No offense intended but having Styx around again gives me bad feelings.

Charon: Didn’t think he could come back.

Geezer: Yeah, I know. Just… fuck dude.

Charon: Sorry…

Geezer: You didn’t do a thing.

Charon: My fault we ever ran into him to begin with-

Geezer: We were kids, never once had any hard feelings toward you.

Geezer: And even if I did, forgave you a long ass time ago..

Charon: Mm…

Geezer: Him though? Hate to say it but I got beef and he’s gonna have to do a lot to make things good between us.

Geezer: Not quite a grudge or anything like that though but…

Geezer: You both get what I mean?

Opera: I do. Don’t like his eyes at all.

Opera: Awful creature…

Charon: I’m avoiding any deals if I can help it.

Geezer: Good.

Charon: But…

Opera: But?

Charon: With all that said, I’m trying to improve terms with him, for however long we’re stuck together at least.

Charon: We’re linked in a way where I’m not sure I can remove him so easily.

Charon: If at all…

Charon: Guess it comes back to the reason I’m here right now.

Geezer: Yeah, sorry to like, derail-

Charon: You’re fine.

Geezer: You sure?

Charon: Yeah, we’re all having a time.

Geezer: So what happened while I was resting exactly?

Charon: Bern, Esperanto’s friend walked in and we had a talk.

Geezer: About?

Charon: A lot. How I reminded her of them, how the two of them went around handling the recruitment for this job.

Charon: Spoke a bit too much, Esperanto stepped in directly.

Charon: Erica was involved with making the list.

Geezer: Huh…. guess that makes more sense than Ali but… they’d never work together like that.

Charon: Not without a middleman. Got bombarded with a lot.

Charon: Erica actively chose against my inclusion here which…

Charon: I have a lot of feelings on.

Geezer: You know how she is… thought she’d ease up by now though.

Charon: She probably would’ve but… Esperanto is one of us.

Geezer: A Judgment? I mean I’m not surprised with everything…

Charon: Mmhmm.. family.

Geezer: What way?

Charon: Bucket.

Geezer: Really?

Charon: Esperanto is Bucket.

Geezer:...Are they you’re-

Charon: I’m pretty sure.

Geezer: Fuck…

Charon: Never gotten to meet my parents in person..

Charon: Asked Erica about it plenty of times but she’s always been tight lipped on things.

Charon: Don’t understand why either of them could just… be forward about this.

Charon: Never knowing where I came from..

Charon: And when I finally do find out it’s a whole game.

Charon: Wish Erica just… let me know.

Charon: Would tell me why I can’t meet them just once.

Charon: Or that Bucket just told me without this whole song and dance.

Opera: No offense but… you really gotta have a big talk with your family.

Opera: Is it always like this?

Geezer: You have no idea.

Opera: Like… I had a lot of respect for Erica before this…

Opera: And Bucket? Esperanto? Has to do a lot before they get any from me.

Opera: Like…

Opera: You’re not still training with them, are you?

Charon: Depends on what they say next really.

Opera: Mercury’s giving them the talk, that’s their last chance to figure their shit out.

Geezer: Yoooo, Mercury’s scolding them?

Opera: Mmhmm.

Charon: Don’t really need her to do that for me… I just need a break right now.

Opera: Yeeeeah..

She leaned her head on your shoulder before glancing over at Geezer

Opera: We’re in the city you know, lots to do.

Opera: We got a rabbit who knows all the best spots in town.

Geezer: Maybe. Actually do got something you might both be into.

Charon: Oh?

Geezer: Charon, you and Platino are pretty tight yeah?

Charon: Mm.. a little.

Geezer: He actually invited me over to meet up with him and a couple of others to hang out a bit. You both in the mood?

Opera: Is it really okay for us to be there? I mean I’m game for it.

Charon: Same.

Geezer: I can message him but he’ll probably be down. Get into some fresh clothes, enjoy the season.

Opera: Holiday treats sound good right now.

Her proxy peeked its head up from her shoulder before making unintelligible squeaking.

Opera: Paige can cover expenses.

Geezer:..Paige has money?

Opera: Don’t you?

Geezer: No.

Geezer: I’m gonna have to take… him? 

Opera: It’s whatever he’s feeling at the moment honestly.

Geezer: I’ll take him up on that.

Charon: Me too. I’ll still try to pitch in where I can.

Geezer: Sounds good. I’ll just check in with Platino and we’ll be on our way soon.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

The three of you don’t need to talk too far before you reach busy streets filled with tented setups, floating decor, and costume vendors selling hot food.

The towns near the woods you grew up with had their own celebrations and festivals but never did they seem to just endlessly go down the trails of road ahead of you like this.

Opera: People here take Darkest Night pretty seriously…

Geezer: Yeah, Plaza puts their everything into holidays but especially this one, you know?

Opera: Love it, but guess that’s no big surprise..

Geezer: Anything like this where you came from?

Opera: Depends really, travel a lot so I’ve seen plenty of different kinds of Darkest Night festivals. The vibes here though are just so nice…

Geezer: We do what we can. Charon?

Charon: First time being off continent, it’s a lot.

Geezer: Good or bad kind?

Charon: More the first, might be a bit much for me but we’ll see.

Geezer: You need to go back? I can walk with you-

Charon: No, I want to give this a try.

Charon: Need a break from everything. Moment I go back I know Esperanto’s going to want to talk to me.

Geezer: Yeah…

Charon: I’ll let you know though.

Geezer: Aye.

Charon: So this is where you grew up?

Geezer: Mmhmm.

Charon: So much bigger than back home. You were really allowed to go wherever you wanted?

Geezer: Nobody could stop me so… yeah.

Geezer: Amazing how little it’s all changed though. Not a bad thing at all just..

Geezer: Guess I’m excited to show ya’ll both this place so close to how I remember it.

You manage a smile, if only because you know this means a ton to hm.

Charon: I’m glad to be part of this.

Opera: Same here! Makes me wish Paige and I came in costume…

Geezer: There’s plenty of time, Darkest Night is month long in Plaza.

Opera: Makes me wonder what Year’s End looks like.

Geezer: Come back in a couple of months and I’ll show you.

Geezer: For now we’re just looking for Platino, think he’s just as excited about this.

Charon: Imagine him and Zana are both pretty big on it.

Geezer: Yeah, it’s a huge witch holiday.

Geezer: Speaking of, you feel any different?

Charon: Me?

Geezer: Yeah.

Charon: In what way.

Geezer: In like, a magic way?

Charon:... Maybe?

Charon: Holding up well all things considered I suppose.

Geezer: That’s the Mori Effect.

Charon: You’ll have to explain that one.

Opera: Same here.

Geezer: Witch magic of all kinds gets stronger for the whole month during Darkest Night, gradually becomes bigger up until the day itself.

Opera: Huh…

Paige peaks its head out of Opera’s cloak.

Opera: You feel any stronger?

The proxy lets out a string of cartoonish chitter and squeaks.

Geezer: What’s Paige saying?

Opera: “Feeling a little more high energy I guess.”

Geezer: Might take a bit to become really noticeable.

The proxy continues another string.

Opera: “I’ll keep you updated.” He says.

Geezer: Aye.. Tell him I wanna know if anything interesting happens.

Opera: He can understand you just fine.

Geezer: Ah, sorry..

Geezer: Gotta ask like…

Geezer: And you don’t have to answer this.

Opera:... Okay?

Geezer: Is Paige actually saying anything?

Opera: Hmm? Of course he is.

Geezer: Like, with the squeaks.

Opera: Yeah I don’t hear those, most people do but he just sounds normal to me.

Geezer: Huh…

Geezer: Is it a proxy thing?

Opera: Probably.

Opera: Some people seem to understand him fine though?

Geezer: Bet he sounds adorable.

The proxy begins to chirp violently.

Charon: That….

Geezer: What did he say?

Opera: Yeah, I’m not repeating that around kids.

Geezer: Ah, sorry…

Geezer starts shifting for his phone.

Geezer: I’m gonna check where Platino is quickly..

You reach a hand toward Paige.

Charon: Mind if I…?

Paige lowers its head down, letting you pet him just a little.

Your proxy appears out of nowhere and proceeds to nuzzle your arm.

Opera: Looks like someone else needs attention right now.

Charon: Never had that happen before…

Opera: You’re just barely opening up to your proxy, right?

Charon: Suppose so…

Opera: It’s getting braver too.

Charon: Mm..

Opera: Should try letting it walk with you tonight, think it’d like that.

Charon: Think so too… to be honest, been thinking plenty about how you and Paige interact.

Charon: Feel that’s a good goal to aim for overtime…

Opera: I mean, I can help you if you want.

Charon: You’d be okay with that?

Opera: Mmhmm! We can start tonight, a festival’s a good place to connect with your proxy a bit.

Charon: That’d be welcome right now…

Opera reaches out a hand to pet your proxy, Paige seems to bristle up a little on contact.

Opera: Huh…

Charon: Something wrong?

Opera: No, just-

Geezer cuts you both off.

Geezer: Heads up, cousins are here. We should greet them.

Opera: This can wait a sec, let’s go handle that first.

Charon: Aye.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

TAROT
[Minus Arcana]
CW: None
Perspective: Charon

 A weekday morning, your Grandmother is out for work.

She used to bring you along to help out where you could but lately it’s been a lot to keep up with. Woodland villages tend to be like that, especially one as storied as you’re current location.

As the town’s local knight and sole active member at the Judgment guild, she’s got her hands dipped regularly in local affairs. Weird creatures getting into food storage, repairing structures, resolving struggling marriages.

Despite the namesake of the job being one of cavalry and heroics, a large portion of the daily grind is taking care of the people around you.

And in return, you’re kept afloat as well.

In times like these, you can only stand staying home for so long before you grow tired.

Especially since your education is massively on hold while she’s juggling so much.

You find pockets of knowledge in your own way though, your youthful curiosity drawn toward the local witching shop that’s been around since before you can remember.

Bleu and Blanc’s Cauldron, run by the Blanc-Bleu family.

Any day you’re free, you head straight toward it after breakfast. The shelves are filled with strange objects and books archiving generations of knowledge on how to deal with the supernatural.

Tending to odd beasts, making life easier for the people, occasionally you’ll find something about yourself and your fiendish attributes.

You lurk around the shop searching for a good read and settling at the small corner dedicated to allowing people to get comfortable with a hot drink.

It isn’t long before the shopkeeper makes her way over to take a peek.

Sanguine: Morning Charon.

Charon: Morning Mrs. Blanc…

Sanguine: Didn’t even say hi before getting up to your usual.

Charon: Right, sorry…

Sanguine: I don’t mind too much, appreciate the eagerness.

Charon: Mm..

Sanguine: Erica know you’re here?

Charon: She kinda figures.

Sanguine: Suppose this has become your spot as of late. Not that I mind at all, the Judgments are always welcome here.

Charon: Mm…

You’re not much for words right now, focused on your reading at the moment. She leans in to peek at the pages.

Sanguine. Enchanting materials, hmm? What got you interested there?

Charon: Just… something that sounds helpful.

Sanguine:  Oh?

Charon: You know, for the Judgment house. Maybe I could make something Grandma can use.

Charon: Not sure what but… something helpful I guess.

Sanguine: Mm..

Charon: Guess that’s pretty hard though, most of the family’s far out. Not that many knights these days either.

Charon: Uncle Virgil is pretty much retired, Xolo is off overseas…

Sanguine: Could do something for Ali.

Charon: Don’t know about that.

Charon: Her and Grandma Erica fight a lot..

Charon: Actual fighting.

Sanguine: Suppose so..

Charon: Wouldn’t be a good idea.

Sanguine: Doesn’t have to be a weapon. Could be a nice blanket.

Charon: I guess… you know her?

Sanguine: Grew up with her and your grandma, course I do.

Sanguine: Maybe not as much these days but…she drops by the shop when she visits.

Charon: Were you friends?

Sanguine: Like to think so.

Sanguine: Those two had it pretty rough growing up honestly…. So we did what we could.

Sanguine: Guess that’s a topic for you to talk about with your Grandma though, her history to share.

Charon: Right…

Charon: Maybe when I’m older…

Sanguine: She tell you that?

Charon: Mmhmm..

Sanguine: Figures… Is what it is.

Sanguine: What got you interested in this shop so much anyway?

Charon: I like making things, even if I’m not that good at it..

Charon: Guess it’s different from what I’m used to. Knight work is all about taking care of what’s there, but witches build it in the first place a lot of the time.

Charon: And they’re good at finding ways to fix problems. So maybe it’d be good to bring that sort of thing home…

Sanguine: It’s a pretty different career path, even if they cross quite a bit.

Charon: Mm.. I know.

Sanguine: If you had to pick…

Charon: Uh…

Charon: I guess witch sounds cool but…

Charon: Grandma worries a lot about the Judgment House.

Charon: So I kind of want to do what makes things better for everyone.

Charon: But I dunno. Grandma hasn’t talked to me much about knight training.

Charon: Takes me with her to work a lot but…

Sanguine: You don’t need to be a knight to be part of a guild.

Charon: Guess so.

Sanguine: Plenty who’ve implemented the craft into knight work.

Sanguine: Tipp of the Revolution, The Greensmith, Ibarra of Tiles…

Charon: Mm..

Charon: People talk about knights more though…

Sanguine: Knights also retire earlier, your grandma’s just special.

Sanguine: A bit of expertise in witchcraft means you’ll always find work somewhere.

Charon: Yeah… maybe I can be both?

Sanguine: Lot of work ahead of you but… don’t see why not?

Charon: Mm.. I wanna try.

Sanguine: Hmm..

Sanguine: Could talk to Erica about setting you up as an apprentice here during days where she leaves you home. Already teaching Rosso, it wouldn't be hard to add one more. Do good enough and I’ll gladly give you hours when you’re old enough to work too.

Sanguine: I’ll grab us some hot chocolate before we keep talking though, hang on…

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

TAROT REVERSAL
[Minus Arcana B Side]
CW: None
Perspective: Manzana

 You step inside the store tucked deeply in the alley you’ve been wandering for a bit.

This city is a labyrinth, one that you really shouldn’t be wandering on your own the further you dig in.

But… you’re fine.

You’re confronted with a rather cozy looking place. Well loved clothes and objects in every inch, what appeared to be a dining hall with a fireplace setup… a schedule for events, a board that had signups for rooming…

You wonder why a place like this exists so out of the way.

The shopkeeper gives you a warm welcome.

???: Good morning!

Manzana: Morning…

???: Need anything?

Manzana: Not really, just looking around.

???: Take your time then, let me know if you do.

Manzana: Mm…

Manzana: Actually, got a question. If uh, that’s okay?

???: Go fo it.

Manzana: What is this place exactly?

???: Mm?

Manzana: Like.. uh..

???: Are you from out of town?

Manzana: Mmhmm.. Plaza.

???: That’d do it then. That’s a long ways out.

???: You’re with someone else, right? Seem a bit young to be on your own.

Manzana: Here with my mom, but she’s busy with work right now.

Manzana: So what is this place?

???: Historically? A safehouse. Though these days it’s really just a thrift store with a few services attached.

???: Bit of a product of the old country, these sort of places set up shop in regions like this one as a hub for immigrants and travelers. Back then they were made as a means for revolutionists to take shelter during the wartime.

???: Thankfully not the case right now.

Manzana: That why it’s so out of the way?

Manzana: Entrance isn’t on the main streets.

???: Mmhmm..

???: Feel free to look around as much as you’d like while you’re here.

You look up at the walls and see plenty of old timey photos, plaques, and the occasional broken weapon up on display.

???: Got a name?

Manzana: Manzana.

???: Like an apple?

Manzana: Guess so, yeah. What about you?

???: Trade.

Trade: You can stick around here as much as you’d like. Got a lot of regulars your age who show up, might be good to meet them.

Manzana: Local kids?

Trade: Yeah. Some picking up stuff for their folks, a few who don’t really got a home otherwise.

Trade: The safehouses in town are all in touch with each other, we try to make sure folks don’t have to sleep on the streets…

Manzana: Mm…

You linger on that for a while.

It wasn’t that far back that you were in this position yourself.

Somehow the idea seems unpleasant to you though, not that you thought yourself above it. Moreso…

Guilt?

It was really a chance encounter that your adoptive mother took you in. She saw potential in you, your tinkering with witchcraft catching her attention.

It was really nothing that special, Plaza was a region where it was part of the culture, and ultimately the layman’s means of interacting with the more fantastical parts of life in a mundane way.

But…

Trade: Something on your mind?

Manzana: Is it really okay if I stay here a bit?

Trade: Why wouldn’t it be?

Manzana: I’m not from town, my mom and I are staying at a nearby apartment while working. Don’t really need to be here…

Trade: Your mom left you at the house alone and you’ve wandered out, right?

Manzana: Yeah…

Trade: You’re always better off sitting down for a meal at a safehouse than potentially getting hurt on the busy roads.

Manzana: I mean that’s why I’m here I guess..

Manzana: How much to eat?

Trade: What you can afford, free even. These days the town puts a decent amount of money into this place but a donation helps if you can.

Trade: Though right now the kitchen’s on break so you’ll have to wait a good hour for it to open back up. Hope that’s okay.

Manzana: Yeah…

Trade: In the meantime…

The bug pulls a pamphlet out of the counter desk and slides it along.

Manzana: What’s this?

Trade: Chart of where all the old safehouses are located in the area. If you’re wandering around again, use the local landmarks to help you track one down to rest at.

Trade: Probably not too exciting for you but…

You pocket the map, folding it nice and neat before tucking it away.

Manzana: Thank you…

Manzana: So uh, what’s all this stuff on the wall?

Trade: Oh god, whole lot of history behind that.

Trade: Might be a bit of a long story. The Swords rebellion, The Post War Crash, the Rebuild, whole lot..

Manzana: I got time.

Trade: You sure?

Manzana: Mmhmm!

Trade: If you’re sure.

Trade: Should be some self serve items left over from our breakfast shift that haven’t been stored yet. Go ahead and treat yourself first before I talk your ear out.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

THE SHOT
[Festive Session, Part 1]
CW: None
Perspective: Charon

 

Platino: Ey! Ya’ll made it!

Geezer does a little salute.

Geezer: Plat yeah? We don’t talk much.

Platino: Really should. I see Charon and uh…

Opera: Opera.

Platino: Yeah! New to me! Don’t think we’ve talked proper at all actually, Zana’s been the one in the front around you two. Glad ya’ll showed up.

A dragon-like construct waves from behind the rabbit, trying to catch your group’s attention.

???: Sup?

Geezer: Yo. Seen you before I think, yeah?

???: Probably in the background yeah.

???: Needle, work with Zana sometimes. I’ve seen you a couple times, her Cousin.

Geezer: Aye.

Needle:  And you three are… friends?

Geezer: I mean yeah?

Charon: Geezer and I are family, albeit extended.

Opera: Situation’s complicated?

Needle: Feel it.

She leans into Plat’s shoulder.

Needle: You both got some cool folks, you know?

Platino: Yeah. Zana’s a little conflicted on it but hey.

Charon: Speaking of, is she coming out at all today?

Platino: Yeah no she’s just being a little shy, doesn’t get to do this much. Ya’ll will see her sooner or later. Was gonna go out as myself but uh.. Kinda ran out of energy to do that while working on a few side projects. Zana was nice and let me pick what to wear so…

Platino: Love the outfit by the way, make that cape?

Charon: My several times great grandfather did actually, bit of a gift when I first set out.

Charon: He sends me custom pieces every once in awhile…

Needle: Is he alive…?

Geezer: Yeah, he’s fiendish.

Needle: Like a vampire or… are all of you fiends actually?

Geezer: Nah just Charon.

Needle: Ah. Shame.

Geezer: What does that mean?

She gives Platino a look. He makes a goofy grin back at her.

Needle: I wouldn’t worry about it. All of you got fashionista vibes honestly though, gotta set me up with whatever your family’s doing.

Opera: You don’t want it.

Needle: You don’t know that. I know Geezer was from here originally, guessing Charon’s from Tavern?

Charon: Nailed it.

Needle: And Opera…

Opera: Also Taverne.

Needle:... Really?

Opera: Yep! It’s um..

Opera: Lot of things we’re gonna respond with “complicated” probably. We’re uh…

Needle: I mean you’re all in the field, I get it. Know I’m a good amount of that too.

Platino: Nah.

Needle: I am! But it’s fine!

Needle: Also good seeing another witch out here, bit of a family thing too?

Charon: Mmm.

Needle: Cool, you work at any lab overseas?

Charon: No, more of a guild type personally.

Needle: Ahh, a double major. Got it.

Platinto: Think that’d be a dual degree actually? How’s that work with apprenticeship-

Geezer makes a gesture directly at Platino.

Platino: Questions for another time.

Platino: This everyone?

Charon: Should be, why?

Platino: Just checking. Know there’s a whole bunch more back at the base, figured you’d all come together.

Geezer: Pretty sure they’re going to find their own plans, we’ll get more chances.

Geezer: Darkest Night is a month long deal.

Needle: Mmhmm! Good shit. So uh… what’s the plan?

Platino: Hmm.. I mean uh..

Platino: Figured we’d just play it by ear? I dunno.

Platino: Just a heads up uh..

The rabbit looks directly at you.

Platino: You’re wearing your guild pin out here?

Charon: Is that a problem?

Platino: Maybe? Like uh..

Needle: Should we tell him?

Geezer: Yeah you should.

Charon: Oh?

Platino: On Darkest Night around these parts, wearing your mark’s a bit of a hazard.

Geezer: Old school duelist tradition around here.

Platino: If two knights meet, one’s allowed to formally challenge another in the circle where they spar for the crowd in memory of the 32. Bit of a historic thing.

Platino: Doesn’t come up much cause knights aren’t really common out here these days, Mori’s pretty hands on when it come to this area but..

Platino: You never know.

Charon: Geezer?

Geezer: Neveractually happened to me but you fought a lot today so…

Charon: Not worried, honest.

Opera: You were so tired earlier…

Charon: It’s different.

Opera: Oh?

Charon: The crowd loves me, I have to commit

Opera: Charon please…

Geezer: Can’t stop him. Theater kid at heart.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Charon: People really go all out here…

Opera: Darkest Night is like that, least in most big cities.

Geezer: Nah, here people go hard in their own way.

Geezer: It’s a pretty meaningful time for everyone.

Needle: Mm! For a lot of folks old enough, Darkest Night’s treated like the end of the year.

Needle: The end of Fall and Winter are seen as sort of the start?

Opera: Never seen that take on it before.

Platino: Yeah well… Plaza’s got a lot of history to it, you know?

Platino: Folks who introduced the holiday here were witchy types from overseas, in some older sections of the culture it’s the point where you heal so the next year starts strong.

Platino: The god who overseas the day here is a pretty notable witch themselves.

Geezer: Mori yeah. They’re good people. Only god around here who really gives a damn honest.

Needle: You know them?

Geezer: Met them a few times, got in on a bit of a local initiative and all to sort of preserve the place. Lots of outside businesses are interested in this place. Good for trade and opportunities to build relationships off island but uh..

Geezer: Not everyone’s looking at it like they should, you know?

Geezer: Plaza is home to a bunch of people who’ve been through a lot.

Geezer: Mori does as much as she can to make sure the locals get to celebrate peacefully in this time.

Geezer: Had a few incidents where tourists didn’t respect altars much. Don’t wanna repeat.

Geezer: Spirits are said to walk around here for awhile, the closer to the final day the more they blend in with the people.

Geezer: Is what it is.

Charon: People do that?

Geezer: Yeah, it’s kinda fucked. Guess you’ve never seen a big one though, yeah?

Charon: Just the little one by the Blancs’ house.

Opera: This your first time celebrating Darkest Night away from home?

Charon: Mmm…  first time celebrating any holiday away.

Charon: Erica had plans so… I figured I’d go with Geezer at least.

Charon: In hindsight it’s probably related to what we’re doing right now…

Charon: Any of you have someone you’re paying tribute to?

Platino: Not really. Been lucky.

Needle: Don’t know too many people.

Opera: Honestly almost forgot with everything going on…

Opera: Feels weird to do that so far from home though…

Geezer: More than welcome here.

Opera: Gotta think on it but…

Opera: Wouldn’t be stepping on anyone’s toes at all?

Geezer: Nah. Just you know..  It’s a healing process for a lot of people.

Opera: Yeah. Like that back home.

Geezer: You get it.

Opera: So uh.. Where are we heading exactly tonight?

Opera: Just winging it?

Needle: Maybe! Plat?

Platino: I mean Zana might wanna meet up with a special someone tonight.

Platino: Just check in on stuff.

Needle: Still need to introduce me.

Geezer: Yeah…

Platino: She’s really sorry about shooting you…

Geezer: Not mad, I get it.

Geezer: We uh..

Geezer: Get into a lot of scraps.

Platino: It’s a habit, she’s not used to folks sticking around.

Platino: And our mom would kill you so… she figured it was a mercy?

Platino: I spoke against it for the record.

Charon: Do have to ask…

Platino: Go for it.

Charon: What exactly is our relationship?

Platino: We settled on cousins, yeah? God feels weird to call someone else that actually, don’t usually think about how big the family actually is.Anyway, don’t get where you’re going with this.

Charon: Erica is my grandmother. Adopted Geezer as well under the same role effectively.

Platino looks over at Geezer.

Platino: You call her Grandma?

Geezer:What she preferred.

Platino: Okay. Go on.

Charon: But you and Zana call Ali your mom.

Platino: Right.

Charon: Your mother and my grandmother are sisters, yes?

Platino: I mean yeah?

Charon: So… you’d be my Uncle? And Zana would be my Aunt?

Platino: I mean she’s never really officially asked me to call her anything so..

Platino: Cousin is fine? Like I guess Grandma would be just as valid as with Geezer and Erica so.

Platino: I dunno….

Geezer: Wait, are you the one calling her your mom…?

Platino: Pretty much, never right to her face though.

Platino: She’d be pissed if I call her grandma. Doesn’t like the idea of being seen as old, you know?

Platino: But mom kinda explains our situation to other people well.

Platino: Be honest with you, her own actual kids don’t really call her mom either.

Opera: Isn’t she like… 80? That’s pretty old.

Geezer: Fiend years.

Opera: Okay how do those work?

Charon: Inconsistently.

Opera: Okay so..

Charon: 1st Generation fiends are basically born adults under most circumstances. They’re composed of the people who they formed around and they become a somewhat collective people of experiences and emotions.

Opera: Okay but what about after that?

Charon: Volatile.

Opera: In your case?

Charon: Hell. Went through early childhood normally, basically didn’t hit puberty til close to adulthood. Rapid growth spurts up to 19

Charon: Currently in my adult state at 24, hitting a second form of puberty right now.

Charon: Possibly a third depending on how this one goes.

Charon: Lifespan could be anywhere from about 150 to 300 really.

Opera:... So you’re gonna be like one of those anime dracula dads in 30 years.

Charon: I don’t know what that means.

Opera: You know like uh… actually is that game even out here? What’s the newest game you can think of?

Charon: Ocelot.

Opera: Never heard of it.What about ten years ago?

Geezer: Slipgun 3rd?

Opera:... There’s a third one?

Opera: Oh god…

Opera: I’m gonna go look up some lotto tickets before I go home..

Needle: Wait are you from the past…?

Needle: Doesn’t that fuck things up for everyone if you’re here?

Opera: Different past from yours. Nothing I do here matters.

Needle: Does that mean there’s another Opera here?

Opera: Yep. It’s him.

She points directly toward you. .

Charon: Hello.

Needle: Ah! Um…

Needle:... Does everyone in that family just become a dog or something? How old are you two?

Opera: 26.

Charon: 24.

Needle:... Ah! Okay so it’s not.. Huh.

Needle: Might have to write some notes… you mind helping me with that sometime?

Needle points directly to your glasses.

Needle: Help a fellow witch, right? I’ll buy you dinner after.

Charon: I’ll consider it. Op?

Opera: Maybe. Looks like you got someone else who wants your attention though.

Charon: Pardon?

Geezer: Turn around.

A masked figure cloaked and with a long striped tail has been lurking over you patiently.

Charon: Is something wrong?

???: Not at all, just noticed your pin and I guess I wanted to ask you something?

Charon: Oh?

???: She extends a hand with a folded note held together by a band.

Geezer: Ah, yeah okay..

Charon: Did I do something wrong…?

???: You know what night it is, right?
 

You grab the note and give it a good look.

Styx: You had this one coming frankly..

Charon: A challenger?

???: Is that alright? If you didn’t know I can pardon it and find someone else but..

???: Suppose I have a good feeling about you. Tavernian, aye?

Charon: Mmhmm..

???: Crowd would love that, two shining champions from opposite sides of the world here to represent the best of their people. Mind I know your by your mantle?

Charon: Judgment. You familiar?

???: Nope, though that’s frankly exciting in its own right.

Charon: You?

???: Spado. Guessing about the same for yourself.

Charon: Mm… pardon me.

Spado: Don’t apologize, by the end of the night we’ll be the talk of the town.

Charon: That does sound inviting.

Spado: So?

Charon: Challenge accepted.
 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

       CW: PTSD, Gore, Graphic Violence against a Child

Geezer makes the way clear on the wide street, people starting to crowd around with a sense of familiarity and routine that you’ve only seen from a Sunday mass.

He gestures toward both you and Spada to settle into your position, crystalline barriers beginning to form around you and your eager opponent.

Spada: What’s all this then?

Geezer: Nobody who’s qualified to monitor this match is here right now, and there’s a risk of a fight dragging in to the crowd so..

Geezer: Mori’s got her blessing live on this island.

Geezer: Consider it a bit of a safety net. Your fight’s kept contained.

Spada: Ah.. never heard of anyone pulling something like that.

Geezer: it’s got a history around here. Surprised you didn’t know though.

Spada: Didn’t think I’d actually be here doing this to be blunt! This going to be safe?

Geezer: Barrier’s got a few other perks. Just a few safety systems in case you two get rowdy.

Sparda: I’ll be careful.

Charon: Mm, same.

Geezer: Gonna ask you both to keep it clean. Worked part time monitoring these fights before while operating on Plaza after all.

Geezer: You got a partner in case things go screwy?

Spada: Me? Nope. Not today at least but I’ll work with what I have.

Charon: Opera.

Opera: Yo, really?

Charon: Mm. Trust you with making the call if I can’t, and Geezer’s better off filling in a ref if one shows up.

Geezer: Yeah,. Can’t be a ref myself since I’ve got a bias here but I can help there.

Geezer gives an apologetic gesture to Spada.

Spada: Don’t take offense, we just met!

Geezer: Yeah, wish more folks understood that on shift.

Geezer: Anyway, final confirmation?

Charon: Mm.

Opera: Can do.

Spada: Of course!

With a little flourish you slip your hand into the void and pull out your trusty forked weapon.

Spada’s tail makes a gleeful swish at the sight of it.

The barrier picks up the pace by locking in the geometrical growths together Opera and Paige both give you a parting smile.
 

THe interior is cool and refreshing, an unnatural breeze exerting from the scattered fragments of vibrancy coming from your opponent.

She seems to pull out her massive weapon from seemingly nowhere, a giant beast of a sword with a rail style blade much like your own.

Styx rumbles in your head on sight. You can feel your pupils waver just a little.

Child?

Mm.

I know what you’re about to do but I’d widely suggest against it…

I’ll be fine.

I know just… be careful. I have an odd feeling about this one. I’ve never seen a custom build like that admittedly…

With a courtesy gesture between the two of you, both of you get into stance, shuffling back and forth.

You both wield tuner style weapons, designed as the ultimate defensive tool of its time.

A weapon that can potentially redirect the force of any opponent built on the philosophy of using one’s strength against them.. A single predictable attack becomes dangerous in this encounter.

You make the first move, attempting to feign an attack to force a swing you can punish, moving in but never committing to an attack.

Walking is a free action after all, a number of your peers made a big point of that.

Spada maintains a certain patience, refusing to take the bait but losing ground as she slowly finds her back against the wall.

Getting her close enough leads to a potential pin situation, and a decisive victory.

Her mask makes it difficult to gauge her state, though her body language is all you have to work off of here.

She has to be aware of the dangers of the clash, that’s the only reason she’s giving you this much positional advantage.

You decide you have enough ground and proceed to go for a shoulder tackle, one that she decides to go pound for pound against.

Her larger size allows her to trade pretty well, much to your dismay.

She takes the opportunity to use her free hand to fish for a grab, you immediately headbutt her.

It doesn’t result in much, she yanks you toward the wall behind her and smashes you directly into it.

You cling onto her, doing everything you can to try to take this to the ground if you need to. Anything to avoid the sword clash.

You’re only met with an even stronger grip as you’re once again pummeled into the wall. The tightness of the space prevents her from being able to swing very well, the most she can do with her large sword is whack you with the hilt.

Your chest starts to hurt.

Child?

This situation is too familiar.  Your heart races.

You’re panicking.

You manage to thrash around enough to kick her back, she doesn’t give you an inch.
 

She uses her new position to lunge the rail at you, aiming to lock you down.

You’re pinned properly. There’s no dodging this.

You go for the parry, it’s the only option you have.

She responds with her own, you’ve created a volley situation.

Both of you are trapped in a tug of war where one slip could end things. Take it now and minimize the damage?

No..

At this point you can’t safely redirect the attack way without getting caught in the blast but..

It’s the safest call, you grapple her blade with your own and slam into the wall around you.

 

The release of energy feels like a flashbang inside your brain.

Every wire scrambling to make sense of what’s happening in front of you.

You are on the floor.

You feel the tile of the castle ground against your skin.

You can make out Opera from the distance.

You look up.

It hasn’t phased her one bit.

You can see her approaching.

She reaches down.

You feel claws shifting toward your scalp.

They remind you of her… your brain starts to fog.

Suddenly a sharp pain through your skull.

Your head pounds against the wall, each hit making the dent bigger.

You feel claws shifting toward your scalp,

Pummeled over and over, your eyes start to roll toward the past.

Rook:You’re quite the trooper.

Each thrash and flail into the concrete worse than the last.

Rook: Don’t think anyone’s ever lasted this long.

Again.

Rook: They all had a lot more going on but..

Again.

Rook: None of them were this hard to kill. Consider it unlucky.

Again:

Geezer: Op, help him!

Charon: T-take the shot.

Opera: There’s to much moving, I can’t get a clear s-shot I-

Charon: P-please..

Opera: I’ll hit you!

Charon: D-don’t care- just…

Rook: You should, I don’t think you understand the situation.

Rook: Moment you die, she’s next.

You feel each breath harder to make. You try biting down to no success.

Styx: Make a pact.

Keeping your grip on the world becomes more difficult.

Styx: I can save you, but we need to make a deal now.

Rook: That awful entity of yours is whispering.

Rook: Pathetic that you’ve kept him around.

Rook: Should’ve made your request and cut him off after.

Rook: But people don’t seem to have much regard for what comes from keeping bad company.

The amount of physical abuse you’re taking has become backnoise at this point.

Rook: You spawn your little proxy, and then you keep making deal after deal.

Rook: Putting it through the paper shredder until it forms “correctly.”

Charon: I-

Rook:Whatever reason you have, it’s pathetic.

Your heart starts to give.

Rook:There’s a glaze in your eyes, took long enough.

Rook: About ready to see god at this point but…

She grabs you by the mouth, forcing your jaw open just enough to allow plasma to drip from her a wound on her palm into your mouth.

Your body sparks back, everything painfully starts snapping back together.

You frantically gasp for air.

Rook: You don’t get to die on your terms.

Styx: Child….

Rook: Right in time to bail yourself out.

Rook: What will you give up this time?

Styx: Dying will not help you or anyone else!

Rook: Not exactly much left looking at you.

Rook: Put yourself through the blender.

Styx: Please make the call-

Rook: Could reroll your proxy, ask for something a little more useful.

Rook: Not like it can feel anything, right?

Styx: That’s.. Actually a possible option, yes. A bit extreme-

Rook: I endorse it personally. See how long it sticks with you after that.

Charon: I’m not making another contract..

Rook: And why not? Everyone else who’s gotten this far has had more than enough sense to.

Rook: Your odds are pretty good, looking at you.

Rook: Worst case scenario, I might find someone who understands the struggle.

Charon: You’re not-

Rook: Mm?

Charon:...You’re what’s left.

Rook: Don’t call me that.

Charon: then that means you’re-

Rook: Mm..

Charon: What happened to you..?

Rook: Depends. What deal did you make with him?

Styx: She doesn’t need to know.

Rook: If you don’t talk, I’m killing one of your friends right now.

Styx: Something about this entire thing sounds wrong-

Rook: You have a favorite, right?

Styx: Don’t let tyrants intimidate you, there’s something she wants to hear.

Rook: That rabbit is looking very expendable, personally.

Styx: Charon!

Rook: Final chance.

Charon: I… just want to bring them home..

Rook:... Oh?

Charon: I want to meet them..

Charon: And I know Grandma worries about them a lot so…

Rook:....

Charon: I don’t know..

Charon: Guess I thought if I could do that-

Rook: -That’s more than enough. I’m feeling merciful today lucky for you.

Rook: So I’m going to give you an offer better than that entity of yours ever could.

Charon:... Oh?

Rook: You and Geezer leave. Your whole family leaves. You cut your loses and you never have to hear of this place again.

Rook: And in exchange… I want the Entity and all that comes with it.

Charon.. You want Styx?

Rook: His kind has personally scorned me, and I promise you’re better off without him.

Charon: My proxy….?

Rook: Treated like royalty in this realm.

Charon: I… What about Opera? The others?

Rook: I’m already giving you plenty, don’t press further.

Charon: But…

Opera: Please… we’ll be okay.

Opera: I can handle myself just….

Rook: Big call for you to make, but I’m sure that helps your conscience a little?

Rook: Owe it to the others, I would take it.

Charon: You’ll kill them…

Rook: I’ll give them a chance to surrender and potentially spare them, but that’s as much as I’m willing to add.

Charon: Nah…

Charon: They’re good people, they’re not taking that offer. May as well just be a death sentence.

Charon: You’re going to have to just kill me

Rook:...Disappointing, but I respect it.

You feel hands shifting.

And then a release.

Spada: Ah good,

Spada: …Are you okay?

You’re back where you started, your opponent covered in dirt looking down at you. The crystal walls have crumbled down, absorbing the bulk of the blast.

Spada: Things got a bit heated, sorry about that…

Spada: Tried to walk over and help you up but your proxy got a bit defensive. Assuming it’s yours? Had to talk it down..

You look over her shoulder, it’s changed.
 

Charon: My proxy…?

Spada: Aye! I’m surprised you didn’t bring it out. We all choke under pressure I suppose but… you’re never alone when you have one. You know?

Charon: I know…

Spada: It got a name?

Charon: Rook…

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

King's Intermission 1/2
[Darkest Intermission 1]
CW: None
Perspective: Judgment

You enter a room deep in the bottom of the mountain abyss, a one way cavern into the ruins of a once prosperous world.

The entrance above has sealed itself off, the only way to proceed is forward.

There is no natural light to be found anywhere. Not a torch, nor candle, nor an inch of luminescent fungi to guide your path.

The only thing you see is the fallen kingdom of gold, the fiendish light from your eyes reflecting off like a mirror in the sunset.

It’s enough to create a path, as you traverse down the many halls into the throne room.

Though the door is tall, your strength is more than enough.

As you crack through the entrance, you’re met with a noise of surprise.

You reach for your fractured blade, having served its purpose more than its fair share through the journey. What remains of it can hold out for just one last fight.

???: A visitor….?

???: Never thought one would make it this far if I’m honest. Certainly impressed…

You’re able to make out a face in this darkness, one buried under a mess of bangs.

???: Might I have a name?

You pause, thinking through your words carefully.

Judgment: You can call me Judgment by now.

???: Seems like such a stoic name.

Judgment: Just a formality of the job, and yourself?

???: Don’t think that matters much. You seem a little intent on striking me down I think.

You remove your grip from the sword, leaving it sheathed.

Judgment: First one on this adventure to say a word to me, I’ll hear you out.

Judgment: Name?

???: Mission.

Judgment: You’re really not much better in the name department but.. That’s irrelevant.

Judgment: Where’s the sword?

Mission: There’s plenty of legendary swords in this prison, you’ll need to be specific.

Judgment: The rumored blade, the one that supposedly contains the soul of the monarch?

Mission: Ah.. you mean… That’s..

Mission: Mm….

Judgment: Is something wrong?

Mission: I’ll have to think on that..

Mission: I want to say yes?

Mission approaches you just a little, you’re able to make something else out.

A large cross impaled through their stitched together form.

Judgment: What are you?

Mission: That’s a good question. Your thoughts?

Judgment: Context clues say you’re the manifestation of the weapon, and by extension the monarch.

Judgment: Which…

Mission: Which certainly says something about your situation, Knight.

Mission: What do you do? You’re trapped in here with me.

Judgment: It’d be a pity to go this far and have it all go to waste, wouldn’t it? Took plenty of prep to find this “holy” weapon.

Mission: Is that what they’re calling me up there?

Judgment: Maybe. The people nearby certainly weren’t happy that I came here but…

Judgment: I have people to save.

Mission: Can you put me down?

Judgment: If I do, means I didn’t need you in the first place.

Judgment: Also means you’re not the power I seek, right?

Mission: Could be.

Judgment: Still, think the two of us could do plenty more but… can’t see you being warmed to my kind.

Mission: There’s a part of me that doesn’t care for your title, no.

Judgment: Sometimes you have to kill your blessings. If you’re really so strong though, kill me now.

Mission: Mm… maybe I don’t want to just yet. It’s been a good while.

Judgment:: I think you’re just an opportunist really, I can relate.

Mission: Bold talk, I’m listening.

Judgment: You can’t escape on your own. Why?

Mission: If you have to know, it comes down to this form. Tried to piece myself together from what remains but.. Everything intact still doesn’t add enough to make for a physicality strong enough to escape.

Mission: To be truthful, I don’t think I am the monarch. Not anymore.

Mission: It feels right to hear such words to refer to me. Monarch, Lord, King…

Mission: But I am not him, he’s just a section along with everything else that makes me up.

Mission: Noise on noise. Knowledge and memories of lives I don’t resonate entirely with.

Judgment: Are you a fiend?

Mission: I don’t think so…

Mission: But that’s not too far off.  There’s something divine, be it the nature of the blade that holds me together.

Mission: I do know that I have power to share though, should you take it.

Mission: We both need something from each other, a deal could be made.

Judgment:... You’re one of those.

Judgment: I’ve seen enough that I’m very reluctant to take anything you offer. I’ll find an exit on my own.

Their face seems genuinely shocked at how fast you’ve dismissed them.

Mission: Surely you jest…? This prison is designed to kill anyone who’s made it this far.

Judgment: I’m aware? Hardly bothered, I’ve seen worse.

Mission: Even if you do escape, you’ll be marked for life! To invade this castle is asking for divine punishment!

Judgment: My entire bloodline carries such already, it’s manageable.

Mission: You didn’t even hear me out…

Judgment: I know your kind, you sell power piecemeal through one of those little phantoms. I’ve heard enough.

Mission: You think I’d offer you a proxy?

Judgment: Is that not the case?

Mission: No. Anyone who’s made it this far is someone special. A proxy is a tool for the weak to become valuable.

Mission: I’m offering an opportunity to shine to the fullest.

Your ear twitches, you hold back the urge to smirk.

Judgment: Continue?

Mission: Generations of knowledge, forbidden secrets, and an unbreakable blade to carve your fate.

Judgment: You offer yourself?

Mission: I offer you the path of greatness, and a partnership you couldn’t imagine a life without.

Judgment: Sounds like you’re proposing.

Mission’s face seemed outright flustered by that.

Judgment: What’s wrong?

Mission: Being seen with one of your nature? I don’t think I’d be allowed to keep my crown.

Judgment: You live in a kingdom of ash that’s abandoned you for centuries. What pressure your family placed on you is no longer something you have to carry.

Mission: And what would you know of that?

Judgment: I’m in the same position myself…

Judgment: One I carry on my own.

Judgment: I plan to burn it all down and start new. The mark on my coat, these theatrics… I’ll build a new era without any of it.

Mission: And where do I fit in? Your supporting cast?

Judgment: I’m a builder, not a ruler. Someone will have to carry that position when I’ve built my city.

Judgment: Surely you know something there?

Mission: You’re so odd…

Judgment: You’re the one who got down on one knee, I’m simply… considering the logistics of it.

Mission: Finding your flirtations frustrating. Not enough to ask you to stop so much as…

Mission: Has my name no longer meaning? What kind of a bold creature are you to talk to a king like this?

Judgment: Doesn’t matter, could be a worm and I’d feel about the same.

Mission: Your confidence angers me, it fills me with a sense of wonder and dread.

Mission: None of my components were ever so prideful…

Mission: I don’t understand…

Judgment: One of the few good things passed down to me. That’s about all I have to say..

Mission: Treating me as a commoner, I'd have you gutted under most circumstances.

Judgment: That’s fine, you’d have to catch me first.

Mission:...

Judgment: Quiet now?

Mission: Sorting out how I feel.

Judgment: You do that, I’ll find a way out.

Mission: You truly are abandoning me..?

Judgment: Plenty would say I should but…

Judgment: Think that’s for you to decide.

Judgment: I’ve got an offer for you, simple one.

Judgment: You prove your worth and I’ll prove mine. We work toward escaping this place together.

Judgment: Because as far as I’m concerned? You need me alive, I’d rather not kill the entire purpose of this venture, and you talk of strength you have yet to prove. If I like what I see, we can look into extending things toward a full contract.


Mission:... Can I add to negotiations?

Judgment: You may attempt.

Mission: Judgment is your title, yes? From what I understand, little knights like yourself adore to carry your guild’s name as your own when you’ve traveled so far from home.

Mission: It’s especially puzzling when you don’t seem very happy with it to begin with.

Mission: What is your true name? Something I can call you.

Judgment: Why should I tell you?

Mission: Because you refuse to call me by any formal title. I feel like I should be allowed the same. Besides, I’d like to know the name of my would-be rescuer should you perish in the effort.

Judgment: If I tell you, you’re taking the offer.

Mission held out a hand to you.

Mission: The moment our hands touch, I am yours. I’ll serve you as I’ve done so many others before.

You grab on without a moment of hesitation.

Judgment: Ali… Ali Judgment. 

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

King's Intermission 2/2
[Darkest Intermission 1]
CW: None
Perspective: Ali Judgment

 

Mission: You’re going to fall ill without a cloak to protect you from the rain you know.

Ali: Won’t get sick.

Mission: I don’t mind being kept in a scabbard for awhile.

Ali: I’ll be fine.

Mission: That’s what you say.. For someone who plays themselves off as so pragmatic, you are certainly choosing the long and painful route today.

Mission: I’ve seen you in action, you could make it to the next town by yourself much faster.

Ali: Are you implying something?

Mission: I could hardly catch up to you in this form but sheathed away you’d be there in a fraction of the time.

Mission: I’d like to understand why you’d go through all this effort to have me by your side.

Ali: The last thing you need in a working relationship is your business partner growing to hate you.

Ali: You’ve been away from the world a long time, you need to do a lot of catching up.

Mission: That’s certainly fair.

Mission: Everything has become so alien to me…

Mission: The first time I saw myself in the mirror…

Mission: To see that nothing we’ve worked toward remains.

Mission: We’re forgotten for the most part, at best treated as a boogeyman by those in the surrounding areas of our kingdom.

Ali: Hate to be blunt but.. Your family had it coming.

Mission: And now I am all that’s left of them. But… I certainly managed quite a talented client.

Ali: Suppose so…

Mission: Who spoils me with meals and luxuries.

Ali: You compensate your crew, it’s fundamental.

Ali: Speaking of, regarding your habits…

Mission: Which ones?

Ali: Your choice of words at every hotel we enter lately.

Mission: Mm?

Ali: You keep calling yourself my husband.

Mission: It’s a strategic call.

Ali: …I’m listening.

Mission: If a man and a woman enter a hotel on their own, and don’t make such clarifications well..

Mission: There’s a connotation, one that may drive the owners of the hotel to charge more or perhaps if they’re leaning more family friendly, refuse us.

Mission: But if we’re established as a married couple, they assume a little less as strange as that sounds?

Mission: So I choose to refer to myself as your husband if asked about our relationship.

Ali: Mm… interesting.

Mission: You don’t seem satisfied with that?

Ali: Thinking. Never really traveled with someone like this before so..

Ali: I have to give credit where it’s due, it’s sound.

Mission: And yet you don’t seem happy with the answer.

Mission: I could just return to your scabbard, though that’d give off a different impression as well I’d think.

Mission: My other form is… not exactly the most subtle if you’re looking to conceal a weapon.

Ali: I don’t mind being seen with you either way,

Mission: Then it shouldn’t be such a fuss I think.

Mission: Unless…

Mission: Is it too formal? I could say you’re my fiance.

Mission: Though we’d need to lie about how long we’ve know each other when they eventually ask for details.

Mission: Such a title draws questions.

Ali: Think I’d like to keep it simple. Husband works well enough.

Mission: Mm… it looks good on you too. Someone of your stature and stoic nature can be daunting for people but…

Mission: Next to someone of my poise wrapped around your arm shows there must be a heart of gold underneath.

Mission: You’re my protector in their eyes, albeit perhaps in an unconventional way…

Ali: What’s that mean?

Mission: Usually it’s the other way around with a couple, no?

Ali:... Took me a moment.

Ali: You’re from a fairly traditional family, aren’t you?

Mission: Yes? Is… did I say something wrong?

Ali: We’ll… work on that.

Mission: Oh! Is… hmmm…

Mission seems to think intensively for a good moment.

Mission: Do you prefer a queen? It’s not my first pick but I wouldn’t mind-

Ali: Go with what feels best to you, I don’t mind.

Mission: Mm..

Mission: I’ll put some thought into that then…

Mission: You’ll have to fill me in on details too, I know so little of you..

Ali: What’s there to say? I’m a knight, I’m maintaining the family business.

Mission: And you are alone? No parents?

Ali: Father passed long ago. Mother… was something.

Mission: And… that’s it? That’s quite small for a Guild family…

Ali: There’s extended relatives, not close to them.

Ali: And… my sister.

Ali: We’re no longer close, don’t think she cares to be anymore.

Ali: We had a falling out, do everytime we try to reconnect I think.

Ali: She’s probably happy with her ratty looking partner living in the family home right now.

Mission: Oh? Is she married?

Ali: They’re just dating, been for a few years.

Ali: Don’t think mom would ever approve, always believed in marrying up.

Mission: And what of you? Certainly I fit the bill?

Ali:...I suppose. Don’t know if I’d do it to make her happy.

Mission: And what of your sister? She’s come up a couple of times?

Ali: Mm?

Mission: You seem rather competitive toward her.

Mission: Every utterance.

Ali: She was the favorite. Went through a lot of hardship together but she was the golden child.

Ali: Having someone to constantly compete against makes me work harder.

Ali: Everything you go through makes you stronger in the end. That’s what mom taught me.
Ali: Hated her at the time, still do but..

Ali: She’s right on a whole lot of it.

Mission: Interesting…

Mission: Then I offer you this?

Ali: Mm?

Mission: We’ve known each other for a few good months now.. It might be fast but..

Ali:... this some ploy to get to know me better?

Mission: Maybe… but just think of it.

Mission: Next time the two of you meet, you’ll be married to royalty.

Mission: At the very least engaged? I do not know how you’d want to handle that.

Ali: Can I be honest?

Mission: Have you not been?

Ali: I’ll sit on that for awhile. But… I’ll make a confession. I don’t connect to other people much, don’t feel like I have a reason to.

Ali: But you’ve never weighed me down I don’t think, not like others.

Ali: I’m comfortable around you.

Ali: We’ll leave it at that.
1
Mission: You shouldn’t be.

Ali: I’m aware.

Mission: Disappointing being rejected but..

Ali: I’m putting a pin in it. When rejection comes, you’ll know.

Ali: For now let’s… continue what we have currently and see where this goes.

Mission: And there’s the soft side…

Mission: Knew I could bring something out.

You refuse to acknowledge them.

Mission: We’ll see where this goes then.

Mission: Continue talking once we find a place to dry? I’m having a good time myself.

Ali: After dinner.

Mission: After dinner it is then…

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

THE SHOT, Part 2.
[Festive Session, Part 2]

CW: None

Perspective: Charon Judgment

You cling onto your proxy’s hand as it stares off into the distance with a stoic disposition. It was a jarring shift from the timid creature it spend the last two days but…

Despite what many would consider a return to form, you can’t help but feel bothered.

Styx: Charon?

Charon: Mm…

Styx: How are you managing after that scuffle?

Charon: To be honest with you?

Charon: I’m not sure, certainly not great.

Charon: I’ve never choked like that on the field before.

Styx: Mm.. I can tell it was getting too close for comfort pretty fast.

Styx: Pondered why you stuck with your choice of weapon knowing the nature of the clash first hand.

Styx: Parryblade and all.

Charon: Felt like it was my only option at that point.

Charon: Couldn’t think of an alternative in the heat of the moment. Lost my cool fast.

Charon: Point was to entertain anyway.

Styx: Don’t think you achieved that very well, crowd seemed genuinely scared by the point a conclusion happened.

Styx: They could see the panic in your eyes..

Charon: Appreciate the sentiment but..

Styx: I apologize.. Hardly an expert in addressing a situation like this.

Styx: That proxy of yours certainly has my interest.

Charon: How so?

Styx: That behavior is erratic and unusual. To be such a mouse of a creature and then returning to a slate like that..

Styx: Bothers me as a progression. It feels like a step back in some ways.

Charon: Hasn’t acted like that since back when we were all stuck in that pit.

Charon: It keeps changing.

Styx: Mm…

Charon: You have any expertise on the matter?

Styx:  I’m sadly at a loss.

Charon: Mm..

Charon: You’ve changed quite a bit yourself.

Styx: I… am processing a lot of feelings myself.

Charon: Care to share?

Styx: Perhaps when I have my thoughts more organized but…

Styx: I think if there’s any certainty, I regret that we met in such an antagonistic way.

Styx: To be an entity is to spiral and ground over and over again. I’ve built so much and I’ve burned down many more in my time and… just like your proxy, I don’t think I know who I am anymore.

Styx: I’m scared of the idea that perhaps… the worst of me is the most true to self version.

Styx: And.. though our pact is here now, once this is all over I’ll go back to forgetting everything but the hurt that clings.

Charon: You certainly weren’t quite the Styx I first met when you came back.

Styx: Because I’ve been living within you the whole time, dormant.

Styx: I think though… I choose for you to have my soul. At the very least until your time is done.

Styx: After that I don’t know what’s in it for me.

Charon: That’s a commitment.

Styx: If you can remain a whole person by me being around, it’s the start of making up for many horrendous acts. Maybe.

Styx: That’s not really for me to be the one to determine though I don’t think…

Charon: And the others?

Styx: Geezer I… don’t know if I can ever fully make things up to.

Styx: There’s part of me that’s glad that everyone around you despises me though.

Styx: If I’m to be part of your life like this… I’d prefer to have less chances to get attached to others.

Charon: It’s for them to decide if they’re willing to give you a chance.

Styx: Of course, I’m aware.

Charon: I don’t think most of them will ever fully trust you at this point.

Styx: Mm…

Charon: But… I don’t think that’s good for you either.

Styx: We’ll see…

Styx: It’s not like I’d be getting much here.

Styx: I know you’re reluctant to expand on contracts.

Charon: I am, if I don’t have to shake your hand again I wouldn’t exactly be upset…

Styx: And the idea of interacting with anyone with your form is..uncomfortable? For myself and everyone involved?

Styx: So I’m simply here to be the voice in your head.

Charon: Maybe you’ll get lucky and I’ll find another.

Charon: Company and such.

Styx: Maybe. Think I’d like to have say if you’re picking up roommates.

Charon: Picky?

Styx: To a degree, yes.

Charon: We’ll see then. Do you have a type?

Styx:... I’d rather you not play wingman for me. Besides, don’t get the sense you’ve been in many relationships.

Charon:...

Styx: Maybe I can help you with that….


You’re interrupted by the approach of a certain cat and her ghostly bat.

Opera: Charon, you okay?

Charon: Just waiting as I promised.

Charon: Any luck with…

Charon: What are you all up to actually?

Opera: Geezer and Zana went to go see if a witchy friends are in town. Something about a shop?

Charon: Right, they’re pretty familiar with the area.

Opera: Mmhmm! Something about a spicy rabbit? I dunno. That knight from earlier joined them too, think she feels bad about the whole thing..

Charon: Ah… This town is mostly rabbits, doesn’t exactly narrow much down.…

Opera: This one’s weird?

Charon: All rabbits are weird.

Opera: Geezer?

Charon: If you know him long enough.

Opera: Really… well something to look forward to!

Paige scoots off of Opera’s shoulder to check in on your proxy. You can hear it make little noises as she examines your friend.

Opera: You able to find out anything?

Charon: Not really. Asked Styx and he’s not familiar with the phenomenon.

Opera: Huh…

Opera: Paige is talking to it now. Says you two haven’t had much conversation.

Charon:... My proxy can talk?

Opera: Mmhmm.. You can’t hear it.

Charon: Not at all…

Opera: Wild. Maybe you’re just not doing it right?

Charon: Maybe. You’ll have to show me the ropes here.

Opera: I’ll do what I can?

Paige gives your proxy a little comforting pat on the shoulder, your proxy makes the first distinctive response it has in awhile.

Opera: Huh… Think I know what it is.

Opera: Was wondering as much…

Charon: If you have something, please tell.

Opera: Your proxy’s gotten fractured.

Charon:... Fractured?

Opera: Not really a thing that happens with Proxies from your world but.

Opera: It was never from this place. Rook was born in the angel pocket.

Opera: So it’s gonna be a little bit different because of that.

Opera: Seems to like being called that, but…

Opera: I get why you don’t like calling it that.

Charon: It’s… complicated.

Opera: I mean it’s not her, just like I’m not her…

Opera: It won’t hurt you…

Charon: I know. I’ll get over it.

Charon: If that’s what it wants, that’s what’ll happen.

Charon: But…

Charon: Continue on the whole fracturing dilemma.

Opera: So like…

Opera: The proxy wasn’t just tanking for you physically you know.

Opera: Took a lot of the mental load too…

Opera: Thing absorbed a lot of the shock and trauma you went through.

Opera: And… don’t take offense but. You tried to play it off too much.

Opera: Still do honestly..

Charon: I know…

Opera: Rook tanked a lot of it for you, and now well…

Opera: It’s going to change a lot regularly.

Charon: Is it… just going to exist unstable or..

Opera: No! There’s nothing wrong with it! It’s just..

Opera: How do I put it uh…

She starts patting your head.

Charon:... What are you doing?

Opera: Give it a second..

Rook zooms in to tackle hug you, appearance changed again again.

You feel a little surprised by how affectionate  it is, it presses its face up to yours.

Charon: W-What did you do?

Opera: Just prompted it a little.

Opera: Really surprised how fast that was though..

Charon: It’s like it’s a different person..

Opera: It is! Kind of?

Opera: So like…

Charon: You’re kidding.

Opera: Nope.

Charon:.. Are you saying that was going to happen to me?  I would’ve split without it?

Opera: Probably!

Charon: But… it will be okay right?

Opera: Long as you take care of it. Talk to it more, get to know it well.

Opera: Should be fine?

Opera: Maybe asking if any of them wanna be called something other than Rook actually.

Opera: Though for now I think that’s fine? We’ll see. Case by case.

Opera: You two got a lot to figure out, Geezer’s got a hook up maybe though so. You know.

You try hugging the proxy back… it feels nice…too nice. Both of you are resonating.

Maybe a tad too much.

You go in just or a little nuzzle and…

It’s mask lifts just enough to reveal a mouth.. You feel it press lips against yours.

Opera: Oh! Um….

Opera: Okay well…

Opera: Do you need me to break it off…? Too affectionate? I can um…

After the initial shock you return it, giving her an assuring gesture as you and the proxy continue.

Oh god is this allowed?

You can feel Styx cackling in your head a little.

You finally pull away, face red and the proxy resting its head on your shoulder.

Charon: Well…

Opera: You okay…?

Charon: I.. don’t think I was ready for that to be the first time I’ve kissed anyone like that.

Charon: Is this allowed…? Does that count…?

Opera: I dunno, never done something like that. Probably.

Opera: Kinda cute though….

Charon: Mm… maybe.

Charon: The others would’ve cooked me a bit…

Opera: You’ll be fine.

Opera: Think I’m gonna go check on them though, been long enough. You wanna still sit here and rest or…

Charon: I think I’m ready to move again, brought my cane.

The three of you depart, rook wrapped around your arm the whole way.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 The two of you approach a tent in a less crowded section of the street, very clearly a temporary storefront leading out of a home.

It’s cozy. You can smell the baking of sweets within.

Your cousin is just outside waiting to greet you.

Geezer: Yo, you made it. Was just about to go grab ya’ll.

Charon: Mm..

Opera: Wanted to check in, what’s the deal?

Geezer: Got a friend of a friend to help take a good look at you. Witchy type, he’s chill.

Charon: There really is a lot of that on this island.

Geezer: Mm! Part of the experience.

Charon: …Are the others here?

Geezer: Chatting it up with some folks from the area, they’ll be back.

Geezer: Guy should be ready for you anytime though, you gonna be good for something like this?

Charon: If it helps I’ll take it.

Geezer: Yeah?

Charon: I’ll do what I have to, though I’m curious what he’ll say…

Charon: Opera made some observations.

Opera: Yeah, if this dude’s worth his salt he’ll make similar ones probably.

Charon: Didn’t you say it doesn’t really happen in this realm?

Opera: Yeah, cause folks in this area seem to know a lot less. Least compared to the world I've seen.

Charon: We’re really that behind?

Opera: Not in most parts but uh…

Opera: You’re working on it.

Charon: Ah… forbidden knowledge then.

Opera: Til someone makes that breakthrough. Could be you?

Charon: I’ll write a book if this works out, earn a few accolades and retire to a leather throne in a two story Victorian home.

Opera:.. Yeah. I guess.

Charon: We’ll see how it goes though, won’t we?

Opera: You’ll do fine dude.

Geezer: Yeah, I’d bet on it but uh..

Charon: Right! Sorry…

Geezer: Get going, you got this dude.

???: You the client? Fit the bill.

???: Can feel the worry coming out of you.

Cracked lens, likely was in some kind of accident.

The cracked lens are a common accessory seen on witches who’ve been injured as a result of the practice. It’s a symbol of solidarity and awareness. You have a few sets of your own, though you;ve always felt hesitant to wear them too often for personal reasons.

The gourd approaches you.You give him a little bow.

???: You don’t gotta do all that.

Charon: Mm, sorry..

???: Don’t gotta apologize either, you didn’t do anything wrong.

???: But I can tell a whole lot’s going on with you, right?

???: You’re one of those Tavernian folks, can see that clear as day. Long way from home but you’re not alone.

Charon: How’d you know that?

???: Context clues, plus I talked to Geezer about you a little.

Charon: Right. ...

???: Wicked eyes, fan of that. Not sure what’s up with the Halo?  I’d guess you were signed by a entity but.. There’s a lot under the hood from the look of it.

Charon: Got that correctly too.

Charon: And you?

???: Me? Well…

???: Long story. Rabbit sounds correct, least up to my neck. Or maybe I'm the gourd getting a free ride? Who knows!

???: It's probably the first one. Maybe. But uh...

???: Got in just a bit of  an accident. Happens. Everything’s functional still for the most part so it worked out.

???: Festive all year long, it's a talent....

??: But that’s plenty about me, not my appointment... Tell me about you?

Charon: Long story too really…

???: Meant uh..

???: You got a halo hovering over. That’s a thing of some kind yeah?

Charon: Mm, leftover from a contract.

???: One that made your proxy?

Charon: Yes.. how much did Geezer tell you?

???: Enough. Sounds honestly like you’ve got a lot to work out with your little ghost friend to be honest though.

Charon: Mm..

???: Got a little thing that might help you. Familiar with Marigolds?

Charon: Decent bit, I’m aware of a number of their applications.

Charon: Though I’m not sure where this is going..

???: Around here a common thought is that a proxy is a tomb for memories, a lot of formative ones.

???: Sometimes entire other lives being stored away inside

???: We’re gonna do that just a little bit if you don’t mind.

You nod.

He slips you a little bottle from his pocket.

???: Take a gulp. Got a brew in here that’ll help you tap in. Get a good opportunity to talk to it on a more open and deeper level.

Charon: Does this work?

???: Yeah, ton actually. Got a few clients who’ve been using this method, hell one of them got me to stock up on these in the first place.

???: With a local witch’s shop you gotta make sure the community’s needs are met. Sometimes just having something around lets people discover it’s an option in the first place.

You look at the bottle with caution before uncapping it.

???: Ey hold up there before-

One big swig down, you can feel a herbal burning sensation as you swallow.

???: Ah, alright. Uh… hmm.

Charon: Is everything alright?

???: We were gonna have you lay down first but uh, got a minute or two before it starts kicking in…

Charon: Sorry…

???: Got a resting spot in the back of the tent, scoot on over quickly.

???: I’ll be guiding things best I can. Hopefully… little too brave for your own good you know.

Charon: Been told such..

???: Really are Geezer’s cousin…

???: Let’s get going then.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

 

You’re standing in a void, unable to make out anything but a faint object in the distance.

Despite all this, you feel a certain deja vu to the entire experience, one you’re struggling to pin down as your own or someone else’s.

You take a good moment to gather yourself, a certain haze clouding you until the world surrounding feels as true to life as any other moment.

You don’t remember making it to the bed, he must’ve helped you, the cute pumpkin rabbit..

What was his name?

You should probably ask…

You make your way over to the one light in this entire endless mess, a singular tarot card much like many you’ve seen in your days as a witch.

You reach out, immediately spooked as your hand is made visible by its glow..

It’s not certainly not your own, at least not in the way you usually think of..

But despite that, it feels correct in its own way. A remnant of another life perhaps…

You grab the card, immediately feeling it heavy between your fingers in a way you weren’t particularly expecting.

A voice emanates from it, one that brings a long missed comfort and warmth.

???: You came for me..

???: It’d been awhile I think.

???: Charon?

Charon: Mm, it’s me..

???: It’s been long since that hard time I think…

???: Do you remember me?

Charon:... Extreme Retention.

???: Mmhmm..

???: Well, in some form or another. You may call me… hmm..

???: I don’t really know honestly? Rook is a name that feels incorrect lately.

???: I think I’d like to spend some time to ponder that but.. For now let’s speak.

???: What was left by your side for a long time is well.. Nothing but a husk of my  former self but…

???: It was nice to see you with my own eyes again I think.

???: You’ve changed a lot, grown stronger.

???: Wish I could say the same for myself..

Charon:.. I don’t think I entirely understand.

???: Oh?

Charon: My proxy never left, I don’t think…

Charon: I’ve been able to call on you, have I not?

???: What remains is not the same person, someone else in my body. Not an invader but…

???: Something that was there to finish the job.

???: Until today I suppose. After that fight well.. I felt a need to come out and protect you.

???: And I’m just.. Glad you’re okay really.

Charon: I’m sorry for scaring you like that…

???: It’s my job to be here for you, I should be apologizing for vanishing for so long..

???: And to leave things in the hands of someone else without any warning.

???: I should thank them…

???: I don’t remember you being a cat though….

Charon: I have complicated feelings on that myself…

???: I think it’s a good fit on you personally but.. That’s just me…

???: Who’s protecting you these days?

Charon: Don’t really know.. But from the look of things there’s at least three people now.

???: I should really get the chance to meet them sometime..

???: If I recall, there’s a good chance they might be at the castle.. We’re somewhere in there right now perhaps?

???: Allow me to just….

The lights flicker on, the room becoming visible.

???: There we go… Can you see me fine?

In front of you stands a mannequin like setup, an armored layer of a person left in a fragmented state.

Charon:... Are you okay?

???: I think I’m recovering…

???: I’m not hurting but I don’t think I’m done either.

Charon: I think there’s someone in this place who can take care of you, a nurse-

???: I’ll be fine for now.. I promise you that you don’t need to worry about me like that..

???: I’m just happy that you made it..

Charon: I did…

???: Though our time together was short I..

???: I massively valued that I suppose. We went through great hardship together, I wish I could’ve protected you from all of it but..

???: I had my limits, but I wasn't good enough in the end..

Charon: You did more than anyone could’ve asked you to….

Charon: Don’t want to hear anything else.

???: Are you… tearing up?

Charon: I don’t need you putting yourself down like that, alright?

???: Ah.. I wouldn't have if I knew it’d upset you like this.. I’m sorry…

???: …What’s that card you’re holding?

Charon: This?

You flash it to the proxy.

???: The Empress, yet another possibility. A piece of yourself you have yet to explore…

???: In other words, what you could've been. To be honest I feel a strange closeness to that card but.. I have to think on why perhaps?

???: It's not my own but... while you wield it, you tap into another you and everything that comes with it.

???: Each of the cards Styx presented was a possibility, one of many interpretations at least.

???: You were given three, a handful of a deck of many as is to hone your options but...

???: I am more than glad you picked me..

Charon: You’re the manifestation of Death then?

???: Mmhmm.. That’s a way to put it.

???: Though I think that’s a grim sounding name..

???: Could you do me a favor?

Charon: Anything.

???: I’d like to go upstairs, I feel the others up there..

???: Though I may need help, it’s-

Charon: I’ll carry you, don’t worry.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You take the proxy upstairs.

The sharp harsh metal tiles of its armored dress don’t seem capable of hurting you, and despite the many points pressing against your skin it feels about as soft as flowers during the evening.

And though it towers over you, you manage to carry it princess style without even a moment of strain. Whether you can attribute this to its nature or your current form is unclear, but perhaps as one who’s dedicated so much of itself to protect you, it truly could never harm you.

It’s a very somber, sobering thought..

You shake your head.

You aren’t up to letting tears happen this early, and you know the moment you think too hard about it they will fall.

Though you can feel your friend is just about ready to at any moment…

You make it up stairs, the rooms now much more familiar.

The eternal melancholy of the castle around you the same as always.

Time does not pass In this world as it would back home.

You could spend an eternity here learning all the devil’s secrets, and it’d only be a day in your time.

It’s scary in its own way.

Waiting for you is the proxy you’ve spent the past couple of days with.

Though it’s a new addition to your life, you know in some way you’ve known it for years.

But there’s something different, it’s more still and less timid.

You can see yourself in its eyes in a way you couldn’t before.

The gentle mirror is a little more full in its existence, solidifying in a form you aren’t sure what to make of at first.

Whoever’s behind that gaze isn’t that same timid nature.

Charon: Hello?

It acknowledges you, though not a single word seems to be able to leave its mouth when it opens.

You can’t seem to understand it just yet.

The skeletal dog facing you seems genuinely disappointed, perhaps a tad frustrated in a way it didn’t display previously.

The proxy in your arms nudges its face into your shoulder.

???: Seems like you still haven’t gotten far enough to hear its words…

Charon: It’s unfortunate but.. It has me rather confused.

Charon: I can talk to you fine?

???: You certainly can..

???: Perhaps it has to do with our relationship.

???: I’ve been here for quite a long time after all.

Charon: You really do need a name.

???: Death as I said doesn’t really feel quite fitting these days. Such a title deserves a little more dignity..

Charon: You’ve plenty, don’t say that…

???: Mm… I really shouldn’t.

???: That said, what stands in front of you is just as much an embodiment of your aspect death, if not more so now..

???: My form is simply the hollowed out remains of the old proxy body, like a chrysalis left over you could say.

???: What stands before you is our form that exists when you call on us, albeit one that’s malleable toward our individual selves.

???: It’s convenient…

Charon: Is that how you’re both able to be here at once then? Is this truly the castle?

???: Yes actually..

Charon: But we’re asleep, no?

???: You are for certain. Your body is illusionary the same way ours usually is in the physical world.

Charon: Which means..

???: As of now you’re effectively our proxy. Strange to think of…

Charon: Ah..

???: I think I have a name I’d like.

Charon: Oh?

???: Mar…

???: It was a name that was considered a few times I think, back in the day..

Charon: It was something my Grandmother pushed for I think… didn’t seem to go through for some reason. She’s mentioned.

Charon: It’s got a good sound.

Mar: Then can I take it? It’s yours really to claim, there’s many worlds where it seems to be the outcome.

Mar: Like the one you take the form of right now.

Charon: It’s yours.

Mar: Thank you…

You look back at the skeleton in front of you.

Charon: And what of you? Who’s truly in front of me?

There’s a flash, spirals of colors and forms in front of you.

Your past, your present, the many paths you can take.

One eye seeing everything that’s ever happened, and the other seeing everything that could.

Charon: You’re… the rest of the deck then. So to speak?

It nods.

Charon: And… right now we need to take care of each other, find all the pieces and arrange them until we’re at an understanding.

Charon: You are all just as much the original Charon as I am… and you’re everything we could become.

Mar: That’s an interesting interpretation.

Charon: So… what am I in all of this?

Mar: Defiance. The will that remained when the mind and soul couldn’t remain.

Mar: The body kept walking because a single instinct refused to die. That’s you.

Mar: We saved every other aspect. The mind of the child who became a hero, the soul that was torn in the face of alien entities nobody would ever have to witness.

Mar: Styx certainly made for a good glue to keep it all together but..

Mar: I personally don’t like his interpretation, nor that presented by Zinnia really.

Charon: Is there merit to any of that?

Mar: I think so. Whatever you truly are now, you’re no different than anyone else in the face of time.

Mar: Geezer, Opera… neither of them are entirely the same person they were back then. The person you become as an adult is the product of everything you’ve been and everything you push to be.

Mar: And though you are formed of something primal, you’re just as complete on your own as anyone else.

Mar: The facade and ambition behind it merge to become its own soul. You are Charon, no matter how anyone looks at it.

Charon: Mm…

Mar: But for now that’s enough, I don’t want to overwhelm you, overdid it on the prose.

Mar: Styx really rubbed off on both of us in a way nobody anticipated..

Charon: Truly.

Mar: You can put me down I think.. I should be fine for now.

You nod, carefully letting Marback on the ground. It approaches the other proxy.

The two embrace for a moment.

Mar: Whatever happens, we’ll make it work out.

Mar: Everytime you show up here through a dream, you may find yourself in the shape of another you I think.

Mar: Perhaps a bird? There’s a few of those from what we can tell. Good number of dogs, surprisingly high number of cats, birds seem to be a thing too. Some of them are fiendish, some of them not.

Mar: A raven perhaps is coming your way down the line, he feels close..

Charon: Feels like there’s a theme.

Mar: Perhaps, the library here has a number of speculations.

Mar: They say that people who are important tend to reflect on you even in other lives. A passing of flame between common souls.

Charon: I mean I don’t really know too many cats…

Mar: They’re common in the family, are they not?

Charon: Mm.. only met Vergil and his folks though. Been a good while since we’ve had a formal gathering…

Mar: That’s something perhaps. And birds well…

Charon: I know the answer there.

Mar: Mmhmm…

Mar: Until then I’d like to just rest here for the remaining duration we’re all here..

Mar: This form is quite sore..

Charon: Of course…

Charon: One last thing I have to ask.

Mar: Mm..

Charon: Rook over there for a lack of a better name, is the body you all use in the physical world.

Mar: Mmhmm..

Charon: And I stand here through what is effectively a proxy of a proxy, because I;m asleep out there.

Mar: Correct.

Charon: Then you are…?

Mar: You’ll see as time comes. I’ll be there for you when you wake but..

Mar: Well, I’ll be blunt.

Mar: I’m not a fan of Bucket’s methods.

Mar: I think it’ll work you to death before it achieves what it promised you.

Mar: So I’ve a plan of my own, one with due time you’ll see.

Charon: Why not tell me now?

Mar: I rather not make a promise that I’m not sure I can make good on but..

Mar: If all goes well, we’ll be our grandest selves by the end of the next two weeks.

Mar: Until then, you’ll just have to see the world for yourself…

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You wake up to a familiar masked face.

Spada: Morning sleepyhead, you knocked out pretty hard..

Charon: Morning..?

Spada: Yep.  Spice let you rest here for the night.

Charon: Spice is…

Spada: The rabbit?

Charon: That doesn’t really narrow it dow-

Spada: Pumpkin boy.

Charon: …Right.

Charon: Never actually asked his name…

Spada: Rude! It’s fine, doubt he’d be mad.

Spada: Your eyes changed… red in one, blue in the other.. That normal?

Charon: ...Did they?

Spada: You need a mirror or..

Charon: No that’s fine just… lot to go over.

Charon: Been a tough couple of days.

Spada: Right.

Charon:  Where’s everyone else?

Spada: Handling some business, so they asked if I could check in on you!

Spada: And grab you a few things?

She pulls out two gifts, a large sword and a tarot card.

A small bird on it.. It’s marked with the name, The Fool..

And your tuner blade, seemingly modified by another’s hand.

The repaint is nice..

Charon: What’s all this about?

Spada: Gifts from friends!

Spada: Manzana touched up your sword, she wanted to come in person to give it to you but think she’s shy about all that.

Spada: Not a big fan of people modding my stuff without asking but I guess you know each other.

Charon: I’m not, didn’t even give this to her but…

Charon: It’s actually quite lovely. Her craftsmanship shows. Better than mine honestly..

Charon: I’ll have to thank her.

Spada: She’s really sweet! Maybe not the biggest people person though..  Don’t think she was able to keep eye contact.

You look directly at her mask with a tired look.

Spada:.. Did I do something..?

Charon: Don’t worry about it, you’re fine.

Charon: The other.. The card?

Spada: That one’s uh…

Spada: Zinnia? Said you two were related but they’re like…

Spada: A rodent?

Charon: …My cousins are rabbits.

Spada: Yeah, those aren’t rodents.

Charon… Something to think about later.

Spada: You know what this is?

Charon: No… But I feel like I should..

Spada: They said it’ll come to you. Apparently might come in handy while you’re here for the month of Darkest Night.

Spada: Someone who’ll be there when you need it.

Spada: Gotta wonder what that means but.. I got reasons for being here too.

Spada: Hopefully you’ll find what you need to though..

The two of you are interrupted by the friendly gourd.

Spice: Sounds like someone’s up. If you two wanna stay for breakfast you can.

Spada: I gotta be some place soon actually, not gonna make it if I am! This one’s got an invitation too actually.

Charon: I should probably be back too…

Spice: Shame, always happy to talk to oversea witch folk. You can drop by our both anytime over the next couple of weeks though, if I’m not there my boyfriend might be! And we always got the shop during the day, Geezer can give you the address.

Spice: Didn’t know he had siblings..

Charon: We use the term cousin but.. That feels right too.

Spada: Before you go, There’s someone who wanted to see you, someone who wanted to apologize.

Spada: Said to meet up on the beach from before? That something you know?

Charon: Mm. That everyone?

Spada: For now! Folks really got me going around doing courier work but..

Spada: That’s just kind of an occupational hazard with knighthood, you know?

Charon: Lo siento.

Spada: You’re good.. Uh..

Spada: Hopefully we get a rematch before we gotta go separate ways for real. Maybe even just meet up with you and your friends if you go into town again?

Charon: I’d like that.

You get up from the comfy little setup you’ve been resting in and pocket the blade into a square little rift.

Spada: That’s fancy.. You a follower of The Krait or something? Never see anyone do that this far out..

You can feel Styx vibrate at that.

The Krait…? How interesting…

Charon: No but I’ll look into it.

Charon: Thanks for everything, both of you.

Spice: No biggie, your cousin’s done is plenty of solids.

Spice: Don’t be a stranger though, wanna hear about what you Tavernian folks are up to.

Charon: Aye.

Spada starts walking out ahead of you, giving a little wave at Spice and a gesture to you.

Spada: Godspeed dude.

Charon: Godspeed.

 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

???: Mr. Judgment?

You find your walk back interrupted by a stranger with an aura like a jagged knife.

You can’t help but feel an immediate rattling in your head.

Styx is stirring as pieces tend to come together immediately.

Disengage right now.

Charon: Are you looking for someone?

Charon!

???: I’ve found him! I have no doubt it’s you, you remind me of the old boss just giving you a slight glance…

???: Little shorter than I pictured but she did make a rather nasty comment. Not my thing but bless her honestly.

???: Have to say I’m feeling very strong about you in at least two different ways.

Charon: And what’s that supposed to mean?

Styx: Don’t ask for clarification-

???: Well first? You have a destructiveness to you, a real hurricane of a person. I might have to keep you in mind if I need a favor but… seems someone already had dibs. Unfortunate! But I’m committed to my current contracts anyway.. 

???: But secondly, you remind me of some people and.. I don’t think it’s by pure coincidence.

???: What do you have to say, rabbit?

Charon: Rabbit?

Styx:Rabbit…?!

???: You have that stench on you. Better dressed perhaps but I can’t help but feel a certain deja vu.

???: Who are you contracted with?

???: It’s clear as day, it’s certainly left quite the mark on your body.

The stranger attempts to approach you further

Rook swoops in and tries to create a gap between you two, this time in the skeletal state you’ve started to get most familiar with.

???: Oh! Well that’s just a confession!

???: Not as confident this time though, are you?

???: I come not to fight, fortunately for you.

???: I’m here to inspect!

Charon: If you’re asking for that much, I’d like to know something as well.

???: Asking so much, You do understand you’re in the presence of a King? Queen?

???: Depends on the energy at the time really, think it’s such an interesting concept you people have…

???: But I feel merciful, you may call me Mission.

Charon: Judgment, but you knew as much.

Mission: Mmhmm!

Charon: What do you really want out of all this?

Mission: Housekeeping for now, seems we ended up with an unexpected recruit in all this.

Mission: The other dog made such a big argument for you, vouched on your potential and claimed that this was your job in the first place which…

Mission: Had me sent here since my partner had her doubts.

Charon: Then you work for Ali.

Mission: I work with Ali.

Charon: Interesting. She’s pretty high standard.

Mission: And I more than meet that!

Mission: Think you just barely manage to pass the threshold to be a backup should both our contracts expire!

I know we’re not on the best terms but.. Please don’t consider any of this.

Mission: And besides, you look like a person who knows how to treat a blade better than the people around you!

How-!

Charon!

Mission: Your value as a client is certainly pushed by who you are, who you might’ve been once, and absolutely by who you’re housing right now.

Charon: You’re a little rancid, don’t you get tired?

Mission: Like to think it’s a way to find your true allies. Can’t tolerate you at your worst, don’t deserve you at your finest. So the saying goes anyway..

Charon: Tell yourself that.

Mission: Still have that mouth after all this time too?

Mission: Charmed!

They fixate on your eyes, as if trying to gaze at something on the other side.

Mission: I’m just glad knowing I outlived you.

Charon: Want to see how long that lasts?

Mission: Mm..

Mission: Maybe.

Mission: Despite our history, think by your hand is one of the few I’d be okay with ending me.

Mission: Not my favorite option but..

Mission: I’d more than accept it should it happen.

They casually approach you, ignoring the proxy’s attempt to intimidate them.

Mission: I know more than enough what you’re capable of.

Mission: And personally, i think I’d be a stronger in your hands than hers.

Mission: With her I’ve found much time to think, reflect, make the effort to atone.

Their voice softens.

Mission: And maybe you’re the key to that right now.

Mission: My cross is yours to inherit, if you truly desire.

Mission: All it would take is one clean hit.

They grab your hand and place it to their throat.

Your chest pounds so frantically, you can’t even recognize it as your own.

Mission: I wouldn’t hold it against you for one moment if you cut me down.

Mission: After all your friends did, wouldn’t you like to tie that last loose end? Make it truly worth it?

Mission: My mind and this flesh are all that remain of the old crown on this world.

Styx’s voice is gone, completely silent.

The seething hatred that remains is all you can hear in the moment.

And it speaks more articulately than anyone could ever put into words.

Charon: It’s his call to make.

Mission: You choose to serve? You're of right to the decision, aren't you?

Charon: Think there's been a misunderstanding.

Mission: Maybe but.. I hope he picks wisely then.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

A Rabbit's Sun 1/3
[Brand New Rabbit]
CW: Discussions of Parental Abuse
Perspective: Manzana Santana

 

After a long night of tinkering, you crawl out of your bunker of a makeshift workshop and stretch your bones.

There wasn't really as much partying as you'd liked after last night's duel. You and the others returned home to manage some errands at base and share sweets that Opera managed to pick up along the way.

Fenton, the other main tinkering witch of the group came to you with a proposition. Not something you usually do without prep or commission in advance but under the circumstances, you feel like you owe a debt after you were treated so kindly.

It was really good pumpkin pie..

It's a little disappointing, you were hoping for a little more time to breath..

But under the circumstances you and Needle worked through the night.

She dozed off in a chair near your station. She made the decision to stick with you despite the fact that she'd been working a all-nighter the day before.

You decide against waking her up, she genuinely needs the rest after that..

After this, you hope to dedicate most of the day to getting some time with her properly..

You approach the kitchen setup and serve yourself a tall glass of orange juice.

You've earned it.

Bucket: Good morning.

You're interrupted by the old dog, your mother's other apprentice.

The one who filled that role before you, and hopefully none more than that.

Manzana: Morning…

Bucket: You look tired.

Mazana: Been working all night.

Bucket: I can tell. Every time I stepped out of my room you seemed to be awake.

Bucket: Don’t think you should be operating blowtorches and wires with such drowsing eyes.

Manzana: Don’t worry about me, used to it. More worried about you.

Bucket: Me?

Manzana: Yeah. Could hear you stepping out of your room every hour or so.

Bucket: Mm, well.. it's a habit of my own.

Manzana: You’re usually on the run, should probably get some shut eye.

You give the dog a good look, there's a magical glamour active but it doesn't seem to be hiding anything.

Manzana: Not even sure why you were in disguise in the first place, everyone here knows who you are now.

Bucket: The illusion is flexible. You see what I want all of you to see. And it gives me options.

Bucket: Anyone outside of our group would just see and hear one of many possible facades, but this task requires a level of trust.

Manzana: You’re still hiding yourself right now though, even if just a little..

Manzana: Downplaying something.

Bucket: Good eye…

The dog tilts their head for a moment.

Bucket: Can I look at your face properly? Something’s caught my attention.

You turn your face directly toward them.

Bucket: Glowing little hearts in your eyes..

Manzana: Contract poisoning. Charon and Opera got it too.

Bucket: Is it severe?

Manzana: Used to be, it's... manageable.

Bucket: And the others?

Manzana: Haven’t asked.

Bucket: A witch like yourself has to have some gauge of it.

Manzana: Opera looks like she’s doing good, whatever happened seems pretty minor.

Manzana: Her proxy’s completely natural too. Must've asked for something simple

Bucket: See, I would’ve never known.

Manzana: She’s smart and maybe she got lucky, all I can say about it.

Bucket: Charon?

Manzana: Rough, not taking care of it as well as he should.

Manzana: Worked with his type before, don't think he's got the best self-preservation skills.

Bucket: Also had that sense…

Manzana: So… why are you talking to me?

Manzana: No offense but doubt you're here to just say hi.

The dog pauses for a moment, visibly planning out their next sentence in their head.

Bucket: You remind me of him, and you very much seem to known him better than I do.

Manzana: Low bar from what I can tell. I really don’t,

Manzana: Platino my uh… other self I guess. Remembers a lot of things from back then that I don’t.

Mazana: We were friends online when we were kids, almost all of it is blank. Does feel weirdly nice talking to him though so maybe something stuck for me...

Manzana: Feels weird walking up to someone you can't remember a single conversation with and feeling weird and fuzzy about the whole thing.

Manzana: Platino's been catching me up though, he's got a lot of those memories and kinda wish I had that everytime we talk about it.

Manzana: If Plat says he's a good dude, I'll trust his word.

Manzana: So..

Manzana: Are you just here to fish around? Should just be asking him yourself about some of these things, no offense.

Bucket: You’re an unplanned addition to the team, getting to understand who you are and what you can do is somewhat a part of this job..

Bucket: And outside of professional pleasantries, I do think it’s quite important to get to know family. I think we're cousins?

Manzana:.. I guess. Feels weird to call you that..

Manzana: Think uh… Uncle? Aunt? What’s the term? Something like that feels better.

Bucket: If I had to pick, Uncle is acceptable… but you are my aunt’s daughter so I don't think that'd be accurate in any scenario.

Manzana: One of them, yeah. Traveled with Ali a ton but never really got to do family things with her like the others.

Manzana: But.. she's the closest thing to a mom I have, even if it's pretty selective.

Bucket: Her favorite rabbit as she’s said a few times.

Your ears pull back in distress

Manzana: Nicer than usual I guess. I mean I’m the only rabbit she has around but probably meant to be nice.

A tiny expression of discomfort sneaks on Bucket's face just briefly enough to catch.

Manzana:... Right? This isn't a thing?

The dog avoids the question completely.

Bucket: She speaks highly of you on the occasions we get to sit down and talk. Ali and I have a difficult relationship but a relationship none the less.

Bucket: Something in common.

Manzana: Honestly don’t think she’s ever said anything nice without a tinge of “But you can do better” attached. You know how she is.

Bucket: Expected.

Manzana: Your mom ever like that? Like is this just what its like?

Bucket: Complicated. I wish we spoke more often these days but... things aren't easy for anyone right now.

Bucket: Very loving, but the moment I glanced at the blade I discovered a side of her I wish I hadn’t. At least at the time.

Bucket: The woman who raised me is kind in many ways, but at the same time very much a devil trying to make up with god.

Bucket: The knight on the other hand? A tough mentor at best and on her bad days well.. She did what she did. She wanted to prep me for the hardships of the job.

Bucket: Fighting on your own, facing people who care nothing of you, the cruelties you cannot avoid in this field of work.

Bucket: And ultimately... now that I've committed so much to this, I worry it was never enough.

Bucket: She was hurt and passed on her pain more than I think she should’ve. In hindsight it feels like a mercy compared to what I've had to do since then.

Bucket: She did more than plenty to toughen me up, but in the end I left with your mother the moment she gave me an out.

Bucket: Ali she was straight to the point. Discard my ignorance, prepare for the worst, and in the end you’d never be caught sleeping.

Bucket: I have my bones to pick with both of them. Two paths toward great suffering of a clashing nature.

Manzana: Really tell yourself that?

Bucket: Maybe..

Manzana: Should your kid really go through the same?

Bucket: I don’t really know anymore.

Bucket: Part of me wants him to drop all this, realize he has no reason to repeat this suffering. He's seen time in hell, he should celebrate never having to experience it again. There is no nobility to self destruction.

Bucket: But at the same time to see him truly rise to the occasion.... I hope he's able to do that.

Bucket: Become the best of us all in his own way.

Bucket: You, Geezer... the path you take I hope is different from what I've experienced. But I truly wish to see you do the same. You three are a generation capable of so much..

Manzana: Really did learn a lot from my mom.

Bucket: Pardon?

Manzana: You're not as blunt or rough, better intentioned for sure but... you sure talk like her.

Manzana: Don’t know if you’re much better though.

Bucket: I just don’t want a repeat of what happened, he's clearly still hurt-

Manzana: Nobody else here does. Your kid doesn’t want to be relive trauma.

Manzana: Meeting most people here for the first time so I don't have the whole story yet but…

Manzana: If they’re softies like Geezer, they got better reasons for this than you.

Manzana: It’s not about closure, not about glory, not about any bullheaded shit you and my mom think about when you swing around those stupid metal lumps.

Manzana: When you go through something like that, you don’t want other people to have to live that same shit.

Manzana: Our moms put is through a lot, why does anyone else have to again?

Manzana: And like… you’re strong. I can tell, I’ve seen enough people like you to know you’re the real deal. Your kid thins the same thing. He looks at you and he’s scared. You're the biggest hurdle in his head but the way people talk about things here? He could probably smoke you on a good day. Most of the people here could.

Manzana: Doesn't matter if you're the best knight on this planet, nobody cares. Nobody else is impressed except for him. Everyone just sees you hurting their friend. Fact that you got such a hold over him feels stupid.

Manzana: And it makes me think… why am I like that with my mom?

Manzana: Geezer and Charon know what she can do, Erica’s told them plenty of horror stories for sure.

Manzana: And they’re… not scared either. I sure am though, I know you are too.

Manzana: Really makes me feel dumb. I’m sure he'd be the same if you just weren't in his head so much.

Manzana: I want him to kick your teeth in.

Manzana: If he can do that, I’m sure I can do the same thing.

There’s an awkward pause between the two of you. You can’t make out their feelings from their face, covered in a mop of hair.

It feels like waiting for confirmation of your own execution…

Finally they speak.

Bucket: You’re right on a lot of that.

Bucket: I’m going to have a proper dialogue with him.

Manzana: ..Really?

Bucket: But… I want you to be there too if you do not mind.

Bucket: I’d like a voice of guidance on this.

Manzana: Don’t know what more you want me to say.

Bucket: Whatever comes to mind.

Bucket:  Because I think when it’s broken down for all to witness….

Bucket: You have an understanding that I’ve needed for a long time.

Manzana: Of?

Bucket: Myself…

Bucket: I’m going to set up a meeting. Would you do me such a favor?

Manzana: Give me a sec, got to talk to some folks first, get a last lookover on something.

Bucket: On what exactly?

Manzana: The Answer. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You hear conversation from the other side of the workroom.

With caution you step inside and are met with immediate fanfare.

Fenton: Look at you!

Manzana: Is everything alright?

Fenton: You’re insane, you know that?

Opera: It’s so clean…

Opera: THe weight is perfect..

Fenton: You really manage to get this much work in so fast?

Manzana: A lot of the heavy lifting was done, I just tuned it up in a few places.

Manzana: Lots of little innovations, plenty of notes too to work with. Don’t know why honestly…

Manzana: Always figured this was one of those secret project type deals.

Manzana: Idea of using fluid as a sink on a tuner to store charges of energy, makes the whole process a little more flexible and forgiving.

Manzana: It’s not something I’d ever expect to see put on a weapon like this but it made sense.

Manzana: Just consider it a cleanup job really.

Fenton: A sink for a sword?

Opera: I mean you know how a parry blade works.

Fenton: Yeah but… what for? What could you possibly be doing where you want to maintain a charge like that?

Manzana: Plenty, you’re a fiend. You can figure it out.

Fenton: Don’t think I’d be willing to feed on anything that’s being kept inside a mechanical monstrosity like this, no offense.

Fenton: It’s fully ready to go though?

Manzana: Just gotta load up the seals to make sure it’s all fine and dandy.

Manzana: I can do a few tune ups for everyone here.

You look at Opera.

Manzana: Maybe you should consider it? That gun of yours looks like it’s ancient.

Opera: It does what I need it to, and it’s easy to maintain. Gonna have to do a lot for me to hand it over.

Manzana: Work’s not good enough for you?

Opera: Your work is amazing, just… kind of personal. You know how it is..

Opera: Geezer might appreciate some of it though. He’s a construct and all that.

Manzana: All dopples are. Personally don’t like doing mods on bodies without a lot of prep time and talk ahead. Don’t think our limit is good for that right now.

Manzana: Gear is easy.

Fenton: New coat of paint rules too..

Manzana: Sometimes you just need people to know who’s worked on a piece like this.

Manzana: Most of the work was there, I just gave it that extra quality.

Manzana: Gotta say though, tuner are pretty dated tech. Take a lot to really become comfortable with, risky weapons with thin margins for error, don’t think it’d be much use against modern fire arms either.

Manzana: You really need these like that?

Fenton; I don’t fuck with them personally.

Opera: Truth be told, we all kind of manage our own gear.

Manzana: Ragtags, got it.

Opera: That a bad thing?

Manzana: It means I got plenty of work ahead of me. Maintaining tools of trade for a crowd trained roughly in the same crafts and equipment is easy. Personalized stuff? I dunno.

Opera: You don’t have to do any for me, said that much.

Manzana: What about Bucket?

Manzana: Anything there?

Fenton: Uh… you know? Can’t really say for sure myself.

Opera: Don’t know anything. Not from this world.

Fenton: Aye.

Manzana: You two came together then?

Fenton: I mean Opera’s my ride in and out but that’s where it ends really.

Opera: Yep.

Manzana: Huh. All of you here like that?

Opera: Mercury’s a plaza native too

Manzana: Different plaza though. Local phenomenon.

Opera: Mm.

Manzana: So, does it all look set to just release into the wild?

Fenton: Aye. I’ll have someone drop it off soon. Think Spada’s offered.

Manzana: Gotcha.

Opera: Really big thanks for staying the night and helping with that..

Fenton: Aye.

Manzana: I’m just confused why you needed it done in so fast.

Manzana: Did he ask, or…

Opera: Friend did. And we got a pretty big rumor dropped on us.

Fenton: Supposedly the husk’s being stored in town. Geezer’s out scouting.

Fenton: If we can raid wherever it’s being held without having to go through the mess of the auction, it’ll save a ton of trouble. 

Opera: Yeah.

Manzana: That’s probably your only chance.

Manzana: You know how these things work, yeah?

Opera: Maybe?

Manzana: When it’s something as big ticket as you’re saying, they don’t usually have the items at the auction itself.

Manzana: People are given their spoils separately for security reasons.

Manzana: The people sent to handle the auction usually do so in proxy, existing to work within instructions and allotted funds to scoop what seems worthwhile.

Manzana: If it’s all lost tech and black market dealings, we’d have to be able to set up two different potential heist plans. One for tracking and cracking the storage space, and the other for potentially having to go to the auction itself.

Manzana: One of these is way harder than the other.

Opera: But it’d be on this island, right?

Manzana: THis or one of the sub islands. There’s a few small ones up near the northern coastal area.

Manzana: But if Geezer’s scouting, I’m sure he already has a lead on things.

Fenton: Not really sure.

Fenton: Hasn’t really told us, he wants to keep his investigation low profile for now.

Opera: Yeah..

Manzana:  That’s the smart way. Geezer’s tough enough to put up with my shit, he’ll be able to keep out of trouble.

Manzana: Also a big point to strike while everything is still there. Some of it’s probably not getting shipped to this island til the last minute.

Opera: Makes sense, less chance of incident...

Opera: You really know a lot about this…

Manzana: Worked with these types before. You pick up things.

Fenton: You uh.. Wanna tell us a bit more? You can bring your friend along, have this done over coffee or something. Think Rosario would be able to cook up something too.

Opera: That’s not a bad idea, she’s our “saboteur” for a reason.

Fenton: How do you get into a job like that in the first place?

Opera: THinking about it?

Fenton: Not my thing. Hickory though? Absolutely.

Opera: Hundred percent. Miss them…

Fenton: You’ll get a chance soon… Honestly Zana, you two would probably get along.

Opera: Blue?

Fenton: Blue.

Manzana: I’m sorry?

Opera: You’ll see.

Fenton: Honestly, once you’re wrapped up-

Manzana: I can have it ready to go in ten minutes.

Opera: Tested?

Manzana: It should just be fine, everyone involved did their homework on the subject.

Fenton: Finish up, join us for breakfast?

Manzana: Bucket already called dibs.

Fenton: Really?

Opera: No offense but what for?

Manzana: Wants to talk to Charon, for some reason wants me to be there…

Fenton: No offense, that’s their problem to figure out.

Opera: Honestly I wanna be there too.

Fenton: Wait, really?

Opera: Yeah, I wanna mutiny.

Manzana: You can relax.

Fenton: She does have a point though, don’t really feel like having a complete stranger in charge of this operation.

Manzana: I got it covered, I know their type.

Manzana: Breakfast is going to have to happen some other time but..

Manzana: if you’dd be up for lunch..

Fenton: Consider it done, dessert and everything. Your friend can come too. She..

Opera: Needle.

Fenton: Yeah, Needle. She gonna be good for that?

Manzana: Think so, someone should probably wake her up soon though.

Fenton: I gotcha.

Manzana: So like,, what-

There was a knock on the door.

Opera: Come on in.

The door creaks open. Pokes through is the clawed gauntlet of a proxy.