REFURBISHED [Morbitia Renovarse]

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[image description: Despina without a mask wearing a cracked pair of glasses. Their true face is pitch black with messy curly hair and a muzzle like a cartoon simplification of a bird. There is a certain leathery shine to their beak, light reflecting.]

The two of you have settled into a booth in the library section of the archives. Though they're designed to allow private spaces to study and research, they tend to be good spots for having small meetings. Your spidery colleague makes his way with little effort or fanfare, locking the door behind. 

Diver: You settled in fine?

Despina: Good as I'll be.

Diver: Just you right now? 

Despina: Savvy's gone ahead, they wanted to check in on Romero. Good to see them getting along so quickly, takes a bit off me.

Diver: Hard to keep an eye on?

Despina: Needs more than a few wounded witches and a few proxies in the lobby, you know? Friends who can keep up with someone as active as them. 

Diver: Friends who can cover for them at work if shit hits the fan. 

Despina: Mm... 

Diver: You plan this at all or...

Despina: No? As much as I consider them and the others I handle contractually my responsibility I don't meddle more than I need to. Keeping them safe is one thing, managing their lives like that...

Diver: I mean you shelter Savvy pretty actively, more than just "a friend." People worry about you, you know? You got like any friends you don't treat like a kid? Keep up with your old crew like that or-

Despina: We're still talking. 

Diver: Off shift.

Despina: It's been all work these days. 

Diver: Yeah but like.. I dunno. People don't want a boss or a mom hovering over them when they clock out but... get the sense you never turn that off. 

Despina: Can I ask you how things are with your people? 

Diver: I mean I'm busy but I take the time to drink with my folks. I'm still close to my old team, we call every other day. You... well, you literally got a mask on at all times. 

Despina: You're one to talk. 

Diver: My smile's still my own you know... you got your old glasses on you? Called yourself a wounded witch.

Despina: In my pockets... 

Diver: Put 'em on, let me see the real you right now.

You carefully pull out your old lens, cracked and shining with the mark of a few too many supernatural accidents. 

Diver: Things went bad for you pretty early, yeah? 

Despina: Never such thing as early.

Diver: You're what, 30? 

Despina: 33. 

Diver: That's hella early to get scuffed like that. 

Despina: And not at all uncommon in this field. That's why it's proper etiquette for any witch scarred permanently by their field of work to keep their lens on their person. Solidarity with your comrades. 

Diver: How often you get the chance to share that with other people though? When you keep to yourself...

Despina: Enough. 

Diver: Is it really?

He proceeds to shuffle through his own pockets, circular lens with swirls cracked in form that felt almost deliberate. 

Despina: You too then, figured. 

Diver: Yeah. I mean why else do you end up with a different body, you know? 

Despina: Aesthetics, fulfillment of needs.

Diver: First one's a little true, I was given some options but... you know? Shit goes down, gotta figure out a way to keep yourself going. 

Despina: Your model's not public though. Means either you paid deep, got connections, or-

Diver: Or It's stolen. Not that anyone can prove it. 

Despina: You cozy with any gene archivists?

Diver: Nah, too much effort. 

Despina: Then you obtained it by alternative means. 

Diver: Long as you don't ask specifics, absolutely. 

Despina: A troublemaker.

Diver: Mmhmm.. 

Despina: You're looking for colleagues who aren't-

Diver: Going to be sticks in the mud? Yeah. If you're a witch, not born into a coven family, and you're as overly serious as the dudes I'm working with? Something is wrong. People like that rub me wrong being the majority at the top right now. Not in the spirit of things. 

Despina: You want practical but a people person. I mean I'm one of those things-

Diver: Are you though? 

The false fiend reaches toward your face. 

Diver: Can I see? 

Despina: The mask?

Diver: Your face. Not whatever entity you're filling the shape of right now, no puppetry or costumes. Just you quickly. 

Despina: It's a lot to ask when we hardly know each other. 

Diver: But? 

Despina: You're assuming there's a but. 

Diver: Isn't there?

Despina: A little bit. 

Diver: Then fill out the rest. But....? 

Despina: But nobody really asks me without it being a fetish thing... 

You fiddle with your glasses in your hands for a moment. 

Diver: If you really don't want to-

Despina: I'm interested in whatever potential alliance you're offering, I'm also very aware that the way things have been operating are putting more strain workload-wise for gains that aren't sustainable or significantly better. They just want people to stay busy but they avoid being direct. 

Diver: You get it then. 

Despina: What made you think I'd be up for this sort? I'm not exactly any lighter-

Diver: The company you keep. People around you are too... honest, comfortable around you. Speaks a million words.... but also you can't internalize them as real friends. Starving yourself of a good life. 

Despina: Maybe. Deserve it to a degree. 

Diver: Don't feel it. 

Despina: Like I said, hardly know each other. 

Diver: Your case isn't exactly secret above, have to disagree. 

He stands up to stretch for a brief moment. 

Despina: You have something to say. 

Diver: Bit preachy. 

Despina: Go on. 

Diver: Someone who fucks up and does everything possible to make up for it... to the point where they might grow old and die never believing they've got good in them after...

Diver: ...I dunno, rings more earnest than someone who's never kicked a puppy in their life as far as we know. Harder to atone and accept that means you might not be forgiven in the end, proof of stronger character as far as I'm concerned.

You quickly slide the mask off, glasses on.

You feel exposed, the cracked lens being the only protection you and your soul have from the gaze of the world. 

The fiend gives you a big smile. 

Diver: There you go! Bird.

Despina: Not quite anymore... 

Diver: You from a coven family? 

Despina: Mmm... 

Diver: Marcos Justicia, understudy according to your files. You both related at all or-

Despina: Student of a old mentor, Javi Blanc. Wanted to see some practice in the city, got the blessing to take him in for them for a few years. 

Diver: Mm.. noted, noted. I got a message so give me just one sec. 

They pull out their phone quickly.

Despina: Everything alright? 

Diver: Yeah. I might have to put a pin in this but... this week I wanna have your crew and mine meet. Think it'd be good to trade notes over a group lunch. I wanna expand networks a bit, something that doesn't rely on the bigger branches as much in case. 

You nod, quick to put away your glasses and reach for your mask. 

The fiend puts a finger on your hand just as you grab the rim.

Diver: I want you to open up to your guys more if you're gonna do this. Can you do that much? 

Despina:... I don't know if I can. 

Diver: Think you should at least try, you know? Maybe call some old friends more too if you're able. 

Despina: I'll see what I can do. 

The Fiend lets your hand free, you're quick to slap the mask back onto your face until it's no longer your own.

You adjust it, making sure you can see through just fine and-

Diver has already managed to make his escape, the door still swung open.

Your friend waving at you from the other end holding a labeled paper bag.

Savvy: Hey! Had to get help covering your meds, talks go okay?

Despina: As good as they could be. 

Savvy: ..That bad?

Despina: No, it's nice for once. Lets wrap up business here and I'll fill you in.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

File 3-1: Guinea Pigs
Perspective: Savvy

[image description: Savvy at the doorway of Romero and Roost, both dressed in casual attire. Roost has wrapped his arms around Romero's taller self, the latter sweating in response.]

A hour before noon, you and your new friend are to meet up with Despina and Diver today. A new project is to be proposed, one that the both of you will serve as frontrunners of in the effort to build networks beyond the leadership of the archival system. 

It made you a little nervous but... if you're being trusted with this kind of responsibility, that's some kind of progress. 

The door creeks open, Romero poking his head out with his hair a mess and stare a little unfocused. 

You doubt he slept all that much and you have a good hunch someone is to blame..

Savvy: Hey! Here to pick you up for today's meeting. You gonna be good for that?

Romero: Yeah.

Savvy: You sure? You don't look all that ready-

Romero: Can be in just a sec, hold on-

Roost: Who's at the door?

The entity had popped in, arms wrapped tightly around his waist affectionately.

Roost: Is that breakfast? Thought we decided we'd be going out-

He pauses to really get a good look at you.

Roost: Don't think we ordered shrimp.. 

Savvy: Shrimp's ordering you.

Roost: The death that I deserve.. make it quick. 

Romero: Don't think anyone's dying today. 

Savvy: Not as far as I know.

Roost: Disappointment. I didn't get much opportunity to talk yesterday, you belong to that rabbit? 

Savvy: Uh... no? I think she broke up with me actually... maybe?

Roost: You're wearing her brand so I don't know if she's truly that quick to be done with you.

Romero: Really? 

Roost: Mmhmm! Show me your hand. 

You give him a nod, holding it out for him to get a better look.

His weird sleeve fingers yank you down closer to his height.

Savvy: C-careful!

He seems to ignore you some what.

Roost: Mmm, she's proposed to you, maybe not in the way you'd like.. You didn't sign anything, did you? 

Savvy: No? I don't think so.

Roost: Can't pin down what kind of enchantment she's trying to pin on you but for something so small and without contract? Smells like a tracker.

Savvy: Really?

Roost: Mmhmm. You should hand it to me to hold onto, I get a bad sign from it?

Romero: Think we're in danger?

Roost: At least our fishy ally here is. Hand a potential client a trinket, make it easy for them to contact you in a pinch. Deals made stacked in her favor, she gets the lion's share in reward for doing you the minimum. Hook, line, sinker. 

Romero: ...You really could piece together that much?

Roost: Am I not of the same collar? 

Romero: Uh.... I guess? 

Roost: We're both merchants of destruction, that rabbit is not remotely normal about either on a glance. 

Romero: Yeah ... she tried to sign me up, got pretty steamed that I was already locked in with a bigger entity. Apologized to her, asked me out and then walked cause I was "too nice to hate fuck."

Roost: She saw great potential in you... but I don't think she'd be responsible with a Ferryman like you. Bringer of the end does not need a enabler. 

Savvy: Bringer of the end? You? 

Romero: Allegedly, yeah. 

Savvy: I mean... I guess anyone can in the right place and time but you don't like... I dunno. Feels wrong to call you anything like that. 

Romero: That a good thing..?

Savvy: I think so, you're chill and usually folks like that are so... tense. Tired.

Roost: Too nice for that life I think, and his entity prevents me from ruining him.

Savvy: Yeah, like it doesn't fit I guess. 

Roost: It could but not anytime soon I'd gather. For now though my little ceviche, I'd be careful. Your past is a blank slate and you're prime material to take advantage of. Despina's scary though so that might be your grace. Rabbit has to work for you.

Romero: You think she's got something funny in mind? Like anytime soon at least?

Roost: Maybe. If I were her I'd at least see if I could upgrade to a taller vessel. 

Romero: She gets insecure about the whole being short thing... offered to rent me out but then I asked what I was supposed to do and she didn't really have a answer. 

Savvy: Guess I'm a good bit taller than most, yeah.

Roost: Mmhmm! I do think you'd be best handing me that little precious, ring like that will only lead to bad things.

You ponder for a moment. 

Roost: THis seems like a difficult choice for you, have me worried right now

Savvy: Do you have to actually wear it? 

Roost: Mm? 

Savvy: Like if you're close by..

Roost: In theory no but-

Savvy: In that case, I'm thinking you're just coming with me today. 

Roost: I' be close to you, still within temptation's reach. Plus you've gotta be a fool for trusting me so quickly-

Romero grabs the donkey by the air, getting a yelp out of him.

Roost: You will not silence me without a fight-!

Romero: Relax, I got an idea.

The ferryman leaned up close, whispering directly into his ear until his mouth curled into a mischievous smile. 

Roost: I see the vision, and you can really promise that much-?

Romero: Just play it cool for now and yeah. 

Roost: You drive a hard bargain... I expect nothing less than real satin though. Good materials that show off the bod.  

Romero: Easy. 

The donkey holds out his arms to you. 

Roost: Take me away, imitation crab. 

Savvy: Imitation...

Romero: Just carry him for now, should keep your signal down.

Savvy: This isn't a setup to a sex thing, right?

Romero: Nah, I got that part covered. 

Roost: My Ferryman... 

Savvy: Really need to confirm that before we go...

Romero: Just carry him for now, jam your signal and we can present it to folks at the meeting. Sure Despina's at least accounted since they saw ya'll claiming. it. Santana couldn't take two higher ups like that, you know? 

Roost: Nor a entity like myself for that matter...

Savvy: Trick up the sleeve?

Roost: Many. Let's get going and you should see for yourself soon enough.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[image description: Despina wearing a snake mask and cute sweater and scarf combo in front of a monitor displaying a photo of a entity woman wearing a fancy large hat, mask, and long slitted dress.]


The three of you make it in good time, Diver standing at the door. You can make out the glow of a projector screen, likely Despina setting up a presentation in advance. 

You give the fiend a wave, he's quick to smile in return.. only to have a bit of a confused look at you bridal carrying Roost.

Diver: Glad you three chose to make it, you all sleep well?

Savvy: Yeah... usually don't stay overnight at one of the other archives, this place is huge.. 

Romero: I usually don't get to stay at one of these period, they usually this nice? 

Diver: This one is. 

Savvy: Mine isn't.. 

Diver: Better funding, big reason we're looking into this sort of little partnership to begin with. Don't like the heads playing favorites just cause this spot's in a easier area. 

Savvy: Easier?

Diver: Yeah, you don't gotta deal with the rabbit this far out for starters. She's scared. 

Savvy: Really? 

Romero: It's why we were supposed to meet here to pass along the sword, less chance of incident

Roost chimed in. 

Roost: This place has means to jam her signature as well, her power is significantly weakened. Most entity are really but.. the intensity is intensified around her and her clients. Mr. Spider?

He turned his eyes toward Diver. 
 
Diver: Something up? 

He immediately shuffled for your ring. 

Savvy: H-hey, hold on-

Roost: Just trust me.. 

He held the ring out to Diver. 

Diver:... the rabbit's signature. Yep. 

Roost: Could you have this potentially looked at-

Diver: No need, I'm familiar with these things.  You shouldn't be holding onto this thing period.. 

He scooped it up and slipped it into his pocket. 

Savvy: Wait, what is it though-

Diver: Something a artificial body shouldn't keep on their person, backdoor to steal your scans. Lucky you that your scanning hand's bricked. Why don't you guys get settled for now, I'll store it til we can get better input. 

Savvy: So Santana-

Diver: More than likely wanted to use you as a way to steal data, yep. Don't trust her too much. 

Savvy: Not even a little-

Diver: Nope! 

The fiend held open the door. 

Diver: Briefing now and we can punish her after. Sound good?

Savvy: Yeah... 

Roost escaped your arms and went in ahead of the rest of you. 

Romero followed along immediately after, looking back to make sure you were alright. 

You gave him a little smile the best you could. 

You figured Santana was going to be a bit scuffed but... you usually get more than a day before you find out something's that scuffed. 

You'd probably yell into your pillow later... 

Inside, Despina sat on their desk in front of a big monitor display placed on the wall. 

They were wearing a mask you weren't as familiar with, a snake? 

Maybe loaning you and Romero from their usual lineup is pushing them to try on new faces today.. 

Despina: Both of you made it! And... our entity friend too? 

Roost shot them finger guns. 

Despina: How interesting.. 

Roost: Have to say teach, new face looks good on you. Think I remember her from a party way back.. 

Despina: That so? You might be helpful for today then. 

Roost: I'd be more than happy to make myself a asset, given the price is right?

Romero: Maybe not today, yeah? 

Despina: No, I'll bite. 

Roost: Get me and my new friend long term housing. I know you've been skimping out on him. 

Romero: You don't gotta do much for me-

Despina: No that's fair, if I'm asking you to take on more work you're not really just a freelancer at this point. Plus I like your boyfriend's vibe. 

Romero: Vibe..?

It was a little jarring seeing them so... relaxed. 

Roost: Shake on this, make it a proper deal-

Despina walked up and gave the entity a high five. 

Roost: Easy.. I like you. 

The witch swayed back toward the front of the room, setting up the slideshow to get going. 

Immediately, a image of a tall woman in a oversized hat. 

Despina: Anyone here know who this is? 

Roost raised his hand. Despina pointed to them immediately. 

Roost: That's old Lola, bit of a folk hero in some parts. She in town?

Despina: That's correct, gold star for you. Since all of you managed to navigate Santana without any immediate issue, figure you could try and find her. Have a talk with her about coming here. 

Romero; You want a entity here? 

Despina: I let Roost in, no? 

Romero: Yeah but like.. usually these places are uptight about that. You guys well.. 

Savvy: Why haven't you given him full board actually? 

Despina: True! It's been overdue for a long time. Only fair to-

The witch falls silent, body suddenly shivering as both hands attempt to reach for another mask. 

Diver immediately swoops in to grab one of their wrists. 

Diver: You okay? 

The snake mask pressed its muzzle into the fiend's shoulder. 

Savvy; What's wrong? 

Diver: Just.. faces arguing I think. Give them a sec to resolve.. 

You'd seen them plenty of nights hiding under blankets with their masked removed, refusing to operate without one and many on the wall that never get used. The snake is one that often stays mounted, only lowered to be kept clean. 

The with relaxes their posture. 

Diver: There you go.. 

Despina: Sorry about that, scaring people wasn't on today's agenda. 

Savvy: You need to rest-?

Diver: That.. sounds like the move. Lets drop the whole formality. Fill you in on how things are going to differ, maybe give some personal updates. Sound good? 

Despina gave a nod that's distinctly theirs. 

Diver: Good. We're still launching today regardless since it's a low risk gig. Take five. 

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[image description: A woman stands at a doorway. She is tall, with a spider-web patterned dress and long messy black hair. She has a cat-like mouth, 4 unusual cartoonish eyes, and a tail that matches her hair.]

Despina sat to the side, taking a breather while Diver took initive in wrapping up the details of the briefing. 

Diver: So the short of it is, we want you both to look for stray entities, get in contact, see if we can get a good thing going. 

Savvy: I mean we got one right now. 

Romero: Yeah, don't think he really has anywhere to go.. 

Roost: Nope! I'm living off residuals from licensing my likeness out. Turns out I'm quite in right now.. 

Diver: Yeah? In what way? 

Roost: What do you mean? 

Diver: Haven't seen you around, is it overseas or-

Roost: Online, many opportunities there these days for those like myself who've struggled to find a good client. Unless.. one of you would like to sign? 

Romero: Styx would kill me.. 

Savvy: I thought I had a thing with Santana but.. 

Diver: Yeah I wouldn't recommend that. 

Roost turns toward Despina with a silly look on his face.

Despina: Got my hands busy, know how it is. 

Roost: The mask thing does make me want to just give it to you for free admittedly. I've never heard of such magic before being in the hands of a mortal like yourself.

Despina: You're a little too sweet for that. Looking for real bastards. 

Roost: You would be quite surprised. I have to say though, I'm curious who's face that is right now. Might have known her in the past. 

Despina made a mock hiss at him. 

Roost: Not even a hint?

Despina: Maybe one day but not today.

Roost: Suppose we all have our secrets to keep... 

Despina: Not forever if you play your cards rigt. Prove you can behave... 

They slipped a finger under their snake mask. 

Despina: And you'll get to learn a bit more, maybe even some burgers? God knows I'm craving lunch after today's job.

Roost tugs on Romero's arm.

Romero: H-hey-

Roost: This is a group effort, the entire squad. I expect a large table.

The snake snickered. 

Despina: That's the spirit. You behave and I'll take ya'll out for burgers later. Sound good? 

Diver: Does that include-

Despina: You're paying for yourself today, but you're invited too. 

Diver: I'll take it... We both handling comms today? 

Despina: Mm, you're hosting though I think. You've got a more secure network than anything I can get started. 

Diver: Do I? 

Despina: You and Savvy both had your bodies made by Once_More. Should be able to link up just fine. 

Diver: This body is also modeled after a sapient plague, there's going to be random passerbys and stragglers there.

Despina: Any of them gonna bother you? 

Diver: Well no... but Romero? Can't really hook him up-

The fish holds up a little floating diamond, both as thin as paper and glistening as glass. 

Romero: I got ways to keep in touch, I'm good. Besides.. if it's just gonna be me, Savvy, and Roost going out I think we'll be fine. Savvy could just pass along the message, yeah?

Diver: Not if seperated from you.

Romero: I got proxy who can find 'em in a heartbeat. 

Diver: Do you? 

Despina: Mm.. not sure what its full capacity is but it seems reliable. It's uh... bit of a helpful mole. Bit selective on who she talks to, but Brass is reliable.

Romero: She likes to keep things closer to the vest than that..

Despina: She can scream at me later all she wants. For now... 

Despina looked you straight in the eye.

Despina: You feel up for giving Diver's network a shot?

Savvy: I can try. How do we uh... hook things up? 

Diver: Usually there's a specific guy for the job built to handle communications but both of us are cut off from the main network... but my body's technically part of a hivemind so... we'll borrow that one. 

Despina: Is that safe? There's no worries it'll try and override you or-

Diver: This one's polite thankfully, she usually leaves me alone. Guess she cause a bit of a eruption in one of the facilities, still stuck with piles of her doppelgangers roaming around. 

Despina: But she is part of a hivemind. Sounds shady.

Diver: Yeah. All of them willing of course but uh...  

Despina: Cult? 

Diver: Sorta? Not intentionally. They're harmless, promise. 

Diver offered his hand to you. 

Despina: Savvy-

Savvy: I'll be fine, if anything bad happens I know you'll fix it. 

Despina:.. Yeah, always.. 

The fiend grinned at that. 

Diver: You two are adorable. You ready then? 

Savvy: Lets do this. 

You reached out for his hand only to find yourself standing under the night sky in front of a large castle among many brightly lit tents. It was almost like a carnival, spreading across the horizon. A few endless towers surrounded, so tall you couldn't see where it ended... 

Diver: You settle in alright?

You nearly jumped out of your skin before you realized who it was. 

Savvy: Think so. Lot... fancier than I expected. This normal for you? 

Diver: Eh.. it comes up. We should get you initiated. 

Diver stepped up to the gate without any hesitation and knocked.

There was a moment where you could hear someone yelling on the other end, followed by the noise of footsteps that approached slowly. 

???: Who's visiting?

Diver: Secondhand guy, got a friend with me. Not a entity or a fiend just like.. a guy. A shrimp? 

???: I don't know what that is but..

The door creaked open, another fiend with a bit of a resemblance to Diver. Perhaps of the same production?

You waved at them.


Savvy: Hey, here about the whole... hivemind thing I guess?

Diver: They're not here to join, they're borrowing our link so we can communicate on the job. Witch work, know how it is. Cabby around?

???: She's on tour with her friends. 

Savvy: Band?

???: Not this time, theater troupe. It's a whole thing I don't really need to get directly into right now but.. maybe you'll be fortunate enough to catch her at some point. Think you'd like her... come inside? 

Diver gives you a little nod, letting you take lead on this. 

The fiend tilted her head at you. 

???: A Chimera body? 

Savvy: Yeah.

You offered your left hand, perpetually stuttering and glitching like a broken tv.

???: Your connection is damaged, you'll have to let me repair you before I can give you proper access to the network. Might take a bit.. 

Savvy: I've got a job today so... maybe I should ask if that's fine-

Diver: Time in here works different, a few hours is minutes out there. 

???: Mmhmm! Technically not even in the same time period as yourselves. So... perhaps be careful what you say of the future. 

Diver: You already know plenty... 

???: Yes well.. nothing that'll tempt me to intervene. 

Savvy: So like, I can't mention the updog incident? 

???: What's... updog?

Diver gives you a loop. 

Savvy: I had to try. 

???: Is this something I should worry about-

Diver: It's a joke. 

???: Bit terrible at them unfortunately, I don't get it. 

Savvy: Must be a generational thing, I dunno. 

???: Perhaps? 

They gave you a awkward attempt at a smile, kitty mouth and fangs and all. 

Savvy: I got no clue... your proxy around here? Gotta talk to her on something. 

???: In her room, she was supposed to answer the door but she's probably reading with her headphones on... 

Savvy: It's no big deal. Be back quick. 

He walked off, leaving you alone with the spider-like Fiend. 

Savvy: So like.. you two related? 

???: His body is based off my mentor, almost a exact clone. I myself being spared by her after my initial hostilities chose to adapt my form to bare resemblance, figured she was someone to take after if I wanted to blend well with the people. It's... a bit of a long story. 

Savvy: I mean I got time, right? Name's Savvy by the way, should've probably opened with that.. 

???: Malette, Malo for short.. 

Savvy: You don't seem that bad?

Malo: You'd be surprised, used to be awful but seeing another fiend who seemed to make friends so easily made me want to move away from that. So I wanted to be just like her and uh... we linked. 

Savvy: Right.

Malo: And I accidentally made a bunch of her through some rather convoluted means so-

Savvy: So like a vampire or-

Malo: No, I mean identical. You might see a few fiends who look just like your friend pop in and out of here on occasion. 

Savvy: Ahh... 

Malo: Gave me every reason to change things up a little. Still kept some elements I'm fond of but needed to really distinguish myself. Became close friends with Cabby's familiar, took up some duties to help her after I accidentally created this network, got a proxy as a attempt to get to know myself better. She's.. a bit more eccentric that I expected. 

She gestured for you to turn around.

Savvy: Something up? 

Malo: Tail, have to make sure that's synched up. 

You turned around exposing your full shrimpy nature. 

Malo: Ah..  you're a form of shellfish? 

Savvy: Yeah, I guess? Not sure what the benefits are but-

Malo: We'll find out soon, don't worry. Once your link is restored we'll have access to your schematics, quite handy when going to a medical professional. 

Savvy: You know, you're pretty good at this. 

Malo: Me? Well.. I'm alright. 

A tint of golden plush on their pale cheeks.

Savvy: Nobody's even explained this much to me so... 

Malo: Mm.. That's fair. Still have a bit to go, might want to get seated somewhere. I'll have my proxy notify Mr. Dive where we're at. 

Savvy: Sounds good. 

She made a little gesture to follow her, heading straight down the halls.

Her fluffy tail stood like a happy cat, catching your eye admittedly. 

Malo: Do you want some hot chocolate while you're here? Cookies? Turnip always makes sure to stock up... 

Savvy: Uh... sure? I thought this place was like mental or something though-

Malo: Don't think about it too hard, might accidentally break the connection. 

Savvy: Yeah? 

Malo: Existentialism, like seeing the pencil touch your lines. 

Savvy: Uh.. 

Malo: You'll understand in time. 

She held open the door to a dimly lit lounge. 

Malo: For now we may as well get comfortable. This process is tedious. 

Savvy: Yeah, alright.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[Image Description: Malo with a little smile, pointing to a low res pixel icon of Savvy with the text "Status: Online" written above it]

You slunk into the nearby sofa, taking in the comforting glows and hues of the room. Wasn't quite a office, not quite a break room or a bar. 

Malo nervously tried her best to get adjusted in the big armchair across from you, the only thing between the fiend and yourself a simple coffee table designed to hold snacks and drinks. You got the feeling she was sheepish in general.

You tried giving her a little smile to help ease her nerves, at the very least it let her smile back at you.

Malo: ...Anything I can get you while you're here? I know this has to be so much to wrap your head around-

Savvy: Nah I get it, this is one of those weird mirror realms or something. 

Malo:... Yes actually. Much like a entity's personal domain but tethered to a existing real life location. My version of Cabby's castle.. think you'd both get along if there were ever a good time to meet. 

Savvy: Your version which means... you're the tethering being? 

Malo: Mmhmm! So long as I remain this domain can exist as a reflection outside of time and space. Not... truly being a entity but on the cusp! Can't leave unfortunately but you know.. lots of us willing to loan me a day or two in their shoes. 

Savvy: Yeah, they all sorta look like you but... 

Malo: But they're a little off, mm? 

Savvy: Yeah. 

Malo: I admired someone who despite the trouble I caused her, took me in. People liked her, I terrorized a town and sent its people into months of hardship. Made of pieces that hate me almost as much as I hate myself-

She flinched before she took a moment to collect herself.

Malo: Sorry, too much information but... I made them on accident in her image. They're my responsibility. Many of them are contracted by companies and stuck in debt. Being no longer tethered in a form both powerful and connected is a temptation many took. 

Savvy: That... might be a useful thread actually? I'm trying to figure myself out a bit too.

Malo: Mm?

Savvy: Like... I'm an anomaly, I guess. Body that got thrown out after a upgrade, somehow woke up. All sorts of theories from a separate ego to the residual memories of a scan of another person, maybe a weird corruption, I dunno. It's not the first time it's happened or anything either but any time I look into answers there's a hundred ways it happened. 

Malo: And now you're wondering if you were ditched for-

Savvy: I mean it makes sense, right? 

Malo:...I mean I have seen a model similar to yours before but-

Savvy: Possibly me? 

Malo: Not quite but I know plenty of folks who used to be tied to the same manufacturer. 

Savvy: ...Do you like, think maybe-

Malo: I can ask around. Guess there is something I could do for you after all, hmm?

The fiend smiled to herself. 

Savvy: Please! 

Malo: I have to ask though, what will you do if you find your original owner? Is there a point or-

Savvy: I just wanna know what I am, same as anyone else. Kids with foster parents, people with grandparents from overseas... human nature really. I dunno. I don't have all that much going on so like.. why not start there? 

Malo: No expectations? 

Savvy: I work but that's not really like.. direction. You feel me? 

Malo: I do.. 

Savvy: Like this whole mind castle? 

Malo: Gives me a purpose and responsibility, yes...

Savvy: So if I find out who and what I am exactly, I'll bump into plenty of interesting people and things on the way. 

Malo: Considering you're here, certainly the "things" part is true. 

Savvy: At least one person in the room with me today. 

Malo: Maybe. Don't consider myself much more than a homebody but...

The fiend rose up from her chair and reached for your off hand. 

You let her examine closely with your thumb.

Malo: If you'd like, I could give you my contacts.. so to speak. 

Savvy: Like a phone or-

Malo: Not really able to do that but... I could make it so you could contact me through angel radio. You have one at home?

Savvy: Mmhmm! Using it for a current experiment and- I think I left it on in my room actually.

Malo: I mean so long as it's alone-

Savvy: There's like two potted plants and a brain it's singing to.

Malo: ..Maybe you should check in on that when you can. 

Savvy: Yeah. 

She spent a good poking at you before finally letting you go. 

Savvy: Is it all good?

Malo: Mmhmm.. tap your shoes together and count down from three. Should send you right back, full access to comms and all. 

Savvy: That easy? 

Malo: Mmhmm. Something you won't do on accident, easy to remember too if you've seen that film..

Savvy; Which...? 

Malo: The one with the Tin Man and the Lion? Follow the yellow road?

You shook your head at her, the fiend gave you a playful sigh. 

Malo: Perhaps when there's time I can invite you over to watch it with me. 

Savvy: I'm game. So just...

You clacked your heels together.

Malo: And count down.

Savvy: Three, two...

Malo gave you a nod to proceed. 

Savvy: One-

Your entire skull felt like someone snapped a rubber band, fuzzy briefly as the environment around you filled up. 

Romero and Diver were hovering over you.

Diver: Eyes responsive, pulse normal. 

Romero: Sav gonna be okay? 

Diver: Let's find out. Favorite color? 

Savvy: Colorblind. 

Romero: Wait really-

Diver: They're just fucking with you, good to see it all went well. Got along fine with Malette?

Savvy: Mmhmm! Think we hit it off a bit..

Diver: Cool. Gonna give you 20 minutes to settle and then we'll head out to town.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

You were quick to make it out to the field.

Despite your relatively short time being alive in this world, you've pinned down this town's key routes to traverse down to a science.

Your left hand continued to flicker as always, but there was a little more stability to its patterns. It hurt less, it felt less like dangling flesh and more like hot blood and motion attached to you.

You had to wonder if your body's capacity to scan data through touch was something you could potentially invest in.

Degradation of manufactured form was a fear but Diver seemed to at the very least be well versed enough to keep himself from falling apart, and enough to undo some of the early signs of it on yourself.
 

Plenty to think about as you make way to your vantage point.

You tap into your link to the others to check in.

Savvy: Near the spot, am I picking up okay?

Diver: Mmhmm! Just got confirmation Despina's on field. Romero's been awfully quiet.

Savvy: No response?

Diver: No signal at all, thought he was all sync'd up and-

Romero: Hey! Sorry, I'm here now.

Diver: Ah, there we go. Something up?

Romero: Yeah uh.. had to run a quick errand, nothing major-

Diver: Right now? What errand?

Romero: Well-

Roost: Hi! Can they hear me?

Savvy: Yeah I can hear you-

Roost: Good, good! I'm tapping in through his natural bio-signal!

Diver: Bio-signal? I thought you had a secure device?

Romero: Uh.. I mean, kinda? My guy let me borrow his link and well-

Diver: Your entity?

Roost: His entity!

Diver: Can he hear us or-

Romero: Uh maybe? Hold on one sec- hey! I got the ingredients for the cake, these good?

???: Mmm? Yes I- what are you doing? Who is that with you?

Roost: Is that your dad? You're taking me to see your family already?!

Savvy: Wait, for real? Should we, uh-

Romero: It's nothing like that-

???: I'd appreciate if you didn't hold that radio up to my face.. this the entity you mentioned last night?

Roost: You talked about me....

Romero: Yeah.

???: I see... I'd prefer if you asked before bringing home guests.

Romero: I didn't wanna leave him alone on the streets, you know?

Roost: Mm, I'd be exposed to the elements!

???: Does look rather easy to punt...

Roost: You have no idea, one time I walked into a football field and-

Savvy: Wait, what kind of football-

Romero: Uh.. is there more than one kind?

Roost: Well not American, not these days-

Diver: The fuck is American?

Savvy: It was uh.. in the briefing folder we all found and-

Roost: Oh! They know! We need to talk about the final Raider and-

Diver: Can we hold this off til later? Call me back when you're wrapped up, we got 20 til our target makes her usual spot.

Romero: I'll be quick, sorry...

The signal cuts off for now.

Diver: I can see why Despina's so wary of this one.

Savvy: Do they like.. have any beef or-

Diver: Complicated. They won't say it but between his entity, his natural affinity to draw them and become cozy with them regardless of nature, and his goofy nature.. they don't really like the idea of hiring someone who could potentially get us in that kind of trouble.

Savvy: He seems so nice though..

Diver: He is as far as I can tell.

Savvy: And he gets the job done, yeah?

Diver: Absolutely, solid track record and he brings something to the table others don't. To be frank, if Despina refuses to lock in on letting him stay at your archive, I'm plenty tempted to pull the trigger myself.

Savvy: That'd be nice... know we just met, but I have a really good feeling about him.

Diver: Same. Now Roost, on the other hand is, uh..

Savvy: Easy to punt?

Diver: I need more time to gauge him, lets put it like that. We're background checking behind the scenes at least, a few worrying things, but-

Savvy: Worrying?

Diver: He's a best selling 3D Avatar on some sort of Virtual Reality storefront so he's at the very least found a way to get contracts going to keep him and his wallet afloat.

Savvy: None of that means anything to me.

Diver: As in you're not worried or-

Savvy: As in I don't know what any of that means!

Diver: Ah.. well I'm sure it'll come up eventually.

Savvy: Probably... at the spot by the way.

Diver: All locked in? What do you see.

Savvy: Uh... mostly just a bakery?

There was a old building part of a small plaza that had vehicles coming in and out with pink cardboard boxes and hot drinks. The sign reads: "Panderia de Cinco"

Diver: What's it called?

Savvy: I don't think I can pronounce it.. Pan-deer-EYE-uh?

Roost: Pahn-deh-ree-ah!

Romero: We're at the point, hey. Why are we doing this bread thing?

Diver: Intel said our target regulars this place around this time-

Roost: Only spot in this region that you can get Pan Dulce, Lola will share it with me sometimes.

Diver: You seem to know a ton about her.

Roost: She's a wonderful person, many people pray to her for protection and a change of fortune. I could introduce you all-

Diver: Would she really be that willing to make a contract?

Roost: Ah! That's.. she's selective. Whoever signs with her has to be a good candidate to be a avatar for her and- Romero?

Romero: See her approaching, in the read trench coat. Everyone lock in.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

Even with the entity dressed fairly mundane today, the presence she has was incredibly real.
 
The air tightens, dust moves up and winds grow silent.
 
It was a feeling you never had from the other entity you've recently encountered in person before.
 
This one could genuinely dust you so decisively that you'd be lost to time.
 
Should you really even be here-
 
Diver: Savvy.
 

Savvy: Y-yeah?

Diver: Want you to keep watch of the alternate exit, be ready to tail her if we aren't able to make proper contact while she's there. If
we know her daily route-

Romero: Don't mean to be rude or anything but uh-

Diver: Is there a concern?

Romero: I'm just wondering why we can't just like, talk to her?

Diver: At her level of reputation-

Roost: At her level of reputation she expects a little more than cheap deception as a means.

Diver: She's deeply associated with the concept of natural death, I don't want to risk someone just-

Romero: I'm going in.

Roost: I'll come with you, middleman if I must.

Diver: H-hey-!

Romero: Savvy, gonna need a quick favor.

Savvy: Sup?

Romero: Stay within sightlines for me. Parking lot, visible through the window at all times. Easy enough?

Savvy: Yeah, alright.

Diver: Despina?!

Despina: This one's a bit of a problem if we tick her off, go with Romero's gameplan.

Diver: ..Just be ready to step in if things get ugly.

Despina: Obviously. Savvy?

Savvy: On my way!

With a little finesse you scaled down the building to get to the vantage point with complete ease. Romero waved at you with his free arm, Roost having clung on tight to the other.

Romero: Stay outside the shop, clear view at all times.

Savvy: Yeah, okay.. is that really it though? Like-

Romero: Yeah, I'll try to keep it quick.

He didn't give you the chance to respond before walking straight in.

He blended in surprisingly fine from what you could tell, grabbing a tray to scoop up a good dozen pieces of bread, small talking with the owner and getting a smile out of him.

Diver: ...He turned off his comms.

Despina: Classic gambit for one of Styx's guys, I wouldn't worry too much.

Diver:.. You really been dealing with this for year?

Despina: Mm. Does good work but if I have to sign him full time I'm gonna lose about a decade of my lifespan to stress. Ferrymen are
reckless and he's the best and worst flavor you can find.

Savvy: What.. exactly does that all mean anyway? Like I know it's a word that gets used for entity clients but-

Despina: Entity gauge different types of personality types when they make contracts. Diver is a champion category, potential to make big
waves within a world and its existing systems. Type of person who easily thrives in the now. Me and Romero are the opposite, Ferryman have the potential to sunset a world that needs a mercy kill

Diver: Walking demolition crew, tend to keep tabs on folks like him just as much as the entity themselves.

Despina: People like him and myself are unstable to keep on a entity's payroll, as long as he's tied to one of the most dangerous ones
around I'm a little iffy on giving him fulltime.
 

[Image Description: A tall, horned female entity of abstract nature with a large brimmed pointed hat and a sleeved dress stands back against a window, curtains around her. The dress is sparkling.]

The entity was visible, standing in front of the window and talking to someone. You couldn't make out anything else behind her, curtains that weren't around before now obscuring most of the sights.

Diver: He's pretty calm by usual standards though.

Despina: Unprecedented.

Diver: Gotta wonder what changed with Mr. Styx.

Despina: Therapy, hormones, hard to really say.

Savvy: Hormones?

Despina: Lots of interesting historical readings, I'll put it like that.

Diver: Maybe we should ask Romero directly.. would that be rude?

Savvy:...Why not just ask Styx?

Diver: Don't think I want my first question to be "hey, did hrt save you?"

Despina: Same.

Savvy:.. Wait have ya'll never even met-

The little chime of the bakery's door rang as Romero stepped out.

Romero: She wants to meet you proper, you game for that?

Savvy: Me?

Romero: Yeah, she's curious about you. You're not already signed up long term with anyone, yeah?

Savvy: Don't think so-

Despina: Wait what is he-

Diver: Ask him what he means-

Savvy: Are you asking me to sign with her?

Romero: Can't speak for her but uh, that's between you and her. Wants to talk to you and uh.. Roost already volunteered to help you navigate the domain.

Savvy: I can hear her out, sure-

Despina: Roost?! Why him over-

Savvy: So uh quick question, why Roost?

Romero: Dunno, usually I'd go but he seems to know her already so.. yeah.

Despina: That doesn't feel right...

Diver: Yeah I'm a little worried about that but.. I dunno, no way was planned in advance.

Despina: Planned?

Diver: Entity scam, one leads you to another and both effectively pressure you into a deal. But... they're both already earthbound. Couldn't have known what today's plan is in advance either. So-

Despina: Play it by ear then, if anything feels wrong-

Diver: If they wanted someone dead, they'd be dead.. your call Sav'.

Savvy: I'm set.

Romero stepped aside with a little nod.

Romero: Good luck dude.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

[Image Description: The entity stands in her personal void, monochrome and grainy like the world is made of fabric. Her appearance is a lot more elegant.]

The moment you enter the entity's domain, you feel a pressure unlike anything on your earth. 

The ground is hollow, the air presses down on you enough to make your bones chill. 

You're scared in a ugly knotted way you can't describe. 

???: I'm glad to see you're safe. 

Savvy: A-am I? 

???: Mmhmm! A much kinder world than the one you left behind..

Savvy:...

???: A hero who risked it all for a world you'd never get to see fully bloom. All of you knew truly that the fruits of your efforts wouldn't be seen in your lifetimes and yet you paved a path for those who came after..  I'm glad to say all your efforts paid off eventually. The king is no more, the castle returned to the moss and tides.. the people live among bountiful green and the kindest of neighbors... and here you are rewarded by never having to raise arms again..

Savvy: I'm just a courier, it's not that special..

???: A peaceful life. That's what you wanted.

Savvy: I mean.. yeah, it's really nice.

???: Are you surrounded by many allies like before?

Savvy: Yeah.. well I just kind of met some of them but-

???: But it feels natural. You can see things going well in the future.

Savvy: ..Yeah, it does. 

???: Always were good at making allies, you were a wonderful one in another time and place.. 

Your heart sinks into your stomach. 

Did you know her at some point? 

Why can't you remember any of it? Was it the previous owner-?

Savvy: Hate to ask but.. we met before? 

???: Long time ago... I'm glad you didn't come here alone either. I'm.. glad we came across each other in this life too. 

You stagger toward her. 

???: Don't use up your energy.. 

Savvy: I-it only feels right, gut says so. 

???: W-what are you-

[Image Description: A image representing a flash of memory. The tall masked entity in her hat and flowing hair holding hands, interwining fingers lovingly with a insect like woman, mandible horns and white hair over a simple stylized face. Both of their cloaks overlap flowing.

This sensation is familiar, you can't describe why but..

The moment you make contact with her, hands wrapping around hers...

There's clarity, memories that aren't yours. 

Memories that you wish you never forgot. 

The entity is quick to bury her face in your shoulder.

???: It's really you then.. 

Savvy: I don't really know who "you" is right now...

???: That's expected.. 

Savvy: You only made yourself easy to catch because.. you were waiting for me. Catching you in a bakery..  I dunno, that's too easy sounding. 

???: Mmhmm.. I'm only cornered because I allowed it. 

Savvy: Did you know I was coming or-

???: You were just out of range but.. your little Ferryman of a friend is a responsibility of mine too. 

Savvy: Then you two-

???: Never met him before no but.. he's under the eye of a kind comedian I once knew... 

Savvy: Then his guy-

???: An old friend as well but.. I've known he's around, had opportunities to catch up. Not with you...

Savvy: N-no? 

???: Not until now.. I've missed you everyday you know. Death came for all the others but I'm still here. Every holiday gradually more lonely than the last.. death came for everyone except me.

Everyone. 

Are you.. getting choked up? 

???: Wish I could have one more cozy winter like before.. hot drinks, cood company. 

Savvy: M-me too... 

The entity gives you a tight squeeze of a hug. 

???: I.. I'm sorry to complicate things for you.

Savvy: It's okay.. 

???: I.. do you remember my name? 

You do but..

When you mouth it, nothing comes out.

You can feel it in your brain, the feel on your lips.

Every sensation attached to it. 

Why-

Fucking- 

Savvy: I'm sorry.. 

???: It'll come back to you.. my true name. 

Savvy: And.. what about me? 

???: Yours will eventually maybe.. I.. want to ask you something big though. 

Savvy: Mm?

???: I'd like you to sign a contract with me. One that binds us, one that lets me be part of your life once more.. 

Savvy: Just like that?

???: Mmhmm.. right now is a era of deciphering Truth and Legacy. Those who connect to the past and heed the knowledge will truly thrive. I wish to let you thrive.. 

Savvy:..It can't be that simple.

???: Never is but.. if we are to be reuinted here and now, I have to know why. 

Savvy: ...I can end the contract anytime, right? 

???:...Did I say something wrong?

Savvy: I.. I dunno, just got burned by another entity and well-

???: O-oh! Then.. of course! Just.. give me this chance. To be your ally one more time...

Savvy Mm.. you can't just give me your name, right? 

???: No.. it has to be gradually overtime. Anything else... 

Savvy: Then what do I call you? Roost said you went by Lola, right?

???: With the common folk yes.. 

Savvy: You goof with that for now? 

???: Mm... Lola it is.. 

Savvy: Sign me up, Lola.

[ThreadLurkingComorant]

The entity offers you a ring, just like before.


You hold out your hand.

This... feels familiar.

Savvy: Shouldn't.. there be a audience for this sort of thing?

Lola: Mm?

Savvy: This is a proposal or something, yeah?

Lola: It's a contract, uniquely special in-

Savvy: How do I know you mean it?

Lola: We've got long ties and-

Savvy: Yeah but, like.. I dunno. I've been through this before and like, you say you know me and all, but... it doesn't make all that much sense. Like.. it feels.. I dunno. Too convenient? Can I like, think on this maybe?

Lola: If you need some time, I have room in my domain for you to-

Savvy: Like... out there, in my world. I need a sec-

Lola: If you step out there it may be a long time until you see me next. It's... been a complicated life lately.

Savvy: Same.. that's why I need that. Like.. I dunno, I don't wanna do this and then back out on you cause I couldn't commit. It doesn't even make sense that I could've had a past life either like... I was never born. I just started existing after someone found me in the trash. It's-

Lola: You were always truly special and-

There was a long pause. You felt like you were losing your mind a bit.

She was still, you were not.

She was stuck between syllables.

Savvy: Hey, did you do that, or....

No response, frozen in time.

Savvy: This really isn't funny..

A friendly voice.

Roost: No it isn't, I've kept myself hidden this whole time. You need to get out of there.

You looked around, nothing.

Savvy: R-Roost? You're not really here are you-?

Roost: Not directly near you, but adjacent, my entity pocket latched on directly next to hers. Now.. what you're dealing with- I'm more than sure isn't her, the old Lola, I mean. She doesn't tend to call people into her domain to meet with them, nor does she sign someone on without truly explaining the nature of her work.

Savvy: ...A scam? Like-

Roost: Yes. My kind cannot safely make contracts without fairly transparent on details, lest we wish to incur danger to the client and ourselves of a unpredictable nature.

Savvy: In other words...?

Roost: We cannot lie without consequences, honest mutual contracts keep us stabilized. To pick a form so... we need to discuss this with the others, get moving.

You immediately ran toward the curtains in the room, hauling ass to see what's behind and-

A small house on a hill? A shack really, cute in its own way..

Savvy: Roost?! Is this your place?!

The entity poked his head through the window and wave you on over.

You didn't waste time and made it to the door, watching it creak open on its own for you.

Savvy: Roost! I-

Roost: Just close the door behind yourself and settle in.

Savvy: Okay..

You took his advice, closing the door behind and walking in on him pouring the two of you some hot tea.

He gestured for you to sit. You take the couch and lay down, watching as he settles for a larger chair.

[Image Description: Savvy lays on a couch looking to the side, across from them is Roost who sits in a large chair. The two of them have a coffee table between them, with a pair of oddly shaped teacups.}

Savvy: I fell for that twice, like, why would-

Roost: Don't blame yourself too hard, you're quite new to this and many entities are desperate. It's on me anyway for not spotting her as a fake earlier...

Savvy: I mean, you stayed behind in case she'd hurt me, right?

Roost: I suppose.. you seem quite nice, and Romero is fond of you despite your short time together, so... I choose to take care of you for his sake.


Savvy:.. How do I know you're not pulling another fast one? Like.. already had two entity fuck with me like this back to back. Could all be like this-

Roost: Only those desperate enough or addicted to power. I'm... perhaps close to the latter, but I don't intend to sour things so quickly. A job offer and board aren't something I've had in a long time..

Savvy: Yeah, noticed this place isn't as uh..

Roost: It's feeble compared to her domain, I understand. I've not got much power compared to someone like her but... it's enough to keep you safe and make contact for the others to scoop us out of here.

Savvy: Mmm...

Roost: You have a right to be scared, I'd like to do my part to try and help you feel safe here though. I'll refrain from bargain offers.

Savvy: Like, cold turkey, or-

Roost: For the most part. Though I might have something to ask you later..

Savvy:.. Okay.

Roost: These archives you and Despina come from.. I'd like you to help me reach the books.

Savvy:.. That.. I mean yeah, of course.

Roost: Mmm! Unfortunately my man-made vessel is short to allow me to exist full time in your world continuously. So...

Savvy: I mean.. we can talk about that after, but I don't mind... is that really wall you want or-

Roost: I'm looking at a bed and three hot meals a day, hard to really want much more for now.

Savvy: I guess... you're surprisingly chill...

Roost: Mmm? Don't trick yourself into believing that just yet.. drinks should be quite cool enough now, by the way.

Roost reached over for the tea, you follow suit and take a sip.

It was a sharply sweet initial taste, followed by a bitter aftertaste that feels nicer with time. Like cranberry, perhaps? A little something more, some kind of spice you can feel in your nostrils.

There's a slight earthy texture to the whole thing.

Roost: It's my own brew, my domain provides me with a few wonders to work with. Put quite a bit of time into it since there's hardly anything to do here..  We might be a while, time in a entity's domain is not synced up to the time in your realm.


Savvy: What do you mean?

Roost: Last night I spent about a good week's worth of time in here with Romero, he's already built a strong tolerance to being outside of his own reality. He invited me over to visit his business partner, but I don't think I'm allowed quite yet..

Savvy: So like.. lets say it takes 30 minutes for them to reach us out there, like-

Roost: About half a day in here.

Savvy: Ah..

Roost: Feel free to sleep, I'm.. very aware this place is hardly exciting.

Savvy: I mean if you have anything to do..

Roost: I keep a deck for playing, tarot cards for as those would call proxymancing but they really aren't magical by any means.

Savvy: With the way witches at the archive talk about them I'd never figure that...

Roost: People love the idea, to picture these cards having unique properties that couldn't be done with any other deck you can put meaning into but.. ultimately we pick tarot because the imagery invokes something in a potential client, narrow down what they want without them realizing they're being tricked..

Roost pulled out the deck from the bottom of the coffee table and spread the cards out to shuffle them.

Roost: A few rounds of Blackjack? It'll be awhile.

Savvy: ..Yeah, why not.