#and im gonna have to do lots of chess research to get it how i want

[melonpalooza]

If tldr character's play horror game. Who will die first and who will be the survivor. And which one of them will get posessed/Stuck/left behind. And most importantly which idiot will be playing the game unsurious, for example :

leading the monster towards their friends probably secrifice their own teammates for fun. Forgeting their mission and died by their own stupid action

(we always have that one teammates that Will do anything just for fun even if it meant losing the game)

(The game : phasmaphobia,dead by daylight, in silent, identity V, pacify etc anything horror multiplayer survival-escape game )

the fic has a lot of characters lmao... god. this is gonna be a doozy of an answer, anon. i'm going to start rambling and might not even get all the characters. also altho you say horror games, phasmo and dbd/identity v are very different genres in terms of gameplay lmao so forgive me if i jump around the games bc im just typing the first things that come to my head

i feel like how they handle the games depends on who they team up with, bc i know depending on who i play with, the objective of my gameplay changes.

if it's mostly donnies, they will take the game most seriously i feel like. they're prepared, have game plans and divide up the responsibilities. will do research before hand rather than jump into a game. like they have to know all the game's mechanics before they start playing. if they're the hunter, i feel like they're really meticulous, but they won't spawn camp the hooks in dbd for example. except ig reugrat donnie he has the trolling energy to me.

mil/cope/rugrat raph prefers playing the hunter. they're aggressive and will sometimes target specific players if they were screwed over in a previous game by them xD most of them will go for leo lol. all of them will always try to stun or attack the attacker/aggro the hunter as a survivor.

cope mikey would fool around most of the game (like yell at the ghost in phasmo, calling it names and stuff) unless it's like less than half of the survivors are left and if he's still alive. all the mikeys get jumpscared easily. neon mikey might get distracted looking at assets or smth. all of them are relatively good at juking in dbd, so they'll be the ones that take ppl off hooks. 03 mike has insanely good luck in hiding where the hunter doesn't find him. rugrat mikey definitely leads the hunter to teammates on purpose.

all the leos would put the team before them, so they're often the ones that becomes bait and self sacrifice—if most of the team makes it out it's a net positive game for them.

if neon leon and neon don are both survivors tho, it's 50/50 they try to sabotage or help each other. if one of them is the hunter, they try to take out the other and it's a W for them if they take out their twin no matter the ending result of the match

and just as i write this i realized that they can't play interdimensionally lol (they could play games like scrabble and uno, bc those would be relatively easy to code into the server's bot i feel like. they can play games like chess bc it's part of discord. so that means they can play gartic lmao. but ig how they play holds true to their own brothers anyway)

anyway my brain is tired now there's probably more somewhere in the think tank

#tlrda asks #melon speaks #also not to be that guy anon but you keep using the wrong acronym for the fic #you keep using tldr lol #too long didn't ronin asdadas #long post

[leefi]

The Flower that Bloomed Nowhere Read-through | Part 7: 90-100

Part 1: 1-14 | Part 2: 14-22 | Part 3: 22-34 | Part 4: 34-64 | Part 5: 64-80 | Part 6: 81-90 | Part 7: 90-100 | Part 8: 100-127 (caught up here)

Bal is soooo funny for choosing to simply sit out and wait the loop. If that were me I’d be acting out. I’d be skipping around the sanctuary acting mischevious and committing hooliganry. Hey does Fang have loop memories

SU NAME REVEAL!!! KUROKA!

raises hand. I have another question. did samium also fuck that old man

Shiko is so sweet oh my goddddd 😭 I wonder if Kuroka fell in love with her...

I hadn't even realized how much of a fan I was. That another me had been growing on those lonely nights, only waiting for someone to draw it out.

Even though it was such a small thing, for the first time, I felt like I was able to be someone other than myself. Someone who shined brightly.

Just like her. AWWWUWYYYYYYUUUUWUWUUUUUUUU!!!!! AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

"Fang, Su, have you still got enough eris for barriers?"

Fang looked at their scepter, making a thoughtful hum. "Yeah, for a few minutes."

I thought Fang didn’t have their scepter?

Another thing I'd failed to understand at the time was that this was largely by design. Replicating high-quality food was impossibly cheap, and a low-hanging fruit in terms of helping people's quality of life. It was the politics of spite, or 'tough love' if you wanted to be charitable; choosing not to help others for no reason other than them having not earned it, or at least treating it as not worth the infinitesimally minor inconvenience to their betters.

oh i dont like this worldbuilding that much anymore

“Nowadays you can get your nutrition managed with pills anyway. It's not like when we were kids, when it actually mattered what you ate."

"There's still no long-term research into the subject," [Shiko]’s mother replied, frowning. "And besides, it's not simply a matter of health. There are social consequences to having a limited palate."

“social consequences”? lets kill her

"I'm just saying, it wouldn't hurt to be a little more conscientious," Shiko's mother insisted, holding up a hand. "And I know I've only been here for a couple of years now, but I really don't think it's that bad. Some parts in town seem a little deprived, but the theater is nice, and I've never had any trouble finding anything from the shops. It's hardly Altaia or Old Yru, but it's not as though we're eking out a living on the Lower Planes."

KUROKA BABY IM GONNA GET YOU OUT OF THERE. IM GONNA GET YOU OUT

Shiko’s granddad and Samium were conspiring to use her???? “Get the drop on her”???????? I mean this isn’t anything we didn’t already know but hearing them speak so plainly and shamelessly about it IN HER HOUSE is repulsive

I'd done a lot of stuff for a person my age, especially if you counted the stuff from-- Well, you know. I'd traveled by carriage, bus, tram, vacuum tram, boat and airship. I'd been to seven different countries and lived in four. I'd played in an amateur sport team (assuming chess counts as a sport).

it does not

Ophelia had been unspokenly left out as well; she apparently produced such an aura of eternal femininity that our minds had just silently registered it as the correct call after we'd only been able to find three shovels in the greenhouse.

also me if im being completely honest. *the gorillas get released* sorry sorry sorry sorry sorry sorry sorry

Hey while they’re digging I’ve been thinking. using the dying gods as their proxy has me wondering if this really is an integrated pneuma in some person enacting its long thought out (hehe) revenge. But that doesn’t explain multiple culprits especially considering they’ve been referring to death with different gendered pronouns

She looked between us. "Questions?"

Linos looked to the side. "Uh, do you see any problems with the plan, Zeno?"

There was a pause, then an approving thump from the luggage pile.

funniest character

a possible explanation for many of these contradictions was that there wasn't just one 'mastermind', but competing groups.

One calls it 'master'. The other calls it 'Her'...

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES. It's almost like...a battle of wills? A battle of competing ideologies?

"I think I-- I think I have a hernia," I said weakly.

"What you have is a case of the weeny-whinies.” THE WEENY WHINIES!!!!

KAMRANSU SWEEP!!! im doing yuri multiplication in my head rn

hum. "Indeed, you've stumbled upon the fundamental issue. After all, if what we inhabit is not the true reality, but merely the product of a physical process within another, it seems very improbable for our 'creators' to be playing with tools akin to our own. Our very conception of inter-dimensional spacetime - and the associated concepts of entropy, movement, and finite energy - could be nothing more than an amusing fabrication, with no bearing on actual physics."

Kind of like how a two-dimensional creature can only interpret a 3-dimensional world from a 2-dimensional perspective, and a 3-dimensional creature can only interpret a 5th-dimensional world from a 3rd and simplified 4th dimensional perspective…but what defines “actual?“ is any of your universe “actual”, for that matter? You have no confidence that your reality is real beyond the myths you’ve heard of the ironworkers. I don't mean to explicitly suggest this is a simulation by any means, but rather...I'm thinking back to Zeno's question. "Why turn back the self when you can turn back the world?". Well, if you're conflicted on what a "self" constitutes, it only follows to reason that the nature of the world around you too would also fall into question...

Well, that depends, Utsushikome. Do you believe a pawn is destined only to look across at its rival pieces for eternity, by its very nature?" She stabbed her fork into a tomato, spilling its red fluid. "Or, perchance, might it learn to crane its neck towards heaven?"

My eyes drifted from the tower towards the ceiling of the bioenclosure proper. The blackness.

Slowly, I clicked my tongue. OHHHHOHOHOHOGOGOGOGOGOOGOGOGOHOHHOHHOOHHOOHOGOGOGOGOYOYO RHHEEHEHEHHEHEHEHEHEHEHHEHEHEHEHEHHEHEHEHEHEHEHHEHEHE

She nodded several times, like I'd said something profound. "Yes. That's it exactly." She exhaled. "It's cowardice. People are afraid of death, so they try to turn it into something it isn't. Something beautiful and cathartic, something symbiotic with humanity, just like Grandmaster Melanthos was talking about. So they don't have to face the truth that it was all for fucking nothing. That being mortal is an accident of material circumstance, just as much as hunger or, or-- I don't know, going *bald*.” 🦍

"When people think of truly eternal lives, of sticking not just a few more centuries on the pile but outlasting the lifespan of stars, the scope of the proposition is harrowing. What would we become, in trying to achieve true stability as creatures of chaos and change? Could we?" Her voice grew a little quieter; solemn, almost. "What would we do, without that option to simply fade away?" She looked towards me. "What do you think, Su?"

I went for a third round of blinking, just to emphasize the point.

Why does [Kam] always single me out in these conversations?

big ass crush on you

Ohhh Kam is a 60 year old minor! Cool!

Even though she'd dismissed questions on the subject with an affect of far-sightedness back in the transpositioning chamber, the fact of the matter was that people our age getting stressed out about their own mortality was freakishly rare; I'd literally never met another person quite like [Kam].

This trait she and I share. I was having existential breakdowns at the tender age of 5

Ohhh Su is in her early-mid thirties! Okay yeah that checks out with her mental illness

You're only 32, Su," she said, frowning. "It's a little early to making world-weary statements like that, don't you think?

*looks at su* *looks at orv*

*looks back at su*

Of all the years I could live, could thrive, until all those regrets are nothing more than a single drop in a vast lake. I'm sure the same is true for you, too."

This really was out of character for her. I felt a complicated feeling in my chest. "That's, uh... Kam..."

"Is this really the right time for this?" Ran asked flatly. "The philosophy was one thing, but this is getting weirdly romantic."

Kam scoffed, making a gesture of distaste. "Don't be peculiar, Ran."

KAMSU SWEEP WE HAVE LITEREALLY NEVER BEEN MORE BACK THAN WE ARE RIGHT NOW

"Perfect," Kam said, stepping towards it immediately.

"Feels a little weird to be looting the dead," I said, glancing around.

"This is no time for sentiment, Su," Kam replied. She walked up to the cabinet in question and, after unsuccessfully trying the lock, took the butt of her refractor rifle and shattered it, before casting it aside and sliding the larger weapon out.

this actually became a COD lobby im crying

saw Samium lying down in the bed, eyes half-open, staring at the ceiling. Other than the fact that there was a book by the side that seemed to be gone now - fiction, probably, the cover depicting a ship - that felt a little confusing. So he could read a novel, after all? Or maybe someone had left it here?

Ship of Theoseus chan?

Why did the playwright just look at me

"Okay, so. Here's the thing," they said. "The monster might be, uh, real."

SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPPPPPP

WE HAVE LITERALLY NEVER BEEN MORE BACK THAN THIS MOMENT FOLKS THIS IS IT. THIS IS REAL. IT'S HAPPENING

Okay for all my excitement about the beast is there any way to check if that’s actually the phantasm conjuring arcana they talked about earlier? Could explain the grim reaper but I don’t remember if it could produce sound or not…or how big it could get. Could also just be a really advanced golem since the power was active while this was happening? (And that was the negating factor when they were debating COBD (cause of Bardiyas death before))

I’m pretty sure the beak thing is actually real though, so many people have corroborated it. The beast only showed up while people were panicking

Man I wouldn’t be surprised if this conversation with Samium we’re seeing over the logic thing concluded with Su pushing him out the window. my rationale towards this is would that be fucking crazy or what

So, this sounds like it's coming from way off in the distance-- Like really far down the hall, or behind a wall, or something. Now, I'm getting a really bad vibe at this point,

Have i mentioned yet how much I love fang

Ann says we should just gun it." Anna's eyes narrowed slightly at her name being shortened, but didn't interject.

Have i mentioned yet how much i LOVE fang

I said something stupid about hiding up in the armory, maybe grabbing some of the grenades, so we went all the way up

they are addicted to those grenades

If Ptolema thinks the beast is fake then I believe that it's fake. She’s consistently proven to have the best observational skills of the entire group, picking things up that other people don’t see. As she says, she's got the mind of a surgeon. She knows how a body is meant to be built and interact with its environment. Believe women!!!! Ema sweep!!!!

Can I be honest. Creepy children’s stories scare me so much and I could barely get through that one barn quest in Cyberpunk 2077 and this children's slideshow with the piglet is reminding me of that. I literally couldn’t sleep for a few days after playing that. Anyway. Animal Farm? because there is a farm with animals

no i'm being deadass was that an animal farm redux. it felt like an animal farm redux

It would be so funny if Fang acted the way they do because something was wrong with them. But it would be even funnier if they're just like this

#tftbn #orv spoilers

[westywrites]

Okie so since I did that tag game to list my wips. My newer concept has risen to the forefront of my mind again. And I read what exists of the outline (essentially a point-form version of the dream that inspired it, plus some further development ideas) and wow it's so cool. Can I say that about my own idea?

So I'm gonna ramble~~~

The chess analogy! It goes further than just the hierarchy of power.

So like the idea is all these magical beings/people have different levels of power, and they all "play" for either the white or black "teams". Basically, they pledge allegiance to a Queen and serve their usually political goals (the Queens are the power players. Kings exist and are technically more powerful, but they are also vulnerable, so they sit back and watch or delegate.)

Humans are not part of the game, but there are human hunters who seek to eliminate the magical beings since the magical "game" often puts humans/humanity in danger.

The lowest level is Pawns, who each only have one relatively basic, not very strong ability. One that only affects themself (invisibility, mild levitation, strength, etc). They are the most common, and their life span is canonically "however long it takes to serve their purpose".

Then the power levels/types move up from there, classed by the different chess pieces, the stronger the power, the less common the type is (not necessarily strictly linked to the utility in irl chess though lmao, I don't know chess well enough for that yet). Like, there are quite a few Knights, who have offensive abilities, Rooks usually protect and accompany the Kings and have protective/defensive abilities. Bishops are quite powerful and have a range of abilities, but there aren't very many of them. The Queens and Kings are obviously the most rare and powerful, and in each region/"playing field" there are only 2 of each, one white, one black. (Not gender-based, any gender could be in the role of Queen or King)

But there's still a level above that.

The Player.

No one knows who the Player is, they don't show themself, but everything the Queens and Kings have their teams do is what they believe will serve this mysterious Player.

The story explores the power of choice and belief. To a certain extent, belief shapes power, and, of course, there is always a choice of what to do with power.

#west rants #writeblr #amwriting #writers on tumblr #story ideas #i guess i need a tag for this huh? #let's just make it #pawns and queens wip #i know who the player is #but that's the big boy spoiler of the book #so ill never say here #i guess i should say who/what the player is? #something like that #but this is such a fun concept #and im gonna have to do lots of chess research to get it how i want #there will definitely be a character called the Sicilian #after the Sicilian opening #and a bunch of other chess references like that #metaphors than become titles yknow? #love that shit #pawns and queens

[sunstrace]

HI!!!!!!!!!!!!!! lol, okay heads up this is a lot but I saw the opportunity and I took it. Scott Park: 6, 9, 10, 23, 26, 28, 29, 38, 42

scottttttty 💖 i put them all under a read more because, omg, i typed so much LOL. i apologize.

6. What were they like at school? Did they enjoy it? Did they finish? What level of higher education did they reach? What subjects did they enjoy? Which did they hate?

quiet, studious, moody, distant. kept to himself most of the time, unless he was with ty. his mood always improved whenever ty was around, when they were together in the halls or in the same class. i always picture people wondering what ty did to get so close to him and then eventually chocking it up to the cousin bond lol. imagine girls asking ty to set them up with him. his fangirls lol. his favorite subjects were literature and history and his least were science and math (although less so), because he was bad at them. hence him paying stacy to do his bio, which was his worst subject. that's one of my favorite scott details: him cheating in school. i love that people (even ben) thought he was studious and good at all these subjects but he was actually just cheating (#justiceforstacy tbh) so that he wouldn't get in trouble or appear less smart than he actually is. and also because he had such big expectations on his shoulders and was constantly pitted against ryan. literally my favorite detail ever. it's such a him thing to do. i could see his dad not caring either. like, vincent would be more angry that he told ty he was paying someone to do his hw (and that ty could potentially blab about it) rather than the fact that he was cheating. he'd have the "idc how you get the grade, just get it" mentality imo.

9. Do animals like them? Do they get on well with animals?

imma say yes because of this post

10. Do they like children? Do children like them? Do they have or want any children? What would they be like as a parent? Or as a godparent/babysitter/ect?

i think he's neutral. he neither likes nor dislikes them. he definitely wouldn't be good with them, though. i think he'd only be a bit nicer and far quieter because he wouldn't know what to say. like a random child? he'd probably just ignore them LOL. and answer their questions very bluntly like he does with everyone. idk how he'd be as a father. ive tried to think about it. probably erring on traditional and uptight sometimes. i mean... obviously he's gonna think about like... not turning into his dad LMFAO. so that's. yeah. i think he'd try really, really hard to be better because of that. warmer and gentler and i think he'd get there, eventually. he'd enjoy doing things with them, like sporty things. and would be a great teacher :') he'd want to help them learn to read and write and play chess and yeah. im getting feelsy. he'd do a lot of research on parenting lol. all the parenting books before the twins are born hehe. AH. cute.

23. Do they have a good memory? Short term or long term? Are they good with names? Or faces?

yes, both, yes, and yes. it depends tho. whether he puts effort into remembering faces and names depends on whether he deems that person important or not.

28. What is their biggest fear? What in general scares them? How do they act when they’re scared?

biggest? ben dying. you hear that jammy? in general? car crashes, probably. his dad lol. and now that it's been pointed out to him: becoming like his dad. i don't think he was afraid of that before the events of the rp. i don't think he ever even saw himself like that. it really caught him off guard. it still catches him off guard. because he tries so hard to push down all the home life shit and not deal with it and just be his own person, separate from all that. he hates being labeled on top of it, and he hates his dad. so that's probably the worst thing someone could say to him. ANYWAY, when he's scared, he gets defensive/shuts down/goes cold. he just kinda shuts it out, pretends he's not scared, deals with it. he's fight in the fight or flight dichotomy though, because i think he used to fight against being scared more as a kid. but he just kinda learned to deal with it. so that comes back sometimes. like when he was scared ryan would say something, he got mean. but against people like his dad, he'd just shut down. be frustrated about it later, get mad when he's alone weeeheeee. ig it's a difference of whether he thinks he's in a position of power. if he is, then he gets mean and defensive. if he's not, he thinks it's better to just let the moment pass.

29. What do they do when they find out someone else’s fear? Do they tease them? Or get very over protective?

i don't think he'd care lol. if he thought it was a dumb fear, he'd be like "that's dumb" and move on. if he cares even a little, he'd try to fix it for them. like roma being scared to swim? he wanted to help her get over it. mostly because he thought it was dumb but also cuz he was getting along with her, so.

38. What do they admire in others? What talents do they wish they had?

i think he'd like every talent lol. he likes being good at things. he admires ben's ability to be happy all the time and show it, and how easily he can make friends. even if scott also thinks it's kinda... dumb. asdfjlaskdjf. like why pretend to like people if you don't? but he admires it all the same. he wishes he could paint like roma and ben because then they could share something, all three of them. :') when he likes her later, i think he'd admire roma's spunk and personality. how she's just herself. even if the way she talks and acts bothers him sometimes LOL. he thinks she's entertaining.

42. What are their goals? What would they sacrifice anything for? What is their secret ambition?

right now, to be independent and in control of everything. to not be told what to do. more concrete goals: to be a one again, to live in a nice house with nice things and not have to answer to anyone, lol for roma to not like him and to just be his match for image sake. he do want that loveless, fake marriage rn. sad. i do like that tho. i love that he wants them to just see other people and not be together. i think it's realistic. like people would want that if it was real life. it makes me fkn depressed tho because i hate thinking what it would be like if they'd actually gone with what he wanted. like... bro that's so fucking sad. bad perfection end where they only see each other in passing at "home" and during coffee mornings, which one or both of them have started to ditch as well. BIG SAD DUDE. he'd sacrifice anything for bennnnnnny boi. secret ambition... i don't think he has one. i think he's pretty upfront. maybe, when he eventually does want to be with someone ( ;) ), he aims to be with someone that he thinks is smart and interesting and that actually likes him. which ;) will be roma. so. dumbass scott open ur eyes.

#answered #this was fun #thank you jammmyyyyy <3

[corvidshipping]

modern au red/milo dump while i try to get myself together to answer asks nd work on ATJ:

(tw for alcohol mentions near the end, also this is an EXTREMELY long post, its so long that even after i split it into categorized sections each section could be its own post)

CLOTHING

milo absolutely has no sense of fashion. i feel like this is basically canon - for the styles at the time, he dresses fairly basic, mostly focused on looking put together for his job (definitely dresses aimed more towards how he would like to be treated by his peers, despite his actual position - then again our best example outside of the expedition is when he's about to deliver what he considers the most important presentation of his life, so who knows, maybe he usually dresses like a slob). aside from that his main concern seems like practicality and comfort. his wardrobe is dominated by earth tones - beiges and greens set with white and greys. all of that taken into account, i can see him dressing like this in a more modern era:

basically- a lot of cardigans, usually collared shirts or comfortable turtlenecks (since he does still occupy a research position at the smithsonian, even if only in title), big ol' coats, khakis and chinos and slightly stiff dress pants complete with ironed creases. i can see him wearing similar clothes outside work, just more comfortable - jeans and knitted shirts, henleys, more turtlenecks, and comfy cardigans over short sleeved shirts. i dont really see him wearing a lot of prints, i think he'd veer more towards solid clothes in lighter colors, but maybe he has a few. hes definitely the kind of guy to think of wearing the single graphic tee he owns as "bold and wild".

im very married to the idea of him wearing converse though. i cant explain it. milo in converse keeps me going in this world

hes kind of broke so i think maybe he got the converse secondhand maybe? or a gift of some kind. aside from the converse i can see him wearing a lot of oxfords and maybe wingtips

i want to see him in a hawaiian shirt so bad. i am losing it at this thought. he buttons it all the way up to his neck like someones awkward dad. milo wears a hawaiian shirt to "let loose". he wears it with like, khakis. or knee length jorts AHHHHDJHDSGJHDSJGh

a tie??? does he wear his hawaiian shirt with a tie???? does he think it makes it look cooler?????????? i am sobbing

red is the COMPLETE opposite. in the canon 1914 setting, red is already very rebellious for an AFAB person of their era- theyre openly a suffragette, they frequently refuse to wear skirts even in public and dress in mens clothes even before they were openly nonbinary, despite not being accepted into the male-dominated research fields and colleges they continue to educate themself with or without help, they purposely aim for an "unfeminine" silhouette when they dress, refuse to wear corsets, etc. (spoiler alert- there's a clear reason they get on so well with audrey in ATJ)

theyre also easily mistaken by people that didnt know them prior to their transition for being just a very small/young cis man- even though they canonically have a very soft "traditionally feminine" face

so basically, in any era theyre set into, red is always gonna aim to be ahead of the curve- both in their personal beliefs and practices and in their fashion. theyre also very androgynous in their clothes, although they tend to aim a bit more masculine (thats partially due to the era though, and having been forced into skirts exclusively for their entire life- i think in a modern setting where its more acceptable for AFABs to dress and act in a less hyperfeminine way, theyd be more okay with a fluidity in their gender presentation).

all that taken into account, i can see them dressing like this:

lots of baggy clothes, especially baggy jackets and shirts. they like loose fitting high waisted pants like JNCO jeans, cargo pants, etc but they arent averse to pencil legs. they rarely ever wear skinny jeans or drainpipes though. messy hair is a lifestyle for them- their haircut is definitely home-done

you know how in BICSTLY they used to have really long hair before they cut it? in a modern au i can see them impulsively doing the cut at like 3am and waking milo up at his door cause they screwed it up and he ends up having to help fix it (even though hes literally no better at cutting hair than them. worse even)

definitely have an undercut bob- bob on top, shaven on the bottom layer. they might end up growing their hair into a mullet at some point if they get bored. probably dyes their hair all the time out of boredom and then regrets it later and has to use dye remover.

lots of ripped tights and fishnets, leggings with big loose crop tops, big hoodies, safety pin jewelry and homemade jewelry. maybe some sticknpokes.

all that said, they still know how to dress in a professional situation. since its a modern au theres really nothing holding them back from the education and career they canonically want but cant get in the 1910s, so i imagine they would work at the smithsonian as well, maybe their father helped them get the job? potentially in that case they might be his assistant- after all, he trusts their opinion on artifacts more than anyone else's.

at work you can still very much see the punk/skater/grunge/goth style but its more understated- turtlenecks, high waisted and looser dress pants, lots of black, slightly unbuttoned collared shirts with a loose overcoat and no tie

since i elaborated on milos shoe taste i may as well elaborate on red's: they definitely wear converse as well, probably newer than milo's since their father is fairly wealthy and they can afford it. they also have a doc martens collection. they have a pair of demonias but they never wear them and milo is really the only person to even know they own them, let alone see them in them. they really dont like to wear heels much, but they own a few just to play around with. they have a bad habit of wearing any laced shoes untied, but they never trip over the laces. they also use lace code- their most-worn Docs have purple laces on the right foot and yellow on the left. some of their Docs have (reclaimed) pink laces.

has an extensive pin collection including feminism pins, anti-racism pins, punk-related pins, skater-related pins, and pop culture pins (80s music, modern music, old movies, etc)

MUSIC TASTE

milo's into a lot of older music- stuff from the 50s is his favorite. really into jazz and ballroom style stuff. his favorite band is queen, i think- he likes the old-fashioned sound, the jazz-chamber-ballroom influences, the diversity of their lyrics, and the complexity between the guitar riffs, the basslines, and freddie's vocal runs as well as the vocal harmonies.

sometimes he hums good old fashioned lover boy to red and they two-step in the living room in their pajamas :pleading:

also very into rush. yes, he is a rush guy :pensive:.

also listens to a surprising amount of lo-fi? he really likes stuff that remixes older music with hip hop and lofi elements, like earl grey. nearly exclusively into instrumental stuff but also very into louie zong. he listens to it while he works a lot.

knows a lotttt of foreign artists, especially niche ones. fuckin LOVES casiopea

red's spotify is a goddamn mess. everything from 2000s emo, to classic 70s punk, to post-punk and new wave, to 90s pop, to rap. they cant be easily classified at all

their favorite bands are oingo boingo, prince, queen (they listen to a lot of their harder-rock music, but milo knows theyre into the ballads too. theyll never tell anyone else though), doja cat, lil nas, fall out boy, and billie eilish.

red recites the intro monologue to lets go crazy very seriously to make milo laugh, sometimes. they get very into it with their facial expressions. sometimes it devolves into a full air guitar/keyboard/drum and wild dancing session. milo does not know how to participate in this but he loves watching them have fun with it. sometimes they pull him off the couch to make him dance with them, though

they are a huge sucker for dark pop, vaporwave, retrowave, EDM, hip hop, emo, punk... etc etc. anything that combines any two or more of those genres in an original or interesting way gets their attention right away

there's a lot of sharing between the two of them- even though their music tastes are so different, they like a lot of the others taste, and theyre always up to listen to whatever their partner is playing.

red is a huge softie, and milo has found them more than once listening to or humming something he was playing for them the other day because it reminded them of him

speaking of which- in the 1914 canon, red can play piano. i think that carries over to a modern au, where they could play piano and by extension keyboard. i like to think they experiment with a lot of instruments but i doubt they ever really mastered any others. maybe theyre okay at drums or bass?

they learned to play and sing teo torriatte for milo, as a surprise. when they first performed it for them, they had everything set up for when he got home from work- the lights were dimmed, they had candles lit around the keyboard, they draped stuff in cloth to make it look pretty, they scattered flower petals around. when milo walked in and saw it all, he almost proposed then and there- the only thing that stopped him was that he would kick himself for the rest of his life if he did that without a ring.

HOBBIES/ACTIVITIES

milo is still an avid chess player in this, but i like to think hes in some kind of groupchat or text or discord server for it. he doesnt necessarily consider any of the others in the chat close friends, but he does know them all by name

he tries to get red into chess but they never really get it

he tells them all about the stuff that goes down in the games and they just. do not understand. but they love listening to him get excited about it anyway

"red you're not gonna BELIEVE this, eddie played an italian game on star today! i thought for sure she would see through it since everyone knows it but she slipped and he beat her in like, 13 moves! i wouldnt have believed it if i hadnt been there!"

"yes sweetie please tell me more" (barely disguised pained expression)

red is a skater and a regular at the skate park by the smithsonian

most regulars there know them by name, they can spot a newbie a mile away

they have a sticker of a broken tv with a skull inside of it on the underside of their board, its become recognized as a symbol of them unofficially

since theyre so regular and have been going there a lot longer than most of the other skaters that frequent the place, a lot of what they say is kind of just accepted as the rules

they have a bad habit of lecturing new kids who show up without knee/elbow pads or helmets at the very least. all the other skaters enforce it too. kids dont end up showing up without protective gear very often after their first visit

they brought a first aid kid and left it there and everyone has kept it stocked pretty well without them having to have much input. its kind of just a communal first aid kit

they once drew the broken tv symbol on the inside of a half-pipe and everyone started calling it red's ramp after that

they also started calling the bowl at the center of the park the Soup Bowl and now thats just accepted as the name. some of the newer kids genuinely thought that it was called that by the park and were shocked when they found out it was just a random nickname red gave it one day

theyve brought milo a few times but hes extremely awkward on his feet and could never really get his balance on a skateboard, and quite frankly red is afraid of what might happen if he tried even a low ramp, so he usually just sits at the rim of the bowl while red skates around

everyone knew he was their boyfriend before they even met him. a few of the regulars called him by name right away. one of them was certain red had brought him before.

but no

they just talk so fuckin much about him that its like they already know him

aside from skateboarding, red is pretty good on rollerskates/blades

they tried to take milo to a roller rink once but it was a disaster and they ended up going home, changing into pajamas, ordering chinese food, and marathoning movies till they fell asleep on the couch together. so not a total loss

theyre both very into movies. red is deep into horror and milo likes indie/art movies and just Cannot handle horror at all, but they both agree on old movies, from the 80s and 90s to like the 30s.

red has shown milo some of the classic horror movies and the niche old ones (from like the 40s) since theyre not difficult to stomach

every so often when red brings up wanting to see a horror movie milo is like "aw babe we can watch that tonight i promise it wont be bad" and he genuinely thinks he can handle it this time

he cant

he never can

it is always a lie

red ends up holding him every time and talking him to sleep, but it thankfully never causes like a major panic attack or anything like that

they love going to museums together, of all kinds. they love art museums. they also go to aquariums and aviaries

sometimes they like to go to other history museums and criticise the veracity or accuracy of exhibits/translations, all in good fun of course. theyre never actually being mean about it

SIDENOTES/UNCATEGORIZED

they both used to work at starbucks, when they were younger and before they worked at the smithsonian. they worked at separate stores 2 blocks from each other.

milo cant stand soda or carbonated drinks, red can and will chug a java monster in order to survive a long workday if they must. milo is constantly concerned for their health and wellbeing

they r both lightweights when it comes to drinking. they can split a six pack and both be falling-over drunk by the end of the night.

given the changes in beauty standards people DEFINITELY think milo is more attractive than they would in 1914. cmon. hes a lil twinky nerd. you think people wont eat that up?

he never really catches onto the flirting much though

did u think i would forget ki/da and the others? youd be wrong.

i simultaneously like the idea of something similar to the movie happening, but also just like... ki/da just being a regular person living on the surface. in either case they r all friends still

in the case of ki/da just being a regular person on the surface- i like the idea of atl/antis just being A Place in this au, maybe its a bit of a closed off country though? like, not many foreigners live there and to get there you basically need to be there as a diplomat or a scholar

maybe ki/da visits DC as a diplomat? she is a princess, after all

red meets audrey online cause they both yell at the same misogynistic asshole on twitter

they exchange discord names in the replies of the tweet and tell the guy not to interrupt them while theyre talking in his replies

i like to think red and milo are selected to go on an academic visit to atl/antis (to learn about the culture, with permission of the king), and audrey ends up as the mechanic on the ship during the visit and theyre like (spiderman pointing meme) at each other

red and audrey have so many inside jokes that they basically speak a different language. milo gets some of the terms from context and pop culture (they use "so very" in real life- as in "wow, that shirt is so very.") but he is hopeless to learn all of it

one of their inside jokes is any variation of "milo hot girl summer" and they REFUSE to explain it to him no matter how much he begs

milo wears that iconique tank top on the ship and they say it literally any time he bends over, picks anything up, reaches for anything, moves, BREATHES. he is bewildered and at this point concerned

(in truth, the joke came from red taking a really blurry picture of him in a short sleeve shirt where he looked pretty cute and captioned it "milo's having a hot girl summer rn" and they just could not stop repeating it once audrey met him IRL)

they have a minecraft world. i do like to believe that every so often vinny finds a way in- theyre never sure how- and griefs the shit out of them by blowing up EVERY. monument.

this post is getting long bc im enraptured by the idea of an atl/antis modern au so im cutting it off here but expect WAY MORE later

#paper_heart.txt #s: i didn't say it's the smart thing. but it is the right thing #alcohol ment tw

[ursoself-satisfying]

do you think eugene is maybe scared of long boat trips? i was thinking about it the other day, maybe he plans on going on holiday with his s/o and the only way to go abroad would be on a boat right? but maybe he would get a little (a lot? im not an expert on this) ptsd while being on the boat and his s/o supporting him but not fully understanding because lets be honest, no-one apart from the soldiers fully understand this sort of stuff, and maybe there's another veteran on-board who helps him?

Before we get into it I wanna say I totally agree n that unless u actually have experienced that ur rly not gonna understand what the person is going thru n this applies to all kinds of trauma but just bc u dont understand doesnt mean u cant do ur best to or that u cant still love support n help them handle it n it doesnt mean they're not gr8tful for ur involvement even if u dont understand,, writing for post war eugene is always tricky cus I dont wanna assume ik how any of this goes or the extent of what it entails i havent done this I've barely done any research its heartbreaking tho n unfair n I just wanted to say all that before u get into this cus it's a combo of both asks but also more of a touchy subject than I feel like I've addressed here so that's just a heads up but enjoy!!

Omg eugene my bby

I def think hes still afraid of boats big time,, so when the two of u decide to go abroad for ur honeymoon it's a big decision for u two to make one w lots of beforehand discussions n considering all ur other options but in the end the push of ur families n the pull of the convenience of a boat eases u both into the decision, even tho nothing about it u kno is going to be easy,, Eugene is p nervous cus I mean the nightmares have lessened n u both have been learning how to handle his flashbacks n the like but u had never tried anything like this yet so on one hand it could be a good time to test the waters but on the other hand neither of u have any idea how itll actually go

Even just in the car on the way there he starts to get shakey n then on the dock it gets a bit worse but ur hands r on him somehow the whole time either locked in his or on his leg or arm or stuck in his pocket n that comforts him, ur touch anchors him n keeps him from drifting to worse thoughts it keeps him thinking about u instead,, its till hard tho just thinking about it being back on that boat forcing himself to remember hes going to France n it's not occupied n hes not alone n hes going to get to see the sights w his wonderful wife n thoroughly enjoy those bright French mornings n that it's going to be quiet, no more bombs or raids or alarms just u n him under thin sheets hot n sticky n just together n safe

But first,, the boat

On the boat? It was rough,, every bit of turbulence n every odd sway made him anxious n as much as u tried to entice him to enjoy more of the boats activities like a cabaret show or even just playing some chess out on the deck n tho u could get him out a few times n he did enjoy himself,, he spent most of his time in the cabin trying to ignore the fact he was on a boat at all,, the rest of his time not being coaxed out by u he spent napping in a deck chair w u often lounging beside him n watching over his sleep carefully, also making sure he didnt burn n lathering her exposed skin in sunblock as much as u could as he slept

U two kept busy in the cabin tho I mean it was ur honeymoon after all ;;;))) so he ravaged u as often as he could bc not only were u a comfort but also a distraction,, u did other things as well tho like laying n listening to ur favourite radio shows or playing guitar to him or sketching him or dancing together or once even doing a silly little fashion show where he def tripped after putting on ur heels

He did have a few attacks tho but u had prepared as best u could n even if some of ur cabin took a beating in an outburst u had always managed to talk him down n he spent a lot of time in ur arms

His breakdowns btw would come suddenly when something would trigger him like a sudden movement or a splash against ur window n then he would get angry n scared n become protective of u until his aggression bubbled over into hot tears drowned out by ur soft words of confirmation trying to tell him u were on a modest cruise liner n u were going to Europe n that the guns n the bombs n the tropical climate were all far away n u would pull him into a cold shower w u n he would often (fuck u hard first then) just cling to u n cry until he could calm down n fall asleep n if he stirred in his sleep u would repeat the process until he could sleep soundly

He was gr8tful to finally be off the boat n back on land tho n once in Paris the two of u could rly enjoy ur honeymoon beginning w breaking in ur hotel bed ;;;)))

But then the two of u got to see the Eiffel Tower n the Seine n the Louvre n Notre dame n it was all so amazing!!!! U spent half the time w ur head in ur sketchbook n he spent all his time taking photos of u w ur head in ur sketchbook lol

The photos were brilliant n sweet n excessive n there were def a few of u bare n freshly fucked (pardon my french) w the Parisian skyline out the window behind u, the morning like shining thru ur messy hair like a halo,, but there were also many of him from the perspective of u kneeling over him n many more of both of u playfully holding up the tower or picnicking in front of a cathedral w u plucking at ur guitar or him w a bottle of wine at his lips

It was all v picturesque n romantic n perfect n u thought he deserved nothing less n he thought the same for u ::""))

U spent about 4 weeks there together n he had throughly used his time to fuck u in every way possible n use every toy u brought with but then it was suddenly time to go home n u were concerned about eugene being back on the boat but he seemed less nervous when u got on n he admitted to feeling a lot better after the first trip n this time he actually went out w u n u played board games w other passengers n danced in the halls n sang w the cabaret n he still sunbathed n napped n made love to u n wrecked ur cabin n u still listened to all ur radio shows n drew n sang but ur lives felt more full somehow after this experience

Oh n u def showed off everything u had bought is Paris n as much as he loved that silk dress on u he loved peeling it off u even more ;;;)))

He rly did feel better when u were finally home to ur little cottage for the first time together as a globetrotting married couple ::"")) he felt better that he hadnt handled it nearly as bad as hed expected n urs n his trip abroad left u feeling loved n cultured n more experienced in life plus u both had taken a huge chance n now u were better for it n felt more capable n confident that he was getting better n it was an affirmation that u would take care of him n that u would always be there for him, just as u had said in ur vows ::""))

He was happy to consummate ur new marriage in ur own bed for the first time tho lol n on top of that gr8 feeling it was just gr8 that he felt less held back w u there w him especially after the boat experience

So yeah a quick note I rly do think he would be terrified of ever stepping foot on a boat again n would refuse it n be vvv adamant about not doing it again for a vvv long time but I think he could be worn down n would EVENTUALLY be ok w it but maybe not this fast n tho I dont feel like I go into much detail here he def has a hard time on the boat as well like hes just agitated the whole time n probably was prescribed some medication for it if just some motion or sea sickness meds n maybe anxiety but i would say it prolly makes him drowsy so hes kinda out of it which keeps him calm but doesnt stop certain flashbacks n maybe he lashes out n hurts someone once in a while cus it's incredibly traumatic returning to that environment but anyway yeah he would be v fidgety n not like it but in this scenario hes willing to take a chance given how well hes been recovering n how much he trusts u n how much u have helped him n the option had pull so that's why but rly I dont think irl he would have gone back on a boat anywhere near that soon but this is romantic fiction so ::))

Also I have a v specific image of who eugene is w if u cant tell lol so I'm sorry for that specificity but I'm so whipped for him n his gal I lov sm I hope u enjoy n guys I'm so motivated to finally write out the storyline I have for him I'm gonna finally get out his fic ok I promise

#she has a voice!!! #joe mazzello #not queen #nut #the pacific #eugene sledge x reader #eugene sledge #anon asks #answered asks #send asks #send me asks #asks #anons #anon me too wow #anon #send me anons #anonymous

[elliotthezubat]

DEATH CITY DAYS 105

oh goody, more vampires!

Lucy: "...Well, um...If you didn't get any sign of them when you were asleep, maybe our look in the alley earlier this afternoon will help..." *looks over notes she took* "Ranpo found some faint marks along the wall, but you didn't hear someone hitting it?"

Katai: *shrugs* "M-Maybe? It sounded like an argument--They may have threatened someone. I heard 'bleed'?"

sylvia: *gulp*

Kyoka: "We also noticed a receipt nearby from earlier that day at a nearby thrift store--which is half-way across town."

Ranpo: "And of course, this..." *holds up a big shiny coin* "Foreign!"

aya: neato! where's it from?

Ranpo: "Not sure...It looks Japanese, yet it has this ram's head and says...I can't read it. 'Chinom'-something?"

aya: maybe it's a game token?

Lucy: "We can check arcades in the morning..."

-morning-

shiori: zzz

Yumi: "???" ("She's not in her room...") *notices Kid and Stocking's door open a crack* "???" *peeks*

shiori: zzzz

Kid: "Zzz..."

stocking: *asleep*

Yumi: "... ... ... ..." QwQ ("D'AWWWWWW!") *waves to Lord Death*

lord death: *peeks* QwQ *snaps a pic*

Yumi: TwT *hug*

-elsewhere-

miyuri: *snoring, asleep on top of chuuya*

Chuuya: "Zzz..." *tries to move--* "UMPH!" O_O; *looks* "..." *strokes her head*

miyuri: mm...papa...=w= zzzz....

Chuuya: *sighs* *keeps stroking while he sits up*

miyuri: *yaaaaaawn* morniiiing *sniff* *still half-asleep*

Chuuya: "Sleep okay?"

miyuri: *nods and rubs her eyes* *yaaaawn* *STOMACH GROWL*

Chuuya: "Aaaaaand hungry..."

sonia: *in the bathroom, brushing her teeth*

Chuuya: "Come on--let's get something to eat."

-elsewhere-

amelia: *doing morning stretches*

Kanin: *finishing packed lunch* "Last night was so fun..."

amelia: mmhmm.....arent you gonna do stretches too?

Kanin: "Oh! Um, sure!" *closes bento boxes* ^^; "I guess a lot on my mind..." *rotates his shoulders first*

-elsewhere-

Saria: "Then they were like--BOOM! SPARKLE! SHINE SHINE SHINE!--and so pretty!"

greg: that sounds wonderful, bug-bear!

Saria: "Yeah! It's been so fun getting to hang out with friends..."

-elsewhere-

Ranpo: *spread out* *snoring*

Katai: O_______O; ("I couldn't sleep all night...")

Kyoka: *huddled with Sylvia*

atsushi: *getting a head start on breakfast*

Lucy: =w= *yawns* *sits up* "???" *walks to the kitchen*

atsushi: morning lucy, im making eggs. you want yours sunny side up, scrambled, or omelette?

Lucy: "Oh...Um, omelette?" *sits* "...You're good at that..."

atsushi: thanks, i've been practicing.

Lucy: *smiles* "It's paying off--smells delicious!"

(Odasaku: >_>; )

atsushi: *smiles*

Kyoka: *yawns, wakes up...looks out the window--* "!!!"

sylvia: ??

Kyoka: "...Sylvia?" *smiles* "Could you help Atsushi set the table?"

sylvia: o-ok *goes to do that*

Kyoka: *keeps the smile on...until she looks back at the alley...where there is a spear of blood along the wall only now visible in the daylight...*

-elsewhere-

Takehisa: *cooking* "Good morning, Sister."

Relan: *signing* <Morning!>

rita: <good morning>

tamaki: mornin'! so what's today's game plan?

Akitaru: *sighs* "Viktor is still on leave for 'family' and work he was called in to consult on at Haijima...A few of you will be sent to try to find him around town."

karin: i volunteer.

Akitaru: "Sounds good...but you'll need a disguise."

-elsewhere-

chie: here comes the airplane~

toru: ga!

chie: *feeding him*

toru: *nom* ^u^

Yohei: *filming* "What a good boy..."

chie: *chuckle*

mono:....hmph...i guess he's _kinda_ cute... 7.7

Assi: >w< "Incredibly cute!"

Emine: -_-; "So he can eat--big deal. I am not complimented for every last thing I do--"

Shotaro: "VROOM! Here comes the oatmeal train to Emine's mouthy-wouthy!"

Emine: "I do not have a 'mouthy-wouthy'..." *nom* >_>;

setsuna: ^^;

io: =3=;

Tool: "Still hungry, Io?" *fills up the bowl with more cereal-O's*

-elsewhere-

tsuyu: *yaaaawn*

ochako: *waves* morning!

tsuyu: morning...*yaaawn* late night last night...

Izuku: "??? Working?"

tsuyu: we were looking at old baby pictures last night. then the topic got to how our tails dropped off, and since satsuki still has hers yet, she got scared and started crying. it took a while for us to calm her down.

Izuku: "Oh no--I'm sorry. That must've been challenging..."

tsuyu: it's fine. one of the many things that comes with younger siblings, haha.

ochako: i guess.

Izuku: "Yeah, this is new to me without siblings..."

Todoroki: "..."

Iida: "..."

jirou: *cough*

Izuku: ^^;

Iida: "...CHERISH ONE'S SIBLINGS!"

Todoroki: *covers his ears* >~<

-elsewhere-

edouard: *knocks* <sis? it's breakfast time!>

Valentine: *curled up in bed...staring at the floor*

edouard: *knocks* <we're having waffles!>

Valentine: *sobbing*

edouard:....<papa! i think valentine might be sick!>

Villefort: *opening his door, limping* "???" *opens the door* <Valentine?>

Valentine: *hugging herself, sobbing*

Villefort: <?! What's wrong?>

Valentine: <Th-They're dead! Grandma, Grandpa...>

Villefort: "..." <What? How-->

Valentine: *hugging him*

Heloise: *exits Villefort's room* "..." *smile*

edouard: ?? <mama?>

Heloise: <Eddy? Where's Daddy?>

edouard: <in val's room. she seems upset>

Heloise: <???> *adjusts her robe, follows* <Valentine?>

valentine: <what do _you_ want?>

Heloise: <?! Well, someone is in a grouchy mood-->

Villefort: <Not now!> *holds Valentine*

Heloise: <?!!> "..." *frowns, exits*

valentine: *sniff* <j-just leave me alone...>

Villefort: "..." <Okay. I'll check with...I'll take care of funeral preparations. When you're ready...> *exits*

valentine: *crying into her pillow*

*there's a small pearl left on her nightstand...*

edouard:... <papa, will she fell better soon?>

Villefort: "..." *smiles* <Of course...But it needs time...>

-elsewhere-

Dumas: *smiling widely, humming to himself*

marquis: *making breakfast*

Cervantes: *reading the newspaper* "..." <So sad...>

marquis: <what is it?>

Cervantes: <An elderly couple died in a gas leak...>

marquis: <oh no!>

Cervantes: <'The Saint Merands had already lost their daughter at a young age...Survived by Valentine Villefort-->

*CRASH*

*a teacup falls*

marquis: !!!

Dumas: *falls back, shocked*

marquis: <are you alright??> D8>

Dumas: <...It-It was supposed to be the judge...It was supposed to be the judge...>

marquis:....*hug*

{Lord Wilmore: <--a medicine that is poisonous-->}

Dumas: *shaking, trying to pull loose*

marquis: <dumas, please, pull yourself together! it was an honest mistake!>

Cervantes: "..." *frowns, rolls up the newspaper*

Dumas: <I wanted him dead! No one else! I wanted him-->

*WHAP!*

Dumas: O_O "...YOU HIT ME! WITH A NEWSPAPER--"

Cervantes: *WHAP WHAP WHAP* <Get a hold of yourself, darn it!>

benedetto: ._.

Dumas: >_< *slap-fighting* <I DIDN'T MEAN TO KILL _THEM_!>

Cervantes: <Well, who did kill them?!>

Dumas: "... ... ..."

benedetto: ..... <i'll just...go back to bed for a bit.>

Dumas: *collapses onto the floor in the fetal position*

-elsewhere-

Minoura: *looking at the blood splatter against the alley wall* "Jesus..." -_-; "And why am I not surprised you're all somehow involved..."

Ranpo: *waves* "Good morning!"

atsushi: um. hello.

Katai: Q_Q "As-As we said, we heard nothing last night--but the night before, there was some argument..."

Minoura: -_-; "Okay, Detective, what do you think? Which ability user did this--"

Ranpo: "They didn't."

atsushi: ??

Minoura: "What? Look, kid, I don't see any evidence here: we got blood on the wall, no prints, no footprint--nothing. It's like there was a body, and not even tissue left, so--"

Ranpo: "I don't think it was an ability user...I think it was another type of creature..."

aya: we did find this. *holds up the coin*

Minoura: "...Officer, bag the coin."

cop-chan: *takes the coin*

Minoura: *looks at the coin* "Hmm...'Chinom'? The arcade?"

aya: AHA!

Ranpo: =3= "I still say it looks foreign--probably some group from overseas who--?!!!!!!!!!!!! AH HA!"

atsushi: you figured it out?

Ranpo: "Indeed! Blood splatter. Game token with Japanese beginning with 'Chinom.' Foreign people sneaking in...It's happening again, just as it did years ago..."

atsushi: years ago?

Ranpo: "Yes...It is not ability users--it's more vampires!!!"

atsushi:....*FACEPLANT*

Katai: Q_Q *faints* "I-I'm gonna have to move again..."

Minoura: =_= "I picked a bad day to stop eating donuts..."

aya: but the question is, what _kind_ of vampires are we dealing with. naomi mentioned there's different vampire types.

Minoura: "WE'RE NOT SERIOUSLY ENTERTAINING THIS, ARE WE?!"

Ranpo: "That is the next order of research, Aya. Procure the tomes of vampire lore!"

Lucy: -_-; "This'll just be an excuse for Naomi to read her 'sexy books' again..."

cop-chan: to be fair, there are vampire residents. i'll get to the interviews.

Minoura: -_-# "Fine..."

-elsewhere-

*a tabloid web site already says 'Vampire Attack'*

Black Star: -^-; "...I promise not to get mad...I just want to know whether any of you did this."

naho:....*looks at belkia*

Belkia: OwO "...I don't remember?"

Black Star: "SO IT WAS YOU!" *strangles Belkia*

otogiri: he's innocent this time. i was helping him get gum out of his hair. again.

Belkia: XWX "SING MY SONG TO THE TINY VAMPS THAT COME AFTER ME!" *KO*

Black Star: "...Oh. Okay." *lets him go*

Belkia: XwX

naho:...he's fine.

Higan: "We've been feeding the way you told us to, so it must be someone else..."

Sakuya: "...What if it's _him_? We haven't heard from Mr. Tsubaki in a bit..."

lavender: unless he has an eve, i doubt it.

Black Star: >_>;

lilac: w-what if it's...t-true ancestors? i-i heard rumors about them from the others....

Shamrock: "...That would be worrisome...I suggest we all be on high alert--as now they will be investigating vampires again, and we can't afford police attention..."

-sakuya's phone goes off, and has a very cute ringtone-

Sakuya: .\\\.; "Th-That's me...Totally not my intentional ringtone--It's ironic--Shut up." *answers* "Y-Yeah?"

naomi: hey sakuya, is naho there?

Sakuya: "Sure...Naho, it's Naomi."

naho: oh cool! *takes the phone* hi naomin~ whats up?......oh really?....i see....we just heard ourselves.....actually, i think i know someone who can help you out! ever heard of 'the land of nod'? yeah, they have vampire experts...ok...call you back~ *hangs up*

Sakuya: "??? Why'd she want to know?"

naho: her agency is investigating into the case!

Sakuya: ._.;;;

-elsewhere-

*someone wipes his mouth*

Mikaela: "..."

lacus: whew, what a feast! ^^

chess: where should we strike next?

Crowley: "I think we should ask our scout..." *smiles at Mikaela* "You told us such wonderful locations--"

Mikaela: "Just go wherever."

chess: =3= you're so boooooriiiiing.

lacus: you're as bad as those....'things' we've read in some books. *shudder* whoever this 'meyer' is, i hope to slaughter them horribly.

Crowley: "Patience...We still have to map out locations..." *marking the map on the wall, circling spots in the slums, with giant x's crossing out True Cross and the DWMA*

-elsewhere-

hyakuya: *staring up at the ceiling* ....

Guren: *knocks* "Akane? We're finishing prelims..."

hyakuya: *responsive grunt*

Guren: "You should see the reinforcements...So, um, get up?"

hyakuya: *grumbles and sits up* give me about a minute, im getting changed now...

-girls getting ready, please be patient-

Guren: *opening a box*

hyakuya: *looks*

shinoa: ??

mitsuba: *looks around*

Yoichi: *humming, polishing some daggers*

Kimizuki: *packing meals* "And don't touch them until lunch!"

hyakuya: so what are we doing today?

Guren: "Looks like the vamps showed themselves here--two suspected feedings in a part of town."

hyakuya: ....

Kimizuki: "!!!"

Yoichi: "So, we're on patrol? Okay!"

mitsuba: tch- about time we started doing something.

Guren: *nods* "So let's use that training on our off-time to put a stop to these attacks...The recent attacks were at night, so we'll be using daylight to find vantage points for observation and attack..."

shinoa: right.

Yoichi: "We'll do our best!"

-elsewhere-

Noirtier: *bandaged, struggling to dial* "..." <Answer already, you stupid brat...> *shaking*

-...-

Noirtier: *growls, tosses the phone* <Damn it, Gerard!>

-elsewhere-

Valentine: *staring at her phone...'No new messages'...'No new calls'...*

-elsewhere-

Vulcan: *has on a panda hoodie and sunglasses* "All set?"

karin: yep!

Iris: "All set." *wearing a baseball cap, basketball jersey--and tattoos*

Vulcan: O_O; "Um, Sister? Wh-What's with the new look--"

Iris: *punk face* "WHAT'S WRONG WITH MY LOOK, PUNK?! YOU WANT TO THROW DOWN?!"

karin: easy now. *she's in what looks to be a business suit*

Iris: ^^; "Sorry--just getting into character by modeling myself on people in disguise--Sister Hibana, Shinra's smile, Patty Thompson--"

Vulcan: *hiding behind Karin* Q_Q

karin: ^^; it's pretty well done. well, shall we be off?

Iris: "LET'S DO THIS!"

-elsewhere-

Blair: "I'm heading out, Sachiko! Could you let Dr. John know?"

sachiko: already on it.

Blair: "...How's she holding up?"

sachiko: still stressed...maybe she should take a vacation...

Blair: *nods* "She had gone out to Tombstone...Maybe there or somewhere more, you know, vacationy?" *snaps her fingers, is now in a Hawaiian shirt, hula skirt, and with a coconut drink*

sachiko: *sweatdrop*

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "Okay, we got our juice boxes, we got crayons, we got Kajii's homework...Ready to draw?"

miyuri: ready!

Chuuya: *takes out a worksheet* "Okay, so this one is a maze..."

miyuri: *looks*

Chuuya: " 'These are the Canadian geese...Help them fly to the South for the winter'..."

miyuri: *doodling*

-little geese pop up from the picture and fly around the room-

Chuuya: ^^; "That's one way to do it..."

Goose: *honks, steals Chuuya's bread*

Chuuya: ._.;

miyuri: *giggles*

Chuuya: "Leeeeeeet's check the maze again..." *a goose lands on his hat*

miyuri: ^^;

Chuuya: "So, there are many paths to take...I used to do these by starting at the goal and working backwards..."

Goose on Hat: =^=

miyuri: hmm...

Chuuya: "So, if I take a pencil at the goal..." *traces back--mock concern* "Oh, no--I hit a dead end! Ah!"

miyuri: oh no! D8

Chuuya: "But that's why a maze usually has another path..." *follows a new one* "So far, so good, right?"

miyuri: mmhmm.

Chuuya: "Now we go left, then right, then right, and waaaaaaay up..."

miyuri: hehe ^^

Chuuya: "And--BOOM! We've made the path!"

-the lines float up-

Chuuya: .____.;;;

-suddenly they're in a maze?-

Chuuya: *looks around...tries to leap up to the top of the wall--and falls*

miyuri: ._.;;;

Chuuya: =_=; "...Let's start walking. Don't get separated..." *holds her hand*

miyuri: ok.

-elsewhere-

Katai: *sips* "Th-Thank you for the tea, Nagisa..."

nagisa: any time, mr katai. ^^

Blair: "I'm home! Oh, Katai! Nagisa let you in?"

Katai: Q\\\\Q

Blair: OwO "~?"

nagisa: welcome home! ^^

Blair: "Thanks..." *yawn* "Busy morning...What're you two up to this afternoon?"

-nagisa explains what all katai told her-

Blair: "Oooooo--vampires! That's no good. But at least it's not the Rats again, right?"

Katai: >~< "Please, don't remind me..."

Blair: *strokes his head* "There, there..."

Katai: =///////=

nagisa: *sweatdrop*

Blair: "Besides, vampires tend not to stay in one place for long--and if they do, it's only until they can pick off every victim they can or farm them for their blood--"

Katai: *protective hug*

Blair: *stroke stroke* ^^; "Do you want to stay for the night?"

-elsewhere-

sonia: *in class*

Teacher: "--and you'll have your test in two weeks, so we'll be reviewing the biology section..."

sonia: *taking notes*

Teacher: "Let's begin with the different organs in the typical humanoid body. Sonia, which organ takes in oxygen?"

sonia: the lungs.

Teacher: "Correct! And which bodily fluid transports that oxygen to the rest of the body?"

sonia: the blood.

Teacher: *smiles* "Right! Very good."

-one student glares at sonia-

sonia: ....

Teacher: "Let me type some keywords for you to review..." *typing on the projector's computer, not looking at the class*

sonia:....

-elsewhere-

Danglars: *sips his bubbly drink, pulls up his stock portfolio on his tablet and--spits out his drink, coughing*

lucian: ...*wipes his face* <sir?>

Danglars: <H-How?!> *pulls up news--* "?!? <WHO DARE PUBLISHED THIS DRECK CLAIMING MY AIRSHIPS ARE NOT FEASIBLE?! IT JUST TANKED MY STOCKS! WHO WROTE THIS?!>

-elsewhere-

Daisy: "Yes, your check is in the mail. ...Yes, he's happy to support thriving young reporters. Let us know what other dirt you dig up. Yes...Goodbye." *hangs up*

Fitzgerald: *sips his drink*

-elsewhere-

Vulcan: *on bat incom* "Target spotted, exiting clothing store...He's going into--?! A toy store? Huh. Must be getting new action figures..."

karin: hmm.

Iris: *inhale* "Okay...I can do this..." *swaggers into the store* "Yo, boss. I'm here for the new mad fresh figurines to power up my game system, bro!"

Hyde: ._.;

Viktor: "Excuse me, sir? Do you sell dolls? Like, for little girls?"

Iris: *whispers into incom* "Oh, that's nice--Viktor is buying dolls!"

karin: ?? *imagining--* D8 (now now, be rational, maybe he has a relative?)

Viktor: "And candy. Little girls like candy, right? How much could I fit into my mode of transportation of just candy?"

Hyde: O_____O "...This isn't a white van, is it...?" *reaching under the desk for the 'police' button...*

Iris: "YO, MAC, JUST ANSWER THE MAN'S QUESTION! THIS IS SIMPLE CALCULUS, YOU DIG?!"

karin: D8 !!!! (SON OF A FUCKING FUCK!!)

Vulcan: "...I'm going to fucking cut his balls off."

Viktor: *spots someone outside the shop* "!!!" *waves at her*

misora: *walking along in a rather cute dress* hello~<3

Vulcan: O_________________O

karin: isnt she from squad 0?

Iris: "???" ("Oh, Misora's here, too! How nice.") ^^

Vulcan: *whispers* "Yeah, with a creepy little-girl idol fixation! This is sick!"

Viktor: "Hi! I'm almost done. Anything else I should get you?"

karin: YOU!

Viktor: OwO "...Um, me?"

karin: so this is your little secret, huh?

Hyde: *pressing the button frantically* "Why is nothing happening?! Wait--this isn't even connected?!!"

Viktor: OwO;;; "Secret? What secret? I have no idea what you mean...HA HA HA?"

misora: OwO;;;;;;;;

Iris: "We know exactly what you're up to! ..." *whispers* "What are they up to?"

Vulcan: -_- "This is sick. You are nasty, Viktor..."

karin: viktor licht, misora hina, you two.....HAVE SOME CREEPY SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP DONT YOU?!

misora: ......

Iris: "... ... ..." *brains snaps* D8

Viktor: "...If I say 'yes,' is that better or worse than the alternative?"

misora: ...............*LAUGHING OUT LOUD* AHAHAHAHAHAHAH!! AS IF! LIKE I'D EVER WANT A CREEPY LOSER LIKE HIM! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Viktor: QwQ "Ha ha ha...No. I'm shopping for my baby cousin, and Misora offered to help deliver while I get back to work." TwT;

karin:....*raises a brow*

Iris: "Oh, well, you're always visiting your family, so this checks out. Good day!" *turns--*

Vulcan: *grabs her by the sleeve* "Why the big secret, you two?"

misora: as it so happens, his cousin is my manager! ^^

Vulcan: "And this never came up why...?"

Viktor: "I don't like to brag. I got where I am without nepotism..." ^^;

misora: =3= and besides, no one ever asked!

Iris: "Oh, I'm sorry for not asking! So, what's your manager like?"

misora: very busy, i actually have to meet up with him now, so bye bye~ *exits*

Viktor: *empty handed* QwQ "...This is mortifying."

Hyde: "And you owe me $141.67 for the stuff. And I'm calling the cops on all of you..."

karin: ._.;;;

Viktor: "OH, LIKE KIDS SHOP AT TOY STORES ANYMORE! IT'S JUST OLD PEOPLE!"

Walter: "..." *punches Viktor in the jaw*

karin: *grabs him by the arm and runs* BAIL! FUCKIN BAIL!

Viktor: XwX

Hyde: "GET BACK WITH MY MONEY!"

Iris: *praying* "Forgive me for what I've done--"

Vulcan: *picks up Iris, runs*

-elsewhere-

miyuri: *following chuuya*

Chuuya: "Darn--dead end...Miyuri, you got markers or string or something?"

miyuri: *shakes head*....miyuri's sorry.

Chuuya: "Hey, it's okay..." *rubs her head* "These things happen. It's like Theseus and the Minotaur...only no Minotaur."

miyuri: miyuri didnt mean to get us lost *sniff* i...*hic* i was only t-trying to-

Chuuya: "..." *hug* "It's okay. You'll learn from this. And we get to make this a game."

miyuri: a game? *shiny eyes*

Chuuya: ^^; "Sure! Mazes can be games. We can even make up sayings or songs to follow our path..."

miyuri: yay! ^o^

Chuuya: *stands up, takes her hand* "Now, let's count the steps to the corner...1, 2..."

-elsewhere-

Akutagawa: *sitting in the motorcycle side-car with a helmet* "Where are we going?"

naoya: just out for a drive. and maybe to do some shopping to get you some new digs.

Akutagawa: "..." *nods* "I'll need a new jacket, too..."

naoya: that's what i meant by 'digs'.

Akutagawa: ._.; "...I know. I was...just emphasizing..."

naoya: well, let's get a move on then.

-elsewhere-

Asako: *frowning...petting Goldie*

goldie: ^w^

Asako: *small smile* *picks up Goldie into her lap* "Keep me company while I review the hospital records?"

goldie: *bark* ^^

Asako: *smiles...then turns back to file* "Okay...Admitted after the Slums attack...Now at Haijima..." *sighs* "What are they doing..."

-elsewhere-

Yumi: "Okay, Christa--which one do you want?" *holds out donuts*

christa: that one!

Yumi: "Good choice..." *hands her the one with sprinkles* "Careful not to drop them..."

christa: ok!

Yumi: *picks up Shiori* "Want one, Shiori?"

shiori: ah.

Yumi: "Let's try a donut hole--don't swallow it all at once..."

-elsewhere-

Rin: "Hey, you two--how was the slumber party?"

shiemi: it was fun.

Izumo: >_>; "...It was nice. Educational. Lovely garden..."

Shima: *opens his mouth--*

Izumo: *slams his head face-first into the desk*

Rin: O.O; "..." *sniffs* "Ugh! What's that stench?!"

shiemi: ??

Bon: =_= "Hey..."

Izumo: *covers her nose* "Good lord!"

konekomaru: bon! are you alright?!

Bon: "I've been researching for days...No sleep...Little food..."

Rin: *holds his nose* "No soap, no water..."

konekomaru: (he almost rivals the queen of stink...)

Izumo: "GO TO THE SHOWER!"

Shima: *opens his mouth--*

Bon: *slams his head face-first into the desk* "I know..."

-elsewhere-

Kunikida: "...Vampires? ..." *takes off his glasses, rubs his eyes* "You have to be kidding me..."

atsushi: weirder things have happened.

Kunikida: "Weird, yes. But usually within our knowledge set--"

Dazai: =w= *listening to his headphones*

Kunikida: "...Most of our knowledge set." *hands a book to Atsushi* "Read it on your way to Naomi's informant."

atsushi: um...ok? *looks*

*It's a book titles 'Vampyr'*

atsushi: hmm...

Kyoka: "We'll also be checking the arcade mentioned..."

-elsewhere-

hyakuya: why do we have to do these tests again?

shinoa: to refresh our knowledge.

Kimizuki: "You gonna complain the entire time?"

hyakuya: =~=

Kimizuki: "We'll get through this more quickly if everyone is prepared."

hyakuya: =~= fiiine.

Mitsuba: "So try to remember the terms..."

Guren: "Okay, okay, settle down and take your seats. You'll need a number 2 pencil, closed book, no notes, cell phones under your table, spit out any gum--"

hyakuya: =,= *looks out the window*.... (huh, brings back memories....)

{hyakuya: *looking out the window, tapping her foot in annoyance*}

{*tap tap*}

{hyakuya: *looks back* ??}

{*a girl holds up a notepad with a message: "Hello. I am Shinoa. I will be your handler."}

{hyakuya: ??? (handler?)}

{Shinoa: *notepad: "Cooperate, or I will report you for additional punishment."*}

{hyakuya: D8}

{-...-}

{hyakuya: =~= what the hell is your deal anyway?}

{Shinoa: "I was told how vampires killed your family, that you were abandoned, lost...So, you're afraid to make friends." *smiles* "So how about some ice cream, champ~?"}

{hyakuya: ...what do you _really_ want from me?}

{Shinoa: *sighs* "The lieutenant colonel wants you to read this message." *hands her a paper*}

{hyakuya: of course he does.... *looks*}

{Note: "The army has no use for some shut-in who doesn't know about the value of cooperation within a military system. Usually, such cooperation starts when you make friends in school. But since you're at the obvious disadvantage due to arrested development and slow maturation, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to make a friend--and introduce them to me. And a real friend, not someone you pay, bribe, or do anything else to fake it. Granted, I think you're not going to go through with this, so, enjoy being a failure."}

{hyakuya: WHY THAT MOTHER-....*siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh* i dont have a choice in this, do i?}

{Shinoa: *shakes her head--*}

{*THUD*}

{hyakuya: ?! *turns*}

{*a student is knocked through the door to the floor*}

{Student: "P-Please...Don't--"}

{hyakuya: ??!!!}

{Bully: "Don't what? I was just asking to borrow some cash, that's all--" *STOMP*}

{Student: "OW!"}

{hyakuya: hey! what the heck are you doing?!}

{Bully: "?! Bitch, mind your own business! Unless you want something else from me..." *puts a foot on top of the Student's head*}

{hyakuya: actually yes, i want you to stop doing that to the poor kid.}

{Bully: "Then I think you'll need to convince me~"}

{hyakuya: ok ^^ *PUNCH*}

{Bully: X_X *knocked down*}

{Shinoa: "...Oh, that's bad news...I forgot to mention..."}

{hyakuya: yeah! that's what you get for being an asshole, shit for brains! *looks at the student* hey, you ok?}

{Student: Q_Q "I-I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to get you involved in this!"}

{hyakuya: it's fine. that prick was asking for it anyway. i swear, there's some really annoying assholes in this place. *helps him up* you seem ok, though.}

{Student: "Aside from the head injury. Ha ha ha...But seriously, no, that really hurt..." TwT }

{hyakuya: jeez...come on, let's get to the nurse...what's your name, kid?}

{Student: "Yoichi."}

{hyakuya: got it. 'name's akane.}

{Yoichi: ^^}

{Shinoa: "And that adds more punishment to your account."}

{hyakuya: 0_0 well shit.}

{Shinoa: " 'Well shit' indeed." *smiles*}

{Yoichi: "...Is she your friend, or punishment?"}

{hyakuya: at this point, im going to go with yes.}

{Yoichi: " 'Kay...So...You're another student here? Are you hoping to join the military?"}

{hyakuya: pretty much. i want to fight vamps as soon as possible.}

{Yoichi: "..." *nods* "Yeah, same..."}

{hyakuya:...say, shinoa and i were gonna get ice cream, you...wanna come with?}

{Yoichi: "Oh! Um...Yes! Thank you!"}

{Shinoa: "Hang on--I didn't say I'm paying for 3!"}

???: akane!

hyakuya: !!! im paying attention!

Shinoa: "Really? What was just said?"

hyakuya:.... ._.;;;;

Guren: -_-; "That'll be a punishment later."

hyakuya: ... *grumbles*

mitsuba: *facepalm*

Yoichi: ^^;

Kimizuki: "How embarrassing..."

hyakuya: get stuffed, kimizuki.

Kimizuki: "Pay attention in class instead of zoning out! You'll get yourself killed like that!"

hyakuya: >Xp

mitsuba: so immature...

Guren: *chops* "Enough, both of you."

-elsewhere-

naho: well, this is the place!

atsushi: looks kind of shady....

Kyoka: "Like something Dazai would go to..."

sylvia: *gulps*

Ranpo: "There's nothing to fear once you understand it! And I understand the rules of the Agency--NEWBIE OPENS THE DOOR TO SCARY PLACES FIRST!"

Lucy: -.- "Wimp..." *moves to the door--*

*the door blasts open*

atsushi: !!!

*a tall man exits*

atsushi: *notices something in the man's hand* ._________.

Tall Man: "Mikuni! I found the secret ingredient for the best banana split ever! I'm just going to need to behead your dolly!"

sylvia: *SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER*

*The Tall Man is holding a decapitated head*

Lucy: "?!!! YOU MONSTER!" *punches him in the jaw*

*The Tall Man is down--KO!*

metsu: ._. *sweatdrop*

atsushi: D8

Lucy: "WHAT HAVE I TOLD PEOPLE LIKE YOU ABOUT HARMING INNOCENT DOLLS?!"

metsu: um....welcome to the shop?

Ranpo: *peeks* "Oh, soda! Excuse me--investigation in progress. I'll need to inspect these--all of these--" *piling them into his arms*

metsu: um... ._.;;

atsushi: *steps in* um....i-is the owner here?

Lucy: *dragging Johannes by his ankles* "I'M NOT DONE WITH THIS ONE YET! HE HAS INFORMATION!" *pulls him into the backroom, as punches are heard*

metsu: at the moment, no. he should be here in about 25 minutes. would you like some tea and cake in the meantime?

Ranpo: "Yes, please."

Kyoka: *nods*

-and so-

atsushi: thanks for the food! ^^

metsu: so, you're investigating vampire attacks, you say?

Kyoka: *mouth stuffed* *nods*

Ranpo: "We found blood splatters consistent with most vampire attacks, along with a few other clues that indicate itinerant individuals who travel around seeking new victims."

metsu: what a coincidence, our boss actually went out to investigate as well.

Kyoka: *muffled* "Oh? How long has he investigated these kinds of things?"

metsu: it's one of the businesses he offers here. we do research on the supernatural, particularly vampires.

Ranpo: "Then this should be the best place! We can't wait to meet him!"

-the door opens-

Lucy: *exits the backroom* >_< *sits...angry cake nom*

metsu: speak of the devil- here he is now.

atsushi: *looks*

Mikuni: *enters* "Hello, Metsu! I see the business is still standing and--Oh, we even have customers! Excellent! Howdy!"

sylvia: ._.;;;

Ranpo: *waves* "Hello, proprietor!"

Lucy: "...Oh!"

Mikuni: "...Hey! You!"

atsushi: oh, you know him?

Lucy: *nods* "We bonded over a common appreciation in the fine art of dolls."

atsushi: (wait, i think i might have been here once before myself...)

Mikuni: "HIGH FIVE!"

Lucy: *high five*

Johannes: *his head pops out of the backroom* "FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, HELP ME!"

sylvia: eep! *hides behind kyouka*

Kyoka: "It's okay--the bad man will be taken care of in good time." *hands a taser to Mikuni*

Mikuni: "..." QwQ "Yay! New friends!"

Ranpo: "But first, we had some questions about your recent vampire investigation--...Huh. You look familiar to me, too. I think Poe mentioned you--"

Mikuni: "... ... ..." *slow head turn, voice changes* "Who did you say...?"

atsushi: miss metsu, more tea please? ^^;;;;

Mikuni: *inhale* "NO SWEETS FOR THIS CAPE-WEARING TRAITOR!"

Ranpo: D:<

metsu: *chop* dont be rude to customers, sir.

Mikuni: T~T "He's going to hurt me again..."

atsushi: ??

-elsewhere-

Poe: *reading the newspaper* "... ... ...!!! Karl! Hand me the telephone!"

karl: *chitter*

Poe: *dials* "...Yes? I am interested in more information about the recent vampire attacks. ... No, I am not a crank caller. ... Criminal record? ...Uuuuuum..." *hangs up* .____.;

karl: *chitter*

Poe: "I think maybe I need a new plan...I'll ask Rowena."

-elsewhere-

Minoura: *sets down the cup of water* "Here."

bram: -~- sir...how many times do i have to tell you? i'm _not_ a vampire- *VOMITS BLOOD*....*cough* s-sorry....

Minoura: -_- "We'll need to decontaminate later...If you're not a vampire, what's with the blood?"

bram: it's my ability! plus im sickly.

Minoura: "And your ability is...?"

bram: creation and manipulation of blood, but that doesnt make me a vampire!

Minoura: "I think that's what a vampire would say...Let's administer the tests..." *picks up the cup of water--and tosses it into Bram's face*

bram: >~< why would you do that?!

Minoura: "It's holy water. Are you melting yet?"

bram: NO! i'm just wet! im probably going to get a cold now...

Minoura: *sighs* *presses a button on the intercom* "Bring the silver washcloth."

bram: is it just silver in color, or made of silver? if it's the latter that's highly useless in cleaning or drying!

Minoura: "Hey! I'm the one trying to test this out every which way I can, even if that means force-feeding you garlic!"

Bram: TT~TT im going to die for sure…

-elsewhere-

Akitaru: .____.

Takehisa: *facepalm*

Vulcan: >_>; "So, yeah...We may be criminals now."

Iris: T~T

shinra: technically it's your _disguises_ that are the criminals.

Akitaru: "I'll handle this--not the first time someone here broke the law."

Iris: "I didn't even realize Viktor's cousin was in music..."

-elsewhere-

Joker: "How you like the new dress, Nana?"

nana: *look of seething, unbridled hatred and fury*

Joker: "...So, yes?"

nana: you think this is some kind of sick game? WHO WEARS SOMETHING SO FRILLY AND STUPID LOOKING?!

misora: =3= rude.

Joker: "I agree. Your Uncle Viktor and Aunt Misora went to a lot of work to get you that dress. Do you think dresses grow on trees?"

scarlet: technically, depending on what material the dress is made of, if it's cotton, then it does come from a plant.

Joker: "Please don't upset my metaphor in front of the child, darling."

scarlet: just keeping things in perspective. also dont call me that unless you seriously want to get punched out a fucking window.

Joker: "..." *shrugs* "Maybe later. Also, language in front of the kid. Now, Nana, if you keep the dress on today, you'll get to play with your new dolly!"

nana: *excalibur face* (what did i do to deserve this?)

Joker: "Look, we're trying our best. What do you want to play?"

nana: can i go back to bed now?

Joker: "...But it's afternoon..."

nana: whatever! im going to bed anyway!

Joker: "..." Q_X *humming* " 'When you coming home, kid--I don't know when...'"

scarlet: *concerned look*

-elsewhere-

Kuro: =_= " 'Hello. We are selling baked goods to help support our school and charities. Would you like a free sample?' *forced smile*

suzuhara: um...thanks?

Kuro: "You're welcome...Our strawberry cupcakes are quite affordable..." *yawns*

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "--So Theseus would mark where he went to know where not to go back..."

miyuri: ooooh! ....!!! miyuri sees something!

-it's the exit-

Chuuya: "Oh, good!" *follows*

-successful escape!-

-the lines return to the page-

Chuuya: =w= "That's good..." *collapses onto his back*

-the door opens-

sonia: im home....

Chuuya: =w= "Zzz..."

miyuri: *looks* sonia? whats that on your cheek?

Chuuya: *yawns, sits up* "...?!"

-sonia seems to have a bruise on the left side of her face and has trash on her and her schoolbag-

Chuuya: "What happened? Who did this?!"

sonia:....it's nothing...im going to go to bed now....

Chuuya: "Sonia, this is not nothing--you were attacked?"

sonia:....i think my classmates might hate me.

Chuuya: "..." *hug*

sonia: ......

Chuuya: "It's okay...It's going to be okay, Sonia."

miyuri: ??

Chuuya: *strokes her head* "Come on--let's get you cleaned and patched up..."

sonia:....ok....

-elsewhere-

Villefort: *staring at brochures* <Okay, so they'll be buried with...with her. I am confirming dates for the church...>

valentine: ......

Villefort: <...I think it would be good for you to say something at the memorial...>

valentine:....<o-ok...>

Villefort: <...> *nods* <I can take care of this initial reservation. How about you go out...>

valentine:...*nods*....*checks phone*

*no calls or texts from Francesca...*

valentine:....*sigh*

-elsewhere-

Cervantes: *in disguise--as best as he can--walking to a pharmacy...*

pharmacist: <can i help you?>

Cervantes: <Hello. What would you recommend for a friend with a fever?>

pharmacist: *checks a book*

Cervantes: *looks around, picks out some candy...looks out the window...*

dulcenia: *exiting a shop. seems she's off duty*

Cervantes: OwO *steps outside, waves*

dulcenia: ??

Cervantes: <Hello! How are you?>

dulcenia: <im fine? and you are?>

Cervantes: <Me! You know! Your favorite father!>

dulcenia: .....*confused look*

Cervantes: ^w^; <May I bless you?> *starts imitating complicated signs--before somehow getting his arm stuck behind his head*

dulcenia:.....(what the fresh fuck?)

Cervantes: <I know it is not proper for a man--*GRUNTS*--of the cloth to say this, but--*GROANS*--you seem like a very kind, sweet lady with pretty eyes. Care to split a candy bar~?>

dulcenia: ...*blink*

Cervantes: <You strike me as a connoisseur. Proprietor! Your finest Three Musketeers candy bar!>

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "...Feel better?"

sonia: ...*small nod*

Chuuya: "Okay...Hungry? We can make dinner or just something small..."

sonia:...im not hungry...

Chuuya: "...Alright...You know you can tell me if something is wrong."

sonia:....can i stay home tomorrow?

Chuuya: *nods* "Sure."

miyuri: *peeks in*

Chuuya: "Want to watch a movie?"

sonia:...*hides under the covers*

miyuri: papa? is sonia ok?

Chuuya: "...She will need some time to rest."

-elsewhere-

Lucy: "I hope this information is helpful..." *brushing a doll's hair*

Mikuni: ^w^ "I think so~"

atsushi: anything we should know about these vampires?

Mikuni: "There are others who are also hunting them, so be careful not to get in their way...Also, there are some vampires that take the form of animals, so I'd be suspicious of them."

atsushi:... >->

*knock knock*

atsushi: YEEP!

*the door's bell jingles as it's opened*

atsushi: oh, poe, rowena, fancy seeing you guys here.

Lucy: "Hi!" *smiles*

Mikuni: Q___Q;;;;

rowena: hello mikuni ^////^ is johannes in?

Poe: *frightening stare*

Mikuni: O_____O;;;; "I think Lucy knocked him unconscious and dragged him into the back..."

Lucy: *proud nod*

rowena: oh no!

Poe: "Perhaps some smelling salts would work..." *towers over Mikuni, who falls deeper into his seat*

Mikuni: "A-Allow me!" *runs into the back--slapping sounds are heard*

Johannes: "AH! THE CATFISHES ARE SLAPPING ME AGAIN!"

atsushi: ._.;

Lucy: ._.; "...Edgar? What did you do to that poor man?"

Poe: "Nothing...yet."

rowena: ^^;

Johannes: *walking stiffly into the shop, his face full of hand-marks* "Greetings, happy paranormal investigators! How may I help you?"

-atsushi and rowena explain-

Johannes: "I see...Well, there is one thing you must do before you head out."

atsushi: what's that?

Johannes: "You've heard the old stories how vampires can't see their reflection in the mirror, making them easy to sneak around right behind you..." *walks behind Atsushi and Rowena* "Worrisome, isn't it..."

atsushi: *SCREAMS*

Lucy: >_O *covering her ears*

sylvia: eep! *hides*

Johannes: "Unlike the vampire...you must not lose sight of yourself in the mirror!" *seizes Atsushi and Rowena, his hands cupping their foreheads*

atsushi:....right.

rowena: *nods*

Johannes: *smiles* "And to help you..." *pulls back his hands* "TAH-DAH!"

*he's put something on them...their foreheads say 'IHSUSTA' and 'ANEWOR'...except he put each one onto the wrong person...*

atsushi:....what the heck..

rowena: ._.;

Johannes: OwO; "...See, I once did this to some guy by shoving him into his cat's brain, but I had to draw onto his forehead his name backwards so he could--You know what, you had to be there."

Poe: Q_____Q "...A cat?"

atsushi:.....eh, i'll take it.

Lucy: ^^; "In any case, aside from mirrors and name recognition, we may need more help than just knowledge..."

Mikuni: "Hence why not to get in the way of the vampire experts...Although..."

atsushi: ??

Mikuni: "Hang on--let me whip my snake out..."

atsushi: NO NEED TO DO THAT HERE!

Lucy: "EEEK!" *covers her eyes*

Poe: "Pervert!" *slaps Mikuni*

Mikuni: *KOed*

*a snake pops up behind Rowena*

rowena: oh!

ranpo: dang poe! i didnt think you had it in ya. im impressed.

Poe: -^- "Hmph. I will not tolerate improper men...Now, could someone please get me ice for my wrist!" T~T

Snake: "...Hi."

atsushi: aaand it talks.

Lucy: ._.;

Snake: "Yes. Hi. I'm Jeje."

atsushi: nice to meet you.

Jeje: "Same. And the guy on the floor is my, um, handler."

-elsewhere-

miyuri: *sniff sniff* mmm smells yummy!

Chuuya: "I hope so--Sonia likes it."

miyuri: *nods* are we gonna take some of it up to her?

Chuuya: "I think so--it might help her appetite..."

-phone rings-

Chuuya: "??? Miyuri, keep an eye on it?"

miyuri: ok!

Chuuya: *answers* "Hello?"

teacher: yes, is this mr nakahara?

Chuuya: "Oh, good. You're calling to schedule?" *looking through a calendar...*

teacher: yes, it's this weekend.

Chuuya: "Okay, I'm available around 11 Saturday?"

teacher: excellent!

Chuuya: "I'll have to watch Sonia's sister that day, too."

teacher: well im sure we'd love to meet her!

Chuuya: "Thank you. We'll see you this Saturday."

miyuri: it looks ready, papa!

Chuuya: "?! Sorry, we're making dinner, I have to hang up. Goodbye!"

sonia:....*pokes her head out of her room*

Chuuya: *plating the food, then setting it onto a tray* "Miyuri, can you pour a glass of water?"

miyuri: ok!

Chuuya: *scoops out pasta onto a plate...*

sonia:....*gingerly walks over, wearing a blanket around her*

Chuuya: *smiles* "Hi, Sonia."

sonia: *nods and sits at the dinner table*

Chuuya: *smiles* "Want some cheese or tomato sauce?"

sonia: ...cheese....

Chuuya: "You got it..." *dusts a bit of cheese onto the pasta* "Dig in."

sonia: *nom*

Chuuya: "...Hey, want to do something this weekend?"

sonia: like what?

Chuuya: "Well...Would you like to visit your grandmother while I go to a parent-teacher conference?"

sonia:....i'll go to.

Chuuya: "You're okay to do so?"

sonia: i probably should...

Chuuya: "Okay...Miyuri, you can go with Grandma if you want."

miyuri: miyuri wants to see school!

Chuuya: ^^; "Okay, you can come, too--if you'll stay with Sonia."

miyuri: *nods*

Chuuya: "Great..." *sets plates for himself and Miyuri* "Let's eat..."

miyuri: *nom* mmmm! yummy!

Chuuya: "That's good--try some of the sauce."

miyuri: *slurp*

Chuuya: ^^ *slurp*

-elsewhere-

Kimizuki: "That was an informative lesson."

hyakuya: *reviewing notes* =3= ok, ''beast virus', a rare disease that mutates living things into vicious mutants. it's effects on humans remains as of yet, unknown.'

Kimizuki: "Yes, that is what it is..."

hyakuya: ...do you think that's what has your sister sick?

Kimizuki: "..." *sighs* "I don't know." *holds his head, stares at his notes*

hyakuya:....just a thought...

Kimizuki: "I know. It's been a thought I've had. But we don't know the effects the virus has on humans, now do we?"

hyakuya: well, you did say the doctors werent able to determine what's causing her sickness.

Kimizuki: "I know, okay? Could you... *sighs* Could we talk about something else?"

hyakuya: alright fine.....is that your natural hair? *smug grin*

Kimizuki: >_<# "Ha ha. Do you practice that scary face, or is natural?"

hyakuya: >XP

Kimizuki: "How immature..." *sticks out his tongue, pulls down his under-eyelids*

shinoa: ....when's the baby due?

hyakuya: AS IF!

Kimizuki: "Never!" *slams his book shut--onto his hand* "..." Q_____Q

shinoa: suuure. ^^

Mitsuba: "Is this a private conversation, or can anyone join in with critical remarks about how far behind Hyakuya is on her studies?"

hyakuya: what is this, pick on akane hour?

Yoichi: "I just wanted to fit in." Q_Q

hyakuya: *hug* i am so sorry i didnt mean to upset you you precious bean.

Yoichi: T~T "I'm sorry, too." *hug*

Kimizuki: "..." >_>;

Yoichi: "Let's have ice cream--with sprinkles and chocolate syrup!" TwT;

yumikage: *sips drink* look at them, enjoying their youths as best they can. brings back memories

Tsurugi: *whispers to Yumikage* "You're not young anymore, old man..."

yumikage: you wanna go? -_-#

-elsewhere-

marquis: *knocks* dumas? feeling better yet?

Dumas: *turned over in bed*

marquis: im making pudding~

Dumas: =~= "Pudding doesn't help..."

count: <so you miscalculated, so what?>

Dumas: <...I was nothing more than an 'acceptable loss,' 'collateral damage.' I lost 6 years of my life...and just killed 2 people.>

count: *chop* <oh stop your moping. beethoven didnt create his masterpieces by moping about his deafness. human beings are unpredictable, that's part of how we are.>

Dumas: "..." *chops her on the head* <Music is not killing people! What is your problem?!>

count: <im putting things into perspective! what's _your_ problem?>

Dumas: <I'm not interested in killing other people on this task--just the ones who ruined my life! Don't you get that?!!>

count: *sigh* <look, the world can be an unforgiving place sometimes. in some circumstances, you have to do some shitty things. 'sides, it's not like _you_ killed them directly, it was that crazy old hag that did it. if anything, blame her for fucking up and being an asshat>

Dumas: <...> *nods* <She will pay for this...>

-morning-

Katai: *yawns* =w= ("What good sleep...") *turns in bed*

blair: *snuggling him to her chest*

Katai: "?!" *opens his eyes* O\\\\\\\\\o; *small muffle*

blair: *yaaawn* morning~<3

Katai: .\\\\\\\. "...Hi? Um...What?"

blair: ~? want some waffles?

Katai: "...Yes. So much yes."

-elsewhere-

Kyoka: *staring at Mii*

mii: *snoozing* *cat yawn*

Kyoka: "...Maybe Mii is a vampire cat."

atsushi: hmm...nah.

Kyoka: "Just a thought." *pours tea for Atsushi* "We have the arcades to check."

atsushi: right.

-elsewhere-

liz: *checking grocery list*

Patty: *grabbing apples* "What else?"

liz: we need more milk.

Patty: " 'Kay! And chocolate syrup?"

liz: yep

Patty: "I think the kids deserve something..." *holds up cereal*

liz: *nods*

Patty: "Cool!" *dumps an entire shelf into the cart*

liz: ._.

Patty: "Now for the rest! Wes ask for anything?"

-elsewhere-

Yumi: *pours a glass of orange juice* "Here you go."

shiori: ^o^ thank you mama

Yumi: "You're welcome, sweetie. Kirika, donut?"

kirika: bacon please.

Yumi: "Okay." *serves some* "What are your plans today?"

kirika: *shrug* might just check out the arcade or somethin'

Yumi: "Okay--be safe out there, and call if you're going to be late for dinner."

kirika: i got'cha.

Yumi: *nods* "Well, Liz and Patty are still out. Have you seen Kid?"

kirika: out back.

Kid: *watering flowers in the backyard* "Hey, there, little ones. Ready for the new day?"

-elsewhere-

Cervantes: =w= *swaying with glee...*

benedetto: ???? <is he ok?>

Dumas: =_= <He probably did something stupid--ignore him...> *shoves a waffle into his mouth--then guzzles pancake syrup straight from the bottle*

benedetto: ._.

Cervantes: <The world is such a shinier color! If I could make a crayon of it, I would name it...'Love'!>

benedetto: ._.;;;;

*Dumas is giving off a dark aura while Cervantes gives off a light aura...They are stuck in their moods*

count: *DOUBLE SLAP* <PAY ATTENTION YOU FOOLS!>

Dumas: "OW!" <WHAT THE FUCK?!>

Cervantes: *shakes his head* <Sorry--what did I miss? Lunch?>

count: <you three are here for a reason, are you not?>

Cervantes: <Right! To help our friend get vengeance on his enemies--and avoid the plant woman from hurting us! And maybe having coffee with the pretty police officer...>

Dumas: =_= *grumbles* <Fine. My next disguise will be the smelly sad man. Happy, you recalcitrant jackass. Ugh. I'll go review Danglars's stock prices falling and see him. Boy, put on the dress.>

benedetto: =3= <i have a name you know.>

Dumas: <...'Andrea.'>

benedetto: =_=#

-elsewhere-

edouard: <valentine?>

Valentine: *lying in bed* "..."

edouard: <i snuck a muffin up for you.>

Valentine: "..." <Thanks. Leave it on the nightstand, please.>

edouard:....

-elsewhere-

Kyoka: "Thank you for coming with us, Kenji."

kenji: anytime. ^^

Lucy: *checking the map on her phone* "Chinom is around the corner..."

atsushi: *looks*

*the arcade looks spooky--appropriate for Death City, with some coffins along the exterior and bats on the facade*

sylvia: ....

Lucy: -_-; "Gee, this totally doesn't look like a vampire den at all..."

kenji: it looks nice. ^^

Lucy: "?!!"

atsushi: *steps forward*

*inside are a few teenagers playing games*

Ranpo: "Hmm...Pale people inside who look like they've never seen the outside...Eyes tired as if they are not used to sunlight and daytime hours...I can't tell whether they are gamers or vampires...Oh well!" *pulls out a pouch of quarters* "I'm hitting up Donkey Kong..."

sylvia: .~.

Kyoka: "How shall we speak to the manager? Explain our interest, or pass ourselves as customers?"

atsushi: maybe just look around for now.

Kyoka: *nods...looks at the black lights inside* "Hmm...With the right posters, this would not be bad for the apartment."

Gamer: *playing Tetris...looks back at them...*

kenji: *humming*

Lucy: "Well, if we're playing, who's up for air hockey?"

???: *whispering to Kenji* "Hey. Hey, you, buddy?"

kenji: ??

*someone in baggy clothes and messy hair smiles at Kenji*

???: "You're here 'cause you like games, right?"

kenji: i guess so.

???: "You ever play virtual reality games? They're the latest thing we got in stock."

kenji: oooh, i've heard about those!

???: "They're really neat! I'm testing out the newest one from the manufacturer--real big city operation, first of its kind, hardly anyone has tried it. You should take a crack at it..."

kenji: how much?

???: "For you? If you help me test it out, I'll make it free..."

kenji: wow golly! thanks!

???: *smiles, showing shiny teeth* "No, thank you..." *leads Kenji to the storeroom...*

sylvia: *looking around, nervous*

Kyoka: "Want to try skeeball?"

sylvia: o-ok...

*there's a small child near them, clubbing the whack-a-mole really hard with the mallet while cackling*

sylvia: .~.;;;;;;

*in the food court, someone has dumped too much ketchup onto their fries, as they dig in voraciously*

*someone in a hoodie plays Space Invaders near the air hockey table*

Lucy: "KAH!" *knocks the puck*

Hoodie: =_= ("Too loud...")

atsushi: *bumps into someone* oh, so sorry-

???: whatever...

Ranpo: "Hey! This thing is busted!" *slams a fist against the side of the cabinet*

Employee: ^^; "Sir, please do not hit the machine..."

kenji: ^3^~♫

Manager: "Now, just have a seat...I'm going to secure you into the chair..." *lowers the VR headset onto Kenji*

kenji: oooh, neato.

Manager: *secures straps on Kenji's wrists and ankles* "This will keep you in place when you use the foot and hand controls on your vehicle..." *chuckling to themselves as they look at Kenji's neck...*

kenji: feels kinda tight.

Manager: "It's for your safety...I'm going to start the game..."

kenji: ok!

*the VR headset blinks on, showing a road passing through a peaceful field*

kenji: ooooh.

Manager: "Lightly tap your left foot for gas, and use your hands to turn the wheel..."

kenji: ok, like this?

*the vehicle starts moving along the road*

Manager: "There! What a pro..." *licks their lips, looking at Kenji's neck* ("Scrawny, but that neck looks to be full of it...") "You must play a lot of these games back home..."

kenji: not often.

Manager: *leans in* "I wouldn't know it from seeing you in action..."

*in the game, a cow blocks the vehicle*

kenji: *hits the breaks*

Manager: "?! What?"

VR Cow: O_O "...Moo..." *leans down its head to Kenji, as if it wanted to be petted*

kenji: there was a cow! i have to let them pass through...aww, nice cow! *pet pet*

*Kenji's "petting" breaks the restraint--and punched the Manager through the wall*

kenji: ^^

Manager: *tossed into the arcade, crashing atop the air hockey table*

sylvia: EEP! >~<

Lucy: "?!!! You jerk! You owe me a quarter!" *tosses the puck at the Manager's head*

Employee: D:< "Oh, come on!"

atsushi: ?!

*the Manager has some...sharp teeth*

atsushi: !!!!! um....guys?

Lucy: O_____O;; "Now, let's not jump to conclusions...Maybe they're just a weapon! Plenty of weapons have sharp...teeth..."

Customer: "...Well, cover's blown..." *grabs Atsushi by the shoulder--and bites into his neck*

atsushi: *yells out in pain*

Lucy: "Atsushi!" *picks up billiard stick, breaks it into the Customer's face*

atsushi: t-thanks. *tiger arms*

Customer: "GAH! FUCK!" *crashes into Space Invaders, pulling the plug on it*

Hoodie: "... ... ..." *sighs*

Employee: "You idiots! I'll show you how it's done--" *grabs Ranpo by the sleeve* "Come here, you!"

Ranpo: "??!" *smashes his roll of quarters into the Employee's eye*

Employee: "GAH!"

*vampires chase Sylvia*

???: *pulls out a pistol and shoots the vampires point blank*

sylvia: *ducks* *scream*

Ranpo: "...Nice aim!"

???: thanks.

Kyoka: *using Demon Snow, it's light scaring away vampires*

Ranpo: "And now for you!" *grabs Hoodie* "I've seen you here, and I know who you are!"

Hoodie: "...I just wanted some time away. 'Go out and have fun,' she said...I'm tired now..." *walks up to a vampire*

Ranpo: *smirks*

Vampire: *yells in Hoodie's face*

Hoodie: "..." *a tonfa pops out of their sleeve*

Vampire: "?!"

*POW*

Asher: =_= "I should've stayed home..."

Lucy: O_O; "...Vampires have tonfa?"

Ranpo: "They're a weapon, stupid."

Lucy: *GLARE*

atsushi: actually, i think that person goes to our school.

Asher: "First plant monsters, now vampires...I'm going to lie down in the back for a bit..."

kenji: hehe ^^

Asher: "...Weird." *sits in the manager's chair...* "Zzz..."

atsushi: is that all of them?

Manager: *sits up* "YOU STUPID LITTLE MEAT-BAGS! JUST DIE AND LET US FEAST ON YOUR BLOOD! I--"

sylvia: *throws something at them*

Manager: *KO'ed by a Rubix cube from the prize booth*

Kyoka: "Good work, Sylvia."

sylvia: t-thank you...

Employee: O_X; *tries to sneak out the front door--*

-BANG-

Employee: *SCREAMS, falls forward* "I-I'm sorry! Don't kill me!"

???: alright. i'll give you till tonight to leave this place.

Ranpo: "Before we even find out who they were working for? No way this operation was just these idiots..."

Employee: "I'll leave! I'll leave!"

???: good.

Lucy: *looks at the company name* "Chinom..." *wipes something off the counter--revealing "CHINOMIYAKO"* "???"

???: hmm...

Kyoka: "??? 'Chi No Miyako'? 'Blood City'?"

Ranpo: "..." ._____. "Oh."

Lucy: *smirks* "Now who's the idiot?"

Ranpo: >3< "I can't be expected to catch every bit of writing!"

???: alright, start checking around. there should be a passageway.

Lucy: *looks under the bar at the food court*

atsushi: wait, just who are you?

???: call me doctor belmont.

Ranpo: "..."

Lucy: *opens her mouth--then shuts it* "Too easy."

kenji: *slips the VR headset off* what i miss?

Kyoka: "They were all vampires."

Asher: *yawns* =_= "Too loud..."

kenji: oh.

Ranpo: "So, Doctor, you hunt vampires?" *checking behind cabinets*

belmont: sometimes. i'm more of a hunter for hire. a mercenary if you will.

Ranpo: "We've seen a few of those. We're the Armed Detective Agency of Death City."

belmont: ah, so i've figured, given the samurai ghost and were-tiger.

atsushi: ^^;

Demon Snow: *stare*

Ranpo: "Our reputation precedes us..." *pushes one more cabinet*

kenji: *opens a door that reads 'employee's only*

*stairs lead downward, with candles dotting the sides of the stairway*

belmont: huh, hidden in plain sight.

atsushi: the candles seem a bit cliche.

Asher: "Personally, I was hoping for a TRON reference."

Ranpo: "Well, after you, Doc."

-elsewhere-

Jordan: "I'll take the burger!"

Daisy: "Bloody mary."

louisa: a latte please.

Zuno: "Is the breakfast menu done?"

Assi: "Thanks for treating us, sir!"

Fitzgerald: "...I'm not paying for this."

louisa: ._.

Daisy: "Sir..."

Fitzgerald: "..." *sighs* "I'll pay for nachos--but that's it."

mary: *feeding toby under the table*

Toby: =w= *nom*

Waiter: ._.; <Is that fox a service animal?>

louisa: ...<yes?>

Waiter: <Okay...> ^^; <Not from around here?>

-elsewhere-

Iida: *jogging...then stops* "..." *turns quickly*

*no one is there*

Iida: "..."

mashirao: oh, iida, whats up?

Iida: "?! Oh...You startled me...I thought someone was nearby..."

mashirao: sorry. ^^;

Iida: *smiles* "Not at all. How is your day going?"

mashirao: just getting some groceries.

Iida: "Ah--hope it went well. And that you're dining well ahead of our training camp!"

???: BOO!

Iida: "!!!!" *leaps up*

hagakure: gotcha~

Iida: "Wh-What?! Hagakure?"

hagakure: hiya~ just me.

Iida: "I see your skill at staying hidden is only improving..."

hagakure: ^^

Iida: "Were you also out with Ojiro?"

hagakure: yep!

Iida: "..." *smiles* "Very good..." *looks behind them* "..."

hagakure:...what's up?

Iida: "Sorry...I keep having the sense someone is following me...And doing a poor job of it."

*some muttering is heard...*

hagakure: *looks*

Izuku: *hiding behind a corner* O_O;

hagakure: hey izuku!

Iida: -_-;

Izuku: ^^; "Hi...How is everyone?"

-elsewhere-

aya: booooored.

Kunikida: "I know a fun activity..."

aya: *looks up*

Kunikida: *drops a stack of papers in front of her* "Alphabetize and file." *goes back to typing*

Fukuzawa: *walking by*

aya: hey mr fukuzawa?

Fukuzawa: "Hmm?"

aya: do they have secretary uniforms in a size small?

Fukuzawa: "Yes--we try to keep them for all potential employees of all body types."

aya: do they come in like, kid sizes?

Fukuzawa: "Likely...I assume you want one?"

aya: well if im being expected to do paperwork, may as well fit in, eh? if i cant be on field, then im gonna make some stinkin' income.

Kunikida: "?! Now wait a second--"

Fukuzawa: "Naomi, could you show our newest secretary to her uniform?"

naomi: um....sure. ^^;

Kunikida: "B-But, sir--"

Fukuzawa: "??? Is it not one of our policies that our employees adhere to a dress code? A rule you wrote?"

Kunikida: "..." *sighs* "Yes, sir..."

aya: 737;

Tanizaki: ^^; ("Small miracles...Glad I'm not wearing one of those...again.") >_>;

-elsewhere-

Mori: "Please, Elise! Just try it on just once!"

elise: would you give it a rest already? -3- miura, how about you do it?

miura: i'll have to have a shrinking protocol installed first.

Mori: ._.; "You...You can do that?"

miura: not right now. i'll consider bringing it up with kajii at my next tuning-up.

Mori: "...Call him. Immediately. Now."

miura: *chop*

Mori: >3<

miura: behave yourself. your reputation is bad enough as it is.

Mori: "I was pardoned..."

miura: i meant amongst members of the mafia.

Mori: "...That reminds me. I want to have increased security."

miura: ..very well...

Mori: "Good. And I will be reviewing each member of security thoroughly..."

-elsewhere-

Akutagawa: =~= "This attire is...not my usual."

naoya: better than nothing, right?

Akutagawa: *grumbles* "Some of us lack a wide range of stylistic options..."

naoya: aw c'mon, the rock look is totally slick on you! ^^

Akutagawa: *sighs, looking at his shirt*

-seems to be a grey shirt with a black leather jacket and pants-

Akutagawa: "..." *knocks one of his boots against the wall* "...At least these look durable..."

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "Want to help me fold laundry?"

miyuri: ok!

sonia: *nods*

Chuuya: "Okay. Miyuri, you can start with towels--fold them twice."

miyuri: ^^

Chuuya: "And Sonia, you can fold shirts..."

sonia: right.

Chuuya: *pulls out the laundry storage bins* "And I'll put some socks together..."

-elsewhere-

Lucy: =_= "Is this going to be a trend that our missions take us into dark underground locations against superpowered people?"

atsushi: at this point, im willing to put it on good authority.

Lucy: "...How is the bite healing?"

atsushi: getting better.

Lucy: "..." *holds his hand*

Ranpo: *whispers* "So, Doc, how do you take out vampires?"

belmont: your best bet is to aim for the heart or head. usually a wood stake or bullet infused with holy water does the trick on the weaker ones.

Kyoka: "Good for anyone with such materials..." *holds up a broken billiard stick*

Kyoka: "..." *rests a hand on Sylvia's shoulder*

belmont: sunlight also is shown to have an adverse effect on most vampires, depending on how strong they are, it's either an instant death or a slow and painful one.

Ranpo: "Hmm...We're a bit too low underground for that..."

belmont: then i suggest taking one of these. *hands him a spare pistol* hope you have good aim.

Ranpo: "..." *holds it*

Lucy: "If this gets too rough, I'm pulling us to Anne's room..."

kenji: *humming*

*some creaks...*

sylvia: EEK! >~<

Ranpo: "Just creaky steps--nothing to worry about--" *shines the candle, revealing multiple coffins littered throughout the cavernous room*

atsushi: ._.;;;

Lucy: O_O;

Kyoka: "..."

Ranpo: "...Yeah, I don't think we have enough for all of these, so let's quietly leave..."

-something lunges at them-

Lucy: "EEEK!"

Ranpo: "?!" *ducking, trying to get away*

Kyoka: "Don't get separated." *stabbing with the billiard stick*

kenji: huh?

*A vampire lunges at Kenji...They look emaciated...*

kenji: hello! ^^

Vampire: *SHRIEKS, grabbing Kenji by the arm, swinging him towards the wall--*

kenji: woah!

Vampire: *slams Kenji into the wall*

kenji: GRK-

atsushi: *swings tiger arm*

Vampire: *tries to dodge--but gets knocked down the stairs*

*the Vampire hits a coffin, knocking out...3 tinier vampires*

atsushi: any plans?

Kyoka: "Stab the heart."

Asher: =_= *still in the back* "Um..."

atsushi: *PUNCH*

Tiny Vampire 1: *punched through the heart*

-elsewhere-

Twice: "I keep digging, and nothing's happening!"

Muscular: "Because you keep shoveling into my hole!"

Twice: "Okay, I'll dig up, then!"

banshee: *checking the map*

Dabi: "Think about what you need down here to put this much dirt over it..." *wipes his brow*

-thunk-

Dabi: "??? Who went 'thunk'?"

himiko: i found something!

Dabi: "??? Is it a case?" *climbs up out of his tunnel*

himiko: looks like it!

Dabi: "Okay. Kirby hid that thing here because it was developed for construction--until it overpowered and knocked down Orion into a ghost town. So whatever you do, don't put it on, and don't use it--"

himiko: *wearing it and punches a rock, which sends her back flying* WAH!

Dabi: "?!" =_=

Twice: "Wow...She went 30 feet! NO, MORE LIKE 10 YARDS!"

banshee: are you alright?

himiko: @w@ awawawawa

Muscular: "Tiny glove, though..." *flexes his fist* "Still...I'd live to test out against it..." *sadistic grin*

-elsewhere-

Tanizaki: "--then put the reimbursement forms in the 'Reimbursement' box for the President's review..." *files some forms into the box*

aya: hmm...

Tanizaki: "It's not the most interesting work, but after the kind of things we've faced, it's nice to do something that is a little less fatal...Oh, that reminds me..." *fills out a form* "You have to fill out a form every time you are treated by Dr. Yosano."

aya: really?

Tanizaki: "Really, so that the reports, um...align with what Dr. Yosano reports happened...And to keep an eye on any weird side-effects..." >_>;

aya: ._.;

-elsewhere-

Lord Wilmore: <Don't fall behind, Andrea...>

andrea: *grunt*

???: <Lord Wilmore, wait!> *huffing and puffing is heard*

Lord Wilmore: "..." *small smile* <At least one good thing is going well...> *turns, smiles widely* <Monsieur Danglars! Good day!>

Danglars: *pushes Andrea out of the way*

*some bystanders look at Danglars, whispering about him...*

andrea: <ah!>

Lord Wilmore: <?!> *frowns* <Sir, I ask you not to push my child out of the way-->

Danglars: *grabs Lord Wilmore by his coat* <Don't tell me what to do to your brat, you bastard! I'm losing a fortune because of you!> *shakes him*

Lord Wilmore: *his eyes go dark* <Unhand me this instant, you ignorant swine!> *grabs his wrists, squeezing*

Danglars: <AH!> *screams, his wrists getting crushed*

eugenie: <papa!>

Lord Wilmore: *stops...lets go, letting Danglars fall onto him, as he supports him* *smiles* <Get ahold of yourself, old man...Now...> *pretends to hold him close in friendship--but is squeezing his shoulder rather hard* <What are you and your delightful family doing this fine day...?> *looks to Mrs. Danglars*

Danglars: Q~Q *squeaks*

hermine: <we were....getting crepes.>

eugenie: <hi andrea!>

andrea: *holding onto 'her' head*

Lord Wilmore: *smiles at Hermine* <I'm afraid Andrea had a nasty stumble--could you keep an eye on her while your husband and I chat about our continuing business?>

hermine: <r-right....come along girls...>

andrea:......

Danglars: *whispers* <That really hurt! Are you trying to kill me physically too now?!>

Lord Wilmore: <??? What's wrong?>

Danglars: <I've taken a beating in my stocks! Fallacious articles lying about my ships! Investors pulling out! But you--you're not suffering like me, you rich, sniveling little shit! Why are you ahead? Why are you always-->

{Dumas: *looking at his compass* <See? If we follow this path, we'll be home before we know it, sir!>}

{leclare: <excellent, alex. i can always count on you.> *smiles*>}

{Danglars: <B-But sir! I had that same idea yesterday--and you told me it was ridiculous!>}

{leclare: <you didnt account for a change in weather.>}

{Danglars: <WHO CAN PREDICT THE WEATHER?!>}

{Dumas: <Hey, it's alright--some of us aren't meant to be meteorologists...>}

{Danglars: <WHAT DO SPACEMEN HAVE TO DO WITH THIS?!>}

{Dumas: "... ..." <Wow. That's just sad...> *turns back to Leclare* <Sir, I think that bottle of Amontillado should've chilled by now--ready to taste it?>}

{leclare: <why yes, morrel, keep an eye on things up here.>}

{morrel: <yes sir.>}

{Danglars: *STARING DAGGERS AS DUMAS AND LECLARE WALK AWAY* <That stupid, stupid, ugly piece of putrid shit! Always getting every pretty face at every port! Getting all the praise for my hard work! He can't even tell right from left--is he stupid or something?!>}

Danglars: *has gotten pale* O_O

Lord Wilmore: "..." *blinks* <My good sir...You look like you've seen a ghost...>

Danglars: ("...No...No way...Just a trick of my mind...") *forced smile* <N-No...I just...came here to ask for some advancement on my investment in your company...A few thousand dollars...>

Lord Wilmore: "???" <I could return on your investment, but that's for shareholders--so, rather illegal-->

Danglars: <DO I LOOK LIKE A MAN WHO IS IMPEDED BY LAWS?!>

Lord Wilmore: "..." *smiles* <Do tell...>

Danglars: <Hmph! I once made sure a man was sent to prison--so I could be the new golden child at our old shipping company! And I did it all with the man who wanted to fuck his fiancee!>

Lord Wilmore: *forced smile* "..." ("HE'S SERIOUSLY ADMITTING TO CRIMES IN PUBLIC--AND HE BRINGS UP MERCEDES NOW?! I'M GOING TO RIP HIS THROAT OUT--")

Bystanders: *walking by...*

Lord Wilmore: "..." *calms himself* *smiles, walking him back to Hermine and the children* <Of course...Now, I admire a man who is willing to do _anything_...but I will not break the law on this. Instead, I'll give you a loan--at a low interest rate, my friend...>

Danglars: *tears of joy* TwT

eugenie: <papa? are you ok?>

Danglars: *picks up Eugenie, tossing her into the air with glee* <We're saved!>

eugenie: *laughs* ^u^

hermine: ....

Lord Wilmore: *writes out the check* <Here you are, sir-->

Danglars: *hands Eugenie back to Hermine, snatches the check--* <Thank you, my lord!> *bows--then gives a wet kiss to Hermine's cheek* <I'll be home later!> *skips away with glee--almost running into Andrea again*

hermine: <ah->

Lord Wilmore: ^^; <He is rather spirited, isn't he?>

hermine: <....i suppose...>

Lord Wilmore: <...> *holds out an envelope with her name on it*

hermine: ??

Lord Wilmore: <Mrs. Danglars...Get out.>

hermine: ?!

Lord Wilmore: <Think. You know he is in trouble, right?>

hermine:....

Lord Wilmore: <These tickets are for you and Eugenie. They'll take you wherever you want to go. But please...don't get hurt in all of this. You can't afford to be collateral damage when he screws up.>

hermine: .......

-elsewhere-

peppino: *looks around*

*someone walks by...seems to be the person she seeks...*

peppino: <hello~>

Beauchamp: "???" *turns* <...Hi?>

peppino: *hands him something* ^w^

Beauchamp: <?!! Hey, I already got in a lot of trouble-->

peppino: <it's just a little audio recording i kept~ and you're probably scared about going to prison again, so maybe you could help me put someone else behind bars? that way, mr vampa and i can leave without problems.> ^^

Beauchamp: <...Okay...Who's Vampa?>

peppino: <...someone important.>

Beauchamp: <'Kay, nothing cryptic there...And if I throw this away?>

peppino: <at least give it a listen first.>

Beauchamp: <...If this audio recording blows up on me, I'm going to be very cross.>

peppino: =3= <it woooont.>

Beauchamp: <...Very well. And after I listen to it, how do I contact you if you _leave_?>

peppino: <you wont have to worry about me after you hear it...>

Beauchamp: O_O; <Oh, God, this is some suicide cult or 'The Ring,' isn't it?>

peppino: *chop* <you're too paranoid!>

Beauchamp: T~T <Okay, okay, fine--I'll look into it...>

-elsewhere-

Yohei: *sets up a mini basketball hoop* "Okay, kids..." *hands a tiny basketball*

toru: ba!

Yohei: "Yep--ball. Care to drop it into the basket?"

toru: ...*drops it*

Yohei: "Good work, big man!" *holds up his hand at Toru's level for a high-five*

toru: ^o^

Yohei: "Hee hee..." *bounces the ball*

-elsewhere-

Vampire: "STOP! MAKE IT STOP!"

atsushi: *WHACK*

Vampire 2: "AAH! MY FACE!"

Vampire 3: *trying to sneak away...*

kenji: *TOSS*

Vampire 3: "GAK!"

Kyoka: *picks up the head of one vampire* "I think this one is ready to talk..."

Vampire Head: Q____Q;

sylvia: *faints*

Lucy: *catches Sylvia*

Asher: *still clubbing a vampire...glances* "...Is that a head? Neat."

Vampire Head: T~T "Just kill me...What do you want?!"

belmont: first off, are you working for anyone?

Vampire Head: "I'm now missing the neck down--do I look like I'm doing this on my own?! Of course I work for someone!"

belmont: who is it?

Vampire Head: "...The Progenitors."

atsushi: progenitors?

Vampire Head: "Really powerful vampires who sire powerful vampires, and so on..."

belmont: why would they have business in death city?

Vampire Head: "..." *small laugh* "You know, for the 'City of Second Chances,' a lot of people sure go missing here, don't they?"

belmont:....

Ranpo: "And when they go missing, you all feed off them..."

atsushi:....

Lucy: "Who knows how many 'missing people reports' may lead right here..."

-elsewhere-

Kimizuki: *cooking lunch* "...Quiet around here..."

mitsuba: maybe everyone's out on missions?

Kimizuki: "...Likely...I think it would be worth asking..."

mitsuba: *looks out into the hall*

*looks like some equipment has been tossed into the hallway*

mitsuba: ugh, so sloppy. *picking it up*

Kimizuki: *not even looking back* "I wouldn't do that--she's busy tinkering again..."

mitsuba: ??

*a giant console is tossed out of the garage, almost hitting Mitsuba's foot*

mitsuba: *jumps back* HEY!

Tinker: *pops her head out, still wearing her mask* "Hmm? Oh, sorry! Could you scoot back a bit...?"

mitsuba: ._.

-elsewhere-

rowena:...edgar? are you sure you're alright?

Poe: =_=# "I'm fine..." *sips long on tea...*

rowena:....is this about mr mikuni?

Poe: >_<# "Who? You mean that lanky cowboy...?"

rowena: why does he upset you so much?

Poe: "I just think someone who is that lackadaisical requires extra vigilance, especially when fooling around with the occult..."

rowena: perhaps, but i think he does mean well. he did help save me from that man...

Poe: =^= "Just be careful around him--such men can be troublesome."

rowena: ^^; *hug* you worry a lot, you know?

Poe: "..." T~T "I don't want you hurt..."

-elsewhere-

Johannes: "Did I get them all?" *he's bandaging his bruises*

metsu: i believe so.

Jeje: "Was it really okay to let non-vampires and non-Eves to pursue those kind?"

Mikuni: *twirling a keychain on his finger* "Why not? Consider it a trial run..."

metsu:...you realize if they die, their blood is on your hands.

Mikuni: *smirks* "Do you honestly think I'd send sheep to the slaughter without considering whether a shepherd joined them? Or a dog to keep them on their path?"

metsu: ....

Mikuni: "Until then, we keep up our work--starting with inventorying the remaining goods--" *spots the dolls for sale* "...And returning the heads to the missing ones."

Johannes: *innocent whistling*

-elsewhere-

Cervantes: <?! What happened to you two?!> *looks at Dumas* <Why are you...smiling?>

benedetto:...*shrugs*

Dumas: *deep inhale* <I feel accomplished...Maybe things will go better...>

-elsewhere-

Daisy: =_= "We're lost, and only one of us knows the language..."

mary: *looking around*

Jordan: *looks at a sign* " 'Circus Maximus'...Sounds fun!"

louisa: *checking the travel guide*

Fitzgerald: *holding his own umbrella* "It's where chariot races were held, before you start thinking of elephants and clowns..."

Jordan: "I-I wasn't..." >_>;;;

mary: ooooh.

Fitzgerald: "There's always the Coliseum for fights to the death and lions eating prisoners..." *sighs* "The olden times..." *looks wistfully*

louisa:...... riiiiight.... >->;;

Assi: "Well, there are fountains, the thermal baths, the Sistine Chapel..."

mary: *snapping pics*

Daisy: "Sending those to Bram?"

mary: yep!

Jordan: "Too bad he couldn't come along..."

-elsewhere-

atsushi: *outside, nervous*

Lucy: "...Hey."

atsushi: hey...

Lucy: "How are you holding up?" *puts a hand on his shoulder*

atsushi:...ok i guess. a bit shaken though…

Lucy: "Y-Yeah...If you didn't have your regeneration..." *shivers*

atsushi:...*hugs*

Lucy: *holds onto him, trying to steady herself* "That was goshdarn intense!"

kenji: yeah, let's get some food. we need to regain our energy.

Asher: =_= ("...Cassidy is going to kill me for this...")

Kyoka: "Good. Ranpo, how many quarters do you have left?"

Ranpo: >3< *holds them to himself*

belmont: *hands atsushi a card; a business card* just something to keep in touch.

Lucy: "???"

-elsewhere-

banshee: *calling on her phone*

Kurogiri: *answering* "Hello."

banshee: we found it.

Kurogiri: "Excellent. Ready for your return?"

banshee: yes.

*Warp Gates open up*

banshee: let's go.

Dabi: "Don't fire it, ever again."

Twice: "Do a dive into it, Muscular--it's fun! WHEE!" *dives in--and slams into a bar stool* "...Ow."

himiko: ^^;

Kurogiri: "Welcome back. How did the first mission for our newest recruit go?"

Muscular: "..." *crosses his arms, grunts*

banshee: it was successful, and we did find this. *hands him the gauntlet*

Kurogiri: "So, this was what was hidden in Orion. How powerful is it?"

himiko: very!

Dabi: =_=; "Reinforce it."

Kurogiri: "I already have storage ready..." *warps it* "But someone needs to deal with our prisoner."

-elsewhere-

Amaimon: "??? Teacher-Niece? Looks like someone is here for you."

stocking: hm?

Kid: *waves*

stocking: kid! *hugs* what a surprise!

students: awww!

girl: get a room!

Kid: ^^; "Hi! I thought I would stop by. I'm not interrupting, am I?"

stocking: we were just about to start class, actually.

Kid: "Then I won't interrupt--see you after?"

stocking: meet up for dinner?

Kid: *nods* "It's a date."

stocking: see you then~ *blows a kiss*

Kid: *blushes, waves*

stocking: ^///^ *ahem* alright, now where were we...

sonia: *stares out into the backyard*

Chuuya: *hammering*

sonia:...papa?

Chuuya: "Hmm? Yes, Sonia?"

sonia: can we put hydrangeas in the garden?

Chuuya: "Hmm...I don't see why not."

sonia: thanks. i think mommy liked them.

Chuuya: "..." *sighs* "Yes. She did. Aunt Ichiyo had said she mentioned them..."

sonia:...im a bit nervous for tomorrow.

Chuuya: *nods* "I know. It can be anxious...The important thing is to face that fear. After all, no one at your school is more important than anyone else."

sonia:...*nod*

Chuuya: "Would you feel better if I spoke to your teacher about anything?"

sonia:...i dont know.

Chuuya: "...Maybe you could show Miyuri some of your drawings? The hallway had really nice ones."

sonia: i'd like that.

Chuuya: *smiles* "You're a good sister."

-elsewhere-

Danglars: *counting his money* "Hee hee..."

hermine:...*sneaking downstairs*

Danglars: *not noticing, giggling like a madman*

hermine:....*steps outside to the car, packing luggage*

Lucian: *whispering* <How much more?>

hermine: <this should be the last of it...im scared, lucian. where do we go from here?>

Lucian: "..." *sighs, holds her hands* <Take the ticket--and get somewhere. Are there any relatives or friends you could visit?>

hermine: ...<i dont really speak with my parents anymore.>

Lucian: *nods* <...I know someone.>

hermine: ??

Lucian: *hands her a business card* <If you give my name, I know he will keep you safe. He is very good.>

hermine: ....<thank you, so much. you're a really good person.>

Lucian: *shakes his head* <No, I'm not. I just can't stand to see this happening to you two...> *looks at Eugenie, smiles* <You'll be a good girl until we see each other again?>

eugenie: *she nods* *hugs* <i'll miss you, uncle lucy>

Lucian: T~T *hug* <So will I...>

-elsewhere-

dulcenia: *examining case files*

Beauchamp: *throws open the door, panting*

dulcenia: ?! <what the->

Beauchamp: <I am here...> *exhales, pants* <Jeez, that was a long run...I-I am here with evidence that is going to shock you!>

dulcenia: <what the blazes are you talking about?>

Beauchamp: <Arson!>

dulcenia: ?!

Beauchamp: <Multiple fires! The criminals are on this tape planning it!>

dulcenia: ??

Beauchamp: *presses play on his phone*

Person 1: <--and now that their check cleared, you know what to do.>

dulcenia: *listening*

Person 2: <Hang on--I'm still confused. When someone 'burns for the insurance money,' since when does the _insurance company_ collect?>

Person 1: <I insure for _higher_ than the value of their property. _They_ pay me more.>

dulcenia: !!! *in spanish* <son of a bitch..>

Beuchamp: <You recognize that voice? Can you check it?>

dulcenia: <provided this isnt some hoax. but yes, we'll take it to Ali to scan it.>

Beauchamp: *nods* <I can describe the woman who gave me the audio...>

-elsewhere-

Kunikida: "Where are they..."

-text message from ranpo-

Kunikida: *reads*

ranpo: [getting food @Ihop. pancakes r hella, will report l8er]

Kunikida: ._. "..." -_-; [we were worried]

ranpo: [had a lil trouble, but we cool]

Kunikida: [very well. submit your report upon your return]

-elsewhere-

???: *holding up a photo of 'Andrea'* <Found him. And the weirdos who took him.>

-inside-

marquis: <ok, so danglars is mostly taken care of, now we have to deal with mondego, right?>

Dumas: *sets his disguises onto mannequins...* <Yes...That's going to take more work...> *picks up a knife, checking its sharpness*

Cervantes: ^w^; <I may have an idea...I met someone who may help~>

benedetto: ??

Dumas: <Who?>

Cervantes: <That angelic police officer! I spoke with her-->

Dumas: <?!!!! WHAT.>

marquis: <what all did you tell her?>

Cervantes: <How we should share a Three Musketeers bar-->

-something is thrown into the window-

Dumas: <?!>

Cervantes: O_O;;;

marquis: !!! *grabs onto benedetto*

Dumas: <Shit!> *smashes the lamp next to him--*

-from outside-

*BOOM*

???: <...> *smiles*

marquis: *lands in the bushes with benedetto* <are you alright?!>

benedetto: !!!!

???: <See? I knew you could survive that, kiddo.>

marquis: ?? <who-?>

???: *pushes Marquis away, grabs Benedetto by the arm* <Don't you have anything to say to me?>

benedetto: <ow! that hurts, uncle bert!>

Bertuccio: <Not as much as this will hurt you...> *pulls back his hand--*

marquis: *tackles bertuccio*

Bertuccio: <?!> *lets go of Benedetto* <Get off me, you bitch!>

marquis: <leave him alone! he doesnt deserve to be abused like that! no one does!>

Bertuccio: <That kid is mine! I made him who he is--a thief who can escape anything, steal from anyone--and has no time for flighty, ugly, weak-ass losers like you!> *swings his fist at Marquis*

marquis: AH! <how could you be so cruel to your own family?!>

Bertuccio: <Ha! Buddy, if you saw that boy's family, I did him a favor!> *kicks at Marquis*

marquis: ??

benedetto: <what do you mean?>

Bertuccio: <...Oh, so now I'm supposed to tell the runaway his origin story? How I found some infant in some treasure box--and the 'treasure' was this little urchin?!>

benedetto: ?!?!

Bertuccio: <So, Bene, which did you want: buried alive to die, or fight to live?>

marquis: ?!?!?!

Bertuccio: <I stabbed that man who was burying you in that garden--and I made sure you didn't go back before some other inhuman monster did worse.>

marquis: <what man?>

Bertuccio: <That judge I always see putting thieves like me behind bars--Villefort.>

marquis: !!!!!!!!

Bertuccio: <I knew I should've blackmailed that judge--but he'd probably kill me like he tried to do to his own son-->

benedetto: .....<what?>

Bertuccio: <??? 'What' what? He tried to bury you alive! Your dad didn't want you except dead! Who knows what mom wanted, burying you in some garden-->

marquis: *PUNCHES BERTUCCIO IN THE STOMACH*

Bertuccio: Q_____Q *collapses*

marquis: *glares at him*

*a groan is heard behind Marquis*

marquis: !! *looks*

Cervantes: *crawling out from wreckage--as Dumas holds up the debris*

Dumas: <Hurry...>

marquis: <are you two alright?!>

Cervantes: <I think so-->

Dumas: <I JUST FINISHED SETTING UP MY DISGUISES! I BARELY HAD ENOUGH DARKNESS TO HOLD THIS! WHAT THE HELL?!>

marquis:.....<this man. have him arrested....>

Dumas: *tosses the debris* <...How are we supposed to do that?! And for what-->

Cervantes: <Hello? Police?> *on his phone* <Put on the angelic officer, please~>

benedetto:........*too stunned to say anything*

Dumas: *grunts, looks at Benedetto* <...You okay?>

marquis:.... <i think things got more complicated.....bene.....is villefort's son...>

Dumas: <... ... ...> *falls back* <You got to be kidding me.>

-elsewhere-

Asher: *unlocks the door to their apartment*

cassidy: there you are! do you have any idea how worried sick i was?!

Asher: "I know. I'm sorry. Something happened."

cassidy: *sighs* im just...i worry about you.

Asher: "..." *nods* "...This city is scary."

-elsewhere-

Kid: *pulls out a chair for Stocking*

stocking: *takes a seat*

Kid: *sits across from her* "I'm happy you're here."

stocking: *smiles* im happy you're here too.

Kid: ^\\\^ "Shall we order?" *opens his menu*

stocking: *nods*

-elsewhere-

yuu uraraka: *posing*

Mr. Uraraka: "Ballerina!"

ochako: flamingo!

Mrs. Uraraka: "A crane!"

Mr. Uraraka: "A Haijima Telescopic Crane 4200 with Hydraulic Extending/Retractable Boom!"

yuu uraraka: that's correct.

Mr. Uraraka: "Yes!"

-elsewhere-

Relan: "Hey." *nudge*

tamaki: ??

Relan: "I think it's my turn to keep watch by the phone..."

tamaki: ah.

Relan: "Going to bed or nap at least?" *sits by the phone, picks up a book*

tamaki: probably.

Relan: "Well, have a good night. I'll hit the alarm if there's anything..." *next to the phone is a camel-shaped alarm with the hump as a button*

-elsewhere-

Danglars: *yawns, walks into the dining room* <Good morning, wife, daughter, Lucian...> *looks* "..." <Lucian? Where are they?>

lucian: <errands>

Danglars: <Huh. Splendid! Glad to see Heloise getting an early start--and with the kid out for the day, I can finally concentrate on important things...> *pulls out his phone, starts scrolling through social media* <...Ha! Funny cat picture.>

-elsewhere-

*Mono's phone gets a text alert*

mono: ??

*It's a pic of Assi and Zuno, posing in front of the Leaning Tower--Zuno is "pushing" it down, Assi is trying to push it back up*

mono:....*small smile*

Yohei: "OOOOOOOOOooo..."

mono: *YELPS*

Yohei: "Looks like Assi and Zuno are having fun..."

-elsewhere-

valentine: ............

-there is various muttering amongst the funeral attendees-

Max: *walks into the Church, looking around* "..."

valentine: *biting her lip, looking down at the ground*

Minister: *shaking the hand of one guest* <Thank you for coming. Thank you...>

Max: "..." *walks up to her* <Valentine...I'm so sorry.>

valentine: *she doesnt say anything* ......

Max: "..." <If you need anything, Grandmother and I are here...>

valentine:.......

-elsewhere-

Cervantes: ^w^ <Thanks for putting us up for the night yesterday...>

Dumas: -_- <This bed is too cramped--move over.>

count: <any time. i even had your costumes replaced if needed.>

Dumas: T~T <Thank goodness...Do you know how hard it is to find the right wig to play Wilmore?>

count: <its understandable.>

Cervantes: <...How's Bene holding up?>

count: .....<he wants to find his mom...>

Dumas: *sighs* <Well, she's dead. Villefort remarried after his first wife died...>

count: <but what about _before_ he remarried? think about it. did bertuccio ever tell _where_ the child was buried?>

Cervantes: <Marquis had said the jerk forbade Bene to go back to that 'garden.' Maybe Bene knows that location?>

count: hmm...<i'll see what else i can get from him.>

Cervantes: ^w^ <Thanks! And let's look on the bright side: we got that jerk locked up...> =\\\w\\\=

-elsewhere-

stocking: *snuggled in bed*

Kid: *smooch*

stocking: i do not want to get out of bed today. im way too comfortable.

Kid: "Well, if I get of bed, I worry you'll get uncomfortable...or lonely." *cuddle*

stocking: *purrs*

Kid: *rubs her arm* =w= "Just 8 more minutes...Then I'll bring you breakfast in bed..."

-elsewhere-

Kazue: "..." *lowers a rope down the side of a building*

Saria: *looking up* "...What was wrong with them taking the stairs?"

lukas: beats me...

Kazue: *lands, pulls out a scroll* <Okay. Where are we heading?>

-elsewhere-

miyuri: *shiny eyes* WOOOOOOOOW!!!

Chuuya: "Now, don't walk too far--I think this may be 30 minutes?"

miyuri: okay!

sonia: *holding onto miyuri's hand*

*the hallway has some other students waiting for their parents*

Student: *glares at Sonia*

miyuri: *peeking into classrooms* WOOOW!

*the lights are off in other rooms, with desks lined up and whiteboards on the walls*

*looks like markers on the whiteboards, too*

miyuri: *GASP* what's that?

sonia: those are the whiteboards.

sonia: ^-^; that's the janitor's closet.

Student: *whispers to another one* "Who's that? Her stupid sister or something?"

sonia:.....*turns*

miyuri: *waves* hiiii! ^w^

Student: "?! ...Weirdo. You stupid or something?"

-PUNCH-

miyuri: hm?

sonia: *shaking, her hand balled up into a fist*

Student: *knocked down, holding his eye* "Ow! What the hell is wrong with you?! Freak!"

sonia: *glaring at him*

mother: arnie!! *hugs him* are you ok, sweetie?!

Arnie: *sniffs* "She hit me! She's a freak!"

mother: *glares at sonia* how dare you! what do you have to say for yourself, you little ingrate?!

sonia:.....

Arnie: "She should be expelled!"

miyuri: sonia? are you ok?

Chuuya: *steps out* "?! Sonia? What's wrong?"

teacher: what on earth is happening here?

mother: this little brat struck my baby!

Chuuya: *glares at the mother* "Sonia?"

sonia:...apologize...

Chuuya: "..." *looks at the boy--glaring*

sonia:...i dont care what happens to me...but i want you to apologize to my sister right now...

Chuuya: "..." *pats Sonia and Miyuri's shoulders*

mother: you expect an apology after you assaulted my child?! i should take you to court for this! *points to chuuya* _you_ need to control your children's wild behavior before they end up in prison!

Chuuya: *narrows his eyes* "I am sorry Sonia hit your child. Now it's his turn to apologize for what he did to her so she couldn't even come to class without fearing getting garbage thrown at her again."

mother: WHAT?! how dare you accuse my baby of such nonsense!

Chuuya: "Your 'baby' comes after my kids, they're going to stand up for themselves. That's how any parent should raise their child. So take your kid out of here now."

mother: how DARE you speak to me like that! do you have any idea who i am?!

Chuuya: "Should I?"

mother: i'll have you know my husband is head of sales at the death city mall!

teacher: and yet you take the subway to work.

mother: !!!

Chuuya: *smirks* "Important work. Maybe your husband should focus on parenting, too."

mother: *speechless*

Chuuya: "...Sonia, Miyuri, the meeting is about done. Ready to head out?"

miyuri: ok!

sonia:......

Chuuya: "..." *pats her shoulder*

-elsewhere-

Fernand: *yawns* *opens his front door--* "?!"

dulcenia: <mr mondego, do you have a moment?>

Fernand: "..." *smiles* <Of course...> *closes the door behind him, stands on front steps* <How may I help you?>

-there are a few officers there as well-

Fernand: <...> *gulps*

dulcenia: <we'd like to ask a few questions of you, if you dont mind.>

Fernand: <Go ahead...>

dulcenia: <we're investigating a recent fire at one of the shops you ensure, and we're trying to determine the cause.>

Fernand: <Ah, I see. It's indeed unfortunate--I've had my investigators checking as well...>

dulcenia: <from what the owner told me, you made them an offer that morning before the fire. how curious.>

Fernand: <Hmm...You think someone is targeting locations that I've insured.>

dulcenia: <it's likely. seems you've been getting quite a lot of money from it, so that should be a bright side, right?>

Fernand: "..." *sighs* <It is a tragedy for my clients. However, also consider the costs for me: the money I receive goes into re-building these businesses, finding what happened and who is responsible...if someone is indeed responsible. After all, I have to make sure my clients weren't faking this so they could collect their share of the insurance money.>

dulcenia: <and how long do you suppose the investigation will take?>

Fernand: <These kinds of things are complicated. Could take a month, even a year.>

dulcenia: *whistles* <i think we can find a much, much, quicker solution.>

Fernand: "..." *narrows his eyes* <With police cooperation, yes...I think this could go more quickly...>

dulcenia: *plays the recording*

Fernand: <?!>

dulcenia: *smirks* <your expression says enough. cuff him.>

Fernand: "..." *narrows his eyes, holds out his wrists*

mercedes: <fernand? what's going on?>

Fernand: <?! Mercedes, I left numbers by the phone--call Robert!>

mercedes: ???

Fernand: <He's a lawyer--get him to the police station-->

Police Officer: <Come along.>

mercedes: <officer toboso?>

Fernand: <!!!>

dulcenia: *nods* <seems your husband here is suspected of fraud and arson conspiracy>

mercedes: !!!! <fernand? is that true?>

Fernand: <Call my lawyer!>

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "Okay, girls--which flavors?"

miyuri: *face pressed against the glass case* oooooooooooooooooh! *shiny eyes*

sonia:....just vanilla....

Chuuya: "Okay, vanilla for Sonia. Miyuri, how about...You know what, Miyuri, just stick to one flavor for now--don't want to over-stimulate your taste buds..."

miyuri: *looking at them all* miyuri doesnt know which one to have first!

Chuuya: "Chocolate may not be bad."

miyuri: ooh! that one!

Chuuya: "Any toppings? Maybe sprinkles?"

miyuri: can we?

Chuuya: "Sure!"

-elsewhere-

*pallbearers carry the two coffins...*

valentine: ......

Villefort: *stone faced*

Heloise: *struggling to appear morose*

edouard: ...

*the pallbearers bring the coffins to the plots dug up...they are next to the grave of Valentine's mother*

Max: *watching Heloise's face* "..."

valentine: *shaking*

*the coffins are lowered...*

Minister: <Please take a handful of our Lord's earth, so that our friends may be returned to that Earth, until such time that we see them again in the next world...>

-elsewhere-

Asher: "Yo." *waves*

izumi: hey!

Asher: "What're you doing out?"

izumi: just taking a walk.

Asher: "Hmmm..." *walks with her* "Relaxing weekend?"

izumi: yeah.

Asher: *nods...rubs their arm*

izumi: ?? you ok?

Asher: "Yeah--just in pain from a beatdown--er, at the arcade, on a machine...Frogger." >_>;

izumi: ...

Asher: *awkward cough* "So, just recuperating...Making sure not to over-do it..."

izumi:...want to hang out?

Asher: "Hmm? Yeah, sure. Anywhere you heading?"

izumi: hmm, how about the park?

Asher: *nods* "Okay." *walks with her* "Hope it's not super-crowded..."

-elsewhere-

Akutagawa: "Okay, so 2 of them?"

gin: *nods*

Akutagawa: *holds up fingers to the crepe maker* "Two, please." *looks at Gin* "New sundress?"

gin: yeah.

Akutagawa: "It looks good."

-elsewhere-

Lucy: "Cute uniform, Aya."

aya: =3= thank you.

Kunikida: "Take seriously the responsibilities represented by that uniform."

aya: yes sir.

Lucy: "Yeah...I notice the boys here don't exactly have some uniform...Never had any non-female secretaries?"

kirako: a few, yes.

Lucy: "Huh...Do they all have to dress like Kunikida?"

Kunikida: -_-#

-elsewhere-

Kid: *reading*

stocking: *still snuggled up to him* =w=

Kid: =\\\\= *smooch*

-elsewhere-

Francesca: *holding papers to herself as she walks* "..."

valentine:.... !!!!

Francesca: *frowning, her lip quivering*

valentine: *runs over* <francesca!>

Francesca: *holds up her hands, stepping back, shaking her head*

valentine: <francesca, what's wrong? why havent you answered my calls?!>

Francesca: <...You knew about that bastard? Your fucking grandfather?>

valentine: !!??

Francesca: *shoves papers at Valentine* <Noirtier Villefort--member of Mimic--the man who killed countless soldiers, including my dad! Did you know this?!>

valentine: *too stunned to speak*

Francesca: <...You have to be kidding me...You knew your dad and his dad were involved in Mimic?! What the fuck, Val?!!>

valentine: <i didnt, honest!>

Francesca: "..." <How can I believe this? My dad is dead. Your grandfather just laughed at me-->

valentine: <i didnt even know i _had_ another grandfather until now!>

Francesca: "..." *inhales, holds her forehead* <...Old man named Colby? Your dad has kept him hidden for about 6 years since your dad sentenced some guy to a slow death in prison. None of this rings a bell?>

valentine: ........

Francesca: "..." <Oh God...> *falls to her knees*

valentine: <francesca-> *reaches out to her*

Francesca: *shaking all over* <Don't! I can't!> *sobbing*

valentine: ah-....*hug*

Francesca: *shaking, struggling against the hug, but sobbing*

valentine: <it's going to be ok... we can get through this...>

Francesca: <I'm sorry...> *hug* <I'm so sorry...>

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: *opens the door* "Careful not to spill..."

miyuri: ok!

sonia:....*walking upstairs to her room*

Chuuya: "...Sonia? Could we talk?"

sonia:.....

Chuuya: "That was the boy who attacked you that day after school, huh?"

sonia:......*gets under the covers of her bed*

Chuuya: "Sonia, please...I really want to talk about this."

sonia:....yeah...one of them...

Chuuya: *sighs* "I'm so sorry...More than one? I tried asking your teacher about them..."

sonia:...they say im trying to make them look bad by getting answers right...but im not trying to do that. im just doing what im told to do...

Chuuya: *nods* "You're doing the right thing--it's not your fault that your classmates are being asses."

sonia: *sniff* i-im not trying to be better than anyone at all, but they think i am. *shaking* i never asked to be like this...

Chuuya: *hug* "I know...None of us ask to be how we are..."

sonia: *whimpering* i-im going to be an outcast forever, arent i?

Chuuya: "Sweetie, no...No. It takes time to find the people in your life you want to be with."

sonia: w-why couldnt i have been normal? *sobbing*

Chuuya: *strokes her back, holding her*

sonia: *crying into his chest*

Chuuya: "I'm so sorry, Sonia...But this is not your fault. You are you--and you are a beautiful, smart, imaginative, hardworking person who deserves so much..."

sonia: *hic*

Chuuya: *rubs her back* "Sonia...I'm so proud of you, especially for protecting Miyuri."

sonia:...*sniff* im sorry for getting her involved in this...

Chuuya: "I know you are...But there's no way to avoid getting involved in every problem--it's why we have to get stronger to face anything...and that means standing up for yourself and others."

sonia: ....

Chuuya: "...Sonia, are you not happy in your class?"

sonia:....can i be homeschooled for a while?

Chuuya: "If you want, sure. But I think you should consider that offer your teacher had...about you skipping some grades.'

sonia:......

Chuuya: "Just think about it...I'll call Kajii in the morning."

sonia:...*sniff*

Chuuya: *pats her back* "Thank you for standing up for Miyuri."

sonia:....*nod*

Chuuya: "Want to rest a bit?"

sonia:........*nod*

Chuuya: "Okay. Sleep for a bit...Want anything? Water?" *hands her tissues*

-elsewhere-

Max: *walking home* "..." ("What is up with her stepmom...She was weird the entire time...")

???: <maxi!>

Max: "???" *turns* <Oh!> *waves*

-max's sister, julie, and her husband, are there-

Emmanuel: <Hey, Max.>

Max: "..." *nods* <H-Hey...>

julie: ?? <you ok?>

Max: <I-I just came from the funeral...>

julie: <oh...>

Max: *nods* <...Val's not doing well...Not talking...>

julie: <is there something we can do to help?>

Max: <I'm not sure...She needs time to heal, and, ugh, I'm already pressed for time...>

julie: <well we wont keep you long.>

Max: <S-Sorry, I didn't mean it like that...How are you feeling?>

julie: <alright. the little one's growing more and more.> *rubs her stomach*

Max: *smiles* <That's good...How much longer?>

julie: <about two months now...>

Max: <Still some time...> *sighs*

-elsewhere-

Fernand: *handcuffed to the table* "..."

???: <well, look how the mighty have fallen.>

Fernand: <?!> *looks*

-the count stands in a corner of the cell-

count: <a pleasure to meet you, mr mondego.>

Fernand: <Who the hell are you?>

count: <you dont know me, but i believe you knew my father...does the name 'Edmond Dantes' ring any bells?>

Fernand: <?!>

count: ...<i think your reaction says it all...so why? what did he do to deserve such a fate?>

Fernand: <Wh-What fate? I haven't seen Edmond in years...>

count: <perhaps i should introduce myself first. My name is Elena Dantes, my father died by your hand....>

Fernand: "..." *lets out a laugh*

elena: <and now....>

-SHRK-

Fernand: *coughs...looks down*

-there is a knife in his chest-

elena: <...you die by mine...>

Fernand: *gasps, struggling to call for help...*

elena: *takes the knife out and walks toward the small window, her body dissapating into a mist and escaping*

Fernand: *his throat constricts...he collapses onto the table*

-elsewhere-

Bakugo: "I came here, to this mall, one of many malls in this city, just to find socks. SOCKS. And you're still following me..."

eijiro: just thought we could hang out a little bit. ^^

Bakugo: -_-# "...If you delay my shopping, I'm going to put you through the wall." *walks with him*

-elsewhere-

Sakuya: *checking through closet* "You sure none of these are what you're looking for?"

tsubaki: i dont think so.

Sakuya: "Nuts...Maybe buy a new one?" *pulls out a dress tie, looking at it* "Huh. Gaudy..."

tsubaki: i guess. ^^;

-elsewhere-

*there's a mechanical blowfish staring at the 8th*

shinra: ._.

Akitaru: "This one isn't going to blow up, right?"

Vulcan: "Not if it works right..."

tamaki: and _it_ is...?

Vulcan: "It's an ultra wide-band device that can detect breathing even under 100 feet of debris."

shinra: woah!

Vulcan: *presses a button labeled 'Test'*

Blowfish Scanner: *eyes light up as it inflates*

Vulcan: "See? That's what it'll do when it detects breathing..."

nozomi: wow! that's incredible, vulcan!

Vulcan: ^^ "Thanks...I hope it'll help, not just for the next house fire but if we can scope the underground again--or if you encounter Chinese fire worms again..."

tamaki: *sweatdrop*

-elsewhere-

Wes: *rubs Ghost Dog's belly*

ghost dog: =w=

Wes: *smiles...checks his phone's calendar* "Few more weeks before practice..."

liz: got any events coming up?

Wes: "Yeah, a practice first--trying to get some replacements...Before the next concert."

liz: ah.

-elsewhere-

Tezca: "--so I said 'You think I'm under deep cover? No one has even seen Akane and Clay in months!'" *laughs loudly, slapping the table*

clay:....we're right here.

Tezca: "...Oooooooooo! Neat disguises!" *tugs on Clay's face* "I can't believe you disguised yourself as Clay, Akane!"

Akane: *sitting beside Tezca, sipping tea*

clay: >A< MR TLIPOCA!!

Akane: *chop* "Stop that."

Tezca: =3= "Not my fault the makeup is so thorough..."

clay: IT'S NOOOT! >3<

Tezca: "Oh, don't sell yourself short--"

Akane: *pulls Tezca loose, ripping his bear head off--and there's no head underneath*

Tezca: "..."

clay:....*SCREAMS AND FAINTS*

Akane: O_O;

Tezca: "..." *reaches into his dufflebag, pulls out another bear head, puts it on, screwing it in properly* "Ah, that's better..."

-elsewhere-

Anya: *brushing her hair*

ao: anya?

Anya: "Hmm? Yes?"

ao: miss misery is hosting a knitting group downstairs, care to join?

Anya: "Oh...Sure." *stands up* "That would help..."

-elsewhere-

mercedes: ....

Albert: <Papa?>

mercedes:...<papa will be home soon, baby.> *picks him up*

Albert: *sniffles, hugs her*

mercedes: *rocking him*

Albert: *closes his eyes, slowly falls asleep...*

mercedes:...*forehead kiss and puts him in his crib*

Albert: "Zzz..."

-elsewhere-

Hyde: *counting dollar bills* "Okay, where do we want to dine tonight, folks?"

romina: lets get pizza!

Hyde: "Okay! Toppings? Remember, pineapple is still a topping."

julian: =~=

licht: -_-#

Hyde: "??? Okay, fine--one plain cheese for the boring ones..."

-elsewhere-

Hibana: *reviewing child services paperwork* "..."

gabriella: is everything ok?

Hibana: "I'm not sure...Was looking into some kids that Rekka bastard kidnapped and where they went..." *pulls up another file: "Shinra Kusakabe"*

gabriella: hmm...

Hibana: "..." *rests her head on her shoulder*

gabriella:...*hugs*

Hibana: *hug* *rubs her back, quiet*

hanako: *peeks in* mama?

Hibana: "??? Hi, sweetie..."

hanako: can we watch movies?

Hibana: *smiles* "Sure. What you feeling?"

hanako: disney movies? *shiny eyes*

Hibana: "Heh heh...Sure!" *head rub*

hanako: ^^

Hibana: "Pick out the first one, okay?"

-elsewhere-

Assi: *flipping through posters of famous Italian paintings...*

Daisy: "What, finding something for your girlfriend?"

Assi: "?! N-No..."

mary: *snapping photos*

Fitzgerald: "Wait just a moment--you are missing something in that photo."

mary: ??

Fitzgerald: *poses*

mary: ooh! *snaps pics*

Fitzgerald: *more poses*

Daisy: =_=;

Zuno: "..." *whispers* "Who's that weirdo?"

louisa: *staring at an eagle that has landed on mary's head, pecking at her*

Assi: O_O; "...Sh-Should we warn her about this?"

louisa: i dont think she's bothered...

Daisy: "High tolerance for pain..."

-elsewhere-

Akutagawa: *sets down food in front of Q*

Q: thanks for the food! *nom*

Akutagawa: "..." *nods* "Hope it is sufficient."

higuchi: ^^

Gin: "It's good to see them getting along."

higuchi: yeah, it sure is.

Gin: "...How do you think Q is getting along? Seeing as there are few others around his age in the Mafia..."

higuchi: well, there is elise...technically.

Gin: *nods* "Both of them could use more acquaintances...technically."

higuchi: yeah....didnt hirotsu mention a gang of kids that were once scouts for the mafia? the 'sheep'?

Gin: *nods* "I do not know how willing they would be willing to work with the Mafia again after certain poor encounters."

higuchi: and considering how long ago it was, most of them are probably all grown up by now...

Gin: *nods* "Time flies...Q got along well enough with the Sturm kids."

higuchi: yeah....

Gin: "...Maybe something can be arranged for a playdate again."

-elsewhere-

valentine: .......

*looks to be messages from Max, her dad...and one text listed as "Unknown"*

valentine:...*checks*

Max: [<valentine i'm so sorry. please know you have friends and that you are not alone. if you need anything please ask>]

valentine:....[<thanks>]

Max: [<any time>]

valentine:.....*sigh*

*looks like her father's message was just asking when she was getting home...*

valentine:......*checks the unknown number*

Unknown Number: [<hello, child. you and i will talk now.>]

valentine:...[<who are you?>]

*suddenly, she hears wheels creaking behind her*

valentine: ?!?!?! *turns*

*a very old man in a wheelchair rolls up to her...a cell phone is in his lap*

valentine: *screams*

Old Man: "?!" <Shhh! You want to wake up the whole house?!>

valentine: <w-who are you?!>

Old Man: <Gerard's father, Valentine.>

valentine: .....<you....you killed francesca's father....>

Noirtier: <??? Who? ...Wait, was that the name of that 'nurse' who accosted me? Huh...Wait, how do you know her?>

valentine: <she's...._was_ my girlfriend...w-why are you here? what do you want?> *taking a fire poker to defend herself*

Noirtier: *frowns* <Well, this gets more complicated...Let's table the whole 'girlfriend' thing and focus on the fact that your stepmother is likely gunning for you.>

valentine: ?!

Noirtier: <Oh, come on--'gas leak'? That's low-level nonsense...> *takes a medical folder on his lap and drops it to his feet* <Pick it up.>

valentine:....*looks*

*it's a coroner's report, showing photos of her grandparents...*

valentine: *covers her mouth*

*the report lists 'brucine'*

Noirtier: <Shocking, I know...Except you're ignoring the big red flag that the anti-cancer medicine brucine was found in their systems...>

valentine: .....

Noirtier: <And neither of your grandparents had cancer...Now, where do you think the brucine came from?>

valentine:....<i dont know...>

Noirtier: <This is why I went through their medical files. The answer? Nope. That brucine was used to poison them.>

valentine: <y-you dont think...>

Noirtier: <Now, you haven't asked me: why do I suspect your stepmother? Where did she visit last, Granddaughter?>

valentine:........<why should i trust anything you say?>

Noirtier: <You have no reason to. So, you can wait for the facts to present themselves--at which point, you'll be dead. Or you can be smart and think whether you have seen anything that proves she wants to get rid of you and your family to take your inheritance.>

valentine:........

Noirtier: <...I never got to talk to your mother. But I remember her jewelry...So exquisite.>

valentine: <i remember her pearl necklace...>

Noirtier: <And where is it now?>

valentine: <it should be in...> *goes to look*

Noirtier: *still in his chair* <...No problem. I'll wait.>

-later, valentine runs back in-

valentine: *shaking* <it's-...it's gone!!>

Noirtier: "..." *small smirk*

valentine: <w-what do i do?>

Noirtier: <Do you remember seeing anything at the scene of the crime...I mean, at your grandparents' house?>

valentine: <i-i'm trying to think...>

Noirtier: <Trace your steps backwards, child...>

valentine: ......

Noirtier: "..." *pulls out a vial*

valentine: <w-what is that?>

Noirtier: <Your medicine...>

-elsewhere-

miyuri: zzzz...

Chuuya: "???" *checks the girls' room*

sonia: *still asleep*

Chuuya: "..." *checks on Sonia first, checking her temperature on her forehead*

-she's a slight bit warm-

Chuuya: "Oh no..."

miyuri: *yaaawn* =.=

Chuuya: *looks* "..." *checks on Miyuri*

miyuri: tacchan?

Chuuya: "..." *sighs*

miyuri: *opens eyes* oh, hi papa.

Chuuya: *smile* "Hey, kiddo..."

miyuri: is sonia ok?

Chuuya: "...I think she may be a little under the weather, so keep up your fluids and wash your hands so you don't get sick..."

miyuri: ok papa!

Chuuya: *smiles, strokes a hand over her head* "Now, get some more sleep. Sorry to wake you."

-morning-

Kid: *kitten yawn*

stocking: *making breakfast*

Kid: *walks into the kitchen* "Good morning..."

stocking: morning hunny~ anything you want?

Kid: *smiles* "Some pancakes with sugar?" *hugs her*

stocking: that sounds lovely~

Kid: "Hee hee..." *nuzzles* "Thanks, sweetie."

-elsewhere-

Danglars: -^- "..." <Do you really think I'm this stupid?>

lucian: .....

Danglars: *holds up an empty milk carton* <Hermine has not bought more! She never came home last night--where is she?!>

lucian: ...<staying with relatives?>

Danglars: <Why didn't she tell me?!>

lucian: <well to be fair, you would have just ignored her.>

Danglars: <?! How dare you!>

lucian: <i'm just being honest.>

Danglars: <Really? How's this for honest?!> *throws the empty milk carton at Lucian*

lucian:...<throwing trash at me isnt going to make your problems disappear.>

Danglars: <Then this will: YOU'RE FIRED!>

lucian: ....<with all due respect, the only reason i stayed is for your family's sake, so that your wife didnt lose her mind and kill herself and eugenie. but all i have to say is; kindly go fuck yourself and die.>

Danglars: <?!!! Y-You insubordinate traitor!> *reaches for Lucian* <Did you take my wife?!>

lucian: grk- <i d-did nothing!>

Danglars: <You probably had a thing with her, you thief! Give me back my money!>

lucian: <i have not! *shoves him off* and besides, i'm not even into women!>

Danglars: <URK! Is that so?! That's just your cover!> *swings his fist--*

lucian: !!! *dodges*

Danglars: *screams--as he falls down the stairs*

lucian: <sir, if you dont calm down, i'm going to call the police!>

Danglars: <CALL THEM! I'LL TELL THEM YOU KIDNAPPED MY WIFE!>

lucian: *ignoring him*

Danglars: <I'll have your head! I'll make sure you get the guillotine! I'll--> *tries to stand, falls* <...Ow.>

lucian:.... <i'd get you help, but from what i recall, i'm out of a job, so i'm just going to pack my things and mosey on out of here. toodles~>

Danglars: *LOUD ANGRISH* <I'LL HAVE YOUR HEAD FOR THIS! Ow...I need a doctor...>

-elsewhere-

mercedes: .....

-knocks-

mercedes: ??

Albert: <Papa?>

mercedes: <wait here, baby.> *opens the door* <yes?>

Police Officer: <Mrs. Mondego?>

mercedes: <yes?>

Police Officer: *takes off their hat* <We wanted to let you know something about your husband...Would you like to sit down?>

mercedes: <...please, do come in...>

Police Officer: *enters* <...> *looks at Albert* "..." *sighs deeply* <Ma'am...As you know, your husband was taken into police custody...>

mercedes: *nods*

Police Officer: <...Last night, an officer found your husband in his jail cell, unconscious.>

mercedes: !!!

Police Officer: <Medical attempted to resuscitate him...I'm sorry. They were not able to...>

mercedes: *covers her mouth in shock*

Police Officer: <...We are investigating the cause of death at this time...>

mercedes: ......

Police Officer: <...Do you need a moment?>

mercedes:...<y-yes..please...>

Police Officer: *nods* <I'll be outside...> *exits*

mercedes:...*hides her face in her hands, crying*

Albert: <??? Mama?>

mercedes:...*picks him up and hugs him*

Albert: "..." *holds onto her, looking contemplative*

mercedes:...<papa...papa's gone to heaven now...>

Albert: <Papa? Gone?>

mercedes:...*sniffs and kisses his head* <it's just you and me now...>

Albert: <...Mama...> *reaches for her face*

mercedes: <...we're gonna make things work out, i promise...>

Albert: <...> *sniffle*

mercedes *rocking him, humming*

Albert: *small baby cries before closing his eyes, calming down...*

-elsewhere-

Lucian's Friend: <Good morning, ma'am and young lady!> *smiles*

eugenie: *eating waffles*

hermine:...*nods* <g-good morning>

Lucian's Friend: ^w^ <Was the bed comfortable? I could get a different pillow until the new one comes in the mail...>

hermine: <i-it's fine, really.> *looks out the window*

*Forecast today in Rome looks to be sunny...*

hermine:...*small smile* <thank you again, erm->

Lucian's Friend: <Cavalcanti.>

hermine: <right, right. i really do appreciate this.>

Cavalcanti: <Well, when Lucian called, I was a bit anxious...I mean, not every day I have visitors...> ^^;;;

-elsewhere-

Chuuya: "Sonia? Breakfast..."

sonia: ....

Chuuya: "??? Sonia?" *checks on her*

sonia: *hiding under the covers*

Chuuya: "..." *sits on her bed* "Hey."

sonia:....

Chuuya: "...Need to sleep a bit longer?"

sonia:...*weak nod*

Chuuya: "Okay...Whenever you're ready, come out for something to eat--whatever you want. Need some water?"

sonia:...*nod*

Chuuya: *smiles* "Okay. Be right back..." *exits the bedroom*

miyuri: ~?

Chuuya: "Miyuri, hungry?"

miyuri: mmhmm!

Chuuya: "I'll cook up some breakfast after I get Sonia some water..."

miyuri: ok!

Chuuya: *pours a glass of orange juice for Miyuri* "You can start with that..." *pours a glass of water, grabs a warm washcloth, too, and goes back to Sonia* "Sonia? Here you go..." *holds out the glass*

sonia:...*small sips*

Chuuya: "Need a warm towel for your neck?"

sonia:...im ok....

Chuuya: *nods* "...Want to talk?"

sonia:...i dunno...

Chuuya: "..." *nods* "How about you read something after you wake up? Anything I can get you?"

sonia: ....

Chuuya: "...Would you like me to step out and let you sleep?"

sonia:...*nod*

Chuuya: "..." *nods...hugs her* "I love you, Sonia."

-elsewhere-

#death city days

[paras-atashnak]

NICOLAS’ SIMS BIG BROTHER SEASON ONE: CAST REVEAL PART 2

Its time to meet the second 8 cast members for Nicolas’ Sims Big Brother Season 1!

Click HERE to see Part 1

Miracle Robinson

@normani-x-kordei

Name: Miracle Robinson Age: 22 Hometown: Bothell, WA Current city: Seattle, WA Occupation: Youtube Star Three adjectives that describe you: Sarcastic, musical, and athletic. Favorite activities: Football (Soccer), vlogging, and playing the guitar. What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Not being able to see my girlfriend! She’s my biggest support system and best friend, and it's gonna be hard not having her there if things get rough. Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? I loved Bridgette Dunning from BB18, her competitive nature and personality were just so likeable. It’s a shame she was robbed but i base my strategy on her own! I really didn’t like Jessica and Cody from BB19, they were so bland and problematic. They managed to win over America solely on their looks and “charisma” or whatever but it was total bull crap! Do you have a strategy for winning the game? I know the “majority alliance” strategy is poor, so I wanna a strong core group of about four to five people who I can utilize for my game, without presenting myself has the bigger target in my group. I wanna use my athleticism to keep myself safe, but only really win com petitions that’ll utilize my own game, such as Power of Veto competitions. I want to undermine my game, up until the point that it’ll be good to share where I stand. Honesty is also very important once people are evicted, so i'm gonna try and avoid getting into pointless fights. My life’s motto is… When you can't find the sunshine, be the sunshine! What would you take into the house, and why? A soccer ball, so that i could play whenever I want! My guitar, cause I love to express my creativity whenever I can! My girlfriend, cause I love her! Fun facts about yourself: I’ve released a full scale album, I have 8 million subscribers on YouTube, I started YouTube when I was 14 years old! I'm the youngest woman of my family and I used to be in an all-girl punk band in college! ’ve released a full scale album, I have 8 million subscribers on YouTube, I started YouTube when I was 14 years old! I'm the youngest woman of my family and I used to be in an all-girl punk band in college! 

Ryder Bates

@bugguhl

Name: Ryder Bates Age: 28 Hometown: Houston, Texas Current city: Houston, Texas Occupation: Carpenter

Three adjectives that describe you: Relaxed, Fun, Happy Favorite activities: Building stuff, going hunting, spending time with my family What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Being away from Texas Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Cody Nickson. He seems like a good guy. Do you have a strategy for winning the game? Sure. My life’s motto is… work hard, play harder What would you take into the house, and why? The Texas Flag Fun facts about yourself: I like building stuff, going hunting, and spending time with my family. 

Rafael Torres 

@ika-rogers

Name: Rafael Torres Age: 22 Hometown: Hartford, CT Current city: Los Angeles, CA Occupation: Tattoo Artist Three adjectives that describe you: Artistic, Intelligent, Sensitive  Favorite activities: listening to music, hanging out with friends, hoeing What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Being away from friends and family and not being able to express creativity. Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Janelle Pierzina Do you have a strategy for winning the game? Stay laying low for the first few weeks and building relationships, then making one loyal ally im honest with and snaking our way to Final 2 together.  My life’s motto is… Like I mean I don't even know why you girls bother at this point. Like give up, it's me, I win, you lose. What would you take into the house, and why? I would take my phone in if I could, but just for grindr or something because im sure these men will be a bunch of straight demons. Fun facts about yourself: I am an aspiring model as well as an actor!

Elizabeth Latour

@pizzapocket24

Name: Elizabeth Latour Age: 32 Hometown: Cornwall Current city: Cornwall Occupation: Hairstylist and Aesthetician Three adjectives that describe you: Funny, Loud, and Respectful Favorite activities: Reading, sleeping, doing hair, doing make up, taking care of people and knitting  What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Not being able to do my favorite things! Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? I’m a big fan of people that are able to use strategy so people like Ika Wong, Dr. Will, and Vanessa Rousso. People that are very strategic but sometimes actually win competitions. Do you have a strategy for winning the game? Wing it, I guess Fun facts about yourself: When people first meet me they think I’m very shy and quiet but actually I’m very explosive and loud and talkative.

Salem Westcroft

@pantaires

Name: Salem Westcroft Age: 22 Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland Current city: New Orleans, Louisiana Occupation: Psychic/Tarot Card Reader Three adjectives that describe you: Spiritual, Friendly, Intelligent Favorite activities: Reading tarot cards by far What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Being away from my cats. Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Jun Song. Do you have a strategy for winning the game? I'm gonna meditate a lot. Keep a level head. Hopefully if I keep to my rituals, the path to the end will reveal itself to me. My life’s motto is… What goes around, comes around. What would you take into the house, and why? My cards. I've given myself a reading every day since I was twelve. It's helped me prepare myself for things coming my way, and that would be very helpful in this game. Also my cats. I'm not used to falling asleep alone. Fun facts about yourself: I've lived in 20 states, I have seven cats, and I can stick both feet behind my head.

Alexander Thompson

@vanessacries

Name: Alexander Thompson Age: 23 Hometown: Seaside, Oregon Current City: Seattle, Washington Occupation: Scientist Three adjectives that describe you: Kind, Quiet, and Emotional Favorite Activites: Working in a lab, painting, and anything where he can work with animals. What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Not being able to be around a ton of animals, and having to socialize constantly with strangers. Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Rachel Reilly, she was smart and outrageous and not afraid to shake the game up. Do you have a strategy to win the game? Lay low initially and observe everyone to see how they tick. Try to adjust to the dynamic of this house because every big brother house is different. Play big brother like I play chess. My life motto is... don’t show all your cards at once. If you have an advantage, hold it. What would you take into the house and why? My pet fish Paul because he is my favorite friend, my microscope so I could take samples from the backyard and houseguest and do some beneficial research, and a good book, because sometimes I’ll probably need good entertainment. Fun facts about yourself: I have 47 animals that I live with and they are my family and I love them and I hope that they are safe while I’m gone.

Shae Patel

@tahny-lew

Name: Shae Patel Age: 24 Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah Current City: Sacramento, California Occupation: Pro FPS Gamer Three Adjectives that describe you: Committed, lazy, open-minded Favorite Activities: Gaming, napping, doing make-up, watching tv What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? I don’t really like being bossed around. I love working as a team. I need to do that on the daily. But don’t tell me how I should do things. That gets me worked up. Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Can I have two? I’m gonna say two people. I loved Bridgette from season 18. She didn’t take shit from anyone and was really vocal about being a feminist, which I admire. I also loved Ian in season 14! I thought he was so adorable and likeable. I still think Dan should have beaten him, but I loooved Ian that season. Do you have a strategy for winning the game? My favorite person game-wise was Jun from season 4. She had almost no loyalty to anyone and people still kept her. I want to play like that, except be more discreet about it. I don’t want people to know that I don’t have 100% loyalty to anyone. What would you take into the house, and why? I’d take my cat! His name is Lucio and he always knows just how to cheer me up if I’m feeling bad about myself. I’m gonna miss him so much! Fun facts about yourself: I know Hindi and ASL fluently, I’m allergic to seafood, and my favorite color is blue! But like navy blue.

Thaddeus Purdue

@davonnelickey

Name: Thaddeus Purdue Age: 27 Hometown: Palm Springs Current City: New York City Occupation: Computer Programmer Three adjectives that describe you: Friendly, happy, and quiet What do you think will be the most difficult part about living inside the Big Brother house? Not being able to have alone time or decompress Which past Big Brother cast member did you like most? Danielle Reyes! She’s the robbed queen. I wish I had the heart to manipulate people like she did! Do you have a strategy for winning the game? I’d like to lay low and become friends with everyone. I want to feel people out before I decide who to pretend to trust and who not to. I’m not afraid to backstab, and I’ll definitely be the one to strike first. Hopefully I’ll get the alpha males out first and only work with women. My life’s motto is... Shit Happens. What would you take into the house and why? My nail clippers. I got some gnarly toenails. Three interesting things about me: I shower with the lights off. Demi Lovato once called me ugly. I have a murse (man purse)

The Premiere will be posted later tonight!

#ns4bb1 #bb19