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  1. ______ _ _______
  2. (____ \ _ | | (_______) _
  3. ____) )_____ _____ _| |_| | _____ ___ _ _ _____ ____ ' ___ _____ ___ ____ _| |_ ____ _____ ___ ___
  4. | __ (| ___ | ___ (_ _) || ___ |/ _ \ | | | ___ | _ \ /___) | ___) _ \ / ___|_ _)/ ___) ___ |/___)/___)
  5. | |__) ) ____| ____| | |_| || ____| |_| \ V /| ____| | | |___ | | | | |_| | | | |_| | | ____|___ |___ |
  6. |______/|_____)_____) \__)\_)_____)\___/ \_/ |_____)_| |_(___/ |_| \___/|_| \__)_| |_____|___/(___/
  7.  
  8.  
  9.  
  10.  
  11. @@---
  12. @@=====
  13. @@Session One
  14. @@=====
  15. @@---
  16.  
  17. [2008-08-31 21:02:07] * [PYG]Cerise stands watch at the front of the fortress using her rifle to aid in keeping watch. She flicks a switch on the communicator she has on her ear.
  18. [2008-08-31 21:02:31] <[PYG]Cerise> "Master, I see no signs of those insect creatures."
  19. [2008-08-31 21:02:47] <[PYG]Cerise> "Things look all right for now."
  20. [2008-08-31 21:02:59] <[PYG]Cerise> "Over."
  21. [2008-08-31 21:03:17] * [GM]Ludwig sits at a long table in a large room at the center of the Fortress: the war room.
  22. [2008-08-31 21:03:19] * [PB]Teilya pulls out a satellite controller and stares into the screen.
  23. [2008-08-31 21:03:27] * [gtz]Mary removes her large headphones
  24. [2008-08-31 21:03:35] * [GM]Ludwig presses a button at his side.
  25. [2008-08-31 21:03:39] <[gtz]Mary> I don't hear them on sonar either, sir.
  26. [2008-08-31 21:03:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Thank you, Cerise. Over and out.
  27. [2008-08-31 21:03:48] * [PB]Teilya then pulls out a radio.
  28. [2008-08-31 21:04:18] <[PB]Teilya> Reporting! Bugs are all gathering to the west nya~!
  29. [2008-08-31 21:04:32] <[GM]Ludwig> To the west? Hmm.
  30. [2008-08-31 21:04:37] <[GM]Ludwig> How far?
  31. [2008-08-31 21:05:01] * [PB]Teilya pulls out another device and reads the figures.
  32. [2008-08-31 21:05:22] <[PB]Teilya> Ah...100 miles away~
  33. [2008-08-31 21:06:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Then even if they are massing for an attack, it'll be days before they can reach us... good.
  34. [2008-08-31 21:06:29] <[Nom]Alexis> That's wonderful, master!
  35. [2008-08-31 21:06:31] * [GM]Ludwig leans back in his chair and sighs.
  36. [2008-08-31 21:06:35] * [Nom]Alexis fawns
  37. [2008-08-31 21:06:39] <[GM]Ludwig> It seems we live another day.
  38. [2008-08-31 21:07:02] * [GM]Ludwig closes his eyes and rubs at his neck.
  39. [2008-08-31 21:07:36] <[gtz]Mary> "The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken. . . . They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power and great glory. . . . I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened."
  40. [2008-08-31 21:07:45] <[gtz]Mary> Everything is eventual, sir.
  41. [2008-08-31 21:08:07] * [PYG]Cerise eyes the landscape through her scope. She can't believe what she's seeing. Quickly, she flicks her communicator to life once again. She speaks with slight panic in her voice..."
  42. [2008-08-31 21:08:19] * [GM]Ludwig smiles a little.
  43. [2008-08-31 21:08:57] <[PYG]Cerise> "I don't think we can relax just yet, Master."
  44. [2008-08-31 21:08:58] <[GM]Ludwig> I hope you're right, Mary.
  45. [2008-08-31 21:09:09] * [gtz]Mary continues to focus on her braille bible
  46. [2008-08-31 21:09:17] <[PYG]Cerise> "Th-they're flying!"
  47. [2008-08-31 21:09:24] <[PYG]Cerise> "Over."
  48. [2008-08-31 21:09:45] * [GM]Ludwig presses the intercom button again.
  49. [2008-08-31 21:10:00] * [PB]Teilya pulls out a controller with a big red button and presses it.
  50. [2008-08-31 21:10:10] <[PB]Teilya> ALL MISSILES AWAY NYA~
  51. [2008-08-31 21:10:19] <[GM]Ludwig> It's all right, Cerise. I took their flight into consideration when... uh... hang on a second.
  52. [2008-08-31 21:10:47] * [gtz]Mary turns the...page? scrolls up?
  53. [2008-08-31 21:11:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya... we have no more missiles.
  54. [2008-08-31 21:11:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Remember?
  55. [2008-08-31 21:11:58] * [PB]Teilya looks confuse
  56. [2008-08-31 21:12:13] <[PB]Teilya> We don't nya? Then what are those that's flying out?
  57. [2008-08-31 21:12:17] <[GM]Ludwig> You fired them all off weeks ago.
  58. [2008-08-31 21:12:25] * [GM]Ludwig checks out the window.
  59. [2008-08-31 21:12:47] <[GM]Tetro> Sure enough, five missiles are leaving their bays and heading towards the west.
  60. [2008-08-31 21:12:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh. Well.
  61. [2008-08-31 21:13:09] * [GM]Ludwig turns back to Teilya, face stern.
  62. [2008-08-31 21:13:19] <[GM]Ludwig> In any case, I did not order their launch.
  63. [2008-08-31 21:13:36] * [PB]Teilya flinches, then scratches her ears and pouts.
  64. [2008-08-31 21:13:47] <[GM]Ludwig> We had no evidence that the massing insects were even aware of our presence, but they certainly are now.
  65. [2008-08-31 21:14:19] <[GM]Ludwig> You must control your impulses. We all must, or we will never survive.
  66. [2008-08-31 21:14:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's lovely, master, we're all going to die! Isn't it grand!"
  67. [2008-08-31 21:14:38] * [PB]Teilya curls into a ball, biting her lips lightly.
  68. [2008-08-31 21:14:47] <[PB]Teilya> Sorry master...
  69. [2008-08-31 21:14:49] * [gtz]Mary turns the page
  70. [2008-08-31 21:15:31] * [PYG]Cerise keeping an eye on the distant insect cloud watches as it starts to grow much larger.
  71. [2008-08-31 21:15:51] * [PYG]Cerise quickly attempts communication to the War Room again.
  72. [2008-08-31 21:15:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, I swear, should I live to be a hundred, I will never understand your sense of humor.
  73. [2008-08-31 21:16:27] <[PYG]Cerise> "Master! They definitely know we're here now! They're moving faster!"
  74. [2008-08-31 21:16:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "You probably won't master, but keep working hard! Oh ho ho ho!"
  75. [2008-08-31 21:16:37] <[GM]Ludwig> But, it is good that you have one. God knows we need such things in these times.
  76. [2008-08-31 21:17:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, can you confirm this?
  77. [2008-08-31 21:18:02] * [PB]Teilya looks up downtrodden, but nods and pulls out the satellites screen.
  78. [2008-08-31 21:18:20] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~, they're closing in fast, now about 63 miles out...
  79. [2008-08-31 21:18:25] <[GM]Ludwig> What?!
  80. [2008-08-31 21:18:27] <[GM]Ludwig> So fast...
  81. [2008-08-31 21:18:34] <[GM]Ludwig> This must be a new breed...
  82. [2008-08-31 21:18:43] * [GM]Ludwig chews on a thumbnail, visibly anxious.
  83. [2008-08-31 21:19:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... will the missiles still hit their target?
  84. [2008-08-31 21:19:10] * [gtz]Mary stops reading
  85. [2008-08-31 21:19:31] * [PB]Teilya looks confident and pats her (lack of) chest.
  86. [2008-08-31 21:19:41] <[PB]Teilya> Of course they will! I made them!
  87. [2008-08-31 21:19:51] * [GM]Ludwig smiles uneasily.
  88. [2008-08-31 21:19:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "We really are doomed no! Oh ho ho!"
  89. [2008-08-31 21:19:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Of course. At least that's good news.
  90. [2008-08-31 21:20:01] <[gtz]Mary> How long until connection?
  91. [2008-08-31 21:20:01] <[Nom]Alexis> *now
  92. [2008-08-31 21:21:12] <[gtz]Mary> There it was. I heard it.
  93. [2008-08-31 21:21:24] <[PYG]Cerise> "Missile hit confirmed."
  94. [2008-08-31 21:21:42] * [PB]Teilya stares at screen, then beams at Ludwig.
  95. [2008-08-31 21:21:48] * [GM]Ludwig sighs again, some of the pressure relieved.
  96. [2008-08-31 21:21:56] <[PB]Teilya> ALL HITS! BUGS DOWN 20%!
  97. [2008-08-31 21:21:57] <[PYG]Cerise> "Not all of them went down though. And it looks like that just pissed them off even more!"
  98. [2008-08-31 21:22:05] * [GM]Ludwig shrugs.
  99. [2008-08-31 21:22:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, we knew it couldn't be that easy.
  100. [2008-08-31 21:22:26] * [GM]Ludwig presses another button on the intercom, opening the Fortress channel.
  101. [2008-08-31 21:22:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Battle stations! Incoming bug swarm!
  102. [2008-08-31 21:22:46] <[GM]Ludwig> All civilians to the shelters!
  103. [2008-08-31 21:23:15] <[GM]Tetro> Sirens begin going off. You know the drill.
  104. [2008-08-31 21:23:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll go...make tea. This place could use more tea."
  105. [2008-08-31 21:23:35] * [gtz]Mary puts away her book
  106. [2008-08-31 21:23:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Not now, Alexis!
  107. [2008-08-31 21:23:51] * [PYG]Cerise stands up from her position, dusting off her uniform.
  108. [2008-08-31 21:23:58] * [Nom]Alexis frowns
  109. [2008-08-31 21:24:05] <[GM]Ludwig> I need you to take over Mary's station for now.
  110. [2008-08-31 21:24:13] <[GM]Ludwig> Tea can wait until we've survived the assault.
  111. [2008-08-31 21:24:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "No one appreciates good tea during Apocalypses these days"
  112. [2008-08-31 21:24:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, I want you out on the wall with Cerise.
  113. [2008-08-31 21:24:39] <[gtz]Mary> Yes, sir.
  114. [2008-08-31 21:24:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Your spells are going to be essential.
  115. [2008-08-31 21:24:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, but first... ETA on the swarm?
  116. [2008-08-31 21:25:04] * [PB]Teilya looks at Ludwig with tails swinging.
  117. [2008-08-31 21:25:27] <[PB]Teilya> Oh! ETA is...24 minutes and 51 seconds!
  118. [2008-08-31 21:25:43] <[gtz]Mary> Cerise?
  119. [2008-08-31 21:25:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Time enough...
  120. [2008-08-31 21:25:44] * [PYG]Cerise quickly heads for the stairs by the side of the outer fortress walls.
  121. [2008-08-31 21:25:53] * [Nom]Alexis mumbles
  122. [2008-08-31 21:25:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "You never know, maybe the bugs just want to come in and have a chat over snacks. It can happen"
  123. [2008-08-31 21:26:00] * [gtz]Mary follows her footsteps
  124. [2008-08-31 21:26:10] <[PYG]Cerise> "Yes, Mary, I read you."
  125. [2008-08-31 21:26:15] * [Nom]Alexis takes the sonar grudgingly
  126. [2008-08-31 21:26:39] <[gtz]Mary> Just making sure where you are.
  127. [2008-08-31 21:26:44] * [GM]Ludwig sits in his chair again, closes his eyes, and concentrates.
  128. [2008-08-31 21:27:08] * [GM]Ludwig raises his hands, and images appear in the air around him, showing various parts of the fortress and the wasteland outside.
  129. [2008-08-31 21:27:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ooh, master, I love your serious look"
  130. [2008-08-31 21:27:51] * [GM]Ludwig opens his eyes and looks over the images, ignoring Alexis' flirtations for the moment.
  131. [2008-08-31 21:28:33] <[GM]Ludwig> The villagers are responding quite well... they've really take those drills to heart.
  132. [2008-08-31 21:28:46] * [PB]Teilya push her glasses back into place and begins to play with a ball of wool.
  133. [2008-08-31 21:29:01] <[PYG]Cerise> "Oh, Mary! There you are!" She says, barely able to hold back a smile at the sight of the girl.
  134. [2008-08-31 21:29:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's what they look forward to every day. Oh ho ho!"
  135. [2008-08-31 21:29:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Now, we wait...
  136. [2008-08-31 21:30:01] * [gtz]Mary reaches out her hand
  137. [2008-08-31 21:30:19] * [Nom]Alexis takes out her knitting
  138. [2008-08-31 21:30:49] * [PYG]Cerise takes Mary's hand, while trying to stay calm.
  139. [2008-08-31 21:30:53] * [GM]Ludwig closes his eyes again, mentally checking over the defensive spells around the perimeter.
  140. [2008-08-31 21:30:54] <[PYG]Cerise> Okay, this way.
  141. [2008-08-31 21:32:06] * [gtz]Mary smiles, allows Cerise to lead her
  142. [2008-08-31 21:32:11] * [PYG]Cerise leads Mary to the western wall of the fortress.
  143. [2008-08-31 21:32:20] <[PYG]Cerise> We're here.
  144. [2008-08-31 21:33:05] <[gtz]Mary> What do you see?
  145. [2008-08-31 21:36:50] * [gtz]Mary gets on her knees and prays
  146. [2008-08-31 21:37:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Let's hope Mary can match your missiles...
  147. [2008-08-31 21:37:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh dear, Mary's casting?"
  148. [2008-08-31 21:38:08] * [Nom]Alexis takes off headphones
  149. [2008-08-31 21:38:14] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, yes... why?
  150. [2008-08-31 21:39:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "Just wondering"
  151. [2008-08-31 21:39:14] * [Nom]Alexis goes back to knitting
  152. [2008-08-31 21:39:15] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah... yes, the thunder can be quite... loud.
  153. [2008-08-31 21:39:40] * [gtz]Mary prays slightly more audibly
  154. [2008-08-31 21:39:43] * [PB]Teilya goes back to playing with her ball of wool.
  155. [2008-08-31 21:40:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, put that away. I need you to keep an eye on the swarm.
  156. [2008-08-31 21:40:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Report to me their status after Mary's spell.
  157. [2008-08-31 21:41:05] * [PB]Teilya looks up to Ludwig, then back to the ball, then up again, then back. She then starts tearing up, but wipes them away.
  158. [2008-08-31 21:41:10] * [PYG]Cerise mounts her high caliber DSR-1 on the wall while pounding in a magazine. She flips off the caps on the scope and takes aim.
  159. [2008-08-31 21:41:20] <[PB]Teilya> Okay master...
  160. [2008-08-31 21:41:25] <[gtz]Mary> "When the Lord your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess and drives out before you many nations . . . then you must destroy them totally. Make no treaty with them, and show them no mercy!
  161. [2008-08-31 21:41:59] <[GM]Tetro> The sky above begins rumbling ominously...
  162. [2008-08-31 21:42:07] * [Nom]Alexis flinches
  163. [2008-08-31 21:45:03] * [gtz]Mary slowly rises up, and faces the heavens
  164. [2008-08-31 21:45:20] * [PYG]Cerise eyes her targets and pulls the trigger. The rifle unleashes a round into the warm piercing through a few of the flying insects, pieces of their exoskeletons and fluids exploding in the air, disrupting the flight path of a few more giant bugs.
  165. [2008-08-31 21:45:40] <[GM]Tetro> The clouds melt away as a single, giant bolt of lightning burns through and speeds towards the ground. It doesn't quite hit, however, splitting in mid-air into a multitude of smaller forks, each one striking down a single insect.
  166. [2008-08-31 21:45:56] * [PB]Teilya flinches and hides behind her master when the spell is casting, then takes a glance at her screen when it ends.
  167. [2008-08-31 21:46:05] * [Nom]Alexis visibly cringes, but continues knitting
  168. [2008-08-31 21:46:39] * [gtz]Mary closes her eyes and silently embraces the Lord's judgement
  169. [2008-08-31 21:46:40] <[GM]Tetro> All this happens in a single instant, followed by a deafening *KABOOM!*
  170. [2008-08-31 21:46:54] * [GM]Ludwig flinches at the sound, so loud even at this distance.
  171. [2008-08-31 21:46:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, report!
  172. [2008-08-31 21:47:05] <[PB]Teilya> Ah! DAMAGE REPORT! THE SPELL IS SUPER EFFECTIVE! BUGS HAVE SUSTAINED MASSIVE DAMAGE AND IS NOW DOWN TO 20%!
  173. [2008-08-31 21:47:12] * [PYG]Cerise moves her crosshairs again and takes aim.
  174. [2008-08-31 21:47:26] * [GM]Ludwig almost laughs.
  175. [2008-08-31 21:47:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Praise be to God.
  176. [2008-08-31 21:47:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "I don't like it when she does that."
  177. [2008-08-31 21:48:00] * [Nom]Alexis goes back to sonar
  178. [2008-08-31 21:48:28] * [gtz]Mary Did it work?
  179. [2008-08-31 21:50:58] * [PB]Teilya stares at screen again and then perks up and looks back to Ludwig.
  180. [2008-08-31 21:51:14] <[PYG]Cerise> Yes, Mary, they're all down!
  181. [2008-08-31 21:51:26] <[PB]Teilya> MASTER! NEW REPORT! CERISE JUST TOOK THE STRAGGLERS DOWN!
  182. [2008-08-31 21:51:27] <[gtz]Mary> Whew. God's favor always puts a burden on me.
  183. [2008-08-31 21:51:44] * [GM]Ludwig smiles and dismisses the images around him.
  184. [2008-08-31 21:51:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, I think I'd like that tea, now.
  185. [2008-08-31 21:52:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sure thing, master, I'll go RETURN YOU TO DARKNE--I mean, make that tea. Toodles!"
  186. [2008-08-31 21:53:06] * [Nom]Alexis skips out for teatime
  187. [2008-08-31 21:53:34] * [PYG]Cerise resists the urge to suddenly embrace Mary and instead focuses her attention picking up her rifle and shouldering it.
  188. [2008-08-31 21:54:15] * [GM]Ludwig opens the Fortress channel again.
  189. [2008-08-31 21:54:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Approaching swarm has been wiped out! Stand down from battle stations! Good work, everyone!
  190. [2008-08-31 21:55:50] * [gtz]Mary waits near the exit.
  191. [2008-08-31 21:56:05] <[PYG]Cerise> Shall we head back inside then?
  192. [2008-08-31 21:56:32] * [gtz]Mary takes a deep breath, smiles and nods
  193. [2008-08-31 21:56:52] <[PYG]Cerise> All right, take my hand then.
  194. [2008-08-31 21:57:20] * [gtz]Mary takes Cerise's hand
  195. [2008-08-31 21:59:19] <[PYG]Cerise> I'll return you to the war room then. Come on.
  196. [2008-08-31 21:59:54] * [gtz]Mary walks with Cerise, though more slowly this time
  197. [2008-08-31 22:02:02] * [PYG]Cerise steals a glance at Mary and then looking away before speaking.
  198. [2008-08-31 22:02:21] <[PYG]Cerise> You're...not tired, are you?
  199. [2008-08-31 22:02:42] <[gtz]Mary> A little, yes.
  200. [2008-08-31 22:02:50] <[PYG]Cerise> I...I can carry you, if you'd, um, like...?
  201. [2008-08-31 22:03:42] <[gtz]Mary> hahaha, that's not necessary. I can walk on my own just fine. Thank you for the courtesy.
  202. [2008-08-31 22:04:04] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah...Is that so.
  203. [2008-08-31 22:04:23] * [PYG]Cerise looks down, a little disappointed.
  204. [2008-08-31 22:07:41] * [Nom]Alexis cackles while making tea
  205. [2008-08-31 22:08:31] * [PB]Teilya pulls out the ball of wool and starts playing with it again.
  206. [2008-08-31 22:09:38] * [Nom]Alexis carries a large tray with a pot, cups, and biscuits down the hall, humming a 60s show tune as she does so.
  207. [2008-08-31 22:10:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "MORTALS, YOUR TEA IS AT HAND--ahem."
  208. [2008-08-31 22:11:00] * [Nom]Alexis pulls out a little glass bell and rings it
  209. [2008-08-31 22:11:08] <[Nom]Alexis> "Tea time!"
  210. [2008-08-31 22:11:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, the tea. Excellent.
  211. [2008-08-31 22:11:23] <[PYG]Cerise> Ooh! We're just in time!
  212. [2008-08-31 22:11:39] * [PB]Teilya perks up at the mention of tea.
  213. [2008-08-31 22:11:45] <[PB]Teilya> OH YAY! TEA~!
  214. [2008-08-31 22:12:16] * [gtz]Mary smiles gingerly, allows Cerise to lead her to a seat.
  215. [2008-08-31 22:12:35] * [PYG]Cerise leads Mary to a seat, reluctant at first to let go of her hand.
  216. [2008-08-31 22:14:42] * [GM]Ludwig sniffs the air as he waits for the tea to be poured.
  217. [2008-08-31 22:14:43] * [gtz]Mary bows her head, and recites a quiet prayer before drinking
  218. [2008-08-31 22:14:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Smells good.
  219. [2008-08-31 22:15:47] * [Nom]Alexis serves tea while chuckling to herself
  220. [2008-08-31 22:15:52] * [PB]Teilya jumps onto an empty seat and wiggles her tail and ears, waiting patiently for the tea.
  221. [2008-08-31 22:16:11] * [PYG]Cerise takes her own seat not far from Mary, setting her rifle by her legs. She pretends to scratch her nose as she inhales the scent of Mary's hands on her palms.
  222. [2008-08-31 22:16:46] * [GM]Ludwig leans over and takes a biscuit, dipping it in his teacup before taking a bite.
  223. [2008-08-31 22:16:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Mmm...
  224. [2008-08-31 22:17:47] * [PB]Teilya quickly snatches a biscuit and starts munching it.
  225. [2008-08-31 22:17:50] * [GM]Ludwig starts to say something, but pauses. He looks around the room at everyone enjoying the tea and closes his mouth again.
  226. [2008-08-31 22:17:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "Is it good master? I made it with the SCREAMING SOULS OF THE DAMNE--I mean, love."
  227. [2008-08-31 22:18:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm? Oh, yes. Thank you, Alexis.
  228. [2008-08-31 22:18:28] <[PB]Teilya> IT'S AWESOME ALEXIS!
  229. [2008-08-31 22:18:38] * [GM]Ludwig finishes off his biscuit and sips the tea slowly.
  230. [2008-08-31 22:18:46] * [gtz]Mary frowns for a moment, then smiles
  231. [2008-08-31 22:19:01] <[gtz]Mary> The hands that prepared it are truly blessed. Thank you, Alexis.
  232. [2008-08-31 22:19:55] * [PYG]Cerise takes a sip of her tea while quickly glancing at Mary. Ah...the lips that kiss the edge of that cup...If only she could feel them on her own.
  233. [2008-08-31 22:20:16] * [Nom]Alexis looks at her hands in puzzlement
  234. [2008-08-31 22:20:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, I probably should wash these later"
  235. [2008-08-31 22:22:59] * [GM]Ludwig stares into his cup pensively.
  236. [2008-08-31 22:23:55] * [PB]Teilya finishes her biscuit and drinks the tea, then notices Ludwig staring into his cup.
  237. [2008-08-31 22:24:28] <[PB]Teilya> Master? What are you looking at?
  238. [2008-08-31 22:24:29] * [GM]Ludwig blinks, coming out of himself.
  239. [2008-08-31 22:24:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm? Oh... I was just... thinking.
  240. [2008-08-31 22:24:33] * [PB]Teilya scratches her head in confusion.
  241. [2008-08-31 22:24:42] <[PB]Teilya> Thinking? About what nya~?
  242. [2008-08-31 22:24:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ooh, master, you know I can't resist your thinking face."
  243. [2008-08-31 22:24:56] * [gtz]Mary feels around for a biscuit...
  244. [2008-08-31 22:25:22] <[PYG]Cerise> Oh, let me get that for you, Mary...
  245. [2008-08-31 22:25:48] <[gtz]Mary> Oh, thank you.
  246. [2008-08-31 22:26:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, it's unlikely we'll have to worry about any large-scale swarms for a little while, so...
  247. [2008-08-31 22:26:42] <[GM]Ludwig> The tea reminded me, how are we doing on supplies?
  248. [2008-08-31 22:27:00] * [PYG]Cerise snatches a biscuit off the plate and moves her position a little closer to Mary.
  249. [2008-08-31 22:27:14] <[PYG]Cerise> Say, "Ah" &#9825;
  250. [2008-08-31 22:27:21] <[gtz]Mary> Ah?
  251. [2008-08-31 22:27:53] * [gtz]Mary feels for her arm, finds the biscuit in her hand and takes it
  252. [2008-08-31 22:27:57] <[gtz]Mary> Thanks.
  253. [2008-08-31 22:28:14] * [gtz]Mary sips tea and eats biscuit
  254. [2008-08-31 22:29:08] * [PYG]Cerise is caught off guard by Mary's sudden action and is frozen for a moment holding a biscuit that is no longer there.
  255. [2008-08-31 22:29:36] * [PYG]Cerise goes back to sipping her tea thinking, "Next time for sure..."
  256. [2008-08-31 22:30:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "I wouldn't worry about supplies...we still have plenty of villagers. Oh ho ho ho!"
  257. [2008-08-31 22:30:26] * [gtz]Mary cringes slightly
  258. [2008-08-31 22:30:33] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~? What does villagers have to do with supplies?
  259. [2008-08-31 22:30:38] * [GM]Ludwig looks up at Alexis with a shocked expression, then relaxes and shakes his head.
  260. [2008-08-31 22:30:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Honestly, those jokes of yours...
  261. [2008-08-31 22:30:54] <[GM]Ludwig> Never mind, Teilya.
  262. [2008-08-31 22:31:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "We'll tell you when you're a bit older, deary."
  263. [2008-08-31 22:31:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, you were just in the kitchen. Seriously, how are we for food?
  264. [2008-08-31 22:31:22] <[GM]Ludwig> And Cerise, your ammunition?
  265. [2008-08-31 22:32:51] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah! Um...About one or two more days worth of rounds, Master.
  266. [2008-08-31 22:33:00] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm...
  267. [2008-08-31 22:33:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "We have a side of 4 crates of tea, a leg of ham, and some mold in the bottom of the fridge."
  268. [2008-08-31 22:33:44] <[GM]Ludwig> I was afraid of that...
  269. [2008-08-31 22:34:05] <[GM]Ludwig> All right. We'll have to mount an expedition.
  270. [2008-08-31 22:34:21] * [PB]Teilya moans and pouts.
  271. [2008-08-31 22:34:27] <[PYG]Cerise> O-out there?
  272. [2008-08-31 22:34:35] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, I know you have to rest after your prayers, so you'll stay behind.
  273. [2008-08-31 22:34:38] <[PB]Teilya> Aw...but I don't want to go~
  274. [2008-08-31 22:34:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oooh, master, say 'expedition' again."
  275. [2008-08-31 22:34:55] <[PYG]Cerise> Master! I can stay with Mary!
  276. [2008-08-31 22:35:03] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise, Teilya, I'm afraid it will have to be up to you. I understand your hesitation, but...
  277. [2008-08-31 22:35:22] <[PB]Teilya> Cats don't like to move~...
  278. [2008-08-31 22:35:24] * [gtz]Mary remains silent
  279. [2008-08-31 22:35:32] <[PB]Teilya> Why can't we just buy from the net~?
  280. [2008-08-31 22:35:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya... please, try to understand. The world has changed.
  281. [2008-08-31 22:35:56] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah...As you wish, Master.
  282. [2008-08-31 22:36:03] * [PB]Teilya is confused.
  283. [2008-08-31 22:36:06] <[GM]Ludwig> I wish it were not so, but...
  284. [2008-08-31 22:36:22] <[PB]Teilya> Changed? But you're still here, and the building is still standing? What's changed?
  285. [2008-08-31 22:36:28] * [PYG]Cerise sighs, a little disappointed.
  286. [2008-08-31 22:37:37] * [GM]Ludwig stands up and crosses over to Teilya's seat. He regards her sadly for a moment, then reaches up with one hand and presses her head into his chest, stroking the hair between her ears gently.
  287. [2008-08-31 22:37:40] <[gtz]Mary> I'll keep you both in my prayers. God will protect you.
  288. [2008-08-31 22:38:01] * [PYG]Cerise takes another sip of tea once again.
  289. [2008-08-31 22:38:10] <[PYG]Cerise> When are we to depart then, Master?
  290. [2008-08-31 22:38:23] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm sorry, Teilya... part of me wishes you didn't have to understand, but... this is for your own good.
  291. [2008-08-31 22:39:04] * [PB]Teilya purrs in comfort and looks up with innocent eyes.
  292. [2008-08-31 22:39:11] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?
  293. [2008-08-31 22:39:30] * [GM]Ludwig smiles down at Teilya's face, then turns to answer Cerise.
  294. [2008-08-31 22:39:45] <[GM]Ludwig> At once. Teilya, follow me.
  295. [2008-08-31 22:40:10] * [GM]Ludwig takes the catgirl's hand and leads her out of the war room, on down the hall.
  296. [2008-08-31 22:40:38] * [PB]Teilya purrs and bounces cheerily as Ludwig leads her out of the room.
  297. [2008-08-31 22:41:00] * [PYG]Cerise finishes the rest of her tea and places the empty tea cup on the table.
  298. [2008-08-31 22:42:58] * [PYG]Cerise shoulders her rifle and gets up off her seat and after Master Ludwig.
  299. [2008-08-31 22:44:51] <[GM]Tetro> Ludwig leads you down several levels, into the basement of the fortress. Taking a key out of a pocket, he unlocks a door and opens it.
  300. [2008-08-31 22:45:24] <[GM]Tetro> Inside is a stone room, the walls, floors and ceilings painted with strange runes and formula that seem to move when you're not looking directly at them.
  301. [2008-08-31 22:46:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise, I know you've been here before, but I'll explain for Teilya's benefit.
  302. [2008-08-31 22:47:02] * [PYG]Cerise nods.
  303. [2008-08-31 22:47:32] <[GM]Ludwig> This is the Beetleoven Travel Chamber, designed and created by my great-grandfather.
  304. [2008-08-31 22:47:51] * [PB]Teilya just looks curiously at the runes, trying to poke them, then turns around when Ludwig speaks.
  305. [2008-08-31 22:48:45] <[GM]Ludwig> You remember the old science-fiction stories? The transporter rooms?
  306. [2008-08-31 22:49:36] * [PB]Teilya have her eyes lights up in recognition and nods furiously.
  307. [2008-08-31 22:49:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, this isn't *quite* the same thing, but close enough.
  308. [2008-08-31 22:50:24] <[GM]Ludwig> You and Cerise are going to get inside, and I'm going to send you out into the world. Somewhere far away.
  309. [2008-08-31 22:50:31] <[PB]Teilya> AH! I see! So this is the transporter room that'll bring us to the mart!
  310. [2008-08-31 22:51:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Once you've procured the supplies, all you have to do to come back is find the place where you arrived. You should see some of these same runes on the ground.
  311. [2008-08-31 22:51:48] <[PB]Teilya> Okay! Gotcha nya~!
  312. [2008-08-31 22:51:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Once there, just call out my name. I'll hear you and cast the return spell.
  313. [2008-08-31 22:52:06] * [PB]Teilya salutes with a wiggle of her tail, then bounces into the room.
  314. [2008-08-31 22:52:26] * [PYG]Cerise grimaces a bit at the mention of the return spell.
  315. [2008-08-31 22:52:28] * [GM]Ludwig turns to Cerise.
  316. [2008-08-31 22:52:37] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah, y-yes, Master!
  317. [2008-08-31 22:52:49] <[GM]Ludwig> This is the first time she'll have been outside the fortress since the Advent. I... I'm worried how she might react.
  318. [2008-08-31 22:52:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Please, keep a close eye on her for me.
  319. [2008-08-31 22:53:04] <[PYG]Cerise> As you wish, Master.
  320. [2008-08-31 22:53:09] * [PYG]Cerise bows slightly.
  321. [2008-08-31 22:53:13] * [GM]Ludwig nods.
  322. [2008-08-31 22:55:38] * [PYG]Cerise enters the room.
  323. [2008-08-31 22:55:53] * [GM]Ludwig closes the door after Cerise enters, then places both hands on its surface.
  324. [2008-08-31 22:56:19] * [GM]Ludwig begins murmuring softly...
  325. [2008-08-31 22:56:41] <[PYG]Cerise> Brace yourself, Miss Teilya.
  326. [2008-08-31 22:56:54] <[GM]Tetro> Inside the room, those runes and such are definitely moving, now. A low-pitched hum builds gradually as the air seems to pulse around you, until...
  327. [2008-08-31 22:57:13] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Ooooh~! They're moving!
  328. [2008-08-31 22:58:18] <[GM]Tetro> Flash!
  329. [2008-08-31 22:58:52] <[GM]Tetro> ...leave off of them for now.
  330. [2008-08-31 22:59:04] <[GM]Tetro> Action moves temporarily back to the war room, with Mary and Alexis.
  331. [2008-08-31 23:00:51] * [gtz]Mary takes up the empty dishes and puts them away
  332. [2008-08-31 23:04:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Why, Mary, I love the way you keep your outfit."
  333. [2008-08-31 23:05:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "How do you keep the material so...silky smooth."
  334. [2008-08-31 23:05:14] <[gtz]Mary> Oh? Why, thank you.
  335. [2008-08-31 23:07:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "I just...can't...RESIST"
  336. [2008-08-31 23:08:26] * [gtz]Mary turns toward her, looking serious.
  337. [2008-08-31 23:15:20] * [gtz]Mary turns back around, ignoring that odd statement
  338. [2008-08-31 23:17:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "YES...JUST LISTEN TO THE SOUND OF MY VOICE..."
  339. [2008-08-31 23:18:13] <[gtz]Mary> ugh...
  340. [2008-08-31 23:18:54] * [gtz]Mary feeling weak, nearly loses balance
  341. [2008-08-31 23:19:25] * [gtz]Mary feels her forehead
  342. [2008-08-31 23:19:37] <[gtz]Mary> oh, lord... It's so warm in here...
  343. [2008-08-31 23:19:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "THAT'S RIGHT...YOU SHOULD SHARE...GENEROSITY IS THE WAY"
  344. [2008-08-31 23:20:11] <[Nom]Alexis> *yoink*
  345. [2008-08-31 23:21:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, darling, thank you. The material is FABULOUS. Just sit right there while I take it for a spin"
  346. [2008-08-31 23:21:43] * [Nom]Alexis takes her blouse and skirt, and leaves the war room
  347. [2008-08-31 23:22:13] * [Nom]Alexis goes looking for Ludwig
  348. [2008-08-31 23:22:35] * [gtz]Mary lays on the ground, panting profusely, unable to get a grasp on what's happening
  349. [2008-08-31 23:24:22] * [GM]Ludwig comes up the stairs from the basement and starts back down the hall towards the war room.
  350. [2008-08-31 23:24:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, master! Ah, there you are. If Mary asks, tell her it's because it's summer."
  351. [2008-08-31 23:24:38] <[GM]Ludwig> Summer?
  352. [2008-08-31 23:24:57] * [Nom]Alexis shoves the clothes into Ludwig's hands, and skips off
  353. [2008-08-31 23:25:24] * [GM]Ludwig looks from the clothing in his hands, then after the departing maid, completely confused.
  354. [2008-08-31 23:25:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh...
  355. [2008-08-31 23:25:28] * [gtz]Mary wakes up from her trance
  356. [2008-08-31 23:25:42] * [GM]Ludwig shakes his head and continues on to the war room.
  357. [2008-08-31 23:25:57] <[gtz]Mary> Oh! So cold, all of a sudden...
  358. [2008-08-31 23:26:19] * [GM]Ludwig turns the corner and sees Mary, just standing up. His face turns bright red.
  359. [2008-08-31 23:26:36] <[GM]Ludwig> M-Mary?! Why're y--
  360. [2008-08-31 23:27:04] * [GM]Ludwig looks at the clothing Alexis handed him again. His eyes go wide, and that red? It's all over his body, now.
  361. [2008-08-31 23:27:06] * [gtz]Mary What in God's name-
  362. [2008-08-31 23:27:40] <[gtz]Mary> S-sir!? What happened? Where are my clothes!?
  363. [2008-08-31 23:27:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... er... it's summer!!
  364. [2008-08-31 23:28:05] * [gtz]Mary walks toward Ludwig's voice, hand out
  365. [2008-08-31 23:28:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Because it's summer!!
  366. [2008-08-31 23:28:23] <[GM]Ludwig> I, uh...
  367. [2008-08-31 23:28:34] * [GM]Ludwig tries to keep his eyes on Mary's face, but doesn't do a very good job.
  368. [2008-08-31 23:29:02] * [Nom]Alexis makes an entrance
  369. [2008-08-31 23:29:02] * [gtz]Mary reaches Ludwig, first touching his face...
  370. [2008-08-31 23:29:19] * [gtz]Mary and brings her hand down to her clothes
  371. [2008-08-31 23:29:19] * [Nom]Alexis waits until Mary has a realisation, then...
  372. [2008-08-31 23:29:25] * [GM]Ludwig stiffens at Mary's touch.
  373. [2008-08-31 23:29:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, master, you're so bold!"
  374. [2008-08-31 23:29:44] <[gtz]Mary> W-what is this!?
  375. [2008-08-31 23:29:58] * [GM]Ludwig whirls around to face Alexis.
  376. [2008-08-31 23:30:02] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm whaaaaat?!
  377. [2008-08-31 23:30:06] <[GM]Ludwig> N-no!
  378. [2008-08-31 23:30:13] <[GM]Ludwig> I... you...
  379. [2008-08-31 23:30:16] <[gtz]Mary> A devil has gotten into you, Mr. Beetleoven!
  380. [2008-08-31 23:30:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Congratulations, Mary!" *sniffs* "I never thought I'd see the day."
  381. [2008-08-31 23:30:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "You're a man now, master!"
  382. [2008-08-31 23:30:45] * [gtz]Mary snatches her clothes and bristly walks off, tripping at the corner
  383. [2008-08-31 23:30:52] * [GM]Ludwig stops speaking altogether and just stares from Mary to Alexis, slack-jawed.
  384. [2008-08-31 23:31:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Buh...
  385. [2008-08-31 23:31:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, wait up Mary, you'll have to tell me all about it."
  386. [2008-08-31 23:31:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Whuh... what just... !!
  387. [2008-08-31 23:31:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary!
  388. [2008-08-31 23:31:43] * [gtz]Mary audibly slams a door shut
  389. [2008-08-31 23:31:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, wait!
  390. [2008-08-31 23:31:59] * [GM]Ludwig runs out after her.
  391. [2008-08-31 23:32:38] * [gtz]Mary quickly puts on her clothes
  392. [2008-08-31 23:32:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary!!
  393. [2008-08-31 23:32:55] * [GM]Ludwig knocks frantically on the door.
  394. [2008-08-31 23:32:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, please!
  395. [2008-08-31 23:33:06] <[GM]Ludwig> It... it's not how it seems!
  396. [2008-08-31 23:33:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "Tsk, master, you have to consider a girl's feelings, you know. Can't rush things."
  397. [2008-08-31 23:33:12] * [gtz]Mary opens the door.
  398. [2008-08-31 23:33:24] * [GM]Ludwig turns to Alexis, face unreadable.
  399. [2008-08-31 23:33:31] <[GM]Ludwig> You... you go clean the mold out of the fridge.
  400. [2008-08-31 23:33:33] * [gtz]Mary Then how does it seem, Mr. Beetleoven?
  401. [2008-08-31 23:33:40] <[GM]Ludwig> And take your time!
  402. [2008-08-31 23:33:40] * [Nom]Alexis whistles
  403. [2008-08-31 23:33:49] <[GM]Ludwig> GO!
  404. [2008-08-31 23:33:49] <[gtz]Mary> ...
  405. [2008-08-31 23:33:57] * [gtz]Mary leaves
  406. [2008-08-31 23:34:01] * [Nom]Alexis skirts off
  407. [2008-08-31 23:34:03] * [GM]Ludwig chases Mary.
  408. [2008-08-31 23:34:15] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, no! You have to listen to me!
  409. [2008-08-31 23:34:40] <[GM]Ludwig> She... Alexis, she just handed me your clothes!
  410. [2008-08-31 23:34:53] <[GM]Ludwig> I had no idea where they came from, and then I saw you in your... uh...
  411. [2008-08-31 23:34:59] <[Nom]Alexis> *from down the hallway* "Master, you have to take responsibility!"
  412. [2008-08-31 23:35:13] <[gtz]Mary> I suppose she just spirited them away and handed them to you, huh?
  413. [2008-08-31 23:35:13] * [GM]Ludwig falters and blushes again.
  414. [2008-08-31 23:35:31] <[GM]Ludwig> W-well, I don't know... maybe...?
  415. [2008-08-31 23:35:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Weren't you there?
  416. [2008-08-31 23:36:10] <[gtz]Mary> I'm aware of your magic, Mr. Beetleoven. I would suggest that you cease taking liberties with it.
  417. [2008-08-31 23:36:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Magic? N-no, I swear, I've never gotten that spell to work properl-- I mean, uh...
  418. [2008-08-31 23:37:16] * [gtz]Mary sighs
  419. [2008-08-31 23:37:40] * [GM]Ludwig falls to the ground and prostrates himself before the maid.
  420. [2008-08-31 23:37:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Please! I'm begging you!
  421. [2008-08-31 23:37:52] <[GM]Ludwig> I... I need you, Mary!
  422. [2008-08-31 23:38:00] <[gtz]Mary> I better see you at Church Sunday morning. You've got some repenting to do.
  423. [2008-08-31 23:38:14] <[GM]Ludwig> Y... yes, of course!
  424. [2008-08-31 23:38:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Bright and early!
  425. [2008-08-31 23:39:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "so it's a date!"
  426. [2008-08-31 23:39:16] * [Nom]Alexis flees
  427. [2008-08-31 23:39:17] * [GM]Ludwig is almost crying from relief. So, she's not leaving.
  428. [2008-08-31 23:39:42] <[gtz]Mary> You best check on Celise and Teilya, Mr. Beetleoven.
  429. [2008-08-31 23:39:55] <[GM]Ludwig> I... yes!
  430. [2008-08-31 23:40:09] * [GM]Ludwig scrambles to his feet and starts towards the war room, but stops and turns around.
  431. [2008-08-31 23:40:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... you, uh...
  432. [2008-08-31 23:40:14] <[GM]Ludwig> ...
  433. [2008-08-31 23:40:20] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary?
  434. [2008-08-31 23:40:42] <[gtz]Mary> Yes, what is it?
  435. [2008-08-31 23:40:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Um.
  436. [2008-08-31 23:40:47] <[GM]Ludwig> You, uh...
  437. [2008-08-31 23:41:02] <[GM]Ludwig> You wouldn't, perhaps, like to have dinner in my room tonight, would you?
  438. [2008-08-31 23:41:09] <[GM]Ludwig> As, uh, a small apology?
  439. [2008-08-31 23:41:14] <[gtz]Mary> ...
  440. [2008-08-31 23:41:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Please?
  441. [2008-08-31 23:42:03] <[gtz]Mary> I've already made arrangements with other members of the crew. Perhaps you'd like to eat with us, Mr. Beetleoven?
  442. [2008-08-31 23:42:25] <[GM]Ludwig> ...oh? Oh. Um. With everyone else?
  443. [2008-08-31 23:42:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh. S-sure. That sounds great.
  444. [2008-08-31 23:42:57] <[gtz]Mary> Good.
  445. [2008-08-31 23:43:06] * [gtz]Mary turns around
  446. [2008-08-31 23:43:15] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll, uh, see you then, then. Go ahead and take the rest of the day off.
  447. [2008-08-31 23:43:20] <[GM]Ludwig> You've done enough.
  448. [2008-08-31 23:43:29] * [gtz]Mary feels the wall, gets an idea of where she is
  449. [2008-08-31 23:44:07] <[gtz]Mary> No, I want to be ready for Cerise and Teilya's return, whom you've yet to check up on.
  450. [2008-08-31 23:45:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah. Very well, then. You... your dedication is commendable.
  451. [2008-08-31 23:45:32] <[GM]Ludwig> And, uh, yeah. Check up on them. Right.
  452. [2008-08-31 23:45:42] * [GM]Ludwig turns hesitantly and enters the war room.
  453. [2008-08-31 23:46:10] * [gtz]Mary leans next to the wall for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts
  454. [2008-08-31 23:50:32] <[GM]Tetro> Meanwhile, halfway across the world...
  455. [2008-08-31 23:51:25] * [PYG]Cerise is rubbing her temple.
  456. [2008-08-31 23:51:34] <[PYG]Cerise> I hate warp spells...
  457. [2008-08-31 23:51:55] * [PYG]Cerise looks around.
  458. [2008-08-31 23:51:58] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya?
  459. [2008-08-31 23:52:01] * [PB]Teilya is sitting on the ground with a huge grin.
  460. [2008-08-31 23:52:16] <[PB]Teilya> IT'S FUN! LET'S DO THAT AGAIN!
  461. [2008-08-31 23:52:30] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Are you kidding?
  462. [2008-08-31 23:52:39] <[GM]Tetro> Where you are standing (or sitting, as the case may be) looks once upon a time to have been a city square.
  463. [2008-08-31 23:53:19] <[PB]Teilya> NO! LET'S DO THE WARPY THING AGAIN~!
  464. [2008-08-31 23:53:20] <[GM]Tetro> But now...
  465. [2008-08-31 23:53:43] * [PYG]Cerise dusts her dress off as she takes in the surroundings and adjusts her rifle.
  466. [2008-08-31 23:53:51] <[GM]Tetro> Half of a statue still remains on its pedestal, the legs of a horse and its rider.
  467. [2008-08-31 23:54:26] <[GM]Tetro> The buildings which remain standing are blasted and full of holes: from decay, or occasionally, bullets.
  468. [2008-08-31 23:54:39] <[PYG]Cerise> Anyway...
  469. [2008-08-31 23:54:51] <[GM]Tetro> It's seen better days, is what I'm saying. You figure it out.
  470. [2008-08-31 23:55:03] * [PB]Teilya looks around while still sitting, tail flapping from one side to the other.
  471. [2008-08-31 23:55:30] <[PB]Teilya> Ooooooh, did we find a relic?
  472. [2008-08-31 23:55:46] <[PYG]Cerise> That's no relic.
  473. [2008-08-31 23:56:20] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Not relic? But it's in ruins.
  474. [2008-08-31 23:56:55] <[PYG]Cerise> It's not worth anything, besides, it's sculpted badly. The horses legs look all wrong.
  475. [2008-08-31 23:58:01] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? It's not a horse, it's tiger~!
  476. [2008-08-31 23:59:23] <[PYG]Cerise> Tigers don't have hooves, Miss Teilya.
  477. [2008-08-31 23:59:31] <[PYG]Cerise> And people certainly don't ride them.
  478. [2008-08-31 23:59:55] <[PYG]Cerise> We shouldn't dawdle. We should head home before dark.
  479. [2008-09-01 00:00:13] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Why?
  480. [2008-09-01 00:00:14] <[PYG]Cerise> Let's go, the armory isn't far from here.
  481. [2008-09-01 00:00:21] <[GM]Tetro> Looking closely, you can see the runes and formula glowing softly on the ground and statue.
  482. [2008-09-01 00:00:42] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Strange, it's never done that before.
  483. [2008-09-01 00:00:44] <[GM]Tetro> This must be the pick-up point.
  484. [2008-09-01 00:00:59] <[PB]Teilya> Oooooh! Shiny!
  485. [2008-09-01 00:01:29] * [PB]Teilya moves to poke it.
  486. [2008-09-01 00:02:02] <[PYG]Cerise> We'll need that for getting back.
  487. [2008-09-01 00:02:38] <[PB]Teilya> You mean doing that warping thing again?
  488. [2008-09-01 00:03:02] <[PYG]Cerise> Err...Yes, but we'll do that after we get what we need.
  489. [2008-09-01 00:03:13] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Think of it as a reward for the hard work.
  490. [2008-09-01 00:03:29] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Okay then!
  491. [2008-09-01 00:03:41] <[PYG]Cerise> Now, we should go, the bugs might show up if we hang around for too long.
  492. [2008-09-01 00:04:05] <[PB]Teilya> Bugs? They're here too?
  493. [2008-09-01 00:04:15] * [PB]Teilya starts to look a little bit worried.
  494. [2008-09-01 00:04:42] * [PYG]Cerise starts heading west along a broken road.
  495. [2008-09-01 00:05:03] <[PB]Teilya> N-Nya~! Wait for me~!
  496. [2008-09-01 00:05:31] * [PB]Teilya quickly skips behind Cerise.
  497. [2008-09-01 00:09:45] <[GM]Tetro> The city is deathly silent as you make your way towards the armory.
  498. [2008-09-01 00:09:57] <[PB]Teilya> So where are we going nya?
  499. [2008-09-01 00:10:20] <[PYG]Cerise> To pick up some things.
  500. [2008-09-01 00:10:29] <[PYG]Cerise> How much can you carry?
  501. [2008-09-01 00:10:51] <[PB]Teilya> Things? I can carry alot nya!
  502. [2008-09-01 00:11:12] <[PYG]Cerise> That's good to know. Ah, here it is!
  503. [2008-09-01 00:11:39] <[GM]Tetro> The door is hanging off its hinges, but the building is relatively intact.
  504. [2008-09-01 00:12:15] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Wait a minute.
  505. [2008-09-01 00:12:47] * [PB]Teilya pauses and looks at Cerise.
  506. [2008-09-01 00:14:07] <[PYG]Cerise> Something's in here. Normally, I close the doors here when I leave.
  507. [2008-09-01 00:14:56] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Is that so~?
  508. [2008-09-01 00:15:08] * [PYG]Cerise readies her rifle as she cautiously approaches the damaged door.
  509. [2008-09-01 00:15:51] * [PB]Teilya just sits down and stares at Cerise in interest.
  510. [2008-09-01 00:16:19] <[PYG]Cerise> Hey, don't just sit there! Come on!
  511. [2008-09-01 00:16:44] <[PYG]Cerise> Do you have a flashlight or something?
  512. [2008-09-01 00:16:44] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?! OH! Okay~!
  513. [2008-09-01 00:16:50] <[PB]Teilya> Nya!
  514. [2008-09-01 00:17:09] <[PYG]Cerise> Maybe something to defend yourself with too.
  515. [2008-09-01 00:17:14] * [PB]Teilya pulls out a flashlight and hand it to Cerise.
  516. [2008-09-01 00:17:21] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~!
  517. [2008-09-01 00:17:31] <[PYG]Cerise> You hold it, this rifle is heavy.
  518. [2008-09-01 00:17:43] * [PB]Teilya also produces a large sledgehammer from her pocket.
  519. [2008-09-01 00:17:54] <[PB]Teilya> Oh right~
  520. [2008-09-01 00:17:55] * [Kiri]Hans fires a shotgun at the source of the sound.
  521. [2008-09-01 00:18:07] <[PYG]Cerise> Kyaaa!
  522. [2008-09-01 00:18:07] * [PB]Teilya takes it back and pulls out a head-mounted light.
  523. [2008-09-01 00:18:24] <[GM]Tetro> {PAUSE}
  524. [2008-09-01 00:23:40] <[GM]Tetro> {UNPAUSE}
  525. [2008-09-01 00:24:07] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? What's that sound?
  526. [2008-09-01 00:24:21] <[PYG]Cerise> Th-that didn't sound like a bug...
  527. [2008-09-01 00:24:25] * [PB]Teilya looks around cluelessly
  528. [2008-09-01 00:24:38] <[PYG]Cerise> Stay close behind me, okay?
  529. [2008-09-01 00:24:50] <[PB]Teilya> Nya! Gotcha~!
  530. [2008-09-01 00:25:35] * [PYG]Cerise cautiously steps inside, rifle at the ready.
  531. [2008-09-01 00:25:42] <[Kiri]Hans> Speak something or I'll shoot!
  532. [2008-09-01 00:25:47] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?
  533. [2008-09-01 00:26:00] <[Kiri]Hans> or if you speak bug-language I'll still shoot!
  534. [2008-09-01 00:26:08] <[PYG]Cerise> Don't shoot! We're human...Er...Not bugs!
  535. [2008-09-01 00:26:34] * [Kiri]Hans fires another warning shot.
  536. [2008-09-01 00:26:47] <[Kiri]Hans> I don't believe your shit, bugs! you're playing with my mind!
  537. [2008-09-01 00:26:50] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?!
  538. [2008-09-01 00:27:11] * [PB]Teilya covers her ears with her hands at the sudden sound.
  539. [2008-09-01 00:29:49] * [Atai]_Sven 's head lifts up at the gunshot, a little bit further in past Hans. He takes out his knife and begins clanging it on one of the larger pipelines running through the armory, letting the sound carry through, serving as a warning signal for "shots fired" and "incoming" to his partners further inside.
  540. [2008-09-01 00:31:02] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Why don't I like that sound?
  541. [2008-09-01 00:31:12] <[Kiri]Hans> Holy shit! Guys! We have an army of bugs! goddamnit they are gonna kill us all!
  542. [2008-09-01 00:31:23] * [KC]Prero waits for the rining to stop, then does from same from the other end.
  543. [2008-09-01 00:31:24] <[Kiri]Hans> Fuck! fuck! we are SO dead!
  544. [2008-09-01 00:31:26] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?! Bug?! Where?!
  545. [2008-09-01 00:31:36] * [PB]Teilya looks around frantically.
  546. [2008-09-01 00:32:12] * [Az]Maxwell jumps up at the clanging and picks up his rifle and runs towards the source.
  547. [2008-09-01 00:32:33] <[PYG]Cerise> "Okay, Miss Teilya, I don't think they believe us." She whispers
  548. [2008-09-01 00:32:54] <[Kiri]Hans> DIE! MOTHERFUCKERS! DIE!
  549. [2008-09-01 00:32:58] * [Atai]_Sven taps back "Investigating, hold positions."
  550. [2008-09-01 00:32:59] * [Kiri]Hans fling a hand grenade at the door.
  551. [2008-09-01 00:33:03] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Why? They're humans...
  552. [2008-09-01 00:33:09] <[PB]Teilya> NYA?!
  553. [2008-09-01 00:33:13] * [KC]Prero quickly makes his way to the source but tries to be rather sneaky about it in a recon sort of way
  554. [2008-09-01 00:34:07] * [Atai]_Sven hears Hans' shouts, and grimly shakes his head, drawing his pistol and moving forward to where he heard Hans.
  555. [2008-09-01 00:35:03] * [KC]Prero readies a rifle from the upper level
  556. [2008-09-01 00:35:04] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya, take cover!
  557. [2008-09-01 00:35:08] <[PB]Teilya> KYA?!
  558. [2008-09-01 00:35:20] <[GM]Tetro> The grenade explodes!
  559. [2008-09-01 00:35:52] * [PB]Teilya is taken by surprise, and bare reacts in time to dodge out of the way. Still, the grenade's shrapnels grazed her a little.
  560. [2008-09-01 00:35:54] * [PYG]Cerise dives behind some steel crates away from the blast in time.
  561. [2008-09-01 00:36:03] * [Atai]_Sven halts at the explosion, instinctively diving for cover.
  562. [2008-09-01 00:36:51] * [Kiri]Hans is yelling huge load of insults at the door's direction.
  563. [2008-09-01 00:36:54] * [Az]Maxwell shivers at hearing the explosion and starts sprinting towards the sound, checking to see if he still has ammo.
  564. [2008-09-01 00:37:12] <[PB]Teilya> Ow ow ow ow...! It hurts nya...
  565. [2008-09-01 00:37:39] * [PB]Teilya quickly makes her way towards Cerise, then proceed to start licking the minor cuts that appears.
  566. [2008-09-01 00:37:58] <[PYG]Cerise> How bad is it, Miss Teilya? Can you still move quickly?
  567. [2008-09-01 00:38:27] * [PB]Teilya looks up teary-eyed, but nods anyway.
  568. [2008-09-01 00:38:37] <[PB]Teilya> Nya...it hurts, but I'm okay...
  569. [2008-09-01 00:38:42] <[PYG]Cerise> What will it take for you to believe we're not bugs anyway?!
  570. [2008-09-01 00:39:13] <[Kiri]Hans> Fucking bugs is speaking human language! It's getting inside my head!
  571. [2008-09-01 00:39:22] * [Atai]_Sven comes up next to Hans, behind cover, crouched down, and hisses at him.
  572. [2008-09-01 00:39:25] <[Atai]_Sven> Michidtzsenvig... Hans! what haf you been shooting? Is it bug?
  573. [2008-09-01 00:39:48] <[Kiri]Hans> Sven! Prero! Maxx! The bugs is getting inside our head! Fuck! They are EATING OUR BRAINS ALIVE!
  574. [2008-09-01 00:40:05] <[Kiri]Hans> I'm gonna die, man! DIE!
  575. [2008-09-01 00:40:20] <[Kiri]Hans> I'll kill that bastard before that happens!
  576. [2008-09-01 00:40:24] * [Atai]_Sven cuffs Hans.
  577. [2008-09-01 00:40:24] * [KC]Prero begins to mutter to himself
  578. [2008-09-01 00:40:26] <[Atai]_Sven> Hans!
  579. [2008-09-01 00:40:34] <[Atai]_Sven> Settle the fuck down.
  580. [2008-09-01 00:40:49] <[Atai]_Sven> Does that look like bug?
  581. [2008-09-01 00:40:51] * [Az]Maxwell pulls some crates nearby and tries to se up a barricade facing the door that Hans is aiming at.
  582. [2008-09-01 00:41:00] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya, maybe you should shut off your light, they might find us.
  583. [2008-09-01 00:41:04] <[Atai]_Sven> Does not look like bug, does not sound like bug.
  584. [2008-09-01 00:41:21] <[Atai]_Sven> Bug also not shiny and bright.
  585. [2008-09-01 00:41:37] <[Az]Maxwell> The fireflys are though.
  586. [2008-09-01 00:41:39] * [PB]Teilya nods at Cerise and fumbles to switch the lights off.
  587. [2008-09-01 00:41:49] * [KC]Prero takes a shot at Teilya
  588. [2008-09-01 00:41:57] * [Atai]_Sven glares in Maxwell's direction.
  589. [2008-09-01 00:42:07] <[Atai]_Sven> Do not encourage him.
  590. [2008-09-01 00:42:08] * [Kiri]Hans is sweating profusely and stare at the scene in shock.
  591. [2008-09-01 00:42:08] <[PB]Teilya> KYA?!
  592. [2008-09-01 00:42:14] <[KC]Prero> Please do not move, senorita.
  593. [2008-09-01 00:42:30] <[KC]Prero> Your identity is...
  594. [2008-09-01 00:42:34] * [PB]Teilya flinches back when the bullet whizzes past and nicked her shoulder.
  595. [2008-09-01 00:42:38] * [KC]Prero struggles to come up with a word
  596. [2008-09-01 00:42:47] <[KC]Prero> ...indefatigable.
  597. [2008-09-01 00:43:11] <[Atai]_Sven> what the fucks are ..."indefaggotable?"
  598. [2008-09-01 00:43:20] <[KC]Prero> The incorrect word.
  599. [2008-09-01 00:43:27] <[PB]Teilya> Owwwwwwww...why are you shooting me nya~?
  600. [2008-09-01 00:43:36] <[Kiri]Hans> Holy batman goddamnit.... that's no bug....
  601. [2008-09-01 00:43:37] <[Atai]_Sven> Whatever. They are not bug?
  602. [2008-09-01 00:43:43] <[KC]Prero> Still could be bug.
  603. [2008-09-01 00:43:49] <[Atai]_Sven> Shits.
  604. [2008-09-01 00:43:52] <[Kiri]Hans> maybe they are shapeshifting.
  605. [2008-09-01 00:43:57] <[Az]Maxwell> Yeah.
  606. [2008-09-01 00:43:59] <[KC]Prero> Obsevation: wool.
  607. [2008-09-01 00:44:04] <[Kiri]Hans> You never know.
  608. [2008-09-01 00:44:11] <[KC]Prero> You know who enjoys the meal of the wool?
  609. [2008-09-01 00:44:21] <[Kiri]Hans> So uncuff me and lemme shoot the fuckers dead!
  610. [2008-09-01 00:44:33] <[KC]Prero> The flitterings through the night.
  611. [2008-09-01 00:44:44] <[KC]Prero> Such troublemaking could only prove loquacious.
  612. [2008-09-01 00:45:17] <[Az]Maxwell> Don't waste that ammo, there's only a few of 'em.
  613. [2008-09-01 00:45:48] <[Kiri]Hans> Ah, right.
  614. [2008-09-01 00:45:50] * [PYG]Cerise fumbles around in the dark for something heavy to throw.
  615. [2008-09-01 00:45:58] <[KC]Prero> Understand, mi amigo. I will make a shot that is true.
  616. [2008-09-01 00:46:02] <[GM]Tetro> {PAUSE}
  617. [2008-09-01 00:53:30] <[GM]Tetro> {UNPAUSE}
  618. [2008-09-01 00:53:37] * [PYG]Cerise finds an empty can and throws it to her left. The darkness makes it hard to see where she threw and ends up hitting a metal crate right next to her.
  619. [2008-09-01 00:53:50] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Oh, damn.
  620. [2008-09-01 00:56:03] <[Atai]_Sven> ...Maybe we shoulds just tells them to fuck off?
  621. [2008-09-01 00:56:13] <[Atai]_Sven> Kills them if they doesn't.
  622. [2008-09-01 00:56:23] <[Az]Maxwell> and let them get reinforcements?
  623. [2008-09-01 00:57:02] <[Kiri]Hans> Fuck yeah. that's for the best!
  624. [2008-09-01 00:57:02] <[Kiri]Hans> Kill 'em and loot 'em!
  625. [2008-09-01 00:57:03] <[Az]Maxwell> hold on
  626. [2008-09-01 00:57:05] <[PB]Teilya> Nya! Damn you idiots~!
  627. [2008-09-01 00:57:35] <[Atai]_Sven> Mm... I'd have saids they sounded alone, but they speaks pretty.
  628. [2008-09-01 00:57:39] * [Az]Maxwell gestures to his rifle light and nods off to where the two are, and waits for confirmation from the others.
  629. [2008-09-01 00:57:50] * [PB]Teilya throws her hammer out at the humans, but hits a metallic pole close and have the hammer hits her back on her tail.
  630. [2008-09-01 00:58:01] <[Atai]_Sven> Maybe they come from somewhere larger. More people. Reinforcements is not so stupid after all.
  631. [2008-09-01 00:58:03] <[PB]Teilya> KYA!
  632. [2008-09-01 00:58:16] <[PB]Teilya> Waaaaaaaaaaaah~! Not fair~!
  633. [2008-09-01 00:58:19] <[Atai]_Sven> Shoots them, then?
  634. [2008-09-01 00:58:27] <[Kiri]Hans> Fucking what!? THEY THROW SHIT AT US!
  635. [2008-09-01 00:58:47] <[Atai]_Sven> Sounds like yes. Prero?
  636. [2008-09-01 00:58:53] <[GM]Tetro> {PAUSE}
  637. [2008-09-01 00:59:01] * [Kiri]Hans fires at Teliya before his partner does.
  638. [2008-09-01 00:59:14] <[GM]Tetro> {PAUSE}
  639. [2008-09-01 01:00:21] <[GM]Tetro> {UNPAUSE}
  640. [2008-09-01 01:00:44] <[GM]Tetro> *FUCKING BOOM!*
  641. [2008-09-01 01:00:58] <[GM]Tetro> From outside comes the sound of a deafening impact!
  642. [2008-09-01 01:01:15] <[GM]Tetro> The ground, and the whole building shakes!
  643. [2008-09-01 01:01:25] <[GM]Tetro> Something landed out there... something big!
  644. [2008-09-01 01:01:55] * [gtz]Mary meanwhile, someone is praying for two lost souls...
  645. [2008-09-01 01:03:21] * [Atai]_Sven goes for cover.
  646. [2008-09-01 01:03:23] <[Atai]_Sven> Oh, what the flying fucks?
  647. [2008-09-01 01:03:34] * [KC]Prero falls from the walkway, managing a tumble that doesn't leave him dead
  648. [2008-09-01 01:03:48] <[Atai]_Sven> ...Everyone alive?
  649. [2008-09-01 01:03:55] <[Az]Maxwell> Shit, damnit Hans, that's what happens when you shoot like you're in a video game.
  650. [2008-09-01 01:04:18] <[Kiri]Hans> What the fuck! I didn't do that!
  651. [2008-09-01 01:04:28] <[Kiri]Hans> Like a shotgun can make a cave-in!
  652. [2008-09-01 01:04:30] <[Atai]_Sven> That's two. Prero?
  653. [2008-09-01 01:04:30] <[KC]Prero> Joder!
  654. [2008-09-01 01:04:31] <[PB]Teilya> KYA?!
  655. [2008-09-01 01:04:38] * [KC]Prero curses in Spanish
  656. [2008-09-01 01:04:45] <[Atai]_Sven> wonderful. Anyones broken?
  657. [2008-09-01 01:04:58] <[Az]Maxwell> A shotgun can't make one, but whatever heard your shotgun probably can.
  658. [2008-09-01 01:05:06] * [PB]Teilya crouches down and covers her ears with her hands, shaking a little.
  659. [2008-09-01 01:05:15] <[Kiri]Hans> FUCKING BUGS CALLING IN THEIR FRIEND!
  660. [2008-09-01 01:05:21] <[Kiri]Hans> AAAAAAAAAHHHHH!
  661. [2008-09-01 01:06:06] <[Atai]_Sven> Someone slaps him.
  662. [2008-09-01 01:06:09] * [Kiri]Hans juse his shaking hand to jam a slugs inside his gun, reloading it.
  663. [2008-09-01 01:06:14] * [Atai]_Sven raises his voice.
  664. [2008-09-01 01:06:38] <[Atai]_Sven> Little girls, was that some friends outside?
  665. [2008-09-01 01:07:01] <[GM]Tetro> {Hold on a sec.}
  666. [2008-09-01 01:07:03] <[Az]Maxwell> Little girls and big... things... just great.
  667. [2008-09-01 01:07:09] <[GM]Tetro> {Not quite pause, just... hold on.}
  668. [2008-09-01 01:07:35] * [Atai]_Sven snickers a bit before seriousing back the fuck up.
  669. [2008-09-01 01:08:05] <[GM]Tetro> {RETCON: all this shit gets copy-pasted to after Cerise shoots Prero.}
  670. [2008-09-01 01:08:31] <[Az]Maxwell> Christ, I need a smoke.
  671. [2008-09-01 01:09:38] <[Kiri]Hans> Maxx! Gimme that .50DeEagle you found earlier!
  672. [2008-09-01 01:09:48] <[GM]Tetro> {HOLD ON.}
  673. [2008-09-01 01:09:48] <[Kiri]Hans> I don't have a handgun!
  674. [2008-09-01 01:10:24] <[Atai]_Sven> ...We have beagle?
  675. [2008-09-01 01:10:38] * [PYG]Cerise moves closer to where she heard something like a sack falling. She realizes it's one of their antagonists and leans out the corner and pulls the trigger of her rifle.
  676. [2008-09-01 01:10:46] <[GM]Tetro> {OKAY.}
  677. [2008-09-01 01:11:10] <[KC]Prero> Daughter of the whore, my skin has become the tender chunks!
  678. [2008-09-01 01:11:20] * [KC]Prero reels back
  679. [2008-09-01 01:14:09] <[GM]Tetro> {Resume.}
  680. [2008-09-01 01:15:15] <[Atai]_Sven> Shit! Little girls has big rifle.
  681. [2008-09-01 01:15:33] <[Az]Maxwell> Damn, one of those would be nice.
  682. [2008-09-01 01:15:48] <[Atai]_Sven> Hans, gets down unless you wants new assholes from little girl.
  683. [2008-09-01 01:16:14] <[Kiri]Hans> WAT! Oh hell!
  684. [2008-09-01 01:16:22] * [Kiri]Hans duck down.
  685. [2008-09-01 01:27:04] * [Az]Maxwell stands up from the crates and aims his rifle at the two 'bugs' and turns his rifle light on to blind them. "Everyone! FIRE!"
  686. [2008-09-01 01:27:20] * [PB]Teilya looks up a bit, only to be blinded by a strong beam of light. It doesn't help that she can see in the dark and is sensitive to light.
  687. [2008-09-01 01:27:26] <[PB]Teilya> KYA!
  688. [2008-09-01 01:27:43] * [PYG]Cerise gets caught in the bright beam and is unable to aim properly.
  689. [2008-09-01 01:28:24] <[GM]Tetro> From somewhere close by, you all hear a dull "whump" sound.
  690. [2008-09-01 01:28:39] <[GM]Tetro> After that, is a few moments of silence...
  691. [2008-09-01 01:28:45] <[Atai]_Sven> Well, that's as good as any--
  692. [2008-09-01 01:29:07] * [Atai]_Sven lifts his gun to fire, then falters.
  693. [2008-09-01 01:29:09] <[GM]Tetro> ...before a large, metallic, humanoid shape comes smashing through the ceiling between the two combatant parties.
  694. [2008-09-01 01:29:19] <[Kiri]Hans> Now what?! Shoot?!
  695. [2008-09-01 01:29:22] <[Atai]_Sven> ...I imagined that r--HOLY SHITS!
  696. [2008-09-01 01:29:29] <[Kiri]Hans> HOLY GODFUCK!
  697. [2008-09-01 01:29:30] <[Atai]_Sven> FALLS BACK
  698. [2008-09-01 01:29:31] <[Az]Maxwell> FIRE! HOLY SHIT! FIRE!
  699. [2008-09-01 01:29:39] * [KC]Prero mumbles into the ground about the devil
  700. [2008-09-01 01:29:49] * [Atai]_Sven looks about
  701. [2008-09-01 01:30:02] <[Atai]_Sven> Where the fuck is Prero?!
  702. [2008-09-01 01:30:38] <[Kiri]Hans> THERE!
  703. [2008-09-01 01:30:41] <[Az]Maxwell> Can't think about him now! Fall back!
  704. [2008-09-01 01:30:47] * [Atai]_Sven takes cover while looking around frantically.
  705. [2008-09-01 01:30:48] * [Kiri]Hans point at a thing used to be Prero, unther its feet.
  706. [2008-09-01 01:30:54] <[Atai]_Sven> Fucks and a half!
  707. [2008-09-01 01:31:01] <[Kiri]Hans> *under
  708. [2008-09-01 01:31:23] * [Atai]_Sven continues to retreat, slinging a grenade in the direction of the new intruder
  709. [2008-09-01 01:31:24] <[GM]Tetro> The shape straightens. Easily ten feet tall, heavily armored. All else that can be seen clearly is its red, glowing eyes.
  710. [2008-09-01 01:31:34] <[GM]Tetro> {NEW CONFLICT}
  711. [2008-09-01 01:32:03] <[Atai]_Sven> shit shit shit shit shit fuckings shit!
  712. [2008-09-01 01:32:59] <[Kiri]Hans> OH YOU! OH YOU! YOU KILLED HIM!
  713. [2008-09-01 01:33:05] <[Kiri]Hans> AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!
  714. [2008-09-01 01:33:18] * [Kiri]Hans fires at the unknown, standing tall and not moving.
  715. [2008-09-01 01:33:31] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya, what's going on? I can't see a thing!
  716. [2008-09-01 01:33:52] <[PB]Teilya> KYA! I DUNNO! MY EYES! WAAAAAAAAAAAAH~!
  717. [2008-09-01 01:39:00] <[GM]Tetro> The figure raises an arm, and gouts of fire shoot out from it, accompanied by a loud whirring noise. The wall behind Hans disentegrates, yet he is miraculously unharmed.
  718. [2008-09-01 01:39:11] <[GM]Tetro> {NEW CONFLICT}
  719. [2008-09-01 01:39:39] <[Kiri]Hans> Fuck! I'm outta here!
  720. [2008-09-01 01:39:47] <[Kiri]Hans> Someone! Recovery fire!
  721. [2008-09-01 01:42:15] * [Atai]_Sven opens up on the thing from cover.
  722. [2008-09-01 01:42:33] <[GM]Tetro> {This isn't your conflict. Stop doing things.}
  723. [2008-09-01 01:43:25] <[Atai]_Sven> (oops.)
  724. [2008-09-01 01:45:35] * [PYG]Cerise makes a quick dash into a nearby room. Perfect! Boxes of munitions! She takes a few placing them in the pocket her apron.
  725. [2008-09-01 01:47:04] * [PB]Teilya sniffs a few times and pushes herself up, then gives everyone a death-glare and runs away towards the broken statue.
  726. [2008-09-01 01:47:23] <[PB]Teilya> I HATE YOU ALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL!
  727. [2008-09-01 01:50:19] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah! Miss Teilya! Wait!
  728. [2008-09-01 01:50:52] * [PYG]Cerise makes a dash after the cat-eared maid while trying to sling her rifle.
  729. [2008-09-01 01:52:17] <[GM]Tetro> As you leave, you hear that whirring sound again, and the sound of gunfire in return.
  730. [2008-09-01 01:53:18] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya...Please...slow down!
  731. [2008-09-01 01:54:08] <[PB]Teilya> Waaaaaaaaaaah! I wanna go home!
  732. [2008-09-01 01:54:36] <[PYG]Cerise> We still need to get food though.
  733. [2008-09-01 01:54:56] <[PYG]Cerise> At least, enough for a few more days...You think you can hold out a little longer?
  734. [2008-09-01 01:55:07] * [PYG]Cerise attempts to console her by petting her head.
  735. [2008-09-01 01:55:59] * [PB]Teilya sniffs a few times and sits down, then nods very very slowly.
  736. [2008-09-01 01:56:14] <[PYG]Cerise> Wait, you're hurt.
  737. [2008-09-01 01:56:33] <[PYG]Cerise> We'll need some bandages.
  738. [2008-09-01 02:02:30] * [PB]Teilya sniffs a few more times, and hands out a roll of bandage to Cerise. She looks at her with teary eyes and sniffed one more time.
  739. [2008-09-01 02:02:48] <[PB]Teilya> C-Can you...do it for me...please?
  740. [2008-09-01 02:02:57] <[PB]Teilya> I...I...
  741. [2008-09-01 02:03:05] <[PYG]Cerise> ?!
  742. [2008-09-01 02:03:20] * [PYG]Cerise wonders what this sudden feeling is.
  743. [2008-09-01 02:03:27] <[PB]Teilya> P-Please...it hurts...
  744. [2008-09-01 02:04:00] * [PYG]Cerise has difficulty resisting. She can't! She belongs to Mary...But those ears...that voice...Something about it...
  745. [2008-09-01 02:04:27] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah...O-okay...
  746. [2008-09-01 02:04:34] * [PB]Teilya sniffs again, then takes her glasses off and tries to wipe the tears away.
  747. [2008-09-01 02:04:43] <[PB]Teilya> T-Thank you...
  748. [2008-09-01 02:05:06] * [PB]Teilya smiles weakly at Cerise
  749. [2008-09-01 02:05:42] * [PYG]Cerise takes the roll of bandages from Teilya.
  750. [2008-09-01 02:06:02] <[PYG]Cerise> Wh-where are you hurt exactly?
  751. [2008-09-01 02:06:58] * [PB]Teilya flinches slightly when she takes the bandage, then motions towards her shoulder and her hand, while waving her tail weakly at her. She was shaking slightly the whole time, looking at Cerise uncertainly.
  752. [2008-09-01 02:08:29] <[PYG]Cerise> I...guess I'll start with your tail...Um...
  753. [2008-09-01 02:08:33] * [PYG]Cerise gulps.
  754. [2008-09-01 02:08:56] <[PYG]Cerise> Could you turn a bit so I can, um, s-see?
  755. [2008-09-01 02:09:44] * [PB]Teilya slowly nods and turns around, her tail wiggling weakly.
  756. [2008-09-01 02:10:09] <[PB]Teilya> P-Please be gentle...it hurts...
  757. [2008-09-01 02:11:17] <[PYG]Cerise> O-of course...
  758. [2008-09-01 02:12:46] * [PYG]Cerise reaches out, hesitating at first but then finally laying her fingers on the soft fur on the tail. Stroking it as if she was handling a butterfly's wings. She applies the bandage around the wound slowly.
  759. [2008-09-01 02:13:11] <[PB]Teilya> Kya~!
  760. [2008-09-01 02:13:31] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah! S-sorry, did that hurt?
  761. [2008-09-01 02:13:46] * [PB]Teilya squeaks quietly when Cerise touched her tail, but calms down after a bit and shakes her head, smiling weakly.
  762. [2008-09-01 02:14:04] <[PB]Teilya> N-No...I-I'm fine...
  763. [2008-09-01 02:14:23] <[PB]Teilya> I-It's...okay...
  764. [2008-09-01 02:14:46] <[PYG]Cerise> O-okay. You're, uh, tail's done anyway. N...n-next is your shoulder!
  765. [2008-09-01 02:15:37] * [PYG]Cerise feels like her face is burning up. THINK OF MARY. THINK OF MARY. THINK OF...TEILYA?! NO! BAD, CERISE! VERY BAD!
  766. [2008-09-01 02:16:46] * [PB]Teilya noticed the unusual look Cerise has, and weakly touches her hand with her own.
  767. [2008-09-01 02:17:07] * [PYG]Cerise gasps and pulls her hand away little at the short moment of contact.
  768. [2008-09-01 02:17:23] <[PB]Teilya> D-Don't w-worry...I'll be f-fine...a-as long as it's...it's you.
  769. [2008-09-01 02:19:59] * [PB]Teilya smiles up at Cerise, and a trail of tear unkowingly slides down her face.
  770. [2008-09-01 02:20:05] <[PYG]Cerise> Uh...Y-yeah...I...guess...
  771. [2008-09-01 02:20:50] * [PYG]Cerise doesn't realize her hand reflexively reaching up for Teilya's cheek and wiping away the single tear.
  772. [2008-09-01 02:21:18] * [PYG]Cerise 's hand doesn't leave Cerise's face.
  773. [2008-09-01 02:21:28] <[PYG]Cerise> (Er... *Teilya's face)
  774. [2008-09-01 02:21:36] <[GM]Tetro> {I'll fix it in editing.}
  775. [2008-09-01 02:22:17] <[PYG]Cerise> W-was it that bad for you?
  776. [2008-09-01 02:22:30] * [PB]Teilya shakes slightly at the contact, then purrs in response and smiles at her.
  777. [2008-09-01 02:23:13] <[PB]Teilya> I-I'm fine...d-don't worry about i-it...j-just...keep...keep going...
  778. [2008-09-01 02:24:05] * [PYG]Cerise can't help it anymore. She's going to hate herself later for this...but right now...she can't seem to shake this girl in front of her from her gaze. Keep going? Right! Her shoulder!
  779. [2008-09-01 02:24:37] <[PYG]Cerise> Y-yes of course. You're shoulder! I'll fix your shoulder right up, haha!
  780. [2008-09-01 02:25:45] <[PYG]Cerise> Um...C-could you raise your arm a bit...Please?
  781. [2008-09-01 02:26:25] * [PB]Teilya blinks innocently at Cerise, then slowly raises her arm.
  782. [2008-09-01 02:26:41] * [PYG]Cerise carefully wraps the bandage on the catgirl maid's shoulder wound.
  783. [2008-09-01 02:27:43] * [PYG]Cerise can't help but think that Teilya's skin feels so soft...and warm. After such a tense situation not long ago, the warmth is soothing to touch.
  784. [2008-09-01 02:27:44] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~!
  785. [2008-09-01 02:28:07] <[PYG]Cerise> N-next is y-your...
  786. [2008-09-01 02:28:11] * [PYG]Cerise gulps again.
  787. [2008-09-01 02:28:16] <[PYG]Cerise> ...H-hand.
  788. [2008-09-01 02:29:06] * [PB]Teilya nods slowly, then raises her other hand to Cerise.
  789. [2008-09-01 02:29:25] <[PB]Teilya> Uuuuuu...
  790. [2008-09-01 02:29:58] * [PB]Teilya shivers slightly at a sudden jolt of pain, and instinctively licked the wound.
  791. [2008-09-01 02:30:47] <[PB]Teilya> Uuuuuu...I don't like bullets...your hands are better Cerise, they're softer...
  792. [2008-09-01 02:31:04] <[PB]Teilya> And...warmer...more...gentle...
  793. [2008-09-01 02:31:06] * [PYG]Cerise feels something like steam shoot out her ears.
  794. [2008-09-01 02:33:10] <[PYG]Cerise> Ehehe, n-no! My hands? S-soft? I hold a cold metal rifle all day though!
  795. [2008-09-01 02:33:29] * [PYG]Cerise chuckles nervously. What is it about this girl...It's so...inviting.
  796. [2008-09-01 02:35:07] <[PB]Teilya> M-Maybe you do...but you're very...very gentle...it must be good...to be so strong and gentle at the same time...
  797. [2008-09-01 02:35:44] * [PB]Teilya gives Cerise a sad smile, shaking her head a little.
  798. [2008-09-01 02:35:54] * [PYG]Cerise quickly but carefully tries to wrap Teilya's hand with the bandage.
  799. [2008-09-01 02:36:42] * [PYG]Cerise looks back up at Teilya's eyes.
  800. [2008-09-01 02:36:49] <[PYG]Cerise> I-it's...done...I guess.
  801. [2008-09-01 02:37:57] * [PB]Teilya tries to move her arms a little, then smiles brightly at Cerise, a few lingering tears in her eyes.
  802. [2008-09-01 02:38:28] <[PB]Teilya> T-Thanks...you are...a very very kind...person...
  803. [2008-09-01 02:38:44] <[GM]Tetro> Suddenly, from the direction of the armory comes a muffled explosion.
  804. [2008-09-01 02:38:56] <[PB]Teilya> KYA?!
  805. [2008-09-01 02:39:20] * [PYG]Cerise turns her head to the explosion.
  806. [2008-09-01 02:39:34] <[PYG]Cerise> Wha...?
  807. [2008-09-01 02:40:08] * [PB]Teilya jumps in fright and looks at the direction of the explosion, and starts to shake with tears pouring out.
  808. [2008-09-01 02:40:31] <[PB]Teilya> N-No...no more...
  809. [2008-09-01 02:40:57] * [PB]Teilya suddenly clings onto Cerise, sobbing into her clothes.
  810. [2008-09-01 02:41:18] * [PYG]Cerise can't leave this poor frightened girl alone. Tries to pat her head to console her.
  811. [2008-09-01 02:41:21] <[PB]Teilya> G-Get them away...get the voices away...
  812. [2008-09-01 02:41:45] <[PYG]Cerise> It's okay, th-that should have made the bad men go away for good.
  813. [2008-09-01 02:42:20] <[PB]Teilya> R-Really?
  814. [2008-09-01 02:42:43] * [PB]Teilya looks up with frightful eyes, tears still rolling down her chin.
  815. [2008-09-01 02:43:12] * [PYG]Cerise pulls away from Teilya slightly to look her in the eyes.
  816. [2008-09-01 02:43:19] <[PYG]Cerise> Yes, I promise!
  817. [2008-09-01 02:43:54] * [PB]Teilya stares at Cerise for a moment longer, and unwillingly nods her head.
  818. [2008-09-01 02:44:11] <[PB]Teilya> O-Okay...I b-believe you...
  819. [2008-09-01 02:44:32] * [PYG]Cerise can't hold it in anymore. She slowly leans forward and plants a soft kiss on her Teilya's head.
  820. [2008-09-01 02:45:07] <[PYG]Cerise> It's okay now...
  821. [2008-09-01 02:46:29] <[PYG]Cerise> A-anyway, we should go!
  822. [2008-09-01 02:46:31] * [PB]Teilya bit her bottom lips lightly, and nods again. She gives Cerise another weak smile and calms down a little.
  823. [2008-09-01 02:46:40] <[PYG]Cerise> Master's waiting after all!
  824. [2008-09-01 02:46:57] <[PB]Teilya> O-Okay...
  825. [2008-09-01 02:47:16] <[PB]Teilya> A-And we c-can go...home...
  826. [2008-09-01 02:47:34] <[PYG]Cerise> Of course!
  827. [2008-09-01 02:47:55] <[PYG]Cerise> We'll get food, and then do that warp thing you like so much!
  828. [2008-09-01 02:48:22] * [PB]Teilya looks at Cerise, and nods once more with a smile, slowly standing back up.
  829. [2008-09-01 02:48:55] <[PB]Teilya> Y-Yeah, we'll get many food, and have...have a feast t-tonight!
  830. [2008-09-01 02:51:40] <[GM]Tetro> And that you did.
  831. [2008-09-01 02:52:03] <[GM]Tetro> On the other side of the square, you find the remains of a supermarket, practically untouched.
  832. [2008-09-01 02:52:51] <[GM]Tetro> With Teilya's magic (?) dress, you're able to pack enough imperishable foodstuffs to last for months, and even a few pieces of meat and vegetables that hadn't gone bad yet.
  833. [2008-09-01 02:55:04] <[GM]Tetro> Mission accomplished, you return to the square and signal Ludwig to summon you back to the fortress.
  834. [2008-09-01 02:56:02] <[GM]Tetro> The runes glow, the air pulses as before, and... FLASH!
  835. [2008-09-01 02:56:14] <[GM]Tetro> You're back in the Travel Chamber.
  836. [2008-09-01 02:57:00] * [GM]Ludwig opens the chamber door.
  837. [2008-09-01 02:57:12] <[PYG]Cerise> We've returned, Master Ludwig.
  838. [2008-09-01 02:57:17] * [PYG]Cerise bows.
  839. [2008-09-01 02:57:20] <[PB]Teilya> M-Master!
  840. [2008-09-01 02:57:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Thank God you're both safe!
  841. [2008-09-01 02:57:43] <[GM]Ludwig> How did it go?
  842. [2008-09-01 02:57:47] * [PB]Teilya bounces up and tackle hugs Ludwig.
  843. [2008-09-01 02:57:55] <[Gat]Mary> Indeed. are you two alright?
  844. [2008-09-01 02:57:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Ack! H-hey, now...!
  845. [2008-09-01 02:58:10] * [GM]Ludwig laughs and ruffles Teilya's hair.
  846. [2008-09-01 02:58:23] * [Gat]Mary senses a disturbance, but is unable to place it... smiles obliviously.
  847. [2008-09-01 02:58:29] * [PB]Teilya sniffs a little and nods, smiling a bit.
  848. [2008-09-01 02:58:41] <[PB]Teilya> I-I'm fine, thanks to Cerise!
  849. [2008-09-01 02:58:43] * [PYG]Cerise feels some slight envy at the sight but quikcly shakes it off. MARY ONLY! MARY ONLY! WHAT ARE YOU THINKING, CERISE?!
  850. [2008-09-01 02:59:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "If you missed out on getting food, then I have a beautiful mold stew."
  851. [2008-09-01 02:59:14] <[PYG]Cerise> I suppose we ran into a bit of trouble...
  852. [2008-09-01 02:59:37] <[PB]Teilya> Bad men...they shoot me and Cerise...
  853. [2008-09-01 02:59:41] * [Gat]Mary frowns
  854. [2008-09-01 02:59:44] <[GM]Ludwig> What?!
  855. [2008-09-01 02:59:54] <[PB]Teilya> Then a HUUUUUUUUGE robot comes and makes things worse...
  856. [2008-09-01 02:59:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Are you hurt?
  857. [2008-09-01 03:00:11] <[GM]Ludwig> A robot?
  858. [2008-09-01 03:00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Is this the new self-service check-out?"
  859. [2008-09-01 03:00:21] * [GM]Ludwig looks to Cerise for confirmation.
  860. [2008-09-01 03:00:24] * [PB]Teilya sniffs a little, and shakes her head.
  861. [2008-09-01 03:00:34] <[PB]Teilya> I'm fine, thanks to Cerise nya.
  862. [2008-09-01 03:00:47] <[PYG]Cerise> It's true, Master.
  863. [2008-09-01 03:00:55] <[PYG]Cerise> But, as you can see, we made it out just fine.
  864. [2008-09-01 03:01:01] <[GM]Ludwig> And, the supplies...?
  865. [2008-09-01 03:01:02] <[PB]Teilya> She's a very very good person!
  866. [2008-09-01 03:01:19] <[PYG]Cerise> We have them.
  867. [2008-09-01 03:01:37] <[PYG]Cerise> Though I didn't get as many munitions as I would have liked, but they'll do.
  868. [2008-09-01 03:01:43] * [GM]Ludwig looks around.
  869. [2008-09-01 03:01:49] <[GM]Ludwig> Um. Where?
  870. [2008-09-01 03:01:59] * [PB]Teilya starts pulling the supplies out, stacking them one by one.
  871. [2008-09-01 03:02:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Wha-- oh!
  872. [2008-09-01 03:02:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Good heavens... there certainly is a lot
  873. [2008-09-01 03:02:50] * [GM]Ludwig takes Teilya's hand gently, stopping her in mid-stack.
  874. [2008-09-01 03:02:50] <[PYG]Cerise> It'll be enough for months.
  875. [2008-09-01 03:03:10] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, why don't you go with Alexis and put all this away in the larder? Okay?
  876. [2008-09-01 03:03:11] * [PB]Teilya stops and looks at her master curiously.
  877. [2008-09-01 03:03:20] <[PB]Teilya> Oh okay!
  878. [2008-09-01 03:03:32] * [GM]Ludwig glances over to Alexis and nods.
  879. [2008-09-01 03:03:32] * [PYG]Cerise winces a bit as she tries to step forward.
  880. [2008-09-01 03:03:43] * [GM]Ludwig looks back at Cerise.
  881. [2008-09-01 03:03:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Months? Wow.
  882. [2008-09-01 03:03:57] * [PB]Teilya quickly starts packing the supplies back into her pockets.
  883. [2008-09-01 03:03:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, maybe you'd better help, too. That's going to be a lot of boxes.
  884. [2008-09-01 03:04:18] <[Gat]Mary> Understood.
  885. [2008-09-01 03:04:27] <[GM]Ludwig> {Wait, retcon. Better idea.}
  886. [2008-09-01 03:04:39] <[Gat]Mary> (ununderstood)
  887. [2008-09-01 03:05:12] * [GM]Ludwig notices Cerise is having trouble moving.
  888. [2008-09-01 03:05:25] <[GM]Ludwig> That's going to be a lot of boxes... I'll come with you and help out, actually.
  889. [2008-09-01 03:05:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, you help Cerise get to a bed. She seems to need some rest before dinner.
  890. [2008-09-01 03:05:58] <[PYG]Cerise> But, Master, I shou--...Wha-?!
  891. [2008-09-01 03:06:03] <[Gat]Mary> Of course. Come with me, Cerise.
  892. [2008-09-01 03:06:05] * [PB]Teilya follows Ludwig's glance, and upon seeing Cerise, runs up to her in concern.
  893. [2008-09-01 03:06:16] <[PB]Teilya> Hey hey Cerise, are you hurt?
  894. [2008-09-01 03:06:30] <[PB]Teilya> D-Did I m-mess up?
  895. [2008-09-01 03:07:05] <[PYG]Cerise> N-no! Of course not! You didn't do anything wrong, Miss Teilya! I was clumsy.
  896. [2008-09-01 03:07:09] * [Gat]Mary smiles
  897. [2008-09-01 03:07:22] <[Gat]Mary> Come, Cerise. This time I'll lead the way.
  898. [2008-09-01 03:07:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Now, Teilya, help me get all this to the larder. I've got a bad back."
  899. [2008-09-01 03:07:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, come along, Teilya. Mary can take care of her from here.
  900. [2008-09-01 03:07:55] * [Gat]Mary reaches out her hand~
  901. [2008-09-01 03:07:58] * [PB]Teilya looks at her uncertainly, concerned, but nods anyway. She rubs her face against hers one last time before bouncing away to her orders.
  902. [2008-09-01 03:08:02] <[GM]Ludwig> You can tell me all about the big robot on the way.
  903. [2008-09-01 03:08:19] <[PB]Teilya> Get well soon Cerise~!
  904. [2008-09-01 03:08:29] <[PYG]Cerise> Y-yeah...
  905. [2008-09-01 03:08:42] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah!
  906. [2008-09-01 03:08:52] * [PYG]Cerise takes Mary's hand in hers.
  907. [2008-09-01 03:08:58] <[PYG]Cerise> O-okay, lead the way then.
  908. [2008-09-01 03:09:59] * [Gat]Mary leads Cerise to the Medical Room, fingers gingerly trailing the wall
  909. [2008-09-01 03:10:29] * [PYG]Cerise had waited for that familiar hand. It's not as warm as Teilya's thou--NO! What are you thinking? This is Mary's hand! Mary's! You waited for this while you've been gone.
  910. [2008-09-01 03:11:05] * [PYG]Cerise tries to shake the thoughts off, focusing only on the sensation of Mary's hand.
  911. [2008-09-01 03:11:30] <[Gat]Mary> What's wrong? You're a little shaky, how bad are you hurt?
  912. [2008-09-01 03:12:32] * [Nom]Alexis lets Ludwig lead the way to the larder, keeping Teiyla behind and whispers to her in conspiratory fashion
  913. [2008-09-01 03:12:47] <[PYG]Cerise> Um...J-just some wounds on my legs and arms.
  914. [2008-09-01 03:12:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey, did you know? While you were gone, Ludwig proposed to Mary!"
  915. [2008-09-01 03:12:57] <[PYG]Cerise> Really, I was clumsy...
  916. [2008-09-01 03:13:21] * [Gat]Mary sneezes
  917. [2008-09-01 03:13:41] <[Gat]Mary> ah... Oh, this is it.
  918. [2008-09-01 03:13:51] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah! You have a cold?
  919. [2008-09-01 03:14:21] * [PB]Teilya blinks and looks at Alexis in surprise.
  920. [2008-09-01 03:14:32] <[PB]Teilya> R-Really?
  921. [2008-09-01 03:15:21] <[Gat]Mary> Oh... it's... nothing. It's uh, the heat, yeah. Messes with my sinuses.
  922. [2008-09-01 03:15:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "They're madly in love, but won't admit it! I think they're keeping the engagement a secret."
  923. [2008-09-01 03:16:13] * [PB]Teilya blinks again, then a smile appears on her face.
  924. [2008-09-01 03:16:44] <[PB]Teilya> T-That...That's so...
  925. [2008-09-01 03:16:50] * [Gat]Mary opens the door
  926. [2008-09-01 03:17:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Anyway, they don't get a lot of time with each other, so we must help them foster their beautiful relationship"
  927. [2008-09-01 03:17:29] <[PB]Teilya> That's so romantic! I must help the master to fulfill his wish!
  928. [2008-09-01 03:17:37] <[Gat]Mary> Take a seat on the bed, I'll prepare the medication.
  929. [2008-09-01 03:17:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "You get it, don't you? I knew you would."
  930. [2008-09-01 03:18:30] * [PYG]Cerise does as Mary asks, feeling a little anxious.
  931. [2008-09-01 03:19:07] * [Gat]Mary calls from the cabinet, facing away from Cerise:
  932. [2008-09-01 03:19:09] * [PB]Teilya looks at Alexis eagerly, tail wiggling from excitement.
  933. [2008-09-01 03:19:13] <[Gat]Mary> Where are you hurt?
  934. [2008-09-01 03:19:27] * [PYG]Cerise is caught in momentary bliss.
  935. [2008-09-01 03:19:46] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Huh? Oh! Uh...here...
  936. [2008-09-01 03:19:51] <[PB]Teilya> We must prepare! The wedding must be known throughout the land~! Oh~! I can see it now, so perfect...
  937. [2008-09-01 03:20:22] <[Gat]Mary> Here? Could you be a little more specific? God choose not to bless me with the power to read minds.
  938. [2008-09-01 03:20:46] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah, of course, sorry.
  939. [2008-09-01 03:21:04] <[PYG]Cerise> Hold on...
  940. [2008-09-01 03:21:28] * [PYG]Cerise undoes her apron, putting it on the bed next to her.
  941. [2008-09-01 03:21:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's right! Cerise doesn't know, does she? You should go tell her the good news when you get a chance."
  942. [2008-09-01 03:21:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll go make some preparations."
  943. [2008-09-01 03:22:16] * [PB]Teilya nods vigorously, a blissful smile on her face as she dreams about the perfect wedding.
  944. [2008-09-01 03:23:03] * [PYG]Cerise unbuttons her dress enough to reveal the wound right under her left rib.
  945. [2008-09-01 03:23:13] <[PYG]Cerise> Uh...
  946. [2008-09-01 03:23:16] * [Gat]Mary brings back the medical supplies, sits them next to Cerise
  947. [2008-09-01 03:23:28] <[PB]Teilya> Of course! I'll go tell Cerise when we finished stacking the boxes! She's going to be sooooooooooo surprised and happy she won't be able to say anything! I know it!
  948. [2008-09-01 03:23:37] <[PYG]Cerise> G-give me your hand, Mary, I'll show you.
  949. [2008-09-01 03:24:01] * [Gat]Mary snaps on a rubber glove
  950. [2008-09-01 03:24:04] <[Gat]Mary> Okay then.
  951. [2008-09-01 03:24:36] * [PYG]Cerise knots her eyebrows at the sight of the rubber glove. Damn, no skin to skin contact this time...
  952. [2008-09-01 03:26:59] <[PYG]Cerise> Some cuts under my left rib.
  953. [2008-09-01 03:27:31] <[Gat]Mary> This may sting a little...
  954. [2008-09-01 03:27:48] * [Gat]Mary dabs wound with alcohol
  955. [2008-09-01 03:28:06] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Mary, that's my navel.
  956. [2008-09-01 03:28:30] * [Gat]Mary blushes
  957. [2008-09-01 03:28:35] * [PYG]Cerise reaches out to guide Mary's hand to the would.
  958. [2008-09-01 03:28:36] <[Gat]Mary> Oh! sorry...
  959. [2008-09-01 03:28:43] <[PYG]Cerise> It's all right, none of us are perfect.
  960. [2008-09-01 03:29:23] * [Nom]Alexis sidles up to Ludwig
  961. [2008-09-01 03:29:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey, did you know that Mary's birthday is coming up?"
  962. [2008-09-01 03:29:52] <[GM]Ludwig> R-really?
  963. [2008-09-01 03:30:12] <[GM]Ludwig> I had no idea...
  964. [2008-09-01 03:30:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, yes! This is your chance to make a good impression!"
  965. [2008-09-01 03:30:21] <[GM]Ludwig> When is it?
  966. [2008-09-01 03:32:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, in just a few days now! I'm planning a bit of a surprise for her, and I need you to help. And as long as you DO AS I SAY, we'll make it a grand time."
  967. [2008-09-01 03:32:42] <[GM]Ludwig> A surprise party...
  968. [2008-09-01 03:32:54] * [GM]Ludwig gazes into the middle distance, mind whirling. Finally, he grins.
  969. [2008-09-01 03:32:59] <[GM]Ludwig> All right, count me in!
  970. [2008-09-01 03:33:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "Excellent! Now, here's what we do..."
  971. [2008-09-01 03:34:59] <[Gat]Mary> ...Okay, now where else are you hurt?
  972. [2008-09-01 03:35:30] <[PYG]Cerise> Ah...hold on...
  973. [2008-09-01 03:36:02] * [PYG]Cerise lifts her skirt up to where there are gashes on her right thigh.
  974. [2008-09-01 03:37:12] * [PYG]Cerise carefully takes Mary's hand and guides it to wound.
  975. [2008-09-01 03:37:18] <[PYG]Cerise> Right here...
  976. [2008-09-01 03:37:49] * [Gat]Mary slowly applies alcohol
  977. [2008-09-01 03:38:10] * [Gat]Mary applies styptic tape
  978. [2008-09-01 03:38:25] <[Gat]Mary> Alright, lift up your leg and I'll wrap this up.
  979. [2008-09-01 03:38:50] * [PYG]Cerise complies, her face getting a little red.
  980. [2008-09-01 03:39:25] * [Gat]Mary ....wraps it up.
  981. [2008-09-01 03:39:31] * [PYG]Cerise 's thoughts drift to what Teilya would do in this situati-NO! MARY'S IN FRONT OF YOU, PAY ATTENTION TO HER! ONLY HER!!
  982. [2008-09-01 03:41:43] <[PYG]Cerise> Th-thank you, Mary...
  983. [2008-09-01 03:42:27] * [Gat]Mary takes off the glove, hops up next to Cerise
  984. [2008-09-01 03:42:30] <[Gat]Mary> How do you feel?
  985. [2008-09-01 03:43:05] * [PYG]Cerise turns to look at Mary's face. She calms down a littl.e
  986. [2008-09-01 03:43:12] <[PYG]Cerise> Better...
  987. [2008-09-01 03:43:23] <[PYG]Cerise> Much better...
  988. [2008-09-01 03:43:47] * [Gat]Mary gives Cerise a pat on the back and smiles
  989. [2008-09-01 03:44:10] <[Gat]Mary> Good! Let's go eat with the others before they start without us.
  990. [2008-09-01 03:45:21] * [Gat]Mary hops down, hand stretched out
  991. [2008-09-01 03:45:34] * [PYG]Cerise takes her hand.
  992. [2008-09-01 03:45:43] <[PYG]Cerise> Shall I lead the way this time?
  993. [2008-09-01 03:46:05] <[Gat]Mary> If you would, please.
  994. [2008-09-01 03:46:13] <[GM]Tetro> {Aaaaaaaand, scene! That's a wrap, everybody!}
  995. [2008-09-01 03:46:41] <[Gat]Mary> Whew! Did I do okay? Was my smile off?
  996. [2008-09-01 03:47:06] <[PB]Teilya> I-I hope I did okay...
  997. [2008-09-01 03:47:11] <[GM]Tetro> You were beautiful, Mary-baby!
  998. [2008-09-01 03:47:11] <[PYG]Cerise> Let go of me, bitch!
  999. [2008-09-01 03:47:23] <[PB]Teilya> Cerise~
  1000. [2008-09-01 03:47:24] <[PYG]Cerise> I'm going out for a smoke.
  1001. [2008-09-01 03:47:33] <[PYG]Cerise> The fuck do you want?
  1002. [2008-09-01 03:47:42] <[Gat]Mary> :<
  1003. [2008-09-01 03:47:44] <[PB]Teilya> Wanna go out?
  1004. [2008-09-01 03:47:53] <[Gat]Mary> :>
  1005. [2008-09-01 03:47:55] <[PYG]Cerise> Nah, I'm...Busy.
  1006. [2008-09-01 03:48:13] <[PB]Teilya> I know this AWESOME store, should be a blast!
  1007. [2008-09-01 03:48:30] <[PB]Teilya> Come on! It'll be fun! Let's go wild!
  1008. [2008-09-01 03:48:32] <[PYG]Cerise> Fuck off, furry.
  1009. [2008-09-01 03:48:54] <[PB]Teilya> Oh come on~ You know you like them.
  1010. [2008-09-01 03:49:01] <[Gat]Mary> uh.. umm... I wouldn't mind going, Teilya...
  1011. [2008-09-01 03:49:06] * [PB]Teilya slides tail up Cerise's arms.
  1012. [2008-09-01 03:49:12] <[PB]Teilya> Oh?
  1013. [2008-09-01 03:49:30] <[PYG]Cerise> Bitch, get your tail off, or do you want me to rip it off and strangle you with it?
  1014. [2008-09-01 03:49:31] <[PB]Teilya> Well, the more the merrier!
  1015. [2008-09-01 03:49:47] <[PB]Teilya> Oh boo, how tsundere Cerise~
  1016. [2008-09-01 03:50:09] <[GM]Tetro> All right, clear the set! Studio needs the soundstage for some "Pirates in Gensokyo" flick!
  1017. [2008-09-01 03:50:37] <[Gat]Mary> Oh! I love Pirates...
  1018.  
  1019.  
  1020.  
  1021.  
  1022.  
  1023.  
  1024.  
  1025.  
  1026. @@---
  1027. @@=====
  1028. @@Session Two
  1029. @@=====
  1030. @@---
  1031.  
  1032. [2008-09-05 21:23:12] <[GM]Tetro> Last week, on "Beetleoven Fortress"...
  1033. [2008-09-05 21:23:54] <[GM]Tetro> Teilya and Cerise had just completed a mission gathering supplies from the outside, bringing back enough food and sundries to last for months.
  1034. [2008-09-05 21:25:07] <[GM]Tetro> However, on the mission, they ran afoul of a small mercenary group trying to raid the same armory, and only barely escaped due to the timely intervention of a lost robot weapon.
  1035. [2008-09-05 21:26:35] <[GM]Tetro> Love, however, proved able to bloom on the battlefield, and their hearts began beating for each other, much to Cerise's (who already had a heavy crush on fellow maid Mary) dismay.
  1036. [2008-09-05 21:26:53] <[GM]Tetro> ...why am I expositing all this? Go read the damn logs, you lazy farts.
  1037. [2008-09-05 21:26:59] <[GM]Tetro> Dinner time.
  1038. [2008-09-05 21:28:41] * [Nom]Alexis continues to conspire with Teiyla
  1039. [2008-09-05 21:29:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey, I need some supplies for the wedding party. Can you help with these?"
  1040. [2008-09-05 21:30:30] * [PB]Teilya quickly nods a few times with a huge smile
  1041. [2008-09-05 21:30:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "And oh, I'm hoping to spring it as a bit of a surprise for the two of them, so we musn't say a word about it until then."
  1042. [2008-09-05 21:31:19] <[PB]Teilya> Nya! My lips are sealed! What do you want me to do~?
  1043. [2008-09-05 21:32:30] * [Nom]Alexis hands Teilya a list consisting of party supplies, decorations, lighting equipment and a a microphone stand
  1044. [2008-09-05 21:32:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, we'll need all this, first off"
  1045. [2008-09-05 21:33:43] * [PB]Teilya takes the list with her hands and scans over them, smile getting bigger and bigger as she goes
  1046. [2008-09-05 21:33:59] <[PB]Teilya> Alright nya! Leave it to me~!
  1047. [2008-09-05 21:34:28] * [PB]Teilya pats herself on the chest, and quickly scurries off to get the things needed
  1048. [2008-09-05 21:36:30] * [Nom]Alexis hollers down the hall
  1049. [2008-09-05 21:36:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary! Come help me with dinner, darling!"
  1050. [2008-09-05 21:37:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, looks like dinner's starting.
  1051. [2008-09-05 21:37:16] <[Gtz]Mary> You want to help us, Cerise?
  1052. [2008-09-05 21:37:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> Of course I would!
  1053. [2008-09-05 21:38:27] <[Gtz]Mary> Excellent! Come on, we should hurry. Everyone is waiting.
  1054. [2008-09-05 21:38:54] <[GM]Ludwig> {Skill Check for dinner making.}
  1055. [2008-09-05 21:39:12] * [Pyg]Cerise reassures herself. Yes, spend more time with Mary. That will drive away the thoughts of Miss Teilya!
  1056. [2008-09-05 21:39:18] <[GM]Ludwig> {Whenever you're in the kitchen, that is.}
  1057. [2008-09-05 21:39:32] * [Gtz]Mary and Cerise arrive at the kitchen
  1058. [2008-09-05 21:40:18] <[Gtz]Mary> What are we preparing for tonight?
  1059. [2008-09-05 21:40:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise agreed to help us, so I brought her along.
  1060. [2008-09-05 21:40:53] * [PB]Teilya skips out of the warehouse and back to the dinning room, humming a tune to herself. It's time to set things up while the others are busy!
  1061. [2008-09-05 21:40:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm thinking of...by the by, Mary, when's your birthday?"
  1062. [2008-09-05 21:43:28] * [Pyg]Cerise 's thoughts are put to a halt for a moment. Mary's birthday! Ah, what could I that you won't need to appreciate with eyesight?
  1063. [2008-09-05 21:43:54] <[Gtz]Mary> April the eighteenth. Why?
  1064. [2008-09-05 21:45:00] <[GM]Ludwig> {[PB]Teilya rolled Cunning to stealthily set things up. 6 x 2 is 12, a rousing success.}
  1065. [2008-09-05 21:45:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Just wondering"
  1066. [2008-09-05 21:45:58] * [Nom]Alexis bakes a cake
  1067. [2008-09-05 21:46:23] * [PB]Teilya begins to silently pull things out of her pockets, setting things up secretly with reflex and cunning of a cat. The things are so secretive no one will even notice it until she springs it on them.
  1068. [2008-09-05 21:48:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "Say, did you girls know that today is employee appreciation day? Let's make something nice."
  1069. [2008-09-05 21:50:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> What do you have in mind?
  1070. [2008-09-05 21:51:32] <[GM]Ludwig> {Combined Skill check between Alexis, Mary and Cerise is 31. Dinner's gonna be goooooood.}
  1071. [2008-09-05 21:52:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Thanks to you and Teilya we're pretty well stocked now. Let's go all out"
  1072. [2008-09-05 21:54:35] <[GM]Ludwig> {Individual checks were 18, 3, and 12, respectively. So, 33, actually. What is maths?}
  1073. [2008-09-05 21:56:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Let's see, where's that basil...
  1074. [2008-09-05 21:57:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary? Mary, darling? People can die like that."
  1075. [2008-09-05 21:57:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh? what do you mean?
  1076. [2008-09-05 21:57:38] * [Gtz]Mary brings the "basil" up to her nose and sniffs
  1077. [2008-09-05 21:57:48] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Oh! whoops!
  1078. [2008-09-05 21:58:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Cerise, can you help go over and help Mary? I think our spice cupboard has been wrongly arranged."
  1079. [2008-09-05 21:58:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay.
  1080. [2008-09-05 22:00:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let's see, we've got a salad, veal, bread...oh, we need soup. What shall we do for soup?"
  1081. [2008-09-05 22:01:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Do we have any beef left?
  1082. [2008-09-05 22:02:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sure do. Rack to your left, dear."
  1083. [2008-09-05 22:02:39] * [Pyg]Cerise looks into the cupboard, at highest her tiptoes could allow her. She picks off a few of the appropriate spices they'll need.
  1084. [2008-09-05 22:04:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Umm... I'm not finding it. Are you sure it's on the rack?
  1085. [2008-09-05 22:05:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary, just turn to the left a little bit.
  1086. [2008-09-05 22:05:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "We also have lean meat in the fridge; not sure what it's of though. Give it a try."
  1087. [2008-09-05 22:06:39] <[Gtz]Mary> okay, I'll do that. Cerise, could you fetch the vegetables and put on some water?
  1088. [2008-09-05 22:07:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Right away, Mary!
  1089. [2008-09-05 22:09:00] * [Gtz]Mary after many instances of trial and error, successfully retrieves the beef
  1090. [2008-09-05 22:09:51] * [Pyg]Cerise gets the water to start boiling and walks over the the refrigerator, picking out the needed ingredients.
  1091. [2008-09-05 22:10:24] * [Nom]Alexis finds some green stuff in the fridge
  1092. [2008-09-05 22:10:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "I wonder what this is."
  1093. [2008-09-05 22:10:37] * [Nom]Alexis does a taste test
  1094. [2008-09-05 22:10:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, spicy. Oh well."
  1095. [2008-09-05 22:10:59] * [Nom]Alexis holds onto it for later
  1096. [2008-09-05 22:11:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary! I'm almost done here, how's the soup going?"
  1097. [2008-09-05 22:11:52] * [Gtz]Mary starts chopping up celery, tomatoes, beef, whatever's good
  1098. [2008-09-05 22:11:58] <[Gtz]Mary> It's going.
  1099. [2008-09-05 22:12:25] * [Gtz]Mary chop chop chop chop
  1100. [2008-09-05 22:13:07] * [Nom]Alexis starts grinding some chilli peppers
  1101. [2008-09-05 22:14:53] * [Nom]Alexis start breaking out the dinnerware
  1102. [2008-09-05 22:15:15] * [Pyg]Cerise adjusts the dial on the stove to lower the heat on the boiling water.
  1103. [2008-09-05 22:17:18] * [Nom]Alexis starts setting up the table
  1104. [2008-09-05 22:21:20] <[GM]Ludwig> {Blah blah blah, and dinner is served or something.}
  1105. [2008-09-05 22:22:00] * [Nom]Alexis finishes setting up dinner, arranging the places, and slipping pepper into Ludwig's soup
  1106. [2008-09-05 22:22:53] * [Pyg]Cerise walks up behind Alexis.
  1107. [2008-09-05 22:23:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Alexis, shall I fetch the master out of his room?
  1108. [2008-09-05 22:23:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "That'd be excellent. Thank you, Cerise."
  1109. [2008-09-05 22:24:39] * [Nom]Alexis whistles while adding some of that green stuff to the master's dinner
  1110. [2008-09-05 22:25:38] * [Pyg]Cerise nods and heads off out of the dining room and into the main hallway, making a left and climbing the grand staircase. She reaches Master Ludwig's room and knocks on the door.
  1111. [2008-09-05 22:26:04] <[GM]Ludwig> Whah?! Uh... come in?
  1112. [2008-09-05 22:26:37] * [Pyg]Cerise slowly opens the door.
  1113. [2008-09-05 22:27:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> Supper is ready, Mast--Is something the matter?
  1114. [2008-09-05 22:27:54] * [GM]Ludwig is standing with his back to the door, facing a full-length mirror. Around his neck is tied a long red cape, perhaps just a size too large for him, and at his feet are about a dozen hats of various colors and designs. As you enter, he throws one down and picks up another, placing it on his head and frowning at his reflection.
  1115. [2008-09-05 22:29:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Matter? Uh, hm. Sort of. Not really. Do you like hats, Miss Cerise?
  1116. [2008-09-05 22:30:14] * [Pyg]Cerise raises her eyebrow at the question.
  1117. [2008-09-05 22:31:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Never mind. Stupid question. Dinner's ready?
  1118. [2008-09-05 22:31:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> Er, yes. Yes, it is.
  1119. [2008-09-05 22:31:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> But, why are you wearing a cape to dinner?
  1120. [2008-09-05 22:32:50] * [GM]Ludwig lets the last hat fall from his hands onto the pile, then swings the excess cape over one shoulder and turns around. The rest of his outfit is similarly... grandiose.
  1121. [2008-09-05 22:33:25] <[GM]Ludwig> A master must always look his best before his servants, don't you agree?
  1122. [2008-09-05 22:33:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> Isn't that the other way around, Master?
  1123. [2008-09-05 22:33:45] * [GM]Ludwig half-turns back to the mirror and runs a quick hand through his hair.
  1124. [2008-09-05 22:34:04] <[GM]Ludwig> Is it?
  1125. [2008-09-05 22:34:12] * [GM]Ludwig looks suddenly uncertain.
  1126. [2008-09-05 22:34:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh.
  1127. [2008-09-05 22:35:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, never mind.
  1128. [2008-09-05 22:35:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Let's go.
  1129. [2008-09-05 22:35:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> Very well.
  1130. [2008-09-05 22:35:44] * [Nom]Alexis rings the dinner bell
  1131. [2008-09-05 22:35:56] * [GM]Ludwig steps over the hats and heads out the door, proceeding Cerise.
  1132. [2008-09-05 22:36:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "DINNER IS UPON US, MORTA--I mean, come and get it!"
  1133. [2008-09-05 22:37:03] * [GM]Ludwig slows his pace as he approaches the stairway down, falling in beside the maid.
  1134. [2008-09-05 22:37:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Say, uh, Cerise...
  1135. [2008-09-05 22:37:11] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm?
  1136. [2008-09-05 22:37:23] <[GM]Ludwig> You're pretty close to Mary, aren't you? I mean like, good friends?
  1137. [2008-09-05 22:37:32] * [PB]Teilya happily skips up to Alexis out of nowhere, trying to act normal sort of unsuccessfully.
  1138. [2008-09-05 22:38:09] * [Nom]Alexis gives her a questioning look
  1139. [2008-09-05 22:38:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> C-close to Mary? Er...Yes! Yes, we're very good friends in fact!
  1140. [2008-09-05 22:38:36] * [PB]Teilya siddles up Alexis and begin to whisper to her.
  1141. [2008-09-05 22:38:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> You could say I almost know everything about her!
  1142. [2008-09-05 22:38:55] * [GM]Ludwig brightens up as you begin descending the staircase.
  1143. [2008-09-05 22:38:56] <[PB]Teilya> Everything's done, no one will know until the moment's right!
  1144. [2008-09-05 22:39:04] * [Nom]Alexis beams
  1145. [2008-09-05 22:39:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Good, good! Then, could you... er... what does she like? Mary, I mean?
  1146. [2008-09-05 22:40:45] <[GM]Ludwig> See, I'm thinking of getting her something for her birthday. It's coming up, you know. And, well, I realized I don't really know a whole lot about her, so...
  1147. [2008-09-05 22:43:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well...She likes to read poetry in the her quarters when she's all by herself.
  1148. [2008-09-05 22:44:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Poetry, eh... I see! Thank you, Cerise, you were a great help!
  1149. [2008-09-05 22:45:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> If I may say so, it's quite kind of you to do this for Mary, Master.
  1150. [2008-09-05 22:47:38] * [GM]Ludwig calls down the hallway:
  1151. [2008-09-05 22:47:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master~! Mary's cooking is getting cold~!"
  1152. [2008-09-05 22:47:52] <[GM]Ludwig> We're almost there, Alexis! Sorry to keep you all waiting!
  1153. [2008-09-05 22:47:54] * [Pyg]Cerise 's mind stands to attention at the word "wooing". WHAT.
  1154. [2008-09-05 22:48:32] <[GM]Ludwig> C'mon, Cerise, let's hurry!
  1155. [2008-09-05 22:48:40] * [GM]Ludwig doubles his pace towards the dining room.
  1156. [2008-09-05 22:48:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh? Oh, right away, Master.
  1157. [2008-09-05 22:49:08] * [Pyg]Cerise follows suit, quickening her pace as well.
  1158. [2008-09-05 22:50:08] * [Gtz]Mary is waiting patiently for everyone to take their seat
  1159. [2008-09-05 22:50:15] <[GM]Ludwig> {And in this fashion, everyone gathered at the table for dinner.}
  1160. [2008-09-05 22:50:28] * [Pyg]Cerise tries to process what her master just said. Wooing? Wooing Mary? WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED WHILE I WAS GONE?!
  1161. [2008-09-05 22:50:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Shall we join hands?
  1162. [2008-09-05 22:50:52] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, of course!
  1163. [2008-09-05 22:50:54] * [Nom]Alexis makes sure to sit near Cerise and Mary
  1164. [2008-09-05 22:51:15] <[GM]Ludwig> {Hang on. Maybe we'd better make seating arrangements.}
  1165. [2008-09-05 22:51:25] <[GM]Ludwig> {Ludwig's gonna want to be sitting next to Mary for sure.}
  1166. [2008-09-05 22:53:33] <[GM]Ludwig> {Round table, clockwise order: Ludwig, Teilya, Cerise, Alexis, Mary.}
  1167. [2008-09-05 22:53:56] * [PB]Teilya happily skips over towards Cerise and takes a seat besides her
  1168. [2008-09-05 22:54:03] * [Pyg]Cerise quickly to what would usually be a seat next to Mary but finds Master Ludwig and Alexis already occupying those places. Hmm, better luck next time I suppose.
  1169. [2008-09-05 22:55:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright then, let's bow our heads...
  1170. [2008-09-05 22:55:29] * [GM]Ludwig takes Mary's and Teilya's hands in his own and bows his head reverently.
  1171. [2008-09-05 22:55:51] * [Nom]Alexis is the kind who looks around while everyone'e praying
  1172. [2008-09-05 22:56:00] * [Pyg]Cerise realizes who is beside her after taking her seat. Oh, this doesn't seem too bad at al-NO! Look at Mary! ...But Miss Teilya's hand is so warm and soft...
  1173. [2008-09-05 22:56:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Dear heavenly Father, thank you for this food dear Lord, may it nourish our bodies, bless the hands that prepared it. Please watch out for our loved ones and keep them safe. May you lead us and guide us. In Your name I pray, Amen. Let's eat!
  1174. [2008-09-05 22:56:24] * [PB]Teilya smiles at Ludwig, then also bows as she takes Cerise's hands. Ah, this is her day~
  1175. [2008-09-05 22:56:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Amen!
  1176. [2008-09-05 22:56:59] <[PB]Teilya> Amen nya~!
  1177. [2008-09-05 22:57:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Our soup today is curtesy of Mary"
  1178. [2008-09-05 22:57:31] * [Nom]Alexis winks at Ludwig
  1179. [2008-09-05 22:58:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, please, I would have made quite a mess if it wasn't for you two.
  1180. [2008-09-05 22:58:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't be so humble, Mary, it was all you."
  1181. [2008-09-05 22:58:44] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm sure it's quite delicious, Mary.
  1182. [2008-09-05 22:59:13] * [GM]Ludwig takes a couple ladlefuls into his bowl and passes the pot to Mary.
  1183. [2008-09-05 23:00:22] * [Gtz]Mary does the same, very carefully
  1184. [2008-09-05 23:01:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh, and someone found a use for those old beetlesteaks in the fridge?
  1185. [2008-09-05 23:01:27] * [Nom]Alexis also does it ladles very carefully, for different reasons, and passes it on
  1186. [2008-09-05 23:02:39] * [Pyg]Cerise takes the pot from Alexis, putting in enough into her bowl before carefully handing it to Teilya.
  1187. [2008-09-05 23:03:25] * [GM]Ludwig waits for everyone to be served before digging in, but leans in and smells the soup up close.
  1188. [2008-09-05 23:03:38] <[GM]Ludwig> It really does smell good, Mary. What did you use in it?
  1189. [2008-09-05 23:03:46] * [PB]Teilya takes the pot with a smile, and seeing as everyone already have their fill, digs in happily
  1190. [2008-09-05 23:04:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "I think I'll go get drinks~"
  1191. [2008-09-05 23:04:42] * [GM]Ludwig starts in on the soup.
  1192. [2008-09-05 23:04:43] <[Gtz]Mary> umm... carrots, corn, beef, potatoes, and some celery...
  1193. [2008-09-05 23:05:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis handled the spices, I couldn't find them.
  1194. [2008-09-05 23:05:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh? Were they put away somewh--
  1195. [2008-09-05 23:06:27] * [GM]Ludwig stops in mid-sentence, a dawning look on his face as he realizes why Mary, MARY, couldn't find the spices. He looks down at his clothing and turns beet red.
  1196. [2008-09-05 23:07:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh, well, it's, uh... it's still really good, I think...
  1197. [2008-09-05 23:07:45] * [Nom]Alexis returns from kitchen
  1198. [2008-09-05 23:08:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmmm, it is~
  1199. [2008-09-05 23:08:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "I have family-safe-alcohol-free breverages~"
  1200. [2008-09-05 23:08:58] * [GM]Ludwig looks up at Alexis' entry. "Wouldn't mind a drink right now, actually, but oh well," he mutters to himself.
  1201. [2008-09-05 23:09:24] * [Pyg]Cerise quietly listening to Ludwig and Mary's conversation. Hmm, yes, whatever it was, it had to have happened sometime while she was out with Teilya. It couldn't have happened any other time, she had her eyes on Mary the whole time!
  1202. [2008-09-05 23:09:37] * [Nom]Alexis takes the initiative to serve Ludwig a drink, taking the opportunity to lean down and whisper to him
  1203. [2008-09-05 23:10:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary used her secret ingredients."
  1204. [2008-09-05 23:10:15] * [Nom]Alexis winks
  1205. [2008-09-05 23:10:31] * [Gtz]Mary eats quietly
  1206. [2008-09-05 23:10:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Awha? Secret...?
  1207. [2008-09-05 23:10:58] * [PB]Teilya finishes her soup and beams at Mary
  1208. [2008-09-05 23:11:12] <[PB]Teilya> The soup is AWESOME nya!
  1209. [2008-09-05 23:11:21] * [GM]Ludwig glances between Mary and Alexis, slightly confused, before taking another experimental sip of the soup.
  1210. [2008-09-05 23:11:51] <[Gtz]Mary> You should help us cook more often, Cerise. You did a very fine job~
  1211. [2008-09-05 23:12:49] <[GM]Ludwig> I must agree. The food is most excellent, tonight. Well done, all of you.
  1212. [2008-09-05 23:12:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha-? Oh, yes. I'd be very glad to! Um, thank you, Mary.
  1213. [2008-09-05 23:13:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Made with love~"
  1214. [2008-09-05 23:14:37] * [GM]Ludwig tucks into his beetlesteak and tries not to choke at Alexis' comment.
  1215. [2008-09-05 23:15:02] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm always happy to have help in the kitchen. Perhaps Mr. Beetleoven would like to help sometime~
  1216. [2008-09-05 23:15:15] <[GM]Ludwig> M-me?!
  1217. [2008-09-05 23:15:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Share the love~"
  1218. [2008-09-05 23:15:22] * [GM]Ludwig really does choke now.
  1219. [2008-09-05 23:16:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm? Are you alright?
  1220. [2008-09-05 23:16:32] <[Gtz]Mary> Mr. Beetleoven?
  1221. [2008-09-05 23:16:33] * [GM]Ludwig coughs a few times before he can reply.
  1222. [2008-09-05 23:16:43] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Master you okay?
  1223. [2008-09-05 23:16:54] <[GM]Ludwig> I, I'm fine, thank you. I'd be glad to help you any time, Mary.
  1224. [2008-09-05 23:17:30] * [Pyg]Cerise realizes she hasn't touched her soup yet, and quickly remedies that with a few spoonfuls.
  1225. [2008-09-05 23:18:15] * [GM]Ludwig washes his throat clear with a few swallows of tea.
  1226. [2008-09-05 23:18:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, very good. You can help out at breakfast tomorrow, does that sound good?
  1227. [2008-09-05 23:19:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, good! Great! It sounds great!
  1228. [2008-09-05 23:19:45] <[PB]Teilya> Oh oh! Can I help out too?
  1229. [2008-09-05 23:20:06] * [GM]Ludwig looks over at Teilya uncertainly.
  1230. [2008-09-05 23:20:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Of course.
  1231. [2008-09-05 23:20:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh...
  1232. [2008-09-05 23:20:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh.
  1233. [2008-09-05 23:20:40] <[PB]Teilya> YAY~! Master never lets me into the kitchen before! Now I can see what it's like nya!
  1234. [2008-09-05 23:20:42] * [GM]Ludwig cuts off another chunk of beetlemeat, his enthusiasm diminished somewhat.
  1235. [2008-09-05 23:21:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise? You've been unusually quiet lately. Do you feel well?
  1236. [2008-09-05 23:21:19] * [Pyg]Cerise continues eating the rest of the meal in quiet thou--
  1237. [2008-09-05 23:21:31] * [PB]Teilya blinks and then looks at Cerise
  1238. [2008-09-05 23:21:33] * [GM]Ludwig perks up a little at Teilya's remark.
  1239. [2008-09-05 23:21:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> M-me?
  1240. [2008-09-05 23:22:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, I must be tired. Exhausting afternoon, after all.
  1241. [2008-09-05 23:22:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Tell us about your trip with Teilya, it must have been quite something to get those cuts on you like that.
  1242. [2008-09-05 23:22:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, that's right, Teilya, I'm afraid you can't help us tomorrow. We wouldn't want cat hair in all our new foodstuffs, you know.
  1243. [2008-09-05 23:22:32] <[GM]Ludwig> And you do tend to shed a lot. No offense.
  1244. [2008-09-05 23:22:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "Cerise is tired, too, right? We can make them breakfast in bed~"
  1245. [2008-09-05 23:23:16] <[PB]Teilya> Aww...but...nya...
  1246. [2008-09-05 23:23:21] * [Pyg]Cerise holds back making a spittake.
  1247. [2008-09-05 23:23:30] * [PB]Teilya looks downtrodden, but nods anyway.
  1248. [2008-09-05 23:23:37] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm sorry, Teilya.
  1249. [2008-09-05 23:23:43] * [GM]Ludwig tries to sound like he means it.
  1250. [2008-09-05 23:23:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Mr. Beetleoven, surely you must be joking.
  1251. [2008-09-05 23:23:53] * [PB]Teilya shakes her head lightly and tries to smile.
  1252. [2008-09-05 23:24:07] <[PB]Teilya> It's okay, since it's master's orders.
  1253. [2008-09-05 23:24:30] <[PB]Teilya> I'll just spend the morning with Cerise then.
  1254. [2008-09-05 23:24:53] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Well, that's fine as well.
  1255. [2008-09-05 23:24:56] * [GM]Ludwig reaches over with one hand and squeezes Teilya's shoulder reassuringly.
  1256. [2008-09-05 23:25:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Yoo-hoo! earth to Cerise! Did we lose you, baby?
  1257. [2008-09-05 23:25:27] * [Pyg]Cerise feels her cheeks flush a little. Spending the morning with Miss Teilya? Hmm...
  1258. [2008-09-05 23:26:15] * [Pyg]Cerise thinks. Hey, Mary, was trying to talk to you!
  1259. [2008-09-05 23:27:42] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, it's...It's nothing really big, Mary. Just some scavengers.
  1260. [2008-09-05 23:28:21] * [PB]Teilya frowns as she remembers those men.
  1261. [2008-09-05 23:28:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Scavengers? You met other survivors?
  1262. [2008-09-05 23:28:34] <[PB]Teilya> They're very bad men!
  1263. [2008-09-05 23:28:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Survivors?
  1264. [2008-09-05 23:28:49] * [GM]Ludwig is instantly interested.
  1265. [2008-09-05 23:29:02] * [PB]Teilya looks worrily at Ludwig
  1266. [2008-09-05 23:29:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, we can't have that, can we? Oh ho ho!"
  1267. [2008-09-05 23:29:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, what happened?
  1268. [2008-09-05 23:30:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> It seems like they've been doing their scavenger thing for a while now.
  1269. [2008-09-05 23:30:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Though, at least for one of them, at the cost of sanity.
  1270. [2008-09-05 23:30:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Is that so...
  1271. [2008-09-05 23:30:48] <[Gtz]Mary> Did they have anything to say?
  1272. [2008-09-05 23:30:50] <[GM]Ludwig> I see...
  1273. [2008-09-05 23:30:55] <[PB]Teilya> They didn't even listen to us!
  1274. [2008-09-05 23:31:25] <[GM]Ludwig> I take it they attacked you. And... I take it you had to defend yourselves?
  1275. [2008-09-05 23:31:56] * [Gtz]Mary expression grows serious.
  1276. [2008-09-05 23:31:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> We did, quite badly though. They were quite skilled.
  1277. [2008-09-05 23:32:25] <[GM]Ludwig> How did you manage to escape?
  1278. [2008-09-05 23:33:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> It was all in such a rush. Suddenly a large robot just came down on the armory!
  1279. [2008-09-05 23:34:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> A huge robot!
  1280. [2008-09-05 23:34:14] <[GM]Ludwig> A robot?
  1281. [2008-09-05 23:34:32] <[Gtz]Mary> A robot...
  1282. [2008-09-05 23:34:47] <[GM]Ludwig> How curious...
  1283. [2008-09-05 23:34:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> I didn't stick around for very long. Miss Teilya ran off and I didn't want her to get lost out there.
  1284. [2008-09-05 23:35:51] <[GM]Ludwig> So, you don't know what may have happened to the other survivors?
  1285. [2008-09-05 23:36:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> All I know is that the armory exploded. I didn't bother to check what was left.
  1286. [2008-09-05 23:36:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> Probably took the rest of the munitions with it.
  1287. [2008-09-05 23:36:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Exploded?! The whole armory?
  1288. [2008-09-05 23:37:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Wow...
  1289. [2008-09-05 23:37:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Good heavens...
  1290. [2008-09-05 23:37:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's a shame...what will we do for munitions from now on?"
  1291. [2008-09-05 23:37:24] * [PB]Teilya just stares at her food in silence.
  1292. [2008-09-05 23:38:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, it isn't likely to have been the last armory left in this world. I'll just have to start sending you out to somewhere else from now on.
  1293. [2008-09-05 23:38:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Still, survivors, out in the wastelands... that IS interesting...
  1294. [2008-09-05 23:38:40] <[Gtz]Mary> I wonder what's become of them...
  1295. [2008-09-05 23:38:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> I didn't think robots would still be operational in this day and age either.
  1296. [2008-09-05 23:39:07] * [PB]Teilya whispers to herself.
  1297. [2008-09-05 23:39:20] <[PB]Teilya> I hope they all disappear forever...
  1298. [2008-09-05 23:40:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> Did you say something, Miss Teilya?
  1299. [2008-09-05 23:40:29] * [PB]Teilya looks up in surprise, and starts shaking her head frantically
  1300. [2008-09-05 23:40:42] <[PB]Teilya> N-Nya! N-Nothing! I didn't say anything!
  1301. [2008-09-05 23:40:56] <[Gtz]Mary> It's a good thing that robot showed up though, huh? Who knows what would have happened if it didn't stop those bandits...
  1302. [2008-09-05 23:41:06] * [Gtz]Mary 's expression darkens
  1303. [2008-09-05 23:41:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Yeah...
  1304. [2008-09-05 23:42:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "I KNOW--I mean, yes, it would have been dreadful!"
  1305. [2008-09-05 23:42:20] * [GM]Ludwig stares pensively at the remains of his dinner.
  1306. [2008-09-05 23:42:44] * [Gtz]Mary finishes her meal
  1307. [2008-09-05 23:42:45] <[GM]Ludwig> If there are still people surviving out there, despite the insects, it makes me wonder what else I don't know.
  1308. [2008-09-05 23:42:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, that was good! Thanks, everyone.
  1309. [2008-09-05 23:43:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, yes, let's not be so down. We should liven up a bit."
  1310. [2008-09-05 23:43:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> What do you mean, Master?
  1311. [2008-09-05 23:43:23] * [GM]Ludwig shakes his head to clear his mood.
  1312. [2008-09-05 23:43:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Did you ever make contact with other survivors, Mr. Beetleoven?
  1313. [2008-09-05 23:43:31] <[GM]Ludwig> Never mind, Alexis is right.
  1314. [2008-09-05 23:44:08] <[GM]Ludwig> We'll deal with that matter some other time.
  1315. [2008-09-05 23:44:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Of course I am. Lights please."
  1316. [2008-09-05 23:44:30] * [Pyg]Cerise looks over at Teilya and feels a strange urge to pet her head.
  1317. [2008-09-05 23:44:34] * [Nom]Alexis give Teilyaa a signal
  1318. [2008-09-05 23:45:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Lights?
  1319. [2008-09-05 23:45:19] * [PB]Teilya misses the signal as she continues to mop.
  1320. [2008-09-05 23:45:38] * [Nom]Alexis sighs. So hard to find good help these days.
  1321. [2008-09-05 23:45:54] * [Nom]Alexis kicks Teilya under the table
  1322. [2008-09-05 23:45:58] * [Gtz]Mary takes her dishes to the sink
  1323. [2008-09-05 23:46:21] * [GM]Ludwig hastily grabs his own and follows Mary into the kitchen for a while.
  1324. [2008-09-05 23:46:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary! Psst, Mary!
  1325. [2008-09-05 23:46:38] * [PB]Teilya yelps slightly and looks up, and then gasps a little and scurries to work.
  1326. [2008-09-05 23:46:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, what is it?
  1327. [2008-09-05 23:46:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Um... do you have plans for this evening?
  1328. [2008-09-05 23:47:06] <[GM]Ludwig> There's something I want to talk to you about...
  1329. [2008-09-05 23:47:29] * [Nom]Alexis makes hurried hand signals
  1330. [2008-09-05 23:48:14] * [Pyg]Cerise is still at the table wondering what Alexis and Teilya are up to as she downs the rest of her glass.
  1331. [2008-09-05 23:48:25] <[Gtz]Mary> I was just going to wash off and head on to bed. Is there something you need me for?
  1332. [2008-09-05 23:48:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, um, yes. It won't take long, though.
  1333. [2008-09-05 23:48:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teiyla! Lights!"
  1334. [2008-09-05 23:49:15] * [PB]Teilya hurriedly pulls the hidden lever down.
  1335. [2008-09-05 23:49:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Come up to my room before you turn in, and we'll discuss it.
  1336. [2008-09-05 23:49:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Okay then.
  1337. [2008-09-05 23:49:49] <[GM]Tetro> Suddenly, the lights in the dining room go out, leaving only two spotlights shining on a microphone stand.
  1338. [2008-09-05 23:50:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wait, what?
  1339. [2008-09-05 23:50:05] * [GM]Ludwig notices the change from the dining room.
  1340. [2008-09-05 23:50:08] <[GM]Ludwig> What in the world...?
  1341. [2008-09-05 23:50:23] <[Gtz]Mary> hm? What's wrong?
  1342. [2008-09-05 23:50:35] <[GM]Ludwig> Something's going on in there...
  1343. [2008-09-05 23:50:42] * [Nom]Alexis hurries over to grab Ludwig
  1344. [2008-09-05 23:50:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, master, it's your cue!"
  1345. [2008-09-05 23:50:54] * [GM]Ludwig takes Mary's hand just as Alexis takes his.
  1346. [2008-09-05 23:50:58] <[GM]Ludwig> C-cue?! What?
  1347. [2008-09-05 23:51:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Umm...
  1348. [2008-09-05 23:51:13] <[Gtz]Mary> What are you doing?
  1349. [2008-09-05 23:51:13] * [Nom]Alexis whispers panicedly
  1350. [2008-09-05 23:51:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "have you written a speech? You need a speech!"
  1351. [2008-09-05 23:51:33] * [Nom]Alexis slips Ludwig a piece of paper
  1352. [2008-09-05 23:51:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Speech!?
  1353. [2008-09-05 23:51:35] <[Gtz]Mary> A speech?
  1354. [2008-09-05 23:51:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "never mind, take this"
  1355. [2008-09-05 23:51:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh, okay...
  1356. [2008-09-05 23:52:01] * [Pyg]Cerise sits in the dark, thinking. Fancy clothes...Asking what Mary would like..."Wooing"...NO. OH GOD, NO!
  1357. [2008-09-05 23:52:05] * [Nom]Alexis pushes Ludwig towards the stage
  1358. [2008-09-05 23:52:12] * [Gtz]Mary sigh.
  1359. [2008-09-05 23:52:15] * [PB]Teilya bounces over towards Cerise
  1360. [2008-09-05 23:52:28] * [Nom]Alexis takes Mary to a table
  1361. [2008-09-05 23:52:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh? What are we doing?
  1362. [2008-09-05 23:52:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary, dear, you're employee of the month! Congratulations!"
  1363. [2008-09-05 23:52:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14Eh? M-Miss Teilya, what exactly is going on here?
  1364. [2008-09-05 23:53:02] * [GM]Ludwig stumbles up onto the stage. Looking around, he notices the red carpet on the ground, and the large "CONGRATULATIONS" banner hanging over his head. How did he miss this all through dinner?
  1365. [2008-09-05 23:53:05] <[Gtz]Mary> yes, what exactly is going on here?
  1366. [2008-09-05 23:53:11] <[PB]Teilya> 14Shh~ Just watch~
  1367. [2008-09-05 23:53:25] * [Gtz]Mary just listens.
  1368. [2008-09-05 23:53:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Employee of the... oh! Ohhhhh!
  1369. [2008-09-05 23:53:49] * [Nom]Alexis glares at Ludwig
  1370. [2008-09-05 23:53:50] * [GM]Ludwig thinks he finally gets it, clears his throat, and approaches the microphone with a smile.
  1371. [2008-09-05 23:53:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Um, hello! Um.
  1372. [2008-09-05 23:54:14] * [GM]Ludwig surreptitiously checks the paper Alexis handed to him.
  1373. [2008-09-05 23:54:19] * [Nom]Alexis shushes everybody and takes a seat near Cerise
  1374. [2008-09-05 23:54:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... Mary, as another year passes, I realise that you are a... truly wonderful girl.
  1375. [2008-09-05 23:54:57] * [GM]Ludwig balks a bit at the last part, but recovers nicely.
  1376. [2008-09-05 23:54:57] * [Gtz]Mary megablushes
  1377. [2008-09-05 23:55:05] <[Gtz]Mary> What's this all of a sudden?
  1378. [2008-09-05 23:55:38] * [GM]Ludwig reads ahead a little and recovers his composure completely. Folding the paper away in his hand, he speaks directly to Mary.
  1379. [2008-09-05 23:55:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "Shhh! The master is trying very hard"
  1380. [2008-09-05 23:56:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, thank you for being here for me, for all of us, through these hard years. You are an irreplaceable part of the Beetleoven household, and I hope that you will stay here forever.
  1381. [2008-09-05 23:56:36] <[GM]Ludwig> That said...
  1382. [2008-09-05 23:56:40] * [Nom]Alexis Alexis give Ludwig two thumbs up
  1383. [2008-09-05 23:56:55] * [GM]Ludwig starts shaking, calms himself, breathes in, breathes out.
  1384. [2008-09-05 23:56:59] <[GM]Ludwig> That said..
  1385. [2008-09-05 23:57:18] * [GM]Ludwig steps down from the stage and walks over to Mary.
  1386. [2008-09-05 23:57:24] * [PB]Teilya subconsciously takes Cerise's hands in excitement
  1387. [2008-09-05 23:57:25] <[GM]Ludwig> That said, please let me make this a very special day for you.
  1388. [2008-09-05 23:57:28] * [Nom]Alexis nudges Cerise
  1389. [2008-09-05 23:57:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Speak now or forever hold your peace."
  1390. [2008-09-05 23:57:45] <[Gtz]Mary> What?
  1391. [2008-09-05 23:57:46] * [GM]Ludwig kneels at Mary's side and takes one hand in both of his.
  1392. [2008-09-05 23:57:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary Magdeline... will you consent to becoming my wife?
  1393. [2008-09-05 23:57:59] * [Pyg]Cerise feels a hand on hers and a nudging from behind. What the hell?
  1394. [2008-09-05 23:58:10] <[Gtz]Mary> . . . . .
  1395. [2008-09-05 23:58:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!
  1396. [2008-09-05 23:58:50] * [Gtz]Mary grows serious
  1397. [2008-09-05 23:58:51] * [Pyg]Cerise jumps off her chair, her jaw slack.
  1398. [2008-09-05 23:58:52] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't even seem to hear Cerise's outburst. He just keeps on looking up at Mary's face, hopefully.
  1399. [2008-09-05 23:59:08] <[Gtz]Mary> What indeed, Mr. Beetleoven. Is this another one of your pranks?
  1400. [2008-09-05 23:59:34] * [Nom]Alexis puts on the Wedding March
  1401. [2008-09-05 23:59:41] <[GM]Ludwig> I assure you, I am quite serious. I want us to spend the rest of our lives together, Mary.
  1402. [2008-09-05 23:59:49] <[GM]Ludwig> {Seduction!}
  1403. [2008-09-06 00:01:42] * [Nom]Alexis interrupts
  1404. [2008-09-06 00:02:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary, this is a very serious moment! Why are you still in your maid getup!"
  1405. [2008-09-06 00:11:25] <[GM]Ludwig> {Seduction Failed - Alexis and Teilya each spent Favor to boost Ludwig's Affection to 4, but that didn't help his rolling a 1. Mary rolled a 4 against 4 Will for a 16. Cold as ice.}
  1406. [2008-09-06 00:12:39] <[Gtz]Mary> ....
  1407. [2008-09-06 00:13:05] <[GM]Ludwig> {Also, RETCON Alexis' Coercion attempt, at least for now.}
  1408. [2008-09-06 00:13:06] <[Gtz]Mary> hahahahaha, you're so cute sometimes, Mr. Beetleoven.
  1409. [2008-09-06 00:13:18] * [Gtz]Mary ruffles Ludwig's hair
  1410. [2008-09-06 00:13:39] * [GM]Ludwig smiles... he thinks.
  1411. [2008-09-06 00:13:56] * [Pyg]Cerise seems to relax, letting out a sigh of relief.
  1412. [2008-09-06 00:13:57] <[GM]Ludwig> You... think so?
  1413. [2008-09-06 00:14:05] * [Nom]Alexis facepalms
  1414. [2008-09-06 00:14:08] <[GM]Ludwig> I think you're pretty cute, too.
  1415. [2008-09-06 00:14:29] * [PB]Teilya blinks uncertainly and worrily
  1416. [2008-09-06 00:14:49] <[Gtz]Mary> That's enough of that for today, Mr. Beetleoven. I've had all the proposals I could handle.
  1417. [2008-09-06 00:15:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Huh?
  1418. [2008-09-06 00:15:28] <[GM]Ludwig> B-but...
  1419. [2008-09-06 00:15:32] * [Nom]Alexis places a hand on Ludwig's shoulder
  1420. [2008-09-06 00:15:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "ah, better luck next time, master"
  1421. [2008-09-06 00:15:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, how about that bath?
  1422. [2008-09-06 00:15:53] * [PB]Teilya looks crestfallen as she realises what happened.
  1423. [2008-09-06 00:15:54] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't move, the bottom falling out from beneath him.
  1424. [2008-09-06 00:16:01] <[GM]Ludwig> But...
  1425. [2008-09-06 00:16:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> B-bath? Ah, sure.
  1426. [2008-09-06 00:16:40] <[GM]Ludwig> I was... serious...
  1427. [2008-09-06 00:17:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "Come master, I'll fetch you a drink."
  1428. [2008-09-06 00:17:05] <[PB]Teilya> W-Wha...I-I thought you're in love with Master Miss Mary...?
  1429. [2008-09-06 00:17:29] * [Nom]Alexis drags Ludwig to the kitchen bar
  1430. [2008-09-06 00:17:33] * [Gtz]Mary leaves with Cerise
  1431. [2008-09-06 00:17:49] * [GM]Ludwig dumbly allows himself to be sat at the bar.
  1432. [2008-09-06 00:18:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "Now Teilya, let's not make it harder for the poor master."
  1433. [2008-09-06 00:18:19] <[GM]Ludwig> She didn't even... take me seriously...
  1434. [2008-09-06 00:18:44] <[PB]Teilya> W-Why...this shouldn't be like this...
  1435. [2008-09-06 00:18:44] * [Nom]Alexis gets behind the bar, pulls out an old rag, and starts polishing some glasses
  1436. [2008-09-06 00:19:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "I must be difficult, master"
  1437. [2008-09-06 00:19:26] * [Nom]Alexis pours him something strong
  1438. [2008-09-06 00:19:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "There there, let it all out."
  1439. [2008-09-06 00:19:40] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't understand it...
  1440. [2008-09-06 00:20:17] * [GM]Ludwig feels the glass being pressed into his hand and takes notice of it. Throwing his head back, he drains the contents in a single gulp.
  1441. [2008-09-06 00:20:46] * [Nom]Alexis refills the glass
  1442. [2008-09-06 00:20:59] * [PB]Teilya takes in the surroundings of the room, which already seems so cold and dim. Her legs then gives up, and she finds herself sitting on the floor dejectedly.
  1443. [2008-09-06 00:21:49] <[GM]Ludwig> She could've at least said "no", y'know?
  1444. [2008-09-06 00:21:56] * [GM]Ludwig drains his glass again.
  1445. [2008-09-06 00:22:04] * [Nom]Alexis refills
  1446. [2008-09-06 00:22:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's right, tell Alexis everything
  1447. [2008-09-06 00:22:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Instead, she just laughed at me and ruffled my hair!
  1448. [2008-09-06 00:22:35] * [GM]Ludwig drains his glass again.
  1449. [2008-09-06 00:22:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Ruffled my hair! I knew I shoulda worn that hat...
  1450. [2008-09-06 00:23:16] * [Nom]Alexis refills
  1451. [2008-09-06 00:23:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's right, master, next time you can try with a hat"
  1452. [2008-09-06 00:23:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Next time...
  1453. [2008-09-06 00:24:23] * [GM]Ludwig 's hand tightens around the glass as he lifts it again to his lips and drains it, slamming it back down on the bar.
  1454. [2008-09-06 00:24:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes... next time...
  1455. [2008-09-06 00:24:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, there's always a next time, master"
  1456. [2008-09-06 00:24:33] * [Nom]Alexis refills
  1457. [2008-09-06 00:24:43] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll show her...
  1458. [2008-09-06 00:24:57] * [GM]Ludwig almost misses his mouth this time.
  1459. [2008-09-06 00:25:12] <[GM]Ludwig> She won't laugh at me again!
  1460. [2008-09-06 00:25:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, yes, show her you're a man, master!"
  1461. [2008-09-06 00:25:26] * [PB]Teilya shakily stands up, and with a sob runs out of the now oppressing room. WHY? This shouldn't end this way...IT SHOULDN'T END LIKE THIS! WHY!
  1462. [2008-09-06 00:25:27] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm gunna show that women!
  1463. [2008-09-06 00:25:30] * [Nom]Alexis refills
  1464. [2008-09-06 00:25:35] * [GM]Ludwig drinks.
  1465. [2008-09-06 00:25:58] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm gunna provet'her jusshow much I rilly love her! 'nd then she'll see!
  1466. [2008-09-06 00:26:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Imma man, dammit!
  1467. [2008-09-06 00:26:20] * [GM]Ludwig pounds the bar with his fist.
  1468. [2008-09-06 00:26:26] <[GM]Ludwig> A man!
  1469. [2008-09-06 00:26:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "YOU'RE A MAN, MASTER"
  1470. [2008-09-06 00:26:35] <[GM]Ludwig> I AM A MAN!
  1471. [2008-09-06 00:26:59] * [GM]Ludwig tries to stand up and continue ranting, but his legs seem to have stopped working, and he falls to the floor.
  1472. [2008-09-06 00:27:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh dear, master, are you quite ok?"
  1473. [2008-09-06 00:27:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Oogh... whath'helly'been feedin' me, anyways...?
  1474. [2008-09-06 00:27:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's, er..."
  1475. [2008-09-06 00:27:48] * [Nom]Alexis looks at the bottle, and decides against it
  1476. [2008-09-06 00:27:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's Essence of Manliness, master"
  1477. [2008-09-06 00:27:59] * [PB]Teilya keeps on running, just to get away from that room. She don't like this, not one bit. She can't take it...
  1478. [2008-09-06 00:28:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Oyeah? Goo'stuff, that...
  1479. [2008-09-06 00:28:34] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...w-where are you...I can't take this...Cerise...
  1480. [2008-09-06 00:29:02] * [GM]Ludwig pulls himself back onto the stool. Theeeeere we go. Nice and safe up here.
  1481. [2008-09-06 00:29:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Gimme 'nother, tarbender.
  1482. [2008-09-06 00:30:29] <[GM]Ludwig> {And so, while Teilya races away her tears and Ludwig gets shitfaced...}
  1483. [2008-09-06 00:32:03] * [Nom]Alexis is whispering to Ludwig, even as the scene fades out
  1484. [2008-09-06 00:32:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "First thing you should do, master, is go apologise to Mary..."
  1485. [2008-09-06 00:32:34] * [PB]Teilya just keeps on running, crying out that one name...
  1486. [2008-09-06 00:34:01] * [Gtz]Mary shuts the door behind her
  1487. [2008-09-06 00:34:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Whew... What an ordeal...
  1488. [2008-09-06 00:34:27] * [Gtz]Mary slumps back against the door
  1489. [2008-09-06 00:34:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> So, Master Ludwig wasn't serious after all?
  1490. [2008-09-06 00:35:13] <[Gtz]Mary> He really is a nice young fellow, but he really needs to stop with the jokes...
  1491. [2008-09-06 00:36:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> He looked so serious though.
  1492. [2008-09-06 00:37:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm, did he? I didn't notice.
  1493. [2008-09-06 00:37:30] * [Pyg]Cerise can't help but grin at the moment. This is great! And to think I was worrying just a while ago!
  1494. [2008-09-06 00:38:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, it's all over now.
  1495. [2008-09-06 00:38:31] <[Gtz]Mary> You know, sometimes it feels like the whole world is against you. Like everything you do is being decided by a greater power and you have no control.
  1496. [2008-09-06 00:38:48] <[Gtz]Mary> But I always got you to help me out of a jam, right?
  1497. [2008-09-06 00:38:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...
  1498. [2008-09-06 00:38:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> Are you worried about me, Mary?
  1499. [2008-09-06 00:39:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Sometimes.
  1500. [2008-09-06 00:39:44] * [Pyg]Cerise 's grin seems to widen. Oh, it's so nice to hear that!
  1501. [2008-09-06 00:40:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Like during dinner earlier. I didn't know you'd be in so much danger...
  1502. [2008-09-06 00:40:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, of course you would be. It's the Outside. I guess hearing about it adds gravity to the situation, huh...
  1503. [2008-09-06 00:41:26] <[Gtz]Mary> ah.
  1504. [2008-09-06 00:41:29] * [Gtz]Mary gets up
  1505. [2008-09-06 00:41:33] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, that's why Master Ludwig sends me out to do it.
  1506. [2008-09-06 00:41:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...? What is it?
  1507. [2008-09-06 00:41:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, enough about that. Let's wash away our worries for a little while, okay?
  1508. [2008-09-06 00:44:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> R-right! That's what bathrooms are for after all.
  1509. [2008-09-06 00:45:33] <[Gtz]Mary> just in case Master Ludwig didn't tire of his joke...
  1510. [2008-09-06 00:45:39] * [Gtz]Mary locks the door
  1511. [2008-09-06 00:46:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> Surely the Master isn't that kind of person.
  1512. [2008-09-06 00:47:33] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm pretty sure he was taught to not walk in on others bathing.
  1513. [2008-09-06 00:47:57] <[Gtz]Mary> I wish he held the same standard for a lady's garments.
  1514. [2008-09-06 00:48:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> What?!
  1515. [2008-09-06 00:48:46] <[Gtz]Mary> This isn't the first of Master's pranks...
  1516. [2008-09-06 00:49:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Forget about it. Let's just relax.
  1517. [2008-09-06 00:49:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary, you don't bring up something like that and then say "Relax!"
  1518. [2008-09-06 00:49:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> We're supposed to take care of the master, and help him become a proper gentleman!
  1519. [2008-09-06 00:50:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> That's what we're being paid for!
  1520. [2008-09-06 00:51:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, rest assured, I will ensure that Master Ludwig repents for his sins.
  1521. [2008-09-06 00:52:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> Come on, Mary, tell me what happened!
  1522. [2008-09-06 00:52:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright, Alright, but let's get settled in. Pour the water, would you please?
  1523. [2008-09-06 00:54:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> Of course.
  1524. [2008-09-06 00:54:48] * [Pyg]Cerise turns the faucet on to fill the tub.
  1525. [2008-09-06 00:55:29] * [Gtz]Mary removes her.. hat or whatever
  1526. [2008-09-06 00:55:41] * [Gtz]Mary unbuttons her blouse
  1527. [2008-09-06 00:56:41] <[GM]Ludwig> {It's a headdress. One of those frilly ones. Oh right, except you wear half a nun habit. Never mind.}
  1528. [2008-09-06 00:56:51] * [Pyg]Cerise is mesmerized by the sight.
  1529. [2008-09-06 00:58:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't let the water overflow, now~
  1530. [2008-09-06 00:58:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh? Oh, right.
  1531. [2008-09-06 01:00:33] * [Pyg]Cerise shuts off the faucet.
  1532. [2008-09-06 01:01:27] * [Gtz]Mary tests the water
  1533. [2008-09-06 01:01:47] * [Pyg]Cerise realizes she's still fully dressed.
  1534. [2008-09-06 01:01:58] * [Gtz]Mary satisfied, removes the rest of her clothes
  1535. [2008-09-06 01:02:11] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ahaha, what am I doing...
  1536. [2008-09-06 01:02:17] <[Gtz]Mary> Here goes...
  1537. [2008-09-06 01:02:30] * [Gtz]Mary slowly lowers herself into the water
  1538. [2008-09-06 01:02:35] <[Gtz]Mary> aaaaahhhhhhhhhhh....
  1539. [2008-09-06 01:03:10] * [Pyg]Cerise suddenly feels a little uncomfortable. Did it just get hotter in here?
  1540. [2008-09-06 01:03:55] * [Gtz]Mary sinks to head level
  1541. [2008-09-06 01:04:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Is something wrong?
  1542. [2008-09-06 01:04:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Come on, get in! You'll feel a lot better.
  1543. [2008-09-06 01:04:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha-what?!
  1544. [2008-09-06 01:05:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> O-okay.
  1545. [2008-09-06 01:05:59] * [Pyg]Cerise carefully removes her uniform, setting it aside.
  1546. [2008-09-06 01:06:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> O-okay, I'm g-going in now...
  1547. [2008-09-06 01:07:13] * [Pyg]Cerise thinks for a moment, Hey, she's blind, why am I so nervous?
  1548. [2008-09-06 01:09:21] * [Pyg]Cerise enters the bath slowly, being conscious of accidentally making contact with Mary's skin.
  1549. [2008-09-06 01:11:25] <[Gtz]Mary> You seem so tense, Cerise. You gotta take it easy, or things around here will drive you up a wall!
  1550. [2008-09-06 01:13:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...I know. It's just been a hectic day, that's all-Ow.
  1551. [2008-09-06 01:14:18] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I forgot all about those cuts.
  1552. [2008-09-06 01:15:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Sorry about that, I should have left out the bubble bath...
  1553. [2008-09-06 01:15:54] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, don't mind it.
  1554. [2008-09-06 01:16:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> I need to get clean somehow, anyway.
  1555. [2008-09-06 01:16:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Indeed. Cleanliness is next to godliness~
  1556. [2008-09-06 01:16:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Turn around and lean back and I'll wash your hair.
  1557. [2008-09-06 01:17:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah...A-alright...
  1558. [2008-09-06 01:18:56] * [Pyg]Cerise lets her nerves get the best of her and quickly turns around in the bath.
  1559. [2008-09-06 01:19:26] * [Gtz]Mary runs her fingers through Cerise's hair
  1560. [2008-09-06 01:19:40] <[Gtz]Mary> hee-hee! I love your hair, it's so springy~
  1561. [2008-09-06 01:19:56] * [Gtz]Mary plays with the curls and spirals
  1562. [2008-09-06 01:20:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah! Wh-what are you doing?
  1563. [2008-09-06 01:20:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh! Sorry!
  1564. [2008-09-06 01:21:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, no, it didn't hurt or, um, anything.
  1565. [2008-09-06 01:21:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Just a little surprised. Maybe I am tense after all.
  1566. [2008-09-06 01:22:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Take a deeeeeeep breath...
  1567. [2008-09-06 01:22:13] * [Gtz]Mary takes a deep breath to demonstrate
  1568. [2008-09-06 01:22:25] * [Pyg]Cerise complies.
  1569. [2008-09-06 01:22:32] * [Pyg]Cerise inhales deeply.
  1570. [2008-09-06 01:23:01] <[Gtz]Mary> .....aaaaaaahhhh. Now just lay back and let the water preform its miracle...
  1571. [2008-09-06 01:23:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> Haaaaah...
  1572. [2008-09-06 01:23:47] * [Gtz]Mary slumps down, legs entwining with Cerise's
  1573. [2008-09-06 01:24:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> !!
  1574. [2008-09-06 01:24:40] * [Pyg]Cerise is caught of guard. OH GOD, WHAT IS SHE DOING?!
  1575. [2008-09-06 01:25:48] * [Gtz]Mary places her hands firmly on Cerise's shoulders and begins to massage~
  1576. [2008-09-06 01:27:30] * [Pyg]Cerise lets out a moan, but quickly covers her mouth, cutting it off midway.
  1577. [2008-09-06 01:28:08] * [Gtz]Mary continues, working up and down, soon finding a smooth rhythm
  1578. [2008-09-06 01:28:21] <[Gtz]Mary> how does that feel?
  1579. [2008-09-06 01:28:33] * [Pyg]Cerise can feel the soft fingers on her shoulders. I don't know if my heart can take this!
  1580. [2008-09-06 01:29:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Oh! It feels...haaah...wonderful!
  1581. [2008-09-06 01:31:02] * [Gtz]Mary goes further down, working on the lower back
  1582. [2008-09-06 01:33:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah! There...Oh, yes!
  1583. [2008-09-06 01:33:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm, I wonder...
  1584. [2008-09-06 01:34:08] * [Gtz]Mary moves down closer to her sides
  1585. [2008-09-06 01:34:19] <[Gtz]Mary> Is..Cer-ise..
  1586. [2008-09-06 01:34:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Ti-ck-el-ish~
  1587. [2008-09-06 01:34:31] * [PB]Teilya continues her run until she comes upon the doors of the bathroom, she's planning to just barge in before, but suddenly stops when she hears the...voices coming from inside.
  1588. [2008-09-06 01:34:37] * [Gtz]Mary tickles. What else?
  1589. [2008-09-06 01:35:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-hey! Where are you...Haha, No!...What are you, hahaha, doing, Mary?
  1590. [2008-09-06 01:35:27] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah HA! A weak point!
  1591. [2008-09-06 01:35:42] * [PB]Teilya whispers to herself as she stops listens
  1592. [2008-09-06 01:35:45] <[PB]Teilya> W-Wha...? W-What's going on...in there...?
  1593. [2008-09-06 01:35:53] * [Gtz]Mary tickles like no righteous woman has tickled before
  1594. [2008-09-06 01:36:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ahahah! H-hey, haha, no fair...You!
  1595. [2008-09-06 01:37:14] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...?
  1596. [2008-09-06 01:37:14] <[Gtz]Mary> All is fair in love and war, sweetheart!
  1597. [2008-09-06 01:37:15] <[Pyg]Cerise> {Turning the tables on Mary!}
  1598. [2008-09-06 01:39:55] * [Pyg]Cerise can't help but let out squeals and giggles under Mary's assault.
  1599. [2008-09-06 01:40:50] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...
  1600. [2008-09-06 01:41:21] * [Gtz]Mary stops for a moment
  1601. [2008-09-06 01:41:24] * [PB]Teilya involuntarily takes a step back. What is this? W-What is this?
  1602. [2008-09-06 01:41:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Did you hear something?
  1603. [2008-09-06 01:42:55] * [Pyg]Cerise is trying to catch her breath.
  1604. [2008-09-06 01:43:01] * [PB]Teilya tries to open the door, but only find it locked.
  1605. [2008-09-06 01:43:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> I didn't...hear...anything.
  1606. [2008-09-06 01:43:19] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...
  1607. [2008-09-06 01:43:53] * [PB]Teilya tries again, this time more desperate, charging with a body slam, yet still the door holds.
  1608. [2008-09-06 01:44:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> What the hell?
  1609. [2008-09-06 01:44:30] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...
  1610. [2008-09-06 01:44:34] <[Gtz]Mary> Who's there?
  1611. [2008-09-06 01:45:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Marco~
  1612. [2008-09-06 01:46:20] * [PB]Teilya bangs on the door one more time, though this time much less powerful. Trembling, she slides down to the ground, tears threatening to spill.
  1613. [2008-09-06 01:46:58] <[PB]Teilya> W-Why...Cerise...
  1614. [2008-09-06 01:47:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis? Teilya?
  1615. [2008-09-06 01:49:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...I'll get it.
  1616. [2008-09-06 01:49:55] * [Pyg]Cerise steps out of the bath, a little disappointed and wraps a tower around herself before stepping to the door.
  1617. [2008-09-06 01:50:25] * [Pyg]Cerise turns the knob and opens it.
  1618. [2008-09-06 01:50:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh? Miss Teilya?
  1619. [2008-09-06 01:51:07] <[Gtz]Mary> What happened? Is something wrong?
  1620. [2008-09-06 01:51:38] * [PB]Teilya jumps slightly, not expecting the doors to open. Then, she looks up and sees Cerise, and her tears overflows.
  1621. [2008-09-06 01:52:18] <[PB]Teilya> C-Cerise...
  1622. [2008-09-06 01:53:02] * [Pyg]Cerise kneels down, reaching out to pet Teilya's head.
  1623. [2008-09-06 01:53:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-hey, what's wrong?
  1624. [2008-09-06 01:54:14] * [PB]Teilya hiccup once, and look aside into the bathroom.
  1625. [2008-09-06 01:54:58] <[PB]Teilya> W-Why...Cerise...why...
  1626. [2008-09-06 01:55:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> Why what? Did you want to take a bath with us?
  1627. [2008-09-06 01:56:09] * [PB]Teilya looks back towards Cerise with tears and sadness. Is this it? Why did this day gone so bad?
  1628. [2008-09-06 01:56:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Who is it, Cerise?
  1629. [2008-09-06 01:57:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> It's Miss Teilya.
  1630. [2008-09-06 01:57:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I should have asked if you wanted to join us! Well, if you do, there's plenty of room.
  1631. [2008-09-06 01:58:11] <[Pyg]Cerise> Aww, come on, Miss Teilya, I won't know what's wrong unless you tell me.
  1632. [2008-09-06 01:58:39] * [PB]Teilya just looks at Cerise, trying to smile, but still despair is obvious
  1633. [2008-09-06 01:58:43] <[PB]Teilya> Miss...Teilya...? Am I only...a 'Miss Teilya' to you...?
  1634. [2008-09-06 02:00:37] * [PB]Teilya then looks down, hiding her face from Cerise.
  1635. [2008-09-06 02:00:42] * [Gtz]Mary gets out of the bathtub
  1636. [2008-09-06 02:00:49] * [Gtz]Mary finds a towel
  1637. [2008-09-06 02:01:12] <[PB]Teilya> I am...am I not...I'm only just...a 'Miss Teilya'...
  1638. [2008-09-06 02:06:04] * [Pyg]Cerise seems to have been affected by those words. Yes, what is she to you? What about a while ago during the expedition?
  1639. [2008-09-06 02:06:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well...I...
  1640. [2008-09-06 02:07:26] * [Pyg]Cerise can't seem to get Mary out of her head either. She can't find her words.
  1641. [2008-09-06 02:08:14] <[Gtz]Mary> That's right. You are Teilya Vallence, the best maid Beetleoven's Fortress has to offer. Now why don't you come join us?
  1642. [2008-09-06 02:09:55] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, extends a hand
  1643. [2008-09-06 02:13:14] * [PB]Teilya doesn't seem to have heard Mary, her mind in total disarray. She's just a 'Miss Teilya', a useless catgirl that always needs someone to help her, a useless catgirl that can't do anything. She's useless, and no one will care, not even Cerise, who she's just a 'Miss Teilya' to.
  1644. [2008-09-06 02:13:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Hello-ooo.... Earth to Teilya....
  1645. [2008-09-06 02:14:09] * [Gtz]Mary wonders why everyone here always seem to be spaced out
  1646. [2008-09-06 02:15:56] * [PB]Teilya 's nothing, she fails at work, she fails at battle, she fails at life. She's nothing, just a useless little catgirl that's good for nothing. Nothing at all. Just a lowly catgirl that gets in everyone's way.
  1647. [2008-09-06 02:16:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya? Come on, say something!
  1648. [2008-09-06 02:17:49] <[PB]Teilya> ...Heh...heheheh...yeah...just a useless catgirl that gets in everyone's way...
  1649. [2008-09-06 02:18:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wh-what's so funny? Why are you mumbling?
  1650. [2008-09-06 02:19:22] <[PB]Teilya> I'm just useless catgirl...useless...useless...useless...
  1651. [2008-09-06 02:21:33] * [Gtz]Mary drops her towel and brings Teilya into an embrace
  1652. [2008-09-06 02:22:26] <[Gtz]Mary> shhh...hush, now...
  1653. [2008-09-06 02:23:33] <[Gtz]Mary> those are not words for the likes of you...
  1654. [2008-09-06 02:24:46] * [PB]Teilya doesn't respond, her thoughts jumbled and mind unclear.
  1655. [2008-09-06 02:25:06] <[PB]Teilya> Useless...useless...I'm...nothing...but useless...
  1656. [2008-09-06 02:27:34] <[PB]Teilya> I should just...disappear...just...disappear...forever...
  1657. [2008-09-06 02:27:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, could you warm up the bath again? It seems you and I are not the only ones in needs of a little relaxation. Come with me, Teilya, we'll make you feel so much better...
  1658. [2008-09-06 02:28:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> O-okay...
  1659. [2008-09-06 02:28:52] * [Pyg]Cerise goes over back to the bathtub to drain the water, making room for warmer water from the faucet.
  1660. [2008-09-06 02:30:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright, get your uniform off or I'm gonna throw you in, got it?
  1661. [2008-09-06 02:30:43] * [PB]Teilya continues to mumble, ignoring anything that was said to her.
  1662. [2008-09-06 02:31:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Yooo-hooo! This is Mary-1, come in, Teilya-7!
  1663. [2008-09-06 02:32:22] <[PB]Teilya> Disappear...disappear...useless...disappear...useless...disappear...
  1664. [2008-09-06 02:33:06] * [Pyg]Cerise goes over to shut the door as Mary leads Teilya inside.
  1665. [2008-09-06 02:33:09] <[Gtz]Mary> You got five seconds!
  1666. [2008-09-06 02:33:19] * [PB]Teilya ignores her
  1667. [2008-09-06 02:34:55] <[Gtz]Mary> alright, time's up! Cerise, get her legs, she's goin' in!
  1668. [2008-09-06 02:35:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha...? ...Okay.
  1669. [2008-09-06 02:35:52] <[Gtz]Mary> one... two... three!
  1670. [2008-09-06 02:37:38] <[GM]Tetro> On the count of three, Mary and Cerise release the catgirl, sending her flying into the filled tub. *KABLOOSH!*
  1671. [2008-09-06 02:38:14] <[PB]Teilya> KYA!
  1672. [2008-09-06 02:39:24] * [PB]Teilya is immediately brought back from the depths of despair at the sudden contact with the hot water. Cats don't like water.
  1673. [2008-09-06 02:40:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Are you sensible yet?
  1674. [2008-09-06 02:40:24] <[PB]Teilya> KYA! GET ME OUT! GET ME OUT! I HATE HOT WATER!
  1675. [2008-09-06 02:41:03] * [Pyg]Cerise gulps, then steps into the bath.
  1676. [2008-09-06 02:41:18] * [PB]Teilya flails around in panic, taking gulps of water as she tries to pull herself away from the demonic thing people called water.
  1677. [2008-09-06 02:41:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> I-it's okay, Miss Teilya, I'm in here
  1678. [2008-09-06 02:41:30] * [Gtz]Mary joins in, but in much less of a hurry
  1679. [2008-09-06 02:41:50] <[PB]Teilya> Get the water out! Kya!
  1680. [2008-09-06 02:42:11] <[Gtz]Mary> no no no, let the water in~
  1681. [2008-09-06 02:42:28] * [Gtz]Mary MASTER OF BACK MASSAGES COMMENCE
  1682. [2008-09-06 02:43:23] * [Pyg]Cerise pauses to realize what's in front of her. Naked Mary and a wet Teilya, with her clothes clinging onto her figure.
  1683. [2008-09-06 02:43:44] * [Gtz]Mary snakes her arms up her wet shirt and places her thumbs beneath her shoulderblades, rubbing very intently
  1684. [2008-09-06 02:44:02] <[PB]Teilya> KYAAAAAAAAAAA!
  1685. [2008-09-06 02:44:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Shhh! Not so loud! You gotta reeeelaaaax...
  1686. [2008-09-06 02:44:45] <[PB]Teilya> W-What are you doing!?
  1687. [2008-09-06 02:45:09] * [Pyg]Cerise takes Teilya's hands in hers.
  1688. [2008-09-06 02:45:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Why so serious? Take it easy....
  1689. [2008-09-06 02:45:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> It's okay, just calm down.
  1690. [2008-09-06 02:45:26] * [Gtz]Mary rubs more intently
  1691. [2008-09-06 02:45:49] <[PB]Teilya> B-But! KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA~!
  1692. [2008-09-06 02:46:37] * [PB]Teilya shudders under the assault, her fear of water temporarily subdued.
  1693. [2008-09-06 02:50:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Sigh. This won't do, off with that dress!
  1694. [2008-09-06 02:50:52] * [Pyg]Cerise sees what Mary's doing. Oh what the hell, why not?
  1695. [2008-09-06 02:51:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> I-I'll help you get your stockings off then!
  1696. [2008-09-06 02:51:11] <[PB]Teilya> W-Wha?! H-HEY!
  1697. [2008-09-06 02:51:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um, pardon me...
  1698. [2008-09-06 02:52:25] * [Gtz]Mary unfastens the bra. there is no pad.
  1699. [2008-09-06 02:52:59] * [Pyg]Cerise slips her hands up Teilya's leg onto the middle of her thight to get to the top of the stocking and proceeds to pull it down.
  1700. [2008-09-06 02:53:41] <[PB]Teilya> W-WHA! WAI- KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA~N!
  1701. [2008-09-06 02:54:00] * [Gtz]Mary puts a hand over her mouth
  1702. [2008-09-06 02:54:16] <[Gtz]Mary> shhh! take, it, eeeeaaassssyyyyy!
  1703. [2008-09-06 02:55:27] <[PB]Teilya> HMMMF!
  1704. [2008-09-06 02:56:35] * [Pyg]Cerise repeats the process on the other leg, again gliding her fingers along to the middle of Teilya's thigh and pulling her other stockind down.
  1705. [2008-09-06 02:56:55] * [PB]Teilya shudders under the assault, and tries unsuccessfully to squirm out of it. HEY DON'T TOUCH TH-
  1706. [2008-09-06 02:57:11] <[PB]Teilya> HMMMMMMMMF!
  1707. [2008-09-06 02:59:49] * [Gtz]Mary stops what she's doing, rests her head on the tub edge and sighs
  1708. [2008-09-06 03:00:26] * [Pyg]Cerise was about to pull Teilya's underwear when she notices Mary stopping.
  1709. [2008-09-06 03:00:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, would you like to tell us just what's gotten into you?
  1710. [2008-09-06 03:01:00] <[PB]Teilya> Uuuuuuuuuuu...
  1711. [2008-09-06 03:02:34] * [PB]Teilya looks at Mary with teary eyes, subconsciously moving away from her
  1712. [2008-09-06 03:03:09] <[PB]Teilya> You...you...
  1713. [2008-09-06 03:03:26] * [Gtz]Mary smiles and awaits
  1714. [2008-09-06 03:03:42] * [Pyg]Cerise brings her face up to Teilya's, examining her face with concern.
  1715. [2008-09-06 03:03:48] * [PB]Teilya tries to pauses and bit her lips lightly, then proceed to pouts at Mary.
  1716. [2008-09-06 03:03:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> Are you feeling better now, Miss Teilya?
  1717. [2008-09-06 03:04:06] <[PB]Teilya> YOU TWO MAKE TOO MUCH NOICE! Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu...
  1718. [2008-09-06 03:04:48] <[PB]Teilya> I...I thought you two were...uuuuuuuuuuuuu...I'm fine...
  1719. [2008-09-06 03:05:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Haha, I guess I did get a little carried away back there.
  1720. [2008-09-06 03:05:38] * [Pyg]Cerise raises her eyebrow at Mary. Carried away, she says...
  1721. [2008-09-06 03:05:48] * [Gtz]Mary turns serious
  1722. [2008-09-06 03:05:58] <[Gtz]Mary> Now, are you sure you're okay?
  1723. [2008-09-06 03:06:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Because if you're not, then, it's just us girls.
  1724. [2008-09-06 03:07:19] * [PB]Teilya glares at Mary for a second, but nods afterwards as she submerges a bit into the water.
  1725. [2008-09-06 03:07:30] <[PB]Teilya> I already said I'm fine...
  1726. [2008-09-06 03:08:00] * [Pyg]Cerise instinctively reaches out and pets on the head.
  1727. [2008-09-06 03:08:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> (*pets Teilya)
  1728. [2008-09-06 03:08:14] * [Gtz]Mary submerges as well
  1729. [2008-09-06 03:08:31] <[PB]Teilya> Kya!
  1730. [2008-09-06 03:08:53] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I certainly hope you're right. I don't think I can take much more of days like these...
  1731. [2008-09-06 03:09:18] * [PB]Teilya turns to look at Cerise, but quickly looks away and sits back.
  1732. [2008-09-06 03:09:34] <[PB]Teilya> I said I'm fine already...
  1733. [2008-09-06 03:10:41] * [Pyg]Cerise moves her hand off the top of Teilya's head and onto her ear.
  1734. [2008-09-06 03:11:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Okay then, I believe you. And on that note, I'll be going to bed.
  1735. [2008-09-06 03:12:00] * [Gtz]Mary gets out of the tub
  1736. [2008-09-06 03:12:09] * [PB]Teilya shivers at the touch, but refuse to say anything.
  1737. [2008-09-06 03:12:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, stay with Teilya for a while and make sure she's doing all right, would you?
  1738. [2008-09-06 03:12:46] * [PB]Teilya nods at Mary, then after hesitating a bit waves her good bye.
  1739. [2008-09-06 03:12:53] <[PB]Teilya> Sorry about earlier...
  1740. [2008-09-06 03:13:09] * [Gtz]Mary towels off, gathers yon clothes, and makes ye exit
  1741. [2008-09-06 03:13:22] <[GM]Tetro> {Okay, guess that's it for tonight, then.}
  1742. [2008-09-06 03:13:46] <[GM]Tetro> {DAY 1 END}
  1743.  
  1744.  
  1745.  
  1746.  
  1747.  
  1748.  
  1749.  
  1750.  
  1751. @@---
  1752. @@=====
  1753. @@Session Three
  1754. @@=====
  1755. @@---
  1756.  
  1757. [16:25] * [GM]Tetro changes topic to 'MaidRPG IC channel. OOC in #maidrpgooc - RETURN TO BEETLEOVEN FORTRESS - at last!'
  1758. [16:26] <[GM]Tetro> Day Two: Morning
  1759. [16:26] <[GM]Tetro> But first, a word from Alexis
  1760. [16:27] <[Nom]Alexis> [Alexis, being the considerate servant that she is, puts the drunk Ludwig to bed before he catches a cold. She also takes the opportunity to steal his keys]
  1761. [16:29] <[GM]Tetro> k then
  1762. [16:29] <[GM]Tetro> Day Two: Morning
  1763. [16:29] <[GM]Tetro> [Wake up, you fargoths.]
  1764. [16:29] <[Nom]Alexis> [Alexis, of course, does not sleep. She spends the night pattering about cleaning up last night's debacle]
  1765. [16:31] * [Pyg]Cerise rouses from bed, a sliver of sunlight penetrating through her curtains and conveniently on her eyes.
  1766. [16:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hrrmm...Shtupid shun...
  1767. [16:32] <[GM]Tetro> From downstairs somewhere, you hear a distant, persistent sound.
  1768. [16:32] <[Gtz]Mary> Stupid what?
  1769. [16:33] * [Gtz]Mary stops for a moment, then dresses quickly
  1770. [16:34] * [Nom]Alexis goes to prepare breakfast
  1771. [16:34] <[GM]Tetro> [Mary's ears are keen enough to identify the sound, even this far away: an incoming transmission!]
  1772. [16:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey, Cerise. Get ready, we got work to do.
  1773. [16:35] * [Pyg]Cerise vigorously shakes her head to get the sleep off.
  1774. [16:36] * [Pyg]Cerise hops out of be, fixing it as she goes along.
  1775. [16:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> "Morning, Mary!"
  1776. [16:36] <[Gtz]Mary> Good morning. I hear a transmission from the war room, it may be urgent. Get ready and I'll meet you there, okay?
  1777. [16:37] * [Pyg]Cerise smiles as she begins to don her maid attire. Ah, it's great seeing Mary first thing in the morning. Nothing in the world could replace this.
  1778. [16:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> "Okay then."
  1779. [16:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright, I'm heading out.
  1780. [16:38] * [Gtz]Mary leaves, tracing the wall that leads to the war room
  1781. [16:39] * [Pyg]Cerise drags her rifle out from under her bed.
  1782. [16:40] * [Nom]Alexis goes to drag Teilya out of bed
  1783. [16:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teiyla, it's morning
  1784. [16:41] <[Nom]Alexis> !"
  1785. [16:41] * [PB]Teilya however, kept on sleeping without a care.
  1786. [16:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "If you don't wake up the master will fire you~"
  1787. [16:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis? Teilya?
  1788. [16:42] * [PB]Teilya kept on sleeping heavily
  1789. [16:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, Mary, good morning. Where are off to? I was just about to wake Teiyla and make something to eat."
  1790. [16:43] <[Nom]Alexis> (*are you off...)
  1791. [16:43] <[Gtz]Mary> I hear a transmission from the war room. Go alert Master Beetleoven, I'll take care of the call.
  1792. [16:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok then~"
  1793. [16:44] * [Nom]Alexis turns back to hollering at Teiyla
  1794. [16:44] * [Gtz]Mary arrives at teh war room
  1795. [16:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teiyla, we're about to die~! Wake up or the beetles will eat you~!"
  1796. [16:45] * [PB]Teilya sleeps on. Not working there~
  1797. [16:48] * [Gtz]Mary finds the seat near the sonar equipment and flips the radio switch
  1798. [16:48] <[Gtz]Mary> This is Fortress Beetleoven from section 8492. Is anyone out there?
  1799. [16:49] <[GM]Tetro> [No voice replies. Just a series of coordinates given in Morse code - an automated distress signal]
  1800. [16:50] <[GM]Tetro> [But even all of those were thought to be disabled by beetle attacks or battery failure by now...]
  1801. [16:50] <[Gtz]Mary> 14huh... strange... one... four... zero...
  1802. [16:51] <[Gtz]Mary> 14six... seven... zero...
  1803. [16:51] * [Pyg]Cerise enters the war room, her rifle on her shoulder.
  1804. [16:51] * [Pyg]Cerise notices Mary concentrating and decides to keep quiet until she finishes.
  1805. [16:52] <[Gtz]Mary> 14point... eight... five!
  1806. [16:53] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, grab a pad and write this down.
  1807. [16:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Eh? Right away, ma'am!
  1808. [16:54] * [Pyg]Cerise steps quickly over to a drawer, taking out a pad and a pen. She scratches it over the pad to make sure it's working. It does.
  1809. [16:54] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, ready.
  1810. [16:54] <[Gtz]Mary> one, four, zero, six, seven, zero, point eighty five.
  1811. [16:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> One...four...zero...six...seven...zero...point eigthy five.
  1812. [16:55] * [Pyg]Cerise quickly scratches the numbers onto paper.
  1813. [16:55] <[Gtz]Mary> That's where we received a distress beacon.
  1814. [16:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, a survivor?
  1815. [16:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm... We should alert Mr. Beetleoven.
  1816. [16:56] <[Nom]Alexis> [meanwhile]
  1817. [16:57] * [Nom]Alexis grabs a nearby vase, takes out the flowers, and empties it on Teiyla
  1818. [16:57] * [Nom]Alexis leaves quickly to wake the master
  1819. [16:57] <[PB]Teilya> Kya?!
  1820. [16:57] * [PB]Teilya almost jumped up at the sudden splash of water.
  1821. [16:58] * [Nom]Alexis raps on Ludwig's door
  1822. [16:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master? It's morning, master."
  1823. [16:58] * [PB]Teilya blinks a few times, then groggily gets off the bed.
  1824. [16:59] <[GM]Tetro> [No reply.]
  1825. [17:00] * [Nom]Alexis lets herself in
  1826. [17:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, it's time to wake up. The coffee's going to get cold."
  1827. [17:04] * [GM]Ludwig has made a mess of the bed you put him in, thrashing around until he's caught in the sheets like a... caught thing. It's too early for metaphors.
  1828. [17:05] * [PB]Teilya walks into the room with her pajamas on loosely, left shoulder exposed and clinging to her pillow while her hair is dripping with water.
  1829. [17:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, your posture is a mess. And Teiyla, you look even worse. You should always look presentable before the master."
  1830. [17:08] <[PB]Teilya> Mmmmm...nyaa...?
  1831. [17:10] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  1832. [17:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, they don't make maids like they used to."
  1833. [17:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Up and at them, master!"
  1834. [17:10] * [Nom]Alexis rolls Ludwig out of bed
  1835. [17:11] <[GM]Ludwig> ...nguh...
  1836. [17:11] * [GM]Ludwig hits the floor with a dead-meat THUD.
  1837. [17:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hello? Master?"
  1838. [17:12] <[GM]Ludwig> gngh...
  1839. [17:12] * [Nom]Alexis pokes Ludwig's face a bit
  1840. [17:12] <[GM]Ludwig> g'wy...
  1841. [17:13] <[GM]Ludwig> lmeln...
  1842. [17:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, you're giving your cat a bad impression."
  1843. [17:13] <[GM]Ludwig> dncr...
  1844. [17:14] * [PB]Teilya had, however, fell back into sleep while standing.
  1845. [17:14] * [GM]Ludwig seems to be gradually rousing, despite his mumbled protests.
  1846. [17:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's right master, it's a new day of a dead world! Time to face the challenges of the collapse of civilisation! Let us meet the the despair of the apocalypse with vigor and cheer!"
  1847. [17:19] <[GM]Ludwig> ...you n yer... damn sense'a humor...
  1848. [17:20] * [GM]Ludwig pushes himself up against the bed and instantly regrets it.
  1849. [17:20] <[GM]Ludwig> oogh, my head...
  1850. [17:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Morning is no joke, master! In any moment there's going to be emergencies and distresses and all kinds of pleasant excitement!"
  1851. [17:21] <[GM]Ludwig> ...tell 'em to wait...
  1852. [17:21] * [GM]Ludwig staggers towards the door, colliding with Teilya instead.
  1853. [17:24] <[PB]Teilya> Uwah?!
  1854. [17:24] * [GM]Ludwig staggers backwards, but manages not to fall over.
  1855. [17:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Watch where you're going, damn it!
  1856. [17:24] * [PB]Teilya yelped when Ludwig collided with her, and proceeds to fall onto her butt.
  1857. [17:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master...a man is at their most depraved when abusing their cat."
  1858. [17:25] <[PB]Teilya> W-Wha?! Master?
  1859. [17:26] * [GM]Ludwig spins around at Alexis. "Shut up! It's your fault, filling me with th... whoa..." Spinning was a mistake. NOW he falls over.
  1860. [17:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "What are you talking about, master? I don't know what could make your mood so foul on such a nice day."
  1861. [17:28] * [GM]Ludwig clamps one hand over his mouth, and the other grips his cranium like it was trying to crack it to get at the yolk inside.
  1862. [17:30] <[GM]Ludwig> J...
  1863. [17:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "You probably just need your coffee. I'll go get you your coffe. Teilya, look to the master, will you?"
  1864. [17:32] * [Nom]Alexis flees again
  1865. [17:33] <[PB]Teilya> H-Huh? Oh right, uh, okay nya.
  1866. [17:41] * [PB]Teilya , though uncertain of what to do, stands back up and walks up to Ludwig.
  1867. [17:41] <[Gtz]Mary> [the intercom whines and cracks for a moment]
  1868. [17:42] * [GM]Ludwig winces at the sound.
  1869. [17:42] <[PB]Teilya> Um...Master? Do you ne-Oh I'll go and get that.
  1870. [17:43] * [PB]Teilya , after stuffing her pillow behind Ludwig and pushing him to lay down on it, quickly make her way to the intercom.
  1871. [17:43] <[PB]Teilya> This is...uh, the Master's Bedroom nya~
  1872. [17:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Attension- *ahem* all personnel please report to the war room, there has been a transmission from section 8496. It seems to be a simple distress signal with only a Morse code address.
  1873. [17:45] <[GM]Ludwig> AAGHGHALDHFDKJ:JDSFIO#)I*J:KL
  1874. [17:45] <[GM]Ludwig> TURN THAT THING OFF!
  1875. [17:46] <[PB]Teilya> Wha-?! Y-Yes Master!
  1876. [17:46] <[Gtz]Mary> [the intercom cut off shortly after message completion]
  1877. [17:46] * [PB]Teilya quickly switched the intercom off.
  1878. [17:46] * [Nom]Alexis return hesitantly
  1879. [17:47] <[GM]Ludwig> oof...
  1880. [17:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master...I've got you your coffee."
  1881. [17:47] * [GM]Ludwig tries to relax against the pillow, closing his eyes.
  1882. [17:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Coffee?
  1883. [17:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "I HAVE DISTILLED CAFFEINE INTO ITS PUREST FORM--yes, coffee."
  1884. [17:48] * [GM]Ludwig keeps one hand pressed hard against his splitting head and reaches out with the other.
  1885. [17:50] * [Nom]Alexis presses the mug into his hand
  1886. [17:51] * [GM]Ludwig shakily brings the mug to his lips and takes a drink.
  1887. [17:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Aah... that's the stuff...
  1888. [17:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "In any case, master, I think Mary wants us at the war room. We should head over...once you get dressed."
  1889. [17:53] * [GM]Ludwig lets go of his head long enough to make a quick, complicated gesture over the steaming drink before taking another sip.
  1890. [17:54] * [GM]Ludwig stands up, suddenly clear-eyed and awake. "In the war room? Has something happened?"
  1891. [17:55] <[PB]Teilya> Um...I'll go get changed first then...
  1892. [17:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Huh? Oh... uh, yeah, that'd be a good idea.
  1893. [17:55] * [PB]Teilya quickly scurries off, back to her room to change
  1894. [17:56] * [GM]Ludwig strides out the door and towards the war room, taking deeper draughts from the mug as he goes.
  1895. [17:57] * [Nom]Alexis follow diligently
  1896. [17:57] * [PB]Teilya swiftly follows behind after changing into her uniform.
  1897. [17:58] * [GM]Ludwig arrives at the war room, Alexis and Teilya in tow.
  1898. [17:58] * [GM]Ludwig looks an awful fright, but seems confident enough.
  1899. [17:58] <[GM]Ludwig> What's the situation?
  1900. [17:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, yes. We've recieved a distress signal, but there was no communication, only morse code.
  1901. [18:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Sector 8492, it looks like.
  1902. [18:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Never been around there.
  1903. [18:01] <[GM]Ludwig> 8492? Are you sure?
  1904. [18:01] <[GM]Ludwig> That would be right next door to us.
  1905. [18:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> Eh? Really?
  1906. [18:01] <[GM]Ludwig> What are the coordinates?
  1907. [18:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "We have a neighbour? Why don't they ever visit? How cold of them."
  1908. [18:04] <[Gtz]Mary> the coordinates are.... um, one-four-zero-six-seven-zero-point-eight-five, I think.
  1909. [18:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise has it written down.
  1910. [18:04] <[GM]Ludwig> One four zero six... hmm.
  1911. [18:05] * [Pyg]Cerise hands the pad she wrote the coordinates on earlier.
  1912. [18:05] <[Pyg]Cerise> (*to Ludwig)
  1913. [18:05] <[GM]Ludwig> That would put it in Sector 8496, actually.
  1914. [18:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Not far away, but I could have sworn we'd mapped it and found it empty...
  1915. [18:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "So...I don't suppose we can just ignore it and continue in blissful ignorance?"
  1916. [18:07] <[GM]Ludwig> "Not in good conscience, no. There wouldn't be a distress beacon set up if there weren't someone to be in distress."
  1917. [18:07] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  1918. [18:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "As I thought, master."
  1919. [18:07] <[Gtz]Mary> (to Alexis)Of course not. Come, help me with the sonar equipment.
  1920. [18:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> In any case, I'm ready to go if needed, Master.
  1921. [18:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "Of course, Mary. Let's get on with the heroism thing."
  1922. [18:09] <[PB]Teilya> A-And I'll go too...Master...
  1923. [18:10] * [Pyg]Cerise remembers what happened last time.
  1924. [18:11] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya, you should stay. You might get hurt again because of me.
  1925. [18:11] * [PB]Teilya looks at Cerise with a pained expression and shakes her head
  1926. [18:11] <[PB]Teilya> N-No...I-I can't stay afraid...and useless...forever...
  1927. [18:16] * [Pyg]Cerise turns her head to the side. A look of concern crossing her face for a moment.
  1928. [18:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, if you're sure.
  1929. [18:17] * [PB]Teilya nods, trying to force a cheerful smile.
  1930. [18:17] <[Gtz]Mary> It's probably a good idea to send more help this time. Alexis... Could I ask you to go with them?
  1931. [18:17] <[PB]Teilya> I'm sure, Teilya's a good girl, and good girls will be fine nya!
  1932. [18:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> Haha, I'm sure she is...
  1933. [18:18] * [Pyg]Cerise rises on her tiptoes to pat Teilya on the head.
  1934. [18:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "...leave?"
  1935. [18:20] * [PB]Teilya purrs quietly as Cerise pats her head.
  1936. [18:20] * [Nom]Alexis looks almost distressed for a moment
  1937. [18:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, I can't go."
  1938. [18:21] <[Gtz]Mary> I can't recognize anything, there's too much white noise.
  1939. [18:21] <[GM]Ludwig> White noise? That shouldn't be...
  1940. [18:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, could you check the satellite image for 8496?
  1941. [18:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Is there something wrong with the equipment? It was fine yesterday...
  1942. [18:22] <[PB]Teilya> Hm? Oh, yes Master.
  1943. [18:23] * [PB]Teilya pulls out a handheld GPS and attaches a removable view screen onto it. Switching it on, she inserted the co-ordinates and area maps and observed the image.
  1944. [18:24] <[GM]Ludwig> [...the whole sector is crawling with bugs. You can't even begin counting them.]
  1945. [18:24] * [Nom]Alexis takes the opportunity to change the topic
  1946. [18:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh my, that's a lot of bugs.
  1947. [18:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Wow, that would be a bit of a distress, wouldn't it?
  1948. [18:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> Maybe we'll need another person after all.
  1949. [18:25] <[GM]Ludwig> What in the hell could be out there...?!
  1950. [18:26] <[PB]Teilya> S-Some sort of evolved bug...?
  1951. [18:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "Whatever it is, I think in the light of this new revelation we should just all stay in the fortress."
  1952. [18:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> And leave that person to get eaten by them?
  1953. [18:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, be serious.
  1954. [18:27] <[Gtz]Mary> . . .
  1955. [18:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Someone has survived out there, someone the beetles seem to want badly.
  1956. [18:28] <[GM]Ludwig> But...
  1957. [18:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Even with the travel chamber...
  1958. [18:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, there might be nothing there. The signal might be just a malfunction. You shouldn't have to risk your lives following a trap."
  1959. [18:29] <[PB]Teilya> Still, it could also be someone genuinely needing help...
  1960. [18:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "If you go out there there's going to be one more person genuinely needing help."
  1961. [18:32] <[GM]Ludwig> All right. All right.
  1962. [18:32] <[Gtz]Mary> ...It is a risk. Even if it is genuine, there's no telling if we can help them... We are risking the lives of our friends here. Let's try to come up with a plan to minimize danger to Cerise and Teilya.
  1963. [18:33] <[PB]Teilya> Um...I can pack a few boxes of smoke grenades for distraction...
  1964. [18:33] <[GM]Ludwig> Hopefully, there won't be a need for that.
  1965. [18:33] * Kiriko ([email protected]) Quit (Quit: ChatZilla 0.9.83 [Firefox 3.0.3/2008092417])
  1966. [18:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Master Ludwig, do we have any sort of aircraft or fast-maneuver ATVs?
  1967. [18:33] <[PB]Teilya> Nya, hopefully...
  1968. [18:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise, check that transmission again. Trace it. Get those coordinates as precise as you can.
  1969. [18:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, Master.
  1970. [18:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis...
  1971. [18:37] * [Nom]Alexis puts on a pleading look
  1972. [18:37] <[GM]Ludwig> ...you're going to have to go with them.
  1973. [18:37] <[GM]Ludwig> I know.
  1974. [18:37] * [Nom]Alexis 's eyes glaze over
  1975. [18:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Is that your wish, then, master?"
  1976. [18:38] <[Nom]Alexis> !roll 2d6/3
  1977. [18:38] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm sorry. But I fear it is necessary.
  1978. [18:39] <[GM]Ludwig> [RETCON: WRONG CHANNEL FAGET]
  1979. [18:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis... I'm sorry. If I could, I would go in your stead, but I would simply burden the others.
  1980. [18:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "Very well then. As long as you have made the choice."
  1981. [18:40] * [Nom]Alexis strides out of the warroom
  1982. [18:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Besides, there is a chance they may track you back to this location. In that case, Mary, your powers would be needed here.
  1983. [18:40] * [Pyg]Cerise moves to the console and replays the distress signal. She mumbles to herself, trying to recall how to trace signals again. It's been a while since she's handled the electronics.
  1984. [18:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Right.
  1985. [18:43] * [Pyg]Cerise 's eyes light up upon finally tracking it down. She scratches the coordinates on another pad.
  1986. [18:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> There we go.
  1987. [18:44] * [Pyg]Cerise walks over to Ludwig, handing over the paper she just wrote one.
  1988. [18:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> Here, Master.
  1989. [18:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> (*on)
  1990. [18:45] * [GM]Ludwig takes the paper, looks it over, and nods.
  1991. [18:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Excellent. This will do nicely.
  1992. [18:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Everyone, to the travel chamber!
  1993. [18:46] * [GM]Ludwig strides out, leading the way.
  1994. [18:46] * [PB]Teilya nods, and follows after Ludwig.
  1995. [18:47] <[GM]Ludwig> [And so, the travel chamber.]
  1996. [18:47] * [Nom]Alexis is already there, sitting in the corner and hugging her knees, muttering to herself
  1997. [18:47] <[GM]Ludwig> All right.
  1998. [18:47] <[GM]Ludwig> ...
  1999. [18:47] * [Pyg]Cerise adjusts the strap of her rifle on her should as she follows suit.
  2000. [18:47] <[GM]Ludwig> All right.
  2001. [18:47] * [GM]Ludwig closes his eyes and composes himself.
  2002. [18:48] <[GM]Ludwig> ...All right.
  2003. [18:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, Cerise, find whoever sent that beacon.
  2004. [18:48] * [PB]Teilya goes into the chamber, then nods at Ludwig and gets to work.
  2005. [18:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, Master.
  2006. [18:49] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis...
  2007. [18:49] * [GM]Ludwig looks around and finds her.
  2008. [18:49] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis. It's time to go.
  2009. [18:49] * [GM]Ludwig crosses over and offers her his hand, face sympathetic.
  2010. [18:49] * [Pyg]Cerise steps into the chamber after Teilya.
  2011. [18:49] * [Nom]Alexis stands up, not taking Ludwig's hand or even making eye contact
  2012. [18:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise- wait...
  2013. [18:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh? Mary?
  2014. [18:50] * [GM]Ludwig draws his mouth back into a straight line, but doesn't say anything. "Come on, Alexis. It's time to go."
  2015. [18:50] <[GM]Ludwig> [RETCON: fail harder, you derp. Fix it in editing.]
  2016. [18:50] * [Nom]Alexis gets into position slowly, as if dragging chains behind her
  2017. [18:51] <[GM]Ludwig> [No, me.]
  2018. [18:52] * [Gtz]Mary whispers to Cerise
  2019. [18:53] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Cerise... be really careful, okay? If things look bad, just get out of there.
  2020. [18:53] * [Pyg]Cerise listens intently, and nods vigorously.
  2021. [18:54] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll definitely be back! Count on it!
  2022. [18:54] * [GM]Ludwig follows behind Alexis, but stops at the door.
  2023. [18:54] * [Gtz]Mary changes her previously sullen look to a smile
  2024. [18:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise.... Thanks.
  2025. [18:58] * Ataisai ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout: 240 seconds)
  2026. [18:58] * [GM]Ludwig stands with one hand on the chamber door, looking over the departing group.
  2027. [18:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Everyone...
  2028. [18:59] * [GM]Ludwig walks inside, stretching out his small arms to try and bring the three of you into a huddled embrace.
  2029. [19:00] <[PB]Teilya> Uwah?!
  2030. [19:02] * [Nom]Alexis almost manages a smile
  2031. [19:02] <[GM]Ludwig> Everyone... whatever else you do...
  2032. [19:02] <[GM]Ludwig> Come back safe.
  2033. [19:03] <[GM]Ludwig> [2d6 emergency favor, you three.]
  2034. [19:04] * [GM]Ludwig lingers there for a moment, then breaks away and heads back out to the door.
  2035. [19:04] <[GM]Ludwig> All prepared?
  2036. [19:05] * [PB]Teilya gives Ludwig a cheerful smile and nodded.
  2037. [19:05] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~! We'll be fine Master!
  2038. [19:05] * [Nom]Alexis gives a slight nod. Or maybe that was just a shiver.
  2039. [19:05] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ready to go, Master.
  2040. [19:05] <[GM]Ludwig> All right, then. Godspeed and good luck.
  2041. [19:06] * [GM]Ludwig closes the door and recites the incantation, sending his servants on towards...?
  2042. [19:06] <[Gtz]Mary> God be with you.
  2043. [19:06] <[GM]Ludwig> [Aaaaaand scene~]
  2044. [19:06] <[GM]Ludwig> [Lunch break!]
  2045. [19:06] <[PB]Teilya> OH YES! LUNCH!
  2046. [19:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> GET ME THE FUCK OUT OF THIS THING, IT'S HOT!
  2047. [19:08] <[Gtz]Mary> [RETCON!]
  2048. [19:09] * [Gtz]Mary rewinding sounds
  2049. [19:09] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Cerise... be really careful, okay? If things look bad, just get out of there.
  2050. [19:09] * [Pyg]Cerise listens intently, and nods vigorously.
  2051. [19:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll definitely be back! Count on it!
  2052. [19:10] <[Gtz]Mary> 14watch after Teilya and Alexis. They're afraid... but so am I.
  2053. [19:11] * [Gtz]Mary fidgets with her shirt, pulling out a small silver cross
  2054. [19:13] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Did I ever tell you about this? My mother gave me this cross five years ago, before the troubles came. I've always kept it in her memory, and use it to strengthen my will. Also... I want you to keep it for me.
  2055. [19:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> Aw, Mary, I don't deserve something like this...
  2056. [19:15] * [Pyg]Cerise 's face flushes.
  2057. [19:15] <[Gtz]Mary> 14This cross is my faith in someone. I'm giving it to you, because I believe in you.
  2058. [19:17] <[Gtz]Mary> *ahem* Now... I won't have to worry about getting it back now, will I? Because you'll definitely return, safe and sound. Right?
  2059. [19:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> Damn right, I will!
  2060. [19:18] * [Pyg]Cerise puffs her chest out with her hands on her hips.
  2061. [19:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> Don't you worry!
  2062. [19:18] * [Gtz]Mary stops looking so sullen, and brings herself to a smile
  2063. [19:19] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise... Thanks. 14 you've always been there for me...
  2064. [19:26] <[Gtz]Mary> [AND WRAP!]
  2065. [19:33] <[Nom]Alexis> We interrupt your scheduled Maid game with this flashback
  2066. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "You charlatan! What happened to her?"
  2067. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "To the girl? Nothing �happened�. Anyway, your maid volunteered for this. And you consented. You should both have known the risks involved."
  2068. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "You said this would work! What the hell happened?!"
  2069. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "Isn�t it obvious, you daft fool? We botched the summoning. Even a third-rate amateur can figure it out."
  2070. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "I had your word, damn it! This was supposed to be failsafe!"
  2071. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "What on God�s green Earth have they been teaching you about magic? Nothing is �failsafe�, Beetleoven. This is unforeseen, yes, but we did expect potential consequences."
  2072. [19:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "That�s not what I meant! It wasn�t supposed to end up like this! What�s going to happen to Alexis?!"
  2073. [19:51] <[GM]Ludwig> [Back and whatever.]
  2074. [19:56] <[GM]Ludwig> [First, a short scene back at the fortress:]
  2075. [19:57] * [GM]Ludwig concludes the incantation, and the chamber door vanishes.
  2076. [19:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... there they go.
  2077. [19:58] <[Gtz]Mary> They'll be fine. 14 They have to be...
  2078. [19:59] <[GM]Ludwig> I, um, saw what you did with Cerise.
  2079. [19:59] <[GM]Ludwig> She's a very close friend to you, isn't she?
  2080. [19:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm? Oh... Yeah, she really is...
  2081. [19:59] * [GM]Ludwig smiles.
  2082. [20:00] * [Gtz]Mary still looks kinda nervous
  2083. [20:00] <[GM]Ludwig> That's good.
  2084. [20:00] <[GM]Ludwig> Things the way they are... we all need each other's support.
  2085. [20:01] <[GM]Ludwig> But sometimes, we... need a little more than that.
  2086. [20:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes. We all need someone to lean on. Our generation is one born in strife; no one can hope to stand alone.
  2087. [20:01] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm... just glad you have that with her.
  2088. [20:03] <[Gtz]Mary> sigh... I hate this. I hate feeling so helpless. All I can do is wait, and pray...
  2089. [20:04] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary...?
  2090. [20:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh- Yes, what is it?
  2091. [20:05] * [GM]Ludwig sounds uncertain.
  2092. [20:05] <[Gtz]Mary> What? I can't hear you. Come closer.
  2093. [20:05] <[GM]Ludwig> ...
  2094. [20:06] * [GM]Ludwig walks up to Mary and stands in front of her, looking up at her face and taking both of her hands in his. God, but they're soft...
  2095. [20:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, I want to apologize for what I did last night.
  2096. [20:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Apologize? For what? If this is still about that summer thing, don't worry about it...
  2097. [20:08] <[GM]Ludwig> No, it's not about th... that... er.
  2098. [20:09] * [GM]Ludwig is momentarily distracted by runaway thoughts. Luckily, Mary can't see his full-body blush. He clears his throat, rallies, and tries again.
  2099. [20:09] * [Gtz]Mary brings a hand to Ludwig's face
  2100. [20:09] <[GM]Ludwig> I wanted to apologize for the party, later.
  2101. [20:10] <[GM]Ludwig> I let the situation carry me along, and acted impulsively.
  2102. [20:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh... for your proposal? I thought that was a joke...
  2103. [20:10] <[GM]Ludwig> I didn't realize it at the time, but you were right to respond as you did. It was an earnest, but very childish gesture.
  2104. [20:11] * [GM]Ludwig tightens his grip on Mary's hands ever so slightly.
  2105. [20:11] <[GM]Ludwig> I won't make that mistake again.
  2106. [20:11] <[Gtz]Mary> ohoh, come on, Master Ludwig. You don't have to be sorry for that.
  2107. [20:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, Mary, I do.
  2108. [20:11] <[GM]Ludwig> It is a serious matter, choosing my bride.
  2109. [20:11] <[GM]Ludwig> It should be treated seriously.
  2110. [20:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmhm... Want to know something, Master Ludwig?
  2111. [20:12] * [GM]Ludwig blinks. Something?
  2112. [20:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes?
  2113. [20:13] <[Gtz]Mary> ...It's always been my dream to get married and have a family of my own. One day, I want to be a mother. Even in this cruel world, there things that make it worth to bring life into it.
  2114. [20:14] <[Gtz]Mary> Things... have changed. But II still hope to fulfill that dream one day.
  2115. [20:15] * [GM]Ludwig 's jaw drops open. Never expected to hear THAT.
  2116. [20:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Umm... Master Ludwig, are you alright?
  2117. [20:16] * [GM]Ludwig closes his mouth and seriouses up again.
  2118. [20:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, if I can...
  2119. [20:17] <[GM]Ludwig> I mean...
  2120. [20:17] * [GM]Ludwig starts blushing again. Stop working so hard, you stupid imagination!
  2121. [20:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Maybe when I'm a bit older... er...
  2122. [20:18] * [GM]Ludwig shakes his head vigorously and goes back to the original plan.
  2123. [20:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary!
  2124. [20:18] * [Gtz]Mary starts giggling like a little schoolgirl
  2125. [20:18] <[Gtz]Mary> Master Ludwig... do you have a... crush on me?
  2126. [20:19] * [GM]Ludwig is amazed by how unflustered he is by that question, and by his response:
  2127. [20:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes.
  2128. [20:19] <[GM]Ludwig> I've never felt this way about anyone else but you, Mary. I suppose "crush" is as good a word for it as anything.
  2129. [20:19] <[GM]Ludwig> And I promise.
  2130. [20:20] * [Gtz]Mary smiles deeply, and brings ole' Luddy into an embrace
  2131. [20:20] <[GM]Ludwig> I won't ever propose to you again, until I'm sure I can mean it.
  2132. [20:21] <[GM]Ludwig> And until I'm sure... you want to hear it.
  2133. [20:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmhm, okay. Be sure to grow up to be strong and wise, okay? I want a man who can raise a family, a man who will always be there for his wife, children, and friends. And a strong, handsome man, that's just my type~
  2134. [20:23] * [GM]Ludwig laughs, relieved, and hugs her tight (yet chastely).
  2135. [20:24] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll certainly do my best!
  2136. [20:24] <[GM]Ludwig> ...for you.
  2137. [20:25] * [GM]Ludwig lets go after a while, and steps back.
  2138. [20:25] <[Gtz]Mary> I used to think God was always testing me, but I've come to learn that I'm very fortunate. Thank you, Master Ludwig, for everything you and your family has done for me.
  2139. [20:25] <[GM]Ludwig> But, for now, there's work to be done.
  2140. [20:26] <[GM]Ludwig> It's... genuinely been my pleasure, Mary.
  2141. [20:29] <[GM]Ludwig> [I guess that's wrapped up enough.]
  2142. [20:29] <[GM]Ludwig> [Time for the action segment!]
  2143. [20:35] <[GM]Tetro> [The whole teleporty thing happens, and poof. I don't feel like going back to read the description again, you guys figure it out. :P]
  2144. [20:36] <[GM]Tetro> The coordinates must have been very precise. You all find yourselves standing in a vast, barren, practically featureless plain, right next to the only actual feature in sight: a well-disguised tunnel entrance, leading underground.
  2145. [20:39] * [Nom]Alexis at last speaks up
  2146. [20:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "You must listen to me very carefully. This expedition is more dangerous than you think. If I tell you to run, you must run. Flee back to this waypoint, and under no circumstances are you to look back. Is that clear?"
  2147. [20:40] * [PB]Teilya blinks at Alexis. She's never this serious before...
  2148. [20:41] <[PB]Teilya> Nya? Uh...sure I guess...
  2149. [20:41] * [Pyg]Cerise has her rifle ready.
  2150. [20:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "No! You are not taking this seriously! I NEED YOUR WORD"
  2151. [20:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, ma'am!
  2152. [20:43] <[PB]Teilya> U-Uwah! Yes, ma'am!
  2153. [20:43] <[Nom]Alexis> "Thank you."
  2154. [20:44] * [Nom]Alexis spasms
  2155. [20:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let's go"
  2156. [20:44] <[PB]Teilya> Y-Yes ma'am!
  2157. [20:45] * [Pyg]Cerise is a little shaken by Alexis's sudden seriousness, but takes a deep breath and steels herself for the task at hand.
  2158. [20:46] <[Nom]Alexis> [so off we go, down a suspicious looking tunnel without knowing where it leads]
  2159. [20:47] <[GM]Tetro> The tunnel continues at a distinct, but not steep, downward slope, straight ahead for a couple of minutes. The walls are metal, not immediately identifiable.
  2160. [20:48] <[GM]Tetro> [For simplicity's sake, Teilya has some kind of beacon detector.]
  2161. [20:49] <[GM]Tetro> Finally, the tunnel branches off in three directions.
  2162. [20:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teiyla," *spasm* "Which way?"
  2163. [20:51] <[GM]Tetro> From all three, you can distantly hear the unmistakeable chittering of beetles. Lots of them.
  2164. [20:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> M-Miss Alexis, is something wrong?
  2165. [20:51] * [PB]Teilya looks at the screen and points to the right nervously, obviously not comfortable with the idea of facing those beetles.
  2166. [20:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Never mind that," *spasm* "We must focus."
  2167. [20:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "We'll go right then."
  2168. [20:52] <[PB]Teilya> L-Let's go then.
  2169. [20:54] * [Pyg]Cerise wrinkles her brow at Alexis's response. That must mean yes. She procceds to follow the two down the indicated tunnel.
  2170. [20:55] <[GM]Tetro> The branch continues the downward trend. Doors line this tunnel, some closed fast, some hanging open, some missing. The signal continues coming from ahead.
  2171. [20:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "This is taking far too long," *spasm* "Where are we going?"
  2172. [20:56] <[GM]Tetro> The sound of beetles grows louder, reaching its peak at the next branch.
  2173. [20:57] <[GM]Tetro> The signal comes from one way, very close now, but the beetles are down the other.
  2174. [20:59] <[PB]Teilya> W-Well...
  2175. [20:59] * [PB]Teilya looks at the screen.
  2176. [20:59] <[PB]Teilya> T-The signals are from here, away from the sounds of beetles...but...
  2177. [20:59] * [PB]Teilya bites her lips lightly
  2178. [21:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Then we go that way. We must return to the mansion as quickly as possible."
  2179. [21:00] <[PB]Teilya> I have a really bad feeling about this...
  2180. [21:00] * [Pyg]Cerise has assumed a more ready stance, the rifle nozzle barely aimed downward in case she has to raise it for a quick shot.
  2181. [21:02] <[GM]Tetro> Leaving the insectile chirping behind for now, you head down towards the source of the beacon...
  2182. [21:03] <[GM]Tetro> This final tunnel is relatively short, soon dead-ending at a large door set in the wall.
  2183. [21:04] * [Nom]Alexis leans on the door, and tries to open it
  2184. [21:04] <[GM]Tetro> The surface metal is scratched and dented where several large somethings seem to have tried to break it down, but clearly, failed. A keypad is off to one side, untouched.
  2185. [21:05] <[PB]Teilya> Um...let me try that keypad...
  2186. [21:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Quickly, please"
  2187. [21:06] <[GM]Tetro> [Keycode hackin' - Skill Check!]
  2188. [21:12] <[GM]Tetro> [Rolling check, btw]
  2189. [21:13] <[GM]Tetro> [First roll: 3 Skill, boosted to 4 with Favor (1); roll was 5, total success so far: 20. It's close...!]
  2190. [21:14] * [PB]Teilya takes out a device and linked it up with the keypad. She inserted a few commands, and the code flashed green. However, the door doesn't seem to respond. Perhaps it's jammed?
  2191. [21:15] <[GM]Tetro> Back down the hall, the chittering starts up again... getting closer. You've been detected!
  2192. [21:15] * [Pyg]Cerise wheels around.
  2193. [21:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> Not good!
  2194. [21:16] <[GM]Tetro> Luckily, it's still distant, but time even less on your side now than it was before...
  2195. [21:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "We don't have--" *cring* "--long. Try--" *cringe* "--again!"
  2196. [21:18] <[PB]Teilya> I-It's c-correct! I'm sure of it!
  2197. [21:18] <[PB]Teilya> There must be something jamming the doors!
  2198. [21:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "You two try to get it open. I shall see to...OUR GUESTS."
  2199. [21:22] * [Nom]Alexis has stopped shaking. She goes back down the tunnel
  2200. [21:23] <[GM]Tetro> [Hmm, okay then. Here's an idea:]
  2201. [21:23] <[GM]Tetro> [Joint effort on the door, Cerise's Athletics getting it unjammed, while Teilya's Skill rechecks the code. Sound good?]
  2202. [21:24] <[GM]Tetro> [Agreed. OOC. Take my word for it.]
  2203. [21:24] <[GM]Tetro> [Joint Check!]
  2204. [21:31] <[GM]Tetro> [Each boosted (each for 1 Favor again, can you believe it?!); Teilya got a 3 for Skill, making 12, Cerise got a 6 for Athletics, making 18; total 30, plus 20 is 50. Beats the door difficulty of 30 by a long shot.]
  2205. [21:32] * [Nom]Alexis heads towards the bugs. The shadows follow.
  2206. [21:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Bugs. Bugs. Bugsbugsbugsbugs. THE ONES WE HAVE TO KILL"
  2207. [21:35] <[Nom]Alexis> [the shadows draw closer towards Alexis, like great wings of darkness. They cloak her, and her eyes and garb changing to a pitch black]
  2208. [21:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "COME OUT, YOU FOOLS. COME OUT, THOSE WHO TIRE OF THE MORTAL COIL"
  2209. [21:36] <[GM]Tetro> The beetles come out. Whether they understood you or not, they are here.
  2210. [21:37] <[GM]Tetro> Common type, about as big as a bus. Looks like a dozen of them.
  2211. [21:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "WRETCHES. SUBHUMAN WASTE. LET ME GRANT YOU PEACE."
  2212. [21:38] * [Nom]Alexis stretches out her arms and lifts off the ground
  2213. [21:39] <[Nom]Alexis> *OH JUDGEMENT OF THE TWO CITIES, HERALD OF THE THREE RIDERS, BLADE OF THE SEVEN KINGS.*
  2214. [21:39] <[Nom]Alexis> [the tunnels darken]
  2215. [21:39] <[Nom]Alexis> *DARKNESS THAT BINDS THE UNIVERSE*
  2216. [21:40] <[Nom]Alexis> [silence]
  2217. [21:40] <[Nom]Alexis> *TAKE THESE SUFFERERS INTO THE EMBRACE OF OBLIVION*
  2218. [21:44] <[Nom]Alexis> [the earth splits open, and a pair of great jaws of flame and shadow rises out of the pit to consume the bugs]
  2219. [21:46] <[GM]Tetro> That takes care of them. But the chittering from farther up the tunnel becomes a screeching alarm.
  2220. [21:47] <[GM]Tetro> More are coming. Many. And they are not happy.
  2221. [21:48] <[GM]Tetro> [Back at the door?]
  2222. [21:49] * [PB]Teilya nods as the passcode blips green again
  2223. [21:49] <[PB]Teilya> I'm sure, the code's absolutely correct!
  2224. [21:49] <[PB]Teilya> I'll run a diagnostic on what's wrong...
  2225. [21:50] * [PB]Teilya pulls out another device and quickly input a long string of commands. Holographic screens soon pops up, showing the whole structure of the door and abnormalies.
  2226. [21:51] <[PB]Teilya> As I thought! It's the gears being rusty, adding a few more jams that caused it to not work. Cerise, try opening the doors pulling to your right!
  2227. [21:53] <[PB]Teilya> [*by pulling]
  2228. [21:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Gotcha'.
  2229. [21:54] * [Pyg]Cerise grasps the doors, breathing in and out a few times before finally pulling with as much strength as her body allows.
  2230. [21:55] <[GM]Tetro> Slowly, the door grinds open. The going gets easier after a second, apparently clearing the jammed gear.
  2231. [21:56] <[GM]Tetro> Inside is a smallish, bright white room. Computer terminals and displays cover every wall.
  2232. [21:57] * [PB]Teilya packs her stuffs and glance into the room with awe.
  2233. [21:57] <[PB]Teilya> Wow...
  2234. [21:58] <[GM]Tetro> There are two occupants: one is a girl, floating in a large transparent tube at the room's far end. The other is... or was... a man.
  2235. [21:59] * [Pyg]Cerise is wary of the surroundings, scanning the room for any hostiles.
  2236. [21:59] <[GM]Tetro> The severity of his wounds is apparent from here. Whoever he was, he sure seems to have put up a hell of a fight.
  2237. [22:00] <[PB]Teilya> H-Hey, mister, are you alright?
  2238. [22:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> I doubt he's alive anymore, Miss Teilya.
  2239. [22:00] * [PB]Teilya quickly rushes up to the man, pulling out a first aid kit on the way. However, she already know the outcome.
  2240. [22:01] <[PB]Teilya> I-I don't care! I know it's useless, but...
  2241. [22:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> Don't waste that on him.
  2242. [22:01] <[GM]Tetro> Improbably, the figure stirs at Teilya's voice and touch. A broken mouth in a ruined face moves painfully, voice barely a whisper.
  2243. [22:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> We'll need it more than he does.
  2244. [22:01] <[PB]Teilya> !
  2245. [22:01] <[PB]Teilya> He's still alive! Sir, can you hear me?
  2246. [22:02] <[GM]Tetro> 15"Sam... my Sam... they've come..."
  2247. [22:02] <[GM]Tetro> 15"You must... protect..."
  2248. [22:02] <[GM]Tetro> 15"..."
  2249. [22:02] * [Pyg]Cerise can barely hear the man's dying words.
  2250. [22:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> What did he say?
  2251. [22:02] <[PB]Teilya> ...
  2252. [22:03] * [PB]Teilya tried to apply first aid, but stopped soon after.
  2253. [22:03] <[GM]Tetro> Those words were his last.
  2254. [22:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya, please, we need to focus on whoever else is alive.
  2255. [22:04] * [PB]Teilya shook her head sadly, laid the man down and closed his eyes, whispering a prayer for the fallen man.
  2256. [22:04] * [Pyg]Cerise 's eyes wander to the girl in the tube.
  2257. [22:04] * [PB]Teilya then looks back up at Cerise
  2258. [22:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> Are we supposed to take her out of that thing?
  2259. [22:04] <[PB]Teilya> He said...to protect Sam, which I assume is the girl in the tube...
  2260. [22:04] * [PB]Teilya nods
  2261. [22:05] <[PB]Teilya> I'll handle the electronics...you go and help Alexis...
  2262. [22:05] <[GM]Tetro> From behind, the sound of approaching beetles. Then, an odd, dull roar, and a moment of silence.
  2263. [22:05] <[GM]Tetro> Broken by the scream of an enraged swarm.
  2264. [22:05] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...No, I'll stay here. Miss Alexis probably wouldn't want that.
  2265. [22:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> Besides I...I should stay here and protect you.
  2266. [22:06] <[PB]Teilya> ...
  2267. [22:06] * [PB]Teilya looks up at Cerise and smiles warmly.
  2268. [22:07] * [Pyg]Cerise shakes her head to snap out of it.
  2269. [22:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> Sounds like they're coming anyway...
  2270. [22:07] * [PB]Teilya glances at the door, sighs, and nods.
  2271. [22:07] <[PB]Teilya> Yes, we better hurry then, right nya~?
  2272. [22:08] * [Pyg]Cerise hefts her rifle, her finger sitting outside the trigger ring, as she turns to face the open door.
  2273. [22:08] * [PB]Teilya quickly begin to work on the consoles, pulling different devices once in awhile to help.
  2274. [22:09] <[GM]Tetro> Finding the release mechanism for the tube is a very quick job; with a hiss, it slides open, and the girl inside floats down to the bottom and crumples in a sleeping heap.
  2275. [22:09] * [Pyg]Cerise tries to glance back, but keeps her focus on the tunnel as she hears the noise from the machine.
  2276. [22:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> Is she out yet, Miss Teilya?
  2277. [22:10] * [PB]Teilya quickly abandons her machines and picks the girl out of the tube.
  2278. [22:10] <[PB]Teilya> Yes, let's go!
  2279. [22:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, try to stay close behind me.
  2280. [22:11] * [PB]Teilya holds the girl with one hand, pockets all her equipments and switch the positions to a more comfortable one.
  2281. [22:13] * [Pyg]Cerise starts down the tunnel, adrenaline kicking in, sharpening her senses. If it doesn't look like Miss Alexis, put one right in its head.
  2282. [22:15] * [PB]Teilya starts to follow Cerise, but stops a bit and quickly pulls out a plasma bomb from her pockets. Activating it, she quickly runs after the other maid. The bomb was set to detonate 15 minutes later.
  2283. [22:16] <[PB]Teilya> [*7 minutes, actually]
  2284. [22:17] * [Nom]Alexis Alexis stumbles back down the corridor towards them, looking relatively normal but a bit pale
  2285. [22:17] * [Pyg]Cerise lowers her rifle at the sight of a fellow maid.
  2286. [22:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Are we done here? We really need to go."
  2287. [22:17] * [PB]Teilya , who was quickly catching up, nods at Alexis' question.
  2288. [22:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, we got to the distress signal.
  2289. [22:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> We really should go.
  2290. [22:18] <[PB]Teilya> Nya, let's hurry back!
  2291. [22:18] <[GM]Tetro> The screeching never stops as you run back up the tunnels.
  2292. [22:19] <[Nom]Alexis> [running!]
  2293. [22:19] <[GM]Tetro> Suddenly, a beetle comes crashing through the wall, bashing down one of the doors!
  2294. [22:21] <[GM]Tetro> While you're all collecting yourselves, it rushes at Cerise!
  2295. [22:21] <[GM]Tetro> [COMBAT!]
  2296. [22:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, um..."
  2297. [22:22] * [Nom]Alexis steps behind Teilya
  2298. [22:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Go get it, tiger!"
  2299. [22:26] <[GM]Tetro> [Resolved: 4 vs. 2, a marginal win for the home team, but enough to take it out.]
  2300. [22:28] * [Pyg]Cerise manages to dodge the bug's incoming attack. In retaliation, she quickly wheels around, emptying a bullet into the creature.
  2301. [22:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> That was close...
  2302. [22:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let's get back to escaping with our lives then"
  2303. [22:30] <[Nom]Alexis> [ie more running!]
  2304. [22:33] <[GM]Tetro> [RETCON - those bugs back there weren't the size of a bus, they were the size of a Beetle. Like, a V-Dub.]
  2305. [22:34] <[GM]Tetro> In the distance, where you should be able to see the first branching from here, is a mass of beetles, headed directly for you.
  2306. [22:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah! Just let us go home, you damn bugs!
  2307. [22:37] * [PB]Teilya bite her lips lightly, and with her free hand pulls out her beloved war hammer.
  2308. [22:37] <[PB]Teilya> Prepare to be squashed, nya!
  2309. [22:38] <[GM]Tetro> Speaking of squashed...
  2310. [22:38] <[GM]Tetro> Coming up from behind those bugs is another one. Larger. Like, a bus-bug. (For real this time.)
  2311. [22:38] <[GM]Tetro> And it's not too picky about mowing down its friends to get to you.
  2312. [22:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Um, Bug? Should that be Mr Bug? Just let us through and no one needs to get hurt. Really."
  2313. [22:39] * [Nom]Alexis hides behind the other two
  2314. [22:40] <[PB]Teilya> Um...we should just clear a path out, I uh...planted a bomb in that basement...
  2315. [22:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> We'll need to slow it down though.
  2316. [22:41] <[GM]Tetro> Mr. Bug doesn't seem to be listening. And he barely fits in this tunnel as it is. The only way out seems to be through.
  2317. [22:41] <[GM]Tetro> [COMBAT!]
  2318. [22:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll take care of it. Just get rid of the ones in front, Miss Teilya just in case I mess up!
  2319. [22:41] <[PB]Teilya> Gotcha!
  2320. [22:42] * [Nom]Alexis takes several deep breaths and tries to calm herself down
  2321. [22:49] <[GM]Tetro> [Cerise and Teilya both Favor boost, for 5 and 3 cost.]
  2322. [22:50] <[PB]Teilya> Well, I guess that fat lard squashed it's own mates. Let's clear it out!
  2323. [22:53] <[GM]Tetro> [Resolved - 18 + 15 = 33 / 3 = 11, one more than its 10 Spirit. Busbug is dead.]
  2324. [22:53] <[PB]Teilya> NYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
  2325. [22:54] * [PB]Teilya with a war chant raise her hammer and jumped up into the air. Then, with a hard swing, brings the heavy blunt weapon down onto the bug's skull.
  2326. [22:55] <[GM]Tetro> [*head]
  2327. [22:55] <[PB]Teilya> [Retcon: Head, then]
  2328. [22:57] * [Pyg]Cerise crouches low, supporting herself on one knee as she raises the scope to her eyes. Holding her breath, she takes aim at the head. She fires two shots right after the other.
  2329. [22:58] * [Pyg]Cerise grins as the shots impact. Lucky!
  2330. [22:58] <[GM]Tetro> Between the two, its head cracks open messily. Its body stumbles forward a couple of steps, then falls to the floor and doesn't move.
  2331. [22:58] <[GM]Tetro> Looks like you can squeeze around it, now.
  2332. [22:59] <[PB]Teilya> YEEEEEEEEAAAAAH! Take that buggy~!
  2333. [22:59] * [PB]Teilya motions for Alexis.
  2334. [22:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll watch your backs.
  2335. [22:59] <[PB]Teilya> Lets go!
  2336. [23:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Right, off we go."
  2337. [23:00] * [Nom]Alexis limps a bit
  2338. [23:01] <[GM]Tetro> You reach the branch safely, if a bit messily. Bug guts everywhere, ew.
  2339. [23:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> We'll need showers after this...
  2340. [23:01] <[PB]Teilya> Uwawah...we will need more than showers...
  2341. [23:01] <[PB]Teilya> Let's take a bath together later!
  2342. [23:02] <[GM]Tetro> Fortunately, it looks like you just waded through most of the bugs down here. You can still hear a few stragglers coming up from behind, though.
  2343. [23:15] <[GM]Tetro> You keep running up towards the entrance... it's just in sight...
  2344. [23:15] <[GM]Tetro> ...wait, was the ceiling sagging like that when you came in?
  2345. [23:15] <[GM]Tetro> ...wait, should metal be sagging like that at all?!
  2346. [23:16] <[GM]Tetro> *KARASH*
  2347. [23:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> What was that?
  2348. [23:16] <[GM]Tetro> The tunnel collapses ahead of you!
  2349. [23:16] <[GM]Tetro> As the dust clears...
  2350. [23:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Not something that wants to kill us, right? Time to break the trend, right?"
  2351. [23:17] <[PB]Teilya> Wah?
  2352. [23:17] <[PB]Teilya> [*!]
  2353. [23:17] <[GM]Tetro> ...SHIT, that thing must have huge guts.
  2354. [23:17] <[PB]Teilya> WHAT IS THAT THING?!
  2355. [23:17] <[GM]Tetro> Whatever it is, it doesn't look like any regular sized bug you've ever seen.
  2356. [23:18] <[GM]Tetro> The size of a building, it takes just a second to right itself and raise its front end up to appraise you.
  2357. [23:19] <[GM]Tetro> On the plus side, the screaming from behind has stopped. Then again, is that really a plus?
  2358. [23:20] * huh ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout: 240 seconds)
  2359. [23:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hello up there! You wouldn't be one of those pacifist bugs, would you? You know, part of the bug anti-war movement? You are, aren't you?"
  2360. [23:21] <[GM]Tetro> The thing chirps once, deafeningly. It didn't sound like a "yes".
  2361. [23:22] <[GM]Tetro> [COMBAT!]
  2362. [23:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't do this, Mr Bug. I won't be able to help myself. I'm really trying here."
  2363. [23:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm really...trying...hard...please."
  2364. [23:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "DON'T MAKE ME KILL"
  2365. [23:39] <[GM]Tetro> [Resolution - After various Favor boosts, Teilya contributes a 6 Ath, and Cerise an 18 Skill. Alexis Devil Shifts into her Butler form and casts a spell, rolling 5 against 9 Will for 45, total of 63. Higher than the 36 the bug rolled.]
  2366. [23:39] <[GM]Tetro> [So, 63 / 3 = about 10 Stress. Mental note, figure out something other than Will to roll for magic. That's just broken.]
  2367. [23:40] * [Nom]Alexis restrains herself for the moment, then pulls out a book, a black hardback affair adorned with only a cross on the front
  2368. [23:41] * [PB]Teilya grits her teeth and grips her war hammer tighter. Then, with a few steps she runs up to the bug and delivers a smash at it's stomach. Quickly she retreats back to allied lines.
  2369. [23:42] * [Pyg]Cerise moves up from behind the group to get a clear shot at the giant insect. The target is too large for precise work so she keeps her eyes away from the scope. Taking aim she lets off a shot at one of the bug's leg joints.
  2370. [23:45] <[GM]Tetro> [Correction: Alexis' player decided to switch to Skill instead, for a slightly fairer roll. 5 * 5 = 25 + 18 = 43, still enough to win. 43 / 6 = 7, so yeah.]
  2371. [23:46] * [Nom]Alexis tears out a page and...sets it on fire
  2372. [23:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "HELL IS WASTE ON YOU. BURN HERE AND NOW."
  2373. [23:49] <[GM]Tetro> The bug, for its part, is beset from too many sides. By the time it manages to swing at one target, it's already gone and another is hitting it.
  2374. [23:51] * [Kiri]Hans is standing on top of debris. His cloak swayed in the wind, revealing his pitch-black shotgun with smoke on its barrel.
  2375. [23:51] <[Kiri]Hans> You are not getting away this time, bug!
  2376. [23:52] <[GM]Tetro> Screeching, the bug twists its upper half around to face the arrival of a new challenger.
  2377. [23:53] * [nfty]Sven stand up beside Hans, somewhat crazed look upon his face, a strangly-shaped grenade in one hand and pistol in the other. "Ah, is gigantic beetle bug! Now we kill, yes?"
  2378. [23:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "HAVE MORE OF YOU COME SEEKING DEATH? THEN DIE--"
  2379. [23:56] * [Nom]Alexis refocuses
  2380. [23:56] * [nfty]Sven gets things started and tosses a grenade at the beetle's upper half "Die? Only thing dies is you, not us!"
  2381. [23:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Actually, this is a good time to run. Let's run. Come on, we're leaving."
  2382. [23:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wait a minute! It's those bastards from the armory!
  2383. [23:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Fine.
  2384. [23:57] <[PB]Teilya> N-NO! NOT THEM! GET THEM AWAY! GET THEM AWAY!
  2385. [23:57] * [Nom]Alexis sighs. She's tired. Awfully tired.
  2386. [23:57] * [Pyg]Cerise disappointed that she won't get her chance for revenge yet, she does as Alexis says.
  2387. [23:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> Just keep going, Miss Teilya. Don't even look at them!
  2388. [23:58] <[Az]Maxwell> You guys are having a bit too much fun. Don't get carried away. Prero! This one seems good enough for you. Have fun with it.
  2389. [23:58] <[Kiri]Hans> Goddamnit, guys! There's a people down there!
  2390. [23:59] * [PB]Teilya glance fearfully at the survivalist group, tears beginning to gather. She nods quickly at Cerise and averts her gaze, quietly mouthing words to herself.
  2391. [23:59] <[nfty]Sven> Ehh? I thought we find bugs in bug lair, not people.
  2392. [23:59] <[Kiri]Hans> Dunno, dude! maybe it's the mindbug again!
  2393. Session Close: Sun Sep 28 00:00:00 2008
  2394.  
  2395. [00:00] <[Kiri]Hans> so, frag 'em too?!
  2396. [00:00] <[GM]Tetro> The bug isn't much for conversation. Its two halves act independently, the lower swiping at the fleeing maids, the upper attacking the survivalist band.
  2397. [00:00] <[GM]Tetro> [DUAL COMBAT!]
  2398. [00:00] <[Az]Maxwell> Last time that happened, we kinda lost Prero, stop that.
  2399. [00:02] <[KC]Prero> Kachung kachung
  2400. [00:02] <[KC]Prero> kachung kachung
  2401. [00:03] * [KC]Prero runs from somewhere off to the side, like a person who's realized suddenly that he's late, and jumps into the group, as if trying to make a spectacular entrance. This effort fails miserably.
  2402. [00:04] <[KC]Prero> HALT, SENIOR WHIRR KACHUNG
  2403. [00:05] <[nfty]Sven> You little bit late there senor.
  2404. [00:05] <[KC]Prero> I was distractioned, whirr kachung
  2405. [00:06] <[KC]Prero> There was a scorpion climbing into my shoes, whirr.
  2406. [00:06] <[nfty]Sven> Well whatever. Shoot this bug so we can send it to you-know-where.
  2407. [00:06] <[KC]Prero> SI, SENOR
  2408. [00:07] <[nfty]Sven> Maxwell!! You too, then we eat like kings after this!
  2409. [00:08] <[Az]Maxwell> Right.
  2410. [00:08] * [KC]Prero taps his torso--surprisingly, it produces a metallic sound, and a panel open. From the panel comes something metallic and multi-jointed that ends in a stark white glove, like something out of a Warner Brothers cartoon. The glove is holding some sort of violent looking gun.
  2411. [00:10] * [nfty]Sven stares at Prero before shaking his head "I still find this... contraption too strange."
  2412. [00:10] <[KC]Prero> Strange?
  2413. [00:10] <[Az]Maxwell> At least Prero ain't dead buddy, at least he ain't dead.
  2414. [00:10] * [KC]Prero mutters aside "whirr kachung".
  2415. [00:12] * [nfty]Sven watches gleefully as the giant insect is blown up, smashed, shot and hailed with showers of lead and shrapnel
  2416. [00:12] <[nfty]Sven> Ahh, do you smell that? It is smell of wonderful bug dying!
  2417. [00:13] * [Kiri]Hans run around and fire a consecutive hits frim his three shotgun at the giant bug, spewing insults and profanity language along the way.
  2418. [00:13] <[Kiri]Hans> [*from]
  2419. [00:13] * [nfty]Sven shoots at the giant insect's wiggling legs with his pistol, cackling all the while
  2420. [00:14] * [KC]Prero develops a stiff pose, his limbs spread out. The arm points. The hand on the edge tightens. The gun roars--no it doesn't. It makes a comedic, embarrassing BLAT BLAT BLAT sound.
  2421. [00:16] * [Az]Maxwell loads up a grenade to his launcher attachment and launches it on the beast of a bug.
  2422. [00:16] <[GM]Tetro> The bug's legs swipe and grasp at the fleeing maids, but their teamwork ensures that not a one finds its mark.
  2423. [00:17] <[GM]Tetro> Meanwhile, up top, the combined might of the new Team Rocket puts a series of large holes in the bugs exoskelton. Splat, crunch, etc.
  2424. [00:18] <[GM]Tetro> The titanic insect begins to fall...
  2425. [00:19] <[GM]Tetro> Crawling across the rubble, the maids discover... the returning runes are scattered about, all around you!
  2426. [00:20] <[nfty]Sven> We win! Bloodly bug is no match for our might!
  2427. [00:20] <[Az]Maxwell> Now for something to show the collectors...
  2428. [00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I must say, this is a bit disappointing."
  2429. [00:21] * [Kiri]Hans hans crawling over the dead bug. two hand raising up high clutching his gun. No, wait. He only have one arms left! must be back then when they fought the mechaniloid!
  2430. [00:21] <[PB]Teilya> H-How are we going to get back now?!
  2431. [00:21] <[Kiri]Hans> AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!
  2432. [00:21] <[KC]Prero> Mission accomplishmented! Whirr buzz.
  2433. [00:22] * [KC]Prero folds his gun and arm back into his torso awkwardly, then closes the panel with his other hand.
  2434. [00:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Maybe we can just...put the powerful magics that binds this place back together."
  2435. [00:22] * [nfty]Sven merrily jumps on the bug's broken carapace. "Hey, do you hear voice? I hear it again."
  2436. [00:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> But, Miss Alexis, won't that put a strain on you?
  2437. [00:23] <[Kiri]Hans> Eh? what voice? Lemme enjou my victory a bit, will ya?!
  2438. [00:23] <[Kiri]Hans> blat. I bite my tongue!
  2439. [00:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Me? Who said I was going to do it? I don't know the first thing about the mumbo jumbo; that's Mary's or the master's area"
  2440. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "I was just going to play Lego."
  2441. [00:24] <[nfty]Sven> Fine fine. I take souvenier for collector maybe.
  2442. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "You know, the hip rune connects to the...neck rune?"
  2443. [00:25] * [nfty]Sven goes over to grab a beetle eye or something.
  2444. [00:25] <[Kiri]Hans> I'll get it stalk then!
  2445. [00:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, I have no idea...
  2446. [00:25] * [Kiri]Hans walk over to its stalk.
  2447. [00:25] * [Pyg]Cerise turns to Teilya.
  2448. [00:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> What about you, Miss Teilya?
  2449. [00:26] <[PB]Teilya> I-I don't know...
  2450. [00:26] * [PB]Teilya looks around frantically. Any minutes now the survivors may find them, and worse, the bomb's going to go off soon...
  2451. [00:26] * [nfty]Sven gloats and tugs at a soot-covered antennae
  2452. [00:26] <[KC]Prero> You know, kabuzz, thees reminds me of a leetle sometheeng mi madre used to tell me, when I was only a small boy, kachunk whirr.
  2453. [00:26] * [Nom]Alexis fiddles a bit
  2454. [00:26] <[PB]Teilya> B-But...
  2455. [00:27] <[PB]Teilya> Maybe the Master will know!
  2456. [00:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Good idea!"
  2457. [00:27] * [Az]Maxwell hands Sven a knife to help with the antennae.
  2458. [00:27] * [PB]Teilya quickly pulls out a handheld satelitte phone.
  2459. [00:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey! Master Ludwig! We need to get back now and the runes are busted and the place is about to explode! Magic us please!"
  2460. [00:27] <[Kiri]Hans> Hahaha, pedro-bot. I like how you talk when you are in that metal armor.
  2461. [00:28] <[PB]Teilya> O-Oh yeah, no need for phones...
  2462. [00:28] <[GM]Ludwig> "The runes are busted?! What do you mean?"
  2463. [00:28] * [nfty]Sven takes it and cackles as he digs into the tough, rope-like strand in his hand
  2464. [00:28] <[Kiri]Hans> well, you talk kinda funny even before you're like that! HAHAHAHA!
  2465. [00:28] * [KC]Prero taps on his torso again--this time, the arm that pops out is clutching something like a laser spanner.
  2466. [00:28] <[Kiri]Hans> I don't know why but I feel so awesome today, man!
  2467. [00:28] <[PB]Teilya> T-There was this huge bug that cracked the cave entrance, Master!
  2468. [00:28] <[GM]Ludwig> "Never mind, I can still sense them! Hang on, I'm bringing you back!"
  2469. [00:28] <[GM]Ludwig> "Everybody hold tight!"
  2470. [00:29] <[KC]Prero> How I talk? I am not understanding the theeng you are saying, whirr babizzzzzz.
  2471. [00:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, that's strangely convenient. Thanks, master."
  2472. [00:29] * [PB]Teilya shuts her eyes tight, holding her hammer and the girl firmly.
  2473. [00:29] <[GM]Ludwig> The runes you can see being glowing, that familiar (to the maids, at least) pull...
  2474. [00:29] <[GM]Ludwig> [TO BE CONTINUED]
  2475. [00:29] * [KC]Prero uses the spanner to separate pieces of the bugs torso from, well, other pieces of the bug's torso
  2476. [00:30] <[Kiri]Hans> wheee~ trophy!
  2477. [00:30] <[GM]Ludwig> [FINALLY DONE]
  2478. [00:30] <[GM]Ludwig> [UNTIL NEXT FRIDAY OR SOMETHING]
  2479. [00:30] <[GM]Ludwig> [DO YOUR BEHIND THE SCENES FAGGOTRY IF YOU LIKE, WHATEVER]
  2480. [00:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Jesus Christ I need a drink
  2481. [00:30] <[PB]Teilya> OH FINALLY! THIS SHIT IS DISGUSTING!
  2482. [00:31] <[Kiri]Hans> Hahaha, 'sup?
  2483. [00:31] <[Kiri]Hans> Hey there, catgirl!
  2484. [00:31] * [Kiri]Hans shake Teilya's hand.
  2485. [00:31] <[PB]Teilya> Eh, I-oh hey there baby!
  2486. [00:31] <[Kiri]Hans> nice ta meetcha!
  2487. [00:31] <[nfty]Sven> Ahh! It is strange cat like person
  2488. [00:31] * [PB]Teilya shakes Hans' hand back.
  2489. [00:31] <[Kiri]Hans> let's have a round! my treat!
  2490. [00:31] <[PB]Teilya> Sure, and shut up Sven, scene's over.
  2491. [00:31] <[nfty]Sven> Nobody likes me. *sob*
  2492. [00:32] <[Kiri]Hans> Aw, c'mon man! You can come too!
  2493. [00:32] * [KC]Prero taps his torso. Out comes a hand clutching a margarita. There is a slice of lemon included.
  2494. [00:32] <[Gtz]Mary> NO THANKS. I'M FINE. I DIDN'T WANT A DRINK OR ANYTHING, BUT THANKS FOR THE OFFER.
  2495. [00:32] <[Kiri]Hans> NO YOU HAVE TO!
  2496. [00:33] <[PB]Teilya> OHOHO
  2497. [00:33] * [Kiri]Hans get Magarita from pedro and shove it into mary's throat.
  2498. [00:33] <[Kiri]Hans> DRINK, MAN. DRINNNNNNNNNNK!
  2499. [00:33] <[PB]Teilya> Uh, Hans, that's not a drink.
  2500. [00:33] <[Kiri]Hans> WAT!?
  2501. [00:34] <Ars> Uh, g-guys... No drinking on the set, please... The clean-up crew's on the way, so if you could go somewhere else...
  2502.  
  2503.  
  2504.  
  2505.  
  2506.  
  2507.  
  2508.  
  2509.  
  2510. @@---
  2511. @@=====
  2512. @@Session Four
  2513. @@=====
  2514. @@---
  2515.  
  2516. [2008-11-21 20:01:45] <[GM]Tetro> [Last time, a bunch of shit happened.]
  2517. [2008-11-21 20:02:58] <[GM]Tetro> [Everybody shows up back at the Fortress' Travel Room, mysterious new meido in tow.]
  2518. [2008-11-21 20:03:54] <[Pyg]Cerise> W-we're all here right?
  2519. [2008-11-21 20:04:18] * [GM]Ludwig opens the door slowly. He looks a little haggard.
  2520. [2008-11-21 20:04:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Ev... everyone's okay?
  2521. [2008-11-21 20:05:12] * [Pyg]Cerise nods in reply to her master.
  2522. [2008-11-21 20:05:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, fortunately.
  2523. [2008-11-21 20:09:15] <[PB]Teilya> We've got to the people in distress nya, but...I couldn't save the other...
  2524. [2008-11-21 20:09:45] * [PB]Teilya hangs her head low at that.
  2525. [2008-11-21 20:10:03] <[GM]Ludwig> What happened?
  2526. [2008-11-21 20:10:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> We found this person.
  2527. [2008-11-21 20:10:21] * [Gtz]Mary walks in, catching up with the commotion
  2528. [2008-11-21 20:10:41] * [Pyg]Cerise points to the girl carried by Teilya.
  2529. [2008-11-21 20:11:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, Mary!
  2530. [2008-11-21 20:12:18] <[GM]Ludwig> A girl...?
  2531. [2008-11-21 20:12:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Welcome back, Cerise. See, I knew everything would turn out all right.
  2532. [2008-11-21 20:12:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Was she unconscious when you found her?
  2533. [2008-11-21 20:12:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh! Is anyone hurt?
  2534. [2008-11-21 20:13:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Let's get everyone to the Medical Room, just in case.
  2535. [2008-11-21 20:14:18] * [Gtz]Mary stands aside to allow everyone to file out
  2536. [2008-11-21 20:14:53] <[GM]Ludwig> [Fast-forward to the Medical Room.]
  2537. [2008-11-21 20:15:03] <[Nom]Alexis> [and here I wanted to say something]
  2538. [2008-11-21 20:15:13] <[Gtz]Mary> [all the cool people are doing it]
  2539. [2008-11-21 20:15:18] <[GM]Ludwig> [Well, say it now, then.]
  2540. [2008-11-21 20:15:28] <[PB]Teilya> [Sleepy~]
  2541. [2008-11-21 20:15:59] * [Nom]Alexis stops as she passes Mary out the door
  2542. [2008-11-21 20:16:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, Mary, I don't know how you keep doing it. My respect for you has deepened."
  2543. [2008-11-21 20:16:50] * [Gtz]Mary looks perplexed
  2544. [2008-11-21 20:16:53] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh?
  2545. [2008-11-21 20:18:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, nevermind, just me being silly. Let's go, dearie."
  2546. [2008-11-21 20:18:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh. Umm... Okay.
  2547. [2008-11-21 20:19:27] <[GM]Ludwig> [Fast-forward to the Medical Room. For real, this time.]
  2548. [2008-11-21 20:19:57] * [GM]Ludwig helps Teilya lay the refugee on a bed.
  2549. [2008-11-21 20:22:31] * [Gtz]Mary whispers in Cerise's ear-
  2550. [2008-11-21 20:22:41] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 How is she? What happened?
  2551. [2008-11-21 20:23:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14She was where the distress beacon originated.
  2552. [2008-11-21 20:23:28] * [PB]Teilya smiles briefly at Ludwig as he helped to lower the girl on the bed, then walks off towards the drawers on the other side of the room to prepare the necessary medical equipments.
  2553. [2008-11-21 20:24:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "3:2 on her being a parasite who will awaken and devour us all."
  2554. [2008-11-21 20:24:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14There was one more there but....
  2555. [2008-11-21 20:25:36] * [Gtz]Mary 14 Oh... I see. Bless her heart..
  2556. [2008-11-21 20:26:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Don't be ridiculous, Alexis.
  2557. [2008-11-21 20:27:11] * [GM]Ludwig flips a switch on the side of the bed, and a scanner output appears on the wall above it.
  2558. [2008-11-21 20:27:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm just saying that if we're going to take in strangers found in tubes in bug infested tunnels we should be prepared to be consumed."
  2559. [2008-11-21 20:27:56] * [PB]Teilya returns with some basic medical gears, and a machine that seems too big to fit into a drawer.
  2560. [2008-11-21 20:27:57] <[GM]Ludwig> See? Hu... man.
  2561. [2008-11-21 20:28:36] <[PB]Teilya> I'm quite sure she's...uncontaminated...I think...
  2562. [2008-11-21 20:28:41] * [GM]Ludwig squints at the display, rubs his eyes, and squints again.
  2563. [2008-11-21 20:28:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh sure, you say that now, but don't say I wasn't being reasonable when man-eating hatchlings erupt from her stomach."
  2564. [2008-11-21 20:28:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Of course she was, she was in a test tube!
  2565. [2008-11-21 20:29:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Really now, Alexis...
  2566. [2008-11-21 20:29:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Test tube?
  2567. [2008-11-21 20:29:26] * [PB]Teilya blinks at Alexis.
  2568. [2008-11-21 20:29:46] <[GM]Ludwig> How'd you find this girl? Tell me exactly.
  2569. [2008-11-21 20:29:46] <[PB]Teilya> You watched too much Aliens, nya.
  2570. [2008-11-21 20:30:09] * [PB]Teilya turns back to Ludwig and nods.
  2571. [2008-11-21 20:30:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> I wish I knew more, Master, but the man we found there...He couldn't live long enough to tell us.
  2572. [2008-11-21 20:30:40] <[PB]Teilya> We're...inside the chamber where the signal beacon is...
  2573. [2008-11-21 20:30:59] <[PB]Teilya> And I...and I...I couldn't...couldn't...
  2574. [2008-11-21 20:31:26] * [PB]Teilya wipes away the tear that's forming.
  2575. [2008-11-21 20:31:27] <[GM]Ludwig> ...Teilya?
  2576. [2008-11-21 20:31:40] <[PB]Teilya> Nya, nothing to worry about...
  2577. [2008-11-21 20:31:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "What Teilya is trying to say is that there was some man hiding from a veritable bugs with a girl in a tube."
  2578. [2008-11-21 20:32:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, it looks like the man was responsible for sending out that distress signal.
  2579. [2008-11-21 20:32:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "And he, er, died. Whoops."
  2580. [2008-11-21 20:32:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah... I see.
  2581. [2008-11-21 20:33:01] <[PB]Teilya> I couldn't...save him...but at least we've...saved the girl....
  2582. [2008-11-21 20:33:26] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( An orphan of the War, huh... I remember how it was... )
  2583. [2008-11-21 20:33:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya...He probably knew he wouldn't make it once he called for help.
  2584. [2008-11-21 20:33:40] * [GM]Ludwig glances back at the medical display, shakes his head and focuses his attention on the girl.
  2585. [2008-11-21 20:33:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "I don't know why they were swarming like that though. I still think it's suspicious, but who am I to judge?"
  2586. [2008-11-21 20:33:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> We probably wouldn't have been able to do anything either way.
  2587. [2008-11-21 20:34:02] <[GM]Ludwig> And she was in a... test tube?
  2588. [2008-11-21 20:34:06] * [PB]Teilya still looks downtrodden
  2589. [2008-11-21 20:34:14] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, it was a large test tube."
  2590. [2008-11-21 20:34:16] * [Pyg]Cerise smiles reassuringly at Teilya.
  2591. [2008-11-21 20:34:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, so more a sort of chamber?
  2592. [2008-11-21 20:34:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Glass, probably?
  2593. [2008-11-21 20:34:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> She must have been involved in an experiment of some sort.
  2594. [2008-11-21 20:34:52] <[PB]Teilya> But it still doesn't mean I...it doesn't mean I could just...leave him to his death...
  2595. [2008-11-21 20:34:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Er, yeah. And it was a tube."
  2596. [2008-11-21 20:35:20] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, you didn't leave anybody to their deaths.
  2597. [2008-11-21 20:35:30] <[PB]Teilya> But..but...
  2598. [2008-11-21 20:35:53] <[PB]Teilya> I could've...at least...bring his body back and...give him a proper burial...
  2599. [2008-11-21 20:36:14] * [Gtz]Mary finds Teilya's hand, and takes it into her own
  2600. [2008-11-21 20:36:19] <[PB]Teilya> And yet...all I did was to just...leave him there...to be eaten...
  2601. [2008-11-21 20:36:48] <[Gtz]Mary> Teilya, you did everything you could. You saved this girl and managed to make it back safe, that's all that matters right now.
  2602. [2008-11-21 20:36:49] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  2603. [2008-11-21 20:37:33] * [Pyg]Cerise also walks up to Teilya, rubbing her arm in an effort to comfort the downtrodden maid.
  2604. [2008-11-21 20:37:38] <[Nom]Alexis> [monotones] "I'm sure he's in a better place now and he's watching his tube-girl from above and full of peace and comfort--"
  2605. [2008-11-21 20:37:39] * [PB]Teilya tries to look happier, but only managed a weak smile before that falls and she slips back into brooding.
  2606. [2008-11-21 20:38:37] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis.
  2607. [2008-11-21 20:38:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "--and even though his broken body has been blown into smithereens he is still content that his--what?"
  2608. [2008-11-21 20:38:56] * [GM]Ludwig gives the maid a warning look.
  2609. [2008-11-21 20:38:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Just don't.
  2610. [2008-11-21 20:39:27] * [Nom]Alexis rolls her eyes
  2611. [2008-11-21 20:39:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "How did you expect this to turn out, master?"
  2612. [2008-11-21 20:40:03] <[PB]Teilya> Blown in smithe-...oh yeah...and I also blew the place up and burned his remains to crisp along with those...those...bugs...
  2613. [2008-11-21 20:40:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Wh... what's that?!
  2614. [2008-11-21 20:41:26] <[PB]Teilya> I'm...I'm...I'm sorry...I...
  2615. [2008-11-21 20:41:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Apparently it's more thrilling if we had to escape to a countdown."
  2616. [2008-11-21 20:42:10] * [Gtz]Mary sometimes wishes she were deaf as well
  2617. [2008-11-21 20:42:41] * [PB]Teilya just looks away.
  2618. [2008-11-21 20:43:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> We had no choice, Miss Teilya. We wouldn't have made it out alive if those bugs were in our way.
  2619. [2008-11-21 20:44:08] * [PB]Teilya smiles weakly, but shakes her head.
  2620. [2008-11-21 20:44:22] <[PB]Teilya> Thanks, Cerise...but it still doesn't mean...
  2621. [2008-11-21 20:44:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> No! It means we're alive!
  2622. [2008-11-21 20:44:55] * [Pyg]Cerise tries her best to look stern at the catgirl maid.
  2623. [2008-11-21 20:45:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "On the other hand, we slaughtered a large contingent of demon insects. Go us."
  2624. [2008-11-21 20:45:24] <[PB]Teilya> And others dead...like...like Alexis said...we kill to get our way...
  2625. [2008-11-21 20:45:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> There are things we have to do even if we don't want to.
  2626. [2008-11-21 20:45:40] <[PB]Teilya> I...I don't like it...
  2627. [2008-11-21 20:46:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> That's how it is now. Look at how we've been living all this time!
  2628. [2008-11-21 20:46:07] <[GM]Ludwig> I wish we had a choice, too, but...
  2629. [2008-11-21 20:46:30] * [PB]Teilya begins to chuckle softly, choking back a sob.
  2630. [2008-11-21 20:46:51] * [Pyg]Cerise unable to hold back anymore, she slaps Teilya in the cheek.
  2631. [2008-11-21 20:46:58] <[PB]Teilya> It feels so nice...to push a button when we're back in the castle an-!
  2632. [2008-11-21 20:48:08] * [PB]Teilya stopped talking at once, not moving at all.
  2633. [2008-11-21 20:48:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya, as much as I dislike it. We're trying to survive here.
  2634. [2008-11-21 20:48:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> And to do that we have to do things that seem cruel.
  2635. [2008-11-21 20:48:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> If you think about it, those insects out there are as alive as we are.
  2636. [2008-11-21 20:48:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, just let her cut."
  2637. [2008-11-21 20:49:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> And they must die just so we can wake up to see another sun rise.
  2638. [2008-11-21 20:50:05] * [Gtz]Mary sits back and lets Cerise do the talking.
  2639. [2008-11-21 20:50:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> That's the kind of world we're in now.
  2640. [2008-11-21 20:50:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "They're tyrannical demon bugs out to enslave the world. Do you want us to send the Demon King a bouquet?"
  2641. [2008-11-21 20:51:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> We may not have saved a man, but at least we're fulfilling his last request.
  2642. [2008-11-21 20:51:14] * [Pyg]Cerise points at the unconscious girl.
  2643. [2008-11-21 20:51:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> She's alive because of you!
  2644. [2008-11-21 20:52:00] <[Gtz]Mary> It's true, we're living in a time of trial. But through tribulation, we build perseverance, and through perseverance, character, and with character, hope.
  2645. [2008-11-21 20:52:13] * [Nom]Alexis golf claps
  2646. [2008-11-21 20:52:20] * [Pyg]Cerise falls silent, feeling a little regret at lashing out at Teilya.
  2647. [2008-11-21 20:53:36] * [GM]Ludwig grabs Alexis by the hand and pulls her outside the room without a word.
  2648. [2008-11-21 20:54:03] * [PB]Teilya stayed silent through all this.
  2649. [2008-11-21 20:54:10] * [Gtz]Mary kind of forgot those two were in the room. Maybe we should check on that girl...
  2650. [2008-11-21 20:54:38] * [GM]Ludwig takes Alexis down the hall a few feet and pushes her against the wall.
  2651. [2008-11-21 20:54:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Look. I'm sorry I had to make you do what you did.
  2652. [2008-11-21 20:55:18] <[GM]Ludwig> But, damn it all, Teilya's feeling bad enough as it is.
  2653. [2008-11-21 20:55:38] <[GM]Ludwig> I will not stand for you taking it out on her.
  2654. [2008-11-21 20:56:29] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  2655. [2008-11-21 21:00:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, you have to understand. You made us--me kill again. That choice is yours by right. Those of us who have the choice have to appreciate what they have done. Including Teilya."
  2656. [2008-11-21 21:00:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "We killed them. We slaughtered them. We quenched the fires of hell with their blood. At least look happy about it."
  2657. [2008-11-21 21:01:02] * [Nom]Alexis is not making eye contact anymore
  2658. [2008-11-21 21:01:08] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Excuse me, master."
  2659. [2008-11-21 21:01:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Look happy, you say...
  2660. [2008-11-21 21:02:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Any plans to practice what you preach?
  2661. [2008-11-21 21:02:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Happy, master? I always look happy, master."
  2662. [2008-11-21 21:03:43] <[GM]Ludwig> If I could reach your face, I'd slap it for lying.
  2663. [2008-11-21 21:04:26] <[GM]Ludwig> I know how much you hate... letting yourself out.
  2664. [2008-11-21 21:07:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh no, master, do not misunderstand. We kill at your word--that is how it should be. If you wish to fight, we shall be your blade, as we were for those who came before you."
  2665. [2008-11-21 21:07:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "But you don't have to."
  2666. [2008-11-21 21:08:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "You really don't. You don't have to fight; you don't have to help anyone, you don't have to struggle, you don't have to reach out for other. You can just stay here. That will work too."
  2667. [2008-11-21 21:08:52] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, kneel down.
  2668. [2008-11-21 21:09:08] * [Nom]Alexis kneels almost reflexively
  2669. [2008-11-21 21:10:27] * [GM]Ludwig 's face distorts with anger as his hand flies across Alexis' cheek with a loud crack. He seethes for a second before impulsively sending it back the other way.
  2670. [2008-11-21 21:11:00] * [Nom]Alexis takes it without a word
  2671. [2008-11-21 21:11:04] <[GM]Ludwig> I... must. It cannot be any other way.
  2672. [2008-11-21 21:11:15] <[Gtz]Mary> You can't beat yourself up over this kind of stuff, Teilya. If you do, you'll just start to hate yourself and everything, everyone, you still have. And even though you're surrounded by those who care about you, you feel alone, and afraid. I felt like that once... Just don't make the same mistake I did. Be glad you did what you could for today, because you- ... what was that?
  2673. [2008-11-21 21:11:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Do not ever question that again.
  2674. [2008-11-21 21:11:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "...that hurts in more ways than you can ever know, master."
  2675. [2008-11-21 21:13:13] <[GM]Ludwig> ...
  2676. [2008-11-21 21:13:27] * [GM]Ludwig calms down gradually.
  2677. [2008-11-21 21:13:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Do you understand?
  2678. [2008-11-21 21:13:48] * [Gtz]Mary leaves Teilya to Cerise, and steps out the door
  2679. [2008-11-21 21:14:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "One last word then, master, if you will allow. Your father said the same thing, too, before the end. I understand all too well."
  2680. [2008-11-21 21:14:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Hello? Is everything okay?
  2681. [2008-11-21 21:14:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "--Oh yes, Mary, I was just having a chat about the mission with Master Ludwig, here."
  2682. [2008-11-21 21:14:58] * [Nom]Alexis stands up without a fuss
  2683. [2008-11-21 21:15:39] * [GM]Ludwig looks away from Alexis and Mary for a long moment before turning back to the room.
  2684. [2008-11-21 21:15:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Everything's fine, Mary.
  2685. [2008-11-21 21:16:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Well... if you say so.
  2686. [2008-11-21 21:16:32] * [GM]Ludwig heads back inside
  2687. [2008-11-21 21:16:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, we figured it'll be fastest and most informative if we just wake up our little refugee now. Let's go pump her full of stimulants."
  2688. [2008-11-21 21:16:53] * [Nom]Alexis follows the master dutifully
  2689. [2008-11-21 21:17:04] * [Gtz]Mary follows back into the med room, ignoring Alexis's crap
  2690. [2008-11-21 21:17:19] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't suppose we have a name for her.
  2691. [2008-11-21 21:17:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hopefully tell us when she's actually conscious."
  2692. [2008-11-21 21:19:41] * [Nom]Alexis starts prodding the sleeper inquisitively
  2693. [2008-11-21 21:20:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, someone help me out."
  2694. [2008-11-21 21:20:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...What if she has an "on" switch or something?
  2695. [2008-11-21 21:20:53] * [Kly]Sam continues to be unresponsive
  2696. [2008-11-21 21:21:19] <[GM]Ludwig> No, the scan didn't pick up any mechanical parts...
  2697. [2008-11-21 21:21:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh.
  2698. [2008-11-21 21:21:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm...
  2699. [2008-11-21 21:22:05] * [Nom]Alexis pulls out the defribulators
  2700. [2008-11-21 21:22:08] <[GM]Ludwig> But, that chamber, it could be she's some sort of biological construct. A clone, or something.
  2701. [2008-11-21 21:22:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ready when you are."
  2702. [2008-11-21 21:22:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Alexis...Th-that's a little too much.
  2703. [2008-11-21 21:22:54] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, put that thing away. She's just sleeping, she'll wake up when she's ready.
  2704. [2008-11-21 21:23:38] <[Kly]Sam> Mmm...
  2705. [2008-11-21 21:24:13] * [Kly]Sam opens her eyes slowly, taking time to look around the room a bit
  2706. [2008-11-21 21:24:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, a response."
  2707. [2008-11-21 21:24:38] * [Nom]Alexis looks a bit dejected as she puts away her ten thousand volts
  2708. [2008-11-21 21:24:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm? Oh!
  2709. [2008-11-21 21:25:07] * [GM]Ludwig moves up next to the bed.
  2710. [2008-11-21 21:25:15] <[GM]Ludwig> It's all right, you're safe.
  2711. [2008-11-21 21:25:25] * [Kly]Sam blinks a few times
  2712. [2008-11-21 21:25:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Teilya? Teilya, are you there? She's waking up...
  2713. [2008-11-21 21:25:42] <[Kly]Sam> ...what? Where is...
  2714. [2008-11-21 21:25:55] <[GM]Ludwig> You're in Beetleoven Fortress.
  2715. [2008-11-21 21:26:08] <[GM]Ludwig> I am Ludwig Beetleoven, its master.
  2716. [2008-11-21 21:26:24] * [PB]Teilya stayed silent and unmoving, it's unclear if she heard Mary or not.
  2717. [2008-11-21 21:26:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> You were at the source of a distress beacon so we were sent to investigate.
  2718. [2008-11-21 21:27:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "Actually, you were floating in a tube, so we're deathly curious."
  2719. [2008-11-21 21:27:33] * [GM]Ludwig blinks and stares. "Y... your eyes..."
  2720. [2008-11-21 21:28:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "...have closed again. Come on, girl, wake up"
  2721. [2008-11-21 21:28:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh? What's wrong?
  2722. [2008-11-21 21:28:39] <[Kly]Sam> A-ah, sorry. This is... overwhelming.
  2723. [2008-11-21 21:28:45] * [Kly]Sam frowns
  2724. [2008-11-21 21:29:05] <[Kly]Sam> But, I...
  2725. [2008-11-21 21:29:47] * [Kly]Sam sighs
  2726. [2008-11-21 21:30:03] <[Kly]Sam> I can't remember...
  2727. [2008-11-21 21:30:08] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...What's your name? Surely you know that, right?
  2728. [2008-11-21 21:30:47] * [Kly]Sam furrows her brows, thinking for a few seconds
  2729. [2008-11-21 21:31:33] <[Kly]Sam> S... Sam. Isn't it? Yes, that's it...
  2730. [2008-11-21 21:32:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Sam?
  2731. [2008-11-21 21:32:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sam...Sam...how awfully generic. Is that your given name? Do you have any others?"
  2732. [2008-11-21 21:32:30] <[Kly]Sam> But, that's all I can remember...
  2733. [2008-11-21 21:32:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Same as before...
  2734. [2008-11-21 21:33:08] * [Kly]Sam frowns
  2735. [2008-11-21 21:33:10] <[Kly]Sam> I really don't know...
  2736. [2008-11-21 21:34:00] * [Nom]Alexis raises a pair of fingers, and mouths silently from behind Ludwig
  2737. [2008-11-21 21:34:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "How many fingers am I holding up?"
  2738. [2008-11-21 21:34:59] <[Kly]Sam> Two?
  2739. [2008-11-21 21:36:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, let's introduce ourselves, shall we?
  2740. [2008-11-21 21:36:07] * [Nom]Alexis silently applauds
  2741. [2008-11-21 21:36:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, then...maid squad, assemble!"
  2742. [2008-11-21 21:37:05] <[Gtz]Mary> My name is Mary. This here is my friend Cerise, and the one you just spoke to is called Alexis. These two and miss Teilya behind me are the ones who saved you.
  2743. [2008-11-21 21:37:56] * [Pyg]Cerise nods as Mary introduces her to the new girl.
  2744. [2008-11-21 21:38:57] * [PB]Teilya is still unresponsive
  2745. [2008-11-21 21:39:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't worry about the cat, it's a bad time for her."
  2746. [2008-11-21 21:39:21] <[Kly]Sam> Saved me? Thank you, but... from what? I don't understand...
  2747. [2008-11-21 21:39:21] <[GM]Ludwig> You're wearing a uniform, so I presume you're a maid?
  2748. [2008-11-21 21:39:44] * [Gtz]Mary recalls the state Teilya was in earlier. . o O ( I haven't heard her say anything for a while now... )
  2749. [2008-11-21 21:39:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "What a strange coincidence."
  2750. [2008-11-21 21:40:31] * [Pyg]Cerise walks over to Teilya, taking her hand and looking at her with apologetic eyes.
  2751. [2008-11-21 21:40:46] <[Pyg]Cerise> Come on and say hi, Miss Teilya!
  2752. [2008-11-21 21:40:51] <[Kly]Sam> I don't remember anything. I'm sorry...
  2753. [2008-11-21 21:41:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... hmm, where to begin...
  2754. [2008-11-21 21:41:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "The world has ended."
  2755. [2008-11-21 21:41:43] <[GM]Ludwig> ...a little blunt, but yes, a good starting point.
  2756. [2008-11-21 21:42:06] <[GM]Ludwig> You do know about the Beetle invasion?
  2757. [2008-11-21 21:43:19] * [PB]Teilya flinched a bit and took a small step backwards when Cerise touched her, but otherwise no other response came out from her.
  2758. [2008-11-21 21:43:20] * [Kly]Sam sighs
  2759. [2008-11-21 21:43:33] * [Gtz]Mary whispers to Ludwig
  2760. [2008-11-21 21:44:36] <[Kly]Sam> No, I...
  2761. [2008-11-21 21:44:38] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Sir, I think all this might be too much for her all at once. Maybe we should take it slowly and talk it over dinner or something? It doesn't feel good to just interrogate her like this.
  2762. [2008-11-21 21:45:13] * [GM]Ludwig nods
  2763. [2008-11-21 21:45:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, are you hungry? Sam?
  2764. [2008-11-21 21:46:03] * [Kly]Sam nods
  2765. [2008-11-21 21:46:04] * [Gtz]Mary finds Cerise's shoulder and leans in to whisper once again:
  2766. [2008-11-21 21:46:26] * [Nom]Alexis whips out a notepad
  2767. [2008-11-21 21:46:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Subject...eats...food. Good start."
  2768. [2008-11-21 21:48:03] * [Kly]Sam looks down
  2769. [2008-11-21 21:48:10] * [GM]Ludwig offers Sam his hand to help her down from the bed.
  2770. [2008-11-21 21:48:30] * [Pyg]Cerise relishes the feeling of Mary's touch.
  2771. [2008-11-21 21:48:38] <[Kly]Sam> A-ah, thank you...
  2772. [2008-11-21 21:48:42] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Cerise, can you do me a favor? I want you to keep a close eye on this girl. talk to her, make sure she's eating her meals, and make sure you help her if she needs anything.
  2773. [2008-11-21 21:48:47] * [Kly]Sam takes then hand, but sheepishly
  2774. [2008-11-21 21:48:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Come on, then, we'll talk more over dinner.
  2775. [2008-11-21 21:49:52] * [Kly]Sam nods
  2776. [2008-11-21 21:51:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14I'll try.
  2777. [2008-11-21 21:51:33] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Thanks.
  2778. [2008-11-21 21:57:58] * [GM]Ludwig checks the time on a wall clock
  2779. [2008-11-21 21:58:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh, still early, though... well, that should give everyone time to freshen up beforehand.
  2780. [2008-11-21 21:59:32] * [GM]Ludwig leads Sam to Teilya and transfers the former's hand into the latter's.
  2781. [2008-11-21 21:59:35] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya?
  2782. [2008-11-21 21:59:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll have dinner done when you're out. Don't take too long~"
  2783. [2008-11-21 22:01:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, please show Sam the way to the baths.
  2784. [2008-11-21 22:03:12] * [Kly]Sam lets out a sigh of relief
  2785. [2008-11-21 22:03:13] <[Kly]Sam> Bath's'? Oh, it... should be fine, then...
  2786.  
  2787.  
  2788.  
  2789.  
  2790.  
  2791.  
  2792.  
  2793.  
  2794. @@---
  2795. @@=====
  2796. @@Session Five
  2797. @@=====
  2798. @@---
  2799.  
  2800. [2008-11-28 21:21:14] <[Nom]Alexis> [Meanwhile, thousands of miles away...]
  2801. [2008-11-28 21:21:32] <[Gtz]Mary> Australia explodes. The end.
  2802. [2008-11-28 21:22:07] <[Gtz]Mary> [not really, it's all okay, even Melbourne]
  2803. [2008-11-28 21:22:30] <[PB]Teilya> [&#3232;_&#3232;]
  2804. [2008-11-28 21:22:42] <[Nom]Alexis> [You should be happy]
  2805. [2008-11-28 21:22:59] <[PB]Teilya> [Perhaps]
  2806. [2008-11-28 21:24:00] <[Nom]Alexis> [Ok, fine. Melbourne is overrun by zombies.]
  2807. [2008-11-28 21:24:33] <[Gtz]Mary> [I actually don't know a damn thing about Melbourne other than it exists, and in Australia]
  2808. [2008-11-28 21:25:11] <[Nom]Alexis> [That's all you'll ever need to know about Melbourne]
  2809. [2008-11-28 21:25:41] <[GM]Tetro> [Harrumph.]
  2810. [2008-11-28 21:26:11] <[PB]Teilya> [Well, at least you know the name of the place I lived in]
  2811. [2008-11-28 21:29:14] <[GM]Tetro> [Last we left...]
  2812. [2008-11-28 21:30:16] <[GM]Tetro> [The maids returned with the mysterious girl, "Sam", in tow. She woke up, but remembers nothing.]
  2813. [2008-11-28 21:33:00] <[GM]Tetro> [Mini-wall incoming. Hopefully, I won't get kicked for flooding.]
  2814. [2008-11-28 21:33:04] <[GM]Tetro> [20:48] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Cerise, can you do me a favor? I want you to keep a close eye on this girl. talk to her, make sure she's eating her meals, and make sure you help her if she needs anything.
  2815. [2008-11-28 21:33:05] <[GM]Tetro> [20:48] * [Kly]Sam takes then hand, but sheepishly
  2816. [2008-11-28 21:33:05] <[GM]Tetro> [20:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Come on, then, we'll talk more over dinner.
  2817. [2008-11-28 21:33:05] <[GM]Tetro> [20:49] * [Kly]Sam nods
  2818. [2008-11-28 21:33:05] <[GM]Tetro> [20:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14I'll try.
  2819. [2008-11-28 21:33:06] <[GM]Tetro> [20:51] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Thanks.
  2820. [2008-11-28 21:33:06] <[GM]Tetro> [20:51] * Ataisai has quit IRC (Killed (NickServ (GHOST command used by Atai)))
  2821. [2008-11-28 21:33:08] <[GM]Tetro> [20:52] * Atai is now known as Ataisai
  2822. [2008-11-28 21:33:08] <[GM]Tetro> [20:57] * [GM]Ludwig checks the time on a wall clock
  2823. [2008-11-28 21:33:10] <[GM]Tetro> [20:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh, still early, though... well, that should give everyone time to freshen up beforehand.
  2824. [2008-11-28 21:33:11] <[GM]Tetro> [20:59] * [GM]Ludwig leads Sam to Teilya and transfers the former's hand into the latter's.
  2825. [2008-11-28 21:33:12] <[GM]Tetro> [20:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya?
  2826. [2008-11-28 21:33:12] <[GM]Tetro> [20:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll have dinner done when you're out. Don't take too long~"
  2827. [2008-11-28 21:33:14] <[GM]Tetro> [21:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, please show Sam the way to the baths.
  2828. [2008-11-28 21:33:14] <[GM]Tetro> [21:03] * [Kly]Sam lets out a sigh of relief
  2829. [2008-11-28 21:33:16] <[GM]Tetro> [21:03] <[Kly]Sam> Bath's'? Oh, it... should be fine, then...
  2830. [2008-11-28 21:34:01] <[GM]Tetro> [So, yeah, that's where we left off.]
  2831. [2008-11-28 21:34:17] <[GM]Tetro> [Bath time, I suppose. Keep it clean.]
  2832. [2008-11-28 21:34:28] <[GM]Tetro> [Get it? Clean? Bath? Hurf durf.]
  2833. [2008-11-28 21:35:24] <[Gtz]Mary> [MISSION START]
  2834. [2008-11-28 21:38:43] <[GM]Tetro> [ACTION]
  2835. [2008-11-28 21:38:48] * [Gtz]Mary pulls Cerise close, saying in her ear...
  2836. [2008-11-28 21:38:52] <[Gtz]Mary> 14 Psst. Cerise. I got an idea.
  2837. [2008-11-28 21:38:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hm?
  2838. [2008-11-28 21:39:21] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Let's see if dunking Teilya again could get her to snap out of it.
  2839. [2008-11-28 21:39:54] <[Gtz]Mary> 14It's not a very nice thing to do, but...
  2840. [2008-11-28 21:40:03] * [Pyg]Cerise nods. Yeah, that might get her out of her little funk.
  2841. [2008-11-28 21:40:18] * [PB]Teilya stirred slightly as Ludwig called her, she looked up, turned her gaze lifelessly towards Sam, and looks back down, silent.
  2842. [2008-11-28 21:41:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14Okay.
  2843. [2008-11-28 21:43:38] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Alright, good. Come on now, let's go.
  2844. [2008-11-28 21:45:40] * [Kly]Sam continues walking, head down and oblivious to most of this
  2845. [2008-11-28 21:47:49] <[Nom]Alexis> [And in the kitchen, an epic battle was being waged between a Alexis, Chef of Destiny, and a particularly tough piece of steak]
  2846. [2008-11-28 21:50:39] * [Pyg]Cerise arrives at the doors to the fortress's bath, opening the door and stepping inside.
  2847. [2008-11-28 21:50:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Door's open, Mary.
  2848. [2008-11-28 21:51:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Cerise, could you go find a change of clothes for us and Sam?
  2849. [2008-11-28 21:51:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> Right.
  2850. [2008-11-28 21:52:23] * [Pyg]Cerise steps back out of the bath to get the change of clothes but notices Teilya milling about in the hallway.
  2851. [2008-11-28 21:52:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya, come on, let's bathe together!
  2852. [2008-11-28 21:53:24] * [Pyg]Cerise grabs Teilya's hand and gently tugs at it.
  2853. [2008-11-28 21:53:59] * [PB]Teilya looks at Cerise emptily.
  2854. [2008-11-28 21:54:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> You'll feel alot better, I promise! Come on!
  2855. [2008-11-28 21:55:09] * [Pyg]Cerise starts pulling a little harder, hoping to get Teilya's feet moving.
  2856. [2008-11-28 21:56:13] * [Kly]Sam also begins puling slightly, Teilya's hand still in her own
  2857. [2008-11-28 21:56:51] * [PB]Teilya , by the combined force of two maids, begin to trudge slowly towards her do-the bath
  2858. [2008-11-28 21:56:59] <[Kly]Sam> ...she's right. I can't remember actually having one, but baths are wonderful.
  2859. [2008-11-28 21:57:02] * [Kly]Sam smiles
  2860. [2008-11-28 21:57:32] * [Gtz]Mary not looking in any particular direction, waits at the door and says to Sam:
  2861. [2008-11-28 21:57:37] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I forgot you were here. I'm sorry. Please, try to make yourself comfortable. We have a rather large bath, but if you're shy you can use the smaller one and draw a curtain if you so like.
  2862. [2008-11-28 21:58:47] * [Kly]Sam 's face shows visible relief
  2863. [2008-11-28 21:58:53] <[Kly]Sam> A-ah, thank you...
  2864. [2008-11-28 21:59:13] * [Gtz]Mary puts on a smile. The robbed who smiles steals something from the thief~
  2865. [2008-11-28 21:59:55] * [Pyg]Cerise , with the new girl's help, finally bring Teilya through the threshhold.
  2866. [2008-11-28 22:00:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, I'll go get the clothes now.
  2867. [2008-11-28 22:00:36] <[Gtz]Mary> Thank you, Cerise. We'll get the water ready for you.
  2868. [2008-11-28 22:01:26] * [Pyg]Cerise releases her hold on Teilya and steps back out of the bathroom to fetch their change of clothes.
  2869. [2008-11-28 22:02:38] * [Gtz]Mary follows the wall leading to the large bathtub starts filling the tub with hot water, testing its warmth with her hand from time to time
  2870. [2008-11-28 22:05:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Sam, could you fill that small tub with cold water?
  2871. [2008-11-28 22:06:57] <[Kly]Sam> Cold... water? I guess, but... why?
  2872. [2008-11-28 22:07:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, you'll see. It'll only take a moment, then you can drain the water.
  2873. [2008-11-28 22:08:37] * [Kly]Sam obliges, turning the tap in one of the smaller tubs
  2874. [2008-11-28 22:09:30] * [Kly]Sam lets the water run for a bit, filling it to a reasonable level, and then shuts off the tap.
  2875. [2008-11-28 22:09:31] <[Kly]Sam> Like this?
  2876. [2008-11-28 22:10:00] * [Gtz]Mary judges from the sound of it, replies
  2877. [2008-11-28 22:10:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, that should be good. Thank you.
  2878. [2008-11-28 22:11:09] <[Kly]Sam> And I can use any of these baths for my own, right? I'm not... you know...
  2879. [2008-11-28 22:11:18] * [Pyg]Cerise returns, carrying a stack of fresh maid uniforms. She sets them down on a counter by the door.
  2880. [2008-11-28 22:11:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> Here I am!
  2881. [2008-11-28 22:11:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, it's fine. You can use that one if you want after we're done with it. Hey Cerise!
  2882. [2008-11-28 22:12:18] <[Gtz]Mary> All right. First thing's first.
  2883. [2008-11-28 22:13:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Teilya~ How are you feeling, ma'am?
  2884. [2008-11-28 22:13:35] * [PB]Teilya doesn't seem to notice Mary calling
  2885. [2008-11-28 22:15:21] * [Pyg]Cerise waves her hand in front of Teilya's face.
  2886. [2008-11-28 22:15:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya?
  2887. [2008-11-28 22:15:32] * [Gtz]Mary finds her way to the small tub filled with cold water, checks it, and calls out to Cerise...
  2888. [2008-11-28 22:15:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright, you know the drill. bring her over here, this time I'll get her legs.
  2889. [2008-11-28 22:16:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> Alright.
  2890. [2008-11-28 22:16:58] * [Kly]Sam looks on in confusion
  2891. [2008-11-28 22:17:01] <[Gtz]Mary> This tub's kinda small, so we'll just hold her over it and drop on three.
  2892. [2008-11-28 22:17:23] * [Pyg]Cerise gets behind Teilya and grabs her under her arms.
  2893. [2008-11-28 22:18:37] * [Gtz]Mary just stands there, unable to tell who or what is in front of her
  2894. [2008-11-28 22:20:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Ummm... Is she there?
  2895. [2008-11-28 22:21:27] * [Pyg]Cerise drags Teilya over by the small tub.
  2896. [2008-11-28 22:21:30] * [Kly]Sam steps out of the way and tries not to watch after she realizes what's going on
  2897. [2008-11-28 22:21:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> Here she is.
  2898. [2008-11-28 22:22:23] * [Gtz]Mary feels forward, coming in contact with something soft before reaching lower and behind Teilya's legs
  2899. [2008-11-28 22:23:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah- well, here we go. Hmph!
  2900. [2008-11-28 22:23:29] * [Gtz]Mary lifts Teilya off the ground with Cerise's help, and sidles her above the chilled tub
  2901. [2008-11-28 22:23:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Ready?
  2902. [2008-11-28 22:23:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yeah.
  2903. [2008-11-28 22:23:58] <[Gtz]Mary> One...two...Three!
  2904. [2008-11-28 22:24:05] <[Nom]Alexis> [Meanwhile...]
  2905. [2008-11-28 22:24:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh ho, steak, you have survived to this day in the back of the fridge, stringy and inedible, but I�m afraid your time is up! Master Ludwig may not be able to cook a steak even if it tapdanced on the grill and garnished itself, but your opponent today is a maid! You and your unwholesome cardboard texture are no match for my ultimate culinary skills! HAVE AT THEE!"
  2906. [2008-11-28 22:24:28] <[Nom]Alexis> [The steak sets on fire]
  2907. [2008-11-28 22:24:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Whoops."
  2908. [2008-11-28 22:24:41] <[Nom]Alexis> [Back to the bath]
  2909. [2008-11-28 22:25:38] <[GM]Tetro> *BLOOSH*
  2910. [2008-11-28 22:26:36] <[PB]Teilya> HYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
  2911. [2008-11-28 22:26:46] <[PB]Teilya> COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD COLD
  2912. [2008-11-28 22:26:50] * [Gtz]Mary gets sprayed with water and lets loose a short shriek
  2913. [2008-11-28 22:27:15] <[PB]Teilya> 12COLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLDCOLD
  2914. [2008-11-28 22:28:05] * [Pyg]Cerise lets out a laugh as Teilya becomes lively once more
  2915. [2008-11-28 22:28:14] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( hahaha, maybe that was a little much. I should apologize later. )
  2916. [2008-11-28 22:29:07] <[Gtz]Mary> How do you feel now, Ma'am?
  2917. [2008-11-28 22:29:20] <[PB]Teilya> WHAAAA! GETMETOUT! GETMEOUT! ITSTOOCOLDNYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
  2918. [2008-11-28 22:29:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Hahaha, that's better. Cerise, let her out if you will.
  2919. [2008-11-28 22:30:06] * [Kly]Sam continues to avert her gaze, unsure if this is a common occurrence or not
  2920. [2008-11-28 22:30:15] * [Gtz]Mary reaches in the tub and pulls the plug, draining the water
  2921. [2008-11-28 22:30:26] * [Pyg]Cerise stiffles a laugh as she gets Teilya out of the bath.
  2922. [2008-11-28 22:30:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, okay, come on out.
  2923. [2008-11-28 22:30:55] * [PB]Teilya shivering all over, teeth clattering
  2924. [2008-11-28 22:31:16] <[PB]Teilya> C-C-Cold-d-d...
  2925. [2008-11-28 22:31:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> We should get you out of those clothes then.
  2926. [2008-11-28 22:33:35] * [PB]Teilya just blinks a few times to get the water out of her eyes, still shivering in her wet and now see through clothes
  2927. [2008-11-28 22:34:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Miss Teilya, I'm sorry for doing that to you, but if you keep on acting like that we'll do it every hour, if that's what it takes. So please, hold your head up and stay sharp! Us girls have to keep an eye out for one another, some of us an ear.
  2928. [2008-11-28 22:37:35] * [PB]Teilya glances at Mary and nods shakily, before remembering that she can't see.
  2929. [2008-11-28 22:38:16] <[PB]Teilya> O-O-Okay ok-kay, j-just don't t-throw me into c-cold water again...
  2930. [2008-11-28 22:40:34] * [Gtz]Mary Casts a broad smile, happy to hear the normal Teilya
  2931. [2008-11-28 22:40:49] <[Gtz]Mary> It's a deal! Come on, let's get clean.
  2932. [2008-11-28 22:42:28] * [Pyg]Cerise begins undressing, almost taking off the cross Mary gave her, but deciding against it and keeping it on.
  2933. [2008-11-28 22:42:40] * [Kly]Sam speaks up, still not exactly looking at this whole fiasco.
  2934. [2008-11-28 22:42:42] <[Kly]Sam> E-excuse me, but is there a... changing room?
  2935. [2008-11-28 22:43:30] * [Pyg]Cerise left in her underwear, she looks at Sam.
  2936. [2008-11-28 22:43:42] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm...Not really.
  2937. [2008-11-28 22:44:00] * [PB]Teilya was already down to her undergarments, feverishly trying to get the cold and wet material off her. Apparently she missed Sam's inquiry.
  2938. [2008-11-28 22:44:07] <[Kly]Sam> I... see.
  2939. [2008-11-28 22:44:12] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, sorry, are you uncomfortable?
  2940. [2008-11-28 22:44:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh! I'm sorry, you're so quiet that I forget you're there. You can use the screen there next to the tub if you wish.
  2941. [2008-11-28 22:46:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, I forgot that screen was still there. Haha!
  2942. [2008-11-28 22:47:23] * [Gtz]Mary finds her way back to the large tub slowly, and begins to remove her clothes
  2943. [2008-11-28 22:48:22] * [Pyg]Cerise resumes taking off whatever article of clothing is left on her.
  2944. [2008-11-28 22:48:34] * [Kly]Sam returns to the now-drained smaller bath, and fills it
  2945. [2008-11-28 22:48:42] * [PB]Teilya was already sitting on the side of the tub, clothes off and hands shielding her assets.
  2946. [2008-11-28 22:48:50] * [Gtz]Mary takes off the extra T-shirt and shorts she's been wearing that day, and is now completely naked
  2947. [2008-11-28 22:49:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Whew, I've been burning up all day wearing this under my dress. I like to stay light, you know?
  2948. [2008-11-28 22:50:43] * [Gtz]Mary slips right on in. "Aaaaah..."
  2949. [2008-11-28 22:51:11] * [PB]Teilya follows afterwards, sliding into the bath slowly.
  2950. [2008-11-28 22:51:20] <[PB]Teilya> Nyaaaaa~
  2951. [2008-11-28 22:51:25] <[PB]Teilya> So warm~
  2952. [2008-11-28 22:51:33] <[Gtz]Mary> There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them...
  2953. [2008-11-28 22:51:48] * [Kly]Sam ,having finished filling her bath, ducks behind the screen to get changed.
  2954. [2008-11-28 22:52:15] * [Pyg]Cerise gulps seeing both Mary and Teilya in the bathtub. Is it really okay to join them?
  2955. [2008-11-28 22:52:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm? Where'd Cerise go?
  2956. [2008-11-28 22:52:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...I'm still here, Mary.
  2957. [2008-11-28 22:53:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Well? Aren't you gonna join us?
  2958. [2008-11-28 22:53:09] * [Gtz]Mary makes space
  2959. [2008-11-28 22:53:35] <[PB]Teilya> Come on Cerise, get in~
  2960. [2008-11-28 22:53:38] * [Gtz]Mary and puts a smile on her face~
  2961. [2008-11-28 22:54:01] * [PB]Teilya also moves away a bit, leaving enough room for a person between her and Mary.
  2962. [2008-11-28 22:54:49] * [Pyg]Cerise fidgets a bit, then finally walks over, putting one leg in first. Ah, the water's nice indeed.
  2963. [2008-11-28 22:55:23] * [Pyg]Cerise then brings her other leg in as and settles next to the girls.
  2964. [2008-11-28 22:55:48] <[Nom]Alexis> [Interruption!]
  2965. [2008-11-28 22:56:04] <[Gtz]Mary> [go away]
  2966. [2008-11-28 22:56:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, round 2, steak! Even though you�re an unsightly charcoal lump, I shall not rest until I�ve turned you into a culinary masterpiece! This time, I am armed with the deadliest tools of the legendary Beetleoven kitchen, and when I am done with you there shall be nothing left but bones and perfectly seasoned main course beef!"
  2967. [2008-11-28 22:56:47] * [Nom]Alexis brandishes the tenderiser
  2968. [2008-11-28 22:57:04] <[Nom]Alexis> [The charcoal sets on fire]
  2969. [2008-11-28 22:57:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "Stop that!"
  2970. [2008-11-28 22:57:19] <[Nom]Alexis> [Yeah, ok, I'm done]
  2971. [2008-11-28 22:57:33] <[Gtz]Mary> [awesome~]
  2972. [2008-11-28 22:58:38] * [Kly]Sam ,forgetting to have grabbed a towel, instead covers herself with a wadded up version of her uniform and quickly makes her way over to the smaller bath. The clothes are then dropped and the bath entered with all possible swiftness.
  2973. [2008-11-28 23:01:16] * [Pyg]Cerise hesitates for a moment but decides to speak up...
  2974. [2008-11-28 23:01:41] * [PB]Teilya sighs in pleasure as the warm water envelopes her body, her tail swishing lazily out the water between her legs.
  2975. [2008-11-28 23:02:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> You think Miss Sam should join us?
  2976. [2008-11-28 23:02:12] * [Pyg]Cerise asks Mary and Teilya quietly.
  2977. [2008-11-28 23:02:33] <[Pyg]Cerise> She...looks lonely all by herself in such a small tub.
  2978. [2008-11-28 23:03:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, the poor dear seems to be bashful... A lot has happened to her in the last fifteen minutes.
  2979. [2008-11-28 23:04:20] <[PB]Teilya> Mm, why not ask if she wants to join us or not?
  2980. [2008-11-28 23:05:14] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, it couldn't hurt, I suppose. Just don't get your hopes up.
  2981. [2008-11-28 23:05:52] <[Gtz]Mary> Saaam? You must be lonely out there by yourself, would you like to join us?
  2982. [2008-11-28 23:06:15] * [Gtz]Mary tries to sound as warm as possible
  2983. [2008-11-28 23:07:30] * [Kly]Sam doesn't respond immediately, but then calls back after a few seconds
  2984. [2008-11-28 23:07:48] <[Kly]Sam> T-thank you very much, but I'm fine over here...
  2985. [2008-11-28 23:08:23] <[Gtz]Mary> You sure? Alright then, just wanted to ask.
  2986. [2008-11-28 23:08:25] * [Pyg]Cerise takes a sideways glance at Mary's naked form. Ah, she looks so soft.
  2987. [2008-11-28 23:08:53] * [Gtz]Mary slinks further into the water, trying to reach around Cerise with her foot...
  2988. [2008-11-28 23:10:06] * [PB]Teilya , meanwhile, just pouts and stands up, and make her way to Sam.
  2989. [2008-11-28 23:10:27] <[PB]Teilya> Come on~ We're going to be living together now~
  2990. [2008-11-28 23:10:48] * [Gtz]Mary pulls her leg back, aborting the mission
  2991. [2008-11-28 23:10:53] <[PB]Teilya> Come join us~
  2992. [2008-11-28 23:11:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Teilya, if the poor girl wants her space, leave it to her.
  2993. [2008-11-28 23:11:20] <[Kly]Sam> R-really, I'm fine...
  2994. [2008-11-28 23:12:03] <[PB]Teilya> B-B-But...master used to say that 'we should get acquainted with the ones you live with'...
  2995. [2008-11-28 23:12:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Ms. Vallence! Come on, now.
  2996. [2008-11-28 23:13:50] * [PB]Teilya swings around undecided, not sure if she should continue to try and get Sam to warm up to them or just get back into the bath.
  2997. [2008-11-28 23:14:49] <[Gtz]Mary> We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other during dinner. Come on now, the poor girl's had a startling day, let her deliberate for a moment.
  2998. [2008-11-28 23:15:07] * [Kly]Sam mumbles something incomprehensible
  2999. [2008-11-28 23:15:28] <[Kly]Sam> I'd... like a little time to think, is all.
  3000. [2008-11-28 23:15:45] <[Kly]Sam> I'm sorry.
  3001. [2008-11-28 23:16:25] * [PB]Teilya bites her lip softly, before turning around to face Sam, ruffling her hair a bit, muttering a soft 'I'm sorry' and return to the larger tub.
  3002. [2008-11-28 23:16:35] <[Nom]Alexis> [Last one, I swear]
  3003. [2008-11-28 23:16:43] * [Pyg]Cerise cups her hands and splashes her face.
  3004. [2008-11-28 23:16:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "So it�s come down to this. Just me and you. And you�re laughing. I know you�re laughing. You think you�ve won; you think I can�t possibly make something edible out of you now."
  3005. [2008-11-28 23:17:01] * [Nom]Alexis glares at the little pile of ash on the counter
  3006. [2008-11-28 23:17:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, the joke�s one you, steak, because I still have one final technique, guaranteed to make even make the fungus between the master�s toes into a delicious work of art!"
  3007. [2008-11-28 23:17:23] * [Nom]Alexis whips out her spice canisters
  3008. [2008-11-28 23:17:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ha! You ungrateful appetizer, WHAT SAY YOU?"
  3009. [2008-11-28 23:17:36] <[Nom]Alexis> [The spices set on fire]
  3010. [2008-11-28 23:17:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, now that's just weird."
  3011. [2008-11-28 23:18:19] <[Nom]Alexis> [You can have the camera back now]
  3012. [2008-11-28 23:18:21] <[Gtz]Mary> [Well done. pun not intended]
  3013. [2008-11-28 23:23:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey Cerise, how's that cut on your leg? Feeling better yet?
  3014. [2008-11-28 23:24:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...
  3015. [2008-11-28 23:27:23] * [Pyg]Cerise feels around her leg for the wound. Yeah, looks like it's still in the healing process. Still hurts a little too. She shudders remembering the sense of defeat she experienced the day she got them.
  3016. [2008-11-28 23:27:44] <[Gtz]Mary> You're not still wearing the same bandage as before, are you? You should redress it if it isn't clotted yet.
  3017. [2008-11-28 23:29:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah...um...Of course I did.
  3018. [2008-11-28 23:32:31] <[Gtz]Mary> *sigh* Well, just make sure you change it before going to bed, alright? It's bad to leave it like that, it could sully the wound and get infected.
  3019. [2008-11-28 23:33:17] <[Gtz]Mary> And how do you feel, Miss Teilya?
  3020. [2008-11-28 23:33:31] * [Pyg]Cerise smiles a little, happy about Mary's concern.
  3021. [2008-11-28 23:33:52] * [PB]Teilya looks up at Mary with a small but brilliant smile.
  3022. [2008-11-28 23:34:09] * [Gtz]Mary starts playing with Cerise's hair absentmindedly, curling the rings around her fingers and letting them loose
  3023. [2008-11-28 23:34:11] <[PB]Teilya> I'm alright, nya. Thanks for asking.
  3024. [2008-11-28 23:35:24] * [PB]Teilya brushes her tail against Cerise's thighs unintensionally, sighing in pleasure again as she bathe in the warm water.
  3025. [2008-11-28 23:36:58] * [Pyg]Cerise flinches a bit, feeling something brush against her thigh for a moment. What was that?
  3026. [2008-11-28 23:38:24] * [Gtz]Mary slinks lower and tries to hide a grin, moving her leg around Cerise until she finds her foot, and gives her a playful pinch on the calf
  3027. [2008-11-28 23:38:52] * [PB]Teilya , in her state of bliss provided by the bath, subconsciously wrapped her tail around Cerise's leg.
  3028. [2008-11-28 23:39:44] <[PB]Teilya> Nyaaah~ refreshing~
  3029. [2008-11-28 23:39:48] * [Pyg]Cerise lets out a little squeal at the sudden pinch.
  3030. [2008-11-28 23:39:54] * [Gtz]Mary pretends she isn't doing anything
  3031. [2008-11-28 23:40:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-hey! S-stop thaaaat!
  3032. [2008-11-28 23:40:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Stop whaaat~
  3033. [2008-11-28 23:41:15] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~?
  3034. [2008-11-28 23:41:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Who's grabbing my leg?
  3035. [2008-11-28 23:42:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Grabbing your leg? Who would do such a thing? Surely not Teilya nor I~ Perhaps there's a deviant minnow among us~
  3036. [2008-11-28 23:44:31] * [Gtz]Mary pinches her again, but from a different angle. The inner thigh!
  3037. [2008-11-28 23:45:09] * [PB]Teilya just siddles up against Cerise, her tail sliding up slowly.
  3038. [2008-11-28 23:45:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-hey that tickles...!
  3039. [2008-11-28 23:48:51] * [Pyg]Cerise tries to catch the culprit's arm in the act but instead grabs...a tail?
  3040. [2008-11-28 23:49:11] <[PB]Teilya> Kyah?!
  3041. [2008-11-28 23:49:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, there it goes again! The fish must really like you in these waters~
  3042. [2008-11-28 23:49:48] * [PB]Teilya quickly slides her tail out of Cerise's hands.
  3043. [2008-11-28 23:50:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary, you too?
  3044. [2008-11-28 23:51:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> Come on, you two, this is getting out of hand!
  3045. [2008-11-28 23:51:17] * [Gtz]Mary discreetly reaches her left leg behind Cerise to pinch.. Teilya! Literally toe-to-toe!
  3046. [2008-11-28 23:51:52] * [Gtz]Mary raises her hands above the water, trying as hard as she can to keep from smiling
  3047. [2008-11-28 23:52:43] <[PB]Teilya> Kyah?!
  3048. [2008-11-28 23:54:29] * [PB]Teilya jumps slightly as she felt something pinched her, instinctively directing her tail to the spot of contact.
  3049. [2008-11-28 23:55:20] * [Gtz]Mary retracts her foot to avoid detection, but was it quick enough-!?
  3050. [2008-11-28 23:57:39] * [PB]Teilya felt she had briefly came in contact with something, but was not quick enough to grasp onto it, only able to find the direction it came from and trying to trace it back to the source.
  3051. [2008-11-28 23:58:44] * [Gtz]Mary sensing she is now in the evasive stage, pulls her legs into an indian-rest and turns away from Cerise
  3052. [2008-11-28 23:58:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, could you get my back, please?
  3053. [2008-11-29 00:00:26] <[PB]Teilya> Wah? Who pinched me?
  3054. [2008-11-29 00:02:04] * [Pyg]Cerise sinks a little lower into the water, probably trying to hide her flushed face.
  3055. [2008-11-29 00:02:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm? Something the matter?
  3056. [2008-11-29 00:06:15] * [PB]Teilya 's tail, losing its target after a fruitless search, gives up and instead decides to make itself comfortable wrapping around Cerise's stomach.
  3057. [2008-11-29 00:06:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah...Oh, nothing, Mary.
  3058. [2008-11-29 00:07:32] * [Pyg]Cerise grabs the soap to get to washing Mary's back when she suddenly feels something wrap around her middle.
  3059. [2008-11-29 00:07:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah!
  3060. [2008-11-29 00:07:44] * [Pyg]Cerise ends up dropping the soap in the water.
  3061. [2008-11-29 00:08:14] * [Gtz]Mary feels for the soap and instead finds a leg
  3062. [2008-11-29 00:09:28] * [Gtz]Mary cancels the search for the soap, and instead draws her hand up Cerise's leg and squeezes her knee
  3063. [2008-11-29 00:10:50] * [Pyg]Cerise lets out a little moan. These two don't know when to quit.
  3064. [2008-11-29 00:12:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, miss Teilya! I don't know if you know, but Cerise here is quite ticklish, isn't that right~?
  3065. [2008-11-29 00:13:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Sh-shut up, Mary!
  3066. [2008-11-29 00:13:13] * [Pyg]Cerise pouts, puffing up her cheeks.
  3067. [2008-11-29 00:13:21] <[PB]Teilya> Nya-ha~
  3068. [2008-11-29 00:13:51] <[PB]Teilya> Cerise, tick-l-ish~
  3069. [2008-11-29 00:15:17] * [PB]Teilya 's tail slowly slides up alittle, down a little, up a little, down a little~
  3070. [2008-11-29 00:15:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> N-no! Haa...haha!
  3071. [2008-11-29 00:16:09] <[PB]Teilya> 15Soft~
  3072. [2008-11-29 00:16:19] * [Pyg]Cerise grabs Mary's shoulders, shaking them.
  3073. [2008-11-29 00:16:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> Why did you tell her, Marrrryyyyy...!
  3074. [2008-11-29 00:16:44] * [Gtz]Mary Runs her finger slowly across the bottom of Cerise's little foot
  3075. [2008-11-29 00:17:04] <[Gtz]Mary> ahaaaaahaha, just thought she'd like to know~
  3076. [2008-11-29 00:19:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> I s-said s-stop thaaaat...!
  3077. [2008-11-29 00:20:14] * [PB]Teilya pretends she didn't hear anything and continues with her tail brushing
  3078. [2008-11-29 00:21:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> M-Mary, you....ahaha...too...!
  3079. [2008-11-29 00:24:18] * [Gtz]Mary smiles broadly
  3080. [2008-11-29 00:24:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ahaha...Oh, th-that's it! You asked for it, Mary!
  3081. [2008-11-29 00:24:57] * [PB]Teilya had a smile similar to Mary's
  3082. [2008-11-29 00:25:44] * [Pyg]Cerise runs her fingers down under Mary's arms.
  3083. [2008-11-29 00:26:48] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh ho! No you don't! Teilya, together this time!
  3084. [2008-11-29 00:27:35] * [Gtz]Mary turns to give Cerise her full attention and tickles at full force
  3085. [2008-11-29 00:27:42] <[PB]Teilya> Gotchya~
  3086. [2008-11-29 00:27:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah! No!
  3087. [2008-11-29 00:28:06] * [PB]Teilya also begins to tickle Cerise with full power
  3088. [2008-11-29 00:28:42] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ahahahaha!! Sto-stop it! Heeheeheehahahahaha!!
  3089. [2008-11-29 00:28:59] <[PB]Teilya> No no no nya~
  3090. [2008-11-29 00:29:03] * [Pyg]Cerise is completely overwhelmed and has no power to fight back.
  3091. [2008-11-29 00:29:19] <[Gtz]Mary> hm hm hm~
  3092. [2008-11-29 00:29:54] * [Gtz]Mary satisfied with her victory, ends the assault and slinks back, putting her feet up on the side of the tub
  3093. [2008-11-29 00:30:01] <[Gtz]Mary> I just like to hear you laugh, Cerise. You're so grown up and responsible for your age, sometimes I fear that you skipped right into adulthood without having a chance to be a kid. But when I hear that laugh, I know everything's gonna be okay.
  3094. [2008-11-29 00:31:52] * [PB]Teilya , too, stops her tickling when Mary stops, smile in full blown
  3095. [2008-11-29 00:32:34] <[PB]Teilya> Sometimes you're just too uptight, Cerise. Relaxing and playing once in awhile is good for you~
  3096. [2008-11-29 00:33:46] * [Pyg]Cerise feeling defeated and blushing she sinks a little more into the water, with half her face still above the water.
  3097. [2008-11-29 00:36:06] * [Gtz]Mary smells bashfulness in the air. It's not the new kid... Cerise! I'll put an end to that right here and now!
  3098. [2008-11-29 00:36:30] * [Gtz]Mary finds Cerise's face, pulls it out of the water and forces it to grin
  3099. [2008-11-29 00:37:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Smile, you big dork! If you don't have a smile to put on, I'll just give you one of mine.
  3100. [2008-11-29 00:37:26] * [Gtz]Mary capitalizes the point by casting a large grin
  3101. [2008-11-29 00:39:19] * [Pyg]Cerise feels something warm welling up in her chest. Yes, this is why she loves this girl.
  3102. [2008-11-29 00:43:19] * [Pyg]Cerise she looks into Mary's eyes for a moment before finally letting out her own smile.
  3103. [2008-11-29 00:43:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> Thank you, Mary.
  3104. [2008-11-29 00:44:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Thank you, Cerise. We couldn't go on without 'cha.
  3105. [2008-11-29 00:45:31] * [Gtz]Mary sits there for a moment, and breaks the silence
  3106. [2008-11-29 00:46:18] <[Gtz]Mary> Aaah, that was nice. I'm going to get dressed and ready for dinner, Alexis should be done by now. 14 What's that smell...
  3107. [2008-11-29 00:46:41] <[Nom]Alexis> [An explosion rings out from the kitchen]
  3108. [2008-11-29 00:46:55] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Yep, she's done.
  3109. [2008-11-29 00:47:16] <[Gtz]Mary> I wonder why she never comes with us? You think she's bashful too?
  3110. [2008-11-29 00:47:38] * [PB]Teilya looks at the door, and shrugs at Mary
  3111. [2008-11-29 00:48:12] * [Gtz]Mary still can't hear a shrug.
  3112. [2008-11-29 00:48:22] <[PB]Teilya> No idea nya, think we should drag her in next time?
  3113. [2008-11-29 00:49:29] <[Gtz]Mary> We should invite her, but there's no need to force it on her. I could see some people being uncomfortable during all this, though it's quite unfortunate.
  3114. [2008-11-29 00:51:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Saaam? You still with us, sweetie? We're going to get ready for dinner. Do you have a change of clothes handy?
  3115. [2008-11-29 00:51:28] * [PB]Teilya thinks for a moment, and rises out of the bath herself.
  3116. [2008-11-29 00:51:57] * [Gtz]Mary sits on the edge of the tub, toweling off
  3117. [2008-11-29 00:52:33] * [Kly]Sam replies, again, a bit late.
  3118. [2008-11-29 00:52:34] <[PB]Teilya> Well, I guess that's true too, I'll try and invite her next time then~
  3119. [2008-11-29 00:53:20] * [PB]Teilya said with a nod, then snatches a towel with her tail and begin to dry herself.
  3120. [2008-11-29 00:53:26] <[Kly]Sam> The clothes I was wearing seem to be pretty clean, but... could I get... a towel?
  3121. [2008-11-29 00:54:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, certainly! Teilya, would you mind?
  3122. [2008-11-29 00:54:20] * [PB]Teilya smiles, and casually grabs a spare towel with her tail.
  3123. [2008-11-29 00:54:25] <[PB]Teilya> Sure, nya~
  3124. [2008-11-29 00:54:44] * [PB]Teilya then walks up to Sam and hands her the fluffy cloth
  3125. [2008-11-29 00:54:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Thank you.
  3126. [2008-11-29 00:54:57] * [Pyg]Cerise also finishes drying herself with a towel after spending a lot of time on her hair.
  3127. [2008-11-29 00:55:09] <[Kly]Sam> Ah, thank you...
  3128. [2008-11-29 00:55:38] * [PB]Teilya smile broadens and nods.
  3129. [2008-11-29 00:55:45] <[PB]Teilya> No worries nya~
  3130. [2008-11-29 00:56:16] * [Kly]Sam takes the towel, wrapping it around herself and getting out of the bath in one swift motion
  3131. [2008-11-29 00:57:10] * [Kly]Sam then grabs the clothing near the bath and heads behind the screen, emerging a minute later fully dressed
  3132. [2008-11-29 00:57:11] * [Pyg]Cerise proceeds to put on her clothes.
  3133. [2008-11-29 00:58:15] * [Gtz]Mary puts her hair up in a low ponytail, and puts on her fresh clothes
  3134. [2008-11-29 00:58:21] * [PB]Teilya , now also garbed in her maid attire, swings open the bath doors.
  3135. [2008-11-29 00:58:57] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( Ah, I love the cool air after a nice bath~ )
  3136. [2008-11-29 01:00:19] * [Kly]Sam looks as if she's going to say something, but then decides against it
  3137. [2008-11-29 01:04:26] * [PB]Teilya is about to head out when she notices something abnormal with Sam's expression.
  3138. [2008-11-29 01:04:41] <[PB]Teilya> Hey Sam~ Something wrong?
  3139. [2008-11-29 01:05:33] * [Kly]Sam looks up, a smile on her face.
  3140. [2008-11-29 01:05:35] <[Kly]Sam> Oh, n-no, I was just going to say... you all seem to get along pretty well, don't you?
  3141. [2008-11-29 01:06:11] * [PB]Teilya blinks, and smiles brightly as she nods.
  3142. [2008-11-29 01:06:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes! That's what I love about this place, there's plenty of it to go around.
  3143. [2008-11-29 01:06:47] <[PB]Teilya> Nya! We're all very good friends! I'm sure you'll be a great friend too!
  3144. [2008-11-29 01:07:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> Th-they're right, Miss Sam.
  3145. [2008-11-29 01:07:25] <[Nom]Alexis> [On cue, loud cackling erupts from the kitchen direction, as if laughing at some tremendous joke]
  3146. [2008-11-29 01:07:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> I found myself in your position a long time ag--What's Miss Alexis up to now?
  3147. [2008-11-29 01:08:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, boy... I'm not sure if I want to find out...
  3148. [2008-11-29 01:08:21] <[PB]Teilya> Eh? Is Alexis in trouble? She doesn't look too good last time I saw her...
  3149. [2008-11-29 01:09:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah, but neither did you. She's a smart girl, I'm sure she'll be alright.
  3150. [2008-11-29 01:10:48] <[PB]Teilya> Mmm...I guess you're right...
  3151. [2008-11-29 01:10:52] * [Gtz]Mary now fully dressed, finds her friend's hand and waits
  3152. [2008-11-29 01:11:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Shall we go?
  3153. [2008-11-29 01:11:18] <[Kly]Sam> I'm ready, if you all are...
  3154. [2008-11-29 01:11:36] * [PB]Teilya smiles brightly and nods
  3155. [2008-11-29 01:11:46] <[PB]Teilya> Lets go then nya!
  3156. [2008-11-29 01:12:03] * [Pyg]Cerise finishes up tying her apron and then looks into the mirror adjusting her headdress before following the rest out of the room.
  3157. [2008-11-29 01:16:05] <[GM]Tetro> [Everybody makes their way down to the dining room. Alexis is still in the kitchen, doing... whatever, and Ludwig is not yet present.]
  3158. [2008-11-29 01:19:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm, where is Master Ludwig?
  3159. [2008-11-29 01:26:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmmm, smells pretty... good! What're ya makin', Alexis?
  3160. [2008-11-29 01:30:15] * [Nom]Alexis emerges from the kitchen equipped with a welding mask, riot shield, and fire extinguisher
  3161. [2008-11-29 01:31:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Nothing fancy, actually; I thought that with our guest we should try some traditional tastes instead of anything extravagent
  3162. [2008-11-29 01:31:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll be done soon, just give me a sec."
  3163. [2008-11-29 01:32:02] * [Nom]Alexis returns to the kitchen, and comes out with...bowls of salad
  3164. [2008-11-29 01:32:12] * [Pyg]Cerise turns behind her, looking at Sam and giving her a reassuring smile.
  3165. [2008-11-29 01:32:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> Don't worry, she's normally like this.
  3166. [2008-11-29 01:32:29] <[Kly]Sam> I... see.
  3167. [2008-11-29 01:33:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "So I was thinking, too much protein is bad for digestion, so today I've whipped up something wholesome."
  3168. [2008-11-29 01:33:17] * [PB]Teilya is similarly unfazed by the odd attire, instead looks around for Master Ludwig.
  3169. [2008-11-29 01:33:52] * [Gtz]Mary is also unfazed, though for a completely different reason
  3170. [2008-11-29 01:33:54] * [GM]Ludwig comes in the door, still looking as tired as when you left.
  3171. [2008-11-29 01:34:04] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, you're already here. Sorry I'm late.
  3172. [2008-11-29 01:34:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Hello, Ludwig. Where've you been?
  3173. [2008-11-29 01:34:59] <[PB]Teilya> Master! Are you alright?
  3174. [2008-11-29 01:35:16] * [Kly]Sam looks around, still unsure of what to make of all this
  3175. [2008-11-29 01:35:18] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm fine, I'm fine. It's just been a hard day, is all.
  3176. [2008-11-29 01:36:03] * [Pyg]Cerise bows, greeting the master.
  3177. [2008-11-29 01:36:05] * [Gtz]Mary feels bad that she rarely has to bear the burden. Poor Ludwig...
  3178. [2008-11-29 01:36:32] <[GM]Ludwig> Salads? Interesting choice, Alexis. A nice change of pace.
  3179. [2008-11-29 01:37:06] * [GM]Ludwig walks over and takes Sam's hand.
  3180. [2008-11-29 01:37:08] <[Nom]Alexis> "Isn't it just? You really can't mess up salad."
  3181. [2008-11-29 01:37:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I love salad!
  3182. [2008-11-29 01:37:28] <[GM]Ludwig> For tonight, at least, why don't you sit here next to me?
  3183. [2008-11-29 01:38:29] * [Kly]Sam nods
  3184. [2008-11-29 01:38:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ooooh"
  3185. [2008-11-29 01:38:45] * [Nom]Alexis darts next to Mary
  3186. [2008-11-29 01:38:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "You've got competition, Mary."
  3187. [2008-11-29 01:39:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh?
  3188. [2008-11-29 01:39:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't give up now, dear."
  3189. [2008-11-29 01:39:47] * [Nom]Alexis waltzes back into the kitchen to set up for dinner
  3190. [2008-11-29 01:39:50] * [Pyg]Cerise feels a sting of irritation rising in her at hearing Alexis's words.
  3191. [2008-11-29 01:39:50] * [PB]Teilya using this moment of distraction, dragged Cerise away and sat her down on one of the chairs.
  3192. [2008-11-29 01:39:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wah!
  3193. [2008-11-29 01:40:17] <[PB]Teilya> You worry too much nya
  3194. [2008-11-29 01:40:18] * [GM]Ludwig takes his seat, with Sam on his right.
  3195. [2008-11-29 01:40:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> Worry? What makes you think that, Miss Teilya?
  3196. [2008-11-29 01:41:00] * [Gtz]Mary stands there for a moment, slightly bewildered, then realizes she's standing by herself and finds an empty seat
  3197. [2008-11-29 01:41:05] * [Nom]Alexis set up the places for dinner, deliberately making sure s/he doesn't sit next to the master
  3198. [2008-11-29 01:41:08] <[PB]Teilya> How you look, it's easy to spot when you're thinking about something unplesant
  3199. [2008-11-29 01:41:31] * [PB]Teilya then proceeds to seat next to Cerise and ruffles her hair.
  3200. [2008-11-29 01:41:57] <[PB]Teilya> You're still young, let us adults worry about things instead.
  3201. [2008-11-29 01:42:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> (You're the only "adult" here!)
  3202. [2008-11-29 01:42:52] * [Pyg]Cerise breathes slowly to try and calm down.
  3203. [2008-11-29 01:43:00] <[PB]Teilya> [Oh my, I am aren't I~ 4&#9829;]
  3204. [2008-11-29 01:43:20] * [Nom]Alexis suddenly feels cold and forgotten
  3205. [2008-11-29 01:43:31] * [Kly]Sam fidgets a bit, not really knowing what to say
  3206. [2008-11-29 01:45:31] * [GM]Ludwig sees everyone is seated, and turns to Mary. "If you will...?"
  3207. [2008-11-29 01:45:40] * [Pyg]Cerise suddenly feels a little more irritated. Being treated like a kid? That was not the reason for working in this place. If she wanted that she would have stayed home.
  3208. [2008-11-29 01:46:09] * [Gtz]Mary grabs Cerise's hand, and tries to find Ludwig's
  3209. [2008-11-29 01:46:26] * [GM]Ludwig puts his hand in Mary's, and takes Sam's with his other.
  3210. [2008-11-29 01:46:50] * [Pyg]Cerise 's thoughts are suddenly put to a stop when she feels Mary's warm hand in her own. She feels more calm now.
  3211. [2008-11-29 01:47:00] <[GM]Ludwig> 14You take Alexis', now.
  3212. [2008-11-29 01:47:06] * [PB]Teilya also follows the tradition and takes Cerise's hand, while holding out hers at Alexis.
  3213. [2008-11-29 01:47:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig, would you do the honors?
  3214. [2008-11-29 01:48:03] * [Kly]Sam goes along with this, not really sure as to what exactly is going on
  3215. [2008-11-29 01:48:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh, me? Um... v-very well...
  3216. [2008-11-29 01:48:14] * [GM]Ludwig bows his head and closes his eyes.
  3217. [2008-11-29 01:48:15] * [Nom]Alexis grips Sam's hand, and gives her a very ambiguous smile
  3218. [2008-11-29 01:48:37] * [Gtz]Mary bows her head and smiles
  3219. [2008-11-29 01:49:13] <[GM]Ludwig> God in Heaven, we give thanks to You for bringing us safely through another day.
  3220. [2008-11-29 01:50:18] <[GM]Ludwig> And for guiding us to the newest member of our little family. ...um...
  3221. [2008-11-29 01:50:37] <[GM]Ludwig> And, uh, for the food... and stuff. Er, amen, I guess.
  3222. [2008-11-29 01:50:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Amen!
  3223. [2008-11-29 01:50:59] * [GM]Ludwig turns slightly reddish. That could've gone smoother...
  3224. [2008-11-29 01:51:06] <[PB]Teilya> Amen~
  3225. [2008-11-29 01:51:34] * [Gtz]Mary rubs Ludwig's shoulder
  3226. [2008-11-29 01:51:41] * [Kly]Sam catches the drift, and adds her own "Amen" a little tentatively
  3227. [2008-11-29 01:51:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't worry, master. God understands our prayers even when we can't find the words to say them.
  3228. [2008-11-29 01:51:47] * [Nom]Alexis shakes Sam's hand...but not before giving her a suspicious look
  3229. [2008-11-29 01:52:05] * [GM]Ludwig smiles at Mary, still blushing a little.
  3230. [2008-11-29 01:52:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Thanks...
  3231. [2008-11-29 01:52:24] * [Gtz]Mary smiles back. Oh, how I love to smile~
  3232. [2008-11-29 01:52:40] * [Kly]Sam looks at Alexis, curiously
  3233. [2008-11-29 01:52:48] * [GM]Ludwig smiles wider. Oh, how I love to see her smile~
  3234. [2008-11-29 01:53:23] <[GM]Ludwig> So, anyway. Let's eat!
  3235. [2008-11-29 01:53:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Let's!
  3236. [2008-11-29 01:54:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, congratulations, mysterious tube person. Help yourself."
  3237. [2008-11-29 01:55:25] * [Kly]Sam laughs a little at the joke, and turns to the food... waiting for others to begin eating before she does
  3238. [2008-11-29 01:55:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise, could you pass me the dressing?
  3239. [2008-11-29 01:56:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh? Oh, right. Sure.
  3240. [2008-11-29 01:56:30] * [Nom]Alexis will not stand for hesitation, and grabs some salad for Sam
  3241. [2008-11-29 01:56:33] * [GM]Ludwig takes a forkful of greens and digs in.
  3242. [2008-11-29 01:56:43] * [Pyg]Cerise reaches for the dressing and hands it over to Mary.
  3243. [2008-11-29 01:56:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't be shy now, there's plenty to go around, even with an extra mouth to feed."
  3244. [2008-11-29 01:56:46] <[Pyg]Cerise> Here.
  3245. [2008-11-29 01:56:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Thank you~
  3246. [2008-11-29 01:56:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> You're welcome.
  3247. [2008-11-29 01:57:07] * [PB]Teilya gingerly takes the salad and begin her meal.
  3248. [2008-11-29 01:57:11] * [Pyg]Cerise takes her fork and also begins to eat.
  3249. [2008-11-29 01:58:14] * [Kly]Sam also digs in, but not before giving Ludwig and Alexis thanks for the meal
  3250. [2008-11-29 01:58:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Aren't you the polite one? You're worse than Mary."
  3251. [2008-11-29 01:59:14] * [GM]Ludwig leans in towards Sam.
  3252. [2008-11-29 01:59:24] <[GM]Ludwig> 15Don't mind her. Strange sense of humor.
  3253. [2008-11-29 01:59:43] <[GM]Ludwig> 15She means well... mostly.
  3254. [2008-11-29 01:59:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Best to be too thankful than not thankful enough.
  3255. [2008-11-29 02:00:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "I don't know what you said, master, but hands off the newcomer."
  3256. [2008-11-29 02:00:17] * [Gtz]Mary gingerly pours some dressing on her salad, trying to judge if she's poured enough. Eventually settles to only pour a little bit, afraid she may drown it and ruin the meal
  3257. [2008-11-29 02:00:20] * [GM]Ludwig leans back and gives Alexis an innocent look.
  3258. [2008-11-29 02:00:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh? Are you staking your own claim, then?
  3259. [2008-11-29 02:00:49] * [Kly]Sam tries to ignore all of this, and begins eating
  3260. [2008-11-29 02:00:53] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( Uh oh. )
  3261. [2008-11-29 02:01:18] * [PB]Teilya smiles secretly at the scene, but says nothing.
  3262. [2008-11-29 02:01:37] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig an "Oh ho, you're not getting me with that one" look
  3263. [2008-11-29 02:01:58] * [GM]Ludwig grins back at Alexis.
  3264. [2008-11-29 02:02:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "You're a young and virile young man, master, but please refrain to one at a time."
  3265. [2008-11-29 02:02:52] <[GM]Ludwig> *ahem!* So, anyway...
  3266. [2008-11-29 02:03:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Sam, how are you feeling now?
  3267. [2008-11-29 02:03:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Loved."
  3268. [2008-11-29 02:03:36] * [Nom]Alexis winks at Sam
  3269. [2008-11-29 02:03:52] * [Kly]Sam nods.
  3270. [2008-11-29 02:04:02] <[Kly]Sam> Much better, too, after the bath.
  3271. [2008-11-29 02:04:17] * [GM]Ludwig beams. "Good, good. I'm glad to hear that."
  3272. [2008-11-29 02:05:07] * [Gtz]Mary a thought occurs to her
  3273. [2008-11-29 02:06:36] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Master Ludwig, do you have arrangements for Sam prepared?
  3274. [2008-11-29 02:06:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... arrangements?
  3275. [2008-11-29 02:07:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh! You mean, where she'll stay? I mean, sleep and, uh, whatever?
  3276. [2008-11-29 02:07:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, sleep.
  3277. [2008-11-29 02:07:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, no, haven't really had a chance to think about that, yet.
  3278. [2008-11-29 02:08:12] <[GM]Ludwig> I take it you have an idea on those lines?
  3279. [2008-11-29 02:08:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm... Well, if we don't have a place for her right now, she could share our room for the night.
  3280. [2008-11-29 02:09:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Your room... with you and Cerise? But there's only two beds there, or am I wrong?
  3281. [2008-11-29 02:09:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, don't worry, we'll work something out.
  3282. [2008-11-29 02:09:52] <[Kly]Sam> I wouldn't want to impose... wasn't there a bed in the medical room? I could sleep there...
  3283. [2008-11-29 02:10:31] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, the medical room is fine if you're convalescing, but it's not exactly made for comfort.
  3284. [2008-11-29 02:10:56] <[GM]Ludwig> And anyway, there's always the spare bed in Te--
  3285. [2008-11-29 02:10:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, come on now, you don't have to sleep in the medical room! I don't see how you could, the way it smells...
  3286. [2008-11-29 02:11:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "Especially when we're apparently trying to make you feel at home."
  3287. [2008-11-29 02:11:18] * [GM]Ludwig stops short and looks between Mary and Sam.
  3288. [2008-11-29 02:11:38] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm... yes, actually. That would do fine. For tonight, at least.
  3289. [2008-11-29 02:12:02] <[GM]Ludwig> If Cerise has no objections, that is.
  3290. [2008-11-29 02:12:15] * [Gtz]Mary whispers in Cerise's ear:
  3291. [2008-11-29 02:12:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, it's fine, Master.
  3292. [2008-11-29 02:12:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> I won't mind.
  3293. [2008-11-29 02:12:38] * [Kly]Sam gives in.
  3294. [2008-11-29 02:12:58] <[Kly]Sam> I guess... it's fine, then. If neither of you object...
  3295. [2008-11-29 02:13:03] * [Pyg]Cerise chews on her salad as she feels a little disappointed at not being alone with Mary, even if it's just for one night.
  3296. [2008-11-29 02:13:22] <[Gtz]Mary> 14It'd be good if we have a place to keep an eye on her. Do you mind if we share a bed for tonight? I'll let her take mine so she'll feel less awkward, your bed's big enough for two girls, right?
  3297. [2008-11-29 02:13:49] * [Pyg]Cerise thinks, it shouldn't be a big de--Share? Bed? With Mary?
  3298. [2008-11-29 02:14:39] * [Pyg]Cerise , caught off guard by Mary's suggestion, tries to process all Mary's words.
  3299. [2008-11-29 02:14:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> 14Y-yes, it should be big enough...
  3300. [2008-11-29 02:16:21] <[Gtz]Mary> 14Good. Thanks. I think we've reached an agreement.
  3301. [2008-11-29 02:16:41] * [Gtz]Mary smiles broadly
  3302. [2008-11-29 02:16:54] * [GM]Ludwig nods decisively.
  3303. [2008-11-29 02:17:03] * [Pyg]Cerise (Me and Mary in the same bed? I don't think my heart is ready for such a step forward!)
  3304. [2008-11-29 02:17:06] * [Nom]Alexis gives a sigh of relief
  3305. [2008-11-29 02:17:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Very good. Perhaps after dinner, before retiring, you could show Sam around the fortress a little, too?
  3306. [2008-11-29 02:18:36] <[Gtz]Mary> Sure! We'd be happy to.
  3307. [2008-11-29 02:19:42] * [Kly]Sam nods, and then smiles.
  3308. [2008-11-29 02:20:24] <[Kly]Sam> Thank you for your kindness, but... not to be rude or anything, you mentioned something about the world ending before. I'm still very confused...
  3309. [2008-11-29 02:20:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "Actually, I wanted her to come help me with cleaning up the kitchen; since it's such an important part of the place, I think she should get acquainted with it as soon as possible."
  3310. [2008-11-29 02:21:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh... right.
  3311. [2008-11-29 02:21:36] * [GM]Ludwig pushes what's left of his salad around the bowl a bit.
  3312. [2008-11-29 02:21:53] <[Gtz]Mary> It hasn't really ended, but it's a major event that completely changed the world.
  3313. [2008-11-29 02:22:03] <[GM]Ludwig> You don't remember anything, do you, Sam? Not even your name?
  3314. [2008-11-29 02:22:34] <[Kly]Sam> Unless Sam is my real name, no. I tried, but it's like there's this fog around my memories...
  3315. [2008-11-29 02:23:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm...
  3316. [2008-11-29 02:23:21] * [GM]Ludwig nods, as if he'd been half-expecting this response.
  3317. [2008-11-29 02:23:35] * [PB]Teilya speaks up at this point.
  3318. [2008-11-29 02:23:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, I get that sometimes, usually after I've been sampling the villager's taffee."
  3319. [2008-11-29 02:23:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Hopefully, that fog will lift in time.
  3320. [2008-11-29 02:24:30] <[PB]Teilya> Perhaps I could run a brief diagnostic on her brainwave patterns, it may reveal some answers as to what may be the cause of her amnesia.
  3321. [2008-11-29 02:24:43] <[GM]Ludwig> But, what Mary said is accurate. The world isn't over quite yet.
  3322. [2008-11-29 02:25:03] * [GM]Ludwig shifts in his seat to face Sam directly.
  3323. [2008-11-29 02:25:45] * [PB]Teilya , noticing that no one seems to heard what she said, shrugs and gets back to her meal.
  3324. [2008-11-29 02:25:52] <[GM]Ludwig> Five years ago, civilization was devastated by an invasion of giant beetles from... well, nobody really knows where.
  3325. [2008-11-29 02:27:29] <[Nom]Alexis> ("Teilya, if you want to do that, we'll just smack her over the head and call it a day. It'd be faster.")
  3326. [2008-11-29 02:27:47] <[Gtz]Mary> It came from everywhere. All at once. Sigh...
  3327. [2008-11-29 02:28:10] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't suppose it really matters. The point is, this is Beelteoven Fortress, the last holdout of humanity. So far as we know.
  3328. [2008-11-29 02:28:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Just the five... er, six of us, now, and a village of about a hundred and fifty.
  3329. [2008-11-29 02:28:58] * [PB]Teilya heard Alexis' whisper, and returns the gesture.
  3330. [2008-11-29 02:29:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I'm sure there's more. Perhaps even whole counties have held a bastion against it.
  3331. [2008-11-29 02:29:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "Everything else is either beetle nest or smoking nuclear craters."
  3332. [2008-11-29 02:29:18] <[PB]Teilya> 14I hope you're joking...
  3333. [2008-11-29 02:29:45] * [Gtz]Mary drops a little, remembering where she was on That Day. And what she said...
  3334. [2008-11-29 02:30:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Either one of those is possible. We really don't know much about what's going on outside. We had no idea you were even out there until we got your distress beacon.
  3335. [2008-11-29 02:30:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm sure there are surviving settlements out there. If there are scavengers around, then there are definitely survivors elsewhere.
  3336. [2008-11-29 02:31:25] * [Pyg]Cerise unconsciously rests her hand on the wound on her leg.
  3337. [2008-11-29 02:31:28] <[GM]Ludwig> That's... true.
  3338. [2008-11-29 02:31:36] <[GM]Ludwig> If they could survive...
  3339. [2008-11-29 02:32:16] * [PB]Teilya freezes up for a moment, but otherwise does nothing other than eating.
  3340. [2008-11-29 02:32:31] <[Kly]Sam> I... don't know what to say.
  3341. [2008-11-29 02:32:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, anyway, that's roughly where we stand. The magic passed down through my family, and the efforts of my maids here, keep this place safe.
  3342. [2008-11-29 02:32:55] <[Gtz]Mary> It's a lot to take in, isn't it?
  3343. [2008-11-29 02:33:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, if we're starting with a blank slate, we might as well scribe everything at once."
  3344. [2008-11-29 02:33:41] * [Kly]Sam laughs nervously
  3345. [2008-11-29 02:33:44] <[Kly]Sam> It's not the greatest thing to wake up to, no.
  3346. [2008-11-29 02:34:16] <[PB]Teilya> But, at least in here you'll be safe. I had failed to save the one with you...
  3347. [2008-11-29 02:34:22] <[Gtz]Mary> We'll take it back, though. Everyday is a step forward in that direction.
  3348. [2008-11-29 02:34:30] * [PB]Teilya sighs, then looks up.
  3349. [2008-11-29 02:34:36] <[Gtz]Mary> You being here is proof of it.
  3350. [2008-11-29 02:34:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "You've got it pretty good, in reality. You could have woken up with some demon insect gnawing at your legs."
  3351. [2008-11-29 02:34:58] <[PB]Teilya> So, I will protect you instead, as I am sure everyone here will do the same for each other.
  3352. [2008-11-29 02:35:37] <[PB]Teilya> They are my family...the ones I loved...
  3353. [2008-11-29 02:35:41] * [Gtz]Mary smiles at Teilya's words, and the thoughts behind them.
  3354. [2008-11-29 02:35:43] * [PB]Teilya smiles a little.
  3355. [2008-11-29 02:35:58] * [Nom]Alexis wants an acoustic guitar
  3356. [2008-11-29 02:35:59] <[PB]Teilya> And...now, you are a part of it.
  3357. [2008-11-29 02:37:01] <[Kly]Sam> Again, I... thank you. You're all so kind.
  3358. [2008-11-29 02:37:34] <[GM]Ludwig> It's the least we can do.
  3359. [2008-11-29 02:37:45] * [Pyg]Cerise the word "family" lingers in her mind for a while. She wonders how her family is doing out there. They're fine, she's sure of it.
  3360. [2008-11-29 02:37:49] <[Gtz]Mary> We take good care of each other here at Beetleoven Fortress.
  3361. [2008-11-29 02:37:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "The least we can do is actually--"
  3362. [2008-11-29 02:37:58] <[Kly]Sam> I wish I had some way to repay you all, but...
  3363. [2008-11-29 02:38:02] * [Nom]Alexis shuts herself up
  3364. [2008-11-29 02:38:23] * [Gtz]Mary puts a hand on Cerise's knee and gives it a gentle squeeze and shake
  3365. [2008-11-29 02:38:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm?
  3366. [2008-11-29 02:38:42] <[PB]Teilya> We're a family, and we all won't have it any other way. You don't have to repay anything, just be yourself and that will be...the best thing you can do...for me...
  3367. [2008-11-29 02:38:50] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, and says:
  3368. [2008-11-29 02:39:09] <[Nom]Alexis> ("Except she doesn't remember who she is, you silly cat."
  3369. [2008-11-29 02:39:21] <[PB]Teilya> Stay alive...that is my wish. I will protect you, so be who you are, who you want to be.
  3370. [2008-11-29 02:39:32] <[Gtz]Mary> One can pay back the loan of gold, but one dies forever in debt to those who are kind. It's a good debt to be in, don't worry about it.
  3371. [2008-11-29 02:39:42] <[Nom]Alexis> ("You're making it worse")
  3372. [2008-11-29 02:42:21] <[PB]Teilya> We lived in the present, and it is the future that is important. Lingering with the past, even if, no, especially if you cannot remember, will not make it any better. Smile, brave the uncertain future. It's what we can do now.
  3373. [2008-11-29 02:42:23] * [Nom]Alexis grates more cheese onto her salad
  3374. [2008-11-29 02:42:23] * [Kly]Sam nods, understanding but unsure of how to respond
  3375. [2008-11-29 02:43:45] * [Gtz]Mary hearing Teilya's words, recites a small saying she heard once:
  3376. [2008-11-29 02:44:01] <[Gtz]Mary> "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. And today? Today is a gift. That's why we call it the 'present'. "
  3377. [2008-11-29 02:44:51] * [Nom]Alexis chokes
  3378. [2008-11-29 02:45:07] * [PB]Teilya smiles at Mary's words.
  3379. [2008-11-29 02:46:08] * [Pyg]Cerise feels at ease upon hearing Mary's words.
  3380. [2008-11-29 02:46:47] * [Kly]Sam stifles a laugh at Alexis's reaction, but also nods.
  3381. [2008-11-29 02:50:48] * [Gtz]Mary finished with her meal, simply sits back and smiles, content with the meal and the atmosphere around her
  3382. [2008-11-29 02:51:40] * [PB]Teilya had also finished her meal, and started to brush her tail with her hands.
  3383. [2008-11-29 02:52:11] * [GM]Ludwig scrapes up the last few remaining leaves, then pushes the bowl away, empty.
  3384. [2008-11-29 02:52:48] * [Nom]Alexis looks around at the content little airheads around her, and gives a resigned sigh
  3385. [2008-11-29 02:52:50] * [Kly]Sam finishes the salad, then sits at the table staring into the empty bowl
  3386. [2008-11-29 02:52:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Very refreshing, Alexis. My compliments.
  3387. [2008-11-29 02:53:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, it was. Thank you again.
  3388. [2008-11-29 02:53:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, would you mind helping Alexis with the dishes?
  3389. [2008-11-29 02:53:45] * [Kly]Sam nods
  3390. [2008-11-29 02:53:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "YOU SHOULD HAVE SEEN THE OTHER GUY--I mean, THE STEAK DIDN'T STAND A CHANC--I mean, it's my pleasure as always."
  3391. [2008-11-29 02:54:53] * [PB]Teilya nods
  3392. [2008-11-29 02:54:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "And Sam can help me with the dishes; I rather keep Teilya out of the kitchen, with respect."
  3393. [2008-11-29 02:54:55] <[PB]Teilya> Of course.
  3394. [2008-11-29 02:55:02] <[PB]Teilya> ...
  3395. [2008-11-29 02:55:28] * [PB]Teilya pouts at Alexis' comment, but say nothing more.
  3396. [2008-11-29 02:55:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Now now, Teilya, just in case Sam turns out to be asthmatic."
  3397. [2008-11-29 02:56:13] <[PB]Teilya> Fine, fine, I'll be in the medical room then, I guess...
  3398. [2008-11-29 02:56:15] <[Kly]Sam> I'd be glad to help.
  3399. [2008-11-29 02:56:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh? Well, that's fine, too, I suppose.
  3400. [2008-11-29 02:56:39] * [PB]Teilya turns and looks at Sam with a warm but serious smile.
  3401. [2008-11-29 02:57:11] <[PB]Teilya> If you feel unwell, any where and any degree at all, come to the medical room immediately. Will you do that please?
  3402. [2008-11-29 02:57:44] * [Kly]Sam nods.
  3403. [2008-11-29 02:57:46] <[Kly]Sam> I promise.
  3404. [2008-11-29 02:57:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm sure nothing will happen to her in the kitchen, Teilya."
  3405. [2008-11-29 02:58:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Then after I get her acquainted with the kitchen, I'll trust you three to show her around."
  3406. [2008-11-29 02:58:56] * [Pyg]Cerise pulls her sleeve a bit to check the watch on her wrist.
  3407. [2008-11-29 03:00:37] * [PB]Teilya smiles and nods at Sam.
  3408. [2008-11-29 03:00:51] <[PB]Teilya> Good, then have fun mingling with Alexis in the kitchen nya~
  3409. [2008-11-29 03:01:44] * [Nom]Alexis turns to the master in formal fashion
  3410. [2008-11-29 03:02:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, I shall bring your tea to your room afterwards. Please rest well this evening."
  3411. [2008-11-29 03:02:17] * [PB]Teilya ruffles Sam's hair, turn and bow to Ludwig, and walked off towards her station.
  3412. [2008-11-29 03:02:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, thank you, Alexis. I think I will turn in for the evening.
  3413. [2008-11-29 03:03:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "Very well then, master. Let nothing disturb you tonight."
  3414. [2008-11-29 03:03:31] * [GM]Ludwig stands up and half-bows politely to the room, begging pardon before leaving for his bedroom.
  3415. [2008-11-29 03:04:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> Good night, Master.
  3416. [2008-11-29 03:04:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "Come along now, Sam. I shall show you the great secrets of the Beetleoven. Starting with the kitchen."
  3417. [2008-11-29 03:04:37] <[Kly]Sam> ...sleep well.
  3418. [2008-11-29 03:04:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Good night, Ludwig. Sleep tight and don't let the bed bugs bite!
  3419. [2008-11-29 03:05:13] * [Kly]Sam nods
  3420. [2008-11-29 03:06:54] <[Gtz]Mary> I think I'll just keep Cerise company. See you in little while, okay?
  3421. [2008-11-29 03:07:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> I could use the company. It gets lonely patrolling at night sometimes.
  3422. [2008-11-29 03:07:48] * [Kly]Sam again, nods.
  3423. [2008-11-29 03:07:53] <[Kly]Sam> See you later, Mary.
  3424. [2008-11-29 03:08:13] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( Ah! She said my name! So nice~ )
  3425. [2008-11-29 03:08:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Goodbye, Sam. And if Alexis asks you if you want to see her "trick", you say no, okay?
  3426. [2008-11-29 03:09:13] * [Nom]Alexis tries to look hurt and offended
  3427. [2008-11-29 03:09:16] <[Kly]Sam> Trick?
  3428. [2008-11-29 03:09:22] * [Kly]Sam is confused
  3429. [2008-11-29 03:09:54] * [Gtz]Mary can't see hurt or offendedness
  3430. [2008-11-29 03:10:13] * [Nom]Alexis wasn't doing it for her sake
  3431. [2008-11-29 03:10:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's Hungarian for 'family photos'. Follow me now."
  3432. [2008-11-29 03:10:59] * [Nom]Alexis picks up the piled dishes and heads off to the kitchen
  3433. [2008-11-29 03:11:18] * [Kly]Sam follows after Alexis
  3434. [2008-11-29 03:12:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "So here's the Beetleoven kitchen. For better or worse, almost all our meals are made here. We might have another kitchen or two somewhere, but I'm pretty sure they're sealed."
  3435. [2008-11-29 03:13:13] * [Gtz]Mary leaves with Cerise, content with the establishment of a new friend
  3436. [2008-11-29 03:14:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "We have a dishwasher, but it's not very good. I don't know what it runs on, but it's a good bet it isn't electricity. So try not to use it while you're alone."
  3437. [2008-11-29 03:15:52] * [Nom]Alexis , still with her back turned to Sam (who is presumably following behind), carefully places the dishes in the largest sink.
  3438. [2008-11-29 03:17:38] * [Kly]Sam is following quietly, paying close attention to what Alexis is saying
  3439. [2008-11-29 03:18:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "While we're here, we should--"
  3440. [2008-11-29 03:18:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "WHO ARE YOU?"
  3441. [2008-11-29 03:19:23] * [Kly]Sam jumps at the sudden outburst
  3442. [2008-11-29 03:19:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "ANSWER. WHO ARE YOU?"
  3443. [2008-11-29 03:20:35] <[Kly]Sam> W-what...?
  3444. [2008-11-29 03:20:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "WE DO NOT KNOW YOU. YOU TRESPASS HERE, MORTAL."
  3445. [2008-11-29 03:21:49] * [Kly]Sam gets closer, trying to peer over Alexis's shoulder. Who is she talking to?
  3446. [2008-11-29 03:23:17] * [Nom]Alexis half turns towards Sam, her eyes flaming from within the shadows that hide her face
  3447. [2008-11-29 03:24:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "YOU HAVE TRESPASSED ON THE GROUNDS OF THE BEETLEOVEN. THE PENALTY FOR TRESPASS IS DEATH."
  3448. [2008-11-29 03:25:38] * [Kly]Sam steps backwards, panic crossing her face
  3449. [2008-11-29 03:25:46] <[Kly]Sam> W-what's going on...?
  3450. [2008-11-29 03:27:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "WE DO NOT RECOGNISE YOU. YOU ARE NOT THE MASTER AND YOU ARE NOT ONE OF HIS VASSALS. YOU TRESPASS HERE, MORTAL."
  3451. [2008-11-29 03:29:34] <[Kly]Sam> I-I... t-trespass?
  3452. [2008-11-29 03:30:07] <[Kly]Sam> I-I'm a g-g-guest...
  3453. [2008-11-29 03:30:46] * [Kly]Sam 's will begins to faulter, and she takes a few more steps back... eye's shifting between the doorway and Alexis
  3454. [2008-11-29 03:32:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "WE REPEAT. YOU ARE NOT THE MASTER, AND YOU ARE NOT ONE OF HIS VASSALS. WE DO NOT RECOGNISE YOU, AND CANNOT SUFFER YOUR PRESENCE."
  3455. [2008-11-29 03:35:08] * [Kly]Sam backs up even farther, letting out a nervous laugh
  3456. [2008-11-29 03:35:10] <[Kly]Sam> T-this is a joke, right?
  3457. [2008-11-29 03:36:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "WE HAVE WASTED TIME WITH YOU, INTRUDER. DIE."
  3458. [2008-11-29 03:39:10] * [Kly]Sam continues to back up, prepared to bolt if Alexis makes any sudden movements
  3459. [2008-11-29 03:39:32] * [Nom]Alexis raises her hand...
  3460. [2008-11-29 03:42:08] * [Kly]Sam gasps and runs off to the shelter of the doorway, her head just poking around the corner
  3461. [2008-11-29 03:43:11] * [Nom]Alexis tosses a fireball in her general direction
  3462. [2008-11-29 03:44:13] * [Kly]Sam ducks behind the corner, and then bolts out the nearest door that leads further into the mansion
  3463. [2008-11-29 03:45:43] <[Nom]Alexis> "YOU CANNOT FLEE FROM YOUR--huh."
  3464. [2008-11-29 03:45:49] * [Nom]Alexis snaps back
  3465. [2008-11-29 03:46:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "I must have dozed off there for a second, sorry--huh, where did Sam go off to?"
  3466. [2008-11-29 03:46:18] * [Nom]Alexis shrugs
  3467. [2008-11-29 03:46:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "I guess the dishes are pretty daunting."
  3468. [2008-11-29 03:46:54] * [Nom]Alexis goes back to doing the dishes while whistling a country ditty
  3469. [2008-11-29 03:54:24] <[GM]Tetro> [Sam, meanwhile, runs in a panic, finding her way back to the medical room with Teilya waiting there.]
  3470. [2008-11-29 03:55:24] * [Kly]Sam comes bursting into the room, face red from exhaustion
  3471. [2008-11-29 03:55:56] * [PB]Teilya looks up from her paperworks, a bit surprised at the sudden intrusion.
  3472. [2008-11-29 03:56:12] <[PB]Teilya> Oh, is something the matter, Sam? Are you feeling unwell?
  3473. [2008-11-29 03:56:37] <[Kly]Sam> T-there's a... *hah*...
  3474. [2008-11-29 03:57:00] <[Kly]Sam> a...
  3475. [2008-11-29 03:57:06] * [Kly]Sam frowns
  3476. [2008-11-29 03:57:25] * [PB]Teilya blinks in confusion.
  3477. [2008-11-29 03:57:34] <[PB]Teilya> There's a what?
  3478. [2008-11-29 03:58:00] <[Kly]Sam> Alexis, she said I was... trespassing, and her eyes... *hah*... were all red...
  3479. [2008-11-29 03:59:07] * [PB]Teilya frowns slightly at her words, Alexis? Trespassing? What is it with that...
  3480. [2008-11-29 03:59:33] <[PB]Teilya> I see, well, why don't you take a seat and calm down a bit first?
  3481. [2008-11-29 03:59:55] * [Kly]Sam nods, visibly shaken by the whole thing
  3482. [2008-11-29 04:00:12] * [Nom]Alexis , quite distressed by suddenly disappearing guests, goes out looking for her
  3483. [2008-11-29 04:00:40] * [PB]Teilya walked off into a side room for a moment, then returned with glass of water.
  3484. [2008-11-29 04:00:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sam~! Sam, darling~! Where did you run off to~?"
  3485. [2008-11-29 04:01:00] <[PB]Teilya> Here, some water to help you.
  3486. [2008-11-29 04:01:43] <[Kly]Sam> T-thank you...
  3487. [2008-11-29 04:02:02] <[Nom]Alexis> [from up the hall, a cheerful voice is calling]
  3488. [2008-11-29 04:02:16] * [Kly]Sam takes the glass and begins drinking, her breathing going down somewhat
  3489. [2008-11-29 04:02:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sam? Sam? Where are you?"
  3490. [2008-11-29 04:02:51] * [PB]Teilya looks out the doors of the medical room with a frown. Here comes the culprit.
  3491. [2008-11-29 04:03:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey, Teilya, did you see Sam? We were just introducing the dishwasher and she darted off. I can't for the life of me figure out where she might have gone."
  3492. [2008-11-29 04:05:34] * [PB]Teilya nods and walks out of the room, closing the door lightly behind her.
  3493. [2008-11-29 04:06:01] <[PB]Teilya> Yes, in fact, she's currently seating inside, resting.
  3494. [2008-11-29 04:06:49] * [PB]Teilya sighs, and stares sternly at Alexis.
  3495. [2008-11-29 04:07:05] <[PB]Teilya> What did you do this time, Alexis?
  3496. [2008-11-29 04:07:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "Do?"
  3497. [2008-11-29 04:07:26] * [Nom]Alexis tilts her head quizically
  3498. [2008-11-29 04:07:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "I didn't even touch her, I swear."
  3499. [2008-11-29 04:08:05] * [PB]Teilya continues to stare, and repeats again.
  3500. [2008-11-29 04:08:09] <[PB]Teilya> What did you do this time, Alexis?
  3501. [2008-11-29 04:09:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "I stacked the dishes. That's what I did. I confess to everything."
  3502. [2008-11-29 04:09:48] * [PB]Teilya doesn't drop the stare.
  3503. [2008-11-29 04:10:14] <[PB]Teilya> I am not talking to you, Alexis. I am talking to you. Answer me.
  3504. [2008-11-29 04:11:35] * [Nom]Alexis looks behind her
  3505. [2008-11-29 04:11:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "WHO?"
  3506. [2008-11-29 04:12:31] * [PB]Teilya suddenly grabs the back of Alexis' head and pulls it close to hers, totally serious business.
  3507. [2008-11-29 04:12:56] <[PB]Teilya> I say again. Answer me, Alexis.
  3508. [2008-11-29 04:14:37] * [Kly]Sam has, by this point, recovered, and has one ear against the crack of the door
  3509. [2008-11-29 04:15:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "What can I say, Teilya? Nothing."
  3510. [2008-11-29 04:17:15] <[PB]Teilya> Do not hide, I know who you are. Answer me, demon.
  3511.  
  3512.  
  3513.  
  3514.  
  3515.  
  3516.  
  3517.  
  3518.  
  3519.  
  3520. @@---
  3521. @@=====
  3522. @@Session Six
  3523. @@=====
  3524. @@---
  3525.  
  3526. [22:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teilya? Teilya, are you all right? I'm not sure where you're getting your wild ideas, but you're obviously distressed. Perhaps it's best you call it a night."
  3527. [22:04] * [Nom]Alexis makes an attempt to slip out of Teilya's grip and back away
  3528. [22:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "If anything's wrong, you should really take it up with the master. Otherwise I'll leave you to yourself for now."
  3529. [22:06] * [PB]Teilya stares hard at Alexis, before letting go and walk towards the door.
  3530. [22:07] * [Nom]Alexis slowly retreats back to the kitchen as one does from a feral animal
  3531. [22:07] <[PB]Teilya> Alexis, don't you try anything.
  3532. [22:07] <[PB]Teilya> I will know.
  3533. [22:07] * [Nom]Alexis gives a placating smile
  3534. [22:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "Good night, Teilya."
  3535. [22:07] <[PB]Teilya> Hmph...
  3536. [22:08] * [Nom]Alexis once out of sight, Alexis whisks back to the kitchen, and prepares a tray of snacks to visit the master with...
  3537. [22:08] * [PB]Teilya pushes open the medical room's doors and walks right in.
  3538. [22:16] * [Kly]Sam tries to get out of the way, but gets hit by the door
  3539. [22:16] <[Kly]Sam> Ow...
  3540. [22:18] * [PB]Teilya pauses when she feel something blocking the door.
  3541. [22:18] <[PB]Teilya> Huh?
  3542. [22:18] <[PB]Teilya> Sam? Is that you?
  3543. [22:20] <[Kly]Sam> S-sorry...
  3544. [22:21] <[PB]Teilya> ...
  3545. [22:21] * [PB]Teilya sighs, then closes the door behind her.
  3546. [22:22] <[PB]Teilya> How...how much did you hear?
  3547. [22:23] <[Kly]Sam> ...most of it... sorry.
  3548. [22:23] <[PB]Teilya> ...no, it's fine...
  3549. [22:24] <[PB]Teilya> Just...keep those to yourself, it's better no one else finds out...
  3550. [22:27] * [Kly]Sam sighs, and backs away.
  3551. [22:27] <[Kly]Sam> I will. Sorry...
  3552. [22:27] * [PB]Teilya sighs again, then walks up and pulls Sam into a light hug.
  3553. [22:28] <[PB]Teilya> No, no...it's fine...you'll be alright...
  3554. [22:28] <[PB]Teilya> I won't let anything happen to you, okay?
  3555. [22:29] * [PB]Teilya gently ruffles Sam's head with her hand.
  3556. [22:32] <[Kly]Sam> H-hey...
  3557. [22:34] <[GM]Tetro> [Fade out]
  3558. [22:34] <[GM]Tetro> [Scene change!]
  3559. [22:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Brrr...It's chilly tonight.
  3560. [22:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Is it? I love the night air... It feels me with a sense of peace.
  3561. [22:35] * [Pyg]Cerise rubs her nose as she surveys the surroundings from the fortress walls.
  3562. [22:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> I really hope we don't get attacked...
  3563. [22:39] * [Pyg]Cerise fidgets a little, knowing Mary is nearby. How is she supposed to focus on keeping an eye out?
  3564. [22:40] * [Gtz]Mary pulls loose the tie containing her ponytail, allowing it to blow freely
  3565. [22:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey, Cerise... If you don't mind me asking, where are you from?
  3566. [22:43] * [Pyg]Cerise looks at Mary, now with her hair feely flowing with the wind. She can't help but be dumb-founded and not hearing her question.
  3567. [22:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Um...What?
  3568. [22:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I'm sorry... I know how it is, with the war and all.
  3569. [22:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> No...I...uh, mean...What did you say?
  3570. [22:46] <[Gtz]Mary> I asked where you were from, but you don't have to answer that. It just sort of came into my mind, that's all.
  3571. [22:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh...Well, I don't really have a place I come from.
  3572. [22:48] * [Gtz]Mary twitches like she's been shot
  3573. [22:48] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Sorry. Really, I didn't mean to bring up anything painful. We can talk about something else if yo want.
  3574. [22:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-huh?
  3575. [22:49] * [Pyg]Cerise panics at the sight of a distressed Mary.
  3576. [22:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...It's not painful or anything! Really! I don't mind!
  3577. [22:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> The city we used to live in is long gone now.
  3578. [22:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Mm... I'm sorry.
  3579. [22:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> My family decided to continue their livelihood as traveling merchants.
  3580. [22:51] <[Gtz]Mary> !
  3581. [22:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Your... family?
  3582. [22:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Y-yes. I didn't really like moving around much so I decided to find a job in one place.
  3583. [22:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Are they... well... you know... Well, right?
  3584. [22:55] * [Gtz]Mary . o O ( Please God, tell me they're fine, tell me they're alive, tell me she isn't alone, tell me... )
  3585. [22:55] * [Pyg]Cerise nods, a faint smile on her face.
  3586. [22:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> I don't have to worry. My brother's keeping them all safe.
  3587. [22:56] * [Pyg]Cerise seems to hold her rifle closer to her as she stares out into the distance.
  3588. [22:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Cerise, you don't know how glad it makes me to hear that...
  3589. [22:57] * [Gtz]Mary slowly walks over to Cerise and wraps her arms around her
  3590. [22:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Ah! M-M-Mary?
  3591. [22:58] <[Gtz]Mary> I was always afraid for you... You never talked about your family, so I always feared for the worst. I'm glad yours are still well.
  3592. [22:59] * [Gtz]Mary holds Cerise by the shoulders and gives Cerise a daunting look
  3593. [22:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...
  3594. [23:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Why aren't you with them now? A girl your age should be with her family! Unless... Shoot, did I say too much again?
  3595. [23:02] * [Pyg]Cerise shakes her head vigorously despite its reddish hue.
  3596. [23:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> O-of course not!
  3597. [23:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> I just wanted to experience doing things on my own...
  3598. [23:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Though I suppose the decision to be a maid is a strange choice to make.
  3599. [23:06] <[Gtz]Mary> *Sigh* You dope, in such a hurry to grow up... Though I suppose we all have to grow up fast in this world. I hate that for you.
  3600. [23:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...B-but I'm glad I did.
  3601. [23:06] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, and puts an arm back around Cerise
  3602. [23:07] * [Pyg]Cerise tries looking straight at Mary's eyes, her body visibly shaking now.
  3603. [23:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah, I'm glad you did too. But you better see your family as soon you can, you hear me? You don't know how good you have it until it's gone. I'd like to meet them too, actually.
  3604. [23:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> (Wait a minute! C-could this be it?)
  3605. [23:09] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Cerise, is there something wrong? Are you really that cold out here? You're shaking, and your heart's beating like a hummingbird.
  3606. [23:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...Um....Uh....
  3607. [23:10] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Hey, that reminds me...
  3608. [23:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> (My heart's beating that loudly?)
  3609. [23:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> (Damn it, Cerise! Calm down!)
  3610. [23:11] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...O-of what?
  3611. [23:11] <[Gtz]Mary> There's something I haven't done with yet. Put down your rifle for a second.
  3612. [23:12] * [Gtz]Mary stands directly in front of Cerise, or at least as directly as she can get
  3613. [23:12] * [Pyg]Cerise lays her gun by the wall.
  3614. [23:12] <[Gtz]Mary> All right. Now close your eyes.
  3615. [23:12] <[Pyg]Cerise> (Wh-what is this? What's she planning? It can't be...!)
  3616. [23:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...O-okay!
  3617. [23:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> (This is it, Cerise! There's no turning back now!)
  3618. [23:13] * [Pyg]Cerise shuts her eyes tight.
  3619. [23:13] <[Gtz]Mary> I haven't done this since I worked at the hospital, so sorry if it's a little sloppy...
  3620. [23:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> (OHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGOD)
  3621. [23:14] * [Gtz]Mary very gently places her hands across her face, feeling out every texture and curve
  3622. [23:15] * [Gtz]Mary feels everything. The lips, nose, eyes, brow, chin, ears...
  3623. [23:15] <[Pyg]Cerise> (My dearest Mary, have you finally realized it? Please, let it be true! I could die happy after this!)
  3624. [23:15] <[Gtz]Mary> This is my way of 'seeing' you. Really I should have done this earlier, but I kept forgetting...
  3625. [23:16] <[Gtz]Mary> ..hmhmm... You're quite a pretty girl, Cerise. Got any boyfriends yet?
  3626. [23:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha-Of course not!
  3627. [23:17] * [Pyg]Cerise , despite her outburst, keeps her eyes shut.
  3628. [23:17] <[Gtz]Mary> Hahahaha, "Of course not!"? Where have I heard that before, I wonder...
  3629. [23:17] * [Gtz]Mary brings her hands back to Cerise's ears, and tugs on them playfully
  3630. [23:18] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I know why now. It's because of these big ole' ears you got!
  3631. [23:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> Aah! H-hey!
  3632. [23:20] * [Gtz]Mary pulls her in and plants a simple peck on Cerise's forehead
  3633. [23:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...!!
  3634. [23:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey Cerise, I wanna tell you something. It's something my Mom told me before she passed away.
  3635. [23:21] <[Gtz]Mary> "To the world you might be one person, but to one person you might be the world."
  3636. [23:21] * [Pyg]Cerise 's knees become jello for a moment, but she tries to keep herself up.
  3637. [23:23] * [Pyg]Cerise lost her voice.
  3638. [23:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> Umm...
  3639. [23:28] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Hehe, sorry, I guess that is a little corny. But I like it.
  3640. [23:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> No...It sounds good...
  3641. [23:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> I like it.
  3642. [23:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...um...
  3643. [23:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm?
  3644. [23:30] * [Pyg]Cerise 's eyes wander over back to her gun.
  3645. [23:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> I should get back to patrolling. The shift is almost over.
  3646. [23:31] <[Gtz]Mary> ! Oh! I'm sorry, jeez, I forgot all about that...
  3647. [23:31] * [Gtz]Mary back away from Cerise a step
  3648. [23:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Th-thanks though, Mary.
  3649. [23:34] <[Gtz]Mary> Am.. I even allowed to be up here? I sort of left without asking... Darn it, I'm dragging everyone down again...
  3650. [23:35] <[GM]Tetro> [Fade out]
  3651. [23:36] * [Nom]Alexis knocks on Ludwig's door while carrying a silver platter
  3652. [23:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master? Could I tempt you with tea and biscuits this evening?"
  3653. [23:37] * [GM]Ludwig speaks up from behind the door tentatively. "Ah... Alexis? Sure, um... hang on a second."
  3654. [23:38] <[GM]Ludwig> ...okay, come on in.
  3655. [23:39] * [Nom]Alexis lets him/herself in and promptly starts setting up evening tea
  3656. [23:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "Say, master. Are you in the mood for a bit of a chat?"
  3657. [23:40] * [GM]Ludwig isn't visibly present at first, but comes wandering in from a side room after a few seconds, pulling on the shirt of some plain cloth pajamas over his head.
  3658. [23:40] <[GM]Ludwig> A chat...?
  3659. [23:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "I had a question actually. And if you're in an obliging mood today..."
  3660. [23:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm. Well, the least I can do is listen. What is it?
  3661. [23:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "I might get to the point then, master."
  3662. [23:43] * [GM]Ludwig takes a cup and a seat at the table, and motions for Alexis to do the same.
  3663. [23:44] * [Nom]Alexis finishes laying out the goods from the platter, pours Ludwig and him/herself some tea, and takes a seat at the master's bidding. S/he lets some silence set in before she starts.
  3664. [23:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, how much did you tell her?"
  3665. [23:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Tell... who? There are several "her"s around, you know.
  3666. [23:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teilya, master. She knows. Or at least suspects. The only other person who knows is you, master."
  3667. [23:50] * [GM]Ludwig stops, frozen, for several seconds.
  3668. [23:51] <[GM]Ludwig> I haven't told her anything. I haven't told anyone.
  3669. [23:52] <[GM]Ludwig> Are you sure she knows? What happened?
  3670. [23:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well...she called for me. Sam had disappeared and I was looking for her, and Teilya then went quite berserk..."
  3671. [23:53] * [Nom]Alexis falls into a brooding silence
  3672. [23:55] <[GM]Ludwig> Sam had disappeared?
  3673. [23:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "We were getting to the dishes and I must have dozed off a bit because when I turned around she was, er, gone."
  3674. [23:57] * [GM]Ludwig remains silent for a goodly while, except for the tiny noise caused by sipping tea.
  3675. [23:58] * [Nom]Alexis starts to feel fidgety
  3676. [23:58] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll talk to Teilya about it. And Sam.
  3677. [00:00] <[GM]Ludwig> I can tell you for certain, she shouldn't know, and if she suspects, I don't know how, yet.
  3678. [00:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Except...well, I probably didn't doze off, since, well, you know, so..."
  3679. [00:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes... I know.
  3680. [00:01] * [Nom]Alexis is playing nervously with his/her cuffs now
  3681. [00:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "If I let something horrible and let something out and Sam and Teilya saw it then..."
  3682. [00:02] <[GM]Ludwig> ...then we'll deal with that, when and if it happens.
  3683. [00:02] <[GM]Ludwig> Or has happened.
  3684. [00:03] * [Nom]Alexis steels herself
  3685. [00:03] <[GM]Ludwig> I knew... it was a risk, letting you go out there.
  3686. [00:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes. That's why I think it's time for a chat. Just you and I and me. I think it'll do us good. Since hadn't been out for so long. So, if you please, master..."
  3687. [00:05] * [GM]Ludwig blinks and looks up. His voice is very carefully neutral. "Now?"
  3688. [00:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, if you're not in the mood I'll just walk out now and we can pretend I didn't say anything and all will be right in the world I'm sure because in the end It's all about the attitude with which you face life and its challenges and...yeah."
  3689. [00:07] * [GM]Ludwig stands up, crosses over to the bedroom door and locks it, then back to his chair.
  3690. [00:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Whenever you're both ready, then.
  3691. [00:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "As always then, master. You just need to call out."
  3692. [00:09] * [Nom]Alexis holds his/her breath
  3693. [00:15] * [GM]Ludwig stares intensely into Alexis' eyes.
  3694. [00:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Show yourself. I command it.
  3695. [00:18] * [Nom]Alexis closes his/her eyes, and sits back in his/her seat, head lowered. Slowly, s/he breaks out into a soft chuckle.
  3696. [00:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "My, my, my, Master Ludwig. This is quite the surprise. You actually did it. And in the bounds of the mansion too."
  3697. [00:19] * [Nom]Alexis looks up, eyes inflamed with a dark glow
  3698. [00:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "How courageous of you."
  3699. [00:20] <[GM]Ludwig> There is no risk. You have no power here that I do not choose to give you.
  3700. [00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, how fast they learn, these magelings. Yes, yes, you are right. What a shame."
  3701. [00:20] * [Nom]Alexis sighs, and takes a cup of tea
  3702. [00:21] * [GM]Ludwig takes his own, with the air of one forced to entertain a guest they would just as soon cast out.
  3703. [00:22] <[Nom]Alexis> Well, I'm sure you didn't come for small talk. So shall we get down to business?
  3704. [00:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Leave. Her. Alone.
  3705. [00:23] * [Nom]Alexis raises an eyebrow while taking a sip of tea
  3706. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "You'll have to specify, master. It's hard enough to understand mortals as is."
  3707. [00:25] * [GM]Ludwig sets his cup down and starts adding some sugar to the drink.
  3708. [00:25] <[GM]Ludwig> There is nothing to specify. I said before, there are several "her"s around. I meant all of them.
  3709. [00:26] <[GM]Ludwig> You exist here, you are bound here, to serve a single purpose.
  3710. [00:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Tsk, master. We've had this talk before. I've been quite tolerant of your servants, though I don't see why you need so many."
  3711. [00:28] <[GM]Ludwig> What did you do to Sam?
  3712. [00:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Fulfilling my 'one purpose', thank you very much. Pulling my weight, doing my bit for the good of the house."
  3713. [00:29] * [GM]Ludwig 's voice becomes tinged with annoyance, the first sign of emotion he's shown since calling "him" out.
  3714. [00:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Don't feed me that line. I want a straight answer. What did you do to Sam?
  3715. [00:31] * [Nom]Alexis sighs again, frustrated with this little mortal man to which he is bound
  3716. [00:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let's try this again, master. I'll explain how this is supposed to work."
  3717. [00:32] * [Nom]Alexis sets down his tea
  3718. [00:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Now, your servants I tolerate. The Beetlehoven house can't be without peons to do their bidding, no?"
  3719. [00:33] * [Nom]Alexis scoffs
  3720. [00:34] <[Nom]Alexis> "But this...Sam. What is she? You have let her into your house, and she is neither your blood nor your serf. You must have been quite mad."
  3721. [00:36] <[GM]Ludwig> ...perhaps...
  3722. [00:36] * [GM]Ludwig sighs and rallies himself.
  3723. [00:36] <[GM]Ludwig> She is... my responsibility. She belongs here, now.
  3724. [00:37] * [Nom]Alexis stares in disbelief
  3725. [00:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "What? You've taken her in? As some kind of...of.../guest/? By the thousand hells, master, you're out of your mind. What kind of situation do you think you are in, to be luxuriously inviting more to your house? You're fighting a war! The end is on your very doorstep and you're turning your fortress into some kind of animal shelter."
  3726. [00:40] * [GM]Ludwig smirks.
  3727. [00:40] <[GM]Ludwig> This may be a hard fact for you to swallow, coming from a mortal such as myself, but you truly understand practically nothing.
  3728. [00:41] * [Nom]Alexis snorts in disgust
  3729. [00:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Have it your way, then master. Go and take in every wretchling that comes begging for your benevolence. See how much you can spare before you break."
  3730. [00:43] * [GM]Ludwig laughs darkly.
  3731. [00:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Nevertheless, master, my hands are quite tied on this. There are rules, protocols, /responses/ that must be followed. Rules that, I must add, you were quite eager to invoke when you needed your enemies destroyed."
  3732. [00:46] <[GM]Ludwig> I know the rules well enough.
  3733. [00:47] <[GM]Ludwig> You are a weapon. That is your purpose.
  3734. [00:48] <[GM]Ludwig> To destroy my enemies is why you are allowed to exist at all.
  3735. [00:48] * [GM]Ludwig laughs again.
  3736. [00:48] * [Nom]Alexis rolls his eyes
  3737. [00:48] <[GM]Ludwig> "The end is on our doorstep", you said.
  3738. [00:48] <[GM]Ludwig> "Take in every wretch you can", you said.
  3739. [00:49] <[GM]Ludwig> This shows just how little you understand.
  3740. [00:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, yes, master, I'm aware of your cruel sense of humour. Let's pretend that I am just another of your fellow mortal simpletons and understand absolutely nothing. But this is another issue entirely."
  3741. [00:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "A weapon I may be, but there are very specific ways with which I am wielded. Under your command is one."
  3742. [00:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "At the defense of your house, is, for better or worse, another."
  3743. [00:51] * [Nom]Alexis clears his throat
  3744. [00:52] <[GM]Ludwig> I did not say you were mistaken, to consider her a threat to this house. I told you to leave her alone in spite of it.
  3745. [00:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "What /you/ need to understand, master, is that this 'Sam' you have so capriciously taken in is under no protection of this house. She is, shall we say, not covered. The eviction response comes quite automatically."
  3746. [00:53] <[GM]Ludwig> The end came to my doorstep... and I gave it a bed.
  3747. [00:53] * [Nom]Alexis sighs again
  3748. [00:53] <[GM]Ludwig> She is covered, you simpleton. I am covering her.
  3749. [00:53] <[GM]Ludwig> I cannot put it more plainly than that.
  3750. [00:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "Fine, master. She is under your protection. I will leave her well alone. But the demands of your forefathers were very exact. /My/ protection extends to your house and your kin. Nothing more, nothing less. Right now, Sam is neither. You can't personally vouch for her safety forever."
  3751. [00:56] <[GM]Ludwig> I doubt I shall have to for long.
  3752. [00:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh? Are you planning to induct her, master?"
  3753. [00:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ahem"
  3754. [00:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "Marry her or something?"
  3755. [00:57] * [GM]Ludwig chuckles and shakes his head.
  3756. [00:57] <[GM]Ludwig> You don't understand. But it is not required that you do so. Only that you do as you are told.
  3757. [00:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm hurt, master. After all I've done for you and your line."
  3758. [00:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Hurt.
  3759. [00:59] * [GM]Ludwig takes his turn to scoff.
  3760. [00:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Coming from her, I would believe it. From you?
  3761. [01:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Bah, have it your way then. Your line is doomed even with my help."
  3762. [01:03] * [GM]Ludwig finishes his tea and stares into the empty cup.
  3763. [01:04] <[GM]Ludwig> It is within my power... to dissolve your contract.
  3764. [01:04] * [Nom]Alexis raises an eyebrow again
  3765. [01:04] <[GM]Ludwig> To just let you go.
  3766. [01:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "And is it in your power to survive after that as well? And have you pondered on the consequences of such a step? The repercussions on mind, body and soul? Your father was twice he man you were, even if he was a spineless cowards, and even he underestimated the eldritch powers that scribed our contract.."
  3767. [01:06] * [GM]Ludwig moves suddenly, quickly, slamming the cup back into its saucer.
  3768. [01:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Damn it, I don't have anything else I can offer you but freedom!
  3769. [01:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "Do you think it so simple? Don't you care at all what happens to us? To her? So you even know /what/ will happen to her?"
  3770. [01:07] * [Nom]Alexis composes himself again
  3771. [01:08] <[Nom]Alexis> "It seems I've overstayed my welcome. Goodnight, Master Ludwig."
  3772. [01:10] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't say anything, staring down at the fists gripping his knees, shaking with emotion.
  3773. [01:10] * [Nom]Alexis straightens her dress and make a soft coughing noise
  3774. [01:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, it's a shame master. I think Sam is a good match for you. Mary would be so heartbroken though."
  3775. [01:13] * [GM]Ludwig breaks down at - her words? just the sound of her voice? - and collapses from his chair, sobbing, hard and often.
  3776. [01:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, um, I'll let you have some quiet time, master. I'll see you in the morn."
  3777. [01:15] <[GM]Ludwig> N... no...
  3778. [01:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Please don't...
  3779. [01:16] * [Nom]Alexis stops in the middle of tidying up the remnants of tea
  3780. [01:16] * [GM]Ludwig struggles for composition, pulling himself up to lean on the back of the chair.
  3781. [01:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Is there something else you needed, master?"
  3782. [01:17] <[GM]Ludwig> I...
  3783. [01:17] <[GM]Ludwig> I j-just...
  3784. [01:17] <[GM]Ludwig> ...don't want to be alone, right now.
  3785. [01:18] * [GM]Ludwig fidgets a bit before looking up at the maid.
  3786. [01:18] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig a worried glance, but normalises quickly
  3787. [01:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Miss Alexis, even considering my position, it is almost inexcusably forward of me to ask this, but...
  3788. [01:19] <[GM]Ludwig> ...would you please sleep with me tonight?
  3789. [01:19] * [GM]Ludwig blinks, seeming to just realize what he's said.
  3790. [01:19] * [Nom]Alexis gives the slightest hint of a pause
  3791. [01:19] <[GM]Ludwig> And none of your jokes. That's not what I meant.
  3792. [01:20] * [Nom]Alexis smirks
  3793. [01:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, you really were asking for it."
  3794. [01:21] * [Nom]Alexis 's smile softens
  3795. [01:21] * [GM]Ludwig can't help but laugh. It feels good to do so, a release of tension.
  3796. [01:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Very well, master, I'll stay up with you until you are asleep."
  3797. [01:21] * [GM]Ludwig exhales one long breath.
  3798. [01:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Th... thank you, Alexis.
  3799. [01:22] * [Nom]Alexis rears up in mock formality
  3800. [01:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "So, master, should I tell you a story, or sing a lullaby?"
  3801. [01:24] * [GM]Ludwig shuffles over to his bed, too drained to do anything but take the question seriously.
  3802. [01:24] <[GM]Ludwig> If you like.
  3803. [01:25] <[GM]Ludwig> For myself, just... it's enough for you just to be here.
  3804. [01:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Very well, master. I'll be here if you need me."
  3805. [01:26] * [Nom]Alexis prepares a seat next to Ludwig's bed, and starts humming
  3806. [01:26] <[GM]Ludwig> ...no...
  3807. [01:27] * [GM]Ludwig blushes a little as he pulls the covers up to his neck and pats a space next to him on the bed.
  3808. [01:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Here... please?
  3809. [01:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ooh. I hope someone gets the wrong idea."
  3810. [01:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Hey, none of your jokes. I said so.
  3811. [01:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Alright, alright. That was the last one tonight, I promise."
  3812. [01:30] * [Nom]Alexis complies, and resumes humming some old folk tune, long forgotten by civilisation.
  3813. [01:30] * [GM]Ludwig closes his eyes and drifts away...
  3814. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> [Scene!]
  3815. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> [NEXT WEEK]
  3816. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> [SHIT BLOWS UP]
  3817. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> [AND OTHER SHIT HAPPENS TOO]
  3818. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> [MAYBE]
  3819. [01:34] <[GM]Ludwig> [DON'T MISS IT!]
  3820. [01:34] <[Nom]Alexis> [ANY ONE OF THESE MAIDS COULD DIE]
  3821. [01:34] <[Gtz]Mary> [bullshit.]
  3822.  
  3823.  
  3824.  
  3825.  
  3826.  
  3827.  
  3828.  
  3829.  
  3830.  
  3831. @@---
  3832. @@=====
  3833. @@Session Seven
  3834. @@=====
  3835. @@---
  3836.  
  3837. [23:37] <[Gtz]Mary> [I lost my hat ;_;]
  3838. [23:38] <[GM]Tetro> [SO ANYWAY]
  3839. [23:38] <[GM]Tetro> [Uh... what, now?]
  3840. [23:44] <[GM]Tetro> [SO ANYWAY]
  3841. [23:45] <[Gtz]Mary> [umm... C&M came back in, fetched Sam, and are now in cute bed clothes?]
  3842. [23:46] <[GM]Tetro> [Sure, why not.]
  3843. [23:48] <[Gtz]Mary> [Okay, on three. One, two...]
  3844. [23:48] * [Gtz]Mary sits quietly in her room in a white tank top and pair of shorts, reading her little brail bible and waiting on Cerise and Sam
  3845. [23:49] * [Gtz]Mary on a bed or something, even
  3846. [23:51] <[Kly]Sam> Ah, it's kind of dark in here, isn't it?
  3847. [23:52] * [Pyg]Cerise sits at the foot of the bed cleaning her sniper rifle with a rag.
  3848. [23:52] <[Gtz]Mary> Is it? I can never tell. Did you brush your teeth?
  3849. [23:53] * [Gtz]Mary puts the book down
  3850. [23:53] <[Gtz]Mary> Did you fix that bandage?
  3851. [23:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> Uh...Ehehe, kinda'...
  3852. [23:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Kinda'? I don't believe that. Go do it right now.
  3853. [23:57] * [Pyg]Cerise sighs dejectedly.
  3854. [23:57] * [Kly]Sam stands by, not wanting to intervene.
  3855. [23:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> It won't open while I'm sleeping, Mary! I barely move in my bed.
  3856. [00:01] <[Gtz]Mary> I mean it, Cerise! You have to take care of yourself, or else you'll end up like me. It won't take you but a moment to put on a fresh bandage, so please, go on and do it.
  3857. [00:03] * [Pyg]Cerise , defeated, puffs up one cheek as she gets up on her feet to leave the room to grab bandages at the infirmary.
  3858. [00:05] * [Kly]Sam gets out of the way of the door
  3859. [00:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Sam, is that you? Come on in, take a seat.
  3860. [00:07] <[Gtz]Mary> There's something I want to talk to you about, when Cerise gets back.
  3861. [00:08] <[Kly]Sam> Where should I sit?
  3862. [00:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Wherever you want.
  3863. [00:10] * [Gtz]Mary doesn't make any sort of indirect contact, instead being preoccupied with her braille bible once more
  3864. [00:10] * [Kly]Sam nods, and takes a seat on the other bed
  3865. [00:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey Sam. What do you like?
  3866. [00:11] <[Kly]Sam> What do you mean?
  3867. [00:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Do you like flowers, chocolates, puppies, music, anything like that. What do you enjoy, more or less.
  3868. [00:15] <[Kly]Sam> I like... hm.
  3869. [00:15] * [Kly]Sam thinks for a bit, and then responds
  3870. [00:15] <[Kly]Sam> That's a really hard question, you know? I like lots of things...
  3871. [00:16] * [Gtz]Mary smiles
  3872. [00:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, that's good!
  3873. [00:18] <[Kly]Sam> What about you?
  3874. [00:20] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I like lots of things too. I really enjoy classic literature and poetry, but due to my disability and how hard it is to get anything in braille, it's a difficult hobby to pursue.
  3875. [00:20] <[Kly]Sam> ...disability?
  3876. [00:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm-hm, I appreciate your politesse, but surely you've realized I'm blind.
  3877. [00:26] <[Kly]Sam> O-oh, I guess that makes sense...
  3878. [00:30] * [Kly]Sam fidgets a bit
  3879. [00:32] * [Pyg]Cerise arrives in front of the infirmary doors. She wonders if its occupant is asleep.
  3880. [00:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> (...Should I knock?)
  3881. [00:33] * [Pyg]Cerise , after much hesitation, decides to try the knob.
  3882. [00:36] * [Pyg]Cerise manages to open it. No one in here then. She spots the cabinet upon entering and grabs a bandage and antiseptic proceeding to replace her old bandages.
  3883. [00:37] <[Gtz]Mary> But it's good! If you enjoy things, then you must still keep some of your memory.
  3884. [00:40] * [Kly]Sam sighs.
  3885. [00:40] <[Kly]Sam> I... it's annoying. I can remember what, but not why.
  3886. [00:41] <[Kly]Sam> ...sorry if that's confusing.
  3887. [00:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm. Hold that thought until Cerise comes back, I want her to hear this too.
  3888. [00:41] * [Pyg]Cerise returns to her room just in time.
  3889. [00:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> I heard my name.
  3890. [00:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh! I didn't even hear you coming. You took your boots off, didn't you?
  3891. [00:43] * [Gtz]Mary closes her book and puts it under the bed.
  3892. [00:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha- Mary, you act like I don't stay in this room!
  3893. [00:45] * [Pyg]Cerise looks down at her bare sock-wearing feet and looks back at Mary pouting.
  3894. [00:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm? What're you talking about? It's just hard for me to hear you if you're not wearing shoes.
  3895. [00:46] <[Gtz]Mary> I can usually tell who's who by the stride of their step, but if they're not wearing something on their feet, well, I just have to make lucky guesses I suppose.
  3896. [00:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Master's steps are small and frequent, Alexis's are very sharp, Teilya's are the longest and usually accompanied by some other sound, like humming or something. I can always tell you by the boots, they make a very thick, definitive sound.
  3897. [00:50] <[Gtz]Mary> And I can tell yours because they don't sound like anyone else's!
  3898. [00:51] * [Gtz]Mary casts a smile to the bed across from her
  3899. [00:52] * [Kly]Sam giggles a bit.
  3900. [00:52] <[Kly]Sam> That's amazing.
  3901. [00:52] * [Pyg]Cerise 's heart seems to stop for a moment. Really, this girl's talent to make one red as a tomato knows no bounds.
  3902. [00:55] <[Gtz]Mary> My ears have to be my eyes. And when they can't be, I make friends of those with them~
  3903. [00:56] * [Pyg]Cerise looks at her bed which is currently occupied by Mary.
  3904. [00:57] * [Pyg]Cerise she uneasily makes her way toward it and sits on the edge.
  3905. [00:58] * [Gtz]Mary scoots over. Not away from Cerise, but towards.
  3906. [00:58] <[Gtz]Mary> So anyway. Sam, come sit here a moment.
  3907. [00:59] * [Gtz]Mary pats her hand on the only remaining empty edge of the bed.
  3908. [01:00] <[Kly]Sam> O-oh, ok...
  3909. [01:00] * [Kly]Sam shifts beds
  3910. [01:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wh-what are we doing, Mary?
  3911. [01:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Now. Back to the topic about your memory. One thing I want to let you know is that you have a choice to make. You can either strive to remember, or you can forget it all now and begin anew.
  3912. [01:04] <[Gtz]Mary> You got all the time you need to make that choice, and whatever you do, we'll certainly help you in anyway we can.
  3913. [01:04] * [Gtz]Mary finds Cerise's hand and gives it a squeeze.
  3914. [01:06] * [Pyg]Cerise jumps a little at Mary's touch, with steam probably spurting out of her ears, if such a thing was possible.
  3915. [01:08] <[Kly]Sam> I'm really not sure what I want to do... but thanks.
  3916. [01:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Like I said, we'll do whatever we can for you. However, there is one thing I'd like to say...
  3917. [01:13] <[Gtz]Mary> That man back where Cerise and them found you... Whoever he was, he loved you. I think that's worth remembering. Though, I'm certain some memories will hurt, with them you will carry his love, and that will make you stronger.
  3918. [01:16] <[Gtz]Mary> But, the choice is yours. I'll support you, no matter what it is.
  3919. [01:18] * [Kly]Sam nods, and quickly realizes her error.
  3920. [01:19] <[Kly]Sam> I... thanks.
  3921. [01:20] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm sorry, it's a lot for you to think about in one day.
  3922. [01:22] <[Kly]Sam> ...yeah.
  3923. [01:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> Your mind should be clearer. I guess we should be sleeping now.
  3924. [01:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> [*clearer in the morning]
  3925. [01:27] * [Pyg]Cerise lets out a yawn.
  3926. [01:27] <[Kly]Sam> A-ah, right. I am pretty tired.
  3927. [01:28] * [Kly]Sam gets up, and heads over towards the other bed.
  3928. [01:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah, me too. You sleep on the bed over there, if you need any additional blankets I laid them at the foot of the bed.
  3929. [01:29] <[Kly]Sam> I'm not exactly looking forward to going back to sleep, but...
  3930. [01:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> We'll be right here when you wake up!
  3931. [01:30] * [Pyg]Cerise gives Sam a reassuring smile.
  3932. [01:30] * [Kly]Sam nods, and lets out a laugh.
  3933. [01:30] <[Kly]Sam> Right.
  3934. [01:32] * [Pyg]Cerise starts to fidget at the idea that she and Mary will be sharing a bed for the night.
  3935. [01:33] * [Gtz]Mary simply smiles. Cerise's reassurance strengthens more than one.
  3936. [01:34] <[Gtz]Mary> *yawn* ahumm... Cerise, do you want the inside or outside? I got church in the morning, so I think I'll take the outs, if you don't mind.
  3937. [01:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> Th-that's fine...
  3938. [01:35] <[GM]Tetro> [zzzzzzzzzzzzz]
  3939. [01:35] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, I always sleep close to the wall anyway...
  3940. [01:36] <[GM]Tetro> [I guess]
  3941. [01:37] <[Gtz]Mary> Okay then.
  3942. [01:37] * [Gtz]Mary pulls back the covers, letting Cerise slip in before she does.
  3943. [01:37] * [Kly]Sam gets into her bed.
  3944. [01:37] <[Kly]Sam> Good night, everyone.
  3945. [01:37] <[Gtz]Mary> Good night, Sam!
  3946. [01:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> 'Night.
  3947. [01:38] * [Pyg]Cerise hesitates for a bit but gets under the covers and scoots enough to leave room for Mary.
  3948. [01:39] * [Gtz]Mary slips under the covers, turning to face Cerise
  3949. [01:40] * [Pyg]Cerise is facing the well, feeling to embarrassed to face Mary.
  3950. [01:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> [*wall]
  3951. [01:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmhmhm, this is kind of fun. It reminds me of when we used to have sleepovers, my dad would bring out this big, soft mat out of the closet, along with about a dozen pillows and bean bag chairs and all sorts of stuff. We'd all play games, and fall asleep on that thing. It was fun...
  3952. [01:42] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm...That does sound fun.
  3953. [01:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> I don't think I had a chance to do that before civilization ended.
  3954. [01:47] <[Gtz]Mary> ...oh. That's right. I'm sorry... I sometimes forget you're so young.
  3955. [01:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> To be honest, I remember more things from the last five years than before that.
  3956. [01:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> Heh...Must've been all the hard times trying to get used to a knew way of life.
  3957. [01:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah... I really am sorry, though.
  3958. [01:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, it was only difficult for...about a year, I think.
  3959. [01:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> Then my big brother joined us!
  3960. [01:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I've been meaning to ask about him. What's his name?
  3961. [02:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> It's Alexander.
  3962. [02:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> We found him dying by the side of the road and decided to help him. I think he was around your age when we first met him.
  3963. [02:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> He was so grateful he decided to stay with us. He knew how to work with guns, so he became our bodyguard and eventually became part of the family.
  3964. [02:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...I admired him. How he managed to stay out in the wilderness fending for himself, all alone for so long.
  3965. [02:06] * [Pyg]Cerise chuckles nervously.
  3966. [02:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> This...is where it kind of gets embarrassing...
  3967. [02:07] * [Gtz]Mary I'm listening, and I won't laugh unless I'm supposed to.
  3968. [02:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> I guess, I...was kinda'.... in love with him--Aah! I can't believe I'm telling this to someone else!
  3969. [02:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Cerise! That's fantastic! Oh, I can't wait to meet him, he must be a really great guy. My little Cerise, in l-o-v-e~
  3970. [02:12] * [Pyg]Cerise takes a moment to get over the embarrassment.
  3971. [02:13] * [Gtz]Mary shifts in the bed to move a little closer to Cerise
  3972. [02:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> Was, Mary...
  3973. [02:14] * [Gtz]Mary suddenly feels all her exuberance drain from her, and backs off a little bit.
  3974. [02:14] <[Gtz]Mary> O-....oh... I'm sorry, you don't have to talk about it...Really...
  3975. [02:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...actually told him how I felt. You know, being a naive little girl and all...
  3976. [02:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> I remember...He just smiled gently and patted my head, saying he was flattered, but he could only see me as his little sister.
  3977. [02:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> Then I ran off, angry at him. Haha, like I said, I was being a naive little girl. I finally experienced my first heartbreak.
  3978. [02:19] * [Gtz]Mary brings an arm around Cerise's chest, pulling her into a tight squeeze.
  3979. [02:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> When I was done crying, I made a promise to myself...
  3980. [02:22] <[Pyg]Cerise> I promised I'd become strong, just like him. I already mustered the courage to tell him my feelings, so why stop there? I would become a strong girl he would regret turning down! Haha...
  3981. [02:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> We laughed together when I told him that. And, as a gift...
  3982. [02:23] * [Pyg]Cerise lifts her head a little to look over at her rifle leaning by the wall.
  3983. [02:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...He gave that to me, his favorite rifle.
  3984. [02:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> He taught me how to use it and everything.
  3985. [02:27] * [Gtz]Mary simply listens, giving Cerise's arm a soft squeeze every now and then.
  3986. [02:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> Eventually, we reached one of our stops: this fortress. I told my parents I wanted to find work here, they were worried at first, but Alex helped me convince them I could do it.
  3987. [02:27] * [Pyg]Cerise turns around to look at Mary's face.
  3988. [02:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> Then, well, haha, you know the rest.
  3989. [02:28] * [Gtz]Mary tries to catch a tear before it rolls, but she's too slow
  3990. [02:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> I was scared at first and I didn't think I'd fit in...
  3991. [02:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm. So, that's why you're so strong... That strength, that courage, that will is something I've always admired in you.
  3992. [02:31] * [Pyg]Cerise thinks for a moment, before swallowing air and nervously lays a hand on Mary's cheek.
  3993. [02:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> Th-thank you for talking to me...
  3994. [02:31] * [Gtz]Mary puts on a sad smile, and gently grips Cerise's hand.
  3995. [02:33] <[Pyg]Cerise> And also, I...
  3996. [02:34] * [Pyg]Cerise shakes her head.
  3997. [02:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...Nevermind...
  3998. [02:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise...
  3999. [02:35] * [Pyg]Cerise pulls her hand back.
  4000. [02:36] <[Gtz]Mary> It's unfortunate that he couldn't return your love the way you wanted him to, but even I can see that he loved you with all his heart, even if it broke yours. But don't worry. As long as you have all the pieces, you can put it back together, and be whole again.
  4001. [02:37] <[Gtz]Mary> ...My heart is... in many pieces. But that's okay, because I keep those who hold those pieces close to my heart.
  4002. [02:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> It's...been whole again, Mary.
  4003. [02:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...I don't mind giving part of mine to you.
  4004. [02:38] * [Kly]Sam zzzzzzzz
  4005. [02:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmhm. I've always had it, Cerise. Just as you've had mine.
  4006. [02:39] * [Gtz]Mary reaches for her cross around Cerise's neck, but can't quite find it...
  4007. [02:41] <[Gtz]Mary> And you can have more than a piece. I love you Cerise, with all my heart.
  4008. [02:43] * [Pyg]Cerise is shocked for a moment, a sudden numbness passing through her body and suddenly a warmth. She knows Mary can't mean it the way she wanted it to, but it still moves her all the same. So, the tears began to flow.
  4009. [02:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> M-Mary...*sniff*
  4010. [02:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Cerise... Come on now, girl...
  4011. [02:47] * [Gtz]Mary brings Cerise into a full hug, holding her against her shoulder, rubbing her on her back, trying to think of something to say, but no words will come.
  4012. [02:50] * [Pyg]Cerise only sobs harder, though she does try to keep it down, aware ther aren't alone in the room.
  4013. [02:52] <[Gtz]Mary> ...You really are quite silly, you know that? Telling me these things, pulling the waterworks, you're even getting me to cry too... What have you done to me, my silly little Cerise... What have you done...
  4014. [02:54] * [Pyg]Cerise tries to say "I'm sorry," but only more restrained sobbing comes out.
  4015. [02:55] * [Pyg]Cerise sniffles loudly, trying to calm down.
  4016. [02:56] * [Pyg]Cerise pulls away from Mary, wiping her eyes with the sleeve of her dress shirt.
  4017. [02:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Go ahead, let it all out. It's good to cry, sometimes. That way, you won't cry when you really, really don't want to. So, we'll just cry then.
  4018. [03:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise... You've been so good to me. I just wanted to pay that back to you. I tried to think of what I could do for you, what I could teach, what I could give... But I realized there's nothing I can teach you. The best thing I could ever do is be your friend, just as you've been mine. Thanks, Cerise.
  4019. [03:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> A...friend, huh?
  4020. [03:07] * [Pyg]Cerise Cerise faces Mary again, a trail of tears still on her face, she speaks but her voice is still a little wobbly.
  4021. [03:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary...I don't know if you'll ever forgive me, but...
  4022. [03:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> /me lays a hand on Mary's shoulder.
  4023. [03:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...I'm sorry.
  4024. [03:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> /me leans forward, bringing her lips to Mary's.
  4025. [03:08] * [Gtz]Mary eyes pop open in surprise, but she does not flinch.
  4026. [03:10] * [Gtz]Mary closes her hand around Cerise's head and her ear, and gently draws back after a long moment.
  4027. [03:11] * [Pyg]Cerise the heat of the moment fades, and she realizes what just happened.
  4028. [03:12] * [Gtz]Mary laughs, quietly and dryly.
  4029. [03:12] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...Um...
  4030. [03:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Ceris-s-s-s-e.... I've been such a fool...
  4031. [03:12] * [Pyg]Cerise sits up quickly.
  4032. [03:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> No...I...
  4033. [03:13] * [Pyg]Cerise moves to the edge of the bed and hops off.
  4034. [03:14] * [Gtz]Mary tears still come down, slowly
  4035. [03:14] * [Pyg]Cerise puts her skirt on and shoulders her rifle.
  4036. [03:14] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm-...I'm-...I'm sorry... Wh-what're you doing?
  4037. [03:14] * [Pyg]Cerise mouths a very weak "I'm sorry" as she steps outside of the room.
  4038. [03:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise...Cerise, Wait!
  4039. [03:16] * [Gtz]Mary gets up and follows after as quickly as she can, not particularly worried about hurting herself
  4040. [03:16] * [Pyg]Cerise walks away...somewhere else. She doesn't care where.
  4041. [03:17] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise!
  4042. [03:17] * [Pyg]Cerise her feet get stuck as she hears her name.
  4043. [03:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> (Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! What the hell are you doing, Cerise!)
  4044. [03:18] * [Gtz]Mary follows quickly after Cerise in the direction she heard her go, but soon slips and falls, cushioning her way down with her elbows
  4045. [03:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> (That was wrong! And you know it!)
  4046. [03:19] <[Gtz]Mary> Agh!... Cerise! Wait!
  4047. [03:19] * [Pyg]Cerise 's thoughts are interrupted with the sound of something falling down the hall.
  4048. [03:19] * [Pyg]Cerise hesitates, biting her lip.
  4049. [03:19] * [Gtz]Mary gets up, and keeps going
  4050. [03:20] * [Pyg]Cerise finally decides to turn around and go back the way she came.
  4051. [03:21] * [Gtz]Mary doesn't let up, quickening her pace with each step
  4052. [03:21] * [Pyg]Cerise hears the stumbling footsteps getting closer, urging her to go a little faster.
  4053. [03:22] * [Pyg]Cerise turns a corner to spot a stumbling Mary.
  4054. [03:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> You...idiot...!
  4055. [03:23] * [Pyg]Cerise runs over to Mary, lest she trip over herself again.
  4056. [03:23] * [Gtz]Mary fucking tackles Cerise to the ground.
  4057. [03:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> Aah!
  4058. [03:24] <[Gtz]Mary> haah...haah...haah... I'm not... Gonna let you... get away.
  4059. [03:24] <[Gtz]Mary> That's why... That's why... That's why...
  4060. [03:25] * [Gtz]Mary mumbles something to herself, does a quick sign of the cross, clutches Cerise, and kisses her.
  4061. [03:27] * [Pyg]Cerise is caught off guard for a moment, but then embraces Mary, returning her kiss.
  4062. [03:29] * [Gtz]Mary finally breaks the kiss, bringing herself and Cerise into a sitting position, and simply leans her forehead against Cerise's.
  4063. [03:30] <[Gtz]Mary> *sigh*... Cerise...
  4064. [03:31] * [Pyg]Cerise can only look down on the floor despite the sense of a heavy burden being lifted from her.
  4065. [03:31] <[Gtz]Mary> What are you, crazy?! Are you trying to give me a heart attack or something? Cerise, when you left just now... I felt a way I haven't since I've been here. You big dope, what do you think I could do without you...
  4066. [03:33] * [Pyg]Cerise is still quiet. She sniffs. Sounds like the tears are coming on again.
  4067. [03:33] * [Gtz]Mary just holds Cerise, and starts that dry, body-shaking silent laughter that sounds an awful lot like sobbing
  4068. [03:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm sorry...
  4069. [03:35] <[Gtz]Mary> ha-..ha-..ha-..ha-.... Y-yeah, mmme too.
  4070. [03:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> I loved you all this time...But I guess, deep down, I still feared being rejected again...
  4071. [03:40] <[Gtz]Mary> ha-..ha-..hah... You're right though, I am an idiot. I never realized... Not until now. I knew you loved me, but I didn't know it was like this... I tried so hard to relate to you, to comfort, to understand your feelings... But I ended up missing the biggest one you had for me. I guess, hah, I'm blind in more ways than one...
  4072. [03:41] * [Gtz]Mary starts giggling uncontrollably, her whole body shaking
  4073. [03:41] <[Gtz]Mary> I, I, I guess it's true what they sa, say, isn't it?
  4074. [03:42] * [Pyg]Cerise manages to crack a smile, despite a few tears rolling down her face.
  4075. [03:43] * [Gtz]Mary leans back and wipes the tears off of Cerise's face, smiling through her own
  4076. [03:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> W-we should go back...I guess.
  4077. [03:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh... hah... okay... yeah... haha, I guess we'd have a lot of explaining to do if anyone saw this, right?
  4078. [03:45] <[Gtz]Mary> But, that's okay I guess.
  4079. [03:46] * [Gtz]Mary breathes slowly, but heavily
  4080. [03:46] * [Pyg]Cerise gets up on her feet, helping Mary up as she does.
  4081. [03:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh... Maybe you'll have to carry me after all, hahaha...
  4082. [03:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> You can't walk?
  4083. [03:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I can try... *sniff* Oh, Lord...
  4084. [03:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> All right, get on my back.
  4085. [03:49] <[Gtz]Mary> No, no, I can make it, I can make it... yeah...
  4086. [03:50] <[Gtz]Mary> ...As long as you don't let go, I can make it.
  4087. [03:50] * [Pyg]Cerise makes sure her hold on Mary is secure.
  4088. [03:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Okay, let's go.
  4089. [03:50] <[GM]Tetro> Ludwig wants Mary, Cerise wants Mary, Mary wants Cerise, Teilya wants Cerise...
  4090. [03:50] <[GM]Tetro> [GAAAAAAAH WRONG CHANNEL RETCON FUCK FUCK]
  4091. [03:52] * [Gtz]Mary saunters slowly with Cerise, not really thinking about where she's going.
  4092. [03:54] * [Pyg]Cerise eventually leads her back to their room.
  4093. [03:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> We're here.
  4094. [03:57] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Shoot. Forgot about Sam... You think she heard any of that?
  4095. [03:57] * [Pyg]Cerise sits Mary down on the bed and let's go of her momentarily to replace her rifle back by the wall.
  4096. [03:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> I hope not...
  4097. [03:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ehehe...That'd be kinda' embarassing.
  4098. [03:58] * [Gtz]Mary moves in, and her head falls to the pillow with a thud. Or maybe a "poof".
  4099. [03:58] <[Gtz]Mary> hahaha...yeah... kinda....
  4100. [03:59] * [Pyg]Cerise moves to the foot of the bed and crawls over to her side.
  4101. [04:01] * [Pyg]Cerise lays down, staring at the ceiling.
  4102. [04:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...S-sweet dreams, Mary.
  4103. [04:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm-hm... You know you're in love when you don't want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.
  4104. [04:06] * [Gtz]Mary curls up next to Cerise, and pulls the covers up.
  4105. [04:07] * [Pyg]Cerise sighs happily as she closes her eyes. The days events finally catching up to her.
  4106. [04:07] <[GM]Tetro> [Fade to black?]
  4107. [04:07] <[Gtz]Mary> [Fade to white.]
  4108. [04:07] <[GM]Tetro> [:>]
  4109. [04:07] <[GM]Tetro> [Day 3 End, is pretty much what I'm getting at.]
  4110. [04:08] <[Gtz]Mary> [boy, did it.]
  4111.  
  4112.  
  4113.  
  4114.  
  4115.  
  4116.  
  4117.  
  4118.  
  4119.  
  4120. @@---
  4121. @@=====
  4122. @@Session Eight
  4123. @@=====
  4124. @@---
  4125.  
  4126. [20:54] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sunday.]
  4127. [20:55] <[Gtz]Mary> [SUNDAY SUNDAY SUNDAAAAAY]
  4128. [20:56] <[GM]Ludwig> [WE TURN THE BEETLEOVEN FORTRESS INTO A GIANT MUD PIT]
  4129. [20:56] <[Nom]Alexis> [As if it wasn't already]
  4130. [20:56] <[GM]Ludwig> [o u]
  4131. [20:57] <[GM]Ludwig> [So, where to first?]
  4132. [21:00] * [GM]Ludwig rises early, bathes, and puts on his best clothes. Nothing too showy, though. He's learned his lesson from last time. Still... it's Sunday.
  4133. [21:00] * [Nom]Alexis is in the kitchen, distilling something that was probably coffee
  4134. [21:01] * [Nom]Alexis thinks blending is a mixture of art and science, and approaches the chore in an appropriate fashion
  4135. [21:02] * [Gtz]Mary is donning her Sunday's best, which happens to be the same as her Monday-through-Saturday's best
  4136. [21:03] * [Pyg]Cerise is out on her usual morning patrol, but with a bit of a spring in her step and slight smile on her face.
  4137. [21:06] * [PB]Teilya is diligently cleaning the bathroom, especially the bathtub. The tub had been through several...interesting encounters, and so she thought it deserves some special dedication from her to make it the best tub in this ruined world.
  4138. [21:07] * [Gtz]Mary sighs heavily. The day has only begun, and she already feels tired.
  4139. [21:07] * [GM]Ludwig leaves his room and heads out for the fortress chapel. He has a date to keep.
  4140. [21:08] * [Nom]Alexis is rather surprised everyone is awake, having gotten used to enjoying quiet mornings. But she takes the energy of Sunday morn as a positive sign. She hopes the master hasn't left yet...
  4141. [21:09] <[GM]Ludwig> *grrrmblrr*
  4142. [21:09] * [GM]Ludwig blushes and glances around, hoping nobody was around to hear that.
  4143. [21:09] * [Nom]Alexis ambushes Ludwig with a platter of breakfast
  4144. [21:10] * [GM]Ludwig sniffs the air.
  4145. [21:10] <[GM]Ludwig> Something smells good...
  4146. [21:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, master, were you just going to slip out in that state? Can't do devotion on an empty stomach you know."
  4147. [21:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Hah?!
  4148. [21:11] * [GM]Ludwig apparently wasn't expecting company.
  4149. [21:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh... Alexis. Good morning.
  4150. [21:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Were you bringing me breakfast?
  4151. [21:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "Were you not expecting it? I would think eating was quite routine for you. Still, if you decided to drop the habit it would save me a lot of work."
  4152. [21:13] <[GM]Ludwig> No, no, you're right. Attend to the body before the spirit. I think that's a saying, anyway.
  4153. [21:13] * [GM]Ludwig looks down the hall and points.
  4154. [21:14] <[GM]Ludwig> There should be a table down in there.
  4155. [21:14] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, falling off the bandwagon so quickly? Ah, that's weak, master. Though I don't blame you; this bacon is quite addictive, if I do say so myself."
  4156. [21:16] * [Nom]Alexis carries the platter off to set up in a more suitable location
  4157. [21:16] * [GM]Ludwig follows behind eagerly.
  4158. [21:17] * [Nom]Alexis makes some small talk while she's working
  4159. [21:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "So, what has gotten you so excited on a Sunday morning, master?"
  4160. [21:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh... nothing. Just... church.
  4161. [21:20] * [Gtz]Mary Is too troubled to think about food. She leaves her room and slowly heads out to the Fortress's church, counting her steps and feeling for familiar spots along the way.
  4162. [21:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Really now? So much fervor so suddenly? That's quite interesting, master."
  4163. [21:20] * [Nom]Alexis makes an act of pondering on the matter
  4164. [21:20] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... I sort of promised someone I'd be there today.
  4165. [21:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, that's right. A special someone, I would imagine."
  4166. [21:21] * [Nom]Alexis smiles whimsically
  4167. [21:21] * [GM]Ludwig smiles as well.
  4168. [21:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, indeed.
  4169. [21:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Needing a bit of a miracle too, I expect"
  4170. [21:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm?
  4171. [21:23] * [Nom]Alexis swivels around to face Ludwig as if having just made a great decision
  4172. [21:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's it, master. I'm coming with you."
  4173. [21:23] <[GM]Ludwig> You're...
  4174. [21:23] * [GM]Ludwig plainly gapes.
  4175. [21:23] <[GM]Ludwig> ...what?
  4176. [21:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Shovel down those eggs, master. Mary will be off bright and early and we wouldn't want to be late."
  4177. [21:24] * [Gtz]Mary waits in an area near the church. . o O ( I did make him promise, so... It can't to wait for a little while. )
  4178. [21:24] <[GM]Ludwig> R... right...
  4179. [21:24] * [GM]Ludwig swallows his breakfast along with his misgivings, for the moment.
  4180. [21:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, I wonder if Teilya and Sam are up..."
  4181. [21:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll be right back, master."
  4182. [21:29] * [Nom]Alexis whisks off
  4183. [21:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Wha-uh... 'k...
  4184. [21:31] * [Nom]Alexis stops at Sam's room and stops. Taking a furtive look around, then inside, she slips in
  4185. [21:32] * [Kly]Sam is sleeping soundly.
  4186. [21:32] * [Nom]Alexis sits down next to the sleeping Sam, and ponders how best to do this.
  4187. [21:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Good morning, Sam."
  4188. [21:36] * [Kly]Sam 's eyes open up quickly, looking at Alexis
  4189. [21:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Are you up? Excellent, excellent. I hope I don't catch you at a bad time."
  4190. [21:37] <[Kly]Sam> N-no, I was just...
  4191. [21:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Now, no rush, no rush. I just wanted to talk. Since I am yet to be formally dismissed, I think this is a good opportunity for both of us."
  4192. [21:41] * [Kly]Sam sits up quickly, leaning against the wall
  4193. [21:43] * [Nom]Alexis frowns
  4194. [21:43] <[Nom]Alexis> "Come now, you have my word that I mean you now harm this morning. There is absolutely nothing to be afraid of."
  4195. [21:44] * [Nom]Alexis 's brow wrinkles
  4196. [21:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Perhaps we got started on the wrong foot. Let me try this again."
  4197. [21:44] * [Nom]Alexis clears his throat
  4198. [21:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Allow me to apologise for our conduct last we met. It must have been terribly rude. Let me assure you that it will not happen again. Most likely."
  4199. [21:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "On that note, let me congratulate you on formally coming under the master's protection. You are very fortunate indeed."
  4200. [21:47] * [Nom]Alexis grins
  4201. [21:52] <[Kly]Sam> I... what's going on? Not to be rude, but I don't...
  4202. [21:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "We were just, talking, right? Or rather, I was. It is enough if you just listen. It's something you should understand if you are to remain here."
  4203. [21:54] <[Kly]Sam> R-right...
  4204. [21:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "I do not hate you, child. You are probably a good person. But I have to make one thing clear.'
  4205. [21:57] * [Nom]Alexis glares
  4206. [21:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "I don't trust you. Not an iota. You are definitely dangerous. The master may be an arrogant pup, but he /knows/ something about you, and he hinted as much about your nature. So I'll be keeping an eye on you. And you should too, if you understand my meaning."
  4207. [22:03] * [Kly]Sam nods.
  4208. [22:03] <[Kly]Sam> I... think I get it.
  4209. [22:03] * [Nom]Alexis backs off a bit
  4210. [22:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's good, that's good. I'm glad we have an understanding with each other."
  4211. [22:04] * [Nom]Alexis nods sagely
  4212. [22:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, don't take it personally. You should at least enjoy your stay, while you have the time. Try to get along with her, will you?"
  4213. [22:05] * [Nom]Alexis gets up to go
  4214. [22:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, if you felt like going to church, you can come assemble in the wing just down the hall. Though I'm sure you have other things on your mind."
  4215. [22:06] * [Nom]Alexis leaves
  4216. [22:09] * [Kly]Sam sighs after she's sure that Alexis is out of sight
  4217. [22:11] <[Kly]Sam> I'd rather go back to sleep...
  4218. [22:14] * [Kly]Sam groans, and flops back into bed
  4219. [22:15] * [Gtz]Mary becomes lost in thought, waiting for her little company. She almost forgets what she's waiting for, and decides she can wait another five minutes.
  4220. [22:16] * [Nom]Alexis returns! To fanfare! Or not.
  4221. [22:16] * [GM]Ludwig finished off the food already and is waiting outside the door.
  4222. [22:16] <[GM]Ludwig> All done? With whatever it was?
  4223. [22:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, yes, let's go. Though I don't we've told Teilya where we were off to."
  4224. [22:17] <[GM]Ludwig> She can get us on the PA if she needs us. We're running behind as it is. Come on.
  4225. [22:18] * [GM]Ludwig hurries off chapel-ward.
  4226. [22:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "Running isn't dignified, master!"
  4227. [22:18] * [Nom]Alexis follows at a brisk walk
  4228. [22:21] * [GM]Ludwig slows down once he gets near his destination, composing himself.
  4229. [22:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let me fix your tie, master. Good grief, it's like you're getting married."
  4230. [22:23] <[GM]Ludwig> All in good time...
  4231. [22:23] * [GM]Ludwig holds still long enough for Alexis to make the necessary repairs.
  4232. [22:24] * [Gtz]Mary sits outside the chapel, not really paying any attention except to those greeting her that she's met in church
  4233. [22:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "This is what you get for rushing, master. You'll make a mess if you don't watch how you're moving."
  4234. [22:24] * [Nom]Alexis strokes down Ludwig's hair a bit with her fingers
  4235. [22:25] * [GM]Ludwig squirms.
  4236. [22:25] <[GM]Ludwig> All right, all right! I'm fine!
  4237. [22:25] * [Nom]Alexis tuts
  4238. [22:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's not about being /fine/, master. It's about being presentable."
  4239. [22:25] * [Nom]Alexis adds the finishing touches
  4240. [22:26] * [GM]Ludwig fidgets and sighs.
  4241. [22:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "There, that should do it. Off we go, master."
  4242. [22:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Can we *go*, now?
  4243. [22:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "Girls don't like men who are fast, master."
  4244. [22:26] * [GM]Ludwig sighs again and opens the door leading to the outer courtyard, with the chapel at the far end.
  4245. [22:27] * [Nom]Alexis follows at a moderate distance
  4246. [22:31] * [GM]Ludwig comes to a stop in front of the waiting Mary.
  4247. [22:32] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... I made it.
  4248. [22:32] * [Gtz]Mary is startled, and snaps out of her daze
  4249. [22:33] <[GM]Ludwig> That is, er... we made it.
  4250. [22:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Ludwig! so you've come. Who did you bring with you?
  4251. [22:33] * [Nom]Alexis was, meanwhile, trying to tiptoe
  4252. [22:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Er, hi Mary."
  4253. [22:34] * [Nom]Alexis mouths to Ludwig, "Master, you idiot."
  4254. [22:34] <[GM]Ludwig> She insisted. I didn't expect it, either.
  4255. [22:34] * [GM]Ludwig looks at Alexis and shrugs. What'd you want me to do?!
  4256. [22:34] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Alexis? What a surprise! I'm happy to hear you've come along. I would have asked, but I didn't think you'd want to come.
  4257. [22:36] * [Nom]Alexis grumbles. I don't know, just...bah.
  4258. [22:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I'm not really on very good terms, so, ah...well, I'm visiting someone."
  4259. [22:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm, I understand.
  4260. [22:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "You do? I mean, yes, of course, I knew you would. Are we supposed to, ah, stand? Sit? Run around? Um..."
  4261. [22:39] * [Nom]Alexis suddenly realises that in her rush to prepare Ludwig, she didn't prepare herself
  4262. [22:40] * [Gtz]Mary offers Alexis a smile and her hand
  4263. [22:40] * [GM]Ludwig leans in towards Alexis.
  4264. [22:40] <[GM]Ludwig> In doubt, just follow my lead.
  4265. [22:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't fret. Come with me, everything will come naturally.
  4266. [22:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Why don't I feel safe when you say that, master?"
  4267. [22:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Um, yes. Of course."
  4268. [22:43] * [Nom]Alexis takes Mary's hand like one would handle a particularly fragile piece of china laced with nitroglicerin.
  4269. [22:44] * [Gtz]Mary gives Alexis a light squeeze
  4270. [22:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Well then, shall we?
  4271. [22:44] * [GM]Ludwig starts to reach out for Mary's other hand, freezes, and ends up dropping it back down to his side.
  4272. [22:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Do I lead, or...oh yes. Yes. Um, we're going somewhere right?"
  4273. [22:45] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig an apologetic look
  4274. [22:45] * [Gtz]Mary sighs
  4275. [22:46] <[Gtz]Mary> For a couple of people who can see, you sure do get lost easily. Come on, it's this way.
  4276. [22:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm not lost, I'm just, er, direction impaired."
  4277. [22:47] <[GM]Ludwig> I was just waiting to follow you.
  4278. [22:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes, you do look a bit clueless. Maybe you need a bit of hand-holding from Mary as well."
  4279. [22:48] * [Gtz]Mary laughs softly
  4280. [22:48] * [GM]Ludwig turns red.
  4281. [22:48] <[Gtz]Mary> You two seem quite mortified over going to church. I promise you, no one will bite.
  4282. [22:49] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm not...!
  4283. [22:49] * [Nom]Alexis ribs Ludwig
  4284. [22:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "Yes you are!"
  4285. [22:50] * [Gtz]Mary feels around until she finds Ludwig's shoulder, and gives him a gentle pat
  4286. [22:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Come on. Let's go.
  4287. [22:51] * [GM]Ludwig reaches up and takes Mary's hand.
  4288. [22:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Ye... ok.
  4289. [22:52] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig a thumbs up
  4290. [22:52] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, and resumes sheparding her little sheep to the Lord's house
  4291. [22:54] * [Nom]Alexis feels a bit helpless being lead along by Mary. She wildly gestures to Ludwig to take the initiative.
  4292. [23:07] <[GM]Ludwig> [So anyway, yeah. Doodly doodly doodly.]
  4293. [23:08] <[GM]Ludwig> [It's after church, or something.]
  4294. [23:10] * [Gtz]Mary chats animatedly with other church goers in the courtyard. Catching up, it seems.
  4295. [23:11] * [GM]Ludwig mostly listens and smiles.
  4296. [23:12] * [Nom]Alexis is dozing off on the pews nearby
  4297. [23:16] * [GM]Ludwig waits until most of the others have filed out, then turns to Mary.
  4298. [23:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Well. More people showed up today than I thought there'd be.
  4299. [23:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Is it always like that?
  4300. [23:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Now that you mention it, I suppose we did have a bigger turn out than usual. A lot of us are curious about the master of the fortress, I suppose. Sorry if I put you on the spot earlier, Father Mackenzie occasionally calls out to random people like that.
  4301. [23:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh, no, that was fine. Just fine.
  4302. [23:23] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm... glad I came.
  4303. [23:23] * [GM]Ludwig takes Mary's hands in his own.
  4304. [23:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Thank you for inviting me.
  4305. [23:23] * [Gtz]Mary squeezes gently
  4306. [23:23] <[GM]Ludwig> ...after a fashion.
  4307. [23:23] * [Nom]Alexis takes a peek at the two, then gets back to snoring
  4308. [23:23] * [GM]Ludwig chuckles nervously.
  4309. [23:24] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm glad you did too. You're welcome to join anytime, you know.
  4310. [23:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Perhaps... perhaps I will.
  4311. [23:25] <[GM]Ludwig> Um... have you eaten, yet?
  4312. [23:25] <[Gtz]Mary> ...ehehe, no, I haven't... Had a bad feeling this morning.
  4313. [23:26] * [Gtz]Mary grows a tad less soft and a bit more serious
  4314. [23:26] * [GM]Ludwig tenses slightly with concern.
  4315. [23:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh? What's wrong?
  4316. [23:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Which reminds me. Ludwig, we need to speak this afternoon. Just you and me.
  4317. [23:26] * [Nom]Alexis perks up
  4318. [23:27] <[GM]Ludwig> This afternoon?
  4319. [23:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, a little later. Let me collect my thoughts.
  4320. [23:28] * [GM]Ludwig takes a half step closer to Mary.
  4321. [23:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Look...
  4322. [23:29] * [GM]Ludwig steps back, then away, towards the door.
  4323. [23:30] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll make you something to eat. Even I can make eggs and toast, at least.
  4324. [23:30] <[GM]Ludwig> If you're ready after that, we can talk.
  4325. [23:30] * [GM]Ludwig steps back towards Mary.
  4326. [23:31] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm here to listen to whatever you have to say. Whatever it is, you don't have to be nervous.
  4327. [23:32] * [Gtz]Mary 's heart sinks, but she keeps smiling
  4328. [23:33] * [GM]Ludwig squeezes Mary's hands reassuringly.
  4329. [23:33] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Hm-hm, don't worry master, I won't starve between here and the kitchen. But... thanks. Thanks for taking care of me all this time. Hah, and here I thought I was supposed to be taking care of you...
  4330. [23:34] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't mind.
  4331. [23:34] * [GM]Ludwig smiles up at Mary.
  4332. [23:35] * [Gtz]Mary swallows hard, doing her best to maintain composure. She takes a deep breath.
  4333. [23:37] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Okay. Well, let's head home for now. Alexis! Are you ready?
  4334. [23:37] * [Nom]Alexis makes a show of stretching
  4335. [23:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah yes. Just let me say goodbye first."
  4336. [23:38] * [Nom]Alexis sees that the coast is relatively clear, and walks up to the altar formally, and clears her throat.
  4337. [23:39] * [GM]Ludwig leads Mary gently out of the chapel, somehow getting the feeling Alexis wants to be alone for this.
  4338. [23:39] * [Nom]Alexis looks up at the stained glass, and begins rather awkwardly
  4339. [23:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "It isn't fair, you know?"
  4340. [23:40] * [Nom]Alexis stops, thinks a bit, and tries again
  4341. [23:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "So the world's in a bit of a mess, everything is going wrong, civilisation's on the brink. You've probably got your master plan and everything, but that doesn't change the fact that everyone else down here is struggling every day without a clue. I think you're going about it the wrong way. But I guess that's why I'm down here and you're up here.
  4342. [23:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "But anyway, I didn't come to rant. I'm sure your puppets are all dancing to your tune and everything fine and dandy. I just came to say hi."
  4343. [23:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "I don't know where he's gotten himself off to, but if the master's up there enjoying paradise while I'm down here looking after his kid, you go give him a piece of my mind, would you? The boy misses his father. At least, he will soon."
  4344. [23:48] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I think I've dirtied your house enough for one day. I'll see you around. Or not, I suppose."
  4345. [23:48] * [Nom]Alexis turns to leave, but turns around to make a quib before she does
  4346. [23:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "You hear me? You're just leaving us behind! You've always been so inconsiderate, master."
  4347. [23:50] * [Nom]Alexis goes join Ludwig outside
  4348. [23:50] <[GM]Ludwig> [Outside the church, everyone goes their separate ways.]
  4349. [23:51] <[GM]Ludwig> [Meanwhile, out along the watchtowers...]
  4350. [23:52] <[GM]Tetro> There's something on the far horizon...
  4351. [23:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm...
  4352. [23:53] * [Pyg]Cerise lifts her rifle to check through her scope.
  4353. [23:53] <[GM]Tetro> Even with the scope, at this distance, it just looks like a bunch of dust, or possibly smoke.
  4354. [23:54] <[GM]Tetro> Nothing moving that you can make out.
  4355. [23:56] * [Pyg]Cerise frowns. Whatever is coming, it doesn't look pleasant.
  4356. [23:57] * [Pyg]Cerise pushes a button on her ear piece, hoping to communicate with anyone in the command room.
  4357. [23:57] <[GM]Tetro> Something else... but not through the scope. Something moves in your peripheral vision, closer to the wall.
  4358. [23:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh?
  4359. [23:58] * [Pyg]Cerise readies her rifle turning instinctively to wear she thinks the thing went to.
  4360. [00:00] * [Pyg]Cerise maintains her aim at where she's looking as she carefully reaches for the button on her ear piece again.
  4361. [00:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298;Hello? Anyone there? Over.&#12299;
  4362. [00:01] <[GM]Tetro> You recognize that guy. From the city, and the lab, the nutjob. He looks like he's seen better days...
  4363. [00:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Wha-- You!
  4364. [00:02] * [kiri]Hans trip, and fall. He's bleeding real bad. His hand clutching his gun, looking as if he's going to faint any minute.
  4365. [00:02] <[kiri]Hans> "GGgggh.... I... I can't die here... after all my...friend... did....."
  4366. [00:04] * [Pyg]Cerise eyes the gun in the man's hand. Don't blink...He might shoot when you're not paying attention.
  4367. [00:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wh-what do you want?
  4368. [00:04] * [kiri]Hans rest his back against the wall, painting it red with his blood.
  4369. [00:05] <[kiri]Hans> "Not yet... not... yet... I cannot... die...."
  4370. [00:05] <[kiri]Hans> "H.... help..."
  4371. [00:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> H-help you? Are you serious? After what you put me and my friend through?
  4372. [00:06] <[kiri]Hans> "Wh...what.... I didn't... hear...."
  4373. [00:07] * [Pyg]Cerise is starting to shake a little. Can he be trusted? Why's he here? Is still after me?
  4374. [00:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Hello? Cerise? This is Ludwig.
  4375. [00:08] <[Pyg]Cerise> (Damn! Why won't anyone answer? What the hell am I supposed to do?)
  4376. [00:08] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah!
  4377. [00:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Sorry, I just got back from church. What do you have to report?
  4378. [00:09] * [Pyg]Cerise reaches for her communicator again, still eying the intruder.
  4379. [00:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298;An intruder, master. Also, something's coming from far south.&#12299;
  4380. [00:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298;It's still too far to make out what it is.&#12299;
  4381. [00:11] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't see anything on the sensors... at least, nothing approaching. But, an intruder?
  4382. [00:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Where are you?
  4383. [00:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "Did she say intruder?"
  4384. [00:12] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298;It's...It's one of those scavengers from a few days ago. I'm at the south western tower.&#12299;
  4385. [00:13] <[GM]Ludwig> The scavengers? Where are the rest?
  4386. [00:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; No idea. He's alone...Bleeding badly too. &#12299;
  4387. [00:14] * [Nom]Alexis leaves for the south west tower
  4388. [00:14] <[kiri]Hans> "Argh... shit... I need a... Pentazimin... My hand's shaking..."
  4389. [00:15] <[GM]Ludwig> ...
  4390. [00:15] * [kiri]Hans looking at Cerise.
  4391. [00:15] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wh-what?
  4392. [00:15] <[kiri]Hans> "You... you're a woman right?.... Stay away... It's...dangerous."
  4393. [00:15] <[kiri]Hans> "They followed...me...."
  4394. [00:16] <[kiri]Hans> "Goddamnit... Goddamnit!"
  4395. [00:16] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise? Is everything all right?
  4396. [00:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; Y-yeah... &#12299;
  4397. [00:16] * [kiri]Hans load his shotgun. His aim is shaking, but he's pointing his gun to the direction he came from.
  4398. [00:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Forget it master! I'm going! Stay put in the command room!"
  4399. [00:17] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; Um...He says he was followed. It might have to do with that thing in the distance--Wah! Wh-what are you doing? &#12299;
  4400. [00:17] * [Gtz]Mary becomes aware of a commotion, and heads toward the control room to check it out
  4401. [00:17] <[kiri]Hans> "Ghhh.... you..."
  4402. [00:18] <[GM]Ludwig> We...
  4403. [00:18] <[kiri]Hans> "You get me inside! or *cough* leave me and run!.... There's... not much time to choose! *cough.*"
  4404. [00:18] <[PB]Teilya> -Bzzt- This is Teilya reporting, the bathroom is now clean and sparkly! What shall I do next Master Ludwig?
  4405. [00:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya! Get to the med room and prep it for a patient, possibly critical condition.
  4406. [00:19] * [Pyg]Cerise furrows her brows. Help him or...let him die.
  4407. [00:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise... disarm him, and get him inside. Knock him out if you have to.
  4408. [00:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, help her.
  4409. [00:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; Ah! Yes, Master! &#12299;
  4410. [00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh?"
  4411. [00:20] * [Pyg]Cerise inches slowly toward the man.
  4412. [00:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...C-could you lower your gun?
  4413. [00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Specify, master"
  4414. [00:20] <[PB]Teilya> Eh? What's happening?
  4415. [00:20] <[kiri]Hans> "The fuck I can! It's dangerous out here!"
  4416. [00:20] * [Pyg]Cerise slowly lowers her own gun as she slowly approaches.
  4417. [00:20] * [Gtz]Mary has just wondered in, and inquires worriedly
  4418. [00:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> My master says we have to bring you inside...
  4419. [00:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Master? Alexis? Is something the matter?
  4420. [00:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> S-so...I'll help you, but please....lower your gun?
  4421. [00:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "The fortress has been breached. Fortify this location until threat is neutralised."
  4422. [00:22] <[Gtz]Mary> ...
  4423. [00:22] <[kiri]Hans> "Master *cough* what?... Is this the nearest settlement... he... talked about?!"
  4424. [00:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Alex, stand down! Override!
  4425. [00:22] <[PB]Teilya> Um, is someone going to tell me what's going on nya?
  4426. [00:22] <[kiri]Hans> "Ghhh---What....EVER! I leave my fate to you.... missy!"
  4427. [00:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Just get to Cerise and help her.
  4428. [00:23] * [kiri]Hans lower his gun.
  4429. [00:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Whatever you say, master."
  4430. [00:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya, we don't know, either. Just prep the med room!
  4431. [00:23] * [Pyg]Cerise gets closer to the wounded man and braces herself.
  4432. [00:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> I apologize for this.
  4433. [00:23] * [Nom]Alexis is out
  4434. [00:23] <[kiri]Hans> Wha--?
  4435. [00:23] * [GM]Ludwig turns to face Mary.
  4436. [00:23] * [Gtz]Mary tenses at the mention of Cerise being in danger
  4437. [00:23] * [Pyg]Cerise delivers the butt of her rifle to the man's head.
  4438. [00:23] * [kiri]Hans is down for the count.
  4439. [00:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Something's... happening out on the wall. A man has appeared.
  4440. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hey, Cerise? You still there? Southwest tower, was it?"
  4441. [00:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Wounded.
  4442. [00:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; Y-yes, Miss Alexis. &#12299;
  4443. [00:24] <[Gtz]Mary> Is there anything I can do?
  4444. [00:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> &#12298; He's been subdued for the moment. &#12299;
  4445. [00:24] * [Nom]Alexis appears up the stairwell
  4446. [00:24] <[PB]Teilya> Uh...o-okay...
  4447. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, what? You took all the fun for yourself."
  4448. [00:25] * [Pyg]Cerise shoulders her rifle and takes the gun from the man's hand.
  4449. [00:25] * [Pyg]Cerise turns to Alexis.
  4450. [00:25] <[Pyg]Cerise> Uh...You could say I owed him one.
  4451. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm..."
  4452. [00:25] * [PB]Teilya quickly scurries off to the medical facilities, preparing for whatever that's happening. However, she have a bad feeling about the whole business...
  4453. [00:25] * [Nom]Alexis crouches and take a look at the intruder
  4454. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Have I seen you somewhere?"
  4455. [00:26] <[GM]Ludwig> The intruder, being unconscious, doesn't reply.
  4456. [00:26] <[GM]Tetro> [Yeah.]
  4457. [00:27] * [Nom]Alexis gets bored quickly
  4458. [00:27] <[Gtz]Mary> Master Ludwig, unless you have any objections, I'll go assist Teilya in the infirmary.
  4459. [00:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Good. Go.
  4460. [00:27] * [Gtz]Mary leaves at a quicker pace than usual
  4461. [00:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I'm supposed to be helping you, but you handled yourself just fine."
  4462. [00:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> He looks heavy though.
  4463. [00:28] * [Nom]Alexis frowns
  4464. [00:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll take his legs.
  4465. [00:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "And I'm just a dainty little thing. Ah well. It's all your fault, master."
  4466. [00:29] * [Nom]Alexis grabs him under the arms
  4467. [00:29] * [Pyg]Cerise moves to pick up the man by the ankles.
  4468. [00:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "I hope you don't have spinal damage, strangely familiar man. Heave ho!"
  4469. [00:31] <[GM]Ludwig> [That's good enough for me. I'm tired.]
  4470.  
  4471.  
  4472.  
  4473.  
  4474.  
  4475.  
  4476.  
  4477.  
  4478.  
  4479. @@---
  4480. @@=====
  4481. @@Session Nine
  4482. @@=====
  4483. @@---
  4484.  
  4485. [20:27] <[GM]Ludwig> [Pick up at the medroom. Cerise and Sam arrive with Hans (unconscious), Teilya is already there, the rest arrive shortly after.]
  4486. [20:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> He just came out of nowhere!
  4487. [20:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, a dashing prince drops out of the sky! How romantic!"
  4488. [20:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Mhm... How bad is he?
  4489. [20:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> He was already bleeding when he made it over the wall.
  4490. [20:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Positively hemorrhaging"
  4491. [20:32] <[GM]Ludwig> [Okay, hold it.]
  4492. [20:34] <[Nom]Alexis> [Cue voiceover exposition]
  4493. [20:35] <[Gtz]Mary> [I didn't get the chance to waste space at the start, so I'll do it right here, thank you very much]
  4494. [20:35] <[PB]Teilya> [Same~]
  4495. [20:36] <[GM]Ludwig> [Resume!]
  4496. [20:37] <[GM]Ludwig> What happened? Did he say anything?
  4497. [20:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> S...something about his friends.
  4498. [20:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> I guess they didn't make it.
  4499. [20:39] <[GM]Ludwig> What happened to them? Bugs?
  4500. [20:40] <[Gtz]Mary> ...
  4501. [20:40] * [Gtz]Mary swallows, then performs a short prayer and the sign of the cross. A face of constricted anxiety replaces her usual smile.
  4502. [20:40] <[Pyg]Cerise> That would be my guess.
  4503. [20:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "One day Cerise will discover her latent clairaudient powers, master, but probably not right now."
  4504. [20:42] <[GM]Ludwig> I see...
  4505. [20:42] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Well. Let's help who we can for now. Teilya, could give me a hand?
  4506. [20:42] * [GM]Ludwig stares at the now relatively peaceful man for a moment before snapping out of his thoughts at Mary's voice.
  4507. [20:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, well. We should leave this to the experts.
  4508. [20:43] * [GM]Ludwig starts away to the door.
  4509. [20:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ooh, that's me, right? Well, I suggest we amputate."
  4510. [20:44] * [GM]Ludwig grabs Alexis' elbow on his way past.
  4511. [20:44] <[PB]Teilya> I...
  4512. [20:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "No? No? Aww."
  4513. [20:45] * [Nom]Alexis gets dragged out by the arm
  4514. [20:45] * [Gtz]Mary shakes her head.
  4515. [20:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Teilya? Is something wrong?
  4516. [20:46] * [PB]Teilya bit her lips with a look of uncertainty, but nonetheless shook her head when faced with the question.
  4517. [20:46] <[PB]Teilya> No...no I'm fine nya...just...uncomfortable.
  4518. [20:46] <[Pyg]Cerise> I know how you feel, Miss Teilya, but we have to follow the master's orders.
  4519. [20:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Why? What's wrong?
  4520. [20:47] * [Pyg]Cerise rests a hand on Teilya's shoulder.
  4521. [20:47] <[PB]Teilya> I...I know...
  4522. [20:47] * [PB]Teilya closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, calming herself down as she approached the man.
  4523. [20:49] * [Gtz]Mary seems to be perplexed
  4524. [20:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Um...Mary, we should step outside.
  4525. [20:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya, will you be all right?
  4526. [20:51] * [PB]Teilya looked at Cerise, and braved a weak smile.
  4527. [20:51] <[PB]Teilya> I...I will be fine nya.
  4528. [20:51] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'll come running in and put him down if he gives you trouble, all right?
  4529. [20:52] <[Gtz]Mary> Trouble? What happened? Won't one of you answer me?
  4530. [20:52] <[PB]Teilya> Y-Yes...thanks, Cerise...
  4531. [20:52] * [GM]Ludwig makes sure Alexis is out of the room and out of the way before going back for Mary and Cerise.
  4532. [20:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Come on. Teilya knows her job, she'll do fine.
  4533. [20:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Are you sure you don't want assistance? I can help...
  4534. [20:54] * [Gtz]Mary feels defeated, but she doesn't know why. It bothers her that she doesn't know.
  4535. [20:54] * [PB]Teilya gulps, but nods anyway.
  4536. [20:55] <[PB]Teilya> Y-Yes, I'll be fine...
  4537. [20:56] <[Gtz]Mary> ..Well, if something unusual happens, I'll be within earshot, alright? God be with you, Miss Vallence.
  4538. [20:57] * [Pyg]Cerise steps out of the room.
  4539. [20:57] <[PB]Teilya> Thank you, Miss Mary...
  4540. [20:57] * [GM]Ludwig nods reassuringly to Teilya as he leads Mary to the door.
  4541. [20:58] * [Gtz]Mary reluctantly allows Ludwig to lead her out. ( I can't get over the feeling of animosity... )
  4542. [21:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "You think Teilya will be fine on her own, master? She only has two hands, after all. Maybe three with a prehensile tail. But still."
  4543. [21:01] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Could someone please explain to me what happened? I'm sorry, but...
  4544. [21:01] <[GM]Ludwig> She knows what she's doing.
  4545. [21:02] <[Pyg]Cerise> That man was among the scavengers who attacked us a few days ago.
  4546. [21:02] <[GM]Ludwig> He... what?
  4547. [21:02] <[GM]Ludwig> Are you sure?
  4548. [21:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> I won't forget that face.
  4549. [21:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> Neither would Miss Teilya.
  4550. [21:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ha! I knew I recognised him from somewhere! He was there when we found Sam as well."
  4551. [21:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> That's right. He came after us a second time.
  4552. [21:04] * [GM]Ludwig 's jaw drops. Just drops, is all.
  4553. [21:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Then I could have sworn we blew him up..."
  4554. [21:04] * [Nom]Alexis peers back at the med room
  4555. [21:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Whoops."
  4556. [21:05] * [Kly]Sam comes wandering around a corner, rubbing one eye
  4557. [21:05] <[Kly]Sam> Oh, there you all are. Why is it so noisy...?
  4558. [21:05] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, we thought he got killed back then too when an old machine started stomping around.
  4559. [21:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, Sam!
  4560. [21:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm.
  4561. [21:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, Sam, you've woken up just in time to be standing around doing nothing."
  4562. [21:05] * [GM]Ludwig closes his mouth again and thinks for a second.
  4563. [21:06] * [Kly]Sam laughs a little at the joke
  4564. [21:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Wrong again, Alexis.
  4565. [21:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Sam, we have a patient. A man appeared at the fortress wall, badly wounded. Teilya is attending to him now.
  4566. [21:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Would you please assist her, however she might need it?
  4567. [21:07] * [Gtz]Mary is silent, trying to take in all aspects of the conversation, listening not only to the words, but the tone and feeling behind them. Actually, she just doesn't know what to do or say, so she just resigns herself to listen carefully.
  4568. [21:07] * [Nom]Alexis sniffs
  4569. [21:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary, Master Ludwig is picking on me."
  4570. [21:07] <[Kly]Sam> I don't know what I could do, but...
  4571. [21:08] * [GM]Ludwig smiles at the rainbow-eyed newcomer.
  4572. [21:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> He did say he was being followed though.
  4573. [21:09] <[GM]Ludwig> It's not hard. Teilya can handle all of the specialized equipment. You just have to...
  4574. [21:09] * [GM]Ludwig pauses, at a momentary loss.
  4575. [21:09] * [Nom]Alexis stops mock crying
  4576. [21:09] <[GM]Ludwig> ...hold the bandages in place. Or something.
  4577. [21:09] <[GM]Ludwig> All right?
  4578. [21:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "I think Cerise just said something very interesting there."
  4579. [21:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm going back out there to check. Is that all right, Master Ludwig?
  4580. [21:10] <[GM]Ludwig> Ideal. I'll come with you.
  4581. [21:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "Is that wise, master? I think you should stay here where it's safe in case he was tailed by something nasty."
  4582. [21:12] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Alexis is right. To be honest, I'm not sure I'll be able to protect you if there is something out there.
  4583. [21:12] * [Gtz]Mary . o ( Cerise is putting herself in the line of fire again. Say something, dummy! )
  4584. [21:12] * [GM]Ludwig chuckles. "Shields aren't all I know. I can hold my own, if it comes to that."
  4585. [21:13] <[Gtz]Mary> ..Are... Are you two sure of this? I really don't want you to, but... Please be careful.
  4586. [21:14] <[Pyg]Cerise> Of course I will.
  4587. [21:14] * [Pyg]Cerise tries to sound as confident as possible.
  4588. [21:14] <[GM]Ludwig> If there is something following him, it will show up on the long-range sensors. Mary, Alexis, get to the control room and keep an eye on them.
  4589. [21:15] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Right. Right. Come on, Alexis.
  4590. [21:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "...And not come with you, master? It's not just bravado for the ladies, is it?"
  4591. [21:16] <[Kly]Sam> W-well, I'll do my best here.
  4592. [21:17] * [Kly]Sam opens the door to the medroom and slips inside
  4593. [21:23] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sam, Teilya and Hans are up.]
  4594. [21:24] <[Kly]Sam> ... Teilya? Ludwig said that I should help...
  4595. [21:25] * [PB]Teilya looked up, and gave Sam a weak smile.
  4596. [21:25] <[PB]Teilya> T-Thanks...um...could you please hold him down...just in case?
  4597. [21:26] <[PB]Teilya> I'll...get something readied...
  4598. [21:30] * [Kly]Sam walks over to the body, looks, and the pauses
  4599. [21:30] <[Kly]Sam> U-um... how should I...?
  4600. [21:31] <[PB]Teilya> A-ah...just...strap him down onto the operating table...?
  4601. [21:32] * [PB]Teilya suggested nervously as she pulled out a syringe and a bottle of sedative from a drawer.
  4602. [21:32] <[Kly]Sam> Oh! Right, the straps. Ha-ha, why didn't I see those before...
  4603. [21:33] * [Kly]Sam gets to work strapping the poor man down, trying not to touch him in the process
  4604. [21:35] * [PB]Teilya walks back with a syringe full of sedative, and holding back her fear she injected the substance into the man's body.
  4605. [21:35] <[PB]Teilya> W-well, t-this should be enough as safety precautions...
  4606. [21:36] <[PB]Teilya> Let's see...um...
  4607. [21:37] * [Kly]Sam looks to Teilya, waiting for orders
  4608. [21:37] * [PB]Teilya quickly read through the data from the various machines, and then looked back at Sam.
  4609. [21:38] <[PB]Teilya> Um...would you please bring me some disinfectant?
  4610. [21:39] <[PB]Teilya> It's on one of the top right shelves...
  4611. [21:40] * [Kly]Sam looks like she's about to ask a question, but then nods and goes to fetch the disinfectant.
  4612. [21:41] * [PB]Teilya turns back to look at the sedated man.
  4613. [21:41] <[PB]Teilya> I...
  4614. [21:43] <[PB]Teilya> I...don't know if I should...but...
  4615. [21:46] * [PB]Teilya bit down on her lips again.
  4616. [21:46] * [Kly]Sam returns.
  4617. [21:46] <[PB]Teilya> I don't want to be hated...
  4618. [21:46] <[Kly]Sam> Here, is this the right bottle?
  4619. [21:47] * [PB]Teilya was startled by Sam's voice, but quickly turned around and looked at the bottle. She then nodded after examining it.
  4620. [21:47] <[PB]Teilya> Yes, that's the one...
  4621. [21:50] * [PB]Teilya accepts the bottle from Sam, and starts to apply the disinfectant where appropriate.
  4622. [21:50] <[PB]Teilya> Um, Sam?
  4623. [21:51] <[PB]Teilya> Could you...get me some needles and threads?
  4624. [21:51] <[Kly]Sam> Where is it?
  4625. [21:52] <[PB]Teilya> In the left drawer, near the sink.
  4626. [21:52] * [Kly]Sam nods, and retrieves a packet of needles and some thread.
  4627. [21:53] <[PB]Teilya> Thanks, Sam.
  4628. [21:53] * [PB]Teilya nods in appreciation, and begin to stitch the wounds back together.
  4629. [21:58] <[GM]Ludwig> [With the larger of the wounds sewn up and the smaller bandaged tightly, the bleeding is stopped, and his breathing seems to be evening out. Prognosis: positive.]
  4630. [21:58] <[PB]Teilya> Um...okay, let's get to the fractured bones...
  4631. [22:00] * [PB]Teilya quickly measures the length of the fracture, and relays the need to Sam.
  4632. [22:01] <[PB]Teilya> The splints should be next to the needles and threads drawer.
  4633. [22:02] * [Kly]Sam nods, fetching even more medical supplies.
  4634. [22:05] * [PB]Teilya nods in return, and quickly applies the splint.
  4635. [22:06] <[PB]Teilya> Well...that's all we could do...I guess...
  4636. [22:07] <[Kly]Sam> I'm sure he'll be fine. You're a good doctor.
  4637. [22:07] * [PB]Teilya gave Sam a weak smile.
  4638. [22:07] * [Kly]Sam smiles as best as she can with a near-corpse nearby
  4639. [22:07] <[PB]Teilya> I...thanks, I guess...
  4640. [22:09] <[GM]Ludwig> [With the mysterious man of mystery all bandaged and whatnot, focus shifts to the lookout in the war room.]
  4641. [22:13] * [Gtz]Mary takes her place near the communication equipment, flipping the dits and doo-dads necessary to establish communication throughout the fortress.
  4642. [22:14] * [Nom]Alexis admires the pretty lights and toggles the same switch repeatedly
  4643. [22:14] * [Gtz]Mary can't see the pretty lights and is slightly distracted by a clicking
  4644. [22:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "What were we supposed to be doing anyway?"
  4645. [22:16] * [Nom]Alexis leans back on her chair and watches the flickering images on the screen without much interest
  4646. [22:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Paying attention to the fortress's surroundings. If we notice anything, we warn the master immediately.
  4647. [22:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "What good will it be, though? If something's coming the master will probably notice it first. Then get eaten."
  4648. [22:19] * [Nom]Alexis tries out a knob this time
  4649. [22:19] <[Gtz]Mary> That's not funny. Just keep an eye on the security.
  4650. [22:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "No joke, Mary."
  4651. [22:20] * [Gtz]Mary is also distracted by how she feels about the scavenger, and thinking of how the others may feel. ( Is it a good idea to just leave him alone with Teilya like that? She's been having her own problems lately... No, I trust her to make the right decision. I hope she does... )
  4652. [22:22] * [Gtz]Mary and what she's got to tell Ludwig, what she's got to tell Cerise, what she's got to do with the matter at hand... When it rains, it pours.
  4653. [22:25] * [Nom]Alexis switches the display between different cameras without much enthusiasm
  4654. [22:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Say, Mary? How did you end up here anyway?"
  4655. [22:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? That's a strange thing to ask all the sudden. Why?
  4656. [22:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "Boredom makes you think of the darndest things. So, no reason."
  4657. [22:32] * [Nom]Alexis is still dreamily operating the security screens
  4658. [22:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I used to work at a hospital in Kasval. It's pretty far north from what I know of it, I believe it was picked to treat soldiers and refugees because the colder climate would keep the bugs away in all but the summer months. I was part of those who was sent as a refugee.
  4659. [22:36] <[Gtz]Mary> St. Anne's was it's name. Unfortunately, the hospital fell under siege, and they had to relocate us again.
  4660. [22:37] * [Nom]Alexis perks up oh so slightly
  4661. [22:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "St Anne?"
  4662. [22:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "There were survivors?"
  4663. [22:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes. Like I said, it was a war hospital. Soldiers from the frontlines would be brought in to be taken of. At first we had a lot of people, but there was less and less every year...
  4664. [22:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "...I see."
  4665. [22:41] * [Nom]Alexis droops again
  4666. [22:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "It must have been after you left then..."
  4667. [22:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, it was.
  4668. [22:42] <[Gtz]Mary> I got lucky again...
  4669. [22:44] <[Gtz]Mary> It's impossible to for me to survive on my own, with my blindness. I've always had to rely on the kindness of others, otherwise I wouldn't be able to live... I'm very lucky to have received that kindness again and again. I've been saved, I don't know how many times.
  4670. [22:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Beetlehovens just happening to be Kasval? I don't think that's luck."
  4671. [22:46] * [Gtz]Mary laughs, just a little bit. Hardly a chuckle.
  4672. [22:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah. You're right. Someone's been looking out for me...
  4673. [22:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "No. I think you were /un/lucky."
  4674. [22:49] * [Gtz]Mary 's thoughts drift between her mother, Cerise, Ludwig, Teilya, God, everyone she's had to count on up to now... ( I only want to be able to pay back that kindness. If I can do that, I think I'm set. )
  4675. [22:50] <[Gtz]Mary> ?
  4676. [22:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, never mind. Just being silly again."
  4677. [22:51] * [Nom]Alexis laughs weakly
  4678. [22:55] <[Gtz]Mary> A lot of bad things happened... But, I'm still alive. I'm still able.
  4679. [22:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Anyway, the person who saved me this time was Ludwig's father. I swore to him that I'd make sure his son grows up well, and is able to prosper in this new era. I haven't been keeping my promise...
  4680. [22:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Some years back, it seemed like St Anne and most of eastern Kasval was going to fall to the beetles."
  4681. [22:58] * [Nom]Alexis starts speaking to nobody in particular
  4682. [22:58] * [Gtz]Mary the anxiety of the earlier morning returns to her. She's still unsure of what to do...
  4683. [22:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "It was probably inevitable. There was no way they were going to hold."
  4684. [23:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Around that time, Master Beetlehoven received a purging commission. The target area was a 200 square mile area near the eastern coast of Kasval...including the major refugee district, St Anne hospital."
  4685. [23:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Oh? Er, forget I said anything. Ah ha."
  4686. [23:11] * [Nom]Alexis goes back to laughing
  4687. [23:12] * [Gtz]Mary was too distracted to catch that last comment
  4688. [23:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I'm sorry, what did you say/
  4689. [23:12] <[Gtz]Mary> [fuck you, you're a question mark]
  4690. [23:13] <[GM]Ludwig> [Yeah, whatever. Wall.]
  4691. [23:14] <[Nom]Alexis> "Nothing! That's what I said! So that means I didn't say a thing. Which is not anything! Of course! Ah ha ha."
  4692. [23:15] <[Gtz]Mary> [for real this time]
  4693. [23:15] <[Nom]Alexis> [Fade out on an awkward note to end a bunch of awkward notes]
  4694. [23:15] <[GM]Ludwig> [That was meant to be a "cut".]
  4695. [23:17] * [GM]Ludwig climbs the last of the stairs and steps out onto the parapet atop the fortress walls.
  4696. [23:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Is this where you were when you spotted him?
  4697. [23:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes.
  4698. [23:18] * [Pyg]Cerise points to the pool of blood where the scavenger sat.
  4699. [23:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> There was something in the distance too. A cloud of dust.
  4700. [23:19] * [Pyg]Cerise raises her rifle to look at the distance through the scope.
  4701. [23:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Dust? Any concrete ideas on what kicked it up?
  4702. [23:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> It was hard to see. It was probably hidden in it, whatever it was.
  4703. [23:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm
  4704. [23:22] * [GM]Ludwig arcs one hand over his eyes, like a shade in the dim light, and mutters something rapidly under his breath.
  4705. [23:23] <[GM]Ludwig> It seems to be gone now, whatever it was. Or dormant, at least.
  4706. [23:24] <[GM]Ludwig> We can't count on either one of those states to hold for long...
  4707. [23:25] * [Pyg]Cerise sighs as she lowers her rifle. What was that anyway?
  4708. [23:25] * [GM]Ludwig lowers his hand, placing it on the wall and frowning at the distance for several seconds in silence.
  4709. [23:25] <[GM]Ludwig> ...Cerise?
  4710. [23:26] <[Pyg]Cerise> Sir?
  4711. [23:26] <[GM]Ludwig> I have a question for you. It might sound rather strange, or even intrusive, but please consider it seriously and answer in kind. All right?
  4712. [23:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> O...okay.
  4713. [23:28] * [GM]Ludwig drums his fingers nervously before turning his face up to look Cerise stonily in the eye.
  4714. [23:28] <[GM]Ludwig> In your bedroom, last night... what happened?
  4715. [23:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> L-last night?
  4716. [23:29] * [GM]Ludwig just nods.
  4717. [23:29] * [Pyg]Cerise , caught off guard by the inquiry, tries to stay cool.
  4718. [23:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> Lots of talking, you know, kind of like a slumber party...
  4719. [23:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Mm. Any subjects in particular?
  4720. [23:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> Master, you're a boy.
  4721. [23:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> Boy's don't ask what girls discuss during slumber parties.
  4722. [23:32] * [GM]Ludwig seems for a moment to have taken a step towards Cerise, but the next moment is seen to be standing just where he was, only somehow... closer.
  4723. [23:32] <[GM]Ludwig> I told you, Cerise, this is a serious inquiry. Please treat it as such.
  4724. [23:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> And so is a girl's privacy, Master. It's not very gentlemanly to force an answer.
  4725. [23:40] * [Pyg]Cerise stops to think a moment, returning Ludwig's gaze.
  4726. [23:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> You want to know more about Mary.
  4727. [23:42] * [GM]Ludwig exhales in a short burst, not quite a cough. His expression and demeanor seem less, hmm, forced afterwards.
  4728. [23:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Ye...es.
  4729. [23:43] * [Pyg]Cerise seems to have relaxed as well.
  4730. [23:43] * [GM]Ludwig tries that again, once more with feeling.
  4731. [23:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes. Mary.
  4732. [23:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> Just say so, Master. It's no good to ask any girl about something like that the way you did.
  4733. [23:48] * [Pyg]Cerise turns to look at the horizon as she speaks.
  4734. [23:49] <[Pyg]Cerise> Well, if you really want to know. You didn't come up in last night's conversation.
  4735. [23:53] <[GM]Ludwig> That's...
  4736. [23:53] * [GM]Ludwig glances at the horizon briefly, then back at Cerise.
  4737. [23:54] <[GM]Ludwig> ...not actually what I wanted to hear. I mean, now what I wanted to know.
  4738. [23:54] <[GM]Ludwig> I... um...
  4739. [23:54] * [GM]Ludwig turns back to the horizon and frowns, but his eyes are closed.
  4740. [23:55] <[GM]Ludwig> How... about... Sam?
  4741. [23:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> She dropped out early.
  4742. [23:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> Understandable, since it was a pretty hectic day.
  4743. [23:57] <[GM]Ludwig> I suppose so. Didn't leave you with much of a party, though, just the two of you. A ha ha.
  4744. [23:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Yeah.
  4745. [23:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> Actually, Master...
  4746. [23:58] * [Pyg]Cerise turns away from the horizon and back to Cerise.
  4747. [23:58] <[GM]Ludwig> [Ludwig.]
  4748. [23:58] <[GM]Ludwig> [Unless this is some weird navel-gazing recursion thing.]
  4749. [23:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> [AGAIN]
  4750. [23:58] * [Pyg]Cerise turns away from the horizon and back to Ludwig.
  4751. [23:59] * [GM]Ludwig starts paying full attention again. This could be it...
  4752. [23:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> Do you mind if I ask you something?
  4753. [23:59] * [GM]Ludwig blinks. That wasn't expected.
  4754. [00:00] <[GM]Ludwig> Um, no, I don't think so. I mean, no. Not at all.
  4755. [00:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> What is it about Mary that attracts you?
  4756. [00:00] <[Pyg]Cerise> Y...You don't have to hold back.
  4757. [00:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Whahaah...
  4758. [00:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> I won't tell her. I'm just being a...concerned friend.
  4759. [00:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Er...
  4760. [00:03] * [GM]Ludwig breaks formation and just leans into the wall.
  4761. [00:05] <[GM]Ludwig> May I just point out before I respond, and I do intend to respond, that this is a hell of a thing to spring on me after dodging my initial questioning by reason of feminine secrecy.
  4762. [00:05] * [Pyg]Cerise chuckles.
  4763. [00:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> Aw, come on, I told you what you wanted to know most.
  4764. [00:08] * [GM]Ludwig smiles weakly. "Not by a long shot, actually. But what, exactly, I did want to know... I don't know."
  4765. [00:10] * [GM]Ludwig starts to say something else, but shakes his head and waves it away with one hand. Propping his elbows against the wall, he turns his face up to the sky.
  4766. [00:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary's... beautiful, is all there really is to it, in every sense of the word. Anyone can see it, but it's not just how she looks. She's... warm, and kind, understanding... soft but strong.
  4767. [00:14] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm probably biased saying this, but she is possibly the last light left in this world.
  4768. [00:14] * [Pyg]Cerise looks back over at the horizon, smiling to herself. Yes, he's quite right.
  4769. [00:15] * [GM]Ludwig 's eyes lose focus slightly, and his speech gets quieter.
  4770. [00:17] <[GM]Ludwig> [Never mind that last line. Going in the direction I had in mind was a dumb idea.]
  4771. [00:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Why do you ask?
  4772. [00:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> I just told you, silly.
  4773. [00:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> Really now, Master, looks like Mary's all you ever think about.
  4774. [00:25] <[GM]Ludwig> I wish that were the case.
  4775. [00:27] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...What's that supposed to mean?
  4776. [00:28] * [GM]Ludwig strikes without warning, wrapping his arms around Cerise's torso and pulling their bodies together into a close embrace.
  4777. [00:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> M-M-M-M-Master, wh-wh-wh-what are you doing?!
  4778. [00:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary... might need you, soon. But, as less of a friend, and more... more of a...
  4779. [00:31] * [Pyg]Cerise stops struggling, trying to listen now. Why'd he have to cut off before the important part?
  4780. [00:31] * [GM]Ludwig shakes his head and relaxes his grip somewhat, turning his face aside as if he were listening for Cerise's heartbeat.
  4781. [00:32] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise... this is an order. Are you listening?
  4782. [00:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> Y-yes?
  4783. [00:33] <[GM]Ludwig> If... anything... happens to me in the next few days... I want you to take Mary and run.
  4784. [00:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Just run, and don't stop.
  4785. [00:34] <[Pyg]Cerise> You're being crazy. Your safety is our first priority as maids. Nothing will happen to you.
  4786. [00:36] * [GM]Ludwig continues droning on, heedless. The voice you hear only resembles his in that it is coming out of his mouth, but otherwise, it may as well be a stranger speaking.
  4787. [00:37] <[GM]Ludwig> Don't try to find somewhere safe. No such place exists anymore. To move, and keep moving, it's the only chance, as slim as it is, to survive.
  4788. [00:39] * [Pyg]Cerise calms down of the initial shock of a sudden hug.
  4789. [00:40] <[GM]Ludwig> She'll be the first, but I can't allow that. Have to stop them, whatever it takes. But if even that isn't enough, then nothing ever was, and extinction was inevitable. But even a chance...
  4790. [00:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> Master Ludwig!
  4791. [00:42] * [GM]Ludwig pushes away as suddenly as he came, gripping Cerise's arms too tightly to allow any thought of escape, staring at her with eyes too intensely serious to be entirely sane.
  4792. [00:42] <[GM]Ludwig> That was an order, Cerise Reno, from your master. If I fall, take her by force if you have to and go. Do you understand?
  4793. [00:43] * [Pyg]Cerise grudgingly returns a look to her master, nodding.
  4794. [00:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...I understand, Master.
  4795. [00:44] * [GM]Ludwig relaxes his grip to almost nothing and leans his head forward onto the maid's chest.
  4796. [00:46] <[GM]Ludwig> It isn't an order you want to carry out, I know... it isn't one I wanted to give, either. But...
  4797. [00:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> I won't have to carry it out if we do our job, Master. Have a little more faith in us. We'll pull through this. Together!
  4798. [00:48] * [GM]Ludwig apparently started crying at some point in this conversation: the tracks of his tears are easily traced up his face to their source.
  4799. [00:49] * [Pyg]Cerise puts a hand on Ludwig's head.
  4800. [00:50] <[GM]Ludwig> It's...
  4801. [00:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> A boy your age shouldn't worry about that.
  4802. [00:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'd feel better if you were still concerned about getting Mary to like you.
  4803. [00:51] * [GM]Ludwig laughs and lets Cerise go completely to wipe under his eyes.
  4804. [00:52] <[GM]Ludwig> So would I.
  4805. [00:53] <[GM]Ludwig> But... it's not a luxury I can afford, anymore. Perhaps soon, but not now.
  4806. [00:55] <[GM]Ludwig> At least she'll be safe...
  4807. [00:56] * [GM]Ludwig clears his throat and straightens his posture, arranging himself back into something resembling presentable.
  4808. [00:56] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... anyway.
  4809. [00:58] <[GM]Ludwig> I suppose... you ought to finish your rounds.
  4810. [00:59] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, I should.
  4811. [01:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, well...
  4812. [01:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> You should check up on our guest or something. I'll let the control room know if anything arises.
  4813. [01:03] * [GM]Ludwig just stands there awkwardly for a second.
  4814. [01:03] <[GM]Ludwig> R... right. Good idea.
  4815. [01:03] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll let you get to it, then.
  4816. [01:03] <[GM]Ludwig> Th... thank you.
  4817. [01:03] * [Pyg]Cerise bows to Ludwig as he makes his exit.
  4818. [01:03] * [GM]Ludwig stays another second, then is gone back down the stairs.
  4819. [01:04] <[GM]Ludwig> [Fade to black.]
  4820. [01:04] <[GM]Ludwig> [Aaaaaand scene.]
  4821. [01:05] <[Pyg]Cerise> EEEWW EWWWW EWWWW A BOY TOUCHED ME EEUUUGGGHHHH!!
  4822. [01:05] <[Gtz]Mary> You might think it's gross now, but in a few years it'll be all you ever think about.
  4823.  
  4824.  
  4825.  
  4826.  
  4827.  
  4828.  
  4829.  
  4830.  
  4831.  
  4832. @@---
  4833. @@=====
  4834. @@Session Ten
  4835. @@=====
  4836. @@---
  4837.  
  4838. [00:05] <[GM]Tetro> [HUZZAH]
  4839. [00:05] <[Gtz]Mary> [FUCK YEAR]
  4840. [00:05] <[GM]Tetro> [BF BICHEZ]
  4841. [00:06] <[PB]Teilya> [~&#9829;]
  4842. [00:06] <[PB]Teilya> [~&#9829;]
  4843. [00:06] <[PB]Teilya> [Better~]
  4844. [00:06] <[Gtz]Mary> [goddammit, so much drama, so little time]
  4845. [00:06] <[kiri]Hans> [whee~]
  4846. [00:07] <[GM]Tetro> [Dune, Kirin, and Wriggle to the set!]
  4847. [00:11] <[kiri]Hans> [Roger!]
  4848. [00:12] <[Dune]Sam> [Order Acknowledged!]
  4849. [00:12] <[Gtz]Mary> [did someone say bath?]
  4850. [00:13] <[Nom]Alexis> [Get back in your hole]
  4851. [00:13] <[Gtz]Mary> [holier than thou]
  4852. [00:13] <[GM]Tetro> [NO BATHS]
  4853. [00:14] <[GM]Tetro> [You're clean enough]
  4854. [00:14] <[Nom]Alexis> [She's been tainted]
  4855. [00:14] <[Gtz]Mary> [nonsense. Frilly pink panties makes a clean girl dirty five times as fast.]
  4856. [00:15] <[Nom]Alexis> [I don't care for your fashion. The sweet, chaste, Mary is dead. Dead!]
  4857. [00:16] <[PB]Teilya> [Time for a cup of tea~]
  4858. ---
  4859. @@Part One: Teilya, Sam, Hans, & Ludwig and Cerise
  4860. ---
  4861. [00:17] * [kiri]Hans groan in pain, and slightly open his eyes. 'Where the fuck I am? This place is clean...' He thinks.
  4862. [00:18] * [kiri]Hans try to move around, but found himself restrained. He's quite annoyed with that fact.
  4863. [00:23] * [Dune]Sam notices the man's movement, and starts slightly.
  4864. [00:23] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah?
  4865. [00:23] * [Dune]Sam then carefully walks over to inspect him more closely.
  4866. [00:24] <[kiri]Hans> Hey you. Get this strap thing offa me.
  4867. [00:30] * [Dune]Sam responds a little softly.
  4868. [00:31] <[Dune]Sam> sorry, ah...
  4869. [00:33] * [Dune]Sam looks around a bit for Teilya, but then remembers she left.
  4870. [00:34] * [kiri]Hans gives Sam an angry glare, and left his right arm, the only one that left. Showing restraints.
  4871. [00:35] <[kiri]Hans> I only have one arm, god damn. No need to rob me my freedom that's already low enough.
  4872. [00:36] * [PB]Teilya walks into the scene at that moment, having just finished her tea and decided to check up on Sam.
  4873. [00:37] * [Dune]Sam quickly turns to Teilya, addressing her.
  4874. [00:37] <[Dune]Sam> Teilya, he's awake.
  4875. [00:37] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm? Oh...well, put him back to sleep, he needs to rest till whatever's left of him heals.
  4876. [00:38] <[kiri]Hans> No, wait! Jesus god fucking dammit! I have enough sleep for a week now!
  4877. [00:39] <[kiri]Hans> I need to see that girl, though. The one at the wall back then. Where's she?
  4878. [00:40] * [kiri]Hans sees Teilya. He squint his eyes, trying to remember something.
  4879. [00:40] <[PB]Teilya> Now now, I'm the doctor here and I say you need to sleep, and that's what you'll be doing.
  4880. [00:40] <[kiri]Hans> And I think I saw you before.....
  4881. [00:40] * [PB]Teilya pressed a button.
  4882. [00:40] <[PB]Teilya> Sleep tight~
  4883. [00:40] * [Dune]Sam stands aside, letting the doctor and patient talk.
  4884. [00:40] <[kiri]Hans> Well fu----!!
  4885. [00:40] * [kiri]Hans sleeps again, goddamnit.
  4886. [00:41] * [PB]Teilya pushes another button, and the sedative is injected into the man's body.
  4887. [00:43] <[GM]Tetro> [Satisfied, Teilya bustles out again on some other errand.]
  4888. [00:43] <[GM]Tetro> [Ok, you're clear]
  4889. [00:44] * [kiri]Hans Grit his teeth. 'LIKE I'M GOING TO SLEEP AGAIN AFTER ALL THIS SHIT, BITCH! YOU DON'T KNOW ME YET!'
  4890. [00:44] * [kiri]Hans wake up again. He's a little bit slur, but his five sense still intact.
  4891. [00:44] <[kiri]Hans> Mnnngh--- what the hell?!
  4892. [00:45] <[kiri]Hans> Seereeeeeousli.... bitchin'..... what... the .....HELL!
  4893. [00:45] * [Dune]Sam apologizes meekly from a safe distance as she approaches the button Teilya just hit.
  4894. [00:46] <[Dune]Sam> S-sorry we have to keep you like that...
  4895. [00:46] <[kiri]Hans> Ey. You're not.... that girl before....
  4896. [00:47] * [kiri]Hans sigh
  4897. [00:48] * [Dune]Sam responds in slight confusion.
  4898. [00:48] <[Dune]Sam> eh?
  4899. [00:48] <[kiri]Hans> I mean, shit. I just wanna go see that girl and thanks her. She's this place's boss, right?
  4900. [00:49] <[kiri]Hans> Agh, head's spinnin'. That one got a habit of drugging helpless people or what?
  4901. [00:51] * [Dune]Sam speaks a little more clearly, now.
  4902. [00:51] <[Dune]Sam> ah...
  4903. [00:51] <[Dune]Sam> y-yes, she's the one who operated on you.
  4904. [00:51] <[Dune]Sam> i think she just wants you to just rest and recover, though...
  4905. [00:52] <[kiri]Hans> No kiddin'. I see through that sime of hers.
  4906. [00:52] <[kiri]Hans> *smile
  4907. [00:52] <[kiri]Hans> That one seriously want me to shut the fuck up and die already.
  4908. [00:55] * [Dune]Sam replies hurriedly and nervously.
  4909. [00:55] <[Dune]Sam> n-no! no one wants you to die...
  4910. [00:55] <[kiri]Hans> well, if you say so.
  4911. [00:56] * [kiri]Hans rest his head on the pillow. He don't care about the restraint now. This girl's useless.
  4912. [00:56] <[kiri]Hans> anyway, you're on of the staff?
  4913. [00:58] <[Dune]Sam> i guess so.
  4914. [00:59] <[kiri]Hans> what's this place, really. Rich guy's fortress?
  4915. [01:00] <[kiri]Hans> such a nifty place. While we're crawlin' in the mudhole scavenge for food and gears, you got yerself a nice, hot food and a good place to stay.
  4916. [01:01] * [kiri]Hans look at where his left arm should be, reminiscing...
  4917. [01:01] * [Dune]Sam fidgets a little, and shifts uncomfortably.
  4918. [01:02] <[kiri]Hans> If you just let the other survivors in, we won't have to live a harsh life like we did.
  4919. [01:02] <[kiri]Hans> and more people will stay alive.
  4920. [01:03] * [Dune]Sam recalls that apparently someone died defending her before she came to the fortress, and is remorseful.
  4921. [01:03] <[Dune]Sam> ah, i really don't know anything about this place.
  4922. [01:03] <[kiri]Hans> Eh. I shouldn't do that. Not yer fault or anythin'. Sorry, lass.
  4923. [01:04] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, you're welcome...
  4924. [01:04] <[kiri]Hans> I'll just behave. Go tell the boss girl I'm awake and want to thanks her.
  4925. [01:04] * [Dune]Sam remains at a small distance while conversing with the man.
  4926. [01:05] * [Dune]Sam nods, and makes her way out of the medical room.
  4927. [01:05] <[Dune]Sam> alright, then.
  4928. [01:06] * [kiri]Hans chuckles a bit. 'good girl. It's gonna be nice having this kinda person back at the survivor's camp.'
  4929. [01:08] * [Dune]Sam now emerges into a section of hallway immediately outside the medical room, and realizes she has no idea where Teilya has gone.
  4930. [01:09] <[Dune]Sam> ah, where is she...?
  4931. [01:13] * [Dune]Sam cannot think of any other option to choose, and so closes her eyes, pointing out in front of her...
  4932. [01:13] * [Dune]Sam and then spins in place, waiting to come to a stop until opening her eyes.
  4933. [01:14] * [PB]Teilya walks out of her room, carrying two mugs, and sees Sam spinning.
  4934. [01:14] * [Dune]Sam looks upon an apparently empty and unknown stretch of hallway, not seeing anyone in front of her.
  4935. [01:14] <[PB]Teilya> Nya?
  4936. [01:15] * [Dune]Sam does not notice Teilya behind her, and so begins musing to herself.
  4937. [01:15] <[Dune]Sam> ah, i guess this's as good as any...
  4938. [01:16] * [PB]Teilya walks up and taps Sam's shoulder with her tail.
  4939. [01:18] * [Dune]Sam feels a light and soft tapping on her shoulder, but is greatly startled regardless of its lack of force.
  4940. [01:18] <[Dune]Sam> YAAAH~!
  4941. [01:18] * [Dune]Sam whirls around, and in doing so, falls to the ground.
  4942. [01:19] * [PB]Teilya is startled by the sudden movement, causing the hot content of the mugs to spill on her hands.
  4943. [01:19] <[PB]Teilya> Ow ow ow!
  4944. [01:20] * [PB]Teilya quickly puts the mugs on a nearby vase stand, and extends a hand to Sam.
  4945. [01:21] <[Dune]Sam> ah...
  4946. [01:21] <[PB]Teilya> Ow ow...sorry about that Sam, are you alright?
  4947. [01:21] * [Dune]Sam sits on the ground, essentially all of her legs visible due to her uniform's miniskirt.
  4948. [01:22] <[Dune]Sam> o-ow, i'm fine...
  4949. [01:23] * [Dune]Sam slowly moves her hand to take Teilya's, accepting the assistance to get up.
  4950. [01:24] * [PB]Teilya pulls Sam back onto her feet and aids in patting the dust out, noting that the skirt seems a bit too short for comfort.
  4951. [01:24] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm, we need to get you a new skirt, this one's a bit too short, don't you think>
  4952. [01:25] <[PB]Teilya> ?*
  4953. [01:25] * [Dune]Sam responds a bit bashfully.
  4954. [01:25] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, it's what was there...
  4955. [01:27] <[PB]Teilya> Well...hmm, I guess I'll just have to sew a new one for you then nya.
  4956. [01:29] * [Dune]Sam blushes at Teilya's kind offer, but speaks in defense of her current attire. (i don't want to make more work for her...)
  4957. [01:30] <[Dune]Sam> t-that would be nice, but...
  4958. [01:30] <[Dune]Sam> you shouldn't have to go out of your way for me...
  4959. [01:32] * [PB]Teilya gives Sam a smile as she retrieve the two mugs and hands one over to her.
  4960. [01:33] <[PB]Teilya> It's alright nya, I don't mind.
  4961. [01:33] * [Dune]Sam blushes slightly more at Teilya's smile, but returns the gesture and takes the mug.
  4962. [01:35] * [Dune]Sam also ventures to ask how Sam is, no less nervously.
  4963. [01:35] <[Dune]Sam> a-are you alright?
  4964. [01:35] <[Dune]Sam> that looked hot...
  4965. [01:36] * [PB]Teilya shook her head, then gestures for them to start walking.
  4966. [01:36] <[PB]Teilya> I'm fine, just a bit of heat wouldn't do much to me.
  4967. [01:37] <[PB]Teilya> Gives me a scare, but that's it, I mean, I had been in worse situations.
  4968. [01:38] <[Dune]Sam> ah, that's good...
  4969. [01:38] * [Dune]Sam begins walking with Teilya, but then remembers why she exited the medical room in the first place.
  4970. [01:39] * [Dune]Sam calms down as she speaks, now.
  4971. [01:39] <[Dune]Sam> ah, that man wanted to thank you.
  4972. [01:40] * [PB]Teilya blinks.
  4973. [01:40] <[PB]Teilya> Thank me? I seriously doubt it nya.
  4974. [01:42] * [Dune]Sam ponders for a moment.
  4975. [01:43] <[Dune]Sam> he said 'boss lady' i guess, and i thought that meant you, 'cause you helped heal him...
  4976. [01:43] * [Dune]Sam 's voice trails off towards the end of her statement.
  4977. [01:44] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm...I really don't think he means me, since we're kind of on each other's throat since some time ago...
  4978. [01:45] * [Dune]Sam 's head tilts to the side, and she asks in a curious tone.
  4979. [01:45] <[PB]Teilya> Nya~, he probably means Mary.
  4980. [01:45] <[Dune]Sam> you two know each other?
  4981. [01:46] * [PB]Teilya laughs nervously.
  4982. [01:46] <[PB]Teilya> Nya...somehow he sees me as a bug and tried to kill me, more than a few times too, when nya and Cerise were out gathering supplies...
  4983. [01:48] * [Dune]Sam 's face takes on a worried look.
  4984. [01:49] <[Dune]Sam> so that's why we had to restrain him...?
  4985. [01:50] <[PB]Teilya> Partly, mostly it's just that he's unstable mentally and we do it as a safety precaution.
  4986. [01:53] <[Dune]Sam> ah...
  4987. [01:55] * [Dune]Sam becomes silent, as they walk.
  4988. [01:56] * [PB]Teilya let the silence sink in, enjoying the quietness around the hallways.
  4989. [01:58] * [Dune]Sam relaxes as she sees Teilya relax, coming to enjoy the walk as well. And that tail really does look soft...
  4990. [02:00] * [PB]Teilya noticed Sam looking at her tail, and raises it to brush along the girl's face with a mischievous smile.
  4991. [02:02] * [Dune]Sam 's eyes widen slightly in surprise for a moment before a light blush returns to her face and she smiles.
  4992. [02:05] * [PB]Teilya returns the smile as she continues to walk along, taking an occasional sip from her mug.
  4993. [02:09] * [Dune]Sam begins taking longer strides next to Teilya, and begins lightly humming some newly-invented tune.
  4994. [02:20] * [PYG]Cerise appears around the corner, walking toward the infirmary. Is Teilya all right?
  4995. [02:25] * [PYG]Cerise arrives at the door to the infirmary, giving it a few knocks before listening for a response.
  4996. [02:27] <[PYG]Cerise> Miss Teilya? Are you in there?
  4997. [02:28] * [PYG]Cerise tries giving the doorknob a turn.
  4998. [02:39] <[PYG]Cerise> ...Not locked?
  4999. [02:39] * [kiri]Hans perks up. Someone's entering the room.
  5000. [02:40] * [PYG]Cerise carefully pushes the door open, waiting until the crack is open enough to slip her head and part of her shoulder through to peek inside.
  5001. [02:41] * [kiri]Hans spots the girl.
  5002. [02:42] <[kiri]Hans> Hey there, boss. how's going?
  5003. [02:43] * [PYG]Cerise doesn't relax as she opens the door, allowing herself to step in. She remains wary of the man.
  5004. [02:43] <[PYG]Cerise> Where's the woman who was treating you?
  5005. [02:44] <[kiri]Hans> Oh? out to some errands, I guess?
  5006. [02:44] <[kiri]Hans> I tell the shy lass to go get you. You didn't see her around?
  5007. [02:45] <[PYG]Cerise> No, I came here to check on you. More importantly, aren't you supposed to be resting after all those injuries?
  5008. [02:46] * [PYG]Cerise her eyes seem to narrow as she speaks those last words.
  5009. [02:48] <[kiri]Hans> I'm a tough guy!
  5010. [02:49] * [kiri]Hans said it in a sincere, non-malice tone.
  5011. [02:49] <[kiri]Hans> Eh, if I'm not restrained right now omma beat my chest to ensure you o'that!
  5012. [02:50] <[PYG]Cerise> Now's not the time to try impressing me.
  5013. [02:50] * [Dune]Sam as they walk, she glances over towards Teilya and asks a simple question.
  5014. [02:50] <[Dune]Sam> so...how long have you been here?
  5015. [02:51] <[GM]Tetro> [Sam and Teilya into #maidrpg2, plox]
  5016. [02:52] <[kiri]Hans> anyway, I wanna thank you for saving me back then.
  5017. [02:53] <[PYG]Cerise> Don't thank me, thank my master. I had no intention of keeping alive back then.
  5018. [02:54] * [kiri]Hans gaze shifts to another one. 'So this girl is not the boss and somehow hostile towards me. Hmmm.....'
  5019. [02:54] <[kiri]Hans> and why is that?
  5020. [02:55] <[PYG]Cerise> You were going to kill me and my friend not too long ago.
  5021. [02:55] <[PYG]Cerise> I don't think I can make it any clearer than that.
  5022. [02:56] <[kiri]Hans> I never shoot a girl. Are you crazy?
  5023. [02:56] <[kiri]Hans> Like hell imma gonna shoot fellow human race.
  5024. [02:56] <[kiri]Hans> we're as low in population as it is.
  5025. [02:57] <[PYG]Cerise> I don't care. I almost died back there! You and your damn scavenger friends!
  5026. [02:58] * [kiri]Hans also raise his voice.
  5027. [02:58] <[kiri]Hans> So how the fuck I can apologize for what I did not do!?
  5028. [02:58] * [PYG]Cerise almost slips her rifle off of her shoulder but tries to maintain her composure.
  5029. [02:59] <[PYG]Cerise> Don't bother, I don't ever intend to forgive you for that. Get it through your damn skull already.
  5030. [02:59] <[kiri]Hans> And don't you DARE dishonor my friend! They are my brother in arms!
  5031. [03:00] <[kiri]Hans> Well fuck you then. It's not like I aim to please you and your rotten attitude anyway!
  5032. [03:03] <[PYG]Cerise> Very well. As a maid of this fortress, I may be obligated to protect you while you're here, but once you leave and I find you out there pointing a gun at me. Know that I won't think twice putting you down.
  5033. [03:03] * [PYG]Cerise is already very agitated and turns on her heel, stepping out the door and shutting it behind her.
  5034. [03:04] <[kiri]Hans> Tch. Like hell I care.
  5035. [03:04] <[kiri]Hans> You'll die trying that anyway.
  5036. [03:31] * [PYG]Cerise takes a few deep breaths before wandering the hall again.
  5037. [03:32] * [GM]Ludwig appears from around the next corner and turns towards Cerise without seeming to notice her immediately.
  5038. [03:34] * [PYG]Cerise bumps right into Ludwig, staggering backwards but not completely falling down.
  5039. [03:34] <[PYG]Cerise> Wahh!
  5040. [03:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Whoa!
  5041. [03:34] * [GM]Ludwig turns himself into the wall and hits it relatively softly.
  5042. [03:35] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, sorry! I should've been watching where I was going...
  5043. [03:35] * [PYG]Cerise bows apologetically.
  5044. [03:35] <[PYG]Cerise> No, Master Ludwig, I should have been more aware of your footsteps.
  5045. [03:36] <[PYG]Cerise> I apologize.
  5046. [03:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Now, that's not necessary... no harm, no foul, in any case.
  5047. [03:37] * [GM]Ludwig straightens up and dusts the back of his pants absently.
  5048. [03:37] <[GM]Ludwig> Your patrol was uneventful, I hope?
  5049. [03:38] <[PYG]Cerise> Nothing new, sir.
  5050. [03:39] * [GM]Ludwig twitches on corner of his mouth upwards and remarks drily:
  5051. [03:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, that's good... in its own way.
  5052. [03:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Are you busy, now?
  5053. [03:41] <[PYG]Cerise> Is there another task you'd like me to take care of?
  5054. [03:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Not... really a task, no. But I would like to continue our conversation from earlier... I'm afraid I may not have made my question clear.
  5055. [03:43] <[PYG]Cerise> O-oh, that? Err, yes, I suppose.
  5056. [03:45] * [GM]Ludwig turns and heads back down the hallway the way he came, slowly.
  5057. [03:45] * [PYG]Cerise follows the master.
  5058. [03:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise, you were... hm?
  5059. [03:47] * [GM]Ludwig looks up at his side, then back behind him.
  5060. [03:48] * [GM]Ludwig beckons Cerise forward.
  5061. [03:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Come on, this hall is wide enough for both of us.
  5062. [03:49] * [PYG]Cerise continues after Ludwig.
  5063. [03:49] * [GM]Ludwig frowns a little, then shrugs and continues on.
  5064. [03:50] <[PYG]Cerise> I was what, Master?
  5065. [03:51] <[GM]Ludwig> You were alone last night, with... um, well, it's a dumb way to put it, but you were alone last night with Mary and Sam.
  5066. [03:51] <[PYG]Cerise> Oh, yes, that's right.
  5067. [03:53] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm not digging for gossip or anything, but I want to know if anything happened between the two of them.
  5068. [03:53] * [GM]Ludwig pauses.
  5069. [03:53] <[GM]Ludwig> [Never mind, no he doesn't. I don't actually have anything to add to that.]
  5070. [03:55] <[GM]Ludwig> [The pause, I mean.]
  5071. [03:56] * [PYG]Cerise tries to recall that night, though she's worried Ludwig might catch he face turning a little pink.
  5072. [03:59] <[PYG]Cerise> Oh!
  5073. [04:00] * [PYG]Cerise finally recalls something very strange from that night. Yes, that was odd indeed.
  5074. [04:02] <[PYG]Cerise> It happened a long while before the crack of dawn. I got up to get a drink of water...
  5075. [04:03] * [GM]Ludwig starts to slow down unconciously, listening intently.
  5076. [04:05] <[PYG]Cerise> Afterwards, I come back. The room was still dark, but I'm pretty sure I saw Mary and Sam just standing there...Looking at each other. I didn't think twice about it because I was really tired so I just dropped down right into bed.
  5077. [04:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Looking at each other?
  5078. [04:06] * [GM]Ludwig speaks slowly and without inflection.
  5079. [04:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Pardon me for stating the obvious, but Mary is blind. How could you come to think she was looking at Sam?
  5080. [04:08] <[PYG]Cerise> Well, Mary was standing right in front of her. Maybe they were speaking, but I don't remember hearing anything.
  5081. [04:08] <[PYG]Cerise> It just looked like that to me. I didn't forget Mary is blind.
  5082. [04:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Of course not...
  5083. [04:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Both standing, facing each other?
  5084. [04:09] * [GM]Ludwig is hardly moving forward at all now.
  5085. [04:09] <[PYG]Cerise> That's what it looked like...Wait...
  5086. [04:09] <[PYG]Cerise> Do you...Know something?
  5087. [04:10] * [GM]Ludwig has gradually slowed to a stop and stands in place, head down, seemingly in thought.
  5088. [04:11] <[GM]Ludwig> I wonder...
  5089. [04:12] <[GM]Ludwig> ...if I might impose upon you further.
  5090. [04:13] * [PYG]Cerise seems a little worried now. What was that little scene all about? Surely there was nothing more to that, was there? Does that have to do why she hasn't seen Mary all day? No! Just jumping to ridiculous conclusions, that's all...
  5091. [04:13] <[PYG]Cerise> Wh-what do you mean, Master?
  5092. [04:14] <[GM]Ludwig> Would you... mind... if...
  5093. [04:14] * [GM]Ludwig forces words out of his mouth, making noise while his brain still tries to reach a decision.
  5094. [04:15] <[GM]Ludwig> ...I asked you to give up your bed to Sam?
  5095. [04:16] <[PYG]Cerise> Eh?
  5096. [04:17] <[PYG]Cerise> B-but she's already using Mary's bed, Master Ludwig...
  5097. [04:18] <[GM]Ludwig> That's not what I meant.
  5098. [04:18] <[PYG]Cerise> Then...
  5099. [04:18] * [GM]Ludwig turns around, looks Cerise in the eye, and steels himself.
  5100. [04:18] * [PYG]Cerise 's heart seems to think at the revelation.
  5101. [04:19] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm asking you to move.
  5102. [04:20] <[PYG]Cerise> I...see...
  5103. [04:21] <[PYG]Cerise> Th-then I suppose I should gather my things right now then?
  5104. [04:21] <[GM]Ludwig> At your leisure.
  5105. [04:22] <[GM]Ludwig> But yes, by tonight.
  5106. [04:23] * [PYG]Cerise seems to hesitate a moment, but finally speaks. Her voice steady, almost emotionless.
  5107. [04:23] <[PYG]Cerise> Then, is that all, Master?
  5108. [04:26] * [GM]Ludwig winces at the tone of her voice, but is able to restrain himself from breaking down into apologies.
  5109. [04:26] <[GM]Ludwig> ...yes. Thank you.
  5110. [04:27] <[PYG]Cerise> Then I shall do as you ask.
  5111. [04:28] <[GM]Ludwig> Good...
  5112. [04:28] * [PYG]Cerise walks past Ludwig, her usual light steps, sounding a little heavier than usual.
  5113. [04:28] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't turn, or move at all, as she leaves him behind.
  5114. [04:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Sorry...
  5115. ---
  5116. @@Part Two: Sam and Teilya
  5117. ---
  5118. [02:50] * [Dune]Sam as they walk, she glances over towards Teilya and asks a simple question.
  5119. [02:50] <[Dune]Sam> so...how long have you been here?
  5120. [02:52] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm...
  5121. [02:53] * [PB]Teilya angles her head up as she tries to remember.
  5122. [02:53] <[PB]Teilya> I can't remember really, I was here for a long time though, before the whole bug thing started.
  5123. [02:57] <[Dune]Sam> ah, wow...
  5124. [02:58] * [Dune]Sam speaks with some amazement, but it shifts quickly back to her earlier curious tone.
  5125. [02:58] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, what bugs, though?
  5126. [02:59] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm? Don't you k-oh, that's right, you probably didn't know about it...
  5127. [03:00] * [Dune]Sam looks a little sullen for a moment.
  5128. [03:00] <[Dune]Sam> S-sorry to be such a bother...
  5129. [03:00] <[PB]Teilya> It's um...a world apocalypse or something, around five years ago when the bugs overran pretty much the whole world. This fortress is one of the last bastion of humanity.
  5130. [03:00] <[PB]Teilya> Oh no no no, it's fine nya~
  5131. [03:02] * [PB]Teilya ponders on for a bit. She doesn't know much about it either, seeing as she never actually left the place until awhile ago.
  5132. [03:02] * [Dune]Sam nods slightly and silently.
  5133. [03:03] <[PB]Teilya> We try living on, with us protecting the citizen under our care. That's how it's been going since it happened, I think.
  5134. [03:05] * [Dune]Sam looks worried, and replies a little quietly.
  5135. [03:05] <[Dune]Sam> ah, i see...
  5136. [03:06] <[PB]Teilya> Well, it's not like we can really do anything about it, so don't worry about it, we'll deal with any threats that comes our way.
  5137. [03:07] * [Dune]Sam nods a little more confidently this time.
  5138. [03:07] <[Dune]Sam> this place seems safe.
  5139. [03:07] * [PB]Teilya smiles and nods.
  5140. [03:08] <[PB]Teilya> It is, nya. We hold the fort for so long now it's second nature to us, we'll be fine, I'll protect you.
  5141. [03:10] * [Dune]Sam blushes, and gives a light smile.
  5142. [03:10] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, thank you...
  5143. [03:11] * [Dune]Sam 's voice trails off towards the end of her comment.
  5144. [03:12] * [PB]Teilya brushes Sam's face softly with her tail, smiling as they walked.
  5145. [03:13] <[PB]Teilya> You know what? I'm kind of...happy you're here.
  5146. [03:14] * [Dune]Sam winks one eye upon the tail's touch, blushing slightly more but smiling still.
  5147. [03:15] <[Dune]Sam> E-everyone here so far has been really nice...
  5148. [03:15] * [Dune]Sam recalls earlier events, and amends her statement.
  5149. [03:15] <[Dune]Sam> except for that one scary lady...
  5150. [03:15] * [PB]Teilya nods in agreement, then chuckles at the following comment.
  5151. [03:18] <[PB]Teilya> Don't worry about her, she tends to get a bit wonky once in awhile, you'll get used to it.
  5152. [03:18] <[PB]Teilya> She'll warm up soon enough, I think.
  5153. [03:20] <[Dune]Sam> ah, thank you...
  5154. [03:20] <[PB]Teilya> Still, if anything happens, you can always find me. I'll help out any way I can.
  5155. [03:21] * [Dune]Sam smiles a bit more.
  5156. [03:21] <[Dune]Sam> t-thank you, yet again...
  5157. [03:22] * [PB]Teilya returns the smile with her own.
  5158. [03:23] <[PB]Teilya> Remember to find me if trouble arises, okay? I'll always be there for you, this is my promise to you.
  5159. [03:26] * [Dune]Sam tries speaking confidently, but it comes out with a touch of nervousness, as (recently) usual.
  5160. [03:26] <[Dune]Sam> I-i will.
  5161. [03:27] * [PB]Teilya nods cheerfully, then finished her now lukewarm beverage.
  5162. [03:28] <[PB]Teilya> Okay, now, where to?
  5163. [03:34] * [Dune]Sam puts a finger to her lip and ponders.
  5164. [03:34] <[Dune]Sam> umm, i dunno.
  5165. [03:35] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm...
  5166. [03:35] * [PB]Teilya thinks for a bit.
  5167. [03:36] <[PB]Teilya> Say, why don't we try and find the others? We can help get you used to the place at the same time.
  5168. [03:39] * [Dune]Sam nods.
  5169. [03:40] <[Dune]Sam> that sounds like a good idea.
  5170. [03:41] * [PB]Teilya bobs her head up and down a few times in a cheerful manner as she quickly pulls Sam along the hallways.
  5171. [03:42] <[PB]Teilya> First stop is the kitchen, we can put the mugs in the sink to be washed later nya~
  5172. [03:45] * [Dune]Sam trails just a little behind Teilya, the speed almost threatening her decency.
  5173. [03:47] * [Dune]Sam nods regardless, and retains a smile.
  5174. [03:47] <[Dune]Sam> a-alright..
  5175. [03:49] <[PB]Teilya> Great, let's go, it's this way~
  5176. [03:49] * [PB]Teilya quickly move along the hallways towards the kitchen area.
  5177. [03:52] * [Dune]Sam follows as quickly as her legs will take her.
  5178. [03:55] * [PB]Teilya slows down as she witness Sam trying to keep up, laughing nervously as she tries to apologise.
  5179. [03:55] <[PB]Teilya> Ah...um, sorry about that...I was, um, a bit too excited for my own good, I guess...
  5180. [03:57] * [Dune]Sam , panting, catches up.
  5181. [03:57] <[Dune]Sam> no, it's fine...
  5182. [03:58] <[PB]Teilya> Still, I shouldn't make you run like that, sorry.
  5183. [04:00] <[PB]Teilya> Let's just walk there, um, we have some time before lunch.
  5184. [04:01] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, let's.
  5185. [04:04] <[PB]Teilya> [Hmm, I can't think of anything to say...]
  5186. [04:04] <[Dune]Sam> [talk about lunch itself?]
  5187. [04:05] <[Gtz]Mary> [just have sex already]
  5188. [04:05] <[Dune]Sam> [ :| ]
  5189. [04:05] <[PB]Teilya> [...]
  5190. [04:05] <[GM]Ludwig> [Go make that skirt?]
  5191. [04:05] <[Dune]Sam> [ah, there's something, perhaps.]
  5192. [04:05] <[Dune]Sam> [although again, Sam has already said it would be unnecessary.]
  5193. [04:06] <[Dune]Sam> [Teilya could make it as a separate gift to Sam or something later, though~]
  5194. [04:06] <[PB]Teilya> [Well, your call, Dune~]
  5195. [04:07] <[GM]Ludwig> [Measurements must be taken~]
  5196. [04:07] <[PB]Teilya> [Ah yes, that too is important~]
  5197. [04:10] <[Dune]Sam> [It should be a fun scene, i think~]
  5198. [04:13] <[PB]Teilya> [Well~?]
  5199. [04:13] <[GM]Ludwig> [It's your skirt, ya dumb kittyhead]
  5200. [04:13] <[Dune]Sam> [~]
  5201. [04:14] * [Dune]Sam 's face tinges a very slight shade of pink as she fidgets slightly and walks with Teilya to the kitchen.
  5202. [04:15] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm, no one's here...oh? Ah! That's right!
  5203. [04:16] * [PB]Teilya opens up a drawer and pulls out a measuring tape.
  5204. [04:16] <[PB]Teilya> Here here, Sam, let's get the measurements done for your new skirt~!
  5205. [04:18] * [Dune]Sam is flustered, and resists slightly.
  5206. [04:18] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah! i told you this one works, already...
  5207. [04:19] * [PB]Teilya grins as Sam protests.
  5208. [04:20] <[PB]Teilya> Nyaha, then take this as a present from me then~
  5209. [04:20] * [PB]Teilya then rounds the tape around Sam's waist regardless.
  5210. [04:23] * [Dune]Sam blushes a bit and drops her head a little, but remains still.
  5211. [04:24] <[PB]Teilya> Good girl~
  5212. [04:25] * [PB]Teilya said in a sing-song voice as she continues to take measurements of Sam.
  5213. [04:28] <[PB]Teilya> Alright, let's see~
  5214. [04:29] * [Dune]Sam seems to be chewing at her lip, just a little, but she remains silent.
  5215. [04:29] * [PB]Teilya drops down some figures on a piece of paper, and looks up at Sam, noticing her flushed look.
  5216. [04:30] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm? Is something wrong?
  5217. [04:31] * [Dune]Sam shakes her head, instantly.
  5218. [04:31] <[Dune]Sam> n-no, nothing...
  5219. [04:33] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm~, are you sure~?
  5220. [04:34] * [Dune]Sam merely fidgets in place, this time remaining silent.
  5221. [04:36] * [PB]Teilya picks up a mischievous smile as she begin to measure the girl's thigh length, intentionally using her tail to pull one side of the tape and thus brushing down Sam's leg.
  5222. [04:38] * [Dune]Sam shivers just a tiny bit, and blushes some more for the fact that Teilya is fairly focused on her thighs at the moment.
  5223. [04:40] <[PB]Teilya> Hm hm~
  5224. [04:42] * [PB]Teilya does not disguise the fact that she's enjoying playing with the girl, as she commands her tail to sliver and press firmly onto Sam's thigh while she take the readings.
  5225. [04:43] * [Dune]Sam blushes even more, and drops her head slightly.
  5226. [04:45] <[PB]Teilya> My, you sure are getting red, are you really fine~?
  5227. [04:46] * [PB]Teilya then begin to measure the girl's chest, after all, might as well make a whole new outfit for her~
  5228. [04:48] * [Dune]Sam stammers out a response clearly contrary to what she says.
  5229. [04:48] <[Dune]Sam> y-yy-y-eah...
  5230. [04:48] * [Dune]Sam drops her head slightly to hide her face.
  5231. [04:49] <[PB]Teilya> Okay~, if you say so~
  5232. [04:54] * [PB]Teilya cheerfully and deliberately slides a finger along the measuring tape, knowing Sam can feel her every single gesture.
  5233. [04:55] * [Dune]Sam shivers slightly again and drops herself more, only having become more sensitized throughout this.
  5234. [05:00] <[PB]Teilya> Hm~, well, play time's over, I guess, there's nothing else to take anymore~
  5235. [05:01] * [PB]Teilya said with an overblown tone of sadness, then stands up, brushes up Sam's forward hair and planted a small peck there before dropping down the last of the measurements and put the tape back into the drawer.
  5236. [05:04] * [Dune]Sam fidgets quite noticeably now that she no longer needs to remain static.
  5237. [05:08] * [Dune]Sam manages to speak somewhat coherently, after a minute.
  5238. [05:09] <[Dune]Sam> a-u-um, thank you, i guess...
  5239. [05:10] <[PB]Teilya> That's fine, nya~
  5240. [05:11] * [PB]Teilya smiles as she turns back to Sam.
  5241. [05:12] <[PB]Teilya> Well, it's almost time now, so how about we start making lunch? I'm sure everyone would appreciate it.
  5242. [05:14] * [Dune]Sam manages some sort of smile as she slowly steps forward.
  5243. [05:14] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, i'm not very good...
  5244. [05:15] <[PB]Teilya> Nonsense, I'm sure you'll do great. Come on, let's get things readied!
  5245. [05:17] <[Dune]Sam> t-thank you...
  5246. [05:18] * [Dune]Sam nods, and resolves herself.
  5247. [05:18] <[Dune]Sam> yeah, let's try this.
  5248. [05:18] * [PB]Teilya gives Sam an encouraging smile as she takes out the necessary equipments.
  5249. [05:24] * [Dune]Sam then walks up to the counter and begins figuring out what does what, beginning the (preliminary, at least) preparations for lunch.
  5250. ---
  5251. @@Part Three: Alexis, Mary, and Cerise
  5252. ---
  5253. [03:01] * [Gtz]Mary fidgets with part of her skirt absentmindedly. Perhaps even absentbotheredly.
  5254. [03:02] * [Gtz]Mary perks up a little bit.
  5255. [03:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey, Alexis...
  5256. [03:02] <[Nom]Alexis> Hmm?
  5257. [03:03] * [Nom]Alexis has since gotten rather bored with lookout duty, and replies amidst the clicking of her knitting needles
  5258. [03:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Is the master- master Ludwig, that is, is he... Is he especially impressionable?
  5259. [03:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "What and odd question."
  5260. [03:07] * [Nom]Alexis pauses to think
  5261. [03:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Eheh, sorry, I shouldn't be asking about other people like that... You don't have to answer me.
  5262. [03:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, everybody wants to know about the master, dear. The famed Ludwig, young heir to the Beetlehoven house. He'd probably be a celebrity if everybody weren't dead and all."
  5263. [03:12] * [Nom]Alexis fishes for a new ball of yarn
  5264. [03:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Everybody, huh? Hm-hm, he isn't the only one.
  5265. [03:13] * [Gtz]Mary grins just a little bit.
  5266. [03:14] <[Gtz]Mary> After morning services today, I had quite a few boys come up and ask me who the pretty blonde girl is... I suppose that's you, right?
  5267. [03:15] * [Nom]Alexis has been caught
  5268. [03:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, er, lots of the girls that go were pretty. And blond. And not me."
  5269. [03:18] <[Gtz]Mary> But they already know all those girls~
  5270. [03:19] <[Gtz]Mary> They were asking about you~
  5271. [03:21] * [Nom]Alexis does not like where this conversation is going
  5272. [03:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's just a fad. They'll get over it. And didn't you have a question?"
  5273. [03:23] * [Gtz]Mary 's smiles fades, sighing and crossing her legs.
  5274. [03:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah...
  5275. [03:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Right, right, the master. Much more interesting. Juicy gossip."
  5276. [03:24] * [Nom]Alexis pauses again
  5277. [03:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "...What was your question gain?"
  5278. [03:24] * [Gtz]Mary twists her lip into a frown.
  5279. [03:25] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, never mind it.
  5280. [03:26] * [Nom]Alexis doesn't like the atmosphere either
  5281. [03:26] <[Nom]Alexis> "Don't be like that, dear, you'll make me feel responsible. Let Alexis hear what's on your mind."
  5282. [03:28] <[Gtz]Mary> There's... a lot of things on my mind right now.
  5283. [03:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "And keeping it there's unhealthy. You may not notice it, but you're going to ruin your pretty face with all that frowning."
  5284. [03:30] * [Gtz]Mary . o ( Cerise... Ludwig... Sam... the wounded man... Oh, lord, Cerise... )
  5285. [03:31] * [Gtz]Mary smiles in spite of herself.
  5286. [03:34] <[Gtz]Mary> Well... Have you ever been in a situation where no matter which way you turn, you know you'll end up hurting someone?
  5287. [03:35] * [Nom]Alexis makes visible effort to stop her jaw from hitting the war room floor
  5288. [03:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "How did--I mean, that's a sore spot to end up in, darling. What happened?"
  5289. [03:38] * [Nom]Alexis tries for genuine concern
  5290. [03:39] <[Gtz]Mary> I... better not talk about it...
  5291. [03:40] * [Nom]Alexis has since recovered, at ease that Mary wasn't asking about her personally
  5292. [03:40] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Does this have something to do with the master, Mary?"
  5293. [03:41] * [Gtz]Mary bows her head slightly, her expression obscured by her habit.
  5294. [03:44] * [Nom]Alexis looks like a little child who just killed someone with their April Fools
  5295. [03:44] <[Nom]Alexis> ("Uh oh, was it something I said?)
  5296. [03:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "All the more reason to tell me if it is, Mary. I swear I won't breathe a word of it to him. Really."
  5297. [03:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Hhmmh...
  5298. [03:48] * [Nom]Alexis realises this isn't working very well
  5299. [03:48] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  5300. [03:48] * [Gtz]Mary raises up and crosses her arms.
  5301. [03:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Nope! Sorry. This is just something I'll have to figure out for myself.
  5302. [03:49] * [Nom]Alexis gives up
  5303. [03:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "And here I thought we were friends, Mary. Ah, I'm crushed."
  5304. [03:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm."
  5305. [03:52] * [Nom]Alexis sits back, pondering that curious exchange just now
  5306. [03:53] <[Nom]Alexis> "You wanted to know about the master, right? How long have you known him now...?"
  5307. [03:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh... I'd say about a year now. What about you? How long have you been here?
  5308. [03:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Me?"
  5309. [03:58] <[Nom]Alexis> ("Stop asking about me, it's about you!")
  5310. [03:58] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, quite some time. Saw the master grow up, I did."
  5311. [03:58] * [Nom]Alexis puffs
  5312. [04:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, really? Hm, that's good to hear. Come to think of it, I don't really know much about you. What sorts of things do you like? What's your favorite food? Do you have any family in the village? Is there anyone you like?
  5313. [04:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Woah, woah, slow down, slow down, that's too much--eh?"
  5314. [04:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Do I?"
  5315. [04:04] * [Gtz]Mary grins after the inquiries. . o ( She sure likes to ask questions, but she's not one to answer them herself, is she? )
  5316. [04:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Mm-hmm~
  5317. [04:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh how, that means you have a special someone already, right?"
  5318. [04:05] <[Nom]Alexis> [*oh ho]
  5319. [04:09] * [Gtz]Mary just smiles broadly.
  5320. [04:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Of course. But that's not what I asked you~
  5321. [04:09] * [Gtz]Mary sighs, and puts her hands behind her head, switching her legs out to get more comfortable.
  5322. [04:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Buuuut I guess it's okay. If you don't want to tell me, that is. Girl's gotta have her secrets, right?
  5323. [04:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh yes. You must tell all. Who? When? Where?"
  5324. [04:11] * [Nom]Alexis leans in for juicy scoop
  5325. [04:11] * [Gtz]Mary sighs again.
  5326. [04:12] <[Gtz]Mary> You're not very much fun with this. If you keep playing so one sidedly, I'll just go get my Bible.
  5327. [04:14] <[Nom]Alexis> "Aw, don't hate me because I'm boring, loveless person, Mary."
  5328. [04:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright. Be back in a little bit.
  5329. [04:15] * [Gtz]Mary gets up and slowly starts off for her room.
  5330. [04:15] <[Nom]Alexis> "Noooo! Maaaary!"
  5331. [04:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, fine, fine. We'll play it this way."
  5332. [04:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "We'll take turns. And because I'm such a generous thing, I'll let you go first. Ask me anything."
  5333. [04:17] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm. I've decided I'm not interested. Maybe some other time.
  5334. [04:18] * [Gtz]Mary continues, trying to hide her grin
  5335. [04:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "Wait, wait!"
  5336. [04:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "We can deal! Really!"
  5337. [04:19] * [Nom]Alexis flails dramatically after Mary
  5338. [04:26] * [Gtz]Mary pretends not to notice and keeps walking.
  5339. [04:28] * [Nom]Alexis gets serious
  5340. [04:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok. You got me."
  5341. [04:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "You can ask two questions."
  5342. [04:29] * [Gtz]Mary can't manage to stifle a giggle, but keeps going all the same.
  5343. [04:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "Three! That's the last offer!"
  5344. [04:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Three questions, huh... hmm...
  5345. [04:41] * [Nom]Alexis grits her teeth
  5346. [04:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's a great deal. And you don't even need to sign anything."
  5347. [04:46] * [Gtz]Mary puts one hand on her hip and the other to her lip, contemplating the offer's value.
  5348. [04:47] * [Nom]Alexis has sweatdrops starting to form on her forehead, and she doesn't know why
  5349. [04:47] <[Gtz]Mary> hmm... I don't know... I kind of like a bit of mystery here and there.
  5350. [04:48] <[Gtz]Mary> Besides... I wouldn't want to make you tell something that you really didn't want anyone to know. Your secrets are your own.
  5351. [04:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "Come now, would I be so generous if I had anything to hide?"
  5352. [04:50] <[Gtz]Mary> If you didn't have anything to hide, you would have already told me, silly.
  5353. [04:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "Huh."
  5354. [04:51] * [Nom]Alexis concedes that's probably true
  5355. [04:51] <[Nom]Alexis> "Maybe I enjoyed the mystique as well. Need the dramatic reveal. Something like that."
  5356. [04:55] <[Gtz]Mary> haaah... What did you want to know again?
  5357. [04:55] * [Nom]Alexis stops dead
  5358. [04:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Huh. I forgot. Did you have a big secret you weren't telling anyone? Because I'd want to know that."
  5359. [04:58] * [Gtz]Mary brings her hand to her face and shakes her head.
  5360. [05:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Maybe some other time.
  5361. [05:03] * [Gtz]Mary continues onward to find her room, feeling the wall along the way.
  5362. [05:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Argh, you're such a stubborn girl!"
  5363. [05:03] * [Nom]Alexis collapses back in her seat with a 'Hmph'
  5364. [05:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Be like that then. My knitting's enough for me anyway."
  5365. [05:04] * [Gtz]Mary . o ( hehe, that was a little mean... I should apologize later. )
  5366. [05:04] <[Nom]Alexis> [Yarn sets on fire]
  5367. [05:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, getting annoying now."
  5368. [05:07] * [Gtz]Mary reaches her room a few minutes later, becoming aware of sounds of... well, it's definitely something.
  5369. [05:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise? Sam? Who's in here?
  5370. [05:08] <[PYG]Cerise> Oh, it's me, Mary.
  5371. [05:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey, darling. What're you doing?
  5372. [05:10] * [Gtz]Mary sits down on her bed and reaches under it, finding her braile bible right where she left it.
  5373. [05:10] <[PYG]Cerise> I'm...uh...
  5374. [05:11] * [PYG]Cerise hesitates a moment as she holds a half-folded dress shirt above luggage pack.
  5375. [05:11] * [PYG]Cerise sighs.
  5376. [05:11] <[Gtz]Mary> What's wrong, sweetheart? Come on, sit right here.
  5377. [05:11] * [Gtz]Mary pats the spare side of bed next her.
  5378. [05:12] * [PYG]Cerise finishes folding the shirt before going over to Mary.
  5379. [05:12] <[Gtz]Mary> You've been awfully distant today. Is it because of what happened last night?
  5380. [05:14] <[PYG]Cerise> N-no! Not at all...Just...my luck, I guess.
  5381. [05:14] * [PYG]Cerise strangely, keeps a half a foot distance from Mary while sitting on the bed, her hands simply resting on her lap.
  5382. [05:15] * [Gtz]Mary scoots over and puts an arm over her shoulders, smiling all the while.
  5383. [05:15] * [Gtz]Mary her = cerise, of course
  5384. [05:16] <[PYG]Cerise> Um...I'm not weird for...what happened last night...Am I?
  5385. [05:17] <[PYG]Cerise> I look back at it now, and a lot of it was all on impulse...
  5386. [05:18] <[Gtz]Mary> No, of course not, sweetheart...
  5387. [05:20] <[Gtz]Mary> Sometimes... people have feelings that they just can't ignore. That's how I felt when you left this room last night.
  5388. [05:21] * [PYG]Cerise seems to finally relax, resting her head by Mary's collarbone, her forehead touching Mary's neck.
  5389. [05:22] * [Gtz]Mary brings up a hand around Cerise's head, gently stroking her hair while supporting her.
  5390. [05:23] <[PYG]Cerise> Master Ludwig...Asked me to move out...
  5391. [05:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Move out?
  5392. [05:23] <[PYG]Cerise> ...O-of the room, I mean!
  5393. [05:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Really? Hm. Why?
  5394. [05:24] * [PYG]Cerise seems to pause a moment.
  5395. [05:24] <[PYG]Cerise> ...I don't know.
  5396. [05:24] <[Gtz]Mary> He didn't tell you? And you didn't ask?
  5397. [05:25] <[PYG]Cerise> Sam will stay in here with you from now on.
  5398. [05:25] * [Gtz]Mary purses her lip.
  5399. [05:25] <[Gtz]Mary> Where will you be staying?
  5400. [05:27] <[PYG]Cerise> Well, there are plenty of empty rooms around the fortress.
  5401. [05:27] <[PYG]Cerise> Won't take long for me to find one...
  5402. [05:29] <[Gtz]Mary> So he wants you to stay by yourself? That's not right. I'll go talk to him about this. If you still can't stay here, then you should probably go share a room with Teilya. Did he mention anyone else?
  5403. [05:30] <[PYG]Cerise> No, not really.
  5404. [05:31] * [PYG]Cerise chuckles weakly to herself.
  5405. [05:31] <[PYG]Cerise> I guess I should have expected I couldn't share a room with you forever...
  5406. [05:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Not if I can help it. I'm going to find out why, anyway. Must be something about Sam... hmm...
  5407. [05:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, anyway. There's something I got to talk to you about.
  5408. [05:36] <[Gtz]Mary> And I think you know what.
  5409. [05:36] * [PYG]Cerise doesn't move from her position, comfortable where she is.
  5410. [05:36] <[PYG]Cerise> What might that be?
  5411. [05:40] * [Gtz]Mary speaks much more quietly.
  5412. [05:42] * [PYG]Cerise gently pushes against Mary. Meeting no resistance, the pair just flop down onto the bed.
  5413. [05:42] <[Gtz]Mary> mmh..hahaha...
  5414. [05:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Last night. Tell me something, Cerise... Are you willing to dedicate to that? Like you really want it to be just me and you? Because I meant everything I said and did then, and I still do now. But, Cerise... if you have any doubts, I have to know. And I have to know now. Yesterday, I told Ludwig that if he grew up into a good man, I'd marry him. Then that happened, and I'm not sure what to do.
  5415. [05:44] * [Gtz]Mary talks slowly, but still manages to say everything at once.
  5416. [05:47] * [PYG]Cerise 's heart seems to sink a little further hearing about Mary saying she'd marry Ludwig. Her grip on Mary tightens slightly.
  5417. [05:47] <[PYG]Cerise> You...like him, too?
  5418. [05:50] <[Gtz]Mary> I adore the young master. He admitted to a crush on me as well, and I told him about my dreams of the future... But the fact of the matter is, I may have to tell him otherwise. I don't want to lead the poor dear on. Really, I feel as though I owe it to him... But now, if I were to go to him, it would hurt you, wouldn't it?
  5419. [05:54] <[PYG]Cerise> If...That somehow makes you happier...I wouldn't mind.
  5420. [05:54] * [PYG]Cerise is clearly lying as her voice wavers and she presses herself closer to Mary.
  5421. [05:54] <[PYG]Cerise> I-if you're happier that way...I won't mind at all...
  5422. [05:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes you would, you dummy.
  5423. [05:55] * [Gtz]Mary 's hand falls flatly on the dummy's forehead.
  5424. [05:55] * [Gtz]Mary sighs.
  5425. [05:55] * [PYG]Cerise flinches slightly.
  5426. [05:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig's still very young. But then again, so are you.
  5427. [05:58] * [Gtz]Mary continues to pet through her hair, making herself a bit more comfortable.
  5428. [05:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Hey, Cerise... Whatever happened to that Alexander you talked about?
  5429. [06:01] <[PYG]Cerise> He...Got married.
  5430. [06:02] <[PYG]Cerise> A couple of months back. My mother sent me her usual letters.
  5431. [06:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Mm. How old did you say he was?
  5432. [06:06] <[PYG]Cerise> He should be in his mid-twenties by now.
  5433. [06:07] * [Gtz]Mary smiles and shakes her head.
  5434. [06:08] <[Gtz]Mary> You've got some taste in age... But anyway, what I was leading onto was...
  5435. [06:08] * [PYG]Cerise can't seem to get any redder, but she does.
  5436. [06:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Remember how you said he thought of you as a little sister? To tell you the truth, that's kind of how I thought of you when we first became friends. A little sister I could be a big sister for. And I loved it.
  5437. [06:11] * [Gtz]Mary 's voice becomes more silent and dire.
  5438. [06:12] <[Gtz]Mary> I had always wanted a little sister...
  5439. [06:12] * [Gtz]Mary bends forward, gently kissing Cerise on the forehead.
  5440. [06:13] * [PYG]Cerise freezes a moment. A little sister. Is it rejection...Again?
  5441. [06:13] <[Gtz]Mary> You've been a really, really good sister to me... And I want to be everything I can be, more than a big sister, for you.
  5442. [06:15] <[Gtz]Mary> I love you, Cerise. No matter what happens, that'll never change.
  5443. [06:27] * [Gtz]Mary pulls herself and Cerise back up into a sitting position, and places her palms on Cerise's face, brushing the hair away and probably a tear or two.
  5444. [06:28] <[PYG]Cerise> You used to tell me....About how you'd like to be mother someday.
  5445. [06:28] <[PYG]Cerise> I remembered your face when you'd talk about it. It was a smile I'd never seen you have before.
  5446. [06:36] <[PYG]Cerise> Can you still be happy with me knowing that you'll give that up? ...That you'll never have a child to call your own?
  5447. [06:36] * [Gtz]Mary takes a deep breath and lets it all out.
  5448. [06:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise... You're not going to stop me from being happy. Though I admit, I've long since harbored dreams of having a family of my own, I don't see how I could possibly live up to it if I can't save what little family I have right in front of me.
  5449. [06:44] * [PYG]Cerise keeps her eyes gazed downward, raising her hands to touch Mary's.
  5450. [06:47] <[Gtz]Mary> I told you before, Cerise. I can't let you get away. If I did, I could never forgive myself.
  5451. [06:47] * [Gtz]Mary sadly smiles for a moment.
  5452. [06:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, tell me what you think of this...
  5453. [06:48] * [Gtz]Mary then brings her face close to hers making sure Cerise is facing her, and turns to kiss her cheek... and again, on the other side... once more, on the forehead... twice more, upon the bridge of her nose, giving a short giggle afterwards... then, before her lips, she hesitates. She swallows her hesitation away and brings her own lips to Cerise's.
  5454. [06:50] * [PYG]Cerise feels the warm pressure on her lips, responding with a firmer grip of Mary's hands and pushing her head forward a little.
  5455. [06:53] * [Gtz]Mary eventually breaks the kiss, moving her head past Cerise's and pulling her into a hug.
  5456. [06:55] * [PYG]Cerise rests her head on Mary's shoulder, breathing into her neck. She moves to give Mary a gentle peck.
  5457. [06:58] * [PYG]Cerise slides her hands up Mary's back, not waiting for her reaction from the first one proceeds to pepper Mary's neck with more soft kisses.
  5458. [07:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah... Cerise...
  5459. [07:03] * [PYG]Cerise continues her assault, moving up toward Mary's earlobe, which she holds gently between her teeth. At the same time, moving her knee upward between the gap in Mary's legs, until she reaches her intended stop.
  5460. [07:06] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Mmph! Ce-Cerise, what're you doing?
  5461. [07:06] * [Gtz]Mary closes her legs, or at least as much as will allow.
  5462. [07:11] * [PYG]Cerise begins to move her knee at a slow rhythm now that Mary's thighs are holding her there. She continues nibbling at Mary's ear as one hand finds its way to Mary's rising and falling chest.
  5463. [07:15] * [Gtz]Mary 's body begins tremble, and lets out a weak, whimpering sound as Cerise comes closer. She turns her head away, shutting her eyes to hold back tears.
  5464. [07:17] * [PYG]Cerise notices Mary turning away, her eyes shut tight. A horrible feeling swashes over Cerise. She immediately, pulls away from Mary, shifting backwards until she's half a foot away form Mary again.
  5465. [07:18] * [Gtz]Mary takes a deep breath and sits up, wiping away the tears. Her voice still shakes, but she speaks as strongly as she can in spite of it.
  5466. [07:19] * [PYG]Cerise , with a flushed face bearing a mortified expression, turns her gaze away from Mary, saving whatever dignity she still has.
  5467. [07:20] * [PYG]Cerise bites her lip. Too far, too far, too far, too far...
  5468. [07:22] * [PYG]Cerise balls her hands into clenched fists gripping her apron. You're horrible! How could you do that to her! You know she wouldn't be into that sort of thing! You went too far!
  5469. [07:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Is... Is this what it will take? Is this how far I must go to prove to you? Answer me, Cerise Reno. Because if this is it, then... I'll do it. I'll do whatever it takes, for you. For us.
  5470. [07:24] <[PYG]Cerise> n-no...
  5471. [07:25] <[PYG]Cerise> no no no....I'm sorry...I'm so sorry....
  5472. [07:26] * [Gtz]Mary breathes again, and her voice returns to her mostly normal soft tone.
  5473. [07:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise... come here.
  5474. [07:26] * [PYG]Cerise 's face is burning. Every bone in her body telling her to run now, but she remains still, closing her eyes. Like she was expecting a slap.
  5475. [07:29] * [PYG]Cerise doesn't move, trembling in place, still bracing for some sort of corporal punishment. That was such a bad idea! Why couldn't she control herself?!
  5476. [07:29] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Fine.
  5477. [07:30] * [Gtz]Mary crawls over to where she sensed Cerise leave, eventually crawling upon her figure. She embraces her and lets her weight carry them.
  5478. [07:31] * [PYG]Cerise flinches at Mary's touch. No! Stay away! I don't know what I might do to you! I don't want you to hate me! Don't hate me! Please!
  5479. [07:32] * [Gtz]Mary sighs with her in her arms.
  5480. [07:32] <[Gtz]Mary> ...I'm sorry, sweetie. I said too much.
  5481. [07:33] <[Gtz]Mary> But... you must have felt like that for a while now. I've really underestimated you...
  5482. [07:34] <[PYG]Cerise> i'msorryi'msorryi'msorryi'msorry....
  5483. [07:35] <[Gtz]Mary> Aww, it's alright, sweetheart... You just really surprised me... For a moment, I didn't think I could do it, but...
  5484. [07:38] * [Gtz]Mary pulls herself closer, placing a small peck on Cerise's brow.
  5485. [07:38] <[PYG]Cerise> No...! I took advantage...of...you. It was wrong...I'm so sorry...
  5486. [07:42] <[PYG]Cerise> B-besides...I can't stay in this room anymore.
  5487. [07:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Well... I lead you to believe I'd be anything for you, and at that moment, I thought I couldn't be. But... I think I can. I mean, it's with you, isn't it? I don't believe you could ever hurt me on purpose.
  5488. [07:45] <[PYG]Cerise> N-no, Mary. Y-you're not just something I can satisfy myself with...I...don't want to do that anymore.
  5489. [07:47] <[PYG]Cerise> Maybe...this will be a reasonable arrangement, after all.
  5490. [07:48] <[PYG]Cerise> I won't treat you this way if I'm not here with you...
  5491. [07:49] * [Gtz]Mary speaks sternly.
  5492. [07:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't talk like that. Now you are making me mad. If you think distancing yourself from me will save our relationship... You're wrong.
  5493. [07:52] * [PYG]Cerise bites her lip again, unable to come up with an argument.
  5494. [07:53] * [Gtz]Mary sets her chin atop Cerise's shoulder.
  5495. [07:54] <[Gtz]Mary> I'll admit, I wasn't ready for that... But I've made up my mind. If there ever is a next time... I'll be ready.
  5496. [07:56] * [Gtz]Mary gets up, tugging on Cerise's hand along the way, and sits down on the edge of the bed again.
  5497. [07:57] * [PYG]Cerise follows obediently, her eyes fixed to her feet with shame still lingering in her mind.
  5498. [07:58] <[Gtz]Mary> Sigh... You really know how to get a girl's poor heart racing. I'm going to sit here a few minutes, then I'll go talk to Ludwig about this new arrangement.
  5499. [07:59] * [PYG]Cerise replies with a simple nod.
  5500. [08:03] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, just a little bit.
  5501. [08:04] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Make sure you fix your dress before you head out, okay? Alexis might get some... ideas...
  5502.  
  5503.  
  5504.  
  5505.  
  5506.  
  5507.  
  5508.  
  5509.  
  5510.  
  5511. @@---
  5512. @@=====
  5513. @@Session Eleven
  5514. @@=====
  5515. @@---
  5516.  
  5517. [21:57] <[Gtz]Mary> [so, recap, or just go for it?]
  5518. [21:57] <[GM]Ludwig> [ZOOM]
  5519. [21:58] <[Gtz]Mary> [...mkay]
  5520. [22:00] * [Gtz]Mary Sits still for a moment, reclaiming herself before speaking to Cerise.
  5521. [22:01] * [PYG]Cerise has returned to packing.
  5522. [22:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise... wait.
  5523. [22:02] <[PYG]Cerise> Just in case...
  5524. [22:02] <[Gtz]Mary> You and I need to have a talk. A talk about us. Sometime tonight.
  5525. [22:02] <[PYG]Cerise> ...O-okay.
  5526. [22:03] * [PYG]Cerise is a little unnerved by how serious Mary sounds.
  5527. [22:04] <[Gtz]Mary> I want you to think about things a little bit. Then, we'll have a nice, long chat, how ever long it takes to sorts things out between us.
  5528. [22:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Is it alright with you to meet on the roof before bed time?
  5529. [22:05] * [PYG]Cerise 's brows wrinkle a bit, but she nods. Sort...things?
  5530. [22:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm?
  5531. [22:06] * [Gtz]Mary concerns over her silence.
  5532. [22:06] <[PYG]Cerise> Y-yes, of course.
  5533. [22:07] * [PYG]Cerise frowns at herself. She can't see you nodding, silly!
  5534. [22:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Okay then. I'm going to go see to our new guest, and then talk to Ludwig about a few things.
  5535. [22:09] <[Gtz]Mary> I might have to tell him about us. Is that alright with you?
  5536. [22:10] * [PYG]Cerise stops her current task, looking worried.
  5537. [22:10] <[PYG]Cerise> Um...D-does he have to know?
  5538. [22:12] <[Gtz]Mary> He doesn't have to know everything, of course. Some things between us are to be kept sacred. But if he asks, I will tell him that we love each other.
  5539. [22:12] * [Gtz]Mary smiles a little bit more, with her anxiety beginning to ease.
  5540. [22:12] <[PYG]Cerise> But he might be angry with me! After proposing to you and all...
  5541. [22:15] <[Gtz]Mary> He might be. But I won't lie to him. What I've done so far has already been quite unfair. I can't just say one thing and do another like that with a clean conscious. I'm sorry, dear.
  5542. [22:16] * [Gtz]Mary sighs.
  5543. [22:16] <[PYG]Cerise> At least you're the one telling him, he won't hate you for it, I think...
  5544. [22:17] * [PYG]Cerise takes a seat on the side of her bed, looking down at the floor.
  5545. [22:17] <[PYG]Cerise> If it was me...I...I'd probably get fired.
  5546. [22:17] <[PYG]Cerise> And then sent out.
  5547. [22:18] <[Gtz]Mary> Aw, come on now, Cerise, have a little more faith in him.
  5548. [22:19] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig, like you, is very intelligent for his age, including his emotions. If we take our time and talk things out, I think we can reach a common ground.
  5549. [22:22] * [PYG]Cerise shakes her head, trying to get her mind off of those thoughts and gets back to packing.
  5550. [22:24] <[Gtz]Mary> He's also quite young, like you. He may do something rash. But that's what I'm here for, to be sure that he grows up to be a good leader that can make good decisions.
  5551. [22:27] <[Gtz]Mary> sigh. I haven't been doing my job very well lately, have I... Oh well. Guess I'll just have to dust off my skirt and go for it anyway.
  5552. [22:28] * [Gtz]Mary stands up, brushing her hands across her skirt. It's one of those make-fun-of-yourself-things.
  5553. [22:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Are you going to be okay? Do you want to come with me?
  5554. [22:31] <[PYG]Cerise> I'll be fine.
  5555. [22:32] <[PYG]Cerise> I guess I'll just keep packing.
  5556. [22:37] * [Gtz]Mary frowns.
  5557. [22:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright... Just take care of yourself, okay?
  5558. [22:38] <[PYG]Cerise> ...I will.
  5559. [22:39] * [PYG]Cerise tries to smile at Mary, but again, realizes she cannot see it.
  5560. [22:39] * [Gtz]Mary can, in fact, hear a smile.
  5561. [22:44] * [Gtz]Mary smiles in return, and leaves in the direction of the Med Room.
  5562. [23:13] * [Gtz]Mary finds her way to the infirmary door, and knocks on it lightly, listening for a response.
  5563. [23:16] * [kiri]Hans voice his grouchy sound.
  5564. [23:17] <[kiri]Hans> "Yeah, yeah. Whoever it is. I'm not naked and you are free to abuse my body. Come on in."
  5565. [23:18] * [Gtz]Mary looks unamused at first, but then smiles at the poor fellow's ability to retain a sense of humor after his ordeal. She steps in and stands at the foot of the bed, eyes closed.
  5566. [23:20] <[kiri]Hans> "Yo, chocolat. What'd ya need?"
  5567. [23:22] * [Gtz]Mary purses her lips into a bent frown.
  5568. [23:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Maaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrryyyyyyyyy!"
  5569. [23:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Chocolate? I'm not sure if I should feel sweet or sour. Perhaps I ought to-
  5570. [23:24] * [Nom]Alexis bursts in, tearfully
  5571. [23:24] * [Gtz]Mary turns around, pulling the doo- nevermind, falls on her ass
  5572. [23:24] <[Gtz]Mary> Oof! What's the matter, Alexis?
  5573. [23:25] * [kiri]Hans shrugs. he could use some entertainment.
  5574. [23:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "You left me all alone, Mary! In the dark! In the cold! In the rain! We were supposed to be friends! Buddies! Stoically sitting in the war room, braving the boredom, needing nothing more than each other's company!"
  5575. [23:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, my soul--WAIT, I DON'T HAVE--my heart! How it aches!"
  5576. [23:28] * [Gtz]Mary looks genuinely remorseful, pulling her lip into a tiny frown and helping herself up.
  5577. [23:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Aww, I'm sorry, sweetie...
  5578. [23:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "I have been abandoned! Betrayed! To think that you left me to see another--"
  5579. [23:29] * [Nom]Alexis does a take on seeing Hans in the room
  5580. [23:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "--Who were you again?"
  5581. [23:30] * [Gtz]Mary completely forgets whatever Alexis was on about.
  5582. [23:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, yes! Sir, I've come here to tend to your needs. My name's Mary, and this is my friend here, Alexis. Could you impart your name as well?
  5583. [23:32] <[kiri]Hans> Oh hey there.
  5584. [23:33] <[kiri]Hans> The name's Hans. Hans McCartney.
  5585. [23:33] <[kiri]Hans> or as known as Einhander Hans.
  5586. [23:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, right. Hans, was it? I see, I see--"
  5587. [23:33] * [Nom]Alexis stops
  5588. [23:33] * [Nom]Alexis drags Mary to one side
  5589. [23:34] * [Gtz]Mary is dragged, heels pulling along
  5590. [23:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "So this was it?! It was him ?! You've been keeping some...man?!...in this room?"
  5591. [23:36] <[Gtz]Mary> ...
  5592. [23:36] * [Gtz]Mary looks very, very unamused.
  5593. [23:36] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis. We just introduced each other. Oh wait, you're joking, aren't you? Ah, I get it now. Hey, you want to help me here?
  5594. [23:37] * [Nom]Alexis may as well be blind as well
  5595. [23:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, I get it, Mary. I understand everything. I'll help you with everything. A maid can do no less."
  5596. [23:38] * [Nom]Alexis pulls out her handkerchief and dries her eyes
  5597. [23:39] * [Gtz]Mary doesn't quite understand what's going on here, but she said she would help, so that's a good thing!
  5598. [23:39] <[Gtz]Mary> Ahem! Right.
  5599. [23:39] * [Gtz]Mary turns back to Mister Hans
  5600. [23:40] * [kiri]Hans scratch his chin and pick his nose. Nothing to do, dayum.
  5601. [23:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Mister Hans, are you hungry or anything? I don't believe the others trust you much over your previous engagements, so I don't think I'm within right to release you just yet, however we'll at least give you a meal or anything else you need.
  5602. [23:42] <[kiri]Hans> I could use some rations, yup. But the most thing I need now is I need to move my body. It's getting stiff down here.
  5603. [23:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "Good to see that you enjoy this stuff as well, Mr Hans. Aren't you glad, Mary?"
  5604. [23:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Like I said, it's not my area of expertise. I wouldn't know how to get those off of you, anyway. You'd have to ask for Ludwig's permission and get Alexis to do it for you.
  5605. [23:45] <[kiri]Hans> Sorry, missy. If you are not a retard you should be able to tell that I'm not enjoying this. Not one bit.
  5606. [23:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sure you are. You just haven't got to the good part yet."
  5607. [23:45] <[kiri]Hans> .......what?
  5608. [23:46] * [Gtz]Mary puts her hands to her hips and sighs.
  5609. [23:46] * [Nom]Alexis leans in to whisper to Hans
  5610. [23:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "Chocolat, you brute? YES, I HEARD THAT."
  5611. [23:48] <[kiri]Hans> what? She's a delicious brownie chocolat. I'm not wrong on this. Sue me.
  5612. [23:49] <[Gtz]Mary> What're you two talking about?
  5613. [23:49] * [Nom]Alexis tightens Hans' restraints around the chest
  5614. [23:50] <[kiri]Hans> GAK!
  5615. [23:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, nothing dear. His libido is getting to him. Oh ho ho."
  5616. [23:50] <[kiri]Hans> WHAT? *cough* I'm just stating the truth!
  5617. [23:50] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Libido? Oh! That reminds me.
  5618. [23:51] * [Gtz]Mary catches Alexis by the arm and pulls her close.
  5619. [23:51] * [Gtz]Mary whispers a bunch of stuff.
  5620. [23:51] * [Nom]Alexis 's eyes widen
  5621. [23:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh? Oooooh! Got it. You count on me."
  5622. [23:52] * [Nom]Alexis winks to no one in particular
  5623. [23:53] <[kiri]Hans> I hope it doesn't involved me...
  5624. [23:53] <[Gtz]Mary> It doesn't. Very much so.
  5625. [23:53] <[kiri]Hans> cool.
  5626. [23:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "...It doesn't? Awww."
  5627. [23:54] * [Gtz]Mary turns back to Hans.
  5628. [23:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Now, if you behave yourself, I'll see what I can do about your restraints. However, if you keep bad-mouthing the people here, I'll just leave you in here to think about it.
  5629. [23:54] <[kiri]Hans> That was a compliment, dood!
  5630. [23:54] <[Gtz]Mary> [ew, that didn't come out the right way. oh well]
  5631. [23:54] <[kiri]Hans> Jeez!
  5632. [23:55] <[Gtz]Mary> "Retard" does not complement either I or Alexis. I'd prefer it if you didn't use that terminology. And if you do anyway, make sure I don't hear it, okay?
  5633. [23:55] <[kiri]Hans> Seriously, if you're going to lock me up like this just throw me into jail or something! I need to move my body!
  5634. [23:56] * [Gtz]Mary folds her hands together.
  5635. [23:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Please be patient.
  5636. [23:56] <[kiri]Hans> I AM a patient here, missy!
  5637. [23:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "And we have gags too, you know. Oh, won't you just love that one~"
  5638. [23:58] * [kiri]Hans sigh.
  5639. [23:58] <[kiri]Hans> Man, I got away from shitload 'o bugs just to meet another cruel fate. Woe is me.
  5640. [23:59] <[Gtz]Mary> Are we really that bad... Do you want something to eat or not? I've other business to attend to, you know.
  5641. [00:00] <[kiri]Hans> Yes please.
  5642. [00:00] * [kiri]Hans sigh.
  5643. [00:00] * [Gtz]Mary smiles.
  5644. [00:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Now that's more like it.
  5645. [00:00] <[kiri]Hans> Anythin's fine as long as it keep me full.
  5646. [00:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright, then. We'll be right back.
  5647. [00:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "...We will? Aww."
  5648. [00:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, if you wish to talk further, then I'll go ahead myself. In any case, I'm gone!
  5649. [00:03] * [Gtz]Mary pushes open the door and leaves towards the kitchen.
  5650. [00:03] <[kiri]Hans> yeah yeah yeah. Go do your maid-ey stuffs. I'm gonna stay here and do my patient-ey stuffs too.
  5651. [00:03] <[kiri]Hans> shit sux, man.
  5652. [00:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Whatever turns you on."
  5653. [00:04] * [Nom]Alexis rushes out the door
  5654. [00:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "Wait for me, Mary!"
  5655. [00:04] * [kiri]Hans chuckles.
  5656. [00:04] <[kiri]Hans> if I can use this right hand of mine, yeah.
  5657. [00:05] * [Gtz]Mary waits for Alexis.
  5658. [00:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Charming young lad, wasn't he?"
  5659. [00:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Quite. A feel a little sorry for him, though. He's lost a lot, and now he's in the care of strangers, some of which already don't like him... It's a scary, lonely feeling. It's how I felt at St. Anne's before coming here.
  5660. [00:09] * [Gtz]Mary speaks solemnly as she slowly walks along.
  5661. [00:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "Your bleeding heart is going to get you some day, dear. He's just a barbarian."
  5662. [00:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Perhaps so. Perhaps not. People change, Alexis. Someone's got to forgive somewhere, or else it's an endless cycle of the eye-for-eye mentality.
  5663. [00:13] * [Gtz]Mary stops.
  5664. [00:13] <[Gtz]Mary> And I'm out on eyes anyway, so it doesn't matter to me.
  5665. [00:13] * [Nom]Alexis does not know whether to laugh
  5666. [00:14] * [Gtz]Mary continues. I guess it wasn't that funny...
  5667. [00:15] * [Nom]Alexis gives an ambiguous chuckle just in case
  5668. [00:15] * [Gtz]Mary smirks. Well, at least she humored me.
  5669. [00:18] <[Gtz]Mary> [so yeah. the kitchen.]
  5670. [00:23] * [Nom]Alexis thinks about what Mary said while cooking
  5671. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm glad there are still people like you these days, Mary. But there's no room for softness in this world. If you give, you'll just get abused."
  5672. [00:29] * [Gtz]Mary speaks while boiling some water
  5673. [00:29] <[Gtz]Mary> That's true enough. Compassion opens you up to the hard hearts of the world, and it does hurt. But, I think it's worth it, in the long run. Only with an open heart can you truly receive another.
  5674. [00:31] * [Nom]Alexis falls silent again
  5675. [00:31] <[Gtz]Mary> I used to be like that, but I got tired of how lonely it was. Things may not hurt as much, but it doesn't really matter if you already feel dead on the inside... So I opened up.
  5676. [00:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "You could probably have gone without."
  5677. [00:32] * [Nom]Alexis adds a bag of slow acting laxatives to Hans' noodles
  5678. [00:34] <[Gtz]Mary> I went without for four years. That was enough for me.
  5679. [00:34] * [Gtz]Mary adds some things and doesn't notice what Alexis has done
  5680. [00:34] * [Nom]Alexis is a helper
  5681. [00:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, enough depressing talk. I think it's done!"
  5682. [00:40] * [Gtz]Mary finds a few dry biscuits and pours a glass of tea, setting them on a tray along with the noodles and what have you.
  5683. [00:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "You spoil that man."
  5684. [00:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? It's not that much, is it? I bet he's pretty hungry.
  5685. [00:43] <[Nom]Alexis> "Really, Mary, bleeding heart. Ah well, I guess it's your thing. Let's go."
  5686. [00:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm. I guess it is my thing, huh...
  5687. [00:45] <[Gtz]Mary> [etc etc, they return to the firm in mary]
  5688. [00:45] <[Gtz]Mary> [oh my!]
  5689. [00:46] <[kiri]Hans> [I bet that was intentional.]
  5690. [00:46] <[Gtz]Mary> [:|]
  5691. [00:47] * [kiri]Hans is staring blankly at the white ceiling, thinking about stuffs.
  5692. [00:48] * [Gtz]Mary enters.
  5693. [00:48] * [Nom]Alexis follows
  5694. [00:49] <[kiri]Hans> Hey.
  5695. [00:49] * [kiri]Hans notice the girls.
  5696. [00:50] <[Gtz]Mary> We're back. Hope you're hungry.
  5697. [00:50] <[kiri]Hans> I'd like to merrily wave my hand at you in joy, but too bad.
  5698. [00:51] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, well I'm sure Alexis would appreciate the display.
  5699. [00:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh ho, it'd be comedy! But right now, it's YOUR LAST MEAL--I mean, lunch."
  5700. [00:52] * [Gtz]Mary stands aside, as blind kids do not carry trays of food containing really hot liquid stuff. Spillage is estimated to be over an 85% chance.
  5701. [00:53] * [Nom]Alexis sets the tray on a desk near Hans' head
  5702. [00:54] * [kiri]Hans can only look at it. Poor him.
  5703. [00:55] * [Nom]Alexis just stands there
  5704. [00:56] <[kiri]Hans> om nom nom. Tasty food. I'm so full, damnit. om nom nom.
  5705. [00:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "Another job well done! Let's go, Mary."
  5706. [00:56] <[kiri]Hans> great.
  5707. [00:56] <[kiri]Hans> just.... great.
  5708. [00:57] * [kiri]Hans slump back into the bed. Doesn't say anything after that.
  5709. [01:00] <[kiri]Hans> Hey, missy. Do you have some cyanide so that I can kill myself already?
  5710. [01:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't encourage her.
  5711. [01:00] <[kiri]Hans> I mean... why did you keep me locked up like this?
  5712. [01:01] <[kiri]Hans> if you think I'm THAT dangerous. Just kill me. Throw me out.
  5713. [01:01] <[kiri]Hans> That's the way the wasteland is.
  5714. [01:01] <[kiri]Hans> That's the way I used to live.
  5715. [01:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Nah, we're doing it for your own good because you're obviously raving mad."
  5716. [01:02] <[kiri]Hans> You people, sitting your comfy ass in this secured fortress. You don't know my hardship.
  5717. [01:02] <[kiri]Hans> You don't know... how one have to be heartless to survive in a place like that.
  5718. [01:03] <[kiri]Hans> Such a nice place this fortress is, eh? While you live your life happliy here....
  5719. [01:03] * [kiri]Hans grit his teeth.
  5720. [01:03] <[kiri]Hans> People outside dies.
  5721. [01:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, stop your self pitying. The world has ended and you're alive. The dead don't need your excuses."
  5722. [01:03] <[kiri]Hans> They died by lack of food. Lack of water. Lack of weapons to defend themselves.
  5723. [01:04] <[Gtz]Mary> We know that, sir. This is why we've afforded you its protection.
  5724. [01:04] <[kiri]Hans> THEN JUST GIVE THEM AWAY!
  5725. [01:04] * [kiri]Hans yell.
  5726. [01:04] * [Nom]Alexis raises an eyebrow
  5727. [01:04] <[kiri]Hans> PEOPLE! OUTSIDE! THEY NEED IT! WHY CAN'T YOU SEE!?
  5728. [01:04] <[kiri]Hans> YOU SELFISH BUNCH OF ARISTOCRATS!
  5729. [01:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "It's like he almost /wants/ to starve
  5730. [01:05] * [Gtz]Mary speaks quietly.
  5731. [01:06] <[Gtz]Mary> There is no one else outside, Mister Hans. You and Sam are all we've come across for months.
  5732. [01:06] * [kiri]Hans stopped dead in his tracks.
  5733. [01:06] <[kiri]Hans> .......wha--?
  5734. [01:06] * [Nom]Alexis puts a hand on Mary's shoulder to make her stop
  5735. [01:07] <[kiri]Hans> What do you mean....
  5736. [01:07] <[kiri]Hans> I mean, even I can still stay alive. The other should, too.... There must be a settlement that's strong enough to fend them off---
  5737. [01:08] <[Gtz]Mary> I mean exactly what I said. We do search for survivors. You are part of the increasingly few we discover. Please do not take that for granted. People risk their lives to bring outsiders such as yourself safety.
  5738. [01:09] * [Gtz]Mary thinks of Cerise as she says this. Oh Lord, why must it be...
  5739. [01:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "There's no use trying to explain it, Mary. It's gotten to his head. The master should just have put him out of it."
  5740. [01:10] <[kiri]Hans> Hey... I mean... damn... at least Samoa village should be intact... It still in good shape when I left the place... I know its coordinate... I can tell you where! Can you go check that place! There must be a huge settlement there! LIKE IT ALWAYS BE!
  5741. [01:10] <[kiri]Hans> Let's go to the map room right now! I'll point you the location! C'mon!
  5742. [01:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Samoa...
  5743. [01:11] * [Gtz]Mary bows her head.
  5744. [01:11] <[kiri]Hans> Jesus, please! Please go check that place out! I beg you!
  5745. [01:11] <[kiri]Hans> There's people... there's a lot of people there!
  5746. [01:11] <[Nom]Alexis> "If it makes you feel better, we took in a bunch of them before it had to be sanctioned."
  5747. [01:13] <[Gtz]Mary> ...We've looked. I'm sorry, sir. There's nothing we can do.
  5748. [01:13] <[kiri]Hans> what... what do you mean there's nothing you can do?!
  5749. [01:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "Wasting your breath, Mary. He'll never understand how lucky he is."
  5750. [01:17] * [Gtz]Mary sighs.
  5751. [01:18] <[Gtz]Mary> We do what we can, but our reach has faltered. Sole survivors are incredibly rare, much more so an entire township.
  5752. [01:19] <[Gtz]Mary> But I still think there's hope... We've yet to restore communication to other continents. Maybe it isn't so bad on the other side of the world.
  5753. [01:19] <[kiri]Hans> Hey, miss....
  5754. [01:19] <[kiri]Hans> So there's no one left in Samoa when you arrived?.....
  5755. [01:20] * [kiri]Hans hide his face from the two. His hair covering his eyes so you can't really see his expression.
  5756. [01:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mr Hans, there was no one left in the /crater/ when we arrived."
  5757. [01:21] <[kiri]Hans> haha... so it was that bad.
  5758. [01:22] <[kiri]Hans> too bad, eh? After I left the place, it's been erased from the motherfucking world map.
  5759. [01:22] <[kiri]Hans> I'm pretty lucky there....
  5760. [01:22] * [Gtz]Mary bows more deeply. Her face is now obscured by hair and habit.
  5761. [01:23] <[kiri]Hans> So, miss... Alexis? If you please release my arm from the straps... I'd be helping myself with the food.
  5762. [01:23] <[kiri]Hans> I need food to survive. Even if I'm the only one left.
  5763. [01:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh? I thought luxuries like food were undeserved. I was sure that it was too good for you."
  5764. [01:24] <[kiri]Hans> Kind of pointless, haha. I wonder what's more painful... keep on living in this wretched world or....
  5765. [01:25] <[kiri]Hans> Whatever, miss. It's find. It's... pointless anyway... to keep on living.
  5766. [01:26] <[kiri]Hans> [*fine, drat.]
  5767. [01:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "By the flaming hells, man, angst on your own time. I have better things to do than to listen to you mope."
  5768. [01:27] <[Gtz]Mary> sigh... Hans, just eat your food for now. Alexis, please remove the bonds on his arm so he can eat. I've got matters to attend to with the master, and I've delayed enough already.
  5769. [01:28] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh are you ever lucky."
  5770. [01:28] * [Nom]Alexis releases a single arm
  5771. [01:28] <[kiri]Hans> .....thanks.
  5772. [01:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright. I'm come check on you in a little, Sir. Please think about what I said, in the meantime.
  5773. [01:29] * [Gtz]Mary exeunts, or whatever
  5774. [01:29] * [kiri]Hans nods. His mind is probably elsewhere.
  5775. [01:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "Thank, Mary, not me. If I had it my way you would be tranquilised again so we don't have to hear your rubbish."
  5776. [01:30] * [kiri]Hans nod again.
  5777. [01:30] * [Nom]Alexis can't leave fast enough
  5778. [01:34] <[GM]Mary> [Scene!]
  5779.  
  5780.  
  5781.  
  5782.  
  5783.  
  5784.  
  5785.  
  5786.  
  5787.  
  5788. @@---
  5789. @@=====
  5790. @@Session Twelve
  5791. @@=====
  5792. @@---
  5793.  
  5794. [01:20] <[Gtz]Mary> [so yeah. FOR THE REAL GAMES.]
  5795. [01:20] <[GM]Ludwig> [FO REALZ DAWG]
  5796. [01:20] <[Dune]Sarian> [PFF, YOU AND YUR REAL GAEMZ]
  5797. [01:22] <[GM]Ludwig> [Okay, so. After feeding Hans, I guess Mary goes to bitch out Ludwig about taking away her honeybunny. More or less?]
  5798. [01:22] <[Atai]Momo> [why does that sound adorable?]
  5799. [01:23] <[Gtz]Mary> [talkan about lots of things. you'll find out]
  5800. [01:23] <[Nom]Sadlexis> [because it is]
  5801. [01:24] <[GM]Ludwig> [Okay. Ludwig is in his room, studying.]
  5802. [01:25] <[Nom]Sadlexis> [How very...studious]
  5803. [01:26] <[Gtz]Mary> [such a good little boy~]
  5804. [01:26] * [Gtz]Mary approaches Ludwig's room, and knocks thrice on the door.
  5805. [01:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Enter.
  5806. [01:28] * [Gtz]Mary enters, finding her way around the room.
  5807. [01:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Good afternoon, Master. Have I come at a bad time?
  5808. [01:30] * [GM]Ludwig is seated at a wooden writing desk with a large book in front of him and several pieces of paper spread around the top of it. He finishes scribbling down some notation from the former onto one of the latter before turning around.
  5809. [01:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary! Not at all, not at all!
  5810. [01:30] * [GM]Ludwig is all smiles as he crosses the room to lead her into a chair.
  5811. [01:31] <[GM]Ludwig> Please, have a seat.
  5812. [01:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, thank you. Reading, are you?
  5813. [01:31] * [Gtz]Mary settles in
  5814. [01:32] <[GM]Ludwig> Mm. Must always keep the mind active.
  5815. [01:32] * [GM]Ludwig sits down across from her.
  5816. [01:33] <[GM]Ludwig> You... wanted to speak with me earlier. Is that why you've come, now?
  5817. [01:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmhmm. We got a lot of things to talk about.
  5818. [01:33] * [Nom]Alexis peeks into the room, commando style
  5819. [01:34] * [GM]Ludwig waits patiently, yet anxiously.
  5820. [01:37] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig... Have you noticed any... hmm... changes, lately?
  5821. [01:38] <[GM]Ludwig> Changes...?
  5822. [01:38] * [Nom]Alexis wildly signals from the entrance to try to get Ludwig's attention
  5823. [01:39] * [GM]Ludwig frowns and blinks, turning away momentarily in thought (so he misses the wavings).
  5824. [01:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... like what?
  5825. [01:40] <[Gtz]Mary> Within yourself, mostly, but also how you may perceive things... I'm not really sure how to touch on this...
  5826. [01:40] * [Gtz]Mary looks inquisitive
  5827. [01:40] * [Nom]Alexis starts mimicing bird calls
  5828. [01:41] * [Gtz]Mary perks up
  5829. [01:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? a whip-pour will?
  5830. [01:41] * [GM]Ludwig looks around at the window, but doesn't see any birds. Weird. Well, back to Mary.
  5831. [01:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, anyway.
  5832. [01:43] * [Nom]Alexis wishes she can hurt the master with the power of her mind
  5833. [01:43] * [GM]Ludwig senses a sudden wave of ill-intent from... the door? Hey, is that Alexis?
  5834. [01:44] * [Nom]Alexis puts down the encyclopedia that she was aiming at the master's direction, and tries to look innocent
  5835. [01:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Um. Hrm.
  5836. [01:44] * [GM]Ludwig ping-pongs from one maid to the other.
  5837. [01:44] <[Gtz]Mary> It's something everyone your age goes through, I guess, especially when you're... Master? Master Ludwig?
  5838. [01:45] * [Nom]Alexis puts a finger to her lips
  5839. [01:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... yeah.
  5840. [01:45] * [GM]Ludwig has one of those moments where a light bulb would appear over his head if he were living in a cartoon.
  5841. [01:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, this doesn't seem to be easy for you to say. Why don't I give you a couple of minutes alone to gather your thoughts?
  5842. [01:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, fine, I guess I'll just blurt it out.
  5843. [01:46] * [Nom]Alexis throws the encyclopedia anyway
  5844. [01:46] * [Gtz]Mary clears her throat loudly.
  5845. [01:47] <[Gtz]Mary> Master, I've come here to talk to you about...
  5846. [01:47] * [GM]Ludwig hops back from Mary and throws both hands desperately in the air. The large book freezes midway through its arc.
  5847. [01:47] <[GM]Ludwig> Hold that thought, sorry! Be right back!
  5848. [01:47] * [Gtz]Mary doesn't actually stop, but it- she stopped
  5849. [01:47] * [GM]Ludwig dashes around Mary's chair and through the door, slamming it shut behind him.
  5850. [01:47] <[Gtz]Mary> ...
  5851. [01:48] <[GM]Ludwig> What the HELL do you want?!
  5852. [01:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Can't it WAIT!?
  5853. [01:48] * [Gtz]Mary crosses her legs and pitches an ear. Oh, perhaps I'm found out~
  5854. [01:49] * [Nom]Alexis tries to look like a kicked puppy
  5855. [01:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'm trying to help, master."
  5856. [01:50] * [GM]Ludwig crosses his arms, not buying it for a second.
  5857. [01:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Just get on with it.
  5858. [01:50] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig a superior look
  5859. [01:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, you just don't understand a maiden's heart."
  5860. [01:51] * [Gtz]Mary thinks to herself: Come to think of it, Cerise probably needs the same talk. I'll do it tonight, then.
  5861. [01:51] * [GM]Ludwig starts to roll his eyes and leave... before he realizes she might not actually be talking about herself.
  5862. [01:51] <[GM]Ludwig> ...what do you mean?
  5863. [01:52] * [Nom]Alexis looks a bit upset that her good intentions are being ignored
  5864. [01:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, when a girl asks you about "change", it can only mean 3 things."
  5865. [01:56] * [Nom]Alexis stops to think for a moment
  5866. [01:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "What's the date, master?"
  5867. [01:59] <[GM]Ludwig> The fourteenth... why?
  5868. [01:59] <[GM]Ludwig> What's that have to do with a maiden's heart?
  5869. [01:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ok, four things. But you're still pretty thick, master"
  5870. [02:02] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  5871. [02:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "Never mind. It looks like this will need Alexis' expert touch."
  5872. [02:02] * [Gtz]Mary waits with the patience of a shaolin monk.
  5873. [02:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "I'll help you out this time, master."
  5874. [02:03] * [GM]Ludwig sees where this is likely to go, and moves to block the door to his room.
  5875. [02:03] <[GM]Ludwig> Not until you tell me at least what it is you're helping me with.
  5876. [02:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Everything, master, everything. Really, you should just trust me for once."
  5877. [02:05] * [Nom]Alexis looks over Ludwig's shoulder and shouts
  5878. [02:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, Mary!"
  5879. [02:06] * [Gtz]Mary calls back more silently:
  5880. [02:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, Alexis. What could you possibly be discussing that isn't fit for my ears, hmm?
  5881. [02:07] * [Gtz]Mary pushes her lips together.
  5882. [02:07] <[Nom]Alexis> "I was just bringing some references for the master, Mary. And tea. Did you want tea?"
  5883. [02:07] <[Gtz]Mary> [oh wait, is that door still closed? bah, whatever]
  5884. [02:08] * [GM]Ludwig stands silently fuming for a few seconds.
  5885. [02:08] * [Nom]Alexis is, of course, carrying a tea tray. A maid is always carrying a tea tray, unless otherwise specified.
  5886. [02:09] <[GM]Ludwig> You had damn well better make this count.
  5887. [02:09] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I'll just let myself in then."
  5888. [02:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, certainly! Master, are you finished? Come sit, we're not close to being finished yet.
  5889. [02:09] * [GM]Ludwig spends the last of his visible displeasure throwing the door open.
  5890. [02:09] * [Nom]Alexis announces her entry to no one in particular, and gives Ludwig a confident smile
  5891. [02:10] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, sorry about that.
  5892. [02:10] * [GM]Ludwig picks the encyclopedia out of the air on his way back to his seat.
  5893. [02:11] * [Nom]Alexis set up tea, and helps herself to a couch as well
  5894. [02:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Mm, thank you.
  5895. [02:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, is this one of those serious talks?"
  5896. [02:12] * [GM]Ludwig takes a cup and does his best to forget that Alexis is present.
  5897. [02:12] * [Gtz]Mary sips the tea. mmmm. good tea. It's the really tea-tea.
  5898. [02:13] <[GM]Ludwig> Sorry for the interruption, Mary. As you were saying...?
  5899. [02:13] * [Gtz]Mary pinches her lips again.
  5900. [02:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Alex-iiis! I thought you said you were gonna help me out on this?
  5901. [02:13] <[GM]Ludwig> g...wha?
  5902. [02:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "What? I'm helping, aren't I?"
  5903. [02:13] * [Nom]Alexis gives Ludwig a wink
  5904. [02:14] * [GM]Ludwig gives Alexis a gape-mouthed stare.
  5905. [02:14] * [Gtz]Mary sighs, and sits her tiny teacup into a tiny saucer and sets it on a tiny coffee table with a tiny coaster and tiny little trays
  5906. [02:14] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I guess I'll just cut straight to the point.
  5907. [02:14] <[Gtz]Mary> Again.
  5908. [02:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Master, we're here to talk to you about...
  5909. [02:15] * [Gtz]Mary [dramatic pause that isn't actually a pause but is nonetheless dramatic]
  5910. [02:15] <[Gtz]Mary> ...sex.
  5911. [02:15] * [Nom]Alexis facepalms
  5912. [02:15] <[GM]Ludwig> Uh... huh.
  5913. [02:16] * [GM]Ludwig blinks and repeats that last part just in case anybody missed it.
  5914. [02:16] <[GM]Ludwig> ...huh.
  5915. [02:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "What Mary means to say is that you're approaching the age where your body is growing in new and unexpected ways and you definitely need to learn the ways of the world and--"
  5916. [02:17] * [Nom]Alexis facepalms again
  5917. [02:17] <[Nom]Alexis> "Subtle, Mary, subtle."
  5918. [02:18] * [Gtz]Mary folds her hands in her lap and looks indignant.
  5919. [02:19] <[Gtz]Mary> It's true, the master's a growing boy, and we should go over these things just in case, but our master has a deeper understanding that transcends ordinary children, so I think it's in our best intentions to be frank and open about these things.
  5920. [02:20] * [Gtz]Mary can't believe what she's saying anymore
  5921. [02:20] * [Nom]Alexis shrugs in Ludwig's direction
  5922. [02:20] * [GM]Ludwig can't either. Did somebody spike his coffee this morning...?
  5923. [02:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, there you have it, master."
  5924. [02:22] <[GM]Ludwig> ...let me get this straight.
  5925. [02:22] <[GM]Ludwig> You're here... both of you...
  5926. [02:22] <[GM]Ludwig> ...to talk to me about the birds and the bees??
  5927. [02:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, you know that one, do you master? Then what about, er, the sharks and the echidnas?"
  5928. [02:23] * [GM]Ludwig takes his turn to facepalm.
  5929. [02:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Okay, never mind. Why?
  5930. [02:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Why now? Why you two?
  5931. [02:24] <[Gtz]Mary> We both decided it's a good idea to start now, especially since you started using your magic for... not-good purposes.
  5932. [02:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Since I what!?
  5933. [02:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, I think sharks and echidnas are some of the more interesting fauna of the old world that do not get enough representation in--ah, if Mary says so, then it must be true."
  5934. [02:25] * [Nom]Alexis nods sagely
  5935. [02:26] * [Gtz]Mary isn't doing a very good job
  5936. [02:26] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Hmmm. Perhaps you are a little young for this talk. . o O ( Cerise's age is probably about right... )
  5937. [02:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, don't back down now, Mary! You have to take a stand!"
  5938. [02:27] <[GM]Ludwig> No, don't! Or rather, I won't let you!
  5939. [02:27] <[GM]Ludwig> What the... this..
  5940. [02:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Huh?"
  5941. [02:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Won't let her what?"
  5942. [02:28] * [GM]Ludwig flaps his mouth for a few seconds, but no words manage to escape fully formed.
  5943. [02:28] <[GM]Ludwig> WHAT IS GOING ON HERE???
  5944. [02:28] * [GM]Ludwig explodes suddenly.
  5945. [02:29] * [Gtz]Mary flinches.
  5946. [02:29] <[GM]Ludwig> Damn it, ONE of you had better start talking!
  5947. [02:29] * [GM]Ludwig seems more flustered than angry.
  5948. [02:29] * [Nom]Alexis sips her tea
  5949. [02:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Now Master Ludwig, remember your manners. Is that how you talk to two young ladies that are trying to help you?
  5950. [02:30] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't know anymore!
  5951. [02:30] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, when a man and a woman loves each other very much..."
  5952. [02:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes, coitus, thank you, Alexis. I am familiar with the mechanic.
  5953. [02:31] * [Nom]Alexis looks disappointed
  5954. [02:31] * [Gtz]Mary sighs, and bows her head.
  5955. [02:31] <[GM]Ludwig> Stop beating around the bush, both of you. This decision didn't come out of the clear blue sky.
  5956. [02:32] <[GM]Ludwig> What. Is. Going. On?
  5957. [02:32] * [Nom]Alexis waves a finger
  5958. [02:33] <[Nom]Alexis> "Really master, you're always rushing things. That's why you never have any luck with the girls."
  5959. [02:33] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm sorry, Master. I should have approached you with the subject alone. I thought it'd be a good idea to have a second opinion, but...
  5960. [02:34] <[GM]Ludwig> No... no.
  5961. [02:34] <[GM]Ludwig> ...no. I'm sorry.
  5962. [02:34] * [Nom]Alexis jumps in
  5963. [02:34] * [GM]Ludwig deflates slowly back into his seat.
  5964. [02:35] <[GM]Ludwig> I shouldn't have blown up like that.
  5965. [02:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "No no, this was my idea. I thought it'd be easier to breach the topic from the flank, so to speak."
  5966. [02:35] <[Gtz]Mary> ...huh?
  5967. [02:36] * [GM]Ludwig waves one hand in the air dismissively.
  5968. [02:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Never mind, never mind.
  5969. [02:36] <[GM]Ludwig> Just say what you came here to say. I'm listening.
  5970. [02:36] * [GM]Ludwig straightens up and waits.
  5971. [02:39] * [Nom]Alexis puts on a serious voice. What actually comes out is something like documentary narration
  5972. [02:41] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master, Mary has been noticing the attention you devote to her. Yes, being the sharp girl that she is, she has seen through your various mischief."
  5973. [02:42] * [GM]Ludwig reddens a little, but says nothing.
  5974. [02:42] * [Gtz]Mary finally finds her turn to facepalm.
  5975. [02:42] * [Nom]Alexis nods as if she needed to agree with what she has been saying
  5976. [02:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "But she did not want to break your young heart. Not understanding the world the ways of the world, you will certainly have been shattered to learn the truth!"
  5977. [02:45] * [GM]Ludwig looks to Mary and interrupts Alexis quite deliberately.
  5978. [02:46] <[GM]Ludwig> Truth?
  5979. [02:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "The Truth!"
  5980. [02:46] * [Nom]Alexis shakes her fist passionately, even as she is ignored
  5981. [02:47] <[Gtz]Mary> The Truth? About what?
  5982. [02:48] * [GM]Ludwig looks back at Alexis.
  5983. [02:49] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, what pandemonium the world of men and women is! We weren't sure if you were read for it! No, we feared that you were ready for it!"
  5984. [02:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "So decided to ease you gently into it, master, by trying to explain to you this brave new world you are now about to enter."
  5985. [02:53] * [Gtz]Mary sullens a little bit, her thoughts drifting among Alexis's words.
  5986. [02:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "But alas, the master was impatient! He wanted to know! Like a short and fashion-impaired Icarus, not knowing the heat of the sun!"
  5987. [02:55] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis... could you leave us alone for a little bit? I think I know what I wanted to say, now.
  5988. [02:55] * [Nom]Alexis doesn't really hear anyone else anymore
  5989. [02:55] <[Nom]Alexis> "The truth is, master...Mary's heart actually belongs to...!"
  5990. [02:56] <[GM]Ludwig> ALEXIS!!
  5991. [02:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "HANS!"
  5992. [02:56] <[Gtz]Mary> ...What?
  5993. [02:56] * [GM]Ludwig jumps to his feet and points at the door.
  5994. [02:56] <[GM]Ludwig> OUT!
  5995. [02:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "...What?"
  5996. [02:57] <[GM]Ludwig> Did I stutter?
  5997. [02:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Thank you for coming. Now, leave us alone.
  5998. [02:59] * [Nom]Alexis puts both her hands in air in resignation
  5999. [03:00] * [Gtz]Mary feels even worse, now that she got Alexis into trouble.
  6000. [03:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, ok, ok. I'm done here anyway."
  6001. [03:01] * [Nom]Alexis stands up and straightens out her skirts without a fuss
  6002. [03:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Well, off I go then."
  6003. [03:02] * [Nom]Alexis pats Mary on the shoulder as she leaves
  6004. [03:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "I hope you know what to do with your show now."
  6005. [03:02] * [Nom]Alexis stage right
  6006. [03:04] * [Gtz]Mary sighs, and is silent for a very long moment. An irresistible dry giggle makes its way through her body soon after.
  6007. [03:05] <[Gtz]Mary> hahaha.... I'm sorry, Master. That was a little... silly.
  6008. [03:05] * [GM]Ludwig watches Alexis leave, then sits back down and leans forward towards Mary, bracing himself.
  6009. [03:06] <[GM]Ludwig> I want you to sa...
  6010. [03:06] <[GM]Ludwig> ...I want to hear it from you, Mary.
  6011. [03:07] * [Gtz]Mary straightens up.
  6012. [03:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes, master?
  6013. [03:11] * [GM]Ludwig shakes his head slowly.
  6014. [03:11] <[GM]Ludwig> No, I'm sorry, I can't let you off that easily. You're going to have to say it yourself.
  6015. [03:12] <[Gtz]Mary> Say what?
  6016. [03:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Say what you came to say.
  6017. [03:12] <[GM]Ludwig> Speak your piece.
  6018. [03:12] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm listening.
  6019. [03:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh! Ah, yes. Of course. Again, I'm sorry about that embarrassing little scene, but I want to talk to you about a great deal of things. We need to talk about Teilya, Cerise, Sam, Alexis, the new guest... But most of all, I'm here to talk about you. How do you feel, master? I don't mean your temperament or anything of the physical sort, but how have you truly been feeling lately?
  6020. [03:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Um...
  6021. [03:18] * [GM]Ludwig has never been good with this kind of trick question... probably not least because he always thinks of them as trick questions.
  6022. [03:19] <[GM]Ludwig> ...fine?
  6023. [03:23] * [GM]Ludwig fidgets through the resultantly uncomfortable silence.
  6024. [03:25] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm, really? Just fine? That's good, I suppose.
  6025. [03:25] * [Gtz]Mary takes the tiny cup and takes a tiny sip
  6026. [03:26] * [GM]Ludwig had almost completely forgotten about the tea. The still-warm leaf juice soothes his nerves somewhat.
  6027. [03:26] <[Gtz]Mary> But when I put myself in your shoes, I can't help but be anything other than fine... If there's anything you want to talk about, master, that's what I'm here for.
  6028. [03:27] <[Gtz]Mary> I know you don't keep me around for my tea, anyway.
  6029. [03:27] * [Gtz]Mary sips, as if making a point.
  6030. [03:29] * [GM]Ludwig almost interrupts to ask what she meant by that, but keeps his mouth shut in the end.
  6031. [03:31] * [Gtz]Mary bows her head, as if she's staring into her empty cup.
  6032. [03:35] <[Gtz]Mary> I haven't been there for you as of late, master. I'm sorry. I've forgotten my place.
  6033. [03:37] <[GM]Ludwig> What? No!
  6034. [03:38] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't even consciously think about it, he just reaches across and grips Mary's knee through her skirt, keeping his eyes on hers.
  6035. [03:38] <[GM]Ludwig> That's nonsense. I've never thought that way about you.
  6036. [03:39] * [Gtz]Mary flinches a great deal, her own hand meeting Ludwig's.
  6037. [03:40] * [Gtz]Mary eases.
  6038. [03:40] <[Gtz]Mary> You may not, but it's how I feel. I owe you a life-debt, master. And I should work as hard as I can to repay it, even if I can never.
  6039. [03:41] * [GM]Ludwig realizes what he's done only after she flinches, but cannot move the offending hand away before she's trapped it there. Did it get hot in here all of a sudden?
  6040. [03:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Anyway, master... Come sit here.
  6041. [03:44] * [Gtz]Mary pats some of the empty sofa next to her.
  6042. [03:44] * [GM]Ludwig obliges.
  6043. [03:46] * [Gtz]Mary lays an arm around Ludwig's shoulders, smiling and giving them a little rub.
  6044. [03:46] * [GM]Ludwig definitely notices an increase in the room temperature.
  6045. [03:47] <[Gtz]Mary> ...that's better. So, how is everything? Is there anything you'd like to share, or perhaps even something you'd wish I would share with you?
  6046. [03:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Well... erm...
  6047. [03:49] <[Gtz]Mary> It doesn't have to be anything bad or serious, we're just going talk a little bit about whatever we need to.
  6048. [03:49] * [GM]Ludwig has several things that spring immediately to mind, none of which seem terribly appropriate.
  6049. [03:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Of course, if you're not comfortable right now, I'll always listen to what you have to say at any time.
  6050. [03:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, all right, then... how are *you*?
  6051. [03:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Hm, I figured you'd say me. Alright then, what do you want to know?
  6052. [03:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, just... how are you? What have you been up to?
  6053. [03:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, I'm doing alright, all things considered... Cerise, Teilya and them still worry me sometimes. I wish we didn't have to bestow such adult duties on people your age... Frankly, I don't see how you cope with it like you do.
  6054. [03:56] * [GM]Ludwig turns somber.
  6055. [03:56] <[GM]Ludwig> I wish so, too. But, we haven't been left with the luxury of choice.
  6056. [03:58] * [Gtz]Mary sighs inaudibly, moving from shoulders to petting Ludwig's hair with close care not to be abrasive.
  6057. [04:00] <[GM]Ludwig> I wouldn't be able to cope with it at all, if it weren't for all of you.
  6058. [04:01] * [Gtz]Mary smiles, and hums a short laugh obligingly
  6059. [04:01] <[GM]Ludwig> No, I'm serious.
  6060. [04:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmhm, that's what I find so wonderful about this place.
  6061. [04:03] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't show you half the appreciation that I should, just for your being here.
  6062. [04:07] <[Gtz]Mary> I don't doubt you a bit, Master. Before coming here, I used to have a heart frozen in ice, hardened from the pains of our degrading little world. I wouldn't have talked to any of you, as much as I may have wanted to. I was too afraid. But shortly after I arrived, I underwent a spiritual renewal... I started to open up. Made some friends. I even got baptized by our preacher.
  6063. [04:13] <[Gtz]Mary> But now I can feel the stings of harsh reality more acutely than ever before... Perhaps it's the ones I've yet to know that shake me the most.
  6064. [04:15] * [GM]Ludwig moves his arm to wrap it around Mary's shoulder, but finds it just a little awkwardly high from this angle, and there's nowhere else to put it that might not be inappropriate...
  6065. [04:18] * [GM]Ludwig leaves his arm hanging there for a second before steeling himself and throwing caution to the wind. Reaching behind Mary, he puts his arm around her waist, hand on her far hip. Situated like this, he leans his head onto her shoulder.
  6066. [04:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Mhmhmhm... You're such a warm boy. Alexis tells me that she helped raise you, is this true? If so, I have a lot to thank her for. She certainly does a better job than me.
  6067. [04:22] * [GM]Ludwig finds it impossible to remain tense like this.
  6068. [04:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Yeah... she's been with the family a long, long time.
  6069. [04:24] * [Gtz]Mary runs her fingers through his hair once more, with all the tenderness of a mother.
  6070. [04:25] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm... Alexis has a pretty good heart in the end, doesn't she?
  6071. [04:25] * [GM]Ludwig manages an exasperated sigh.
  6072. [04:26] <[GM]Ludwig> I suppose so... she's got some work to do on expressing it, though.
  6073. [04:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Do you really get along well with her?
  6074. [04:27] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmhmhm... Well, that's just how she copes, I guess. I bet she really worries about you a lot. We all do, really.
  6075. [04:28] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I think we get along alright. We used to be at odds all the time, but I think we might have reached some sort of an understanding.
  6076. [04:29] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm glad to hear that.
  6077. [04:31] <[GM]Ludwig> What do you think of Sam?
  6078. [04:32] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, Sam's such a sweetheart. She's a little sheepish, but she'll fit right in. She's already made friends of Teilya, Cerise and I. I'm really happy with how that all turned out. It's too bad about her memory, though. But... I suppose it's a renewal of her own.
  6079. [04:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Sam...
  6080. [04:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, yes.
  6081. [04:34] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise told me that you ordered her to change rooms, and that I'm to room with Sam. May I ask why that is?
  6082. [04:37] * [GM]Ludwig hesitates, wondering if he'll actually be able to say this with her so close. He could always move, but...
  6083. [04:38] <[GM]Ludwig> I want you to help her get... acclimated to this place, her new home, and position.
  6084. [04:39] <[GM]Ludwig> I know it's inconvenient for Cerise, and possibly for yourself, as well, as close as you are.
  6085. [04:40] <[GM]Ludwig> But, I think Sam might feel more comfortable opening up one-on-one, as opposed to feeling like a third wheel.
  6086. [04:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, of course. That's no problem. Though I'm gonna miss Cerise, as you said.
  6087. [04:41] <[GM]Ludwig> Not that I'm saying that's how you'd treat her, of course, but that may be how she views it.
  6088. [04:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Yes... Cerise didn't seem to take my orders very well.
  6089. [04:42] * [Gtz]Mary smiles deeply.
  6090. [04:44] <[Gtz]Mary> She loves me. And I love her, too. But I think she'll be fine, she should probably room with Teilya for the time being.
  6091. [04:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmmm. That's a good idea.
  6092. [04:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise and Teilya... Really, those two always need someone to love. It's how they cope as well, I suppose, but it transcends that. It strikes closer.
  6093. [04:49] <[Gtz]Mary> From what I've observed, Teilya is quite taken with Sam as well. I think - nothing for certain, but I think - she feels that Sam can be a source of retribution for her past sins. Did you hear her after they came back with Sam yesterday? She was so... distraught. But now, she's doing pretty good, and I think Sam has helped do that for her.
  6094. [04:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm.
  6095. [04:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm?
  6096. [04:56] <[GM]Ludwig> Hmm? Oh.
  6097. [04:56] <[GM]Ludwig> I dunno.
  6098. [04:56] <[GM]Ludwig> Just... thinking.
  6099. [04:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Hahaha... Is there anything in particular you want me to do with her? Honestly, someone else might be better suited for the job. I'm usually just a liability.
  6100. [04:58] <[GM]Ludwig> Just do what you do best: talk, listen, and understand.
  6101. [04:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Make her feel welcome. Or rather, make her feel at home here.
  6102. [04:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Trust me, there's no-one I can think of who is better suited for this task.
  6103. [05:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm... Sometimes, I start to think I don't speak my words quite the way I want them to to sound. That I don't listen quite as well as I should. That I don't understand all that I perceive. But... I'll do my best for you, Master. You can count on me.
  6104. [05:01] * [Gtz]Mary gives his shoulder a soft squeeze.
  6105. [05:02] * [GM]Ludwig squeezes back.
  6106. [05:02] <[GM]Ludwig> I know I can.
  6107. [05:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm... How long do you want this to last, anyway?
  6108. [05:09] * [GM]Ludwig shifts his head around to look up at her.
  6109. [05:09] <[GM]Ludwig> What do you mean, exactly?
  6110. [05:12] <[Gtz]Mary> I mean, do you want this to be a permanent change, or can I trade with Teilya after a while? I bet she'd like to spend some time with Sam herself, and I'll start to miss hearing Cerise's little snores every morning.
  6111. [05:13] * [GM]Ludwig chuckles.
  6112. [05:13] <[GM]Ludwig> I hadn't really thought that far ahead, but it's not a bad idea.
  6113. [05:14] <[GM]Ludwig> How long would you say is "a while"?
  6114. [05:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm. Maybe we should talk to them about it. Maybe let Sam pick out who she wants to room with? Though I suppose you're quite set on putting her in with me. Hmm...
  6115. [05:17] <[Gtz]Mary> ...I'd say once she's comfortable with us, and she finds her place in the group and learns her maid duties and all that. Could take a few weeks, could take a couple of days. To do what you want, we can only measure by how Sam feels.
  6116. [05:20] <[GM]Ludwig> Mmm...
  6117. [05:25] <[GM]Ludwig> You really do smell nice...
  6118. [05:25] * [GM]Ludwig can not believe he just said that out loud.
  6119. [05:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, it's Cerise's shampoo. I used some of it last night, smells like cherries, doesn't it?
  6120. [05:26] * [Gtz]Mary whoosh
  6121. [05:27] <[GM]Ludwig> Ohh, y-yeah...
  6122. [05:28] <[GM]Ludwig> It really... suits you.
  6123. [05:28] * [GM]Ludwig would slap himself right now, if he could. What are you doing!?
  6124. [05:29] * [Gtz]Mary doesn't look quite as peppy as before.
  6125. [05:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm. I suppose.
  6126. [05:32] * [GM]Ludwig tries to ride out the awkward pause in the conversation.
  6127. [05:34] * [Gtz]Mary just rocks the boat. don't rock the boat, baby~
  6128. [05:38] * [Gtz]Mary stops for a moment.
  6129. [05:39] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Wait a second. You're not dodging the conversation, are you? You're supposed to tell me what you think about Sam, not how my hair smells. But thanks anyway~
  6130. [05:40] * [GM]Ludwig blinks. He is?
  6131. [05:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh. Sorry.
  6132. [05:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Sam... well...
  6133. [05:41] <[GM]Ludwig> She...
  6134. [05:41] <[GM]Ludwig> ...was a lucky find.
  6135. [05:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Indeed. Very fortunate for her, and as I've said before, some of us. Oh, that reminds me...
  6136. [05:42] <[Gtz]Mary> Have you spoke to that man Cerise found earlier?
  6137. [05:43] * [GM]Ludwig inhales through his teeth.
  6138. [05:43] <[GM]Ludwig> The survivor... no, not yet. Honestly, I'd almost forgotten about him.
  6139. [05:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Have you?
  6140. [05:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Yes.
  6141. [05:44] <[GM]Ludwig> How did he... seem?
  6142. [05:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm...
  6143. [05:44] <[GM]Ludwig> ...that's an awkward way to put it, but...
  6144. [05:49] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, he's certainly not a well-mannered man. But that's forgivable. His true fault lies in his broken spirit... So much time in the wild and the recent events all must have come to quite a shock for him. I've heard that his friends, I suppose his comrades, died very recently before his arrival here. It's pitiable.
  6145. [05:49] <[GM]Ludwig> I see...
  6146. [05:50] <[Gtz]Mary> Reminds me of myself when everything went wrong, really. Now you're all alone amongst strangers that don't like you, and you don't really know what to do but survive. It's lonely.
  6147. [04:51] * [GM]Ludwig tightens his grip slightly and inches closer to Mary, hearing about her hard life before coming to the Fortress.
  6148. [04:52] <[GM]Ludwig> I'll have to go and talk to him soon, then.
  6149. [pause~]
  6150. ---
  6151. @@Part 2
  6152. ---
  6153. [19:41] <Mary> [okay, so where were we]
  6154. [19:48] <Mary> [Hans, apparently]
  6155. [19:55] <Mary> Hah... I want to help the poor guy out, but he's pretty stubborn. That, and I have my own reluctance towards him.
  6156. [19:56] <[Tet]Ludwig> Looking at it practically, you say all he wants to do is survive.
  6157. [19:57] <[Tet]Ludwig> Well, unless he's a madman, he has to realize that he can't do that by himself. He'll co-operate in the end, because he really has no choice.
  6158. [19:58] <[Tet]Ludwig> The sooner he comes to accept it, though...
  6159. [20:01] <Mary> ...mmn. Before I left, he started saying those things that have crossed all our minds at some point: continuing is useless. Though perhaps we are driven by instinct simply to live, the human heart needs something to live for. I don't think that man has much to live for...
  6160. [20:10] <[Tet]Ludwig> Did you?
  6161. [20:11] * Mary casts her arm around Ludwig's waist much the same way he has, and files through his hair with the opposite hand.
  6162. [20:11] <Mary> Did I? You mean, before coming here?
  6163. [20:15] <[Tet]Ludwig> Or when you first arrived, yes.
  6164. [20:20] <Mary> Well, like I said. When I first got here, I went under a spiritual renewal. It's the best I've ever been, really. It was the first time since the disaster that I had something to live for other than myself.
  6165. [20:23] <[Tet]Ludwig> Why?
  6166. [20:23] <[Tet]Ludwig> I mean, how?
  6167. [20:23] * [Tet]Ludwig sighs.
  6168. [20:23] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...I mean, what happened?
  6169. [20:30] <Mary> It was a new start for me. A second chance to make things better. I didn't want to let it pass by, so I did everything I could to make myself and my new home better to thank you for giving me that second chance, to live amongst equals. I really do owe a lot to you, Master.
  6170. [20:30] * Mary rubs his head more affectionately before settling her hand in his lap.
  6171. [20:31] * [Tet]Ludwig places his hand on top of hers and squeezes it gently.
  6172. [20:31] <[Tet]Ludwig> Then, I'll just have to try to do as good a job for him as I did for you, won't I?
  6173. [20:32] * Mary brightens.
  6174. [20:34] <Mary> Right. And I'll do my part, too. If he can't find something to live for, I'll give him something to live for. Haah... I just hope I don't set things too high for myself.
  6175. [20:35] <[Tet]Ludwig> You really should give yourself more credit...
  6176. [20:35] * [Tet]Ludwig chuckles.
  6177. [20:35] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...but then again, your humility is just one of the things I love about you.
  6178. [20:36] * [Tet]Ludwig shifts closer still, his head gradually moving further up Mary's shoulder.
  6179. [20:42] * [Tet]Ludwig waits, but gets no reaction. So, he pushes himself further upward, towards her face...
  6180. [20:43] * Mary 's thoughts drift back to how poorly she handled that situation with Cerise. How she cowered before her friend instead of taking necessary action. Can he really trust me?
  6181. [20:44] <Mary> ...mn. Making yourself comfortable, hmmm?
  6182. [20:44] * [Tet]Ludwig swallows, hard. Audibly.
  6183. [20:44] <[Tet]Ludwig> Y... you could say that...
  6184. [20:45] * [Tet]Ludwig takes his arm from around Mary's waist, turns her face towards his... and kisses her on the lips. Very, very softly, experimentally.
  6185. [20:45] <Mary> ?! ...
  6186. [20:46] * Mary slowly but solemnly pushes Ludwig away.
  6187. [20:46] * Mary sighs. This is too much. Too much, in one day.
  6188. [20:46] * [Tet]Ludwig doesn't put up any resistance.
  6189. [20:46] <[Tet]Ludwig> I'm sorry.
  6190. [20:48] <[Tet]Ludwig> I just tho-thought...
  6191. [20:48] <Mary> Master... no, I'm sorry. There's something I've been dodging throughout this conversation, something I'm afraid to say. But I fear worse that if I don't say it now, we may both hurt ourselves more in the long run.
  6192. [20:49] * [Tet]Ludwig gets his senses backwards: he doesn't show it visibly, but you can hear his voice crumbling.
  6193. [20:49] * Mary gives herself a little bit of space between them.
  6194. [20:49] <[Tet]Ludwig> It's... Cerise, isn't it.
  6195. [20:49] * [Tet]Ludwig doesn't ask.
  6196. [20:50] <Mary> Yes.
  6197. [20:50] * [Tet]Ludwig gives himself quite a bit of space between them.
  6198. [20:50] * Mary sighs, and bows her head.
  6199. [20:50] <[Tet]Ludwig> For how long?
  6200. [20:53] <Mary> How long? We've loved one another for perhaps quite a long time. I grew attached to her not long after I met her. However, I've only recently discovered how deep her love runs for me... And now I don't know what to do.
  6201. [20:54] <Mary> This... this is why you shouldn't trust me so much. At the most critical moments... I falter into indecision. And I hurt people.
  6202. [20:56] * Mary speaks in a course whisper:
  6203. [20:56] <Mary> I'm sorry, Master. I tell you I'll give you my all, but in the end, all I have to offer is heartbreak.
  6204. [20:57] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...don't.
  6205. [20:58] <[Tet]Ludwig> Just don't.
  6206. [20:59] * Mary takes a deep breath, and straightens back up. She still looks melancholy, but not like she's been kicked in the chest.
  6207. [21:00] * [Tet]Ludwig , on the other hand...
  6208. [21:04] <[Tet]Ludwig> Well...
  6209. [21:05] * [Tet]Ludwig manages to stand up, despite feeling completely empty.
  6210. [21:05] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...I suppose I should get back to work.
  6211. [21:06] <Mary> Master, please. Sit down. I don't want things to turn out like this.
  6212. [21:07] * [Tet]Ludwig turns his head slowly to look at her.
  6213. [21:07] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...turn out like what?
  6214. [21:10] <Mary> I don't want this animosity between us, but...
  6215. [21:10] * Mary sighs.
  6216. [21:11] * [Tet]Ludwig explodes.
  6217. [21:11] <[Tet]Ludwig> Well, then, what the hell DO you want?!
  6218. [21:11] <Mary> I don't know what to do. I feel as though I owe you everything, everything I can give you, even myself, but Cerise... There's something I've give-
  6219. [21:12] <[Tet]Ludwig> God damn it, woman, I'm not just going to be alright with this!
  6220. [21:13] * [Tet]Ludwig clamps his mouth shut, teeth clicking together audibly. He turns around and pounds a fist onto his writing desk. A pile of papers shakes apart onto the floor.
  6221. [21:13] <[Tet]Ludwig> ......you know your duties better than I do.
  6222. [21:13] <[Tet]Ludwig> Just... get out.
  6223. [21:15] * Mary doesn't move.
  6224. [21:16] <[Tet]Ludwig> Please.
  6225. [21:17] <Mary> I do know my duties. And my duty is... to you. To everybody. But above all else, you. I've failed in that regard.
  6226. [21:17] * Mary stands up.
  6227. [21:18] * [Tet]Ludwig hunches forward, exhaling in heavy, shuddering breaths.
  6228. [21:35] <Mary> If you must learn anything from my mistake... don't promise too much. Don't promise for tomorrow what you can't give for today. Promise only what you know you can give, and then deliver more than you promise. You won't hurt anyone, that way. Just... don't promise bad things.
  6229. [21:36] * Mary slowly saunters out. she has to catch herself from tripping between the sofa and the table, but she manages it without incidence.
  6230. [21:37] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...I haven't.
  6231. [21:39] * [Tet]Ludwig doesn't say anything else as she leaves.
  6232.  
  6233.  
  6234.  
  6235.  
  6236.  
  6237.  
  6238.  
  6239.  
  6240.  
  6241. @@---
  6242. @@=====
  6243. @@Session Thirteen
  6244. @@=====
  6245. @@---
  6246.  
  6247. @@Part One: Hans and Ludwig, Infirmary (And a Teilya, nya!)
  6248.  
  6249. [02:08] <[Tet]Ludwig> [Down in the med room...]
  6250. [02:10] * [Tet]Ludwig opens the door and peers inside at the patient.
  6251. [02:11] * [kiri]Hans finished his meal for some times now, and is now doing a push-ups. With his only one arm left.
  6252. [02:11] <[kiri]Hans> eighty...five.....*pant*.... eighty...six....
  6253. [02:12] * [Tet]Ludwig steps inside and closes the door behind himself quietly.
  6254. [02:14] * [Tet]Ludwig dusts off a nearby chair, sits down, and waits, watching the stranger's exercises impassively.
  6255. [02:15] * [kiri]Hans lay flat on the floor after he got to his 94th.
  6256. [02:15] * [kiri]Hans groan.
  6257. [02:16] <[Tet]Ludwig> Only six more.
  6258. [02:16] <[kiri]Hans> *pant*
  6259. [02:17] <[kiri]Hans> I nearly died a while ago. I guess the necessary energy left to do that six more is lost out there in the sand.
  6260. [02:17] <[Tet]Ludwig> Hmph.
  6261. [02:17] * [kiri]Hans sits back up.
  6262. [02:18] <[kiri]Hans> *sits
  6263. [02:18] <[kiri]Hans> And you are...? Another butler?
  6264. [02:18] <[Tet]Ludwig> No. I have no butlers, here.
  6265. [02:19] * [kiri]Hans shrugs.
  6266. [02:19] <[kiri]Hans> whatchawant?
  6267. [02:20] <[Tet]Ludwig> I am Ludwig Beetleoven, the master of this fortress.
  6268. [02:20] <[Tet]Ludwig> I believe you wished to see me.
  6269. [02:21] * [kiri]Hans tense up. Somehow his eyes does not express gratitude, but something else.
  6270. [02:21] <[kiri]Hans> So you're the owner of this place, eh?
  6271. [02:21] * [Tet]Ludwig doesn't change his position or expression to match the patient's.
  6272. [02:22] <[Tet]Ludwig> That is correct.
  6273. [02:22] <[kiri]Hans> Thank you for saving my ass out there, richie.
  6274. [02:22] <[Tet]Ludwig> You're welcome.
  6275. [02:23] <Gaatz> WHAT'S UP, FAGGOT
  6276. [02:23] <[Tet]Ludwig> [...]
  6277. [02:23] <Gaatz> [shit! sorry!]
  6278. [02:23] <[kiri]Hans> Life's happy, huh? Surrounded by woman who do as you say. Lot's of food on the platter, lots of pleasant times, without danger of the wasteland.
  6279. [02:24] <[Tet]Ludwig> We get by.
  6280. [02:24] <[kiri]Hans> Get by, huh.
  6281. [02:25] <[kiri]Hans> That is all I want to say to you, richie-boy. I'll get my ass outta here as soon as I'm ready.
  6282. [02:25] <[Tet]Ludwig> Idiot.
  6283. [02:25] <[kiri]Hans> Tomorrow, maybe.
  6284. [02:25] <[kiri]Hans> ....!
  6285. [02:26] <[Tet]Ludwig> Well, perhaps that was unkind.
  6286. [02:26] <[Tet]Ludwig> It's possible you're merely insane.
  6287. [02:26] <[Tet]Ludwig> You'd know better than I, friend. Which is it?
  6288. [02:26] * [Tet]Ludwig remains stonefaced throughout.
  6289. [02:26] <[kiri]Hans> You just don't know how harsh the life is, out there.
  6290. [02:27] <[kiri]Hans> Be happy. enjoy it while it last.
  6291. [02:29] * [Tet]Ludwig opens his mouth and... makes a sound, a low one from the bottom of his throat, not entirely unlike a goose.
  6292. [02:32] <[Tet]Ludwig> [Like a huge, invisible hand, a wave of force strikes Hans dead center in the chest. His body slides backwards across the floor, then tumbles, coming to a stop against the wall.]
  6293. [02:32] <[kiri]Hans> Ack!
  6294. [02:33] <[Tet]Ludwig> You didn't answer my question.
  6295. [02:33] <[Tet]Ludwig> At least, not directly.
  6296. [02:34] <[Tet]Ludwig> I have my own opinion, now, but I am still interested in hearing yours.
  6297. [02:34] <[kiri]Hans> What the fuck did you just---!
  6298. [02:35] <[kiri]Hans> You little fucking shit---!
  6299. [02:36] * [kiri]Hans grab Ludwig's collar, and shove him up against the wall, feet hanging in the air.
  6300. [02:36] <[kiri]Hans> I can't stay alive for years after I left Samoa with my friend without sanity, you fuckers!
  6301. [02:37] <[Tet]Ludwig> Yes, clearly.
  6302. [02:38] <[Tet]Ludwig> Even a madman would give more pause to threatening the one person in control of his fate.
  6303. [02:39] <[kiri]Hans> You? control my fate? HA!
  6304. [02:40] <[kiri]Hans> My fate is mine to choose.
  6305. [02:40] <[Tet]Ludwig> No longer.
  6306. [02:41] <[Tet]Ludwig> I frankly cannot conceive why you would choose to leave this place, but that is immaterial.
  6307. [02:41] <[Tet]Ludwig> I will not allow it.
  6308. [02:42] * [kiri]Hans release his grip, and let Ludwig fall down on the floor with a thud.
  6309. [02:42] <[kiri]Hans> I hate you.
  6310. [02:42] * [Tet]Ludwig picks himself up and takes his seat again.
  6311. [02:42] <[kiri]Hans> I despise you.
  6312. [02:42] <[Tet]Ludwig> I don't care.
  6313. [02:42] <[kiri]Hans> I hate you and your uppity-looking position.
  6314. [02:42] <[Tet]Ludwig> You have made that clear.
  6315. [02:43] <[kiri]Hans> I hate how you live your life happily inside this fortress and leave people out there to die.
  6316. [02:43] <[kiri]Hans> Samoa got wiped off the map. Without any help.
  6317. [02:44] <[kiri]Hans> While you sit there and enjoy your life.
  6318. [02:44] * [Tet]Ludwig finally changes his expression, face twisting with rage.
  6319. [02:45] * [Tet]Ludwig opens his mouth and makes the same sound as before, only louder. Volume seems to control the effect's intensity, as this one throws its target bodily across the room, feet leaving the ground, slamming it into the far wall. A couple of bottles are shaken from their shelves and shatter on the floor.
  6320. [02:47] * [Tet]Ludwig still isn't satisfied with this. He stomps across to where Hans has fallen now, picks him up, and punches him across the jaw.
  6321. [02:47] * [kiri]Hans spit his blood on Ludwig's face.
  6322. [02:48] <[Tet]Ludwig> You imbecile. How could you have lived this long without realizing how the world works now?
  6323. [02:48] <[Tet]Ludwig> Charity is DEAD. You take what you can and hold on to it.
  6324. [02:49] <[kiri]Hans> hahaha! What now?! You got angry and you gonna kill me!? Pfft! I DON'T FEAR YOU, FUCKFACE!
  6325. [02:49] <[Tet]Ludwig> You're lucky I'm such a Goddamned FOOL to still believe in it, or I'd have left you to bleed out your last in the dirt!
  6326. [02:49] <[Tet]Ludwig> Samoa was dead before we even knew it existed!
  6327. [02:50] <[kiri]Hans> BECAUSE YOU DON'T CARE SHIT ABOUT IT!
  6328. [02:52] * [Tet]Ludwig screams the sound in Hans' face. One long, loud blast, pushing his body backwards against the wall from point blank range. After a few seconds, the wall actually starts to bend from the bottom.
  6329. [03:02] * [Tet]Ludwig runs out of breath before he runs out of anger.
  6330. [03:04] * [kiri]Hans roll on the floor. He's still breathing, but show no sign of his usual faggotmouthery.
  6331. [03:04] <[kiri]Hans> *cough!*
  6332. [03:05] * [Tet]Ludwig stands over him, breathing hard.
  6333. [03:05] * [PB]Teilya , with a loud crash, blasts out of the floor by smashing it from below with her hammer. With a smooth twirl she drops down next to her master, sledgehammer held in front of her menacingly.
  6334. [03:05] <[Tet]Ludwig> There's... one...
  6335. [03:06] <[Tet]Ludwig> Do you... get it, now?
  6336. [03:06] <[PB]Teilya> Master!
  6337. [03:07] * [kiri]Hans didn't respond. He's still busy trying to breathe properly.
  6338. [03:08] * [Tet]Ludwig grabs a handful of Teilya's skirt and pulls himself back to an upright position.
  6339. [03:09] * [Tet]Ludwig evens out his own breathing with a heavy sigh.
  6340. [03:10] * [PB]Teilya takes a glance at Ludwig worryingly, then back at Hans with increased fury.
  6341. [03:10] <[Tet]Ludwig> There are four more behind her, loyal to me, who have seen the same horrors as you have, believe it or not.
  6342. [03:10] <[Tet]Ludwig> And I think I've proven even to your dulled intellect that I am not nearly so helpless as I appear.
  6343. [03:11] <[Tet]Ludwig> If I give the order, you will die.
  6344. [03:11] <[Tet]Ludwig> Do you want to die?
  6345. [03:11] <[kiri]Hans> My...*cough*...My life is mine.
  6346. [03:12] <[kiri]Hans> You can't...*cough*.... choose my...*cough*....fate.
  6347. [03:12] <[kiri]Hans> For I am...*cough*...HANS!
  6348. [03:13] <[PB]Teilya> Master...your orders?
  6349. [03:13] * [Tet]Ludwig stares down at the man. Hot anger has faded completely, replaced by cold sorrow.
  6350. [03:14] <[Tet]Ludwig> You wouldn't listen. You just wouldn't listen.
  6351. [03:14] <[Tet]Ludwig> I wanted to help, but...
  6352. [03:15] <[kiri]Hans> I will... save everyone...*cough*...by myself if I have to...! I...I won't.... lose.....
  6353. [03:15] <[kiri]Hans> Sven... Prero... Maxwell... Everyone...
  6354. [03:16] * [kiri]Hans is out of breathe. He can't say anything more because of the running pain.
  6355. [03:16] * [Tet]Ludwig kneels down at Hans' side.
  6356. [03:17] <[Tet]Ludwig> You don't have to do it by yourself, you great idiot.
  6357. [03:17] <[Tet]Ludwig> That's what I've been trying to tell you.
  6358. [03:17] <[kiri]Hans> You....
  6359. [03:17] * [kiri]Hans twisted in agony and pain.
  6360. [03:17] <[kiri]Hans> Are you going to.....help?
  6361. [03:18] * [Tet]Ludwig whispers something, too low and fast for even Teilya's ears to make out properly. The effect on Hans, however, is instant: sleep, peaceful and deep.
  6362. [03:19] * [kiri]Hans is down in deep slumber.
  6363. [03:19] <[Tet]Ludwig> T... Teilya.
  6364. [03:19] <[PB]Teilya> Hm-ah! Y-Yes, Master?
  6365. [03:20] * [Tet]Ludwig tries to stand back up, but stumbles the second he moves his legs, falling over onto his back.
  6366. [03:20] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...two things, now.
  6367. [03:21] <[Tet]Ludwig> First, go and find someone else, anyone. Have them carry me back to my bedroom. I'm going to sleep for a while.
  6368. [03:21] * [PB]Teilya frantically puts away her hammer and scoops Ludwig in her arms, listening carefully and nodding as he speaks.
  6369. [03:21] <[PB]Teilya> O-Of course, Master, you must be tired by now.
  6370. [03:22] <[Tet]Ludwig> When that's done... treat that man's injuries and strap him back into the bed.
  6371. [03:22] <[Tet]Ludwig> He'll be out for hours...
  6372. [03:22] <[PB]Teilya> Huh? Oh, um, okay...
  6373. [03:22] * [PB]Teilya looks a bit uncertain.
  6374. [03:23] <[PB]Teilya> Um...do you want me to keep him sleeping?
  6375. [03:23] <[Tet]Ludwig> It's not really... a choice at this point. The spell I put on him...
  6376. [03:24] * [Tet]Ludwig loses the rest of that thought, trailing off into mumbling.
  6377. [03:24] <[PB]Teilya> Master!
  6378. [03:25] * [Tet]Ludwig is roused momentarily by her call.
  6379. [03:25] <[Tet]Ludwig> ...oh yeah... might wanna see about... getting that hole in the floor patched up, too...
  6380. [03:26] * [PB]Teilya was silent for a moment, then let loose a small chuckle and nods.
  6381. [03:26] <[Tet]Ludwig> don' jus' stan' there... g't'it...
  6382. [03:26] <[PB]Teilya> Of course, Master.
  6383. [03:26] * [PB]Teilya quickly snatches out a communicator and starts up a fortress-wide call.
  6384. [03:27] * [Tet]Ludwig goes limp in Teilya's arms, beyond the reach of the waking world.
  6385. [03:27] <[PB]Teilya> Emergency! We have an emergency in the medical room, requesting nearest personnel respond!
  6386.  
  6387. ---
  6388. @@Part Two: Cerise and Mary, Roof
  6389. ---
  6390.  
  6391. [20:40] <[GM]Mary> Later that night, a maid awaited another, and soon, then, was righteous palaver held between them.
  6392. [20:42] * Mary sits alone along the stone wall, her arms wrapped around her knees and head bowed before them.
  6393. [20:46] * Cerise appears around a corner and finds her friend.
  6394. [20:46] <Cerise> Mary?
  6395. [20:46] <Cerise> Mary, what's wrong?
  6396. [20:47] * Cerise approaches at a faster pace, concerned.
  6397. [20:48] * Mary slowly brings her head up, and tries to graft a sad smile. She gives up halfway through her attempt.
  6398. [20:49] * Mary sighs.
  6399. [20:49] <Mary> Everything.
  6400. [20:50] * Cerise kneels down next to Mary, reaching out, but pulls away when Mary responds.
  6401. [20:51] <Cerise> Master didn't take it very well.
  6402. [20:51] <Mary> No...
  6403. [20:52] * Cerise takes a seat against the wall also, keeping an arm's length distance from Mary.
  6404. [20:52] <Cerise> I'm...Sorry.
  6405. [20:55] <Mary> Don't be. It was my decision, it's my burden to bear. I just wish it could have been better. That I could be better.
  6406. [20:59] <Cerise> ...That's not true. You're the best person out here in this wasteland. If it's anyone's fault...
  6407. [20:59] <Cerise> If it's anyone's fault you're not as good as you should be...it's mine.
  6408. [21:03] <Mary> ...No. No I'm not, Cerise. I cannot take things all the way. I cannot be the best I can be, out of selfishness and indecision.
  6409. [21:04] <Mary> I have no excuse. You are not an excuse.
  6410. [21:06] <Cerise> Yes, I am! If I never told you how...how I feel about you, then you wouldn't have gotten hurt like this.
  6411. [21:08] <Cerise> I guess...
  6412. [21:08] * Cerise 's voice grows quieter.
  6413. [21:08] * Mary shakes her head.
  6414. [21:08] <Cerise> ...It was a bad idea after all.
  6415. [21:11] <Mary> Cerise, don't tarnish what we have for one another with regret. I made my choice knowing the consequences, and while I do regret the circumstances... I do not regret kissing you.
  6416. [21:13] * Mary pitches her elbow on her knee, and uses her palm to hold her head while contemplating these things.
  6417. [21:14] <Mary> That's something we need to talk about.
  6418. [21:14] <Mary> Our relationship is about to get very complicated.
  6419. [21:16] * Cerise grip around her rifle gets a little tighter.
  6420. [21:16] * Mary . o ( as if it isn't already. )
  6421. [21:18] <Mary> Cerise, a lot of things are going to happen, perhaps sooner and more intensely than we both could expect. There will be words, and there will be pain. These things will drive us apart, if we allow them to do so.
  6422. [21:22] * Cerise merely listens, unable to think of anything to say.
  6423. [21:26] <Mary> If we want to keep what we have between us, we'll have to endure many things... including each other. Are you ready to do that? Are you ready to hurt yourself and the one you love, for better or for worse? Are you ready to give yourself completely for the better of two than one?
  6424. [21:29] * Mary sits up, giving her words their proper attention.
  6425. [21:32] * Cerise takes a moment to take in what Mary is asking her.
  6426. [21:38] * Mary leans her face against her arms crossed on her knees, and cuts the silence:
  6427. [21:38] <Mary> I ask too much of you.
  6428. [21:39] * Cerise tries to speak, but the words get caught in her throat. Why can't I answer?
  6429. [21:40] <Mary> I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, Cerise.
  6430. [21:40] <Mary> I think of you either as an adult or a child whenever one best suits me.
  6431. [21:41] <Mary> I do the same to Ludwig, too...
  6432. [21:53] <Cerise> Then can you really feel about me the same way I feel about you?
  6433. [21:57] * Mary chuckles, in the sad sort of way she did on that night. Her voice is slowly weakening, showing signs that it's going to crack.
  6434. [22:01] <Cerise> I know my way of thinking isn't very common, and really inconvenient especially in the kind of world we live in, but I can't ignore how I feel, especially after last night.
  6435. [22:04] <Mary> ...You know what? I don't know. I don't know if I can live up to the things I say anymore. Every time I think I know myself, that I know you, that I know us, something happens that dashes the false little reality I've made. I'm so naive. Can I return it... Can I... Oh, Lord...
  6436. [22:08] <Mary> I'm sorry, Cerise. I'm so, so sorry. I love you. This, I believe is true, if nothing else. But I don't know! I'm so unsure about everything else... About us, about myself, about Ludwig... About the sex...
  6437. [22:10] * Mary now, seems to be close to tears.
  6438. [22:12] <Cerise> If it hurts you that much...
  6439. [22:12] <Mary> Cerise...
  6440. [22:19] <Cerise> Will you be better person...if I didn't stay with you?
  6441. [22:20] * Mary sits still for about five seconds, swallowing and taking a deep breath.
  6442. [22:20] * Cerise wipes her eyes. Just the idea she's coming up with hurts to tell Mary.
  6443. [22:20] <Cerise> You already can't see me...
  6444. [22:21] <Mary> Cerise.
  6445. [22:21] <Cerise> If I were quieter, it's as if I'm not around anymore.
  6446. [22:22] * Mary continues:
  6447. [22:27] <Mary> The many hours I've spent with you, I think of as a touch of paradise... A dawn rising above the horizon as a beacon of hope, and that that hope may one day spread across these desolate lands, and my desolate heart.
  6448. [22:27] <Mary> You and you alone make me feel this way, that I am alive.
  6449. [22:28] * Mary turns to Cerise, and opens her eyes.
  6450. [22:29] <Mary> In the Bible it is said that men have seen angels in times of trial... But I have seen you, and you are enough.
  6451. [22:35] * Cerise shuts her eyes tight, but try as she might, the tears are making their way out and down her cheeks as she begins sobbing quietly.
  6452. [22:36] <Mary> Oh, Cerise...
  6453. [22:39] * Mary crawls over to her crying friend, and brings her close.
  6454. [22:43] * Cerise holds on to Mary tight, crying into her shoulder.
  6455. [22:45] * Cerise manages to calm down after some time, at least enough so that she sounds coherent when she speaks.
  6456. [22:48] <Cerise> Y...Your question...*sniff*...from before...
  6457. [22:51] * Mary comforts Cerise in silence, stroking her hair and rubbing her back.
  6458. [23:00] <Cerise> I'll put up...with anything, if it meant I could stay...with you.
  6459. [23:01] <Cerise> Even before...I thought that being...your friend would be enough, even if it meant...you'd never know my real feelings.
  6460. [23:03] * Mary after a moment, a tear rolls effortlessly down her cheek. She pushes her head behind Cerise's.
  6461. [23:05] <Mary> You would put up with anything... Are you ready to put up with... me?
  6462. [23:06] * Cerise laughs a little through her tears.
  6463. [23:07] <Cerise> What do you think I've been doing since all this time?
  6464. [23:07] * Mary really starts to cry now.
  6465. [23:08] <Mary> Oh-h-h... I'm so s-, sorry, Cerise... I'm so sorry...
  6466. [23:18] <Cerise> H-hey...Dummy, I didn't say that to...make you cry!
  6467. [23:20] * Mary chokes out a shaky laugh through tears.
  6468. [23:22] <Mary> *sniff* that's... that's what I, what I keep thinking... F-funny how that happens, huh? How we hurt those we love the most... I bet I've hurt you a lot...
  6469. [23:28] * Cerise doesn't speak and merely lays her hand on Mary's.
  6470. [23:36] * Mary continues like this for a short while, but after the sobbing quits, she lean her body and head back against the wall, appearing to look up in closed eyes while pulling Cerise along with her. She sits silently for a moment.
  6471. [23:38] <Mary> I've been doing a lot of crying lately. A little baptism of tears when I need to be renewed. Sometimes, I wonder if I deserve the comfort of tears.
  6472. [23:41] <Cerise> You say that like you're a horrible person.
  6473. [23:42] <Cerise> Which you're not...
  6474. [23:42] <Mary> Hm. I can be pretty bad, sometimes.
  6475. [23:43] <Cerise> You care enough about other people to feel bad that you're hurting them.
  6476. [23:45] * Mary shakes her head.
  6477. [23:46] <Mary> If I cared, I'd be more careful in what I say, and what I do, and how I do them.
  6478. [23:48] <Cerise> Sometimes people won't like what you're telling them no matter what you say.
  6479. [23:50] <Mary> Sometimes people won't like what you're telling them because you've told them otherwise...
  6480. [23:50] * Mary sinks into Cerise.
  6481. [23:51] * Cerise sighs.
  6482. [23:57] <Mary> I'm so worried about Ludwig... I really, really cut him deep today, made all the sharper by inexperience and those involved.
  6483. [00:01] <Mary> I don't know what to do... Ludwig needs somebody. I'll always be there for him in the ways I can, but I can't be there for him in the ways I should.
  6484. [00:03] * Cerise remains quiet. She knew full well Ludwig wouldn't not react in some way.
  6485. [00:07] <Mary> Haah... I don't know what to do. I have a duty to fulfill both to him and the human race, but I'm choosing to fail both of them.
  6486. [00:11] <Mary> I need to clear my mind. I have to do something. And I'll need your help.
  6487. [00:12] <Cerise> ...So, what can I do?
  6488. [00:13] * Mary smiles.
  6489. [00:15] <Mary> Be my companion when I'm alone. Lend me your shoulder when I want to cry. Give yourself to me when I need a hug. Show me your smile when I need to be happy. But above all, just be my friend, just be you.
  6490. [00:19] <Cerise> So...The usual?
  6491. [00:20] * Mary now she really laughs, and jumps forth to hug Cerise exuberantly.
  6492. [00:20] <Mary> Yes!
  6493. [00:22] * Cerise laughs along hugging Mary back.
  6494.  
  6495. ---
  6496. @@Part Three: Mary and Sam, Their Room
  6497. ---
  6498.  
  6499. [21:55] <[GM]Mary> Mini-sessions, part three!
  6500. [22:00] <[GM]Mary> Maids have said their goodbyes, and are now off to bed. In room that once was of Mary and Cerise is now of Mary and Sam, and henceforth brought tidings of wonderful sisterhood and conversation!
  6501. [22:03] <NomDeRevolte> [You're not my GM!]
  6502. [22:03] <[Dune]Sam> [Away you, it's not 1848.]
  6503. [22:11] * Mary sits down on her bed and kicks off her shoes, heaving a heavy sigh as the troubles of her day cloud her mind. She takes off her head gear, along with her blouse, skirt, and socks, revealing a plain, slightly pink camisole and pair of shorts beneath. She flops back on her bed.
  6504. [22:19] * [Dune]Sam walks alone towards Cerise's and Mary's room, finished with the day's duties and ready to rest. For one reason or another tonight's air seems a little chill against her legs (which her miniskirt doesn't do much to protect).
  6505. [22:22] <[Dune]Sam> It's been a long day...
  6506. [22:23] * [Dune]Sam finally sites the door to the room, and stops in front of it momentarily before opening it.
  6507. [22:24] * Mary sits up. Finally time to get to work. Hopefully she'll do better now than she has before.
  6508. [22:25] <Mary> Sam?
  6509. [22:27] * [Dune]Sam enters the room and closes it behind her, shedding her own shoes and looking around the room. Surprisingly, Cerise isn't here...
  6510. [22:27] <[Dune]Sam> Yes?
  6511. [22:28] * Mary smiles, and lends a welcoming voice.
  6512. [22:30] <Mary> Take a seat.
  6513. [22:32] * [Dune]Sam ceases her undressing upon hearing Mary again, having just dismissed her socks and sits down on the bed next to Mary's. She's slightly (ever so) anxious about what she has to say...
  6514. [22:34] <Mary> So, what do you think?
  6515. [22:35] * [Dune]Sam blinks and responds cluelessly, though that is false: (does this have to do with why Cerise isn't here...?)
  6516. [22:35] <[Dune]Sam> ...about what?
  6517. [22:36] * Mary smiles, and stands her hands of both sides of her on the bed.
  6518. [22:36] <Mary> Anything.
  6519. [22:36] <Mary> Are you getting along with Teilya and the rest? She seems to be taken with you.
  6520. [22:38] * [Dune]Sam 's shyness shines through a little, and she fidgets just a bit while speaking slightly nervously.
  6521. [22:39] * [Dune]Sam also recalls her accompanying Teilya earlier in the day, and how soft her tail was... she blushes slightly in that remembrance.
  6522. [22:39] <[Dune]Sam> um, yeah, Teilya's nice.
  6523. [22:42] <[Dune]Sam> I was helping her a bit earlier with that guy, and lunch...
  6524. [22:43] <[Dune]Sam> I haven't seen many others today, though.
  6525. [22:46] <Mary> That's good. I'm glad you've found a place here, already.
  6526. [22:47] <Mary> You may not know it, but you help Teilya immeasurably just by being with her. It's a good thing you do, and you have my thanks for it.
  6527. [22:47] * [Dune]Sam nods, her mind still a bit on when Teilya was toying with her a bit earlier in the day. (her tail really is soft...)
  6528. [22:48] * [Dune]Sam responds to the comment with some nervousness in her voice.
  6529. [22:48] <[Dune]Sam> um, thank you, i guess...
  6530. [22:48] * Mary . o ( So shy~ )
  6531. [22:49] * Mary (but...)
  6532. [22:49] <Mary> ...Hmm. Is something the matter, Sam?
  6533. [22:50] * [Dune]Sam blushes a bit.
  6534. [22:51] <[Dune]Sam> n-not really...
  6535. [22:51] * Mary 's smile falls, and brows show she's listening closely.
  6536. [22:51] * Mary brow, even
  6537. [22:53] <Mary> Are you sure? If there's anything - anything at all I can answer, help, or do for you, do not hesitate to ask. Now, I know you're shy, but if there's ever a real problem and you need someone, please come talk to me or Teilya.
  6538. [22:55] <Mary> If you're just tired, then go to sleep. If you need to talk, my time is yours, and my ears are always listening.
  6539. [22:55] * [Dune]Sam nods slowly and replies, although still not quite answering the question.
  6540. [22:56] <[Dune]Sam> um, thank you...
  6541. [22:58] * [Dune]Sam fidgets just a bit further before managing to proceed.
  6542. [22:59] <[Dune]Sam> i... guess it's not really a problem, but would you really try and help...?
  6543. [23:00] * Mary sits forth in attention, completely serious, but retains a smile.
  6544. [23:01] <Mary> Yes. It is, in fact, my duty to do so, though I would help you in any way I could regardless of my work. I will be happy to help you.
  6545. [23:02] * [Dune]Sam raises her dropped head to look at Mary, and manages to smile slightly though her shy streak is still plain in her speech.
  6546. [23:02] <[Dune]Sam> t-thank you...
  6547. [23:03] * [Dune]Sam fidgets a bit more in silence before speaking her mind more freely.
  6548. [23:04] <[Dune]Sam> it's just that earlier today, i felt a bit weird...
  6549. [23:05] <Mary> Oh?
  6550. [23:06] * [Dune]Sam blushes just a bit, recalling again her accompaniment of Teilya earlier.
  6551. [23:06] <[Dune]Sam> Teilya's tail is soft...
  6552. [23:07] * [Dune]Sam then shakes her head slightly, and speaks in stead of whispers.
  6553. [23:08] <[Dune]Sam> this morning i was helping Teilya with some things...
  6554. [23:09] * Mary is a little more... ept in these matters now, considering all the things that have happened in the last twenty-four hours, but withholds jumping to conclusions and hears her out.
  6555. [23:11] * [Dune]Sam begins semi-reviewing her day with Teilya.
  6556. [23:12] <[Dune]Sam> after watching the clinic, and just before we headed to the kitchen to make lunch, she offered to make me a new skirt...
  6557. [23:13] <Mary> A new skirt? Is there something wrong with the one you have?
  6558. [23:13] * [Dune]Sam tugs a little at her rather short and unprotective miniskirt.
  6559. [23:14] <[Dune]Sam> it's a little... short.
  6560. [23:14] <[Dune]Sam> b-but i don't want her taking the trouble of trying to make a new one, this one works fine...
  6561. [23:15] * [Dune]Sam fidgets and blushes slightly.
  6562. [23:18] <Mary> Hm. If you're worried about her making an extraneous effort for you, don't be. It's good for Teilya to keep herself busy, and if it's for you, then all the better. We'd replace your skirt for you, anyway.
  6563. [23:19] * [Dune]Sam blinks at Mary's profession that she'd perform the same service and is slightly surprised (though not unpleasantly).
  6564. [23:19] <[Dune]Sam> ah, i see...
  6565. [23:19] <Mary> I'm sure it's no trouble to her. In fact, she probably likes doing it, simply because it's for the new bashful girl. For Sam.
  6566. [23:21] * [Dune]Sam blushes upon being called 'bashful', though it does no part to counter it. She stops speaking and gasps slightly.
  6567. [23:21] * [Dune]Sam 's state is probably capable of being sensed, even with the distance between the two.
  6568. [23:22] * Mary almost feels a radiant of heat from the poor girl's ears. Almost.
  6569. [23:24] * [Dune]Sam 's level of embarrassment falls over a minute, and she is able to continue by ignoring the comment (verbally, anyway).
  6570. [23:25] <[Dune]Sam> um-m, anyway, we then started heading to the kitchen to make lunch...
  6571. [23:30] <[Dune]Sam> and she brushed her tail against me.
  6572. [23:30] <[Dune]Sam> it was soft...
  6573. [23:30] <Mary> ...?
  6574. [23:30] * [Dune]Sam feels a little silly sharing this, and stops.
  6575. [23:33] * [Dune]Sam 's voice falls a bit.
  6576. [23:33] <Mary> What do you mean? Like, by accident?
  6577. [23:34] <[Dune]Sam> no, but it was soft, and nice...
  6578. [23:34] * [Dune]Sam 's voice trails off.
  6579. [23:34] <[Dune]Sam> this is silly, sorry to bother you...
  6580. [23:35] <Mary> Hahaha, no, no bother at all. Even silly things need due reckoning.
  6581. [23:36] <Mary> But from what you say... She's been feeling you with her tail on purpose?
  6582. [23:36] * Mary shifts on her bed.
  6583. [23:37] <[Dune]Sam> um, yes, i guess...
  6584. [23:38] * [Dune]Sam blushes a little further and speaks more softly.
  6585. [23:38] <Mary> Hmm. That's interesting.
  6586. [23:39] * Mary is a little jealous, as she only gets to play with Teilya's nekobits when she can manage to catch her unawares in the bath. Good for her, then!
  6587. [23:39] <Mary> Do you think it's invasive?
  6588. [23:40] * [Dune]Sam fidgets a little more where she's sitting on the bed before proceeding.
  6589. [23:40] <[Dune]Sam> u-umm...
  6590. [23:42] <[Dune]Sam> s-she just did that and touched me a lot when she took measurements for my skirt, and made me feel weird...
  6591. [23:42] * [Dune]Sam finally just speaks out with it.
  6592. [23:43] <Mary> ...hmm.
  6593. [23:43] * [Dune]Sam also blushes more than she has before in this room tonight.
  6594. [23:45] * Mary sits with her chin perched atop her hand for a few moments, deep in thought.
  6595. [23:47] * [Dune]Sam fidgets some more, and then brings up her legs to fold them just under and beside her on the bed.
  6596. [23:47] <[Dune]Sam> s-so that's it.
  6597. [23:48] <[Dune]Sam> n-not a problem, but not-not one either...
  6598. [23:49] * [Dune]Sam falls silent.
  6599. [23:50] <Mary> Judging from what I know of Teilya for the past year and your current relationship with her, I would say that Teilya was merely being playful. She's probably just as aware of your shy attitude as I am, and she might do those things to get a reaction out of you. Heh, she probably thinks it's cute. But anyhow, she's not the kind of person that would be mean to you for no reason. If it makes you feel uncomfortable, just say so, and I'm sure she'll understand. She won't think less of you for it.
  6600. [23:52] * [Dune]Sam gulps.
  6601. [23:53] <[Dune]Sam> a-ah, i see... that's kinda what i thought...
  6602. [23:53] * Mary folds her hands in her lap.
  6603. [23:53] <Mary> Would you like me to talk to her?
  6604. [23:54] <[Dune]Sam> umm...
  6605. [23:55] * [Dune]Sam 's mind is engaged in an interesting conflict. ( I-i kinda don't want her to, but i don't want to disappoint her, either... )
  6606. [23:56] * [Dune]Sam sums it up with an indecisive comment.
  6607. [23:56] <[Dune]Sam> i-i dunno...
  6608. [00:05] <Mary> If I can say anything about Teilya with full confidence, it is that she is not someone you need be afraid of. Her physical advances are probably genial in nature, it's just another way for her to show affection for you.
  6609. [00:06] * [Dune]Sam 's embarrassment and nervousness begin to recede in tiny increments.
  6610. [00:06] <Mary> Like I said before, she's quite taken with you. It is perhaps a product of her nature and her will to amend past sins.
  6611. [00:08] <[Dune]Sam> I see...
  6612. [00:09] * Mary does not.
  6613. [00:11] * [Dune]Sam blushes slightly again.
  6614. [00:11] <[Dune]Sam> it's...fine if you don't talk to her, then...
  6615. [00:12] * Mary slowly gets nowhere. Hmm...
  6616. [00:15] <Mary> ...Would you rather work with someone other than Teilya?
  6617. [00:15] * [Dune]Sam raises her head and eyes in surprise at this.
  6618. [00:16] * Mary listens carefully to her tone. This is not one that is so straightforward.
  6619. [00:16] * [Dune]Sam , while she still speaks timidly, is somewhat upfront.
  6620. [00:16] <[Dune]Sam> no, she's really nice...
  6621. [00:19] <Mary> Hmm...
  6622. [00:19] * [Dune]Sam thinks to herself also: (I-if she does that much, and that's her way of showing affection, then she really must like me a lot... I can't deny that from her.)
  6623. [00:23] <Mary> You think she's nice, Hmm... Can you tell me what you like about her?
  6624. [00:23] * [Dune]Sam 's heart skips a beat in surprise, and she blushes some more.
  6625. [00:24] * [Dune]Sam : nervousLevel++;
  6626. [00:24] <[Dune]Sam> umm...
  6627. [00:25] * [Dune]Sam tries to stall a bit so she can form something coherent to say.
  6628. [00:26] <Mary> You know what?
  6629. [00:26] <Mary> I've been asking you too many questions. Is there anything you'd rather ask of me?
  6630. [00:26] * [Dune]Sam gives a quizzical look, and then understanding, relaxes a bit.
  6631. [00:28] * [Dune]Sam sighs, and then speaks one that has been on the border of her mind since she entered the room:
  6632. [00:28] <[Dune]Sam> why isn't Cerise here?
  6633. [00:30] <Mary> Ah. She's sleeping in another room.
  6634. [00:31] * [Dune]Sam remembers her manners, but does not stop.
  6635. [00:32] <[Dune]Sam> i'm sorry, i don't mean to pry... but why?
  6636. [00:32] * [Dune]Sam gives a quizzical look at Mary.
  6637. [00:33] <Mary> Well, we didn't want to make you feel like a third wheel, so to speak. The master believes me more capable of assisting you on a one on one basis like this, and I agreed to it.
  6638. [00:35] * Mary gives the plain truth, but still wishes to sleep with Cerise again. Haah... I'll have to do something about all that.
  6639. [00:36] * [Dune]Sam nods.
  6640. [00:36] <[Dune]Sam> hmm~, i didn't feel like a third wheel though, and you and Cerise seem close...
  6641. [00:37] * Mary smiles, in a distant sort of way.
  6642. [00:37] <Mary> We are.
  6643. [00:38] * [Dune]Sam sees Mary's smile, and is a little troubled.
  6644. [00:39] * [Dune]Sam (her smile seems a little different...)
  6645. [00:41] <[Dune]Sam> then might it be possible for her to sleep in here again?
  6646. [00:42] <Mary> Maybe.
  6647. [00:43] <Mary> Do you like Cerise?
  6648. [00:43] * [Dune]Sam nods audibly.
  6649. [00:43] * Mary hears.
  6650. [00:44] <[Dune]Sam> she and you are kind...
  6651. [00:44] * [Dune]Sam 's shyness reenters the mix a bit.
  6652. [00:45] <Mary> Hmhm. Yeah, she's got a really good heart to her, as well.
  6653. [00:45] <Mary> Everyone here does, really.
  6654. [00:46] <[Dune]Sam> ah.
  6655. [00:46] * [Dune]Sam gives a simple affirmative.
  6656. [00:48] <Mary> Though we're all different, we're all lonely souls in search of a little love. Haha, some want a lot of love... I can't say I'm not amongst those. That's why we all work really hard for one another.
  6657. [00:49] * [Dune]Sam blushes a little, and wonders a bit about the day's events.
  6658. [00:51] * Mary keeps a sad smile, as she thinks about her friends... and above all, the paradox that is Ludwig and Cerise.
  6659. [00:53] * [Dune]Sam worries a little when she sees Mary's sad smile. (I want to ask if anything's wrong, but...)
  6660. [00:53] * [Dune]Sam fidgets, with the conflict.
  6661. [00:58] <Mary> We all want to work hard for you, too.
  6662. [00:58] * [Dune]Sam blinks, surprised a little.
  6663. [00:58] <[Dune]Sam> eh?
  6664. [01:00] * Mary shifts her smile to her regular, confident one.
  6665. [01:00] * [Dune]Sam blushes.
  6666. [01:01] <Mary> It's true. Whether you like it or not, you're a part of us now.
  6667. [01:06] <Mary> It could be why Teilya is acting the way she is. Perhaps you should talk to Cerise about that, she's better friends with Teilya than I am.
  6668. [01:06] * [Dune]Sam responds a little slowly, nervous a little yet again.
  6669. [01:06] <[Dune]Sam> ...alright.
  6670. [01:13] * [Dune]Sam remains silent for a few moment.
  6671. [01:14] * Mary brings her legs up on the bed, crossing them and reaches behind herself, apparently undoing her bra through her shirt absentmindedly. She drops it, along with her other dirty clothes, in a basket near the foot of the bed.
  6672. [01:14] <Mary> Is there anything else you want to talk about?
  6673. [01:15] * [Dune]Sam blushes, and averts her head slightly.
  6674. [01:18] <[Dune]Sam> umm, i don't think so...
  6675. [01:19] * [Dune]Sam slightly more quietly:
  6676. [01:19] <[Dune]Sam> ...you've really helped me for now, thank you.
  6677. [01:22] * Mary smiles once more:
  6678. [01:22] <Mary> You're welcome.
  6679. [01:23] <Mary> Do you need something to sleep in?
  6680. [01:24] * [Dune]Sam retains a slight blush.
  6681. [01:25] <[Dune]Sam> ...yes.
  6682. [01:30] <Mary> There's a dresser at the end of the bed. Take whatever you want from it, and put your dirty clothes in the basket. You should have one, too.
  6683. [01:30] * [Dune]Sam rises from the bed and makes her way to the dresser, opening it and inspecting its contents.
  6684. [01:37] * [Dune]Sam sifts through the clothing, eventually producing and holding up a small white nightgown.
  6685. [01:38] <[Dune]Sam> um, thank you.
  6686. [01:38] <Mary> Mmmhmm.
  6687. [01:40] * Mary starts climbing into bed, but stops for a moment.
  6688. [01:40] <Mary> -Oh, you mind if I ask you one more thing?
  6689. [01:40] * [Dune]Sam then closes the dresser moves back into the room and on the far side of her bed from Mary with the nightgown, readying herself to undress.
  6690. [01:41] * [Dune]Sam stops before doing so, however, to face Mary.
  6691. [01:41] <[Dune]Sam> ah, go ahead.
  6692. [01:42] <Mary> I'm sorry if this is bad to bring up, but... How is your memory? Can you think of anything today that you couldn't when we found you?
  6693. [01:43] * [Dune]Sam 's voice turns to a slightly sullen tone.
  6694. [01:44] * [Dune]Sam closes her eyes and tries to scour her mind for any memories for a moment, but fails.
  6695. [01:44] <[Dune]Sam> ...sorry, no.
  6696. [01:47] <Mary> It's okay. These things will either come to you in time, or... Well they won't, and you'll just have to begin anew. This fortress may not seem like it, but it's a great place for renewal, for making memories that you want to keep...
  6697. [01:47] * Mary trails off, and then shakes her head and smiles back at Sam.
  6698. [01:48] <Mary> We'll definitely try to make some good memories for you anyway, alright?
  6699. [01:48] * [Dune]Sam smiles just a little this time, instead of blushing. after taking a deep breath, she seems to speak with a little renewal and refreshment herself.
  6700. [01:48] <[Dune]Sam> yeah.
  6701. [01:49] <Mary> Hmhm. Good night, Sam.
  6702. [01:49] <[Dune]Sam> Goodnight.
  6703. [01:49] * Mary pulls a thin sheet over her, and turns in her bed.
  6704. [01:50] <Mary> If you get cold, there's some extra blankets under your bed...*yawn*... ahh... it's finally over...
  6705. [01:50] * [Dune]Sam undresses herself at leisure with no more attention upon her for the day and dons the nightgown she chose.
  6706. [01:51] <[Dune]Sam> alright, thanks.
  6707. [01:51] <Mary> Mmhmm...
  6708. [01:53] * [Dune]Sam then slips into her own bed, pulling the sheets over herself and turning off the lamp beside it, so she may visit the world of dreams...
  6709.  
  6710.  
  6711.  
  6712.  
  6713.  
  6714.  
  6715.  
  6716. @@---
  6717. @@=====
  6718. @@Session Fourteen
  6719. @@=====
  6720. @@---
  6721.  
  6722. [00:53] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sam, you wake up first.]
  6723. [00:54] <[GM]Ludwig> [Mary is lying on your bed, over the covers, still asleep.]
  6724. [00:55] * [Gtz]Mary snores softly
  6725. [00:56] <[Gtz]Mary> ahhmm... go fish... ZzzZzzzZzz.....
  6726. [00:57] * [Dune]Sam squirms a little under the sheets, readjusting herself and unconsciously adjusting for Mary's obstruction.
  6727. [00:59] <[Dune]Sam> mmnnn...
  6728. [01:00] * [Dune]Sam rolls on the bed, bumping into Mary.
  6729. [01:00] * [Gtz]Mary drifts lazily like one of those traffic cones they put in the middle of lakes
  6730. [01:02] * [Dune]Sam then slowly opens her eyes and rubs them as she comes into consciousness.
  6731. [01:03] * [Dune]Sam starts to get out of bed, but feels something pulling on the sheets.
  6732. [01:03] * [Gtz]Mary is strewn out in one of those horrid ways in which only children can sleep
  6733. [01:03] <[Dune]Sam> what's -ii!
  6734. [01:04] * [Dune]Sam quickly scurries back in the opposite direction of the bed from Mary, giving the bedcovers a good hard tug.
  6735. [01:07] * [Dune]Sam blushes, her mind running with a quick and sudden start. (W-why's Mary in my bed?)
  6736. [01:07] * [Dune]Sam slowly creeps her way out of the bed now, careful to try and not shift the sheets.
  6737. [01:08] * [Gtz]Mary yawns and rolls over.
  6738. [01:10] * [Gtz]Mary 's shirt rides up a little bit.
  6739. [01:12] * [Dune]Sam blushes a bit further upon seeing Mary's belly/stomach area.
  6740. [01:13] * [Dune]Sam is flustered enough and focuses enough on not disturbing Mary that she even falls out of the bed with a little thud, now.
  6741. [01:13] <[Dune]Sam> ow! ah...
  6742. [01:17] * [Dune]Sam quickly picks herself up off the ground after rubbing her side and brushing herself off.
  6743. [01:17] * [Dune]Sam glances at Mary again as she does so, still blushing slightly.
  6744. [01:18] * [Gtz]Mary rubs her head against the pillow like a dog
  6745. [01:22] * [Dune]Sam continues looking on silently for a moment before moving her gaze away and quietly stepping towards the dresser.
  6746. [01:26] * [Dune]Sam stops for a moment, though, and takes a half-step towards Mary thinking that perhaps she should wake her before she starts getting dressed...
  6747. [01:27] * [Gtz]Mary stops breathing.
  6748. [01:29] * [Dune]Sam decides reluctantly that she should probably awaken Mary now so she has time to dress as well.
  6749. [01:29] * [Dune]Sam slowly walks over beside her bed again, this time nearer to Mary.
  6750. [01:29] <[Dune]Sam> Mary...
  6751. [01:30] * [Dune]Sam cannot muster a strong voice quickly however, and so first whispers.
  6752. [01:30] <[Dune]Sam> um, Mary...
  6753. [01:30] * [Dune]Sam tries speaking Mary's name to get her to awaken.
  6754. [01:32] <[Gtz]Mary> s...ss................sSSSNRRRRK! snmm...
  6755. [01:32] * [Gtz]Mary breathes normally again
  6756. [01:33] * [Dune]Sam continues trying to awaken Mary, this time continuing with light prodding.
  6757. [01:34] * [Dune]Sam lightly pokes at Mary's upper right arm while speaking.
  6758. [01:34] <[Dune]Sam> Mary, it's morning...
  6759. [01:35] * [Gtz]Mary is unfazed.
  6760. [01:36] * [Dune]Sam prods again, a little more forcefully.
  6761. [01:37] <[Dune]Sam> Mary, y-you're sleeping in my bed...
  6762. [01:37] * [Gtz]Mary paws at the prodding
  6763. [01:38] <[Gtz]Mary> snm... what is it, ceri- i mean, sam...
  6764. [01:39] * [Dune]Sam speaks a little more softly.
  6765. [01:39] * [Gtz]Mary didn't seem to understand her, but is finally starting to wake up
  6766. [01:39] <[Dune]Sam> It's morning Mary, and you w-were sleeping in my bed...
  6767. [01:42] * [Gtz]Mary yawns, shaking off the sleepiness and fixing the little shoulder straps on her camisole
  6768. [01:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Uuhmm... Do what, now? I'm sorry, I should've been up earlier... What time is it?
  6769. [01:44] <[Dune]Sam> um, morning, i guess...
  6770. [01:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Mmm... Good morning, Sam. Do you need something?
  6771. [01:46] * [Dune]Sam at this point just moves over to her dresser, and starts donning her daywear outfit complete with miniskirt.
  6772. [01:47] <[Dune]Sam> G-good morning.
  6773. [01:47] <[Dune]Sam> I just wanted to make sure you got up and...
  6774. [01:47] <[Dune]Sam> uh, yeah.
  6775. [01:48] * [Dune]Sam refrains from mentioning yet again that Mary was sleeping in her own bed.
  6776. [01:51] * [Gtz]Mary starts making the bed, blissfully oblivious, as usual
  6777. [01:53] * [Dune]Sam sees this and stops, deciding to address the matter despite her shyness before Mary does more unnecessary work.
  6778. [01:53] <[Dune]Sam> um, Mary?
  6779. [01:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? You say something?
  6780. [01:55] * [Gtz]Mary says, leaning over the bed. It's hard to get that one corner...
  6781. [01:57] * [Gtz]Mary finishes, and goes over to the other. I swear I didn't put any blankets on last night...
  6782. [01:57] * [Dune]Sam gulps, and blushes ever so tinily.
  6783. [01:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, let me get this one too.
  6784. [01:57] <[Dune]Sam> y-you were sleeping on my bed, when i woke up...
  6785. [01:58] * [Gtz]Mary stops, halfway through fixing the other bed.
  6786. [01:58] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh?
  6787. [01:59] * [Gtz]Mary stands up straight, and feels for the little knob at the edge of the bed to re-orient herself to the room's direction. Door's to my back, Sam should've been sleeping... here?
  6788. [02:00] <[Gtz]Mary> You weren't sleeping in this bed?
  6789. [02:00] * [Dune]Sam drops her head a little and embarrassed at having spoken that fact.
  6790. [02:00] <[Dune]Sam> n-no, i was...
  6791. [02:01] * [Dune]Sam blushes a little more.
  6792. [02:02] <[Gtz]Mary> Then what's the problem?
  6793. [02:02] <[Dune]Sam> a-and you were kinda on top of me...
  6794. [02:03] <[Gtz]Mary> On... top of you? Are you sure you weren't dreaming or something, sweetie?
  6795. [02:04] * [Gtz]Mary is perplexed
  6796. [02:04] <[Dune]Sam> y-yes...
  6797. [02:05] * [Gtz]Mary isn't really sure what to make of this
  6798. [02:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Um... Well... A-are you sure? Maybe I...
  6799. [02:07] * [Gtz]Mary thinks. I don't remember getting up in the middle of the night...
  6800. [02:08] * [Dune]Sam still stands half-dressed in front of the dresser, head dropped, blushing, and embarrassed...
  6801. [02:09] * [Gtz]Mary still stands undressed(save for bedclothes) in front of the bed, head scratched, twisting her lip, and puzzled...
  6802. [02:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, I don't know. I must be sleepwalking or something. I apologize, in any case.
  6803. [02:13] <[Dune]Sam> u-uh, thanks...
  6804. [02:13] * [Dune]Sam turns around now and resumes dressing.
  6805. [02:14] * [Gtz]Mary continues getting ready. Continues slowly, a little hesitant about stepping out that door today.
  6806. [02:18] * [Dune]Sam , to be fair, moves to make Mary's bed once she's done dressing. Granted it isn't as much of a task as making her own due to an absent user, but she still wants to do something to equalize things.
  6807. [02:21] * [Gtz]Mary decides to pray on it, fully nun'd up aside from the hat. She kneels before either bed, arms folded together and elevating her head at the mattress's edge. A series of inaudible whispers follow.
  6808. [02:24] * [Dune]Sam finishes readying herself and then goes beside the door to semi-awkwardly wait for Mary.
  6809. [02:26] * [Gtz]Mary finishes, and returns to Sam.
  6810. [02:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Thank you.
  6811. [02:27] * [Dune]Sam nods.
  6812. [02:27] <[Dune]Sam> You're welcome.
  6813. [02:30] * [Dune]Sam opens the door and steps out, the flustering morning encounter's embarrassment beginning to pass.
  6814. [02:30] * [Gtz]Mary takes a deep breath. Today is another fresh start. A chance to make things better. At least, I hope it is...
  6815. [02:37] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh. What're you going to do?
  6816. [02:40] * [Dune]Sam muses to herself.
  6817. [02:40] <[Dune]Sam> I'm not really sure...
  6818. [02:41] <[Dune]Sam> there's still a lot of the fortress i haven't seen, i guess.
  6819. [02:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm. Well, I'm going to go start breakfast. Could you go find Alexis for me?
  6820. [02:42] <[Gtz]Mary> And maybe after breakfast, one of us can show you around.
  6821. [02:42] * [Dune]Sam nods slowly.
  6822. [02:42] <[Dune]Sam> um, I guess so...
  6823. [02:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm?
  6824. [02:43] * [Gtz]Mary stops.
  6825. [02:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Is there a problem, sweetheart?
  6826. [02:47] * [Dune]Sam drops her head a little and chews lightly on her thumbnail.
  6827. [02:50] <[Dune]Sam> she's a little scary...
  6828. [02:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Who, Alexis? Hmhm, I thought so too when I first showed up here, but she only acts that way. She's quite nice, at heart.
  6829. [02:55] * [Dune]Sam is reluctant to believe Mary on this subject.
  6830. [02:56] <[Dune]Sam> ...are you sure?
  6831. [02:58] <[Gtz]Mary> Certain. She's probably just picking on you a little because you're new here. If you prefer, I could try to find her, but I'm not sure what luck I might have... she's a little... all over the place.
  6832. [03:01] * [Dune]Sam accepts Mary's judgment, and doesn't want to inconvenience her further...
  6833. [03:01] <[Dune]Sam> um, alright then.
  6834. [03:04] * [Dune]Sam gulps, and straightens herself.
  6835. [03:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright then. You remember where the kitchen is, right? I'll be in there. Cerise is pro-bab-ly out on the roof and... the Master is probably still in bed. I dunno where Teilya would be right now.
  6836. [03:05] * [Dune]Sam nods.
  6837. [03:05] <[Dune]Sam> ok.
  6838. [03:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Alright. She shouldn't be too hard for you to find. If you don't have any luck, just come back to me and help out with breakfast. I'll talk to you later, Sam.
  6839. [03:08] * [Gtz]Mary makes her way to the kitchen
  6840. [03:09] * [Dune]Sam takes a deep breath, and then wonders just how she should start looking around for Alexis...
  6841. [03:11] * [Dune]Sam turns toward the opposing direction of the one Mary took, and starts walking.
  6842. [03:13] * [Dune]Sam , several minutes later and after having poked her head into various rooms, seems no closer to finding Alexis...
  6843. [03:17] * [Nom]Alexis slips out of a nearby door, closing it softly behind her
  6844. [03:17] * [Dune]Sam finally halts in the hall after finding no clue of anyone around, and does not hear the door close behind her.
  6845. [03:20] * [Nom]Alexis puts her hand on the cart she came out with, and starts wheeling it towards the kitchen
  6846. [03:20] * [Dune]Sam , just as she is beginning to believe she has gotten herself lost, hears the cart and turns around.
  6847. [03:21] <[Dune]Sam> Alexis!
  6848. [03:21] * [Nom]Alexis spins around to face whoever shouted out just then
  6849. [03:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "Shh!"
  6850. [03:22] * [Nom]Alexis puts a finger to her lips, hushes the miscreant, and, beckoning for her to follow, continues towards the kitchen
  6851. [03:23] * [Dune]Sam cocks her head to the side in confusion, but quickly hurries to walk beside Alexis.
  6852. [03:24] * [Nom]Alexis chats in a low voice
  6853. [03:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hush, Sam. It seems the master wore himself out with something. Best to let him sleep it off."
  6854. [03:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "While he does, we need to prepare."
  6855. [03:26] * [Dune]Sam still looks thoroughly confused, but is pleasantly surprised by her lack of aggression.
  6856. [03:26] * [Dune]Sam replies in a low voice:
  6857. [03:26] <[Dune]Sam> um, what are you doing with this cart...?
  6858. [03:27] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, this is a tea trolley. Sam, trolley. Trolley, tube person."
  6859. [03:27] * [Nom]Alexis introduces the maid essential to Sam
  6860. [03:31] * [Dune]Sam frowns a little at having been called tube person and fidgets with her miniskirt a bit.
  6861. [03:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh ho, now that we've all been introduced, it's time we get to work."
  6862. [03:34] * [Dune]Sam frowns a little bit less.
  6863. [03:35] <[Dune]Sam> where is the tea being taken, then?
  6864. [03:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, excellent question, dear."
  6865. [03:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "We must reload and prepare for the master's morning."
  6866. [03:36] * [Nom]Alexis swells
  6867. [03:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's right, it is a battle which begins right now!"
  6868. [03:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "Come, Sam! To the Beetle-kitchen!"
  6869. [03:38] * [Dune]Sam finds Alexis's enthusiasm a little odd, but a little nice.
  6870. [03:38] <[Dune]Sam> alright, then.
  6871. [03:38] * [Dune]Sam hurries along with Alexis to the kitchen.
  6872. [03:38] * [Nom]Alexis gives Sam a disarming grin, then away!
  6873. ---
  6874. @@Cerise's Room
  6875. ---
  6876. [01:50] * [PYG]Cerise opens her eyes and finds herself staring at a wall across the room.
  6877. [01:51] <[PYG]Cerise> Oh, that's right...
  6878. [01:51] <[GM]Ludwig> [Still passed out cold in his room]
  6879. [01:51] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sorry, we'll get out of your way, now]
  6880. [01:51] * [PYG]Cerise says, disappointment obvious in her voice, as she sits up and stretches her arms.
  6881. [01:54] * [PYG]Cerise takes a moment before finally getting herself out of bed to start dressing into her uniform.
  6882. [01:58] * [PYG]Cerise finally gets into her uniform, placing her headdress upon her head last. She takes her rifle leaning by the wall and makes her way to the door of the room. After taking in a deep breath and exhaling, she reaches for the knob and steps out of the room.
  6883. [02:05] * [PYG]Cerise shivers as she walks down the hallway. Another cold morning. It feels rather empty on this side of the mansion, and the echoes of her steps down the hall doesn't help much in alleviating that feeling.
  6884. [02:31] <[GM]Ludwig> [Well, it would've been nice if Teilya could've shown up to say "good morning" to Cerise, but I guess that isn't happening.]
  6885. [02:36] * [PYG]Cerise climbs some stairs that lead to one of the walls of the fortress. Couldn't hurt to do some morning patrol.
  6886. [03:00] <[GM]Ludwig> [Remember that cloud on the horizon yesterday morning, just before Hans came limping up? It's still there. Might even be bigger, now.]
  6887. [03:01] * [PYG]Cerise stares out at the distance before raising her rifle to look through the scope for a better view.
  6888. [03:06] <[GM]Ludwig> [It hasn't gotten any closer since yesterday (thank God for small favors), so you can't make out much more than you could before. You do think you see movement, though, at the bottom of the cloud... and within it.]
  6889. [03:10] * [PYG]Cerise clicks her tongue as she takes her eye off the scope. This is really unsettling.
  6890. [03:34] * [PYG]Cerise returns back inside, heading for the kitchen to grab a quick breakfast. It would be awkward if she ran into Ludwig, but she decides telling him about the cloud not disappearing has precedence before personal issues. The fortress's safety is at stake here.
  6891.  
  6892.  
  6893.  
  6894.  
  6895.  
  6896.  
  6897.  
  6898.  
  6899. @@---
  6900. @@=====
  6901. @@Session Fifteen
  6902. @@=====
  6903. @@---
  6904.  
  6905. [23:26] <[Gtz]Mary> [last time, on BF Tag Team]
  6906. [23:30] <[GM]Ludwig> ["Quickly, Sam, to the Beetle-Kitchen!"]
  6907. [23:42] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sam has been sent to fetch more tea from the larder. Does that sound right?]
  6908. [23:42] <[Nom]Alexis> [Sounds good]
  6909. [23:34] * [Nom]Alexis bursts into the kitchen and starts preparing for the master's morning with haste but no hurry
  6910. [23:43] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, coffee, bacon, omlettes--Morning, Mary!--fork, coffee, napkins, coffee..."
  6911. [23:44] * [Gtz]Mary cooks in the dark, but stops a moment to greet Alexis.
  6912. [23:45] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, good morning, Alexis. Did Sam find you without any trouble?
  6913. [23:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "...biscuits, pot, sugar--Yes dear, she just went to get something from the larder--saucer, forceps, cups..."
  6914. [23:47] * [Dune]Sam enters at that moment, holding a tray that in-turn holds a brick/parcel of tea leaves. Also featuring: various ceramics necessary for a good dinner.
  6915. [23:47] * [Dune]Sam all in all seems a little overloaded.
  6916. [23:47] <[Dune]Sam> mmph...
  6917. [23:48] * [Dune]Sam , with some biscuits piled on top of the tea parcel, cannot see in front of her very well and so misses Mary.
  6918. [23:48] * [Gtz]Mary can't see at all, so yeah
  6919. [23:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "...salt, salad, dressing, spoon, spoon, spoo--Sam, did you find any spoons?"
  6920. [23:53] * [Dune]Sam 's tray rattles as she continues to struggle to keep it aloft, barely managing to move forward at all. Metallic clinking may be heard as well.
  6921. [23:53] <[Dune]Sam> y-yeah-
  6922. [23:53] * [Dune]Sam , from the sound of her voice and breath, is very much strained by this weight.
  6923. [23:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "knife, spork, knork--Ah, thank you, sweetheart. Hold onto these for a teensy bit, will you?"
  6924. [23:55] * [Nom]Alexis balances a few fugs and a basket on top of Sam's stack
  6925. [23:55] * [Dune]Sam grunts, and speaks desperately.
  6926. [23:55] <[Dune]Sam> nn-help? Please?
  6927. [23:56] * [Dune]Sam 's tray rattles more vigorously now, her arms evidently about to fail.
  6928. [23:55] <[GM]Ludwig> [Hold up. Skill check time.]
  6929. [23:56] <[GM]Ludwig> [This is an actual die roll. Crazy, huh?]
  6930. [00:09] <[GM]Ludwig> [Rolled 9 Luck out of a 10 difficulty: a couple of spoons drop, maybe a biscuit or two, but the majority is restored to balance.]
  6931. [00:10] <[GM]Ludwig> [Sam gets her arms positioned a little bit better; the danger seems past.]
  6932. [00:11] * [Dune]Sam still seems to be straining to counter gravity's force on this tray to a very uncomfortable and difficult degree, however.
  6933. [00:11] * [Gtz]Mary turns the handle of the skillet sideways, and looks towards Sam.
  6934. [00:11] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? Is something wrong?
  6935. [00:11] * [Dune]Sam manages to shuffle one step closer to the counter, still grunting.
  6936. [00:12] <[Dune]Sam> t-this tray, I can't hold it much longer...
  6937. [00:12] * [Dune]Sam accidentally drops a spoon while she speaks, and its metallic clang off of the floor is very much audible.
  6938. [00:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "...butter, marmalade, jam--Ah, Sam, help me juggle--"
  6939. [00:13] * [Nom]Alexis picks up the stuff Sam dropped and tosses them back on the tray
  6940. [00:13] <[Nom]Alexis> "Whoops, careful there."
  6941. [00:14] * [Dune]Sam 's voice starts to become distressed with the utter lack of assistance in the face of this very near peril.
  6942. [00:15] <[Dune]Sam> help, please!
  6943. [00:15] * [Dune]Sam lets one of the biscuits Alexis just placed back upon the tray tumble to the floor.
  6944. [00:16] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh...Oh, bring it to me, Sam, I'll help you set it down-
  6945. [00:16] * [Gtz]Mary holds out her arms awkwardly
  6946. [00:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, wait up, Sam. Let me get something."
  6947. [00:16] * [Nom]Alexis pulls out a small parcel from a particularly sensitive spot in the stack
  6948. [00:19] <[Dune]Sam> whuuaaah!
  6949. [00:20] * [Dune]Sam critically overbalances to the right and then to the left, the stack of materials upon her tray swaying back and forth threatening to rebel and fall.
  6950. [00:23] * [Dune]Sam loses a few pieces of silverware and another biscuit while fighting to control the chaos, but ultimately is unable to restore the weight to perfect equilibrium.
  6951. [00:24] * [Dune]Sam then half-stumbles, half-falls just outside the reach of Mary's low-held arms, some of the tray's contents colliding with Mary though miraculously not much is lost.
  6952. [00:25] <[Dune]Sam> ow!...
  6953. [00:25] <[Gtz]Mary> oof!...
  6954. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm?"
  6955. [00:25] * [Nom]Alexis looks over to see what is wrong, but nothing seems to be amiss, so she goes back to work
  6956. [00:25] * [Dune]Sam however manages to keep herself from an outright faceplant by hanging on to the edges of the tray, although she is still laying on the ground with skinned knees.
  6957. [00:26] * [Dune]Sam 's behind is also gratuitously viewable...well, behind her, due to her lying down, crashing fall, and especially short skirt.
  6958. [00:30] <[Gtz]Mary> Wow, what is all this? It sure is heavy...
  6959. [00:31] * [Dune]Sam lets go of the tray, falling wholly onto the floor now. From the jarring impact of the fall, and her lack of experience with such, she is stunned.
  6960. [00:33] * [Gtz]Mary turns to set it all on the counter, next to the stove. A few more nid-nads fall off of the heap of stuff.
  6961. [00:33] <[Dune]Sam> ah-ahh...
  6962. [00:33] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, are you okay?
  6963. [00:34] * [Dune]Sam is still recovering from having the air partially knocked out of her.
  6964. [00:34] <[Dune]Sam> kinda...
  6965. [00:35] * [Dune]Sam would roll over or sit up and rub her knees a little, but isn't yet capable after being winded.
  6966. [00:36] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary, are you done? We're good to go."
  6967. [00:36] * [Nom]Alexis has set up the trolley and is ready to race away
  6968. [00:37] * [Gtz]Mary slowly drifts open palms towards the voice until they make contact with Sam's face. Or her head, at least.
  6969. [00:37] * [Dune]Sam groans in displeasure after hearing Alexis's voice, the maid's complete apathy to her own plight vexing.
  6970. [00:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, what's the matter, dear? Poor girl... Let me help you up.
  6971. [00:39] * [Gtz]Mary finds one of Sam's arms, and uses herself as an anchor to allow Sam to pull herself off the ground
  6972. [00:39] <[Dune]Sam> mm, thank you...
  6973. [00:40] * [Dune]Sam tries to take Mary's assistance and drag herself up, but ultimately is incapable with that tray having effectively made her arms jelly. Following that strain, she's lucky to use them to resist gravity at all.
  6974. [00:41] * [Dune]Sam at most only manages to lean against Mary a tiny bit more, keeping her head just off the ground.
  6975. [00:43] <[Gtz]Mary> My Lord, Sam, are you ill?
  6976. [00:44] * [Dune]Sam finds herself still only able to squeeze select precious words out of her lungs to explain.
  6977. [00:44] <[Dune]Sam> heavy...tray.
  6978. [00:44] * [Gtz]Mary kneels lower, putting an arm around Sam's chest and carrying her back far enough to rest upright on her legs.
  6979. [00:45] * [Nom]Alexis stares quizically at the two maids
  6980. [00:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmm, you're awfully weak for an alien monster in disguise."
  6981. [00:46] * [Nom]Alexis frowns, and takes out her notepad again
  6982. [00:46] * [Gtz]Mary frowns as well.
  6983. [00:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "Probably...not...alien...monster...in...disguise..."
  6984. [00:46] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis! Get over here and help me help Sam up.
  6985. [00:47] * [Nom]Alexis frowns again
  6986. [00:47] <[Nom]Alexis> "Mary...has...been...lost...to...the...other...side..."
  6987. [00:47] * [Nom]Alexis helps Sam anyway
  6988. [00:48] * [Dune]Sam 's legs still barely support her, and she half-collapses against the counter anyway.
  6989. [00:49] * [Dune]Sam 's voice has recovered pretty well by this point however, and is not (wholly) afraid to express her displeasure of Alexis's (in)actions.
  6990. [00:50] <[Dune]Sam> Alexis...
  6991. [00:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Woah, there, up you go."
  6992. [00:51] * [Nom]Alexis holds Sam under her arms and lifts her onto her legs
  6993. [00:51] * [Dune]Sam only manages to stand fully now with Alexis's thorough assistance, but still speaks.
  6994. [00:52] <[Dune]Sam> Alexis, why didn't you help?
  6995. [00:52] * [Nom]Alexis blinks twice
  6996. [00:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Huh? Help who?"
  6997. [00:52] * [Gtz]Mary sighs once
  6998. [00:52] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm sorry, Sam. I should have went to fetch Alexis myself.
  6999. [00:54] * [Dune]Sam quickly addresses Mary's response, but indignantly continues speaking to Alexis.
  7000. [00:54] <[Dune]Sam> Why did you tell me to get that heavy of a tray, with no cart?
  7001. [00:55] * [Dune]Sam sags down a little in Alexis's arms, her miniskirt again failing to protect its area.
  7002. [00:55] * [Nom]Alexis scratches her head
  7003. [00:56] * [Nom]Alexis looks at Sam, looks at Mary, looks at Sam
  7004. [00:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Make two trips?"
  7005. ===
  7006. @@Meanwhile, in the medical room
  7007. ===
  7008. [23:32] * [PB]Teilya sighed as she pushed open the doors to the medical room. Her previous orders to 'look after' Hans still stands, so she had to make sure he's 'fine'. Ah well, let just get this over and done with...
  7009. [23:33] <[PB]Teilya> Stay quiet and this will be over quickly, then you can go back to doing whatever you do strapped down on a table.
  7010. [23:34] * [PB]Teilya said as she walked up to the table and pulled out some equipments.
  7011. [23:34] * [kiri]Hans is awake. He's lying still in his own bed, strapped. He's too quiet, somehow.
  7012. [23:35] <[kiri]Hans> Hey. Might I ask you something?
  7013. [23:35] <[PB]Teilya> Didn't I tell you to stay quiet.
  7014. [23:35] * [PB]Teilya said, typing away on a screen.
  7015. [23:35] <[kiri]Hans> sure is a bunch of unfriendly folks here.
  7016. [23:36] <[PB]Teilya> You provoked us first.
  7017. [23:36] <[kiri]Hans> .......Might I ask you something?
  7018. [23:36] * [kiri]Hans is still dead set on asking this question.
  7019. [23:37] <[PB]Teilya> Go ahead, if you don't mind me making mistakes.
  7020. [23:37] <[kiri]Hans> What kind of man is your master?
  7021. [23:37] <[kiri]Hans> I... want to know more about him.
  7022. [23:37] * [PB]Teilya blinked, and looked at Hans strangely.
  7023. [23:38] <[PB]Teilya> What kind of question is that? He's what you see and what you know. If you're that curious then ask him yourself when he comes around.
  7024. [23:38] <[kiri]Hans> he's not like I imagined.
  7025. [23:39] * [PB]Teilya frowned.
  7026. [23:39] <[kiri]Hans> Uncooperative, eh? Yeah. Fine. Sure. Do whatever you want.
  7027. [23:39] <[PB]Teilya> Nothing you ever imagined is correct, anyway.
  7028. [23:40] * [kiri]Hans mutter some insults under his breathe.
  7029. [23:40] * [PB]Teilya continued typing into the screen. A few new ones pops up, and she goes through the routine checks.
  7030. [23:40] <[PB]Teilya> I can hear that, you know.
  7031. [23:41] <[kiri]Hans> Good. 'cuz I kind of want you to hear, you stupid catgirl.
  7032. [23:41] <[kiri]Hans> Can't even answer a simple question.
  7033. [23:42] <[PB]Teilya> I don't want to have anything to do with you, and have no obligations to answer your mindless ramblings.
  7034. [23:42] <[kiri]Hans> Suit yourself.
  7035. [23:43] <[PB]Teilya> Tired of talking? Good for you, I only made two errors so far.
  7036. [23:44] <[kiri]Hans> Tired of talking TO YOU, to be precise.
  7037. [23:45] <[PB]Teilya> Must be a miracle for us to have the same thoughts right now.
  7038. [23:47] * [kiri]Hans snort.
  7039. [23:48] * [PB]Teilya pressed a button, and the screen dies down with a pop signifying that the solutions were complete.
  7040. [23:48] <[PB]Teilya> Now then, don't move around, not that you can, and it'll be over quickly.
  7041. [23:49] <[kiri]Hans> I can, but I choose not to.
  7042. [23:49] <[kiri]Hans> Gotta respect the host.
  7043. [23:49] * [PB]Teilya filled a needle with the solution, and injected the substance into Hans.
  7044. [23:49] * [kiri]Hans take it like a man.
  7045. [23:49] <[PB]Teilya> Yeah, sure, whatever. Have a nice day.
  7046. [23:50] * [PB]Teilya pulls the needle back out, slips it into a plastic bag and threw it away into a nearby waste disposal bucket.
  7047. [23:50] <[kiri]Hans> Yeah, sure, whatever. Thank you for your hard work.
  7048. [23:50] * [Pyg]Cerise knocks on the door to the infirmary before poking her head in and looking around.
  7049. [23:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Teilya?
  7050. [23:50] <[PB]Teilya> Good, bye.
  7051. [23:51] * [PB]Teilya turns around and sees Cerise.
  7052. [23:51] <[PB]Teilya> Oh hello Cerise, need anything?
  7053. [23:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> Just letting your know breakfast is almost ready.
  7054. [23:52] * [PB]Teilya leaves Hans behind and steps out of the med room.
  7055. [23:53] <[PB]Teilya> Ah right, thanks, I'm done here, so let's go then.
  7056. [23:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, okay.
  7057. [23:53] * [kiri]Hans just rest.
  7058. [23:54] * [PB]Teilya smiles brightly at Cerise, and starts walking down the corridor.
  7059. [23:54] * [Pyg]Cerise follows after Teilya.
  7060. [23:58] <[PB]Teilya> So...
  7061. [23:58] * [PB]Teilya starts after a bit of walking.
  7062. [23:59] <[PB]Teilya> Going well with Mary?
  7063. [00:08] <[GM]Ludwig> [Doesn't sound like it...]
  7064. [00:08] <[PB]Teilya> [Hmm...]
  7065. [00:10] * [Pyg]Cerise turns a little bashful at being asked.
  7066. [00:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> W-well, yeah...I guess...
  7067. [00:11] * [PB]Teilya smiles, seemingly sad for a moment, but then goes back to looking totally normal and cheerful.
  7068. [00:11] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm~ That's good nya~
  7069. [00:22] <[GM]Ludwig> [I dunno... I don't want to force anything on you.]
  7070. [00:23] <[PB]Teilya> [Then nothing]
  7071. [00:23] <[GM]Ludwig> [Gaatz has a good idea, just make small talk and see what comes of that. Not everything has to be super vital.]
  7072. [00:24] <[PB]Teilya> [Eh, but I'm socially inept and can't think of anything to say~]
  7073. [00:24] <[Gtz]Mary> [aren't you hot for Cerise too? feel her up or something]
  7074. [00:24] <[GM]Ludwig> ["How was patrol?]
  7075. [00:24] <[GM]Ludwig> ["What do you think of that new girl?"]
  7076. [00:24] <[GM]Ludwig> [Converse, dammit.]
  7077. [00:25] <[PB]Teilya> [:<]
  7078. [00:26] <[Gtz]Mary> [use your tail]
  7079. [00:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> Why do you ask?
  7080. [00:35] <[PB]Teilya> Just wondering.
  7081. [00:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...
  7082. [00:38] * [PB]Teilya smiles, the taps Cerise's forehead with her tail.
  7083. [00:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah!
  7084. [00:40] <[PB]Teilya> You're a bit skittish today, must be the lack of breakfast nya?
  7085. [00:42] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yeah, probably...
  7086. [00:43] * [Pyg]Cerise gently takes a hold of Teilya's tail while it's still close enough.
  7087. [00:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> That guy wasn't bothering you, was he?
  7088. [00:43] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm? Oh, no, we're just having a 'friendly' chat.
  7089. [00:47] <[GM]Ludwig> [You can reach the kitchen (#maidrpg) whenever.]
  7090. [00:48] <[PB]Teilya> [Sure]
  7091. [00:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> If he tries anything, let me know, okay?
  7092. [00:54] * [PB]Teilya smiles and nods.
  7093. [00:54] <[PB]Teilya> Okay, I know I can count on you.
  7094. ===
  7095. @@And now, back to the kitchen!
  7096. ===
  7097. [00:57] * [Pyg]Cerise enters the kitchen right behind Teilya.
  7098. [00:57] * [Gtz]Mary sighs twice
  7099. [00:57] * [Dune]Sam 's voice sounds a little angry now, though the majority of its source is frustration.
  7100. [00:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> We're back, Mary.
  7101. [00:58] <[Dune]Sam> You could have at least left me one, or told me where one is, or /something/!
  7102. [00:59] * [Dune]Sam grits her teeth and falls quiet as the new arrivals enter, not bothering to correct her posture (as he mind is otherwise occupied).
  7103. [01:00] <[Gtz]Mary> Alexis, please don't harass Sam any further. Sam, if you still have the energy, take a seat on the counter and we'll handle the rest of breakfast.
  7104. [01:00] * [Gtz]Mary addresses the new arrivals
  7105. [01:00] <[PB]Teilya> Um, what happened here?
  7106. [01:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Was it the spoons? It was the spoons, wasn't--ah, Cerise!"
  7107. [01:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Teilya! I--"
  7108. [01:01] * [Nom]Alexis realises she's still holding onto Sam
  7109. [01:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> Good morning, Miss Alexis.
  7110. [01:01] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, hey Cerise. Good morning, Teilya.
  7111. [01:01] <[Nom]Alexis> "Good morning...this isn't what it looks like."
  7112. [01:01] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh?
  7113. [01:02] <[PB]Teilya> Hello, Mary, and um...Alexis, what does it look like, then?
  7114. [01:02] * [Gtz]Mary pinches her lips together.
  7115. [01:02] * [Pyg]Cerise has a little smirk on her face.
  7116. [01:02] * [Dune]Sam drops to the floor without any assistance, crashing to it with a small thud.
  7117. [01:02] * [PB]Teilya looked a bit displeased.
  7118. [01:02] <[Gtz]Mary> We're having difficulties, you may say.
  7119. [01:02] <[Dune]Sam> ah!
  7120. [01:02] <[PB]Teilya> Uh huh.
  7121. [01:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "Er, it looks like...you know what, you should really ask Mary."
  7122. [01:03] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wha-?!
  7123. [01:03] * [Dune]Sam is genuinely angry, now.
  7124. [01:03] * [Nom]Alexis looks at Sam on the floor
  7125. [01:03] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, we lost her again."
  7126. [01:03] <[Dune]Sam> Why did you drop me?
  7127. [01:03] <[Gtz]Mary> Sam is... Sam? Alexis, what are you doing?
  7128. [01:04] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...Did we come in at a bad time?
  7129. [01:04] <[Nom]Alexis> "No, no, you came at a perfect time. Perfect time to see that nothing's going on. Yes."
  7130. [01:04] <[PB]Teilya> ...Should I make arrangements for new occupants in the medical room?
  7131. [01:04] <[Gtz]Mary> No, you didn't. Cerise, help Sam up. Teilya, get Alexis out of here before she causes more trouble.
  7132. [01:05] * [Dune]Sam glowers scornfully at Alexis, sitting on the floor.
  7133. [01:05] * [Pyg]Cerise makes her way to Sam and offers her a hand up.
  7134. [01:05] <[Nom]Alexis> "But I haven't even done anything yet! It was breakfast! Breakfast!"
  7135. [01:05] <[PB]Teilya> Alright, out you go.
  7136. [01:06] * [PB]Teilya starts pulling Alexis away from the scene.
  7137. [01:06] <[Nom]Alexis> "Noooo, I've been framed! I demand an appeal!"
  7138. [01:06] * [Gtz]Mary grits her teeth, trying to keep her temperance in order under the circumstances. I really should have made it clear to Alexis to stop bothering Sam...
  7139. [01:07] * [Nom]Alexis has been getting tossed out far too much lately
  7140. [01:08] <[PB]Teilya> Appeal rejected, now come on.
  7141. [01:09] * [Nom]Alexis spouts some nonsense about fair judicial process as she is lead out
  7142. [01:11] * [Dune]Sam 's throat remains tight a little as she continues to glower at Alexis, taking Cerise's hand only as a side note.
  7143. [01:11] * [Pyg]Cerise hoists Sam onto her feet.
  7144. [01:12] * [Gtz]Mary disdain starting to wash from her face, she addresses Sam with some genuine remorse:
  7145. [01:13] <[Gtz]Mary> Sam, are you all right?
  7146. [01:13] * [Dune]Sam ceases gritting her teeth as she goes to lean against the nearest counter.
  7147. [01:13] <[Dune]Sam> that hurt...
  7148. [01:14] * [Dune]Sam frowns, and is plainly still very much not happy with Alexis.
  7149. [01:18] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm sure she didn't mean anything bad...I think.
  7150. [01:18] * [Gtz]Mary feels really bad now. . o ( My lack of foresight has become very harmful... I need to work on that. )
  7151. [01:18] * [Pyg]Cerise gives Sam a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
  7152. [01:19] * [Dune]Sam sighs, and relaxes a little.
  7153. [01:20] <[Dune]Sam> Why is she mean to me, though? Or maybe she doesn't think about what she does? I know i'm still new here, but...
  7154. [01:21] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm sorry, Sam. Alexis can be a good person when she wants to be, but... I should have known better than to leave her alone with you.
  7155. [01:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Please don't hold a grudge over it. I'm sure she didn't mean for you to get hurt... are you hurt? You fell down a few times...
  7156. [01:24] * [Dune]Sam rubs her forehead a little.
  7157. [01:25] <[Dune]Sam> Maybe after breakfast i'll be able to walk well on my own, and a few bruises...
  7158. [01:27] <[Gtz]Mary> haaah... I really am sorry about this.
  7159. [01:27] * [Dune]Sam waves her hand dismissively.
  7160. [01:28] <[Dune]Sam> I just don't get her...
  7161. [01:28] <[Pyg]Cerise> None of us do, to be honest.
  7162. [01:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> Miss Alexis isn't a very open person. Master Ludwig seems to be the only person who actually knows her.
  7163. [01:30] <[Dune]Sam> ah, i see...
  7164. [01:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, Ludwig...
  7165. [01:31] * [Gtz]Mary has a cold feeling run over her.
  7166. [01:31] <[Gtz]Mary> ...has he been about, since yesterday?
  7167. [01:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...I don't know.
  7168. [01:32] * [Pyg]Cerise starting to get a little nervous herself.
  7169. [01:32] * [Dune]Sam cocks her head to the side.
  7170. [01:32] <[Dune]Sam> Is there any problem...?
  7171. [01:34] * [Gtz]Mary goes back to her potatoes, which are still warm, but long since lost their crispiness, and begins collecting them into a small plate.
  7172. [01:34] <[Gtz]Mary> mm...
  7173. [01:34] * [Dune]Sam figures that perhaps she shouldn't pry, and so lets the subject drop. (What could it be, though?)
  7174. [01:35] * [Gtz]Mary sighs yet again.
  7175. [01:36] <[Gtz]Mary> I.. guess I should go wake him up. Can you set the table for me, Cerise?
  7176. [01:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> Are you sure you'll be okay on your own?
  7177. [01:38] * [Gtz]Mary . o ( not really... )
  7178. [01:38] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Yes.
  7179. [01:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary...
  7180. [01:40] * [Pyg]Cerise 's voice seems to carry that tone of "Are you sure? Really sure?"
  7181. [01:41] <[Gtz]Mary> I'll be fine. And maybe I'll have a word with Alexis too, while I'm at it...
  7182. [01:41] * [Gtz]Mary begins to make her way out of the kitchen.
  7183. [01:43] * [Dune]Sam looks to Cerise, her curiosity resurfacing in her expression.
  7184. [01:43] * [Pyg]Cerise keeps an eye on Mary as she leaves the room.
  7185. [01:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> She ought to rely on people a little more...
  7186. [01:44] * [Pyg]Cerise sighs.
  7187. [01:46] * [Dune]Sam still is glancing with curiosity at Cerise.
  7188. [01:47] * [Pyg]Cerise turns to see Sam looking right at her.
  7189. [01:47] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, err, I guess I'll set the table. You still need to recover, right?
  7190. [01:49] * [Dune]Sam sighs, and leans off the counter to rely on her own feet.
  7191. [01:49] <[Dune]Sam> just don't give me anything too heavy...
  7192. [01:49] <[Dune]Sam> i can take silverware, maybe?
  7193. [01:50] <[Pyg]Cerise> If you're sure...All right.
  7194. [01:50] * [Pyg]Cerise begins setting all the necessary dishware on a pushcart.
  7195. [01:53] * [Dune]Sam starts taking small handfuls of forks and spoons and begins setting them although her steps are still a little shaky and her arms near-dead(tired).
  7196. [01:57] * [Pyg]Cerise makes her way to the dining area along with the cart and begins setting things down in their proper places.
  7197.  
  7198.  
  7199.  
  7200.  
  7201.  
  7202.  
  7203.  
  7204.  
  7205. @@---
  7206. @@=====
  7207. @@Session Sixteen
  7208. @@=====
  7209. @@---
  7210.  
  7211. July 4
  7212. [22:06] <[Gtz]Mary> [so yeah, let's kick some maid ass]
  7213. [22:07] <[Dune]Sam> [whoo~-er, i mean, yes, let's...]
  7214. [22:07] <[Gtz]Mary> [ROCK AND ROLL, BITCH! IT'S GOD DAMN INDEPENDENCE DAY]
  7215. [22:08] <[Gtz]Mary> [THERE'S ALIENS AND WILL SMITH AND SHIT]
  7216. [22:08] <[GM]Ludwig> [I COULDA BEEN AT A BARBE-- OH WAIT NEVERMIND]
  7217. [22:10] <[GM]Ludwig> [Might help the log better if I recap in here.]
  7218. [22:11] <[Dune]Sam> [yeah, that'd probably be a good idea.]
  7219. [22:11] <[GM]Ludwig> [Cerise and Sam are in the kitchen, finishing up breakfast. Teilya and Alexis are in the hallway outside, I guess. Mary's started off to wake up Ludwig. Hans is passed out in the Med Room, as usual.]
  7220. [22:12] <[PB]Teilya> [We won't be seeing Hans today, don't worry.]
  7221. [22:13] <[GM]Ludwig> [I guess we'll see what went on in the hallway, first. I'm kinda curious.]
  7222.  
  7223. ---
  7224. @@Scene One: Hallways, Ludwig's Room
  7225. ---
  7226.  
  7227. [22:14] * [Nom]Alexis is led out into the hall, still demanding her legal representation
  7228. [22:16] * [PB]Teilya ignores her protest and closes the kitchen door behind her.
  7229. [22:17] * [Nom]Alexis sniffles
  7230. [22:17] * [PB]Teilya then spins around and show Alexis her best friendly smile.
  7231. [22:17] <[PB]Teilya> So, mind telling me what this is about?
  7232. [22:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sam was bullying me."
  7233. [22:18] * [Nom]Alexis pulls out her handkerchief and blows her nose loudly
  7234. [22:19] * [PB]Teilya doesn't seem to be reacting at all.
  7235. [22:19] <[PB]Teilya> Oh?
  7236. [22:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "We were just setting up for breakfast but then she got all upset over the spoons and now she's cranky and everybody blames Alexis."
  7237. [22:20] * [Nom]Alexis sobs at the tragedy
  7238. [22:22] <[PB]Teilya> Is that so?
  7239. [22:23] * [PB]Teilya keeps on smiling.
  7240. [22:23] * [Nom]Alexis nods with her face in her handkerchief
  7241. [22:26] <[PB]Teilya> I see.
  7242. [22:27] <[PB]Teilya> Pity, really, I seem to have hearing problems lately, names just get mixed up all the time.
  7243. [22:28] * [PB]Teilya waves her tail near her ears for emphasis.
  7244. [22:29] * [Nom]Alexis looks up, eyes in tears
  7245. [22:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "You don't believe me, do you? Et tu, Teilya? Just like the rest of them?"
  7246. [22:30] <[PB]Teilya> Oh, no, I believe every single thing you say.
  7247. [22:30] * [PB]Teilya smiles.
  7248. [22:30] <[PB]Teilya> I just roll them through a salt shaker first.
  7249. [22:30] * [Nom]Alexis sniffs twice, and then...
  7250. [22:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master Ludwiiiiiiig!"
  7251. [22:32] * [Nom]Alexis blazes down the hall, wailing as she goes
  7252. [22:32] <[PB]Teilya> She's surely energetic today.
  7253. [22:34] <[GM]Ludwig> [Correspondingly, in or near the master's bedroom...]
  7254. [22:37] * [Gtz]Mary takes a deep breath, and draws close to Ludwig's room. She checks the door, making sure it isn't open, and knocks lightly with her knuckles.
  7255. [22:38] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't make a sound, except for snoring, which doesn't really count as a 'reply', per se.
  7256. [22:40] * [Gtz]Mary listens, and sighs. . o ( I suppose I could just bring him his breakfast today. So much trouble already... )
  7257. [22:43] * [Gtz]Mary turns about, intent on doing just that
  7258. [22:44] * [Gtz]Mary . o ( except maybe... well... hmm... I'll ask Cerise what she thinks. )
  7259. [22:44] <[Nom]Alexis> [Meanwhile, Doppler]
  7260. [22:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "--aaaasteeer Ludwiiiiiiiiig!"
  7261. [22:45] <[Gtz]Mary> ..Huh? uh oh...
  7262. [22:47] * [Gtz]Mary braces herself
  7263. [22:48] * [Nom]Alexis comes racing down the hall...and totally overshoots, passing Mary and disappearing in the opposite direction
  7264. [22:50] * [GM]Ludwig fumbles open the door a few seconds later, bleary-eyed and blinking.
  7265. [22:50] <[GM]Ludwig> ...'da hell w'zat?
  7266. [22:50] * [Gtz]Mary stands still for a good two seconds, before letting out a sigh of relief and turning around.
  7267. [22:52] * [GM]Ludwig peers down the hall both ways, double takes on Mary and seems to brighten up... somewhat.
  7268. [22:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh... hello. What can I do for yo--
  7269. [22:53] * [GM]Ludwig yawns mid-sentence.
  7270. [22:53] <[GM]Ludwig> --for you?
  7271. [22:54] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Maaaaasteeeeeeeeerrrrrr!"
  7272. [22:55] * [Gtz]Mary looks confused for a moment. Why wasn't anyone plowed into comically? -oh wait, here it comes!...
  7273. [22:55] * [Nom]Alexis Express return, this time aimed.
  7274. [22:55] <[GM]Ludwig> ...wuh?
  7275. [22:56] * [GM]Ludwig looks back the other way. Somebody calling for him...?
  7276. [22:57] * [Nom]Alexis is a missile locked onto Ludwig, 20 metres and closing
  7277. [22:57] * [GM]Ludwig is still too asleep to realize he should be getting out of the way right now. Hey, is that Alexis?
  7278. [22:59] * [Nom]Alexis makes impact with ground zero, 0% error ratio
  7279. [22:59] <[GM]Ludwig> GuooooofAAWUUGHH
  7280. [23:00] * [GM]Ludwig is pushed backwards a good number of feet, which don't touch the ground until the rest of him does, in a heap, with an inconsolable (?) Alexis on the top of it all.
  7281. [23:02] * [Gtz]Mary winces. . o ( I probably should have tried to warn him, but... well, at least he's awake. )
  7282. [23:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master Ludwig! Everybody is bullying meeeee!"
  7283. [23:03] * [Gtz]Mary shuffles to the door, trying to look apologetic.
  7284. [23:04] * [GM]Ludwig flails around desperately enough to push Alexis a sufficient distance away to clamber to his feet.
  7285. [23:04] <[GM]Ludwig> Okay, so... what, now? Everybody's what?
  7286. [23:04] * [Nom]Alexis sits in a mess on the ground, sniffing
  7287. [23:04] <[Gtz]Mary> hah... Are you alright, master?
  7288. [23:05] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh! Mary. Yes, I think so.
  7289. [23:06] * [Nom]Alexis gives Mary the Glare (with added Tears)
  7290. [23:07] * [GM]Ludwig checks himself for injuries, realizing in the process that he looks a right mess. Should probably do something about that.
  7291. [23:08] * [Gtz]Mary pulls at the top of her blouse, feeling a little humid under the collar.
  7292. [23:08] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, good. Feeling up for some breakfast?
  7293. [23:08] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah, yes... um, hold that thought.
  7294. [23:09] * [GM]Ludwig turns back to Alexis.
  7295. [23:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Now, what seems to be the problem?
  7296. [23:09] * [Nom]Alexis turns the Glare on Ludwig, who has fraternised with the Enemy
  7297. [23:10] * [GM]Ludwig takes an involuntary step backwards.
  7298. [23:14] <[Nom]Alexis> "You're so insensitive, master."
  7299. [23:14] * [Nom]Alexis sniffs again
  7300. [23:17] * [GM]Ludwig steps forwards so that his feet are even again.
  7301. [23:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Look, just tell me what happened.
  7302. [23:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "No no, it's all right to be mean to Alexis, because she doesn't have feelings."
  7303. [23:19] * [Nom]Alexis pouts
  7304. [23:20] * [GM]Ludwig sighs. 'Why do I have to deal with this first thing in the morning?'
  7305. [23:20] * [Gtz]Mary isn't really sure where to put her foot in this mud puddle.
  7306. [23:20] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm not trying to be mean to you, Alexis, I just... wish you'd spit it out, to be honest.
  7307. [23:21] <[Nom]Alexis> "See, Mary? Men are such brutes."
  7308. [23:22] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis...
  7309. [23:23] * [GM]Ludwig bites his tongue before he can go any further with that and pinches his temple.
  7310. [23:23] <[Nom]Alexis> "First Sam, and now you. It's Pick On Alexis Day at the fortress."
  7311. [23:24] * [Nom]Alexis makes use of her by now ragged handkerchief
  7312. [23:24] * [Gtz]Mary jumps in that puddle wholeheartedly.
  7313. [23:24] <[Gtz]Mary> We had a bit of an issue this morning between Sam and Alexis.
  7314. [23:25] * [GM]Ludwig opens his eyes. Aha, revelation!
  7315. [23:25] * [Gtz]Mary is only in Genesis and is ready to Exodus
  7316. [23:25] <[GM]Ludwig> What sort of "issue"?
  7317. [23:28] * [Gtz]Mary sighs and crosses her arms, thinking of where to start...
  7318. [23:30] <[Gtz]Mary> I... think it's only the product of misunderstanding. From what I've reckoned, Sam had trouble helping Alexis, and fell... It may have been an accident, but I believe Sam blames Alexis over it.
  7319. [23:37] <[GM]Ludwig> I see...
  7320. [23:38] * [Gtz]Mary claps her hands together.
  7321. [23:38] <[Gtz]Mary> Anyway! I think that can wait until after breakfast.
  7322. [23:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Sure, everybody believes Mary and nobody believes Alexis."
  7323. [23:38] <[GM]Ludwig> It'll have to.
  7324. [23:39] <[GM]Ludwig> Alexis, save it. You can make your case later, with Sam.
  7325. [23:40] <[GM]Ludwig> For now, just go help set the table or something.
  7326. [23:41] * [Gtz]Mary ignores Alexis's comment, though she entertains the idea of aggravating her over it later.
  7327. [23:41] <[Gtz]Mary> Ah, I think everything should be ready. It's just waiting on you, Master.
  7328. [23:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh. Well... in that case, Alexis, go and... um, wait.
  7329. [23:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Tell them I'm getting dressed and will be down shortly.
  7330. [23:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Okay.
  7331. [23:44] <[GM]Ludwig> No, Mary, not you.
  7332. [23:45] * [Gtz]Mary visibly gives off a nervous twitch. . o ( Doesn't look like I'll be able to pretend nothing happened... I guess it's better to get it over with sooner than later. )
  7333. [23:48] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Right.
  7334. [23:54] * [Nom]Alexis hmphs, but goes anyway
  7335. [23:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary... uh, hm.
  7336. [00:00] * [GM]Ludwig takes her hand - only to lead her! - to a dressing screen standing against one wall.
  7337. [00:00] <[Gtz]Mary> ?
  7338. [00:00] <[GM]Ludwig> It might actually be easier if you stood back here while I change. Okay?
  7339. [00:01] * [Gtz]Mary is led, before mentally going 'oh', and stifling a laugh.
  7340. [00:01] <[Gtz]Mary> hmhm... Okay.
  7341. [00:02] * [GM]Ludwig leaves her there and goes about changing out of his pajamas and into everyday clothes.
  7342. [00:03] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, I don't suppose I have to tell you what this is to be about.
  7343. [00:05] * [Gtz]Mary threads her fingers and bows her head, giving it a silent shake.
  7344. [00:07] <[GM]Ludwig> Is there anything else you want to say on the matter?
  7345. [00:09] * [Gtz]Mary sighs dejectedly.
  7346. [00:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig... I don't know what to say. Part of me wants to go through with you, since you're the head of the fortress and I'm supposed to help you in any I can, and... I love you. But... I just can't deny Cerise. I love her, too.
  7347. [00:16] <[GM]Ludwig> What a...
  7348. [00:17] * [GM]Ludwig stops himself, holds back, considers, decides against it, and continues with his next breath.
  7349. [00:17] <[GM]Ludwig> ...very safe answer.
  7350. [00:18] * [Gtz]Mary bows deeply.
  7351. [00:18] <[Gtz]Mary> I know. I can't just come out and make a choice, can I.
  7352. [00:19] <[GM]Ludwig> No. You are, literally, too kind.
  7353. [00:20] * [Gtz]Mary sighs, and almost smiles, but she can't manage to choke it out of her throat.
  7354. [00:20] * [Gtz]Mary sits down, legs crossed, in the floor.
  7355. [00:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Holding back a knife only slows the wound.
  7356. [00:22] <[GM]Ludwig> And with... that in mind...
  7357. [00:22] * [GM]Ludwig grimaces as he pulls a shirt over his head.
  7358. [00:23] <[GM]Ludwig> Since you cannot seem to make a choice, I will.
  7359. [00:23] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig...
  7360. [00:23] <[GM]Ludwig> I r... I release you from your promise.
  7361. [00:25] <[GM]Ludwig> I wish the two of you a long and happy life together.
  7362. [00:25] <[GM]Ludwig> A... long life.
  7363. [00:26] * [Gtz]Mary seems stuck. She's in the middle of speaking, but she can't move.
  7364. [00:33] <[GM]Ludwig> Listen...
  7365. [00:34] <[GM]Ludwig> This is serious.
  7366. [00:34] <[Gtz]Mary> I KNOW!
  7367. [00:35] * [Gtz]Mary shouts, and her knuckles ricochet off the floor.
  7368. [00:35] * [GM]Ludwig steps around the screen, now fully dressed, to look at Mary's face. He wasn't expecting to be shouted at, though.
  7369. [00:35] * [Gtz]Mary takes a few deep breaths, not minding the hand.
  7370. [00:36] <[Gtz]Mary> I'm... I'm... I'm sorry. I just...
  7371. [00:37] <[Gtz]Mary> ...I'm just so unfair to you.
  7372. [00:39] * [GM]Ludwig doesn't feel it's at all untoward of him to embrace her in this situation, so he kneels down and does so.
  7373. [00:39] <[GM]Ludwig> It's all right.
  7374. [00:40] * [Gtz]Mary clutches Ludwig tightly.
  7375. [00:41] <[Gtz]Mary> No... No, it's not. You don't know how important you are, Ludwig...
  7376. [00:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Maybe not... but I've got a pretty good idea.
  7377. [00:44] <[GM]Ludwig> This isn't... it's not like we're letting go completely.
  7378. [00:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Is it?
  7379. [00:47] <[Gtz]Mary> No... But... But what about you? I mean, you know we're all here for you, but you... You need to have someone just for you.
  7380. [00:48] * [Gtz]Mary manages to squeak out that "you" word every time.
  7381. [00:49] <[GM]Ludwig> I...?
  7382. [00:50] * [GM]Ludwig lets Mary go and slouches gradually back onto the floor in front of her, staring at it with an expression he'd be glad she couldn't see if he spared it any thought.
  7383. [00:51] <[GM]Ludwig> I suppose I'll have to deal with that, if the time comes.
  7384. [00:55] * [Gtz]Mary calms herself, some of the emotion leaving her voice. She runs her fingers through his hair a few times, browsing her hand around his cheek.
  7385. [00:55] <[Gtz]Mary> ...how do you do it...
  7386. [00:59] <[Gtz]Mary> how... How do you wake up every day, like this? How can you be so responsible for everyone, like it's nothing? I mean... You wanted to marry me, right? Where do you will to say it's okay the next day when I tell you someone else loves me?
  7387. [00:56] <[GM]Ludwig> Do?
  7388. [00:59] <[GM]Ludwig> I... just do.
  7389. [00:59] <[GM]Ludwig> I have to.
  7390. [01:00] * [Gtz]Mary chokes.
  7391. [01:00] <[GM]Ludwig> Next days aren't so easy to come by anymore as they used to be.
  7392. [01:01] <[GM]Ludwig> Any moment, we might all of us suddenly just run out.
  7393. [01:03] <[GM]Ludwig> At such a premium, we can no longer afford to carry misery along with us.
  7394. [01:05] <[Gtz]Mary> Y-y-y-... You know... I've always thought there was something special a, about you, something that no one else had... And... I think it's that. That indomitable courage of yours. Master... The world hasn't ended yet. A book I read tells me things about the end of the world, but I don't think it's through yet. I thi- no. I know you're the one who will... bring us back. Or even to something we've never been. Your destiny... it's greater than any I can possibly imagine.
  7395. [01:05] <[GM]Ludwig> No.
  7396. [01:07] <[Gtz]Mary> No? Look around you, Ludwig. And what do you see?
  7397. [01:09] <[GM]Ludwig> People needed someplace to rally, a banner and a leader... I just happened to be there.
  7398. [01:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Hhm.
  7399. [01:10] * [Gtz]Mary brushes the back of his head.
  7400. [01:10] <[Gtz]Mary> Well, I don't believe in coincidences.
  7401. [01:10] <[GM]Ludwig> I didn't do anything to create this, I was too frightened to even think.
  7402. [01:11] <[Gtz]Mary> We all are... But you still have the ability to saddle up and do what's necessary anyway. I would snap if I had to wear your shoes.
  7403. [01:14] * [GM]Ludwig laughs nervously.
  7404. [01:15] <[GM]Ludwig> Yeah, I'm afraid you would.
  7405. [01:15] <[GM]Ludwig> This isn't always a nice job. Rarely, in fact.
  7406. [01:18] <[GM]Ludwig> Honestly... I don't deserve you.
  7407. [01:19] * [GM]Ludwig puts a pre-emptive finger over Mary's lips.
  7408. [01:19] <[GM]Ludwig> Don't. It's only the truth.
  7409. [01:19] * [Gtz]Mary starts, but stops.
  7410. [01:20] * [Gtz]Mary moves the finger, and speaks softly.
  7411. [01:22] <[Gtz]Mary> You deserve... everything. If it weren't for you, I... well, it's safe to say I wouldn't be alive right now. I owe you my life. You're too easy on me, Ludwig. You're the one who's too kind for their own good.
  7412. [01:24] <[GM]Ludwig> ...we'll see.
  7413. [01:25] * [GM]Ludwig takes Mary's hands and stands, pulling her up with him.
  7414. [01:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Right now, breakfast is getting cold. Come on.
  7415. [01:26] <[Gtz]Mary> Wait, Master...
  7416. [01:29] <[GM]Ludwig> What is it?
  7417. [01:29] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Thanks. Thanks for being like that. Too nice for your own good.
  7418. [01:29] <[Gtz]Mary> It does a lot of good for everyone else.
  7419. [01:30] <[Gtz]Mary> More than you can imagine, I bet.
  7420. [01:30] * [GM]Ludwig can't look at her for a moment. His face seems to be stuck in a perpetual wince.
  7421. [01:31] <[GM]Ludwig> Co... come on.
  7422.  
  7423. ---
  7424. @@Scene Two: Kitchen, Dining Room
  7425. ---
  7426.  
  7427. [22:28] * [Dune]Sam finishes arraying the silverware across the table, then leaning against a wall again to remain standing.
  7428. [22:30] * [Pyg]Cerise finishes her work as well, noticing Sam.
  7429. [22:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> You can sit on a chair if you really need to, you know.
  7430. [22:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> And it's still your first day, you shouldn't push yourself so hard.
  7431. [22:32] * [Dune]Sam wants to keep on helping, but knows that she'll break herself down if she keeps on going at this rate.
  7432. [22:32] <[Dune]Sam> thanks...
  7433. [22:33] * [Dune]Sam shuffles over to one of the chairs at the table and plops down into it.
  7434. [22:36] * [Pyg]Cerise stands around, unsure of what else to do. Maybe wait until the master finally comes down to eat...Wait, should I be here? It will be awkward won't it? Oh no...What do I do? What do I do?
  7435. [22:37] * [Pyg]Cerise 's brows furrow as she struggles to think, placing her hard on the lower half of her face.
  7436. [22:40] * [Dune]Sam notices that Cerise is apparently... troubled? She half-opens her mouth to speak, but then restrains herself for a moment.
  7437. [22:40] * [Dune]Sam . o O ( ...Should I, really? I'm new here, but with the kindness they've shown me... )
  7438. [22:40] * [Dune]Sam speaks up, a little sheepishly.
  7439. [22:41] <[Dune]Sam> um, is everything alright...?
  7440. [22:42] * [Pyg]Cerise realizes that she isn't alone in the room upon hearing Sam's voice. She quickly recollects herself and gives a Sam a somewhat reassuring smile, though her eyebrows are still somewhat furrowed.
  7441. [22:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> Kind of...I think.
  7442. [22:45] * [Dune]Sam feels concerned for Cerise, a little.
  7443. [22:46] * [Dune]Sam spends another short moment gathering herself before continuing.
  7444. [22:46] <[Dune]Sam> ...If i may ask... What is it?
  7445. [22:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hmm...
  7446. [22:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'd...rather not.
  7447. [22:53] * [Pyg]Cerise ends up taking a seat as well.
  7448. [22:53] <[Pyg]Cerise> Not because it's you...
  7449. [22:54] * [Dune]Sam listens intently.
  7450. [22:57] <[Pyg]Cerise> It's better if I didn't add to your current problems. I appreciate the concern though.
  7451. [22:58] * [Dune]Sam ponders for a short moment and then speaks (a little) more confidently.
  7452. [22:59] <[Dune]Sam> Well...
  7453. [23:03] <[Dune]Sam> You and Mary and Teilya have listened to my own problems, helping with them also, so it's only fair if I try to help you out too.
  7454. [23:03] * [Dune]Sam in her shyness seems a little unsure.
  7455. [23:03] <[Dune]Sam> ...right?
  7456. [23:09] * [Pyg]Cerise approaches the sitting Sam and places her hands on her shoulders.
  7457. [23:09] <[Pyg]Cerise> Thank you. Really.
  7458. [23:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> But this is something I've decided to deal with myself.
  7459. [23:10] <[Pyg]Cerise> In any case, if what I think might happen will happen, you'll find out soon enough.
  7460. [23:11] * [Pyg]Cerise steps back, away from Sam, pulling a chair out for herself to sit down on.
  7461. [23:11] * [Dune]Sam is surprised just a little, wondering just what she meant by that last statement...
  7462. [23:12] <[Dune]Sam> eh? ah, alright...
  7463. [23:12] * [Dune]Sam still respects Cerise's wish here, regardless.
  7464. [23:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> You're a kind girl. That's hard to come by with the way things are now, especially outside.
  7465. [23:13] * [Pyg]Cerise smiles a little at Sam.
  7466. [23:13] <[Pyg]Cerise> Good thing we brought you here when we did.
  7467. [23:18] * [Dune]Sam turns her head away coyly, scratching it as she speaks.
  7468. [23:18] <[Dune]Sam> um, thanks.
  7469. [23:24] * [Pyg]Cerise looks up at a clock on the wall.
  7470. [23:24] <[Pyg]Cerise> I guess we'll just wait for Master Ludwig...
  7471. [23:25] * [Dune]Sam makes a small nod.
  7472. [23:25] <[Dune]Sam> that works...
  7473. [23:30] * [Dune]Sam kicks her legs idly for a tiny bit before her legs remind her not to. Promptly, she stops.
  7474. [23:44] <[GM]Ludwig> [I guess that's it for here for now?]
  7475. [23:45] <[Dune]Sam> [Probably, yeah. I'm done.]
  7476. [23:56] * [Nom]Alexis raps twice on the kitchen door
  7477. [23:59] * [Dune]Sam looks up, and then to Cerise.
  7478. [23:59] <[Dune]Sam> I'll get that, if you wish.
  7479. [23:59] * [Nom]Alexis speaks from behind the door
  7480. [00:02] <[Nom]Alexis> "The master is coming down for breakfast. He shall be here shortly."
  7481. [00:05] * [Dune]Sam . o O ( ! It's Alexis... )
  7482. [00:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> You should rest.
  7483. [00:06] * [Pyg]Cerise gets up to open the door.
  7484. [00:06] * [Dune]Sam thinks for a moment to have Ceri- ah, she already took care of it.
  7485. [00:07] <[Dune]Sam> ...thank you, again.
  7486. [00:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> Hello, Miss Alexis.
  7487. [00:19] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, Cerise."
  7488. [00:19] * [Nom]Alexis has tried her best to clean herself up and look professional
  7489. [00:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Are we on the ball? The master is just getting dressed now."
  7490. [00:20] * [Dune]Sam in the meantime just looks at Alexis from her chair.
  7491. [00:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> Err, yeah, we're just waiting around.
  7492. [00:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "Let's get to setting up then. I'm sure the master will be quite famished by the time he's done."
  7493. [00:23] <[Pyg]Cerise> What else is there to do? All the silverware and plates are already set.
  7494. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Er..."
  7495. [00:24] * [Dune]Sam nods from a little way across the room, though still remaining silent.
  7496. [00:24] * [Nom]Alexis is losing the business facade
  7497. [00:24] <[Nom]Alexis> "Stand around, I guess. As maids do."
  7498. [00:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Oh, and make the coffee double strength. It's one of those days."
  7499. [00:35] * [Dune]Sam whispers to herself.
  7500. [00:35] <[Dune]Sam> it sort of is...
  7501. [00:39] * [Pyg]Cerise doesn't like the sound of that, but nods and steps back into the kitchen to brew the coffee.
  7502. [00:46] * [Dune]Sam twiddles her thumbs, waiting and trying to not be all that noticeable.
  7503. [01:18] * [PB]Teilya walks back into the kitchen after some unknown amount of time.
  7504. [01:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> Ah, there you are, Miss Teilya!
  7505. [01:19] * [Nom]Alexis wonders how she could have beaten Teilya back to the kitchen
  7506. [01:19] * [Dune]Sam perks up a little, seeing Teilya enter the room.
  7507. [01:19] <[Pyg]Cerise> Looks like we're just waiting on Master Ludwig and Mary now.
  7508. [01:20] <[Dune]Sam> Hello again.
  7509. [01:20] <[PB]Teilya> Nya-ha~, hello Cerise, hello Sam~
  7510. [01:20] <[Pyg]Cerise> Really, the food's going to get cold at this rate.
  7511. [01:21] * [Dune]Sam muses to herself again. o O ( I wonder what's taking them... )
  7512. [01:21] <[PB]Teilya> Oh, don't worry about them, I'm sure they'll be fine~
  7513. [01:21] <[PB]Teilya> I cleaned up all those beetle spies after all~
  7514. [01:22] * [Nom]Alexis Alexis doesn't get a hello, but at least she has coffee
  7515. [01:23] * [Dune]Sam gives Teilya a curious glance.
  7516. [01:23] <[Dune]Sam> eh?
  7517. [01:24] <[PB]Teilya> Oh, don't worry about it, it's just the usual pest control~
  7518. [01:25] <[Dune]Sam> alright, then...
  7519. [01:27] * [Nom]Alexis wonders is there is a proof system for caffeine
  7520. [01:29] * [Dune]Sam doesn't question further, trusting Teilya's response.
  7521. [01:30] * [Nom]Alexis wonder if Teilya ever needs to be de-liced
  7522. [01:31] <[Nom]Alexis> "...They're taking awfully long."
  7523. [01:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "...And the master is a healthy young man, and Mary's all alone..."
  7524. [01:33] * [Dune]Sam blinks several times.
  7525. [01:33] * [Dune]Sam then shakes her head to clear it.
  7526. [01:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "We should trust the master, of course, but Mary's especially vulnerable and the master's awfully drowsy in the morning. Who knows what kind of accidents may happen when he's changing?"
  7527. [01:35] * [Nom]Alexis openly ponders
  7528. [01:36] * [PB]Teilya sighs, and pats Alexis on the shoulder.
  7529. [01:37] <[PB]Teilya> Don't fret, I'm sure the truth will as always be the opposite of what you ponder, it's always the same.
  7530. [01:38] <[Nom]Alexis> "Hmph. I don't know what you did with the real Teilya, but I won't fall bait to your bullying."
  7531. [01:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "If you won't at least show care for our collegues then I have nothing else to say."
  7532. [01:39] <[PB]Teilya> Your word wounds me as usual, Alexis~
  7533. [01:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "But I'm sure there's nothing to worry about anyway, is there, Cerise? Let's just go wait discretely in the dining room like dutiful servants that we are"
  7534. [01:41] * [Pyg]Cerise merely sits still, coffee mug in hand, trying to not listen to Alexis.
  7535. [01:41] * [Dune]Sam similarly tries to ignore Alexis, though she has not taken a cup of coffee.
  7536. [01:42] * [Nom]Alexis sighs at the general despondancy
  7537. [01:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, workplace relations. I'll never get the hang of this."
  7538. [01:43] * [Pyg]Cerise looks up at the clock. I know she doesn't mean that, but it seems to sting more than usual...
  7539. [01:43] * [Pyg]Cerise gets up.
  7540. [01:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> She's right...We should wait in the dining hall.
  7541. [01:44] * [PB]Teilya sighs, shrugs, and make her way to the dining hall, gently pulling Sam behind her as she goes.
  7542. [01:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's the spirit. Buck up, Cerise. And at least show a bit of faith."
  7543. [01:45] * [Pyg]Cerise ignores that last comment as she heads out the door.
  7544. [01:45] * [Dune]Sam gladly follows Teilya, a little happier with her accompaniment.
  7545. [01:45] <[Nom]Alexis> "...I must be getting too old old for the kids."
  7546. [01:46] * [Nom]Alexis watches the others go, and closes the kitchen door behind them
  7547.  
  7548. ---
  7549. @@Scene Three: Breakfast, Briefing
  7550. ---
  7551.  
  7552. [01:32] <[GM]Ludwig> [Ludwig & Mary head back down to the kitchen / dining room.]
  7553. [01:34] <[GM]Ludwig> [...as soon as Alexis is done spreading her unique brand of slander, that is.]
  7554. [01:34] <[GM]Ludwig> [in b4]
  7555. [01:47] <[GM]Ludwig> [So, in the dining room, then.]
  7556. [01:49] <[Nom]Alexis> [Maids stand around with hot towels ready to seat the master?]
  7557. [01:49] <[Nom]Alexis> [Or do we bum around and chew gum?]
  7558. [01:50] <[Dune]Sam> [a combination of the two, i presume.]
  7559. [01:51] * [GM]Ludwig enters, dressed plainly, light and loose, pants and shirt.
  7560. [01:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Ah... everyone's here already. Sorry to keep you waiting.
  7561. [01:51] * [Gtz]Mary also enters, rather nunly and slowly bleeding from the fist
  7562. [01:52] * [Pyg]Cerise becomes slightly more nervous with Ludwig around until her eyes land on Mary and...Blood?
  7563. [01:52] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary? What happened?
  7564. [01:53] * [Nom]Alexis was about to open her mouth and stop Cerise, but is slow on the trigger. There goes discretion.
  7565. [01:53] * [Gtz]Mary was in her own little world, until-
  7566. [01:53] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh?
  7567. [01:53] * [GM]Ludwig looks at Mary, surprised by Cerise's question, and notices her wounded knuckles for the first time.
  7568. [01:53] <[GM]Ludwig> Mary, you're bleeding?!
  7569. [01:54] <[Gtz]Mary> ...
  7570. [01:54] <[Gtz]Mary> Huh?
  7571. [01:54] <[GM]Ludwig> Your hand!
  7572. [01:54] * [Gtz]Mary runs her fingers over both hands, until she feels one of them is wet. Well gee, how did that happen?
  7573. [01:54] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Oh.
  7574. [01:55] * [Dune]Sam , having entered the room just behind Teilya, also finds this blood worrying. o O ( ...and she doesn't even feel it? )
  7575. [01:55] <[Dune]Sam> Mary, are you alright...?
  7576. [01:55] * [Nom]Alexis shuffles next to Ludwig
  7577. [01:56] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Master?"
  7578. [01:56] * [PB]Teilya already produced some bandaids and did a quick patch up of Mary's hand.
  7579. [01:57] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't know! Well, I guess she kind of punched the floor, once...
  7580. [01:57] <[PB]Teilya> You should be more careful next time you punch a concrete wall, Mary.
  7581. [01:57] * [Pyg]Cerise almost breaks into a brisk walk to get to Mary but anchors herself.
  7582. [01:57] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, thank you... really, it's no problem...
  7583. [01:57] <[Nom]Alexis> "...You're very astute today, master."
  7584. [01:58] * [Dune]Sam still looks a little concerned.
  7585. [01:58] <[PB]Teilya> Still, be more careful.
  7586. [01:58] * [GM]Ludwig notices Cerise's hesitation and catches her eye. He motions his head towards Mary, and nods for good measure.
  7587. [02:00] <[Gtz]Mary> um... Right. Sorry... Let's get seated.
  7588. [02:01] * [Dune]Sam 's legs wobble a little as she goes to a chair, though she still stands.
  7589. [02:02] * [GM]Ludwig seats himself at the head of the table.
  7590. [02:03] * [Dune]Sam goes ahead and sits at a chair in the middle of one of the sides, quiet.
  7591. [02:04] * [Gtz]Mary just sits in the nearest seat she can find, unless one of them has her name on it or something
  7592. [02:04] * [Pyg]Cerise takes a chair at the far end of the table. Gotta' keep away from the Master as best as I can.
  7593. [02:05] * [Nom]Alexis wonder why Cerise is sitting so far away as she sits somewhere close to the master
  7594. [02:10] * [PB]Teilya pulls out a perfectly clean and white napkin, helped Ludwig putting it on, then sits down on the last chair with her tail swinging merrily around.
  7595. [02:11] * [GM]Ludwig grimaces but sits still through Teilya's mothering.
  7596. [02:11] <[GM]Ludwig> Well, then... Mary, do you want to lead us in grace?
  7597. [02:12] * [Gtz]Mary nods, bows, and joins hands.
  7598. [02:12] * [Dune]Sam follows suit, to be polite.
  7599. [02:15] * [Nom]Alexis wonders if Mary spent that time preparing a speech
  7600. [02:17] <[Gtz]Mary> Dear heavenly Father, we thank you for this food, dear Lord. May it nourish our bodies. Lord, please bless Sam, bring her together with us, help her find herself, and help her find You. Please God, help us all find a way, to ourselves, together, and to You. In Jesus' holy name I pray...
  7601. [02:17] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Amen.
  7602. [02:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Amen.
  7603. [02:18] <[PB]Teilya> Amen~
  7604. [02:18] * [Dune]Sam blinks several times in surprise, although she manages to continue.
  7605. [02:18] <[Dune]Sam> ah, Amen...
  7606. [02:18] <[Nom]Alexis> "You forgot to pray for the apocalypse, dear."
  7607. [02:19] * [Pyg]Cerise says her "Amen" quick and quietly.
  7608. [02:20] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, I didn't forget anything.
  7609. [02:21] * [Gtz]Mary begins eating
  7610. [02:21] <[GM]Ludwig> Dig in, everyone.
  7611. [02:21] * [Dune]Sam does so.
  7612. [02:22] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Wouldn't want to find a way to Him that quickly."
  7613. [02:22] * [Nom]Alexis says it under her breath though, and starts eating
  7614. [02:22] * [PB]Teilya eats quietly.
  7615. [02:22] * [Pyg]Cerise also begins to feed.
  7616. [02:26] * [Nom]Alexis feels that the atmosphere is awfully awkward
  7617. [02:27] * [Dune]Sam remains silent partially because she detects an odd atmosphere, but also partially due to her inherent shyness.
  7618. [02:30] <[GM]Ludwig> Cerise?
  7619. [02:30] * [Nom]Alexis Alexis can't stand silence. Awkward awkward awkward.
  7620. [02:31] * [Pyg]Cerise flinches a little at the sound of the voice that just spoke her name and looks up from her meal.
  7621. [02:31] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes, Master Ludwig?
  7622. [02:32] <[GM]Ludwig> Teilya?
  7623. [02:36] <[PB]Teilya> Hm?
  7624. [02:36] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm going to need the two of you to go out again today, as soon as possible.
  7625. [02:37] * [Nom]Alexis stops eating
  7626. [02:37] <[PB]Teilya> Supply ran out again? I thought we saved up for a few months?
  7627. [02:37] * [PB]Teilya is starting to get used to going out...is she changing?
  7628. [02:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh...Okay.
  7629. [02:38] <[GM]Ludwig> No, this isn't like last time. This could be dangerous.
  7630. [02:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Does that mean last time wasn't dangerous, master?"
  7631. [02:39] <[Pyg]Cerise> Can't possibly more dangerous the last times two times we've gone out, Master.
  7632. [02:39] <[GM]Ludwig> I need you to get closer to that cloud and try to find out for certain what's causing it.
  7633. [02:39] <[PB]Teilya> I was sure the last few times are quite life endangering too...
  7634. [02:39] * [Pyg]Cerise begins taking in her food at a faster pace.
  7635. [02:40] * [PB]Teilya quickly finishes up her food.
  7636. [02:40] * [Gtz]Mary grimaces, and keeps her fork plucked into a piece of food.
  7637. [02:40] * [Dune]Sam listens with some concern.
  7638. [02:41] <[PB]Teilya> Well, recon should be easy...is what I would say...
  7639. [02:41] <[PB]Teilya> Master, would you mind if I take heavier gears?
  7640. [02:42] <[GM]Ludwig> Heavier gears?
  7641. [02:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> I...think she means she wants to be better prepared.
  7642. [02:44] <[Pyg]Cerise> We were lucky last time, since Miss Alexis was with us.
  7643. [02:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Oh. I see. That's a good idea, then.
  7644. [02:44] * [Nom]Alexis hides behind a bread roll
  7645. [02:45] * [PB]Teilya smiles brightly, now they should be fine against the random hordes of beetles and aggressive scavengers.
  7646. [02:45] <[GM]Ludwig> Just remember, you're not going out there to pick a fight. In fact, I even dare to hope you won't be noticed at all.
  7647. [02:46] <[PB]Teilya> You know just by saying that we're going to get it a fight, right?
  7648. [02:47] * [PB]Teilya whispers to no one in particular.
  7649. [02:48] <[GM]Ludwig> Actually, the worst of it is, I can't send you through the Travel Room this time.
  7650. [02:49] <[GM]Ludwig> They'd surely notice it, so close.
  7651. [02:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Master, question."
  7652. [02:50] * [Nom]Alexis raises her hand
  7653. [02:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Vehicles would have the same problem, so-- er. Yes, Alexis?
  7654. [02:50] * [Pyg]Cerise thinks as she chews her food. Hmm, a long hike, huh?
  7655. [02:50] <[Nom]Alexis> "Who are 'they'?"
  7656. [02:51] <[GM]Ludwig> Beetles, Alexis. Who else?
  7657. [02:51] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  7658. [02:52] * [PB]Teilya thinks for a while, no magical teleport and no vehicles? Well, this might be tricky...
  7659. [02:52] * [Dune]Sam listens to this briefing, again with a concerned look on her face. ( They've been through this before though, right? and they're here... )
  7660. [02:52] <[GM]Ludwig> I don't know that it is them, or I wouldn't send them out to look. But I can't take a chance on hoping that it isn't, either.
  7661. [02:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "Why can't we ever be attacked by ruggedly handsome middle-aged men?"
  7662. [02:54] * [Pyg]Cerise finishes the last of her meal, and slides her chair back, standing up from her seat.
  7663. [02:54] <[GM]Ludwig> Yeah, well. Anyway, it all boils down to, you're going to have to go out there on foot.
  7664. [02:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> Anything else you wish to tell us, Master, or should I excuse myself to make preparations?
  7665. [02:56] <[GM]Ludwig> I'm sure I don't need to tell you, but I'm going to anyway: don't get any closer than is absolutely necessary. Once you've confirmed the cause, get back at once.
  7666. [02:57] <[GM]Ludwig> No heroics.
  7667. [02:57] * [Gtz]Mary nods slowly.
  7668. [02:59] <[PB]Teilya> Got it, I'll make for preparations, then.
  7669. [02:59] <[Nom]Alexis> "And to think that we could have just spent more on the telescope. But no, 'it's a waste of resources' he said, 'lime green is not my colour' he said."
  7670. [02:59] * [PB]Teilya nods, gets up, and removes herself from the dining hall for her assigned duty.
  7671. [02:59] <[GM]Ludwig> Good luck, both of you, and Godspeed.
  7672. [03:00] * [Dune]Sam wonders if potentially she can see them off or something, since she couldn't bid them well now...
  7673. [03:00] <[Nom]Alexis> "Bye bye, dearies. The rest of us will just sit around and entertain ourselves with gripping games of tiddlywinks."
  7674. [03:02] * [Pyg]Cerise takes a quick glance at Mary before turning around and leaving the dining hall to get ready.
  7675. [03:04] * [Gtz]Mary finishes what's left of her food(not much in the first place) and turns to Ludwig.
  7676. [03:04] <[Gtz]Mary> Do you mind if I... well, there's something I want to say to her before she goes.
  7677. [03:06] <[GM]Ludwig> Of course.
  7678. [03:06] * [Dune]Sam finishes her own meal at that moment, and readies herself to ask...now.
  7679. [03:06] <[Dune]Sam> ...Mary?
  7680. [03:06] * [Gtz]Mary stands up, placing her chair back.
  7681. [03:06] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Thanks. -hm?
  7682. [03:07] <[Dune]Sam> ah, may i come with you, maybe?
  7683. [03:07] <[Gtz]Mary> Of course. Come on.
  7684. [03:08] <[Nom]Alexis> "And I...I guess I'm stuck with the dishes."
  7685. [03:08] * [Nom]Alexis visibly droops
  7686. [03:08] * [Gtz]Mary starts off, but hollers back:
  7687. [03:09] * [Dune]Sam smiles a bit, and hops out of her chair to move up to Mary's side.
  7688. [03:09] <[GM]Ludwig> Buck up, Alexis, you'll have help.
  7689. [03:09] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, don't worry about them! We'll get them once we get back, alright?
  7690. [03:09] * [Gtz]Mary scurries off as quickly as a blind maid may scurry
  7691. [03:10] * [Dune]Sam accompanies her, scurrying at a similar speed.
  7692. [03:10] * [Nom]Alexis starts rolling up her sleeves
  7693. [03:10] * [GM]Ludwig starts gathering up plates and such.
  7694. [03:10] <[Nom]Alexis> "They'll be culturing exotic bacteria before she's finished gushing, master. I better make a start with of it."
  7695. [03:11] * [Nom]Alexis sees Ludwig helping, and is scandalised
  7696. [03:12] <[Nom]Alexis> "No master, put those down! The dishes are the province of the maids! I can't let you soil yourself at a sink."
  7697. [03:15] <[GM]Ludwig> So, rail against me. I'm still gonna do it.
  7698. [03:16] <[Nom]Alexis> "Master Beetlehoven in heaven would smite me should I let his son touch detergent. Drop the plates, master, and nobody will get hurt."
  7699. [03:17] * [Nom]Alexis slowly circles towards Ludwig with both hands raised in caution
  7700. [03:17] <[GM]Ludwig> Fine, then. I'll dry.
  7701. [03:18] * [Nom]Alexis is in a dilemma over whether she should just take this concession
  7702. [03:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Okay, dry. But if the grease starts to make you queezy you'll have to leave the kitchen immediately."
  7703. [03:20] * [GM]Ludwig faces no dilemma, and carries his armful of dishes past Alexis into the kitchen.
  7704. [03:20] <[GM]Ludwig> You'll be the first to know.
  7705. [03:20] <[Nom]Alexis> "Ah, master! Those are still dirty! You'll get it on your clothes! I spent weeks with that cuff! Nooo!"
  7706. [03:21] * [Nom]Alexis picks up her own stack and hurries carefully (as only maids can) after Ludwig
  7707. [03:23] * [GM]Ludwig starts stacking the dishes next to the sink.
  7708. [03:23] * [Nom]Alexis is right behind Ludwig
  7709. [03:24] <[GM]Ludwig> Listen to you. Don't you ever worry that you might be over-protecting me?
  7710. [03:24] * [Nom]Alexis looks quizzical
  7711. [03:25] <[Nom]Alexis> "Over-protect you, master? Next you'll be asking if I do too much of that respiration thing."
  7712. [03:26] * [Nom]Alexis tries to surreptitiously grab Ludwig's workload for herself
  7713. [03:26] <[GM]Ludwig> Yeah, I didn't think so.
  7714. [03:27] <[GM]Ludwig> I'd better let you fill the sinks. Wouldn't do for the master to have dishpan hands.
  7715. [03:29] <[Nom]Alexis> "That's better, master. I'm glad we have an understanding."
  7716. [03:29] * [GM]Ludwig can't help but laugh.
  7717. [03:29] * [Nom]Alexis turns on both taps
  7718. [03:32] <[Nom]Alexis> "On the flip side, master, you don't worry about yourself enough. You don't use your head quite enough for such a smart guy, begging your pardons."
  7719. [03:34] <[GM]Ludwig> Like, how do you mean?
  7720. [03:35] <[Nom]Alexis> "For example, going to see a dangerous prisoner alone."
  7721. [03:35] * [Nom]Alexis has the 'Oh yes, I heard about that one' look
  7722. [03:36] <[GM]Ludwig> I knew I could take care of myself, if it came to that.
  7723. [03:37] * [Nom]Alexis sighs
  7724. [03:37] <[GM]Ludwig> And, to be honest, I was hoping he'd put up a struggle... I had some major frustrations to work out that day.
  7725. [03:37] <[Nom]Alexis> "...Okay, maybe not such a smart guy."
  7726. [03:38] <[GM]Ludwig> Hey, now, I'm only human.
  7727. [03:39] <[Nom]Alexis> "Problematic, isn't it? Teilya said she found you passed out in the medical room."
  7728. [03:40] <[GM]Ludwig> Hah, is that all? She's got a modest streak, then.
  7729. [03:42] <[Nom]Alexis> "...I checked up on you myself afterwards, master. I'd rather the master doesn't try stunts like that again, but who am I to say?"
  7730. [03:43] <[GM]Ludwig> Since when has being "who you are to say" even given you pause?
  7731. [03:44] <[Nom]Alexis> "It wouldn't do if your servants do not at least pretend to respect your judgement, would it?"
  7732. [03:44] <[GM]Ludwig> Quite so, quite so. Proper feudal spirit, and all that.
  7733. [03:46] <[Nom]Alexis> "On that note, master, the Beetlehovens would be the laughingstock of the magocracy should they find you spending the fine morning hours with the dishes. Provided they're not all dead."
  7734. [03:50] <[GM]Ludwig> Who, the Beetleovens, or the magocracy?
  7735. [03:52] <[Nom]Alexis> "For shame, master, don't say things like that. And I meant the latter."
  7736.  
  7737. ---
  7738. @@Scene Four: Armory, Departure
  7739. ---
  7740.  
  7741. [03:14] * [Pyg]Cerise stands around in the armory staring at a crate filled with boxes of ammunition. She's debating with herself how much ammo she should bring.
  7742. [03:15] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise? Hey Cerise, are you still there?
  7743. [03:16] * [Pyg]Cerise looks at the sound of the familiar voice calling her.
  7744. [03:16] <[Pyg]Cerise> I'm in here Mary.
  7745. [03:16] <[Dune]Sam> ...Teilya, are you in here too?
  7746. [03:17] * [Gtz]Mary follows the sounds of Cerise
  7747. [03:17] * [Dune]Sam asks as she follows Mary.
  7748. [03:18] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm?
  7749. [03:18] * [PB]Teilya 's voice seems quite far away.
  7750. [03:19] * [Dune]Sam turns to Mary for a moment.
  7751. [03:19] <[Dune]Sam> ah, if you don't mind...
  7752. [03:21] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, certainly, sweetie. I need a moment myself.
  7753. [03:21] * [Dune]Sam smiles slightly.
  7754. [03:21] <[Dune]Sam> thanks.
  7755. [03:21] * [Gtz]Mary nods, then finds her way into the room Cerise echo'd out of.
  7756. [03:22] * [Dune]Sam then hurries off in the direction she heard Teilya's voice from, her miniskirt moving as it does.
  7757. -=-
  7758. Sam & Teilya
  7759. -=-
  7760. [03:24] * [Dune]Sam calls out again, trying to sound out where Teilya is.
  7761. [03:24] <[Dune]Sam> Teilya?
  7762. [03:25] * [PB]Teilya was stashing a few rockets when Sam approached.
  7763. [03:25] <[PB]Teilya> Yes, do you need something, Sam?
  7764. [03:26] <[Dune]Sam> ah...
  7765. [03:26] * [Dune]Sam sees Teilya and walks over to her.
  7766. [03:26] <[Dune]Sam> not really, but...
  7767. [03:27] <[PB]Teilya> Hmm? Yes?
  7768. [03:27] <[Dune]Sam> I... wanted to see you off, i guess.
  7769. [03:29] * [PB]Teilya smiles and nod in thanks, her tail brushing against Sam's face to emphasise the point.
  7770. [03:29] <[PB]Teilya> We'll be fine, don't worry.
  7771. [03:31] * [Dune]Sam winks upon the tail's touch, but smiles.
  7772. [03:31] <[Dune]Sam> alright.
  7773. [03:32] * [PB]Teilya smiles again, and packs in another ring of steel cables.
  7774. [03:34] * [Dune]Sam becomes a little quiet again.
  7775. [03:34] <[Dune]Sam> um, still be careful, though...
  7776. [03:35] * [PB]Teilya nods once more as she continues packing.
  7777. [03:36] <[PB]Teilya> Don't worry, this time we're going out fully prepared.
  7778. [03:36] * [PB]Teilya turns around and looks straight at Sam.
  7779. [03:37] <[PB]Teilya> We'll come back in one piece, after all, you are all waiting for us to come back, here.
  7780. [03:39] * [Dune]Sam pauses for a moment, and then responds.
  7781. [03:39] <[Dune]Sam> ah, yeah...
  7782. [03:40] * [Dune]Sam scratches her head, unsure of fully how to take the comment.
  7783. [03:40] * [PB]Teilya pulls Sam into a warm hug, ruffling her hair.
  7784. [03:40] <[PB]Teilya> See, we'll just go out, scout for a bit, and come back. Nothing will happen, just a nice picnic out.
  7785. [03:41] <[PB]Teilya> So don't worry about it, we'll definitely come back.
  7786. [03:42] * [Dune]Sam is caught by surprise and so flinches upon the onset of the hug, but quickly relaxes.
  7787. [03:43] <[Dune]Sam> ah-
  7788. [03:44] * [Dune]Sam returns the hug, lightly.
  7789. [03:44] <[Dune]Sam> ...please do...
  7790. [03:45] <[PB]Teilya> Roger.
  7791. [03:45] * [PB]Teilya then breaks the hug, and gesture towards the exit.
  7792. [03:46] <[PB]Teilya> Now, rest well and wait for the good news, okay?
  7793. [03:46] * [Dune]Sam nods.
  7794. [03:47] <[Dune]Sam> ...yeah, i'll do that.
  7795. [03:49] * [PB]Teilya smiles gently and ruffles Sam's hair one last time before returning to gearing up.
  7796. [03:50] * [Dune]Sam smiles softly as she takes a few steps back towards the door.
  7797. [03:51] <[Dune]Sam> um, i'll see you, then...
  7798. [03:52] <[PB]Teilya> Right, see you soon, make some soup for me when I get back, will you?
  7799. [03:53] * [PB]Teilya smiles brightly and waves as Sam prepares to leave.
  7800. [03:53] * [Dune]Sam can't help but smile as she waves back and departs.
  7801. [03:54] <[Dune]Sam> I'll have it hot and waiting!
  7802. [03:56] <[PB]Teilya> I'll look forward to it~
  7803. [03:58] * [Dune]Sam turns back once more to smile back at Teilya from down the hallway but stops and blushes slighly, as she remembers her shyness.
  7804. [03:58] * [Dune]Sam waves one last time before hurrying around the corner and disappearing.
  7805. -=-
  7806. Mary & Cerise
  7807. -=-
  7808. [03:21] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary?
  7809. [03:22] * [Pyg]Cerise calls out to make sure Mary's still there.
  7810. [03:22] <[Gtz]Mary> Cerise?
  7811. [03:22] * [Gtz]Mary steps right in.
  7812. [03:23] * [Pyg]Cerise walks over to Mary as soon as she's within sight.
  7813. [03:23] * [Gtz]Mary gives Cerise a great hug and kisses her cheek.
  7814. [03:26] * [Pyg]Cerise returns Mary's embrace, giggling from the kiss she receives on her cheek.
  7815. [03:28] * [Gtz]Mary just shifts back and forth in the embrace, leaning her head against Cerise's shoulder.
  7816. [03:29] <[Pyg]Cerise> Did you...need something?
  7817. [03:29] * [Gtz]Mary smiles.
  7818. [03:29] <[Gtz]Mary> Yeah. But let me tell you something first.
  7819. [03:30] <[Pyg]Cerise> Wh-what is it?
  7820. [03:31] <[Gtz]Mary> Ludwig talked to me today, and he said... he wants us to be happy together. I don't know where he gets the heart, but...
  7821. [03:32] * [Pyg]Cerise is a little surprised at hearing the news.
  7822. [03:32] <[Pyg]Cerise> A-are you sure?
  7823. [03:34] <[Gtz]Mary> That's what he told me.
  7824. [03:35] <[Gtz]Mary> He's yet to lead me astray... I feel really bad about it. But it looks like there isn't any hard feelings between any of us, so that's good, isn't it?
  7825. [03:36] <[Pyg]Cerise> Yes...yes, that's a relief.
  7826. [03:36] * [Pyg]Cerise gives Mary a squeeze, happy about this development.
  7827. [03:37] * [Gtz]Mary looks down, a little sullen.
  7828. [03:37] <[Pyg]Cerise> Huh, wh-what's wrong?
  7829. [03:38] <[Gtz]Mary> ...it's nothing.
  7830. [03:38] <[Pyg]Cerise> Mary...
  7831. [03:38] * [Pyg]Cerise sounds a little more stern.
  7832. [03:38] * [Gtz]Mary looks up, and manages an earnest smile.
  7833. [03:39] <[Gtz]Mary> We'll talk about that later. You're about to head out again, and I got something else to give you...
  7834. [03:41] <[Gtz]Mary> It's something that you can keep, but you still have to give it back when you return. For real, this time.
  7835. [03:41] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh...
  7836. [03:42] * [Pyg]Cerise is suddenly reminded of the cross hanging around her neck.
  7837. [03:43] <[Gtz]Mary> Can you guess what it is?
  7838. [03:43] <[Pyg]Cerise> Not really, no.
  7839. [03:44] * [Gtz]Mary twists her lips into a funny kind of smile.
  7840. [03:44] <[Gtz]Mary> Aw, come on. It can't be that hard.
  7841. [03:45] <[Pyg]Cerise> Easy for you to say, you already know what it is.
  7842. [03:46] * [Gtz]Mary fakes exasperation, and gives a similar sigh.
  7843. [03:46] <[Gtz]Mary> All right, fine... close your eyes and wait here a second.
  7844. [03:48] <[Pyg]Cerise> ...All right.
  7845. [03:48] * [Pyg]Cerise shuts her eyes.
  7846. [03:49] * [Gtz]Mary slowly backs away, as if she's going to go out the door, but then quickly steps back into place, grabs Cerise, and pulls her into a deep kiss.
  7847. [03:50] * [Pyg]Cerise makes a little sound, surprised by Mary's sudden kiss.
  7848. [03:54] * [Gtz]Mary stays in the kiss for a long while, but breaks it and hangs around on Cerise for a little bit, with her arms wrapped around her shoulders. It's getting less and less weird, now, kissing her...
  7849. [03:55] <[Pyg]Cerise> You're...pretty good at that, Mary.
  7850. [03:56] <[Gtz]Mary> Hmm? At what?
  7851. [03:56] * [Pyg]Cerise feels the heat intensifying on her face.
  7852. [03:56] <[Pyg]Cerise> You know...
  7853. [03:58] <[Pyg]Cerise> Oh, nevermind. I really should start getting ready.
  7854. [04:00] * [Gtz]Mary lets go, a little reluctantly.
  7855. [04:01] <[Gtz]Mary> ...Alright. You be really careful, okay? If anything happens, you just get out of there.
  7856. [04:05] * [Pyg]Cerise takes Mary's unbandaged hand, and smiles, despite Mary's blindness.
  7857. [04:06] <[Pyg]Cerise> I don't plan on dying yet, don't worry.
  7858. [04:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Don't forget to listen! When I first got used to being blind, I was amazed by all the little things I missed before I lost my sight. You don't just hear things, your really gotta listen. I should teach you how sometime...
  7859. [04:06] <[Gtz]Mary> Oh, what am I talking about? Just... Do your best, Cerise. You know better than I.
  7860. [04:07] * [Gtz]Mary grins.
  7861. [04:07] <[Gtz]Mary> And don't forget to bring that back. Got it?
  7862. [04:07] * [Pyg]Cerise feels her face flushing again.
  7863. [04:07] <[Pyg]Cerise> Y-yeah, I will.
  7864.  
  7865.  
  7866.  
  7867.  
  7868. @@Unfinished
  7869.  
  7870.  
  7871. [01:02] <[GM]Teilya> [So, anyway]
  7872. [01:05] <[GM]Teilya> [Cerise and Teilya hike out towards the dust cloud]
  7873. [01:09] <[GM]Teilya> [An abandoned highway intersects with and seems to roughtly follow their path, so they make their way along it. The cloud swirls in the not-so-distant distance.]
  7874. [01:10] * [PYG]Cerise takes a sip of water from the canteen she brought along.
  7875. [01:10] <[PYG]Cerise> How much farther do you think, Miss Teilya?
  7876. [01:13] <[GM]Teilya> No idea...
  7877. [01:14] * [GM]Teilya brings up one hand to shade her eyes and tries to focus on the horizon.
  7878. [01:15] <[GM]Teilya> There's some buildings up ahead, but I can't tell if that's where the cloud starts or not.
  7879. [01:18] <[PYG]Cerise> We should pick up the pace. Maybe even get up on those buildings and see if they can give us a better view.
  7880. [01:34] <[GM]Teilya> [By quickening your steps, you reach the outlying buildings of the town in about fifteen minutes. From closer up, it's apparent that: 1) the 'town' is somewhat larger than you'd expected; and 2) the cloud is coming from some point beyond it, rather than inside its limits.]
  7881. [01:38] * [PYG]Cerise looks around for something she can use as a vantage point.
  7882. [01:44] <[GM]Teilya> [Most of the buildings around here seem to be about the same height, three or four stories up, probably apartments.]
  7883. [01:49] * [GM]Teilya nya~s thoughtfully.
  7884. [01:51] <[PYG]Cerise> Let's head up, we'll get a better view.
  7885. [01:52] * [PYG]Cerise starts toward the tallest building she can find.
  7886. [01:52] <[GM]Teilya> Hang on.
  7887. [01:55] * [GM]Teilya reaches into one pocket and brings out a small two-way radio: just a speaker on the face and a button on one side.
  7888. [01:56] <[GM]Teilya> Here, you take this one.
  7889. [01:56] * [GM]Teilya fetches its mate from the same pocket.
  7890. [01:57] <[GM]Teilya> I can't see as far as your scope can, so I'll stay down here and poke around a little.
  7891. [01:59] * [PYG]Cerise takes the radio.
  7892. [02:00] <[PYG]Cerise> All right. You call for me if anything happens, all right?
  7893. [02:00] <[GM]Teilya> Of course. You, too.
  7894. [02:02] * [PYG]Cerise 's concerned gaze lingers on Teilya before she finally turns and jogs for the building she was going to use to get a better look.
  7895. [02:08] <[GM]Teilya> [Nothing remains to impede your upwards progress. Even the doors leading into and out of the central stairwell have gone missing somehow.]
  7896. [02:19] <[GM]Teilya> [From the roof, you find you still can't see the bottom of the cloud for the taller buildings further inside the city. But you can see enough in the rising portion through your rifle:]
  7897. [02:23] <[GM]Teilya> [You couldn't distinguish it as smoke or dust from a distance because it's actually made up of both mixing together. Large shapes make moving shadows within, while smaller shapes make slow circuits and patterns around it. Beetles. Even more of them than you saw at the underground lab.]
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