The Escapist Avatar Adventure: An Open RP (Now Re-Opened!)

[bluecrimson]

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Beef Bowl Store: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYXupyFb3A8]

"Okay, that's very good and all, but we really have to get going now. We've got things to see, people to do- gah, it's supposed to be the other way around!" Ella was hoping to break the talk that seemed to have ruined the moods of Teri, but hopefully that humorous slip would help things. In any case, she stared Ryan down since she knew that Teri probably wasn't comfortable with such a forward approach.

It certainly seemed to help Devon a bit, because she stood up with the half-full bowl of noodles and spoke up as well. [color=00c863]"Yeah, Teri... maybe we could head to that other place we heard about? I'm sure Cadol'd love it. Wouldn't you, little bro?[/color]

She also responded to Cadolbolg's question mentally as she placed the tip on the table. [color=00c863]Okay, Cadol... I don't really know what that 'being myself' means any more, but I can answer the second question. Basically, the broken connection gives Brother and Angie the freedom to be who they will no matter what Teri says. And yes, Som, I think it was something in our coffee. Don't know what, but it sure did taste good~"[/color]

The odd thing was that Devon hadn't quite known who she was talking about when she'd said Brother to Cadolbolg... had it been Ton-Ton or Caim?

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia - The Anti-Shadow Weapon, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
Mood Music [http://tindeck.com/listen/blsl]

Melethia nodded to Fuuka's response, really beginning to feel the injuries now that the temporary burst of vitality was fading off. "It's a machine, so it won't have any issues in the bag. I can promise you that it won't be moving with those shattered joints." However, she knew that she'd just have to tough the injuries for now; the bullets certainly hurt, but she'd come closer to death more than a few times prior.

With that in mind, she dryly spoke after Jenny inquired to Jake's body. "We're getting him out of here. Wanderer, if you aren't getting him, I'll toss him in with the robot. At least in death, he'll be on top of that thing." It was clear that her main focus was on getting out of there quickly instead of taking care of her own condition..

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY8JNUwSYqs]

After the fight finished, Slindis moved to Narukami while slashing her sleeve with her Evoker. [color=c200]"Joanne, this man needs aid."[/color] her Persona responded in kind, placing warm hands on the gray-haired Persona user to rapidly heal him with a Lay on Hands.

The summons was rather brief, though, and Yu was reassured by Slindis as her healing finished its work.[color=c200]"Let me know if you need more aid, but it should be more than fine to walk on for now."[/color] The Drow's statements were true, as Narukami wasn't fully healed but yet more than well enough to not use his blade for a crutch. The completion of that treatment meant that Slindis could now focus more on the panicking Ton-Ton and the fatigued David.

[color=c200]"Ton-Ton, it's just as David said. Unlike your... [sub]Brother? no, sister's the correct pronoun now...[/sub] sister, Caim can take a good deal more than that. He'll make it out. Maybe not without some injuries, but nothing near life-threatening. It's alright for you to be concerned, but keep reason in mind here. If you're truly so shaken, though, I'll be sure to keep an eye out for any places he might be."[/color] After her best attempt at reassuring the stricken Tonberry, Slindis helped David get on his feet.

[color=c200]"That was some fine work, David. I'm sure I speak for everyone here when I say what you did sealed the battle."[/color]

 

[bluerocker]

Port Island Station - Rafflesia: Garm, Rugal,
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugwFWZq5R9M]

Garm was very much glad he hadn't been noticed during Rugal's recent carjacking, but he made haste in following after the Car, trying to stick to the Shadows as he did so, [color=356D60]"Okay, distinct change in plans on your Father's part. He's going after a Mr. Skin? If I heard that conversation right, he's talked to Skin before."[/color]

[color=0E59E4]"Don't hurt yourself, Garm. And remember, don't be seen."[/color]

[color=356D60]"He won't see me. I know where he's going to. I've been following him from the start, and so far, he's only been to the Police and the Club. He got information out of that Tanaka guy at the police place, so I'm guessing he's going to the Club. I'm gonna take the way I went before; since it was walking places instead of car places, he shouldn't see me. However, I don't know if that means I'll get there first."[/color]

((Feel free to post about Rugal getting there first. The club will be like how he left it last time; prepping up.))

Iwadatoi Station - Strip Mall - Mitsuru's Car: Akane, Deadshot, Mitsuru
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pr5RMY5FqY]

Mitsuru was about to comment on the situation, and then paused as her phone began to ring. Giving an apologetic expression, she picked up the phone and her brow furrowed before she answered back, [color=955555]"I'm on it."[/color] and hung up before typing some more in her phone (most likely to start getting the message out), [color=955555]"Looks like we have a lead, aside from your aforementioned catch. I don't know what Bernstein picked up from Tanaka, but he seems to have some sort of lead about a Mr. Skin. From what I'm seeing, he's been arrested for possession of paraphernalia, acquitted of charges... Yes, where was I? Right, what you two told me. I've written down the information on this phone. If you wish to leave the site for the day, I'm fine with that. I need to start heading a police operation, so I'll have my men chauffeur you back to the Rising Dawn if you so choose; and I'll let you know what happens to that man you brought in when we get more information on him. Good day."[/color]

And as quickly as they were promptly shown out of the car containing Mitsuru began to speed off. In the meantime, a ginger haired man approached the two and gave a light cough, "Ahem. Excuse me, officers? Care to explain to this ignorant bystader as to why the police are running around like chickens with their heads cut off? Given the current situation with Pedestrian traffic, I'm afraid I'm going to miss visiting hours for the hospital, and I REALLY need to go see my sick aunt before she passes..."

(same ginger dude from the beef bowl store, if you've read that part.)

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Beef Bowl Store: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TYXupyFb3A8]

Teri gave a whispered, [color=0E59E4]"Sorry"[/color] to Som as he continued to sneeze up a storm, feeling bad for having unintentionally set of someone's allergies. However, what she did not expect was for Ryan to grab her hands, "couple's style" and gave his grand deceleration of friendship for his fellow Author. Teri gave a weak smile, seeing that Ryan's words were kind ones, at least, (almost reminiscent of Jake's speeches a long time ago during the Angel Wars), but pulled herself out of the hand holding with a hint of a grimace on her face, [color=0E59E4]"Eh... I appreciate the gesture, Ryan, really, I do; but I'd appreciate it more if that whole hand thing didn't happen again. I'm not really this touchy feely, even with friends..."[/color]

After slipping out of the Dragonoid's grip, she stood up, and began to follow Ella with Devon and Cadolbolg, [color=0E59E4]Ella is right. We've more to do than just sit around in this shop. As for your question, Ms. Kalastryn, I'm afraid it's not really one that can be answered in a public place, if catch my drift. Stick around with us a bit more and it should be answered soon enough."[/color]

Cadolbolg took up roost on Devon's shoulder again, and answered back, "Oh... Like what Author Mark did to me then... I should tell Father about this soon. Perhaps he'll ease up on Friend Teri if he knew....

As for your question, Devon, that's easy! Just keep being who you are now! Me and Ton Ton like you for being you! I'm here to help if you need it, Devon. But we should go and have some more fun, and try some new stuff too! All this mental flip flopping tires me out."

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Wild Duck Burger: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmRQUuqtJas]

Spoiler: Images are large

Store Front

Interior

Coming into Wild Duck Burger wasn't particularly difficult, even with the pedestrian traffic being re routed for unexplained reasons. Upon coming in, the group found that true to what the man with the ginger hair said, the place was jammed packed full of people. Teri took it upon herself to claim a table for their group, and handed off her card to Ella, asking for a Beefy Supreme while the rest of the group went to get their meals.

However, upon standing in line, the varying members began to notice something somewhat odd. It was a Japanese summer outside. Quite a few people seemed to be wearing sweaters or wool hats in this place. Not to mention, something looked kinda funny about the eyes... Was there some kind of winter convention going on in this place?

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia - The Anti-Shadow Weapon, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Wd6buEQvnc]

Whatever the party's plans were, Fuuka spoke over their minds again again, [color=5F8B7F]"Oh, thank goodness, she's not dead... As I said before, your exit is to the East. I cannot repeat how sorry I am that this all happened. Really..."[/color]

((Just write yourselves out of the zone as necessary.

*shakes magic 8 ball*))

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY8JNUwSYqs]

In light of David, Constance and Slindis' attempts to calm the Tonberry down, Ton Ton took a deep breath to calm himself down, and gave a little nod before sniffling again, [color=15650D]"You're right... But, I was just really scared, because the last time I had seen anything like that before, the Dream Daemons of my world dragged me into the universe that we usually occupy. I was worried Caim got pulled under too.... So, are we going to wait for him and Ms. Angelus? I would personally like to go looking for them, but I can't force anyone to help me.."[/color]

Fuuka spoke up over their minds again, adding, [color=5F8B7F]"I can sense they're somewhere in this Shadow Zone, but it's incredibly unclear as to where exactly it is...

As for an exit, I can sense another of those on this floor. I would not advise taking the generator with you though. If you do, Caim and Angelus could be lost to us in this pocket of Shadow. However, I can bring you back to this floor specifically with the device that warps you out, so there is that."[/color]

Spoiler: Meanwhile...

Shadow Zone: ???: Angelus
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwCfaO_9pNs]

Angelus gave the gold another thought, and wondered quietly to herself how she'd get the dragon to blow her fire over her bars, before beginning to shake the bars, calling out, "Caim, get over this way! I've an idea!"

The Knight gave a nod, and made his way for the treasure pile with the weapons, giving a few rolls here and there to keep away from the fire balls; and then realized something for himself. He could call his Persona here, couldn't he? Perhaps that could help keep the Shadow of Angelus distracted. Before he could reach for his Evoker, a card [http://static1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120720032847/megamitensei/images/f/f8/TowerCard.jpg] descended in front of his face, to which the warrior slashed at with his blade, and a light surrounded the warrior-

((Found this by happy accident, it's a Caim version of these [https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XM4PT_sOpH4/TXGgS1FEYCI/AAAAAAAAAEw/ydgMBwAj4JA/s1600/p3arcanacutinsmq9_2.jpg], which [http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lwraikMoAR1qzk4cro3_500.gif] appeared [http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m1azh1oMyU1qd0gyko1_500.gif] in game when summoning the Persona))

before a bearded, robed figure [http://imgur.com/IMUDyc4] appeared. Bearing a spear, a sword, and a pair of ravens. As the figure pointed it's spear at the Shadow, an old, clear sounding voice spoke in his mind;
"I am thou, Thou art I.
From the love in your soul I rise.
I am Odin of the Tower Arcana, All-Father of the Aesir.
Use my Wisdom to pierce through to victory!"

Caim blinked in astonishment at the new Persona, and then pointed at Shadow!Angelus,

"Distract it!"

Giving a simple nod, the Persona took up it's spear and charged towards the Shadow, bringing the spear down near the shadows head, the two ravens circling the battle all the while. In the meantime, Caim scrambled to get Kingsblood and Angelus' Evoker from the top of the treasure pile; Angelus shouting from her cage again, "Caim, have your Persona come by the cage!"

After she yelled this, Caim looked over his shoulder and shouted at Odin,

"You heard her! Get over there!"

As Caim continued his scramble up the pile, Odin only gave a solemn nod and made a hand motion for his ravens, to which one opened it's mouth, and belched a jet of flames at the Shadow; and the second divebombed for an eye. After this, the Persona floated it's way towards Angelus' cage, giving the dragoness something of a fond look before turning it's attention back to the Shadow.

 

[Sgt_Jakeman214]

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia - The Anti-Shadow Weapon, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
Mood Music (It does change believe it or not!) [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYjrM-e2QIY&feature=player_detailpage#t=176]
With that in mind, she dryly spoke after Jenny inquired to Jake's body. "We're getting him out of here. Wanderer, if you aren't getting him, I'll toss him in with the robot. At least in death, he'll be on top of that thing." It was clear that her main focus was on getting out of there quickly instead of taking care of her own condition..

Death is something that has a different meaning for all. For some, it is the end of all, oblivion. For others, merely the next step in the journey. For others still, eternal salvation or damnation. For Jake, it seemed his journey was not over just yet. His soul stood at parade rest by his body as his comrades decided what to do with it. His eyes fluttered open, and he took a slow look around at the situation.

"G'day Jack. Time to go, eh?" Jake said quietly as the Grim Reaper appeared beside him.
The hooded figure nodded. "Yes, it is." He replied in a low tone, gravel and sadness still prevalent.
Jake shook his head sadly. "I only have one regret Jack. I never repaid Angelus. I've made my peace with everything else."

Jake turned to the Grim Reaper. Jack's head lowered, the hood obscuring his face still. Several moments passed before Jack spoke, low and harsh yet with warmth.
"You gave me a daughter... You gave me so much... Before we leave, I will grant you your last wish. At this very moment I could be called to visit the Dragon or her Pact Partner should things go badly. You cannot interfere as you are, neither can I. Come."

Jack spun on his heel and motioned into the darkness. Jake followed and the pair disappeared from that section of the twisted reality of the Shadow Zone.

Spoiler: Meanwhile...

Shadow Zone: ??? Angelus | Shadow!Angelus | Caim
At the far end of the Zone, Jack and Jake quietly stepped out. They were both ghosts in this realm, non existent for all intents and purposes, spectators only. They had arrived in time to see Shadow!Angelus gloat over taking her place in the real world, then Caim accepting his Persona to finally seeing the battle truly heat up. Jake shook his head sadly again. "I wish that damn Dragon would learn to stop doubting herself... Jack, could you perhaps help me say a few words?"

Jack simply nodded and placed his hand upon Jake's shoulder.

A small voice offered the smallest of advice to the true Dragon Angelus, trapped in her cell.

[small]"Pride is just your Sin, not your Definition."[/small]

The two dead souls stood in solitude to watch the battle conclude. Even if the Dragon did not heed his words, he had tried and that was what mattered to the Dead Author.

 

[Blast Off To Titan]

Paulownia Mall | Wild Duck Burger: Cadolbolg, Devon, Ella, Kalastryn, Som(?), Ryan, Teri

[color=0E59E4]"Sorry... Eh... I appreciate the gesture, Ryan, really, I do; but I'd appreciate it more if that whole hand thing didn't happen again. I'm not really this touchy feely, even with friends..."[/color]

With his alergies finally cleared, Som found himself in a better mood and hungry. As savory as the Beef Noodle Soup seemed, he noted that the server had been taking great joy in spiking the noodles with his saliva. As the Hunter was unsure as to whether this was apart of the cuisine, he had kept his mouth closed on the matter, however it did not mean that he was curious enough to taste the spit laced broth no matter how aromatic it was.

Following the Miature Dragon, The Cursed Bard, The Demoness, The Wizard, the Dragonoid and the Cleric, the Hunter noticed a peculiar tensing of his body when the one known as Ryan took Teri's hand into its own. Even more peculiar was the muffled chortle that Som released when The Ship's Medical Officer deftly slipped from the hand holding.

"[small]Out of his league.[/small]" The Hunter muttered as he continued walking, unsure if anyone had heard the uncharacteristic comment from the Hunter as they arrived at their next food based destination.

This Wild Duck Burger establishment smelled even better than the Beef Noodle Soup shop that the group had just left and what was even better was the fact that the Hunter actually knew what Duck was.

"The owners must have hired some excellent Hunters if they are able to serve Duck in this great a quantity." Som commented, his voice filled with a bit of envy as he had yet to hunt down one of their number.

As he settled down at the table, he finally took note of the conversation that had been ongoing between the Cleric and the Dragonoid who were apparently part of a Divine group of beings known as Authors and of these Author beings was responsible for creating parts of this existence. Though they were the creators, they did not seem to have absolute control over their creations as more than a few of their number had bore the scars of such rebellion.

Could it be that there was one of these beings that was responsible for his and his ward being in this realm rather than home? The Hunter disliked the possibility of such immensely as it clashed fiercely with his inborn sense of independence. Yet, here Som and Constance were. Even though he and the Vampire were under the belief that their arrival had been the result of a violent confluence of magical interaction, they should have been dead, not in another realm.

"Perhaps we should check the local Public House after we have finished with this location. We have yet to investigate that particular establishment and there may be something worth looking into while we are there." The Hunter stated, knowing that at the very least, they could locate something to drink.

[hr]

Shadow Zone | Strike Team #2: Constance, David, Slindis, Ton Ton, Yu

Constance was relieved to find that Ton Ton was uninjured, though it did bother the Sorrowfeld Vampire that Caim had disappeared during the battle with the Shadow Fiend. The relief was rather short lived as she came to the realization that she had spent most of the fight frozen in place and unable to assist the others. If only she were more experienced, she would be better suited towards assisting the others and eventually she could maybe one day protect her home.

She had a vague recollection of a half remembered dream where Som had been training her to fight. Based on the Hunter's attitude towards her the last few times that had been in the same area as one another, her request for assistance would have probably been met with a scoff before Som walked off.

Looking at the others in the group, went from group member to group member, looking for a possible battle mentor.

The Human, David, seemed too caustic to request the favor from. More of his harsh insults were more than likely the only thing that the Vampire would receive from him. Ton Ton's choice of weapons, the short range chef's knife, would clash with Constance's own favored weapon.

This left her remaining choices as being Slindis and -

"Yu. Are you alright?" The Sorrowfeld Faux-Neko asked as she moved towards the wounded human who was using his Katana as a crutch. As she closed in on him, she noted that there was a deep scar on his leg that would require medical attention, which would not be available until they returned to the airship.

"(Bast? Is there anything that we can do to help him?)" Constance asked her Persona who had retreated back to where ever she dwelled when she was not needed.

"(Of course we can help him. Do you not know what I am capable of?)" Bast asked gruffly as she reappeared next to the still warm remains of the Shadow that had been defeated by the group and bit down into it. Even though the creature was dead, Bast was still able to absorb the remaining life essence from the creature. A few moments later, the great feline headed Persona started channeling a warm healing energy into the wounded Yu.

Waiting for Bast to finish tending to the wounded Yu, Constance turned to the remaining member of the group.

"Miss Slindis. Could I have a word with you?" Constance asked nervously.

"I know that I've been showing how inexperience and untrained I am recently and I was wondering if it would be possible for you to teach me a thing or two so that I'm not such a danger to the Crew?"

 

[StormShaun]

Quick Exit.
Wanderer & Shadow Attack force 1.
Location: Shadow Zone 1 | Personaverse.

Hearing the instructions to the exit just made the Wanderer more annoyed at this situation. "It'll be better if you take him ... I rather not touch any blood at the moment, but if you need the body to be patched up for the funeral I can do it." He said briefly before turning away to walk fast back east. The thought of a dead body being stuff into a bag like that made him sick and he would rather not see the sight.

Walking quickly to the exit, the Wanderer ignored most things around him, good or bad. Getting to the exit he hopped through to the other side. As soon as he was in the clear his body swung towards the nearest wall. Soon to be feeling more then a tad sick, Wanderer took the blood vial of the Author out and examined it. "A weapon ... is that all I can think of?" He said again before putting the vial back before he tried to get his energy back.

"If there is anything to do, I would rather rest." He spoke to himself.

Health.
Yu Narukami & Shadow Attack force 2 .
Location: Shadow Zone 2 | Personaverse.

As Slindis patched Yu up, he stretched the leg and felt it could be used perfectly fine until he had received some attention of the Shadow Operatives Medical unit. "Thank ... " Yu said with a smile mixed with pain. Turning to the David who had begun to talk to him. "Well ... in all honestly I would say bad." Yu said back to him with a similar mental state to David's.

"But like what Slindis-san said ... you did do good. Right now though, we should focus on finishing our part."

 

[Diablo1099_v1legacy]

Port Island Station - Club Escapade: Rugal

Right after Mitsuru got the call from Rugal, the Ambulance veered slightly as a speeding car cut across an intersection.
What she didn't know was that car was Rugal finding out where Mr. Skin ran off to the only way he knew how: Shock and Awe.
As he driving, he had his PDA call the club's landline number, having them on loudspeaker until he was able to get info on the APB.
*Ring Ring...Ring Ring* "Hell, Club Escapade? You calling for a reservation, we're booked for tonight."
"Nah, just trying to find a friend of mine, does by the name of Mr. Skin. African American, we were talking earlier, Looks like a poor mans Snoop Dogg?" he asked as he was nearing the mall, serving in and out of traffic as he did.
Needless to say, the employee knew instantly who he was talking to.
"...Sir...If you keep harassing business, we will be forced to call the police..."
"...I see, Hold that thought..." Rugal said as he jammed his foot on the throttle as he lined up the car with the clubs loading bay.
Once he had the angle lined up, he ejected from the car, taking his PDA with him before rolling on the road and stopping just in time to see the car plow into the rear of the club, the crash and chaos reflecting on the other end of the line.
"...There are nearly 4 million cars in this city. Do you want me to send you another?...Tell me where he was going." He coldly asked, not caring for the well being of anyone in the club.
Or even the building for that matter.

Tokyo Streets: Ambulance: Akane, Deadshot

"HEY WATCH IT YOU FUCKING PSYCHOPATH!" Deadshot shouted as he watched the car race past in the windows of the Ambulance.
He paused when he heard the words "Police Operation".
"Mind if I ask what that's about or is it above my pay grade? in any case, Yeah, the ship is cool. Yo, Starfox (Akane), you have anywhere you want to do while we're sightseeing?" He then asked both women as he checked the infected.
"Also tell them to step on it, Dead people often shit themselves when they die and I sure as hell don't want to be in here when that happens..."

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia

After Fukka gave them the all clear, Jenny saved her strength for the most part as her Melethia, Cz, Wanderer and Annie began making their way out of the Shadow Zone and back into the Shadow Operatives building.
Needless to say, she would be making another trip to the Med Bay, something that her Shadow was keen to remind her of.
"You know, it's not really a good thing when you can't keep track how many times you've been in the medical bay...Least the others managed to walk themselves there..."
Annie could feel Jenny cringe a little at her Shadow's spiteful words.

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami

"Yeah...wooo...God, I feel like I just give blood to half an 3rd world country..." David said as he finally managed to get up off the ground, still rather shakey as he did.
"I'll admit, it's nice to be the one with the big gun for once...HEY! NRA GUY! (Apollo) THANKS." He then shouted out into the Shadow's at his Persona's sniping den, getting an answer in the form of:
"IT'S APOLLO AND YOUR WELCOME!" The Sniper Persona said as he faded away, his work done for now.
"Right...I'm most likely wrong on this...but we need to regroup and get a serious Search and Rescue effort going. Us wandering around here waiting to get snatched up like Caim did won't get us any closer to finding him. Fuck-ya (Fukka), lead the way..." He said to the team, clearly not in any state to do the old "Walk a straight line" test...

 

[Diablo1099_v1legacy]

Post part 2 because I derped!

Iwadatoi Station - Strip Mall - Mitsuru's Car: Akane, Deadshot, Mitsuru
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pr5RMY5FqY]

Glad to get away from the soon to be dead infected, Deadshot then turned to the Ginger man asking what was going on.
"Believe me, Goldeneye, when we know, it'll be on the news. I wouldn't worry about it. You just go see to your Aunt, you get a ticket for speeding, Tell me and I'll tear it up. Now move along." He then said, covering for whatever the hell Mitsuru was going on about.
"...[sub]This is something that'll be on the news, right?[/sub]..." He then asked his "C.O.".

Spoiler: Meanwhile...

Shadow Zone: ???: Angelus, Caim, Jake, Jack

The Raven's fire was an annoyance, but the attacks on the Shadow Dragon's eyes were far more so as Odin began trying to break the lock.
"NO! YOU'VE MEDDLED IN MY LIFE FOR FAR TOO LONG! I WON'T LET YOU TAKE THIS FROM ME!" She shouted, realizing this battle was going sour as she swiped her tail in the air in an attempt to hit the Ravens.
Once she had a free moment, she finally managed to line up a shot at Odin and Caim, another set of homing fireballs getting sent out right as Caim got both the Evoker and Kingsblood out from one of the loot piles.
As the fireball neared Odin, Angelus saw the bars begin to bend, Now might be a good time to get out, least she end up sandwiched between the melting roof and the soon to be boiling floor of her cell.

 

[bluecrimson]

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Wild Duck Burger: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmRQUuqtJas]

Spoiler: Images are large

Store Front

Interior

The interior of the Burger Joint brought up more than a few questions to Ella and Devon. First, the food didn't even smell all that good to the pair. To be honest, it made McDonald's smell like gourmet food. The pair glanced at some of the fries that the bundled-up patrons were eating and were wondering whether they'd been sitting under the warming lamps for three or four hours, but at least they looked better than the burgers.

Since Devon had been a burger person for a long time, the sheer amount of people herding in for this stuff felt off.[color=00c863]"Um, Teri? I really know it sounds flippant of me, but the burgers here are... well, I think we could find better meals at a truck stop gas station. Or anywhere, really. Why does everyone here seem to think they're good? I mean, it's not even like the McDonalds 'fast made with small but good aromas' good. And with all of these jackets?"[/color] While she was lost in that thought, she also responded to Cadolbolg's statements.

[color=00c863]"Okay, Cadol. Just don't make me eat these burgers... the smell makes me not want too eat meat any more. Ick! Still, try out new stuff? It does sound better than what's going on now with me, after all. I'm sill a bot sore from yesterday."[/color] Like all of the other statements that had come from Devon about her fighting the night before, she was undercut by how stiffly she had been moving around when the others weren't looking - It was clear to Cadol that his sister was still really hurting even if she didn't say anything.

Ella had her suspicions as well, and she leaned over to Teri and Ryan. "You know, this is kinda creepy... are they serving the burgers with Kool-Aid on the side?" Even if she was looking forward to some food, she didn't want any from here. Heck, Ella almost wanted to drag Som out of there before that gut feeling of hers about the shop proved to be true.

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia - The Anti-Shadow Weapon, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Wd6buEQvnc]

Melethia didn't even blink while putting Jake's still-warm body in the bag, having it land right on top of the deactivated Akontia. "The others will be on our tail, so it's not too bad. Annie, you can manage until we get out, but I'll lead the group out if you don't want to Evoke." With that, the youngest there (Well, unless you were counting Cz's form at the moment) led the group with bloodstained hands without missing a beat. If anything, she seemed rather cold and calculating. Her reaction was odd even for the Rising Dawn; it was a matter of how much she'd flirted with death back at her home.

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY8JNUwSYqs]

SLindis calmly approached the young vampiress and curtly replied to the request. [color=c200]"If you really wish it, I can find the time to aid you in combat. I won't say it'll be easy, by any means; I've done a poor job if my students haven't cursed my name at some point in the training. If you endure it, you'll find yourself very capable in combat."[/color] She gave the girl some time to mull it over as she talked to the others there.

[color=c200]"The rest of you should head back out and rest up; I'll stay with Ton-Ton and aid him. It's better than any of you overextending yourselves, and David might need that aid."[/color] Her voice didn't seem critical of those there, but there was a clear edge in it.

 

[Kalastryn]

snip

snip

"To say I agree with your statements on the smell is an understatement... the stench here could kill a troglodyte's appetite." She said... and overlooking the unintentional rhyme she was quite serious... actually fighting the urge to hold her nose as she spoke. "That's not the only thing I agree with either... I mean, it's pretty warm out for people to unanimously wear such warm clothing... forgive me but I never caught your name, Ma'am." she said to who was, unbeknownst to her, Devon.

Before waiting on an answer however she got out one last thought. "and if even one person could find the time, and a less than public place, I'd like to be filled in on all that's going on... I mean since I arrived here I've felt rather... drained... she said, not explicitly saying that... well when you feel nearly boundless magical energy coursing through your veins for years... such as a sorcerer does, and then suddenly lose most if not all of it in the course of a 3 second landing somewhere your unfamiliar with... you tend to take note of the loss.

 

[StormShaun]

Mad Bull energy drink, "Guaranteed to make you see the truth"
Yu Narukami & Shadow Attack force 2 .
Location: Shadow Zone 2 | Personaverse.

Walking to the front of the second and recuperating group, Yu Narukami saw Constance and recounted the warm feeling he felt before, this was before Slindis helped him too. Wiping his face, the blood on Yu had dried up and he looked at this rip in his pants. Yu felt annoyed by the rip in his leg, but was relieved that he could still walk. Pulling out a can his bought earlier at the Shadow Operative Center, it was a energy drink marked "Mad Bull".

Pulling the tab, the loud escape made a "TISSssss* sound near Yu. Drinking it, Yu could feel a tad more energy come into him as if he had started to run laps around his school. Walking to Constance, he gave a low bow of his head. Stopping to open his mouth, "Thank you if you helped me as well ... my eyes were not clear at the time, but thank you once again." he simply said before making his way to David and offered him a drink of his energy drink.

"Need any?"

 

[Diablo1099_v1legacy]

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia

Still not wanting to reveal her Shadow's intent, Jenny merely said "Just some of the burns sting, don't worry...Just get to the exit, Staying here won't do us much good."
"What? Worried I'd turn up? It's going to happen sooner or later..." The Shadow then said as Jenny began to count down the seconds until they were out of this crazy place.

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami

David made a note of Slindis's idea, but he wasn't exactly a fan of it.
"Listen...Caim managed to get snatched up in the space of a second where we weren't looking. If you and Ton Ton stay here, you'll just increase the chance of the same happening to you. No, we need to get back to our realm, work with the Shadow Operatives and use their equipment to track them down before we go for a rescue. Mightn't be the fastest way, but we need to think this out more beyond "Waiting in the Dark"." He said before addressing Ton Ton.
"Look Ton, I get what you are saying, but what happens if you and Slin get snatched up? I know I'm not really one to talk but if that happens, that will SERIOUSLY hurt our chances of finding both them and you two...Just saying." He added, knowing full well that he wasn't exactly in a position to say no or to stop them.
When Yu offered the drink, he quickly took a few glups before handing it back.
"Cheers...Ew, wish they could make one of these that didn't taste like piss..." He said before wiping his mouth with his shelve before pressing on, letting the Drow and Tonberry make up their minds on whether to stay or not.
"So Yu, you actually do this shit for a living?...These Shadow's, Personas, What rank are you in your group? Just this is Grade A Soldier Bullshit right here..."

 

[Kalastryn]

snip

Responding to Ryan's kindness with a small portion of modesty she said "Oh no I'm quite fine... it's not a drain on my strength or anything, rather... something else..." she said, still not wanting to say in the middle of so many unfamiliar faces, that she feels as though she lost the power to apply 16 years of practice and learning since the activation of her sorcerer's abilities. "Well not physical strength anyway... I'll talk about it once we're done here... damn, so many things I can't just outright say here... hmm..." she pondered, seeming slightly annoyed. ("But hey, it's not like you haven't been keeping secrets since you turned 10 right?") her shadow taunted, again from the reaches of her mind... but she... IT did have a point...

 

[StormShaun]

His own world.
Yu Narukami & Shadow Attack force 2 .
Location: Shadow Zone 2 | Personaverse.

"Honestly this is the first time I tried this stuff ... it is from this city, I never get it where I'm from ..." Yu said again to David, the sweat on the student's forehead was wiped off quickly. Letting the energy and blood flow from the energy drink, David mentioned what was Yu's position in this whole problem and secret world hidden from the eyes of the world.

Soon enough past memories began to surface just like many times before. "I am not actually apart of the Shadow Operatives, they simply asked for my help and I gladly do so ... this is because we are both involved in the same investigation. A few months back I did not even know these guys, but after a certain incident we got involved with one and another." Yu said while covering how he knew about these Operatives, then he got to the bulk of it.

"Back a while ago I got into another incident, this one was before I met Mitsuru and such. I moved to a small town due to my parents' jobs. My uncle and cousin gladly had me stay for the year. Once I had settled in with school, weird murderers began to happen around town. Soon enough I got involved with some new school friends whom turned out to become my very closest best friends ... I had even began to love a tomboyish girl later on ... " He gave a sweet smile as he began to recall mostly his friends and the good times.

"Then we all got involved in these murders, me and my not-yet best friend discovered a world inside the TV, rumors called it the Midnight Channel, then discovered our Personas ... fast forward we saved each other from being killed by our Shadows and soon enough we began a Investigation group with me leading it. To this very day I am leading it, even if I am far away from my friends." Yu's happy face turned serious as he began to get to the point of it all, yet his face seemed to remain neutral.

"As days turned to weeks and into months, our friendship and investigation group became bigger ... soon enough we had gained enough clues we found the guy throwing people into the TV world, killing them. Yet this was not the true culprit, that was Adachi, my uncle's young detective partner ... he formed this crime." Yet Yu laughed and covered his face as if he recalled being fooled all those times. "But ... in the end, we found out that the true culprit was a deity devoted to keep us 'happy', to keep us away from the truth ... so we beat it and saved the town. The funny thing is that is not the end for our investigation, after that a couple more things happened which lead me here." By the end of this tale, Yu's face had lightened up well and looked like the pain was completely wiped away from it too.

"It was worth it ... in the end we solved the mystery, saved the town and had fun in-between. Still, bad things happen, yet the good things overrule it ... but what am I kidding, I'm only young." Yu said as he crushed the can in his hand and looked towards David.

"Enough about me and my life story ... what about you?"

 

[bluecrimson]

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Wild Duck Burger: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmRQUuqtJas]

Spoiler: Images are large

Store Front

Interior

Devon almost shook her head in disappointment after realizing what Kalastryn was feeling... She couldn't really claim to have it too bad when Kalastryn really needed her magic for so many things.[color=00c863]"Well, you feel drained? It happens in the area, but you just need to find the few odd spots where you can work your magic, so to say. Even in those zones, you really need to be in the right mindset.

I can't believe I failed to introduce myself, though. I'm Devon, and I'm glad to see you. Probably the exact opposite of what I feel about the food here, really."[/color] If Kalastryn was paying attention, she could see that Devon glanced to the red jewelry the Tiefling was wearing, and the faint smell of Hell and something else could be smelled around Devon.

Ella had her suspicions as well, and she leaned over to Teri and Ryan. "THat's a good point... Ryan, Teri, are you about ready to go? Of course, I'll get some food to go." With that, Ella made her way to the back of the line and waited until she got her burgers (The cheapest she could findd on the menu, along with some cheap fries), Although she never opened the wrappers. It was silly, but she wanted to know if there was something in the food that was causing so many to eat there.

Shadow Zone (Group 1): Akontia - The Anti-Shadow Weapon, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Wd6buEQvnc]

Melethia curtly inquired to Annie as they made their way through the area. "Annie, it's good that you're monitoring Jenny, but keep an eye out for other flankers. Who knows if there's any more skirmishing Shadows?" The young girl had the vigilance of a soldier as she kept an eye out for any last attackers on their way out.

The Wanderer's a bit too unstable. Should I really be trusting him in a fight? Hypocrisy, thy name is Melethia.

Shadow Zone(Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY8JNUwSYqs]

[color=c200]"Narukami, it was no issue aiding you. After all, I feel that you would have returned the favor for anyone else within our group."[/color] It seemed that Slindis was satisfied with Yu's condition, although the same couldn't be said for David. After all, she could clearly see how worn-down he was.

[color=c200]"You do have a strong point, David. However, it does not mean that abandoning him is the right option. Perhaps we could find some place that I and Ton-Ton could meet Caim at?"[/color] She then knelt to Ton-Ton's eye level to hear his decision on their heading out.

 

[Diablo1099_v1legacy]

Notice: Cleared with Bluerocker

[HEADING=3]The Shadow Teams managed to make it back to to the Shadow Operatives building before another attack or disappearance occurred.[/HEADING]

Shadow Operations Building (Group 1): Akontia, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia

A long walk later, the group managed to get back to the room they entered though, a bunch of Agents standing by to both assist the team as well as collect Akontia for research.
Jenny let out a massive sigh of relief to be out as she motioned for Annie to set her down against one of the walls.
"Thank you...I'm sorry I wasn't more help..."
"She's useless you see." her Shadow taunted as a Agent came over to apply medical treatment, quickly applying Burn ointment and gauze to the burns she received from the Android like Deadshot before her.
"...I...Still can't believe he's gone...what are we going to tell Akane?...." She then said outloud, remembering how close the Kitsune was to the Author.

Shadow Operations Building (Group 2): Caim, Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami

"Don't worry, I have no intention of doing so, the second we get out, We'll bring the whole damn army if we have to. But for now, we need to get out of here. Standard search and rescue." David repeated to the duo as Ton Ton seemed adamant to stay.
"Listen Ton, I know nothing about any of this shit, about Deamons, Shadows, the Supernatural, Anything. The last few years of my life has taught me that. And that is.....ummm....dammit, forgot where I was going with that. Look, Come on, Trust me. We can't do anything staying here except give whatever attacked Caim a shot at us. I ain't leaving him here, We're coming back. I promise." He then said, causing the Tonberry to finally relent.
Thus their team began making their way to the exit, David started to perk up a little as the sugar in that drink began to kick in.

While they walked, he heard Yu recount the events that brought him here.
"...See, you lost me after you said "discovered a world inside the TV."...I mean, Arcane Magic? Another Realm? Time Travel? Whatever, but Televison?..." David managed to say, kinda surprised that anything was able to perk his interest any more.
While he had been to hell, fought angels, broken into military bases and fought a Titan, the "TV Realm" thing was still a new one to him.
"Well...Guess kids do need to read more...As for me, I'm just some git from Ireland who flunked College and joined the Military...Least before Moscow..." He sighed, remembering the disaster that occurred there as they neared the portal.

The second he was though it, he began saying "All units, We have a man still in there. I want all the resources we have pooled into that and finding the rest of our team. We also located the Shadow Generator and marked it, get in a team in there...oyyyyy...".
Once he relayed his account of the mission, he then sat in the nearest chair as he began trying to perk himself up for the Rescue before the Sugar wore off.

 

[Kalastryn]

snip

Well, at least she was apparently NOT the only one who lost a bit of magic here or there... but... Devon... "Is that a common name for women around here?" she said partially in jest, and partially in the hopes it WASN'T the Devon who wrote Slindis and Melethia into existence. (Oh COME ON! How obvious could it be?!) her shadow stung her mind in frustration. (Damn it can't I be even a little optimistic?! I'm NOT an idiot!!) she retorted having heard about enough of this bullshit! (Look, I don't care who or what you are, let's just get this the hell over with, do or get what you need from me and shove off!) She would regret that very soon... as she barely made it to the seat where Teri was to cushion her fall... before... passing out.

Spoiler: Meanwhile, in... ?????

Kala was then drawn into the reaches of her mind, her shadow standing in front of her in a pitch black space, that was provided there was actually anything under their feet. Hearing the voice from her mind, she had thought some external force was trying to control her psyche. This creature, on the other hand, looked exactly like she did, but with an aura of darkness so thick it was visible. Before Kala could even ask the question many people would ask in that situation "Oh hold your breath for the sake of both of us, I am a shadow, YOUR shadow... everything you despise about yourself, and so much more... I know everything about you. You... me... what difference do those words make, in the end we are one and the same." the shadow said, in a rather calm, but malicious sounding tone. "And I can guarantee you don't just know these things from treating my subconscious like a low budget inn, providing you know anything at all?"

"If that were the case how would I know what you've forced out of your mind for years? I could show us of course... but I want something in return." To most people, listening to a tiefling's deal was a foolish thing, and an awkward thing in this case when it's yourself... but seeing as how she was going to hell eventually... what's the worst that could happen. "and what are the terms?"

"Well two things... first, you have to take full responsibility for what you've done. Second, you have to confess whatever you find the greatest of your sins to one paladin of the silver flame... agreed?"

Kala knew what her shadow was playing at, and she did NOT agree. "You know you don't even have to say it." She bluffed "Forced out of my mind? No, I've been reminded of all of it simply by looking at what you are... and I accept not your terms, but us in general. A great friend of mine... ours, once said that every light casts a shadow... I won't deny that I have my darker half, but as to whether or not I confess to Slindis is my own business." she said, her deception seeming to have worked as the shadow disappeared into a sort of card... she had no idea what it meant, but the image was

Spoiler: Arcana

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

as she picked up the card images she didn't care for a first filled her mind, and her shadow, now made placid narrated her life. From when she was born and abandoned, from when she sneaked into the time traveling group of invaders in Stormreach's devil assault lead by another tiefling with much more horrid intentions named Tremas, to try and find her father before she was abandoned, only to fail. it then explained what there was about her life that she DIDN'T know. "You have always had your assumptions, simply because you never heard my voice before, that your father and mother abandoned us. They did, but you never knew why. Your mother was an elf woman by the name of Arietta... and your father, a Tiefling of course whose name was never really written for him. Despite his flaws, your father became quite a hero. He met with your aristocratic mother for years. she was meant to be married to another, but somehow, both of them were broken free from being authored for... and that's when they had you... in secret. By then Arietta was a married woman, to a paladin of the Undying Court. The reason you were abandoned from birth is so that your life wouldn't be discovered... so that it would be preserved. You know the rest of the story until then... but this in itself is answer to one of your most recent questions... but I'll let you figure that out for now..." She said as Kala lay asleep for but a while longer.

 

[bluerocker]

I do change the music. It's up to you to notice.

Paulownia Mall - Club Escapade: Garm, Rugal,
Mood Music (Something I think Rugal would approve of, given his mindset) [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8j6DCobhCw]

When Garm arrived on the scene, he took to hiding behind some of the wreckage as he began listening in to what Rugal was saying and doing, his ears flattening to the back of his head, [color=356D60]"Oh boy... You won't like this, Tear-ri. Alpha Rugal just crashed a car into the club. And I think he meant to..."[/color]
[color=0E59E4]"Lord... Okay, what else is going on?"[/color]
[color=356D60]"Aside from the damages? Just asking the people where the Skin guy is, I guess. I hope it doesn't get too out of hand. I might have to step in if it does. After all, from what I've seen in this pack, the killing of those who do not directly confront us is a no go?"[/color]
Garm could hear a distinct pause for a moment before Teri answered back, [color=0E59E4]"You pay attention REALLY well. Good boy."[/color]

Meanwhile, in the club, most of the occupants dived behind the bar, or tried to hide behind something before one of them shakily calling out, "Mr. Skin disappeared with some of the workers right after you left. We've no idea where he is! Besides, even if we did, we wouldn't tell you!"
"SAYS YOU! He's busting up my shop for that asshole! You're fired!"

And with that, a scrawny looking teenager was thrown from behind the bar. Looking up at the German body builder, the youth blanched and pointed at the back where Rugal came in, "[small]Went out that way towards the shrine. Please don't hurt me.[/small]"

Iwadatoi Station - Strip Mall - In Transit to Shadow Operatives Building: Akane, Deadshot, Mitsuru
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwRlfzymuj0]

[color=95555]"I can assure you that you can get more takoyaki later, Akane-san. At the present, the case has taken priority, especially where this person is confirmed. Excuse me -"[/color]

She turned her head to the driver (as per Deadshot's instructions), and barked in a surprisingly harsh tone, [color=955555]"What part of INFECTED do you not understand?! If we do not hurry, this man will die, losing both his life, and what little chance we have to stop this madness! NOW MOVE!"[/color]

Turning back to the duo without a hair out of place, she nodded, and tapped more buttons on her phone as she continued, probably in coordinating the operation, [color=955555]"I don't see why I shouldn't tell you; it does regard one of your teammates after all. Rugal Bernstein has reasonable belief that a person by the pseudonym of 'Mr. Skin' is involved in our investigation. I'm sending in available police forces to back him up in the capture of this individual. Also, just so you know, the body you found by the Shrine has been recovered and relocated the the Shadow Operatives Building. It's being examined as we speak"[/color]

Iwatdatoi Station - Strip Mall - Wild Duck Burger: Som(?), Teri, Ella, Devon, Cadolbolg, Ryan, Kalastryn
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmRQUuqtJas]

Cadolbolg giggled lightly, adding, "No thanks on those burgers! I got plenty full from my beef bowl and ginger. But yeah, just try new stuff! I bet you'll have fun~!
What's this about feeling sore though? Are you still hurt?"

Teri gave a nod with Devon's explanation about Kalastryn's sudden fatigue, [color=0E59E4]"Devon's right. If I had my magic on hand, I'd have cast 'Purify Food and Drink' by now! But I agree with both Som and Ella. It'd be nice to get out of here and grab a drink. eh- Maybe not at the club though. Garm says that Dad's doing stuff there, and we don't really wanna be round him right now... How bout we go tell Mitsuru about what we saw here? You are right, this place is throwing up a few too many red flags for me to feel comfortable..."[/color]

When that statement was followed by surprised stares, the Cleric shrugged and got up to grab her stuff (the smell of Wild Duck Burger's food being far more than to put her off of it) [color=0E59E4]"Jesus was not against drinking. He turned water into wine and started communion, for pete's sake! What he didn't like was drunkedness. Quite a big difference there. And I turned 20 a couple months ago, so it's no biggie. Wait, what's with the looks?"
"They couldn't have known. You never told them the date, dumb dumb. Not your parents, sister, friends.... Wow. I'm just gonna sit here and eat this non-existent popcorn and laugh at the shit you're gonna get for that. HA!"[/color]

However, the reverie didn't last long when Kalastryn collapsed, to which Teri immediately bent down and asked, [color=0E59E4]"Ah shit! Uh... She didn't eat anything from here, did she?"[/color]

"I don't think so... You think we can carry her out?"

Shadow Operatives Building:
(Group 1): Akontia, Annie, Cz, Jake, Jenny, The Wanderer, Melethia
(Group 2): Constance, David, Slin, Ton-Ton, Narukami
Mood Music (both sections) [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJv_2T74bdU]

The Shadow Operatives were more than helpful in getting the party to the vans to take them back to the Operatives building, but before they left, they saw Fuuka with a phone, and she called out, [color=5F8B7F]"I'll be here with a phone. I'll let you know if I find Caim and Angelus, okay?"[/color]

However, the ride back was still equally somber, as the death of Jake hung heavy among the Rising Dawn. Ton Ton, in the meantime, sat quietly in Slindis' lap on the ride back and muttered, [color=15650D]"I hope we did the right thing...."[/color]

((Feel free to mix and mingle as you like.))

Spoiler: Meanwhile...

Shadow Zone: ???: Angelus
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbRPqsMgBws]

Caim fell down the gold pile unceremoniously with the blades in hand, and gave a harsh cough (at least, that's what a cry would have sounded like without a voice) when some molten gold splashed on his leg, and tried to crawl away from the liquid metal, his PDA saying,

"I've got them, Angelus! I'll be there in a few moments!"

With the pain he was in, that was probably not so.

As for Odin and the ravens, the hit with the tail didn't seem to phase the bird (Odin Resists Phys), but the fire seemed like something to contend with far more. Taking the place in front of Angelus, the Persona shivered visibly as it took the hit for the dragoness; and readied it's spear again.

[small]"Pride is just your Sin, not your Definition."[/small]
"What the? Jake..? Are you- Oh!"

Angelus, on the other hand, saw what had happened was her chance, and lifted up the skirt before dealing a kick to some of the bars, making the weak metal bend and break after a few whacks. Crawling out, the dragoness paused when she realized a part of the gown had snagged on the bar of the prison. Giving a growl, she heard the sound of ripping and saw that the lower part of the dress tore from the effort. None the less, she was free. She gave a rushed "Thank you!" to Caim's new Persona, who was now trying to engage the dragon with his spear again, and ran over to her warrior in question. Looking over the situation, she grabbed an arm and began dragging Caim away from more of the liquid metal. Caim was beginning to look worse for wear, ugly burns just barely hiding under the collar of his shirt, no doubt from the fire blasts Odin was getting while they were trying to escape,

"Caim, we need to go!"

"No.. Break the pact with me. Run."

"You're mad! I'm not-"

"'Leaving without you?' Oh, how I loath how that sounds..."

the Shadow appeared again, Odin crushed underfoot with a claw (which also accounted for why Caim was being so lethargic at the moment), and bellowed, "Isn't this sweet? You will at least get to see one last glimpse of your precious prince before I take my rightful place in this world. But I've had more than enough out of the both of you. Prepare yourselves."

baring her sharp teeth, the dragon shaped Shadow charged in, her maw looking more than ready to bite the heads of both off of them- Were it not for Angelus' quick thinking. Seeing the black dagger shining on the floor, Angelus grabbed it and shouted, "YOU WILL NOT PUT A SINGLE CLAW ON HIM!" before plunging it straight into the Shadow's mouth.

The sound of a scream echoed in the air before the Shadow was returned to it's 'human [http://imgur.com/xe294GJ]' form, shaking before it asked, "WHY?! He has brought us nothing but problems!"

Angelus gave a "HMPH!" before helping Caim up, who was now able to move properly after Odin's release. As the old man with the ravens floated over to join it's User, the dragon continued, "It is simple. He is my pact partner, and I love him."

Both her and the Shadow went silent for a moment, Angelus looking over Kingsblood before taking the lead again, "I... I see you for what you are now. You are the remnant of stubbornness within me. The part that thought me above being mortal. It is clear to me now. I am not just a dragon in a mortal shell. I feel as a mortal does, I must use their tools to aid survival in this form, and I have it's needs. But I am no less than what I was, or ever will be. Just as my fire is a part of me, this form too is as well. It also helps me remember why the dragons are proud to be what they are. It is because they believe are the most powerful beings imaginable.

I have become powerful too, under pact bond and learning to transcend the separation between two races. And yet, a word from a mortal can undercut me like any knife; I still bleed from their tools, and I can die just as easily as they can. I just happen to have a longer lifespan. Dragons are just as mortal as humans, the unwillingness to believe I was not any better had blinded me to it, and all that was good around me. It blinded me to Caim, to the children we've adopted, and the goodness we can preserve in our actions. I was a fool, to let become so avaricious in my desire to be 'better'. That pride is a part of me, and it will probably come back to bite me in the rear end. But I will not let it define me anymore. So yes, you are me, Shadow. You are the foolish clinging to a blind self."

The Shadow looked up at it's User, and gave a small nod before becoming a Card [http://static1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120720031759/megamitensei/images/c/c9/EmpressCard.jpg] and disappearing in Angelus' hand; leaving the dragon and her pact partner alone.

A moment of silence hung in the air between the two, and Angelus turned to face Caim, wanting to say some kind of apology, but was stopped by a smile and a hand on the shoulder,

"Don't. I don't need an apology from you. I'm just glad to have found you again... Now, there is one small matter I want to be sure of, before we go. If I do recall, I heard you say something in regards to me? Care to repeat that?"

Caim's expression had taken a turn for the playful, and Angelus looked away, muttering with embarrassment, "You heard me once already. That should be enough."

"No it's not. Not for me. Even if you said it a million times, it'd never be enough. You have no idea of what kind of effect you have on me."

Angelus froze again upon hearing this, and turned back to her fellow pact partner. Apparently, he had decided to close the distance between them when she wasn't looking, because he was right there, in her face, her vision now filled with blue when there had been gold before. Hands had made their ways to her own (not that she could stop fidgeting with them), and he spoke again,

"I told you before, I'd wait for you. I won't do anything that you don't want me to, at least, not in this regard. You know my feelings. I just want to be sure I know your's....[small]Please.[/small]"

The dragon looked down to their hands, being joined in the spaces between the fingers, each looking equally scuffed up in the process. She swallowed before trying to speak again, but found the words still hard to say. It was funny how hard it was to say three simple words, wasn't it? Chrysalis would be howling with laughter if she knew what was happening at that moment. Still, it needed to be said, instead of simply skirting around the issue forever. Looking back into the sea of blue, she finally found her voice, "It has been a long time to come to terms with it, but I have realized that this feeling I have is one that is exclusive. I could imagine it being for another being. What male could rival what you are, Caim? Who could dare come close to the things we've shared? I... I have found myself equal parts enraptured and befuddled by the many ways you conduct yourself on a day-to-day basis. I could list everything about you that has called my fascination, but it has kept it's hold for some time. I love you, Caim. I understand that now...[small]Now what was that motion you are so keen on again? Something like this, yes?[/small]"

This time, the dragon was the one to close the remains of the space between them, and all was silent in the treasure room till she pulled away, "Now, to leave this blasted place. Any ideas where to?"

 

[Sgt_Jakeman214]

Iwadatoi Station - In Transit -: Akane, Deadshot, Mitsuru
Akane nodded. "Agreed, the case comes first. Rugal-san should be fine. Are there any other leads that could be followed? Otherwise, I defer to Deadshot-san here, he knows more than I do on this action."

Spoiler: Meanwhile...

Shadow Zone: ???: Angelus | Caim
Mood Music [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbRPqsMgBws]
Jake and Jack watched the battle silently. At it's end Jake smiled and let out a whoop, punching the air. He went to shout out to the pair but stopped himself. He couldn't, could he? He was dead. He shook his head sadly with a smile on his face. "Well, there ya go Jack. At bloody last!"

"Indeed. Come, time to go."

If Angelus and Caim had of looked hard, they might have seen the pair as they stepped out through a portal of Jack's, both giving a single wave over their shoulders as they left.

Fuuka's phone buzzed with a text from a long dead US cell number, untraceable.

Follow the flame to find the Dragon and Prince lost to the light.

Jack still had a spot in his heart for the Crew of the Rising Dawn. Pity he'd had a contract renegotiation some time ago.

 

[Diablo1099_v1legacy]

Paulownia Mall - Club Escapade: Garm, Rugal,

"See, if you had just said that the first time, I wouldn't have to smash this place up. Tch, You were right to fire this one. Call the police and I'll come back and send a fucking cruise ship though this dump." Rugal said as he made his way past the rubble and back towards the streets.
However he paused for a moment, before glancing back at the bar.
The Owner began to shake as he started pacing back towards him...
Only to then reach behind it and get another beer before, using the edge of the counter to open it while dumping some change on it and leaving.

Once he was out of the now wrecked Club Escapade, he quickly drained the contents as he walked out onto the road as several commuters were in awe of the wreckage.
Eyeing up the next vehicle he was going to hijack, He then said to the owner of it "Hey, For me? Oh thank you!"
"...Wait-Wha-" was all the biker managed to saw before getting the Beer Bottle broken across his face while Rugal jacked his ride and raced off towards the shrine, not caring for what anyone saw, especially Garm. (Even though he didn't know he was being watched)

Shadow Ops Building: Akane, Deadshot, Mitsuru

While Deadshot nodded at Akane's remarks, He paused when Mitsuru brought up Rugal going after a lead.
"Oh him?...Christ, if it's anything like the reception me and Annie got..." He shuddered, feeling bad for the poor bastard and hoping Rugal didn't have a fuel can with him.
"Oh well, Just drop us off here and it'll be grand..." He then said as Him and Akane were dropped off outside the Shadow Ops Building.
"Keep me posted on what you get out of him. Yo, Foxy, Want to raid the canteen on the ship or in the building? No shit off my ass." He then asked the Kitsune, seeing how keen she was for a meal.

 

[Sgt_Jakeman214]

Shadow Operatives Building: Akane, Deadshot

"I have no idea what your saying means, but yes, I would love to get some food. I wonder if they will have some of that takoyaki, that was very nice!" Akane said as they stepped out. "Why don't we try the building staff first? They may have something cooked and ready, though the canteen on the Rising Dawn will be ready to cook as well. It always is for some reason..."

She led the way inside, asking a young man on directions to the building's canteen. She didn't even flirt with him! Making quick progress, the Kitsune lead the Assassin in and they grabbed a meal each. Prawn curry on a bed of rice, it smelt good and didn't look like processed food. The odd pair sat down at a table and began to eat.