**~Welcome to the Break Room! The place of neutrality beyond the Fourth Wall where characters from various storylines can merge, mingle and relax. Maybe even fight and bicker. If all-out battles happen, the Author will step in to force it to stop. This is not a true story. This is just a random, possible collection of one-shots in various scenes with different characters. Chapters will not always post up as new, but instead may be continued on until a new chapter is made. Do not be alarmed if you find yourself rereading the chapter you last saw. It's intentionally done that way. If you have questions, wish to see certain characters meet, or would like your characters to appear, please message the Author or leave a review with your consent. There may be future spoiler hints for some stories, do be warned. Sometimes the characters will answer fan questions. It depends on their moods. The Author is not responsible for how characters react to each other. (Okay, maybe that's a touch of a white lie, but you get the idea.)~**
**The room forms to appear like a small office break room. Double doors act as the main entrance and exit with a small bathroom section to the left when one comes in. Counters with coffee makers, toasters, microwaves, paper plates and other usual things are quite apparent. Several tables, chairs and a couple refrigerators are next to be seen. The floor is a basic, yellow-white linoleum tile that is waxed with various elemental resistances. Especially for fire and ice. A small kitchen is just beyond a wall for specialty meals in a cafeteria-like setting. A parchment with the last chapter of Viral Mates is now set up to be viewed as quick explanations on why this room was made. The Author soon appears at a small computer to sip some coffee and puts up a sign: 'The Author is in. Behave yourselves.'**
Finally! The place is made. Now…ah. Updates! And work. I can do both, right?
**As the Author is now busy doing what needs to be done, Alex Mercer is, quite obviously, the first to show up.**
"Oh, joy! You're here!" Alex grinned cheerfully at the Author. "The place looks good. I'll get some drones to do various maintenance chores. Like cooking and cleaning."
That's fine. Just relax and take it easy.
"I can do that," Alex grinned. "Um, can you make this place a bit more lavish, though? I mean…yeah, it's supposed to be a basic room…"
I need to see how everyone reacts to each other first. I don't want to constantly repair luxury furniture. So, if everyone proves their worth to me, then I'll see about room upgrades.
"Okay, that's bullshit," Alex growled. "At least upgrade the chairs and tables?"
**With a roll of the eyes, the fingers tap away at the keyboard. The tables become rounded with a nice, cherry wood finish. The chairs become a bit sturdier and far more plush with deep red coloring.**
Better?
"I'll accept it," Alex smirked and moves to sit back in a chair with a nice stretch. "So, all you do is tap a few keys and the room changes?"
Yes. And only I can use this computer. I could set up other ones in here for you all to use to help get an idea of who is who for which story arc.
"That would be good! If I'm to play as bouncer, I need to read up on a few of these other guys that may appear. I need to know a bit more."
Agreed.
**A few more taps on the keyboard had the room lengthen to reveal a new section with multiple computer usage. Alex now moves to silently study up and read what he can.**
**The double doors swing open to reveal Tyrael from the Author's storyline: Angelic Dilemma. He was quite curious of the place when he first noticed it, and he simply had to see what it was about. On walking over to the counters, he pauses at the sight of the toaster.**
"What is this?" Tyrael blinked with confusion. He kept a hand on El'druin as it hung from his hip. He was clearly confused by this place. It looked nothing like he saw it before, but the new items on the countertops definitely puzzled him.
"It's called a toaster. You can make bread crunchy in it," Alex said. "I'm Alex Mercer. We somewhat met when you tried to crash my bonus plot."
"What? Ah, no. It wasn't intentional. And what's this?" he asked and pointed to the microwave.
"Okay. Fine. I get it," Alex rolled his eyes. He wasn't going to explain how everything worked. He only wanted to help keep the peace. "Hey, Author!"
Yes? What is it?
"Can we get some form of guides up to put over a few of these things with instructions for others to know how to use them? To help them out?" he asked.
**The Author muses at this and taps away at the keyboard. Small signs with basic instructions and descriptions now appear over most of the appliances. As the characters knew what they were in time, the signs would vanish.**
"Oh…" Tyrael thought and read the new sign. "Ah! I see. Interesting!"
"So, what exactly are you?" Alex asked. "I'm a virus."
"A what?" he frowned.
"It's complicated," Alex shrugged.
"Oh. Well, I was the Archangel of Justice, but I removed my wings to become mortal."
"Why do that?"
"It's complicated," Tyrael grinned slightly. That got Alex grinning back.
"Okay. I think I like you," Alex chuckled. "Are you married?"
"Sort of. It's a tricky situation. I do have a son now," he said and sat down near him.
"Nice! At least, for your story arc here, you have a kid and got married. So, what does your wife look like?" Alex asked.
"Well," Tyrael pursed his lips together. "She has hair the color of melted gold."
"Really?"
"Yes. And, ah, very full figured."
"Sounds like my mate," Alex mused. "She's pretty?"
"Stunning."
"Interesting. Mine's the same, but her hair is a bit more white. Like a cream color. I also have kids with her. We should have our girls meet up at some point."
"We could," Tyrael nodded. "It would be an amusing set up. You think?"
"I'd be sitting back with a bowl of popcorn," Alex grinned.
"A bowl of what?" he asked. Alex sighed and waved his hand to 'never mind' the issue. At the sight of Malthael coming in next through the doors, Tyrael waved at him.
"I was looking for you…hmm…" Malthael started. He just realized the place he appeared in.
"Now…" Alex mused. "Who are you?"
"Someone you do not want to know," Malthael droned out. At this bit of news, Alex grinned. "What…place is this?"
It's called the Break Room. Alex Mercer is the one sitting in the chair next to Tyrael. You can call me Author. This room was made after Alex broke the Fourth Wall. Want a short story version? That was it. Want the longer story? Read the parchment on the back wall. It's the Bonus Chapter to Viral Mates. I won't explain anything more, but it shows what happened.
**The Author says this calmly and continues to work at the computer.**
"Interesting…" Malthael admitted.
"Word of the day," Alex nodded. Malthael seemed to snort and now moved to go to where the parchment was. Tyrael now got up to join him. He may as well learn about everything, too. Alex only yawned and stretched. After several minutes went by, Malthael seemed highly amused. Now he turned and moved over to where the Author is working.
"I have a…question for you," he said.
Yes?
"I would like another dream to happen for her. But…with something different," Malthael mused.
I'm listening. What's your idea?
"Something with…Urzael. Maybe…" he said. He was going to get into more detail, but Tyrael walked over now to stop him.
"She doesn't need any more stress! Anyways, you needed me. I'm here. What's needed?" Tyrael asked. Malthael whispered softly in his ear. "Understood."
"What?" Alex asked.
"My wife needs me," Tyrael said. That got Alex to nod. Malthael and Tyrael now left the room, and Alex sighs. He didn't realize how boring it could get. But he didn't want to leave, either.
"Hmm. Ah! I'll read up a bit," Alex mused to himself and moved to a computer to study a bit more on who to expect to show up.
**Time lapses and various drones from Alex Mercer's hive mind appear to start rearranging the room. Better quality equipment is swapped out. The kitchen is upgraded drastically to resemble a five-star restaurant stocked with unique items from all over. After much arguing, the Author agrees to set up marble tile counters and flooring of a dark green color. Better lighting is installed in the form of chandeliers and wall sconces of an elegant design.**
"Now I'm happy. This place looks better. The bathrooms are next," Alex nodded.
Really? Is that really necessary?
"If I'm going to have anyone plant their ass on a toilet seat, I'd rather it be done in style!" he argued. "Besides, I caused this. I'll make sure that things are done right around here."
Does Agatha know where you are?
"She does. She's fine."
If you say so.
"What's that supposed to mean?" he scowled. At no response, he sighed and began to look over the different coffee drinks and snacks in stock. At the sound of the double-doors swinging open he turned to look. Then he paused with a bit of surprise at the red, over-muscled male that came in. A glowing yellow gaze glanced around, and his horns just barely missed the hanging lights.
"The Hell is this?" Horny snorted and looked around. The folding scythe slung to his back looked ready for instant use.
"Are you the devil?" Alex asked.
"No. But I know him," Horny smirked. "Who are you?"
"I'm Alex Mercer. There's a paper on the back wall you can read," he said. "It says more."
"Hmm…" Horny snorted through his gold nose ring and walked over to the wall. On watching the spots of fire appear and die out, Alex now realized why the floor was fire proof. After several minutes of waiting, Horny cracks a grin and turns to look at the Author. "I'm next, right?"
That was the plan.
"Good. Any ideas for me?" Horny asked and walked over to the Author.
Not just yet. I've been glancing at different things while working on actual work. If I can't pay bills, then I can't work on your story updates. It's the same with everything else.
"That sucks! Win the lottery?" Alex asked.
If that happened, the updates would be non-stop! But, that's wishful thinking.
"Could I give you gold?" Horny asked.
I wouldn't complain! But, it doesn't work like that from where I really come from. Me being here is just a temporary way. It's complicated to describe.
**The Author seems to shrug and sigh.**
"Well, for what it's worth, thanks for bringing me around. And I did have a mild idea for you," Horny said with a small grin. "We just got four guardians made of molten hot lava. We should have some fun with them."
I'm all ears.
**The Author starts to chuckle at what could be done. Horny gave a mild glare to Alex to back off before whispering softly. The Author is now highly amused.**
It would need to be a bit later, though. Saithe still needs to give birth.
"True. That would need to be done first," Horny nodded.
"What's this about?" Alex asked.
"Read my story arc," Horny shrugged. At the small scowl he was given, the red demon only grinned wickedly. "Fine. I'm leaving."
As he was getting ready to leave, Imperius walks into the new room to check it out. He had learned of it through Malthael and wanted to chance seeing it. At the sight of Horny, the golden Archangel of Valor gave off a sensation of shocked disbelief.
"Do you two know each other?" Alex asked.
"Not unless he's Diablo," Imperius said.
"No. My name is Horny. I'm a Horned Reaper. And you are?" he asked.
"I am Imperius. The Archangel of Valor, leader of the Angiris Council of the High Heavens," he replied smartly from his hollow helm. "What are you? Are you a demon?"
"I am. What of it?" Horny growled dangerously.
"Whoa! Guys, this is a place of neutrality…" Alex started. When they both glared at him, he sighed. "Then again, I'll just back down and sit over here..."
No fighting in the Break Room. You can hurl insults, but that's it. I will take matters into my own hands if I must. I am the Author. This room is my domain.
**The Author gives a small warning glance at both beings. When a sensation of being ignored is given, the Author begins to tap on the keyboard. Both angel and demon are now weightless.**
My room. My rules. Got it? No fighting.
"Oh, come on!" Horny snapped. At the glare given back, he growled, but he nodded.
"Fine! I'll tolerate the filth," Imperius muttered out irritably.
**The Author gives a small nod and lets gravity resume. Another warning glance is given before the Author goes back to typing.**
"Righteous asshole," Horny grunted out.
"Demon filth!" Imperius snorted out in reply. Alex cleared his throat to keep from laughing. He knew he was being ignored.
**The Author is still not amused and types a bit on the keyboard. Now Saithe and Anaurael appear respectively in the room. When they glanced around in wonder before pausing with surprise at each other, the Author waves a hand.**
Calm them down, please. Yes, you both are on opposite ends of the spectrum, but this is a place of neutrality. Respect this place, please. And, so you both know, I am the Author. My word is the law here. Keep them under control.
"Um…okay…" Anaurael blinked her topaz blue eyes. Her circlet held back her molten gold hair neatly as she took in the situation. She didn't know what was going on, but she did move straight to Imperius to let him pick her up and hug her to him with relief. "Don't slip here."
"But…he's filth…" he muttered.
"Not important," she smiled. He sighed and nodded.
"What did you do? Punch him?" Saithe asked. Her black eyes regarded her mate curiously.
"No. I want to!" Horny snorted. She chuckled and let him sink a hand into her black hair to calm himself down. Letting him get the sensation of sinking into the black depths of her gaze calmed him down even further. She flicked out her wings and patted his chest. She was in her armors and ignored the small stares she got. She was practically naked under the two piece armors, anyways, and her skull nipple piercings did show through easily.
"So, what is this place?" she asked.
"A place of boredom, since I can't fight here," he growled.
"Need the Combat Pit?" she crooned. He mused at that idea.
"Ugh…" Imperius grunted. Anaurael just pursed her lips together and kept a hand on his cheek under the helm. At a soft whisper from her, he nodded and took her to the back of the room to read the parchment. When Tyrael walked in, he paused at the sight of Horny. Shaking his head with a grimace, he moved to join Imperius and Anaurael. Alex was just enjoying everything.
"And who are you?" Saithe asked him.
"I'm Alex Mercer. I'm the one that started up this whole mess! And I don't plan to let it stop," he shrugged. "But, I try to help keep the peace."
"So…if I want to start up any trouble…" she mused and looked at him curiously. Horny snarled, pulled Saithe to his side and strode out with her. He wasnot going to let her get any ideas!
"Good. The filth left," Imperius mumbled.
"Hush, love," Anaurael smiled softly. "Maybe the Author has answers about our offspring?"
"Wouldn't hurt to ask," Tyrael nodded. Imperius now turned with her in his arms and strode over to where the Author was tapping away.
"I have a question for you," he said.
I may have an answer. What's your question?
**The Author turns to regard him with a small nod.**
"My offspring with her. Will there be any complications?" he asked.
Do you want complications?
"Well…no…"
Then there will be no complications. Don't worry over it.
"I see. Is there any more odd filth out there?" he asked now.
"Imperius!" Anaurael sighed.
"I have to know!" he said.
There are various races out there that can be mixed breeds. In this room, any and all can mingle and talk. This is a place of complete neutrality. You have to remember this.
"Such a thing is disgusting!" Imperius growled.
"Then you don't have to appear here," Tyrael said. "I will be tolerable of those that are tolerable of me. Anaurael doesn't have to be here, either."
"This place irritates me. But…I may come back. Later on," Imperius admitted. Anaurael smiled and got squeezed gently as he turned to carry her out. Tyrael only sighed and shrugged before following him. Alex just smirked to himself and watched several drones move around the place to tidy up. Letting himself slip back into the link, he lets time fly by.
**A day passes by, and Alex Mercer is nearly fully caught up on what is going on with various story arcs. He had his drones assisting in reading various things to help pass the time. A silent request is now sent to the Author by Hypnos, one of the Kings from Alex's brood. Musing at this, the Author grants the silent request to see what happens.**
"My Emperor," Hypnos said when he walked into the room to sit by him. He straightened out his outfit resembling that of a Steam Punk suit with dark red and gold designs. His glasses sat regally on his nose as he regarded Alex respectfully.
"Hypnos! What brings you here?" Alex asked.
"A meeting with a possible scientist from another place," he chuckled in his impossibly deep tone. "I am quite curious to see how it will turn out."
"Same here!" Alex grinned. At who walked in next, they both paused to study him.
**Who came in was Kiehl Hyre from the story arc: The Vessel of Odin. He seemed quite puzzled on looking around and wondering why he got the sensation to be here.**
"Uh…what was that?" Kiehl blinked his dark blue eyes behind his glasses.
"Just the room introducing you. In a sense," Alex shrugged. "If I recall, you don't even show up until about eighty chapters or so in. I think…"
"What are you talking about?" he asked. Hypnos gestured to the back wall. Kiehl thought to himself before moving to study the parchment. His blue uniform with gold embellishments showed he was an official of high ranking. Until one noticed the slave collar around his neck with the gem filled, gold leash loop in the front of it.
"So…what's with the collar?" Hypnos asked.
"Hmm? Oh. I'm Sarine's slave. And her husband. No, I'm not changing it, since it's needed to help her. Apparently, if you've read my, ah, story, then you would be filled in on that," Kiehl muttered. "I just find it odd that I'm not going crazy over her."
I am aware of that. You don't have to worry about that happening here. I'm the Author, just so you know. You'll be fine.
"Oh! Well…thanks!" Kiehl chuckled and pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose. He moved a strand of shoulder-length silver-white hair away from his face and thought over what he was reading. To him, it was far-fetched. He wasn't sure what to make of it.
"I do have a question for you," Alex said.
"What's that?" Kiehl asked.
"You have one girl. And…a shit ton of guys…" he started. Kiehl rose up his hand.
"I know. And she kills every one of us with a sexual burnout with those sessions," Kiehl sighed. "If she couldn't do that, quite a few of us would be killing each other."
"But it's a gang bang every time!" he said.
"Over half of us with her are demons. Either with a mix of demon blood or pure blood. Demons like to fight. If they can't fight, they get bored. If they get bored, dangerous things can happen. I would much rather see them complaining of being unable to move from too much sex than hearing of something that happened because a demon was bored," Kiehl said calmly.
"That makes a lot of sense," Hypnos nodded and rose up to greet him. "My name is Hypnos. I understand that you're also a bit of a scientist."
"Biological engineer of sorts," Kiehl nodded.
"Excellent! I was wondering if I could test my knowledge against yours," he said.
"We can compare," Kiehl said. As the two of them walked off a bit to get into a deep discussion about genetics, Alex could only muse at what was going on. He wasn't one to get into conversations like that, but he glanced over at the door when another came in. The tall, lanky, green-haired man with blue eyes walked in calmly with a rather beautiful woman with honey-brown hair and tiger eye gemstone colored eyes on his arm. Her figure was easily up to par with Agatha's, if a touch more slender. Then it was who came in next behind her. A bunch of other men. A lot of them. A few of them had collars.
"Interesting!" the green-haired man said.
"Oh, How-How," she chuckled. "Kiehl said he would be here."
"He's over there," a tall, blond, muscular man with intricate armor of ravens in flight muttered and gestured to the back wall. His blue eyes with glowing red pupils took in the room calmly.
"Yes, we can see that, Doppy," another tall man in a black kimono studded with gems said. His white hair went down the length of his body to neatly hang an inch over the floor. Another man that seemed a touch more reserved was calmly taking in the room with storm-grey eyes. His hair was a dark blue in color and seemed to fall like a wavy cloak behind his back. At the way his chest was exposed in the bone-like armor, Alex found himself curious.
"It looks like you don't have your pregnancy here," a man with a massive blue hat with a tassel half torn said. "Is that bad?"
Do not worry. Her pregnancy will return when she leaves. It will be this way for all females that appear. I am the Author. Welcome to the Break Room. Please be neutral.
**The Author says this from the occupied computer and continues to tap away at the keyboard.**
"Hmm…" the reserved man thought aloud in a deep, yet quiet tone. But it was the massive red and blue floating demon that appeared next with the human skull for a head that Alex seemed to really pause at with fascination. The two, massive swords that seemed to smolder with fire and ice were also taken note of. It was quite apparent that he knew how to use them, too.
"Strange…" the hovering demon said.
"Tell me about it!" the green-haired man chuckled. "And who are you?"
"Me? Ah! I'm Alex Mercer. The one that started this whole mess," he said with a shrug from where he sat. "I take it that you're all with Kiehl?"
"Yep! He's like my twin. We can hear each other's thoughts. It's a blood bond thing," the green-haired man said. "I'm Howard Alt-Eisen. A Whitesmith."
"So, you can make things?" Alex asked.
If anything is made, it can only be kept and used here. It would be too out of place in other story arcs. Just letting you know.
"Aww! It would be so much fun, though!" Alex pouted.
"He reminds me of Seyren…" the reserved man smirked.
"Really? I don't think you should refer to him as Seyren! Not even he deserves that! Think, Eremes!" Howard scowled at him. Eremes shrugged and moved to lean against a wall.
"Ah, yeah. I read about Seyren. I am definitely not him," Alex nodded. "I remember to wipe my ass every time I have to. And I don't burn water. I have others cook for me that know what they're doing. I have better class than that guy."
"Okay. You're awesome," Doppy smirked and nodded.
"What do you think of this place, Sammy?" the girl asked with a smile.
"It's not too bad," the tall man in the kimono said. "But, Sarine, I must say. You haven't eaten yet. You may not show your pregnancy here, but even I know you need to eat."
"I'll get something for you, My Lady," a blond haired man with a collar said.
"Thank you, Errende," she chuckled. "Keltin, is there a good seat somewhere?"
"I'm sure of it," the man in the large hat said.
"From what I know, you're actually a dead guy, right?" Alex asked.
"In a manner of speaking," Keltin nodded and reverted to his Bongun self. Alex cracked a grin at that. "I'm not a demon, but I was given a little demon blood. And angel blood, too. All part of the process to be with her."
"There are angels out there that despise demons in full. Just have to warn you all," Alex said. "I met one of them. He was…not happy to learn of other demons around."
"Oh? How sad," Sarine frowned.
"What did he do?" Doppy asked.
"He would have picked a fight, but fighting isn't allowed. So…name calling was done," Alex chuckled. At this, Doppy mused to himself and walked over to the Author.
"A question for you. Since you seem to be the one in control," Doppy said.
You would be correct, Doppleganger. What question do you have?
**A touch of surprise is given on being called his full name. The Author waits patiently.**
"Can we…make an arena here? For those that want to fight?" he asked.
I would prefer not to, in all honesty. Granted, I could see about healing up whoever the loser is, but it could become a touch messy. I am not sure how it would work.
"You would think it would be allowed for some of us to vent some steam," Alex said.
IF things get bad enough, maybe. As for now, it is a clear 'no'. Such a thing is not needed.
"I'll work on it," Alex muttered softly. Doppy found himself grinning. Kiehl was soon seen coming back over with Hypnos, and they both shook hands.
"Thanks for the ideas! I'll have to test them," Kiehl chuckled.
"If you do manage to go through your intricate question deal, please ask the ones I have. You have them written down?" Hypnos asked.
"I do! Not sure when the next one will be, though. Those things put me through Hell," Kiehl admitted. "We'll see."
"That's fine," Hypnos nodded. "No rush at all."
At the sight of an undead man with red dread locks for hair and a gaping hole in his gut walking in, Sarine waved at him. "Ragged Zombie! You had to come over, too?"
"You know I did!" he chuckled.
"How…the fuck…?" Alex blinked at him.
"Ah, no thanks. I reserve such things for her," Ragged Zombie smirked. Hypnos barked out laughing now. "I'm a zombie. Yes, I have a hole in my gut. Anything else I'm obviously aware of?"
"Okay, you have to meet Hermes," Alex said. Hypnos was now in tears when the breeder male resembling a manga hentai star came into the room next.
"Well, this place isn't too bad," Hermes mused. "And you sort of look like me. Except for the eyes. Interesting!"
"You have a point," Sammy chuckled. His eyes were black. Hermes's eyes were steel grey. Other than Hermes having a darker tinge of white in his hair with facial differences, the rest almost matched up. They both had the same height and build.
"Is this a coincidence?" Alex asked.
You could say that it is. It was unintentional for them to appear the same.
**The Author chuckles at this and goes back to typing.**
"So, why was I called here?" Hermes asked.
"For him," Alex said and pointed at the zombie.
"I'm married. I don't need a date. Thanks," Ragged Zombie smiled. Howard hid his face in his hand to laugh in. Eremes and Doppy were snickering. Keltin just cleared his throat and took a deep breath in and out to remain calm. Kiehl ran a hand over his face. Sammy pursed his lips and knew what the poor guy was soon going to be in for.
"What?! I already have a mate! And I don't think he's my type, anyways," Hermes said. As the others hid their grins, he continued, "Besides, he's defective. He's falling apart."
"Well, that's not a bad thing," the zombie said. "Because if one particular part fell off, I can give it to Sarine to use whenever she wanted. If it's kept hard, then it's all good, right?"
"Ragged Zombie!" Sarine gasped and shook her head with laughter. "You talked about this before. It's something that isn't nice to think about."
"But he mentioned it!" Ragged Zombie said. Alex was dying. Hypnos couldn't breathe. Hermes was simply jaw-dropped in shock at the reply. The others there were simply laughing at everything.
"No! That's not fair!" Hermes said. "There's no possible way that it can be done!"
"Wanna test it?" the zombie asked. At the silence Hermes gave now, the zombie grinned.
"I think we should leave," Sarine said carefully and focused on breathing.
"We aren't done!" Hermes said.
"True. Should we…make a date to meet up?" the zombie smirked. When Hermes fell silent again, Doppy started to laugh. "Oh, don't pout! One day you'll win. Then you'll be happy!"
"Shut up," Hermes muttered. Alex couldn't talk. A dead man got the better of Hermes. Even as the large group finally left the room, the breeder male was glaring at Alex. "Let me know when he comes back. Okay? I need to introduce him to Dionysus."
"Okay…!" Hypnos managed to whisper out. Alex just made a 'thumbs up' sign. Even as Hypnos just barely managed to stand up to leave with Hermes, Alex was now reflecting that opening up that Fourth Wall was the best thing he ever did.
**More time elapses from the interesting meet up. Alex Mercer is starting to feel the boredom sink in once again. Looking over the different story arcs, he starts to wonder who else would appear.**
"I am really starting to hate that," Alex grumbled at the narration.
It happens for a reason. You were the one that started this. You have to put up with it.
"I know," he sighed. Then he saw Agatha walk in. He got up and moved to her side to hug her. "I missed ya. Yes, I know, I could go back to you…"
"Zeus, even you know that you lingering here can be a bit much. You have other duties to tend to, you know," she frowned. "Like me."
"Trust me. I know," he muttered and kissed her.
"And did Hermes really get his ass handed to him by a dead man?" she grinned. At his wide, wicked grin, she barked out laughter. She knew her son was not happy about that at all. He set her down in his lap at one of the tables and let her lean into him. "I want to meet one of these other girls. I was told that I would be able to make friends."
"Hey, Author! You have an idea?" Alex asked.
**The Author thinks and muses at a possible idea. Some typing on the keyboard soon has Saithe appear to stand in the room.**
"The Hell?! This is more annoying than the Keeper!" she growled and tossed her black hair aside. Agatha smiled and moved from Alex's lap to regard her.
"Hello! My name is Agatha," she said.
"Oh? I'm Saithe. Ah…what are you?" she asked.
"I'm supposed to be his antivirus, but the one who made me fucked up and got killed. Then I joined up with him and have an army of kids with him," Agatha beamed. "I love world conquest!"
"Same here! Tell me more," Saithe chuckled. She flicked her black, demon wings and twitched her tail as they moved to a table to gossip and chat. Alex grinned softly and glanced at the door to see another female walk in. This one appeared to be a succubus, but had a hedgehog-like face, long, white hair that covered over her body, and a set of legs that screamed to look and touch them. Even her armor wasn't that much from how the skeletal-like hands seemed to just barely hold in the bust. She glanced around with her glowing red eyes and twitched her silver colored tail. Her skin seemed to be lightly fuzzy from a fine fur, as well as a light blue in color, but it also made her a touch more attractive. Even the spiraled horns on her head added a touch of feminine class.
"What are you supposed to be?" Alex asked.
"I'm a succubus," the new female said with a throaty laugh. Her long wings now snapped out from under her hair, and she found herself confronted by Saithe.
"Same here! We should talk! I'm actually half Shadow Demon and half Harpy, but I can be the Siren, too, from my voice," Saithe grinned a lightly fanged grin. Agatha was quite happy at this.
"You have me curious! You can call me Cydaea," the succubus smiled and walked over with her in a set of thigh-high, lace up stiletto heels of a silvery blue color. "And who's he?"
"My husband," Agatha said. Cydaea nodded at this and sat down to join in the chatter. At the next one that walked in a few minutes later, Alex rose a brow.
"Well, this place is certainly interesting!" Lyndon said when he walked in. He was from the Diablo story arc, and his brown eyes immediately went to three gossiping women. He was covered in tough armor from head to toe, had his quivers at his sides and his Manticore crossbow strapped to his back. As much as he should be alarmed that they, clearly, weren't of normal human standards, they were all female. That suited him just fine. He always felt that he had to be the one to prove his masculinity. "And how are you lovely ladies doing today? My name is Lyndon. Scoundrel extraordinaire!"
"My mate would skewer you to a wall and bathe in your entrails," Saithe said with a gleeful giggle. "He's a demon, you see? He likes to kill whoever flirts with me. And I'd likely eat your heart as it's still fresh and pulsing from your body when he's done."
"You eat hearts, too?" Agatha beamed.
"Yes!" Saithe giggled.
"Remind me to introduce you to Hunter hearts later," Agatha smiled.
"I can do that," Saithe nodded. Lyndon clearly didn't like how they were ignoring him. He had to try and work his way back into the conversation.
"Ah. Interesting to know. And you? I mean, surely you're up for some, ah, idle conversation with the random guy, right? I even have some wine we can share," he said to Agatha.
"My husband is right over there. And, like me, he's not human," Agatha smiled. When her hair became a mass of tentacles, he seemed to pause. "And if you touch me, I'll simply rip you to pieces. He won't have to lift a finger to take care of you."
"Point taken! And you?" Lyndon asked. Then he noticed her face. And the glowing red eyes.
"Well, I've screwed far more interesting things," Cydaea mused. "Being a succubus and all…"
"Ah…" Lyndon paused.
"Tell me," Cydaea crooned out. "Do you know how to use your cock efficiently?"
"You have my word that I do!" he said.
"So, you've made a girl scream and moan out your name for hours and hours on end?" she asked in a rather bored tone. When he fell silent, she grinned a touch wickedly. "It's a shame. You already have my interest. Now, the question is this…"
"Oh, boy…" Alex grinned, and he watched her get up to circle him as though studying a piece of meat. Agatha and Saithe kept neutral looks the whole time.
"Can you put up with me? I'll give you what you want. But I always come with a price," she said in a rather seductive tone. When her hand came out to lightly caress his cheek, he seemed to grimace at the sultry purr she began to give.
"You know, would you look at the time…!" Lyndon started, but he found himself shoved against a wall by her. "You…like to play rough…?"
"I'll play as hard as I need to just to get the edge off," she grinned. "My name is Cydaea."
"Really?! Huh. There's another with your name that I know of. She's half spider, though," Lyndon said. At this, the succubus showed amusement.
"I'll have to track her down. Maybe. Until then, you're coming with me," she grinned.
Let him go, please. In the Break Room, it's a place of neutrality. I am the Author. Please respect my wishes.
"But…he started it!" Cydaea pouted. "It's only fair that I finish it!"
You know what? You're right. But, you can't leave with him. So, maybe…
**The Author taps a few keys for a room to appear along the right wall. A small sign would appear to show if it was occupied or unoccupied.**
"That works!" she beamed.
"Wait! Don't I get a say so?!" Lyndon pleaded as he got dragged along.
"Nope!" both Saithe and Agatha said together. Alex barked out laughter at this. As the two females now chatted happily as though nothing was wrong, they easily ignored the shouts and screams coming from the new room. Thirty minutes later, Cydaea walked out.
"It was just what I expected. Nothing special," she sighed and sat down with them. Saithe and Agatha looked at each other before busting up with laughter. "I mean, seriously! The moment he popped off, he was done! Ugh! Left me feeling completely unsatisfied!"
"What?!" Lyndon shouted from the room. Cydaea grinned wickedly now as he stormed out of the room wearing only his trousers, grabbed her hand and hauled her back in. "Round two!"
"So…you changed your mind and going to go all out like you bragged?" she asked as the door shut. The girls were dying with laughter now. Cydaea was officially their new best friend in deterring unwanted males. Even Alex was laughing hard at everything. It was an hour later when Cydaea came out again. At the shake of her head, the girls were cackling with glee.
"Still no go?" Alex asked.
"Oh, he got me. He just couldn't keep me there!" she sighed. Saithe shook her head as she snickered. Horny was all she ever needed.
"Alex, do you think Osiris could help?" Agatha asked.
"Well…he would know a bit more about toys. Possibly…" Alex mused. Cydaea now showed vast interest in this. "Vibrating cock rings. They always worked for you."
"Tell me about it!" Agatha snickered at him. "Speaking of which…"
"Ah, no. We're good for now," Alex said. "And that room is still occupied."
"Yeah, he'll be out for most of the day. As a succubus, I, ah…drained him a bit too much," Cydaea sighed. "But he told me he could handle it."
"Did he?" Saithe asked.
"Nope!" Cydaea grinned. That got them all laughing.
"I think I had best get going. Horny might be looking for me," Saithe sighed.
"Horny?" Cydaea asked.
"My mate," she said with a shrug. The succubus nodded and watched her leave. When she gave a side-long glance at the room that Lyndon was still in, she smirked and got up.
"I think I can torture him a little more," Cydaea mused. Agatha laughed softly and watched her leave to shut the door. Then she looked at Alex, and he was at her side to pull her close.
"I suppose I can spend a little quality time with you," he smiled.
"A little?" she rose a brow at him.
"Fine. A couple hours," he grunted and kissed her passionately as he left with her. "I'll be back in a bit, Author."
I know you will!
**The Author chuckled and goes back to typing on the keyboard.**
**Quite a bit of time had passed. The Author worked hard and just finished getting the next chapter set up for the Dungeon Keeper fiction, The Alliance. Sighing and leaning back against the chair, the room soon gained the Dark Angel, Orphek, as a visitor.**
"Hrm. I was urged to come here," the Dark Angel said. "I was hunting down an artifact, but was prompted here. Oh. Maybe you can help me?"
Possibly. I have yet to create the proper way for you to approach the one you need to find, but I did start out the first paragraph. I'm the Author. Read the parchment along the back wall, please.
**Orphek paused, flicked his black wings and moved to do just that. On learning what this room was all about now, he was highly amused.**
"Does she know of this place?" Orphek asked.
Yes, she does. Don't worry. You'll find something to impress her, but it will get you no closer to her. Horny will not allow it.
"I know that," Orphek sighed and walked over. "I just…I earned my place fairly to be her champion! Is there no way for me to reclaim this?!"
Well, I know you earned it. But her new guardians do not see you fit to help. You need to sleep, eat and you can get wounded. They are immune to such needs and issues. But, maybe you can find an artifact that can help you overcome this.
"If you can help me out, it would be appreciated," he nodded. He watched the Author nod back, and he left soon after with a bit of relief.
**Several hours pass and Alex Mercer walks back in with Agatha on his arm. She seemed to have a glow from everything he did to her, and he had a rather smug look on his face. On glancing at the door that held the spare room, it was empty. Chuckling now, he settles with her at a table.**
"I missed that," Agatha sighed and pressed into him.
"I know," he smiled and kissed her softly. "Anyways, did I miss anything?"
A character from another storyline did appear.
"Damn! I wanted to meet all of them!" he growled. At Agatha's look, he sighed. "Fine. I'm sure I'll meet up with the one I missed."
It was Orphek from The Alliance. You're fine.
"Oh! Yeah, I would have liked to have met up with him. Anyways, I'm not too worried," he said. Then he blinked when Malthael stalked into the room. Agatha was completely surprised at this. Malthael simply glanced over at them from his hooded form, didn't detect any form of demon blood in them and moved to where the Author was.
"Am I next?" he droned out.
That was the plan.
"Good. Have you…agreed…to what we spoke of before?" he asked now.
It's a possibility. I'll work on it the moment I am able.
"Good to know," he nodded. He glanced over at the new one that walked into the room.
**It was Slade from the Teen Titan fan fiction, The Ancient Curse. He was quite curious of the place now after hearing of it from odd sources. He had to check out The Break Room for himself.**
"What…was that…?" Slade blinked his single eye.
"Just the room introducing you. You can ignore it," Alex said. "I'm Alex Mercer. Nice to meet you. Read the thing on the back wall."
"What a way to do a greeting!" Agatha smirked at him. Slade blinked at her and looked over at Malthael. The two of them could have been twins in attitude, dark attire and stature. The only difference was that Malthael had a set of misted wings and was three feet taller. And he was much, much older.
"Are you a demon?" Malthael asked.
"Hardly," Slade muttered. "I am a human."
"So…you have demon filth in you?" Malthael mused.
He comes from a place where demons and angels did not merge. He is not a demon or holds any form of demon blood. Slade, good to see you! I am the Author.
"Ah…okay…" Slade said. Malthael glanced over at the Author and seemed to nod. He would be tolerable to this one. Slade now moved to study the wall in question. After a few minutes, he turned and went straight to the Author's workstation. "I want a chance."
A chance at what?
"To get close to Ambrosia," he said.
Even you know that it cannot happen. She's too fully protected.
"Ambrosia?" Malthael asked.
"The main female in my storyline. If it's called that," Slade shrugged.
"You should read up on it. It's…interesting," Alex said. Malthael paused and was pointed towards a computer. Thinking on this, he now moved to sit down and read a bit. A drone was able to assist to bring up the story in question for him.
**Another walks in, and it is Imperael from An Angelic Dilemma. He was looking for Malthael, and he glances about from his hooded form curiously.**
"What was that?" Imperael asked. Slade is simply staring with disbelief at the sheer size of this angel. Even Alex and Agatha were taken by surprise.
That was the room greeting you. I am the Author. Malthael is reading up on some new events. You can feel free to join him. Also, please read the document on the back wall. It will explain a few things, and it will make a bit more sense.
"Ah. Very well," Imperael nodded.
"What are you?" Slade asked.
"I am Imperael, an Archangel of the High Heavens. And what are you?" Imperael asked evenly. His massive, two-handed grandfather sword could easily be reached for.
He is not a demon. So don't worry about that.
"Granted. He is not…" Malthael agreed. Imperael now showed complete neutrality and moved to read the text on the back wall. Alex was now wondering if his drone, Robin, could get up to that height and size. Even Agatha was musing at the possibility.
"I believe that I, also, need to research," Slade said lightly.
You can, but it can only be done here. Feel free to take your time.
"Of course," Slade nodded and moved to settle at another computer. He was able to navigate it easily and glean what he could.
"You are simply enjoying this, aren't you?" Agatha muttered to her mate.
"You better fucking believe it," Alex grinned at her.
"So, what exactly are the two of you?" Imperael asked when he walked over to them after reading the wall. "I am guessing that neither of you are what you appear to be."
"Nope! I'm a viral mutation. So is she. She was supposed to be the one to kill me off. But, eh, long story short, the one who made her fucked up and got killed for it," Alex shrugged.
"Ah…" Imperael seemed to grimace at the language. "It would be interesting to test your strength on the fields of battle."
"As in…to spar with me?" Alex mused.
"Correct," Imperael nodded.
No.
"But…but…!" Alex sputtered.
I refuse to allow that.
"But you can reverse the damage!" he argued. Imperael now glanced over at the Author and walked over to whisper. At the wary look given, Imperael whispered again. At the grimace on the Author's face, Alex said, "Come on! You know you want to!"
There is to be one rule. None can hold any grudges. No matter who wins.
"I can agree to that!" Alex beamed.
"Done," Imperael nodded. Malthael now looked over with amusement. Even Slade was interested in watching this.
**A new door opens on the South side of the room. It resembles a wood and steel door with various rough planks of uneven sizes to show it was for combat. On the other side of this door is a dirt ground with seating for spectators. A spot for the Author to appear and monitor everything was also set up, but may be used on a random occasion. Imperael now moves for the door, and Alex soon joins him.**
"Can we watch?" Agatha asked.
You can, but I may not be present to see what all happens.
"That's fine," she chuckled and moved to watch her mate fight. Slade and Malthael were quick to see what happened. Thirty minutes later, they all came back in.
"You cheated!" Alex growled.
"I did not. You left an opening for yourself when you dodged past me. I punched you in the face. You fell down," Imperael chuckled. Agatha was just sighing and chuckling at the same time.
"Glad you don't have spikes on that fist," Alex muttered. He had already healed up from a good steak. Now Imperael found himself thinking on that idea.
"Maybe…Haedrig could help…?" Malthael asked Imperael.
"That's not a bad idea," Imperael laughed softly. Slade was simply amazed at the fight he saw. It almost reminded him of the elementals.
"You know…" Slade said. "How about…fighting the elements?"
"Hmm?" Imperael asked.
"Where…my story is, you see, elements come to life," he explained.
"I'll need to read up on that," Imperael said. "All in due time. I need to get back up to Heaven."
"As do I," Malthael nodded. Then he looked over at Alex and said, "Better luck next time."
"Not funny!" Alex growled. Malthael seemed to laugh softly and left with Imperael. Agatha was pursing her lips closed. "And you're a bitch!"
"And what do you plan to do about it?" she grinned wickedly. He looked at her. Then he looked at the vacant room along the west wall. He threw her over his shoulder and darted for it. Slade saw this and seemed to shake his head as he left. The Author was, once again, alone to work on the insane amount of typing that needed to be done.
**A few more hours pass for Alex and Agatha to emerge from the chamber they were in.**
"Shut up!" Alex scowls at the room and flips it off. Agatha found herself laughing at him. "It's annoying! Okay, yeah, I get it. It's part of the room. But…really?"
"Who broke the Fourth Wall?" she smirked. He rolled his eyes at her, but pulled her into his lap, anyways, when he sat down. When Malthael walked in, they were ignored.
"Author!" Malthael barked out.
I am here.
**The Author looks over calmly from the computer.**
"I thought a certain dream was supposed to happen in that last chapter. Why didn't it happen?" he asked and walked over to talk further.
I tried to fit it in, but it wouldn't work.
"Not even lube?" Agatha asked. Then she grinned at Alex's groan.
Clever! But, no. I may be able to do something with the next chapter. Give it time. Okay?
"I really wanted it to happen," Malthael sighed.
I know you did. I did, too. It just didn't work. I'll do what I can. The holiday season work is finally done. I may have more time to get things rolling in the upcoming weeks.
"Very well," Malthael relented. He flicked his misted wings and left.
"I find it funny," Alex started up. "That he wants a dream of something to happen."
It deals with Urzael, a former lieutenant of his. He wanted Anaurael to dream up something about him. I'm just not really sure of what.
"A meeting?" Agatha asked. "Oh! A love triangle?"
I honestly don't know. I want to avoid that. But, sometimes it happens, anyways. I'll just have to see what comes up.
**The Author shrugs and goes back to typing on the keyboard. At who entered next, it had both Alex and Agatha a touch amused. A rather chilling aura was felt from the pale blue-skinned man that walked in. His ice-blue hair seemed a touch mussed up from the wind, but that was a normal look for him. Eyes the color of dark blue ice took in the room with a curious nature. His staff of wood and ice was on his back as he looked around the room.**
"Um…interesting…" the man blinked.
"That's the room. It's annoying. I'm Alex Mercer, and this Agatha, my wife. You're in the Break Room. I caused the mess. The explanation is on the back wall," he said and pointed to the parchment. "Feel free to relax. If you want."
"Ah. Feel free to call me Jack," he chuckled. He moved to read over the parchment silently.
"So, what are you?" Agatha asked.
"I believe the question is who am I?" he smiled lightly.
Of course, I know who you are. I'm the Author. Feel free to ask me any questions.
"Oh! Of course," Jack nodded. When he noticed how his chilling nature wasn't coating over anything as it normally would, he asked, "So…why isn't this place becoming a block of ice?"
I keep that from happening.
"Ah!" he nodded again with understanding. "From what I see here, eh, I'm next?"
For an update, yes. That's the plan.
"Good to know!" he chuckled. "I do have a question, though."
And that is?
"Are you really going to…um…" he thought of how to say it. Finally, he bent down and whispered. At this, the Author looked at him.
Would you complain if it didn't happen?
"Not really. But…how is it supposed to work? I mean, I'm supposed to keep track of a family line, right? So, if another part of me is out there…"
Ah. Well…how about this…?
**The Author now whispers softly to Jack. The cold entity gave a complete look of horror.**
"No! Don't do that!" he growled. "I'd rather have it fail, then. I don't want her…to hurt."
Well…you see…
**The Author whispers again softly. Jack is not happy.**
"Okay, what do I have to do in order to change your mind?" he asked. "I don't want that to happen, either. Just work with me! Please?"
"What's going on?" Alex asked. Jack sighed and moved to mumble into his ear. Now Alex was surprised. Agatha was also in a slight bit of shock at this news. She was sitting in his lap and easily heard everything. He looked at the Author and said, "That's harsh! Don't do it."
You think so?
"Yeah. There has to be another way. Raiding parties, I understand. He's already got a good scouting thing going. The village he's in is always protected. Here's what I think," Alex said and got up to whisper to the Author. Agatha had easily moved for him and settled in the chair he abandoned.
Hmm. That could work. All right. I'll see how it goes.
"Thank you. I'd rather not be a father if you're going to do something horrid. I wouldn't think that it would be fair to her. I did enough to her," Jack said. "I played one little joke. One joke! And it turned into a lifetime of this."
"Regret?" Agatha asked.
"Not really," Jack said with a tight smile. "More like a better understanding of moral justice."
"Interesting way to place it," Alex chuckled.
"You would think so," Jack sighed. "Anyways, I think I'll head out."
"Of course. Nice meeting you," he nodded. They shook hands, and he blinked when his hand froze over. Jack grimaced.
"Sorry!" he muttered.
"Don't worry. I'm not human," Alex smirked and moved into the kitchen to thaw out his limb. "I'm a viral mutation. I'll be fine in a bit."
"Really? Huh! I should have asked what you were. Hmm?" Jack blinked at who came in next.
**It was Kiehl from The Vessel of Odin. He was looking for something specifically for Sarine.**
"Kiehl! What brings you here?" Alex grinned and made sure his hand was functioning again. The heat of stove helped him out.
"Ah, not much, really. Sarine wants an exquisite dish. I figured I'd let Charles, the one that loves cooking, to come here, but he's busy right now," Kiehl sighed. "The triplets she's having are very demanding! It's almost impossible to sate them."
"What does she need? I'm Jack, by the way," he said with a small nod.
"Oh? Hello! I'm Kiehl. Well, she needs blood, raw meat, cold, hot and spicy foods. In a way," he seemed to shrug. Jack thought and went into the kitchen. "An ice cream was being made for her, but I'm trying to see what else can work."
"I have an idea," Jack mused. He began to touch small bits of meat to freeze them over. "I need this chopped up. Any way to do that?"
"We have a blender," a drone said and took the frozen meat. Jack watched it get processed and set onto a plate. Now he rolled small pieces into small links.
"Season these with hot spices, keep them cold and dip them into various sauces. Think of them as small sausages that are made to be kept cold," Jack smiled. "And, since she needs them raw, there is no need to cook them. You can cook them in various flavors to enhance the meat for others and serve them up as appetizers. If you wanted to go that route."
"That…is genius…" Kiehl blinked. A small recipe was written down and handed over. It was taken, and now the small platter was going to be delivered to Sarine's personal chef and husband.
"How did you learn that?" Agatha asked.
"Jenna always tries to do intricate things for different suppers. This was the most inventive thing she did yet," Jack chuckled. "But, I need to head out."
"Come back anytime!" Alex nodded with a wave. After the cold being left, he looked at Agatha. "Well, what do you think we can do now?"
"I have an idea," she smiled and watched a drone bring over a puzzle.
"Okay," he nodded and settled at a long table to help her put it together to pass the time.
**Several hours pass by easily this way. Another enters the Break Room to see what it is all about. It appears to be another hedgehog-like creature in all black with a chalk-grey, mouthless muzzle and reptilian green eyes. A cloak is on his shoulders, and it swayed neatly with his form as he walked in. The figure was commonly seen with the Sonic the Hedgehog story arcs.**
"Okay. That was different," the figure muttered.
"Oh. So, are you another of those…talking animal things?" Alex asked from where he sat with Agatha. At the glare given, he chuckled and shrugged. "Just read what's on the back wall."
"Why?" the figure asked.
"Because it teaches you some new things," Alex said sarcastically. "By the way, I'm known as Alex Mercer. This is my wife, Agatha."
"Hello!" she said cheerfully.
"I'm not saying my name," the figure seemed to growl and moved to the back wall. On reading it, the figure now turned to regard the Author quizzically.
Hello, Mephiles. Yes, I know who you are. Nice to see you!
"So…you're this…Author?" he asked.
That I am.
**The Author nods and goes back to typing away on the keyboard. During this time, Malthael came back in and flicks his misted wings.**
Yes, you're next. I'll see what I can do.
"Good. You know why I am here," Malthael snorted. Then he gave a side-long glance to Mephiles. "Are you a demon?"
"Yes," Mephiles nodded.
"Filth…" Malthael seemed to smirk. At this, Mephiles tensed. Alex now got up and began to make a bowl of popcorn. Agatha pursed her lips closed to keep from laughing.
"What?!" Mephiles growled.
"You heard me correctly," Malthael droned out. "All demons are filth."
"And what are you, then?" Mephiles bristled.
"An Archangel. Was one long ago. In a sense…I still am. And I have been culling filth like you for a vast millennia," he grunted and peered down at him silently from his empty hood.
**They both look over when another shadow form appears. It was Shade from the Dungeon Keeper story arc. He had heard quite a few rumors of this place and decided to visit.**
"Now this place is unexpected," Shade chuckled. He flexed his massive chest, let his large, bat-like wings flick out and let his stark, black hair give the sensation of tumbling down his form like a shaggy lion's mane. His skin was as dark as the shadows around him, but one could tell that he was definitely humanoid in shape and form. At the sight of Malthael, he nodded. "Hello. My name is Shade. I'm a Shadow Demon."
"Really? So am I," Mephiles mused.
"Oh? Huh. At first, I thought you were an animal that was used for strange experimental purposes," Shade thought aloud. Mephiles narrowed his reptilian green eyes. Alex managed to suppress his laugh with Agatha. "Quite a few alchemical reactions could do such a thing, that I can recall."
"Well, I am no such thing!" Mephiles muttered.
"More filth…" Malthael muttered out and now moved to leave the room.
"What?" Shade asked.
"You heard me correctly," Malthael said, flicked his misted wings and left the room.
"That was an angel that hates demons. Quite a few of them exist," Alex chuckled.
"If that's the case, I'll make sure to stick around to fight one," Shade muttered.
**The Author just sighed and continued to type and work. Then a blink is given with a small laugh.**
It looks like we got a review! Hmm. Stan Lee? I'll have to see what that guy is all about.
**The Author now makes plans to do some research to attempt to contact this character. Alex Mercer gets curious and walks over to see what's going on.**
"So…what's this all about?" he asked.
I had made a suggestion at the beginning of this to post up a review, or to message me, if a certain character would like to be seen here. As much as reviews are nice, it helps add a bit of diversity for us here. It gives me a bit more to work with.
"Even if the reviews are crap?" Alex asked.
Well, it comes with chance of posting things up.
"You know," Alex sighed. "I'd give my own two cents about reviews. The only problem is that my take on reviews can be pretty harsh. It's an opinion. Really. That's all it is. Everyone fucking has opinions. Assumptions are the ones I really hate. But, in all brutal honesty, it's bullshit. Now, a bit of advice is one thing. I can understand that. Someone puts they like what they see. Good! I like that, too. Everyone does. Eventually, you do see that one review that can make everyone stop and stare. Like a train wreck. Then it will be up to whoever is reading to decide if they do or don't want to take a look. They always give a golden rule. Don't judge a book by its cover, right? Same aspect here. But…what more is there for me to say?"
"Are we being ignored?" Mephiles muttered out.
"Possibly," Shade chuckled. Agatha rose up smoothly and moved to Alex's side to get squeezed.
I can understand where you're coming from.
**The Author seems to shrug.**
Personally, I like knowing that people enjoy what I put up. If they point out small errors, even better! I can go back and fix it up. Yeah, I do cringe at the possibility of a bad review, but what more is there to say? I just keep typing.
**Malthael suddenly walks back in with a bit of a stern determination. He ignores Shade and Mephiles completely as he moves to the Author.**
"I responded to one such…review…in my own way. About words being said. And answered in one way. By simply stating…that I don't care," Malthael said with a small smirk. "Do you recall?"
I actually do! And you're right. Even though it was set up to make it seem as though you were talking about Imperius at the time, you are quite correct.
"I was speaking of him, too. I honestly don't care about what he says," Malthael nodded with a small shrug. When Shade began to stalk over to him, Malthael simply flicked his misted wings and glanced at him. "What do you want, filth?"
"I should fight you!" Shade growled.
"There's an arena now," Alex said and gestured to the wooden door.
"Not worth my time. Nor my effort," Malthael droned out and simply left. Shade was livid.
"We should both attack him next time," Mephiles muttered.
"An ambush attack would be interesting," Agatha chuckled.
"And he shows no malice to you?" Shade asked.
"We're not demons," Alex grinned. Mephiles rolled his eyes. "But, you both have me wondering. Maybe the two of you could test each other's strengths."
The two demons glanced at each other and then the wooden arena door. They moved for it. Alex and Agatha grinned at each other, grabbed their bowl of popcorn and moved to watch the fight.
**Ten minutes go by with the Author typing and working on the keyboard. When the group came back in, Mephiles appeared to be very pissed off.**
"That doesn't help!" Mephiles scowled at the room.
"You almost had me, but shadow against shadow isn't very effective. I simply know how to place my shadows better. I do admit that your shadow shield is quite unique, though! I wouldn't have thought about using shadows to make a barrier to block out light for best effect," Shade admitted. "My shadows cannot tolerate being around light for too long."
"I know there are different variations of shadows. This simply proves it," Mephiles nodded.
"I wonder if it's possible to strengthen shadows. I'm sure it could be done with enough focus," Shade mused aloud. "I'll have to test it."
"If I can do it, I'm sure you could, too," Mephiles nodded. As a fellow Shadow Demon, he didn't mind talking cordially of such things.
"I'll test it. I need to get back, though," Shade said. Mephiles only nodded again and watched him leave. A smirk was given to Alex and Agatha as he left. When he was gone, Alex could only chuckle at an amusing thought.
"Hmm?" Agatha smiled.
"Oh, just thinking we need a hamster wheel of some sort in here…" Alex grinned wickedly. That got her laughing hard and shaking her head.
**The Author looks over with a raised brow, laughs a touch and goes back to typing.**
"So, what should we do now?" she smiled.
"Another puzzle?" he asked. She beamed at him and starts to do just that.
