Chapter 3: Kingdom of Despair
10:37 A.M Day One
Amusement Park
Ferris Wheel
"Come on! What are you waiting for? Let's go!" Annabelle exclaimed as she stomped her feet in place, before jogging towards a walkway that connected to a large black and white Ferris Wheel.
Haruto cleared his throat. "Young lady there is no reason to run, if you fall you could scrape your knee or worse!" He called out only to realize his warning had fallen on deaf ears, as the energetic child continued up the walkway.
"She's quiet a bundle of energy isn't she?" Tiana asked with fond expression, as she watched the girl skipping in the distance. "It's hard to believe that's she an Ultimate like the rest of us. Though I suppose child prodigies are notiriously excentric. Still she's handling this better than I would have expected."
The Parental Figure offered the curvy blonde a reassuring expression. "Well genius or not, she's still a child. There's a good chance that the carnage we witnessed hasn't registered in her mind. For that I'm eternally thankful. A child deserves every right to appreciate their youth free of such terrible things." He mused in an almost somber manner.
The Ultimate Dominatrix offered the blue haired teen an apraising look. "That's true Haruto. I must admit I'm happy someone like you is here. It's not the first time I've looked out for someone younger than me, but you're definitely the expert."
"I wouldn't short change yourself Miss Blake. I recall Annabelle recounting your heroism. I believe that anyone can be a role model." The tall teen said as he slowly began rolling his sleeves up.
"That is very kind of you to say, and you can just call me Tiana. We're not in a situation where I would demand formality." She said with a playful smile as she toyed with the locket around her neck. "We really should catch up to Anna though. Otherwise she will leave us behind."
Haruto blinked a moment. "Yes of course you're right Mi...Tiana" he corrected before shaking his head slightly. "I can't believe we're actually going to get on another attraction in this park, after what happened earlier." He said with a look of disbelief as he and Tiana climbed the walkway.
The Dominatrix offered a weak chuckle. "Well someone has to ensure that Annabelle stays out of trouble right?"
"Yes and it might just prove to be a fulltime job." The boy smiled slightly as they climbed the stairs, before seeing the petite Investigator practically bouncing in place several feet away from the loading ramp.
"Jeez what took you both so long? Were you making kissy face down there?" The precocius girl asked as she rocked back and forth on her feet.
Tiana and Haruto shared a look, before the former cleared her throat. "Annabelle you shouldn't ask people such bold questions."
"She's right you know? It's important that you learn how to read a situation." The Parental Figure added as he crossed his arms.
"Oh but that's not any fun! Besides with my job it's important to be willing to ask any question. You never know what might be important." She said before offering a wink. "I know I might be young, but you don't have to baby me alright? I'm an Ultimate just like you guys." she said as she planted her hands on her hips, before raising her little chin.
The Dominatrix offered a weak smile. "I'm sorry I know I swear we're not trying to coddle you, it's just with this sick game we want to make sure you're alright."
"What Tiana is saying is we're afraid that if someone does consider violence that they may go after you. Neither of us intend for that to happen, so it's important that you try to avoid running off on your own." Haruto said as he knelt down so that he was at her level. "I swear I'm not trying to treat you like a child. If anything I want everyone to heed that same advice. Do you think you can see our side at least a little bit?"
Annabelle huffed slightly as she puffed her cheeks. "Yeah okies. I'll be more careful and try to not wander off. But in exchange, you both have to promise to not baby me alright? I'll have you know that I'm the Ultimate Foresnic Investigator for a reason! I'll solve this mystery too, just watch me!" She exclaimed with an infecious amount of energy.
"Alright Annabelle we'll try to avoid being overbearing. Though I get the sense it's in both of our natures." Tiana mused thoughtfully as she playfully elbowed the boy next to her. "We'll try though right Haruto?"
The boy ran a hand through his messy blue hair. "Yeah I'll try to tone it down as much as I can. If I slip I hope you won't hold it against me."
The short statured blonde offered the pair a radiant smile, before holding her thumb up. "Kay that's all I had to hear. Now come on. I bet you can see the whole park from up there." She said as she grasped a hand from both of them, before pulling them forwards.
The Domantrix's eyes crinkled slightly. "Then what are we waiting on? We're right behind you."
11:08 A.M Day One
Amusement Park
Kurokumo's Flapjacks
Laris sat with a quiet look of contemplation on his delicate face. His gaze flitted around the restaurant. For the most part it seemed like a typical restaurant you'd expect to see in large Amusement Park. However the waiters were more of the gray Kuma bears that seemed far less emotive that Kurokuma. Where as the others sat in the booth, the boy sat in a chair that had been pulled next to it.
"Say what you will about the rest of this sick game, but dang these animatronics can make some awesome pancakes eh?!" Patrick grinned wildly as he sat with a large plate of pancakes stacked in front of him. He generously poured maple syrup all over the fluffy treats as he stared hungrily at the food.
"Mm they sure do smell good!" Shiho exclaimed jubiantly as she rubbed her palms together. "Oh my mouth is already wattering. A bunch of carbs and a good run will do me some good!" She exclaimed as she pumped her fists into the air, before she began scarfing her food down with gusto.
The Hockery Player grinned as he swallowed what was in his mouth, before gesturing over at the Paralympic Athelete. "Eh it's Sigmund right? You want some of this bacon? I doubt the rest of us are going to be able to finish it."
The Amputee visibly paled a moment, before offering a polite smile. "No that's quite alright. You see I'm a vegetarian and I'm quite strict about it."
"Woah really?" Shiho said with her mouth full, before swallowing. She had a sticky splotch of syrup on her cheek still. "More power to you! I don't know what I would do without a little protein in my life!" she said as she nodded her head empathically.
"Y-You've got something on your.." Kanade stammered weakly as she pushed a napkin forward towards the other girl before falling silent once more.
The blind girl tilted her head. "Huh I've got what now?"
"Heh I think you've got more syrup on your face then in your mouth." Patrick chortled as chomped at a piece of bacon.
The bob haired girl offered an indifferent shrug. "Oh that happens all the time. Least it's not as embarassing as when I forget to put on a shirt in the morning."
The Hockey Player choked a moment as his eyes went wide. "Uhh well I wouldn't complain about that. You do whatever makes you comfortable."
"Simmer down Patrick. Remember we do have a little girl among us. We should try to set a good example." The Paralympic Athlete mused as his gaze flitted between Laris and Kanaede.
The pair had hardly said a word since their arrival.
"How is everyone holding up? I can't help but notice neither of you have had much to say." Sigmund said as he rested his remaining elbow against the table.
The Ultimate Composer seemed to tense visibly. "I-I forgive me. I just don't handle socializing v-very well and I hate heights. I would have never gotten on the coaster willingly." She stuttered horribly as she rubbed at her forerarm as she stared at her untouched plate. "I'm sorry for being a burden, I-I just keep thinking that I will be the first victim. I'm not very strong, and someone will take advantage of that." She said as her hands trembled visibly.
"M'lady you can rest assured that I will do everything in my power to prevent that." Laris said before clearing his throat. "Though I should apologize for my reckless actions earlier. My behavior was uncalled for. It was impulsive and put you all in danger." He said as he stared down at his dented helmet that rested in his lap.
"Aww don't be so hard on yourself kay? I think you were super cool!" Shiho said earnestly as a smile flitted across her face.
Patrick chuckled slightly as he stabbed his fork into a pancake. "Yeah don't go putting that all yourself eh? I mean Kaizoku and I were right with ya. Besides how were we supposed to know Kurokuma had a freaking army of rejects?"
"If anything it's actually a good thing you all did that. Because in that way we have a better idea of what we're dealing with." Sigmund mused as he picked up a strawberry, before popping it into his mouth.
The Knight allowed for a small smile to tease his lips. "I am humbled by your kind words, at the very least no one else was injured in that exchange." He mused as his covered digits drummed along his helmet.
The Hockey Player grinned. "Yeah because your hard head saved the damn day. Seriously if you hadn't taken that shot, someone would have probably been pushing up daisies eh?"
Kanade fumbled with her hands as she slowly snuck a glance at the Knight. "Sir Laris? Y-You can sit in the booth too if you want. I'm sure it's more comfortable." She managed in soft shaky voice.
"I appreciate the sentiment M'lady. Though unfortunately I doubt my armor would allow me to fit comfortably. I do appreciate your offer however." The blonde said with polite bow of his head.
"O-Oh of course. Whatever you want." The Composer responded in a meek voice as her gaze turned downcast once more.
Sigmun raised a single brow. "You could always simply remove your armor? I can't imagine that it's very comfortable. Especially this time of year."
For a brief moment a look of nervouness flitted across the Knight's face. "No that's quite alright. Save a few exceptions, I have sworn to bear this armor without rest. It is a sign of my oath to Novoselic, even if my homeland is merely a shell of it's former glory." His soft voice trailed off as his blue eyes appeared conflicted.
"Woah that's some serious commitment. No way I'd wear this jersey all the time." Patrick chuckled as he leaned back in his chair. "Gotta say though, I didn't know Knights even existed anymore. I thought that kind of thing was like ancient history."
"Admittedly you're not mistaken. Even in Novoselic it was a dying tradition, and yet was my dream be like a Knight of old. To protect Lady Sonia and the rest of the Nevermind Family." Laris said in a nostalgic manner as he rested his hands into his lap.
"I'm sorry for your loss. I-I heard about what happened during the broadcast." Kanade managed in quiet manner.
The Ultimate Knight shut his eyes. "The sense of irony isn't lost upon me. I so desperately sought to be able to stand at her side as her protector, but by the time I was acknowledged for that role it was already too late. I couldn't protect her or the rest of the family from the tragedy. I simply survived when I should have perished."
"Okay enough serious talk at the table! You should eat! I haven't heard you pick up your utsenils at all!" Shiho said as she pressed a fork forward, as she mushed a glob of syrup covered pancakes the boy's cheek. "Yummy huh?" She asked with an oblivious smile.
Patrick did his best not to snort as Sigmund cleared his throat. Even the Composer raised a hand to stiffle a giggle.
"Shiho you missed the mark ever so slightly." The Paralmypic Athlete offered with a slight smile.
The blind girl's mouth fumbled a moment. "Damn I really thought I was on the mark. I didn't poke you in the eye did I. Sorry Laris!" She said before offering an impish smile.
A moment of silence followed before the boy allowed a sliver of a smile to grace his regal features. "No it's quite alright Miss Jiyu. It seems we now match." he mused as he eyed the syrup still staining her cheek.
12:32 P.M Day One
Amusement Park
Go Kart Track
"Yeoowza!" Naruhiko howled as he rocketed around the race course in neon green kart.
The boy had a wild grin on his face as he rounded the corner, before zipping towards the finish line.
"Moron doesn't he realize what we're dealing with? How can he be playing around at a time like this?" Otto scoffed as he folded his arms.
The Ultimate Sailor eyed the other boy dubiously. "Yarr weren't ye the one in denial earlier? Perhaps ye shouldn't be so quick to judge."
A look of embarassment filled the Race Car driver's face. "Of course I was in denial! Stuff like this doesn't happen. I thought those broadcasts were just some sick hoax. I never actually believed they were real. Just some sick executive scoring ratings off a trashy series."
"Well landluber it's time for ye to face the facts. Like it or not, we're in this game for keeps. Best we avoid doing something stupid, less we want to be keehauled." Kaizoku responded as he tapped his foot against the ground.
"Jesus would you knock off the pirate talk? You're starting to give me a headache." Otto groused as he smoothed his uniform over. "And I wasn't the one who tried to attack the teddy bear."
The Sailor sighed as he rubbed the back of his neck. "We didn't know what we were dealing with man. We won't make that mistake again. Though in the meantime you really have to work on your attitude."
"Attitude? My name is Otto Von Skylar. I am proud of my name, why should I change a damn thing about myself?" The shorter boy scowled deeply.
"Because you and Patrick almost already got into a fight, and you're making yourself unlikable. Your family and standing don't mean a damn to any of us. However if you don't work on your attitude, you're going to make yourself a target if things get worse." Kaizoku said in a deadpan tone.
Otto's brow furrowed. "Is that a threat? Are you saying you're going to do something?"
The Ultimate Sailor shook his head. "Argh you really are a thick skulled one." He said as he slipped back into his pirate persona. "Look I'm tryin to keep ye from a watery grave. We all need to become close maties if we're to weather the storm ahead of us."
"Play nice huh? Fine whatever. If that's what I have to do to survive, then I'll agree." The Driver said as he offered an indifferent shrug of his shoulders. "Though don't expect me to become buddies with any of you. All I care about is surviving."
Kaizoku groaned as he shook his head. "Whatever ye say. I suppose it tis a start."
"So what the fuck are you two still doing standing there?" A voice called out as Naruhiko emerged with a ear splitting grin. "Let's turn the volume up to twelve and burn some rubber. I'm fucking stoked after that first go round. Come on big shot why don't you show me how it's done!" The Punk Muscian said as he tossed a helmet at Otto.
The Race Car Driver rolled his eyes. "As if I would even bother. I've got better things to do than to play with go karts. It would be different if these were real cars."
"Well if you're afraid to fucking lose, I mean that's cool too man. I mean I know I'm pretty great." Naruhiko said with a cocky grin.
"Lose? Tch not on your life. One lap and you'll see the true loser." Otto snapped as he suddenly stalked towards the track with a confident expression.
The Sailor offered the other boy a grin. "Hook line and sinker matie!" He said as he held a hand up.
The Musician offered a wink, before clapping the other boy's hand. "Just had to go for the pride. Now come on blackbeard let's fucking beat the shit out of his ego."
"Yarr I believe it's called the pride before the fall. Let's see just how good he is." Kaizoku chortled as he and Naruhiko headed back towards the track.
1:21 P.M Day One
Amusement Park
First Aid Building
Situated in the midst of the Amusement Park district rested a small structure, that was meant to serve as a medical building.
The contents of the building were rather simplistic. There were several medical beds and chairs littered around the one room building.
It was obvious that the room was intended for more superficial injuries, rather than surgeries or anything life threatening.
There were several first aid kits, a cooler with blood tranfusions, and plenty of sanitary cloths. There was a tiny medical cabinet pushed against the far wall. In addition the room was filled with several sinks and a show to rinse off blood or grime. However beyond that the room was rather barren.
"There we go Utano. I believe that should prove sufficient for now. Just be more careful alright? I'd rather not see any scars on you." The Plastic Surgeon said as he gently patted the boy's leg, before rising to his feet.
The Poet had to fight down a blush. "I-I'll be careful I promise. Thank you for looking after me." he said with a tender smile as he stared down at the bandage on his leg.
Soo Yeong offered a warm smile as his visible eye softened. "You're quite welcome. I'm not use to performing first aid, however I'm pleased my knowhow can be of some use. It could prove very essential should someone actually consider acting in response to this bizarre game."
"I mean no one would actually do that right? I mean as horrible as everything has been. This park itself seems to have a little bit of everything. I just hope everyone will cooperate, enough innocent lives have already been snuffed out. I just want us to focus on life." The Love Guru said as she leaned against the far wall with a worried expression.
"Life much like a waning candle has been throughly snuffed out for many today. How we all survived was merely a stroke of fate and perhaps mere luck." The Poet murmurred with a downtrodden look on his face.
The tall girl shook her head vehemently. "Oh please don't say that! We have to try and remain positive. I-I don't want to think about all that death." She said as her lips pulled into a strained line.
"Relax. It's Churi right? There's no sense in letting our insecurities plague us right now. Whether it was fate or mere chance, we're very much alive. We should make the most of that opportunity." The Surgeon said as he gazed between the pair. "Perhaps we should see about lunch before we check out the Resort Distict?" He suggested with a kind smile.
Utano offered a half-hearted smile. "I don't have much of an appetite right now, but maybe doing something will keep my mind off of things."
"Exactly that's the spirit!" The Guru said as she perked up, before patting her cheeks. "We just have to focus on looking forward!" She said enthusticially.
"Splendid. I'm pleased to note we're on the same page." Soo said as he pulled a neatly folded map out of his pocket. "I found this near the entrance, it seems to be a map. Shall we then?" He suggested as he unfolded the parchment.
"Yes of course. We'll follow your lead. I'd follow you anywhere." Utano said the last part under his breath as his gaze lingered on the taller boy.
2:44 P.M Day One
Resort District
First Floor
Hotel (Lobby)
The Ultimate Investigative Journalist walked into the hotel lobby with a sandwich propped on a plate. He raised an eyebrow as he stared at the Ultimate Shogi Player who sat with her legs crossed, reading some sort of book. "Guess I'm not the only loner in this place." He muttered as he slid into a leather chair.
Tomoko didn't so much as raise her gaze, however her brow knitted together in irritation. "Well I was savoring the peace and quiet, before you disrupted it." She said cooly, before her nose twitched. "Ugh and what in the world are you eating? I can smell the hot sauce from here." She said as she turned a page.
"Turkey sandwich on rye, with a truckload of hot sauce. It sounds bollocks, but it's actually pretty good." Lachalan mused as he slouched in the chair, before taking a bite of it.
"That sounds absolutely horrendous." The fair skinned girl remarked quietly. "Is there a reason why you're here? Or do you just enjoy polluting my air with your disgusting food?" She asked in a cold manner.
The boy licked his thumb as he eyed a moment. "You could say I'm trying to get the scoop on everyone. I'm not much of a people person myself, but what you don't know in this place could very well be your death."
The Shogi Player rolled her eyes. "Well don't expect me to divulge my secrets. If you're looking for that you came to the wrong person."
"Heh yeah I didn't expect I'd get much out of you. Actually I thought I'd pick your brain about something else though. I just got here a few minutes ago, what do you know about this hotel? Have you done any exploring so far?" The boy asked as he arched a single brow.
The girl frowned as she shut her book, before her eyes flitted up to regard him. "What makes you think I know anything more than you do?"
Lachlan offered a dry chuckle as he took another bite of his sandwich, before sighing contently. "I watched you head straight towards this district. I'm willing to bet you've already explored all five floors of this hotel. Look just tell me what you found, and I'll be on my way."
"Well if it will get you out of my presence quicker, then I will entertain the notion." Tomoko said as she gestured around with one of her hands. "Clearly you're rather familiar with the first floor. There's a Pantry,Kitchen,Dining Hall, A Maid's quarters, and this lounge." She took a small breath, before extending her finger towards the ceiling. "There is a spiraling staircase that leads to the next floor as well as an elevator that runs to the top of the building. The Second Floor contains a Spa with a Massage Parlor, A Pool, A Sauna, and gender divided changing rooms. There's also a rather large Gym as well. The third floor consists of a large Casino that takes up the entirety of the floor itself. It seems those strange animatronics are in charge of the games. The fourth and fifth floors are solely the residential suites. There doesn't seem to be any sort of distinction as to where we're allowed to stay. So I took a key from the front desk in this lobby and placed what little belongings I had there. Though I should say that there are more than enough suites. As a final note there is a rooftop entrance, though I noted caution tape over the door. So I elected to heed the advice."
The Journalist whistled softly. "You have been busy. That does save me some footwork." He mused as he wiped some hot sauce off of his cheek.
Tomoko offered a small scoff. "Excellent well since I've saited your curosity, will you leave me be? I see no point in fraternzation. It only dulls the wits and in a killing game that can prove fatal."
"Works for me anyways. I've got work to do and people usually just get in my way." He said as he uncermonoiusly tossed his plate in the floor, before shoving his hands into his pockets.
"Are you truly that slovenly?! Clean up after yourself, and stop acting like a caveman." The girl chidded irritably.
The dirty blonde offered a bemused expression. "Sorry princess but I don't take orders from anyone other than my editor. Besides let the schmuck behind this clean up after us." He said as he offered an indifferent shrug before walking towards the stairs.
Gisei offered a barely audible huff, before returing her attention to the book she'd been reading.
3:13 P.M Day One
Resort District
Fifth Floor
Hotel (Suite 3)
The hotel suites were all opulent and overly extravagant with large rugs and tapestries. With each of the rooms consisting of king sized beds, sitting areas, large wardrobes and closets. In addition they contained large full bathrooms with marble flooring. Beyond that each of the rooms had generous sized balconies that either faced out towards the park or towards the center of the hotel, depending on what side of the hall the room was located. The odd numbered rooms seemed to face outward while the even faced inward.
Chloe Bellemort the Ultimate Fashion Designer sat on her bed across from Seikatsu Tabi, The Ultimate Tarotlogist.
The later of which had a stack of tarot cards resting between the two of them.
"You'll forgive me if I'm skeptical. I don't put much stock into otherwordly things." Chloe murrmured as she shifted her shapely legs into a cross legged position.
"You question the purpose of your life do you not? Its value? Then join me and let's try to examine what the tarot says about your arcana. The arcana is the means through which all is revealed. It shows the direction of your life, your choices, your maturity. Are you a Devil who gives in to temptation, or one who controls thyself with Temperance? A nurturing Empress, or a deceitful Moon? See your arcana, read it, and understand how you act with your life and what can be done about it. Fate's Wheel of Fortune can spin you a good hand or a bad hand in your life, but ultimately it's all on you after your hand is dealt." Seikatsu said as she shuffled the deck of cards slowly. "I believe your skepticism will be changed briefly as I the Wheel of Fortune, show you the past, present, and future pertaining to your life."
The dark haired beauty sighed dramatically. "Very well do as you please. We have time to spend before Kuroma arrives
. Though I can think of more amusing ways to spend my time." She mused thoughtfully as her eyes swept across the voluptous girl in front of her. "You suffer from multiple personalities don't you? I've noticed that your demeanor changes very abruptly."
"Indeed I suppose there is wisdom to your words. Twenty One in total. All of which are derived for the Arcana." She said as she closed her eyes, as she continued to shuffle the cards.
"Twenty One personalties? I've never heard of anyone suffering with that many personalities at once." Chloe admitted as she rested a hand on her chin.
The Tarotologist nodded her head faintly. "Yes it is my burden to bear, but one day perhaps the many will become one." She offered softly as she ceased her shuffling. "For now though such thoughts are senseless. Let us delve into who you are." She said as she revealed the first card, before setting onto the bedspread. "Interesting. Upright Death. Your past has been filled with so much death, that the countless faces have begun to blur together. It's as if their voices have become one cacuphony of sounds."
"That isn't uncommon. Many people have had childhoods filled with death. Not every life is as easy." Chloe said dissmissively as she noted the other girl's eyes were still shut. 'It must be some trick. Somehow she knows what the cards are without looking.'
"Behold your present." Seikatsu breathed as she set another card next to the first. "Upright Seven of Swords. Deception. You are trying with difficulity to keep something hidden, to get away with something. You are not being honest with yourself or others."
Suddenly without another word the Fashion Designer snapped her hand, before grasping the deck of cards. "Enough. You've had your fun. Let's just stop here." she said curtly
The girl in front of her opened her eyes, before a somber expression filled her face. "As you wish. You need not fear, my readings are always kept private. Though I suggest you take some time to evaluate yourself. I know what the next card was without looking." She said as she stood up, before collecting her personal effects.
"Not that I put any stock in this, but do you believe your readings can be wrong? That you can defy what is shown?" Chloe asked as she watched the girl retreating towards the door.
The Ultimate Tarotologist offered a slight smile. "The Tarot only shows the path your life is one. Much like a highway, you alone must decide if you wish to take another route. No one else can do that for you." She said as she opened the door, before closing it promptly behind her.
The Fashion Designer fell quiet as she strode across the bedroom, before walking out onto the balcony. She stared off into the distance with disturbed expression as she toyed with her butterfly earring. 'The question is will I know what the right route is?'
4:56 P.M Day One
Restort District
Third Floor
Hotel (Casino)
The hotel's Casino was massive and overly extravagant.
Rows of tables could be seen with various cards games with Kuma animatronics working them.
In addition there were roulettes, slot machines, and various other games of chance littering the gaudy golden room. The floor itself was lined with a royal purple carpet that stretched across the entire Casino.
"Beck I'm really not sure about this place. M-Maybe we should just go find a room or something?" Dolly suggested nervously as she clutched her puppet against her frail chest.
"Dolls what'ya going on about now? We can make a little scratch here and unwind. Just leave it to me, I'm in my element." The puppet responded as it's head tilted up to look at her.
The doll like girl nodded her head weakly. "Well if you think it'll be alright. I'm just worried about someone trying to hurt us."
Becky scoffed. "Stop being such a nitwit! Ain't no one gonna fuck with you, when I'm around. So just relax and stop acting so jumpy. Why don't we start with the slot machines first?"
"O-Oh well if you think that's the best idea." The Ventriloquist responded before noticing a girl hunched over on the ground.
Dolly recognized her as the Ultimate Mathmatician, her hands were fumbling against the carpet.
"No! How did this happen? Where did they fall?" Maddie murmurred as her fingers continued to brush along the carpet. She registered voices and movement, as she slowly lifted her chin before being met with a blurry outline.
"Blind as a fucking bat aren't ya? Jeez take em will ya? You're distracting me."
Maddison reached out before feeling her glasses being pressed into her hand. "Oh thank you! I tripped and my glasses fell off." she explained as she fidgeted with them a moment, before sliding the accessories up the bridge of her nose. She squinted a moment as she seemed to stare at the other girl. "Um who were you again? Forgive me I'm terrible with names, my brain only holds onto numbers." She laughed nervously.
"That's alright no one remembers me anyway. Everyone is the same." Dolly admitted in a downtrodden manner, before holding her puppet up. "This is Becky, and my name is Dolly."
The Mathmatician offered a weak smile. "Please don't take any offense by it, I'm horrible with everyone's name. I will try to do better though."
"You betta! You make dolls upset and I'll snap your glasses in two!" Becky said as she waved her little hand towards the girl.
"Oh so you're the voice I heard. I-I thought I heard a second person. I didn't realize it was your doll." Maddie said softly as she brushed herself off. "I'm not sure I've introduced myself, my name is Maddison Maddox, the Ultimate Mathmatician. Though you can just call me Maddie."
The Ultimave Ventriloquist bowed her head. "Oh well it's nice to meet you. I hope you don't mind, but I usually let Becky do most of the talking. She's a lot more interesting then I am."
"My dame isn't wrong. She's about as interesting as watching paint fucking dry. Though I just had a brilliant idea. You're good with numbers ain't ya?" Becky said as the puppet seemed to stare at the Mathmatician.
Maddie seemed conflicted as to whether to look at the puppet or Dolly. She eventually settled between looking between both of them. "Yes doing calculations of any degree is my strong suite. Numbers are the one thing that are absolute!" she said in assured manner.
"Great. Think you can solve numbers quick like? I need to know if you're a shark or a minnow. You catch my drift?" Becky asked with a sharp stare.
"O-Oh I'm not really sure about that. Though I'm really fast. I've been called a human calculator before." The girl admitted.
The Puppet began rubbing her hands together. "Now that's what I wanted to hear. You're about to make us a lot of money."
"M-Money? But how?" Maddison asked with a confused expression.
"Simple four eyes. You're gonna help us count cards." The puppet said in a hushed whisper.
The Mathmatician offered a worried look. "But isn't that cheating? Won't we get in trouble?"
"Heh you can't get in trouble if you don't get caught. That's the name of this game aint it?" The puppet said as she wiggled her eyes.
20 Survivors Remain
*AN* And with that another chapter is complete. As you guys can probably tell, I'm trying to spend time with FTE's to flesh out these characters. I want to avoid murdering people without having some build up first. Call it a new way of approaching things! xD
Review Section:
FezzikTheMighty
Well the fortunate thing is I have the chance in these exploration chapters to flesh everyone out a bit more.
BouncingFish
Secretly I love doing this to myself haha. It's the only explanation for it.
pokemansuperallstar
Thanks for pointing out that issue to me. I think I fixed it! Also I plan on fleshing these kids out more before murdering them senselessly ;)
Fee5H
Fortunately chapters like this are great ways for me to explore those kind of interactions.
Solrac XD
Well that scene was a definite nod to Aoi. However I think it was meant to show Chloe's flirtious side versus Aoi's bubbly headed nature lol.
Trust Me I'm Me
*Sharpening my axe with Annabelle's name on it* Oh did you say something? xD Not but seriously I love how quickly you've become invested in these kiddos. It really does make me smile.
bellatrixshine
Ask and you shall receive.
SootyThunder
Yes but despite that people still fall into denial at times. I mean wouldn't you rather believe it wasn't real then to face the idea you were in a killing game?
doomqwer
Pupupu well I'm glad you think so!
Jayden Illusion Doe
You nailed it right on the head with the Detective Conan remark. She's definitely inspired by that though she's a lot more precocious and child like at times.
StoryProducer214
Hey I really appreciate the breakdown and your thoughts. I hope you enjoyed reading it thus far.
FezzikTheMighty
I think that's a bit oversimplified however I realize everyone likes finding a character that reminds them of someone else.
TheBlueCzar
Well its one of the reasons I had Kaizoku admit to being aware he wasn't a real pirate. I can only do so much of it myself, before I either get tired or start laughing uncontrollably.
The Kobold Necromancer
You know my big plan for Annabelle is for her to seem for the most part like a normal child. For people to wonder how she is an ultimate, until the first big incident requiring her abilities comes about.
Hail2U
I swear that was a total coincidence, however it's a funny one!
Vul
Well I'm glad to hear that. My plan is to make each of them memorable before I start brutally murdering them ;)
Wintersmith23
Stop worrying so much about this. It's just a common trope used in most media. You can imagine they're speaking in Japanese or English whatever you prefer.
TheRoseShadow21
Haha I love how infectious Annabelle has become.
Blazerxz
Yeah fortunatelly the updates will be a lot more regular from here on out!
ThePLOThand
Well with the way I switch POV it really gives multiple characters a chance to have a more starring role in the narrative xD
PettyPunk
Yeah I was quite proud of the Captain touch! I was reading over his profile again when I had that idea!
Natsukumo1000
Haha I love how the characters immediately are compared to someone else. I think they're much more than just clones of other characters.
Jeptwin
Rarely is anything that clear with me ;)