**~Another chapter is made! If anyone has only read the first chapter once, please re-read it as more content has been added throughout the days. That's how the updating works. When I hit a certain amount of words or pages, a new chapter is created. At this rate, 25 pages were done! A good hint to see if a chapter was updated is to look at the word count. ~_^ Enjoy!~**
**Alex Mercer was enjoying the puzzle with Agatha as he relaxed. Everything seemed to go smoothly. That was until a new character walked in with a curious air about him. It was Detective Dupin from the story arc: A Puzzling Proposal. He wore his top hat neatly with his grey suit, and looked about casually with his golden ball-topped cane. His straight, brown hair lined with grey was neatly kept at just to his shoulders, and his blue eyes glanced around the room to take everything in.**
"Ah…what, pray tell, was that?" he blinked.
"Just the room. Ignore it," Alex chuckled and shrugged. "I'm Alex Mercer. You're in the Break Room. Feel free to read the thing on the back wall."
"I'm Agatha. His wife," Agatha smiled and waved.
"Very good!" the detective chuckled and moved to read the parchment.
"Hey, Author, does he get updates?" Alex asked.
Nope! His story arc is complete. It doesn't get a lot of reads, though, but I kept it simple.
"Really?" Alex frowned. A laptop was brought over for him to silently read through the finished story. Then he blinked. Agatha was chuckling at it. "Okay. That's clever! You got your wife to make her own wedding ring?"
"She is as adept at puzzles as I am," Detective Dupin nodded. He had finished reading the parchment and was thinking over a few things.
"I find it very humorous as to how you got married," Agatha said.
"Oh, it caught both of us by surprise!" he admitted. "But, my son is doing quite well."
"You should have a continuation," Alex said.
If it had more reads, then it may be possible. Right now, it's fine where it is.
"I couldn't agree more," Dupin nodded.
"I'd like to see some of the puzzles she has to do," Agatha said. Dupin thought and walked over to the Author to whisper.
Okay, I can work with that.
**The Author tapped away on a keyboard to have a specialized computer appear with hidden object puzzle games loaded onto it. Agatha was now moved over to it with Alex to let her get familiar with the games. Within a few minutes, she was hooked completely.**
"I am going to demand to have one of these games wherever we go," Alex seemed to snicker.
I know it! If I'm undisturbed, I can have one done within three to four hours. They are very addictive. I have quite a few of them, myself.
"I can believe that!" Agatha managed to voice out. Detective Dupin walked over and seemed to chuckle at the game she was trying to solve.
"Ah! The Rue Morgue. I remember that case quite well," he sighed.
"Well, don't tell me how it ends," she said. He laughed at that.
"You have about six game chapters on this? Pretty cool!" Alex said.
"Indeed! Hmm. I think I need to get back to Maggie. I may return," he nodded, bowed elegantly and left promptly. Alex was simply amused by him. He seemed to come from an older time era. It made sense from the games that Agatha was playing.
"I wouldn't mind hanging out with him again," Alex said. "I can see Hypnos and Coeus appearing to talk to him, too."
"That would be a good thought," she chuckled. Now that they were both neatly involved in the puzzle game, time lapsed quickly.
**A few hours pass and the next one to walk in was a young woman from the mermaid story arcs of Ocean Dreams and Visions. She was wearing a two-piece bathing suit with elegant designs on it. She was also wearing jewelry based of gold, pearls, and diamonds all over her figure. She moved a piece of braided blond hair out of her face and blinked her deep blue eyes. She glanced around curiously and blinked when a drone was able to bring in a small tank containing her merman husband, Kilnak. Alex looked up with complete shock at this.**
"Ah…what…is this place…?" she blinked.
"I'm not sure, Nikki. I'm just…surprised that I can be wheeled around in a tank," Kilnak admitted. "Where are we?"
Hello! And welcome to The Break Room! I'm known as Author. It's good to see you both. Nichole, feel free to ask any questions. Same with you, Kilnak. For more clarification, please read the parchment on the back wall. And enjoy!
**The Author waves and goes back to typing on the keyboard.**
"Ah…I'm lost…" Kilnak blinked.
"Me, too! But, let's read what the letter says," Nichole said.
"Okay, Nikki," he agreed.
"What are you?" Alex had to ask.
"A merman. Why?" Kilnak asked.
"Oh! That is so cool!" Agatha beamed.
"A fishman?" Alex frowned.
"Are you a retarded monkey waiting for a piece of fruit?" Kilnak asked calmly. At that jibe, Alex busted up laughing like crazy. He already liked this guy!
"Sorry," Agatha sighed. "We are both viruses, you see."
"Viruses? Oh! So, he's a sick monkey," Kilnak mused. Alex was still laughing hard now. He didn't insult her, since she didn't call him a fish.
"Sometimes, I have to wonder," Agatha agreed. Nichole shook her head with a sigh. "But, he used to be human. I was genetically formed this way. It's…hard to explain."
"Ah. I'm sure I'll learn more," he seemed to shrug.
"I gotta admit…you're fucking awesome!" Alex snickered.
"I'd say the same about you, but you insulted me. Refrain from calling me what I usually eat and we'll be fine," Kilnak smirked. Alex now had an idea on how to get back at some troublesome breeder males. As Nichole and Kilnak read over the parchment, Alex called Hermes to come into the room.
"Is he here?!" Hermes asked when he stormed in. Then he saw Kilnak. "A fish? Man? What? Am I missing something here?"
"Oh, look, Nikki! Another sick, retarded monkey that likely doesn't know how to scratch his ass or peel a banana," Kilnak said and sighed sadly. "You have my sympathies."
"What?!" Hermes gaped. Alex was dying with Agatha.
"Well, you called me a fish. It's my right to insult back," Kilnak said with a shrug.
"Really, Kilnak?" Nichole sighed. He smiled at her and nodded. "He's a merman. He hates being called a fish. It's…a really big insult to his people."
"I see…" Hermes said and cleared his throat. "My Emperor, why do you bring me here for this?"
"Because…you deserve it…!" Alex managed to hiss out. Agatha couldn't help. She was busy drying her tears from laughter. Hermes thought and walked over to the Author to whisper in an ear.
Are you serious?
"Yes. Please?" Hermes asked.
**The Author sighs and taps on the keyboard to have Ragged Zombie appear. The undead man blinks at first. Then he saw Kilnak and waved in a friendly way.**
"Hello! I'm Ragged Zombie! I know of Obeaune. She's a mermaid and could easily relate with you. We have another, also, that's called Merman. Maybe you'll meet them in time," Ragged Zombie said. At the look Hermes gave him, the zombie said, "And hello to you, too! Are you here to kiss and make up with me after all this time?"
"Shut up!" Hermes growled. Kilnak cracked a grin at this.
"So, you're not surprised to see him?" Nichole asked the zombie.
"Nah! Where I come from, monsters resemble him, too. A bit differently, but it's not an issue to me. Why is it such a surprise? Oh! Wait. Yeah. Okay. Different story and stuff, huh?" the zombie frowned. "But, look at me! I have a hole in my gut, and the long-haired wonder over here tried to get the better of me. It was cute!"
"He called me a fish. So, I called him a sick monkey," Kilnak shrugged.
"Oh! I need to do that, too! But I'm an undead monkey," Ragged Zombie mused. Kilnak found himself grinning now. Nichole just shook her head and giggled. "Are you with him?"
"Yeah. I'm his wife," she nodded. "And pregnant."
"Congratulations!" the zombie beamed. "I'm with a girl, too, and she's also pregnant. Not from me, but with others. It's a touchy situation."
"Is it? Huh. Maybe I can read up on it," Kilnak nodded.
You can only do that here. Just so you know.
"That's fine. It gives me a reason to come back," Kilnak chuckled. "When do I get an update?"
I'm trying to find the time to do that. Work and such. Family came out and really took out a chunk of my time. I have a few story arcs that need to be updated. Yours is included in this.
"Got it. Hopefully not too long of a wait," he nodded.
"Damn it! I was hoping for the undead shit to insult him," Hermes scowled.
"Huh? Ah. Well, it's more fun to insult you," Ragged Zombie admitted. Alex and Agatha were struggling to remain composed. It wasn't working. "You remind me of Chickenshit. He's someone that tries to get the better of me all the time. Oh! I should give you a pet name!"
"Not needed!" Hermes said and thought to the link. When Dionysus appeared, Alex and Agatha were both cringing to remain composed. "Undead man. See?"
"Really? Oh! So he is," Dionysus blinked at Ragged Zombie. Then he saw Kilnak and did a double-take. "Um…"
"Just do us all a favor and keep your fucking mouth shut," Kilnak muttered out. At the incredulous look Dionysus gave him now, he said, "I'm a merman. Get used to it."
"Sorry. He's been insulted so much already," Nichole frowned and let Kilnak press his face into her side. "Everyone keeps calling him a fish. He really hates it."
"Oh. Okay, I can understand the scalding attitude now. I won't do that," Dionysus nodded.
"Okay," Kilnak said in a loud enough tone to be heard. He was letting Nichole comfort him. It was the only thing keeping him from releasing a sonar blast in anger.
"Who said this to you?" Ragged Zombie asked.
"Both of the sick monkeys in the room said this. The female is fine. But the two of them…" Kilnak mumbled out. Ragged Zombie now looked at Alex and Hermes with amusement.
"Hermes takes pride in calling himself the asshole of the group," Dionysus shrugged.
"Oh? Does this mean he takes up the asshole, too?" the zombie asked. Dionysus's jaw dropped. Hermes was just as speechless. Alex was now struggling to breathe. Kilnak found himself grinning wickedly as he hid his face. Nichole had to keep her mouth pursed shut. Agatha was whimpering from how hard she was laughing. "What? It's a very innocent question."
"No, it is not an innocent question!" Hermes grounded out. "And I have a wife!"
"Oh! Does she put on a strap on for you?" the zombie asked. Dionysus had to sit down and hold his gut from the laughter that came from him now.
"Fuck you!" Hermes scowled.
"Really?" the zombie beamed. At Hermes's look of shock, the undead man said, "I would, but I'm actually straight. So, I can't fulfill that bit for you. I'm sorry."
Dionysus was holding his head in his hands from laughing so hard. Alex and Agatha were panting and clinging to each other for support. Kilnak was now gleaning in every insult to use against any others that tried to insult him.
"I think we should go," Nichole whispered to him.
"No. Stay a bit longer," Kilnak whispered back. "I'm enjoying myself."
"Really?" she asked. At his wink, she sighed and shook her head.
I don't think I want Ragged Zombie to meet Greed. Or Lyndon.
"Who are these people?" the zombie asked now. Hermes was still trying to figure out a way to get back at the zombie. At the topic of others that have similar banters, he was also intrigued.
Oh, a couple other characters that have intricate ways of conversation like you.
"Intricate ways of conversation. I like that!" Ragged Zombie said with a grin. "If they come around, can you get me? I'd really like to meet them."
"Same here," Hermes said.
"Aw, you're just hoping for a cheap shot," the zombie smirked.
There is also a talking skull that seems to enjoy such conversation, too.
"Okay, you have to get me!" Ragged Zombie insisted. Alex pounded a fist on the table to show how much he was suffering from the laughter. Agatha was giving out her own show of suffering from laughing so much. Kilnak had his face pressed completely into Nichole's form. He had succumbed to the laughter, too. Nichole was simply floored at the bantering going on. She had no choice when the laughter spilled from her. It was just too much!
Donnie would also enjoy such talk.
"You're right!" the zombie said with a sharp nod. "We need to plan for it."
"Okay…I'm done…" Dionysus said and managed to stagger up to stand. "I'm gonna go…before all of this fully kills me…"
"Oh, come on!" Hermes scowled at him.
"No, no! I'm serious! This is just…epic!" Dionysus chuckled. "I never thought the day would come for the Manga reject to be brought to heel."
"Fuck off!" Hermes growled out. Ragged Zombie now took a sharp interest in this.
"Manga reject?" the zombie asked.
"He's a princess in male clothing!" Hermes snorted.
"Well, at least he looks good in his clothing," the zombie shrugged. Dionysus broke down into laughter again. As much the insult was jibed at him, it was too hilarious to properly react.
"What do you mean he looks good in his clothing? What about me?" Hermes asked.
"Do you really want me to answer that question?" the zombie asked. The breeder male went silent as Dionysus managed to stagger out of the room.
"Okay. I'm done," Kilnak chuckled. Nichole sighed and let the drone wheel the tank out with her. Plans to revisit were definitely being made.
"Remember! I want to know when those others appear!" Ragged Zombie demanded.
I know. It will be done.
"I want to be here, too," Hermes muttered.
"You're just a glutton for punishment, eh?" Ragged Zombie grinned and walked out of the room. Hermes grumbled and was out shortly after. Alex and Agatha were still trying to recover. It would take some time for them to catch their breath, and they decided to relax a bit in the spare bedroom. It was sorely needed after all the laughter that happened. Alex couldn't wait to see what else happened next.
**Time lapses and Alex is busy at a computer with Agatha to help pass the time.**
Alex, come here.
**The Author gestures to him. With a small blink, Alex Mercer walks over to see what is going on. The Author points at something. Now Alex is not happy.**
"Okay. First of all, I'm sure he's nice. But…no. I do not want to talk to that guy. I do not want to see that guy. He's too strong. He's too unstable. He has too many fucking viruses in his system. He has followers that Agatha detests. I don't even get how his creator claims that that guy is supposed to be my brother," Alex growled. "I don't have a brother. I never did. I have a sister. He calls himself Project Hades! I can understand that it would be interesting to do, but you're too fucking nice to him. If I had my way, I'd give him a solid piece of my mind."
It's just a side role play in the private chat. Give him a little credit.
"Fuck no! He's not listening to what you're advising! And you won't let me kill him!"
Okay. If I bring this guy in, and I revamp him a little...
"Fine. It's the only way. And if he pisses me off, I'm punching him in the face," Alex muttered. Agatha looked over and rolled her eyes from what he said in the link to her. She didn't really care for him, either. "I mean…it's a bit hard to even follow what the guy says half the time!"
I am aware. Trust me. I'm surprised that I manage, too. Give me a bit and I'll work on this.
"Short visit. Please," Alex muttered.
**The Author only nodded and began to type away on the keyboard. Who appeared through the double doors next was a large, blond haired, blue-eyed male. He appeared to be a fighter in dark clothing, and he walked in with a soft whistle at the room.**
"Finally decided to bring me in, brother?" he grinned.
"You're not my brother," Alex muttered. "I don't care what memories you say you have. I didn't bring you in, the Author did. As much as I was against it. And if Nick was here, that drone would be having you eat your own ass."
"Look…I know I fucked up…a lot…" he said.
"I can actually understand him. Amazing," Agatha smirked. Alex seemed to snicker to himself at that. The man looked over, and she gave a small wave. "Hello, Tyler. Nice to see you here."
"Same to you," he nodded respectfully.
"Dipshit," Alex growled and moved to stand over Agatha protectively. When Tyler tried to shadow move, he found that little talent blocked.
Sorry. I have to make you more viral based here. Shadow morphing is not a viral trait. Your claws and armor can stay. You cannot use any form of 'magic' here. Teleportation is not available to you, either. I will allow you to shape-shift with limitations. And, no, you are not stronger than Alex. You can be equal strength, but that's it.
"THANK YOU!" Alex said with complete exasperation.
"What?! You're fucking me over!" Tyler gaped.
I'm sorry, but I have no choice. Whatever happens elsewhere is fine. But in here, you have to be restricted. Get used to it.
Agatha was only nodding with approval at this. It made perfect sense to her. Alex was just sighing with relief that at least something was able to be salvaged for this guy.
"But…I have seven different viruses in me!" Tyler said.
Not here. You have two viruses. One to be almost like Alex. Another will allow you to shift your shape within limits. And your other followers do not exist. I'll allow you to sense ghosts like Orion, but that will be the most I can do. You are already a bit separated from their link. That will be fixed when you are here. You need to be more viral based in order to really work with Alex's plot.
"You drive a very hard bargain."
Take it or leave it. It's the most I'll do here.
"Will I still have the girl made for me?"
That's fine. You can still have her. On occasion, you can bring her here.
"All right. I give," he seemed to mope. Alex was already accepting these changes. He could work with them. But only in this place. "Um…can I still be your brother?"
"You can be related to me. But not my direct brother. We can be viral brothers. And don't call any of my kids your nephews or nieces. Just call them by their names. It actually pisses them off. They don't know you well enough to really claim you as any form of family. Treat them like other brothers and sisters for now. Got it?" Alex snorted. "And don't call Agatha your sister-in-law. That's just disrespectful to her and pisses me off."
"I'll do that here. Dunno about elsewhere," Tyler shrugged. Alex grunted and shook his head at that. He really wanted to kill him, but he left it alone. When the other left, Alex was still a bit moody.
"Author…" Alex mumbled out and walked over.
I know. But, I can solve the minor issues here. We will work that one on our terms in here.
"Can I chew him out here, too? In my own way?"
Yes. I can allow that.
"Excellent," Alex snickered. Now that he got approval to tell him off whenever he wanted, he felt much better. At this change in his mood, he walked over to Agatha to help her finish the puzzle game she was working on at the computer she was at.
**Time passes silently and the doors open to reveal Jericho and Ambrosia from the Teen Titan story arc: The Ancient Curse. The Fae Queen was seated comfortably in the hovering chair that Cyborg had made for her. Jericho kept his hand on the top of the chair as he helped guide it in.**
"Um…" Jericho blinked his deep green eyes.
"Robin did say that something like this existed now. Didn't he?" Ambrosia asked in a chiming, tinkling, bell-like tone. Her long ears easily held back her ultra-long hair of silver touched with gold. Unlike the others that came in, her pregnancy was still there from how she was seated.
"Okay. More LARPers…" Alex mused when he looked over and saw their regal clothing.
"Actually, I'm a Fae King. My wife, Ambrosia, is a Fae Queen," he said.
"Oh, that's right! I read about this. Well, I'm Alex Mercer. This is my wife, Agatha. Check out the back wall over there. It has information," Alex said and pointed at the parchment.
He's right! I'm the Author. Good to see you both! I'll be working on your story arc next.
**The Author waves and goes back to typing.**
"Okay," Jericho said and thought over a few things. Ambrosia patted his hand with a warm smile, and he helped lead her chair to the wall in question. When Robin came in to survey the room, Alex snickered. Robin gave a mild glare at him and went to join the other two.
"Oh! What place is this?" Starfire asked when she hovered in.
"Is that one of Tinker Bell's friends?" Alex muttered to Agatha.
"I have no clue," she shrugged. "Would that make the one that walked in known as Peter Pan?"
"You would think so," Alex grinned a touch wickedly. When Cyborg, Beast Boy and Raven walked in, Alex was only cringing. Agatha smiled with her own hidden form of amusement.
"Dude!" Beast Boy gaped.
"So…this is behind the Fourth Wall?" Raven mused. She chuckled at what her robe said, and she moved to where Robin was standing to read what was there.
"You could say that," Robin chuckled.
And done! Next chapter is up.
**The Author chuckles and now moves to start on the next story to be updated.**
"Hey, Author," Alex said and walked over quickly. "I have a question."
Yes?
"Okay, I know you don't want to say anything. But I have to know to back you up," Alex said and moved to whisper lightly. At the glare given, Alex said, "It's because of that."
He points to the screen, and the Author sighs.
Okay. I see your point. Fine.
**A roll of the eyes is given. Alex is pulled closer and softly whispered to. Alex's jaw drops. A bit more whispering is given, and Alex has to clear his throat. The Author smirks lightly.**
"I am impressed," Alex admitted. "I may inform a few here, but…"
Do not let the word spread to any others, if you can help it.
"Right," Alex agreed. "Only those that I know."
The Author nods and goes back to the keyboard. Agatha was completely surprised at what she learned in the link. She was also beaming with a form of hidden delight. The Titan crew were oblivious, but that was fine. After they learned everything, Cyborg came over. "Yo! Ah, Author! Um…can we get a gaming section in here? Ya know? It would help!"
This room is large enough. We do not need that.
"But…" Cyborg seemed to pout. Alex only smirked, but he sat with Agatha again to watch the room calmly. "You know you have to!"
**The Author only groans and types away at the keyboard. The room gains an octagonal room along the southwest side that is a full gaming center. Cyborg makes a bee-line for it with Beast Boy.**
"How amazing!" Starfire gasps and is quick to float over to watch them play. Raven chuckled a bit and walks over to the Author now.
Yes? You have a question for me?
"In a way. Um…well…" she actually seems a bit flustered. She leans down to whisper.
I don't think that would be wise. It would also not be possible. What is done should be enough. You would think!
"I know," she admitted. "I'm not complaining or anything…"
I would hope not. Anyways, I just updated your story arc here. Hmm?
**The Author looks over to see Jericho approaching.**
"I have a request," he said. Now he leans down to whisper. The Author actually finds it funny.
Okay. I can see about that. We have to get to that point, though.
"Then we have an agreement," Jericho grinned wickedly. He whispered to Raven, and she hid her face within Robe to laugh. Robin was quick to find out now. Even he was grinning.
"I think that would be a just form of punishment," Robin mused. "I like it!"
"What?" Ambrosia asked. She was now whispered to, and she gave out a tinkling laugh.
"Hey guys, it's time to go," Robin said to Cyborg and Beast Boy. At the pouts they gave, Robin whispered to them. Now they were dying with laughter.
"Okay!" Beast Boy said and wiped away a tear. "Author, type fast!"
No guarantees, but I'll do what I can!
"Good enough," Cyborg grinned. Starfire had overheard what was going on and frowned.
"Um…I find it sad," Starfire said.
"I know, but he brought it on himself," Robin reminded her. She sighed, nodded and let him lead her out of the room with the others. Alex now walked over when the room was empty.
"What was that about?" he asked.
Just a possible punishment for the loser of the testing.
"Oh! I get it! Cool. I'll read it when you post it," Alex grinned.
**He moved back to settle with Agatha and the new puzzle game she was working on. He was curious about this new punishment now. He'd be keeping an eye on the story arc to see what happens.**
**Time passes swiftly until a character from An Angelic Dilemma appears. It's the Necromancer, Zayl, and his skull companion, Humbert, is out and taking in the sights. He was told by Tyrael about the place and wanted to see it for himself.**
"Um, Zayl…" the skull started.
"Yes, yes. I heard it, too. We were warned," Zayl sighed. Alex was sitting by a table and casually looks over to wave with a small grin. This must be the talking skull he heard about.
"Hi! I'm Alex Mercer. Read the thing on the back wall," he said. He decided to be lazy today. Agatha wasn't with him right now, but it could change from what he said in the link.
"Must we?" Humbert asked.
"It explains what this place is," Alex said.
"I'll read it," Zayl nodded and walked over. At a glance at the Author typing on a keyboard, he seemed to blink. "And you are…?"
I'm the Author. Nice to see you, Zayl! The document on the back wall explains everything.
"Ah," Zayl nodded and now moved to read it. Humbert was actually quite amused. Now Zayl turned and walked over to the Author. "A question for you."
A possible answer.
**The Author nods and gestures to a chair nearby. Zayl takes it easily.**
"That really creeps me out," Humbert admitted.
"You're a talking skull. That alone creeps me out," Alex smirked.
"Blame Zayl!" the skull said cheerfully. "Ow!"
"Shut up," the Necromancer muttered after flicking the skull. "Anyways, Author, what is going on with these Soulstones now?"
Ahh. Well, that's a bit of a surprise.
"Come on! You can share it with us!" the skull begged.
But if I did, then you would have an advantage. I need to keep the suspense somewhere, right?
"No! Suspense is bad!" the skull insisted. "I know this!"
It's part of the plot. So, I can't say anything.
"You could tell me," Alex said.
No. Because then you'll tell them.
"Oh, wow. You read my mind," he rolled his eyes. A soft chuckle escapes the Author.
"Another question. Does 'that one' show up?" Zayl asked.
Why wouldn't 'that one' not show up at some point?
"Right," Zayl muttered. "I really hate suspense."
"Tell me about it," Alex sighed. On glancing at Agatha walking into the room now, Humbert had to give a soft whistle. "My mate. Fuck off."
"Ooh! Is that so?" Humbert asked. At how Agatha looked at the skull in a puzzled way, he said, "I'm Humbert! A talking skull! Something tells me that you like to keep others on their toes."
"Very perceptive of you," she chuckled. "Ah! I think Hermes wanted to meet a talking skull."
"So did that other dead guy, huh?" Alex grinned and pulled her into his lap.
"Dead guy? What?" Humbert asked. Zayl looked over at the Author.
**The Author sighs and types on the keyboard. Hermes was quick to appear. Ragged Zombie was next to appear right after him.**
"I'm back!" Ragged Zombie grinned. "And so are you!"
"Obviously," Hermes nodded. At the sight of the skull, Hermes thought. "I wonder if you can fit in the dead man's gut…"
"I'm sure I could! Don't know if I want to, though," Humbert said.
"I wouldn't advise it. Here's why," the zombie said. He pulled out one of his ribs and showed it covered in green goo. "This stuff gets on everything. And it can stain. Pretty smelly, too."
"I'll go with what you say," Humbert agreed.
"But, if you shoot fireballs or something…" the zombie mused.
"Nah. I belittle others with words of wisdom!" the skull chuckled.
"Really? So do I! Especially to those that deserve it," Ragged Zombie nodded.
"I can get along with you," the skull said. Zayl just rolled his eyes. "And who are you? The one that looks like a Wizard with white hair."
"I'm not this…person you speak of. My name is Hermes," the breeder male said. "I'm a viral mutation. It's a long story."
"He's my son," Agatha chuckled.
"He talks about his asshole a lot," Ragged Zombie nodded.
"Wait, what?!" Humbert asked. Zayl looked over with a puzzling look.
"I am known as an asshole, okay?" Hermes growled. Alex was hiding his face in his hands.
"And you like that?" Humbert asked.
"Someone has to do it," Hermes shrugged.
"Oh! Good point!" Humbert mused. Zayl sighed and shook his head.
"And who are you?" Ragged Zombie asked Zayl.
"My name is Zayl. I'm a Necromancer. I bring dead things back to life for a while to fight for me. Humbert here is my focus. He amplifies what I do," he said.
"So, he's a tool?" Hermes grinned.
"If I'm a tool, I'm likely bigger than you, anyways," Humbert said. Ragged Zombie busted up laughing at Hermes's facial reaction. The skull knew exactly what he was being referred to. "In both stature and attitude. I wear my badge with pride!"
Agatha and Alex were dying. The zombie was pounding a fist into a wall from laughing so hard. Hermes just couldn't believe that he simply couldn't win with dead things.
"Tell me," Hermes said mildly to Humbert. "If you're just something full of holes…"
"Why? Did you want to try me out first? I have to warn you, though! I bite hard," Humbert chuckled. Zayl had to restrain himself from dropping the skull. Hermes's jaw dropped again. The zombie was on the floor struggling for air. "Hey! You're already dead! Stop breathing!"
"It doesn't…work that way…with me…" the zombie panted. "Wow!"
**Who walked in next was the slave, Byorgue, from The Vessel of Odin. He was looking for Ragged Zombie and moved straight to him.**
"Hey! My Lady needs you. Go to her," Byorgue said with a small grunt. "And why are you on the ground? Did you get defeated?"
"With laughter!" Humbert said.
"Huh? Oh. You look like a Flaming Skull with no flames," Byorgue mused.
"Ah…a what?" Humbert asked.
"Another form of monster to us," Ragged Zombie chuckled and stood up. "Okay. Let's see what she wants. Hopefully nothing too bad…"
"Keltin's blood is involved," Byorgue grinned. "And she's craving chocolate."
"Ah…" the zombie paled.
"What's wrong?" Zayl asked.
"Sarine…thinks my blood…um…" he shivered.
"My Lady thinks his goo tastes like rich, dark chocolate. So, he's screwed in various ways," Byorgue grinned wickedly now. Hermes was simply stunned. Even Humbert was speechless.
"So, she gets you to shut up?" Alex grinned.
"Yes. Only she can do that feat," Ragged Zombie seemed to mope. When Sarine walked in with Kiehl and Howard, he cringed. "Ah…"
"Come with me. Now," she said with a small glare. "I'm done waiting for you."
"You'd better get going," Byorgue snickered. Then he paused at the tug she gave to his leash loop. At the smile she gave him, he shivered.
"How do you get him to shut up?" Hermes asked her. Sarine looked over with her tigers' eye gaze and chuckled. Then she simply reached up into the dead man's ribcage to feel his beating heart.
"I put his heart in my hand. Then I squeeze gently," she said with a wicked gleam in her eye. Kiehl was able to just barely keep himself composed. Howard was keeping his lips pursed together.
"His blood really tastes like chocolate to you?" Hermes blinked. Sarine withdrew her green goo-covered hand to show him. Then she simply licked her hand clean. Ragged Zombie was comatose. Howard was now dying with laughter at the way Hermes was speechless with shock.
"I got some goo, too!" Humbert said. "Ow!"
"Shut up!" Zayl scowled at him after smacking him upside the back of the cranial head.
"At some point, we should talk," Agatha said to Sarine.
"We should! We'll make plans," the tawny beauty nodded back.
"Hell, we should have an all-girls meeting!" Agatha mused. "You think so, Author?"
Possibly! I can see that happening at some point in the future.
"Awesome!" Agatha seemed to giggle with delight.
"Until then, I have other pressing matters," Sarine smiled and had her men follow her back out.
"I should probably check on Tyrael," Zayl sighed. "And not a word out of you!"
"You think I would tell anyone anything? Sheesh!" Humbert grunted. "Even I know better!"
Keep what you do here to just here and I'll see about letting you help out with the next chapter. Do we have a deal?
"Yes! Please, yes! I'll do it!" Humbert said. Zayl could only nod at this, and he soon walked out. Hermes was still growling and intended to see what he could do with Loki later on. Even as he left, Agatha and Alex were still snickering at his failure.
"Poor Hermes," Agatha sighed.
"Maybe he should meet Cydaea? Oh, wait. No. Dana would kill me," Alex sighed.
"But, maybe Cydaea should meet with Dana?" Agatha grinned. He grinned right back at her. It would likely be done later on.
**Time passes again and the Author is busy typing away at the keyboard as though everything was fine. Story plots are started up. Work is being done, too. Much is happening to try and get things moving along smoothly. That is until Malthael appeared with a sigh from the double entry doors. Alex and Agatha were working on a puzzle game when they glanced up from the sudden entry.**
Malthael? Can I help you?
"Yes. You can…" he said and moved to sit close by. "The dream that was done. Why did it turn out that way? Do you know why?"
I do not. Not even I can control how I type. The words just appear to me.
"I see."
I generate a basic plot of how the chapter is supposed to go. Then I work with it. Sometimes I think things out a day in advance to improve how it's going to look. There are quite a few times that not all I want to type actually makes it to the paper or text. If something happens in a later chapter, I may even go back to a prior chapter to fix it up so that it makes sense later.
"Can I…speak with you? Privately?" he asked.
**The Author nods and gestures for soft whispers. With the Author and Malthael talking in a way that they could not be overheard, Agatha glances up and blinks at the sight of what looked like a female that was half dragon. At least, from what she could tell. The female almost seemed to resemble Cydaea in the face and build, but the scaly lines marking over her lightly furred skin with a soft, silver blue tone. With the way the arms, hands, calves and feet were clearly those of a dragon gave the rest away. The female looked around with silver eyes with cat's eye pupils and seemed to beam.**
"This place looks neat!" she beamed. At the sight of a silver tail flicking back and forth under her wave of white hair that was streaked with silvery blue lines, Alex found himself a bit amused. The silk she wore seemed to just barely cover over her, but even he could tell that she clearly didn't need it. When her large, silver wings flicked out to show even further of what else she was, the curiosity set in.
"And who are you?" Agatha asked.
"I'm Trishna! Hi!" she smiled.
"You look like another animal thing," Alex mused. "Your face looks like another hedgehog-thing. Am I wrong on this?"
"Oh? Well, my Mom is Cydaea. Daddy's name is Vol," she said.
"Your dad?" Alex asked.
"Yeah!" she chuckled. "Um, but what is this place?"
"It's the Break Room," Agatha smiled softly. "There's information on it on the back wall."
"Okay," she said. The spiraled horns on her head neatly held back the mass of hair as she walked over to read it. At the sight of the overly muscled, burnished silver hedgehog male that came in next, Alex rose a brow. Solid silver eyes glanced over the room, and a silver, draconic tail flicked as the figure moved to follow Trishna. The large, silver, draconic wings also stretched and re-folded neatly to his back. He did seem to have a hair that resembled the quills of a hedgehog, and those were the same burnished silver color as the rest of him.
"You're her dad?" Alex asked.
"I am," he nodded in a deep, elegant tone. "I'm here to keep her out of trouble."
"Daddy!" Trishna frowned. He gave a mild glare at her.
"Don't argue with me," he warned. She seemed to pout.
"What are you?" Alex asked.
"You don't want to know," Vol grinned.
"Can I know?" Agatha smiled.
"Well, this room isn't large enough to handle me. I do have a true form. This is just a basic traveling one. Unless this room can be adjusted?" he asked.
"Hey, Author! Can you make the room bigger for now?" Alex asked.
**The Author pauses in conversation with Malthael to look over and type on a few keys. The room shifts to enlarge and will revert back in size right after the size need was done.**
"Very nice," Vol chuckled. Then his form grew and shifted into his massive silver dragon form. Alex's jaw dropped. Agatha was just as speechless. Even Malthael watched with a form of amusement.
"Demon?" Malthael asked.
"No. Silver dragon," Vol snorted in his deeper tone. Malthael nodded and turned to talk to the Author again in privacy. When he turned his massive head to regard the viral couple, he snorted laughter.
"Okay. You're a dragon," Alex said.
"Obviously," Vol agreed.
"Didn't Gemma like dragons?" Agatha smiled. Alex found himself grinning and nudged the link. His daughter was soon walking through the double doors, and she found herself slack-jawed at the sight of a dragon in the room. Vol regarded her with a small nod.
"A…a dragon…!" she gasped.
"Yes. That I am," Vol said.
"Sorry. She loves dragons," Agatha chuckled.
"Ah! Now I see," he chuckled.
"It became a new thing with her recently," she said. Trishna beamed at Gemma and watched her father revert back to his smaller form. The room shrunk down, too, and he regarded Gemma with another nod. At how he reverted back down, Gemma seemed to pout.
"Smaller forms work better for me," Vol said calmly. "But, thank you for appreciating my kind."
"Um, is it known for dragons to have girls other than just dragons?" Gemma blushed.
"Gemma! Shut up!" Alex growled at her.
"Well, Trishna's mother is a succubus. I didn't let her get close without a fight," Vol shrugged. "So, to answer your question, I don't have to have just a normal dragon as a mate. But, I am very ancient. It may not be wise to seek companionship with me. Besides, from what I gathered here, our story arcs may never merge. You're better off as you are with another."
"Oh…" she frowned.
"He's high maintenance," Trishna grinned.
"Trishna…" Vol muttered. "I am not."
"Ah, okay, you are. And you're a massive hoarder," she jibed. At the glare he gave her, she went on, "Don't even, Dad! We don't even have a floor in my bedroom! Same for yours."
"The main chamber has a floor," he said.
"Only for guests! All the other rooms don't have floors," she said. As they continued to argue over living space, Malthael was still talking to the Author.
"Do you think…I could assist in your next form of…writing?" he asked.
I can plan on that. Humbert wanted to make an appearance, too, in the next chapter. I can see about linking you up to him. It can be done.
"Thank you…" he nodded. When he made no move to leave, the Author simply regarded him. Now Malthael leaned over to whisper softly again.
Talkative much?
"Perhaps…" he chuckled and went back to conversing. Out of curiosity, Trishna walked over to regard them both with a small smile. Malthael looked at her with irritation.
"I have a question for you," she said to the Author.
Okay. What is it?
"You've been doing a hidden side story of me. I kinda think it should come out for others to see. I mean…well…" she faltered a bit with a smile. "It is pretty lengthy."
True. But your story arc is different. Granted, it does have quite a bit of Sonic content in it, but it's more for my own personal amusement. Now, if others are curious and want to see this story, I'll see about putting it up. For now, it's in my vault.
"Personal story?" Malthael asked.
Yes. One that no one can see but myself. It's what I prefer right now.
Malthael leaned over to whisper softly. At this, the Author barked out laughter and gave a small shrug to show it could be done. "Do you think it can happen?"
I will have to see.
"Very well," he nodded. He still made no plans to leave.
If you wish to be in the next chapter, you cannot be here.
"Then wait until I leave," he seemed to snort. The Author sighed and regarded Trishna.
"I really do think that you should put it up," she frowned.
If it is requested, then I'll see what I can do. Until then, I cannot.
"So unfair!" she sighed and walked away. Malthael easily ignored her and refocused back on the Author to continue talking privately. Alex found it highly amusing at how Malthael was. It made him wonder on various levels.
"We need to get going. It was nice to meet you," Vol nodded to Gemma.
"Can I see you again?" she smiled.
"It's possible if it's here," he chuckled and walked out with Trishna. Gemma found herself blushing, but Alex was not happy.
"Gemma," Alex said lightly. "I forbid you to be with him."
"What?!" she gasped.
"No," Alex said in a very blunt way now. Agatha seemed to frown at this and gave a wink to her. She would see about arranging something.
**As the three of them decided to leave the room to talk to some other family members, Malthael was still conversing with the Author. The conversation was going well into the hour and through the rest of the evening.**
**By the time Alex Mercer and Agatha came back in, Malthael was already gone. The Author was busy tapping away at the keys to smooth out the finishing touches of the next chapter for An Angelic Dilemma. The Author was already planning to have Ocean Visions as the next to be updated. Now with those updated, Frozen Bride was next and soon done. On musing over which story arc needed to be updated next, which was likely Teen Titans, the Author looks up to see Alex approaching.**
"Hello!" Alex grinned and walked over.
Hello! You look good.
"Thanks! So, what do you plan to work on next? You got quite a few stories updated."
I know. I believe that Teen Titans is next on my list. I'm half tempted to just stick to one until it's done, but I keep going back to others to get them going. I can't help it.
"Unless you're on a streak, right?" Alex chuckled.
You can say that.
**The Author nods and looks over at Agatha when she walks over to talk.**
"When do I get my slumber party?" she frowned.
Slumber party?
"Yes! I was told that I would get to interact with more girls. I can treat it like a slumber party. Can I pleeease have my slumber party? I promise I'll behave!" she begged.
"You won't behave," Alex muttered. She stuck her tongue out at him.
Okay. Let me see what I can do.
"Yay!" she giggled. Alex just sighed and found himself getting glanced at. "You are not allowed to be here when it happens. No males allowed!"
"What? Oh, come on!" he grumbled.
"Nope! Girls only!" she grinned.
"And what about the Author?" he asked.
"Only exception," she smiled. He rolled his eyes. "You can stay until they get here."
**The keys were already being tapped on for several envelopes to appear before vanishing away. Cydaea, Trishna and Sarine were quick to show up with their invitations. Anaurael and Saithe were next to appear. Nichole, Ambrosia and Jenna, from the story arc, The Frozen Bride, appeared next through the main doors. They all glanced at each other with a touch of awkward silence.**
"Um, are we in trouble?" Trishna frowned.
"Nope! It's a slumber party for girls only!" Agatha chuckled. "Nice to meet you new ones. I'm Agatha. My mate is Alex. He's here, but he'll be leaving shortly."
"He should stay," Cydaea chuckled. "We need someone to pick on."
"What about that one you worked with before?" Saithe asked.
"Oh, yes! Lyndon," she grinned wickedly.
"Lyndon was here?" Anaurael frowned. "He's a disgusting man!"
"He can't handle me," Cydaea snickered.
"How is that?" Anaurael asked.
"She's a succubus," Saithe grinned. "A type of demoness."
"A demon?!" Anaurael cringed.
"What's wrong with demons? I have quite a few demon lovers," Sarine shrugged. "They are all quite passionate. Ah! You come from a story where demons are all evil! It's not like that everywhere, you know. You don't have to hate them here. If anything, they are just very over-protective and blood-thirsty to all that wish to hurt me and the family. They don't like to think of themselves as evil."
"Unless that's what they want others to think," Saithe grinned again.
"Demons?" Ambrosia blinked. Her pregnancy was hidden for now to let her walk around normally. She was a bit relieved.
"I have just a small idea," Nichole smiled.
"Ah…" Jenna blinked. "Am I missing something here?"
"We didn't meet a few of you yet," Agatha smiled warmly. Introductions were made all around with brief explanations of where they came from. "Ah! So, Jenna, you are the one with Jack Frost?"
"Yes," she seemed to blush. "He saved my life."
"From a dare, right? I hope that asshole got what he deserved!" Alex smirked.
"He was being set up with a wife," she chuckled. That got him laughing.
"To be chained to another. A perfect solution," Cydaea nodded.
"Like how you were with Dad?" Trishna grinned.
"I was never chained to him. I only vowed to be with him to protect you," she snorted.
"Sure, sure, Mom," she beamed.
"I should have some of my daughters here," Agatha sighed. "But then it would get crowded."
"How many do you have?" Sarine asked.
"Oh…I lost count over a hundred," Agatha shrugged. Now she got stared at. "I produce eggs. At least a hundred at a time, and they develop in full within a day. I can't even count how many kids I have now! Yes, I know it's odd…"
"Well, I have about sixteen children," Sarine chuckled. "Multiple births at once, too, but they take a couple weeks to develop. Can't help it."
"You both win!" Nichole said with her hands raised up. Saithe seemed to shudder at the thought.
"What's wrong?" Anaurael asked.
"Yeah, I have kid, too. Just…so many! No thanks!" Saithe said.
"Well, I have eggs now. In that side story," Trishna smiled.
"I'm pregnant with my first one," Ambrosia smiled.
"Same here!" Nichole said.
"I have three children and pregnant again," Jenna smiled softly.
"I have one son and pregnant again, too. I'm not sure if being pregnant and giving birth from my soul would count, but I did give birth just like that recently for Anu to be reborn. My soul is pregnant again. So, in a sense, I'm having twins," Anaurael smiled. Sarine was quite curious of this now.
"Pregnant in your soul?" Saithe asked.
"It's…difficult to explain," Anaurael seemed to shrug.
"Twins! Oh, how wonderful!" Sarine giggled. "I am currently having five children. I usually only have four at time. My first pregnancy was twins, though."
"So many children!" Jenna beamed.
"We should have a children's play date when the time comes. For those that will work," Nichole smiled. "That would be so much fun!"
"I can see that!" Agatha grinned.
**They glance over to see Raven and Starfire walk in. They seemed upset that they were a touch late, but they arrive and quickly settle in.**
"A party!" Starfire gasped with delight. Then she brought out her jar of zorkaberries. "Would anyone like to partake?"
"They're bitter," Raven warned. At that, they all politely declined for now. "Anyways, I'm Raven. Robe is with me, but he promises to keep quiet about everything here."
"Ah, no," Alex said. "If I have to leave, so does he."
"He's not a real man. He's clothing. He can stay," Agatha grinned.
"What?! I'm a virus! I'm not a man!" Alex scowled.
Technically, you are. You can impregnate Agatha. Robe cannot do that. So, Robe is an exception. I would know this.
"You're no help!" he growled. At how the girls giggled at him and seemed to wave him out of the room, he finally relented. But, on his way out, he paused. "Should I send in Dionysus so you girls can dress him up in a gown and makeup?"
"That is sorely tempting," Agatha snickered darkly. "We'll wait a bit."
Alex nodded back and walked out of the room. Once he was gone, the girls began to giggle.
"I must say. I am a bit surprised at myself for being so calm around demons," Anaurael sighed.
"Don't worry. Not all of us are bad. And in here, we can get along!" Cydaea grinned.
"I don't believe that any of us will have any other ways to see each other, too," Nichole shrugged. "So, this is fine. I'll go with it! I am surprised that I don't miss Kilnak that much."
Such needs are curbed here. You could think of this place being much like a pocket dimension. No time is lost in the other story lines. You're fine here.
"Awesome!" Raven grinned.
"I do find it interesting that I am not so hungry," Ambrosia chuckled.
"What do you eat?" Trishna asked.
"She eats Fae honey!" Starfire beamed.
"It's very dense. Ah! I have some here," Ambrosia said. "Just a small drop on your finger."
The girls try just a drop and several of them gasped at how full they were. Cydaea and Saithe were thinking of new torture tools with this stuff. At the sudden opening of the double doors, the girls glanced over to see Lyndon walking in. Blinking at all the females there, he let out a small grin. He definitely felt the need to impress them! And, on seeing Anaurael, that feeling only got stronger.
I'm sorry, Lyndon. You need to leave.
"What? But I just got here!" he said.
"Oh, please. Let him stay," Cydaea purred out. "We need someone to experiment with."
"Ah…" he blinked. He remembered his session with her. In a sense, he didn't want a repeat performance from how much he needed to recover.
"How do you mean?" Agatha asked.
"Who here has a spare gown and a makeup kit?" Cydaea grinned wickedly. Saithe snickered. At how the girls now looked at him with small grins, Lyndon seemed to sweat.
"And we should have our men come in to evaluate our work. If they don't like it, they can start to point out what we need to fix," Sarine smiled. Now Lyndon felt that his 'man card' was in jeopardy. He couldn't let anyone catch him wearing a dress! He'd never live it down!
"I think you're right. I need to leave," Lyndon said quickly and stormed out.
"Aww. I thought he'd want to play," Cydaea sighed. That got them all laughing.
"What all do you tend to do for fun?" Raven asked.
"For fun? I like to perform risqué dances with my men," Sarine grinned.
"Oh! Can you give us a sample?" Agatha asked.
"I could," she nodded. "I know quite a few dances. I could even see if I can get one of my slaves here to work with me. For a dancing partner."
"Oh…" Trishna seemed to blink at the idea.
"You have me interested," Cydaea chuckled.
"A slave?" Starfire frowned.
"He is someone that lives to serve me. He wanted to do it. I gave him the choice," Sarine smiled softly. Raven nodded with understanding at that. "I can never force such a decision on another."
"Yeah. I mean, I heard about it," Nichole seemed to shrug. "I was never really into it."
"What all do you do? Do you whip him?" Saithe asked.
"I can. But I don't. I can't stand seeing my slaves in pain. I don't like to give pain to anyone, really," Sarine frowned. "But, if they ask for it, then I will do so. Usually just a few bites and scratches helps them along."
"Sounds interesting," Saithe grinned. Anaurael just sighed and shook her head. She couldn't comprehend such a thing at all for someone to simply ask for pain.
"What is it, friend Anaurael?" Starfire asked.
"It just baffles me that someone would ask for such a thing. To want it. It makes me sad. Just to know that someone wants the pain," she sighed. "I do not understand."
"But…they feel happy when they get that pain," Sarine said gently and moved to sit by her. "Yes, no one would actually want pain. But, if it makes them happy to get that, then why not? My men find it rather pleasuring, too! Don't give me that look! It's what they tell me."
"Wow! Really submissive, huh?" Cydaea chuckled.
"Yes. And they belong to me," Sarine said with an edge in her tone. That caught the succubus off-guard. Even Agatha was impressed with that. "Only I can give them what they want. Remember that. They will refuse all others."
"You just gave me chills," Raven said with a small swallow.
"Sorry. That was the demon side of me. I'm very protective of them as they are of me," she sighed with an apologetic look. "I've been ridiculed and belittled for a long time."
"I think we've all felt that before," Nichole said softly. "Mine was from my younger sister. We just made up after all this time."
"I was locked away in a dark room and pretty much left to die when I was only two years old. That went on until I was about fourteen. I was checked on only once a week. It was…well…" Sarine seemed to sigh. Anaurael was shocked. Sarine found herself swarmed by the others to get hugged and dog-piled. They all found themselves laughing at it.
"Hopefully things are better now?" Starfire asked.
"Oh, much better!" Sarine smiled and was able to sit up. "Hmm. I think we need some snacks."
"We do. I can get a drone to help," Agatha said. "Drones aren't men or women. They lack those features, so they are safe to appear for this."
"Weird," Nichole smiled. Saithe was happily chatting away with Cydaea about various torture devices. At the gourmet snacks now provided by various drones in the kitchens, Sarine had an idea.
"I could have my husband, Charles, teach them a few things. He's a Royal Chef," she smiled.
"I'll take you up on that!" Agatha smiled back.
"So, what should we do now?" Nichole asked.
"Weren't you going to show us a few dances with a slave?" Cydaea asked Sarine. Nodding at this, Sarine stood up and looked over at the Author.
**With a nod back, some keys were typed on for Errende Ebecee to appear through the double doors. At first he was confused, but, when he saw Sarine, he made his way to her side.**
"My Lady? You have need of me?" he asked. The blond-haired, blue-eyed slave shivered when she put a finger in his golden leash loop to pull close to whisper. "Yes. I understand…"
"Good. Hurry up now," she smiled and pressed a soft kiss to his mouth. He nodded and removed the High Priest clothes he wore to expose his muscular physique underneath them. The tight, black leather vest and pants he wore underneath the clothing had the other girls stammering with surprise.
"So…he's one of your slaves?" Cydaea asked.
"I am her slave," Errende said with a touch of pride. "Her First Slave, to be precise. I am the one the others look up to for advice and information on how best to please her. I never question what she wishes of me."
"Errende…" Sarine said softly. He looked at her and knelt down. Anaurael was clearly surprised by this. "Are you ready to dance?"
"Yes, My Lady," he said reverently. At the sight of the pink and blue gems in his leash loop, Nichole asked about them. "They show that I gave My Lady children. A son and daughter."
"Oh!" Nichole blinked. Raven was clearly as amused as Robe was now. At the risqué dance being done now, Cydaea was clearly impressed. Even Trishna was taking acute interest in it, too.
"I would never be able to bend like that," Agatha sighed.
"I can," Ambrosia giggled. "I inherited that trait from my Mother. My husband, Jericho, even finds himself speechless at some of the positions I think of for him."
"You have to show us," Cydaea grinned. At that, she blushed an intense shade of red to get them all giggling softly at her. After Sarine finished her dance with Errende, she whispered to him and let him leave. "What did you tell him?"
"That I'd reward him later," Sarine chuckled. That got them all laughing.
"Okay, it is my turn," Ambrosia nodded and stood up when she was looked at. At how she let her body twist and twirl in nearly impossible ways, Saithe seemed to think.
"I can do some of those," she grinned. Cydaea started to laugh.
"I am not that bendy!" Nichole grimaced.
"It's hard enough for me to run after Jack in the forest!" Jenna blinked.
"I can train and fight for hours, but this is an intensity even I could not fathom," Anaurael smiled.
"Robe, no," Raven grumbled. Cydaea barked out laughter at that.
"What did Robe ask?" Starfire asked.
"I refrain from answering that question," she said with a small blush.
**The small group continued to gossip and talk all through the evening. Sleeping bags appeared for those that needed them, and Agatha decided to 'spice' up the action a touch.**
"Damn straight, I do!" Agatha grinned a the room.
"What do you have in mind?" Ambrosia smiled and sipped her hot chocolate. Human food didn't bother her here at all, and she was greatly pleased with that.
"We need to dress up someone," she grinned a bit more.
"Oh! Yes, we need to give someone a makeover," Nichole beamed.
"A…makeover?" Anaurael blinked. At the looks everyone gave her, the molten-gold haired beauty seemed to pale. She was, quite apparently, chosen to receive the treatment.
"We make you even more beautiful!" Trishna smiled. Starfire was already dancing with joy that this was going to happen to one of them.
"You never wore makeup, right?" Sarine asked.
"Um…what's…makeup?" Anaurael asked. Jaws dropped all over.
"I could bring Annie here, but she'd freak out. I know the most on this stuff from living with her," Nichole said. "Ah, Author? Can you help us out with a small table with makeup kits?"
**The Author nods and types on a few keys for a salon-like table to appear with various mirrors, makeup applications and other various things usually seen in a beauty salon.**
"Thanks!" Nichole grinned. A couple drones were ready to help, too.
"I can also help with what the hive link can provide," Agatha said. "The drones will assist."
"We can make your hair pretty, too!" Starfire said.
"My hair? I am afraid that is not possible," Anaurael sighed.
"Nonsense!" Cydaea grinned and took up a set of scissors. On trying to use them on a fine lock of her hair, before Anaurael could stop her, the scissors broke completely in half.
"Yeah. My hair…cannot be cut. It can be compared to locks of solid gold if under attack. Courtesy of Imperius," Anaurael smiled softly. "If I style it, it looks like ropes of metal. It's best to leave it alone. I can pull it back with pins, but it does not tangle, nor can it be cut or styled any other way."
"And people say that I'm creepy!" Raven blinked. "And it's not bad. Just different."
"We are all different in our own ways. Take me, for example. I can twinkle when it's dark!" Trishna laughed. Now they all looked at her. Then they looked at the Author.
Very well.
**A few keys are tapped, and the room gets dark rather quickly. Now Trishna rose up and backed a bit away for some space.**
"This will be interesting," Sarine chuckled. The others easily agreed. At the soft glowing that Trishna started to do as she danced, they seemed to pause with surprise. When her body began to shoot off small stars, Ambrosia gasped with surprise.
"This is much like the lights I can create in my Fae home!" she said. She whispered a soft enchantment for several small lights of various colors to dance and twirl around the twinkling sparkles that Trishna gave off. The effect was completely enchanting and otherworldly.
"It's even better under a full moon," Trishna said brought her dance to a close as the lights turned back up. "Moonlight always makes things better!"
"I am curious, Anaurael," Nichole said. "Does it ever turn to night in your Heaven?"
"Oh, no. It's always daylight," Anaurael said.
"How do you sleep then? Or keep track of the days?" Jenna asked.
"My brothers darken the room a bit around my bed. It helps. I have stood in moonlight before. It is very pretty on its own," she smiled.
"Has Imperius ever seen you in moonlight?" Saithe asked.
"Huh? Oh. Well, he has stood with me before. And held me as I slept," she said. At this Saithe shook her head at this. "What is it?"
"He hasn't actually seen you in it. Standing alone. I mean, yeah, he's watched you. But he hasn't actually noticed you in it. Moonlight can do different things. It can amplify beauty," Saithe explained. At this, Anaurael found herself thinking.
"When I read up on you, Tyrael found you stunning in the moonlight. When you went to ask him for help with that Chalice," Agatha said. "Imperius should see you in that state, too."
"Oh…" Anaurael thought aloud.
"I think she's right," Raven said. "Wouldn't you want to be noticed in the moonlight?"
"Well…I never thought about it…" she admitted softly.
"Maybe you should," Cydaea chuckled.
"The plants in Heaven do give off the same effect," she started.
"But it's still in the day. Even in those closed off rooms, it's not the same. You need actual moonlight. So, first we'll give you a makeover. Then we'll see how you look in moonlight!" Agatha said with a stern nod. When Anaurael was about to protest, she found herself hauled up by the others and moved into the waiting chair of plush vinyl. Nichole and Agatha both studied her facial structure and tones to select the proper makeup kits that would complement her. After they were done, they showed her to the others with a quick spin of the chair.
"Wow!" Raven said.
"You look amazing!" Sarine said with a giggle of excitement.
"So pretty!" Starfire beamed.
"What gowns do you tend to wear?" Saithe asked.
"Manly gowns of spun gold. I have worn others, but gold always suited me," she said. "I have one gown that is gold with diamonds stitched in it."
"What?" Nichole blinked. Anaurael was able to retrieve her gown with the Author's help to show them. "Oh my gosh! Put that on! Stand in the moonlight with that!"
"But…" she faltered. Then she squeaked at how the others were quick to help her. When she stood in her gown, even Ambrosia was a touch amazed at how it looked.
"Okay. Now we need some moonlight," Sarine said.
**The Author seemed to grin and tap on a few keys. Then, as a hidden surprise, the Author had Imperius notified to peer into the Break Room to see what was going on.**
The arena now has moonlight in it. Go there.
"Okay," Anaurael smiled.
**As they all went outside, the Author tapped a few keys to appear in the stands with the others. The arena was a quarter mile stadium with plenty of seating and a dirt ground. As Anaurael now moved to stand near the center of the arena, the golden light of Imperius was now seen appearing next to her. Those that hadn't seen him yet could only stare with complete shock and awe.**
"Who's that?!" Trishna asked.
"That is Imperius. Horny almost had a fight with him," Saithe snickered softly. "My mate, that is. You'll meet him in time, I'm sure."
"Cool!" Trishna beamed and looked back at the center of the arena.
"Anaurael…" Imperius whispered.
"What? I mean…you're here…?!" Anaurael seemed to gasp.
"I have…never noticed how…" he actually was at a loss for words. He never saw her with makeup on before. Or in a setting like this in full. He always stood behind her and held her. He never actually studied her like this. Even when she went to ask Tyrael for help, he was far too concerned over her safety to fully see her like this. He now realized what he was missing. "Who had you…?"
"It was their idea," she said and looked at the giggling girls in the distance. When she looked back at him, she noticed how he was gazing at her. She found herself blushing softly.
"I think in time," he said. "I would…like for all of Heaven to see you like this."
"Would that be wise?" she frowned.
"If I am with you," he seemed to growl, and he pulled her up into his arms. "Then we both know that none will touch you. My word is the law."
"I know," she smiled and let him kiss her.
"I should take you back," he muttered.
"But…I am having fun here," she smiled. "Who knows what else will happen!"
"Hmm. Well…" he seemed undecided.
She is safe. You have my word.
"Very well," he nodded. He cradled her for a bit longer in the glow of the moonlight. His form seemed to pulse out his inner, lava-colored Light. The other girls easily saw her mark on her forehead glow in perfect sync with Imperius's form. "I love you."
"I love you," she whispered back and let him kiss her again. She was set back down, squeezed gently at her shoulders and he vanished away. Right after he left, the others rushed down to squeal and compliment her even more.
"We should have a campfire night!" Sarine grinned.
"We totally should!" Trishna said.
"Next time, though," Raven said.
"Why not now?" Nichole asked. Jenna was already watching the Author tapping away at the keys for a small campfire cookout to be done. They were introduced to what smores were, and Sarine showed them how cooked meat tasted wonderfully done over an open fire. When Starfire tried to toast some of the small zorkaberries over the flame, she was surprised at how they tasted when warmed up and lightly cooked. When the other girls tried some, Raven hid her grin. Even Robe was mentally laughing at some of the looks the girls gave. Even Ambrosia was giggling softly.
"You weren't kidding about that bitterness!" Agatha grimaced.
"I told you so," Raven grinned a bit openly now.
"I wonder if these would taste good in a pie with a little sugar," Jenna mused. Now they all looked at her. It would have to be done at some point.
"I'd say this was a complete success. I do have a feeling that Alex would ask for a guy's night. What do you all think?" Agatha asked as they all got back into the Break Room.
I would not be surprised.
"Me neither!" Sarine nodded at the Author's appearance back in the usual place. "Would you make a small pub setting for them?"
If asked, it's possible. But, I will not push that subject just yet.
"Good to know," Agatha grinned.
**As the evening grew to a close, a few of the girls had already started to yawn. Jenna was already sleeping in her sleeping bag, and Raven and Starfire had already followed suit. Ambrosia was used to staying up at night, and was easily conversing with those that didn't need much sleep. In the end, they all agreed that this was something that clearly needed to happen again.**