~**And it's time for another chapter! Woohoo! And, yes. A bit of a cliffhanger in that last chapter, eh? But, don't worry! It will be resolved here! Maybe. Hopefully. I honestly didn't intend for Aeon's introduction to be like this! The characters tend to do what they like these days. What can I say? And, yes, there is a vote! Should Aeon gain his own story arc? Let me know! Or else Alex will start up a conniption fit that no one is responding! . Check out the previous chapters if you all want to know exactly what is going on so far. Other than that, have fun reading!**~
**Some time had passed with the characters in their destined rooms. Cydaea was still dancing on the public pole in the main lounge area of the strip club room. It all seemed rather calm. That was until Aeon walked out of Sarine's room with Kiehl and Muninn. He was calm about it. The other two were tense, but Muninn already knew what needed to be done.**
"I understand what Sarine wanted to do," Kiehl grounded out as they all moved to sit down to talk. "But the fact that you gave in to it is inexcusable! What the Hell were you thinking?!"
"What would you think of if you were being seduced by one that is desirable?" Aeon countered back. Alex was seen walking out of his room now, and he sensed the tension in the air.
"Okay. What just happened?" Alex asked and sat with them. "Agatha's still recovering."
"He slept with Sarine behind my back," Kiehl glowered. Alex gave a small whistle.
"She initiated it, though. The Author froze time to allow it. Now he has to fight Kiehl and I to see if he is worthy to keep being with her," Muninn sighed. He looked over to see Howard walking out with Doppy. He just heard what Kiehl said from his mental thoughts. He was pissed.
"The agreement was no touching. Wasn't it?" Howard muttered. He paused at the soft touch that Sarine did to his back when she walked up behind him. At how she hugged him from behind, he sighed. "Why, Sarine? Why did you let him?"
"Why wouldn't I have let him?" she asked back softly. He just groaned and moved into a chair to let her start massaging his shoulders in comfort.
"Don't touch his tattoo," Kiehl said with a small chuckle. Alex was curious about that bit, but he saw Agatha getting ready to open the door to look for him. Deciding to wisely back out of this one, he went back into his destined room to stick to her side and keep her out of trouble.
"Sarine, you know how we feel about this sort of thing," Doppy grunted. She moved to kiss his cheek and whisper in his ear. "He is not an unattached mate! There is no such thing!"
"It can be a new thing here," she giggled and ran her hand through his hair to make him purr.
"Cheater…" he grumbled.
"Besides, it's what Sammy would have been," she said. When the other males that belonged to her came out of the room, she pouted a little bit. Ragged Zombie was actually showing a bit of a perplexed look. He found Aeon to be a rather likable person.
"We need a conference room," Eremes muttered. "Talking like this…it draws attention."
**The Author was calmly listening in to everything that was happening. With a sigh, the Author gestured for their attention.**
Sarine only had good intentions in mind. You know how sensitive she is to these things. Aeon has already agreed to fight for his place. Kiehl, you did the same thing with Elric. Just get this done so we can continue to end this event peacefully.
"Fine," Kiehl said. "Sarine, you say he didn't feel like fitting with you?"
"No," she smiled. "In a way, he reminds me of your duplicate."
"Of my…oh! Hmm…" he paused.
"You think we can treat him like that? As an extension of you?" Howard asked. Now Doppy found himself thinking.
"Another way to think of him as Kiehl…" Keltin thought aloud. "They do look alike…"
"Do it," Ragged Zombie nodded.
"Good. We have our solution," Loomin smiled. "Aeon, we can now accept you as part of our group for here only. Congratulations."
"So…I don't have to fight anyone…?" Aeon asked with confusion.
"No," Sammy smiled and pat his shoulder in a rather brotherly way. That had Aeon pause with a bit of surprise. "Is something wrong?"
"I just…"Aeon swallowed.
"You never had a family before?" Sarine asked.
"You could say that," he nodded. Now she grabbed his hands and pulled him over to where the computers were. She had a drone pull up her story arc. "What's this about?"
"Sit down and read," she said with a smile and pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Talk to me more after. Okay? This is needed for you."
"I feel like I'm being punished. Let me get my weapon," he smirked and got up to retrieve his sword. He needed that close to him at all times. When he sat back down, he accepted the warm squeeze she gave his shoulders. She laughed at his small blush, and she let Kiehl walk up to her to squeeze her. Howard was soon joining them to monitor what would happen next. The two of them glanced over at the main doors to see Saithe and Horny walk in.
"We're late," Saithe growled out. She did smile at the sight of Sarine, and the girls hugged.
"I have a new man!" Sarine beamed. "For here only, though."
"Really?" Saithe grinned. When she saw Aeon, her brows rose. "Only for here? So…he is temporary then?"
"Mine!" Sarine said with a touch of bristling protection. Saithe narrowed her eyes and smirked.
"Ever been fought over before?" Howard muttered to Aeon.
"Not really…" Aeon admitted.
"Hey!" Saithe frowned when Horny threw her over his shoulder.
"You're mine. Mine alone. He can piss off," Horny snorted and trudged into the new section with her to claim a room. Sarine found herself laughing at how neatly the issue was resolved. Aeon sighed and shook his head before turning his attention to the computer screen.
"You are keeping this gown on you," Imperius said when he walked out to the main room. Aeon had to look over and found himself staring at Anaurael in a two-piece dress that could have been a gold bikini with a filmy skirt overlay.
"Careful," Keltin muttered and flicked his ear. "Sarine is possessive of you right now."
"You wear gold, too?" Sarine found herself giggling at Anaurael.
"You should know that I always wear gold," Anaurael laughed softly. Imperius set her down, and the girls hugged in their sisterly way. "Hello, Aeon!"
"Hi…" he said. Sarine actually chuckled at this. Anaurael had no intentions of going for him, so Sarine was fine with Aeon's mild flirting. As Imperius would let any others touch her, too!
"Filth!" Imperius snorted at Aeon. He looked over when Tyrael walked in.
"Is it my turn now?" Tyrael chuckled. He glanced over at Aeon. "Hello! I haven't met you yet."
"Anaurael…?" Aeon frowned with confusion.
"I have a truce with Imperius. It's all in the story arc," Tyrael said.
**Time suddenly freezes to only have Aeon active with the Author. A gesture is given for Aeon to approach and talk freely.**
What are you planning to do? Sarine has already accepted you. Her group has welcomed you into the fold. What are your thoughts?
"I'm not even sure," he sighed and sat down heavily. "Maybe I should leave."
You are not being forced to stay, you know. You can come and go as you please.
"I am aware of that. I just feel like I need more. That I want more. It's hard to explain."
You need a story arc.
"No. Well…ugh. I have no clue anymore. And if you even did give me one, how would this work? What would happen? I have no idea."
It's why the vote is in place. Let's give it a few days and see what people think.
"I'm one of those that can't afford to wait around for long. I mean…what do I do to pass the time? How would I keep myself occupied?"
You could read.
Aeon blinked at this, ran a hand over his face and laughed softly. "True. I can read."
**The Author muses at something and types a bit on the keys to bring Anaurael into the time loop. She was quite surprised at this, but she walked over to where the Author was at the gesture.**
"I am here without the sight of Imperius or Tyrael?" she asked.
Yes. Please give Aeon some encouragement.
"Encouragement?" Aeon asked.
"I am as confused as you!" Anaurael seemed to smile. "But what ails you?"
"There is much that I'm missing here."
"That is always the case," she agreed. "But, while you are here, you can learn. Right?"
"True," he nodded. "I did want to learn about everything I can."
"What better place to be than here?" she beamed. He smiled and looked away. "Is something wrong? Do you need to talk?"
"I think you need to go back to the ones that have claimed you," he said lightly. She reached out to squeeze his shoulder like a concerned sister. He reached up to squeeze her hand back gently.
"I can always see you as my brother, you know," she smiled. "I don't mind that in the slightest."
"Thank you," he said softly. He released her hand and sighed. "I have some reading to do."
"That you do," she nodded. She walked back over to Imperius and time resumed. Then Anarius was seen coming through the main doors. Aeon's eyes widened with complete shock at the size of the massive demi-god.
"MOTHER, IT IS GOOD TO SEE YOU. YOU ARE WELL?" he asked and Imperius let Anaurael get scooped up and hugged.
"I am doing very well, my son," she laughed and pressed a chaste kiss to his invisible lips.
"Mother?! He's your son?!" Aeon gaped.
"That he is," Anaurael nodded. Sarine was snickering with the others from where they were. "When you read my story arc, you'll see how it happened. Anarius, this is Aeon. He is a new friend of mine. Please treat him with due respect."
"THAT I SHALL," he said.
"He desires your mother," Imperius grunted. Now Anarius glanced at Aeon oddly.
"I have claimed him as mine when he is here," Sarine said.
"But, do you plan to be here all the time for him?" Imperius asked her directly. At this, she seemed to stiffen up. At the look that Anaurael gave him, he took her from Anarius. "Do not look at me like that. I am only concerned for your safety."
"He's right, you know," Aeon said softly. "I can be very unpredictable at times."
"That we know…" Howard sighed. Then Aeon froze time and rose up. Of course, the Author was immune to this. Anaurael found herself moving, and she was very shocked at this.
"What are you…?" she blinked.
"This will only take a minute…" he said lightly and pulled up a chair to stand on to reach her.
Aeon. Don't do it.
"What? Why?" he asked and looked over.
Trust me. Don't do it.
"And what will you do if I do?" he asked.
**Keys are now typed on for Anaurael to be frozen in time. Aeon found himself lifted into the air and completely weightless. The Author sighs and turns to regard him.**
Stop being stubborn. You are only making this more difficult that it should be.
"I'm being stubborn?!" he gaped.
Yes, you are. I am offering you a chance to gain more depth and quality. Instead, you are testing me. You don't want to test me. Anaurael belongs to Imperius. She tells him EVERYTHING. The moment you did what you wished, Imperius would have impaled you with a whole army of angels. Not to mention the ones that just befriended you here. Don't destroy a good thing. She wants to treat you like a brother. I'd go with it.
"And how would you have known what I would have done?" he asked. The Author looks at him calmly. "Oh. Right. Well…"
The last thing we want is an all-out war. So, please, do me a favor. Hang out here. Behave yourself. Something will open up for you in time.
"On a condition," he said.
**The keys are tapped on again for Aeon to be set on the floor. He walks up to the Author to whisper. A face-palm is done with a roll of the eyes.**
Are you serious?
"Yes. That is my condition."
Fine. But, you say nothing. Agreed?
**He easily agrees. A heavy sigh is done, and keys are tapped on for a small notepad to appear. It's now typed on for him to read what is put. Now he looks at the Author with complete shock. The Author regards him again with a small nod. The notepad was deleted shortly after. Time came back after that with a few more keystrokes, and Aeon soon found Sarine in his arms to hug him tight.**
"Was it a mistake to claim you?" she asked.
"No," he said and gently kissed her forehead. "It's just…different here. That's all."
"Okay," she nodded and hugged him again. "If it helps, I do care greatly for the ones I claim."
"I can tell," he chuckled.
"Now get back to reading," Kiehl said with a point to the computer. Aeon chuckled and shook his head to heed that advice. Imperius was not amused, and Tyrael was able to carefully take up Anaurael to be led into the room she was in with Imperius before.
**With a dangerous issue now averted neatly, the Author can get back to work and get a few more story arcs updated. And, maybe, a new one started. That one is still questionable, but it is an option, nonetheless.**
**Time lapses, the Author is still working, and nothing out of the usual is going on. Aeon was sitting alone with the Author, but he was reading up on what was going on around him.**
"That does get annoying after a while," he muttered loudly.
Get used to it. It's not going away.
"I can tell," he smirked. "And it's been some time since you spoke to me."
I know. I've been busy with seasonal work and reality. Not much else to do. My job requires me to work longer hours. I'm doing what I can.
"I did notice that you started up another story arc. But…it's not about me…" Aeon sighed.
I know. And I am sorry about that. I'm still trying to figure out a good way to bring you about. It will happen! Just give it time. At least you're here, right?
"True," he chuckled. Then he looked over to see the character Jacob Clarke walking in out of boredom. Aeon rose a brow at this one.
"Hi. I'm bored. Got anything to do?" the man resembling The Crow asked. The crow on his shoulder also looked rather bored.
There is a new lounge you can go to. The doors are over there.
**The Author points to the elaborately done doors. Jacob nods and walks over to enter them. The first thing he sees is Cydaea still twirling around on a pole. But, he notices the bar and decides to help himself to a drink.**
"Is that necessary?" he asks. Of course, he was asking about the room.
"Why wouldn't it be?" Cydaea chuckled. He seems to shrug and orders a glass of wine.
**Who came in next was Raven from Teen Titans. Robe wanted to see this newly added room, much to her chagrined disdain. She was a bit surprised to see Jacob, though. Thinking to herself for a moment, she decides to walk on over.**
"Hi," she said lightly. He glances at her and nods.
"Hello. Who are you?"
"I'm Raven from the Teen Titans."
"Ah. I'm Jacob Clarke. I don't really have an affiliation with anyone. I'm just here to enjoy a good drink. Interested?"
"Oh. Um…sure. I don't think I'm really at a legal age, but, eh…why not?" she smiled and sat down. He nods and orders a glass of wine for her. "A little shouldn't hurt."
"One should be okay. So…what do you do?" he asked casually.
"I excel in shadow properties and telekinetic magic. Dark magic on occasion, too. In the story I was just a part of, I've been training in ancient magic. It's fun!" she grinned and sipped the wine.
"Interesting," he mused. "What kind of ancient magic?"
"Elven magic, really. I know! It's…crazy. But it's true. Powerful stuff."
"Prove it," he smirked. She nodded and took out a small green crystal.
"This is a moon crystal. It's charged up, so it can do various things if you know how to use it," she said. She focused and the room glittered up with sparkles.
"I'm not impressed," he admitted. She rose a brow at him and took out a blue crystal.
"Follow me outside, if you could," she grinned. He downed his drink and got up to follow her. The crow lets out a small chirp from the sudden movement, but easily maintains balance again.
**The Author waves and watches them go out through the arena doors. Raven shows off the blue moon crystal once more to Jacob Clarke before chanting to it softly to let it glow. Then she throws it to a safe distance away. The explosion and small crater it left behind is rather intense.**
"Okay. Now I'm impressed," he grinned. "Any way for me to get one of those?"
"I don't think so," she frowned. "That Author is pretty strict on how things work here."
"I see. Maybe my Creator can give me a nifty little thing like that. You think?"
"Dunno," she shrugs. "Possibly."
"Just have to see, eh?" he sighed. "It does give me some new ideas on crafting micro-bombs…"
"That would be interesting," she grinned.
"So…are you seeing anyone? I already do have someone, but I'm just generally curious."
"Oh. Well, Beast Boy is nice," she seemed to shrug.
"No others? You don't seem to the be type that's just bound to one guy," he grinned. Then he paused when Robe manifested next to her in his illusionary form.
"Me. Mildly to a point," Robe chuckled. Raven cleared her throat.
"So…have you ever tried to…" Jacob started to ask.
"No comment," Robe grinned slightly at Raven's blush. "More mental than physical, if anything. It's a nice learning experience."
"Stop it!" Raven flustered.
"You can't become physical?" Jacob had to ask.
"Not exactly. But, you could say that the thought really counts here," Robe grinned a bit more. Raven pinched the inside of her robe to cause a small reaction in the projection.
"I'll stop while I'm ahead," Jacob said wisely. "I gotta get going, anyways."
"Nice to meet you. You can call me Robe if we meet again," Robe nodded.
"Rather obvious, you would think?" Jacob nodded back and was quick to leave the area.
"Don't tell me you're interested in him," Robe sighed at Raven as she walked back into the main room. She rolled her eyes at him now.
"No. He's just an interesting person. That's all," she said. Robe only shook his head and vanished away as she left the room. The Author could only chuckle and continue to type.
**More time passes and the Author was working on reality and other story arcs to update. The Author also began to study up on a new game. Something not yet played before. When Alex walked in, he took a direct interest in this.**
"As much as you're annoying, you just caught my attention," he growled at the room and walked over to where the Author was. "Wait. Is that…?!"
Possibly.
"Am I going to get a sequel?!" he gaped.
I'm digging up ideas and studying. It may be a bit, but I'm working on some possible theories.
"You're gonna have to reach out to people."
I'm well aware. Don't worry. If I want this to go right, it needs to be done right. I've been watching clips and slowly beefing up my knowledge. I may not have touched it, but that's what Youtube is for, right? I may have to get a few things down.
"Just by you saying this gives me hope," Alex grinned. "But…you're going with that?"
For now. We'll see what happens.
"And what happens with me?" Aeon asked from where he was.
You are still a work in progress. I'm doing what I can.
"I figured as much," he sighed. Alex walked over to him and sat down.
"Don't worry. I'm sure you'll have something come around. In a way, be glad it didn't happen yet! You'd be checking in for updates. As for me, I've been bitching at the Author for quite some time. I miss getting back in the fight," Alex admitted. "And if I get to kill shit that's actually worth my mettle, then why not?"
"It would be something interesting to think about," Aeon agreed. "And you haven't bothered to fight me yet. But, I don't think it would be wise to do so."
"Why's that," Alex smirked.
"I'm a guardian of time. I can freeze time and beat you with it," Aeon grinned knowingly.
"That's what we call 'playing with an extra ace'," he grunted. "Since you can freeze time, I know that trying to do anything against you isn't gonna work."
"But, you're not saying that you aren't willing to try…"
"Damn straight! Not now, though."
"Why not?"
Because I can't keep track of it right now. That's why.
"Got it," Aeon nodded.
"So, when do we meet the new characters of your new story arc, eh?" Alex asked.
I need to let them develop more. I'm sure they will come here in time.
"Now, I have to ask," Alex sighed and moved to sit by the Author. "Do you plan to kill someone off in that story at all?"
I honestly don't know. I've been toying with the idea.
"Would there be a resurrection?" Aeon asked.
I have been thinking of that. There are quite a few possibilities I can take. Warcraft is all about, well, war. Strategy. You make the wrong move, then all of your efforts are crushed.
"Sounds like a pretty brutal place," Alex mused. "I'd fit right in."
"How? By wiping out everything?" Aeon chuckled.
"Why not?" Alex grinned wickedly. "I can be the ultimate 'fuck you' to all of them."
"I would not be surprised at that," Aeon agreed.
"But, I am curious. What is on the agenda for today, Author?" he asked.
Not much, I'm afraid. Just doing some research while I can to see how to kick start a few things for you. As much as playing something through is nice, I don't have the time for it. So, I'll be watching things already done and gleaning from that. There are wiki sites, too, to go off of. Don't worry, Alex. I'm already getting a few good ideas.
"Would you post up something right away?" he asked curiously.
When it comes to you, I may wait until I have a few chapters ready to go. It will give me time to fully prepare and be ready for it. I'm not going to ask for information from others yet, though. I'm going to go through the rest of the clips that I find. I may not be able to really get much done for you until the turn of the year, too.
"That's fine. As long as I know you're cooking something up for me, then that's all I need to know," Alex nodded. "I do find it weird that you have no reviews for your latest creation, though."
I just see it as proof that I didn't mess anything up yet!
**As Alex could only laugh at that, the doors open to reveal Malthael charging in to confront the Author with a quick sprint.**
Can I help you, Malthael?
"Why did you bring that thing back?!" Malthael growled.
Because he was part of the main game. That's why.
"He will seek to endanger Anaurael!" he argued.
Think of it this way. It's a soul you can study.
"What?" Malthael asked and actually found himself curious.
He has learned how to keep himself beyond the touch of death. I can make it so that you want to learn how he has accomplished this.
"Oh. I see why you…hmm…" he now pondered.
"Who is he talking about?" Aeon asked.
"Did you read the latest chapter about Diablo yet?" Alex grinned.
"Ah! Got it," Aeon nodded.
"You will let him spill the secret?" Malthael asked.
If you know how your mind works, then tell me this. Would you willingly give over any secrets that you've learned that aid in prolonging mortal life?
"I see. Likely not. But…to study him…as he studies us…" Malthael now thought aloud. "Very well. But…will he gain an interest in Anaurael?"
Who wouldn't?
"Do not be cryptic with me!" he growled.
I'm not being cryptic. None have ever seen her like. No other children like her were birthed yet. Do you think he would pass up the chance to study her? Now, Imperius may not let him get too close at all. We know how he can be all too well.
"That we do," Malthael nodded. "Very well. I shall…relent. For now."
**Even as he left, the Author could only sigh and get back to work and typing away. Alex, however, was quite amused at the whole thing. He then decided to hit up a computer to see what he could learn to help the Author study up on what needed to be done with his sequel. Even Aeon decided to help. For what it was worth at this point.**
**Story arcs are updated. Work is being done as smoothly as possible in reality. New job responsibilities always took away from time to type, but the Author was doing everything possible on days off from work. And, with the seasonal rush finally dying down, it was sure to get a little slower until all that hype was done and over.**
This year has been a mess! Another month left, though. Should be good from there.
"Author?! You're back?!" Alex asked and fast-walked over.
Yes, I'm back. For now. Some of the things I put up with…ugh.
"That bad?" he frowned and sat down. Small whispers were done to fill him in. He whistled softly and shook his head. "Tough calls, eh?"
You could say that. I actually do enjoy my position, though. I wouldn't mind keeping it!
**The Author chuckles and looks over to see the Druid, Talarine, slowly peer in from the double-doors. She was very surprised at the room, and her blue-black hair was up in a pony-tail for now. Her dark blue eyes took in everything before her warily. She was dressed in a black dress with sequins that seemed to sparkle and glint in the light.**
"Ah…" she started.
"It's the room. Get used to it. Read the thing on the back wall. It explains everything," Alex smirked. "And this is the Author. You can come over and say hi after you read."
"What?" she seemed to glare.
Hello, Talarine! It's good to see you. Don't mind Alex all that much. He can be a bit of an asshole. He knows it.
"Author? Did you just swear about me?" Alex grinned ruefully.
It was due.
"And the Author is right, you know," Aeon grinned from where he sat. He gave a nod to Talarine and went back to browsing on the computer. At the sight of Sarine walking in from the double doors, he was quick to rise up and accept the hug she gave him. "I was wondering when you'd show up."
"I know," she smiled and kissed him softly. Then she turned and saw the new one. "Oh! Hi! My name is Sarine! How nice to meet you! I've been reading up on you here and there when I can."
"Reading up?" Talarine frowned.
"You didn't read the parchment yet, did you?" she laughed softly. "Come on! I'm sure Anaurael will come here, too, to see you."
"She comes here, too?" Talarine asked with surprise.
"All the time!" Sarine beamed. "We even have slumber parties."
"What's a…?" she started. Now Sarine's jaw dropped.
"Okay. Author?" Sarine asked.
I'm sure it will be done soon.
"Thanks!" Sarine grinned and led her new friend to the back wall.
**As she began to read, Xypherius was soon walking in with Tyrael and Imperael. The powerful angel kept his massive sword at his side, and was also led to the parchment to read up on it. Tyrael was now sitting down and chatting easily with Imperael. When he was served a slice of pizza, Alex choked down a hard laugh.**
"What is this?" Tyrael asked and eyed the slice of cheese, pepperoni and sauce on the triangular slice of bread. "It…does smell good…"
"Try it," Alex said and forced down a snicker. Tyrael eyed him warily, but he did take a bite.
"Wow! This is good!" Tyrael said with amazement.
"It's called pizza," Alex grinned.
"Is it? Oh. Wait. Didn't you tell me to eat one of these when I first saw you?" Tyrael frowned.
"I did," Alex said with a wider grin.
"Thought so," Tyrael sighed. Imperael was highly amused. At the sight of Imperius walking in with Anaurael in his arms, Tyrael was up from his chair to regard them. Imperael was content to remain seated where he was for now.
"You can put me down now," Anaurael smiled.
"No," Imperius grunted. "I feel unpleasant here. I always will. You should know this."
"I know, love," she laughed and caressed his cheek under the helm. When he sat down with her in his lap, Sarine darted over to steal a hug from her. "How have you been?"
"Not bad!" Sarine giggled. "Your friend is here, too. She's reading the parchment."
"Oh? Ah! Talarine! Wonderful," Anaurael smiled. The Druid turned and smiled softly at the golden girl. Then her jaw dropped at the sight of the Horned Reaper barging in next. He went straight to the Author to talk.
Yes, Horny? Can I help you?
"Why did you put a smart prince in? Couldn't he be an imbecile like the others?" he growled.
Well, you could say that it could be a nice challenge for you. Or for those you don't like and want to get out of the way. A certain Dark Angel maybe?
"To get out of…oh," Horny mused and grinned sadistically. "Oh, yes. I see…"
And you can test the intellect of any others, too. I also thought you'd have fun with that trophy room of the prince's, you know?
"Good to know. And yes, I have plans for that room," Horny chuckled. Then he turned to see Talarine glaring at him. "What do you want? Like what you see?"
"Saithe would be so ticked at you," Sarine giggled. Horny seemed to shrug at her.
"Demon!" Talarine seethed.
Be tolerant please. This is a place of complete neutrality.
"It's okay here," Anaurael smiled warmly. "I was unsure, too, at first. But, Anarius does approve of this place. Do not worry."
"It's…disgusting. But…" Imperius muttered. Anaurael diverted his attention softly with a kiss to placate him. Tyrael just seemed to sigh and chuckle.
"What?! But…" Talarine started. Xypherius gently put his hands on her shoulders to help keep her calm. Imperael rose up now to confront the Horned Reaper.
"Want to spar?" the massive Archangel smirked.
"Sure," Horny grinned and stepped outside to the arena with him. Talarine was just in shock at how calm the large angel was about it all. The place really was a neutral zone.
"He was setting an example," Tyrael smiled softly.
"And what is that that you're eating?" Anaurael asked at the sight of the pizza.
"Try it," Tyrael grinned. Alex coughed down his laugh. At the taste of the new food, Anaurael was amazed at the flavors. Before Imperius could ask, she pressed a kiss to his invisible mouth.
"Hmm…" he thought it over. "It's…different…"
"Isn't it?" Anaurael blushed.
"You should try edible body paint on her," Alex grinned.
"What?" Imperius asked. A drone brought over a small jar of the milk-chocolate flavored paste and opened it up for them. "What's this?"
"Dab your finger in it, smear it on her skin and lick it off," Alex grinned wickedly.
"It's edible?" Tyrael blinked. Alex gave a nod.
"Agatha's main weakness with me," he snickered. Imperius now regarded Anaurael's intensely blushing face. He screwed the cap back on, gathered up the jar and lifted her up in his arms.
"I will not do such a thing out here," Imperius muttered and went into the side room where all the private rooms were. Alex burst out into fits of laughter.
"What just…happened?" Talarine frowned. Sarine skipped over happily and softly whispered in her ear. The Druid's jaw dropped with complete shock. Xypherius was still with her, and now he had a few curious thoughts on what he overheard. Certain sauces could give the same effect. At the sight of Imperael walking back in with a chuckle, she saw the Horned Reaper with a scowl on his face.
"That wasn't fair!" Horny snapped.
"It was. You charged me and ran into my fist. It was perfectly fair," Imperael shrugged.
"You didn't even draw your weapon!" he growled.
"No need to when you run into my fist," Imperael said. Tyrael was hiding his grin from where he sat. Horny just growled and stormed out of the room. The Author could only sigh and continue to type.
"So, what are you up to?" Aeon asked Sarine when she sat in his lap.
"Not much, really. Oh! I'm about to find Gopinich!" she said.
"That's right! I'll read all about it, I'm sure," he chuckled. At the sight of Kiehl walking in, he waved a bit. "Hey there. How goes it?"
"Not too bad," Kiehl chuckled and sat down to get Sarine in his lap.
"Ah…wasn't she just with…?" Talarine started.
"I can explain," Kiehl said calmly. "Sarine belongs to multiple men. It's something she cannot control. If you find yourself bored at any point, you could come here and, eh, read on one of those."
**He pointed to the computer screens, and Talarine was simply floored with how strange all of it was. Xypherius would likely help her figure things out in time.**
"Ah, I think I'll leave now," she said timidly.
"You can come back later on. You can meet the other girls!" Sarine smiled.
"If I have time…" she started.
"Nonsense! This is a place where time doesn't matter! Trust me. You won't regret it," Sarine chuckled. She looked over and hid her blushing grin at how Anaurael looked in Imperius's arms next.
"We shall find something comparable," Imperius muttered lightly.
"Okay…" Anaurael could pant out breathlessly.
"What did you do to her?" Tyrael asked with complete amusement.
"Maybe you'll find out. Until then, this secret is mine," Imperius smirked at him and carried her out of the room. Tyrael frowned at that. Then he saw the empty jar of edible paint that was left on the table. He ran a hand over his face and laughed.
"Now we know his secret," Imperael chuckled and walked out of the room next. Tyrael finished off his pizza slice and moved out next.
"Maybe we can try something," Xypherius muttered in Talarine's ear. "Since we haven't really done much. Have we?"
"What?!" she gasped and stared at him.
"Are you saying that it isn't time yet?" he asked gently. Now she found herself a touch speechless. And, for the first time she could remember, very shy about it.
"Um…" she worried her lower lip.
"We can talk about it later," he chuckled and guided her out of the room.
"You have to go now, too?" Aeon asked with a small smile.
"I don't have to leave," Sarine winked. Alex walked over to sit with them now to share in the idle gossip. It wasn't often he got to talk to them, anyways.
**The Author continues to work and type as usual. New plots unfold and future story arcs could only start getting formed on rough templates. And, even as Alex Mercer flips off the room, he could only hope that a sequel starts for him soon.**
**Time passes, as usual, and more story arcs are updated within this time. Alex's sequel is turning into a large success, and he appears to be quite happy about that.**
"Finally!" Alex growled and sat down to look over at the Author. "I was wondering when you'd come back here. Yeah, yeah, busy with my sequel and all that. I get it. And with other shit, too…"
If you know, then why bother asking?
"Ah, because it shows I'm paying attention?" he seemed to shrug. The Author chuckles and continues to type. "And I gotta say. I'm impressed! I like where this is going so far."
As do I. However, I do need to update the other story arcs, too. I have been trying to keep up with them. It's something that can't be helped.
"Yeah, I know. Who's next on the list?" he asked.
Jack Frost is next in line. I'll have a little breathing room after that.
"Wait. If Jack's next, then why are you here? Oh. Oh! You mean…?"
Yes. The Break Room needed my attention first.
"Very sneaky. I am curious on what to find with Omega. And did you think of a name for my space station? Any interesting ideas?" he asked now.
I was thinking of various disease names. But, that would be sort of…oh…cheesy.
"Yeah. Please don't," he seemed to mutter out. "And don't name my future space club something like 'Club Herpes' or anything!"
**The Author could only laugh at that idea. Tyrael was soon walking in with a rather somber look on his face.**
"What's up?" Alex asked him.
"You brought back Cain. It's…well…mixed thoughts with me," he sighed. "I'm happy he's here, but I do worry as to what could happen now."
I can understand that. If it helps, there are some new modifications being done in your game. A new goblin may come about to give a variety of pets to us. Should such a goblin get created, it will be added to the story.
"Very interesting! But…what of the animals on Sanctuary? And of my son? There is much that I was hoping to get answered soon," Tyrael admitted.
It shall be worked on the moment I can get some time to settle in and type in full. What days off I do get have been filled with errand running and such. If it's not gaming, then it's researching what I need for various stories. It is hard to sit down and type when I want to unless I'm actually working. Even then, if it's busy, I may not get much done at all.
**The Author could only sigh at this and get back to typing out what needs to be done.**
"And it's appreciated for what you're able to do," Alex nodded. He looked over when Agatha walked in, and he was soon up at her side to pull her close. "Hey. What's up?"
"I'm worried," she frowned.
"About what?" he asked and moved to a chair to let her sit in his lap.
"It was one thing to let Robert fuck me, but now another is able to do it, too. I mean…" she started and Alex put a finger to her lips.
"You were the one that talked about female intuition," he smiled.
"I know. It's just…how many more?" she frowned.
"It doesn't have to be you. Specialized breeders can be made with other races. As for Garrus, even you know he's a bit of a special case."
"I know. He has a lot of good qualities," she agreed. "I just don't want any more."
"For you, no. There won't be any more. Two studs should be the max, and I'll make sure of that. I am curious about Mordin, though. We should give him the opportunity to gain a wife," he grinned. Tyrael was highly puzzled over all of the talk. "I finally got my sequel. Whole new game and stuff. A drone can show you the story."
"Oh! Congratulations, then!" Tyrael chuckled. "Sure, I'll go ahead and take a look."
"And I'm still waiting," Aeon sighed. "Maybe it's for the best."
"Hey. You're here. That's what counts," Alex said to him. Aeon could only nod at that reasoning. He'd likely get a story of his own in time.
I have the information I need to make the new Teen Titan story, too. I have been meaning to get to that, but I had a lot more demand for your sequel to start, Alex. I also have requests to get the last Ocean story up for Kilnak and Nichole. It's just trying to find time to get them all updated and going. I may have to simply write up a good starter outside of the online typing, but even that takes time. I just need a solid week off to get stuff done.
"Oh, get over yourself. If you had a week off, you would be playing a hidden object game," Agatha chuckled. Then she blinked. "That's what we should do! Oh! Alex! We should set up a whole line of computers in our new home with hidden object games! Especially if we make it a part of the gambling stations. We can charge for a certain amount of time on them, and we can issue a continuous fee if it goes over that time."
"That is brilliant. Fucking evil, but very, very brilliant," Alex snickered.
"We can also charge an extra fee if they want to purchase the games. With fees to update the puzzles with downloadable content," she said.
"That will always be a must. Downloaded content. A necessary evil for sure," he grinned.
"And we need to set up a bungee cord area," she giggled.
"And Harkin will be the one to test it out first," Alex snickered darkly. That got her laughing even more. "We'll even let Garrus push him off the platform."
"You know we have to do that now," she laughed softly.
"And what are you looking at?" Alex looked over at the Author. "Oh! You found a list of planets that you have to explore?"
Apparently, it is needed to find resources that are necessary to improve skills and research. Other side missions also open up to advance the game and learn new techniques. Many of these planets are too unstable for human colonization. But, a viral hive mind could adapt, evolve and use these planets for themselves. Especially for drones that don't need air.
"Ooh! Okay, I like where this is going. Where did you find the list?" he asked.
In the Mass Effect Wikipedia. There is a complete list of unexplored planets.
"Nice! Okay, so, with us here, what is the plan?" he asked. Tyrael was still reading, but he was also paying attention. Aeon was simply listening in calmly to add any ideas he might have.
I do have quite a few ideas on where this story can go. I may do a small time jump after the next chapter to get you off of the Citadel.
"Good idea," Agatha muttered.
"I wanna see what else we can fuck up in this universe. I'm already having a blast with it!" Alex snickered. "I know there are a lot of places we can go."
I was thinking about having Cronus go to the Citadel to be the representative to the hive mind while you and Agatha go elsewhere.
"What?!" Agatha gaped and started laughing hard.
"He is not a diplomat! I'd have Coeus do that," Alex said.
Good idea! He can charm them with his voice, too.
"That's an even better idea. Roll with it!" Alex grinned. "So, how are you going to be rotating out the stories?"
I need to get another chapter of yours up. Then I'll likely get Warcraft up. Diablo after that. By then, I'll need to get Jack Frost up, unless I manage to get him done next.
"Just work on him next," Agatha smiled. "I'm sure he'll appreciate it."
True. Okay. I'll do that. Ah, when did you want to help Talarine with her makeover?
At the wicked glint in Agatha's eye, Alex found himself laughing softly. "Is it another girl's night? You know that's the only way it can be done."
If Alex has no objections, then we can do that.
"It's gonna happen no matter what. Fine," he sighed.
**Invites are now sent out to the girls that came by before. Nichole, Anaurael, Saithe, Sarine and Jenna are the first to arrive. As they hugged and started to gossip, Starfire, Ambrosia and Raven were next to appear. Marjery was next to show up, and they all brought her into their happy circle of talk. Alex and Aeon were soon over where Tyrael was to watch the others.**
"Hello, girls!" Cydaea chuckled when she walked out of the side room. She was there the whole time. "I heard a commotion and had to be a part of it."
"We are waiting for Talarine," Anaurael giggled. "We are going to make her pretty."
"No! Not pretty! We will make her stunning!" Starfire beamed.
"We need to set up a spot to do this," Jenna smiled. "Who will coax her in?"
"Leave that to me," Anaurael nodded. The girls giggled and got into a relaxed role of chatter, gossip and snacking on what the drones brought them.
"Alex, you should leave," Agatha smiled.
"No. I'll go into the big boy's room," he smirked at her. At her small frown, he said, "There's gambling in there now. So that's what I'll do."
"Oh! Test out my idea for the new gambling service," she grinned.
"I can do that," he nodded, pressed a kiss to her mouth and walked out.
"I'll join him," Aeon said. He did get a tight hug from Sarine followed by a lusty kiss before he left. Tyrael decided to head back out, but Anaurael beckoned to him.
"Hey! How are you doing?" he smiled and got his kiss from her.
"I'm all right. I am curious to see how Itherael is with me. Imperius was a frightful mess!" she frowned. "He should be all right now."
"He'll be fine. Just make sure to spend some time with me, too, when you can," he soothed.
"I will," she promised and let him hold her a moment longer before letting her go to head out.
"It's tough juggling several men," Sarine sighed. "I know this all too well."
"You more than others," Agatha laughed softly.
"Keep them happy and comatose and all's well," Cydaea grinned happily.
"I can agree to that," Ambrosia winked to get them giggling.
"Where's Trish? I thought she'd be here, too?" Nichole frowned.
I think a small group to work with is just fine for now.
**The Author chuckles and types away to bring Talarine into the room. She was a touch surprised at where she was, but Anaurael was quick to move to her side.**
"Hello! We have a surprise for you," Anaurael giggled softly.
"Oh?" Talarine smiled and blinked at the sight of the makeup table. "Ah…"
"Get her!" Cydaea grinned. Agatha nodded and let her tendriled hair come to life to dart over, gather up the Druid gently and bring her over to them to get seated in the chair.
"I like that method," Saithe snickered.
"Okay, let me see," Raven said and went over Talarine's facial tones.
"I'll have more snacks set up. It's a small party, after all!" Agatha grinned.
"Anything new happen?" Nichole asked her.
"Why, yes! Alex and I finally got our sequel," Agatha beamed.
"Awesome!" Sarine said. "Any new men?"
"Funny you should ask," she grinned. Now the girls looked at her for an explanation. "It's from the Mass Effect world. Completely new to me, but the game's been around for some time. It's fun fucking with a lot of the races there and breaking all their rules and traditions! But, as for the new guy…his name is Garrus. And he's definitely proven his worth."
"We should meet him! And, Author, we still have not met the other one from your other story," Starfire seemed to sniff. Now the other girls looked at the Author.
I am aware of this. So, I'll ensure that the next time we meet here you will get to meet with Rosalia. Just remind me if I forget.
"Deal!" Nichole said.
"No. We should meet her now. It's a girl's night. It should be done," Agatha said. "Who knows when you'll be here again from all the work you do?"
Very well.
**The Author only sighs and types away to bring Rosalia forth to them. Her jade green eyes, shoulder-length dark red hair and roundish nosed face glanced around the room curiously. She was wearing her usual clothing of cotton and soft cloth, much to her delight. Agatha was the one that walked up to her with a warm smile.**
"What…was that…?!" Rosalia blinked.
"Just the room finally bringing you in for us to meet you. Come! I'll show you how this all started," Agatha said. Rosalia seemed to frown now.
"Where is Perhin? Even Illidan?" she asked.
"This is a girl's night party! No boys allowed!" Starfire giggled at her.
"A party?" she blinked.
Hello, Rosalia! I am the Author. No time is lost here at all, so enjoy yourself! You can come here to relax, mingle with others and think on what you would like to see happen next in your story arc. It's perfectly fine.
"What I want done is for Arthas to pay for what he did to my parents!" she growled.
That may or may not happen. You are pregnant now in your story arc. Do you think that anyone will let you come to a form of harm?
"Well…likely not," she admitted. "But, I still want him to answer for his misdeed."
Just remember this. With your story, everything can come with a price. So, sure, you could gain what you seek. But it may come at a cost. Sometimes the cost outweighs the gain. Personally, I don't see you ready for an encounter with Arthas. I doubt you will ever be ready.
"You don't know that," she muttered out. "And Illidan has been teaching me how to control my powers. He's been very diligent."
It's because he has to be. If one wrong thing happens, then your life would be threatened. Also, remember this. You are only a part of a Sunwell in my story arc. There are other parts out there. Some may be good. Others will be just like Arthas. It can't be helped. In time, you may meet these other parts. Or you may never meet at all. It all depends on how the words flow.
"But I just…" she started, but Agatha stopped her.
"We brought you here to relax and to have a bit of fun. Argue with the Author later. Right now, you are here to let go of your stress. Okay?" Agatha said in a soothing way. "I wanted you to be here to gain some new friends and to even expand yourself a bit more."
"Oh! Um…okay," Rosalia smiled. She did look over at the Author and say, "We aren't finished with our talk. You know that."
Of course I do. Just do as Agatha suggests. You are here to relax. We will talk in time.
"Very well," she sighed and let Agatha take her over to the back wall to read the parchment there. On gleaning the information, she giggled and said, "Illidan would be so confused by this place!"
"Many are when they first come here," Agatha agreed. "It takes a little time to get used to. Alex is always here, of course, but he's in another area for now. It's girl's night right now."
"It's amazing that there are so many other worlds and things to know out there…" she mused.
"You sound just like me when I saw a new world for the first time. I'm so glad I met you," Agatha smiled and gave her new friend a hug. "Let me introduce you to who's here!"
Rosalia was led down to the others and felt overwhelmed at the hugs and compliments she received. At being told how Talarine was being given a makeover, she found herself in awe.
"What's that?" she asked. Now she paled at the grins the others gave her. She was set down in a chair right next to Talarine. Raven was quick to evaluate her to start prettying her up.
"We need outfits," Ambrosia smiled.
"That we do!" Cydaea said with a smile.
"I have an idea! We have sparkly powder! Let's blow some on them," Starfire said.
"Glitter dust? Hmm. Okay," Raven nodded and was able to carefully blow some of the dust onto the girls to make the softly sparkle. "Very nice!"
"I think they are ready," Ambrosia nodded. "Shall they go outside?"
"I think they should. Oh! Who should see Rosalia?" Agatha asked.
That is a good question. Rosalia, would you like Perhin to see you? Or Illidan?
"Well, Illidan cannot really see me unless he is able to see through another. And Perhin…I…" she faltered and shivered. "I want him to see me."
**The Author nods and the girls rush the done up ones out to the arena. They had Rosalia go to the center first, and the Author tapped on the keys for Perhin to suddenly appear. The Blood Elf Commander was staring around with shock at where he was. Long blond hair fell over his ultra-long ears neatly, and he blinked his glowing green eyes. His red armor glistened lightly in the soft light of the moon. He looked extremely puzzled now, but his eyes moved to see Rosalia standing there in the center of the odd arena.**
"Dala'surfal? Is that you?" he asked softly.
"Yes, Perhin," she smiled. He wanted to ask about the odd voice he heard, but his attention was purely on her now. He walked right up to her to hold her close.
"Where are we?" he asked.
"Someplace safe," she said and hugged him. "I can tell you everything."
"Please do. Ah…oh! There are others?" he frowned at the sight of the giggling girls.
"My new friends! Um, come with me," she said.
"Remember. It's girl's night," Agatha chuckled. "But, we'll let you get him situated for now."
"Thank you, Agatha," Rosalia smiled.
"Who…are…?" he started. He was stunned at the beauties that lined the seating.
"I will tell you," she said and pulled him into the main room to show him the parchment.
"Okay. Talarine! Your turn," Agatha smiled.
"Must I?" she frowned. Anaurael giggled out and waved her off to get to the center of the arena.
**As she stood there under the moon, the Author began to type for Xypherius to appear. He recognized where he was right away, and his gaze moved quickly to his mate.**
"Talarine? What did they…wow…" he seemed to be speechless.
"What?" she asked softly.
"Ah…we need to go…" he muttered and pulled her into his arms.
"Nope! She is to stay here," Agatha smiled. "It's girl's night. She has to stay."
"Girl's night?" he mused.
"It's a party!" Starfire beamed.
"Don't worry," Talarine smiled. "I'll be fine."
"Very well. I'll return for you," he nodded and pressed a kiss to her mouth. He ran a hand over her belly before heading out. Now she looked at the others with a small smile.
"Why did he touch your stomach like that? Oh! Are you with child?!" Anaurael gasped. At the small nod Talarine gave, the girls squealed with joy and now surrounded her.
**As the Author continues to type away, the girls finish out their night with tales of their lives, snacking and various ideas to do for their story arcs. Alex was already impressed with how well the hidden object fees were working. The user would have to enter a method of payment into the machine in the form of a payment card of some sort, or they could punch in their direct account access for unlimited pay for as long as the funds were there. He even thought of a way to put in a daily limit for those that were on a budget, but they had the option to remind the player about it later. He was quite impressed with how all of it was going to work out.**