Spirit's Resolution: The Invasion of Mana

Latel takes 6 Dmg!

HP: 4/10

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {L} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Latel moves to D4.

Latel uses Poisontouch on Netta!  5 Dmg! (ATK) [Netta evades Poison]

SE: 9/15

Ace uses Acid Trip on Felicia! [Felicia is Hallucinating]

SE: 40/50

Ace moves to E3.

Scavenger attacks Felicia!  7 Dmg! (ATK)

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {L} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

"Wh-what the hell?  Really?  At a time like this?" the woman cursed her luck aloud, turning her head to gaze upon the viper that had seemingly melded out of the marsh flora making it seem like it appeared out of nowhere.  Chances were it had been there the whole time.  Watching.  Waiting.  Waiting for its opportunity to strike.  And it had been found.  The toxin it sprayed from its mouth worked instantly and she stumbled, trying to keep her balance desperately but it was slowly slipping away from her grasp.  It was completely hopeless.  She had to break free; she was stronger than this!

??? tries to break free of her Hallucination!

...

??? fails!

??? moves to D1.

It failed tremendously.  The toxin was working too hard and fast on her nervous system.  She was seeing pretty lights by this point.  She had to get away from the creature.  There was no doubt it would try and take advantage of her in her delirious state.  She slid backwards through the water, landing not-so-gracefully on her ass.  "This...is going to be rough."  She remembered the arrow flying out from the nearby islet.  Was there someone else there with her?  She didn't remember anyone being there before.  She tried to get a good look at the area now to no avail.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {L} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

??? will be Hallucinating for 4 more turns.

Player Phase 8!

Netta (Artificer)
HP: 23/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 4/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler)
HP: 4/10
SE: 9/15
DD: --/--
Atk: 5
Def: 1
Psy: 1
Fai: 1
Evade: 2%
Move: 2 cells

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone) *KO*

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

??? (Archmage) *MDO +10%* *MDT -10%* *MARKED* *HALLUCINATING*
HP: 16/20
MP: 44/44
DD: 6/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Claire stopped writing for but a fraction of a second as Nastasia finished her rant before continuing to write in silence.  She remained perfectly calm and quiet for quite a bit leaving the room filled with immense tension.  A few minutes passed and still she said nothing.  Vaughn just stood there, completely tensed up, waiting for the imminent rage that would actually wind up never coming.  Claire put the finishing touches on what she was writing before setting her pen down and closing one of her books.  "No worries.  I expected as much," Claire said simply before standing up.  "I suspect you were waiting on me, Vaughn?  You know we can't go into the marsh.  What has Vizorus said?"

Vaughn blushed a bit and placed a hand on his cheek.  This was completely surprising.  He at least expected to be chewed out a bit.  At the mention of Vizorus, he closed his eyes and concentrated.  "The marsh is filled with shambler activity.  Vizorus can see it, but he cannot explain why.  In any regard it's really dangerous right now...  I don't know if Netta is even alive at this point."

"We'll go to the marsh entrance later tonight and have you summon Vizorus.  Maybe Nastasia can come along?  I want her to see what it means to manifest one's Psyche.  It will be...an experience.  Is that all right with you, madame?  Have you any plans this evening?"

* * *

(Origin of the Psyche cont'd)

It is odd how the Psyche can be so powerful and yet be unaffected by the evolution of living beings.  Science can simply not explain it.  A higher power is at work, whether it be by some entity, or by the energy itself.  With Spirit being the strongest energy, it only makes sense for those who have it and those able to wield their Psyche be the dominant forces in the universe.  However, we can obviously see this is untrue.  Magical researchers wish to travel back in time and observe the growth of the Psyche, but such a feat has been rendered impossible as well.  All we have is the evidence fossilized by nature, and the illegible or unable to be translated records left by civilizations that have come and gone.  Will we ever truly understand how Psyche developed and refused to take over through evolutionary processes?  For now, all we have are theories.

Many of the theories are explained in the novel, along with other miniscule details and physical and scientific properties of Psyche.  Wolfgang tries to peruse the charts and tables along with the summaries but finds himself unable to comprehend a lot of the terminology as it is written for those who already have an understanding of this subject matter.  All that is left is to find a new book, however, Wolfgang does find himself enlightened.  What is this feeling in the depths of his mind?

>Read Creation of a Realm
>Read Rise of Cordelia
>Reading is for chumps.  Le's roll.

Nastasia blinked, her chest unmoving. How? Claire– But– What?! The manager was entirely thrown off-guard by just how casually Claire took the news. Had someone tampered with her brain? Netta was missing! In a dangerous marsh where her chances of survival were slim to none, favoring none by a large margin. Not to mention that she had been expecting this outcome! True, Netta had not adapted well whatsoever, but to expect them to lose the huntress and be totally okay with it? To not have a back-up plan just for this particular string of events? It completely blew Nastasia's mind.

Had it not been for her need to breathe, she likely would have turned blue in the face and passed out from disbelief. Instead, she took a deep inhale and exhaled with great relief. So Claire wouldn't kill them? Great! And she even had a plan to go rescue Netta! Perfect! Nastasia allowed her shoulders to sink from their tense position to one of utter free heaviness. It took her a moment to realize that Claire had asked her a question. "Huh?" she asked, blinking once again as she rewound the situation in her mind before shaking her head quickly. "Uhh... no. I don't have any plans for tonight. I can come along."

She really hoped that wouldn't be a decision she'd regret.

Wolfgang was satisfied with what he could understand, though the rest of the book looked like it was lazily filled with cut and paste citations from different texts and sources using words that sounded like they were absolutely made up for the hell of it. After the first three pages, the rest might as well have been a college paper that was half-assed for a course that was required for some Liberal Arts major. Wolfgang was done with that book; he got what he needed. With that out of the way, he could read about the history of the dimension itself. Wolfgang picked up Creation of a Realm, as it looked like the next step into figuring out why he was dragged into this world to begin with. If he could discover the origin, then perhaps he could learn the reason.

Latel takes 6 Dmg!

Latel KO!

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Ace moves to E1.

Ace begins to Devour Felicia! (1/3)

SE: 32/50

Scavenger attacks Netta!  6 Dmg! (ATK)

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Neutral Phase.

??? tries to break free of her Hallucination!

??? is successful!

??? is no longer Hallucinating!

"Serpents on ice?  Sounds like a plan."  The woman had shook her head and clearly come to her senses.  She was being eaten by a fucking snake for the sake of the gods.  Who wouldn't snap out of it?  Someone with a weak will, that's who.  But not her.  She kicked the snake in the throat and wiggled free of its unhinged jaw.  With a snap of her fingers, the air dropped in temperature rapidly.  The snake that had so viciously attacked her with hopes of getting a quick meal now became nothing more than creature preserved in a block of ice.  And now she was going to destroy it.

??? casts Flash Freeze on Ace! [Ace is Frozen]

MP: 36/44

??? waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } {N} { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

??? is Marked for 1 more turn.

Player Phase 9!

Netta (Artificer)
HP: 20/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 5/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler) *KO*

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Carrion (Shambler Drone) *KO*

Scavenger (Shambler Drone)
HP: 20/20
SE: 30/30
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 1
Fai: 2
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

??? (Archmage) *MDO +10%* *MDT -10%* *MARKED*
HP: 16/20
MP: 36/44
DD: 6/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

"Excellent.  Why don't you get changed and ready for your interview, Nastasia?  I need to talk to Vaughn alone," Claire said, making it intent that this conversation she was to have with her acquaintance would happen whether there were any objections or not.  Once the girl was out of the room, Claire focused on Vaughn, a dreadful seriousness in her voice.  "If shambler activity is up, that means the royalty have found intruders.  One usually isn't enough to stir up them up that much.  Something is going on in the marsh--something really bad.  I'm getting a really bad feeling about it.  Salari agrees.  In the waters of her goblet, she can see trouble brewing.  We might have to take a day and go into the marsh to rescue Netta, even if it means challenging Don Denne and Cassandra."

"Claire, that's visiting a death wish on everyone, us included," Vaughn countered, his voice breaking.  He was trembling so badly he had to restrain himself from falling over.  The panic could be seen in his eyes; the glimmer of fear was evident.  "Do you really think we'd walk out of the Shambler's Garden with our lives?"

"We have no other options.  Perhaps Netta was not claimed by the shamblers just yet.  It will depend on what Vizorus sees.  Between him and Salari, we should have what it takes to make it to the Garden, if the need arises.  And survive.  We cannot let Netta die," she said defiantly.  There was no way in hell she was just going to let that girl perish, even if she sounded like a brat the previous night.  She was afraid of the city and the technology and had every right to be.  But she should have stayed put.  Claire had warned the girl of the dangers of the marsh and apparently her warning fell upon deaf ears.  Now they would have to risk their lives to save her.  Claire sighed.  "If worse comes to worse, Vaughn, I can always call upon...the other one..."

"That's an even worse idea!  And what?!  Have HIM butcher us all instead?!" Vaughn nearly shouted, his voice raised way higher than he had anticipated.

"Keep your voice down," Claire just about commanded of him, seeing his lips press more tightly together, the effort to keep them closed evident upon his face.  This was good.  "It's a last option thing, Vaughn.  If we are going to die anyway, may as well pick our own poison.  I promise he'll make it painless if he does go out of control though," she tacked on nonchalantly.

* * *

Creation of a Realm

To create a realm is a daunting task.  One must possess a grasp on all five Energies and how they operate.  To allow all of them to flow through one's being without being completely torn apart pretty much separates a person from a god.  With such power at hand, one is able to weave together the fabrics of reality, space, and time, forming magnificent tapestries that serve as walls to what will become a dimension.  Afterwards, what Energies are not needed can be expelled, and a dominant Energy set into place.  This is a privilege for created realms as Mana typically claims all realms as its own having a natural dominance over all others.

Our magnificent realm of Lyreth was created in the same way by Grand Sage Cordan Coppertill, Grandmaster Julie Vandreas, Grandmaster Shelton Garner, Grand Sage Franklin Jeffers, and Grand Sage Lu Rijad who came together to form the first Cordelian Council.  These Spirit users from across the universe joined hands in weaving together the entire realm, expunging all other Energies except for Spirit such that it may have been a sanctuary for Spirit users on other worlds who were abused or exiled.  All outcasts were welcome in this soon-to-be metropolis.  As more and more people joined the Lyreth, it grew larger and larger until several huge cities had to be built with hundreds more towns were surrounding them.  Lyreth became the size of a giant country--a superpower.  It's growth was constantly monitored by the Cordelian Council, and even after the original members of the Council passed away, their descendants would take the task upon themselves to keep things running the same as they had before.

>Keep Reading
>Snoresville.  Maybe the next won't be so boring?

>Keep Reading

"O-okay," Nastasia murmured in response, giving Vaughn a look before slipping upstairs. She found her way back to her room and set the shopping bag on her bed. She stared at it. It said nothing. "Ugh!" she groaned bespectacled eyes flying back to the door. Claire had made it quite obvious she needed the room alone to speak with Vaughn, but that had not made the young sorceress any more keen on leaving. Clearly whatever was to be discussed was important and she hated to be excluded from those details––the very type of details she had dealt with for the past four years with Aaron! She almost made a move to go back downstairs, but flinched when she heard a shout.

Okay, probably not the best time, she reasoned internally, turning her attention back to the bag. She stifled a sigh. Claire had made a point, after all! Her interview was the most important thing at the moment and she needed to make sure she impressed the owner and/or manager of the establishment. Forcing a smile, she snapped and her mana reacted with zest, swirling about her in a flurry for a few seconds before she stood in her professional attire.

She wandered over to the bathroom nearby, adjusting her glasses for a moment before taking them off. Nastasia closed her eyes and muttered something under her breath, opening her eyes and blinking once more. Her vision went from blurry to just nearly clear and she smiled at her reflection in the mirror. The spell wouldn't last forever, but it would enable her to see clearly at least until tonight. Taking a brush that Claire must have had lying around for guests in hand, she went about fixing her hair, ultimately fixing it so it remained out of her face in a stylishly out of her face. "Much better," she chimed, only frowning when she realized how pale she must have looked. Maybe Claire could help?

The manager crept back over to the door, quietly straining to hear for any sign that she could return downstairs. When none greeted her she bit her lip out of habit, but decided to head on down anyway. She made sure to knock on the doorframe before approaching, allowing Claire and Vaughn to be aware of her presence. "Sorry to interrupt," she stated, fixing her skirt carefully, "but I was wondering if you could help me out, Claire?" Nastasia stepped into the room and spun around to give them the whole look, only stopping to look the Thaumaturge directly in the eyes. "Something to make me look not so... run of the mill?"

Ace is Frozen!

Scavenger takes 5 Dmg!

HP: 15/20

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Ace is Frozen!

Scavenger uses Mark Target on Netta! [Target takes 20% more damage]

SE: 24/30

Scavenger waits.

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Ace is Frozen for 2 more turns.

Neutral Phase.

??? moves to D3.

"Hey girl!  How about targeting a less threatening enemy and let me take the buzzing one," the woman called out to the other girl who was fighting the shamblers.  They were both enemies of the shamblers so might as well fight together.  Who was this girl anyway?  There was something...off about her.  Was it....could she actually be?  Yes!  It had to be!  That energy in her body--that was Mana!  How glorious!!  She knew there was a good reason to stay behind.  Wait until Randall gets a load of this, wherever that fool trundled off to, she thought in absolute glee before charging her gloves with magic.  

"Here, take some of this!" she shouted and punched the air directly in front of her allowing a blistering serpent of fire to jet out of her glove and soar through the air where it promptly found its plant-like target and coiled around it, squeezing its searing body into the body of the shambler drone.  The thing caught fire with ease.  The serpent itself dispersed but the flames lapping at the drone's body would cause its end for sure.

??? casts Pyretongue on Scavenger!  28 Fire Dmg! WEAKNESS!! (INT) [Scavenger is Burned]

MP: 28/44

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {S} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

??? is no longer Marked.

Player Phase 10!

Netta (Artificer) *MARKED*
HP: 20/25
MP: 14/20
DD: 6/10
Atk: 7
Def: 3
Int: 1
Spr: 5
Evade: 5%
Move: 4 cells

Latel (Marsh Shambler) *KO*

Peren (Marsh Shambler) *PERFECT KILL*

Ace (Masked Viper) *FROZEN*
HP: 15/15
SE: 32/50
DD: --/--
Atk: 6
Def: 2
Psy: 2
Fai: 2
Evade: 3%
Move: 4 cells

Carrion (Shambler Drone) *KO*

Scavenger (Shambler Drone) *PERFECT KILL*

??? (Archmage) *MDO +10%* *MDT -10%*
HP: 16/20
MP: 28/44
DD: 7/10
Atk: 1
Def: 3
Int: 10
Spr: 6
Evade: 3%
Move: 2 cells

{t} - Marsh Tree
[No Occupy]

{~} - Shallow Water
[Can be waded through]

* * *

Claire had been intently staring down Vaughn when Nastasia knocked.  She let her facial expression slacken a bit to seem more comfortable--like nothing was wrong.  Vaughn, on the other hand, still looked extremely upset and he turned on his heel and left the room, probably heading to the kitchen to wash up the few dishes from the morning and look for something else to snack on.  He was the sort to snack throughout the day, and with his temperament gone to hell, she was sure that some of the cakes and cookies were about to meet their maker.

"You'll have to excuse him.  He's not feeling very well," Claire stated mechanically.  It was obvious she was lying, and she cursed herself for making it so, but Nastasia didn't appear the type to be so easily fooled.  It turned out that the woman wanted some help with cosmetics.  "Hmm, I can be of assistance.  Of great assistance, at that.  Meet me in your bathroom in a couple of minutes.  I have to head to my room to get my make-up kit."  With that she excused herself and headed up the two flights of stairs in order to get to the top floor where her room was.  She entered her room and a few minutes past before she came back out with a black rectangular box.  This would do for sure.  She went down to the second floor and met up with Nastasia who was waiting for her in her bathroom.  Claire set the box on the sink countertop and opened it revealing a wide variety of make-up from lipsticks to blush to eye shadow and liner and even more.

"Listen, Nastasia," Claire spoke as she placed a hand on the woman's cheek tenderly, examining her face.  "You might think this world is a pleasant one but it is full of danger, danger that me and Vaughn at the very least might have to face in order to save Netta."  Claire reached into her box and retrieved some of her primer.  Couldn't have the make-up coming off so easily in the summer heat.  "I assumed that you might want to assist us in that endeavor along with Wolfgang, but I want you to know that I do not expect you to so easily throw your lives into danger.  If you wish to stay out of it, then you may continue to stay in the city while we search for Netta.  It is completely up to you, and a decision to not be made so lightly.  After all, you are still not assimilated as I hoped to have you.  The monsters will be harder to face; your magic will not be as effective.  These are things to keep in mind."  Claire finished applying the primer and started with the concealer, finishing up with a bit of blush.

"Your eyes are such a beautiful green.  The black will bring their true color out for sure," Claire whispered as she applied some eye shadow.  The girl's lashes were already in good shape; they only needed a touch of mascara for accent.  Claire placed everything back into her box before retrieving a gold tube.  It turned out to be red lipstick, but it was a more faint red as opposed to a vibrant ruby red like normal.  She needed to look like a professional, not a prostitute.  Claire applied the lipstick perfectly and evenly before touching her lips to Nastasia's in a very brief kiss.  "Quick drying and no smudging.  I buy the top-of-the-line stuff," Claire explained smiling before closing up her box.  "So, what do you think?  Did I do well?"

* * *

(Creation of a Realm cont'd)

In order to keep the realm stabilized, the Cordelian Council had to look after a very special item known as a Seed, effectively, the essence of a realm or dimension created outside of natural means.  That is to say that a world spontaneously created in nature or as a result of natural forces will not have a Seed.  The Seed contains powerful, deep-seated magic that is harnessed at the realm's genesis.  Those who possess the Seed possess the power to alter the fate of the realm--steering it towards prosperity or sending it spiraling into catastrophe.  With the realm a successful sanctuary, there has never been a threat of the Seed being stolen.  However, many security measures have been put into place just in the off chance that someone gets hungry for power.

Something falls out of the book and onto the desk in front of Wolfgang.  Closing the book and setting it down, he picks up the strange object.  It is a very small glass sphere with a golden spike on the top of it, and a small golden base on the bottom.  It must have taken extreme patience to craft such a trinket for as small and yet detailed as it was.

Items found:

---Blank Seed

>Read Rise of Cordelia.
>I think it's about time I hit the old dusty trail.

Nastasia frowned as Vaughn turned sharply to leave. Claire said he wasn't feeling well, but the sorceress knew far better––whatever the two had been discussing had clearly agitated the slicer. She did not go after him. Instead, she nodded to Claire, forcing her frown into a smile of thanks. "I'll see you up there," she answered, following Claire back upstairs but splitting off in order to head back into her bathroom.

Claire didn't take very long to get back to her. Nastasia stared at the black box, eyes wide in awe at all the little tubes and brushes and compacts inside. It seemed Claire wasn't lying when she said she could be of great help. Not that the manager thought the younger woman would lie to her, but she had not been expecting this! Nastasia almost said something when Claire tenderly handled her face, examining her every pore. The slightest blush crossed over the sorceress' cheeks––she suddenly felt very vulnerable but did not move. Claire's hands were soft and her touch gentle. Whatever discomfort Nastasia felt within the first few moments quickly faded, eased away by the younger girl's steady voice as she explained the situation.

Nastasia remained perfectly silent. Listening and not speaking. She allowed Claire to finish her work, shifting to get up when the thaumaturge procured a gold tube. The next couple moments threw the sorceress for a loop. The color looked nice, sure, and Claire had applied it expertly, but the light kiss she had placed on the manager's lips was another sensation all together! A first to say the least. She blinked as the younger girl pulled away from her, forcing her hands to remain at her sides despite the want to graze her painted lips. Nastasia remained frozen for several seconds before turning a little too quickly to look at herself in the mirror.

The woman in the glass was absolutely stunning. Claire had done an amazing job with all of the beauty products––nothing looked out of place! And her eyes, as the thaumaturge had mentioned, seemed so much greener than they ever had before. Unable to say anything for the longest time, Nastasia just smiled, nodding her head in approval. "Yes," she affirmed, "it looks amazing." Her grin however faded as she stared in the mirror and considered everything that Claire had told her just then. "Every world has its pleasantries," she responded quietly, shifting the conversation backward. Of course this world was nice, but that didn't mean it was a utopia. No world was without troubles. As far as she was concerned. Although she had not been anywhere else besides this dimension and her home, she knew well enough that everywhere––even crazy, otherworldly dimensions––had positives and negatives. Danger was everywhere; perfection was not.

"I'm not foolish enough to believe Lyreth is a paradise. At the same time, I'm not unaccustomed to being in a dangerous place. Although my magic isn't as strong in this realm, I refuse to let that prohibit me from doing what I want to do." Her eyes returned to Claire's, her waxing and waning determination coming back to her once more. "I don't want you two to go alone," she said quietly, "so I'm going to come with."

>Read Rise of Cordelia.

Ace takes 12 Dmg!

HP: 3/15

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Enemy Phase.

Ace is Frozen!

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{~} {~} {?} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

Ace is Frozen for 1 more turn.

Neutral Phase.

??? moves to D1.

"All right, back to the sneaky one," the woman spoke simply before sliding through the water again, landing firmly next to the snake locked within its frozen prison.  It was pretty much over.  With gloves charged with magic, she slammed into the ice block twice unleashing blasts of mana before spinning around and back-handing it with a flaming glove.  The ice melted but the snake was killed from shock and the sheer force behind the attack.  Just as planned.  This is just the beginning though.  These shamblers need to vacate this place.  I've just about had it with their mind games.  Mayhap this one would be of some help?  My Lord would not mind waiting a bit longer.  Living for centuries upon centuries sure does wonders for one's patience, she thought.  Besides, Randall's still missing too.  For my luck, the royalty has already got him locked up.  Leave it to one adept at light and fire to lose to plants that can be disintegrated by such things.

??? attacks Ace!  2 hits!  11 Dmg per hit! (INT)
---??? links Burn Blow!  12 Fire Dmg! (INT)

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{A} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

* * *

Ace takes 40 Dmg!

Ace OVERKILL!!

Netta's Chapter 00: The Marsh's Dangers

Location: Acuatl Marsh - Marsh Shallows

Objective: Defeat all enemies!

Achievement: Extra Cautious - Avoid getting affected by Acid Trip from a Masked Viper before it has revealed itself. [5 AP]

{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} A
{~} {~} { } { } { } {~} {~} {~} {~} B
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} C
{?} {~} {~} {~} {t} {~} {~} {~} {~} D
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} E
{~} { } {N} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} {~} F
{~} { } {t} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } G
{~} { } { } {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } H
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } {t} { } { } I
{~} {~} {~} {~} {~} { } { } { } { } J
-1---2---3---4---5---6---7---8---9

All enemies have been defeated!
CHAPTER COMPLETE!!

EXPERIENCE:

+5 - Masked Viper x1 OVERKILL
+4 - Shambler Drone x1 PERFECT KILL
+2 - Shambler Drone x1
+2 - Marsh Shambler x1 PERFECT KILL
+2 - No D-Abilities used
+2 - No Player Character KO
+2 - No Items used
+1 - Marsh Shambler x1

TOTAL EXP GAIN: 20

Netta: 0/16 --- 20/16
Level UP!
3 Stat Points gained!
Next Level: 4/24
Current DD: 7/10

Skill Points Awarded!

+1: Netta

Achievement SUCCESS!! [+5 AP]

The Party finds 22 Coin!

Items found:

---Hallucinogen x1
---Petal Wing x1
---Slimy Seed x1
---Sticky Petal x2
---Thick Vine x2

Edit your profiles, please~  Update will come shortly.

* * *

Claire felt her heart warm at Nastasia's response.  It was one that she wasn't truly expecting.  How could this perfect stranger be expected to risk life and limb to save another stranger?  To have such kind people from the otherworlds here in this dimension...it made her almost forget how much discrimination there was abound outside of Lyreth.  But perhaps not all beings were such bigots.  It was evident in Wolfgang, Nastasia, and even Netta.  All were kind souls.  What if someone evil had breached the dimension?  That would lead to nothing but agony.  They were sure to try and find some way to put an end to the sanctuary of the Spirit users.  That thought infuriated her.  If someone ever tried to put her home at risk, she would be sure to rise up and give them a true taste of Spirit--quite literally.

"That means a lot to me.  When the time comes, I hope you are prepared.  Depending on what we find out tonight, we may just go ahead and disembark tomorrow," Claire explained, taking her black box and heading for the doorway.  "In the meantime, go stun those fellows at the restaurant.  You'd rather be late than early.  If you need a guide, ask Vaughn.  He should still be in the kitchen stuffing his face.  Until next time," she said and left the room, bidding her farewell while imagining what kind of snacks Vaughn was getting into on the ground floor.

*Nastasia will be heading to the Acuatl Marsh with Vaughn and Claire on the night of 6/5/2245.

* * *

"If you want to learn more about Cordelia, you should probably go there yourself," a silky male voice sounded from behind Wolfgang.  An arm reached over him and the book was plucked from his hands.  Turning around, Wolfgang would see a fairly tall individual, a guy in his mid-20s at least.  He had the book in one hand, open and mock-reading, his crimson eyes moving from side to side as he scanned the words written upon the pages.  His hands were covered with fancy white gloves in pristine condition.  His dark gray trousers were straight and free of wrinkles.  He wore a long-sleeved white dress shirt and a red bow-tie with a dark gray vest over the shirt, the black buttons done up nicely.  His hair was an enchanting blue, reminiscent of the sea and obviously unnatural.  It was long, the longest strand going down past his neck while the rest stayed back at about the bottom of the neck, and out of control in a way that actually made it look quite nice, each out of place curl seemingly not so out of place as one might think.  The man reached into his pocket and pulled out two things: one was a train ticket to apparently the Ancient Capitol of Cordelia and the other was a slip of paper with a number, presumably a phone number, elegantly scrawled upon it.

"There, that ticket there is your key to a wealth of knowledge that cannot be contained in mere pages," the man explained, tossing the book over his shoulder.  Oddly enough, there was no thump from where it would have landed.  Where did it go?  "Today's not a good day to go; you've wasted away your day here in a dreary library, but should you deign to use that ticket on another day, give me a call.  I wish to accompany you.  After all, you'll need a guide in a city you've never been to, right?  At least, I assume you've never been if you're here reading a book about it."  The man chuckled and turned around.  "Matthias Loreman.  A pleasure, dear sir.  Perhaps we can become...friends?"  Again, the man chuckled as he walked away, waving farewell to his new acquaintance.

What the hell just happened?

Items found:

---Train Ticket: Cordelia (Personal)
---Matthias's Number (Personal; 8.943.8223)

>Well damn, there goes that book. Guess it's time to go.

He should have known. There were strange people in this library with no sense of decorum and the nerve to hand him their number like he actually wanted to call them. How did this Matthias person know that Wolfgang spent most of the entirety of the day in this library? Had he been watching him the whole time? If that were the case, then his time was more of a waste, not to mention doing something like that would be undoubtedly considered creepy in several dimensions. Wolfgang said not a word and merely glared at Matthias and his stupid face as Matthias waved and walked away. Like hell Wolfgang would ever want to visit Cordelia with that man, let alone share the same train ride with him. What was it about Wolfgang that made so many people interested and drawn to him?

Wolfgang planned on visiting Cordelia at some point, but not with that man. He pocketed the peculiar object that fell from the previous book along with the train ticket, and glanced over at the phone number with a scoff. Even the handwriting reeked of the sheer douchiness that emanated from the man. Wolfgang figured he could give the number to Claire and tell her to call him, just to mess with him for a good laugh. Wolfgang considered looking around the library to see what else it had to offer him, but he had already spent enough time here. He rose from his seat and stretched, before he exited the building and headed towards Starlights for his "totally-not-a-date".

He definitely needed a break after having met so many people in one day; a lifetime record for Wolfgang. He stepped outside the library, noticing the sky had turned significantly darker from when he first arrived. Grabbing another cigarette from his pack, Wolfgang lit it up and enjoyed it as he watched the view. After putting it out, Wolfgang would begin heading towards Starlights where Sasha was probably waiting. He had known the way since he passed by it on the way to the library.

Nastasia nodded at Claire as she left, unable to hold back her smile––even if things hadn't gone for the best so far, now was her chance to turn it all around. The Thaumaturge was right! There was no time to sit around and wait to help Netta and she would surely be able to wow the interviewer at the restaurant. All she had to do now was to get there early and the only way to do that would be to find Vaughn as Claire had suggested. The young sorceress quickly descended the stairs and wound her way back around to the kitchen, knocking once again to let Vaughn know she was coming. "Vaughn? Could you... take me to the restaurant? I don't want to get lost..."

The marsh became quiet once more, or at least as quiet as it typically was. One had to look past the splashing water as fish popped to the surface, the steady hum of marsh insects, and the occasional call or roar of birds or a far off beast deeper in the marsh. The woman stood there in front of the destroyed viper. She was able to harvest the poison from it but wasn't able to salvage much else. The strange pale green liquid just about filled the small vial she had on her person. She walked over to the other girl and presented it to her. "Here, you can have this. I don't have any need of it nor would I know what to really do with it," she said but then gave the girl a smile. "Nice shooting out there, by the way. A huntress worth her merit, I'm sure. My name is Felicia. Felicia Auburne to be precise. May ask your name?"

* * *

Vaughn had went into the kitchen and looked in a porcelain jar on the countertop to find a decent stash of chocolate chip cookies. He didn't waste any time in digging into them, shoving one after another into his mouth. A knock on the door alerted him but it was too late. Nastasia would walk in on him hunched over the jar with a cookie in his mouth and his hands covered in chocolate and crumbs. He regretted that the woman had to see him like this but he had...some issues that needed resolving. He was aware of this. He set the jar down on the counter and remained silent as he went over to the sink to wash his hands, drying them off with a paper towel from the roll nearby.

"Sure, I don't mind guiding you. Let's...uh, let's just go..." he said strangely, sparing one last glance to the cookie jar before departing the kitchen and the townhouse altogether as soon as he was sure Nastasia was coming with him. Claire had really done a number on her; she looked absolutely stunning. The duo boarded the speed train that would take them to the North District. "You look positively beautiful, Nastasia. I think you're gonna knock 'em dead," Vaughn commented lightly with a warm smile as he gazed out the window. He wanted to avoid staring. The train came its stop but they still had to walk a little ways to get to the restaurant which actually turned out to be decently sized and unbelievably gaudy. It was built in an oriental style but the place was surrounded with flashing neon lights of blue, purple, green and pink colors. There was a red archway erected where the front door was, and inside was nothing but dark woody colors, golds, and reds--almost typical and expected. Vaughn was going to go in with Nastasia, but figured it would probably be best if she entered herself.

"Do you think you could get home on your own? If not just ask to use their phone. My number is 2.443.9216. Just give me a call and I'll come and pick you up all right?"

* * *

"Look at you being all early," a female voice rang out as Wolfgang approached the practically hole in the wall club. The doors were open and inviting. Much to many people's delights, fine jazz music was pouring out along with the smell of smoke and booze. It was like a swanky club from back in time. Sasha Desante approached Wolfgang and gave him a surprise hug. She was dressed in a long green strapless dress with glimmering jewels. She wore black stockings to match her solid black stilettos that she walked so effortlessly upon. There were gold bands on her fingers and a golden necklace hanging about her neck with a strange wing upon it carved out of what appeared to be an amethyst gemstone. "I see you're not the type to dress up, mister," she teased as she gave Wolfgang an up and down. Her blonde hair obscured one of her eyes which were about as green as her dress. The hair contrasted her darker skin. One would wonder if it were natural or not.

Sasha took in a deep breath of the air. The aromas were tantalizing. She loved coming here even though she didn't smoke herself. There was something about the atmosphere that was so alluring and irresistible. "Come, let's go inside shall we? I know you could probably go for a drink." She tenderly took his hand and pulled him along. There was a pretty fat bouncer guarding the entrance but he didn't spare Wolfgang and Sasha a second glance. Sasha was a regular and Wolfgang looked of age, not that the age limit was particularly high. The inside of the club was gorgeous and elegant--the ceiling was painted like outer space with spotlights and other lights dotting the black expanse like stars. The walls were a midnight blue mixed with violet and tinges of orange around the bottom. The bar was directly across the way, lit up with cosmic colors--enticing creamy whites, pale purples, and ominous grays. The shelves behind were stocked full of alcohol and clean glasses just waiting for someone to partake. Sasha took a seat on one of the stools, the red cushion beyond comfortable to rest upon. She patted the stool next to her and eyed the bartender who was busy with another customer.

"Come take a seat and tell me how your day was," she said happily. She usually took a seat in the lounge to get a look at the stage where the live music played, but for now she was content to be at the bar. She was definitely going to have a drink. She only came about once a week on Fridays, so today was a special case. She just couldn't resist stopping by; Wolfgang gave her the perfect reason to do so, and she was happy to have his company, and even more happier and eager to learn more about him.

Nastasia wanted to blush. She did blush. The makeup Claire had so expertly applied hid it, however, so she merely smiled at Vaughn when he complimented her. "Thank you, " she said sincerely, taking a second to smooth out her blouse as they exited the train. She felt thankful that Vaughn seemed to be feeling better as he gave her his number. The sight she had seen in the kitchen had not been a pretty one. I hope he'll be alright, she thought to herself as she waved him off, assuring him that she could get home this time. She only turned around to enter the gaudy restaurant after he was gone––the hopeful hostess-to-be approached the podium where one of the workers was standing. "Hi, may I speak with a manager? I came for an interview about the hostess position."

The hug had caught Wolfgang off guard as he tensed up and almost instinctively reached for his shock baton when he thought he was being attacked. When he had realized it was Sasha, he calmed himself. The gesture was bold and unexpected, and Wolfgang did not understand it. To put it more accurately, he simply didn't know why it was directed at him. "Dress up? That implies formality, and I find formal events to be a little too stressful. I came here to unwind, remember?" Wolfgang replied in response to her comment, failing to mention that the clothes on his back were the only ones he had at the moment. He still felt somewhat irresponsible on his part, not taking the time to go out and buy newer clothes for an impression, but that would have meant that he actually cared.

Wolfgang didn't like being too much of an open book to people he himself didn't know too well, and often found himself playing an aloof angle. With his hands nonchalantly resting in his pockets, Wolfgang followed Sasha into Starlights, and stopping at the doorway momentarily to take in the sight of the interior view before taking the bar stool next to her. "This really is quite a joint, looks like someone has a high-class taste," Wolfgang remarked, glancing over at the lounge. "It's different from my usual kinda place in a dimly lit bar where I can shoot the pool cue, but it's classy. I like it."

He swept aside the unruly bangs of his hair from his face and motioned for the barkeeper's attention before turning his own attention to Sasha wanting to know how his day went. Wolfgang proceeded to indulge her. "Well, this morning I answered an ad in the paper for a housesitting gig and I start Friday. Most of my day wasn't interesting really; I actually spent half the time at the library reading books until some weirdo came up to me and tossed the book I was holding. Who even does that?" It was almost physically painful to relive the moment in his mind. "I think... he might of been coming on to me, I don't know. He gave me this train ticket and wants me to go with him to Cordelia. I can still remember that snobby voice," Wolfgang then heightened the pitch of his voice to give the man a most unflattering impression. "Heh, I'm Matthias and I like to watch people in libraries all day and stalk them to throw their books. You should totally go on a train ride with me beCAUSE I HAVE NO FRIENDS, PROBABLY DUE TO THE FACT THAT I'M A CREEPY FUCK AND I PROBABLY BREAK INTO HOUSES AND DRAG MY ARMPIT HAIR ACROSS PEOPLES FACES WHILE THEY'RE SLEEPING!" He had to clear his throat to excuse himself for making that last outburst, but afterwards turned to face Sasha. "Yeah, I could definitely use that drink right about now. Anyway, how was work? Did it 'exceed' your expectations?"

"A pleasure to meet you, Natalia," Felicia was quick to respond warmly, though she noticed quite easily that the other girl was being quite distant. True, they were still strangers essentially, but how else were they supposed to come to get along if they did not speak and be willing to get to know one another? Felicia was going to chalk this one up as a lack of overall social interaction. After all, this girl looked like she was from a primitive world--definitely not one that was modern like Lyreth. When Felicia had first arrived, she could not believe her eyes at what these people called "technology." She knew magic, and magic was rampant in her home world, but coming here was mystical in its own right. As out of place as she was, she knew that she could get used to it and actually come to love it. This girl, on the other hand....she just needed to go home. But she was a good shot; she would be useful to her Lord.

"I was going to go deeper into the marsh. The shambler royalty have placed a challenge that is rather tempting. I'm set to torch their Garden. Would you like to come along? There are rare plants and the like in the Garden that you could collect. I heard some were amazing for elixirs and some were of such good quality that they could be fashioned into clothing," Felicia explained. She was confident in her abilities, but the leaders of the shamblers had an army at their disposal and she was just one person. It wasn't like two people would fare any better, but Randall was out there somewhere. She needed to give him a call; he had been gone for far too long. There was no telling what sort of trouble he wound up getting caught up in.

* * *

The well-dressed woman behind the podium nodded to Nastasia. "Yes, our manager is waiting in his office. Follow me." The woman waved Nastasia along and guided her to the buffet line and beyond it to the kitchen. Inside were quite a few cooks dashing about and preparing food, never faltering in the least bit. It was easy to tell that they were all hard workers. Whoever this manager was had picked the right people. The woman came to a solid white door with a little window on it, but it was impossible to see anything through it. "Mr. Chang, the girl is here for the interview."

There came a loud bang from inside the room that was presumably the manager's office. Upon close inspection there was a tiny golden nameplate on the door that read "Xian Wi Chang - Restaurant Manager." "Yah yah one second!" the harsh voice rang out loudly from inside, and Nastasia would easily recognize it as the same voice that had answered the phone earlier when she called. "What you wait for? Door unlocked! You come in now!" the man shouted angril from inside. The female employee opened the door for Nastasia and wished her luck. The man, Mr. Chang, gestured to a metal fold-out chair sitting in front of his immensely cluttered desk. The man himself was rather short with short black hair that had a bit of sheen to it. His squinty black eyes were honed in on Nastasia as soon as she stepped foot into the room, taking all of her in and inspecting her from top to bottom from her physical appearance to the way she carried herself when she walked, to the way she sat down in the chair. Every detail was important.

"So why you want job? What make you think you be good hostess here?" the man was quick to start the interrogation. He knew what had to be asked. He wanted to know what she had to say.

* * *

Sasha listened intently to Wolfgang. He had a valid point about being dressed down. He did state that he wanted to come here to relax, and she wanted for him to feel relaxed. She waved down the bartender as she listened. He was still busy but acknowledged their presence; he was sure to be with them shortly. Something caught Sasha's attention, however, and that was the name that Wolfgang had mentioned. Matthias. Where did she know that name from? She was sure that she had heard it somewhere before...and if she did, was it a good thing or a bad thing? From what Wolfgang told her, it had to have been bad. He sounded like a real creep. "I am greatly sorry that you had to deal with that. I didn't take you to be the type to be so studious, however," she said slyly giving him a smile.

"Let me tell you that nothing exceeds getting out of that place," Sasha stated flatly. She made it perfectly obvious by the discontent look on her face that she did not like working there. "I moved here because there weren't any jobs for me back in my home area of Atelya. I only chose Exceed because I could do the job and they pay well for it just being a job as a gas station customer service representative. Easy work and high pay. What else could you ask for? I mean the boss is strict but kind-hearted. Never had a problem with my co-workers either. I can't really complain."

"Sorry about the delay; what can I get for you?" the ruggedly handsome bartender spoke up suddenly. He wiped his forehead with a rag. The Wednesday crowd was apparently running him ragged. His black beard and mustache glistened with as much sweat as could be seen on his forehead, at least prior to the wiping. One could only hope he didn't clean glasses with that rag. "What can I get for you?"

"I'll have the usual, Russ. Atelyan Sunset. No help tonight?"

"Unexpected. Garvin Darrus came to play some jazz tonight by surprise and drew in pretty much everyone in a ten block radius. We're definitely short of help." The man scrutinized Wolfgang. "So...is this your date? It's been a long time since you've brought someone here."

"Nah, he's new to the city and wanted somewhere to unwind," Sasha explained with a giggle. "What are you going to have, Wolfgang? Something strong?"

>Give me the strongest you've got.
>Something moderately strong will suit me.
>I'm a complete lightweight; better go easy tonight.

Nastasia smiled appreciatively as the woman behind the podium led her to the back of the restaurant and through the kitchen. She silently noted how diligently they worked. Their movements precise, leaving not a single second to be wasted. It was almost a dance in a manner of speaking. Her thoughts, however, were jostled as the manager shouted from inside of his office, urging them to come in rather harshly. Nastasia's lips twitched downward for a fraction of a second before she put on a determined, yet classy grin. She nodded quickly in thanks to the woman that had led her in and swiftly settled herself in the chair that Mr. Chang offered to her. She sat with poise, looking Mr. Chang directly in the eyes.

"I'm new to Myridan, sir. I'm trying to start my life here in the city," she began truthfully, making sure her voice was crisp and clear. "Before I got here I helped manage a friend's dance career, specifically his public events, classes, and the booking of his gigs." Nastasia's eyes lit up at the memory of some of the people she had been put into contact with, people who she had negotiated with. Royalty. Kings, Queens, Dukes, Counts. There had also been countless tavern owners, festival runners, and civilians whom Aaron had performed for––albeit some out of charity. She reigned herself in, however, before she could get carried away with her thoughts, sending Mr. Chang a charming smile. "Between negotiations and meetings, I have a wealth of experience dealing with people as a result," she explained confidently. "I'm incredibly organized, diligent, and professional. Customer satisfaction was a top priority. It still is." Nastasia paused briefly, giving the man a few seconds to take all of her information in. "I'd like to continue forward. I fully believe that my work history and attitude would fit in well here."

"Vodka Martini," Wolfgang ordered with stern authority. "Shaken, not stirred." He was always so bewildered at the fact that nobody ever expected him to be the bookworm type. "Of course I like to read," Wolfgang admitted, being absolutely sincere. "With the kinds of lives humanity leads, sometimes you just want to take a break and escape from reality for just a little while. Books are one of two ways you can really do that, and the other... well... you know..." Wolfgang looked over at Sasha's drink. "While we're on the topic of books and by extension how you should never judge them by their cover, I never would've figured you for the kind of person that would hate their job," he picked up, genuinely curious. "Especially with that whole cheery act you put up when I saw you a couple of hours ago. I mean, if that's the way Exceed employees are, I'd really hate to imagine the guy at the counter off of work. He could be a psychotic murderer and we'd be none the wiser!"

Wolfgang mused at the thought of Smiley McGladdenfuck brandishing a hatchet and committing a chain of homicides, although it would make so much sense. "If you don't mind me asking, what is it you really want to do if you don't want to be stuck working at a gas station - and I can't imagine anyone that would, but still?" Wolfgang questioned, as knowing what Sasha yearned for would help him better understand her as a person. "Up until a few days ago, I thought I had the answer working the daily grind and saving up for a nice retirement fund, but ever since I came here it got me thinkin' a little... and now, I'm not so sure."

Felicia just gazed at the girl, amused. This Natalia hadn't said anything at all to her offer, and looked like she was about to bolt. Now, the question was whether to let her go or put her on ice as she had with the serpent. The latter seemed easy enough, but she didn't think her Lord would appreciate that much. Doing it like that would just create problems later. She figured it was best just to let her go even if it meant the girl's possible death. What a shame. "Listen, girl! I would not take this marsh so lightly. If you choose to not go with me, your death becomes way more likely. I will not be around to save you again." Felicia wondered if the huntress, albeit extremely skilled, would be so arrogant as to think that she could have taken the drones on her own, let alone the serpent that had been in hiding. "This is your only chance at guaranteed safety. So, what will it be?"

>Safety.
>Blatant disregard for one's own well-being.

* * *

The restaurant manager didn't smile, but there was a general air of satisfaction about him. This woman was impressive. He didn't think he would run into someone like this so soon after posting his ad. There was a lot of potential in her, especially since she had management experience. She would be able to handle the customers and they were generally easy to handle as it was. This was a shoo-in for sure. "Very well put! What your name again? Not sure if ever got it," the man asked simply. He searched through some of the paperwork on his desk until he found what he was looking for. He began filling out some sort of form while awaiting an answer.

* * *

"Coming right up, you two," Russ, the bartender, said with a firm nod before setting about fetching the drinks.

It seemed as though Wolfgang was surprised that he didn't appear to be the type to read, but what he spoke of books was absolutely fascinating to Sasha, and so very true. They were like a different world of their own--an escape from reality. Some chose to get wasted, and others chose to lose themselves in a story. Wolfgang seemed to be a bit of both, maybe not getting wasted but something about a nice alcoholic beverage and a good book sounded amazing. Before she knew it, the tables were turned on her. Wolfgang pointed out that she didn't seem the type to hate her job. Did she hate working at Exceed? That might have been an extreme word, but she certainly didn't want to be there for the rest of her life. She was young and there was a whole dimension to see!

"It's not really an act. I'm a nice person; I just push it over the top like the employers want," Sasha explained with a shrug. "And believe it or not, Smiley is like that all the time. It's just his personality. Is he harboring some sort of psychotic problem deep within his mind? Maybe." Here she covered her mouth as she chuckled. Russ came by and dropped their drinks off. Sasha's Atelyan Sunset was beautifully presented and mixed, layers of violet, blue, and orange stacked together with a little umbrella poking out of the top of the glass. She took the tip of the umbrella and used the shaft to stir the drink a bit, the layers of color not mixing together at all. It kept its uniformity and she smiled sadly. "You know, I don't know what I want to do with my life. To tell you the truth, I'm...I'm running away from something that's a set part of my life. I told you I moved here. The place I used to live was a place called Atelya. It's on an island to the south, right up against the south border of the dimension. Things are...different there. Not bad, but it is an island steeped in legend and history. The people there hold strong to their traditions. I couldn't take it, so I fled. No one would hire me there, with what little jobs there were. I had to come here to make my living--to start my life. But I did not know where the currents of life were taking me, and even now I cannot take control. I do not know where to start..." She paused and abruptly stopped stirring her drink. Even after all of that it kept its uniformity. She raised the glass to her lips and closed her eyes. It tasted like home.

Nastasia blushed out of embarrassment, although she had to count her lucky stars for Claire's cosmetics kept it from showing. This was the second person in a row she had forgotten to give her name to! She was lucky that Mr. Chang appeared quite impressed with her otherwise that slip up would have been terrible! "My name is Nastasia, sir," she answered cheerfully, offering him yet another smile. It was at that very moment that it struck her that perhaps her name might pose a problem––Claire had been able to pronounce it easily enough, but the sorceress remembered several clients who had been unable to say it in the past. She quickly added, "but I've gone by Ana before, if you'd prefer to call me that."