Hibiki woke up with a start. She didn't even remember what happened yesterday. All she could say for certain was that she never made it to the Black City. She hoped she didn't get killed, though since she has never killed anything ever since she started playing, she didn't think she would lose out on any EXP. She also remembered Yoshino's announcement that Deep Ground was going to be shutdown for a while. Hibiki didn't mind too terribly, it wasn't really getting fun for her yet. She got out of bed and washed up. Soon she went into the kitchen and prepared herself something to eat: Fried eggs and toast. She also made some sandwiches for lunch. Once she finished doing all of that she was about to leave when she heard her mother calling out for her. "Mama?"

"Have a fun day at school! I love you!"

"I love you too mom! See you later!"

It was a bit of a walk to school but Hibiki didn't mind. There were plenty of other people to walk with and she knew some friends who would normally wait for her. She met up with them and lingered on the side. It wasn't that she wasn't social, but Hibiki just didn't really know what to say or when to chime in. Hibiki started to wonder though: Who was the Unrelenting Jukebox? And why was he helping her? She really hoped he wasn't a creeper. Looking at her hand Hibiki pretended to claw the air. She didn't have her cat cut, so she doubt her small hands could hurt anyone. Sighing Hibiki just walked with her friends towards school.

Idle chatter filled Emma's head. The conversation seemed almost random, moving in crazy tangents. That's how it always was around close friends. She wasn't really participating, only chiming in occasionally, until something caught her ears. "So you guys know all those new students coming in today? Let's just say I made sure there wouldn't be any maps available at the front office. They're probably all lost." The person who said it giggled. That person was one of Emma's closest friends, Izumi. It was very typical of her to do something like that. She had a rather devious streak, but meant well. Emma swore to herself to be the 'angel on her shoulder', so to speak. Emma shook her head, "That's just cruel. Shouldn't it be our job to show them around? They're probably stressed out enough as is." Izumi rebuked, "You are so uptight! I'm just trying to have fun." Emma sighed. "I can't believe you'd do something like that. How'd you even manage to do that? You better not be planning anything else, because I'm going to go to the front and make sure no one is lost." Emma turned to the rest of the group. "You guys better make sure she doesn't run off!" She stuck out her tongue mockingly at Izumi, who merely threw up her arms in exasperation, everyone else laughing as Emma departed.

Emma progressed towards the front of the building, lost in thought again, That girl is such a handful. I wonder what the Black King is like out of DGO? Probably a loner, being realistic. Or maybe someone to busy for friend, like a certain Class President... She realized that she never played DGO with any of her real friends, so realistically she might even know her. She liked to keep her virtual 'life' and her real one separate, since conflicts could cross between the two. Could the Black King be Izumu? Incredibly unlikely. It could be one of my other friends though. She mentally made a list of all the girls she knew, pondering over their potential as the enigmatic Black King. She suddenly took pause. Or what if it's a guy playing as a girl? Virtual Reality is so annoying... She gave up on the ridiculous train of thought. Like I already assumed, the Black King probably keeps to themselves. This is just silly. As she walked to the front music began playing from the PA. Really? This wasn't her doing to, was it? The girl shook her head.

She reached the front of the school. I can't believe I came out here just to make sure no one falls for Izumi's schemes... well, I guess it's the nice thing to do anyways. She took a look around for any of the new students. It wasn't really her job, but she still felt in some way responsible for them. Sure enough there was a lost looking blue-haired girl standing around with a suitcase, looking lost. I came all the way down here to check, I guess I'm obliged to help her. Emma strode over to the girl, waving. She smiled warmly at the girl. "Excuse me! You look lost, are you a new student? Do you need me to show you around?"

@Optio

"This idiot!"

Retsu knew she couldn't stop. At best she could run this guy over, but that would only soften their landing a little bit. Retsu had no choice but to bail. But not without Yoshino. As the bike bounced uncontrollably, Retsu threw one leg over the bike and jumped onto the ground. Her hands lashed out and grabbed Yoshino before she was carried away by her wayward vehicle and they both landed in a bush. Retsu had put herself underneath Yoshino to cushion her fall, at the price of cutting up her back, arms, and head. "Ow..."

"EHhhh! S-sorry, I'm sooo sorry. A-Are you two okay? Do I need to get the nurse?"

Carefully, Retsu helped Yoshino to her feet. The red haired girl glared at Morgan. This... Person was going to get a sever beating. But Retsu calmed herself before she raised a hand. She dusted off her skirt and uniform, noting that her sleeves were torn and she was bleeding. Sighing she looked over to Morgan. "Give me your shirt. Actually," Retsu walked up to Morgan, grabbing the fool by the collar. A swift pull and she ripped Morgan's shirt right off his back. She then used the shirt to bandage her wounds. "What are you doing here? Nevermind, we need to get to school. You can get a new shirt at the school store. Get going." Retsu's voice spoke with an angry authority, as if she wasn't so much trying to order him around but put her own fury at peace. Turning to Yoshino Retsu made sure she wasn't injured. "You alright?"

Erika's breath hitched as her glasses were slid back onto her face. When Yuuki sat back down, her face turned back to its original shade of red. She couldn't help noticing how cute Yuuki was. So helpful, so kind, not to mention she'd spent the night with---GAH what was she thinking?! A little steam came off Erika's face as she quickly pounded down the breakfast, raising the bowl up to her face and her chopsticks going a million miles a minute. She had the urge to bolt out of there. That towel only covered so much bare skin...

She put the bowl down and exhaled, having forgotten to breath in her mad dash. She wound up panting for a moment before looking up... and averting her eyes to the window, pretending to be interested in a bird or something. Erika scratched at her cheek awkwardly, a small blush resting on her cheeks, her larger one thankfully dialed back a bit. Her glasses, however, had fogged up.

"T-T-Thank you for breakfast..."

It had honestly been delicious. Considering the Mitsuki family usually had a live-in chef too, that was saying something. She cleared her throat and looked back at Yuuki, keeping her eyes abooooove the shoulders. Yep, just, keep those eyes trained right there and... and... her eyes wandered. Of course they wandered, damn traitorous eyeballs. She wound up looking at Yuuki's chest in curiosity and some sort of mild longing... wait... Her pupils shrank and a bead of sweat trailed down the back of her neck. She could practically hear the sound of glass shattering behind her. Am I gay or something?! Her thoughts screeched in her head and her thoughts raced a million miles an hour, seeing the disappointed look on her parents face, the mild teasing of her brother, all the looks as she walked with whoever would be her girlfriend, the gay pride parades, recording videos for the internet about her love life. Yes, her entire possible gay life flashed before her eyes and her heart sank as she--

Oh wait. No, she was pretty attracted to men. The Red King in particular really held her fancy too. Phew. A bisexual life would be way easier.

“Oof!”

Yoshino had braced herself, preparing for the worst as their bike swiveled out of control and they crashed right into the unfortunate student. That didn’t quite happen though as the Student President landed on something soft and just a bit too comfortable. Her head spinning, she realized that Retsu had somehow managed to grab her and act as a makeshift cushion as they fell. Needless to say, Yoshino appreciated the gesture and quickly rolled off for Retsu's accomodation.

The Student President nodded gratefully as Retsu helped her up first before getting a good look at their living obstacle. As the redhead began to harshly interrogate their fellow student, Yoshino narrowed her eyes and stared at who she figured out to be Morgan Hazelnut. A person whose gender was debatable at best, though Yoshino knew without a doubt. It was part of her job as Student President after all. Then she caught wind of the music blasting out of the PA systems and her frown deepened.

“You may want to listen to my partner here Miss Hazelnut,” Yoshino said coolly, unaffected by Retsu’s thorough and rough treating of the boy or girl. “And I expect to see you in my office during lunch to discuss why you were prowling about the Rules and Administration Office so close to the school bell ringing. Unless of course, you were thinking of skipping school today? In which case, I’d like to see you immediately.”

Yoshino’s tone was quieter than Retsu’s but it still held the same authority, if not more so because of her nature and status. Watching Morgan go, Yoshino readjusted her slightly crooked glasses before turning back to her new friend. Yes, she could definitely see the two of them getting along further in the near future.

“I could ask the same about you,” she answered Retsu’s question, concern in her voice. “I’m fine, but you didn’t have to do that Retsu. I can handle a few scrapes…and I swear, I’m going to expel whoever decided to put that annoying song on the intercom.”

The Student President motioned for Retsu to follow her as she lifted up the discarded bike and began to gently guide it towards the school. Honestly, a prank this early in the morning? No doubt the other members of the Council were having a fit over this. Still, it did explain the rather odd sight of dancing boys in the street earlier. Weird.

“Are you sure you’re alright Retsu? You should probably head to the nurse like Morgan said, just in case.”

Morgan didn't understand why the red head was so violent, but she was undoubtedly the wrong person to have a fateful encounter with. Though, as menacing as she was, she did, at least, have enough self-control to not pummel the 13 year old. Still, Morgan couldn't do anything but watch in horror as the bully ripped the shirt straight off, to use as a make-shift bandage. And although the sheer strength alone was impressive and intimidating, the real trauma was caused by the fact that she had just lost the one layer of clothing preventing the world from seeing her two petite, little bumps.

Growing up without a mother meant many a great things. Although a child could get by with the hit or miss tactics from a parent of an opposite gender, the more sensitive subjects can be trickier to handle. Especially when the child lives alone from such a young age. Bras, in this case, were the latest of hurdles in the life of a young woman. Even if the support was unneeded, in times like this even the most irritating of designs would be better.

As soon as the shirt left Morgan's body, arms went flailing trying to cover any and all exposed skin before darting downwards and curling against her knees to hide from prying eyes. Keeping her own head down in an attempt to hide the embarrassment that had suddenly flooded her body. Neither Retsu nor Yoshino seemed to care much, as they both continued on talking without any wavering in speech, but Morgan just sat and listened while they talked. Then, eventually, giving Morgan advice to get a new shirt at the school store and a summon to the president's office before sending Morgan on her way.

With her belongings covering up the problem areas, Morgan slinked her way around the backways before reaching her apartment and acquiring a fresh shirt, as well as a small, lightweight overcoat. Truth be told, Morgan felt like just laying in bed screaming and crying, but the president had given her orders to meet immediately. After locking the door and taking her bento again, Morgan made a brisk pace towards the president's office, as she was a bit afraid as to what the red head might do if the two of them were in cahoots together. Upon arrival, Morgan was told to given a seat outside the door and wait to be summoned or for further instructions.

As Alex listened to the PA system play one of his playlists he felt more in control than ever before. When he previously listened with headphones on Alex felt comforted, like a warm blanket on a cold winter’s day. This omnidirectional soundscape felt like a warm day at the beach with the money to buy all the ice-cream you want.

Getting up Alex stretched and wondered what to do next Well I better help the student council, they'll find my player eventually. With or without my help walking with a more confident stride Alex disassembled the remote in his pocket, removing the batteries and dropping them to the ground before lightly kicking them down a gutter. Removing the microchip and wire guts of the remote and tying them in a handkerchief before entering the deserted men’s room, crushing the little package underfoot.
After flushing the fragments down the toilet Alex exited the men’s room wondering what to do with the remote’s cracked shell. For a moment Alex absolutely relished the music surrounding him, forgetting where he was as the track changed.



Returning to his senses Alex wondered Oh? That sounds like Dad’s playlist. Mustn't be on shuffle then. as he broke the remote’s shell in half dropping one of the half’s in a nearby bin. The other half entered a storm drain.

Alex made a beeline for the student council reception, regaining his natural timidness with each step. Once outside Alex was the perfect image of a terrified student, it was a good disguise because he wasn’t acting. Entering the reception area and walking to the desk Alex looked like a deer in headlights. Hands shaking he tapped the little bell to get the receptionist’s attention.
“Umm, excuse me, but the... the music? I think it’s coming from my misplaced music player? I recognise the playlist. It’s my Dad’s.” The receptionist got a stony look on their face and said for Alex to take a seat. Hearing the song come to a close he called out “If I’m right the next song will be Love in an Elevator!”



It wasn’t really a surprise to Alex, but the receptionist seemed a bit spooked by it and immediately went to call a member of the student council.

Cassandra was just still staring at her book, listening as the music changed. Either the person who was Jukebox was randomly choosing songs like in DGO, or they and some really adaptive tastes in music. Love in an elevator? I don't think I've ever heard that before She thought to herself. She wished she had that confidence, although she suspected that 'Jukebox' would be punished for putting the music over the PA system.

come on, come on, come on. Go up to someone. Talk with them. You won't be a burden to them. What are you going to do when you graduate? Write things on paper? Don't be a wuss! she berated herself, but she made no move to even get up, her hands curling up, nails digging into her skin as she tried to make a move to get up, to go over to someone. She took a heavy breath, breathing in deeply, and let it out slowly, relaxing her hands, she glanced about, shutting her book.

There wasn't too many people in the class yet, so maybe Cassandra was earlier then she thought she was. Or maybe people were distressed about DGO being offline and eagerly awaiting it to return. There seemed to be one guy that she recognised from a few classes. He had blond hair, and seemed intent on just blending in, not really socialising much in class, nor outside of class that she knew of. Not that she spent much time talking with anyone herself, nor even watching her classmates, but it seemed like a good place to start with trying to make friends.

Or even talking with anyone. She swallowed and went to get up, walking over. Well. trying to walk over. Cassandra had a bad habit of falling over. She was a walking disaster, the clumsiest person that she knew. She slammed into the guys desk when she stumbled, trying to catch herself and only ended up stopping herself from smashing her head against the desk and practically tumbling into the guys lap.

She stumbled back, blushing furiously, "Oh, god, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry" She said, saying it over and over again, closing her eyes and pressing a hand to her mouth to get herself to shut up.

"Excuse me! You look lost, are you a new student? Do you need me to show you around?"

Rebecca looked up as the girl.. a student? Spoke, then finding the girl looking at her, blood raced to her face and she looked at her feet.
"urmmm... yes.. please?.. umm... could you show me where the dorms are?"
She held up a hey and showed the girl the number on the keychain.
"I think this is my room number, I'm Rebecca by the way"

@Diggerton

Emma grinned. "Nice to meet you Rebecca, I'm Emma. And yes, I do believe that is your room number. Just follow me, I'll lead the way!" Emma spoke cheerfully. There was no denying that Emma simply liked people, and by extension helping people. She started heading towards the dorms, ushering for Rebecca to follow. "I like your hair! The blue is very cute." She added as she turned around.

As Michael approached the academy, he began to hear music that slowly got louder as he got closer. How strange. He wondered if somebody was just playing music outside on a stereo or even their phone. But as the academy came into view, he saw nobody outside and that's when he realised that it was actually being played over the PA system. He didn't know if somebody had gotten into it somehow or the teachers just felt like screwing around with them that particular day. Either way, Michael advanced through the gates and into his classroom.

He was among the last to get into class, but he was still ahead of the teacher. That's all that mattered. One more late would mean an after school detention. And how he hated those. He'd only had two before, and both were for being late to class. It's not like he set out every morning with the intention to be late. It was just the way he took to get to school and how fast he walked. Michael spent most mornings convincing himself he was not to blame when he turned up late.

Once Michael had drifted back into reality, he realised the music was still playing. It wasn't annoying, but it meant he wasn't learning anything either. He wafted a hand and began gazing out the window at the trees, wishing he was among them instead of cooped up inside a classroom, doing very little. He soon drifted back off into his fantasy world, consisting of replaying moments he'd had within DGO, but mostly victories or other exciting things he'd been a part of.

Sam just stared into nothing, hoping classes would start soon. He didn't like waiting, because the more time passed, the more things could go wrong. He thought about how he should take on the outlaws around the Black Guild. Most of them probably logged out with the rest, and those who died before that are probably not going to the Black Guild yet. However, there will probably be ambushers there waiting for people that are going to log in. I probably should get rid of them first. After that I should- His thought was broken when a girl suddenly slammed onto his desk. Sam got up straight on his chair, and the girl tumbled onto his lap. "Oh, god, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry" She said.

Sam was a bit shocked. He looked around for a second, and saw that not many people were looking his way. Is this a prank or something? If it is, she must be a really good actor. He looked at her face, seeing the girl was in panic, but he also spotted a bit of guilt. He waited for a few seconds before saying anything. "It's okay. It was an accident, right? Making mistakes is human after all. I would apreciate it if you would get off my lap though." He waited for the girl to stand up again, then asked: "Are you actually okay? That was quite a smack you made."

Yoshino barely had time to make it to her office before her expected arrivals did. After giving a brief farewell to Retsu, she headed straight there without a second thought even as the first bell began to ring. Entering her office, she informed the rest of the Council to excuse Morgan Hazelnut from their first period before sitting down in her chair, sighing out as yet another day of work awaited her. What she didn't know was that one other had entered the waiting room in that time. Oh well. More people to lecture.

"You can come in Morgan Hazelnut," the Student President called out from her office. Said office held one long table with Yoshino sitting at the very end. A second chair was provided at the end closest to the door, ensuring that the unfortunate fool that had dared to break school rules and conduct would have no choice but to confront their Student President head on.

To Yoshino, it was both an asset....and a curse.

Morgan’s head perked up as she heard her name called. This wasn’t the first time she had been caught, though she didn’t know if she would be able to get out of as easily as times before. Technically, she hadn’t done anything wrong and could probably get by on that alone. Morgan stood up and calmly entered the room, shutting the door behind her. “You wanted to see me, President?” Morgan gave a quick friendly smile as she sat down in the chair in front of her.

"Yes, I wanted to talk to you about your behavior. Please, take a seat," Yoshino said with a neutral expression, directing Morgan over towards the lone chair before her. A second sigh escaped the Student President as she leaned back. Adjusting her glasses, she looked at Morgan's shoulder as her eyes softened just slightly.

"I'm told you called in sick today. And yet there you were standing right next to the Rules and Administration Office, where you could have been seriously injured. Would you like to tell me why you lied to the school?"

Yoshino's voice held no malice, only a need to understand.

"I actually never said I was sick, I... I really just needed a break from life. I was just remembering about the little time I spent with my dad, and how I never grew up without a mother. It’s nothing I really should've skipped school for, I know, but I was just….” Morgan’s voice trailed off as she started grinning on the inside. This was a typical excuse Morgan gave when in a pinch, as most just sighed and let whatever slide by, sometimes allowing the behavior to continue.

“And as for why I was at the Records and Administration Office, I-“ Morgan stumbled a bit, as the words just came out of her mouth before actually thinking of an excuse. “I… just needed to get out of the house, and was there without actually realizing it.” Morgan grimaced as she knew she had messed up that last line. Although should it come to it, Morgan figured it wouldn’t probably be that bad if the president actually knew the truth, maybe actually gaining an ally with power if she had enough of the curiosity within her.

"Oh is that so?" Yoshino said with amusement. "As I recall, the office told me that you were coughing quite vehemently over the phone when you called in. So unless you were practicing your acting skills, I have no reason to believe that you didn't call in sick. As for you parents, there's no need to lie to me Morgan. As the Student President, it's my duty to know not only the names of all the students currently attending, but also their backgrounds as well."

Yoshino leaned in before saying, "Be honest Morgan. Why were you really hanging around the Records and Administration Office? Surely you know that it would have been next to impossible for you to break in? Furthermore, if I am to believe your story, why choose the Records and Administration Office to bide your time at? Unless you were acting on instinct and your subconscious, I can only assume you went there willingly."

“I-“ Morgan sighed. She knew she messed up, and even if the president did know, she had been caught. “Truth is I wanted to find out, above all, who the Black King really was. Not, that I was going to do anything, but with my last encounter with her, I saw something more than the legends led on. In the game we all wear a mask, but there seemed a sadness behind her’s. I know it wasn’t anything more than speculation, but it piqued my curiosity enough to want to try to get to know the real her….. And, the other reason I wanted in the Records building is really something I can ask now, if you’ll forgive me. What does your mask look like? I know you’re busy with this and that, running the school, but surely it can’t be good for your future if you neglect it.”

The Student President held back a sigh. Honestly, did everyone feel the need to pity her all of a sudden? It wasn't she did anything worthy of it so why was it happening now? First Retsu and now Morgan. Yoshino shook her head, fiddling with her glasses.

"You're not the first one to be curious about my client's true identity. Nor will you be the last Morgan. There's a reason why the Black King would prefer to be kept hidden forever and it's for the same reason I despise video games, especially Deep Ground Online. As for your analogy of masks, I can proudly say that I wear one of ambition. Ambition both for my school career and for the goals of the Black King. Perhaps there was once a being similar to a saddened shell that you've described long ago," she mused, taking pause to place an intense glance upon the younger girl.

"But whatever regrets I may have once had are gone now. All I can afford to worry about is the future's accimplishments and the present outcome."

“Ah, excuse me then. I didn’t mean to pry into secrets, only to gaze upon the colors of people’s souls.” That last bit Morgan was sure she picked up from somewhere, but didn’t know where. “I suppose now that we’ve resolved my punishment, I should take my leave….” Morgan slowly stood, and started to backtrack towards the door. “Best get home, and out of your way.” Morgan said, giving the same smile she had entered the room with.

"I'll overlook you skipping school just this once," Yoshino replied with a smile. "Take care Morgan Hazelnut. Although I cannot provide you with the answers you seek, know that you are now an alley of the Black King. I hope you and my client get along just as well as we do."

Alex was surprised when he was told to wait outside the President's office, surely this wasn't a situation that needed her attention. Seeing the person who entered before him leave, Alex nervously got to his feet and went to the door, knocking before he let himself in. "Umm, you wanted to see me Miss President?"

"Oh? Alex Coleman, is that you? Yes, yes, come in," Yoshino called out, looking up from her paperwork. In the short time that Morgan had left, she had retrieved the files for the day and was already working on them diligently. She spared Alex a glance before going back to her paperwork.

"And you're here for....what exactly? Unless you're the one who disrupted the PA system?"

"Well, probably? I'm not entirely sure if it's because of my the PA system is playing music" Lingering by the door a moment later Alex closed it behind him and made his way to a chair.

"I know that it's my music, that playlist is one my Dad made for me and I misplaced my music player sometime last night, so I guess I am partly responsible? Or completely if you think that giving someone access to your stuff and it being used is full responsibility," he knew he was rambling, but when your in front of what is basically the Queen of Purple Crown, the atmosphere couldn't help but get to him.

Again, Yoshino smiled kindly at the student in front of her. She placed away her paper work before saying, "I figured it was an accident. I'll admit, you got me riled up there Alex. I was expecting a full time deliquent Nagato Kenji to pull off something like this. Thank goodness it's only you."

Kenji Nagato was a smoker and a punk. It made sense given that he was the Green King after all and like all the other Colored Kings, he made his real life identity no secret to anyone willing to listen. Which was everyone. Rumors even had it that he dated the current Blue King. Right before he went up and dumped her. Yoshino had nothing but loathing for him.

"I suppose he wouldn't care if it was an accident or not Kenji would simply enjoy the joke of it" sighing Alex wondered if he could really keep up with the Green King, especially since he seemed to have his eye on him and when a powerful jerk has his eye on you, you try to keep your head down and toe the line.

"I'm not really qualified for any guild other than the Fanged Rangers anyway Miss President. Having support powers basically renders me pretty useless outside of a group and the Rangers are the one group I can hope to level up enough to be competent... sorry, I shouldn't complain, you don't care about this stuff." rubbing the bridge of his nose Alex tried to relax,

"I lost my music player in the auditorium, it might still be there, but I thought that if I was seen going in there, the music stopping and then coming out with it, I would be brought here anyway so this is me trying to save my neck I suppose." he felt rather pitiful admiting it.

"It's rather brute of you to say something like that Alex. I am your Student President after all. It's my job to care about this stuff," Yoshino joked warmly. "Seeing as this was all an accident, I'll give you time off during this first period for you to retrieve. That should put things back in order, yes?"

Going back to her work, Yoshino scribbled some notes down before pausing. She looked up again, adjusted her glasses, and gave Alex a serious look. She was probably one of the few who knew he was really Unrelenting Jukebox now; as Student President, it was her duty to make sure no one else knew either for privacy.

"Alex. Maybe you should consider joining another Guild. I hate to be a solicitor, but the Black Guild needs strong Players like you. Kenji's Guild...despite their doctrine of helping others level up, that way of thinking ends up being fruitless when their leader is a complete a-...well you get the point."

Being called a 'strong player' caused Alex to laugh in a self-depricating manner "Miss President... I would never call myself a strong player. I'm a player that might get by on a prayer, being with someone levels above me or by simply doing something so rediculous no one knows how to react. I'm not strong, if I was strong I wouldn't be in the Fanged Rangers, if I was strong I would probably be a Cobalt Bruiser." Thinking that he was being rude Alex hastily added,

"Don't get me wrong, I'm flattered that you're suggesting that I join the Black Guild, but at best I would be making a latteral shift while simultaniously making Kenji an enemy." truthfully Alex wouldn't mind leaving the Fanged Rangers, he didn't really have any ties to them beyond the fact that they got him to level three quickly and that isn't really a good enough reason to stay.

"I see. Well I am glad to see you with such strong resolve. And you can't blame me for trying, right? Just be careful then Alex. I'm not saying this because I'm your Student President. I'm saying this because I'm your fellow Purple Crown peer," Yoshino said with honesty. "Now then. If that's all, you'd best hurry up and retrieve that CD player of yours. Until next time, Alex."

Yoshino parted him with one last smile before going back to her paperwork. First period was halfway over now so he would have to rush if he wanted to make it back in time.

He was about to clarify that it wasn't a CD player, but figured that the President didn't really care "Thank you, Miss President". Moving in a respectful manner Alex exited the office, making as little sound as possible. Once out, Alex all but ran for the auditorium to get his player back.

The auditorium's front entrance hadn't been unlocked today, so exhausted from his run Alex had to once again use his side entrance key. Making it to the sound booth Alex let all his built up tension melt away, it was still there. Relatively small faded and faded pink in colour, plugged in to the machinery. After powering down all the sound board Alex snatched the player out of it, killing the music, and stumbled out of the auditorium.

Cassandra gave a squeak, and leaped back, blushing a violent shade of red/purple like colour, and she looked aware but at the boy. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry" She said again, swallowing back distress, she flicked a gaze up, then away. "I stumbled. I'm a walking disaster, I've been meaning to get my feet checked out, but but but, its scary to go by yourself and I...I can't ask my parents and I'm so sorry, really I am"

And now she was babbling. She couldn't stop herself, as she buried her face in her hands, breathing hard, as she tried to get herself under control. All she had wanted to do was try and make a least the beginnings of friendship with someone, and now she was just completely making a fool of herself. Another reason she preferred DGO. You had anonymity and it didn't matter if you made a fool of yourself.

"I just wanted to try and talk to people, and I just literally feel into your lap and now I just can't shut up" Again she tried to shut herself up by covering her mouth with her hands, and succeeded somewhat, but her eyes were wide and panicked and her face hadn't faded from the violent red colour.

"Nice to meet you Rebecca, I'm Emma. And yes, I do believe that is your room number. Just follow me, I'll lead the way!"
Upon hearing this Rebecca immediately perked up and as the girl... Emma started walking Rebecca followed, a bounce in her step.
"I like your hair! The blue is very cute."
At this Rebecca's face split in a wide toothy grin and she replied, voice full of vindication
"Thankyou!"
Her eyes narrowed in outrage as she continued.
"Dad and Mum keep calling me smurf and I told them that smurfs don't have blue hair but they won't listen!"

@Diggerton

@ReaptheMusic
Huh. While Yuuki had always considered herself on the sheltered side of things, with the whole ‘only child’ thing making her the beloved baby of her parents all the way until high school, the brunette was slowly coming to the realization that Erika, being rich and all, might possibly be even more sheltered that her. Thus, it was probably understandable that she was slowly roasting on the inside from having to eat breakfast with Yuuki in a state of undress. Yup, it probably was a slightly embarrassing situation for the bespectacled girl, wasn’t it?

Eating her own breakfast at a much more relaxed pace than Erika, and kindly ignoring all the awkward glances and eye-aversions that she did, Yuuki smiled and said, “Glad you enjoyed it. Probably lacking compared to your five-star restaurant affairs though, right?”

After concluding her own meal and bringing the dishes to the sink, filling them partly with water, Yuuki hung her bathtowl over the back of a chair to dry and finally got dressing up. The undergarments came first, a plain white bra and pair of panties withdrawn from a small closet, before pulling up black knee socks over her feet. Chances are, they’d roll back down to her ankles by the end of the day, but it didn’t really matter. After all, that’s why she wore a long skirt instead of a mini skirt!

Slapping on the rest of the black-and-purple Purple Crown school uniform, Yuuki had to wonder whether or not this was some sort of sign that the Black King owned the school and delighted in making every student in real life appear to be a member of the Ebony Strykers…but then again, the school bells were ringing and she had to go.

“Oh, right.”

Realizing the dilemma of her friend, she took off her cardigan and tossed it over to Erika.

"Don't have a spare, so just use this to dodge the Disciplinary Committee or whatever. I'll just say I forgot mine."

After powering down all the sound board Alex snatched the player out of it, killing the music, and stumbled out of the auditorium. As he stumbled into daylight, Alex was knocked to the ground.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry! Hey, are you alright kid?"

The voice came from above Alex as a familiar face stood over his knocked over form. Everyone knew her as Maribel Harper, one of the more hardworking members of the Student Council. And if they didn't know her from that, then they knew her form her rank as Mercury Titania, the Blue King. Right now she was carrying-and balancing-a stack of what appeared to be paper files and a number of textbooks. With one hand. An outside viewer might have even called the sight hilarious, given how Alex was the one who had fell down. In her other hand was the signature fan that she always carried.

"Gosh, you really need to be more careful Alex....sorry, I don't really know your surname," Maribel said with a cool smile. "Memorizing names is usually Yoshino's job."

So she was on a first name basis with the Student President too? It always seemed Maribel had some trick up her sleeve or some parted knowledge that only she was aware of.

Still on the ground Alex was stunned Two Kings in as many days, I'm either blessed or cursed "I'm sorry, I should've been looking where I was going Miss Maribel, sorry" realising he had said sorry twice Alex couldn't help but have his face turn bright red. Trying to get up Alex only managed to slip and fall down again, his nerves were so powerful that it seemed as it he was on ice instead of concrete.

"I, um, hope I didn't hurt... you..." Wow, I'm the one on the ground and I am asking about hurting someone, an outsider wouldn't think I'm the guy in this situation Alex lacked social graces outside DGO, in there he is Unrelenting Jukebox, center of attention, a fun joke character. Out here, he was a wallflower, fairly isolated and convinced he was happy that way.

"No worries there Alex," Maribel said, seemingly unaffected by his stuttering speech or apparent lack of confidence. "Though I gotta ask why you're out in the auditorium when you should be in first period? Don't tell me Yoshino's got a cute boy like you roped up with some kind of punishment?"

She winked playfully at him, her other hand gripping the fan and pointing it at him directly. A confident gleam reflected off of her red eyes and she casually took a step forward.

"Of course if you're trying to play hooky, I'll have no choice but to punish you myself as a member of the Student Council~" she said with that same smile.

"P-punished?!" panic filled Alex's face "N-nope no need for that! I came here straight from Miss President's office! My music player was the cause of the PA disturbance so I was told to get it!" Gripping the door frame tightly Alex slowly pulled himself out from under Maribel's pointed fan and started to slowly get up.

"Oh, so you're the one who made it go all weird, huh?"

Maribel slowly put her fan away and rested her hand on her hip. She studied Alex for a good while, her grin ever increasing. She doubted he would lie about something like that and she could always cross reference it with Yoshino herself. He had to be telling the truth.

"Hmm. Say that I were to believe you then. You still only have five minutes before first period ends. And the more time I spend here chatting with you means the less time you have to make it back. Hey, I've a great idea! Let's play a game! The rules are really simple, see? I let you go now and you become my secretary for the whole week!"

"Umm, yes I guess I am responsible. Also that doesn't sound like a game..." finally making it to his feet Alex lightly brushed himself off "What if I'm not a good secretary?" His concern was so obvious on his face that it was almost comical "What would my duties be anyway?" Alex had resigned himself to the fact that Maribel had him almost at her complete mercy in this situation and he wasn't exactly the kind of person to say 'no' to someone to begin with.

"Do you actually need some... secretary-ing done?" Alex looked at the books Maribel was carrying wondering what his secretar

"Well now that you mention it, work has gotten the Student Council stumped for a while now. Especially with the new semester coming in so you can consider yourself my little assistant from now on! You'll just be doing odd jobs and really anything else to help me," Maribel explained.

If Alex was crazy he would've sworn that Maribel was getting him to be her secretary so that she could keep on messing with him, but she was a Student Council member and the Blue King, so the thought never crossed his mind "Oh, okay... is there anything I can help with now? There's a Green Guild meeting in the Rec center this afternoon, so I might be a bit busy then." as the words left his lips, Alex regreted them. He'd heard about the falling out between Maribel and Kenji, but he couldn't just lie about where he would be, Alex wasn't that kind of guy.

A sly look crossed Maribel's features before it all suddenly began to click. The weird music, the PA, and the misplaced music player...not it was all beginning to make sense.

"So you're Unrelenting Jukebox, huh? Didn't think you actually went to our school. So what's this I hear about a meeting with the Green Guild later, hmm?"

The colour drained from Alex's face when he heard Maribel call him by his DGO handle "Me, Unrelenting Jukebox? Are you feeling okay Miss Maribel? Unrelenting Jukebox is a showy joke character that many level ones consider some stupid event character. Also if you listen to the Green Lieutenants he is an embarassment to the Fanged Rangers, how can I possibly be him?" Alex actually took a few steps back, a wall quickly stopping him.

Maribel deducing his identity actually made Alex quite happy to tell her everything about the meeting "T-the Green Guild meeting is at the Recreation Center. It's probably about rules of engagment for the Black Guild and discussing the forced log out. W-why do you want to know?"

"Hmm. Well first off, an embarassment to the Fanged Rangers perfectly explains why you're stutttering so much! And then there's the obvious evidence that you know when a Green Guild meetting is occuring~"

Maribel stepped closer, bringing up her fan and covering the lower half of her face. She fave Alex a wink, wanting to relish in his discomfort for just a little bit before she laughed aloud. Seriously, what was with this girl?

"Ah, there's no need to lie to me Alex. And it's not like I'm gonna tell anyone either. All I want is for you to be my secretary, remember? Though getting a little dirt on that oh so marvelous Green King of yours wouldn't hurt your deal either," she said with a hint of sarcasm when glossing over his Guild's leader.

Alex turned a deeper shade of crimson when Maribel winked, but was legitimately confused "Marvelous leader? Who are you talking about? You can't be talking about Kenji, he's... well not lazy, but focused in odd ways." Even after thinking for a moment Alex didn't catch the sarcasm in Maribel's voice.

Shaking his head Alex changed the subject "So can I help you in any way?..." realising what he said Alex hasitly added "As a secretary?"

"Sure, you can help me in all sorts of ways," Maribel said, a little disappointed that Alex didn't catch her disdain but didn't show it. "For now, you can help by getting to class you naughty boy. I don't think you want another run-in with Yoshino, do you?"

Maribel stuck her tongue out playfully before turning on her heels and walking away. With her fan wielding hand, she waved farewell to Alex behind her.

"Oh, and expect a PM later if I need your help. We can be paper filing buddies!"

"Okay, I hope to hear from you soon" as Maribel rounded a corner Alex's heart rate finally slowed down. What have I got myself into now? cradling his head in his hands for a moment Alex stood up resigned himself to not making it to first period and made his way to his second class of the day.

After leaving the president's office, Morgan figured she should go ahead an head home to play DGO. The meeting with the president wasn't really that bad of a setback. Even though she would've loved to stake out the R&A Office more, she learned a lot from her encounter with the president as well. Not to mention she already had enough information to break in any day of the week, or at least next Friday. Plus, If the Black King were to get online for the meeting, it wouldn't be bad to get there ahead of schedule.

Getting home, Morgan put her bento in the refrigerator to be had, most likely, for dinner. She changed into her pjs and after locking the door, she got comfy before logging in. The announcement did say that those who died weren't set to the wait time thanks to the glitch. It was better to strike while the iron was hot after all. 3......2.....1.....

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The welcome sign disappeared over her head as she spawned within the Black City.

Erika's eyebrows raised as the cardigan was tossed to her and she took it quickly. She listened as Yuuki explained how she'd make an excuse for herself, causing Erika's face to light up with a smile. Yuuki was definetly her best friend in purple crow academy. She took off her own sweater and pulled the school cardigan on. As her curls bounced back into place when she squeezed her head through the neck hole, her glassed-eyes caught note of the clock on the wall.

"Oh gosh, is that clock right?!" She blanched, hurrying putting on the cardigan. She quickly grabbed her school bag which she'd brought with her yesterday and ran to the mirror, straightening her hair as much as she could with her fingers--to no avail, as her curls bounced right back--and ran to the door. "Thank you Yuuki, I'll see you at lunch!!!"

And with that, she shot like a bullet down the empty halls, hopping on one foot half way down to adjust her shoes. She dashed out of the dorms and straight for the school. No way could it already be nearing second period! Luckily she's a diligent student so hopefully this kind of thing will slide since she's consistently on top of her work.

"Hey you."

The voice was cool and direct, radiating with a sense of quiet authority. Standing across from Erika was the subject of so many rumors concerning her and it almost seemed like an omen that he was here for her now. Hands in his pockets, the official Hall Monitory for Purple Crown Academy stood with an expression that could have been seen as boredom or deep, pondering thought. Micheal Davis. The Red King.

"You mind telling me why you're late to school?" he asked with an expression that could be determined as either a glare or one of neutrality, walking up to the curly-haired girl. Erika had skidded to a stop as soon as she heard the voice of The Red King. She panted, not exactly the type to do well in physical education. She straightened as she got a good look at Micheal, the familiar beat of her heart resounding in her chest as it had done earlier. As he got closer, her glasses fogged up and she tightly gripped the handles of her bookbag in front of her. There was no way this was happening right now. Of all the people seeing her like this, it had to be him?

"Uh...uh.. Y-you see I... forgot my uniform and my f-friend...uh..."

She stammered herself into silence, unable to look at him at this point. Curse her shyness. Couldn't she explain herself without looking insanely guilty or suspicious?

Micheal looked at her critically-or maybe it was a look of pity?-before sighing. This girl was supposed to be the one dating him? At least, that was what the rumors had made them out to be. Micheal made a mental note to slug the guy who started those lies before focusing back on Erika here.

"Make sure you're more diligent next time. You might as well just stick it out here and wait for the second bell to ring," he said casually, crossing his arms and leaning back on the wall. "Judging from the way you act around me, I'm gonna assume you're that Erika chick, right?"

Erika looked up in surprise when he gave out her name. Then again, maybe she shouldn't be. Everyone knew about the Unaligned Mitsuki girl afterall. Still, having her name spoken by one of the colored kings? It took her breath away a little. She hesitated, then gave a brief nod. She sheepishly went to stand by him, albeit putting a few feet of distance between them. He was right... she'd only die of embarassment when the whole class turned to look at her coming in late. She set her bookbag down beside her and took out a microfiber cloth from her pocket.

She removed her glasses, relaxing though she still work a small frown on her face. The foggy, thick rimmed glasses gone now, her bright blue eyes were revealed. She pushed a curly lock of hair out of her face before cleaning her glasses. And though she wanted to do her best to not stare, she couldn't resist sneaking a few peeks at the very cute Red King. Her heart thundered in her chest and she swallowed dryly. Okay. Nows the time, don't be weird.

"Y-You're... the Red King... right?"

She mentally stabbed herself through the eye. Really? That question? Everyone knew who the Red King was. Ughhhhh someone, come out with a sniper rifle and just shoot between her eyes. She blushed even darker and pretended to be fascinated with her glasses cleaning, her blue eyes wide now.

"Yeah, I am. What about it?"

If Micheal was concerned for her fidgeting and embarassment, he didn't seem to care. Or maybe he didn't notice? Whatever the case, he turned to Erika and looked at her directly, expecting an answer from her too.

"You could probably tell from the way I dress. And if you really are that Erika chick, you're the one who hasn't joined a Guild yet. Is that right? Wanna kill the time and tell me why?"

HE'S TAKING INTEREST IN ME. The thought shot through Erika's head and she took a deep, shuddering breath. She went to open her mouth to respond, but at that moment, the sound of a camera shutter went off. She turned her head and put on her glasses quickly as a student barrelled out from a hiding spot and shot off across the campus. What had that been about? She shook her head and looked back at Micheal, feeling an odd spur of confidence suddenly.

"I was just um... wondering, you know?" She looked down and rolled a rock beneath her foot. "As for why I haven't joined a guild... well..." She trailed off as she tried to think of a response, one she wouldn't have to stutter through and embarass herself further on. She looked a bit sad as she admitted, "I guess... I'm not even good at Deep Ground Online. Even if I did pick... it's not like I'd be any good to anyone." She closed her eyes, sighing. What she said next came out a little spiteful. "Wouldn't want to tarnish the Mitsuki name..."

"Talking like that will only get you killed."

The statement was blunt and didn't hold back, Micheal sighing as he listened to the girl's words. He closed his eyes to think a little bit about what he wanted to say before opening them again and staring at Erika. In-game, the Red King was known for valuing strength and power above else. Whether or not the same mentality carried over to outside of DGO was yet to be seen.

"With talk like that, your confidence will diminish. You'll end up losing more battles than you win. And when you finally graduate from Purple Crown, you'll be stuck with a deadbeat job. Then you'll tarnish your family name. Just some facts for you to consider. I hate people who talk like they're worthless."

His last words hit her like an oncoming train and a lump formed in her throat. She didn't say anything as she stared across the campus. What he had been saying HAD started to make her feel inspired but the harshness of his last statement had flattened all of it like a cat run over by a semi truck. Even so, he had been right. She pushed the glasses up the bridge of her nose, for once feeling as strong as Azga the Amazing as she shoved aside her hurt and replaced it instead with the bitterness that welled up. What had she really expected from the Red King? He was a man all about strength huh? Her next motions happened on their own as a direct result of her emotions. She spun to face him, simultaneously outstretching her hand... and slapping him across the cheek.

When she looked at him, her eyes were bright and full of fire... just like Azga's, really. That had felt so.. empowering. She grit her teeth as she looked him in the eye.

"I hate people who think they're better than everyone else!"

If Micheal flinched from her resounding slap, he didn't seem to show it. However, his eyes did widen slightly at the impact of her hand against his cheek before his neutral look returned. Gently, he dabbed the spot she had marked, feeling the sting and heat the blow had left behind.

"Heh. Well maybe you're not so hopeless after all. The fact that you just slapped the Hall Monitor who could very well write you up detention proves you've still got some fight left in you. Who knows? Maybe you'll prove me wrong sooner than I expected."

Micheal leaned back on the wall and placed his hands in his pockets. His eyes closed in thought as just then, the second bell began to ring out for all students. Soon enough the halls would be filled with people again, giving Erika the opportunity to slip in undetected.

"Well? What are you standing here for acting like some kind of hero? Get to class already," he told her, moving away and in the opposite direction. "Consider it a warning since I don't feel like getting you in trouble. You'd probably just end up slapping me again or something."

Erika stood, watching after him as he left. Did she really still have Azga's bravery enough still in her to do what she was going to next? She swallowed and took a deep breath. Erika reminded herself: I AM Azga.

"Hey, Red King!" She called out to him from where she stood in the sea of students, raising her chin up a little.

"Hmm?"

Micheal turned around slightly just enough to catch her response. He had a feeling she was going to do something really brave and really stupid. But he wasn't phased, even now as he lent her his ear.

"Yeah?"

Rather than speak... Erika slowly smiled and raised a hand to him, waving very slightly. She blushed a little but kept her smile. To other students it might seem like she was saying goodbye in an intimate fashion according to the rumors, especially with everyone around to see. This however... "I'll see you around." Not one stutter. Then she turned and dashed off to class with a big smile on her face, her cheeks a deep shade of rouge and having to giggle to herself. Could she really be falling for that jerk? ...Yeah... Yeah she could be.

Micheal heard the words and turned around. A small chuckle finally escaped him as he walked off shaking his head. What a strange girl. And people really thought they were dating? Strange. Strange indeed.

Tim walked out of the classroom wearily. He'd never been great at the whole 'school' part of deep ground, but he usually managed to scrape by. He'd just had maths first, which he was particularly bad at, but at least his teacher had been satisfied by his lightly slapdash homework. Nevertheless, school had started on a low note, but it would only get better from there.

Tim walked to his locker and replaced his maths books, taking his school jersey and a muesli bar and banana for a quick snack. Yes, he had PE next. PE was one of his favourite subjects, and perfect for removing him from the joint-locked state he'd been in for most of maths. It would be a better day now, finishing it with physics.

Tim jogged lightly down the hall towards the PE hall, eager to begin. Yes, it would be a good day.