Gabriel knew he was right. They might not have started trying to kill anyone, but it would have ended up that way. It had happened before. He would not remember those memories. As Argus turned away, fury rose up in Gabriel. He was going to be ignored again, going to be left alone, again. a rock was his only means, and he threw it towards argus, deliberately missing, only seeking to stop him from walking away. He'd opened this can of worms, he damn well be stick to the whole mess was out.

"I've watched good intentions turn into murder before, you insensitive ass. Trying to stop you, or ike, or whatever would have led to one of you, or the girl, dead. Fighting sucks, and more people end up dead even by accident the they would on purpose. So shove your words about me being self righteous and go to hell! Self righteous would be assuming I'm right! I don't, just go off what I've seen, what I've had done to me, and what ice had to do."

He would not remember. He would not remember. If he did, he'd have to face it. Questions would be asked. "fighting with magic should be a last resort, not the first thing you go for. That Misuse of magic is why we still struggle to overcome a 100 years of mistrust. You haven't seen what people will do to you because you have magic. You haven't seen the results of magically restrained salves, or the desperatiration they feel as they try and escape, or seen what one angry wizard would do with magic. You haven't seen someone standing next to you practically become a pile of ash! You don't know!" oh god, he was remembering, and he didn't know if he could take it. "you don't know what it's like to be eight, and have to leave your family, to look back and see your mother cut in two, your father a mess of skin, bones, organs. What it's like to have to lie to your brother every day and say you are sure they are okay, that they survived and will find us one day. Because you know if you tell him, he'd break. Or maybe you'd break. And then how would you keep him alive? This shy, little boy whose scared of his own shadow? You don't know what it's like, truly, when people fight with magic. Even one wrong move, you could end up dead. That's what would have happened. That's why I tried to stop it, why I don't see the value in fighting first off, Why I think talking is better then fighting. That's why I wanted to join Frenzy Plant, to see if there's actually people who'd protect, instead of defend, instead of attack. I guess there isn't, because human nature is always to attack first, and I guess it can't be changed. So shove your words, when you don't know what it's like" by now, Gabriels voice was cracking, and he seemed to sag with each passing sentence, as if the weight of memories was pushing him down.

"I saw more death at eight then anyone should in their entire lifetime. You don't know what it's like to pretend there's hope when there isn't. What it's like to make sure the one good thing in your life doesn't have their light snuffed out. You don't know what it's like to depend on someone more then they depend on you to not be there anymore. I could be strong, but only for them, because of them. You don't know what it's like to have the one thing you live for to be so far away from you. You don't know what it's like, coming to a guild like this, when you are so scared, when you feel so weak because they aren't there, and nearly not being accepted because you refuse to let your spirits, friends, the only things you have left, fight for you to get in, when you have to prove to
Yourself that you can do it, without help. You don't know, so maybe don't assume I'm self righteous, when all j want to do is keep as many people as I can alive, while trying to be strong, when I'm alone the time, when I just want to give up, but that proves I'm weak, doesn't it? But just go, everyone else does"

Gabriels expression was pure childlike despire, and his voice by now was little more then a whisper, looking like at any moment the wind might simply knock him to the ground. He didn't even know if Argus was there, if he was listening, his eyes distant and unseeing. Perhaps he was just talking to himself and ghosts gone by.

@Raijinslayer@rivaan@Lunarlors34

Anya jumped a little when Jack appeared behind her and ruffled her hair, she didn't expect that Jeez that guy is fast... She thought to herself. "Nahh. Too many witnesses. Sometime later, maybe." She told him, giggling as she followed him back to the stadium. She wondered why he didn't sit back at there seats but that care was soon tossed out of the window as they walked over to sit near Janna and the rest of the people she had met earlier.

Sitting down she waited for Jack to finish speaking, "Hey guys!" She shouted happily, smiling.

Isla hadn't even been in the detention tent for a few minutes and already grew bored of it already. The lack of activity around the camp and the amount of things she could play with were minimal. Thinking of a way to escape this hole was the only thing that kept her mind occupied right now. She sat with her arms hugging her one move able leg and the other legs slumpily lying by. The sound of footsteps echoed through her mind as time seemed to slow. She could see everyone close by walking much slower while her own speed kept maintained. Her head jumped up a little as she looked around the camp. She was trying to spot what she was looking for but didn't seem to have any success.

Her head trailed towards the sound of the footsteps and her eyes almost seemed to grow double in size. The woman from yesterday, Just by the shadow of her walking she could notice it was her by glance. The one that took her leg was here, right in front of her. The shadow disappeared and the actual woman came in view. Her lips moved as a dead silence almost seemed to sound around them ”Why, I'm so glad we could meet again,” Isla gulped as sweat ran down her forehead. Tension was rising around them "It would appear so indeed" Isla stared at the woman for a few seconds but averted her gaze towards the ground to the right as her voice softly sounded "Do you remember the promise..." Isla blinked a few times and trailed her hand over her non active leg.


Thor patiently walked up towards the rest of the Frenzy Plant group knowing their turn in the arena was about to come but silently took their place among the Frenzy Plant members to take a last few breaths before the show would start to calm themself down some more in anticipation for the fight.

@CirusArvennicus@Caits

Karn's emerald eyes flicked toward Sasha at the slight little slip up she did, a little reaction to her words. Ben. She seemed so at ease throwing the fact her parents... and Ben were dead. But when Karn casually mentions her own, the ice wizard reacts. Karn really couldn't blame her, but it would be a little nice to get the same recognized understanding. After all. This world's guild has plenty of people who are dead in Edolas but alive here. Family, friends.. It made her mildly curious if Father and brother were alive here. But she rather not think of it. The memories that were floating around in this world's Karn's weren't pleasant ones. Most muddled... scarred memories. There was no point seeking them out.

Still. It was difficult, knowing Ben was dead in this world. He was not her Ben, she knew that. But it just made her worry. If Ben back in Edolas was okay? Did he make it alright? Was Sasha? The last she knew, they were back home. And there was always a possibility of a surprise attack. Karn had tried to take precaution. Set up traps and security, even a attack bot should things get too hairy. Sammy and Ben were there after all. Course if things got too overwhelming, they could hide out in the underground for awhile.

Again, she was overthinking things. Worrying when there was now no point to it. She had tried her best at the time. Guess it was just... not knowing anything. Karn would just have to belief that everything was alright.

Waving the thoughts aside, she glanced to Trinity at her question. "Yeah. The citizens made a lot of songs in rebellion against Queen Bitchiness... or Angelica. Course, if they were caught singing it by the Queen's forces, they were executed. The Queen's forces had a march song in her honor as well. So most just sing more subtly, or for a better tomorrow." she answered.

". . ."

Argus had stopped walking half-way through the rant, slowly feeling his anger compound on itself the more Gabriel spoke. His body shook ever so slightly as he reigned in his emotions, taking a few deep breaths so that he'd be able to get out a sentence without socking him across the face.

"You know, it takes a certain level of arrogance to say stuff like that, don't you think. When you tell people that they don't know something, especially people you don't know, that means that you think that whatever may have happened to them in their lives, it can't be as bad as what happened to you. I don't know why you felt the need to scream your life story at me, whether it was to help price your point, vent frustration, or simply wanting me to feel sorry for you, but I'm going to tell you that I probably know about everything you just said then you do. Well, except for seeing my parents die and having the last person I care about be somewhere far away. Parents were killed before I was old enough to remover and the person that I would have, and did, kill for. . . she's dead." Argus took another strafing breath, back still to Gabriel as he struggle to keep back the tears and the memories from that day. "But since you've decide to play this game, let me ask you some questions. Do you know what it's like to be forced to kill animals, children, grown men, every day, since you were 5, until you're so numb to the act of taking life that you stop seeing living beings, only bags of flesh to be sliced into pieces? Do you know what it's like to kill people you've grown up with and cherished because that's the only way you'll survive to see the next day? Do you know what it's like to see the last family you have get killed like a dog while you stand by, not able to do a single goddamn thing about? Do you know the hell that is living everyday of your life with the knowledge that they're dead because of you, and that nothing you ever di will allow you to atone for it? Well . . .DO YOU!?!?"

Argus' voice became more and more strained and angered as he spoke, the air around him growing dark as his magic seeped from his body, filling the air with a chilling sense of foreboding. Argus looked at his hands, seeing the dark wisp flowing from his body, and let out a empty chuckle, the darkness beginning to coalesce around him. "Do you know what it's like to have a magic that constitently pushes you to do the one thing you never want to have to do again in your life, a magic that you were tricked into learning because you thought it was your only hope for freedom . . . a magic that forever causes people to label you a demon, not be aide of your looks, but because of the actions it makes you take?"

Argus let out a sigh, the anger leaving him as soon as it had come upon him. Turning around to face Gabriel, the darkness emanating from him subsiding with the change in mood, the blue-haired Mage would see a very defeated look upon the God Slayer's face. "It seems to me that neither of us have really let go of our past traumas. To be honest, I'm surprised that you can still hold the opinion you have after everything you've been through. Naive as it is, it's a noble one and I won't tell you to give it up. But I will tell you that if you ever want to live up to it and have people take you seriously, you're going to have to get stronger and grow up. Otherwise, you'll die accomplishing nothing at all, alone and leaving nothing behind but a memory."

Argus was quiet after that, not stepping any closer to Gabriel, but not walking away either. The blue haired Mage had his attention for now, as Argus wanted to at least listen to his response.

@Caits

"Thanks, Sasha. I just hope I get picked for something fun like a talent contest, for my magic game event. I think I could steal the whole show" The stringed instruments behind her slow and begin to play something else. Nothing in particular, just a lilting, thinking sort of melody. "Hmmm, but what would I play? Do you think a set of three songs would be too much? Variety would probably be good, and I should end with something big. I've been working hard since I joined up. It'll be hard, but I think I can pull off a full orchestra."

The violins play the basics of an old Earthland symphony as she thinks of what she could use for her closer. The first two songs she'd just pull off the top of her head from whatever she'd feel like playing at the time, but that closer would have to be good. A piece that leave an impression. Hmm...

gabriel
@Raijinslayer
"it's not the magic, so don't go blaming it. It's you" they were the only words Gabriel was unaware of speaking. "magic doesn't make you do anything. I know a demon. And you're much too plain to be one. Someone is a demon when they make a decision themselves, and aren't forced into it. Did you decide to kill because it was your choice or because it was the only choice? You're not a demon, the people that made you do it are. You have no idea just what magic means, do you? I feel sorry for you because of that. The magic doesn't make you do anything, it doesn't control you. It's left over residue from what you were forced to do. Don't blame magic because you won't change when the danger is passed" his voice was oddly monotone, and he suddenly sneezed, and seemed to come to his senses all at once, colour flooding his cheeks and the far off look in his eyes disappearing.

"you said it yourself. You were forced into it. Nothing was your choice, of course you could have chosen to die. We all can choose that option though. Forced. You had no choice. I know what it's like to kill, to choose to kill and not be forced into it. But in not going to continue playing whatever game this is.

I've tried, but no one seems to give a damn about me. I've tried doing jobs with them, but haven't done with anyone since my first mission. I've tried. And I'm tired of trying, so if all you have for me is crappy words like that, then I'm done" these words Gabriel was aware of speaking, and his tone now was of one of defeat. "I'm tired of it all, tired of trying to do what I think is right when everyone tells me I'm wrong.

I'm done with this"

Gabriel turned, and as Argus seemed to have trouble with trees, he took to them, scaling them easily, and leaping from tree to tree as if he had been born to them. nice that same things stay with you, good things. within moments he was away from the clearing, and hopefully Argus, he was back in the city, breathless. Where was he going?

He didn't know. He could go back to the arena, but then he would have to speak with the guild master and he didn't want that right then. But where else could he go? He swallowed, wondering if he could sneak in and find Michael. Intent on doing just that, he circled the arena, eventually finding a way in away from where the Fenway plant seating area was. And then just stood there probably looking like an idiot.

sasha
@CirusArvennicus@silver fox

"I think it's more likely it will be connected to the lacrima said the teams were after" Sasha said "I guess you will find out soon" she managed to keep her voice level, and this time when she took a sip of water managed not to wear half of it. "but maybe we could have a talent show somewhere down the line, in the guild"

@Caits
Having taken leave of her seat in the stands, Ariel began to navigate around the arena. Since it was between events it appeared that many other people had the same idea. But at least she could go with the flow of the crowd. Eventually she broke away and took a proper look around. There were really a lot of people here. The guilds alone were enough, but if even a small percentage of the spectators here had some level of magical ability no doubt she'd be feeling it right now. If her magic was working that is. So that was one benefit. She could go anywhere without having to consider the concentrations of magic in the area.

After her mind wandered a bit she noticed someone familiar standing off on his own. Yesterday was kind of a blur but after a moment it clicked that he had tried to help her the other day. She didn't know Gabriel's name but then again he probably didn't know hers either. Watching for a minute he looked spaced out. She didn't know the circumstances but she knew the feeling.

Seeing as he at least tried to help the other day Ariel didn't see an issue talking to the stranger. He looked like he needed someone to listen. She probably did too to be honest. Maybe not about everything, but just to vent a bit to someone that hopefully wouldn't ask too many questions. Having decided Ariel made her way over to Gabriel and waved him down. "Hello again. Mind if I join you?" She didn't wait for an answer and joined him. First impression, Gabriel didn't want anyone around. Sighing a bit Ariel glanced over. "Sorry about my guildmates being so rude yesterday. I swear they're not always like that. For what it's worth, I appreciated your concern." Letting the words hang a bit she watched the crowd mull around.

@CirusArvennicus@Caits

Karn listened to them briefly before her mind started wandering off after hearing them mostly talk of music and talent shows and more or less not directly towards her. Trinity played some music, which indeed didn't quite sound like anything she had heard back home, but it was still nice. Despite that though, her mind started working through other matters, more important to her at least. Minus the constant chatter that she was choosing to ignore inside her mind. Sasha may not want to think about it, but that didn't stop Karn from doing it. The main choices were very clear. Kill, be killed, or slowly devolve into insanity or worse. For now, the choice is plan I. Next is to think about Edolas. It's very possible that there are still open rifts that could lead to destruction to either world. In order to ensure safety of her guild, top priority is making sure they are safely closed and sealed. In order to avoid future... incidents that started this predicament in the first place.

Next, study it in order to create a more safe and secure way to open a pathway between worlds. Without the endanger of innocent lives and destruction of the worlds. So quite a bit of studying and reading of magic will have to go into this as long as the technical capabilities this world possess. If significant enough, perhaps build a sort of.. communication device to connect to one of her inventions back home. Her PGCT had significant hardware and software invested in it, she'd just need to remember to hack into the firewall and blow pass the security system. Of after figuring away to connect between world's of course. Wave lengths seem to work mildly different in this world so more experiments will be needed to check out the specific metrics.

Specific steps and trials would indeed be needed. There were several probabilities things would go wrong. And she wanted to be sure she lowered those numbers to the lowest possible. Preferably 0% if at all possible. Risking more death's was not preferable. But as long as she slowed and kept her head, kept calm, should be doable. If she calibrated the A247 to the B584 and combined it to the I60 then it should manage to equal to about the amount...

"Can you please stop thinking? I'm not even real and youre giving me a migraine." Pen grumbled as he sat on the table, face in his hands as his fingers gripped his temples.

"No now shut up." Karn thought back before continuing on. Now in order to get back home without bringing this Karn. She for one needed another body. Preferably a durable one sustained without any magical needs. Magic may be returning in Edolas, but it also didn't need any right now. After all, this has been twice now that magic caused some type of chaotic warfare in Edolas history. Always with the greed of magic when it wasn't something that was absolutely needed. People just wanted it because of either power or to make life easier. Well, whenever she returned, she'd show the people that magic wasn't easier to make lives better or easier. Technology can just do just as much and anyone can use it. As long as their willing to learn. Magic took a specific set of mindset and skill along with natural talent. Sure there were items that made it a bit easier but it was still more preferable to have quite a easier way to utilize such abilities, without it. It's not exactly.. that she disliked magic or anything. Though she had plenty of reason to. But she just wanted something everyone, down to a child can do.

Okay build a body, simple enough, she's done it before. Not quite to the perfection with the idea of a ideal look alike human like body but still. There was the fact of Earthland Karn. Edolas Karn had plenty of determination to go back home and live on, no matter what. It was part of her dreams after all, left unfulfilled and she hadn't completed them. One, she supposed... has but still. When one dream ends, another begins. This was a bit of a setback but no matter. This world's Karn though... she didn't feel a ounce to continue. She felt his soul... but barely hanging on due to her resisting the process of overpowering it. If he didn't have that same determination to live, he'd die like he wants to. One can't just save someone who doesn't have that will to live. So she's stuck in this body, forcing him to stay alive until he gets that willpower. That could be a problem. She didn't know him to well other then what she can sense or what she was told.

Another problem that needed solving.

"You know I think you should sing. I mean, you have a pretty voice whenever you actually do!" the Trinity in Karn's mind piped up as she leaned over Karn's shoulder who had propped up their head with their propped up right arm, resting her cheek against her palm as she thought.

"No. I don't have time to sing nor is there a reason to. Sammy nor Ben are here to lull to sleep nor is there anyone who really needs it." Karn answered bluntly within her mind.

"Does everything need a reason with you?" Mayat said, resting her crossed arms on top of the blonde's head.

Despite feeling the imaginary pressure, Karn continued to ignore them and continued her thought and planning. Face remaining calm and monotone. Perking up only slightly when she spotted what looked like... a projector on a larcrima? This world's television? Fuck even their 'tech' were different. Chatting about the competition. Seems at least everyone managed to obtain the lacrima.

"Guess we'll have to get back soon." she mused.

@Raijinslayer @Lunarlors34 @Shikaru

“You know, I'm just in the at the point where I can't decide if I should hit you over the head or I should thank you...” Janna replied, taking the towel from James and started to dry up Angela as much as she can, good thing the weather was good enough and not really cold, otherwise well... they were probably going to end up sick... or at least she." Next time, how about a little warning at least, if you have the reflexes needed to go grab an umbrella to shield Jessica from the water...? It won't save us from being wet, but at least will help deal with the nagling desire to do bad things to you~" She said jokingly.

“Nice to meet you, mister DuCarthy.” Janna replied with a polite voice and nodded towards the man, throwing a quick look at Arthur at the question she was asked.” You should really tell Arthur there to calm down... He's way over... zealous in keeping them out of trouble it's just plain unsettling...” Janna stated, throwing the four's boss a look. Janna had basically figured out that the four were part of probably some dark guild, judging by the way Arthur acted.” Yeah... he should chill out... ”

“Hey, Anya! I didn't really expect us to meet again so soon.” Janna stated with a pleasant smile.” Why aren't you with the rest of your guild?” The former thief asked curiously.” Did something happen?”

@Shikaru@rivaan@Raijinslayer

Angela Arthur James Jessica
James shrugged his shoulders simply in reply. Not his fault he had brought some spare clothes. Angela made a satisfied face as Janna dried her off, much like a puppy would after having their ears scratched.
Arthur gulped nervously as Nidhogg's voice could suddenly be heard. Oh god no.
"O-of course Jack, I mean I am looking after them as per orders." He replied stiffly as even Angela hid slightly behind Janna a little while gripping her arm tightly. Jackson/Nidhogg scared Angela to no end.
Even the usual calm James seemed a little put off by Jack's sudden arrival as he now settled back down next to Jessica.
"Of course, Arthur does whatever Georgie says with glee." Jessica chuckled under her breath before smiling towards Jack.
"Been awhile hasn't it?" She asked innocently. Despite the others discomfort she seemed perfectly fine.

Indigo strained to hear the captive's faint speech. When she did understand what Isla said, the meaning still remained obfuscated. Undeterred, for she couldn't imagine that she'd be selected to fight today after performing the group event, Indigo replied, ”Promise? I do not recall. I only remember your deeds. They do not speak highly of you.” Frenzy Plant's premier sorceress did not particularly care to get down to brass tacks right away, and instead decided to wait while the situation unfolded. She wanted to see what Isla would say for herself, in the minuscule chance that she might not be the monster her actions made her out to be.



Chester raised an eyebrow at Ike, as if something ludicrous had slipped his lips. Following the other man's selection, Chester stepped forward to the cart and opened an airtight box to remove a heel of still-fresh bread. He resealed the box with one hand before taking the bread with both and pulling on it. When he did so, the crust gave a sublime crackle, a lovely sound followed by a pleasing smell. Once these sensations had been thoroughly enjoyed, the beastmaster popped the bread into his mouth and chewed thoughtfully, working together a response to give Ike. Not everyone in this world could think up the perfect things to say on the fly, evidently.

A few moments under the peaceful noontime sun later, Chester swallowed and began to speak. ”It might seem lenient, but we're not forgetting about what happened. You got what's prolly gonna be a free ride because of the...oh, what's the word? Reber...? Ahm, repercussions, yeah. Repercussions of Isla's actions. It's not crazy to think that someone would go nuts for a while after being kidnapped for a month, then shown their kidnapper face-to-face.” Frost from the hex on the food cart has formed on Chester's goggles. He removed them, his squint hinting at his bad eyesight, and polished them on his jacket. With that done, he finished his thought. ”The thing is, you can't be dangerous again. The same excuse won't work again. Punishing Isla is up to the S-ranks and up, not you. If you go crazy again and hurt someone or break our stuff, you'll be held fully responsible. And if you kill one of us...well, whoever's left will kill you. That's why I'm not afraid of bein' alone with you. My comrades have my back, even if I can't see them.” He plucked at his beard. ”I didn't mean to sound threatening, but it's the truth. 'Do unto others'...you know. Anyway, enough of that stuff. Is there something else you want to do? I'll wager the duels are just about to start for today's Games.” He pointed toward the Doma Flau in the distance.

"Yeah, but... I couldn't go all out then like I could now. It would be too mean to blow everyone out of the water that way. A competition like this, I wouldn't have to feel bad. Bard's Magic is intended as performance magic, y'know."

She flicked her wrist and the violins disappeared, leaving Trinity to pluck at her harp idly. She turned to look at the TV, like Karn did. "Ooh, yeah. The fights will start soon. I've yet to fight, so I'm a little anxious for my turn."

[h1]Nidhogg[/i]

A small smile danced across Nidhogg face as he saw the three young ones cower in fear in his presence. While they had nothing to truly fear from him, as he'd taken a liking to all of them, he never let them know that. It was always good to make sure that they never got to comfortable with him, as he knew that the second Georgie wasn't a constant danger to his well being, he'd likely devour them all. The thought of their pint-sized guild master dampened his smile a tad,but he cleared it from his head for now, turning his attention back to the woman, raising an eyebrow as her heard her complain about Arthur trying to keep the others in line. "Oh, is that so? Arthur, while I'm sure that Georgie appreciates your puppy-like devotion to her, you should remember to relax enjoy yourself. No need to be so tense all of the time. Besides, you should realize that nothing is going to come of you trying to gain the affection of the psychotic bitch, right?"

Nidhogg made no attempt to hide the hatred that enters his voice as he spoke of their guild master, the more he thought about her, the deeper the scowl that was beginning to form on his face became. However, when Jessica came over, unabashedly unafraid of him as she normally was, he took a slight breath. "I should take my own advice and just enjoy the coming battles. It has been a while, indeed Jessica. Been busy doing errands for Georgie for the past month or so, suppressed to be doing one now in fact, but how could I miss the final day of the first Grand Magic Games in years. If she has a problem with it, she can come and tell me herself. I'm always glad to . . . debate with her." He tussled Jessica's hair a bit, a small smirk on his face, before he looked between Anya and the rest of them, finality noticing how she had greeted them and how the new woman had greeted Anya in return. "OH, so you've all met Anya before, then that saves me the trouble of having to introduce her. I met her while I was lazing about in the Phoenix Wing section. I believe we're currently engaged in a small game, where she tries to strip my clothes in order to find my guild mark, and I try to make it as difficult as possible for her. I made it in jest, but she's taken to it with a somewhat worrying level of determination, it makes me fear to be alone with her. Who knows what she'd do to me in a dark alley."

Nidhogg spoke in an over-dramatic tone, taking a mock pose of fear in the presence of Anya, before collapsing into a small fit of chuckles. Once he had finished , he turned his attention back to the woman, wondering whether or not he should kill her. The way she had mentioned Arthur's need to keep people out of trouble had set off some alarm bells in his head, but killing a mage was never a quiet affair and the last thing he wanted right now was to draw unwanted attention. Besides, she could be a potential recruit, as Shadow Hear was always accepting. "So, madam, while I've given my own name, you've still yet to give your own. Shall I have to resort to asking one of my companions before I learn it?"

@rivaan

[@Lunarlor34]

@Shikaru



As Gabriel escaped into the trees, the only response he'd hear from Argus was a light chuckle as the marooned haired mage turned around, walking back to through the forest and continuing his way towards the camp. Another comment made of Naivety, to think that all magic is simply a tool for the caster, and is never the other way around. Argus looked at his hand, his mind flashing back to the day where he first used his maid in ernest. The rage, the hatred, the despair, everything he felt had been consumed by this vessel that had grown within him. . . and it was hungry for more. Everyday it pushed him, probing his mind for weak points in his sanity and defenses so that it could bring out those emotions again, so that it could feed more on his suffering. Feeding it the anger and negativity helped to ease the assaults, but the effect was always temporary. Sooner or later, the game would be on again, as he fought the side of himself that just wanted to give in fully to the dark magic that coursed through his veins.

[i][colorDarkRed]You know the words. . . you have the tome . . . you NEED the power . . . ascend, Argus, ascend to divinity so that nothing and no one can ever be taken from you again.[/color][/i]

The voice of his other side came again, whispering in his mind and filing his mind with images and feelings he had long since gave up on trying to bury in the depth of his subconscious. The dark exhilaration as his blade cut through flesh, as he saw the yes of his foe glaze over, the life draining from them as the crowd around him roared with a primal shout. He had said he was forced to kill, and that had been true . . at first. But as the days turned to months, and the months to years, he felt something in him embrace the savagery of the arena. He felt a part of him want to lose the last vestige of humanity, to fully devote themselves to the act of killing. If not for his sister . . . he would've long given in. She had kept him human, kept him honest, reminded him of what he needed to be if he ever wanted to truly be free of that place.

And what did that get you? What did that get her? You killed all of your closest friends for her, and what did that accomplish but your own guilt and her death! You are weak, Argus, and you'll always be weak as long as you cling to those ideals. Give in to your bloodlust, or this conflict will destroy you.

. . . yeah . . and maybe I deserve to be destroyed? What good am I, with powers that can only destroy, kill, and never truly protect anything. This magic is a perfect representation of all negative human emotions, cause eventually, if you let them, they'll lead to nothing but your own self-destruction

Argus returned to the camp lost in his thoughts, not looking where he was going and not really caring either.

@Caits

@hatakekuro


As soon as the whole crowd began to die down, Marlene slowly sprung from her seat.

"Hey, Marlene, you alright?" asks Samir worryingly, "Your not going to do what I think your doing right?"

"No." the Crystal Maiden responds calmly, "I'm not going to him. Just going out for a short walk. I'll be back soon."

"Won't you'll miss the next game~?"

"I said don't worry."

Samir quickly acknowledges her decision and nods as she looks towards the now empty arena, getting ready for the next round.

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@Raijinslayer


Marlene quickly gets out of the stand, down the arena stairs, and out to the streets of Crocus. After that initial thought of going berserk over Nolan, she knew she had to get out of the arena, even if she felt like she was in control. Why is this happening to her? Is Nolan really that attractive to her? All she did was go for some teasing, realize his fear of women, and now trying to protect him from everyone else? She might as well call herself a yandere in this case. But unlike a yandere, she has control over herself. She's sure that this thought will go away. After all, that event happened just yesterday, so obviously its going to still be raw in her head. Maybe its too raw, but in every regards, she's going to be ok.

But low and behold, Marlene finds someone else instead. This someone... being Argus. Just laying eyes on him made her blood boiling. Comparing Nolan to Argus-bitch, is like comparing chocolate with wasabi. After his little "prank" move on having he and Enma being naked in front of everyone around them yesterday, Marlene vowed to get her revenge soon enough. And now, there he is, casually walking somewhere. This was her chance to get him back and have revenge! If it won't be now, then WHO knows when another chance will come.

Swiftly going behind him, Marlene begins to issue her move.

"Crystal Make: Punch!"

With that, pink quartz begin to silent form on her right fist and she runs behind Argus and issues a powerful "sucker-punch-of-revenge" on the back of his head. Surely this should send him off a few meters, maybe even crash into a wall too...

@Caits

Gamble

He chuckled at her response of things being hectic as of late. "So I saw. Does he... or she usually start talking like they are part of a improv group? Cause if so five stars. Yet I really don't have any more questions right now. Besides simple ones such as, how long youve been in Phoenix Wing. Yet that really wont deter me from my choice, so its not necessary to answer it. Yet I must apologize, I've probably kept you from your friends long enough. Have a nice day penny." Gamble said bowing before starting to walk away.

@Lugubrious

Ike Tsugi

Chester seemed to be the one to choose his words carefully, judging by him taking his good time to respond to him. Giving Ike enough time to finish his apple and then proceed to disintegrate the apples core with his magic, leaving only dust in his hand. That or he just really liked to take his time eating food, hell if he knew. Yet he could hear cheering in the distance so something of interest must have happened. He looked back at Chester who swallowed his bread and then began to speak.

He started off saying they wouldn't forget and he was more so forgiven because of Isla's repercussions which caused Ike to look away silently as he continued speaking. It was only him saying anyone would go crazy after being kidnapped for a month, that caused Ike to frown and glare at him. "A month? Yeah I said I remember being there for a month, yet I also remember saying I've been in there far longer than a month as well. Oh well, its in the past now. Or who knows, maybe it's in the future for you guys." Ike said his attempt at a joke but let Chester speak again after he cleaned his goggles. Yet the words afterwards didn't really make Ike any happier, if anything they only annoyed him even more. So when Chester finished and asked him what else he wanted to do and mentioned the duels were about to happen most likely, Ike simply shrugged. "I don't know, I've only been doing one thing while I was gone for who knows how long. That was training, yet apparently my actions won't matter as long as I'm still a weak B rank huh? Well then guess I know what I'm doing when we get back to the guild. Say Chester, tell me what is your rank in Frenzy Plant?" Ike asked before looking back at the Doma Flau and pointed at that as to signal that would do, to pre-occupy their time.

@Raijinslayer@Lmpkio

Riona Ynnir

She had been at the games for the entire day watching the Lacrima chase, yet it kind of got a bit boring for her tastes. Hence by her literal declaration of being bored and walking out of the Doma Flau and on her own adventure. Not much would be going on around the city minus the contestants getting their Lacrima. Wasn't enough action for her to be amused, besides Indigo was giving them a real hindrance anyway, so that was kind of funny. On the subject of Indigo, since she had decided Frenzy Plant was the bees knees and looked the most fun for her out of all the guilds she decided to do a little investigation of her own on their camp.

So by the time she reached the camp, she could tell by all the cheering that the games were over with and were heading into the duels. Thats was fine, she could always see re-caps of it anyway. She just had to be on her best behavior and not mention her past guild performances. She walked right past Chester and Ike and just waved at them both. "Cool hair, nice beard." She would say before continuing into the camp before bumping into a man that just radiated a negative aura. Yet just then though a woman who had crystal make ran up behind the man and attempted to I guess bash his brains in. Neat.

Yet She was much to distracted by the negativity of the man that she ended up walking in the way and poked his back. "Hey man, I can tell you are bummed out and all that but, you got to relax and just enjoy what is going on bef-" She didnt get to finish as that was when she got rammed in the face by a crystal punch and flopped on the ground in the distance. "Okay.... two can play the be bitches game. Just a heads up though. I'm a highly ranked player in the art." Riona said standing up and dusted her clothes off before walking back to the woman hot hit her, and then proceeded to spit on her shirt. Then launched her head forward to hit her head.

Argus blinked, trying to catch up to events as they occurred. He'd been walking towards nowhere, lost in the depths of his current depression, only for some random chick with orange hair and a large chest to suddenly poke him the back and then try to cheer him up. Before she could finish her sentence, however, another girl suddenly burst in and socked the first one in the face, leaving Argus to look at the budding confrontation with a bewildered look on his face.

As he looked between the two, he suddenly realized he actually knew the other one, raising a hand to give a slow wave as he recognized the features of his latest victim. Brown hair, Glasses, Crystal Magic, Hot temper . . "Hey D-cu- I mean, hey . . . glasses . . . I'll just leave you two to it then. Have fun." Argus then turned about face and proceeded to try and escape, not in the mood to deal with her right now. Before his talk with Gabriel he would've tried to talk her down and try to apologize, but right now, he just needed to be alone. That and h just recognized her by her chest size . . . he needed to find Ike sometime before he met with this girl, as he doubted that anything would get her to forgive him right now. She seemed to like holding grudges.

@Oblivion666

@Lmpkio

"My leg! If Ike got out I would get the function of my leg back right?!" Isla's expression seemed desperate for her need of her own leg. How many times had she fallen today or did she in general need the use of her leg to do a simple task. The small girl was also covered in mixtures of paint and dirt that she had been lying in today and yesterday which made the girl look even more like a mess. She averted her gaze again and gave a small pout. After a short minute of silence from the girl her lips moved but her soft talking didn't make it completely clear to what she had said "Pretty please..."

Gabriel

@t2wave
Gabriel looked up when the girl approached him, recognising her from the previous day. Another instance when he made things worse. He sighed, but she didn't seem to be angry with him. She apologised. Why did she have to apologise? He stared at her, uncertain, a little shocked. What did he do here? "Uh...okay..." He really did not know what to say.

He hesitated, not knowing what to do, if he should do anything. He shifted, glancing away. "Um. I hope everything is okay, after that" He said, quite lamely.

Sasha
@Silver Fox@CirusArvennicus
"You'll dp fine, Trinity. Master Jamie, nor Jarvis, wouldn't have put you in the games if they didn't have faith in you. All you have to do is your best" Sasha said to Trinity, giving her a smile, "And your magics diverse, so you should be able to surprise your opponent"

"I imagine we have some time to finish eating. The battles normally don't start for a little while after the event"

Penny
@oblivion666
"I've been in the guild for...perhaps five, six months" Had it been that long? Since the first S class exams,a t least. How could so much life changing experiences happen in such a short amount of time? "Hey, I'm S class, its what I'm meant to do. If I didn't want to, I'd hunt up Mayt or Damian to take over. I don't mind helping" She said, "So if you need any help, I'm happy to do so"

@CirusArvennicus@Caits

Karn resumed thinking once it was confirmed that there was some time to kill so there wasn't a rush. Mildly listening as the two chatted about the games and Trinity's capabilities in them. Silence resuming from the blonde vocally, though inside her mind was plenty of conversation to be had. Some unpleasant, but hey, everyone sort of talked to themselves within their mind. Basic thinking to oneself. It's just when one starts vocalizing them that they are seen as very ill or something. Perhaps if this world has the correct materials, the basic mechanics from the robotizied counterpart K49 and used as a skeleton, maybe meshing some silicon alloy stralium could be used to meld together proper copies of soft squishiness. Maybe also mold some more attractive fleshy bits and such. But maybe not. Extra bits were nice, but she wanted to stick to the original as close as possible so her friends didn't feel off by it. Then again... Maybe adding a little sizing device wouldn't be so bad for private moments. Maybe should make that a pet project if she gets a chance to.

Overall, the blonde was mostly silent in conversation with the people around her unless specifically spoken to. More focused in thinking to herself. She only came out of it when the waitress came over to ask what they were like. Karn hardly moved, giving the menu a once over before lazily pointing to something on the menu with her free hand.

"This please." she said before drawing her hand back after listening to the scribbling of pen stop. Her order was somewhat of a larger one she cared for, but estimating how hungry this body got after eating food not too long ago, a somewhat hefty meal would probably assist sustaining it. Two buttermilk pancakes, a waffle, two slices of bacon, some scrambled eggs with cheese, hashbrowns, and two slices of toast. She didn't recall ever eating this kind of food. She's heard of it and read about it, but didn't actually eat any of it.