FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Lorexander Deakena}

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: The Castle Dining Hall
Attire: Alexander's suit and Lorenzo’s fit
Interaction: Callum Danrose, Wulfric “Royal Highness 🙄” Danrose, Lottie, Olivia, Alibeth Danrose, Edin Danrose, Kazumin, Fritz,
Mention:

---

The animals in attendance

Queen Alibeth's criticism of Alexander's heavy-handed flattery had only served to provoke a slight and short-lived smirk. He kept his eyes on her in an attempt to read the regal woman but unlike others, she did not wear her emotions. She couldn't have been more different than her husband, and though on the surface the incapability appeared problematic, Alexander theorized it was in fact advantageous. It would be difficult to earn both their trust and both of their favor in a short time, and entertaining the whims of one could jeopardize a productive relationship with the other. Still, Alexander was fine with practicing patience, at least for the time being.

The couple expressed their thoughts on his offer, and he nodded affirmatively as he listened on, noting Alibeth's slight shift from identifying his ambitious nature to

“Offering to serve before proving you’re trustworthy is ambitious… Still… Caesonia does favor initiative. If you wish to take on responsibility, I trust you won’t fumble it. We’ll see what you're truly capable of soon enough.”

“That is exactly what I intend to show you... And thank you for the demonstration of that subtlety you mentioned.” Alexander shot her a single nod before he finally raised his wine glass. He then took a humble sip of its deep red contents as more guests entered the dining hall.

Then, suddenly, Prince Wulfric’s words swiped at him, sharp and cutting.

“Firstly, the proper style of address for a prince is 'Royal Highness',”

“Meanwhile, 'Grace' was historically used for monarchs but is now reserved for dukes,”

“As a royal advisor, you must, at the very least, familiarize yourself with the basics.”

Any trace of Alexander's smugness vanished, leaving to only look upon Wulfric with an attentive gaze. He remained composed, despite a wave of heat course through his body. Edin flaunted, Alibeth kept a thick cold wall in front of her, and Wulfric… he might as well be swinging a longsword, except he didn't strike directly. It was as if he was simply displaying Alexander how lethal he could be.

“Apolog- No. I will assure you of this, your Royal Highness.” Alexander’s gaze was without a blink as he watched the Prince eat between his given lesson.

“Secondly, I select all my servants with painstaking care, and you have yet to prove your worth.”

“However, I suppose…I might be convinced...” The smirk from Wulfric forced him to avert his gaze… avert his true feelings. He just listened in, his sharp ears collecting Wulfric's every word.

“If,”

“You bring me Marek Delronzo’s head.”

Alexander was quick to return his gaze, a hint of a smile upon his face as Wulfric chuckled. He was on the cusp on joining in on the hysterics but that would only confuse the prince. It would incur too much thinking from the clever, and Alexander could not have that happen so soon.

“I’ll keep that desire in mind, your Royal Highness.” Sharing a smile, Alexander delivered a nod before lightly tapping his temple. Wulfric proved himself to be formidable, but as much as Alexander wished to play such a dangerous game with the prince, his attention needed to be shifted elsewhere.

(Author’s note: Take that Silverpaw 😝. TAKE THAT!)

On the other end of the table, Lorenzo had been pondering some of what Charlotte had told him, even though something much more pressing plagued his thoughts as he glanced around the dining hall.

“Actually, Lorenzo, I am beginning to suspect that Alexander Deacon may not be the most good-hearted of gentlemen—”

Lorenzo felt it was always the well-dressed ones that wound up being rotten apples, or perhaps he was just making that up so he could find an excuse to lump Wulfric in with Alexander. From where he sat, the two seemed like they could be good friends By the gods! He made him laugh?! How the hell did he do thaaat?! Lorenzo stared their way longer than necessary before he replayed what Charlotte had said once more. He'd look away from now, and ignore the new friendship blossoming between them.

Unfortunately, that pulled his attention toward the pressing matter that plagued him. A malnourished bear, that pigeon from the theater, and an overweight dog. Lorenzo held a look of disgust but in truth he was extremely jealous that he had not brought Kier along. Damnit Nathaniel! His servant had urged and practically begged Lorenzo not to bring his ferret to this event specifically. He even mentioned that no one would dare bring their animal companions to an event where food would be the centerpiece!

“Ridiculous.” He commented as he shook his head before he continued to dig into his food. With more and more guests showing up, Lorenzo occasionally popped his head up to wave to acquaintances and friends while choosing not to even acknowledge those he did not like or was unfamiliar with. However, the back of Count Damien’s head received a good scowling from the Duke, not thinking about if anyone else witnessed it. Count Fritz managed to get a lively wave, since the man made an effort to wave first.

Things were going quite swimmingly, yet something was off. Charlotte and Olivia were too quiet for his comfort. Even when the talented puppet master showed up in his vibrant outfit that put even the Alidasht royalty to shame. Nothing. Not a peep.

“Lot-” She had already gotten up from her seat and beelined her way across the dining hall. He shot a look at Olivia with a raised eyebrow, silently asking her what was going on with his daughter. Naturally, his eyes shifted to Kazumin next. “That suit… I don't care what anyone thinks or says… That gets my stamp of approval.” He nodded while considering him as a potential for courting Charlotte as a second option. Perhaps he could make her smile… unlike a certain someone. He glanced at Alexander once more, watching as the man conversed with those around him.

“Lady Violet Damien. Beauty personified… and Lord Roman Ravenwood. A true man’s man. You two make me feel even luckier about my assigned seating.” He showed off his pearly whites, smiling enthusiastically between the pair. “The only person we're missing from the Art Gallery is Lady Vikena… A shame but we'll make due and- Oh! Lord Ravenwood, if you desire it, perhaps one of you could swap seats with myself. You two seem to be seated a space too far from each other. Then again, the powers that be…” He subtly nodded his head to his right. “Might not allow that. Good thing it's just me. You can consider me harmless, right Violet?”

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Race: Changeling
Class: Part-Time Fighter
Location: Upper Viewing Lounge, Airship to Khorvaire
Interactions: Bastion, Bobi, Arya @PapaOso, @tracxyx, @Potter
Mentions: Menzai @samreaper
Equipment:

Equipment

⋆ Lots of Clothes
⋆ Arming sword
⋆ Battle-axe
⋆ Mace
⋆ Daggers
⋆ Bow & Arrows
⋆ Shortsword
⋆ Leather Armor
⋆ Half-plate Armor
⋆ Hide Armor
⋆ Toolkit
⋆ Camping Equipment
⋆ Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE
⋆ Magnifying glass
⋆ Diary
⋆ Sketchbook
⋆ Pencils
⋆ Dried and Cured Meats
⋆ Nuts
⋆ Second Locked Chest with self-care products
⋆ Bag of holding

Attire: beige trousers, brown tunic, and worn brown boots
Gold Balance: 5
Injuries: None currently
Current Persona: Wendel

---

“You move very well.”

Wendel briefly raised an eyebrow at Bastion's odd compliment to the barkeep before considering that it could be appropriate for Warforged to say such things to one another. Besides that, Bastion did not seem to have a lecherous bolt in his body and couldn't have meant any harm. If he did in fact say something in poor taste, Wendel was sure he could help Bastion when it came to social interactions, at least for the short time they’d have together.

“Is it your first time at a b-” Wendel was interrupted by the startling sight of a flying red-bearded gnome of all things crashing into Gear’s breastplate.

“My…” Wendel had thought he had seen it all, and was damned proud of that fact too but now he found himself staring down at the gnome with his mouth slightly agape. The gnome was as strange as his entrance as he now smoothly posed himself against the bar while attempting to flirt with the same person he crashed into. All the while, something appeared to be writhing beneath his clothes.

“I don't want to assume, gnome, but you're not-” Again, Wendel was interrupted. This time it was from the eagle mounted on the cloaked woman, pecking at her skull. With his eyes now shot open, Wendel balled a fist, prepared to clock the eagle hard enough to be considered a new exclusive item on the dinner menu. He’d pluck the feathers off at himself.

Luckily, he noticed the young woman speaking back to the eagle rather than screaming bloody murder that the creature was attempting to publicly scalp her. The timing was too narrow for comfort. With a tired sigh, Wendel lowered his fist and shook his head, disappointed in how impulsively he had nearly been. He almost broke two of the rules as well.

No fighting… No making a butt out of yourself…

No drinking…

For once, he felt like he was one of the problem children of the ‘crew’.

“Whew…” Wendel almost voiced what he had intended to do but kept it to himself so as to not cause any unnecessary panic… or ‘make a butt of himself.’

And though the brief moment of chaos failed to compromise him, it gave him even more reason for needing that mead he’d been patiently waiting for.

He turned to look back at the eagle but his eyes fixed upon the cloaked woman who no longer wore the hood that hid her most prominent features: skin resembling the starry night sky that one would only see far from the busy cities and towns, ebony-hued curved horns that were a mark of her fiendish bloodline, stark white wavy hair tied into a single braid hanging down past her shoulder, and last but surely not least, her kind sky blue eyes. Their hue contrasted with her complexion in what they resembled rather than their actual difference in color.

But where Wendel identified beauty, another saw something more vile.

”Tiefling filth!” Wendel turned from the bar to lock eyes with the one who said such a heinous thing. There was a rare fire building up within but the purple-haired shifter reacted faster. A fitting thing as Wendel was no longer the proud and rambunctious fellow he had been in his youth. He had a different role to fill these days.

Turning to face the bar, he looked at the Tiefling from the corners of his eyes. For a second he was afraid of what his comfort might produce from the stranger but that quickly washed away in knowing he'd rather do something good at the expense of making himself vulnerable to however she chose to react.

“There’s no use in you acknowledging that type of talk, lass. Filth? He's a blind fool, that one. Beauty is what I see… That Dragonborn is fortunate that he didn't say such a thing to the Tiefling companion I know.” A light chuckle escaped him. “Ah, Vrexen… he would have made quite the scene, that one… My name's Wendel by the way.” He spoke not only to Arya but Stella as well when introducing himself.

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Race: Changeling
Class: Part-Time Fighter
Location: Upper Viewing Lounge, Airship to Khorvaire
Interactions: Bastion and Gears @PapaOso
Mentions: Meiyu, Scratch & Val, Ezekiel, Phia, Menzai, Arya @Tae, @Apex Sunburn, @Helo, @princess, @samreaper, @Potter
Equipment:

Equipment

⋆ Lots of Clothes
⋆ Arming sword
⋆ Battle-axe
⋆ Mace
⋆ Daggers
⋆ Bow & Arrows
⋆ Shortsword
⋆ Leather Armor
⋆ Half-plate Armor
⋆ Hide Armor
⋆ Toolkit
⋆ Camping Equipment
⋆ Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE
⋆ Magnifying glass
⋆ Diary
⋆ Sketchbook
⋆ Pencils
⋆ Dried and Cured Meats
⋆ Nuts
⋆ Second Locked Chest with self-care products
⋆ Bag of holding

Attire: beige trousers, brown tunic, and worn brown boots
Gold Balance: 5
Injuries: None currently
Current Persona: Wendel

---

One might imagine the experience of shaking a giant, cold, metallic hand discomforting, but Wendel could not help but widen his smile while shaking Bastion’s hand. It was by far the firmest and heaviest handshake he'd ever had in his life.

“Bastion… Bastion is a strong name. The name of a defender…” Wendel slightly shifted his body to face the birds flying alongside the airship, finding the pastime of the Warforged a reflection of his nature. It was then he figured this Warforged that had stood strong and tall by his lonesome, was as gentle as the fabric of his blue patterned scarf. “The name of a protector.” He added, finding a word that more suitably matched Bastion's character.

The moment of serenity beside the gentle spirit houses in a mechanized frame was blissful, yet short. To sip tea alongside someone who could be a friend was a rare moment for Wendel. Each and every persona had something they coveted or craved. This… For Wendel, this was a treasure. Murmurs and whispers filled the air on another part of the deck but Wendel simply ignored it, at least at first. He’d seen enough in his life to not be drawn by a small crowd. He figured someone might have collapsed from air sickness or inebriation. It wasn't until he heard a raised voice chastise the gathered passengers that he stole a glance, and my was it a sight his eyes were lucky to catch. His glance nearly became gawk but he caught a hold of himself while eyeing the beautiful woman draped in a black kimono amongst what he could only assume was the airship’s medics and a young man requiring their attention. He turned back to face the sky, his ears now tingling with warmth

Again he was reminded his decision to come to the top deck was a good one. Warforged, a splendid view, beautiful women, and a bar. He gave an affirmative nod at the pleasant circumstance.

“You are welcome to remain. I do not mind company. Though, I was intending to go over there.” Wendel followed Bastion’s pointed finger toward the bar, completely saving him from stealing another glance to confirm the beauty of the mystery woman.

“Ah… the bar.”

“Would you like to join me, Mr. Wendel?”

“Of course, Bastion. I have been in the mood for some mead for a bit now. Let’s go, my friend. We can get acquainted with another Warforged and maybe some others.” Wendel nodded at the bar’s current collection of customers before he moved from the rail and rolled his shoulders to ensure they hadn't stiffened up from his leaning.

Alongside Bastion, he walked to the bar but stopped mid-stride as he saw the available open spots at the bar beside two young women. One dressed similar to a nomad with remarkably pink hair and the other had a cloak concealing her form. Making a gamble, Wendel took the vacant spot to the right of the cloaked woman. He figured he'd be fine since she was so covered up. The safe option. Sure, he could have placed Bastion as a buffer but he knew of the prejudice the Warforged suffered and didn't want to cause any unnecessary panic. And though the bartender was a Warforged as well, the desire for a bar’s refreshments likely overrode the enmity one might feel toward whoever served them.

“Here!” Wendel took a seat on a stool, resting his journal and tea cup on the bar counter. With the cup’s contents both scant and lukewarm, Wendel decided to take a big swig of it to finish it off. “Hello, barkeep. I am lucky- no, I am happy to say I have met two Warforged today. My name's Wendel and this fellow here is Bastion,” he greeted warmly, admiring Gears as he had from a distance moments before. He hadn't noticed he cut into the pink-haired Elf’s conversation, but if he had, apologies would be in order… In this case, Wendel took charge of the conversation with Gears. “I was wondering if you served mead here. You see, I was left a menu in my room after boarding, but sadly I didn't see mead listed.” He frowned slightly with the same disappointment he felt when he had discovered this earlier.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Lorexander Deakena}

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: The Castle Dining Hall
Attire: Alexander's suit and Lorenzo’s fit

Interaction: Callum Danrose, Wulfric Spicemaster Danrose, Poor Lottie, Olivia “got that chain on” Vikena? Alibeth Danrose, Edin Danrose
Mention:

---

“Alexander Deacon? Oh, Alexander Deacon!” Looked across the table, exchanging another look with the man who toured the art gallery with Charlotte. Again, they exchanged smiles.

What a fool of a man.
He and I will have to speak tonight! I can tell him about today's achievement. That oughta wow a man of his standing

“Lottie, please make sure to introduce him and me before the night's over… and Olivia, that pendant looks wonderful!” Lorenzo exclaimed as he started to fill his plate with food he could actually recognize tonight. Thinking about the dinner with the Alidasht Royal Family made him look up from his plate only to spot something rather interesting. “Ohhh! Grand Vizier! You've made it, my friend! I see you're in the correct chair this evening. Salami-aleekum and enjoy your meal Grand Vizier!” Lorenzo found that his voice traveled quite well from his position, though he was not sure if that was intentional or a design flaw in organizing the seating arrangements.

Meanwhile, across the way, Alexander dug a fork into his food, eating rather conservatively. It wouldn't offer him any sustenance and he'd look quite classy with the way he was eating.

“I fancy the suit, Prince Callum. To think we share the same tailor is quite the honor,” he commented humbly before his eyes set on Prince Wulfric Danrose. Alexander’s welcoming smile never faded, but deep down, he couldn't wait to be rid of the crowned prince.

How would he do it?

His imagination kept up his smile. The where. The when. The method. He could copy what he had done to Darryn. Lackluster as it seemed, it would show the Prince how highly Alexander actually viewed him without the princely adornment crowned upon his head.

“Prince Wulfric, your grace I…”

Be timid…

“I heard rumor that you're quite the hard working man.”

...appear weak.

“If you don't mind, I wish to be vassal of yours who could undertake some of the tasks you've found yourself responsible of. Allow me to remove things from your plate of duties, especially in these times. Princes shouldn't be burdened so much during the courting season, isn't that right my King and Queen?” Alexander took another bite from his fork.

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Race: Changeling
Class: Part-Time Fighter
Location: Upper Viewing Lounge, Airship to Khorvaire
Equipment:

Equipment

⋆ Lots of Clothes
⋆ Arming sword
⋆ Battle-axe
⋆ Mace
⋆ Daggers
⋆ Bow & Arrows
⋆ Shortsword
⋆ Leather Armor
⋆ Half-plate Armor
⋆ Hide Armor
⋆ Toolkit
⋆ Camping Equipment
⋆ Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE
⋆ Magnifying glass
⋆ Diary
⋆ Sketchbook
⋆ Pencils
⋆ Dried and Cured Meats
⋆ Nuts
⋆ Second Locked Chest with self-care products
⋆ Bag of holding

Attire: beige trousers, brown tunic, and worn brown boots
Gold Balance: 5
Injuries: None currently
Current Persona: Wendel

---

“Ugh…”

Wendel somberly peered down at the brown coin sack and an open hardcover book at his table whilst he sat comfortably in one of the Upper Viewing Lounge’s plush seats.

Plan: Purchase tickets for the Stormrider airship to Khovaire. We should buy out a single room with multiple cots for privacy and so there won't be any problem when things change. Let's keep it to a maximum of four changes, please.

-Nessa

Used the rest of the funds to purchase three private rooms on the Stormrider. The keys are in our bag. In the event of any sudden changes, try to use a second room. The third room should be left vacant for me if I happen to make it onto the airship. It's a suitable reward for my thoughtfulness. Keep the maximum changes to three. Thank you.

-Lady Eleanor Meridian

Also, replenish the pouch. I cannot afford to live on five gold coins.

The gruff old dwarf let out the lowest of groans, his shoulders slumping down at the poor decisions that were outside of his control. He wasn't sure if he'd rather not be the one to deal with this dilemma or if he simply wished Eleanor did not have to be such a spoiled brat. He nearly grumbled a foul insult aimed at the woman but noticing his cup of tea returned him to his center. Grabbing the cup while wishing it was mead instead, Wendel took a careful sip before setting it back onto the table.

“Damned girl.” Wendel was unable to keep himself from cursing. Tea was wonderful, yet it had its limits. These seats aren't even all that great, and I’m sure the view is better from the bar deck judging from its positioning… Wendel turned his head, only to make eye contact with the elven couple side-eyeing him again. Sighing, he collected his things. And I’m tired of these snobby youngins staring at me like I'm a rogue or a stowaway. I paid for this ticket. The proof’s in my sack! And with a mild gruff, the old dwarf made his leave from the Upper Viewing Lounge with his warm cup of tea in hand and his journal tucked beneath his opposite arm.

And so, Wendel toured the airship, without rhyme or reason to his path. He just took in the scenery, on and off the vessel that carried everyone aboard to their desired destination of Khovaire. He had missed his home continent for quite some time and was happy to be in a familiar place where he could rely on the societies he knew like the back of his hand.

Every so often, he'd stop in place to take a short sip from his cup followed by an exhale of satisfaction. Still, he yearned for his tea to be mead. Just a taste wouldn't hurt. As long as he did not let sweet alcoholic nectar take hold of him, he would not invoke an unwanted change. However, Miris and Nessa had written out the rules quite clearly. No drinking. No fighting. No overworking. No making a butt of yourself. No violence. The last one was specifically for Vrexen who'd never read it in the journal. Still, it was scribbled bold and large on the page.

After five minutes of his deepest contemplation, Wendel reached the top deck with his eyes set on the bar serviced by a… Warforged!

“Ah… Ooh… Magnificent!” He said under his breath but his excitement was impossible for one to miss. Stopped in his tracks, he marveled at her from afar. Wendel had always found these beings to be rather extraordinary from the first time he set eyes on them. He took a step forward before noticing something bigger. Not just big in proportions but in terms of a finding. As he laid his eyes on Bastion, a heavily reinforced towering warforged, Wendel found himself smitten with joy. Unbeknownst to him, he was walking a fine line between remaining as himself and changing into someone else.

“I knew it.” Wendel said as he walked over to approach Bastion with the warmest smile he could muster. “I knew it I knew it. I knew it! I knew it was the right choice to leave smug folk on the Upper Lounge. Just look at you!” Wendel exclaimed looking up at Bastion. “You’re a fine sight to behold, young man- hmm…” He squinted closely at Bastion's frame before piping up again. “Apologies. The wear and tear tells me you might be my peer… or scratch that, you might be my senior! You wear your age well, my friend. Far better than I.” He chuckled and leaned his side against the railing to keep the journal tucked as he extended his hand out. “My name's Wendel. Mind if I join you? The view is much better from here.” He took a short look at the birds flying alongside the airship, not only happy with his decision but also with the thought of only having five gold coins to his name far from his thoughts.

He even forgot about the mead.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 6p.m.
Location: Castle Dining Room
Attire: Tripleting Banquet Fit!
Interaction: Charlotte, Olivia, Alexander, King Edin, Queen Alibeth
Mention: Wulfric, Anastasia

Lorenzo spent the entire afternoon telling every person at the Sorian Vikena Estate about how his performance had won over the other performances at the theater. He exaggerated some, like mentioning Prince Wulfric holding back tears beneath that stoic expression of his and how Anastasia was so moved by his performance, she attempted to mimic the ambience he had set for the audience. No one was safe, except Charlotte who only needed to listen to an abbreviated version of the events due to her attendance at the art gala. He wished she could have seen his performance but he also knew courting season was important for a developing woman. He was not completely comfortable with the idea of her being courted by different suitors but as long her reputation remained better than Mina Blackwood's, he'd continue to allow her to participate.

“Alexander Deacon?” Lorenzo had no idea who this man was but had been sure he did not hold a relevant title. At least until Delilah said otherwise, getting her information by way of gossip. She had presented the nicely written letter, and immediately his worries died down. Vice President of The Black Rose Trading Company? Royal Advisor?! And it's a business meeting with Lottie? How wonderful!” Lorenzo had pined, only knowing the company for the face it presented to the public.

The clock ticked away, until it was time for Lorenzo, Charlotte, and Olivia to attend yet another event hosted by King Edin. In addition to the banquet, there was also an official meeting with Prince Wulfric and the other dukes. At first he had been annoyed at the thought of having to speak about official business during such a comfy event, but he soon. figured Wulfric was simply hiding the fact that he'd be presenting him with a medal or trophy for his performance today. With that belief he made sure he’d stand out even more than usual. Red would be the color for tonight!

As Lorenzo and his company entered the dining hall, he removed his top hat and strode in with his head held high.

"Presenting… Lord of Theater, Duke Lorenzo Vikena and Lady Charlotte Vikena of Veirmont, accompanied by Lady Olivia Vik..en..a?” Lorenzo gave the room a subtle wave and grin at the announcement of their arrival before the trio had their seats pulled out for them. However, before anyone seated, Lorenzo looked far across the table, greeting the King and Queen with a bright smile before performing bow, while he assumed Charlotte and Olivia went for their best curtsies.

Briefly, Lorenzo moved to sit down but paused upon spotting Alexander Deacon also seated far across the table. The two exchanged a smile before Lorenzo pulled at his deep red jacket with an excited look on his face. Alexander mirrored his gesture, tugging on his own jacket, noting they were wearing very similar colors but he then he pointed toward Prince Callum who had entered wearing something similar.

“Girls, it looks like I have a twin- No… We’re TRIPLETS!” Lorenzo’s jaw dropped as he lightly pushed at Charlotte’s arm upon spotting Prince Callum wearing a similar deep red suit. “Prince Callum and uh… who is he, Charlotte?” He asked genuinely, revealing he had been gesturing so openly with a stranger.

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Miris

^{Sheet Music}

Miris ⋆ 32 ⋆ Fluid ⋆ Changeling ⋆ Part-Time Fighter

---

Appearance

Height: Fluid but normally with a range between 5 and 7 feet depending on her form.

Weight: Fluid.

Hair Color: Fluid

Eye Color: Fluid

Skin Tone: Fluid

Distinguishing Features: Fluid.

Clothing Style: Varies.

---

Psychology

Likes:

⋆ The fresh and new, even if it is unwelcoming

⋆ Reading books, especially her journal

⋆ Exploration and adventure

⋆ A good thrill

Dislikes:

⋆ Unaddressed tension

⋆ Reluctance

⋆ The rules that happen to be in her way at the time

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Unwillingly transforms into one of her eight additional personas

⋆ She's almost unusually particular about what she eats and drinks.

⋆ She often and casually showcases how nimble and dexterous she is. It almost like her form of fidgeting

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ As chaotic as her living situation is, Miris would very much like to continue her adventuring. Settling down in a pasture isn't something she's looking for. Living life a little fast and a little loose is her comfort.

⋆ Prove that her abnormal changing is not a bad dilemma by living her life moment to moment. It's pretty bad though, so this is mostly her being in denial.

⋆ What she truly wants, is a way to regulate her changes so that she may better organize her life.

Sexuality: Bisexual

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 2 (with her life, she sees it as a hard thing to manage)

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 2 (same as above)

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 4
Kindness(1-5): 4
Chattiness(1-5): 4
Trustfulness (1-5): 2
Sense of Humor (1-5): 4
Loyalty (1-5): 3
Selflessness (1-5): 2
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 3
Arrogance(1-5):: 4

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 4
Temperance (1-5): 5
Forgiveness (1-5): 3
Courage (1-5): 4
Stubbornness (1-5): 3
Pacifism(1-5): 1
Impulsiveness (1-5): 1
Creativity (1-5): 4
Mercy (1-5): 3
Charisma(1-5) 4

---

Darius

Likes:

⋆ Social events of any kind

⋆ Sharing tales of his past adventures and conquests

⋆ Making new acquaintances

⋆ Telling jokes

Dislikes:

⋆ Overly serious situations

⋆ Most forms of danger unless it's tied to a beautiful woman

⋆ Know-it-alls

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Mostly always has a smile on his face

⋆ He's fairly open-minded about people

⋆ Uses the word “deal” to confirm any agreement

⋆ Sometimes he uses strange terms that don't seem to make sense to anyone but him

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ Darius just wants to live out life one experience at a time. He never seems to have any long term goals and is typically searching for the next best thing

⋆ He'd like to grow crusty and old with nothing but his tales and the people dearest to him gathered around. He values a quality life but also long lived one too. One might think this is his second chance at it

Sexuality: Heterosexual

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 5

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 4

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 5
Kindness(1-5): 5
Chattiness(1-5): 5
Trustfulness (1-5): 4
Sense of Humor (1-5): 5
Loyalty (1-5): 5
Selflessness (1-5): 4
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 4
Arrogance(1-5): 4

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 1
Temperance (1-5): 2
Forgiveness (1-5): 4
Courage (1-5): 2
Stubbornness (1-5): 4
Pacifism(1-5): 3
Impulsiveness (1-5): 5
Creativity (1-5): 5
Mercy (1-5): 5
Charisma(1-5) 5

---

Eleanor Meridian

Likes:

⋆ High-class living

⋆ Fancy venues

⋆ The city, but not so much the bustle

⋆ Shopping

⋆ Desserts, but pretends she doesn't to maintain her figure

⋆ Surprisingly has a soft spot for children

Dislikes:

⋆ Uncleanliness

⋆ Disorganization

⋆ People who she believes have no business speaking because she considers them too stupid or lacking in funds

⋆ The wilderness

⋆ Food she doesn't recognize

⋆ Drunks

⋆ Being looked down on or being treated like a commoner

⋆ Every persona's taste in clothing except Nessa’s and sometimes Miris.

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Checks her appearance a little more than normal

⋆ Can't help but to wrinkle her nose when she finds something to be disgusting

⋆ Is rather bad at hiding her distaste. She'll probably tell you in private, too, and then tell everyone else about it behind your back

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ She wants to be wed to a wealthy lord

⋆ Live a life of luxury

Sexuality: Heterosexual

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 1

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 5 but she is very high maintenance

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 3
Kindness(1-5): 1
Chattiness(1-5): 4
Trustfulness (1-5): 4
Sense of Humor (1-5): 1
Loyalty (1-5): 3
Selflessness (1-5): 1
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 2
Arrogance(1-5): 5

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 2
Temperance (1-5): 3
Forgiveness (1-5): 2
Courage (1-5): 3
Stubbornness (1-5): 4
Pacifism(1-5): 5
Impulsiveness (1-5): 3
Creativity (1-5): 3
Mercy (1-5): 2
Charisma(1-5): 1

---

Malikendor of the Shifting Sands “Malik”

Likes:

⋆ Being active and on the move

⋆ Hunting for food

⋆ Camping

⋆ Nature and all the creatures that dwell in it

⋆ Friendly competition

Dislikes:

⋆ Thugs and bandits

⋆ People he thinks talk too loud or too much

⋆ Big cities

⋆ Poorly timed jokes.

⋆ Being indoors for too long

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ If he ever feels that nothing is happening, he will check his equipment or stretch

⋆ If indoors for a while, he may position himself by a window or close to the exit

⋆ He is often searching for vantage points in any given area

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ To keep those close to him protected

⋆ Remain in tune with nature and not upsetting its balance

⋆ To die strong in battle rather than weak in age

Sexuality: Bisexual

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 5

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 4

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 4
Kindness(1-5): 5
Chattiness(1-5): 2
Trustfulness (1-5): 5
Sense of Humor (1-5): 2
Loyalty (1-5): 5
Selflessness (1-5): 5
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 1
Arrogance(1-5):: 2

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 5
Temperance (1-5): 5
Forgiveness (1-5): 5
Courage (1-5): 5
Stubbornness (1-5): 4
Pacifism(1-5): 2
Impulsiveness (1-5): 1
Creativity (1-5): 3
Mercy (1-5): 5
Charisma(1-5): 4

---

Skarsnaga “Skar”

Likes:

⋆ Battle

⋆ Spoils of battle

⋆ Live-testing weapons

⋆ Hunting for sport or food

⋆ Testing her strength

Dislikes:

⋆ Writing

⋆ Reading

⋆ Running errands

⋆ Raging fires or the thought of being burned

⋆ Tiny things

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Short with words

⋆ Ignores the demands of those whom she considers to be weak

⋆ May default herself as the leader and spokesperson of a group she's with if she doesn't recognize a leadership figure

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ To slay until the end of days

⋆ Because she has a penchant for conflict, she may choose to escalate a situation to get her desired outcome

⋆ She wants to lead orcs someday in the way of battle and believes like the warforged, Orcs were born for combat and not druidism

Sexuality: Bisexual and would practice polygamy unless her “mate” was well respected by her.

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 1

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 2

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 1
Kindness(1-5): 1
Chattiness(1-5): 1
Trustfulness (1-5): 1
Sense of Humor (1-5): 2
Loyalty (1-5): 2
Selflessness (1-5): 1
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 1
Arrogance(1-5):: 5

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 1
Temperance (1-5): 2
Forgiveness (1-5): 1
Courage (1-5): 5
Stubbornness (1-5): 5
Pacifism(1-5): 1
Impulsiveness (1-5): 5
Creativity (1-5): 4
Mercy (1-5): 1
Charisma(1-5) 1

---

Nessa

Likes

⋆ Books and libraries, especially if they're old

⋆ Tomb raiding, archeological digs, exploring ancient locations

⋆ Collecting artifacts

⋆ The world's mysteries

⋆ Piecing together clues and puzzles

⋆ Calming music

⋆ Incense

⋆ Writing journal entries

Dislikes:

⋆ Crowds

⋆ Close-minded people

⋆ People who can't be team players

⋆ The inconsiderate

⋆ Bright lights

⋆ Becoming intoxicated

⋆ When her journal isn't helpful

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ She hums to herself often without realizing it

⋆ Though usually well-tempered, ancient things bring the emotions right out of her, whether she's fangirling over finding coins from a nearly forgotten civilization or flipping out on someone for knocking over a dusty old flower vase.

⋆ She ponders aloud.

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ She dreams of discovering the cause for the magical cataclysm in Cyre.

⋆ Wants to make her mark on history through her findings rather than being some hero with a sword

⋆ Currently, she has been pushing for the other personas to seek out the mysteries of Mourncland by using her journal. So far, she has persuaded all but three.

Sexuality: Bisexual but is oblivious when it comes to romance.

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 3

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 3

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 2
Kindness(1-5): 4
Chattiness(1-5): 4
Trustfulness (1-5): 5
Sense of Humor (1-5): 3
Loyalty (1-5): 5
Selflessness (1-5): 4
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 1
Arrogance(1-5): 2

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 4
Temperance (1-5): 4
Forgiveness (1-5): 4
Courage (1-5): 3
Stubbornness (1-5): 3
Pacifism(1-5): 4
Impulsiveness (1-5): 3
Creativity (1-5): 4
Mercy (1-5): 5
Charisma(1-5): 3

---

Vrexen

Likes:

⋆ Violence

⋆ Meat (raw or cooked)

⋆ Violence

⋆ Freedom

⋆ Violence

⋆ The night

⋆ Violence

⋆ A good joke

Dislikes:

⋆ Day

⋆ Produce, but will conform to eating sweet fruits

⋆ Showing mercy to enemies

⋆ Anything that takes too long to explain

⋆ Using the journal

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ He is oddly patient. He will sit in one spot and wait for something to occur. He understands violence is inevitable, and he just sits quietly thinking about how the next experience of it will be

⋆ He sometimes mutters to himself

⋆ His bark is stronger than his bite when it comes to those he considers himself aligned with.

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ He is driven by the desire to inflict violence and can only resist for a set amount of time. There are some ways to remedy or accelerate his eventual meltdown

⋆ He wishes to be welcomed into the Abyss so that he made embrace his demonic heritage but until that day comes, he is just a wannabe demon tiefling

Sexuality: You gotta ask him.

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 1

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 1

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 2
Kindness(1-5): 1
Chattiness(1-5): 2
Trustfulness (1-5): 1
Sense of Humor (1-5): 2
Loyalty (1-5): 2
Selflessness (1-5): 1
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 1
Arrogance(1-5): 4

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 5
Temperance (1-5): 2
Forgiveness (1-5): 1
Courage (1-5): 5
Stubbornness (1-5): 5
Pacifism(1-5): 1
Impulsiveness (1-5): 4
Creativity (1-5): 3
Mercy (1-5): 1
Charisma(1-5): 1

---

Minerva

Likes:

⋆ The outdoors

⋆ Banter and teasing

⋆ Hunting

⋆ A good strong drink

⋆ Startling and unnerving others

⋆ Taking midday naps

⋆ Hearing about what the personas got into rather than reading the journal

Dislikes:

⋆ Feeling restricted physically, mentally, socially, or romantically

⋆ Missing her midday nap

⋆ High-strung individuals

⋆ Having limited “play time”

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Poking others with her nails as a sign of affection

⋆ Says “good boy” or “good girl” to those who agree with or does what she wants

⋆ Can't whisper to save her life

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ She wishes to find a way to live her own full life as a true Shifter

⋆ Wants friends or a family she can truly call her own

⋆ Wants to meet her other personas some way and has been convinced by Nessa that the answer may be in Mournland

Sexuality: Bisexual but very non-committal but ALSO very territorial. I should have just put “very toxic.”

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 5

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 5

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 5
Kindness(1-5): 3
Chattiness(1-5): 4
Trustfulness (1-5): 2
Sense of Humor (1-5): 5
Loyalty (1-5): 4
Selflessness (1-5): 3
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 5
Arrogance(1-5): 4

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 1
Temperance (1-5): 1
Forgiveness (1-5): 2
Courage (1-5): 5
Stubbornness (1-5): 5
Pacifism(1-5): 2
Impulsiveness (1-5): 5
Creativity (1-5): 3
Mercy (1-5): 2
Charisma(1-5): 4

---

Wendel

Likes:

⋆ Crafting and tinkering

⋆ Reading, especially on current events in the news

⋆ Reorganizing the shared items

⋆ To be involved in planning anything. Travel, an attack, or even a birthday party

⋆ Hot drinks, but he also doesn't skimp out on mead

Dislikes:

⋆ His old age

⋆ Reckless folk

⋆ Lies. He knows it's necessary at times but dislikes it all the same

⋆ Unnecessary pleasantries and odd customs. He's too old for that shit

Habits/Quirks:

⋆ Strokes his beard when he's thinking

⋆ Points out flaws in architecture, devices, and overall design

⋆ Often hangs back during fights. He feels he's more useful in pointing out details to others rather than slowing the younger folks down. However, he will fight if he needs to

⋆ Gets flustered by promiscuous women. He tries to hide it but his cheeks flush and he starts to stutter.

Dreams/Motivations:

⋆ He wants to see where Miris leads him; he understands he is not the only person behind the steering wheel of his life, so he simply chooses to go with the flow of things

⋆ Like above, he aims to see the dreams of his companions come true if they are noble or to his liking. His era has long passed.

Sexuality: Heterosexual

Willingness to make friends(1-5): 5

Willingness toward romance(1-5): 2

Personality:

Engaging With Others
Extroversion(1-5): 4
Kindness(1-5): 5
Chattiness(1-5): 3
Trustfulness (1-5): 3
Sense of Humor (1-5): 3
Loyalty (1-5): 5
Selflessness (1-5): 5
Flirtatiousness(1-5): 1
Arrogance(1-5): 1

Handling Conflict and Decisions
Patience (1-5): 5
Temperance (1-5): 5
Forgiveness (1-5): 5
Courage (1-5): 5
Stubbornness (1-5): 3
Pacifism(1-5): 3
Impulsiveness (1-5): 1
Creativity (1-5): 5
Mercy (1-5): 5
Charisma(1-5): 3

---

Background

Place of Origin:

Current Occupation: Adventurer, Tomb Raider, Bounty Hunter, Monster Hunter

Living Family Members: Her mother, Madeline Barrow, is a “Passer” Changeling living in Karrnath. A Passer is a changeling that assumes a single mimicked identity for their entire lives. Miris never knew who her father was. Her mother would never tell her.

Companions on the Airship: Any takers

Why are you traveling to Khorvaire?: To start a new adventure, start a new life, uncover the mysteries of the Mournland, inflict violence, find a method of regulating the personas or splitting them some way.

Non-Combative Skills: With all of her personas, Miris has a number of skills. Making repairs to mechanical contraptions that can be done by hand tools, moving through and living in austere environments by making camp, foraging, tracking, and hunting. Being somewhat of a people person, depending on who she is. And there are some skills specific to her personas, such as etiquette from Eleanor, research knowledge from Nessa, and diplomacy from Darius.

History: “Hello… Hellooo… This thing better be working. Anyway, here's the start. I was born in Karrnath. And no, I am not a military brat… Well, I have my theories, but let's get to the good stuff. My mum was the type of Changeling that decided she'd rather live life pretending she was someone else. It worked for her. Madeline Barrow. It worked so well that when I popped out her puss with my marvelous porcelain white skin, she hid me away. She still raised me. I wasn't orphaned like some other sorry cases, but I was basically on house arrest until I could change into someone convincing enough to pass as a family member. Faking at the tender age of three… It wasn't so bad, though. We age a little faster at the start. And speaking of faster. Fast forward! I meet a lovely lass who's just like me, just showing off that lovely porcelain skin of hers with no shame or worry. Complete opposite of my mother. Struck up a long conversation with her, and little Miris was converted. Came back home from errands in full Changeling. Never go full Changeling. She kicked me out with a quickness.”

“I was homeless, but I found out that my people thrive when it comes to survival, especially when we take advantage of our birthright. You could consider this the big moment where I realized my mother and the shameless lass I simply cannot remember the name of were wrong… What is her name? It's going to drive me up the wall, but I'll just add it in post… Anyway, I started thieving like most of us wound up doing, but in time, I broadened my horizons and took advantage of the war. No more stealing necklaces and rings. I moved around, trading intelligence, sabotaging supply shipments, creating all sorts of nasty scandals, the works! I was raking in the big bucks, but then I started to have some issues. To make a long story short. I met some folks here and there, and they sorta… stuck with me.”

“Four fuckers, stuck to me. I would wake up days later as one of them. Why? Didn't fucking know. Still don’t fucking know. Another Changeling said I musta been touched in the head or something, which didn’t help me at all. Of course, I’m touched in the head! Fuck him… or her. Doesn't matter. Anyway, I could still change into other people but… only when I'm myself. The four fuckers would just take over my life, and yes I call the fucker but I… admired them for a time. I didn't open my legs for them, if that's what you're thinking. They just… left an impression, and I guess I can't shake it. At the time, I figured it would be best to leave Khovaire and start from scratch. Perhaps being away from them and the war would help… Nope. I picked up FOUR more fuckers. Three of them make me question my sanity. A psycho, a bitch, and… ah Skar is a badass, I can't fault her.”

“So I lived out some years trying to get them organized. Nessa and Wendel helped, thank the Traveler, but as much as they helped, I couldn't account for Vrexen and Skar making trouble. Those two were wanted, so that meant I was wanted too. With a little coaxing from Nessa and a little luck, I got my gorgeous porcelain ass on the first airship back to where it all began. And guess what, no more war, so that could only make traveling around easier. I couldn't make the same money as before, but stability offers up the chance for new clients… right?
Ah… Khovaire… And no, I'm not going to reunite with dead ol’ mum! Most of my crew… Yes, that's what I call them. We all have our reasons for getting on the airship. Some want adventure, others want escape, and I think six out of the eight don't want to be wanted and hung by a noose. Again, thank you, Vrexen and Skar. Just gotta make my way to Mournland, let loose, and the rest will fall into place… Fuckers willing I suppose… I mean, Crew willing... They won't hear of this or read about it, right? Right?”

---

Combat & Magic Potential

Class Concept / Role:
Fighter

Signature Abilities (3):
Battle-hardened
Pain Tolerance
Whirlwind Attack

Major Weaknesses (3):
Only Miris and the Skar, Vrexen, Minerva, and Malik personas can use the Signature Abilities listed above willingly. The others would have to roll and need some motivation from other characters. The non-combatants don't have access to the other Fighter Abilities.

Racial Trait(s) (If Applicable):
Only available to Miris. Can subtly shift their features, but beyond mere disguise, they can impersonate a specific stranger’s voice, mannerisms, or presence so convincingly that even acquaintances may be fooled.

Boons & Banes:

Boons:
Divided Mind - Each of Miris’ personas have a different field of expertise that don't bleed into the others.

Darius is good at getting on people's good side.

Eleanor shines with her etiquette and ability to mingle with the upper class.

Malik's situational awareness is sharper than most, even in less preferred to locations.

Skar takes little to no time in figuring out her way around a weapon.

Nessa is quite the history buff.

Vrexen has no qualms with killing someone. None. And he's a good people deterrent if you want to be left alone.

Minerva is best at reading a room. Does she care what people think? Fuck no! Knowing is good enough.

Wendel can eyeball a flaw like no other. I should have had him read over this CS.

Assimilated Talent - The personas leave minor impressions of their expertise on Miris, making her a well-rounded master of none between them

Bane:
For the Record - After changing, a persona may not agree with or have knowledge of the current state of affairs. Miris’ journal is very handy but it's not always the go-to for some of her personas. Some of them will even refuse to do something another has accepted or promised to do.

Combat Equipment and Gear: Bag of Holding, Lots of Clothes, Arming sword, Battle-axe, Mace, Daggers, Bow, Arrows, Shortsword, Leather Armor, Half-plate Armor, and Hide Armor, Toolkit, Camping Equipment, Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE, Magnifying glass, Diary, Sketchbook, Pencils, Dried and Cured Meats, Nuts, and a second Locked chest with self-care products.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: The Castle Dining Hall
Attire: Red Suit
Interaction: King Edin, Queen Alibeth
Mention: Wulfric

---

Alexander entered the dining hall, boldly adorned in red by his lonesome. He welcomed the wide-open space filled by the most succulent aroma with a smile and a nod before walking across the length of the room to his assigned seat. As he strode, Eri piped in, taking advantage of this moment by adding her own improvised tune.

A ribbon for a ring… A ribbon for a ring… The scorpion makes a promise that he won't ever sting… A ribbon for a ring… A ribbon for a ring… The deadly poison spreads deeply beneath the lady’s skin… There was light laughter from her before she continued.

Alexander, are you prepared to eat? Will you bring your wife back something sweet? Do you… enjoy my rhymes? I could do this all the time…

I’d rather you not. Just inform me of how Lianna is doing while I’m here. This banquet… is mine and mine alone. Alexander couldn't show just how elated he was with his chosen seat, so a warm smile would have to be enough. As he walked down the aisle made by the rows of tables, his eyes naturally locked straight ahead on the one and only Queen Alibeth Danrose. Compared to her, King Edin was far from interesting as he stuffed his face and lathered his lips with the rich food prepared for this evening’s meal. Swine. Right now, Alexander would find it quite humorous if the King were to choke to death here but unfortunately that would go against the interests of the Black Rose. Wulfric taking the throne too soon would be unfavorable and disadvantageous. Unfortunate…

As he arrived at his seat, he refrained from seating himself. Instead he took this opportunity to greet the King and Queen, seated so close to him. Since Edin’s mouth was occupied with food, Alexander took this opportunity to mostly address the queen.

“Queen Danrose, esteemed queen of Caesonia.” He performed a mock bow. “I’m afraid we have not had the pleasure of a formal introduction but I am sure nothing gets past those striking amber eyes of yours, your highness. I am honored and humbled to be so close to the divinity of the crown.” He took his seat but shifted his chair slightly in their direction, leaving the conversation open. “I can assume the food is delectable,” Alexander commented with an amused smirk, noting Edin who was shoveling away at his plate as if his life depended on it.

Young Justice

Kassy
&
Martian Manhunter

W A T C H T O W E R

---

^{September 20th, 2021 | JL Watchtower, Orbit}

The Watchtower wasn't abuzz as one might believe. Few heroes actually remained up here when there wasn't a global or galactic crisis occurring. The view and silence of space gave it a somewhat tranquil atmosphere despite elements of the natural world being scarce. It was a location that would serve well in escaping one's troubles. At the same time, it could also serve as a prison for one’s negative thoughts. Martian Manhunter aimed for Kassy to experience the former.

It had taken Kassy a while to shake off the physical ramifications of the journey to the Watchtower. With an Atlantean body born to withstand double the amount of pressure that a human could, going into an environment with no atmosphere at all was taxing. But the vertigo and nausea had subsided, which left her mind free and clear to spin into whirlpools.

Within a large soundproof training room, Kassy and Martian Manhunter stood facing each other. When the Martian wasn't smiling, his face was the representation of neutrality, even putting Viktor’s stoic expressions to shame.

“Kassandra, we have worked towards strengthening your mental defenses but is there anything specific you might be interested in training? I may not possess your abilities but I have had experience and time with many heroes of the League I can draw from.”

The young woman looked exhausted. "Well… I feel that I am…" Kassy looked off, clearly struggling to express herself. "I am not doing my share when it comes to combat. The elemental magics my staff provides are a distant second to what the rest of the team provides. It's good for a backup, but if I-" If she had been stronger, she could have protected KJ. She knew that thinking was not actually helpful, and so she didn't let the guilt pass her lips.

"If I wish to continue helping, I need to learn to manage my own magic better. I need stronger illusions." Martian Manhunter gave Kassy an affirmative nod.

“Illusions are an exemplary tool with many uses in and outside of combat. However, the user requires not only a great deal of finesse but the ability to maintain what they know is real against their elaborate design.” Martian Manhunter floated away from Kassy, giving her some distance. “Remember your reason for improving yourself Kassandra, and I know we'll be successful in enhancing your abilities. We'll start easy. I'll draw out surface memories of locations from your thoughts. You will then change the scenery of this training room to that setting. Are you prepared to begin, Kassandra?”

Kassy took a calming breath. She wasn't sure how this was going to go. As far as she knew, no one else had read her mind. Nothing for it but to dive in, though. She shut her eyes and tried to relax. "Yes, I am ready."

“Good. We will be going with something familiar to you. The lounge at Mount Justice where you and your friends spend many heartfelt and casual moments. You are the architect, so build the scene around us. One sense at a time, the order does not matter. Only focus on the final product of your illusion. Convince me that we are in the lounge on a typical day.” His voice was calm and steady as he held a moment from Kassy’s memory while also keeping his senses vulnerable to her manipulation.

"Okay." Sight was always the easiest. The lounge at Mount Justice seemed to melt into place around them. The familiar sofa and cushiony chairs. The Big TV with speakers and a rack of DVDs. Two finely dressed rich women mid-argument about something inane - and then Viktor, hiding a smile while he watched. Daphne next, underneath her sun lamp and reading a book. Zach on his phone, texting at rapid speed. Cora sitting with a machine kit and a screwdriver. Pei with a dye cap on her head. Will trying and failing not to look interested in the television. Vincent walking in with a massive bowl of perfectly done popcorn. And Kilamanjaro with a smile and a laugh, in sharp focus.

Everything seemed to waver for a moment. Kassy focused her breathing and braced herself. And then, like a bubble was popped, sound came rushing through. It was a lively moment, the sort of warm chaos that could easily follow a group full of teenagers. Quite suddenly, it smelled like popcorn, and soda, and hair dye, and sea salt and the air after rain, and it was warm, because despite their arguments, they were comfortable. Her friends, her family.

Her home.

"...I… am not sure how to manage taste."

“Though, I believe if I were to try the popcorn of your illusion, it would taste as it's intended to.” Martian Manhunter replied as he surveyed the illusion. He expected such a familiar setting to miss the finer details due to the typical complacency seen from other illusionists but he found himself very impressed by Kassy’s demonstration.

“Kassandra, if you can fool most of one's senses, the brain will often fill in the gaps. There are exceptions. Such as someone having prior knowledge of your abilities or someone very in tune with their senses. Kilamanjaro and Viktor would make for good practice. Regulating their sharp senses to the natural world makes them harder to fool. It's better to overwhelm the mind when faced with adversaries of this type,” He informed in his calm, steady tone.

“Now, let us delve deeper…” He put a single finger on his temple, searching for a more tumultuous scene from her memories.

Kassandra shifted with discomfort. She could feel a subtle sense of something wrong, like an itch she couldn't reach. Was this what it felt like when she used her magic on others?

“This one… When you and the team embarked to Atlantis, you encountered a giant squid deep in the ocean. Bring me there, but a version of it where the situation plays out better than it had.” This time Martian Manhunter was asking Kassy to conjure an illusion with a vast setting with an enormous creature. Instead of forming an illusion of events she was familiar with, she'd have to change what she knew of the situation. Kassy’s illusions were strong in their ability to imitate but could they alter what she remembered into something she knew in her heart was not true?

"...Yes, sir. I'll try." She truly did not want to return to the scene of her failure. So many things had gone wrong - had been wrong from the beginning. Despite her fear, she'd been so happy to let the others see where she'd come from.

“I know you can do this. Don’t hold back the illusion, Kassandra. It is merely the past and I am here with you.” Martian Manhunter’s voice coached faintly.

The cool, pressing depths of the ocean, wrapping around like a hug and shield all at once. Safe and familiar. At that depth, it was a deep blue - but it was bursting with life. Coral and kelp feeding brilliant colored fish. The deep vibration of whalesong, and all around an almost imperceptible hum of ocean current. It was peaceful and beautiful.

Then peace and beauty went ink-black in the same moment.

“Team, we have a situation. There’s a giant squid out here and we need to chase it off without harming it too much. Rain, Cybergirl - protect the doctor! Metamorph, Brightheart, and Nymph, on me! Zatara, now’s the time to see if that merman charm of yours works! Let’s go!”

To Kassy's eye, the squid was not a mindless, blood-thirsty thing. No, it was more akin to a giant bear cub than anything else. Dangerous, but juvenile. It would fight if provoked, but more likely would be scared off.

The team shifted into gear at her command. Former and current teammates worked quickly together. Nymph used the thick kelp to keep it from further hampering the sub, while Zatara conjured up a bigger squid. Mirage's magic gave it an illusory reality. It took another push from Brightheart's combined strength, but soon enough the creature was starting to back down.

Kassy's breath started to pick up as she pushed the line between what was real and what wasn't. This had not been how it went at all, but… how she wished it had.

"...hold, team. It's leaving." Mirage exhaled, voice shuddering with adrenaline. "Excellent work, everyone! Head on back to the ship, I will make sure we're clear." The team obeyed her orders quickly, and she watched them all go safely back into the sub. By now, the squid was retreating in full. Mirage saluted the creature as it left.

"My apologies for all the fuss, old one. I know you're not a -"

“MONSTER!” Bingley's voice howled, sending a slight ripple through the illusory world. Martian Manhunter chose not to intervene, believing the effect was just Kassy reaching the limit of her abilities.

Merely a stumble she can recover fro- Martian Manhunter was caught off guard by what occurred next.

Without consideration for Kassy’s proximity to the squid or the decisions she had made to ensure a peaceful resolution, twin torpedoes struck the creature. It occurred so quickly and with little warning. All that had preceded the attack was the brief sound of whirring through the deep. She heard the muffled sounds of torpedoes exploding on contact. She felt the force throw her backward violently. She saw the rush of bubbles mixed in with blood and body parts. She could smell the high concentration of blood that spread through the water. She tasted…

“Kassandra… Kassandra…”

“YOU ABOMINATION!” She remembered this taste.

_{“Focus on my voice… Kassandra!”} Why here? Was she hurt?

“You know what she is, what she’s capable of!”

No, she was-. She was far from being fine.

_{“Kassandra! Kassan-… where-…. taking us-…”} Martian Manhunter’s voice faded while Bingley's remained so powerful.

“Sociopath…”

She'd heard it too many times.

_{“Kas-……. foc-……. st-...”}

“Menace…”

Not even her childhood was safe.

“Dangerous beast…”

Just how long would it take to convince them otherwise.

Kassandra turned her head to spit a cloud of fresh blood. “But - I didn’t do anything, Auntie.” Her tooth had cut the inside of her lip, and she knew she’d have another swollen bruise to hide at school tomorrow.

“Be quiet.” Her aunt’s voice was sharp and cold, devoid of everything but disdain. “How dare you embarrass me in public.”

“I was just putting it back. I never sto-” She flinched reflexively as her aunt’s hand clenched. Why did she bother to speak in her own defense? Why waste the air?

Her guilt was already decided; all that was left was the punishment.

_“K-”

"Your useless excuse for a father married a monster and leaves me dealing with his siren spawn-" Kassy tried to block out her words. None of it was true. Her father would come back, someday.

"My beautiful son tangling tailfins with some whore, trying to go to the big city… What does Poseidonis have to offer that can't be found here?"

"Auntie, they love each other! And they want a new start as adults once they marry!"

"They can marry here, and stay here.” She cast a glance down with a sneer like she had found a snail in her food. "No one asked for your thoughts on the matter."

“Worthless…”

“You’re nothing…”

“Unwanted…”

“Lucky to even be considered fam-”

“FAMILY!” Martian Manhunter’s voice boomed over her aunt’s insults. Just his voice sent ripples through the memory, rumbling and shattering the memory and revealing something else. Something warm, familiar, and pleasant.

Kassy’s treasure.

Her home.

Her family.

Kassy found herself returned to the Mount Justice lounge. The familiar sofa and cushioned chairs. The Big TV with speakers and a rack of DVDs. Viktor was still hiding a smile while he watched TV. Daphne sat up with her precious smile from beneath her sun lamp. Zach was grinning at his phone after receiving a text back. Cora held up a newly constructed gizmo. Pei looked in a handheld mirror at her hair’s new shade of neon orange. Will submitted to simply enjoying watching the television. Vincent held a handful of popcorn, ready to stuff his face. And Kilamanjaro, still with a smile and a laugh, in sharp focus.

“Kassandra.” Kilamanjaro motioned her with his hand to join everyone.

“Don’t look so sad.”
“Don’t look so sad.”

“You’re home. You're safe.”
“You’re home. You're safe.”

I'm home. I'm safe. Kassy relaxed, reaching out for KJ's hand. But just before they touched, she stopped short. "...Kassandra…" The smile slid off her face.

"You never call me that."

It took truth to break an illusion. Even while submerged in it, there was now a sheen of unreality over it. Like a movie with false lighting. Close - but not quite real.

With her realization apparent, Kilamnajaro’s smile faded as his expression became stoic. He uncharacteristically stood square and upright.

"...sir, you can let me out. I… I'm okay."

“Of course, Kassandra.” Kilamanjaro’s body shifted into Martian Manhunter as the lounge melted away into the plain white room the two had started the training session in.

“I would like to apologize, Kassandra. I did not want to resort to such methods but I needed to pull you out,” He explained with a concerned look. “On a positive note, I believe I know where you need improvement… It's not an issue of skill. You're distracted by your pain and you seem to carry it with you like a weapon on your hip.”

"You did what needed to be done. It is… okay." Kassy was silent for several moments, wiping her tear-streaked face on her sleeves. Perhaps she should have felt angry, but… it was nice to see KJ's smile, even a false one. "I didn't do it on purpose. But I'm tired of being that way. Can you help me be better?"

“We will Kassandra. You and I will both help you be better. Let us have a brief intermission before another exercise.” The Martian smiled warmly. He was confident Kassy would continue to grow more powerful. She only needed to find her balance… or perhaps it was more fitting to call it, her anchor.

"That's a good idea… Thank you, sir."

Young Justice

Location: Justice League Watchtower
Interactions: Cyborg
Mentions:

---

VIK/CTORS

Cyborg and Viktor sat side by side conducting watch duty, which was mostly known as the most boring responsibility of the Justice League’s members. Sit in front of a super computer for hours while providing support to other heroes. It allowed for a way for the League to cover their bases across the globe. However, if there was little to no activity, the duty just made for a good icebreaker opportunity between you unfamiliar members or uncomfortable silence.

“This is incredible.” Viktor commented as he hovered over the control console.

“Every now and then someone appreciates it.” Cyborg commented as he stared at one of the monitors. He was often tagged for this duty considering he never needed sleep and him being here was like having two super computers working off of each other.

“They likely don't recognize the worth of this. Stormcaller would love this… she'd love the Watchtower.”

“She?” Cyborg gave Viktor a telling look who shook his head.

“No. She's just somewhat like the Mr. Terrific of our team. Was going to work with NASA before she received her abilities. Cora has plenty of knowledge and is always looking for ways to improve upon herself. For her, good is appropriate for today and better is appropriate for the next. She and I have this mindset in common. That is all.”

“Alright. Just checking, Vik. I can always give some advice on things that aren't so mission focused.”

“Like dating? It could ruin the dynamics of our team.”

“You sound like Grayson…”

“Well, he and I-”

“He folded. And guess what? Didn't change a thing when we had to save the day. Sure, maybe there were a few small hurdles but nothing big.” Cyborg shrugged before pointing at Viktor. “Vik, listen, when you're on a team like yours, stronger bonds don't make you weaker… I'm not sayin’ you gotta shack up with someone but don't be afraid of it… and don't overthink it.”

“But it requires some thought, no? Practicing favoritism is easily undertaken when you have a stronger relationship with someone versus the rest of the team. And that favoritism can lead to making poor operational decisions.”

“And recognizing that problem means you’ll keep that in mind, right? You're smart, sure, but you think too hard about the simple things, Vik. Enjoy the moment! Not everything's a mission. If you like someone, you like them. You told me Viktor and Rain aren't the same guy. One wears a visor with an almost decent HUD and the other looks at the world through his own two eyes.”

“Hmm.”

“And you're still overthinking it.” Cyborg shook his head.

“It's a habit.” Viktor shrugged.

“Sometimes a bad one. Especially, when you're not suited up… Listen, Vik, find a way to relax. I mean, really, relax. Make progress on that and I'll consider upgrading some of that equipment of yours. Deal?”

“Hmm…”

“Vik!” Cyborg caught him doing it again.

“Fine. Deal.” There was a brief moment of silence between them before Viktor shot Cyborg a look and spoke up. “Almost decent HUD?”