"Never could trust you, I still got your location on, fell out of love, I delete all the nudes out your phone. Can't get a reaction out of me, that's what you want."
26 days ago
You have to live every day as if you've dropped your pants and told the whole world to suck your dick.
If it was just Britney on the line, she would have gladly given herself up for the good of the group. After all, just like what Kenshiro, Sloane, and Clancy said, this was all her fault. The issue was that they wanted Lila, too. That was just not going to happen... she gave the Noble Vow a little flourish in her hand; if she got close enough, this should be enough to kill Emily and Vashti in one hit and end the threat of the 8th Street Coven for good.
”We’re not handing them over, Emily. Can’t we talk this out? Was there any need for all of this?”
Ooooh, Luca.
So painfully naive. There was no way this was going to end without blood. Britney let out a sigh.
”You should run.”
Luca spoke to her.
She didn't have the right to be spoken to, but he told her to run. Britney thought that the entire Coven should just cut and run. A fight like this was absolutely stupid. She couldn't find one valid reason that would benefit either side. Alas, Emily G. Reed didn't see the world the way they did (like a normal, rational, human being) and had to cause needless violence and bloodshed. It was clear that Emily wanted Lila more than anything, however, and maybe if both of them just fled out the back...
”... Look who it is, the pettiest fucking bitch in the city! You’re not taking anyone, so fuck back off to the hole you came from.”
Britney's facial expression crunched up as she saw fucking Linqian and Aryin just marching out of the house half-naked. She stared at them as they just walked up to Emily, and the color drained from Britney's face as she realized that, regardless of how this goes, they're going to have to fight. They activated some spell, and then they were fully butt-ass-naked as Britney saw the heat shimmering from their body and started boxing with 8th Street's heavy hitters. Okay, sure, a fight was obvious.
Britney gave Luca a look and said,
”... I'm not running, Luca.”
That was when Britney climbed off the porch and landed on the ground.
Connection to the earth established. Grounding with Gaia. Tapping into the essence of Edafosmancy...
The soil raised off the ground underneath her feet and formed a miniature hill, one that she used to glide across the ground into the fray. She could use her soil manipulation to counter attacks from even the likes of George. She focused on Vashti, however, who was duking it out with Linqian, and Linqian dived to wrap her arms around her waist. Britney figured that she would give her home-girl some help.
Channeling flow of life into Floramancy.
Several thick vines sprouted out of the ground and wrapped around Vashti's legs. They would then attempt to tie her legs together to limit her mobility.
In less than a minute, Linqian and Aryin ran out and started throwing hands while naked, and the house caught on fire. They wanted Lila and Britney... well, Drake didn't care if they took Britney, but he wasn't going to stand by and let Emily think that she could boss them around. If you gave someone like her an inch, she was just going to keep pushing and pushing, and pushing, just to see how far she can take it. Though, he was glad that they had the sense to stand up and fight - except, Tayla, who didn't want any part of it. That was fair, if she didn't want to fight then who was he to make her? And that's why Drake's here.
To fight for the people who can't fight.
"Take this, get in their faces and Emily can't burn you. Do it quick, before they can start throwing more magic out and make it less effective. Luca's going to get himself killed and I do not trust Linqian to take on that many people alone, I'll be right behind you."
Drake grinned and gave Stormy a fist pump to gain the Phantombane Aura. That was when he created his Thunderguard and his Thunderlance... and without a second thought, Drake charged in. He flew through the air, keeping close to the ground, at lightning speeds. However, he kept his eyes on the group... and saw that kid shoving Luca. He knew that the kid meant well, but Jesus! Didn't he know that one solid blow would be enough to kill Luca?!
Drake changed course, flying through the air, dispelling his lightning weapons, and caught Luca, wrapping his arms around him. He went with Luca's direction and motion so the sudden stop didn't hurt him. However, Luca's decaying touch was a bitch and rotted away at Drake's favorite leather jacket and the skin underneath it. He hissed in pain, as he said,
” You’re as pathetic as I remember. Was the thrashing you had the other day not enough? Is Emily fucking Reed a fan of getting her ass kicked? And the rest of you, y’all okay hate criming someone? Carol?”
George quickly scoured the environment, putting a flat hand on his eyebrows as he searched for something before he laughed and said.
"... Looking for someone who cares, dumbass!"
"Believe me," Aaron said as he took a puff out of his cigarette. "I'm here because I'm getting paid. Put money in my pocket and maybe I'll walk away. Maybe..."
"Long as somebody fixes me, I don't give a fuck!" Carol quickly snapped back as she dug into her rain jacket pocket and pulled out a glowing blue potion. She chugged it, before using her Time-Reversal Abstraction to fill it up again. She kept at it over and over again while Linqian and Aryin walked up.
Emily casually flicked her hand towards Aryin as if she was an annoying child, not even so much as looking at her, and turned her head towards the tree lines. They were better looking than these freaks. "... And last time I checked, George chucked you into the sky like Team Rocket." She quickly snapped back, putting a hand on her hip. "Shut the fuck up and just bring me Lila... and Britney." She said.
”Lets fucking go.”
Emily flicked her hair out of her face as she grinned. She looked at Aaron Sawyer, who nodded and tossed his cigarette away. He reached into the waistband of his jeans and pulled out a Glock 17. Emily turned back to Linqian and Aaron.
"Wow, you sluts are as stupid as I remember!" Emily chipperly said, raising a hand at the very Kari's house. The plan was going perfectly now that two members of Sycamore were separated from the rest. However, the plan requires the sluts to fall into a false sense of security... which means she goads Stormy to hop to their protection. "So, I guess you sluts are opting for a bloodbath, then!"
Emily snapped his fingers, and the second floor of Kari's house ignited in hellfire—a raging fire that threatened whoever was still inside.
Then she leveled a hand at the front of the house, and she grinned like a maniac. A massive fireball formed—one that got bigger and bigger and bigger—until it was larger than her entire body and the screaming faces of Babylon's victims could be heard begging for mercy. Then...
"... YOU SLUTS CAN ALL SHARE THE SAME GRAVE!"
Emily let out her vicious battlecry as the fireball flew for the house's front. As it flew, it took the shape of a skull and left a trail of fire that made it look like a shooting star! However, she quickly teleported behind the giant monster.
Meanwhile, George put his arm up and blocked Aryin's fist... and his skin sizzled as he loudly hissed in pain. "... Ffffffffffffuck!" He screamed, before he came around with a wide-arced kick, intending to send Aryin flying.
That was when Flora aimed the Aegis Piercer into the sky and let loose a barrage of arrows directly at Kenshiro.
@FernStone@NoriWasHere Weaknesses for Too Hot to Handle so you two virgins can leave me alone.
WEAKNESSES ⫻ (Fuck yo color gradient) By activating Too Hot to Handle, Linqian and Aryin's movement speed is slowed to a crawl, and they can only accomplish a leisurely walk. By glowing hot like magma, the two make themselves a very bright and noticeable target. The spell's super-heated state makes it highly vulnerable to cooling effects like water, ice, or cold/water magic - which can lower the heat and effectiveness of their durability. The Spell also doesn't differentiate between friend and foe, and can easily injure friends or disrupt their magic just as well as the enemies. Too Hot to Handle also poses a significant stamina drain, and can leave the two exhausted afterwards.
For fun, I wrote up Kari's relations.
Britney.Williams
"How could you do this to us?" _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 36:Britney. Williams. Even writing your name makes me angry. I trusted you - we all did. How could you? You were supposed to be our best. Our champion. If it wasn't for you, we wouldn't even know the Apparition Killer existed. But I guess your idea of protection was a lot different from everyone else's, but who knows what you were thinking. Forcing people to bond with Apparitions. Cursing them? You acted like you had the right to play God with people's lives. You ruined Luca's life, you know that, right?
The worst part was how you tried to justify it. It was all for the greater good, and we should all just accept that you had to make some "tough choices." But who gave you that right? Who? Who decided you could play with people's lives and then wash her hands of the whole thing? Yeah, that's right. No one did you bitch.
And the worst part? You still don't get it. You think making a few apologies, a few gestures, will fix everything. You ruined things for everyone, and you're the reason we couldn't trust each other. You ruined something beautiful, the only place I felt like I ever belonged.
So, Britney, if you ever read this (you never will): know that you can never undo what you've done. You can't just apologize and think it'll fix everything. I'm not sure you even realize the damage you've caused but let me stop here. I need a minute to calm myself myself.
Drake.Blackmore
"Father Wolf should have taken you instead of Jade." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 172:Drake Blackmore. You're an idiot. Nothing but an overgrown man-child- Do you even think, Drake? Is it all about showing off your magic? It's always been about you, is it?
You were the one who charged off without thinking, the one who couldn't be bothered to listen to anyone else's plan because you were too busy. You were some sort of superhero. But heroes don't get people killed. You do. You couldn't even save your own father. Saskia is dead because of you, Drake. Saskia's blood is on your hands, and you don't even seem to give a shit. You're too caught up in your own little world.
Fuck you, Drake Blackmore. You should've died- (The rest of the sentence is not legible)
Did you even think about her, about how much she mattered to Lisa, Ella, and me? No, you were too busy living in your own fantasies, playing knight in shining armor - that you will never be - without any regard for anyone else. Even after all of that, you have the audacity to run around like you're Batman, and hurt more people? Yeah, I know all about it. I'm all-knowing. All-seeing, remember? Or is your head that far up your ass! Kenshiro is wrong to think that you're anything more than an idiot.
Now, you're trying to avenge Jade, when you couldn't even save her in the first place! When I went to her funeral, I couldn't even look you in the face. Jade deserved better. You're not a hero, Drake. You're a danger to everyone around you. And the worst part? You won't even admit it. You're just a broken boy with magic and no sense. And I can't forgive you for taking Saskia away from me.
So yeah, Drake, and keep acting like everything is fine. Keep pretending you're some sort of savior. When it blows up in your face, don't act like nobody told you! And don't you dare forget that Saskia's death is on you. You might never understand what that means, but I can only hope it haunts you until the day you die.
Just to close this out one last time...
Fuck you Drake.
Alizée.Altieri
"I hope you win this battle, Alizée Altieri. I hope you get rid of that parasite before he leads you to your death." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 922:Hey Alizée, I get it. I know there's a higher chance of getting struck by lightning than you ever read this, but I, Kari A. Wilson, understand... You never asked for this. The Void Heart is scary. And what he was making you do was... scary. But, the Old Coven should've helped you, not demonized you. But instead, they just pushed you away and ignored your silent cries for help.
You hurt people. We can't get around that. But, you didn't have a choice. If the Void Heart wasn't in the picture, things would have been different. We could have given you one of the artifacts I found, and everyone would be okay. You should've been a hero, but instead, you became the problem, and none of that was right. That’s the thing; no one understands how hard it is for you. They just see the night-stalking, the dangerous stuff, but they never see your battle. You have to deal with that apparition every. Single. Day. Its whispers, its demands. It's always there tempting you like a devil on your shoulder, and you're supposed to just... ignore it?
If the Coven had helped you, things would have been different. Maybe you wouldn't have to act like everything was fine when it wasn't. I think they should've tried to understand and help you instead of making you feel like an outcast. But I guess that was just another failure of the Old Coven. It's not your fault that the apparition does what it does. Ashley demanded you leave and look what happened to them? The Coven fell apart, while you still had to deal with the Void Heart. They could've done more for you, should've done more for you.
Anyway, I just want you to know that someone understands. I get that you’re not the villain here. I hope you find a way to deal with it, a way to get back some control. It’s not too late to turn things around, you know?
Maybe one day, they’ll see that.
Love you, friend, even if you don't know it.
Linqian.Han
"I kept my distance from you for my own safety." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 387:Jinhai. What a guy. He always had this charm, you know? Tall. Hunky. And smart. It was just how he carried himself that made me like him. But there was more to him (There always is)? It always felt like he was playing a game, and he was the only one who knew how. He never put himself in danger, even when the rest of us were out there, risking our lives against the Snake. I guess I can't say much because I was the same way. I was never a fighter, my White Lux was useless out there, I was too valuable, or whatever lie I told myself. Soooooo... whenever someone came at his neck about that, I felt like I was getting too! Even though a lot of the Old Coven adored me for everything I did, and nobody in their right mind would ever criticize me. That's why I was there defending you.
Notice me.
But then there's your twin... Linqian. She's a whole different discussion. Everything about her was so jarring... and I just couldn't stand her hot and cold attitude, I'm sorry. One day she'd be all smiles, the next, she wouldn't even look at you. And she had this way of causing all these problems, you know? Like, she'd just start an argument out of nowhere, and it's all downhill from there! I just think she did it all for the attention. There was too much drama and too many fights, and I had enough on my plate without getting involved in... whatever was going on with her that particular day. I just couldn't deal with it, I'm sorry!
But Jinhai... yeah, it's a shame he left the Coven. If he had stayed, maybe things would've been different - but what's done is done. Even if he was a bit too self-serving for his own good, he just had this vibe about him...
... It made you feel like he could handle anything.
Luca.Oliviera
"Despite it all, I still love you, Luca." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 312:Luciano... Luca. You're one of the Old Coven's many mistakes on legs... no, let me rephrase that, I'm not trying to say that you're the mistake. But, I wish things had turned out differently for you. I remember when Britney brought you to the Sycamore Tree coven, looking like you had just had the worst day of your life! It was hard not to feel for you—you didn’t deserve to be stuck with that apparition...
I tried, you know? I spent hours scouring the All-Verse, looking for any clue, anything how to help you. It felt like I was looking for the Apparition Killer again! But, I never found anything that could get rid of that thing, but I didn't give up. I would never give up on a brief. You never did, either. I admired that about you. Even when it was bad, you kept that smile on your face and kept trying to see the positive side. It must have taken a lot of strength...
... But then you joined the fucking 8th Street Coven.
I get it. You just wanted to be rid of that damned Apparition, but Emily... she is evil, Luca. She's a cancer on everything she touches. She bullied Lisa, Saskia, and Ella, for fun, and I'll never forgive her for that (Especially now that they're gone. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.). She's a manipulative monster, and she will ruin lives just to get ahead even if it's a little, and you're not like that. You're too kind, too trusting. Maybe 8th Street seemed like your best shot, but you should have given me more time. All I needed was more time.
That's why I turned my back on you. Was I the wrong one? Probably. But, I miss you. I wish I could go back and find a way to fix all this. But, at the end of the day, you made your choices, and I made mine.
Take care, Luca. I hope you can keep that positivity, even when it seems hopeless. Don't ever let it get to you. Find something, anything, to make it all worth it. And remember, I did try. I really did.
I just wish it had been enough.
Sloane.Faris
"We had something good once, but you threw it all away because you couldn't be bothered to care about what other people went through." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 442:Sloane, I thought we were on the same page here.
We spent so much time working together in the Old Coven, at least as much as anyone can with you. I know you were serious about your work, and you were just trying to keep us all grounded. But did that really mean you had to be so stone-cold about everything? I always felt like you never understood people, or maybe you just didn't care. Your attitude was unbearable sometimes, I'm sorry. Did you ever think about how your words came across sometimes, or did you just feel like you were just more important than everyone else and, thus, disregarded other people entirely?
I can't tell you how many times you made things harder than they needed to be. Yes, your whole thing is maintaining order in the face of chaos, and we needed that during the war with the Snake more than anything - but that doesn't mean you had to be sooooooo harsh all the time. It's like you lived in your own world where everyone's just a piece on a chessboard, and if they didn't move the way you wanted them to; you threw them away. You demanded respect but never gave any back, not really. You were always rolling your eyes, sighing, or crossing your arms like everything was a burden to you.
And you wanted to be a leader. Really?
However, despite it all, I knew you weren't as bad as they made you out to be. There is good in you. They voted you out, and as much as I tried to fight it, I couldn't fight against the tide of the Old Coven. Despite that, you still wanted to protect St. Portwell. You wanted to take artifacts out of the hands of monsters, and other bastards that hurt people. I agreed with that. I helped you find these artifacts before they could be used to hurt people. It always felt like you were using me. You never called to ask how I was doing or if you wanted to hangout. No. It was just all business, but you were doing good. I thought that maybe, in time, you would lighten up and get some much-needed perspective.
But then Emily G. Reed started harassing me to join 8th Street, and when I asked you for advice, you suggested I just join them. Really, Sloane? Did you forget what Emily did to Lisa? She damn near drove Lisa to suicide, and not only did she show no remorse, she kept bullying her - and Saskia and Ella, too. Did you forget how I feel about those three? Or did you just not care? It felt like a slap in the face. You know how much I hate Emily, and yet you suggested I join them like it was nothing.
So yeah, fuck you. I had to do something drastic just to maintain my personal autonomy. You can be all about honor and duty and whatever, think you're the smartest person in the place, and delude yourself into thinking you're doing the right thing (You know who the fuck else thought they were doing the right thing? Lemme give you a hint: it starts with a B), but you don't get a free pass to treat people like trash. You need to learn some empathy.
Or you're just going to end up a lonely and miserable woman, surrounded by a bunch of artifacts.
Tayla.Choi
"At some point, I just couldn't watch it anymore." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 889:It's hard to write this, but I guess I need to. I remember when we used to hang out, back when we were fighting the Stygian Snake. You were always so full of life, even if you had that edge to you. It made you fun to be around, and I think you knew it. But then things changed after James died. That was a turning point for all of us, but for you, it was like the world just crumbled beneath you.
I watched you start slipping, bit by bit. I tried to keep an eye on you with my Observation spell, the Loving Eye - Okay, I know it was fucked up to spy on you like that, but I just wanted to make sure you were okay. It was my way of caring, even if I didn't know how to say it to your face. You were already slipping into darkness and I thought that maybe I could find a way to help you. But the more I watched, the worse it got.
The drugs were your escape. I get that. It was a way to numb the pain, to forget what you'd lost, I watched you fall deeper into that hole, and it scared me. But you didn't want help, or maybe you just didn't know how to ask for it. I just stood there, watching from a distance, hoping you'd get better. But you didn't. You just kept sinking, and I couldn't watch anymore.
I don't remember what was the last day I used The Loving Eye on you, but I know I did it. I had no choice. It was starting to hurt me and I already have my own demons.
I just hope that one day, you'll find your way back, not to the Coven because there's... nothing to come back to anymore, but to yourself. To the person you used to be before everything went sideways. Because that person is still in there, beneath all the pain and the scars. And I want to believe that one day, you'll see her again.
You deserve a second chance, and if that's not enough; a third and fourth.
"Edict".Devola
"You made your bed, and now you can lie in it." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 582:Greyson, do you even know what it's like to be in the background? Because that's what I was to you: just another face in the crowd, not worth your time to say so much as hello. We were in the Sycamore Tree Coven together, in this fight as one. It was all about you, wasn't it? You manipulated everyone to get what you wanted. You never cared about the rest of us, just about how you could stay on top. It was wrong for the Old Coven to use you as they did, but I couldn't help but feel like you deserved it, as fucked up as it sounded. Then, you started taking our channelers - items that were important to us - and held them hostage. I was against voting anyone out, but I made a special exception for you, Emily, Hagan, and Britney. Oh, I heard you and her were a thing after you got booted. I wonder how that worked out for you.
You know what's sad? Even after all that, some part of me still hoped you'd come back and at least try to make things right. But then I realized you probably don't even remember my name. I was just someone to be used and thrown when I was no longer helpful. I wanted to believe there was more to you than that, but I guess I was wrong. So go ahead, keep playing your games, and keep working on your deals. Don't ever come to me asking for a favor, because I know a rat like you eventually will. ]
Jack.Hawthorne
"Come home Jack. We need you." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 666:You know, I gave this page an edgy number... you know what, forget about it.
You always had that vibe that made everyone stop and think, "What's he up to this time?" You were the one who could pull off stunts that the rest of us couldn't even think of And it always made me worry. "What if you got yourself into something that even you couldn't get out of?" I always had that thought whenever I soooo much as looked at you. I know you probably would take that as an insult, but think about the people around you for a second.
From the day we met, you were doing things that most people wouldn't try—and I'm not sure if it was bravery or just recklessness. I mean, during the battle against the Stygian Snake, you followed that beast while we were trying to figure out what the hell we were going to do next. You lost your arm, and I remember thinking, "That's it, he's done." But you just made yourself another one, and I was like, "Cool." I admired how you just keep pushing, but it also made me wonder how much of you was still... you.
I know how you felt when you lost Reza. Believe me, I'm still dealing with it to this day. I understood why you left, but I was watching over you the whole time you explored the All-Verse. It was like I was right there next to you! It was fascinating, but also nerve-wracking... I never knew if you'd ever make it back.
Then you took off to the Void, and I lost track of you completely. The Observation spell doesn't work there. You were gone for what felt like forever, and I couldn't help but worry... I can only hope that you're still alive. So... Take care, Jack. I know you'll do the right thing, even if it's not what we expect.
And that's more than enough.
"Sully".McPherson
"Sometimes, Sully, the right thing to do is to say "no." To draw a line and stick to it." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 3736:Sully... You had this way of making everyone feel like they belonged, even the shy kids like me. I'll always remember how you encouraged me to speak up and be myself. I wouldn't have become who I am without you pulling me into the circle and showing me how to loosen up and have some fun. For that, I thank you. I remember you always had the "king's cup" with you, this big silver goblet that you swore could fix anything. You had something special with that Chalice.
You always had this gift for making people feel welcome, no matter where they came from or what they believed in. When I exposed Britney's secret, I thought you'd understand. I figured you'd be angry like the rest of us. But you weren't. You defended her, said she was trying to make things right, that she deserved another chance. You made excuses for her, Sully. I couldn't believe it. After everything she did, you were still willing to give her a free pass. I knew you always saw the good in people, but Britney wasn't just pushing boundaries—she was crossing lines that shouldn't be crossed. She was (and probably still is to this) dangerous. You said that she meant well, that she deserved another chance.
Meanwhile, The Rot is still adjoined to Luca... regardless of how I presently feel about him.
You always prattled on about second chances, but you do realize that not everyone deserves them, right? Right? Sometimes, the best thing you can do for someone is hold them accountable. Otherwise, they'll never learn... I... I just don't know who you are anymore. If you won't see the harm someone like Britney caused, then I'm happy to never speak to you again, Sully.
I still don't feel bad about trying to vote you out with her.
Leon.Richoux
"I used to look up to you, but my personal autonomy is the most important thing in the world to me. So, it is what it is..." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 284:I remember when Leon first joined the Coven. He was an entire giant—like, huge—and it was kind of scary. But, Leon Richoux, you made people feel safe just by being around, and people put incredible things on my name but even I couldn't do that. I really liked you then. I was scared for you when I heard that Lady Lelou was sealed into you.
When the Coven broke up, you started changing... or maybe you were always this way. You started talking about the Temple and how it could help people find direction (something, I, to this day, desperately need). I thought you were just being a friend, maybe just offering some advice. But then it felt like you were trying to recruit me. It was like you were trying to convince me that it was your way or the highway when its not.
You were pushing your mother's agenda on me. I know what she wants: she knows how powerful I am (It's like a curse!), and knows I'd elevate her plans to new levels. But I am no one's pawn - my autonomy and independence are the two most important things to me, and I will never let anyone take that from me. So, I had no choice but to cut you off for my own sake.
I hope you find what you're looking, Leon, but I cannot help you find it.]
Stormy.Carson
"You have my number, STormy, I know its hard but maybe we can pick the pieces up together." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 112:Stormy, you're one of the best. You stuck around until the end, even when others (including Daisy) cut and run. You could've left when the Coven began to fall apart, but you stayed, and I can't help but respect that. I know I can trust you because you've proven that when things get tough, you don't just vanish like so many others. I still remember how you gave Britney hell for what she did. You made it clear that she couldn't get away with what she did to Luca, and how she gave Emily new avenues to be a monster. That made me believe in you, Stormy. I can't put into words how much the Coven owes you for not just protecting us with your shields, but caring.
You weren't just muscle—you were a heart, and you used it well. You were always lifting others up and protecting them, even when you were having a rough time yourself. And that laugh of yours? It could make even the worst days better. I know you're carrying the burden of the people you couldn't save, but I want you to know that you're not to blame. It's people like me who were useless for doing anything other than watching their friends get cut down.
I hope you never change, Stormy. We needed more people like you.
Maybe things would have been different.
Anya.Baksh
"You're not smart as you think you are... I can see through you, Anya." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 492:Anya, you've always talked like you have it all figured out, but as I got to know you, I knew you were just playing an angle (They always are, I hate it when people only want me for my magic). You were never outright rude or anything— you just had this way of pretending to be friendly, and it always drove me up the fucking wall. I thought for the longest time, you were just being nice, but the more time I spent around you, the more I realized it was all a game to you. One big, fucked up game. I hated it, I hated you.
You only kept people around until they weren't useful to you anymore. You were always trying to get the upper hand because, just like Edict, you only cared about coming out on top. And the worst part? You'd make it seem like you were doing us all a favor. You never shared anything real about yourself. Everything was fake. Fake. Fake. Fake. You're fake. You never wanted anyone to see the real you.
And being around you was always a chore because I always had to second guess everything you did. Everything you said. Every gesture. I just had to be on guard around you at all times, and it was sooo exhausting. When it was time to vote you out, I abstained (like I always did), but they voted you out anyway, and you know what? I think we were better off without you. Yet I can't help but feel sorry for you. You put on this act like you have everything under control like you are one step ahead at all times. But deep down, you're just insecure, and that insecurity made you desperate to stay in control.
I hope you grew as a person. I hope you found something better to do with your life.
Evelynn.Serenelight
"You'll always have a place in my heart, even if we aren't currently together." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 628:Lynn, it's hard to write this you know. I wish we met under better circumstances, I really did. If it were different, we'd be together to this day. However, we found each other in the Old Coven during the darkest days... you were there for support when I lost all three of my best friends. You were the best. However, as time went on, those feelings for you weren't genuine, I was like some parasite using you for emotional support... only to ultimately toss you away. And I admit, that was my fault it's always my fault.
But I'm getting off track, Lynn. You have this lightness, even with all the weight you carry. It's hard to jot down, but that's what drew me to you. You were something else and I ruined it. Hold on, let me get back on track... We had a connection, Lynn—one that most people dream of finding. We shared the same fears and fought the same battles. Being with you made me feel whole, and it made everything else seem less important - even my grief.
But we both had so much trauma, so much baggage and I thought that being together would help us both heal. But it felt like we were just clinging to each other, trying to keep ourselves from drowning. And I had to let you go. I didn't want to, but I knew it was for the good of both of us. It's obvious that neither of us were ready for a relationship.
I miss you, Lynn. I know you’ve moved on, and I’m happy for you, but I wish it could've been different. I wish we could've healed together instead of falling apart. You'll never read this, but I want you to know that I'm sorry. I'm sorry I wasn't enough. I'm sorry I led you on. I'm sorry for all of it and I hope you find someone better than me.
Lila.Blackwood
"You're a whole new person now, Lila." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 372:You were Lynn's friend, but we never really connected. I remember you as that one person who was really shy... that just followed the first person who knew what they were doing we all did really. After the Snake, you changed everything about yourself... and it was finally free to be whoever you wanted to be. You were someone with big goals, you wanted to create a space for LGBTQ+ youth in St. Portwell. Because lord they need one.
It felt like you were trying to leave a mark. I know you were close to Lynn, and that mattered to me because she cared about you. But you never really opened up to me, though. Like you had something to hide, and that was fair given my Abstraction. But, you had this confidence... and I wondered if it was real or if you were just putting on a show. You were always around people, but it felt like you were keeping everyone at arm's length. It sounds oxymoronic until you're the one who has to witness it. Maybe that's why we never got to know each other.
Maybe that's why you and Lynn clicked, you both had things you didn't share with everyone else.
Jasper.Wilde
"Jasper, you've always been this strange thing to me... like a piece of art I didn't have the brain cells to understand." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 347:You always seemed like an interesting guy, Jasper. You had this creative energy that was barely contained in a person. Chains on your hips, button-up shirts, and that gold chain peeking out from under—it felt like orderly chaos. I think you were more comfortable with that chaos than most people would be.
I didn't know you as well as some of the others, but I never got why you always hounded Sloane. But forgetting about that, you always had this charm, even if you were battling your own demons. Lynn said you had this dream of living self-sufficiently, and it made sense. You always seemed to be doing your own thing, like you weren't a fan of the whole structure that the Coven had. You left early on, probably because of how... messy it got. That didn't surprise me.
Your art was impressive, though, and it wasn't just the magic that was cool; it was the way you talked about it. You had passion for what you did, and magic just expanded our horizons. I think that's why people liked you. You had this vibe that made people want to be around you, even if you didn't always want to be around themsomething we have in common.
I wish we had more time to get to know each other, but things got crazy. I can't blame you for leaving.
Adora.Phoenix-Prescott
"You're not alone in this, Adora, even if it feels like it, you're not. I know you don't want to hear that, but it's true. We're all trying to pick up the pieces of what happened, and maybe we can help each other. You know where to find me, and I am never going to turn my back on you. And I am with you, where ever you go. Just don't do anything you can't come back from." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 7:I bumped into Adora at the grocery store yesterday, and it was like seeing a ghost. She looked so distant, so lost in her own thoughts. I approached cautiously, not wanting to startle her. She was surprised to see me and almost smiled before retreating back into her shell. I remember how Lisa's death hit her hard. I mean, it hit all of us hard, but you were right there and saw it with your own eyes as Lisa was ripped apart. In a way, I was right there, too, but... you had this fire in you, and now it's gone. But now, there's a heaviness in her heart, a sadness and trauma that weighs her down. It's like she's lost a piece of herself that she'll never get back. I tried to engage her in conversation, but I was really just talking to a wall. She's so distant now, it's clear that she's still haunted by that day.
Despite it all, I can still see the old Adora in there, just little pieces of it that appear and disappear like a flash. She's still fighting, still trying to find (No, fight) her way back to the light. And maybe, with time and support, she'll get there. The Coven turned their back on her, but I won't.
My Notes Page 727:Okay, I have to dedicate two pages to Adora. Funny, ain't it? I just didn't think that last entry cut it, so I had to add more. But... You know I've always thought the world of you, Adora. Back in the Old Coven, you were one of the strongest. When you stepped into a fight, even our strongest members couldn't help but look on in awe. Even if we don't act like it anymore, we appreciate and love all you did for us, Adora. You saved so many lives, and for what? You had the power to just run and leave us to hang, but you didn't. There was this fire in you...
But now, it's like you're carrying around all the ashes from that fire. I can see it in your eyes, the way you get uncomfortable when I mention Lisa (I miss her too, believe me, I'll stop but it eats me up inside, too). I remember the day we lost her like it was yesterday (Because it was my fault). You watched as she got ripped apart, and you broke. And I don't blame you.
It breaks my heart to see you struggling just to get through the day. The way you used to inspire everyone around you to fight, that there was hope in a hopeless fight. And now you're just a shell of your former self. I know that's a bit harsh, but it's true. Even though there are some occasional glimpses of that person... you are not the Adora that fought in the Trinity anymore.
But I want you to know, I'm still here for you. I'm still your friend, and I'll always be. I'm glad you're letting me help, even if I feel like I don't know the right words to say to make you feel better. I don't know how long it'll take, but we will get through this. You don't have to do it alone. You're still strong, Adora. It might not feel like it, but even after everything, you haven't given up. And that's what makes you amazing.
So when you're ready to be that powerhouse again, I'll be right there cheering you on.
Layla.Hyacinthus
"You had this habit of fading into the background like you were trying to disappear. Made me wonder who you were hiding from." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 1112:You were always so quiet and kept to yourself. It was like you didn't want anyone to know you were even there. Honestly, that made me suspicious at first, but as time went on I figured you were just intimidated or just wanted to stay out of the Coven's many dramas. I was too busy trying to keep the peace to look into you much. There was always something going on that needed my attention more than you . I know that sounds shitty, but it is what it is. I think most of the Coven didn't even realize you were there.
Now that I look back, I wish I’d taken the time to talk to you, maybe ask about those roses you carried around. But I didn't, and now I guess I’ll never know what was really going on with you. You always had this look in your eyes, like you'd seen things we couldn't believe. I think that’s why I stayed back.
I had enough on my plate.
Luna.Inoue
"If you have even a shred of decency left; stay away from me. I have enough problems as it is." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 23:I can't believe you'd do this to us. We trusted you, and you sold us out. You were always kind of shady, by my admission but I gave you the benefit of the doubt. After everything we've been through... the battles, the chaos, the loss... and you sell us out to your stupid mafia? And for what? Money? Your little boss patting you on the head and saying you did a good job? What could possibly be worth betraying us? People who put their lives on the line to save you.
What the hell were you even thinking? Did you even stop to consider what your actions would do to the rest of us? I'm valuable, Luna. I know that. You know that. Everyone knows that. My Observation Spell is a gift - and now it seems like a curse, because now I'm looking over my shoulder every minute. I'm wondering if the next face I see is going to shove me into a car so your boss can force me to work for her. Or just take me out so she can keep her business in the dark. You know what that's like? To be constantly on edge? I bet you don't. Because you only thought about yourself, and your stupid little mafia.
But let me stop here: good luck with your new family, Luna! Mafias aren't known for their loyalty by the way, but in that case, you'd fit right in.
Right, Luna?
Aislin.Rose
"You made everything feel a little less heavy." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 25:It's been years, but you know why we're still close, right? You were always such a cool person, with your smile and art, you made everything alright. I can't even count the number of nights we spent just talking, laughing, and trying to make sense of the chaos.
Your positivity and creativity kept me sane when things got bad. I never told you that and I'll never have the courage to, but it did. I don't know how you do it. Despite everything we've been through, you still find beauty in the world when I sometimes have a hard time myself. Your graffiti and drawings all have this energy that I wish I could replicate. You remind me that there's still good in the world, even when all hell is breaking. I know you don't like to talk about the past, but I want you to know that it's okay to feel the way you do. What happened with the Stygian Snake, and all the deaths that came with it— I get it. You don't have to carry that burden alone. I've got your back, and I always will.
You forgave Alizée, even though I wouldn't have blamed you if you didn't. I remember when we first met in the Coven. You were always drawing on something, even when we were supposed to be planning, training, whatever. I'd find you scribbling on napkins, walls, and even the floor of our old lair. It drove some people crazy! I always thought it was great. You brought color and life to the place, and we needed it.
So let's make a pact. No matter what happens, we stick together. We create our own light, just like you do with your art. And if you ever need me, you know where to find me.
I'm not going anywhere.
Say the word and I'll come.
Kenshiro.Murakin
"I love you." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 551:You know you're everything I could ask for, right? I don't say it enough, but it's true. I mean, you're just... you're like the perfect blend of everything I adore. Mysterious yet familiar, strong but gentle. And you make the world a better place with just a smile. I love how you can be all serious and focused one moment, then switch to playful and teasing the next. It's like being with you is always an adventure, and I can't get enough of it. Okay, I could go on forever, but I won't. Just know that you're my favorite person in the world, and I can't wait to see you again.
I know you left on your big adventure through the All-Verse and wanted me to join, but my place in the world isn't exploring the universe but finding my place in the world. That hasn't stopped me from watching over you with my Loving Eye—it's like I'm there, by the way! Maybe once I am in a better headspace, I'll join you. I wish I could show you my notes, but the life you live would make you a liability. I'm a liability too, but I won't stop.
I know dangerous things, Ken. Things that should stay hidden from everyone, even from you. My observation spell lets me see places I shouldn't, but it's a part of me now, guiding me toward the truth in ways that can sometimes be frightening. But don’t worry, I have a plan to keep you safe.
To keep everyone safe.
Ayrin/Aaron.Thorne
"Take care, Aaron. Or Aryin. Whichever feels right. I hope you find the peace you're looking for." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 517:Hey Aaron, or should I say Aryin? I always get confused with which name to use when I talk about you in my notes. You always wanted to keep people guessing? I didn't get to know you all that well when we were with the Coven, but I remember seeing you on the front lines. It was impressive, really you saved lives. I was a bystander. You had this way of adapting to whatever the situation called for. I admired that about you.
I always wondered what it was like for you to live with two personalities. Was it exhausting? Or did it give you an edge? And then there was the whole thing with Emily... It takes a lot of strength to keep doing what you do and I never got the chance to really ask you how you were holding up.
I hope you're doing okay now that the Coven's not around. I heard you've been hanging out at the 317, getting involved with some of the folks there. That's good. You need a place to belong, even if it's not with the Coven. It must be nice to have some kind of community.
I might not have been the closest to you back then, but I get the whole "trying to find your place in the world" thing.
Amara.King
"You might not remember me, but I'll always remember you." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 448:Remember that time we were in the Old Coven's lair? You were putting the final touches on some battle plan, and I just feeding you information while reading a book. That was a weird dynamic, looking back. I mean, you were this... unstoppable force, always charging into battle without hesitation. I was just... watching you do your thing. You made it look sooooooooooooo easy.
I remember the way you’d walk into a room and take control. People respected you. Even when they disagreed with your plans, they listened. You had this aura of authority that was hard to ignore. You were intimidating, I can't lie about that. Even the way you talked was enough to make me nervous. But then I'd remember those moments when you let your guard down. When you’d sit back and just talk about life, about the things you missed out on because of all the fighting. I think that's when I realized that you were a person... a good person. You always took the time to ask me if I was okay, even if it was just a quick "Hey, you good?" It meant a lot, especially when everything around us was falling apart.
I don't know if you'll even remember me in a few years because of how the Army of One works (don't get mad but I tested some of my Intuitive Perception spells on you), and that's okay. I guess I'm just grateful for the time we spent working together. You made me feel like I was part of something like I wasn't just some background character in someone else's story. I'll always remember you as one of the bravest people I've ever met.
Take care, Amara. I have no clue where life took you after the Coven fell apart, but I hope you're happy.]
The.Void.Heart
"I can't wait for the day when you're just a distant memory." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 923:I don't even know why I'm bothering to write this, I'm only going to make myself mad and I wrote enough angry entries down into my journal. But, I can't believe what you did to Alizée. You turned her into your puppet, you sucked the soul right out of her. You know, she could have been something else, someone else, if it weren't for you. Alizée could have lived her life, made her own choices, and found herself. But you stole that from her and that is the true tragedy. You made her your pawn in some twisted game, pushing her to do your bidding, to hurt people.
You saw her as a tool to help you satisfy whatever sick obsession you have with opening some "gate of paradise." Let me tell you something—there's no paradise where you're headed. Just an eternity sealed in some pen cap. You call yourself the Void Heart, but I think you're just void. Empty. Hollow. Nothing but a parasite that feeds off the pain and suffering of others. You're not welcome here, Void. You never were. The sooner you're gone, the bette- I have to stop myself here. I'm just making myself mad.
So, here's my final message to you, Void: Leave. Go back to your Void—or wherever you came from—and don't come back.
My Notes Page 1: I don’t—I don’t even know. I can’t—I can’t believe you're gone. It’s not real. It can’t be real. Why did this happen? How? How did this happen? It’s not fair, Lisa. It’s not fair. This wasn't supposed to happen to you. Not to someone who had so much life to life. It’s all wrong. All of it. I can’t—I can’t even think. I don’t understand. Why did this happen?
I can still hear you laughing, talking about your spiders, and it’s not real. It’s not. You’re not there anymore. You’re gone, and I can’t do anything. I should’ve—I should’ve done something. I should’ve been there, but I can only fucking watch. All I'm good for is finding things! I should’ve saved you, and now you’re not here. It’s my fault. It’s my fault, and I—I’m so sorry. I’m sorry, Lisa.
I can’t—I can’t stop thinking about what happened. You shouldn’t have had to go through that. It’s not right. You didn’t deserve it. You deserved—oh God, you deserved so much better, and now... now you’re just gone. And I can’t fix it. And I FUCKING hate it. I just want to hear you one more time, okay? Just one more time, hear you talk about whatever spider or weird ass thing you got into. I want you back soooooooo badly. It’s not fair. You were the best, Lisa. You made everything better, and now everything is just... empty. You should be here.
I’m so sorry, Lisa. I’m so sorry. Believe me, I'm so sorry. I should’ve done more. I should’ve—I should’ve-I should’ve—oh God, why didn’t I do more? I should’ve done something. It’s my fault. And now... now you’re gone, and I don’t know what to do. I’ll never forget you, Lisa. I promise. I promise I’ll never forget you. I’ll keep fighting because that’s what you’d want. You’d want me to keep going, but it’s so FUCKING hard without you. I just want you back. I want you here, and it’s never going to happen. And I don’t know how to deal with that. I don’t.
Why am I such a fucking failure?
Goodbye, Lisa. I... I’ll see you again, okay? When it’s my turn. I’ll see you then. Just... just wait for me, okay? I’ll be there. I’ll find you. I promise. Just—just wait for me. Just wait. I’ll see you again. I will. I promise. I... I just miss you, okay? I miss you so much. Goodbye, Lisa. Goodbye. I just—I just can’t. Goodbye. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I just... I just can’t. Goodbye. Goodbye, Lisa. I’m sorry. So sorry. I miss you. I miss you. So much. Goodbye. I’m so, so sorry.
Ella.Brooks
"... I can't drive my head..." _______________________________________________
My Notes Page 2:Ella... Ella... You were supposed to be here, with all your energy, and you’re just gone. You shouldn't be gone, you didn't deserve it. It's not fair, it's not fair, it's not fair... I can't stop thinking about your smile, and your laugh, and the way you made everything seem like it was gonna be okay. You had that magic, you know? I'm not talking about your abstraction but you could light up a room just by walking in, and I just... I just want you back. I need you back. You were the best of us, Ella. You were the best of us.
I'm sorry. I'm so sorry I couldn't save you. I should have been there, I should have done something, I should have stopped it. Why didn’t I stop it? WWhy didn’t I see it coming? You shouldn’t have been alone, not like that. It’s my fault, it’s my fault, it’s my fault. I should have done more and you would still be here with me. You know what I miss the most about you? Your voice. You always had something to say, always talking about anime and manga, and you always made it sound so amazing.
I miss you, Ella. I miss you so much. I miss your hugs, your stupid jokes, your ridiculous transformations, your smile, everything about you. I just want you back. I'm sorry, Ella. I'm sorry I let you down. I'm sorry I couldn't save you. I just want you back.
Please come back. Please. Please. I'm begging you. Just... just come back. Please. I miss you. I miss you so much. I miss you. I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry. I should have saved you. I should have been there. I should have stopped it. I’m sorry. I miss you. I miss you so much. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I’m sorry. I'm so sorry. I miss you. So much. So much. I'm so sorry. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you. Goodbye. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I'm so, so sorry. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. I’m sorry. So, so sorry. I miss you. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. I'm sorry. So sorry. I’m sorry. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. I miss you. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. I miss you. Goodbye. I'm sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you so much. Goodbye. Goodbye. I'm sorry. I’m sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you. I’m so sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I miss you. I'm sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. I’m sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you. I’m sorry. Goodbye. I’m sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye. I’m sorry. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I'm sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I'm sorry. Goodbye. I miss you. Goodbye. I’m sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. I'm sorry. Goodbye. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye, Ella. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. I’m sorry. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. I miss you. I miss you. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye. Goodbye...
Saskia.Otten
"... It's so hard wanting you." _______________________________________________
Everywhere I go I keep seeing her face. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I should have been there. I should have done something. I couldn't—why didn't I do more? I keep saying I can only watch, but I have the power to write this down, I could have done something. I should've—I should've stopped her from going. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. It's like a loop in my head, and I can't stop it. It keeps going round and round. I'm sorry. I keep saying it, over and over, because what else can I say? She's gone. And I can't—I can't fix it. I can't make it right. I can't—I can't do anything, and I'm just stuck with it, stuck with this.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
I can't stop saying it. It won't—why won't it go away? I just want it to go away. I'm sorry. It's my fault. I should've been there. I should've stopped her. But I didn't. And now she's gone, and I'm here, and it doesn't make sense. None of it makes sense. Why did she have to be the one? Why not someone else? There were so many people that deserved what happened to you... Why not me?
I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
It never ends. It just keeps going and going. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I can't—I can't fix it. And I don't know what to do. I don't know how to fix this. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I keep saying it because it's the only thing that feels right. It's the only thing that makes sense. But it's not enough. It won't bring her back. It won't change anything. And I'm sorry.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
Remember that she is definitely dead. Totally dead.
Britney couldn't help but roll her eyes at the overly dramatic display Sloane made on her way out. While Britney knew that Sloane wasn't wrong, the action seemed like something some teenager would do. Everyone here was an adult (well, physically, mentally was a whole 'nother discussion). Thus, she turned towards Anya and said,
”... I'm starting to think she likes the attention.” She didn't say it softly; she didn't lower her volume at all. She spoke because she couldn't care about that control freak's little feelings or reputation here - Britney was still trying to figure out why she even came here in the first place.
Everyone was starting to clear out from the basement. Britney glanced at Adora, and she was still pulling it together. In a few minutes, Britney would help her up because they couldn't be hanging around in here. The Feds are more than likely watching them as they speak, and Britney doubted Stormy talked them into backing off (it's more likely Stormy was trying to get with the boss ladies than anything). That just left Kenshiro and Clancy.
... And boy, was the latter interesting.
"I'm sorry about your friend. It's shitty. But-.. only Kari would've known how to unlock this thing, right? And you- You said the one who died wasn't your Kari. I'm not saying it's her. Your other friend - Lionel? At the graveyard, I heard him call Father Wolf a 'he.' Yes, I was there when she told you where to go, too, but I don't care about that right now. So far, everyone who's been killed by this asshole has been part of your old group. Unless you still have enemies that aren't dead or gone, that makes it possible that it could be someone who was one of you. Or that someone of you is caught up in this too. Is that Kari? I don't know. But she's part of this now, and if she isn't dead it's obvious she's hiding or being hidden."
”... I don't know why you were acting like I was there,” Britney put a hand on her hip and shrugged. ”If I was there, we would have summoned everyone.” It was stupid for them just to pull the spirits of just three people - especially with the inconsistency with Kari. Alas, not everyone can see more than what is before them.
However, Britney's face contorted as she thought about it. Some things weren't adding up, such as patterns Britney was starting to pick up on. The "kid" was mature and sensible for someone who looked to be about ten. What was extra suspicious was how he survived getting shot and just gave a weak-ass "I got better." Is he really a kid? Is he even human? He could just be some Apparition piloting a kid, which is all types of fucked up. The next thing that caught her eye was the kid practically admitting that they were spying on them.
The final nail in the coffin was what he closed with.
"I don't know what you did to people to make them something they're not, but I know what it's like to be on the other side of that." Cold condemnation sat in his gaze. "If you had done that to me, you'd be dead already. But I'm not her. I don't know what's going through their heads."
”Is that a thr-” Britney cut herself off... Chill, Britney. You have to be the reasonable one here. Britney attempted to affirm herself and calm herself down because the last thing this situation needed were more people flying off the handle. Especially against a kid, even though Britney knew if he turned out to be a kid, she would eat her shoe. So, she kept her mouth shut and observed. Nothing good would come from jumping the gun.
However, when Adora felt the need to go off the kid, Britney didn't need to hold her back.
"Oh, my friend... She's a Pactmaker! And the whole reason Emily G. Reed is a bitter, wretched fucking cunt today? It is because of you, Britney Williams. Because if it wasn't for you and your dirty deeds? She'd be a stain on the pavement of St. Portwell. And we'd all be better off for it... Including my fucking Kari! Now what is my fucking life, Britney!? Empty! I have you people! You! And you know what the worst part is? I never would've known were it not for Kari telling me... The only other woman I thought I'd ever be able to open up to truly is gone!"
Britney was silent.
Not a single muscle on her face so much as twitched.
The most stoic expression she ever had as Kenshiro ranted and raved at her... It hurt seeing someone that she thought so highly of come at her neck.
”... You trying to lowkey - but not lowkey - put the blame on whatever you think happened to Kari, on me, Kenshiro?” Britney said in a completely monotone tone as she stared at him. Britney was done playing nice and keeping her mouth shut now that Kenshiro had come at her first. She narrowed her eyes at him as she just came out and said it;
”Because you do realize that, considering her abstraction and the pattern in the murders, she is more than likely to be Father Wolf, right? Right?”
There it was: the ugly truth in all of its glory. She was putting a target on her back (and it was not the best thing to say to someone who was grieving and emotional), but someone had to say it. Before things could progress further, they were pulled into a Recollection...Britney returned to reality and sighed.
She wondered why Emily would rear her head now of all times. It was ten years without personally dealing with her, and it turned out that Emily was making all of these moves. And it was all her fault. Britney shook her head, as it was becoming dead straightforward that the Coven would Covento deal with Emily sooner rather than later... and it was only fair for Britney to be the one to put an end to Emily's reign of terror.
However, everyone began warning that 8th Street was about to attack, and Britney couldn't help but-
*BOOM*
A massive crash exploded outside, and Britney's eyes shot open as she quickly ran up the stairs. Instead of rushing outside, she glanced through the window to see 8th Street.
Thankfully, nobody bothered Adora while she was nearly ready to fall apart like Kenshiro. She knew that nobody cared. Thus, it was up to her to bring herself back to reality... though it was a pathetic sight for the mighty leader of the Old Coven's powerhouse Trinity, reduced to being curled up in the corner of Kari's basement.
It was not like she had a choice in the matter these days. Her heart fluttered, as she didn't even feel human at this very second.
"Okay... you can do this Adora,..." Adora quietly said to herself between breaths as what everyone was saying was just overwhelming her. She had to focus here, so she affirmed herself. "You're brave, you're loved... You can't fall apart now; you managed to work up the courage to come here. You. Can. Not. Fall. Apart. Now."
With those final words, Adora gathered the strength to push herself to her feet. That wasn't enough because she was still twenty. However, she could stand on two feet as she tried to return to reality. Her pride and ego were too enormous to ask for help, and she tried to focus on the conversation, which faded back into her mind's eye.
"I'm sorry about your friend. It's shitty. But-.. only Kari would've known how to unlock this thing, right? And you- You said the one who died wasn't your Kari. I'm not saying it's her. Your other friend - Lionel? At the graveyard, I heard him call Father Wolf a 'he.' Yes, I was there when she told you where to go, too, but I don't care about that right now. So far, everyone who's been killed by this asshole has been part of your old group. Unless you still have enemies that aren't dead or gone, that makes it possible that it could be someone who was one of you. Or that someone of you is caught up in this too. Is that Kari? I don't know. But she's part of this now, and if she isn't dead it's obvious she's hiding or being hidden."
”... Huh?” Adora raised an eyebrow as she listened to the kid. Typically, Adora wasn't too good with kids—being a woman who does not want any—but a few things in the kid's speech stuck out to her.
"...Yes, I was there when she told you where to go-"
One big thing.
”... Wait, what the fuck do you mean you were there?!” Adora seethed, one hand on her chest, the other on the wall. As she took deep breaths, it was probably evident that she was trying to hide that she was coming down from a full-on anxiety attack, but, again, she was just too arrogant to let anyone here think she was showing weakness. As she looked at the kid, something clicked in her head, and she got mad... It was enough to distract her from her trauma for just a moment. ”... I think I saw you at the grocery store the other day, too! Have you been following me?”
She took a few deep breaths and couldn't hold it in any longer. Before, she continued.
”Kid... that is not fucking cute at all!” Adora said, ”That is sick. You're fucking sick. Stay the fuck away from me.”
Was it wrong to say this to a kid? Probably. But, kid or not, Adora was not in the right frame of mind to be reasonable right now, and she was going to put her foot down. Or up this kid's ass.
However, she was pulled into the Recollection...”What the... fuck...”
Adora hissed as she read the Recollection. As it turned out, Kari (or somebody) attempted to burn the notes that Kenshiro was so obsessed with. What was worse was that Emily was here with her goons... she couldn't recognize a soul there other than Vashti and Greta, but she knew Emily. She was Lisa's bully, and Adora held an irrational hatred towards her. Not only did she harass Kari, but she also looted her house after she died... for some unknown third party. Adora had no clue what was in the notes, but it must be important if Kenshiro and Emily were so obsessed with them - but that raised more questions. Just who could know about the notes? Just who would be willing to pay scumbags like Emily-
However, her line of thought was interrupted.
”... Lynn is almost certain we are about to be attacked by the 8th Street Coven. Be prepared, in case she is right.”
”... JESUS!” Adora's heart damn near jumped out of her chest as she fell to the ground. Jack had appeared out of the goddamn blue and gave this message that went over Adora's head because she was too busy getting her tits scared off - in addition to her other feelings clawing their way back into the fray. Adora grabbed her chest and looked up at Jack, ”... Don't fucking-”
She began before realizing that Jack was already gone—crazy bastard.
Adora shook her head, dusting herself off. She knew bits and pieces about 8th Street, but she also knew that she was not equipped—magically or mentally—for a fight right now. However, like the crazy kid said, Emily might know something about what's happening.
*BOOM*
That crash signaled that it was time to fight.
The 8th Street Coven.
Interactions: The Entire Coven.
In front of Kari's House.
A massive swirling portal opened above Kari's front yard, and seconds later, something fell through it. It hit the ground with a reverberating boom that created a massive dust cloud that obscured its body, leaving its frightening silhouette peeking through the dust and debris for a few moments. However, once it faded, its horrifying appearance was on full display for everyone present. It was a gigantic, towering monstrosity taller than Kari's house. It dripped with a green-brown liquid as its smell was overpowering. It just stood there...
"... Hi, sluts,"
Emily peaked her head out from its legs with a broad smile and gave everyone looking on a sarcastic wave. That was when she stepped from behind it, and following behind her were George and Vashti, and they formed a line in front of the monster. She glanced over her shoulder and saw Aaron, Flora, and Carol (Who was wearing a hockey mask and had a wooden bat with nails withCAROL'S GIRL crudely drawn on the side), and Maya hiding behind its legs just as planned. All of them were wearing various-colored rain jackets and pouches strapped to their hips, and Emily glanced further behind her and saw a circular ice wall condoning off a section of the yard near the treeline. Then, a transparent dome appeared, and Emily grinned.
A drizzle began sprinkling the area. She pointed to Maya, raised her hand, and said, "Volumne up."
And as instructed, Maya raised the volume of Emily's voice so all of these sluts could hear her. She took a few steps forward, but before she could begin her speech...
"... Yo," Aaron caught her attention, taking some final desperate puffs of his cigarette before Vashti's storm made that impossible. He then pointed at the treeline where Drake Blackmore, Sully McPhearson, and Stormy Carson were - and two other sluts she didn't recognize, but long as they stayed over there, they could die for all Emily cared. Then he pointed at the sky, where Ken was... and Emily grinned. There was one person on Emily's mind, and one person only. They had to buy time first, so she finally began her speech as George stood by her side with his arms crossed and a cocky grin on his face.
"... It's been a while, hasn't it, sluts!?" Emily shouted, her voice loud enough to be heard all over the property. "Missed the reunion... Well, I wasn't invited! Well, I wouldn't have come either way - that unfair treatment I received at the Halloween Festival told me I made the right choice, anyway!"
She looked around, grinning like a fool. As she threw the hood up, the rain fell on her hair. "So, I'm going to be quick and to the point; we're not here to fight you sluts. I'm here for one person, and one person only, Lila Blackwood..."
"... AND FUCKING BRITNEY! I'M GOING TO RIP HER FUCKING INTESTINES OUT, FEED 'IM TO CYNTHIA, FIX HER, JUST TO DO IT AGAIN AND AGAIN!"
Carol screamed, stepping from behind the undead monster's leg. Emily just rolled her eyes.
"... And Britney," Emily began, putting a hand on her hip. "So, just hand those two over, and we'll leave you sluts to rob a dead retard's house - do you sluts have any shame or dignity at all?"
After she spoke, she glanced over her shoulder at Aaron... he was their best chance at reacting to any sneak attack these sluts might pull. However, she hoped the other group was doing their job without one of 8th St's leadership around to babysit them... keeping Phoebe and Maya separate was an excellent way to do that.
Emily grinned.
"... Chooooooooooose wisely. Because my patience might run out very fast."
She knew they weren't going to.
And that's where the fun began.
In Kari's Yard by the Treeline...
A considerable distance away, another portal opened, and the first person to step through was Phoebe Carmicheal, holding an empty potion bottle - at the bottom remained some remnants of a glowing blue liquid. When she stepped through, her abstraction was boosted, and she raised her hands and, using her Blizzard-Inferno Spell, erected a massive of ice in an area around them... it was thick enough to stop all but the most powerful abstractions, and if one of them tried shooting through it? They might as well have been throwing pebbles at a tank!
She stepped to the side as the other members of the 8th Street Coven stepped through, starting with Greta Faust, who walked in holding a crate full of glowing potions. Trailing behind her were several of Nadine's minions, also carrying crates full of glowing potions. Then Brianna Wallace, Cynthia, Malik Jakane, and Lee Evans followed through, followed by Nadine, who held a book underneath her shoulder, an oversized rain jacket... and sunglasses. Behind her were two undead minions that weren't carrying supplies but a folding beach chair and a tent. These undead minions erected the tent and unfolded the beach chair. Nadine laid down on it and opened her book... as the Baron materialized beside her.
The last one through was Amy Nakamura, who had the Oni Club strapped to her back and wore a bright yellow rain jacket. He had his hands in her pockets as the portal closed. Brianna raised both hands, and a pillar of light appeared and touched the sky. Out of this beam, a transparent, spinning dome appeared around their makeshift encampment, leaving some space between themselves and Phoebe's ice walls, which was none other than the Teleportation Nulification Veil... one that would ultimately prevent all attempts of teleportation and portal creation.
Lee and Amy stuck close to Brianna, while Malik and Phoebe stuck close to Nadine.
Greta placed the crate down, and Nadine's undead minions pulled out the glowing red potions—Greta's explosive potions—within them and raised them into the air. They walked over to the edge of the teleportation nullification veil, closer to the ice wall, and stood there with the functional hand grenades ready. Greta flipped the crate over, sat on top of it, and pulled out her cell phone—only to notice Cynthia standing over her.
"The Pack Leader told Cynthia to protect Pack Member Greta," she said, getting close. Cynthia will protect Pack Member Greta with life. Eat anyone who gets close to Cynthia and Pack Member Greta."
"Thank you, Cynthia," Greta said. As the rain drizzled over her phone screen, she couldn't help but shake her head. She glanced up at Nadine and Baron. The latter was creating hordes of undead monsters that crowded their section of the makeshift fortress. There had to be dozens already... and Greta glanced over her shoulder and shook her head.
"... She drags us out here for a petty revenge scheme," Greta shook her head. "Don't we have bigger fish to fry right now?"
"Yeah, I know!" Phoebe rolled her eyes, "We could be bullying those Serpent Cult nerds again!"
"Cynthia obeys the pack leader," She said, "Cynthia has no complaints."
"Let's just hope they hand over the bird bitch, so that we can go home," Phoebe smiled. "Speaking of bitch, my bitch is out there!"
"Keep your eyes open," Greta rolled her eyes and wiped her screen. "Someone is bound to try something."
The Recollection faded, and the mere sight of it made Drake wince his head.
Drake had no clue about Kari's notes or what anyone was trying to show him, but he knew that Emily G. Reed had something to do with all of this. He wouldn't be surprised if she were working with Father Wolf or something - that'd be in character for that bitch. Drake shook his head as he focused on what was important: getting Luna the fuck out of here, and he was losing his patience here.
”Listen, I’m not actually angry with you. Sorry if it sounded like it- We can talk about that later, but for now… You saw that too, right?”
”Yeah, I saw that too,” Drake confirmed that he did see it, but ignored the rest of Stormy's theories, because he was hyper-focused on Luna, ”Let's talk about it after we get rid of this spy.”
“How could I face you? You remember how I left. How could I face that again? So, I did what came easy to me. I watched from a distance. I documented the triumphs and tribulations, pretending I was there with you. I watched my family, my home, become rebuilt, and I thought… Maybe it was better this way. It was… easier this way. I realize now it was wrong. It was the wrong way to deal with how I was feeling and unfair to you. Especially given the current… situation. …I'm sorry. Maybe we got off on the wrong foot. I know why you’re against me. Why you’re against… this. You’ve been burned before, badly, so you’re expecting only bad can come from someone like…”
Drake almost projectile vomited.
This bitch can't be serious! Drake thought to himself as he could only smile at how foolish she was.
“You have every right not to trust me. Heck, I wouldn’t even trust myself. If you want me to leave, I will. But I want it to be put up to a vote.”
Drake immediately created a Voltblade. He kept one eye on Stormy and the other on Sully as he raised it at Luna. ”Nope, I'm good! We're good! You're playing an angle, and we're only going to get burned in the end,” Drake began his speech. ”I don't give a damn what Sully, Stormy, or the rest of the Coven thinks, you got ten seconds to get your ass out of here before I turn you into-”
*BOOM*
Drake was interrupted by a giant monster falling from the fucking sky! He immediately whipped his head around towards it, and was about to jump into action... until he saw Emily G. Reed, and her goons - most notably Vashti. While he was drunk off his ass, Drake remembered some of the things that she said about Jade... and it took every ounce of restraint he had not to lung over there and decapitate her. Drake also eyed the fortress that was suddenly erected... the Voltblade disappeared out of Drake's hand, and he narrowed his eyes as he looked at Luna.
”You wanna really back up your big words?” He grinned. ”Go get rid of Emily and her goons for us.”
I decided to adjust Adora's stats a bit with the Trinity Rings.
ONE RING ⫻ Adora's current level. With just one Trinity Ring, Adora receives a slight boost to her physical capabilities. She can lift about 200 pounds with ease, enough to move heavier furniture or carry someone over her shoulder. In terms of durability, she can take a punch or two from a grown man before going down, and it takes more force to cause her harm with a knife or other sharp objects. Her speed increases slightly, allowing her to run a bit faster than usual, but nothing that anyone (not even herself) will be able to notice. The most paranormal aspect of having one ring is her ability to fly, which is quite slow, and anyone can outwalk it at a leisurely pace.
TWO RINGS ⫻ With two rings, Adora's physical capabilities increase dramatically. Her strength allows her to lift around 1000 pounds overhead, and her durability allows her to tank a few strikes from trained fighters and shrug off blunt force trauma far more easily. Adora's sprinting speed reaches about 20 miles per hour, and her flight becomes useful, allowing her to fly at about the same speed she can sprint.
THREE RINGS ⫻ When Adora wears all three Trinity Rings, she gains significantly enhanced abilities, but not to the point of invincibility. Her strength allows her to lift about 2000 pounds overhead, meaning she can move smaller vehicles with some strained effort. Her durability allows her to tank blows from trained fighters like it's nothing, but she's not impervious to damage. Adora's sprinting speed increases to around 30 miles per hour, and her flight speed reaches a maximum of 60 miles per hour.
Now, after adding the locations, I figured I'd rewrite the description of St. Portwell because I wasn't happy with it. Thus, I provided a full on description that should better describe the layout and vibe of the city + Along with adding a whole new section for locations unrelated to the factions.
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"St. Portwell: Where Ocean Meets Adventure..."
. Set along the Oregon coast, St. Portwell is a city almost literally built on its enchanting nautical wonder and heritage. Everyone who walks into the city is welcomed into a world that is both charming and mysterious, a world of hidden wonders... and dangers.
Its layout is a picturesque mixture of its traditional nautical roots (which it wears like a sleeve) and big city. Its streets seem to trace the shapes of the coast designed to create a sense of adventure, and almost every corner echoes with the sound of waves and the cry of seagulls. The city was built on its connection to the ocean, paying homage to its humble beginnings as just a small fishing town that, over time, became a major city on the West Coast that everybody knows about.
The street is a mixture of narrow alleys and broad avenues, designed to accommodate both foot traffic and the occasional parade of maritime processions. Clusters of buildings, both historic and modern, line St. Portwell, with canals and waterways threading through the city providing both transportation and exquisite backdrops. Consistent with the city's nautical motif, buildings often incorporate elements like anchors, ship wheels, and lighthouses into their design.
The city's downtown area (along the shore) is designed to be a hub of activity. Street vendors line the sidewalks, and bustling markets, outdoor cafes, and shops cater to both locals and tourists. While the constant flow of traffic and people creates an atmosphere like no other it's balanced by parks that were carefully integrated into the city's layout.
St. Portwell's layout also incorporates a sophisticated network of piers and docks, which are essential for the city's commerce and transportation sectors. Ships from distant lands dock at these ports, bringing goods and visitors to the city. The piers are also home to seafood restaurants and markets.
The city evolved to accommodate its growing population and the demands of a metropolis, and its evolving identity is marked by corporate offices, luxury apartments, and upscale hotels. Construction has ramped up to build new homes for people wanting a piece of St. Portwell's nautical wonder. New districts have emerged with buildings and infrastructure that complement the cityscape's existing vibe.
"I wish you were here on the shore / That we could build up something new..."
St. Portwell is a city renowned for its diversity, where people from all over come together to create a community like no other. The city's population includes a mixture of families that have been in the city for generations, transients, and other visitors who came to St. Portwell for one reason or another. The ethnic and cultural diversity is evident in the city's restaurants, markets, and neighborhoods, each bringing a unique flavor to the urban environment. St. Portwell's entertainment scene is as diverse as its population, with theaters, concert halls, and sports arenas drawing those from all walks of life. The commercial districts of St. Portwell are just as diverse, with shopping malls, boutiques, and open-air markets dotting the streets. The layout of these areas encourages exploration, with narrow alleyways and open plazas inviting people to browse and discover new treasures that they will cherish for the rest of their lives.
The northern part of St. Portwell is known for its picturesque landscapes everything north of St. Portwell is nothing but woods. The neighborhoods in this area are characterized by tree-lined streets and spacious parks. In contrast to the calm of the northern district, the northeast part of St. Portwell is known for its high crime rate and rough neighborhoods. This area is largely controlled by the Wolfpack, a notorious biker gang involved in drug and sex trafficking and protection rackets. The streets here are lined with rundown buildings and lack that distinct nautical vibe the rest of St. Portwell has. After certain hours, expect the streets of the Northeastern parts of St. Portwell to be empty.
The western part of St. Portwell is the city's primary tourist attraction area, being the location of the city's famous shore. This area features a boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and during the summer months, tourists fill the streets. Ferries depart from here to nearby islands such as the city's famous Cracker Island. The west district is also home to the Coastal Harbor Mall, a major shopping destination. Not too far from the West District is Downtown St. Portwell, the city's commercial and cultural hub. The streets are lined with historic buildings that have been repurposed for modern businesses. Downtown is known for its diverse culinary scene, with restaurants offering tastes from all over the world. Downtown is also the center of the city's entertainment scene, with theaters, galleries, and music venues hosting events on a regular basis. The waterfront promenade runs through downtown, providing a scenic background for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The southern part of St. Portwell is primarily a residential area and features a blend of older homes and newer developments, which creates a juxtaposition of architectural styles. It is home to several schools and community centers, which make it a popular choice for people moving in. Unlike the downtown areas, it features smaller-scale markets and stores. The southeast part of St. Portwell is an industrial zone, with large warehouses and manufacturing plants, thus far less populated than other parts of the city. It plays a critical role in the city's economy, however. The eastern part of St. Portwell is primarily residential but is far less populated than the Southern-area. The eastern district has several green spaces and parks, making it ideal for outdoor activities and family outings. Transportation is a key aspect of St. Portwell and it boasts a comprehensive network of roads, canals, and public transit. Ferries navigate the canals and provide a unique mode of transportation if one wants to take the scenic route over the traditional roadways. This network connects all districts, ensuring easy access to business centers, residential areas, and entertainment venues.
However, beneath St. Portwell's picturesque facade (arguably, existing alongside it) lies a chaotic supernatural scene, a whole new world where magical organizations fight for supremacy. This supernatural labyrinth features covens, cults, and criminal syndicates, each with its own reasoning behind its actions. It is a dangerous and unpredictable place where the city's fate hangs in the balance, dictated by these powerful organizations. Worst of all, a storm like no other is brewing, threatening to swallow just the city, but possibly the entire All-Verse.
Paranormal Organizations
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THE.PRA
"The Sword and Shield to protect the masses."
. . . .
The Paranormal Response Authority (PRA) is a covert government agency that is tasked with overseeing and regulating the activities of Paranormal beings. Heavily armed, the PRA has several Paranormal beings within their ranks as it is the best way to combat hostile Paranormal beings. At a minimum, the PRA comprises One-Eye-Open and undergoes training to fight the Extra-Normal. Usually, the PRA plucks out soldiers and other Law Enforcement Officials, but they are overall comically understaffed and undertrained.
The PRA has no choice but to take whoever comes their way that is at least somewhat qualified. The PRA technically is a branch of the Department of Homeland Security, and they are underground operations - which means everything they do must go under the notice of the general public. In most of the PRA's field operations, they disguise themselves as different law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI or local law enforcement. They appear, complete the mission, and vanish without a trace.
They are responsible for covering up magical incidents and scrubbing the internet for paranormal activity. They have a massive database of suspected and Paranormal-Beings but largely leave them in peace as long as they aren't terrorizing the general public. The PRA answers to the Director, and the Director responds to the Pentagon. The current Director is Director Alcott, a mysterious person whom only a few PRA Agents have seen in person. The PRA is one of the major players in the battle for St. Portwell, and its goal is to return St. Portwell to normal and eliminate hostile organizations such as the Wolfpack.
The PRA is heavily armed, but Agents use the Colt Federal Patrol Carbine in field operations and have a pistol as the side arm. The usual uniform of Agents is a fancy suit and tie (girls get to wear skirts!). During field operations, Agents wear a chainmail armor that is stab-proof, shock-absorbent, and thermal resistant. Agents use taser rounds and tear gas to subdue targets but will use live rounds and even explosives if necessary. The PRA can also use a special radar to track paranormal activity nearby.
The Agent in charge of the St. Portwell office is a woman named Meifeng Liao... and is interested in the Stygian Snake.
DOLLHOUSE
"Step into the Dollhouse..."
. . . . An oddity in St. Portwell, as they are known as a magic organization on the East Coast but moved over to the West Coast last year. As a front, Dollhouse is a sort of mafia group that offers potions and magic abilities to other criminal organizations for a price. However, the Dollhouse organization is a cult that seeks to build an army of Abscised for a strange and mysterious end.
They have been kidnapping tourists, people on the fringes of society, etc., and placing Apparitions in their bodies. Their operation moved to St. Portwell (likely to escape the PRA). It operated mainly in the shadows, keeping themselves hidden - but sold potions, artifacts, and Apparitions and kidnapped people to abscise them. Dollhouse prefers to remain a completely neutral force in the conflicts of St. Portwell and would rather not directly antagonize the other factions. However, they are incredibly cunning and conniving and have manipulated the different factions from the sidelines into service or into destroying the organizations they cannot control.
The leader of Dollhouse is known as Luis Cox, a boogeyman on the streets of Miami, and his second in command is Natalie Parts and the mysterious Heinrich Thòrmer.
THE.ELITE
"Magic is the gateway to infinite wealth and riches!"
. . . . One day, a man named Blake Schmidt discovered that magic was real... and sought to gain magical abilities. After going to different occult organizations, he didn't get what he desired. Eventually, he formed his own organization known as the Elite—a collective of fellow rich pissants seeking ultimate power through magic... or something.
They're a powerful organization spanning the entire West Coast, and could rule the magic scene in St. Portwell and cities such as LA, Seattle, etc. If it weren't for the constant infighting, questionable leadership, and zero clear idea of what the point of their organization is, they would. Thus, they're only at a fraction of their true potential but still possess several magical artifacts and dangerous minions.
The Elite comprises several different wealthy families, with the Schmidt Family at the organization's head - heading Paragon United Tech Solutions. Other prominent families include the Valos Family, who own various hotels, casinos, and clubs all over the West Coast; the Liu Family, who run the illustrious Liu Pharmaceutical, and the Pimm Family, who are old money and own businesses all over St. Portwell and Seattle.
The Elite primarily clash with the Greenwood Coven and they are allied with the Dollhouse organization.
GREENWOOD.COVEN
"Guardians of a greener world!"
. . . . After the defeat of the Stygian Snake and the new rise of organizations, one was the Greenwood Coven. Unlike many of these organizations which rise and fell, the Greenwood Coven stood the test of time - being an organization that has felled several of them, most famously Das Sonnenrad. They are one of the most mysterious groups by design, as Greenwood members conceal their identities with disguises and use codenames to protect their identities from the other factions.
They claim to be the protectors of nature, but at the end of the day, the Greenwood Coven is a group of magical hippies - they are relaxed love nature and get high all the time. You can call the Greenwood Coveneco-terrorists, vigilantes, and various other things, but at the end of the day, they are simply a group of friends having adventures. They get high, hang out, and spend time together as friends do when not in costume.
However, one should not take them lightly as, despite their relatively small size and demeanor, they are a dangerous and influential faction that has severely damaged other factions, such as the Elite and the defunct Das Sonnenrad. They specialize in quick, hit-and-run attacks and other sabotage. They are not the up-front fighters like the rest of the St. Portwell factions, and they appear, do damage, and then vanish.
The Greenwood Coven picks their battles very carefully and is one of the few peaceful organizations in the St. Portwell power struggle. However, they are the arch nemesis of the 8th Street Coven, who have been their longtime enemy, and they are also enemies with the Elite, Wolfpack, and any remnants of Das Sonnenrad are kil on sight.
The Greenwood Coven is famous across St. Portwell for waging war against the Das Sonnenrad cult and being the one to kill Kaiser Draeger. Greenwood went to war with Das Sonnenrad after the latter killed two members of the Greenwood Coven and stole their artifacts.
The Greenwood Coven's goal is to find the artifacts that Das Sonnenrad stole.
8TH.STREET.COVEN
"Weaving magic, carving destiny!"
. . . . The terror of St. Portwell, the 8th St Coven is led by the infamous member of the Old Coven known as Emily G. Reed, with another former member Vashti Nour operating as her second in command. Emily's two little sisters Miranda and Jacqueline Reed, serve as her third-in-command, and together they operate the terror of St. Portwell's magical scene: The 8th St Coven.
The 8th St. Coven is named after the location where they formed their pact, much like the Sycamore Tree Coven. There hasn't been a single organization that hasn't butted heads with them. Initially, the 8th Street Coven was formed to learn more about magic and see what boons they could get, but they gradually changed their idealogy. Their current goal is to gain magical supremacy in St. Portwell by metaphorically breaking the knees of other organizations to steal Artifacts.
The 8th Street Coven is infamous in St. Portwell's magical scene for stealing different artifacts and bullying weaker factions or those who can't stand up for themselves. The 8th Street Coven gathers different artifacts under the instruction of Emily G. Reed, and they either keep the useful ones for later or sell them to the highest bidder. The 8th Street Coven is functionally a mobile magical arms dealer that has stolen artifacts from all over to sell to whoever - whether they be warlord, monster, or terrorist is irrelevant.
Most of the brutality of 8th Street comes from the leadership of Emily and Vashti, who eliminate anyone who gets in their way with brutal efficiency. However, 8th Street is comprised of individuals who are either too apathetic to care about how savage their leadership is, or by broken people that Emily G. Reed has conned into joining in hopes of fixing their issues.
The primary enemy of the 8th Street Coven is their longtime rival, The Greenwood Coven, and the two organizations have faced battles that have destroyed several sections of the city. To Emily, it's one big game of chess against Greenwood.
However, the 8th Street Coven gets some appreciation for destroying Das Sonnenrad and forcing them out of St. Portwell alongside the Greenwood Coven.
THE.SERPENT.CULT
"Embrace the darkness that awaits in our hearts."
. . . . An upstart organization that has recently formed but has roots back to the Stygian Snake's rampage. Essentially, a boy named Caden Zorich was adjoined with one of the leftover Apparitions created by the Stygian Snake. He saw Recollections of the demonic Apparition that terrorized St. Portwell when he was too young to understand anything.
In awe, he believed that the Stygian Snake was a God and began to worship it. Forming a totally-not-a-cult following of similar broken teenagers, he came under the belief that the situation in St. Portwell was so bad was the Sycamore Tree Coven's actions.
Their goal in St. Portwell is to find the Stygian Snake and free their deity. They're a cult comprised of teenagers who were gifted Abstractions by Caden and are primarily uninvolved with the factional drama of St. Portwell. However, they will inevitably clash with the Sycamore Tree Coven.
THE.WOLFPACK.MC
"Unleash the shadows, rule the night."
. . . . A biker gang that deals drugs runs protection rackets and is a nuisance to society, led by a man named Judas Bennet. The Wolfpack was nothing more than just a collective of small-time crooks and would never even be on the notice of law enforcement.
However, they gained possession of several different abstractions due to unknown means. With these apparitions, they gained a large swath of turf and influence in the criminal underworld of St. Portwell.
They have used their Apparitions in gang fights, theft, running protection rackets on the St. Portwell businesses, and prostitution rings. The Wolfpack doesn't typically clash with the other Paranormal organizations. Still, they managed to earn the ire of the Greenwood Coven recently, and the two organizations have been fighting ever since. The PRA is also onto them.
After Judas' death, it was revealed that The Wolfpack was working for Dollhouse and gained abstractions from them to act as their muscle. Dean Walker is now the new leader of the Wolfpack.
THE.TEMPLE
"The dawn of New Eden, the end of Faulty Night."@AtomicEmperor
. . . . The Temple of Charming and Graceful Individuals.
Originally a cult movement spawned in the French Motherland by the name of L'église de la Nouvelle Lumière, this organization's roots are hundreds of years old and span back to the bloodline of Charlemagne. The principal proprietors and stewards of the movement have been the regal Richoux clan, who migrated alongside a trove of relics and artifacts before the worst of the Nazi occupation of France claimed their secrets. Along with many old-world covens facing similar strain, they made purchases along the eastern coast of America, with the Church settling in a small neighborhood in Brooklyn. At the time, they were a primarily austere union of Adepts who specialized in their own Lux, unionized to create a "perfect" catalog of spells from which a Grand University could be built. They believed the knowledge alone would be enough to rouse all Blind who beheld it, and this effect would be harnessed to usher in a new enlightened age of magic.
Some years passed, and as the cult became more Americanized, with second-generation children forgetting the ways of the Old Country, things became looser and less constrained. Older members passed along, some refusing the rejuvenating magic that would've staved off death. Canassa Deuxma, the Church's expert in White Lux, became fascinated with the onset of the Eastern Spiritual movement famous of her times. Under an Eclipse, she predicted the coming of a messiah, a deity upon the Earth who would lead the Church to the final lands upon which their school would be built. The promised lands.
Her affair with the Church's High Guard, Ivan Richoux, became a union that heralded the next generation of leadership for the Church, with their eldest son Maxwell, taking up the family's duties of protecting the remaining honor and effort expended toward their cause. He would grow to marry a woman, Lynette, a White Lux Adept who spoke to the family of dreams and premonitions she'd had all her life. Convinced that she was the one who would be their Messiah, Canassa convinces her Son to marry and solidify the union to unlock Lynette's true potential.
Before things could be turned over properly, however, a scandal broke out among the Church's highest order as both Canassa and Ivan were found dead of a Curse. Lynette and Maxwell fled, making footfall in St. Portwell. To this day, Lynette remains the leader of this schism branch of L'église de la Nouvelle Lumière and worked closely with her husband until his disappearance almost fifteen years ago. While unable to claim all of the knowledge that existed in the original organization, the two successfully took Lynette's dreams and shaped a new pathway upon which they could direct many Adepts.
Now named the Temple of Charming and Graceful Individuals, or The Temple, its compound is in a well-forested city. It's home to fifty full-time residents with a small private road. Outside of the "Ashram," another hundred and fifty or so members live in the surrounding areas of Oregon and consist of many local public and private faces. These names could be said at anyone's dinner table.
THE.317
"This place is off limits, take your petty bullshit somewhere else." @NoriWasHere
. . . . 317 Rich Street
The 317 is a loosely organized faction in St. Portwell based out of an old industrial complex just off the main street. The group started on Main Street in a small storefront but quickly expanded due to popular demand and a sudden influx of artists from around the area, and from around the country as a whole. They have gotten their name from their street address, 317 Rich Street. Faith and Octavia, the two founders, bought the property together after a sudden influx of money that has been rumored to be due to Faith’s abstraction. Ever since they bought it seven years ago it has been brought up to modern code, however, the heart of the complex has remained without change as it was vital to Faith to keep it’s unique industrial aesthetic and atmospheric feel. There are two wings to the building and they are connected in the middle by a large-open air community space. Food trucks dot the ends of it, allowing all who come to experience the delicious food of the local community. Underneath the building is a large basement where the 317 operates in full. They offer various services to the paranormal, and their most profitable is the cursed object business run by Faith.
They are a group that has a strong backing of paranormal artists and is one of the larger such groups in America. While not every artist has an art-based abstraction, every artist at least has an abstraction. They keep their paranormal dealings separate and out of the public eye during their open hours. The group does have a strict no-conflict policy on their premises and in the surrounding areas. They do not want to be drawn into any war with the various factions that call St. Portwell home. Any members caught supporting any other faction will be expelled with prejudice. Keeping the artist here safe, and employed, is more important to the leaders of the Cooperative than any amount of power that could be garnered from outside groups.
As they have grown, so too has their control over the area around the 317. While they are not a fighting force, they are led by three women with powerful abstractions that can often turn the tide if a rival group tries to poach their talent or push them from their space. Faith Ringgold, Sypha Fuchs, and Octavia Wilde are the primary powers in the Cooperative, and they ensure that the artists here always have a peaceful place to create and sell their art. As things have started to get explosive in town once more, the 317 has begun to close ranks and keep a careful eye on every situation as it develops. The benefit of being a community hub is they often get information about the whereabouts and dealings of the various other groups, which will allow them to be ready if any group comes knocking. They are currently in possession of a few works of art that have apparitions sealed within. Their power, and their names, remain a mystery to all but Faith and Octavia.
THE.HOUSE.OF.CARDS
"We were glorious once, we'll be glorious again." @Estylwen
.. . . .
The House of Cards is a mafia organization that changed leadership after their Hearts Club Casino burned down in what news reports claimed to be an ‘accidental fire’. After their first mafia boss succumbed to burn injuries, leadership of the mafia changed to Phantasia. The House of Cards, upon the recent opening of the new Hearts Club Casino, focuses on connecting the criminal underbelly of St. Portwell. Not just the layman crime bosses, no. They have a preference in working with the seedy magical side of St. Portwell's night scene.
They don't get along with everyone, but have a wish to make the magical scene thrive for the folks who really deserve it - the ones with magic. Of course, the House of Cards doesn't turn away layman help - they need thralls, after all.
Specializing in small heists, and supplementing their income with the money gambled away in the casino, the House of Cards guarantees their partners a chance in the limelight and pockets laden with cash. They also guarantee to be a thorn in the side to anyone who dares tries to intercept them or their goals.
DAS.SONNENRAD
"The new world order emerges."
. . . . Defunct.
Translated to the Sun Wheel, Das Sonnenrad was a Neo-Nazi cult that, for some time, ruled St. Portwell's magical scene from the shadows. The cult was created by Nathanial Thorn (under the alias of Kaiser Draeger) by twisting the Aryan mythology to fit their agenda, that they were the only ones "worthy" of magic - and certain groups merely stole the gift that was rightfully theirs. Nathanial built Das Sonnenrad by recruiting impressionable, disenfranchised, and vulnerable individuals with promises of power and revenge as long as they remained loyal. At night, they wandered the streets of St. Portwell and attacked minorities (Paranormal or not), and they killed dozens (injured many more) before their eventual defeat.
Kaiser Draeger gave his most loyal and genuine followers Abstractions and named them his "Chosen." He and his minions infiltrated all corners of the city, spread his message of hatred and chaos, and seeped into law enforcement, politics, and the criminal underworld. He enabled them to operate with impunity and shield their activities from the public's prying eyes.
At their peak, they had hundreds of members (many were Paranormal), with many enthralled Apparitions and Abominable under their thumb. However, they naturally conflicted with other organizations in St. Portwell, and the Dollhouse organization manipulated the 8th Street Coven and the Greenwood Coven into going to war with Das Sonnenrad. After a lengthy conflict, the two Covens formed a temporary truce, killed Nathanial Thorne, dismantled his organization, and continued their feud. The remains of Das Sonnenrad either went to the other factions or formed smaller, ineffectual groups.
Cracker Island is a famous tourist destination located off the coast of St. Portwell, accessible only by ferry. Named after its founder, William Cracker, the island is renowned for its Historic District, an area frozen in time. The district is a popular attraction, with cobblestone streets, antique lampposts, and beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, and stepping through it is like entering a long-gone era. The island is also known for its beach resorts, which attract visitors seeking a summer retreat. The resorts offer a range of activities, from private beaches to spas to fine dining. The beach resorts offer some stunning views of the ocean.
Cracker Island is best known for its haunted reputation, centered around the haunted mansion on the hill. This spooky landmark draws thousands of visitors each year, especially during the famous Halloween Festival. The festival transforms the island into a spooky wonderland, with ferry fees waived to encourage attendance. Tours of the haunted mansion are a highlight, with ghost stories and legends passed down through generations. The mansion's dark history is rooted in a mysterious cult that once inhabited the island.
The Maritime Museum stands at the harbor's edge, and acts as a beacon of St. Portwell's seafaring history. The building's design purposefully evokes a sense of nostalgia, with a lighthouse-like tower and wooden accents reminiscent of an old shipyard. The museum's entrance is framed by large anchor sculptures, and inside, visitors are greeted with a view of the harbor through massive windows. The museum's interior is a treasure trove of artifacts from a bygone era.
Exhibits include antique navigational instruments, weathered ship wheels, and intricately crafted model ships—each with a detailed placard explaining its significance. This museum is designed to tell St. Portwell's rise from its humble beginnings as a small fishing village to a major west-coast city. The museum's most popular attraction is the interactive section, where visitors can tie knots or learn about the inner workings of a ship's engine. The museum also features a gallery dedicated to famous ships that have docked in St. Portwell over the years, with photos and memorabilia.
The Coastal Harbor Mall is St. Portwell's premier shopping destination, known for its unique nautical-theme and diversity in businesses. The mall boasts striking sail-shaped awnings, porthole-inspired windows, and a mosaic that wraps around the building. This mosaic depicts scenes of fishing boats, dolphins, and other oceanic imagery.
Inside the mall is a marketplace filled with shops catering to various tastes and interests from all over the (nautical) world! You can find clothing stores that peddle coastal-inspired fashion, from beachwear to elegant attire. Handcrafted jewelry and home decor boutiques offer unique pieces with a nautical flair and bookstores are stocked with a vast selection of novels and travel guides inspired by different sea adventures. The mall's famous feature is its rooftop area, transformed into a simulated beach. This space is a haven for those seeking relaxation and fun, complete with natural sand, beach chairs, and even a wave pool.
Arcade Blues is a famous arcade tucked away in the heart of St. Portwell. The arcade's exterior features a large neon sign shaped like a ship's wheel and wooden double doors. Upon entering, the ambiance immediately transports visitors back to a time when arcade games were king. The walls are decorated with murals depicting classic arcade characters sailing through oceanic scenes. Rows of arcade machines line the walls, featuring a mix of retro classics and modern games. From the iconic games of the 80s and 90s to newer hits with a retro twist, Arcade Blues has something for every gamer.
Port-AWE is a nightclub in St. Portwell famous for its vibrant atmosphere and female-friendly focus. The club's exterior reflects a mix of nautical and contemporary designs, and the entrance is lined with a red velvet rope with polished brass fixtures. The interior of Port-AWE is designed to impress, with a layout that encourages dancing, mingling, and relaxation. The club's main dance floor is spacious, strobe lights and lasers pulse in time with the music, creating the perfect club vibe. The DJ booth is frequently headlined by renowned female DJs who know how to keep the energy high and the booties bouncing. The music ranges from popular hip-hop songs to electronic beats, and Port-AWE has several areas for guests to enjoy.
The PRA office in St. Portwell is housed in a massive office building that blends seamlessly into the urban landscape. From the outside, it resembles a typical commercial high-rise, with reflective glass windows, sleek lines, and a modern design that isn't out of place with the city's business district. The PRA office has no signs or anything to indicate its true purpose, helping it maintain a low profile while operating as a base for all PRA activities in St. Portwell and surrounding regions. The building's exterior features a simple gray-and-glass façade with lush landscaping and a small park to help it blend in with surrounding office buildings.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a spacious, sleek lobby with a professional, business-like atmosphere. The reception area is staffed by well-dressed security personnel from the front, a tech company known as Medford Tech Solutions, giving the impression of a regular office building belonging to a just a regular corporation. Security personnel conduct thorough checks but under the guise of routine visitor management. Visitors must sign in at digital kiosks, with most foot traffic consisting of agents posing as office workers.
Behind the scenes, however, the PRA operates with high security and strict clearance protocols. Though the lobby's design suggests a typical technology company, access beyond the front desk is regulated, requiring clearance and biometric checks to get past it. The modern decor and subtle company branding mask the covert operations within, with PRA agents seamlessly blending into the daily activity of the office building.
The upper floors contain a complex network of offices, laboratories, and briefing rooms designed to handle the unique needs of a paranormal investigative agency. A dedicated communications center monitors radio frequencies and internet activity to detect any signs of paranormal disturbances. It also has extensive training facilities, including a large indoor gym and simulated combat environments for agents to practice their skills. There are secure storage areas for sensitive equipment and evidence, a vault where the PRA contains sealed Apparitions and collected artifacts, a dedicated forensics lab to analyze paranormal artifacts, and private rooms for classified briefings.
Christiansands is a nightclub situated in Downtown St. Portwell. The club opens its doors at eight on the dot every day, ensuring the party never skips a beat. Located on a bustling street corner, Christiansands stands out with its modern design, featuring sleek glass panels, neon lights, and a bold sign that shines brightly against the nighttime sky. The club's energy is visible even from a distance, with its thumping bass and rhythmic beats resonating through the streets, drawing crowds from all over.
The line to get into Christiansands is often long, going down the sidewalk as eager patrons wait to enter. On weekends, the line can stretch for blocks, with partygoers chatting it up as they inch closer to the entrance. Even on a quiet Tuesday, the club has no shortage of attendees, a testament to its popularity. The bouncers, dressed in sharp black suits and equipped with earpieces, maintain a tight watch, carefully vetting everyone seeking entry.
But the natural allure of Christiansands lies in its VIP section, and whoever is trying to enter is carefully vetted. The VIP area offers luxurious seating, private bars, and a dedicated DJ, providing a more intimate setting for conversations and business deals. Dollhouse's leadership often holds meetings with other factions and prospective members in this exclusive section, using the club's bustling ambiance as cover for their clandestine activities.
Beyond the bright lights and glamour, Christiansands serves as a front for Dollhouse's darker operations. The club's high-profile status and continuous flow of people make it an ideal meeting spot for covert discussions and exchanges. The staff, carefully picked by Dollhouse's leadership, ensure that the club's true purpose remains hidden from prying eyes. While most patrons come for the music and nightlife, the leaders of Dollhouse and their associates use the club as a hub for planning, strategizing, and recruiting new members.
The Greenwood Coven's "base of operations" is a secluded campsite deep within the dense woods surrounding St. Portwell. The campsite is protected by a natural barrier of foliage, with an inconspicuous path leading to it that only the coven members know. However, as a safety measure, occasionally, the camp is packed up and moved to a different location that is scouted out beforehand.
The heart of the campsite is a large communal area with a central fire pit that serves as the focal point for gatherings, meetings, and rituals (that involve eating ass). Around the fire pit, several weathered logs and handmade benches provide seating for the members of Greenwood, where they party, share stories, and whatnot. Several tents are scattered around the central area, each belonging to different members of the Greenwood Coven. These tents vary in size and style, some simple and practical, while others are adorned with colorful patterns and decorations. Each tent has its personality, reflecting the individuality of the Greenwood Coven.
The 8th Street Manor, perched on a hill overlooking 8th Street in St. Portwell, is a foreboding structure. It was once the home of a wealthy family, but Emily G. Reed and her 8th Street Coven coerced the owners into selling it to her for a mere pittance. The manor's architecture exudes old-world elegance with its traditional stonework, ornate columns, and sweeping front porch. The manor's exterior is timeless, with its wrought-iron gates and manicured lawns extending from the street to the mansion's entrance.
The 8th Street Manor is well maintained inside, as Emily has to bully her Coven into keeping it clean. The floors and hallways are crafted from an elegant dark wood that seems oddly inviting for a place that acts as the base of operations for the 8th Street Coven. Despite it all, it maintains a constant air of sophistication. Emily tries to keep the 8th Street Coven's activities subtle, but not even she can keep her rambunctious Coven in check at times. So, occasionally, explosions, screaming, shouting, and magic can be seen and heard, leading to exciting talks with the police.
The primary meeting room is a gigantic hall by the main entrance with a wooden table that spawns the entire room and ends in Emily's throne, which she took from Kaiser Draeger after his defeat. This hall acts as a hangout, meeting spot, and planning room. However, the 8th Street Manor is large enough to accommodate each member of the 8th Street and still leaves some empty rooms. The minions and underlings have their rooms on the first floor, while 8th Street's leadership have their rooms on the second - and the underlings are not allowed up there unless they have a reason.
Hidden within the 8th Street Manor is a magical vault, which is also hidden behind a random bookcase, and to open the door, all you have to do is pull on a random green book. However, that is not the only security measure installed; behind it is a magical vault with floating runes surrounding it, and to enter, a member has to press the rules in the correct order. If they are not pressed in the proper order, the attempted intruder is launched with a powerful magical force while it sets off an alarm that will blare through the entire manor. If they are pressed in the correct order, the vault opens to reveal a portal into a pocket dimension within the 8th Street Manor, a simple, massive, stone-lined chamber. Here, artifacts are displayed within magically sealed display cases, where 8th Street keeps its most valuable and powerful artifacts. The walls have sturdy shelving units for additional storage, and this is where 8th Street stores the less valuable artifacts. Additionally, the room is protected by a spell that repels teleportation and portal creation, ensuring no one can enter the vault (get rekt Jack).
However, another notable location within the manor is Greta Faust's lab. In stark contrast to the ornate halls of the manor, it has a practical design, with sterile white walls and fluorescent lighting that casts a harsh glow. Greta's lab features sturdy workbenches and cabinets cluttered with glass beakers, test tubes, and various ingredients for her potions. The lab's centerpiece is a large cauldron, which Greta has been using to develop a special "contingency plan" if the Stygian Snake escapes. Along one wall, she keeps her potion locked in a sturdy cabinet, making it abundantly clear to the rest of 8th Street that they are not allowed to touch her potions. A corner of the lab serves as Greta's "personal space," which has a cozy chair, a desk that she typically sleeps on, and a modern laptop in the corner. Note that Greta has her bedroom.
The Wolfpack's clubhouse is a dilapidated two-story building located in the northeast section of St. Portwell. The exterior is a patchwork of crumbling brick, graffiti, and rusted metal, with broken windows partially covered by worn-out plywood. The once-grand entrance has been reduced to a pair of beaten-down double doors adorned with the Wolfpack's spray-painted logo.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the pungent smell of stale beer, cigarettes, and lousy coochie, an overwhelming assault on the olfactory senses. The main hall, which doubles as a common area, is littered with broken furniture and beer bottles, and the sagging sofas are arranged around a well-worn pool table, which has seen better days. It's common to find members of the Wolfpack lounging here, playing pool, drinking, and swapping stories about their latest exploits.
At the far end of the hall, there's a makeshift bar, where the refrigerator is stocked with cheap beer and other drinks (on a good day, they'll loot a liquor store). Behind the bar, a line of mismatched barstools leans at precarious angles, with some completely missing legs, and you are playing with your life if you sit on them. The back wall features a large mural of a wolf's head, complete with jagged teeth.
Adjacent to the main hall are several smaller rooms where the Wolfpack conducts its business. One room is a meeting area where Dean (previously Judas) plans his next moves. Another room is a crude office where bookkeeping and drug transactions occur, its walls adorned with maps of St. Portwell and marked with areas under the Wolfpack's control. The second floor contains sleeping quarters for those staying overnight at the clubhouse. The conditions are rough, with stained mattresses on the floor, cracked walls, and makeshift curtains for privacy.
Rusty Joe's Auto Repair Shop is a location that appears to be a legitimate business, a simple garage situated on a busy street corner in an industrial district. The shop has a wide garage entrance with several bays for working on cars and motorcycles, and the exterior walls are adorned with graffiti. Inside, the shop has a chaotic but organized feel, with tools, engine parts, and metal scraps strewn across the workbenches. The smell of oil and gasoline stinks while a radio plays rock and metal music in the background. This front operation allows the Wolfpack to maintain a steady cash flow while hiding its more nefarious activities.
Beneath the repair shop's floor lies the heart of the operation: an underground chop shop where stolen vehicles are dismantled. A hidden hydraulic lift in one of the bays leads to this secret area, and it's clear that this is where the Wolfpack strips stolen cars and motorcycles for valuable parts. This area is dimly lit, and the workers here are loyal members of the Wolfpack, always wary of intrusion. The sound of grinding metal and welding is constant, and it's a place where no questions are asked. People disappear when they do.
The Warehouse is a location on the industrial outskirts of St. Portwell, in a largely neglected part of town where the Police are too scared to go. It's a sprawling building with high ceilings and large, roll-up doors designed for trucks to load and unload cargo. The warehouse looks abandoned from the outside, with rusted metal, faded paint, and weeds growing all over. However, security is tight, with members of the Wolfpack patrolling the perimeter at all times and surveillance cameras monitoring all entry points. Inside, the warehouse is divided into sections for different kinds of contraband: drugs, weapons, women, stolen goods, and magical artifacts. Each section is secured with heavy locks and guarded by members of the Wolfpack. Still, only higher-ranking members of the Wolfpack have the key.
Discreet and strategically located throughout St. Portwell, these are typically old apartment buildings or homes in rundown neighborhoods, where police presence is minimal. The exteriors of these safe houses are inconspicuous; inside, the safe houses are designed for covert operations, with hidden compartments to stash weapons and contraband. These locations are hastily put together with torn sofas, barely any food or utensils, and air mattresses with holes. These safe houses hide members on the run, store stolen goods temporarily, or conduct business meetings away from prying eyes. Each safe house has a rotating lookout that keeps an eye out for intruders, whether rival gangs, Feds, or anyone else.
A Once a symbol of wealth and prestige, this sprawling mansion was repurposed into a stronghold of the Das Sonnenrad Cult with Kaiser Draeger, at its heart. Hidden deep in a remote forested area, it was accessible through a single narrow road, allowing easy monitoring and control of who came and entered. Its isolation served as a natural barrier to outsiders, with an imposing black cast-iron gate as another barrier. The mansion's exterior was a stark contrast to its inhabitants, crafted out of stone that had been painted a white color. The inhabitants meticulously maintained the sanctuary's grounds, and there was a rotating schedule for who did the lawn work each day. The front entrance was two massive doors carved with archaic sun symbols.
The mansion's grand foyer featured a sweeping staircase with ornate railings leading to the upper floors, where high-ranking members of Das Sonnenrad lived. A massive crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting an eerie glow across the space. The main hall, often used for meetings and gatherings, had an enormous stone fireplace with intricate carvings that reflected the cult's Aryan mythology. Beneath the mansion lay a labyrinthine basement, which housed the cult's ritual chambers and storage areas for their artifacts. This underground network has a double purpose: to provide secret exits in case the sanctuary is compromised and to confuse intruders with dead ends, fake doors, and passages scattered everywhere.
However, in the final battle against the Das Sonnenrad Cult, which saw Kaiser Draeger's Death, the Sanctuary was burned to the ground.
The Wolf's Den was a secret bunker created by Das Sonnenrad as a hidden refuge for Kaiser Draeger and other high-ranking members of the cult, but now it operates as the headquarters for their successor group: The New Thule Society. Located deep within the remote outskirts of St. Portwell, the bunker is a well-concealed location, requiring a series of directions to follow to the letter. To reach the Wolf's Den, one must first travel down a specific highway until they reach a speed limit sign. From there, it's a matter of venturing into the dense forest and following a trail of Norse=Pagan symbols carved into trees. Following the correct sequence of symbols leads to a bush at the base of a hill, so inconspicuous pretty much anyone would disregard it, but pushing past it reveals a stone passage.
This passageway leads to a large metal door with an access hatch. The interior of the bunker is a long, dimly lit tunnel leading downward. Inside the Wolf's Den, the main chamber is a large, square concrete room with dangling lights and a massive oval-shaped table surrounded by numerous chairs. This room serves as the central meeting area for Das Sonnenrad's remnants, with other smaller rooms branching off from the main chamber, each serving different functions—storage, living quarters, planning areas, etc.
So, I've been doing some updates to some of the NPC sheets, and I also came up with three new ones. Below are the updated sheets... Judas and Ruby got the big updates (I wrote their description and changed some of Ruby's spells), but I also completely changed Lynette's abstraction and did some major updates to Jacqueline's so that nobody can speedrun the story.
Oh yeah, I made three new NPCs. They're cool. Go look at them.
Lynette.Domínguez
28 | Lynette Whitney Domínguez | She/Her "Knowledge is everything... or maybe it's nothing. I'll let you decide."
Description:
Close friend of Britney Williams, she is one of the founding members of the Sycamore Tree Coven. She's not a native of St. Portwell; she's originally from New York. Her father got a big-time job in St. Portwell, and she moved to the city with her family (her parents and her two younger siblings). Lynette went through her Kindling-Event, talked to her dead grandmother one last time, and developed a mild obsession with magic. She gained a great deal of knowledge of magic when the Stygian Snake began its rampage, and the thing nearly killed her and her siblings... however, she was saved by Ashley, Daisy, and Auri and then roped into the Coven - she was under that Sycamore Tree that they formed their pact under.
She participated in the various battles against the Stygian Snake and was glad to be a part of the Coven... only for it to devolve into a mess of childish bickering. Lynette did her best to keep the best and try to mediate many of the arguments, but over time, people left one by one, and despite her best efforts, the Coven was no more (but she kept in touch with Auri and Britney). Lynette decided to explore magic on her terms... and swallowed her pride to briefly join Emily's 8th Street Coven - becoming the third in command for a stint - however, she left them when they started terrorizing St. Portwell. However, Lynette entered college for Intelligence Studies, where she met her future best friend, Victoria Blackmore. Like Victoria, she graduated with a master's with minors in logistics and joined the "FBI,"... and when Auri put out the call, Lynette, sadly, had to decline but said she would gladly join. Lynette is half Dominican and half Haitian but identifies as black and is average height but fit.
Abstraction: Adept - Red & Orange Lux. Channeler: Her grandmother's necklace
Glyphs: The primary spell discipline that Lynette has crafted during her time in the Old Coven. It works simply: She has several symbols associated with a spell and has to draw them in the environment to activate them. They either let her manipulate elements in a radius around the glyph or create the element out of the glyph. However, the glyph's size determines the radius's size or how large a component she can create. There is no upper limit to the size and scope of the glyphs, and she can make them the size of countries. However, these glyphs must be drawn perfectly to work, so that's next to impossible. Below are the glyphs Lynette has created thus far:
Fire: Fire represents the power of fire and can be used to create flames. Depending on the glyph's size, the effects can range from small fireballs to full-on infernos.
Earth: This glyph allows Lynette to manipulate earth-based elements such as soil, rocks, and sand in a radius around the glyph (the more extensive the glyph, the further away she can manipulate the earth). It can be used to create barriers, earthquakes, or shifting landscapes.
Water: This grants control of water in a radius around the glyph (again, size is dependent on the glyph), allowing Lynette to manipulate it in various forms, such as creating water-based projectiles, controlling currents, or generating protective shields.
Ice: This glyph is used to create and manipulate ice in a radius around it, allowing Lynette to create frozen constructs, freeze objects in her vicinity, and launch icy projectiles.
Air: Represents the manipulation of air and wind and can be used to create gusts of wind and entire tornadoes.
Electricity: This glyph allows Lynette to cast electrical attacks, enabling Lynette to shock nearby foes and shoot lightning bolts and other feats.
Plants: Created with Britney Williams's help, this glyph allows Lynette to create and manipulate plant life. It will enable her to shape and create floral structures, rejuvenate plants, etc.
Light: Light represents the power of light, which allows Lynette to generate blinding flashes, create light constructions, or fire deadly laser beams.
Abstraction-Boosting: This glyph boosts the abstractions of everyone within a radius - including Lynette. The larger the glyph, the larger the radius and the more influential the abstractions will become.
Protective-Glyph: A glyph that boosts everyone's emotional fields within a certain radius inside of it, making them far more resistant to magical attacks.
Jacqueline.Reed
25 | Jacqueline Mackenzie Reed | She/HerStrength is not spells and artifacts; it comes from within."
Description:
The beloved younger sister of Emily G. Reed and her twin sister, Miranda Reed, are (together) the third-in-command of the 8th Street Coven. Jacqueline is the opposite of her sister, Miranda, where Miranda is the girly of the two; she is more adventurous and fearless (with a hint of brutality). Jacqueline grew up the more tomboyish of the two and loved exploring St. Portwell's woods, which she claims crafted her into the person she is today. While the girl is ruthless, she has a deep reverence for nature and the outdoors (which makes her a bit more sympathetic towards 8th Street's rival, Greenwood) - and is the ultimate free spirit. She would do anything to maintain her independence above all else.
However, much like her sister, she is a loving and compassionate person who, deep down, reveres the rest of the 8th Street Coven as sisters and loves each one. This hidden compassion leads Jacqueline (alongside Miranda) to attempt to quell her older sister's brutality and try to keep 8th Street on the straight and narrow. She doesn't want to see them get hurt or arrested if (or when) they finally go too far. Jacqueline is a skinny Caucasian girl who usually dresses for practically rather than style - so expect jackets with lots of pockets, cargo pants, etc - and is a bit more athletic from hiking.
Abstraction: Agent - The Expert's Book.
The Expert's Book is an artifact given to Jacqueline Reed by her older sister, Emily, and it is a leather book inscribed with golden runes. The book gets its power from a Sealed-Apparition known as The Expert, a being with a vast wealth of knowledge and wisdom that is willing and wanting to share. However, the Expert is not just a passive source of information; it has a distinct personality and has chosen Jacqueline as its host (Or in its words "Scholar").
It's an Apparition with a quirky, annoying, and exceptionally pedantic personality that communicates with Jacqueline through the words on its pages and occasionally nudges Jacqueline towards specific topics, suggesting it has its agenda. The Expert chose Jacqueline as its host because of her adventurous spirit and thirst for knowledge, and this bond is not just a matter of preference; there is a magical bond that makes the book useless in anyone else's hands. The Expert is connected to Jacqueline's soul, and The Expert has no obligation to share its knowledge with anyone else. So if separated from it, the book pages will remain blank until Jacqueline reclaims it. If someone kills or injures its current Scholar to take the book, The Expert will know and permanently lock itself out to the killer and any of its associates. Only when the current Scholar willingly gives up the book or dies will the Expert choose a new Scholar, but they must be worthy of the Expert's power.
To use the Expert's Book, Jacqueline has to ask it a question (either out loud or internally). Its pages come alive with countless pages filled with comprehensive knowledge of the subject or topic she wants to learn about. Plenty of this information is useless, so Jacqueline sometimes has to comb through the book to find valuable information. The book has a "slotting" system, where it can only learn about one subject at a time and gets discarded and replaced with the subject. This ability allows Jacqueline to gain near-omniscient knowledge, but only within the bounds of her questions.
Ruby.White
30 | Ruby Kierra White | She/Her"Eating ass and saving grass."
Description:
The fearless leader of the Greenwood Coven, Ruby, is a very eccentric woman whose antics confuse and annoy the Greenwood Coven. She is known to be incredibly stubborn, with a holier-than-thou attitude, and impulsive - with a borderline Messiah Complex. The rest of the Greenwood Coven love her dearly, but they operate as a balancing act to her more eccentric behavior. Ruby was born and raised within The Temple of Charming and Graceful Individuals to a single mother named Sandra White. Her father was never in the picture, and, honestly, Sandra never knew who he was, not that she cared because he didn't want anything to do with the Temple - which was everything to Sandra, and ended up being everything to Ruby.
Ruby grew up being very close to the leader of the Temple, Lynette Richoux, as she was being developed into one of her future Crones. However, fate would lead Ruby down a different path when they discovered a magical grove some distance away from the Temple during a game of hide-and-seek with friends. When she stepped into this place, she felt a connection to nature like no other, and it filled her with wonder - as it was the most beautiful place she had seen. Little to her, the Grove was a magical, semi-sentient location that only let in those it deemed worthy.
The place became Ruby's Sanctuary, and she retreated to receive that same wonder well into her adult years. However, after the battle with the Stygian Snake, more Apparitions flooded into St. Portwell, and one entered the Grove. Ruby entered the Grove one day and found it all burning. The very thing she loved as a child in flames caused Ruby to fall to her knees and scream, causing her Kindling-Event. Yet, she could not save the Grove; it was beyond saving, and she watched it burn before her eyes.
This was one big clarion call for Ruby as she realized St.well was crumbling underneath her feet... Getting let into the Grove and being the only person to enter filled Ruby with a new form of determination and a new ego as she felt like the Chosen One. This was a calling from the Grove to become the savior of St. Portwell and protect nature... Then she realized that her time with the Temple was ending. She trained with their Adepts for the time being, but ultimately, she found her true calling and created a Coven: The Greenwood Coven. She roped three of her friends into it, and together, they had many adventures as she defeated Apparitions, witches and warlocks, and other monsters threatening nature.
Ruby is an average-height woman who stands at five-five and has a skinny, somewhat athletic build. Ruby is half-black and half-white but identifies as African-American and has dyed red dreadlocks, the most notable features in her eyes. However, she has a nasty burn scar on her right arm from a battle with Emily G. Reed (who she fucking hates). She likens herself to a modern-day superhero as, when the time calls, she dons her Spring Maiden alter-ego and wages war against the other factions. While the Spring Maiden, she walks around with a giant tree branch, which acts as her channeler.
Her longtime girlfriend is Amelia Dallon, the Fall Maiden.
Abstraction: Adept - Red & Pink. Channeler: A branch from a piece of the Grove that was not destroyed.
Spring-Beams: Ruby's primary spell and offensive weapon, she can generate concussive beams from her channeler. These beams were a dull-yellow color, and she could control the force they hit with (They can range from a punch to knocking a car over). These beams had a secondary effect of generating plant life (roots, grass, foliage, etc.) wherever they hit, and she can control what gets generated to a degree. She can use it to create plant structures to suit whatever needs.
Growth-Spurt: With a wave of her "wand," she can cause flowers to bloom, trees to flourish, and fields to become fertile—even in places where they would not logically grow. She can induce explosive plant growth in her vicinity, and this spell is most potent during the spring equinox.
Forest Shield:Spell can quickly erect a massive barrier out of the ground of vines, thorns, and woods that can be pretty difficult to penetrate.
Verdant Platforms: Ruby can create a platform made out of plants in the environment at will and use them to get as high as she pleases. She can create several at once that are either above or lower than her but remain present until they either wither away or get destroyed.
Aeromancy: Ruby can control and manipulate the air element with a wave of her wand. She can conjure powerful gusts of wind, create air currents, and even summon a tornado to ravage foes. Ruby has learned she can achieve a pseudo-form of flight by laughing herself around with the winds.
Emotion-Sensing: Ruby can see the auras of people around her by blinking her eyes and discern their emotional state from their color. She can also foster an emotional bond between people and allow them to see each other’s emotions.
Positive-Emotion Amplification: Ruby can cause positive emotions in others (bypassing Emotional-Fields) even in the darkest hours. She can induce joy, hope, and happiness in her targets, but her fellow Coven members don't like their emotions manipulated, so she rarely uses this Spell.
Emotional-Repulsion: Ruby can focus on her targets, bSpelling any Emotional-Fields, and induce emotions such as fear, discomfort, and uncertainty to ward them away.
Psychic-Shield: Ruby can create a barrier of Pink-Lux that prevents psychic shielding to all those who enter. No one can use emotional or mental magic while behind the Psychic Shield.
Alert: Another spell Ruby created alerts her if someone attempts to enter her head... and illuminates the aura of whoever is trying to.
Sanctuary: Ruby can create an entire structure made of plant matter, such as a building or a large dome, to serve as a haven for herself and others, which regenerates itself. This Sanctuary offers physical protection with its sturdy walls and a calming aura that fills the space with positive emotions (like happiness).
Maiden Flash: A Joint-Cast and "Final weapon" that is cast between all four of the Maidens. They form a triangle formation - with Ruby in front and the other three behind her with their arms extended, and they channel their Red-Lux into her. This ritual charges up Ruby and her channeler, the tree branch, as she aims at the target. Once fully charged, it unleashes a devastating beam of magical energy, a kaleidoscope of different colors. When it fades, it reveals that the entire area has been converted into a forest. This Joint-Cast requires time to charge up, but the longer it is charged, the more effective it is.
Judas.Bennet..........(Deceased)
39 | Roxanne Samantha Bennet | She/Her/He/Him"We're not just bikers; we're the architects of chaos. So tell me, bitch; are you willing to ride?"
Description:
The leader of the Wolfpack, known as the Poppa Wolf, was the fierce kingpin of St. Portwell before his final battle and death at the hands of his subordinate, Shayton. However, before there was Judas, there was Roxanne.
Roxanne was born into the Temple of Charming and Graceful Individuals, and she didn't know her father - he didn't want anything to do with the young Roxanne, so her mother raised her alone. Her mother worked her back off, even as a member of the Temple, to keep a roof over their heads and food in their bellies. As a consequence, Roxanne didn't see her a lot and thus didn't have her guiding hand to keep Roxanne on the straight and narrow. Living in squalor and wondering if this was the day something happened and they would be put on the street made Roxanne ambitious. She had no choice but to think of ways to make money, and she was smart, so naturally, the best thing for a young Roxanne to do was fall into a life of crime. It started in high school, where she was already shoplifting, selling drugs, and sometimes herself.
It was all necessary to get some money to help her mother out, and as the young Roxanne fell into crime, she spent less and less time in school until she dropped out entirely. She left the Temple, too, but she didn't want anything to do with them. As she fell further into the criminal underworld of St. Portwell, working for different kingpins and surviving through her quick wit only, she quickly realized that women didn't get a lot of respect there. She was hungry, and she wanted her spot at the top, but it was apparent that her comrades only looked at her for what was between her legs. She tried to form her biker gang that would turn St. Portwell on its damn head.
That was when, after a conversation with her boyfriend, Valjean Vasil, she discovered the best solution for her problem: assume a male identity. And thus, Judas Bennet was born, and Judas got everything Roxanne wanted. Judas formed the Wolfpack. However, they were very little more than petty drug peddlers and nobodies in the grand scheme of things... up until Dollhouse entered the picture and gave Judas an offer he couldn't refuse: Dollhouse supplies him and his cronies with Abstractions, and in return, the Wolfpack occasionally act as muscle. Judas accepted it without a second thought, and Judas Bennet became a big name in St. Portwell's underworld until a fateful final battle with the PRA ended with his death.
His legacy lives on as the Wolfpack's leadership changed hands from Judas to Dean.
Abstraction: Adjoined - Urbania.
Judas has access to Urbania, the Apparition that embodies the sprawling cityscape and allows Judas to manipulate all the elements that comprise the city. Judas is easily one of the most potent and dangerous Paranormal-Beings in St. Portwell. He can use concrete, glass, asphalt, wire, and rebar and manipulate and to generate it as far as the eye can see.
He can create dramatic structures such as buildings in the blink of an eye and manipulate the existing cityscape to escape quickly. Judas can also scry on different locations in the city by looking at the glass, allowing him to see and hear what is taking place in front of them. Judas can spy on any location in the city through glass; however, it is a two-way street as they can also see and hear him.
Shaquita.Walker
??? | Shaquita Desiree Walker | She/Her"... You present a clear and present danger to our plans."
Description:
The mysterious boogeywoman of the Dollhouse organization, and one of their most fearsome, brutal, and cunning members.
She primarily acts as the bodyguard for Dollhouse's leadership, but sometimes she is an assassin or a "repo-woman" for any Abscised that tries to cut and run. It's a mystery where she came from, but she is effective, and she has killed everyone who has had the displeasure of being on the opposing end of her pistol. While Shaquita is silent, when she does speak, she speaks with a lack of affect, and is to the point, and not just that, she is very intelligent, occasionally participating in Dollhouse's planning. While she is a mystery, she has an interest in the Sycamore Tree Coven and has done extensive research into them and can name every member by name - not that she would let that slip. Shaquita is a tall, well-built African-American woman who stands at six-three and typically has a scowl on her face.
Abstraction:
Unknown. She is strangely immune to psychic intrusion.
Hagan.Rosefey
27 | Hagan William Rosefey | He/Him"My advice is to make sense of this crazy world we live in for yourself. Don't let anyone decide that for you."
Description:
Member of the Old Coven, cousin brother of Jessica Rosefey (of the Greenwood Coven), and all-around shithead.
He, like his cousin, was born in St. Portwell, however he was... troubled. He never played well with other kids growing up and was always an aggressive, anti-social kid, and he was always a target for bullying because he was smaller. His older cousin tried to help him out, but there was only so much she could do until Hagan hit puberty and became the big boy. To make up for the negative feelings he built up from getting bullied, he became the bully. Hagan was the big bully at school, and was feared as few could stand up to the guy because he was big and knew how to fight! He declared himself the king of the school... unfortunately, one summer, there wasn't much to be king over.
The Stygian Snake began its rampage, and Hagan's classmates were getting picked off left and right, and every night he would just... blackout and wake up somewhere else when the morning hit. He began having violent thoughts, and would sometimes wake up with blood on his hands. This was because the Stygian Snake had enthralled Hagan, and was seeking to turn him into its second herald alongside Scott Reese. However, the Sycamore Tree Coven saw this plan, and with some fast action and quick thinking, managed to liberate Hagan by putting an artifact known as The Anchor (A giant nautical anchor that grants whoever super strength, and the ability to make him unmoveable) in his hands; granting him an Emotional-Field and purging the Stygian Snake's influence from his mind.
When he came to, after he got done screaming, the Sycamore Tree Coven told him the entire situation and invited him into the Coven. He accepted only to stroke his ego, and while he behaved at first, he couldn't help but bully people and be an asshole - and generally show zero appreciation for being saved from being the Stygian's personal killing machine. He helped defeat the Stygian Snake... however, his behavior didn't cease (arguably got worse), and the Coven eventually voted him out. However, they wanted back The Anchor, and Hagan refused to give it up, which led to a violent confrontation where the Coven kicked his ass and took it from him; leaving him in a ditch.
Angry, hurt, and betrayed, Hagan underwent a Kindling-Event and was confused at first, but he knew a few things from the other Adepts. However, there wasn't much of a come-up for Hagan from there, as he fell into a life of petty crime and selling drugs to kids in the suburbs. He eventually fell into the Wolfpack and operated as one of Judas' muscles. Hagan is a very tall and strongly built man who stands at six-five and has a head of slicked-back blonde hair.
Great Barrier: The primary spell in Hagan's arsenal, a barrier. The Great Barrier is a large-scale defensive barrier around himself or an area to protect against incoming attacks. The barrier is durable enough to withstand a barrage from several assault rifles or a super strong punch and can tank mundane and magical attacks easily. Hagan can shape it however he wants to, and even adjust its dimensions on the fly, using it to shield himself or his allies from harm, and when necessary, he can use his Purple-Lux to maneuver the barrier around - and even offensively, launching the barrier forward to knock enemies back.
Chain-Whip: One of Hagan's primary forms of combat, chain-whip, involves creating a force field in the shape of chains and using it as a whip. Using his Purple-Lux, he can telekinetically manipulate it and enhance its speed and strikes to make it a devastating close-to-mid-range weapon.
Charge: Mixing his Purple and Yellow Lux, Hagan uses the latter to surround himself in a protective aura and the former to launch himself like a rocket. With Charge, he can knock aside anything that isn't nailed down and put holes in concrete, but he cannot alter his trajectory once cast.
Boxing glove: Hagan once again mixes his Purple and Yellow Lux to surround his fist in a force field shaped like a boxing glove. This "glove" is incredibly durable and enhances Hagan's strikes, and using his Purple Lux, he can strike at lightning speeds.
Barrage: Channeling pure Purple-Lux, Hagan activates super-speed in his arms and unleashes a barrage of punches so fast that the human eye cannot perceive it. He can only do this for a few moments, but that's fast enough to absolutely devastate a target.
Leap: Hagan developed this spell so he can get around without having to use Charge. Hagan launches himself off the ground and lands at a predetermined spot—he uses his Purple Lux to cushion his fall.
Wolf's Head: This is a simple attack spell in which Hagan creates a barrier in the shape of a giant wolf's head that chomps down on a foe—it is strong enough to bite a car in half.
The Absolute Terror Field: A unique spell that changes Hagan's Emotional-Field into an automatic barrier that blocks out magical attacks. The Absolute Terror Field is normally invisible until a threat is detected when it creates a translucent shield around it that deflects incoming magic. It has a relatively small radius of around one meter around Hagan, which is enough to cover him, but the Absolute Terror Field is fast, quick enough to respond to attacks near-instantly. Not only that, it's insanely durable and is enough to stop even the strongest magical attacks like its nothing. In addition to this, the Absolute Terror Field can generate a burst of force to push back attackers in the event that their attack is physical. The Absolute Terror Field can only remain active for five minutes, and afterward, it has a cooldown of around thirty minutes. While using The Absolute Terror Field, Hagan cannot use the Great Barrier, so he must choose between being functionally invulnerable to magic for a short period of time or protecting himself and allies from all damage.
Isaac.Kane
47 | Isaac Allen Kane | He/Him"I knew you were coming, before you knew you were coming."
Description:
One of the main men in St. Portwell, Isaac is a very popular broker that deals in the most valuable thing in St. Portwell: Information. Isaac, with his vast network of contacts and sources, is highly competent and buys and sells secrets, information, and anything else to the highest bidder. He works with anyone in St. Portwell, from the mundane crime factions to the various magical organizations (Except for the PRA, whom he vehemently despises), and fiercely maintains his neutrality at all costs. Despite it all, Issac attempts to maintain the balance of the city and tries to ensure that one powerhouse doesn't bulldoze over their opposite.
It's unknown what Isaac's past is... all that's known is that he's from LA and worked with various different mafias on the west coast. Issac is a tall, African-American, man with a cool demeanor and classy sense of fashion - seemingly having two suits in every color. He is a habitual cigar chomper and is as trademark to his appearance as his sense of style!
Abstraction: Adjoined - Perseverance.
Perseverance is the Abstraction used by an Apparition named Mr. Morale and lets Issac survive hell. Mr. Morale is an Apparition with a mysterious origin; what he does say is that he was created by a group of people who faced adversity like no other and powered through it through determination, willpower, and strength. Their drive to survive this hell is what created Mr. Morale, and somehow it ended up in the hands of Isaac. With Mr. Morale's abstraction, Perseverance, Isaac has an array of abilities that make him one tough son of a bitch - he's far from invincible, however.
The first ability is that it makes Issac resilient, and he can keep going despite any injuries or if he's exhausted, allowing him to power through any fight like it's nothing. The second ability that Issac has is that he has mental forditude like no other and not only will he never give up and remain focused, he is immune to psychic intrusion. He also has a regenerative ability, allowing him to heal far faster from mild-to-moderate injuries and saving him from severe injuries. For example, he can heal from most broken bones in a week, and in a few hours, a deep gash would have closed. Issac's stamina is also enhanced and allows him to go for hours at a time (hmmmyes).
I also wrote up various Joint-Casting concepts based off of conversations on discord and ideas... these are not final and I'm willing to make edits.
In addition, you all are more than welcome to write some of your own. And by that I mean I want you all to do it.
Forest Fire ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Linqian Han, and Britney, where the two of them put their Red Lux together for this potent Spell. In Forest-Fire, the two of them create a massive forest at the target area... which, shortly after, ignites into flames, becoming a mighty forest fire that will trap them if they do not escape in time. .
The Pink Lotus Blossoms ⫻ A Joint-Cast between "Edict" Devola, and Britney, and a simple combination of their two affinities into one potent effect. The Pink Lotus Blossoms creates several glowing pink plants in the environment, which blossom and release a soothing glow. However, anyone in the vicinity of these plants is affected by an Emotion-altering aura, amplified by the Joint Cast, which bypasses Emotional-Fields. For example, the flowers can exude an aura of intense fear to scare someone off, or they can create an aura of overwhelming. Britney and Edict must decide on what emotion these flowers exude and have to be in harmony when this is Joint-Casted or else the flowers will immediately wither and rot away. .
Forest Glyph ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Britney and Lynette Domínguez, where the two of them create a glowing Glyph on the ground in the shape of a tree... and in the radius of this Glyph, the two of them gain incredibly potent Floramancy, as Lynette's Orange-Lux gives it a potent boost.
The Reaper Storm ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Drake Blackmore, and Jack Hawthorne... despite their differences, they put their Luxes together to create a potent spell that Drake describes as a "Super-Mode." Drake creates a Scythe made out of lightning similar to his Electric-Arsenal spells; however, instead of being a blue color, this Scythe is made out of black lightning. This Scythe strikes incredibly fast with the boost it gains from their combined Purple-Lux, and it is supernaturally sharp - cutting through steel as if it were paper mache. However, it also increases Drake's flight spell to make him incredibly fast and briefly colors all of his lightning spells black. .
Phantom-Blade ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Drake and Stormy-Carson, infusing his electric weaponry with Drake's Voltblade. This Joint Cast creates a typical Voltblade (or alternately, Voltbuster), except the lightning is a wispy green color similar to Stormy's auras. This blade typically functions like Drake's electric weaponry (It's solid, shocks foes, etc.), except it cleaves through Apparitions, weakening their abstractions and causing them immense damage. Even the strongest Apparition falls before the Phantom-Blade, and it can damage Apparitions inside of Adjoined and Abscised. .
Barrier-Storm ⫻ A joint-cast between Drake Blackmore and Stormy Carson that turns Stormy's shields into a force of raw destruction. Ultizing their Luxes, Drake and Stormy create a raw and destructive tornado out of razor-sharp, spinning barriers that travel a short distance before disappearing. In that short time, the Barrier Storm can ravage even the strongest of foes and can leave untold destruction on a battlefield; however, it must be used wisely. .
Penetration ⫻ A potent Joint-Cast between Drake Blackmore, and Linqian Han... with a very amusing, yet fitting, name. Both of them stand side-by-side and stick their hands out, aiming them at the target, and using their Red-Lux, create a blast of burning-hot energy that is hot enough to burn through most metals instantly and penetrate most magical barriers. .
Doomsday ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Kenshiro Murakin, and Drake, and their ultimate weapon if cast successfully. It is a potent orb of plasma that is several shades of blue and grows larger and larger as the Joint-Cast goes on. In addition, using both of their Purple-Lux, it telekinetically pulls anything towards it, bypassing Emotional-Fields, like the gravitational pull of a planet. It gets stronger the closer to it an object or person gets, to the point where it will be impossible for the fastest Paranormals to escape. .
Thunder-Dragon ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Drake and Aislin Rose... a Spell that combines their Red-Lux, and utilizes Drake's Purple-Lux, and Aislin's Gold Lux. When cast, a powerful telekinetic effect hits the environment that yanks objects off the ground, from small objects to heavy ones like entire cars - it will even begin to pull objects apart if needed. This telekinesis builds a giant dragon out of anything, and once it is complete, it will electrify and become a massive floating dragon that the two will ride upon and fly around. Using their Red Lux, they can guide dangerous electrical attacks as they rain hell from above. .
Portal of Bravery ⫻ A Joint-Cast between all four Blackmore siblings, personally taught to them by their father Adam. All four Blackmore siblings stand in a circle, aiming their hands at the center and channeling their Purple Lux to create a massive portal that looms over the environment. This portal leads to a realm of nothing but white and fires an incredibly massive and potent blast of white energy that is strong enough to make the Stygian Snake retreat after a lengthy encounter. The Portal to Bravery is one of the most potent Joint Cast in the Old Coven; however, it requires all four Blackmore siblings, and Charles lives in Miami, so it's impossible for the Blackmore siblings to cast it. .
Healing-Storm ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Drake and his now-deceased wife, Jade. It was created during the battle with the Stygian Snake, and the two of them together joined hands to alter the weather conditions to create a localized lightning storm. However, this isn't a regular lightning storm, but green-colored lightning will rain down on an area... healing everyone in the vicinity of the strike. This Joint-Cast is very unpredictable, but it was capable of healing the Old Coven during their longer engagements with the Stygian Snake.
The-Magical-Mecha-Spider! ⫻ A Joint-Cast between Lisa Turner, Ella Brooks, and Saskia Otten., creating a colossal metal spider that the three of them pilot like some type of weird mecha. When the three of them get together, Lisa summons a special swarm of metal spiders imbued with Ella's Orange Lux that build the Mecha's frame and Saskia creates a massive armor made out of blood around it. When its complete, the Mecha-Spider is enormous, at thirty feet tall, and very odd yet menacing. Each girl operates a different function within the Mecha-Spider: Lisa controls the spider's movement and repairing it, Ella manages the offensive systems, allowing the Mecha-Spider to fire a powerful beam of light, and Saskia handles the defensive systems, controlling the Blood Armor and other projectiles. Saskia controls a cache of "blood missiles" stored within the spider's legs, these missiles are launched at enemies, exploding into a mass of "Blood Bullets" that shoot in all directions. When the Spider is damaged, Lisa deploys a special team of spiders that weave metal like silk. Despite The-Magical-Mecha-Spider!'s potential, it is only capable of being maintained for thirty minutes before it falls apart, and the girls will not be able to use it for the rest of the day. .
The-Discombobulate-Healing-Field! ⫻ Yet another Joint-Cast between Lisa Turner, Ella Brooks, and Saskia Otten, designed in the Old Coven to create a massive healing field in the fight against the Stygian Snake. The three girls stand in a triangle, aiming their hands at the center of the triangle, combining their unique Lux types to form a healing zone that is a testament to their diametric personalities. The field is a potent source of regenerative energy, but it also has a disturbing aspect, but all three of them not only combine their Green-Lux but insert a different aspect of their personality. Ella provides a source of bright, rainbow-colored light that illuminates the entire area with a vibrant glow and otherwise does nothing. Throughout the radius of the field, small spiders made out of blood are automatically summoned and home in on anybody nearby. Once they reach their target, they immediately burrow into their skin and release a healing compound that promotes speedy healing. The longer they remain in the field, the more of these spiders will burrow into their skin, and the trio can keep the healing field going as long as they stand in a triangle. .
The All-Knowing Spider ⫻ The All-Knowing Spider is a Joint-Cast between Kari and Lisa that requires the two to hold hands, close their eyes, and focus - creating a gigantic glowing-white spider. Once the Spider is created, it creates glowing white webs in its environment, which act as a sort of information superhighway that absorbs the information in the surrounding area. As the spider expands its web, it gathers more and more information. Initially, it perceives immediate details such as that have recently taken place, notable objects, and any being present. As the spider's web expands, it begins to gain deeper insights, such as hidden rooms, detect any recent usage of Abstractions, activity patterns (such as paths and routines of beings within its range), etc. After an extended period, the All-Knowing Spider reaches its full potential, gaining near-omniscient knowledge of the entire area, giving it near-infinite information about the area it is in. By touching the Spider, Lisa, and Kari establish a link between themselves and the spider and gain all the information that it collects. However, they have to be very careful, or else they will face an information overload and have to absorb the information in short bursts. The All-Knowing Spider has plenty of useless information about their current that they will have to also process. This spider is the size of a small house, and the two can telepathically command it, but they have to work together in order to move it. However, the Spider is incredibly slow, and by leaving the area it will lose all the information that it has gathered as the webs will disappear. The All-Knowing Spider is also completely defenseless. .
Trillion-Eyes ⫻ A powerful observation tool that requires Kari and Lisa to Joint-Cast. To cast, the two must hold hands and touch foreheads, causing a white light to travel from Kari to Lisa... temporarily turning each of Lisa's spiders into a miniature Observation-Point. Each spider minion gains a miniature observation point, enabling Kari to see and hear through them as Lisa commands them. Thus, this spell requires cohesion between Lisa and Kari as the former has to position them carefully to maximize their effectiveness. Given Lisa's ability to summon thousands of spiders at a time, this allows them to create an expansive network. However, the more spiders that are used, the more strain it places on Kari's mind, potentially leading to information overload. To lessen this risk, Kari can choose to focus on specific observation points at a time and filter the information she receives. .
Prismatic Swarm ⫻ Or "Crack Spiders", as Lisa likes to call them, is a Joint-Cast between Lisa and Ella that imbues Lisa's spider minions with Ella's Prismatic lights. The Joint-Cast begins with Lisa summoning her spiders and Ella imbues them, making them glow with pulsating multi-colored waves of light. With this imbueing, the spiders are far faster, stronger, and tougher for a short period of time, which can make all the difference in confrontations.
Lisa shouted, chasing after Ella with her hands outstretched.
"NO, IT’S MINE!"
Ella yelled back, jumping between the beds with the laptop in her arms. It was playing some anime, which Ella seemed to be trying to watch while running away from Lisa.
Saskia watched all of this from the desk chair, feeling her remaining sanity quickly slipping away. She couldn’t handle this. Lisa had been chasing Ella around for at least five minutes! But it felt like a century! Her head hurt.
"Ooo, some sweetheart candy, and lollipops!" Ella said cheerfully, still running away from Lisa.
”... Don’t make me get out the spiders!” Lisa shouted.
"Not the spiders!" Ella screamed.
Saskia rolled their eyes. Whatever. She’d just buy a bunch of chocolate, and whatever was most pink from the vending machine, with the ten dollar bill she had in her pocket. She quietly left the room… without a keycard, but eh, they’d probably let her in. There wasn’t a vending machine on their floor, which was annoying… but meant she could be out for longer. She hummed to herself as she walked down the corridor towards the elevator- swiveling around it and going down the stairs instead.
She didn’t like feeling trapped. And it was nice and quiet here.
Down on the ground floor, it wasn’t that long of a walk to a vending machine. It had pitiful options, and absolutely nothing that would fit Ella’s cuteness criteria, but whatever. She pulled out the crumpled ten dollar note (haha British) as she thought about what to get.
A woman—a tall Caucasian lady with long brown hair—wearing jeans and a white button-up—walked up and seemingly walked by…
… However, Saskia felt what had to be a pistol press against the back of her head as the woman came to a stop. “Saskia Otten,” She said, “You are going to follow my instructions to the letter, or I will blow your head off, then your friends are next.”
She pressed the pistol harder against the back of her head, then said, “… Are we clear?”
"... Clear," Saskia said without any change in expression, slowly putting her hands up. Her gaze stayed fixed on the vending machine, and the chocolate she wasn’t going to get to eat. She felt a little sad. "I’m very obedient."
The woman stuck her hand out, “Jewelry, accessories, whatever, put them all in my hand.”
Saskia sighed, because it was an absolute pain. They took off their four rings, multiple bracelets (including their channeler), and a chain necklace. They then gestured to their four piercings. "Do you want my earrings too?"
She pressed the pistol even harder against her head. “All of it.”
"Alright," Saskia rolled her eyes, reaching up to take out the four earrings and put them in her hand. "There you go."
The mysterious lady put it all in her pocket, “… Your channeler is in there, right?”
"Yeah, it's the death note bracelet," they said as if she'd know which one that was.
The woman quickly shuffled through her pocket until she found it. However, with the bracelet around her finger, she patted Saskia down. The first thing she pulled out was Saskia’s knife, and the next thing she pulled out was Saskia’s phone. She dropped them both to the ground and kicked them under the vending machine.
“... You can get those back later,” She softly said. “Now you are going to to turn to the left, and walk down the stairs until we get to the ground level. Then we are going out through a side door, where a car will be waiting for us.”
She explained,
“That meeting you interrupted the other day… Those people want to have a talk with you.”
”Oh, how nice," was all Saskia said. It made sense. The other group, Dollhouse, was dangerous. Of course they wouldn't be happy about them interrupting.
Saskia did exactly as the woman had said, going back to the stairwell and walking down the stairs to the ground floor. She pushed through the side door and took a deep breath of the outdoor air it felt like she'd not felt in a long time. Being stuck in a room with Ella and Lisa had that effect. She then squinted, looking for the car she was going to be shoved into.
A black Cadillac Escalade pulled up, and the woman stepped in front of Saskia, keeping the pistol aimed at her, and threw the door open.
“Get in.”
”I'm not going to run, you can put the gun down," Saskia rolled their eyes. After all… this was the most fun she'd had since laying low again. Should she be scared? Definitely. Was she? Not right now.
She got in the car very calmly, immediately going to do her seatbelt. Safety was very important. ”So… what torture methods are you planning to use on me?"
“… Hopefully none,” Shayton sat in the front seat, with both hands on the wheel.
“What do we think we are?” The woman asked as she got in next to Saskia. Still aiming the gun at her. “Animals?”
The woman’s body changed, changing shape as if she was a liquid. When she finished the transformation she looked the exact same as that woman who accompanied the Dollhouse leadership in the meeting.
“We’re better than that,” Shayton said.
The woman smiled, “… Are we?”
“Boss isn’t that pissed anyway,” Shayton shrugged as he hit the gas pedal and started driving. “So that’s one thing you have in your favor.”
”Aw, I was looking forward to it," Saskia said in a tone that made it really difficult to tell if they were joking or not. They looked out the window for a moment, then back at the gun. ”Is that for intimidation? I'm already in the car. I'm not jumping out without my channeller. Do you know how hard it is to find that bracelet now?"
She paused. ”Shouldn't you blindfold me so I don't know where we're going?"
“One, you can use magic without a channeler, so we’re making sure you don’t try anything funny, and two, it doesn’t matter either way,” The woman kept her eyes on Saskia. “Now, I have a question for you, Saskia Otten…”
She narrowed her eyes and asked.
“SO GA, does that ring a bell at all?” She raised an eyebrow.
”No," Saskia tilted their head, eyes narrowing slightly. SO GA… was it some kind of code? SO were her initials, but why? ”Should it?"
“… That’s your name on their little memorial,” The woman said. “I have always been interested in the work of the Sycamore Tree Coven… I personally confirmed the deaths of every name on that memorial, including your three litle friends. So...”
She tilted her head, “... Why are you here? Are you just a shapeshifter assuming Saskia Otten’s identity?”
Oh. Of course, there was a memorial. If this woman could connect that to her specifically… she must know quite a lot. Why even bother kidnapping her?
”No shapeshifter could replicate my incredible wit," Saskia said in an incredibly dull tone. ”I’m the same Saskia on that memorial and I'm here because I really love killing shitty bastards."
They then pointed a finger at the woman, very bluntly saying, ”But who are you? I don't recognise you."
“You wouldn’t,” the woman answered. "My name is Shaquita Walker. I am a Green-Lux user just like you.”
She paused, “Green-Lux doesn't let you come back to life and the Hound gets pissy about resurrections. So how did you come back?”
"The Hound himself brought me back," Saskia shrugged. There weren't exactly any other reasons she could give or come up with, especially to another Green-Lux user. From what she remembered, even Black-Lux couldn't properly resurrect someone. ”He wouldn't get pissed at himself. That's all I know."
“Bullshit,” Shaquita said.
“... I have a feeling she’s not lying.”
“Stay out of this, Shayton,” Shaquita answered, looking to the front seat.
“Fine.” Shayton shrugged.
“... Why did the Hound bring you back?” Shaquita asked. “I did extensive research on your Coven, and there were far better options for him to revive than you.” She narrowed her eyes.
"Wow, that hurts," Saskia said, holding a hand to her chest. She didn’t look particularly upset. "You’re right, we weren’t the best. Someone called in a favour. He wouldn’t say anymore, believe me or not. Feel free to torture me to prove it."
“I might,” Shaquita said.
The car eventually, seemingly, left the bounds of Mirage Springs and drove into the Nevada desert. However, the SUV pulled into the parking lot of an abandoned gas station.
“Can you get the door, Shayton?” Shaquita asked as she pulled out her phone with her free hand. As asked, Shayton got out of the car and opened it, staring at Saskia as he said,
“... Get out.”
”Ohh, are there any vending machines here?" Saskia asked as she got out, hands stuffed into her trouser pockets. She looked around and grimaced. The desert was not for her. "I hope you’re not planning to leave me here."
“Shut up,” Shaquita said as she got out of the car and pulled out her cell phone. She lowered her pistol…
“... You’re not getting away from Shayton if you try anything funny,” Shaquita said as she put the cell phone to her ear. “We’re at the spot.”
Then hung up the phone. A few moments later, a swirling purple portal opened up in front of them. Shaquita pointed at it.
Wow, these guys were really boring. Maybe this wasn’t going to be the fun break from their two friends fighting that Saskia thought it was. They shrugged, and stepped through the portal. They were greeted to a dark room… The portal closed behind them.
The light switched on.
The first thing Saskia saw was Luis and Henrich.
”... HOWDY, MOTHERFUCKER!”
Natalie screamed as she bashed Saskia in the face with the butt of an AK-47, knocking her out completely.
“... I had the situation under control,” Shaquita could be heard saying. “There was no need to do that.”
“‘Under control’?” Natalie snorted. “Bitch had free reign to do whatever she wanted to!”
“... Is that also why you felt the need to strip her naked?” Shayton said.
“Motherfucker you saw that other bitch!” Natalie shouted. “You know! The one that had the fire demon sealed in her panties!? I’m not taking chances.”
“... She’s waking up,” Saskia heard the cold whisper of Heinrich.
“Ooooooooooh!” Natalie laughed, as she turned towards Saskia, “Rise n’ shine, lil’ bitch!”
Saskia was, like they said, completely nude, with their hands binded by chains - which were hanging them from the ceiling. Natalie walked over to Saskia and said, “... How’s it hangin’?” She laughed.
Saskia slowly opened their eyes, squinting. Fuck, their head hurt. Didn’t seem to be bleeding. They were much more bothered by their lack of clothes than anything else- a hint of discomfort crossed their cold eyes.
”It’s just great," they intoned, twisting their wrists to check the chains. Of course, they could actually get out of them if they really wanted to by breaking their wrists… But that wasn’t worth it. ”Shame is an interesting form of torture. Effective. What else do you have planned?"
They almost seemed… excited?
“Well,” Natalie laughed, putting her hands in front of her and smiling like she was containing laughter. “For starters, we’re going to figure out why the fuck you thought it was cute to interrupt our million-dollar deal!”
“Then we’re going to figure out what you can do to make it up to us,” Luis said, leaning against a nightstand with his arms crossed.
“That too,” Natalie said, before she walked over to Saskia, grabbed her side, and gave her a little spin. “So… let’s get to know each other…”
”Righhhhhtttt," Saskia said, voice elongated with the spin. They winced slightly. It would be more fun if they got out really torture devices… ah well. ”Well, my name’s Saskia Otten. I was dead for ten years. Bled to death, really fun. I’d honestly recommend it if you want a once in a lifetime experience."
“Been there, done that,” Luis rolled his eyes.
They shrugged as best they could. ”It was less about you, more about the other side."
“Oh, you mean those Society retards?” Natalie laughed. “I mean, I don’t like them either, but they got money and resources. So we make due.”
“I’m still trying to figure out why you’re back,” Shaquita said, narrowing her eyes and putting a hand on her hip.
Luis smiled.
“... Even if she doesn’t tell us, time will tell,” He answered.
“Not important!” Natalie said as she walked up to Saskia, and squeezed her lips with her thumb and index finger. “Lemme tell you about us, sweetheart.” She laughed, raising a finger to her face.
“Dollhouse? Unlike those Society dumbasses, we don’t fuck around!” Natalie laughed. “Oh! Let me ask ya’ a question! Take a guess on how we found you so easily?”
”He," Saskia looked at Shayton, ”injected one of my friends with a tracker. Or maybe both- it’s not something that’ll kill them, is it?"
“Bingo!” Natalie laughed, then her expression went flat. “... Sort of.” She shrugged.
“... I slipped it in your two little girlfriends' pockets,” Shayton piped up. “Neither of you noticed.”
”They’re too busy fighting over a laptop," Saskia muttered. It wasn't like she'd felt up Lisa and Ella since the fight.
Luis pushed off the nightstand, and folded his arms behind his back, “But, we can forget about this… It's not like we can’t meet the Society later.” He spoke as he walked over to Saskia.
“How about we make a deal?” He said before he spun Saskia.
“Will this deal involve putting her clothes back on?” Shayton tilted his head.
“Why are you acting like you ain't seen a naked bitch?” Natalie laughed.
”I would appreciate clothes being part of the deal," Saskia said drily. ”Even a sheet. But sure, let me hear this deal."
“Maybe if you accept,” Natalie scoffed.
Luis clapped both of his hands together.
“We assist you…” Luis grinned. “... In your fight against the Society.”
”Oh?" Saskia tilted their head. That did sound like a good deal, on the surface. She was sure Ella would take it immediately if offered. ”And what do I do in return?"
They were silent.
“Eliminate Morningstar!” Natalie shouted. “It's that easy.”
”... Huh?" Saskia's eyes widened just slightly. That seemed too easy. ”What’s the catch."
“Well, how do I say there is no catch?” Natalie tilted her head. “Baaaaaaaaasically, Morningstar? He’s bad news. And while we are scumbags: at least we won’t lie to your face.”
"He is awful," Saskia agreed. She didn't really trust them - she wasn't the trusting sort. But they needed help with Morningstar, and if they didn't kill him they'd be dead again anyway. Plus this lot could've very easily killed her. "We plan to kill him anyway, so that's an easy deal to agree with- assuming there's no catches. And you keep my friends out of it."
Her lips then twisted down into an almost mournful look. "I lost the drawing of what we plan to do to Morningstar, it was very good… Maybe I can recreate it?"
“Whatever you plan on doing,” Shayton said. “Make sure it is solid.”
“We have something that can turn the tide in your little fight,” Natalie said, nodding her head at Shaquita - who walked out of the room for a moment, and then came back with a suitcase, which she opened and Natalie put on a thick leather glove, before she pulled out a orange gem wrapped in a necklace, and held it with her thumb and index finger. “This is just a random ass rock. Nothing important about it. It’s definitely not the incredibly powerful and dangerous Orange Stone.”
”Right, so normal you need a thick glove to hold it," Saskia said drily. They narrowed their eyes at it. Whatever it was, they'd take it and use it because they needed to… but they definitely wouldn't let Ella or Lisa touch it. For their safety. "Orange Stone as in orange lux, abstraction boosting? Or does it do something else?"
“It makes your abstraction sooooooo much stronger, like you might be able to topple buildings,” Natalie said. “Except… if you use it too much, you’ll become consumed by your abstraction.”
She grinned, “So, use it wisely. Lest you want to become a rampaging monster.”
”I see, sounds fun, I've always wanted to be a monster," Saskia said nonchalantly. She planned to use it very carefully, though. And she definitely wasn’t going to give it to the other two. If anyone was going to risk their sanity, it should be her. ”But of course, I’ll use it wisely… to kill Morningstar."
They then looked up at the chains still around their wrists. ”Since we’ve made a deal, can I get out of these? And get some clothes. Ah, if you want to see something fun, I can get out myself."
“We got you,” Natalie said, before turning to her bodyguard. “... Shaquita!”
The silent woman stuck her hand out, and a bladed tendril made out of flesh came out of her hand, and sliced through the chains, letting Saskia drop to the ground. Shayton walked over, holding her clothes neatly folded, and presented it to them.
“I'm sorry about that,” Shayton said. :The bosses wanted to make sure you weren’t hiding any artifacts.”
Natalie spun the Orange Stone around her finger. “Before we give this to you, two things!”
She raised one finger, “One, this conversation never happened. You never got this from us. Where would you have gotten this from? Who the fuck knows! Figure it out.”
Then she raised a second finger, “And two, when Morningstar is defeated. You return this to us… we’ll find you.” She smiled.
”You better be quick about it, the Hound might want us back right after," Saskia shrugged. They very quickly got dressed, immediately feeling more comfortable… if a bit disappointed that this talk had been more boring than they expected. The only cool thing was the bladed flesh tendril at the end. ”Agreed. Making something up is easy… ah, do I get my Channeler back too?"
Shaquita dug into her pocket and threw the Death Note bracelet at Saskia.
Saskia caught it and put it on. They twirled it around their wrist a couple of times. All good, still their Channeler. ”It was nice meeting you all, even if you could do with better methods of torture. If you'd been trying to get me to talk you wouldn't have gotten anywhere."
Natalie laughed as she glanced at Heinrich.
“Oh, we could have gotten you to talk, sugar,” Natalie laughed. As a swirling purple portal appeared behind Saskia, Luis scribbled something on a notepad. Then he shoved it into Saskia’s hand. Then Natalie handed her The Orange Stone.
Then Natalie shoved Saskia through the portal.
“... Hugs and kisses!” Natalie shouted. Before the portal closed, and Saskia was right outside the Holiday Inn where they took them.
Saskia sighed. She put the necklace around her neck and under her shirt, and looked at the note. An address… with a handy note that it was Morningstar's lair. Handy, but a bit of a pain to explain. She shoved it back in her pocket and headed inside. She went to the vending machine first, collecting her phone and knife. Then… she bought the chocolate bar she'd been really craving. Munching it, she went back up to her floor. Ah. She didn't have a key card.
With another sigh, Saskia loudly knocked on the door.
Lisa opened the door… the laptop in one hand. And Ella bonded and gagged with spiderwebs in the background. Lisa smiled.
”... Where were you! We were worried sick! Did you get lost?! Did you cut yourself on all that edge again?!”
Saskia looked past Lisa to the bound Ella, then back at her as if it was nothing strange, stepping into the room. "Yes, I lost so much blood that I got dizzy and fell over near the vending machine. When I came too I had this mysterious stone and handy note on me."
She pulled out the address and showed the Orange Stone.
”Oooooooooooooooh!” Lisa looked on with wonder. ”... What is it?”
"Well I feel stronger with it on, so an abstraction booster, maybe," Saskia shrugged. "Finders keepers, so it's mine."
”Well, sure!” Lisa shrugged, before she grinned, looking over her shoulder at Ella. ”Let’s watch anime alllllllllllllllll night long! But with our headphones on, so Ella can’t hear it!”
Saskia nodded with a small, evil smile. "Perfect, I know just the one… it's got loads of gore. Very fun."
Ella struggled in the background, eyes filled with despair.
Drake screamed as he was slammed to the ground. It felt like his entire spinal cord was about to shoot out of his ass at four-hundred miles per hour. Like it felt like he was going to break in half under Sully's giant ass body. It was a conscious effort to not electrocute him, but as stupid as he was right now, he couldn't do that to the homie! Sully's large and sweaty body was on top of him, pinning him down; it felt like the Old Coven for a second! However, after a second, Drake came to.
”... Get off me, you big motherfucker! Jesus! You trying to kill your boy!?” Drake bitched and moaned until Sully finally got up off of him. Thus, Drake shook his head and then dusted himself off. He didn't know where his sunglasses flew off, but he had to complain some mo,re, ”... And this is my favorite jacket, too!”
Drake scanned the ground and found his sunglasses in some leaves. He picked them up and cleaned them with his shirt (he was doing laundry tonight anyway) before putting them back on his face. Stormy and Sully were defending Luna, despite it all, and it was pissing Drake the fuck off. Really? These two would instead turn their back on the squad for a literal traitor?! The time after the Stygian Snake made them soft and foolish, but not Drake. At least Tayla - who he knew didn't like him - had the sense to take his side.
"I think we would've caught Father Wolf sooner if it was this easy to capture her,"
”... Let me repeat myself since the last time didn't land,” Drake shook his head, trying his best not to look like he was about to attack again. Sully? Drake could be without magic, but Stormy? He was a whole-ass powerhouse, and Drake didn't have many tricks to counter his own other than outmaneuvering him outright. ”... There are different groups out here we can't fuck around when we're dealing with them.”
“You fucked off and left this coven in ruins; you have no right to say anything about trust and not to trust. You think I don't know about your habits when you fell away? Huh?!”
”Bet you think murder, extortion, and whatever the fuck else your corny-ass mob does is a 'Good habit', right?” Drake laughed, crossing his arms. He ignored the part about Tayla because whatever she did, that's in the past, and he hoped she'd be a better person now. ”And you do realize you're basically admitting you've really been stalking us, right? And you want us to trust you.”
He shook his head before he looked at Stormy, ”I was wrong, Storm-man. There's no way this idiot is Father Wolf.”
“This isn't fucking fair. I'm just trying to help you. Don't you know I have friends that can help with your little problem?”
“And Luna, while you should’ve just come up to the house instead of hiding in the bushes like a bashful little wallflower, it’s my bad that Drake ended up giving you the lightning lasso. We got a little riled up back there. Hell, I thought you were Tayl-uhhhh, anyway, look, I’m sure this is all just some big misunderstanding that we’ll all be laughing about in minutes. So why don’t we all go back inside and carry out this conversation where there’s a nice, comfy sofa and Aislin’s bong?”
"I know you've been drinking a little too much if you think taking her back to the house is a good idea. Didn't I just say she's off? That she has malicious intent? He shocked her ass for a reason. Let's not pretend she isn't dangerous just because we can defend ourselves. We shouldn't invite trouble. We have enough going on as is. Tsukino, fuck off back to your gang and forget we ever existed."
Drake shook his head at Sully. The dude has been huffing the same shit Auri has, hasn't he? Sunshine and friendship don't rule the world, and Drake was not going to trust Luna in any capacity even if Auri listens to her.
”Look, Luna, we don't want your help. You weren't trustworthy ten years ago, and you're even less trustworthy now,” Drake said, lowering his head and then shaking it. ”Fedboy was one thing, but I'm not going to stand by here and let you worm your way back in here.”
He glanced at Tayla before he turned to Luna and pointed at her, ”So... Turn your wings on, fly away, and never come back. Because if I catch you again, it's-”
That was when everyone at Kari's house was pulled into a Recollection...
”... Oh God, not again!” Drake shouted.
Recollection: The 8th Street Coven.
Interactions: None.
Kari's House. During Kari's funeral.
The Recollection began…
During Kari Wilson’s funeral… her house was peaceful. The warmth of the halls was still there despite its two inhabitants' unfortunate and tragic deaths. A few family members of Kari went through the place, but the plans were not to put the house up for sale, at least for now. So, it remained unperturbed, perhaps out of some form of honor of Kari’s memory.
A memory that was spat upon when an almost heavenly bright yellow portal exploded open in the main hall, right behind the front door. The first person to step through was Emily G. Reed herself; she stepped through and put her hands on her hips as she looked over her shoulder… as the rest of 8th Street came through the portal.
“Disturb as little as possible,” Emily commanded. “Remember… we were never here.”
8th St went to work as Emily remained near Vashti, then shouted, “Find Kari’s notes! You-know-who is paying big money for them!”
As everyone scattered, Emily turned to Vashti and crossed her arms, smiling.
“... It’s a real shame what happened to that slut, Kari, ain’t it?” Emily asked, holding back laughter. “She should have taken my offer while she had the chance! Maybe her stupid ass would still be alive!”
“Huh?” said Vashti, popping her head out of the closet she was rummaging through with a long knitted coat in her hand.
“Oh, yeah, bro. Like, major bummer,” said Vashti somberly as she began to snake her arms through the sleeves of the coat. An excited squeal erupted from her mouth as she did a little spin and flashed the inside of the coat to Emily as if she were selling stolen watches. “Look at these pockets! They’re huge!” Another excited gasp burst forth as she grabbed around to try to find a nonexistent tag. “I think this is homemade!”
“… Vashti, we’re not supposed to leave any evidence we were here,” Emily facepalmed. “… Put that ratty coat back, you’re about to burst out of it anyway!”
“Ffffffine.” Vashti threw her head back with a sigh and marched back to the closet like a tin soldier. After a struggle to get her arms out of the sleeves she slung it over a hanger, which it promptly fell off of the moment she shut the closet door. “But have you not watched a true crime show, dude? Nobody’s even wearing gloves. We’re leaving evidence all over.”
Vashti began drumming her fingers against anything within reach to emphasize her point
“… I mean evidence as in if any of Kari's thug family comes in, there’s no obvious signs someone was rummaging through here,” Emily crossed her arms then rolled her eyes.
“I thought Kari’s family was mostly social workers,” said Vashti, thumbing through a stack of unopened mail left on the entrance table. She held up a piece of mail addressed to Elsa Conner over her shoulder. “Oh man, do you know what’s fucked up, bro? Kari probably knew when Elsa was gonna eat it. I wonder if she was too scared to tell her. Wow, how tragic.”
However, she didn’t sound too upset about it. If anything she was kind of amused.
“You know, I asked Kari to read our auras a little while ago,” said Vashti, her voice lowering as she looked back at Emily with slitted eyes. “Do you wanna know how much time you have left?”
“I don’t, in fact,” Emily rolled her eyes. “It was probably as accurate as that dumbass Lynn’s “predictions”.” Emily finger-quoted.
Before she smiled and did a little twirl.
“... I’m going to live forever.”
“And get all old and crusty? Yuck!” Vashti made gagging sounds. “I’m trying to leave the hottest corpse possible.”
Maya had run off upstairs immediately, and ended up in the bedroom of one of the two girls. She didn’t know which, she didn’t care which, she just wanted to get shit done so she could get out of her and sleep. She immediately started going through the bedroom drawers- stopping at the second one.
“Holy shit, one of them wore nice as fuck underwear!” Maya pulled out a black, lacy thong with a grin. “This shit is expensive! I bet she hid it in here, too, everyone hides secret stuff in their underwear drawer.”
“What the fuck?! Maya!” Emily shouted as she teleported directly into the bedroom in a burst of flames. “Put that back before you catch herpes or something!”
Maya smirked, holding up the thong and holding it out towards Emily. “Ohhh, Emily, I’m flattered~ You think I don’t have herpes already?”
Emily’s jaw dropped as she stared at Maya in horror.
“... Make sure I never eat anything you cook ever again!” She shouted, pointing at Maya. “... Also, go and see if Greta can make something for that!”
Before she teleported back to Vashti.
“Heh, sucker, I always use protection,” Maya said quietly, smirking. She then shouted, “Hey, Phoebe, want to come try on Kari’s underwear! It looks clean!”
“… Sure!” Phoebe shouted as she ran in and slammed the door shut behind her. “Gaaaaawd damn, these are huge!”
“Oh man, I thought my ass might be big enough to fit in them, but you’re right,” Maya shook her head and raked through the drawer a bit more. She pulled out a nice looking, red lace bra and held it up against herself. “Ooo, maybe this one?”
“Come oooooon, Maya!” Phoebe laughed. “You know that’s way too big for you.”
"It's so hard being small," Maya pouted. "Maybe I could stuff it with some socks…"
“Boss! Boss! Come here!” Carol shouted, and Emily quickly ran back and ended up outside. Outside stood Carol Doyle, and behind her was George with his arms crossed. There was an old tin trash can right next to her. In her hands were the scattered ashes of some burnt papers. Carol had a wide grin as a magic blue tint surrounded them, and time was reversed until they were good as new.
Emily walked over with a smile and grabbed the papers. She laughed, raising it in the air.
“We got it!”
Vashti emerged from the house wearing Kari’s coat again, the pockets now bulging with makeup, hair products, and medications. A patchwork blanket was draped over her shoulders and her eyes blurred behind a pair of thick glasses. She hummed with delight as she sucked on a spoon, a pint of coffee flavored ice cream in her hand.
“Oh thank god,” said Vashti through a mouthful of ice cream. She pushed the glasses up to her forehead, “I think all this searching was giving me a headache.”
“… Put all that shit back!” Emily shouted.
“Here this one’s vanilla. Your favorite, bro,” said Vashti, pulling a pint out of the coat and offering it to Emily as a bribe.
Emily stared at it.
It ignited with Hellfire, turning in a bright red torch with screaming faces. Vashti was so used to Emily’s hair trigger that she didn’t even flinch. She just tossed the flaming ice cream tub up in the sky. It burned to ashes in seconds. She stuck out her tongue like she was trying to catch a snowflake and frowned when all she tasted was ash. What a waste of ice cream.
“I don’t get why you just don’t burn the whole house down,” said Vashti, dumping out some of the contents of her pockets and snapping a finger at a couple of 8th street goons.
“Hey dudes, you heard the boss. Go put this shit back,” she said with a wink. She turned back to Emily, “So what’s in Kari’s manifesto?”
“Oh man, wait, we gotta put shit back?” Maya had just walked out of the house in time to hear what Vashti said. She’d stuffed a whole bunch of makeup products that Vashti hadn’t taken in her bag (and underwear).
Emily’s face went red. Before she politely stated.
“... WHY ARE YOU ALL SO OBSESSED WITH STEALING FROM SOME DEAD SLUT?!”
Emily’s vociferous roar could probably be heard further than she wanted. “Almost every other day, we rob way better people… of way better shit! Kari was just a regular dumb slut! Jesus!”
“It’s wrong to be wasteful, bro…”
“Who gives a fuck!?” Emily shouted. “We’re about to get paid enough so you all can afford shit a million times better than what the whore could afford!”
At this point, Jacqueline and Miranda came out of the house hand-in-hand. They both wore sunglasses and wide-brimmed straw hats (which belonged to Kari). Eating popsicles, they also stole.
“See, even your sisters think it’s a good idea!” Maya pointed to them. “Not like she’s going to use it! Plus, you never let us use the stuff we steal.”
“That’s because you dumbasses like to do dumb shit with it…” Emily facepalmed before shouting, “EVERYONE! Put everything back! We were never here! I don’t care! Put it back!”
“Erm, bud wuddabouda ishream?” asked Vashti through another mouthful of ice cream, looking down at the nearly empty pint in her hand. She swallowed and put her hand to her head in pain at the immediate brain freeze. You even destroyed one, bro. Her family will already know that someone’s been here.”
“Matter fact, just drop it!” Emily said, “Brianna open a portal! Everyone put everything down, I will put it back myself!”
As instructed, everyone put their stolen goods down and Brianna opened a portal. Emily walked over to it and pointed at it.
“Everyone inside!” She shouted.
With some grumbling, 8th St retreated into the portal. However, when Carol stepped through, Emily grabbed her by the shoulder and said,
“Not you, we gotta fix this!”
“Fffffffffuck! I always gotta clean up after you all!” Carol shouted. “Fine…” she rolled her eyes.
In 8th Street’s main hall, Emily had zipped up a bright neon-green rain jacket… heavy-duty that could withstand the storms and prevent Emily from getting wet. All of 8th Street was putting them on, along with a gas mask pouch around their hip. as Emily stood over a large blank sheet of paper that she had over their main hall table. She held a black marker in her hand as she gestured for 8th Street to get closer and announced, “Alright… everyone listen up!”
“What’s all this for?” Miranda asked, her eyebrow raised in curiosity. “Are we going to rob someone again…?” She punctuated her question with a sigh.
“This is our battle plan to put those sluts in their place,” Emily grinned widely. “We’re going to march right up to where those sluts are and take Lila right in front of them to show them how much power they have....”
“And Britney?” Carol piped up… already wearing a gas mask, which muffled her voice.
“... And Britney,” Emily said with a roll of her eyes. “And take that gas mask off!”
“No! It makes me look cool as fuck!” Carol laughed.
“Take. It. Off.” Emily seethed.
“Fine, Jesus…” Carol grumbled as she removed the gas mask and put it back in her pouch.
“Wait, you can’t be serious, Em,” Jacqueline’s face contorted to shock. “You started that!”
“I just made a mistake,” Emily shook her head. “Lila attacked me. Not only that, I got jumped by them when I was walking to the bathroom because I just so happened to have the Chalice on me—oh, that reminds me, we’re coming back with Drake and Kenshiro, too!” She grinned.
“Well, count me out,” Miranda shook her head. “You were in the wrong, and we’re not participating in it.”
“Yeah, count us both out,” Jacqueline said. “If that’s what you want to do today, we want no part of that.”
“Fine,” Emily rolled her eyes. “Before you go, tell us where those sluts are.”
Jacqueline sighed, rolled her eyes, opened the Expert’s Book, and scanned it for a moment before she said,
“... They’re at Kari’s house,” Jacqueline shook her head before she turned and walked off with Miranda in tow. When Jacqueline made it to the door, she stood at it for a moment and said, “Let us know how that goes.” She slammed the door.
Emily didn’t react.
“Everyone of you slams doors, dude. Your parents, I swear,” said Vashti, shaking her head as she rummaged around with her pouch.
“Kari’s house…” She tapped the marker against her chin. “... What are those sluts doing at her house?” She asked out loud.
“Probably taking all the cool stuff we left, bro,” said Vashti, her voice muffled by a gas mask.
Emily facepalmed as Vashti removed the gas mask, using the reflective lenses to check her hair.
“... Vashti,” Emily began, taking her hand from her face. “Have those annoying strippers gotten back to you yet? We need them for our plan.”
“Huh? I thought you wanted me to stop inviting strippers after that last time when Cynthi-ooooooh! You mean V and P? Oh, yeah, totally, let me just check real quick, I definitely remembered to reach out to them. Highest priority, really,” said Vashti as she fumbled with her phone, her thumbs a blur. The swooshing sound effect of a text being sent played through her phone’s speakers. “Oh, weird, no, nothing yet. Don’t worry, I’ll keep them in the loop.”
Vashti nonchalantly tossed her phone onto the table and returned to doodling on her gas mask with a white permanent marker.
“You know it’s funny, bro. Between V and P the names should really be the other way around. What with the…” Vashti made a hole with her finger and poked the marker through it, making a loud popping noise with her mouth. She returned to drawing a tiny cartoon alligator and then paused, turning her head to Emily. “Wait, what were we talking about?”
Emily facepalmed again.
“... Jesus, Christ on a cross, Vashti, I love you, girl, but can we foc-”
Violet screamed as she walked in, wearing a black hoodie… but her exposed legs made it ambiguous whether or not she was wearing anything else. She danced as Pink followed behind her and briefly shook her ass. “It’s been a while, my lovelies!” Violet screamed as she walked. “What’s the haps!?”
“Yaaaaaaaaaaas!” Phoebe laughed as she ran over and hugged Violet. “Where the fuck were you?! You know it’s boring as fuck here without you.”
“Hey, that’s not what you were saying earlier!” Maya complained, scowling at Phoebe.
“We have jobs.”
“Shaking ass isn’t a job,” Phoebe laughed.
“Well, tell that to the people throwing them hundreds, yaaaaaaaaaaaaa!” Violet looked at Emily and Vashti. “... Am I missing something?”
“A gas mask? Emily, what are we doing? I already handled the Lila situation,” said Vashti, kicking her legs up on the uncharted battle plans and rocking back dangerously in her chair. “Do you know how hard it is to catch birds, bro?”
“Vandalizing her house isn’t enough,” Emily answered, “I want her dead!”
“... And Britney, right?” Carol asked, with the gas mask back on.
“... And Britney. Both of them. Dead.”
Vashti stared through Carol with vacant eyes that suddenly widened in panic as her chair began to slip. She barely caught the table's edge with her hand to stop herself from falling. Without a moment of hesitation, she resumed rocking in the chair. Vashti nonchalantly gestured at Violet, “So that's the plan.”
Violet stuck her tongue out and posed, kneeling and putting her hands on her shins.
“That's the plan?!” Maya looked up from filling Phoebe’s gas mask with sand, narrowing her eyes. “I thought we were just going to shout at them, kidnap them, torture them, and then send them back with their tails between their legs.”
Emily facepalmed again.
“... She’s not the plan,” Emily seethed as she pointed at Pink - who also stuck her tongue out, knelt over, and put her hands on her shins. “She’s the plan… the escape plan in case things go south or if Agent Liao forgets our deal….”
Emily shook her head as she leaned over the table with the marker in hand… then quickly bent over and scratched out Vashti’s drawing before she stood up straight and said.
“But, if those sluts are at Kari’s house…” She trailed off, tapping the bottom of the marker against her chin a few times. “Everyone gather around!”
She grinned.
“... I have the perfect plan in store for those sluts. Now, Cynthia, Amy, Nadine....”
Their plotting went on until they were all in agreement on one plan.
Ella screamed as she fell from the balcony, arm outstretched to try and reach Lisa before she disappeared. Her back crashed against the table, muscles spasming as intense pain spread across her back and into her shoulder. She groaned, eyes squeezing shut for a moment. But she didn’t have time to wallow in the pain. She was left alone in a room full of enemies.
With another groan, Ella quickly rolled to the side and off the table, clumsily landing on her feet and into a crouching position. She held her Sailor Moon Wand in a tight grip, completely defensively, while her eyes darted around.
“Ooooooh, Sheer’Khan!” The woman with the long black hair who stood with the Society laughed, turning her head towards the morbidly obese man. “Her friends abandoned her!”
“Contain yourself, Shala,” Sheer’Khan shook his head, and yawned. “Think you can kill her? Ah, I miss Mala’Boolaan already.” He shook his head with another yawn.
“I thought you had this place secure,” The tall man on the side of Dollhouse said.
“We do, Luis,” Sheer’Khan said with another yawn. “Shala, Dr. Cross, just kill her already so we can get this over with. It’s bad enough that Ignatius dragged us all out here.”
Shala laughed as she stood up and exploded into a cloud of pink mist, and when it faded, she was a massive wolf-like creature with wings. She laughed as she lunged forward with a claw cocked back, and slammed it over onto Ella.
Ella jumped to the side, wincing as the claw caught the side of her arm and raked down it. The bright colours of her bracelets (which she was rapidly running out of at the hostel) pooled down into her arms, making her fists a mishmash of bright pinks, purples and blues. She swung a fist, as hard as steel, towards Shala, impacting her chest and breaking a bone. Shala stumbled back for a moment, before roaring, and charging at her with both hands outstretched - briefly coughing up blood.
While this was going on, Dr. Cross pulled out the pike and held it with both hands, as she ran up.
Ella crossed her hands in front of her to block any claws that got near her. She used her prismatic enhanced legs to jump up onto the table - she was outnumbered but maybe being a bit higher could help! She swept out one leg, trying to catch and break the pike. However, upon contact with it… it did nothing. Not even so much as move Dr. Cross, and on impact, Ella felt her abstraction getting weaker.
“... I’ll eat you alive!” Shala shouted as she lunged at Ella, mouth agape, still with a trickle of blood dripping down the side of her lip.
"No thank you!" Ella pulled back her leg, trying not to panic at how noticeably weaker her abstraction was. Her hands and lower arms were duller, and the light on her legs was flickering. She rolled to the side, shoulder hitting the table and smashing a plate, and she flipped off the other side with a wince. She immediately picked up one of the chairs and threw it at Shala, bashing her in the face with it. Shala growled in anger, before she grabbed the table and lifted it up over her head.
“... GO TO HELL, WHORE!”
Shala screamed as she threw the giant table at Ella.
“... We were using that, Shala,” Ignatius sighed from the balcony above. He was leaning up against it, watching the fight. Not only that, Shayton and the mysterious woman were also leaning against it.
”I’m not a whore, I’m a magical girl!" Ella shouted. She quickly crouched, arms in front of her face and legs in front of her stomach - the table smacked right into her, her more vulnerable body parts covered by enhanced arms and legs… But it still hurt like hell! Fuck! Fight through it! She was knocked back and winded… But she had the table for a bit of cover. Ella popped her head over the table, brandishing her channeler to shoot a burning light right towards Shala’s eye… and seared it shut. She loudly screamed and thrashed around as she clutched her face, before she fell onto her back.
This left Ella and Dr. Cross, who simply strafed a circle around Ella, holding that pike, not breaking line of sight.
“Sheer’Khan! Do something!” Dr. Cross shouted, as she continued to walk circles around Ella.
Sheer’Khan yawned. “... I’m perfectly fine watching, thank you very much.”
“... You’re stronger than Mala’Boolaan!” Dr. Cross seethed. “Just flatten her real quick before the rest of those idiots come back!”
Sheer’Khan yawned.
“Who made you the boss?” he replied. “Last I checked, only Ignatius was above us. The rest of the Endless Seven stand on the same level.”
Ella was still peering over the table, from below her nose hidden behind it. She hadn’t expected Shala to go down so easily… maybe winning this was possible! If she ignored how much pain she was in!
”You know, you really shouldn’t boss people around if you’re not in charge! If he doesn’t want to fight, he doesn’t want to fight!" Ella shouted. She moved her hand just a bit above the table, shooting another burning light—this time towards one of Dr. Cross’s hands. It hit her hand, and she winced, keeping her hand on the pike. She fell to one knee and closed her eyes.
“... Shut up and fight!” Dr. Cross screamed as she rushed Ella, and swung at her with the pike. One that would weaken her abstraction.
Shala climbed back to her feet, and sniffed the air for a few moments…
”I don’t want to fight either!" Ella said, weaving and dodging the pike. She didn’t want it to hit her again, but her main attacks required kicking or punching! Instead she just used her still enhanced limbs to more easily dart from side to side.
“... Then you shouldn’t have come here!” Dr. Cross shouted as she took another swing with the pike.
”Well…" Ella didn’t really have anything to say in response to that. She leapt back to avoid the swing, before stepping in and sweeping out a leg in an attempt to kick Dr. Cross’ ankle, making her fall to the side… yet, Dr. Cross held onto the pike tightly. Ella quickly moved around to kick Dr. Cross in the back of the knee, hard. Which made her seethe as she rolled over a few times.
However, Shala charged at Ella like a berserk animal, kicking Dr. Cross away as she slashed her with a wild barrage. One of the slashes hit Ella’s shoulder, claws digging into her flesh and sending blood spilling down her leotard and staining the white with a bright red. She pulled back before they could hit again, punching away the other hand and constantly backing away.
”Hey, you shouldn’t kick your friend!" she shouted as she dodged.
“... DIE!” Shala continued the relentless assault, before throwing herself at Ella with her jaws outstretched, aiming for her neck.
”Not again!" Ella shouted. She threw up her arm to protect her neck, biting down on her lip as Shala’s jaws clamped down on it. Shala then thrashed Ella around like a wild dog, before she slipped from her grasp and went flying across the room. She then roared into the sky.
“... That was a great display,” Ignatius said with a flat expression on his face. “Now kill her.”
Ella slammed into a wall, falling to the floor with a crash. She clenched down her jaw to keep in pained screams, clutching her nearly destroyed arm to her chest and trying to get back onto her feet. Her legs absolutely refused to work. She was screwed. Grimacing, she closed her eyes and held up her hands, a blinding flash emitting from them - all she could do to buy herself time.
“... That won’t do anything to save you!” Shala screamed as she charged Ella.
… However, a glowing coral-pink orb appeared in the middle of the dining room… much larger than the one created before. It exploded in a flash of pink, and it revealed the group of Kimberly, Jordan, Saskia, and Lisa. Not only that, Lisa had created three giant black widow spiders (one of which she was mounted on), equipped with dragonfly wings, and. She had a legion of flying spiders with her.
Her eyes turned towards Shala.
”... GET AWAY FROM HER!” Lisa screamed as she commanded one of the flying black widows to fly towards Shala. She could only glance over her shoulder as the spider wrapped itself around Shala… before she applied the Acid-Burst spell to it. It exploded into a massive blast of acid and chitin shrapnel… which splashed on her. It hit her in the cheek, and completely dissolved it, revealing her teeth on one side of her face. She screamed as it dripped down onto her chest and arm… dissolving flesh in a painful display.
As for Shala? She was absolutely obliterated. Most of the flesh on her body was dissolved while she was still standing, and she hit the ground with a thud… what was left of her. The toxic mixture of dissolved flesh and acid sizzled against the ground as everyone looked on in horror.
“... Hmph,” Ignatius said, “She had no place in not only the Endless Seven, but the Society itself….”
”Lisa, Saskia!" Ella groaned, pushing herself onto her knees. Blood dripped down her arm from where it had been mauled, and she could barely move. ”I’m so… glad to see you…"
"Shit, Lisa, can you use some healing spiders on her?" Saskia asked. Her whole body was covered in a thin layer of blood, bone spear jutting out of her fist. She pulled it back in, running over to Ella to try and help her stand. "C’mon, we’ve got to go."
”... Don’t whine this time!” Lisa shouted, as she flicked some healing spiders onto Ella with both hands.
”You said that about Mala’Boolaan too!” Ella said woozily, pointing a finger up at Ignatius. At least, someone had shit talked Mala’Boolaan when he died. ”They both put up a good fight!"
“Thank you for the show!” Luis shouted as he held the door open to leave. Shayton, Shaquita, we’re out of here.”
With a stoic expression on their faces, the two Dollhouse goons left. Shayton vanished in a burst of speed, and Shaquita, the mysterious woman, hopped off the banister and landed without so much as flinching. She calmly followed behind Luis, Natalie, and Heinrich, as the door closed behind them.
Ignatius shook his head, as he narrowed. “You five are going to leave now before we can catch you, right?”
The spiders bunched up around Lisa, as a Coral-Pink sphere formed around them.
And Ignatius flicked his hand, “... Just go already.”
"Send someone stronger next time!" Ella shouted as she limped into the sphere, leaning heavily on Saskia.
Lisa flipped off Ignatius…
… Before they were all gone.
They appeared back in Kimberly and Jordan’s hotel room, and immediately Kimberly shook her head.
“Well…” She walked over to her bottle of scotch and poured herself a glass. “... That was a disaster.”
”Hey!” Lisa said, ”We took out a member of the Endless Seven!”
“... When the plan was to bug them,” Jordan shook her head as she sat down on the nearby computer chair. “It won’t matter how many of the Endless Seven we kill when they just get replaced.” She shrugged.
"We also ruined their meeting," Saskia pointed out.
”And any replacements will be weaker!” Ella flopped down on the couch, still feeling exhausted even though she’d been healed. She flexed her wrist and created a small ball of colour using a bit from the couch. She frowned as she compared the ball, clearly duller than the sofa’s colour (with a missing white patch). ”One of them can weaken abstractions… I dunno how long this’ll last.”
”I mean…” Lisa twiddled her thumbs, awkwardly looking up at Kimberly then to Jordan. ”We did bug them. Well, not in the annoy kind of way, but my spiders got bugs on each of the Endless Seven.”
“... Wait, you did?!” Jordan said.
“Sweet!” Kimberly threw a fist into the air. “That means we can figure out what Morningstar’s plan is so we can stop them!”
”... Do we have to lay low again?”
“Yes,” Kimberly laughed, “Yes, you do.”
”Aw.”
”More time to catch up on anime!” Ella cheered. Honestly, she was all right with a few days of laying low after that fight.
Saskia frowned, looking Kimberley dead in the eye. "Can I move into your room?"
[center][b]"You're a fine warrior. Call me sentimental..."[/b][/center][table][row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/139ceac154751673f3ae0a9fe3c9db14/tumblr_n5ns5eDSUE1spjmjdo1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/8de527f156d1dcdab59303529f9a2963/tumblr_n5ns5eDSUE1spjmjdo2_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/fdd81701556b497cef877cce8608411e/tumblr_n5ns5eDSUE1spjmjdo3_r1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][/row][row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/f4c53df62090bdfc77fc8d4af49bd3bb/tumblr_mp19k0oeBn1spjmjdo1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/tiUPmOX.png[/img][/center][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/973255b1496b1e15ea88881ee0842923/tumblr_n5ns5eDSUE1spjmjdo4_r2_400.gifv[/img][/cell][/row][row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/92b4cd3f3f69445efc0b66dbf4040d4e/tumblr_mp19k0oeBn1spjmjdo3_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/076f8a0494600005276b223a9c34f4df/tumblr_mp19k0oeBn1spjmjdo4_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/91ef2adb4acfaae1ed6e5882900137f2/tumblr_mp19k0oeBn1spjmjdo2_r1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][/row]
[/table][center][b][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oBfsNh4c_E]"...but I wish we'd met under different circumstances."[/url][/b][/center][hr][hr][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/RKmK4q0.png[/img]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/N7tTd5u.png[/img]
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpOgr4s3GrE[/youtube]
[img]https://i.imgur.com/hFWozfG.png[/img][hr][hr][img]https://i.imgur.com/1efdG4h.png[/img][/center][indent][indent][indent][indent][indent][indent][indent][indent]Currently updating...[/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent][indent][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent][/indent][table][row][/row][row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/f12910313dd47ea9cead1c314f8ab833/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo3_250.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/fe472fa332e424f66ed2837f2eaf23c9/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo4_250.gifv[/img][/cell]
[cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/fb00b50c1dbf289d9140c30a7a332011/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo8_250.gifv[/img][/cell][/row]
[row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/ec26b8c0fcc1da9903b62bf0022ce62c/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo5_250.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/468eaf4ed38d54774f2d3fd269296f74/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo6_250.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/23bf4bb5ad09c631a81860f2f822ccce/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo7_250.gifv[/img][/cell][/row][center][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/30d05b58ba9137c6662a93a96bfa527a/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo2_400.gifv[/img][hr][/center]
[center][b]"I'm a dominant..."[/b][/center][/table][center][hr][b][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v31J3arX5Kg]"... This is my job."[/url][/b]
[img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/e91570ee96f9a973747062884eeea1ce/tumblr_ntbm31BkSa1sznb4xo1_400.gifv[/img][hr][/center][table][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/XFCLhxV.png[/img][/center][row][/row][row][cell][center][b][color=forestgreen]REALLY PUNCHY GUYS[/color][/b]
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[b][@redbaron1234]
[@Kamen Evie]
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[@Drag]
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[@Oddsbod][/b][/center][/cell][cell][center][b][color=forestgreen]THE DISAPPOINTMENT CLUB[/color][/b]
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[@Dragonbud][/b][/center][/cell][cell][center][b][color=forestgreen]OTHER SCRUBS[/color][/b]
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[@silvermist1116][/b][/center][/cell][/row][/table][table][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/GXlptHc.png[/img][/center][row][/row][row][cell][center][b][color=forestgreen]SETTINGS[/color][/b]
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[b][url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/topics/183613-the-tyrant-shell-universe]The Tyrant Shell Universe[/url][/b] - Mechapunk (Mecha and Cyberpunk mixed together).
[b][url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/topics/183624-the-black-fall-universe]The Black Fall Universe[/url][/b] - Modern-Superhuman tale.[/center][/cell][cell][center][b][color=forestgreen]LINKS[/color][/b]
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[b][url=https://discord.gg/4FznNGS]The Collective[/url][/b] - My Discord Server.
[b][url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/topics/183740-the-ghost-lounge-a-1x1-thread-thats-destined-to-go-places-bad-places]The Ghost Lounge[/url][/b] - My 1x1 Thread.
[b][url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/topics/183358-the-ghost-archives]The Ghost Archives[/url][/b] - Character storage.[/center][/cell][/row][/table][table][row][/row][row][cell][img]https://steamuserimages-a.akamaihd.net/ugc/928186361494425545/93DB229F54AD7363FF943FAF9627A2056CE6A354/[/img][/cell][cell][center][img]https://i.imgur.com/wmKBNmF.png[/img][/center][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/aab171d51ab0877e8cb44ef26725c12f/tumblr_mmijotYZ851spjmjdo1_r1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][/row][row][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/a8b92dee73766c54e1c588067f7b05e9/tumblr_mmijotYZ851spjmjdo2_r1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/c6db94e7f43a0116556b31237e9394cb/tumblr_oetl2fk7YA1r9ibuko1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/d85b9d9f883fcf1e71cad4d1b5c574e2/tumblr_oetl2fk7YA1r9ibuko2_400.gifv[/img][/cell][/row][row][cell][/cell][cell][img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/827528918c7f7bf2672681b30b851654/tumblr_otjspp0ccf1u0vn73o1_400.gifv[/img][/cell][cell][img][/img][/cell][/row][/table][center][b][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnvqcSKho5w]"Oh, I'm afraid we have no allies. No allies nor enemies. I love EVERYONE!"[/url][/b][/center][hr]
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