Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

[faileas]

Event Log: June, What Lies Beneath

Down, Down, Down The group leaves on the morning of the 16th, a band consisting of Mirrorbound, Theodore and Sowilo from the Coven, and one of the two returned Wilders to lead the way. The latter three will only be present for the first leg of the journey: from the North Gate to the Northern Outpost by teleporter, then a few hours' hike to the site. A tunnel yawns open, fallen rocks built up around it in mounds. Everyone is offered enchanted lanterns to light the way, and their guide takes them perhaps a mile down before he and the pair from the Coven must part ways with the Mirrorbound. The poorly-lit tunnel leads steadily downward. The way is marked by their gracious hosts to be, with arrows drawn in softly-glowing algae painting the walls so there is no mistaking which way to go; a good thing, because the deeper the party goes, the more tunnels branch off of the largest one, twisting and turning into the dark. It takes some hours to reach a familiar cavern lit with algae and glowing crystals, a herd of the velvet wormipedes idly milling about the small lake and stream that led into town in the dream. Much nicer long boats are set up and waiting to take them deeper, along with respectfully quiet Monster guards to steer them. They take a slightly different route from the dream, but before long, they reach the curtain of grayish green moss that dangles down into the water, stretched across the wide tunnel exit like a membrane. It parts on its own as the boats pass, though beware if you are infected by the Cwyld - it will not allow passage, only reach out long, tough tendrils to try and envelop you, the touch of it burning acid-bright where it is harmless for those uninfected. Past the curtain of strange moss, the cavern city opens up before them, vast and spacious, dimly lit with more algae, crystals, and softly glowing orbs of magic. It's like being plunged into an eternal twilight, somehow soft, cast in gentle colors. The boats bypass the markets this time, drifting farther down a branching stream into the city proper, to dock next to stone platforms. The winding streets and flowing canals branch out all around them with no rhyme or reason, the city sprung up around the natural layout of the caverns rather than the other way around. Buildings are carved out of tall stone spires, the windows and doors covered in fluttering silk, many of which are pulled away so that fascinated locals can peer out at the scene unfolding. The Matriarch herself comes to greet the group, ringed at the back by spear-carrying guards, all Monsters. A tall, long-limbed Arachne woman bearing battle scars and stark white hair, she looks perhaps in her 30s, and speaks with a booming, commanding voice, amplified by a charm. As she speaks, ten Wilders are released from silk rope bonds and nudged to join the Mirrorbound; they're a little roughed up, perhaps, and shaken, but none are seriously injured. A few Monsters also make the rounds, placing copper tokens in the hands of ten individuals. "Welcome, travelers! This meeting was foretold and so it has come to pass. During your stay you will be treated as our honored guests. You may come and go as you please, but we ask that you use the same tunnel you entered through; we have not yet re-secured the other entrances from Cwyld nor the tribes. I would hate for danger to befall you while you are under my care." Her smile is wide, her eight eyes bright, and her teeth are very sharp. "We have prepared temporary residences for your use. I hope you will stay for the celebrations. I look forward to meeting with some of you very soon." Notably, she does not mention the surface where from the Mirrorbound came, and those around her do not ask.

I. The City The Mirrorbound receive mixed reactions from the Underground. Some are fascinated by these visitors personally invited by the Matriarch and allowed past the markets; others are wary and suspicious, believing them to be wolves in sheep's clothing. In the city proper, most passing Monsters are armed, but this doesn't seem to be anything new. Still, step cautiously - plenty do not take well to even unknowing offense and will pick a fight, or may see these guests as easy, weak targets to pickpocket or mug in the dark corners of the twisting streets. The guards only step in if things take a turn for the worse or if the fight is very obviously imbalanced - they step in more for Witches being attacked than Monsters, because they feel Witches require protection more. Still, not all are so unscrupulous: more citizens are delighted to talk, even if they still seem skeptical about a whole world up above. Mirrorbound, as guests of the Matriarch, are given nearly free run of the city, allowed to explore such locations as the marketplace, the library, the shops, the schools (the Arena for Monsters and the Academy for Witches), and the tunnels and caverns outside the protective moss barriers. The only places they (and most locals) are expressly barred from are the Matriarch's audience hall, the upper level of the library, and the guards' barracks. a. The Marketplace The marketplace is much larger than previously thought - it rings the entire city, and stalls spill onto the streets of the inner city as well in a lazy sprawl. There are some shops with actual buildings, but they're fewer and more expensive: alchemy and apothecary shops, a couple of restaurants, a weapons shop or two, nice clothing shops. Most, though, are independent merchants who set up and take down their stalls every day and night. Any number of Underground-sourced foods, clothing, weapons, trinkets, and more can be found at the stalls; they barter, or exchange chips of precious metals and gems, but they'll take cune coins with fascination. The marketplaces are the liveliest areas of the city with Monsters and Witches alike, from all walks of life, mingling and sharing gossip and idle talk. Those who lost items to the burrowing hyenas at the Northern Outpost some months ago should keep an eye out: the hyenas are fairly common down here, serving the roles of pets or working dogs for Underground citizens, and a few merchants deal in more interesting goods. The missing items can be found scattered across some stalls, and the merchants will gleefully tell perusers that these things come from the surface, aren't they fascinating? Don't you want to buy? Luckily, it shouldn't be too hard to get your things back. They'll take all manner of interesting trinkets in trade. b. Library The library is bound to be a popular stop. Monsters get some strange looks if they enter the spire just off the courtyard from the Academy, but they aren't barred from entry; most just feel that reading is for Witches. The building is only two levels - one closed off at the top, guards keeping everyone out, and the rest is just one very tall floor ringed with a spiral of platforms and stairs to access the honeycomb-shaped shelves built into the walls. All their books are written on scrolls of silk, and the librarians bark at patrons to be delicate with them, some are very old. If one has endless time, the scrolls can offer a look at life Underground: historical accounts of past Matriarchs, brave warriors and battles against nomadic tribes or hideous beasts, their history as they know it, scrolls on offensive and defensive magic for Witches, fighting techniques for Monsters, information on their unique flora and creatures that can be found outside the city, and even plenty of fiction - sword and sorcery novels all set in the tunnels and the city. It's just a bit difficult to find what, specifically, you're looking for, because if there's any kind of organization, it only makes sense to the deep-dwelling denizens. Maybe make it a team effort! You'll also need some simple translation spells, because their system of writing is quite different to the common system in Aefenglom; even then, it may not be accurate on older scrolls. c. The Guest Villa Those who choose to spend several days in the Underground are given modest accommodations in a tall stone building. These guest chambers boast gentle lighting, wide beds, backless sofas, potted decorative fungi, and stone furniture. It's... cozy, with humble individual rooms and larger common rooms for gathering. The algae grows in delicate patterns across the walls, pulsing in soft colors. They've gone out of their way to provide what comfort they can, but there aren't enough rooms for everyone to have their own - everyone will need to share with one or two others, so choose someone you can get along with.

II. The Tunnels Mirrorbound are not restricted only to the city. There are many entrances to the cavern where it resides, the openings all covered with sheets of that same gray-green moss; some wider tunnels obviously see more use than other, narrower ones, and the footpath of many Underground denizens is easy enough to trace, the stone worn smooth. The path to the velvet wormipede cavern is one of them; they're raised as livestock, all at once food, transportation, and producers of silk and hide for clothing. This is much the same as the dream. Another well-worn tunnel leads upward to an agricultural center, though, and still more lead out into the wild. They're warned, but not hindered, before they leave for anywhere other than the farms or the livestock cavern; dangers abound in the Underground. Those who do much wandering may notice something going on as well; the guards stationed at each tunnel mouth can often be found talking to each other in low voices about an unknown red algae that seems to be growing on the protective moss. It can be found primarily around the lesser-used tunnels so far, starkly bright against the dull green, and this seems to be a point of concern... a. A Botanist's Dream It's a short walk down a wide, inviting tunnel to reach the place where the city grows fungi and underground plants for food and medicine. Large rats and hyenas both are present to keep opportunist creatures and insects from demolishing the carefully-cultivated beds of rock and soil, and small blind fish swim about in the large pool of shallow water, in which grows something like seaweed. One of their primary sources of food, besides bug and rat, are mushrooms of many sorts - all the types that grow in the farms are edible, though some may be an... acquired taste. The Fauns and Witches who tend the beds are happy to offer samples of anything that can be eaten raw; they're most enthusiastic about a type of spherical mushroom whose cap opens up to reveal what tastes and feels like savory cotton candy, and a type of flat fungi that tastes sweet and fizzy and offers a heightened good mood for an hour after. b. The Wild Underground The lesser used tunnels are a different story. A mile out from the city, Cwyld runs in thick black veins through the stone walls, infecting the sparse plants and many creatures that live out there. Careful not to touch. Infected and uninfected creatures both are highly dangerous to explorers, including stone-burrowing moles with wicked teeth and claws that can cut through metal like butter, vicious white wasps that carry lethal venom, and berserker vampire bats that survive on the blood of other animals and people alike. Some infected fungi give off blindingly-bright flashes when disturbed, while others will cause rashes and blisters on contact. Explorers are warned not to touch anything if they can help it. As well, the nomad tribes roam the less-civilized tunnels and caverns. These are small bands of usually Monsters of different types in mixed groups, though some can be found dragging humans along with them. Nearly all of them are some degree of feral, and plenty bear Cwyld infections in different stages of seriousness. They don't stop to ask questions before they'll attack anyone, including each other, in hopes of robbing them blind and leaving them for dead. As vicious and quick as they are, perhaps it's no wonder they value strength in the city?

III. Graduation Day (21st - 23rd) The Underground does not have 'Litha' as Aefenglomites know it, but come the 21st, they do have a major celebration. They simply call it the New Year, or Graduation Day, depending on what festivities are asked about, because the three days serve as both. At this time of year, with more magic in the air, the algae and crystals glow much brighter, cycling naturally through different colors that cast beautiful rainbows across the imposing stone structures. This display is how they mark the start of a new year, and it coincides with the graduation of young Monsters from the Arena and Witches from the Academy. The New Year is a time to celebrate Bonding, partying, and showing off one's skills in the hopes of attracting a new Bondmate or romantic partner. Tensions can also rise high as rivalries are settled, and small brawls in the streets are common; the guards don't interfere, again, unless things get too dangerous. They're content to let citizens work out their own issues, but unfortunately, this means Mirrorbound may get dragged in on occasion! Small fights are also a tried and true tradition to show off one's abilities around this time of year. It serves multiple purposes: attracting a Bondmate, establishing a place in the unspoken hierarchy of the city, and working out problems with others. Monsters are more likely to start brawls than Witches, though it isn't wholly uncommon to bear witness to two rival Witches throwing spells at each other in an alleyway over their grievances. They're more likely to be stopped, as magic can be quite destructive. a. A Matching Pair The un-Bonded should take precautions during the New Year celebrations. These fascinating newcomers are bound to draw the eye of curious locals, and they may put on a violent or flashy show trying to draw your attention in return! The most common way to show that you're already taken during the celebrations is with face-painting: several stands set up around the marketplace with cosmetics and brushes, and two (or three, or more) people painting matching designs on their faces and bodies signify them as a set - either Bonded or intending to Bond. That doesn't mean there won't still be competition for your heart, but it will lessen significantly, especially if you're a Monster-Witch pair already. b. Exhibitions Primarily intended for the graduating classes of Monsters and Witches, the exhibitions are an official stage set for their coming-of-age; this year, however, the Matriarch has decreed that Mirrorbound may participate as well, in the interests of getting to know one another! They're interested to see what these strange travelers can do, especially against some of their own. Mirrorbound are encouraged by excitable locals if they seem reticent, but of course, no one is forced. (Just don't be surprised if you're called a coward for refusing!) At the Arena, a massive sunken ring with stone benches for spectators ringing the whole of it, young Monsters learn combat skills, with and without weapons, and how to harness their unique physiologies in the dangerous world of the Underground. Their yearly exhibition fights take place all through the three days of the New Year, and young Monsters battle each other til first blood to the cheers and jeers of citizens (and more importantly, Witches) come to watch. The longer the battle, the more impressive it is - and Monster Mirrorbound will have no shortage of eager opponents wanting to test their skills against the unknown. Generally, the fights result in bruises, small cuts, and little else, but rivals for the same Witch might take it farther on purpose before they're wrenched away from each other by the teachers. Meanwhile, at the Academy, the tallest stone spire building in the city, young Witches learn magic from a young age. It isn't exactly the same as magic taught at the Coven, but many concepts are similar - barriers, evocation, enchantments meant for weapons or shields, healing, most of the magic they're taught at this younger age is for combat, protection or practical purposes. They only learn more frivolous magics after graduation. Much like their Monster counterparts, they give solo or duet shows of their flashier and more impressive magical skills in the courtyard, with many citizens coming to watch and take stock of the new generation. Mirrorbound Witches may find themselves being cajoled into putting on a show of their own by curious locals wanting to know what kinds of magic are taught elsewhere.

IV. Aefenglom - Litha (21st - 23rd) Meanwhile, for those who have chosen to stay above-ground or those who have left early, Litha comes once more to Aefenglom, bringing with it beautiful pink and purple skies, a far departure from last year's red tint. It has the city in a much cheerier mood for the celebrations. While they know that several Mirrorbound left for a while, they don't seem too aware of the actual mission, and have very little to say on the matter - they'd rather have a nice Litha, after last year's bad omens! Many of the activities from last year return, better than before, including the brothels opening up their doors (showing off all the wonderful new styles in lingerie!), collecting flowers to put under one's pillow in order to dream of future partners, and wandering the hedge mazes that have been magically constructed in certain parts of the city. Seeing off ships happens regularly as well, citizens setting floating candles into the harbor and river to wish them luck. a. Love Boats A new attraction for Litha is being rolled out this year right on the River Temese! Near the gate, an enterprising Faun has set up a few small boats, each just big enough for two and shielded with fine gauzy curtains for privacy. Couples are invited to buy a ride down the river together, assured it will certainly set the mood. Those who have no partners are offered (or cajoled) to be randomly paired with someone, because perhaps it's fate! The boats drift lazily down the river and stop on their own next to a small dock right before they reach the Harbor. Unless you're willing to swim, hopefully you like your boat partner, because you're stuck with them the whole ride. b. Predictive Pools One bathhouse in the Entertainment District has laid an enchantment on one of their semi-public baths for Litha. When two people stand in the water together, bare, it will begin to glow and take on one of a handful of colors that they say will predict the pair's compatibility level! Sexually, romantically? Well, why not both? The only thing is, they've lost the instructions, and cannot seem to remember what color means "most compatible" and what color means "not compatible at all"... As a reminder, all sexual content should be clearly marked in comment headers, or else moved to a comm-locked log or personal inbox! Be good to each other.

Welcome to June's Event Log, What Lies Beneath! The Underground will be open until mid-July at minimum, and possibly longer. Characters can come and go if they're willing to make the trip multiple times. As always, please direct your questions here! The NPC threads will take place here. Aaand, the Action Tracker is right here! Make sure to let us know what your characters have been up to, good and bad, by July 7th, as this will help determine how Mirrorbound-Underground relations might proceed in the future!

Comments

[prayerwheel]

Ah? Did you end up speaking to that friend of yours?

[ color her curious ]

[cryptsleeper]

[Let him pretend it's a victory!

But also let him enjoy how appropriately and stupidly goth and nerdy this is. Making out in an entire underground civilization, having just had an epic library binge. Alucard's arms wrap around Sypha's waist to keep her close, his hair starting to brush over them both.

There's such happiness when he breaks from the kiss, seeking air.]

[oathkeeper]

[It's a good thing Vanitas manages to finally get out of the boat despite all of Sora's energetic bouncing about that nearly capsized the boat again. Because he quickly reaches for one hand while the other might reach up to tug the pink flower out of those dark locks for Vanitas himself. Even if he's a little bummed out that Vanitas won't wear it past this moment he does keep his word.]

As long as they have veggie options for me. Maybe something like sundried tomatoes. I could get into that.

[He grins at Vanitas before it's a tug towards the street once again.]

[darkcharge]

[ Ah. Van thought that Sora might press for a time extension on the flower. So he's pretty surprised when Sora is the one that reaches up and plucks it out on the end. Yes, Van can feel the little flicker of disappointment. However Vanitas is also someone that keeps his word as well. If Sora finds something else, he will wear it. ]

Sundried tomoatoes? That's a thing?

[ Welp. There goes Sora. He is already grabbing and tugging Vanitas along by the hand. Down towards the vendors they go. People calling for guests to try this that or the other. Steam filling the air as well as the scents of everything that's cooking. ]

[piromare]

He listened. He tried to defend a Burnish that wasn't me, and he wanted to save the planet. I might be a fool sometimes, but he's the real deal.

( and the thought alone makes him smile to himself. )

He actually cares. That's hard to find back home. No one even tries to sympathize, else they get thrown in jail and never seen again. Or Freeze Force might just destroy all of your belongings. Sometimes, both.

( lio huffs. )

So... I guess I can't let him do things alone.

[hoboagogo]

[The description earns another noise of amusement from him, if only because he can perfectly imagine it. The way she just... does stuff like that, for no reason than to make a scene.]

Don't tell her this, but I think she really does have a hell've an ego about some things. No one does that kinda shit unless they want people to see.

[At least nothing about his tone suggests anything negative. But Fie's deadpan flamboyent actions are such a sharp turn from anyone he'd known back home. Even his teammates who wanted to be seen as big heroes or some shit didn't pull stunts like that.

Maybe an Erebonian thing.]

And don't worry about it. [He waves a hand, as though dismissing the idea of being owed.]

If the locals eat it, they probably know how to prepare it right. [A pause, considering.] You could always just make a couple've dishes. Use some of the worm meat for one, then make some kinda.... mushroom medley or whatever. That way people can take their pick.

[recklessbelief]

Hmmm...

[Akko's brow furrows as she begins to give it some serious thought. Most of the merchandise for this festival seems to be fairly temporary. Assuming one doesn't enchant a bouquet of flowers, for example, they're always going to wilt. And the food and drink is meant to be eaten and drank, not left lying around.]

Oh, you know, they make cameras here! Magitech ones. Maybe you guys could take a picture together with it.

[strongspirited]

[They are both absolutely goth nerds.

Sypha catches his waist with both her hands, pulling him close and holding him from getting far away.]

...That was nice. You're getting good at this.

[fulgency]

[The way Momo talks about it contrasts sharply with whatever bits and pieces he's managed to overhear from Elizabeth. Her concerns always seemed so much more self-focused, threatened and easily slighted by anyone who might threaten to rob her of her chance for such lavish attention by her adoring "fans" (i.e. staff who are forced to Endure). Honestly, Momo's way of thinking about it seems better and far more natural. Those who come before others should hope that those that come after rise to the occasion and exceed them. They shouldn't seek to hold onto their standing forever, but be prepared to move on when the next generation appear ready.]

Do you have to work harder then with only two of you?

[fulgency]

Well, I don't believe it is to the other extreme as you suggested and that we are to be soulmates. Aside from the fact I already know for myself who that it is and we shall one day be reunited, I think it's a rather dull color for something as important as that.

[Not that there is anything particularly wrong with pink or even this shade of it, but he would expect something a little...more for something like that during a festival such as Litha.]

But eliminating the extremes leaves us with quite a number of possibilities, doesn't it?

[fiddlestick]

[Yeah that's fair, Erebonians tend to be pretty extra. Elliot's a weird one for actually not pulling many stunts like that.]

Ahaha, your secret's safe. And...I can't say you're wrong. [Because, he can't deny it] I miss her, but it's probably good Laura's not here too. They tend to egg each other on.

[You'd get dragged into late night knife fights even more often.

Shinjiro he will pay you back somehow!!!]

Oh that's a good idea! Maybe I can make the mushroom one more typical? So pickier people will be more willing to eat it.

[slayvega]

[ The amusement was shared as Chise smiled, her eyes focused on the children elading the way. ]

That's true. And especially if you're going to be making a deal.

[ That sure does sound familiar. It's not as if she's been told this multiple times over and still recklessly makes a deal without thinking anyway. ANYWAY-- ]

A story in exchange for a guide and some shopping tips is good. Can't really go wrong with that.

Re: 1.

[fabrications]

[ If Waver being a Monster in the library didn't already make him a suspected Mirrorbound, that response definitely would. As it is, all it does is confirm Akechi's suspicions. ]

I suppose you can't just cast a translation spell...

[ Akechi pauses for a moment. He's not about to waste the reagents for such a spell on a stranger, but it's kind of pointless to just hand it over and walk away when he might be able to get something else out of the exchange. So after a moment... ]

Well, the spell isn't perfect, but I could tell you the gist of what the scroll says and expand on anything that seems more interesting.

[rollfordiplomacy]

"Oh, to the contrary," Everett says, tone overly strict, only to hope and disarm with how entirely sincere and soft he is to say, "there is none I would prefer speak with." He takes his own seat with a crossing of his long legs, straightening out pants and gloves before continuing on.

"Mistress Ellaria is actually most curious to me," he begins, "I heard tell you fought and hard won her favor. Another achievement of yours, such was described. And yet her descriptions feel oddly familiar to me. Which perhaps is a little, old goat's mind seeing tracks where there are none to follow. May I ask, is your good witch a lifelong denizen of the underground?"

[fabrications]

I think most people would be rattled. She certainly has a presence.

[ Akechi himself was left feeling a bit tense, but not exactly 'rattled', as he puts it. He's had some experience dealing with extremely powerful people who could kill him without consequence. ]

What did she ask you?

[fabrications]

When I visited in the dream, Witches without Bonds were a source of considerable interest to the local Monsters - and any other Monsters nearby were seen as rivals for their attention.

[ He sounds amused yet chagrined as he explains. It had been rather annoying to deal with. ]

I never saw an actual fight break out, but tensions were still running high.

[reluctantradiance]

I guess so... [ Zero arguments here. Except for maybe Why ]

O-Oh, well- [ His pause is more from surprise than hesitation. He should've known by now that Lance tends to be fairly enthusiastic, but he still wasn't prepared. Plus... play a song from home? He's still learning to read sheet music.

...although there is one song from home that, perhaps, he could figure out. One not unlike the one resting silently in the music box in his pocket right now. ] ...That sounds like a great idea. I think it might take me a while to figure it out, but I'll be sure to play it for you once I do.

[loverboi]

Great! I'm looking forward to hearing it, buddy.

[ he looks excited for this, too. lance has been a little nostalgic about home; it's nice to share that sentiment with someone else. especially a friend. (he also just really likes soothing guitar music. he believes in you, yuma.) ]

You know, I don't think I ever asked you this -- you have a Bonded, right?

[loverboi]

Apparently not. Quiznak.

[ he's huffy. he thought that would work! trucy puts on a good show when it comes to acting, and she was pretty convincing, too. ]

He was just taking a shot in the dark with that pricing, if you ask me. Fifty-thousand cunes? No thanks.

[loverboi]

...Okay, true.

[ five hundred dollars in comparison to fifty-thousand cunes sounds a lot more affordable, even if they're both essentially the same thing. momo's right about that. lance didn't grow up all that rich -- he was fine and all, but definitely not rich. he doesn't know what it's like to buy expensive things just because you can, which is why he was being stingy. ]

On both counts. I don't have to worry as much about talking to hundreds of different people every day, if that's what you're getting at.

[loverboi]

Really?

[ he pauses. this sounds familiar, somewhat -- ah! ]

Is that what people on the network were talking about? I took a look at that post; others said they dreamed of a city like this. And since you're not the only one... Hey, that might be exactly what they were trying to do.

[reluctantradiance]

I look forward to playing it for you. [ Yuma can't help but smile in return. Something about Lance's excitement feels almost contagious. He's going to do everything he can to make sure that song is the best it can be for him.

The next question calms him a bit, and Yuma offers his usual gentle nod. ]

Yeah. Just one though. My roommate offered to bond with me after one of the full moons since I didn't have one yet.

[ Yuma shuffles a bit and looks away, embarrassed. It had been a rough night, with his monster side getting a bit too powerful for him to handle. Having a bond with a witch helped, sure, but... He still wishes he hadn't caused trouble in the first place. It brought up a lot of unpleasant memories. ]

[loverboi]

[ and he'll appreciate it. really, he thinks it'll be special when it does happen. he's looking forward to it a lot.

he's happy to hear about yuma's bonded, though. he's just glad yuma's not alone and he's got someone to help him out. going without a witch bond for as long as he did was...unpleasant, to say the least -- he wouldn't wish that on anyone else. ]

Better late than never, right? Especially when it comes to stuff like this.

[ he's grateful he found his bonded partners when he did, even if one is only temporary. ]

[stardustish]

[ MHM. it'll be Just Fine.

she's about to ask him about why he's uncomfortable down here, but then... then...! he presents her with the magic suggestion: ]

Are you asking me to train with you, Lio?

[ she laughs a little, but as she tries to imagine what it'd be like...she tenses up, suddenly. it's an odd shift in demeanor, but she seems uneasy for a moment as she remembers... something. she thinks about lio's wings, and then back to the person responsible for taking her friend away from her--

no, no. this is lio. he would never do something like that, and more than that: sylvia is determined to not let the past control her.

(truly, it's a shame that it does. in this case, however, she's going to try to look past it.) ]

Yeah. Yeah, okay. Let's do it.

[plasticasshole]

I wouldn't be surprised if a scuffle did break out, if things are so tense. I'm not interested in fighting, but I'll defend myself if necessary and I'm sure most other Monsters feel the same way.

[He shrugs a little.]

Personally, I prefer to wait and see who has potential before thinking about Bonding with them. Aggressively chasing after strangers is an odd concept to me.