nohalation (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
nohalation) wrote2018-08-03 02:18 am
nohalation) wrote2018-08-03 02:18 am
The Sleeping City - Parsnip and Parsley
GM09/09/2017
You go back to the orange room and while it's still surrounded by an inifite graveyard of No End, the only door leading out/in was the one connected to the karaoke room.
Proffessor Oak's voice appears in your head: DON'T USE THE BIC—I mean, you might have to navigate through other rooms to access some!
So, perhaps, either door from the karaoke room could eventually lead to a room that could eventually lead to this birthday room.
:relieved: :ok_hand: :sweat_drops:
professor oak believes, in this case he might be Solitaire
it's Solitaire.
His voice.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Oh okay. Look, Dusk just ignores Solitaire ANYWAY. "Well, I guess there's no way to it from here." She rubs her chin. "Maybe we'll find a different way."
You enter a dark city... town? No skyscrapers, but it gives the impression that the many buildings you see are packed in tightly. The streets are silent. The old streetlights flicker, and crickets buzz in the distance.
There are a couple obvious places to visit here:
1) A 24/7 shop. It's difficult to see what it sells from the storefront.
2) A park, complete with a swingset and seesaw. A small group of cloaked people are gathered there...
...at least, that's all that stands out to you as it is. If people are awake, or if you feel like executing your AMAZING QUEST STAT, orrr you feel like being a criminal who breaks into houses, you might be able to uncover more locations and people! And information! Because there's supposed to be a boss here, somewhere.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
My amazing quest stat is 0!
GM09/09/2017
The sleeping city mocks you quietly.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Ohhh...!" Juno says quietly to themselves, eyes large and taking the whole city sights in. Wow!!
In particular, they are attracted to the park and swing set with cloaked people. In fact, with the blanket wrapped around them as it is, Juno looks like a clocked person themself when they approach...
GM09/09/2017
These people have hoods pulled over their heads, obscuring their faces, and their cloaks are dark, reaching to their ankles...
...but then you notice fur trim on the edges of their sleeves. Upon your approach, the crowd turns to you. You still can't see their faces. The one, with the voice of a young, gentle man, speaks up first.
"Oh, hello. Are you trying to keep warm, too?"
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Mmhm." Juno agrees, because the blanket is very soft and warm and they're not about to take it off, "But also, to play on the playground."
GM09/09/2017
He laughs, softly and kindly, and pulls back his hood. He is certainly a young man, appearing no older than twenty, with short brown hair. His round amber eyes study you curiously. He hasn't stopped smiling, and the cloaked individual standing next to him—at the same height—chuckles.
"Aren't you too old?"
It's such an honest question.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Not one to mind bluntness, Juno beams back at the man and his other cloaked companion - instantly pleased by the soft and kind tone, as well as the clearly welcoming smile. They don't see any reason to lie either.
"Oh, I'm a construct, so I'm not as old as I look. Besides, I think playing isn't something you should ever be too old for?"
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk just watches like :ooo .
GM09/09/2017
"A construct?"
Still smiling, he tilts his head. No, he's baffled, what's a construct??
The cloaked man next to him pulls off his own hood—he looks almost exactly like the young man next to him. Twins! Except, he looks like he doesn't brush his hair. He, too, is smiling, though it doesn't seem as gentle or soft, per se. It's simply a polite smile.
"A construct? The kingdom we're heading to has a construct. Do you know where that might beeee...?"
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Even polite smiles are okay, though it does make Juno hesitate a little before replying. "Maybe? It's my kingdom? But... I don't think I'm famous or anything..."
Their words trail off into a mumble as they say that, voice clearly tinny and growing even moreso with some sense of shame.
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the messy hair chuckles and places a hand on his hip, running his free hand through his bangs.
"Ahh, well, more like, there's a construct in that kingdom's court! See, we escorts promised to visit. We sent a messenger, after all, who spoke to a nun. There's a wolf fella, a construct, a fluffy bird child, catty person, and the descendent of the king of disaster, I believe? Ruling the kingdom."
The twin with the neat hair looks flustered, BRO DON'T JUST REFER TO PEOPLE LIKE THAT!! SO RUDE!! He even bows to you, repeatedly, trying to remain silent to prevent an argument. As he bows, you notice the few cloaked individuals behind him tensing their figures. Something somewhere in that statement has them on the edge.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Oh!" Juno claps their hands together in understanding, not at all bothered by the breach in ettiquete. "Oh, then that's me! Us! Yes. Hello."
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk is still watching, an unreadable expression on her face, but it also doesn't blink. Nor interrupts of course.
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the neat hair jumps up after bowing for the twelfth time, startling the twin with the messy hair.
"Oh! Oh, it's you! Representatives of Halation, greetings!" He clasps his hands together, stepping closer to you with a bright smile. "We are the escorts from the Millenium Dynasty, hoping to discuss a future with your kingdom. The destiny we forge together could mean so much...!"
The twin with the messy hair continues smiling, only politely and not as enthuastically as his brother, and looks over at Dusk. His smile widens, just a little, as he looks at her amidst his brother's eager chatter with Juno.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Jiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.
Smmmmmmmmiiiiiilessssss back and waaaaves?
GM09/09/2017
While Neat-Haired Twin sparkles at Juno, Messy-Haired Twin points at Dusk.
"Hey, is she the Ruler? She's wearing a crown."
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Juno sparkles back! Or maybe that's their stars. Either way, there's a lot of sparkling. They turn the full brunt on that on the rougher twin, quite happy to answer and all all questions with their and the kingdom's new friends!
"Yes! That is Dusk. Dusk, you like making new friends too, don't you? And for the Kingdom, too!"
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
There is a weird pause, but almost as if she snaps to it, her eyes start to sparkle just as much as they normally do, "Of course I do! Who wouldn't want to? Juno is good at making friends too, right?"
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the neat hair unclasps his hands then eagerly curls them into fists.
"I see, I see! The Ruler, and... who might you be?" He says this to Juno, and as if realizing an error, he bows yet again. "Please forgive me, we are not that prepared... I hope you will not look upon us poorly, or see us as presenting you with a poor representation of our kingdom. We promise we're not disorganized or..."
"—they better not think like that of us," the messy hair twin interjects. This time he props both hands on his hips. "Our kingdom was of the few pieces of civilization to survive the labyrinthfication of the world. Mocking us... is making a grave mistake." He glances back to Dusk, very purposefully. "But many people make mistakes in their lives."
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Huh? Ah, I wasn't thinking anything like that at least..." Juno reassures, at first perplexed and then somewhat wistful when they start to figure out that maybe there's some sort of protocol they're not aware of. The glance to Dusk isn't lost on them either, but as far as they're concerned, that's not any of their business.
"I don't really know much about anything myself, but so far you all seem very nice and respectable and I'm sure your kingdom is too." They nod with emphasis, and add with much feeling (considering recent events and all): "I for one won't let anyone mock you if I know about it!"
Their name is an after-thought to that proclamation, because, oh right, that's important too. "Oh. And I'm Juno."
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk waves a hand, "Mocking for what? Don't be so serious, it's fine, it's fine! Really, I mean our own kingdom is pretty funny, and we have a bowl of plastic fruit minus a few pieces, but I like it anyway!" She seems quite fine about all of that really, she isn't easily threatened, shock and surprise.
"Don't worry about being prepared, just do what you normally do. That's what I do!" She looks at the others and pauses. Is that what they do? Hmmmm....
GM09/09/2017
The neat-haired twin sighs and places his hand over his heart, smiling widely and awkwardly.
"What a relief. This isn't my first time meeting with representatives from other kingdoms, but it's so nerve-wracking that we got lost on our way. Meeting people like you leaves me with a good impression of Halation. Why, Halation seems... like a kingdom with potential, and a large heart. At least, they seem very understanding."
He trails off with a small laugh, and the messy-haired twin shrugs. On observation, the way the messy twin keeps his hands on his hips makes it seem more like he wants to stuff them into pockets he doesn't have, what with wearing a cloak and all.
The neat-haired twin continues, the few cloaked figures behind them remaining as silent as usual.
"And so, it is very nice to meet you, Juno. I'm Parsley of the Past, and this gentleman here is my brother, Parsnip of the Future. I don't know if you can tell, but we're twins."
His smile is pure.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
"Whoa, you're twins."
GM09/09/2017
"See, brother? We surprised someone! It's hard to tell we're related!" Parsley's sparkling once more.
Parsnip stares.
:confused:
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"You do have very different attitudes," Juno remarks tilting their head, "But you both have the same handsome face."
They say that without any intent to be charming, it's just a Fact.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
It's a Fact, Dusk agrees inwardly.
GM09/10/2017
Parsley laughs, blushing.
"Handsome...!"
Parsnip grins and jabs a thumb towards his brother, than himself.
"That said, while Parsley here doesn't mind being called by his full name, you can just call me Snip. If you were reading over something, like, a script, or a story, you'd probably gloss over our names easily, right? Parsley, Parsnip. So let's do it that way, yeah?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"I'm Dusk! So you can call me Dusk!" She nods, hands on her own hips. "I don't get a chance to read much!"
GM09/10/2017
The brothers turn to one another and blink. Parsley speaks up, inquiring.
"Do neither of you have titles? Is Halation... a poor kingdom with no history?"
Again, despite such a COMMENT, he seems genuinely concerned.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno blinks, processing, then laughs a little sheepishly! "We do! My title is "The Aesthetic"... sorry, I'm used to everyone I know just calling me by name."
GM09/10/2017
"Halation seems really casual... hm." Snip taps a finger on his chin, studying you guys carefully. You're well-dressed, right?
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
More or less, yes. Under their blanket and armor, Juno sports a nice dark blue outfit with various star motifs as appropriate of an Astrologer.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Oh, you probably would hear people use 'the Miserable' for me too." And I imagine it's whatever the kingdom dress allows her to dress. "We're going to make Halation a great country!"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"That's why we're here." Juno adds, gesturing around them, "We're going to fight the boss of this labyrinth."
They pause. Then correct themselves: "And/or make friends with them. That happens too."
GM09/10/2017
Dusk ur the ruler you dress however u want to dress, NOT EVEN SOLITAIRE CAN STOP YOU! unwelcome grandpa.
The twins turn to each other and laugh. It sounds genuine, and not insulting. Probably. Parsley stops laughing first, long enough to make a suggestion.
"In that case, please let us help you! We know just about everything about this city-like room as we've been stuck here for quite a while. We can give you indication of where to go from here, to maybe find that boss.
"In return, we'd like if you could give us directions to your Kingdom so we can set up 'fort,' so to speak, and be prepared for a lengthy conversation on our kingdoms' potential futures together."
Snip speaks up, raising a hand.
"Actually, give us your map for a split second and we'll see what you've marked from here, and we'll mark some things on there for you."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Why are you stuck?"
GM09/10/2017
"Because we're bad with direction." :slight_frown:
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Hahaha!" She laughs back, but not in a mean way. Just in a Dusk way. "That's fine! Those guys behind you are stuck with you? Are those your followers? We got them too! But some of them are stuck napping, oh well."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Meanwhile, Juno had been reaching for their map and unfolding it. They sidle up to Snip's side and point to the orange room helpfully. "That's the room out."
GM09/10/2017
Parsley nods in response to Dusk's question. The three cloaked figures remain still. They're not as tense as they were when this conversation first started.
"That's right. They're followers. They can't be of much help, I'm afraid, but they do try their best. I appreciate every ounce they give us."
Snip leans over Juno's map, and hums.
"An orange room... wait, how did you get there from here? None of the exits here lead in that direction... do you guys use your map?" He actually scratches his head a bit.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk waves at the followers, "Thanks, followers!"
GM09/10/2017
The figures remain perfectly still. Parsley laughs, and offers them what SOUNDS like a word of encouragement in a language you can't parse.
Still, they only bob their heads slightly in acknowledgement. Parsley shrugs, throwing in the towel. He tried to make them kind of friendly. He tried.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"A little." Juno admits to Snip, then continues reluctantly, "Maybe we should've marked the stairs in the Karaoke room...?"
GM09/10/2017
"Karaoke room? Nice, nice, very nice. Well, here, let me write some stuff down." He pulls out a marker and begins marking on the map.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"It wasn't nice at all, I didn't even get to siiiing..." She whines a little bit, pouting, but she watches anyway. "Why is it boring?"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno pitches their voice down, for only Snips to hear: "The computer's mean and was going to kill us if we didn't sing perfectly. We tricked it with a song that was only silence."
GM09/10/2017
Popping the cap on the marker, Snips shrugs. "Oh, just, it'd put me to sleep. You'd never catch me in a place like that any time of the day."
Parsley leans into Snip's space, sharply elbowing him in the gut. -1 HP FOR SNIP.
"Oh, brother, that's because it's a library! And, as you should know, our kingdom is chock full of books. After all, the Millienium Dynasty is a kingdom thriving on information collected from ages and ages ago!"
Snip sucks in his breath (having just been elbowed and all, jesus such sharp elbows,) and blinks at Juno.
"Only silence...? What..."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk watches, oooohs and aaaahs at the -1hp. She sympathizes as she has like no hp as well. "I don't know if I'm very good at reading. Do we have that many books in the kingdom? Your kingdom sounds really fancy, I've never heard of it though I don't think."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
How unexpectedly weak, thinks Juno The Tank. They're very interested in these books though, and answer Snip somewhat distractedly, "It's a song, um, called "4'33"". And... I don't think we have that many books at all... maybe we could set up an exchange?"
They sound very hopeful. They really like learning about new things!
GM09/10/2017
"Never heard of it?" Snip jerks his head towards Parsley, actually, kind of panicked?
Parsley laughs softly, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "Our kingdom... does tend to keep in the dark. Preserving information is important to us, so we must be somewhat reclusive! We would be interested in an exchange, of course, but this is not the place to discuss. We shall proceed to your kingdom, and once you have honorably defeated this boss we can then take care of matters from then on!"
...he then places his fingertips together, his confident speech ending with nervous laughter and an apologetic look.
"If that is okay with you. We both are busy, is all..."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"That's fine by me." Says Juno who thinks it's a very sensible plan. Once back in the kingdom they can really take their time to get to know each other and become good friends too! The thought makes them smile warmly. "We're looking forward to our future together with you!"
It almost sounds like some kind of proprosal, but, well. They're really just echoing back the language Parsley used.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Well, I think sometimes our servant forgets to tell me important stuff so maybe that's what happened. I don't think it really matters . . . " She scratches her head, contemplating. "Where's the boss anyway?"
GM09/10/2017
Parsley returns Juno's warm smile in turn.
"Oh, yes, the boss... well, there is a guard standing outside that building further down the road. I wonder, he must be protecting something? I didn't inspect it deeply, as I'm under the impression that, given that these city is eternally nighttime, they might just be cautious 24/7?"
"Yeah, it's always dark. It's hard to see, so a guard is wise..."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
On that note, "Do you want us to guide you to the stairs, then?"
GM09/10/2017
Parsley waves his hands frantically.
"Oh, please, don't worry! We got this! Our direction is poor, but as we haven't seen a single monster, it shouldn't be a problem!"
Snip chuckles to himself. "It is nice to be worried over, and to have our hand held, but we do know what we're doing. We do so heartily appreciate it."
Snip's words seem a little forced, but mostly because he seems like he's trying to echo his brother's way of speaking. In some manner.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"If you insist." Replies Juno, taking their words at face value.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Then I suppose you may accompany us on our adventure to finding the boss within this realm." Dusk chirps in, imitating the brothers (and Juno unintentionally??? they're pretty polite too tbf). "And when we escape this labyrinth,we maybe pursue some sort of relationship." Turns to look at Snip as she speaks.
GM09/10/2017
A moment's silence takes place while the twins look at one another. Snip's smile is tight, and Parsley's remains gentle and warm.
"We don't want to drag you down..."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk gets bored real quick of that, sry. "Nah, it's fine! We have a lotta people! Where else are yu gonna go especially if you get lost all the time?"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Mm, it's fine if you want to come along." Juno starts, innocently, "After all, Dusk doesn't do much either and often needs to be protected."
They don't mean that as a burn?
Probably?
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Yeah! I can't really fight! But my talent is the smile across my face when I remember the fans that are always by my side."
Dusk doesn't notice either way.
Most definitely.
GM09/10/2017
Snip now looks antsy, looking desperately like he wants to shove hands into pockets he STILL doesn't have.
Parsley tilts his head, still smiling.
"We do insist we get on our way. We've been keeping Halation waiting for too long... what if your people think we're dead? Surely there is someone there to greet us."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"I think we left like one guy behind I guess?" She looks at Juno, scratching her head.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno isn't fussed either way, but they sideye Dusk back before nodding. "Yes, we have some people there. That settles it?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Yes, it settles it. Lets all go together!" She nods, completely just missing half of the conversation.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Eh?"
That wasn't what Juno was going for at all, and they're pretty sure the twin weren't either. They look at the twins somewhat befuddled and apologetic. 'Dusk gets this way sometimes', the look seems to communicate.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"There's not many people in the kingdom left since most of them came with us. Like in that case, isn't Halation really where we are now? And anyway, we know they're not dead so its' fine. Like who are they going to talk to when they get back there? Solitaire?" Makes a face like pssh. Please.
"He didn't even tell me they were coming! Geez."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Are you sure you didn't just forget?" Juno asks, bluntly.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Nope, I'm not sure at all."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"... then I think it'll be okay for them to go." Juno decides. Is this a coup? It might be a coup.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"If they got lost to the kingdom again, that'd be a problem, too ... " She taps her chin thoughtfully.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
While Dusk is lost in thought, Juno will make sublte shoo-ing motions at the twins.
GM09/10/2017
"I-it's okay, Dusk. Juno is right. Truthfully, the fact is, we're very tired..." He does look tired, huh. With Juno's shoo-ing motions, he and Snip start taking small steps towards the stairs.
"But if you'd like, we can leave two of our followers with you?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"...sure, okay!" She shrugs.
GM09/10/2017
"Yes, of course." Snip, this time, shoos two of the cloaked figures towards you. "You can have the stronger looking ones, we'll keep this weak one. Billiam and Wilson, right? Yeah, you can take them, just let us have some peace."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"It's pretty peaceful here though! At least I think so!"
She waves at Billiam and Wilson, TRYING TO GET A LOOK AT THEIR FACE.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"You might like to stop in the orange room, too." Juno says helpfully, "It's very restful."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Ooooh! Yes, that's true!"
"You might nap forever!"
GM09/10/2017
Snip sighs and trudges forward, pulling his hood over his own face.
Parsley smiles apologetically, placing a hand on the last figure's back as they leave.
"We're sorry, I suppose the truth is... embarassing... Maybe you will find us there, then."
It's not possible to see Billiam's and Wilson's face? Weird. Parsley leaves off with one last comment as he, too, pulls the hood over his face.
"Good luck, Halation court. May your journey be swift and successful."
Snip chuckles. "That's right. Whenever you get back, I can show you what kind of fun guy I am."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
She waves at them, and calls out"Don't worry, I won't find you guys embarrassing at all!" Btu she does pause about something. "A fun guy, huh?"
GM09/10/2017
Snip grins. "That's right. If you don't like books, you probably understand my idea of fun." With that he walks on ahead further. Soon it's just the party and the two Millenium Dynasty followers left behind.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Fun guy, fun guy...." Juno repeats, partly to themselves, partly to Dusk.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
She watches them leave and she says to herself, almost at a whisper, "Maybe he is interested in . . . the Phallus Indusiatus . . . "
GM09/10/2017
The M.D. followers just look at one another. They don't get it.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno shrugs. And turns to the follows! "Nice to meet you! Thanks for coming to help us out. Shall we get going?"
GM09/10/2017
The one grunts, and the other pounds their fist into their hand.
Anyway, after the GM finally gets the book that's stuck on her enter key, YOU ARE WELCOME TO FIGURE OUT WHERE TO GO FROM HERE...
You go back to the orange room and while it's still surrounded by an inifite graveyard of No End, the only door leading out/in was the one connected to the karaoke room.
Proffessor Oak's voice appears in your head: DON'T USE THE BIC—I mean, you might have to navigate through other rooms to access some!
So, perhaps, either door from the karaoke room could eventually lead to a room that could eventually lead to this birthday room.
:relieved: :ok_hand: :sweat_drops:
professor oak believes, in this case he might be Solitaire
it's Solitaire.
His voice.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Oh okay. Look, Dusk just ignores Solitaire ANYWAY. "Well, I guess there's no way to it from here." She rubs her chin. "Maybe we'll find a different way."
You enter a dark city... town? No skyscrapers, but it gives the impression that the many buildings you see are packed in tightly. The streets are silent. The old streetlights flicker, and crickets buzz in the distance.
There are a couple obvious places to visit here:
1) A 24/7 shop. It's difficult to see what it sells from the storefront.
2) A park, complete with a swingset and seesaw. A small group of cloaked people are gathered there...
...at least, that's all that stands out to you as it is. If people are awake, or if you feel like executing your AMAZING QUEST STAT, orrr you feel like being a criminal who breaks into houses, you might be able to uncover more locations and people! And information! Because there's supposed to be a boss here, somewhere.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
My amazing quest stat is 0!
GM09/09/2017
The sleeping city mocks you quietly.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Ohhh...!" Juno says quietly to themselves, eyes large and taking the whole city sights in. Wow!!
In particular, they are attracted to the park and swing set with cloaked people. In fact, with the blanket wrapped around them as it is, Juno looks like a clocked person themself when they approach...
GM09/09/2017
These people have hoods pulled over their heads, obscuring their faces, and their cloaks are dark, reaching to their ankles...
...but then you notice fur trim on the edges of their sleeves. Upon your approach, the crowd turns to you. You still can't see their faces. The one, with the voice of a young, gentle man, speaks up first.
"Oh, hello. Are you trying to keep warm, too?"
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Mmhm." Juno agrees, because the blanket is very soft and warm and they're not about to take it off, "But also, to play on the playground."
GM09/09/2017
He laughs, softly and kindly, and pulls back his hood. He is certainly a young man, appearing no older than twenty, with short brown hair. His round amber eyes study you curiously. He hasn't stopped smiling, and the cloaked individual standing next to him—at the same height—chuckles.
"Aren't you too old?"
It's such an honest question.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Not one to mind bluntness, Juno beams back at the man and his other cloaked companion - instantly pleased by the soft and kind tone, as well as the clearly welcoming smile. They don't see any reason to lie either.
"Oh, I'm a construct, so I'm not as old as I look. Besides, I think playing isn't something you should ever be too old for?"
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk just watches like :ooo .
GM09/09/2017
"A construct?"
Still smiling, he tilts his head. No, he's baffled, what's a construct??
The cloaked man next to him pulls off his own hood—he looks almost exactly like the young man next to him. Twins! Except, he looks like he doesn't brush his hair. He, too, is smiling, though it doesn't seem as gentle or soft, per se. It's simply a polite smile.
"A construct? The kingdom we're heading to has a construct. Do you know where that might beeee...?"
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Even polite smiles are okay, though it does make Juno hesitate a little before replying. "Maybe? It's my kingdom? But... I don't think I'm famous or anything..."
Their words trail off into a mumble as they say that, voice clearly tinny and growing even moreso with some sense of shame.
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the messy hair chuckles and places a hand on his hip, running his free hand through his bangs.
"Ahh, well, more like, there's a construct in that kingdom's court! See, we escorts promised to visit. We sent a messenger, after all, who spoke to a nun. There's a wolf fella, a construct, a fluffy bird child, catty person, and the descendent of the king of disaster, I believe? Ruling the kingdom."
The twin with the neat hair looks flustered, BRO DON'T JUST REFER TO PEOPLE LIKE THAT!! SO RUDE!! He even bows to you, repeatedly, trying to remain silent to prevent an argument. As he bows, you notice the few cloaked individuals behind him tensing their figures. Something somewhere in that statement has them on the edge.
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Oh!" Juno claps their hands together in understanding, not at all bothered by the breach in ettiquete. "Oh, then that's me! Us! Yes. Hello."
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk is still watching, an unreadable expression on her face, but it also doesn't blink. Nor interrupts of course.
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the neat hair jumps up after bowing for the twelfth time, startling the twin with the messy hair.
"Oh! Oh, it's you! Representatives of Halation, greetings!" He clasps his hands together, stepping closer to you with a bright smile. "We are the escorts from the Millenium Dynasty, hoping to discuss a future with your kingdom. The destiny we forge together could mean so much...!"
The twin with the messy hair continues smiling, only politely and not as enthuastically as his brother, and looks over at Dusk. His smile widens, just a little, as he looks at her amidst his brother's eager chatter with Juno.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Jiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.
Smmmmmmmmiiiiiilessssss back and waaaaves?
GM09/09/2017
While Neat-Haired Twin sparkles at Juno, Messy-Haired Twin points at Dusk.
"Hey, is she the Ruler? She's wearing a crown."
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
Juno sparkles back! Or maybe that's their stars. Either way, there's a lot of sparkling. They turn the full brunt on that on the rougher twin, quite happy to answer and all all questions with their and the kingdom's new friends!
"Yes! That is Dusk. Dusk, you like making new friends too, don't you? And for the Kingdom, too!"
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
There is a weird pause, but almost as if she snaps to it, her eyes start to sparkle just as much as they normally do, "Of course I do! Who wouldn't want to? Juno is good at making friends too, right?"
GM09/09/2017
The twin with the neat hair unclasps his hands then eagerly curls them into fists.
"I see, I see! The Ruler, and... who might you be?" He says this to Juno, and as if realizing an error, he bows yet again. "Please forgive me, we are not that prepared... I hope you will not look upon us poorly, or see us as presenting you with a poor representation of our kingdom. We promise we're not disorganized or..."
"—they better not think like that of us," the messy hair twin interjects. This time he props both hands on his hips. "Our kingdom was of the few pieces of civilization to survive the labyrinthfication of the world. Mocking us... is making a grave mistake." He glances back to Dusk, very purposefully. "But many people make mistakes in their lives."
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"Huh? Ah, I wasn't thinking anything like that at least..." Juno reassures, at first perplexed and then somewhat wistful when they start to figure out that maybe there's some sort of protocol they're not aware of. The glance to Dusk isn't lost on them either, but as far as they're concerned, that's not any of their business.
"I don't really know much about anything myself, but so far you all seem very nice and respectable and I'm sure your kingdom is too." They nod with emphasis, and add with much feeling (considering recent events and all): "I for one won't let anyone mock you if I know about it!"
Their name is an after-thought to that proclamation, because, oh right, that's important too. "Oh. And I'm Juno."
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
Dusk waves a hand, "Mocking for what? Don't be so serious, it's fine, it's fine! Really, I mean our own kingdom is pretty funny, and we have a bowl of plastic fruit minus a few pieces, but I like it anyway!" She seems quite fine about all of that really, she isn't easily threatened, shock and surprise.
"Don't worry about being prepared, just do what you normally do. That's what I do!" She looks at the others and pauses. Is that what they do? Hmmmm....
GM09/09/2017
The neat-haired twin sighs and places his hand over his heart, smiling widely and awkwardly.
"What a relief. This isn't my first time meeting with representatives from other kingdoms, but it's so nerve-wracking that we got lost on our way. Meeting people like you leaves me with a good impression of Halation. Why, Halation seems... like a kingdom with potential, and a large heart. At least, they seem very understanding."
He trails off with a small laugh, and the messy-haired twin shrugs. On observation, the way the messy twin keeps his hands on his hips makes it seem more like he wants to stuff them into pockets he doesn't have, what with wearing a cloak and all.
The neat-haired twin continues, the few cloaked figures behind them remaining as silent as usual.
"And so, it is very nice to meet you, Juno. I'm Parsley of the Past, and this gentleman here is my brother, Parsnip of the Future. I don't know if you can tell, but we're twins."
His smile is pure.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
"Whoa, you're twins."
GM09/09/2017
"See, brother? We surprised someone! It's hard to tell we're related!" Parsley's sparkling once more.
Parsnip stares.
:confused:
Juno the Natural09/09/2017
"You do have very different attitudes," Juno remarks tilting their head, "But you both have the same handsome face."
They say that without any intent to be charming, it's just a Fact.
Dusk the Best09/09/2017
It's a Fact, Dusk agrees inwardly.
GM09/10/2017
Parsley laughs, blushing.
"Handsome...!"
Parsnip grins and jabs a thumb towards his brother, than himself.
"That said, while Parsley here doesn't mind being called by his full name, you can just call me Snip. If you were reading over something, like, a script, or a story, you'd probably gloss over our names easily, right? Parsley, Parsnip. So let's do it that way, yeah?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"I'm Dusk! So you can call me Dusk!" She nods, hands on her own hips. "I don't get a chance to read much!"
GM09/10/2017
The brothers turn to one another and blink. Parsley speaks up, inquiring.
"Do neither of you have titles? Is Halation... a poor kingdom with no history?"
Again, despite such a COMMENT, he seems genuinely concerned.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno blinks, processing, then laughs a little sheepishly! "We do! My title is "The Aesthetic"... sorry, I'm used to everyone I know just calling me by name."
GM09/10/2017
"Halation seems really casual... hm." Snip taps a finger on his chin, studying you guys carefully. You're well-dressed, right?
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
More or less, yes. Under their blanket and armor, Juno sports a nice dark blue outfit with various star motifs as appropriate of an Astrologer.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Oh, you probably would hear people use 'the Miserable' for me too." And I imagine it's whatever the kingdom dress allows her to dress. "We're going to make Halation a great country!"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"That's why we're here." Juno adds, gesturing around them, "We're going to fight the boss of this labyrinth."
They pause. Then correct themselves: "And/or make friends with them. That happens too."
GM09/10/2017
Dusk ur the ruler you dress however u want to dress, NOT EVEN SOLITAIRE CAN STOP YOU! unwelcome grandpa.
The twins turn to each other and laugh. It sounds genuine, and not insulting. Probably. Parsley stops laughing first, long enough to make a suggestion.
"In that case, please let us help you! We know just about everything about this city-like room as we've been stuck here for quite a while. We can give you indication of where to go from here, to maybe find that boss.
"In return, we'd like if you could give us directions to your Kingdom so we can set up 'fort,' so to speak, and be prepared for a lengthy conversation on our kingdoms' potential futures together."
Snip speaks up, raising a hand.
"Actually, give us your map for a split second and we'll see what you've marked from here, and we'll mark some things on there for you."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Why are you stuck?"
GM09/10/2017
"Because we're bad with direction." :slight_frown:
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Hahaha!" She laughs back, but not in a mean way. Just in a Dusk way. "That's fine! Those guys behind you are stuck with you? Are those your followers? We got them too! But some of them are stuck napping, oh well."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Meanwhile, Juno had been reaching for their map and unfolding it. They sidle up to Snip's side and point to the orange room helpfully. "That's the room out."
GM09/10/2017
Parsley nods in response to Dusk's question. The three cloaked figures remain still. They're not as tense as they were when this conversation first started.
"That's right. They're followers. They can't be of much help, I'm afraid, but they do try their best. I appreciate every ounce they give us."
Snip leans over Juno's map, and hums.
"An orange room... wait, how did you get there from here? None of the exits here lead in that direction... do you guys use your map?" He actually scratches his head a bit.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk waves at the followers, "Thanks, followers!"
GM09/10/2017
The figures remain perfectly still. Parsley laughs, and offers them what SOUNDS like a word of encouragement in a language you can't parse.
Still, they only bob their heads slightly in acknowledgement. Parsley shrugs, throwing in the towel. He tried to make them kind of friendly. He tried.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"A little." Juno admits to Snip, then continues reluctantly, "Maybe we should've marked the stairs in the Karaoke room...?"
GM09/10/2017
"Karaoke room? Nice, nice, very nice. Well, here, let me write some stuff down." He pulls out a marker and begins marking on the map.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"It wasn't nice at all, I didn't even get to siiiing..." She whines a little bit, pouting, but she watches anyway. "Why is it boring?"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno pitches their voice down, for only Snips to hear: "The computer's mean and was going to kill us if we didn't sing perfectly. We tricked it with a song that was only silence."
GM09/10/2017
Popping the cap on the marker, Snips shrugs. "Oh, just, it'd put me to sleep. You'd never catch me in a place like that any time of the day."
Parsley leans into Snip's space, sharply elbowing him in the gut. -1 HP FOR SNIP.
"Oh, brother, that's because it's a library! And, as you should know, our kingdom is chock full of books. After all, the Millienium Dynasty is a kingdom thriving on information collected from ages and ages ago!"
Snip sucks in his breath (having just been elbowed and all, jesus such sharp elbows,) and blinks at Juno.
"Only silence...? What..."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk watches, oooohs and aaaahs at the -1hp. She sympathizes as she has like no hp as well. "I don't know if I'm very good at reading. Do we have that many books in the kingdom? Your kingdom sounds really fancy, I've never heard of it though I don't think."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
How unexpectedly weak, thinks Juno The Tank. They're very interested in these books though, and answer Snip somewhat distractedly, "It's a song, um, called "4'33"". And... I don't think we have that many books at all... maybe we could set up an exchange?"
They sound very hopeful. They really like learning about new things!
GM09/10/2017
"Never heard of it?" Snip jerks his head towards Parsley, actually, kind of panicked?
Parsley laughs softly, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "Our kingdom... does tend to keep in the dark. Preserving information is important to us, so we must be somewhat reclusive! We would be interested in an exchange, of course, but this is not the place to discuss. We shall proceed to your kingdom, and once you have honorably defeated this boss we can then take care of matters from then on!"
...he then places his fingertips together, his confident speech ending with nervous laughter and an apologetic look.
"If that is okay with you. We both are busy, is all..."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"That's fine by me." Says Juno who thinks it's a very sensible plan. Once back in the kingdom they can really take their time to get to know each other and become good friends too! The thought makes them smile warmly. "We're looking forward to our future together with you!"
It almost sounds like some kind of proprosal, but, well. They're really just echoing back the language Parsley used.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Well, I think sometimes our servant forgets to tell me important stuff so maybe that's what happened. I don't think it really matters . . . " She scratches her head, contemplating. "Where's the boss anyway?"
GM09/10/2017
Parsley returns Juno's warm smile in turn.
"Oh, yes, the boss... well, there is a guard standing outside that building further down the road. I wonder, he must be protecting something? I didn't inspect it deeply, as I'm under the impression that, given that these city is eternally nighttime, they might just be cautious 24/7?"
"Yeah, it's always dark. It's hard to see, so a guard is wise..."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
On that note, "Do you want us to guide you to the stairs, then?"
GM09/10/2017
Parsley waves his hands frantically.
"Oh, please, don't worry! We got this! Our direction is poor, but as we haven't seen a single monster, it shouldn't be a problem!"
Snip chuckles to himself. "It is nice to be worried over, and to have our hand held, but we do know what we're doing. We do so heartily appreciate it."
Snip's words seem a little forced, but mostly because he seems like he's trying to echo his brother's way of speaking. In some manner.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"If you insist." Replies Juno, taking their words at face value.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Then I suppose you may accompany us on our adventure to finding the boss within this realm." Dusk chirps in, imitating the brothers (and Juno unintentionally??? they're pretty polite too tbf). "And when we escape this labyrinth,we maybe pursue some sort of relationship." Turns to look at Snip as she speaks.
GM09/10/2017
A moment's silence takes place while the twins look at one another. Snip's smile is tight, and Parsley's remains gentle and warm.
"We don't want to drag you down..."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
Dusk gets bored real quick of that, sry. "Nah, it's fine! We have a lotta people! Where else are yu gonna go especially if you get lost all the time?"
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Mm, it's fine if you want to come along." Juno starts, innocently, "After all, Dusk doesn't do much either and often needs to be protected."
They don't mean that as a burn?
Probably?
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Yeah! I can't really fight! But my talent is the smile across my face when I remember the fans that are always by my side."
Dusk doesn't notice either way.
Most definitely.
GM09/10/2017
Snip now looks antsy, looking desperately like he wants to shove hands into pockets he STILL doesn't have.
Parsley tilts his head, still smiling.
"We do insist we get on our way. We've been keeping Halation waiting for too long... what if your people think we're dead? Surely there is someone there to greet us."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"I think we left like one guy behind I guess?" She looks at Juno, scratching her head.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno isn't fussed either way, but they sideye Dusk back before nodding. "Yes, we have some people there. That settles it?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Yes, it settles it. Lets all go together!" She nods, completely just missing half of the conversation.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Eh?"
That wasn't what Juno was going for at all, and they're pretty sure the twin weren't either. They look at the twins somewhat befuddled and apologetic. 'Dusk gets this way sometimes', the look seems to communicate.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"There's not many people in the kingdom left since most of them came with us. Like in that case, isn't Halation really where we are now? And anyway, we know they're not dead so its' fine. Like who are they going to talk to when they get back there? Solitaire?" Makes a face like pssh. Please.
"He didn't even tell me they were coming! Geez."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Are you sure you didn't just forget?" Juno asks, bluntly.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Nope, I'm not sure at all."
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"... then I think it'll be okay for them to go." Juno decides. Is this a coup? It might be a coup.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"If they got lost to the kingdom again, that'd be a problem, too ... " She taps her chin thoughtfully.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
While Dusk is lost in thought, Juno will make sublte shoo-ing motions at the twins.
GM09/10/2017
"I-it's okay, Dusk. Juno is right. Truthfully, the fact is, we're very tired..." He does look tired, huh. With Juno's shoo-ing motions, he and Snip start taking small steps towards the stairs.
"But if you'd like, we can leave two of our followers with you?"
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"...sure, okay!" She shrugs.
GM09/10/2017
"Yes, of course." Snip, this time, shoos two of the cloaked figures towards you. "You can have the stronger looking ones, we'll keep this weak one. Billiam and Wilson, right? Yeah, you can take them, just let us have some peace."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"It's pretty peaceful here though! At least I think so!"
She waves at Billiam and Wilson, TRYING TO GET A LOOK AT THEIR FACE.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"You might like to stop in the orange room, too." Juno says helpfully, "It's very restful."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
"Ooooh! Yes, that's true!"
"You might nap forever!"
GM09/10/2017
Snip sighs and trudges forward, pulling his hood over his own face.
Parsley smiles apologetically, placing a hand on the last figure's back as they leave.
"We're sorry, I suppose the truth is... embarassing... Maybe you will find us there, then."
It's not possible to see Billiam's and Wilson's face? Weird. Parsley leaves off with one last comment as he, too, pulls the hood over his face.
"Good luck, Halation court. May your journey be swift and successful."
Snip chuckles. "That's right. Whenever you get back, I can show you what kind of fun guy I am."
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
She waves at them, and calls out"Don't worry, I won't find you guys embarrassing at all!" Btu she does pause about something. "A fun guy, huh?"
GM09/10/2017
Snip grins. "That's right. If you don't like books, you probably understand my idea of fun." With that he walks on ahead further. Soon it's just the party and the two Millenium Dynasty followers left behind.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
"Fun guy, fun guy...." Juno repeats, partly to themselves, partly to Dusk.
Dusk the Best09/10/2017
She watches them leave and she says to herself, almost at a whisper, "Maybe he is interested in . . . the Phallus Indusiatus . . . "
GM09/10/2017
The M.D. followers just look at one another. They don't get it.
Juno the Natural09/10/2017
Juno shrugs. And turns to the follows! "Nice to meet you! Thanks for coming to help us out. Shall we get going?"
GM09/10/2017
The one grunts, and the other pounds their fist into their hand.
Anyway, after the GM finally gets the book that's stuck on her enter key, YOU ARE WELCOME TO FIGURE OUT WHERE TO GO FROM HERE...