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Impending Pursuit

Father

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a part of Impending Pursuit, by The_Queen.

Not Daddy

The_Queen holds sovereignty over Father, giving them the ability to make limited changes.

3,759 readers have been here.

Setting

The second largest ship in the Prime fleet.
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Father

Not Daddy

Minimap

Father is a part of Impending Pursuit.

1 Characters Here

Aster [2] "Robin Hood had the right idea...kind of."

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Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edward Killedge Character Portrait: Ciara
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Meeting his gaze with a plain stare, she seemed thoroughly content with just remaining as they were. She was certainly not in a rush to flex her non-existent social skills, and the act of skinship was cathartic to the affectionate slime. Nonetheless, she didn't fight as her unfortunate target took her hands and spun himself about. Now face to face with the man in question, Ciara expression formed a slightly dipped frown as the idyllic hug came to pass however she reverted back to her usual resting face in time to receive his answer.

Mentally imagining the trumpet-like shrieks of an raging Celty (even though they worded their order as a joke), Ciara's looked back into his eyes posthaste directly after letting her gaze drift while she pondered his reply. She would have to keep him here until he answered her question in full. Clenching his hands to discourage escape, she stepped forward so her forearms pressed against his chest. The girl seemed almost desperate to keep their contact to an overwhelming maximum. Equal parts because her manager's orders forced her to keep the man there until he had answered with something more direct and for her ability to sense his feelings to be more potent.

For a few moments, she stilled her advance to consider his question. Odd pretty thing..? Her brain registered it as flattery but she certainly had not been trained in receiving compliments gracefully. Her grip relaxed for a few moments only to reclench as she decided on a reply. "A odd pretty creature like myself is here because..I must meet people." Reiterating and acknowledging his sweet talk unceremoniously, she seemed to decide on an answer equally vague. Recalling the short lessons that Celty had taught her while dressing her, they told her the best way to keep someone's attention was to be intentionally unclear. Make her target spill before she did.

"..Could you make an exception for me? I cannot take you to dinner..but I must know your ideal partner." Reproposing her question that had been lost in short spurts of introduction, she worded her words like a plea..but meant it as an order. Her unblinking sleepy eyes catching his stare as she inadvertently pressed herself so the ends of her dress touched his knee. Dismissing his own attempts to create distance as even the slightest reprieve resulted in an unceasing advance by the deathly affectionate slime girl.

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Leo Behrends
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Location: Father











When the Leopard Man mentioned that he looked young for his age. Leo nodded in response to this...Actually now that he thought about it he did look young...In fact his parents only had a few wrinkles but were still young and active. Heck his own mother could easily beat him in arm wrestle for a few hours without breaking a sweat...Huh...It was certainly interesting to know more about others. But their conversation soon came to an end as his conversational partner expressed his want to get some food before orientation starts. He simply nodded in response. "The pleasure is mine, thanks for speaking to me. I appreciate it." He gave a thankful nod in reply as speaking of food, Leo wanted to check up on the food at the table he was standing at. He got some wine at the table but he might as well eat while he was at it.

Looking at the table, his eyes sparkled over all the fresh and delicious smelling snacks and finger foods on display for anyone to consume. Well, if this was for them then he would help himself to the food! He grabbed a plate and grabbed a fork...Once he got his utensils he went from food to food. Taking a cookie, some pudding, some cake, some crackers, some fruit...He just kept on going until he put one of everything upon his plate. The chef inside of him wanted to taste all foods available and think of ways to recreate it. As such he began carefully taking a bite out each delicacy and began to analyze the ingredients used. "Delicious...I think this is sugar...A lot of these have sugar in them. As for every other item...I have no clue but the tastes seem re-creatable...But this is really good! I wonder how they taste combined now..." He thought to himself as he nodded to himself as he began to combine multiple snacks together, to taste them to see which one worked and what others were not as great.

After his taste testing he felt himself much more full than before, and he kept a mental note in his mind about recipes he should write down on some paper for the future. Man...Now that he thought about it he needed a new book to write down his recipes since he left his back home for...In the event he did not return from this game...But that's a different issue to worry about. For now he looked around and noticed a comfy looking chair and sat down. Woah! The chair's were nice and soft! Amazing! This beats sleeping on an old mattress any day! But for now he decided to now drink from his wine glass to wash down the taste of all the food he has just eaten. Time to just rest, he guessed, I mean what are the chances there is another friendly person who walks up to people and wants to talk? In a death game at that...Well...He could go around...But first he wanted to enjoy this chair first.

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Scout Character Portrait: Lamia Serose Character Portrait: Bandit Sephilan
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Username: forever2b Speech Color | FC: Ayer from Granblue Fantasy Thought Color
ImageHaving snatched the jewel from the wolf-lady, Bandit rolled down to the ground, getting back up on his two feet. He looked over his shoulder to observe is suit, which now was muddied and ripped. He let out a frown of disappointment. Sahara was going to kill him for this. He could imagine it now, her deadly green eyes looking down at him, forcing the poor fox to sow it back together in front of his eyes. Just the thought of it made him shudder. However, that situation didn't seem like the threat right now.

The wolf started growling at him for the robbery that he performed. Bandit let out a shrug, with both hands up in response to her asking for a jewel back. She couldn't have possibly known he took it.

"Give what back?" He said, "I just went to pet your head."

Then the girl stood up, having a good foot (0.3048 m) over him in size. She growled, clearly a threatening pose. However, Bandit wasn't afraid. He's faced so much worse out in the Arctic. Due to the sheer cold of the seasons, creatures there were much bigger and bulkier. The fox stood up to countless monsters greater than this wolf girl. He snatched their meals and treasures, right in front of their face and made it out without a scratch.

It seemed like she didn't really want the jewel back from him, as she picked up her empty plate of whatever was there, so Bandit didn't have to use any more dirty tactics than he did. He began to unbutton his suit which seemed to be ruined now. While he was doing so he responded to the girl's response of him giving his name.

He slung the suit over his back while responding, "Nice to meet you Scout. Hope I'll see you around in the Game. Not! He let out a casual grin.

"Well, now I gotta go patch up this suit, so bye!" With that he walked away from the girl. Wow, she was aggressive and angry. Definitely not my style.

The arctic fox began walking back into the lobby, until he realized that he came out here to find Dirk. Luckily, it seemed like the furry critter was already captured by Trix, who was also making her way back over to him. Bandit gave a wave, as he made his way over. When he got closer, he could see that Trix had her arms around the escapee, which had bunch of flowers gripped in its tiny paws.

"Trix! You found Dirk! Sorry I couldn't help, I was, uh, tied down at the moment."

Trix looked at Bandit with a smile, "I see, well I found this runaway picking flowers on a tree."

Bandit blinked, "What? Your racoon likes flowers?"

"Mew." It responded. Holding up the blue colored flower to Bandit.

"Apparently." Trix said frowning at the response. "We never got to see these types of flowers in the tundra. I guess Dirk got really excited."

"Well whatever floats its boat." Bandit said, not really understanding the beauty in flowers.

"So what were you doing while I caught Dirk?"

"Well, I was... introducing myself to a new person I found. She was tall had white ears, man was she scary though."

"Really? That was the important business?"

The three began to walk back inside the lounge where a sea of mutants formed. They squeezed their way off to a corner, so that the tiny trio wouldn't get squished. Along the way Bandit told Trix about his meeting with Scout, omitting the detail about how he stole her jewel.

"Yeah, she like, threw me over her shoulder and was very tall."

"I'm sure she didn't appreciate you jumping on her though."

"Well, I guess not." He responded with his hand over his head. Bandit was practically dragging his suit on the ground now.

"Mew. Mew." Dirk said.

"Hey, I thought you were on my side!"

"Mew, mew mew mew." It said pointing with its flower at a pink haired girl in the corner.

"Huh?" Bandit said.

"I think Dirk wants to interact with the girl in the corner. She seems lonely."

Bandit slouched his back, not wanting to have more interactions. Plus, the girl in the corner had scary hazel eyes. It reminded him of a predator.

Straightening back up he sad, "She might want to be alone. It'd be rude to interrupt what she was doing."

"But she might want some company."

"Or alone time. Let's let her be."

"Well, there's only one way to find out." Trix said walking over.

"Mew." Dirk said as it pushed off of Trix's arm to lead the way over to the girl hunched over in the corner.

"W-wait, Trix! Dirk! It might me dangerous..." Giving up he chased after them.

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Edward Killedge Character Portrait: Ciara
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Edward Killedge
Username: forever2b | FC: Ky Kiske from Guilty Gear Series | | Speech Color | Thought Color |
Image
Edward carefully observed the girl's expressions as he pretend to flirt with her. Not once did her face show any sign of embarrassment or surprise. As a matter of fact, her face was blank, eyes half open, like she had just opened up. The elf knew he had good looks, any regular person that had interest in him would have fallen over at those words, or at least given some sort of emotional reaction. The reaction this red-head gave showed she was not adjusted to social norms of the human world. So she must have not grown up with humans.

Furthermore, if a human was to receive a name, they would give one back, and clearly this girl didn't, which meant that his point was right or that she was hiding something from him. However, he doubted that she was hiding her feeling from him, as she did give some sort of reaction, a moment where she released his hands, which indicated hesitation to him. It was more likely that this "girl" didn't know how to respond to such statements.

This conjecture was further supported by the fact that the girl gripped his hand tighter moments before responding, as if she was using all her brain power to come up with a response before deciding to focus back on to her hands-on ways. The way she responded back to him was also to note. She kept using the word "must" as if she wouldn't live without meeting humans or hearing his answer on a trivial question. From that he could gather, that these two concepts were very important for her. Why must she meet humans? He thought to himself.

If his theory about this girl was right, it must mean that whatever creature was inside the human wanted to spread itself throughout. Perhaps humans were its main feeding targets. He looked over at the girl's forearm as she pressed it against his chest. Outwardly, the elf maintained a calm expression, but he was pretty angry that this creature was going to ruin his clothes. The girl stepped close to him, positioning herself, so that if he were to back even a little bit, she would fall on top of him. He looked back into her eyes and smiled.

"You'll have to try better than that." He said to her demand for an answer for his ideal type.

Edward leaned forward bringing himself very close to the girl's face, as he wrapped his hand that wasn't holding the girl's around the girl's sender back. He could smell her sweet perfume, but the elf wasn't phased by her. In one motion he pulled her in, causing her chest to get close to his; the only thing keeping them from touching was her arm that she had on him. For a fraction of a second, their face was only separated by air that was as thin as paper. Using the momentum of the girl coming into him, Edward spun around, shifting the weight so that he was, now falling on her. Then, he stopped his momentum, catching the girl in his arms as a dancer would catch his partner to strike a final pose.

Then he brought her back up to stand straight creating great distance between them. Clearly, touch meant a lot to this creature. The only parts that were touching were the girl's and Edward's hand which the creature refused to let go. Such a persistent creature. He thought.

Setting

10 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Yeqon Character Portrait: Ljilja Character Portrait: Leo Behrends Character Portrait: Scout Character Portrait: Kore Character Portrait: Edward Killedge Character Portrait: Lamia Serose Character Portrait: Ciara Character Portrait: Quickshot Character Portrait: Bandit Sephilan
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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx #0EBFE9 | FC: #CD3333



The foyer began to illuminate, lights flashed from all sides, holo pods illuminating as fog filled the center of the room. "Ladies and gentlemen, mutants both big and small, please make your way to the foyer and put your hands together for this year's Overseers, Kore Mars and Yeqon Cryo!" They rose from a podium in the center, Kore's smile so wide, her cheeks hurt. It wasn't exaggerated, Kore was truly eager for this moment, having been waiting for it for so long. Kore stepped off of the podium first. She and Yeqon had done three run throughs of the orientation speech, not that he would say much to begin with, but hopefully he remembered his part.

Kore looked out at the crowd, at the fifty hopefuls whose faces were a mix of bemusement, entertainment, and fear. She swished her cape over her shoulder, Kore's form illuminated by the lights, the gold in her outfit sparkling as she took her place in center-stage. "Welcome everyone!" A hover mic floated near her, capturing her voice so that the speaker hidden throughout the area could make sure that everyone would hear. "I am sure you're all very eager to get to tonight's party, but first, we have a brief orientation with some important rules!"

"We're your hosts, Kore and-" she glanced at Yeqon, hoping that he was paying attention. "Let's get right into it," Kore clapped her hands together, the holograms suddenly changing to display the rules. "We have a few rules for the mutant living corridors. Our first and most important rule, is that you must wear your tag at all times. Those tags are your key to the world card and without them, you won't be able to enter the rooms or unlock your door." Kore's smile eased a bit, the tags were akin to wrist chips, only less permanent, since injecting a mutant with a small microchip wasn't exactly efficient. Not to mention the distrust mutants already had towards the humans.

"Our second rule is, please do not attempt to leave the living space. This is an area just for you all and if you are found wandering the ship, unescorted, you will be subject to discharge from the games." This was an important rule, for the safety of the humans. Not that the door would open from the inside anyway. "Our third rule! No violence in the hallways! Sparring is allowed in the gym, but murder is only allowed in the Game!"

Did they understand at all? Were the rules registering in their pea sized brains? Kore hoped so. "Those are the three most important rules! The rest can be found in your handbooks in your rooms. As for other important information, everything we talk about tonight will be in your handbooks." Kore clapped her hands together, glancing at Yeqon again to see what he was up to.

"Now, the Games will take you through four different environments. Before each game, your manager will brief you. You have one week until the first Game begins, during which you'll each have several interviews for the audience to get to know you! You'll want to nail these interviews, since the more sponsors you have, the more mini prizes you'll earn during the Games! This can be anything from a bowl of soup, to a jacket!" The screens illuminated to show clips from past years, of sponsored items being delivered to contestants.

"Your biggest interview will take place the evening before the Game begins. As for the space around you, you are free to use it to prepare! Eat to your heart's content, train until your arms fall off, and relax! Remember, the only way to back out is between Games, so make sure you know what you're doing! Now that, that's over with, let the party begin!" Balloons and colorful streamers suddenly rained from the ceiling. Music played from the speakers and the door opened to allow potential sponsors and managers in.

"What do you think Yeqon?" Kore turned to him, her smile sparkling. "See any potential winners?"

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Scout
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xxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #CD5C5C | Thought: #2F4F4F




Scout's ears flattened against her head in annoyance. It was too loud, the lights too bright. She squinted, backing up into a wall as the humans emerged from the center of the room in a rather flashy display. Scout reached to rest her arm insinctively on her sword hilt, realizing it wasn't there. With a sigh, the wolf ground her teeth together in annoyance, recalling that she had to give it to some humans to take care of until this was over. Instead, Scout crossed her arms and stood stoically in the corner. When she had gotten to the dessert table, the cookies had all been gone.

No matter, Scout was used to going days without eating, she could handle not having another cookie. Kore paraded around the stage, Scout watching, rather entertained until the rules were listed off. No violence until the Games. Duly noted, her hand went up to touch the hairpin, her teeth grinding in annoyance. She still hadn't gotten that gem back; Scout had let him off easy because her desire her for food outweighed her desire to protect a plastic gemstone.

Balloons rained from the ceiling, Scout looked up, watching as they fell like a rainbow crashing towards the ground. A streamer landed on her nose, silver and sparkly. "Humans are so strange," Scout murmured, a figure appearing by her side. "There you are," Aries grinned. Scout's glanced down at him, her face not moving so as not to disturb the confetti. "You've got something on your face," he reached up to pick it off, allowing it to fall to the floor. The wolf watched it flutter away in dismay, her tail drooping slightly. "Come on, I want to introduce you to some people. Play nice, okay? These guys are big dogs."

"Fine," Scout followed him. Three man were standing in a circle, each wearing maroon velvet suits. Big dogs, Aries had said. That was strange, they looked oddly human. "Aries!" One of the humans clapped her manager on the back. Aries winced slightly, causing Scout's mouth to tug downwards. Why did he let that human touch him like that? "Is this the mute?" Scout let out a low growl. Aries held a hand up, "Yes, this is Scout. Scout, these are the owners of Valve Corp, they're a large metal parts maker on Brother." Scout looked them up and down. Was she expected to say something? Aries glanced at her.

"Hello," Scout spoke at last. "Praise the Lord it speaks!" All three of them laughed. Scout frowned once more, her tail now stiff, apprehensive. "We like your style little mutant, well, I guess I can't say little," they all chuckled once again. Aries smiled, "I assume you saw the video?" He asked, his expression cold, calculating. "Yes, quite impressive, beating a man twice your size with just your fists. What brought it on?" They were drinking alcohol, the smell of it assaulting Scout's nose. "He insulted me," they laughed again, as though she had said something funny.

Scout wanted to vomit, the smell too strong. "Don't worry, we have no intention of doing that. As long as we can put our brand on your jacket, I think we'll get along just fine." A hand reached out, slapping Scout on the back. "Ah-" Aries grabbed her as Scout snapped, a growl emitting from her lips, which were parted into a snarl. Her tail stood up on end, her fur sticking up, ears alert and forward."I think Scout needs something to drink, something's stuck in her throat." Scout pushed against him, Aries struggling to extract her from the circle of drunkards and towards a table with drinks. "Get your hands off of me!" At last Aries released her, putting himself between her and the table so she wouldn't flip it. Scout paced, her fists clenching and unclenching, she wanted to punch something.

"Calm down, they're drunk. They don't mean any harm." He reached around, picking up a strong smeling fruity concoction. "Here, drink this. Settle your nerves. Don't worry, there's no alcohol in it." Scout sniffed it cautiously, but there was no tell-tale sting in her nostrils.

"Fine," she took a sip, Aries guiding her to a quiet corner of the room. "I'm going to close the deal, wait here. Okay? Try not to bite anyone's head off while I'm gone." Scout nodded, taking another sip. It was... sparkly, that was the only way Scout could describe the taste. She had no other way to explain the fruit sensation that coated her tongue. "I hate humans."

Setting

1 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Leo Behrends
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Location: Father











Lights, camera and action...What a fitting thing that comes to mind when the rather extravagant introduction happened as their host who introduced herself as Kore was giving them the rundown and rules. Of course for Leo after watching the games enough times he heard the rules enough times for it to be ingrained in his brain. But he was impressed by the choreography of the lights and mist that accompanied her speech. Looks like she was one for making things grand. So once her speech was over with streamers and balloons falling accompanied by music he began to applaud her performance. It was a good speech...Save for the fact that she was rather energetic for a host in a death game...

Leo gave a small sigh as he took another sip from his wine and looked around the room, Qiqi was busy talking to some people he did not know and saw her point to him causing the people she was talking at to look at him for a brief moment before turning their attention back to her. A blonde haired guy was seemingly in the middle of a romantic dance with a red haired girl who did not look all that fazed...The wolf girl looked like she was ready to rip someone's head off...And a bunch of others either interacting or avoiding people. Well he had his fill of a comfy chair for one day, might as well get up and see who was up for a talk. And that he did.

However his little adventure came to a halt as he saw Qiqi leading three women to his location. Uh oh...Look presentable Leo...Any crumbs...No, thank goodness...He took a breath as he made himself look as presentable as he could. Cup that was full with wine in hand, suit with no food on it and a small smile. The group of four soon were within arms reach of him. "So this is the mutant you are managing Qiqi? I would think you were telling us a lie if it were not for the fact of that robotic arm he has. What fine work on this specimen." One woman dressed with a sparkling blue dress spoke as she slowly examined him and slowly walked around him like he was some sort of piece of art.

"I'm glad you enjoy this Miss. This is my newest makeup product that I have been perfecting, although he may not be feminine or female. As you three can see even this oil slicked mutant looks like a brilliant man. And if a mutant can look like this imagine that on your beautiful bodies ladies. This would be perfect for any model." She smiled as she stood next to Leo looking proud. This little spiel caused the women to whisper among each other, nodding softly seemingly discussing among each other. Of course with his ears more alert than a normal human he could listen to what they were talking about, but when they were simply complimenting the work done and talking about business he decided not to listen any more as he did not need to know.

Soon after they finished their discussion the three turned to Qiqi with smiles. "We are greatly impressed by your work. We would like to schedule a time for a Fotoshoot. I believe we have a few pages available in this month's beauty section. And when the girls see that section on their Holo Tab's they will simply eat it up. Now come, let us leave this mutant behind for now to further discuss details." The woman in the blue dress spoke as the four left as quickly as they appeared...Well...He felt like an object at that moment but that was to be expected...But he soon sighed once more taking a sip from his glass. At least he hoped he made a good impression but at least he could return to see who he could talk to...It was best to make some allies at least...But who to talk to...From what he can see everyone seemed to be busy. This made this a bit difficult. And there was a good chance he would be presented to more people from his manager...He ultimately decided to sit back down. Might as well wait until things calm down a bit. This was after all where people were going to meet potential sponsors, and they might decide whether you get vital aid when you're down on your luck during the game or left to die...

As such he decided to put his faith in Qiqi...If his manager was getting people to look at him then he could be hopeful that some sponsors would look his way.

Setting

4 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Yeqon Character Portrait: Ljilja Character Portrait: Kore Character Portrait: Quickshot
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Cayde was about three beers in and fairly disappointed when the pit crew arrived with his new equipment.

All the technology in the world and they choose to forgo flavor. Nonetheless, he wasn’t one to refuse free things and the less he needed to unmask himself the better. His face was a well kept secret on the ship, seen only by Halo, Renee, the pit crew, and the creator of the Game of Pursuit. At first he balked at the idea of showing his true identity; however, he was at the mercy of his manager and they were adamant that they could see him in his entirety. Plus, they needed to make sure he wouldn't tamper with anyone else's equipment.

”It’s not that nobody trusts you. We just need to ensure that the game stays fair for everyone involved.”

”So you don’t trust me to play fair.”

”It’s not about me.”

Quickshot sighed, crushing his empty can before inspecting his armor. After making sure all of the adjustments had taken hold, he donned his mask and left the dressing room. There were no more scratches, dents, or scuffs; they buffed away all of his experiences over the past year. It felt simultaneously freeing and melancholic. All of that time spent wandering in the Wastelands was gone, but so were the days leading up to his separation from his family. He supposed this would be an opportunity to create new experiences, one of which would lead to winning the Game of Pursuit.

With his cape over his shoulders and the pit crew sworn to silence, he departed for the lounge where a fair number of competitors had made themselves comfortable. He wasn't keen on mingling with others, primarily because they were mostly younglings, pretty much all of whom wouldn't be older than his daughter (who he was careful to keep an eye out for).

Each of them appeared to have taken a different approach, some mimicking Prime, some taking a ballroom approach. Some opted for simplicity. It seemed that regardless of aesthetic preferences, their managers had the final say. Everyone was just a tool for their amusement.

Before he could find a place to settle however, lights flashed, fog filled the room, and a pair of humans emerged from the podium.

"Ladies and gentlemen, mutants both big and small, please make your way to the foyer and put your hands together for this year's Overseers, Kore Mars and Yeqon Cryo!"

Quickshot didn't know much about either of them, but it seemed like Kore (the shorter and perkier of the two) was leading the show. All of the information she mentioned was common sense so he had to resist the urge to roll his eyes as she continued speaking (not that anyone could tell).

Frowning at the gaudy display, he swatted away a stray balloon. So far, Halo proved to be the closest thing to an ally on the ship and he had no issue with that. He didn't expect anyone to sponsor him nor did he intend on courting anyone. The citizens of the capital must have watched countless interviews and trying too hard to stand out would be his undoing. If he had nothing to say, it would be easier to say nothing at all.

He turned to meet the gaze of a red haired man with tattoos covering his chest. The feral look in his eyes reeked of aggression, a blind demand for a fight that would never come. Each passerby was treated to the same provocative glare, but nobody seemed to take the bait.

It was honestly kind of pathetic.

The cybernetic mutant turned away from the other competitor, deciding that the better option would be finding a less crowded space so that if anybody did swing by, they would come one at a time.

Seeing a large, unoccupied tree near the balcony, he walked over and took a seat on the grass. The faint scent of lavender was comforting even if it was artificial and...seemingly from nowhere. He glanced behind him, pausing at the sight of a blue-haired girl. She couldn’t have been more than twelve years old and her outfit didn’t seem to do her any favors. There was no good reason for her to be in this competition and yet, there couldn’t be any other reason why a mutant would be on Father.

You’re here too huh, he thought to himself with a sigh.

"Good luck to you." Cayde whispered, more to himself than to her.

Setting

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Character Portrait: Jax
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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #919191 | Thought: #D8BFD8



Jax swirled the contents of his wine glass, standing beside Axel as a human woman fawned over his tail. "So immaculate," she cooed, reaching out to pet it. Jax was used to being treated like a toy, an object to be admired and played with. The woman ran her fingers through his fur, the sound she made making Jax slightly uncomfortable. Things like this were why Jax loved New Earth. No one looked at him like this. "Well Madame Vonda, if you'd like, I can arrange a private interview, if you do decide to sponsor Mr. Bug," Jax's smile was pleasant, but did not quite reach his eyes. "It would be an honor," he took Madame Vonda's hand, kissing her palm. "To make more intimate acquaintance with you." He winked, Madame Vonda seeming to melt on the spot. She fanned herself with her free hand, her cheeks heating up to the same color as her bright red lipsticks.

"Well, I think we can arrange something." She cooed, Jax releasing her hand. He turned away as Axel stepped forward to seal the deal, subtly wiping his mouth on a napkin. Her hands smelled like citrine and dogwood, her perfume was clashing with whatever hand lotion she had on. "Jax," Axel cleared his throat. "There is another sponsor waiting to meet you," he indicated towards the line of humans. While Jax's smile remained polite, inside he felt sick.

The party, the music, the wine, the combination of it was resurfacing memories he would have rather kept drowned. "I need a quick break," Jax spoke softly. "A break?" Axel repeated, bemused. Jax nodded, Axel shifting, pondering the idea. "Two more, then you can go." Jax internally groaned, but faced forward. He made a show of greeting the small crowd, wanting to vomit. "You are quite the unique looking mutant," a woman with a hat made of feathers commented, "easy on the eyes." The feeling of nausea doubled down.

"Thank you," Jax's voice remained soft. "Alright, how much?" She turned to Axel. "A help basket is 1,000 Viz. A name is 10,000." She looked Jax up and down once more, as though to determine his value. "Alright, I'll go for 1,000." She reached her wrist out, Axel ushing a pocket pod to scan it. "Thank you, we greatly appreciate your sponsorship." Jax waved as she walked away, seemingly satisfied with herself. "I want a name on the first Game," a man winked. "It seems like the ladies have their eyes on you."

"Mr. Desmond, what a generous contribution. Do you want to arrange a private interview?" The man flapped his wrist and shook his head. "No need, I'm not interested in men. Although with a face like that, who knows, maybe I'll change my mind." He winked, holding out his wrist for Axel to scan with the pocket pod. Jax's tail flickered with something akin to contempt. "Nerves getting to you?" Axel asked as they moved away from the line of humans and towards the refreshments.

"What nerves?" Axel replied, picking up another glass of wine. He was going to need it if he was to make it through the night.

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By Shade of Tree

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Exploding with light and sound, the once-harmonious foyer became, in an instant, a dazzling spectacle equal parts garish and impressive. Fog consumed the ground, concealing it from view, set aglow from all sides, as if the entire floor had taken to the skies. Spectators gathered obediently with artificial clouds forming at their feet, rounded up by a thunderous announcement from a bold but unseen voice. From beneath the clouds rose two glimmering figures, taking center stage, heralded by the shout of their names: "Kore Mars and Yeqon Cryo!" The demand for applause that accompanied their arrival was met with a few scattered, tepid claps; too many of the uninitiated were left shielding their eyes from the beaming pageantry to show their appreciation. The show continued nonetheless.

Despite the ludicrous pomp, there was refreshingly little ado. The aforementioned Kore Mars, a bubbly young hostess adorned in shimmering gold, quickly laid down some ground rules:

  1. Competitor tags must be worn at all times.
  2. Attempting to leave the competitor space is forbidden.
  3. Violence is strictly limited to the gym and is for training purposes only.
    1. Except in the Games, where murder is encouraged.
Competitors would have one week to prepare, during which training and interviews could be conducted. These interviews were their only chance at obtaining boons during the Games, without which they would be left to fend for themselves.

Ljilja shuddered at the prospect of being left alone in a foreign land, tasked with killing those around her. Yet this was the true nature of the competition she had just entered. She leant her weight upon the tree trunk beside her, becoming nauseous and weak-kneed for the second time that day. A masked competitor more than twice her size took a seat not far from her. With prosthetic limbs and a body more metal than skin, he towered over her. She whimpered as he spoke, a raspy sound that chilled her to the bone:

"Good luck to you."

Ljilja's voice caught in her throat as thoughts of the morbid fates that might await her flooded her mind, her words a choked-up squeal. "Y-yo-you, too."

Her legs bade her to leave, but had hardly the strength. She tried to stand up straight, utilizing the tree's support ever more earnestly. And then came the flood.

In the dozens, managers and interested parties were released, seeking out their competitors for on-the-spot interviews to determine their suitability for sponsorship. It was a feeding frenzy, the floor rapidly being overwhelmed with the excited chatter of negotiation and commerce. Deals were made, Viz exchanged, futures secured—winners and losers, the very outcome of the Games hanging in the balance.

The importance and weight of sponsorship struck Ljilja all at once, and she realized with horror that, while other competitors were awash with a veritable deluge of interest from would-be benefactors, she stood at the outskirts with not...a...one.

The smile she held for appearances broke at once. She stepped forth from the tree, staggering slowly at first, pace building into a sprint. She ran for the exit.

A familiar grip took hold of her just short of the doors.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Ljilja struggled against the grasp of her manager, Jaden, whose insistence on her participation was beginning to grow very thin.

"Out—I want out," she tearfully replied.

"You haven't even started yet."

"I can't do this!" she cried.

Keeping hold of her arm, Jaden escorted Ljilja past the opaque glass doors once more. Then, he took her by the shoulders and gazed down at her, sternness growing in his crimson eyes. With a modicum of privacy, he pressed the matter.

"What's this about?" he asked.


"They—they're going to kill me," she sobbed, hanging her head to avoid his gaze.

"Only if you let them," he answered, though his words were small comfort.

"Look at me!" she demanded. "N-nobody wants me! You know why?! Because I am plankton out there, waiting to be eaten!" She collapsed to the floor, sitting with her knees to her chest. "If I join, I'll die."

"That's not what Sonja thinks."

Ljilja gasped, shooting her puffy-eyed gaze upward. Then her face contorted to a bitter frown. "No lies," she grumbled.

"No lies. I did a little research while you were getting your makeover. Your little fin friend is watching for you on the holos."

Ljilja cast her gaze back down to her knees.

"And she thinks you can win."

"Glupa Sonja," she muttered to herself.

"Winning is different things to different people, you know. You don't have to make it to the end," Jaden added. "Survive a couple rounds and you'll go home a hero. Make me enough money and I can even arrange a transfer for your family."

He had done his research. Ljilja never swore, but she was sorely tempted to make an exception.

"All you have to do is survive."

"What about sponsors...?"

"The less support you have, the more profitable when you succeed anyway."

"But I'll die out there..." Ljilja sniffled.

"Not if you train and I do my research. Have I done it?"

Ljilja begrudgingly nodded.

"So what do you need to do?"

"Train..."

Jaden extended his hand to help lift Ljilja up to her feet. She took hold of it and stood.

Wiping the tears from her eyes, Ljilja sniffled again and, with the urging of her manager, entered the opaque glass doors one last time. Trembling like a leaf, she joined the crowd at the foyer and did her best not to draw attention—although a girl of her stature with such apparent evidence of recent weeping was not the easiest sight to ignore.

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Character Portrait: Ljilja Character Portrait: Scout Character Portrait: Quickshot
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xxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #CD5C5C | Thought: #2F4F4F




Sit, stay, play nice, don't bite people. Scout felt like a dog and less like a mutant. The wolf stood in the corner, swishing the drink in her hand around as she waited for Aries to return. Scout was growing bored, the music was too loud and it was making her ears hurt. Her tail drooped in annoyance, they had one week to prepare, but she had a feeling that it would mostly be spent being pulled out of training for interviews. Did Scout really need sponsors? No, Scout was confident she could make it through these games on her own.

Some of the competitors looked serious, while others seemed too soft to be here. Scout placed her drink down and cracked her knuckles, this would be a good time to do some spying. Gather information on other competitors and scope out the competition, since she had been too busy sulking before to do that. First, however, another cookie was in order.

Scout spotted a table full of them and made a bee line, picking up three and hiding behind a group of human women, dressed like a flock of flamingos and cooing about some mutant they had just met. Between their heels and funny hats, Scout blended in perfectly. "Oh, excuse me." One of them noticed her standing there, Scout stiffened, her tail upright. It seemed as though her hiding place was not as good as she had originally thought. "Sorry," Scout mumbled, shifting awkwardly. Conversation wasn't exactly Scout's forte.

"What an ugly thing you are," their ringleader spoke and her gaggle of women laughed. Their various feathered hats shook with amuesement. "With a face like that, I don't think you're one to talk." Scout replied, shoving an entire cookie into her mouth. The woman's eyes widened in shock and confusion. No doubt this was the first time she had ever had to question her own image. Scout smiled to herself, "Wow, now that I look at all of you, you're all really unattractive." Her grin grew into a smirk, her tail swishing back and forth. They were like chickens standing underneath a hungry wolf, cowering together.

"If you'll excuse me, I have to go be ugly somewhere else." Scout smiled as she walked away, the colorful lights making her wince. They reminded her of Enforcers and cops, the red and blue sirens that would chase her and Mercy across the desert of the Wastes.

Scout caught a glance at her reflection in one of the glass walls. The scar on her face had been highlighted with makeup, her eyes smattered with glitter and her lipstick non-existent since hse had licked it off. Scout felt awkward in a dress, as though it was not made for her. At the very least, her ori was covered by the tall boots Selena had picked out. The feathers in her hairclip were like something of a joke; Scout was no angel. "What are you doing here Scout?" She whispered to herself, sticking out like a sore thumb. What would Mercy say if he could see Scout now?

"You can do this," her hands balled into fists. If Selena hadn't cut her nails and painted them a girly shade of pink, no doubt they would be stabbing into her palms about now. Scout whirled around, determined. She stuffed another cookie into her mouth, removing the final traces of lipstick and headed back into the crowd. The first thing her eyes laid on were what looked like a kid, being pulled on by her white haired manager.

She was short, with blue hair and eyes. She was a mutant, there was no doubt about that, she reminded Scout somewhat of a frog. "So small," Scout murmured. Should the wolf approach her? Would she scare her? She was a competitor too, but it didn't seem as though her manager was interested in gathering sponsors.

"Hey," Scout tried to be casual, she was feeling less angry now that she had eaten. "Why is a kid here?"

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Character Portrait: Edward Killedge Character Portrait: Ciara
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A contrast from the light measured scrunization the handsome elf was imparting onto her, Ciara's glances were as dry and lifeless as her droopy gaze looked. However, fortunately, her forms of study were not performed by mere eyes.

As she continued to press and grind against him, her body could feel his thoughts. Not to the point of reading him directly, but her normally scattered and unreliable perception was shaped by the flavors of his musings. While she preferred strong, more passionate emotions, she wasn't one to complain about a free meal (though this elf's dagger-like perusing was neither tasty nor sustainable).

However, either the man did not have a shared opinion with Ciara on personal space (or lack-there-of) or his perceptions truly had led him to figuring out why exactly she was so intent on touching him. Before she knew it, he had twirled her idly slightly life-less body about, bringing her close, breaking the space, teasing more intimate gestures only to dip her and plop her a few steps away. While Ciara wasn't usually one to shift her own resting expression, the fruitless dance was enough to even have the dreary slime girl wear a slight pout.

Even as the overseer spoke in an overly grandiose manner, Ciara turned her ears off to stare at her current target. Whether he chose to look away to listen or drop his grasp on her, she cared not. Continuing to latch on and stare into him with uncharacteristically determined red orbs.

It didn't help that she felt his anger before. A topic for further discussion as her hurried words were preceded with a quiet huff. "I can feel it. You are angry with me..you resent me." Shedding light onto her abilities, she took a ired step forward in an attempt to close the distance, not to the point where they were touching, but to the point where another would lead to just that.

"I mustn't let you go until you tell me why."

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In the Company of Wolves

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Note: This post was written collaboratively and then reformatted with approval from both parties.



Towering a full foot above Ljilja was a lupine competitor adorned in white, whose elegant attire belied her violent nature. Animalistic, black-tipped ears stood alert upon her head, their fur blending seamlessly with bushy silver hair. Her once claw-like nails were filed down to smooth tips, and her rough-soled feet were forced into heeled boots, but her confident stance and posture displayed that she knew well the disparity of strength between herself and the miniscule girl before her.

She called out to Ljilja over the din of the music. “Hey. Why is a kid here?"

The young girl froze in place, looking up to her accuser. She sniffled, her bright blue eyes made red and puffy by the exchange she had with her manager minutes prior. She lacked the willpower to bluster in reply—grandstanding was for the more vicious competitors—neither did she possess the stature to support a proper retort.

“I…um…s-same as you…my number got picked,” she stammered, averting her eyes and folding her hands near the hem of her dress.

It was a fair question. Most of the other competitors were larger, older, stronger; even those smaller than her wore viciousness like a familiar garment to ward against those who would look down on them or see them as easy prey. However, none of them seemed as peculiarly vulnerable as Ljilja. She was an anomaly among mutants, without a doubt the ostensibly weakest competitor. Was that why she had tried to leave; why her manager was not courting sponsors like the others; why she now stood alone?

Ljilja stood meekly, instinctively bunching her shoulders inward to appear even smaller under the scrutiny of her foe, who leaned forward and narrowed her eyes to examine her more closely. “I thought there was an age minimum,” she remarked.

Ljilja sniffled again, unable to muster a proper reply. Her gaze went to her little blue flats as her head and heart sunk. This is it, she thought, I'm finished...

Not receiving an answer, the mercenary continued. “What’s your name, kid?”

Gripping fistfuls of her skirt for strength, she timidly answered, “Ljilja,” following up with a polite “May I ask yours?”

The tall mercenary swished her fluffy tail to and fro in thought, standing up straight and putting her hands on her hips. After a pause that felt like an eternity, she replied, “Scout.”

“That’s a cool name.”

The music in the background changed, and the tone of the conversation with it. People rarely issued compliments to Scout, and when they did, it was usually in spite or fearful admiration. What’s more, it was an outlier’s opinion—most regarded her name as ‘silly’ or ‘stupid,’ not so much a name as it was a word.

“Nice to meet you,” Ljilja added with a nervous curtsy.

It would have been easy to end the conversation on a whim and walk away, but a strange curiosity in Scout’s chest anchored her to Ljilja, who seemed utterly defenseless. It was not, after all, out of fear or respect that Scout approached her. But what, then, was her aim?

“Where are you from?” Scout inquired.

As Ljilja’s sniffles died down, the faintest hint of a smile formed across her face. A little spark returned to her eyes as she angled her head up to gaze at her fellow competitor. “MC-4008. But…we just call it Fort Kate. It’s a mountain-island out in the ocean,” Ljilja answered.

“Never heard of it,” Scout curtly replied. Briefly, she wondered what such a place would be like, and bristled at the thought of mist-soaked cliffs and rocky shores. To say Scout was not fond of water would be putting it very lightly.

The worry and anxiety in Ljilja's eyes faded as the conversation built momentum. “What about you? Where are you from?”

“The Wastes—” Scout explained, her vocabulary, as always, getting right to the point. “A Dead City called Ertha. It's near...where those big triangles were.”

“Oh, the Pyramids! My dad told me stories about those when I was little,” Ljilja piped up eagerly.

“Yeah, those.” Scout felt foolish for not recalling the name of such a defining detail about her homeland. It wasn’t that she had forgotten, but…something about this little creature was occupying her mind. She’d seen similar looks on the faces of children she’d rescued or orphaned, recalling the wideness of their eyes from cover as she slaughtered their keepers. Scout never used to wonder what happened to those young ones when her job was complete—why is it that she could not help thinking about them now?

An unexpected line of questioning pulled Scout from her thoughts. “Are they really gone? What’s it like at Ertha? How do you get water out there?”

Scout scratched her cheek, surprised that Ljilja was still talking with her, much less showing interest. “Yeah, they’re gone,” she replied. Suddenly, Scout found herself to be the one avoiding eye contact, withered from Ljilja’s inquisitive peppering. “It’s tall; Ertha,” Scout explained, gesturing wide with her arms, “it’s built upwards, like most of the cities. It goes beneath the ground, too—that’s where our water comes from. There are pipes that carry it all throughout the city, but water is scarce and expensive.”

As Scout spoke, Ljilja gave nods and hums of confirmation to assure she was interested and paying attention. The music changed before she had an opportunity to reply. This new song was louder and far more annoying than the last, forcing Ljilja to speak up. “That’s really cool! I mean the pipes, not…water being hard to find. Um, do you maybe want to talk somewhere quieter?” she suggested.

“Yes!” Scout declared a bit too enthusiastically, her tail swishing suddenly, eager to leave the noise and retreat to a place that wouldn’t hurt her ears. It brought a warm smile to Ljilja’s face, and a reserved grin to Scout’s in return.

Ljilja reached her hand out to take Scout’s, then froze and retracted it with an apologetic bow. This wasn’t Fort Kate—she could not be certain her new friend would react well to such a forward and friendly gesture. It seemed she made the right choice, as Scout visibly recoiled in response to her approaching hand. Ljilja remorsefully balled her little palm into a fist and murmured a “Sorry” to cover her indiscretion.

“Where should we go?” Scout asked.

“Anywhere but here!” Ljilja answered before skittering off in an arbitrary direction away from the foyer. She hoped Scout would follow.

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Character Portrait: Leo Behrends
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Location: Father











Oh boy...He has been sitting on his chair for long enough to feel that the cushion was shaping up to fit his backside better...He can talk fine but approaching these people was definitely a challenge...People were talking to each other, exacting pleasantries or displeasures, eating and all manners of other things. Simply just strutting in when a lot of people were busy in the main lobby was definitely not going to work for him. Leo gave a small sigh and a smile as he stood up and walked over to one of the food tables and grabbed some cake, cookies and filled up his glass with juice instead of wine. He rather not drink himself under the table...And Juice would at least quench some of his thirst.

Once he filled up on food and drink he decided to leave the bustling and noisy lobby outside to where there was a tree and grass overlooking a nice view of the clouds behind a window. Man...This was certainly peaceful...He dug into his suit feeling around for a pack but realized he turned those in...And there was a sign that said no smoking anyways so even if he had his cigarettes he would not be able to smoke anyways. A shame as well, this was a perfect scenario to just sit back and just admire the passing of time. "Well...That's too bad, I guess I might as well work on making a crust for this pie instead...Not quite a smoke but at least its productive." He laughed to himself as he approached a patch of grass and noticed a feminine figure already simply sitting there peacefully...Long teal colored hair, small little goat like horns, and a...Dress? Outfit? He was never much of a fashion person so clothing was as foreign to him as the moon in the sky...But that was besides the point, the woman who was sitting soon plucked some blades of grass and began eating it.

With his curiosity peaked by this he made himself known as he approached. "Hey there, mind if I take a seat as well?" He called out and gave a small friendly wave as the woman looked back to him, a bit jolted by his sudden words but quickly calmed down. She gave a nod in response as Leo took a seat and began to fiddle with the cookies on the plate. "Thanks, I promise I'm not trying to be weird or anything. I wanted to talk to more people but the lobby is packed with people so trying to get to know people was a bit of a challenge...My name is Leo, Leo Behrends." He gave a small smile as he spoke as the woman nodded and looked at the plate in his hands. "I'm Safia, and what are you eating?" She asked as the white haired lizard man nodded. "I think its cake and...Small circles like sweet things. I actually don't know the name but they taste nice. Ah, if you don't mind actually do you wanna try out one of my recipes? It's a cake with the circle sweets crushed into crumbs and used as a crust." He offered the plate to Safia. Of course...She looked at him with a questionable stare...Yeah...When a person meets you for the first time, in a death game, and offers you food...Not everyone is going to be trusting of that.

Leo took his fork and cut off a piece of cake and put it in his mouth. "I promise it's safe." He gave a small smile as Safia eventually took his plate and began to eat the cake. He gave a small sigh as he closed his eyes. Well he broke the ice at the very least. But he just hopes she likes the three pieces of his custom recipe. "Good." Came the response of Safia as Leo opened his eyes and saw a plate devoid of all food on it. Wait a minute he just closed his eyes for less than ten seconds...Well...Despite how fast she ate it there was a small smile on her face. And a small feeling of accomplishment fluttered in his chest. Although he did not cook it, he took joy knowing that a recipe made on the fly was good for someone. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm actually a cook but since we don't have to forage around for ingredients to cook while we are up here I decided to open my mind up some more to see what sort of combinations I could come up with and see if I can replicate some things when we are no longer on Father...Anyways, I should not bother you for too long. Take care of yourself Safia." Leo spoke as he stood up and began to walk away to a nice spot and sat down to watch the clouds for a bit. He took a sip of his juice as he relaxed.

"Making better relations through this game?...That's as believable as using a pastry as a generator cog and believing it will last for a whole day...I have to talk to more people and explore more. The more I know the better my chances to help others here...Still...Eating grass...Hrm..." Leo thought to himself as he plucked a blade of grass and took a bite out of it. "Bleh! Tasted like artificial sewage!" He coughed and spat out the blade of grass. That was dumb...Nice going Leo...

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Character Portrait: Ljilja Character Portrait: Scout
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The Wolf Catches the Fish

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Ljilja was Scout's ticket away from the terrible noise and blinding lights, but her quick little footsteps were difficult for Scout to match. She had to walk slowly in long strides, the small girl before her deftly weaving through the crowd like a fish navigating an impassable school of sea creatures. For her part, Scout felt like a shark, and probably resembled one too, with her silvery ears peeking out high above the sea of mutants. Out of the corner of her eye, Scout spotted motion from a cam, nearly flush against a metal wall, rotating its mechanical eye to capture their movements. Clever, she thought.

Scout paused in front of a door, thumbing towards it. “How about in here?” Scout suggested over the continuing cacophony of music and chatter. Their destination was unclear, but it was away, and that was good enough for her.

Ljilja froze at the suggestion. “Really…?” Ljilja murmured, to which Scout tilted her head in confusion. What was wrong? “I mean, I guess I should be training, but…”

Scout gave Ljilja a puzzled look, then glanced at the door to see if she could reason out the problem. She could not read the sign that read ‘Gym,’ but it was the only place that made Ljilja's response make sense. “No! No,” Scout explained, “It's just t-to get away.” Scout began to shuffle her feet in front of the door, feeling the weight of the faux pas.

Ljilja uneasily swayed from side to side, perhaps weighing the likelihood that she would be eaten if she went into a room alone with the wolflike competitor. She drew a breath, then answered, “Well… alright,” before slowly raising her wrist to unlock the door. The aperture hummed its acknowledgement and slid open. Ljilja spared one last nervous glance in Scout’s direction before stepping inside and disappearing into the darkened threshold within.

Scout tailed her eagerly and the door slid shut behind them. Soft light panels gradually illuminated the room, revealing a broad training area and, one by one, the facilities that lay within.

Lining the wall were dummy weapons, prop swords, spears, and to the other end, a shooting range for bows and guns. In the center was a sparring ring, hallmarked by large gray mats with a white circle. Slightly elevated on a platform above them was a row of chairs surrounded by screens, and behind them was a glass box for spectators to watch the competitors. At the far end of the space was a pool, its surface yet undisturbed. “Wow,” Scout murmured under her breath.

An enormous fan above them had begun to spin, circulating the air. A shiver ran down Scout’s spine as she recalled . “This place is huge.”

Ljilja, whose manager had failed to give her a tour given how close she had arrived to orientation, was hardly certain where her room was, much less knowing what all was in the gym. But it did not take very long for her to spot the pool. Her shoulders straightened, her eyes fixated on it immediately, glittering like tiny stars on a clear night. “Look-look! Water!” she exclaimed, and like an eager dog ran to its edge, circling it eagerly. There was a fondness in her gaze as for a long-departed friend. She could hardly keep from leaping right in but for the fact that it would ruin her dress.

Her shout drew Scout’s attention, who looked down from the fan and awkwardly scratched at her forearm. “Yeah,” she answered as she turned her eyes towards the pool.

Where Scout remained planted in place, Ljilja moved like a hummingbird, her excitement taking her from one end of the gym to the next. But in the midst of her excitement, something strange began to happen. Her side suddenly felt tight, her breathing growing ragged. She grasped at her side and winced, then padded carefully back to Scout. “Sorry…” Ljilja’s breath hitched, a slight hiss. “Guh, went… too fast.”

Scout, in the meanwhile, was watching Ljilja with slight amusement. She was in no rush to explore the gym, knowing that she would probably spend most of the week in here. In any case, Scout felt right to lead Ljilja here - this was much more amusing than the party. “You move fast,” Scout said, gesturing to the mats in the sparring ring. “Need a seat?”

Ljilja heaved for breath, her voice dry and hoarse. “That or dive.” Her eyes scanned the area, looking for anything to relieve the desert that had blossomed in her throat. “Pardon me,” Ljilja muttered, sighting a fountain of reprieve. She walked slowly, her steps deliberate, until she reached it.

Sensing her presence, the fountain began to spurt water from its spigot, a blue light indicating that it was on. Ljilja guzzled water down like a camel spotting an oasis in the desert. After a moment she straightened and wiped her lip on her arm, replenished. She returned looking as though nothing had happened.

It was one thing to enjoy water, but it was another to be dependent on it. The first game was going to be in the Wastes; how would Ljilja survive?

The wolf hardly minded the situation, using the pause as an excuse to observe the wooden swords on the wall. Scout lifted one from its resting place, giving it a few swings. The weight of it felt unimpressive in her hands, slightly off-balance somehow. “Better?” she queried, replacing the sword as she watched Ljilja approach.

“Much!” Ljilja announced, her voice unfazed and chipper.

They sat together on a nearby mat. It was brand new, the smell of it like a blow to the nostrils for Scout’s sensitive nose. Scout sat with her legs spread in front of her, arms propping her up from behind. Her tail swished as Ljilja took a seat across from her.

Her bright blue eyes traced over Scout’s features - her scars, her black-tipped ears, her fluffy silver tail. Respectful awe reflected in her gaze. “Do you like being tall?” Ljilja bluntly asked, free of reservations. She sheepishly glanced over herself, adding, “I don’t like how small I am.”

Scout glanced at Ljilja with a bewildered expression before looking up at the ceiling, watching the fan spin lazily around them. “Do I…?” she trailed off, peering upwards as though the answer were written on the ceiling somewhere. “No,” she finally answered, looking down again and sizing up Ljilja. She was small and cute, her skin unblemished, as far as Scout could see at least. “Everyone tells me I’m too tall,” ‘too tall for a girl,’ ‘lanky,’ ‘awkward...’ “Being small is better. When you’re small, people want to protect you.” Maybe if Scout had been small and vulnerable, she reasoned, her parents might have stuck around.

Ljilja blinked in disbelief; she supposed Scout was right about the last part, but wondered what inspired her to respond that way. "But, like...you could...you know...actually hurt me. And I couldn't do anything about it," she murmured. "If I were bigger, I could fight back." It was clear that Ljilja was insecure in this area, uncertain about her own abilities.

Scout abruptly laughed, the sound harsh and grating. “Size doesn’t matter in a fight; I’ve seen people shorter than you take down dogs bigger than me.” She jerked a thumb in her own direction, a fanged grin highlighting her expression. “If you’re worried about a fight, it’s your stamina you should work on.” Scout had seen her run herself ragged with little more than a few minutes of running. “Besides, you can just get someone bigger than you to protect you.”

Ljilja’s expression morphed into a frown. The little fish did not count herself well-versed in matters like fights and allegiances, so she had little room to argue Scout’s point. “But…still,” she protested, her cheeks puffing out. “This is a competition - everyone’s out for themselves,” she answered before looking down at her lap and balling her little hands into fists on the mat. “People will target me because I’m easy prey.” She grit her teeth and trembled.

Scout leaned forward. “What do you want to win for anyway?” Scout wasn’t much for pep talks or getting people to believe in themselves - motivational speeches were Mercy’s purview.

“I want to win…” she went silent, her voice as soft and gentle as an ocean breeze. “Because I want to be with my family. I’ve worked on Fort Kate as long as I can remember… I’ve never even met my Mother. I want to.” She sighed and furrowed her brows, the pain poorly masked.

There was always a family. Mercy had told Scout that she was lucky she had no family. Family made people weak, it held them back. “What about your Dad?”

“He died, she answered - bluntness seemed to flow freely from the small creature, no room for pretense. “Was...last year.” She cleared her throat and jerked her head upright to look at Scout, eager for a change of subject. “What about you?” she asked, swiping at her eyes to check that they were dry. “Why did you sign up?”

Scout paused as she contemplated telling her; Aries had to practically pull teeth to get her to talk. Eventually, though, Scout sighed with resignation. She leaned forward, unzipping one of her boots to reveal the tell-tale black marks of Ori on her skin. “I’m gonna die,” she said at last, with no hint of malice or bitterness. “So I want to go out with a bang.”

Scout zipped her boot back up slowly to conceal the ugly marks. “Sorry,” Ljilja murmured instinctively. Sorry - sorry! - everyone was always sorry for Scout. Ori was a death sentence for any mutant.

“What if you win?” Ljilja prodded.

“If I win…” Scout trailed off, “then I’ll be able to afford the surgery to get rid of it.” As long as she did it before stage 3, Scout could be cured. Scout brought her knees up to her chest, hugging her legs against her. Ljilja too, did as such, her chin leaning on her knees.

Ljilja cast her eyes downward, the fish’s voice quieting to a whisper. “I probably shouldn’t tell you this,” she began to say, prompting Scout to lean forward, “but I’m going to give up after a few rounds, if I survive. I hope… I hope you win.”

Her smile was bright and hopeful. It made Scout’s blood boil. “You’re giving up before the game’s begun.” Her teeth ground together. Scout hated people like that, people with such weak resolve. “What about your dream to see your Mom? You’re just gonna give up on it?” Her tail was stiff, ears set forward with displeasure and suspicion.

Ljlija shook her head, “Winning isn’t winning,” she parroted in desperation. “My manager says that no one who wins this game wins the normal way.” She hugged herself, her arms tightening around her legs. “He says I just have to survive the first few games… then… then for sure I’ll be reunited with Mama.”

“So you’re just gonna cheat?” Any warmth in Scout’s voice had vanished. “Take the money and run? What if he’s lying to you?” Scout should not have gotten her hopes that this was a potential… friend. People like Ljilja, they came into her life and left just as quickly, because everyone left Scout eventually.

No one cared about her long enough to stick around.

Ljilja raised her palms defensively. “No! No, I’ll play fair…” she trailed off, searching in vain for an explanation that would satisfy Scout. “There can only be one winner, right?” Her voice grew soft and weary. “And that isn’t going to be me… so I have to leave before the end.” Ljilja glanced at her wolfish companion. “If he’s lying, then I just go back home and move on. It would be sad… but… it’s better than dying.”

The fight had left Ljilja before it had even begun. Scout’s shoulders sagged in disappointment. What sort of manager was this? “You don’t know that, anyone can win.” She grumbled, “everyone’s always going on about how dying is some terrible thing. Dying is the easiest thing in the world, it’s living that’s hard.”

Ljilja’s small hands balled into fists, the cloth of her dress wrinkling in her grasp. “Nothing worth doing is easy!” More words that did not seem to belong to her. Ljilja’s smile was tinged with guilt. “I don’t want to win… I just want to be with my family. Not win… just… survive. Is that really so terrible?”

“Sure, if surviving is all you want to do.” Her anger dulled to exasperation. Scout yawned, her ears returning to their normal position: guarded but unperturbed. “There’s so much living to do, so why just survive?” Scout’s gaze turned to the floor. “Truth be told, Ljilja, I’m not a good person. I left just surviving behind a long time ago, I’ve been fighting like hell to live the life I want.” Now, Scout would bloody her hands again to claw her way to the top.

“I won’t get in your way,” Ljilja assured her, “but… I think you have good in you… at least a little.” A warm smile returned to her face.

Scout opened her mouth to retort, but the doors suddenly slid open. “Scout!” Aries snapped, looking out of breath, his cheeks red, his expression pinched in anger. “You can’t just run away-” he paused in his beration, glancing between the unlikely pair of wolf and fish. “Tch.” Scout’s tail swished, and she rose slowly, dusting her dress off. “Gotta bounce, see you around fishy.

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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #919191 | Thought: #D8BFD8



"You have a pretty face," A mutant remarked, standing beside him. Jax's manager had run off somewhere with another, no doubt to conspire behind his back. "It's too bad I'll have to mark it up on the battlefield," He had white hair and striking blue eyes, white wings sprouting from his back that made his comment seem anything but angelic. Jax grinned behind his cup, his tail flickering with curiosity. "Those are strong words coming from a man who looks as though he's never worked a day in his life." The mutant blanched, grinding his teeth, his grasp on his drink no longer steady. "What did you say to me mutant?"

"Watch your tongue, or I might have to cut it out," Jax sipped his drink. He did not take threats lightly, not when he was determined to achieve his goal. Jax was normally mild mannered, but he did not enjoy being threatened with death or mutilation. "And for the record, you are a mutant too." The snow leopard placed his glass down, feeling slightly dizzy. Was Jax drunk? Perhaps that was why his tongue had become a bit looser. What was in that cup? He had absently picked one, finding the flavor to be mild and pleasant and then had had three more. He should have been more careful with his choices.

"Excuse me sir, would you like to try a pig in a blanket?" A mutant dressed in a sparkling two piece, holding a silver tray full of bite-sized delicacies waved it just beneath his nose. "Sure," perhaps food would clear up this odd feeling inside of him. Was this meat? The smell of it made his mouth water slightly. "I'll take five," Each one was thin and small, meat wrapped in flaky dough that crumbled in his hands. He was careful, not wishing to get his suit dirty. Where was Axel? Jax whirled around, popping another pig in a blanket in his mouth.

Perhaps he should just forget the social hour and go to bed, the beginnings of a headache were coming on. How many of those cups had he drank? Jax could hardly remember. He should have been wary, he should've been on guard, but instead, he was standing in the corner eating finger foods off of a tiny glass plate. How pitiful the doctor's life had become in a matter of hours. "Oh, there you are." Axel had appeared out of nowhere by his elbow, "Enjoying yourself?" He had a smile on his face, Jax had the feeling he had secured something of value.

"I am enjoying these," he raised his plate. Somehow, he had procured more tiny foods. "How many glasses of Jungle Punch did you drink?" Axel asked, slightly amused. "I lost count," Jax grumbled. Axel laughed, "Well, I guess I found your catnip." Jax let out a low growl. Axel laughed, looking down at his holo tab for a moment. "I hope you don't mind, I've taken the liberty of ordering you a special training outfit for your debut tomorrow." He winked, "I'm sure all of our female sponsors are going to love it."

"No," Jax replied simply, wiping his mouth with a napkin. He had finished eating, his head feeling a little bit clearer. "Oh, don't be like that. You're gonna love it." Jax had the sense that he would not love it. "I'm leaving," Jax placed his plate down, walking away. "Where are you going!" Axel called, running after him. "To bed," In the Tundra, he could have gone outside into the cold air to help clear his head, here, he would have to settle for the bedroom. "Fine, but you better show up to the gym tomorrow!" Axel called after him, Jax's ears twitching to pick out his voice.

His room was far too warm. Jax loosened the bowtie around his neck and turned towards the thermostat, he needed to make it colder in here. He slung his jacket and pants over the back of a chair and stumbled into the bathroom. "Da**it," his head was much too foggy. No, he would just skip brushing his teeth tonight. Was there mouthwash? There, that would do it. Jax stumbled into bed, pulling the covers over his body as the room cooled. Much better.

With a bearable room temperature and a bed like a cloud, Jax drifted off easily.

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Character Portrait: Leo Behrends
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Location: Father









As Leo stared out the windows of the ship, his mind began to wander as he did not find himself occupied with anything at the moment...Memories of his childhood...Now those were some sweet memories...He gave a soft sigh as he gazed into the clouds. "Man...I still remember the time I got interested in cooking because of my mother...Now that was an interesting experience." He laughed to himself as his head wandered back to when he was but a child...And when parts of his body was not mechanical...




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Location: Leo's home, 38 years ago


It was a warm summer day, he could remember it like yesterday. Although his love for engineering was already strong at this time his passion for cooking was ignited at that time. He was sitting around the table, and his mother was making some toast they had finally obtained after waiting patiently for the moment to harvest crops and turn the...'wheat' into bread and finally it was being cooked into toast on a pan.

The smell of butter filled the air as Leo waited with bated breath at the table while his father was watching the Holo-vision set and watching the news. Soon enough three sets of plates arrived from his smiling mother. "Everyone's favorite toast! Enjoy!" She exclaimed happily as Leo's eyes sparkled, marveling the toast. Buttery looking, nice and toasted no doubt capable of producing an audible crunch once one bit into it...The food of the breakfast gods...And he was finally going to eat this legendary food!

The little Leo picked up his toast with his hands, the smell of the toast getting stronger...Nirvana was within his grasp and he bit into it...However the mood entirely changed as the sparkling eyed boy looked disappointed. "Its burned...You have failed the breakfast gods mom..." Little Leo stated as his mothers rosy attitude immediately changed as she gritted her teeth and suddenly stood up and grabbed Leo's toast and shoved it in his mouth. "It's been 5 years since I last cooked toast! We don't waste in this house anyways! If you don't like my cooking then cook yourself and lets see if you have it easier Leo!" She stated as Leo was struggling with burnt toast in his mouth...

And it was from that day Leo vowed to never upset his mother, and to become a better cook than her...





Location: Father


"Ship command to Leo...You awake in that head of yours?" The sound of Qiqi caught his attention as he was pulled from his thoughts. "Sorry about that Miss Qiqi...I was absorbed in my thoughts about the past. Do you need me to meet with more people?" He nervously scratched the back of his head as he had just ignored his manager absorbed in his thoughts. "Well at least you apologized. No, if you're absorbed in your thoughts to the point that me calling out to you did not register what I said, you should retire for the day. We have a day of training and appointments tomorrow so I need you at your best for the week to come. Come on." She dragged him onto his feet as he nodded.

"Thanks Qiqi...I should sleep indeed. Long day tomorrow so I'm going to put my 110% into it. I'll see you in the morning at your office or...When you fetch me..." Leo pondered as Qiqi spoke up. "Meet me in my office tomorrow. You know the way by now." She replied as she walked off.

Yeah...A good night's rest seemed like a good idea. He would soon leave the bustle of the party and head to his room. There he undressed from the fancy clothing he wore and folded them before flopping on his new soft bed...Sleep came quickly due to this.

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On the Mats

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Waving to the wolfish girl, Ljilja watched her new friend leave. At least, she hoped Scout was a new friend - it was difficult to tell, for while their conversation seemed to have begun well, it had soured rapidly. Ljilja fidgeted with her fingers until both Scout and Aries were fully gone. For some time after, she sat in silence, eyes glued to the mat, wondering where she had gone wrong, what she might have said otherwise, what she could do to make things go better next time. Clear answers were not forthcoming.

She pushed off from the mat. Her eyes scanned the room and settled longingly upon the pool. "I can't," she told herself, "I need to train." So, instead, she tore her gaze from it and marched forward with discipline, venturing forth from the gym to the halls. If she was going to train, she would need proper attire. But where would she find it?

She passed various competitors in the halls, some calling it an early day, others finding their rooms to relax from the onslaught of interviews, many of which were still proceeding. Ljilja had yet to participate in one, but she hoped that would come soon. She could not know how busy her manager was, but she got the distinct impression that sponsors would be the key to her continued survival - the other competitors could not be relied upon to protect her, despite what Scout had implied. And yet, Jaden was nowhere to be found.

Left to her own devices, she wandered the premises, going largely unnoticed by staff and competitors alike. Maybe...maybe the stylist, Anya, was right - maybe she should have tried to be more ostentatious. Maybe then she would have drawn the attention of sponsors. Was Jaden trying to sabotage her? Was he lying to her? Did he even mean to honor his offer?

Ljilja bit her lip and kept walking. Where was she going? She had hoped to find her room, but the facilities had dozens of such quarters, one for each competitor, and with the passing of minutes and hours, she could not locate hers. She was certain she had walked by it a number of times, but the fog of worry clouding her mind kept her from noticing it. That, and...

She paused in her steps as her stomach loudly grumbled. It had been some time since she last ate. "Maybe...just a snack," she mentally concluded. At the very least, she had managed to stumble across the food hall once or twice in her meandering, and could locate it again easily.



The Mess

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Focused on her training, Ljilja determined to eat light. A tall, horned, purple-skinned woman stood before Ljilja on the other side of a long counter, patiently waiting to receive an order.

"I just, um..." Ljilja piped up, scrolling through a listing of foods on a holographic display, "just want something small."

"You're going to have to be more specific than that," the towering mutant answered. She dwarfed Ljilja, but that was not a difficult feat.

"Something I can eat really quickly?" Ljilja clarified, a nervous upswing taking over her voice. She shuffled her little black flats on the ground - she still hadn't changed out of her party attire.

The woman sighed. "Wait here," she announced before disappearing into a back room. She returned moments later with a bar on a plate, placing it atop the counter, where it sat about head-height with Ljilja.

Fearing repercussions should she protest, Ljilja took it with a grateful bow of her head and a little "Thank you, miss," before fleeing to one of the tables with the plate in hand. She took a seat at the far end of the room, trying her best to avoid eye contact with the mutant in charge of food distribution.

She peered around. Her table was much too large for her, designed to accommodate a large group of people. Ljilja found herself unconsciously gravitating towards it, perhaps because it reminded her of the commons back at Fort Kate. Still, it drew attention to her small size, and the fact that she was alone. A burly, muscular man with long hair and strange fluffy ears was seated at the other end of the room; he seemed to be aware of how intimidating he was, and kept to himself. Ljilja wondered about the fairness of someone like her being pitted against someone like that in open combat, but supposed that fairness wasn't the first thing on the minds of those running the Games.

Ljilja turned her gaze to the food on her plate. A small, compressed, nutty nutrient bar awaited her - no sweetness, just protein. She took nibbles at the bland, crunchy creation, scrunching her nose up at its offensively dull flavor. She supposed it contained essential vitamins, if only she could stomach it. She managed a few more bites before leaving it on the plate, her appetite chased away.

She stood with her half-eaten food block, shuddering with distaste. Her eyes scanned for a trash bin, but could not find one.

Noticing Ljilja's confusion, the woman behind the counter spoke up. "Just leave it, we'll take care of it."

It seemed a bit rude, but Ljilja complied, placing the plate back down and stepping away from the table. She looked about with uncertainty, then started to patter out of the room. "Uh...thank you," she called out, before proceeding into the hallways with hunched shoulders.



Running in Circles

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Hunger abated, Ljilja returned to the gym. Scout's words echoed in her mind - "If you're worried about a fight, it's your stamina you should work on." She took those words to heart.

Her soles clacked against the floor as she moved from the main gymnasium area to the hard-floored marathon track. She looked to and fro. She was alone.

She looked down at herself. It had been hours since the party ended, and though the clock was reaching deep into the night, she was still wearing her dress and bow. No matter. Ljilja took a position at the starting line and drew a deep breath.

At the sign of a shot that rang only in her head, she burst forward in a sprint. For someone so small, she was quick. As she rounded the first corner, panting like a dog, she grinned widely. "I can do this. I can do this! I just...can't...stop!"

Onward she bounded, pillars hurdling on her sides. At the end of the straightaway, she neared the next turn, but the edges of her vision grew darker and dimmer. Still she pushed on, grunting through the exhaustion, keeping up the pace. "Come on...come on!"

Her little chest heaved for air, growing tight as it strained to supply her body. Ljilja wrung every last bit of energy out of her small frame, but was fighting a losing battle. A meager meal and maladjusted lungs took an increasing toll with each step. She spied a water fountain up ahead and gazed needily at it. Then she wrested her eyes free to focus on the track. "No...I need to get stronger!

But willpower alone could not sustain her. As the finish line drew nearer, Ljilja's vision drained completely. She gasped deeply, but it was not air she needed. Her sprint fell to a stumble, her stumble to collapse. She came to the ground with a disturbingly hard thud, body crumpling upon the floor, where she lay motionless.

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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Location: Father

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Speech Color: #456d57 | Thought Color: #09444c




Yeqon ignored Kore's dramatic flare as he placed himself beside her. Blindly gazing into the crowd, he reminisced the lost moments he spent in peace while eating strawberries in the monitoring room.

Kore's shining eyes glued onto Yeqon, cueing him, "...Yeqon." He glanced at Kore to see a satisfied smile. He closed his eyes and returned his gaze toward the crowd of fifty mutants, memorizing their faces as Kore chattered away.

"What do you think, Yeqon? See any potential winners?" Refocusing his attention, Yeqon glanced down at Kore. He sighed, seeing how Kore wasn't even hiding her disappointment in Yeqon for not paying attention to her speech.

"...Apologizes." He scanned the crowd of mutants, going through the list of information he read about each contestant. He took his time, trying his best to find an appropriate answer for Kore.

"...I see around..." He listed the names in his head, "...20 potentials...19." He watched as a mutant he tagged as a potential winner stared dreamily at another female mutant. Emotions produce wavering judgment and can get you killed.

Blinking a few times, he stared into Kore's golden eyes. He didn't make any outward mistakes, but he felt Kore's slight disappointment. After stepping onto center stage and the lights illuminated on him, Yeqon blanked. He still had enough attention that if a situation broke out, he could respond appropriately, but what Kore wanted was for Yeqon to share his thoughts on her performance. A performance he paid zero attention to after saying his name.

His eyes narrowed; some would think he was glaring at Kore, "...Would a drink...make up for my mistake?" Yeqon's tone didn't change from its usual lifelessness. However, his words were sincere.

He didn't know how to fix the situation as the moment already passed. Therefore, the next step is to appease Kore by offering her some of his time. Eon always mentioned to him that ladies like attention, so maybe Kore would feel better if Yeqon gave her some of his attention. Hopefully.



Short screams echoed the steel halls of the mutant quarters. Two mutants were petrifying underneath the gaze of a tall, dark-skinned man.

"...Place them in their quarters." The two trembled a few feet away from Yeqon. Their bodies were decorated in whip marks, and small streams of blood flowed from each wound.

This whole situation started because of a petty fight. While focused on fighting, the mutants were interrupted by a weak-looking human. All they wanted to do was intimidate him. However, the ending result was horrifying. Their entire bodies stung with wounds. The guards grabbed the mutants by their necks and dragged them away.

Examining his body, Yeqon located blood splatter decorating his sleeve and shirt. If the two guards on duty with Yeqon hadn't watched the fight, they wouldn't have believed someone as weak-looking as Yeqon could subdue such beasts.

"...Y...Yes?" His throat was dry. Yeqon glanced at the two gawking guards, hoping neither realized the crack in his voice.

"N-No, Sir!" The two spoke in unison. They had witnessed a display of cruelty from Yeqon. There have been rumors about how merciless Yeqon was, but they have never confirmed them. Until now.

Yeqon sighed. He exited the room and journeyed down the hall. The guards rushed to keep up with him. Initially, Yeqon made the trip to the mutants' quarters because of a fight alert. Usually, things like this would be ignored. However, the mutants were causing too much of a disturbance.

While walking toward the Mutant gym, Yeqon listened to the whispers of the guards behind him.

"...He's so meticulous. Why must we monitor these lowly animals? Getting into a fight or two should be fine?"

"Yeah, but now we're stuck wandering around the freaks."

"This sucks. When will we be done?"


"Go home."

The two guards froze in horror, their eyes glued on Yeqon's face. His voice made them shiver, "Go home..."

The guards hesitated for a moment before jumping at Yeqon's voice, growing colder, "Now."

They scurried away. Yeqon gazed at their figures until they disappeared from his sight.

He needed to go home too, he thought of Eon asking about his day, and a small smile danced onto his lips.

Solidifying his goal, Yeqon went to check the gym before retiring for the night.

Entering the gymnasium, Yeqon heard some loud pants. He raised an eyebrow spying a blue-skinned girl. Looking more closely at her appearance, he noticed she was an aquatic-type mutant.

Deciding nothing needed to be done here, Yeqon turned around. Ready to go home, he suddenly heard a thud. Freezing, Yeqon glanced behind him to see a scene that made him curse internally. Today really wasn't his day.

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xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx #0EBFE9 | FC: #CD3333



Kore sighed, it wasn't that she was disappointed per say, as she already knew not to expect much of a performance from Yeqon. He was easy on the eyes, yes, but Kore found that his personality fell flat beyond that. She thought that perhaps with some rousing conversation, he may soon open up to her, like most did, but even Kore's amicable personality was frozen in Yeqon's stone-cold presence. So, Kore had taken a different approach. He didn't trust her, Kore knew that. She also knew that his father was the one who had pushed him into the position, otherwise Yeqon would very likely be holed up at home right about now, but there were two things that Kore definitively knew about Yeqon.

He liked fruit and he enjoyed a good cup of anything with a burn.

So when Yeqon offered a drink in place of an apology for his mental absence, Kore could do nothing but sigh. She could not hold this against him, of course. Instead, she did what she did best. There was no need to get deflated, not when her sparkle had not been dulled. "Alright, I'll take you up on that." After all, Kore needed to keep up the performance. It was imperative to her character.

"Shall we?" Kore offered her elbow, the drink table wasn't far from their little stage. Yeqon had spotted 19 potential winners. How problematic. Still, Kore kept her pleasant smile pasted to her lips. She would be working late tonight, after all, she had a meeting with the managers once the party ended. Kore picked a drink at random, she could not afford to get drunk, so she merely swirled the drink around in her hand while remaining in Yeqon's presence, chatting politely with random humans that came to greet her.

Most of the mutants stayed away, which was not surprising. After all, Kore was the device of their doom and Yeqon, well... he was Yeqon.

Once the party began to lull, Kore clapped her hands together and handed her drink to an attendant. "Thank you to everyone tonight who made this party a large success, especially our stars of the show! This could not have been done without you! I will now ask all humans to please vacate the mutant housing, as our contestants need to be up bright and early tomorrow for training!" It was the fastest way to dismiss them.

Kore was the Puppetere here, her words should have been able to command the room. The humans should have been dancing to her strings and for the most part, they were.

Still, there were some who didn't respect her and some who were overstaying their welcome, mingling by the drink table as the mutant staff attempted to clean up. "Excuse me," Kore's smile remained polite, however it did not quite reach her eyes "I did announce that the party was over. So leave," her words were biting, her message clear. They scurried out, the last of them and with them, Kore sighed.

She could not deflate, not yet. "Yeqon, I'm going to head to the meeting now. You can feel free to retire early," since he wasn't much of a help in conversational situations anyhow.

When Kore entered the hallway before the meeting room, her assistant was waiting for her with a lemon spritz and a stern expression. "What is it?" Kore asked, her voice low. "There's been a... situation." Mimi fixed her glasses, looking away. "What kind of situation?" Mimi showed Kore the feed on her personal pod. It was the NET, there were already wild speculations going on about Kore and Yeqon's relationship.

Images played over and over before her eyes. Kore picking imaginary dust off of Yeqon's coat, offering her hand, the two of them drinking beside one another, Yeqon moving to protect Kore from Fotors. Her smile was crafty. "This isn't a situation Mimi," Kore grinned, shaking her head. "This is the side story in the main performance."

Kore entered her arena, the overseeing room, where the managers were waiting for her. They rose when they saw her, the chair at the head of the table empty. Kore sat, her posture rigid, her hands clasping together as they all sat. "Updates," all at once they began to spill, every meticulous, juicy detail.

Tragic backstory, blood thirsty tyrant, a nobody who wanted to rise to glory.

Kore was listening, Mimi was recording everything. It was like a waterfall of information that Kore needed to direct the flow of. "Alright, I'll begin strategy angles for how we're going to sell them." Kore leaned forward, the table reacting to her gesture, bringing up profiles. Kore jotted down notes for each one.

It was well over 1 AM by the time the meeting was adjourned. At last, Kore deflated. She removed her heels and rubbed her temples. "Would you like a soother?" Mimi offered a bottle of pills, Kore waved it away. "No, no, those things are hideous. I just need a moment alone," Mimi nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow then?" She asked, hovering beside Kore. "Yes, tomorrow." Kore rose, there was blood in her heels, the soles of her feet raw from the stiletto point.

The celebrity rose slowly from her seat, circling the security feeds. Most of the mutants were in their beds. However, an unexpected sight made her take a step back; her elbow bumping into a chair. What was Yeqon doing there? Kore stepped closer to the camera, watching with wide eyes, slightly taken by the images before her. The whip in his hand dripped with blood, his gaze remained steady.

"What is this?" Kore's smile grew wider. "A private show, just for me?"

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xxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #CD5C5C | Thought: #2F4F4F




"Where are you going?" Aries asked, frustrated by her lack of patience for him. "To bed, I'm exhausted." Aries teeth ground together, Scout could hear it. Still, she paid him no mind. Her room, her room, which one was it? The name plates on the doors... Scout couldn't read them. "You look lost," a boy with black hair and white horns stood had somehow materialized by her elbow. He was taller than her and wore bandages on his face. "I'm fine," Scout replied, turning away. "Need some help finding your room?" He offered.

Scout stiffened. She was, indeed, a bit lost. "Can you read?" He seemed a bit bewildered by her question. "Yes," he replied, as though the answer were obvious. "What's your name?" He reached a hand forward. A name was harmless, Scout could give him that much. "Scout," she shook his hand, his grip firm, skin calloused. This was someone Scout needed to be wary of. "Boqin," he grinned, his teeth oddly smooth. Scout subconsciously ran her tongue across her own, sharp teeth. "Well Scout, now that I know your name, let's look for your room."

They went the other way, Boqin reading the names quickly. "So Scout, where do you hail from?" What a strange way of asking that, Scout realized. "The Wastes," her answers were curt, just like with everyone else. Scout was a closed book. "Oh? That's cool, I'm from the Jungles myself." Why was he so chatty? Scout's tail flickered in annoyance. "Oh, this is it. Here," Scout scanned her bracelet. "I guess we're neighbors." Her door popped open.

"Hey," he stepped forward before she could enter her room. "I'll see you tomorrow," Scout, flustered, wasn't sure how to respond. "Thanks?" He smiled before walking away, Scout standing in the doorway, wondering what that was supposed to mean. See you tomorrow? Did he intend to seek her out tomorrow? Was Scout over thinking it? Was he... flirting? No, Scout shook her head.

Her entire life she had been told she was ugly, what sort of mutant would flirt with a creature like her? She closed her door, locking it, just in case. Maybe Scout was being a bit paranoid, but she took off the ring she had been given by Selena and placed it just behind the entrance, in case anyone tried to open the door while she slept.

Flinging off her clothing was perhaps the best feeling in the world. The boots clung far too tightly to her ori and the dress made her feel self-conscious. Rummaging through her closet, Scout located a plain tee shirt to sleep in. "Goodnight," Scout whispered to her empty room, crawling into what felt like a cloud. She wrapped herself up in the blanket, the weight of it a comfort, but not even that could fend off the nightmares.

"You dumb b*tch!" Scout covered her ears, the sound of a plate hitting the wall reverberating through the room. The chain around her neck was heavy, her dress tattered at the bottom. "Do you think this is food! Get your f*ckin' eyes checked!" Scout shivered. A cloud of dread hung over her, her body frozen in fear. "Where's the kid?"

"Please Master, I'll do better. Please, spare her." Her Mother's pleas were weak.

"Bring the kid."

The door to closet opened, letting in a small amount of light, it was the only time that Scout was ever let out. "The Master wants to see you."

"Please, no." Scout whispered. "I'm sorry," her Father was a pathetic excuse for a man. He grabbed her by the wrist, the bruises there from earlier today still fresh. Whenever they made a mistake, it was her fault. When would their Master learn that her parents didn't care? When would he notice the relief in their eyes that he was taking his frustration and anger out on her and not them?

"What a useless bunch your parents are," he rose, his shadow looming over her. Scout stood, rooted to the spot, like a tree in a field. "These lessons are good for you, you know. Maybe you won't grow up to be like them."

Scout flinched when his hand came close, he laughed, the sound grating in her eyes. Her misery was his happiness. Her tears were his beverage of choice. He grabbed her by the hair, his expression hungry. Scout was still small then, she was easy to pick up. He slammed her head against the table, over and over, until there was a terrible
thwack! and her forehead began to bleed.

At last, her Master's thirst for blood had been fulfilled. Her parents stood in the corner, relieved that it was her and not them.

Their eyes had glazed over, numb to her pain.

"Don't be like those two kid." Their Master spat as Scout sank to the floor, blood obscuring her vision.


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cayde "quickshot" mori // father ship // #990012 // img credit: alex flores

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By the time that the finned child ran off, the room had been flooded with managers and potential sponsors, some speaking with managers and others content on having competitors fight over their patronage. Cayde was all too eager to observe the spectacle, but Halo would not give him such a luxury.

Their glance pierced through the room, striking the cyborg with unparalleled "concern" (though that word didn't quite encapsulate their feelings). All the years of modeling taught them how to sell a feeling with a single look and in this case, the sentiment seemed to be “don’t shoot yourself in the foot before you even start”. The tilt of Cayde’s helmet, in his mind, said something akin to ”I know what I’m doing”, but there was a chance that his movements would get lost in translation.

Begrudgingly marching towards the bar, he found himself stopped by a blue-haired woman.

”Well, well. I don’t think I’ve seen you around.” Manicured nails trailed up his arm, stopping short of his chest. ”You must be Halo’s little project. I didn’t expect you to be so…grizzled.

”You can say old,” he replied flatly.

”Oh don’t be silly. It’s refreshing to see an actual adult in the competition,” she chuckled. "You’re usually all so young.“

In another life he might have enjoyed the attention but she made it obvious that her gaze wasn’t well-intentioned. Though everyone dressed formally, she carried herself far too gracefully to be another contestant. With a slit up to her waist, detached taffeta sleeves, and an all but open chest, she wouldn’t be caught dead near manual labor much less a battlefield.

”My name is Catherine Rose, of Black Rose Electronics.” Extending her free hand, she shot him a smirk.

Was she expecting him to kiss it through his mask? Or was she expecting him to grace her with the pleasure of seeing his face? She didn’t appear to be the type who would enjoy seeing mutants that didn’t adhere to human standards.

”Quickshot, nice to meet you.” Much to her dismay, the cyborg gave her an awkward shake before letting go.

Holding back a frown, she curled her fingers around his bicep.

”Right well, you must meet my friends.” Catherine gestured towards a standing table surrounded by other, equally opulent humans.

Not so much leading as dragging the mutant along, the woman pointed out every noble family that they passed by, making sure to explain her own connection to each person. As CEO of Black Rose Electronics she had her finger in many pies, naturally.

"Everyone! this is Quickshot," she announced, "he's a competitor in this year's Game of Pursuit."

"Oh? Catherine, I never knew you were into the grungy type," a pot-bellied man said, "I always thought you enjoyed men who were more refined."

"There are very few men here Sid, though you always did prefer them young,” she shrugged, eying the multi-winged mutant that he had his arm around.

”Oh my gosh, you can’t just say that!” a second woman exclaimed, playfully swatting Catherine.

”We’re all adults here Aria,” the blue-haired woman shrugged before glancing at Quickshot.

”Of course,” he replied with gritted teeth.

”So...how did you two meet?”

”I was looking for a girl this year. Something monstrous with a cute face.” Swirling the wine glass between his fingers, Sid took a long sip before stroking the young mutant’s feathers, ”and that’s when I found Ten over here.”

Stiffening at her sponsor's touch, Ten managed a weak "hi" before reaching over for her sparkling water.

”Aww we should celebrate!” Aria raised her glass, "to finding our perfect match!"

”Actually, I think I should be going to bed.”

”But the festivities have only started!” Catherine protested, ”surely you can stay a bit longer."

Quickening his pace, managed to lose Catherine in the crowd before finally emerging in the living quarters. He'd had enough for the night and if Halo and Renee wanted to scold him for potentially losing a sponsor then so be it. Right now, he just needed some rest.

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The Fall

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Rapid footsteps clattered on the hard track surface, the gait of a tall and lanky man very much in a hurry. A stinging metallic smell began to taint the air around Ljilja's body. Crouching beside her on one knee, Yeqon furrowed his brows and ran his icy blue eyes over her to try to identify the source. His focus was drawn to a growing crimson stain on the side of her bright blue hair.

Should he move her? Should he call for help? Had there been a death so soon? Would this weigh against him and Kore? He frowned. Choosing to act decisively, he braced his arms and scooped the young girl up, discovering...she weighed hardly anything. Even limp, she was scarcely more difficult to carry than a small pack or a well-stuffed pillow. That, he suspected, was not a good sign. That and the blood beginning to stain his clothes.

Unmoving and unresponsive, Ljilja drew labored breaths. Yeqon would have to diagnose her injuries on his own. Drawing a sigh, he carefully cradled her in his arms and searched for wounds. Abrasions across her side, arm, and ear showed mottled patches of torn fabric and broken skin, freshly dripping. His eyes briefly glanced to the track, where a bloody smear trailed its way to where her body had lain. So there was the scent of the blood - but why was she unconscious?

His ears were drawn to the hoarseness of her breathing, his eyes to her chapped lips and distinct lack of sweat - it was as though she were trying to hang on to every last drop of water she could. Moreover, her skin was a pale blue, like someone who had held their breath for too long. Observing that her mutations were aquatic in nature, he surmised that it would take water to revive her.

Rising to his feet, Yeqon clutched Ljilja to himself, her legs dangling over the support of his arm, and began carrying her to a nearby fountain. His steps carried a certain urgency - there were cameras rolling, and if the Editors had half a mind, they would plaster this scene all over the feeds.

But, just then, a new presence greeted him from around the corner, causing him to stop in his tracks: a familiar snowy-haired manager flanked by a small, froglike mutant in a maid uniform.

"Oh, sorry," he quipped, remarking on Yeqon carrying his charge over the threshold, "I won't disturb you two." His arms folded and a smirk crept onto his face.

Yeqon froze in his tracks. He and Jaden were verbal sparring partners at the best of times - and this was one of the worst times. "Mister Kumar," he ordered, invoking authority by using his surname, "come here."

Jaden stood resolute. Each of their encounters was like playing chess, and this latest meeting was the beginning of yet another game.

It took the panicked warbling of Jaden's servant, Zorana, to bring both of them to their senses. With an urgency that neither seemed to possess, she tearfully rushed up to Ljilja, her little webbed hands roaming over her to try and see what was wrong. Yeqon held Ljilja still for the maidservant to examine her. She signed desperately towards him, repeatedly dipping her hand with crossed fingers. Realizing that Yeqon could not understand her, she repeated the motion to Jaden.

"She needs..."

Next, a broad, sweeping motion.

"...the pool? She says to put Ljilja in the pool," Jaden explained.

Yeqon ever so faintly raised his brows. Part of him wanted to praise the young maiden for her sense and the boldness to act independently. Even if it was frowned upon for mutant slaves to show such autonomy, Yeqon did not share such an attitude. Maybe he and Jaden had more in common than they thought. Still, a game was afoot. After the three walked together towards the pool, Yeqon turned to Jaden, attempting to press the body of his competitor into his arms.

Jaden kept his arms folded.

"Take her, Mister Kumar." Answering the advance of Jaden's pawn, Yeqon played knight to king. Check.

Zorana was done indulging them. "Hrrrp hrrrr!" she yelled, stamping her feet all the way over to Yeqon, whose tie she insistently tugged.

This might have been a death sentence for most mutants. Fortunately, Yeqon had a soft spot for courageous slaves - she reminded him of his own Eon. A chuckle left his lips, and he waded into the pool with Ljilja, slowly immersing her into the water.

Zorana breathed a sigh of relief, and Jaden unfolded his arms.

Within moments, Ljilja expelled the air from her lungs, taking in the water instead. She sank further beneath the surface, drifting out of Yeqon's arms, as she gradually awakened.

"Well done, Zorana," Jaden praised. Zorana immediately reported to his side, where he affectionately rubbed her head. It seemed Yeqon was not the only one with a soft spot for mutants.

Ljilja spat out the water and surfaced. She rubbed at her head, looking at the three in confusion. Zorana began to rapidly sign to her, to which she answered, and the two conversed rapidly, their hands an traceless blur to untrained eyes.

"A suggestion, Mister Kumar," Yeqon called, drawing Jaden's attention, "we ought to do something about the cameras. It will not...appeal to the public...that your maid showed such spirit."

Zorana paused in her signing to bashfully sway in place, then returned to her conversation with Ljilja.

"Well, the Editors are watching and listening. Just say 'Yeqon will come after you' loud enough and they'll get the message," Jaden suggested.

Perhaps it was exhaustion from the late and sleepless hour, but Yeqon could not help but laugh at the mental picture of the look on the face of the recipients of such a threat. "Sure," he answered, "I hope they're listening." He turned to one of the nearby cameras, his laughter vanishing, replaced with a cold and murderous gaze. "Tread very carefully," he warned to any observers, "I am a Cryo; we do not take kindly to trouble."

After delivering his message, he turned to Jaden, his voice noticeably softer. His eyes held a playful spark. This was rather fun. "Mister Kumar...do you believe my message was appropriately delivered?"

"Couldn't've said it better myself," Jaden answered. He noticed that Zorana and Ljilja had stopped signing to one another; he turned to his competitor.

Ljilja stood sullen in the water, bearing a remorseful frown. "I'm sor—" she began to say, just in time for Jaden to interject, "Are you okay?"

She shook her arm and rubbed at her head. "I'm...fine, I think. Just my head hurts."

"Zora, take her to the infirmary," Jaden ordered. Without hesitation, she waded into the pool in uniform, retrieving Ljilja by the hand. "Have her checked for a concussion."

Zorana guided Ljilja from the pool and began to lead her out of the room. As she passed Jaden, he frowned with disapproval. "Take it easy, little fish. We'll talk after."

She was not looking forward to that conversation.



On the Mend

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Tap. Tap-tap. Tap. Rubbing at the back of her head with one hand, Gertrude, one of the late shift physicians, sleepily punched Ljilja's information into a holopad after a brief interview and a quick body scan. Her retractable hot pink nails poked clean through the transparent surface with each keystroke.

"Your body's not meant for this sorta thing, hon'," Gertrude chided. Ljilja could only bashfully nod, bunching up her shoulders and staring furtively at the floor.

"I'm confinin' you ta medbay 'til you get a good night's sleep. Doc's orders." Ljilja opened her mouth to protest, but— "Ap-bap-bap! I could write you up to sendja home right now, you know that? An' I probably should, by the looks o' ya. Acute exsiccosis. Yer a water-breather, ain'tcha?"

Ljilja nodded again. She gripped at the sheets of the small foam mattress she was guided to rest upon.

"It's a miracle you still got the workin' parts to keep yer head above water. You push 'em too hard, they just might stop," Gertrude warned. With that, she stood from her swiveling chair, pad in hand, and stepped towards the door, her heels clacking against the hard gray flooring. She paused to glance back at Ljilja, letting out a sigh.

"I'm lettin' yer manager in now. I imagine he's got his spiel to give, too. If he tells ya to throw in the towel...maybe listen, huh?"

Raising her gaze from the ground, Ljilja cocked her head over to Gertrude, blue eyes widening.

"Just a thought."

With that, she passed through the doorway, which slid open with a pleasant chirp.

Jaden slipped through the door a few moments after. He held a mug of hot, steaming brown, which filled the room with its warm yet bitter scent. He rolled his shoulders, took a sip, then leant upon the wall. Even at a distance, his comparatively enormous height intimidated Ljilja. She curled up her knees upon the bed and hugged them to herself, a position he was getting accustomed to seeing her in. Jaden yawned, then swished around some of the liquid in his half-empty cup.

"She says you're an aquatic," he began.

Ljilja held silent as the tension grew thick in the air—Jaden was not the best at small talk, especially not in situations like this. He drew a breath, then continued.

"And that you're probably going to die in the first round if I don't pull you out or get you a steady stream of water."

Grumbling, Ljilja finally spoke up. "I was just fine at Fort Kate. I can breathe air."

"Of course you can," he said with a groan, rubbing at his temples. "Look, I told you to train, not run a marathon on the first day."

"I was doing my best...usually, I run with Longjacks instead. With them, I have no problems," Ljilja explained.

"And what happens when they go dry?"

Silence returned to the room, broken up only by the idle hum of medical machinery. Ljilja did not have a satisfying answer to give.

"You need friends, little fish. And sponsors. Bad. I didn't know it was this bad, though." He swished his coffee around, then took a bubbling sip from the still-hot mug.

He...didn't suggest that she quit.

"Training can wait. You sleep, I'll put together interviews. It's going to be a long night," he mused before abruptly downing the entire mug. Then, with one hand, he began Fin-signing.

Tap-tap, swim-swim. 'Be careful, little fish.'

He was...still supporting her. Did he still believe in her?

Jaden smirked and departed from the room. Ljilja watched after him as he left the doorway, staring long after he was gone and the lights were lowered to help her sleep.

She shuffled beneath the blankets and stared at the ceiling. Why was he learning her language? Why didn't he tell her to go home? Why didn't he lecture her nearly as badly as the doctor had? And who was the girl he had with her earlier?

She closed her eyes, purging her mind of thought. She sat straight on her back and, in time, fell unconscious once more.

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xxxxxxxxxxxLocation: Fatherxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  Speaking: #CD5C5C | Thought: #2F4F4F




The lights outside were still dimmed for evening by the time Scout awoke. She felt dizzy and slightly disoriented by the stars outside her window, stiffening for a moment until she recalled where she was.

That man was dead.

Scout brought her knees up to her chest for a temporary hug. No one would hurt her anymore. Scout looked down at her hand, balling it into a fist. She was strong, Mercy had made sure of that before his untimely death.

The wolfish girl stumbled out of bed, looking for the control panel to turn the lights on. With that, the stars didn't seem so bright anymore. She fumbled around in the bathroom, trying to figure out how to turn the shower on. "Why are there so many da*n buttons?" Scout hit them all, the shower turning on at last. It was cold, the water, but that didn't bug her. Hot water was rare in the Wastes, why would it be any different here?

Her leg was sore, the spot where the ori was jutting out from her skin throbbing.

It had never hurt up until now and for a moment, Scout froze beneath the stream of the shower, wondering if something had changed, if it was progressing. "Not yet," Scout slammed her fist against the wall. She just needed a bit more time, the first game hadn't even begun.

Her closet only had one outfit in it, a pair of skintight black pants and a black top with words on the back. "What does this say?" The letters were embosed in silver, could it be her name? No, Scout didn't think so (it was). She shrugged the coat on, zipping it up to her throat and shoved her feet into the sneakers that were sitting at the bottom. Had Aries prepared this? Or Selena?

The hallway was empty, the entire walk towards the center of the mutant housing quiet, save for her footsteps. Scout hid her hands in her coat pockets, her hair a bit of a mess from her fitful sleep. She had ignored the hairbrush that was sitting in the bathroom, knowing that it would only cause her unecessary pain, what with her tangle of floofy hair. At last, she reached the center, the doors to the dining hall were closed, was it not open yet? She recalled yesterday, when Ljilja had opened up the gym with her bracelet. Where was the reader? Scout spotted it on the wall beside the entrance. She tapped her bracelet against it, the doors sliding open soundlessly. The smells of breakfast wafted out, Scout's mouth practically watering.

Food was not abundant, it was not unusual for Scout to go a day or two without a meal. Here, however, she could eat as much as she wanted, whenever she wanted. There was a graphic on the wall that changed every few seconds. No doubt it talked about rules or interviews, but Scout couldn't read any of it. She placed her bracelet against a reader, a tray popping up from a shoot beneath. She slowly went down the line, taking a little bit of everything and sitting at a table besides the window. Was this what the life of a human was like? Scout wouldn't know.

It was quiet, which was odd. Despite the staff working in the kitchen and the mutants who were cleaning and performing maintenance, there was no one else around. Scout was used to a cacaphony of sounds. Crying babies, arguing couples, snoring from her neighbors. Her ears were still, the silence both pleasant and uncomfortable.

The gym too, was empty, save for a lone mutant who was sweeping the floor. Scout was headed straight for the wall of practice swords when the door opened up behind her. "Good morning!" Aries called, her tail sagging in disappointment. She was hoping to be alone for a few more hours. "Like the outfit? Selena and I stayed up late designing it. I'm not surprised you're an early riser," he stopped just behind her, checking out his holo pad for a moment. "Don't mind the crew, they'll just be filming the mutes doing things like exercise."

Scout turned to look at him, "Good morning," she grumbled. Aries seemed to brighten somehow, perhaps pleased that Scout was actually talking to him. "Anyhow, your support item is a sword, right?"

"...Yeah," Scout scratched at her arm. She turned away from him, perhaps talking to Aries was a mistake after all. She picked up a few swords, weighing them in her hands and swinging them around before finding a weight she was comfortable with. "What are you doing?" Aries wanted to know.

"I'm feeling them," Scout grunted in reply. "For a weight close to mine." Aries nodded, tapping something into his holo pad. Was he really writing that down? "You should use one of the sim rooms," Aries grabbed her wrist. Scout growled, tugging her arm away, but he was insistant. "In here," the room was dark until Aries inputted something into the pop up display, then, the small space illuminated. Holograms pinged out of the ground and walls, each with numbers on them.

"What is this?" Scout was wary of entering such a space. "You don't like the cameras right?" Aries's voice was low. He was perceptive, Scout would give him that. "They can't watch you practice in there," it was a lie, but how was Scout to know? She stepped hesitantly into the sim room, the door closing behind her. Scout's ears twitched, picking up the sound of the lock clicking into place automatically. She swung her sword at the hologram in front of her, a ding above letting her know she had hit her target. Was that all there was to it?

WARM UP MODE ACTIVATED. READY? START.

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Location: Old Housing Block: A few years ago









The smell of smoke filled the air as a white haired man was shifting some rubble inside a dilapidated house that had long since crumbled away. With a trusty smoke glued in his mouth, he enjoyed this rather relaxing part of his life. Shifting through rubble to look for old abandoned salvage that he could bring back with him, along with anything else that was of value. Of course so far he only found old rusted cans, lots of worn out stone and dust. So far everything was as expected, a slow day of exploration which was rather common for Leo these days.

After a few hours of backbreaking work, Leo soon moved a heavy stone slab using a piece of pipe and discovered a jackpot, wedged between two pieces of stone was the remains of some electronic scrap. Looked like it could still be salvaged and re-purposed into something new. For a engineer like Leo something like this was equal to gold for a prospector and as such a smile formed on his face as he grabbed the scrap and after a bit of careful force freed the scrap and puffed a cloud of smoke before he put his findings in his bag.

"Phew...Nothing beats a good days work like this. I should head back home, my pack is nearly full of scrap so I can make a bunch of new equipment and patch my old stuff. Maybe I can work on the town's generator...It's getting rather old, and I should do a favor for our leader. She could use a breath of fresh air once in a while and not worry." He nodded to himself as he heard something shuffling around.

Curious by the sound he turned his head and looked around until his head looked upwards and noticed a figure in patchy clothing on top of a pile of rubble with a pistol...And he saw it being aimed at him...A blast...His vision went half red as he moved...Ah...He was ambushed...





Location: Father


Leo woke up with a jolt as he looked around...A nightmare? Technically it was a moment in his past suddenly cut off at a moment like that...But in this case that was considered a nightmare. He gave a sigh to himself as he stretched a bit, no use in worrying about a scary dream he had because he had a new day ahead of him. He got up from his bed and entered the bathroom. So clean and pristine...Nothing like back home. This was luxury at its finest...Even the toilet looked more well kept than his whole whole house put together...Jeeze this was like a whole other world.

After washing his face with a sink and taking a while examining the fancy shower and its technical side of things before actually using it blasting himself with hot water after finding out what each button did he soon stepped outside with a towel draped around him. Although the sun was not quite visible it was indeed a good morning! A hot shower that was almost unheard of back home...A bed that was not made of old scrap and ragged cloth...Despite the threat of entering a death game, life was pretty nice so far.

After a bit of rummaging around in his wardrobe he got a nice fancy suit and dress pants from his wardrobe and took a moment to stand in front of a mirror and used his hands to make his hair look...As neat as it could. Qiqi was working on his looks yesterday so he wanted to help her out a bit by at least not look like a ragged mess...Even if he was not sure what 'good' looked like. But from what he seen during the party everyone seemed to like things straight and together...So he would just wing it...But he thought he looked good!

Once he was done he made sure his band was around his wrist which was pretty important not to lose and soon stepped outside his room. First things first...He was not sure what to do since he had no schedule but he might as well get some food, and maybe go for a run at the training area. Afterwards he should find Qiqi in her studio to see what was their plans for today. He nodded at his plan as he walked around and followed directions before he would arrive at the mess hall and after admiring all the simple technological marvels like a screen that continued to change images like a Holovision but not recorded...He would eventually order different types of food using the bracelet and got to eating and examining his food. All this food was brand new to him after all and he just needed to know it all...

Once his breakfast was both recorded and eaten he soon arrived at the next part of his plan, the gym. A good 30 minute run should get the blood flowing through his legs. It be bad to slack off after all...And as such he would soon look around and notice the many strange devices and machines. First he analyzed and examined them and tested them out to find out what each machine did until he finally settled on a machine that had something that allows you to run on it! Amazing...

And as such he began his workout...A start of a brand new day Leo...Things can only be good from here for the moment.