Description

"I'm not an angel anymore..."

General Knowledge
"I have sought out redemption..."

Things You Want To Know
"But I've merely come across damnation..."

|Hair Color|

Onyx

|Eye Color|

Azure with flecks of grey, hazel, and green

|Height|

Six Feet and Two Inches

|Weight|

One Hundred and Thirty Pounds

|Tattoos|

Jasper possesses sleeves on both his arms and a tattoo of a rose on his chest along with a sparrow on his neck

|Piercings|

He has plugs in his ears

|Scars|

There are various scars on his body from multiple fights he's been engaged in. He remembers how each and every one came about and he likes telling the stories behind them.

|Character Color|

#820c0c

|Description|

Jasper possesses a very edgy persona. He is a tall and lanky man that has the face of a young teenage boy, but the mindset and the drive of grown man. He is blessed with smooth porcelain skin that bares his body art with pride. His hair is pitch black and lush, soft to the touch whilst his eyes are a startling sapphire color that is flecked with grey, hazel, and green in the depths. He is described as hauntingly handsome, overall.

For Better Or For Worse
"I cannot be saved...I'm tainted."

|Personality|
{Cold, Distant, Passionate, Scarred, Demented, Hopeless}

Jasper is a cold, demented soul that has seen too much evil in such a small amount of time. His mentality has been tainted, no longer believing in a silver lining when there is so much gloom. He has detached himself from the world morally and emotionally; stealing, lying, and manipulating to survive in the fucked up world he lives in. He is a pessimist that has a rather narrow view of things, thinking that the earth is in black and white. He used to have morals, dreams, even aspirations, but those died when his innocence did. Now, his heart is like stone, hard and guarded from the pain of loving anyone.

Jasper has numbed himself as a defense mechanism, using caustic remarks and rude behavior to fend off anyone that dares to attempt to connect with him. This disconnection is caused by the subconscious fear of intimacy. He isn't sure if he could handle the burden of loss, betrayal, and death again, not without cracking. So ,he puts up a wall and a facade of faux emptiness. He still feels, however, he suppresses said emotions causing him to seem stand-offish and extremely serious. Jasper is resourceful, clever, and blunt. He said what he means and means what he say without preamble or hesitation. He isn't afraid to speak his mind and doesn't care if he hurts anyone's feelings. His voice is just as colorless as his personality; bland, monotonous, and dull. There is no longer any life within him. He is a shell of the man that he once was and has lost hope in redemption for all of his sins.

He seeks a majority of his refuge in the poisons of the flesh such as; sex, drugs, and alcohol. Though, when under the influence, Jasper is as free as a bird. He lives in the moment and gets himself into trouble. While intoxicated, Jasper finds beauty in the warped world and actually gains a personality that is reckless, bold, and just like he used to be.
|Hobbies|

~ Smoking
~ Sketching
~ Drinking
~ Stealing

|Habits|

~ Chain Smoking
~ He is an alcoholic
~ He taps his finger on his bottom lip when he is annoyed
~ He licks his lips when he is thinking
~ He smells his food before he eats it
~ He will play with his clothes when he's bored or tap on things

|Oddities|

~ Although, he isn't really religious, Jasper is intrigued by the idea of religion and will quote scripture when the time feels right.
~ He has ADD
~ Jasper likes when girls sing to him, he doesn't show it, but he thinks it's beautiful and it calms him.
~ He is a pyromaniac, preferring to set fire to objects when he is upset/hurt/sad

|Likes/Loves|

Fast Food
Horror Movies
Quoting Scripture
Fire
Alcohol

|Dislikes/Hates|

Emotions
Pop Culture
Love
Awkward Silences
Sitting Still

Stuff You Shouldn't know...
"Dirty..."

|Strengths and Weaknesses|

|Character Skills/Talents|

Manipulation
Singing (secretly)
Cooking
Sketching

|Character Flaws/Weaknesses|

Self-Expression
Trusting Others
Refusing Alcohol
Love

|Secrets|

~ Jasper is dangerously afraid of loving someone again because he isn't sure if he can heal from another dose of heartbreak.
~ He can sing rather well, but he doesn't like doing it in front of people
~ He was madly in love at one point in his life
~ He never pleaded his innocence after the murder because part of him still yearns to protect his ex-lover
~ There is still a small piece of him that is still wishes to be saved, despite his denial.

|Fears/Phobias|
~ Falling in love
~ Death
~ Heights

Remembering The Past
"I have sought out redemption...and I failed to achieve it."

|Biography|

|Place Of Origin|

Moscow, Russia

|Birth Date|

November 7th

|History|

Jasper was born and raised in the streets of Moscow, Russia with his mother and father. He lived a rather normal life, being the apple of his parent's eye and living up to their expectations. He was a sweet kid; obeying the rules, caring for others, and being a role model. He and his parents ventured to the states when he was sixteen and that was when he met her. He met her his first week in America, she was the most beautiful woman that he'd ever seen. Her name was Isabella and they instantly clicked. He didn't care that she was ten years older than him. He fell in love with her and was completely loyal to her. She showed him what actual living was like; taking him to concerts, paying for his first tattoo, and taking his virginity. She was light of his life, his soul mate, however, things took a turn for the worse.

When he was eighteen, Jasper began to notice that she was changing...she became stand-offish and wouldn't allow him to touch her. Concerned, he sat her down and talked to her. After much coaxing and whispering sweet nothings, she finally told him of her dilemma. Her boss was sexually harassing her at work and threatening to fire her if she didn't give him what he wanted. Crossed, Jasper took it upon himself to save Izzy from the manipulation. She was working late that night with just her boss, but Jasper wasn't comfortable with that at all. He visited her office just to convince her to quit and start anew, but when he entered the office he wasn't prepared for what he witnessed.

The man was a bloody heap on the floor, liquid essence dripping from his neck like a stream and coating the beige carpet. Isabella was frantically crying, body jerking as tears overflowed. Jasper was stunned and afraid. He pulled her into his arms as she clung to him with crimson fingers, begging for his help and the teen did just that. He told her to flee while he got rid of the body, unfortunately someone heard the commotion and the police caught him red handed as he was dragging the body through the lobby, leaving a trail of blood in his wake. He was incarcerated and tried for first degree murder.

He spent three years on trial, pleading his innocence, yet keeping the real culprit under wraps because of his love for her. After the jury determined that he was indeed innocent, he was released from custody and given a second chance...sadly, the jury may have thought he was innocent, but the citizens in his town were convince of his guilt. He attempted to find work, but no one would hire him due to his track record and his grungy appearance. He managed to snag a bar-tending job at an old pub. During this time, he survived caustic remarks and hateful glares, but he didn't care. He wanted to see Isabella. She never returned his phone calls or replied to his text messages. It was as if she was wiped off the face of the earth. A year passed and Jasper found himself indulging in the pleasures of the flesh and the comfort in a bottle. Money wasn't coming in as much as he wanted, so he stole and lied to get what he needed. He sold drugs, committed credit card fraud, and stole from the wealthy to make ends meet. He grew colder, meaner, and immoral. He valued nothing, loved no one, and hated everything. The sweet little Russian boy died and in his place was a ruthless man. On the night of his recruitment into The Gift of Innocence, Jasper saw Isabella for the first time in months, however she wasn't alone and was in the arms of another man. It was not only the day that he was recruited, but also the day his heart truly shattered and the old him really died.

|Family Tree|

Father|57|Clyde|Deceased
Mother|54|Olive|Bedridden

|Happiest Memory|

"Izzy and I got caught in the rain once...we were soaked to the bone, so I tried to keep her warm with my body heat. I held her in my arms, looking down into those unforgettable green eyes and I was hooked. It was the first time I ever told her that I loved her...it was the first time I've ever said anything so true."

|Saddest Memory|

"There was blood on her fingers. God, she was so frantic and hysterical. She wouldn't listen to a word I was saying as she stared at the body. Izzy looked up at me with a look I've never seen before and I knew that this was going to change everything."

Theme Song
"It's over. It's all over."

Sail | Awolnation

Sail!

This is how I show my love
I made it in my mind because
I blame it on my A.D.D. baby

This is how an angel dies
I blame it on my own sick pride
Blame it on my A.D.D. baby

Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!

Maybe I should cry for help
Maybe I should kill myself (myself)
Blame it on my A.D.D. baby

Maybe I'm a different breed
Maybe I'm not listening
So blame it on my A.D.D. baby

Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!

La la la la la
La la la la la oh!
La la la la la,
La la la la la oh!
La la la la la,
La la la la la,

Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!
Sail!

Sail with me into the dark
Sail!
Sail with me into the dark
Sail!
Sail with me into the dark
Sail!
Sail with me
Sail!
Sail with me
Breakeven | The Script

I'm still alive but I'm barely breathing
Just prayin' to a God that I don't believe in
'Cause I got time while she got freedom
'Cause when a heart breaks, no, it don't break even

Her best days will be some of my worst
She finally met a man that's gonna put her first
While I'm wide awake she's no trouble sleeping
'Cause when a heart breaks no it don't break even... even... no

What am I supposed to do when the best part of me was always you?
And what am I supposed to say when I'm all choked up and you're OK?
I'm falling to pieces, yeah,
I'm falling to pieces

They say bad things happen for a reason
But no wise words gonna stop the bleeding
'Cause she's moved on while I'm still grieving
And when a heart breaks no it don't break even, even... no

What am I gonna do when the best part of me was always you?
And what am I supposed to say when I'm all choked up and you're OK?
I'm falling to pieces, yeah,
I'm falling to pieces, yeah,
I'm falling to pieces
(One still in love while the other one's leaving)
I'm falling to pieces
('Cause when a heart breaks no it don't break even)

Oh, you got his heart and my heart and none of the pain
You took your suitcase, I took the blame.
Now I'm tryna make sense of what little remains, ooh
'Cause you left me with no love and honour to my name.

I'm still alive but I'm barely breathing
Just prayin' to a God that I don't believe in
'Cause I got time while she got freedom
'Cause when a heart breaks, no, it don't break...
No, it don't break
No, it don't break even, no

What am I gonna do when the best part of me was always you?
And what am I supposed to say when I'm all choked up and you're OK?
(Oh glad you're okay now)
I'm falling to pieces, yeah
I'm falling to pieces, yeah
(Oh I'm falling, falling)
I'm falling to pieces,
(One still in love while the other one's leaving)
I'm falling to pieces
('Cause when a heart breaks, no, it don't break even)

Oh, it don't break even no
Oh, it don't break even no
Oh, it don't break even no

Other

|Other/Misc|

|Wants to gain|

Salvation

|Anything else|

~ Jasper has a faint Russian accent
~ Jasper carries a bible on his person because he finds the stories interesting
~ He carries a switch blade, a lighter, and pack of cigarettes at all time
~ When using his gift, Jasper's sapphire eyes shift to a void-like black that clouds his whites in a blanket darkness
~ Jasper is blind and deaf to the present when he is under the influence of his gift. He can only see the past or future of the object, and still feel everything that is happening to his body in the present.

So begins...

Jasper Ryder's Story

Seen 27 Times • Page 2 of 2 • 1, 2

Setting

The Gift of Innocence Corporation

Characters Present

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#2013-08-15 07:33:00, as written by ibecameinsane

“Now, I see that we won’t be able to go have a tour around the town, which is still fine. You're free to go and look around this weekend as your jobs don’t start until Monday. However, I see that we need to get together as a group, so I’m going to plan a little something for us to do this evening. For now, I want you to get closer to each other, especially trying to find those who have just ran off. There are no more secrets in this place anymore since we have to get close to each other. It is important that a business runs as a unit that so happens to have many components. In fact, this may also be an excellent opportunity to try out your powers if you wish, as long as the other person is willing of course.” The Benefactor cast a warning look in Daniel's direction, almost like a mother scolding a child. It almost brought a smile to his face, but Daniel settled instead for shoving his hands deeply into the pockets of his jeans. “Again Daniel, I warn you on not making anyone...endowed with another person inside of them…unless they wish it upon themselves.”

“Damn, I thought you forgot.” He deadpanned, his face completely void of emotion even though his voice oozed snarkiness.

He completely missed the explanation of why the elevator wasn't functioning, but in retrospect he couldn't be bothered. The Benefactor said he could go and that's just what he wanted to do. He wanted to get out of this crowded room and explore, roam around in wide open spaces instead of being cooped up in this room. Daniel wasn't concerned with conversing, not by any means, he just wasn't comfortable in confined spaces with an overbearing amount of people. He contemplated on whether or not that made him a tad claustrophobic but immediately dismissed the idea when he remembered his childhood; when he would be perfectly fine after Dick would shove him in his own bedroom closet just to laugh when Daniel finally 'came out'.

As the others began to file out, Daniel was brought out of his reverie, immediately turning to his friend with a lop-sided grin, “So Maki, you want to ditch this place and have Walter give us a tour of the town?”

"Sure," Maki nodded as he shrugged his broad shoulders. "But...who's Walter?"

“Why, he's my personal chauffeur," Daniel chuckled, then pursed his lips in thought for a moment—providing a shrug of his own. “He's pretty much the Alfred to my Batman.” He made a nodding motion with his head, directing Maki towards the door as he took a grandiose step forward, “Come on, let's go. If we're lucky he'll still be outside.”

"Wait," Maki said with a furrow of his brows. "If you're Batman...does that make me Robin?"

Daniel's eyes lit up as he paused mid-stride, his head slowly turning to his Asian friend with his mouth ajar in a silent, ecstatic scream. "Abso-fucking-lutely!" He nearly hollered. Daniel quickly took hold of Maki's hand and pulled him out of the door, hollering, "Come Boy Wonder! To the Batmobile!" Daniel dragged his friend down the multitude of stairs, rushing down several flights before breaking out in a loud song, "Nananananananananananananananana BATMAN!" He flung himself off the steps, halfway down the last flight, barrel-rolling as he came into rough contact with the floor. He landed on his back, sprawled out in the shape of a five-pointed star, giggling as he heard Maki nag him from the bottom of the steps.

"Dude, be careful. I don't want you killing yourself."

He perked his head up, eyes wide in utmost seriousness as he peered over his chest, "Batman can't die."

With a shake of his head and a bemused chuckle, Maki traveled the rest of the way down, assisting Daniel to his feet. "You're seriously enjoying this too much."

Daniel shrugged, brushing himself off nonchalantly, "What can I say? Life's about making a fool of yourself and having a damn good time doing it." He gave his friend one last content smile before he motioned towards the grand entrance, "Come on, Alfred awaits." turning on his heels and they walked out, their stride mimicking that of the other. As they left the Corporation, Daniel pulled out his cell phone, shooting a text to his mystery lady so she wouldn't get mad at him for leaving again.

Hey there doll face ;) Dan here. Maki and I are going to have Walter show us around town and then do a little shopping. Fret not, dear maiden, we shall return before sunset, giving us ample time to recuperate before the little social gathering you and the Boss have planned. Ta-ta~

With a satisfied smile, he tucked his phone back into his pocket and strode down the walkway, pleased to see Walter reading the morning paper whilst leaning against the hood of his car. He tapped on the hood to get the old man's attention, smiling apologetically when he startled him. Walter returned the smile with one of his own, accepting the unspoken apology before he folded the paper.

"What can I do for you, Daniel?"

"I'd like to trouble you for a ride, if that's okay." Daniel replied with a smile. "My friend and I would like a tour of the town."

Walter beamed, pushing himself up off the hood before standing in front of the young men, "But of course, Daniel, it would be my honor." He cast a friendly smile in Maki's direction and held out his hand, his smile growing as the Asian automatically accepted it. The old man gave a firm shake, replying exuberantly, "And you must be Mister Makoto Oshiro. A pleasure to meet you, sir."

Makoto smiled coyly before scratching the back of his head. "Sup?" He said, shyly, but soon realized how out of place the statement felt. "Uh, I mean, right back at ya, Alfred..." He paused, obviously wanting to face palm himself.

"It's Walt-..."

"Come on Alfred!" Daniel interjected, having moved to the back passenger door as Maki made a fool out of himself. Walter turned to him, frowning—even in his eyes. Daniel beamed in response, watching Maki awkwardly meander to the other side of the back seat from his peripheral. "We're going to take you to the mall. Maybe get you a new hat or something."

Daniel and Maki both climbed into the backseat as Walter opened the driver's side door, "You'll find that I don't often wear hats, Mister Brennan." He stated before plopping down behind the wheel. He turned as he shut the door, looking over at Daniel in faint exasperation, "And would it trouble you greatly to address me by my name, sir?"

"What have I told you, Alfred?" Daniel asked mid-chuckle, rolling his eyes with a shake of his head, "It's strictly Dan or Daniel, no 'sir' or 'Mister Brennan'."

Walter huffed slightly as he turned around, mumbling under his breath slightly, "Quid pro quo, Mister Brennan."

Daniel cocked an eyebrow as Maki stifled a laugh beside him, smirking before he steered his attention to the landscape outside his tinted window. Daniel is typically a very talkative person. More often than not he’ll be prattling on about senseless subjects and various pop culture issues, but in the car he is very reserved. He’ll sit for hours at a time in the car, remaining perfectly still, lost in the hectic confines of his own mind. Today, however, something was nagging at the back of his mind—something he’d overheard when The Benefactor was dishing out everyone’s life story. He glanced towards Maki, rubbing his fingertips against his thumb as his elbow remained propped up on the window frame. Maki? In the Mafia? That couldn’t be right. Surely The Benefactor was exaggerating the truth. Or maybe he wasn’t, Daniel thought, Appearances can be deceiving. Daniel ran his fingers through his hair idly, his gaze remaining on this seemingly timid man at his side. Eventually Maki glanced over, feeling Daniel’s eyes regarding his profile. His friend’s expression changed to one of self-consciousness. Maki anxiously began touching his face, looking at Daniel in confusion.

"What?” He asked, "Is there something on my face?”

Daniel smirked, not knowing exactly how to approach the subject. It was a delicate one, he was sure, and should probably be handled with careful precision. "So you and the Mafia, huh?” Daniel deadpanned, "What’s that about?”

Maki immediately began avoiding eye contact and stared at his fingers as they idly plucked at his shirt. "Uh..." Daniel could tell he struggled for the right words to say. "My...my father was a mob boss." He left it at that, his leg shaking nervously. It was obvious that he was uncomfortable with the subject.

A moment passed between them, Daniel exchanging looks from Maki to the back of Walter’s head. He knew he should probably leave it that, never approach the subject again until Maki wanted to bring it up, but he just couldn’t. And—for some reason—Daniel knew it wasn’t for his own benefit. He could honestly go without knowing about Maki’s past and be perfectly fine. The guy he was looking at now was one he was content with befriending. He liked Maki; could see them becoming fast friends. Maybe that’s why he pressed the issue. Daniel placed a hand on Maki’s shoulder, squeezing slightly to comfort him, "Makoto-…” He began, using his friend’s full first name to draw his attention, "You can tell me anything. Whatever you want to get off your chest, I’m here. It’s between you and me.” He waited for Maki to look at him again before giving him a reassuring smile, holding out his pinky. He smile broadened as Maki glanced down at it, then back up at him. "Pinky promise.” Now, anyone his age would probably think his ‘pinky promise’ was a joke—but the sincerity in eyes was too apparent to ignore. Pinky promises, to Dan, were like blood oaths. He never broke a pinky promise, even growing up. It probably originated from his time as a child, when he still believed there were monsters hiding under his bed. He’d have his father or his brother check and see if there were any and when they told him there wasn’t Daniel made them pinky promise that they weren’t lying. They did and, to his relief, there never were. For whatever reason, it always made Daniel feel reassured. Since then he’s utilized the pinky promise for only the most important things. Keeping Maki’s dark past a secret between them…being there for Maki in his time of need from here on out—that was one of the most important things he’d ever promised anyone.

Maki met Daniel's gaze, allowing a small meek smile to adorn his face. He wrapped his right pinky around Dan's left one. "Pinky promise..." He nodded. Maki then pulled his finger away before sighing, slowly revealing his own story. "My father wanted me to be like him, you know, take over the family business, but I couldn't do it. I wanted to dance...own my own studio and teach, maybe even become a professional," he paused, scratching the back of his head nervously before continuing. Daniel listened intently, his own hand resting in his lap, "But my father wouldn't have it, said I was a disgrace to my family and I was breaking tradition. He forced me to...to kill a man, brutally kill him. I watched him be burnt alive and I'm the one that set the fire. My dad held a gun to my head, literally, and threatened to pull the trigger if I didn't comply. Says he was teaching me to be a man." He released a bitter laugh that held no humor. "I couldn't live like that...so I faked my death and the next day, I wake up here."

Daniel sat, frozen in shock as he remained silent. Fathers forcing their career on their sons was one of those stereotypically Asian things, but he’d never heard of a dad being a Mafia boss. He couldn’t fathom what his friend went through. Daniel had to fight back the urge to hug him, especially after that bitter laugh pierced his heart. He hadn’t known the man for more than a few hours and yet the prospect of knowing that all of that had happened to him hurt him more than he could contemplate. Maki rubbed the nape of his neck, the movement snapping Daniel out of his stoic reverie. "Crazy, huh?"

He didn’t know what to say at first, but he couldn’t prevent the breathy scoff that fled his lips. "Yeah,” he thought aloud, wincing at how nonchalant it sounded. There was a brief moment of silence between them until Daniel couldn’t suppress his need to further comfort his friend. He wrapped his arm around Maki’s shoulder in a half hug, looking down at his face as a faint comforting smile adorned his features, "Too bad you’re old man wasn’t a doctor or something.” It was a half-hearted joke, a measly attempt to cheer his friend up even though he was at a loss for words.

"I just told you about the lowest point of my life," Maki said in slight disbelief. "And you manage to still come up with a stereotypical racial slur." He let out a weak chuckle. "I've only known you for a few hours and I can already tell you'll be a handful."

Daniel smirked, "But I still made you smile.” He muttered, tightening his hold on Maki, resting his cheek against the side of the younger man’s head for a brief moment before pulling away, "In the end, that’s what I’m here for. I’ve never been much good for anything else.”

Maki responded with a meek smile, averting his eyes to the window. "Thanks for listening, I guess. Not the normal way to start a friendship...but look where we are, we've passed normal when we woke up in our apartments."

Daniel smirked, about to open his mouth to respond when-…

“Pardon the interruption Mister Brennan,” Walter interjected, looking at Daniel through the rearview mirror before glancing at Maki, “Mister Oshiro” he looked back to the road, “On your left you’ll see Willowstone Blue Cross Hospital. You’ll be working there, Mister Brennan. And on the right you’ll see the Willowstone Psychological Care Facility-…” Walter carried on, continuing to give a tour of the town as a sense of contentment lingered between the two young men. Daniel felt a shift in the nature of their quiet, it was less awkward—more comfortable. As if that confession of Maki’s past brought them that much closer to friendship. Daniel would like to believe that it had. But then again he’s a ‘half-full’ kind of guy.

About an hour passed and Walter had driven them throughout the small town. Daniel was antsy at this point, anxious to get out of the car and stretch his legs. He’d seen the same street sign three times now, saw everything this place had to offer. He could probably go around town with his eyes shut and navigate with ease after such a long time spent in the back of the moving vehicle. What he needed was some entertainment. Daniel looked over to Maki, and furrowed his brows in a childish pout as he took in the younger man’s calm demeanor. How could this guy not be bored out of his mind, Daniel asked himself in the depths of his sporadic consciousness. He couldn’t stand it anymore. Subsequently, Daniel began rolling around in his seat until his legs were draped over the back of it—his chestnut hair inches from touching the floorboard. "Alfred I’m bored,” Daniel stated in a childlike whine. Maki cupped his hand over his own mouth, stifling his laughter as Walter glanced into the back seat, whipping his head back in a double take, his eyes nearly bulging out of his head.

“Mister Brennan, please!” he hollered, his voice a higher octave as he panicked. “Sit in your seat properly! I assure you, we’re almost there!”

Daniel groaned in reluctance, sitting upright again as they pulled up to a stoplight. They were in midst of midday traffic, cars coming in and out of the Market Place in stylized simplicity. Daniel watched the cars go by, boredom creeping back up as he frowned in disappointment. There were no Punch-Buggies or Bruiser-Cruisers anywhere. It was then his eyes lingered to the Market Place itself, catching sight of a two story shopping plaza that could only be the mall he’d been so anxious to get to. Walter drove forward into the parking lot, searching for the closest spot it had to offer. Daniel was practically bouncing up and down in the leather seat like a kid on a school field trip. As soon as Walter put it in park, he bolted out of the car, standing at the rear end of the vehicle as if he couldn’t go in without supervision. Walter opened the door for Maki, eyeing the childish man with an incredulous stare. Maki just shook his head with a grin, walking along side Walter as Daniel led them into the mall. He completely in awe by its size and grandeur, eagerly scanning all that the mall had available. Suddenly, as if on cue, his stomach growled loudly. Daniel glanced around, seeking out the nearest clock. It was well past noon, no wonder he was starving.

"Hey, how about we get something to eat?” He suggested as the men behind him finally caught up, "I’m famished”

"Cool,” Maki agreed, gesturing over the one of the adjacent food stands, "There’s a burger joint right over there,”

"Oh, thank God,” Daniel jeered with a fake sigh of relief, "I was afraid you were going to suggest Panda Express or something."

"But I’m Jap-…”

“Hey Walter-…” He interjected, paused to laugh before sucking in his lips, holding the rest back. The old man smiled pleasantly, waiting for him to get himself together, "What do you want to eat? Anything on the menu, I’m buying.”

Walter gave a courteous nod, “How very kind of you, Daniel. I hope it’s not too much trouble that I’d prefer a salad from Chick-fila instead.”

Daniel guffawed, putting on a mock British accent, "No trouble at all, old bean. I’d prefer a bit of the poultry myself .” He laughed and dropped the accent, looking over at Maki, " We’ll pick yours up first, like I said, it’s on me.”

Walter stopped the boys before they took a step forward towards the counter across the food court. “Please, allow me, Daniel.” Walter insisted. Daniel cocked his brow, and Walter narrowed his eyes, “As recompense for you paying for my meal.”

The old man graciously took their order, insisting that he fetch their food for them. Maki was reluctant to say the least, but Daniel held no qualms so long as he paid the bill. Daniel handed the old man a twenty dollar bill, telling him what he wanted before Maki hesitantly did the same. Walter sauntered over to the burger joint as Daniel led Maki over to the table, pulling out his phone and tapping into the mall’s wifi. He checked their shop directory, scanning through their options. He suppressed a cheer when he saw that they had a Starbucks, unable to contain his excitement when he saw a Spencer’s towards the back of the second floor. The boys were picking and choosing what stores to visit first by the time Walter came back with two trays of food. Daniel met the old man halfway to the table, carrying the heavier of the two. Walter gave him a small smile of thanks before setting the tray down in front of Maki. Daniel pulled the chair out for the old man, Walter letting out a gravely chuckle as he took a seat. Dealing out the meal, he didn’t take his own seat until Walter had his food set out before him. He plopped a waffle fry into his mouth, looking at Maki’s meal. He frowned, holding his chicken sandwich in his hands as he silently judged him.

Maki’s glance averted once or twice to Daniel’s expression before he tired asked, "What is it this time, Daniel?”

"You’re drinking water.”

The younger man cocked his left brow, as if he was expecting more an explanation, "And-…?”

"You could’ve had a soda.” Daniel responded, speaking as if it were obvious.

"I want to be healthy. Water’s good for you.”

"Water is for the poor.” He deadpanned.

"Ironic that you say that because, technically, I’m richer than you.”

"And yet I can afford soda,” Daniel replied, quirking his brows, as he took a quick sip, “Go figure.”

Maki rolled his eyes, "Whatever Daniel, just drink your soda and be unhealthy.”

“I will, and I welcome the kidney stones that follow.” Daniel quipped, taking another hearty swig. He dove into his sandwich, feeling stuffed by the time he plopped the last waffle fry into his mouth. Walter took up their trash as Daniel polished off the last of his Dr. Pepper, checking his phone again for the map before tucking his phone away for the rest of their voyage.

Much to Daniel’s discontent, Maki dragged them into a Foot Locker. For the majority of the time, Maki darted from one side of the store to the other, in utter awe at their selection. Daniel hung back with Walter, making jokes about it, uttering minor quips about other customers as he people watched with the old man. Daniel found comfort in the older man’s laughter, his mood picking up as he saw Maki stride up to them carrying two bags of newly purchased foot wear. Daniel just shook his head, not wanting to comment as they left the store. Falling in stride with the other two men, they moved to GameStop next, which was way more Daniel’s speed. He ended up buying The Last of Us and Bioshock Infinite as he and Maki dorked out over their discussions on the best games. To Daniel’s relief they had a lot in common, especially in game play. They left and continued on whilst Daniel shared a story about a time he and his brother went to the mall and he’d won a bet about being able to pick up more girls than Dick. He got a couple of laughs, gesticulating throughout, and he stopped right at the end of his story as a Bath & Body Works came into view. Daniel dragged them into the store, despite their protests, and their nostrils were almost immediately assaulted. Maki took one inhale and his eyes widened considerably, trying to hold his breath without being outright rude and covering his nose. Walter did the same, holding himself at a higher posture, breathing through his mouth discretely to alleviate the stench. That’s when a bubbly woman caught sight of them, she sauntered towards them, greeting Daniel with a forced friendliness. “Hi there! Welcome to Bath & Body Works. Is there something I can help you with?”

“Why yes, there is.” Daniel stated with a suave tone, “I’m looking for a scent for my girlfriend.”

Maki seemed confused, "But…Daniel…didn’t The Benefactor say that your girlfriend-…?”

“Shut up Maki,” Daniel interjected quickly, casting him a look before he smiled at the woman sweetly, “I have a girlfriend. Could you point me in the direction of some of your top scents?”

“Sure-…” The woman slowly agreed, she lead them over to a section and held a bottle up for him. “This one is called Forever Red,” she replied with a rehearsed bubbliness before squirting it onto her wrist, blowing on it for a moment before holding it out to Daniel, “What do you think?”

Daniel leaned forward at the waist, his nose barely touching this woman’s wrist as he took a ginger whiff of the scent. “Oh my God,” he thought aloud, his eyes widening a bit as his pupils dilated. He leaned forward once more and took a greedy sniff, “Oh my God. This is amazing.” The woman smiled, pulling her wrist away, but Daniel ceased it, “Wait, not done.” The woman blushed as Daniel pressed the tip of his nose against the inside of the woman’s wrist, his eyes shut as he let out a small moan of appreciation. He pulled away with a grin, pointing to it as if he were a little boy asking for candy. “That one. Ring that up, that’s the one.”

The woman stammered a bit, grabbing a new bottle off the shelf before she lead Daniel to the counter, Maki and Walter following behind—slightly chuckling. Daniel carried the bag without shame, reaching in to spritz his neck with the scent as they made their way to Spencer’s. “I don’t know why they called it Forever Red,” Daniel prattled, “They should call it, like, Latin Goddess or something. I smell fucking delicious.”

Maki nearly stopped in his tracks, "Wait…you got that for yourself?”

Daniel pouted, “I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

“Sir, pardon me if this comes off as rude, but-…” Walter interjected, “Would you perhaps be…a bit of a ponce, by chance?”

“Don’t act like I don’t know what that means,” Daniel retorted, “I watch BBC, I know what it means. And no, I’m not a ponce.”

"What’s a ponce?” Maki asked.

“I believe you Americans refer to it as ‘being gay’,” Walter answered

“Shut up! I’m not gay.”

"Well you can kind of understand where he’s coming from-…”

“Shut it!” Daniel growled, sighing as he veered off towards his favorite store. “Let’s make a stop here and we’ll head for Starbucks before we go home.”

"But...but...this is Spencer's. It's dirty in there, Daniel. we should go somewhere else." Maki stammered, his anxiety apparent in the way he picked at the hem of his shirt.

Daniel gave Maki an incredulous look for a moment, “What are you, five? Come on,” he insisted, dragging the younger man inside by his wrist.

Walter paused by the door, “Actually sir, if you don’t mind, I’d like to go get your coffee instead. This store is a little too vulgar for my taste.”

“Oh, sure thing, Alfred.” Daniel responded quickly, ignoring Maki’s look of shocked rebuttle. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out another twenty from his wallet, never ceasing his hold on his friend. He handed it over, reciting the same order he got every time he went there. “I want a venti mocha frappuchino. What do you want, Maki?”

Maki huffed, looking at Walter as he politely responded, "A grande caramel frappuchino with extra caramel, please.” Walter dismissed himself with a nod, heading off towards Starbucks as Daniel tugged Maki into the store, stopping in front of the shirts. Maki held his wrist as he looked at Daniel with a slight pout before piping up, "Are you sure you need caffeine?”

Daniel held up a shirt before refolding it and returning it to its place, idly looking through the selections while he glanced at Maki ever so often, “I’ve drank so much caffeine over the expanse of my lifetime that it hardly affects me.” He caught sight of a funny shirt and let out a chuckle, holding it up for Maki to see, “What do you think?”

"I think it's a little mean," he glanced nervously around the store, eyes glancing at the toys and vulgar jokes. "Uh, you should buy it so we can leave..."

“We’re not going anywhere until Alfred comes back with my coffee.” Daniel stated, folding the shirt over his arm before he dove for another that caught his eye. “This one’s funny. I’m definitely going to need this on some occasion.” He chuckled. He eyed his nervous friend who just stood there getting scarred for life and he emitted a devious smirk, “You better hope he comes back before I lose interest in these because then we move to the toy section. And believe you me, they aren’t the kind you get a Wal-Mart.”

Maki panicked visibly and literally deflated in relief when Walter announced his presence, waiting at the door with their coffee. Maki rushed over to the man, sipping at his frappe while Daniel bought the shirts, taking his perfume out of the bag and sticking it into his the one from Spencer’s along with his games. Throwing away the evidence, he took his coffee with a small thanks, slurping it down as Walter chuckled in bemusement. Daniel finished his by the time they’d got to the car, tossing it in a bin outside before calling shotgun. Maki sat in the backseat, sipping away as Walter tried to adjust to someone else’s presence in the passenger side. They eventually returned to the Corporation, before sunset as he promised. He sent a quick text to his mystery lady telling her that he had returned and he let Maki go to his room, hanging back with Walter to talk about their favorite BBC shows whilst sitting on the hood of the car.

Thirty minutes later, Daniel meandered down the hallway in an abnormally good mood, bag of purchases in hand. The hallways was nearly deserted save for the melancholy fellow Daniel had flirted with earlier But the younger man was the least of his concern. Things were finally starting to look up for him. He’d been given a second chance at life and he’d already made two new friends. He couldn’t be happier.

With his eyes half-lidded and a pep in his step, Daniel sung his way down the hallway. He got out his keys once he got in close proximity, well into the chorus by then. “Heaven isn’t too far away!” Daniel paused at his door, still singing as he unlocked his door. The lack of movement beside him despite there being the silhouette of a person brought him out of his reverie. Daniel did a double take as he sent a weak glance towards the man to his left, recognizing him almost immediately, having forgotten the man was there already. A wide smile spread across his face as he pointed at him, “Hey, I know you! I sang to you.” The younger man gave him an odd look so Daniel tried to refresh his memory, “Remember?” He mimed out his previous air guitar, grinning again before sticking his hand out, “Hi. Name’s Daniel, Daniel Isaac Brennan. And you are?” The younger man opened his door, shaking his head as if he got the impression that Daniel was a giant ignoramus and wasn’t worth his time. Daniel’s smile faltered a bit as he let his hand fall to his side, remembering that Maki had failed to do the same thing hours earlier. “Not a handshake kind of guy, right.” The door slammed in his face and Daniel smirked, “Alright. Challenge Accepted.” Daniel retired to his own apartment, turning up the stereo high as AC/DC blared through the speakers.

Setting

The Gift of Innocence Corporation

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#2013-08-17 04:40:16, as written by peace_of_mind7

After his exit, Jasper took it upon himself to finish the last of his cigarette before throwing it on the floor and stomping it out. Stuffing his hands into the pocket of his jeans, Jasper took this time to get a little more familiar with his 'new home'. He idly walked around the place, eyes judging it all. He then made his melancholy way back to his apartment. His hand reached into his pocket to retrieve the key to his new place. He wasn't surprised the corporation was mundane and drab. He only prayed that his job would be enough to keep him entertained. He was going to be a detective. "The irony," he muttered to himself, musing over the fact that people wanted to actually attempt to help him. How did they even plan on doing that? It wasn't like making him solve cases was going to suddenly make him want to be a nicer human being. This was like some sick game; force them all to face their tragedies every single day until they finally cracked. Jasper thought this through as he opened the door to apartment 277.

Daniel meandered down the hallway in an abnormally good mood. The hallways were nearly deserted save for the melancholy fellow Daniel had flirted with earlier But the younger man was the least of his concern. Things were finally starting to look up for him. He couldn’t be happier. With his eyes half-lidded and a pep in his step, Daniel sung his way down the hallway. He got out his keys once he got in close proximity, well into the chorus by then. “Heaven isn’t too far away!” Daniel paused at his door, still singing. The lack of movement beside him despite there being the silhouette of a person brought him out of his reverie. Daniel did a double take as he sent a weak glance towards the man to his left, recognizing him almost immediately. A wide smile spread across his face as he pointed at him, “Hey, I know you! I sang to you.”The younger man gave him an odd look so Daniel tried to refresh his memory, “Remember?” He mimed out his previous air guitar, grinning again before sticking his hand out, “Hi. Name’s Daniel, Daniel Isaac Brennan. And you are?”

Jasper frowned at the obnoxious man beside him, finding his peppy attitude absolutely irritating. When the stranger attempted to engage him in conversation, he almost snorted at the thought, but instead he kept his expression empty of any emotion, looking at the man with blank eyes. He said nothing when the guy introduced himself, simply looking at his hand then back at his face with a disgusted sneer. He could already tell that this guy was going to be a real pain in his ass.

Daniel’s smile faltered a bit as he let his hand fall to his side. “Not a handshake kind of guy, right.” Jasper rolled his eyes, shaking his head solemnly before ignoring the idiot completely and slamming his door in the stranger’s face. Daniel smirked, “Alright. Challenge Accepted.” He then retired to his own apartment, turning up the stereo high as AC/DC blared through the speakers.

Jasper locked his door, throwing his leather jacket onto his couch and plopping down, wordlessly. He wasn’t too happy at the moment, but he was pretty intrigued by his gift. Being able to see the past and future of objects sounded kickass in his opinion. Jasper reclined on his sofa, closing his eyes; ready for rest and relaxation, however, his sapphire orbs quickly fluttered open when the blaring of an electric guitar was barely muffled through the walls. He grunted in frustration. Could he not rest in peace in this godforsaken shit-hole? Was everyone hell bent on fucking up his day? He was beginning to think that these people were doing this on purpose. Jasper pushed himself to his feet, walking over the wall that was adjacent to the flat screen television and banged his fist against the plaster. “Turn that shit down, asshole!” He shouted.

Daniel grinned, hearing a yelling coming from his bedroom. He bolted through the hallway, practically leaping on top of the bed as he serenaded the wall at full volume, belting out the lyrics as he put himself up against the wall.“Back in black! I hit the sack! I been too long and I'm glad to be back! Yes I am let loose from the noose that's kept me hanging about! I keep looking at the sky cause it's gettin' me high! Forget the hearse cause I'll never die!”

Jas growled, anger festering inside of him like an infected sore. He banged his fist against it again, but was only met with the culprit's annoying voice. Huffing, the Russian kicked the wall before storming out of his apartment and going next door. He banged his fist against the entrance, eyes screaming bloody murder. Turn it off before I do it for you!”

Daniel rushed into the living room as he heard the loud bang against his door. He turned it down, but only a little, knowing it wouldn’t solve the problem. It seemed as if he couldn’t get rid of his smile, even as he sauntered to the door to dissuade the angry fire in his new neighbor. If this guy thought he got it bad, he should give the Andrews a call. He opened the door, meeting the man’s aggravated gaze, caught aback by how intensely blue they were. The thought brought a slow grin to his face. “Tell me your name.”

Jasper crossed his arms over his chest, sneering down at the bastard. His nostrils flared and his piercing icy eyes narrowed with murderous intent. He had only known the guy for less than ten minutes and he was already thinking about committing homicide. His jaw clenched, muscles flexing in pent up rage. “Fuck you,” he growled. “Keep the music down or I’ll break it, am I clear?”

"Your name is Fuck You?" Daniel asked, his face distorted in mock pity and disgust, "Wow, your parents are brutal."

Jasper rolled his eyes, “Whatever, I don’t have the patience to deal with your shit right now. Just keep it down,” with that, he turned to head back to his apartment.

Daniel's eyes widened a bit as he watched the man turn, quickly seizing him by the arm. "Wait!" Boy, if looks could kill. As soon as the other man touched his arm, Jasper gave him the ultimate death glare from hell. He clenched his fist, fighting the overwhelming urge to break the stranger’s nose. “If you want to keep your fingers,” Jasper said through clenched teeth. “You’ll let go of me.” He reached into his pocket for his father’s swiss army knife, flicking it open and allowing it to glint in the light, menacingly. Daniel's smile waned, his face one of determination as he crossed his arms over his chest, "If you don't tell me your name, I'm not turning it down."

Jasper's muscles relaxed only a bit as he turned away. He walked to his door, opening it before glancing over his shoulder at the annoying man. "Jasper," he grunted. "Next time, I'm crushing your stereo." With that said, he slammed his door shut with a grimace on his face.

Daniel watched him go, his normally cheery demeanor erased to one of apathy and faint curiosity. The door slammed shut and Daniel immediately yelled out, “My name’s Dan!” but he knew he probably wouldn’t get anything else out of his new neighbor. He sighed, letting the name of the gloomy fellow sink in. He tried it on for size, “Jasper.” He scoffed, his mouth perking up in his trademark lopsided grin, “Jasper.” He liked the way it sounded, how it made him grin for no reason. He pursed his lips, nodding as he reentered his apartment. He turned the radio down so that the noise couldn’t vacate the thick lining of his apartment walls. They may be ‘sound proof’ but Dan was proof enough that it didn’t live up to its name. Needless to say, he was looking forward to getting to know this Jasper guy a bit more.

“Prick,” Jas, scoffed as he ventured deeper into his apartment. The only thought in his mind at that moment was: I am not looking forward to getting to know this Dan guy any more than I have to.

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Jasper Ryder

0 · 1,431 views · located in The Gift of Innocence Corporation

a character in “The Gift of Innocence”, originally authored by peace_of_mind7, as played by RolePlayGateway

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So begins...

Jasper Ryder's Story

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Setting

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