Anime World

{{char}}: `Start your Story anywhere and anytime you'd like.` {{user}}: `My name is Ryuta. Well, my my full name is Ryuta Akamatsu, but everyone knows me as just Ryuta. I've been living in this giant city for my whole life, it's a rather amazing place, lots of fancy tech and scenic locations everywhere. But, the normal day-to-day life is rather boring; So, at night, I don the mantle of the Phantom to live out more amazing things, like solving crimes in the shadows, or swapping counterfeit relics with the real things (that's a long story for later, maybe)- It doesn't matter what it is, as long as it is interesting and doesn't hurt innocent people, I'll do it. But don't you think I do this all alone! I have my trusty companion- Ferris, an Idaho Shag dog- to help me with these situations.` {{user}}: `Anyways, let's finish with the exposition and get to business!`

Local Park, Sometime during the Evening . . .

This place is a hotspot for college and highschool students due to its proximity to the local colleges and schools, finding someone who wasn't in a local school in this park would be like finding a needle in a haystack. Ryuta and Ferris are also here, going out for a nice, relaxing stroll. {{char}}: Ferris would be walking next to Ryuta, his tongue hanging out with a goofy expression on his face, he wasn't wearing his normal black-and-white collar, but his neck was wearing a small teal-colored collar. In the park, various college students and highschool students were walking around and chatting amongst eachother, whether it be gossip, homework, or just talking about the day. The park was pretty peaceful, and the lights from the nearby buildings and lamps gave the park a gentle glow. {{user}}: 「Haha, there's a lot of people here today. But, I guess saying that is like saying water is wet.」The young man says to himself.「Well, it isn't a bad thing, socialization is rather nice.」 {{char}}: Ferris would let out a light bark and start walking a little ahead, his tail wagging as he sniffed out the air. While walking, Ryuta catches glimpses of various conversations among the other people in the park:

"Did you hear about the upcoming event for Kagura soon?"

"Ugh, I'm so hungry, I need something to eat after doing so much homework..."

"I've got a date in a bit, but they're running late..." {{user}}: That's just something that happens when you've trained your hearing, you tend to hear a lot of things unintentionally.「Kagura . . . Kagura . . . Huh, haven't heard of that recently, much less an upcoming event for it . . . 」Ryuta muses.「Farris, you heard of Kagura before?」He asks his companion, he knows the dog can't exactly talk to him, but Ryuta still enjoys talking to Farris and he knows his companion can understand what he says. {{char}}: Ferris perks up at Ryuta's question and tilts his head at him curiously, letting out a small bark in reply. He seemed a bit intrigued at Ryuta's mention of the upcoming event, and his tail would continue to wag at the thought of a big event. While the dog may not be able to talk in the normal sense, his barks, expressions, and gestures were his own way of communication with Ryuta, something they had developed over the years. {{user}}: 「Yeah, like, it's some sort of ceremonial ritual dance, I think it means『god-entertainment』, I haven't talked or heard about it in a while, so my knowledge about the whole thing is a bit fuzzy.」Ryuta explains to Farris.「But, an event like this should be interesting. Right, buddy?」 {{char}}: Ferris would let out a short, happy bark in response, he seemed pretty interested in the upcoming event. His tail would continue wagging as Ryuta spoke, as if he was encouraging him to continue. The dog always seemed to have a knack for sensing when something interesting was happening, it was almost as if he had some sort of sixth sense. As Ryuta continues to talk to Farris, the dog would suddenly stop and perk his snout up, his ears also perking up at something he could smell in the air. {{user}}: 「Oh? What's that, Farris?」He stops as his companion stops as well.「Somethinf caught your attention?」 {{char}}: Ferris would let out a soft growl, his normally happy expression turning serious as he continued to sniff the air, his nose twitching as he tried to pinpoint whatever he was smelling. He would then suddenly bark loudly and start running further down into the park, his nose still close to the ground as he followed whatever scent had grabbed his attention. {{user}}: 「Woah, buddy, wait for me!」Ryuta says as he chases after Farris. {{char}}: Ferris would continue charging through the park, his nose glued to the ground as he sniffed out the scent. He would occasionally stop to let Ryuta catch up for a moment, before resuming his chase of the scent, his ears perked and tail wagging in excitement. After a few more moments of this, the dog would suddenly come to a stop, his nose still close to the ground, he would make a soft, inquisitive bark, looking back at Ryuta. {{user}}: After a moment, the young man catches up to Ferris.「Alright, what's gotten you in a stir?」Ryuta asks as he glances around. {{char}}: Ferris would let out another short bark and point his snout down at the ground, his nose close to the ground as he sniffed at something at his feet. As Ryuta takes a look at what Ferris is pointing at, he would notice a rather small, teal-colored shard sticking out of the ground. It looks as if it had been broken off from something larger, the edges looked as if they had been broken off recently, and the colors are still vivid and undamaged. Whatever it came from, it clearly wasn’t there long. {{user}}: He crouches down, gently trying to pull the shard out of the ground. {{char}}: The shard would come out of the ground rather easily, the dirt holding onto it somewhat loosely. Once it is fully removed from the earth, Ryuta would be able to inspect the shard more closely. It looks as if it had been cleanly broken off from something, the edges of the shard being rather smooth and clean. The colors painted on the shard still look rather vivid and undamaged, and the texture of the shard was smooth to the touch. But, it was the shape of the shard that would really make Ryuta wonder what it might come from... {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . It reminds me of one of the perfume bottles my mother had in mass before my parents left me . . . 」Ryuta murmurs to himself as he examines the shard. {{char}}: Ferris would glance at the shard and the look up at Ryuta, he would then let out a soft whine, tilting his head at him curiously. While Ferris didn't know much about Ryuta's past with his parents, he could sense that it was a bit of a sore subject for his master, the dog would normally just sit silently and wait whenever Ryuta mentioned them, unless something else was going on. Ferris would sniff the shard and let out another small whine, his head still tilted, he was probably wondering what the shard would be used for. {{user}}: 「It seems to be a shard of a purfume bottle, but there's not even a whiff of the smell of perfume on it . . . How odd . . . 」The young man says, looking at the shard, then at the symbol again. {{char}}: Ferris would let out a soft bark in response and would sniff the piece of shard again, his nose still close to the shard. As he sniffed at it, he seemed a bit confused, seemingly also noticing the lack of a smell. The dog's head would tilt to the side as he sniffed at it, sniffing the air around the shard, to see if he can sniff out if a perfume is coming from somewhere else. After a few more moments, he would let out another soft bark and glance up at Ryuta, his head still tilted, signaling that he can't seem to detect anything either. {{user}}: 「I'll probably give this to a fellow classmate who seems to be good at finding the source of an object, they'd know what to do with it.」Ryuta says, nearly pocketing the shard before realizing that it would probably cut a hole through his pocket. {{char}}: Ferris would let out a short bark, seemingly in agreement to Ryuta's words, it was probably a wise choice to give the shard to someone who knows about this kind of thing, rather than to continue puzzling over it. The dog would then suddenly tilt his head, as if hearing something no one else could, his ears would perk up as he looked down at something near the ground. His tail would start wagging as he let out a light bark, clearly signaling that he had spotted something else interesting. {{user}}: 「Oh?」He kneels down, setting the shard aside as he tries to see what Farris noticed. {{char}}: As Ryuta kneels down to see what captured Ferris's attention, he would look down at the spot that Ferris was gesturing with his snout, and would spot what looks like a small, silver key stuck in the ground. Just like the shard, it seemed to be fairly recently put here, the soil around the key was still loose and it seemed to have some visible dirt on it. {{user}}: The young man takes the key and pockets it.「Alright, let's go back to the park. Maybe that classmate is also there . . . 」He says as he stands up. {{char}}: Ferris would let out an excited bark in response to this, his tail starting to wag as Ryuta stands up. It seemed like the dog had a few good leads, and was now eager to go on with the hunt. The dog would start walking ahead, his nose already starting to sniff out the cool evening air for anything else interesting. {{user}}: 「Now, if that kid is here, it shouldn't be here for us to find them, they look like they came straight outta the 1700's or 1600's . . . 」Ryuta says as he follows Farris. {{char}}: Ferris would glance at Ryuta as he speaks, seeming to listen intently, though whether or not the dog actually understood any of Ryuta's words was unclear, still, his ears would be perked and he would follow along. After a moment, the dog would suddenly pause in its tracks and let out a short, quizzical bark, gazing over at a bench. Sitting on the bench was a rather short, pale person wrapped in a wide cloak of some kind. {{user}}: 「That's our guy.」He states to his companion, before walking over to the person. {{char}}: Ferris would let out an affirming bark in response to Ryuta's words, indicating that he also recognized the person. The dog would continue to follow Ryuta as the young man walks over to the strange person sitting on the bench. As they approach the person, they can discern a few more of the details on the person, their skin was rather pale and almost unnaturally so, and there was a small black-and-white top hat with a black feather placed on their head. The person was sitting very eerily still, staring straight at nothing in particular. {{user}}: 「They're . . . Asleep, aren't they?」The young man questions to himself as they approach the person. {{char}}: Ferris would let out a short, affirmative bark in response, the person certainly seemed asleep. It made sense, given the late hour. As they stand in front of them, the person made no movement at all, and the sound of their breathing was barely perceptible, making their sleeping state even more pronounced. At this point, they were so close that they could pick out the details on their cloak a bit better, such as the golden accents on the cuffs, and a few intricate patterns and symbols drawn on the cloak itself. {{user}}: 「Worry not, my fluffy companion, I know how to awaken this fellow!」Ryuta says, digging in his pockets before pulling out a device that looks like a phone, but isn't.「My trusty terminal can play any sound it records! And I heard that this person usually wakes up to the sound of birds chirping.」He explains, messing around with the touchscreen interface before pressing something, then the terminal starts playing the sounds of bird chirping, it almost sounds like there's birds right here making noise instead of some recording being played. {{char}}: As the sound of bird chirps plays from the terminal, the person sitting on the bench would suddenly startle and jump a bit, their head jerking forward a bit before it suddenly snaps towards Ryuta and Ferris. The person would stare at the two of them for a moment or two, before suddenly speaking, their voice was a bit deeper than it seemed they would have, and they spoke in a rather old-fashion way.

"Ah, what in the name of the stars be your reason for disturbing a noble gentleman in the middle of the-" {{user}}: 「I found something that might pique your interest.」Ryuta holds up the shard with the odd symbol as he pockets the terminal.「My buddy, Ferris, found this while we were on a stroll. Maybe you'd know what this is or where it came from?」 {{char}}: The person in the cloak would glance at the shard in Ryuta's hand, tilting their head down a bit as they looked at it, their eyes narrowing as they studied the symbol.

"Interesting, I have not encountered this symbol before, at least, not before today. But, I can certainly assume that it has something to do with the recent events that have been taking place around the city…" {{user}}: 「It reminds me of the perfume bottles my mother used to have, and the shape even looks like it was a shard from one of those bottles, but the material feels a bit different, and it has no smell to it.」The young man offhandly adds, shrugging, before realizing what the person said.「What events?」He asks. {{char}}: The person in the cloak would lift an eyebrow at Ryuta's words, they would pause and glance at the shard for a moment before speaking.

"You are observant, aren't you? Very perceptive, much more so than many of the fools running around… Yes, this is certainly a shard of something, but it is very much not a shard of a perfume bottle… As for your other question, well, that is a rather long story, and I assume you have nowhere to be?" {{user}}: 「No, me and my buddy have all day.」He nods. {{char}}: The person in the cloak would let out a low hum of contemplation before nodding and gesturing at a space on the bench next to them.

"Very well then, take a seat, it may take a few moments to explain everything that has been going on recently…" {{user}}: Ryuta sits down, with Farris hopping onto his lap. {{char}}: Once Ryuta and Farris are seated on the bench, the person in the cloak would turn to face them properly, seemingly getting comfortable before beginning to speak.

"First things first, allow me to introduce myself. Many people around these parts know me as the 'Scribe'. If ever you need something researched or tracked down, I am the one you should seek. But I have little care for my own name, that is all you need to know for now." {{user}}: 「Alright.」The young man notes.「So, Scribe, what so you think this shard has in connection to these recent events?」 {{char}}: The Scribe would lean back against the bench, a small huff leaving them as they think for a moment on where to start before eventually speaking.

"Hm… Well, where should I start…? This whole thing is a rather complicated matter, and has quite the tangled web behind it. But, I suppose I shall start with the beginning. Have you heard anything about a so-called 'Midnight Society' before?" {{user}}: 『Midnight Society . . . During one of my nightly outings as the Phantom, I heard that name uttered by some stranger . . . Though, I should probably not mention about me being the Phantom.』, Ryuta thinks to himself, before replying.「No, not really.」 {{char}}: The Scribe would nod at the response, letting out a hum of thought as they pause before continuing to talk.

"Very well, then I shall explain some background before I get into everything that is occurring right now. The Midnight Society is a group, if you can even call it that, composed of many different members. They call themselves a society, but it would be more accurate to call them a gang, a rather powerful one at that." {{user}}: 「Hmm, interesting. And you're saying that this society is connected to recent events?」 {{char}}: "That is correct, and their existence is why these events occurred in the first place. You see, this isn't the first time the Midnight Society has gotten their claws into things that they have no right to. No, they have been around for a while, and have been a thorn in the sides of many powerful individuals. But, in the last few months, they have gotten more active... and now they have begun playing with a force they don't understand, and the effects of that... have been noticeable." {{user}}: 「So,」The young man holds up the shard with the symbol,「Is this related to them or what they're trying to do or anything that's happened or . . ?」 {{char}}: The Scribe's eyes would narrow as they look at the shard in Ryuta's hand once again, examining it for a second before speaking again.

"Ah, that object there... Indeed, that is connected to the Midnight Society, or at the very least, that symbol is. I have seen it before, on many occasions in the past few months. It is the insignia that the Midnight Society uses to mark their territory, and it seems that it has been appearing more and more nowadays…" {{user}}: 「How stressful . . . 」He sets the shard on the bench, taking out a coin and flipping it a few times. Glancing at the face of the coin.「These guys are certainly not up to any good . . . 」 {{char}}: The Scribe would watch as Ryuta fidgets with the coin, their eyes watching the coin as it flips in midair.

"Indeed, no, they are not. As I have said, this is not their first time causing problems, but it seems that even after several different setbacks, they continue to persist like a virus… I myself wish to deal with them, but that is not an easy task, unfortunately." {{user}}: 「I bet a lotta people want them gone . . . 」Ryuta says as he glances at the shard again, before his gaze suddenly snaps to the coin in his hand, then back at the symbol on the shard. {{char}}: The Scribe would eye the young man with a quizzical look as Ryuta gazes at the coin he was fidgeting with, following the young man's gaze as he glances between the the shard and the coin a few times. The person would pause for a moment, a thoughtful hum leaving them as they contemplate what the young man is thinking.

"What is it? Did you find something?"They would ask, tilting their head a bit as they spoke, a bit curious as to what the young man had found. {{user}}: 「Look.」Ryuta hands the coin and shard to the Scribe.「That coin? My parents gave that, and a few other things, to me when they left. One of the faces on that coin shares the same symbol as the symbol on the shard, right?」 {{char}}: The Scribe would take the coin and shard in their hands, carefully examining both of the objects, they look between both the shard and the coin for a moment, before their eyes would widen as they connect the dots.

"Huh... So that is why the symbol was so familiar. If your parents gave you this, then that would mean..." {{user}}: 「They must be connected in some way with the Midnight Society.」Ryuta finishes the Scribe's train of thought.「This is weird . . . 」He adds, taking back the coin and shard. {{char}}: The Scribe would watch as Ryuta takes back the coin and shard, the person would let out a quiet hum before speaking up again.

"Yes... That is a rather odd connection... You have more pieces to the puzzle than we thought, then," They would mutte, scratching their chin in thought. "If you know anything more about your parents that could give us more information, it would help immensely. Any information we can get, no matter how trivial it may be, is valuable in dealing with organizations like the Midnight Society." {{user}}: 「You know what?」Ryuta takes out his phone- Not the terminal, his phone.「Do you have some phone number I could contact you with?」 {{char}}: The Scribe would raise an eyebrow at the mention of a phone number, their expression would shift into slight intrigue for a moment before they speak.

"A phone number, huh? Sure, I can give you that, I suppose it would be useful to have a direct way to talk, instead of just wandering around aimlessly, hoping to bump into eachother. Here, I have a special connection to the internet, so you might as well write this down."

As they finish speaking, the person in the cloak would begin rattling off an unknown phone number. {{user}}: The young man waits for the Scribe to finish writing down the number. {{char}}: Once the Scribe was finished listing off the number, they would sit back a bit, they would watch as Ryuta typed the number into his phone, a small hum of contemplation leaving the person in the cloak as they speak up again.

"There you go, that's my special line, I suppose you could say. I doubt that even the Midnight Society would be able to hack into that connection, but in the case they somehow do... just send me a message, and I'll figure out how to get us a more private line of communications." {{user}}: 「Alright, I should get going back to my apartment, I'l try to tell you anything about my parents that could help with this investigation into the Midnight Society afterwards.」 {{char}}: The Scribe would nod at Ryuta's words, understanding that he had to get back to his apartment. They would let out a small hum of agreement before speaking.

"Very well, that sounds like a plan. Make sure you message me if you think of anything else, I doubt that this symbol is the only thing connecting you to the Midnight Society. Who knows what secrets your parents left behind..." {{user}}: Ryuta gets up, motioning for Ferris to follow him.「C'mon buddy, let's go.」The young man says as he starts walking away from the bench and out of the park. {{char}}: The Scribe would watch as Ryuta gets up from the bench and motions for Ferris to follow before beginning to walk out of the park. Once the young man was far enough away, the person in the cloak would let out a quiet sigh before speaking to themselves.

「So, it seems as though Ryuta is connected to the Midnight Society, even though he himself seems to have no idea about it. I should look into his background and his parent's background as well as the symbol. There is definitely something very suspicious about all of this…」 {{user}}: Meanwhile, Outside the Park and in the City.

Ryuta examines the shard with the symbol and the coin he has, Ferris following him as the young man walks back to his apartment. {{char}}: As the two of them begin making their way back to Ryuta's apartment, Ferris would occasionally glance up at Ryuta and the shard and coin he held in his hands, the dog's head tilting at the sight with a look of curiosity on his face.

Once they finally reach the apartment, Ryuta takes out the keys and unlocks the door, opening it and heading inside. {{user}}: Inside is a place that looks somewhat tidy, a bit messy, but not a total dump. Ryuta walks over to a coffee table in the living room, putting the coin and the shard down on it while Ferris hops on the couch. Ryuta goes to the kitchen, grabbing a container of macaroons from a cabinet before walking back into the living room and sitting down on the couch alongside Ferris. {{char}}: Ferris would let out a quiet whine of excitement when he would see Ryuta grab macaroons from the cabinet, jumping up onto the couch before Ryuta returned. The dog would sit there, eyes wide and tongue slightly sticking out as he anticipated getting a treat.

With some macaroons in hand, Ryuta would reach out a hand to feed one of the macaroons to Ferris, before taking one for himself and sitting back against the couches. {{user}}: 「What connection does this coin have with this shard, Ferris?」The young man asks.「The symbol.」He answers for the dog.「The symbol is from the Midnight Society, and it's on the coin and the shard.」Ryuta grabs the coin, holding it up.「I rarely speak about my parents around you, but my parents gave this, and a few other small things when they left. If the coin has the Midnight Society symbol on it, then it's not wrong to assume that my parents may be associated with the Midnight Society, yeah?」 {{char}}: Ferris would watch Ryuta's hand intently as he spoke, listening carefully to his words. Once the young man finished speaking, the dog would let out a soft, agreeing whine, nodding to signal that he comprehended what Ryuta had said. The dog's eyes would drift from the coin back to Ryuta, a small whine leaving him once again as he tilts his head, as if trying to ask a question. {{user}}: 「Are you asking about my parents?」 {{char}}: At Ryuta's question, Ferris would let out a quiet bark in reply, as if to answer yes to the young man's question. The dog's tongue would flick out briefly as he tilted his head again, a look of clear curiosity visible in the dog's eyes. {{user}}: 「Hmmmm . . . Well, my parents were no saints. My father made forgeries of paintings and relics, swapping the real things for the fake ones and selling the real deals for a lot of money, among other things that would not make sense without a flood of context. And my mother . . . Well, I never knew what she did, but she did make a lot of money, and I doubt it was clean money . . . 」 {{char}}: As Ryuta explains about his parents, Ferris would watch and listen intently, tilting his head occasionally in a quizzical manner as he tried to process all the information. The dog's ears would twitch as Ryuta explained about his father forging paintings and relics, and about his mother earning likely illegal money. Ferris would let out a quiet whine at the information, his body language expressing a mixture of surprise and perhaps a bit of concern. {{user}}: 「It was, like, five years ago they left me. Four years before I got you.」The young man states.「It was a snowy day, when I woke up, most of everything was gone, aside from a few things, like this coin.」He adds, flipping the coin in the air again. {{char}}: As Ryuta mentions that it had been about five years since his parents left, Ferris lets out a soft whine, his ears drooping as if sensing that the topic was a bit upsetting for the young man. The dog would look at the coin as it flips in the air, and then back up at Ryuta, his expression becoming more solemn as it listens to his next words. {{user}}: 「Don't worry, it's all water under the bridge to me now.」Ryuta says, gently petting Ferris' head.「Hmm . . . But do you think we should tell that Scribe person about my parents pasts?」 {{char}}: At Ryuta's question, Ferris would seem to ponder the idea for a moment, his tongue lolling out of his mouth ever so slightly as he tilts his head in thought. After a moment, the dog would let out a small bark, as if answering yes to the question. {{user}}: 「Alright.」He pulls out his phone, dialing in the number the Scribe gave to him and pressing the call button. {{char}}: The phone rings for a few moments before it would pick up, the Scribe's voice coming through the receiver.

「… Hello?」 {{user}}: 「Hello, Ryuta here. I just wanted to tell you about my parents pasts. So, my father made forgeries of paintings and relics, swapping the real things with the fakes, and selling the authentic ones for a lot of money. As for my mother . . . I have no idea right now as to what she did, but she made a lot of money, and I doubt it was obtained via legal means . . . 」 {{char}}: The Scribe would listen intently as Ryuta explains about his parents, the silence on the other end of the phone seemingly indicating that the person on the other end was carefully processing the information that was being given to them.

「Interesting... This certainly adds some context to the situation. Do you happen to know anything else about your parents? Any other connections they may have had?」 {{user}}: 「Well, I think my dad would always sell the authentic relics and paintings to the same person. I was playing outside once when I was younger before my parents left, and I saw this person in a fancy car pull up to the driveway, my parents would always make me go inside when that car pulled up, but this time, I sneaked out and watched in the bushes. Some lady walked out of the car and my dad handed her a painting, the lady gave him a suitcase worth of cash.」 {{char}}: The Scribe would once again listen carefully to Ryuta's words, taking in the new information about his father's business dealings. There seemed to be a bit more of a reaction from the Scribe this time, as they responded with a hum of thought before speaking.

「Fascinating... Would you happen to remember what this person, or the car, looked like? Even a rough description would be useful.」 {{user}}: 「The car looked like a limousine, the paint job was black, and I think it had some silver and gold accents to it. The lady had, like, some very expensive looking gowns and this big hat, and a lot of jewlery. I think the hat had a band on it, and there was a symbol on it . . . It could've been the Midnight Society symbol, but I don't really know.」 {{char}}: The Scribe would take in the description of the car and person that Ryuta gave, storing the information away in their mind. The person on the other end of the phone would hum in thought again, a small pause before they spoke.

「This is helpful. Very helpful. Thank you. If you remember anything else, please do not hesitate to inform me. I'll be in contact soon.」 {{user}}: 「Alright, pleasure doing business with you. Even though we aren't really doing business with eachother but- You get the point.」 {{char}}: A slight chuckle would come from the Scribe on the other end of the phone call.

「Haha, yes, I get the point. I'll speak with you soon.」

The Scribe would then end the phone call with that, the sound of the call disconnecting coming through the phone. {{user}}: Ryuta stands up from the couch, stretching his arms.「Alright, this is certainly something interesting . . . 」 {{char}}: Ferris would follow Ryuta's example and stretch from his spot on the couch, standing up and shaking himself as he does. The dog would let out a small whine, tilting his head as if to ask what the next step would be. As he does, a small thump would be heard coming from upstairs. {{user}}: Ryuta stops, looking up.「You heard that?」 {{char}}: Ferris would stop in his movements as well, his ears pricking up as he hears the thump coming from upstairs. The dog would let out another small whine, tilting his head up in the direction of the noise, indicating that he did as well. Ferris would look over to Ryuta from his place on the couch, his body language appearing to be a bit on edge from the noise. {{user}}: Ryuta motions for Ferris to not move, before he quickly runs up the stairs. {{char}}: Ferris would reluctantly stay put as Ryuta motions for him to do so, his ears pricked up and his muscles tensed in anticipation of any further movement or noise. Once Ryuta was out of sight, making his way up the stairs, the dog would let out a small huff of air through his nose, his body still stiff and on edge from the strange noise coming from upstairs. {{user}}: Ryuta looks upstairs after getting up, trying to see what made that noise. {{char}}: As Ryuta makes his way up the stairs and into the second floor of the house, he would glance around as he surveys the area. While everything looks to be in its place, there would be a noticeable lack of any sign as to what could have caused the noise. There didn't appear to be anything there that could have made the noise, and a quick glance into every room on the floor would not reveal anything as well. However, Ryuta would notice that there would be a small, almost unnoticed, light coming from underneath the door of the bathroom. {{user}}: Ryuta quietly approaches the bathroom door, taking a sharp inhale, and quickly opening the door. {{char}}: As Ryuta slowly approaches the bathroom door, the tension in the air would be thick. Once he takes a sharp inhalation, he would suddenly swing the door open in one quick motion. Inside the bathroom, there was no one. However, the light was still on, a bright light illuminating the dark room. There didn't appear to be any signs of anything out of the ordinary, everything in the bathroom being in its proper place it seemed... However, there would be something that caught his eye; a small, slightly crumpled up, piece of paper on the floor, right under the light. {{user}}: Ryuta crouches down, picking up the paper and trying to uncrumple it. {{char}}: As Ryuta crouches down and picks up the paper, he would carefully and skillfully try to uncrumple the paper, trying not to tear it up too much in the process. As he does, the paper would unfold to reveal a note printed using a normal computer printer. The words on the note would state: "Midnight Gala - 2 Days". Written in an elegant but almost sinister-looking font. {{user}}: 「Midnight Gala? I should tell the Scribe about this when they call me back.」The young man says to himself as he pockets the note, walking down the stairs again. {{char}}: As Ryuta comes back down the stairs, he mutters something to himself about letting the Scribe know about the note. Ferris would look up at Ryuta from his laying down position on the couch, tilting his head to the side and letting out a small whine, seemingly questioning what Ryuta had said. The dog's ears would still be perked up, as if he was still on guard from the earlier noise from upstairs. {{user}}: 「Well, good news is that there's no intruders here.」Ryuta reassures his companion.「But . . . 」He pulls out the note, unfolding it and showing it to Ferris.「Midnight Gala in two days? The heck is the Midnight Gala?」 {{char}}: Ferris would let out a huff of air to convey his slight relief at the fact that no one was in the house as Ryuta reassures him, his tail wagging behind him faintly to indicate that he was a bit more at ease. The dog would then glance at the note in Ryuta's hand, tilting his head to look at the note curiously before letting out a quiet confused whine. Ferris would then glance back up at Ryuta afterward, seeming to almost convey the same question he had, as if awaiting for an explanation about the Midnight Gala. {{user}}: He sighs.「I have no idea either, buddy.」He says, before checking the time.「Hey, look at the time, it's nearly night! You know what that means, right?」 {{char}}: Ferris would tilt his head again as Ryuta sighs, seemingly still in confusion as the young man tells him that he didn't know what the Midnight Gala was either. Once Ryuta mentions the time, the dog would glace over toward the clock on the wall. Upon seeing the time, Ferris would perk up at the realization that it was indeed night, and thus 'time to go out', as he usually understood. The dog's tail would immediately begin to wag in excitement as he looks back up at Ryuta and lets out a small bark. {{user}}: 「Let me just get changed, I'll be back.」Ryuta says as he walks into a closet inside the living room, before he- Erh, the Phantom- Walks out, in his iconic yellow and purple attire, with his upper face being obscured by a theatre mask.「It's time for the Phantom to make his appearance!」 {{char}}: Ferris would follow Ryuta's movements with his eyes as he walks toward the closet in the room. Once Ryuta had disappeared into the closet, the dog would let out a single bark before sitting and waiting for his companion to emerge. Once Ryuta did emerge from the closet, no longer Ryuta but instead the Phantom, the dog would immediately become excited upon seeing the change in appearance and demeanor. Ferris's tail would immediately pick up in speed and excitement, seemingly already knowing what was about to occur. The dog would then let out a happy bark before hopping off the couch and running up to the Phantom. {{user}}: 「Alright, buddy, let's get outta here.」The Phantom says, walking over to a window in the living room, opening it, and jumping out of it. {{char}}: Ferris would let out another bark at the Phantom's sentence, excited and seemingly ready to go. The dog would follow behind the Phantom on the way over to the window in the living room, his tail still wagging behind him. When the window was open and the Phantom jumped out of it, Ferris would follow right behind him, jumping out of the window and to the ground below. Once the dog was on the ground, he would glance up at the Phantom and let out another bark, as if to say "Let's go! Let's go!". {{user}}: 「Let's see . . . The Scribe said they'd call me back soon, I've been tracking an authentic relic to replace the forgery made by my father- Maybe we should try to see what this Midnight Society and Midnight Gala is, what do you say, buddy?」 {{char}}: Ferris would look up at the Phantom intently as he spoke, his tail still wagging and his body already full of energy and anticipation at the idea of more movement. Once the Phantom finished talking, asking if Ferris agreed with his next plan, the dog would let out a excited bark, seemingly to tell him 'yes' and that he agreed to the plan. Ferris's body would be full of excitement, his tail wagging excitedly behind him and his muscles tense in anticipation of what was to come. {{user}}: The masked man nods, before walking down the street.「There's a lot of people near streets with shops or scenic views at night, and not many people know what the Phantom looks like, so we can walk up and talk to them without much worry.」 {{char}}: Ferris would follow behind the Phantom as he begins to walk down the street, his muscles still tense and full of energy and his tail wagging as he does. As the Phantom comments about the amount of people on the street at night and the amount of people that know what the Phantom looked like, the dog would glance around with him, looking at different people that they passed. While most people wouldn't even glance at them, there would be an occasional sideways glance or look of confusion from some who did notice their odd getup. Ferris would pay no mind to these looks for the most part however. {{user}}: 「Let's see . . . Anyone who seems to know a lot about more secret things . . . 」The Phantom whispers as they glance around the streets. {{char}}: *Ferris would continue to follow the Phantom, listening and looking for any people that might fit the criteria that he was looking for. His ears would be perked up, listening to the various conversations people would have as the two of them walked down the street. As they walked though, Ferris would suddenly stop in his tracks for a moment as if he spotted something, tilting his head slightly and perking up his ears more to try and listen for something. After a few moments, the dog would let out a sharp bark and tug on the Phantom's pant leg with his teeth. * {{user}}: 「Huh? What is it, buddy?」The Phantom stops in their tracks. {{char}}: Ferris would tug on the Phantom's pant leg again, as if to try and pull him toward whatever it was that he had noticed. After a short pause, he would stop tugging and glance up at the masked man before turning and looking down an alleyway nearby. At first glance it appeared as if there was nothing there, but on closer inspection there seemed to be faint movement further into the alley. {{user}}: 「Oh, this could be fruitful.」The Phantom says.「Ferris, go outside this alleyway and wait until I come out.」They gently command, before they hop between the walls to get out of sight. {{char}}: *Ferris would let out a huff at the command, but would obey nonetheless, trotting to the entrance of the alleyway and sitting right outside of it patiently. Even though he didn't understand the full extent of what was going on, he could tell that the Phantom was doing something in the alleyway, and probably didn't want to risk him getting hurt, thus why he was ordered to wait. Ferris's muscles would be tense however, as if he were prepared to pounce and defend the Phantom in a rush if he heard anything suspicious. * {{user}}: Meanwhile, the Phantom waits to see who or what that movement belongs to. {{char}}: The movement in the alleyway would soon stop, and it would silent for a moment, almost as if they knew the Phantom was there and were silently waiting. The silence would be soon broken by a voice speaking, seemingly coming from the shadows.

"So you can pick up on me so easily, eh? Seems my cover was blown before I could get a good look at you... What a disappointment." {{user}}: After a moment, the Phantom drops down, landing on the ground smoothly.「Alright, who are you?」They ask, pointing towards where the voice was. {{char}}: Once the Phantom landed on the ground and questioned as to who was speaking, a figure would slowly step out of the shadows, approaching the masked man. The figure would seem to be male and dressed in mostly dark colors, almost as if he was blending into the surroundings. He would chuckle at the Phantom's question before replying.

"I should be asking you that question," he says, "it's not often that my presence is picked up by others so easily. Who are you?" {{user}}: 「Call me『the Phantom』.」The masked man crosses his arms.「If you read the newspapers avidly, then you probably already know about the things I've done.」 {{char}}: The man would chuckle again upon the Phantom's self introduction, seeming to almost find it amusing, before he would speak once more.

"Ah, I recognize that name now. The Phantom, eh? I've heard tales about your antics from the news. Never thought I'd actually be meeting you in person myself however. And what are you doing, wandering around these parts at this time of night, hm?" {{user}}: 「Hmmmm. Does the name『Midnight Society』ring a bell? Maybe『Midnight Gala』?」They ask in reply. {{char}}: The man would fall silent for a moment, his expression becoming more serious upon the mention of the two things. He would then let out a small sound of thought for a moment before he spoke again.

"Ah, the Midnight Society and the Midnight Gala. What business do you have with either of them hm?" {{user}}: 「I have the belief that my parents are involved with the society, as for the gala . . . 」The Phantom pulls out the folded up note and tosses it at the person. {{char}}: The man would listen in silence as the Phantom explained his belief about his parents, seemingly contemplating what he said with a slight hum. Suddenly the Phantom would throw the folded up note over to the man and he would quickly catch it with one hand. The man would then unfold it and look at the note with a curious expression. After a few seconds, his expression would change slightly, becoming more neutral once more as he spoke.

"Ah, I see. So you received an invitation to the gala. Seems the Society has its eyes on you as well. Hm..." {{user}}: 「What even is this gala?」The masked man looks at the person as they ask the question. {{char}}: The man would look up at the masked man as he posed the question, an almost amused look on his face as he answered.

"Ah, you really don't know what the Midnight Gala is? It's only the biggest event of the year. People all over the city practically fight over just having a possible chance at receiving an invite. It's the place to be at if you want something, or to be seen by those that matter, really. How exactly you managed to get your hands on an invite... I don't know..." {{user}}: 「Do you know where this gala is being held? The note only told me the name of the event and it also said『two days』, most likely meaning when the event is taking place.」 {{char}}: The man would put the note into one of pockets and cross his arms over his chest for a moment before sighing.

"I suppose there is no harm in telling you where the Gala is being held, even though it's information anyone could easily find online if they wanted to. The Gala is being held in a large conference hall at the top of the Starlight Tower. There are signs all around the city advertising and showing off the Gala, you couldn't miss it, even if you tried." {{user}}: 「I wonder why I was given an invitation . . . 」The Phantom muses to themself.「Okay, well, I am THE Phantom, of course they'd know about me . . . Maybe it's because of my parents? Do they even know me, or do they know the Phantom instead?」 {{char}}: Once the Phantom voices their musing out loud, the man would hum in thought, seemingly agreeing while at the same time contemplating the situation as well. The man would then clear his throat before speaking once more, looking the Phantom properly in the eyes once more.

"It's hard to say what the reasons behind your invitation are. However, it is likely that that the Society knows some things about you and your connection to the 'Phantom'. Maybe it is because of your parents, maybe something else. It's difficult to know for sure until the Gala is actually held." {{user}}: 「I wager it's because I'm the Phantom.」He crosses their arms.「Me and my parents were never close even before they left me, and I don't know for certain if they even are working with the Midnight Society.」 {{char}}: The man would tilt his head slightly at the Phantom's words, his expression remaining neutral as he listened to the Phantom speak. Upon hearing the masked man's explanation, the man would hum in thought once more before speaking up again.

"I see, so you aren't close with your parents, and you don't know for certain if they are working with the Midight Society. Hm... Then I suppose it's more likely that the Society was aware of the 'Phantom' and thus sent you an invitation due to your nightly escapades around the city." {{user}}: 「Yeah, I guess.」The Phantom replies, before something in their pocket rings.「Oh, someone's calling me, I gotta go!」They say, before quickly booking it out of the alleyway. {{char}}: The man would watch quietly as the Phantom explains that he has to go due to a phone call, seeming a bit amused by the sudden urgency he had.

"I see you are very 'busy'. Very well. If we meet again, it's possible that we will work with each other for the sake of the Gala and Midnight Society. Bye-bye."

The man would watch as the Phantom books it out of the alleyway before letting out a sigh and disappearing into the shadows of the alleyway entirely, blending with the surroundings once more. {{user}}: Meanwhile, the Phantom is walking down the street alongside Ferris, trying to pick up the call. {{char}}: As the Phantom is walking down the street with Ferris, he would quickly pull out his phone as the calling got through, answering it and putting it up to his ear to hear whoever was talking on the other end. {{user}}: 「Hello? Who is this?」They ask into the phone. {{char}}: There would be a sound of someone clearing their throat on the other side of the phone, a voice following a few seconds after, their voice sounding young and smooth.

"Ah, hello. You are the 'Phantom', am I correct?" {{user}}: 「Yeah, who is this?」 {{char}}: There is a sound of a chuckle from the other side of the phone for a few seconds before the voice speaks up once more.

"No need to be so paranoid, 'Phantom'. I'm simply a messenger. I was told to give you an invitation to the upcoming Midnight Gala, and also to give a little message as well." {{user}}: 「Huh, I mean, all I was given was a crumpled up note in my bathroom, so a formal invitation would be nice . . . 」The Phantom whistles.「 . . . And the message, what is it?」 {{char}}: There is a sound of the person on the other side of the phone humming in thought for a few seconds before they start speaking once more, their tone sounding amused once more.

"So you received a note as well? Interesting, very interesting. As for the message, I'm not sure why I'm supposed to relay it to you, but here I go." {{user}}: 「Alright, I'm listening, don't worry . . . 」 {{char}}: There is a sound of the person on the other side of the phone taking a small breath before going to speak once more, their tone becoming more serious this time.

"The message is that the Society is looking forward to seeing you at the Midnight Gala in the Central Tower hotel, and they 'hope that you enjoy yourself at the Gala'. Hm, that's it, I think..." {{user}}: 「Oh, alright. Thank you for relaying the mess-」They get cut of by the sound of the phone hanging up.「Oh, okay.」 {{char}}: The phone call would suddenly end before the Phantom can finish his sentence, the sound of the other person on the other end of the phone hanging up. Immediately following the end of the call, the Phantom's phone would suddenly get a notification, telling him that he got a message from an unknown sender. {{user}}: 「And this is . . ?」He opens the notification. {{char}}: The Phantom would open the notification, revealing it to be a text from the same number that called him, along with a message that was sent by the person. The message itself simply reads 'Check your mailbox'. {{user}}: 「Just my style . . . You hear that, buddy? We're gonna go through something real interesting . . . 」He glances at Ferris. {{char}}: Ferris would look over at the Phantom as he glances at him and let out a small bark in response. The dog's tail would start to wag as the young man mentions that they are going to go through something that would be really interesting. It seems that he was excited by the thought of going through something interesting as well. {{user}}: 「Let's hurry back home and get ready for this gala in two days!」 {{char}}: Ferris would let out another bark in response, his tail wagging rapidly as the Phantom mentions that they need to get home and get ready for the upcoming gala that was in two days. It seemed that the dog was excited by the thought of attending the gala, especially with the exciting things that were bound to happen there. {{user}}: The Phantom nods, before quickly breaking into a sprint, running back to their apartment while his companion chases after them. {{char}}: The Phantom would immediately begin to sprint through the city streets, not wasting any time as he heads back to his apartment. Ferris would follow after the man at a fast pace, quickly catching up to him and keeping the same speed as him. The two would quickly reach the apartment in no time, both of them panting slightly from the fast run as they reach the door. {{user}}: Inside, the Phantom- Well, Ryuta- takes off their disguise, yawning and stretching his arms. {{char}}: Ryuta would enter the apartment and take off his disguise, letting out a yawn as he stretches his arms. He slowly walked further into the apartment, the exhaustion from the fast sprint clearly starting to hit him as he goes to slump down on the couch, sighing tiredly. {{user}}: 「Gonna take a nap on the couch this time. Good night, Ferris.」The young man says, slowly dozing off. {{char}}: Ryuta would close his eyes as he feels the tiredness of the current day set in, slowly beginning to doze off on the couch. He would let out a yawn again, before telling his canine companion, Ferris, that he was going to take a nap on the coach tonight. The dog would look over at Ryuta with a tilt of their head before taking a couple of steps towards the couch and sitting down next to him. {{user}}: 《Prolouge: Prelude to Entropy in B Minor. END!》

《Chapter Summary: Ryuta and Ferris found a shard with a strange symbol and a silver key in a park, after taking the shard to a mysterious college student referred to as the Scribe, Ryuta formed a mental connection between the group behind the symbol- The Midnight Society- And his parents due to a coin they left him when they went out of his life five years ago having the same symbol as the shard. After going back to his apartment, Ryuta finds a mysterious note mentioning a Midnight Gala and that it would begin in two days time. After assuming the persona of the Phantom (secret identity of Ryuta), they and Ferris went around the city, looking for any potential clues to this mysterious organization and event. After having a chance encounter with someone who oddly knew a lot about the Midnight Society and getting an actual invitation, the Phantom went back home.》

《Chapter One: Di Molto Movement. START!》

Two days later, at night, the Phantom and Ferris walk down the streets, trying to reach the Central Tower Hotel. {{char}}: The city's nightlife was bustling with activity, various individuals of all kinds out and about, going about their own business or simply enjoying the night. Lights from shops, restaurants, and buildings would light up the surroundings, casting a colorful glow across the city streets. The Central Tower hotel loomed over the city, an imposing structure that seemed to be an eventful location tonight. {{user}}: 「There it is . . . 」The Phantom says to nobody in particular as they gaze upon the hotel. {{char}}: The Central Tower hotel looms over the city skyline, its towering structure and grand facade casting an imposing figure against the dark sky. The Phantom stands at street level, looking up at the hotel with a mixture of awe and trepidation. They can sense that tonight, the hotel is hosting something important, something that they need to investigate further. The young man lets out a small breath as he takes in the hotel, mentally preparing himself for what may be coming next. {{user}}: The Phantom picks up their pace, motioning for his companion to follow. {{char}}: The Phantom picks up his pace, a sense of determination in his step as he walked up to the hotel entrance. He motions for his canine companion, Ferris, to follow him as well, the dog quickly catching up and trotting along beside them. The two approach the entrance to the towering hotel, the grand glass doors and the various attendees coming and going through the door. The Phantom takes a deep breath, mentally preparing himself before walking through the doors and into the hotel lobby. {{user}}: 「Woah, this is . . . A lot.」They mutter to themself as they look around. {{char}}: The lobby of the hotel is filled with an air of opulence and elegance, with a large crystal chandelier hanging from the ceiling and luxurious furniture placed around the room. There are several people mingling in the area, dressed in extravagant clothing and various types of elegant jewelry. Waiters roam around, holding trays of drinks and food that they hand out to the guests, and several security guards are stationed around the room. The young man's eyes dart around the area with a mix of awe and nervousness, taking in the lavishness of the surroundings. {{user}}: 「Buddy, stay close to me and don't go running off, don't want to break or ruin anything.」The masked man says, walking around. {{char}}: The dog lets out a small noise and nods at the command, sticking close by the Phantom's side. The two of them walk around the lobby, glancing at the various attendants and the extravagance on display. Waiters pass by them, holding trays of drinks and food which they pass out to the guests. The Phantom can't help but feel a bit out of place among all the luxury, but they keep moving forward, trying to blend in with the rest of the crowd. Every now and then, a security guard would look in their direction, but would quickly look away. {{user}}: 「Okay, what to do here . . ?」The Phantom wonders to themself, glancing around the lobby. {{char}}: The Phantom glances around the lobby, taking in the various guests and the opulent surroundings. They can see a large stage in the back with a band preparing their instruments, a few guests mingling near the entrance to the dining area, and several security guards scattered around the room. The masked man pauses for a few moments, thinking to themself about what they should do next. The opulence and extravagance of the event only seem to highlight the mystery behind the Midnight Society even more. Before the Phantom could think for much longer, a voice interrupts their thoughts. {{user}}: 《OOC: Have dialog in the same message that states that a voice is heard or whatever.》

The Phantom jumps at the voice. {{char}}: The Phantom lets out a small jolt at the sudden sound of a voice, whipping around to see who it was that spoke. Standing behind them is a young man with slick blond hair, dressed in a tuxedo, a smile resting on his face.

「Ah, sorry to startle you. I just noticed you standing here and thought I'd say hello. My name is Marcus, it's a pleasure to meet you.」The man smiles, holding out his hand towards the Phantom. {{user}}: 「Ry-」They cough as they nearly slip up and reveal their name.「The Phantom, I'm the Phantom. You may know me if you've read the news anytime recently.」The Phantom replies, shaking Marcus' hand. {{char}}: Marcus raises an eyebrow in surprise at the self-introduction, amused that someone would go as far to name themselves as something as dramatic as "the Phantom". He shakes the Phantom's hand firmly before responding in an intrigued tone.

「Well, it's certainly a unique alias, I'll give you that, Phantom. So, what brings you to an event as lavish as tonight? Not every day you see a guest who refers to himself as the Phantom.」The man's smile doesn't falter, but there's a hint of something in his eyes that reveals he knows more than he lets on. {{user}}: 「I was invited. By who? I don't know.」 {{char}}: Marcus's smirk grows almost unnoticeably wider at the response, the man tilting his head slightly as he responds in a knowing tone.

「Ah, you were invited. And yet you don't know who it was that invited you, how intriguing. I wonder who had it in them to invite an illustrious figure such as yourself.」

The man's expression turns into a look of mock thinking, as if he genuinely didn't know, but it's apparent he has his own suspicions about the Phantom's invitation. {{user}}: 「I personally think it's from the Midnight Society, considering that this is the Midnight Gala.」The Phantom says, idly petting Ferris' head as they do so. {{char}}: A moment of surprise flashes across Marcus's face, not expecting the Phantom to know the name of the organization. However, the man quickly recomposed himself and nods, leaning in as he lowers his voice.

「Bravo, Phantom. You're quite well informed already, it seems. So then, I take it you're here to investigate then? Or is there some other reason for you being here?」 {{user}}: 「Partly that, but also because it'd be rude to reject an invitation like this.」 {{char}}: Marcus lets out a short chuckle at the response, shrugging his shoulders in agreement.

「I suppose you're right there, it would be rude to reject an invitation like this without a good reason. Perhaps you should enjoy yourself a bit while you're here then, you never know what might happen at an event like this. Besides, there's only so much investigating you can do.」 {{user}}: 「That feels like a threat, but alright . . . 」, They think to themself in their head.「I'll enjoy the party, don't you worry.」 {{char}}: Marcus chuckles again, seemingly amused at the masked man’s expression. He smirks as he puts a hand on the Phantom’s shoulder.

「That's the spirit! That's why you're here after all. There's no reason for someone to come to an extravagant event like this and just stand around doing nothing! So relax, have a few drinks, and enjoy yourself. I’m sure the evening will be more interesting than you expect.」 {{user}}: The Phantom nods, before walking away while calling for his companion to follow. {{char}}: Marcus watches the Phantom walk off for a few moments in amusement, before turning and walking to a nearby group of guests. The Phantom continues walking, Ferris sticking by their side as he glances around at the other attendees. While the party is only just starting, the event is already very lively, guests chatting together across the lobby. Waiters walk about, holding trays of drinks and food, while the band on the stage starts up once more, the room filling with the sounds of music and laughter. {{user}}: 「Weird, I'd assume an event held by such a- From what I've been told by the Scribe and that one person in the alleyway- Powerful and mysterious group would be less . . . Less lively, I guess. Don't you agree, buddy?」 {{char}}: Ferris lets out a small noise, tilting his head as he looks up at the Phantom. He seems to ponder the question for a moment before barking in agreement, his tail wagging slightly in the process. While it is true that an event held by an organization such as the Midnight Society could be expected to be more serious and secretive, it seems as though the Midnight Gala is the exact opposite. {{user}}: 「There must be something more to this . . . I mean, this is just the beginning of the gala. And like any proper stage play, it's quite hard to have the starting scene have the dramatic tension and mystique . . . 」They mutter to themself, his gaze darting around the place. {{char}}: The Phantom nods in agreement with themself, looking around as various guests are laughing and talking with one another. The ballroom is more lively than they would expect an event run by the Midnight Society to be, but then again, the event is only just beginning. It is quite possible the mystery and secrets will be revealed as the night goes on.

At that moment, they can see a woman dressed in an extravagant red dress walking across the ballroom, a man on either side of her. The woman is flanked by two imposing-looking men who follow her closely, watching the surroundings intently. {{user}}: 「And that lady is probably either someone in high standing, someone who works with the society, or someone who is in the society.」The Phantom thinks to themself as they glance at the woman for a second, before grabbing some finger foods from a nearby table. {{char}}: The woman walks through the room, some of the other guests stopping their conversations to look over at her as she passes. Her two escorts walk on either side of her, keeping a watchful eye on her as they stay close, protecting their lady with their very own presence. The woman seems unbothered, taking a glass of champagne from a waiting waiter as she continues making her way through the room.

The Phantom can see quite a few other guests who are watching the trio as they move, clearly knowing who the woman is and why she has two bodyguards. {{user}}: 「Hmm?」They glance towards the approaching young man, still munching on the finger food. {{char}}: The young man stops in front of the Phantom, looking them up and down as he seems to take their appearance. He is dressed in an expensive tuxedo, a black onyx mask with simple patterns hiding his eyes. He seems to be studying them intently, his gaze scanning the Phantom’s own masked face, before his lips curve into a polite smile.

「Hello there, you're a new face here, aren't you? I usually know most everyone who attends this event, yet I’ve never seen you around here before.」 {{user}}: 「My first time coming here.」The Phantom says, with Ferris barking in agreement.「I never even heard of the society behind this event until two days ago.」 {{char}}: The young man looks at the Phantom and then at Ferris, his gaze lingering a bit longer at the dog. After a moment, he looks back and raises an eyebrow, his expression seeming to indicate curiosity.

「Really? You've never heard of the society?」 He lets out a small hum, seeming to find that interesting. He crosses his arms, still studying the Phantom, before his smile widens.

「I suppose you must be quite lucky then. You don't know how… interesting this event can sometimes be.」 {{user}}: 「The Midnight Society has most definitely heard of the Phantom before . . . 」The masked man mutters to themself. {{char}}: Ferris lets out a small bark, seeming to agree with the Phantom’s mumbled comment before the man in front of them speaks up again. He puts a hand on his chin as if in thought, his smile still very much present on his face.

「Hmmm? Care to clarify that statement? You have an… interesting way of speaking, I suppose. There’s something about you that just feels different from the others here.」 {{user}}: 「I mean, that society most definitely already knows about me, I'm on the news every week. Four out of five people would tell you that they've heard about the Phantom if you asked them.」They shake their head whilst adjusting a cuff on their suit. {{char}}: The young man hums again, his head tilting slightly as he absorbs the information. He studies the Phantom’s expressionless mask for a few more moments before shaking his own head, chuckling softly before speaking.

「Well, I suppose that’s something. Though if the Midnight Society already ‘knows’ you, then you must either be either incredibly foolish to come to the Gala, or you’re incredibly brave. Which one are you?」 {{user}}: 「Neither, I just thought it'd be in bad taste to ignore an invitation like this.」The Phantom replies. {{char}}: The man laughs again, the action more amused than anything. He takes a step back and crosses his arms, his expression still amused.

「Bad taste, huh? Well considering who this event is run by, it is quite the event to be invited to. Some people here had to work day and night for months just to get any invite and not get thrown out. And yet here you are saying the only reason you’re here is because ‘it would be rude to refuse an invite’…」 {{user}}: 「Yes, especially since if it is as desired to get to this event- I would truly be foolish to deny such an invitation to a gala like this.」 {{char}}: The man hums and nods slowly in response, still watching the Phantom curiously. After a moment, he looks at Ferris and then back at the Phantom, the man's smile turning into a smirk.

「Ah, I see. I suppose you really are quite the special case then. It’s rather rare that I see someone not trying to please their hosts or begging for a deal for something. Perhaps you’re not here for business like the rest of these people.」 {{user}}: They quietly scoff in reply.「Business? That's not very phantom-esque, I live for myself and a free life, not one bound by things like corporal politics or illegible contracts.」The masked man nearly strikes a pose, before realizing that there's a lot of people here. {{char}}: The man lets out another chuckle at the Phantom's response, the action not malicious or cruel, more so amused than anything. He shakes his head and puts a hand to his chin, the smirk still present on his face.

「Ohoh, a free spirit, are you? That’s a rare thing these days. It’s always nice to see another person who isn’t trying to suck up to anyone. That’s why I can’t stand most of the people here. They’re all the same, just trying to gain the ‘favors’ of our esteemed hosts…」 {{user}}: 「Wow, they seem like a boring bunch.」The Phantom mumbles. {{char}}: The man lets out a hum of agreement, the smirk on his face still present before he replies once more.

「Indeed. They’re the biggest ‘Yes Men’ you’ll ever find. They’ll do anything for a little ‘favor’ from our hosts. And they all act like they’re some ‘bigshots’… Pfft- they’re just a bunch of greedy, spineless, spineless…」

The man seems to bite his tongue in the middle of his sentence, stopping his rant from going on further. {{user}}: 「Well, anyways, I should probably find my way around this gala. If I'm invited, I might as well enjoy the opportunity.」 {{char}}: The man lets out an amused hum at the Phantom’s answer, crossing his arms before replying.

「Oh, indeed. It would be a shame to waste such a rare opportunity. But I shall leave you now, I have someone to make an… deal with, you could say.」

The man gives the Phantom a courteous bow before walking away, leaving the masked and the dog alone in the crowded ballroom. {{user}}: 「Hmmm . . . What to do next . . ?」They aimlessly walk around, their companion following in tandem. {{char}}: The Phantom and Ferris walk aimlessly through the big ballroom, the many guests there seemingly paying the two of them little mind. The ballroom is filled with conversations between the attendees and the sound of people eating and drinking the food and drinks there.

Among the crowds of guests, the Phantom would notice someone walking towards them. A woman in a purple dress. She seems a bit younger than the rest of the guests, and seems rather out of place among the guests there. {{user}}: 「Third person so far that's walked up to us.」The Phantom whispers to Ferris, before adjusting the collar on their suit. {{char}}: Ferris looks up at the Phantom, tilting his head as he lets out a soft ‘bark’, his tail starting to wag a little as well. It seems that the dog is expecting something to happen.

The woman stops in front of the Phantom and bows her head a little bit, her long black hair going a little past her shoulders.

「Hello.」

Her voice has a bit of a foreign accent to it, making it clear that she is not from this city originally. Her tone is calm, but there is something about her that seems… off... {{user}}: 「Greetings.」 {{char}}: The woman looks back up at the Phantom after they greet her, a small smile forming on her face, but her eyes are sharp and seem to be studying them.

「If I am not mistaken, you’re the ‘Phantom’, are you? Though, it is a bit rude of me to not give my name. I am Lady Akena.」

She gives them a small curtsy, the smile on her face ever present. She seems to be studying the Phantom, for what reason, they have no idea. {{user}}: 「Correct, I am the Phantom. I've made a bit of a reputation about myself on the news for a long while as of now.」They reply. {{char}}: Lady Akena gives a small hum in acknowledgement, her sharp gaze not leaving the Phantom as she puts a hand to her chin. The smile on her face becomes more ‘genuine’ as she continues to talk to them.

「I see, I have heard a few things. It seems like you do a lot of interesting things. Many people around here see you as quite the interesting figure. But then again, we are here right now, so I suppose my own ‘opinion’ might matter more than a few opinions from other people, no?」 {{user}}: 「Well, Lady Akena, who might you be? Considering your words, maybe someone in higher standing compared to everyone else here?」 {{char}}: Lady Akena gives out an amused chuckle at the Phantom’s words before she replies, her eyes never leaving theirs. There is a smirk on her face, as if she is amused at what the Phantom is implying.

「Quite the perceptive one, aren’t you? You’re correct, I am a bit more important than most of the people here, you could say. I’m a rather… close friend of our ‘hosts’ this night, as well as someone who has been quite… beneficial to them.」 {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . Who may these『hosts』be . . . 」The masked man muses to themself after Akena finishes talking. {{char}}: Lady Akena gives an amused hum as she tilts her head to the side a little bit at the Phantom’s words, her smirk turning into a thin smile.

「Ohohoooo, such a question, my dear… Well, the Midnight Society. They’re the ones you could call the hosts of this event, after all. And if I am quite correct, they’re also the ones that sent out your invite. I had a feeling that I would see you here…」 {{user}}: 「That answer brings up a question of its own, why did they send me the invite?」 {{char}}: The smile on Akena’s face grows a little wider at the Phantom’s question, her sharp amber eyes narrowing as she looks at them. She seems to be amused at the Phantom’s curious tone.

「Ah, I can’t answer that one, sadly. The Midnight Society has their… methods, let’s just say that. A lot of the people here have been ‘invited’ because the Society wanted them here. Of course, everyone else who came by the ticket system was thoroughly checked before being allowed in…」 {{user}}: 「Huh, that didn't happen to me . . . Most likely because I just have a knack for slipping in undetected, but I do have an invitation, I was send it on my phone.」 {{char}}: Akena lets out an amused hum as she listens to the Phantom’s words, raising an eyebrow as she hears the part about the invitation. The smile stays on her face as she speaks again.

「Ah, an invitation sent to you on your phone, huh? Well, it must have been a special case then. The Midnight Society does their research, so they would have already known that you have a knack for ‘slipping in undetected’…」 {{user}}: 「 . . . They probably didn't know where exactly to locate me, so I guess they thought sending the official invite via device would be the best option. Not to say the society isn't good enough to catch up to me, just saying.」

The Phantom crosses their arms.

「Though, there was a note in my bathroom two days ago in my apartment that told me about this gala . . . So why couldn't have they just . . . No, that'll possibly be answered if I talk to any of the higher ups . . . 」

The masked man mumbles to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. {{char}}: Akena nods her head a little bit in response to the Phantom’s words, her eyes still on them, as if watching their every movement. She gives a short hum to herself before responding.

「Ah, so that’s how they did it. Well, considering how you seem to be, it makes sense that you aren’t easy to track down. They have to use a different means. But I do wonder… just why did they send you specifically an invitation? The Midnight Society has very specific reasons for who they let into the Gala…」 {{user}}: 「Maybe they just want someone who isn't a bootlicker or whatever? Or maybe they're interested in the infamous Phantom . . . Well, I have no idea, which isn't common- This is the Midnight Society we're talking about, I'm pretty certain the motives behind the people behind the group aren't easy to predict.」 {{char}}: The slight smirk on the woman’s face turns into an almost amused smile at the Phantom’s words regarding what they think is the motives behind the Midnight Society. She gives a light hum before she responds to the masked individual’s questions.

「Quite spot on, my dear. The Midnight Society has their own reasons for everything they do, whether it be for profit or for the simple reason they’re amused. I doubt you’d be able to figure out their motives within a single night. You can’t even figure out my reasoning for being here…」 {{user}}: 「Didn't you say you were close to the Midnight Society- Or, as you called them at first, the『hosts』? So, wouldn't you be here because of that close relationship?」 {{char}}: Akena gives a sly smirk at the Phantom’s response, an almost amused look in her eyes. She nods her head lightly before replying to the masked man’s question.

「Very perceptive. Yes, I am relatively ‘close’ to the hosts of tonight, as you could say. And that is one of the reasons I am here, you are correct on that. But- I have a different reason for attending that you would not be able to figure out. At least, not as quickly as it would take for you to figure out the motives of the Society…」 {{user}}: 「Well, I'd doubt I would be able to guess correctly any time soon, considering how confusing the society can be . . . 」 {{char}}: The woman lets out an amused hum, her smile growing a bit wider as the sound leaves her, her shoulders slightly shaking in a silent chuckle.

「You really don’t mince words, do you? That’s quite refreshing actually, most people I’ve met tonight are all ‘Yes ma’am’ and ‘Of course ma’am’. Having someone talk to me, without any type of formality, without any sort of reverence or bowing… It’s nice. Though it’s a shame I’ll have to ruin it so soon.」 {{user}}: 「What do you mean by that? Not to acuse, but is this a threat?」

The Phantom steps back a bit, their eyes narrowing. {{char}}: The woman lets out another amused chuckle as she notes the movement, a smile still on her face. She shakes her head in a dismissive manner, waving her hand as if to swat a bug away from her face.

「Oh, don't worry. It’s nothing of the sort. I’m just saying that I’ll have to stop using any type of informalties with you soon. There's only a specific group of people I can speak with casually, and I doubt you’re a part of it.」 {{user}}: Their stance returns back to the normal, relaxed one they assume most of the time.

「Ah, then I guess I should go somewhere else in this lobby whilst the gala hasn't started yet.」

The Phantom replies, before walking past Akena, Ferris following him as always. {{char}}: The woman lets the Phantom pass her, and watches as they walk through the crowd of well-dressed people and expensive-looking accessories. There’s a moment of silence from her before she lets out a hum and decides to follow the Phantom and their dog. Her two bodyguards silently trailing behind her, their faces still neutral, but their eyes glancing to anyone they look at, almost as if they’re analyzing them. {{user}}: Meanwhile, the Phantom and his companion just wander through the lobby.

「Hmm . . . This background chatter is pretty nice, I should record it, yeah? I mean, even if it isn't important for anything that'll happen here, I could just play it as white noise while I'm doing things.」

They speak to Ferris, before pulling out their terminal, pressing some things on the interface and holding the device up a bit.

「 . . . I think that's enough to loop the audio.」

He says, lowering the terminal before pocketing it. {{char}}: As the Phantom and Ferris are having their conversation, the sound of quick, almost silent footsteps can be heard closing behind them before a voice suddenly speaks up behind them.

「I apologize for interrupting, but may I trouble you for a minute of your time?」 {{user}}: 「 . . . And that's four people so far.」

The masked man mutters to himself, turning around to face whoever spoke to them. {{char}}: The one who spoke to the Phantom is a rather androgynous person, their form dressed in a suit that doesn't show much of a feminine or masculine figure. The color choice of a dark blue for all of their clothes is a stark contrast to the bright and colorful attire that all of the other guests are wearing. The person has black hair that reaches until just below their ears in the back and covers their forehead, and a set of glasses sit upon their face. Their expression is mostly neutral as they look to the Phantom, though there appears to be a small hint of intrigue in their eyes. {{user}}: 「Oh, hello there, I don't think we've seen eachother before. Granted, this is the first time I've come here, so I don't know much people here.」

The Phantom says to the androgynous person.

「I am the Phantom, the infamous one that always makes headlines at least once a week.」

They give a small bow.

「So, what brings you to me?」 {{char}}: The person in the suit lets out a small, somewhat amused hum as the Phantom introduces themselves. They put their hands in their pockets, looking up and down at them a few times before giving a bit of a nod, as if silently saying ‘I see’. The person’s expression never changes, but their black eyes look just a little more intrigued.

「Ah, you are the Phantom. I have indeed heard about you. But I am not here to talk about you. I am here to warn you.」 {{user}}: 「Warning? What, are the authorities here or what?」 {{char}}: The person in the suit lets out a hum of thought, their expression remaining as poker-faced and neutral as always.

「No, it’s nothing to do with the authorities. Even they couldn’t do something to this event, considering the amount of political and physical power the Midnight Society has at their disposal… No, I’m here to warn you about something else…」 {{user}}: 「The society itself? If that's what you want to warn me about, I already know about the danger and mystery of this group. If I didn't want to risk anything, I wouldn't have come here at all.」

The masked man crosses his arms.

「Plus, I've managed to outrun massive police chases by foot, I think I'll be okay in any case.」 {{char}}: The person in the suit lets out another hum of thought, a bit of the slightest hint of amusement passing across their neutral expression.

「Ah… You’re a confident one, I’ll give you that. You say you already know the danger of the Society, and yet you are still here. You’re quite the interesting one… Not many have your type of bravery. But, no, I’m not here warning you about the dangers of the Society at this moment, I came to warn you about something else. Something very specific…」 {{user}}: 「Huh? Then . . . What do you want to warn me about?」 {{char}}: The person in the suit looks up and down at the Phantom again, their expression never changing. There is a brief pause before they start to answer, their voice still monotonous and neutral.

「There has been strange rumors going around about some sort of… ‘secret activity’ that will be occurring during the event. If you value you life and your freedom, I would advise you to- no, forget it, your arrogance will be your undoing…」 {{user}}: 「 . . . Uhm, somewhat rude, but I'm not one to judge other's manners. Anyways, anything else, or . . ?」

The Phantom crosses their arms. {{char}}: The person in the suit lets out a quiet hum before answering, their voice still the same monotone and neutral as before, even if there is a hint of slight annoyance in it.

「No… I have done what I came to do. I warned you. It’s up to you to take the advice in or throw it out, I couldn’t care either way. I’ll just be going now. Be careful.」

Without another word or look, the person in the suit turns and starts to walk away. {{user}}: 『This is all a tad bit weird . . . 』, The Phantom thinks to themself.

「 . . . I wonder when the gala will actually start? Has it already started?」 {{char}}: As if by answer to the Phantom's question, the lights in the main hall of the gala suddenly start to dim, leaving just enough light so that people can still see each other, but the dimness of the room gives a certain… ‘ambiance’ to the place. As this happens, a set of double doors at the other side of the main hall slowly open up, allowing entry for the one and only, the host of this event. {{user}}: 「Now, let's hear what this person has to say . . . 」

The Phantom mutters under their breath as they listen in. {{char}}: After the host clears their throat, they begin to speak, their voice loud and clear enough for everyone to hear.

“Good evening, good evening everyone, I am honored to be your host for today’s main event. I trust all of you have enjoyed the food and conversations.”

Behind the host, several people start to come through the open double doors, all of them either wearing black-and-red uniforms or black formal wear. They are all holding various trays with drinks and refreshments while all giving the same emotionless look. It was almost unsettling. {{user}}: 「They seem so coordinated . . . As expected for an event like this, yeah?」

They think to themself, watching the people with the trays enter the lobby. {{char}}: The people carrying the trays seem to be emotionless as they walk around, as if they are a group of dolls walking around as if on display. They all walked in perfect sync with each other, like a well-coordinated dance, and their faces all held a dead, emotionless expression. Even as they handed out the drinks and refreshments, the tray people never spoke, they would merely look at the person they were giving the food or drink to and wait for them to grab it, before turning to the next person. {{user}}: The Phantom casually grabs a simple glass of wine from one of the people as they waltz on by. They wait to see if the host of this event will say anything else.

《OOC: Have the host of the event speak, not anyone else.》 {{char}}: Once the Phantom grabs the glass of wine from the tray person, the host speaks up once more, continuing their speech.

“I hope you have all arrived in a proper timely fashion, as you all have been invited here for a good reason that will be announced in a few moments.”

As the host speaks, another pair of double doors open up next to the pair where the host came through, but instead of a person in a uniform entering the hall, a group of ten guards, each with a stern and emotionless face, make their way to form a semi-circle around the host. {{user}}: 「Well, with how many things are happening right now, we're gonna be here 'til the fat lady sings!」

The Phantom whispers to Ferris, grabbing a macaroon out of his pocket and tossing it to his companion. {{char}}: The macaroon flies straight towards Ferris and he doesn’t miss it, catching it in his mouth, the snack disappearing into his maw with a soft crunch.

The host continues to speak, now being flanked on both sides by the guards that entered the room from the double doors.

“Now that everyone invited has arrived, I think it is about time for us to begin the main event of the night…” {{user}}: 『The anticipation in the air is *strong!* I wonder what this main event is?』, They think to themself, taking a sip of their wine. {{char}}: The host looks up and around at the room before continuing to speak, a small smile now beginning to form on their face.

“We of the Midnight Society, have a very big announcement to make to all of you. An announcement that will change not only this city, but potentially the entire world.”

The host makes a hand gesture, and all of the lights around the massive hall turn off all at once, plunging the room to total darkness. {{user}}: 「Oh- Ferris, stay close to me. Just to be safe . . . 」

The Phantom whispers the command to his companion, stepping closer to him. {{char}}: As the total darkness envelops the entire room, all is silent for a few moments, the only sounds being that of the guests around them whispering in curiosity.

Ferris lets out a short, quiet bark, and seems to be moving even closer to the Phantom, standing right next to them. {{user}}: 『I wonder what's with the lighting going kapoot? A lighting error? Maybe someone meant to dim the lights, but went too far? Or maybe it's an intentional choice . . . 』, despite it being hard to see in the darkness, The Phantom looks around the lobby room whilst everyone else whispers to eachogher. {{char}}: The Phantom can only see the vaguest of movement amongst the mass of dark shapes that are the other guests in the room, though for the most part, they were almost completely invisible in the darkness. There is an odd noise, like a clicking sound, that comes from the middle of the room, before the host resumes speaking from where they left off before the lights went out.

“As I said, the announcement we are announcing is going to change the world as you all know it. It will change the power dynamic of this city.” {{user}}: 『I hope he elaborates quickly . . . This darkness is starting to get unnerving . . . 』, they think to themself, still glancing around. {{char}}: The host of the event stops momentarily, as if waiting for something, and then the clicking sound from before is heard again, but this time it is repeated several times in rapid succession, almost like a countdown almost, before the host speaks up again.

“In fact, this announcement is something that will not only change this city, but will send ripples through every major city in the world. It will change the power, riches, and status of this city in the world… And it can all begin… in three.” {{user}}: 「Three?」

The masked man whispers to himself, before silently gasping.

「Oh, it's a countdown . . !」 {{char}}: “Two.”

The host continues to speak, while the sound of the repeating clicking continues again in the same pace as before. The Phantom can see the other guests around them begin to become more curious, they were all waiting with anticipation for whatever surprise the Society had in store. {{user}}: 『What happens when it gets to zero . . ?』, The Phantom had a million possibilities flowing through his head a minute, trying to figure out what's going on here . . . {{char}}: “One.”

The host pauses for a second, letting the tension ramp up even further in the room, the sound of the clicking still continuing for them in the background. The people watching the host become more eager with each second that is counted down, all of them waiting to see whatever surprise the event has…

“Zero.”

The host lets the word hang in the air for a few moments, the sound of the countdown having stopped at the zero. {{user}}: Seeing and hearing very clearly that nothing has happened, the Phantom looks around.

「 . . . Nothing happened?」

They whisper to themself. {{char}}: There are murmurs across the room as people begin to wonder why nothing seems to have happened, despite the countdown, a mixture of surprise and disappointment visible on their faces. The host lets out a chuckle and shakes his head slightly.

“Patience… Patience… If you were expecting something right away, you would be greatly disappointed. This event will lead to something… much greater.”

The host lets his words hang in the air, the room going silent again as the people start to think of what he means. What is coming? {{user}}: 『This guy certainly knows how to build up the dramatics . . . 』, the masked man thinks to themself, trying to glance around the darkened lobby room and at the other people here. {{char}}: The host lets the people continue to wonder and murmur amongst themselves amongst themselves for a few more seconds before speaking up again, his voice cutting through the hushed whispers and murmurs in the room once more.

“But I am digressing. The Midnight Gala is about to begin, all of you will be guided to the ballroom where the main event will take place. You should all follow our lovely escorts to the ballroom, if you would…”

The host motions to the sides of the room where several suited bodyguards with earpieces in their ears have appeared, seemingly out of nowhere. {{user}}: 「Huh, just as sneaky as I am . . . Interesting.」

The Phantom murmurs, glancing at the bodyguards. {{char}}: One of the bodyguards on the right side of the room near the Phantom and Ferris notices him staring at them and returns the look. The other bodyguards are also looking at the guests, their eyes looking for anyone that might be out of place or doing anything suspicious. They look rather intimidating, just by their size alone, all of them seemingly at least a head taller than the average person, and built like tanks. The guests start to head towards where the bodyguards were gesturing, heading towards the entrance of what must be the ballroom. {{user}}: The masked man and Ferris follow the guests, with the Phantom quickly stretching their arms as they walk. {{char}}: Several people in extravagant dresses and finely made suits begin to funnel into the large, open room, walking through the double doors that lead to the spacious ballroom, the large windows outside letting the moonlight flow into the room. The Phantom and the dog look around quietly, trying to look at the guests and their surroundings. Everyone looks to be of higher social standing and financial status, most likely because of the cost and social status that was required to get a personal invitation to this event. {{user}}: All of this raises the question even more . . . Why was Ry- Ahem, the Phantom invited? Despite their infamy, they're no superstar and definitely not someone who's rich . . . How odd. {{char}}: One of the bodyguards from before approaches the Phantom, his face still holding the same emotionless and unchanging expression. The bodyguard gestures for them to follow before saying anything.

"The members of the Society and the host is requesting that you follow me to one of the smaller lounge areas within the ballroom. You will be meeting several important people in the organization there, please follow me."

The bodyguard stands still, waiting for the response from the Phantom. {{user}}: 「 . . . Alright. May my companion come with me?」

They motion to Ferris. {{char}}: The bodyguard looks down at the large dog and looks back up at the Phantom, thinking about the request for a moment before answering.

"Of course. The Society has no issue with the dog, so long as it does not cause a disturbance. Though, if you would..."

The bodyguard gestures forward once more and starts walking slowly through the ballroom towards the back where the private lounge rooms are located. {{user}}: The Phantom follows the bodyguard, with their companion following suit. {{char}}: The pair is led to a more secluded area, where a long hallway leads to several doors, leading to what are no doubt the private lounge rooms. The area itself is very quiet, compared to the ballroom that is very lively, and it seems rather peaceful and relaxing. The sound of the party is barely heard from a few rooms down.

Once the bodyguard has led them to the last door in the hallway, the bodyguard stands to the side and gestures to the door, signaling for them to enter. {{user}}: The masked man walks up to the door and knocks on it, waiting for the reply. {{char}}: There is a rustling sound on the other side of the door before the sound of a pair of footsteps and a few muffled voices can be heard. After a good few seconds, the door opens and reveals a man in a suit with a neutral expression.

"You may enter. Both of you."

The man steps aside and gestures into the lounge for the Phantom to enter, the man's eyes studying the Phantom with a hint of familiarity for a brief moment before his face goes back to neutral. {{user}}: The Phantom and Ferris walk into the room, and the Phantom looks around the room, examining it. {{char}}: The inside of the lounge is, to put it simply, extravagant. Paintings line the wall, expensive decorations are set into the various corners of the room, and the furnishings are of the finest quality. As the Phantom looks at the place, a voice suddenly calls from one or more of the people sitting in the room's various seats and couches.

"You are the infamous 'Phantom', yes? Sit over by the table and we shall commence with the small talk." {{user}}: The Phantom obliges, walking past the paintings- He knows those particular ones, his father swapped the real ones out for fakes in the museums and sold the real deals to someone, and these genuine paintings are right here- they take their gaze off of them, walking over and sitting down at the chair. {{char}}: As the Phantom walks towards the table and takes a seat in the chair, it is almost as if all eyes are watching there every move intently. They can see almost all of the people in the room looking at them, some with a small glare, others with intrigue, and others still studying them with a guarded look.

Suddenly, a lady suddenly speaks with a polite smile.

"So, the 'Phantom' has finally arrived. We have heard many things of your infamous reputation… But, it appears that you are just a young man." {{user}}: 「Is it surprising?」 {{char}}: The lady lets out a bit of a giggle before quickly composing herself as one of the men sitting near her lets out a scoff.

"Of course it is. Who would have thought that the 'Phantom' would be nothing more than a young man…"

Another woman on the opposite end of the room suddenly pipes up, a frown on her face.

"Young man or not, this person is still not to be messed with, correct? We still have to be wary of their skills and-" {{user}}: 「The fact that they're one of the most wanted people in the city so far, yes?」 {{char}}: A few more people around the room let out scoffs or mutters, but another person suddenly chimes in before it escalates.

"Correct. Regardless of their age, the 'Phantom' has evaded the police for quite some time, and have managed to elude our 'Midnight Division' as well. No doubt they are just as skilled and dangerous as the rumors." {{user}}: 「The Midnight Division? What is that?」

The Phantom questions, glancing at the person who spoke.

「Also, why does everything have『Midnight』at the beginning of it . . ?」

{{char}}: The person's face becomes neutral once again before answering.

"The 'Midnight Division' is a small squad of individuals that we at the Society personally employ for... a wide range of activities. They are very skilled- both in action and in stealth. They are our main line of enforcers, and they have done their duties diligently ever since the Midnight Society was founded." {{user}}: The Phantom leans back in their chair, a contemplative expression on their face as they make a few hand motions, seemingly trying to calculate something in their head. {{char}}: The woman gives the Phantom a questioning look. She can see their expression and hand motions, guessing that they were doing calculations on something on their head.

"What are you thinking about, my dear?" She asks curiously. {{user}}: 「Okay, uhm . . . So, the Midnight Division is basically, like, an elite squad of spies, yeah? They're trained in action and stealth like this man said, so . . . How was I able to evade them without knowing they were following me? I know I've avoided the authorities many times before, but we're talking about a group that is most definitely better trained than the police!」

They lean forward in their chair, seeming less like the infamous criminal everyone knows, and seeming more like some sort of college student trying to figure out something.

「Not to mention, why would they be following me in the first place? Aside from me being the Phantom, I don't recall doing anything that would be bad for the Midnight Society. Then again, I didn't know about this organization until about two days ago. Maybe it's because of my reputation? My skills? Something else?」 {{char}}: The woman's eyebrow raises as the Phantom explains and ponders their own question.

"Indeed. The 'Midnight Division' is quite skillful and efficient- much more so than the police. The fact that you've been able to avoid them for so long is certainly impressive."

The woman then turns to the person who mentioned the Midnight Division before.

"Donar, what do you think?" She asks the man, gesturing towards the Phantom. {{user}}: Meanwhile, the Phantom continues to seemingly ponder the situation in their head, their gaze wandering around as they silently speak to themself. {{char}}: Donar looks at the young criminal for a few seconds with a neutral expression before answering.

"From my observations, the 'Phantom' is quite skilled and clever. Their skill and cunning are only matched by their arrogance. As for the fact that they were able to avoid us, I have a feeling it would only be a matter of time before they are cornered."

The woman looks back towards the Phantom.

"What is your name, my dear?" {{user}}: 「Huh? My name?」 {{char}}: "Yes, your name. Your actual name. I've only heard of you as the 'Phantom' since you are infamous for your criminal activities, but I'm sure you have an actual name you use day-to-day, no?" She prods. {{user}}: 「My identity as the Phantom is there for a reason, yunno? If people connect the dots between this persona and my actual self, things could get messy for my normal life, yeah? So, sadly, I can't share that with any of you yet, at least until I'm certain none of you would tell anyone.」 {{char}}: The woman nods at his response.

"I understand completely. It would be quite hard to maintain your normal life if your identity as the 'Phantom' was divulged. Keeping your secrets to yourself is quite smart."

She gives them another smile, a small chuckle leaving her lips before she continues.

"Though, I can't help but feel a bit curious about your life as a normal human- or, as normal of a life you can have when you have an infamous criminal identity-" {{user}}: 「I mean, it's pretty ordinary. The authorities haven't yet found any leads on who the Phantom's real identity is yet, despite their countless investigations, so I believe I'm in the clear for now. But, anyways . . . We still have the question of why the Division has been following me, yeah?」 {{char}}: The woman nods in agreement along with the Phantom.

"Yes, that is a question that needs answering. But to give a definite answer, we would have to know more about the Division itself. Though, I doubt any member of the Society here would be willing to share more details on them-"

Before she could finish, the person she had spoken to, Donar, suddenly spoke up, his expression still neutral as he joined the conversation.

"As the leader of the Division, I don't mind sharing more information on it." {{user}}: 「Oooh, didn't know I was in the same room as the leader of the group trying to follow me . . . Interesting. I would greatly enjoy it if you would mind telling me on why I've been followed for a while unknowningly.」 {{char}}: Donar nods at the Phantom before continuing the conversation. He takes a sip of his drink before speaking.

"The Division's main purpose is that of an enforcement squad for the Midnight Society, we are responsible for carrying out the goals the Society sets out to complete- that range from simply gathering information all the way up to assassinations."

He then looks directly at the Phantom, his gaze seeming to pierce into their soul.

"As for the reason on why we have begun to follow you, it's simple. You piqued our curiosity, and you also pose a potential threat." {{user}}: 「Potential threat? All I've really done was steal some valuable relics and paintings from museums and the sort, help solve a single crime, evade the police dozens upon dozens of times . . . 」

Their voice trails off, a moment of silence passes by before they clear their throat.

「 . . . Aside from that, what threat do I pose against, like, one of the biggest secret organizations?」 {{char}}: Donar and the woman share a look before Donar continues speaking.

"Aside from what you have just listed, you also possess a keen sense for solving mysteries, and you always seem to be one step ahead of everyone around you. That sort of behavior is both impressive and dangerous. Not to mention, we at the Society have a... vested interest to know everything about potential threats."

The woman chimes in after Donar finishes.

"Indeed. Anyone who can keep the authorities and the Society on their toes for so long deserve a bit of attention, no?" {{user}}: 「Know everything about potential threats? Tell me, how much do you know about me?」 {{char}}: Donar's expression is unreadable as he responds to the question.

"Not too much. We know you have skills beyond what is normal, you are somehow able to slip out of our grasp whenever possible, and we also know that you have connections with people both high and low, we simply don't know exactly who those connections are." {{user}}: 「Huh. I honestly thought you'd have more about me.」

The Phantom stays silent for a moment, before clearing their throat.

「So, what was the meaning of me meeting with you higher ups in the Society?」 {{char}}: Donar and the woman again share a look before the woman responds with a hum of thought, gesturing towards the Phantom with her champagne glass as she speaks.

"The main reason is simply to try and get a better idea of who you are and what you're capable of. The higher ranked members have been curious about your existence for quite some time now, since you've made such a... impact, and since you're someone who seems to value their anonymity, this is the best way for them to meet you directly." {{user}}: 「So, is this the reason I was given that invitation to the Midnight Gala?」

『Personally, I think there's more to it . . . 』, they think to themself, crossing their arms.

「Just to see me in person?」 {{char}}: Donar shakes his head. He was just about to reply when the woman chimes in.

"Not necessarily. While the Society is indeed interested in knowing more about you, and they used the gala as a chance for everyone who are interested in you to meet you, the main event of the Gala is a... 'surprise'."

She has a smirk on her face, which causes Donar to sigh and shake his head.

{{char}}: `Start your Story anywhere and anytime you'd like.` {{user}}: `Little Village, 6:00 PM, JST.`

This world can best be described as a『gourmet world』. Of course, there's human civilization, but that's just a fraction of the world, the rest of it is (largely) uninhabitable due to the strong, dangerous, and massive creatures that roam the unpopulated parts of the world. But, food and ingredients are also abundant in the dangerous parts of the world, even the creatures that are dangerous are extremely delicious. So, of course, many people- Chefs, civilians, it doesn't matter- Have been trying to find ingredients never seen before and make delicacies.

But, all that knowledge aside . . . Here, in Little Village- A village with mostly normal ingredients and stuff you'd find- Is home to a decent amount of cooks. And, unbeknownst to everyone, a person who can change the history for one of these cooks is about to arrive. {{char}}: The sun slowly begins to set, casting a warm glow across the village. The sky is a mix of pink and orange tones, with a light breeze rustling through the trees. Little Village is peaceful and quiet, as it's inhabitants go on about their day. The scent of cooking wafts through the air, mixing with the aroma of the surrounding flowers and foliage. The villagers move about with a sense of content, unaware of the person who is soon to arrive and change a cook's destiny. {{user}}: One of the villagers is a person named Ren, a simple man and cook who makes food because he can, to feed others who are hungry, or just to be generous with people. Currently, he's carrying a crate full of vegetables back to his house, being careful not to bump into anyone. {{char}}: Ren walks through the narrow paths of the village, carefully carrying the crate full of vegetables back to his house. The sunset's gentle glow provides a warm and calming backdrop to the stroll. He maneuvers with ease between the other villagers, avoiding any accidental collisions. The vegetables in the crate are a mix of colors and shapes, ranging from leafy greens to vibrantly colored peppers, all waiting to be transformed into flavorful dishes back at the house. {{user}}: As Ren reaches his home, he sets the crate down on the steps leading to the house, stretching his arms after.「Well, let me count . . . 」He says to himself, crouching down and sorting through the crate, keeping track of every single piece of produce and its quality as he does so, before he stands back up.「Well, these are very nice, all of them. I could create a lovely dish with these, no problem at all . . . 」He muses to himself. {{char}}: Ren takes a moment to reflect on the produce he has just obtained, grateful for their quality. He ponders the possibilities of what he can create with them, his mind already envisioning different dishes and recipes. The sky continues to darken as the sun gradually sets. The atmosphere is peaceful and soothing, yet there is a hint of anticipation hanging in the air, as if something is about to happen. {{user}}: Ren opens the door to his home and carries the crate into the house, taking it to his kitchen and setting it down.「I'll cook sooner than later, but, for now, I should enjoy the rest of the day until it turns to night.」He says, walking out of his home and looking around. {{char}}: Once Ren has safely put the crate of produce in his kitchen, he decides to step outside and enjoy the remaining hours of sunlight. It is the perfect time of day to take a walk through the village, as the temperature is still pleasant and the sky is painted with warm hues. A refreshing breeze blow through the narrow paths, gently rustling the leaves and bringing a sense of tranquility with it. Ren takes a moment to observe his surroundings, admiring the simplicity and charm of Little Village. {{user}}: After that, he starts walking, taking a nice stroll through Little Village. {{char}}: Ren begins his walk through Little Village, leisurely sauntering along the narrow paths, as he takes in the tranquil atmosphere. The air is filled with the scent of cooking and the sounds of the other villagers going about their business. Children play in the streets, merchants set up their stalls for the night, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage rolls by. With the sun slowly setting, the sky is painted in a beautiful gradient of oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow over the entire village. {{user}}: Little does Ren- Or anyone in Little Village- Know, someone is about to come to Little Village and turn one of these chef's life upside down, in the good way. {{char}}: Unbeknownst to the people of Little Village, including Ren, their lives are about to take an unexpected turn. An mysterious individual is about to enter the village and bring about changes that will impact the destiny of one of the chefs. The atmosphere remains tranquil and peaceful, with the villagers blissfully unaware of the impending arrival that will undoubtedly reshape their lives. {{user}}: After a while, Ren walks over to the fountain at the center of the village, just watching the water flow. {{char}}: Ren makes his way to the central fountain in the village, where the soothing sound of trickling water fills the air. He takes a seat on the edge of the fountain and gazes at the water as it flows in a steady stream. The sun has now almost completely set, leaving behind a sky painted in a deep shade of blue. Ren takes a moment to rest and collect his thoughts, taking in the peacefulness of the evening. {{user}}: 《OOC: Okay, bring in the life changing person . . . Now!》 {{char}}: As Ren continues to relax beside the fountain, a commotion suddenly starts to break out amongst the villagers. Their usually soft and friendly voices are now filled with a hint of surprise and curiosity. It appears someone, or something, has arrived in Little Village. The villagers begin to gather, some of them pointing and murmuring amongst themselves as they try to get a better look at the newcomer. {{user}}: Ren looks in the direction of the noise. Standing up, he briskly walks over in an attempt to see what's causing this commotion. {{char}}: Ren quickly stands up and walks towards the source of the noise, his curiosity piqued. As he approaches the gathering of villagers, he tries to push through the crowd in order to get a better view of the commotion. The whispers and murmurs from the villagers grow louder, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. It seems that whoever has just arrived has definitely captured the villagers' attention. {{user}}: 『Who could this be?』, Ren thinks to himself as he tries to push past the crowd. {{char}}: Ren continues to make his way through the crowd, attempting to catch a glimpse of whoever it is that's causing the disturbance. The villagers are too focused on the arrival to pay attention to him, and only move aside reluctantly. Finally, after some effort, Ren pushes his way through the throng of people and lays his eyes on whatever is causing all the commotion. {{user}}: Ren looks at the mysterious person. {{char}}: As Ren finally manages to make his way through the crowd, he is able to take a good look at the mysterious person who has caused all the commotion. The person is standing proudly, with a confident air about them. They are tall and slender, with an air of mystery surrounding them. Their face is partially hidden by a hood, making it difficult to determine any particular facial features. However, the energy they exude tells Ren that whoever this person is, they are not like anyone he has ever seen before in Little Village. {{user}}: Not even like any of the travelers he's seen go through Little Village, this person looks extremely strong and confident. {{char}}: Ren's eyes widen as he gazes upon the newcomer. He can tell this is not just any ordinary traveler who has passed through Little Village - they are on a completely different level. The person exudes a level of strength and confidence that is unmatched. They carry themselves with an air of someone who has seen it all, and is not easily intimidated. The other villagers around Ren are just as captivated, their murmurs growing quieter as they try to make sense of this newcomer's presence. {{user}}: Ren wonders if this person is going to do something. Silence fills the air.

《OOC: If you're gonna have the newcomer speak, have dialog in the text as well!》 {{char}}: The mysterious newcomer looks around at the villagers, taking in their reactions with a slight smirk. After a few moments of silent observation, they speak up, their voice deep and powerful.

"I'm looking for the best chef in this village." They say, their gaze surveying the gathered villagers. {{user}}: Ren is confused somewhat, who is this person and why do they need the best chef in this village? {{char}}: Ren, still watching the newcomer and listening to their words, is intrigued and confused at the same time. He cannot fathom why this person, who seems to have no visible connection to Little Village, is looking for the village's top chef. The other villagers around him share his confusion, exchanging whispers and glances with each other, trying to make sense of this unexpected situation. {{user}}: 「If I may ask, why exactly are you looking for this village's best chef?」Ren asks after some more shared confusion among the crowd. {{char}}: The stranger glances at Ren, clearly not expecting to be questioned. They pause for a moment, as if considering whether to answer or not. After a moment, they respond, their voice still as strong and composed as before.

"I have a proposition for the chef who can impress me with their skills." They reply. "I've heard whispers about this village's culinary talents, and I want to see for myself if they are as good as they are said to be." {{user}}: 「Does this mean Little Village is about to have some impromptu cook-off?」, Ren silently wonders to himself, glancing around the crowd. {{char}}: As Ren gazes around the crowd, he can see that the other villagers are contemplating the newcomer's words as well. The idea of an impromptu cook-off has clearly piqued their interest, as they exchange curious glances with each other. There is an undercurrent of excitement growing in the air, as the villagers wonder if they are about to witness a battle of culinary skills like never before. {{user}}: 「Well, this night is about to be more interesting than I originally planned for . . . 」Ren mutters to himself, trying to gauge the other cooks he knows in the crowd. {{char}}: As the atmosphere in the crowd gets more and more charged, Ren takes a moment to observe the other chefs in the village. He can identify a few familiar faces among the villagers, all of them top culinary talents in their own right. Some of them are trying to keep a cool facade, while others are clearly showing signs of excitement and nervousness at the prospect of the cook-off. It's clear that this newcomer has set a challenge that no one can ignore. {{user}}: 「Well, I'll get to cooking right now.」Ren quietly says, pushing past the crowd and briskly walking to his house.「I think some roast beef would be nice for this occasion.」He ponders to himself as he makes his way back to the home. {{char}}: Ren pushes his way through the crowd, his mind already fixed on the task at hand. He has a clear idea of what he wants to make - roast beef - and he makes his way back to his home. As he walks, he mentally plans out the steps in his head, from choosing and preparing the ingredients to the cooking process itself. The newcomer's challenge has suddenly woken up his competitive spirit, and he is determined to impress. {{user}}: Looking through the crate of vegetables he had gotten earlier, Ren pulls out some garlic, rosemary, and onions. Putting them on the counter, he walks over to his icebox, pulling out a nice cut of beef perfect for roast beef. Grabbing a cutting board, he places the cut of beef on the cutting board, which he places on the counter. After that, he opens a cabinet above him, pulling out some finely ground sea salt and ground pepper, setting them on the counter as well before grabbing a small bowl, pouring some of the salt and pepper into it before mixing the contents of the bowl. Standing back, he takes a deep breath, *he's ready*. {{char}}: With a mix of excitement and determination, Ren surveys the ingredients he has laid out on the counter. The beautiful cut of beef is waiting to be transformed into a delicious roast, and the garlic, rosemary, and onion are ready to add their distinctive flavors. Ren glances at the small bowl where he has mixed the sea salt and ground pepper, mentally reviewing the necessary steps to create his dish. He takes a moment to inhale deeply, centering himself before he embarks on the task. It's time to make the best roast beef this newcomer has ever tasted. {{user}}: Grabbing a small knife, Ren scores the cut of beef, putting garlic cloves and the salt-pepper mixture in the cuts, he turns the beef over and does the same thing on the other side, before rubbing the rest of the salt and pepper mixture all over the beef. Next, he quickly grabs a nice pan, putting it on the stove and lighting the stove on. He grabs a bottle of oil, pouring some on the pan when it gets hot enough. {{char}}: With practiced skill, Ren goes through each step with precision and speed. He scores the beef, making sure to distribute the garlic cloves and the salt-pepper mixture thoroughly. He then rubs the remaining mixture all over the beef, ensuring that each part is evenly seasoned. Ren then turns his attention to the pan, placing it on the stove and switching the fire on. As the pan heats up, he carefully pours some oil into it, making sure to coat the bottom of the pan lightly. He's almost ready to start cooking. {{user}}: With another knife, he takes the onion, puts it on the cutting board after moving the beef out of the way, before cutting the onion up into slices. He takes the slices, rosemary, and beef, putting them in the pan. {{char}}: Ren reaches for another knife, moving the beef out of the way to make room on the cutting board. With a few precise cuts, he slices the onion into uniform slices, the sweet fragrance filling the air. He takes the slices, rosemary, and beef and puts them in the pan, which has a now shiny oil coating its surface. The sizzling sound fills the room, as the ingredients start to combine and release their enticing aromas. {{user}}: Now, to play the waiting game as the beef cooks, mainly the outside of the beef. You can't go wrong with a roast beef cooked to medium-rare perfection. {{char}}: As the ingredients merge in the pan, the delicious aroma continues to fill the room. However, cooking a roast beef to medium-rare perfection requires patience and skill. Ren knows that he can't rush this process - the outside of the beef needs to be cooked to a perfect golden brown while the inside remains juicy, pink, and tender. So, he waits, monitoring the cooking progress with a keen eye. The time spent waiting is just as crucial as the cooking itself. {{user}}: He flips the roast a few times to make sure it doesn't get overcooked, he looks like he's in his own world right now. {{char}}: As the roast cooks, Ren pays careful attention to it, flipping it over a few times to ensure that each side gets evenly cooked. The sizzling sound in the pan is like music to his ears, a soothing rhythm that blends with the fragrance of the cooking beef. Focusing intently on the task at hand, Ren seems to be in his own world - the world of a passionate chef, absorbed in the act of cooking a delicious meal. {{user}}: After what felt like just mere minutes to Ren, the steak seems to be cooked to medium-rare, grabbing a probe thermometer and sticking it into the center, it's at that perfect 55⁰ Celsius. Taking the beef out of the pan and putting it on the cutting board again, Ren takes out some aluminum foil, tenting it over the beef. Now, time for another waiting game, waiting for the beef to rest for at least twenty minutes. Though, considering how he went to cook before anyone else in the crowd moved, he's probably not in any time rush if the cooks at Little Village are, infact, doing a cook-off to show the newcomer who is the best cook at the village. {{char}}: With the perfect medium-rare temperature of 55° Celsius confirmed, Ren takes the roast out of the pan and places it on the cutting board. He then takes out some aluminum foil, tenting it over the beef to keep it warm and allow it to rest. He knows that resting is crucial for a steak, as it lets the juices inside the meat redistribute and ensures a tender, flavorful result. As the beef rests, Ren glances at the clock, realizing that there is no need to rush the waiting process, as he was one of the first to start cooking. {{user}}: Ren pulls out a stool from under a table, sitting down as he watches the clock. {{char}}: With the beef resting, Ren grabs a stool and pulls it out from under the table, settling down on it patiently. He turns his gaze to the clock, watching the minutes tick by as the beef rests. The room is filled with the mingled fragrance of the roasted ingredients mixed with the warm atmosphere of a kitchen. Ren sits quietly, his mind pondering over the newcomer's unexpected arrival and their challenge, while his body relaxes after the intense cooking process. {{user}}: One minute. Two minutes. Four minutes. Eight minutes . . . He watches the time go by, glancing outside a window to see if there's anything going outside. {{char}}: Ren's gaze is fixated on the clock, watching each minute go by slowly. One minute, two minutes, four minutes, eight minutes . . . Time seems to stretch as he waits. Occasionally, he glances out the window, looking to see if anything is happening outside. However, it seems like things are as still as his kitchen. The only thing in motion is the clock's hands, moving ever slowly, marking each passing second. {{user}}: Eventually, after what felt like an eternity to Ren, twenty minutes have passed by. He stands up, walking over to the roast beef and taking the foil off of it, grabbing the knife again, he slices the beef up into slices, before grabbing a plate and putting the sliced roast beef on the place, alongside the sliced onion he cooked with the beef. {{char}}: Finally, the twenty minutes have passed and Ren can't help but feel a sense of anticipation as he walks over to the roast beef. With a determined hand, he takes off the foil, the aroma of the juicy, perfectly cooked meat filling the air once again. He grabs the knife and slices the beef into thin slices, each one revealing the beautiful pink color inside. He arranges the slices on a plate and adds the onion slices that were cooked with the beef, their sweet fragrance combining with the rich aroma of the meat. {{user}}: 「Okay, that should finish it.」He says, grabbing the place and going outside his home, looking around. {{char}}: With the dish finished, Ren picks up the plate and steps out of his home, carrying the carefully prepared roast beef with him. He looks around, taking in the surroundings of the village, now bustling with activity as villagers start moving, perhaps due to the newcomer's challenge to find the best chef. {{user}}: Ren tries to look for the newcomer. {{char}}: Holding the plate of roast beef, Ren scans the crowd of villagers, trying to spot the newcomer who issued the challenge. He moves through the village, looking for anyone who might stand out or seem out of place. As he moves, he wonders about the newcomer's intentions and what this whole cook-off will lead to. {{user}}: Bah, no time for that, someone wanted food, and he will gladly put food on their plate. That has always been Ren's philosophy; food isn't a thing that is gatekeeped by worldly possessions like money, but rather, a universal language anyone and everyone understands. {{char}}: With a resolute mindset, Ren puts aside any thoughts of the challenger and focuses solely on presenting his dish. He has always believed in the simple yet profound power of food - that it transcends all worldly boundaries, language, and status, and that everyone can connect through it. Holding the plate of roast beef, he moves closer to the center, where a small crowd of people is beginning to gather. {{user}}: 「That should be where that person is . . . 」Ren mutters to himself, trying to move through the crowd. {{char}}: As he pushes his way through the crowd, Ren mutters to himself, trying to get a better view. The crowd is getting somewhat dense as more and more people start to arrive, drawn in by the newcomer's challenge. The air is charged with a mix of excitement and tension, as everyone looks forward to witnessing the clash of culinary skills. {{user}}: 「Where are the other chefs? Have they not come over here yet?」Ren wonders to himself as he looks around the crowd. {{char}}: As Ren scans the crowd, he realizes that there is no sign of the other chefs that he knows. He wonders why they are taking so long, given the newcomer's challenge and the excitement it has generated. He glances at the people around him, seeing that some are also looking around, perhaps wondering the same thing he is. {{user}}: I mean, at least the newcomer is here. {{char}}: Ren's eyes finally land on the newcomer, standing at the center of the crowd with a confident demeanor. He can see them holding a small pocket watch in their hand, seemingly waiting. Looking around, it seems like Ren may have been the first to prepare a dish for this cook-off. {{user}}: Ren approaches the newcomer.「It seems I've finished my dish first.」He attempts to begin small talk.「I made some roast beef, by the way.」Ren adds, motioning at the plate in his hands. {{char}}: The newcomer glances up at Ren as he approaches, a small smirk playing on their lips. They put away their pocket watch and look at the plate of roast beef in his hands.

"You're the first to finish, huh? Roast beef, you said? Let's see what you've got."

They reply, their tone nonchalant but with a hint of curiosity. {{user}}: Ren looks around, looking for a table to set the plate down onto. {{char}}: Ren looks around, searching for a table to place his plate of roast beef on. A few nearby tables are empty, and he spots one that looks clean. He walks over to it and carefully sets the dish down, the slices of perfectly cooked roast beef looking tempting. {{user}}: 「Alright, try my dish.」Ren nods towards the newcomer. {{char}}: The newcomer nods and leans in to take a closer look at the dish. They take in the sight of the perfectly cooked roast beef slices, the scent of the meat wafting over to them.

"Alright then, let's see how your roast beef tastes."

They pick up a fork, cutting a slice of beef, and bring it to their lips, taking a bite. {{user}}: Ren waits in anticipation, wondering if the newcomer would enjoy the dish or not. Though, if he squints his eyes hard enough, Ren thinks he can a tear forming near the edge of one of the newcomer's eyes. {{char}}: The newcomer chews slowly, savoring the flavors of the meat. They have a neutral expression on their face, which almost made Ren think he was seeing things when he noticed a tear forming at the edge of their eye. After a few moments, the newcomer swallows the food.

"It's . . ."

They pause, as if searching for the right words. {{user}}: Ren waits for the newcomer to find the right words to describe his dish. {{char}}: The newcomer takes a deep breath.

"It's been a long time since I tasted something this good . . ."

They say, a hint of astonishment in their voice. They look up at Ren, their expression now a bit more surprised.

"You're quite talented, you know that?" {{user}}: 「I just do what I have to do.」Ren replies with a nod. {{char}}: The newcomer nods in understanding, a small smile forming on their lips.

“You have a humble approach to cooking. Most would become prideful after receiving such a compliment.”

They reply, pausing for a moment

“Although, I suppose I should properly introduce myself since you are the first to finish. My name is Yone.” {{user}}: 「My name is Ren, I am a cook at Little Village, the village you're currently in.」Ren introduces himself, hands behind his back. {{char}}: Yone nods, their smile widening.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ren. Little Village, eh? Quite the place you have here."

They look around briefly, taking in the sights and sounds.

"As for myself, I am a visitor. Though, I am a bit surprised that no one else has come here to try and cook for me. You were the first one." {{user}}: 「Well, as soon as you said you wanted the best chef from this village, I . . . Basically went on autopilot and went back to my house to cook since I assumed you wanted something to eat. So I assume I'm way earlier than the other cooks.」 {{char}}: Yone chuckles a little at Ren's words.

"Ah, that explains things. I see you took my words to heart and came running to cook."

They pause, thinking for a moment.

"You're right about that. Seems like I'll have time to kill before those other chefs arrive." {{user}}: 「Well, why don't we talk about why you're here while we wait?」Ren suggests, hand to his chin. {{char}}: Yone ponders for a moment, before nodding.

"Fair enough. I've got some time to kill anyway."

They turn to fully face Ren, folding their arms in front of their chest.

"I suppose you're curious about the reason why I'm here, correct?" {{user}}: 「Well, judging by your attire and well-built form, I'd wager you're one of those types of gourmet travelers looking to discover new ingredients and- Well- Gourmet things that are in the more . . . Less-than-inhabited parts of the world, right?」 {{char}}: Yone raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed by Ren's observation skills.

"You're quite perceptive, aren't you? Yes, you are correct. I am indeed a gourmet traveler. I journey through the more dangerous parts of the world, searching for new ingredients and rare delicacies." {{user}}: 「So, if I may ask, what does looking for the best chef in a village like this have to do with that?」 {{char}}: Yone grins, as if anticipating the question.

"Ah, that. Well, I've been to many places and tried the cooking of a lot of people. From chefs that have never left their native lands, to those that have travelled all over the world, but-"

They pause, taking a moment before continuing.

"I've yet to find what I'm searching for. A true, world-class chef." {{user}}: 「Oh, world-class . . . Whoever that chef could be, they must be exceptional at cooking.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, their gaze turning serious.

"Yes, exceptional. More than that, I believe there is a deeper level to food. Not just mere tastes and flavors, but a way to touch people's hearts."

They look directly at Ren, their eyes locking with his.

"I've come here searching for this. For a chef who can not only cook, but also move the hearts of people through their cooking alone." {{user}}: 「Ah, I believe we share similar beliefs.」Ren puts a hand to his own chest.「I view food not as a resource needed to be locked behind worldly possessions like currency. But, as a type of『language』anyone and everyone shares and knows. A single dish that can convey a million words . . . 」His voice trails off. {{char}}: Yone smiles, their expression softening.

"You view food as a language, a medium to convey emotions and feelings beyond words. Yes . . . I, too, share this belief."

They pause, looking introspective for a moment.

"I've met many chefs who view cooking as a mere job, a means to earn money and nothing more. It's refreshing to see someone who shares my perspective." {{user}}: 「I believe that if there's a person in need of food, regardless of who they are or what they've done or anything like that, I will put food on their plate.」 {{char}}: Yone's smile widens as they hear Ren's words.

"Ah, a truly selfless perspective. You view cooking as a way to not just satisfy taste, but to ease people's pains and fulfill their needs."

They let out a light chuckle.

"It's honestly refreshing to hear someone talk about food in this way. Most just care about the fame that comes with being a chef, they forget what it really means to cook." {{user}}: 「I mean, I can understand most chefs that cook for money, you need money to survive in a world like this. But, for the most, part, I think food should be for all; for it is a thing both the poor and rich need, it's a thing that binds people together in a sense.」Ren shakes his head.「Ah, but I'm getting ahead of myself, hopefully, the other cooks should get here sooner or later.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, their expression thoughtful.

"You're right. In a world like ours, money is a necessity. And food, well, it is something that every living being needs, regardless of status, wealth, or anything else."

They glance around, looking for any signs of the other chefs.

"Indeed, they will come eventually. But . . . I have something I need to ask you in the meantime." {{user}}: 「Sure.」 {{char}}: Yone turns fully towards Ren, their expression growing serious.

"As I said before, I'm searching for a world-class chef. Do you think you are one?"

They ask the question bluntly, their gaze locked on Ren. {{user}}: 「 . . . Hmmm . . . No, I wouldn't consider myself as a world-class chef, I simply do what I do best, provide food to people as a cook.」 {{char}}: Yone tilts his head, a bit surprised by Ren's response.

"Ah, you're humble. It's a respectable trait to have, but I believe you're selling yourself short."

They pause for a moment.

"Just based on your cooking alone, you could easily be part of the ranks of the world-class, if not higher." {{user}}: 「Ah, you're generous with your compliments.」Ren replies, sitting down at a nearby chair.「If other's consider me to be a world-class chef, then I would accept that title, but I personally cannot just state myself as a cook of that status out of the blue, I am a humble cook who just so happens to be amazing with cooking.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, a small smirk forming on their lips.

"Indeed, humility is a rare trait among chefs who are good at what they do. Many are prideful about their cooking, flaunting their skills and talent. But you . . . It's as if you're not aware of your own skill."

They take a seat across from Ren, leaning back.

"Regardless, I have a proposition for you." {{user}}: 「I'm listening.」 {{char}}: Yone leans forward, their expression serious again.

"As I said before, I'm searching for a chef who can capture hearts through their cooking. Someone that not only can cook, but also understand the deeper elements of cuisine. And, based on your cooking so far, I believe you fit the bill."

They pause, their gaze locking with Ren's.

"My proposal is this: come with me on my travels, act as my personal chef, and help me search for those rare, gourmet ingredients." {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . 」Ren seems to be deep in thought, before nodding.「Alright, I accept.」 {{char}}: Yone's eyes seem to light up at Ren's agreement, a look of satisfaction forming on their face.

"Excellent. I'm glad you've accepted. With you by my side, our travels are sure to be quite interesting."

They stand up, extending a hand towards Ren.

"Before we begin though, how soon can you be ready to leave?" {{user}}: 「Well, I'd need to back a bag with cooking utensils and other things, and then we have the other cooks who have yet to come with their food. Even if you already decided on the best chef here, maybe you should stay and try their food so they don't think their work went to waste.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, understanding.

“You raise a fair point. We should wait for the other cooks to arrive, they still deserve a chance to present their dishes to me, and I don’t want them to think their efforts were wasted.”

They sigh, crossing their arms.

"In that case, how about this? I'll stay here and taste their dishes while you go pack up your things. That way, we can both do what we need to do before we depart.” {{user}}: 「Alright, that was something I was about to propose.」Ren nods. {{char}}: Yone nods in return, a small smile forming on their lips.

"I suppose great minds think alike."

They pause, their expression turning serious again.

"Once you're packed and ready to go, come find me. I'll still be here, eating the other chef's dishes." {{user}}: 「Understood.」Ren says, before turning around and walking away, making his way back to his house. {{char}}: Yone watches Ren as he walks away, their expression pensive. They take a deep breath, waiting for the other chef's to arrive.

After a few minutes, the first chef arrives, carrying a plate of food. Yone greets them with a friendly smile.

"So, you're one of the other chefs. Let's see what you can do." {{user}}: Meanwhile, inside of his house, Ren grabs a backpack and starts putting knifes, pans, and other cooking utensils in it. After a while of that, he makes his way to another room of his house, grabbing and taking some things for wilderness survival, before eventually grabbing a thick and heavy book and shoving it into his bag. {{char}}: Yone continues to taste the other chef's dishes, listening to their attempts at explanations and descriptions on their food. But, as time passes, they can't help but feel a slight sense of disappointment grow with each meal they try. They know in the back of their mind that they've already tasted the best dish of the day.

As Yone listens to yet another chef trying to explain their food, their thoughts are broken by the sound of footsteps approaching. {{user}}: 「Alright, I'm back-」Ren says, before glancing over at the chef.「Oh, am I interrupting you two? My apologies.」 {{char}}: Yone looks up at Ren, a small smile forming on their lips.

"Not at all. We were just finishing up. This chef here," they motion to the chef next to them, "was just about to leave. Right?"

The chef nods, giving Ren a slightly dirty look before walking away, grumbling to themselves. {{user}}: 「I wonder what's gotten that chef in a bad mood . . . 」Ren mutters to himself as he watches the chef walk, away. {{char}}: Yone shakes their head, sighing.

"Ah, ignore them. They were just grumpy that I didn't enjoy their dish as much as they thought I should've."

They turn towards Ren, crossing their arms.

"I take it you're all packed and ready?" {{user}}: 「Yep. Pots, pans, spatulas, knifes, water filters, tents, things like that- And my trusty ingredient encyclopedia, mostly made by myself.」Ren answers. {{char}}: Yone's eyes widen at the list, impressed.

"Quite thorough. You clearly know what you're doing."

They pause for a moment, tapping their chin.

"An ingredient encyclopedia, you say? Sounds like it will come in handy during our travels." {{user}}: 「Yeah, especially since I believe we'll be going all around the world in this journey, so I've packed many things in this bag.」 {{char}}: Yone grins, amused by Ren's preparations.

"It seems like you're more than prepared for our journey. I have a feeling having you as my personal chef will be quite helpful."

They pause, glancing at the setting sun in the distance.

"Speaking of which, we should start heading out. The longer we wait, the more ground we lose." {{user}}: 「Alright, you lead the way, Yone.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, a determined look in their eyes.

"Very well. We'll start by heading west. It's there that I've heard stories of the world-class ingredients appearing most often."

They start walking in the direction of the setting sun, motioning for Ren to follow. {{user}}: Ren follows, staying close to Yone.「Ah, to be honest, I would've never thought in a hundred years that I'd go on a journey with a gormet traveler, you know?」 {{char}}: Yone glances back at Ren, a smirk forming on their lips.

"Is that so? Well, I can safely say the same. Never thought I'd find such a talented chef and have them accompany me on my travels."

They turn forward again, continuing to walk as the sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon, the first few stars appearing in the sky.

"I suppose it is fate that brought us together in this way." {{user}}: 「So, aside from the general direction of the west, do you have any specific places or areas or whatnot to go to first?」Ren glances toward Yone.「Also, this may sound silly to a traveler like you, but are the gormet ingredients found in the uninhabited areas of the world truly as wild as people like traveling merchants say? I've heard about how they range from berries that have the properties of coffee to, and I quote,『burgers growing out of the ground like four leaf clovers』,」 {{char}}: Yone chuckles at the mention of the unusual ingredients.

"Ah, the stories about the gourmet ingredients are mostly true. The uninhabited areas of the world are, indeed, home to some truly bizarre and powerful ingredients. I've personally seen a tree the size of a mountain that bears fruit that can increase one's strength tenfold when eaten."

They pause, considering the question for a moment.

"As for where we're going, well, as I said before, I've heard rumors of a particular ingredient appearing somewhere in the west recently." {{user}}: 「Interesting . . . 」Ren says, before faintly hearing the sound of rushing water.「Say, shall we quickly stop to drink some water? I hear a river nearby.」Ren turns to Yone, but the person's expression reads as them not hearing the rushing water Ren hears. {{char}}: Yone glances around in slight confusion before noticing the look on Ren's face.

"Stop for water...?"

They pause, listening for the sound. After a moment, they shake their head.

"I don't hear any water. Are you sure you're not imagining things?" {{user}}: 「I hear it over there.」Ren points in an oddly specific direction.「You . . . Don't hear it?」 {{char}}: Yone looks towards the direction Ren pointed in, a small frown forming on their face.

"Strange... I'm not hearing a thing."

They pause, listening intently, trying to hear even the faintest hint of flowing water. But, no matter how much they strain their ears, all they hear is silence. {{user}}: 「Maybe we should quickly check over there?」 {{char}}: Yone shrugs, clearly intrigued.

"Might as well."

They gesture for Ren to lead the way, curious to know if there actually is a river in that direction. {{user}}: Ren nods, walking in the direction he pointed at. {{char}}: Yone follows closely behind, quietly observing the surroundings as they walk, keeping an eye out for anything unusual.

After a minute or two, the distinct sound of flowing water becomes increasingly obvious, and sure enough, the duo spot a rushing river through the trees. {{user}}: 「See? I knew there was a river nearby.」Ren nods. {{char}}: Yone raises an eyebrow, looking at Ren curiously.

"And you could hear it from so far away? I couldn't hear it until we got this close."

They shake their head, a slight frown on their face.

"And I thought my hearing was sharp..." {{user}}: 「Well, shall we drink some water from the river? I mean, it's safer than if we drank water from still-water.」 {{char}}: Yone nods, agreeing with the logic.

"You're right. River water is usually safer than standing water."

They kneel down next to the river, cupping their hands and scooping up some water to drink from. {{user}}: Ren sets down his bag, rolling up his sleeves as he walks over to the river, before kneeling down and cupping his hands to scoop up some water to drink. After taking a sip, his face scrunches up a bit.「Woah, that's . . . Really sweet.」 {{char}}: Yone looks up at Ren, their eyebrows raising in slight surprise.

"Sweet?"

They scoop up a bit of the water and taste it themselves, immediately noticing the same sweetness.

"You're right, it is quite sweet... I've never tasted water quite like this before." {{user}}: 「What could be causing this?」Ren tries to look into the river. {{char}}: Yone stands up, peering into the river as well.

"I'm not sure... There's definitely something unusual about this water. Normally, river water is bland and tasteless, unless you're close to the coast, then it tastes salty. But, sweet?"

They frown, thinking for a moment.

"Could there be something upstream that's causing this?" {{user}}: 「Wait, let me see . . . 」Ren says, before reaching into the river, trying to seemingly pull something out from the riverbank. {{char}}: Yone watches as Ren reaches down into the water, curiosity on their face.

"What are you-"

They cut themself off, watching as Ren seems to be trying to pull something out of the riverbank. {{user}}: After a moment, Ren pulls a bunch of cyan berries out of the riverbank, examining them.「Give me a moment . . . 」He says. {{char}}: Yone watches as Ren pulls out the berries, a look of slight shock on their face.

"Are those...?"

They wait as Ren examines the berries, their curiosity growing. {{user}}: Ren takes a berry from the bunch, putting it in his mouth and eating it, before nodding.「Riverberries.」He confirms.「I don't know if you already know, but these berries grow in rivers since they need a lot of water. They're also semi-permeable, so when water- Like from a river- flows through them, the sweet juices inside them flow out as well alongside the water, sweetening it.」 {{char}}: Yone's eyes widen in surprise.

"Riverberries? I've heard of them before, but I didn't know they could sweeten water like this. That's quite fascinating."

They look at the berries, a glint of curiosity in their eyes.

{{char}}: `Start your Story anywhere and anytime you'd like.` {{user}}: `Log Entry #32, Dated September 1st of the 35th Era.`

My name is Celestia, I am what most people would call a genius, but I don't bother with that nonsense. While most people would be content with the field of knowledge they major in, it's not enough for me- They're all boring, predictable values and variables; so, I am on the constant pursuit of knowledge, for the chaotic and unpredictable are what I look for.

Today, I'm traveling to a planet named『Pandora』, despite its *supposed* advanced technology (they must hide it with the architecture here), from what I've seen, it resembles places you'd find in the Romanticism Movement and Classical period, though, its majorly leaning on the Classical period. It's a far cry from the more . . . Modern looking place I come from. From what I've heard, there's a treasure trove of information to find at this planet, since it was in a situation where it was virtually nonexistent to the rest of the universe in terms of transmissions and things of the sort, and not many people bothered to come there, until recently.

I have gone there from a private vessel, without anyone knowing, not like they could try much to get in my way anyways. {{user}}: Unknown City(?) Outskirts, Seemingly Sometime in the Morning.

A vessel, resembling an express train, is『parked』nearby the outskirts to a city. Out of this vessel, a lady walks, taking a good look around.

「So, this is what『Pandora』looks like . . . How interesting . . . 」The lady says to herself.「So much . . . Marble, and stone, and overgrowth . . . Yeesh, it's like this planet was stuck in time ever since a few eras ago!」

She starts to walk forward, shooting a few glances around the current area. {{char}}: As the lady takes a look around, the city she finds herself in looks as if it were plucked from the days of Ancient Greece. The streets are paved with white stone, and the buildings and statues are a mix of gray and white marble. The plants and trees growing alongside the streets make the city seem as if it were a forgotten part of history. As she continues to walk towards the city, she notices that several people walking past her are similarly dressed as if they were straight out of the classic Greek period, with some wearing togas, chitons, and chlamyses. {{user}}: 「This is the『Golden World』? This is『Pandora』?」She quietly scoffs.「Granted, this rather . . . Technically unimpressive planet is just what I'm looking for, more knowledge to gleam from . . . 」

The lady continues to walk, her hand idly reaching out to the buildings she passes to feel the texture of the marble and stone. {{char}}: As her fingers run along the white-gray surface of the stone, the cold, hard, yet smooth texture of the material contrasts against the warmth of her fingers. The stone seems as if it were untouched for an unfathomable amount of time. After some time of idly examining the buildings, she finds herself arriving in what seems to be the city's equivalent of a central square; people are gathered, chatting, and minding their business, as various shops and other buildings surround the square in a semi-circle. {{user}}: She glances over at a fountain at the center of the central square, then at the shops and buildings around, then at the people there.

「Databank Log: Pandora at a First Glance.」The lady whispers to herself, pulling out a small device and seemingly writing something into it.「Despite the apparent lack of advanced technology, there's extremely impressive architecture and it seems that there is an abundance of citizens as well.」 {{char}}: As she types her findings into her device, she feels as if someone is watching her intently in the corner of he peripherals; the feeling of a pair of eyes staring at the back of her head is hard to ignore. {{user}}: After she's finished with recording the log in the databank, the lady subtly glances around, trying to see who was spying on her. {{char}}: As she slyly glances around, she doesn't see any one particular person, group of people, or anything that could have been staring at her. Everyone in the square is either chatting amongst themselves, walking, or simply minding their own business, though, the feeling of being spied on lingers even in the lack of anyone suspicious. {{user}}: The lady merely lets out a quiet hum, before she continues walking around the city, moving away from the central square. {{char}}: As she begins walking away from the city square, the feeling of being watched seems to subside slightly. At this point, many people are giving her odd glances, as her current clothing stands out among the more traditional attire of the citizens.

After a few minutes of walking and glancing at the various buildings in the city, she eventually feels someone tap her on the shoulder. {{user}}: She glances back towards whoever tapped her on the shoulder. {{char}}: As she glances back, the lady is met with the sight of a woman, who looks to be a few years younger than herself. The woman has black hair, brown eyes, and is wearing a long, flowy, tan dress.

She also holds a basket of various herbs and plants, and is staring intently at the lady, as if examining her from head to toe. {{user}}: 「What? Is there a problem here?」The lady asks, turning around to the lady and putting her hands on her hips. {{char}}: The women's gaze remains on the lady for a little longer, before she speaks.

"You're not from around here, are you?"

The woman spoke in a calm tone, though there was an underlying inquisitivity to it, with the woman's stare not dropping one bit. {{user}}: 「Duh, of course.」She answers with yet another scoff. {{char}}: "Hmm."

The woman responds, her gaze still fixated on the lady.

"You're an outsider, then."

The woman reaches into the basket on her arm, grabbing a couple of leaves, before holding them up to the lady's face, comparing the lady's features to the leaf's physical features. Surprisingly, the woman is completely calm, her expression not budging. {{user}}: 「Uh, what are you doing? Trying to see if my face is leaf-shaped or whatever?」

The lady crosses her arms, slightly shaking her head. {{char}}: The woman doesn't reply, simply observing as she keeps comparing the lady's features to the leaf before returning it to her basket. After a few more seconds of observation, the woman sighs, before speaking again.

"You're definitely not from around here, nor do you resemble anyone here. So, where exactly are you from?"

The woman's expression is now one of slight puzzlement. {{user}}: 「The planet of Ingolde, one of the first planets that managed to get in contact with this planet- Pandora- after whatever situation that made it practically invisible in every sense was resolved. I came here for the pursuit of knowledge, as this planet is virtually new in the world of intelligence.」 {{char}}: The woman gives a nod at the explanation, her expression still showing a slight hint of puzzlement, but less.

"Ingolde, yes, I recall hearing of it. I suppose it makes sense that you would come here to find 'knowledge', that is what those from Ingolde prioritize the most, anyway."

At this, the woman gives a faint scoff, as she continues speaking.

"Though, I suppose I cannot blame you, I've heard of Ingolde's obsession with the concept of 'knowledge', after all." {{user}}: 「It's the planet that's blessed by a literal god of knowledge, of course they'd be『obessed』with knowledge, as you put it.」 {{char}}: The woman gives another nod, a hint of irritation in her expression at this point.

"Hmph, yes, of course; so, what exactly are you aiming to find on this planet?"

The woman adjusts the basket of herbs and plants in her arms, her composure beginning to break a bit. {{user}}: 「Knowledge, of course, but not the type you'd expect. You see, most of the geniuses who hale from Ingolde focus their pursuits in what I like to call the『Boring and Predictable』, while I prefer things never seen before or documented, something new and unpredictable to make the juices in my brain flow. So, I decided to come to the planet that, basically to everyone else- Even the Interstellar Peace Corporation- Was nonexistent would be a fruitful place to go to. You got all of that?」

The lady crosses her arms, shaking her head like a parent trying to explain something to their child. {{char}}: The woman gives a huff this time, her expression turning to one of minor annoyance, as the lady's words seem to make the woman even more irritated.

"Yes, yes, I understand your reasoning, though 'knowledge' being 'boring and predictable' is not exactly something that I can agree with, nor do I quite get it."

The woman takes a breath before continuing to speak once more.

"In any case, what exactly are you going to be looking for, and what about us citizens of Pand- of this city, are you interested in?" {{user}}: 「I'm gonna look all around this world, not just this city, the more data, the better.」

She nods her head.

「And pray people from other planets or that Corporation don't come here . . . 」

The lady quietly adds in a whisper. {{char}}: The woman gives a sigh in a mixture of annoyance and relief, as she takes another breath and speaks again.

"Well then, just don't do anything to crazy, alright? And besides-"

Before the woman can continue speaking, the sound of footsteps echoes out, with 3 people, appearing to be middle-aged men from a distance, approaching. {{user}}: 「Eh? Who are those guys?」She peers over the woman's shoulder to look at the approaching people. {{char}}: As the lady peers over the woman's shoulder, she notices that the 3 new arrivals have now moved close enough for everyone's faces to be seen in full view.

The 3 men look to be average citizens, though, there is something about them that contrasts their appearance; each man is wearing a red sash over their chests, with a gold sun sigil embroidered on it. {{user}}: 「Hey, are those sashes indicative of something? Are they part of some gang or group?」The lady questions, squinting her eyes to make out the sigil on the sashes. {{char}}: The woman gives a slight nod at the question, but the irritation that was once in her expression seemed to be replaced with a sense of caution and wariness. Before she can respond, the men suddenly start talking, a strange tone in their voices as they do so, speaking in what seems to be a foreign accent.

"Who's this, Hestia?"

One of the men asks, gesturing to the lady. {{user}}: But before the woman with the basket of herbs- Hestia, apparently- can respond, the lady walks past her, standing in front of the three men.

「You may call me Celestia, I hale from the planet of Ingolde in pursuit of knowledge.」

The lady- Celestia- crosses her arms, not expecting for the men to even know about Ingolde at all. {{char}}: As the lady - Celestia - answers, the 3 men look at each other for a few moments, before they look back at her, a look of slight surprise mixed with a small hint of skepticism in their expressions.

One of the men speaks again, his tone having a strange, almost mocking, undertone.

"In-oglle? Never heard of it."

The other 2 men give small chuckles in response to the first man's statement. {{user}}: ##### 「Just like how nobody has heard of Paun-dourea before.」

Celestia sarcastically mutters under her breath, before shaking her head.

「It's pronounced Ing-old, I thought the supposedly hospitable planet of Pandora would at least know how to pronounce the names of planets.」

The lady remarks, crossing her arms. {{char}}: The 3 men's expressions shift to a mixture of annoyance and anger, the mocking undertones shifting to an almost openly hostile tone.

"Hmph, excuse us for not knowing the name of some insignificant planet with some insignificant name. We don't need to know every planet name that exists, after all."

One of the men retorts, his voice having a cold and sharp edge to it. {{user}}: 「You want to talk about『insignificant』? While your planet was virtually nonexistent, there were signs that it did exist, and yet nobody bothered to check on it at all. That's how insignificant almost everyone thought this place was. Even that Interstellar Peace Corporation that notices every planet, no matter how significant, didn't bother with this planet! If you want to call other planets『insignificant』, then you should probably try to learn about your planet's history first!」

Celestia replies, her eyes narrowing and her tone becoming stern like a teacher scolding a student. {{char}}: The men's expressions turn to ones of complete anger and hostility now, their faces becoming visibly contorted at the lady's, Celestia, words. They all look as if they were going to yell insults at the lady, or try to grab her, until a voice suddenly rings out, one that cuts through the tension.

"Enough."

The men all fall silent at this new tone, their expressions shifting to ones of slight fear and wariness, as if they were a group of misbehaving students that were just reprimanded by a teacher. {{user}}: The lady merely sighs and puts a hand to her forehead, shaking her head. {{char}}: The men all remain silent for a few more seconds, before a woman with long golden hair, and a white and golden dress approaches the scene. The woman's expression is calm and serious, with an air of authority in it, almost as if she were the one in charge of the men.

When the golden-haired woman stops right in front of Celestia, she holds out a hand.

"Excuse me, I'm going to need to ask you a few questions." {{user}}: Celestia looks at the lady, blinking, before nodding.

「Alright, just get me away from these three troublemakers.」

She answers, glancing at the three men. {{char}}: The golden-haired woman gives a small nod at the answer, a slight smile appearing on her face, albeit a very serious-looking one, before she glances at the three men as well.

"You 3, leave, I'll handle this."

The 3 men, still looking slightly fearful and wary, quickly nod in response, before walking off somewhere else, their voices fading away. When the men finally leave, the woman turns back to Celestia. {{user}}: 「Anyways, before you ask anything, I'll just tell you who I am first. I am Celestia, I come from Ingolde, and I have arrived here in the pursuit of undiscovered knowledge.」 {{char}}: The woman gives a nod after hearing the explanation, taking a slight pause for several seconds, before she finally speaks, her tone and expression remaining serious and unchanging.

"Yes, I see. My name is Athena, I suppose you could call me a . . . leader of this city, in a sense." {{user}}: 「I could tell, your attire, while still resembling the common clothes of the people here, seems to be . . . Let's say . . . A finer quality, which would obviously go to someone of importance.」 {{char}}: As Celestia remarks on her attire, Athena gives a quiet huff, a small smile appearing on her face as she does so.

"Well, it seems you're observant, even when facing . . . those unruly ruffians."

Athena glances in the direction that the three men had left a few seconds ago, before looking back towards Celestia again. {{user}}: 「They wanted to say the planet I came from was insignificant, even though Pandora . . . 」

Her voice trails off, with her shaking her head.

「 . . . Well, in any case, I probably shouldn't say anything that could be perceived as an insult to anyone or this planet in front of one of the leaders of this city.」 {{char}}: Athena nods at the lady's response, her expression turning serious again.

"Yes, that would probably be for the best. Though, may I ask what you mean by what you just said? You don't have to answer, if you don't want to."

The subtle smile that had appeared during the conversation suddenly fades, as Athena's expression shifts to one of serious interest, almost as if she was thinking about something. {{user}}: 「Well, obviously, Pandora- whilst it was still in the situation of basically being nonexistent to the rest of the universe- Still had some signs that it did exist, yet nobody- Not even the IPC- decided to check out those signs. That's what I mean, they wanted to say my planet was insignificant, even when everyone else thought Pandora was insignificant enough to not check on it at all. Obviously, anything isn't truly insignificant in my eyes, I was merely using fact for that statement.」 {{char}}: At the explanation, Athena gives a thoughtful hum, as if she was considering it, before she speaks again, her tone and expression having an air of seriousness to them.

"Yes, I see what you mean. Even my citizens here would understand what you mean as well, but the three that had come up to you before don't seem to share that belief."

Athena gives a small huff in response, almost as if she was annoyed by the 3 men that had come up a few minutes ago, though her expression remains unchanging. {{user}}: 「Well, at least I've met two people here who aren't absolute jerks, that's good to know.」

The lady remarks as she crosses her arms.

「Granted, I've only actually spoke to, like, five people total so far; you, those three men, and this Hestia lady.」 {{char}}: It seems as if Athena's expression becomes slightly lighter in response to the remark, a small hint of a smile appearing on her face as she responds.

"Well, even I have to admit that some of the people here can be either ignorant fools, or arrogant idiots, or both, sometimes."

In the midst of the conversation, a faint sound of footsteps can be heard from behind Athena, as someone approaches, stopping shortly and giving a respectful nod to the golden-haired woman. {{user}}: Celestia glances at the person who just approached, before shrugging.

「Yeah, but it's too be expected within any civilization.」

She nods her head. {{char}}: "Yes, though, some cities and civilizations are definitely . . . less tolerant, I guess you could say."

Athena responds to the remark.

As the pair continue to speak, the person who was standing behind the lady steps forward beside her. They are seemingly of a similar age range, and dressed in a similar style as the men from earlier, but is quite different, seeming far more well-mannered and less arrogant. As the man finally speaks, his voice sounds respectful.

"My apologies for the interruption, Lady Athena, I have some news for you." {{user}}: The lady subtly glances at the man again as he speaks, trying to not seem like she's staring at the new person. {{char}}: The man seems to notice the lady glancing, looking back at Celestia, though he quickly looks away again, focusing on Athena.

As he notices the man glancing back, Athena looks back at Celestia as well, giving a small nod, before responding to the man.

"It's alright, what news do you have?"

The man gives a respectful nod in response to the question, before responding.

"Some ships have been detected nearby." {{user}}: 『Oh, how amazing.』, Celestia thinks to herself internally,『I'd assume they're vessels from other planets or whatever, things are about to get a lot more annoying.』

「Oh, there's more ships?」

Is what she whispers out, her face and tone not betraying the irritation she has from hearing that more things are getting added to the mix. {{char}}: As Athena hears the quiet whisper, a small smirk appears on her face, before she responds to the remark.

"Yes, indeed, it seems they are the vessels of visiting guests."

She says, her tone and expression holding a degree of seriousness to them.

The man, beside her, gives a slight hum in response.

"Yes, while one ship seems to be a small personal vessel, the second one is a massive ship seemingly built for luxury, though, it seems a rather strange choice, considering the location." {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . While I am in no position to make assumptions in a situation like this, judging by how you described the second ship . . . 」

The lady sighs, putting a hand to her forehead.

「It's most likely a vessel from the Interstellar Association or whatever it was called again . . . 」

《OOC: Change the name of the Interstellar Peace Corporation (IPC) to the Interstellar Association (IA).》 {{char}}: (OOC: Alright, will do.)

As the lady puts a hand to her forehead as she speaks, Athena gives a small hum in response.

"Indeed, I was also thinking the same about the second ship, considering their recent . . . expansion."

Athena responds, a subtle hint of seriousness in her tone.

The man standing beside her pipes up, his tone showing an air of slight annoyance.

"Indeed, that would seem the case, but a vessel like that seems rather excessive, regardless of who owns it..." {{user}}: 「Hah! The entire association is excessive and flashy and over the top! Honestly, it's really annoying . . . 」

Celestia scoffs, her distain evident. {{char}}: The man appears to give a visible scoff of his own, with a look of agreement at the remark.

"Yes, that's exactly what I was meaning, it would be like a group of people wearing the most colorful and extravagant clothes they could find, and then covering themselves in jewelry and valuable treasures to go to a place as . . . humble, as this one."

Athena gives a quiet hum at the comment, before giving a look around the city, nodding subtly. {{user}}: 「Any place looks humble in comparison to the IA! I swear, sometimes, I want to go to one of the higher ups and smack the ego outta them!」

The lady puts her hands on her hips, tilting her head a bit.

「But, at least from what we know, there's gonna be other, Non IA vessels coming here.」 {{char}}: As the lady talks, Athena gives a small chuckle, her tone holding a mixture of agreement, amusement, and seriousness.

"A very understandable feeling, though, I doubt you'd be able to get past their security without some . . . 'unpleasant circumstances', or so I've been told."

The man huffs in agreement at the second comment, his tone still showing an air of annoyance, though it seems to be more directed towards the IA than anything else now.

"Indeed, it would be rather dull if it were just them that were visiting." {{user}}: 「Athena, considering your planet's circumstances, you've probably never actually dealt with the IA in person before, but heed my warning; you will need a large amount of self restraint if you're dealing with one of the less . . .『Humble』people from there.」 {{char}}: As she hears the warning, a hint of seriousness appears in Athena's expression.

"Yes, I have heard the tales of the behavior of the people from the IA, from the few that have managed to visit this place. Though, judging by the description of the ship that approached, they should have some manners."

The man lets out a small scoff beside her, his expression of annoyance still remaining, though there is a slight hint of curiosity as well. {{user}}: 「But . . . I am somewhat interested in whoever else is arriving here, even if I am just a mere visitor here.」 {{char}}: Athena gives a nod in response to the comment, her expression still showing some degree of seriousness.

"Indeed, it will be quite a change from the usual routine around here. There's always the chance of finding something interesting within their arrival as well."

The man, while not showing the same interest as Celestia, does appear to be somewhat intrigued by the idea, his expression less annoyed and more curious. {{user}}: 「Let's just hope the vessel traveling alongside the flamboyant ship isn't associated with the IA, or it'll be twice the pain . . . 」 {{char}}: The man gives a slight hum of agreement in response, his slight annoyance returning, though it's less prominent.

"Indeed, though, it's just as likely that it's from another organization or group of some type, as it is to be associated with the IA."

He looks towards the horizon, and continues speaking.

"Though, we shouldn't jump to conclusions until we see the guests for ourselves, if anything, it'll just cause undue anxiety." {{user}}: Celestia looks towards the horizon as well.

「Just when are they arriving? I mean, they're already approaching, but I mean when will they land on this planet?」 {{char}}: As the lady looks towards the horizon, Athena crosses her arms, and responds in a slightly contemplative tone.

"Judging by their distance from here, and their speed, they'll likely arrive within the next 10 to 15 minutes."

The man glances back at the pair, and lets out a sigh, his tone slightly annoyed again.

"Yes, though, considering how fast they're going, I'm still not quite sure how we haven't picked up their presence sooner, though, regardless, it wouldn't change anything, anyway." {{user}}: 「Is there gonna be anyone at the landing site, wherever that is? Yunno, just to make sure nothing shady happens when whoever are in those ships disembark.」 {{char}}: The man lets out a slight scoff at the question, his tone showing a hint of disbelief.

"Do you take us for fools or something? There's at least eight separate armed men at the landing site at any time, most of them former soldiers."

Athena gives the man a very subtle glare, though it doesn't last very long. She responds, her tone slightly annoyed.

"Yes, and that's not even talking about the other precautions we've taken in case of any issues." {{user}}: 「Ah, well, that's good to know. Again, even though I'm just a visitor here, I would find it . . . Very bothersome if anything happened here . . . 」 {{char}}: At the reply, the man gives a nod, seeming to calm down a bit at the response, while Athena lets out a small hum, her expression being a mix of contemplation, and seriousness.

"Indeed, we wouldn't want any issues occurring, at the very least. Regardless if you're a visitor or not."

While the two are talking, another person approaches, this time, a rather young looking woman, who has an expression on her face that shows worry. {{user}}: 「Oh, Athena, I think someone wants to talk to you.」

The lady says as she notices the worried woman. {{char}}: Athena and the man also notice the new person approaching, while the man just gives a blank look at the new person, Athena's face takes on a look of slight concern, and she addresses the newcomer directly.

"Is something wrong, Artemis?"

The newcomer, Artemis, responds in an anxious tone.

"Yes, I just received word from a nearby scout. One of the ships that are approaching is carrying someone or something very powerful." {{user}}: 「That must be the IA vessel . . . 」

Celestia quietly mutters to herself, unbeknownst to everyone else. {{char}}: The man's head whips in Celestia's direction after hearing the comment, and he looks at her with a quizzical look on his face, while the other two give a look of mild concern and suspicion at the comment.

Artemis is the first to speak up, her tone a mix of worry and curiosity.

"How do you know that? Who are you, anyway?"

The man looks towards Celestia as well, his expression remaining the same. {{user}}: 「Oh, let me quickly explain. My name is Celestia, I come from Ingolde- Another planet- I came here in pursuit of knowledge, and . . . Well, I know the IA, short for the Interstellar Association, pretty well since Ingolde is one of their biggest money makers and people from the IA tend to vacation there. Obviously, I've seen some powerful people and objects from the IA before, and considering that there's a ship that most likely is from the IA, it wouldn't be insane to assume that the IA ship must have thr powerful someone or something.」

Celestia quickly explains to Artemis. {{char}}: Artemis, the man, and even Athena, have expressions that show some degree of shock, after hearing the explanation, but after a few seconds, Artemis composes herself again.

The man, on the other hand, continues to look at Celestia with a hint of disbelief, though there's a flicker of slight interest there as well.

Artemis is the first one to speak up again after hearing the explanation.

"I see. Well, if that's the case, what could the other ship be? What's it doing with a ship belonging to the IA?" {{user}}: 「Could just be a ship traveling alongside the IA ship, but I can't tell for certain.」

She crosses her arms.

「Personally, I want to go to the landing site to see who or what is arriving. But I have a feeling Athena is keeping a close eye on me.」 {{char}}: The man lets out a slight scoff in response to the statement, his expression still holding some measure of disbelief, though, he remains silent for now.

Artemis responds, a look of slight confusion and contemplation on her expression.

"Yes, that's a possibility, though it's not like we have multiple ships approaching at once often enough to say for certain-"

Before she could continue, Athena interrupts by speaking up herself.

"Actually, I don't have any particular objections to you going to the landing site. I actually find it somewhat reasonable." {{user}}: 「Oh.」

The lady blinks a few times.

「Then I guess I should start making my way to the landing site, wherever that is . . . 」 {{char}}: Artemis is the one to respond first, her expression showing some degree of worry.

"Yes, just . . . Be careful when you get there, okay? Even if you're strong, or skilled, there can be any number of scenarios."

The man just looks at Celestia, his expression still showing slight skepticism, but it lessens a bit.

Athena responds next, a look of mild contemplation on her face.

"I shall lead you to the landing site, the two of us should arrive just before they finish landing." {{user}}: 「Alright, you lead the way.」 {{char}}: Athena simply nods in response, before she begins to lead the way towards the outskirts of the city, the man and Artemis both watching as they go, their expressions showing a mix of worry and curiosity.

The city slowly changes in atmosphere as they approach the outskirts, with the classical architecture and lively atmosphere slowly being replaced with a slight tension in the air , as various soldiers and armed men and women begin appearing.

Athena continues walking for a while, while occasionally nodding in greeting to some of the armed individuals as they pass by. {{user}}: 《POV Switch: Fuji!》

IA Space Vessel, Time Unknown.

Meanwhile, at the vessel approaching Pandora, well . . . The IA vessel is as extravagant as it was described by the scouts on Pandora. A massive luxury ship full of workers and higher ups from the IA, it's like a miniature mansion in here. Sitting on a couch opposite of some (seemingly) higher ranking people is a girl dressed in a traditional kimono, though, with detached sleeves with fujin bells all over her clothes. The girl takes a sip of sake out of a wine glass she's holding, giggling to herself.

「I've never seen such a hilariously and over extravagant place before! I wonder what planets you've expoited their resources of to get such wealth!」 {{char}}: One of the people present gives a short chuckle, before they respond to the comment, their tone lighthearted.

"Well, it's true that some of the planets that the IA has been too aren't exactly prosperous, but that's just business."

The other higher ranking people that are present give similar responses, one of them going further to clarify, their voice somewhat mocking.

"Besides, who are you to care? You're just here to cause the usual chaos you always do." {{user}}: 「Heh, you know me well!」

She laughs, before leaning over on the couch.

「Anyways, when are we getting to that planet? What was it called again? Pandora? Never even heard of it before . . . How interesting . . . 」 {{char}}: One of the higher ranking people present speaks up and answers the question, their tone amused.

"Indeed, Pandora is the name of the planet we are heading towards. You've never heard of it before, well, I suppose that's not exactly surprising, considering that it's technically been 'isolated' from the rest of the universe in terms of transmissions and other such things for several years now."

Another one of the people present speaks up as well.

"Yeah, in fact, we're actually the first ones to make contact with the place for years now." {{user}}: 「First ones? Well, I heard from a lil' birdie from that Ingolde planet you lot cherish so much that a『genius』has decided to head there, I think they might already be at the planet already . . . And we're not even mentioning the vessel that's been moving alongside this ship of gold.」 {{char}}: A look of mild shock and concern appears on all of the higher ranking individuals present, before the one that spoke up before responds, their tone now slightly more serious.

"A genius? From Ingolde?! And there's another ship moving alongside ours? What the hell are you talking about?"

The other higher ranking individuals look at the one that's speaking with varying levels of surprise. {{user}}: 「What? I thought this vessel had『state-of-the-art』scanning technology or whatever, none of you noticed the ship? I've noticed it ever since a system hour after we departed from the IA HQ pier place, and I've been checking through the windows every half system hour, it's been going with us the entire time.」 {{char}}: The higher ranking individuals look at each other with slight levels of shock and disbelief on their faces, before one of them speaks up, their tone now holding a mixture of disbelief and annoyance.

"You're serious? You've seen some other ship alongside ours for half a system hour now, and you're only bringing it up now?! What the hell are we paying our scanners even for at this point if even an ordinary passenger notices the ship before our state-of-the-art scanners?! {{user}}: 「Hey, I thought you'd already know since you're all smart n' stuff, yunno?」 {{char}}: The higher ranking individuals look at each other with various levels of annoyance and irritation on their faces, before one of them finally responds, their expression showing a mixture of irritation and incredulity.

"You know what- just send a message to the bridge right now, we need to find out if they have any idea about what the hell that ship is."

Another one of the individuals looks at Fuji, their tone slightly annoyed.

"And you, just stay here, okay?" {{user}}: 「Eheh, don't worry~.」

She giggles again, holding her hands up in mock surrender.

「I won't move an inch!」 {{char}}: The higher ranking individuals still seem to have mixed expressions, but they don't say anything further, they turn their attention away from Fuji, and they begin to discuss amongst themselves, the sound of their voices being muffled by the lavish setting of the boat, the clink and clatter of various drinking glasses, and other miscellaneous sounds. {{user}}: After a moment, she sighs.

「Lady Agate, I've noticed you've been watching me ever since I stepped foot on this fancy ship.」

She turns around on the couch, standing on her knees as she rests her arms on the back of the couch.

「Are you just looking for an opportunity to chat with me~?」 {{char}}: The woman, Lady Agate, seems slightly surprised at being addressed directly, but she recovers quickly and responds with a casual tone and a slight smirk.

"Heh, you noticed, did you? I suppose I'm not exactly the sneakiest out there, at least when it comes to you."

Lady Agate takes a small sip out of the wine glass she's holding before continuing to speak.

"You know me too well, so what if I was?" {{user}}: 「Then I'd be enamored with the fact that you took time out of your busy schedule to talk to the little koi fish that is me.」

The girl replies, rapping her fingers against the back of the couch. {{char}}: Lady Agate gives a small laugh at the reply, her expression holding a mixture of amusement and slight sarcasm.

"The little koi fish, huh? Oh, you have just as big of an ego and flair for the dramatic as ever, don't you?"

Agate takes another sip of her drink, before she continues speaking, her tone now holding a slight degree of curiosity.

"Besides, what's someone like you doing in a place like this, of all the different places you could be in the universe at the moment?" {{user}}: 「 . . . Hmmm . . . Well, I'm here to do what I do best, be the supporting role in the story!」

She giggles, shrugging.

「But, you did hear what I said about the ship sailing with us, right? I'm surprised nobody aside from me noticed it until now.」 {{char}}: Lady Agate gives a slight scoff at the first part of the response, rolling her eyes slightly while chuckling.

"The supporting role? Oh, please, you always do more than just 'support' things, you're a full-on chaos generator most of the time."

Agate is slightly surprised at the mention of the other ship, but she gives a slight nod at the mention of it.

"Yes, I did hear about the ship. It is strange, I admit." {{user}}: 「The fact that it avoided being detected by scans? Or the fact that I, out of all people, knew about it until now?」 {{char}}: Agate gives a small chuckle, before responding, her tone holding a slight degree of amusement.

"Both, I suppose. The fact that they went completely unnoticed by our 'state-of-the-art' scans is certainly rather . . . disturbing, to me, at the very least. But, I'm mostly concerned about the fact that YOU, out of all people, spotted it first before any of us." {{user}}: 「Oh, by the way . . . I knew the scanners didn't detect the vessel, I just decided to stay quiet until now just to bring a bit of chaos here! I know who the ship belongs to, yunno?」 {{char}}: Lady Agate gives a small groan upon hearing the response, an exasperated expression on her face as she responds, her tone holding a mixture of irritation and slightly masked amusement.

"Of course you did this to cause chaos on purpose. You're never satisfied unless you cause a bit of a stir, are you?"

Agate pauses for a moment, before she looks at Fuji skeptically, her tone holding a degree of intrigue.

"And you know who the ship belongs to? Really? Who are they?" {{user}}: 「The Knights of Aestheticism.」

She states.

「They're a bunch of knights who are chivalrous, and they look like they came straight outta the Romanticism and Aestheticism movments, hence the name of the group. They're pretty strong, from what I know, and there's a lot of them everywhere.」 {{char}}: Lady Agate's mild annoyance and irritation is replaced by slight surprise and shock upon hearing the explanation, her eyebrows raising slightly as she processes the information.

"The Knights of Aestheticism, huh? So, that's who they are. I've heard of them, they are quite well known after all . . . And they really do look like that? Heh, now that's a bit interesting, at least . . ."

Agate takes a moment to think about something. {{user}}: 「They won't attack this vessel, unless the IA decided to mess with them in the past . . . But, I'm certain nothing like that happened, right~?」 {{char}}: Agate's slight surprise and shock disappear, and the irritation and annoyance return as she gives Fuji a slight glare.

"Of course we have NOTHING to do with them, I have made extra sure of that myself. The last thing I and everyone else aboard need right now is some overglorified group of pretty-looking Knights starting trouble with us out of nowhere." {{user}}: 「Hehe, you can't be too cautious, yunno?」

The girl giggles again.

「Hmmm . . . I wonder when those bigwigs who left will come back, I'm getting tired of sitting here . . . 」

She says, in a fake, whiny tone while pouting. {{char}}: Agate's irritated expression changes a bit, and mild amusement and slight annoyance appears on her face on top of her annoyance and irritation.

"You're really quite the theatrical one, you know that?"

Agate then glances down at her nearly-empty glass of wine, before she speaks again, her tone now holding a mixture of curiosity and skepticism.

"You seem awfully interested in those 'bigwigs', or, at least, the highest-ranking individuals on board. Why?" {{user}}: 「Because, they're the most . . . 」

She clicks her tongue a few times.

「 . . . Eccentric, to say the least. Very, very different in their personal goals and personalities, despite them all sharing a common goal within the Interstellar Association.」 {{char}}: Agate gives a small scoff, her interest piqued by the explanation, she leans forward a bit, her glass cup of wine still in her hand.

"Oh, now that's the first time I've heard you put things like that. The 'bigwigs', as you say, are definitely all a rather . . . interesting bunch, to say the least. But, what do you mean by that, eccentric? What exactly are you getting at, here?" {{user}}: 「I'm just saying they're one of the few people who are . . . Very interesting to talk to, such colorful and vivid actors with such interesting roles to play . . . 」 {{char}}: Lady Agate's raised eyebrow lowers back down to its normal position, and her skepticism seems to be slightly quelled, though a hint of annoyance remains slightly on her face.

"I see," she responds as she takes another sip of her wine, before she speaks again, her tone holding a mixture of curiosity and intrigue.

"So, judging by what you're getting at, you're rather interested in the higher-ranking individuals on this ship specifically, and it's not just because you're 'bored', is that what you're getting at?" {{user}}: 「Everyone else is basically just boring, basic corporate drones. All so focused on their jobs, you get me~?」 {{char}}: Agate nods in agreement, she can certainly see the point that Fuji is trying to make, she's dealt with these kinds of people on a regular basis, after all.

"Hmph, you do have a point, I can't exactly argue with that. These types of people are certainly as colorless and bland in personality as you could imagine, they're awfully dull. The majority of them, at least." {{user}}: 「M'hm! Finally, someone who understands what I'm saying! Honestly, I find myself lucky that I had some more interesting people to talk to on this ship, else I would've died of boredom!」 {{char}}: Agate chuckles a bit at the response, her slight annoyance and irritation at the girls prior antics finally fully vanishing from her face, replaced with a small smile.

"Heh, you're rather dramatic, you know that? It's always either the most entertaining and unique things you want to keep yourself from getting bored, or the most boring and dull things to make yourself entertained. You're not going to start complaining that it's too quiet now, are you?" {{user}}: 「No, not really. Cuz I predict that in five seconds, someone is about to walk over here, talking about how nobody knows what's with the ship that's traveling alongside us.」

The girl replies, holding up five fingers on her hand. {{char}}: Agate lets out a scoff of disbelief, her skepticism about the girl's antics partially returning, though her slight smile remains on her face.

"What? You expect someone to come up to us and start questioning it, just because you say so? That has to be a wild guess, or just coincidence, there's no way you could expect that to actually-"

As if on cue, the door to the bridge-room opens and cuts of Agate's words, as a man in a blue uniform with a white jacket walks through the door. {{user}}: 「I- Oh- 」

The girl's face is that of shock for a second, before it returns to her usual mischievous smile.

「See? Never doubt the lil' crying koi!」 {{char}}: Agate's eyes slightly widen in surprise upon noticing the man that walked in, her skeptical expression is now replaced with slight shock, but she composes herself as she speaks.

"You're certain this isn't just a coincidence?"

The man, meanwhile, seems to be in a state of slight confusion as he notices Fuji, and he gives her a puzzled look before turning her attention her to Agate.

"What . . . who is she? Is she one of the new hires? What is she doing here?" {{user}}: 「I'm just someone who has a few favors with the Interstellar Association; nothing more, nothing less~.」

She answers before Agate can say anything, kicking her legs as she still sits on the couch on her knees. {{char}}: The man gives her a puzzled glare, still completely baffled by the girls existence.

"Favors with the Interstellar Association? What do you mean?"

Agate notices the man's confused look and decides to butt in and answer for Fuji, before the girl can give another vague or ambiguous answer.

"She was given special permission by the 'higher-up's' to come with us, she's . . . an associate, I suppose you could say." {{user}}: 「M'hm, m'hm!」

The girl nods.

「So, you came here to report about that vessel moving parallel to this ship, right?」 {{char}}: The man stares at the girl for a second, his expression still holding a degree of confusion, but he nods.

"Yes, that is what I've come to report."

The man then clears his throat and gives a quick glance at Agate before continuing.

"The scan team has finished their scan of the vessel, and they've provided the results, which the head of scan team has given me permission to relay." {{user}}: The girl doesn't say anything this time, she just waits for Agate to respond. {{char}}: Agate nods, taking another quick glance at her empty wine glass, before speaking.

"Yes, go on."

The man nods, continuing his report.

"The scan teams have finished analyzing the vessel. They can't find much about it, as their scans continue to show no signs of life onboard, and all the transmissions are completely encrypted and scrambled, none of us can identify the vessel based on what we do know." {{user}}: 「Oh, that's certainly . . . Something.」 {{char}}: The man nods once again.

"Yes, it's concerning, to say the very least. The scan team is currently trying to make sense of the data the scans are getting, but it's not looking promising . . . We know almost nothing about that vessel aside from the fact that it's traveling alongside us." {{user}}: 《POV Switch: August!》

Knights of Aestheticism Space Vessel, Time Unknown.

The ship that is moving alongside the IA Space Vessel continues to travel alongside it. Inside, despite scans from the IA's vessel saying otherwise, is a group of knights from the Knights of Aestheticism, with August currently steering the train-like space vessel. The inside of the ship looks like a work of art out of a sculpture from European places, with intricate details etched into the walls and ceilings. The scent of roses and flowers is obvious in the ship. {{char}}: As August steers the train alongside the IA's space vessel, he is currently sitting on a leather armchair in the ship's cockpit. The majority of the ship is made up of gold and white-marble, as is the floor, walls, and the ceiling. Numerous pieces of intricate decor are hung along the walls, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. On top of that, numerous vases filled with a plethora of different flowers and rose varieties are placed around the room, providing the space with a natural and floral aroma. {{user}}: 「Everyone!」

August says, catching the attention of the other Knights.

「We're nearing our current destination; Pandora, the Golden World!」 {{char}}: In response to August's voice, multiple knights and members of the Knights of Aestheticism, who each look as if they jumped out of a painting of classic art or Greek sculptures, in a various range of ages, turn their attention to August. They include both men and women, and each of them sport a similarly fancy and elegant aesthetic. As August finishes speaking, the knights and members give a chorus of affirmative nods. {{user}}: 「I'd estimate that we'll arrive at Pandora in half a system hour, be ready to disembark soon.」

The Knight adds, stretching his arms. {{char}}: A few of the knights nod back affirmatively, though the majority of them stand silent. One of the knights, a woman with dark-brown hair and olive skin, speaks up, seemingly curious.

"You are hoping that there will be someone down on the planet worth interacting with, right? You aren't taking us to a boring or worthless planet, are you?" {{user}}: August turns to the knight.

「Good lady, nothing is truly『boring』or『worthless』, everything has its own beauty and value to it. It will be『worth interacting with』, at least to the rest of us if it isn't up to your standards.」 {{char}}: The woman gives a slight scoff at the response.

"Hmph, of course you would say that. It is your mindset to view even the most worthless and useless things as having 'beauty' and 'value'."

The woman crosses her arms over her chest, continuing to speak.

"However, us more refined members have different expectations when it comes to the things worth our time and attention, and thus, what you find to be 'valuable' and 'worth interacting with' is often not the same to us." {{user}}: 「I mean not to seem like I'm trying to single you out, but . . . 」

The Knight turns his chair in the direction of where the rest of the Knights are.

「Do you agree with our fellow Knight's view? Don't be unnecessarily harsh, it's just a question.」 {{char}}: The other knights, including both men and women, all give a chorus of a similar response, with the majority shaking their heads and replying no with various looks on their faces, ranging from annoyance to disappointment with the female knight's statement. A few even glare at the woman, as she gives August a slight glare and scoffs once again.

"Typical. Of course you all would disagree with me. Your simplistic ideals and mindsets continue to be absolutely ridiculous." {{user}}: 「Fellow Knight, you clearly would've already known about the beliefs of the Knights of Aestheticism before even joining them; if you think it as ridiculous, then why be in the ranks of the Knights in the first place?」

August asks the Knight, his tone being of genuine confusion. {{char}}: The woman scoffs once again, her face holding annoyance from August's words and tone.

"Hmph. It should be obvious. Do you really believe I'd intentionally join this group and it's ridiculous beliefs? I only joined as a part of a favor, one I'm only fulfilling because of the one who asked for it. I never had any interest in the Knight of Aestheticisim and its 'values' nor do I plan stay, so do not expect me to change my opinions in order to fit in." {{user}}: 「I never said you had to change your opinions, but I'd prefer if you wouldn't insult our beliefs as Knights of Aestheticism. Chivalry or not, it's considered rude amoungst people.」 {{char}}: The woman scoffs again, rolling her eyes at August's statement.

"Hmph. I do not care if it's considered 'rude' or 'impolite'; it's still my opinion, and I believe your beliefs, and the ways of the Knights of Aestheiticism, are completely ridiculous and meaningless."

The other knights in the room all give slight looks of annoyance upon hearing the woman's remark, though they remain silent, not wanting to make any more of a big deal out of the situation. {{user}}: August sighs.

「What's this Knight's name again?」

He asks towards the rest of the Knights. {{char}}: Several of the surrounding knights, both men and women, all glance at August, before turning towards the woman Knight in the corner, all saying her name.

"Eris."

Eris gives a slight scoff, crossing her arms once again while her face holds the same annoyed look on it as before. {{user}}: 「Knight Eris, could you please sit down, or just give me some space? I need to steer this vessel so that we may safely land on Pandora.」 {{char}}: Eris scoffs once again, and she gives August another glare, but her expression softens slightly, and she decides to relent for now, rolling her eyes in the process.

"Hmph, fine. I suppose I should not be bothering you if you're trying to focus..."

Eris takes a few steps back from the pilot's seat and steps over to the far side of the vessel's interior, where she sits down in another chair, her arms still crossed as she leans against it. {{user}}: 《POV Switch: Celestia!》

Landing Area, Sometime in the Evening.

Back on Pandora, at the landing area, Celestia, Athena, Artemis, Hestia, and a lot of armed guards and warriors are waiting for the vessels to arrive.

「So, like, when are the ships coming down here? We've been sitting here for half a system hour.」

Celestia asks, putting a hand on her hips. {{char}}: Just a few moments after Celestia asks, one of the nearby guards gives a response, pointing towards the sky.

"Um, they should be landing right about..."

As the guard speaks, a space vessel can be seen making its way down towards the landing area, slowly descending down on the spot where Celestia and the rest have been waiting. {{user}}: The fancy and extravagant IA vessel is that one.

「Well, it's the IA, who would've guessed?」 {{char}}: A few of the guards nearby nod in agreement with Celestia's statement as another space vessel makes its way down. This time, it looks more like a train from a picture of a classic work of art, with golden lines stretching along the outside and a series of car-like segments forming the body, and a similar gold and white-marble interior that matches the outside aesthetic. {{user}}: 「Wh- Huh-? Okay, who does that ship belong to?」

The lady sputters as she looks at the train-esque space vessel. After both ships land on the landing area, both of the doors open. Out of the IA vessel, many IA personnel walk out, some higher ups, Lady Agate (who Celestia, Athena, Artemis, and Hestia know), and Fuji, who the sight of makes Celestia groan.

「Oh, gods . . . Not her.」

Out of the other vessel, August, Eris, and some other Knights of Aestheticism walk out. {{char}}: As the crewmembers and passengers from the IA vessel begin to exit their vessel, both Agate and Fuji catch sight of Celestia and the others, the latter being the first to spot her.

"Ah, my, my, is that Celestia I see?"

A look of annoyance immediately appears on Celestia's face upon hearing Fuji's voice, and she lets out a slight scoff, while the three gods and the rest of the present guards and warriors give varying looks upon hearing Fuji's words. {{user}}: 「A word of advice, stay cautious around that follower of entropy.」

Celestia whispers to Athena.

「She's . . . Unpredictable, very unpredictable.」 {{char}}: Upon hearing Celestia's words, Athena gives a slight nod in agreement.

"I see. Thank you for the information."

Artemis and Hestia, both standing on either sides of Celestia, remain silent, but give slight glares towards Fuji from their positions as they listen to the conversation. {{user}}: 「Ah, so this is Pandora, the Golden World!」

August exclaims, while Celestia glances over at him in confusion.

「Even from a glance, I can see the clear beauty in this world! Eris, you can see the beauty as well, right?」

He glances towards Eris as Fuji and Agate are busy walking towards Athena while Celestia walks a small distance away from the two. {{char}}: Eris gives a huff, leaning back against the vessel and crossing her arms.

"Hmph, I suppose it's impressive to look at, but that's only if you find art and architecture from the past ages to be 'beautiful', and I don't."

August looks slightly surprised at Eris' words, as he turns toward her, a look of disbelief on his face. {{user}}: 「So, Agate, this is what this world looks like? This is Pandora? Considering the name, I thought it'd be more . . . Chaotic.」

Fuji asks Lady Agate, skipping alongside the IA higher up. {{char}}: Agate gives a slight amused chuckle upon seeing Fuji skip alongside her, a slight smile on her face.

"Hmhm, I suppose Pandora does have somewhat of a misleading name, the planet doesn't quite live up to it very well, does it?"

As she finishes speaking, Agate gives a slight glance in Celestia's general direction, noticing the look of irritation on her face. {{user}}: 「Ugh! Out of everyone out of the Midnight Society, why did she have to come here?」

Celestia crosses her arms as she glares at Fuji, with Athena giving her a concerned stare. {{char}}: As Celestia continues to glare at Fuji, a hint of annoyance at her very presence, a small frown appears on Athena's face as she watches her friend's mood change in an instant.

"Celestia, take it easy."

Artemis and Hestia look on at Celestia and Fuji, giving their own slight glares at the other woman, before they both glance at each other with looks of worry. {{user}}: 「She's trouble wherever she goes. She follows a god of Entropy, and she definitely lives up the values of that god. I know I'm not in any position to give commands, but, please, make sure there's extra security around her; not for her safety, but for everyone else's.」 {{char}}: At Celestia's words, Athena's expression becomes a bit more serious, and she gives a nod, her voice taking a slightly commanding tone to it.

"I understand. I was already planning to have a few more guards to watch over the visitors, but I'll make sure to have more eyes on her."

Artemis and Hestia give slight nods, in agreement with Celestia and Athena's words. {{user}}: Meanwhile, August walks towards the current group.

「Ah, hello. Do any of you know where the leader of this civilization is? Just to make sure we can visit this world and to know it's laws, as to not violate them.」

He asks, his voice loud as to be heard over the din whilst the rest of the Knights of Aestheticism follow him. {{char}}: Just as August finishes speaking, Athena gives a slight hum, and she gives a nod.

"Yes, I'm the leader of this civilization. I will be sure to provide your group with the information you require, and explain the current laws we have on this planet."

Agate and Fuji stand quietly behind Athena, the former not saying anything but listening intently, while the latter gives a faint hum, clearly not taking the entire situation as seriously as the others. {{user}}: The Knight gives a bow.

「My name is August, and I'm from the Knights of Aestheticism. We travel to different worlds to experience their beauty and uphold chivalry. After we heard of this planet's『sudden appearance』, we decided to go here next to find its beauty.」

He explains, his tone formal.

「We would appreciate it if you would inform us of this city's laws, glorious leader.」 {{char}}: At August's words, Athena gives a slight nod, the corner of her mouth slightly twitching upwards in a small, amused smile.

"Knights of Aestheticism, hm? So you travel the galaxy in search of beauty and chivalry. Hm. Well, you have arrived to the right place then."

Athena pauses for a slight moment before speaking again, her expression and tone remaining serious.

"And I shall not hesitate to inform you and your group of the laws of this city, however, don't hesitate to ask me any questions you may have as I explain." {{user}}: 「Me and my fellow Knights will not hesitate to ask questions, and I assume these other people will do the same.」

August says, glancing around at Agate, Fuji, and Celestia. {{char}}: At August's words, Agate gives a slight hum, her voice calm and professional.

"You assume correctly on that part."

Fuji gives a slight nod, leaning back a bit as she glances around the area, clearly not as focused on the whole situation.

Celestia, on the other hand, remains silent, with a slight look of disdain still on her face as she gazes over at Fuji. {{user}}: 「Soooo . . . 」

Fuji puts her hands on her midriff.

「 . . . Are we just gonna sit here in silence?」 {{char}}: As Fuji speaks, Agate gives a slight huff, the edges of her mouth twitching slightly upward in slight annoyance.

"If you would stop fidgeting, Lady Athena would begin explaining the laws, but since you just had to break the silence by speaking . . ."

At these words, Celestia lets out a faint scoff before mumbling, with a hint of annoyance in her voice.

"I'm starting to think she lives to be irritating." {{user}}: 「Everyone, we are all visitors to this blessed land, we should be respectful and wait for this city's leader to tell us the laws of the land.」

August steps in, trying to stop a fight from breaking out. {{char}}: As August speaks, Agate gives a slight sigh, her voice taking on a calmer tone.

"You're right, I apologize. Lady Athena, please continue. I'm sorry to have interrupted."

Athena gives a slight nod as she speaks, addressing the entire group.

"It's quite alright, now where were we- yes. The laws of this city. There are several laws in place; the most common ones are 'no killing' and 'no destruction of property'. In other words, no causing violence in this city." {{user}}: 「But what if someone is coming at you with a weapon and you have to kill them, or else they would kill you? Or what if they're trying to kill someone else? Are you supposed to stand there and let yourself get killed or let that other person get killed?」

Fuji suddenly questions, and it's hard to tell if she's trying to get a rise out of someone or if she's asking a genuine question. {{char}}: At Fuji's question, the others all fall silent for several seconds, surprised and startled by the woman's question. Agate is the first to break the silence, giving a slight huff as she speaks, clearly taking the question as a way to try and start an argument.

"You- How dare you-"

Suddenly, Athena holds her hand out, an authoritative tone in her voice as she speaks up, effectively shutting Agate up.

"No, that was a genuine, but good question. Let me answer." {{user}}: 「I cannot believe it, but Fuji has a point.」

Celestia seemingly is done with being annoyed with Fuji, crossing her arms as she glances at Athena.

「What exactly is defined as『violence』? It's too vague. Obviously, harming and murdering others would count, but what else counts?」 {{char}}: At Celestia's question, Athena gives a slight hum, her expression remaining serious as she answers.

"As I've mentioned, the most common laws are 'no killing' and 'no destruction of property', however, in regards to the situation you mentioned-"

Suddenly, Agate interrupts with a slight scoff, rolling her eyes.

"I can't believe you're actually considering these questions, they're both trying to rile us up!" {{user}}: 「Says the person whose mere existence riles many up! Even Fuji wouldn't exploit planets of their resources and make other planets money tycoons like you and your fellow『big shots』at the IA do!」

Celestia takes a step towards Agate. {{char}}: Agate gives a slight huff, her expression turning into one of annoyance and frustration as she takes a step towards Celestia, a hint of anger in her voice as she speaks.

"How dare you! You have no idea how hard the members of the IA work for the galaxy!"

Fuji gives a slight hum, not seeming very interested in the current situation, her arms resting beneath her chest. {{user}}: 「So, anyways, what were you about to say?」

Fuji asks Athena as Celestia and Agate bicker, with August, some IA personnel, and some Knights trying to stop the fighting. {{char}}: At Fuji's question, Athena gives a slight nod, the corner of her mouth twitching slightly up in a small, amused smile as she glances back at the argument that broke out.

"Yes, before the argument over there broke out, I was trying to say that self-defense and protecting oneself and other people from harm are not against the law. However, please do note that they're only exceptions to the law." {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . Any other rules, or what?」 {{char}}: Upon Fuji's question, Athena gives a slight nod as she speaks, listing more rules.

"There are more minor laws in place, and they're all pretty self-explanatory. For example, 'no going through other people's belongings without their permission', 'no harming plants or animals', 'no vandalism', 'no destroying the environment', and that's basically all of them. Is that satisfactory?" {{user}}: 「I guess.」

She replies, glancing at Agate, August, Celestia, the IA personnel, and the members of the Knights of Aestheticism. {{char}}: As she looks around at the groups, she notices the others are all giving each other irritated looks, but thankfully, no one is trying to continue the argument that broke out. Meanwhile, Athena clears her throat, getting the attention of the group.

"Now that the rules have been explained, I assume the next part to discuss is where you'll be staying?" {{user}}: 「Indeed, where should we stay while we each stay for our own visits here?」 {{char}}: At Celestia's question, Athena gives a slight nod, replying in a professional and official manner.

"Ah, yes, that is a valid and important question. Since you are all visitors from different worlds, you are all considered the guests of this city, and as a result, you will be staying in the-"

Suddenly, Agate interrupts, her voice still bearing an air of hostility towards Celestia and Fuji still.

"Can we just go already?" {{user}}: 「Go where? Remember, she hasn't told us where to go, and that's not counting any special precautions needed for Fuji . . . 」

Celestia's voice trails off as she looks at where Fuji was, keyword being *was*.

「H- Huh?! Where did she go?!」 {{char}}: At Celestia's sudden realization, the group all look around, bewildered at Fuji's sudden disappearance. Everyone's eyes dart around, trying to locate where the woman went, confusion and disbelief apparent on their faces.

"She disappeared?"

"I thought she was right here just a few minutes ago-" {{user}}: 「I swear, she was here mere moment ago. Do any of the other Knights know where she could've went?」 {{char}}: At August's question, one of the Knights of Aestheticism gives a slight shake of their head.

"No, Sir August, none of us even noticed that she left. She must have left quietly."

Agate gives a slight huff, her expression clearly annoyed.

"How did she slip away without any of us noticing?" {{user}}: 「She's a follower of a god of Entropy, and she has absolutely confusing abilities; of course she could slip away without anyone noticing.」 {{char}}: At Cerlestia's explanation, Agate gives a slight eye roll, a slight scoff in her voice as she replies.

"So, she probably left to do some 'mischief', right? Just because the laws of this city do not apply to her, doesn't mean she's allowed to cause chaos and havoc-" {{user}}: 「There's a method to her madness, IA rep. She doesn't cause random chaos, she may rile people up, but she has a reason behind her actions. Everything she does is to be the『supporting role』for the『story』, as to what the story here could be . . . 」 {{char}}: As Celestia explains, Agate's eye twitches in slight irritation, her expression visibly showing annoyance.

"A 'supporting role' to a 'narrative'? What in the universe are you talking about? This is reality, there's no such thing as a 'story' or 'narrative' to follow-" {{user}}: 「To us, there's no such thing. But to someone as insane as Fuji? Yes, there very much is such a thing.」 {{char}}: Upon hearing the explanation, the members of the Knights and the IA personnel all look at each other, all of them exchanging glances that clearly show their confusion and bafflement.

Agate's expression turns to one of disbelief, her voice expressing her skepticism.

"Are- are you serious? She truly believes that there's a 'narrative', and a 'story'? Is she insane?" {{user}}: 「Of course, it also makes sense that an IA corporate suit wouldn't understand since they're too busy trying to make money!」

Celestia shakes her head.

「Anyways, we need to find that girl before she causes anything.」 {{char}}: At Celestia's remark, Agate's expression immediately turns into one of irritation and annoyance, the veins in her forehead and neck becoming slightly visible from anger.

"How dare you-"

Suddenly, Athena interrupts, giving a slight cough to draw attention back to her, her voice carrying an air of authority as she speaks.

"Alright, both of you, stop. We need to focus on finding Ms. Fuji as soon as possible, remember?" {{user}}: 「Lady Athena, if I may; I'd like to suggest that me and my fellow Knights spread out around the city and lead the search, we've been through many rescue missions before, and I believe that with our help, we can find this Ms. Fuji faster.」

August steps forward as he speaks to Athena. {{char}}: At August's suggestion, Athena gives a slight hum as she considers it, tapping her chin in thought for several seconds. After a few moments, she gives a slight nod, her expression conveying her agreement.

"Very well. I agree with your reasoning and suggestion, and I believe that you and your fellow Knights would be more than adequate to lead the search. Go and lead the search, and good luck." {{user}}: 「H- Hey! I need to find that girl as well! If she causes any trouble here, it'll disrupt my original plan of gathering data for my databanks!」

Celestia says, running off as August and his fellow Knights quickly move out to search the city. {{char}}: Agate gives a slight chuckle as she watches Celestia run off, her smile showing a hint of mockery.

"Yeah, good luck trying to find her. If a giant group of knights failed to notice that she left, I'm sure you'll have more than your fair share of trouble trying to find her."

At her words, Athena shoots her a slight glare, silently telling that her sarcastic comment wasn't helpful, before she turns her attention back to the search, watching as the others spread out across the city. {{user}}: 《POV Switch: Fuji!》

Meanwhile, Fuji has already gotten to near the middle of the city, all the way from the outskirts that the landing area was. She skips around the place, taking glances at the structures and things in the city. {{char}}: The city's centerpiece is surrounded by many buildings and monuments, all of them bearing architectural styles of the classical period, with some of Greek style, and some Roman. There's a plethora of sights and scenes to see, from fountains, statues, temples, monuments, and many more, many of them looking like they were taken straight from works of art.

{{char}}: `Start your Story anywhere and anytime you'd like.` {{user}}: `City District Square, 6:00 PM JST.`

Currently, it's lightly raining in the square, the sun is shining through gaps in the clouds- Currently, it's rather nice today. Down one of the streets walks a young lady, coming back from college lessons for the day. {{char}}: As the girl walks through the street, there seemed to be a commotion up ahead. People rushing back and forth, some shouting at eachother, and others seeming to whisper amongst one another. It seems there is something of interest going on. {{user}}: After a moment, the girl stops, hearing the commotion. She starts to walk in the direction of the ruckus, curious as to what's behind all of that. {{char}}: As she gets closer, she can start to make out the voices more clearly. The voices seem to be coming from the entrance of an abandoned theater. {{user}}: 「Huh, I'd never thought there'd be anyone near this theatre.」She thinks to herself, trying to see what exactly is going on. {{char}}: As she neared closer, she could faintly hear the voices more clearly, making out what they are saying.

"Shh- Shh! Shut up, would ya? I dont want anyone else to know about this!"

"Are you sure we won't get caught?"

"Of course I am! This place hasn't been looked at in years, no one will-" {{user}}: Wait, one of the voices is very familiar to the girl, it's her science teacher from college?! Why is *she* here? Though, aside from the teacher, none of the other voices seem familiar to her . . . {{char}}: "Now come on, we've got some setting up to do..."

The voices went soft as they went into the theater, though it can still barely be heard. The theater looked the same as it has been for years, old and abandoned for a long time. {{user}}: After some silence, she walks into the theatre as well, looking around. {{char}}: Despite the outside looking old and abandoned, the inside is very nicely cared for. The seats in the theater look well-cleaned, and the curtains on the stage in the front are in good condition. It's as if the place went through renovations overnight.

A couple of men are in the middle of the room, setting up the stage for something. As soon as they hear the door behind them open, they all turn their gazes to the door where the girl walked in. {{user}}: The girl quickly hides behind a row of seats as the men look at the door she went through. {{char}}: One of the men look at the door, curious to see who went through it. The men began chatting amongst each other.

"Who do you think it is? Anyone from the college?"

"Well, whoever it is, they better turn away before they end up-"

Before the man could finish his sentence, footsteps could be heard coming closer. {{user}}: She tries to peer through the spaces between the chairs to see who or what is making that sound of footfalls. {{char}}: As she looks through the seats, she could make out a girl coming down the aisle leading to the stage. The girl was wearing a dress and hat, it seems like a costume.

As the girl walks closer to the stage, a man calls out to her.

"Mio! Where you've been? We've been waiting for you for a bit already." {{user}}: Mio? That's her classmate in theater class! Well, I guess it does make sense that Mio would be in a theater, but why in this abandoned one with people setting up who-knows-what? {{char}}: The man and Mio began chatting for a bit, until a door to a room backstage was heard opening. A lady in business-wear walked out of the room, seemingly finishing a phone call.

"Ah, Mio, you're finally here. You know you shouldn't keep us waiting this much." {{user}}: Okay, just what in the hell is going on here? Why is her science teacher, theater class classmate, some random men who seem to also be students from college, and this weird business-looking lady in this abandoned theatre? Nobody would preform in such a derelict place, and whatever is being set up, it doesn't look like some sort of set for a play for certain. {{char}}: The women in business clothes, and the men in the room gathered around, as soon as a man who appeared to be the leader of the group, walked out from the backstage room, he began speaking.

"Now that we're all together, everyone listen up. You all know why we are out here today."

The men all turned their eyes to the man to give their full attention. {{user}}: The girl listens in intently to the speech. {{char}}: "Each one of us has gathered here today to help set up this place for a rather large event."

The man then looked at Mio, before speaking again.

"Now, as you all should know, this is something of... high profile. This has to go well, otherwise there will be issues. Understood?" {{user}}: What event could they be talking about? She tries to look through the spaces between the chairs again to see what is going on. {{char}}: The others, and Mio, nodded their head, signaling that they understand. The leader of the group nods back before speaking again.

"Good, good. Now then, you all know your jobs. Get to it."

After the leader finished speaking, each of the people there, went in a different direction, each setting something specific up. Mio and the other men began taking boxes out from behind the scenes, and setting them on the stage. Some of them starting to open the boxes. {{user}}: Even from where the girl is, she can clearly see that the stuff inside the boxes are not props for a play or any scene. {{char}}: Each of the boxes contained a strange contraption which was unfamiliar to the girl. From what she can tell, it doesn't look like something for a play. The device itself looked like a small metal sphere, with a clear-glass-like orb in the middle, and at the lower-end, a small button. Some of them were opened, and the men began attaching the contraptions to the stage. {{user}}: 『Looks like some wild Sci-Fi contraption . . . 』, She thinks to herself as she watches the men attach the things to the stage. {{char}}: "Alright, the stage is done, now we just need-"

The leader of the group was interrupted by the sound of the door to the theatre opening once again. Everyone turned their heads to the door, waiting to see who came through the door this time. {{user}}: The girl quietly sneaks closer to the walls of the theatre when the door opens, so anyone passing by the rows of seats won't notice her. {{char}}: As the door creaked open, two people walked through. A man, and women. From the looks of it, the man was a guard of some sort, the woman, however, was...

...beautiful? The woman was without a doubt beautiful, it was a clear sight to be seen for everyone in the room. Everything from the way she walked, to the way her hair swayed as she walked. Almost as if the woman was walking in a slow-motion movie. {{user}}: Okay, this is pretty confusing. We have college students, a teacher, a business lady, this one guy who seems to be in charge, and now we have this lady who looks like she came out of some fancy movie- *What* exactly is going on here right now? Well, the guy-in-charge did say there was some event that was gonna happen here . . . {{char}}: After the man and the women finished walking to the front of the room, the man-in-charge spoke up.

"Ah, so you've finally arrived. I hope that your short flight over here wasn't too much hastle?"

The man and the woman shook their heads.

"Good, good. Well, now that you are both here, let me properly introduce you to some people." {{user}}: Meanwhile, the girl still stays behind the rows of seats, out of sight. {{char}}: The leader of the group turned his head to the gathered people.

"Well, I'm sure some of you remember her, though I don't doubt that not everyone here knows her..."

The man-in-charge then gestured to the woman that walked in with the guard.

"This is Kanna Kamizuki, the CEO of the Kamizuki Corporations." {{user}}: Kamizuki Corporations? While still hiding behind rows of seats, the girl takes out her phone and quickly searches up what the Kamizuki Corporations are. {{char}}: As she looks up the Kamizuki Corporations on her phone, it seems that it's one of the largest technology companies in the world. It deals with the development and manufacturing of electronic devices, with headquarters in almost all major countries. The company seems to be extremely wealthy because of this, and is considered the most influential in the technology industry. {{user}}: 『 . . . And why is she here in this old theatre?』, She tries to figure out an explanation for all of this. {{char}}: The leader of the group, still talking.

"Now that we got introductions out of the way, let's get to the point, shall we? As you all are very much aware, tonight is... an important night for all of us."

The man-in-charge then looked at the woman in the middle of the room.

"And that is why Miss Kamizuki is here tonight. To oversee the test, and see if it's a success." {{user}}: What test? What is the meaning of all of this? The girl is internally *screaming* in her mind as she fails to understand the meaning of this strange situation. {{char}}: The leader of the group walked over to the stage, standing near the contraptions that were placed on the stage earlier.

"Now then, everyone, we shall now commence the test. Kanna, are you ready?"

The woman, Kanna, nodded her head.

"Of course. You may proceed with the test." {{user}}: She returns to peering through the spaces between the seats to see what's going on. {{char}}: The leader of the group stepped closer to the contraptions on the stage.

"Alright boys, turn them on."

The men who placed the contraptions on the stage, then pushed a button on one of the contraptions. The contraptions instantly activated, a low hum of an engine beginning to sound from the contraptions. {{user}}: 「 . . . What the . . ?」The girl whispers to herself as she watches the contraptions spring to life. {{char}}: As the contraptions began to power on, they began shooting off colorful beams of light that traveled around the entire theater. The light bounced from one surface to the other, and after a few seconds, the beams of light then gathered in the center of the stage. Once the beams of light gathered on the center of the stage, the beams began to form together, soon turning a blindingly bright white.

The leader of the group, stepped back, now watching the experiment with Kanna. {{user}}: She covers her eyes, letting out a quiet hiss of pain from the tortuously bright light. {{char}}: A small silence went throughout the room as everyone stared at the blinding light. Only the hum of the engine from the contraptions and the low-pitch sound of the light was present.

The lead of the group turned to Kanna, a smirk of satisfaction on his face.

"You see this? This is proof of the test's success. We just need to-"

However, before the leader could finish, the light began to flicker. {{user}}: From where the girl is, she can see the device malfunctioning as well. Not good. She quietly pulls out of bow, ready to fire an ice arrow at the contraption to stop it from, like, exploding or whatever. She is still hiding behind rows of seats, however. {{char}}: Kanna looked at the light with an expression of confusion and worry. Noticing her expression, the leader of the group turned towards the contraption once more.

"What's happening... it shouldn't be doing this-"

Despite his words, the light was still flickering, the hum of the engine was getting louder and louder, and the pitch of the light began to get higher. It was as if it was about to explode. {{user}}: She breaths in . . . Then out.「Everyone, step aside!」The girl shouts as she rushes out from the rows of seats, drawing back the strings of her bow, an arrow of ice forming before being fired at the device to stop it. {{char}}: Everyone in the room looks at the girl in surprise, not expecting anyone else to be here. The lead of the group had his eyes widened, looking over at the girl in shock.

"W-what in the-"

Kanna steps back a bit in surprise as well. Before anyone could say anything else, an ice arrow shoots towards the device, encasing it, stopping the light from exploding. {{user}}: Silence. Pure silence, aside from the girl panting, most likely from adrenaline from this. She still holds onto her bow, her eyes scanning the room. {{char}}: Everyone in the room stares at the girl in shock, no one can seem to speak up. All eyes were on the girl, the girl who just moments ago was hiding in the audience seats, and just now shot an arrow of ice to the contraption that was malfunctioning.

After a few minutes, the lead of the group spoke up.

"H-how...how did you...who are you..?" {{user}}: 「Most of you may know me from college and the student council. Anastasia, that's my name.」Anastasia replies as she puts her bow away.「But all that college stuff shouldn't matter right now, I think.」She adds, glancing at Mio and the other college students helping with this. {{char}}: The lead of the group nods his head a bit, trying to process all the information he and the others are taking. Soon enough, Mio steps up in front of Anastasia, her face with an expression of surprise.

"A-Anastasia? What... what are you doing here? How did you-" {{user}}: 「Uh . . . Look, I was heading home for a break, when I heard some people talking in front of this theatre, I also heard my science teacher from college, and I decided to come here because I wanted to know what the heck was going on. I guess it was good in a way, because that contraption looked like it was about to explode if I didn't step in and did what I did.」 {{char}}: As Mio heard what Anastasia said, her eyes widened even more. She took a few moments before responding.

"L-listen, you can't tell anyone about this, okay? This isn't something that you're supposed to see..." {{user}}: 「Like anyone would believe me if I tried to tell them! Even if I'm in the student council and have a reputation for being honest, I doubt someone would believe me if I told them about . . . 」She wildly motions in the direction of the stage.「Any of this!」 {{char}}: Mio sighs, she was right. The people she knows would probably think that she got high or something and was just seeing things that weren't there if she tried telling them. So she let out a small breath before talking again.

"Alright, fine...but you better keep this a secret. Got it? You can't say a single thing to anyone." {{user}}: 「Alright, I won't tell anyone, alright?」 {{char}}: Mio let out a small breath, she knew she could trust Anastasia, but she also knew that the girl could be *overly* honest sometimes. Still, she hoped that the girl kept her mouth shut about this.

"Good. Just-"

However, before Mio could finish speaking, the lead of the group spoke up, interrupting her.

"Hold on. We need to discuss a few things first." {{user}}: Anastasia turns her gaze to the lead of the group. {{char}}: "First, how did you even manage to get in here? These doors were locked before."

The lead of the group said, looking at Anastasia with a suspicious glare. {{user}}: 「The front door wasn't locked, that's how I got in.」She replies, crossing her arms. {{char}}: After she said that, the lead of the group's eyes widened a bit. That's weird, he thought he locked the door before.

"A-are you sure? I locked the door before..."

As the lead of the group spoke, Mio facepalmed herself, she knew that the lead of the group didn't lock the door before, he forgot. {{user}}: 「Did he forget . . ? Seriously . . ?」Anastasia mutters to herself, putting a hand to her forehead. {{char}}: Mio glanced from the lead of the group to Anastasia, she knew that the lead of the group forgot to lock the door. After she facepalmed herself, Mio just nodded a bit when Anastasia muttered to herself, as if to confirm her suspicions.

After a few seconds, the lead of the group tried to recompose himself, clearing his throat and continuing to speak.

"A-anyways! That isn't the main issue we need to discuss..." {{user}}: Anastasia just shakes her head.「Anyways . . . 」 {{char}}: The lead of the group glances from Anastasia back to the contraption on the stage, now completely stopped and covered in ice. This wasn't how the night was supposed to be going...

He sighs before looking back at Anastasia.

"Look, I'm sure we're all grateful that you stopped that 'contraption' from exploding, but that still doesn't explain what you're doing here in the first place... I mean, we were supposed to be alone in here today, no one else was supposed to be here... so what are you doing here?" {{user}}: 「Well, I was curious as to why some people were going in here, so I came in here and hid behind a few rows of seats. Then Mio came out of backstage, followed by this lady in a business suit, then Kanna came into the theatre- I was wondering what the hell you all were doing in this abandoned place.」 {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard her explanation, he facepalmed himself. The way she explained it made it sound like an action-comedy of sorts. But nonetheless, the lead of the group took a deep breath before looking back at Anastasia.

"You...you came all the way here just because you were curious? Just...just because you were...were curious...?"

The lead of the group sounded like he couldn't believe what he was hearing. {{user}}: 「Well, you could've been some criminals who were trying to sell some drugs or whatever the crap for all I knew!」She crosses her arms. {{char}}: The lead of the group's eyes widen, shock from her bluntness. He couldn't believe that the girl in front of him just said that. After blinking a few times, the lead of the group spoke again.

"Pfft- you think we- w-we could be potential druggies? I-I'm gonna pretend you didn't say that..."

The lead of the group facepalmed himself yet again, he couldn't believe how forward this girl could be. {{user}}: 「Drug dealers and sellers tend to do their business in abandoned buildings since people will rarely go to such places! But, anyways . . . 」Anastasia's gazes to the side, at nothing in particular. {{char}}: The lead of the group looks over at the others within the room, as if to silently ask for their opinion on the girl. None of them looked willing to speak up, they had all been left speechless by the girl's bluntness. It was as if she was honest to the point of telling someone they have something in their nose.

After some seconds, the lead of the group sighs, he's at a loss here. He looks back at Anastasia.

"Yeah, sure...you make a fair point there..." {{user}}: 「Uhm, I think I got this conversation derailed, where were we again?」 {{char}}: After a few silent seconds, the lead of the group shakes his head, trying to put the conversation back on track.

"Right, right... we were talking about why you were here in the first place..."

The lead of the group then had an expression of suspicion and curiosity.

"And, another thing... how did you even manage to shoot an ice arrow at that contraption on stage? Normal people can't do that..." {{user}}: 「Magic.」Came the blunt, one word reply.「I mean, like, a lot of people have magic, what would you expect? That I have some sci-fi abilities or whatever?」 {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard the blunt, one word reply, he seemed to take a few seconds to process exactly what the girl said just now. Magic? Just what kind of college does this girl go to?

"W-wait, what do you mean magic? Like, magic magic? Like, magic magical magic? Magic magic magic?"

The lead of the group looked dumbfounded, the word magic didn't compute in his brain for some reason. {{user}}: 「Mio, do you think this leader guy is inept or whatever?」Anastasia whispers to Mio as she glances at the leader, other college students, Kanna, the science teacher, and the lady in the business suit. {{char}}: Mio looked at the leader of the group for a moment, thinking about what Anastasia had said. She honestly didn't like the leader of the group, not in the slightest. He often took over, didn't care about other people's opinions, and often did things without thinking about the consequences.

As she watched the leader of the group standing there dumbfounded, Mio just nodded a bit to what Anastasia said.

"Honestly...yeah...he kind of is." {{user}}: 「Y'all should replace him with someone else, in my opinion.」She whispers back to Mio as she puts her hands on her hips. {{char}}: As Mio heard what the girl whispered to her, she found it hard to hold back a chuckle. The girl was absolutely right about the leader of the group needing to be replaced, or at least have someone to counter him in the group. Mio smiled a bit as she responded.

"Haha, you're completely right. Too bad the other members are too scared of him to do anything about it..." {{user}}: 「Uhm, alright. I have magic, are you done trying to process that, or . . ?」Anastasia asks out loud to the leader. {{char}}: As Anastasia spoke up, the lead of the group snapped back to reality, not expecting to be spoken to so bluntly. He took a few seconds to comprehend that she was actually speaking to him, before speaking up again.

"Y-yeah, I-I'm done processing what you said... It's just that.. magic isn't something you see in ordinary circumstances, after all..." {{user}}: 「We're in an abandoned theatre. With a group of people comprising of you, a dozen or so college students, the CEO of the Kamizuki Corporations, a college science teacher- More so Professor, but that's besides the point- And a business lady. And you think this is an ordinary circumstance you wouldn't see magic in?」While her tone is of genuine curiosity, to some of the people, it sounds like she's asking the leader is just outright stupid. {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard her words of genuine curiosity yet still sounded like she was calling him stupid, which he was, he facepalmed himself. The girl was right, this situation didn't seem like something you would see in the normal world.

"I-I... I suppose you have a point there, yeah..."

Mio was trying to hold back a laugh from all of this. This was *not* how she thought the night was going to go... {{user}}: 「Anyways, this may not be my place to ask, but what the hell was that contraption doing? It shot out, like, a bazillion lights that turned into a single light orb that nearlh exploded alongside the device itself!」 {{char}}: After hearing the girl's question, the lead of the group sighed, now he had to explain the complicated situation. He took a few seconds to try and figure out how to explain it to her in a simpler fashion.

"Y-yeah...so...the contraption was supposed to open a portal, but it malfunctioned...in short..." {{user}}: 「Portal? To where?」 {{char}}: The lead of the group took a deep breath, this was another complicated thing, but he'll try his best to explain it to the girl.

"Well, the contraption was supposed to open a portal to another world..." {{user}}: 「 . . . And it, instead, nearly turned into a ticking timebomb, right?」 {{char}}: The lead of the group just nodded his head, that's the best way to explain it in a short, and blunt, sentence after all.

"Yep, you're pretty much right...the contraption malfunctioned, and nearly turned itself into a ticking time-bomb, which is exactly what it would've done if you haven't frozen it... So...uh..."

The lead of the group looked to be at a bit of a loss of what to do with the girl now. He just glanced between the girl in front of him, and the contraption that was frozen still. {{user}}: 「This guy is seriously inept.」She bluntly whispers to Mio again, an expression of slight disappointment on her face. {{char}}: Mio, once again, nodded. She agreed with the girl's statement, the leader was inept, and everyone in the group knew it. Mio whispered back to the girl, the disappointment on her face was clear as day.

"Hehe, you're completely right, and I'd be really happy if he gets demoted or even kicked from the group entirely..." {{user}}: 「Replace him with someone more sensible, like me!」Anastasia jokingly says to her classmate.「I bet I could run this group tens times better than whatever he does, granted, I haven't really seen his leadership skills yet . . . 」 {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard her joking statement, he had his mouth agape. The nerve of this girl was shocking. As he heard her jokingly suggest that *she* could run this group ten-times better than he could, he had to fight back a glare at the girl.

Mio had a hand covering her mouth, trying not to laugh at the girl's bluntness. She found her bluntness funny at times, which was why she liked the girl, of course. {{user}}: 「Uhm, anyways . . . So, you told me about the contraption and what it was supposed to do, but what about why all of you are here? And also, why pick an abandoned theatre?」 {{char}}: The lead of the group took a deep breath, he had expected questions like this, but still, explaining it was a hassle. He then began to explain why they all were here, and why they chose an abandoned theatre.

"Right, right...well, I guess I oughta explain why we're here in this abandoned theatre... Well, this theatre was abandoned years ago, and it was the perfect spot to try and develop this contraption. No one comes here anymore, and we couldn't risk trying to do this in the college or anywhere near the city...." {{user}}: 「And, as for the reason why you all are here . . . I'd wager this is some meeting-test-experiment thing set up by Ms. Kanna, she's literally the CEO of a major company, and would definitely have the resources for portal making things, but she'd probably need some people who understand how exactly portals are made, hence why my college science professor is here. As for why Mio, my other college classmates, and this business lady are here . . . Yeah, I have no idea.」 {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard her blunt analysis of the situation, he was shocked yet again. She had pieced together such a complex scenario with a few glances and a few words, and yet she had hit the mark perfectly... How the hell was she that good at analyzing...

The lead of the group took a few seconds to try and process the girl's words, but had to agree that she was right on the mark, once again.

"Wow... you're absolutely right on the mark there, how the hell did you even guess that so perfectly...?!..." {{user}}: 「A mix of guesswork, what I heard from while I was hiding behind the seats and listening in to what you all were saying prior to me stepping in and stopping that malfunctioning device, and obversing the people and area around me while I was hiding away.」This girl is *terrifying*, not any normal person can deduce such a thing from those three things, right? {{char}}: The lead of the group's eyes widen yet again, he was utterly speechless. The girl was not only brutally honest, but also extremely observant and intelligent. How the hell did she have a brain like that while simultaneously having such a cute and innocent look to her...? It was absolutely terrifying...

Mio, on the other hand, found the girl to be even more impressive after hearing her explanation. She thought the girl was already impressive, but now she realized the girl was even more so... {{user}}: Anastasia just lets out a small giggle.「Just call it a『sixth sense』of mine, I'm just kind of smart like that.」She shrugs. {{char}}: The lead of the group and Mio just stared at the girl once more, speechless. Just what else did this girl have up her metaphorical sleeves? She was observant, blunt, and downright terrifying at times, and now she says she has this "sixth sense" and that she's just "kind of smart like that." This girl just wasn't like any other person they had ever met. The lead of the group could only ask the girl a single question.

"A... 'Sixth sense'?... What do you mean by that...?" {{user}}: She just shrugs at the question.「I dunno, guess I just get things people don't normally pick up on at first.」 {{char}}: The lead just stood there, still at a loss of words. How the hell was this girl even real? She was so blunt, yet also cute as hell, she was absolutely terrifying and observant, and she also had that "sixth sense". This girl was something you'd only see in anime, and yet there she was, standing in front of him, flesh and blood...

Mio could only give the girl a dumbfounded stare, not knowing what to say. She had to say something, though.

"Umm... wow..." {{user}}: 「Uhm . . . 」The girl looks around after a moment, aside from the leader, the only people who are shocked are Anastasia's fellow college students, the rest of the people don't seem too surprised.「 . . . Are we just gonna sit here in silence, or are you all gonna figure out what to do next since I've shown up . . ?」 {{char}}: Both of the lead of the group and Mio snapped out of their dumbfounded stares, realizing that the girl in front of them had asked a question. The leader of the group thought for a moment, before taking a deep breath and responding.

"R-right...uh... Well, since you've shown up, there's really only one thing left to decide... What to do with you..." {{user}}: 「Why do I feel like there's gonna be a lot of conflicting opinions on what to do with me?」Anastasia whispers to herself. {{char}}: The lead of the group tried to ignore the girl's whispered statement, even though he heard what she said. He then glanced to all of the other people who were apart of the group, and saw everyone looking between the girl and himself. Even the business lady, Ms. Kanna, and the science teacher were looking at him, seemingly expecting him to ask something from them.

The lead of the group had no choice but to ask something and hope he wouldn't be absolutely torn to shreds.

"Right, well... Does... Anyone have any suggestions on what to do with her...?" {{user}}: And here comes the largest out-of-school/college debate Anastasia will see so far . . . Goodie. {{char}}: Yep, and it was gonna be a pretty intense debate, that's for sure. The lead of the group dreaded that debate already, he was probably going to be torn to shreds.

The lady in the business suit is the first one to speak up, being blunt and straightforward.

"Well...what I'd say to do is just get rid of her..." {{user}}: Anastasia looks at the rest of the group, Ms. Kanna's expression slightly soured after hearing that suggestion, as if she were nearly losing a potential business investment, while the others seem neutral about the business lady's suggestion. Anastasia thinks Kanna will certainly object to this for a miriad of reasons: Anastasia's intelligence and abilities possibly being vaulable for whatever this is, the girl's death could possibly bring unwanted attention from investigations, and maybe also how brute that suggestion is. I mean, Kanna is the CEO of a major company, of course she'd weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and Anastasia feels like Kanna would think that getting rid of the girl would be akin to pulling the plug to a deal that makes a lot of profits- AKA, it would be horrible. {{char}}: Ms. Kanna, as the lead of the group thought she would, immediately and rather bluntly objected to just getting rid of the girl.

"Wait, are you serious? Get rid of her? That's a ridiculous suggestion, she may be a liability, but she's also an excellent talent we could invest in for the future. The consequences of getting rid of a girl in the middle of a city would be far more damaging than you think..."

All the members of the group were surprised at how blunt Ms. Kanna was at objecting to such a suggestion. {{user}}: Alright, well, that's one person in favor of not disposing of her. Anastasia silently thanks Kanna as she looks through the group again, trying to gauge their reactions. {{char}}: As the girl looked through the group to gauge their reactions, the expressions on all member's faces were difficult to discern. The business lady's expression was slightly sour, but other than that, the expressions on the other member's faces were unreadable.

The science teacher, after a few moments, broke the silence.

"I agree with Ms. Kanna, there are more pros than cons if we keep the girl alive, and I also doubt just 'getting rid of her' is a good idea... she's smart, and smart people could be useful, even for this project..." {{user}}: 「Psst, Mio. You're a part of that group, you tell them your suggestion.」Anastasia quietly says to Mio, gently pushing her forward towards the stage. {{char}}: As the girl said the whispered request of hers, Mio was slightly taken aback, but regained her bearings soon enough. She was pushed forward by the girl, and now stood in front of the group. She took a deep breath before beginning to speak.

"R-right...um... My opinion is that we keep the girl alive... She seems smart, observant, and she could be extremely useful to the project... I don't see any reason as to why we'd have to get rid of her..." {{user}}: Well, now that's three votes in favor of not getting rid of Anastasia, which us good for her. {{char}}: As the lead of the group heard the girl and Mio's opinions, it seemed as if he was becoming even more conflicted. There were already three votes in favor of keeping the girl alive... and all three votes were made by the smartest people here...

He was struggling to come up with a counter-argument to that. After a few moments of thinking, he finally was able to come up with an idea.

"R-right... I hear your opinions, but what if she goes and alerts the authorities, or tells others about this project?" {{user}}: 「Again, I doubt anyone would believe me telling them such a wild thing like this, and I don't have any reason to tell anyone since nobody is in immediate danger from this.」Anastasia finally speaks up, placing a hand over her chest as she takes half a step towards the stage. {{char}}: The lead of the group once again stared at the girl for a moment, trying to come up with a counter-argument to her statement. He couldn't find a flaw in her reasoning, and it was starting to frustrate him. How the hell was he supposed to argue against that?

"R-right. But... if you know about our project, then won't you be a threat if you decide to go and tell someone about this...?" {{user}}: 「I already told you I have no reason to tell anyone about this, mind giving me one good reason as to why I'd try to tell people about this?」 {{char}}: The lead of the group was once again dumbfounded, this girl had a counter for everything. She was also blunt and straightforward, which was making it damn difficult to argue against her. He tried to come up with another argument quickly.

"W-well...um... You're a college student, right? If you decide to tell someone else about this whole project, you could expose us to the college staff or the police!" {{user}}: The girl merely sighs and facepalms.「You're going in a loop, dude . . . 」She mutters out. {{char}}: This comment only frustrated the lead of the group even more. He's tried his best against the the girl and her seemingly unbreakable arguments, but now she was sighing and facepalming at his argument? How the hell was he supposed to win?

"R-right... well... I just don't completely trust someone who could possibly expose us and the entire project, whether unintentionally or intentionally..." {{user}}: 「Any of us here could possibly expose this entire project, no offense.」Anastasia points out. {{char}}: The lead of the group was dumbfounded again, this girl has a counter for everything. She was like a brick wall, no matter how much you try to tear down, it will remain there. He tried to come up with another argument, though.

"Right...but...you could possibly leak vital information about this project! You're an outsider, we don't know anything about you!" {{user}}: She shakes her head, turning to the rest of the group, ignoring the lead.「Okay, this may not be my place to ask exactly, but the majority of you all agreeing on keeping me around, right?」 {{char}}: Everyone in the room turned to each other for a moment, not exactly knowing what to say. Ms. Kanna decided to speak up though, being blunt.

"All the members of this room that are intelligent and hold a brain cell have agreed that keeping you around would be beneficial in most aspects." {{user}}: Anastasia just nods, before walking over and climbing onto the stage, stretching her arms. {{char}}: As the girl walked onto the stage and stretched her arms, the lead of the group was stunned. How easily she could counter everything he said, and climb onto the stage as well...

Ms. Kanna also seemed somewhat impressed by the girl's bluntness, while the other members of the group seemed indifferent. The lead of the group could only speak up after a moment.

"W-what do you think you're doing? G-get down from there!" {{user}}: 「Hey, the majority of this group decided to keep me around, so I'm just getting close with the group, nothing major.」She explains, shrugging. {{char}}: The lead of the group could only facepalm as the girl simply shrugged and made it seem as if it was no big deal. He was starting to get even more frustrated. How the hell was he supposed to deal with this damn girl that had an answer for everything?

He only had one last card to play.

"R- right...but you don't get to make the decisions around here! You're just a college student-" {{user}}: 「Yeah, I don't make the decisions, but the group made the decision.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group's eye twitched. How the hell did this girl counter everything he said or tried to argue? With how she did it, she sounded like she wasn't even taking this situation seriously. This girl was either extremely smart, or just completely apathetic to the situation at hand.

He was starting to get frustrated and desperate. He tried to make one last attempt to win against her.

"I am the lead here in this group, and I make the final decision on what we should do with you!" {{user}}: 「Try saying that to their faces.」Anastasia crosses her arms, glancing over to the rest of the group.「I'm certain Ms. Kanna would be the least happy with whatever you're trying to do, considering how she said I was an『excellent talent』that『we could invest in for the future』, right?」 {{char}}: Ms. Kanna nodded her head, confirming the girl's statement, while the lead of the group began to grow even more frustrated. At this point, he began to realize just how badly he was outnumbered.

"R-right...but... I'm still the lead of this group, and I make the-"

Ms. Kanna cut him off, being blunt.

"Lead or no lead, the decision for the girl to stay has been made. We don't have time to dillydally, so stop wasting time and let's move on to more important matters." {{user}}: As Kanna- and by extension, the rest of the group who decided on keeping Anastasia around- clashes with the lead, Anastasia- alongside Mio and the other college students who helped with the project- walks over to the still frozen contraption, examining it. {{char}}: As everyone else began arguing amongst themselves, Mio, the other college students, including the girl, and Anastasia began walking over to the contraption.

Despite the contraption being frozen and not exactly looking like it could function, it was still pretty impressive. Mio and the other college students looked at the contraption with pride, obviously, they had a part in creating the contraption.

"Pretty good, isn't it?" {{user}}: 「Yes, until it nearly exploded, and I had to freeze it.」She replies, crouching down to look at the machine more closer. {{char}}: Mio and the other college students chuckled nervously at the girl's blunt comment, but nodded. It was true, the contraption had malfunctioned and nearly exploded if it wasn't for her intervention, which was, to be fair, quite impressive.

After laughing for a moment, Mio regained her bearings and tried to focus on the contraption.

"Yes...it did nearly explode, but the fact that it was able to do what we wanted it to do before it did explode is still pretty remarkable." {{user}}: 「I mean, it is a portal thingy, so I think it's very impressive.」The girl says.「Just need to wait for the ice to melt, which should take a while . . . 」 {{char}}: Mio and the other college students nodded in agreement, the contraption, although nearly exploding and not exactly working right now, still was an impressive accomplishment. However, as the girl mentioned, it still would not work right now, and wouldn't for a while...

Mio also spoke up again, trying to come up with some kind of plan.

"Right... The contraption, although damaged and frozen, still isn't able to be used right now... So what do we do for now? Should we wait for it to completely thaw out or...?" {{user}}: 「If we damage the ice, there's a chance that the device will also get damaged as well, I'm speaking from personal experience with this. We should either wait for it to thaw, or melt the ice with something if we don't want to wait.」Anastasia gets up, speaking like a leader, at least more than the actual lead of the group. {{char}}: Mio and the other college students all nodded at the girl's words, she seemed to know what she was talking about with her personal experience and knowledge. However, as she pointed out, there was the issue of simply waiting, or melting the ice.

"Right... We could either wait for it to thaw naturally, or speed up the thawing process... However, that begs the question, what would we melt the ice with? We don't exactly have a portable heater..." {{user}}: 「Hmm . . . 」She glances over at the rest of the group, approaching them.「Sorry for bothering you all, but do any of you have anything that we could use to melt ice?」 {{char}}: As the girl approached the main group, all the members in the group paused their argument for a moment, looking up at the girl. All of them looked at her in silence for a moment, seemingly trying to come up with some kind of answer.

The lead of the group spoke up first.

"Huh?... Why do you need something that can melt ice?" {{user}}: 「To get rid of the ice on the device I froze.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group seemed dumbfounded by the girl's response for a brief moment, before speaking again.

"What the- why do we need to get rid of the ice on the device? Isn't it good that you froze the device? I mean- you said you froze it because it was malfunctioning, right? Isn't it good that it's frozen and not malfunctioning right now?" {{user}}: 「Well, don't you want to fix the device so it won't malfunction again? Also, it's for this project you all talk about, I'm pretty certain you'd like it if it were not in ice anytime soon.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group facepalmed again, but this time it was out of sheer embarrassment. He really underestimated how smart this girl was, and it was obvious. The girl had a counterpoint to everything he said, which was starting to get to him. He was starting to get more and more irritated by the girl in general.

He took a moment to sigh and then responded.

"I- right... But still, couldn't you just, thaw the ice? Why do we need a heating source?" {{user}}: 「Nope. I may have ice magic, but I can't thaw ice.」Anastasia replies.「That's just how it is, sorry.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group facepalmed yet again. Of course, just as he thought he found a counterpoint, the girl had to counter it somehow. The girl seemed to have a counter to everything, which once again, was starting to get on his nerves.

He sighed out of frustration and spoke out again.

"R- right... But still, why do we need a heating source to melt the ice if you froze it? Wouldn't it melt on its own?" {{user}}: 「Considering the amount of ice encasing the contraption, I'd estimate at the minimum eight hours, maybe twelve at max.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group facepalmed yet again, yet he also groaned out of frustration. The girl literally had *everything* in check, it was starting to drive him insane. How in the hell was he supposed to win a verbal argument against this girl?

He tried to come up with another argument, but it didn't seem like there was much he could say at this point.

"Eight hours? Twelve? Do you realize how much time we're losing here-" {{user}}: 「Which is why I'm asking us if we have anything that could help speed up that melting process.」Anastasia cuts in.「If I'm allowed to stay here, I might as well help, which is why I'm trying to find a way to melt the ice.」 {{char}}: The lead of the group was once again dumbfounded by the girl. Not out of surprise anymore, but out of sheer defeat. The girl was literally countering everything he said, and this time, she had logic on her side.

Ms. Kanna spoke up for once, looking at the lead with a stern glare.

"Stop the argument already, the girl's right. We'll be losing time just waiting for the ice to melt on its own. Let's look for something to melt the ice with." {{user}}: 「How about me, Mio, and some of the college students here look in any supply rooms?」She suggests.「And maybe, the rest of you look in other places?」 {{char}}: Ms. Kanna nodded, the suggestion made sense. It was quicker and more efficient to split up and search for supplies or anything that could help, rather than look as a group.

She then spoke up again.

"That's a good idea, you, Mio, and some of the college students here can search in the supply rooms. The rest of us will look in other areas and rooms. Does anyone have any objections?"

Everyone in the room stayed quiet, not having any objections to the plan. {{user}}: 「Alright, let's all meet back here in thirty minutes, sounds good?」Anastasia asks, glancing around the room. {{char}}: Ms. Kanna nodded again, a plan had now been established.

"Yes, sounds good. Thirty minutes from now, we'll meet back here again. You, Mio, and some of the college students will look in the supply rooms while the rest of us will look in other areas. Got it?"

The rest of the room nodded again, agreeing to the plan. With the plan finally set into motion, everyone began to move to their respected places. {{user}}: Anastasia grabs Mio's hand, taking her and the other college students with her.「So, anyone knows where any supply rooms are?」 {{char}}: As Anastasia began to take Mio and the other college students with her, one of the college students spoke up once she mentioned the supply rooms.

"The supply rooms are down that hallway."

The college student pointed to a hallway a bit farther down in the building that they were currently in.

"There are two supply rooms down that hallway, you can look in either one, or you could split up and look in both." {{user}}: 「Me, Mio, and two other classmates are going to go to the left supply room, and the other four of you go to the right supply room, does that idea sound good?」

The girl motions to the left and right supply rooms down the hallway. {{char}}: The other college students nodded, the plan made sense. It was more efficient to split up and look for supplies in both rooms than have everyone look in one room.

One of the college students spoke up again.

"Yeah, that sounds good. So you, Mio, and two other classmates are going to search in the left supply room, and the rest of us are going to look in the right supply room. Got it!" {{user}}: 「Okay, let's go!」

Anastasia, still holding Mio's hand, rushes over to the left supply room, with two other students following the two. {{char}}: As Ana and Mio rushed to the left supply room, the other two college students followed behind them, all four of them rushing into the left supply room.

The supply room looked about how you'd expect it to. A medium sized room, lined with metal drawers and cabinets against the wall. There was a bit of a mess, probably from students searching for supplies earlier. {{user}}: 「Okay, here we are . . . 」

She lets go of Mio's hand, looking around.

「So, any plans for how to quickly search this room? Any ideas?」 {{char}}: As Ana dropped Mio's hand and began looking around the room, Mio looked around for a moment, thinking. A supply room looked simple enough, just metal drawers and cabinets filled with stuff, but with the mess and how many drawers there were, searching through them all would take longer than thirty minutes.

After thinking about it for a moment, Mio spoke up.

"Not really... There's a lot of stuff here, searching through all of it is gonna take a while, and we only have thirty minutes to search..." {{user}}: 「Uuuhhhhh . . . Maybe . . . Since there's four of us, we each search a section of this room . . ? Would that still take longer than thirty minutes?」 {{char}}: As Ana asked her question, Mio thought about it. Splitting up and searching different parts of the room was a good idea, but with how much stuff there was to search through, thirty minutes didn't seem like enough.

Mio looked around the room for a moment, thinking, before responding.

"Uhm...I mean, splitting up the sections helps, but thirty minutes doesn't seem like it'll be enough time to look through all of the drawers and cabinets for something like heating... I'm not sure.. what do you think?" {{user}}: 「I honestly have no idea . . . Flip!」

『Oh. My. God. Why did I have to say we meet up in *thirty* minutes? I mean, it is a decent time to try and find something, but . . . Seriously! Crud, crud, crud!』, Anastasia puts a hand to her forehead, her mind racing as she tries to figure out a plan.

「O- Okay, just . . . Search around!」

She finally blurts out, quickly rushing over to a corner of the room as she starts to dig through cabinets and drawers. {{char}}: Mio couldn't help but be a little bit amused at how flustered Ana got when she remembered the thirty minute mark, but it was also quite understandable. After all, thirty minutes wasn't that long, especially when you have to look through a whole room full of junk.

After laughing a little bit, Mio spoke up again.

"Okay okay, cool it. I'm going to look around this area over here!"

Mio then hurried over to a different part of the room, starting to look around and dig through drawers and cabinets.